O.O O.O My Bad? O.O O.O

Finishing up with work at a decent time Angelica new Reese was running a little late and that was ok. It would give her time to go home shower up, and go grab something for dessert for them. It was the least she could do for Reese cooking the meal. Now she just had to figure out what to get.

...A half hour later Angelica was at Reese house. Giving a knock on the door before letting herself in she new it was ok like so many times before. She didn't have a key yet but that was ok with her. That was more of a think to look forward to once Reese and herself were married.

   "Honey I'm home."

Smelling the food that was coming from the kitchen Angelica's stomach growled. It smelled so good like most of the time it did. Her mouth just watered the smell alone. Following the sent to the kitchen Angelica smiles seeing Reese at the stove. It was a cute sight watching him cook and it always seemed like he was enjoying it too.

Entering more Angelica sets the dessert down on the counter before coming over to Reese. Putting her arm around him but standing to the side so he could still cook she smiles leaning in to give him a kiss on the cheek before pulling away. Some day this would be normal, something that would happen every day...one day Angelica looked forward to it.

   "Hey there...So for dessert I brought raspberry cheesecake. It's homemade just not by me since I didn't have to much time today. I still hope you enjoy it though."

As Jason leans close Misty smiles till his lips meet hers. Just letting the emotions flow remembering Rick was in the room seemed lost in the shuffle. Bringing her hand to the back of his head and keeping him close. Her skin tingled, and she felt the chills up her spine...she wondered if this had been written in her life from the start. She new God always had a plan from what she'd gathered from church, and it was always his way but he didn't want bad things to happen, but he made good from them. So was this the plan all along or was it a kink in the rope that god unkinked. 

No matter if it was or not one thing was for sure Misty new God was in control even if she did question him sometimes.  Pushing everything else form her mind Misty just continues the kiss a few more long seconds before finally breaking away.

   "Nine o'clock can't come soon enough."

   "I really think I know what we need to put a doggy door in...Hey Hey...just because I drive cars and work on them for a living dosn't mean I don't know how to do that."

Walking up and down the isles Ryan grabs a few things here and there she might need while holding the phone to Eli with her other hand. She had off today and Eli, Tal, and herself were going to try and install a new doggy door for Zidan. They wernt to sure it was going to work but they were going to at least try. The backyard was fenced in so it made sense to let him go in and out when he wanted too.

   "...I...I hear him in the background. Do you have me on speaker Eli? I swair..."

Coming around the courner and not really paying much never mind to where she as going runs smack dab into someone. Taking a few steps backwards she shakes it off a little bit.

   "I am so sorry I didn't mean to run into you....Alec?"

Ryan's voice was laced with question even if she wasn't sure why. Why wouldn't Alec be there or couldn't be there. He had free rain to walk where ever he wanted but Ryan just didn't know why she had to be the one to bump into him.

   "I'll call you guys back when I am done shopping."

Hanging up her phone and sticking it into her pocket Ryan shifts her weight a little bit. She wasn't quite sure what to say or do Alec was the last person she'd expected to run into to let alone knowing what to even say to him.

  "Hi, sorry for running into you like that I...wasn't paying much attachen to where I was going. I got your message the other day."

Ryan gives Alec a once over, he looked so thing, and pale it made her heart hurt just a little to think how far he had fallen. His voice on the phone the other night had been on thing and now seeing him in this start it was a whole nother one. Little hatred lingered it was now sorrow, sorrow that things had turned so bad by his own doing.

   "Thanks....for saying your sorry and I forgive you."

Shifting again Ryan wasn't sure what else to say. She'd never had a hard time talking to someone or felt uncomfortable around anyone but for some reason this just felt awkward and she didn't like it one bit. 

   "I better get going, this doggie door wont build itself for the new pup."

Straightening a little and taking a few steps past Alec Ryan for a second lays a hand on Alec's arm.

   "Take care of yourself Alec."

Breaking her look at him Ryan looks down for a second before continuing on and down another isle. She needed hinges, just hinges and than she was done. Than she could go home, work on the door.

Hearing that Hunter would think about it Katie gives a little nod. She couldn't ask for more than that and at least a thinking about it was better than a straight out no. She liked that answer and was happy she'd asked.

   "Alright, thats good enough for me. Thanks Hunter."

Setting her plate aside and cuddling down with Hunter a little more in the bed Katie was so comfortable just being here next to Hunter. 

   "I don't mind, I might just fall asleep with you again. It's to comfortable not to."

  

Familiar Car

Smiling, Reese checks his watch. "Okay, good. How about... seven...ish? That will force me to finish up here at a decent time tonight." 

Tossing Angelica a wink, he disappears again, this time for good as he does make it all the way back to his office this time. Having plans for supper really would help him get out of the office at a decent time. So many times he was here late in the evening or even into the early morning hours. Maybe part of it was simply being overloaded with work. And maybe part of it was the preference of working rather than going home to an empty house. Each day he looked forward more to going home to Angelica instead...

...The scent of cooking meat and vegetables wafted through the house, beckoning anyone's mouth to water. Reese had not gotten home as early as he wanted to, which meant Angelica would be coming any minute and he was still standing at the stove, but he was pretty sure she wouldn't mind. Dressed down in his jeans and comfy shirt, he shifts the pan over the burner, tossing the thin strips of steak and chopped veggies as they sizzled. Checking the rice, he finds it not done yet and puts the lid back on that pot to let it cook a little bit longer. The third pan held his "secret" sauce - his ultimate reason for having decided on stir fry tonight. Stirring it lightly, he tastes it and nods with satisfaction before pouring it over the meat and vegetables as they steam and hiss.

"Nine o'clock. Got it." Jason nods his agreement. Misty was so thoughtful, giving him time for both things tonight. He did appreciate it.

Finishing up his lunch, Jason didn't want to return to work, but he knew he had to. After cleaning up the corner of Misty's desk where he'd been eating, he sighs, standing and stretching. Looking down at her, he grins. "I'll see you later." 

Bending, he leans one hand on her desk, letting the other cradle the back of her head as he aims for her lips. Letting his kiss remain for a few moments, he lets it deepen as much as she wanted, not caring that Rick was still standing over at the counter. 

Ambling down the sidewalk, Alec didn't mind the long walk. He was getting used to hoofing it all over town anyway. Not that he didn't want to get his bike going again, but for now, at least this was good exercise. 

Coming to the home supply store, he's just ready to push the door open when his eyes spot a familiar red and white car parked out front. His heart leaps into his throat and he freezes in his tracks. Ryan. It had been a few days since he'd called her and left that message. He'd been feeling a little bit better since then... at least well enough that Misty hadn't yet found him a crying mess again. Now though... now all those emotions come flooding back at once. 

Swallowing hard, he hesitates, then backs up to let someone else in the store ahead of him. Part of him wanted so badly to go inside and deliberately find Ryan so he could just see her. And part of him wanted to tuck tail and run. The last time he'd seen her, she'd been trying to beat the living tar out of him - and rightly so. But the pain from that day still lingered.

Realizing that just standing outside was stupid, he finally takes a deep breath and goes inside. He might not even run into her. He'd just find what he'd come here for and what ever happened would happen. Stopping at the main aisle, he scans the signs hanging from the ceiling that ran the length of the store. He was looking for plumbing... plumbing...

Church? Now that was something Hunter wasn't expecting to hear right now. Lifting his head from Katie's shoulder, he leans it back against the wall again before taking a potato chip to chew on. Church, huh? How did Katie get from his nightmares to church? Was she trying to connect those things, or was it just a random thought? He couldn't help but wonder.

His fingers toy with hers as his mind tries to sort through what he was feeling. It wasn't easy though. "Maybe," he finally answers. It was a few days until Sunday. And he knew good and well that Angel wouldn't complain if he went - he'd figured out that much at least. He could be at death's door and no one here would begrudge him church. The question now was really if he wanted to or not, and he wasn't sure he knew that answer.

"I'll think about it." That's all he would promise. 

Working on some of his fruit, Hunter soon realizes that somehow his hunger had diminished, leaving him without the appetite to finish what was on his plate. He didn't know if it was the conversation or the pain killers, but either way, he couldn't stomach any more. 

Setting aside his plate, his head returns to the wall and he sighs, closing his eyes. His hand still rested in Katie's, and his thumb absentmindedly runs through her palm. Flashes of the day's events run through his mind and he again he felt the terror of drowning. The fear of falling down that bank. The feel of the cold water. Being caught with no escape. That haunting voice. 

A new wave of emotions hit and Hunter isn't so sure he's going to keep that tear from escaping or not. It felt rather stupid to him to be reacting like this. After all, he was fine, everyone was fine, he'd hurt his leg but that was it. 

Realizing his hand had tensed around Katie's, he quickly releases it before reaching for his lemonade to take a sip. The last few minutes had been lost to silence again. "Guess I'm still tired," he muses, trying to move on from his own thoughts, forcing a chuckle. "Stay here much longer and I might just fall asleep on you."

Sunday

Angelica lets out a long sigh and gives a nod of her head. She understood what Reese was saying and she agreed with him. Right now it was like being stuck between a rock and a hard place with the whole Carson issue. Having him come in and work could weigh on many things, keeping him away even more.

   "Friendly conversation never hurt anyone and as long as we don't make accusations we don't have to worry about getting in trouble. If He's clean he has nothing to worry about."

Giving a soft smile to Reese as he stands and walks to the door Angelica new even if she didn't want to she should get back to work herself. Cases wouldn't write themselves, clients plea bargens wouldn't just form she had to focus on that.

As Reese exits Angelica looks down at her desk picking up her pen. About to start writing she stops as Reese enters once more and looks up to him giving a sly smile. Hearing his invitation she gives a little nod. Reese was a good cook and she liked to eat his food, not to mention being in his company was even better really.

   "You didn't, but now that you have my answer is yes. I'd love to come have dinner with you."

Thinking for a second as she sucks on an ice cube. She didn't want to say anything to early and cut Jason's dinner short, and she didn't want anything to late keeping Alec awake. Than again Alec seemed to like watching the movies and spending the time with them so it worked out.

   "How about nine? That way you can enjoy your dinner with the guys and it wont be to late after the movie."

Misty was sure already she would fall asleep though. She always did when watching a movie all snuggled up on the couch. Really it couldn't be helped Jason was comfortable and the whole atmosphere was just relaxing.

Taking a bit of her watermelon and sitting there with Hunter Katie felt comfortable and and not awkward in the slightest.  Even in the quiet moment it just felt good like a million words were being said and there was no sound at all. It was an unspoken connection but much different than what she had been use to, it was normal.

Feeling Hunter rest his head on her shoulder Katie gives a smile before leaning her head on top of his. Just looking off into the room her free hand finds his locking fingers with him.  She still felt so happy he was ok, it was like she really had to make sure he was there.

   "No dreams is a good thing. Now you can get some sleep."

Katie thinks for a moment going over Hunter's dreams and than what really happened. It was all strange how it worked out and Katie couldn't help but wonder if there was a bigger picture to this whole thing or not. Maybe just maybe it was worth seeing if Hunter wanted to spend a little more time together.

   "I know your directed  not to move to much but would you like to go to church Sunday with me? Maybe after we could have a light lunch....just dont tell Angel."

Smile Again

Reese stops his pacing, hooking his thumbs in his pocket and sighing. "I don't know... It's none of my business, but I've never gotten the impression that Misty couldn't keep Carson satisfied, no matter what his needs were. And I know there's a whole lot more to Carson that just a need for a woman... at least I thought there was. Now I'm not so sure."

Leaning against Angelica's desk, he just pauses in thought for a few moments. "I really respected him, ya know? I didn't like him at first... didn't think he was good enough for my niece but... after a while, he proved that he was a real man, deserving of respect. I saw him work hard, get his feet under himself, and I thought for sure if I'd ever seen a man in love, it was him." He shakes his head. "Then this. I don't know if that means I was wrong about him all along, or if he just snapped."

He shrugs lamely. "I've needed him on a few cases lately but haven't wanted to call him in. I suppose that's my personal feelings getting in the way, and I've used the suspicion of the Agency be my excuse. I can't fire him for leaving my niece, though I'd like to." 

Thinking another few moments, he finally straightens and shakes his head again. "I guess I'll just have Pete keep on tailing him for a little while longer and if we still suspect something, bring him in for that friendly conversation you were talking about." 

Nodding his head decisively, he knows he needed to focus on some other work and if he didn't get moving, he'd never get it done. "Thanks for your help..." 

Wandering to the door, he exits just to stop and poke his head back in again. "Did I ask you over to my place for dinner? 'Cause if I did, I can't remember, but if I didn't, then I meant to."

Flinching and rubbing his arm, Jason smirks at Misty, though humor danced in his eyes. Finishing up the last part of his sandwich and hearing about ice cream, he grins. "Sounds good to me."

He knew that having Alec there meant far less cuddle time, but he was enjoying time spent with Misty no matter what they did. Whether it was eating lunch, making out on his couch or just sitting and watching a movie together. He liked it all, and it would be hard to choose any one thing to be his favorite. Besides all that, as far as tonight went, he also knew that Alec did need friendship, and even if he never would have dreamed it possible, he was starting to like Alec's company too. Come to think of it... he was enjoying a lot of things lately. Ever day he had less trouble deciphering his emotions, and every day it was easier to know what he was feeling - both negative and positive.

"I'm grabbing supper with Rusty and Will, so dessert and movie at your place would be perfect. What time?"

Jeff chuckles and lets Rosetta give him support on the short walk to the dining hall. Even if he was frustrated with his weakness, he appreciated her willingness to help, and... maybe as they walked slowly side by side, he realized just how little time he really spent with his sister anymore. Though they both lived here and saw each other every day, interaction had somehow... dwindled. These quiet moments were perhaps savored more than they used to be.

Getting to the dining hall and setting in across from the little family, Jeff does his best to remain alert and interact for a while. He could always sleep more later. 

"Only thing I know about Hunter is what Angel told me before I took my nap. Dislocated knee, mild concussion and some bumps and bruises."

Mick nods. He'd spoken to Angel as well, after he'd heard about the accident. "Yeah, she said he'd have to stay off his leg for a couple weeks at least, then might need some therapy to get his strength back since he did a number on the cartilage and tendons. Otherwise, though, seems he's going to be just fine."

Jeff chews his hamburger slowly, although he really wasn't all that hungry. His eyes drift down to his plate. "Good." 

Mick cocks his head, glancing to Rosetta then back to Jeff. It was pretty obvious that his brother-in-law was feeling badly about the whole thing - maybe even guilty. "Sounded like it was a pretty freak thing that happened..." 

When there's a pause, Jeff realizes he's still being spoken to and finally looks up again. "Hmm? Oh. Yeah... yeah, it was. Happened so fast... everything that could go wrong did go wrong. Bonzai doesn't usually spook, but he did. Hunter shouldn't have lost his stirrups, but he did. After he fell, he held on by the reins and they shouldn't have broke, but both of them did. He should have been able to stop his momentum down the bank but he couldn't. And the undertow of the river shouldn't have been that strong...but it was. It was like that water was just waiting for him." 

"Naw - you know better than that." 

"I know. It was just... strange. I thought for sure we'd lost him for as long as he'd been under. I think Katie did too." It had certainly been frightening, to say the least.

Mick nods slowly and takes another bite of his hamburger. "Well, I guess God was stronger than the river then, huh?" 

Jeff finally grins a little. "Yeah, I guess so. I'm just glad Katie was there - I'm not sure I could have acted as fast as she did." 

"Mm... adrenaline will do that to ya. No use in thinking about what it could have been like or how it could have been avoided though. It happened... and now we have something to be thankful for."

"What's that?" 

"That all three of you are okay. It could have been you or Katie who took that fall, too." 

Jeff hadn't thought of that, but he supposed Mick was right. What if it had been him? Or Katie? Seemed it was just a morning of being at the wrong place at the wrong time. "Yeah... I guess you're right." 

"Who knows... maybe there will be good come out of this yet anyway." 

Jeff scoffs. "I'm sure not from Hunter's point of view. I don't know how long he was planning to stay, but it's been about two weeks now and I'm guessing that's about as long as he wanted to be away from Nevada. He's not gonna be able to ride that bike of his - safely at least - until he can at least walk on his knee."

"Mm-hmm." Mick hands a napkin to BJ so he can wipe some ketchup off his cheek before turning back to Jeff. "I figure that means he'll have to be here another three weeks, and that's if he heals up well." 

"I guess we could offer to take him back. Trailer his motorcycle." 

"I... think maybe I'll hold off on that offer for a little while." Mick exchanges a quick glance with his wife. He hadn't talked to her about this yet, so he hoped it was alright with her. "If he asks, one of us can get him back to Nevada. But... I have a feeling he won't, and I'd just as soon keep him here as long as he needs." 

Jeff thinks he understands and nods. "Yeah, I kinda got the idea maybe he needed this place more than he let on." 

"...And maybe somebody else needs him to be here too." 

A little smile forms on Jeff's lips and he concentrates on his food once more. "She's awfully happy around him. It's good to see her smile again." 

"Sure is." Mick finishes his burger and looks to BJ's plate before pointing at it. "Finish up those last few bites, and you can have a brownie for dessert."

Leaning his head back too, Hunter quietly chews his food. He always got a nice warm feeling when Katie talked like that... about how she liked spending time with him. He wasn't sure he'd ever figure out why she had such an affect on him. She just... did. She was different from other women he knew - he'd known that from the start. She... accepted him for who he was, faults and all, while at the same time not compromising her own moral standards. That took a strong character, and maybe that's what he found most attractive about her. It was a quiet, beautiful strength, even if sometimes it was hidden under trial and uncertainty.

Taking another bite of his hamburger, Hunter had to admit it was good. He wasn't sure who had done the actual grilling, but whoever it was knew what they were doing. Glancing down at his plate, he studies the food... how good everything was. His eyes roam this room... where everything was nice and clean and offered freely. His clothes washed without question or complaint. Food - good food - given as if to their own family member. Even medical care, offered without hesitation or demand of payment.

And quite suddenly a lump in Hunter's throat makes it impossible for him to swallow another bite. He quietly takes a sip of lemonade instead, trying to keep these sudden emotions under control. 

Resting his head to the side, it leans gently against Katie's, thinking about the day and everything that had happened. "I didn't have a nightmare when I slept this afternoon," he comments quietly. Though they hadn't spoken of it, he knew that surely she had seen the similarity with today's accident and his explanation of the nightmares. "Maybe... since it really happened... the nightmares are finally over." 

Roger

Gathering the pictures up and closing the folder Angelica didn't want to look at them anymore. Even if there was something odd there it made her stomach churn and she didn't like it. To see Carson fall so far away Agency or not it sent a pang to her heart and hurt.

   "Do you really think he would of left Misty for another reason besides the Agency? I mean you never know what happens behind close doors...."

Angelica cocks her head and looks up at Reese again for a long moment. It'd hard to believe anyone would leave Misty though. She'd been so kind and loving, they way she acted with Carson you could tell how in love her was and how much she enjoyed being his wife. She'd been content.

   "...But I just don't see that. Misty just seems so loving and caring. This whole thing just leave me confused. I keep searching for a good answer but all I come up with it just because."

Giving a laugh Misty trys to hid it but just can't. Seeing Jason's cheeks go red it was way to cute and unusual for her to pass up the moment for a chuckle. Seeing Rick point at Jason though and than look at her talking about him coming to get his blood tested tomorrow Misty gives a nod.

   "Roger, I'll drag him in here if I have too."

Looking back to Jason and giving his arm a whack Misty goes back to her chair and sits down. Though her cheeks were red Misty didn't mind much. With Jason things where different, softer, but at the same time satisfying and she liked it.

Making sure Rick was back at the counter Misty leans forward to Jason a little bit as a grin forms on her face. Keeping her voice low Misty didn't want Rick to hear to much and yell at her for being a bad influence on Jason.

   "So, ice cream, my place, tonight, movie?"

Giving Jeff's arm a little pat Rosetta smiles. Holding out her own arm she lefts him link it with hers as they exit the bunk house. Rosetta didn't mind helping Jeff, she new he'd over done it today but it had been for a good reason and she couldn't be mad.

   "We are definitely not elderly but I will help you to the mess hall anyways. After all I'd hate to have you fight with the ground."

Walking slowly across the yard Rosetta didn't mind. She liked just enjoying the time outside, and the light chat with Jeff. It was nice and she was in no hurry. Tonight's dinner was a good one but it would be waiting there. Time spent with her brother was nice even if it was just a little walk.

Finally getting to the mess hall and getting inside and settled Rosetta sits across from Jeff and next to Mick with BJ on her other side. The food was good, the company was good what more could one really ask for. 

Just watching Jeff though she could see how tired he still was and she felt badly for him. She new it was hard to go day in and day out always being tired. It wasn't till you slowed down that, that feeling went away.

   "Any word on how Hunter is?"

Sitting down on the bed next to Hunter Katie props one of the pillows up against the wall and leans on it. Hearing about how sore he was but how much more sore tomorrow would bring she gives a nod. She new for a fact that was true. The second day was always the worse because your muscles would have time to relax and the pain kicked in double time.

   "It might have been a rough trip but you did it with grace, lets just never do it again ok?"

Giving a smile and leaning her head on his shoulder for a moment Katie just wanted to see Hunter smile. Her joke had been lame but maybe in a way thats how she was trying to deal with it herself. Not that she thought what happened was funny, she just didn't want to think about how she'd almost lost Hunter.

Finally taking a big of her burger a small murmur slips out. She always loved burgers on the grill and could never tire of them. If she could eat them twenty four seven she just might.

   "Man oh Man, the guys out did themselves again with the grill."

Leaning her head back Katie gives a smile and just savers her food. Hearing Hunter's thanks though she looks back to him and smiles. How could she not come and sit with him? She'd be bored other wise and it would make her a horrible person to come, drop off the food and leave.

   "You're welcome Hunter. I get something out of this too though. I get to spend more time with you."



  

Growing Boy

Completely lost in thought, Hunter is a bit startled by Katie's sudden entrance. A small smile quickly forms though, and he pulls himself up in bed to sit. "Wow...now this is what I call service." Smelling the hamburgers, his stomach then growls, announcing he was hungrier than he'd thought, after not having had lunch. 

"Mm, yeah... I'm pretty sore all over at the moment." He rubs his shoulder gingerly. "I think maybe it was a rougher trip down that bank than I'd thought." He knew though, that no matter how sore he was now, tomorrow was going to be worse, and the day after. The second day after an incident was always the worst for some reason. But... he wasn't going to complain.

Moving over on the bed, he makes room for Katie to sit too, and accepts the plate, setting it on his lap. He'd spent enough meals with her that by now he was used to her praying beforehand, so it didn't bother him when tonight was no different. This time though... it felt... different, as a little tug came to his heart. He pushes it aside for now though. 

Taking a bite of his hamburger, he murmurs his content. "This hits the spot." He gives Katie a sidelong glance before nudging her with his elbow. "Thanks... for coming to eat with me." 

It isn't until his shoulder is touched that Jeff finally starts to stir. Opening his eyes slowly, he looks around groggily before focusing on Rosetta and realizing she'd been talking about supper. 

Yawning and stretching he legs, he gives her a sleepy nod. "Mm-hmm." Sighing, he relaxes again but eventually forces himself to sit up, running a hand over his face. "Thank you," he mumbles. He hadn't realized just how tired he'd been. He really had intended on getting himself up for supper, but it looked like his body had other ideas. 

Blinking his eyes a few times, he finally looks up at his sister more clearly. "Sorry. I should've set my alarm." Finally fully awake, he pulls on his boots. Standing, he wobbles just a little, only now feeling a bit dizzy. Reaching out to Rosetta's shoulder, he steadies himself before rolling his eyes and throwing her a slight wry grin. "Melady, would you kindly escort this elderly gentleman to the dining room so he avoids a most painful meeting with the hard ground?"

"What what?" Jason looks down and sucks in his already-lean abdomen. "I have an excuse too... I'm just a growing boy, see. Besides, if I get pudgy, it's your fault for eating so many meals with me. Otherwise I'd skip and stay skinny. So I can handle watching you eat ice cream."

Watching Misty come closer, he grins, accepting her soft kiss to his lips before chuckling. "Yes... yes, I did know pregnant women can be moody. But what I didn't know was that you weren't moody before..." 

A firm whack with some papers to his head makes him cringe, his eyes going wide. Turning to look up at Rick, he rubs his head. "What was that for?" 

"For insulting the lady, for starters." Rick smirks at him. He needn't act surprised about seeing the kiss either - he'd seen these two kiss more than once, and had put the pieces together himself. He'd said nothing though, just letting them be. "And second, for not seeing me before you ate lunch like you were supposed to. Did I not tell you I wanted to test your blood sugar?"

"Um... Yeah, I guess maybe you did." Jason crunches on another potato chip. "Sorry." 

"Sorry... sorry..." Rick sighs. Looking to Misty, his finger points at Jason. "Tomorrow, I want this boy's blood tested, even if you have to tie him down to do it."

Jason's eyebrows quirk and he shrugs. "That might not be so-"

"On second thought, just don't let him eat until I've seen him, okay?" 

Jason stifles a laugh, giving Rick a wide smile. "Relax, Doc... you'll give yourself an ulcer." 

Rick rolls his eyes. "Tomorrow. Before lunch. And in the meantime, go expend some of that energy of yours... on a punching bag or something." He rolls up his papers and gives Jason's arm a whack for good measure before heading back over to the counter. 

Jason's cheeks were a bit flushed as he glances up at Misty again. He didn't know why it was so easy - too easy - to openly flirt with her around. Maybe it was because she did the same thing. Whatever the cause, he was finding himself in need of controlling his tongue much more often than he'd used to. Clearing his throat, he swivels his chair back around again to eat another chip, setting an elbow on the desk and hiding his red face.

"I don't know..." Reese shakes his head and leans on Angelica's desk, still staring at the photos. "Maybe when you're like them and you only do things like this for one reason, and you've done it so many times before, there just is no emotion." 

He shakes his head. "But I've seen Carson's emotions with Misty... I can't see him leaving her for such a cold relationship. Cheating on her, yes, but leaving her? For this?" He gestures to one picture in particular where both Carson and Jaz seemed to be in bad moods, according to their facial expressions. 

Reese sighs and straightens up to pace in a small circle. "Why, then? Aside from Carson's obvious lack of physical control when it comes to women. Obviously it's not love. Is it really the Agency like we're afraid of? Jaz is an ex-agent too. Do you think they would have hooked up again to return to working for the Agency?" 

Moody

Finished with her even work since she has skipped out on the morning and already having her shower done Katie wonders to the mess hall. She'd grab some dinner for herself and for Hunter before heading to his bunk. She wasn't going to let him eat alone, she would rather sit with him and enjoy his company.

Not to much later Katie was knocking on his door before entering. Two pates in hand with burgers, chips, watermelon and two glasses of lemon aid. It was a nice refreshing supper that had been cooked out on the grill making it that much better.

   "Dinner is server my dear Hunter."

Entering with a big smile on her face Katie was happy to bring dinner for him. She might have felt helpless earlier today with what happened but now sure felt kind of useful. Maybe someday she'd make a good house wife after all. She'd definitely have to work on her cooking though.

   "How ya feeling? Sore I bet huh?"

Looking around the mess happy Rosetta new she was a little early but she new Jeff was mostly early too. She'd promised to come check on him if he wasn't there for dinner and she didn't want to fall though on that. 

Leaving the mess hall and heading for Jeff's bunk Rosetta walks slowly but with a reason. She just wanted to know Jeff was alright and didn't want him to miss out on the good meal tonight. Getting to his bunk she knocks on the door. Hearing no answer she checks to see if it is unlocked or not.  Seeing it was Rosetta opens the door quietly before entering.

Seeing her brother sleeping form in the bed she is very quiet walking over to him. Laying a gentile hand on his shoulder she gives it a small shake to try and wake him.

   "Jeff, Jefffff....its supper time. You want to come and get some hamburgers?"

Hanging up the phone with Alec Misty kicks her foot out a little bit at Jason but miss him. Looking at him and cocking her head a little bit a grin forms on her lips. She had to admit being teased by Jason wasn't all that bad and it gave her a reason to form her own comebacks. 

    "Oh yeah, well at least I have a reason for getting puggy."

Misty reaches out and gives a little poke to Jason's belly. He was far for fat, or over weight, Jason never had been and never would be but she liked to poke fun and make him a little paranoid anyways. Like him teasing her it was funny and she enjoyed it. It was all out of love though and that was the important thing to remember. 

   "And if your not careful Mr I wont let you have any of the ice cream when you come over either. You'll have to sit there and watch me eat it."

Standing and walking over to Jason Misty lays a hand on her stomach. She wasn't huge yet but you could definitely see a baby bump was forming. Misty liked it she thought it was kind of cute and fit her well. 

Leaning down close to Jason Misty's eyes twinkle as she gives him a teasing yet soft kiss on the lips before retreating a little.

   "Didn't you know prego women can be moody?"

Watching as Reese spreads out some of the pictures on her desk Angelica leans in to look a little closer. Normally picture like this would turn her stomach. To think someone who had built a life, was married, and now expecting a child would be happy, not off cheating on his wife, and doing nothing to say he was sorry and wanted to come back home.

But there was something off. Looking at theses pictures were like looking as case pictures when someone was on the stand, or someone at a crime scene. There was no emotion in these pictures, not even a little spark that something was going on even if it wasn't love. 

   "The picture are very empty. There is no sly grin, no spark, no affection, subduction, nothing."

Cocking her head a little bit to look closer at the picture Reese was right there really was nothing. If it had not been for the situation it would be slightly sad to see such a empty couple. It sent a red flag up to Angelica that something just wasn't right.

   "It's just....something is off and I don't like it. It makes me feel very uneasy!"

 

Missing...

"Yeah... yeah, okay." Easier said than done, but Jeff would try not to let this get him down as his sister was prompting.

Finishing up with Hawk, he returns his horse to his stall and gives him an extra sheet of hay just to spoil him, before putting his bridle away. Crossing Rosetta's path again, he thinks for a moment. "I... think I'm gonna go lay down for a while before I fall over. If I don't show up for supper... have somebody come check on me, okay?" It wasn't a usual request of his, but he really wasn't feeling well.

Giving Rosetta's shoulder a little pat, he heads from the barn to Angel's first, asking how Hunter was, then going to his own bunk. He was glad Hunter was going to be okay - it could have been far worse. He still felt badly though. Hunter was a very physically active man... being laid up for several weeks minimum was not going to be easy for him. 

Once to his bunkhouse, Jeff showers and lays down on his bed to rest. He hated being so very tired, but he knew he couldn't fight it. The only thing he could do was sleep and hope that he'd bounce back quickly.

And come suppertime, he didn't show up at the dining hall, still sound asleep. 

Hunter lets Katie settle in beside him, his hand finding hers on his chest. Sighing deeply, he lets his eyes fall shut. Now this... this was comfortable. 

Katie's offer to bring him dinner brings a mumbled, "Mm-hmm," as a response. He wasn't exactly hungry at the moment, but hopefully come suppertime he'd be up to eating something. Right now though, the day's events were catching up to him fast and all he wanted was rest. 

It didn't take long for him to fall asleep, and it wasn't until a couple hours later when his muscles involuntarily jerk that he's yanked awake by the pain in his knee. Giving a little groan, he shifts his weight, finding that Katie was gone. When she'd left, he had no idea. Yawning, he glances at his clock. Seemed like just yesterday he was waking about this time - time for dinner. He'd just as soon these past twenty-four hours hadn't happened at all. 

Managing to get up, get to the bathroom and back was enough work for him that he decides not to try traipsing to the mess hall. He knew Katie had offered to bring him something to eat, and he really didn't want her to have to go to all that trouble... so if she didn't think of it, he wouldn't remind her. Maybe he could bribe her to bring him some lemonade though... 

Sighing, he props his leg back up again and lies on his back. He was glad he'd been able to sleep instead of thinking too much. Come to think of it... his sleep had been very peaceful without any help at all. Could it be that... the nightmares... were over? He certainly hoped so. For some odd reason though, he just couldn't let it go at that. It was as if he suddenly knew there was a whole lot more to those nightmares than just bad dreams. Something had happened today... it had been his nightmare in real life. Things like that didn't just "happen." But... why did this happen to him? 

"Ice cream. I can do that." Alec makes that mental note while still thinking about what he'd need for under the sink. He knew where Misty kept the spare cash for when he needed supplies from the store. But today... he'd use his own money. Someone might think the little bit of pay that Misty gave him once week was pitiful - to him it was a blessing on top of a blessing. Not only was she letting him stay here and letting him fix up the shed for his own, but she was paying him for his help around the place too. Never would he ever even dream of being ungrateful. He deserved a whole lot less than this. He knew he wanted to save enough to fix up his motorcycle and have gas money to get him places... but today, buying supplies and a treat for Misty were more important. 

"Okay, well I'll see you tonight then." Ending the conversation, he goes to hunt down his sneakers before heading outside. It would take a little while to get where he needed to go, but it was a nice day for a walk.

Only after returning the favor of sticking his tongue out at Misty does Jason take another bite of his sandwich. Sitting backwards in the office chair next to her desk, he swivels back and forth until she's done with her call.

It had been a little strange for him at first, getting use to the idea of Misty being pregnant. He'd been around his mom some when she'd been expecting Kaylee, but the whole thing really was rather foreign to him. It had always freaked him out just a bit too, though he'd never admit it. Spending time with Misty though... maybe it had shown him that she was still the same Misty he always knew. They could have just as much fun, she was no different, and though there were a few things she had to be careful of now, for the most part, dating was... normal, not strange. And perhaps on the nights when Jason's mind wandered, the thought of being around a baby wasn't quite as scary as it had used to be. After all, he'd been around Kaylee as a baby, and he'd done pretty well with that. He'd never wanted his own kids, and of course, Misty having a baby was not the same as him being a father, but it did give him some new insights. He really was enjoying being with Misty, and he knew that wouldn't change, whether she was a mother or not. So perhaps... something so foreign and scary... wasn't that bad after all. And besides... it did give him some new fodder for teasing...

"Are you always in the mood for ice cream, or is it that you simply crave something or other twenty-four/seven now?" As she hangs up the phone, his eyes twinkle at her, and he pops a potato chip in his mouth, unable to hide his grin. He does shift his chair back a couple inches though, just in case a hand or foot were to fly in his direction.

"Mm... yeah... Pete's kept half an eye on Jaz as well, but it seems she spends most of the time at home. Doesn't even have a job that we know of." Reese sighs again. "You're right though... even Carson has to slip up eventually. He's good, but not that good." 

A friendly conversation? Here? Maybe. Reese takes the folder offered to him and thumbs through a few of the pictures. Carson would have a fit and fall in it if he knew these had been taken. 

"Speaking of friendly..." Reese cocks his head, shifting through a couple more photos. "Remember when you said something felt off about this whole thing, and I wasn't sure I agreed?" This wasn't the first time he'd seen some of these pictures, but today he was noticing something different. "Well... maybe you were right." 

He leans forward to spread out some of the pictures on her desk so they both could see. "What's missing?" He scans the faces of Carson and Jaz in each situation. "No holding hands... no arm over the shoulder... no kissing or making out..." He glances up to Angelica. "Not than I'm an expert..." For a moment, a silly grin quirks the corner of his mouth before he quickly shifts back on task. "But if these two are supposed to be lovers... how come there's no... loving? I mean, I don't wanna set up a camera in their apartment, but wouldn't you think there'd be some affection shown... outside the bedroom?"

Ice cream

Stopping what she was doing and looking at Jeff again Rosetta gives a little shake of her head. Maybe Jeff should of picked a different way to go, or a smoother trail for there first time riding together but still blaming himself was senseless.

   "You were thinking about having a nice time, and picked a wonderful spot to do so."

Finished with one of the horses Rosetta moves to put it away before working on the the other horse. She new how Jeff was feeling and no matter what she said it wasn't going to help really. She just hopped that this wouldn't set Jeff back any either.

   "Everything worked out Jeff, and who knows maybe God had a plan in this all. Just don't let this one accident hold you bad, ok?"

Following Hunter out of Angel's office and to his bunk it was a slow move but Katie didn't mind. She was there to help and a few times when it looked like Hunter might lose his balance she was there to steady him. Crunches were next easy to walk on for that she new. He did it pretty good though and Katie hadn't known better she would of guessed he had done it before.

Finally getting to the bunk and helping Hunter inside Katie gets and extra blanket and pillow for the closet to help prop his leg up and anything else he might need. Sitting down on the edge of the bed Katie gives a smile to Hunter as he pats next to him. After this whole thing she was feeling a little drained herself. Maybe a little rest would be nice.

   "Of course I'll keep you company. I don't have much else to do at the moment."

Swinging her legs around Katie curls up next to Hunter draping her arm over his chest and comfortably laying her head on his arm. She'd stay and keep him company trying not to fall asleep herself. She wanted to make sure he was still ok. After almost losing him being a little over protective was normal.

   "I'll even bring you some dinner if you want too."

Picking up the phone Misty answers hearing Alec's voice. Giving a little smile she thinks for a moment. There were lots of things she was in the mood for but was there anythign she really needed?

   "I could go for some ice cream if its not putting you out to much. I've been craving it today. Than again I always am in the mood for ice cream."

Looking over at Jason Misty sticks out her toung before giving a small laugh. She'd been having lunch with him but it was still ok that Alec had called. She thought it was nice of him to have asked. Having Alec around really was nice and Misty enjoyed the house not being so quiet.

Sitting in her chair at her desk Angelica listens to Reese and gives a small nod. She new everything that was going on and new how this could jeprodise the Elite. There was not much they could do though other than what they have. No information had been found to accuse Carson of anything and that at the moment was the major problem.

   "Well, you can still have someone tail him. Sooner or later he has to make a slip up. How about someone follow that woman he is with now? Maybe if we can find a connection with her, we can find the one with Carson as well."

Angelica holds out a yellow folder to Reese. It had many pictures inside of Carson and the woman together out and about, or at home. There was something off about them and she had told Reese so but she wasn't sure what. This whole thing just seemed off and it bothered her to no end.

   "I guess we could just bring Carson in for friendly conversation too, but I'm not sure how friendly it would be."

Company

Jeff just sighs and shakes his head, retrieving an old towel to rub down Hawk. "I know the accident wasn't my fault - but taking a novice up that trail was." 

Leaning against his horse, he looks to his sister. He was exhausted and knew that today had not been good for him in more ways than one. But he really didn't care. What he cared about was Hunter - a young man - Katie's man - who had almost died... because he'd suggested a rougher trail. 

"I should have known better. I know Hunter rode when he was a kid, but he's been riding here, what? A week? Ten days? Anybody else wouldn't have let him ride that trail. I don't know what I was thinking."

Hunter nods gratefully, sliding off the bed and standing on one leg as he adjusts the crutches under his arms. "Alright... I think I'm ready. Just catch me if I fall." Locking eyes with Katie, perhaps his gaze revealed that his words were not only meant for the trek to his bunkhouse. 

Glancing away again, he slowly heads for the door. It wasn't a comfortable journey to the bunkhouse. By the time they arrived, Hunter's knee felt like it was on fire and all he wanted to do was lie down again. Getting inside, he carefully eases down on his bed, setting his crutches aside. Lying on his back, he sighs deeply. He felt utterly drained... for more than one reason. 

Looking up at Katie, he gives her a sleepy grin before patting the space next to him on the bed. "Keep a cripple company for a while?" He knew she'd have other things to do before supper, but he wouldn't mind her sticking around at least a few minutes. It would postpone anything else he didn't want to think about right now, too.

A curse slips out as the wrench comes down on Alec's finger. Lying on his back, he was staring up at the kitchen sink pipes, his legs sprawled across the floor. Without a list of things to do today, he'd first tackled the dripping sink in the bathroom and now had spent the last two hours trying to unclog the kitchen sink. He'd tried drain cleaning chemicals, he'd tried going from the top down, and nothing was working. His last resort was to take apart the pipes and see what was going on. Unfortunately, the pipes were being stubborn.

In all reality though, he didn't mind that it was taking a while - at least it used up part of his day. He usually had plenty to do though. He was finally caught up on sleep, completely over his cold and getting used to having regular meals again. He'd stopped thanking Misty after she'd warned him to, but he wished there was more he could do to repay her. At least she made sure to keep him busy. He'd cleaned out the garage, tidied the front yard, fixed the kitchen table, gone grocery shopping a couple times and rearranged the living room. Each task he took seriously and he made sure everything was done before Misty got home at night - which wasn't hard on the evenings she spent out with Jason. One ongoing task was the shed, but since it was such a big project, Alec spread it out between the other odd jobs and Misty didn't seem to mind. He was looking forward to it being his and was meticulous about his work on it.

Sometimes though, the days did get long. He still hunted for work, but there were times he sat around with nothing to do but sit and be... lonely. At least Misty was home every night and sometimes Jason for a while too, so he did have some company.

Banging around on the pipe some more, the one he was working on suddenly gives way and his face his met with a downpour of water that had been backed up above the clog. Coughing and sputtering, he sits up too soon and hits his head on the underside of the counter before he slides out on the floor groaning.

After cleaning himself up, he sighs, leaning against the kitchen counter and picking up the phone. Dialing from memory, he waits to hear Misty's voice. "Hey, Misty. I gotta run to the store to pick up a piece of..." He looks at the mess on the floor. "...pipe. Anything you want me to get while I'm out?"

"Nothing." Reese sighs before setting his hands on his hips as he stands by Angelica's desk. "Dalton can't find a thing that Carson might have been doing on the computers here. Which can only mean one thing - he's covered his tracks for some reason. Otherwise, something would have shown up. Anything! But not even Dalton can find it, which means not only has Carson covered his tracks, it was severe enough for him to work really hard at it."

Flopping down in an extra chair, Reese looks at Angelica with desperation. "What do I do? I've had Pete tail him. So far that hasn't proven anything, although it hasn't been too long. I'm just... I'm worried. I'm worried that Carson's into something bad, and if he is, that could mean something even worse for the Elite."

All Day

Coming over to Jeff Rosetta helps him remove the saddles on the horses. It was nice working next to her brother. Team work, thats what they were, both knowing there limitations and being there to help each other. Rosetta liked the feeling it gave her, and the closeness that just seemed to be there.

Listing to Jeff talk as she continues to unhook the horses Rosetta can't help the look of shock. That path was a challenge but it had never been dangerous before. The whole thing seemed kind of bazaar but anything could happen and Rosetta new this. Always expect the unexpected.

   "Wow, thats crazy. I'm happy you and Katie were there with him or who knows what could of happened."

Taking the blankets off the horses and putting them over the holding bar Rosetta stops for a second to give the horse a scratch before looking back to Jeff again. Seeing the look in his eye she new what he was thinking and she shakes her head.

   "Jeff you know this is not your fault. It could of happened to you, or Katie, or anyone. It's just one of those uncontrollable things. So don't go blaming yourself ok?"

Being pulled in for the kiss Katie gladly returns it. If anything today she learned how quickly someone can slip out of your grasp and become no more. She new if it was there time, it was there time but it was not something she wanted to quickly move along.

Pulling away a little and looking down at Hunter Katie looks deep into his eyes searching the depths. She couldn't help but wonder how much of his real emotions he was hiding but she could guess it was quite a few. Something like this might be better thinking about it alone.

   "You're welcome Hunter, and I guess God deiced it wasn't. He must have some unfinished business to do with you yet."

Looking around the office Katie spots the crutches. Going over and grabbing them she brings them back to Hunter. She wasn't sure how long he would need them, or have to be off his feet but it was anything like when Jason hurt his knee it would be several weeks.

   "Here they are. Just take it slow and I will help. No need to hurry though I've got all day."

It wasn't my day...

Jeff focuses on loosening Hawk's girth, giving a weary sigh to Rosetta's question. They were back early afternoon instead of this evening, that's what had happened. Letting the buckles fall, he doesn't attempt to lift the saddle himself - he'd wait for her help.

"Had an accident on the trail," he finally explains. Removing Hawk's bridle, his horse gratefully spits out the bit. "Rode up that narrow pass along Diamond River. Bonzai spooked at something. Hunter lost his seat and I don't even know how, but he ended up down the bank and in the river."

Pausing, he puts Hawk's halter on, giving him a loving pat on the cheek. That whole ordeal on the trail still sent fear running down his spine. And in a way... he blamed himself. 

"He went under and didn't come up until a ways down. Katie got to him first and had to give him CPR. I guess his leg got caught on something when he was underwater and he dislocated his knee. Only way back here was the horses though, so... here we are. Eric helped get him to Angel's so she's looking at him now."

That was the short, unemotional version. Concentrating on Hawk, he picks at a knot in his mane for several moments. "I never should have taken a novice on that trail," he mutters. "I shoulda known better."

Finally joined by Katie, Hunter just closes his eyes, letting her hand brush his cheek. Her little teasing brings a small grin to his face and he reaches for her hand to give it a light kiss. "Naw..." 

He looks up at her, giving her a quirky expression. "I just wanted to see if you cared enough to rescue me. Figured drowning was the best way to find out." 

Taking her arm, he pulls her down to him, tilting her chin with his finger. Studying her eyes for a moment, he reaches behind her head so his lips could meet hers in a tender kiss. "Thank you... for saving my life." 

Tucking some hair behind her ear, he offers her a new weary smile. "I guess it wasn't my day to die after all." No... apparently it wasn't. And those words... those words he had heard... they continued to reverberate in his mind. But he was not yet ready to talk about what had really happened below the river's surface. He had a lot of thinking to do first. 

Giving a tired sigh, he finds her hand to give it a squeeze. "Wanna help me to my bunkhouse? Apparently there's a set of crutches around here I need to use."

Strong Heart

Looking up at Jeff's voice Rosetta smiles, but as soon as she looked at Jeff it disappeared. He looked so tired, like he had just run a marathon. Coming over to him and taking two of the horses she'd be happy to help him. Even if he didn't look exhausted she would help him. It's not often she was in the barn early enough to help anymore and she did miss it.

   "Yeah not a problem I can help."

Starting to help with the horses Rosetta looks over at her brother. She couldn't help but worry a little bit. She'd hopped he wouldn't over do it again, at least not so soon after getting out of the hospital. Though she didn't want to assume it was hard not to seeing how Jeff was right now.

   "What happened?"

Standing outside Katie paces back and forth just waiting, continuing to feel helpless. She had to admit she was happy to be out here though and not inside helping Angel. She didn't know how she kept so clam through this time of stuff. Maybe thats why Angel was the Dr and not her.

Hearing the scream from inside Katie stops and looks twords the door. She wanted to bust in there and see what was going on. She wanted to make sure Hunter was ok, it was an instinct from the cry. Though she stood where she was because she new that he couldn't be in better hands. And Angel would make sure he was going to be ok. Continuing her pace again all Katie can do is wait.

Laying a soft hand on Hunter's arm Angel gives a small nod. She needed to clean up a little bit but than she would be more than happy to get Katie for him. Moving quickly around the room she puts things away while putting other items in the sink to be stabilized and washed. Done in a few second Angel goes to the door and steps out.

   "Katie, Hunter would like to see you. He's going to be ok, just have to stay off his leg and take care of his other cuts."

Looking up hearing the door open Katie stop pacing and comes a little closer to Angel. Hearing Hunter was going to be ok she gives a sigh of re-leaf and a nod. She was thankful he would be ok and that Angel was able to help him. She really hadn't wanted to back to the hospital.

   "Thanks Angel, for everything."

Moving past her and going inside Katie walks over to where Hunter was laying and sits down on the edge of the bed next to him. Giving a small smile she reaches out and brushes a hand along the side of his face. She was so thankful God had been watching over him today.

   "What are you trying to do huh? Test to make sure my heart is strong enough?"

Katie gives a smile humor in her voice. She tried to make a little joke out of it so she didn't start crying right here again. Today she'd almost lost Hunter and it was still a shock to her system. She just needed a little time to make sure everything was going to be ok.

Not Possibly

Hunter does as he's told and leans back into Katie, trying to focus on her instead of his leg. The ride back was nothing like he'd ever experienced. He'd been hurt before. He'd had broken bones before. But nothing compared to riding with his knee the way it was. By the time they arrive back at the ranch, Hunter knew he must have passed out more than once, as there were gaps in his memory of the ride. He'd grown numb with the pain though, his face pale and his whole body aching.

Hearing Katie call to him, Eric is quick to come, surprised they were back so early, then worried when hearing about Hunter. Wasting no time, he helps get Hunter down off the horse then into Angel's. 

Watching them head in that direction, Jeff sighs deeply, wiping his brow with his sleeve. He was utterly exhausted, but he wouldn't complain - not when Hunter was in far worse shape. Dismounting, he takes all three horses to the barn, walking slowly. Getting inside, he squints in the dim interior before spotting Rosetta. "Hey, Sis... help a weary cowboy put these brutes away?" He gives her a little grin, but he knew she'd be able to tell right off the bat that he'd overdone it today. At least this time he had a good reason.

Back at Angel's, Eric doesn't question her, although helping her wasn't an easy task - not when he knew how much pain Hunter must be in. 

Lying on his back, Hunter bites down on the piece of plastic, his fingers clutching the bed. Being held down by Eric's strong arms, he didn't have much of a choice not to move, and it's a good thing. As Angel puts his knee back into place, Hunter screams - thankful for something to bite down on, rather than his own tongue. Once it was done though, he relaxes again, just closing his eyes and trying to ignore it all. 

Eric straightens up and runs a hand over his face, glad that was over. He'd help in any situation where he was needed, but he'd be the first to admit that this sort of thing bothered him. 

Being looked after, Hunter doesn't resist Angel's pokes and prods, nor her cleaning up his other minor wounds - he hadn't realized until now that he had cuts and bruises on his arms, most likely from his tumble on the way to the water. Remaining quiet, he tries to relax, glad for some pain killers and the news that he'd be okay. For as much as it hurt, he was thankful it wasn't something worse. He'd have to deal with how he was going to stay off his leg while still staying here, but he'd worry about that later.

Angel's words though make him shake his head a little. Though groggy and completely worn out, he did know one thing. "Not possibly... I would have died." If Katie had not been there, he would have drowned, and there was no doubt in his mind.

His eyes start to drift shut but he forces them open again, despite knowing he could rest here as long as he wanted before going to his bunkhouse. "Can I see Katie?" he asks quietly.

Possably

Even though Jeff didn't say it Kate new that he shouldn't be helping her with Hunter and she felt badly. She could try and help Hunter herself but once on the horse it would be far harder and she might do more damage to him on her own. There really was no other option at the moment and all Katie could do was hope Jeff would be ok and it would be quick so he wouldn't have to prolong helping her.

Once Hunter was on the horse Katie has to do all she can to keep from crying anymore herself. Just seeing Hunter in so much pain it sent daggers to her heart. In a way Katie wished Hunter would pass out than he wouldn't have to feel the pain of riding back to the ranch.

Mounting herself Katie moves her leg to rest it slightly against Hunter's to keep his knee from moving to much while they walked. Starting forward Katie goes at a little bit of a slower pace making sure to avoid a lot more than she had on the way up. Now it was different.

    "It's gonna be ok Hunter. Just lean into me and try to relax."

...Several hours go by and finally the ranch comes into view. Katie lets out a sigh of re leaf knowing the journey was almost over. It had been a long ride back, much longer than she ever remembered. But when one was in a hurry it always seemed to be that way.

Getting onto the ground and seeing Eric by one of the barns Katie calls to him. Her dad was exhausted already from helping her get Hunter on the horse she wasn't going to make him help get him down too. Now that they were here someone else could help.

   "Hey Eric, I need you help please."

Giving Eric a quick idea of what happened Katie asks him to help get Hunter down and take him into to see Angel where once again she tells what happened. Being asked to wait in the other room Katie lets out a small sigh but new why.

Looking to Eric Angel could already tell something was wrong with Hunter's keep even before looking under his pants.

   "It's dislocated, and there might be some cartridge damage. If you don't mind I am going to need some help. I have got to put it back into place and for that I am going to need you to hold Hunter down."

Looking to Hunter Angel shows him pity. This was not going to be fun and it was going to hurt a lot. Getting a plastic pipe from one of her draws she tells Hunter to bit down. Giving a nod to Eric she goes to the other end of Hunter's leg.

   "Alright...One...two..."

Angel doesn't even get to three as she take his leg and twists popping the knee cap into place. At least the hard part was over. It doesn't take much longer for Angel to finish cleaning up the cuts and bruises and the rest of Hunter over. It seemed the worst part had been his knee.

   "It's going to take a little bit for your knee to heal Hunter. You need to stay off of it, and ice it along with heat twice a day. Other than that, your gonna be ok. Minor concussion, some cuts, but no major damage. Your lucky you had people with you or you could have possibly died."

Shouldn't

"Yeah, I can lead Bonzai, no problem - he's a good follower and he and Hawk get along." Those were two pluses right there. If only that were the most difficult decision. Jeff sets his hands on his hips and looks between them and the horses then back again. 

No... he shouldn't help with Hunter at all. He wasn't supposed to lift over five pounds for another four weeks at least, and he'd even asked for help getting saddled up earlier. But there was no way he could let Katie try and support the weight of a grown man on her own. He'd just have to pray that this incident wouldn't have a negative affect on his own health. 

"Yeah, I'll be fine." He gives his daughter a reassuring nod, hiding his apprehension. "Okay, Hunter... we're gonna have to get you in the saddle again." 

Hunter just groans. He didn't want to be difficult, but right about now, a saddle sounded like the worst idea in the world. 

"I know... but we gotta do it." Though Jeff's coaxing tone was calm, he wanted to get Hunter back to the ranch as soon as possible. There could be more injuries than just his knee, and even though it appeared the shock was wearing off, there were still many possible dangers that might not be detected until Angel looked him over. 

Kneeling, he looks to Katie for help getting Hunter to first sit up. 

As Hunter rights himself with their aid, his leg bends, causing more shooting pain. Muffling his own cry, he bites his lower lip hard enough that it starts to bleed. Hanging on to both Katie and Jeff as he's pulled up from the ground, he puts no weight on his injured leg - afraid to even try, and knowing that he probably shouldn't anyway. 

"Alrighty..." Jeff was breathing heavily by now as beads of sweat formed on his brow. He slings Hunter's arm over his shoulders and waits for Katie to do the same before starting forward slowly.

Hunter was not a small man and it took some doing just to get him as far as the horses, but Jeff and Katie manage. Once to Katie's horse, Hunter leans against the saddle, hiding his face and his contorted expression of pain. 

Catching his breath, Jeff gives his daughter another nod. "Okay... Grab hold of his belt with me and we're gonna give him a boost so he can get his right foot in the stirrup." He was mounting up from the wrong side, but thankfully Katie's mount didn't care. "Hunter - you still with us?" He pats his arm. "Come on - you can do this." 

Hunter nods numbly, having heard the plan. Grabbing hold of the saddle, he waits until the other two are ready before springing up. It works better than he thought it would - until he has to swing his left leg over the saddle and he bumps it as he goes. Choking on his own breath, his hand grip the saddle horn until his knuckles were white, and he was afraid he might pass out right there. 

"Easy does it," Jeff prompts. "Take a deep breath. The hard part's over." It wasn't really true, but it's all the reassurance he had. Hanging onto the reins, he lets Katie mount up behind Hunter before giving the reins back to her. Returning to Hawk and retrieving Bonzai as well, he mounts up too, ready to go. Sweat had soaked his shirt and his pulse was racing, but he ignored himself for now. He didn't have time to worry about any of that yet. "Okay, Katie... you take the lead." He knew he didn't need to tell her to take it easy. 

Starting forward, the movement was almost too much for Hunter to bear. Hunching forward, he tries to keep breathing as his eyes water from the pain. It had taken them several hours to get here... it was going to be an even longer ride back. 

Help

Trying her best to stay as calm herself as she could Katie just listens to Jeff. She was happy he was there and she was not alone. One wouldn't know how to act in this situation till it really happened and if they had been alone maybe she would of been ok, but he was there now and he new the right questions to ask and for that she was very thankful.

Hearing Hunter cry out in pain Katie gives a little jump and a few more tears roll down her cheek. To hear a grown man cry out in pain like that you new something had to be wrong and it had to be bad. It hurt to see Hunter in so much pain and feel so completely helpless to him.

   "Yeah I wont mind taking Hunter with me as long as you think you can lead Bonzi back with you. He should be ok and calmed down by now."

Looking up at her dad Katie gives a worried look. She just wanted Hunter to be ok, but she new this ride back was going to do him no good. The only way to get him out though would be by horse back since he couldn't walk. Maybe with any luck her horse would sense something was wrong and move with extra care. 

   "I'm going to need your help getting him on the horse though. Will you be ok to do that?"

   

Pain

Letting his eyes fall shut  again, Hunter listens to the brief recap of what had happened. He remembered tumbling down the embankment and hitting the water. Then being pulled under. The thought makes him shudder and he grips Katie's hand a little tighter. Coughing some more, his lungs ached and he wondered if he'd ever get all the water out.

His chest? Come to think of it, it did feel pretty sore, and it takes a moment for his lethargic mind to realize that not only had he breathed in a bunch of water, but Katie had probably given him CPR. What about anything else? He sort of just felt numb all over. "Um..." Yeah, he'd thought he'd lost himself there too for a few minutes.

"Here you are." Jeff was back and tucking a blanket around Hunter's shivering body. "Just lie still. Can you hear us?" 

Hunter nods slowly, prying his eyes open once more. They stung from having been open underwater. 

"Good. How do you feel?" 

"Mm..." It was hard to speak with chattering teeth. "Ss...s...stupid." 

Jeff can't help his chuckle and he rubs Hunter's shoulders under the blanket to warm him and keep his blood flow going. Not having heard Katie himself, he repeats her question. "Are you hurt anywhere?" 

Hunter blinks, forcing his eyes to open wider before coughing again. "I... I don't think so..." 

"Thought maybe you hit your head." Jeff runs a careful hand through Hunter's hair, checking for any injuries. 

"Uh-uh." Hunter shakes his head a little. "I just... I couldn't breathe and... and passed out I guess." 

"I've never known the undertow in this river to be that bad," Jeff muses as he continues to keep Hunter warm - and keep him talking so his mild shock didn't turn into something worse. He was glad for Katie's presence as well, knowing she would help keep Hunter calm.

"Mm... I got caught..." Hunter coughs again, spitting up what he hoped to be the last of the water. "My leg..." 

Jeff lifts his eyebrows and glances to Katie before speaking to Hunter again. "Which leg?"

"Um..." Hunter tries to think. "Left... I think."

Jeff moves down to Hunter's legs and feels through his jeans, starting at the ankle and moving up. When he reaches the knee, he knew immediately something was wrong. 

Crying out in pain, Hunter puts Katie's hand in a death grip before rolling onto his back. "No don't touch it... please, please..."

Jeff sighs and tilts his hat back on his head. "Hunter, I think you dislocated your knee." 

Hunter groans, still trying to breathe after the shock of pain. "Is it... is it bad?" 

"I don't know - but your kneecap isn't where it's supposed to be."

"Can you put it back in place?"

"There's a chance I could." Jeff nods. "There's also a chance there's more damage than that or that I do something wrong and make it worse." 

Hunter swallows hard. As he becomes more alert, the more his numbness turned to pain in more than one place - but his knee was by far the worst. He blinks another couple drops of water out of his eye as he shivers again. "What... what do we do?" 

"I don't know." Standing up, Jeff checks his cell phone, just to confirm what he already knew - no signal. They were too far out to contact anybody. But to make Hunter ride would not only put him through excruciating pain, but could potentially injure his leg even more. But what choice did they have?

Leaning his head to the side, Hunter's eyes fall shut again as he tries to concentrate on Katie's hand that combed through his hair, rather than his pain. He felt stupid, embarrassed, helpless and scared. The terrifying ordeal had lasted only minutes, yet the adrenaline still raced through his veins. 

Looking down at Katie, Jeff locks eyes with her. There was simply no solution other than Hunter riding, but it wasn't going to be easy. The rest of their ride, and lunch, were completely forgotten. "Hawk doesn't do very well with extra passengers. You up to having Hunter ride double with you?"

Heart Attack

As Hunter spits up the water Katie lets him roll over as she rubs his back. Getting the water from his lungs was good and she wasn't going to stop it. The water needed to come up and Katie just held Hunter stable and rubbing his back. Katie's heart still raced and her own hands shook a little bit. The tears finally breaking free from her eyes as they streamed down her face. She'd been trying to be so strong and now the walls just broke open.

Brushing some of the wet hair from Hunter's eyes Katie rubs the side of his cheek with her hand. She had no idea what Hunter was feeling right now but she felt releaf and terror at the same time for what had happened. It had happened all so quickly and he been a pure adrenalin rush that now it was over coming down was not fun.

   "Your horse got spooked and you took a pretty nasty spill. Stopped breath there for a little bit and gave me a heart attack. Are you feeling any pain besides your chest?"

Katie didn't know if they would be able to make it back to the ranch or have someone come here. Moving Hunter could be dangerous if he had head trauma. If there was no real danger of that though they could head back and have Angel look at him. It would be much easier than having her come here.

Letting her hand find Hunter's Katie just holds it. Giving it a little squeeze to let Hunter know she was there too. Her other hand still gently running through Hunter's hair as she just softly trys to sooth him. He was going into shock if not already in it and she needed to keep him calm.

   "I thought I'd almost lost you!"