Forever

"Mm, thanks." Eric was grateful Chad was there, and didn't resist the help. He shakes his head at Chad's question though. "No, I-"

He stops mid-sentence as Stacy approaches, and keeps himself from rolling his eyes. Not because she cared, but because he didn't particularly like much attention when it came to things like this. "Yeah, I'm alright." He pauses, letting half his weight lean on Chad. "Static just decided he'd rather go to the barn than stick around and listen to an argument. So now..." 

He starts forward again, gritting his teeth as his leg protests more than he thought it would. "Since nothing's broken and I ain't bleeding to death, I'm going to the barn to retrieve that ornery brute, and I'm gonna get back in the saddle."


Air. Room to breathe. That's all Rosalyn wanted. Heading at a fast pace back behind the barns and out to the back pasture, she keeps going. Her vision blurred through her tears but she didn't stop. She just wanted to get away. To get away from all the tension. 

Finding herself in the small orchard, she easily finds the tree that had become "hers and Chad's." Sliding down to the ground as she cries, she leans back against the rough bark, covering her face with her hands. How could such a peaceful night be so quickly torn away as she was yanked into another horrible scene? Why couldn't she have just remained in bliss a little while longer? What was happening? Whose fault was it really? 

She wasn't sure how long she remained under the tree, but she didn't want to move. It felt like every muscle in her body hurt and her eyes burned so badly that her head pounded. With her tears finally subsiding, she just closes her eyes and stays seated in the long grass, feeling the morning sun pouring down on her. So many questions ran through her mind. So many concerns. She didn't know what was right anymore. She didn't know what to do. 

Though missing breakfast entirely, she didn't care. She was supposed to have helped in the kitchen, but she lets it slide. She wasn't going to reappear in this shape anyway. She wasn't sure if she wanted to reappear at all. She just wanted to stay out here forever.


Listening quietly, Justin studies Hope's face as she spoke, taking note to her body language and eyes. Sliding one foot up on the chair, he wraps his arms around his knee and takes a moment to think. "Well, I'll try to figure out what's going on with him, but from what you just told me, it sounds like a classic case of someone caring enough that they don't want to hurt somebody else, so they push them away." He pauses, just letting his eyes roam hers. 

"Love isn't easily hidden, and Scott's a smart man." It was so obvious to Justin that Hope still loved Scott deeply. Whether her suggestion of taking Scott to the park was just a friendly gesture or not, Justin could only guess that Scott knew good and well Hope loved him. "And knowing him, he's already thought of the big picture. A picture of you and him. Together for the long haul. And he sees himself having violent nightmares almost every night. He sees himself barely able to keep his eating disorder under control. Constantly battling depression. Being angry and not knowing why. And when a man envisions that next to a woman he cares about, well..." Justin gives her a wry grin. "Maybe it's a guy thing, but we'd rather sacrifice our own happiness than put a woman through all that with us - regardless of whether or not the woman is willing."

Sighing, he nods slowly. "And... all those things, added together with his fears as well, probably make him feel pretty weak. And most guys I know don't particularly like it when a woman is stronger than they are."

He pauses again, thinking through the whole situation. "Unfortunately, you're Scott's best friend next to Dalton, and he needs all the support he can get. For a guy like him, retreating like this can get him in trouble again, and none of us want him to go back down the path to Brookshire. That said, I see he's not at work today so I might just slip on over to his house and check on him." 

What on Earth

Continuing to walk twords the dinning hall Chad didn't bother turning around while Jim was yelling at him. He new it was better if he just went, had something to eat and cooled down letting Jim cool down as well. Standing there and just yelling back and forth would do nothing except cause more of a scene and cause words to be thrown around.

It wasn't till he heard the shout of Eric's voice that Chad stopped and turned around only to see Eric being thrown from his horse. All Chad can do is stand there wide eyes and move a few steps closer to Eric but stops seeing Jim trying to help him up. He wished Jim hadn't been so loud so Eric wouldn't have come over at all.

Once Jim was gone Chad looked to Rosalyn the look on his face more sad and hurt than angry. There was so many things he wanted to say to her but before he could she was gone. Letting out a sigh he glances back to Eric. Seeing him limping and wincing a little bit Chad comes up along side him and slings his arm over his neck.

   "Here let me help you. Want to go see Angel?"

Having heard a commotion outside Stacy exited her bunk house. Just in time to see Eric take his fall and for a moment all she could do was stand there. What on earth was happening or going on? Moving off the pouch and coming over to Chad and Eric She looking at Eric with consern.

   "What on earth happened? Eric are you ok?"

Hearing the knock on he door and seeing Justin Hope was a little surprised to see him here but she didn't mind. Hearing his reason too didn't bother at all. Maybe talking in person was a little better than talking over the phone anyways.

   "I don't mind you stopped by at all. Come on in and have a seat."

Having Justin sit down and hearing that he noticed something different with Scott too made Hope feel a little bit better than she wasn't just imagining things. Though in a way she kind of wished she was and Scott was ok, but no such luck. At least Scott had Justin to talk to so he wasn't completely alone.

   "Well yesterday he asked me if I could drive him home and have coffee with him. I was more than happy too. We ended up talking, he broke a glass, than I asked about his photography. Told him if one day he wanted me to take him some where so he could take more pics I would be more than happy too."

Hope gives a small sigh as she remembers the conversation. Even now a day later it made her very sad thinking about it. She didn't want to lost her friend.

   "He ended the conversation with telling me we should not spend so much time together even if we were friends. As quickly as the door opened it closed again. It was just a friendly gesture to take him to the park or something because I know he didn't have a car and he took it as something more."

Accident

"Hope?" Justin knocks lightly on her open office door before stepping quietly inside and offering her a friendly smile. "Got your message. I just happened to be in town so I thought it would be just as easy to stop by rather than calling you back." In truth, he'd been to see his mom and exchange a few awkward words with Jared. At the moment, he'd just as soon concentrate on somebody else for a while, and he did have genuine concern for Scott. 

Hooking his thumbs in his jeans pockets, he cocks his head, studying Hope for a moment. She looked more tired than the last time he'd seen her. Was it her health or Scott that was having an affect on her? 

"I've been keeping an eye on Scott's mood and you're right - I think he's got some anger that's starting to surface. We covered a lot of things while at Brookshire, but it was mostly dealing with the present, not necessarily with what happened to him. I didn't think he'd push you away though. What happened?" 


Standing back and watching in horror as her dad took a swing at Chad, Rosalyn is too upset to even cry. She was glad that Chad had his wits about him and was able to avoid getting hurt, but this whole thing was making her feel sick. Not knowing what to do, she just nods numbly at Chad as he walks away, still standing in the bunkhouse. It wasn't until Jim moved that she did. 

Angry that he'd been unable to get the upper hand, Jim stalks out after Chad. "Don't you walk away from me!" he shouts. "I told you to pack up and-"

"Leave him alone!" Rosalyn finally finds her voice as he comes up behind her father. "You've said enough!" 

Jim whirls around to glare at her. "I haven't said nearly enough to either one of you! If I had-" 

"Hey, whoa, what's going on?" Eric had already been up for a short while, and was mounted on Static for an early ride before getting started with the day. Reining in his sweaty horse, he looks with concern between the three involved in this seemingly chaotic scene. 

Jim shoots him a look. "None of your business, so butt out." 

Frowning at Jim's tone, Eric holds Static steady as the horse senses the tension in the air and starts to fidget nervously. "I think y'all just need to calm down here."

"Don't tell me what to do! This is not your concern!" 

"It is when you're causing a scene!" 

Rosalyn's eyes widen as the two go back and forth and Static grows more and more nervous. Backing up a step, she glance to where Chad had walked, feeling trapped in this whole horrid mess. 

"Go take care of your horses or whatever it was you were doing," Jim growls. 

"I'll stay here if I want to." Eric shakes his head in disgust before giving Static's reins a warning tug for him to settle down. At this point, he just wanted Jim to leave Chad and Rosalyn be, before he did something stupid. He had no idea what had started the fight, but it had been an awfully long time since he'd seen that kind of blazing anger in Jim's eyes, and he wasn't about to take it lightly. "How about you and me go getting a cup of coffee an talking about it, huh?" 

"I don't need to talk about it!" Jim yells. At the same time, he throws his hands up in frustration. 

Too close to the horse, Static takes advantage of the moment by spooking at the flying hands. Shying to the side, he rebels against the bit and gives a quick buck with his hindquarters. Focused on the situation and not enough on his horse, Eric was unprepared for the quick movement. Tossed from the saddle, he does a sloppy somersault over Static's neck, landing hard on the ground. Rolling over, dazed, he looks up to see Static sprint towards the barn, reins flying. 

Now caught between still being angry, and also being sorry for the incident, Jim reaches a hand down to him. "You alright?" 

Breathing heavily, Eric looks up at the hand but doesn't accept it. "I'm fine. Just... knocked the wind outta me." Not happy, he locks eyes with Jim for just a moment. "I suggest you walk away." 

Knowing it was time to back down for now, Jim's expression is one of irritation and apology both. Backing up a few steps, he finally turns to leave, not looking at Rosalyn or Chad, but heading straight for the barn instead. 

Only now does Eric wince as he tries to get up. His bad leg had taken the brunt of the impact, and it felt none too good. 

"Eric, I'm so sorry." Rosalyn bends to help him up as tears form in her eyes. "Are you okay?" 

"I will be." Eric takes a deep breath and lets it out slowly. Standing, he puts little weight on his one leg but doesn't want Rosalyn to worry. "Don't be sorry - it wasn't your fault."

"Yes it was. It all is." The tears spill over and down her cheeks. "This whole thing is all my fault." Not wanting to even look at Chad right now, Rosalyn spins around and takes off at a half-jog towards the back corral, ignoring all the eyes that had stopped to stare at the scene. 


 

Lost Time

Assessing the the situation Chad was one step in front of Jim and from his body language he could tell his next move was to throw a punch. Chad really hoped that he wouldn't but he was ready just in case. Seeing the Jim was not going to rethink his actions Chad sets so the side ducking under Jim's swing and turning around quickly. Standing tall again Chad's eyes held a deep emotion of hurt more than anger. He was irritated, and upset but Jim's words cut him deeper than he would admit to. No one deserved to be judged no matter what, and to think Jim would think so little of him before he even new who he was.

   "I am going to go grab some coffee and breakfast and than see if I can help out around here to pass a little time like everyone else who is welcomed here and as far as I have seen I am welcomed other than by you."

Looking to Rosalyn Chad give her a look of sorry for getting her into trouble. He should have known better than to let her and himself fall asleep. No matter if they did anything wrong or not it looked wrong and it was simply not decent of him.

But on the same hand he gave her a small smile that showed his confadince that he wasn't going to be bullied or back down. He had a strong will when he new what he wanted and that he'd had a great deal of honor getting it. When it came to Rosalyn he respected her, and would never dishonor that respect.

   "Sorry I got you in trouble Rosalyn. I hope to see you at breakfast as well."

Turning around and making his way out of the bunk house Chad walks down the porch and starts across the yard heading to the mess hall. He couldn't stand there or he might say something he would regret. He meant no disrespect and he wanted to keep it that way. So walking away right now was the best thing he could do.

Having Cindy shift and sit into his lap Wes welcomed it. Even if he was still just a little bit sore he would never let on or reject having her close to him. Not now, not ever, not when he'd almost lost her and she had lost him. It made him see just how much more he was thankful for his wife, for the small things, the things that most people took for granted.

   "Shhhh...I don't hold that against you Cindy. If I really had been gone I would of wanted you to move on, so you could be happy, so our daughter could be happy. I know if was not you forgetting me, but just moving on with life. I'm happy I was able to come back though before it was to late."

Leaning his head down into Cindy's hair for a moment Wes just takes in the sent of it. The mornings he'd wake up and smile seeing her sleeping next to him. The afternoons when he would come home from lunch and find her rocking Kaylee in the nursery. The moments when he'd just watch them without them even knowing. Those moments and memories were the ones the he had clung to and gave him the will to move forward. 

Looking up again and into Cindy's eyes Wes just smiles. He'd never tire of searching the deeps, seeing the the twinkles, and the life. As Cindy moves into him he was all to willing to accept the kiss she offered. Wrapping his one arm even tighter around her, and the other cradling her face he kiss with such passion. He'd missed these moments, he'd missed her, and he never wanted to feel that again. So he left the kiss linger making up for so much lost time.

Sitting in her office Hope lets out a small sigh finding out that Scott had called in today. Something had told her that he might but she really had hoped he was wrong. She was lost on what to do and just leaving things be seemed wrong to her. But on the same hand she wondered if it was for the best. But still something seemed missing...

...The hours seemed to pass and Hope lets out a frustrated sigh putting down some paperwork. She had done her best to focus and get some stuff done she needed to but her mind kept wondering back to Scott. She was having a hard time just letting this whole thing go. Maybe she could talk with Justin? He was still working with Scott so maybe he could help in some way.

   "Hey Justin sorry I called at a bad time. This is Hope from TJY. I was just calling because I was worried about Scott. He's been pushing me away as of late and...I dont know I guess I felt like there was a problem that was not being addressed though I am not sure what it is. Maybe anger, in himself, the world I am not sure. I just felt like I needed to tell someone other than myself. If you have any other question feel free to call me. Take care."

Hanging up the phone Hope was kind of glad in a way she got the voice mail. She wasn't sure what to say to start with to Justin so not he could just listen to her babble. But at the same time she hoped he would understand too and maybe be able to help Scott through whatever he was dealing with.

O.o Temper

Seeing Chad stand up to her father, Rosalyn felt half empowered, half afraid. Standing back and watching, all she could do was hope this whole thing would end right here so this madness could cease. 

"Since you haven't done anything?" Jim's eyes narrow as his next words are barked in anger. "You're seducing my daughter! That's what you've done! And if I have to explain every stinkin' detail to you, then you're stupid right along with inappropriate and arrogant!" 

One more step closer and he was just inches away. "And I'll have you know, I've got all the right I need to throw you out anywhere I please, Mister. This is my home, not yours. You're the outsider, and I'm not in the habit of tossing around idle threats!" By now, his tone had just about reached its maximum yelling volume. "So you take your money, your good looks and whatever else you use to attract innocent girls and get out!" 

Too worked up to care about stopping himself, his body coils slightly, his shoulder rolling back, signaling the punch that was coming. And his fist shoots towards Chad's jaw. 

Taken completely off guard by Hope's quick kiss, Scott immediately tenses, sucking in his breath. But as fast as it had started, it was gone... and so was she. 

Standing in the open door, it's not until he shivers from the cool night air that he stops staring at the empty street. He hadn't even felt Domino pawing at his leg to come back inside. After closing the door and locking up, Scott aims straight for his bedroom, shutting off lights as he goes. He doesn't bother cleaning up from the coffee...he'd do it tomorrow. 

Getting to his bedroom, he doesn't even undress. Sitting cross-legged on his bed, he hugs a pillow and rocks slightly as several silent tears trickle down his face. He appreciates Domino's attempts to comfort him with her quiet nudges and licks to his hands. But he knew it wouldn't do any good. He knew the nightmares were coming. They always did, especially when his emotions were running this high. And he hated it. He hated hurting. He hated feeling at all. He wished he could just be numb. 

And many hours later as the sun rose in the sky, a call was made to TJY. Scott wouldn't be in to work today... 

It didn't matter if Cindy thought she'd run out of tears or not - they just seemed to keep coming. Overflowing with so many emotions, it was the only way she could handle it. Joined on the couch by Wes and hearing the short version of what had happened, her heart ached. He'd been hurt... hurt enough to have forgotten everything. But he'd hung on...for her. 

Not even knowing how to respond, Cindy shifts around and slips gently sideways onto Wes' lap. Curling into him, she buries her face against his warm chest as more tears flow. Having him close... hearing his heartbeat... feeling his arms around her... it had never felt so good. 

"I love you so much..." She sniffs and tries to regain some amount of control. "And I'm.... I'm sorry I gave up hope. I thought for sure you really were dead." 

Finally lifting her face, her tear-filled eyes stare into his. Oh, those eyes that went on for miles. Those eyes that she had fallen in love with so unexpectedly. Those eyes she was still madly in love with. Sliding her arms around his neck, she brings her lips to his once more, this time just letting them stay there as long as he'd let them, still afraid at any moment, he'd be gone again.

Not going anywhere...

As the door opens with a loud bang Chad stands as his eyes lay on Jim. He hadn't relized till now how much taller he was till being this close. He would see the fire in her fathers eyes and in a way Chad couldn't blame him. How things looked right now was really bad but at least he could of given him time to explain. To make matters worse though Chad didn't like how he talked to Rosalyn. Jim could yell at him, and call him anything he wanted but to hear his tone with his daughter just seemed to rub him the wrong way.

   "Corrupt your daughter? I'd like to know how I have done that! We were talking last night, and tell asleep thats where it started and ended."

Still standing tall Chad new he was bigger than Jim but he'd never use that power against him unless he felt threatened. He new thought that Rosalyn and himself did nothing wrong even if it looked bad Jim did have a right to be angry. But they also had a right to explain what had happened and have the benefit of the doubt. Not treated like they had done something wrong from the get go.

   "I'm not going anywhere Jim. I haven't done anything wrong so you can try and force me to leave but you have no grounds to stand on. I have a right to be here like any other paying customer to the ranch. I just have a perk of seeing my very pretty, and smart girlfriend. So you might as well leave your threats because they don't mean anything to me since I haven't done anything."

Grabbing her jacket and purse Hope puts them on slowly letting out a small sigh. Taking a small sigh Hope walks to the door. Looking at Scott again Hope searches his eyes before leaning into him slowly and pressing her lips against his lightly. Not lingering though she figured a little one might as well be risked since she was pretty much losing her friend anyways.

   "You're always welcome Scott. I never mind coming over and scaring whatever you need away."

Stepping out the door Hope stops again. It was hard to will her feet to continue  but it was hard. Looking over her shoulder. Trying to give a smile she waves a little bit.

   "I'll see you at work. Take care of yourself Scott."

   "Either the kitchen or the living room would be ok with me as long as it with you."

 Standing with Cindy Wes still keeps his one arm around her. He didn't want to let go, he wasn't ready to let go. Not yet, he had just gotten her back he wasn't going to let go yet. Turning slightly Wes waves to Sean in the car to let him know things were going ok.

   "Sean drove me but he's staying at a hotel in town. I didn't want to throw to much at everyone by having him pop up here too. I just had a small bag as well not really to much in it. I can grab it quick and meet you inside ok?"

Letting go of Cindy finally Wes gives a smile before going back to the jeep. Smiling at Sean no words needed to be said as he grabbed his bag. He new his friend would understand because he was just good like that.  Heading back to the house and grabbing his jacket and hat Wes steps inside.

Looking around he remember the house well and at the same time. He'd missed it here, and he was happy to be back. This was the house he built, for his wife and his child. This was there house. Making his way to the living room after placing his bag on the floor. Sitting down next to Cindy he puts his arm around her again leaning his head onto hers.

   "To much time has gone by that I have been without you...I am so sorry Cindy. I'd lost my memorie, and was stuck over seas. Not knowing who I was, why I was there, I didn't even know my name. But through that all I new I was missing something..and thats what drove me forward. It was you."

If you don't...

Cindy wasn't sure she was ready yet to quit crying, but she nods numbly and gets to her feet with Wes. She did want to know everything that had happened... why the Army had thought he was dead... why he hadn't been found... where he'd been all this time. There were so very many questions. At the moment though, she could go forever without answers. Just having her husband home was enough. 

Sticking like glue to Wes' side, she wipes her eyes and sniffs, trying to regain some control. "We can... sit in the kitchen if you want." She remembers the mess she'd made and shakes her head. "Or maybe the living room would be better." 

Moving forward, she stops, her mind reeling. "Oh... do you need to bring anything in? And you weren't alone, were you? Did someone bring you?"

Rolling onto her back, Rosalyn stretches again and yawns before blinking her eyes open again. "Ugh. I guess I'll... slip out alone," she decides. Turning her head and studying Chad for a moment, a smile curls her lips. "Thanks for letting me stay." A little color comes to her cheeks. She knew they'd done nothing wrong, but she also knew they shouldn't make a habit out of this either. "I slept really well." 

Propping herself up, she leans over and gives his lips a gentle kiss. "I'll see you in a little while, okay?" 

Before they could talk any more though, the peaceful atmosphere was suddenly shattered as the door was kicked in with a loud bang. Rosalyn jumps and sits straight up, her eyes wide. And as she sees her father enter the bunkhouse, she can feel all blood drain from her face. 

Jim's eyes were as cold as ice as he looks upon his daughter. "Get out," he hisses. 

"But, Dad, I-"

"Out!" His tone raises along with his finger pointing to the door. 

For a moment, Rosalyn feels as if she's frozen to the bed. Did her father really think anything had gone on here? How could he think she'd do something he wouldn't approve of? Deep down though, she knew that no matter how pure she and Chad had been last night, it still didn't look good. At least they were both dressed though - that had to count for something at the moment, right? 

Trembling slightly and not even daring to look at Chad, she slides off the edge of the bed and stands, bending to pick up her shoes. Actually leaving though was another story. 

When she goes no further, Jim takes another step inside. "Get your hind end out of this bunhouse right now, or so help me, Rosalyn, I'll do it for you." 

Rosalyn grits her teeth as her blood begins to boil. Everything about their fight last night comes rushing back, flooding her with anger. "I can walk myself out, thank you," she retorts. "I'll gladly follow you out." 

"You'll leave right now," Jim corrects. "I want to be left to speak to your boyfriend alone." 

Rosalyn's grip on her shoes tighten. "Whatever you have to say to him, you say in front of me," she defies stubbornly. 

"Fine. Have it your way." Jim takes a couple more steps closer to the bed, his eyes blazing as they land on Chad. "How dare you come here and corrupt my daughter." His tone was more than angry. It was seething. "If you don't pack up and leave within the hour, I will have you forcibly removed from this ranch."

Scott bites his lip and nods. He'd just really hurt Hope's feelings, hadn't he? It felt awful. He hadn't wanted to. But he knew he needed to say what he had. It was just all so messed up. 

"Yeah..." He rises from his chair to walk her to the door. "I'm sure you'll see me at work." She shouldn't feel too badly, right? She'd at least still see him at TJY now that he was working again. And yet... he knew deep down, that wasn't enough. 

Getting to the door, he musters up a small smile. "Thanks for coming over and scaring away the boogie man. I, um... I appreciate it."

Everything

As Cindy comes in for another hug Wes returns his arms around her and holds her close. Feeling her close feeling her acceptance, it was like a slice of heaven a heaven he thought he might never see again and now, her she was in his arms again. There was so much he wanted to tell her, he wanted to say to her, but right now just holding her and rocking slightly was all he could do. 

   "I miss you every second, minute, hour, day...they were never complete without you. I didn't think I'd ever see you again."

Pulling back a little bit and giving Cindy a few kiss to the forehead before burying his head into her head into her hair again and holding her. All the emotions the swirled around inside him, everything he'd been feeling this moment here just seemed to whip it all away. To be in his home, with his wife, and to see his daughter soon it took everything bad away.

   "How about we go inside and have some coffee...and I can fill you in on everything that happened mmmm...?"

Feeling Rosalyn move on top of him Chad opens his eyes again and runs his hand through her hair. He'd been awake for a while but didn't have the heart to wake Rosalyn. She looked so at peace resting there and he had been to comfortable to even think about moving her himself. This had been one of the best night sleeps he had gotten in a while.

   "You don't have to get up but I think for our own sakes we better before more people wake up and we run the risk of them seeing you leave me room. We know nothing happened but something tells me a few other people might not believe that."

Shifting a little to slip out from under Rosalyn Chad gives a stretch before turning and looking at Rosalyn and gives a smile. It really had been a good night sleep and now seeing her this morning she still looked as pretty as ever and he couldn't help but think how lucky he was again.

   "Want me to walk you out? Or do you wanna slip out on your own?"

Hearing what Scott had to say again Hope looks down at her empty hands again as Scott removed it from his arm. His words stung and Hope wasn't sure what to do now. She'd dont all she could do to let Scott know how else that she would not give up. Hope just felt so lost, and confused and hurt.

   "I...well...alright than. I guess I will just leave it at you coming to me when you want to hang out or something. Not like you don't know where I work right?"

Giving a half smile Hope wasn't sure what else to do or say. Feeling Domino next to her though it was almost like a nice tension breaker. Bending down and taking the dogs rubber bone Hope tosses it into the other room before straightening up again.

Looking back to Scott she shifts a little bit before looking around and than giving a knowing nod like everything was ok. It would be ok right? Something deeper was going on with Scott that maybe she could talk to Justin about but for now there was really nothing we can do. 

   "Well thanks for the coffee Scott. I guess I should head home now...see you soon?" 

 





 

All night

Hearing Wes' promise, Cindy can feel her walls crumbling even more. She had to trust him. She had to believe him. He was home. For good. He was really home.

"Oh, Wes..." Retreating slightly, she puts a hand to her mouth, just studying him again, assuring herself that it really was him. Overcome with emotions, she suddenly throws her arms around his neck, burying her face against his chest. Sobs break forth as she trembles, crying for sorrow... crying for joy. Forgetting they were on the floor, she just hugs him tight, fearing if she let go, he really would disappear and she'd wake up.

"I missed you so much," she chokes between tears. "I prayed so... so hard you'd be okay..." 

Lifting her face, her lips meet his to give him the kiss she'd longed to feel for so long. "I can't believe you're alive," she sniffs. "That you're here..." Returning to her tight hug, she cries some more, just soaking him in like a sponge. 

Stirring slightly, Rosalyn stretches her legs before sighing deeply. Her eyes still closed, she nuzzles her head further into her pillow even though her body was trying to wake itself up. She could tell it was time to get up. Actually, it felt a little later than that. Had she not heard her alarm? Maybe. But she was so comfortable, and Jade would cover for her if she was late to the kitchen this morning. 

Shifting a little more, she suddenly realizes she's not in her own bed and it was not her own pillow she was resting in. On the contrary, she was up against something very warm. Her head lay on Chad's shoulder, her arm still draped around him, her hand tucked under his open shirt against his warm skin. One leg was tangled with his own, and her other arm felt impossibly numb where she'd slept on it, apparently all night. 

All night. Oh, this was not good. She finally pries open her eyes to confirm everything she'd just figured out. Yes, and there was faint morning light outside. She groans and just tucks herself in beside Chad a little tighter. "Do I have to get up?" she mumbles.

If what Hope said was true, that she was satisfied with just friendship, then why did Scott see in her eyes what he did? Was she just that willing to ignore her feelings just so she could at least be friends with him? While that made him feel good, it was also frustrating. 

Scott's eye focuses on Hope's hand that lay on his arm. Her touch made him feel good, and he didn't like that. "I'm glad you want to be friends, and that's fine. I like being friends with you too." He shifts his arm out from under her hand as he leans his elbows on the table, deciding it was better just to remain seated. "But I still think we outta spend less time together. I can't handle it." There. He'd admitted it. It was because of him, not her. He was the one with the problem. He was the one that couldn't stand being so close to her all the time. 

Trotting over to her two favorite people, Domino carries in her mouth a squeaky rubber bone. Sensing that her master was not in the mood to play, she aims for Hope instead. Putting her front paws on Hope's leg, she looks up at her, her stumpy tail wriggling with excitement.

Promise

Looking up at Cindy all Wes could do was search her face, she pretty face, the face he had fallen in love with, the face of the woman who he would spend the rest of his life with, the prettiest face he still to this day had ever set eyes on. There was something about her that captivated his heart and even now it was the same, something that never was to die. 

Cindy's words cut his heart like a knife. They did not anger him and though they did make him feel slightly sad he did understand where she was coming from and if it were him in her position he would feel the same way. All he could do though was keep at least one hand on Cindy as if she might be gone again if he didn't. Wes' voice still but a whisper, soft, full of love and emotion some how pushed out the words he wanted to say.

   "I don't want to pick up where we left off because I know to much time has passed for that, but I would like to pick up and move on to our future."

Feeling Cindy's hand on his face again Wes can't help but tilt his head just a little bit so that he could nuzzle a little more into that hand and feeling clearer on his skin. Hearing the sob, and her words it shattered Wes heart. To think what it must have been like to think he was dead, to think about raising there daughter on her own. It must have been hard and than to show up here again Wes could only imagine the emotions.

Hearing Cindy's question Wes continues the silence for a long second. He's been hurt in the line of duty saving a young child's life. Being called back into the field was highly unlikely unless something major happened.

   "I promise I wont leave you for more than a day or two ever again from this point on. "

How dare you...

Watching Wes remove his hat and outer shirt, Cindy knew her request, on some level, was rather ridiculous. But she didn't stop him. She had yet to work through much buried anger for what had happened and the organization that had taken her husband away from her. 

Her eyes drifted to the scars on his face and her gut twists. Not because she thought they were ugly, but because of what he must have gone through. He not only had been missing, but he'd been hurt. How hurt? How had he suffered? Where had he been? What had he seen and experienced? What horrors had he lived through? 

There were too many words to try and sort them out as they all piled up and got stuck in Cindy's throat. As Wes steps closer, she stiffens, still not knowing what all this was about or if it was even real. He was supposed to be dead. No one had told her he was alive. Would he just be taken away again? Was this a cruel five-minute reunion, just to have him turn and leave again? Was this whole thing a dream? 

Cindy sucks in her breath as Wes touches her face. She knew that touch. She knew that hand. It was his and only his. No other man could spread such warmth through her. And his voice...yes, that was Wes' voice. Her husband's voice. The voice she had longed to hear for so long. If this was a dream, it was all too real. 

Without much time to react, Cindy is drawn to her knees with Wes, suddenly caught in his embrace. She'd seen him cry before...but not like this, and she thought her heart might just crumble right here. Still in a state of shock, some of her walls remain firmly in place, even if this really was Wes. Pulling back far enough to see him, she lifts her hand to his face. Her fingers run over his scars, so lightly as if she thought it would cause him pain. She straightens a strand of hair over his ear and rearranges a few locks above his forehead to look more like "her" Wes. Silent tears fill her eyes and slowly spill over, trickling down her cheeks without her even noticing. 

"How dare you come unannounced," she whispers hoarsely. Amidst the shock and love, fire flashes in her gaze. Her palm still rests gently on his face though, proof of the conflicting emotions she felt."You leave me, never to return... I thought you were dead..." Her voice wavers, matching her tears. "And now..." Her hand slides from his cheek. "Do you think you can just... just waltz back in here and pick up where we left off?"

She swallows hard, looking again at the scars on his face. How hard this all must have been on him. How heart-wrenching to have left his wife and daughter behind, thinking he'd never see them again. She knew how much he'd loved her and Kaylee. She had trusted that love and knew it was true. It wasn't his fault he'd left. But who else could she be mad at? She wanted to scream. Cry. Hit. But she couldn't bring herself to inflict any more pain on this man she loved so deeply. 

Searching his eyes, she could feel her walls starting to lower, and a sob catches in her throat. "I missed you so much," she manages between tears. Her had returns to his face, just feeling him to reassure her he really was real. "Please tell me you're not going to leave again." Her lower lip trembles and her face contorts as she tries to maintain control. "Because if... if you are... then you can just go right now." 

If what Hope said was true, that she was satisfied with just friendship, then why did Scott see in her eyes what he did? Was she just that willing to ignore her feelings just so she could at least be friends with him? While that made him feel good, it was also frustrating. 

Scott's eye focuses on Hope's hand that lay on his arm. Her touch made him feel good, and he didn't like that. "I'm glad you want to be friends, and that's fine. I like being friends with you too." He shifts his arm out from under her hand as he leans his elbows on the table, deciding it was better just to remain seated. "But I still think we outta spend less time together. I can't handle it." There. He'd admitted it. It was because of him, not her. He was the one with the problem. He was the one that couldn't stand being so close to her all the time. 

Trotting over to her two favorite people, Domino carries in her mouth a squeaky rubber bone. Sensing that her master was not in the mood to play, she aims for Hope instead. Putting her front paws on Hope's leg, she looks up at her, her stumpy tail wriggling with excitement. 

Never again

Letting his eyes fall on his wife as she opened the door Wes could feel all the words he wanted to say catch in his throat. He's tried to think of so many things to say and now as his eyes rested on the wife he had missed, and thought maybe he would never see again those words just didn't seem important anymore.

His eyes searching her face he felt sad admits his happiness to see her. She looked so thin, or warn, tired and stressed. To think he'd been the cause of it send another pain through his heart. He's promised to never do anything to hurt Cindy and now he had even if it hadn't been his choose or intention. 

Hearing Cindy's comment Wes still says nothing but takes his hat off making the few scars on his face even more viable. Next he starts to unbutton his shirt Wes takes it off a plan tan shit still underneath. Placing both the shirt and hate over the railing Wes turns back to Cindy. He could feel the tears welling up in his eyes. Taking a few steps forward he reaches out and gently runs his finger along her cheek, and jawline his eyes just taking in how pretty she was, and how much he's missed. His own voice a soft whisper.

   "I thought I'd never see you again."

Not being able to help the overwhelming feel of emotions anymore Wes slips his arm over Cindy's shoulders as he sinks down to her knees. Bringing his other arm around her as well and pulling her close to him. Burying his face into her neck he can't help the hot tears that streamed from his eyes. He's missed her so much, seeing her, feeling her, having her love there. He's missed everything about Cindy right down to her silly quirks. Now holding her again Wes just sat there keeping her close to him, letting his sobs come and just holding her.

Hearing Scott's words Hope can feel a little bit of her heart chip off. She new how Scott felt and that he wasn't ready for a relationship and she was ok with that. But hearing him say the words just seemed to make everything a little more real and it still hurt a tiny bit.

   "I don't expect anything Scott but your friendship Scott. That's all I want and all I ask for, you are important and your friendship is important."

Looking at Scott and searching his face Hope could see all the emotion, pain, worry and it stung. She new he was having a hard time battling with everything, and it was so clear to see the emotion in his eyes. She only wished he wouldn't push her away. He needed friends and people who cared, this was not the time to push them away.

   "And if you think pushing me away will stopping me from waiting for you than your wrong. Weather I see you every day, or never again I will still wait for you."

Taking a few steps closer to Scott Hope lays a hand on his arm for a second as her eyes continue to just look deep into his. She was pashent and she would continue to be so even if it meant doing it for the rest of her life. It was something she was willing to do for love.

   "You're worth that to me Scott. Even if all we ever have again is friendship, I will cherish what we once had, and love our friendship even more."

...isn't welcome

At Hope's suggestion of hanging out while he took more pictures, Scott's gaze roams her face. Whether she knew it or not, her eyes said a lot more than her words did. The way she looked at him proved she missed him...more than just a friend missing a friend. She was patient, but she was still waiting on him to make some kind of move beyond the relationship they had now. She wanted more. She still loved him. 

Letting his eyes drop again, he takes another sip of coffee before focusing on the table. Part of him very much wanted to spend more fun time with her. But part of him also felt a burden... a burden to resist so as not to hurt her in the long run. 

"That sounds like fun," he finally responds quietly. "I, um... it's just..." He gives a short half laugh half scoff and shakes his head. "I can't believe I'm saying this..." 

Looking up again, he locks with her gaze. His own was full of tiredness and remorse. "I think maybe it would be better if... we didn't spend as much time together." He pauses, swallowing hard and resisting the urge to reach over and take her hand. "You're waiting for something that's just never going to happen, Hope. I'm... not the same man I was before, and... I just don't see that I'll ever be in a place where I'll be able to have a relationship with you... 

...I'm sorry."


Hearing a knock at the door, Cindy gives a wail of frustration. Who was bothering her now? It had just been one of those days, and she'd already taken Wendy up on her offer to watch Kaylee since she'd been a holy terror. Alone in the house, she'd decided she could finally get some things done... until the clothes dryer had quit working, her computer had frozen up, two dishes had been dropped and broken, a shelf full of books had come tumbling down on her while being dusted, and the vacuum cleaner had stopped working. And now she was elbow-deep in cold soapy water trying to unclog the kitchen sink. And someone was at the door? Seriously?

Pulling her hand out of the drain, she grabs a towel. But drying off, something didn't feel right. Glancing down in dismay, she sees her ring finger empty. She'd lost weight and she'd known her wedding ring had been loose, but hadn't done anything about it. And now she was paying for that bad decision. Not to mention, she should have taken it off before doing the dishes like she always did anyway. What had she been thinking?

Pent-up frustration forced tears to her eyes and she swipes at them with her t-shirt sleeve. She'd pulled her hair back earlier but now half of it was falling around her face, and she knew she was a royal mess. And someone had to come now? She had half a notion just to ignore the door.

Huffing a sigh, she rolls her eyes and heads for the door. She'd come back and continue trying to unplug the drain, and now also hunt for her ring. Throwing the dish towel somewhere between the kitchen counter and the table, she ignores where it lands and goes in her bare feet to see who was there. If it was anybody but ranch family, she had half a notion to sock 'em in the face just for bothering her. 

Yanking open the door with irritation, her eyes looked straight ahead to see an Army uniform. A mixture of fear and even more irritation flooded her veins. Lifting her gaze, it traveled up until she saw his face. And when she realized who it was, it felt as though her heart stopped completely. Blinking, little emotion showed on her face. Was she dreaming? Had she fallen asleep and was now having a nightmare? Was this a joke? Was this real? Was this really Wes standing in front of her? Her husband? The man who was supposed to be dead? 

Taking a shocked step backward, her breath catches in her throat. The woman that had cried into her pillow at night yearned to leap into his arms and hold him tight and scream for joy. While the woman that was angry he had been taken away in the first place would just as soon leave mended the wounds she'd finally sealed. 

"Wes?" Her voice was but a hoarse whisper, her thin face contorted in confusion. Wrapping her arms around herself, the inner conflict worsens as she lifts her chin in defiance. "You better have a change of clothes," she whispers tersely. "'Cause that uniform isn't welcome in this house." 

What if

Hope gives Scott a small smile. Even if it was only a little bit she was  happy he was doing some of his photographing again. he had an eye for it and could catch angles of people, objects no one else could. It really was amazing to look at his work and see how amazing it was.

   "I don't think its the only thing you are good at but its definitely up at the top of the list. I've always enjoyed looking at your pictures."

Taking another sip of coffee Hope let's the warm liquid slide down her throat. It felt good to be sitting here with Scott enjoying the time chatting even if it was small talk. Things might be different now but Hope didn't mind. Spending time with Scott still made her feel good. There was just something about Scott that got her heart racing even now when they were taking things slow.

   "Maybe if you'd like to go someplace sometime to take more pictures I could drive you. I don't mind at all and the company is nice. I've really always have been amazed with the pictures you take. Not to mention we could bring lunch and Domino too so she can run around a little bit."

Following Chance outside Destiny continues to listen for his answer on what he wanted to eat. She thought it was slightly funny that his stomach would growl so loud and yet he had no idea what to eat. It put a new smile on her face as she got into the SUV and the question was turned back around on her. Destiny couldn't help but wonder if it was more than Chance didn't want to pick something she didn't like or if he really didn't know.

   "Ummm...how about...there is that new steak house that opened up a little bit ago that looked kinda good. How about we try that?"

 Looking to Chance Destiny smile before clicking her own seat belt into place. She still was having a hard time thinking Chance was really here. That she might wake up at any moment and find it was all a dream. If it was though she might enjoy it all while she could.

   "I remember...I have a wife her name is Cindy, and my daughter and Kaylee, my name is Wes Henson and I live in Texas as my family's ranch. I have been in the army for a while now and the last mission I was on something went wrong, and I was trying to save a little boy whose family was killed...."

Wes' words trail off as he looks through the passenger window. It had been three weeks ago he had said that, and come back to the states. She spend another two on base being debreffed and cleared mentally stable to return to his family. Cindy didn't know he was returning or that he was even alive yet, but she was soon to find out. 

Looking over to Sean Wes was lucky he'd made it out of the whole mess too and never gave up looking for him. If it hadent been for him coming forward no one might have really believed his babbling. Glancing back out the window and looking at his reflection he could see how much he had changed, the scar on his face, his neck, even the ones on his back he couldn't see had changed him. He wondered if when Cindy looked at him if she could still see the same person.

Pulling in the back way to the ranch that lead right to his house Wes sits up a little bit straighter. He was excited to see his wife and child again but at the same time he was incredibly nervous. Had she moved on? Would she accept him back? Would they be ok? Coming to a stop Wes gives a sigh and looked to Sean. His eyes really were laced with worry. 

   "You think she will be happy to see me after all this time?"

Giving his friend a nod and a reasuring smile Sean couldn't imagine how this much feel.  He was there for his friend though and would do the best he could.

   "How could she not man? Your the love of her life right? I mean it might take a little adjusting right but I think she'll be happy."

Letting out another sigh and opening the car door Wes takes a step out before making his way to the front door. Walking up the walk way that he had made what seemed like forever ago Wes had a new problem. What would he say when Cindy answered the door? What could he say? Hi, honey I am home, nothing seemed right to say.

Wes' shaky hand gives a knock on the door waiting for Cindy to come and answer it. Maybe he would know what to say than, maybe it would be a simple hi, but something deep in his heart just wanted to tell her how sorry he was for causing her so much stress, pain and loss. 

Fried

Scott nods slowly and eventually takes a sip of his coffee. "Yeah, I've been taking a few pictures here and there." He'd done some of her and Domino in the park a couple times, so she obviously knew about that. 

"Haven't done much more than what you've seen though. Guess it's a lack of inspiration... or lack of motivation to go some of the places I want to alone yet." That was true too. He just wasn't sure enough by himself yet to seek out good locations for more pictures. 

His eyes drift to the table and he shrugs. "Kinda miss it though. It's the only thing I'm halfway decent with, apart from computers, and my brain gets fried enough at work from that." 

Waiting for Destiny near the door, a new smile spreads on Chance's face as she emerges again. "I'm in the mood for..." He pauses to think, while opening the door for her. "Um..." 

Following her outside, he wanders to his SUV, motioning for Destiny to ride with him. Getting in and starting the engine before buckling up, he was still thinking. "How about..." 

Backing out of the driveway, he stops and looks at Destiny with a sheepish grin. "Yeah okay, I have no idea what I want. What sounds good to you?" 

Chad's slow, rhythmic breathing does nothing but lull Rosalyn into sleep as well. His soft heartbeat and warmth made her feel safe and relaxed - a much needed contrast to what she'd felt earlier. 

And so comfortable she was, that time slipped into the night as her head remained on Chad's chest...

Photograph

"Ha, from what I have been told Dani sounds like a woman who is definitely in love. I think it's great she is taking a little extra time to pamper Dalton. We all need it once and a while."

Accepting the coffee from Scott Hope smiles before turning to his fridge and grabbing some of the milk to put into the glass. Once finished she walks over to the table and sets the cup down before sitting again. 

Letting the silence linger for a second for the first time Hope couldn't help but feel a strange tense feeling in the air. She wasn't sure what it was from or why it was there but she could feel it. Maybe it was just that moment when normally he would be kissing, or cuddling. 

   "So have you picked up your photographing again? You were always really good at that. I'd like to see some new work you have done. I think you really have an eye for that."

Giving a little chuckle Chad sinks a little farther onto the bed and wraps his arms tighter around Rosalyn. It felt nice to be holding someone, to show them comfort and get it in return. It was a nice warm feeling and Chad didn't want to pass this up for a second. 

   "Mmmm...I think...I don't know what I think. I'll just shut up now."

Closing his eyes and continuing to run his hand through Rosalyn's hair soon it slowed though and so did his breath. Rosalyn's warmth on him a nice blanket, and dreams invaded his mind. It was to comfortable here to not fall into a deep sleep.

Hearing Chance's stomach growl Destiny can't help but give a laugh.  She couldn't help but find it slightly funny. Hearing her own stomach give a little growl she can't help but laugh again and this time she moves to get off of Chance. She was slightly hungry herself. Hearing when he eat last though She can't help her surprise.

   "Well why on earth did you wait so long to say something? My goodness man, yes yes we can go somewhere and eat before you wither away."

Holding out her hand to help Chance up Destiny heads to her bedroom to change and clean up a little bit since they were going out to dinner. Coming back out freshened up and looking a little more awake Destiny smile at Chance.

   "Alright I am ready, what are you in the mood to eat?"

Uncomfortable Silence

For some reason tonight, all Hope's encouragement did was irk Scott. He was so sick and tired of people telling him he was doing well, or that he'd come a long way or that things would be okay and just to give it time. It felt like that's all he heard anymore. Like he was something special to be treated with care, lest he fall apart. Maybe he would fall apart, but he wished people would just treat him like they treated everybody else. 

Swallowing an icy retort, Scott dumps the broken bits into the trash and puts the broom away before moving to the coffee pot with Hope. At least she'd changed the subject. 

"Yeah, he's doing well. I think he went home yesterday and will be back to work this week maybe." He pauses to pour Hope's coffee first, then his own. "Guess it depends how he feels. Though apparently Dani's been quite the nurse - he might milk this one for all it's worth so he doesn't have to come back to work yet."

Moving back to the table and sitting down, he wraps his palms around his coffee cup and stares down into the dark liquid. Tonight was going to be a rough night. He could feel it in his bones. 

Finally he lifts his gaze to Hope, daring a glance at her eyes. The silence was uncomfortable but he didn't know what else to talk about.


Rosalyn was glad that Chad would let her stay. He was being such a gentleman too. It didn't bother her that he hadn't had a shirt on, and it didn't make her uncomfortable to be in here alone with him, but she appreciated his thoughtfulness and him making sure nobody else got the wrong idea about them. It just proved to her that his intentions were pure. 

Shedding her jacket and kicking off her shoes, she crawls up onto the bed with Chad, tucking herself under his arm. Shifting on her side, she drapes one arm around him and sighs with content as his fingers run through her hair. "I won't promise anything either," she mumbles as her eyes fall shut. "You're 'bout the best pillow I've ever had." 


Smiling, Chance lets his head rest against Destiny's, giving her a little squeeze as he closes his eyes. "Me too. I can't promise things won't be kinda crazy with me, but... if you're willing... I'd like to find out where this thing leads." 

Sinking down a little further in the couch, he finds himself so very comfortable just like this. He wasn't sure what the future held. And despite everything they'd been through, he and Destiny really had not had much of a chance to get to know each other as friends - especially with him not living a lie. Even so, he could feel a deep connection. He might not know her favorite color and she might not know all his quirks, but somehow, Chance knew there was more here than just a casual relationship. And though he might not say it now, he felt his future did indeed include Destiny. 

As his stomach growls, his eyes fly open and he laughs. "I guess your kisses satisfied everything but my stomach. Come to think of it, I haven't had anything to eat since yesterday morning. Can I take you out somewhere for supper?" 

Next Chapter

As Scott brushes off his head and whatever else might have gotten hurt Hope picks up a few peaces of the mug and follows him to the garbage can tossing them into it. Stopping and looking at Scott Hope just study's him for a long moment. She could see the confusion in his eyes, the hurt, the pain and frustration and she wished she could make it go away for him. 

   "We all have our bad days where he can't see straight. It's those bad days we have to just try and make the best of. I think you're doing a pretty good job if I do say so myself."

Giving a smile to Scott Hope goes back over to the cubord where the cups were and pulls to more out setting them down on the counter ready to have the coffee poured into them. How badly she wanted to really make sure Scott's head was ok, to hold him and let him know things were going to be alright but she refrained giving him his space that he'd wanted. She was lucky to be here and still have his friendship she didn't want to push it.

   "So how is Dalton doing? Is he recovering quickly?"

Continuing to just hold Rosalyn and hearing her request Chad thinks for a second. It might not look so good having Rosalyn stay with him in his bunk but than again he did know he had control and he'd never do anything to harm Rosalyn. If it was only for an hour or too and he kept the lights on that might look a little better. After all he couldn't kick her out like this. 

   "You can stay for a little while I don't mind at all. The longer I get to hold you the better. Let me just put a shirt on ok? If anyone happens to see I don't want them to get the wrong idea."

Moving from the bed for a second Chad goes over to his dresser and pulls out a button up shirt and throws it on not bothering to button it up. Going back to the bed she sits down and puts his arm around Rosalyn again positioning his back against the wall so she could rest on him. Letting his fingers comb through her hair he can't help but smile to himself. If Mark saw him now he'd freak out for sure.

   "I'll try not to fall asleep on you. No promises though this is way to comfortable not too."

Looking back deep into Chance's eyes Destiny looks for meaning in his words, for feeling in what he said. She had learned to trust Chance again but still to find meaning in his words it made her heart flutter to think that maybe there really was something more there than just friends.

   "It is nice to be sitting here again together.  I have to admit it was pretty sad when I thought I had lost you. Even if I was extremely upset with you."

Leaning into Chance just a little bit and letting her head rest on his shoulder Destiny lets out a small sigh. Everything had happened so fast but Chance hadn't even hesitated to come and get her out of her prison. He had come, and he has saved her even if she had told him not too.

   "I'm happy you didn't give up with I told you too. I am excited where our next chapter in life will take us."

A while?

More embarrassed than hurt, Scott focuses on cleaning up the mess rather than Hope's presence... Until he becomes acutely aware of her touch... on his hand... and forehead. And for just a moment, he freezes.Tingles shoot through his veins, starting from where her hands rested. Her touch was light and warm, just like he remembered. Tender. Caring. ...Loving. And a new chill runs down his spine.

Rebelling against his heart's desire to embrace his emotions, he shifts his head out from under her fingers and is also quick to slide his hand from hers. At the same time, he refuses to look at her. "I'm fine. It's nothing." He didn't mean to be so cool, but it was the only way he could shake these unwanted feelings. 

Picking up the rest of the larger pieces of broken mug, he stands to retrieve the broom and sweep up the rest. Enough irritation had built up that he was tempted just to apologize to Hope and tell her to leave. Asking her here had been stupid, all he was doing was making a fool out of himself, and slowly but surely he was growing more and more uncomfortable with having her here in his house. But... he also didn't want her to think she'd done anything wrong. 

Handing her the dustpan, he silently asks for her help to clean up the floor. "Some days I hardly remember I've got a blind side," he comments quietly, trying his hardest to create smalltalk. "Then on days like today, I can't do anything right, on account of not being able to see everything." 

Sitting with Chad on the bed, Rosalyn tries to accept the comfort he was offering. It wouldn't change the situation, but she just wanted to feel better right now. 

His light kiss confirmed that he cared, even through this messy spot. Looking up into his eyes, Rosalyn nods just a little. "I know you don't want to leave. I'm just afraid my dad will press it and get Mick to make you go. That wouldn't be your fault though." 

Letting her head fall back to his chest, she sighs deeply, her tears finally having slowed. A few new ones escaped, but not as hard, and the sobs had ceased for now. Now all she felt was pure exhaustion, emotionally drained from the evening's fiasco. Closing her eyes, she sniffs again. "Can I... Can I stay here a while with you?"

Leaning his head back in the couch, Chance sighs before reaching up and tucking a strand of Destiny's hair behind her ear. Would it be too much to ask to just stay here forever? Right here, the two of them in a moment of peaceful bliss? He smiles. If she liked his kisses, then that's what she'd get. Wrapping both arms around her waist again, he leans in to give her another tender kiss before he pulls back and shakes his head. "I don't know when they'll want to use me again. Reese said to find somewhere to stay - that I'd have enough time to get settled before they'd send me back out. Apparently my skills are valuable enough to be used on some pretty high-security cases, but they don't want to burn me out either." 

Shifting forward, he lets Destiny go for a moment as he finally sheds his jacket then leans back in the couch again. One hand takes hers, while the other rubs her back gently. "He gave me a choice. I could have walked away and decided on some other line of work, or even another location. But..." He shrugs. "I guess after everything happened, I decided I wanted to try it on the right side of things for a while and...I figured I'd be bored anywhere else. As far as a location went, well..." He squeezes her hand. "That wasn't too hard to decide either."

His eyes probe hers, searching down to their deepest depths. "I never really got a chance to tell you how grateful I was for your willingness to take me back as your friend, or... more. I know I don't deserve any of this, and... I can't tell you how good it makes me feel to be sitting here with you right now."

Aittle More

As Rosalyn continues to cry Chad doesn't mind that warm wet tears that splashed onto his skin. He would let her cry as long as she needed and never think anything of it. Moving into the bunk a little more Chad leads Rosalyn to the bed and sits down just holding her close and listing to her.

Letting her talk and just listing Chad rock's softly soaking everything she was saying up. He couldn't understand why her father hated him so. He'd never done anything to show he was disrespectful or that he would do anything to hurt anyone. He was a older sure but that automatically made him a bad guy?

Pulling away from Rosalyn and looking down into her eyes Chad brings a finger to the tears on her cheek and just rubbing her face with his finger. Looking down into her eyes for a long moment Chad finally leans down and places a small kiss on her lips before pulling away again.

   "I promise you no matter what I am not going anywhere till I have to go back to work. You have my word and that means everything to me."

Leaning into Mick as his arm slid his arms around her Rosetta couldn't help but smile a little more and give a sigh of contentment as the rocked and forth slightly. It was the quiet moment's she got to spend with Mick that Rosetta liked the most where she could just soak him up, and enjoy his love.

   "Mmmm...it does seem strange to think of what life might have been if non of this happened. It's really a thought I don't like to visit, I like my life to much."

Sitting at the table and giving a little nod Hope understood what he was saying. Though he felt like he was waiting for something to happened Scott was really pulling himself together. He was doing better than he had before, and he was starting to look a little better too. Some slight color was coming to his face, and he was putting a little meat on his bones. He really had come a long way.

About to say something Hope stops as the cup comes crashing to the ground. Letting her eyes go wide for a moment Hope was to her feet and over to  Scott in a heart beat. Taking his hand in her own to stop him from picking up the glass for a second Hope brings her hand to his head to check out the bump.

   "Scott Hun...are you ok? Do you need any ice or anything?"

   "I have to say I think your kissing runs a close second with just you being here on the list of things I missed about you."

Destiny gives a smile as she was still in Chance's lap her arms around his neck. She wasn't ready to let go yet, and was enjoying this far to much to end this moment. Having Chance back was better than she could of imagined it  and who new when he'd have to go on another mission she better enjoy this while she could.

   "So...you know when they are sending you out again? Or do I at least get a little more time with you?

Embarrassed

Rosalyn falls into Chad's embrace, melting under the protection of his arms. Keeping her face hidden in his chest as they step inside, she shakes her head, trying to regain her voice. "It's... it's me he's angry with." 

More tears come. If she could nuzzle any closer, she would. "He thinks I'm being stupid..." She sniffs before swallowing hard and scrunching her eyes shut tight. "And he thinks I'll just... just get hurt. He... told me not to see you again and... and he was going to force Mick's hand and... and get you to leave." 

Her slow tears become a series of sobs as her emotions bubble over. She hadn't meant to cry all over Chad, but it was just all so confusing and it hurt so much. 

As Rosetta joins him, a soft smile spreads across Mick's face. Giving her hand a squeeze, he turns to kiss the top of her head. "Mmm... I think you've said it once or twice... I love you too." 

Giving her his other hand to hold, he slips his arm from between them so he can wrap it around her shoulders. Letting the swing rock gently, his eyes continue to watch the ranch. "It's hard to imagine life away from here. Sometimes it's even hard to remember my own life before I came back here." 

Scott manages a little smile, unsure if Hope really wanted coffee all that much, or if she was just looking out for him. Either way it was okay with him - he was the one who'd asked her to come anyway. 

"I dunno... sometimes I think this house is cozy and sometimes it feels like something's just waiting to happen." He didn't like to think he was still scared after all this time, but it was the truth. If there was one thing he wanted out of life it was to not be afraid anymore. But so far he hadn't figured out how. 

With an awkward pause at the table, Scott rises to check the coffee. Opening the cupboard, he retrieves two mugs, only to turn towards his blind side and ram his head into the open door. Flinching, his fingers lose their grip and one the mugs is sent to the floor with a crash as it shatters. The loud noise startled Domino enough to send her scurrying from the kitchen, then peek back around the corner carefully, wondering what on earth had happened.

Groaning, Scott slams the cupboard door, blaming it rather than his lack of caution. Kneeling on the floor, he starts to pick up the pieces, muttering to himself. "Never liked this cup anyway." In truth, right now he felt all thumbs. He should have just come home alone. He shouldn't have asked Hope to come. He shouldn't have invited her to his house. It was all his stupid fault and he felt utterly ridiculous and embarrassed, and would just as soon scrap the whole evening and go crawl in bed and forget about it. But he'd been dumb and now he still needed to take time to drink coffee with Hope whether he liked it or not.

And somewhere not far away, Chance and Destiny smooched the night away, then ran off together, disappearing altogether.

Cozy

Waiting for Scott to unlock the door Hope was pashent. She wouldn't rush him inside, or act like she was in a hurry. Fact of the matter was that even if it was a little cold out it felt nice and Hope didn't mind the fresh air.

Entering the apartment and looking around Hope steps to the side and lets Scott head in the direction he wanted to go. Following behind him She unzips her jacket before coming to the table and setting it on the back of one of the chairs. Be offered to sit down at the table Hope was happy to as she waited for the coffee to be ready. Looking across the table at Scott she gives a smile before a little shake of her head.

   "I don't know why you're calling yourself a coward. I can for coffee, not to protect you."

Hope's smile curves a little bit as she tried to make Scott feel good. He might be a little skidish but she was ok with it and it didn't really bother her at all. Scott was an important person to her and she would always treat him as so.

   "..anyways its cozy here, I like it better than going out anywhere."

Giving a thoughtful nod and continuing to stir the sauce in the pot. Though she had her own feelings about Carson Misty was really happy for Alec. There was a look in his eye that said he wanted to know his family and who was she to think anything wrong with that. 

   "I am very happy for you Alec. Maybe you will be able to get to know your family more slowly."

Finished with the stuff inside she had to do Rosetta walks to the door. Peeking out and seeing Mick sitting on the swing Rosetta opens the screen door letting it gently close behind her as to not wake BJ. Coming over to the swing Rosetta eases down next to Mick and leans her head on his shoulder slipping her hand into his own. It was moments like this that she loved the most sometimes.

   "Mmmm...nothing like having a crisp night to snuggle close with someone. Have I told you I loved you today?"

Hearing the soft knock at the door Chad was a bit surprised. He hadn't been expecting anyone and had just crawled into bed. Not wanting to dismiss the knock though in case it was something important he slowly walks to the door his pajama pants on, but no shirt, and his bare feel scraping softly on the floor. 

   "Rosalyn?"

Seeing her standing there and the tears that were clear in her eyes Chad's heart went out to her. He could only imagen what the fight was about and new he was more than likely in the middle of it. Sstepping forward and putting his arm over her shoulder Chad pulls her in close to him and wraps his arms around her before turning to step inside a little more. 

   "Shhhh...Shhh...come on in babe its gonna be ok. Was your dad angry with me again?" 

Just wanted...

"I think since I've got Domino with me, it'd be better just to go home," Scott reasons. Going out somewhere was probably a better idea than having Hope over to his house, but he didn't want to make the little dog wait in the car or wait any longer for her supper. She could survive, but he'd be nice to her.

Heading out with Hope, Scott breathes in the evening air. It was a little chilly since the sun went down, making him glad he'd worn his hoodie. After getting to his car, he starts out first, letting Hope follow. Halfway home, he felt even sillier for asking anybody to go home with him. It really was rather childish, and he knew someday he'd have to face the dark whether he wanted to or not.

Arriving at his house, he parks and waits for Hope to join him before stepping up on the porch and unlocking the door - all three locks. Having someone with him made him try a little harder to not act as paranoid as he felt inside. He wanted to check every nook and cranny before settling in for the night, but he knew good and well that Domino would alert him if anything was wrong, and all she did once the door was open was head to her bowl in the kitchen.

"Somebody's hungry," Scott muses aloud. Grinning, he shakes his head, letting Hope in the house in front of him. Aiming for the kitchen, he flips on the lights and first feeds Domino before putting on a pot of coffee. Letting it brew, he motions to the kitchen table, sitting down with Hope. He could suggest the living room couch but... maybe the table was better.

"Thanks... for coming over." His eyes drift everywhere but her gaze. "Maybe one of these days I won't be such a coward."

Accepting the job of cutting up the peppers, Alec nods absentmindedly. "Yeah... I hope it works out too. I mean, I know it's just a few hours and it might not last very long if I can actually find something else but..." He shrugs. "I guess I'm just sorta glad he's being nice to me. Like maybe I have a chance at something after all." 

Had he ever admitted out loud how much he wanted to be with his family? He didn't think so. But the ache in his heart hadn't gone away. He wished he knew his brother better. He wished he knew his sister better. At least he was getting to see his niece, whom he dearly loved, even though he might not say it. But he still wished to be closer to his siblings. He'd just messed things up too badly.

"Hey, Sparky?"

Sparky stops mid-stride in the barn aisle, turning towards Mick's voice. "Yeah? I brought those colts in for the night like you wanted."

"Oh, yeah, thanks." Mick approaches, stopping in front of him. "Something else though. I was just in the break room going through some things and I was checking a few records. Sorted through what we've got in the safe in there, and I keep coming up a few hundred dollars short on that money we stashed in there. Any idea where it went? Did I send some of that with you to an auction or anything recently?"

Sparky fiddles with the leadrope in his hand as he eyes drift elsewhere. "Uh, no... no, not that I know of."

"I feel like I'm going crazy." Mick tilts back his had, scratching his forehead. "Maybe my math's off but I've counted it three times."

"Oh."

Mick cocks his head, realizing that his brother wasn't looking at him. "Do you know where that money went?"

"Well I haven't used it for anything, if that's what you're asking."

"No, that's not what I'm asking." Mick nudges Sparky's shoulder until he looks at him. "But you do know something about it don't you?"

Sparky coils up the rope and clears his throat. "All I'm saying is that the missing money will probably show back up again." He turns to leave, but Mick's hand on his shoulder stops him. He keeps his back to him though. "I made someone a promise not to talk about it, Mick."

Mick was even more concerned now. Who had needed money that badly to have taken it from the safe? Why wouldn't someone have asked for it? Mick would give it to anybody in need, but he was a bit perturbed that someone would take it without at least telling him. "Who?"

Sparky glances back over his shoulder, studying his brother's eyes. No matter what he'd told Dylan, now was the time for truth before this got blown out of proportion. "I think you better ask your son about it."

"Dylan?" Mick's eyebrows shoot up. "But why? What did he need the money for?"

Sparky continues his route, hanging up the rope on the way to the door. "I've said all I can," he calls back.

Left alone, Mick sets his hands on his hips, irritated with being left in the dark like this. But if Dylan had something to do with this, then Dylan he would ask...

..."Dylan?"

Dylan looks up from his schoolwork spread out on his bed, surprised to hear his dad's voice. He didn't usually come looking for him, especially in the evenings when everyone was settling down for the night. "Yeah? It's open."

Mick enters the bunkhouse slowly, letting the door close behind him. "Hey, you got a minute?"

Dylan shrugs, tapping his pencil on his knee as he sat cross-legged. "Sure."

"I, um... I was talking with Sparky a few minutes ago and he pointed me in your direction. I'd been asking him about some money that was in the barn safe."

Dylan's shoulders automatically drop. He'd almost had everything paid back again. After a string of auctions lately, he'd been so close. "What...did he tell you?"

"Nothing. That's why I'm here." Mick folds his arms and studies his son's face, searching for answers. "I'm not accusing anybody... I'm just looking for answers. Do you know why there's several hundred dollars missing?"

Dylan's eyes fall to his books and he swallows hard. He knew he was in for it now. "Yeah... I do."

Mick sighs. There was a bigger story here - he could feel it. And it was obviously something he wasn't going to like, or else Sparky would have been more upfront with him. Not to mention, his son's body language had guilt written all over it. "You wanna explain?"

"Not really." Dylan finally looks up with a little smirk. He knew that not explaining wasn't an option at this point. Still fiddling with his pencil, he shrugs again. "It was when I left. I took several thousand dollars."

Mick's eyes widen and he comes a few steps closer, trying to understand. "But there's-"

"I blew it all." Dylan keeps going. "Mostly on bus fares ...and drugs. I knew you'd kill me if you discovered I'd taken the money though so... I've been paying it back little by little. I was trying to pay it all back before you found out, but... looks like I was just a little too slow."

Mick still didn't have all the pieces and he shakes his head, more confused so far, than angry. "But how have you been paying it back? And why did Sparky..." Suddenly it clicks. "The auctions."

Dylan nods. "Every time I've gone with Sparky, I've done some fast horse trading and made a few hundred dollars at a time. I was planning on getting the last chunk here at the next auction." He bites his lip. "I, um... suppose you'll be taking all this outta my hide now, huh?"

Sighing deeply, Mick slowly shakes his head. Perhaps it was his pattern to lose his temper over something like this. But perhaps it was also time to change that pattern. "No...no, I don't think so. Looks like you're doing a pretty good job of paying it all back on your own. I don't think anything else is necessary, do you?"

Dylan blinks. His dad wasn't even going to yell at him? "I... guess not. I mean... if you want me doing something else, or working it off or-"

"You do more than your share of work around here," Mick interrupts. "Don't think I haven't noticed. I'm disappointed you stole that money, and I'm disappointed you didn't come to me about it sooner. But I'm also pretty sure it's not something you'll do again, and I'm impressed that you've been paying it back. So... there's not a whole lot more to be said, is there?"

Dylan swallows hard. "I'm sorry."

Mick purses his lips and nods once more. "Me too. But I forgive you. Just let me know when the rest of the money's in there, okay?"

"Okay."

What Mick really wanted to do was hug his son, but he refrains. "Alright... well... I'll leave you to your schoolwork. Rosetta says you're zipping right through some of your classes."

"Yeah. I got a little ways to go yet but I should be able to test out of a couple subjects here soon. I might actually be able to get done with school by next summer if I keep up with this pace."

Knowing that he'd been held back a year then had had so much trouble since then, Mick really was quite impressed that he'd worked hard enough to get that caught up on his work. Dylan should have been graduating this coming spring, but to be able to do it a few months late instead of a whole year or more was quite a feat. "I'm proud of you, Dylan."

Something tugs at Dylan's heart and he just gives Mick a little nod. "Thanks." 

 ...Easing down on the porch swing, Mick's eyes roam the ranch yard. Rosetta would expect him inside soon. He'd only gone to finish up a few things after supper and one thing had led to the next until it had become later than intended. BJ was probably in bed by now... he'd have to go say goodnight at least before going to bed himself. But for now... for now, he just wanted to rest in the quiet evening under the stars.

Taking off his hat, he runs a hand through his hair before leaning back in the swing and letting it rock gently. He was amazed at how life had led him to this point. In one of those bunkhouses was his daughter... so young but so grown up too, engaged and planning her life. In another bunk was his son... even younger yet so much more mature than he ever should have been. His future was so foggy, and Mick worried often about him. Then behind him was another son, full of life and love and energy, bringing so much joy with his innocence. And Mick also had Rosetta. Would she ever know how much happiness she brought him? It would be difficult for anyone to ever know. But she'd fulfilled his life in so many ways - he thanked God every day for bringing their lives together again.

What would tomorrow bring? Or the next week? Or next year? Mick didn't have a clue. He only hoped that he would make the right decisions and be the man God wanted him to be. He'd already made so many mistakes... would he ever be as wise as he should?

Letting out a deep sigh, he continues just to sit and rock gently.

Rosalyn steps softly up onto the small porch, pulling her jacket tighter around her shoulders. It was hardly cold, but she felt extra chilly in the night air. It wasn't too late, but the sun had been down for hours and the ranch had grown quiet. 

The day had been one full of smiles with moments of bliss. After Chad had finished helping her with the garden, they'd gone for a walk and simply enjoyed each other's company, holding hands and sharing more about each other. They'd been gone longer than planned but had been around for supper, then had hung out with a few others like Clint and Jeff who didn't seemed disturbed by Chad's presence. After that, Rosalyn and Chad had said goodnight, splitting ways. She had walked home, feeling so happy and warm all over... Until she'd walked inside the house. 

Wiping her eyes with the back of her hand and sniffling, she now knocks quietly on Chad's door as more tears surface. She didn't want to bother him. He'd said he'd be going to bed. She didn't want to wake him. But she didn't want to go back home either. 

Waiting until he'd come to the door, her eyes rise to meet his. Several more tears trickle down her cheeks and her voice wavers as she speaks. "I'm... I'm sorry to bother you. I just... I went home and... and Dad got mad and we had a big fight and..." She chokes, trying not to cry any more. "I just... I just wanted to be with you."