Still standing behind Carson Thirteen shook her head. She new that this was someone from her past life. She never new his name, but she new his face well and his voice. How could someone who spent day in and day out around another forget them. No...she remembered everyone she came in contact with there.
"No...No I know you are a guard from there. You use to bring me food or what you thought was good enough to keep me alive. You'd yell in the hall and tell people you wanted to bring me in for the experiments. You would put a bag over my head and push me. I can remember it like it was yesterday. It haunts my dreams and still...sometimes I can feel the cold steel of the examination table, or the wine of the noises in my head. Than one day you...you were just gone and someone else took your place, worse than what you did."
"Reese...sorry to bother you. Carson wanted me to call you. He said he was bringing a prisoner into the Elite."
As Aerith talked on the phone to Reese she fumbled to get the handcuffs from Carson. This was definitely not how she saw her night turning out. She wasn't sure if she felt worse for herself or for Thirteen in this situation.
"I don't know how it is. I think I heard him saw his name was Garret, and Thirteen is freaking out about not wanting to go back to The Agency. Ok...I'll let him know."
Hanging up the phone and bringing the handcuffs out to Carson Aerith had her own look of fear on her face. She new as long as Carson was there they would be safe, but still she couldn't help being shaken up as well.
"Reese said he'd meet you there in five minutes."
8/15/15
Mistaken...
Feeling Victoria's breath on his cheek, Aaron stared into her eyes. He tensed, as a bead of sweat trickled down the back of his neck. Only when she'd backed off did he breathe again, and cleared his throat. He wanted to retaliate. He wanted to step up and tell her off. But he wasn't that stupid. All he could do was get red in the face as she maintained the upper hand.
"Right. Collens instead of Harrison. Whatever you say." If it wasn't for Medridge's own orders, Aaron would take who he wanted. But he couldn't risk it.
Pushing off the wall, he headed for hi quarters. He had a lot to prepare and very little time.
Thirteen? Was this girls name really a number? All Garret's plans were falling to pieces because of this unexpected encounter. He'd wanted to get Carson alone. He'd wanted a chance to explain his presence before all hell broke loose, but it was quickly turning backward on him, and he didn't even know why. His instincts screamed at him to take action, and it took all he had to stay put and remain calm. He could easily get away or even take out Carson and the girl both, but he couldn't. Not this time. This was a new game he had to learn now.
"Take it easy," Carson comforted Thirteen. "He's not taking you anywhere." He made sure he stood between her and Garret, his blood boiling at the thought of anyone harming Thirteen - before or now.
A guard? What? Garret's confusion grew.
"Is that why you came here?" Carson took a step closer to Garret, still aiming his shotgun. His voice rose with his temper. "Well? Is it?!"
"No!" Garret shook his head. "I came to see you. I don't know what she's talking about. I've never seen her in my..." His voice trails off as suddenly his mind's eye saw a much younger version of Thirteen. A messy ponytail. Agency scrubs. Pale, gaunt face. Eyes that had lost their shine. A young life raised by the Agency to know nothing other than the inside of their facility. Thirteen...a number. A name.
"Well??" Carson took another step. "You explain yourself, or so help me, they'll be cleaning your brains off the walls for weeks."
Garret swallowed hard but remained cool. He eyed the gun's barrel warily. "How about lowering that scattergun first?"
"Aerith!" Carson yelled. "Call Reese. Tell him to meet me at the office in half an hour and that I've got a prisoner. Then bring me the handcuffs that are in my room."
Garret sighed. "Really? Look, I just want to talk and -"
"Why. Are. You. Here?"
"I came to make a deal. Your help for mine. Plain and simple."
Carson's eyes narrowed. "And Thirteen?"
Garrett shook his head. "She must be mistaking me for someone else."
"Right. Collens instead of Harrison. Whatever you say." If it wasn't for Medridge's own orders, Aaron would take who he wanted. But he couldn't risk it.
Pushing off the wall, he headed for hi quarters. He had a lot to prepare and very little time.
Thirteen? Was this girls name really a number? All Garret's plans were falling to pieces because of this unexpected encounter. He'd wanted to get Carson alone. He'd wanted a chance to explain his presence before all hell broke loose, but it was quickly turning backward on him, and he didn't even know why. His instincts screamed at him to take action, and it took all he had to stay put and remain calm. He could easily get away or even take out Carson and the girl both, but he couldn't. Not this time. This was a new game he had to learn now.
"Take it easy," Carson comforted Thirteen. "He's not taking you anywhere." He made sure he stood between her and Garret, his blood boiling at the thought of anyone harming Thirteen - before or now.
A guard? What? Garret's confusion grew.
"Is that why you came here?" Carson took a step closer to Garret, still aiming his shotgun. His voice rose with his temper. "Well? Is it?!"
"No!" Garret shook his head. "I came to see you. I don't know what she's talking about. I've never seen her in my..." His voice trails off as suddenly his mind's eye saw a much younger version of Thirteen. A messy ponytail. Agency scrubs. Pale, gaunt face. Eyes that had lost their shine. A young life raised by the Agency to know nothing other than the inside of their facility. Thirteen...a number. A name.
"Well??" Carson took another step. "You explain yourself, or so help me, they'll be cleaning your brains off the walls for weeks."
Garret swallowed hard but remained cool. He eyed the gun's barrel warily. "How about lowering that scattergun first?"
"Aerith!" Carson yelled. "Call Reese. Tell him to meet me at the office in half an hour and that I've got a prisoner. Then bring me the handcuffs that are in my room."
Garret sighed. "Really? Look, I just want to talk and -"
"Why. Are. You. Here?"
"I came to make a deal. Your help for mine. Plain and simple."
Carson's eyes narrowed. "And Thirteen?"
Garrett shook his head. "She must be mistaking me for someone else."
Bad Side
Victoria cocks her head at Aaron as a smile spreads across her lips and a chuckle comes out as well. He was grasping at straws and she new it. In a way it really was rather funny in her own mind. Straitening gives a small nod as she drew herself closer to Aaron.
"You mean my emotions to just end the suffering I am going to have to endure having an arrogant man who thinks he knows everything on my team?"
Becoming only inches from Aaron Victoria brings her hand up to his chin and tilts his head back slightly so she could look in his eyes. Her lips only inches from his, her breath brushing across his skin as she can feel his own.
"Don't get on my bad side and maybe...just maybe I'll keep my emotions in check enough you'll live to see that promotion."
Letting go of Aaron's face and stepping away from him Victoria turns and makes her way back to the house. She needed to get everything ready for leaving tomorrow to go to the states. Who new how long this was going to take, or how easy or hard it would, but she wouldn't take any chances with Garret's life. They'd be prepared for anything.
"Bring Kirk, and Collens by the way. Harrison is to bull headed and has an issue following directions."
Thirteen couldn't help the fear that coursed through her. It was like everything else faded away and nothing else around her even mattered. Her heart raced as tears ran down her cheek. Seeing Carson Thirteen let out a small breath of air though she was still panicked and freaking out. If there was one person she trusted more than Ryder it was Carson.
"Please...don't let him take me back to the Agency. I don't want to go back there...thats why he is here. I just know it. He use to be one of the guards when I was there before. Please Carson...I dont want to go back."
As Carson came up closer Thirteen stepped behind him. She was shaking, scared and didn't know what to do. She felt so useless not being able to even stick up for herself but she couldn't help it. She'd just froze and been so so scared.
"You mean my emotions to just end the suffering I am going to have to endure having an arrogant man who thinks he knows everything on my team?"
Becoming only inches from Aaron Victoria brings her hand up to his chin and tilts his head back slightly so she could look in his eyes. Her lips only inches from his, her breath brushing across his skin as she can feel his own.
"Don't get on my bad side and maybe...just maybe I'll keep my emotions in check enough you'll live to see that promotion."
Letting go of Aaron's face and stepping away from him Victoria turns and makes her way back to the house. She needed to get everything ready for leaving tomorrow to go to the states. Who new how long this was going to take, or how easy or hard it would, but she wouldn't take any chances with Garret's life. They'd be prepared for anything.
"Bring Kirk, and Collens by the way. Harrison is to bull headed and has an issue following directions."
Thirteen couldn't help the fear that coursed through her. It was like everything else faded away and nothing else around her even mattered. Her heart raced as tears ran down her cheek. Seeing Carson Thirteen let out a small breath of air though she was still panicked and freaking out. If there was one person she trusted more than Ryder it was Carson.
"Please...don't let him take me back to the Agency. I don't want to go back there...thats why he is here. I just know it. He use to be one of the guards when I was there before. Please Carson...I dont want to go back."
As Carson came up closer Thirteen stepped behind him. She was shaking, scared and didn't know what to do. She felt so useless not being able to even stick up for herself but she couldn't help it. She'd just froze and been so so scared.
Long Time
The fact that Misty was leaving things in Carson's ballpark was another surprise, but he wasn't about to draw attention to it. Yes, he'd call her, and it would take all his self control not to do it first thing tomorrow.
"Okay, well..." How could he say goodnight? This wasn't fair...but he'd be grateful for what he had. "If you need anything..." Not that she'd call him, but it was worth an offer. He reached over to take her hand, and planted a gentle kiss on her fingers. "I'm always here."
Just as he started to rise, his cell phone went off, and he bit his lip. What now? Retrieving his phone from his pocket, he saw it was the restaurant. It must be one of the girls. "I gotta get this," he apologized. "The girls are prolly burning down Mom and Pop's." He gave Misty a little nod. "I'll talk to you again soon. Goodnight, Misty." A wink was the last expression before he was gone, out the door. "Yeah, hello." He answered the call as he stepped down off the porch. And hearing Aerith's strained voice and the commotion on the other end, his pace immediately quickened...
Garret opened his mouth to decline a drink, but didn't even get the words out before the young woman lost it. His eyes widened in surprise. What in earth was going on? Who was this, and why was she panicking?
He stood and put his hands up. "Whoa, whoa, hey, I'm just looking for Carson Banks." Hearing Carson was one of the people the girl was telling at her friend to call, he knew he was at the right place, but now he was even more on edge.
"I don't know who you think I am, but that's all I want - just to see Carson." He searched the girl's frightened face. Who did she think he was, and where did she not want to go again? Being gentle was not his strong point, making this all the more difficult. "Don't call the police - I'm not here to hurt or take anyone." The last thing he wanted was for the police to be called. But why was there recognition on her face? Surely there wasn't an Agency connection here...was there?
In the back of the restaurant, the door quietly opened. Carson had made it here in record time. Slipping into the kitchen, he put his finger to his lips to keep Aerith quiet as he opened a bottom cupboard and retrieved his shotgun. Easing back out and down the short hall, he emerged, the gun pointed at the stranger. "One wrong move and I blow your head off," he hissed.
Garret's hands remained midair and he quirked an eyebrow as he slowly turned his gaze. "Mr. Banks. Long time no see."
It took only a moment for it to register in Carson's mind who this was. "Garret Jackson, you swine." He made his way across the room to Thirteen, keeping Garret in his sights. "Thirteen, you okay?" he asked. "What happened? Did he hurt you?"
Aaron nodded. "Good theory. You could be right. I'd be surprised if the Elite was close enough to nab Garret but with all that's happened, maybe they're stepping up their game."
He paused, thinking through all they'd need to prepare. "I was thinking of taking Kirk and Harrison, unless you have another preference. Once we're in the states, depending on leads, I might send them on way while we go another, to cover more ground."
His eyes found their way to Victoria's face. I trust your emotions won't interfere with what we need to do."
"Okay, well..." How could he say goodnight? This wasn't fair...but he'd be grateful for what he had. "If you need anything..." Not that she'd call him, but it was worth an offer. He reached over to take her hand, and planted a gentle kiss on her fingers. "I'm always here."
Just as he started to rise, his cell phone went off, and he bit his lip. What now? Retrieving his phone from his pocket, he saw it was the restaurant. It must be one of the girls. "I gotta get this," he apologized. "The girls are prolly burning down Mom and Pop's." He gave Misty a little nod. "I'll talk to you again soon. Goodnight, Misty." A wink was the last expression before he was gone, out the door. "Yeah, hello." He answered the call as he stepped down off the porch. And hearing Aerith's strained voice and the commotion on the other end, his pace immediately quickened...
Garret opened his mouth to decline a drink, but didn't even get the words out before the young woman lost it. His eyes widened in surprise. What in earth was going on? Who was this, and why was she panicking?
He stood and put his hands up. "Whoa, whoa, hey, I'm just looking for Carson Banks." Hearing Carson was one of the people the girl was telling at her friend to call, he knew he was at the right place, but now he was even more on edge.
"I don't know who you think I am, but that's all I want - just to see Carson." He searched the girl's frightened face. Who did she think he was, and where did she not want to go again? Being gentle was not his strong point, making this all the more difficult. "Don't call the police - I'm not here to hurt or take anyone." The last thing he wanted was for the police to be called. But why was there recognition on her face? Surely there wasn't an Agency connection here...was there?
In the back of the restaurant, the door quietly opened. Carson had made it here in record time. Slipping into the kitchen, he put his finger to his lips to keep Aerith quiet as he opened a bottom cupboard and retrieved his shotgun. Easing back out and down the short hall, he emerged, the gun pointed at the stranger. "One wrong move and I blow your head off," he hissed.
Garret's hands remained midair and he quirked an eyebrow as he slowly turned his gaze. "Mr. Banks. Long time no see."
It took only a moment for it to register in Carson's mind who this was. "Garret Jackson, you swine." He made his way across the room to Thirteen, keeping Garret in his sights. "Thirteen, you okay?" he asked. "What happened? Did he hurt you?"
Aaron nodded. "Good theory. You could be right. I'd be surprised if the Elite was close enough to nab Garret but with all that's happened, maybe they're stepping up their game."
He paused, thinking through all they'd need to prepare. "I was thinking of taking Kirk and Harrison, unless you have another preference. Once we're in the states, depending on leads, I might send them on way while we go another, to cover more ground."
His eyes found their way to Victoria's face. I trust your emotions won't interfere with what we need to do."
Call Anyone
Thirteen can't help the laugh that escaped her lips. The last few weeks there had been more good days, than bad days and she'd really enjoyed becoming friends with Aerith. At least she had one friend she enjoyed hanging out with aside from Ryder.
Hearing the bell on the door Thirteen looks to Aerith. They must have forgot to lock it after the last customer had left. Looking at Aerith Thirteen shakes her head with a smile before heading twords the door from the back room.
"I'll get it."
Heading out while holding a plate, and a towel to dry it off Thirteen's mind really wasn't on the person who had just walked in. She was thinking about many different things and mainly about what Ryder and herself were going to be doing once he picked her up shortly.
"Hey, Sorry but we are closed. We must have forgot to lock the front door. Can we get you a soda or coffee for the inconvenience?"
Clearing the fog from her head and looking twords the strange that walked in Thirteen couldn't help the uneasy feeling that came over her. She'd been doing really good around people, and in different situations but something about this...there was something that almost sent panic through her.
Moving around the table he was at and being able to see his face better Thirteen instantly got flash backs of her time with the Agency. Everything she'd been though and this face, this man, he'd been there too. No...this couldn't happen...not now. Dropping the plat on the floor it shattered with a loud crash, and not being able to help the yell that came from her lips. Panic took over.
"No...No...Aerith...call the cops...call Ryder, call Carson, call anyone...No...Please...I dont want to go back...I dont want to go back please."
"You are welcome. I really enjoyed it too. It was nice."
Misty looks down at the table before looking up at Carson again. She really had missed having dinner with him even if this time it was a little awkward. But the time was coming when she new Carson would have to leave and she'd be home with her own thoughts. She new he'd have to go but she hated the thought of being alone in the house.
"We will have to plan something else another time. I wont be back to work right away I dont think. Unless I get really bored here, but you know my number. I'll...be looking forward to it."
As night feel and Victoria was outside among the stars she couldn't help but miss Garret more. No one would know that part of her heart or the pain she felt from it but it was there and she felt it all to much. She couldn't dwell on that now, not while trying to do a mission or she just might give Aaron that leverage over her he needed.
"I think in this situation small will be better. I looked up one of Garret's aliases that he would only use if he was in trouble and sure enough it had been used. He's in the US, and the only reason I could think of he'd end up being there is if The Elite is in on it, and after the whole mess with that Banks kid, I can see a reason for them to retaliate."
Leaning her head back and looking up at the sky Victoria is quiet for a long moment as she just lets her mind wonder. She was trying to formulate a plan and she was trying to do it fast. Who new what the Elite were doing to Garret, or worse.
"We should leave tomorrow. It might take a bit to track down where they are, and I'd like to not wast to many days. The sooner we find Garret. the sooner we can take or revenge and be back."
Hearing the bell on the door Thirteen looks to Aerith. They must have forgot to lock it after the last customer had left. Looking at Aerith Thirteen shakes her head with a smile before heading twords the door from the back room.
"I'll get it."
Heading out while holding a plate, and a towel to dry it off Thirteen's mind really wasn't on the person who had just walked in. She was thinking about many different things and mainly about what Ryder and herself were going to be doing once he picked her up shortly.
"Hey, Sorry but we are closed. We must have forgot to lock the front door. Can we get you a soda or coffee for the inconvenience?"
Clearing the fog from her head and looking twords the strange that walked in Thirteen couldn't help the uneasy feeling that came over her. She'd been doing really good around people, and in different situations but something about this...there was something that almost sent panic through her.
Moving around the table he was at and being able to see his face better Thirteen instantly got flash backs of her time with the Agency. Everything she'd been though and this face, this man, he'd been there too. No...this couldn't happen...not now. Dropping the plat on the floor it shattered with a loud crash, and not being able to help the yell that came from her lips. Panic took over.
"No...No...Aerith...call the cops...call Ryder, call Carson, call anyone...No...Please...I dont want to go back...I dont want to go back please."
"You are welcome. I really enjoyed it too. It was nice."
Misty looks down at the table before looking up at Carson again. She really had missed having dinner with him even if this time it was a little awkward. But the time was coming when she new Carson would have to leave and she'd be home with her own thoughts. She new he'd have to go but she hated the thought of being alone in the house.
"We will have to plan something else another time. I wont be back to work right away I dont think. Unless I get really bored here, but you know my number. I'll...be looking forward to it."
As night feel and Victoria was outside among the stars she couldn't help but miss Garret more. No one would know that part of her heart or the pain she felt from it but it was there and she felt it all to much. She couldn't dwell on that now, not while trying to do a mission or she just might give Aaron that leverage over her he needed.
"I think in this situation small will be better. I looked up one of Garret's aliases that he would only use if he was in trouble and sure enough it had been used. He's in the US, and the only reason I could think of he'd end up being there is if The Elite is in on it, and after the whole mess with that Banks kid, I can see a reason for them to retaliate."
Leaning her head back and looking up at the sky Victoria is quiet for a long moment as she just lets her mind wonder. She was trying to formulate a plan and she was trying to do it fast. Who new what the Elite were doing to Garret, or worse.
"We should leave tomorrow. It might take a bit to track down where they are, and I'd like to not wast to many days. The sooner we find Garret. the sooner we can take or revenge and be back."
8/12/15
Visitor
"Of course... I'll yell loud." Tal tried to sound more excited than he felt. He just wanted Ryan to be okay, and she seemed like she was miles away. "See you at the finish line."
He was going to give her a kiss for luck, but just as he moved closer, she was off to get in place. He sighed and hooked his hands in his pockets as he wandered to a good lookout point. She might have some obscure plans after the race, but he'd at least see how she came out and tell her goodnight.
As Victoria spoke, Aaron's pulse quickened. Perhaps his strategy had been flawed. Garret had always warned him that his cockiness would be the death of him, and at the moment, it seemed he was getting close to that line. Had he stepped too far?
He couldn't help an almost-silent breath of relief as Victoria backed down. He was no match for her, and had pushed his luck about as far as he could. Her relenting to work with him was all he'd wanted. If anyone could locate Garret, it was her, and he'd apparently been right. It had taken her even less time than he'd anticipated.
He turned to her and gave a nod. "I'll put in my request with your grandfather. I've little doubt he'll deny me my wish since he too knows your skills." He started to leave, pausing only once to look back. "We'll get Garret back. And whoever took him will pay." The main house was now his destination. A meeting with Medridge was in store...
"...I'd like Victoria on my team, Sir."
Medridge sat behind his desk, his eyes narrowing at Aaron's request. "You know I've had her on lockdown. I cannot risk losing her along with Garret."
"Indeed. But she's also a huntress by nature. I have little doubt I can locate Garret, and even less doubt Victoria can succeed in half the time. She would be a strong addition to the team. I would view it as wise strategy to allow her to accompany me in the search."
Medridge gave him a thin smile. "You speak too smoothly for your own good. Garret warned me you were meant for more than a simple lookout guard."
Aaron stood a little taller. "Let me prove my usefulness in this, and you won't be disappointed."
Medridge thought for what seemed forever until he spoke again. "So be it. But this case requires stealth. Whoever took Garret will most likely expect a large retrieval force. I would prefer a quick and simple rescue that will take them by surprise with little risk to Garret's life. As such, you are to have a team of only four. Use who you may, and utilize them as you see fit. Bear in mind that should Victoria wish a move contrary to your own, she has the authority. Is that understood?"
Aaron hid his displeasure. He knew he could never get around the fact that as Medridge's granddaughter, Victoria would always trump any other agent. "Yes sir."
"Good." Medridge waved him to the door. "Go. I don't wish to see you again until you have a plan of action..."
"...So that's what we've got." Aaron leaned against the guard house, his eyes roaming upwards at the dark sky. Only a few stars were visible through the lights at this end of the compound. It was a quiet and fairly private place though, at this time of night. It was also the first chance he'd had to meet with Victoria again. "I was hoping for a larger team, but maybe he's right - maybe smaller would be better."
He glanced over at her. "Do you really know where Garret is?"
Carson was quick to accept Misty's suggestion, glad for something to do. He missed helping her get supper ready. He missed coming home to her cooking after he'd stared at pizza all day. He missed...being home. But if he said all that, she might take it the wrong way...so he remained quiet.
Eating with her was just as awkward. Yet even though this was a most terrible kind of day after the most terrible circumstances, there was something peaceful about this. Maybe it was the simple presence of hope. Carson tried to make conversation by smalltalk of the restaurant, recent visits with Mackenzie and the like. It was so strange that talking was this difficult, but maybe it was at least a start.
With plates cleared and his water glass almost empty, he knew he'd have to leave soon. He didn't want to. But he knew had to. This was all part of taking things slow, right?
His fingers fiddled with his water glass as his eyes glanced over at Misty. "Thank you...for supper. It was really good and... I really enjoyed coming over."
Garret adjusted his backpack strap on his shoulder and continued walking down the dark sidewalk. His black cap was pulled down low, but his senses were on full alert. Clad in a dark shirt, cargo pants and laced-up boots, one might take a guess that he was some kind of military, but nothing could be farther from the truth.
The car he'd "borrowed" during the last two days had been abandoned on the other side of town, and he'd taken a winding route on foot since then, leaving his identity virtually untraceable. It was now late evening, and the streets were growing quieter. Arriving at the little restaurant's window, Garret peered inside the dim interior. The closed sign on the door indicated all customers would be gone - a good thing.
Ignoring the sign, Garret tried the door and found it open. He stepped inside, his eyes rising as the bell announced his presence. He could hear movement back in the kitchen, but instead of heading that direction, he pulled out a chair from one of the tables and sat, letting his backpack rest on the floor near his feet. He knew someone would have heard him enter, and was prepared to let them come to him.
He was going to give her a kiss for luck, but just as he moved closer, she was off to get in place. He sighed and hooked his hands in his pockets as he wandered to a good lookout point. She might have some obscure plans after the race, but he'd at least see how she came out and tell her goodnight.
As Victoria spoke, Aaron's pulse quickened. Perhaps his strategy had been flawed. Garret had always warned him that his cockiness would be the death of him, and at the moment, it seemed he was getting close to that line. Had he stepped too far?
He couldn't help an almost-silent breath of relief as Victoria backed down. He was no match for her, and had pushed his luck about as far as he could. Her relenting to work with him was all he'd wanted. If anyone could locate Garret, it was her, and he'd apparently been right. It had taken her even less time than he'd anticipated.
He turned to her and gave a nod. "I'll put in my request with your grandfather. I've little doubt he'll deny me my wish since he too knows your skills." He started to leave, pausing only once to look back. "We'll get Garret back. And whoever took him will pay." The main house was now his destination. A meeting with Medridge was in store...
"...I'd like Victoria on my team, Sir."
Medridge sat behind his desk, his eyes narrowing at Aaron's request. "You know I've had her on lockdown. I cannot risk losing her along with Garret."
"Indeed. But she's also a huntress by nature. I have little doubt I can locate Garret, and even less doubt Victoria can succeed in half the time. She would be a strong addition to the team. I would view it as wise strategy to allow her to accompany me in the search."
Medridge gave him a thin smile. "You speak too smoothly for your own good. Garret warned me you were meant for more than a simple lookout guard."
Aaron stood a little taller. "Let me prove my usefulness in this, and you won't be disappointed."
Medridge thought for what seemed forever until he spoke again. "So be it. But this case requires stealth. Whoever took Garret will most likely expect a large retrieval force. I would prefer a quick and simple rescue that will take them by surprise with little risk to Garret's life. As such, you are to have a team of only four. Use who you may, and utilize them as you see fit. Bear in mind that should Victoria wish a move contrary to your own, she has the authority. Is that understood?"
Aaron hid his displeasure. He knew he could never get around the fact that as Medridge's granddaughter, Victoria would always trump any other agent. "Yes sir."
"Good." Medridge waved him to the door. "Go. I don't wish to see you again until you have a plan of action..."
"...So that's what we've got." Aaron leaned against the guard house, his eyes roaming upwards at the dark sky. Only a few stars were visible through the lights at this end of the compound. It was a quiet and fairly private place though, at this time of night. It was also the first chance he'd had to meet with Victoria again. "I was hoping for a larger team, but maybe he's right - maybe smaller would be better."
He glanced over at her. "Do you really know where Garret is?"
Carson was quick to accept Misty's suggestion, glad for something to do. He missed helping her get supper ready. He missed coming home to her cooking after he'd stared at pizza all day. He missed...being home. But if he said all that, she might take it the wrong way...so he remained quiet.
Eating with her was just as awkward. Yet even though this was a most terrible kind of day after the most terrible circumstances, there was something peaceful about this. Maybe it was the simple presence of hope. Carson tried to make conversation by smalltalk of the restaurant, recent visits with Mackenzie and the like. It was so strange that talking was this difficult, but maybe it was at least a start.
With plates cleared and his water glass almost empty, he knew he'd have to leave soon. He didn't want to. But he knew had to. This was all part of taking things slow, right?
His fingers fiddled with his water glass as his eyes glanced over at Misty. "Thank you...for supper. It was really good and... I really enjoyed coming over."
Garret adjusted his backpack strap on his shoulder and continued walking down the dark sidewalk. His black cap was pulled down low, but his senses were on full alert. Clad in a dark shirt, cargo pants and laced-up boots, one might take a guess that he was some kind of military, but nothing could be farther from the truth.
The car he'd "borrowed" during the last two days had been abandoned on the other side of town, and he'd taken a winding route on foot since then, leaving his identity virtually untraceable. It was now late evening, and the streets were growing quieter. Arriving at the little restaurant's window, Garret peered inside the dim interior. The closed sign on the door indicated all customers would be gone - a good thing.
Ignoring the sign, Garret tried the door and found it open. He stepped inside, his eyes rising as the bell announced his presence. He could hear movement back in the kitchen, but instead of heading that direction, he pulled out a chair from one of the tables and sat, letting his backpack rest on the floor near his feet. He knew someone would have heard him enter, and was prepared to let them come to him.
First
Victoria kept her stands strong, unmoving and her face unchanging. It was what she was brought up, it was what she was trained to do and half the time it even surprised her how good she was at it. But its what she needed to do to survive, it was the only way.
"I always think its cute when people think they know what they are talking about but really...they have no idea."
Drawing her gun and taking aim at the target Victoria is still quiet as she shoots a few rounds before holstering her gun again and turns around leaning on the railing. She wouldn't till Aaron, not yet. He really had no proof to his accusations so it was no threat.
"I do know more than most people know though. After all thats part of the perks of being the best. But on that note too I wouldn't need to be on your team to leave. If I told my grandfather I new where Garret was and I could bring him back I bet I'd be the one picking out the team and leaving while you sat here and just wallowed away about getting on my bad side."
Letting out a long sigh Victoria was getting bored of this banter. It was no fun honestly, and she never really had tolerance for people like Aaron. Maybe it would be best to just get this over with and than deal with him later. It would save her time after all.
"That's to much work though. I did look up one of Garret's aliases and know where they've taken him and I have a good idea who too. Get me on a team with you and all that information is yours, but not untill than."
Ryan gives a small nod slightly detracted. She could definitely do lunch tomorrow around her lunch time. Her eyes scan the crowd again before returning to Tal.
"Ummm...meet me at my work around noon and we can go from there?"
Hearing the recent race finish Ryan new she'd be up next and she needed to hurry if she was going to be in on it. She just wanted to free her mind from everything and when she raced thats what happened. It was her complete calm.
"Oh um..no just have some other plans. I gotta go if I want to get in on this race. You better cheer the loudest ok?"
Hearing Carson was spending more time with Mackenzie made Misty smile just a little even if it was gone just as fast. The young girl needed her father, she was suffering just as much as everyone else and to know that she had someone to lean on made Misty feel good. She always wanted her to know she was there for her no matter what, but she was such a mess herself she didn't know how she could of been much help to anyone.
"It's good to know you have been spending time with her and getting a long ok. She really needs her dad in her life."
Hearing Carson mention Alec Misty froze for a moment. She know he was just talking and he didn't mean anything by it, it was just hard to hear that it was really true. Thinking about that reminded her about all the things around the house she still needed to do and clean. It was not going to be easy and she new it.
As the subject was changed again and Carson asked to help Misty relaxed a little and looked around the kitchen. There wasn't much left to do but she new Carson hated stilling still.
"You can cut the pot roast for me if you want. Other than that dinner is almost ready."
"I always think its cute when people think they know what they are talking about but really...they have no idea."
Drawing her gun and taking aim at the target Victoria is still quiet as she shoots a few rounds before holstering her gun again and turns around leaning on the railing. She wouldn't till Aaron, not yet. He really had no proof to his accusations so it was no threat.
"I do know more than most people know though. After all thats part of the perks of being the best. But on that note too I wouldn't need to be on your team to leave. If I told my grandfather I new where Garret was and I could bring him back I bet I'd be the one picking out the team and leaving while you sat here and just wallowed away about getting on my bad side."
Letting out a long sigh Victoria was getting bored of this banter. It was no fun honestly, and she never really had tolerance for people like Aaron. Maybe it would be best to just get this over with and than deal with him later. It would save her time after all.
"That's to much work though. I did look up one of Garret's aliases and know where they've taken him and I have a good idea who too. Get me on a team with you and all that information is yours, but not untill than."
Ryan gives a small nod slightly detracted. She could definitely do lunch tomorrow around her lunch time. Her eyes scan the crowd again before returning to Tal.
"Ummm...meet me at my work around noon and we can go from there?"
Hearing the recent race finish Ryan new she'd be up next and she needed to hurry if she was going to be in on it. She just wanted to free her mind from everything and when she raced thats what happened. It was her complete calm.
"Oh um..no just have some other plans. I gotta go if I want to get in on this race. You better cheer the loudest ok?"
Hearing Carson was spending more time with Mackenzie made Misty smile just a little even if it was gone just as fast. The young girl needed her father, she was suffering just as much as everyone else and to know that she had someone to lean on made Misty feel good. She always wanted her to know she was there for her no matter what, but she was such a mess herself she didn't know how she could of been much help to anyone.
"It's good to know you have been spending time with her and getting a long ok. She really needs her dad in her life."
Hearing Carson mention Alec Misty froze for a moment. She know he was just talking and he didn't mean anything by it, it was just hard to hear that it was really true. Thinking about that reminded her about all the things around the house she still needed to do and clean. It was not going to be easy and she new it.
As the subject was changed again and Carson asked to help Misty relaxed a little and looked around the kitchen. There wasn't much left to do but she new Carson hated stilling still.
"You can cut the pot roast for me if you want. Other than that dinner is almost ready."
8/9/15
Hot Date
Carson nodded as he backed away and let Misty return to fixing food. He wanted to hold her again. He wanted to turn her around and feel her kiss in his lips. But as he desperately tried to read her, he knew he couldn't move too quickly. She wanted slow, he'd give her slow. He'd never moved slowly with anyone in his life, let alone her. And he wasn't even sure how. But he'd try his best.
He returned to sit at the table and fiddled awkwardly with a napkin. "I've...I've been spending more time with Mackenzie lately..." It felt a rather lame start to conversation, but he might as well let her in on what his life was like lately. "We usually go to the park or something since the restaurant isn't all that interesting." He grinnned a little, although deep down, living at Mom and Pop's was pretty depressing. It's where he'd started out, and he was right back there again. "Justin...he suggested still seeing her to help her get..." He bit his tongue. "...get through losing Alec."
He cleared his throat and stood back up again. He couldn't just sit here and talk like an idiot. "Can I help do anything? I'm no better at sitting still than I've ever been."
Tal watched as Ryan pulled out her phone and sent a text. Her turning him down threw him for a little loop, and he couldn't help his look of disappointment, even though he tried to smile. "Oh, okay." He wanted to out his arm back around her, but suddenly it felt like there was an invisible wall between them. He couldn't explain it - it was just...there.
"Yeah...yeah, I can do lunch tomorrow. Just name where." He cocked his head and quirked a teasing grin. "Got a hot date tonight or something?"
Aaron wasn't outwardly fazed by Victoria's authority, even if on the inside, he knew good and well he was walking a very fine line. She could have him dead before he hit the ground and he knew it.
Bravely turning his back to her, his eyes traveled the surrounding area. "We all have more than one secret. But the one I'm referring to has something to do with what's really between you and our missing man." He tossed a glance over his shoulder at her. "You have no reason to kill me though. I don't care who's invovled with who, as long as it doesn't jeopardize our missions. Who you choose to have a love affair with isn't any of my business."
He looked back out over the shooting range. "But...call it a hunch, but I'd bet you know more about Garret's movements than anyone else. Your grandfather wants me to find him. If you help me, I might move up in the ranks. I guess all you'll get out of it is getting Garret back for yourself, but I think that would be worth it to you. I can also request you be on my team - in that case, Medridge might let you off the property and you can come with me. Otherwise...you'll continue to be stuck here with your hands tied."
He returned to sit at the table and fiddled awkwardly with a napkin. "I've...I've been spending more time with Mackenzie lately..." It felt a rather lame start to conversation, but he might as well let her in on what his life was like lately. "We usually go to the park or something since the restaurant isn't all that interesting." He grinnned a little, although deep down, living at Mom and Pop's was pretty depressing. It's where he'd started out, and he was right back there again. "Justin...he suggested still seeing her to help her get..." He bit his tongue. "...get through losing Alec."
He cleared his throat and stood back up again. He couldn't just sit here and talk like an idiot. "Can I help do anything? I'm no better at sitting still than I've ever been."
Tal watched as Ryan pulled out her phone and sent a text. Her turning him down threw him for a little loop, and he couldn't help his look of disappointment, even though he tried to smile. "Oh, okay." He wanted to out his arm back around her, but suddenly it felt like there was an invisible wall between them. He couldn't explain it - it was just...there.
"Yeah...yeah, I can do lunch tomorrow. Just name where." He cocked his head and quirked a teasing grin. "Got a hot date tonight or something?"
Aaron wasn't outwardly fazed by Victoria's authority, even if on the inside, he knew good and well he was walking a very fine line. She could have him dead before he hit the ground and he knew it.
Bravely turning his back to her, his eyes traveled the surrounding area. "We all have more than one secret. But the one I'm referring to has something to do with what's really between you and our missing man." He tossed a glance over his shoulder at her. "You have no reason to kill me though. I don't care who's invovled with who, as long as it doesn't jeopardize our missions. Who you choose to have a love affair with isn't any of my business."
He looked back out over the shooting range. "But...call it a hunch, but I'd bet you know more about Garret's movements than anyone else. Your grandfather wants me to find him. If you help me, I might move up in the ranks. I guess all you'll get out of it is getting Garret back for yourself, but I think that would be worth it to you. I can also request you be on my team - in that case, Medridge might let you off the property and you can come with me. Otherwise...you'll continue to be stuck here with your hands tied."
Fifteen Minutes
Feeling Carson's hand on her face Misty leans into a little bit. Oh how she'd missed those rough yet soft tender hands. No matter how mad she was, or how much she really tried to deny it She really had missed it. Whipping the rest of her tears away for now Misty steps back from Carson and turns to the salad that had made it's way all over the counter starting to pick it up.
"Let's start with dinner, and than go from there. Maybe we can set up some date, or times to get together and do coffee."
Misty's emotions still churned but she tried to keep them at bay for now. She hoped this would work, and she wouldn't regret it. There had been to much of that already and she didn't want anymore of that. She just wanted to make things right again.
Feeling Tal's arm around her shoulder Ryan smiles a little looking at him. She was happy Tal was there but at the same time she felt kind of strange. Maybe thats why Alec wasn't. Feeling her phone vibrate in her pocket Ryan breaks away from Tal pulling it out.
Sorry babe wont be able to make it after all, maybe later after the race we can talk ok?
Alec wouldn't be there after all. That was a slight disappointment but maybe a good thing too.
Yeah that sounds good to be. I should be home around midnight.
Registering Tal's invitation Ryan slips her phone back into her pocket and looking at Tal once more. Shakes her head before replying.
"Sorry I wont be able tonight. Maybe tomorrow we can do lunch or something?"
Entering the shooting range Victoria takes a quick look around to make sure it was just them. If things went south she really didn't want other people to know, see or hear and have anything get out of hand more than it already might. At least this here was controlled and she was in charge.
Coming up to Aaron Victoria locks eyes with him for a long moment before saying anything. She studied him, wondered about him, wondered what he new, and what he wanted from her. She wouldn't give in though, or let anything slip that she didn't want too.
"Well aren't we quick to be asking questions. Fifteen minutes or not, I can always order whoever shows up away again and they will listen. So how about you start off with telling what secret you think you know about me."
"Let's start with dinner, and than go from there. Maybe we can set up some date, or times to get together and do coffee."
Misty's emotions still churned but she tried to keep them at bay for now. She hoped this would work, and she wouldn't regret it. There had been to much of that already and she didn't want anymore of that. She just wanted to make things right again.
Feeling Tal's arm around her shoulder Ryan smiles a little looking at him. She was happy Tal was there but at the same time she felt kind of strange. Maybe thats why Alec wasn't. Feeling her phone vibrate in her pocket Ryan breaks away from Tal pulling it out.
Sorry babe wont be able to make it after all, maybe later after the race we can talk ok?
Alec wouldn't be there after all. That was a slight disappointment but maybe a good thing too.
Yeah that sounds good to be. I should be home around midnight.
Registering Tal's invitation Ryan slips her phone back into her pocket and looking at Tal once more. Shakes her head before replying.
"Sorry I wont be able tonight. Maybe tomorrow we can do lunch or something?"
Entering the shooting range Victoria takes a quick look around to make sure it was just them. If things went south she really didn't want other people to know, see or hear and have anything get out of hand more than it already might. At least this here was controlled and she was in charge.
Coming up to Aaron Victoria locks eyes with him for a long moment before saying anything. She studied him, wondered about him, wondered what he new, and what he wanted from her. She wouldn't give in though, or let anything slip that she didn't want too.
"Well aren't we quick to be asking questions. Fifteen minutes or not, I can always order whoever shows up away again and they will listen. So how about you start off with telling what secret you think you know about me."
8/8/15
Anything
Misty's apology caught Carson completely by surprise. He knew she was on an emotional rollercoaster, but hadn't expected this at all. He opened his mouth to reply, but stopped as she continued.
As she spoke, a new flutter of hope welled up in his heart. Was this really what she wanted? Was it something that would last, or when she felt better, would she change her mind? Did she really no longer want a divorce?
It was several silent moments before Carson realized he'd been staring into her eyes without responding. "Well, yes," he blurted. "I mean..." He blinked, trying to collect his rampant thoughts. He let her go and brought his hands up to gently cradle her face. "I will do anything.... anything, as long as there's even the slightest chance of a future with you."
His thumb caressed her cheek. "And none of this is your fault. It was me who started this whole thing. I know I did what I did because I was trying to protect you the best I knew how...but I was stupid. I never should have handled the Agency threat like I did - I never should have lied to you. If... If I hadn't made those choices... We'd probably still be a family and Alec would still be alive."
Yes...he blamed himself. This whole thing had started when he'd bent to the Agency's wishes instead of asking for help. Instead of trusting enough to let other people in.
He swallowed hard, keeping his emotions at bay. He could break down later, but not now. "I know you're in a dark place right now, and I am so sorry I can't fix things and make them right again. You never deserved to lose so much." He had to force himself not to think too long about his own losses right now, lest he find his own heart in a dark place.
"But you mean the world to me." He wiped away one of her tears with his hand. "And you always will, no matter what. So yes...whatever it takes...just tell me. Tell me what to do and I'll do it."
Tal gave Ryan a smile but couldn't help the funny feeling that it wasn't him who she wanted there. He followed her roving eyes, wondering who else she might be waiting for, but tried to shrug it off. "Well, I was getting lonely," he teased. "Besides, I don't have to work tomorrow, so I can afford a late night watching my girl race."
He sidled up to her to sling an arm around her shoulders and give her a squeeze. "Thought maybe we could do something afterward. Grab coffee...go for a moonlit drive...or go back to my place to occupy the couch..." He left the invitation hanging, unsure if she'd feel up to anything, but it was worth a try. He knew she'd had a hard day and just wanted to help her smile again.
Another round of shots rang out before Aaron reloaded his handgun. The property's shooting range was empty except for him - he'd ordered a guard and a trainee out, in order to have the privacy. If Victoria did have any information in Garret, it would be best not to have any listening ears at this point.
Movement caught the corner of his eye, and he holstered his gun. Right on time, as usual. He leaned on the guardrail, watching Victoria closely as she approached. There was little point in trying to read her though - she was too good at hiding her true emotions.
"We have fifteen minutes before anyone shows up again," he informed. "So...what do you know?"
As she spoke, a new flutter of hope welled up in his heart. Was this really what she wanted? Was it something that would last, or when she felt better, would she change her mind? Did she really no longer want a divorce?
It was several silent moments before Carson realized he'd been staring into her eyes without responding. "Well, yes," he blurted. "I mean..." He blinked, trying to collect his rampant thoughts. He let her go and brought his hands up to gently cradle her face. "I will do anything.... anything, as long as there's even the slightest chance of a future with you."
His thumb caressed her cheek. "And none of this is your fault. It was me who started this whole thing. I know I did what I did because I was trying to protect you the best I knew how...but I was stupid. I never should have handled the Agency threat like I did - I never should have lied to you. If... If I hadn't made those choices... We'd probably still be a family and Alec would still be alive."
Yes...he blamed himself. This whole thing had started when he'd bent to the Agency's wishes instead of asking for help. Instead of trusting enough to let other people in.
He swallowed hard, keeping his emotions at bay. He could break down later, but not now. "I know you're in a dark place right now, and I am so sorry I can't fix things and make them right again. You never deserved to lose so much." He had to force himself not to think too long about his own losses right now, lest he find his own heart in a dark place.
"But you mean the world to me." He wiped away one of her tears with his hand. "And you always will, no matter what. So yes...whatever it takes...just tell me. Tell me what to do and I'll do it."
Tal gave Ryan a smile but couldn't help the funny feeling that it wasn't him who she wanted there. He followed her roving eyes, wondering who else she might be waiting for, but tried to shrug it off. "Well, I was getting lonely," he teased. "Besides, I don't have to work tomorrow, so I can afford a late night watching my girl race."
He sidled up to her to sling an arm around her shoulders and give her a squeeze. "Thought maybe we could do something afterward. Grab coffee...go for a moonlit drive...or go back to my place to occupy the couch..." He left the invitation hanging, unsure if she'd feel up to anything, but it was worth a try. He knew she'd had a hard day and just wanted to help her smile again.
Another round of shots rang out before Aaron reloaded his handgun. The property's shooting range was empty except for him - he'd ordered a guard and a trainee out, in order to have the privacy. If Victoria did have any information in Garret, it would be best not to have any listening ears at this point.
Movement caught the corner of his eye, and he holstered his gun. Right on time, as usual. He leaned on the guardrail, watching Victoria closely as she approached. There was little point in trying to read her though - she was too good at hiding her true emotions.
"We have fifteen minutes before anyone shows up again," he informed. "So...what do you know?"
Slow
As Carson comes near her and wraps his arms around her Misty's stiffens a little before feeling the warmth, the strength that Carson always offered and just softened. She soaked in the comfort as more tears seemed to come. Everything had just been so much and it still weighed heavy on her mind.
"It's not ok. Everything is my fault, and I'm sorry. I'm....I'm sorry I blamed you for everything. I know you are at fault for somethings but not everything and I'm sorry. I just...I guess I just needed someone to blame and you were an easy target."
Taking in a long breath Misty's tears start to slow as she sniffles. Pulling away from Carson she can look him in the eyes and search his face. She wondered so many things, she felt so many different ways it was hard to tell what was up or down. But now was the best time as any to talk to him.
"Carson...I'm broken, beaten down, and damaged. I dont know how much good I'll be to anyone anymore, and I dont even know where life is going for me. But I do know I dont want things to be like they us to be with us. I don't want lies, and hidden motives, I just can't. I do know though I don't want a divorce anymore."
Still wondering how he'd react Misty is quick to keep talking before he can say anything else. She just wanted to get everything out before stopping and losing her train of though.
"I want time though, time to take it slow and work on things. Work on myself, work with you, after everything thats happened I cant just jump back into our relationship like nothing is wrong because there is a lot wrong, and a lot that needs to be fixed. Do you think...you can do that? Take it slow, and work our way back up?"
"It's not ok. Everything is my fault, and I'm sorry. I'm....I'm sorry I blamed you for everything. I know you are at fault for somethings but not everything and I'm sorry. I just...I guess I just needed someone to blame and you were an easy target."
Taking in a long breath Misty's tears start to slow as she sniffles. Pulling away from Carson she can look him in the eyes and search his face. She wondered so many things, she felt so many different ways it was hard to tell what was up or down. But now was the best time as any to talk to him.
"Carson...I'm broken, beaten down, and damaged. I dont know how much good I'll be to anyone anymore, and I dont even know where life is going for me. But I do know I dont want things to be like they us to be with us. I don't want lies, and hidden motives, I just can't. I do know though I don't want a divorce anymore."
Still wondering how he'd react Misty is quick to keep talking before he can say anything else. She just wanted to get everything out before stopping and losing her train of though.
"I want time though, time to take it slow and work on things. Work on myself, work with you, after everything thats happened I cant just jump back into our relationship like nothing is wrong because there is a lot wrong, and a lot that needs to be fixed. Do you think...you can do that? Take it slow, and work our way back up?"
Embrace
Being met at the door, Carson felt more awkward than he'd imagined he would. It all felt so wrong. This had been his home too. This was his wife. Yet he was an outsider.
A little grin came to his lips as he handed Misty the flowers. "Of course they're for you. I don't see any other pretty sheilas around." As soon as he'd said it, his eyes bounced another direction and he bit his tongue, hoping Misty wouldn't be put off by his quick flirting.
He cleared his throat and followed her inside to sit at the kitchen table as she worked. The awkwardness was just as bad, and the silence made it worse. There was so much he wanted to say, but so much of it, he couldn't dare. Not now. Not yet.
Suddenly seeing her fumble with the salad, then start crying, Carson's heart gave a leap. What should he do? He knew what he wanted to do, but would he just make things worse? Bypassing his fear, he got up and slowly went to her. He took her gently by the shoulders and turned her around to him before he wrapped his arms around her and just held her close to his chest.
"It's okay," he comforted softly. In this moment, all he cared about was her. Whether she ever took him back or not, he just wanted her to be happy again. He kissed the top of her head and just continued to hold her. "You're gonna be okay... I promise."
A little grin came to his lips as he handed Misty the flowers. "Of course they're for you. I don't see any other pretty sheilas around." As soon as he'd said it, his eyes bounced another direction and he bit his tongue, hoping Misty wouldn't be put off by his quick flirting.
He cleared his throat and followed her inside to sit at the kitchen table as she worked. The awkwardness was just as bad, and the silence made it worse. There was so much he wanted to say, but so much of it, he couldn't dare. Not now. Not yet.
Suddenly seeing her fumble with the salad, then start crying, Carson's heart gave a leap. What should he do? He knew what he wanted to do, but would he just make things worse? Bypassing his fear, he got up and slowly went to her. He took her gently by the shoulders and turned her around to him before he wrapped his arms around her and just held her close to his chest.
"It's okay," he comforted softly. In this moment, all he cared about was her. Whether she ever took him back or not, he just wanted her to be happy again. He kissed the top of her head and just continued to hold her. "You're gonna be okay... I promise."
BReak Down
Looking down at the paper that was slid across the table and reading what it said Victoria could feel her heart start to race. Did he really know her secret. The secret, between Garret and herself or was it something else? Victoria's first instinct was to make Aaron dead before anything could get out, or be held to bribe her. But what if it was something else, or what if someone was listing or even waiting for her reaction.
Shifting her weight and sitting down in one of the chairs no one would notice the panic she felt inside. Her eyes were like stone, and they stayed that way. She'd never give in or even give someone a reason to doubt her, but she needed to know how much Aaron new.
"There might be a few things I can check into. Since my grandfather trusted me a great deal I new more info, and intel than Garret himself."
Looking up at Aaron again Victoria's eyes flashed a warning. Between now, and when she'd talk to him again he'd better keep quiet or there would be a whole world of hurt that would come down on him. She could see to it, and make it happen in a heart beat.
"Meet me at the shooting range in an hour and I'll see what I've come up with and Aaron, come alone. The information I have is sensitive and I doubt my Grandfather would want it to get out to two many people."
Concluding the meeting Victoria got up and left. Not leading on to anything, not admitting to anything but being calm, cool, and collective as always. Her room was her next destination so she could use her computer. She hadn't thought till now to check Garret's aliases. If he had been taken than he might of used a clue to let her know he was in trouble or where he was. It was worth a shot, and a good way to get Aaron alone.
Almost any hour later Victoria leans back in her chair. Hans Schrader was the name she had pulled up on her computer. That was an alias that only she new Garret had, and he'd used it to get out of the country. Something was not right and she new it. Garret's mission had been here, but now he was in the US. She had a sicking feeling that The Elite was involved, and Garret was not there on his own free will.
Seeing the time Victoria gets up and changed into more appropriate clothing for going to the shooting range. Along with attaching her gun holster and putting her gun into it. Time to find out what Aaron really new and didn't know.
Walking around and scanning everyone Ryan didn't race for a least another fifteen minutes. She wondered if Alec was going to be there he had texted.Seeing Tal Ryan gives a little wave. He'd been wanting to hang out for days now and she felt bad for blowing him off but at the same time, she just didnt feel like it.
"Hey Tal, I didn't know you were going to be here tonight. Sorry I haven't called you back. Things have just been kind of all over the place!"
Ryan's eyes still scan the crowd. Maybe Alec wasn't coming or he got tied up. Maybe that was a good thing too since Tal was there. They never really did get along, and she didnt want a fight to break out here, and turn into something worse.
Hearing the knock on the door Misty leans against the counter for a long moment. She wasn't sure if she was ready to do this, but being alone in the house even if it was only for a few hours was already getting to her. Alec was everywhere, the preparations for the baby were every where. It was so hard.
Finally pushing off the counter Misty goes to the door taking a deep breath before opening it. Seeing Carson, a small smile comes but is soon good as she invites him in. It seemed strange inviting him in, even after all this time.
"Come on in. Thanks for agreeing to talk to me. Thank you for the flowers too, that is...if they are for me."
Heading into the kitchen to finish up the little bit of food she'd made Misty hoped Carson would follow. This was so awkward. She'd never felt like this around Carson before and she couldn't help but wonder if it would always be like this. Maybe it was just her or maybe it was just the situation.
Trying to work on the salad she had started to prepare Misty couldn't help her hands shake spilling the salad on the counter. She tried to contain her emotions but she just couldn't, not anymore. A tear rolled down her cheek as her shoulder shook. Holding on to the counter for stability. She didn't mean to cry in front of Carson or even break down at all, but it was so hard not too. She'd lost so much, and it was her own fault.
Shifting her weight and sitting down in one of the chairs no one would notice the panic she felt inside. Her eyes were like stone, and they stayed that way. She'd never give in or even give someone a reason to doubt her, but she needed to know how much Aaron new.
"There might be a few things I can check into. Since my grandfather trusted me a great deal I new more info, and intel than Garret himself."
Looking up at Aaron again Victoria's eyes flashed a warning. Between now, and when she'd talk to him again he'd better keep quiet or there would be a whole world of hurt that would come down on him. She could see to it, and make it happen in a heart beat.
"Meet me at the shooting range in an hour and I'll see what I've come up with and Aaron, come alone. The information I have is sensitive and I doubt my Grandfather would want it to get out to two many people."
Concluding the meeting Victoria got up and left. Not leading on to anything, not admitting to anything but being calm, cool, and collective as always. Her room was her next destination so she could use her computer. She hadn't thought till now to check Garret's aliases. If he had been taken than he might of used a clue to let her know he was in trouble or where he was. It was worth a shot, and a good way to get Aaron alone.
Almost any hour later Victoria leans back in her chair. Hans Schrader was the name she had pulled up on her computer. That was an alias that only she new Garret had, and he'd used it to get out of the country. Something was not right and she new it. Garret's mission had been here, but now he was in the US. She had a sicking feeling that The Elite was involved, and Garret was not there on his own free will.
Seeing the time Victoria gets up and changed into more appropriate clothing for going to the shooting range. Along with attaching her gun holster and putting her gun into it. Time to find out what Aaron really new and didn't know.
Walking around and scanning everyone Ryan didn't race for a least another fifteen minutes. She wondered if Alec was going to be there he had texted.Seeing Tal Ryan gives a little wave. He'd been wanting to hang out for days now and she felt bad for blowing him off but at the same time, she just didnt feel like it.
"Hey Tal, I didn't know you were going to be here tonight. Sorry I haven't called you back. Things have just been kind of all over the place!"
Ryan's eyes still scan the crowd. Maybe Alec wasn't coming or he got tied up. Maybe that was a good thing too since Tal was there. They never really did get along, and she didnt want a fight to break out here, and turn into something worse.
Hearing the knock on the door Misty leans against the counter for a long moment. She wasn't sure if she was ready to do this, but being alone in the house even if it was only for a few hours was already getting to her. Alec was everywhere, the preparations for the baby were every where. It was so hard.
Finally pushing off the counter Misty goes to the door taking a deep breath before opening it. Seeing Carson, a small smile comes but is soon good as she invites him in. It seemed strange inviting him in, even after all this time.
"Come on in. Thanks for agreeing to talk to me. Thank you for the flowers too, that is...if they are for me."
Heading into the kitchen to finish up the little bit of food she'd made Misty hoped Carson would follow. This was so awkward. She'd never felt like this around Carson before and she couldn't help but wonder if it would always be like this. Maybe it was just her or maybe it was just the situation.
Trying to work on the salad she had started to prepare Misty couldn't help her hands shake spilling the salad on the counter. She tried to contain her emotions but she just couldn't, not anymore. A tear rolled down her cheek as her shoulder shook. Holding on to the counter for stability. She didn't mean to cry in front of Carson or even break down at all, but it was so hard not too. She'd lost so much, and it was her own fault.
8/4/15
Secret
There was only one part of Misty's invitation that Carson heard - she was actually going to let him come over to the house. It was hard to believe it was true. Again, he wondered if this was a step forward, or just a cruel beginning to an even harder fall. But he couldn't pass up the opportunity to go, even if the hope was slim. "Food is overrated." He gave her half a smile. "I'll be there at six."
As the service came to a close, he was reluctant to let go of Misty's hand, but he forced himself to. After all he'd done to try and win her back, every attempt had failed miserably. He couldn't keep pushing, and he had to let her be in control, even if it was hard.
Saying goodbye to her and to others, including Mackenzie, was brief. The day had to go on. No matter the pain of losing Alec, the world would not stop turning...
...It was six o'clock on the nose. The hours of the day had seemed to drag by, at least for Carson. Caught between sorrow of loss, and hope for the future, his emotions were making his stomach turn. But it wouldn't dictate his choices. And his one choice right now was to see Misty and discover what was in store.
It was odd ringing the doorbell, but he did. Standing on the steps, he waited for Misty to answer the door. Though he'd cleaned up for the graveside service, he'd made sure later that he was clean shaven, his clothes were neat, and maybe he'd even put on just a little of the colone he knew Misty liked...just maybe. And now in his hand was a small bouquet of mixed flowers.
Eli wished he could do more for his sister, but it was obvious that, for now, she was just going to have to work through things on her own. Nevertheless, he would be keeping a close eye on her...
The day moved on and turned to evening. And outside city limits, the usual crowd gathered to party around the desert races. Eli hadn't been all that keen on letting Ryan out of his sight, but he'd had an errand to run, then had promised Scarlet a date. At least he knew Tal would be there.
And he was. Arriving later than most of the crowd, Tal wound his way through the people. It wasn't really his idea of an ideal evening, but after not getting Ryan to go out with him for several days in a row, he'd take what he could get. He knew she was going through a rough time, but it felt like she was suddenly keeping him at arm's length, and that wasn't a good feeling.
Making it to the edge of the crowd, he scanned the area for Ryan, unsure if she'd raced yet or not.
Aaron straightened and folded his arms as he watched Victoria pace. His eyes met her with just as much searching. Just as much distrust.
"I have no other information," he stated flatly. Security cameras peered at them from the upper corner of the room. Aaron grabbed a pen and paper and scribbled as he spoke. "I'm just trying to find a connection between Garret's recent negligence, and his disappearance." He slid the paper across the table where the camera wouldn't be able to pick up details. He had written, "I know your secret."
"You've got the best instinct around, when it comes to a hunt. I just thought you might have an idea we hadn't thought of yet." His eyes locked with hers again. "So...do you?"
As the service came to a close, he was reluctant to let go of Misty's hand, but he forced himself to. After all he'd done to try and win her back, every attempt had failed miserably. He couldn't keep pushing, and he had to let her be in control, even if it was hard.
Saying goodbye to her and to others, including Mackenzie, was brief. The day had to go on. No matter the pain of losing Alec, the world would not stop turning...
...It was six o'clock on the nose. The hours of the day had seemed to drag by, at least for Carson. Caught between sorrow of loss, and hope for the future, his emotions were making his stomach turn. But it wouldn't dictate his choices. And his one choice right now was to see Misty and discover what was in store.
It was odd ringing the doorbell, but he did. Standing on the steps, he waited for Misty to answer the door. Though he'd cleaned up for the graveside service, he'd made sure later that he was clean shaven, his clothes were neat, and maybe he'd even put on just a little of the colone he knew Misty liked...just maybe. And now in his hand was a small bouquet of mixed flowers.
Eli wished he could do more for his sister, but it was obvious that, for now, she was just going to have to work through things on her own. Nevertheless, he would be keeping a close eye on her...
The day moved on and turned to evening. And outside city limits, the usual crowd gathered to party around the desert races. Eli hadn't been all that keen on letting Ryan out of his sight, but he'd had an errand to run, then had promised Scarlet a date. At least he knew Tal would be there.
And he was. Arriving later than most of the crowd, Tal wound his way through the people. It wasn't really his idea of an ideal evening, but after not getting Ryan to go out with him for several days in a row, he'd take what he could get. He knew she was going through a rough time, but it felt like she was suddenly keeping him at arm's length, and that wasn't a good feeling.
Making it to the edge of the crowd, he scanned the area for Ryan, unsure if she'd raced yet or not.
Aaron straightened and folded his arms as he watched Victoria pace. His eyes met her with just as much searching. Just as much distrust.
"I have no other information," he stated flatly. Security cameras peered at them from the upper corner of the room. Aaron grabbed a pen and paper and scribbled as he spoke. "I'm just trying to find a connection between Garret's recent negligence, and his disappearance." He slid the paper across the table where the camera wouldn't be able to pick up details. He had written, "I know your secret."
"You've got the best instinct around, when it comes to a hunt. I just thought you might have an idea we hadn't thought of yet." His eyes locked with hers again. "So...do you?"
Beating
Misty lets out a small shaky sign. Tonight she'd be going back home, so really any time would be ok. But she didn't know if she wanted everything to sink in before she talked to Carson or just do it right away. Maybe it would be best to just do it right away.
"I'll be home tonight if you want to come over around six. I have coffee, but I probley wont feel much like eating so you might just want to get something on your way over."
Hey apatite was slim now, and she only took a few bits of food every day at the hospital. She just was having a hard time keeping anything down after everything happened. That wasn't going to change any time soon either. She had a lot to do at home, and it was going to be hard.
Getting into the car next to Eli Ryan just turns slightly to lean her head against the car seat and look out the window. She felt emotionally and fiscally drained from today events. She really didn't know where to bring her head anymore, or how to clear the fog she felt. Everyone really did seem like they missed Alec, but at the same time he wasn't really gone. So what was going on?
Just continuing to watch the stars twinkle Stacy felt a warmth spread through her at Eric's words. He made her feel so good, and so loved. She'd never tire of it, and never tired of the safty she felt. It was nice relying on someone else to feel that.
"I don't want to but I should probley make my last round for the night. Care to join me?"
Sitting in the chair across from Aaron Victoria crossed her arms as she listened and the wheels in her head turned. She had a haunting sicking feeling that something really was wrong. It was hard to imagine that Garret would let that happen but if he really had been messing up. His words came back to her and she gave a shiver before abruptly standing and starting to pace the floor much like her grandfather would be when he was thinking as well.
Looking up at Aaron again she searches his eyes. Piercing deep wondering, thinking, trying to find anything that is under the hidden lines of his words. Something was off, something was not right and she wondered if Aaron new that. Was he fishing, maybe she was just being paranoid but she didn't like it.
"You know something more Aaron that your not telling me. What is it or I'll beat it out of you."
"I'll be home tonight if you want to come over around six. I have coffee, but I probley wont feel much like eating so you might just want to get something on your way over."
Hey apatite was slim now, and she only took a few bits of food every day at the hospital. She just was having a hard time keeping anything down after everything happened. That wasn't going to change any time soon either. She had a lot to do at home, and it was going to be hard.
Getting into the car next to Eli Ryan just turns slightly to lean her head against the car seat and look out the window. She felt emotionally and fiscally drained from today events. She really didn't know where to bring her head anymore, or how to clear the fog she felt. Everyone really did seem like they missed Alec, but at the same time he wasn't really gone. So what was going on?
Just continuing to watch the stars twinkle Stacy felt a warmth spread through her at Eric's words. He made her feel so good, and so loved. She'd never tire of it, and never tired of the safty she felt. It was nice relying on someone else to feel that.
"I don't want to but I should probley make my last round for the night. Care to join me?"
Sitting in the chair across from Aaron Victoria crossed her arms as she listened and the wheels in her head turned. She had a haunting sicking feeling that something really was wrong. It was hard to imagine that Garret would let that happen but if he really had been messing up. His words came back to her and she gave a shiver before abruptly standing and starting to pace the floor much like her grandfather would be when he was thinking as well.
Looking up at Aaron again she searches his eyes. Piercing deep wondering, thinking, trying to find anything that is under the hidden lines of his words. Something was off, something was not right and she wondered if Aaron new that. Was he fishing, maybe she was just being paranoid but she didn't like it.
"You know something more Aaron that your not telling me. What is it or I'll beat it out of you."
7/28/15
I'll be there...
Carson's emotional eyes quickly shifted to Misty as he caught her gaze for the first time today. She
was willing to talk? To him? Would it be something good? Would it bring
hope? Or did she want to tell him for the last time that she never
wanted him back in her life? He wasn't sure his heart could take it if
that's what this was about. But...he couldn't say no and then be left
wondering if he would have had a chance at catching even a small sliver
of her heart once again. That's all he wanted. Just a tiny glimmer of
hope. And he was at her mercy.
He squeezed her hand again and gave her a little nod. "Just say when and where," he whispered back. "And I'll be there."
Mackenzie, still under Carson's other arm, shifted just enough to spy their hands being held. She glanced over at Justin with a expression of wonderment.
He pursed his lips and shook his head ever so slightly, warning her not to get her hopes up too high. She leaned her head into her dad, nonetheless, daring to hope just a little. Without Alec, she wasn't sure she'd even see Misty at all anymore. But if Misty and her dad got back together, she'd get to see them both, for sure. She wouldn't say anything, though. That would be too much hope.
Pretending? Eli's brow furrowed at his sister's comment. What were people pretending? He simply nodded. "Yeah...yeah I'll take you home."
He opened the driver's door and slid in behind the wheel, waiting to start the engine until Ryan had joined him. "I know it may seem like people are pretending to have cared about Alec..." He assumed that's what Ryan had been talking about. "But I think they're genuine, even if Alec didn't have too many close friends. I hope you don't think I'm pretending, 'cause I really do feel badly."
"Hmm?" Reese's mind was already far away. "Oh. Just a few things I need to sort out." He pursed his lips grimly. "Things are going to change. A lot. And I can't tell if it's for the better or not."
He sighed, but managed a smile of apology. He knew he was being vague. "How about you start supper and that'll keep me from staying at the office too long. I may need to talk a few things over with you though. I can't decide the fate of the Elite on my own."
Eric grinned. "Mmm, you're right about that." He had no clue what the future would hold or where he and Stacy were actually headed, but he was happy to wait and see what God had in store.
He leaned in again to kiss her once more, this time on the lips where he let it linger for several long moments. It wasn't often they had much time alone, unless finding each other in places like this when everyone else was distracted by wrapping things up for the evening.
Just letting himself enjoy these few minutes, he finally retreated slowly, his eyes shining in the soft evening light. "I used to say my heart lived on the road," he mused softly. "But... I think its home is elsewhere now."
"He botched up more cases lately than Medridge ever got wind of." An armed lookout agent, Aaron, leaned his elbows on the table in the grand meeting room as he looked across at Victoria. He'd asked to speak with her that evening, about Garret's mysterious disappearance.
"I don't know what Garret's problem has been, but whatever it is, I won't be surprised to find out he's been taken by an enemy. I never would have said that a year ago, but lately...yeah." He cocked his head to study Victoria. Did he know more than he led on? "Did he ever say anything to you about any of his jobs being more risky than others? We've got nothing to go on. Even his tracking device went offline, so whoever has him, they knew he had the implant and knew to take it out. That implies it's someone close to operations but we can't pinpoint anything. If you've got any ideas, feel free to jump in any time."
He squeezed her hand again and gave her a little nod. "Just say when and where," he whispered back. "And I'll be there."
Mackenzie, still under Carson's other arm, shifted just enough to spy their hands being held. She glanced over at Justin with a expression of wonderment.
He pursed his lips and shook his head ever so slightly, warning her not to get her hopes up too high. She leaned her head into her dad, nonetheless, daring to hope just a little. Without Alec, she wasn't sure she'd even see Misty at all anymore. But if Misty and her dad got back together, she'd get to see them both, for sure. She wouldn't say anything, though. That would be too much hope.
Pretending? Eli's brow furrowed at his sister's comment. What were people pretending? He simply nodded. "Yeah...yeah I'll take you home."
He opened the driver's door and slid in behind the wheel, waiting to start the engine until Ryan had joined him. "I know it may seem like people are pretending to have cared about Alec..." He assumed that's what Ryan had been talking about. "But I think they're genuine, even if Alec didn't have too many close friends. I hope you don't think I'm pretending, 'cause I really do feel badly."
"Hmm?" Reese's mind was already far away. "Oh. Just a few things I need to sort out." He pursed his lips grimly. "Things are going to change. A lot. And I can't tell if it's for the better or not."
He sighed, but managed a smile of apology. He knew he was being vague. "How about you start supper and that'll keep me from staying at the office too long. I may need to talk a few things over with you though. I can't decide the fate of the Elite on my own."
Eric grinned. "Mmm, you're right about that." He had no clue what the future would hold or where he and Stacy were actually headed, but he was happy to wait and see what God had in store.
He leaned in again to kiss her once more, this time on the lips where he let it linger for several long moments. It wasn't often they had much time alone, unless finding each other in places like this when everyone else was distracted by wrapping things up for the evening.
Just letting himself enjoy these few minutes, he finally retreated slowly, his eyes shining in the soft evening light. "I used to say my heart lived on the road," he mused softly. "But... I think its home is elsewhere now."
"He botched up more cases lately than Medridge ever got wind of." An armed lookout agent, Aaron, leaned his elbows on the table in the grand meeting room as he looked across at Victoria. He'd asked to speak with her that evening, about Garret's mysterious disappearance.
"I don't know what Garret's problem has been, but whatever it is, I won't be surprised to find out he's been taken by an enemy. I never would have said that a year ago, but lately...yeah." He cocked his head to study Victoria. Did he know more than he led on? "Did he ever say anything to you about any of his jobs being more risky than others? We've got nothing to go on. Even his tracking device went offline, so whoever has him, they knew he had the implant and knew to take it out. That implies it's someone close to operations but we can't pinpoint anything. If you've got any ideas, feel free to jump in any time."
7/27/15
Coffee
"I'm not sure how you did, I am pretty amazing after all."
Stacy gives a small smile as her eyes dance. Eric wasn't only the lucky one, she was too. She'd all but given up hope that she would find anymore to spend her life with and figured it would just be the girls together. But than out of no where she life changed, and it changed for the best.
Looking over her shoulder at Eli Ryan gives her head a shake as a tear ran down her cheek. No she wasn't ok, she wasn't ok with this whole thing at all. But it seemed so hard to try and express how she felt.
"No I'm not ok, once this all blows over and people can stop pretending."
She hated feeling like this. Angry, sad, confused it made her head hurt more and more. But no one would understand not even her big brother and it hurt.
Looking out across the vast field Ryan shuttered a little. Maybe tonight she'd race. That always cleared her head and helped her think better. She'd figure something out to get through this, she just had to so she and Alec could be together again.
"Can we just go home now? I dont want to be here anymore."
Just holding Carson's hand reminded Misty about how much she really did miss it. After all they had been through, after all her hateful words to him there was still something there, and holding his hand proved that. She could fell it still even if she wanted to deny it. Looking at Carson again and searching his face Misty's eyes just lingered before there was a slight lull and she whispered to him.
"Do you want to get coffee tonight...and...maybe....talk?"
Maybe Misty owed Carson that at least to hear him out. They'd lost so much already if anything else happened and they hadn't cleared the air...Misty didn't know if she'd be able to take it. So many things had happened, and she was so....so angry at Carson, but she wasn't sure if she really was mad, or blamed him anymore.
Angelica cocks her head at Reese for a long moment. She wasn't sure what he was talking about preparing, or what he might want to do at the office today. Everything was hitting everybody hard, and Angelica only worried a little but still she wasn't sure with so many emotions floating about how people might react out of hast.
"What did you need to prepare? Did you want me to come with you or go home and start dinner?"
Though they hadn't been married for long Angelica fit into the house wife roll nicely. Nicer and faster than she thought she would. Even though she still had her stongwilled ways, and didn't always agree with Reese she was really enjoying being married to him.
Leaning against the wall in the hall way Victoria let out a long breath. Garret was gone and they still couldn't find him. Where was he? She worried, and a little more than normal the words from the ball still ringing in her ear. Had he found something? Was he taken? Would he ever be back? So many things went through her mind. She wanted to go find him, but now she was grounded from going anywhere. But still she had to do something, and than many convince her grandfather go...this couldn't be the last time she'd ever see her love.
Stacy gives a small smile as her eyes dance. Eric wasn't only the lucky one, she was too. She'd all but given up hope that she would find anymore to spend her life with and figured it would just be the girls together. But than out of no where she life changed, and it changed for the best.
Looking over her shoulder at Eli Ryan gives her head a shake as a tear ran down her cheek. No she wasn't ok, she wasn't ok with this whole thing at all. But it seemed so hard to try and express how she felt.
"No I'm not ok, once this all blows over and people can stop pretending."
She hated feeling like this. Angry, sad, confused it made her head hurt more and more. But no one would understand not even her big brother and it hurt.
Looking out across the vast field Ryan shuttered a little. Maybe tonight she'd race. That always cleared her head and helped her think better. She'd figure something out to get through this, she just had to so she and Alec could be together again.
"Can we just go home now? I dont want to be here anymore."
Just holding Carson's hand reminded Misty about how much she really did miss it. After all they had been through, after all her hateful words to him there was still something there, and holding his hand proved that. She could fell it still even if she wanted to deny it. Looking at Carson again and searching his face Misty's eyes just lingered before there was a slight lull and she whispered to him.
"Do you want to get coffee tonight...and...maybe....talk?"
Maybe Misty owed Carson that at least to hear him out. They'd lost so much already if anything else happened and they hadn't cleared the air...Misty didn't know if she'd be able to take it. So many things had happened, and she was so....so angry at Carson, but she wasn't sure if she really was mad, or blamed him anymore.
Angelica cocks her head at Reese for a long moment. She wasn't sure what he was talking about preparing, or what he might want to do at the office today. Everything was hitting everybody hard, and Angelica only worried a little but still she wasn't sure with so many emotions floating about how people might react out of hast.
"What did you need to prepare? Did you want me to come with you or go home and start dinner?"
Though they hadn't been married for long Angelica fit into the house wife roll nicely. Nicer and faster than she thought she would. Even though she still had her stongwilled ways, and didn't always agree with Reese she was really enjoying being married to him.
Leaning against the wall in the hall way Victoria let out a long breath. Garret was gone and they still couldn't find him. Where was he? She worried, and a little more than normal the words from the ball still ringing in her ear. Had he found something? Was he taken? Would he ever be back? So many things went through her mind. She wanted to go find him, but now she was grounded from going anywhere. But still she had to do something, and than many convince her grandfather go...this couldn't be the last time she'd ever see her love.
7/22/15
Uncommon Tears
What had Eric done to deserve someone like Stacy who was so understanding and gracious? He’d never know. “Thanks for believing in me. It means a lot.”
Even so, he still had some tough choices to make. Whether or not Stacy and Ashlee understood why he had to be on the road, being gone too much would eventually put much undo strain on their relationship. How was he supposed to find the balance?
He gave Stacy a squeeze before leaning in to plant a soft kiss on her cheek. “How did I survive this long without you around, hmm?”
Eli glanced over his shoulder as his sister walked away. He knew this must be hard on her…perhaps harder than he even realized. He’d often wondered about her feelings towards Alec. Had she ever really gotten over him? She’d sent him away more than once, told him, “no” flat-out, and had stuck with Tal, despite Alec’s interferences. But deep down…would one find she still had love for the man who had caused so much grief? Eli had known for some time, in his heart of hearts, that Ryan still had a certain love for Alec. Was it that love now, that made this so much more difficult? He could only wonder. And he wished the past had not been so marred by so many bad choices. He wished he would have known only the side of Alec that deserved friendship and respect. Perhaps he’d have better feelings how, had it been that way before.
As soon as he deemed it appropriate, Eli slipped away from the others and joined Ryan at the car. “Hey…” He came up slowly behind her. “You okay?”
The last thing Carson ever expected was to feel Misty take his hand. It was as if an electrical current surged all the way up his arm, and it took all he had not to jump in surprise. Was she…really touching him? He glanced down, almost thinking it had to be his imagination. But it was real. And oh, how much he wanted to just remember the way her touch felt. Was this a sign of a brighter future? Was it just a formal gesture in light of this tragedy? Did it mean nothing more than a public display of respect? Or…did it mean there was still a glimmer of hope?
Ever so gently, he returned a squeeze to her hand, and just continued to hold it. His arms ached to hold her. Hug her. His lips longed to kiss her. Those very feelings drove him near the brink of insanity nearly every day. Did she realize how much torture this was, to be so close, yet so far away?
Even so, he simply held her hand and forced his eyes forward to the last part of the service. He would ask nothing of her, and would not even speak to her unless she spoke first. Yes, it was torture. But he knew now that pushing only drove her further away. Silence and patience were the only things left now that he had to offer.
No one would hear his voice quake, or see his shoulders shake. He would not even blink. For he knew too well how to control his emotions. But even so, this day was too much, even for him. And the streams of tears made their way silently down his face – the only sign of his anguished heart.
As the brief service came to a close, Reese sighed and glanced at Angelica. “I had hoped I’d have Alec as an agent again one day,” he admitted. “I wanted so badly for him to succeed. I never can help but feel somewhat responsible. I know I shouldn’t, but I do. This is all just… such a waste.”
He fished his keys from his pocket. “I’m gonna let be whoever needs to stay, and go back to the office for a while. I have a feeling I’m going to need to prepare something I’ve been considering for a long time now.”
“Five days! This is unacceptable!” Medridge rapped his cane on his desk rather than swinging it at his unemotional agent. Five days ago, Garret had been scheduled to return to the estate. But he never had come. No word. No sign. He had simply vanished.
“I’m sorry, Sir. We started at Sonya’s estate, but quickly lost his trail. But his abandoned vehicle would make us lean towards the possibility that he was abducted.”
“But by whom?! Who would take him? Which of my enemies would dare take my right hand man without so much as a bargain for money or power? It doesn’t make any sense!”
The agent shifted his weight as he tried to come up with an answer. “Perhaps whoever it is, is trying to make you nervous. It feels like a power play to me, if I may say so, Sir. If they wanted to make a point, they would have killed Garret and sent you his body. But if they wanted a bargaining chip, they would hold him until they knew you were upset enough to buy him back.”
Medridge scoffed and sat down behind his desk. “And when we find them, they shall pay dearly for such an act of rebellion. Keep searching. But keep top agents here, and that includes Victoria. I do not want anyone thinking they can steal all the aces from my hand. No…no, they shall not.”
Even so, he still had some tough choices to make. Whether or not Stacy and Ashlee understood why he had to be on the road, being gone too much would eventually put much undo strain on their relationship. How was he supposed to find the balance?
He gave Stacy a squeeze before leaning in to plant a soft kiss on her cheek. “How did I survive this long without you around, hmm?”
Eli glanced over his shoulder as his sister walked away. He knew this must be hard on her…perhaps harder than he even realized. He’d often wondered about her feelings towards Alec. Had she ever really gotten over him? She’d sent him away more than once, told him, “no” flat-out, and had stuck with Tal, despite Alec’s interferences. But deep down…would one find she still had love for the man who had caused so much grief? Eli had known for some time, in his heart of hearts, that Ryan still had a certain love for Alec. Was it that love now, that made this so much more difficult? He could only wonder. And he wished the past had not been so marred by so many bad choices. He wished he would have known only the side of Alec that deserved friendship and respect. Perhaps he’d have better feelings how, had it been that way before.
As soon as he deemed it appropriate, Eli slipped away from the others and joined Ryan at the car. “Hey…” He came up slowly behind her. “You okay?”
The last thing Carson ever expected was to feel Misty take his hand. It was as if an electrical current surged all the way up his arm, and it took all he had not to jump in surprise. Was she…really touching him? He glanced down, almost thinking it had to be his imagination. But it was real. And oh, how much he wanted to just remember the way her touch felt. Was this a sign of a brighter future? Was it just a formal gesture in light of this tragedy? Did it mean nothing more than a public display of respect? Or…did it mean there was still a glimmer of hope?
Ever so gently, he returned a squeeze to her hand, and just continued to hold it. His arms ached to hold her. Hug her. His lips longed to kiss her. Those very feelings drove him near the brink of insanity nearly every day. Did she realize how much torture this was, to be so close, yet so far away?
Even so, he simply held her hand and forced his eyes forward to the last part of the service. He would ask nothing of her, and would not even speak to her unless she spoke first. Yes, it was torture. But he knew now that pushing only drove her further away. Silence and patience were the only things left now that he had to offer.
No one would hear his voice quake, or see his shoulders shake. He would not even blink. For he knew too well how to control his emotions. But even so, this day was too much, even for him. And the streams of tears made their way silently down his face – the only sign of his anguished heart.
As the brief service came to a close, Reese sighed and glanced at Angelica. “I had hoped I’d have Alec as an agent again one day,” he admitted. “I wanted so badly for him to succeed. I never can help but feel somewhat responsible. I know I shouldn’t, but I do. This is all just… such a waste.”
He fished his keys from his pocket. “I’m gonna let be whoever needs to stay, and go back to the office for a while. I have a feeling I’m going to need to prepare something I’ve been considering for a long time now.”
“Five days! This is unacceptable!” Medridge rapped his cane on his desk rather than swinging it at his unemotional agent. Five days ago, Garret had been scheduled to return to the estate. But he never had come. No word. No sign. He had simply vanished.
“I’m sorry, Sir. We started at Sonya’s estate, but quickly lost his trail. But his abandoned vehicle would make us lean towards the possibility that he was abducted.”
“But by whom?! Who would take him? Which of my enemies would dare take my right hand man without so much as a bargain for money or power? It doesn’t make any sense!”
The agent shifted his weight as he tried to come up with an answer. “Perhaps whoever it is, is trying to make you nervous. It feels like a power play to me, if I may say so, Sir. If they wanted to make a point, they would have killed Garret and sent you his body. But if they wanted a bargaining chip, they would hold him until they knew you were upset enough to buy him back.”
Medridge scoffed and sat down behind his desk. “And when we find them, they shall pay dearly for such an act of rebellion. Keep searching. But keep top agents here, and that includes Victoria. I do not want anyone thinking they can steal all the aces from my hand. No…no, they shall not.”
Comfort
Sitting down Ryan felt so uncomfortable being there. There were not many people but there were enough to make her wonder a little more why someone would still go to this length. She tried to stop her mind from thinking and just sit there. Listening, hearing the soft weeping, Carson's speech...it all her could not to laugh or stand up and tell people they needed to stop pretending he was dead. Death wasn't funny, it wasn't funny at all.
Taking about as much as she could Ryan finally got up and made her way to the car. She just couldn't take it anymore. A tear rolled down her cheek more from anger than sadness. Why did it have to be like this, why couldn't they just forgive Alec and move on.
Giving a small smile to Gage Sapphire nodded. She didn't mind if he sat with her at all and it was better than sitting alone. She would guess Scott would not be coming so at least her had someone there.
"Thanks for coming. I really wasn't looking forward to doing this alone."
Looking over and seeing Mackenzie Misty's heart hurt a little more. She new what she was going though but could only wonder if it was one hundred time worse for a young girl. Harder to understand, and accept.
Leaning over for just a moment Misty takes Mackenzie's hand in her own and gives it a small squeeze. She didn't say anything and she new it was not much, but maybe it would bring a little comfort to them both.
As Carson starts his bit he had to say Misty leans back over to her side and just listens as a few tears roll down her cheek. Alec really was gone and this was just the confirmation. It was hard to swallow, and if Misty new anything this was the part that started the healing, but it still didn't make it any better.
As Carson closed and came to sat down next to her, and Mackenzie she didn't feel awkward. This was not the time and place for that. She could feel how sad Carson really was and the small tear that maybe no one else noticed she did. This hard to be hard on him too, no matter the reason, the out come this was his family, his brother who had just passes away.
Without hesitation Misty takes Carson's hand in her own and gives it a reassuring squeeze. She wasn't putting anything more into it than should be, nor did she know what this meant for there future But Carson needed someone to right now, and he had no one. It was the least she could do.
As Eric puts his arms around her Stacy she snuggled in even closer. The warmth of a mans arms around her felt nice, it made her feel safe and protected, Eric was so good at all of those how could she not be happy.
"Ashlee told me about the conversation she had with you. I feel so silly being her mother and not knowing thats what was bothering her. If I had known I would of tried to help, but at least she did finally talking to you could her."
Running her hand up and down Eric's arm Stacy is silent for a long moment. She couldn't say she liked that Eric was gone for so long at a time but she new why he did it, and he did it for his family, and everyone else at the Ranch. She couldn't buck that, or even had a bad thing to say about it. It was really honorable he sacrificed so much for his family.
"I don't like when you have to go away, but I know why you do it and because of that Ashlee and I will always be here when you return. You're not running away, or trying to get away from us...your working. I think she and I both understand that now. I have all the faith in the world that you will always return to us."
Looking up at Eric Stacy smiles as the light from the moon dances shadows on across her face. What she and Eric had was special and she new that. Something about it was just different like nothing else she'd had before. It was not something she'd be giving up that easily at all.
Taking about as much as she could Ryan finally got up and made her way to the car. She just couldn't take it anymore. A tear rolled down her cheek more from anger than sadness. Why did it have to be like this, why couldn't they just forgive Alec and move on.
Giving a small smile to Gage Sapphire nodded. She didn't mind if he sat with her at all and it was better than sitting alone. She would guess Scott would not be coming so at least her had someone there.
"Thanks for coming. I really wasn't looking forward to doing this alone."
Looking over and seeing Mackenzie Misty's heart hurt a little more. She new what she was going though but could only wonder if it was one hundred time worse for a young girl. Harder to understand, and accept.
Leaning over for just a moment Misty takes Mackenzie's hand in her own and gives it a small squeeze. She didn't say anything and she new it was not much, but maybe it would bring a little comfort to them both.
As Carson starts his bit he had to say Misty leans back over to her side and just listens as a few tears roll down her cheek. Alec really was gone and this was just the confirmation. It was hard to swallow, and if Misty new anything this was the part that started the healing, but it still didn't make it any better.
As Carson closed and came to sat down next to her, and Mackenzie she didn't feel awkward. This was not the time and place for that. She could feel how sad Carson really was and the small tear that maybe no one else noticed she did. This hard to be hard on him too, no matter the reason, the out come this was his family, his brother who had just passes away.
Without hesitation Misty takes Carson's hand in her own and gives it a reassuring squeeze. She wasn't putting anything more into it than should be, nor did she know what this meant for there future But Carson needed someone to right now, and he had no one. It was the least she could do.
As Eric puts his arms around her Stacy she snuggled in even closer. The warmth of a mans arms around her felt nice, it made her feel safe and protected, Eric was so good at all of those how could she not be happy.
"Ashlee told me about the conversation she had with you. I feel so silly being her mother and not knowing thats what was bothering her. If I had known I would of tried to help, but at least she did finally talking to you could her."
Running her hand up and down Eric's arm Stacy is silent for a long moment. She couldn't say she liked that Eric was gone for so long at a time but she new why he did it, and he did it for his family, and everyone else at the Ranch. She couldn't buck that, or even had a bad thing to say about it. It was really honorable he sacrificed so much for his family.
"I don't like when you have to go away, but I know why you do it and because of that Ashlee and I will always be here when you return. You're not running away, or trying to get away from us...your working. I think she and I both understand that now. I have all the faith in the world that you will always return to us."
Looking up at Eric Stacy smiles as the light from the moon dances shadows on across her face. What she and Eric had was special and she new that. Something about it was just different like nothing else she'd had before. It was not something she'd be giving up that easily at all.
Sacrifice
Seeing Ryan, Eli couldn't help a bit of a smile. "You look nice." He meant it. It was rare that Ryan would dress up for any occasion, but when she did, she always looked good.
The ride to the cemetery was quiet, and Eli left Ryan with her own thoughts, and himself with his own. There wasn't much to say anyway... a part of their life had ended, and they would move on. It's just the way the world worked.
Once at the cemetery, Eli walked with his sister to where there were chairs set up for just a small gathering. There weren't a whole lot of people there...which wasn't surprising. Alec hadn't really had a broad social life aside from close family and a few friends. That was about it, in addition to a handful of Elite agents who came more out of respect than friendship.
Arriving with Misty, Jason's heart still hurt. More for her than anyone, and he wished he could just make it all better. He wished all the pain would just go away. Why did things like this have to happen? And why now? Not that any time would have been good, but with all Misty had ever been through, it just felt even more unfair.
He gave Misty an encouraging nod before they headed to where the other people where, and found them both seats. Maybe things had been strained between them, but he chose to sit next to her anyway - as the friend he would always try to be. There was a strange tension because of Carson's presence, but it couldn't be helped, and no one would forfeit being there just to avoid that awkwardness - Jason included.
Mackenzie settled in near Misty, daring to throw her a couple glances, though a smile didn't appear. She missed seeing Misty and hadn't seen her at all lately. She'd been told what had happened, and knew now there would be no baby brother or sister. It had hurt, and now she'd lost her uncle, too.
Her gaze dropped, and she paid little attention when Justin sat next to her. Some girls her age might rely on him for a hug or a shoulder to rest her head on. But she would remain reserved and withdrawn - it was the way she'd taught herself to survive.
"Hey." Gage had quietly come up behind Sapphire to lay a hand on her shoulder. This whole atmosphere felt strange to him. Many people were here not because they'd been close to Alec, but simply because they respected his last act. For Gage, it was a little of both. He hadn't been great friends with Alec, but they'd gotten along okay as of late, and Gage would never forget that it was Alec who had gotten him his job in the first place. Alec had had a good heart, despite his many mistakes.
Gage's hand slid down to find Sapphire's. "Figured I'd sit with you, if that's okay..."
“...I guess it’s only natural that I’d be asked to say a few words.” Carson hooked his hands in his pockets as his eyes lowered to the small marker in the fresh, green grass. Though the sun was shining and a light breeze blew, there seemed to be little peace.
“Problem is…I really don’t know what to say. I was up half the night and yet I find myself lacking the right words.” He looked back up and caught a few glances of those who were there. Dani…Misty…Eli and Ryan…Justin.
“Alec and I didn’t always see eye-to-eye.” A slight grin emerged. “But we were brothers. Maybe I only recently started to appreciate that. And…I’m sorry I didn’t appreciate it sooner, because he was a good man. He struggled like the rest of us. Maybe more in some ways. But in the end, he followed his heart. Maybe it was foolhardy. But he acted out of love.”
Carson’s gaze lingered on Misty for but a short moment before he moved on. “I wish I knew if I could take comfort, knowing I’d see Alec again. Knowing he was at peace. But I gotta be honest…I don’t know either of those. And I feel partly to blame. I was introduced to God by people who weren’t willing to give up on me when I was struggling. I discovered the most important things in life through them. Yet I neglected to encourage my brother in such a way.”
Though his emotions churned, he controlled them well, not allowing his voice to waver. “I don’t know where he was with the Lord, and all I can do is hope that he was met with mercy when he died. But I can’t dwell on the unanswered questions. All I can do is know that Alec’s death was not in vain. He gave his life because he valued others more than himself. That kind of act can’t save a person’s soul. But it can bring some small comfort to know that at the very least, his courage will live on through the rest of us. He wouldn’t have wanted us to think of him in misery, but in happiness and gratefulness for who he was to all of us. I think we can all take something from his sacrifice…those we love are more important than life itself.”
It didn’t seem to be enough, but it’s all Carson had. Letting it go at that, he moved to the side to allow the minister to take over. He walked a few steps and scanned the chairs to find Mackenzie’s hopeful eyes. The empty seat was right next to Misty…but it was the only logical place for him to sit. He’d do his best not to make her uncomfortable.
Slipping in to the empty space, he put his arm around Mackenzie to give her a little squeeze. And to his left was Misty…and it took all he had not to at least look at her. But as he gazed ahead at the minister, a silent tear rolled down his cheek. Oh, how he hurt.
"Mmm...yeah, everything's okay." Eric looked to Stacy and offered a tired smile. "Other than being plum tuckered out," he admitted.
Shifting around a little, he let Stacy tuck in closer next to him so he could put his arm around her. "Just thinking, is all. Didn't used to bother me... the long runs, I mean. Being gone a month at a time wasn't anything. But now..." He sighed. "Now I'm not sure it's what I should be doing. But it's good money - money this ranch needs. But knowing how Ashlee feels...I don't want to be gone so much that I lose what I've got with her..." He paused and glanced down to Stacy's face. "...or with you, for that matter... I just...don't know where to go from here."
The ride to the cemetery was quiet, and Eli left Ryan with her own thoughts, and himself with his own. There wasn't much to say anyway... a part of their life had ended, and they would move on. It's just the way the world worked.
Once at the cemetery, Eli walked with his sister to where there were chairs set up for just a small gathering. There weren't a whole lot of people there...which wasn't surprising. Alec hadn't really had a broad social life aside from close family and a few friends. That was about it, in addition to a handful of Elite agents who came more out of respect than friendship.
Arriving with Misty, Jason's heart still hurt. More for her than anyone, and he wished he could just make it all better. He wished all the pain would just go away. Why did things like this have to happen? And why now? Not that any time would have been good, but with all Misty had ever been through, it just felt even more unfair.
He gave Misty an encouraging nod before they headed to where the other people where, and found them both seats. Maybe things had been strained between them, but he chose to sit next to her anyway - as the friend he would always try to be. There was a strange tension because of Carson's presence, but it couldn't be helped, and no one would forfeit being there just to avoid that awkwardness - Jason included.
Mackenzie settled in near Misty, daring to throw her a couple glances, though a smile didn't appear. She missed seeing Misty and hadn't seen her at all lately. She'd been told what had happened, and knew now there would be no baby brother or sister. It had hurt, and now she'd lost her uncle, too.
Her gaze dropped, and she paid little attention when Justin sat next to her. Some girls her age might rely on him for a hug or a shoulder to rest her head on. But she would remain reserved and withdrawn - it was the way she'd taught herself to survive.
"Hey." Gage had quietly come up behind Sapphire to lay a hand on her shoulder. This whole atmosphere felt strange to him. Many people were here not because they'd been close to Alec, but simply because they respected his last act. For Gage, it was a little of both. He hadn't been great friends with Alec, but they'd gotten along okay as of late, and Gage would never forget that it was Alec who had gotten him his job in the first place. Alec had had a good heart, despite his many mistakes.
Gage's hand slid down to find Sapphire's. "Figured I'd sit with you, if that's okay..."
“...I guess it’s only natural that I’d be asked to say a few words.” Carson hooked his hands in his pockets as his eyes lowered to the small marker in the fresh, green grass. Though the sun was shining and a light breeze blew, there seemed to be little peace.
“Problem is…I really don’t know what to say. I was up half the night and yet I find myself lacking the right words.” He looked back up and caught a few glances of those who were there. Dani…Misty…Eli and Ryan…Justin.
“Alec and I didn’t always see eye-to-eye.” A slight grin emerged. “But we were brothers. Maybe I only recently started to appreciate that. And…I’m sorry I didn’t appreciate it sooner, because he was a good man. He struggled like the rest of us. Maybe more in some ways. But in the end, he followed his heart. Maybe it was foolhardy. But he acted out of love.”
Carson’s gaze lingered on Misty for but a short moment before he moved on. “I wish I knew if I could take comfort, knowing I’d see Alec again. Knowing he was at peace. But I gotta be honest…I don’t know either of those. And I feel partly to blame. I was introduced to God by people who weren’t willing to give up on me when I was struggling. I discovered the most important things in life through them. Yet I neglected to encourage my brother in such a way.”
Though his emotions churned, he controlled them well, not allowing his voice to waver. “I don’t know where he was with the Lord, and all I can do is hope that he was met with mercy when he died. But I can’t dwell on the unanswered questions. All I can do is know that Alec’s death was not in vain. He gave his life because he valued others more than himself. That kind of act can’t save a person’s soul. But it can bring some small comfort to know that at the very least, his courage will live on through the rest of us. He wouldn’t have wanted us to think of him in misery, but in happiness and gratefulness for who he was to all of us. I think we can all take something from his sacrifice…those we love are more important than life itself.”
It didn’t seem to be enough, but it’s all Carson had. Letting it go at that, he moved to the side to allow the minister to take over. He walked a few steps and scanned the chairs to find Mackenzie’s hopeful eyes. The empty seat was right next to Misty…but it was the only logical place for him to sit. He’d do his best not to make her uncomfortable.
Slipping in to the empty space, he put his arm around Mackenzie to give her a little squeeze. And to his left was Misty…and it took all he had not to at least look at her. But as he gazed ahead at the minister, a silent tear rolled down his cheek. Oh, how he hurt.
"Mmm...yeah, everything's okay." Eric looked to Stacy and offered a tired smile. "Other than being plum tuckered out," he admitted.
Shifting around a little, he let Stacy tuck in closer next to him so he could put his arm around her. "Just thinking, is all. Didn't used to bother me... the long runs, I mean. Being gone a month at a time wasn't anything. But now..." He sighed. "Now I'm not sure it's what I should be doing. But it's good money - money this ranch needs. But knowing how Ashlee feels...I don't want to be gone so much that I lose what I've got with her..." He paused and glanced down to Stacy's face. "...or with you, for that matter... I just...don't know where to go from here."
Thats Why
Standing in the bathroom Ryan looks in the mirror again. She'd never really liked dressing like this. Her hair done up, makeup, a dress on. She actually felt really uncomfortable. For more reason than one. Hadn't this whole thing with Alec being dead gone on long enough? Was this really a ploy to just cut him out of life forever.
Looking down at her phone again her eyes scan the reply from Alec. They just dont want us to be together, thats why...! Would her brother, the people she thought were friends really go this far to ensure that he stayed out of her life forever. It confused Ryan and hurt as well.
Should I just not go?
No you have to go. They don't know we are talking and if they did...who knows.
Giving a sigh Ryan new Alec had a point. She didn't like this, she didn't like pretending he was dead, but if no one thought she believed them, who knows what else they would try. She hated thinking that but if they went to this length one could only guess what else they would do.
Hearing Eli call her from down the hall Ryan lets out another sigh and heads out of the bathroom giving Zidan a pat on the head before exiting her room and heading twords Eli.
"Yeah, I'm as ready as I'll never be. Lets get this over with."
Sitting on her bed Misty just sat as tears rolled down her face. Why...why this after be so real. People had been back to see her, let her know that they had proof Alec really was dead she'd been silent for the most part through it all, and if she did speak it was only a few words at a time. She'd lost everything, her child, her husband, her relationship she was trying to work on, and now she lost the closest thing to a brother she'd had left. Her body hurt and she just wanted to lay down again, but she new she couldn't.
"Jas, I'm ready."
Misty's words were quiet, and yet held so much emotion. Her eyes were bloodshot and red. It was time to say good bye. Time to try and let go She'd already made the desition that after the ground had settled from burying Alec she was going to have a headstone for her baby next to him. Some might think it was silly but she felt it would be right and healthy. There would be no service for the child, but it would be there next to the Uncle who had cherished her so much without even knowing her yet.
Sitting in one of the chairs that had been set up Sapphire fiddled with the hem on the bottom of her dress jacket. It was a nice day out, but it didn't seem so nice. Alec, one of her friends, one of her only friends who got her quirks and didn't care was gone. There were so many "What ifs" that ran through her head and yet she new nothing could of changed the path Alec had chosen and now he was gone. Life would go on for her, but it would be hard, and the lose of a friend would leave a big hole, but maybe in time she could look back on the good times and smile hoping that maybe one day she'd see Alec again when she was called home.
Angelica stood with Reese a little bit away in some shade. Her heart was full of the sadness that washed over most of the Elite. The office had been quiet, dull, and almost like a ghost town over the last few days of work.
Though Alec had made mistakes, and betrayed many people he'd still been a friend at one point, and was trying to turn his life around. So this would be the day they would say good bye to there friend and lay him to rest. A task that was never an easy one and Angelica new it would be hard to Reese even if he didn't say it. Taking his hand in her own she gave it a small squeeze. She was there with him, and he was with her. They'd lean on each other.
After doing her rounds Stacy made her way to the barn hay layloft. She wasn't sure if Eric would be there or not after his abrupt exit to dinner. She wasn't sure what it was about but she did want to make sure he was ok.
Seeing his shadow as she walked up the ladder she couldn't help but smile. She always smile when she was around him. Tonight though something seemed to be bother him, to be weighing heavy on his mind. Easing down next to him and just letting her legs hang from the window she leaned in just a little bit twords him.
"When you left so fast at dinner I thought something might be wrong. Everything ok?"
Looking down at her phone again her eyes scan the reply from Alec. They just dont want us to be together, thats why...! Would her brother, the people she thought were friends really go this far to ensure that he stayed out of her life forever. It confused Ryan and hurt as well.
Should I just not go?
No you have to go. They don't know we are talking and if they did...who knows.
Giving a sigh Ryan new Alec had a point. She didn't like this, she didn't like pretending he was dead, but if no one thought she believed them, who knows what else they would try. She hated thinking that but if they went to this length one could only guess what else they would do.
Hearing Eli call her from down the hall Ryan lets out another sigh and heads out of the bathroom giving Zidan a pat on the head before exiting her room and heading twords Eli.
"Yeah, I'm as ready as I'll never be. Lets get this over with."
Sitting on her bed Misty just sat as tears rolled down her face. Why...why this after be so real. People had been back to see her, let her know that they had proof Alec really was dead she'd been silent for the most part through it all, and if she did speak it was only a few words at a time. She'd lost everything, her child, her husband, her relationship she was trying to work on, and now she lost the closest thing to a brother she'd had left. Her body hurt and she just wanted to lay down again, but she new she couldn't.
"Jas, I'm ready."
Misty's words were quiet, and yet held so much emotion. Her eyes were bloodshot and red. It was time to say good bye. Time to try and let go She'd already made the desition that after the ground had settled from burying Alec she was going to have a headstone for her baby next to him. Some might think it was silly but she felt it would be right and healthy. There would be no service for the child, but it would be there next to the Uncle who had cherished her so much without even knowing her yet.
Sitting in one of the chairs that had been set up Sapphire fiddled with the hem on the bottom of her dress jacket. It was a nice day out, but it didn't seem so nice. Alec, one of her friends, one of her only friends who got her quirks and didn't care was gone. There were so many "What ifs" that ran through her head and yet she new nothing could of changed the path Alec had chosen and now he was gone. Life would go on for her, but it would be hard, and the lose of a friend would leave a big hole, but maybe in time she could look back on the good times and smile hoping that maybe one day she'd see Alec again when she was called home.
Angelica stood with Reese a little bit away in some shade. Her heart was full of the sadness that washed over most of the Elite. The office had been quiet, dull, and almost like a ghost town over the last few days of work.
Though Alec had made mistakes, and betrayed many people he'd still been a friend at one point, and was trying to turn his life around. So this would be the day they would say good bye to there friend and lay him to rest. A task that was never an easy one and Angelica new it would be hard to Reese even if he didn't say it. Taking his hand in her own she gave it a small squeeze. She was there with him, and he was with her. They'd lean on each other.
After doing her rounds Stacy made her way to the barn hay layloft. She wasn't sure if Eric would be there or not after his abrupt exit to dinner. She wasn't sure what it was about but she did want to make sure he was ok.
Seeing his shadow as she walked up the ladder she couldn't help but smile. She always smile when she was around him. Tonight though something seemed to be bother him, to be weighing heavy on his mind. Easing down next to him and just letting her legs hang from the window she leaned in just a little bit twords him.
"When you left so fast at dinner I thought something might be wrong. Everything ok?"
7/21/15
Sad Day
Something still seemed strange, but Eli tried to shrug it off. He just hadn't expected Ryan to be so casual this morning. But then...she'd always been good at hiding her emotions and playing things tough when she wanted to.
"Yeah, okay. You, too. See you later." He headed out and fired up his bike to go to work...
Eli thumbed through some paperwork at the counter in the back of the shop and glanced over his shoulder as Tal joined him. “Hey.”
“Morning.”
“You, um…heard from Ryan?”
“Nothing in particular…why? Everything okay?”
Eli kept his eyes on the clipboard. “Well…Alec Banks is dead. He was…killed during an Elite case.”
Tal blinked. “Wow, that’s…a surprise.” He shrugged. “Can’t say I’m disappointed about one less thorn in my side, though.”
Eli finally looked up at him. “That’s a little harsh, isn’t it?”
“What? You feel differently? Alec was the only man who ever succeeded in making me afraid to even go home at night. Not to mention he was insanely obsessed about me being with his ex, and couldn’t ever let that whole thing rest even when he was over his little beat-up-Tal phase. So, no, I don’t think I’m being harsh.”
Eli sighed and focused again on the paperwork. “Well, Ryan was rather upset about it last night, so just tread carefully.”
“Even in death, Alec is making things difficult. I’m not gonna lie about how I feel.”
“I’m not asking you to!” Eli’s frustration came out in his tone. “Look, I understand, but you gotta realize that despite Alec’s stupid and wrong choices, he and Ryan were still close once. And he was a friend of mine once, too. We may not have had a good relationship recently, but he’s still gone, and there’s still a hole there. So just…if all you have to say is negative, then for all our sake’s, keep it to yourself until we’ve worked through it.”
It was rare for the two friends to exchange any kind of harsh words, and Eli did feel badly, but there was more here than Tal was willing to acknowledge, and it wasn’t helping matters. Eli picked up the clipboard and headed to the other room. “Come on. We’ve got work to do.”
Scott managed a little smile for Hope before he stood up. He did appreciate her never-ending encouragement and graciousness, even if he couldn’t always express it well. Maybe some ice cream really would help…
…The next few days at the Elite office were strange ones. Alec had been gone from the team for so long, yet there was still a sense of loss. He had succeeded in gaining them intel, and in return had lost his life. It was no small act.
During the course of work, Scott and Dalton stumbled upon a current file that had apparently been misplaced by someone in the Agency. But it served to confirm what everyone already thought to be true. The file held a report of Alec’s intrusion into their outpost, their discovery of his presence, and the method with which they ended his life. If there had been any doubt of his death before, or any faint hope that he had survived, it no longer existed. And as such, Reese made preparations. They at least owed it to the memory of Alec to gather and remember…
Eli tucked in his collared shirt and ran a hand through his hair before exiting the bathroom. He’d thought about staying home today. But something inside said he should go to the service for Alec. He knew Ryan was going – maybe he was going for her. Or maybe himself. The whole thing was just messed up. But he still couldn’t deny there had been good times. So he would try to dwell on those things.
“Ryan? You ready?” he hollered down the hallway. The service would start in twenty minutes at the cemetery.
Jason stood outside the hospital room, ready to help Misty, if need be. It was going to be a hard day – for more than one person. For him. For Misty. Carson. Mackenzie. With the actual proof of Alec’s death, a service was only right. But it was a day to say goodbye. And such a farewell would not be easy.
Carson paced in small circles under a tree in the cemetery. He was just a short ways from where they would lay a marker for Alec. Without a body, it made things better and worse, both. But the Elite had agreed to afford Alec at least a location where others could visit. The hardest part for Carson was knowing that he was supposed to share a short speech, and he didn’t feel ready. At all.
Axel had helped him through this past week, but he felt far from at peace with all of this. Life had to go on. But that didn’t mean it would be easy.
Justin stood nearer the small plot laid out, one hand hooked in his jeans pocket, and the other on Mackenzie’s shoulder. The girl’s eyes were full of shock and sadness, but she had agreed to coming. She had not taken the news well, and had seen Justin almost every day this last week to get through it. Today the tears were gone, and she was very quiet. Even the sight of her dad nearby wasn’t enough to bring a smile. Not in this place. First, Misty was hurt, then Alec was killed. It wasn’t fair, and she just wanted everyone to be together again. But things would never be the same now.
Justin had planned to come anyway, for Carson’s sake, but had made sure to clear his schedule after Mackenzie had said she wanted to be here. Her parents had left her in his and Carson’s care for the length of the service and would pick her up later. It seemed the most appropriate way to handle things at the moment, though nothing seemed to have a real right or wrong at this point. Justin’s only concern was a setback with Mackenzie if she was allowed to dwell on her sorrow for too long.
Eric stood and laughed, shaking his head at Ashlee. “Hey, now. I may be old, but I’m not dead. Come on. Let’s go for a ride.”
It felt good that he and Ashlee were okay again. He was just glad to have figured it all out, especially before he’d have to leave again…
…It was that same evening, and Eric found himself alone in the barn hayloft, gazing out over the sky after the sun had just disappeared. Stars were just beginning to appear, and a cool breeze brought relief from the hot day. He was more sore than he’d like to admit, and knew the next day would be even worse, but he was far from ready to go to bed. He’d left supper rather quickly to find his way here where he found few answers to what was bothering his heart and mind. Maybe somewhere deep down, he hoped Stacy would find him here where they often sat together to stargaze. But whether she came tonight or not, his search for an answer continued to plague him. Up until this morning, he’d been so sure of what he should do. And now…it was blurry again.
"Yeah, okay. You, too. See you later." He headed out and fired up his bike to go to work...
Eli thumbed through some paperwork at the counter in the back of the shop and glanced over his shoulder as Tal joined him. “Hey.”
“Morning.”
“You, um…heard from Ryan?”
“Nothing in particular…why? Everything okay?”
Eli kept his eyes on the clipboard. “Well…Alec Banks is dead. He was…killed during an Elite case.”
Tal blinked. “Wow, that’s…a surprise.” He shrugged. “Can’t say I’m disappointed about one less thorn in my side, though.”
Eli finally looked up at him. “That’s a little harsh, isn’t it?”
“What? You feel differently? Alec was the only man who ever succeeded in making me afraid to even go home at night. Not to mention he was insanely obsessed about me being with his ex, and couldn’t ever let that whole thing rest even when he was over his little beat-up-Tal phase. So, no, I don’t think I’m being harsh.”
Eli sighed and focused again on the paperwork. “Well, Ryan was rather upset about it last night, so just tread carefully.”
“Even in death, Alec is making things difficult. I’m not gonna lie about how I feel.”
“I’m not asking you to!” Eli’s frustration came out in his tone. “Look, I understand, but you gotta realize that despite Alec’s stupid and wrong choices, he and Ryan were still close once. And he was a friend of mine once, too. We may not have had a good relationship recently, but he’s still gone, and there’s still a hole there. So just…if all you have to say is negative, then for all our sake’s, keep it to yourself until we’ve worked through it.”
It was rare for the two friends to exchange any kind of harsh words, and Eli did feel badly, but there was more here than Tal was willing to acknowledge, and it wasn’t helping matters. Eli picked up the clipboard and headed to the other room. “Come on. We’ve got work to do.”
Scott managed a little smile for Hope before he stood up. He did appreciate her never-ending encouragement and graciousness, even if he couldn’t always express it well. Maybe some ice cream really would help…
…The next few days at the Elite office were strange ones. Alec had been gone from the team for so long, yet there was still a sense of loss. He had succeeded in gaining them intel, and in return had lost his life. It was no small act.
During the course of work, Scott and Dalton stumbled upon a current file that had apparently been misplaced by someone in the Agency. But it served to confirm what everyone already thought to be true. The file held a report of Alec’s intrusion into their outpost, their discovery of his presence, and the method with which they ended his life. If there had been any doubt of his death before, or any faint hope that he had survived, it no longer existed. And as such, Reese made preparations. They at least owed it to the memory of Alec to gather and remember…
Eli tucked in his collared shirt and ran a hand through his hair before exiting the bathroom. He’d thought about staying home today. But something inside said he should go to the service for Alec. He knew Ryan was going – maybe he was going for her. Or maybe himself. The whole thing was just messed up. But he still couldn’t deny there had been good times. So he would try to dwell on those things.
“Ryan? You ready?” he hollered down the hallway. The service would start in twenty minutes at the cemetery.
Jason stood outside the hospital room, ready to help Misty, if need be. It was going to be a hard day – for more than one person. For him. For Misty. Carson. Mackenzie. With the actual proof of Alec’s death, a service was only right. But it was a day to say goodbye. And such a farewell would not be easy.
Carson paced in small circles under a tree in the cemetery. He was just a short ways from where they would lay a marker for Alec. Without a body, it made things better and worse, both. But the Elite had agreed to afford Alec at least a location where others could visit. The hardest part for Carson was knowing that he was supposed to share a short speech, and he didn’t feel ready. At all.
Axel had helped him through this past week, but he felt far from at peace with all of this. Life had to go on. But that didn’t mean it would be easy.
Justin stood nearer the small plot laid out, one hand hooked in his jeans pocket, and the other on Mackenzie’s shoulder. The girl’s eyes were full of shock and sadness, but she had agreed to coming. She had not taken the news well, and had seen Justin almost every day this last week to get through it. Today the tears were gone, and she was very quiet. Even the sight of her dad nearby wasn’t enough to bring a smile. Not in this place. First, Misty was hurt, then Alec was killed. It wasn’t fair, and she just wanted everyone to be together again. But things would never be the same now.
Justin had planned to come anyway, for Carson’s sake, but had made sure to clear his schedule after Mackenzie had said she wanted to be here. Her parents had left her in his and Carson’s care for the length of the service and would pick her up later. It seemed the most appropriate way to handle things at the moment, though nothing seemed to have a real right or wrong at this point. Justin’s only concern was a setback with Mackenzie if she was allowed to dwell on her sorrow for too long.
Eric stood and laughed, shaking his head at Ashlee. “Hey, now. I may be old, but I’m not dead. Come on. Let’s go for a ride.”
It felt good that he and Ashlee were okay again. He was just glad to have figured it all out, especially before he’d have to leave again…
…It was that same evening, and Eric found himself alone in the barn hayloft, gazing out over the sky after the sun had just disappeared. Stars were just beginning to appear, and a cool breeze brought relief from the hot day. He was more sore than he’d like to admit, and knew the next day would be even worse, but he was far from ready to go to bed. He’d left supper rather quickly to find his way here where he found few answers to what was bothering his heart and mind. Maybe somewhere deep down, he hoped Stacy would find him here where they often sat together to stargaze. But whether she came tonight or not, his search for an answer continued to plague him. Up until this morning, he’d been so sure of what he should do. And now…it was blurry again.
7/20/15
Every Step
"Even small steps still count. We have to take the victories as they come."
It was quiet around the office today, and Hope really didn't have much work. She really didn't want to be there after all that had happened. It was a lot for one person to take in even if they didn't know Alec all that well. So hearing Scott suggestion made Hope jump a little. She was definitely ready to get out of there.
"At a time like this I think ice cream sounds like the perfect answer. Lets go get some. I'll even let you pay for it."
Hope smiles and gives Scott a little nudge at least hoping to get a little humor to spark in his eyes. Even if it was only a little sliver...it was the small victories after all.
Giving a nod at Eli Ryan looks down at her phone again.
What is so important that you give up lunch with me? Why I never...
Shaking her head and rolling her eyes Ryan replys.
I've got a lot of work to do and I think Eli wanted to do lunch or something. If anything changes I'll text you.
Looking back up at Eli and realizing he said something Ryan nods again. Before putting some toast in the toaster.
"Sounds good Bro. Have a good day."
Ashlee jumps up and gives a small punch to Eric's arm. She was dieing to ride and happy to hear him ask. All together she felt so much better and that little reassurance from Eric really helped.
"I dont know, do you think you can handle riding more? I think you might be more sore than I am."
Her eyes twinkled with a new challenge, and a slight taunting tone. She loved being to joke around with Eric and have him just joke back.
"I'm game if you are though."
It was quiet around the office today, and Hope really didn't have much work. She really didn't want to be there after all that had happened. It was a lot for one person to take in even if they didn't know Alec all that well. So hearing Scott suggestion made Hope jump a little. She was definitely ready to get out of there.
"At a time like this I think ice cream sounds like the perfect answer. Lets go get some. I'll even let you pay for it."
Hope smiles and gives Scott a little nudge at least hoping to get a little humor to spark in his eyes. Even if it was only a little sliver...it was the small victories after all.
Giving a nod at Eli Ryan looks down at her phone again.
What is so important that you give up lunch with me? Why I never...
Shaking her head and rolling her eyes Ryan replys.
I've got a lot of work to do and I think Eli wanted to do lunch or something. If anything changes I'll text you.
Looking back up at Eli and realizing he said something Ryan nods again. Before putting some toast in the toaster.
"Sounds good Bro. Have a good day."
Ashlee jumps up and gives a small punch to Eric's arm. She was dieing to ride and happy to hear him ask. All together she felt so much better and that little reassurance from Eric really helped.
"I dont know, do you think you can handle riding more? I think you might be more sore than I am."
Her eyes twinkled with a new challenge, and a slight taunting tone. She loved being to joke around with Eric and have him just joke back.
"I'm game if you are though."
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