Haunted

Happy to have a bit of a distraction, Quinn shakes his head. "Just... passing through." He motions with his hand. "I never stay anywhere for too long. Gets too boring."

Though this stopover had certainly been anything but boring thus far. Finally taking the cherry from his coke, he plucks it with his teeth and chews while he fiddles with the stem. "Probably stick around here a few days though... unfinished business I guess you could say." In reality, he'd told Jess he'd be here a couple of days, so if there was any slim chance Axel would actually call, he'd still be here like he'd said. Once the time was up though, he'd be out of here.

Quinn's attention is suddenly diverted to the stage and he can't help but cringe at the male singer who apparently was trying to sound like Elvis. "Oh my." Quinn grimaces, trying not to be too critical, but this time it was obvious the dude shouldn't quit his day job. "Even I could do better than that, poor guy."

He shakes his head and takes another sip of his drink. "Yep... pop is still good though."


Settled in the couch in the quiet, Axel's eyes fall shut for a while, but then open again as Jess speaks once more. He sighs and lets his fingers intertwine with hers, back again, over her palm, then intertwine again, back and forth as he let his mind process.

"My brother and I were always close growing up." His voice is quiet... strained. He never talked about his family. There was never a reason to. "I guess I looked up to him in a way, too. Even in school we were just one grade apart so we still did a lot together. We were inseparable."

Falling silent again, one might think he was going to say no more, but he finally speaks again. "The dogtags... those were just kinda our thing... kinda like a promise to always be there for each other. Kinda silly once you think about it, but at the time it seemed cool." He pauses and almost chuckles. "Quinn always thought it was funny when someone would think they were real dogtags."

Axel's hand retreats to run up Jess's arm and back down again. "About the time I was a senior in high-school, Quinn had already graduated, so we started having different friends. I knew some of the ones I chose weren't the greatest, but I figured I'd stay out of trouble. Quinn didn't approve and he warned me. We had a few arguments and weren't quite as close for a while. Then everything went down with me being arrested."

Another pause comes and one could almost feel his inner tension rise. "I never could figure out why my family didn't believe me that I was innocent, especially Quinn. We'd never lied to each other and I mean, something like that... He told me straight to my face that I was lying... said a few things I won't repeat... just like I was a common criminal."

He'd never forget that day, sitting at the table behind bars... that heated conversation had torn his heart in two. For a moment, Axel almost stops breathing until he kisses Jess' head again and holds her a little closer. "I don't know if he just believed the evidence or what... but when we parted, we both agreed in anger that we didn't want to be brothers anymore. He was angry, I was angry and... those harsh words were the last ones spoken between us. I never saw him again after that. He didn't come to my trial and when I got out of prison, everyone was gone. My parents had never even visited me before the trial, though my father did show up for court. I never spoke to them again either."

Shifting a little, Axel straightens out his legs and wraps a foot around one of her ankles. "I don't know if I can call him, Jess. I don't know what good he could possibly want. But if I don't call... I'll always wonder what might have happened."


Chance cleans out the cabinet over his bathroom sink, placing the contents in a small box and marking it "Bathroom." Closing the cabinet, the mirror swings back into place, showing his reflection. His face still bore the marks of fists, and a bandage was still in place near his eye. But the gaze returned to him was dull, lacking life. He'd wanted so badly to come home, and now that he was here, he hated it.

At night I see your tears.
The ones I brought to life in you.
Every time I breathe,
I think that it might be my last.
Forever punished by,
The vision of you crying.
No matter where I turn,
No matter where I go.
These chains won't let me free, no.
You're still haunting me.

"I'll give you fifty for it."

"Seventy five."

"Done."

Chance hands over his stereo to a man milling in the group out back behind the apartments. The sun was setting and a haze fills the air. The cash is slapped in his hand and he pockets it, turning from the others without farewell. There were things that wouldn't fit in his car...things that he could replace later on if he wanted. But everything seemed worthless right now.

I can't close my eyes.
Your tear-filled eyes stare back at me.
I still see your face.
Arrows to my heart cut into lifelessness.
Running for my life.
Shadows suffocating.
Reaching for my soul.
You haunt me.

Chance hangs up the phone and crosses one more thing off his list. Things were moving very quickly. Whenever he'd thought about this transition, he'd always imagined several weeks or even months to prepare. But as it was, several days was all it really took.

Leaning on the kitchen counter, he flips open a file folder that should have gotten to him before he'd left for Nevada, but it had arrived late. The Underground file had been thorough, including a photo of their bait. Chance's thumb runs over the black and white portrait of Destiny. Her eyes held a faraway look of someone who had just lost both parents. Yet the quiet beauty was still there. While someone else might just simply see an attractive photo, Chance saw a life he'd helped ruin.

Setting the picture aside, he takes the file and holds it over the sink. Taking a lighter, he lights the papers on fire and watches them burn until all that was left were black fragments. Picking up the photo again, he holds the lighter to it. But after several long moments, he lowers the lighter and walks away.

Mirrors tell a lie,
I see your face instead of mine.
I can feel your touch,
Your breath caresses hardened soul.
Suffering within,
Eternity of running senseless.
No matter what I say,
No matter what I do.
These chains won't let me free, no.
You're still haunting me.

Crossing the street to the Elite station, Chance catches sight of a woman on the sidewalk, her blonde hair blowing in the breeze. And for a moment, his heart stops. But as she turns, the mirage fades and his pulse slows. Her face was unfamiliar.

"Chance..."

As he enters the station, he eyes Doug. "Just came to clean out my desk."

"Yeah, well..." Doug reaches behind Shirley's desk and lifts up a cardboard box without a lid. "Toby had me clean it out yesterday. Everything's here."

Chance accepts the box with humility, his face reddening. He turns to go, but is stopped.

"Aren't you forgetting something?" It was Toby's voice this time.

Chance turns back around and holds the box in one arm while his other hand fishes in his pocket. Drawing out his Elite badge, he stares at it a moment, running his hand over the star. Tossing it onto Shirley's desk, he nods. A farewell wanted to come, but his voice just didn't cooperate. Aiming for the door, he hits the outdoors once again, taking the box to his car.

I can't close my eyes.
Your tear-filled eyes stare back at me.
I still see your face.
Arrows to my heart cut into lifelessness.
Running for my life.
Shadows suffocating.
Reaching for my soul.
You haunt me.

Another crumpled piece of paper is tossed into the waste basket as Chance sorts through his files while his phone was held to his ear. “I just wanted a change, that’s all. Been here long enough; figured I’d venture out and do something new. I might-”

“Toby called me, Chance.”

Chance’s blood runs cold as the other male voice continues.

“What else have you lied to me about? These past few years – how much was true, huh? And even now, you’re still not man enough to own up to the fact that you betrayed your own and sold them out. If you’re just going to be feeding me lines, then stop calling. I don’t have time to listen to any more lies.”

“Wait, don’t hang up. Dad, I-”
Click.
Chance slowly lowers his phone.

Morning comes again,
But darkness still surrounds my soul.
Watching every step,
Your face appears at every turn.
Torture drives my heart,
I hate myself for lying.
No matter where I turn,
No matter where I go.
These chains won't let me free, no.
You're still haunting me.

"You look like you could use a friend. Let me help you... I want to. Come on."

Those had been Tiffany's words the evening before at the club. Her eyes had held such sparkle... such life. It was almost as if fate were taunting Chance, reminding him of what he'd lost. He remembered a similar sparkle... a similar life that he had helped to destroy. He just wanted to feel it again, grasping at straws for a second chance.

But as he stares out the window now, a bottle of wine and eight hours later, he watches the rain fall, his soul mirroring the gray light of dawn that couldn't break through the clouds. He didn't belong here either and he hated himself even more for thinking this would fix anything, least of all the ache in the pit of his soul.

Moving back to the bed, he grabs his shirt and jeans and quietly leaves, closing the door to the bedroom where Tiffany was still asleep. The sad truth was that she wouldn't miss him.

I can't close my eyes.
Your tear-filled eyes stare back at me.
I still see your face.
Arrows to my heart cut into lifelessness.
Running for my life.
Shadows suffocating.
Reaching for my soul.
You haunt me.

"I'm out."

"You can't just leave like that and you know it."

"Yeah well, I am." Chance paces the edge of the swimming pool while keeping conversation on his cell phone. "I can't be seen with the Elite now and I don't want to run around in hiding. I gambled and lost."

"You've been an asset to the Underground. So you messed up once. We can still use you."

"Look, Mr. A, I'm not kidding. I'm out."

"You're owed for-"

"Keep it. I don't want your money anymore. Don't look for me. You send men, I'll take them out." Chance flips his phone shut and twirls it in his hand, disgust written all over his face. But it wasn't just a disgust for who he'd been involved with...it was disgust with himself for ever playing both sides of the fence.

Yelling in frustration, he hurls his phone through the air. It flies across the pool, across the perimeter fence and crashes into a dumpster, shattering. No one would reach him now.

What lies ahead of me?
What darkness do I follow?
I can't rid myself of memories,
I can't drag them from my mind.

Chance's sunglasses slide down over his eyes as he puts his car in gear. His apartment was empty. Loose ends were neatly tied, and he was free. Pulling out onto the main road, he merges with the busy evening traffic. Glancing at the road signs, he moves to another lane - a lane he'd never driven in before. Heading against the setting sun, he leaves behind what had been his world... a place he'd never intended to leave. But all he wanted now was to get out. All he wanted now was to run.

I can't close my eyes.
Your tear-filled eyes stare back at me.
I still see your face.
Arrows to my heart cut into lifelessness.
Running for my life.
Shadows suffocating.
Reaching for my soul.
You haunt me.

Quinn?

Giving a smile finally getting his name Anastasia pulls out one of the chairs and sets her drink down giving a small chuckle as someone hits the wrong note. Not that she was laughing at them but that his comment just seemed to be all true.

"Well Quinn its very nice to meet you now."

Just letting the quiet linger for a moment as someone finishs up there singing. Anastasia didn't mind the quiet though it was strange she never met Quinn before but the quiet didn't seem so treating at all. It was rather comfortable.

Finally turning to look at Quinn again Anastasia cocks her head a little question in her eyes. Maybe a little curiosity on who he was a little.

"So Quinn, you said you were new in town. Are you stay a while or just passing though?"

Feeling Axel make room on the couch for her Jess just slips next to him resting her head on his other arm making sure she was snuggled in night and tight. Bringing her arms around his Jess holds on to it and runs her fingers over his hand.

"I am real Axel, I always will be and I'm not going anywhere as long as you let me stay."

Continuing to just lay with Axel Jess lets the silence linger. They could be together and not say anything at all and it felt like they had the best conversation. Sometimes the air could be filled with un needed words so the silence was nice too. Finally talking again though after a few more minutes Jess tilts her head back just a little more.

"Do you want to talk about it?"

Handshake

Having been totally lost in his thoughts, Quinn looks up quickly as Anastasia approaches the table. He'd been paying very little attention and hadn't even seen her.

"Well, if it isn't the princess." He grins a little as his hand slides onto the table, slithering back with his dogtags to tuck them in his pocket. "Not too bad around here." He glances around the room and nods. "Good cherry coke." He holds up the cherry with humor.

"The singing..." He glances to the stage then back at Anastasia with a twinkle in his eye. "Well, the cherry coke was great."

Leaning back in his chair, he cocks his head and studies her for a moment. Finally, he reaches out his hand. "I'm Quinn. Wanna join me?"


Hearing Jess enter his apartment, Axel stirs a little, but doesn't get up. Feeling her sit down next to him and her hand on his arm, he shifts his head to look up at her. Letting go of the pillow and letting it drop to the floor, he takes Jess' hand and pulls her down to him, settling back so there's enough room for her to lie in front of him.

Wrapping his arm around her, he holds her close and breathes in the sweet smell of her hair before kissing her head. "I just want you to keep me from running away," he answers quietly. "I just want to know that you're real and that my nightmare isn't all I have."

Stranger

Walking down the street and getting outside of After Hours Anastasia looks around at the people outside quick to see if anyone she new was out there. Seeing a few people she says hi before heading inside and looking around. It was a crowded night tonight but sometimes she liked it like that. It was easy to blend in.

Going to the counter and getting a virgin drink Anastasia slowly walks the floor noting the person on start and the quiet mood change of everyone in the room. Heading to her normal table where some friends would sit she catches sight of Quinn. A smile forms on her lips as she walks over to his table taking a sip of her drink. A smile forms on her lips in seeing him again.

"So Stranger you ended up finding your way here after all huh? Well even if I don't know your name its good to see you again. How do you like it so far here?"

Anastasia had a dark glint in her eyes from the dim light in the room but it made them look more luring and twinkle just be a little bit brighter.

Leaving her house Jess brings a few movies and some snack food in case they wanted anything. She didn't mind staying inside with Axel and not going out. She liked when it was just them sometimes it was just...nice.

Getting to Axel house Jess gives a knock before checking the door and finding it unlock she lets herself inside. Looking into the apartment and seeing Axel on the couch Jess enters.

"Heya, I brought some stuff with me if your in the mood a little bit later."

Going to the table and setting some of the stuff down Jess comes back to the couch and sits on the edge putting her hand on his arm.

"Can I do anything for you?"

Little world

Quinn parks out on the street, eying the building where people were coming and going. He had received directions from the gas station attendant, therefore successfully finding the hotel he'd been looking for and also the bar and karaoke cafe. A couple hours ago, he'd decided not to come. He'd rather hibernate in his hotel room after the earlier events of the day. Axel was on his mind now, and it didn't make for pleasant feelings. But, after a short nap and finding absolutely nothing worth watching on television, Quinn had finally decided to head over to After Hours and just see what was happening. Maybe it would be a good distraction.

So, now that he was here, he eventually exits his car, locking it and heading inside. He'd cleaned up a bit since earlier - showered, trimmed up his beard and combed his hair. At least now he didn't look like a hobo. He'd switched out his cargo pants for a pair of dark blue fitted jeans and his t-shirt was a clean black one now. The chain around his neck was just visible above his collar.

His dark sneakers were quiet on the pavement, and his eyes roamed everything around him. Nodding to a couple people standing outside, he enters on the cafe side of the building, just taking in the activity for a moment. He never really felt nervous in crowds... sometimes it was a rather good place to disappear, though ironic. Fitting in though... that was a different story.

Eventually, Quinn orders a cherry coke and finds a small, round table in the back corner where he could see the entire room, but be away from too much of the hubbub. Listening to a few daring karaoke singers, he grins once in a while, sometimes amused at the efforts of untrained voices, and sometimes thinking some weren't so bad. Mostly though, he simply sits... listens... thinks... and tries to relax. Both elbows rest on the table as he watches the stage and listen to the music, singing and laughing.

As a woman goes onstage to sing, a slow song starts, and she didn't have too bad of a voice. The song was a bit sad, and it seemed to mellow out the room. Quinn spins the cherry that had been served in his drink, staring into the carbonation bubbles. His eyes move to the dogtags that he'd removed from his neck and set on the table. This was supposed to be a fun little stopover and it had turned into so much more. Or had it? Axel probably wouldn't even call.

His eyes remain down, lost in his own little world.


The ringing phone startles Axel and he reaches up over his head to grab it and answer it. Hearing Jess' voice, he relaxes a little, setting his head back down on the cushion, and pulling the pillow a little closer. No, he wasn't ok. "Yeah... yeah, I'm alright."

No, he didn't feel up to company. "You think maybe you could just come over here for a bit tonight?" He bites his lip. He knew he couldn't pull away from her... none of this was her fault and he couldn't make her feel badly for any of it. "I know we were gonna go out but... would that be okay?"

Receiving a "yes," Axel winds up the short conversation and hangs up. Instead of getting up and ready for company though, he just stays where he is. Curling up again, he remains on the couch, his arm still around a pillow. He was used to running away from times like these, but he knew he couldn't this time.

Not feeling like getting up, Axel knows that his front door is unlocked and that Jess can let herself in when she arrives. For now, he just wanted to stay here a while longer.

Up to him

Beth pats Zora's head and gives a little smile to the door before watching them leaving. Standing at the door Beth gives a wave as she watches Justin and the dog drive away before heading back inside.

"He has to let me work here, he's my Uncle. Ok, well he doesn't have to but I guess he'd rather it be there than for someone else."

Anastasia gives another grin and a small shake of her head as Quinn still doesn't tell her his name. He was the man of mystery and for some reason, something about that seemed even more luring.

"Maybe she will tell you stranger, maybe she will."

Watching as he leaves Anastasia just stands there for the longest moment. Grinning at her own self.

"You look redikulace standing there grinning at nothing."

A man in his early Fourtys was standing infront of an office door looking at her his own grin showing on his face. His hair was a short spiky jet black color and his cloths resembled an older rockstare but not way out there and tacky.

Turning around Anastasia eyes the man for a moment before sticking her toung out at him.

"Oh shut up."

The man laughs and walks closer to her giving her a half hug and leaning down a little to kiss the top of her head.

"I'm your Uncle I am aloud to tease you and look out for you. Why do you think I hired you here?"

"Ummm...because I know what I am talking about when it comes to older music and this is where I mostly get my stuff from?"

Anastasia gives a laugh and shakes her head again. She'd worked for her Uncle quite a while now and loved every moment. When she was off sometimes she could be found here too. This place alone was like home. She just...felt like she belonged here.

"Ok, so maybe that is why I highered you but I got to make sure no skum bags try to take advantage of you."

"I think that guy was hardly that."

"Yeah, but I've never seen him before just watch yourself if you plan on going to After Hours tonight."

"You know I will Uncle Chuck."

Anastasia leans up and gives her Uncle a kiss on the cheek before moving away from the counter and going back to putting the records back in order. Would she go to the Cafe tonight? She hadn't been there in a while it might me fun. Not to mention the mystery man might be there as well.

Looking at the clock and see what time it was Jess figured she'd call Axel now. He had been home for a little but now more than likely and been able to relax a little so it would safe to call. Dialing the number and waiting Jess finally hears Axel's voice.

"Hey Hun, I figured I'd call because I wasn't to sure if you up to company tonight or not. Are you ok?"

Jess wasn't sure what to say other than that. Making sure Axel was important was a must and than if he still wanted her to come over than she would but she would leave it up to him.

Princess

Standing up and accepting the leftovers, Justin nods. "Thank you. I had a nice time too. You have a nice home and you're a good cook." He smiles, then pats his leg to signal the dogs he was ready to go. "C'mon, girls... time to go home."

Both dogs rise obediently, stretching and yawning. Danitza gives Beth's hand a nuzzle and lick before trotting to the door, awaiting her leash, while Zora is a little less enthusiastic, remaining glued to Justin's heel.

Once outside, it was already growing dark, and Justin heads for his truck, turning to wave to Beth one last time. "Goodnight, Beth. See you tomorrow."


Quinn's eyes still shine, though now he smirks at Anastasia. "You drive a hard bargain. I'm surprised they still let you work here."

Taking the record and his change, he cocks his head. "Though I suppose I could have a less attractive woman flirting with me." Tossing her a wink, he turns from the counter and waves over his shoulder. "I gotta get gas anyway. I suppose the pretty blonde down there will be more than willing to give me directions."

Pausing at the door, he glances back to the counter, a grin still held in place. "Later, Princess."


"Thanks, Ryan." Axel nods and finally turns to go. Avoiding the other guys, he clocks out, then heads around and up the outside steps to his apartment. Getting inside, he shuts the door and leans back against it, sighing deeply.

After a few moments, he sheds his work clothes to change into a comfortable pair of baggy jeans and a clean t-shirt. Then heading for the couch, he lies down on the cushions and pulls a pillow up to hold in his arms.

Quinn. Their parents. The past. Childhood. Prison. It was all coming back again.

Axel closes his eyes tight, not wanting to face any more nightmares. Not now... not when things were going so well. Maybe Quinn would just leave town and not start anything. Maybe nothing would happen at all and life could just move on.

...A few hours later, Axel knew that Jess would either be calling or showing up, and he was still curled up on the couch, not having risen once. He just didn't feel like it.

Jog Memorie!

Working quietly with Axel Ryan picks up on his body language and just the demeanor he held today. There was something wrong just how Axel was acting was far from normal for him. But staying quit Ryan continues to work till finally Axel wants to quit.

Standing up she just studys him for a moment before finally giving a nod. She felt bad not know what was wrong and wished she could but it was Axel and he always kept it to himself.

"Yeah not a problem, I'll see you tomorrow. If you need anything Axel, just call."

She new he wouldn't but it was worth saying it anyways just in case one day he really needed someone to talk too.

Another smile spreads across Anastasia's lips. Seeing Quinn go back to the Ricky Nelson record she gives another little chuckle. Finishing his humor and wit a tiny bit interesting. Seeing him go to the counter Anastasia moves away from where the records were and goes to the counter ring him up.

"Mmmm...I can't quite remember the directions. Maybe if I new your name it would jog my memorie now how to get there."

Leaning on the counter a little bit with the bag Anastasia's eyes twinkle with a humor in them as she search Quinn's face. His eyes seemed so deep it was hard to over look them. They were deep luring pools that just seemed to draw someone in.

Beth couldn't help the warm feeling she felt inside. It was different but nice, it just seemed to warm everything inside and give her a little tingle. Being around Justin was nice, and it was a great feeling to think about having a friend. Beth had been alone for a long time she never realized how lonely it was till now.

Hearing Justin had to leave for the night Beth finishs up in the kitchen bring a small container back into the living room with it.

"It is kind of getting late. I didn't even realize what time it was. I back up some left overs for you though so you can enjoy it tomorrow."

Beth gives a smile handing it to him a little proud of herself knowing she'd made it through the night without panicking or anything. She had a nice time tonight and enjoyed herself. She was happy Justin had come out. Her nerves seemed to be disappearing slowly as well.

"We will have to do this again sometime. I....had a nice time."

Directions

Once Axel is rejoined with Ryan, he lets her know what he's been working on, and shows her where he needs an extra set of hands. Working for a while, he's quiet... even quieter than normal. Though dropping a wrench twice and struggling with a hose that was simple proved his mind was very far away from this task.

Eventually he grows frustrated enough that coming up from the engine, he shakes his head. "This brute doesn't have to be done until tomorrow anyway... I think I'm gonna call it a day."

It was unusual that he would quit before anyone else, but he sets aside his tools, proving that he did intend to stop for the day. "If Darrel complains, send him to me. It'll just add to this fantastic day I've had."

Leaning on the tool bench and staring down at nothing, he knows that it wasn't like him to be sarcastic like that and it didn't feel good, but everything inside was so upside down at the moment, that he didn't even know how to react to anything.

Turning to look at Ryan, his mouth opens, as if to say something, but then he shakes his head, changing his mind. "Sorry. I'll see you tomorrow, okay?"


Mom and Pop's... no, Quinn recognized that name and he wasn't about to go back there and tangle with the cook. "Karaoke, huh?" He lifts an eyebrow in interest. That scene sounded like an easy one to blend into... just fade away from eyes for a while. Races didn't interest him, nor did the prospect of hanging out at a bar. "That sounds like it might be what I need tonight."

Still sifting through records, he lifts his head and looks over to Anastasia at her last comment. A thin smile tugs on his lips and his eyes show a little twinkle. "Not fair, huh? You're the one walking around with a name badge. If I did that, somebody would think I worked here too and I guarantee you'd lose customers."

Still grinning, he goes back to the records and returns to the Ricky Nelson one that had drawn his attention in the first place. He needed to go, but he would probably be back before he left town, so he could look around in here some more. Pulling out the album, he nods. "Can't pass it up."

Wandering to the counter to check out, he pays with cash. "So I'm going to need directions to that cafe... and while you're at it, I'm also looking for the Super 8 that I apparently missed and have been wandering around trying to find." His eyes roam Anastasia's face again as a grin toys with just the very corner of his mouth. "Help a poor, lost soul and I might be back for another record before I leave town."


Justin smiles and shakes his head. "You've given me plenty. Thank you."

Chuckling softly, he watches Beth. "The zoo is a fun place to go. When I was a kid, I could wander around there for hours."

Remaining seated as Beth takes the dishes and returns, his mind wanders several directions, deciding which one might be best to take, or seeing that neither mattered. He was getting a little sleepy though.

Leaning his head on the cushion, the peace he seemed to emit does not leave. "I should probably get going, Beth. If I don't, I'm liable to fall asleep here." He grins. "If you want company for that trip to the zoo though, let me know, alright?"

Not Fair

Ryan gives a nod not to sure she really believed Axel would be ok. It was so rare something like this happened and let it show that in a way it kind of worried Ryan more. But knowing if Axel didn't want to talk about it he wouldn't Ryan didn't bother to push it.

"Yeah I can help you no problem. I just have a few things to tighten on the car I am working on and I'll be over."

Going back to her car Ryan fiddles around for a few more moments before finally closing the hood. Putting her tools back and whipping her hands on her rag Ryan heads back over to where Axel was.

"Ok, so where are you and what do you want me to help with?"

Anastasia giving a smile and an interested nod hearing the back of his car was filled with more old records. Intresting how he transported them, did he just move here or was he passing though. He seemed like a very interesting man to say the least.

"There is always room for one more. Even if another can't fit, there is room to figure it out for good music. I just wish more people could see the deeper meaning in it."

The one corner of her mouth gives a twitch as it forms on softer smile still leaning on the shelf a little. Her eyes seemed to dance with the light in the room, soft, but deep with much mystery to them.

Hearing he was new in town it semi answered her question but still left it open for if he was just passing through or not. Leaving that aside for now though Anastasia looks into his eyes for a long moment searching them wondering what kind of relaxing fun he was looking for. Seeing now really intense party side in him Anastasia stands up and moves down a little bit running her hands over the records shifting some around or back into place.

"A good place to sit and unwind would be Mom and Pop's cut little itailn restront, or you could always go to After hours, It's a bar slash karaoke cafe. The bar is on one side, and the cafe is on the other. Its monitered pretty well so anyone that trys to start a problem its stop before getting out of hand. "

Stopping at one spot in the records she gives a chuckle to herself pulling out an Elvis record and putting it in another spot where it belonged. She could do this for hours just going through and putting everything where is belonged and back in the right spot.

"A lot of the people that go up there to sing are pretty darn good too. You get the bad ones, but even they are fun to watch because at least they are trying and having fun. There are a few good bars around here too so I am told if your into that kind of thing. I couldn't tell you from personal experience though I've never been to one."

Thinking for a moment on what else she could fill the customer in on she stops again looking over the at him again for a long moment. The smile still on her lips, and her eyes still sparkling.

"Outside of town there are a few car races that go on, and sometimes there a few real good bands that are playing. So for good clean, relaxing fun thats about it."

Squinting her eyes for a moment Anastasia train of thought is broken as the bell on the door rings and someone else comes in. Giving a smile and a nod to someone who entered the store Anastasia turns her attachen back to Quinn.

"So I don't think its to fair, you know my name but I still have nothing to call you by!"

Listing to Justin Beth finishes off her pie interested in what he said he liked to do. It didn't seem like it was much involvement himself with people but he still got to do a little in his free time. Maybe he just liked to work a lot, like she liked to surrounded herself.

"That's cool."

Finishing the last bit of pie from her plate Beth just lets the quiet linger for a moment. Her own mind was working thinking of things to say. She wanted to be able to talk to Justin, she wanted to have more things to talk about what she did in her life but she did nothing.

"I was thinking about going to the zoo, or something sometimes. Maybe than I'll have something interesting to talk to you about."

Beth gives a small smile before offering to take Justin's plate and hers to the kitchen. She wasn't sure when Justin wanted to leave and she didn't mind if he stayed she just didn't want him to be bored.

"Did you want anything else Justin?"

Busy

Quinn had already spotted the young woman through his peripheral vision, so he wasn't taken by surprise when he heard her voice. What did surprise him though was her obvious love of Ricky Nelson too.

He grins, still eying the album. "You have good taste."

Finally looking up, his eyes smile more than his mouth does, and his gaze seems far away, yet very near and almost probing but not invading. "The trunk of my car is full as it is, but... there's always room for one more record."

Slipping the record back in its spot, he remembers where it is in case he does buy it, and he thumbs through some more titles. Glancing to the employee again, his gaze gives her face a quick study, her leather band not escaping him. Nor did her looks.

Going back to the records, he speaks while sifting through the records. "So... Anastasia... I'm new in town. I've obviously found a hot spot for good music, but where's a body go around here to just sit and unwind?"


Axel looks quickly to Ryan, trying to regain some control over his thoughts, but he wasn't very successful. "No... no it's not," he answers vaguely.

Wiping his hands on a rag, he looks at the car he'd been working on, then back to Ryan. Putting a hand to his head, he runs his thumb over his forehead, trying to concentrate. "I'm fine... I will be. Just... some news threw me for a loop, that's all. I could um... use some help over here though, when you're done with your car."


Justin chuckles, recognizing Beth's awkwardness, though he wasn't quite sure how to solve it at this point. "Hmm, well..." He scrapes off the last bit of pie and sets aside his plate. Turning a little more to be completely sideways on the couch, he draws up his knees and wraps his arms around them.

"I like... taking walks... playing with my two girls... um..." He chuckles again. "I guess I don't give myself much free time in between my work at Brookshire and all the odd jobs I take on. But... it keeps me busy." Maybe someday he'd admit to himself that he enjoyed surrounding himself with work so he wouldn't have time for a social life. At least he did now. Perhaps that look in his eye, the tattoos on his arm and his learned quietness proved that not so long ago he'd had much more of that social life than he currently did.

Definitely Worth

Leaning back in the booth Jess lets out a small sigh as Axel hangs but without her being able to say much more. She couldn't blame him that he was upset. If it was her she probably would be too.

Picking up her book again Jess starts to read she'd call Axel later tonight. No matter how she tried though her mind just wouldn't concentrate. Leaning her head back and closing her eyes for a moment Jess just trys to calm her own heart and mind.

Working away on her car Ryan glances up and catches Leo's eye. Seeing him nod twords Axel Ryan turns just a little looking over her shoulder. Seeing the look on his face it was easy to tell something was wrong. He didn't often show his emotions so to see some of them slipping though it had to be something big.

Standing up and causally walking over to where Axel was Ryan didn't want to draw much attachen to him knowing he liked keeping to himself but wanting to make sure he was ok.

"Axel, is everything ok? You look like you might pass out any moment."

Hearing the small bell on the door jingle Anastasia looks up from the shelf of old records she was putting away. Pushing some of her long honey brown hair off her shoulder she eyes the man that had just walked in.

A black tank top accented her shape making a soft russle as she moved her arm, nice dark jeans accenting the shirt. A black leather strap around her wrist showed she might like a little rock herself, engraved on it were the words He lives!Her name badge hung from her shirt proving she worked in the shop.

Continuing to watch as the man came back to the older stuff Anastasia shifts a little still quiet as she takes in the mans charming looks. The fact he liked older stuff alone made him that much more appealing than the normal riff raph they got in the store.

Seeing him pull out the record of Ricky Nelson a smile cross her face even more. Leaning on the record rack a little bit to look over a little close at the record he was holding she finally speaks.

"Ricky Nelson has some of the most amazing music. That's my favorite album he did. It's definitely one worth putting in a collection."

Continuing to lean on the shelf Anastasia's eyes give a sparkle as she looked up at him. She loved talking about music especially the older stuff. Not to mention this new coming seemed intresting to her maybe it was just because she never saw him before.

"I'll have to remember that saying. It sounds...smart."

Beth goes back to her pie letting the conversation become quiet for a moment. As she eats her mind still wonders trying to find something else to talk about. She liked having the company more than she thought she would but now she had run out of things to say.

"I don't know what to talk about now even though I'd like to talk more."

Beth gives a little nervous laugh before looking down at her plate again. She felt silly, almost like a kid again wondering what to say to someone they just met.

"Ummm...what else do you like to do other than fishing?"

Oh, shut up

Busy at work amongst the teasing, chatter and clanging of tools in car engines, Axel barely hears his cell phone ringing on the work bench. Recognizing Jess' ringtone, he goes to answer it. They were supposed to do supper tonight, but if she was calling him during the day, it might mean a change of plans.

Putting one hand over his other ear to muffle the garage sounds, he answers. "Hey, Jess, what's up?"

As Jess speaks, Axel becomes on edge. Her tone wasn't right. Something was wrong. Still trying to hear her clearly, her words of what had happened hit him like a cannon shot to the gut. Leaning back against the wall, his face pales as his heart skips a beat. Quinn? Quinn was in town? Looking for him? That couldn't be good.

Axel's mind reels and he feels dizzy and sick to his stomach at the same time. He'd figured he would never see his brother again. It hadn't been meant to be. They'd parted ways. Quinn had abandoned him, not even believing he was innocent.

The fear, anger and hurt come rushing back like a wave.

Axel suddenly realizes Jess had paused, and he'd been holding his breath. Sucking in air, everything seems to spin and he tries to focus for Jess' sake. It probably hadn't been easy for her to call and he had to make sure that she didn't think she'd done anything wrong.

"Thank you, Jess. I..." He what? What now? She had a number?

"I don't have a pen... um... a pen handy so... um tonight..." Were they still going out? "Call me... after work, okay? I'll... talk to you more then. Thanks for letting me know."

Ending the call, he doesn't leave room for any more conversation about it. He didn't know what to say, and even if he did, now was not the time or place. Setting his phone aside again, he stares at the car he'd been working on. All of a sudden, he had no idea what he'd been doing or what he needed to do next.


Fooling around with the others and almost done with his car, Leo catches sight of Axel nearby, and he stops, concerned. It looked like Axel had seen a ghost. Leo turns and catches Ryan's eye, then nods to Axel, wondering if he was the only one who thought something strange was up.


Quinn drives to the end of the street, coming to a halt at a stop sign. Without any other cars behind him, he just sits for a moment, his hands flexing on the steering wheel. His heart was still beating fast, and a bit of sweat runs down the back of his neck. His stomach did an odd flipflop and for a moment, he thought he might be sick.

Axel... after all these years... stumbling across him completely by accident. What was he thinking, trying to even contact him? Quinn felt as if he'd panicked. He should have just walked away. Why had he given the girl his phone number? For those few minutes he'd just felt... shocked. Pure and simple. All the anger he'd felt those years before was now surfacing, but moments ago, all he'd felt was shock. Axel probably wouldn't want to contact him any more than he'd wanted to contact Axel these past years. So he should just move on and forget about it... right? Axel wouldn't call him and... he shouldn't go looking for him either. It was a crazy idea that would only end in more heartache anyway.

Getting a grip on himself, Quinn starts out across the intersection, trying to just calm his nerves. He'd seen signs for a hotel somewhere around here, but after stopping for something to drink at the little pizza place, he'd now forgotten which way he needed to go.

Heading down one street then another, he finds himself in a district of shops that looked a bit intriguing. His emotions had been jarred and his mood was not the best... he needed something to unwind... he needed a distraction before the barrage of memories took over. He was just passing through... just passing through.

Seeing a sign that read Disc O Round, Quinn's interest was piqued. Records, instruments and CDs adorned the window display. A music shop. Vintage? That was the kind of distraction he could handle.

Pulling to the curb, he kills the engine and plays with the keys for a moment.
Keep going, Quinn... keep on going. You thought about Axel just the other day - this is no different. You could have been in the same town with him a bazillion times and just never realized it.

Yeah, but I didn't even know he was out of prison.

So? Everybody gets out eventually, even the guilty ones.

Right... so this is no different than any other day... I just gotta ignore the fact that I'm within miles of a brother I haven't seen in years.

But you're angry with him, remember? He betrayed your trust. Look at what he did.

He said he was innocent.

With what proof? You warned him about hanging out with the wrong crowd. You knew he would be influenced and he finally took things too far. It's obvious.

So now what? He's going to have my number.

And? If he's the kind of man you remember, he won't call. He's a criminal and besides, you turned your back on him.

I abandoned him... when he needed me the most, or so Jess says.

One side of the story, Quinn... just one side of the story. Don't forget yours. You got pain too.

Why didn't I just walk away? Why did I tell them that I wanted to see Axel?

Maybe deep down, you do.

You just reminded me of his betrayal and my pain! Why would I want to see him?

You're the one messed up, not me.

"Oh, shut up." Quinn grumbles and gets out of the car, tired of the inner discussion with his conscience. Locking the doors, he heads to the entrance of the store, pausing to look in the window for a moment.

Getting into the shop, the little bell dings and he takes a cursory glance around, seeing new music along one wall, while the older things seemed a little farther towards the back. That's where he heads, clipping his keys to his beltloop and running his fingers along a shelf of classic rock CDs.

Making it nearer the back, Quinn spies the racks of old record albums. The quite rock n' roll music playing in the store seemed soothing today. It had just enough edge to match his mood, but it was quiet enough to not rile him.

Sifting through the record albums, some were new, some were used and most had at least a thin layer of dust. "Mmmm." His finger touches on one in particular. "Hello, Ricky Nelson... you would do quite nicely in my collection, wouldn't you?"


"Hey, that sounds good too." Justin nods as he continues to eat his pie. "They say a way to a man's heart is through his stomach... I'm no exception." He chuckles, his eyes twinkling a little in the living room light. In reality, he usually ate very little, but did frequently enjoy a good meal at his mother's or at friends.

Falling quiet again, Justin lets Beth take her own pace. When his pie was done and nothing else was to be conversed, he would make his leave. But if she continued to talk, he would stay.

Axel, I'm sorry!

Jess takes the napkin and watches as Quinn leaves. Watching as well and making sure he got into his car. Sitting back and looking down at the napkin for a long moment just studying it. Carson words break through her thoughts as she turns and looks at him. Giving a nod she new she had to call Axel because if anything bad happened and she hadn't Jess would feel she was the one to blame.

"Yeah I was just about to call him now. Thanks Carson for helping me out there, I just kind...froze."

Giving a smile to Carson Jess pulls out her phone and dials Axel's number. She had no idea what she was going to say to him but she had to do it. Hearing his voice on the other end of the cell a smile coming across her lips.

"Hey there Hun. I'm sorry to bother you at work but there....was something that happened today I needed to tell you about even if I didn't want to. There...was a guy who came in today and saw the dog tags you gave me. He was quite interested in them, and he had a set just like them. He said he said his name was Quinn, your brother Axel."

Jess lets the silence linger for a moment clearing her own throat and looking down at the napkin.

"He gave me his number for you but I thought I should tell you so in case he was gonna start trouble you new he was here."

Taking a bit of the pie herself Beth gives a smile just enjoying the taste. It did tastes different this time around but it was nice, and it really did feel good having someone over to enjoy it with her.

"I have a hole book full of different recipes my mom had wrote down. She always said it was so one day when we had our own family's we could share a little of our childhood with them."

Beth picks at her pie for a moment for scooping another peace and eating it before looking at Justin again a small little flicker of light in her eye.

"I'm happy she did write them down. I always liked her cooking. Maybe you can come over again another time and I can make something else from it for you. I bet you'd like her chicken parm."

Too late

Hearing Jess' words, Quinn's shoulders drop a little, tension showing in his eyes. For the longest moment, he just studies her eyes as if searching for something deeper... something more. His gaze was much like that of his brother's - luring and cryptic. "Well, I guess there's always two sides to a story, aren't there?"

Carson clears his throat, reinserting himself in the conversation. "It's apparent that you realize we do know Axel. But as Jess just pointed out, we see no reason to give you direction as to where he is. Neither of us would feel comfortable with that."

Thinking for another moment, Quinn shrugs lamely. "I guess I can't blame you. I'd probably be the same way if I were in your spot. Axel's obviously made some loyal friends. I just wonder why he needs such strong protection."

"It's not protection. It's respect."

Quinn nods. "Alright... fine. I'll look elsewhere. In the meantime though..." He finds a pen and grabs a napkin, scribbling out a phone number, then sliding the napkin to Jess. "If you see him... at least give him this number. I'm only passing through though so if he wants a chance to talk, he's got just a couple days. If I don't hear from him, I'll assume that I'm as dead to him as he's been to me these past years."

Giving Jess a last glance, he straightens and nods to Carson. "I'm sorry to have bothered both of you. Thanks for the coke."

Carson doesn't move, but watches as Quinn leaves, making sure he does get into his car and drives away. Glancing to Jess, he's quiet for only a moment. "You need to tell Axel about this right away - I wouldn't wait. If Quinn has other ideas, Axel needs to know, and tonight might be too late."


"Well... it's delicious." Justin takes another bite of pie and chews slowly so he can savor the taste. "Funny how recipes can be a way in which to remember someone by. Stuff like that can't ever be erased - it just keeps getting passed down and there is always love attached."

Now sitting sideways in the corner of the couch, he leans his head on the back cushion and watches Beth for several seconds. "And now it's your recipe too. We get dealt things all the time and everything is handed down to us one way or another... but in the end, we're the ones adding this or that to make it ours." Was he still talking about food, or life?

He smiles and takes another bite. "You're going to spoil me."

Hesatation

Dalton gives a little sigh. He wanted so bad to be able to wave a magic wand and make his friend better but its just want possible. All he could do was sit, wait, and continue to be a friend that Scott needed.

"I'll let them both know for you."

Though he didn't like the subject change Dalton new Scott could only take so much and Dalton didn't want to give him an over drive. Leaning back in the chair again his eyes roam around the room coming to the applesauce and cheese again.

"So you think I should clean that up or leave it there for Mary?"

As the movie comes to a close Beth sits up a little and gives a stretch. It had been a long while since she sat through a whole movie without moving so her body was a little stiff. Taking her plat and Justin's Beth stands starting to clear some stuff up.

"Alright...it's pie time."

Bringing the items to the kitchen Beth gets two more plates and cuts the pie dishing it out. The pie had turned out better than the first time and she was pleased. Coming back to the living room and sitting down again Beth hands Justin his plate. Giving a smile.

Taking a bite Beth closes her eyes for a moment just enjoying the pie. It tasted so good, and was a very nice treat.

"My mom used to make pie too all the time. She'd let me help her, thats how I learned how to make it. This is her recipe I use."

As Carson comes closer Jess relaxed a little bit. He was one of her close friends and she new with him around no harm would come to her. He was good like that. Looking between Carson and this other man as they talked Jess kept quiet as she took everything in.

Hearing that he new Axel her heart raced a little bit. For all she new it could be someone who was trying to hurt him for the past and Jess didn't want that to happen. So could they trust this man or not she really didn't know.

But when hearing his own name Jess can't help the little bit of shock on her face as she looked to Carson and than back to Quinn. Axel talked little of his brother and from what he had said she new it was painful for him to talk about so she never pushed it. There was a bit of hesatation in Jess voice but she spoke anyways.

"Axel hardly ever talks about you because it's to hard. All I know is you abandoned your brother when he needed you the most. Why could you possibly want to talk to him now?"

No she's wouldn't tell Quinn to find Axel brother or not. Not without asking Axel himself first and getting his thoughts on it. It wasn't for her to decied...it was for Axel.

Quinn

Scott fiddles with the hem of his blanket, his eyes down as Dalton speaks. Part of him wanted so badly to embrace those thoughts.... the thoughts that there really was hope... that he wasn't alone... that here was a friend who understood at least for the most part. Yet part of him continued to wage war, trying to convince him that the fight wasn't worth it.

He'd felt like he belonged once... it seemed so long ago. He could still recall the most perfect time in his life. He'd had a stable position at TJY... he'd been happy... he'd been engaged... he'd known what he wanted and the world didn't seem so scary anymore. He'd gone from a nerd to being himself and it had felt wonderful. Then everything had fallen apart and it never had been quite right anymore. Could those feelings really ever be regained? Was Dalton right?

A silent tear rolls down his cheek and he quickly swipes it away. "Tell Sapphire hi from me when you go back, okay?" It was an obvious topic change, but he did it anyway. There were too many things to think about... too much crowding his mind... he couldn't keep talking about it all now.

Reaching out, he takes another small sip of Mountain Dew. His nausea was returning and so was a headache. "And... and tell Hope I say to get better too."


Enjoying the meal and the movie, Justin remains relaxed, eventually setting aside his empty plate and leaning back, still cross-legged. Laughing at the humor in the movie, he notices Beth's quiet laughter too, and he's glad to hear it.

As the credits finally roll, Justin knows that Beth still has the pie waiting, and he wonders if the dessert will end the evening, or if she would open up to him any more. Either way, he would go with the flow. He had all night, or could go home too, if that's what she wanted.


"Your boyfriend?" The man's eyes widen just a little bit more, seeming to be more from awe than plain surprise. "Were they his?"

"Excuse me." Carson steps closer, his arms folded over his chest. He look to Jess and gives her a little nod to let her know it was okay. "Can I help you?"

The man rises and turns to see Carson, noting the uneasy look in his eye. "I'm sorry - I was just inquiring about this woman's dogtags and where she got them."

"Why?"

"Well..." The stranger backs off a little, his eyes narrowing slightly. "What's it to you?"

Carson doesn't budge, but simply lifts one eyebrow. "This is my restaurant. Anybody causes trouble, I ask them to leave." He wasn't threatening, and his tone was not angry. This guy could be perfectly innocent, but around here, Carson didn't take any chances.

"Hey, I wasn't trying to cause any trouble." The man holds up his hands. "I just noticed the dogtags and wondered where they were from."

"What's it to you?"

The man looks between Carson and Jess for a moment. "Are you... are you her boyfriend?"

Carson can't suppress the slight laugh that surfaces. Yes, a while back he had been. But anyone who didn't know them wouldn't see the humor. "No, I'm not. But I am her friend and as such, I tend to look out for her wellbeing. See... a strange man approaching a pretty young woman like this..." He purses his lips. "Innocent or not, you're not doing yourself any favors."

"Look, I'm sorry." The man looks to Jess, apology in his eyes. "I didn't mean to make you uncomfortable. I just... I needed to know about the tags."

By now, Carson was more concerned for Axel than he was Jess. There were still crazies out there, after him for his past, and if someone had found him here, Carson wasn't willing to take a backseat. Axel was probably his best friend and he wouldn't want to find out later that this guy had bad motives. "How about you tell us why you wanted to know about them? Then maybe we can trust you."

"Carson!" Dani calls from the kitchen. "Your-"

Carson holds up a hand but doesn't turn around, and hollers over his shoulder. "Busy! Take care of it." His eyes remain on the stranger. "So... who do you think those dogtags belong to?"

"Well, I don't know who this girl's boyfriend is, but those tags originally belonged to Axel Thornton."

Carson looks to Jess, then back to the man again. "Are you looking for him?"

"No. Well..." The man hesitates, a confused mixture of emotions in his eyes. "I wasn't. But... that's only because I thought he was in prison."

Carson thinks for a moment, then nods towards the door. "I think you better leave."

"No, wait... please. I'll just find out somewhere else, but I can tell that both of you know Axel, and apparently you're trying to protect him. It's commendable, but I have no ill intent. Believe me. Please... I don't want to spend my time digging when I could just hear it from you."

Carson's eyes narrow as he studies this stranger. There was something familiar about him... He looks to Jess again, wondering how she felt about all of this, then back to the man. "Who are you?"

The stranger hesitates. "My name is Quinn." Reaching into his t-shirt, he pulls out a set of dogtags that matched the ones Jess was wearing. "Quinn Thornton. Axel's my brother."

Carson can't stop the surprise that passes over his face. He knew very little about Axel's brother... only that they'd been best friends up until Axel's conviction. Carson had never even known a name, but that was always a very private part of Axel's life that he didn't talk about and Carson had respected that. But as little as he did know, he wasn't convinced that there was no ill intent here. Quinn had abandoned his brother years ago... what good could he possibly want now? Carson's gaze drifts back to Jess with question... did she want to tell this man more? She knew Axel's story too. Did she trust Quinn? Or should Carson send him away?

If I can, You can!

Dalton sits in the chair unmoving continuing to watch Scott, and listen to his words. His expression didn't change much other than to show he was listen and new what Scott said. But he did not hold a look of anger or irritation for Scott in the least bit.

Watching as Scott took a bit of his toast inside Dalton was nodding to himself. It was a start if anything that Scott took that bit, its was the most food Dalton had seen him eat in a long time.

"You do have a place Scott. Your place is at home with your friends, and if you ever wanted to go back TJY, and if you don't want to go back there than you could get a job else where. You do fit in with you friends family, and with Hope. Its a continues road we walk down finding new things."

Thinking for a second again Dalton finally looks away and down at his large hands for a moment. In a way he new how Scott felt with not fitting in. Maybe thats why they seemed to get along so well. Both of them were different, outcast maybe some would say, but accepted.

"It's not easy for me to fit in either Scott. I have a hard time with my size and my scars. People see me and they want to run the other way because of how I look. Finding the right place, finding the right place is never easy Scott, but when you find them in the end it's an amazing feeling and you've felt it before. All hope Scott is not lost, and if a big Hulk of a guy like me can do it. So can you!"

Giving a chuckle at the dogs Beth brings her feel up onto the couch folding them under her, her plate resting on the arm rest. Taking a fry and dragging it through some ketchup Beth gievs a smile happy to know Justin liked it.

"Thanks!"

Standing the movie Beth continues the meal as the movie starts to play. At the funny parts she smiled, and laughed a little but a little was better than nothing.

Sitting quietly at one of the tables at Mom and Pop's Jess was content with her sandwich as she was already reading a book. Today was a slow day no work for her, but Axel was working so to pass the time she deiced to come here and grab something to eat and just hang out.

Not paying much attachen to what was going on around her Jess doesn't notice the man who had squatted down in front of her until he'd been there for a little bit. Lowing the book and giving a little jump Jess hands automatically go to the dog tages she was wearing. She's never left without them knowing how important they were to Axel and now how important they were to her.

Moving back just a little bit Jess couldn't help but be a little nervous at the man's presence. She didn't know who he was and his behavior was just a little strange to her. Was he someone she new once? Someone she'd ripped off? Jess wracked her brain coming up with nothing. Maybe if she just told him he'd go away.

"My boyfriend gave them to me."

Looking over the mans shoulder for a moment Jess saw Carson coming over. She new this guy was not threatening but he still made her nervous being so close to her anyways. What did he want from her? She couldn't help the little bit of cerousity.

Stranger

Settling into the living room, Justin sits down on the couch next to Beth, but makes sure she has plenty of space. Hearing her quiet prayer, a little smile comes to his lips and he bows his head, murmuring a soft "amen" as she ends.

At her cue to dig in, he rubs his hands together in anticipation. "Say no more."

Danitza's head rises up from the floor and she looks at Justin with a little bit of drool running from her mouth. He shakes a finger at her. "If you think I'm going to give up this food to you, you are sorely mistaken."

Old habits die hard, and they also take over any precautions of being proper. With his shoes slipped off, Justin pulls his legs up to sit cross-legged on the couch and sets his plate in his lap. Going for his hamburger first, he takes a bite and chews slowly, enjoying it. "Mm-mm..." He gives Beth a thumbs up before he can speak again. "Ya done good... tastes great."


Scott usually looked Dalton in the eye, but today, he had a hard time. Staring at his food tray, he listens, even if it doesn't seem like it. Not his time? God's reason? Scott had admitted to no one that lately he'd begun to question God. He'd been abducted by the Agency, beaten, starved, tortured and worse, then once he was brought back to the living, he'd undergone more mental anguish, just to think he'd recovered then backslide into an even deeper pit, sending him to a mental hospital where he'd gone half mad from a nervous breakdown and brain overload, and all to wind up in this point in time where the data still was controlling him, and even his brain was trying to kill him with an eating disorder. Yeah, it felt like a reason to stay alive, alright.

Without realizing it, Scott's hand had balled into a fist, clenching his blanket tightly. There was anger inside of him that had not been allowed to surface. Complaints he wanted to hurl at the wind. He wanted to hit someone or something and wanted to kick and scream his way out of this miserable place.

Dalton's words do sink in though... the ones about the people who cared. He missed his friends... he missed his family. Part of him though, was unsure if he'd even be able to face them after this. He knew that being at Brookshire wasn't his fault, but having been in a mental hospital, it... to him, it was embarrassing. What would people think of him after this? Would they treat him the same? Or differently? Where would he go, anyway? He was out of a job... his photography had gone into the trash the day he'd thrown his camera away. His camera.... he missed it.

"But what's my purpose, Dalton?" His voice comes out quiet... strained... weak. "Even if I ever get out of here... what's the point? I... I have nowhere to belong now. It's all just... meaningless."

Despite that thought, he takes hold of a slice of toast and takes a good-sized bite out of the corner, gagging just to make it go down. A sip of Mountain Dew helps.


A tall man, appearing to be nearing thirty, leans on the counter at Mom and Pop's and enjoys a cold coke. Turning, he scans the peaceful restaurant and the faces. A family in the corner... a couple of guys - probably on their lunch break from work and... a single young woman near the window. She was a pretty blonde - looked quiet.

A closely trimmed beard kept his appearance rugged, his hair with a reddish tint just a little long. His olive cargo pants and gray t-shirt gave him a look of someone who might enjoy the outdoors, while his eyes had a somewhat tired glint to them.

Finishing off his coke, he leaves the money on a counter, along with a nice tip for the cute redhead that had helped him. Heading for the door, he throws another glance in the female customer's direction. But this time, his eyes linger, and his feet stop. His gaze zooms in on the chain hanging around her neck, and the dogtags that were attached. Even from this distance, he could see what the lettering was on one of them and his for a moment, he stands in shock.

Shaking it off, he takes the couple steps to the woman's table and squats down lower than her eye level. His gaze lingers on the dogtags until he looks up at her face, his eyes full of wonder and urgency. "Where did you get those dogtags?"


Back in the kitchen, Carson dries a pan as he looks out onto the floor. Seeing the strange man lower himself by Jess' table, his guard goes up. This man wasn't familiar, and the car outside had out-of-state plates. Carson would bet that Jess did not know him. So who was he and what did he want?

Feeling a bit of protectiveness, Carson sets down the pan and slings the towel over his shoulder, ambling out towards the table. If he was concerned for nothing, he'd just ask Jess if she needed anything else for lunch.

Not a lecture!

Looking back to his own food Dalton takes the last bit before taking the napkin and dabbing his mouth. Listing to Scott's short explanation.

"Yeah I get what your saying. You know you like it but your body doesn't want it. Its so use to going without that, thats normal to it and food is odd to it now. "

Leaning back in the chair again Dalton is quiet for a moment thinking before turning in the chair to look at Scott. Searching his friends thin face he tryed not to be like everyone else, to go around it and not push but was that really the right thing to do?

"I know everyone keeps telling you the same thing, and I know how tired you are of hearing it but you can't give up buddy. God had a reason for you to still be alive, its just not your time. There are people who still need you even if you don't think so. Your parents, Sapphire, Hope. You have come such a long way and to give up now would be a shame."

Letting out a little sigh Dalton's keeps his tone friendly so it didn't feel like he was lecturing Scott at all. He was just a friend who wanted to put some hope back in his friend.

"A lot of people would be sad Scott if you gave up, Me, Hope, Sapphire, Katie Jason, your mom and dad, Domino...we all need you in our life still. Don't give up ok...not yet."

"It's a funny movie. I though it would be suitable for tonight."

Letting Justin take the plate and silverware Beth gives a small smile going back to the stuff on the stove so it wouldn't burn. Turning it off she takes the burgers out of the pan and puts them on a separate plate.

"We can eat at the tale there or it might be a little more comfortable to eat in the living room and start the movie. Either is ok with me so you can pick whole I get the rest of the stuff ready."

A few moments later once the pie is out of the oven and the frys and burgers are on plates Beth brings them into the livingroom setting them on the little table. Going back to the kitchen she grabs the others fixings and refills both there drinks. Before sitting down on the couch and giving a little smile to Justin. This was...differnt but nice at the same time.

Bowing her head Beth gives a little prayer not sure if Justin did the same or not but not wanting to impose and make him think he had to she say the prayer softly before looking up.

"Alright...ding in, save room for pie, and I'll get the movie started when we are ready."

Frustration

Scott grins a little at the joke about the artwork and nods. It would be worth it just to see what Mary said.

Having the Mountain Dew and jerky handed to him, he looks at it for a moment, then gives Dalton a sidelong glance. "So what do we tell Mary about this? It's an artist's lunch?"

Reaching out, his thin fingers spin the can for a moment before taking it and popping the tab. Taking a small sip, he lets the carbonated liquid slide down his throat. The last time he'd had Mountain Dew was when Sapphire had brought him a can. Since then, this eating habit of his, or lack thereof had gone sharply downhill.

Setting the can aside, he reaches for a piece of jerky and just holds it for a moment before nibbling at it. "It tastes good," he admits. "I think... I mean..."

He glances at Dalton again, feeling just a little bit of heat in his face. He felt stupid. "It's hard to explain." His eyes lower and he tries at another nibble. "I think it tastes good but it's like... like my brain doesn't want me to eat it or... or something."

Feeling another churn in his stomach, he sets the jerky aside - probably the first time he hadn't finished a piece. "I don't know if I... if I can do this, Dalton." His finger picks at the edge of his food tray. "With everything with... with trying to control all the other stuff in my brain, it's just... like... crowded and... and..." He stops as he feels the frustration rising. "I just don't know if I can do it."


"Yeah, Ma loves me." Justin grins and accepts the water, taking a sip. "Oooh, french fries too? You have a knack for finding my weaknesses. You'll have to slap my hands so I don't eat too many then run out of room for pie."

Setting down his glass, he moves closer and offers his hands to help with setting the plates and silverware. "Clue, huh? I haven't seen it, so that will be a treat."

De Vinchi

Dalton gives another chuckle as he takes a bit of his food but keeping an eye on Scott as well seeing it really was that hard for him to eat. Dalton couldn't help but wonder if he didn't like eating because the food just didn't taste good anymore, or if it was because his brain told him not to.

"Ya know...it does kinda look like art. Hulk Johnson De Vinchi, thats who made it. They could feature it up there with the Mona Lisa!"

Dalton gives a nod before reaching down into his pocket and pulling out a can of mountain dew and a little bag of Jerky. Leaning forward a little and leaning Scott's way as if looking to see if someone was coming into the room Dalton finally sits up and looks to Scott. Setting the open can on the try, along with the open bag of jerky.

"Thats not healthy for you but it sure it a lot more appealing than applesauce and toast. Don't eat it to fast though or you will get sick."

Dalton gives a smile knowing that one was probably different to Scott now. Someone telling him not to eat fast. Hey at least it was a change up.

As Justin follows Beth into the kitchen she takes a glass and gets some water along with a little ice. Hanging it to Justin and giving a small smile. It felt odd to have someone in her home for the first time, but at the same time it was kind of nice being able to cook for someone else too. It was a new feeling but it was a good one.

Hearing Justin think her place wasn't to mess made her relax a tiny bit. To her it wasn't very clean but than thinking about his house a laugh escapes her lips as she shakes her head a little bit.

"You should wasn't....that....bad? Your poor mom, she just wants you happy."

Turning back to the stove Beth flips the burgers. Her back to Justin she talks a little louder so he could hear her.

"I figured everyone likes burgers and frys so it was the safest thing to make. They are home made too so they should taste a little better as well."

Putting the top back on the pan so the burgers could continue to cook Beth opens the oven to check on the pie and french frys. Closing it again Beth comes over to the counter across from where Justin was standing and grabs some plates along with forks and knives.

"I picked Clue for us to watch. It's a funny movie and one I haven't seen in a while. I hope thats ok with you."

Woman's touch

Receiving the half-teasing chide from Dalton, Scott's face reddens a little as he gives him a sheepish look. "I didn't mean..." His words trail off as he sees the slice of cheese go flying and smack on the wall. Blinking, he turns to look at Dalton, amazed and bewildered. "I knew you didn't like swiss cheese but..."

A new grin curls the corner of his mouth. "At least mine was an accident. Mary's gonna kill both of us now." Smirking, he looks back at his food that was still waiting for him. Impaling his toast with the shovel-end of his spoon, he holds it up and looks at it for a moment before having another tiny nibble from a corner.

Giving up, he lets the slice of bread fall back onto his plate and he sighs. Going back to the applesauce, he finally takes a spoonful but looks at it as if the task of just getting it into his mouth was the hardest thing he'd ever done. It takes several minutes just to gradually eat the one spoonful until he gives up on that too.

Setting down his spoon, he leans back in his pillows, his stomach churning in an odd way. Looking to where the sauce and cheese were still stuck to the wall, he cocks his head. "Art. Definitely art. That's what we'll tell Mary."


Greeted at the door, Justin smiles, sensing Beth was a bit nervous, but he was proud of her for following through with plans. "Mmm... something sure does smell good," he compliments. "Dogs are fine, but I'll take a glass of water, if you've got one."

Passing through the living room, his eyes take in everything, noting the things that matched her personality, and those that perhaps didn't seem to. maybe it was good he came - a person's home could be quite revealing.

"I'll come to the kitchen," he decides. "I wanna see what's cooking." He gives Beth a wink, then directs Danitza and Zora to lie down and stay in the living room. They obey and settle down, knowing that this was not play time.

Following Beth to the kitchen, Justin sees she is hard at work, preparing their meal. It was obvious that she was trying her best to make things nice, and he wonders just how long it's been since she's ever had anyone over...or if she ever had. He didn't know if they were going out to a movie after supper or if they were staying in, but either way, he knew he'd find out.

"Mmm... hamburgers. Good choice." Leaning back against the counter, his gaze roams the kitchen while observing Beth as well. "And by the way, this is as nice place - not messy. You've seen my place." He chuckles. "Ma thinks I need a woman's touch. I say she just needs to close her eyes so she doesn't notice my clutter."