Poor Boy

Garret doesn't answer Victoria right away, just letting his eyes fall shut as he feels the cool cloth on his face. Would he ever have her for all time? Would she ever have him forever? Or were they destined to continue living in this nightmare until they both died? 

Sighing deeply, his hand finds hers again, giving it a little squeeze. "Nothing went wrong but me," he responds quietly. "Got sick yesterday but I had to stay and finish the job." He licks his dry lips, thinking about the men he'd gunned down as he had narrowly escaped that warehouse. "So by the time I could get back here... I've been ordered several days of bed rest."

His eyes drift to his open door and to the hallway as he listens. No... that must have been his imagination. "Deacon's gone for two days and Chris is on duty at the main house." He'd forgotten about that. For the time being, he had the guard house to himself. "Just watch for the doctor... I don't know how often he's gonna be in and out of here."

Gazing up at Victoria, he studies how the moonlight from the window casts a glow on her face. "I'll be good as new in no time." His voice was still quiet and somewhat groggy. "I have to be." 

Life was short... and would soon be gone. Jared wondered what that meant for him. Would his last days be spent like this? Helpless in a wheelchair? Would he be able to live life to the fullest or be confined the rest of his life? What happened after that? Was he just gone or was stuff about Heaven true? He wondered. 

Hearing Grace's perspective, he scoffs. "Ladybugs don't have long tails! Look at that." He points again, except by now the clouds had reshaped themselves. "Well okay... it doesn't look like a dragon anymore... but it's more like a toad than a ladybug... from the side... sitting on a rock." 

Still staring at the sky, he closes his eyes, letting his face soak in the warmth of the sun. "Can I just stay out here?" he asks quietly. "I don't want to go back inside... ever." 

"Yeah... I know." Jeff wriggles Rosetta's hand lovingly. "I guess I just always thought life would be different. And now instead of just being booted out of this life, I've been kept around to just be more restricted and taunted a little bit longer." He sighs. "Feels like I'm just a puppet on a string - given the chance to taste freedom but never live it." 

Catching her eye, he smirks a little and shakes his head. He knew all that sounded extremely depressing and he didn't want Rosetta admitting him to the psych ward. Gaining a grin, he rolls his eyes. "But don't worry. This puppet knows he's not alone." 

Seeing a nurse coming into the room, he gives Rosetta's hand a final squeeze. "You better get going. Don't let anybody at the ranch think I need company all day - I'm fine being alone for a while." 

"...No." Mick shakes his head. "I left him on those stalls I was working on."

Eric takes a sip from his water bottle while he and Mick and Sparky stood in the break room of the barn. He rolls his eyes and grins. "Poor guy. Did he know you were ditching him?"

Mick chuckles. "I didn't ditch him. I had other work to do."

"Uh-huh." Sparky thumps Mick's arm. "Of all things to have him do. Those stalls haven't been touched in ages."

"I know. But hey... they need to be done, right?"

Eric nods. "Of course they do."

Sparky eyes Eric suspiciously. "And where were you?"

"I was working on some other stalls."

"Oh, I see. You rope Hunter into helping with the tough stuff, then you go clean out the stalls that were just done two days ago, making him think that you were working just as hard as he."

"Hey now.... He's what? Half my age?"

"I don't think it's quite that much difference."

"Well regardless, he's a young buck and I'm a tired old truck driver."

Mick snickers and stands from the table, grabbing his gloves. A ten minutes break was enough and there was too much else to do today than sit around here. "Think I should rescue him?"

Eric glances at his watch. "Eh... give him another fifteen minutes."

"You guys!" Sparky throws up his hands. "I'm going to the back pasture to look at those fences. If I come back and find the poor boy's had a heat stroke, I know who to blame."

Eric and Mick stifle their laughter as Sparky exits, and then exchange humorous glances before also leaving the break room.

Luke had always enjoyed Katie's company, and today was no different. Working with her was easy since she knew her way around, and in no time, they had the yearlings all cleaned up and tied near the fence to await the buyers. 

Leaning on the fence, Luke nods to Katie. "Thanks for your help. I think I'm gonna go see Angel and get off my feet for a bit. Just keep an eye on these fellas here while you're around here, will ya? They should be okay -  just don't want them getting to antsy."

Alone

So many things could be seen in the one look Jeff could see from Rosetta. Anger, sadness, depression and the longing to just be normal. It pained Rosetta to know it just wasn't possable for Jeff. He'd always been sick and yes they had made him a little better when they removed the chip but he wasn't one hundred percent and he probley never would be.

   "Yeah I am going to head back with Jay for a little bit. I'll be back later though, you just can't get rid of your sister you know."

Trying to give a smile Rosetta lays a hand on her brother's hand. She really did care about about her brother and she didn't want anything to happen to him.

    "Hey I know things are hard right now....and it tough for you. But I know your strong so hang in there ok? You have a lot of people who love you. I know its not easy...I've been there with my own heart. So don't think your alone ok?"

Taking some of the soap and a brush Katie starts to lather up the horse and slowly but strongly comb it through the hair, taking careful note to the dirt and making the coat look sleek. Katie loved the way the wet soapy fur felt under her fingers. 

   "Well if you have to sit down or something don't feel bad about it. I don't mind finishing up the horses and than leave you to looking them over."

Katie new that sometimes Luke had to take it easy because of his legs and she understood. She'd help and if he had to go than that was find with her. She liked working with the horses best and making them look good enough to sell later in the day gave her pleasure.

Leaning her head to the side Grace looks at Jared for a long moment and gives a smile. She understood where Jared was coming from and she understood his frustration. She couldn't imagine being in that position herself and not having any frustration at all. In her mind she thought Jared was taking it pretty well. Better than most even.

   "Being slow doesn't get old...it helps us remember the finer things in life. It helps us to remember, look around and just simply enjoy. Life is so short to be in a rush, and before you know it...it will all be gone."

Studying the clouds Grace cocks her head for a second deep in through. Studying the cloud that Jared had said was a dragon she chuckles for a second.

   "That's definitely not a dragon thats a lady bug. You can see the spots right there."

   "I know I shouldn't but you know I don't follow the rules all the time."

Running her hand down Garret's face again she whipes a little of the sweat away. She wasn't sure what had happened but she new it hurt to see him like this. The fear of the one person she loved, the one person no one else new she cared for more than anything. 

   "What happened this time? Did something go wrong?"

Sitting down softly on the side of his bed Victoria takes the towel that had been laying on the night stand with the basin that had ice in it and got it wet a little. Bringing it to his forehead she gently dabs away the sweat trying to cool him down little by little.

 

One Day

Jeff turns his head to see Rosetta and quirks an eyebrow at her before shrugging. "Eh... I guess if being this tired is feeling better, then yeah." 

Sighing, he studies his bedsheets for a few moments before looking back up at his sister. He really didn't know what to say. He was miserable. Exhausted. Didn't want to be here. Didn't want others to be worrying about him. But he knew he needed to bite his tongue, too. 

"You going back to the ranch?" 

Turning, Luke smiles at Katie. "Hey, good morning, Katie." He nods as he turns off the nozzle on the hose. "Yeah, some help would be great, actually. I got some soap here and a couple brushes if you wanna work on one side of her and I'll take the other." 

Grabbing the necessary items, he goes around the other side of the sopping wet filly to begin scrubbing her. "Maybe with your help I can get these few horses done by the time my legs give out on me," he muses. 

...After wiping sweat from his brow, Hunter throws another pitchfork full of manure into the wheelbarrow. He didn't know how many times he'd already walked back and forth to the manure pile, and they were only on the second stall. He wasn't about to quit until told to though - if Mick could do all this work, then so could he. 

Mick watches Hunter as they work, every once in a while, a small smile slipping through. They had chatted just a little bit since working, but conversation could be difficult when trying to concentrate on the task, let alone talking while breathing heavily from the hot work. 

"So... you know how to ride a horse?" 

Hunter pauses his work just for a moment before shaking his head. "Nah. I know how to sit on a horse, make it go and stop and steer. But that's about it." 

Mick chuckles. "Most people think that is riding a horse." 

Hunter smirks and sets to work again. "Then they don't realize all there is to it. I don't pretend to know - it's safer that way." 

Mick just grins, secretly impressed with Hunter's honesty. Many a city-slicker who had ridden a time or two in their life, considered themselves knowing how to ride and wound up just making a fool out of themselves. "Who taught you what you do know?"

"An uncle of mine. He owned a little farm where I used to spend some of my summers. He had a couple horses so he taught me how to get on and go." Hunter smile a little at the memory as he throws more manure into the wheelbarrow. "Been quite a while though."

"Wanna ride while you're here?"

"Maybe, if there's time. I don't want to bother anybody."

Mick rolls his eyes. "As if. We like riders - it exercises the horses." He gives Hunter a sidelong glance. "I give riding lessons... got one happening tomorrow if you want to join in for a refresher course." 

Hunter lifts his eyebrows, unsure. And then... he really would like to get back in the saddle again. He'd always enjoyed it as a kid. And maybe if he was okay with it, he and Katie might get to ride together too, and that would definitely be fun. "Um... sure. If I'm not at the hospital with Katie, that is."

Mick nods. "If you are, we'll work something else out." 

...An hour later, Hunter was drenched in sweat, but still working hard, though by now his stomach was complaining that he'd had nothing to eat yet today. Somehow though, the physical work felt good. He wasn't just sitting around his apartment doing nothing. And while some would hate this kind of work... he was rather enjoying it, even when Mick went to do something else and he was left on his own for a while. It felt a little awkward, yet nice at the same time. 

Watching Grace and listening, Jared begins to see some of what made her so different. She was happy with the simple things. Most people weren't. But she not only was happy with the simple things, but she took the time to enjoy and embrace them. The clouds. Flowers. Her passing reference to God makes him wonder about her religious beliefs, but regardless, she definitely had an element of peace about her. 

Setting aside his plate too, Jared looks around for a moment, trying to figure out how he could do this. Finally using his arms to shift himself around, it was a bit awkward, and surely didn't look pretty, but he eventually gets himself turned around to lie on his back next to Grace. Aimed in the opposite direction, his shoulder was near her hand and vice versa. 

Staring up at the clouds, he sighs. "Maybe you're right... but if slow is the only pace, it gets old kinda fast." 

With eyes still searching, he grins and points to the sky. "I see a dragon." 

Hearing Victoria's voice, Garret's eyes open a bit groggily. Her voice was relaxing... her cool touch was soothing to his feverishly hot skin. "I'll be okay," he assures quietly. He didn't know if she knew what had happened or not. Did she know it was not a bullet wound or an accident? He wasn't sure.

Taking her hand in his, his palm is overly warm. Putting her fingers to his lips, he kisses them softly. "You shouldn't be in here," he warns. She knew better than to come to his quarters. Why had she? Had she been that worried about him? He hated it that they'd had so few quiet moments together lately. It was unfair.

Squinting at her in the dark, he lifts his free hand to cradle her face as his thumb runs along her cheek. "But I'm glad you are," he relents. A bead of sweat trickles down the side of his face and he swallows hard. "One day... one day we'll be able to see each other in the light."

Shadows

Rosetta gives a laugh again before standing and giving a little stretch. The night of sleeping in a chair had really done a number on her back so now standing and stretching really felt good.

   "Alright I"ll be right back than."

Walking past Jay Rosetta knocks and than enters Jeff room giving a small smile to him. If was was going to leave for a little bit she wanted to let him know. Even if he didn't want her to be here to begin with it was still the right thing to do.

   "Morning! Feeling any better?"

   "Alright I'll see if Luke needs any help than. Just take it easy on him Eric I mean he still needs to drive me to the hospital after all."

Katie gives a smirk and shakes her head as Eric turns to leave before looking at Hunter again. Taking the last sip of her coffee. She wasn't worried about Hunter being with Eric and Mick. She new they would take good care of him for her.

   "If you need help with anything don't hesitate to ask. My uncles are good like that and would be more than willing to help. They might work you hard but not to death."

Putting her cup in the sink Katie takes Hunters and wells to joins her. Walking past him Katie's arm brushes his as she looks over she shoulder at him and gives another smile. She again was happy Hunter had come. It was a good place for him, it was a good place for anything who just needed that extra time to find them self.

   "I'll see you in a little bit."

...Having her own work cloths on and her boots Katie heads for the area she figured Luke would be cleaning the horses. It was one of the few spots that had little mud when water was applied. Coming around the corner and seeing she had guess correctly Katie gives a wave to Luke.

   "Morning Luke! I though this morning you'd like some help with the horses. "

Giving another smile to Jared Graces eyes sparkled. It was unusual for her to offer friendship to one of her patents once there therapy was done. But the connection she felt with Jared seemed so strong of a friendship to turn it away would be a wast.

   "I wouldn't mind pushing you around. Sometimes slow is better you know. How can you smell a flower if your passing it to quickly right?"

Placing her empty plate back into the basket Grace gives a content sigh and lays back on the blanket making sure her dress was tucked around her dress around her. Just looking up at the clouds go by Grace's smile grows even more. 

   "Life's to short not to take it slow and enjoy the little thing God has given us. Even if its something simple like time with a friend, watching the clouds drift by, or walking the great wall of china. Slow, sometimes is good."

Slipping through the shadows the only thing saw was mabe the tale ends of a whisping nightgown. Walking in the shadows had become all to common and this was just how life for some people was. If there was a daylight to walk in one might even know how.

Silently entering Garrets room Victoria has long mastered the art of silence. It was life, it was living even if it was the wrong way. To go against it would mean death and Victoria was not ready to join her mother yet. 

   "Garret..."

Moving slowly over to his bed it seemed lately laying, healing was becoming more common for Garret. Victoria hated it and it hurt every time she silently saw him return a little worse than the last time.

Running her hand down the side of Garret's face She gives a smile. He looked slightly better than when he first arrived home but still not his best. 

   "Hey...I this time for sure I was going to lose you. You didn't look so hot returning."

Scared

Jay's jaw drops in mock shock at the suggestion he was old, and he points a teasing finger at Rosetta, warning her. "Very funny..." 

Nodding, he thumbs to Jeff's room. "Well, I don't know what time you want to go, but he's awake now. Don't know what kind of mood he'll be in after our little talk, but he seemed okay a few minutes ago. I can stay as long as you want though before we go." 

Eric mulls over Katie's offer for a moment, but shakes his head, his eyes gaining a strange glint that he doesn't explain. "Naw, we just need another strong back. You go ahead and do whatever you want with the horses. I think Luke is actually trying to clean up a couple of those yearlings before a buyer comes to look at them today - you might see if he needs a hand." 

Glancing back to Hunter, he gives him a once-over. "You got work clothes with ya?" 

Hunter nods. "Yeah..." He'd brought some work boots and some old jeans and shirts just in case he wound up working - looked like it had been a good idea. "Just lemme go change and I can meet you in the barn." 

"Good deal." Eric nods and turns to head out again. "See you guys out there." 

Watching him leave, Hunter takes another long swallow of coffee and grimaces as it goes down. Looking to Katie, he nods though. "Looks like I got something to keep me busy for a while." He grins and forces himself to finish his morning drink. He was happy for the opportunity to do something right now. He'd sit with Katie in the hospital all day long if she wanted, but keeping his hands busy would at least keep his mind from wandering to less pleasant topics... 

...It was just a short while later and Hunter was in the barn, wandering down the aisles to find Eric. Instead, he comes upon Mick instead, back in the far stalls. 

Mick, ankle deep in manure, looks up and grins at Hunter. "Mornin'." 

"Hey... Eric said he needed help...?"

"Oh yeah. He's got Jim helping him down at the other end, so you can stick around and help me." Mick gestures to a shovel and pitchfork in the corner. "Help yourself." 

Surveying the stall and the wheelbarrow Mick was using, Hunter nods. It wasn't as if this was hard to figure out. Grabbing a pitchfork, he comes in and sets to work. 

Outside, Luke aims the hose at the filly, soaking down her coat that was full of dried mud and grass. He'd actually gotten himself up out of bed at dawn this morning and had wanted to take advantage of a good day and not stay in bed when he didn't have to. It wasn't often anymore that he was able to do a whole lot of useful tasks around the barn, but with Jeff out of the game right now, Luke felt an even greater responsibility. 

Having been concentrating on his sandwich, Jared's eyes look up quickly at Grace. Her words were rather poetic and they surprised him. Surely she was just kidding though, right? She was just his physical therapist - when the job was over, that was it. She probably just wanted to encourage him and be nice... right? He notices her cheeks are red, which contradicted his theory. 

Finishing the half sandwich, a new grin spreads on his face. "I guess I'll need somebody to show me the world," he reasons, "since I don't remember any of it." He cocks his head, his gaze remaining on her face. "Of course... that just means I'll have to get on my feet that much sooner. I can't have you pushing me around all over the place all the time. That would just slow us down." 

Still grinning, his tone teases her. And yet, behind the teasing... behind his eyes... behind that veil of confidence and flirting... there was someone who was scared of that world out there. Scared of what he no longer knew. Scared of feeling just as alone out there as he did in that hospital room.

In a place like the Agency, time never seems to exist, despite the rising and setting of the sun. No job is ever wholly complete. No goal is ever wholly reached. Caught in this tragic form of manipulation, agents are like hamsters running on wheels that expend total energy yet lead them nowhere. Only worse are those agents that have realized through sheer willpower that they are trapped. And when that realization begins to take root, eyes see only beyond these confines, creating a gnawing in the gut - a drive to break free. But to risk rebellion is to risk one's life. So one must keep on running. Keep on heeding commands. Keep on towards unattainable goals. For survival is the only option...

The black van pulls into the drive way, having just come from the airstrip. It was normal. Common. Almost boring in a way. It never changed.

Life at the Estate had become dully consistent. Medridge spent more and more time here and less time traveling to labs or facilities. During the past month, he had traveled some, but not as he used to. Was it his age? No one dare ask.

Agents had come and gone. Some had never returned. Others, like Garret and Victoria continued an unpredictable cycle of being called away to missions then whisked back to the Estate once more. What used to be an infrequent hideaway had become their own home base - but even that  was never a sure thing. No one knew when they would be permanently relocated. But if anyone preferred the Estate, best behavior was a must. And most everyone there knew that this luxurious location was better than most Agency establishments.

Stepping out of the van first was Deacon - he had been the head driver for the past three weeks and rarely spoke to any other agents. His silence made him a favorite of Medridge - perfect for a driver that could never speak of their location.

Coming to the side of the van, Deacon slid open the door, just in time to catch Garret before he fell out. Garret clung to the big man to keep himself from slumping to the ground. Sweat trickled down the sides of his face and his eyes held a strange blur. He'd been gone for five days. To where, only he knew.

Slinging one of Garret's arms over his shoulders, Deacon leads Garret to the house, half helping, half dragging him. A medic meets them at the door and he is ushered inside where he disappears into the confines of the basement lab.

Only several hours later would Garret lie in his own bed in the smaller house at the edge of the property. Medridge's personal doctor would be seen coming and going, but only every so often, leaving Garret on his own for most of the day and into the evening.

The World

Hearing the Jay was infact going to come see everyone at the ranch Rosetta couldn't help but be a little excited. Sitting up from the chair a little bit straighter her smile widens. A lot had changed since he was last there but this was something to look forward too and she couldn't help but feel like a little kid.

   "Well Trent and Eric said to call when I was ready so if I don't call than I don't have a ride. We can head there together if you want. I don't know if in your old age you remember the way."

Shying away a little bit Rosetta grins as her eyes dance a little bit with humor. Jay was only a year older than she and she always did like to pick on him about it. All in good fun though and she new he could take it. 

   "Before we go though I just want to make sure everything is ok with Jeff."

Hearing Eric's voice Katie turns around and gives a smile and a nod. She often saw her uncles and other workers in the morning but this morning it was a surprise. It was a late start and she hadn't exspected to see anyone till around lunch time. Though this was a nice suprise.

   "Good Morning Uncle Eric, yeah I though maybe doing some work in the barn would be nice before dinner. Show Hunter the ropes a little bit."

Katie gives a grin at Eric and than back to Hunter. It was nice how everyone seemed to be taking quickly to Hunter. It was almost like he was meant to be here, and people had known him forever. It was a feeling Katie really did enjoy.

   "I don't mind if you steal him away for a little while. As long as you dont over work him. I could help to if you want? I am sure my normal chores are done already since its so late. And if you would just rather had some guy time I bet I know a few horses that need there shoes picked."

Taking a sip of her water bottle Grace gives a smile setting it down and leaning back on her arms for a second. Today really had turned out to be a nice day and the clouded that threatened the morning seemed to clear up. Grace was happy and hearing Jared's comment made her smile more.

Truth was when Jared could walk again she was going to miss there interaction too. He was smart, funny, easy to get a long with and there was something about him she liked. This simple friendship God had brought her Grace still couldn't help but feel like there was something more.

   "Well you know once you can walk again we can still be friends if you want."

Sitting up and picking a few blades of grass Grace slowly works on tieing them together into a long chain. Finding a few small flowers she works them into the grass as well. Looking up again and holding up the small bracelet of flowers and grass she gives a small laugh. It was a childish thing to do but it had kept her busy for a moment. 

   "Once you got out of the hospital too we might be able to do a few more things together to become better friends. Here there is only a limited amount of places I could take you. Out there though...I could show you the world."

Realizing that maybe her comment had come across a little more flirty that she wanted it to Grace could feel her cheeks turn a little shade of red once again. If anything was obvious it was that she could be embarrassed easily even if she never brought attachen to it.

Stalls

Jay catches Rosetta's eyes and just lets her question linger for a moment. It would be very much like him to decline. He had a family waiting for him back home. A business. Safety. But something in his eyes was different today. "Yeah... yeah, I'll come to the ranch. You need a ride or is someone else coming back to get you?"

Hunter accepts a cup of coffee, keeping it black. Taking a long swig, the taste is bitter, but he liked it stronger anyway. Especially when his tastebuds were looking for a beer instead.

"Mm... spending time in the barn is good, and yes... taking your dad some better food is definitely a must. Hospital food is always nasty."

"Well, good morning, you two!"

Hunter is surprised enough by Eric's entrance that he just about chokes on his coffee. "Good morning."

Eric grins and nods to them both. "Did I hear someone wants to work in the barn?"

Hunter gives him a wary look. "Maybe. Before we go back to the hospital."

"Well then, it's your lucky day..." Eric had already been in the barn for an hour, as was evident by his gloves and sweaty brow. "Know how to clean stalls?"

"Oh, I bet it would come back to me."

"Good, good." Eric pats Hunter's shoulder before looking at Katie. "Mind if I borrow him for a while? Mick suddenly decided he wants to use those back stalls and they haven't been cleaned in ages. Needless to say, it's more than a one-man job. And if you're gonna wait a while to back to town, then..."

Jared maintains a smile, noticing Grace's red cheeks, but glad that his dumb chatter didn't bother her. The problem was, she was extremely easy to flirt with. And maybe there was just a part of him that really did enjoy paying her compliments - she certainly deserved them. 

Focusing again, he eyes the food she presents. "Mmm... most of the stuff you've brought before I've liked, so I betcha I'm gonna like all this too." At least he was gaining back a small appetite. It had been slow going, but he'd been able to eat a few good-sized portions lately as long as he was careful. 

A few minutes later as he chews on part of a sandwich, he nods. "Yep... this is good." Leaning back on the tree again, he sighs. "You're gonna spoil me, ya know. Nice sunny day. Good food. Pretty girl. I wanna walk, but I'm gonna miss the special treatment, ya know." 

Promise

Opening the small basket that had the food in it Grace pulls out the packages. Maybe he was trying to hide how frustrated and silly he felt but she found humor in him and rather enjoyed his innocent banter. It was rather enjoyable and different from the normal for her.

   "Nah, if I tell you to shut up than I can't enjoy you talking anymore."

Glancing over her shoulder Grace gives a little smile as her cheeks turn slightly red again. But it didn't make her falter her cheeks turning red was hardly anything. 

   "So today I made egg salad, peanut butter cookies, chips, and apples. I hope you like it."

Having the door held open for her Katie smiles and walks in giving a thank you. Hunter was being such a gentlemen it was rather nice. though she wondered if it was just friendly or part of there conversation yesterday.

Making her way to the kitchen with Hunter Katie pulls out two coffee mugs and pours some coffee. Putting some cream and sugar in her own she offers some to Hunter as well so he can have whatever he would like in his own.

   "Well I was thinking about spending a little time in the barn so at least I am helping a little today and than maybe head to see how my dad is doing."

Taking a sip of her coffee Katie closes her eyes for a second. The warm drink felt good and she could feel the caffeine kick in a little bit already. This was one of her favorite ways to wake up.

   "Oh we have to stop and get dad some food though because I promised him I wouldn't make him eat that yucky hospital food."

Turning and looking at her brother once he sits down Rosetta gives a smile. Jay could always read her so well she guessed it was just a Pent trate to look deeper and see into someones heart.

   "Ha, you kidding me. I may have gotten a new ticket of my own but I still got my own problems to worry about."

Giving Jay a little elbow and leaning her head back Rosetta closes her eyes for a second. She was rather tired and she new she needed sleep of her own. She'd just promised Katie she would say the night so she wanted to keep off on her word.

Turning her head to Jay again she study's him for a long moment. She wondered if he would be making a trip back home again or staying around for a little while. It was a long shot but she was going to ask anyways.

   "Want to come back to the ranch and say hi to everyone?"

All I Can

Being helped to sit up, Jared bites his tongue to keep from laughing. Perhaps he felt sillier as a cover-up from any embarrassment. Leaning back against the tree so he doesn't fall over from lack of leverage from his legs, he shakes his head. "I'm not coming along that good... you didn't let me stay." 

A wry grin twitches on his lips, and he knows he better put on the brakes lest he really get slapped. Clearing his throat, he looks around and plucks a blade of grass, holding it between his fingers. "I wonder how long it's been since I enjoyed the feeling of grass," he muses. Lifting his eyebrows, he chuckles. "And that was a rather stupid statement. Although apparently that's a knack of mine this morning. Stupid statements. Grace, tell me to shut up before I really make a fool of myself." 

"Yes, no news is good news," Hunter agrees as he walks alongside Katie. "And by the way... if you really thought I'd be scared off, I'm gonna have to work harder at giving you a better impression of me." 

Glancing to his side, he gives her a smile. Realizing she'd led them to the dining room, he holds the door open for her. "After you, Melady... and then tell me what the days is gonna look like." 

Jay sighs, shaking his head as he leans back against the wall. "Stupid," he mutters under his breath. "I thought he knew better than all that. And if it's my fault for what I told him, I'm... I'm sorry."

Rubbing tired hands over his face, he gives Rosetta an apologetic look. "Give me a few minutes, will ya? I'm gonna go talk to him, even if I do have to wake him up."

"Jeff..." Jay lays a hand on his brother's shoulder.

"Hmm?" Jeff groggily opens his eyes and blinks, his mind rather foggy.

"Hey, Bro."

Realizing who it was, Jeff rolls his eyes. "Who called you?" he mumbles.

"Family," Jay states flatly. Shaking his head, he pulls a chair close to the bed and eases down to sit. "Came to see you on your death bed."

Jeff grunts. "Then you came to the wrong place. People around here wouldn't let me die if I paid 'em a million bucks."

"So that's what you've got? A death wish?"

"What else have I got?"

"A family that loves you very much." Jay says nothing more until Jeff turns to look at him. "We're all worried about you, Jeff. Now what's going on?"

"I got a bad heart. What more do you want?" Jeff pulls himself up a little. "Not my fault it decided to give out."

"Maybe not. But from what I hear, you're not exactly trying to keep it from giving out either."

Jeff shrugs. "So?"

"So you're killing yourself!" Jay stops, reminding himself to keep his tone down. "Look... I just want to know what's really going on here. This isn't like you."

Jeff picks at the hem of the bedsheet before throwing a glare at his brother. "I'm fine. I'm still alive. You've seen it for yourself. Now you can leave."

Jay's eyes narrow. "I drove half the night to come down here. You're stuck with me for longer than five minutes. Now...." He sits back and folds his arms. "Someone tells me that perhaps something I said to you while you were visiting has got you all feeling like you're worthless. That true?"

Jeff shrugs again. "I dunno."

"Well... regardless, I'm sorry."

Jeff's eyes move back to his brother curiously. "Why?"

"Because I shouldn't have called you down like I did."

"I thought I embarrassed you."

"You did. But... maybe that's just 'cause none of the rest of us have the guts to be as outgoing as you."

Jeff isn't sure what to think as he studies his brother. "I don't understand."

"You think you're weak. You think you can't offer anybody anything. The truth of the matter is, you've got something the rest of us don't."

"What's that?"

"Life." Jay smiles a little. "You have loved life since I can remember. No matter how sick you got, no matter what happened, you still loved life and you were never afraid to show it."

Jeff swallows hard. "I still embarrassed you and your family. How many other people have I-"

"The only people you've embarrassed are the ones that don't know how to live life like they should."

"That... includes you, ya know."

"I know it does. And I'm admitting it. So sometimes I think you should tone down your silliness. So when we're in public, sometimes I think you shouldn't kid around so much. But that's only because I'm not as brave as you to not be so stuffy that I forget life's about more than being serious all the time." 

Jeff really wasn't sure if Jay was being serious or if he was just using nice words to get him to feel better. "I don't know what to say."

"Say you'll stop this stupid nonsense of trying to prove something. You have nothing to prove, Jeff. I know life's been hard, I know you wanna do more than you can, but if you're gonna live any longer, you need to stop all this and... and go back to being the brother and uncle and father we all know and love."

Jeff swallows hard and eyes his bedsheets again. "Katie said I'm selfish for not taking care of myself."

"I suppose there's truth in that. She's selfish too though."

"What?"

"She wants to keep you around. She doesn't want to lose you. I guess we're all being selfish. You'll just have to forgive us for not wanting to give up one of our family members."

Jeff sighs deeply. "I'm tired, Jay... I'm tired of not doing what I want. I'm tired of having to watch everything I do to not overdo it. I'm tired of having Angel watching me like a hawk."

"So forgive us for caring. Look... I'm not trying to say I know how it feels, and I'm not trying to say it's easy because I know it's not. But you have so much more to offer than a healthy body. Out of us four brothers, your heart's the biggest, I guarantee. And whether any of us want to admit it or not, you're the example we know we should look up to." Jay nods solemnly. "I was wrong to be embarrassed. To tell you the truth, Josh got mad at me for chiding you - he thinks you're the coolest uncle ever."

Jeff has to give a bit of a wry grin at that one. "Yeah well... I guess sometimes I should tone it down a little." He chews on his lip. "I suppose I always figured if I could make somebody smile that... well, that I was worth something then. If I couldn't help out with work, at least I could provide some laughter. Maybe I just went overboard and-"

"You stop doing what you do best and I'll give you the next heart attack myself." Jay looks at him sternly. "We all like you just the way you are and so help me, Jeffrey Pent..." He huffs a sigh. "I'd strangle you now if it wouldn't set off the alarms in here."

Jeff grits his teeth to keep a laugh hidden. "Keep getting worked up like that, and you'll be the one in this bed instead of me."

Jay chuckles before shaking his head. "So do you accept my apology or not?"

"Of course I do. I'm still frustrated though."

"I know. But killing yourself isn't the answer."

Jeff nods. "Yeah... I don't think I'm gonna be working too much anymore. I know it was stupid."

"Eh... I probably would have done the same thing. You're just lucky you got a group of people around you that won't let you go."

"Not lucky... blessed."

Jay smiles. "Blessed." Seeing the tiredness in his brother's eyes, he lays off. "Now... if you promise not to die, I'll leave you be for a while."

Jeff scoffs. "Okay. You sticking around or heading home?"

"Figure I came all this way I might as well stop by the ranch. I'll see you again." Jay rises from his chair and gives his brother's arm a pat. "Be nice to the doctors."

"Yeah, yeah." Jeff waves him away.

Back out in the hall, Jay finds Rosetta and flops down next to her in a chair. "Well... I've done all I can. It's up to him now." Turning his head, he studies his sister's face. "This might have taken years off his life... don't let it takes years off yours too, eh?"

No news

Heading outside the room with Jay Rosetta was really happy to her brother. It had been a long time, a far to long of a time. Rosetta would of rather been chatting over coffee and seeing how the family was but she new right now it was just not the time.

Letting out a small sigh Rosetta gives a nod to Jay. She new he would be pretty much in the dark on what was going on but it would be easier to try and explain it all to him while he was here anyways. So in a way she was thankful it wasn't over the phone.

   "Well its pretty much like I said one the phone. Since he got back from you place he's been pushing himself harder and more. Finally his heart gave out. So he's had a heart attach, his blood pressure was through the roof, he was over exhausted like he hadn't slept in days and he was dehydrated."

Taking a deep breath Rosetta new she had said everything in one shot but she had to get it out while she was thinking about it. There were so many things that ran through her mind about everything that was going on right now she was lucky she new her own name.

Shaking her head and giving a smirk to Jay she lets out another small sigh. 

   "And the first thing he asked was when he was going home. He's gonna end up killing himself."

Seeing Hunter open the door Katie gives a smile. She'd hoped when she came to the room he would still be there and after last night not deiced to take off. It had been a crazy one for sure and she did feel bad.

   "Morning, Happy to see you haven't been scared off. I though maybe you would like some coffee."

Giving another smile to Hunter Katie leads the way out of his bunk when he's ready. Keeping her hands in her pockets Katie walks with Hunter. She wanted to head back to the hospital but spending a little time away before going back wasn't bad either.

   "No word but I guess no news is good new right?"

Being very pashent with Jared as he takes his time to get up Grace does her best to steady him and do her best to support him. Watching him she was pleased with her efforts but as he gives way and falls forward Grace was not ready and falls with him. Once hitting the ground though and catching her breath Grace can't help but laugh as she looks up at him.

   "I'd say ouch but this is kinda funny."

Looking up at Jared for a second Grace's eye catches Jared's and for a moment she can feel her heart flutter.  Giving a little shake of her head though Grace gives another little laugh before she shifts a little and helps Jared upright once again.

Clearing her throat and straightening out her dress giving another little laugh and a little flustered sigh. It was funny but she could sure tell her face now was beat red too.

   "Well....um all in all that was a really great first try. You really are coming along good Jared."

Paralyzed

Jay welcomes Rosetta into his arms, returning just as strong and long of a hug. Smiling as she pulls away, he's so glad she welcomed him so warmly. Despite being on good terms with everyone, he knew that he was an outsider in many ways, so knowing his sister wanted him there was a relief. 

"I'm glad to see you too." He nods to the hallway, leading her out of Jeff's room where they could talk louder without disturbing him. 

"So what's going on? I called Mick late last night and he said Jeff had a heart attack but thought everything was going to be okay?" 

Looking up at the door, Hunter quickly finishes tying his boot. Going to the door and opening it, he grins, seeing Katie. "Mornin', you. I was just ready to come looking for you." 

Stepping out onto the porch, he takes a deep breath of the fresh air. It really was different from city air. "So... what's on the agenda for today? Anything about your dad?" 

Perhaps Jared's smile was a little bigger since Grace couldn't see it. She'd known his comment would be coming... which made teasing and flirting with her all the more fun. 

Once outside, the sunshine felt so warm and good. Jared didn't know if he'd ever appreciated the outdoors before, but he certainly did now. Being cooped up inside 24/7 was getting to him. Arriving at the shady spot and having Grace offer him a hand, he looks at it for a moment before looking up at her a bit wide-eyed. Seriously? She wanted him to try getting himself out of the wheelchair? He could barely move his ankles, let alone his legs. He didn't know if he had any strength left in his muscles at all - probably not much. He hadn't yet been able to try walking at all. And yet she was asking him to try this? 

All those thoughts flash silently across his face and in his eyes, there was a bit of fear for the first time. He'd known she would push him but... but this? 

Swallowing hard, he looks down at the ground then back up at her again. He didn't know if he'd been a strong person before, or a wimp... but the adrenaline rushing through his veins right now told him that at least now, he was not one to turn down a challenge.

"Alrighty..." He musters up his bravery. "If you say so." 

Taking her hand, he braces his other on the arm of the wheelchair, not even quite sure how to do this. Somehow he does manage to turn just a little and hold himself up on his one arm while using Grace's hand to help him gain balance and leverage. Slowly, slowly, he pulls himself up, using his legs to keep himself upright, despite not even being able to feel what he was doing. 

Halfway there though, he can't hold himself anymore. With a little wail, he falls forward into Grace, knocking her to the ground. Only after landing does he take a moment to regain his senses and he realizes that he'd landed on top of her. Blinking, he raises himself up on his arms, but that's all he can do. Looking down at her, his cheeks flush with embarrassment, but that doesn't stop his wit. 

"Well now... this is just a little awkward." A sheepish grin emerges and he bites his lip. "Your beauty has left me rather paralyzed so, um... I'm gonna need a little help here getting off... that is, if you really want me off." His sheepishness turns into a teasing sparkle in his eye as he turns the situation around to his advantage. 

At least try...

Groggy and half between sleep and trying to stay alert Rosetta doesn't hear anyone come into Jeff's room. It's not till Jay lays a hand on her shoulder, and speaks that she even realize anyone was there. Giving a small jump and looking behind her Rosetta couldn't help the look of surprise. It had been a long time since she had seen her brother.

   "Jay!"

Standing Rosetta wraps her arms around her brothers neck and pulls him in for a big hug. Just holding him for a few long minutes she couldn't let go to soon for fear it would be a dream, and he would be gone. Finally though letting go and stepping back a little she smiles. 

   "Although I wish it was a different reason you were here, I am happy to see you."

Grace can feel her cheeks go red as she just shakes her head at Jared. Even in a bad mood he had that same flirtatiousness that seemed to come out. Moving around to the back of him Grace starts to push forward out of the room and down the hall noding to a few Dr, and nurses as she went.

   "It was to nice of a day out to bog myself down with pants, so I opted on the dress. Even though I did know I'd get some kind of comment from you. No that I mind to much though."

Exiting the hosptiel and going to a small picnic area  Grace doesn't stop at one of the tables but goes to a slightly shaded area in a far corner. Putting a blanket out she sents down the small basket she had been holding before holding her hand out to Jared to join her.

   "I'll help you out, you can lean on me but I want you to at least try for me."

She'd help Jared for sure but his muscles needed to get strong again so he had to at least try to move them. It wouldn't be easy this first time and she new it but she also had faith he would try and even if it was a little, it was better than nothing. 

 Finally rolling out of bed Katie stands and goes to the window. No one had called through the night so that was a good thing. Still though there was a looming cloud that just wouldn't go away that Katie hated feeling. Maybe thats why she stayed in bed a little extra the planned.

Pulling out her phone Katie's finger hovers over a number for a long second before finally hitting the button for a text.

My dad had a heart attack last night. He's doing ok just have to try and get him to slow down now. I just...thought you should know.

Sending the text and putting her phone down Katie felt strange for texting Jason. Why she wasn't sure but she did. It was only right he new though since she new Jason had been close to him too. She didn't exspect a responce from him but at least she had said something.
 
Finally getting herself together though she wonders out of her bunk and heads in the direction of Hunter's giving a knock on the door. Maybe he would like to grab some breakfest or coffee before working a little this morning. Than later they could back and see Jeff.

Pass

Eying Rosetta almost suspiciously at first, Jeff sighs. He knew she loved him and that's why she was here. It was just... hard. It was hard having his family see him like this. Weak. 

"I guess I kinda gave me a scare too," he admits. He hadn't said that to anyone else, and he probably wouldn't. Just her.

Shifting his hand to give hers a return pat, his eyes start to droop again. "You might wanna... settle in," he suggests. "Whatever they've got me on is gonna knock me out in about..." He looks up at her groggily. "Two minutes." 

As predicted, any further conversation was minimal as Jeff drifts off, exhausted from the day's ordeal. When the doctor checks on him later though, he expresses that it's best Jeff was asleep so he'd at least remain calm so his body could recover. 

Hunter laughs outright, taking Katie's comment as more of a joke than compliment. "You know it," he teases. Grabbing another fry, he hears Katie's stomach growl and grins, but doesn't comment. They'd both missed supper and he was glad she was at least eating a little bit. He knew how stress like this could mess up one's routines or even desire to eat, and he didn't want to see her go down any more than she already was. 

The rest of the ride home, Hunter makes light conversation - partially to lighten the mood and partially to keep himself awake. He hadn't gotten a rest at all after making so many miles to the ranch in the first place, so driving more at night was bound to make him sleepy. 

Once back at the ranch, he has Katie show him where he'd be staying, and has no problems getting settled in - only after he told her that if anything happened to come wake him up so he could go with her back to the hospital. 

As it was, there was only one instance in the night when the nurses and doctor came into Jeff's room. Everything happened so quickly though that by the time they explained to Rosetta that Jeff's blood pressure had suddenly dropped, he was stable again, without the need to call the family back. Utterly exhausted, Jeff slept the rest of the night through, too tired to complain or make any trouble, despite being poked and prodded and checked on multiple times...

It was early morning when Jay pulled into the hospital parking lot. He'd driven half the night to get here, but coffee and ice had kept him awake. 

After entering the hospital and asking a few questions, he heads down the hall and to the elevator. Reaching the right floor, he hunts for the correct room number. Finally finding it, he pauses at the door that was sitting ajar and glances inside. Seeing Rosetta first, a small smile appears on his face. He wasn't surprised that she was the one who had stayed here.

Entering slowly, he sees that Jeff is asleep in the bed. And for a moment, images of the past flash through Jay's mind. His brother looked pale and weak, just like he used to years ago when they didn't know what was wrong with him. It was a bit unsettling to see him like this, especially when he'd appeared well only a couple weeks ago. Jay was glad Jeff was here though where he was being taken care of.

Coming quietly to Rosetta's chair, he lays a gentle hand on her shoulder, trying not to startle her. "Pssst." He grins down at her. It had been way too long since he'd seen her. "Hey you," he whispers. "I got here as fast as I could..."

At the ranch, the sun was rising, as were most of those who had been up half the night already with worry. Hunter rolls over in his bed, suddenly realizing that sunlight was streaming through his window. His mind told him he needed to get up. He really should. He needed to see how Katie was. Find out how Jeff had fared through the night. Yet his body resisted. He wasn't used to getting up early, especially when he'd been so tired the night before. 

Finally rolling out of bed, he shuffles to the bathroom to take a shower and was soon dressed, pulling on his boots and wondering where he'd find Katie. 

Seeing Grace, Jared immediately perks up and gives her a smile. Though he wasn't feeling a whole lot better than yesterday, knowing she was here without an agenda to work on him was enough to give him something happy to concentrate on. 

"Of course I'm ready." He nods and doesn't resist as the male nurses help him out of his bed and into the wheelchair. It was pretty much routine now, and even though Jared didn't exactly like it, he wouldn't complain and risk being told he couldn't go outside.

Getting settled in, he gives Grace a once-over.  She was looking awfully pretty today. "You better get behind me and steer before I make a pass at you," he warns.

Thankful

Giving a tap on the hospital room Grace enters today waring a pretty Red and white sundress with sandles. It was another hot day and to wear anything but would be sad. This way she was cool and comfortable.

   "Good Morning I hope your awake."

Smiling as she walked over to the bed to male nurses were behind her with a wheel chair as well. Today was a good day and Grace hoped Jared was in a slightly better mood. She didn't like seeing down and yesterday had been a pretty bad day.

   "Ready or not here we come anyways, and outside we shall go...as long as your still feeling up to it."

Rosetta gives a nod to both her bothers and does the best smile she can. She new this was going to be rough but she was thankful for both there support, it helped make it just a little easier.

   "Alright guys be safe and if anything changes I'll give a call."

Watching her brothers leave and giving a little wave Rosetta lets out a small sigh before she gives a little knock and enters the room. Wondering over to the bed and seeing Jeff she give a little smile before patting his hand. It was hard seeing him laying there, in the bed, slow monitored beeping. Rosetta hoped they wouldn't be here anytime again soon but now here they were.

   "Hey Jeff. Good to see you alive, you gave us quite the scare."

It was hard to find words to say or not know what to say when she didn't know how Jeff was going to react. She just wanted her brother to know she was here and she cared. They all did and thats what this all broke down too. No one wanted to see anyone hurt.

Getting into the car Katie just looks out the window as Hunter starts driving home. The scenes pass by quickly as everything all blurs together. Letting out a small sigh Katie looks up at Hunter's comment and the sharp turn of the car. Seeing him pull into the fast food lot she quirks her eyebrow a little. 

Katie didn't feel very hungry but now that the stuff was ordered she couldn't refuse it. Taking her cold treat Katie takes a sip and it quiet for a moment before looking to Hunter. She was thankful for his gesture.

   "Thanks."

Falling quiet again Katie looks back out the window. Hearing Hunters comment about watching his figure though she can't help but give a small laugh and smile looking at him. It felt good to laugh even if it was a small one and it felt even better knowing he was trying to make her feel better.

   "Oh I guess I will have a few since your watching your figure and all. But I don't think you have much to worry about your still smoking hot."

Reaching into the bag and taking out a french fry Katie takes a nibble form it. As she does her stomach lets out a loud growl that lets her know just how hungry it was. Sinking down a little Katie pops the rest of the fry in her mouth before taking another drink.

Figure

As Rosetta tells Katie about the bunkhouse, Hunter is glad - he had forgotten that he didn't even know yet where he was staying on the ranch. In a way, he was impressed - even here with all this going on, Rosetta hadn't forgotten about him. 

He gives her a little nod. "Thanks, Rosetta. And if Katie needs to come back, I can bring her again, no problem." He knew the protective aunt wouldn't want Katie driving in the middle of the night, and he'd have no problem coming back here again if it would help. 

After saying goodbye to the three siblings, Hunter walks with Katie back down and outside, returning to her car. It was late in the evening by now, and the sun had already set. Sliding back behind the wheel, Hunter gives Katie a sidelong glance, but he doesn't ask how she is. He knew she probably couldn't answer that anyway. He just... felt so badly for her, and helpless, wishing there was something he could do.

Driving down the lit streets, Hunter thinks he remembers how to get back to the main road to the ranch again. Though paying attention to traffic, his eyes do wander just a little. Getting to a stop light preparing to go straight, he spots a familiar sight.

"Oh, hey, look." When the light turns green, he veers into the turning lane to make a sharp unplanned turn. "We can't pass that up." Steering into the drive-through of a latenight fast food restaurant, he stops the car at the large menu to talk into the microphone.

"Hey, I need a couple mocha shakes, please. Oh, and.... a large order of fries."

It's only minutes before they're back on the road again, this time with a cold treat and the mouth-watering aroma of fresh french fries. Keeping one hand on the wheel, Hunter sips his shake through a straw and nods his approval. "Not bad." Setting the cup down in a holder, he snitches a french fry, giving his hungry stomach something to work on. "Don't make me eat all these alone," he warns. "I'm watching my figure." 

"...yeah, he's not too happy about being here." Eric rolls his eyes and thumbs Rosetta towards the room. He and Trent had taken their turns, and Katie had been right. They knew part of it was Jeff just being tired, but he was quite definitely grouchy as well. 

Trent smirks a little. "When you go in there, watch it. He's not happy you're staying." 

Eric sighs and pats Rosetta's shoulder. "We'll head home then somebody will be here again in the morning so you won't be stranded here." 

Jared manages a grin. "Grass, huh? Sounds fun to me, if you really have time." 

He tried his best not to be grouchy the rest of the session, but once Grace was gone for the day, he just felt all the more depressed. He hadn't heard from Justin in days. He'd seen too much of the nurses here. He could tell his mother was growing weary of making trips here even though she'd never complain. And he was beginning to wonder if all this work on his legs really was worth it. 

Regardless, by the time morning rolls around, he's looking forward to Grace's company again and getting outside. 

Bunk Ten

Looking up after walking out Katie shakes her head a little at her Uncle's question. If she said he was ok was that the truth? He wasn't bad though, he was alive at at this point that was important it just seemed like a hard question to answer.

   "He's....alive so thats good. But still thick headed and not wanting to stay here as ever.  But I...told him it wasn't an option so...he's a little mad at me."

Katie walks over to Hunter and gives another nod. She again was thankful he was here even if she didn't say it. She was friend, stressed from everything that had been going on. From things back in Nevada, to here in Texas, life just didn't seem easy anymore.

   "I guess we are going to head home. I'll be back in the morning though. ok?"

Looking at her niece Rosetta gives a small nod. This was no place for Katie to stay even if she was worried. She'd come to the ranch to work on her own issues and releave a little stress. Staying here would not do that for her. 

   "Ok Katie, if anything else happens before tomorrow I'll call. Try and have a good night."

Turning back to the other Rosetta stops remembering something and turns back to Katie and Hunter. With everything going on she had completely forgot to let them know what bunk he could stay in.

   "Oh Katie, bunk ten is cleaned and ready for Hunter. The key is laying on my desk in the office."

Grace gives a nod to Jared. She could pretty much work with everything and small spaces were not a problem. If worse came to worst they could always go outside and work with that space. Grace new if there was a will there was a way and she was not ready to give up. 

Hearing him ask about  her coming again when she didn't have to work on him Grace gives a smile. At least he liked when she came that was better than nothing at this point. Even just a friendship was good therapy for him to keep his spirits up.

   "Well, I have off tomorrow...Maybe I could bring some more food for you to try out but if it is a nice day we can do it outside. Sitting in the grass will help yours legs believe it or not. The prickles from the blades of grass will help blood flow."


  

Chance

If Jeff could have one thing right now it was to not have people worry about him. He hated that. Nobody needed to worry. He didn't want to be the cause of stress. But he also knew there was no point in even trying to argue with anybody about that. Hearing Rosetta was going to spend the night, he wasn't so sure he liked that idea, but he says nothing. Better to not argue and get Katie any more upset. 

Returning the squeeze to her hand, he gives her a little nod. "I love you too, Katie, with all my heart." Managing a little smile he lets her go. "See you tomorrow." 

Out in the hall, the others wait their turns. Seeing Katie come out, Eric and Trent almost run into each other as their pacing circles collide. "How is he?" Eric asks. 

Over to the side, Hunter rises slowly from where he'd been sitting. Katie looked... tired. He was glad Rosetta had told her to go home - it looked like she could use the rest, and he was more than happy to drive her back home again. He'd be okay if she decided to stay, but for her sake, he was glad she'd be going home. Watching her uncles and aunt, he stays at a short distance, not wanting to get in the way. 

"Okay. Well, I don't have a clue what Mom's living room is like, but I'm sure she'll do all she can to do whatever it takes." She seemed to be that kind of woman, Jared had discovered. So caring, she'd bend over backward for anyone.  

Watching Grace go about her work on his legs, for the first time, Jared feels a little down about the whole thing. He'd known it would be a long hard process, but now weeks into it and seeing such small results, it was rather depressing. 

Resting his head back in his pillow, he sighs. "Any chance in you coming by again sometime when you don't need to work on me?" He'd really liked it the day she'd showed up to take him outside. He knew she had a busy schedule though and she had other people she worked with. He was nothing special. But the last few days he'd felt extra lonely. 

Realizing he maybe shouldn't have asked though, a little color comes to his cheeks and he glances down. "Maybe if you do, I can apologize for being a grump," he mumbles.

Love you

   "Don't worry dad I will worry about you because thats what I am meant to do."

Letting out a small sigh Katie couldn't tell if Jeff was trying to shoo her out of not. Maybe he didn't like what she had to say but at this point she didn't much care. If he thought she was being hurt fun and didn't care at all than he new her less than she though. Though the idea of being at odds with her dad hurt.

   "I didn't want to go yet, but I guess it would be best if I did. There are some other people that want to see you and Rosetta is going to spend the night."

Leaning in Katie gives Jeff a kiss on the cheek before pulling away a little and squeezing his fingers. She really did hate leaving him but maybe she was only making him more upset so it was for the best.

   "Love you Dad."

Having Jared yelp again and seeing his look Grace gives a small sigh. It really was good he was feeling the pain but the dagger looks he was giving her kind of was making her feel like a monster or something. 

Letting his leg down she take the heating pad and ice placing one on one leg and the other for the other one. She would let them cool and warm for not than work a little again once the muscles relaxed. Hopefully they would being to start working on rotations leg exercises.

   "Well as long as you have a decent size living room and you mom doesn't mind I move things around a little as long as I put them back I can pretty much work with anything. I have items I use when I go out of the office so its not like its putting me out of my way or anything."

Grouchy

Hearing he was going to be here for a couple days, Jeff bristles. He was too tired to argue, but he wasn't happy. Not that he'd really expected anything else. 

The rest of Katie's little speech hurt just a bit. She seemed to be rather perturbed at him for all this. As if he'd planned to have a heart attack. All he'd wanted was to put in a good day's work. It wasn't like he'd done this on purpose. His grip on her hand loosens a little. 

Left with no time to argue, he simply nods at her mention of food. He knew what hospital food was like and anything else he was sure to be grateful for. Although at the moment, the thought of food just made him feel nauseous. He wouldn't tell her that though. If she wanted to bring him something tomorrow, he wouldn't stop her. 

"Well... you have a good night then." His eyes droop a little again, but it was more of her chiding that made him figure she'd want to leave, not that she'd implied she'd go home and come back tomorrow. "Guess I'll see ya tomorrow then." He pats her hand. "And don't spend your time worrying about me." 

Jared perks up a little at Grace's explanation of how they might do things. "Really? I was afraid I might get stuck with somebody else." 

Giving a yelp as she hits a nerve, he wishes he could move his leg - he'd yank it out of her reach if he could. He didn't know why he felt grouchy today. He'd been fighting it ever since his mother's morning visit. She hadn't brought bad news. He'd learned a little more about himself. So what was his problem? He knew it was probably just the fact that even though he'd learned more, it had sparked no memories. The only memory he had thus far was the accident, and he'd really like something else to think about. 

Fighting the urge to complain at Grace again, he grits his teeth and just throws her another look before trying to move on. "So are there requirements for being able to have you come to a home? I mean like space or something?"

Tomorrow

Looking down at her dad Katie and give a little scoff. She new he would ask about leaving but at this point even if someone said they would pay to get Jeff out of here she would decline. He needed to be here and watched over. He had to get better.

   "No they aren't and its a good thing too. You need to stay here to recover for a few days and make sure everything is alright. Don't even think about telling me everything is fine either because you just had a heart attack because you over worked yourself. So no, things are not fine."

Taking in a deep breath Katie hadn't meant for that all to come out it just...had. She just wanted to beat Jeff to the punch of arguing before it even started. It was set in stone he was staying here for a few days and that was that. Even if they had to sedate him again to get him to calm down and relax.

   "Tomorrow maybe I'll slip you some good food though. I wouldn't wish the food here on my worst enemy."

Continuing to work on Jared's legs Grace listens to everything he had to say. When she had come in this morning she new something was different about him. He wasn't in the best of moods and she guessed it was from finding out more memories, or the lack of memories. She kept a smile on her face though setting up a mental note in her mind that Jared was going through a lot so any attitude he might show her was just part of it all.

   "Digging deep is good so...if your feeling pain yes we are, and yes we will continue."

Grace continues to smile as she lets Jared's one leg relax while she started on the other. She would go back and forth a few more times but between them let them relax a little too so as to not over due it. Pain was good, but to much at once was not.

   "Insurance is good, and I can always come to you for the PT. I have a bunch of people outside the hospital I have seen and gone to there house. Doesn't bother me any as long as if doesn't bother them."

Horrible

Struggling to stay alert, Jeff sees Katie approach and feels her hand in his. Forcing his eyes to stay open, he looks over at her, giving her a small smile. "Hey, Kiddo." His voice was quiet... weak. His hand gives hers a squeeze in return. "Yeah... the doc told me I was pretty lucky." 

His eyes fall shut for a moment before he opens them again. It felt as though he'd awoken from a deep sleep and was still stuck halfway in a dream. He remembered collapsing at the ranch then waking up in an ambulance where he'd given the medics a hard enough time that they'd sedated him. Then the last thing he knew was waking up here and being told he'd had a heart attack. 

"Guess you're still stuck with me," he muses. "This bed is horrible though..." He pauses to take a deep breath, still fighting the fog. "They gonna let me go sleep in my own one or what?"

"So apparently I was in marketing. I traveled a lot, tried to sell stocks in the business and get other businesses to sign on with the company I worked for." Jared sits in his hospital bed and sighs as Grace works on his legs. "I guess my mom's been in contact with them and explained what happened. Sounds like I had insurance, which should cover everything, but my job position had to be filled immediately. So I'm out of that job - not that I wanted it anyway. I don't have a clue about anything anymore anyway."

He winces as pain shoots down the back of his leg. "Yipes... digging a little deep there today, are we?" He quirks an annoyed eyebrow, but he didn't mean to snap at Grace - he knew it was good he was feeling pain - he was actually able to move all his toes now and just barely his ankles now too. 

"At any rate... I guess I'm gonna be released in a couple days. Mom said she'd take care of me but we're gonna have to figure out this whole therapy thing since I can't drive myself anywhere."

Not Strong

Taking everything in Katie can feel her own knees get weak and leans into Hunter a little more knowing he would keep her standing, she again was thankful he was there. Most of the stuff the Dr said didn't come as a shock but still hearing it from someone else mouth hit hard. 

   "I will probley be staying with him the night. Since I am family I know that I can do that. I wouldn't feel right leaving him here alone, someone should be with him."

Katie pipes up to the Dr. She new there shouldn't be much of a problem if one of the family members did want to stay with Jeff as long as it was just one and not a while room full. Her dad wasn't going to be happy he was here, and if it was her she wouldn't want to be here alone.

Looking over to her niece and giving her shoulder a little friendly squeeze her heart went out to her. She understood all to well why she wanted to stay and how much it hurt Katie to hear all this stuff about her dad. This was no place for her to stay though with her own condition trying to recover.

   "You go see him and talk with him for a little while. Than let Hunter take you home so you can help him settle in a little more. I'll stay with Jeff the night and than tomorrow you can come back and see him ok? I promise if his condition changed I will call."

Glancing back at her Aunt Katie wanted to argue that she should be the one to stay but if she did that what would happen with Hunter? He didn't even know where he was staying the night yet. Katie new if she did say he would understand but and this was more important but maybe Rosetta was right.

   "Alright...that sounds ok."

....A few moments later Katie was walking down the hall to her dads room. She said she would go first and see Jeff as to not try and over whelm him right now. Everyone was just worried about not stressing him out anymore that need be at the moment. He was going to do enough of that on his own when he found out he had to stay a few days.

Entering the room Katie slowly walks to the bed. Seeing her dad hooked up to all the different things and the low beeping from one monitor or another. It made her sad to see everything and it made her own heart hurt very much. She always thought of her dad as strong but seeing him in this position now because he put himself there...Katie wasn't so sure anymore.

Reaching out and taking Jeff's hand in her own Katie holds it giving it a little squeeze. She did her best to hold her tears for now at bay. She new it would upset her dad more to see her like this so now she tried to be the strong one and keep her feelings to herself. 

   "Hey Dad, you're gonna be ok."

Heart Attack

Joining Rosetta in the waiting room, Eric and Trent take up two chairs, although they wind up also taking turns pacing, unable to sit still the whole time. Both felt they should say something to someone, but at the same time, what could be said? No one knew what was happening. No one know how bad this was. Waiting was always the worst. 

Hunter lets Katie lean into him, not minding at all. He didn't like seeing her like this. It all felt so unfair. She was going through so much already - to have her dad in the hospital like this was just one more blow. 

Looking down into her eyes, he smiles and gives her an extra squeeze, is hand rubbing her shoulder as he keeps his arm around her. "Hey, you don't need to thank me. I wouldn't want to be deserted back at the ranch anyway." He winks. "Can't say that I like hospitals but... I'm glad I could be here for ya." 

It would be what felt like an eternity of waiting, pacing, coffee, sitting and more pacing before finally, finally a doctor joins them. He introduces himself as Dr. Mettler and after discovering that three were siblings and one was a daughter, he knew to whom he needed to speak. Looking to Katie first, he purses his lips. "Your father is quite a lucky man. He did suffer a heart attack but it was mild and didn't cause an awful lot of damage. However, he was already weak and this ordeal has certainly done him no good." 

He folds his arms and sighs, addressing everyone now. "I received medical information from the physician at your ranch, and it indicates he's had a heart condition, along with other problems for quite a while. As such, I was surprised to learn the physical strain he'd been under the last couple weeks." 

Eric rolls his eyes. "It's not like we didn't try to stop him. Stubborn brute." 

"Ah. I see. He didn't want to slow down?" 

"You kidding?" 

Dr. Mettler nods, now understanding. "Well, I would advise that if he won't listen to his family, he needs to be put on medication that will force him to slow down." 

Trent exchanges a glance with Rosetta, not liking the sound of that.

Dr. Mettler continues. "While thankfully this heart attack didn't cause much damage, every little bit is bad, especially with a heart like his. It's been weak for quite a while and like any weak muscle, any trauma is cause for concern." Pausing, he takes as breath. "Jeff pushed himself to the point of severe fatigue, so it's not just his heart that's been affected. He also suffered a heat stroke and basically sheer exhaustion, to put it plainly." 

Eric sighs, remembering how they'd all tried to get Jeff to quit working so hard. "Is he going to be okay?"

"I believe he is, yes. I want to keep him here for a couple days though to be sure we didn't miss anything. We need to monitor him and make sure there's not risk for another attack." 

"Will it take him long to recover?" 

"He's probably going to feel very weak and tired for several weeks, but that's normal. The most important thing is keeping him quiet. Apparently that might be difficult, but it's imperative that he rests. When I release him, I'll have a list of things he shouldn't do, such as not lifting anything over five pounds for the next six weeks - that kind of thing."

Trent rolls his eyes. "Oh he's gonna love that," he mutters under his breath. 

Eric shoots him a withering look before turning back to the doctor. "May we see him?" 

"You may. He's on the third floor, room sixty-two and may or may not be awake. Please though... keep your first few visits brief and by all means, remain quiet and try not to upset him." Dr. Mettler gestures out into the hall. "If you have any questions, the nurse's station is right there. I must see to another patient now." 

Once the doctor was gone, Eric turns to the others, particularly looking at Rosetta and Katie. "We all wanna go see him or you wanna take turns?"

Waiting

Turning to see her brother Rosetta was slightly surprised not that Trent wanted to go but that he piped up and it with a strong will that he was going and driving. That was one thing Rosetta was thankful about with her family that no matter what they were always close by and always stuck together.

   "Alright Trent you drive. I'm to shook up to even attempt to drive right now."

Walking behind Trent and making sure Eric was close to Rosetta heads to the car and gets in. Once there were off the ride was very quiet. Rosetta didn't have much to say as she just continued to say silent prayers for her brother.  She new it was in God's hands but she just didn't want Jeff gone to soon.

Getting to the hospital and inside Rosetta started to become slightly agitated as they tried to get information on Jeff but were left with nothing. She'd rather know something than nothing at all at this point. Anything to go by, cling onto and give them hope.

Letting out a frustrated sigh Rosetta enters the waiting room. There was no point in pushing for info if they were going to just continue shooting her down. Looking at Katie Rosetta shakes her head a little bit before sitting down. She felt bad for her neice but would give her the space she probley needed. Right now she had her friend and that gave Rosetta the comfort that she would be ok.

Sitting in the waiting room Katie puts her head in her hands as a few tears roll out of her eyes. The day had started out so good and now...now it was just messed up again. Why hadn't Jeff taken it easy like she wanted him too. If only he had listened maybe this wouldn't of happened.

Feeling Hunter's arm around her Katie leans into him and just leans her head on his chest trying to soak up the comfort while she could. It was nice to have someone there with her that she could find comfort in.

   "Yeah, he's a fighter. Thick headed like the rest of us Pent's too."

Katie finally looks up at Hunter and study's hid eyes for a long moment. It had been nice he had come with her and after only just getting there too. He didn't hesitate at all or think twice about it. He was a really good friend and Katie was so thankful.

   "Thanks for coming with me Hunter. It means a lot."