Not that I...

Looking up at Gunner Misty gives a smile but seeing the new person walking behind him she stops. Seeing what condition he was in she stands ready to help. Motioning for Gunner to bring him over to the table and set him down Misty goes to the counter and grabs a few things she needed.

   "What on earth? It looks like you were in a bar fight."

Setting to work Misty looks over the pashent and stands to bandage, stitch, and clean him up. Some places were worse than other and she wasn't to sure what happened but she could ask all that stuff a little later. 

It doesn't take long for Misty to clean everything up and finally be washing her own hands along with her tools. Once finished she looks to Gunner and gives a small nod. He looked better than when he first go here so many Rick wouldn't have as much of a heart attack once she showed up. Going back over to the table and sitting down in the chair across from it Misty cocks her head a little bit to the side.

   "So now that I've fixed you up for the day how about I find out you name and what happened? It will make the report I have to do much easier to complete."

Stacy gives a nod thankful that Dylan was being thoughtful but after everything Stacy had a feeling that Dylan would be ok, and if he did try anything Ashlee would be quick to shoot him down and than let her know. She had to trust them, and she had to trust her daughter.

   "I am sure she wouldn't mind at all. She enjoy spending time with you and its nice to see her smile. Just don't let me down, and help keep he safe ok?"

Stacy gives Dylan's arm a little pat as if accepting the fact that her daughter was going to spend time with him even if she didn't like it. She might as well get use to it and accept it. After all watching Dylan for a little bit now he seemed harmless. And she wanted him to know she was trying to trust him more.

   "He does seem pretty cool. Kinda of like he's still a kid himself even though he has a family. I think I like him."

Looking down at Rosalyn and seeing her looking back up at him Chad can't help but let his smile grow even bigger. Bringing a hand to her cheek he cradles her head before leaning down and placing a kiss on her lips. Letting it linger for a few long moments before drawing back. Feeling his head racing he could stand there and kiss her all day though he new it was probley a bad idea.

   "You know if we stand here all day those weeds in the garden are never going to get pulled. Think we should finish up here and get to that some time soon? If not than I am liable to sit here and kiss you all day."

Leaning down and placing another soft kiss on her lips Chad pulls away letting his eyes twinkle and dance with the depth in Rosalyn's. He felt as though she was his princess, and he loved treating her that way.  She was very special to him, and he would always remember to show her that.

   "Not that I mind that at all. I just think...I don't want to push twords losing my head anymore than I already have."

Stranger

Clint nods, lifting his cup in a "you're welcome" before gulping down the rest of the coffee. Cringing a little as the strong liquid slides down his throat, he sets the mug in the sink before coughing. "Mm. Smooth."

Passing by the other two on his way out again, he pauses, looking over his shoulder at them. His eyes still twinkled, but his face was a little more serious now. "If you guys do need a break from any head-choppers for a while though, you're both more than welcome to come hang out a while in the shop." He grins at Rosalyn. "Even you, even though you are a woman."

Rosalyn really did appreciate the offer. It was apparent that whether he agreed with her decision or not, he would support her, despite their father's stance. Just knowing she and Chad could hide out with Clint for a while if need be was enough to give her a little bit of peace. "Thanks." 

"Yup." Giving a little wave, he turns back around and heads for the back door, skipping out on breakfast.

Sighing, Rosalyn takes Chad's arms, wrapping them a little tighter around herself as she leaned her head back on his chest. "I guess I can't complain about my brother," she admits. "We've had a few rough spots, but he really is a good guy." She tilts her head up so she can see Chad's face. "And you are too."

Dylan shifts his weight a bit awkwardly but nods. "Yeah, okay." That sounded alright. He wouldn't mind if Ashlee came along. She wasn't the annoying type at least, and her company was okay. "I just gotta get some clothes," he explains. "So's long as Ash doesn't mind, I don't." His eyes study Stacy with an intensity one could almost feel, while his face remains expressionless. "And as long as you don't mind me and her bein' alone together for a while."

Every once in a while, a strange face would show up on the Elite's main floor, though usually it was only those invited or brought in by the agents. Today though, it wasn't just that a stranger had arrived - the surprise was due to the shape the visitor was in. 

"Misty?" Gunner knocks on the infirmary door before pushing it open. He new Rick was off today - of course, today of all days. "Need your help here." 

Clay trudges in behind him, barely able to see out of one eye, while the other was swollen shut completely. His face was bruised and bloodied, although it looked like most of the blood had dried already around the gashes by his eye and across his cheek. His lower lip was split and swollen as well, and he kept one arm wrapped around his aching ribcage.

Teetering a little, Gunner is quick to grab him. "Whoa, easy. You better sit down." 

Clay sees the table and numbly obeys before he fell over. "I sh'da c'lled f'rst," he mumbles, unable to speak clearly. "R'ck j'st... um..." He struggles to form words in his mind, let alone his mouth which hurt to move at all. 

"Rick's apparently his uncle," Gunner explains quickly to Misty. "Least ways, that's what I can tell."

Clay nods and catches himself from falling onto his side as he sat. 

Gunner grimaces at he shape the man was in. "Thought you better start cleaning him up while I call Rick and see if he'll come in." 

Remember

Chad can't help but smile at Clint's comment about losing his head with Rosalyn. Some might say he already had with all the crazyness he was going on with. But if that was losing his head, than he really didn't want to keep it. How he felt with Rosalyn was to amazing to want to change or lose it. 

   "It's the guy code we have to at least warn each other  you know. Doesn't mean I am going to listen though."

Chad gives a wink to Rosalyn before a nod to Clint. He didn't have to say it but he felt as though He was giving his approve. Chad was happy about that at least he wouldn't be killed by Rosalyn's brother along with her father. At least he had someone to stand behind him and be happy even for just a little bit.

   "I'll have to remember that in case I just need to get away. However I haven't found a moment yet that I want to get away yet, but its good to know just in case! Thanks Clint."

Having Dylan come up to her Stacy was a little surprised it was very rare that he even looked at her let alone talk to her. Giving a smile Stacy turns a little to look at Dylan hearing what he had to said she smiles a little more. It was nice to hear him ask and not just try to take off.

   "Ash asked me if she could go into town this weekend as well so I was going to drive her. I have a few things I need to do as well. How about I drop you guys off to do the things you need to and than I will go do what I need to do as well."

Stacy would still be close but than Ash and Dylan could be by themselves as well and have a nice time. Not having someone hovering over them would maybe make them both feel well and she new Dylan didn't like the idea of someone always watching him so this would be a little bit of freedom. Maybe Eric would come too and than she had someone to do something with too.

Those in need

Jason stands, smiling as he wraps his arms around Misty in a hug. "You better, since I'm staying the night."

Bending down, he gives her lips a long, tender kiss before pulling back. "Goodnight. Sleep well." 

It would feel strange tonight, knowing he'd be off security duty tomorrow. It was only right though, and it did seem the threat of the Agency had passed. Whether he agreed with how Carson had handled things or not, he did agree that the note was a sign things would be quiet for a while. 

Settling in the chair for the night, Jason kept his ears open just in case. His mind was pretty far away though. It circled him and Misty. Carson. What the future held. And he just didn't know...

Alec gained little sleep through the night, and even less rest. He'd often wondered at people who claimed to have heartache. He'd always thought they were silly and just needed to buck up. But now...now he could relate. And it wasn't fun. And he didn't know how to buck up. 

As the morning came though, he knew he couldn't sit around all day. He needed to clear his mind. Think about something else. So rising early, he made sure not to startle Jason, then left a note for Misty, letting her know he'd be out job hunting, then back at the house later to work in the shed. And this time he did take his phone with him. He knew he was free and that Misty didn't mind whatever he chose to do with his time... but he did feel badly for worrying her yesterday and he didn't want to do it again...

...It was a few hours later after some mindless driving around town and stopping by a few places for some job applications. As Alec heads down a familiar street though, he had the same thought he'd had the night before. He wasn't a hundred percent sure what his point was, but since the notion was still with him today, well... he might as well follow through. It would probably do nothing good, but it couldn't make things worse, and at this point he had very little to lose anyway. Approaching the door of Mom and Pop's, he was quite prepared to be thrown out. It wasn't like it hadn't happened before.

It was early yet, but finding the front door open, Alec enters cautiously, letting the bell ring above his head. He didn't want to startle his brother though. "Carson? You here?"

Hearing the bell then a familiar voice, Carson bristles. What on earth was Alec doing here? The restaurant had only been open for half an hour and it wasn't lunchtime yet. Sighing, he emerges from the kitchen, hands on hips. "What do you want, Alec?"

Alec bites his lip and stops before reaching the counter. He'd rehearsed his words over and over in his mind, but it wasn't the same as actually speaking them. It wasn't even something he'd usually say but... this time was just...different. 

 "I just, um.... well, I guess I just wanted to say how sorry I am about how things have worked out for you." He shrugs. "I can't imagine what it feels like... or how you're managing... but I sorta got a taste yesterday of having my heart ripped in two 'cause the one I love doesn't want anything to do with me anymore. So... I guess it sorta gave me a new perspective on what you're going through and... I just wanted to say I'm sorry that there hasn't been anything I could do to help."

Carson blinks. His ire was quickly diminishing, from the sheer shock of Alec's sincere tone. Did he really mean what he said? Was he just putting on an act? For some reason, Carson didn't think so. He wasn't sure he'd ever seen Alec so sincere. And... his words were... surprising. "You came all the way over here just to say that?"

Alec shrugs again. "Yeah. I mean I was riding around looking for work, but yeah, that's all I wanted." He cocks his head, studying Carson for a moment. He'd lost weight... his eyes were dark... he had the look about him like that of a lost man. Alec knew - he saw that same look every time he looked in a mirror. "You doin' okay?"

Carson scoffs and moves forward to lean an elbow on the counter. "I'm surviving. Be a whole lot better if I had my wife back, but apparently that's my fault." He pauses, unsure where this whole thing was going. Was Alec to be trusted? Did he even want to start this dialogue? His heart won out. "How's Misty?"

"Fine." Alec nods. "Doing well. She misses you."

Carson's eyebrows rise. "She coulda fooled me."

"Yeah, well, it's the principle of the thing. You done her wrong. Just 'cause she misses you doesn't mean she's gonna give in. She's doing alright though."

"And she and Jason?"

Alec purses his lips. "What do you want me to say?"

"I dunno." Carson shrugs before sighing. "That they're not that close. That it's just a surface relationship so she's got somebody to lean on. That they're more friends than anything." He sees Alec's eyes and shakes his head. "But I know it's not the truth. So I guess I don't want you to say anything."

Alec nods slowly. "Yeah... well... she's being taken care of so that you don't have to worry about."

"Good."

Alec shifts his weight awkwardly a moment before backing up a step. "I guess I'll go. I'll probably see you around sometime."

"Yeah, okay." Carson watches as Alec heads for the door, when something unexpected happens in his heart. "Alec?"

Alec stops and looks over his shoulder. "Huh?"

"Three nights a week. Nine to midnight. Dishes and floors - that sort of thing. It's not much but... I'll pay you for it."

Alec can feel himself tense from simple shock. He'd been turned down flat once before when he'd been looking for work. "I... really?"

"I only offer once."

"Well yes... sure... I mean of course. It's better than what I got now and that's nothing."

"Good. See you tomorrow night then."

A small smile spreads across Alec's lips. "Okay. Thanks." 

Clint cocks his head, watching Chad and Rosalyn interact and processing the man's words. He did seem sincere...and either a total flirt, or in love. Maybe both. But Clint had to admit that he liked him. He wasn't sure why... maybe it was the way he held Rosalyn like she was really worth something - not just a prize he was after. And he had come quite a ways just to see her. No matter what Jim thought, Clint considered it to be a neat gesture to say the least. And his sister seemed so happy with him. How could he give her a bad time?

Taking another swig of coffee, he grins. "Getting your head chopped off is just one way to lose it. Careful with that girl you got there... she's pretty capable of making you lose your head too."

Rosalyn scoffs, but can't help the little smile. Slipping her arm around Chad's waist, she leans her head on his chest and sticks her tongue out at her brother. "Shush, you."

"Hey now. gotta give a man a fighting chance. We stick together, ya know. If I didn't give him a little help at least, I'd feel bad."

"Sure you would." 

"Mm-hmm." Clint nods before another sip of coffee, after which he shakes his head vigorously. "Wowza... I think I'm already awake. Which means I need to get back to working on that stupid tractor." His eyes move back to Chad. "If she gets to be too much today, come on over to the shop. No women allowed there, and I do offer shelter to those in need." 

Entering the dining hall a little cautiously, Dylan's eyes sweep the tables. He didn't usually come in here in the mornings, unless he wanted some coffee, so it was a little odd to see him there. But today he had a task to do before he forgot. 

Spotting Stacy over at one of the tables, he heads in her direction, figuring he had a few minutes before Eric would show up. It seemed the two were together more often than not lately. 

Approaching slowly, he doesn't bother to sit down - he wasn't in the habit of intruding. "Hey, Stacy?" He chews the inside of his lip. Though things had been going pretty well lately, he still felt a little awkward addressing her directly. "Um... I gotta go to town sometime soon and... I know you'll prolly hafta go with me. I just wondered when it might be a good time for you." In truth, it was some new jeans that he needed. He was finally gaining some weight, and though it was much healthier, his waist was needing another size up. "I can find somebody else to drive if you don't want to," he adds.

Worth It

Misty can't help but laugh as she gives another sip of her tea. She did enjoy cooking for Jason and for Alec. It was nice to not just be herself and limit what she had to make though she did have a bigger appetite now it just wouldn't be the same on her own.

   "Hey you wont to still come over and let me cook for you I have no problem with that at all."

Giving another smile to Misty finishes off her tea before getting up and putting her glass into the sink. Coming back to the table and giving a yawn Misty new she should get some sleep. She did have work tomorrow.

   "Well, as much as I don't want to I should probley get some sleep. See you in the morning?"

   "Ha, I did hear Angel was good, but I am not to worried about losing my head. However if anyone tries it was worth it. Rosalyn is pretty special and I'd be a fool to just walk away no matter the price i must pay."

Looking to Rosalyn and giving a smile sometimes Chad didn't even know his words were poetic till they were already said. By than it was to late to take them back, not that he wanted to anyways. He meant what he said about Rosalyn and it he was more than proud to express his feelings.

   "Sometimes you have to take a risk to get the sweet reward. So I am gonna stick around and try not to lose my head."

Giving a wink to Rosalyn and moving a few steps closer to her Chad slings his arm over her shoulder and leans down giving the top of her head before pulling her closer a little. Taking another sip of his coffee Chad smacks his lips together after. The coffee was a little bitter but it would wake him up for sure.

Letting out a long sigh Victoria lets her hand drop as Garret stands. She can't help the sigh following knowing what he was saying really was true. This would never get better, this would never end, and once her grandfather was dead, someone else would take over. It might even be her and that made her feel even sicker inside.

Just watching Garret walk away Victoria sits a little while longer looking out across the garden. No for them things would always be the same. There was no way out, and this, this was there life for now, and maybe always. Why it seemed to start bothering her more now Victoria wasn't sure but she had to get her head back into the game before she slipped. 

Boyfriend

Jason grins and gives Misty's hand a squeeze. "Yeah, I've kinda gotten used to it too. That just means we'll have to do suppers and evenings together anyway."

He chuckles. "Besides, I've also gotten used to food other than microwave dinners for my suppers. I'm not so sure my stomach could handle going back to that." 

Taking a sip of coffee, Clint's eyes widen as he swallows. "Wooee... that's some zippy brew there, man." He smacks his lips, still tasting before he elbows his sister. "Hey. This might actually keep me awake this morning. You should start making it like this all the time."

Rosalyn rolls her eyes. "Are you kidding me? You bounce off the walls the way it is. If you got a hold of stronger coffee every morning, Wendy would never get you settled down." 

"Eh..." Clint shrugs as he takes another cautious sip of coffee. "There are ways..." 

As Rosalyn's eyes widen, he gives her a grin and a win. "You know. Like putting me to work doing laundry and vacuuming."

"Right... uh-huh." Rosalyn shakes her head and goes back to her work, deciding it was best to let that subject drop.

Still grinning, Clint's eyes move back to Chad. "So... brave enough to stick around for a while, huh? Rosalyn must've told you Angel's pretty good with sewing people back together, just in case your head gets chopped off or something." 

"Clint!" The stove door slams shut as Rosalyn whirls around. 

He takes a step back, almost spilling his coffee while choking on a laugh. "I's just saying."

"Well don't-"

"Does your boyfriend speak for himself, or do you do all the talking?"

Rosalyn clamped her mouth shut and turned her back on her brother once more. If he wanted to give Chad a hard time, then so be it. She knew Chad could handle it. It was just annoying. Men were annoying. Period. Well... not Chad. 

Clint's mouth twitches as he looks at Chad, still wondering if he was actually going to stay here while Jim was on the warpath. 

"No. No, it's not going to end." Garret shakes his head numbly. "The insanity will go on forever, even when Medridge is gone. It's gone on too long and is too widespread now to be stopped. The Agency is too powerful." 

Sighing, he finally straightens and leans back in the bench, his hand finding Victoria's at his side where no one else would notice. "And yes, I do think we can pull off gaining the Banks baby. Carson's life is ruined and he's nowhere near Misty. She's alone and unprotected. By the time Medridge wants to move, their guards will be down again. There will be hell to pay, but there's too many of us for anybody to win." 

He shrugs. "At least he's not asking me to be involved in it. I've taken enough children. I'm not so sure I could stomach it again." A scoff surfaces. "Instead, tomorrow I get to go to France for a weekend of..." He stops, gritting his teeth. "Fundraising." He would be wined and dined, for sure at the mansion he had been to so many times. She was a young widow and quite willing to lend her resources when asked "nicely." 

Standing up, he crosses his arms and scans the garden. His stomach was in knots and his head had started to pound. "I best make my rounds now."

Strong

Misty gives a smile and nod as she puts her tea bag into the water and dips it a few times before caring her tea back to the table and sitting down. Taking a sip and letting the warm liquid slid down her throat she cocks her head to the side.

   "I bet you will be happy to get home to your own bed huh?"

Reaching out with her free hand and taking Jason's Misty gives a smile. She new sooner or later Jason would be off duty and than things would go back to normal. She wouldn't see him as much, and the night would seem lonely again. It was a sad thought but she new it was coming and it was only right.

   "I do have to admit though I will miss seeing you every night. I've kind of gotten use to it."

Having the kiss cut short Chad can't help the little crooked smile that spread across his lips. He couldn't be upset about the whole thing and found it a little humors. Watching Clint as he walks to the coffee pot Chad couldn't tell what he was thinking but at least he wasn't going to be rude or anything.

   "I am hoping the coffee is not to strong. I have to admit I am not use to making a whole pot but it was worth the effort."

Leaning against the counter and crossing his arms Chad pashently waits not sure if Clint was going to talk to him or not. Maybe Rosalyn's brother would be a little more apt to talk to him but he wasn't sure but maybe he could at least try to get alone with everyone to make it easier on Rosalyn.

Being dismissed from her grandfather shortly after Garret and heads out to the rose garden. It was a nice place to try and clear her head not to mention she had seen a glimpse of Garret heading that way too.  She wasn't sure how to feel about this whole thing and she needed someone to talk to about it what would understand.

   "Do you really think we can pull off taking that baby? Misty and Carson wont give it up willingly and will fight tooth and nail to get the child back."

Coming around to the other side of the bushes where Garret was Victoria sits down on the bench next to him and lets her shoulders relax for the time being with no one else being around. They were far enough away that they were safe at the moment.

Placing her hand on Garret's arm for just a second Victoria lets out a long sigh looking at him. Her eyes were so full of emotion and sorrow. She was as cold as ice when she needed to be but when alone her heart screamed at her for what she had done to people, and familys.

   "I couldn't imagine how it would feel to lose a child like that. I wish there was some way to stop it and not get our self killed ourselves. Is this ever going to end?"

Sick

Jason gives Misty a wry grin before shaking his head. "Nah... no tea for me. I'll sit up with you though. I won't be able to sleep for a while yet." 

Sitting down at the kitchen table, he leaves the living room to Alec. "Maybe on more night after this and Reese will take me off guard duty," he comments

Rosalyn smiles and gives Chad a squeeze. "I think for pulling up dead plants you'll do just fine. If you pull up something you're not supposed to, we can always blame the dogs, too." 

Going to her tiptoes, she's just about to kiss his lips when they're interrupted. 

"Hey, Rosalyn, do you..." Clint's voice trails off as he pauses in the doorway, empty coffee cup in hand, while one of his eyebrows quirks at the scene. "...have any more coffee made?"

Rosalyn sighs and rolls her eyes, withdrawing from Chad. "Yes, impatient one. There is coffee for you and everybody else. It just got done." 

Clint clears his throat and wanders to the pot to pour himself some. Giving Chad a sidelong glance, it would be hard to tell what he was thinking. Did he approve? Disapprove? His expression was too hard to read. 

Garret catches Victoria stirring out of the corner of his eye, and he hoped Medridge was not as observant. He dared not look in her direction, since he knew good and well why the atmosphere had just become tense. Swallowing his own emotions though, he's quick to wrap up the rest of the conversation before taking his leave. 

Heading with a brisk pace outside, he aims for the rose garden to appear on duty until he could disappear amongst the flowers for a few short moments. Easing down on a bench, he leans his arms on his knees and willed himself not to throw up. It was bad enough, realizing how awful a thing it was to steal infants and raise them in a place like this. What was worse was seeing the abomination of it now while remembering the times he'd actually helped kidnap babies. It had happened. He had done it. More than once. And only now was he seeing the blood on his hands. And it made him sick. 

Not Sure

Still holding Rosalyn Chad just lets her lean into him. He didn't mind at all and just feeling her close and knowing he was sheltering her make her feel good. In a way it made him feel good as well, knowing he could help her feel safe.

   "If he doesn't accepts me than I will deal with it. As long as you still do and your mind wont change than how could I go wrong?"

Just looking down at Rosalyn Chad gives a smile and looks into her eyes. He didn't mind what they were doing as long as they were together. That was what he cared about the most. Just being with her and spending time doing some of the things she did in a normal day.

   "Not sure how good in a garden I can be but I sure can try my best if you are willing to give me a little direction. I think it might be fun to help you after all."

Wondering into the kitchen again Misty goes to the tea pot to start some tea. She would be going to sleep soon so some warm tea would be nice before that. Grabbing a cup and than turning to Jason Misty gives a smile before holding up a cup for him too. She didn't want to call it a night yet even though Alec had claimed the couch so this was the next best thing.

   "Want some tea too? I am gonna be up for a little bit still I think. Seems the little trooper wants to move around a bunch tonight."

Misty gives a smile to Jason as she lays a hand on her tummy. It was still early in her term but  the baby was a Bank's after all so it didn't surprise it was on the active side already. With this pregnancy she figured there would be lots of stuff that wasn't normal.

Sitting across the room on one of the couches Victora sat quietly listing. She hadn't been on many missions as of late but her grandfather had kept her sitting on many meeting that had to deal with the whole Carson issue. It had been a long hall and now hearing it was being dropped shocked her a little.

Hearing about the new plan with the baby Victoria couldn't help but sit up a little straighter. She was still silence because she new saying anything would give something away that made her heart soft but looking to Garret she new he would be able to see a slight bit of fear in her eyes. Taking a child from there mother it was part of what the agency did to train sosomeone but every time it happened it still hurt to think about it.  

Kept busy

As Chad puts his arms around her, Rosalyn just closes her eyes, leaning into him. Never had she felt something like this... so warm... so safe... so content. How could such a thing cause such a mess with her father? 

"I'm not so sure he'll come around," she mumbles into his chest. Bringing her gaze up to his, she forces a little smile though. "I really don't have all that much to do today until supper. Mom and Jade are taking care of lunch. I was gonna exercise a couple horses but I could probably sweet-talk Dylan into doing that for me. I need to work some in the garden though... pull up dead plants and stuff since most of it's done for the season. You could help me with that if you want."

Though sighing, Alec gives Misty a tired nod. He didn't know how to make it through this one... but maybe if she told him to hang on enough times, he'd be able to. "Yeah... okay." 

Leaving the bathroom, he aims for the living room to flop down on the couch. Giving Jason a weary wave, he slides down further into the cushions. "You wanna make out with your girlfriend, you're gonna have to find another spot tonight."

Jason gives him a wry grin and shakes his head. "We kept busy while you were gone."

A little grin creases Alec's lips as he lets his eyes fall shut. He'd undress and grab a blanket later after the others were settled in for the night too. It would be nice when he could move into the shed and not have to worry about sleeping in the living room any more. 

"You're letting it drop?" Garret cocked his head, wondering at Medridge's actions. They usually made sense, but this didn't.

"Only for the time being." Medridge sat in his desk chair, resting both hands atop his cane. "I decided there was a better way to skin this cat." 

Garret remains near the door, his feet spread and his hands behind his back. He was in his usual gear, back on work and, for now, on guard duty at the estate for the next couple weeks until he'd be sent out again. Which was fine with him. Though feeling a bit cramped lately with his vacation time, at least he'd had Victoria. "I'm not sure I understand." 

"There was one thing I had not factored in when all this started. But as time progressed and the target was so willing to comply, I realized there was a much greater prize involved than simply watching the reactions to lives being disrupted." 

Now Garret was beginning to see. "The child." 

"Exactly. When the time is right, the child will be ours."

"Quite the bloodline. He or she would surely make a fine agent."

"Indeed." 

Help with

As Jim comes into the kitchen Chad just stands off a little bit. He didn't want to get into the middle of them but he wasn't going to leave either even if Jim was completely ignoring him. Maybe that was a better option than getting into a fight, at least for now.

Continuing to just lean against the counter Chad sips his coffee just watching Jim as he leaves and than looking back to Rosalyn. He could see the sad look in her eyes and the anger that was written over her face. It pained his heart that she hurt and he wished he could do more.

   "Don't let it bother you to much babe, He'll come around."

Bringing the knife over to Rosalyn Chad sets it down on the counter before bringing her arms around her and holding her close to himself. He felt more bad for her than he did himself...it was not something he liked seeing. To know that woman he had grown to love was now hurting.

   "How about after breakfast we go and do something nice to take your mind off things? Heck if you have other chores to do else where I will even help with those."

Following Alec inside and handing him the tweezers Misty just lets him pull the sliver out himself. Letting him finish she goes to the sink and turns on some water taking some bandages out as well to dress the wound.

   "Alec you are not dumb, you just happen to be accident prone. I guess when your mind is else where it could be part of the problem."

Running Alec's hand under the water to remove most of the blood and grim Misty than pats it off with a towel. Dressing it nicely she gives him a smile before giving his arm a pat.

   "Things will get better Alec...just hang in there for me...ok?"

Tense

Reminded of Mackenzie and the little one on the way, Alec could feel a little bit of his wall being chipped away. He did love his niece to death and he was looking forward to being an uncle again too... even if he didn't admit it to too many people. It wasn't much right now but... maybe it was just one more thing he could hang on to that would keep him from ever driving off that cliff. 

Following Misty to the house, he gives Jason a simple nod hello before going to the bathroom where there was more direct light. Squinting at his finger, he picks at the splinter even though it was pointless. "I've got the best of luck, ya know?" He rolls his eyes. "Or maybe it's just my stupidity."

Not knowing what was going on, Jason just stands out of the way and goes to sit in the living room. 


Rosalyn grins. Maybe she'd just take Chad up on the offer and go "sew some buttons" today. In the meantime though, there was too much work to be done. 

Getting breakfast started and letting Chad help with the dishes, she was glad for his company. Even if things were tense and stressful in her family because he was there, she still felt happy he'd come and every moment with him she loved even more than the last. In a strange way, it felt as if she'd known him for years, and... she was quite comfortable having him around. 

A few people started to filter in, but most remain in the dining room to sip coffee or be brought a cinnamon roll. It wasn't long though before the coffee had run out and was waiting to be refilled as it sat in the kitchen. 

Entering with his empty cup, Jim was not surprised to find Chad there with Rosalyn. She hadn't come home last night and he knew it, only adding to his ire. Going straight to the coffee pot, he gives Rosalyn a sidelong glance but ignores Chad completely. "Your mother and I were worried about you last night." 

Rosalyn can feel her cheeks flush a she takes another pan of rolls from the oven. "I didn't want to wake you. It was late so I sacked out here on the couch." 

"You could have called."

"I could have."

Jim's eyes were tired and upset as he studies his only daughter. His baby. "I'd appreciate it if that happens again, that you would at least call. I wouldn't want any... assumptions to be made." 

Rosalyn swallows hard as she grits her teeth, trying not to lose her temper. Her father knew her better than that. He knew she wouldn't be inappropriate with a man. He knew she was smarter than that. He knew she could be trusted. Yet right now, she felt like a little child being given a slap on the hand for being naughty, when all she'd done was stay out late and sleep on the couch. "Got it. Call. Want a roll?" 

"Thanks, no. I think coffee is all my stomach can handle this morning." Still without even acknowledging Chad, Jim leaves the kitchen to go sit with some of the others. 

Letting out a long breath, Rosalyn leans on the counter and stares down at the hot cinnamon rolls. "Would you please hand me a knife?" she asks quietly.

Miss you

Misty's heart still goes out to Alec as he continues to talk. She really did feel bad for him and wish there was more she could do. Alec was like a brother, like family, to see him hurt, hurt her too.

   "I know it does seem hopeless but my life wouldn't be better without you and..."

Stepping a few more feet closer Misty takes Alec's hand that was not hurt and hold it for a second giving a smile. Moving his hand again Misty takes it and places it on her stomach that was slowly becoming bigger.

   "Your neice or nephew would sure miss knowing you too. Not to mention the little girl that will be coming to visit this week end."

Giving a smile to Alec Misty nods to his hand before turning and walking twords the door having Alec follow.

   "Come on let's her that fixed up for you."

Giving a laugh Dalton gives a wince. He was way to happy though and couldn't hold it back even if it hurt.

   "Well I guess the next step would be me getting healthy and out of here. Than..."

Dalton once again can't help the smile that spread across his face. His own stomach flipped just thinking about the whole thing. Dani really was going to be his wife.

   "Than we have a wedding to plan."

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Without Alec Banks

Alec gives a quiet little half-laugh as he keeps his eyes on his task. "Ya know... at one point, having someone worry about me was annoying. I guess now though... it's kinda nice to know someone cares enough to worry."

He really was grateful that Misty had taken him in and accepted him, being his friend and sister. No one else had gone to such lengths and it had helped him get his footing again. He only wished now that there was one other person in particular who would care about him... but she didn't anymore.

Pain shooting through his finger causes him to flinch, dropping his sandpaper. A curse slips out under his breath as he looks at his finger where the wooden sliver had dug in deeply under his skin. Great.

Sighing he rolls his eyes. "Perfect way to end the day. Why not?"

Glancing to Misty, he just studies her quietly for several moments, his shoulders bent in defeat. "I understand my life isn't over," he finally responds to her previous statement. "I'm just finding it hard to believe it's worth living anymore. I sure haven't found anything lately to convince me it is. Besides, I have a feeling the world would be a better place without Alec Banks to screw it up all the time."

He reaches up and turns off the light, aiming for the little door and abruptly ending that conversation. "You got a pair of tweezers in the house? I gotta get this stupid splinter out of my finger."

Taking Dalton's hand in hers, Dani lifts it to her lips to give it a kiss, her eyes and smile still beaming. "And you mean the world to me, Dalton." 

After a moment or two of silence, another giggle escapes. "I have no idea what to say or do next." 

Happy

Watching as Dani expends her hand and admires the ring Dalton was happy she liked it. He's spend so much time and taken in consideration Dani's personality and hope he's picked one she liked. Know he had just made him feel that much better.

   "I'm happy you like it, I love you more than anything Dani."

Dalton was happy and he was excited. Thinking about Dani being his wife made him so excited it was hard to contain his own self. He was looking forward to what was to come, they would be facing it together!

Stepping in a little more to the shed Misty leans against the table where Alec was working listing to him talk. The look in his eye really cut her deep. She new how much he loved Ryan and how much it must really hurt.

   "I'm sorry Alec that it didn't work out how you wanted it too. You gotta keep going thought you know? Life might seem like its over but really its just starting."

Misty new that what she was saying might not mean much and was a little trite, but she wanted Alec to know it would be ok. This was not the end, and not even close. She new for him it hurt, but to move on and continue was that mattered.

   "I was worried when I saw you left your phone home. I care about you, and thats why I worry. But you dont need to check in with me every time you are leaving. I'd probley worry anyways if you did."

That's that

Having been paying little attention to anything else, Misty's entrance into the shed brings Alec's gaze snapping up. Pausing his work on the window for just a moment, his dark eyes meet hers. Turning his concentration back to his task, he shrugs. "Figure if I'm gonna sleep in here I better make it halfway decent."

Continuing to sand, he knew that Misty was worried about him. He knew she probably wondered where he had been and what was wrong. He just didn't know how to explain it all. "Sorry I didn't leave you a note." Was it the first time he'd apologized for something like that? He couldn't remember. At one time, he would have figured that wherever he went, whenever he wanted was his own business and who cared what anybody else thought. But being here with Misty... he'd grown accustomed to the habit of them both showing each other respect by making sure one was aware of the other's plans, if just for the sake of avoiding worry. And now that he'd broken that habit... he did feel badly. 

Keeping his hands busy, he shrugs again. "And... you were right, by the way... I shoulda moved on past the whole Ryan thing before I made things worse." 

He leans down and squints at a rough spot in the wood, picking at some rotten wood with his fingernail. That would have to be replaced before the whole frame rotted. "Got told to my face today to leave her alone. I just wanted to talk to her, ya know? Try to figure out what was really true - if she actually loved me or really did never wanted to see me again. Guess it was the latter."

Had he really been that stupid? Yeah... he had. He starts sanding again, not even knowing why he was telling Misty all that. Talking about it changed nothing. "So that's that. I was just out riding around tonight, trying to clear my head. I hope I didn't worry you too much." 

His words were quite matter-of-fact... but the truth was that his heart had never hurt more, and his ride had done nothing to clear his head at all.

Dani didn't mind another kiss. Truth be known, she was really looking forward to when Dalton could get out of here and they could spend some quality cuddle time together. It had only been a few days, but she already missed it.

Pulled into a hug she giggles and shakes her head. "I wondered if you were ever gonna ask... but there's nothing to be sorry for, Silly." 

Drawing back a little, she sits in the chair again, but leaves her elbows resting on the bed as she holds her hand out to admire the ring. "It's simply beautiful... I love it so much... and I love you so much too...." Her eyes sparkled as she looked back to her... fiance. And that thought makes her smile even more. "Thank you."

Different

Hearing Alec's bike but nothing else that followed Misty turns and looks at Jason as he looks out the back door. Worry was on her face and it was just something she couldn't help even if told not to worry. Alec was important to her no matter what he was part of her family and always would be. 

Standing and going to the door Misty looks out with Jason. Looking back out to the shed again and letting out a sigh. Maybe Alec wanted to be left alone but Misty couldn't help the pull that wanted her to go out there and check on him anyways. Laying a hand on Jason's arm she gives a wary smile.

   "I'll be right back."

Opening the door and heading out back Misty stops at the shed and gives a knock on the door before pushing it open slightly. Seeing Alec at work she gives a little smile before stepping inside a little bit and looking around. It was really starting to clean up nicely in here, much better than what Misty really thought it would.

   "Wow, it looks so different in here. You're doing a great job Alec."

Hearing Dani's answer to his question Dalton can't help the large smile that spread across his face. He didn't care if the movement was painful it was well worth it and he wasn't going to let it pass him up. Moving his hand from Dani's Dalton takes the run from the box and gently takes her hand placing the ring on her fingers. It fit perfect and it warmed him on the inside as a tear of happiness ran down his cheek. He's never be able to explain how he felt, but it was amazing.

   "Dani, you have made me so happy from the start...thank you so much!"

Reaching up he pulls her down placing a kiss on her lips just letting how he felt flow through that and that alone. Letting time stand still he wasn't going to let her go so easy as his heart continued to race. Finally breaking away though He smiles before pulling her into a hug.

   "You're an amazing woman. Sorry it took so long for me to ask."

Late

Having Dalton suddenly be so romantic, Dani gives him a shy sort of smile, not sure where all his words were coming from. It did make her feel good though... to be loved... accepted... needed. What she didn't understand was why Dalton seemed rather nervous. Was something wrong? Did he know something from the doctors that she didn't? 

As the little box is revealed, her heart skips a beat. No... surely not... he... it....

Her eyes are wide and she blinks, her mouth opening slightly in shock. So completely taken aback, she hardly hears Dalton's actual proposal, so it takes several moments for her to process that he had just asked her to marry him. 

Prying her gaze from the ring to Dalton's eyes, Dani's own start to glisten with tears. She'd thought about marriage... a few times... she'd envisioned what it might be like to spend the rest of her life with Dalton... and she had wondered if maybe someday he would ask. But she had not expected it now, let alone this moment while he was in the hospital.

"Oh, Dalton..." Her voice quivers and a giggle escapes as her emotions bubble over. Unable to find her voice again, she nods vigorously. Standing to lean carefully over the bed, she places a long, passionate kiss on Dalton's lips before burying her face into his neck. "Yes... yes, I will marry you." 

Pulling back, she doesn't notice the tear that trickled down her face as she turned again to look at the ring. "It's just beautiful... oh, Dalton...." Another laugh comes out and her cheeks flush red. "You sure do know how to surprise a girl, you know that?" 


Leaning back against the kitchen counter, Jason thinks for a moment, then shakes his head. "Where would we look? If Alec wants to disappear... unfortunately, he's good enough he can. And since his bike's gone, I doubt foul play."

Jason didn't like seeing Misty worried... though deep down he was a bit concerned himself. Last he knew, Ryan had told Alec to back off a couple days ago and since then, Alec had seemed unsettled and depressed. Misty seemed to think he wouldn't do anything too stupid... but was it the truth? Jason honestly didn't know. 

"Come on... lets just hold down the couch for a while, okay?" He moves to sling an arm over Misty's shoulders to guide her to the living room. "I'm sure he's fine and will be back any minute."

Minutes turned into hours and by the time the movie on television was over, it was quite late and there had still been no sign of Alec. Jason was going to spend a couple more nights before giving up the security watch, so he was still there, cuddled with Misty on the couch as the movie credits rolled. 

Then his ears pick up the sound of an engine, and a light shines in the widow from the street. "Sounds like Alec's bike."

It was. Alec pulls into the driveway and cuts the engine, sitting for a moment before removing his helmet. Looking at the front window, he saw a few lights on and the shine from the television. Jason's truck was here too. And Alec really didn't want to deal with anybody right now. 

Parking his bike an dismounting, instead of going inside, Alec walks around the side of the house and out back to the shed. It was almost done... he'd be able to move out here soon... Getting inside he stands and looks around, wondering if he'd ever be in a better place than this. Or was fighting just his lot in life? Always chasing but never achieving. Always running but never reaching his destination. 

Tossing his jacket aside, he moves to the small window and grabs a piece of sandpaper to continue work around the frame where he'd left off yesterday. 

Inside the house, by now, Jason was looking out the back door. A light had gone on in the shed, but Alec had not made his presence known. Glancing down at Misty, he searches her eyes. He'd go see what was going on himself, but he had a feeling Alec wouldn't welcome him. If there was anybody Alec would talk to, it would be Misty.

Perfect

Once Dani was back in the room Dalton couldn't help but smile at her. She always looked good to him but now she looked even better. Having her sit down next to him again and hearing about the cookie Dalton sits up a little straighter and gives a smile. Peanut butter were his favorite and she new that for sure.

   "Mmm...see thats one of the many reasons I love you. You're willing to break the rules a little bit."

Just looking over Dani's face Dalton's couldn't help but let his smile show. Reaching out and taking her hand in his own. Dalton rubs his finger over her knuckles his heart starts beating in his chest even faster and he could feel his nerves starting to work themselves up.

   "You are an amazing woman Dani and I love you so very much. Since I met you, you gave me so much and made me feel so whole again."

Looking down at Dani's finger Dalton moves his other hand around to her. In his hand was a small red velvet box. Slowly using his thumb to pop the box open he held it out to Dani a smile was spread across his face as his hands shook a little bit. Inside was a silver ring with a diamond set into it. and on the band on each side were two more diamonds. Simple for Dani's hand but it would still simmer and look so pretty on her.

   "Dani I was waiting for the perfect moment to do this, but the perfect moment never came. Than I almost died without you even knowing how much I loved you and wanted to spend my life with you. So now...the perfect time is now. Dani...will you marry me?"

   "Yeah I am worried about him. Not worried he has turned again or anything but just worried he might follow in Carson's food steps when I wouldn't take him back."

Misty lets out a long sigh talking to Jason and twirling Alec's phone in her hand. Since she had gotten home and saw his phone laying on the table Misty couldn't help but worry and now a few hours had gone by and still no word from him. It was strange and unusual. With how depressed Alec was it really did worry her.

   "I mean, I dont think he is that dumb to hurt himself but I guess just the look in his eye he had last night it just makes me worry. Maybe if he doesn't come back soon we should look for him?"

Cliff

Carson grins and nods, standing up. "Sure. I'd be happy to." And he knew he better go now and make it a quick trip before Dani got back. Otherwise she'd have a fit he was there and then it really would be a bad time for a proposal... 

...Accomplishing the task wasn't hard, and as planned, Carson was back and had left before Dani returned a couple hours later...

"Hey, handsome." Dani steps into the room once again, this time looking more refreshed after having taken a long hot shower and a nap as well. She still hated seeing Dalton like this and was still worried, but at least she could function for a while again. 

Wandering over to the now-familiar chair, she sits beside the bed and puts a finger to her lips. "Shh....  I brought a peanut butter cookie for you."


It was getting late. But Alec didn't care. Still on his bike, he hadn't been home since that morning. He'd left his phone back at the house and he hadn't left Misty a note like he usually did if he wasn't going to be there when she got home from work. Which meant right about now she'd notice he was gone, but wouldn't be able to get a hold of him. He cared and didn't want her to worry... but... he just wasn't ready to go home yet. 

The sun was to his back as he rode along the highway, miles out of town. He didn't know where he was going. Where he wanted to go. If he ever even wanted to go back. Who needed him? Who cared? 

Finding a back road, he takes that out to a secluded spot he'd learned about from Eli. The path led up to the edge of a cliff that looked down over the city. One could see for miles up here, as if the horizon went on forever. In the evening light, an orange glow was spread across the scene. It was a scene that he would normally enjoy. A scene that he'd like to share with someone else. 

Riding up to the edge of the cliff and letting the engine idle, Alec's eyes glance down the sheer dropoff where trees and rocks lined the earth below. If he wanted to, death would be on impact. 

A chill runs down his spine and he backs up a couple feet. His stomach gives an odd churn and he forces himself to turn his bike around. He'd had suicidal thoughts in his life more than anybody knew. He never spoke of it. He didn't want to. It scared him to think about it. And now he was at that place once more... and it was dark... and frightening. 

Swallowing hard, he revs his bike engine and heads away from the cliff. Where he'd go next, he wasn't sure. When and if he'd go home, he wasn't sure either. 

Can You

Looking to Carson as he talked Dalton couldn't help the pang to his heart he felt. It was silly of him to think that Dani would want the perfect time. And that she was with him still but not really think he was good enough. For a moment Dalton was ashamed of himself.

   "I...I guess your right."

No No...he didn't think Dani was shallow at all and he hated thinking that because of his own thoughts thats what it mean.  He didn't want to give that impression because he new better than anyone Dani was not like that at all.

   "Carson can you do me a favor? I think its time I did ask Dani and not wait anymore. Can you grab my keys and go to my house. Look in the desk draw that my computer is on and take out the little box for me and bring it back? I'd like to surprise Dani when she gets back."

Giving Tal a little smirk and a nod of hear head Ryan agreed to dressing up a little more this time out. She wasn't big on it but it was once and a while, and she didn't mind doing it for Tal. Once he was gone Ryan smiles to herself once again before heading back to her room. This time she was getting ready for tonight. If she was going to look a little extra special for Tal, and put on a dress it was going to take her that much longer to get ready since she was not use to it.

Shallow

Tal chuckles and lifts his palm to rest it against Ryan's cheek. "I'll never tire of that or you either." 

Grinning, he finally lets her go and walks - somewhat gingerly after his fall - to the door. "See you at seven then, and... you might wanna dress up just a little." He winks. "I think you deserve going somewhere nicer than Tou Han's."

Carson refrains from rolling his eyes, but he does give Dalton a little smirk. He understood, but he also knew his sister. "If Dani thought you weren't good enough, she woulda broken up with you long before this. Give her some credit for knowing what she wants and what she deserves."

He shakes his head. "If you're just waiting around for the perfect moment, it may not come, and she probably won't wait forever. If she really loves you like I think she does, she wouldn't care if you proposed in the middle of a traffic jam." He scoffs. "I proposed in the middle of an argument." The memory brought a wry grin to his lips. "If you think she'd say no because it wasn't a perfect moment... then you must think she's pretty shallow." 

Fear

   "I...I wanted it to be perfect and I just couldn't find that perfect time."

Shaking his head a little bit Dalton looks at his hands. He was so lucky to have someone like Dani's love and sometimes he couldn't help but feel like he wasn't good enough.  He new Dani would disagree and probley wack him over the head but he just couldn't help it.

   "I know its silly of me to think this but I just...I wish things were better for me, I feel Dani deserves so much more than what I can give it.  I wouldn't trade her for the world that I know I just...I guess in a way I am scared she'll say no if its not just right."

Looking back at Carson the look in his eyes told so much. He really did have a small fear that maybe Dani would say no even if he new it was a silly thought. He couldn't help but fear the rejection just a little bit anyways.

Ryan gives a little wave to her brother as he makes his way to the door. Not being able but laugh again at him as he goes. Her brother was a ham and she loved every moment of it. He was that extra bright spot in her day and knowing Tal and himself got along that well was even better. Tal had become part of the family and it was a nice feeling.

   "Seven o'clock sounds great to me. I shall be cleaned showered and ready."

Turning to Tal again and leaning up on her tip toes and giving him a kiss on the lips before pulling away and smiling. Her eyes give a twinkle as she just looks back at her own reflection in the depth of his eyes. How he looked at her...Ryan never tired of it at all.

   "Mmmm...I'll never tire of that or you."

Cold feet

Carson cocks his head, just watching Dalton for a moment. Did Dani even know how much this hulk loved her? 

"I kept wondering when you were gonna ask her," he admits. "Not that she'd tell me if she was engaged. She hates my guts right now. But I figured you were gonna pop the question for quite a while now." 

He gives Dalton a wry grin. "Don't tell me you got cold feet... Dani isn't all that scary is she?"

"Hey now..." Eli gives his sister a teasing glare. "Scarlet doesn't need any more reasons to laugh at me. I do well enough without falling off couches." 

Tal snickers. "You're getting better at dissing yourself, you know that?"

"Thank you." Eli gives a little bow. "But now, ladies and gentlemen, I'm running out of time for lunch. So I'm gonna go and I'll see you both..." He shrugs. "Whenever." 

"Yeah, yeah. See ya." Tal waves him out the door, quiet until he and Ryan are left alone once more. Looking down at her, he smiles, grateful for the bit of support she was giving him, while at the same time enjoying her touch as much as he always did. "So... shall we say... seven o'clock tonight?" 

Straddling his parked motorcycle, Alec looks out across the deserted beach on the lake. There was a chilly breeze - the most likely reason that no one else was here today. He was though... but his mind was very far away. It was filled with images of the past... images of him and Ryan enjoying each other's company as they spent hours just walking on the beach or sitting in the sand. Holding hands. Kissing. Driving in her car with no destination. Making out on the couch. Teasing. Laughing.

And now... it was all gone.

He'd known it before. He'd known that he'd messed up. He'd had no hope of gaining back Ryan's trust, let alone her heart. But over the last couple weeks, somehow, some hope had been reborn. And after today, it was as if he had just lost Ryan all over again. Only this time... this time his eyes were not blinded by pride. This time he could see that his mere presence put Ryan on edge. Upset her. Made her unhappy. Eli had been right. It was Tal she belonged with. Not him. Alec didn't deserve her in any way shape or form. He'd known it already but... today just seemed to drive home that fact. He was a worthless no-good, and he knew that if he wanted Ryan to be happy, then she should be with Tal instead.

Looking down at his hand, he unfolds a small note. On it was his own handwriting, and it simply said, "Ryan." And slowly, slowly, he tears the note into tiny pieces, clenching them tightly in his fist.

His eyes rise to the lake once more as the sun spread its rays across the rippling water. Then reaching out his hand, he opens his palm. The breeze swirls around him, picking up the scraps of paper and carrying them towards the sky, never to be seen again. Alec kisses his fingers and points them to the wind. "Goodbye, Ryan," he whispers.

Would he be able to move on? He had his doubts. But he wouldn't get in Ryan's way any longer. What they had shared... was no more...

Sad

Standing up after Tal stands up Ryan could tell he was in a little bit of pain and she hadn't even though about everything that was still healing on him till now. Laying a light hand on his back and giving him a smile Ryan trys to give him a little support without really saying anything to embarrass him.

   "I think maybe dropping in on Eli and Scarlet is a good idea. I mean...after all I think they might be worse than us."

Giving a laugh Ryan didn't mind teasing Eli as much as he teased her. She new Scarlet was a good woman, and Eli had his head on right so there was nothing to worry about but a little bit of innocent teasing never hurt anyone.

   "Than maybe he can fall off the couch and have Scarlet laugh at him. Sounds good to me."

Hearing that Carson wasn't doing to well Dalton gave a little frown. He was hoping Carson was doing a little bit better but it made sense he wasn't. Giving a simplistic look to Carson Dalton looks down at the bed at his next comment playing with the blanket for a second. 

   "Yeah, I was a little worried there too. Though I might kick the bucket before I could even ask her."

Looking at Carson Dalton's face was slightly sad at the thought. He'd been waiting to ask Dani to marry him for the right time and if he had not been able to before that time came...it was just a sad thought to him. 

Not so good

Actually, the fall from the couch had jarred just about every recently-healed injury, leaving Tal in quite a bit of pain. He wouldn't let on though... not and spoil that smile on Ryan's face he'd missed seeing lately. 

Grinning from ear to ear, he laughs too as his face flushes. "Yeah... yeah, I'm okay." Seeing Eli approach, he gives him a sheepish look and lifts a hand. "Wipe that stupid smirk off your face and help me up." 

Swallowing a laugh, Eli reaches down and pulls Tal up, knowing that the fall must have hurt if he was asking for help. "That'll teach you to be making out with my sister." 

Tal quirks an eyebrow and looks down at Ryan. "Naw... it just means we should start out on the floor instead."

Eli's eyes widen and he threatens to whack Tal over the head. 

Tal raises his hands and backs up a step while laughing. "I was just kidding, big brother, just kidding." 

"Uh-huh." 

"Say what are you doing here anyway?" 

"When I decided to get some lunch, I realized I'd forgotten this." Eli holds up his wallet. "So I had to come back here and get it. Glad I did too..." He gives his sister a dry sort of glance, but ends it with a wink. He trusted her and Tal both, probably more than he trusted himself, but he still liked to give them a bad time. "Me and my own babe can't decide what to do tonight - do I have to come back here and babysit?" 

Tal smirks. "I happen to be taking your baby sister out to dinner tonight, so you and Scarlet are welcome to the couch." 

Eli grins. "Maybe it'll be her couch tonight."

Tal glances to Ryan again. "I think we should just 'happen' to drop by there at the most opportune time tonight, what do you think?"


Relief sweeps through Carson as Dalton welcomes him rather than throwing him out. At least now he had two people that would talk to him. That was a start, right? 

Easing down in the extra chair, he shrugs at Dalton's question. "I'm... not so good," he admits. "I thought I'd been to hell and back before... but that wasn't even as bad as this." He glances down, his fingers fiddling in his lap. "I'm surviving though. Mostly trying to find people who will forgive me for the lies and be my friend again. I'm finding that more difficult than I thought it would be too." 

He couldn't help the depressive tone of his voice - he was depressed and he knew it. He didn't want to live without Misty... but she wasn't giving him any choice. He didn't want to forget about all his friendships... but the relationships seemed to have vanished. 

Looking back up again, he forces a small smile. "I came to see you though. Thought for a while there I mighta lost my future brother-in-law."

Laughing

Hearing Carson's voice Dalton looks to the door a little surprised to see him there but not surprised to hear he hadn't come sooner because of Dani. But he was happy to see Carson there. Though he had done some bad things Dalton still liked Carson. They had always been upfront and honest with each other even if he didn't understand the reason totally for his chooses.

   "Hey Carson, Its good to see you man. How ya holding up yourself?"

Shifting a little Dalton trys to get comfortable and see Carson a little better. He new he's told Dani to go home because she needed to sleep too but he was slightly lonely now. So having someone there with him was nice.

Ryan can't help but laugh as Eli's presence is known. It always made her laugh with how much of a drama queen he was when she new darn well it didn't bother him as much as he played it up.

   "I saw we keep going too. I've walked in on him a few times making out with Scarlet...so...ya."

Leaning up and giving Tal another kiss before pulling away Ryan cocks her head a little looking up at him. She was so happy he was willing to give her another chance. She wasn't ready to lose this, to lose this feeling, and the peace she felt. This to her felt right and she wanted to really know where it was going.

Everything happened so fast all Ryan could do as Tal fell was shreek a little that was followed with a a laughter that rang out so loud she couldn't help it as she leaned over the edge of the couch trying to gasp for air and as if he was ok. 

   "Oh my gosh...Tal...Tal...can you hear me down there."

Rolling backwards on the couch again and bring her legs up a little it as she continues laughing Eli's comment just sends her into another fit of laughter. Tears started to roll from her eyes before finally looking over the edge again she looks back to the doorway at Eli.

   "No...No..He's still here just...but I bet now he wasn't."

Shaking her head continuing to look down at him Ryan couldn't whip the smile off her face. Things just seemed good right now to do something as silly as that. Cocking her head to one side her eyes twinkled with love, laughter, and thankfulness Tal was here.

   "Now that I am done laughing...are you ok?"

Graceful?

Dani knew Dalton was trying to take care of her too, even though he was the one in the hospital bed. Wincing as he coughs, she opts to just do what he asks, even though she wanted to stay. She didn't want him worrying about her and feeling worse. "Alright... I'm going." 

Giving his hand a final squeeze she finally leaves. A shower would feel nice... and maybe just a short nap would be alright.

...It wasn't too much later when there's a new tap on the hospital door. Carson had been sitting, waiting and watching until Dani had left. He'd had a hunch she'd wind up going home at some point, and he'd just as soon avoid another confrontation. Or maybe he just didn't want to see her angry with him again.

"Dalton?" He eases into the room, not wanting to aggravate the big man. As far as he knew, Dalton could be just as offish as everybody else. He could despise Carson just like the others at the Elite did. Regardless, Carson felt the need to at least stop by once. Dalton had been one of his friends... and even though he'd messed up, he had a little bit of hope left that somebody would forgive him. 

"I, um... just wanted to see how you were." He wanders a little closer to the bed. "Heard about what happened and all. Stopped by a few days ago, but... well, Dani didn't want me around." 

It wasn't often that Tal let his passion run whatever direction it wanted, but today he wasn't paying too much attention to what his norm was. He and Ryan had come too close to losing each other, and he let his affections speak for themselves - he didn't want anybody but her. 

Murmuring with pleasure, he loved feeling Ryan's own passion returned to him. It was warm. A confirmation that she really did want him. Shifting his weight a little, he sends kisses down her neck then up again, returning to her lips. He really didn't care what time it was or how long they spent in each other's arms. He'd simply never tire of Ryan's affection, no matter how many minutes ticked by. Her fingers running through his hair send tingles down his spine and he responds with a deeper kiss, letting her know he liked it. 

"What the... aw man!" Eli cringes and turns around to walk into the kitchen instead. "I did not need to see that!" Apparently his entrance had gone unheard by the two lovebirds on the couch, and seeing them making out wasn't exactly on his list of things to do.

Startled by the sudden intrusion, Tal recoils, his eyes wide. But looking down at Ryan, he grins before starting to laugh. He'd love to stay here all afternoon and just cuddle for as long as they wanted, but it would seem as though today was not the day and... Eli's reaction was pretty funny. "I say we just keep going," he whispers, still grinning. Returning for another short but rather passionate kiss, his eyes twinkle. "Maybe if we ignore him, he'll go away."

"I heard that!" 

Tal laughs again, before pushing himself up by his arms to release Ryan. Yes, he'd like to stay here the rest of the day... but better sense told him that maybe Eli's entrance was a good thing. Shifting to prepare to get up, Tal's hand slips off the edge of the couch. Before he knew what was happening, he was lying on the floor, staring up at the ceiling. Blinking, he turns to give Ryan a cautious look. "Um..." He chokes on a laugh. "Was that as graceful as it felt?" 

Hearing the loud bang, Eli pokes his head out of  the kitchen, muttering under his breath. "What in tarnation are they..." From his angle, Tal had disappeared completely. "Ryan, you scared him away!" 

Emotions

About to say something in return Ryan is silenced by Tal's kiss. Being pushed back onto the couch Ryan wraps her arms around Tal and lets a small giggle out before returning her lips to his. Bringing her on hand to the back of his head she runs her fingers through his hair as his other is on his back. Wrapping her legs around him Ryan lets her feels flow back to him as a soft murmer is formed in her throat. Just letting how to felt speak through her actions. 

Moving her lips from Tal's for a second Ryan kiss his cheek before moving down to his jawline and than his neck placing a few more kissed there and than making her way back up to his lips one more letting that kiss linger longer.

Smiling at Dani Dalton gives her the best smile he can. Giving a laugh at her comment it send him into a coughing attack but once it is calmed he looks at her and smiles shaking his head.

   "I don't think I will be running off anywhere anytime soon. Now on now, and hurry back."

Giving a reasure smile he wanted Dani to know he would be ok. He would be ok and if she wanted to go for a little bit everything would be alright. Even thought he was hurt her health was still important too.

Catch uP

Tal just holds Ryan close, keeping her on his lap. He was relieved she forgave him... he wouldn't have known what to do otherwise. He felt terrible for having lost his temper. It wasn't something he often did, and it didn't feel good. 

Realizing Ryan was crying, he tilts her head back to catch her tears with his thumb. "Hey... quit that or I'll start crying too," he teases softly. "I've missed you too... and I think we've got at least an evening's worth to catch up on..." 

Grinning, he gently pushes Ryan to her back on the couch, moving to rest over her, holding his weight on his elbows. His foot gives her leg a teasing nudge before he lowers his lips to hers. Kissing her long and deep, he lets it speak for his heart... for words wouldn't do justice anyway. 

Dani giggles and shakes her head. "I would imagine you don't feel so great. But you always look great... just so you know." 

Sighing, she finally straightens, lifting her head. "I guess I won't argue with you... but I'm coming back." 

Standing up, she gives Dalton's hand a squeeze before bending down to give his lips a little kiss. "Don't go anywhere, okay?" 

Yes...Yes!

Standing there and listening to Tal Ryan finally moves to the side to let him in. Continuing to listen to him hear heart beat so fast in her chest. Not sure at first what he was saying to trying to understand him it was hard. Hearing him say sorry though Ryan couldn't help the look of being surprise that crossed her face. She'd never had someone say sorry and mean it so soon before. It was something new...and...it made her feel warm.

   "Oh Tal...of course I forgive you. I love you to much not too and...I...I am very sorry too."

Not being able to help it Ryan steps forward and wraps her arms around Tal. Just holding him for a long moment new tears rolls down her cheek and this time they were tears of joy. She was happy Tal had changed his mind and was willing to work on things. She wanted to work, and wanted to try and mend this. Tal meant everything to her and for that she was sure.

   "Yes...Yes I still want to go to dinner with you tonight. I've missed you the last few days."

Feeling Dani's skin on his own it was warm, soft, it was reassuring that there was someone in his life who cared. It was in a way a nice thing to be reassured but still seeing how worried and tired she looking she was it made him sad at the same time. She shouldn't be here day and night waiting on him. 

   "Thank you Dani for being here with me. It means the world that you care so much. But you need to....to take care of yourself too so I don't worry."

Moving his thumb a little bit he lets it run against her cheek  feeling her skin under his finger it was so soft and it warmed him more to know this gift, this wonderful gift was his and only his. It almost made him want to cry to know she could of lost him before she ever new how much she meant to him.

   "Go home my love and get some sleep, grab something to eat and than come back hummm? It would make me feel a whole lot better if you did. Not to mention I am going to see about getting cleaned up myself...I feel...not go great."