Searous

Standing when he see Dani Nate could see the look of worry on her face and it pained his heart. He'd always dont what he could to shield people from pain, to try and help but this was just another wake up call they he couldn't always play the hero and sometimes just being there, and being a friend was the best form of help he could offer.

   "We haven't been told anymore other than he is still in surgery. The did one last night when he came in, and than this morning they had to do another emergency surgery."

Gesturing to one of the chairs for Dani to shit down Nate didn't mind standing. He'd been sitting since they had gotten here, standing for a little bit might be nice now. 

And as the hours seemed to pass on one would go fast, and one would go slow but the time did move. Nate moved around lots but it was all he could do to keep himself from going crazy, he window, back to the door, down the hall and to the window again till finally he leaned against one of the walls in the waiting room a silent prayer moving through his mind.

It wasn't till a Dr entered the waiting room and came up to the group that Nate moved again. Coming closer to everyone he extends his hand to the dr giving it a shake before looking from Reese, to Dani and than back to the Dr.

   "Is anyone here Dalton Heathrow's family?"

   "Reese, and I work with Dalton, and Dani is his girlfriend. We are the only family he has."

Giving a nod the Dr. understood and at least Dalton had people here who cared and looked at him like they were his family. It always made Amanda happy when she saw friendships, or coworkers who worked together like that. Though this sad time they would need each other.

    "Dalton made it through both surgery. One of his lungs was punctured, we went in took the bullet out and than repaired it. Through out the night though it collapsed and we had to open him up again, re-inflating it, and repairing it once more. He's breathing on his own at the moment and stable but he is far from out of the woods. With his other health issues the next few days he is going to have to fight for his life and not give up. If you guys want to see him I can let you for only a little bit. He's not coherent but he will be able to hear you if you want to talk to him."

Hearing about Dalton Misty could feel her blood almost run cold. She'd interacted with Dalton before and even if it was only a little bit he'd had an impact on her. There was just something about him that no matter what he seemed to touch someone in some way.

   "Jason...I am so sorry that happened. Is Reese going to keep you up to date on everything going on?"

Leaning forward a little bit Misty lays a hand on Jason's shoulder. He looked so stressed and filled with emotion she felt so bad for him knowing this had to be rough.

   "Are you ok?"

 Letting out another sigh Ryan shakes her head a little bit just looking upward again. Pulling her one leg up and resting her other on top of it. She wasn't sure how to talk about it or what to say. It was pretty much the same thing she had said before and there was still so much confutation attached to it.

   "While I was at the store I saw Alec again. He was with his neice this time, she's a cute kid and Alec seemed so different with her. He was softer in a way. Than she asked if I could drive them home and I couldn't say no to a child so I did."

Ryan stops for a second before continuing trying to collect her thoughts. Why this bothered her so much she didn't know but in a way she hated the feeling.

   "After I dropped them off Alec gave me a kiss on the cheek. I hadn't expected it and...I don't know how to feel about it. I just feel...confused."

Fault

Reese stands behind his desk, arms folded as he tried to figure out if he needed to be upset or not. When Jason had called him a short while earlier, he'd been informed that things had gone sour and Dalton had been shot. That was the extent of his knowledge though - until now. And even after Nate's brief explanation, he was still rather confused. 

"So you're telling me that all this was due to-" He stops short as Jason and Con finally arrive as well. "Nice of you two to show up," he greets curtly.

Jason doesn't bother covering up a glare. "Nice, my butt. This whole thing was a mess from the start. Either we got some bad intel, or we're the stupidest bunch on the planet. And if we're not, we certainly look like it now." 

Reese frowns, not appreciating Jason's tone. But first thing first. "What's the latest on Dalton?" 

Jason shrugs. "I don't know any more than Nate. He's in critical condition with a shot to the chest. I'd go up to the hospital now, but I got my own job at Misty's." 

"What about the other men who were shot?"

"Cops met us and took over - they were gonna get the guys cleaned up, then taken down to the station. Everybody was gonna be fine, except the one that was killed." 

"Yes, about that..." Reese looks to Con. "Nate said there was some miscommunication. What happened?"

Con swallows hard. There was anger in his stare, but also a strange form of surrender, making for a confusing combination. "These to say Dalton told me to watch his back. I never heard it, so I wasn't looking where I should have been. By the time I saw somebody on that side of the building, it was too late. Dalton had already been shot." 

"I see." Reese sighs deeply and rubs a hand over his face. None of this was good. They'd at least brought in the men they were after, plus one, but it still had not gone own well. And unfortunately, Jason was right - something with their intel was wrong, or they had not adequately prepared. "What about the guy that was killed?"

With no response, he looks to Jason. "Well?" 

Jason shrugs. "He tried to escape. Con took him out." 

"He tried to escape? Was there no other way to stop him?"

Con looks away, his grip on his rifle tightening. 

Reese's stare becomes harder. "Answer me, Con." Without a response, he raises his tone. "Conrad Gibbs, was lethal force necessary?!" 

Con finally glances back at him, and for a moment, the office is eerily quiet. "No." 

"Dang it, Con!" Reese slams his hand down on the desk. "Do you know what kind of trouble you could get yourself into for this? What am I going to say in my report?" He looks between all three men. "We have to answer to other people now, guys. We're not playing the same game we used to. I understand that it wasn't your fault things went bad out there tonight - it happens and I'm not blaming you. But if we don't pull our act together, we're not going to have a team anymore." 

Con fingers his rifle before turning to leave. "I'm putting away our gear." 

Watching him go, Reese doesn't stop him. Sighing deeply, he finally grabs his keys and badge. "I'm going to the hospital, Nate, you come with me. Jason, go ahead and go to Misty's - we'll keep you informed." 

"Right. Anything else?" 

"Yeah..." Reese stops at the doorway and thinks a moment. "Call Scott."

Jason's heart sinks a little but he nods. "Okay."

"And see if you can get a hold of Dani."

...Getting to the hospital with Nate, Reese isn't told much, other than what they already knew - Dalton was in critical condition, and had been rushed into surgery with massive damage from his chest wound. Nobody would say what chance of survival they were giving him, but it was obvious that none of the nurses had high hopes. 

Sitting in the waiting room, Reese is quiet, once in a while making conversation with Nate, but avoiding talk of the botched mission for now. He knew his men had done their best, mistakes or not, and he'd rather go through it all later after they knew what would happen with Dalton. 

It had been at least an hour when Dani finally shows up. In the early morning hours, it was obvious that she'd been wakened by Jason's call. Her hair was pulled back into a ponytail and she had on an old pair of baggy jeans and t-shirt, her feet quickly slipped into her flipflops and an old jacket thrown on. Car keys still in hand, she hadn't even bothered bringing her purse. 

Worry coursed through her eyes as she finally finds Nate and Reese. Biting her lip, she tries to keep her emotions in check. All Jason had said was that Dalton had been shot and was in bad shape.

"What's happening?" She comes into the waiting room, looking between both men. "How is he?" 

Even though it was a late hour, Jason wasn't surprised to see a light still on at Misty's. He hoped she hadn't waited up, but he knew she probably had. Entering the house quietly, he sees the light is coming from the kitchen, and heads that way, finding Misty at the table. 

He knew he looked a mess. He was still half-geared up from the mission, and blood stained his shirt and hands. His eyes were tired and full of concern, his shoulders bending under the weight. 

"Hi." 

"Dude, you look terrible."

Jason looks back over his shoulder quickly to find Alec yawning and rubbing his eyes, obviously wakened from his sleep on the couch. "Thanks."

"What happened?" 

Jason looks to Misty again before sinking down in a chair and putting his head in his hands. "Mission got botched. Got our guys but Dalton was shot. He's at the hospital now in critical condition." 

Alec can feel shock hitting his veins. Dalton, of all people. He'd been out on a mission? Shot? It... didn't seem possible. And for a brief moment, he remembers how Dalton had been one of the few people to give him a chance. And now he... might not make it?

Sitting up in bed, Scott holds Domino in his lap, stroking her head slowly. Sensing her master's stress, the little dog lays quietly, licking his hand every now and then. 

In the dark, Scott's eyes focus on nothingness. His mind played over and over a silent prayer for Dalton, while memories flashed by. Somehow, somewhere along the way, the giant of a man had become his best friend. He'd supported Scott through thick and thin and had never let him down. He'd been there, even when Scott hadn't wanted him to be. And when Scott had come back to work, he'd welcomed him like a brother. Yes, Dalton was even more than a best friend - he really was like a brother. 

Leaning his head back against the wall, Scott's heart ached. He didn't want to lose Dalton... not now... not like this.

Back at TJY, the lower level was dark. All the lights were off, and the only sound was the soft buzz of security cameras as they slowly turned one way then the other. Guns and other gear had long since been returned to their places, but Con was still there. 

Sitting on the floor, just inside the rec room, Con wrapped himself in the darkness. He should be home. Jamie would be worried about him. But he hadn't called her. He hadn't told her the mission was over or that he was back at TJY. Or  that he was still here, unable to get himself to go home yet.

 Tonight's events played over and over in his mind. And over and over he saw Dalton's body just lying there on the ground, his life being bled out of him. The sound of gunshots made him cringe even now. 

It was his fault Dalton was lying in the hospital now. It was his fault for not paying enough attention. For not being more prepared. For not hearing Dalton's orders. 

Not hearing...

Gritting his teeth, Con closes his eyes tightly, pressing his emotions back down deep. He was in a lot of trouble right now - but it was for shooting one of the drug dealers, not for being negligent on the job. Reese had been gracious enough not to put him under the spotlight. But it didn't matter. Dalton's life hung in the balance right now.

And Con knew it was all his fault.

Eli grins, appreciating it when Ryan could see their dad in him. If there was any man he'd ever admired or wanted to be like, it was their dad. He often wondered if he'd be proud of them today. 

"Yeah... yeah, he always did seem to hold all the answers. Funny thing though... so often he had us figure out the answer ourselves, while knowing it all along. Like he knew we'd choose the right answer eventually, but wanted us to be able to stretch our own minds instead of him just telling us what to do."

Cocking his head, Eli studies his sister again. What was it that was so heavy on her mind? He wondered if he knew, but he didn't dare voice it. "He always said it helped to talk things out..."

Low Down

Standing and placing a hand on Mick's Rosetta gives him a smile. She new what it was to want, and to wait....she had done it for a while before her heart could finally get what she wanted. It was hard but it was also a test of strength and it made her realize where her heart belonged and with who. She never would want to trade that experience.

   "I think letting Chad stay is an ok move and if Jim has a problem with it till well than we can tell him we made the desition and ultamitly it is ours to make. Maybe we just tell Jim the truth in it all. Chad has done nothing wrong and till we see he has he can stay as a paying guest."

Rosetta never liked using force like that before but it was a simple fact that they had no right to tell Chad to leave. Not to mention She'd seen Rosalyn with him and she smiled, a real smile and that was something she hadn't see from her niece in a long time. She had a good shoulder on her head and new if something went wrong she would let someone know before it get out of hands.

Still on her back and shifting her head again to look up at the cracks on the wall Ryan ponders the question for a moment. How was she doing? It was a hard question to answer honestly because she wasn't all that sure. She just new inside she felt so confused.

   "I'm...ok. Just have a bunch of stuff on my mind is all."

Turning her head again to look at Eli tonight he looked like there father. She couldn't help but smile and on nights like this she missed him but to see Eli it was nice to see him.

   "You sure do look like dad tonight. I don't mind when you do, it makes me smile. I miss him a lot sometimes. He always seemed to know the answers to everything."

   "Enough both of you, we can talk about that later. Right now we need to worry about getting Dalton help."

From than on it was crazy how everything happened. The paramedics came, and picked up Dalton alone with the others who had been shot. There main priority was Dalton who had passed out. He had major blood loss and who knows when else had been hit in his chest.

Loaded into the ambulance and on his way it would be hours before anyone would hear anything. Dalton would need surgery and his contrition was hazy. As much as Nate wanted to head to the hospital but he had to go to the office first.

   "I'm not sure what happened outside! Dalton said something, didn't conferm Con heard, he didn't hear and there was snack attack. Anything more than that your going to have to ask Con and wait for Dalton to pull through."

Nate stood in Reese office giving him the low down on everything going on. They would be heading to the hospital soon but needed to get this settled. It was now or never so they might as well not stew on it much longer.

Missed

Forcing himself to move his sights from Dalton's downed figure, Con swings his rifle back to the front of the building just as the drug dealers scatter. Leg shots took them down quickly, and once all of them were on the ground, Con stands up, watching as Nate heads for Dalton. "Goin' blind, guys. I'm coming down." Slinging the rifle strap over his shoulder, he heads quickly for the fire escape ladder. 

Jason follows Nate out of the building, keeping an eye on their prey - who were all laying here and there on the ground, some forced there by wounds, and a couple spreading their arms in surrender, not daring to even try standing. Keeping a gun aimed at them anyway, Jason backs up quickly to where Nate had found Dalton. Seeing all the blood and receiving Nate's order, Jason doesn't hesitate to retrieve his cell phone and dial. First 911 then Reese. 

By now, Con was back on the ground and sprinting across the street to them. Joining Nate, he takes a knee next to Dalton, his heart racing as he saw the condition of their partner. "No.... Dalton... Dalton, can you hear me? Come on... don't do this." 

Movement catches his eye and he turns just in time to see one of the guys had managed to get to his feet and had started to run. Moving quicker than the eye, Con lifts his rifle to his shoulder, aims and fires. The man goes sprawling in the street from the shot in the back. 

At this point, Jason was off the phone, and seeing what had just happened, mixed with his upset emotions from Dalton's condition, he was furious. "Con!" he barks. "What do you think you're doing?!"

Con stands up to face him just as angrily. "He was getting away!"

"Since when do you shoot somebody in the back?!" Jason gives him a hefty shove. "Reese is gonna be all over you for that one!" 

"Yeah, well then have him come down here and watch Dalton get shot, then have him tell you he'd do differently!" 

Jason glares at him in the dim lighting, his emotions churning. "What happened out here? 

"I was watching the front just like I was supposed to!" 

Jason's eyes widen. "Dalton told you to watch his back!" 

"He did not!" 

"Yes he did!"

"No he didn't!" 

Both men's voices were raised to shouting as they argued, and Jason shakes his head. "He told you to watch his back! Nate and I both heard it plain as day!"

Con is about to rebuttal when he suddenly recoils instead. He'd missed something. He'd missed something Dalton had said. And now... His eyes drift back to where Dalton lay, and his stomach twists. 

Approaching sirens interrupt the scene, and Jason goes to gather up the five thugs that were alive so they could be taken care of then taken downtown to the police station. As for the dead one, Con was going to have to answer for that one. 


Eli smiles at his sister and nods. "Yeah. Yeah, everything's okay as far as I know. Got the ol' Scarlet's-out-of-town blues, but nothing new." 

Looking down at his hands for a moment, he rubs a stain on his finger that he'd been unable to wash out at work. "How 'bout you?" He finally looks back up at her again, studying her eyes and wondering about what he'd seen earlier... and what he'd seen so much lately. He wouldn't pressure her, but he was concerned. 


"I know." Mick sighs and leans back against the counter, shaking his head. "And I don't want Chad to leave anyway. I know he's a lot older than Rosalyn and he's got a past - but even that's nothing horrific." He shrugs lamely. "Maybe if I was her father, I'd feel differently. You know what I did with Dan. But... I don't know... I guess when I was giving Rosalyn all those letters, I saw something in her eye - a spark that I'd never seen before. And I guess I don't want to take that away  from her. Maybe I put myself in her position and saw that she's really been a real trooper, living and working here without a life outside the ranch. I mean, we all do it, but even Jade's got Dan, and Clint and Wendy have their own family. I guess I never saw it like this before, but maybe Rosalyn hasn't had enough chances in life and..." 

He shrugs again, feeling as though he was going in circles. "I dunno. I want her to have her own choice about this. Personally, I think Chad's okay - I don't think he's gonna pull any stunts with Rosalyn. At least that's what my gut says and I hope I'm right, since I sent them to town. But I also know Rosalyn's smart, and she wouldn't go with him if she thought anything was even remotely questionable." 

Tucking his hands in his jeans pockets, Mick looks back at Rosetta, just studying her eyes. He didn't know how Rosalyn and Chad really felt about each other... whether it was just a short-lived romance without anything more than a physical attraction, or if they really did have deeper feelings for each other. But he knew what love felt like, and if anybody had chastised him for wanting to be with Rosetta, he would have been very hurt and angry. He adored Rosalyn as his niece and just couldn't bring himself to make this harder on her. If she made a mistake, so be it - she'd been duly warned by her father. Mick didn't want to just sit back and watch her fall, but everything that needed to be said had been said - and now it was up to her. 

"I just can't tell Chad to leave," he concludes. "But I don't know what that will do to Jim."

Fuzzy

Moving twords the building Dalton has no idea of the danger, or the other assent that had gone unseen. The danger that await was not even thought of till the shot was heard. Ducking his head to was instinct as Dalton turns but a warm dagger hits his chest as everything instantly becomes numb. The last thing he saw before looking up at the sky was the shooter going down as well.

Now on the ground and looking up at the sky things were quickly becomes hazy. There was a warm sensation that pooled around him and yet his body felt numb. Had he been hit? The lack of movement said yes, but there was no pain, it didn't hurt, but it didn't feel normal either.

 Hearing the shot Nate looks to Jason his eyes going slightly large. There was not much time to thing though as the dealers start to scatter they new that they had to act fast and they did so. Ducking flying bullets of there own and returning fire it was haywire and crazy. Breaking away from Jason though Nate comes from behind at least trying to startle them to run outside and the plan worked.

   "CON, BE READY...THEY ARE COMING YOUR WAY."

Following behind but not to close Nate has Jason follow them out. He new Dalton was down but first they needed these guys taken care of. Once they are outside more shots ring out and the dealers drop to the ground. Not dead but unable to move from there own positions. 

Looking around and seeing Dalton at the far end Nate's heart races. He'd asked for him to come on this mission even though he had little field work, now he hoped it hadn't been a mistake. Running over to him and seeing all the blood Nate's heart races even faster as he slids down next to him.

   "Hang in there Dalton we are going to get you help stay with me buddy ok?"

Lifting Dalton's head a little bit he places his hand on the wound but dosn't push down in case the bullet was still inside of him. The small stream of blood that ran from his mouth was not a good sign and for the first time in a while Nate was scared.

   "Jason get over here...call 911, or anyone quickly."

Feeling Nate's hands Dalton takes in a rigged breath wincing a little bit. Things were becoming slightly fuzzy and the noises around him were becoming softer. Shifting his eyes a little to see Nate he gives a few coughs.

   "I never saw the other guy come up behind me...I should of ....I should of been more careful. Tell...Dani...I love her."

The night moved on and it was a relaxing one. Ryan was thankful for that, and was happy she got to spend it with two of her favorite people. Walking Tal to the door when it was his time to go Ryan gives him a soft kiss on the lips before seeing him out. 

Coming back into the living room and sits down on the couch and gives a stretch before looking to the side at her brother. Something seemed different with him today and she couldn't help but wonder what it was. 

   "Hey, everything ok? You seemed a little more quiet than normal tonight."

Standing in the kitchen with her husband Rosetta hands BJ his shoes helping him tie them as she listens to Mick. She'd heard bits and peaces all day about what was going on with Rosalyn and Chad but it was just now that she was finally getting the full story.

   "Wow...I would never think Jim would get that upset over this. I mean I can understand where he is coming from but I would think he'd also relize that Rosalyn has a head and would never start anything she couldn't handle."

Finished with BJ shoes Rosetta gives him a pat on the head telling him to head out to the dinning hall and they would be following. Turning back to Mick once he was gone Rosetta could see the look of worry in his eye. This was one of those things that was going to be pretty touchy.

   "So what are we going to do if he dosn't calm down at all? I respect his wishes but Chad is a paying customer and unless he has done something wrong we can't really tell him to leave."

Skunks

As an extra person shows up, plans quickly shift. Con wasn't sure now how the other three would handle the situation, but he knew his position. Surveying the situation from his vantage point, he couldn't see clearly enough to know which man was whom on the ground level, but they looked tense. Whatever that fifth man was for, it appeared this was not quite the casual meeting they'd assumed. 

"Looks like maybe we need to take it a step slower," Jason advises as he peers carefully out the window while speaking quietly. He knew Nate was in charge, but he also knew he didn't mind his input. "Let's take up our spots behind those crates like we planned." He gestures in the dark warehouse interior. "I wanna hear what all this is about and why we didn't know about this fifth guy."

Shifting his weight on his elbows, Con fiddles with his scope setting as Jason and Nate converse. Wait... had someone else just said something to him? He stops and concentrates on listening, hearing Dalton say, "Let's do this." Okay, that was all. Right. And his job was to watch the front, making sure no one got out that way or to alert the others if any more unexpected visitors showed up.

Without having heard Dalton's words to watch his back around the corner of the warehouse, Con focuses on the front door again, counting the men enter the building. Five. And his scope remains in that position in case he was needed. He hoped not, but he was ready if things went sour. What he didn't see was a sixth figure in the shadows moving towards Dalton's unprotected position.

And just when the first five men enter the building, a shot rings out. 

Inside, behind the stack of crates with Nate, Jason looks to him quickly, his eyes wide. But by now, the targets were inside and they couldn't speak without giving themselves away.

The five drug dealers all come to a sudden halt in the dimness, seeming to be just as surprised.

 Outside, Con's eyes whip to the side, his gaze coming to rest on the shooter - and a downed body. Adrenaline surges through his veins and without hesitating, he takes aim and fires. The shooter goes down. 

As the second shot is heard, the five men start to run back for the door. Jason steps out from the shadows with Nate, taking aim, though risky, in the dark. "Police! Freeze!" 

No one listens, and instead, gunfire comes in their direction, forcing them back behind the crates. "Con, what's going on out there?" Jason shouts, ducking another bullet. No answer. "Con! Dalton? 

Con's voice finally comes through - angrily. "Dalton's down... repeat, Dalton's down. Get those skunks outta there so I got some targets!"

Tal grins and shrugs, not having much of a comeback. Ryan was right... he did hang out with Eli all the time. And it wasn't nearly as bad as he joked about. If anything, he and Eli were getting to be as close as brothers - and both liked it, even if they drove each other crazy sometimes. 

"Well, your brother wanted to watch a movie. I wanted to try out the new video game. Then we wanted to rent that new action flick but they were all out. So then we thought about catching a football game, but we don't like either team, so then we went back to fighting about finding a movie here or playing the video game, so we arm wrestled for it." 

Eli snickers as he grabs some steak sauce from the fridge.

Tal throws him a look before glancing back at Ryan. "Yeah, you know how that went."

Coming to the table, Eli flexes his bicep. "So what movie are we watching?" 

Tal finally laughs. "Let Ryan pick. I don't care anymore." 

Supper was pleasant, and the steaks were good. With a little bit of banter, laughter came easily. Even though the three hung out a lot, it never seemed to get boring. By the time a movie was chosen and the evening moves on, Tal winds up on the couch with Ryan as usual. Tonight though, it felt like just a little something was... off. Tal couldn't put his finger on it, but for some reason, he felt as though he needed to hold Ryan a little extra tight, as if he might lose her if he didn't. Kissing her goodnight later, he found himself not wanting to leave, but he knew he had to. 

Still sitting in his chair and watching the last of the movie credits roll, Eli keeps to himself as Tal leaves. He'd pushed aside his questions about Ryan, but now they were coming back again. He knew better than to ask her what had happened before she'd come home earlier, but as her brother, he was worried. It seemed too many things had been upsetting her lately and he didn't like seeing her like that. 

Rosalyn finds herself smiling again, though just a little sheepishly. Here Chad was doing his best to give her an enjoyable evening and she wasn't exactly making it easy. "Yeah, okay." 

Withdrawing, she pops another shrimp in her mouth and grins. "One good thing... If it weren't for a fight, I probably wouldn't have gotten to go on a date with you."

"...and Jim's so hot that he didn't even finish up the chores. Becky came looking for him and I was the one that had to tell her about Rosalyn and Chad." 

Mick sighs as he washes his hands at the kitchen sink, cleaning up before he and Rosetta and BJ would head over to the dining hall. Things hadn't gotten easier after Chad and Rosalyn had headed to town, but Mick was just as glad that they were gone. Maybe it was just postponing more conflict, but deep down, he wanted to give the couple a chance. He didn't know Chad personally, but he knew Rosalyn was smart, and he wasn't going to assist in stopping her from being her own woman. 

Shutting off the water and grabbing a towel, Mick turns to give Rosetta a worried look. "It's been a long time since I've seen Jim that mad."

No answer

   "Dalton stay for a second on your position. We have another car that just rolled up. Keep an eye out to see if anything changed and let us know."

Giving a glance to Jason Nate kept his composure but there was a little worry in his eye. It wouldn't be unusual to get the wrong lintel but it would be strange that after doing so much research to back it up the could be wrong. This could be a game changer for the whole mission after Nate new it.

Standing around the corner of the one building Dalton looks up to see Con in position still. Than looking back to the building he watches the car. Once parked, and seeing a man get out and head into the building he starts the count that was one. Not to much longer after another car pulls up and three more men get out. That was four...there was one more than planned. If Con was awair that there was on more than things could still go smoothly.

   "Looks like there is just one extra guy but the others we need are here. Not sure why they all came together but him but we should be ok still. Con just make sure you cover me...alright?"

Getting no answer Dalton though it was a bit odd about to talk again he takes note to what time it was. They had to start this now or lose there chance. They were already a few minutes behind. He could guess Con had heard him since he'd pretty much heard everything else. It was now or never.

   "Alright guys, its show time...lets do this."

Seeing the pure sparkle in Ariel's eyes Trey could feel his head pick up even more once again. So soft, so light, but full of so much emotion in a way it was almost overwhelming, but he welcomed this new feeling and liked it. 

Hearing Ariel's response Trey felt a little bit of disappointment but a smile remained in his face anyways. He would respect her wishes and not push the line. He didn't want to lose what he'd just gotten to experience.

   "I'll be calling you tomorrow to set up our next date. This time you get to pick what we do though."

Letting his fingers lock with her for a moment Trey new he better let her go. Letting his fingers slide from hers he gives a smile and a nod. It had been a good night, a great night and for the first time since coming here he felt like he belonged. 

Retuning Tal's kiss Ryan gives a smile as she moved a little bit more into the kitchen. Giving another laugh she shakes her head. Leave it to the boys to worry about her when it should be the other way around. Catching her brothers eye Ryan does her best to remain normal but she new she was horrible at hiddig how she felt when it came to Eli. She was happy he hadn't said anything though.

   "Ah come on he can't be that bad can he? I mean you are the one who keeps hanging out with him."

Slipping past Eli and Tal to the counter to grab some plates Ryan does her best to try and clear her mind. She was with Eli and Tal now, two people she loved and she should be concentrating on them now and thats what she was going to do.

  "So did you guys figure out what move or game you wanted to play while I was gone or what?"

Isn't something...

"Okay." Jason nods. "Con, you make the coffee." 

Con tosses him a smirk, but heads for the door. "Hope you like it strong." 

It would be several hours later before the four men would head out for the warehouse. By now, they knew what each of their targets looked like and what to expect by learning about the past failed takedowns by the police department. There was no doubt the crooks would be armed, and they were considered dangerous. It shouldn't be hard for the Elite team to take them down, but all knew better than to relax...

..."Con, you settled?" Jason stands with Nate inside the warehouse near one of the windows until they would take up different positions. Receiving no response, he taps his mic and whistles. "Yo, Conrad. You fall off the roof?" 

"Naw, I'm here, I'm here." Con fiddles with his earpiece, grimacing a little as he tries to get it situated. Lying on his stomach on the rooftop across from the warehouse, he takes his rifle and looks through the scope, checking out the surroundings. "Peekaboo." 

Jason squints out the window, trying to see Con's position. "Can't see you - streetlight's in the way." 

"Can't see me?"

"Nu-uh."

"Good. That means no one else will see me either." Con fiddles with his earpiece again until giving up. It would do. 

Jason sighs and is just about to converse with Dalton too, when a set of headlights appear. "Whoa, guys... we got company. Either intel was wrong or somebody likes to be early." He glances to Nate, hoping he'd tell Dalton to stand down until they had all four men here. It would be a failed mission if they didn't bring in all of them.

Trey's touch sends a light shiver down Ariel's spine and she locks eyes with him as he nears. Her cheeks grow warm and she can feel her pulse quickening. His eyes were too soft to fear. His hand too soft to flinch. The tantalizing scent of his cologne drifted in the evening air, and she felt herself leaning slightly into his palm. 

His question makes her smile as unexpected feelings flutter in her stomach. Lifting her hand, she gently places a finger over his lips, keeping him just inches away. "It would be okay," she answers him in almost a whisper. "But I'd rather save that moment for after a few more dates. A kiss isn't something I take lightly."

Still smiling, she backs away a little, letting her finger slide from his lips so she can reach up and take his hand. Giving it a squeeze, she tosses him a wink. "I expect to hear from you soon.

"Ryan!" Eli turns from the stove and lifts up a platter that had three cooked steaks on it. "Just in time." He throws Tal a look. "See? I told you she was still alive." 

Tal rolls his eyes before standing up and greeting Ryan with a kiss. "I was just a little worried, that was all." 

Eli smirks as he sets the steaks down on the table and points a finger at his sister. "You better teach this boy not to worry so much. He's gonna give himself and ulcer." Reaching over her shoulder, he snoops in one of the sacks to find the six pack she'd brought. "Ahhh... come to papa." Grinning at her, he suddenly catches something in her eye that made him lose his smile. Had she been... crying? 

"Yeah, well when all I got to do is sit around with you, it's no wonder I was anxious for her to get here," Tal retorts. 

Eli finally drops his gaze from his sister, before simply giving her shoulder a pat. He didn't know what had gone wrong where or with whom, but he wouldn't ask - not now anyway.

Is it ok

Nate looks between the two men and gaves a shake of his head at the comment. To be honest it was slightly funny when Con didn't hear something right and it just came out wrong. Though Con had his good days and his bad days everyone had gotten pretty use to his lack of hearing and compensated for it.

   "Not to early but I would like to get there at least an hour before hand."

Looking to Dalton he gives a nod leaning back on his desk and giving a quick thought. He'd need to set everything up and though one might think there was a lot there really wasn't and it might take a half hour but he'd rather have to much time than not enough.

   "Ya, that should be ok."

Giving a nod and standing up a little straighter Nate sucks in a breath for a second thinking about everything. Pretty much everything was covered, they would have to do a little more research but nothing major. It had been a while since something a little bit bigger had gone down and now that it had Nate wanted it to go smoothly as it possibly could.

   "Alright as long as an hour works with you guys than we are good to go, and I agree about the coffee."

Turning a little to look back at Ariel Trey gives a smile. He really had, had a nice time with Ariel, who would of guess a nice clean night would be his cup of tea after all. But he'd had fun and just something about Ariel that made him want to continue.

   "Thanks for the nice night Ariel."

Bringing his hand to the side of Ariel's face Trey lets his finger run over her cheek for a moment. She skin was so warm and soft he enjoyed the way it felt under his fingers. Moving a little and pulling himself in closer to Ariel he could feel his heart start to race a little more. Coming within inches of her lips Trey could feel her breath on his skin.

   "Is it ok...if...I kiss you?"

Pulling in the driveway Ryan new she was late after taking the long way home...later than she was in the first place but her eyes were try now and she'd gotten her crying out. Her emotions were...not in check but calmed for now. Her aching heart had much to think about but for the moment she just wanted to enjoy some time with her brother and boyfriend.

   "Hey Guys I'm back...sorry I'm late. I got almost all the way home before I realized I needed to go back to the store, than on my way back I took the long way. I didn't miss dinner did I?"

Chad couldn't help the smile that grew just a little bit more on his face. Having Rosalyn say she wanted the same thing it made him feel good. She was special to him, very much so and he'd stand and tell anyone that, that tried to say differently.

   "Ok, that sounds like a fair trade to me. Now how about we eat before it gets cold."

Is too

Jason looks over Nate's shoulder and shrugs. "Naw. I don't see a much better way of doing things. If we time it right with a little bit of surprise, it shouldn't be too hard of a job."

As there's a pause, Reese nods and picks up his papers. "Looks like you guys have it under control. This is your deal now - report to me after you've got those thugs locked up downtown at the station." 

Jason gives him a sloppy salute. "You got it." 

Once the four is alone, Con stifles a yawn. "I'm thinking.... coffee." 

Jason smirks. "Yeah, we don't want you falling asleep on the job."

Con turns his head towards him with a raised eyebrow. "I am not a slob, thank you."

"I didn't say slob." Jason laughs. "I was agreeing with you. I said job... we don't want you to fall asleep on the job." 

"Oh." Con gives him a sheepish grin. "Right." Standing up, he stretches before looking to Nate once more. "Well... if the showdown's at midnight, what time do you want to be down there? I'll need a few minutes to get up on that other roof, but... otherwise, I wouldn't think we'd need to be too awful early." 

The walk at the lake had been a nice ending to a very pleasant evening, and by the time Trey got Ariel back to her house, she was looking forward to crawling into bed.  It was a good kind of tired though... one that would enable her to fall asleep without much trouble, so she could get up early and head to work the next morning. As far as the evening itself had been... she'd had more fun than anticipated, and was looking forward to more like it.

Sitting a moment in the car, she turns to give Trey a soft smile. "Thanks for the evening. I had fun."

Stepping up on the porch and unlocking the door, Alec opens it wide and relieves Mackenzie of one of the grocery sacks before motioning her inside first so he could shut and lock the door behind them again. His eyes and ears remain alert though, just in case. 

Mackenzie ambles towards the kitchen, but not before throwing a glance over her shoulder. "Did you kiss her?" 

"What? No." Alec follows after her, aiming for the kitchen counter. 

"Then why did you lean clear way over on Ryan's side, hmm?" Mackenzie sets down her bags and turns to give Alec a hard stare.

Alec stares right back at her before turning his concentration to putting away the ice cream. "If you must know, all I did was give her a peck on the cheek."

Mackenzie rolls her eyes. "That is a kiss."

"Is not."

"Is too."

"Is not.

"Is too."

"Whatever." 

Mackenzie folds her arms and waits for him to finish at the freezer. "Is she really your ex-girlfriend?" 

"Of course she is. That's what I told you, isn't it?" Alec continues to put the few other groceries away. "I made some bad choices. We broke up. She's quite happy with a new boyfriend now. End of story."

"Yeah, well, if that's the end of the story, then why did you kiss her?"

He sighs, throwing away the empty sacks. "You talk too much for a twelve-year-old." 

She gives him a crooked grin. "I've been told that a hundred times. So why did you kiss her?"

"I didn't!" Alec looks in a cupboard for a glass, even though they were right in front of him. A young kid or not... she did have a point. He hadn't kissed Ryan on the lips like he'd wanted to, but yes... yes, he'd given her a quick kiss. Turning around, he leans back on the counter and studies Mackenzie, who was still waiting for an answer. "Because I still love her. That's why." 

Mackenzie's grin widens. "So why don't you get her back?"

Alec rolls his eyes. "That... is none of your business. Come to think of it, none of this is." He gives her a shove towards the hallway. "Why don't you go get cleaned up so when Misty comes home, you're ready for supper, hmm?"

"All she had to do was stop at the store, right?" Tal glances to the door once more before hobbling back into the kitchen. 

Eli moves a steak around in the frying pan, checking it to see how close it was to being done. He'd rather grill, but this was the easier option tonight. "Yes," he answers Tal, rolling his eyes. "For the tenth time - yes!" 

"Well then where is she?" 

"She probably wanted to finish up a car or something, and I told you she had to stop at the store." 

Tal sighs and sinks down into a chair at the table. 

Eli glances over his shoulder at him. "I still don't see why you don't just call her if you're that worried." 

"Because I know you're right. And I don't want to bother her. She hates it when I get paranoid about her 'cause she can take care of herself." 

Eli grins and turns over the steak, letting it sizzle. "Then chill, bro. I'd tell you to drink a beer, but that's what she's bringing." He pokes at the meat and breathes in the aroma. "And I'll bet you that she'll come prancing through that door just in time for dinner." 

Tal snickers. "Have you ever seen Ryan prance?" 

"Yeah, when she was about ten." Eli laughs. "Okay, so when she comes barging through that door 'cause she's late... it'll be right on time for these delicious steaks."

Rosalyn's eyes lower to study Chad's hand as he held hers. He had such a strong hand, yet his touch was so tender. It made her heart flutter all over again. His words though... those made the lump rise in her throat once more. She didn't deserve someone like him, for sure. He shouldn't have to deal with her dad, or try to form a relationship long distance. Yet it made her feel so very special, she knew she would be foolish to turn down this chance at happiness. 

Finally lifting her gaze again, she manages a small smile. "I'm sorry... Maybe I just needed to hear it one more time. Or maybe I just can't believe that anybody would care enough to stick around." 

Her thumb finds its way around one of his fingers to give it a squeeze. "I do want the same thing... I'll try not to keep giving you a way out if you'll keep on telling me you want to stay."

Anywhere

As Alec continues to sit in Ryan's car she just continues to watch him. She couldn't help but not take her eyes off him. She'd always thought he was good looking and now with a little bit of a calm edge to him it just seemed to add to his attraction.

   "I'd never want to go back and redo something. If I did than I wouldn't have learned the lessons I have. I wouldn't mind changing a few situations though with the knowledge that was gained from it."

Looking away for a second Ryan plays with a loose string thats was on her steering wheel cover. She missed Alec, he had been something special to her, but now...now things were different and they just couldn't be the way they were. Even if she did still care very deeply for Alec. 

As Alec comes close and gives her a kiss on the cheek Ryan can feel her heart start to race. Even when he'd backed away it was still racing. Bringing a hand to her cheek it was almost like she skin was on fire but in a good way. Watching Alec get out Ryan watches him as a tear forms in her eye. So many mixed emotions churned inside her. When did things get so hard? She loved Tal but...she loved Alec still too.

Pulling out of the driveway Ryan backs out of the parking spot and heads for home. This time though she would take the long way as a few tears stream from her eyes. She just wanted to be healed, not to hurt anymore. She didn't like this confusion.

Looking down at his lobster and steak Chad's lips watered. It looked and smelled so well he could hardly contain his own excitement. Taking his first bite it melted in his mouth as he looked across the table at Rosalyn. Hearing her words Chad puts his fork and knife down once again. Cocking his head as he looked at her his eyes were stirn but soft and his voice matched.

   "Rosalyn, this is the second time you've said this to me, and you need to stop. I'm not going anywhere or else I already would have left. Anyone can think what they want about me, and though it would hurt, I know what I want and I am not willing to let it walk away when I know she wants the same thing."

Reaching his hand across the table and letting it rest on Rosalyn's Chad gives a smile to her before closing her hand a little bit letting his just wrap around hers. He had strong feelings for her even over a short amount of time. Tomorrow was uncertain but he new how he felt now and he wouldn't give that up.

Tender

Watching Ryan's eyes, Alec's heart beat a little faster. Oh if only he could rewind his life to right before he made such awful mistakes. To back up and erase his choices. The things that had separated him from the one person who had gotten through to his heart - and he hadn't even realized that until it was too late. 

Realizing he'd been holding his breath, he turns his sights out the windshield for a moment, giving a quiet laugh. "I seem to have forgotten how to get out of your car." 

Looking down, he fiddles with the key he'd retrieved from his pocket, ready to go inside the house. "Ever wish that there were some magic words that could take you back in time so you could redo everything you regret?" 

His eyes drift back to Ryan's again. "I always thought fairytales were stupid... until I found myself wishing there was a way to rewrite my life and have it all magically turn out okay in the end. But..." He sighs deeply. "I suppose that's what a man gets for thinking he's got it all under control and forgetting about the things that mean the most to him." He shakes his head. "Seeing Carson make a similar mistake is like reliving it... and seeing you..." 

He reaches out slowly and tucks a strand of hair behind her ear with a gentle touch. "...Just makes me wish all the more for that fairytale." 

Without stopping to think, he leans over quickly and gives her cheek a tender kiss before pulling back and slipping out of the car. Shutting the door, he taps his palm on the roof before turning and heading to the house without looking back.

Rosalyn manages a quiet laugh at Chad's humor about the lobster. She hadn't thought of how his job might affect his food preferences. "I like seafood too. Actually, it's been quite a while since I've had any. Usually I only come to town for shopping during the week. Or church on Sundays. It's probably been about six months since I was in town for supper at all, and I think that was after some auction or something. I'm pretty sure the meal was hotdogs."

Closing her eyes and just letting herself relax next to Chad, she tries to forget about her dad for now so she could enjoy the evening. Easier said than done, but if anybody could get her to have fun, she had a feeling, it would be Chad.

"There's a decent restaurant I've been to once or twice - I can't remember what it's called, but it's basically a steakhouse and they've got some seafood too..."

...Though not remembering the restaurant name, she still knew how to get there, so once they finally arrive to town, she directs Chad the right way. By the time they get to the restaurant it was supper time, and by the time they get settled, order and receive their food, Rosalyn's stomach was ready to handle the scrumptious smelling food. She'd chosen a dinner with both shrimp and lobster, taking advantage of actually getting to eat here again.

"Thank you, Chad..." She pauses her eating to look across at him, truly thankful that he'd still been willing to stick around after what had happened. "I don't know what things will be like tomorrow... but I'd still understand it if you didn't want to stay. I wouldn't hold it against you."

Anytime

Chasing out and than heading for her car Ryan can't help but laugh at Mackenzie as she makes comments about her car. It always made her feel good when someone would say something, and more so when it was the innocents of a child. It kind of felt like she was bringing a bright spot to there day to meet someone who to them was important.

   "Always remember even though your a girl you can do anything you put your mind too."

Getting into the car and making sure Mackenzie and Alec were all settled Ryan pulls out and down the road. The ride was a little slower than she normal went but that was because of Mackenzie being in the car. Ryan didn't want to put the girls life in danger and this gave her some time to think too.

There was something about Alec that was much different that Ryan had been use to. In the presents of Mackenzie, he seemed...calm,  with a good head on his shoulders and a deep love for the child. She wondered if that was just when the girl was around or had he changed to be like that now? Giving a glance to the side She can't help but noticed he looked much different too. He'd really cleaned up and looked like he was working twords being on the right road. 

Pulling in the driveway and helping Mackenzie out of the car Ryan smiles and gives a wave back to her as she heads up to the house. It had been a nice ride and Ryan had enjoyed meeting her.

   "Cut kid. She seems to like you a lot. I think its pretty cool your doing this for her."

Looking to Alec Ryan gives a smile letting her eyes linger on him for a moment. Now that she wasn't driving she was able to look at him a little better and he was starting to get life back in his eyes. Thought there was still a missing spark but there was life again. Emotions bubbled inside Ryan as her eyes run over his face and on his lips for a second before back to his eyes.

   "Anytime Alec, I dont mind at all."

League

Mackenzie smiles broadly before looking back to Alec and giving his arm a poke. "This is when you're supposed to say yes." 

Alec finally breaks his gaze from Ryan and looks down at his niece with a smirk. "Since when did you start running things?" 

"I don't run things... I just... convince you?" 

Alec tries to withhold his laugh and he gives her a hard enough nudge that she has to stumble to catch her balance. Sighing, he looks back to Ryan, recovering from his embarrassment. "For her sake, I'll accept... thank you." Glancing around and realizing that the lines had grown even longer, he shrugs lamely. "And I guess this is our new spot in line." 

Though just a little awkward, Alec remains in line behind Ryan, keeping himself busy talking to Mackenzie about supper rather than trying to force conversation with Ryan. Once they were all finished shopping, Alec and Mackenzie followed her out to her car - which Mackenzie discovered was very cool. 

"Wow... this is a neat car. It looks like it could be a race car." 

This time, Alec laughs outright as he opens the passenger door. "Genius. It is a race car. As a matter of fact, you're looking at a mighty fine racer."

Mackenzie's eyes widen before climbing in. "Really?"

"Mm-hmm. Ryan here is one of the best drivers I know. Some people think she wouldn't be good just because she's a girl, but lemme tell you... she could whup any guy's butt any day. And.. she does."

Mackenzie giggles. "Did you ever race against her?"

"You kidding?" Alec scoffs, getting in and making sure Mackenzie gets settled in the narrow back seat. "I'd be too frightened. She's always been..." His voice trails off for a moment, returning more quietly. "...out of my league." Buckling in, he keeps his eyes on the road instead of on Ryan where they wanted to be. He was very grateful for the ride, but he knew she probably wouldn't be doing this, if it weren't for the young girl. 

The ride didn't take long though, and as they pull into the driveway, Alec scoots forward and opens the door. "Here, Mac... climb on out and take these bags to the porch, would you? I'm right behind ya." 

Mackenzie nods and crawls out behind him, taking the bags. As she walks away though, she turns and gives a little wave and smile to Ryan before scurrying up to the porch to wait at the door. 

Still in the car, Alec slides back again and finally turns to look at Ryan. "She's um... spending the evening over here. Misty and Carson split and she's not allowed to see him so... I guess I'm trying to fill some sort of spot for her. Not that I know how, but we get along okay." 

Swallowing hard, his eyes search Ryan's face. Being in her car... this close... it brought back many a memory. "Thanks again for the lift... I appreciate it."

Could

Aiming for another line Ryan was a bit irritated with herself as she juggled the items in her hand. She was going to be late getting home now thats she had already been almost home when she remembered about stopping at the same. If Eli didn't have his beer with his steak she'd never hear the end of it. So turning around and coming back seemed like a better option.

As the young woman walks up to her Ryan stops just looking down at her. Something about her name rang a bell but Ryan just couldn't put a finger on it. Following her gaze though as she says she is with him Ryan looks up and is a bit surprised. Now she remembered who the girl was from a time long ago when Alec had let her know about his niece.

   "Well Hey there. I do have a car..and..."

Getting cut off by Alec Ryan gives a small smart as he and Mac go back and forth for a little bit. Watching them both Ryan couldn't help but see the bond that was there even if they were going back and forth. She couldn't help but smile at the whole scene.

   "You can tell your a Banks...but between you and be..thats not always a bad thing...right?"

Looking to Mackenzie and than back at Alec Ryan just gives a little shake of her head though her eye stay on Alec for a very long moment as her feelings bubble and churn. It seemed like she was seeing more and more of him lately and she had mixed feelings about it. On one had it was nice, and she enjoyed seeing him but on the other...she heart belonged to Tal now, Alec had his chance and blew it. 

Glancing down at Mac again she did feel slightly bad for the young girl and having to walk. She was already late heading home maybe a little longer would be ok.

   "Now if I walked away now after the plead I just heard that would make me heartless. So if you guys would really like a ride I can offer you one. I promise I wont drive to fast either."

Thinking for a long second and taking in all the information Nate leans against the desk with the folder in his hand. This wouldn't be to hard of a case, but it still needed to be planned out right. Taking the blue prints of the building he spreads it across the table along with a white peace of chalk.

   "Ok, we could use Con here, that way the front doors and windows are covers. We are lucky that this is an old building with one exit. How ever its double doored on the inside so we are going to have to keep our eyes open. Dalton, can move in, Jase and I can go around from the sides taking the people out there if need be."

Looking back to Jason Nate gives a small nod to him. He'd pretty much had it planned out in his head how things should work but he'd like to have everyone else thought as well.

   "How about you Jase? Any more ideas?"

  "Well...rusty in how to do a relationship the right way in general. I...don't want to mess this one up."

Trey could feel his cheeks go slightly red he did want to do things right even though Ariel new his past in a way it still embarrassed him.  Talking about it made it hard too but he was moving forward and doing his best to over come the past.

"I think I am doing pretty good so far, and how could I not be when I have someone like you on my arm."

"Circumstances"

Rosalyn manages a quiet laugh at Chad's humor about the lobster. She hadn't thought of how his job might affect his food preferences. "I like seafood too. Actually, it's been quite a while since I've had any. Usually I only come to town for shopping during the week. Or church on Sundays. It's probably been about six months since I was in town for supper at all, and I think that was after some auction or something. I'm pretty sure the meal was hotdogs." 

Closing her eyes and just letting herself relax next to Chad, she tries to forget about her dad for now so she could enjoy the evening. Easier said than done, but if anybody could get her to have fun, she had a feeling, it would be Chad. 

"There's a decent restaurant I've been to once or twice - I can't remember what it's called, but it's basically a steakhouse and they've got some seafood too..."

...Though not remembering the restaurant name, she still knew how to get there, so once they finally arrive to town, she directs Chad the right way. By the time they get to the restaurant it was supper time, and by the time they get settled, order and receive their food, Rosalyn's stomach was ready to handle the scrumptious smelling food. She'd chosen a dinner with both shrimp and lobster, taking advantage of actually getting to eat here again. 

"Thank you, Chad..." She pauses her eating to look across at him, truly thankful that he'd still been willing to stick around after what had happened. "I don't know what things will be like tomorrow... but I'd still understand it if you didn't want to stay. I wouldn't hold it against you."

Ariel laughs, letting Trey put his arm around her shoulders. "Only rusty since you've been in Nevada, I presume." 

Sliding her feet through the sand, she enjoys the sensation of the cool breeze combing through her hair. "Well, for what it's worth, if this is our first official date, you're doing an okay job." Glancing up at him her lips curl into a grin. "If you get me  back to my place without getting slapped then you'll know you fared well."

"There's a drug deal going down, and our goal is to stop it." Reese points to the map on the whiteboard in the meeting room. "Intel suggests there's going to be a meeting here at this warehouse. Intel also suggests that there will only be three or four people involved. But if we can bring those four in we will have successfully put two drug rings out of commission - temporarily at least." 

Turning around, he looks to Nate, Dalton, Jason and Con. "Tonight at midnight is when our targets should be meeting. They will most likely be armed and quite dangerous. The police have already had two run-ins with them and the outcome was not pretty. That's why they've come to us.  For some reason, these four have been pretty slippery. But I figure you four against them puts the odds in our favor by far." 

Jason sits at the table with the others, tapping his pencil on the notepad in front of him. It was early evening and all here would be working late tonight. Dalton wasn't usually put in the field, but Pete and Gunner were busy with something else and Wyatt was off. Jason was just as glad Reese was using Dalton though so they'd have four men out there tonight. Con knew his stuff and so did Nate - and Jason trusted Dalton too. He might usually be back here behind the computers, but he was a force to be reckoned with, no doubt. This right here was why they were called the Elite. 

Jason raises his hand slightly. "So you got a game plan or you want us to figure that out?" 

Reese shrugs. "I'm going to leave tactics up to you, although I suggest looking over the printouts Dalton has of the warehouse layout." 

Con leans back in his chair, thinking. "Prolly be good if we had a sniper's view - any buildings closeby?" 

"Mm-hmm. That's why I wanted you in on this. You're the logical pick to keep an eagle's eye on things. There's a building right across the street from this place that has an adequate roof - from there you should be able to see several entrances."

"Okay, good." Con glances to the other three, making eye contact with Nate last. "You're the high ranking officer in this one. What kind of a setup do you see?"

"No... nu-uh... no..." 

Alec rolls his eyes and points to another kind of ice cream in the freezer section of the grocery store. "Come on... you gotta like caramel and chocolate. Everybody does." 

Mackenzie smirks at him. "Maybe you're the weird one. Mint is my favorite."

"Well why didn't you say so to begin with?" Alec shifts the other items around in his arms to pick up the carton of ice cream. "How's this?"

Mackenzie nods. "Okay." 

"Okay... just okay." Alec huffs a sigh and turns to head down one of the other aisles. "Come on, Blondie. Last thing we need is some potato chips to go with the grilled cheese sandwiches tonight." 

He hadn't planned on bringing Mackenzie shopping tonight, but as luck would have it, Misty had called earlier, saying she'd be stuck at work a while longer today... and it just happened to be a night that Mackenzie was joining them for the evening. Ken hadn't seemed too leery dropping off his daughter in Alec's care for a little while... which had turned into more than a little while, with another call asking Alec to get some groceries so Misty could fix supper as soon as she got home. Alec didn't mind, although he wasn't going to risk taking Mackenzie on his motorcycle... yet... so they'd ended up walking to the store. It would take them a while to get back home, but Alec figured they might get there about the same time as Misty. As far as safety went, he was more concerned about being home when Misty was, than being out and about. She was the target, not him or Mackenzie, and Jason wasn't going to be here until quite late, by the sounds of it. 

"Can we get the sour cream and onion kind?" Mackenzie skips ahead to the chip selection, pointing out her favorite kind. 

Alec grins and nods. "Yeah, okay. You're gonna get spoiled, you know that?"

Mackenzie giggles as he grabs the bag of chips. "Isn't that what uncles are for?"

Alec squints and gives her a light shove to the back of the head. "Come on. We got a long walk and we wanna beat Misty back."

Mackenzie sighs. "Do you walk everywhere?"

"Sometimes." Getting up to one of the checkout lanes, Alec stands with her to wait in line. Glancing around, he suddenly spots someone he'd not planned on seeing. His heart jumps, and for a moment, he's caught staring. 

Mackenzie notices his demeanor change, and follows his gaze to a very pretty dark-haired woman. "Who's that?" 

Alec almost jumps. "Huh? Oh, um... Just..." His eyes remained glued on Ryan, watching her head for another checkout lane. 

"Well?" Mackenzie elbows him. 

Alec looks down at her for a moment before sighing. "That would be my ex-girlfriend."

"Seriously?" Mackenzie looks back over to Ryan again. "How come you broke up?"

"Well, I... guess it was my fault." Alec sighs. "Sometimes guys like me aren't too smart." 

"You so look like you wish you hadn't  broke up."

Alec's eyebrows arc. "Hush. I'm not that obvious."

"Oh yes you are." Mackenzie rolls her eyes. "You have no guts when you need them."

"What are you-" Alec stops short as Mackenzie starts to head for Ryan. "Hey, get back here. What are you doing?" 

Mackenzie just keeps right on walking until she'd come up close to Ryan and gotten her attention. "Hi. My name's Mackenzie. I'm with him." She points back to Alec before giving a sigh of disgust. "My feet are killing me and he and I have to walk allll the way back home. But something tells me he is so not going to ask you for a ride. So I thought I'd-"

By now, Alec had caught up to her from behind, and he slips a hand over her mouth. "Ummm..." He looks at Ryan, his face gaining a bit of heat. "Hi. Sorry. This is my niece who... has a big mouth."

Mackenzie shoos away his hand. "I do not!" She smiles sweetly up at Ryan. "You do have a car, right?"

Alec eyes the ceiling and shakes his head. "Mac... your feet will last."

"They will not! I have a blister and-"

"So do I, but you don't see me complaining. Ryan lives the other direction, and it's rude to ask her to give us a ride." He looks down at Mackenzie, throwing her an annoyed glance. "Especially under the circumstances." 

"What circumstances?" She quirks an eyebrow. "You mean about you not being smart enough to keep a girlfriend?"

"Mac!!" 

"Okay, okay!" Mackenzie holds up her hands in defense. "I was just trying to get us home before Misty." 

By now, Alec was more than embarrassed, leaning more towards mortified. Eying Ryan, he cringes a little and clears his throat. "So, um... yeah..."

Unstressful

As Rosalyn leans into him Chad gives a small smile. Taking his hand from her own he places it around his shoulder and pulls her a little closer. This was one of those time she was happy to have a jeep with the seats connected so he could bring her closer and still drive safely.

   "Lets see...what kind of food do I like?"

Chad pauses for a moment keeping his eyes on the road as he continued to drive. Giving a little chuckle while he was thinking about the question. So many things ran through his mind to him it was a bit funny.

   "I pretty much like all food. I think the only reason I don't look like a blimp is because of my line of work. I would have to say something I like to eat the most is steak, and I like lobster too. I kinda feel like a trader though when I eat it. How about you? What are somethings you like to eat?"

Hearing Ariel didn't mind walking on the beach Trey lets out a little sigh of re leaf. He new she wasn't picky on where they went or the stuff they did but there had been a little worry anyways that maybe she wouldn't like the idea of being at the beach this late. Slipping off his own shoes and throwing them into the car along with Ariel's Trey was acceptance to her hand slipping into his locking his fingers with hers.

  "Wonderful night, wonderful Lady by my side, sounds like a good night to me."

Starting to walk forward and feeling the sand under his feet it tickled a little bit. He'd never noticed that before. He wondered why...was it Rosalyn had awoken something inside of him that made him relize more, or was it that he was just taking the time. Maybe it was both.

   "I think this was a good idea. You'll have to forgive me when it comes to dating...I'm a little rusty. "

Pulling Ariel in a little closer Trey puts an arm over her shoulder and brings her in closer to him. Tucking her safly under his arm he continues to walk enjoying the night. He'd never been with a woman like this before. It was different though, it was...unstressful taking it slow and he...liked it.

Moon

Chad's words and kiss were reassuring to Rosalyn, although she still harbored doubts in the back of her mind. Would her dad calm down? What if he didn't? Would Chad really stick around? Was she really worth his effort? 

Her fingers automatically lock with his and she has no choice but to follow his steps. "I dunno..." She swipes at her eyes, angry that the tears still wanted to come. "Head for town I guess, and we can decide when we get there. Just let me grab my purse from the house."

It was only a handful of minutes later that Rosalyn finds herself in the passenger seat of Chad's jeep as they aimed for town. Leaning her head against the window, she's quiet, watching the scenery go by. She hadn't told anyone she was leaving. Jade would find the half-finished dishes in the kitchen. Her mom would wonder where she'd disappeared to. News would travel fast though. It was more than likely that Mick wasn't the only person who had witnessed the loud argument. He'd probably make sure her mother knew where she'd gone though. 

Taking a deep breath and letting it out slowly, Rosalyn looks out the corner of her eye at Chad while he drove. She wasn't sure why she felt so safe with him, or why he evoked the feeling that that she just wanted to lose herself in his arms. But she was too tired to care about the whys of it all. 

Leaning over the other way, she rests her head on his shoulder, her gaze watching the road ahead. "It'll take a while to get to town," she comments quietly. "But that'll give you time to tell me what kind of food you like so we can pick somewhere to go." 

As Ariel realizes that Trey is headed for the lake, she smiles to herself. She hadn't expected him to go all the way out there, but she wasn't going to argue. It was too nice of an evening to waste, and she did like the lakeside beach. 

The ride was quiet for the most part but Ariel didn't mind. It was peaceful - not awkward. 

Finally getting to the lake and having Trey come around to open the door, she grins up at him before stepping out. "I've always liked walking in the sand." Slipping off her sandals, she tosses them back in the car, letting her bare feet sink into the cool sand. Wriggling her toes, her grin remains. "I think God invented sand for bare feet," she muses.

Taking the initiative to slip her hand into Trey's, she walks beside him closer to the water. "Mmm.... this is a gorgeous night." Her eyes rise to see the moon. It really had been a perfect evening. She was glad she'd accepted Trey's invitation.

Kinda Fun

As Rosalyn turns and makes her comment Chad places both his hands on her shoulders. His voice was stern but loving still as he talked to her. He didn't like seeing her like this at all. It made his own heart break for her.

   "I am only going to tell you this once...I am not going anywhere so you can stop saying that."

Leaning down and placing a kiss on Rosalyn's lips Chad with draws and gives her a smile before sliding his hand down her arm once again locking his had with her and starting forward twords his jeep.

   "We are in this together and now together we are going to have a nice date. Any suggestions on where to go?"

Making there way back to Ariel's apartment the night had come to an end all to quickly and Trey really didn't wan tot say goodnight to her yet. Hearing her suggestion about taking a walk Trey glances out of the courner of his eye and gives a smile. Why hadn't he thought of that one.

   "A walk does sound nice."

Coming to the next road Trey takes a left instead of continuing straight. He new the perfect place to go for a walk on a warm evening. They had been there before many times before but it was still one of the best place and Alec liked it.

Finally getting to the beach Alec doesn't stop where the drive way was but pulls the car across the grass and down by the same. Cutting the engine He sits there for a second before getting out and going around to Ariel's side.

   "I hope you don't mind walking in the sand. It will be fun."