Just the same

Knocking on the door Jess checks to see if its unlocked and just walks in. Looking into the living room and not seeing him in there Jess heads to the kitchen.

"Axel I'm here."

Seeing the set up in the kitchen all Jess can do is stand there with a big smile on her face. Axel was always sweet. No matter what he always did his best to make her feel good.

"You didn't have to do this Axel..."

Jess comes up to him and puts her arms around his neck pulling him into a hug. He sure did make her feel special.

"...But thank you just the same."

Looking to Pete with a bit of surprise Trey wondered why Pete wouldn't bother to tell Reese. Between him and Ariel he just couldn't understand them it was so confusing...could they...really care?

"Why Pete? I don't understand why. Ariel says she care, and but I dont understand why when you guy were just pretending. I just don't get it."

Trey just continues to look at Pete before taking another sip of coffee. He was tired, his head hurt and he felt stupid and confused.

Sitting down next to Jason Katie gives a laugh. Even though it came out a little dry she tried to just roll with it. Leaning forward she grabs a slice of pizza and takes a bit just letting the silence linger. Some people might think the slince was nice but Katie hated it, yet it was almost welcomed because she didn't know what to say.

"Umm...It was alright. Not really busy today. I had a lot of computer work to do. Other than that...nothing."

Taking another bite Katie still felt so strange trying to figure out small talk, trying to express things it seemed so difficult. Things were getting a little better though right? Her and Jason were alright and were working through this right?

"How about you? Taking it easy on that leg? Rick call you a million times yet?"

Not gonna

"I don't know." Dani shakes her head at Aerith. "He's been such a grouch lately. I woulda thought he and Misty were having trouble, but every time he talks to her or sees her, he's all Mr. Happy again. Not that it's any of my business, but I'm kinda tired of his moodiness."

She sighs and picks up some glasses that needed to be washed. "Maybe it's as simple as him not sleeping well, but one of these days, I'm gonna kick him in his seat if he doesn't quit taking it out on the rest of us."


Jason gives Katie a wry grin. "Guess he couldn't. He was crossing his legs - figured I better let him out. It was either that or let you walk through a puddle when you got here."

Humor? Jason had barely cracked a joke since everything had happened. Was it an improvement now? Did that mean he was slowly gaining something back?

His grin remains, but his eyes don't twinkle. Humor? Whether he'd said something funny or not... he didn't really feel it.

Moving to the side, he lets Katie in, then whistles for Trooper, who obediently returns. Closing the door, he hobbles back to the living room, following the scent of pizza. Wincing, he eases down on the couch again, putting his leg back up on the footstool that had been made taller with a couple folded blankets.

"Pizza smells good," he comments. Why did small talk seem difficult? And why did such an annoying thing not... feel... annoying? He tries to just relax. "So, um... how was your day?"


As Trey removes her hand from him, Ariel catches a rather irritated look in his eye, and she retreats. She hadn't meant to annoy him. She was just worried about him was all. Had she said too much? Had she gone too far by calling Pete? Maybe it wasn't her place to worry at all, or be concerned for Trey's welfare. He was a grown man and could take care of himself. Maybe she really had been stupid. But she hadn't meant to be patronizing, and she hoped that his annoyance didn't mean that he'd thought she'd done anything on purpose. All she'd done on purpose was care.

Giving him a nod and wave goodbye, she remains quiet until Trey is gone. "No... it's not okay," she agrees quietly.

Sighing deeply, she turns to look at the breakfast that wasn't going to stay warm much longer. Wandering down the hall to her office, she taps on the half-open door before pushing it open. "Hey, Colt, are you..." Her sentence trails off when she sees him lying on the floor, fully dressed with his hands behind his head. His eyes looks up at her with curiosity. She sets a hand on her hip. "I thought you were still asleep."

"Nah. I've been awake for a while."

"How come you didn't come out?"

"Figured you'd rather have me out of the way until Trey was gone."

Ariel bites her lip. "Hear everything?"

Colt grins and sits up. "Maybe."

"Did I do too much?"

Colt sighs. Standing up, he gives her shoulder a pat. "You only did as much as anybody who cares that much would. If he took it the wrong way, that's his problem. But you don't have anything to apologize for, if that's what you mean."

Ariel looks down and turns to follow him back to the kitchen. "He gave me a look that warned me I was acting like a mother or something."

Colt chuckles. "Let me put it this way..." He wanders to the coffee pot. "You could have treated him like a two-year-old this morning and he would have deserved it after last night. He owes you big time for being so nice to him. He's got a chip on his shoulder the size of Texas. I doubt anything you could have said this morning would have induced a different reaction."

"Maybe." Ariel shakes her head and sits down at the table. "Well, no matter. I doubt I'll hear from him again anyway after all this."

"You're not gonna go see him?" Colt snitches a link of sausage before sitting across from her. "After all you did?"

"That's just it." Ariel shrugs. "I don't think he cares. He was irate yesterday, downright mean, and if he's going to be that way then, so be it. I did all I could, but... I can't go begging him to stay friends."

Colt studies his sister for a moment. He knew her well enough to know that there were quite a few conflicting emotions churning in her. But he knew better than to press her. "Okay then."


Pete is rather relieved when he sees Trey coming out of the house. He'd wondered if he'd even show at all, let alone be willing to ride with him.

Waiting until Trey was in and buckled up, he pulls away from the curb without a word. The first few blocks are silent as Pete drives, his sunglasses hiding his gaze. Finally though, he speaks.

"Reese doesn't know," he states flatly. "So unless you tell him, he's not gonna know either." He falls silent again.


Ending the call with Jess, Axel felt rotten. She'd gotten dressed up for tonight. He knew good and well that first, she didn't do that often, and second, any woman would be disappointed if they'd gone to all that effort just to have plans change. She could have declined on coming to his place, but she was too kind. No... he'd just disappointed her... again. Way to go.

Signing, Axel dials his phone again, this time calling for Chinese. And... maybe there would be another call after that so the night wasn't a complete bomb.

A while later, some soft classical music was playing and Axel is dishing Chinese food out of the cartons and onto several plates at the kitchen table. The curtain was drawn so it was a softer light, and a bouquet of bright colored flowers were in front of Jess' seat. Though Axel was in his bare feet, he had on a nicer pair of jeans at least, and a white collard shirt that he'd tucked in.

Continuing to set the table, he knows Jess will be here any moment and... he hoped that he could make up for at least a little bit of her disappointment. She deserved better.

Dress

Looking to Dani as another shout comes from the kitchen Aerith throws a look over her shoulder and than back to Dani shaking her head a little. There was a part of her that was happy Thirteen wasn't here. She was doing really good but was still a little skidish around yelling. That was probable something she might always have a problem with.

"What bee got in his pants today? think everything's ok?"

Picking up the phone and hearing Carson's voice a smile spreads across Misty's face. When ever Carson called her it always seemed like that. She always loved his voice his words just nothing seemed to compare.

"That sounds great. If your home by fiveish that would be good. If you could pick up some soda one your way home too that would be great. Thanks Babe I'll see you than."

Hanging up the phone Misty stands and walks out to Con's cubicle where Jamie was sitting with him. Leaning on the wall she gives a smile her eyes sparkled a little more than normal today.

"Carson was cool you guys coming over. He's gonna be home about fiveish and is gonna grab some soda if you guys wanna bring some french bread. We can have dinner and than maybe play some games or something tonight."

Misty really was happy they were getting together. It had been a while and the fellowship would be nice. It was funny to think of how close Carson had gotten with Jamie and Con, out of all people but stranger things had happened and it was one more way to see the amazing power of God and forgiveness.

Pulling into the driveway Katie see Trooper shoot out the door and Jason just standing in the doorway. Giving a shake of her head she wondered how Jason did it. He's had leg surgery, and now he was in the hosue all the time, yet he had gotten up and taken the dog out. If it had been her she would....Katie wondered trying to reach into the deepths of her mind. She would what?

The lack of emotions where still there though she tried her best to find them or act like she though she should but the truth was...it just wasn't the same and it was slightly lonely inside her own mind...alone.

Shaking her head, grabbing the pizza and heading up the sidewalk till she was facing Jason Katie pushed the questions out of her mind for now as she gave a smerk at him.

"He just couldn't wait a few more seconds till I got here huh?"

Getting in her car Jess answers the phone. She couldn't help but fear it was Axel canceling again. Hearing that he wanted her to come over instead she let out of small sigh but part of it was releaf too. At least he wasn't canceling again.

"As long as you don't mind me coming over in the dress I put on for the restront sure. Chinese sounds pretty good to me. I'll see ya in a little bit."

Hanging up the phone Jess taps her fingers on the searing wheel. It wasn't often she put a dress on and she practily had to force herself to put this one on, but now that it was she didn't feel like taking it off. She was disappointed about not going to the restront but she wouldn't lead on to it. Maybe tonight she could find out what was going on with Axel.

Taking the cup of coffee from Ariel Trey takes a sip. Looking back at Ariel again as she mentions Pete was waiting for him Trey can't help but roll his eyes and let out a long sigh. He could of walked and he would of been fine even if he was tired. Why she didn't think he couldn't get home safe was beyond him and it annoyed him slightly.

"Great, should be a fun ride back to the dungan. Thanks anyways I guess."

As she reaches out to play with a peace of hair Trey looks into her eyes again. With her words that followed he almost felt like he was a kid again and the teacher wouldn't let him walk home because he missed the bus. He was use to taking care of himself and having someone almost baby him...he wasn't to sure if he liked it.

Reaching up and taking her hand Trey hold it for a second before bringing it down from his hair. He needed time to process everything that had happened, he needed time to just think things through but he felt more level headed than he had yesterday before drinking.

"Ya, I'll let him."

Turning Trey heads twords the door to leave but stops a moment before looking over his shoulder. Letting out another small sigh.

"Sorry about yesterday. Showing up here drunk and everything. Don't say its ok either because I know its not. Just...sorry."

Continuing on his way Trey exits the house and squints into the sunlight. Figures the one day he needed his sunglasses he didn't have them. Seeing Pete car Trey stops for a moment. He wanted to run, he wants to walk, he didn't want to be close in a car with Pete, but he'd already promised Ariel he would.

Getting down the side walk and opening the door Trey gets in before closing it behind him and taking another sip from his glass. Looking at Pete and than looking out the window Trey didn't know what to say if anything.

Phone Calls

The kitchen phone rings out but is barely heard above the clatter of pots and pans. Carson growls as he tries to keep a stack of dishes from falling over, while juggling two pans of pizza. "Dani! Would you- gah." Once he's finally able to get everything on the counter, the ringing stops. He rolls his eyes. Sure. Go figure.

"Yes?" Dani sticks her head in through the door.

He tosses her an annoyed glance. "Too late now."

She recoils slightly. "Well I'm sorry. I was busy with a customer."

"Meaning you were standing there gabbing while I needed you back here."

Dani's eyes narrow. "I don't know whose cactus you sat on, but pull out the nettles an get on with your day."

If Carson hadn't been in such a sour mood, he would have laughed. As it was, he just glares at the door after she'd gone. Just as he's throwing another pizza in the oven, his cell phone goes off. Wiping his hands on a towel, he wanders over to the basket on the counter where he kept his phone. Misty. He sighs. His thumb twitches, wanting to flip open the phone. But he doesn't. Shutting off the sound, he lets it go, knowing she'd leave him a message...

"...no, not tonight.... I can't.... No, Misty wants to invite some friends over. I gotta be there." Carson paces the kitchen. It was twenty minutes later and he was on his cell phone. "No! Not like this. It... come on, don't give me that. I can't do that, don't you understand?!"

Out at the counter, Dani smiles sweetly at a customer before throwing Aerith a worried glance. She knew she wasn't the only one who could hear her brother on the phone while he raised his voice, and it was rather embarrassing.

Carson groans and runs a hand over his face. "Not yet. It's not the right time..... Okay... fine.... Yes, soon... Yes. .... Alright, okay.... but not the whole time.... Yeah, I can be late. Alright... see you later." Shutting his phone, he leans back against the refrigerator to take a moment and collect his thoughts before dialing Misty. His voice was happier, but still strained.

"Hey, Babe... got your message. That's fine with me if you want Con and Jamie over tonight. I'll either close up here early or have one of the girls close up for me. What time you want me home?"


"Yes, Rick... yes.... yes..." Jason sighs. He's lying on his couch with his leg elevated, his cordless phone cradled between his ear and shoulder. "I'm fine. Yes, I'm doing everything you told me to do." He shifts and winces. "Right. I'm exercising it but not walking on it. Quit worrying about me." He rolls his eyes. "Okay. Yeah, Katie's going to be here any minute so I'll be quite well taken care of. Stop worrying and do something more productive." He smirks. "Yeah, talk to you tomorrow."

Hanging up, Jason leans his head back and closes his eyes. His knee surgery had gone very well a few days ago, and now it was just going to take time to recover. He was going to be on crutches for a short while, but he was already ordered to exercise his leg to assist it in healing, and that, he could do. He felt like going crazy, being stuck at home, and he couldn't wait until Rick at least let him go back to work, even if it was just for paperwork. If he did everything right, his recovery time could potentially be far shorter than anticipated, and that's what he was aiming for.

Now though - it was evening and he was weary and cooped up at the same time. He knew Katie was coming over but he had no idea if they were going to do supper or watch a movie or what. Either way was fine with him.

Trooper's whine makes him look towards the door to see the giant dog waiting to be let out.

"Seriously? Now?"

Trooper wags his tail.

"Your timing is great, ya big brute." Jason looks around for his crutches, but for some reason, they were in the kitchen. He had no idea why or how he'd left them there, but he wasn't amused. He wasn't going to hobble in there just to get them though. It was only a short distance to the door.

Managing to get up and leaning on the couch for support, he makes it, quite gingerly to the door to let the dog out. Just staying there, he leans against the doorframe so he didn't have to go back and sit down just to get up again.


It was getting late. Well... late if Axel was planning on going out tonight. After postponing dinner yet again last night, he should be changing his clothes now and cleaning up to go. But he wasn't. He was still sitting on the floor of his living room. He fingers his cell phone.

Part of him still wanted to be alone. Part of him longed for company. Part of him felt it was safer to be by himself. Part of him just wanted a hug. Part of him wanted to continue hiding what was going on with him. Part of him needed to talk it through with someone.

After thinking about it for several more minutes, he finally opens his phone. He hoped Jess hadn't yet left to go to the restaurant. When she answers, he bites his lip. "Hey, it's me. Um..." He couldn't break their date again. He just couldn't. "You wanna come over to my place tonight instead of going out? I can order chinese or something... Not exactly elegant but..." He really didn't want to go out in public tonight. "Would that be okay with you?"


By the time Trey returns to the kitchen, breakfast was on the table, along with a fresh pot of coffee in the maker. Ariel rinses out the skillet before wiping her hands and turning to look at Trey. He looked a whole lot better. He still looked tired, and it was obvious he'd had a rough evening before, but he was at least more alert now.

"You're welcome." She smiles and goes to the cupboard, pulling down a little travel mug. Filling it with coffee, she puts the lid on and brings it over to him at the table. "At least take one for the road."

She stands near him and sets her hand on his shoulder, giving it a little squeeze. "Pete's outside in his car," she explains gently. "I have to go to work and I didn't want you to have to walk all the way to TJY."

She waits for him to look up so she could catch his eye. She knew he probably didn't want to have anything to do with Pete, but there had been no one else, and she wanted to make sure he was safe. She could only hope that Trey wouldn't be too upset with her. "He's not mad. No one is. And this is all I'm going to ask of you today." Her voice remains soft. "Let Pete drive you back so I won't worry about you." She reaches out to fiddle with a few wet strands of his hair, combing them back with her fingers. "Can you do that for me?"

Strange

Looking for the hall for a moment Trey doesn't move almost as if still not sure this was all just innocent kindness or a set up for something else. Shaking his head he new he did need to show and look halfway decent for when he return to TJY for his whipping.

Walking down the hall and finding the bathroom Trey enters and shut the door behind him. Looking in the mirror for a long moment he really did look a mess. He had a five a clock shadow going on and he looks like he had been through the ringer.

...A few minutes later after a nice warm shower Trey felt somewhat clean but he still felt pretty crappy. Walking into the kitchen in his bear feel he runs a hand through his wet hair and just lets it fall where it wants. His hair was short enough to be able to do that.

"Thanks for the shower, aspirin, and place to sleep."

Sitting down at the table Trey puts his shocks and shoes on. He might be rough around the edges, he might be broken but he still had manors. His parents had taught him that and it was something that had always stuck with him and always would.

"I should probable get going. I need to face the dogs sooner or later and I'd rather it was sooner to get it over with."

Trying to restront phone there was no answer. Strange. Trying Carson's phone still no answer double strange. Maybe it was just that busy at Mom and Pop's today. As the voicemail kicks on she leaves a message anyways.

"Hey Lover. I was wondering if you had any plans tonight and if not if you would mine Jamie and Con coming over for dinner. Jamie is itching to do something and I figured this would be good fellowship for us all. Give me a call back and let me know. I love you Carson."

Hanging up the phone Misty lets out a little sigh. She hopped everything was with Carson. The last few days he seemed high strung, and just stressed. She didn't know if it was work or what but she hopped he was alright.

Shaking her head and going back to work Misty just dug herself into her work. Once Carson got back to her she would let Con and Jamie know what was going on. It would be a fun might is Carson agreed maybe something they all needed.

Sitting at the kitchen table Jess plays with her phone for a long moment. It had been a few days since she had seen Axel and even longer since they had really been on a date. She hopped everything was ok. Sometimes he needed his free space and she new that but it was unlike him to call into work so much.

She wanted to call him but would that be invading. To Axel it might be. Maybe it was just better to let him call her first. If he canceled there date tonight she'd ask him about it. Jess worse fear though as that she was losing him.

Just...

Having Rosetta come to him, Mick doesn't pull away. There had been so much lately... so much stress... so much pain... this news just put it all over the top and he just couldn't handle it alone.

Resting his head against her, he didn't care about the time that passes or how many tears were shed. He hurt for Cindy. He hurt for Wes. He hurt for himself and the rest of the family. He hurt for Kaylee.

Eventually the small couch in the office is where Mick and Rosetta end up, pulling comfort from each other through hugs, tears and prayers together. But as the time does move on, the inevitable comes, and others must be told.

The information hits most hard. Some remain hopeful. Others don't believe there is hope. The women call on Cindy if she needs them or to take Kaylee off her hands for a while. The men grieve in silence as the work of the day continues. The ranch must function. The work must go on. But it's hard when a vital limb of the family's body has been lost.


Turning quickly from the stove, Ariel gives Trey a crooked grin. He looked terrible. Not that it was surprising. "Yeah." She nods to the hallway. "Down the hall on the right is the bathroom. There's aspirin in the cabinet above the sink."

Her grin becomes a gentle, understanding smile. "And if you want to use the shower, there's a clean towel hanging up there too. After that, I'll have some coffee made."


Axel remains seated on the floor in front of his couch. He'd finally worked half a day yesterday but had called in again today. He hadn't seen Jess in three days and kept putting off their dates. She'd asked if he needed anything - he'd said no. Carson had called - he'd put him off. No... there was nothing anybody could do.

Sighing, Axel's eyes flit back to the droning television. What was he supposed to do now? What if he really was wrong? He didn't think so. He'd been so sure. But the proof had dispersed before his eyes. Now what?

His eyes glance to his phone. He really did want to see Jess. She was probably worried about him and maybe even hurt that he'd been pushing her away. He hadn't wanted that. It was just...

He sighs again.

It was just hard.

Aspirin!

As Cindy enters the office Rosetta looks up from her desk. Giving a smile it soon fades seeing the look on Cindy's face. It makes her heart race and her stomach churn. It was a look that said something was wrong and Cindy was in a great deal of pain.

Hearing the news about Wes Rosetta's stomach crunches even more and it almost feels like she is going to be sick. After everything, everything that happened it was something like this that had take Wes down. Rosetta wanted to stand she wanted to go and hug Cindy but her legs just wouldn't work. They felt like jello as he skin went cold and a tear runs from her own cheek. Rosetta couldn't imagine what Cindy must be feeling.

"Please, if you need someone to talk to I am only a phone call away."

Rosetta wanted to say more but before she could Cindy was gone. Just sitting there for a while longer what her and Mick had been working on before was now gone. Her heart hurt and as she looked over at Mick it hurt even more. He very well could have just lost his brother and seeing the tears from him it make her heart hurt even more.

Finding the strength to stand Rosetta goes over to Mick's hand and sets a hand down on his shoulder before kneeling in front of him and wrapping her around around him. Letting her own tears just flow she comforted her husband at the same time. No words could ease this pain, only time, and hope two things that would not come easly but they would come. As for night now, tears and sarrow is what they were left with.

Moving on the couch Trey realized if can't roll one way and he can't move his legs either. Put on guard he sits up with a start. Sitting up and looking around he see a bundle of fur on his legs, and other can't at his side, and one on the back of the couch staring at him. Trying to remember what was going on a sharp pain courses through his head and the smell of coming cooking seems to making his stomach churn. Quickly he remembers what was going on and where he was.

Shaking his head he can't help but think about how much of an idiot he was. It was apparent though three of the five cats liked him. Laying back down and putting an arm over his eyes his hand comes to the cat that was next to him letting his fingers run through its fur. Did it really have to be morning? How much trouble was he going to be in when he got back to TJY? What did Ariel think of him now?

"Come on puss you gotta move. All of ya."

Shooing the cats down off of him Trey sits up holding his head still before standing and swaying again trying to regain his balance. He felt slightly drunk still but not nearly as bad as last night. Following the smells into the kitchen he stands in the doorway a moment just watching Ariel. Why...why did she care? The question still lingered in his mind.

"Do you have any aspirin?"

Tears

Ariel almost grabs the glass as Trey just about drops it, but relaxes when he sets it down before spilling it. Seeing him suddenly conk out, she sighs. "You'll be okay," she murmurs. "If you just let someone in... you'll be okay." She knew he'd had a rough life. And she knew that no one's life was easy. But if he'd just allow people to help him and be his friends... he'd still be okay no matter what trials were thrown his way. Ultimately, she prayed that one day he'd also let God in his life.

Finally standing, Ariel reaches to Trey and gently moves him so he's lying down. Picking up his feet, she takes off his shoes and tucks his legs on the couch too, giving a wry grin as she realized just how long his legs really were. Grabbing a nearby blanket, she spreads it over him before running her fingers through his hair. She knew he'd be dead to the world for the night. "Sleep well, Trey."

"Now what?"

Ariel looks up at Colt who had just come back to the living room. She shrugs. "He stays. He just passed out."

"He's going to feel lovely in the morning."

"No kidding."

Colt cocks his head. "Shall we sit in the kitchen so you can give me the whole story?"

Ariel sighs. "Yeah." Following him to the kitchen, she pours them both a glass of Mountain Dew before sitting down across from him at the table. "You get a hold of Pete?"

"Mm-hmm... He sounded ticked - apparently he'd been looking for Trey? Glad to know he was here though and I convinced him not to come."

For that, Ariel was grateful. She hadn't told Colt about Trey, just because it was supposed to be someone secret, as far as her role, and she didn't want her brother to worry about her either. Though they saw each other all the time, they did have separate lives. It wasn't always that they hung out or spent an evening together like today. When adding all that up, she was sure Colt was utterly confused now. He didn't know who Trey was, he had no idea why Pete or the Elite were involved, or why on earth Trey was drunk to begin with. He really had been patient. And Ariel gives him a weary smile. "Well, a while back, Pete called me..."

That night, Colt bunked down on the office floor, refusing to leave Ariel alone with Trey. She was just as glad - not scared, but feeling better that her big brother was there. Resting well, the next morning she rose first and started cooking a breakfast of scrambled eggs and sausage for anyone who wanted it.


Dylan hoped he was actually welcome in the barn. He hadn't felt up to going out there earlier but now...

"Yeah, okay..." He backs into his bunkhouse and grabs his socks and boots. Returning, he sits on the porch step he finishes up before standing again. "I'm... not sure what anybody will want be doing but... I'll go with ya." He shrugs. "Probably if my dad sees me, he'll put me to work cleaning stalls."


Mick looks up from his desk in the office where he'd been working with Rosetta on some finances. Having a heard a knock, he now sees Cindy waiting to be invited in. "Hey, Cindy." He smiles. "Come on in."

She accepts. Slowly. And steps inside, her eyes drifting from Mick to Rosetta and back again.

Mick tenses. She wasn't smiling back. Something wasn't right. "What is it? What's wrong?"

Cindy swallows hard. She'd dropped Kaylee off at Becky's without explaining why yet. She wanted to tell Mick first. And Rosetta there was okay too. "I, um... I needed to come tell you something."

Mick gives Rosetta a worried glance before he stands up and goes around to be closer to his sister-in-law. "Go on..."

Cindy can't look him in the eye. He looked too much like his brother. "Yesterday... last night... Someone came to see me. He was a military officer."

Mick's gut twists. "And?" he prompts.

"And..." Cindy takes a deep breath and finally has the strength to look up again. "There was an explosion, and... they're doing all they can - which probably isn't a whole lot... but, um... Wes is... missing in action."

Stunned silence. Mick's breath catches in his throat an he looks to his wife as if hoping she were still in the room lest he not be able to stand. Looking back to Cindy, he sees her eyes reflecting pure agony. And it hurts. "Oh, Cindy..." He hurt. His brother was missing in action. That meant he was more than likely dead. His brother. Their family had stuck together and survived through trial after trial... and Wes had been the first to fall. All that could run through Mick's mind was, "Dear God, why?"

Cindy grits her teeth, trying so hard to remain strong. "I'm sorry..."

She was sorry? Mick had probably lost a brother... but Cindy was losing her husband. And she looked like she was ready to fall apart. "Don't be..." Stepping closer, he pulls her into a strong hug - to offer her comfort, but to also hide the tear that ran down his cheek.

Cindy rests her head against his chest, but doesn't stay for long. She was grateful for Mick's comfort, but it wasn't his comfort she longed for. Pulling back, she gives him a little nod. "I'm going to go back home now if... if you don't mind telling the others."

"Of course not." Mick gives her shoulder a squeeze. "If you need anything... at all... you let us know, okay?"

She nods. "Thanks, Mick." Looking to Rosetta she musters up a small smile before retreating. It was obvious that she did not want to stay.

Mick stares at the closed door for several moments before retreating to his desk chair again. Bending forward with his elbows on his knees, he takes a deep breath, but it didn't matter - the tears were going to come anyway. Putting his face in his hands, his shoulders tremble.

Help

Siting on the couch with his head back Trey tilts it a little bit to look at a cat in the face than had been sniffing his hair. Rolling his eyes he was to tired from being drunk to bother shooing the car away. Not even realizing it though he's started to nod off.

As Ariel sits down Trey gives a little jump waking up. Looking to her and taking the water his gives a small nod before taking a sip. The liquid went down hard but he had to force it. If he could head off even a little of the hangover he as going to feeling in the morning than it was worth it.

"Thanks."

Looking around the room for a second Trey trys to get his eyes to focus. It was hard at the moment but he wanted to know about his surroundings. Taking everything in Trey sips the water again before looking to Ariel.

"You....have a nice place."

Would he remember in the morning he had a feeling he would. If he's remember how to get to her place that would be another story all together. Giving a yawn Trey can feel himself start to nod off again. Almost dumping the glass of water he wakes a moment and leans forward to putt the glass down on the table.

"I just...gotta rest a second than I'll leave."

Closing his eyes again and leaning his head back Trey was out like a light. The alcohol taking over and finally knocking him out.

Ashlee understood what Dylan was saying but she didn't really understand what it was like but the good thing was he was home now again and for that she was happy. She kept the smile held on her face. If just being happy he was back helped Dylan than that was good and it made her happy.

"Well I'll have to thank Dan too. But you made the choose to come back and thats great too."

She wasn't sure how things would be. How her mom would be, or Mick but she hoped they would let them be friends still. Dylan was an ok guy and she enjoyed spending what little time they did spend together again.

"Want to come to the barn with me? I have some work to do but I bet Eric wont mind if you come either."

Rock bottom

Glad that Trey had agreed to stay, Ariel hangs on to him so he won't fall. "I got plenty of water. Just come on in and I'll get you a nice tall glass, okay?"

Helping him inside, she aims him for the living room, her arm around him to keep him from stumbling into furniture.

Colt is pacing the living room, still holding the purring cat and he looks up in surprise as Ariel brings Trey in. He frowns and quirks one eyebrow in disapproval.

Ariel throws him a look that warned him to be still. Bringing Trey to the couch, she lets him ease down to sit. "I'll be right back - just sit tight." She heads quickly to the kitchen to pour a glass of water. Turning from the sink, she almost runs right into her brother. Gasping, she barely keeps from spilling the water. "What are you... please move."

Colt stands in her way. "Are you really sure about this? I mean, do you really think this is smart?"

Ariel sighs. "No. It's probably not. But he's my friend. It's a long story, Colt... but please trust me... And give Pete a call."

"Pete? What for?"

"Tell him Trey's here and convince him not to come."

"Are you kidding me?" Colt throws up his hands, forgetting he was still holding Baby and almost dumping her on the floor. "What are you gonna do? Let that guy spend the night?"

Ariel shrugs. "If he falls asleep, I'm not going to wake him up just to kick him out."

Colt scowls. "Then don't expect me to leave tonight."

Ariel smiles and pats his arm. "I thought you'd never offer." Sidling past him, she continues on her way to the living room.

Colt smirks and rolls his eyes, realizing that his sister had been planning for him to stay this whole time. Sighing, he heads for the hallway to make the phone call from Ariel's office.

Ariel eases down on the armrest of the couch and hands Trey the glass of water. "Here you go. How you feeling?"


Dylan knew that question would come, but it didn't make it any easier. His eyes fall and attach themselves to the porch. He shrugs. "I dunno..." That wasn't really true. But how was he supposed to explain it to Ashlee?

He shifts his weight and swallows hard. "I guess... um..."

He finally looks back up at her and takes a deep breath. She thought a lot of him... and if she knew the truth, all that might change. But he didn't want to lie to her either. If she decided not to be his friend anymore then... he'd just have to accept it.

"I was with some people that... weren't so great, ya know?" He shrugs again. "I guess Dan reminded me that it's not so bad here. I..."

Dylan stops, suddenly finding it very difficult to talk about this. Staring up at the sky for a moment, his jaw muscles help him work through his jumbled emotions. Finally glancing back at Ashlee, he shakes his head. "I haven't been in a very good place, Ash. And I've done some pretty stupid things." He bites his lip. "I... well, I suppose you've got Dan to thank for me still being here at all." It was true. He'd been so very close to ending it all. So close that it still scared him, and the look in his eye proved it. "I guess I came back because I hit rock bottom."

His eyes roam the area before landing back on Ashlee. What would she think of him a few days from now? When he would hate everything and everyone around him? When he would want nothing but to escape for one more dose? He'd gone through it before. He knew what was coming. What would she think of him then? His apprehensive gaze lingers.

"I'm not very far from that bottom now but... thanks for being glad I'm back. It, um... it helps."

Water

Stepping back and looking up at Dylan Ash still smiled. Her felt good seeing her friend again, even if she had changed a little bit now that he was here things would get better for him again.

"No not really. I've been working in the barn more helping, and my ankle still gives me some greaf but all in all nothing has changed much."

Leaning against the door frame Ashlee found the silenct a bit odd but she didn't want to draw to much attachen to it. Maybe it was just because Dylan had been gone a little that it made it strange.

"So why did you come back?"

Turning to look at Ariel again and search her face Trey wondered just how much truth to her words. It was hard to wrap his mind around anything right now but without the liqueur would it be worse? He didn't know.

Seeing Ariel give a shiver Trey relized it must be cold of. Being drunk made him warmer but it was easy to see she was not. Giving a nod he stands maybe if he stayed put Reese wouldn't come down on him to hard.

"I...I geuss I'll come inside...no....no coffee though."

Trey could feel his stomach churn at just the thought. Standing and swaying a little Trey could feel his eyes starting to getting heavy. He did need to drink some water though before he passed out he was going to have to have a killer head ach in the morning.

"Think I couldsh get a glassh of water?"

Sack out

Dylan had not expected a hug. At most, he'd thought Ashlee might just say hi, give him a look of disdain and ask him a bunch of questions. But a hug? He hadn't been prepared.

Caught off guard, he just stands lamely for a moment, unsure what to do as Ashlee buries her face against him. His eyes widen slightly but he manages to give a rather awkward hug in return. Sure they were friends but... well maybe he hadn't realized just how much Ashlee really did like him.

Pulling back a little, his hands rest on her shoulders for a couple seconds before they return to his pockets. "Um... thanks." He shakes his head. "You're not invading."

Falling silent again, he has no idea what to say. "So, um... anything new happen since I've been gone?"


Drawing back a couple inches to study Trey's face, Ariel gives him a crooked grin. She was flattered that he found her attractive, though she wondered if he'd feel the same once he was sobered up again.

His apology makes her sigh and she pats his back. "Well... I guess I'm kinda disappointed - not that you came, but that you went out and got yourself in this state. I... wish you would have come before getting that far." She looks him in the eye. "You do have friends, you know. Whether you believe it or not."


Inside the apartment, Colt quietly steps closer to the door to pick up a purring ball of gray tabby fur before she escaped outside. Slinging Baby over his shoulder he steps back again, making sure none of the other cats got any ideas either. He wasn't so sure he approved of whatever friend this was of his sister's, but he wouldn't interfere. Amazingly, it looked like she had things under control, and he had to respect her for that.


Ariel gives Trey another pat before standing up and offering him her hands. "Come on," she prompts. "I'm getting cold. If you wanna stay up I'll make some coffee, or you can sack out on the couch if you like."

Welcoming

As Dylan opens the door Ashlee can't help the big smile that spread across her face. Studying Dylan for a moment Ashlee takes in how thing he looked, how tired he looked and how the last month had taken its toll. Her heart ached a little bit. Putting that behind her though she can't help but reach out and put her arms around Dylan burying her face into his shirt.

"I'm so happy your back."

Just staying in the hug for a long moment Ashlee really did mean what she said. She was happy he was home, safe, and she was just happy. Though her time had been filled with other things she still had missed Dylan the most.

"Sorry, I didn't mean to invade your space I just...I'm really glad your back."

Beth thinks for a moment taking her coffee back into the living room and sitting. She was feeling slightly tired from the events of the day but wasn't ready to get off the phone just yet.

"Well it sounds like a plan to me. Tomorrow you cook and I'll pick the movie. I'll maybe even bring over the dessert."

She did think that sounded like fun and spending some time with Justin would be nice. She had only tried his cooking one and it was pretty good so she didn't mind trying it again.

Trey mumbles something that couldn't be made out. Maybe it was something to do with what Ariel said maybe not but the words were unable to be made out. Finally looking up into Ariel's eyes Trey's own were glazed over. He's had way to much to drink tonight and he new in the morning he was going to be sorry/

"Your afshly pretty you....know that."

He's had girls before, but there was just something about Ariel she was different and she just felt different around her. He didn't understand it just like he still didn't understand why she cared for him so much. All he new is he made himself look like an idiot tonight.

"I'm sorry I came....came here like this. I...truly am."

Nobody

Ariel sighs, keeping her arm around Trey and rubbing his shoulder gently. "Yeah... running away is usually easier." She cocks her head forward, trying to get a look at his face. "But I never figured you to be a coward who would run from a fight." She gives him an extra little squeeze.

"Don't worry about your curfew. I'll handle Pete myself."

Falling quiet for a moment, she mulls over everything Trey had been saying. She knew very little about his past. About his home life. About his lifestyle. She knew he was kept at TJY for protection because his family was involved in drug dealing - she could only assume he himself had been into all sorts of stuff. Her mind ran wild with thoughts of drugs, alcohol, girls... But she'd envisioned all of that ever since Pete had asked her to befriend Trey. And it had changed nothing. That first night at the beach when he'd put his arm around her... she'd seen not a criminal, but someone who had perhaps been misled yet still had a good heart underneath it all. He'd been let down... felt unloved... felt abandoned... It was a wonder he'd been as much of a gentleman with her as he had. She'd prepared for him to try and take advantage of her - but he'd never once made any kind of inappropriate moves. No... there was a good man under it all. And tonight... while some might just see a drunken bum, she was getting a glimpse of the real Trey.

"Not everybody will let you down." She speaks softly, her voice a soothing tone. "You've been wronged, no doubt." She wasn't sure by whom or how, but it was an obvious fact. "And I'm truly sorry for everything you've been through. It's no way to live."

She keeps rubbing his shoulder, just praying that he would stay and not try to leave again. "But eventually... eventually you have to stop running. If you keep on running, I'm going to be left behind and that would make me pretty sad. Whether you want to believe it or not, people around here do care about you. We all disappoint each other at some point, but that doesn't mean we care any less for you. We're just human and make mistakes. But that's why we say we're sorry and we forgive each other. When we do that, it just makes us stronger. It's the warrior's way of life, not the coward's." Would he even remember her words in the morning? She had her doubts.

Reaching over with her free hand, she wraps her fingers around his. "You're going to be alright, Trey... it's all going to be alright. You're safe here, okay? Nobody's gonna hurt you."

Big Trouble

Turning his head a little bit Trey just looks at Ariel for a moment. Trying to wrap his drunken mind around her words. He still didn't understand, she hardly new him, or the things that marked his past.

   "You...will just leave likke eveyone elsh. They shaid they all...all cared too but...but they alll left too."

Looking back down again Trey didn't know if be believed that or not. Everything was so mixed together he wasn't sure what to believe anymore.

   "Running awaysg is eashier than being a let down it having shome one else leave first."

Leaning into Ariel a little Trey just looked down at the ground. He could feel his eyes starting to get heavy but his mine was racing to much to sleep.

   "I'm in big trouble...its past my cerfew by..a lot."

Published with Blogger-droid v2.0.4

Because

Relief washes over Ariel as Trey accepts the invitation to sit. Probably the thing she feared the most was him trying to walk somewhere and stepping out in front of traffic, getting mugged or worse.

Guiding him back to the step, she makes sure he's safely seated before easing down next to him. A chilly breeze was in the air and she was in short sleeves, but she didn't pay any attention to that right now.

Trey's question broke Ariel's heart even more. He had no idea why someone would care. And she wasn't the only person that did, but he really didn't understand.

Giving him a small smile, she bends her head a little so she could see his eyes. "Because you're worth it," she answers. "Because there's a whole lot more to you than meets the eye. You like to hide it and you do a good job. But I've seen past it. And that's why I care."

Slipping an arm around his shoulders, she hugs him gently. "You've been hurt too much," she murmurs. "But you can't keep running away... I don't want you to run away."

So Much

As Ariel comes around and steps in front of him Trey stops short so he dosen't run into her hand he sways backward a little bit before catching himself. Feeling his hands in hers again they were so warm as his skin had grown slightly cold.

Did she just hear Ariel right that the guy in the room was her brother. Trying hard to think Trey can't help the swaying he was doing still. Hearing about sitting on the step he does give a nod though he'd better sit down before he fell down and than someone did call the police.

"I'll sit on the shtep.."

Keeping her hands in his it helped stedy him back to the stop as he sits down. He had potential, he was more...that seemed like a joke to him. Why did she try so hard. Looking up for a second twords the door and not seeing her brother Trey relaxed just a little bit.

"Whysh....Why didn you havsh to care so much?"

Please...

Ariel didn't know what was going through Trey's mind, but she hoped and silently prayed that something - anything she said would make sense to him in this messed up state. Seeing the tear roll down his cheek sends a new pain into her heart.

She lets him take her hand and doesn't pull away, just allowing him time for sorting through his inebriated thoughts. As he drops her hand and mentions Colt again though, she fears she's losing him.

"No, wait, Trey..."

Looking back over her shoulder, she throws Colt a desperate glance. He throws up his hands in response, frustrated with her. She turns back around and watches as Trey stumbles down the sidewalk.

Going after him, she catches up within a few steps and comes around in front of him to stop him. "Trey, please don't go." She reaches out and takes both his hands in hers. "You don't understand... That man in there is my brother. But if it still bothers you, can we sit on the step right here? Outside? Please just don't walk away." Her grip on his hands tighten gently. "I care about you. You're important and you have purpose." She searches his eyes desperately. "You're worth so much and you have so much potential. But not like this... not like this, Trey." She nods to the step by the door again. "Can we sit down and talk?"

Good Bye

As Ariel brings her hand to the side of Trey's face for a moment he cringes almost exspecting a slap but as her hand hand is placed gentil on his cheer he relaxes just a little bit. Looking back into her eyes he cocks his head slightly into her hand. His walls breaking a little more. He was drunk but is seemed this softness broke through. He was hurt still, and anger but for a moment her hand on his cheek, her soft fingers it put another crack. She wasn't angry with him for showing up here like this, another crack forms.

Bringing his free hand up to her arm and than following it up to his face Trey just lays his hand over hers. and for a moment his parents, the people he has lost, Cindy, Jason, Ariel, and Pete all flash through his mind. Closing his eyes for a moment a single tear rolls down his cheek.

Sucking in a breath to maintain composure the best he could in his state Trey opens them again. Moving Ariel's hand from his cheek he holds her hand his finger running over it for a long moment before Colt catches his eye again. Letting go of her hand he trys to stand up again.

"Not....not with your boyfriend here...he might...get mad...Goodbye Ariel."

Turning Trey steads himself before taking a few steps forward before stumbling a little. Now Trey had to try and find his way home. Not only were his eyes blurry from drinking but from that one darn tear too.

Begging

Ariel remains standing and doesn't move even when Trey leans in close. She keeps herself from cringing at the smell of alcohol and simply listens. His words weren't making any sense at all, proving just how much he'd been drinking. Yet it wasn't the words that Ariel listened to.

With each of his slurred words, her expression becomes more and more sorrowful. What she saw before her was the same hurt little boy she'd seen earlier today. Oh how hurt he looked. And it broke her heart. She knew this drunkenness was wrong. She knew his attitude had been wrong and choices he'd made were his own. He was at fault for many things. But that didn't mean he didn't deserve a chance. A chance at acceptance. A chance at love. Anyone's love.

"You're not a bad guy," she responds softly. "And you can trust that because I'm an awfully good judge of character."

Reaching up, she cradles the side of his face with her palm. "I don't want to lose you, Trey. Not like this. Won't you please come in? We can go sit in the kitchen and there won't be anybody else watching or listening, okay?" Her thumb caresses his cheek. "Please?"

Babble

Trey eye's Colt his anger still burning this guy putting his own two cent in where it didn't belong. He didn't know him, he new nothing about him how dare he judge him.

"Yeah...go...go...run alonsh."

Looking back to Ariel again he sways some more before putting his arm out to lean on the door frame to keep from toppling over. He wanted to come in, but he didn't want to come in with Colt there. Someone else knowing his business. Someone...it was clear that Ariel had a some kinds of relationship with.

"I don't believesh you. You....better tell him to stop..stop looking at mesh."

Trey licks his dry lips before leaning in a little closer to Ariel. His voice was a whisper this time like he was trying to keep it a secret and it was something of complete importance.

"I really...really liked you yoush know...But than....I bet you and Pete were laughsing at me. I wash tryin to..to stay out of trouble so I could keep...seeing you too....but I was a foolsh."

Looking into Ariel's eyes there was so much hurt and anger, there was a boy lost, scared, and alone. Tears that had been held back for years just begging to come out but the just wouldn't.

"I..." hic "wanted to kiss you for a while too...but I didsh...and...just becauseh I didn't talks to anyone....Reesesh and his lacklys think I'm a bad guysh. Maybe,.....maybe they sdhould be right."

Promise

Ariel shakes her head and heaves a weary sigh. She'd cried enough tears earlier that it was a little easier now to control her emotions. But the scene still bothers her - immensely. "Oh Trey..."

Colt rolls his eyes and looks down at Ariel. "Seriously?"

Her eyes narrow at him. "Long story, okay?" She looks back at Trey. "I haven't forgotten anybody, let alone you." She remains calm and speaks as though he were sober, even though she knew he wasn't thinking straight at all. "Please come inside."

Colt nudges her. "Are you nuts? We ought to call the cops, not invite this drunk in."

Ariel turns to him and points to the living room. "I got this. Go sit down and wait."

"But-"

"Please!"

Colt scowls but backs off and goes to sit on the armrest of the couch where he could at least still keep an eye on things.

Ariel looks to Trey once more and steps further to the side. "Please, Trey... I want to be here for you. Let me this time and come in so we can talk. I promise to listen to everything you have to say and no one will interfere."

Pretend

Still standing at the door Trey was now leaning on the railing slightly. Now being out in the fresh air it seemed like the liqueur was hitting him even more. Things were spinning enough that he had to give his head a little shake to straighten it all out. Maybe those last few shots with Sam was not a good idea.

Finally as the door open Trey stands up and sways a little bit before regaining his balance. A drunk grin spread across his lips as he was about to talk. Stopping though as he saw Ariel was not along the grin seemed to fade and whatever he was going to say slipped away.

Looking from the guy and taking in that it was obvious he had just gotten out of the shower Trey could feel everything in side churn, and it was almost instant that it felt like his heart was grabbed and squeezed all over again. Swinging his gase back to Ariel again he squints his eyes almost as if trying to keep the tears that so desperately wanted to come back in. He wouldn't let them show not now.

"Ho...hows shat? A news boyfriend...boyfriend alreadsh. I tolds....you it wouldn't...take long for forgeth me. You better watch out...she...likes to pretend to like people."

Trey sways a little more but dosnt enter the house. Not while this other guy was there, not while he was out numbered. He came for comfort but all he found was more pain.

Attacked

Justin perks up a little. "Yeah - both those sound great. I can't make you do all the work for supper again though, so either I cook or we go out."

Sitting up again, he stares at his rack of DVDs. "But you get to pick the movie. Anything you want."


Hearing the knock at the door and Ashlee's voice, Dylan jumps. Muttering a curse under his breath, he clears the contents on his nightstand into the drawer, shoving it closed. "Yeah, hang on," he calls.

Sliding off the bed, he tucks in his white t-shirt and rolls down the sleeve of his open flannel shirt. It would probably be a little warm for it today, but he'd rather not risk someone noticing the marks and putting two and two together. In the back of his mind, he knew it was stupid to try and hide his renewed addiction, but shame wouldn't allow him to expose the truth yet.

Padding to the door in his bare feet, he pauses for a moment, glancing over to the mirror on the opposite wall. Though having showered and put on clean clothes, he knew good and well that he did not look the same as he had when he'd left. Would Ashlee notice? He wondered. What did she want anyway? Who knew what she'd been told about him? Did Stacy even want her seeing him? What did Ashlee think of him now?

He sighs. There was no point in putting this off.

Finally opening the door partway, he leans against the doorframe, tucking his hands in his jeans pockets. Dan had said Ashlee had missed him - was it true? He had to admit, he'd kind of missed her hanging around and wanting to do things with him.

He bites his lower lip, searching the girl's face. His own expression was hesitant. "Hi."


Mick looks at Dan's hand for a moment before reaching out to accept it in a strong handshake. His free hand gives the younger man's shoulder a firm pat. There was nothing else that needed to be said. "Now lets get back to work before someone thinks we're shirking our duties."


"Ack!!"

Sitting on the couch in the small living room, Ariel jumps from Colt's cry coming from the bathroom. "What is it?" she shouts. "What's wrong?!"

"I told you Slinky hates me!"

Ariel stifles a laugh. "Well why did you let him in there with you?"

"I didn't know he was here! Stupid cat attacked me!"

Ariel can't keep her laughter in now and she flops back onto the cushions, hugging a throw pillow.

"I heard that!"

She calms to a giggle. "Well, are you alright?"

"Fine, fine. My big toe may never be the same again though."

"There's bandaids in the cabinet." Ariel grins and reaches up to scratch Cinder's chin. Her five cats certainly made life interesting. "See?" she calls. "Now you know why I moved out - so I could live in peace with my furry friends."

"Yeah, well I think you've just taught them to have it out for me." Colt emerges from the bathroom in his clean jeans and t-shirt, his hair still glistening wet.

Ariel sits up and peers over the back of the couch, her eyes twinkling. "Maybe. But you're the one that begged to come use my shower."

"I can't help it that they're fixing the plumbing at my place." Colt flops down beside her on the couch and reaches to pull on his socks.

"Mmm. I wouldn't have wanted you to go another day without a shower." Ariel scrunches up her nose. "You do smell better now than you did at supper."

Colt smirks and runs a hand through his hair then flicks the drops of water in her direction.

She shrieks playfully and swats him with a throw pillow.

Colt is about to retaliate when the sudden banging on the door and shouting ceases the playing.

Ariel's eyes widen. "That sounds like Trey."

"Trey? Who's Trey?"

Her cheeks flush.

Colt lifts an eyebrow. "The guy."

Ariel stands up without answering him and goes to the door. Unlocking it, she opens it cautiously. One glance at Trey and she knew he was in poor shape. She didn't know whether to be sad, mad or scared. The sudden presence of Colt's hand on her shoulder calms her, though.

She furrows her brow at Trey, not understanding why he was here or what he wanted to talk about. But if it had anything to do with earlier, she didn't want to turn him away. She steps back, opening up the door wider. "Come in, Trey. I'm here to talk about whatever you want."

Drunk

Pouring the finished coffee into a cup Beth pursed her lips for a second as she was quiet. Justin was still acting a little strange is it made her worry a little bit. Maybe it was just a bad day but Beth wasn't use to seeing that form Justin and she wasn't sure how she felt about it at all.

As the conversation changes Beth lets out a small breath not enough to bring notice to but just something she had been holding in. She was happy for the change and hopped maybe Justin's mood would be a little better.

"Don't have anything planned of yet. Would you like to make plans? Maybe we can do dinner and a move or something."

Looking up as Mick enters the barn Dan was a bit surprised when he tells him he wants to talk. Not saying anything though he just follows Mick into the tack room. Standing he just listens as Mick talks his eyes never leaving his.

Giving a nod of his head here and there to let Mick know he was listening some of what he said surprised him but in hearing everything it made him understand a little bit better. It filled a gap and gave Dan a better understanding on the whole situation. Once Mick was done Dan takes of his gloves he lets out a small breath moving his hat back a little bit and looking up at Mick in the eye again.

"Thank you Mick!"

Simple words but they meant a lot. Holding out his hand to Mick for a handshake he new nothing else really needed to be said. This would speak louder than words and mean so much more. And Dan really was thankful for Mick's words.

Finishing up with breakfest and hearing Dylan was back Ashlee makes her way across the yard and to his bunk. She was going to help Eric again today but not till a little bit later. Now though she could see her friend she really had missed. She only hopped he was in his bunk. Getting up the steps she gives a knock on the door waiting a few moments before knocking again.

"Dylan? It's Ash are you in there?"

Leaving the bar Trey leans on the building trying to gain his balance. He'd come here tonight to forget but this time it hadn't worked. Being intoxicated only made it worse this time around and Ariel was the one on his mind. His anger, his sarrow, he wanted to see her he didn't want to see her it was all a mess.

Hearing the bar door open again Trey still leans on the wall but turns twords the door as a taller more bawd man leave. Giving a nod Trey pushes off the wall and holds out his hand.

"Whos new meeting yoursh at the beachs...." hic "...I'd see you heresh too Samsh."

Sam raises and eyebrow and shakes his head. He didn't know Trey was going to be here tonight but as soon as he saw him Trey had come right over starting to babble about something he didn't even understand. It was clear he'd been drinking before he had even got there.

"Yeah...so...you still wanted that ride to Ariel's or are you going to walk since its not far from here?"

Trey lays a hand on his shoulder and gives a strange kind of smile.

"I'll...walk. It might not besh pretty. Shanks Shammy."

Turning around and staggering Trey walks down the sidewalk in the direction he though he remembered was the way to Ariel's. He didn't know why he wanted to go there, maybe to yell some more, maybe he didn't want to be alone anymore.

..Going slightly slower because he was drunk and hardly could stand up Trey squints looking at the apartment he was directed too making sure this was the right place. Going up to the door and giving it a bang Trey shouts at the same time.

"Ariels....ARIEL...open the door woshda. I ju....I...I ju...wanna talks..."

Supper

"No... no, he still has no memories." Justin falls silent for another moment or two, suddenly feeling very much that he didn't want to talk any more about this. He didn't like the questions. He didn't want to think about Jared any more today. But why it made him overly sensitive towards Beth was a mystery to him, which put him even more on edge.

"I guess I'm not confident, no," he concludes. Flopping back onto a throw pillow again, he withholds a sigh. "So you got any plans for the weekend?" Changing the subject yet again, he gropes for something that wouldn't touch any more of his nerves today.


"So... who's the guy?"

Ariel spins around to see the look of protective question on Colt's face. Studying him for a moment, she turns back to Jasper, combing out the gelding's mane after she'd given him a bath. The stable was her haven, so that's where she'd headed, trying to clear her mind of Trey. So much for that now. She wouldn't lead on that she was upset though. Nobody knew she'd spent the drive out here crying, and she'd like to keep it that way. "Who said there was a guy?"

"Word gets around about beach parties." Colt comes up on the other side of the horse to lean on Jasper's back, looking over at Ariel. "So? Better looking than me?"

Ariel smirks at him. "Maybe."

"You're cruel."

"I learned from the best." Her eyes flicker with a mixture of annoyance and humor. "Shouldn't you be out in the far pasture checking fences or something?"

Colt's mouth turns up into a smile. "Trying to get rid of me?"

"I thought I already did that."

"Oooh. Ouch." Colt feigns a stab to the heart. "And I was going to ask you out to dinner tonight and everything."

"You must be getting desperate."

"Yeah, well, you know how it goes. Wait, no... apparently you don't." He eyes her suspiciously. "So who is he?"

"It's none of your business, Nosy. And besides - it's over anyway."

"Aw, well that sucks."

Ariel reaches across and swats his arm with the horse comb. "Be gone!"

"Hey, watch where you whack that thing!" Colt moves around and takes Jasper's head in his hands, looking the horse in the eye. "Buck her off next time she rides you."

Ariel rolls her eyes. "As if. He wouldn't buck if you promised him sweet feed for life."

"It was worth a shot." Colt sighs and ambles away. "I got chores to do. See you later."

Ariel looks up and sighs, shaking her head. "Colt... I'll do supper with you."

Colt looks over his shoulder as he smiles. "I'll swing by your place after I'm done here tonight."

Concentrating on Jasper again, Ariel calls after Colt. "You still need to find yourself a new girl!"

"Yeah, yeah." He waves with his back to her as he continues his route to the stall he'd been cleaning.

Ariel smirks and whispers to her horse. "He'll never admit that he misses me. But you and I both know it's true." Though her mind still swam with questions about Trey, maybe supper out would help clear her head.


The morning dawned bright and clear. By breakfast, word had spread that Dylan was back at the ranch, though he hadn't shown up for the morning meal. It was difficult for those who had been worried to not go to him, but they all knew it was best to leave him be and let him come out in his own time.

Chores continued throughout the morning, everyone busy with their own tasks. It wasn't until close to noon that Mick takes a short break from his work...

"Dan?" Mick finds him in the barn and motions him towards the tack room. He hadn't spoken to him since yesterday, but it was time. "A word, please."

Entering the small room, he waits for Dan then shuts the door so they're completely alone. Folding his arms, he just studies the younger man for several moments. "I got some things I wanna say and... it's gonna take a few minutes, but all I ask is that you just listen." He really did have a lot to say and wasn't all sure how to say it so that it came out how he wanted.

"It's no secret that I've had it out for you from day one." He wasn't teasing, but wasn't being harsh either, and he continues to look Dan square in the eye. "I've been hard on you - especially since you and Jade started to date." The information wasn't new, but he felt the need to draw it all together so it could finally be concluded.

"I saw your potential but was disappointed in your past. When you got involved with Jade, I didn't trust you. I saw your heart and your dedication to God but there was still a lot about you that scared me."

Pausing a moment, he paces in a small circle to collect his thoughts. "I was asked why I didn't approve of you or like you, but the issue never was that I didn't like you - I've always liked you a lot. You've been a hard worker and have never let me down as one of my ranch hands. The truth of the matter is that I never was quite sure why I had a problem with you. I thought maybe it was your past. I thought maybe it was just a clash of personalities. I thought maybe it was just because you were the first guy who got serious with Jade." He shrugs. "But if I'm going to be completely honest, then I have to admit that I didn't know the real reason, and I wasn't willing to think about it - until last night."

Taking another moment, he purses his lips. It was obvious that he was in very deep thought. "When Dylan said you brought him home, I suddenly realized that I haven't truly been looking at you for yourself. I've been looking at another young man named Logan Philips. Quite honestly, that realization hit me pretty hard and I feel stupid for not seeing it sooner. I guess I just wasn't willing to take the time and figure out my own feelings."

Mick cocks his head, hoping that Dan was following his train of thought. "Logan was a guy I worked with when I was, unknowingly, working for the Agency there for a few years. He had a lot of potential and I really liked him. I helped him climb the ladder and got him to where we'd partner up every once in a while for cases. He was good. Then one day we had a mission that went bad - because he dropped the ball. He folded and let us all down. I realized that while he did have potential, that I'd overlooked his weaknesses - and it cost us two lives that day. He wasn't who I'd thought he was."

He swallows hard, not liking the memory that he'd tried hard to forget. "They say we all have twins in this world - and I've suddenly realized that you could easily be Logan's. The way you look, the way you walk, the way you talk... everything. And without even realizing it, since you started here, I saw Logan, and I knew I couldn't trust you. I was waiting for that day when you'd fold and let us down and I was afraid of what it would be - something with the horses... breaking Jade's heart... anything. And..."

He stops again and takes a deep breath. "I'm sorry. I'm sorry that I never gave you a fair chance. While I didn't understand what I was feeling, that doesn't make it right, and it's my fault for not allowing myself to see you as you and not someone else. When you brought Dylan home... I suddenly realized that while we all do fail sometimes and let others down once in a while... the big fall I was looking for... it simply didn't exist. And that's the difference between you and Logan. He had a cocky streak that wound up being his downfall. That's what you don't have. And I realize now that... I can trust you a lot more than I have been."

Mick studies Dan's eyes, as if truly seeing him as a different man for the first time. "A month ago, I was pretty upset that you let Dylan walk away from here. I didn't agree with you and... there was a part of me that blamed you for not stopping him."

A wry sort of grin surfaces. "They say you can't teach old dogs new tricks but... I'm a pretty old dog and... I just learned something new. I learned that my own past experiences sometimes do get in the way and I can't see the real truth. Because the reality is that you're a good man. You've stuck it out here, you've respected me despite our differences, you've been a hard worker and... you've looked out for my son."

It takes another short pause for Mick to take control of his emotions. "I blamed you for letting Dylan go... but if it wasn't for you, he wouldn't be back now either. And... I need to thank you for that. I couldn't bring him back on my own. I couldn't rescue him. But you did. And I'll always be grateful for that."

Glancing at the floor then back up again, a new look was in Mick's eyes. It was a look of a father's love for both of his children. It was a look of defeat. A recognition that he needed to let go. "You've proven to me that first, you're more than I gave you credit for. And second, you're a man of God and a man of integrity. And as such..." He takes another deep breath. "...I have no right to keep you and Jade from getting married whenever you want." Emotions pool in his eyes. "Maybe last night was about you rescuing Dylan... maybe it was about me learning a lesson... but because of those, I can no longer feel right about standing in your way. Just promise me you'll take care of Jade, respect her, and be as godly a husband as you can be...and you both have my blessing. It's you I see now - not the failings of a man from my past."