You too

Laughing at the comment about her not axeing him Anastasia holds up her hands and looks at her fingers. Turning them over and looking under the nails before putting her hands down again to take her coffee cup.

"I must of done a good job at cleaning up this time than."

Looking over her coffee cup as she took a sip her eyes sparkled in the light of the coffee shop and danced they way they always did when she was joking around. It was nice having someone who understood her humor and didn't look at her strange. To see someone teasing her back in the same manor.

Letting her cup come down to the table and hearing the tone in Quinn's voice change Anastasia could tell now he was becoming a little more serous in what he was saying to her. Revealing the past, and letting her know another peace about him. Maybe because he might never see her again it was a little easier to not care what one might think.

Hearing Quinn's reason for his brother being in jail Anastasia's expression doesn't change other than a normal blink now and than. She continues to just listen taking everything in, and thinking her own mind. Her eyes only leaving Quinn's face now and than to take a drink of her coffee.

"I guess the first questions would be I have is....did he really do it? That topic can be so touchy and is often used as a way to get out of trouble for one person involved."

Thinking again for a moment Anastasia was quiet again continuing to just think and take everything in. She did feel bad for Quinn in a way with everything he was dealing with right now and the shock of knowing his brother was here was almost like and overdrive for him. But maybe there was a bigger explanation to this picture that right now only one person new.

"You don't want to see your brother but your staying just in case he calls. I think somewhere deep inside for that reason alone, you do want to see him. Out of all the places you could end up next you end up here, in Nevada where your brother happens to be and you just happen to bump into someone who knows him so you can give him your number. Thats a lot of just happens. I think God has a bigger plan here."

Anastasia wasn't sure if Quinn believe in God or not but if he didn't maybe this would be good for him to hear, and if he did maybe it was a good refresher for them both.

"I think a very big picture is being painted here, and it wont be till the end that we understand no matter the outcome. But there is a reason your sitting here in Nevada, found out your brother lives here, are in that booth, sitting across from a woman you never met before. Just don't give up in trusting God and what he has planned. For all we know maybe all he wanted was for you to know your brother is well, met a new friend and find a Ricky Nelson record. Whatever it is, we need to have faith in him on whats happening."

Continuing to look out the window Destiny might of looked like she wasn't listing to anything Jason was saying but she was. The wheels in her mind were turning, trying to make scene of everything as her eyes just watched the passing scenes.

"It feels so empty, yet...full at the same time. I do want to get out of this ditch its just...hard gluing yourself back together."

Finally looking away from the window and turning to Jason Destiny gives a little sigh though there is a little bit of surprise for what Jason had been though as well. She never would of guessed something like that had happened to him. He seemed to have gotten past it, and was doing great now. Did that mean she could too in time?

"I...don't want to be stuck in this hole forever. I just want to start life again and its hard having someone there all the time but...Maybe I can give it just a little while longer till I am feeling better I guess. Everything is just a mess inside me right now."

Things seemed so complicated almost like the last bubbles of life she had been on had poped and now she was drowning. But if she tryed to put some faith in Jason, tryed to mend her wounds with him around could she really get back up onto another bubble?

"Maybe...tomorrow can we go to my parents house? I...still don't know if I am going to sell it or not and I think sitting in the hot tub is a must at this point."

Trying to give a smile as they stop in the mall parking lot Destiny lets out another sigh her eyes still tired, and still full of emotion but she had to at least try right?

"I'll be pashent with me....if...you can be too? I know its hard to be around me right now, but just...don't you leave too.....ok?"

Not the kind of reason

Listening as he drives, Jason sighs.

I want to help her. I try to just be myself but I don't know if myself can cut it.

Jason's mind takes him back to a time that he now didn't like. At the time, he'd thought he was perfectly content. But now he'd come so far that remembering back then was just a little painful. But he pulls up the emotions anyway.

"You know... I hate that feeling. I... have felt that way, Destiny, believe it or not. There was a time I thought I could do everything on my own. I had so much pain built up inside me that I didn't want to have anything to do with anyone else. And at the same time, I... was terribly lonely."

Still thinking as he drives, Jason decides to avoid some traffic, so it would take a few extra minutes to make it to the mall. "You probably don't know that when I was just a little kid, I... was abducted and... held and... abused for about a year." He takes a right at a stop sign. "Didn't think it affected me... didn't want to believe it had. When I got older though, I started to realize that in order to survive, I needed someone to help me. Not... help me like be my therapist but just... someone to be my friend... someone I could talk to and lean on without worrying about what they thought of me. Without worrying about whether or not I was being weak."

Forced to stop at a line behind a red light, Jason steals a glance at Destiny. "Problem is... when finding someone like that, it just hurts all the more because we're forced to think about what's really hurting us. So our reaction is to pull away, and it starts this back and forth tug-o-war that leaves us exhausted until one day... we realize that surrounding ourselves with loneliness is what's hurting us the most."

Pausing, he taps his fingers on the steering wheel, making sure that his emotional stream didn't include audio... if asked later, he wanted to tell the truth that this had been a private conversation. "I'm not upset that you want to be alone, Destiny. I understand that feeling. I'm just upset that you'll let that control you and eventually, hurt you more."

The light turns green and they move again, still headed for the mall. "If you stay in the safe house for a while longer, I'll be there. If you stay and you want changes made, I'll help make it happen so you're the most comfortable. If you want to move back to your own apartment again, I can help set something up so you're still protected for a while. And if you want to move back to your own apartment with no Elite presence, then... there's nothing I can do about it."

The mall was coming up and Jason glances to Destiny once more. "I'm not just trying to keep you safe from physical harm. I care... and I want you to be okay inside, too. But you're the only one who can decide whether or not you want that."

Just a couple more turns and Justin pulls the truck into the mall parking lot and finds a space a ways from the front entrance. Shutting off the engine, he shifts in his seat a little to see Destiny more clearly. His voice becomes softer. "Just be patient with yourself... don't rush to be alone. I know you're stronger than that."


Axel grins as Jess hugs him from behind, and he just watches her as she leans against the counter and looks at him. His eyes lock with hers in a stare so mellow... so cryptic... so full of care.

The beeping microwave interrupts the silent exchange and the evening moves on with popcorn and a movie. Settling in on the couch, the movie plays and the mood is lightened by the comedy.

Two hours later though, the movie was done, but the living room was silent. Axel was stretched out with Jess half on top, half beside him, their legs a tangled mess, one of Axel's arms around her, the other hanging off the couch. He was sound asleep, his chest slowly rising and lowering with each breath, his heart thumping softly under Jess' head.


Quinn laughs at Anastasia's humor, both before leaving the cafe and when they've arrived at the Coffee Bean. She had a wit that matched the sparkle in her eye.

Following her inside and ordering just a cup of black coffee, he joins her at the table, getting comfortable as well. "I have to agree that a good cup of coffee is good for just about any occasion. And... by the way..." He glances at her hands, then back up again. "You don't have blood under your fingernails either. I kinda doubt you would have axed me."

Grinning, he takes a sip of his drink and lets the hot liquid just slide slowly down his throat. Leaning back, he eyes the shop. Five ceiling fans... four paintings on the wall... only one other customer... the lights were nice... the list of today's coffee and sandwich specials looked good. And across from him... His gaze returns to Anastasia... Was a very kind, insightful young woman who had a peace about her that seemed to beckon one's innermost feelings.

Quinn shakes his head and looks down into the almost-black liquid. "Ya know... what you said back there at the other place... about a reason for me finding myself here... It, um..." He pauses, rerouting his train of thought. "You ever been afraid of the reasons for something? Like you knew what the reason was, but it wasn't what you wanted to happen?"

He searches her eyes, knowing now that it was too late to back out. He owed her at least as brief explanation. Besides, she'd been kind to him, showed him around, took time out of her evening to talk with him... he might as well make it worthwhile. "I have a brother," he finally admits. "I haven't see him in about seven years. He was um..." There was no pretty way to put it. "He was sent to prison for raping a girl." Would Anastasia's opinion of Quinn change now? "I haven't seen him since then - thought he was still behind bars. But... I found out today that he's been out and he lives around here."

Quinn takes another sip of coffee, not really even sure why he was sharing any of this with her. But maybe he really did need to just get it off his chest. "I had no idea he was here so I was pretty shocked. Wound up giving my number to someone who will give it to him, should he want to call me but..." He shrugs. "I don't even think I want to see him, so I'm kinda hoping he doesn't call. That's... about the only reason I'm sticking around here for a day or two... because I said I would."

Staring into Anastasia's eyes, he wonders just what type of woman she really was. "It's not the kind of reason I really want to be here. I'd rather the reason be simply that I added to my collection of records. But... my gut tells me otherwise."

Hits the spot

Continuing to look at Jason for a moment Destiny lets out a sigh before turning her head again and looking out the window. Alone...did she really want to be alone? No...the answer was no. She was still scared, but she was even more scared to ask Jason to stay. Did she dare get close to him again?

"I don't want to be alone, not yet. I have the rest of my life for that. But being around people make it all hurt that much more."

Destiny does move her head as she keeps looking out the window her hands in her lap. She didn't look Jason in the eye because she didn't know what she would find. Things seemed so messed up and her emotions so crazy it was hard to sort thought them.

Giving another laugh Jess shakes her head and goes to the cupboard and pulling down two cups. Thank opening the fridge and getting the juice Jess takes them to the other room before retuning again. Slipping behind Axel Jess wraps her arms around him giving him a hug before moving to the counter and leaning against it.

"Juice is all ready, and I think you get the pick the movie today. I did last time."

Jess smiles as her arms are cross over her chest while she looked at Axel. Spending time with him was always the best, and making him feel better made her feel good. The warm fuzzy feeling was always nice and it made her feel special.

"I'm always bold, you just happened to catch me at work and I try my best to be semi decent there, and your far from a murder. There is no blood under your finger nails."

Anastasia gives a small laugh as she takes the last sip of her drink. Hearing Quinn would come with her she gives a nod. The coffee shop wasnt far from here, and it wouldn't take more than five minutes driving.

Heading out and getting into her car Anastasia waits to make sure Quinn if behind her before she pulls out. Seeing him she starts to head down the road. No more than five minutes like she had said they were at the Coffee Bean.

Getting out and waiting for Quinn to join her she give a smile and motions to the shop.

"Really we could of walked but I didn't want you to think I'd axe you in half."

Once inside and sitting at there booth with there coffee Anastasia turns sideways and brings her one leg up on the booth seat in a relaxed position but turned just enough to still see Quinn. It was nice to have someone alone to one of her favorite spots. Some people liked to go out drinking but that wasnt for her. A good cup of coffee was her high. Taking a sip she smiles.

"Now that hits the spot better than anything."

I'll follow

Jason slides in behind the steering wheel and starts the engine, listening to Destiny speak. He disagreed on just about every point, but he bites his tongue. Backing out of the driveway, he keeps his eyes on the mirrors.

"Okay."

It was all he could say without saying something argumentative. Once on the street, he aims the truck to the mall, keeping an eye on traffic and staying alert but not tense.


Grinning as Jess turns around, Axel brings her closer to him. It was rare he let himself fall into something more than soft affection, but tonight he returns the passion through his returned kiss. He lets her break it first, his grin is back as he hears her words. Her kiss to his cheek then his ear bring out a contented sigh as if he'd like to just stand here forever.

"I think... popcorn and juice is a fantastic idea." He pauses. "After once more kiss." Moving back to her again, he kisses her on the lips with passion as his arms tighten around her, cocking his head one way, then the other. Finally though, he breaks away, giving her a last teasing kiss to the neck along with a silly growl.

Releasing his hold on her, he slides over to the cupboard to grab the popcorn. "I'll microwave. You get the juice."


Dark cloud, huh? Am I that obvious?

Well, you must be. Either that, or she's psychic.

Or just insightful.

Just as dangerous.

She just wants some company is all.

Red flag, man. She wants you to talk. You don't want to talk.

Don't I?

Quinn studies Anastasia's face, mulling over her offer in his mind. He knew that it was written all over his face that something was bothering him. But it could be anything. Why did she seem to know it was something that was screaming to be let out?

"Mmm... Getting a little bold, aren't we?" he questions. "I could be some maniac killer or something with dead bodies in my trunk."

Spinning his glass around in his hand, his same faint grin returns to the corner of his mouth, making it quite obvious he was teasing. But what about the offer? She said they didn't have to talk, so he was safe if he wanted to keep his own business to himself. On the other hand, she was a perfect stranger who he'd never see again, so whatever he told her would have no future consequence. Either way, at least he wouldn't have to go back to the hotel yet.

"Alright. I enjoy a good cup of coffee. I'll follow you."

You know!

Giving a little nod to Jason Destiny disapears again for a moment before grabbing her purse. Just standing in her room again the wave washed over her of wanting to be alone, or go out alone, and just cope alone. Destiny hated her feelings and how they went on and off and on again. She had already said she was going thought so she might as well go.

Jason cared about her Destiny new that, she could see it in his eye. She didn't mean to make him worry but she couldn't help how she was feeling either. To be close to someone, yet to push them away.

Exiting the room again and coming into the living room Destiny lets out a sigh and gives a small nod. She was ready, to at least try and have a little fun, or escape her own mind.

"Ok, I'm ready this is all I need."

Heading out of the house Destiny knows the rutean and waits for Jason to saw it was ok before stepping out before him. Though she still though maybe someone would step along side her it didn't happen and she let out a small sigh. It was different now, just...not the same.

Getting into the truck and bucking herself in Destiny leans her head against the seat. Waiting for Jason to get in and start driving. Turning her head a little bit to look at Jason Destiny doesn't move her head from the seat.

"I'm not being stubborn about not having a bodyguard. It's just the Agency is always going to be after me, and I can't have a bodyguard forever. So I might as well deal with it sooner than later."

Feeling Axel behind her while she looked into the fridge. Feeling the kiss on her cheek, and neck and cheek again Jess gives a little giggle as it tickle sending chills up and down her spine. Axel seemed more affectionate tonight not that she minded at all.

Closing the fridge and slipping around so Axel's arms where still around her but she was now facing him Jess smile was bright as her eyes sparkles even more. Leaning in and bringing her lips to his she lets she passion and love for him show deeping it a little more than normal. Finally pulling away she gives a small nod.

"You don't need anything more..."

She leans in for a kiss on this time one his cheek. Than she moves back a little more to his ear giving it a light kiss letting her lips linger just a little bit a whisper escaping.

"...everything you have is perfect."

Drawing away and looking into his eyes for a moment Jess places a kiss on his lips again before biting her own lip a little shyly before speaking again.

"I saw saw popcorn in your cupboard we can have that and some juice while watching the movie."

Continuing to watch Quinn even as he was talking to himself, stopping and starting again, and just having a long stair Anastasia just studys him. It was so easy to see the term oil in his eyes, his heart, and how broken maybe it was being right there.

Thinking to herself about maybe inviting Quinn to stick around a little longer Anastasia could hear her Uncles voice in her head. He's warn her to be safe, and not to trust everyone but something about Quinn told her he was ok.

"Well I don't know about a pointer but I know a great coffee place. We could sit and pour our heart out to a friend, a friend we might never see again about that dark cloud that lays deep in out soul."

Anastasia gives a smile not knowing if Quinn would take her up on it or not. She'd go to the coffee shop herself for a little while and to have company would be nice. If she could help Quinn to or at least remove some of the brick from his back than it was worth it.

"Ha, I guess we don't even have to talk just having someone sit having coffee with me would be nice. "

Reasons

There had to be a reason... maybe that's what scared Quinn the most.

"Can't I live in a dream world for one night?" he asks aloud. His eyes drift back to his glass of soda, not really having meant to sound as pensive as he had.

Looking back up to Anastasia, he grins a little. "Let's just hope the reason was just a good glass of cherry coke and nothing more." Lifting his glass, he gives a toast. "To a relaxing evening... good soda and... to Elvis, may he rest in silent peace."

Winking at her, he sips his pop then scans the room. He didn't feel like going back to the hotel, but this place wouldn't be open all night. He felt like he wanted a continual distraction, and he knew exactly why. He'd been fighting thinking about Axel all evening, and it wasn't any easier now. Going back to the hotel just meant more time to think, and think was what he didn't want to do. His eyes find their way back to Anastasia's, finding them even a little brighter than before. Or maybe he was just noticing them more.

Opening his mouth, he's ready to shoot her a smart comment about being here, or reasons or something, but his heart that was so heavy underneath it all that it just didn't feel possible right now. He'd been ignoring his real feelings around Anastasia all this time, but he was growing tired, and when that happened, his walls grew weaker.

Forcing a chuckle, he shakes his head, realizing he'd been silent, on the verge of saying something, and keeping her waiting. "Sorry. Brain thing, ya know?" Sipping his pop again, he finds that he's reached the ice. Staring down into it, he fought his emotions tooth and nail. Why suddenly it was so hard, he wasn't even sure.

But God's hand at work often goes unrealized until after the fact. Reasons... that's what it was all about.

Reasons... and Quinn didn't want to know, other than leaving town in a day or two... because the reasons for his stumbling on that woman today with the dogtags were what tormented his thoughts now.

Blinking, Quinn shifts in his chair, feeling warm all of a sudden as he realizes he's lapsed into strange silence again. "Guess I'm more tired than I thought." He forces another laugh. "Or maybe someone spiked my coke." He thumbs over to "Elvis." "Never know in a place like this," he teases.

Shaking the ice around, he finally sets his glass aside. "Well, Princes... looks like my reason for coming here has run dry. Unless you've got another pointer for this late hour."


Axel groans as he's pulled up from the couch, but he follows Jess to the kitchen anyway, even if his feet drag. He wasn't hungry, but he hadn't eaten all day so he knew he should.

"Okay. Food first. I'm thinking... munchies. And I got some juice in the fridge." He leans over Jess' shoulder from behind, wrapping his arms around her waste and kissing her cheek. "Or tea." He kisses her neck. "Or water." He kisses her cheek again and smiles. "Now I wish I had more than that."


Jason looks up from the desk in the corner of the living room, surprised that Destiny was out and even talking to him. She'd become so quiet that he'd finally given up on conversations. And quite honestly, he was frustrated with the way things had been going lately - he and Reese both. Jason didn't like Destiny's stubbornness to rip herself loose from the Elite, but there wasn't much he could do about it. If she was going to stay angry, then there was nothing he could say. He'd already tried and so had Reese. Soon the week would be up and Jason's job would be over here. But that didn't mean he was happy about it.

Hearing Destiny wanted to go to the mall was an additional surprise. It wasn't the safest place in the world, but if she was willing to get out and get some fresh air, Jason didn't want to stop her.

"Yeah, okay... I think we can do that."

Shutting off the computer screen, he gets up to gather a few things. "Get whatever you need - I'm ready when you are."

Days Pass

Stopping and looking up at Reese her eyes search his face, and watch his hand over her his. His words seeping into her skin. She heard them, understood them, and took them in but would they change her mind, no...she didn't want to be in this situations anymore.

"I appreciate everything you have done for me. Helped me when I asked and didn't turn me away. I'll give the bodyguard one more week than I am on my own again."

Anger...maybe thats the only thing that was keeping her going right now. The anger drowning the pain a bit keeping her from completely losing it. She lost her family, she lost someone else close to her and not from death maybe thats why it hurt so much. To know Chance was still alive but she'd never see him again. Why did she still even care about him after everything?

"If you see Jason let him know I'm around here somewhere and I am ready when he is."

Letting out a small sigh Destiny leaves the office and heads down the cubicles getting to the once empty office she liked to spend time in and just be alone.

All around me are familiar faces
Worn out places, worn out faces
Bright and early for their daily races
Goin' nowhere, goin' nowhere
Their tears are fillin' up their glasses
No expression, no expression
Hide my head I want to drown my sorrow
No tomorrow, no tomorrow

And I find it kind of funny
I find it kind of sad
The dreams in which I'm cryin'
Are the best I've ever had
I find it hard to tell you
'Cause I find it hard to take
When people run in circles
It's a very, very
Mad world, mad world

Another day come and gone Destiny sits in the kitchen of the safe house looking out the black sliding doors. A book in her hands that she was hardly reading. The rain pelting the windows and soft drumming sound almost seemed soothing, almost if it wasn't for the memories on this back porch.

The images played through her mind, Chance's warning, her not caring, and kissing him anyways. Thats night it had been so nice, everything just seemed to fall together. He had warned her...maybe this way her own fault? NO...He should of told her about her parents, but he didn't. He still liked...why...did she care still?

Children waitin' for the day they feel good
Happy birthday, happy birthday
Made to feel the way that every child should
Sits and listen, sits and listen
Went to school and I was very nervous
No one knew me, no one knew me
Hello teacher tell me what's my lesson?
Look right through me, look right through me

And I find it kind of funny
I find it kind of sad
The dreams in which I'm cryin'
Are the best I've ever had
I find it hard to tell you
'Cause I find it hard to take
When people run in circles
It's a very, very
Mad world, mad world

And so the days continue to pass, slow, drawn out...and those she new Jason was trying to help her mood it did help a little. But she was just counting down the days when she could just go home and start to heal.

Continuing to flip the channels on the TV Destiny looks for something to watch going through them another two times. Finally giving a frustrated sigh Destiny turns the tv off and gets up. Going into the kitchen and grabbing a bottle of water she pass through the living room.

Giving a jump and stopping dead in her tracks she think she see Chance, but realizing it was in fact still Jason she shakes her head a little bit letting out a sigh.

"I'm going to head to bed. Nite Jason."

Heading slowly down the hall and shutting the door behind her Destiny flops down on the bed just letting the tears come once again.

I find it kind of sad
The dreams in which I'm cryin'
Are the best I've ever had
I find it hard to tell you
'Cause I find it hard to take
When people run in circles
It's a very, very
Mad world, mad world
Mad world, mad world

Exiting her room it was another day. The same as the last, nothing really going on and staying around the house was just driving her crazy. Jason said they could go somewhere if she wanted and it was her own doing to keep inside. She just, felt better that way but today maybe going out would be good.

"Jason?...Can we go to the mall today and walk around?"

The mall...why did she pick the mall? She didn't know but its where she wanted to go. A change to what she did everyday now. Maybe getting up and out would help her feel better!

Looking back at Axel Jess nuzzles her head into his had a little bit. They were rough but is was a sign he worked for a living, earning his money and not taking the easy way. There were also hands that said he could protect her.

"I'm happy you were willing to hold out your hand to me."

Jess gives a smile giving him another kiss before sitting up and swinging her legs off the couch and standing. Helping Axel up as well pulling him slowly.

"Maybe we should find something to eat first and than watch a movie?"

Continuing to watch Quinn as the quiet seemed to linger words still seemed to flow even if they were silent. The look in his eyes showed there was much more to him than what was on the outside.

"So your a vagabond. Thats kind of cool. Hard life, but if its what you like why boke it right?"

Anastasia gives another sip of her drink letting the chilled liquid slide down her throat quenching her thirst, and adding a little more sugar to what she already had. Continuing to just study Quinn she couldn't help it. He was so mystery and that just added to his handsome looks.

"Well, that might be true about not staying long, but there has to be a reason you found yourself here or else this conversation never would of happened. Maybe it was simply...to have a nice time and find Ricky Nelson. You better treat him right."

She flashes a grin that seemed to light up her face a little bit as her eyes still twinkle. God had a reason for everything that was for sure. Uncle Chuck always reminded her that when she got down. We met people for a reason even if only for a little bit. It could be that one meeting that changed there life forever!

The future to come

Reese purses his lips, seeing that Destiny was growing agitated. He wouldn't change his mind though. Not after they'd already messed up so badly.

"Destiny..." He gets her attention, and motions her to stop pacing. "I understand your desire to get back to your own place, be on your own and start again. And you may not understand this now, but what goes on inside of you is much more important than your outside circumstances." He searches the young woman's face, desiring only to help.

He taps over his heart. "In here... this is where it starts. If you can't be free in here at the safe house, you can't be free anywhere else either. I understand that a change of scenery can help and that you're frustrated with your situation. But you're running on a lot of anger right now, and that will only lead to rash decisions. Ultimately, I can't force you to have a bodyguard. But please... you have to be patient and you have to be wise. Singling yourself out is just inviting the Agency to interfere again."


Quinn chuckles and shakes his head. "Amazing, I am not. But I'm no stranger with the stage either."

For a brief moment, his mind takes a detour to many years before when he and Axel had begun singing together - nothing big like a band or anything, just family events or little parties. They had had a lot of fun though, and it was those experiences that had driven Quinn's interest in singing onstage. It never had evolved much, but maybe one day.

During the moment, his eyes again hold that strange, darker gaze that revealed there was much below the surface. He smiles at Anastasia though, bringing himself back to the present. Cocking his head a little, he shrugs. He didn't mind talking with Anastasia and telling her about these things... he'd never see her again anyway, so there was no harm. "I started out on the street corner with my guitar... now I just try to find gigs on the road... usually wind up in bars. Not my cup of tea but it keeps gas in my tank. Every once in a while someone likes me and invites me to a nicer setting, but it's rare."

Twirling his glass in his hand, he finally takes another sip. "I probably won't stick around here too long though." His eyes drift up to hers, soft... cryptic... deep... warm. "There are just some places that you know you were only supposed to pass by." He never should have stopped at that restaurant earlier. "But at least I got a new Ricky Nelson record, right?"


Feeling loved helped soothe Axel's emotions. He'd been let down by his own family... but he did have true friends, and one of them was right here, accepting him along with all his faults.

Returning Jess' kisses, his arms tighten around her. "I love you too, Jess," he whispers. "I don't even remember what it felt like not to have this hole in my heart filled."

Brushing aside some stray strands of hair, he kisses her again, remaining so soft and gentle, as if kissing a rose that might crumble if he was too harsh. His touch was like velvet, as if touching something so precious he would never want to break it.

Breaking away, he rests his forehead against hers, just looking into her eyes... those eyes that held so much. She had come such a long way from when he'd first seen her down at Mom and Pop's. She'd looked so weary, torn by people she thought she could trust, and beaten down by the world. Now she had blossomed, becoming more beautiful every day, inside and out. Axel had witnessed her heart turn towards God and he was overjoyed she was taking those steps in the right direction. Oh, for the day when she would seal that commitment... when she would be ready to become a true part of that family... it was a day Axel waited for with hope and faith as he stood and watched her grow. It was a day he prayed for and awaited... for then he would truly be able to commit to her and what the future might hold for them together.

Those eyes... he searches them, a peace entering his heart, despite his own inner turmoil right now. Surely God had not brought her into his life, only to make it impossible. No... he just needed to be patient and wait for the future to come.

Sitting in the quiet was something Axel so often did... he and Jess both seemed to know that it didn't mean one didn't care or that the silence was meant to be boring... but so much more was said when no words were spoken.

"I love watching you dance near the flame," he comments softly, remembering back to one of their first real conversations. His rough palm cradles the side of her face and he sighs before kissing her one last time. "Help me get up and watch a movie or something... otherwise, I'm just gonna lie here and wallow all night."

Done this before

Crossing her arms over her chest Destiny lets out a long sigh. No she didn't want to wait another week, she didn't want to take anymore time out of anyone's life, she just...wanted to be left alone. Bit seeing the look in Reese eyes she new she wouldn't change his mind even if she wanted too.

"No its not Jason being a guy thats bothering me. I don't see him much anyways. I just want to start my life again and I'm tired of having someone looming over my shoulder. Home is where I should be trying to peace my life together."

Letting out another sigh Destiny turns from the desk to pacing a little bit. Things were so messed up, some time alone would be nice. Shaking her head and stopping again Destiny looks to Reese again though her look was a lot different now one could see she was a little irritated. Reese was trying to look out for her and she was thankful even if she didn't seem it. She was just ready to move on alone.

"Fine one week, and not a day more. Than I start picking up the peaces of my life."

Anastasia gives a laugh seeing the competitive look in his eye. She thought he was pretty funny, and seeing him get railed up was part of the fun and she was enjoying it.

"I'll clap if its good. Now go kick some butt.'

Giving a grin and nodding to Quinn Anastasia sits up a little straighter. Leaning on the table a little and bringing her drinks to her lips she listens. Hearing how good he really sounded Anastasia was surprised. Continuing to listen Her head nods to the song and she enjoys it.

Looking her eyes with Quinn's her smile grows even more not looking away from him. Taking another sip of her drink Anastasia gives a little whistle to Quinn approving of his performance. Once he was done Anastasia stands and gives a loud clap before sitting down again another whistle coming from her lips.

Hearing his last statement Anastasia's grin grows even bigger. She really had showed the other Elvis up and done a darn good job at it.

"Yes I am satisfied now, thats was wonderful. I bet you've done that before. Your voice is amazing sounding."

"I know you are Axel and thats normal. I won't leave you though no matter what I know who you are and thats the guy I care about."

Jess gives a smile as Axel kiss all over her face. It was soft and light and felt so nice to let the love softly wash over her. Being wrapped in his arms Jess felt safe now as she always did.

"I'm everything you deserve and your everything I've ever wanted. I love you the way you are. You haven't disappointed me yet and I doubt you ever will."

Returning the kiss to Axel Jess just gives back her light passion. She was happy to give back to Axel letting him know she was there. She'd always be there for him.

Performance

Reese listens to Destiny, playing with a pen as his mind mulls everything over. Once she's stopped, he looks up at her intently. The Elite had failed on this one. Destiny was still alive... but only in body. And Reese felt to blame. If he'd simply had one of his own men take on the bodyguard job, this wouldn't have happened.

"I'm sorry, Destiny. For everything. I wish I could go back and make some different decisions so that none of this would have happened."

Sighing, he pauses to look down at his desk calendar, then back up again. "I'm going to ask you to give it one more week at least. It's... only been a few days since all of this and... it's a vulnerable spot to be in. I know that nothing has happened with the Agency, other than at the funeral, but if I let you go now and something happened, I'd never be able to forgive myself. As far as taking up my men's time, that's for me to worry about, not you. This is our job, Destiny... this is what we do and it's just as important as anything else around here, if not more. You are important."

He studies her a moment, wishing there was more he could say. Were there any other reasons for her wanting to be out of the safe house? "Are you uncomfortable with a male bodyguard? If you are, I can have Katie take over instead of Jason."


"Me? Scared of a crowd? You kidding?" Quinn quirks one eyebrow, a wry grin appearing on his lips. If only she knew. "I just don't want to upstage Elvis there."

Turning back to the stage though, he cringes again as another flat note is sung. "Or maybe I should just so people don't get up and leave. I'm not doing Elvis though." He grins again. "That would just make the poor fellow feel even worse."

Quinn shakes his head. Karaoke? What was he thinking? But hey... no one knew him, he'd never be back again, and who cared? At least it was a distraction, right?

As "Elvis" comes to an over-dramatic finish, Quinn rolls his eyes at Anastasia. "Alright, I can't take it anymore. They've gotta hear at least one good song tonight."

Taking a swig of pop, he gets up and points a finger at her. "You better clap."

Before he knew it, he was up onstage, mic in hand, looking out at the people - some too busy chatting to pay attention, and some seeming skeptical of this newcomer. He grins though, feeling rather at home up here. After choosing a song, he grabs a stool and sits down, one foot tucked up on a bar while the other rested on the stage floor.

Finding Anastasia, a little smile seeps out. It was a slower rock song he'd chosen, but a powerful one and one that many would recognize. As he starts to sing, it becomes very apparent that this is not the first time he's had a microphone in his hand. His voice is mellow and controlled, following the music well and never hitting a sour note.

Falling into the music, he lets his eyes close, drifting to a place he always did while he sang... it was a place of peace... it was his place... his haven.

As the song winds down, he gazes out and finds Anastasia again, his voice holding the last sweet note until the very end. Lowering the mic, that little faint grin returns as the people clap for his performance. Making it offstage again and ignoring all the attention, he ambles back to the table and sits down, casually taking a sip of his pop again. "Satisfied?"


Axel sighs and nods a little. Knowing that Quinn had been wearing the dogtags did present a mystery. If he was out to make trouble or had rejected Axel completely, it wouldn't fit that he was wearing the tags.

Axel knew he needed to call Quinn. It was the right thing to do. He could feel it in his gut. He was just...

"I'm scared," he whispers. Not all that long ago, he'd been ready to raise a stink and find a way to clear his name and prove his innocence. But things had calmed down, his friends had accepted him, he'd kept his job and he'd just moved past everything instead. But what if Quinn's presence brought back the nightmare? What if he raised questions in people's minds again?

Axel's hand moves up to softly brush Jess' cheek as he looks into her eyes. At least he wasn't alone this time, and he had her promise on that. Moving his face closer, he kisses her nose, then her eyes gently, a final kiss landing on her forehead. "You're more of a friend than I deserve... thank you."

Not Scared

Standing in Reese office Destiny looks out the small window. It had been a few days now since everything went down. Destiny was still not herself the dark cloud hanging over her heart and following her around. They hadn't seen hide or hair of the Agency and Destiny just want to move on with life, get out of that safe house and not be reminded of everything.

Her hands absentmindedly going to the chain around her neck her fingers running over the curves and shapes. She could leave, but she'd always remember...Chance plagued her mind now.

"I think its safe for me to go now Reese. We haven't seen any sigh of the Agency in days and I can't keep taking up anymore of your men's time. I'll be alright, and if I even think the Agency is close again I'll call you."

Destiny turns from the window and comes back to one of the chairs in Reese office. Her eye held dark circles under them that maybe sleep was filled with nightmares. Destiny's shoulders just not as high. Her spirit, her heart they had been broken and where the peaces were she hardly even new.

But life had to move on even if she had to force herself. Time didn't stop and Destiny couldn't take have to keep Jason there anymore when he should be out with his girl. Alone...once feared....seemed so welcoming now.

Hearing everything Axel said Jess gives a small nod so she was listing. Axel had told her the store of his brother once before well letting her know what had happened in his past. But still now she didn't mind he told her again. She new it was hard for him but she was there to comfort him.

Once he was done talking Jess thinks for a moment little a silence settle again. She didn't know exactly how Axel felt because though she had her problems and things she delt with it was much different from this. But hearing the pain in his voice was enough to show anyone how they were feeling.

"I'm sorry all that happened with the person closest to you. I can only imagine how much it must have hurt."

Shifting a little on the couch Jess turns so she was no looking at Axel her arm resting across him and up on his chest playing with the logo on the shirt. Looking up at him again it was easy to read her own emotion that she was sorry he felt this way.

"Axel, you brother was wearing the matching dogtags to yours. It has to mean something that all this time, after everything he still kept them close to him. Maybe the past is in the past, and he came to tell you he was sorry."

Silent again for a moment Jess lets out a small sigh searching for the right words in her own mind.

"I can't even imagine how you feel Axel, but I know you always do what is smart, or the right thing. If you do want to call your brother I can give you the number and I wont leave you to face it alone because your not anymore. But if you don't want to call him I can toss the baby and I wont think anything less of you. Maybe at least hearing him out or why he is here though wouldn't be a bad thing.

Ah so Quinn was only passing thought.Where he came from, where he was going, or how long he really was still staying was still a mystery. But maybe it was that mystery that drew her to him.

Having her how thought process stopped by the sound of a very bad Elvis Anastasia turns her head slightly to see how was on the stage. Not knowing who they were she turns back to Quinn giving her head a little bit of a shake. Looking down at her own drink she cringes a little.

"Oy, at least the pop is good."

Catching the comment about doing better than the guy up there Anastasia now had a peaked interest of what Quinn did sound like up there and a smile curls on her lips.

"Why don't you get up there and show me how much better than him you are. You not scared of crowds are you?"

Anastasia was a teasing jeer yet a question herself she didn't know. Not to mention just to get Elvis off the stage there would be great. Her eyes look into Quinn's dancing with his the sparkle glitters.

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?"