Stargazing

Zach's smile spreads widely. "I think Uncle Harry would love some extra company."

Being asked more about himself, he chuckles and shrugs. "I like... going for walks... playing basketball... camping... um..." He tries to think of anything interesting, but he thought his life was a rather boring one. "I like to read - my apartment is half-full of books... um... you know I like animals, obviously... I dunno, I guess that's about it." He grins. "I never think of myself as shallow until I start talking about me."


Jeff was glad that at least Ashlee wouldn't mind him there for supper. He really wished he knew why she seemed rather offish around him, but he just couldn't figure it out. Oh, well. Maybe she'd warm up if he kept trying as long as he didn't push it.

He smiles at Stacy as she joins them. "My day wasn't too bad. Looked like Ashlee here had a pretty busy day herself. I hear she got the boss' horse looking pretty good."

Throughout the meal, Jeff tries to keep some light conversation going and does his best to include Ashlee. At one point he spies Eric over in the corner watching them with a peculiar expression, but he lets it go, figuring it was nothing....


...The next two weeks seemed to fly by. Days were filled with work at the ranch and evenings with late night cards games or quiet time in front of the television. Jeff took Stacy and Ashlee out a couple more times, though was a little more aware of what Ashlee might like. She seemed to have an okay time, but most of her conversation revolved around horses or working with Eric. She still wouldn't take him up on his horseback riding lessons offer though, but he let it lie. At least he did have fun with Stacy and she seemed to enjoy herself too. It was nice to see her smile - to see her have fun. Jeff knew she was a strong woman and had handled a lot... but he also knew it hadn't been an easy life, so giving her some fun... that in itself made him feel good.

The rest of the ranch functioned pretty much as normal. Eric did finally give in to Clint to begin working on his truck, though he didn't talk about it much. He was still pretty undecided about whether or not to go back on the road or not. He was at least finding more things to keep busy at the ranch, and his sidekick was becoming more and more his shadow. Not a day went by that Ashlee didn't come looking for him in the barn. And while Eric might not admit it... she was the bright spot in his days. He'd seen Jeff spending more time with Stacy and wondered if there was anything more going on there, but he never asked. He stayed quietly out of the way. Maybe he hadn't talked to Stacy much either, but... maybe she preferred it that way anyway.

...It was another late night. Things were so quiet and still. It was late enough that even the card games were over and the dining hall was dark. Everyone was in bed. ...Almost everyone.

Eric sat on the porch of his bunkhouse, still dressed and pulling his jacket a little tighter. He'd tried for two hours to get to sleep but it just hadn't worked. So he'd wound up outside just sitting and staring up at the stars.


New Text Message
To: Dan
From: Unknown 555-3498

Give me a reason to live...

Dylan

Best try

Now that it was Zach's turn to talk Beth falls quiet and just listens as she works on her own sub. For some reason it tasted extra good today. It could of been the fact she hadn't had one in a long time or maybe just having good company made it better!

Giving a nod as a sud don wave of sadness came over her. She thought it was horrible that not even Harry's wife came to see him. It's not his fault he was here and when they got married they made a pack. To be together through thick and thin not to bail out when something went wrong. Beth just didn't understand why someone would do that.

"It's kind of sad in a way. I bet he miss her very much. I'm just happy he has you around to come and see him Zach. I think every now and again I am gonna stop by and see him as well."

Placing her sub down again and wrapping it up to bring the rest of it home Beth folds her hands across the table and leans in a little bit. She really had enjoyed the meal, and talking with Zach. It was nice finding out more about him and sharing her own stuff as well.

"So what other kind of stuff do you like to do?"

Searching Jeff's face Ashlee could see a little bit of disappointment in his eyes. She'd dont her best not to be to hurtful but she guessed in this situation it was probable hard no matter how you looked at it or went about it.

"I will definitely keep in mind your offer. Thanks Jeff."

Looking up and seeing her mom walk in Ashlee waves her over. She might get strange vibes from Jeff but he'd done nothing but be nice so that was what she could do in return at least for now. Her mom also seemed to enjoy Jeff's company so why not try to deal with it.

"No, thats alright you can."

Ashlee smile and gives a nod to her mom as she walks over.

"Hey Mom, I got us a table and if its alright with you Jeff wants to join us."

Sitting down at the table and smile Stacy new Ashlee was doing her best to be friendly and she was thankful for that. It was nice to see that at least she was giving it her best even if she didn't want too.

"Sure that sounds great to me. How was your guys day?"

Would you mind?

Zach shakes his head quickly. "Naw, I wasn't uncomfortable. I just wondered was all." In truth, there was still something there that didn't seem to fit quite right, but he wouldn't pry any more. Beth had emphasized that she and Justin were friends - not more than friends - so Zach should be safe to hang out with her if he wanted. He had no intentions beyond that anyway, at least not now. All he wanted was to make a new friend, and that seemed to be coming along splendidly.

After giving her a smile of assurance that he was satisfied with the conversation, he works on his sub again, still having just a bit of trouble eating it without making a huge mess. It's not until hes crumpling up his wrapper that the chit chat turns a bit more solemn again.

Leaning his arms on the table, he sighs just a little. "Thanks... for sharing your story with me, Beth. I'm glad to know more about you and... I respect you even more, knowing what you've been through." He grins. "Me - I guess I've had a pretty normal life. Nothing to complain about really. Nothing spectacular either." He shrugs and sips his pop, finding it was almost empty.

"Grew up in Heartsville - northern suburb there of Victoria. Went to college a couple years, nearby in Franklin, so I didn't get out much beyond that area. Not until I moved down here for my job."

Leaning back in his seat, he tries to think of anything that might be of interest to Beth... there didn't seem to be much. "My folks still live in Heartsville... I've got a younger sister, Andrea. She's in Guthrie Square now and..." He shrugs again then laughs. "I guess that's about it. I've got boring down to a science."

Thinking back to Brookshire, he remembers his uncle. "And... uncle Harry... he's actually my mom's uncle. His wife is Karen - that's who he mentioned. She... has never gone to see him since admitting him to the facility. So that's... why he said her name. If he's in good shape like he was today, he usually asks about her."


Looking up quickly, JT catches Amanda's eye. She knew, didn't she? Without him even saying anything. Glancing back down, he thinks a moment before reaching up to take her hand and pulling her down to sit next to him. "Yeah... yeah, I know. Just gonna be different is all. I just don't want her to think I'm unhappy with it or anything."

Holding Amanda's hand, he runs his fingers along hers, lost in a million thoughts of years gone by. He finally forces a smile and leans over to give her cheek a kiss. "Look at me. I should be having a ball celebrating the fact that the vampire finally found his courage."


Jeff really couldn't help his surprise and he knew it must have shown on his face. He wasn't upset in the least - just shocked because he knew how badly Ashlee must want to ride.

"Oh... okay. That's fine." He hoped that Eric actually would ask her. He'd never been one to like giving riding lessons, and if he started driving truck again he wouldn't even be around much anyway. Had Eric hinted at lessons already, or was Ashlee just hoping on her own? Either way, in Jeff's mind, it wasn't a very good bet that his brother would follow through.

He holds his smile though. "Well, if he doesn't, my offer still stands, okay?"

Glancing up as the door opens, he spots Stacy coming in. Eying Ashlee again, his expression is one of question. "Would you mind if I sat with you and your mom for supper?"

Thanks but no thanks

Taking another bit of her own sub Beth is just quiet for a few moments. Zach had only been the second person she ever told her story too and it wasn't any easier this time around either. So collecting her thoughts, and her emotions she just lets Zach talk for now.

Finally feeling like she had pulled herself together Beth was happy the conversation kinda shifted back to Justin. That was something she could definitely deal with talking about. Pondering his actions again she tried to play the whole thing in her mind once more. There was a bit of jealousy there.

"Well, he's been my only friend for quite a while maybe he was jealous because he thinks your going to take his place as my friend. Witch is just silly."

Taking a quick sip of her water Beth just thinks some more. It was strange trying to figure out someones motives. Him being scared that Zach would take all her time was the only think she could come up with. Beth gives a little shrug there was nothing else she could say about it because she didn't know.

"I dont know, I dont know....all I can say is I am sorry if Justin made you feel uncomfortable. I am sure that wasn't the intention."

Giving a nod to Jt's comment she agreed. Bree and Gunner were perfect together. Two of a kind that no one could try and copy. God sure new what he was doing when he designed them both. It was just...perfect.

Seeing JT out of the corner of her eye Amanda suddenly felt a little bit of sadness for him. Just form that one look weather he noticed it or not she could see the though of Bree being gone was bothering him. Not that he would want to change it but only that she was moving on and he was feeling the empty nest.

Moving a little closer to JT Amanda bumps his shoulder a little before putting an arm over his shoulder. She'd never had kids, or anyone close enough to be a child so she didn't know how it felt but she would chide, or make fun of him for it either.

"Don't worry, its gonna be ok."

As dinner drew near Ashlee new for now the fun was over. Saying goodbye to Eric for now Ashlee heads to her bunk to get ready. Changing her clothing, showering and were fresh clean clothing she gives a stretch before heading to the dinning hall. Her stomach giving a growl...

...Sitting at one of the far tables and just waiting for her mom to get there before starting her meal Ashlee could feel her stomach start to growl. The activity of the day had worked up a raging hunger.

Looking up and seeing Jeff come over Ashlee gives a smile. She had nothing against Jeff so she would try her best to be nice to him. He had after all been nice to her and didn't do anything wrong.

"The day was pretty busy but it was lots of fun. I really enjoyed it."

Falling quiet again for a moment Ashlee was a bit surprised at his offer. She had wanted to ride, it was something she wanted to do more than anything but she wanted lessons from one person and that was Eric. She'd seen him work with the horses, and she new he was good, she trusted him as well. There was nothing against Jeff it was just...she had her heart set on him training her.

"Thanks for the offer Jeff thats really nice of you but...no thank you. Eric's gonna teach me how to ride as soon as he asks me that is."

Ashlee gives a smile to Jeff hoping he wasn't to upset she had declined. She didn't want to hurt him or anything it was just something she wanted to stand by.

Green

Bree's scream and leap into the water makes Gunner jump and for a couple seconds, he's not all that sure if she had really meant yes or not. But that unsureness doesn't last long. Pulled into a hug, his arms automatically wrap around her in a strong embrace. Returning her kiss, his hug tightens. Really? Was this really happening? Her next softer words confirm it.

Smiling from ear to ear, Gunner can't even find any words to say. It felt as though he were permanently tongue-tied. "Good," he whispers back. "Because I don't know if I'd ever be able to ask you again without risking life and limb like I have this week." Kissing her again, he cradles her face in his hands before pulling away. "I love you so much."

He then glances down then up, then down then back and forth. They were standing in the pond, soaked from head to toe - a mess to say the least. He had just proposed to her... in a pond.

The humor starts as a quiet chuckle, but quickly grows to become outright laughter and Gunner grabs Bree in a hug again. Still laughing, he shakes his head. "Well... I wanted it to be memorable."


Watching the two together, JT smiles. "Yeah, I guess she did. Not that I expected anything different." Shaking his head, he throws Amanda a glance, accompanied with a grin. "Two of a kind, they are."

Slowly returning to his fishing pole, he sits in the grass again and fiddles with a spare hook. Bree wasn't his daughter, but she might as well have been, and he felt a tremendous amount of love, pride and happiness. But there was also something else... something that made his shoulders drop just a little. Something that forced a quiet sigh to the surface that he didn't think anyone else would hear. Though his mind is suddenly very far away, he tries to act like he's simply concentrating on his fishing, almost forgetting that Amanda is right close.


Zach's eating slows down to small nibbles as he quietly listens to Beth. Something stirred deep down inside - an outrage for such an event in her young past. A pity for her parents who didn't protect her and her sister. A sorrow for Sarah and what had destroyed her. A compassion for Beth and what she'd dealt with. A respect for her being able to pull through as well as she had.

He began to understand a little more about Justin, though there were still unanswered questions. If Justin was such a man to care for Beth that much and worry about her welfare, why would he have simply given a cold shoulder and walked away? Why wouldn't he have stayed to find out more about Zach himself? Zach had thought Justin looked like an overprotective big brother... but after finding out about all this... it just made him wonder all the more.

By now, his sub was lying in the wrapper, his elbows on the table with his hands folded. He studies Beth for the longest time, not really knowing yet what to say. Finally, he nods though. "You're obviously a very strong woman," he concludes. "I never would have guessed... and I'm so sorry you had to go through all that. Nobody ever should."

Glancing down to collect his thoughts, he eventually looks back up to her eyes again. "I'm glad you had someone like Justin to help you. He seems to be a very kind man." He cocks his head a little. He didn't want to pry. He didn't know Justin. He barely knew Beth. He was jumping to all sorts of conclusions and assumptions and it was none of his business whatsoever. But... he was still curious - for more than one reason. "I'm surprised he didn't stay and give me the third degree," he teases lightly.

Picking his sub up he takes a small bite then wipes some sauce off his mouth with a napkin. "I thought for a few seconds there he had a bit of green in his eyes." It was a lame hint, but it was all he could think of. If all Justin was, was a good friend and protector, he wouldn't have acted like he had earlier. At least not in Zach's mind. There had to be more to it. And he wanted to know so he could avoid stepping on anyone's toes. That was the last thing he wanted to do.


Seeing Ashlee laugh is contagious and as she goes to the barn, Eric and Mick finally crack up too. Mick shakes his head. "She's something else, isn't she?"

Eric nods. "She sure is. She's been having a ball this afternoon."

"Looks like you have too."

Eric takes a moment to look down at himself and then to the horse. His expression grows a little more sober. "Yeah... yeah, I have."

"Well... I gotta get some work done." Mick gives his horse a final pat. "Thanks for cleaning him up - I don't mind the braids a bit. It'll keep him from getting knots again."

Eric grins. "Good." Waiting for Ashlee to return he starts to pick things up. Seeing her feed the apple to Remington brings a new grin to his face. She had such an innocent excitement for all of this... it was refreshing to see that.

It takes a while to clean everything up and get it all back where it belongs, and by the time they do, suppertime is nearing. "Well, kiddo, I think you and I best get ourselves cleaned up before we eat." Eric looks between them, noting how dirty both were, and he chuckles. "Your mom would probably prefer that." He reaches out and ruffles her hair. "Thanks for your help today. I'll see ya at supper." Parting for now, Eric heads to his bunkhouse to get cleaned up...

...People began gathering in the dining hall, anxious for their evening meal. Eric wasn't to be found yet, but Jeff was, and when he spots Ashlee at one of the far tables, he makes his way over to her.

"Hey, there you are." Jeff smiles at her as he approaches. "Looks like you've been pretty busy around here today." Sitting down across from her, he folds his hands.

Still smiling, he cocks his head. "Had a quick question.... Tomorrow I need to exercise a couple horses and... I was wondering if maybe you'd like to come along." His tantalizing hint lingers for a moment. "How about getting in the saddle? I bet we could find you a pair of boots around here, and there's a nice little mare that would love the attention." He winks at her. "You've done a lot of work in the barn - I think you've more than earned some riding lessons."

Story

Walking around the pond without anything happening was nice and Bree was happy for that. Just the moment together was pleasent and getting this before they had to go back home she was thankful for. Work would start up again, days would be busy, nights would be filled with tv, snuggling and mostly someone falling sleep. Not that she minded it helped her enjoy the times like this.

"It's moments like this that make me love you even more."

Coming to the rocks and stepping out on them with Gunner Bree can only smile listing to Gunner and trying peace together everything he was saying. Seeing him start to slip though Bree's eyes go wide and there was no saving him. It all happened way to fast for her to even try.

"Do you want...."

Bree's words were cut off by JT's yelling. Hearing him yell about saying yes to Gunner her eyes get large. Had she heard her Uncle right? Looking to Gunner again and his question that follows confermes what she had heard was right.

Just standing there for a long moment finally a large smile spreads across her face as she takes aim and jumps into the water right next to Gunner with a scream.

"YES!!!!!!!"

Now soaked herself Bree moves closer to Gunner and throws her arms around his neck pulling him into a big hug and burying her head into his neck before finally pulling away. Pressing her lips to his for a long moment she breaks away in a little more quiet voice she whispers.

"Yes, I will."

Seeing Bree's reaction Amanda can't help but laugh her eyes twinkling. After everything she had seen Gunner and Bree go through she was so happy that they had found there happyness. It was nice to know they would be both taking care of.

"I guess she said yes?!"

As Mick stops and looks at the horse Ashlee does her best not to laugh. She was proud of her work on the horse even if she found it silly too. But as Eric keeps egging Mick on Ashlee just can't hold it in anymore and she lets out a laugh as she trys to speak.

"Well, I...I think he looks good in pink."

Laughing to hard Ashlee can't say anything else. This hole thing just seemed to hit her funny bone just right. Hearing about the apples Ashlee walks away trying to compose herself and gather the treats.

Not gone for long she comes back out again with an apple. Her face red but contained at the moment. Holding out the apple for Remington she waits for him to take it knowing his soft lips would probable tickle her fingers again.

Getting to the sub shop and ordering her roast beef with extra mayo, lettuces, avocado, tomatoes and onions she licks her lips. She hadn't had a sub in a long while and this one looked extra good.

About to take a bit seeing Zach out of the corner of her eye Beth can't help but laugh as she continues to watch him try to fit the sub into his mouth. It was rather humorous wondering herself how on earth he was going to eat that.

"Obviously your sister was wrong because your still having a problem with that."

Giving a laugh Beth finally takes a bit of her own sub having a little easier of a time with it. Hearing Zach's question she whips her mouth off giving her a little extra time to think. He had noticed Justin acting strangely as well. Beth cringes a little bit on the inside.

"Honestly, this is the first time I've ever introduced him to anyone but my sister. Before I met you he was the only friend I had. I do know today he was acting strangely but I don't know why. He's been with me through a lot over the last months I guess maybe he's just trying to look out for me. Dosn't want anything bad to happen and he knows how leary of people I am."

Taking a sip of her water and picking up some lettuces from her plate to eat. Letting out a small sigh she figured maybe she should tell Zach about her past now. It might help him understand a few things.

"See when I was younger My mom but faith in someone other than my father. She lost almost all the money we had. When my dad found out he went out and got super drunk and went crazy. He came home drunk and with a loaded gun. I wasn't home at the time but Sarah was. My mom new how angry dad was and she hide Sarah under the bed. Unfortunately though all it did was saved her life but she saw my dad shoot my mom, and than shoot himself. Sarah hasn't spoken a word since than and I've taking care of her, gone to see her and been with her since that day....and thats where Justin comes in."

Beth goes into more detail about how she use to work, see Sara come home and lock herself into her apartment. Never talking to anyone, never going any place, never facing the outside world more than she had too. Than she talked about how Justin became her friend and showed her how to live again. He really had helped her open up and not be quite as scared to live.

"...So Justin has been a really good friend since than. He's helped me a lot and he knows I still struggle with a few things."

Falling silent again Beth just lets Zach take everything in. Searching his face she wondered what he might be thinking. She'd understand if it was all to much for him to take in and handle. It was understandable. There were still days she wondered how she handled it herself.

Subs

Zach laughs and nods. "You got it. How about that little sub place? Um..." He squints as he walks out into the hall, thinking. "Crazy Subs? Yeah - where they got a ton of different stuff you can put on your sub. I've only been there once, and when I was, it wasn't very busy but I liked the food."

Leading the way back out into the sunshine, Zach doesn't make his pace too fast, even if he was hungry. Heading for the lot, he points to his little silver car. "That's me. You can follow if you want. But if we get lost, I take no credit." He grins as he fishes in his pocket for his keys.

About fifteen minutes later, they made it to the sub shop without getting lost, and they found only a few customers so it was nice and quiet. Getting in line, Zach lets Beth go first as he takes his time surveying all the choices. He finally decides on the Italian sub with the addition of, "...Tomatoes, jalapenos...olives..." Zach thinks. "Extra cheese...onions, mushrooms and...green peppers. Oh, and hot mustard." Seeing the awful creation built, he gives Beth a silly grin and shrug. "Might as well take advantage of the selections, right?"

Soon, they were seated at a booth near the window, each quickly and silently praying over their food. Zach picks up his sub, which was spilling out all ends, and he eyes it for a moment from different angles. Finally attempting a bite, he has to open up his mouth as wide as he can, and even then it almost isn't wide enough. He tries not to laugh until he's chewed and swallowed. "My sister always did say I had a big mouth."

He takes a sip of his soda pop, pondering the question he wanted to ask. Was it an appropriate time? Only one way to find out. "So... your friend... Justin? Kind of the protective type, huh?"


Though concentrating on Remington's tail, Eric keeps one eye on Ashlee, making sure she was having fun, and making sure the horse was still behaving himself too. As he sees all the little braids and bows, he can't help grinning. His own work was going fast, so he slows down on purpose, wanting to give Ashlee all the time she wanted. To do so, he braids Remington's tail with slow precision, his hands moving with ease, creating a tight design starting all the way at the top and down until the end of the bone where he ties it off with a rubber band, letting the rest of it free to blow in the wind.

Hearing Ashlee's question, he steps back and looks at her finished product. Humor dances in his eyes but he doesn't laugh. "I ain't never seen him look prettier."

Just as they're both surveying their handiwork, Mick walks by. Stopping short, he blinks. "What in tarnation..." He steps closer, his eyebrows arched, and he eyes Eric and Ashlee then his horse again before blinking.

Eric coughs on a stifled laugh.

Remington turns to look at his master, heaving a long sigh. Mick swallows his own urge to laugh. "Well now... I see somebody's been having a lot of fun." He steps forward for a closer look, glancing down at Ashlee with a grin. "I never thought I'd see him in pink but..."

"I think he likes it," Eric finishes. "Only a confident man would wear pink." He elbows Ashlee teasingly. "Right?"

Mick's chuckle finally escapes and he shakes his head, giving his horse a hearty pat on the back. "He's clean, I will say that." His gaze returns to Ashlee. "If you really want to get on this brute's good side, there's a couple apples in the feed room."


Gunner takes advantage of Bree looking over her shoulder to give her a light kiss. "Good. Come on." Grabbing her hand, he pulls her to his side with enthusiasm before setting out.

This time, their walk did seem a peaceful one. No attacks. No cloudbursts. Talking and laughing, it seemed almost the best day yet. It always happened that way though... the best times were always had when they were coming to a close and reality would have to set back in again. No one wanted to go home yet. They were all savoring their last couple days.


Lounged back in the grass, JT keeps a lazy eye on his fishing pole, almost nodding off every now and again, in between conversation with Amanda. Yawning, he tips his baseball cap forward to shield his eyes from the sun, although the warmth was welcomed. "Ya know... I've always wanted to have like a cabin or something for regular vacations. Maybe I should actually look into that one of these days," he muses.

Catching movement nearby, he glances just a short distance away where Gunner and Bree were walking. It looked like they'd made it all the way around the pond without incident. Finally.


The walk had grown fairly quiet as Gunner had fallen into what seemed a rather thoughtful mood. Close to returning to their starting point, he pauses near the water and looks out across the sparkling ripples. "It's so pretty here... Makes me wish I had more time I could take off work. This has been a lot of fun." He smiles and gives Bree's hand a squeeze before letting go.

Wandering onto some rocks that jutted out into the water, he looks down, watching some tadpoles. Turning around again, he cocks his head at Bree. A little color comes to his face. "You know, time off and getting your uncle and Amanda out here weren't the only reasons I wanted to come." He clears his throat and shifts his weight awkwardly. "I mean... the time with you... away from everything... it's just sorta... well, it's helped me know I'd made the right decision to... well..."

He clears his throat again and tucks his hands in his jeans pockets. "You're so special to me. And even when we have to go back to reality, I don't want what we got to end, ya know? So I... well, would... I mean..."

Shifting again, it's Gunner's downfall that he'd turned his back on the water. Without even thinking, he stepped too far to the side. One foot hits a mossy rock and shoots out from under him. The other is at too much of an angle to do any good at all, nor do his suddenly flailing arms assist in his attempt to regain his balance.

Letting out a wail does no good either, and before anyone could blink, the huge splash announces the unscheduled swim.


JT sits bold upright, just in time to see Bree then Gunner... who was now standing waste-deep in the water. His eyes widen.


Sputtering and spitting, Gunner slaps the water with his fist. "Of all the.... Come on!" He glares up at Bree, though it's not meant for her - it was pure frustration and the feeling of stupidity. "Really?! I mean.... really?! Seriously now! Can I not have one moment without this?!" Still too mad, frustrated and embarrassed, he doesn't move to get out of the pond yet.


"Oh for crying out loud." JT mumbles as he gets to his feet. Setting his hands on his hips he yells over to them. "Gunner! For Pete's sake, just ask her!"

Gunner growls and slaps away a floating sprig of seaweed. "It was supposed to be perfect," he mutters.

JT didn't hear him, but he shakes his head. "Bree! Tell that poor boy you'll marry him before he kills himself out here!"

Gunner was mortified. "Jack Timble!!!" But there was nothing he could do now. His gaze returns to Bree as water drips down his face. Never before was there such a pitiful sight. He swallows hard. "W...would... would you?"

Safe

Using the baby oil and comb like Eric showed her Ashlee starts on his main. She was quiet and worked quickly but made sure to get every knot out. Once in a while just leaning in closer and sticking her toung out on the side a little to considerate a little harder on the tough spots. Once might think she was almost studing the horse but wanting to do good made her work even harder and considerate even more.

Finally being able to run the brush through the main without catching a nag Ashlee gives the horses neck a pat before hopping off the stool and going to the little box on the ground. Sitting down she places it in her lap and opens it up. Seeing all the rubber bands, bows, and clips in there it almost felt like chirstmas. It was so fun though to just look and decide what she wanted to use. Taking out four ribbons and some rubber bands she stuff them into her pocket before closing the box and standing up again.

This time starting in on doing little breads she puts the rubber bands on the bottoms to ensure they stay. Not making all the breads the same length though to add a little contrast to it. It almost takes as long to do this as it did combing everything. Several breads were taken in and out ensuring they were almost perfect to how she wanted them. Finished again she jumps off the stool and steps back giving a nod.

"Eric, I do have to say he looks a little better now. What do you think?"

"It was really great to meet you Uncle Harry. Maybe when I come to see my sister again I will stop and see you too."

Smiling again and seeing Zach was ready to go Beth lays a soft hand on Harry's shoulder before taking a few steps away. Seeing Zach's smile fade though at the mention of Karen Beth couldn't help but wonder who that was. For now though she would stay silent about it and not pry for answers. Maybe over coffee that could be another conversation.

Turning and starting to walk again Beth stops hearing Zach's stomach. Giving a laugh of her own she reaches out and gives his tummy a gentile pat letting it know it would be ok they were on the way to feed it now.

"Since you got the monster I will follow you to where every you'd like to eat as long as its not to crowded this time of day."

Beth was doing better with things but she wasn't to sure about crowds yet. She wanted to ease into things slowly still and the last thing she wanted was to freak out in front of Zach and drive him away already.

"I pretty much like everything so there is no worry there."

Feeling Gunner drap his arms over her shoulder Bree's own hands automatically go to his arms holding them close. She always loved how big and close they held her. They made her feel protected and thats what she liked the most.

"I don't know walks seem kind of dangerous with you..."

Bree pauses for a moment looking over her shoulder. Finally a small grin moves on her lips and a twinkle forms in her eye. No matter how many bad things happened it would never stop her from spending time with Gunner.

"Oh alright, lets leave these two alone and take a walk. It looks pretty safe right now."

Doomed

"Okay..." Eric presents a couple large combs. "Come on."

Returning to Remington, he gives the horse a whack on the neck to stop chewing on the hitching pole. "Cut it out. You're not that bored."

Remington turns and looks at him with annoyance but obeys, standing still.

Eric grabs a bucket and turns it upside down, then has Ashlee step up on it so she's higher near the tall horse's neck. "Alrighty... see, since the mane is so course, it tangles pretty easy and so it can be hard to get it straightened out." He points to the baby oil. "That's why we have that."

Taking a moment, he shows Ashlee how to apply a little bit of oil near the neck and work it through with her fingers, untangling the mane until using the comb last. Any excess hair is tossed on the ground to be blown away in the breeze.

"So... once you've got his whole mane so you can just run a comb through it, you can braid it if you like." He shrugs. "I can teach you sometime some different ways to do it, but for today just do whatever you want. You can use those little rubber bands for that. I guess there might be more than rubber bands in there, but you get the idea." He pats Remington's back. "Now you behave." Moving to the hindquarters he nods at Ashlee. "While you do that, I'm gonna work on his tail the same way." He stands to the side, trusting the horse, but having the good habit of not standing in the direct firing line of Remington's hind hooves.


Seeing Beth blush only serves to widen Zach's grin. He pats his uncle's knee. "Well, I think we're going to go out to lunch. I'll come by and see you again soon, okay?"

Harry nods slowly. "Karen."

Zach's smile fades a little and he nods. "I'll tell her hi for you."

Harry nods again then resumes his stare out the window.

Standing up, Zach just watches his uncle for a moment, then sighs, forcing himself to turn from the scene. His stomach growls and he laughs. "I guess maybe we really should go to lunch before this monster gets loose."


"No, I haven't! I've been stung, attacked by birds, caught in a cloud burst, bombarded by a swarm of mosquitoes, threatened by a bear and almost run down by crazy dirt bikers! It's fate, I tell you!" Gunner throws his arms in the air. "I'm doomed!"

JT stares back at him with a mildly amused expression. "I have to admit you've had pretty bad luck the last couple days."

"Luck? Luck??!! It's a conspiracy!"

That makes JT laugh and he shakes his head. "Well we only got another day left before you'll need another plan, so get busy. I can't keep quiet much longer."

"Hmph." Gunner crosses his arms. "You're enjoying this, aren't you?"

JT bites his lip. "Maybe... a little... yeah, okay. It's been pretty entertaining, but only because I know what you've been trying to do."

Gunner rolls his eyes. "So help me... I wanted it to be perfect, ya know."

"Maybe that's why it keeps getting messed up. Quit trying so hard and just ask her." JT gives his arm a whack. "If you can fight bad guys with machine guns, you can do this."

Gunner's eyebrows rise. "Oh really? It took this whole stunt just to get you and that girl of yours to admit you liked each other."

JT smirks. "I thought we were talking about you."

"Whatever." Turning away from the tent, Gunner spies both women by the pond. "I still want it to be perfect," he mutters before heading that direction.

JT chuckles and follows to see if Amanda wanted to sit with him while he tried to catch supper.

Coming up behind Bree, Gunner drapes his arms over her shoulders and kisses her head. "Wanna take a stroll around the pond? I haven't seen any bears, heard any dirtbikes, crazy birds or insane insects, nor have I seen any clouds threatening to dump water on our heads."

Warmth

Entering the room Beth looks around at everything from what was on the walls to what was on the tables just taking it all in and observing the details. Though the room was like Sarah's it was still different to this indavidual.

Following Zach's lead and coming over to his Uncle Beth squats down and gives a sweet smile to the older man. There was something about him, so much wisdom in his eyes that seemed to just be suppressed. In a way Beth felt a little sad but she wouldn't let it show.

"Hi Uncle Harry its very nice to meet you."

Looking to where Zach's uncle had pointed at the birds Beth gives another smile just looking at them for a long moment and watching the birds come to and fro. What a nice thing for him to be able to watch.

"They sure are pretty huh? It's so nice you have a feeder out there to be able to watch them."

Hearing the comment about being fine and that Zach's following comment Beth can feel her cheeks turning red. A warmth ran through her heart too though. Though she wasn't quite sure why but it felt good. Family, something she had been missing for a long time and maybe just maybe this was a glimpse that made her feel good.

As Eric brings Remington out Ashlee's eyes widen just a little bit. She'd seen Mick ride the horse before and he seem pretty active. He was a big horse But Ashlee did her best to swallow what little bit of fear she had. Sticking out her hand she lets the horse smell it and can't help the laugh the slips out when his whiskers tickle her hand as well.

"He feels softer than the rest."

Once the horse was all clean Ashlee follows Eric to the barn. Being given the direction and shes a nod. A big of excitement grew as she wondered what they were going to do next. Going into the tack room Ashlee gives a big deep breath before continuing to find the box. Than before leaving she does it again than exits.

"I found them Eric. Now what?"

Clean horses

Just walking slowly beside Beth, Zach listens, trying to fit all the pieces together but still not having enough to see a clear picture. Who was Justin, really? What was in Beth's past? Did it have to do with why her sister was here? They were all questions he would not ask.

Glancing to her as they walk, the same gentle smile he'd given Sarah returns for her this time. "I'd love to hear your story. But I know that sometimes things like that are hard, so you're not going to find any pressure coming from me, okay?"

Arriving at a room down the hall they'd been walking, Zach stops and just looks at Beth for a moment. He wanted to ask if there was a reason Justin would have a problem with him but... maybe he should wait until later when they were out at lunch or something. So for now, he pushes that thought to the back of his mind.

"We've arrived," he announces. His eyes twinkle. "Come on in." Opening up the door, he leads the way inside. It was a similar room as Sarah's, though without a feminine touch. A calendar hung on the wall, there were a few family picture and a few trinkets here and there. A man with gray hair sat in a wheelchair near the window.

"Hey, Uncle Harry," Zach greets. "How are we doing today?"

Harry turns slowly and seems to be trying to remember who Zach was, and whether or not he even knew the new visitor.

Zach approaches him quietly and with a smile. Taking a knee in front of him, he makes eye contact with his uncle. "Remember me? Zach?"

The old man's lips curl up slightly in the corners as recognition flashes in his gaze. "Zachary," he mumbles.

Zach grins. "Yep. You're looking mighty fine today."

Harry nods and points out the window to some bird feeders he'd apparently been watching.

"Ahh, I see you've had some other visitors too," Zach muses. "Looks like a couple bluejays?"

"And a cardinal," Harry states flatly.

Zach motions Beth over close. "Harry, this is a new friend of mine. Her name is Beth."

Harry squints up at her. One might think he looked simply like a crazy old man, but if one took the time to really look into his eyes, they might find a mind racing with suppressed intelligence. "You're fine." He nods with approval.

Zach stifles a chuckle. "Yeah, I think she is too," he agrees.


Getting paid back with bubbles, Eric grins and keeps up with bathing the horse, though the soapy nice war continues between him and Ashlee.

Once the mare was cleaned, Eric puts her away and retrieves Remington from his stall. "Maybe we can get in good with the boss if we clean up his horse, eh?" He winks at Ashlee as he ties up the tall gelding outside.

Remington snorts and shakes his head, a bit excited but more curious than anything as to what they were going to do with him.

The process is pretty much the same, but when the big horse is all clean, Eric motions Ashlee to the barn. "In the tack room there's a little box in the far corner - it's got some rubber bands in it. Bring that and the baby oil - it's by the door."

Tention

For a bref moment Beth feels as though there was tension in the room. It was strange to feel this, with two people she had never felt it with before. Even if she had only seen Zach a few other times it had never been there and now it was. The air, it seemed to almost be thick enough to cut with a knife.

"So...."

Beth wasn't sure what to say next. It felt like she should say something or offer maybe an explanation to what Justin did but she was cut off to quickly as Justin bids his farewell. Being slightly confused Beth gives a small wave.

"Give me a call later if you want. I'll be up late after work."

Once Justin was gone Beth turns back to Zach. Her look was one that was slightly apoligetic. If she had felt the tension than there was no doubt that Zach did too. Not really knowing Justin it must have been even worse for him.

"That was strange, Justin is not normally like that. I'm sorry if that was awkward for you or anything."

Starting to walk again Beth new she had to or this whole thing would get her worked up. She wasn't sure why it happened but it bothered her and she hoped both her friends were ok. Maybe in this setting it was just to strange to them. But something just made Beth wants to explain a little more to Zach.

"Justin doesn't really work here. He just comes times to help people here. His Uncle is a Dr here. I met him not to long ago when our paths crossed a while ago. He was the first friend I ever had and he helped me a lot without me even knowing it. Now I do say he is one of my best friends. There is a lot more to the story there but maybe I can explain that over another cup of coffee sometime. Its a long story and..."

Truth was she never told anyone but Justin so the thought of telling someone else kind of scared her. Maybe if she could take some time to think about it, and maybe in a more comfortable setting she would be ok.

"...It's not that I dont trust you but its hard for me and I think coffee would be a more comfortable place to explain everything."

As Eric shoots the foam Ashlee's way she giggles and looks over the horses brawd back at him squinting her eyes.

"Oh sure your in on it too now hummm?"

Going back to work for a moment Ashlee is quiet but slowly a grin forms on her lips as she takes a hand full of bubbles and throws them over the horse and in Eric's direction. Trying to hold in a laugh she goes back to work trying to get the dirt. Though a small little snicker does slip out.

Tense

Scott sits on his living room floor cross-legged with Domino curled up in his lap. He leans back against the wall and studies the photos he had just taped up to the opposite wall. There were many. He wouldn't leave them there. But this was the best way to sort out which ones were the best or his favorites.

"You got some good ones there..."

Scott gives half a sidelong glance to Brian, who was on the couch. "Yeah." They hadn't spoken much today. Last night had not been a good one. Scott had woken up at midnight with a nightmare and it had taken Brian an hour to calm him down. Sleep was restless after that, and the circles under Scott's eyes today proved it. But he had gotten up... and he was trying to make it through the day as normally as he could. It was only lunchtime now though and he was exhausted. Taking a break to look at his recent pictures was the only thing that didn't make him even more tired.

Brian sips his iced tea and eyes the photos again. "She's a very beautiful woman."

Scott studies the pictures of Hope he'd captured when they'd gotten together a couple times this week at the park, and once more for supper at her place. Some pictures were color. Some black and white. She was smiling. Laughing with Domino. Or staring back at the camera with a pensive look. It didn't matter the angle - Brian was right. "Yes she is."

"Been having fun spending a little time with her again?"

"Yeah."

Quiet settles over the room again for several moments until Brian speaks again. "Think you'll date her again?"

Scott looks down and strokes Domino's fur, deep in thought. Things had been kind of like old times... kind of. "I don't know."

"Why wouldn't you?"

"Would you?"

"What do you mean?"

Scott sighs. "Look at me." He glances up at Brian again. "I can't even handle being alone. I don't know if it will get better. I don't know if I'll have a relapse. I don't know if I can handle anything beyond sleeping and eating." He shrugs. "I can't put her through that."

Brian thinks for a moment. "Shouldn't that be her choice?"

"Maybe. But I won't watch her suffer because of me. I... I can tell she wants what we had but... I just can't do it. Not until I feel whole again... and I don't know if or when that will be."

Brian nods slowly. "I think I understand. Just don't sell yourself, or her, short."


Things are surprisingly quiet for a moment after Beth's introduction until Zach makes the first move. "Hi." He extends his hand.

Justin eyes it for just a second before accepting it in a firm grip. "Nice to meet you."

"Yeah, same here." Zach smiles, but Justin staring at him makes him reduce his enthusiasm just a bit. "You, um... work here?"

"Nah." Justin looks down at the dogs and tells them to chill for a moment and they sit obediently. For some reason, he felt very uncomfortable right now. He wasn't sure why, though. Beth seemed very happy and that was a good thing, right? Zach looked clean-cut and seemed nice as far as a first impression went. So what was it that was bothering Justin so much?

Zach waits for a further explanation but when none comes, he clears his throat. "Oh."

Their eyes meet again for a brief but tense moment until Justin glances to Beth, giving her another small smile. "Well, I don't want to keep you two. I'll catch you tomorrow or something."


Eric grins at Ashlee talking to the horse as he works on the other side. He didn't mind this kind of work either... grooming the horses had always been a favorite thing to do, almost as much as riding.

Glancing over the mare's back, he flicks a glop of foamy soap in Ashlee's direction before quickly looking away and continuing to work.

Bubbles

Walking down the hall with Zach Beth gives a laugh. Seeing Justin Beth was a bit surprised but smiles anyways. Even if she didn't plan on bumping into him it was nice to see him there anyways. Now she could introduce him to Zach as well. It meant a lot for her to be able to do that.

Feeling the cold lick on her hand Beth gives a laugh before petting both the dogs on the head. She loved both the dogs. They were so pretty and calm spirited she loved spending time with them just as much as Justin. Standing up again Beth gives another smile before turning half way between Justin and Zach.

"Morning Justin. Zach this is my best friend Justin. He's the only I was telling you about that likes my cherry pie. Justin this is my friend Zach I was talking to you about the other day."

Following Eric outside to gather the horses that needed to be washed Ashlee does her best to calm down a little be as to not get the horses excited too. Helping Eric tie her outside Ashlee waits for her next direction as she softly talks to the horse.

"We are gonna give you a nice good iching. Mmmm...Did you have fun in the mud?"

Doing what Eric said Ashlee moves in circles creating even more soap bubbles as she goes along. Pressing hard the soap slowly starts a turn a little to a different color.

"This makes me think of when mom washes my hair when I was a kid. It always felt good when she pressed her fingers on my head. I use to LOVE that."

Continuing to wash the horse Ashlee pays attachen to cretin areas that were more dirty than the others. Giving a laugh as the horse swishes its hair in her direction bubbles following her.

"Hey throw the bubbles at him not me silly."

Dirt

Zach chuckles at Beth's comment as he looks up to meet her sparkling gaze. He was glad she didn't mind him being here. He had a feeling that she didn't share this part of her life with many people. He really didn't have any reason to think that, but it was just a hunch. He liked her... and it was kinda fun to see she liked him too. Maybe making new friends wasn't so hard after all.

Seeing Beth move about the room, Zach got the feeling that perhaps for now they could move on. Giving Sarah one last smile, he winks at her before standing. "Well, I think I'm going to go now, Sarah. I sure am glad I got to come today and see you. Maybe I'll come back sometime too."

On his feet again, he nods to Beth that he was ready whenever she was.

A few minutes later, he's leading the way at a leisurely pace to another wing where his great uncle was...

...Justin ambles down the hall at Brookshire having come from the office after filling out some paperwork on Scott. He hadn't really needed to do that today. But it was as good a day as any, right? Besides, he might just happen to see Beth too. And this friend of hers. Whatever his name was. Come to think of it, he really didn't need to be in this part of the building at all. But he did get to see some familiar faces and say hi, right? And Danitza and Zora were also enjoying the walk.

Keeping the dogs on their leashes, he stopped by a few patients to bring some smiles, slowly working his way to the front foyer. And when he gets there, he sees just who he... hadn't... been looking for.

Approaching Beth and her friend, he smiles. "Hey, Beth. Thought I might see you here today."

The dogs wag their tails, pleased to see someone they knew, and Danitza closes the gap to lick Beth's hand. Justin doesn't chide her, knowing that Beth enjoyed the dogs.

Zach was a little surprised but says nothing, waiting for Beth to introduce him if she wanted to.


Jeff gains a new grin and nods at Stacy. "Supper. I'll be here."


Eric chuckles. "Yeah, Thunder's pretty ornery sometimes. I think he just likes to cause trouble for the attention, like a little kid."

As he takes his time eating, he watches Ashlee out of the corner of his eye, noticing that it was getting harder for her to sit still. Another chuckle slips out and he pushes his plate aside. "I think I've had enough to eat for one meal."

He does drink the rest of his coffee though, not letting the special gesture go to waste. Standing up, he grabs his cowboy hat and slaps it on his head. "Okay, kiddo. Let's go get some dirty horses."

The first choice is a little gray mare that was mud from head to toe after apparently finding some nice wet earth near the pond when she'd gotten loose yesterday. Tying her up outside the barn, he lets Ashlee help him get the hose hooked up and some shampoo and brushes.

Once getting the mare nice and wet, he lets Ashlee pour on some soap and shows her how to scrub. "Just go in circles," he directs, starting to create lather. "And go ahead and press hard - she likes it and it'll help get all that dirt out of there."

Ornary

Watching Zach interact with Sarah Beth can't help but let her smile widen. He sure was good with her and was soft about everything he said and did. Beth could tell he had experience dealing with this kind of thing. There was no sense of awkwardness, or not knowing how to act. It made Zach a little more amazing than he was before. Being able to talk with her sister and treat her well was important to Beth.

"I think he's being sweet on us both Kiddo! What do you think? Yeah I agree He's a pretty nice guy."

Looking to Zach and smiling Beth looks back to her sister and leans in giving her a kiss on the cheek and a hug she just lets it linger for a long moment. She didn't mind if Zach saw the affection she showed her sister. She loved her and that was something she would never hide from anyone.

"I see snooty Nurse Mary let you keep your braid in this morning. Honestly I don't mind to much when she makes you take it out. That just means I get to play with your hair again."

Standing up again and giving a little stretch Beth disapreas into the little bathroom for a quick moment before returning with a cup and some water. Going over to the pretty violet that sat on the table she poured the water into it than throws the cup out. She wasn't sure how long Zach wanted to stay but she was ready to follow him to see his Uncle when ever he was. She could always come back to spend a little more time with Sara later.

Stacy gives a chuckle. It didn't seem so back cleaning stalls. It could be worse and at least Jeff was still able to do that with his health problems.

"Ah the life of a cowboy. Dosn't seem to bad to me. It could be worse right?"

Taking the last sip of her coffee Stacy leans back in her chair just letting her eyes roam the room for a moment before talking again.

"Well I better get back to work or I am not going to get anything done. See you tonight at dinner?"

Ashlee laughs right along with Eric knowing he was joking. Even if he wasnt counting bales couldn't be that bad right? Hearing about the baths and even getting to do the horses mains and tails Ashlee can't help but light up even more.

"That sounds like lots of fun. I walked by someone washing Tucker the other day and mmmmm the soap smelled so good."

Almost bouncing in her seat Ashlee waits patently for Eric to finish eating. She didn't want to rush him but she was just to excited to contain it all.

"I think the horses like being brushed the best. They always seem so content when you do it. Unless your Thunder. He's just ornery."

Boring Stuff

Zach grins, enjoying the fact that Beth caught his sense of humor and didn't mind. Following her inside, he's quite familiar with the surroundings, but lets her take the lead since he wasn't sure which wing her sister was in. Come to think of it, he really didn't know why her sister was here at all or how severe her condition was. But he was more than willing to be here, especially if it meant that perhaps he was making a new friend.

Slowly entering the room behind Beth, he just watches her for a moment, taking note that Sarah did not speak. Though a very pretty young lady, she had no expression, other than her eyes following Beth's movements.

Cautiously, Zach moves forward to come closer. Squatting down in front of Sarah, he offers her a broad smile. "Hi, Sarah. I'm glad to meet you." He glances around the room. "I really like it in here. It's nice and bright with the sunshine coming in your window."

His smile widens. "Kind of like your sister. She's like a ray of sunshine too, isn't she?" He was used to not receiving responses. Some days it was like this with his uncle, though every once in a while he'd get a bit of a smile or a conversation of about ten words. Sarah was different. He didn't know what was wrong or what she'd been through, but the room had an odd sense of peace about it.

Zach remains lowered where he is, letting his eyes roam Sarah's face but careful not to look her in the eye too long, lest it be threatening to her. "I'm really glad Beth brought me to meet you."


Jeff was rather relieved that Stacy wasn't upset with him, and his smile proved it. He did catch her blush though, and made a mental note to use his head a little more from now on.

Chuckling, he shrugs. "Not much on my list the rest of the day I guess. If Angel knew how much I'd done already this morning she'd probably order me not to do anything else. But I'll probably wind up cleaning stalls or something - the glamor job, you know."


Eric almost chokes on his sip of coffee from the laugh that catches in his throat. "If we had ten of you around here, we wouldn't need any other ranch hands," he muses. "Pretty soon we're gonna be down to the boring stuff like counting hay bales."

He grins though, so she would know he was just teasing - he thoroughly enjoyed simply watching her enjoy being here. He wished her birthday would come sooner so she'd have some more fun things to do with the horses.

"I think a couple of the horses need some good baths today." That was something he hadn't done with her yet, and it could be fun. "You could even braid their manes and tails if you want."

Introductions

Beth can't help but laugh a little again. Zach had a good sense of humor, she liked that. It seemed to make the whole becoming friends a little easier. Being able to laugh it helped mask the little bit of fear, and shyness she felt as well.

"No your not helping but thats alright. I still think your pretty cool."

As Zach stands Beth moves a little to the side moving her fallen purse strap back onto her shoulder. Giving a nod to Zach she starts forward leading the way to her sisters room. Passing a few nurses Beth greets them.

Finally stopping outside the room Beth gives a little knock before entering the room. Sitting in a rocking chair over by the window was a lovely woman with long black hair neatly pulled back into a braid. Giving a smile Beth enters holding the door before going over to Sarah and giving her a hug.

"Hey Sis, How are you feeling today?"

Receiving no answer Beth doesn't skip a beat use to it but not leading on to her sister that it bother her or that it wasn't normal at all.

"I'm a little tired today but in a pretty good mood. I hope you don't mind I brought some company with me."

Waving Zach over Beth gives another smile before bending down in front of her sister and taking her hand in her own. Sometimes it was hard to talk to her and never get a reply but Beth was happy she had her to talk to anyways.

"Sarah this is my new friend Zach. Zach this is my sister Sarah."

Looking at Jeff and giving a smile Stacy is silent for a moment. She wasn't offended last night at all by Jeff's actions. She still wasn't sure how to feel but she was far from offended. It had come and kind of a suprise to have been kissed but in a way it was kind of nice too.

"No No your ok Jeff. It takes more than that to offended me for sure."

Taking a sip of her coffee Stacy falls quiet again for a moment her eyes never leaving Jeff. Searching his face, pondering his actions and admiring his features for a moment. Finally breaking her stare a little color comes to her cheeks.

"So whats on the to do list today?"

Sitting down Ashlee holds her smile. She had felt bad for Eric, and she still did that his first cup was wasted but thats where this one came in. It could be just as good if not better.

Moving a little to get comfortable Ashlee perks up a little bit as Eric mentions her school work. She had been working hard on it all morning and in a way she was kind of waiting for him to says something.

"I got it all done this morning. After lunch I planned on coming to find you. I even got my homework for the weekend done too so if you need help I can help than too."

Warm

Having Beth stand over him, Zach's eyes widen for a moment. He hadn't heard her approach. Grinning a bit sheepishly, he picks himself up from the ground and brushes off his jeans.

"It's going great! At least the cloud gazing is." Smiling, he cocks his head, able to see Beth in the daylight for the first time. She seemed happy today. "I'm just glad you showed up. I thought maybe you woulda pegged me for a creep or something and..." He lets his sentence trail off. "I'm not helping much am I?"

He scratches his head. "I better start over. Hi, Beth. Good to see you. I'll let you lead the way to your sister, how's that?"


"Well thats good. I-" Jeff is cut short by the nearby clatter and he winces for Eric's sake. "Oops." Seeing it was under control though, he turns his attention back around only to have Ashlee suddenly leave. Was it him? He hoped not. Though he was a little glad for a moment alone with Stacy.

He clears his throat. "Um... I hope I didn't... offend you or anything last night." He eyes the table then looks back up at her. "I realize I may have acted inappropriately but I didn't mean to."


Having Ashlee suddenly appear at his table, Eric's eyebrows rise. He looks at the fresh cup of coffee then up at her with question. Hearing the reminder of his promise, not only does he feel a strange warmth in his heart, but he finds his lips curling into a genuine smile.

"I guess I did promise, didn't I? Maybe I just need a reminder every once in a while."

Motioning her to sit with him, he adds a little sugar to his coffee and stirs it in. "Thanks, Kiddo." He gives her a sidelong glance. "I wasn't sure I'd be able to make it back to the table with another cup." He rolls his eyes, still feeling a might stupid. It was time to change the subject.

"So how's that school of yours coming along today?"

You Promised

Pulling into Brookshire Beth cuts the engine on her car and just sits for a moment. She didn't have Zach's number, and she wasn't sure where to meet him but if she went inside she was sure to find him.

Finally getting out of the car and walking down the sidewalk Beth stops for a moment at a small metal bench and a smile passes over her lips the memories of first meeting Justin passing through her mind. Those were good memories, life changing memories, good memories.

Continuing her walk Beth sees a form laying in the grass and she can make out Zach. He looked comfortable, at least she found him. Her heart started to beat just a little faster as she went over to him and looking down.

"And I though I'd have a hard time finding you. I didn't have to look to far. Hows it going?"

Smiling as Jeff sits down Stacy gives a small laugh at Jeff as he mentions what time it was. One could lose track of time here and not know when was when. Stacy had done it a few times herself. Taking a sip of her coffee she gives a small nod.

"The day is going pretty good here so far. Not problems that are to big. I have to fix a few camera that got messed up in the wind last night but other than that things are on an evan keel."

Stoping for a moment as she hears the shreek from when Eric ran into Becky Stacy cringes a little bit feeling slightly bad for him.

Seeing what happened with Eric Ashlee felt bad. She couldn't imagine how embarrassed he was. Just watching as he forgets the coffee and gets his food she looks back to Jeff giving a small smile.

"I'm doing ok. School went good this morning."

Excusing herself Ashlee gets up dont with her lunch and takes her empty plate to the kitchen placing it in the sink. Looking to the coffee pot there seemed to be enough left for a cup. Grabbing a new one she pours in the coffee and grabs a few packets of suger and some creamer.

Going back into the dinning hall Ashlee walks over to Eric's table and sets the cup down giving a small smile. She really did feel bad for him and she didn't like to see when he didn't smile.

"You promised remember? You promised to keep being yourself and smile. I though maybe getting you your coffee would help with that."

Friday

"Is this seat taken?" Jeff smiles and sits down across from Stacy and Ashlee in the dining hall. It was lunchtime the next day, and he'd been helping in the barn all morning without hardly a chance for even coffee this morning. So sitting down for a meal now was a much needed rest. He offers Ashlee a smile too.

"Good..." He looks at his watch. "...Afternoon, apparently." His next glance to Stacy held just a bit of curiosity... perhaps feeling her out after their little parting last night. "And how has the morning treated you two?"


"Ack! Eric!"

Eric skids to a halt, but only after running into Becky as he came out of the kitchen. His coffee was now all over the floor and... all over her too. "Aw man, I'm sorry, Beck." He leans down to clean up his dropped mug at the same time she does and all it does is run their heads together.

Straightening, now with a soaked apron and hurt head, Becky manages to roll her eyes and laugh. "Just clean up the mess ya big goon. Where were your eyes?"

Mopping up the mess with a towel, Eric chooses not to tell her that he'd been looking at a certain table across the room. "I have no idea. Your coffee is too good to waste anyhow."

She chuckles and shakes her head. "No harm done."

A few minutes later, Eric was settled at a table alone back in the corner with his lunch, quietly eating by himself.


Friday. A quarter til eleven o'clock. Brookshire. Zach wanders slowly up the sidewalk, enjoying the sunshine. He didn't remember agreeing with Beth where exactly they'd meet, so he'd arrived early and had been sitting at the main building until he'd wanted to stretch his legs. Would she even show up? He thought so. But he wasn't usually a betting man. If she didn't come, he'd visit his uncle anyway and it would hardly be a wasted trip. Although... he would be a bit disappointed.

Hearing another vehicle, he glances up to see and old pickup pull in and drive to a nearby lot. Nope. Guy driver.

Yawning, Zack glances at his watch again. He probably had a few minutes yet.

Finding a nice sunny spot on the neatly trimmed lawn, he plops down on his back and sprawls out to stare up at the clouds.

Munchies

Beth can't help but laugh as she stands and gather the plates and bowls. B rated moves had never been her thing till she started watching them with Justin. Now she enjoyed watching them too. Even if some of the stuff was so funny and bad.

"I think that sounds good. I don't have to be up to horrible early tomorrow so I don't mind staying up later than normal."

Pushing the dishes into the sink and filling it with a little water and dish soap Beth just lets them soak for now. She would wash them a little later.

"Munchies as long as you remember the cracked pepper chips and its a date."

Reading the text message Dan gives a small sigh. Something didn't feel right but there was nothing he could do about it. He could only hope that Dylan really was ok and God would take care of the rest. Still there was a helpless feeling and it didn't feel good.

Hate

Huddled in the corner of the dark living room, Dylan feels the phone vibrate again and turns to hide the light as he reads the text message from Dan. 'Is everything alright?' He swallows hard and glances to his arm. His hoodie sleeve hid the day-old needle marks.

'You're never too far away.' He bites his lip. He was further away than anybody knew, but not just in miles. Continuing to read just made his gut churn even more. A great ranch... lonely young girl. Dylan kinda missed Ashlee too.

Leaning back into the wall, the darkness, like a blanket, wraps itself around him. He'd been gone from the ranch less than two weeks, and already found himself in this miserable place. A place he'd vowed to himself never to return. But at least no one was yelling at him. Accusing him of things he hadn't done. Staring at him with disdain and distrust.

He pulls his knees up to his chest, blocking out the sound of retching in the nearby bathroom. Apparently the bad booze hadn't mixed well with everything else. A woman's voice purred from down the hall. Dylan buries his head against the wall. A loud thud in the room behind him makes him jump and curl in even tighter. He didn't want to know.

Only when it's quiet again does he flip open the phone again and type with his thumbs...

Re: Text Message
To: Dan
From: Unknown 555-7295

Long story abt the phone. Dont worry abt me.
Im taking care of myself ok.
Thx for txting.

Dylan

Shutting the phone after pressing "send," Dylan returns to his curled-up position. This time, though, a fresh tear rolls down his cheek. He already wanted his next fix, and hated himself for it.


Even though the conversation doesn't continue, Eric's mind mulls over what Stacy had just said about Ashlee. Would the girl really care that much? He knew the answer. And he knew the answer to whether or not he'd miss her hanging around him too. For once... maybe there was a downside to being on the road. He'd think about it some more.

Seeing Stacy ready to leave, Eric was almost disappointed for a moment, though that alone was enough to confuse him. He stops the swing and looks over at her with a nod. "Okay. I was thinking about bed myself. I should probably head back that way now that-"

He bites his tongue and is thankful for the darkness to hide the crimson in his cheeks. "...now that it's getting late," he ends lamely.

Standing, he reaches up and tips his hat to her. "Goodnight, ma'am."


Justin grins. "B movies are never horrible. They're just.... B movies." Getting the last of his soup with the end of his sandwich, he finishes off his food and licks his fingers. "I don't know..." He shakes his head. "You're spoiling me awful bad with your cooking."

Taking a sip of water, his grin returns. "I can come back tonight if you want." He didn't want her to have to drive an hour late at night to come to his place, but he didn't mind it for himself. "But only if I can bring the munchies."