Never forget

Cassandra doesn't turn as her daughter approaches, but she does return a kiss to her cheek. As Victoria sits down beside her, she finally shifts her gaze, meeting the worried and inquisitive stare. Her hand finds Victoria's and gives it a gentle squeeze. 

"We don't get to talk as often as I would like." A tear glistens in her eye. "You've come so far and you've become such a beautiful woman. I know that there is no future for you here. But there is always a future..." She touches over Victoria's heart. "...in here. And I never want you to lose that. I have done all I possibly can do. The rest is up to you... and if there is a God, He would be the only one to save you. I don't know if He exists or not, but I have prayed to Him to deliver you from the terrible things you are forced to do." 

Forcing a smile, her hand rises to her daughter's face. "Oh, Victoria... do not ask me such questions of whether or not I am a traitor. You know I cannot answer. I will not knowingly place you in danger as well." 

Rising slowly, she walks to the balcony railing once more and takes a deep breath of the fresh night air while looking up at the stars. "Whatever happens to me, I do not regret my choices. The right choice, Victoria, can never be regretted, no matter the price. Never forget that. Love is pure. Hope is righteous. Joy is the inner strength that so few find. After this night, when you look at the stars, I want you to remember these things. Promise me, Victoria." Her eyes remain on the sky. "Promise me that you'll never give your heart away to the darkness."

"Okay... good." Seeing Katie smile makes Jason smile as well. He'd missed seeing her happy. Maybe Con was right. Maybe he just needed to spend some extra special time with Katie so she'd know he still cared. 

Sliding his hand across the table, his fingers find hers and he gives them a little squeeze. "We're gonna make it, Hero... I know we are."

Tal chuckles at Ryan and shakes his head a little. "Naw, I'm good for now. Tired but I got a lot to do. I gotta sort through all my mail, I gotta figure out how to get the pups to the vet, I gotta call the buyer before he thinks I've forgotten about him and I have to talk to my landlord about giving me an extension on my rent til I get the money from the pups."

Eli rolls his eyes. "So much for taking it easy. Dude... you just got back from the hospital. How about waiting a day or two to do all that?" 

"I can't. It's gotta be done right away or I'm gonna lose everything." Tal sighs. He hurt, he was tired, and he was trying really really hard not to let all this get him down. "Look, I... I'm glad for all the help you guys have given me and I know you're not gonna let me down. But I still got a life I gotta keep under control." 

Eli wanders closer, folding his arms, and his eyes drift to his sister. "I'm thinking we stay here for the evening, I'll go get some pizza, you help Tal make some phone calls... whatd'ya say?" He wasn't going to let Tal tell him no.

Lying in the grass, now dry for quite a while, Justin had abandoned his fishing after catching enough for supper. Now he was just putting off going home. 

With his hands behind his head, he glances over to where Beth was and Danitza lying next to her. He was glad they'd had today together. It might become a rarity from here on out. 

"So, you um... you wanna come over for a fish supper?" he invites. "Or..." Maybe she wouldn't want to now. He didn't want to make her feel awkward or even guilty with her date with Zach coming up.

Carson leans back against the wall of the building, the night air surrounding him. It didn't hide, however, the odor of beer and cigarette smoke of which he reeked. The socializing inside the Bullseye was far from over, but he knew he needed to aim towards home.

Heading down the sidewalk, he staggers just a little bit and leans on a street light for support before moving on. His car was still at Mom and Pop's. Thursday night. The Bible study might still be at the restaurant, if they'd had a late night of discussion. He was usually there to lock up afterward, but tonight he'd left a note that Axel could close up after the study.

It takes a short while to reach Mom and Pop's, and when he does, there's someone waiting for him outside.

...As the Bible study wraps up, Axel leans back in his seat and listens to Rocky and Phil discuss the verses they'd just read. The two didn't disagree, but were debating anyway about the exact meaning. The three were the only ones left - a couple other guys had called it a night already.

Chewing on some ice leftover from his pop, movement outside catches Axel's attention. He'd wondered why Carson's car was still here earlier but had figured maybe Misty had picked him up or something. Apparently not, though. He squints, seeing that Carson is outside with... a woman? Axel cocks his head a little, more curious than anything. He didn't recognize the woman. Was Carson... staggering? Before Axel can decide if he's going to go outside or not, the woman helps Carson get into her car and they pull away, her driving. Odd.

"So do you agree?"

Axel snaps back to attention and looks at Phil. "Um..." He gives a wry grin. "I think I agree with both of you."

...It was several more hours before Carson was at his own front door. He fiddles with his keys, seeming to have a very hard time finding the right one. It take several tries with the correct one to actually get it into the lock so he can open the door.

Finally getting inside, he trips over a chair by the closet, causing a loud bang. "Shhh," he chides the chair. Wobbling a little bit he manages to get his shoes off without falling over. He still smelled like the Bullseye, though this time a slight scent of perfume mingled with the odor of beer and smoke.

Slithering into the living room, he spots Misty on the couch. "Psssst." He quirks a silly grin and ambles over, grabbing the back of the couch so he didn't fall over. Flopping down beside her, he ruffles her hair. "G'day, pretty sheila." His accent was thick tonight, coated with a slight slur. "Or g'night." He grins again. "S'ry. I... think I'm late." He nods, then sticks out his lower lip, his eyes furrowed in a most sorrowful way. "Not mad 't me, are ya?"

Time Moves

Watching Garret as he was gone as quickly as he came Victoria lets out a sigh. If her mother was infact guilty there was nothing she could do about it. This was work no matter your connections with someone, no matter if they were family a job was a job and to leak anything...she new what would have to do done no matter how much it hurt inside.

Finally moving from her spot and heading inside Victoria gives a few nods to the guards that were standing watch as she moved through the halls. Coming to her mothers room she lets out a long sigh before holding herself high and giving a knock to the door than entering.

   "Mom..?"

Walking through the bedroom and out to the balcony where she could see her sitting Victoria leans down to give her a hug and a kiss before sitting down along with her. She wanted to ask, to say so much but she didn't know where to start or how to say anything.

   "I just got back a little while ago. I got informed they know who the traders are that were leaking information. They...they think one of them is you! Is it?"

Victoria searches her mothers face. She could tell her the truth, she could not but she new that if she did tell the truth there would be no fear that Victoria would tell anyone. This might be her job but she was still loyal to her mom, and letting on that she new anything was not something she would do.

Giving a smile as Jason flicks the lettuces to her  Katie shakes her head before finding a run away onion and flicking it back. At least they were trying to get along that in itself was a good thing and it made Katie happy. But if the conversation was going to change...would it still be a cheery conversation. Maybe right now she shouldn't even worry about that.

   "Action movie and a tub of popcorn sounds good to me."

Taking another bit of her sub Katie looks up at Jason and gives another smile again. Maybe things would work out. They just had to continue trying and working twords the goal. Most of the time things worked out in the end so there was still hope, and it was that hope Katie would hold onto as she continued to try.

Holding Tal's over night bag Ryan shakes her head as she comes into the house behind them. If Tal wasn't still sore she probley would of whacked him. It was bad enough he wouldn't stay at there place with them but now he thought they would wan't to look over him. He should know better than that already.

   "Weather you like it or not Mr. We are going to be helping you till your back on your feet again and your just going to have to deal with it."

Setting his bag down Ryan takes Tal and walks twords the living room. Stopping to give Tal a kiss Ryan pulls away and shakes her head again at Eli. She always thought it was funny how her brother reacted to her and Tal kissing. 

   "You might wanna keep your eyes closed for a while. I haven't been able to kiss Tal hardly at all while he was recovering. So...now I think we gotta make up for lost time."

Ryan can't help but laugh and help Tal sit down on the couch before sitting down next to him. Looking over her shoulder at Eli she gives a smirk before looking back to Tal.

   "I love it when I can creep him out. Do you want anything to drink or eat?"

Mangled

Garret takes a step back as Victoria withdraws to sit on the swing. He felt terrible, but there was nothing he could do. No matter how they wanted to react, this was business.

"Why would Hans lie? If they spared him and found out your mother was innocent, he'd still die." Garret shakes his head. "I'm sorry... If you want to question your mother, you need to do it quickly and quietly. I don't know when they'll be done with Hans but surely they will move on to your mother immediately after." That could be a week from now. Or it could be an hour.

Setting his hands on his hips, Garret sighs. He felt helpless. Despite their job and the way their lives had to be, he knew that Victoria had managed to maintain a heart. Most people here lost their hearts after their first case. But she had love... warmth... underneath it all, she was human. And she loved her mother.

Approaching her, Garret leans down and gives her forehead a kiss. "I have to go or I'm gonna be missed. I'll try to see you tomorrow." A pat on her shoulder was all he could give before he was gone.

Jason takes another bite of his sub then cocks his head, just studying Katie. It felt like so much more needed to be said. But what and how seemed to be very far out of reach. 

"Yeah... yeah we could do a movie." He'd already called Sandy and told her he couldn't go to the lake with the gang tonight. "There's that new action movie that might be kinda fun." 

He flicks a piece of lettuce teasingly in her direction. "And a big tub of popcorn so we can accidentally hold hands." 

"...There we go..." Eli holds open the door and stands ready to help if need be.

Tal slowly makes his way into his apartment, leaning heavily on one crutch while his other arm remained in a brace and sling, and his leg was in a boot up to his knee, which, per doctor's orders, was not to touch the ground for at least another three weeks. Hobbling around on one crutch wasn't very easy, but Tal was determined to do it, and succeeded in making it all the way to the couch. Easing down slowly, he lets out a long sigh. "Okay, I'm tired," he announces. Fiddling with his neck brace, he grimaces. "I feel like I'm a mummy wrapped up in all this."

Eli chuckles and shakes his head. "You look like one too. Well... maybe a little worse."

Tal throws him a withering look. "Thanks a lot." Feeling something cold and wet on his bare leg since he was wearing shorts, he jumps before realizing it's Holly. Grinning, he gives her his one working hand. "Hey there, you. Did ya miss me?"

Holly licks his hand and wriggles her stumpy tail, giving a little whine.

"Mmm... yeah. They took good care of you huh? And the kids?" He glances to the kitchen to see the pups behind the gate. They'd grown a lot in the last few weeks. "You mean uncle Eli didn't throw any of you out?"

"Hey now." Eli sets his hands on hi ships. "Ryan and I have bent over backwards just trying not to kill anything."

Tal chuckles. "And I'm forever in your debt. Now you won't have to worry about it anymore."

"Will you listen to him?" Eli looks at Ryan and shake his head. "He thinks he's gonna be able to handle all this on his own now. What part of 'take it easy' from the doctor did he not understand?"

"I'll take it easy," Tal argues. "I can't not. Besides, you don't expect me to lie in bed all day do you? I've been doing that for four weeks."

Eli points Ryan in the direction of the couch. "Go remind him that we're going to be helping him, will you? And remind him he was the one that didn't want to stay at our place instead."

Grinning up at Ryan, Tal then glances over to Eli. "You might wanna turn around. I want to kiss your sister, but it's not a pretty sight when I'm all mangled like this."

"Oh good heavens." Eli covers his eyes. "Tell me when it's over."

Unexspected

As Garret takes both sides of her shoulder Victoria looks up at him. Something about the look in her eye made her worry. They had found the leak that was a good thing...and if it was why did he still have that look on his face? There must be more to the story and she wasn't sure if she really wanted to know or not. 

   "Hans....I can't believe it...why...what..."

Hans was really the leak? He's been a trusted servant in this house hold for as long as Victoria could remember. What would cause him to do this now? Why was the question and she didn't understand. Didn't he know he'd get caught and that would be the end of his life?

Looking back up at Garret again Victoria could see there was more to what he needed to tell her. It wasn't just Hans? There was someone else in the house hold too? It made her heart start beating extremely fast as she thought about it.

Hearing her mother was in on it too Victoria couldn't help the shocked look on her face. Finding the swing in the dark she walks to it before sitting down. How could...not her own mother. It made her angry her mom would do something so careless and it made her sad that she had been found out because the next step was not one she wanted to think about when it came to the fate of her mother. 

   "How do you know Hans wasn't lieing to try and save his own neck? I just....I can't believe it Garret. I am going to have ask mother myself. I....He'll kill her if its true."

Taking a bite of her turkey sub Katie places it back down in the basket. The silence had been quite awkward but she didn't know what to say least it be the wrong thing. The other day had been a glimpse of a bad lunch and she didn't want to go through it again.

   "Yeah, I should be there still I think."

Katie might be mad at Jason but she wouldn't miss a concert. It had been a while since they had one and she always enjoyed them. Keeping everyone safe, including Jason was important too and she would never turn that away no matter how made she was. 

Running a french fry through some ketchup Katie munches on it for a moment before going back for a little more and finishing the fry off. Looking across the table at Jason Katie gives a small smile. She wanted things to be ok again but she wasn't sure how. Everything seemed so confusing now.

   "What are you doing tonight? Want to go catch a movie or something after work?"

Discovered

Garret relaxes under Victoria's touch and he manages a small smile for her as well. Leaning down, he gives her lips a tender kiss. He knew she'd been with Mr. Harkins. He knew what all of that meant. But each time she returned, he wiped it from her record in his mind, knowing that no matter her jobs, her heart was his. 

"Yeah, they took good care of me." He purses his lips grimly. "But a lot has happened." 

He places his hands on her shoulders and looks her in the eye. His own gaze was a mix of confusion, anger and sorrow. He had to tell her now - it couldn't wait. "While you were gone they... they discovered the leak. Someone was giving intel to the Underground and that's where that shooter at the party was from. He'd come to kill Harkins so he wouldn't give away their own intel." This should be good news. Garret shouldn't have this horrible look in his eye. But he did.

Swallowing hard, he shakes his head. "It was Hans. He's been feeding the Underground for the last ten months. That's how we've been one step behind them this whole time." But there was more. "Medridge has had him in the interrogation room since noon." Everyone knew it was more than an interrogation room - it was more like a torture chamber. "And he talked."

Garret searches Victoria's eyes. Did she know? He'd been clueless. Was it even true? "Hans said your mother has been involved... that she's been in on it with him this whole time, in contact with the Underground. Medridge hasn't acted yet though, too busy with Hans. But... but he's bound to."

 
Cassandra sits on her balcony bench that overlooked the back of the estate. The moonlight caressed her face and hair that blew gently in the wind. Her eyes roamed the yard below then slowly rose to the stars in the sky. She'd never been too sure if God existed or not, and if He did, if He even heard prayers. But if there was a night she would try, it was surely tonight.

She had yet to be questioned. But she knew it was coming. Her personal maid, Sarah, had very discretely informed her that Hans had been caught and that he had given away Cassandra's name.

Cassandra was grateful. And yet the waiting was so very difficult. Medridge, father-in-law or not, would have her killed for betrayal if it was proven, and she knew it. If her husband were still alive, perhaps it might make a difference, but she doubted it. He would have turned her in himself probably, if he'd had the chance. It wasn't until after he'd been killed by his own stupidity that she'd dared even toy with the idea of helping someone outside the Agency. She'd hated it here since the beginning, being pulled in against her will. Then raising her own daughter while watching her be turned into one of the most skilled murderers and seductress. She'd done her best to instill a moral base into her daughter's heart, and could only hope that it would stick. Cassandra knew that Victoria was forced to do many terrible things - as everyone was here. Every once in a while she caught a glimpse in her daughter's eye that gave her hope Victoria was hanging on to her mother's teachings. And Cassandra had seen a change in Garret as well, even if no one else had. Through it all, her loathing of the Agency only increased. And when the opportunity to go against them had shown itself, she'd taken it.

Now her life was on the line. No one had approached her yet. They were probably waiting to be done with Hans first. He would be tortured and questioned until rung dry, then he would be killed. And then it would be her turn.

A shooting star streaks across the sky and a tear emerges to roll down the side of Cassandra's face.

"Um... I dunno... noon?" Jason knew things still weren't good between him and Katie. The tension was still here and he still hated it. But at least they were speaking and willing to each lunch together. That said something, right? 

"You pick the place and it's my treat today." It was the least he could do to show he was trying...

...Once noon rolled around and they had gone out to lunch, the silence was more than Jason preferred. But at least they weren't arguing. He didn't want to argue, so he didn't bring up anything about his friends or Hunter. 

"So..." He fiddles with a straw wrapper. "You still gonna come to the concert?" He couldn't remember the last time he hadn't been sure of the answer to that. The concert was in just a couple days now and he really didn't know if Katie would still want to come - bodyguard or not.

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.