Maybe

Victoria had been home for a few hours now. Once cleaned, and dressed in another dress Victoria exits the house and walks down one of the garden paths. The last two days had been long and her mind continued to take her back here but she had gotten her job done and in the morning she could report to her grandfather her findings.  First though...there was someone else she wanted to see and if only for a moment she just wanted to be close to him.

Getting to there secret place Victoria gives a smile seeing Garret. Something told her he would be here and she was glad she was right. Coming up behind him she new he would hear her so she had no fear of startling him. 

   "It's good to see you up and around Garret. I was hoping they took good care of you while I was gone."

Laying her hand gently on his arm she gives a smile looking up at him. She really had been worried not knowing what was going on. Even if she could turn it on and off when she had to that didn't mean she didn't care. It was just at times she couldn't let her feels get in the way of work and when she felt sick she just had to bury it, least she be the one buried.

   "It's always nice to get away from this place, but as long as your hear its nice to come back too."

Watching Hunter walk away Katie couldn't help but feel bad. She didn't want him to think she thought it wasn't ok or that he was wrong for asking at all. She just thought maybe now was not the best time so she should pass. It hurt though that she had to turn down her friend.

   "If I really hadn't of wanted to go with you to lunch Jason I wouldn't have said yes."

Looking to Jason Katie tried to give him a smile. She was still upset with him over the whole thing the other day but she was doing her best and thats what mattered right? She just wanted things to be ok, she wanted Jason to understand...but maybe he never.

   "A nice lunch...huh? What time do you want to head out?"

Katie did love Jason even after there fight, and a nice lunch would be nice even if she was mad. Maybe a nice lunch would be the right track, maybe...maybe...it seemed to a word Katie was saying alot lately. Maybe she just had to get over it.

Pacing

Hunter holds a wry grin and nods, knowing that if he argued, he'd be in hot water. "Yeah, okay." His eyes move to the side, seeing a rather tense look on Jason's face. He clears his throat and looks back to Katie. "Maybe dinner's not such a good idea, eh?" His grin turns into a smile. "But I got my phone on me. Take it easy." Waving, he turns to leave without giving the chance of any further awkwardness. 

Watching him leave, Jason knew the other man had taken the hint. He didn't mind that Katie was friends with him - having friends wasn't anything that Jason would ever mind. But even know she'd suggested dinner again, and that made him bristle. Perhaps now though, Hunter would know better. 

Looking back down at Katie, he gives her a sorry kind of smile. "Thanks... for saying yes. I, um..." He bites his lip and leans on the top of the cubicle wall. "I'm sorry I've avoided you the last few days... I was just hoping we could have a nice lunch and..." He shrugs. "Just if you really want to though." 

Watching Victoria leave, Garret knew better than to wave. She was a business associate - nothing more. Anything else witnessed and that would be the end of their relationship. 

His eyes follow the car as it leaves, wondering about where she was going and why. All she'd said was that it was a mission - it was all she was allowed to tell. If he'd been well, he would know the details. But Medridge never let anybody work when they were weak, because they weren't at the top of their game. Garret knew the car was probably headed to the airstrip. Medridge's vehicle of choice was his private jet - no matter where he sent his agents. There were times Garret wondered if an hour trip in the air was actually just to a location nearby... but nobody ever knew. The only thing Garret knew was that they were in Europe. When going to the United States, he'd been taken to the airport and from there, he knew where he was. But other than that, he was just as much in the dark as everybody else. 

Sighing, Garret turns and puts his hand to his side as he walks slowly back inside. It would only be a few days until Victoria returned. But a lot can happen in a short amount of time. Determined to get back into the swing of things Garret insisted he was fine, able to once more be at Medridge's side. Agents came and went and Medridge remained busy with planning, contacting field agents and more. Garret involved himself with planning future missions and also continued working with Medridge on finding their leak. And once a small piece of evidence finally came in, the truth was found out....

...Garret paces the small grove in the dark, his mind reeling more than it had in a long time. Victoria was back. At least she was supposed to be today. He had yet to see her, but he'd opted to come to their hiding place in case she wanted to see him. He needed to talk to her before she talked to anyone else. He didn't want to. But he needed to. He didn't want to be the one to inform her of what had been happening and what they'd found. But he knew it should be him instead of somebody else. So he continues to wait... and continues to pace in nervousness.

Awkward

Finished packing her bag Victoria looked around her small room making sure she had everything. Today she wore dress pants, and a nice shirt. No gun was found on her for today if found out with it there could be trouble. A knife though was nicely placed in her boot so if there was trouble she could defend herself. She was only leaving for two days but this two days would seem almost like forever. She new what she had to do and even if she hated it, she had to least anyone think she was the leak.

 Picking up her bag and heading out Victoria lets out a small sigh. She really hadn't told anyone she was leaving other than a short meeting with Garret. She always hated leaving him and in his state now she hated it more. At least he was up and moving around slightly.

Stepping outside and heading to the black car that awaited for her Victoria stops feeling someones eyes on her. Looking back twords the house she see Garret looking down from above. She had wanted to say goodbye and now she wanted to give a wave but it just wasn't possible with the eyes on them. Giving a nod was all she could do and she new Garret would know what she was feeling. 

Taking the sun glasses from the top of her head she puts them on and gets into the car. It would take a little bit to get to the destination and that would give her time to collect herself and get into work mode. She had to pull this off and see if they could figure out what had went on. To many things had been left unanswered from the night of the part and it made her uneasy. But worst of all was the sick feeling on who she new, she would have to get the information.

Taking a bit of her sandwich Beth leans against the tree next to Justin. It was a nice day out today, great weather for there picnic and fishing. Beth was happy she'd come it was always a nice time with Justin. Without even knowing it he just had a way of making her feel good.

   "You are welcome Justin. Thank you for inviting me."

 Busy with her work today Katie really hadn't noticed much. Since the fight with Jason the other day she hadn't talked to him much or anyone else for that matter. She just didn't feel in the mood and didn't want to say the wrong thing. So to save the trouble she just stayed quiet and dug herself deep into her work.

Hearing the knock and Jason's voice Katie looks up a bit surprised to see Hunter standing there with Jason. She wasn't sure what to think seeing Jason standing there with Hunter. In a way it was kind of awkward after they had, had there last fight.

   "Lunch...I..."

About to deny Hunter's invitation due to lots of work Katie stops and Jason chimes in and says they are going to lunch together. Raising an eyebrow Katie was taken back again. They had no planes let alone hardly talked to each other the last few days and now out of the blue Jason wanted to do lunch! Would he had still asked if Hunter hadn't been right there?

   "Sorry Hunter I'm not going to be able to lunch today. Jason and I had, had plans already. I'll text you later and maybe we can get together with some people or something and do dinner or something. Thanks for the offer though, and the surprise visit. It was a nice break up to the day."

Looking between Jason and Hunter Katie's eyes were still a little sad. The fight had done a number on her, and had caused her to feel quite low about having a friend. She still didn't know how Jason could not understand. She could only hope there lunch today would be better than the other day.

Mission

"Oh yes, don't you worry. Your help is indeed needed." Medridge nods. "I may send you to Harkins on an intel mission." 

An intel mission. That's what Medridge called it when he sent his agent in to extract information the easy way. Or to put it bluntly, seduce the target to make their tongues loose. If he wanted the target tortured, it would be a pressure mission. But apparently Medridge wanted Harkins to talk without having his throat slit. 

"In the meantime though..." Medridge continues to pace. "The estate is on lockdown. No one in or out until I am sure there is no leak, or we have found the traitor." 

Reaching to his desk, he picks up a filing folder and hands it to Victoria. "This is the file on Harkins. He is a wealthy businessman from the United States who now lives in Switzerland. With the connections he has in the State with politics and financial institutions... he could prove to be of value to us. Study his file. You may or may not need it." 

...A week later, the lockdown at the estate was over. Not because they had found anyone though - at least not that anyone would say. There were quiet suspicions that Medridge had found the leak, but for some reason nothing yet had been said. As far as Harkins went, Medridge had scheduled Victoria's "intel mission," sending her to Harkins' place in Switzerland for a 2-day visit, hoping to gain as much information as possible about his contacts, and, to find out if Harkins had known the assailant at the party...

Garret leans on the railing of the balcony and looks out over the estate. He was feeling better every day and had finally been allowed to get up and dressed and take a walk. A couple more days and he'd be back to work. For now though, the room's balcony was as far as he'd wandered. He had been ill-informed about the party's incident and was itching to talk to Medridge himself about the whole thing. All he knew now was that Victoria was scheduled to leave on some kind of short mission in a few days, and he was feeling left behind. 

Justin laughs again and nods. "Okay. Lunch sounds good." Getting up, he helps Beth retrieve the little cooler and drinks, and finds a spot under a nearby tree for some shade. It isn't long before he's leaned back against the tree and chewing his sandwich thoughtfully. 

Looking to the side at Beth, he gives just a little sigh. He really did feel like an idiot. First for waiting so long, then for things he wanted to say not coming out right. He knew now his feelings were true though. He had just been too scared to admit it. And now... would she choose Zach? He would still be her friend no matter what but... it would hurt, and the only one to blame would be himself.

Shifting his eyes back to the pond he watches the dogs try to catch a frog. "Kinda hot today but not too bad," he muses. "Thanks for coming along."

Hunter pulls into the Elite parking lot, taking note that Katie's car was here. He should have called but... maybe he just wanted to see if she'd hang out if he showed up. She had to have a lunch break sometime today, right? And it was close to noon.

This morning had been a rough one, mentally. Hunter had seen Kyle from a distance at the grocery store and it hadn't done much good for his emotions. Not that he cared... but... he did... maybe. Regardless, he had no idea why he had then thought about having lunch with Katie. Or maybe he did. Maybe he knew what a good distraction she was from his problems. Or sounding board. Or both. Maybe.

Killing the engine, he parks his bike and removes his helmet. It was a bit strange being here - where he'd been arrested and held. Yet his overconfidence convinced him that he was just fine walking in here.

Entering the building was too easy, and he knew there most be cameras or something to keep an eye on who was coming and going. Going down a level and getting to the main floor, his eyes scan the cubicles. Come to think of it, he wasn't sure where Katie was supposed to be.

Wandering forward, he nods to a few people who look at him, as if he belonged there.

Jason comes out from the hallway, eyes down on some paperwork that he needed to take to Katie. Another day had passed without much spoken between them, and he knew he needed to make things right, even if he used paperwork as an excuse to go to her cubicle. Not paying enough attention, he just about runs into somebody, but is able to stop short. "Whoa. Sorry."

"No problem." Hunter shakes his head. "I wasn't paying much attention myself."

Jason cocks his head, wondering who this guy was. "Can I help you?"

"Uh, yeah, maybe. I'm looking for Katie."

"Katie?" Jason's eyes narrow slightly. "And you are...?"

"Hunter Maxwell." He grins. "You guys have a file on me, I'm sure."

Jason blinks. This was Hunter? This was the Hunter that Kyle had told him about before? And now Katie's newest friend? Interesting. Jason keeps ill feelings in check and offers his hand. "I'm Jason."

Hunter's eyebrows rise. Of all people for him to run into. This was rather interesting. He accepts the handshake though. "Katie's famous boyfriend."

"Famous?"

"Well, to her." Hunter grins.

"Mm." Jason didn't know if that was a compliment or not. "Come on. I'll take you to her desk." Leading the way, he heads to Katie's cubicle, knocking on the wall. "Hey. This paperwork's for you and... you've got a visitor."

Hunter smiles and leans on the wall. "Looks like my lack of calling first may have bit me in the butt. I was gonna see if you wanted to do lunch but..." He eyes Jason then Katie again. "I don't want to intrude." Or get his brains beat out for asking Katie to lunch with her boyfriend standing two feet away.

Jason swallows hard. He and Katie had no plans. As as matter of fact, they'd had no plans since their argument two days ago. His eyes wander toher , wondering what she would say. He recalled his conversation with Con yesterday. "Actually... Katie and I are going out to lunch." Though he spoke to Hunter, his eyes move to Katie. "That is, if she's going to say yes to me."

Hunter quirks an eyebrow and straightens, unsure about the strange tension he felt. He really did need to work on his timing.

Help

Looking back at her grandfather Victoria face still remained without emotion. She wondered who Harkens really was and why someone would of been after him. Her grandfather said he would be a nice addition, but why?

   "Who was Harkens?"

A trader sounded about right for this situation but who would dare? Inside there own home, so close to Medridge? Who had the gut for that.  They always checked there people, double checked them and made sure they were clean. Even the ones they held close did not get special treatment. It made little sense but so much at the same time.

   "If you need help with the investigation let me know. I can help."

Laughing and shaking her head again she couldn't help but find the humor in the whole thing. Just seeing Justin standing there fishing pole in hand dripping wet it was almost like Beth could see the little kid in him wanting to just let go, be silly, and have fun. That made her smile even a little more.

   "Sleeping it wet clothing will make you a prune and don't worry my lips are sealed. Though I don't know about the dogs they might slip."

Sitting up again and shaking her head Beth new she was being silly but it felt good and she new Justin wouldn't mind at all. Having a little harmless fun was not a big deal.

   "How about we eat while you dry and the fish calm down?"

 

Traitor

Though Medridge greets Victoria with a returned kiss to the cheek, he only grunts a reply to her question. Pacing around behind his desk, he taps his cane on the floor as he thinks. "No... no luck yet. But I believe it was Harkins the shooter was after. He would have been a nice addition to our... establishment." 

Shaking his head, a look of disgust crosses his face. "It's bothering me too, and I think Dirk is right. I think we have a traitor in our midst." 

He studies Victoria for a moment, his eyes seeming to pierce into her soul. "Be wary, Granddaughter. Without knowing, even these halls are dangerous. Those closest to us may not be trusted." 

Garret lay in bed, staring at the ceiling. His side throbbed, his head hurt and he felt hot all over. But his mind was still at work. What had happened last night? Why? Had it been a ploy? Distraction? Attempted murder? But why here? Why now? To whose benefit? These were all things he'd like to know so he could better do his job and remain on top of things. 

"Aw, cut it out," he growls at a nurse as she mops his forehead. 

"You're burning up," she chides. "We need to cool you down." 

"Then how about a cold bath instead of you flitting about every moment?" 

"I'm following orders."

"Aren't we all..." Garret grimaces as she checks his bandages. All he wanted right now was to get out of here. 

Justin smirks and looks down at his wet self. "Yeah... you could be right. But this is my favorite rod and reel." Which was now also dripping  wet. 

Trudging up out of the water, he flops down in the grass on his back and squints up at the sun. "Gonna have to wait for the fish to calm down now," he muses. "A nap sounds alright though. Not that I like relaxing in wet clothes." 

Giving Beth a sidelong glance, he grins then starts to laugh. "You better not tell anybody about this."

Who?

Victoria gives a smile to Garret as she runs her hand down the side of his face. She new why Garret has stepped infront of the gun he didn't have to tell her. It was not for anyone but her that he did it. And she was honored to know he would do whatever it took to save her from anything.

   "Maybe you'd make a good body guard after all for me."

Taking Garret's hand and giving it another kiss Victoria new she time had come to an end. The rest if the house would be waking soon and she could not be caught here. Though she wanted to stay she just couldn't.

Standing and taking the cloth from Garrets for head Victoria puts it back from where he got it and returns to his side. Leaning down and giving him a kiss she whispers softly.

   "Get some rest and I'll be back when I can."

...It was house later after the house had come alive, servants where coming back and forth cleaning, cooking, taking care of minor things. Agency where everywhere and Victoria could only guess it was due to what happened last night.

Entering her grandfather's office Victoria gives a small smile as she walks over to him. Giving him a kiss on one side and a kiss on the other. It was her formal greeting she had always been instructed to do when seeing him no matter who was or wasn't around.

   "Any luck yet on finding out who was responsible for last night? I want to know who is at fault for not checking the guests good enough for guns."

Victoria looks at her grandfather from across the table. Her eyes lacked much emotions and a look that she was rather annoyed. She really didn't understand how this had happened. They were always so careful when holding something like this...but this time it had backfired.

   "I keep wondering if the shooter had been after me or Harkens. I don't know why but its just...bothering me."

As Justin goes jumping into the water after his pole Beth's eyes widen. She new he loved fishing but she had no idea that he was that into his stuff that he would jump into the water after it. Seeing him pop out of the water she can't help but give a laugh and shake her head at him.

   "Really? You might have got your pole but I don't think your going to get anymore fish for the rest of the day."

Shaking her head again Beth leans back on her arms and just watches him with amusement. It really was funny watching him struggle in the water pole and all. Why she didn't know it just was a funny sight to watch. 

Mighty Splash

Despite feeling so lethargic, somewhere in his mind, Garret knew the truth of Victoria's words. Spoken discontent of any kind could just be asking for a death sentence. Not that he'd mind right about now. He felt like crap. He'd been shot before. Usually while out on cases though. And usually just in an arm or leg - nothing too serious. The last time he'd been shot, he tied his own bandage around his arm, finished the mission and didn't get the sewed up until the next day. Tonight though... tonight he could tell he'd be out of commission for a little while. Which could be good or bad. And yet... despite the severity of his wound... there were other factors that made this so much more uncomfortable. He wanted more than a cool drink of water, and he blamed Medridge. But Victoria was unaware - as Garret preferred, so he wouldn't lead on.

With Victoria's help, he manages several long swallows of water and nods his content. "Thank you..." Resting his head back into his pillow, he gives her a glazed kind of stare. "I'm glad you're okay. I coulda... coulda cared less about that Harkins guy."

Sighing slowly, it hurts and he shakes his head. "Stupid though... We must have a leak somewhere, and it isn't me." Finding Victoria's hand with his once more, he just holds it for a moment, taking advantage of these few minutes alone. "Ask... Medridge. I couldn't tell if..." He pauses to cough again. "...if the guy was after Harkins or... or you."

Flipping open his phone again, Hunter reads Katie's last message and opts not to reply. Maybe she had just needed to vent a little bit. He'd leave any further action in her hands. 

Tucking away his phone, he sips his beer, opting to stay here a little while longer. He only lived three blocks from Micky's Bar, and he'd walked, knowing that by the time he left, he should probably not be driving. He didn't want to get too drunk... he was just bored and wanted to take off the edge enough that when he got home, he could sleep instead of sitting around and thinking about things he'd rather not.

Finally letting Beth go, Justin follows her gaze to the water. He had certainly not planned on this conversation today. On the contrary, he'd still been withholding any hints in that direction. But... having her talk about Zach... and thinking about what his mother had said the other day... If there was anybody he could take a chance on, it was Beth. Perhaps it really was time he trusted someone with his heart again. And maybe down the road they'd discover they were meant for something else. Maybe Beth would go out with Zach next week and decide to continue dating him. Justin didn't know. But while he felt a bit silly and a bit awkward now that he'd said what he had... he wasn't sorry. Surprisingly, it felt somewhat like a relief. Like this had been on the tip of his tongue for too long and he'd finally admitted that he felt more for Beth than he'd let on. 

Glancing to her out of the corner of his eye, he can't help a grin. She'd come so far. They had come so far. He suddenly feels the urge to lean a little closer, but he resists. He'd withhold any affection until she'd decided, and he didn't want to pressure her one way or the other. It was her choice, and he respected that. 

A clattering sound turns his eyes to where his one fishing pole a ways away still had a line in the water. He'd forgotten all about setting it up earlier The bobber had gone under, and the pole was being dragged through the grass. Justin's eyes widen and he jumps up to sprint the short distance. "No... no, no!" 

Seeing the rod go into the water and then the reel, Justin dives head first. And with a mighty splash, most likely every fish in this area was scared away. 

Coming up spitting and sputtering in the knee-deep water, Justin holds up his fishing pole. He'd saved it. However... he was now wet and muddy from head to toe. Blinking away some water, he looks over to Beth, not even knowing what a pitiful sight he made. "Well... I saved it..." 

"So what's up?" Con sits across from Jason at Mom and Pop's and cocks his head.

Jason quirks an eyebrow. "We decided to come here and have lunch?" It was the next day and he'd only seen Katie from a distance at work that morning. He hadn't dared talk to her, for fear she was still upset with him, so he'd just let things be for now. Wanting to get away from the office though, he'd convinced Con to have lunch with him.

Con smirks. "You think I can't tell something's bothering you?"

"Is it that obvious?"

"Isn't it always obvious to me?"

"Is it?"

"Are we gonna stop asking questions?"

Jason grins and shakes his head. "Aw I don't know. Just a rough day."

Con sits back and takes a sip of his pop as they wait for their pizza. "Well, I'm here if you wanna talk."

"Yeah, I know. Thanks. It's just... complicated."

Con chuckles. "Try me."

"Katie and me."

"Ah. Now that is definitely complicated." Con grins. "I've noticed things aren't so great between you two lately. Figured it was the whole thing with your emotions."

"It is... and it isn't. I don't know." Jason slouches in his seat and sighs. "We're just... having a hard time. I feel like we're... drifting."

"I'm sorry." Con studies Jason's face. "What's been going on?"

"Oh, I don't know. You know those friends I told you I hooked up with?"

"Yeah."

"Well apparently Katie is jealous..." Jason goes on to explain what had been happening and how both him and Katie had become frustrated. "...so I mean... was I right? Isn't Katie wrong to be seeing Hunter like that?"

Con chews his pizza thoughtfully, contemplating the whole situation. "Well... I don't think it's right. Although I think it could have been prevented."

Jason frowns. "What do you mean?"

"Well, on the one hand, I can see where it could potentially be a bad thing. I mean, Katie obviously feels left out of your life and when that happens, sometimes judgment is clouded. She isn't doing anything sinful but it isn't necessarily a good thing either." Con pauses in thought. "I can understand you not liking it, and it's not bad that you do. I wouldn't approve of Jamie spending time with another man either - even if we weren't married."

"So why can't-"

Con holds his hand to stop him. "However... if she went spending time with another man, I'd start trying to figure out what I did wrong and what I could do to keep her closer to me instead. I'd try to figure out what she was needing that I wasn't giving her."

Jason picks at his pizza crust. "So you think I drove Katie to it."

Con shrugs. "It's not wrong that you're spending time with your friends. You and Katie aren't joined at the hip, and it's not necessarily fair to you that she's gotten so upset about it. You're not married, and there are parts of your life that can be just yours and you two don't have to share. If you don't invite her to join in, that's up to you and she needs to accept that you're an individual with your own life."

Jason's brow furrows. "So... you don't think I drove her to it."

"Then again, there's always the side that says to be sensitive to your girlfriend and maybe compromise with extra special time with her or not quite as frequent time with your other friends - so Katie knows she's still important to you. She obviously needs something you're not giving her anymore."

"So you're saying it's my responsibility to change things."

"And yet, her going off and hanging out with Hunter is no way to solve anything. If she has any respect for you at all, she should probably try to change things on her end too since she knows it upsets you. Not that she has to give up that friendship, but perhaps it needs to be tempered a bit as well. She can have any guy friend she wants... but spending time alone with him like that just has too much potential for things to go wrong."

"So...." Jason shakes his head. "Who's responsible?"

"Both of you."

"Who's right?"

"Both of you."

Jason sighs. "You're not making any sense."

"Yes I am." Con reaches for another slice of pizza. "There's no cut and dry answer here, Hotshot. You're both hurting, you're both trying to feel again, you're both pulling away from each other and you're both trying to hang on to each other, all at the same time. Neither one of you is necessarily right or wrong." He catches a string of cheese before it falls in his lap. "She's not right to make you feel guilty about spending time with your friends. But you're not right for ignoring her. She's not right to go hang out with another man when she's lonely. But you're not right for leaving her lonely."

Jason's eyes rest on the table as he tries to process everything.

Con purses his lips in thought. "I think you two need time... you need time alone and you need time together. When was the last time you had a real date with Katie?"

Jason shrugs. "I don't know... other than lunches or supper at my place? It's been a while."

"So go take her out. Go somewhere nice and make her feel special again. She needs that. You've got your needs too, and that's okay. But don't forget about hers in the process."

Sighing, Jason nods. "Yeah... I guess you're right. All this time I've been trying to find somebody to blame but I guess it's both of us and none of us at the same time."

Con smiles. "Pretty much. Not that I'm an expert or anything."

A grin surfaces and Jason finally takes another piece of pizza. "Jamie's taught you well."

Con laughs, his eyes twinkling. "Maybe so... but I don't mind."

Sooner or Later

Sitting on the edge of the bed Victoria continuing to hold Garrets hand. She could tell he was in pain and rightfully so. He had just been shot after all. She'd hoped the medics had done what they could and they would continue to do so.

Listing to him talk it was odd to hear him say the things he was. They had talked about it before but never in the open like this. Only in the privacy of there own space where they new they were alone. In a way it made Victoria worry because she didn't know if he would continue like this once she was gone or not.

    "Shhhh...I know Garret, I know. You can't talk like that now though or you will lose your head."

Leaning forward a little bit Victoria feels Garret's forehead. It was warm like she would have guessed from the sweat. Giving his hand another kiss she lets go for a second and goes over to the basin that was by the window. Feeling the cool water she grabs a washcloth and dips it in before wringing the water out of it and coming back over to the bed to place it on his head.

   "Here you go this will help cool you off a little bit. Let me get you something to drink."

This time leaving his side and going to the bathroom she grabs on of the cups and turns the sink on to fill it up before going back to his bedside and holding the cup for him so he could take a drink. She'd make sure he was taken care of even if she had to come in, in secret every night she would be there for him.

Seeing Hunter's first message it throws Katie off a little bit. Dump Jason? That...she didn't know if she could or would ever do that. Jason might have been a jerk but that didn't call for a dumping right? They were just going through some rough stuff at the moment. 

LoL...I'll keep waiting for the sunrise it has to come sooner or later.

Putting her phone down and leaning back on the couch Katie lets out a sigh. She didn't drink but at the moment she wouldn't mind going out and just sitting at the bar with a water. She'd made a promise to Jason though to wait at home. Now she had to be held to it. It wasn't fair sometimes.

Giving a small smile to Justin Beth nods a little. She hadn't planed for this to happen and it made her heart race. She had to make sure, and because Justin understood she new maybe it wasn't a bad thing. But to be sure it would make this how thing seem more real and would leave the wonder out.

   "I wont let you hanging for long...I promise."

Giving another smile Beth looks back to the water for a moment as the water glistened. It was strange this one thing it felt like a weight had been lifted. She could breath again and things were becoming more clear, and falling into place.

Madness

Garret struggles to keep his eyes open, but it isn't easy. He's just ready to slip back into a strange sort of sleep when his ears pick up a soft sound. Someone walking... tiptoeing. His eyes felt like dead weights. Then he heard the sweetest sound on earth. Her voice. Relief sweeps through him. He had been so afraid she had been hurt as well. But she was here.

"Vic?" His throat hurt and he wasn't sure why. Feeling her pick up his hand, and her soft kiss, his lips form a small smile. He's finally able to crack open his eyes and he swallows hard. "It wasn't silly," he manages hoarsely. "I'll get..." Coughing, he winces. "...get promoted for... saving Harkins." 

Coughing again, pain shoots through his side and his grip on Victoria's hand automatically tightened. He wouldn't say it, but he hoped he was being well taken care of. There were no hospital visits for people who worked or lived here. There was too much risk in security for that. 

Closing his eyes again, he can feel the sweat trickle down his temple. "Of all the stupid... One day.... one day I'll get paid for... for something more than-" Choking on another cough, his body warned him not to keep talking. "...more than saving lives of... of pompous targets." His fever had loosened his tongue, putting him in a dangerous position. "It's madness... pure... madness." 

Forcing his eyes back open, he could just make out Victoria's face in the dim light. "You're the only thing that makes sense..."

You could always dump him. 

After sending his reply, Hunter wasn't so sure he should have. Taking another swig from his bottle, he types out another quick text. 

Sorry. We be thick headed most of the time. 

Id buy u a drink but u dont drink.

Every morning always has a sunrise. 

Just wait for it. 

Hitting "send," Hunter rolls his eyes. Finding his bottle empty, he waves for another one. Every morning always has a sunrise. That had been something he'd been told once... a long time ago. He'd quit believing it. Yet now he was passing it along. Did that make him a hypocrite? Or did he, deep down, still believe it? 

Kaylee gives Trey a hug around his neck and a sloppy kiss on the cheek, giggling for reasons only she knew. 

Having Trey pull her close too, Cindy returns his hug warmly. For the first time, she was holding the son she had not even known existed. And nothing could replace that feeling. "Yes... I'll call you." 

It wasn't until she was driving back to the hotel that the tears finally spilled over. She wasn't sure whether there was more pain or gladness in her heart right now. No matter. She must go on. She must go home. She must survive. 

Justin doesn't let go of Beth's hand yet and he gives her a soft smile. Seeing that shy little look in her eye made his own eyes twinkle. Maybe he'd known all along that she'd been waiting, and that's what had scared him the most. It felt rather silly now. 

"Yeah, you make sense." He nods. Lifting one hand, he rests his palm against her cheek. "I'm not disappointed," he reassures quietly. "I'm proud of you... no matter what you decide." He meant it too. He was jealous, and he did care for her, and he did want more than friendship, even if he hadn't been able to admit it until now. But... in the end... even if she opted for Zach... he'd be proud of her. 

"Just don't leave me in limbo too long, okay? I've got a weaker heart than most people know."

Dangerous Meeting

As her grandfather places his hand on her shoulder Victoria turns a little to look at him. Her face still held almost no expression but anger was on her face. She agreed with her grandfather that someone should pay for this. That anyone would let this pass over there eyes, and someone she cared for, loved was now laying in a pool of his own blood and there was nothing she could do about it.

   "They better, that could of been you or I that got shot. I guess its a good thing you have Garret around to protect us. Lets hope he pulls through to continue doing so."

Tuning Victoria walks away leaving the medic to look after Garret. She couldn't stand there any long and just watch him bleed out without having a reaction. She could do that with anyone but someone she loved, someone she had gotten to know of the last several years she just couldn't do it. Garret was different he was her weak spot.

...Moving quietly through the halls Victoria didn't need light. She new these rooms and halls like the back of her hand. Her bear feet softly padded on the floor as her night gown long and flowing, her gold threaded bathroom laying over top kept the light materiel from making any noises that might alert anyone.

Victoria had hardly slept as she waited for the medics to leave the room Garret was in, and everyone else to turn in for the night. Stepping through the shadows she moved around the guards undetected. One might thing this dangerous task was foolish and to much work but she had to know Garret was ok and thank him if even for a moment.

Getting to the door Victoria looks left, and than right making sure no one had seen her. Giving a soft knock she opens the door and quickly closes it behind her before anyone saw. She didn't know if Garret was awake or not yet so softly she calls.

   "Garret..."

She new he would know it was her. Her voice was unmistakeable able and he had a nack of even if she didn't say anything he new it was her. So drawing closer to the bed Victoria's heart beats faster. Seeing Garret laying there she could make out the bandages on his side.

   "Oh Garret...I am honored you stepped infront of that gun, but why did you have to so something so silly. Thank you my love!"

Taking Garret's hand in her own Victoria brings it up to her lips and gives it a kiss. She wouldn't have much time here, and it was dangerous to be in this room like this with him but she had to come, she had to make sure he was ok. She couldn't forgetting him all together and what he had done.

Responsible

Where the guard had been when needed, no one knew. But taking orders from Victoria, he did not question or balk. Doing as told, he kneels next to Garret and puts pressure on the wound as the blood pours forth.

"Get everybody out of here!" Medridge barks. "Clear the room. Secure the area! What kind of idiots do I have working here tonight?!"

Almost as quickly as the chaos had ensued, the room is cleared out and the guests taken to another area away from the gruesome scene. They would be dealt with later, and this whole incident would be explained away. That's how things like this were handled. Elaborate lies would be made up in order to cover anything that had gone on here.

Medridge's personal medics arrive on the scene. No one from the outside was ever welcome - doctor or not. Everything was handled here - that's how it always was. Placed on a stretcher, Garret's unconscious body is removed from the room, leaving a pool of blood to be cleaned up by the maids who worked quickly to remove all traces.

Medridge's face was twisted in confused anger as he places a hand on Victoria's shoulder. "Good thing I have one good bodyguard," he mutters. "Heads will roll for this when I find out who is responsible for allowing someone like that to come into our midst."


...The party was over. The guests had been calmed and reassured. A meeting had taken place. And now, in the early morning hours, the estate was once again quiet.

Halfway opening one eye, Garret's senses felt numb and lethargic. Where was he? Starting to turn, he groans in pain, putting a hand to his side where his hand meets bandages. Then he remembered. All he knew was that he had shot someone with a gun, then he'd experienced the worst kind of pain. After that... it was blank. He didn't know Medridge's personal doctor had removed the bullet and sewed him up. He didn't know several nurses were taking turns checking on him and changing his bandages.

Right now, the room he was in was dark and quiet. He was on the third floor and the window was open, a cool breeze playing with the curtains. A strange scent wafted in the air - a mix of lilacs and antiseptic. Garret's skin felt hot, and the breeze was soothing. Swallowing hard, he longed for a glass of water, but there was no one to ask. Sweat broke out on his forehead and he shifts uncomfortably in the bed.

"Victoria," he mumbles. Was she okay? Had she been harmed? He had to know. Had he been too late? Had there been more than one man? "Vic..."

Let him die

Giving another laugh Victoria continues to dance almost as if floating. To have a good dance partner made it all the easyer.

"Life needs a good mystery ro maintain the fun."

The next few moments seemed like a blurr. Screaming, shouting, running it all happened so fast there was hardly time for reaction and with her hand locked with her dance partnure there was no time to grab her own gun.

As she is spun around to come face to face with the man and his gun there was no fear in her eyes as she faced it head on yet under her skin she was shaking.

Seeing Garret coming twords them Victoria's hand tightened slightly around Mr. Harkins. Garret was always her knight, ever watching.

The shot rings out, the man fall to the floor and Garret soon to follow everything once again seemed so fast. Seeing deep red stain though on Garret's shirt a gasp get stuck in Victoria's throat.

"We need help in here, quickly."

Looking to her grandfather her face held confustion. What had happened here tonight. One dead and his closest guard shot.

"How did someone catch this. We could if been the ones dead tonight."

Looking around to one of the guards Victoria waves him over. Doing her best to keep her composure, to fight everything that told her to go to Garret. He was laying there and inside she was dieing.

"Put pressure on the wound but not to much invade the bullet us still in there. The medics should be here any moment. Do not let him die or my grandfather will having your head for killing his closest who just saved me life."

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Unprotected

"Your grandfather's invitation is what brings me here." Mr. Harkins smiles as he twirls Victoria across the floor. "That, and a few good drinks, some good company and... an unknown future."

He chuckles as his feet move with ease. "There is nothing more stimulating than the mystery of the unknown. Why do you think we men are so attracted to women? You are all beautiful mysteries."


Moving slowly around the room, Garret greets guests cordially, playing his part well. There were guards hanging around the doorways, although they looked far less threatening tonight. When Medridge chose to mask the truth, he did it well. Once again, the elaborate ploy could fool anyone. And there were times Garret wondered if even those who lived here chose to fall into the lie if only to live in blissful ignorance for a few hours.

Garret leans back against the wall, still keeping an eye on everyone but especially Victoria. There was a bad feeling in his bones, and over the years he'd learned to trust it. But why he felt it tonight, he wasn't sure. They were always so careful when they had events like this.

"Dirk..." Garret uses his wrist mic once again. "How things look outside?"

"No problem. Quiet. Too quiet."

"Yeah... I was just-"

Garret is cut off by a woman's shriek as she's shoved to the side by one of the men barging through the crowd. "Traitor! Traitor!"

Several more women cry out and the crowd immediately turns into a mess of confusion.

"Gun!" someone shouts.

Garret's sight catches a man who had just drawn a handgun and was aiming it towards Victoria and Mr. Harkins. His own gun appears out of nowhere and he takes aim, but there are too many people. He hears an order being shouted by Medridge, but doesn't understand - nor did he care.

Mr. Harkins spins Victoria around, keeping hold on her wrist as he faces the man with the gun. "Why you insolent-"

"You're despicable!" The man's outstretched gun shakes in his hand, his eyes blazing with anger.

Garret pushes a woman out of his way, paying no heed to her cry. He still had no clear shot, nor did any of the guards. His pulse quickens, as does his pace, though he struggles against the small mob.

Though it felt like an eternity, in reality it was only seconds.

The armed intruder glares at Mr. Harkins and Victoria both, his gun still quivering. "You have betrayed us all!" he accuses. "And you pay with your life!"

Few would realize what happened next, it was so quick. Garret's form suddenly appears as the hurls himself in front of the guest and Victoria. Gun drawn and pointed as he throws his body across the target's path and pulls the trigger as he rolls.

Only one shot is heard.

The intruder is thrown off his feet and collapses to the floor, a clean wound right between the eyes, providing instant death. Several woman scream and a round of gasps echo through the hall.

Having landed on one knee near the threatened couple, Garret doesn't move. His gun is still gripped tightly in his hand, and his eyes were dark and cold as he stares at the man he had just killed. His heart raced and a bead of sweat trickles down the side of his face.

Remaining on his knee, the scene before him blurs. Guards had finally arrived. One was pulling the body out of the room, others were calming the guests. Everything around him - all the sights and sounds started to cloud together in a strange jumbled mess.

"Garret." A hand is set on his shoulder, giving him permission to rise.

But he cannot. As his eyes roll back in his head, his gun finally drops from his hand and he collapses in a heap where he was, exposing the red of blood seeping through his clothes from the wound in his side. Two shots had been fired simultaneously. And Garret had been unprotected.

Flatter

Entering the grand ballroom Victoria finally cracks a smile seeing her grandfather and his friend coming over. Letting go of Garret's arm a paib ran through her chest but she would didn't let her expression change. Giving her grandfather a kiss on one side and than the other she draws away.

"Grandfather, its good to see you again."

As Mr. Harkins takes her hand Victoria gives a shy smile to him before softly replying.

"It's nice to meet you as well Mr. Harkins."

Hearing her grandfather ask her to dance Victoria new it was more an order than a question. There was no way she could say no. This could very well be her reason for being here.

"I'd be honored to dance with you."

Moving to the dance floor Victoria locks her hand and rest her other on Mr. Harkin's shoulder. As they danced she could only wish if was someone else's arms she was in.

"You flatter me with your words Mr. Harkins. So what brings you here tonight?"

Swiftly moving across the floor, smiling the mask so easly painted did not fade. As they pass Garret though for a moment her eyes find his and though he expression did not change he'd be able to see the torcher she felt from having another man holding her.

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Dance

It was all Garret could do, not to reach out and caress Victoria's glowing face. Seeing her emerge from the room caused his breath to catch in his throat... just like it often did. His eyes meet hers for only a split second, lest someone catch him staring. Offering his arm, he walks beside her, caught in a world of lies and masks. But somewhere... somewhere deep within the darkness of his heart, where dreams were left to die, he imagined this ball for them. And he was walking his own princess down the stairs, able to show the world his love. 

Reaching the floor, reality returns and his eyes sweep the room full of guests. Music played, elegantly dressed men and women mingled, sipped drinks or danced. "Yes," he finally responds to her question. "Although something hasn't felt right since they started arriving." His eyes continue to roam the moving bodies and faces, his own bearing only a forced expression of disinterest. "Probably just my imagination though."

"Ah, and here she is." Medridge appears from the side, also dressed in his finest, his shiny black cane clicking on the floor. "Victoria, my dear, you look simply beautiful." He turns to a middle-aged man beside him. "Does she not, Harkins?" 

The man smiles and reaches out for Victoria's hand, bringing it to his lips to kiss. "Indeed she does." 

"Well then." Medridge smiles. "Mr. Harkins, Victoria Medridge," he introduces before looking back at his granddaughter. "Please honor my friend with a dance, will you?" 

Mr. Harkins retrieves Victoria's arm and also smiles. "It certainly would be an honor." Heading to where several other couples danced, Mr. Harkins takes Victoria's hand and waist. "Your grandfather was correct - you outshine everyone in this room."

As Medridge watches the two move into the center of the floor, he steps closer to Garret. "Dirk said he smelled a rat," he mentions quietly. 

"Mm." Garret doesn't take his eyes off of the people. "I'll keep my eyes open, Sir. Is there any intel I should be aware of?" 

"You've been briefed." 

"Then we still suspect someone from the Underground to appear?" 

"Perhaps. It would be daring for them to show up here." Medridge chuckles. "But then, that may be what makes them a worthy adversary." 

"Certainly." Garret's gaze wanders from guest to guest until he lands on Victoria dancing. And his heart quietly hurts.

Royal

Just continuing to swing lightly Victoria's eyes seem to take on a new gaze at the mention of Garret training. Anyone would be honor to have been picked for this oppertunity but to Victoria it felt like a curse. To know Garret would be gone and never come back sent a pain to her chest.

"You can only duck it for so long. I wonder if you do go if I can convince my grandfather to send me too."

As Garret slips his hand  down to link with her own Victoria closes her own hand around his just soaking the moment up. Because they had to keep there love quiet at any moment it could be gone. So soaking up all she could while she could was what Victoria did.

About to say more Victoria stops hearing the voice over the mic. There was always an intaruption and there was no delaying it or it would draw attachen. This was normal but there love flurshed anyways through it.

"Till tonight my love."

Giving a small wave Victoria would spends a little more time here before it was time to get ready for the party tonight.

...Moving around the room Victoria stops hearing knock on the door and Garret's voice that follows. A smile curles on her lips. He was a sly one for sure and always had his ways.

"Give me just a second."

Finishing zipping up her deep red dress it sparkled as she moved, a slit up the one side. Her hair done up so the ringlits hung nicely bouncing a little as age moved. Little white flowers accenting them nicely. Nothing was out of place because that's how it must be.

Grabbing her hand bag Victoria opens the food and gives a nod. It was all she could do here where walls had eyes everywhere.

"I'm ready now Garret. We should not keep my grandfather waiting any longer."

Holding out her hand like a royal would to have help walking, and protection if needed Victoria falls in step with Garret. Once again her faces lacked the emotion it gas before but the knowlege of there being made it so less awkward.

"Have all the guests been checked by the guards before entering? I don't want any problems tonight."

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Escort

"Mmm... good question." Garret shakes his head before leaning back in the swing and sighing deeply. Medridge always had a plan - always. Everything he did had a reason and nothing was done without having first thought it through. Victoria was right. Something as simple as her being at a party had a purpose. She might find out tonight. Maybe a week from now. And there was a chance she never would know what the purpose was. But it was a given that Medridge had a reason for her being there. 

Keeping his arm around Victoria's shoulders, Garret falls silent, his eyes simply roaming the trees that surrounded this tiny haven. He had a few more minutes before he'd be missed. That's all they had - a few minutes at a time. Yet their bond had somehow grown in spite of it.

"I'm on the list to train some new recruits," he comments quietly. He knew she would understand. Training didn't take place here. It took place somewhere else... somewhere far from here. And the program for new recruits required at least three months before they were passed on to another area of the Agency system. It made sense that Garret would be chosen to be a trainer, as his skills surpassed those of many other agents. So far though, he'd succeeded in ducking the job. He had everything it took to teach someone else - but he'd rather be here. If succeeding at being an instructor, there was a chance he would be forced to stay one, and that would mean not coming back here... and not seeing Victoria. No, he'd prefer not to be chosen from the list of other qualified agents. 

Pulling back his arm, his hand slips down into hers, his skin rough against her own. "Maybe your grandfather won't want to give me up as being his right hand man." He'd done his best to maintain his position, but within the Agency, no one's position was ever guaranteed. 

"Garret - you're needed in the conference room at the house." 

Garret grimaces but answers the mic on his wrist. "On my way." Looking back to Victoria, he gives her an expression of apology. This time hadn't been long enough. Leaning in, he gives her another kiss, letting this one linger for just a few moments. "I'll see you later tonight." 

Standing up, he finally lets go of her hand. "Look pretty... for me, not the guests." Winking at her, he turns to go before he stirred up any suspicion of his whereabouts.

...It would be several hours until they'd see each other again. Guests were arriving. To an outsider, it would seem a grand ball. But to those who knew better, understood that everyone invited had more motive than a few drinks and dances. No, like everything else, there was purpose here that perhaps only Medridge knew. Those arriving were either aware of plans or would be soon. They were wealthy. People of influence. People of politics. People who could be bought with money and ideas of power. People who would not question those who would be hurt. 

The party was not abnormal. Medridge often wined and dined those he wished to trap in his web. It was just a question of who would be seduced and who would refuse. 

...Garret's knuckle knocks lightly on the elegant bedroom door. No longer looking like an armed assassin, any weapons were well hidden so that the only thing anyone saw was a tuxedo. He was cleaned up well, his hair combed and his shoes shined. And it was all a must.

"Miss Medridge?" he inquires through the door. "I've been asked to escort you to the ballroom." In truth, he'd manipulated a couple other guys on duty to make it so they were unavailable, leaving him to be asked to bring Medridge's pride to join the party. "Are you ready or would you like me to come back?"

Shadow of Shadows

As Garret came around and sat down on the swing Victoria scooted over to let him sit only to move closer to him once again as he put his arm around here. In this placer there was not a camera, it was a spot that probley held ghosts for someone and for that reason no eyes turned here. But she had found it years ago as a child and now she was happy to share it with Garret. A place where they love could be free and there true feelings shown.

   "Even the wicked have something they fear too. No one goes untouched. It is strange when you think about it. But even the wicked have a haven where its safe."

Seven years slipped by so fast and every day, every meeting, every time Garret and herself could find each other it seemed like time stopped. Together they could get away even if it was in the company of themselves. Garret looks pasted what she did to survive, and she looks past his. To them there job was nothing to do with there relationship and in there eyes they were unmarked.

Her mother was a woman who had a good heart. She loved her to the end of the earth and love her father as well. But that didn't mean she agreed and she did the best to teach Victoria right from wrong in some ways. Her mother never went over bored though because even for her speaking against her grandfather was reason enough to die. Another shadow to hide from the shadows and Victoria learned, and grew and passed it on to Garret.

   "Thank you Garret! You're looking pretty handsome yourself today."

Victoria's smile was bright and it was filled with light a light masked when not with Garret or a pained on fake one. This sitting here...was real. Leaning her head into his finger slightly She closes her eyes for a moment as the cool breeze blows.

Opening them again Victoria gives a laugh at his comment. She'd thought about taking a bodyguard with her on one of her missions. She wondered if that was a good idea to do. Her grandfather new her skill and it might sound strange for her to request that.

   "Maybe you're the one who needs the bodyguard."

Victoria gives another soft laugh knowing good and well he would need a bodyguard about as much as she did. The thought was nice, the dream of getting away together was good but thats about where it ended for them.

   "You know my grandfather wouldn't let me miss it for the world. The only thing really though that will make it worth wild...is you'll be there too."

Leaning in Victoria places a soft kiss on Garrets lips before pulling away a little her eyes twinkling again. Tonight at the part would be much different than there time spent together now. There paths would cross, words would be exchanged but it would not be as if they loved each other. The shadows would hide in the shadows, there love buried waiting for the next time to unmask itself.

   "Grandpa said there would be some very important people there tonight. I wonder just how important and what plan he has for me in it all this time."

It was a daily game and no one ever really new what there part was till it happened. Secrets ran deep even to family that was it would ensure no leaks happened. But in each game there was a common goal, rune a life, find a reaction, fight hard, dont die and if you had to do a dirty task just do whatever was needed to come out as the victor in the end and even Victoria's hands were stained with the blood of the innocent and anything else imaginable.

Weak Heart

You could always dump him. 

After sending his reply, Hunter wasn't so sure he should have. Taking another swig from his bottle, he types out another quick text. 

Sorry. We be thick headed most of the time. 

Id buy u a drink but u dont drink.

Every morning always has a sunrise. 

Just wait for it. 

Hitting "send," Hunter rolls his eyes. Finding his bottle empty, he waves for another one. Every morning always has a sunrise. That had been something he'd been told once... a long time ago. He'd quit believing it. Yet now he was passing it along. Did that make him a hypocrite? Or did he, deep down, still believe it? 

Kaylee gives Trey a hug around his neck and a sloppy kiss on the cheek, giggling for reasons only she knew. 

Having Trey pull her close too, Cindy returns his hug warmly. For the first time, she was holding the son she had not even known existed. And nothing could replace that feeling. "Yes... I'll call you." 

It wasn't until she was driving back to the hotel that the tears finally spilled over. She wasn't sure whether there was more pain or gladness in her heart right now. No matter. She must go on. She must go home. She must survive. 

Justin doesn't let go of Beth's hand yet and he gives her a soft smile. Seeing that shy little look in her eye made his own eyes twinkle. Maybe he'd known all along that she'd been waiting, and that's what had scared him the most. It felt rather silly now. 

"Yeah, you make sense." He nods. Lifting one hand, he rests his palm against her cheek. "I'm not disappointed," he reassures quietly. "I'm proud of you... no matter what you decide." He meant it too. He was jealous, and he did care for her, and he did want more than friendship, even if he hadn't been able to admit it until now. But... in the end... even if she opted for Zach... he'd be proud of her. 

"Just don't leave me in limbo too long, okay? I've got a weaker heart than most people know."

Garret looks down at Victoria, his fingers moving to interlock with hers on the swing's chain. A sigh finally emerges. He felt weary today and wasn't even sure why. "Good... because I haven't had enough of those walks yet." 

Finally letting go of her hand, he moves slowly around to sit beside her - there was just enough room for two to sit together if they didn't mind being cozy. Slipping his arm around her shoulders, Garret holds Victoria close. They had known each other just over seven years now. And from day one, they had known their futures would not easily be separated. Some would call it fate, but Garret wasn't sure he believed in that sort of thing. What he did believe was that over the last few years, he'd fallen in love. And forced to keep it a secret had become a curse they shared. 

Setting the swing in a slow motion, Garret controls it with his leg. "Funny," he muses quietly. "We're sitting here, hiding from the world in our own little peaceful corner. And the rest of the world hides from us." 

They rarely spoke of the conflict. The conflict between what they did to survive and what they knew was right. It wasn't easy to maintain any kind of conscious or conviction in a place like this. And if Garret were truly honest, he would admit that it was because of Victoria that he'd learned to have a conscious again. She was the one that had taught him there could still be good... that there could still be right and wrong, even if they were forced to do despicable things to survive. She'd put up with his stupid moves and he'd loved her for her stubbornness to maintain the lines her mother had taught her to draw. And in the end, Victoria had not only won the battle but she had won Garret's heart. And for the last few years, they had kept their promise of keeping their own relationship pure. No matter what they had to do on the job, when home again, together, alone... what they had would not be marred by bad decisions. And they had kept that promise. But the question they never asked was if they would ever know more. Their love was forbidden. And as such, they were locked in the prison of the shadows. 

Turning his head, a small smile finally creases Garret's lips. "You look beautiful today." He always told her that - but he always meant it. His free hand reaches over and his finger runs lovingly down the side of her face. 

"Maybe the next time you're sent out, you should insist on a bodyguard," he teases. "That way I could keep you in my sights." Still smiling, he shakes his head. "You showing up for the party tonight? I hear there's some high rollers that are supposed to show up."

I have to

Taking Kaylee from Cindy Trey holds her tight and looks her in the eyes giving her nose a kiss. He sure was going to miss her and without anyone seeing he had saved her scribbles to place in his room. A token of her and the love she made him feel.

   "You be good for mom ok Squirt and I'll see you again soon."

Looking to Cindy he gives a little nod. Moving in a little bit still holding Kaylee Alec takes his free arm and puts it around Cindy. He'd never hugged anyone before and meant so it was a little strange but at the same time it felt good and Trey liked that feeling.

   "I'll see you guys again soon. Call me when you get home safe?"

Hearing her phone go off again Katie rolls to her back and reads the message. A small laugh slips out from between her lips. At least he found humor in some of his silly jokes that was a plus.

Just boyfriend problems again and I wish kicking him would

make it all better.

Katie pauses for a moment as she reaches over and takes a swig of her drink. Letting out a sigh her stomach gives a growl. After not finishing her lunch she was paying for not eating anything but at the moment she really didn't feel like it.

I talked to him today and he totally miss the point that I know

he needs his friend time but it would be nice if at least once 

he asked me to go out with them too.

Sitting on the swing waiting...the birds flying high today. The warm rays of sunlight shown down and the breeze tossed her hair a little, she long elegant white and blue dress blowing in the same direction, making soft whipping sounds. Her face held little emotion, but her eyes showed a whole story that was never spoken. To be the granddaughter or a man so powerful, to be raised and trained to be the best of the best...even for her...to rebel would be the same as any other man.

Stopping the swing as a sound no normal person would be able to hear, but the sound was familiar, she could identify who it was and for that she was no scared though in the little white back bag that hung from her wrist was a small gun ready if she never needed it.

As the figure comes up behind her a soft smile finally breaks her lips. In the presents of the one she loved to show emotions was ok. And hearing he would not be heading away to soon was music to her ears. Life without him around was hard, lonely, even if they couldn't show there love, even an emotionless glance said a thousand words.

   "That is good news. I hate it when grandfather sends you away almost as quickly as you get back."

Finally turning slightly to look at Garret Victoria's locks fell over her bare shoulders as her eyes gave a twinkle with the little bit of sun light that made its way into there secret spot. There was everything about him Victoria loved, his deep voice, his looks and here...here it was not pramitted to look anything but your best and dressed up Garret look even better.

   "More walks are always good as long as they are with you Garret. So I will get in as many as I can."

Running her hand up the chain Victoria rests her fingers of his. A forbidden love formed, a secret formed within the shadows of the shadows. It was what pressed them on, what gave them hope and what drove them to continue.

As Beth felt Justin's soft lips on her hand for a moment she was a bit suprised. She had no been expecting that at all. She did not hate the feeling that shot through her hand it only surprised her.

Continuing to just listen to Justin Beth could feel the color come to her own cheeks. Hearing Justin admit he was jealous and that he wanted to be with her Beth's heart thumped in her chest. This is what she had been waiting to here, this is what she wanted to hear for so long and now...now was it to late? She had a date with Zach next week. Someone she cared about and seemed cared about her. 

   "Justin...I...I wanted to hear you say that for so long..."

Beth gives a laugh, this feeling this mixed emotion she had never felt this before, she never felt lost on who she should choose. This was all new to her.

   "Who ever though I'd be so confused with it all. I...it's not to late Justin but I need to go on this date with Zach next week. I have to see if what I feel for you is real and I'm not just attaching myself to you because you helped me. I couldn't do that to you at all."

Looking down at there hands Beth wondered if she was making sense, and if Justin would understand. Now it was her asked for time, to make sure she really did have feelings for Justin and than she wondered if Zach would understand or would it make a bigger mess.

   "Does...that make sense?"

Too Late

Hunter swallows another swig of beer before reaching into his pocket and seeing what the vibration was all about. Leaning on the bar, he swivels the barstool a little, ignoring the loud music and chatter around him. He'd won a race tonight, so he was celebrating. Funny... he was alone. But he could still celebrate, right? 

Squinting at his phone screen, he quirks a grin and quickly replies. 

So when we fall off our motorcycles we 

dont crack those thick heads open.

Wassup and who made the day crappy? 

I'll kick em for u.

Cindy's smile widens and she nods. "You'll find I usually don't give up very easily." She didn't want this to end. But she knew it had to. Looking to Kaylee, she shakes her head. "You ready to go, Pumpkin?" 

Kaylee blows a raspberry and shakes her head vigorously. "More!" She scribbles some more on the paper, the crayon clenched in her little fist. 

"Sorry... I need to get you back to the hotel so we can pack." 

Too soon, the three were standing on the sidewalk, Cindy holding Kaylee on her hip and looking up at Trey. Once more, it was hard keeping her tears in check. She knew she would see Jason again soon. She didn't have the same assurance about Trey. "Well... I'm really glad I came. Oh, and..." She fishes in her pocket, pulling out a piece of paper with her handwriting. "This has my address and my cell phone number. You can call or visit any time... any time at all." 

"Yes!" Kaylee throws up her arms then reaches out to Trey. "Up up!" 

Cindy chuckles and holds her out to Trey for one last hug. "Say goodbye, Kaylee." 

Justin swallows hard and instinctively leans his face into Beth's hand. It was soft and warm and it sent that odd sensation into his stomach again. Turning his head, he kisses her palm before taking her hand and cupping it between both of his. 

"You've said it," he replies quietly. "And you're always welcome." 

Searching her eyes, he can feel a bit of heat rising to his cheeks. "Beth, I..." He bites his lip. "I really am sorry for being such a grouch lately. I guess... maybe I didn't want to admit I was jealous 'cause..." He shrugs and his eyes fall to look at their hands. Maybe he'd been lying to himself all along. "Well, 'cause that would mean I had feelings for you and that always scares a guy like me." 

He gives a sorry sort of laugh and shakes his head, his eyes remaining down. He wasn't used to being on the intimidated end of things. His fingers caress Beth's hand. "But I guess it's true..." 

Though his cheeks were hot, he finally looks back up at her. "It just took me seeing you with Zach to admit it and now I'm afraid it's too late." 

"...No, he's been stalling. Pretty soon though, we're going to force his hand one way or the other." Medridge paces the office, using his cane with each step. "He's a smart one though. I'm intrigued by his reaction through this whole thing."

"Indeed." Garret stood nearby, feet spread and hands behind his back.

"I thought he might retaliate immediately as he has done in the past."

"Maybe his brother wore off on him."

Medridge chuckles. "Perhaps. Although in this case, I doubt anything has worn off on our experiment at all. No... no, this time we have found his very heart and we are drawing it out slowly and painfully."

Though Garret's posture did not move, hie eyes followed Medridge around the office. "Revenge, Sir?"

"Revenge?" Medridge stops and waves his cane at him. "Revenge is for the weak of heart. To take revenge is to wave the flag of defeat, for revenge comes from anger and when angry, no one may win the war. No, no... it is not revenge, my boy." He moves slowly to the far wall that displayed a map of photos, identities, profiles and more. Strings connected lives, families, pasts and futures. "Revenge would be to smite him down with a bullet and be done. This is study. This is the art of dissecting human nature at its finest to test man's strength and worth."

Garret eyes him with little to no emotion. "To what end?"

Medridge turns and smiles a wide smile. "To insanity. And when we have discovered the breaking point of man, we have conquered."

As Garret walks down the corridor several minutes later, his step was as confident and steady as always. But his stomach churned. It was happening more and more lately. A deep, loathsome boiling under the surface. It had started several years ago and had slowly grown against his will - and now he felt it almost every day.

His boots clicked on the slick tile and he paid little heed to the armed guards stationed at each door. They knew better than to threaten him. Armed or not, they'd be dead before they hit the ground. He knew it. And they knew it.

Down a flight of stairs and out onto the grand outdoor foyer overlooking the back yard of lush grass, trees and elaborate landscaping, his eyes were delighted with the beauty. But it simply did not compute. Not anymore. Iron bars surrounded the secluded property, making this an oasis in the midst of silent war. What people wouldn't give to be here. What they had given to be here. There was not one soul here without blood on their hands - including himself.

Down another few stairs, Garret's walk echoes on the stone path as his leather jacket creaked. A handgun was strapped in a holster on his outer thigh - a threat to anyone. But that was only the beginning of his arsenal. No one need know about the other weapons hidden on his person.

Heading through the flower garden, his eyes constantly take in his surroundings. The yard. The fence. The sky. The quiet swimming pool. The conversations happening at various points around the mansion. The quietness was haunting though. For as much evil resided here, there should be guns blazing, bombs exploding and people screaming for help. But it was silent. Still.

Garret turns at the corner of the path, aiming for the stand of trees on the edge of the property. He had reason to be here. It was often that he checked up on the security building to ensure optimum enforcement against any intruders. But today his reason was not inside the building. Instead of entering, he slips around the corner, his ears picking up the sound of the security camera buzzing as it turned to follow his movements. Not a squirrel went unseen on the property. But there were still shadows.

Bending to check a print on the ground, he waits until he hears the camera move again before he slips into the stand of trees. He walks only a short distance to where an old swing hung from an aged limb. It was evidence of an older life... a life before this one, where times were better.

Coming up behind the swing, his arms spread and his rough fingers curl around the rusted chains on either side. His nostrils pick up the sweetened scent of perfume, the golden hair before him stirring softly in a slight breeze. His heart beat a little faster. The churning in his stomach dissolved. She had always been able to do that to him when no one else could. She, the forbidden. She was the only being who had ever been able to bring a chill to his spine with just a look.

"I've been given another two weeks." His voice held a deep, mellow tone, held quietly in this small refuge of peace. "If nothing goes wrong, I may be able to stay even longer before I'm sent back to the States."

Back and forth. That's the way it went, depending on where he was needed. Gradually, he had become closer and closer to Medridge though, allowed more and more to remain on the estate. There were times he had been gone for months. And each time it seemed a little longer. As much as this place was a nightmare, in a twisted way, it was also a haven. And it was also home to his love. But it was a love only she knew of. For to have eyes for Medridge's granddaughter was to sign your own death sentence. She would never be at risk of his wrath, for she was his prize, but Garret walked a fine line.

"That gives us a few more walks together."