"Oh, he's alright." Jade giggles. She knew her stepdad had just been playing around and they really did get alone pretty well.

"No, I didn't get everything I wanted," she replies. Flopping down into an easy chair in the living room, her voice had a new happy tone to it, being able to talk to Dan.

"For one, we won't open gifts 'til tonight, but two, you're not here." She pauses, still smiling a little. "Otherwise, my Christmas has been okay. Yours?"

Everything

Not being able to help his laughter Dan new that must be Jade's step dad that had answered the phone. He seemed like a nice guy, and it was nicer to head how he teased Jade. The laughter in her own voice showed that they alone got along good and that made Dan happy to know that. Family was important.

Finally hearing Jade's voice and her comment Dan gives a laugh again. It was nice to hear her happy, and talking to her over the phone had a differnt element to it. He kind of liked it.

"Hey there Beautiful. I think I kind of like you Step Dad."

Giving a smile even thought Dan couldn't see her he really couldn't help it. Even just talking to Jade on the phone made him do just that.

"So, how has you Christmas been so far? Get everything you wanted?"

Giving a little jump not knowing anyone else was behind her and still being edgy in a new place not knowing if the Agency new she was here or not Thirteen turns her head quickly. But seeing it was Trent she relaxed just a little still a look of surprise was on her face.

Looking back to the horse and seeing her father's hand on top of her helping with the brushing a warm feeling seemed to wash over. Even after everything that happened yesterday just having the man that was her father that close to her gave her a new happy feeling.

"The curry brush is that green over over there to get the dust out...right?"

Though Thirteen was bursting with questions she wanted answered to, and different things she wanted to tell her father about herself even though there wasn't much after yesterday if she learned anything it was to slow down a little. She didn't even know if her Dad was going to stick around long, and she didn't want to start thinking about everything if he wasn't. She did really want to get to know him though.

Hearing Gunner's voice on the other end and instant smile formed on Bree's face as she sat up a little straighter on the bed than she had in a while. Her eyes seemed to twinkle as life shown in them again. Gunner seemed to be Bree's medicine.

"Happy Un-Merry Christmas Gunner. I've missed you so much."

Bree couldn't help the small tear that rolled from her eye as she brought her legs up to her chest. It almost felt like she was a child again, but she really did miss Gunner more than she had said though she new her Uncle new.

"I've been look at the starts a lot hoping you were looking too. It helped me feel close to you."

Bree gave another sniff drawing silent as she tried to keep her own emotions in check. The only had a short time to talk she didn't want to wast what little time was there crying.

"I feel like Romeo and Juliet you know only worse. As soon as I can, I am going to come and see you. I promise."

Leaning her head against Mick's her own little chuckle coming out at her brother's comment her eyes don't leave his for the longest moment. Just soaking in everything about him she had missed so much, and feeling close to him again.

"How could I not wait for you? We have a family together, and I love you so much."

Finally breaking the gaze Rosetta turns her head catching sight of Dylan over by the door. Pulling away from Mick just a little bit but not to far like he might vanish again if she did Rosetta gives her step son a warm smile.

"Hey Dylan. Its good to see you again. We have some breakfast left over if you'd like any or I could make you some new stuff."

Looking up and seeing his Dad walk in the door BJ got instantly excited but was told to wait while Mick and Rosetta had each other embraced Wendy held the boy back. Like a rocket ready to be set off the BJ was bursting with energy to see his dad again.

Finally moving her hand Wendy gave a smile and a nod to BJ telling him it was ok now. Giving a little hop BJ runs full speed for Mick but stops turning around and grabbing his checker bored before heading to Mick again throwing his arms around his legs and holding them tight.

"DAD!!!!! I've missed you!!! I sink you would never come home."

No circles

Gunner hears Bree's voice and a smile resurfaces. "Hey, you." He pauses, knowing she'd recognize his voice. "It's just your friendly vampire wanting to say merry Christmas."


"Dan? You mean the Dan we've been hearing all about?" Ben had answered Jade's phone and his tone was a teasing one.

"Ben!" Jade's shriek could be heard in the background. "Give me the phone!"

Ben laughs and backs away from her, carrying her phone with him that he'd happened to answer as it had rung. "Now, now, calm down, Jade." He laughs again, talking to Dan once more. "You'd think she missed you or something. Dan this, Dan that... it's nonstop, I tell ya."

"Cut it out!" Jade wails. "I want to talk to him!"

"Hear that?" Ben ducks Jade's flailing arms as he continues to talk to Dan. "If I didn't know better, I'd think she was in love or something."

"Ben!!!" Jade's face was completely red as she begs him to stop his teasing.

"Alright, okay," he relents. "Here you go."

Grabbing her phone, Jade backs into another room before saying anything to Dan. "I want you to know I am completely mortified," she states flatly, then pauses, beginning to smile, her tone changing. "But I suppose if it meant talking to you, it's worth it... Hi."


Eric grimaces, showing that he really would rather get the pain medication then leave. But he knew too well to argue with Angel.

Stripping, he winces a little as she pokes and prods, not wanting to admit how much it hurt. He'd been kicked by a horse on that same leg once and the bruising brought back not-so-fond memories of that experience.

Sighing as he dresses again, he nods reluctantly to wearing a brace. "Yeah, yeah, I know... take it easy, stay off it and all that. At least half will come true since I can't drive and my rig's in the shop, so you can take comfort in the fact that you can watch me like a hawk all you want."

He grins at Angel, showing he was trying not to be grouchy about it. "I'll tell ya if anything gets worse," he promises. "And... thanks. If you weren't here, they woulda kept me at the hospital and I wouldn't have been able to come."


Mick's eyes dance as Rosetta shouts his name and embraces him. Wrapping his arms around her, he hugs her tightly with a soft chuckle. "Mmm.... I missed you too, more than you'll ever know."

Being drawn into her kiss, he doesn't hesitate to return it with deep passion. He'd been gone for too long. His hat slides back on his head, but he ignores it, just wanting to live this moment with his wife.

At a nearby table, Jeff's eyebrows rise and a grin comes to his face. Seeing that his sister and brother-in-law were ignoring present company, he clears his throat, but that does no good. Starting to laugh, he looks over to Sparky and Faith, then back to Rosetta and Mick. "Wooee... I'd say somebody was missed."

Hearing Jeff, Mick can't help but laugh, breaking the kiss. Leaning his forehead against Rosetta's, his eyes were clear and his gaze so strong. "I love you," he whispers. "Thank you for waiting for me."


Dylan shifts his weight uncomfortably, still standing back by the door. His hands were stuffed in his hoodie, his facial expression far from anything close to a smile. His eyes were dark and defiant, yet he was hesitant, almost shy.

Watching his dad and stepmom a moment, his eyes drop again. Was that Wendy in the corner? He vaguely remembered her. Was that baby a new cousin? He wondered. The boy must be BJ, the one Mick had warned Dylan to not be a bad influence or else. Cousin/brother... the whole family was messed up. And who was that over there with Sparky? At least he thought it was Sparky from what he could remember. He felt so out of place.

Leaning back against the wall, his stance is defensive, just waiting to be told what to do next.


Ryder grins as he stands next to Thirteen gently brushing the mare in the barn aisle. Jim had helped them retrieve the mare and had given them a couple brushes to use. The mare stood quietly, sighing deeply and almost falling asleep under the pampering.

Ryder nods to the mare's almost-closed eyes and chuckles, trying to get Thirteen to laugh too. He'd tried extra hard this morning to see her smile. After last night's little fiasco, he just wanted to make it home without too much more damage.

"Hey, Ryder, you still in here?" Jim's voice came from a stall somewhere around the corner.

"Yeah."

"Come here a minute would you?"

Ryder sets his brush aside and nods to Thirteen. "I'll be right back," he assures. "You can keep brushing." Heading off to find Jim, he discovers him remounting a hay rack but needing a second pair of hands.


Trent wipes the remaining oil from his hands and sighs deeply. He'd gladly stay here all day, but his legs were getting stiff. He knew when to quit, especially with the weather as chilly as it was.

Rising from his seat, he stretches then returns the saddle to its rightful stand. Exiting the tack room, he wanders in the direction the the door, figuring on going back to his bunk for a while then coming back to clean some stalls later.

But what he sees, stops him in his tracks. From behind, Thirteen wouldn't be able to see him, but he could see her. She was brushing the mare so gently... timidly. Trent's stomach turns. He wanted to go the back way out now, but something kept him from doing that. Words flew through his mind... words of others that scolded him for his actions and secrets. Condemning words that convicted him and brought on the guilt all over again. He should just leave. But she was so innocent... so alone...


A hand slips around Thirteen, to rest on top of her fingers, curling around the brush she was using. Guiding the brush up to the mare's withers, the brush is drawn back in a firmer stroke.

"No circles with a soft brush," Trent instructs gently. "This kind you just use long firm strokes." He guides her hand back up again and down along the mare's back. Up, and down once more, the bristles combing out all of the dust, making the coat shine. "The rubber curry is her favorite though."

Phone Calls

Leaning back in his truck Dan's bags at his sides He watched the soft falling snow. He'd checked out of his hotel already, and would be heading home soon. The time away, the quiet on his own without bars was well spent. He's come to terms with his self, and had started the forgiving process. Something he had put off for way to long. But Dan new now what he wanted in life, and Jade had helped with that. For him to be totally committed to her He needed to let go, Jade's words of forever lingering in his mind.

Giving a smile Dan reaches for his cell phone Dan opens his car door and gets out once again, taking in the cold air. It wasn't often he saw snow, and he needed to call Jade before heading home. It was Christmas after all, and something he couldn't not do. So why not enjoy both at the same time.

Dialing her cell number Dan waits to here the familiar voice answer on the other end. He missed her something fierce, and couldn't wait to see her again. Being away, and Jade being so far away too he understood just how much he missed and cared for her a great deal. Continuing to let the phone ring Dan waited.

Finally hearing the mail voice on the other end of Jade's phone Dan guess it would be her step father, or another family member who had gathered at the house to be with family.

"Hi, this is Dan, and I was wondering if Jade was available to talk."

Eating another peace of bacon Katie couldn't keep the smile off her face. Last night things had been crazy, and there heart went out to a few family members Katie still felt so at home, and stress free away from work Being with Jason, that was icing on the cake.

Feeling his warm and loving emotions come her way it sends a chill up Katie's spine. One she often felt when he left off good emotions, and one she would never tire of. It was such a nice feeling. She could never explain it to anyone else other than it felt good.

I think a Christmas horse ride sounds amazing. Not to mention if we are careful and take the trail that leads a little ways into the mountains there is some snow left and it will look so pretty. Unless you have some where else you would like to ride.

Kaite draws Jason's happy, loving, and content emotions a little more, making them flow to her faster showing she was so happy.

As long as I am with you we could ride down the street and I would be happy.

Holding Chase in her lap Wendy bounced him up and down gently as BJ held the baby's tiny hand as he played with his new toys. Keeping Chase entertained and happy.
Wendy didn't mind keeping watch over Chase and BJ while the others were moving around getting stuff ready, cleaning up, she enjoyed the kids, and watching the two interact was cute.

Smiling at Eric as she see him Angel knows why he was there and had been faxed over his x-rays and other paper work she might need on what happened.

"Ok, before I give you anything I wanna take a look at your leg. Just to make sure it looks ok."

Turning around and grabbing some gloves Angel waits for Eric to lower his pants. She new he didnt want to show her, and she was prepared for the worse but she needed to see it, and there was no saying no to her.

Kneeling down Angel tried to be as gentile as she could lifting Eric's leg. Seeing the purple bruse that ran down his leg Angel could tell his leg took the brunt of everything. Pressing on it in a few differnt places Angel new it probably hurt but she had to do it. Looking up at Eric her eyes say she is sorry.

"Well, you got a pretty nasty bruise on your muscle. I'm going to give to a brace to where. I know you wont stay off it like you need to but it will help at least take some weight off of it. I want you to promise me you will rest it as much as you can. Even if it feels good enough not to. When your sitting down it needs to stay raised."

Standing Angel takes the gloves off and goes to wash her hands grabbing a few painkillers on the way back along with the leg brace. Looking down at Eric her eyes show she really meant what she said.

"I mean it Eric, if you don't you could end up hurting yourself worse ok? If the pain gets worse you need to tell me, and in a few days I wanna take a look again."

Angel gives him a soft smile. She was always a Dr. first even to her friends wanting to make sure she kept them healthy and not worse would go wrong with them.

Looking up as her Uncle comes into the room Bree didn't show much emotion on her face. This was just another day to her, that held nothing much. The others were smiling, and laughing, Bree wished she could laugh to but she just wasn't in the mood.

Seeing the phone in JT's hand Bree eyes held hope, was she really going to be able to talk to Gunner. To hear his sweet voice was her Christmas wish really going to come true. Taking the phone her hand shook, it was to good to be true and thought she hoped with all her heart she didn't want to be let down to hard.

"Hello?"

Standing over the the medium size Christmas tree Rosetta study's the ornaments that were on it. There were many memories on that tree. Home made ones, ones given as gifts, it always made Rosetta smile looking them over and remembering.

Feeling the slight movement behind her before Mick even spoke Rosetta could smell his sent. As strange as it sounded, she had his own smell that Rosetta had come to love and know. But hearing his voice confirmed he was really there.

Feeling chills shoot down her spin Rosetta turned around quicker than she ever had before looking into her husbands eyes.

"MICK!"

Throwing her arms around his neck Rosetta held him tightly her face nuzzled into his neck. She'd missed him so much, she'd felt so lonely, and now he was back. Tears ran from Rosetta's eyes showing how happy she was to see him. It had felt like it had been so long. Pulling away and lookin into his eyes Rosetta moves Mick's head back giving a big smile. He never looked so good in his life.

"Oh Mick I missed you so much."

Leaning in Rosetta's lips press against Micks as she forgets about everyone else in the room. Not caring if they were watching or not. Rosetta's heart raced as she was filled with happiness. Her on arm finding Micks back as the other one ran though his hair. Letting the kiss linger and not end to soon.

Merry Christmas

Though curious as to where his niece had gone, JT doesn't ask. He never pried into Bree's business and she never pried into his - it was just the way they worked.

Trying to relax wasn't too hard. The family seemed to recover from the little episode a few minutes ago - at least they were trying to enough that it seemed to work. The music picked back up again, the rest of the gifts were handed out, and the absence of the other three was filled in by laughter and chatting once again.


Ryder gives Thirteen an encouraging nod and takes her hand, heading for the door. Bundled up, he takes her to her bunk but doesn't leave right away. Instead, he sits with her and finds a chick flick on television to watch with her. He doesn't make her talk about what had happened, but just holds her, trying to help her relax.

It wasn't until after Thirteen had fallen asleep and Ryder had made sure she had a blanket pulled up over her on the bed that he quietly left. Once in his own bunk, it took quite a while for sleep to overtake his mind. He felt bad for Thirteen, and he felt a might guilty too, for not having told her about Trent sooner. He knew he'd made a promise that he couldn't break, but still, he probably hadn't been fair to her either, and he just hoped that she wouldn't be mad at him for it.


Eric grins and nods. He knew he'd been wrong to hit Trent, but knowing Rosetta forgave him was enough to make him stay up with her.

"Yeah... I guess I've been on the road a lot lately, huh?" He takes another sip of coffee. "Maybe God's gonna use this to tell me to slow down a little."


As the evening wore on, people began filtering to their own homes or accommodations. Cindy left with Wes and a sleeping Kaylee. Clint wanted to stay up but he knew he needed to go with Wendy and get Chase to bed for the night too. JT made sure Bree was able to get to bed and to sleep before he did as well, wishing Amanda a merry Christmas before he did. Jim and Becky didn't stay too long, and Rosalyn ended up almost falling asleep in her chair, so she'd opted to call it a night as well. Luke stuck around a while to help clean up a few things, but as the late hours came, so did the pain, so he and Angel finally left too. Eventually, Jason and Katie were gone, leaving Sparky and Faith in a quiet corner talking, and Rosetta, Eric and Jeff chatting at their table still.

Though some would wish the evening to go on forever, body's eventually needed to rest and the dining hall was left dark and quiet. There was such a mix of emotions, so extreme. There was a happiness for the season and for the family being together and having such a good time. There was a sadness and a bit of anger connected to what was going on with Trent. And there was a longing for some who weren't there with them.

But time is a funny thing in that when the sun rises again, so often the world looks different than the day before. There's a freshness in the air and an opportunity to start again. The bad wasn't the end after all, and there's one more chance for the good to continue... for the warmth to wash over the ready souls again.


Breakfast was over and morning chores were almost done. The first few hours of daylight had been good. There was still a bit of tension in the air, but between Jeff's teasing, Clint's crazy antics at the breakfast table and Jason teaming up with Eric, laughter drove away the storm clouds.

Trent had not been seen yet today, but everyone else had made it in eventually, including the three fugitives and four visitors. It was a new day after all, and it was Christmas. Peace was available to all as each one found their own ways to grasp it.


So I was thinking about a nice ride this afternoon, just you and me. I know it's cold but... A Christmas horseback ride with you is pretty enticing.

Jason looks across the table to Katie, his emotions those of love and just a want to spend some extra special time with her on this special day. They'd have the rest of the morning then all evening with everyone else... gifts had almost all been exchanged already, so they only needed to make sure they were back in time for supper. So that left a little free time - at least that's what Jason was hoping for.


Eric eases slowly down into a chair in Angel's office, having just come over a while after breakfast. He's spoken with her earlier, so she knew he was here for some pain killers.

"I told the doctor at the hospital I didn't need nothin' but..." He grimaces a little. "This leg of mine seems pretty intent on making me miserable."


Trent emerges from his bunkhouse for the first time that morning. He hadn't gone to breakfast, and he hadn't socialized afterward. It was the tack room he was headed for now... the small confines of leather and oil that was his only haven. People would come and go, but for the most part, it was as private as it got, besides cooping himself up in his own bunk.

Stuffing his hands in his jacket pockets, he wanders to the barn, his head bent low. Thankfully, he made it inside without meeting anybody else. Slipping into the tack room, he shuts the door and finds a saddle to work on, setting it up in a warm corner to clean and oil. He could imagine the rest of his family thinking it was about time for him to leave and get out of their hair... and really, he deserved to get kicked out. Maybe it was time. What Bree had said the night before made sense but... in the long run, maybe it would be best if he just tried to start over somewhere else instead of trying to make up for a past that never could be forgiven.

His eyes were sad and tired. He'd hardly slept at all. Maybe even a few tears had been shed. He couldn't help but wonder though... was Thirteen even still here?


"Bree?" JT taps on the spare room door and lets himself in. After getting her up for breakfast, he'd seen her come back here to hibernate again.

"You awake?" He offers her a gentle smile, glad to see that she hadn't fallen back to sleep again. "I got something for ya..." Both knew that this was an abnormal Christmas. Normally they would have shopped til they dropped on Christmas Eve then had their own little party with junk food, gifts and cheesy movies. Today though, they were without all of that - JT only had one gift to give, and it had taken him all morning and a lot of string pulling to make it happen.

Taking his hand from behind his back, it held the room's cordless phone he'd taken earlier. "There's somebody who wants to talk to you."

On the other end, Gunner waits, hearing JT's muffled voice, apparently talking to Bree. He leans back still in his cell, but amused with David's style of getting the job done. He had a phone and he had it for fifteen minutes.


And while the morning progressed, not many would notice a familiar truck coming up the driveway. It was Christmas after all... and sometimes extra special blessings came when no one would thing they would. Especially when secrets had been kept so well over the phone.

Parking by the garage, the two occupants get out, one more grudgingly than the other. A bag or two was retrieved and the driver waits for the younger passenger to come around and trudge up the porch steps.

A few people were still in the dining hall - it was bet upon that the person sought after would be in here and not the main house at this time of the morning. And the assumption was correct.

Mick gestures to Dylan, that he can sit down wherever he likes, though his son remains standing, staring at the floor. It was obvious the teenager wasn't happy, but wasn't a risk to running off either. Mick's own focus was singular at this point. There was just one person he was concerned with seeing. His eyes were tired... he had a weary look about him and had lost a little weight, but he was back... and he was back for good this time.

Setting his bag down, Mick's gaze finds Rosetta at the other end of the room. Her back was turned, so he motions for some of the others to keep quiet and they play along. Coming up behind her near the kitchen, the brim of his hat brushes the back of her head. "Merry Christmas," he whispers.


Snow was falling... again. Jade had enjoyed just the light amount in Texas, but back in Colorado, it was piling up. And after just two days, she was already getting tired of it. She felt like a caged animal. Back in town, she already missed the wide open spaces and being able to roam the ranch. She was back in her bedroom again with all her things... but it just wasn't the same anymore.

Pacing the bay window in the living room, her mother chides her.

"Good grief, Jade... what's your problem?"

"Sorry. Bored."

"Well if that's the case, come help me with the turkey."

It was back to a traditional Christmas. Jade's mom, stepfather, grandparents and a few cousins and aunts and uncles would be coming over. Surprisingly, she and her mom had already had a talk about Dylan and her mom had finally come to the point of admitting she really couldn't offer Dylan anything other than the same old situation again so maybe it really was better for him to be in Texas. She'd made a comment about not really liking Dylan being around Mick, but Jade had let it slide, not wanting to get into it. She wasn't exactly on good terms with her father at this point either. Ben had been okay... he'd always been nice though, so Jade was alright with being around him again. Nobody really wanted her to live in Texas, but her mom had agreed maybe a change of scenery would be good - though she fully expected Jade to eventually return to Colorado for college. The only one totally opposed to Texas was Jade's grandmother, who had nothing good to say about it at all, let alone Mick. Comments were made that Jade never should have had to put up with, but not wanting to be miserable, she'd kept her mouth shut. Seeds of doubt had been planted, but so far none had thwarted any plans too severely.

Then there was Dan. Jade's mom had seemed to find a little romance amusing, but Jade had the feeling that she had no idea how serious she really was about it. She missed Dan something awful just being gone this short amount of time. She liked Texas, she liked the ranch, and she really did want to get on better terms with her father. But it was Dan whom she'd fallen in love with, and he was a pretty major puzzle piece in her deciding to return to Texas for good. She hadn't told her mom about the conflict with her dad and Dan... but she'd already made up her mind that if her dad wouldn't let her live on the ranch as long as she was dating Dan, she'd find a place as close as she could. At least it would be closer than Colorado.

"Jade!"

"Huh?"

"I've been calling you!" Her mother sets her hands on her hips, mildly annoyed though she chuckles. "Where's your head today, hmm? Come to the kitchen and help me."

Long Night

Looking back to her Uncle Bree gives a little shrug. For a moment she'd had the energy to get up and go after Trent. Trying to offer words that would help, but now...now she was just back to the state she was before.

"Same old same old. I just had something I needed to do."

Looking out the windows again Bree study the stars some more as the melody Jason's played seemed soothing in the background.

Leaning her head into Ryder Thirteen just soaked up his comfort. She wanted to stay up longer incase Trent came back but her eyes wanted so badly to close over the emotional strain. Maybe it was best if she did go to sleep. She new who her father was now, and if he didn't want anything more to do with her at least she could tell people she new him.

"I guess...I should head back to my bunk. Not sure if I want to sleep yet but...maybe just some time alone with you would be nice."

Thirteen tryed to gives Ryder the best smile she could but it was hard. She was more confused now than she had been before. Would things work out? Would her father talk to her again. Letting out a sigh Thirteen stands, waiting for Ryder to walk with her.

Rosetta new her brother felt bad, She didn't want him to. There had been worse things she had delt with even if she acted like this was the end of the world. Its was just everything going on at once, and trying to hold it all together was hard.

Sitting down across from Eric, she scooted over a little so Jeff could join them if he liked too. The night was far from over, and in a way Rosetta was happy about that even if her eyes showed signs of a little tiredness setting in.

"I couldn't go to bed now if I wanted to. There is to much to do once the others are asleep. Not to mention my brother whom I haven't seen in a while and I though could possible be dead is here again. I think its catching up time."

Thoughts

Not having heard anyone come in the barn, Bree's voice causes Trent to jerk to attention. Looking over at her, his eyes hold his surprise. Not only was he surprised anyone was out here, but he was doubly surprised it was her. He knew about her and why she was here, and he had probably exchanged all of three words with her this whole time. What could she possibly have to say to him?

Remaining quiet, Trent just lets her talk. It must have been quite obvious, the situation with Thirteen. For a stranger to pick up on what was going on. But then... what other conclusions could someone draw from seeing a father unwilling to recognize his daughter? The scene had spoken for itself. Realizing that Bree had figured out much of it left Trent with a more severe churning in his stomach. If it had been that obvious, he really must have done a bang up job on the whole thing.

His eyes fall to the floor, but he doesn't move to leave. By now, he felt pretty numb, so Bree's words didn't sting too much. It was apparent that Bree herself had had a rough upbringing and somehow could relate to not being loved. Is that really what Thirteen felt? Unloved? Father or not, Trent was a stranger to her. How could she expect love from a man who didn't even know her? Yet was that the small pang in his heart?

Trent leans his head back to rest against the wall. What did Thirteen want answers to? The past? He probably couldn't answer half of those questions anyway. What could be accomplished by digging it all up again? She'd had a bad past, his hadn't been great... why rehash it? Was it really that important like Bree was assuming? Trent could remember a time that he had wondered about his own parents. But he'd also seen the harsh reality that sometimes parents just don't care enough or have higher priorities than their children. He'd never want to go back and try to build a relationship with that. He'd never want to try just to be hurt again and again and again.

He'd seen it happen with kids who'd come to the ranch from bad family situations. No matter what, they'd always return to their mother or father, just to be hurt again. Trent had always wished he could get them to understand it wasn't worth it. But instead, everyone else who knew better could only stand back and wince as it happened all over again.

It didn't make much sense to him, and here was Thirteen, his own daughter, saying she loved him and wanted to be with him, when it was obvious he had intentionally kept her at arm's length. Didn't she know she was better off keeping her distance? Maybe she wanted answers and she had some romantic idea about what a father should be... but the truth of the matter was that he wasn't father material and there was nothing romantic about this whatsoever. It wasn't a storybook world and Prince Charmings didn't exist. It was reality. And the fact of the matter was that Trent felt in no way to be adequate enough to be a father.

Even so... he couldn't deny that little pang in his heart. He cared and he knew it. That's why he'd gone to her in the first place. That's why he'd sent Ryder money to make sure she was well taken care of. That's why he'd given her a nice Christmas gift. But she had a very childlike view of what a parent should be and Trent wasn't so sure he could live up to any expectations at all.

All of a sudden, Trent realizes that he's alone. For how long, he didn't even know. But Bree had disappeared as quietly as she'd appeared, her words still lingering in his mind.

Sighing, he stands up and wanders to the door. He was beginning to feel the cold and he couldn't remember when he'd felt so weary. Back outside, it's to his bunkhouse this time. Inside out of the wind, he lies down on his bed and pulls a blanket over himself, not bothering to undress.


JT is surprised when Bree excuses herself, but he lets her go, trusting she was safe and knew where she was going. Lost in thought for a while, it's not long before his niece is back again and he offers her a small smile, though again she'd become so quiet. He missed her perky mood.

"You okay?"


"Hey, hey, shhh." Ryder rocks Thirteen a little. "Nothing was your fault, okay? You didn't ruin anybody's evening. See?" He points to where Jason was starting to play his guitar again. "Everything is just fine and nobody blames you for anything." He kisses her head again, wanting her to just have a good time, but that was a lot to ask at this point. "You wanna stay here and sing a little more, or you want me to take you back to your bunk?"


Eric tries to give Rosetta a smile, though he did feel badly about his reaction. He shouldn't have hit Trent no matter how upset he was, and he knew he'd just added fuel to the fire whether his sister would say it or not.

"Thanks... I'm glad to be back...." He looks at her a bit ruefully. "Couldn't you tell?"

Sighing, he takes a sip of coffee, enjoying the warm drink. "Long night or short night, Sis?" He did wonder if they would be staying up late to talk later, or if Rosetta thought it best just to break up for the night.

...Like Me...

Walking the commotions from the quiet corner she had been sitting at Bree was silent. Her own sorrow, and problems seeming so far away now as she focused on someone else pain. She couldn't help but understand where Thirteen was coming from. Though for a much different reason she new what it was like to not have the love of a parent. And at the same time, she did feel a little bit bad for Trent too.

Looking to her Uncle Bree lets him know she would be back. Why she wanted to go after Trent she wasn't sure but after spending the last week maybe even longer here she had observed in her quiet hours of sitting. Everyone deserved love.

Slipping out of the dinning hall Bree scanned the ranch. Half looking for where Trent might have went, and half making sure it would be safe to go after him. Though the ranch was well lit with everyone still awake, Bree new she had to observe her surroundings anyways. Seeing the quick light from the one far barn as the door opened Bree new where Trent had gone.

Slowly making her way off the porch Bree could feel herself shake just a little. Why she was doing this, she still wasn't really sure but it felt like, like maybe she could help someone else so they didn't have to go through the heartache she did. Finally reaching the barn Bree quietly slips through the door and closes it behind her shutting out the bitter cold. Scanning the area she see Trent on the hay bail and walks to one of the stalls closest to him. Quiet for a long moment she just watches him as her words form in her mind. What she wanted to say she wasn't sure, and where the words came from she didn't know. Bree told herself she wouldn't stay long. Her Uncle would be worried, and she was without her jacket as well. She might be depressed but the last thing she wanted to to freeze to death.

"The love of a family is something we all want to have. To some its right in reach, and to others its so far away. I can see why Thirteen wants to know you so bad, all my life I wanted to know my parents, I wanted there love and I never got it, I know now I probably never will."

Letting out a sigh it was hard for Bree to admit that out loud. She'd never said those words before, not even to her Uncle. Now saying them to a stranger...it felt so odd. Leaning against the stall railing Bree picked at the wood.

"She loves you so much, and she hardly knows you but maybe deep down even if she cant remember, there is a link, a bond that she does know you and she just wants your love in return. She doesn't hate you, she just doesn't understand, she has questions only you can answer and there is nothing wrong with that. If anyone should ease her mind and answer them it should be you."

Bree finally looks up at Trent, her own eyes were dry, and her face held no real emotion. But if one looked deep enough into her eyes they could see the glossy glow, and the power that she really did believe in what she said. There also seemed to be an unknown wisdom there far beyond her years.

"If there was ever a time in your life to make things right again this is the time. Just don't abandon you daughter now that she knows you and deny her the one things she so desperately wants, and needs...if you do...she'll end up like me, and thats not entirely a good thing."

Giving the wood she had been picking at a gentile slap and looking around the barn for a moment. Her words had seemed so powerful that it even scared her a little never saying things like that to anyone before.

Pushing off the railing Bree didn't know what else could be said. She only hoped her words had touched Trent's heart, and he would reconsider getting to know his daughter. Every child needed there dad, every woman needed there father, and it would be horrible for another person to finish there life without.

Turning Bree makes her way out of the barn once again. This time taking in a long deep breath of air ans the wind stung her face. Though it was cold it felt good as a single treat rolled down her face. Taking a quick moment to look up at the stars Bree new Gunner was under the same ones, and it gave her a tiny bit of comfort thought he was far away, he was still with her.

Making her way back to the dinning hall Bree slips back in returning to the table she spend so much time at when she wasn't cooped up in the little room. Returning her gaze to the marks on the table Bree said nothing about where she went it wasn't a conversation that should be spread around.

Sitting so still close to Ryder at the table Thirteen can't help the tears that came from her eyes. She didn't care who was around and who was watching, She'd come so far, and now everything was a mess. She wanted it to happen so much differently.

Seeing her dad get slugged by Eric it had sent chills through her as she tryed to block it out of her mind. She wanted good memories of her family, and so far it hadn't gone at all like she hopped. Did she makes thing worse?

"I'm....sorry...I just..."

Thirteen sniffs between her tears.

"...I...ruined everyone's night."

Turned around and looking over the back of the couch Katie hated to be nosy but this had to do with her family too. Pulling on Jason's strained emotions Katie felt so bad for Thirteen and Trent. In a way she couldn't help this was a little bit of her own fault.

I can't even imagine how she feels right now J. I feel so bad for her.

Turning back around and slidding back down on the couch Katie gives a nod to Jason.

Come on lets try and lighten the mood a little.

Leaning into Jeff a little bit Rosetta felt so numb. She didnt know what to do and her heart ached for Trent, and for Thirteen. What was she to say to them? She didnt know how to fix this mess.

"Ok!"

Hanging Eric his coffee Rosetta lays a hand on her brothers shoulder. They would talk a little later over some more coffee once the other had gone to bed.

"Its ok Eric, I am still happy you home."

Temper

With every one of Thirteen's words, Trent feels like he's being kicked in the gut over and over. Each heartfelt phrase drove spikes into his heart... his wretched heart that had caused this mess. Oh, if only years ago he had been wiser.

His eyes stay on the floor and he makes no move. He doesn't look up at Thirteen, but stands as a beaten man, the only sign of life being the red heat crawling into his face. What could he possibly say? There was nothing... nothing at all that could even do justice. He had no reasons. He had no answers. He stood here as a man condemned for his ways, in front of the entire family. He had failed. Years ago, and today. And he had no idea how he could ever fix it again.

Seeing that Trent made no move to even respond to Thirteen, Eric gives Ryder a look and toss of his head to signal he should take Thirteen away. Ryder understands and gently takes Thirteen's arms, pulling her back from Trent.

"Come on," he prompts gently. "It's okay. Come with me." Guiding her away, he takes her back to where they'd been sitting, easing her down next to him. Putting his arm around her, he rubs her arm and kisses the top of her head. "It's gonna be okay. You didn't do anything wrong, alright?" He only wished he could take her pain away.

Once Thirteen has moved out of the way, Eric steps up to his brother. "So you're just gonna stand there, huh?" he hisses. "You're gonna stand there and say nothing to your own daughter. Hasn't she suffered enough? Isn't going through heck and back once enough?"

No response. "Look at me," Eric begs, but Trent would not. "You selfish-" Cutting his own words off, he hauls back with his right arm, coming in with a strong fist to Trent's mouth.

Trent's head jerks and he stumbles back a step, but he makes no move to retaliate. Emotions flood his eyes but he still does not look up to meet anyone's gaze. He could feel all of their stares and could feel the condemnation for secrets he had kept. Licking blood from his lip, his head is still bent as he slowly turns around. Not bothering to get his jacket from the other side of the room, he slowly goes out the door into the cold night air.

Eric's fists are still balled at his sides, his temper flaring. Once Trent is gone though, he lets out his breath, feeling stupid. He looks to Rosetta with a mix of sadness and guilt. "I'm sorry," he apologizes. "I just... couldn't take it." Retreating to his chair, he sits down again, pain shooting through his leg and he winces, trying to settle down again before he injured himself further.

Ryder had heard a continuing argument and had looked up in time to see Trent get slugged. Though a part of him cheered, another part of him felt pain for this man. How could someone live like he had? How far did someone have to let their heart go before denying their own blood?

Sometime amidst the whole episode, Jeff had wandered closer, and now puts an arm around Rosetta's shoulders. They all knew how hard she was trying to make this a good Christmas despite the bad, but it wasn't made easy when things like this happened. "Come on," he coaxes. "Let's sing some more songs and make the best of it, okay?"


By this time, the music had ceased and Jason's emotions were strained.

Well... that went poorly. I never thought Thirteen would come to any conclusions on her own, let alone the one she did about Eric. Crap, she must feel awful.


Clint's eyes were still wide as he looks to Wendy and blinks. Trent had a daughter? Thirteen was his daughter? The older generation didn't seem surprised... apparently they'd known about this? What really was going on? It looked as though Trent had kept everything a secret from Thirteen but it had apparently gone horribly wrong tonight. Clint looks down at Chase who was so tired he'd managed to fall asleep through the chaos. He couldn't imagine not claiming this child as his own. How had Trent done it?

He glances back to Wendy, sadness and confusion in his gaze. He'd thought secrets of the past were over. Apparently he'd been wrong.


Trent closes the door of the barn and leans back against it, holding his breath for longer than he should before letting it out slowly. He felt like he was gonna throw up and he was dizzy.

Wiping his lip again, his hand draws away just a little blood. He'd deserved the punch... he deserved more than that. If Eric had gone further, he probably wouldn't have fought back then either. If he'd been pummeled into the ground, it wouldn't have mattered. The shame he carried with him couldn't just be washed off with a few kind words. No... it was deeper than that. He'd brought disgrace to this family from day one, first by being with a woman in ways he shouldn't have, then by harming the family itself through the Agency, then by scarring the Pent name by being in prison, and now by turning away from his daughter.

Taking a shaky breath, Trent goes to a nearby straw bale to sit down, rest his elbows on his knees and bury his face in his hands. It was cold in here and he was without his jacket, but warmth was the farthest thing from his mind. All he could hope for by now was to leave quietly enough not to make any more disturbances.

Why?

Thirteen continued to smile as her just hugs the man she believed was her father. Feeling Ryder's hand on her shoulder Thirteen looks up a little not sure why it seemed like everyone else wasn't as excited as she was. Everything was so quiet, like everyone was waiting to see what would happen next.

Being pulled away from Eric and still smile Thirteen looks into his eyes, trying to soak what she could in. Letting her sudden second guess not pry its way in. This was her dad, it had to be, everything fit, and the feelings where there, they just had to be.

Listing to the words between Trent and Eric Thirteen became confused. She didn't understand what they were talking about, or even what there words meant. Continuing to look at them her eyes finally fall back to Eric again. She was more nervous now than before.

Hearing Eric's words Thirteen's heart sunk, he....wasn't her father? Than why the connections, why did she feel comfortable with him. She didn't understand and it made herself sad. She felt like an idiot now, making a fool of herself, but worse she hadn't found anyone. But as she is turned to look at Trent and hears Eric's words it seemed like as though Thirteen's heart stopped once again. She talked to him, he'd seen her, he new how much she wanted to know her father and yet...he was silent. Looking to Ryder Thirteen's eyes filled with tears, but reaching down she found her strength to take a few steps closer to Trent.

"You new how much I wanted to see you, You new how much I wanted dad and yet, you denied me of that? Why? I dont have a past besides a cold dark cell, because watching people die in front of me, there family begging to see there child again yet they never do. I have to live with those memories, with the dark pictures that run through my mind when I close my eyes. Hate anger, thats what my life was filled with. I should hate you because thats what I was trained to do, but I don't. Even if I don't understand I still love you and..."

Thirteen takes in a deep breath trying to control her emotions. She finally met her dad, she new who he was and she loved him. But still she didn't understand any of this.

"I wanted my own memories, my own family to push those out of my head. Its hard to answer questions truthful when people ask me at work about myself, I wanted to have stores like everyone else. But you denied me of that....Why? Were you ashamed of me? Didn't you love me?"

I'm not

Ryder tries to get a word in, but it just doesn't work. Thirteen was too excited and believed whole-heartedly that this was her father. Ryder's eyes drift to Trent, who wasn't making a move, and a slow anger burned deep down. This whole thing never would have gotten this far had Trent just told the truth.

Once Thirteen's announcement hits the air, eyes turn to the direction of the little group. Many knew that Trent was her father, but some had not been told yet, so the confusion was doubled.

Stunned, Eric doesn't know what to do as Thirteen leans down to hug him. The only thing he could feel was his heart being ripped in two. This was his niece and he knew it - and he hadn't been allowed to say so. Trent was standing not five feet away with his lips sealed against a truth he'd hidden all his life. And this poor girl thought she'd discovered a dream.

Gritting his teeth, Eric closes his eyes and slips his arms around Thirteen warmly. How could he give her such a shock as telling her she was wrong? She would heart broken and probably horribly embarrassed. If Eric could, he'd take her as his own right now just so he wouldn't have to break the truth to her.

Ryder opens his mouth to speak, but no words seem to be good enough. He looks to Rosetta helplessly, then Trent, then back down to Eric. Gently, he sets his hands down on Thirteen's shoulders. "Thirteen," he prompts quietly. "Come here, babe..."

Eric looks up at him and knows that the hard truth needed to be told. As gently as he could, he pries Thirteen away far enough he can see her face and he lifts his palm to wipe away some of her tears. So much life sparkled in her eyes.... so much hope... so much excitement at finding the one man she'd sought after. Eric's heart ached like nothing else.

Swallowing hard, he looks to his silent brother. "Well? You gonna just stand there, or are you going to help me out, brother?"

Trent takes a step backward, heat rising to his face. He could feel eyes on him from all directions. One could hear a pin drop. His mouth opens and closes again, the words stuck somewhere in his throat. His eyes drift to the floor.

Eric looks back to Thirteen, trying to shove aside the anger towards his brother so she didn't think he was mad at her too. "Thirteen... hon..." Though painful, he gets to his feet, sliding his arm around her shoulders and bending his neck to be close to her. If his brother didn't have the guts enough to admit he was her father, then he'd step up to the plate himself. Someone had to - it might as well be him.

"I need you to be really brave for me," he encourages. "'Cause sometimes in life... we don't always get what we want... and sometimes what we believe winds up not being quite what we thought it was. But lemme tell you something... It doesn't matter whose blood you have running through your veins. It's your heart that makes you you, and you can't ever let go of it."

Stepping back a little, he turns Thirteen to look her straight on, a hand on each of her shoulders. "I'm sorry... but I'm-."

"Stop," Trent interrupts. "Can you not-"

"What? Mind my own business?" Eric frowns at him. "Like that's easy at this point. You have robbed your family the joy of another member. You have stolen a relationship from the rest of us because you've been too scared or prideful to admit what you should have years ago. It's over, Trent."

He turns back to Thirteen. Emotions rise in his eyes as he looks into hers. This was his family... his niece. "I'm not your father, Thirteen." He shifts her to face Trent, and points to him. "He is."

Meet Dad

Thirteen couldn't even hear Ryder trying to stop her. She was to excited, and happy, everything else running through her mind. Everything she wanted to talk to Eric about, everything she wanted to ask and share. She couldn't help but shake just a little bit from excitement.

Coming in front of Eric again and smile down at him a little color coming to here cheeks. She was so excited and scared at the same time.

"Hi again. I wanted you to meet a very important person to me. This is my boyfriend Ryder."

Thirteen steps to the side for a moment so Eric could see Ryder better.

"Ryder, after all the searching this is my Dad."

Looking to Eric again Thirteen beams and nods to him.

"Its ok, no one told me...I guess it on my own that this was your gift to me. Thank you so much."

Letting go of Ryder's hand Thirteen wraps her arms gently around Eric in a loving embrace, a few tears roll from her eyes she was so happy.

Bringing Eric his coffee and seeing what was going on Rosetta's own heart sunk. Looking to Eric and than to Trent there was pain in her eyes. The young woman wanted to know her dad so bad, and now she thought she found him. What would it do to her heart when she found out it was not true.

Not sure

Ryder's eyes widen as he hears the conclusion that Thirteen had come to. Eric? She thought it was Eric? Given, she looked more like her uncle than her father, but how had she come to this? Just the ring and the timing? Ryder's heart sinks.

"Wait... just... slow down..." He's pulled up from his chair and across the room to Eric before he can stop her. "Thirteen, wait a second... he..." Brought to Eric, he looks helplessly at the man he didn't know. He looks to Trent who was still nearby, but receives no help.

Eric looks up from his table, a little surprised at the enthusiasm with which Ryder had been brought to him. At least he assumed the young man was the Ryder he'd been told about. "Hello again." He gives Thirteen a crooked grin. "You look better without those crocodile tears." Not really sure why she'd come back to him, he waits. "What's up?"

All the time

Thirteen smiles looking up at Ryder. He didn't know ether so of course he would be confused. After wanting to know him for so long, and coming up with dead ends Ryder would like to meet her dad as well, and she wanted to introduce Ryder to him.

"It's Eric. I know it is!! The ring, him showing up shortly after. He waited to tell me not because he is ashamed of me but because he wanted to give me an even bigger gift on this special day. Katie and Jason must have known and thats why they invite us."

A sudden light bulb goes off in her head as she looks around the room. She'd been with family this how time and didn't even know it. They were good at keeping secrets.

"Come on, I was to introduce you to him."

Taking Ryder's hand in her own he pulls him over to Eric a big smile on her face still waiting for him to finish talking so she didn't want to interrupt him.

Who?

"Mmm... hey, I'm okay." Eric returns Rosetta's hug warmly but carefully. He chuckles. "Yeah, two weeks minimum if you can put up with me for that long."

He nods gratefully. "Yeah, I haven't eaten all day... some coffee sounds mighty good."

Moving to the table, he bites his lip, limping to the nearest chair, not bothering to try and make it all the way to the group around the fire place. He waves to a few of the others and makes eye contact with Angel once, throwing her a look that says, I'll need to see you later.

Easing down in the seat, he takes his hat off and runs his fingers through his hair, glad to be home.


Ryder takes Thirteen's hand, a little confused at her change in attitude, though it was nice to see her smile after she'd been so down just a few minutes prior. Hearing her words though, his eyes flicker with even more confusion.

"What?" His eyes glance to Eric, then Trent, then back to Thirteen. "Well um..." Had Eric really told her? In a matter of seconds from seeing her for the first time? "Well who is it, hon?"

It's Ok

Looking up as the door opens Rosetta doesn't wast time getting to her brother. Throwing her arms gently around his neck as she didn't know him over she buried her face into his shoulder. She felt like it had been an eternity since she last saw him even if he had been gone longer before, but being so worried he was dieing somewhere was enough stress to make the time seem longer.

"Eric, I was so worried...I though...Oh Eric."

Burying her face a little bit more into Eric's shoulder Rosetta's worry is clear. She had been worried sick no matter how well she had it hiding. She was now happy her brother was home, and if he stayed around longer.

"You sticking around longer this time is definitely something I don't mind at all. Come on, sit down and let me get you something to eat."

Watching Rosetta and Eric walk off, Thirteen looks down to the ring she had on her finger giving an even bigger smile. She'd have to remember to thank Eric when she got a chance again.

Looking up again and finding Ryder's eyes Thirteen's own twinkle with life, and love. Her heart bubbling she had to go tell him. Things would be ok now. Giving his hand a gentil squeeze as she looks up at him Thirteen couldnt help her smile.

"Its ok now Ryder. I know who my dad is."

Obvious

Eric smiles as Thirteen gets up. "Aw, you don't thank me for nothin'."

He still holds her hand as they walk up the steps, him careful not to move too quickly. "There we go." Letting her go, he opens the door for her, glad to at least have gotten her out of the cold. He sensed immediately her sweet disposition and could feel the pain she had in her heart. Hearing about her before, he hadn't felt too much, but seeing her now, he wondered how Trent could ever keep silent. To not be able to embrace such a beautiful young woman as his own... it had to be torture.

Seeing the door open again and feeling the cold draft, several eyes look up from the group, Trent's included. "Eric!" He's on his feet in an instant, going to his brother. "Holy cow, you had us worried sick!"

Having his brother's hearty welcome, Eric teeters a little. "Easy, easy."

Trent's eyes were filled with worry and he looks over his shoulder to make sure Rosetta knew he was here too. Looking back to Eric, he then notices the bandage on his head. "You okay?"

"Yeah, why?"

"Well, we've been looking for your everywhere! I saw the accident on the tv and recognized your truck."

"Oh." Eric's eyes widen. "I didn't know that. My phone didn't make it and I didn't think anyone would know so I just came on in."

"So you're okay?"

"Uh, a little sore." Eric pats his tender leg that he didn't want anyone to see lest they demand he go back to the hospital. "Doctor said as long as I promised not to drive for two weeks and was assured that there was a doctor here, I could go."

He finds Rosetta, a crooked grin forming. "Guess you'll have me around a little longer this time."


Ryder sees Thirteen return and is relieved that she hadn't stayed outside too long. Seeing Eric too, he knew it had to be the missing brother - the resemblance was obvious and the reception gave it away. Catching Thirteen's eye, he cocks his head, giving her a gentle look that asked if she was okay.

Feeling

Looking up at Eric again Thirteen studys his face. Now that he was sitting next to her the light from inside reflected off his face and she could see him better. There was something about his face, a glint in his eye that she had seen before....she seen it in her own eye.

Letting him whip her tears is gave her a chance to look even closer at him as he leaned forward a little. Studying his face she couldn't help her heart seemed to race for a moment. There was just something about him that was comforting and that alone was strange to Thirteen, the only other person like that was Ryder.

"The...barn? I'll have to remember that."

Giving a long sigh Thirteen looks out into the dark for a long moment. Trying to straighten her own mind out so she could go back inside she turns her head looking at Eric's hand for a long moment. Finally reaching out and placing her hand in his Thirteen stands.

"O..ok, I'll walk in with you. Thanks Eric."

Giving a smile Thirteen leads the way back inside, this time her head held high though her eyes were still a little confused she felt better already.

Attempted comfort

Eric's heart went out to the young woman before him, and now he knew without a doubt who it was. At first he thought surely since she was here, she now knew Trent was her father, but her words proved otherwise.

Seeing more tears, he immediately sets his bag down and moves closer to her, but is careful, not wanting to scare her. "Hey, it's alright," he croons. "The people in there - they're just trying to be nice." He really had no idea what had gone on, so he was winging it, pulling out everything he could think of to comfort Thirteen and get her back inside.

"When they ain't had a hole in their hearts like that, it's kinda hard for them to relate, ya know? So they just go on and try to patch it up best they know how." He reaches in his back pocket to pull out a faded bandanna. Slowly extending it to Thirteen's face, he wipes away a few of her tears.

"Well I'm Eric, and it's nice to meet you, Thirteen. I'm right glad I came around when I did, otherwise you mighta been a frozen popsicle if I'da come later." He grins a little, cocking his head. "But it is cold out here, whether you can feel it or not, and there's nothing about tears to be ashamed of." He winks at her. "Next time though, take my advice go straight for the barn. With everybody else inside, all the barn's got is a bunch of horses who don't mind a bit if someone cries in front of them. Matter of fact, I think they kinda lend a hand on the feeling better side of things." He lowers his voice almost to a whisper. "I know that from experience... but don't tell nobody."

Drawing back he tucks the bandanna back in his pocket and offers a hand instead. "They're probably not expecting me," he explains. "Probably think I'm not gonna make it for Christmas, bein' so late, so I'm a little scared to walk in there myself and break up the party. You wouldn't walk in there with me, would you?"


Feeling Dalton put him in a headlock, Carson gives a yell, trying to battle back, but it's hard around the furniture, not to mention Dalton's size.

Once the couch is free and Dalton is seated, Dani runs and jumps in next to him, sideways so she's leaning back against him with her feet taking up the rest of the couch. Laughing at her brother, her face flushes a little, the amusement in her eyes.

"I'll be a lassoed mongoose." Carson puts his hands on his hips. "I can't believe you-" He gets cut off by Misty's invitation to the big chair and he quirks an eyebrow, sauntering over to her. "I don't know about you, but I don't plan on getting squished. C'mhere you crazy sheila."

Yanking Misty out of the chair, he swings her out of the way and picks her up off the floor. Setting himself down in the chair, he lands Misty in his lap and swivels the chair around to face the television. "Now behave yourself or I'll kick you off."

Dani can't help her laughter and she shifts around to get more comfortable on the couch that was now hers and Dalton's. Resting her head on his shoulder, she steals a kiss to his cheek before slipping her hand into his.

Slipping his good arm around Jess, Axel lets her lean into him, giving her a sidelong glance and a faint smile, letting her know he was quite content in this position as well. "Now that we're all comfortable..." He clears his throat. "Someone want to start the movie?"

Both Nights Move One!

Giving a little sniff Thirteen jumps when she hears someone's voice that she wasn't to certain she new. Just look up at him for a long moment Thirteen didn't know what to say. She didn't know who he was though something about him seemed familiar. A strange pull that made her want to talk to this man.

"I...got a gift today from someone who wont let me know them so I can't even say thank you. I just want to meet him once, even if he never want to see me again after that. Everyone has a right to know there family ya know? Ryder says I should be thankful for the friends I have, and they are my family. But...there is still that hole in my heart."

Looking down at the ring on her finger again Thirteen can feel her eyes start to fill again. She'd grown close to Ryder and a few other people had become friends. Everyone here at the ranch was nice and treated her like family, but they didn't understand, her whole life she didn't know anything about it. Her last name, her mother, father, her childhood has always been the Agency, she didn't even know if there was anything before that.

Looking up at the stranger again it was to dark to be able to make out his face to well, but something didn't make her want to fear him. And why she told him everything she just did she didn't know.

"I can't feel the cold out here at the moment. I just wanted some air is was so stuffy in there and I...don't like when anyone but Ryder see me cry, and..now you."

Letting out a long sigh Thirteen tried to study the mans face in the dark. There was still something about him that made Thirteen wonder. Almost like she already new him, But from what she could tell she never met him.

"I'm Thirteen, and I don't know my last name."

Everyone helped finish getting the food ready and bringing it into the other room to set on the coffee table. A small cooler filled with ice, beer and soda set next to the table so when they wanted something to drink no one had to go far. The gifts sat on the ground on the other end for later.

Laughter filled the air as everyone helped. The girls making sure every little detail was right, and the guys just picking on them about it being all perfect.

Finally when all is ready the group heads into the living room taking there seats for the night. Seeing Carson clam the couch Dalton just looks at Dani raising an eyebrow before a grin form on his face.

Coming up behind Carson quietly it was amazing a man of Dalton's size could sneak around. Bringing his arms up and around Carson's head Dalton puts him in a headlock gently as not to pop his head off. Pulling him off the couch he can't help but laugh.

"Hey, your sister gave me full permition to move anyone who sits in out spots. So I was just following her orders."

Laughing again Dalton finally lets go of Carson and slips into the spot on the couch waiting for Dani to sit next to him.

"Ohh, you got the spot warm for me thank you."

Not being able to help the humor she found in someone putting Carson in a head lock and actually making him look semi small Misty lets out a loud laugh. Humor laced her eyes thinking the whole thing was funny.

Pattin the arm chair on she shakes her head looking at Carson. Raising and lowering her eyebrows a little she can't help it.

"Why don't you come here and sit with me sexy, we can squish on this chair together."

Laughing herself Jess gently sits down next to Axel out the love seat. Wrapping her one arm around him and the other on his chest she leans her head into him completely comfortable.

All kinds of feelings

Being drawn into Dalton's arms, Dani grins, never tiring of his big strong arms and the way it felt like she was in a safe haven every time he embraced her. His comment brings color to her face and she looks up at him, her blushing cheeks bringing out her blue eyes. "Thank you."

Her hand smooths out a crease in his shirt and she smiles. "You look pretty handsome yourself, you know that?"

Sliding her hand down to his, her palm is enveloped by his own. "I told Carson we had dibs on the couch." She giggles. "So if anybody sits in our spot... you'll have to move them."


"Mmm..." Axel returns Jess' light kiss, putting an arm around her waist. "I'm feeling better now that you're here." He grins, giving a little shrug. He knew she'd want a better answer than that. "I'm doing alright. Hand kinda hurts at the moment, but I've been swinging my arm around more than I should have too."

His eyes dance with humor. "Now that you're here though, you can do my running around for me. So don't tell Misty."


"Hello." Carson laughs and slips both arms around Misty as she kisses him then leans on his chest. He sighs deeply, content in the moment. There weren't too many times he liked getting together with other people, but the six of them here he liked very much, and it was nice they could spend Christmas Eve together. Carson couldn't remember too many good Christmases, and this year meant just a little more to him after his life change. It felt good. It felt right.

Pulling away, Carson steers Misty to the kitchen counter. "Help me finish up here and we can go pick a movie and gorge ourselves on food."


Jason grins as his fingers strum his guitar and his eyes finally find Katie again.

Well, I'm glad you like listening. I guess I don't mind so much getting asked to play... if it makes someone smile, then it's worth it. Good practice anyway.

He winks at her as the current song comes to an end.

Do a poor fellow a favor and bring him some eggnog?


Watching Thirteen open her small gift, Ryder can feel his blood pressure rise. It wasn't the gift itself - it looked like a very nice ring, and it was very pretty on Thirteen's hand. But he knew who had given it to her. Who else wouldn't have signed it? It was to "Thirteen" and not "Jasmine" but it didn't matter - Ryder knew.

And when Thirteen looks to him with question, he wants so badly to tell her who it was from. He wanted to tell her that the father she was looking for was right across the room and that these people here... half of them really were her family. But he couldn't. He'd made a promise that he couldn't break. So instead, it was his heart that broke as he watched her walk away.

Turning, he scans the others until his eyes meet Trent's. A blazing stare is shot in his direction, confirming his disapproval of how it had been handled. Ryder knew good and well that Trent cared. It had been a nice gift to Thirteen. But how he did it was the problem and Ryder could strangle him for it.

Trent feels someone's eyes on him and he looks up in time to see Thirteen disappearing out the door, with Ryder in the forefront, glaring at him. Trent immediately drops his gaze and sinks back a little farther from the others. He hadn't meant to upset her... he'd wanted to give her something nice since she'd grown up with so little. He just wanted her to have something special that would last. He just... hadn't been able to sign his name to it. It looked like he should have just refrained from the whole idea though. It hurt to think that he'd made things worse.


The wind was howling outside, rattling the windows and making everyone glad they were indoors. One was outside though, stepping out of the taxi, paying and being extra careful on the ice. He slings his backpack over his shoulder and slowly limps to the porch, his head bent against the wind.

Through his jeans, no one would be able to tell the outside of his left leg was black and blue from hip to ankle - it had been a miracle no bones had been broken with bruising so deep. A small bandage on the side of his head could just be seen sticking out from his red baseball cap. He should have stayed at the hospital, but he'd put up enough fuss that they'd release him on a few conditions that he'd promised.

Making it to the steps, he almost misses the figure sitting huddled with her head down. That wasn't right... he could see through the window and could tell that the celebration was going on, but what was this young woman doing out here all by herself?

"Say now..." Eric leans on the railing, favoring his sore leg. "It's too cold for you to be out here like this." He smiles gently, unable to help but notice the striking family resemblance. Immediately he wonders if he knows who this is. "They didn't kick you out, did they?" He tries to tease as a way to coax her back inside - it really was cold out tonight and he hated to think of anyone sitting out here, let alone by themselves.

Confustion

Sitting with the large group Rosetta does her best to just let her mind focus on the family, the group together. For everyone sake and for BJs. This was his first Christmas at the ranch and the last thing she wanted to do was rune it for him.

Sing the songs Rosetta hold the small boy close helping him with the words and laughing softly as he tried to sing his little heart out. But soon, as more food came, and movies played, gifts were given BJ couldn't contain his excitement and wanted to be right in the middle of the action jumping off and couch. Rosetta just smiled as he opened his gifts and showed her what he got, watching him, he really had gown in the last few months.

Faith finds herself sitting on one of the chairs closest to where Sparky was, yet still far enough away she couldn't just reach out and touch him. Her eyes were continuously on him, only once and while leave to just glance around the room. She loved being here, she loved listing to Sparky, simply she loved him.

Don't mess up, oh oh....ahhhh....

Katie couldn't help but mess around a little bit with Jason while he was up there playing. She new, he hadn't really wanted to, and that what she was doing would have been enough to make him mess up. So if this made him smile than her mission was complete.

Mmm...I love listen to you play Jason...it sounds so soothing.

Keeping his arm tightly around his wife and daughter Wes enjoys the time they have. Once he was gone he didn't know how long it would be or what would happen. He worried so much about his family, and no one had any idea how much he didn't want to go. But he new he had no choose in the matter. He had to go when he was called. So he would soak up all the family time he could right now. The laughs, the smiles, the jokes. His family was what was most important and if he couldn't take them with him, at least he could take his memories to get him through those long nights.

Giving Cindy a kiss on the top of the head Wes tilts his head a little to look down at her and smile. His eyes giving a twinkling showing his love for his family.

"I love you Cindy!!"

Sitting in the dinning room Bree still had the far away look in her eye. Her mind was bouncing from one thing to another. Being out here with everyone listing to the music it only made her think of the one thing she didn't have. Maybe tomorrow JT would be able to get someone to talk with Gunner, than maybe if she talked to him things would be better. Bree could only hope with all her heart, that her Christmas wish would come true.

As the single gift is handed to Thirteen she holds it for a longest moment. She fingers the paper, and the ribbon that added to it. She'd never been given a gift before and for a moment it was almost like she was in shock.

Finally though her fingers find the edges of the paper. Sliding her fingers under it gently she lifts the table from all the side till she is holding the soft box in her hands. Opening it and seeing the ring that lied in the velvet cloth Thirteen felt like all the air had been sucked from her lungs. Words would not come, as there was a glint of a tear in her eye. Fingers trembling she let them brush over the diamonds and the green color stone that was set in the middle. It was so pretty, and she'd never been given something like this before.

Looking up her eyes find Ryder there was question on her face who had given this to her? And in the pit of her stomach she new. It was a feeling that was strong.

Moving her head to look down again Thirteen had a large amount of emotions built inside of her. Taking the ring from the box her fingers still trembled, gently she slipped in on her finger. Holding out her hand to look at it, the light seeming to bounce off of it.

She wanted to say thank you, but who was she to thank? She wanted to feel happier than she did, but still there was the lingering feeling, the empty hole of where this ring had come from.

Standing Thirteen looks around the room quick and than looks to Ryder. She needed some fresh air, and if she was going to cry anymore she'd rather not do it in front of everyone and rune there nice time. Moving to the door Thirteen exits but doesn't go far. Finding the steps she sits down her face in her hands. Everything felt so good, yet so confusing at the same time.

Dalton can't help but raise an eye brown as Dani goes darting from one room the to the next, happing to look down the hall at just the right time. Feeling a bit of color crawl up the back of his neck as he looks away quickly not being able to stumble over his words.

"I...um....I...di...did know what you...wanted me...to..."

Dalton gives a cough trying to straighten out his own words. Roll his eyes at himself he looks up at Carson again.

"I didn't know what you all liked to drink so I have some beer, and a few kinds of soda. I hope that's ok."

As Carson takes a few thing from him Dalton gives a laugh and follows into the kitchen the other two girls close behind.

Coming up to Axel Jess gives a smile and shakes her head a little. Wrapping her arms around his neck to him him a nice long hug.

"If we didn't preen than you would think we didn't care and that would be a horrible lie."

Pulling away from the hug Jess gives Axel a little kiss on the lips before looking into his eyes her smile never fading.

"How are you feeling?"

Depositing what she had herself Misty puts the bags of gifts on the floor and food on the counter. Turning around and bumping right into Carson she gives a little blink before as smile forms on her own face.

"Why hello there."

Giving Carson a kiss and leaning into his chest Misty gives a giggle leaning her head on his shoulder. She was so happy to be spending this time with the group of friends that had formed. Alone time with Carson was always better but that would have a lot of time for that late. Now was the time to shair laughs and joy with others.

Hearing Dani's voice Dalton turns around a big grin on his face. He always loved seeing Dani, her smiling face, it was one of the best things Dalton had in his life.

Taking her in his arms Dalton gives her a hug resting his head on top of hers. Taking in the smell of her shampoo. Finally letting her go Dalton looks down into her eyes his own giving a twinkle.

"You look beautiful."