Let go!

Taking off her own seat belt Nikki raises herself up a little and sift sitting on the back of the seat. Slipping her sandles off so she would just dirt, mud and who knows what else on the leather of the car.

"Maybe someday we will have to take a road tip to the ocean and see that. I think it would be something I'd like to see too. The colors reflecting off the water and shearing there own dance."

Letting her eyes scan the tree line it was what they had, and it was so pretty. After being away it made Nikki realize what she had left behind and how much she really had loved it here and what she had lost when leaving.

As Pete replys the story of the hot dogs Nikki nods her head as a smile spreads across her face. While the story continues her laugh grows louder as tears roll from her eyes and her cheeks start to turn red.

"Oh...I never saw you move so fast, and Lewis was screaming or water, and I was trying so very hard not to laugh because the look on both your faces was incredibly funny. Ah...the ice cream was well worth it though."

Shaking her head and whipping her eyes Nikki thought it was funny all over again. Pushing her sunglasses on top of her head a little more. Leaning back so her hands were on the back of the car she leans back a little the smile on her face as her memories starts to turn.

"Or remember the time we had that kiddie swimming pool and hid out in my backyard so no one would see us and we filled it up and all three of us fit ourselves into it. We didn't care it was the best thing ever. My mom took a picture of that and I think we still have it at the house."

Nikki shakes her head at the memories again. It felt so good to remember, and a little bit of melancholy was there too but at least she was not alone remembering.

"We though we were pretty cool back than. Well maybe you were, and we had our sunglasses and would be following at your heels so we thought that made us cool too."

Seeing the bobber disappear on the pole Beth can only guess there is a fish on the other end. Shifting a little she trys to contain her excitement to see what was on the other end. Hearing Justin's offer for her to reel it in Beth comes closer to him and holds out her hands for the rod. This would be new for sure, but maybe it would be a little fun.

"Ok...I just hold it like this."

Taking a firm hold of the pole Beth starts to reel in the catch. Slowly she does it so the line wont snap having patients as the pole moves all over the place. Continuing to reel finally it pays off as the fish comes out of the water and to her.

"Ohh...he's a big one."

Bringing the poll to her Beth carefully takes hold of the fish and with her other hand she plays with the hook for a few moment getting it out of the fish's mouth. Putting the poll down Beth slowly moves to the water stretching her hand out so she wasn't to close but could reach she carefully put the fish back in.

"There ya go little guy."

Standing up and wiping her hands off on her pants Beth turns back to Justin before coming back to the poll and picking it up.

"Ok, how how do I do this one to cast? The same as the other?"

Blunder

Pete chuckles as he turns on the engine of the car and puts on his own sunglasses. "Yeah... I think I'm happy about that, too."

Pulling out of the parking space, Pete watches for traffic then heads down the road, a little slower than normal. Conversation was kept at a minimum due to the wind blowing, but it felt good and the radio filled in the silent gaps. It wasn't all that uncomfortable though... in some ways, it felt to Pete like time had never passed. But maybe that's just the way it was with a good friend.

Finally getting to the lake, the sun was sinking lower in the sky but there was still some time left before it reached the horizon. Finding a parking space near the beach, it seemed to be a quiet day. Sometimes it appeared less and less people were coming, but that made it all the more enjoyable for the regular visitors.

Cutting the engine and taking off his seatbelt, Pete leans his head back and looks across the beach and out to the treeline where the sun would eventually disappear. "I always wanted to see a sunset on an ocean," he comments. "Where the sun touches the water instead of the trees."

Quiet again, a chuckle comes out of nowhere as Pete starts to laugh. "Do you remember the time we tried to grill hotdogs out here? The whole batch caught on fire and instead of using water and saving them, we just threw them into the sand." More laughter comes at the memory and Pete shakes his head. He'd been seventeen - the leader of the trio since he was oldest. Nikki had just turned thirteen and Lewis was just fourteen. They'd gotten the bright idea for a cookout one summer afternoon and it had ended at the ice cream shop after the hotdogs had been ruined.

Still grinning, Pete takes off his sunglasses, hanging them from his sun visor. "I don't think I ever did tell anyone else about that," he muses. "I was way too cool to admit to that blunder."


"Okay." Justin nods and goes to retrieve the other pole. Starting to reel it in so Beth could use it, the bobber suddenly disappears. Setting the hook, Justin realizes there's a fish at the end of the line and it felt like it was maybe a small bass or good-sized bluegill.

"Ooh, Beth, come here." He meets her halfway with the jiggling rod. "Here... take the rod and you can reel him in." Smiling, he offers her the catch. He'd already set the hook so it should be no problem. "Just hang on and reel it in nice and slow."

somethings

Nikki's grin grows even bigger and her cheeks were starting to hurt but that didn't stop her from doing it. It was nice, defiantly nice to be back and just being here now she new she had made the right choose.

Seeing the waitress come back with the boxes Nikki gives her thanks and takes one. Sliding her salad into the box and dumping the dressing on top of it. By time she got around to eating it she was sure it would be wilted but she didn't much care it will still taste the same.

"Mmm...the lake always has been the best place, and taking the convertible sounds even better to me."

Gathering her things up and standing Nikki gives a small and asks for a bag to put there containers into. Finally all set and down they were both on there way and Nikki goes to her own car locking the doors before heading over to Pete's car and hoping in. Taking her sun glasses from her purse she slips them on before looking to Pete.

"So many things change in life, but something...never change, and for that I happy."

Seeing the line go even farther this time Beth gives a tiny soft sequel excited that she had done it. Looking to Justin again she gives a smile. Fishing wasn't so bad. Hearing Justin's offer for the other pole Beth wondered if she might like that better it was more layed back.

"Yeah I think I will try that one. I might like it better."

A new feeling welled inside Beth. It was one she hadn't felt in so long that it was hard to figure out what it was. She was having fun..learning something new and she liked it.

Best place

"Sure." Justin had no problem helping Beth - it was rather fun having someone along fishing sometimes. And knowing that this might be helping Beth was a plus.

Still smiling, he helps Beth again, his hands sliding over hers, gripping ever-so gently and assisting in another cast, this one going a little farther than the last. "Aw, see? You're a natural."

Backing off a little, his hands slide on her arms before he's standing beside her, watching her reel in the lure. "If you want, I can set you up with a bobber and all you gotta do is cast once then wait until a fish takes the bait. A little less interesting but then you don't have to cast all the time."


Having Nikki rest her hand atop his, Pete looks down at it a moment before letting his thumb run her own for a moment. He hadn't really dwelt on it much before, but right now he realized just how much he missed having a close friend around. He had his coworkers at TJY and he was pretty close to Gunner and Con. But away from work, most of his time was spent alone or with people that weren't really great friends.

Nikki's suggestion brings his eyes back up and a grin creases his lips. Without answering her, he releases her hand to wave at the waitress. "Hey, uh... could we get a couple boxes to go?"

Looking back to Nikki, he gives a little shrug. "Best place for a sunset is the lake. We can take my convertible if you want."

Comfort

Hearing about what happened with Lewis it made Nikki's heart hurt. They had both been such good friends, and hearing Pete was...alright, and Lewis was less than ok was sad. For a moment the look of sadness pass her eyes. Would things have been different if she had never left? Probably not but Nikki couldn't help but wonder anyways if she had been there for her friends if they would of fared well.

"I'm really sorry Pete. I can't imagine how it must have been for you guys, and now you dealing with your brother."

Reaching her hand across the table Nikki lays in on top of his. Giving him a small smile of comfort. She might not have been here for a long time but she still felt a close friendship with Pete and she was here now and wanted him to know that.

"I'll back sure to say an extra prayer for Lewis tonight, and you too. Time does suck but at least we have God in front of us to bring us together, and giving the most comfort of all when we need it."

Looking down at her own plate for a moment and than to Pete, she could still read his body language as she could before. He didn't look very hungry, and she wasn't all that much herself maybe some fresh air would do them good?

"You wanna get out of here and go for a walk or something? The sun is setting soon, we might be able to catch a good sun set."

Beth gives a little laugh as she continues to reel in the line. The mental image she got of Justin when the line snapped was quite funny.

Looking back over her shoulder at Justin for a moment she gives a small nod her words follow but before she talks she gets a whiff of something good. Not sure what is was she new it was coming from Justin and it was good.

"Can you help me one more time so I can make sure I am doing it right?"

Not as hungry

Pete had wondered if Nikki had a significant other in her life, but her enthusiasm to get together and hang out with him made him pretty sure she didn't, at least not right now. He remembered that day with the jetski and a laugh slips out, the twinkle returning to his eyes for just a moment.

Hearing about her search for her dad, Pete nods. He'd known when she was younger she'd had a desire to find him, so he wasn't surprised she'd pursued that.

Once the conversation turns back to him and Lewis though, Pete's gaze drops again. It was time for honesty, no matter how much it hurt. Sighing, he lets the pause lengthen for a few moments as he gathers his thoughts. His fingers pick up a fork to fiddle with.

"Lewis... has been an alcoholic for years now." Pete purses his lips and finally looks up to Nikki again, controlling the emotions connected to the subject. "Our mom, she... it wasn't an accident. We were visiting some needy folks in the bad part of town and she was shot in a driveby shooting. Both Lewis and I were there when it happened. She died at the hospital that same night."

Pausing again, his fingers continue to spin the fork in his hand. "After that, Dad went to pieces. I was on my own but Lewis was still at home and he didn't handle things well either. He struggled a while and I thought he'd come out of it, then I found out he'd started drinking. It got worse and Dad kicked him out of the house. He's been sharing a place with some friends of his ever since, but he can't hold a job for more than a couple weeks... he's in debt up the yingyang but any extra money he gets goes towards the next bottle."

Pete searches Nikki's face, knowing that this information might hurt a bit for her too. "I try to help him when I can, but it's hard. There's only so much I can do. Got him some help once, but a month after he was on the right track, he fell off the wagon again. And now... now I just see him once in a while when I'm off duty so I don't have to arrest him for drunken disorderly or disturbing the peace. And Dad... he moved back to Grandad's old place in Utah about three years ago."

The fork slips from Pete's fingers, clanging on the table, but he lets it just sit there. "I always knew God was somewhere there in that whole mess so even after I got in a bit of trouble there for a while, I came back around and have tried to stay on the right path since. Still going to the same church. Lewis though..." He shakes his head. "He hasn't seen the inside of a church since Mom's funeral."

Suddenly they're interrupted by the food coming and the plates are set before them with some light conversation with the waitress. Alone again though, Pete looks down at his sandwich. He wasn't as hungry now.

Looking to Nikki again, he forces a smile. "Time sucks. Sometimes I wish I was back in high school again. But... it's not so bad, ya know? Not for me, anyway."


Justin laughs, but not to make fun of Beth. "Don't worry. Sometimes I still forget what I'm doing. A couple weeks ago I tried to cast without releasing the bale. The lure snapped right off and went flying into the middle of the pond."

Once she's got the cast reeled back in, Justin cocks his head around her shoulder to see her. "Want more help or you think you got it?"

Trouble Making

Nikki can't help but give another laugh again. Studying Pete for another long moment she cocks her head to one side, and than to the other mapping him with her eyes, and remembering how he looked so long ago compared to now.

"I think now seeing it, you look better without hair. I like it anyways."

Feeling the sudden awkwardness at the table it didn't come as to much of a shock to Nikki. In a sence she figured it would be coming sooner or later since it had been so long so she was prepared for it.

Hearing about Pete's moment though her brain seemed to stop even though Pete kept moving. Nikki had always liked Pete's mom. She was a kind lady who raised her boys right no matter how much trouble they were in. She also though for sure Nikki would marry one of her son one day.

"Oh Pete, I'm so sorry about your mom. I had no idea. It's defiantly a good reason to get into the law enforcement though. Your mom would be proud."

Knowing he probably wanted to move on from that part of the conversation Nikki didn't blame him. It was probably hard to talk about that she understood.

Continuing to listen to him though Nikki can see a look in Pete's eyes and she knows life has probably been less than good even though his words didn't match. Why would be bother with the lie she didn't know other than for the sake of her not knowing life has sucked for him. But everyone's life wasn't so great sometimes and Nikki understood that.

"You still have the jetski? Man, I remember the first time I rode that thing I was scared out of my mind and Lewis took it up some jump they had set up. I never screamed so loud in my life. Maybe now that I'm gonna be around we totally should hang out more again and just have some fun."

Having the conversation come back to her once again Nikki she thinks for a long moment. Her life hadn't been great, but it really hadn't been bad either.

"Life has been alright. Went to school for nursing, and thats when I moved. Tried to find my dad a few times and failed. But the last time I looked I had found him. He'd started a new family though had a wife, four kids, and I turned around and walked away not wanting to bother him. I don't know why but just...I saw him in the backyard with the kids and he looked so happy I guess I didn't want to rune what he had to satisfy myself."

There really wasn't any pain in her eyes as she talked about her father but maybe a little sadness that passed quickly.

"And...now I'm back here. There is no place like home thats for sure. I missed it here and you guys. How that trouble making brother of yours?"

Watching Justin closely as he shows her how to cast Beth trys to remember everything so she didn't look to silly when trying to do it for the first time. It didn't look to hard but maybe she would have a hard time with the placement of her fingers.

Finally as the pole is offered to her Beth takes it trying to best to hold it like Justin had. Not expecting him to help her or put his arms around her Beth gives a jump but recovers quickly trying not to make Justin feel bad.

"Like this?"

Letting him place her hands where they needed to be Beth didn't try to fight though it felt strange having someone close to her, and feeling his hands on hers. They were soft, but rough from work at the same time and they felt warm.

Once everything was ready Beth draws the pole back and than shoots it forward. Not making it very far though she gives a side long glance to Justin before starting to reel it in.

"Of course it wouldn't go that far for me."

Returning Eli's kiss Scarlet gives a nod to him before getting off the bike running her hand over Eli's back. He was wearing his jacket but she new he's still feel it.

"Sounds good to me."

Sliding off the car with Alec Ryan gives him a grin at the sigh he was trying to play up. She new he'd be fine. Taking hold of his shirt though Ryan pulls Alec twords her and places a deep kiss on his lips for a moment.

"I may leave in a cloud of dust, but I'll always return to you in the same manor."

Taking a few steps back and shaking her head she gives a small wave before getting into her car and giving it a small rev.

Cast

"I'm sorry. That's rough." Pete really was sorry to hear about Nikki's mom - he remembered her as being very sweet and he could relate to losing a parent. It wasn't fun. It was a little surprising to him that Nikki was going to stay in town though. He wondered for how long and if she'd leave after her mom passed, but he didn't ask.

Ordering a beef sandwich, he turns back to their conversation, grinning at Nikki's last comment. He runs a hand over his smooth head. "Early receding hairline plus I no longer need a comb."

Pausing a moment, he nods. "Yeah... I took up the law enforcement thing a while back. Worked underground for a while until we were official and now we're the Elite. I, um..."

His eyes drift down as his fingers still play with his water glass. He didn't really know how to talk about this and even though he and Nikki had been close, it was a little awkward now. "I... wanted to do some good after... well, after the cops weren't doing their job when Mom was killed."

Pete's knee bounces under the table and he clears his throat, moving on very quickly, even though he knew that it was news to Nikki about his mom. "Anyway, life's been good." He shrugs, finally looking back up at her. Actually, it hadn't been so great aside from the Elite and he knew his eyes would betray him, but he spoke the lie anyway. "I don't get to go out and do as much as I want anymore, but once in a while I hit the lake with the jetski and remember all the good times we had out there." He didn't mention Lewis... not yet. Instead, he shifts the spotlight back to Nikki.

"What about you?"


Seeing that Beth was willing to take a shot at fishing, Justin gains back his broad grin. "Good. Come right over here..." He motions her to a place a little closer to the water but not as close as he would go since he knew she was still leery.

"Okay, this is the reel here, see?" Justin shows her the rod and reel. "This one's an open face, so it's a little tricky, but all you gotta do is flip the bale, hold the line with your finger like so, then take the rod back..." He demonstrates the first cast. "Send it out there and let go of the line... and watch 'er fly."

The line shoots in a gentle arc, sending the lure into the water with a quiet plunk. Justin looks at Beth, grinning. "Then all you do is reel and the bale snaps back on its own."

Reeling in the line again, Justin moves closer. "Now it's your turn."

Trying to get her hands situated in the right places was a bit awkward as Justin tried to make sure she was holding the rod correctly and finally he gives up his side position. Moving around behind her, he puts his arms around either side of her, being sure to watch her carefully to see if he was invading her space too much. If he was, he would back off. "Left hand goes here..." His hand moves hers where it should be. "Right hand on the reel.... no... there you go..." His fingers lie on top of hers, gently keeping everything in place while letting her do it herself at the same time. "Now you can cast."


Receiving Ryan's elbow, Alec smirks at her, but can't help his grin. He'd known that was coming.

Eli nods to Scarlet while he rolls his eyes. "That's him alright." He leans back a little, turning his head back over his shoulder to give Scarlet a kiss. "What say we get off this thing and take a look around? Race will start soon and we can meet back up here."

Alec looks to Ryan and sighs a dramatic sigh. "I guess this is where I watch you disappear in a cloud of dust again." He slides off the hood of the car. "Show 'em what you got."

Has to be the one

Getting to the little pond like they had before Beth wonders playing with the dogs for a moment but staying away from the water a little bit. She'd been here before but still she was leary of the water since she didn't know how to swim.

Coming back to the spot she had sat at before Beth doesn't offer to fish with Justin but just watches him. Finally as he turns though and offers her to try Beth stands again and slowly, carefully wonders over.

"I'm not sure what to do, but I'll try anyways I guess."

Hearing her brothers bike Ryan looks up and giving a grin still leaning into Alec. Her brother was harmless and new she wasn't stupid so for her his presence didn't change anything for her.

"Hey bro, happy you guys could make it."

Keeping her arms around Eli even after the stops Scarlet finally lets go of her hold. Dinner had been good, and coming to the races with Eli would be great as well. Taking her helmet off Scarlet lets her hair fall into place before running a hand through it. Looking to Alec and Ryan she gives a nod.

"Hey there guys."

Hearing Alec's comment Scarlet's smile grows a little more as she gives a shake of her head. Leaning into Eli again a little bit so he could hear her, her voice was laced with a little humor in the whole situation.

"He has to be the one you were telling me about."

Hearing Alec's comment herself Ryan gives a grin before elbowing him and giving him a look as she shakes her head and gives a grin of her own.

Looking across the table at Pete Nikki's smile never fades. It was great to be able to be sitting across from her friend again. Long time had passed, life had changed for them both she was sure.

"It sure has been a log time, to long. I guess that happens with growing up though."

Just watching Pete so many things run through Nikki's mind about the past. They had been so close, and enjoyed every waking moment together or pretty darn close. If she had been asked who her best friend was she wouldn't even have to think about it when saying Pete. It really had saddened her that they had lost contact over the year.

"Mmmm...I plan on staying. Mom took ill and she really needs someone to be with her now. She doesn't have much time left. I don't have the heart to put her in a nursing home. So I came back, and I'm going to stay with her. So that means we get to see more of each other again. That is when your not busy with your tiger."

Nikki gives another smile drawing silent for a moment as the waitress comes over. Ordering something to drink, and a light salad Nikki completed her own order, waiting to see if Pete was going to order anything and than starting there conversation again.

"So other than being part of the law now, witch by the way is totally not something I expected, and shaved head how's life been treating you?"

As on the wind

Looking up quickly as Nikki approaches, a smile forms on Pete's lips - one wider than earlier today. He was glad she'd shown up and wasn't offended about earlier.

Chuckling, he shakes his head. "Naw, we're good. I just had a tiger on a leash earlier and couldn't risk any mishaps. Sorry about that."

As she sits down across from him, his eyes follow her, just taking her in as anyone would who hadn't seen her in so long. "Wow, it's... it's good to see you." A thousand and one thoughts and memories pass through his mind... things he hadn't thought about in years. Nikki, his brother... the three of them hanging out... high-school when it wasn't cool to hang out with others not of your same age bracket but they did it anyway... graduation... late-night fun times at the lake... college when they saw less of each other but remained close. Pete and Nikki had never dated, though they'd been teased enough. They'd simply been good friends. Then it had all drifted away, as on the wind, thought to never be reborn again. In Pete's life, things had taken a turn for the bad until he'd found his way again, leading him to law enforcement. And Nikki? What had her life been like?

Pete's hands fidget with his glass of water and he laughs again. "You look great... and I have no idea what to say." He bites his lip a little, feeling awkward and relaxed at the same time. "It's been what... ten years or so?" So much life had happened to him since then... had it for her, too? Did she know about his mom or what had happened to his brother? He didn't know. "Are you just passing through or...?"


"Hmmm..." Alec pretends to think for a moment, then shakes his head. "I don't think you've ever told me that before."

Leaning closer, he gives Ryan another kiss, letting it linger on her lips as his fingers toy with her hair. Drawing back, the corner of his mouth quirks. "Sounds pretty good though."

He's just about ready to return for another kiss when a loud motorcycle engine revs as it pulls up near the car. Looking quickly, Alec tenses then relaxes, seeing it's just Eli and Scarlet.

Eli gives a wave and lifts the visor on his helmet. Though one couldn't see his lips, his raised cheeks prove he's smiling. "Looks like we got here just in time," he teases. Cutting the motor, he sits back with his feet on the ground and takes off his helmet where a black bandanna was keeping his hair in place. "Alec, you met Scarlet?"

Alec cocks his head as he eyes the woman. "Don't think so. I'm pretty sure I woulda remembered if I had."


Back on the road again, this time it's off to the fishing hole. Justin felt better after his quick shower and fishing was relaxing to him anyway, so this was good. It had been a long last few hours, but this was his reward.

Eventually they find their way back to the pond, through the grass and bramble and back into the clearing beside the water. Thought it was hot, the trees provided much shade and since the grass was kept mowed near the water, the insects weren't bad either.

Justin sets down all his tackle and scans the area, trying to decide where the best spot would be, and he chooses one pretty near, doing as he had before with one line and bobber and the other pole to cast and reel. Light conversation was interspersed between quiet moments, creating a relaxing and safe atmosphere.

The dogs ran around, barked and chased each other, having a great time and panting like crazy as they played. Justin didn't bother telling them to be quiet - to him, fishing was more than catching fish anyway and he enjoyed seeing the dogs have fun.

Once his line with the bobber is set, he picks up his other pole, but pauses, looking over to Beth. He wasn't sure if she just wanted to sit on a rock, play with the dogs or if she did want to try fishing. He holds up the pole. "Wanna try?"

Blown Cover!

Giving a nod and following Justin outside once again Beth goes to her car. She new Justin drove decent so she would have no problem following but she had his cell number just in case.

"I'm ready when you are."

Getting into the car and pulling out of the parking lot Beth follows close. Maybe today she would try and fish herself though she didn't know how much she would like it. At least she'd be trying something new and if it ended up she hating it she new she would have fun with the dogs.

Pulling up to the dinner Nikki pulls down the visor for a moment and flicks some of her hair into place that had been blow by the open window. Pushing it back up and rolling her eyes at herself Nikki finally gets out of the car. Dressed a little differently now than before she had, had time to get ready before coming to meet someone. A pretty button up red shirt with the first two buttons undone, so it was not to low but not choking her either, along with a pare of nice jeans, and dresser sandles.

Walking into the dinner she wondered if Pete would be here again or not. He's been busy early and though she wanted to believe he wasn't just brushing her off, she couldn't help but have the feeling in the back of her head maybe he was.

Letting her eyes scan the dinner like they had before a smile spreads on Nikki's face when she see Pete, He had come after all. Walking over to the table and pushing her one side of hair behind her ear her smile grows even more just from the excitement of seeing her friend again.

"I'm in the clear now to talk to you right? I don't wanna blow your cover."

Her bright green eyes twinkle and its easy to see she wasn't upset about earlier and now it was out of pure fun she teased him. She was happy he was here, and happy to see him again it had been a long time.

Sitting in her normal spot with her car Ryan sat on the hood. It was still a little bit early but races always got there a head of time to show off there cars. It was just something they did. Tonight Ryan would be up against some new competition and she was excited to have a challenge. It was going to be fun, and having Alec here to watch would be even better.

Looking around for a moment she trys to see her brother or anyone else she new to wave them over. Having her friends close was always a lot of fun and she enjoyed letting them in on her spot light to. They were infact and important part to her life too.

Leaning into Alec a little Ryan places her hand on his leg before turning her head a little and placing a kiss on his lips. She'd given him a ride tonight and enjoyed having him here early with her.

"Mmmm...did I ever tell you how lucky I am to have a hot car, and an even hotter boyfriend?"

7:00

Standing by the sink, Justin cocks his head a little, not missing the smile that briefly passed over Beth's lips. Maybe they were making progress... little by little. Maybe one day he'd see that thick shell gone.

"Nah, don't worry too much about the water. You've been there once already, so this should be old hat to you." He gives her a wink before finishing off his drink and setting the glass in the sink.

"Alright. Gimme five minutes and I'll be ready to go." Heading down the hall, he grabs a different pair of jeans and t-shirt from his room before closing the door behind himself in the bathroom. True to his word, it's only five minutes and he's finished rinsing off his sweat and throwing some old but clean clothes on.

Grabbing his backpack, he takes a couple bottles of water from the fridge along with a couple granola bars too, just in case anyone got hungry. "Okay, I'm ready."

He motions to Beth, offering her a warm smile to let her know he was still here and still proud of her for being willing to do this today. "Let's get out of here."


Pete grins a little, glad to know that at least Trey was enjoying his food. He'd have to remember this as a place they could come again sometime.

It's too soon though that the meal is over and the reality sets in that they need to return to TJY. Pete remains casual with Trey, not being pushy or making him do anything to stay within sight. Back in the convertible again, it's another fast ride back to base until Pete walks Trey back inside. He does mention the next morning though, implying they might slip out again.


The day grows long, and the hours seem to drag by. Finally though, seven o'clock rolls around and Pete finds himself outside the little diner once again. He hadn't gotten any phone calls, so he was assuming Nikki would come, though he had his doubts. He'd been pretty cold to her earlier - she might have gotten the impression he didn't want to see her, and he hadn't even gotten her number in case she didn't show.

Boots, blue jeans and a black tee left untucked, Pete tucks his sunglasses into his collar before sliding into a booth to wait. He turns down any food from the waitress for now - he'd wait and see what happened.


Leo looks up at the clock as he slouches on the couch. He'd made it through the day alright, but was still feeling miserable. Even though physically he was okay now, he knew it had been a stupid thing to do - going and getting drunk. But he had yet to find another way to get rid of this frustration inside of him.

He was getting over Ryan... right? But every time Cassy moved closer, he pulled away as if he still was attached to someone else. Maybe just wasn't ready. And this long day hadn't helped things much as he'd had way too much time to think and over-analyze.

Leaning his head back, he sighs. He'd never turned to drinking before - why he had this time, he wasn't even sure. Desperation perhaps. But he wasn't intending to do it again. The consequences weren't worth it.

He turns and looks at his nearby phone. He hadn't called Cassy yesterday... or today. Had she really expected him to? Had she really wanted to do something? The answer was probably yes on both counts. So why didn't he just pick up the stupid phone and call? He felt like a jerk not doing it.

He looks down at his hands. It was getting dark. The races would be starting soon. He needed to thank Eli for bringing him home the other night anyway. He didn't need to hang out with the McKade's or Alec if he showed up too - he could go see other people too, right? At least it would give him something to do other that sitting around here and staring at the walls... right?

Making up his mind, he stands and goes for his keys. Maybe he wouldn't stay long, but he just needed to get out and that was as good a place as any right now.

Chip

Taking his head a little and giving a chuckle Trey take his sandwich and looks at it for a moment before taking the mayo on the table and adding more. Taking a bit and chewing Trey just savers the taste. He loved the food in Mexico but he always loved the cheese steak from the US. His friend use to bring them to him all the time after there late night trips to the border as his payment.

"This tastes like heaven!"

Reaching for his glass of water and taking a sip to wash down some of his meal. Leaning back again just taking it slow on his meal Trey was quiet just enjoying it all. After this he'd be back to the dungeon and stuck in a crappy room. Might as well enjoy being out while he can.

Talking with Justin a little more while he was up top and playing with the dogs Beth was having a nice time. Being outside was nice, and breathing the fresh air was nice too. Finally as Justin comes down the latter Beth's eyes lock with his for a moment. It was a mistake, but for that moment she takes in his eyes, and see a light in them, and a strange feeling forms in her stomach.

Finally breaking her gaze from his Beth wraps at arm around herself before following Justin into the house. Taking him in again for a moment as he stood at the sink the sun reflects off of him and gives him a sorta glow that catchs her eye. Not even realizing it Beth gives a small genuien smile as that feeling in her stomach grew just a little.

"Yeah, I'm as ready as I'll ever be. Still gotta little worry about the water though."

Turning the smile was gone, but still it had been there as another part of the wall had been chipped away so something new could flourish.

Next time

Pete's eyes drift over to Nikki at Trey mentions her. On the inside, he bristles slightly, though his face doesn't show it. Instead, he grins and swings his gaze back to his table partner. "You think I'd wanna risk you taking a chunk outta a girl who's showed interest in me?" His eyes spark with humor. "I think you're more the fiery redhead type. You need a girl who likes those rules you like to make yourself."

"Here we go, gentlemen. Enjoy your meal." The waitress sets the plates down in front of both of them. "If you need anything else, let me know."

Pete watches her walk away and calls after her, but not loudly enough for her to hear. "My friend here could use a date..." When she doesn't turn around, he shrugs and picks up his fork. "Better luck next time."

Digging into his food, silence reigns for a while, other than the surrounding sounds of the restaurant. Every once in a while, Pete steals a glance in Nikki's direction, but he does so discretely, not drawing any attention to her or him and Trey.


Justin climbs the ladder, making it to the top but he doesn't venture onto the roof yet. "Mmm.... gutters," he muses in response to Beth.

Fishing around inside the gutter for a moment, out comes a handful of leaves, twigs and who knows what else. "Watch your head," he calls. Down it goes a ways away from Beth in a dirty heap, only to be joined by another handful.

"Few weeks ago I noticed this thing was clogged up and all the rain was just coming down over the edge in a nice curtain in front of the porch instead of draining. Just haven't gotten around to cleaning these out yet but it's definitely time."

After just a few minutes, he crawls up onto the roof, releasing Beth of her duty for now. It was hotter than he thought it would be and after a while, he's soaked with sweat. He works his way around the roof though, not quitting before the job is done. He tries to carry on a light conversation the best he can with Beth, and in between he just lets her play with the dogs who were enjoying the extra attention.

Finally, the gutters are all clear and Justin is exhausted and parched. Having Beth hold the ladder again, he slowly climbs down. With his feet on the ground again, he manages a grin as he wipes the sweat from his brow. He knew he was filthy and stinky and a bit of color shows in his face... or was it from the sun?

"Well... that's that. I'm not gonna rake all that up now though, it can wait. Right now, I need some water before I keel over."

Back inside and to the kitchen Justin fills a glass with water but forces himself not to drink too quickly. Leaning back against the kitchen counter, he takes a deep breath, trying to gain a second wind. "Ready to fish?"

Bite

Trey leaned back in the booth once again listening to Pete he makes a grunt sound in his throat that resembled almost a laugh. Not that Pete's story was funny but for a moment he contemplated the idea himself. But finding it completely crazy he pushed it away.

"Thats good it worked out for you. Me...I'll stick with making my own rules, girls dig that to ya know."

Giving a shake of his head Trey lets his eyes drift over to where Nikki was sitting watching her over his shoulder for a moment. Leaning back from the table only a moment when the food came before looking to Pete again.

"You could of asked her to have lunch with us. I promise I wouldn't have bit, to hard anyways."

Following Justin outside Beth listened to him while petting the two dogs on the head as they followed. She thought it was quite funny to see them so interested in her but at the same time it was nice because she liked them and there cold wet noses felt good on her hands.

"I think...for now I'll keep my feet on the ground and help hold the ladder."

She gave a small smile to Justin. She was willing to try new things, and open up a little bit at a time but taking her feet off the safety of the ground she was not ready for.

Grabbing the ladder Beth looks up watching him climb it while she held on. Continuing to watch she leans into the ladder a little bit and calls up to him.

"What do u got to do up there anyways."

Ain't so bad

Pete wasn't too surprised by Trey's response. He knew enough about this whole thing that he probably hadn't needed to ask, but he was glad to see Trey's side of things anyway.

He chuckles at Trey's own question. "Naw... I hated the law there for a while. Never got myself thrown in jail but I came pretty close a few times. I guess I finally realized that if I really wanted to change anything, retaliation wasn't the answer. You familiar with the phrase, "If you can't beat 'em, join 'em"? Well... that's me I guess. Had to take orders and grit my teeth for a while but... once I got on Reese's good side, I got more breathing room."

Leaning back in his seat, he spreads out his arms. "And hey... I get paid for hanging out and having breakfast. Girls... food... this life ain't so bad."


Justin laughs at Beth's comment about dealing with drunks. "Nah, not too often. Once in a while." He tosses her a wink.

Standing up, he stretches then nods. "Why sure. You want to help, that would be great. If not, you can play with the dogs - totally up to you. Might be nice to have someone hold the ladder though."

He starts to walk from the office, talking over his shoulder. "Last year I cleaned them out, wind came up and I went flying."

Making it to the front door, he motions her to follow, knowing she was still a bit timid. "Come on."

Once outside, he heads to the old garage where he retrieves a ladder. It was a pretty hot day - not one he really cared to spend on the roof, but he'd been putting this off for ages. And the reward would be fishing, so it kept him motivated.

Back to the house, he sets up the ladder, making sure it's steady. In the meantime, Danitza and Zora are quite curious about their visitor, following Beth around and sniffing at her heels and her hands, liking the attention she gave them.

Getting the ladder situated, Justin starts up. "Alright, if you wanna grab hold while I get to the top, that would be great. 'Course, if you want to come up on the roof too, you're more than welcome, but it's pretty hot up here."

Always

Raising an eyebrow at Pete again Trey gives a little shake of his head. Maybe he was right about the badge, maybe he was just full of himself too, but he did a agree about someone wearing there pants half down there butt.

"I always hate seeing how scummy some people can dress. I never did understand that and why a woman would go gaga over that."

Taking a sip of his own drink Trey looks back to Pete as he asks what his deal is. Raising an eyebrow at the nickname it seemed he'd been giving he shakes his head.

"T huh...I think I might like it."

Leaning back in the booth again and sliding the napkin from under his silverware setting it on the table and picking at it for a moment Trey thinks about his answer before looking up at Pete again and crossing his arms over his chest. Just thinking about it made him upset all over again.

"I'm here because my parents though it would be safer to ship me off to a place where drug lords and mobsters can get to me. As soon as everything it cooled down though I am going back to my life in Mexico where I like it. "

Thinking again for a moment Trey looks out the window just watching the people walk around outside. He'd been a prisoner for so long and he didn't even know it, still even now. But now he was at TJY unable to leave, or go about doing as he wanted so he was trapped. A caged lion just wanting to be set free.

"I didn't choose to come here I was forced, and if I expect my parents to send me money and the stuff I need like they said they would I got to play along. I highly doubt being locked inside a building to eat, sleep and hardly breath all day was in there idea though."

Rolling his eyes he sits up again and leans on the table. Pete was different he seemed, more to be the one who would bend the rules and maybe that would work out in Trey's favor.

"So whats up with you? Where you always one of the guys who took order from Reese?"

Just moving from room to room in Justin's house Beth looked at pictures and other things he had hanging on his wall. He had a good taste in decorating his house. Going through the whole house Beth finds herself back at Justin's office looking around a little more while he finished up on the phone.

Once he was done though Beth stops her looking around and stand her arms crossed in front of her. Giving a small smile she new he had work to do.

"Your life's not so bad. Least you don't have to deal with drunks. Well...I don't...think you do anyways."

Taking a few more steps twords his desk Beth thinks for a moment about his comment with cleaning the gutters. She'd looks at almost everything in his house already paying close mind to the pictures he had and studying the faces well. Maybe outside outside was be nice.

"Can...I help you?"

Gutters

Pete grins back at Trey with a sly look, keeping himself from glancing back to Nikki even though he wanted to. "See this?" He holds up his badge and thumps it. "Chick magnet, Dog. Girls dig the whole macho protector thing. If I'da come in here with pants halfway down my butt and start shooting off arrogant crap from the top of my head, they'd never give me a look again." He squints one eye knowingly. "But a guy like me whose got clean-cut suave? Now that gets phone numbers."

His grin turns into a wide smile as he takes a sip of his water. "Ait, so what's your game, T? You on the run or just hanging out here til a storm blows over?"


Justin grins and nods as he chews his salad. "Yeah, we'd try to hit targets and everything. You get the watermelons with the big black seeds, they're just begging to become slimy projectiles."

Once lunch was over, Justin invites Beth to explore the house or stay in the living room or come with him to his office, though it was a bit cluttered. For the next hour, he had calls to make...

"...yeah, hi, Mrs. Slack, did you get that new cord in the mail? Great. You couldn't get it plugged in? Oh... no, that needs to go in the back of your tower, ma'am..."

"...just hold down the function key and... no, you just closed the window instead of quitting the application..."

"...alright, Greg, you got a Mac or PC?"

"...right, okay, now... what was that? Well, now you'll have to reboot."

"...no, ma'am, that's for your internet."

"...I'm sorry, but I have nothing to do with your local provider, you'll have to call them. No, I can't call them for you, you will have to call them and explain the bill to them yourself."

"...make your window smaller, sir. No, just click on the corner of.... no, the screen... the window... what do you see in front of you?"

...Groaning, Justin leans back in his chair and swivels around, putting his back to his computer. Another day of wondering why on earth he'd advertised for tech support. Oh yeah - so he could pay his bills.

Yawning, he glances to Beth who was looking around the office at the pictures on the wall, knick knacks on the shelves and trying not to trip over the filing boxes on the floor. "Welcome to my life." He grins. "It gets better. Now I get to go clean gutters."


Alec's mouth twitches, wanting to smile. "We never even had this conversation." He waves a hand, more than willing to leave Dalton's name out of it, should anything happen. And besides, he wasn't planning on anything but going to the races then coming back.

Working a few more moments, he then gives Dalton another glance. The big man was alright.

Intresting

Seeing that Pete remembered her Nikki's face lite up a little more as the nervous feeling passed and now it was more of an excited one. She was hoping her friends would still remember her and though she had changed in ten years she still looked almost the same minus the braces and no glasses.

Taking Phil's number for a moment Nikkie felt a little bad but than glancing down at his badge and seeing it she was a bit surprised to know Pete was in with law now but understood as well he must be on a job.

Still holding her smile and giving a nod she rocks on her heels for a moment before slipping the number into her purse and thinking for a moment. This afternoon she did have some to do but tonight she might be free.

"Seven...I think I can handle that."

Letting her hand bush Pete's for a moment she brings them back to her side one holding her purse and the other one at her side.

"I'll see you tonight again. It was great seeing you even if for only a few moments. Take care Pete."

Turning and heading the other way Nikki goes to one of the other tables and sits down to eat crossing her legs under the table and than pulling out a book to start to read.

Entering the restront again Trey tucks some money into his pocket before walking forward more. Starting to the table once again he catches sight of the woman who was walking away from Pete.

Raising an eyebrow and sliding back into the booth Trey looks over to where she was sitting and than back to Pete.

"You have you own fan club? Who was that smoking blond?"

Trey can't help but look to the table again and than back to Pete. She was really pretty and he couldn't believe how many girls Pete got second looks from.

Looking down at the water and hearing that Justin wasn't just going to leave her high and dry it made Beth feel a little more warmth. It felt good not being pushed aside and having someone who really wanted to spend time with her.

"Spitting seeds? I think...that sounds interesting."

Reaching over and taking another peace of watermelon Beth pops it into her mouth and chews on it. Last time she had watermelon it was a long time ago and she had forgotten the tast on how sweet it was.

Giving Alec a sidelong glance at his question Dalton looks back for his computer for a moment. Not saying anything right away to Alec again as the quiet is filled with clicking of computer keys. Letting out a sigh his mind works. Alec wanted to leave, he'd more than likely want to go see his girl and he always did come back. Maybe just this once he could do this for once.

"I'm going to be here late tonight trying to figure this stuff out so I think I can do that for you, but don't make me reget it or I'll come after you myself."

Dalton looks to Alec for a moment his mouth curling a little into a grin that his last part was joking, but if it came down to it he would.

On Duty

"Yeah." Pete waves off Trey, letting him go outside. He turns to his glass of water, but one eye stays on a picture on the wall that had just enough reflection for him to see Trey's figure outside the front door. He remains relaxed though, seemingly and perhaps strangely, confident that the younger man would return on his own.

Lost in his own thoughts about his current task, the approaching woman startles him. Looking up quickly, his eyebrows rise slightly as he takes in the woman's features. Nikki... Nikki... he racks his brain.

"I..." He squints a little, trying to figure out if he really knew her or not. Nikkie Keller... the name did ring a bell. And she'd called him Peter. No one had called him that in a long time. Then it dawns on him. His eyes widen in total surprise and almost shock at seeing her. "Nikki Keller... of course."

Still shocked, he tries to clear the cobwebs from old memories. Yes, it had been a long time. He was impressed she'd recognized him at all. Last time she'd probably seen him, he'd been quite a bit huskier with a head of hair, let alone he'd been much younger. "Wow." A grin slowly comes to his lips. But just as quickly, it fades. Right now was not a good time to socialize. He was right in the middle of keeping steady a stick of dynamite and one wrong move could blow the whole thing. His eyes flash back to the picture on the wall to make sure he could still see Trey's reflection.

Thinking quickly, Pete grabs a napkin and fishes a pen out of his pocket to scribble down his cell phone number. Before he hands it to Nikki though, his eyes automatically drift over her left hand. Giving his number to a married woman would not be such a great idea, but he finds her ring finger empty. "Here." His eyes lock with hers. "If you can't meet me back here at seven tonight, call me."

Leaning back a little, he reaches to his belt where he shows his Elite badge as a warning he was on duty. He didn't want to brush her off or make her feel badly but the timing just wasn't so great right now. More than likely, this would come as a surprise to her - ten years ago, Pete was struggling to make it in college and was as far away from law enforcement as anyone. Nikki probably didn't even know about his mother who had passed at least a year after Nikki had moved away.

Pete's eyes linger on hers for a moment, as if apologizing and asking her not to feel slighted by this short greeting. He really did want to see her - catching up with old friends was always fun and he'd had some really good times hanging out with her and his brother. He didn't know if she was back in town just visiting or even if she had time to meet him at another time, but it was all he could offer right now. And if not, she had his number so hopefully he'd catch up to her again at some point.


Justin chuckles and shakes his head. "Yeah, that was her. If Ma finds out she called, she'll be all over it."

Looking up quickly at Beth's next comment, he gives her a look that wasn't irritated, but it was meant as a slight chide. "Do you really think I'm the type to dump you or go back on my word about fishing? It's first come first serve around here. You were first and I said we were going, so that's that. Rebecca can wait and if she can't then she isn't worth seeing."

Nodding with finalization, he starts in on his salad. Seeing Beth liked the watermelon, he grins. "My brother and I used to have seed spitting contests."


Alec moves back out of Dalton's way for a few moments, his eyebrows raised a bit. It was weird that he had just really helped and hearing that if it hadn't been for him, they wouldn't have latched on to this. He'd... actually helped with something? Really? More than just boring filing work?

He shrugs lamely. "You're...welcome." Looking back to the computer screen, he just sits for a moment before putting his hands back on the keyboard. "Yeah I don't have anything better to do... until tonight." He gives Dalton a sidelong glance, wondering if he could trust the big man. "You don't think you could shut down the locks for, oh, about thirty seconds tonight, do you?" He knew Reese could track him if he used a security card to sneak out again, and he was planning on returning before daybreak, but anything to avoid more hassles would be worth it.

Friendly faces

Looking up at the waitress as she comes to the table and than turning his head just slightly to Pete a smirk cross Trey's face once more. He could read's Pete's mind and thought it was quiet humerus. This TJY agent as Reese liked to call them seemed much different from the other ones.

A smart comment lay on the tip of Trey's tong and he so badly wanted to ask the waitress if he could order her but something makes him refrain from the comment. Giving the waitress his order Trey waits for her to leave before turning to Pete again.

"That waitress was eye balling you man. She had the looks but... I don't know if she had the personalty for you or not. She defiantly didn't pass up giving you a once over yourself though."

Straightening in his seat a little and looking around the dinning area once more Trey's eyes moves the room just taking everything in and his surroundings. Coming back to Pete though he is quite surprised when he was now told he could go smoke alone. Just studying his face for a moment Trey wonders if Pete was stupid, or very trust worthy not to think Trey would run.

"Alright, I'll be back than."

Getting up from the booth Trey makes his way back how they came stepping outside passing an attractive blond on the way. Stepping out onto the sidewalks and moving around to the far corner of the building he pulls out his pack of smokes and his lighter. For the moment nicotine was his out.

Entering the dinner a medium high woman enters. Pushing one side of her short blond hair behind her ear she lets her bright green eyes scan the dinner almost as if looking for someone. Letting her eyes rest on Pete her face lights up a little more a smile spreading across her lips. It was just her luck and surprise that he really was here today.

Walking over to Pete's table the woman only hoped it was really who she had been looking for. She was ninety percent sure it was him because his looked hadn't change that much but it had been ten years so some stuff did seem different.

"Peter Kriston? It's Nikki, Nikki Keller....its been a while. How are you?"

Nikkie waited for his reply waiting to see if it was Pete and if he even remembered her. Her heart pounded in her chest as she waiting hoping she didn't look to foolish.

Turning from the photo's on the wall and taking the water Beth gives a small smile and her thanks as she takes a small sit. Looking around the kitchen some more and watching as Justin starts to cut the watermelon she gives a little jump to the phone but recovers when knowing what it was.

As Justin goes for it Beth does her best to mind her own business till finally she wonders to one of the stools by the counter and pulls it out to site on. Sitting her glass down she raises a hand in a no thanks manor to the watermelon. She really wasn't all the hungry at the moment.

Just continuing to mind her own business she gives Justin a smile once he was off the phone other than feeling slightly bad that she was in the middle of keeping him from being with his....friend?

"It's ok. Was...that the girl your mom is trying to set you up with? You could of went with her...and we could fish another time. I wouldn't have minded to much."

Beth didn't want to stand in Justin's way and if he would have more fun with someone else than by all means she would want him to go with her. She was a stick in the mud who was trying new things and she new it. Maybe if she broke out on her own first than she could be more fun to hang out with.

Finally leaning over the counter just a little Beth takes a peace of the watermelon and pops it into her mouth before giving a small smile.

"Mmm...not bad."

Continuing to listen to Alec Dalton goes back to his own work on his computer though keeps his attachen on Alec as well as he works away on the other. He might as well continue to work a little bit on his own work and not put it aside completely right now.

Hearing thought that someone was hacking into there system through a back door though Dalton's head shoots up as she wheels his hand in one stride over to Alec again looking over her shoulder.

"What...how...."

Leaning over Alec's shoulder for a moment Dalton types a few things into the computer pulling up a few more screens only to come up empty handed. He was going to really have to dig more to be able to do anything.

"Who ever it was covered there tracks. I'm doing to have to do some real chipping work on this. Here....I'm going to link up the computers for a second and transfer that to here, so I can work from my own computer."

Opening his drawer and pulling out a cord Dalton hooks it to his computer and than to the computer Alec was at. Entering a few things into his computer he walks Alec through a simple steps on that one till the files, information, and all over stuff Alec had done to that computer was now replaced on his screen so he could work on it more.

"There we go now I can work on this from the comfort of my own desk. I need to tell Reese about this though. If you wanna keep working there you can."

Taking out his cell and dialing Reese's number Dalton got the voice mail like he new he would since he was out with Angelica at the moment but leaving a message in this case was no problem.

"Boss, we got a problem I need you to call me as soon as you can."

Hanging up the phone he looks over at Alec for a long moment before giving a nod.

"Thanks Alec, if it hadn't been for you we never would of known."

Pulling away a little and giving a smile to Ryder Thirteen was happy he'd let them work on his leg again. Not for her own personal gain but for Ryder. If he couldn't walk anymore she new how miserable he would be. Ryder didn't like to sit still and to be stuck not being able to walk it would kill him.

"Ok, as soon as they say your released we can get out of here, and start life again. Maybe...I'll even cook dinner for you if your nice to me."

Thirteen gives a little laugh as she leans her head on top of his for a moment and than gives him a strong hug.

Go ahead

Pete scans the menu and chuckles at Trey's comment about the women. "Yeah, there are some around here that aren't too bad looking."

Quirking an eyebrow at the question of returning outside. "Nope. No smoking in here, so-"

"Alright, are you two ready to order?"

Pete looks up at the perky waitress, giving her a once-over then glancing to Trey with a wry grin that he knew he would catch. "I think so. I want an omelet..."

It only takes a few moments to take both orders and the waitress is gone again. Pete thumbs to the door. "Go ahead and take your smoke. I'll hold the table."


"Water I got. Good well water too." Getting a glass and some ice from the freezer, Justin heads for the sink to fill up the glass with cool water. His eyes wander to Beth as she looks at the pictures and he lets her be.

"Alright, here we go." He sets the glass down on the counter. "I think I'm going to have some salad... ooh, looks like I got some watermelon left too. Better eat more of that before it goes bad."

Retrieving the half-melon from the fridge, he sets it on a cutting board and grabs a long knife from a drawer. Just ready to cut into it, the phone rings. Sighing, he goes ahead and cuts the watermelon, letting the answering machine pick up.

"Hey, Justin, it's me, Rebecca. Your mom gave me your number and I just thought I'd call to-"

Justin's head shoots up from the watermelon. Skirting into the living room, he grabs the cordless phone. "Rebecca... I'm here. What's up?" Wandering back into the kitchen, he cradles the phone between his chin and shoulder as he continues to cut up the watermelon. "Yeah, I'm good. You?"

Setting the watermelon on a large plate, he wipes off the counter and sets the plate on the table. Whispering, he speaks to Beth. "Help yourself." Walking back to the fridge, he keeps up his phone conversation. "Mm-hmm... yeah. No, that's okay. I just got back a few minutes ago." With both hands full, he kicks the fridge door shut and starts cutting up lettuce for a salad, then adds just a few chopped onions, part of a green pepper and some carrots, topped with a bit of shredded cheese. "Uh-huh... sounds great. Yeah, I'm probably heading back there this week sometime. Right..." He laughs. "She likes to tell everyone everything."

Putting the stuff away, he puts the large bowl of salad on the table, retrieving two smaller bowls in case Beth changed her mind, and he also brings out a couple different kinds of dressing. "This afternoon?" He pauses. "Naw, I got a friend here and we're going fishing in a bit. Thanks, though. Maybe another time. Yeah... okay. Alright, sure. Yep, got it. Thanks, Rebecca. Talk to you later."

Ending the call, he sets the phone on the kitchen counter and goes to the table, sitting down to get himself some salad, unsure if Beth wanted to sit too or not, but just leaving it open for her to decide. "Sorry about that."


Alec keeps working, but pauses to sift through the files again. "Yeah, that was a weird one. I woulda thought the Agency would have taken the guy in, not kill him on the spot. But the... a security risk is a security risk and they don't play around."

Finding the file, he nods. "Heard that name before but didn't make the connection. Don't think I ever met him - he was in some higher stuff, probably a clean-cut character on the outside. Not surprised if the Agency wants her dead now though if she's got info. That's a given."

Continuing his work, he takes a side venture, looking up a few things about the information Destiny had turned in. "Hey, did you know you got some outsider accessing Agency files about this?" He points to the screen. "Username is Gambler. I though everyone here had to go through the TJY database to get their information. Though whoever it was knew how to get in the backdoor - if I hadn't happened into this, it wouldn't have shown up anywhere else."


Ryder sighs deeply, reaching his one hand up to cradle Thirteen's head as she leaned it down on his. "Okay... they can do surgery again." If he were crippled up, he wouldn't be very much good to her anymore. "But I'm out of here the minute he says I'm released."

Good Stuff

Taking the ride with Pete it was a little more careless than Trey would of expected. Thought Trey didn't mind at all it how his friends drove all the time. Getting to the restrant and seeing the woman himself Trey sits up in the seat a little bit and watches her himself cocking his head. Turning his head just a little to look at Pete a grin pass his lips before he jumps out of the car.

Following Pete inside and sliding into the booth across from him Trey reaches for a menu and looks over it. He really wasn't in the mood for breakfast and he didn't know what was good here, but seeing the Philly cheese steak he new not many people could mess that one up.

Setting the menu down he looks across the table at Pete before around the little restrant. Taking in the faces, and the people noting more pretty women around the room and than looking back to Pete again.

"Well I have to hand one thing to this country they sure do have a lot of pretty lady's, not that Mexico doesn't but they are few and far between there."

Taking a sip of the drink that was brought Trey gives a little chuckle before leaning back in the booth and stretching.

"I suppose they don't let you smoke in here do they? And I don't suppose you really wanna walk outside with me again after we just sat down?"

Following Justin to his house it wasn't to hard. The roads were pretty straght forward with not many cars on them to get in the way. Justin was right though it was very pretty here with lots to look at.

Coming to the house and parking Beth gets out of her car leaving her doors unlocked knowing it would be alright all the way out here. Following Justin into the house Beth looks around. It wasn't a bad little house just needed a little work.

"It's not that dirty, I've seen worse."

Wondering with Justin into the kitchen Beth keeps her arms wrapped around herself. Her eyes wondering taking in everything and trying to keep her nerves calmed. It had been a long time since she was in someone else house.

"Mmm...I'll have some water please and thank you."

Wondering over to on of the walls in the kitchen that had pictures hanging on it Beth's eyes scan them. Most of them looked like family pictures and pictures of his dogs as puppys. The smiling faces and laughter looked back at her. Justin's family looked nice, and his mom looked like she would be a great person to get along with. Beth wondered what it would be like to still have a family.

Continuing to watch Alec Dalton was so diligent in taking in what he was doing so if he ever needed to get in again maybe he could use some of the tricks. He always did like learning new things and thats why he liked having Scott around. Not only was he his good friend but he challenged his mind with new things.

"No if the Agency's walls were weaker there would be no fun in cracking them open. However I have been working on making our own defenses stronger it just takes a little time."

Dalton can feel his own excitement rise inside him as the moment tick on though he really didn't let it show unless someone looked close enough to see it in his eyes. But working with Alec was different that what he thought it might be.

"I think part of the files you got there is the stuff that girl brought in the one who's parents were killed. Maybe thats why the Agency is after here to now. She sure did bring us a bunch of good stuff though thats for sure."

Thirteen gives a nod knowing he did hate it here, and seeing a tiny bit of worry in his eyes. It was easy to pick out today because it was something that not often was there.

"I know, I would too. Its no fun being cooped up when you don't want to be. But the Dr is just taking to help."

Keeping Ryder's hand in her own Thirteen leans down and gives him a kiss on the for head before just leaning her own against his.

Pretty lady

Grinning a little, Pete ambles behind Trey, using the remote on his keys to unlock the car. Once in and started, he puts the roof down and dons his sun glasses, making sure Trey's got his seatbelt on before peeling out of the parking lot.

Heading down through town, he barely makes several red lights - perhaps they were orange as he went through the intersections. Radio on and wind blowing, he doesn't force conversation but just drives, heading for the quick little diner that had good fast breakfasts.

Parking diagonally on the curb, Pete cuts the engine. A pretty lady walks past and he tilts his head, looking over his sunglasses for a moment as his eyes follow her. Turning to Trey, he gives him a crooked grin before hopping over the convertible door. "Come on. Food here's good."

Getting inside, he hangs his sunglasses from his shirt and slides into a small booth near the window. "Grab a menu... breakfast stuff is good but sometimes I'm ornery and have them make me a hamburger or something instead."


Turning quickly to Beth, Justin grins and shakes his head. "Nope - haven't been waiting at all. I was just gonna go back and sit down, so you're fine."

Letting the dogs hop up into the truck behind the front seats, he shuts the passenger door. "Well, if you're ready, I'll lead the way. It's about an hour's drive, but the scenery is nice."

It doesn't take long to get out on the road and Justin leads, keeping a constant watch in his mirrors to make sure he didn't lose Beth. It wasn't too hard though - there weren't too many turns and traffic was light. It doesn't seem like an hour has passed by the time he pulls off onto the back roads and eventually winds back to his lane. Driving slowly, he tries to avoid some of the ruts and muses that some of the overhanging trees should be trimmed sometime.

Finally getting to the little clearing with his house, he parks on the gravel patch that used to look more like a driveway, but was now overgrown with grass. Getting out, he motions to Beth that she could park anywhere. Then letting the dogs out, they bound into the yard, growling and playing with each other, obviously happy to be home and knowing they were off duty now.

Waiting for Beth, Justin smiles and doesn't rush - he knew this was new to her and didn't want to push too much. It was her timing that was important, not his.

Leading the way inside, he lets Beth in but leaves the door open for now, just letting the screen door stay shut. Danitza and Zora obediently remain outside. Tossing his keys aside, Justin remains very casual. "Welcome to the living room. Sorry for the mess." It really wasn't messy - just a bit cluttered but not dirty. Shoes were here and there, his sad looking plants drooped near the window and the couch cushions weren't quite straight, but overall it wasn't bad.

"Make yourself at home," he offers as he wanders to the kitchen. "Don't know about you, but I'm hungry." He opens the refrigerator and peers in, scanning what he had. "I got stuff for salads... subs... got stuff to drink... want anything?"


Alec immediately starts the new task, glad to just have something to do. Hearing Dalton's comment, he grins a little too. "What - hacking into systems? Yeah."

Staring at the screen, he types and looks for where he needed to go. "Pity for the good guys that they have weaker walls than the bad guys. You'd think it would be the other way around. Can't tell you how much stuff the Agency has gotten from TJY before when no one was looking."


Ryder sighs, but returns a squeeze to Thirteen's hand. "Yeah. I know." Though his tone was irritated, there was something else behind his eyes that he usually kept well-hidden: worry. This was about as bad as he'd had it and it wasn't fun. "I just hate this place."

Aussie and Stubborn

Trey looks at the door, than Pete, than the car, back to the door, Pete and the car again before looking back to Pete. It was easy to see he really was contemplating weather he should go or stay, but when it came down to it, he didn't want to stay here so getting out even for a little while sounded good. Not to mention going against what Reese was forcing him to do was even better.

"I say Why the heck not, any excuse to get outta here is a good one. Lets blow this place."

Not waiting for Pete to change his mind Trey had turned around already and was heading to his car. Sticking his pack of smokes in his pocket. Getting to the car and finding the door's lock he waits for Pete.

Finished with her visit for the day it was a little longer than planned but it felt good. Some people might feel sorry for Beth that she came to see her sister everyday but it was the only family she had left, and she loved Sarah so much that it didn't bother her. She never had to come, but she wanted too. Maybe it was something that in a way...did make her happy.

Exiting the building and see Justin go to his car Beth's head pumps a little. Had he been waiting long and now thought she wasn't going to come? Skipping a few steps Beth walks a little faster down the side walk to get to his truck as he is opening the door. Continuing to just stand on the side walk she waits and than speaks.

"Sorry it took me longer than expected. You wernt waiting long were you?"

Beth gives a small little smile as she folds her hands in front of her. It was nice talking to Justin, and she enjoyed it. Still the thought of going to his place made her a little worried but maybe it wouldn't be that bad.

Looking to Alec and than the computer that Scott always had used Dalton gives a little nod of his head. He didn't mind if anyone used it.

"Yeah sure thing. Once you get as far as you can, I can try to work my own magic on it."

Looking at Alec for a long moment and searching his face Dalton's lips turn up into a small smile for a moment before he turns and looks back to the computer screen again to watch what Alec was doing.

"Have to admit this is the best part of the job."

Standing quietly in the room Thirteen just watch's JT, and Ryder. It was like this most days when the Dr came to see him. Ryder wanted out and grew more and more irritated that he couldnt be let go. In a way Thirteen felt bad for him.

As JT leaves the room Thirteen gives a nod to him about talking with him. Walking back over to the bed she takes his hand in hers and gives it a little squeeze. She understood he wanted to get out, she'd felt like that for so many years for the longest time, but he was here for a good reason.

"Hey...If you let him fix your leg again he'd probably let you out sooner than if you don't."

Thirteen wanted to tell Ryder how important it was to get his leg fixed but was now really a good time? He was already irritated and maybe she wouldn't help matters at all! She hated seeing Ryder upset, and in pain, she wished she could do more for him even though she couldn't. Maybe if he refused to get his leg fixed again she could talk to Carson. They both were Aussie and stubborn maybe he could get through to him.

Second time

"Well..." Pete grins a little, cocking his head at Trey. "I might not be known as a rule bender, but since Reese is gone for the moment, why not? And you're right - we don't spend much money on the break room food."

He pulls his keys from his pocket and thumbs toward his car. "Don't know what you're used to for breakfasts down in Mexico, but what we got isn't bad. What do you say?"


Justin smiles, hearing that Beth kept the butterfly. Giving her a little wave, he nods. "See you in a while."

He sits for a bit longer until he finally gets up and wanders to the other building where he needed to find Scott.

The day's session goes well and without incident. Though Scott is down, he's willing to play the matching game. There wasn't much improvement as far as deterring his brain's automatic mechanisms, but even the slightest improvement was good. By the time he and Justin are finished, it's close to noon.

Justin wanders back down the sidewalk, taking his time. The dogs amble behind him, sniffing at this and that, but knowing better than to tug on their leashes. Justin glances around and passes by the bench for now - he would go put his backpack in his truck and if he still didn't see Beth, he would come back to the bench.


Alec quirks an eyebrow. It wasn't long ago that he could have puked at the idea of trying to get on Reese's good side. But at the moment, it didn't seem such a bad idea.

"Yeah, I think I can get in far enough for you to use these. Might take a little while since I have to remember as I go but..." He shrugs and gestures to the monitor in front of him. "Can I use this computer?"


"So what are you saying?"

"I'm saying I have to go in again." JT folds his arms, his facial expression grim. "I'll schedule it for today."

Ryder's eyes narrow. "If you didn't do a good enough job the first time, who says you will a second time? Or do you like being a butcher?"

"Look." JT's tone grows firm. "I did all I could the first time, but the tests show that your muscles are not healing properly. Now you can refuse a second surgery, but if you do, more than likely you'll wind up a cripple the rest of your life. Is that what you want?"

Ryder glares at the bedsheets. He'd wanted to get out of here today, not be told more work needed to be done on his leg. "I knew there was a reason I hated hospitals," he grumbles.

"If that crocodile had decided to tear, and it's amazing she didn't, you wouldn't have a calf left. Be glad I'm trying to get you back on your feet." JT turns to head from the room but stops and glances to Thirteen, of whom he'd seen here a lot the last few days. "Talk to him," he urges more quietly. "I can't help him against his will."