Hurt

Katie's response was all Hunter needed to know. If asked, he might not have an answer as to why he felt so strongly about helping Katie. Maybe it was because it felt good to do something right for once. Maybe because he had a soft spot not many people saw. Maybe it was because if he really thought about it, she'd helped him in more ways than she knew by simply spending some time with him, and he wanted to return the favor. Whatever his reasoning, he respected her current wishes and would stick to his word. 

Unlocking then opening the door only partway, Hunter keeps his foot against the inside edge to prevent it from being pushed open any farther. His body moves into the opening as an immediate signal that no one was welcome to enter. "Jason." 

Jason is a bit taken back by the defensive stance but he nods. "Hunter. Is Katie here?" 

"She is." 

"May I see her?" 

"No." 

Jason blinks. No? Just like that? "Excuse me?" 

Hunter straightens a little, leaning one arm on the door frame while his other hand remains on the door handle. "She doesn't want to see you, Jason." His tone remains cool and calm. "I advise you to leave."

Jason's eyes narrow as theories he didn't like started to enter his mind. "She was here all night, wasn't she?" Accusation laced his tone. "If you so much as-"

Hunter interrupts him. "Chill. We didn't do anything. But she doesn't want to see you, so please... leave." 

Jason folds his arms, now starting to feel desperate. Was this really, truly it? Katie had said it was over but... but it was true? She still didn't believe him that there was nothing between him and Sandy? It was just... over? Like that? "I want to talk to her," he states flatly. 

"Well I'm sorry, but you can't." 

"Let me in!" Jason steps forward to push Hunter out of the way and catches just a glimpse of Katie in the kitchen before he's shoved back into the hallway. With adrenaline pumping and pain in his eyes, he stares back at Hunter. "This isn't over."

Hunter shakes his head. Being pushed around had raised his irritation several notches, and his new tone proved it. "Actually, it is. You've caused enough damage here - how about stopping before somebody gets any more hurt, huh?" 

"I-" 

"I'm serious." Hunter stares him in the eye. "Katie wants nothing to do with you. You have ignored her, hurt her, and betrayed her trust. She told you it was over and she meant it. Take it from me - she wasn't kidding." 

Pain. Oh, how Jason hated this feeling that seeped into his emotions. For several seconds, he simply looks at Hunter, feeling stupid and hurt. Without saying any more, he finally turns and leaves, taking the stairs faster than his knee would have liked. 

Heaving a sigh, Hunter closes and locks the door once more. He'd never admit it, but he was glad Jason hadn't tried any more to force his way in - Hunter could street brawl, but he wasn't so sure he wanted to take on a trained Elite agent, let alone one the size of Jason. 

Coming back into the kitchen, he slowly sits across from Katie again, his eyes roaming her face. "You okay?" he asks gently. 

Jared nods a little, hoping that Grace was right. Was he really getting a second chance? And yet, what good was it when he couldn't even remember everything he needed another chance for? It was confusing, frustrating and... 

His thoughts drift off as Grace pats his hand and he looks down at it for a moment. Turning his palm up so her hand rested in his, his fingers curl around hers just slightly. "Thanks... for believing in me." 

He looks up at her again, truly thankful. "You better be careful though... keep being so nice and I'm liable to start seeing you as more than my therapist." 

Was he kidding? Or was there truth there? Perhaps only he knew the answer. 

"Nope." Eric shakes his head at Stacy. "Not unless.... there would happen to be an invitation to some bodyguard around here to walk with her on her rounds... but then again, I'm moving extra slowly today, so that invitation might not come anyway... that is... if someone like that actually even exists in the first place."  His eyes twinkle, and a teasing grin quirks the edges of his mouth.

Smelling the apple pie, Dylan's mouth waters and he nods. "Yes, please..." Once taking a bite, he murmurs his appreciation to Faith. "Mm... you're right.... this definitely didn't come from a box." He nods again. "Ya know... my sister tried to make a pie once... I think it was probably close to your grilling..." He lifts an eyebrow. "Don't tell Dan though - he might change his mind about her."

Listing to Jared Grace gives a small nod here and there. She could see why the whole thing had bothered Jared and she felt bad. Not being able to remember and than being told how horrible you were to someone she could only imagine the feelings there.

   "Well he probley came to visit because your still his brother and he loves you."

Grace's tone was very soft still but very matter of fact. Justin had to love Jared if he was coming to see him and maybe something inside Justin was yurning for a connection with his brother. This could be his second chance that he didn't want to miss. But that was only a guess on her part.

   "Just because you were a horrible brother in the past doesn't mean you still have to be now. You could always make up for lost time. Sometimes we are handed second chances...this could be yours you know?"

Grace reaches out and gives Jared's hand a gentile pat. She new this was hard for him but he wasn't alone and she wanted him to know that. Anyone could do something they put there mind to no matter what there past was scared with.

Giving a small smile and taking another bite of her toast Katie was thankful for Hunter's friendship. No matter what anyone had to say about it. He was nice, he was sweet, he'd never tried anything with her and all there time spent together was innocent. Katie had never felt like it was anything but that or she would of stopped seeing him.

About to say something the knock at the door startles her as she looks that way and than back to Hunter. Was it one of his friends? Would she be intruding here? Katie didn't know but she just stayed seated. 

Hearing it was Jason her heart raced. How did he know she was here? and Why was he here. The thought of yesterday came back all to soon. She'd told him to leave her alone they were over and yet..there he was. Did he not get the point she wanted space, she didn't want to talk she was still mad at him.

   "No, I don't want to see him."

And she didn't...just the thought almost put tears in her eyes again. She was still hurting from the whole thing and she still felt all messed up. She just wanted to be left alone, and she wanted to try and deal with this than move on. Jason was not making it easy on her at all.

Giving her own little laugh Stacy shakes her head. She had no idea what her daughter was thinking but she had a feeling it had to do with yesterday. Though she would never call her on it so she just lets the conversation change once again.

   "Yes, Yes the food does smell good for sure."

Glancing over at Eric as he takes his hat off Stacy can't help but let her grin grow again. He did look good with his hate off. Stacy's eyes search Eric's for a long moment she wondered where they were now. Were they still just friends, were they more...it all felt confusing.

   "So...any plans tonight?"

   "Uh huh...sure you don't know I baked an apple pie thats cooling on the stove."

Faith gives a smile as she stands and gathers the empty plates along with a few other things before disappearing into the kitchen. Coming back a few moments later she had some little plates and forks along with the water pitcher to refill everyone than leave once again with the pie.

   "Freshly baked, and its real not a frozen one. Would you like a slice too Dylan?"

Unwanted Visitor

"Hey, Jase, this is Ryder."

Jason turns his sights from his computer to concentrate on his cell phone. "Yeah, what is it?"

"Sorry to call you at work, I just... well, it probably isn't any of my business but I'd feel bad if something happened and I hadn't said anything."

Jason sits a little straighter. "What's up?"

"Well... did Katie spend the night at your place or anything?"

"What? No." Jason furrows his brow. She certainly hadn't. She hadn't even answered his texts, which bothered him to no end. There was no reason she wouldn't have gotten them, and she'd never not answered him before. He'd opted not to try calling her, and had been waiting for her to get to work so he could talk to her, but so far she hadn't shown up. "Why do you ask?"

"She didn't come home last night. I guess I was just a little worried. I know she wasn't on any cases or anything so I figured I'd check with you first, but if she wasn't at your place..."

Jason's alertness heightens. He and Katie were having problems, but that certainly didn't mean he didn't care. "Do you have any other ideas?"

"Not really. She usually lets me or Thirteen know just 'cause she's nice, so it's a little odd she wouldn't say anything. I mean, I don't know if we should be worried or not, it just seemed strange."

"Yeah." It was strange. Katie was usually consistent with letting her roommates know where she'd be, simply to avoid things like this. This wasn't like her. Jason stands from his desk. "Did you try calling her?"

"Yeah, that's the first thing I did. Got her voice mail like her phone was off. Left her a message but so far she hasn't called back."

"Alright. I think I'll snoop around. It might be nothing, but I'll check into it anyway."

"Okay. Let me know, will ya?"

"Sure." Hanging up, Jason sighs. He hadn't always liked Ryder, but he had to admit that the Aussie was a good guy. "Where are you, Katie?" he asks aloud. First she'd ditched the concert all upset, and now she was missing. Coincidence? Foul play? Though he was a little worried, Jason forces himself to not let this get blown out of proportion. There was surely a logical explanation and Katie was fine...

...Katie wasn't at TJY. She hadn't been seen since leaving work the day before. All the normal hangout places were dry.

It hadn't taken Jason long to put the pieces together. By the time he was across town, it was mid-morning and he'd talked to plenty of people and made several phone calls. His last tip had led him to Micky's where it was confirmed Katie had been there with Hunter and they'd been seen leaving together - with Katie tipsy no less. Katie? Drinking? Let alone too much? Jason couldn't believe it. But why would anyone lie?

Getting to Hunter's apartment building, Jason spots Katie's car and his heart sinks a little. What was going on? Finding out which apartment was Hunter's, he heads up the stairs and down the hall. Stopping in front of the door, he takes a deep breath before knocking. He didn't like Hunter, and hoped that there was nothing going on here. Surely Katie hadn't pulled some stupid stunt. Although she'd been drunk and that was stupid enough. What was she thinking? And why had she come here?

Hunter was glad to see Katie looking a little better. He was sure she still felt like crap, but at least her eyes were a bit brighter after cleaning up. 

He chuckles softly and shakes his head. "It's not my style to take advantage of a girl who just needs a friend."  He raises his coffee cup to her and nods. "But you're welcome."

He's about to ask her what she's planning for the day, when a knock at the door interrupts them. He quirks an eyebrow as he rises from the table. Who would have come here? Nobody ever came here. 

Getting to the door, he looks out the small hole before withdrawing slowly. He didn't like this. At all. The last thing he wanted was to get in the middle of a love spat, but he wasn't about to make Katie fend for herself either. Looking over his shoulder to the kitchen, he purses his lips. "It's Jason. Do you want to see him? I'll let him in if you do, but if not, I'll have him leave." He'd leave it up to her. 


The outside air felt even better than Jared had imagined it would. While he'd hated being cooped up, he'd also grown accustomed to the stuffy, sterile hospital air. The garden was like a little oasis, and he was grateful for Grace once again being so thoughtful.

Set beside the bench, he takes a deep breath of air. Some things were still a bit sore, and he was so used to laying in bed, that it hurt just a bit to fill his lungs so full, but he didn't care. Studying some purple flowers beside him, he doesn't raise his eyes even when Grace asks him how he is.

"I was glad you forgot," he mumbles. Reaching over, he touches a soft flower petal, enjoying the feeling under his fingertip. He really thought the garden was pretty. Had he always enjoyed flowers? That didn't make him weird, did it?

Finally looking to his other side at Grace, he sighs. "I'm alright. Just had a visit from Justin earlier and he finally told me why we didn't get along." He shrugs. "Now I kinda wish I hadn't pressed it."

His fingernail picks at the armrest of the wheelchair. "I guess I knew it was me all along I just... hoped it wasn't, ya know?" His eyes find Grace's, his stare dark and far away. "Hard to believe I was mean enough to blame him for our dad dying. Apparently I never got over it, even after all these years. I was a horrible brother... I'm surprised Justin's been visiting me at all."

Eric stifles a laugh, but for Ashlee's sake, he doesn't press the issue. While he'd spent time with her today, they hadn't talked about yesterday at all - although he did want to ask her sometime if she minded if he dated her mom. He just wanted to make sure first that he and Stacy really were going to before he said anything to Ashlee. However... it was pretty obvious that she had some ideas of her own, of which for now, would remain hidden. 

"Yeah... the food does smell good." Settling back, he hangs his hat on an empty chair and elbows Stacy. "Doesn't it?"

A grin spreads on Dylan's face and something almost close to a chuckle comes out too. "It's gotta be bad for the dogs not to eat something." 

"Well..." Sparky intervenes, humor dancing in his eyes. "They don't like hockey pucks any more than anybody else." 

Dylan snickers and takes another bite of roast beef, finding that he'd finished his helping. 

Sparky watches him for a moment before glancing to Faith and giving her a nod. It was a small gesture, but he knew that she would read his thoughts - he was glad Dylan had come, glad to see the boy relaxing, and happy that they could provide this quiet evening. Dylan had a long ways to go yet, but he'd also come far. 

"You going to that auction this weekend?" 

Sparky was a little surprised at the change in topic, but nods again. "Yeah. Mick wanted me to check out some stock."

Dylan crunches on an ice cube. "Doesn't he usually do that himself?" 

"Mm-hmm. But the farrier is coming that same day and he'd rather be here." 

"Oh." The wheels in Dylan's mind continue to turn. "Can I go with you?" 

Sparky's eyebrows rise. "Well sure... if you want to. I don't have a problem with that."

"Okay. Good." 

When the subject is dropped again, Sparky looks back to Faith and shrugs He had no idea why his nephew was interested in going, but he wouldn't complain. Scraping the last bit of food off his plate, he smacks his lips in satisfaction. "Ya know, the only thing that could make this meal any better would be a slice of apple pie... but I don't know where we'd find one of those..."

Ask for more

   "Alright, thanks. I am gonna run out to my car quick and grab the extra set of cloths I have in there."

Standing Katie wobbles a little. She wasn't drunk still but she felt a little woozy and shaky. She could only guess that was the doing of the alcohol too. Steadying herself she looks back to Hunter with a sorry sort of grin on her face.

   "Ok, maybe not run but you know what I meant."

Going outside to her car Katie squints in the sunlight. She felt crappier than she ever had before. IF this was what happened after people got drunk why did they like doing it so much? It sucked and wasn't her idea of fun.

Heading back inside and going to the bathroom Katie takes a quick shower. Once she was done she did feel a little better. At least the lingering smell of booze wasn't on her still. That was enough to have made her sick just smelling it.

Leaving the bathroom and heading into the kitchen the coffee smelled good seeing the toast too she gives a little smile. She really wasn't hungry but maybe putting a little something in her stomach would help calm it. And that Hunter put that into consideration made her smile a little more. 

   "Thanks Hunter...for everything. I might not remember everything from last night but I remember enough. Thanks for honoring your word about being a gentile too. That really means a lot and I appreciate it."

Sitting down and taking a sip of the hot liquid it felt good going down. Though it caused her stomach to churn it still felt good so she took another sip before a nibble of her toast.

Continuing to push Jared down the hall Grace was happy he'd said yes to her. He'd never know it but getting out would also help with his recovery and it would help him from falling deeper into depression. That was something she wanted to avoid at all costs.

   "No not always, but it was to nice to sit at home and it was to nice to sit in a room so I just though you might enjoy getting out as much as I did. Consider yourself lucky."

Grace smiles and nod to one of the nurses who opened the door for her leading to the back gardens. Pushing Jared down the walk way Grace aims for a stone bench that was surrounded by flowers. Parking him close by she sits down on the warm stone.

   "Now this is much better dont you think? How are you today anything? I think I forgot to ask."

 Looking up quickly again at Eric and her mom Ashlee continues to just looks back and forth between them her eyes slightly wide. She couldn't tell him what she was thinking...no way. Her mom would kill her too. 

   "Hummm...nothing?"

Looking back down again Ashlee had to think of something quick before he asked anymore questions and she had to answer them. Just picking something random off the top of her head she new Eric would know there was something more going on in her head but maybe he wouldn't ask.

   "Boy...dinner sure does smell good huh?"

Looking over at Dylan Faith smiles and shakes her head. She was happy Dylan liked the idea of a little cookout. It would be nice to have family there and to get to know them all a little better. Faith wanted to be closer to Sparkys family even if she new it was hard. But she new that going into the whole thing and all the mattered was that Sparky cared for her.

   "He definitely does not. That's why I let Tyler do the grilling. I tired once and well....the dog wouldn't even eat it."

Giving a smile and taking a sip of her iced tea Faith looks to Sparky her eyes twinkling. She enjoyed life here so much, and she enjoyed even more being married to him. Life was quiet for them and while at one point she had wanted kids, now she was happy just the two of them and her plans for life had changed. Now they got each other, and had the chance to watch all the little ones at the ranch grow. She could never ask for anything more.

  

Bored?

Hunter moves over a little so Katie can sit up, and he gives her a wry grin. "Let's just say you had enough to make me tipsy and you downright shnockered." He gives her leg a pat. "Don't worry... by this afternoon you'll be as good as new." 

Standing again, he gestures to the hallway. "Bathroom's right down the hall. There's a couple clean towels... the rest I'm sure you can figure out. I'm gonna go make some coffee." He'd like to know how she was feeling this morning, as far as Jason went, but he doesn't ask. Not now. He'd just give her some space. 

Wandering to the kitchen, he starts a pot of coffee, cleans some dishes he hadn't done for two days, then makes some toast. He knew Katie wouldn't feel like eating, but he'd try to get her to eat a little something mild anyway. 

With a bit of food on the table, he sits in the kitchen and sips his coffee, just quietly thinking and waiting for Katie. 

Just getting out of bed and attempting to stand was exhausting in itself. Though frustrated he couldn't stand without the aid of two male nurses, Jared knew he shouldn't expect any more than that, and he was at least glad he was given the chance to try.

Finally in the wheelchair, though tired, he was too glad to be getting out of his room to even think about resting. Nodding to Grace, he agrees. "The garden sounds nice." 

As he's being pushed along the hall, he looks up and over his shoulder. "So... do you always come here on your days off? Or are you just that bored?" 

Smiling, Eric accepts the seat, feeling just a little special that Stacy had wanted him here. "Thanks." Easing down next to her, he suddenly feels a tad awkwardness mix in with the pleasure. What he really wanted to do was put his arm around her and at least give her a kiss on the cheek, but he wasn't so sure she'd appreciate that here in front of everybody. 

Hearing Ashlee giggle, he looks across at her and quirks an eyebrow. It was obvious that she was looking at both of them, and he wondered where her mind had taken her. "What's so funny, hmm?" He bumps her shin with his boot under the table. 

Dylan shakes his head at Faith as he swallows his bite of food. "Naw, this is good. I... haven't had much of an appetite lately but... this tastes really good." 

Sparky smiles, glad that Dylan wasn't fighting the family atmosphere. If he couldn't yet spend time with Mick and Rosetta like this, at least he could gain some quality time here. Sparky knew that Mick felt left out, but that wasn't going to stop him from trying to help the boy. "Maybe next time I grill out, you and Jade and Dan can come over." 

Dylan finds that thought rather appealing and he nods. "Yeah... that sounds like fun." He glances at Faith. "He doesn't grill things to a black crisp, does he?" 

Run Over

Groaning and opening her eyes slightly Katie closes them quickly again as the light seemed to pearce them as her head throbbed. She felt like she'd been bashed over the head a few times with something. Katie couldn't remember a time when she had, had one worse than this.

   "Oh man...what happened?"

The last thing she could remember was...being at a bar with Hunter. She must have drank more than she planned. So this was a hang over...was it really worth this to get drunk? If asked Katie would say now, this really sucked.

   "A drink and shower sound nice if I can open my eyes long enough to see where I am going and what I am doing. I didn't indent on getting that drunk last night."

Pulling herself up on the couch and opening her eyes Katie takes the orange juice and gives a nod of thanks for Hunter. She was thankful he was thought full and brought it for her. Giving a nod of thanks she takes a long swige and the aspirin follow.

   "How much did I drink last night? I can't remember."

Giving a smile and a laugh at Jared's comment Grace shakes her head coming just a little closer. She didn't mind his flirting. He did it in a suddle way but still got his point across. Patting his arm Grace's eyes sparkled. 

Seeing something in Jared's own eyes that was less happy dosn't changer her expression though but she takes it into consideration maybe as something to talk about once they were outside. It was to nice to be in here, and fresh air would do Jared good.

   "Ok, let me go get someone to help get you into a chair ok?"

Leaving it doesn't take Grace long to get someone and help get Jared into the chair while also letting him try and stand on his legs. Even if he couldn't support his weight it would still help get the blood flowing the same way the hot and cold would.

   "Alright, here we go. I was thinking maybe we could hit up the garden. Its nice and sunny there and the views not bad either. What do you think?"

Looking up at Eric as he walks over Stacy's smile widens a little more. This morning had been a great one, the afternoon went pretty well, and now that it was night and Eric had come over it was going to be just as good. Stacy was happy that at least he was not tiring to avoided her and forget what happened the other night. She didn't want to forget about it...no...not anytime soon if ever.

   "That seat had been waiting there in hopes you showed up tonight. So yes, yes you can sit and join us."

Glancing to her mother than to Eric than to her mother again Ashlee can't help her own smile that grew even more. It was so easy to see how much Her mom and Eric liked each other. It made her happy too seeing how happy her mom was.

Eric was a good guy and she new he would treat her mom right. Ashlee liked him a lot and would be proud and honored to call him her father as long as he didn't mind. Thinking about that though causes her to give a little giggle aloud. Maybe she was getting a little ahead of herself.

   "Don't let him fool you Dylan sometimes I have to bribe him into going to the dinning hall. Sometimes I even have to tell him if he does than he can grill the next day."

Faith gives a big smile as she looks from Dylan to Sparky. Taking a sip of her water and a wink she new he would know she was teasing. 

Having Dylan here for dinner was nice and Faith didn't mind it one bit. It was nice cooking for someone else too. Guests didn't come to there home for supper often so having an extra body was pleasant, and seeing Dylan was comfortable here was nice too. She was happy the young man could find comfort.

   "I hope everything is cooked for you alright too Dylan. I wasn't sure what you liked but I figured who could go wrong with pot roast and potatoes."

Sleeping Beauty

Letting Katie nuzzle into him, Hunter drapes his arm around her. He still felt badly for her and all she'd been through lately. It didn't seem fair. He wasn't in the habit of sticking his nose in or randomly offering help... but as he'd concluded before, Katie was different. 

It wasn't long before he realizes she'd slipped off to sleep and a small smile creases his lips. She looked like an exhausted, frightened little girl and somehow it tugged his heartstrings just a bit. His fingers find themselves gently running through her hair before he gives her shoulder a little pat. He knew she was far enough gone that he needn't worry about her waking. 

Rising slowly from the couch, he manages to gently lie Katie down with a pillow under her head. Taking off her shoes, he then grabs a blanket and lays it over her before turning off the television. He'd let her sleep. As long as she wasn't out doing something stupid to hurt herself, he was happy... 

...Sunshine peeked in around the closed curtains in the living room, giving it a soft glow. It was already nine o'clock and Hunter had been up for an hour. Having already showered and donned clean clothes, he'd been extra quiet, letting the sleeping bundle on the couch remain as such. But it was getting late and he knew she probably needed to get up and either go to work, or call in - he imagined it would be the latter. 

Easing down on the couch next to Katie, he sets the small glass of orange juice and a couple aspirin on the coffee table. "Hey, sleeping beauty..." He trails a finger down her arm, trying to gently wake her up. He kept his tone quiet, knowing she would probably wake to a nice headache. "How about something to drink and a nice hot shower, hmm?"

As Grace enters the room, Jared can't help it that his eyebrows rise. No, he wasn't surprised to see her since he'd forgotten it was her day off, but yes, he was surprised to see her in such a pretty dress, all done up like she was headed somewhere special. But she was just here to see him? 

Despite his dismal mood, a little laugh comes to he surface at her comment about his flirting. What really caught his attention though was the thought of getting some fresh air. "You kidding? This room gets smaller every day. I'd do anything to get out of it for just five minutes." Especially today... but he wouldn't say that. Grace seemed so happy and perky that he didn't want to lay his troubles on her again. He looks down, hoping she wouldn't notice the darkness in his eyes, and tries to quickly cover it up. 

"Not to mention, having someone as pretty as you push me around in a wheelchair sounds rather thrilling." 

Eric makes his way slowly to the dining hall, gingerly favoring his leg. It felt a little better than this morning - at least he could actually move it. But it was probably going to take a few days to get back to normal again. He'd gone ahead and given Ashlee a riding lesson today anyway since he could stay on the ground and he was only having her practice sitting correctly while keeping the horse at a walk. Not that Angel would approve, but he wasn't about to disappoint Ashlee. Other than that, he'd stuck to cleaning tack, helping with some paperwork... and maybe he'd cleaned a stall or two, but only so he wouldn't go stir crazy. The only thing missing all day had been Stacy - he'd been busy, she'd been busy, and he'd only seen her from a distance once or twice to wave, but that was it. A part of him wished for evening to come quickly so he could ask to walk on her rounds with her again... and a part of him hoped that last night hadn't just been a fleeting moment, now forgotten. He certainly didn't feel any differently today... did Stacy? 

Getting inside, he takes off his hat and scans the tables. Seeing Stacy and Ashlee in their normal spots, a smile spreads on his face. Making his way over to them, he gestures to the empty chair next to Stacy. "Good evening, ladies. Is this seat taken?" 

Mick looks around the room and sighs. He hadn't seen Dylan all day, and hoped he'd at least show up for supper. So much for that.

"Hey, Dad." Jade gives him a smile as she heads from the kitchen, having been helping Becky. Seeing his furrowed brow though, she stops. "Something wrong?"

"Nah..." He shrugs. "Just noticing Dylan skipping out on supper again."

"Oh, didn't he tell you?"

"Tell me what?"

"He went over to Sparky and Faith's to eat."

Mick lifts an eyebrow, a bit surprised. "Oh."

Jade wasn't sure if it was annoyance or disappointment she saw, but either way, she felt badly that he wasn't happy about it. She tries her best to give him a smile anyway though. "I gotta go pour some drinks. I'll see you later, okay?"

"Yeah, okay." Mick forces a returned smile before wandering to a nearby table to sit. Another weary sigh surfaces. What was it Sparky had that he didn't? Would he ever understand?

"Mmm... boy, this is good." Sparky takes another bite of roast beef, complimenting Faith on the tasty supper. 

Across the table, Dylan nods his agreement. "How come you don't let her cook for you every night?" 

Sparky chuckles. "It's called being sociable." He tosses a wink at Faith. "Not that we go to the dining hall every evening though." 

A faint wry grin settles on Dylan's lips. He knew some people had felt funny about Faith and Sparky getting married - their backgrounds were so very different, let alone the age span between them. But as far as Dylan was concerned, they seemed perfect for each other and... he kind of liked being in their home. It was warm... peaceful... safe. 

Good Pillow

"Nash....I don't min..mind the company. Kinda don wanna be alonesh anyways."

As Fast as Katie had gotten drunk she could feel it starting to ware off a little too. She wasn't as giggly as before but now it was more of a drunken mellow state and although she was a little tired sleep was just something at the moment...she didn't want to do.

   "Nofhin better than a b...b...movie for sure."

Looking over at Hunter and seeing him offer himself as a pillow Katie gives a small smile. Maybe an innocent cuddle would make her feel better. Just to feel comforted would be nice.

 Moving closer to Hunter Katie curls up into a little ball and leans her head on his chest and draps her arm over his stomach. Just laying there she focuses on the tv starting to feel her eyes droop a little bit she does her best to keep them pried over. Sleep was not what she wanted to face yet. 

   "You make a good pillow you know that? Shoft, squishy, warm...you make a good pillow."

Letting her words trail off Katie tries to pay attachen to the movie once more but within seconds she was a sleep. Her breath shallow, her arm still tucked tightly around Hunter, her face buried into his chest. The only moment she made was a twitch here or there that hinted maybe she was drean, but of what no one would ever know.

Giving a knock on the door Grace smiles as she enters the room. Today she wore a pretty pink sundress and a while flower made a nice addition in her hair that was pulled part of the way back and hung in little ringlets. Not her normal a tire.

   "Hey there Jared. Bet you wouldn't see me today since I was off huh?"

Entering the room a little more she continues to hold her smile. Something about the air in the room seemed thick and maybe even a little hostile but she did her best not to pay any mind to it. She come here today with a reason and she hoped Jared would take her up on it.

   "So, I came here for two reasons...one I just couldn't take a day without your flirting comments and two its so nice outside I thought you might like to get out of this room for a little while and get some fresh air."

The Past

Hunter chuckles and shakes his head. He was a bit tired, but he wouldn't leave Katie to her own devices in this state. It wouldn't be safe for her or anything else in the living room for that matter. 

"Naw, I'll stay up for a while if you don't mind the company." Kicking off his shoes, he puts his feet up on the coffee table and grabs his tv remote. Flipping through channels, he finds a B movie that wasn't too bad, so he leaves that on. "I've seen this at least ten times but the end is still good."

Settling back in the cushions, he yawns and puts his arms up behind his head. Turning just his eyes to look at Katie, he studies her, and again feels sorry for her. She was drunk but so sad and he didn't like it at all. Motioning her over, he offers himself if she wanted something warm to cuddle up to. He wouldn't mind if it would help her fall asleep. 

Standing up, Garret nods, even though this whole thing was a mess. "I love you too..." Pulling Victoria close for one last hug and kiss, he finally lets her go before turning to the dead guard. Picking him up and slinging him over a shoulder, Garret nods his goodnight to Victoria, knowing he might not see her until the next night. In the meantime, he had some explaining to do about this guard and he had better think up the rest of his story fast.

Heading through the trees to the back of the security building, he waits for the camera like always, then enters the lawn. Life. Was this really life? Was there really something different out there? And if there was, could it be attained or not? These were the questions that could never be asked aloud. 

"Afternoon."

Jared looks up and puts aside the magazine he'd been through ten times. Seeing it was Justin, he was a little surprised, but still pleased. "Hey."

"Ma said she stopped by earlier but I was just going through town after seeing a client so..."

Jared nods. "You felt obligated to stop."

Justin smirks a little. Jared wasn't dumb. It was mostly obligation that led him here, yes. Yesterday had been a good day with church and time spent with Beth both at the pond and supper at his place. Feeling better than he had been, helped his mood be good enough to come back here today. "That and I gotta go get Ma's groceries next and she'd ask me if I saw you."

"Ah yes. Worse than a conscience, eh?"

Justin didn't know whether to laugh or feel guilty. Coming in to sit down, he sighs. "She said you gotta be in here a bit longer."

"Yeah... I guess the doctor didn't like the results of some blood tests or something. They wanna get some numbers up before they'll release me."

"Didn't that happen before?"

Jared nods. "Twice. I feel alright. Kinda tired. But yeah they've wanted to get rid of me a couple times now and couldn't. Blood pressure once... infection the other time. Now this."

"Well at least they're being cautious."

"Yeah." A weird pause follows and Jared's eyes drop to his bedspread. "I learned I like chicken fingers this week... and Ma said red used to be my favorite color..." He remembers what Grace said about asking some less important questions. "What did we do for fun as kids?"

Justin chews on the inside of his lip. Not much. He shrugs. "We didn't do a whole lot together."

"No?" Jared glances to him again. "How come?"

"Different personalities I guess. You liked sports. I liked fishing. You liked board games. I liked worm hunting."

"What about later? Like as teenagers? Did we have any girlfriends?"

As teenagers? By then, Justin and Jared were all but enemies. Justin shakes his head. "You had a few I think. I remember Rhoda. She was nice. Cheerleader, I think. You always got the pretty ones."

Jared grins a little. "Oh yeah?"

"Mm-hmm."

"What about you?"

"Me? Naw. Oh, I've had a couple girlfriends but nothing serious and not til college. Had a real nutcase too - that turned out great. Still ducking her calls every now and again."

Jared chuckles, starting to relax. Maybe Justin was finally warming up. "Mom said we went to different colleges. Did we get together ever?"

"Uh... no... no we didn't."

There was that tension again. Jared's shoulders slouch a little. "And there's the cue to change subjects."

Justin gives him a quick glance, realizing he'd been way too obvious. A new deep sigh comes out. Was he finally brave enough to face this? Did he want to? Was it even right to tell Jared? He'd told him to forget about it. He'd told him to just move on and start a new life without knowing the past the last time he was here. Wouldn't telling him now be contradicting himself? But did that matter if this was right? He recalls what Beth had said the day before, and knows deep down that she was right. Jared deserved to know, whether Justin really felt ready or not. "You really want to know about what happened between us, don't you?"

Jared nods. "Yeah... I do. But I won't ask again if it bothers you that much. Maybe someday I'll wind up remembering. I can tell it's a sensitive topic and I don't want to upset you."

"I had just turned ten." Justin wasn't sure what had changed his mind during the last couple minutes. Maybe it was Jared's willingness to let it go. Maybe it was knowing how pointless it was to hide the truth. It hurt. But maybe Jared was right. Maybe he deserved to know. "You were twelve. Dad was going to come home early from work so he and I could go fishing as a birthday present to me. He died in a car accident on the way home."

Though Jared couldn't remember, he still felt a pang of sadness. Justin had said something about a car accident when they'd been kids but he knew no details. "So what happened?"

"You blamed me for it."

Jared blinks. "I... but..."

"It apparently made sense to you at the time. It was my birthday. Dad was coming home early because of me. If it hadn't been for me, he probably would have avoided the accident." Justin could feel his stress level rising. "You never forgave me. At the funeral, you made a scene out of yelling at me and blaming me in front of everybody."

Jared swallows hard. He didn't remember, but he felt rotten anyway. "Was... was that it?"

Justin looked back at the hopeful eyes and for a moment, he wanted to lie. But he'd come this far - he couldn't stop now. "No... no, things never were the same after that. We'd always been competitive, but it was worse after that. We never talked about Dad - all it did was start fights. We brawled a time or two and after a while we just didn't talk much at all." Justin shrugs. "You left home as soon as you could and I didn't see you much after that."

"Oh..." Jared didn't know what to say now. Had he been that bitter? Had he really blamed his brother for something like that? It was... it was horrible. "So we hadn't seen each other much up until my accident?"

"Not much. You'd come to see Ma. Said you were passing through but you stuck around. That uh... tooth you're missing..."

Jared feels around with his tongue where there was a space over on one side where a tooth should be. "Yeah?" He'd thought it was from the accident.

"That's... my fault."

Jared lifts an eyebrow. "What?"

"I... sorta slugged you." Justin cringes a little.

"What for?"

"For a snide comment about me killing Dad."

Jared's eyes lower once again. "After... seventeen years?"

Justin leans forward, resting his elbows on his knees. "I guess so."

"I'm... I'm sorry." Jared glances over at him. "I know it doesn't mean much since I don't remember it... but I'm sure if I could, I'd say the same thing."

Would he? Justin had his doubts. Jared had no idea what kind of a cruel man he'd been. "I can't hold it against you," he admits. "Especially after all this."

Jared nods numbly. "Justin... did I have a girlfriend when I had my accident?"

"Not that I know of, why?"

Jared shrugs. "I thought maybe I remembered something. I guess not." Maybe that blonde that invaded the scene of his accident was just his imagination.

After that, they were interrupted by a nurse wanting to check Jared over, so Justin took his leave. It was a rather awkward parting, but perhaps it was the best that could be expected. Heading from the hospital, Justin is tempted to call Beth, but opts not to yet. He didn't want to crowd her... especially now.

Once the nurse leaves, Jared is left alone yet again. It always felt like that... like he was being left alone. He wondered if that's the way it would be, even when he was released from here. He had no friends and no other family, apparently. How would he even survive?

Glancing up at the wall clock, he wonders if Grace was coming today. He couldn't remember what she'd said the day before. All of his days just all seemed to melt into one anymore. While he hoped she would come because he liked her company... part of him wasn't so sure he was ready for her to read his eyes as well as she always did. This conversation with Justin was a lot to process and he wasn't quite sure he knew what to do with it yet.

Thankful

Handing off her keys to Hunter Katie goes around to the passenger side. A little slower than it would normally take but she makes it there and slips in. Feeling something vibrate under her bottom Katie gives a little jump shifting and reaching for her phone she forgot was there.

Opening the texts and seeing they were from Jason Katie reads them one by one before deleting them and letting out a sigh. Her finger hovers over the reply button but she hesitates. Shutting the phone off and stuffing it back in her pack Katie opts not to reply. She didn't want to hear an excuse, she was still angry with him.

Staying pretty silent the rest of the way back to Hunter's apartment it wasn't till they were inside and he was introducing her to his couch she finally chuckled. She was still intoxicated so it made the whole introduction a lot funnier.

   "Why hello Mr. Couch I know we just met but I hope you dont mind to much if I sleep on you tonight."

Plopping down next to Hunter Katie shifts around a little before looking at Hunter again and the mention of sleep. She did feel a little sleepy but not nearly enough to sleep. She wondered though if he was tired?

   'I"m not reallysh that tired...butsh if you want to sheep I can entertain myself shome how."

Continuing to being lost in the moment with Garret Victoria's guard was let down and hearing the snap of the branch brings everything back to reality. One she was not really ready to face. As Garret's reflexes kick in and the guard drops Victoria new it was a must and she would of done the same.

Just looking at the fallen body she can feel an anger surge through her. Why did they have to live like this? Would they always kill to hide there secret? She hated it had to be like this. Hearing There excuse Victoria gives a numb nod. This is not how she wanted the night to end but what was done was gone.

   "Yeah, Ok that sounds like a plan."

Sliding off Garret's lap Victoria looks back to him and places a hand on his own. This day had been a nightmare for both of them, one they would not wake up from but simply move on. She wished there was something to say to make it better.

   "You had to do this...No regret. My Grandfather will be thankful. I love you."

More Drunkenness

Hunter was relieved that he wasn't going to have to argue with Katie. Right now, he just wanted to know she was going to be safe, and the best way to do it was to take her to his apartment. 

"Okay good. Well how 'bout you give me your keys and we'll take your car so it's in a safe spot too?" 

Once he has the keys and makes sure she's in the car with him, he drives the short distance to the parking lot. Though not far, it was safer than leaving the car in front of the bar where who knows what could happen to it. 

Getting Katie out and up the stairs wasn't too difficult - she was so lightweight that Hunter had no trouble keeping her on her feet. When they arrive at his apartment, he's quick to unlock the door and guide her inside. Opting for the couch, he figured that was the best place - he knew good and well that it wouldn't be long until she was going to be out like a light. What he didn't know, though, was whether or not she'd remember anything when she woke up, and the last thing he wanted was for her to wake up in his bed and assume he hadn't been the gentleman he'd promised. 

"Alright... here we go... Katie, meet my couch. Couch, this is Katie." He guides her to sit, then eases down next to her.  "So, welcome to my apartment, I guess." He studies her glazed eyes for several moments. "How about getting a little rest, hmm?"

Soaking up Misty's comfort, Carson feels himself starting to relax again. She was the only one who could do that to him... relax him when he was the most uptight. 

Nuzzling into her, he sighs deeply, his eyes growing heavy. He hadn't thought he'd be able to fall back asleep but...

The beeping alarm yanks Carson from his sleep. Rolling onto his back, he whacks the top of the clock to get it to stop. It was still dark out, but it was time to get up, go for a jog then head to the restaurant. His drooping eyes stare into the darkness until he rolls back over. Cuddling up with Misty again, he slides his arm around her and tucks his legs in around hers. He didn't want to go running this morning and the restaurant could wait. He didn't care. He felt like he'd been run over by a truck, and that was that.

Garret didn't want this time to end. He could sit here forever with Victoria, feeling her so close, so warm. His heart beat loudly as his emotions poured out the only way they could. He felt love, pain, anger, comfort, sorrow, gladness... and it all was forced out through the continued kiss. 

A twig snaps. "What the..." 

Garret's head snaps back at the sound of someone's voice and his eyes instantly move to the side to see one of the guards, who was staring at them in shock. 

And Garret's reflexes are faster than his mind. 

In less than two seconds, the guard is no longer standing, but is lying on the ground with a knife in his chest, and Garret's eyes blaze as adrenaline surges through his veins. He hadn't even moved from his spot on the ground, but the witness was now dead. 

Gripping Victoria's hand, his eyes come back to hers, his gaze wide and concerned. More than anything though, he felt angry... for being caught, for the need to hide, and for the need to kill just to survive. This day had been bad enough, and now more blood had been shed - by his hands once more. Without even thinking or considering the consequences, he had just murdered someone because they'd witnessed him and Victoria together. And he had to think fast for them both to stay out of trouble.

"I caught him trying to sneak from the grounds," he states flatly. "Hans had paid him to find a way out." It was a bold-faced lie, but that's how this incident would be explained and Garret knew they could pull it off beautifully without so much as a blink from anyone. He swallows hard, hoping that she would agree to the cover-up. When on the job, seeing things like this were taken in stride. But usually killing people didn't happen while trying to relax at the estate.

His expression changes to one of sorrow. He'd been so enjoying their moment. To have it so abruptly ended like this, with a dead man just fifteen feet away, it was not how he'd wanted to say goodnight.

Being called to the scene at one o'clock in the morning, Reese was less than happy. The officer on the phone had explained that they had Alec, there had been some public disturbance, and when ready to haul him downtown, they'd realized he was under the eye of the Elite. After that, they'd tracked down Reese's home phone number. He wasn't sure if he was glad about that or not. If whatever it was was small, then he'd be mighty upset. If whatever it was was big, then he'd be even more upset. It wasn't fair that the Elite's rehabilitation program was riding on Alec - but that's the way it was. And if Alec failed, the program failed.

Pulling up outside the Bullseye, there are several cop cars with flashing lights, and a few people gathered around the sidewalk to gawk. Reese parks and gets out of his car, looking around at the glass scattered across the ground. There were broken beer bottles and several cars with bashed-in windows.

"Mr. Reese?"

He turns to nod at a police officer. "Yes. What's happened here?"

The officer steps to the side and points to a very drunk Alec sitting on the curb. "Apparently he was here for a while and had a few too many drinks. He came out here with some empty bottles and started breaking car windows for no apparent reason. We got called in and when we realized who he was... well, you know the rest."

Reese's anger boiled, but he manages to keep it below the surface. "Was anybody hurt?"

"Nah. He didn't seem to want anything to do with anybody. Just threw a fit all by himself."

"Great. Thanks. I'll take him off your hands." Reese was tired, disappointed and angry. And it was not a good combination. Stalking up to Alec, he gives his shin a light kick. "Get up."

Alec squints up at him, teetering slightly. "Aw, hey! Its th' cheif!" He cackles and tries to pull himself up, but struggles.

Reese reaches down and yanks him to his feet, forced to hang onto him, lest he fall right back down again. "You're coming with me."

"Right, right." Alec leans on him heavily. "And in th' sl'mer I go!" 

"Shut up." Reese half drags Alec to the car, shoving him into the passenger front seat and shutting the door - a little harder than need be. Getting in behind the wheel, he starts the engine without a word and aims towards TJY.

"I d'dn't hurt nobody, y'know," Alec slurs, slouching in his seat. "I's j'st havin' a bit of fun. I know you d'nt like that though. That's..." He frowns and counts on his fingers. "Um... three... three counts... right?"

Reese doesn't respond. Yes, it was three. Once not showing up for work. Once going outside city limits. And once disturbing the peace and destruction of property. That didn't include his being late for work several times lately, getting into a fight while on the job, nor his unexplainable bad attitude during the last few weeks.

Alec nods. "I g'ss tha's it fer me, huh? No more reh'belt'in." He frowns, being unable to pronounce 'rehabilitation' correctly. He shakes his head. "No more. Ov'r 'n out. No more Alec Banks ta threaten th' c'mmunity."

On top of being angry, Reese was sorry. He was sorry things had turned out this way. He was sorry they hadn't been able to help Alec. He had seen a good man. He had seen Alec's potential. He had seen the change. But when Alec had been dragged back in to the Agency, it had all been for naught. And now that they were trying to help him again, it was worse than starting over. Reese didn't know why. He didn't understand. All he'd wanted was to help the young man - give him a real chance at life without the Agency influence. He'd wanted to prove that Alec's criminal actions were only the result of the Agency and not his own nature. But lately.... lately, Alec was deliberately getting into trouble - pushing the limits to see how far he had go. It was as if he were just taunting Reese to hold to his word and throw him into prison.

Reese remembers the deal with the judge and the Elite board. By way of a miracle, he'd been allowed to keep trying to help Alec. Of course there had been punishment - there had to be. Alec was given hard labor as a consequence of his actions. But the judge had been lenient as a result of testimony that Alec had only gone back to the Agency in order to protect the innocent. Intentions didn't always win over the law, but they had this time. Now, though... where had Alec's intentions gone? He was defying the same system that had kept him from a life in prison. And Reese simply didn't understand.

Ignoring Alec's babbling, Reese continues to drive, getting to TJY. Dragging Alec inside, he makes his way to the first interrogation room, letting Alec sink down in a chair, and leaving him for several minutes before returning.

Alec looks at him dimly, his eyes glazed over and his mind functioning too slowly to do much good. "Ya g'na turn me inta th' pr'son?"

"No." Reese's stomach churns. He had tried. He had done his best. Maybe the program really wouldn't work. Maybe every time they got a hold of an Agency man or woman, they'd have to fight each case individually, hoping to give them a new chance, instead of having an established rehabilitation program. Maybe his dream would simply not come to be.

Kneeling in front of Alec, he pulls up Alec's pantleg to expose the ankle bracelet. He had left the room to retrieve the tools to remove it.

Alec furrows his brow. "What'r y' doin'?"

Reese doesn't answer. Instead, he simply sets about his task. He could get in very deep water for this. But the worst that could happen would be the end of trying to save Agency people. And even then, he had his own plans on how to handle that. Maybe he'd wind up paying for something. But with his reputation as Chief, he would probably only receive a reprimand from the judge. If anybody got hurt... well, Reese would have to deal with his own conscience with that one. 

Alec still tries to process what was happening as he stares down at Reese. "Ya g'na kill me or somethin'?"

Reese scoffs. "That, my friend, would be too easy and too humane for you." Removing the anklet, he stands, tossing it onto the table. Maybe there was a part of him, deep down, that hoped something good would come of this. That this move would be what Alec needed to prove himself worthy of being free. But the majority of what Reese was feeling was failure. He didn't often give up. But there was a time for everything. And tonight... he was done. "Stand up. I'll walk you to the door."

Alec manages to get to his feet, but was still confused. "Wha... why? What'r ya g'na do ta me?"

"Nothing." Reese takes him by the arm and leads him on a wobbly walk back to the exit and into the parking lot. "Now go."

"G-go... where?"

"Anywhere you want." Reese sighs deeply. "For once in my life, Alec, I give up. I can't keep you here. I can't, with good conscience, send you to prison. And I can't keep tracking you and cleaning up after your messes. As of tonight, you may go where you please. You do not have to report to work, and you will no longer be tracked."

Alec blinks, not knowing whether he was hearing the truth or if it was the alcohol messing with him. "I d'n't underst'nd."

"What's there to understand? You're free, Alec."

"Free?"

"Yeah. As in not my responsibility anymore. I wash my hands of you. I have tried everything I know how to do. I have given you every chance I possibly can. I thought it was going to work. I thought you would be happy to not be in prison or sentenced to death. But I guess I was wrong." Reese shakes his head. "You have four weeks to move to your own place. If you haven't found your own place, it's not our responsibility to take care of you. As of tonight, you will no longer receive an allowance. The Elite is through with you."

Though drunk, the seriousness of Reese's words do sink in, and Alec stares at him dumbly. "Well what.... what now?"

"That's up to you. If you get arrested, it's your problem, not mine. If the police or judge see any arrest records and deem you worthy of prison, it is their decision now, not mine."

"You c'nt j'st drop me in th' middle a n'where."

"I can, and I just did." Reese points across the parking lot to the street. "I will be informing the board of this first thing in the morning. If they disagree with my decision, they will have to decide what to do with you, because I'm done. You've proven me wrong about you, Mr. Banks. Congratulations." Without another word, Reese turns and goes back inside. Would Alec even make it safely home without hurting himself or getting run over? Reese didn't know. But it was time the babysitting stopped.

Alec stares at the closed door. Free? This is what free was? Being dumped on his butt with no warning? Why didn't Reese want him in prison? Why didn't he arrest him? Alec hadn't wanted this! He'd wanted prison! He'd wanted to get away from all this! But... freedom?

Staggering a bit, he heads for the sidewalk and aims towards home... he thinks. Was it left or right? Oh well, he'd find it eventually. Stopping every so often to lean on a light post or tree, Alec makes his way slowly home.

Free Ride

As Hunter steps in front of her Katie takes a few steps back to try not to run into him. Swaying for just a moment Katie regains her balance and than lets out a small laugh. She might have been drunk but she still had sense enough to know not to drive.

   "I was going to walksh...but a free ride...thats...even better. I might have gotten lost."

Taking Hunter's arm she links hers with his leaning into him just a little bit. She thought he was being mighty sweet.  In a way she was thankful because she had a friend to keep her safe right now, and care.

   "Ash long as your a gentil...men...your place sounds nice."

Taken in by Garret's kiss Victoria wraps her arms around him and just melts into his arms. His comfort, his love, she needed it at the moment. Returning the kiss she let as much passion flow as she could. Letting her hand run through his hair She just keeps the kiss deep all her emotions being put into it.

Holding Carson Misty new tonight it was him that needed the love and comfort. She new this was what he needed and she had no problem offering it. They shared it with each other, this was how it was.

   "Shhhh...there is nothing to be sorry for...It's going to be ok."

Running her other hand through Carson's hair Misty buried her head into his shoulder hugging him just a little bit tighter. She would try to chase the shadows away, she would keep him safe tonight.

XOXO

 Maybe on a different night, Hunter would have been able to let go of Katie's words. Maybe he would have been able to laugh them off as a dark joke. But something about how she said them tonight only served to increase his concern. If she were sober, perhaps his worry wouldn't be quite as intense. But her drunkenness on top of depression was not a good combination. Once again, he felt that same twinge of guilt for letting her join him in a bar at all. 

"Katie, hold up..." Paying the bartender quickly, he follows Katie's route out the door, just quick enough to get to her before she could get into her car. 

Sliding in front of her, he gives her a smile. "How about I drive, hmm?" There was no way he was letting her get behind the wheel. "Home won't be so bad once you get there..." Or would it? There were other people living with her but would they even know what kind of shape she was in, or check on her?

"Or... my apartment is just a couple blocks down. Wanna come over for a while?" He holds up his hands. "I promise to be a gentleman."

Just remaining seated on the ground, Garret wraps his arms around Victoria even a little tighter. "Normal..." 

Resting his head on her shoulder once more, his face was buried against her neck and hair. He breathes deeply, smelling her sweet scent and wishing with every fiber that they weren't here. He knew nothing else. She knew nothing else. They fought wars and came back here - that was their life. On the outside, it was all a lie. And even on the inside, much of it was a lie as well. Would there ever be truth? Peace? 

Eventually lifting his head again, he searches Victoria's eyes before leaning in and kissing her lips gently. Pulling back, it's only to tilt his head and kiss her again with more passion. He didn't care if he should be getting back to his quarters, seen by cameras. He didn't care if anybody would start to wonder where he was. He just wanted to be with Victoria and nothing else. 

His grip around her loosens and one hand comes up to rub her back. He had no more words. Words meant so little. All he had were his feelings and the only way he could show her was through his affection. Not letting the kiss break just yet, he lets it grow deeper, allowing his mind to forget all else, if only for a few moments. 

Returning Misty's kiss lightly, Carson nods. He'd go back to bed even though he wasn't convinced he'd be able to sleep.

Slowly walking with her back to the bedroom, he slides back in bed and pulls the blankets up again. This time though, he curls into Misty, letting her be the one to hold him instead of the other way around. This time, he just needed to feel her there with him and know he was okay. 

"Thank you," he mumbles into the pillow. "And I'm sorry."

Warrior

   "Hey....are you trying to use one of your pick up lines on me again?"

Katie's words were slightly slurred  and she herself new maybe it was time to go. But home was not the place she wanted to be. There memories of Jason lingered, memories of how there love had grown, the memories of everything and she didn't want to face it.

   "I'm not ready to go home Hunter. There...shadowsh and fhosts linger. There will be the echo of the voice telling me...life is not worth living. Home...I don't want to be there."

Hopping off the bar stool Katie's expression changed. It looked more sad now at the though of Jason and everything sinking in again. She felt so low, so unimportant...and being in a drunken state didn't help much with her thinking process. Taking Hunter's arm and giving it a pat Katie turns a little.

   "I was taken for a fool for sure Hunter. All this time he was telling me about how hanging out with just you looked bad, and look what he did. He made me look bad anyways. Maybe I should find a tall bridge and just..."

Katie words trail off as she lets go of Hunter's arm and starts her walk to the door. She felt like crap, and she didn't want to be here or there anymore but still those words wouldn't slip from her mouth. Even if I bridge was looking mighty comfortable right now.

Thinking about Garret's question for a long moment Victoria wasn't sure what to say. It was a question she had asked herself more than once but there was never really an answer. Was there a life outside this? Would they ever really know it?

   "One can hope and wondered but for us I don't think we will ever know it."

Looking up at Garret and searching his face Victoria's heart was breaking for more reason than one. Her mother, Garret, herself...would they always have this life? It was hard to think of anything else. She hated it here, but she loved it here..the conflicting feeling were enough to drive a person mad. 

   "For one day...I'd like to be normal, but I think its to late for that too."

Moving to the side of Carson Misty's heart breaks for Carson. She could only imagine what it must be like for him to have such things to remember. Was that why Carson was so distant, tired, what that why he was drunk tonight? After all this time could the past be sneaking up on him.

   "Oh Carson..."

Taking his hands in her own even if they were wet Misty brings them up to her lips and gives them a soft kiss. Her eyes giving so much compassion, and love twords him in just that single look. She cared so much for him and loves him with everything she was. To see him hurting...it hurt her.

   "I love you my sweet warrior...You've come so far."

Letting his hand go and bringing it to the side of his face her fingers brush lightly over his sing as she tilts her head a little and leans in for a soft kiss.

   "Come on, lets go back to bed....maybe we can chase those shadows away."

Home

"Yeah... this is one of the spots." Hunter gives Katie a wry grin as she wobbled and laughed. In a way it was kind of funny - with any of his other friends, seeing them get drunk was quite the form of entertainment. But for some reason, tonight... it seemed more sad than funny. Katie was being pretty silly, but... maybe if it wasn't  because she was hurting so badly, then it might seem more amusing. 

Shoving aside his bottle that had its label almost completely peeled off now, Hunter sighs. It was getting pretty late, and his backside was getting stiff from sitting here so long. "How about we call it a night, huh?" He nods towards the door. "I'll drive you to your place." She was going to have a nice hangover the way it was - he might as well try and get her to ease off before she drank any more. 

There was an amount of relief that seeped into Garret's veins as Victoria confirmed her love. He couldn't imagine being in her position. He knew it wasn't his "fault" about her mother, but he had still done his job and it was amazing that she wouldn't hold that against him. 

As she hugs him, he slips his arms around her too and just holds her tightly. Rocking back, he sits on the ground, pulling her into his lap and just keeping her in his arms. They should be able to sit together on a balcony under the stars, or in front of the fireplace in one of the sitting rooms. But it was the threat of death that kept them hidden in the shadows on the cold earth instead of somewhere they could be warm and comfortable expressing their affection.

"Life would be hopeless without you..." Garret rests his head on Victoria's shoulder, fighting against the rising emotions that tempted tears to fall. "Thank you... for loving me. I don't know what I'd do without that." 

Drawing in a shaky breath, he pulls back just enough to see her eyes once more. "Are we to always live like this? The rest of our lives?" 

Feeling Misty's hand on his shoulder, Carson doesn't move, but simply shakes his head. "No..." His voice was strained and hoarse. Finally he turns off the water and grabs a towel to dry his face. Taking a deep breath, he leans back against the bathroom wall, his eyes staring off into nothingness. 

"Seeing my family murdered the first time was bad enough." He swallows hard. "But seeing it over and over... and over..." He closes his eyes, fighting his emotions. The nightmare had been even more violent than reality.

"I thought I'd never have to relive that again." Lifting his hands, he stares at them trembling and he shakes his head, trying to laugh it off. "If only Medridge knew what a good job he did. He'd be pretty proud of himself."

Laughter

   "Maybe...maybe but for tonight...tonight I can continue to wallow in misery and you can...be my company."

Katie hurt, she was miserable, she wanted to call Jason and say she was sorry but than thinking about what she had seen again with him and Sandy reminded her there was anger there too. It sucked loving someone, hating someone, feeling crushed inside. It had been a long time since Jason made her feel that way. 

As the night went on and another beer was consumed is was that beer that did Katie in. She couldn't help but laugh at the dumbest of things. Everything just seemed funny and she couldn't help it. Her speech was less than perfect even though her concentrated and tried to make it so it didn't work.

   "SHooooo....this...this ish y'o normal shpot to hang out....out?"

Hearing her own speech makes her laugh again as she shakes her head and puts her hand on Hunter's arm. She felt so silly, but at the same time she wasn't thinking about unwanted things either so it made it nice as well. Maybe for this one night, this is just want she needed.

Sitting on the swing this had been her perch all day. Victoria didn't much feel like dealing with anyone or having the eyes of the other servants on her. She just wanted to sit quietly, morn her mother, and shed tears. They had been long dried up by now though and there was nothing left to cry. The silver locked hung around her neck now the place it would make its home. Now she sat continuing to wait maybe Garret would show up.

Picking up on the sound of walking Victoria once again new it was home before even looking. It would bring a smile to her face any other day but today she just didn't feel much like smiling though she did feel happy Garret was now there with her.

   "I was hoping you would come here tonight."

As he walks around and bends down in from of her Victoria looks back deep into his eyes. Sometimes that was the only way for them to share there emotions. To read each other deeper was to look deeper. The window to the soul was through ones eyes.

Bringing her hand out her soft fingers trace Garret's face. She could see his own torment he was putting himself though. It pained her in more ways than one to see this because she new what he had done really was bothing him. Finally resting in his chin her thumb just rungs over the side of his face. A tiny smile find it was out.

   "I told you the day before last Garret that I don't hate you, and I don't blame you so stop saying it."

Finally slipping off the swing Victoria puts her arms around Garret and pulls him into a big hug. She loved him, she always love him no matter what. This was just another hill they would get over. This was there life.

Laying in the dark Misty waits and waits for Carson to come back to bed. The longer she waited the more the worry sank in. She new he'd had a bad dream it was just easy to tell about what though she didn't know. 

Turning the bed down and getting out Misty grabs her robe from the hook on the wall and puts it on tieing it around herself. Walking to the bathroom she just stands there for a moment before coming up and placing a soft hang on Carson's shoulder.

   "Are you ok Hun?"

Nightmare

Though Hunter grinned at Katie, he wasn't laughing as much as she. He wasn't quite sure if she was covering up the pain or if it was the alcohol loosening her up. Either way, her words of sinking herself didn't set with him too well. Not that he'd overreact, but it wasn't easy seeing her like this. 

"Don't sink yourself." He shakes his head and winks at her. "I'd miss you."

He picks up his empty beer bottle. "As far as another one goes... I got a few drops left." He clinks it against Katie's bottle. "To freedom. And friendship." 

Watching her carefully, he cocks his head, noting that she was just about done with her second beer. At the speed she was drinking, he feared it wouldn't take much longer for her to slide right off the stool onto the floor. She was still speaking clearly though... but even so, he finds himself continuing to watch her. Why he was so concerned, he wasn't really sure. He didn't usually care about what people did in bars, let alone feel responsible. But Katie was different. And it's just the way it was. 

Tipping back his head, he coaxes the last remaining drops of beer from his bottle. "Well..." He resumes the conversation in the hopes that Katie would talk out whatever she needed to. "Whether you feel like it or not, you're not broken. Things will look better tomorrow, and you might even find out you don't need that rock to stand on anymore." 

It was late. The grounds were already dark, and crickets made the only quiet sounds. But Garret was far from sleep. Walking almost silently across the veranda and through the garden, his pace is slow and wandering. If anybody asked, he'd just tell them he was battling insomnia. The truth though, was that he was battling his conscience. 

Eventually he finds himself slipping towards the secret hiding place. For such a small location, it had much drawing power that he was rarely able to resist. Hands in pockets, his ears pick up all the sounds needed to avoid the detection of the security cameras. It was second nature by now. 

His boots move quietly through the grass, almost in silence. But his mind was nowhere near quiet. He had not seen Victoria since earlier that day when he'd returned. In truth, he had avoided her. He didn't know what he'd say. How he'd act. There had been a few other times when he had regretted his actions. But today was the worst he'd ever experienced. And Victoria was suffering for it. 

Coming upon the old swing, Garret is slightly startled to see Victoria's form. He wouldn't have thought she'd be out here at this late hour. He couldn't turn back though - he knew she would have already spotted him.

Approaching slowly until he was in front of her, a lump rises in his throat. Taking a knee and looking up into her face that was cradled in soft moonlight, he searches her dark eyes. "I'm so sorry," he whispers. "I don't deserve your love - I never did. I won't hold it against you if you blame me for today." 

Carson sits bolt upright in bed, sweat pouring down his face and neck. His heart thumped so hard, it felt as though it would beat right out of his chest. Staring into the dark bedroom, he glances to the side, hoping he hadn't just woken Misty. He couldn't tell. What time was it? It felt like he'd only been asleep for an hour or two.

Slipping out of bed, he pads quietly to the bathroom. Leaning on the sink, he splashes cold water on his face, trying to calm his breathing. He shook all over as the panic attack ran its course. He couldn't remember the last time he'd had that nightmare. He had never wanted to see it again. But it was back. He knew why. He knew it was stress that brought it on. But still, he'd been unprepared to see those images all over again... to revisit those memories.

Still leaning on the sink, water drips from his face to swirl down the drain, along with the running water from the faucet. Continuing to shake, he just wants it to pass before he went back to bed. Not that he would sleep after this.

Morning

Letting out yet another long sigh Katie takes a swig of her beer and swishes the liquid around in her mouth for a long moment just savoring the taste. It was cool and refreshing and she liked it. All in all it didn't seem that bad to have a drink if it was once in a while.

Hunter's comment strikes her as being slightly funny. It was strange in a way to hear someone else say about how nice she was. Most of the time it had been Jason or someone close to her but something about how Hunter said it was just....different.

   "Thanks for reassuring me I'm not broken but I sure do feel like it. Jason he's...always been my rock and now it feels like I'm sinking you know. Like I should just sink myself so it not long and drawn out."

Just shaking her head again Katie didn't mean to sound so depressed but its how her mood was right now. She just felt like complete crap, and she couldn't help her moon matched.

   "How about a toast...to freedom may it treat us both well and...something...something..something."

Katie gives a laugh knowing she sounded completely retarded right now but the beer was sinking in and she was laughing so that was the point of coming right?

   "You have to get another beer though if your gonna toast."

Watching Garret as he comes up the steps her face was a lack of emotion though standing there she felt like a puppy who was waiting for there master. Two had gone and one had come back. It was a fate she new was coming but somewhere inside her heart she had hoped. 

As Garret takes her hand and places the locket into it Victoria can't help the tear that finally broke from her eye. This was her mother, her flesh and blood, she was not made of stone and if someone anyone did not understand that than let them punish her too.

Wrapping her fingers around the locked she would keep it always, she would always ware it. And Garret's request would always be honored...though she hurt she could never be so mad as to not forgive him knowing he had to do it. 

Slowly descending the steps Victoria slowly walk down the walk way, into the garden's and to the secret spot with the swing. Right now she just wanted to be alone, she wanted privacy, she wanted to be able to cry freely. Now it was the time for morning the woman who had given her life.