Ryan can't help but laugh again as her brother takes the pictures. This was defiantly a memories worth having not to mention Scarlet couldn't miss out on it. Pictures were better than nothing.
"This is going to be great, totally priceless. He sure will learn not to mess with a McKade, or anyone we care about."
Taking another look at the car and letting her brother snap more pictures Ryan places the tarp over the car again. It didn't even look like the same car anymore except for the license plate that was Roth's trade mark.
Pulling out her cell phone she gives a smerk to her brother. Ryan had given Alec one of her old phones to barrow so she didn't have to go through TJY lines whenever she wanted to talk to him.
"I'll text him and see what he says about coming out tonight."
Hey Hot stuff, Eli and I were wondering if you were gonna make it tonight. Have some stuff we could use an extra pare of hands on and were hopping that would be you. Let me know...ttyl ~*~Ry~*~
Ryan new her message was a little cryptic but Alec would understand. That way if anyone happened to intercept it that wouldn't know what was going on.
"Ok, its sent now I just need to wait for a reply. Are we finished here or do we have more to do? You've deprived me of lunch and now I am starving."
Laying in a grassy spot by the lake Katie's head rested in Jason's lap as the soft breeze blew. Lunch had of been good and now just a little time to relax was even better. Turning her head to look at Jason just a little Katie smile her eyes twinkling in the sun.
"So I was thinking about taking a few days vacation time and maybe going out to the ranch just to see everyone. I though maybe you would like to come too. Seeing your mom would be nice and maybe having dinner with her even better since Wes was gone. What do you think?"
Katie new Jason liked seeing his mom and she liked seeing her family too. Not to mention she had been missing them a little with the nice weather coming. If Jason would come too it would be all to perfect but she wasn't sure if he wanted to or not.
Laying in one lounge chairs by the pool after swimming for at least an hour now Destiny was just relaxing and soaking up some sun. Her eyes closed but far from sleeping her mind was just traveling from one thing to the next. Tomorrow, tonight, The Agency, what would happen when this was all over.
Moving her head a little and opening one eye to look at Chance she gives a smile before reaching out and giving his arm a little push.
"Hey, I just wanted to say thanks for this. Its nice to free my mind even if its just for a little bit."
She was thankful for it, and thought it was pretty nice of Chance to get her mind off things. Not many people would of thought of that, but he had.
6/14/10
File
Justin gives Beth a little wave, waiting to sigh until she was gone. Zora rests her head on his lap and gives a small whine. He pats her and nods. "Yeah... I know. This one's gonna stay at arm's length, isn't she?"
He stares after Beth, his mind wandering. He would probably continue to ask her if she wanted to do things with him... but he wondered if it really was just wasting his breath. Whether he'd made a mistake yesterday or not, he was convinced that even if it had never happened, nothing would be different anyway. "I don't know if I should try for more or not. I guess if she wants to stay away then there's not much I can do about it, huh?"
Zora licks his hand and cocks her head as if wondering what exactly he was talking about that shifted his mood.
"Why can't I just let things go, hmm?" Sighing again, Justin finally stands up, gathering his backpack and leashes. "Come on, girls. Lets go home."
Eli grins and moves to the side where he retrieves a camera. "She won't be back by race time tomorrow... but that doesn't mean she won't get to visualize Roth's face when she sees our beautiful artwork."
Stepping back a couple paces, he snaps a few pictures of the car at good angles to catch the flowers and especially the hood. "Captured in time forever. Priceless. Now... can you get a hold of Alec to see if he's gonna make it tonight? You and I can pull it off ourselves but it would be nice to have a third person and if he can't sneak out, we need to nab someone else."
Reese makes his way from Angelica's office, grinning a little to himself before getting his mind back on task. Heading to his own office, opening the door, he stops short, seeing Alec at the filing cabinet. "Oh, I didn't realize this was public property."
Alec looks up casually, folder in hand. "It's not. I was snooping."
"And may I ask what for?" Reese does his best to keep his temper as he crosses his arms.
Alec shrugs. "Wanted to finish up that report but I forgot the names you wanted me to check into. You were gone so I figured I could find it in here somewhere." His eyes go back to the file he was holding. "You know, I did find it interesting that-"
"I don't care if I'm gone or not," Reese cuts him off sternly. "You do not come in here and just start taking things." He approaches and grabs the file out of Alec's hand to see what it was. It wasn't anything too important, but it was the principle of the thing.
Alec shrugs lamely. "Whatever. Get me the stuff then."
Reese's eyes narrow. "You know... I'm this close to letting you go, but with an attitude like that, you're not making it easy for me."
Alec holds up his hands then lets his arms drop. "I don't think I'll ever please you, Reese, so maybe you should just stop trying to make that happen." He scowls, frustrated with his whole situation. "I'll be downstairs if you want me to ever finish that project." Spinning on his heel, he stalks out.
Reese groans and tosses the file aside, flopping down in his chair.
He stares after Beth, his mind wandering. He would probably continue to ask her if she wanted to do things with him... but he wondered if it really was just wasting his breath. Whether he'd made a mistake yesterday or not, he was convinced that even if it had never happened, nothing would be different anyway. "I don't know if I should try for more or not. I guess if she wants to stay away then there's not much I can do about it, huh?"
Zora licks his hand and cocks her head as if wondering what exactly he was talking about that shifted his mood.
"Why can't I just let things go, hmm?" Sighing again, Justin finally stands up, gathering his backpack and leashes. "Come on, girls. Lets go home."
Eli grins and moves to the side where he retrieves a camera. "She won't be back by race time tomorrow... but that doesn't mean she won't get to visualize Roth's face when she sees our beautiful artwork."
Stepping back a couple paces, he snaps a few pictures of the car at good angles to catch the flowers and especially the hood. "Captured in time forever. Priceless. Now... can you get a hold of Alec to see if he's gonna make it tonight? You and I can pull it off ourselves but it would be nice to have a third person and if he can't sneak out, we need to nab someone else."
Reese makes his way from Angelica's office, grinning a little to himself before getting his mind back on task. Heading to his own office, opening the door, he stops short, seeing Alec at the filing cabinet. "Oh, I didn't realize this was public property."
Alec looks up casually, folder in hand. "It's not. I was snooping."
"And may I ask what for?" Reese does his best to keep his temper as he crosses his arms.
Alec shrugs. "Wanted to finish up that report but I forgot the names you wanted me to check into. You were gone so I figured I could find it in here somewhere." His eyes go back to the file he was holding. "You know, I did find it interesting that-"
"I don't care if I'm gone or not," Reese cuts him off sternly. "You do not come in here and just start taking things." He approaches and grabs the file out of Alec's hand to see what it was. It wasn't anything too important, but it was the principle of the thing.
Alec shrugs lamely. "Whatever. Get me the stuff then."
Reese's eyes narrow. "You know... I'm this close to letting you go, but with an attitude like that, you're not making it easy for me."
Alec holds up his hands then lets his arms drop. "I don't think I'll ever please you, Reese, so maybe you should just stop trying to make that happen." He scowls, frustrated with his whole situation. "I'll be downstairs if you want me to ever finish that project." Spinning on his heel, he stalks out.
Reese groans and tosses the file aside, flopping down in his chair.
6/13/10
Vacation
"Because if I didn't anyone could walk in at any moment, and well...that might be a little embarrassing for us both."
Giving one last squeeze to Reese Angelica lets go and backs up a few steps. Bringing her hand to Reese face one more time to run her thumb over his cheek she lets her hand fall. Moving back to her desk and sitting down she gives a nod.
"I look forward to dinner tonight. I'll make sure we talk about work before we leave as well so our night is not interrupted with work."
Giving a wink to Reese and a smile Angelica new she had to get back to work now or at least talking about work and her mind back into gear too.
"Well at least Alec will be happy to hear that, and thats one less thing you will have to worry about. But there is always something huh? I think we need a vacation."
Feeling herself tense up at his comment of not seeing him again Beth's mind runs. Was he going to lecture her again? Try and be her councilor? She didn't know what was going to come next. Almost like a panic mode her mind reels. But letting him finish and hearing him tell her to keep the bench warm she gives a little nod.
"I can do that. Good Bye Justin."
Turning Beth takes her path back inside like so many other days. Knowing it so well now if blind folded she would have no problem making her way through the building.
Standing back with her brother Ryan's arms were crossed over her chest as a large smile was across her face. It took all she could not to let her laughter roll again. Eli had done a great job and the flowers on the sides looked great too. She truly couldn't wait to see the look on Roth's face.
"Hey maybe Roth will like it so much he'll keep it."
Giving a side long glance to her brother Ryan finally breaks the silence and lets her laugh go. If Roth ended up like this than Ryan didn't know what she would do. There was just no way Mr. Maco would enjoy being embarrassed like this.
Turning to her brother again she holds her fist out to him for a fist pound. She couldn't help but feel the pride inside of her that this was her brother.
"So is your girl gonna be home in time to enjoy this sweet little victory or is this one of those she wont know what kill her things?"
Giving one last squeeze to Reese Angelica lets go and backs up a few steps. Bringing her hand to Reese face one more time to run her thumb over his cheek she lets her hand fall. Moving back to her desk and sitting down she gives a nod.
"I look forward to dinner tonight. I'll make sure we talk about work before we leave as well so our night is not interrupted with work."
Giving a wink to Reese and a smile Angelica new she had to get back to work now or at least talking about work and her mind back into gear too.
"Well at least Alec will be happy to hear that, and thats one less thing you will have to worry about. But there is always something huh? I think we need a vacation."
Feeling herself tense up at his comment of not seeing him again Beth's mind runs. Was he going to lecture her again? Try and be her councilor? She didn't know what was going to come next. Almost like a panic mode her mind reels. But letting him finish and hearing him tell her to keep the bench warm she gives a little nod.
"I can do that. Good Bye Justin."
Turning Beth takes her path back inside like so many other days. Knowing it so well now if blind folded she would have no problem making her way through the building.
Standing back with her brother Ryan's arms were crossed over her chest as a large smile was across her face. It took all she could not to let her laughter roll again. Eli had done a great job and the flowers on the sides looked great too. She truly couldn't wait to see the look on Roth's face.
"Hey maybe Roth will like it so much he'll keep it."
Giving a side long glance to her brother Ryan finally breaks the silence and lets her laugh go. If Roth ended up like this than Ryan didn't know what she would do. There was just no way Mr. Maco would enjoy being embarrassed like this.
Turning to her brother again she holds her fist out to him for a fist pound. She couldn't help but feel the pride inside of her that this was her brother.
"So is your girl gonna be home in time to enjoy this sweet little victory or is this one of those she wont know what kill her things?"
If I don't see you again...
Reese smiles as Angelica admits her love as well. When she mentions her aunt and uncle though, he sighs. "Why did you have to remind me we were in the middle of working?"
He kisses her forehead and lets her go. "We'll just have to pick up where we left off at dinner tonight. As for this whole ordeal... keep me informed and in the meantime, I guess I'll give Alec what he's been wanting all along so we've got the extra space around here."
"Okay." Justin holds his smile, having known Beth would turn him down. "These girls won't scare the fish too much - they just like to splash around in the water and I make them do that far enough away not to interfere."
His chuckles and rubs Danitza's head before speaking to Beth again. "Have a good day, huh? And if I don't see you again..." He cocks his head a little, knowing that's how he'd started out yesterday. "...keep the bench warm for me."
"Well... there she is." Eli gives one last polishing swipe to the front of Roth's car, the paint shiny and dry. "Hellooooo, Kitty."
The car was finished, done up with a pink base, white and yellow flowers, and on the hood, proudly staring back at viewers was a very happy looking Hello Kitty, bow on the head and all.
Eli stands back and folds his arms, surveying his work. He nods, glancing to his sister, the only one present for the unveiling. "And tonight, once Alec gets to our place, this gets put back in her own garage." He grins. "I think this is one of my best jobs yet. Pitty I'm sure it won't last long."
He kisses her forehead and lets her go. "We'll just have to pick up where we left off at dinner tonight. As for this whole ordeal... keep me informed and in the meantime, I guess I'll give Alec what he's been wanting all along so we've got the extra space around here."
"Okay." Justin holds his smile, having known Beth would turn him down. "These girls won't scare the fish too much - they just like to splash around in the water and I make them do that far enough away not to interfere."
His chuckles and rubs Danitza's head before speaking to Beth again. "Have a good day, huh? And if I don't see you again..." He cocks his head a little, knowing that's how he'd started out yesterday. "...keep the bench warm for me."
"Well... there she is." Eli gives one last polishing swipe to the front of Roth's car, the paint shiny and dry. "Hellooooo, Kitty."
The car was finished, done up with a pink base, white and yellow flowers, and on the hood, proudly staring back at viewers was a very happy looking Hello Kitty, bow on the head and all.
Eli stands back and folds his arms, surveying his work. He nods, glancing to his sister, the only one present for the unveiling. "And tonight, once Alec gets to our place, this gets put back in her own garage." He grins. "I think this is one of my best jobs yet. Pitty I'm sure it won't last long."
Who is Who
Seeing Zora wanted a little more attachen Destiny rubs behind her ears before giving her a soft pat to the head. They were really nice dogs and now seeing a few of there differinces Beth tried to memories them quick so if they ever saw them again she could get there names right.
"I'll remember who is who for next time."
Standing up again and hearing Justin offer Beth thinks for a moment. She new she would say not today because after she was done seeing her sister she had to work, but she was wondering if she didn't if she would feel comfortable or not.
Searching Justin's eyes for a moment Beth finally looks away not know what she would of done. Giving a little shake of her head she looks up again.
"Sorry, I can't today. Once I am done here I have to head to work. Have a good time though and don't let these guys scare your fish away."
Just continuing to look up at Reese Angelica's smile holds. His words warming her heart as she can feel the color coming to her face. Wrapping one of her own arms under Reese's shoulder to hold him as well.
Feeling Reese's lips brush her Angelica's eyes fall shut and she softly return it. Than feeling Reese return in again for a more passiont kiss once again Angelica returns it her arm tighting around him. Just letting her own passion flow through her and to Reese returning her approval.
As he pulls away and his words hit her ears Angelica pulls away a little more to look up into his eyes. Seeing his meant his words Angelica's smile grew even more her eyes twinkling.
"I never thought throws words would ever feel so good to hear. I do believe I am falling...no...I know I am falling in love with you too. And once I call my Aunt and Uncle back I'll fill you in on the rest of the details."
"I'll remember who is who for next time."
Standing up again and hearing Justin offer Beth thinks for a moment. She new she would say not today because after she was done seeing her sister she had to work, but she was wondering if she didn't if she would feel comfortable or not.
Searching Justin's eyes for a moment Beth finally looks away not know what she would of done. Giving a little shake of her head she looks up again.
"Sorry, I can't today. Once I am done here I have to head to work. Have a good time though and don't let these guys scare your fish away."
Just continuing to look up at Reese Angelica's smile holds. His words warming her heart as she can feel the color coming to her face. Wrapping one of her own arms under Reese's shoulder to hold him as well.
Feeling Reese's lips brush her Angelica's eyes fall shut and she softly return it. Than feeling Reese return in again for a more passiont kiss once again Angelica returns it her arm tighting around him. Just letting her own passion flow through her and to Reese returning her approval.
As he pulls away and his words hit her ears Angelica pulls away a little more to look up into his eyes. Seeing his meant his words Angelica's smile grew even more her eyes twinkling.
"I never thought throws words would ever feel so good to hear. I do believe I am falling...no...I know I am falling in love with you too. And once I call my Aunt and Uncle back I'll fill you in on the rest of the details."
Invitation
As Angelica draws near, Reese is a little surprised. He hadn't really expected her to like his suggestion or to have been worried about her. But apparently he'd been wrong.
A grin toys at the corner of his mouth as her hand glides down his face. "You being special has nothing to do with me. Maybe I just recognize it quicker than others."
His hands slip around her waist, pulling her against him. "I'm glad I do though... otherwise someone might have whisked you away before I had a chance."
Smiling, his eyes grow softer as he looks down at her. It was a look reserved only for her... one that only ever was shown to someone he cared for deeply. Bringing his face closer, his lips brush hers lightly before returning for a more passionate kiss.
Pulling back, his eyes search hers. "I do believe I'm falling in love with you, Angelica. I'm glad you agree about Trey - otherwise I'd worry way too much."
Justin could hear a bit of timidity in Beth's voice, and sensed that a barrier had been raised again. It frustrated him, but he didn't lead on to his feelings. He'd gain back her trust... somehow.
"Kinda like a mother having twins I guess." He chuckles. "See Danitza there has more spots on her ears and Zora... she's just a little bit smaller. Once you're around them enough though, it's easy to tell whose spots belong to who. Their personalities are different too."
Justin lets Zora lick his hand before she turns back to Beth's attention. "Danitza is more adventurous. Zora has a natural ability to sense when someone is distraught - she catches on a little quicker than Danitza and doesn't get as board as quickly. When it really comes down to it though, both are good dogs and they know when it's time to work. So yeah... I think they did some good last night and this morning. They'll be back."
Quiet for a few moments, Justin watches Beth as she stands. He quirks a little grin. "Yeah, I'm still coming. I, uh... couldn't give up, ya know? Even if I did get frustrated."
He cocks his head, squinting a little in the sun as he looks up at her. "I'm taking these girls fishing this afternoon. Wanna come along?"
A grin toys at the corner of his mouth as her hand glides down his face. "You being special has nothing to do with me. Maybe I just recognize it quicker than others."
His hands slip around her waist, pulling her against him. "I'm glad I do though... otherwise someone might have whisked you away before I had a chance."
Smiling, his eyes grow softer as he looks down at her. It was a look reserved only for her... one that only ever was shown to someone he cared for deeply. Bringing his face closer, his lips brush hers lightly before returning for a more passionate kiss.
Pulling back, his eyes search hers. "I do believe I'm falling in love with you, Angelica. I'm glad you agree about Trey - otherwise I'd worry way too much."
Justin could hear a bit of timidity in Beth's voice, and sensed that a barrier had been raised again. It frustrated him, but he didn't lead on to his feelings. He'd gain back her trust... somehow.
"Kinda like a mother having twins I guess." He chuckles. "See Danitza there has more spots on her ears and Zora... she's just a little bit smaller. Once you're around them enough though, it's easy to tell whose spots belong to who. Their personalities are different too."
Justin lets Zora lick his hand before she turns back to Beth's attention. "Danitza is more adventurous. Zora has a natural ability to sense when someone is distraught - she catches on a little quicker than Danitza and doesn't get as board as quickly. When it really comes down to it though, both are good dogs and they know when it's time to work. So yeah... I think they did some good last night and this morning. They'll be back."
Quiet for a few moments, Justin watches Beth as she stands. He quirks a little grin. "Yeah, I'm still coming. I, uh... couldn't give up, ya know? Even if I did get frustrated."
He cocks his head, squinting a little in the sun as he looks up at her. "I'm taking these girls fishing this afternoon. Wanna come along?"
Special
Hearing the dogs didn't bite Beth gives a little nod as she looks at the dogs for a long moment before squatting down. Putting her hand out to let the dogs sniff it Destiny moves it slowly to pet the one dog's head and than to pet the other one.
"Pretty names. They both look a lot alike how do you tell them apart?"
Beth's voice sounded a little different today than it had days before almost like starting at square one again. But she was still putting forth some kind of effort to make any kind of conversation with Justin.
"I hope they were able to help since they stayed with you."
Petting the dogs still and talking to them a little asking how they were Beth finally stands. Returning her hands into her pockets again Beth shifts a little awkward before looking to Justin again. Studying him for a long moment she lets out a short breath. Not sure what else to say.
"I guess I better get going. I'm glad to see your still coming here for now."
Stopping her pacing and turning to Reese with her arms crossed Angelica just looks at him for a long moment. Not to long ago a suggestion like that would have upset her and maybe even offended but something had happened over the months. Slight changes had been made and now Angelica couldn't help the smile that spread across her face as she stepped closer to Reese her eyes searching his.
"I could yell at you and insist he stays with me, but...I think your to darn hot to bother. Not to mention its kind of nice feeling that someone cares. I wont argue with you he stays here. I do want to stay in the loop on everything though the best I can!"
Bringing a hand to the side of Reese face Angelica searches his eyes for a long moment a smile still on her lips. Running her thumb over her cheek she just takes in everything about him she had fallen for.
"Thank you for making me feel so special."
"Pretty names. They both look a lot alike how do you tell them apart?"
Beth's voice sounded a little different today than it had days before almost like starting at square one again. But she was still putting forth some kind of effort to make any kind of conversation with Justin.
"I hope they were able to help since they stayed with you."
Petting the dogs still and talking to them a little asking how they were Beth finally stands. Returning her hands into her pockets again Beth shifts a little awkward before looking to Justin again. Studying him for a long moment she lets out a short breath. Not sure what else to say.
"I guess I better get going. I'm glad to see your still coming here for now."
Stopping her pacing and turning to Reese with her arms crossed Angelica just looks at him for a long moment. Not to long ago a suggestion like that would have upset her and maybe even offended but something had happened over the months. Slight changes had been made and now Angelica couldn't help the smile that spread across her face as she stepped closer to Reese her eyes searching his.
"I could yell at you and insist he stays with me, but...I think your to darn hot to bother. Not to mention its kind of nice feeling that someone cares. I wont argue with you he stays here. I do want to stay in the loop on everything though the best I can!"
Bringing a hand to the side of Reese face Angelica searches his eyes for a long moment a smile still on her lips. Running her thumb over her cheek she just takes in everything about him she had fallen for.
"Thank you for making me feel so special."
Meet a friend
Chance laughs as he's splashed and has no trouble splashing right back before he springs off the wall to get further away. Ducking under the water, he disappears skillfully holding his breath while swimming down deep and coming up behind Destiny. "Boo."
Reese stands up with Angelica, his shoulders squaring a bit as he hears her suggestion. "Well, if Trey doesn't want to come but they get them here, then that's one less thing we have to worry about. However... I'd prefer it he not stay with you."
His tone implies that he's serious. "As Elite chief, I think it would be better to keep him under custody at least until we figure out where his loyalty lies. And as... as someone who cares about you, I'd prefer you not be in that position."
Justin had seen Beth coming up the walk, and he had wondered if she would stop. Whether she did or walked on would hint if there were any consequences from yesterday's little episode in the rain. He still knew no more - he had thought about it all night, wondering if he'd missed something... missed signs or looks in her eye. But his uncle was right... he couldn't paint an accurate picture without all the pieces and he couldn't get those pieces until he discovered where they were.
Not wanting to maker Beth uncomfortable, Justin doesn't make eye contact, but rather focuses on the ground until he hears her voice. A smile curls on his lips, relief hidden somewhere down deep.
Looking up, his smile meets her gaze. "Naw... they don't bite unless I tell them to." He gives Beth a wink before giving a little tug on the leashes. "C'mhere, girls... I want you to meet a friend of mine."
The dogs stand and come to Justin's legs, both sitting and sniffing at Beth with curiosity.
"The one on the right is Danitza, my morning star, and this one is Zora, the dawn. They came to spend the night here with me last night." He gives Danitza a loving scratch behind her ear before looking back up at Beth. "You can pet them if you like."
Reese stands up with Angelica, his shoulders squaring a bit as he hears her suggestion. "Well, if Trey doesn't want to come but they get them here, then that's one less thing we have to worry about. However... I'd prefer it he not stay with you."
His tone implies that he's serious. "As Elite chief, I think it would be better to keep him under custody at least until we figure out where his loyalty lies. And as... as someone who cares about you, I'd prefer you not be in that position."
Justin had seen Beth coming up the walk, and he had wondered if she would stop. Whether she did or walked on would hint if there were any consequences from yesterday's little episode in the rain. He still knew no more - he had thought about it all night, wondering if he'd missed something... missed signs or looks in her eye. But his uncle was right... he couldn't paint an accurate picture without all the pieces and he couldn't get those pieces until he discovered where they were.
Not wanting to maker Beth uncomfortable, Justin doesn't make eye contact, but rather focuses on the ground until he hears her voice. A smile curls on his lips, relief hidden somewhere down deep.
Looking up, his smile meets her gaze. "Naw... they don't bite unless I tell them to." He gives Beth a wink before giving a little tug on the leashes. "C'mhere, girls... I want you to meet a friend of mine."
The dogs stand and come to Justin's legs, both sitting and sniffing at Beth with curiosity.
"The one on the right is Danitza, my morning star, and this one is Zora, the dawn. They came to spend the night here with me last night." He gives Danitza a loving scratch behind her ear before looking back up at Beth. "You can pet them if you like."
Bite
Thinking again for a second Angelica was happy that Reese though this would work. She didn't want to try and pull anything over on anyone but maybe this was the better of two evils. For all she new maybe Trey was willing and think would be all a lot easier than she though.
"I honestly don't know if he's willing or not. Hope would make think he is willing and just got with the flow but my common sence says thats not how its gonna work. He's got everything living with his parents. They are respected in Mexico so in turn they respect him. He eats off a gold plate always having money and getting what he wants. I'd say he is going to be a little less than happy."
Letting out another sigh Angelica stands and starts to pacing her office, it always helped her to think better when she was weighing options.
"I can let him stay with me so you dont have to worry about him getting into trouble here or so we don't use up the room we need for more important things. As for how he would get here, my Aunt and Uncle would be having him come by plane and have his items and stuff shipped. Than we would just have to pick Trey up at the air port."
Coming up the side walk Beth's stride shortens a little as her eyes meet Justin on the bench. She didn't know how she felt about seeing him today after yesterday. She was happy she liked Justin he was nice but...would he try and lecture her today too?
Swolling her own feelings Beth tried to tell herself what Justin said shouldn't matter but for some reason it did and for some reason walking past him without saying hi would make her feel sad.
Catching movement down by Justin's feel Beth sees the two dogs and a little smile forms inside. Those must be his dogs he was telling her about. They were very pretty and looked like they behaved very well.
Drawing closer Beth puts her hands in her jacket pocket fiddling with her keys for a moment. Before clearing her voice a little.
"Your dogs are very pretty. Do they bite?"
Watching Chance Destiny just laughs not even trying to beat him in. Giving a little clap as he goes for the dive she makes her way over to the water. Walking down the steps and finally getting all the way in she goes under the water getting her hair wet before coming back up again and swimming over to deepened where Chance was.
"Mmmm...the water really does feel good on a day like this. Nice a relaxing that for sure."
Giving a little grin Destiny brings her hands in front of her and gives a little splash twords him a laugh following.
"I honestly don't know if he's willing or not. Hope would make think he is willing and just got with the flow but my common sence says thats not how its gonna work. He's got everything living with his parents. They are respected in Mexico so in turn they respect him. He eats off a gold plate always having money and getting what he wants. I'd say he is going to be a little less than happy."
Letting out another sigh Angelica stands and starts to pacing her office, it always helped her to think better when she was weighing options.
"I can let him stay with me so you dont have to worry about him getting into trouble here or so we don't use up the room we need for more important things. As for how he would get here, my Aunt and Uncle would be having him come by plane and have his items and stuff shipped. Than we would just have to pick Trey up at the air port."
Coming up the side walk Beth's stride shortens a little as her eyes meet Justin on the bench. She didn't know how she felt about seeing him today after yesterday. She was happy she liked Justin he was nice but...would he try and lecture her today too?
Swolling her own feelings Beth tried to tell herself what Justin said shouldn't matter but for some reason it did and for some reason walking past him without saying hi would make her feel sad.
Catching movement down by Justin's feel Beth sees the two dogs and a little smile forms inside. Those must be his dogs he was telling her about. They were very pretty and looked like they behaved very well.
Drawing closer Beth puts her hands in her jacket pocket fiddling with her keys for a moment. Before clearing her voice a little.
"Your dogs are very pretty. Do they bite?"
Watching Chance Destiny just laughs not even trying to beat him in. Giving a little clap as he goes for the dive she makes her way over to the water. Walking down the steps and finally getting all the way in she goes under the water getting her hair wet before coming back up again and swimming over to deepened where Chance was.
"Mmmm...the water really does feel good on a day like this. Nice a relaxing that for sure."
Giving a little grin Destiny brings her hands in front of her and gives a little splash twords him a laugh following.
Breakthrough
Chance chuckles and leads the way outside. "Maybe we'll get lucky and we won't have to share too much."
Getting to the pool , it was a pleasant surprise to find only a few people. Having come at just the right time, apparently, most of the few who were there were simply lounging and socializing in the patio area where there were tables and chairs.
Paying, entering and finding a good spot at a table for their things, Chance keeps an eye out, taking in all the people, who was there, what they looked like, and traffic on the nearby street. "Everything looks good," he comments to Destiny. Pulling off his shirt and shedding his jeans to be in his swimming trunks, he looks at the almost-empty pool. "Last one in is a rotten egg."
Making a dash to the diving board, he's up, on, bounces once and flips a somersault in the air before straightening for a sleek dive into the water. Surfacing, he finds Destiny and laughs. "Water's great."
Reese nods absentmindedly. "I think if we bring Trey officially to question him, we could get away with it. Perhaps under the truth, that your relatives contacted you, and it's a perfect 'in' for us to gain information on a drug ring that most assuredly brings drugs into the US at some point. Even though it's not a current case, why should we not follow up? No one should have a problem with us at least investigating this."
He thinks for a moment longer, truly wanting some way to work this out. He cared about Angelica and her sister and brother-in-law. He didn't know how someone could threaten that Bret or Charlotte could wind up in jail, but anything was possible with people as ruthless as this. "How are we going to get Trey back here though? Do you even know if he's a willing party?"
Justin stands at the window and sips a cup of coffee with ice. He'd been told he was strange, but he never had enjoyed hot drinks. It was the caffeine he wanted this morning.
A light fog had enveloped Brookshire, making it feel as though it were some fanciful wonderland.
Hearing movement, Justin turns from the window and sees Scott pulling himself up to sit on the bed. Zora hops off onto the floor, sensing her overnight duty was done. Justin wanders over and eases down next to Scott. "Morning." He cocks his head to study Scott's tired, dark eyes. "You alright?"
Scott nods numbly. He didn't remember Justin coming last night, but he remembered being calmed. "I think so."
"Want some breakfast?"
Scott shakes his head.
Justin looks in his cup. "Cold coffee?"
Scott glances at the ice and a slight laugh surfaces before he shakes his head again.
"Okay, well, why don't you get cleaned up and... I'll go get you some apple juice, alright? It'll be easy on your stomach, but you need something."
Scott nods obediently and stand a little unsteadily to head to the shower.
Justin finishes off his coffee then takes Danitza and Zora out, getting some apple juice from Jenny on his way back in.
Half an hour later, Scott is sitting on the bed again, cleaned up, clean clothes and working on keeping down the juice. Looking at Justin, who was now sitting on the floor with the dogs, Scott's eyes move to Zora and he lightly pats the bed. She obediently gets up and comes to him, wagging her tail and licking his fingers. He scratches her head and enjoys her pure affection. "I miss Domino," he mentions quietly.
Justin could understand. "I can bring her to visit if you want."
Scott shakes his head. "It would just confuse her." Sipping the last of his juice, he succeeds in finishing it, and sets the glass down on the nightstand. Thinking a moment and petting Zora some more, he finally looks back to Justin. "I want to play the matching game."
Justin tries to hide his surprise. "You sure?"
Scott hesitates then nods. "Yeah. I'm... I'm ready for the rain."
Justin's heart skips a beat. Scott had heard him. "Okay. You want to go outside?"
"Yeah. Can the dogs come?"
Justin smiles. "Sure..."
...The cards are spread face down on the table. One of Scott's hands rests on Zora's head, the other hovering over the cards. Justin sits across from him and waits patiently as the morning sun brings the warmth for the day. Scott's pulse races, but he knew he had to do this. Justin was right. He could either face this or let himself die.
Justin says nothing and simply waits. If it took Scott all day or even if he gave up before turning over a single card, Justin had seen a step forward today.
A bead of sweat rolls down the side of Scott's face, his hand still hovering. Whose face would he see? What kind of trigger would it be? What would he experience? Swallowing hard, his hand lowers, his fingertips resting on the smooth card. And finally, with great determination, the card is flipped over and Scott's hand retracts quickly as if the card were on fire.
Though the card was now face up, Scott's eyes had closed and he just sits for another several moments before mustering up the courage to face this giant. Staring down, he sees a face that he would not recognize, had it not been for the Agency data. He had a rough look, and a jagged scar down the side of his face, adding to he glare he had for whatever camera had taken his picture.
Scott sucks in his breath. As the data emerges. Name, birthdate, rank, number, history...
Justin sees Scott getting lost in a stare. He remembered all Alec had told him about diverting Scott's mind and helping him concentrate on something else to keep him from going into overload or shock. When Scott remains motionless, Justin looks to Zora and give her several short nods while snapping his finger. She gets the signal and her ears perk up as she gives a short bark.
Scott is startled from his stare as the data vanishes. He blinks and tries to breath again, his hands having started to shake. "That's... that's Patrick Deluthe."
Justin nods. "Can you find him again?"
Scott knew the odds weren't good for him to find a match before any other cards had been turned over, so it takes him a few moments to gather his nerves once more. Turning over another card, this time, it's a woman. Again, the data surfaces, taking over Scott's thoughts as he begins to murmur. "Angela Hobring. Agent three three two. First of the-"
Zora's bark makes Scott flinch, though again, he's brought quickly back to reality. It was amazing, even to himself, that without having worked at this, he had no defenses built up at all. It was an instant reaction to the visual stimulations, over which he had no control. It was even more instantaneous than it had been before - a grim sign that time was running out.
Drawing in his breath, Scott turns the unmatched cards back over. "Your turn."
As long as Scott didn't back off, Justin would let the play continue. So he goes for his first card and quickly the second. Again, Scott has no control, automatically starting to rattle off information before again, Zora provides the distraction needed. Justin hadn't known if the dog would help, but seeing that it worked, he would continue to use her.
Back and forth, the matching game continues. By the last round Scott can take, he's managed to hold off reciting the data for a couple seconds after seeing the faces. It was just a little achievement, but it was an achievement nonetheless, and it brought something even more important than that: hope. Hope that eventually, he really could overcome this.
"I... I'm tired." Scott wipes sweat from his brow, still trembling as his stomach churns.
Justin immediately calls the game to a close by gathering up the cards. Looking to Scott, he offers a smile. "You did very well, Scott."
"Did I?" Scott licks his lips, not realizing his hand was still petting Zora's head. "I... I feel like I just got run over by a truck but... but I don't remember everything I talked about."
"It's okay. Your mind needs time to adjust. This is the first time you've used it like this."
"I didn't black out... did I?"
"No, you didn't." Justin smiles again. "No blackouts, and you didn't even run away." He knew this had been a very painful process, but he was proud of Scott. "Let's go for a little walk, okay? After that, you can go rest."
Scott looks up at him, fear in his eyes. "I'm going to have nightmares tonight, aren't I?"
"You might. But they're only dreams, Scott. They can't hurt you."
"But they can stimulate triggers and I could-"
"You won't," Justin states firmly. Scott had yet to fall into shock because of a dream. "Believe in yourself, Scott. You just proved you're strong enough to overcome this."
...An hour later, after a walk and getting Scott back inside, the sun had risen to welcome mid-morning. Justin was exhausted. He'd gotten little sleep last night, and this ordeal had drained him of all his energy. Scott's case was far from normal - if this morning didn't prove that, nothing would. No other case had worn Justin out quite like this before and he just hoped that he had the endurance to see it through, now that Scott was showing signs of improvement.
Justin walks wearily down the sidewalk, Danitza and Zora at his side. It was rare he used them with clients, but when he did, he was always glad he had put them through a training program. They could be troublemakers and goofballs at home, but once again they'd proven they could get down to business with the drop of a hat.
Needing to just sit and regroup before heading home, Justin finds the familiar bench along the sidewalk, and eases down with a sigh. The dogs lie down at his feet, yawning and panting just a little in the warm morning temperature.
Getting to the pool , it was a pleasant surprise to find only a few people. Having come at just the right time, apparently, most of the few who were there were simply lounging and socializing in the patio area where there were tables and chairs.
Paying, entering and finding a good spot at a table for their things, Chance keeps an eye out, taking in all the people, who was there, what they looked like, and traffic on the nearby street. "Everything looks good," he comments to Destiny. Pulling off his shirt and shedding his jeans to be in his swimming trunks, he looks at the almost-empty pool. "Last one in is a rotten egg."
Making a dash to the diving board, he's up, on, bounces once and flips a somersault in the air before straightening for a sleek dive into the water. Surfacing, he finds Destiny and laughs. "Water's great."
Reese nods absentmindedly. "I think if we bring Trey officially to question him, we could get away with it. Perhaps under the truth, that your relatives contacted you, and it's a perfect 'in' for us to gain information on a drug ring that most assuredly brings drugs into the US at some point. Even though it's not a current case, why should we not follow up? No one should have a problem with us at least investigating this."
He thinks for a moment longer, truly wanting some way to work this out. He cared about Angelica and her sister and brother-in-law. He didn't know how someone could threaten that Bret or Charlotte could wind up in jail, but anything was possible with people as ruthless as this. "How are we going to get Trey back here though? Do you even know if he's a willing party?"
Justin stands at the window and sips a cup of coffee with ice. He'd been told he was strange, but he never had enjoyed hot drinks. It was the caffeine he wanted this morning.
A light fog had enveloped Brookshire, making it feel as though it were some fanciful wonderland.
Hearing movement, Justin turns from the window and sees Scott pulling himself up to sit on the bed. Zora hops off onto the floor, sensing her overnight duty was done. Justin wanders over and eases down next to Scott. "Morning." He cocks his head to study Scott's tired, dark eyes. "You alright?"
Scott nods numbly. He didn't remember Justin coming last night, but he remembered being calmed. "I think so."
"Want some breakfast?"
Scott shakes his head.
Justin looks in his cup. "Cold coffee?"
Scott glances at the ice and a slight laugh surfaces before he shakes his head again.
"Okay, well, why don't you get cleaned up and... I'll go get you some apple juice, alright? It'll be easy on your stomach, but you need something."
Scott nods obediently and stand a little unsteadily to head to the shower.
Justin finishes off his coffee then takes Danitza and Zora out, getting some apple juice from Jenny on his way back in.
Half an hour later, Scott is sitting on the bed again, cleaned up, clean clothes and working on keeping down the juice. Looking at Justin, who was now sitting on the floor with the dogs, Scott's eyes move to Zora and he lightly pats the bed. She obediently gets up and comes to him, wagging her tail and licking his fingers. He scratches her head and enjoys her pure affection. "I miss Domino," he mentions quietly.
Justin could understand. "I can bring her to visit if you want."
Scott shakes his head. "It would just confuse her." Sipping the last of his juice, he succeeds in finishing it, and sets the glass down on the nightstand. Thinking a moment and petting Zora some more, he finally looks back to Justin. "I want to play the matching game."
Justin tries to hide his surprise. "You sure?"
Scott hesitates then nods. "Yeah. I'm... I'm ready for the rain."
Justin's heart skips a beat. Scott had heard him. "Okay. You want to go outside?"
"Yeah. Can the dogs come?"
Justin smiles. "Sure..."
...The cards are spread face down on the table. One of Scott's hands rests on Zora's head, the other hovering over the cards. Justin sits across from him and waits patiently as the morning sun brings the warmth for the day. Scott's pulse races, but he knew he had to do this. Justin was right. He could either face this or let himself die.
Justin says nothing and simply waits. If it took Scott all day or even if he gave up before turning over a single card, Justin had seen a step forward today.
A bead of sweat rolls down the side of Scott's face, his hand still hovering. Whose face would he see? What kind of trigger would it be? What would he experience? Swallowing hard, his hand lowers, his fingertips resting on the smooth card. And finally, with great determination, the card is flipped over and Scott's hand retracts quickly as if the card were on fire.
Though the card was now face up, Scott's eyes had closed and he just sits for another several moments before mustering up the courage to face this giant. Staring down, he sees a face that he would not recognize, had it not been for the Agency data. He had a rough look, and a jagged scar down the side of his face, adding to he glare he had for whatever camera had taken his picture.
Scott sucks in his breath. As the data emerges. Name, birthdate, rank, number, history...
Justin sees Scott getting lost in a stare. He remembered all Alec had told him about diverting Scott's mind and helping him concentrate on something else to keep him from going into overload or shock. When Scott remains motionless, Justin looks to Zora and give her several short nods while snapping his finger. She gets the signal and her ears perk up as she gives a short bark.
Scott is startled from his stare as the data vanishes. He blinks and tries to breath again, his hands having started to shake. "That's... that's Patrick Deluthe."
Justin nods. "Can you find him again?"
Scott knew the odds weren't good for him to find a match before any other cards had been turned over, so it takes him a few moments to gather his nerves once more. Turning over another card, this time, it's a woman. Again, the data surfaces, taking over Scott's thoughts as he begins to murmur. "Angela Hobring. Agent three three two. First of the-"
Zora's bark makes Scott flinch, though again, he's brought quickly back to reality. It was amazing, even to himself, that without having worked at this, he had no defenses built up at all. It was an instant reaction to the visual stimulations, over which he had no control. It was even more instantaneous than it had been before - a grim sign that time was running out.
Drawing in his breath, Scott turns the unmatched cards back over. "Your turn."
As long as Scott didn't back off, Justin would let the play continue. So he goes for his first card and quickly the second. Again, Scott has no control, automatically starting to rattle off information before again, Zora provides the distraction needed. Justin hadn't known if the dog would help, but seeing that it worked, he would continue to use her.
Back and forth, the matching game continues. By the last round Scott can take, he's managed to hold off reciting the data for a couple seconds after seeing the faces. It was just a little achievement, but it was an achievement nonetheless, and it brought something even more important than that: hope. Hope that eventually, he really could overcome this.
"I... I'm tired." Scott wipes sweat from his brow, still trembling as his stomach churns.
Justin immediately calls the game to a close by gathering up the cards. Looking to Scott, he offers a smile. "You did very well, Scott."
"Did I?" Scott licks his lips, not realizing his hand was still petting Zora's head. "I... I feel like I just got run over by a truck but... but I don't remember everything I talked about."
"It's okay. Your mind needs time to adjust. This is the first time you've used it like this."
"I didn't black out... did I?"
"No, you didn't." Justin smiles again. "No blackouts, and you didn't even run away." He knew this had been a very painful process, but he was proud of Scott. "Let's go for a little walk, okay? After that, you can go rest."
Scott looks up at him, fear in his eyes. "I'm going to have nightmares tonight, aren't I?"
"You might. But they're only dreams, Scott. They can't hurt you."
"But they can stimulate triggers and I could-"
"You won't," Justin states firmly. Scott had yet to fall into shock because of a dream. "Believe in yourself, Scott. You just proved you're strong enough to overcome this."
...An hour later, after a walk and getting Scott back inside, the sun had risen to welcome mid-morning. Justin was exhausted. He'd gotten little sleep last night, and this ordeal had drained him of all his energy. Scott's case was far from normal - if this morning didn't prove that, nothing would. No other case had worn Justin out quite like this before and he just hoped that he had the endurance to see it through, now that Scott was showing signs of improvement.
Justin walks wearily down the sidewalk, Danitza and Zora at his side. It was rare he used them with clients, but when he did, he was always glad he had put them through a training program. They could be troublemakers and goofballs at home, but once again they'd proven they could get down to business with the drop of a hat.
Needing to just sit and regroup before heading home, Justin finds the familiar bench along the sidewalk, and eases down with a sigh. The dogs lie down at his feet, yawning and panting just a little in the warm morning temperature.
Maybe the only way
Destiny gives a laugh before grabbing her towel and some tanning lotion. She was happy she packed stuff just in case. Never hurt to have just in case stuff.
Giving a smile to Chance and linking arms with him Destiny leans over to give him a slight kiss on the cheek. This was going to be a good afternoon she could tell already.
"Ok, lets hit the road, catch some sun, and I'll try not to yell at people for hogging the pool. I'm not sure to having to share one."
Giving a grin one could tell she was only joking about yelling at anyone in the pool. It was still a nice thought though, and it would be different sharing one but she could hope it wasn't to busy.
Angelica thinks for a long moment. She understood completely what Reese was saying and didn't blame him at all. She was a lawyer she new how it worked and how much trouble they could get into for keeping Trey with them knowing the background.
"I've never met my cousin, he's twenty four and dealing with who knows what because of his parents. I guess the only thing I could say he might be able to offer is other names of drug rings and its possible he might even know a little about the Agency but for that I don't know. As for wanting out maybe if he was here long enough he would see it was wrong and change."
Leaning back in her chair Angelica brings a hand to her chin deep in thought. She'd never want anything bad to happen to the Elite. This was her home and he place to work, this was were she belonged. But seeing the willingness in Reese eye to try and helped warmed Angelica's heart even more. It was nice to see he wanted to help as long as they could find a way.
"Maybe we can bring him in and give him some time to help us and if he dosent end up helping us at all..."
Angelica lets out a long sigh it turned her stomach thinking about it but it could be the only way.
"...than we could turn in him. Technically that its still offering him protection, they never said to keep him out of jail."
Giving a smile to Chance and linking arms with him Destiny leans over to give him a slight kiss on the cheek. This was going to be a good afternoon she could tell already.
"Ok, lets hit the road, catch some sun, and I'll try not to yell at people for hogging the pool. I'm not sure to having to share one."
Giving a grin one could tell she was only joking about yelling at anyone in the pool. It was still a nice thought though, and it would be different sharing one but she could hope it wasn't to busy.
Angelica thinks for a long moment. She understood completely what Reese was saying and didn't blame him at all. She was a lawyer she new how it worked and how much trouble they could get into for keeping Trey with them knowing the background.
"I've never met my cousin, he's twenty four and dealing with who knows what because of his parents. I guess the only thing I could say he might be able to offer is other names of drug rings and its possible he might even know a little about the Agency but for that I don't know. As for wanting out maybe if he was here long enough he would see it was wrong and change."
Leaning back in her chair Angelica brings a hand to her chin deep in thought. She'd never want anything bad to happen to the Elite. This was her home and he place to work, this was were she belonged. But seeing the willingness in Reese eye to try and helped warmed Angelica's heart even more. It was nice to see he wanted to help as long as they could find a way.
"Maybe we can bring him in and give him some time to help us and if he dosent end up helping us at all..."
Angelica lets out a long sigh it turned her stomach thinking about it but it could be the only way.
"...than we could turn in him. Technically that its still offering him protection, they never said to keep him out of jail."
It's all going to be okay
Seeing that Angelica had something more serious to talk about, Reese enters her office all the way and sits down to listen. As the story unfolds, he stiffens just a little, not liking the situation at all for more reasons than one.
Looking back at her, he leans back in the chair and thinks for a long moment. "Well... my gut says to have nothing to do with this. But my first reaction is to help because I don't want anything to happen to you or Charlotte."
Reese sighs deeply and shakes his head. "I don't know what to say, Angelica. You know as well as I that it would be nearly impossible for the Elite to offer protection to someone like that - we're under obligation to arrest, not keep them from harm, especially when you know Trey's involved in a drug ring. But..." He taps a finger on his leg, still thinking. "It's for the benefit of the innocent - you and Charlotte - to offer safety."
He searches Angelica's face, seeing the worry in her eyes. "Is there any way Trey could benefit the Elite? Does he want out? Would he help us in any way? Even if we have some small reason to keep him here for a while, that would be enough. Otherwise, we'd just be harboring a criminal and it would be better to offer protection to Charlotte and Bret than house Trey."
Chance is pleased when Destiny agrees to go swimming. Going with her inside, he makes quick work of slipping on a pair of trunks under his clothes. Seeing Destiny emerge, a smile creases his lips. "I don't know... you almost look too cute to take out."
Still grinning, he makes sure he has everything he needs before giving instructions. "Okay... the pool should be a safe place, one, because there are witnesses around, and two, there's a lifeguard that sees everything that's going on. Someone would have to be awfully stupid to try and pull a stunt there. So... I'm confident you'll be fine."
He holds out his arm. "Shall we?"
"Well what did you want from her?"
"I don't know. I guess... I don't know. I thought she'd started to trust me enough to open up. I guess I was wrong."
"Have you ever asked her about her situation?"
"No. She's been unapproachable. One look in her eye and I see this steel wall ten inches thick. Asking her point blank about her past would be suicide."
"And this wasn't?"
Justin smirks a little and looks across the porch at his uncle. "Dr. Hawks, you realize how weird it is to be having this conversation, right? If we sit here long enough, our brains might implode from trying to figure out what's not being said."
Ben laughs and takes another sip of his tea. It was rare he came by Justin's, but today he'd had the afternoon off and needed to run some errands in this area so he had stopped. Their conversation had reverted to Beth, to Ben's surprise, but it was obviously something that weighed heavily on his nephew's mind. "They might. But if they did, we might become normal."
Justin grins and shakes his head, leaning back against the railing, the rain having stopped since this morning. "So what did I do wrong?"
"What do you mean?"
"I mean... about what I said to her. What part of it was wrong?"
"I don't think anything about it was wrong."
"Well then why did she walk away as though I'd just cut her heart?"
Ben runs a finger along the rim of his glass and pushes the swing slightly. "Maybe it was just the timing that was off."
"Timing? But... when else could I have said it?"
"When she was ready."
"But..." Justin groans in frustration.
Ben cocks his head. "Why does this vex you?"
"I don't know. I guess because last week she gave me the impression she didn't have time for anything but the 'hi and goodbye' relationship we've formed. I wanted to be more... be a friend. 'I don't have time for anything else,' she said, quite confident that she liked her life the way it is. She's lonely and won't admit it. But she won't do anything to change it. She wants someone to wait around for her, but she's not even willing to take the first steps. She wants the burden to lie on the other person so she can take her sweet time and it's the other person's fault if they try to push too soon. So they're forced to wait and hope that one day something happens. Beth is... she's stubborn and.. and..."
"You like her, don't you?"
Justin looks up quickly. "She's alright."
Ben tries not to smile too broadly. "You really think she's all that irritating and stubborn?"
"I've added up everything I know. We've talked together, sat together, laughed - she even took me to the hospital where we chatted and she brought me back. I would think by now I'd get more than hesitation when offering a handshake. I'm not that undeserving of trust am I?"
"Not to me. But maybe to her."
"But why? I don't get it. I mean... I see something in her eyes that... that breaks my heart, honestly. She's been through something. She's got a sister in Brookshire - that alone could do it. But... she likes being alone. She likes going through life alone and yet... her eyes don't say so." Justin sighs. "She can stare me in the eye and tell me those lies."
"Do you think she knows she's lying?"
Justin furrows his brow. "I thought about that - about her not realizing what she really wants, that is. But she's got a good head on her shoulders. All I can figure is that she's somebody with a past that's not so great and she's wallowed for years, throwing herself into taking care of her sister, believing it will somehow cure the emptiness she holds. Then when she's challenged, she backs up and defends herself so she won't be wrong."
Ben sits back and watches as the wheels turn in his nephew's mind. "Well... sounds like you've met one of the most typical people there are in this world. You've put the pieces together quite logically, in a believable pattern. So. What's out of place?"
"I don't know." Justin frowns.
"Hurt your feelings a bit, did she?"
Justin shrugs. "I guess... when she said she didn't have time for anybody, it made me realize that meant me too."
"But all you were doing was seeing her when you came for Scott. She had time for that."
"Yeah but..."
"You wanted more?"
"Maybe sometime. Coffee would have been nice. Lunch. Something. But she's unapproachable."
Ben takes another sip of his tea. "So why was her reaction today surprising?"
"I don't know. I guess maybe I figured she would see I cared. But instead, I think there's part of her that despises me for being judgmental or something."
"I don't think it had anything to do with you."
"What do you mean?"
"Don't take so much credit. You haven't shaped her past. You're not the one that has built distrust. Her reaction to you is just aftermath of whatever it is she's going through, you know this. But if it wasn't the response you expected then... did you miss something?"
"That's what I can't figure out." Justin squints a little at his uncle. "What about her sister? All I know is that she's at Brookshire and has been for quite a while."
"You know I can't tell you anything about that. But... do you think there's a connection?"
"What do you mean?"
"You've put a pretty shallow limitation on Beth's pain, haven't you?"
"She hasn't given me any reason to think otherwise."
"How many people have you met that are the same, Justin? How many people react the same way in a situation? How many people are predictable?"
Justin purses his lips. "So you're saying there is a connection... that there's more to Beth than some little tragedy that makes her so frightened and alone."
"Some little tragedy?"
"Oh, you know... the typical. Parents divorced... bad boyfriend... whatever. Things that people need to get over and move on from after a while. They need to heal... need to live again."
Ben lets a pause occur before going on. "If it was more than that, do you really think Beth would have told you?"
"Wouldn't I have seen the signs?"
"If she's locked up that tightly?"
Justin's shoulders slouch a little more. "So I was wrong."
"I'm not saying that. I'm not saying that at all. I think the words you said to her were true and maybe they needed to be said. But I think perhaps it was just too soon. If her pain is indeed deeper than you know, would you have done the same thing?"
"No... I would have waited. Been more patient. I wouldn't have let her wanting to be alone bother me so much I suppose. Wouldn't have taken it personally like I did." Justin searches Ben's eyes. "It is connected to her sister, isn't it? Is that the key?"
Ben leans forward, resting his elbows on his knees. "What do you want, Justin? Do you want to be her friend, or are you trying to be her counselor?"
Justin thinks for a moment. "I get tired of being a counselor sometimes. All I want to be is a friend who can perhaps ease her pain. She deserves to have more joy in her life than she does. Can't a friend help with that? Or do I have to be a counselor?"
"You tell me."
"I think it's the place of a friend that can truly help someone. Some people need the counselor... but... not Beth. She just needs understanding. But without all the pieces, I simply can't understand."
Ben drinks the last of his tea and gets to his feet, wandering a little closer to look down at Justin. "I think you'll find her last name in connection with some old news articles very helpful. The internet is full of archives. At least... that's where I would go if I were in your shoes." He offers a smile to his nephew. "Quit blaming yourself for doing things wrong. You're one of the best I know, even if you don't do everything you've been told. But even the best don't always have all the pieces. So don't blame yourself. Just find the right pieces and put them together to make another picture."
"What if I get that one wrong too?"
"Then find more pieces and make another picture. Unless you're going to give up."
The conversation is brought to a sudden halt as Justin's phone rings inside the house. He really didn't want to answer it, but something told him he should. Standing up, he heads in through the screen door, jogging into the living room to grab the phone before the answering machine picks up. "Yeah? What? Yeah, okay. It's gonna take me a while, but I'm on my way."
Hanging up again, he grabs his shoes on his way back outside. "That was Jenny," he informs Ben. "Scott broke down and she thinks I should come."
Jenny goes back to Scott's side as he sits on the floor by the window of his room. She hadn't been able to get him to move ever since she'd found him here, curled up and sobbing. From what she could tell, he was still okay, but apparently very much emotionally overwhelmed.
Putting her arm around him again, she rocks him a little, her hand running up from his forehead and through his hair. "Shhh... it's okay," she soothes. "It's all going to be okay."
It takes Justin less than the normal hour and a half to arrive back at Brookshire after pushing the speed limit the whole way. Emerging from his pickup, this time he isn't alone. Danitza and Zora accompany him on their leashes, both obediently at his side as they walk at his heel with purpose.
Once inside, no one balks at Justin having the dogs there, even if he did get a few strange looks. Up the three flights of stairs and down the hall, Justin pays no heed to anything else going on. His mind was focused only on one thing.
Entering the room and seeing Scott, he's only glad that so far Scott was still conscious and crying - at least he had not lapsed into an unresponsive state. "Okay, Jenny... you can go now."
"But-"
"It's okay."
Jenny reluctantly stands and backs away from Scott, not wanting to leave, but doing as she's told. "Call me if you need anything."
"Yeah, thanks." Justin waits until the door is shut again before making any move. "Sit." Both dogs sit obediently and Justin goes alone to Scott, kneeling in front of him. "Hey, buddy... what's wrong, hmm? Can we talk?"
Tears stream from Scott's eyes and he shakes his head, drawing in ragged breaths.
Justin just wanted to calm him down at this point, talk or none. Giving a quite whistle, he's joined by the dogs. "Easy," he commands softly. "Keep him company."
Danitza takes Scott's left side and Zora his right, lying down beside him. Danitza puts her head in Scott's lap and both dogs just lie still, neither begging for attention or getting excited, but just being quiet.
Scott sits a little straighter, startled at first. He knew these must be Justin's dogs that he'd talked about, and they were not aggressive at all, so they formed no fear. One of his hands falls to Danitza's head, his palm resting against her soft coat. His breathing starts to relax. His other hand finds its way to Zora's warm back and his fingers stroke her a little. His tears begin to slow.
For the next few hours, that's all there is. Quiet crying, petting and silence. Justin squats in the far corner just watching and giving Scott space, saying nothing at all unless spoken to. By nightfall, Scott is exhausted and Justin manages to get him onto his bed. Curling up next to Zora's warm body, he falls asleep almost immediately, exhausted from the emotional overflow. Justin remains, stretching out on the floor with Danitza as a willing pillow. He would stay until either Scott talked or it was sure that he was okay. Justin wasn't positive what had just happened. It appeared to simply be a bad day for Scott and his emotions from this whole thing had gotten the best of him. Or maybe Justin's desperate prayer had been answered. Only the morning would tell.
Looking back at her, he leans back in the chair and thinks for a long moment. "Well... my gut says to have nothing to do with this. But my first reaction is to help because I don't want anything to happen to you or Charlotte."
Reese sighs deeply and shakes his head. "I don't know what to say, Angelica. You know as well as I that it would be nearly impossible for the Elite to offer protection to someone like that - we're under obligation to arrest, not keep them from harm, especially when you know Trey's involved in a drug ring. But..." He taps a finger on his leg, still thinking. "It's for the benefit of the innocent - you and Charlotte - to offer safety."
He searches Angelica's face, seeing the worry in her eyes. "Is there any way Trey could benefit the Elite? Does he want out? Would he help us in any way? Even if we have some small reason to keep him here for a while, that would be enough. Otherwise, we'd just be harboring a criminal and it would be better to offer protection to Charlotte and Bret than house Trey."
Chance is pleased when Destiny agrees to go swimming. Going with her inside, he makes quick work of slipping on a pair of trunks under his clothes. Seeing Destiny emerge, a smile creases his lips. "I don't know... you almost look too cute to take out."
Still grinning, he makes sure he has everything he needs before giving instructions. "Okay... the pool should be a safe place, one, because there are witnesses around, and two, there's a lifeguard that sees everything that's going on. Someone would have to be awfully stupid to try and pull a stunt there. So... I'm confident you'll be fine."
He holds out his arm. "Shall we?"
"Well what did you want from her?"
"I don't know. I guess... I don't know. I thought she'd started to trust me enough to open up. I guess I was wrong."
"Have you ever asked her about her situation?"
"No. She's been unapproachable. One look in her eye and I see this steel wall ten inches thick. Asking her point blank about her past would be suicide."
"And this wasn't?"
Justin smirks a little and looks across the porch at his uncle. "Dr. Hawks, you realize how weird it is to be having this conversation, right? If we sit here long enough, our brains might implode from trying to figure out what's not being said."
Ben laughs and takes another sip of his tea. It was rare he came by Justin's, but today he'd had the afternoon off and needed to run some errands in this area so he had stopped. Their conversation had reverted to Beth, to Ben's surprise, but it was obviously something that weighed heavily on his nephew's mind. "They might. But if they did, we might become normal."
Justin grins and shakes his head, leaning back against the railing, the rain having stopped since this morning. "So what did I do wrong?"
"What do you mean?"
"I mean... about what I said to her. What part of it was wrong?"
"I don't think anything about it was wrong."
"Well then why did she walk away as though I'd just cut her heart?"
Ben runs a finger along the rim of his glass and pushes the swing slightly. "Maybe it was just the timing that was off."
"Timing? But... when else could I have said it?"
"When she was ready."
"But..." Justin groans in frustration.
Ben cocks his head. "Why does this vex you?"
"I don't know. I guess because last week she gave me the impression she didn't have time for anything but the 'hi and goodbye' relationship we've formed. I wanted to be more... be a friend. 'I don't have time for anything else,' she said, quite confident that she liked her life the way it is. She's lonely and won't admit it. But she won't do anything to change it. She wants someone to wait around for her, but she's not even willing to take the first steps. She wants the burden to lie on the other person so she can take her sweet time and it's the other person's fault if they try to push too soon. So they're forced to wait and hope that one day something happens. Beth is... she's stubborn and.. and..."
"You like her, don't you?"
Justin looks up quickly. "She's alright."
Ben tries not to smile too broadly. "You really think she's all that irritating and stubborn?"
"I've added up everything I know. We've talked together, sat together, laughed - she even took me to the hospital where we chatted and she brought me back. I would think by now I'd get more than hesitation when offering a handshake. I'm not that undeserving of trust am I?"
"Not to me. But maybe to her."
"But why? I don't get it. I mean... I see something in her eyes that... that breaks my heart, honestly. She's been through something. She's got a sister in Brookshire - that alone could do it. But... she likes being alone. She likes going through life alone and yet... her eyes don't say so." Justin sighs. "She can stare me in the eye and tell me those lies."
"Do you think she knows she's lying?"
Justin furrows his brow. "I thought about that - about her not realizing what she really wants, that is. But she's got a good head on her shoulders. All I can figure is that she's somebody with a past that's not so great and she's wallowed for years, throwing herself into taking care of her sister, believing it will somehow cure the emptiness she holds. Then when she's challenged, she backs up and defends herself so she won't be wrong."
Ben sits back and watches as the wheels turn in his nephew's mind. "Well... sounds like you've met one of the most typical people there are in this world. You've put the pieces together quite logically, in a believable pattern. So. What's out of place?"
"I don't know." Justin frowns.
"Hurt your feelings a bit, did she?"
Justin shrugs. "I guess... when she said she didn't have time for anybody, it made me realize that meant me too."
"But all you were doing was seeing her when you came for Scott. She had time for that."
"Yeah but..."
"You wanted more?"
"Maybe sometime. Coffee would have been nice. Lunch. Something. But she's unapproachable."
Ben takes another sip of his tea. "So why was her reaction today surprising?"
"I don't know. I guess maybe I figured she would see I cared. But instead, I think there's part of her that despises me for being judgmental or something."
"I don't think it had anything to do with you."
"What do you mean?"
"Don't take so much credit. You haven't shaped her past. You're not the one that has built distrust. Her reaction to you is just aftermath of whatever it is she's going through, you know this. But if it wasn't the response you expected then... did you miss something?"
"That's what I can't figure out." Justin squints a little at his uncle. "What about her sister? All I know is that she's at Brookshire and has been for quite a while."
"You know I can't tell you anything about that. But... do you think there's a connection?"
"What do you mean?"
"You've put a pretty shallow limitation on Beth's pain, haven't you?"
"She hasn't given me any reason to think otherwise."
"How many people have you met that are the same, Justin? How many people react the same way in a situation? How many people are predictable?"
Justin purses his lips. "So you're saying there is a connection... that there's more to Beth than some little tragedy that makes her so frightened and alone."
"Some little tragedy?"
"Oh, you know... the typical. Parents divorced... bad boyfriend... whatever. Things that people need to get over and move on from after a while. They need to heal... need to live again."
Ben lets a pause occur before going on. "If it was more than that, do you really think Beth would have told you?"
"Wouldn't I have seen the signs?"
"If she's locked up that tightly?"
Justin's shoulders slouch a little more. "So I was wrong."
"I'm not saying that. I'm not saying that at all. I think the words you said to her were true and maybe they needed to be said. But I think perhaps it was just too soon. If her pain is indeed deeper than you know, would you have done the same thing?"
"No... I would have waited. Been more patient. I wouldn't have let her wanting to be alone bother me so much I suppose. Wouldn't have taken it personally like I did." Justin searches Ben's eyes. "It is connected to her sister, isn't it? Is that the key?"
Ben leans forward, resting his elbows on his knees. "What do you want, Justin? Do you want to be her friend, or are you trying to be her counselor?"
Justin thinks for a moment. "I get tired of being a counselor sometimes. All I want to be is a friend who can perhaps ease her pain. She deserves to have more joy in her life than she does. Can't a friend help with that? Or do I have to be a counselor?"
"You tell me."
"I think it's the place of a friend that can truly help someone. Some people need the counselor... but... not Beth. She just needs understanding. But without all the pieces, I simply can't understand."
Ben drinks the last of his tea and gets to his feet, wandering a little closer to look down at Justin. "I think you'll find her last name in connection with some old news articles very helpful. The internet is full of archives. At least... that's where I would go if I were in your shoes." He offers a smile to his nephew. "Quit blaming yourself for doing things wrong. You're one of the best I know, even if you don't do everything you've been told. But even the best don't always have all the pieces. So don't blame yourself. Just find the right pieces and put them together to make another picture."
"What if I get that one wrong too?"
"Then find more pieces and make another picture. Unless you're going to give up."
The conversation is brought to a sudden halt as Justin's phone rings inside the house. He really didn't want to answer it, but something told him he should. Standing up, he heads in through the screen door, jogging into the living room to grab the phone before the answering machine picks up. "Yeah? What? Yeah, okay. It's gonna take me a while, but I'm on my way."
Hanging up again, he grabs his shoes on his way back outside. "That was Jenny," he informs Ben. "Scott broke down and she thinks I should come."
Jenny goes back to Scott's side as he sits on the floor by the window of his room. She hadn't been able to get him to move ever since she'd found him here, curled up and sobbing. From what she could tell, he was still okay, but apparently very much emotionally overwhelmed.
Putting her arm around him again, she rocks him a little, her hand running up from his forehead and through his hair. "Shhh... it's okay," she soothes. "It's all going to be okay."
It takes Justin less than the normal hour and a half to arrive back at Brookshire after pushing the speed limit the whole way. Emerging from his pickup, this time he isn't alone. Danitza and Zora accompany him on their leashes, both obediently at his side as they walk at his heel with purpose.
Once inside, no one balks at Justin having the dogs there, even if he did get a few strange looks. Up the three flights of stairs and down the hall, Justin pays no heed to anything else going on. His mind was focused only on one thing.
Entering the room and seeing Scott, he's only glad that so far Scott was still conscious and crying - at least he had not lapsed into an unresponsive state. "Okay, Jenny... you can go now."
"But-"
"It's okay."
Jenny reluctantly stands and backs away from Scott, not wanting to leave, but doing as she's told. "Call me if you need anything."
"Yeah, thanks." Justin waits until the door is shut again before making any move. "Sit." Both dogs sit obediently and Justin goes alone to Scott, kneeling in front of him. "Hey, buddy... what's wrong, hmm? Can we talk?"
Tears stream from Scott's eyes and he shakes his head, drawing in ragged breaths.
Justin just wanted to calm him down at this point, talk or none. Giving a quite whistle, he's joined by the dogs. "Easy," he commands softly. "Keep him company."
Danitza takes Scott's left side and Zora his right, lying down beside him. Danitza puts her head in Scott's lap and both dogs just lie still, neither begging for attention or getting excited, but just being quiet.
Scott sits a little straighter, startled at first. He knew these must be Justin's dogs that he'd talked about, and they were not aggressive at all, so they formed no fear. One of his hands falls to Danitza's head, his palm resting against her soft coat. His breathing starts to relax. His other hand finds its way to Zora's warm back and his fingers stroke her a little. His tears begin to slow.
For the next few hours, that's all there is. Quiet crying, petting and silence. Justin squats in the far corner just watching and giving Scott space, saying nothing at all unless spoken to. By nightfall, Scott is exhausted and Justin manages to get him onto his bed. Curling up next to Zora's warm body, he falls asleep almost immediately, exhausted from the emotional overflow. Justin remains, stretching out on the floor with Danitza as a willing pillow. He would stay until either Scott talked or it was sure that he was okay. Justin wasn't positive what had just happened. It appeared to simply be a bad day for Scott and his emotions from this whole thing had gotten the best of him. Or maybe Justin's desperate prayer had been answered. Only the morning would tell.
6/12/10
Talk
Being totally trapped in though Angelica hadn't hurt the knock on the door so hearing Reese's voice it makes her jump a little. Looking up quickly and seeing it was Reese Angelica smiles giving a nod. She and Reese had been spending a lot more time together and she really had been enjoying it.
"Like I'd really want to give up having dinner with the best looking man in the office!"
Though she didn't want to break this moment that was so sweet Angelica new she had to talk to Reese. Giving a wave to come in Angelica waited till he was sitting down.
"I hate to break a good moment but I have something I need to talk to you about."
Thinking for a moment and looking down at the desk Angelica thinks gathering her thoughts. Finally looking up at Reese again Angelica gives a smile.
"I just got a phone call from my Aunt and Uncle who live in Mexico. My cousin was adopted quite a while ago by tham and though I never met them before I had made a promise to them for helping me with my schooling that if they never needed anything I would help."
Drawing in a sigh Angelica stops for a moment drawing in a breath before continuing again.
"Anyways in Mexico they run in a drug ring are are the big shots of there territory. Needless to say my cousin Trey has become to follow in there footsteps. There rivals have deiced the best way to get to my Aunt and Uncle would be through Trey and they have already call to try and kill him. So now they have called in there favor to me and want me to get TJY to offer him protection and have him come stay with me. At first I told them I couldnt because of there dealings but they have more powers than one could think and there ways of making things convincing. My Uncle promised if I didn't take Trey he'd but my sister or Bret behind bars, and I can't have them happen. They've both found there happiness and with Charlotte being pregnant I just...I don't know what to do now. So I wanted to talk to you about it."
Angelica continues to look across the desk at Reese waiting for what he thought. It was important to her to know his thoughts on this all. He was not only her boss but part of her life now so filling him in met a lot to her.
Looking over at Chance Destiny was a little surprised. Swimming was aloud? It was really hot out today and swimming did sound nice, she wasn't about to bock at it.
"I think swimming sounds like a blast."
Tomorrow was going to be a hard day and she new it. Tonight she would have have to write her little peace to say tomorrow so till than maybe a little bit of fun would be nice.
Getting out of the car she waits for Justin coming over to his side before making her way inside. She had her swim suit here already so that was good and it wouldn't take her long to change. Getting inside Destiny goes to her bedroom to get changed quick.
Not taking long and slipping on a skirt over her bathing suit bottom Destiny makes her way out of the bedroom once more. She suit top a cute little blue and green tank top. Her stomach was exposed a little bit, tying around her neck nicely. Making it into the other room Destiny just finished tieing her hair up in a nice pony tail.
"Ok, I'm ready when you are."
"Like I'd really want to give up having dinner with the best looking man in the office!"
Though she didn't want to break this moment that was so sweet Angelica new she had to talk to Reese. Giving a wave to come in Angelica waited till he was sitting down.
"I hate to break a good moment but I have something I need to talk to you about."
Thinking for a moment and looking down at the desk Angelica thinks gathering her thoughts. Finally looking up at Reese again Angelica gives a smile.
"I just got a phone call from my Aunt and Uncle who live in Mexico. My cousin was adopted quite a while ago by tham and though I never met them before I had made a promise to them for helping me with my schooling that if they never needed anything I would help."
Drawing in a sigh Angelica stops for a moment drawing in a breath before continuing again.
"Anyways in Mexico they run in a drug ring are are the big shots of there territory. Needless to say my cousin Trey has become to follow in there footsteps. There rivals have deiced the best way to get to my Aunt and Uncle would be through Trey and they have already call to try and kill him. So now they have called in there favor to me and want me to get TJY to offer him protection and have him come stay with me. At first I told them I couldnt because of there dealings but they have more powers than one could think and there ways of making things convincing. My Uncle promised if I didn't take Trey he'd but my sister or Bret behind bars, and I can't have them happen. They've both found there happiness and with Charlotte being pregnant I just...I don't know what to do now. So I wanted to talk to you about it."
Angelica continues to look across the desk at Reese waiting for what he thought. It was important to her to know his thoughts on this all. He was not only her boss but part of her life now so filling him in met a lot to her.
Looking over at Chance Destiny was a little surprised. Swimming was aloud? It was really hot out today and swimming did sound nice, she wasn't about to bock at it.
"I think swimming sounds like a blast."
Tomorrow was going to be a hard day and she new it. Tonight she would have have to write her little peace to say tomorrow so till than maybe a little bit of fun would be nice.
Getting out of the car she waits for Justin coming over to his side before making her way inside. She had her swim suit here already so that was good and it wouldn't take her long to change. Getting inside Destiny goes to her bedroom to get changed quick.
Not taking long and slipping on a skirt over her bathing suit bottom Destiny makes her way out of the bedroom once more. She suit top a cute little blue and green tank top. Her stomach was exposed a little bit, tying around her neck nicely. Making it into the other room Destiny just finished tieing her hair up in a nice pony tail.
"Ok, I'm ready when you are."
More special
Gunner keeps a straight face the whole time Bree places her order, not helping the waitress a bit. Once she was gone though, he looks back at Bree, a smile curling his lips. It was a smile that came more frequently now than it used to. Some would have said he rarely smiled just a year ago. But now... it just seemed to be something he enjoyed a little bit more.
He takes Bree's hand and gives it a squeeze. "This vampire is enjoying his day very much, thanks to you." He grins. "It's nice to get away from work for a while and since I moved back into my apartment well... it's more special seeing you during the day now."
Reese wanders back into TJY, having been down at the local station. Ambling back towards his office, he stops at a few cubicles along the way before heading down the hall. Reaching Angelica's office, he knocks lightly, then cracks the door just enough for his face to be seen. "Hello, Lovely. Just checking to see if we're still on for dinner?"
It was after lunch and Chance was just pulling the SUV back into the driveway of the safehouse. Parking, he turns off the engine and looks over to Destiny. "I hate for the day to be over," he admits. It was a hot day out. Would she be up for some fun, even though tomorrow would be so hard? Maybe it would be good to keep her mind off of it for a while.
"I saw a swimming pool at the park..." He lets his statement become a question as he lifts his eyebrows.
He takes Bree's hand and gives it a squeeze. "This vampire is enjoying his day very much, thanks to you." He grins. "It's nice to get away from work for a while and since I moved back into my apartment well... it's more special seeing you during the day now."
Reese wanders back into TJY, having been down at the local station. Ambling back towards his office, he stops at a few cubicles along the way before heading down the hall. Reaching Angelica's office, he knocks lightly, then cracks the door just enough for his face to be seen. "Hello, Lovely. Just checking to see if we're still on for dinner?"
It was after lunch and Chance was just pulling the SUV back into the driveway of the safehouse. Parking, he turns off the engine and looks over to Destiny. "I hate for the day to be over," he admits. It was a hot day out. Would she be up for some fun, even though tomorrow would be so hard? Maybe it would be good to keep her mind off of it for a while.
"I saw a swimming pool at the park..." He lets his statement become a question as he lifts his eyebrows.
Help
Walking the halls Hope hadn't meant to be where she was now but for some reason she was here. Standing outside Scott door she just stands there. Was he inside she didn't know, but she was here and every inch of her wanted to knock. But Scott's words echo in her ears and the last thing she wanted to do was make him even more upset with her.
So starting forward again Hope continues her walk. Today was an ok day for her. She hurt a little but being up and moving around was good for her. So today she came to see Dr. Thomas and now was just walking inside since it was raining outside. Tomorrow would be another busy day of tests and treatments that would keep her drained of energy so she would get in today what she could.
"Yes, I'd like a root beerless float please."
Bree looks up at the waitress her face showing no expression. So far the day spend with Gunner had been a good one. This morning they had went to the mall and just walked around enjoying each other and makes others look at them funny. Now it was pretty much the same there here, and picking on the waitress.
Blinking at Gunner and Bree the waitress feels lost for words. She was new and had no idea what these two wanted.
"I don't think we have that."
Looking to Gunner and than back to the waitress Bree cocks her head for a moment studying her for a second.
"We have gotten it here many times, I know you have it so don't argue and just get it made."
Bree new sometimes there joke were mean but it was always funny seeing the reactions of other. She thought so anyways, and after all they were only joking around and being normal well that just wasn't as much fun.
Jotting someone down on her note pad and than looking at the two one more time before turning and leaving the waitress gives a mumble.
"Nothing like crazy people on my second day."
Once the waitress was gone Bree turns to Gunner and the corner of her lips start to twitch as she wanted to smile. Reaching across the table and resting her hand on top of his Bree could feel the happiness inside. It had been a while since Gunner was releaces from jail and she was so happy still. Every day spent with him was something new and would never tire.
Summer was coming to and it would hold many things, like camping with her Uncle, Amanda, and Gunner. Bree had to say so far this year was starting to the be the best year ever. A new happiness had entered her life and heart to chase away the clouds.
"Is my Vampire enjoying the day so far?"
Picking up the phone in her office Angelica is greeted by a deep Spanish accent on the other end.
"Angelica, I need to turn in that fav along time ago you told me I could."
Angelica holds the phone almost in disbelief as she hears the voice on the other end. It had been almost 10 if not more years since she had heard from her aunt and uncle. As far as she new they still lived in Mexico and were in some bad dealings. What did thet want. Starting to reply in English Angelica relizes they her aunt only spoke Spanish and would have no idea what she was saying. Backing up and starting again think time in Spanish Angelica continues.
"You know I dont agree with what you guys do over there....I..."
"This had nothing to do with us. Its Tray. Some people are after him and mean to kill him. We arnt sure why but can only guess its to do with who we are. For the safty of our son Angelica we want to get him out of here."
Angelica again is a bit surprised. Nether her nor Charlotte had ever met there cousin Tray. She wasnt quiet sure what she could do anyways.
"I don't know what that has to do with me though...."
Cutter her off the voice on the other end becomes a little bit sterner as they continue to insist in Spanish what Angelica was to do.
"You work for that organization I dont remember the name but I know it exsists because Its put a few of my guys behind bars. They protect people, and keep them from harm. That what you can do Angelica. Get Tray there and in there protection. Its the least you could do considering."
Angelica is silent for a long moment. She didnt like the way this sounded and it gave her a bad feeling. Tray could follow in his parents foot steps and cause trouble here and for everything at TJY. This could go very bad.
Sencing Angelica's hesatince the voice on the other end talks once again.
"Remember we can make life rough for you and everyone you know. We have our ways that even you cant stop. Your sister just got married didnt she and I believe her husband has been in trouble before did he not? I had them to find evidence on ether of them that proves more than they thought. Think it over and get back to me by the end of tonight, choose wisely or your sisters unhappiness will be on your head."
The phone goes dead and very slowly Angelica hangs it up. A lump forms as she trys to swallow, she wasn't sure what to do. She didn't want anything to happen to Charlotte or Bert they both were so very happy and things were going good. But still the dark cloud hung that if she agreed to this something worse could go wrong. Maybe talking to Reese about it was her best option before doing anything else.
So starting forward again Hope continues her walk. Today was an ok day for her. She hurt a little but being up and moving around was good for her. So today she came to see Dr. Thomas and now was just walking inside since it was raining outside. Tomorrow would be another busy day of tests and treatments that would keep her drained of energy so she would get in today what she could.
"Yes, I'd like a root beerless float please."
Bree looks up at the waitress her face showing no expression. So far the day spend with Gunner had been a good one. This morning they had went to the mall and just walked around enjoying each other and makes others look at them funny. Now it was pretty much the same there here, and picking on the waitress.
Blinking at Gunner and Bree the waitress feels lost for words. She was new and had no idea what these two wanted.
"I don't think we have that."
Looking to Gunner and than back to the waitress Bree cocks her head for a moment studying her for a second.
"We have gotten it here many times, I know you have it so don't argue and just get it made."
Bree new sometimes there joke were mean but it was always funny seeing the reactions of other. She thought so anyways, and after all they were only joking around and being normal well that just wasn't as much fun.
Jotting someone down on her note pad and than looking at the two one more time before turning and leaving the waitress gives a mumble.
"Nothing like crazy people on my second day."
Once the waitress was gone Bree turns to Gunner and the corner of her lips start to twitch as she wanted to smile. Reaching across the table and resting her hand on top of his Bree could feel the happiness inside. It had been a while since Gunner was releaces from jail and she was so happy still. Every day spent with him was something new and would never tire.
Summer was coming to and it would hold many things, like camping with her Uncle, Amanda, and Gunner. Bree had to say so far this year was starting to the be the best year ever. A new happiness had entered her life and heart to chase away the clouds.
"Is my Vampire enjoying the day so far?"
Picking up the phone in her office Angelica is greeted by a deep Spanish accent on the other end.
"Angelica, I need to turn in that fav along time ago you told me I could."
Angelica holds the phone almost in disbelief as she hears the voice on the other end. It had been almost 10 if not more years since she had heard from her aunt and uncle. As far as she new they still lived in Mexico and were in some bad dealings. What did thet want. Starting to reply in English Angelica relizes they her aunt only spoke Spanish and would have no idea what she was saying. Backing up and starting again think time in Spanish Angelica continues.
"You know I dont agree with what you guys do over there....I..."
"This had nothing to do with us. Its Tray. Some people are after him and mean to kill him. We arnt sure why but can only guess its to do with who we are. For the safty of our son Angelica we want to get him out of here."
Angelica again is a bit surprised. Nether her nor Charlotte had ever met there cousin Tray. She wasnt quiet sure what she could do anyways.
"I don't know what that has to do with me though...."
Cutter her off the voice on the other end becomes a little bit sterner as they continue to insist in Spanish what Angelica was to do.
"You work for that organization I dont remember the name but I know it exsists because Its put a few of my guys behind bars. They protect people, and keep them from harm. That what you can do Angelica. Get Tray there and in there protection. Its the least you could do considering."
Angelica is silent for a long moment. She didnt like the way this sounded and it gave her a bad feeling. Tray could follow in his parents foot steps and cause trouble here and for everything at TJY. This could go very bad.
Sencing Angelica's hesatince the voice on the other end talks once again.
"Remember we can make life rough for you and everyone you know. We have our ways that even you cant stop. Your sister just got married didnt she and I believe her husband has been in trouble before did he not? I had them to find evidence on ether of them that proves more than they thought. Think it over and get back to me by the end of tonight, choose wisely or your sisters unhappiness will be on your head."
The phone goes dead and very slowly Angelica hangs it up. A lump forms as she trys to swallow, she wasn't sure what to do. She didn't want anything to happen to Charlotte or Bert they both were so very happy and things were going good. But still the dark cloud hung that if she agreed to this something worse could go wrong. Maybe talking to Reese about it was her best option before doing anything else.
Frightening
Watching Beth walk away, Justin felt a twist in his gut. He always did when he spoke his heart, only to see it was not taken well. He probably shouldn't have felt so strongly about this whole thing in the first place. Who was he to have told her all that? What right did he have anyway?
Sighing, Justin looks up to the clouds again. "Great. Do I screw everything up, or just the important things?" He could swear he heard God chuckle.
Lowering his gaze, he starts to walk slowly back towards the parking lot where this whole day had started. This whole miserable, rotten, ineffective, stupid day. He sighs again. Beth was looking for someone to ride it out with her and take the time and take the effort... but she showed no signs of ever being willing even if that someone showed up. It was vicious circle and he was sad she was caught in it. Maybe he'd handled the whole thing incorrectly from the beginning. But how far did he have to go? Couldn't he ever find a normal relationship? Maybe it was him. Did he attract people who needed more than the average person or was it just a coincidence?
Getting into his truck, Justin hardly notices his cold, wet clothes clinging to him. He doesn't leave right away. His mind was still too busy.
Beth viewed him as unwilling to stick it out with her. That much was obvious. He hadn't meant that by his speech. He was just trying to express what he felt and maybe it came out all wrong. Part of the time he... he had been talking about himself. But seeing that look in her eye... the one that said she was happy the way she was.... he had resigned to the fact that she probably didn't view him as that person. So he'd made a point to say he didn't need her to change for him - he hadn't wanted to scare her away from him. Apparently that backfired as well.
He liked Beth. He liked seeing her when he came here. It broke up his day and gave him someone to talk to once his session with Scott was over. Would she even want to talk to him after this? He hadn't meant to hurt or offend. He just felt such passion for... for...
His hand comes down hard on the steering wheel. That was his problem. He had too much passion. He was too aggressive. Always pushing too much. He refuses to think about all the people he had actually helped. Today he was focusing on the negative and the few people he'd never been able to help. There were just a few, but what had happened? Why hadn't he been capable of helping them? Even now, he was losing his grip on Scott and his case was about life or death in the end.
Justin tires to push all his thoughts aside as he starts his pickup. Who was he to think he was so important that people's lives rode only on him? He hadn't just made or broke Beth - she had her own life and he was a mere speck in everything else she had going on. Whether he'd been stupid today or not wouldn't matter much. And with Scott - Justin wasn't the only one that had worked with him. It wasn't like the whole existence of the Elite rode on his shoulders. Was he really so prideful to think that the things he did and say would have that great of an impact? Or... was it reality? He finally pulls out of the parking lot.
Scott stares out his window, his fingers pressed against the cool glass. Ever since he'd gotten back to his room, he had felt something inside being torn. He wasn't sure what it was, but something inside was breaking again. What Justin had said... what Scott had been made to think through... would this torture ever end?
His lower lip quivers. He was still in his wet clothes but didn't move from the window. He was going to have to face the shadows, wasn't he? He was going to have to do it. And it was frightening... so very frightening.
The first of many tears rolls down his cheek.
Sighing, Justin looks up to the clouds again. "Great. Do I screw everything up, or just the important things?" He could swear he heard God chuckle.
Lowering his gaze, he starts to walk slowly back towards the parking lot where this whole day had started. This whole miserable, rotten, ineffective, stupid day. He sighs again. Beth was looking for someone to ride it out with her and take the time and take the effort... but she showed no signs of ever being willing even if that someone showed up. It was vicious circle and he was sad she was caught in it. Maybe he'd handled the whole thing incorrectly from the beginning. But how far did he have to go? Couldn't he ever find a normal relationship? Maybe it was him. Did he attract people who needed more than the average person or was it just a coincidence?
Getting into his truck, Justin hardly notices his cold, wet clothes clinging to him. He doesn't leave right away. His mind was still too busy.
Beth viewed him as unwilling to stick it out with her. That much was obvious. He hadn't meant that by his speech. He was just trying to express what he felt and maybe it came out all wrong. Part of the time he... he had been talking about himself. But seeing that look in her eye... the one that said she was happy the way she was.... he had resigned to the fact that she probably didn't view him as that person. So he'd made a point to say he didn't need her to change for him - he hadn't wanted to scare her away from him. Apparently that backfired as well.
He liked Beth. He liked seeing her when he came here. It broke up his day and gave him someone to talk to once his session with Scott was over. Would she even want to talk to him after this? He hadn't meant to hurt or offend. He just felt such passion for... for...
His hand comes down hard on the steering wheel. That was his problem. He had too much passion. He was too aggressive. Always pushing too much. He refuses to think about all the people he had actually helped. Today he was focusing on the negative and the few people he'd never been able to help. There were just a few, but what had happened? Why hadn't he been capable of helping them? Even now, he was losing his grip on Scott and his case was about life or death in the end.
Justin tires to push all his thoughts aside as he starts his pickup. Who was he to think he was so important that people's lives rode only on him? He hadn't just made or broke Beth - she had her own life and he was a mere speck in everything else she had going on. Whether he'd been stupid today or not wouldn't matter much. And with Scott - Justin wasn't the only one that had worked with him. It wasn't like the whole existence of the Elite rode on his shoulders. Was he really so prideful to think that the things he did and say would have that great of an impact? Or... was it reality? He finally pulls out of the parking lot.
Scott stares out his window, his fingers pressed against the cool glass. Ever since he'd gotten back to his room, he had felt something inside being torn. He wasn't sure what it was, but something inside was breaking again. What Justin had said... what Scott had been made to think through... would this torture ever end?
His lower lip quivers. He was still in his wet clothes but didn't move from the window. He was going to have to face the shadows, wasn't he? He was going to have to do it. And it was frightening... so very frightening.
The first of many tears rolls down his cheek.
Maybe Someday
Hearing Justin's words Beth listens like he asked, but moves her hand from his own letting it fall to her side. She was find the way she was...alone or not she liked it. Once he was done Beth shifts a little before looking up at him again. Squinting her eyes a little bit in the rain Beth didn't know how to feel at the moment.
"Maybe someday I'll find someone willing to walk through the dark days and keep pushing forward with me till I'm ready. So far I haven't come across someone."
She'd wondered at on point if Justin would of been that person but now she didn't think so. He was say good bye, and telling her to open up the same stuff every other councilor would say. Was he different? Beth didn't know confushen laced her eyes, a confusion she didn't like.
"Goodbye Justin!"
Putting her hands back into her jacket pockets Beth side steps a little and walks slowly to the building. The rain was still coming down and she liked it, but she didn't feel like enjoying it to much at the moment to much was running through her head.
Sapphire gives a giggle returning Gage's kiss. Her eyes roaming his face. How happy she felt being there with him just relaxing.
Leaning in and giving him another kiss to Sapphire brings her hand to the side of his face and runs her finger over her cheek and jaw for a moment.
"Mmmm...and you make it so the tough days done seem so bad. Knowing I am gonna see you brings the bright spot."
"Maybe someday I'll find someone willing to walk through the dark days and keep pushing forward with me till I'm ready. So far I haven't come across someone."
She'd wondered at on point if Justin would of been that person but now she didn't think so. He was say good bye, and telling her to open up the same stuff every other councilor would say. Was he different? Beth didn't know confushen laced her eyes, a confusion she didn't like.
"Goodbye Justin!"
Putting her hands back into her jacket pockets Beth side steps a little and walks slowly to the building. The rain was still coming down and she liked it, but she didn't feel like enjoying it to much at the moment to much was running through her head.
Sapphire gives a giggle returning Gage's kiss. Her eyes roaming his face. How happy she felt being there with him just relaxing.
Leaning in and giving him another kiss to Sapphire brings her hand to the side of his face and runs her finger over her cheek and jaw for a moment.
"Mmmm...and you make it so the tough days done seem so bad. Knowing I am gonna see you brings the bright spot."
Ray of sunshine
Justin is glad when Beth finally takes his hand. He hadn't been sure whether she would or not. They'd gained a little ground, through the days of meeting each other on the sidewalk. Perhaps neither would admit they'd looked for each other.
Shaking her hand, his grasp is warm despite the cool rain. It's strong but with a gentleness reserved for those he thought deserved it.
Still holding her hand, Justin catches Beth's eye again. "I know I will see you again - whether from a distance or meeting face-to-face. But if I never get the chance to speak my mind again, I want to do it now. Please hear me out."
Searching her eyes, his gaze pleads with her. "Don't be afraid." His voice is quiet, almost too quiet to be heard amidst the rain and low thunder. "There are people out there who will accept your pain and your scars, whatever they may be. There are people out there who will not be scared of what's inside and will not walk away because of a marred past. They do exist, Beth."
He lets her hand slip from his. "You are denying yourself so much happiness." A sadness fills his eyes... one he felt deeply for a woman trapped in a dark world. "You like to say alone is fine, but you force yourself to live in loneliness because you're afraid to let anyone in. So you suffer. People will try to help carry your burdens but you'll refuse because you're strong enough to do it on your own. But in the end... you're still alone."
Justin's voice is filled with a quiet passion. A true sincerity almost desperate. "Day after day I try to get to know you. And I'm glad for the laughs we've had. I like your smile. I like seeing that ray of sunshine that hides behind those clouds in your eyes. But you've put up a barrier I can't break. You've basically said that you don't have time to form friendships and you refuse to let people into your life. And..." He frowns a sorrowful frown. "...I've learned that I can't fix that. I can't change that. But I'm not asking you to do it with me. I'm no one special. But I'm asking that sometime... when you're ready... that you do let someone in. And years from now when I see you from a distance, I'll see that ray of sunshine and know that the clouds are gone."
Cocking his head, he manages a gentle smile, the rain still running down his face. "You better go see your sister before she thinks you're not coming."
Gage grins. "I do, huh?" He leans over and gives Sapphire a light kiss on the lips. "Did you know you make me feel good all the time?"
He returns for a little stronger kiss this time, pulling away with a smile. "I may live in a crappy apartment and have a crappy job but at least I got you."
Shaking her hand, his grasp is warm despite the cool rain. It's strong but with a gentleness reserved for those he thought deserved it.
Still holding her hand, Justin catches Beth's eye again. "I know I will see you again - whether from a distance or meeting face-to-face. But if I never get the chance to speak my mind again, I want to do it now. Please hear me out."
Searching her eyes, his gaze pleads with her. "Don't be afraid." His voice is quiet, almost too quiet to be heard amidst the rain and low thunder. "There are people out there who will accept your pain and your scars, whatever they may be. There are people out there who will not be scared of what's inside and will not walk away because of a marred past. They do exist, Beth."
He lets her hand slip from his. "You are denying yourself so much happiness." A sadness fills his eyes... one he felt deeply for a woman trapped in a dark world. "You like to say alone is fine, but you force yourself to live in loneliness because you're afraid to let anyone in. So you suffer. People will try to help carry your burdens but you'll refuse because you're strong enough to do it on your own. But in the end... you're still alone."
Justin's voice is filled with a quiet passion. A true sincerity almost desperate. "Day after day I try to get to know you. And I'm glad for the laughs we've had. I like your smile. I like seeing that ray of sunshine that hides behind those clouds in your eyes. But you've put up a barrier I can't break. You've basically said that you don't have time to form friendships and you refuse to let people into your life. And..." He frowns a sorrowful frown. "...I've learned that I can't fix that. I can't change that. But I'm not asking you to do it with me. I'm no one special. But I'm asking that sometime... when you're ready... that you do let someone in. And years from now when I see you from a distance, I'll see that ray of sunshine and know that the clouds are gone."
Cocking his head, he manages a gentle smile, the rain still running down his face. "You better go see your sister before she thinks you're not coming."
Gage grins. "I do, huh?" He leans over and gives Sapphire a light kiss on the lips. "Did you know you make me feel good all the time?"
He returns for a little stronger kiss this time, pulling away with a smile. "I may live in a crappy apartment and have a crappy job but at least I got you."
Wind takes you
Looking down at Justin's hand Beth study's it for a long moment. Maybe this would be the last time she would see Justin would a hand shake be so bad? Beth weighed the options in her head for a moment before reaching out her hand. A little timid but she finally touches Justin's grasping it for a hand shake.
"It has been for sure. I hope where ever the wind takes you next its something worth sticking around for."
Beth gives a small smile to Justin She did wish him the best of luck. It would be a little sad not to see Justin every day but everyone had to move on and she kept herself from getting close to him because she new this would happen. Yes deep down, there was a little twinge of pain still, she'd let Justin closer than most people.
Continuing to look down at Gage Sapphire gives a laugh. She had forgotten Gage only had a shower and no bath. How she forgot she wasn't sure but she felt a little silly.
Putting her hands on her hips and continuing to look down at Gage still Sapphire smiles.
"I do huh? I can't say I new that I never looked up at myself."
Moving down and joining Gage on the mattress Sapphire drapes her on arm over Gage as she rests her other in her hand looking at him.
"Did you know...you look good all the time?"
"It has been for sure. I hope where ever the wind takes you next its something worth sticking around for."
Beth gives a small smile to Justin She did wish him the best of luck. It would be a little sad not to see Justin every day but everyone had to move on and she kept herself from getting close to him because she new this would happen. Yes deep down, there was a little twinge of pain still, she'd let Justin closer than most people.
Continuing to look down at Gage Sapphire gives a laugh. She had forgotten Gage only had a shower and no bath. How she forgot she wasn't sure but she felt a little silly.
Putting her hands on her hips and continuing to look down at Gage still Sapphire smiles.
"I do huh? I can't say I new that I never looked up at myself."
Moving down and joining Gage on the mattress Sapphire drapes her on arm over Gage as she rests her other in her hand looking at him.
"Did you know...you look good all the time?"
If I don't
Justin searches Beth's face a moment, almost as if he's confused. There was much he wanted to ask. There was much he wanted to challenge. But he held his tongue. For once, he would let it go.
"Yeah..." He steps forward a little, stretching out his hand. "If I don't see you again... it's been nice."
"Mmhmm." Gage sighs deeply, still so sleepy but trying his hardest to stay awake and alert for Sapphire. "You forget - I've only got a shower. No tub. Though the thought is appealing."
Looking up at her from his position on the floor, a weary grin comes to his lips. "You look good at any angle, you know that?"
"Yeah..." He steps forward a little, stretching out his hand. "If I don't see you again... it's been nice."
"Mmhmm." Gage sighs deeply, still so sleepy but trying his hardest to stay awake and alert for Sapphire. "You forget - I've only got a shower. No tub. Though the thought is appealing."
Looking up at her from his position on the floor, a weary grin comes to his lips. "You look good at any angle, you know that?"
6/11/10
Forward
Beth gives a little knowing nod to Justin. He was right soon his job would be done, and he would be gone. Maybe thats why kept Beth from interacting with him more the fact soon...he'd be gone too.
"Mm...hey you never know maybe someone else will pop up needing help and you'll stay longer. Never know whats gonna come you way right?"
Knowing she had stood out in the rain a little longer than normal and it was past her normal time seeing her sister already Beth gives a little shakes though just gets wet again.
"I better get going. It was good seeing you again Justin. I look forward to our little chats."
"Mmm...Supreme sounds good."
Heading off into the kitchen it doesn't take Sapphire to order a sheet pizza and some wings. Once finished she comes back into the room seeing Gage flop back down on the bed.
Coming closer and looking down at him she gives a laugh a little. It was a bummer he had to work again tomorrow she new he was sore, but there really was nothing she could do.
"Well at least you get to rest today, and we get to spend today together right?"
Sapphire tried to look on the bright side for Gage trying to keep his spirit up knowing this was hard on him, but also knowing that in time his body would get use to it.
"Maybe what you really need is a good soak in the tub to loosen everything up. Trust me it does wonders. On the days I am stressed at work its amazing."
"Mm...hey you never know maybe someone else will pop up needing help and you'll stay longer. Never know whats gonna come you way right?"
Knowing she had stood out in the rain a little longer than normal and it was past her normal time seeing her sister already Beth gives a little shakes though just gets wet again.
"I better get going. It was good seeing you again Justin. I look forward to our little chats."
"Mmm...Supreme sounds good."
Heading off into the kitchen it doesn't take Sapphire to order a sheet pizza and some wings. Once finished she comes back into the room seeing Gage flop back down on the bed.
Coming closer and looking down at him she gives a laugh a little. It was a bummer he had to work again tomorrow she new he was sore, but there really was nothing she could do.
"Well at least you get to rest today, and we get to spend today together right?"
Sapphire tried to look on the bright side for Gage trying to keep his spirit up knowing this was hard on him, but also knowing that in time his body would get use to it.
"Maybe what you really need is a good soak in the tub to loosen everything up. Trust me it does wonders. On the days I am stressed at work its amazing."
Unless
Justin chuckles and shakes his head. "Yeah, well... one of these days my job here will be done, and someone else will have to be the clown around here."
Looking around through the rain he just stands, his mind wandering many directions at once. Eventually, he looks back at Beth again. "Unless there's something else to keep me coming back here."
"Uh... whatever. Supreme? Whatever suits you, suits me." Gage swallows the rest of his coffee, feeling halfway alert now.
As Sapphire orders the pizza from her phone, Gage's phone rings. Checking the caller ID, he didn't recognize the number but decides to pick up anyway. "Yeah?" As his conversation continues, his shoulders drop a little. "Yeah... okay."
Hanging up, he sighs and flops back down on his mattress, forgetting about his sore spot and biting his lip as he lays flat on his back. Seeing Sapphire return, he shrugs. "That was my boss. I have to work tomorrow now too."
Looking around through the rain he just stands, his mind wandering many directions at once. Eventually, he looks back at Beth again. "Unless there's something else to keep me coming back here."
"Uh... whatever. Supreme? Whatever suits you, suits me." Gage swallows the rest of his coffee, feeling halfway alert now.
As Sapphire orders the pizza from her phone, Gage's phone rings. Checking the caller ID, he didn't recognize the number but decides to pick up anyway. "Yeah?" As his conversation continues, his shoulders drop a little. "Yeah... okay."
Hanging up, he sighs and flops back down on his mattress, forgetting about his sore spot and biting his lip as he lays flat on his back. Seeing Sapphire return, he shrugs. "That was my boss. I have to work tomorrow now too."
Clowns
Beth was happy to know Justin was doing a little better. Though there seemed to be a weary look in his eye still things seemed at least a tad better.
"I am happy to know your doing better, defiantly a good thing."
Shifting her weight a little but Beth sticks her hands in her coat pocket. Just standing there for a moment Beth takes a look around for a moment at the now quiet yard. Most people having gone inside to get out of the rain. Maybe she was crazy to be standing here, but she loved it. If they let her she would bring Sarah out in the rain too.
"I'd have to say...I like clowns. It was odd not seeing you for so long, But I am happy you rested and your better now."
Continuing to rub Sapphire gives a nod though she was behind Gage and he couldn't see her. She was happy he agreeded to her paying and she didn't mind calling ether.
Feeling him suck in she new she found a sore spot and tried to remind herself to take it a little easier that way. Hearing his comment it made her chuckle just a little.
"Mmm...I only enjoy it if its feels good. If not than its no fun."
Giving his back a tiny pat Sapphire stops and stands. She'd go order a pizza and than see about a movie to watch.
"What do u want on the pizza today?"
As Dani slides off his lap and takes his hand causing him to stand, Dalton grabs his sun glasses from the desk before putting them on and following Dani out of the office. A chuckle escapes his lips.
"Hey, its ok I'm just going to say it was a woman thing and leave it at that, I think it will keep me out of trouble that way."
Humor was laced in Dalton's words though he didn't think Dani would find it as funny as he. Continuing out of TJY Dalton opts to take his truck finding it had a little more space than Dani's. Pulling out of the parking lot he thinks as they drive.
"I'm thinking we hit up the Western Buffet, I am really hungry today."
"I am happy to know your doing better, defiantly a good thing."
Shifting her weight a little but Beth sticks her hands in her coat pocket. Just standing there for a moment Beth takes a look around for a moment at the now quiet yard. Most people having gone inside to get out of the rain. Maybe she was crazy to be standing here, but she loved it. If they let her she would bring Sarah out in the rain too.
"I'd have to say...I like clowns. It was odd not seeing you for so long, But I am happy you rested and your better now."
Continuing to rub Sapphire gives a nod though she was behind Gage and he couldn't see her. She was happy he agreeded to her paying and she didn't mind calling ether.
Feeling him suck in she new she found a sore spot and tried to remind herself to take it a little easier that way. Hearing his comment it made her chuckle just a little.
"Mmm...I only enjoy it if its feels good. If not than its no fun."
Giving his back a tiny pat Sapphire stops and stands. She'd go order a pizza and than see about a movie to watch.
"What do u want on the pizza today?"
As Dani slides off his lap and takes his hand causing him to stand, Dalton grabs his sun glasses from the desk before putting them on and following Dani out of the office. A chuckle escapes his lips.
"Hey, its ok I'm just going to say it was a woman thing and leave it at that, I think it will keep me out of trouble that way."
Humor was laced in Dalton's words though he didn't think Dani would find it as funny as he. Continuing out of TJY Dalton opts to take his truck finding it had a little more space than Dani's. Pulling out of the parking lot he thinks as they drive.
"I'm thinking we hit up the Western Buffet, I am really hungry today."
Better, thanks
So Beth's mother was dead. Justin had wondered if both her parents were dead, the way she'd talked about her sister, but now at least part of it was confirmed.
He chuckles lightly at her comment of not seeing him. "What, you noticed I wasn't here? I thought maybe my absence would be a nice reprieve. No fool clown to embarrass himself."
Cocking his head, his wry grin remains on his face, though it was almost as if his words were more serious than a flippant tease. "My head's better, thanks. Headache's are gone so I'm back to climbing ladders and fixing air conditioning units."
Moving away from the wall, Gage leans forward, letting Sapphire rub his back. As her fingers hit a knot, he winces, but says nothing.
Mulling over her offer, deep down he hated it that she was constantly having to buy him things. But one day it would be different. One day he would be able to stand on his own two feet.
"Okay... that sounds alright. You can call and order." He didn't like admitting that he didn't really like talking on the phone with anybody but Sapphire either.
Her thumb hits his sore spot again and this time he sucks in a sharp breath. "Having fun?"
A smile spreads on Dani's face and she leans into Dalton's hand. "Surprises keep life worth living." Her smile widens. "I like to think you were a surprise in my life."
Laughing softly, she leans up to give him a light kiss on the lips. "Lunch it is then." Sliding off his lap, she turns around, her hand finding his. "You get to pick where we go though. I... I know I haven't been easy to be around lately so... this one's yours."
He chuckles lightly at her comment of not seeing him. "What, you noticed I wasn't here? I thought maybe my absence would be a nice reprieve. No fool clown to embarrass himself."
Cocking his head, his wry grin remains on his face, though it was almost as if his words were more serious than a flippant tease. "My head's better, thanks. Headache's are gone so I'm back to climbing ladders and fixing air conditioning units."
Moving away from the wall, Gage leans forward, letting Sapphire rub his back. As her fingers hit a knot, he winces, but says nothing.
Mulling over her offer, deep down he hated it that she was constantly having to buy him things. But one day it would be different. One day he would be able to stand on his own two feet.
"Okay... that sounds alright. You can call and order." He didn't like admitting that he didn't really like talking on the phone with anybody but Sapphire either.
Her thumb hits his sore spot again and this time he sucks in a sharp breath. "Having fun?"
A smile spreads on Dani's face and she leans into Dalton's hand. "Surprises keep life worth living." Her smile widens. "I like to think you were a surprise in my life."
Laughing softly, she leans up to give him a light kiss on the lips. "Lunch it is then." Sliding off his lap, she turns around, her hand finding his. "You get to pick where we go though. I... I know I haven't been easy to be around lately so... this one's yours."
Memorie alive
Seeing Gage wince a little bit Sapphire new his back was hurting him. Motioning for him to sitting up and away from the wall Sapphire moves again so she is sitting behind him. Placing her hands on his back Sapphire starts to rub his back trying to get the muscles to loosen a little.
"How about you save your money to buy some grocery tomorrow and I'll pay for the pizza. Than when you get your first check you can take me out to dinner if you wanna pay me back."
Sapphire really didn't mind buy for things someone times, it made her feel good that she could help out too and she would never ask or payment. But she new Gage hated when she did so offering for him to repay her would at least let him help.
Continuing to keep his arms around Dani Dalton rubs one of his hands over her arm while still holding her close. Just letting his love flow through him holding her.
As Dani pulls away and asks about lunch Dalton gives a smile. Bringing a hand to the side of her face he runs a thumb over her cheek.
"I'd love to go to lunch with you, as for coming over without calling I enjoy surprises from you."
"I've always thought rain was calming. My mom always liked it and I would sit for hours with her watching it rain. I guess thats where the love comes from. Its kinda like keeping her memorie alive."
Lifting her head to the sky and smiling again as the rain falls on her Beth didn't care about getting wet, a little rain never hurt anyone. Feeling the rain start to let up a little Beth turns back to Justin wiping some of the water from her face.
"I'd say same stuff different day but for a week there was no you to chat with so I guess today since I am talking to you its something different. Hows your head feeling?"
"How about you save your money to buy some grocery tomorrow and I'll pay for the pizza. Than when you get your first check you can take me out to dinner if you wanna pay me back."
Sapphire really didn't mind buy for things someone times, it made her feel good that she could help out too and she would never ask or payment. But she new Gage hated when she did so offering for him to repay her would at least let him help.
Continuing to keep his arms around Dani Dalton rubs one of his hands over her arm while still holding her close. Just letting his love flow through him holding her.
As Dani pulls away and asks about lunch Dalton gives a smile. Bringing a hand to the side of her face he runs a thumb over her cheek.
"I'd love to go to lunch with you, as for coming over without calling I enjoy surprises from you."
"I've always thought rain was calming. My mom always liked it and I would sit for hours with her watching it rain. I guess thats where the love comes from. Its kinda like keeping her memorie alive."
Lifting her head to the sky and smiling again as the rain falls on her Beth didn't care about getting wet, a little rain never hurt anyone. Feeling the rain start to let up a little Beth turns back to Justin wiping some of the water from her face.
"I'd say same stuff different day but for a week there was no you to chat with so I guess today since I am talking to you its something different. Hows your head feeling?"
Somebody hears me
"Mmm." Gage shakes his head, his eyes falling closed again. "There's not enough food in the kitchen to make anything... unless you want a bowl of cereal for supper. I have to go shopping tomorrow if I can scrape together a few bucks."
He opens his eyes and takes another sip of coffee. "Just give me a couple minutes for this to kick in." Moving a little, he winces. The longer he was up, the more his back hurt. He really didn't want to go out anywhere tonight. He didn't feel like it at all.
"Or... I can scrape together the money now and... we can order in pizza. But only if you want to."
Dani nestles into Dalton's big arms, feeling so small, but so protected. She was moving on and dealing with her problems, but he morning had been a tough one. The best place to go was Dalton's arms.
"I like it when you call me that," she murmurs softly.
Her fingers move to fiddle with the buttons on his shirt. She could be a strong young woman who knew what she was doing and take care of herself. But sometimes it was nice to just be a little girl in Dalton's arms and know she was loved.
"I thought maybe we could go somewhere for a late lunch?" She straightens to look at him, staying on his lap. "Unless you've already eaten. I'm sorry I didn't call first."
Hearing a voice behind him, Justin snaps to attention, his eyes opening and arms lowering as he turns in surprise. Seeing it was Beth and receiving her comment, a wry grin emerges. "Oh, Somebody hears me... no matter how loud the the thunder rolls."
He looks back up to the dark sky, blinking as the rain hits his face. "It is calming though, isn't it? Nothing you can do but just let it rain, so you might as well embrace its peace instead of fight it."
Lighting flashes across the sky and he stretches out his arms again, completely at the weather's mercy. After a moment or two, the rain still comes but not quite as hard. Soaked to the bone, Justin lets his arms fall back down to his sides and he looks back to Beth again. He cocks his head a little, his smile still there but it seemed a little different than it had the week before. "What's up?"
He opens his eyes and takes another sip of coffee. "Just give me a couple minutes for this to kick in." Moving a little, he winces. The longer he was up, the more his back hurt. He really didn't want to go out anywhere tonight. He didn't feel like it at all.
"Or... I can scrape together the money now and... we can order in pizza. But only if you want to."
Dani nestles into Dalton's big arms, feeling so small, but so protected. She was moving on and dealing with her problems, but he morning had been a tough one. The best place to go was Dalton's arms.
"I like it when you call me that," she murmurs softly.
Her fingers move to fiddle with the buttons on his shirt. She could be a strong young woman who knew what she was doing and take care of herself. But sometimes it was nice to just be a little girl in Dalton's arms and know she was loved.
"I thought maybe we could go somewhere for a late lunch?" She straightens to look at him, staying on his lap. "Unless you've already eaten. I'm sorry I didn't call first."
Hearing a voice behind him, Justin snaps to attention, his eyes opening and arms lowering as he turns in surprise. Seeing it was Beth and receiving her comment, a wry grin emerges. "Oh, Somebody hears me... no matter how loud the the thunder rolls."
He looks back up to the dark sky, blinking as the rain hits his face. "It is calming though, isn't it? Nothing you can do but just let it rain, so you might as well embrace its peace instead of fight it."
Lighting flashes across the sky and he stretches out his arms again, completely at the weather's mercy. After a moment or two, the rain still comes but not quite as hard. Soaked to the bone, Justin lets his arms fall back down to his sides and he looks back to Beth again. He cocks his head a little, his smile still there but it seemed a little different than it had the week before. "What's up?"
Just me
Smiling back at Gage Sapphire gives her head a little shake at his apology. She understood and had no problem with it at all.
"You don't have to be sorry Sweety, you were tired and that can't be held against you. At least I get to see you now."
Wondering over to the mattress Sapphire sits down next to Gage softly making sure not to shoot him and his coffee all over the place. Leaning her head aganst his shoulder before sitting up again and leaning against the wall Sapphire glaces at her watch.
"Its five thirty...Day light is burning but sometimes staying in is nice. Did you want me to make us some dinner and we can watch a movie. I don't wanna make you go out if you sore and tired still."
Keeping her arms around Jason and leaning her head slightly on his back Katie enjoys the ride. It ever failed she liked the feel of having her arms around Jason on his bike and leaning into him. Feeling free was nice, and being with her love was even better.
Mmm...the lake...are you reading my mine or something?
Katie gives a few tugs on Jason's emotions letting her joke linger. Letting her arm tighten around Jason a little more too.
Looking up to see Dani enter the office Dalton smiles. About to say something he stops as she just continues to the desk and turning his chair around. Blinking just a little it was uncommon for Dani to enter and not say anything.
As she slips into his lap though and her words follow Dalton's arms slip around Dani and bring her close to him. Leaning his head down on top of her Dalton smiles as her can smell the sweet smell of her shampoo.
"I missed you to Sunshine!"
Dani always made Dalton feel so good. When she was in his arms it felt like nothing else mattered. His looks weren't important, his past didn't matter Dani cared about him for who he was and that was all that mattered to her.
As the rain starts Beth gets out of her car. Just standing there for a long moment she lets it hit her in the face. Just letting the cooling sensation run down her skin not minding the feeling at all. Finally shutting the car door and making her way up the sidewalk a smile spread across her lips continuing her walk.
Completely lost in the moment of the rain Beth's head snaps to attachen as she hears someone shout though the thunder and the rain. Squinting trying her best to see through the rain she can make out Justin. It had been almost a week since the last time she saw him. She even missed him a little since it broke the normal ruteen. But seeing him now she was happy to know at least he was still alive.
"I'm going to have to try that next time I need to let it out. Just yell into the thunder and no on can hear me. The rain though just feels way to calming."
Standing there it was obvious to see rain, thunder and lighting didn't both her at all, in fact the look in her eye said she liked it.
"You don't have to be sorry Sweety, you were tired and that can't be held against you. At least I get to see you now."
Wondering over to the mattress Sapphire sits down next to Gage softly making sure not to shoot him and his coffee all over the place. Leaning her head aganst his shoulder before sitting up again and leaning against the wall Sapphire glaces at her watch.
"Its five thirty...Day light is burning but sometimes staying in is nice. Did you want me to make us some dinner and we can watch a movie. I don't wanna make you go out if you sore and tired still."
Keeping her arms around Jason and leaning her head slightly on his back Katie enjoys the ride. It ever failed she liked the feel of having her arms around Jason on his bike and leaning into him. Feeling free was nice, and being with her love was even better.
Mmm...the lake...are you reading my mine or something?
Katie gives a few tugs on Jason's emotions letting her joke linger. Letting her arm tighten around Jason a little more too.
Looking up to see Dani enter the office Dalton smiles. About to say something he stops as she just continues to the desk and turning his chair around. Blinking just a little it was uncommon for Dani to enter and not say anything.
As she slips into his lap though and her words follow Dalton's arms slip around Dani and bring her close to him. Leaning his head down on top of her Dalton smiles as her can smell the sweet smell of her shampoo.
"I missed you to Sunshine!"
Dani always made Dalton feel so good. When she was in his arms it felt like nothing else mattered. His looks weren't important, his past didn't matter Dani cared about him for who he was and that was all that mattered to her.
As the rain starts Beth gets out of her car. Just standing there for a long moment she lets it hit her in the face. Just letting the cooling sensation run down her skin not minding the feeling at all. Finally shutting the car door and making her way up the sidewalk a smile spread across her lips continuing her walk.
Completely lost in the moment of the rain Beth's head snaps to attachen as she hears someone shout though the thunder and the rain. Squinting trying her best to see through the rain she can make out Justin. It had been almost a week since the last time she saw him. She even missed him a little since it broke the normal ruteen. But seeing him now she was happy to know at least he was still alive.
"I'm going to have to try that next time I need to let it out. Just yell into the thunder and no on can hear me. The rain though just feels way to calming."
Standing there it was obvious to see rain, thunder and lighting didn't both her at all, in fact the look in her eye said she liked it.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)
