Red, Pink, Yellow

Rosetta gives a soft hum as she layed on Mick's chest. She'd had a nice time tonight and though she was tired right now, there was still a slight bit of steam, and energy remaining for her to be able to chat with Mick. She'd always saved a little extra to be able to talk with him, that was one of those things she never wanted to miss out on.

   "I think you might be right. He's done a bunch of good since being here, while hel[ping himself alone the way."

Sitting up Rosetta leans on her pillow cocking her head to look at Mick and smile. She'd noticed that since Hunter had come here many different people had been acting differently and most of it was in good ways. Had God brought Hunter here for more than one reason? If he did, Rosetta sure was pleased with the outcome so far.

   "There is always a bigger plan out there that we don't know about. God's good like that and I think thats what I look forward to most each day. See how he's going to surprise me and what new things he'll show me that day."

A few days later Chad was was still in Organ and for how much longer he wasn't sure. Walking through shops he'd finally had a little spare things. Rosalyn's letter still in his mind and her question about what they were.

Passing a flower shop Chad stops and goes inside. Looking around at all the flowers he wasn't sure what he wanted to pick. Finally setting on some red roses there was also a yellow, and a pink mixed in with baby's breath.

   "I need to send these please."

Giving the clirk the address of where they needed to go Chad also wrote on the little card. He was excited for Rosalyn to get them and hope she liked them. He wasn't sure what kind of flowers she liked but these looked pretty.

   Rosalyn,
        My letters will not fade, and what do they mean?
For you will always be in my heart, and I will continue
to pursue till you tell me to stop. My words are never
empty because you are the first woman in a long time
who has made me speak like a mad man.
          Forever and Always,
               Chad 

Bigger

Having BJ tell him that he'd been missed gave Dylan a strange sort of feeling. He didn't despise the boy like he had when he'd first come here. Especially after that time he'd gotten lost. Maybe it had evolved into him actually caring about his "little brother" but it was still from a distance. He didn't know how to act around BJ, not to mention, Mick thought the world of him and Dylan knew his father was glad for another chance at raising a boy that wouldn't be trouble. 

He remains quiet as everybody else gathers to the table, including Hunter. The food really was awfully good - Dylan liked Becky and Rosalyn's cooking, but he did like Rosetta's too.

Perking up at Rosetta's question, Mick glances to Hunter and Dylan who seemed perfectly content to let him do the talking first, and he grins. "It was long, and I got a sore backside from breaking in that gelding Sparky brought home the other day." He rolls his eyes. "Next time, I'm going with him so he quit bringing back these ornery beasts." 

Hunter chuckles. "You mean like Bonzai?"

"Worse." Mick shakes his head. "When I sell this one, he's going to be sold along with a pillow for the rider to sit on when he's through riding." 

Laughter seemed to ease some of the tension, and the evening proceeded as very pleasant. Dylan smiled once or twice, and though that was it, Mick did notice, and he held onto it, hoping that it was the start of his son finally opening up. He hoped that every day... but maybe tonight was different? 

After supper, several games ensued. First a board game that BJ could play too, then once he was in bed and Rosetta was cleaning up the kitchen, Mick brought out the bowl of pennies - which would all return once the game was over - and a deck of cards. As it ended up, all three men were pretty evenly matched when it came to poker, and it wasn't until midnight that they finally decided to call it a night, even though there had been no winner yet. 

It was a while later that Mick was lying on his back in bed, unable to sleep, even though it was late. Though Rosetta was using his chest as a pillow, he knew by the sound of her breathing that she wasn't asleep yet either. 

"I think Hunter had something to do with Dylan coming tonight," he comments quietly. "I'm beginning to get the feeling that there was more than one reason that man was brought here. I thought it was just for his own sake, but now... I'm wondering if God's plan was bigger than that." 

Family

To: Hunter 
From: Katie

Ok, I'll try not to run out of them. I'm
still holding you to your promise of a
kiss attack. 

Giving a nod to Mick Rosetta smile and watches him walk away. Letting him clean up would allow her the time she needed to finish putting the touches on dinner. Getting plates, setting out items and the little extra time for Hunter to get there as well.

Bringing the pan with chicken parm in it to the table Rosetta looks down the hall before giving a yell for BJ to clean up and than come help her.

It didn't take long before the young boy comes from the hallway stopping at the table seeing Dylan. Giving a big smile Dylan was still one of his favorite people for one reason or another that no one really new.

   "Hey Dylan. Mom didn't tell me was coming to dinner."

   "Were Hunny, were coming to dinner."

   "Mom didn't tell me you were coming to dinner. I'm happy you did though, i missed you."

Giving a smile and stepping away from the table BJ disappears into the kitchen to help Rosetta. It wasn't long before everything was ready and everyone was sitting around the table. Looking from one person to the next Rosetta can't help but smile seeing how there little family was once again growing. Rosetta didn't mind, she rather enjoyed it. She was a family person and they meant everything to her.

   "So how was your guys day?"

Saving Up

"Yeah, no kidding." Mick was still surprised and still curious as to why his son had come over tonight, but he wasn't going to complain. He was thrilled that Dylan was here, and just hoped that he had a good time and maybe, just maybe he might come more often. 

Wrapping his arms around Rosetta's waist Mick gives her a squeeze before bending over her shoulder to give her cheek a kiss. "I'm gonna go clean up. I'll be done in a jiffy." 

Running a comb through his damp hair, Hunter felt ready enough to head on over to supper. Just as he's about to leave his bunkhouse though, he feels his phone go off and he smiles. He had a feeling he knew who that text was from. 

Sitting on the edge of his bed, he checks his phone. Sure enough, it was Katie. 

To: Katie

From: Hunter

Hey - sorry lunch didnt go quite like

you wanted. Gotta feel weird for u.

I miss u bunches too. Dont run out

of those kisses yet! Im saving up for

u ya know. When i get back... look

out. lol 

Not Everyday

Hearing Mick comes him she just lets him chat with Dylan for a second before he comes into the kitchen. Giving a smile over her shoulder at Mick she leans back into him just a little bit and putting her head on his chest. 

   "Mmm...I'm not to sure. He just came in a little bit ago and asked if he could have dinner with us."

Turning around from the counter and placing the break into a basket Rosetta places it on the little island. Once everything else was ready she would bring it to the table with everything else but for now it would stay in its place. 

   "I couldn't say no. It's not like everyday he asks to come for dinner."

Getting back to work Katie heads for the break room first to put her sub in the fridge for now. Than heading back to her cubicle Katie would get back to work. She didn't know how well she was going to focus because now her head had a whole new set of things to work through but she would.

Pulling out her phone Katie starts a text message for Hunter. She wanted to tell him how things went he had a right to know and most of all she wanted to say hi.

To: Hunter
From: Katie

Hey babe! Lunch went alright. It was awkward and not
as good as I had hoped, but it was done. At least I might
be able to work decently with him. I do have to work 
after all.

...Send...

To: Hunter
From: Katie

Did I tell you about how I miss you more and more
each day? I can't wait till your back and we can 
spend time together.  I think I'm running out of kisses.

Food

Jason stands from the booth and gives Katie a little nod. "Yeah, sure... I, um... yeah... see you back in the office."

Heading with her to the door, he pauses for just a second before holding it open for her and motioning her through first. Hurt, yes. Bitter, maybe. Mean or impolite, he would refuse to be. Following her out, he heads to his truck and waits for her to pull out of the lot before he starts his truck's engine. 

Getting back to work, he wouldn't go inside right away. Instead, he found himself sitting and thinking for several long minutes, letting his mind wander to place he hadn't in quite a while. It wasn't fun, and it didn't feel good... but maybe it was necessary. 

Eventually though he knows he has to get back to work, so he finally does go inside and to his office to work the rest of the day. 

Dylan gives Rosetta a half a smile - which, for him, was quite a display. "Thanks. That sounds really good. Especially the extra cheese part. I'll... just, um... wait in the dining room for Hunter." Slipping back out of the kitchen, he wanders to the table to sit down, not minding that he was alone for a short while. He was used to that. 

It wasn't very long before Mick returns from the barns, entering the house and kicking off his boots. "Hey Rosetta," he calls. "Do I have time for a shower? I..." His voice trails off as he realizes that his son was sitting at the table and his eyebrows rise. "Well hi, Dylan. What brings you here?" 

Dylan shrugs. "Uh... food... I guess." 

Mick smiles. "That's usually what brings me home too." Still surprised and a bit confused too, Mick sidles into the kitchen catching Rosetta's eye before thumbing out to the dining room. "What's the occasion?" he whispers. 

Of course

Looking back at Jason for a long second Katie lets out a sigh as she searches his face. It sucked to see how hard it was to make conversation. Maybe with time that would change too. As things moved forward they could talk like normal people would.

   "Umm....I don't think so. Not right now anyways that I can think of."

Gathering her stuff up Katie felt like she needed to say more but she really didn't know what. A simple goodbye seemed to little bit it was all she really did have to offer. Maybe thats all they really needed to do they didn't keep going in circles. 

   "Thanks Jason for coming and talking to me. I guess...I'll see you back at the office."

Hearing Dylan's voice Rosetta turns around and smiles at him. It wasn't often he came here for no real reason but Rosetta was always happy when he did. She wished he'd come around more because it was always nice to have him.

Listing to Dylan's question Rosetta was a little bit surprised but at the same time pleased. Even if she hadn't had enough food she would of made it work for the sake of Dylan staying. She enjoyed the young man's company around the house.

   "Of course you can stay for dinner. I always make to much food so there is more than enough. It's chicken parmesan, with Italian bread. As long as you like that, with a little extra cheese than you are more than welcome to stay."

Supper?

Jason nods thoughtfully, understanding what Katie said about the ranch. He loved it there too, he just didn't visit very often. He should though... to at least see his mom and sister. He'd wanted to go recently, but... not while Katie was there - especially with Hunter there as well.

"Glad your dad is better. I was kinda worried there when you said he'd had a heart attack. I know he hasn't been strong for a long time."

Glancing down he picks at the edge of his sub wrapper. Even though the tension was a little less, it was still just as hard to think of what to say next. Right now, he was at a loss for words. It was strange... for so long he and Katie had communicated without talking. It had been so natural. They'd had conversations all day long just by listening to each other's musings. Once that was gone... well... he wasn't convinced that they really did have anything once that connection had been taken away.

Realizing he'd been quiet for several seconds, Jason clears his throat and wraps up the rest of his sub too. He probably wouldn't eat it, but he wouldn't waste it here. Finished, he folds his arms on the table and looks at Katie again. "Well... I'm ready to head back to work, unless there's more on your mind. Your call."

Sitting in the grass and leaning back against the back wall of the barn Hunter takes a long swallow of cold lemonade before wiping sweat from his brow. Bum knee or not, he'd been helping Dylan clean up the toolshed they'd just painted the day before, and as hot as it was out today, it had been hard work. 

Dylan sits next to him and sighs, closing his eyes while cradling his own glass of lemonade. "I have to get back to my schoolwork," he mumbles. 

"Seriously?"

"Yeah. I usually work a bit after morning chores, right before lunch, then again late afternoon, then after evening chores when the others are all calling it a night." 

Hunter quirks an eyebrow and turns his head to look at the younger man. "I figured it wouldn't take as long, you being homeschooled and all."

Dylan shrugs. "I'm trying to catch up. I was behind... got further behind... yeah. Rosetta's cool though - she's been helping me catch up. She's let me test out of a few things so my plate isn't so full. I'm already a grade behind though - I don't want to fall back any further than that."

"Mm. I can understand that." Hunter takes another swig of his drink. "What about your dad? He help you with school too?"

"Nah." Dylan opens his eyes and squints out at the back pasture. "Fine with me though - he tells me what to do enough without having him do it with my school too. I'd never do it good enough anyway." 

Hunter purses his lips in thought. He didn't want to interfere, but what he saw of Mick was certainly a different picture than what Dylan saw. He understood father/son tension though, and knew that there were always two sides. "I dunno... seems to me he's pretty proud of you." 

Dylan scoffs. "Are you kidding? He's pretty proud of Jade, but me... I've always been the failure. I'm the child that always got into trouble and disappoints."

"Well we all make mistakes." 

"Not like me." Dylan concentrates on his lemonade for a moment before shaking his head. "Don't tell me you don't know about me either, 'cause you're too smart not to have at least figured it out." 

Hunter grins. "I guess I put a few pieces together. Regardless though... I've had a few talks with your dad and he-"

"Yeah he likes to talk to everybody but me." Dylan can feel his own bitterness and he bites his tongue. "Guess I deserve it though." 

Hunter sighs. "Look... I know what it's like to be at odds with your dad - I haven't even spoken to my father or seen him since I was in high school."

Dylan quirks an eyebrow. "Really? Why?"

"Got in a fight. Some of it was me. Some of it was him. He was pretty rough on me when I was a kid." 

"Yeah well... Mick hasn't exactly been what you'd call soft either."

"I know. He's told me." Hunter shrugs. "I know you see things different, but let me tell you... I'm actually pretty jealous of you."

"Huh? Why?" 

"'Cause no matter what's happened, your dad loves you. Every time he talks about you, I see it in his eyes - he thinks the world of you, regardless of past mistakes - yours and his. If my dad ever would have had that look in his eye when talking about me... I woulda felt like I was walking on the moon." Hunter finishes his off his drink and nods with satisfaction. "Yeah... even with the bad, I wish I had a dad like yours." 

Dylan looks down at his glass and shoos away a fly. "I wanna be closer to him," he admits quietly. "I just... don't know how and... I figured it was best that way." 

Hunter grunts in response. "That's just the easy way out... but even if it's easiest, it's also the suckiest 'cause you end up alone. And this... I know." 

"So how come you haven't spoken to your dad if that's how it is?"

Hunter grins. "Because I'm only now figuring it out." He gives Dylan's arm a whack. "Just don't tell anybody. I want 'em to think I was this smart when I got here."

Dylan rolls his eyes, but a little smile tugs at his mouth too. "Well... you might be right, but that doesn't mean things'll change between my dad and me."

"Maybe not. I bet he'd meet you halfway though."

"Halfway to what?"

"Whatever you want. A nice word. A handshake. Dinner?" He eyes Dylan thoughtfully. "Speaking of which... I'm going back over to your dad's and Rosetta's house tonight again for supper. I betcha they'd set an extra place for you if you showed up." 

Dylan smirks. "Isn't that me going all the way instead of halfway?"

"Nope. The other half is your dad letting your stay and enjoying your company. And if I'm wrong, you can hit me... on my bad knee... as hard as you want." 

Dylan's eyes narrow and he huffs a sigh before standing. "We better get back to work." 

"Ugh. Why did you have to say that?" Hunter pulls himself up and bends his knee a couple times to gain back his flexibility. "Mm... that smarts." 

"Bad?"

"Eh... gets a little better every day. It better, if I'm ever going to leave."
 

"And here I thought you wanted to stay."

Hunter grins. "Who said I didn't? I have to leave... that doesn't mean I want to..."

...It was later that evening and while Hunter was still cleaning up, someone else was stepping up on the house porch. After knocking, lightly Dylan slips inside, glancing around quickly. He didn't see his dad yet, but he could smell something good in the kitchen. "Rosetta?"

He wanders in that direction, poking his head into the kitchen. "Hi. Um... I know Hunter's gonna come over for supper... he um... well..." He shrugs lamely. "Can I stay too? If there's not enough food, that's okay - I can go back over to the dining hall." 

How Long...

Taking another nibble of her sub Katie gives a small nod listing to Jason. Misty had always been a strong woman in no matter what she faced. It didn't surprise Katie she was doing well or to most is seemed she was. Knowing what she did Katie felt bad for Carson and Misty. It was a tangled web and it was rather sad.

   "Oh, doesn't surprise me Rick is keeping a close eye on her. Wouldn't shock me if Reese was doing the same thing in the background. "

Placing her sub down again Katie takes the wrapper and wraps the rest of her sub up again slipping it back into the bag. She really wasn't that hungry and couldn't force herself to eat. She'd have it so if she got hungry in a bit she could eat it. 

Pulling her cup a little closer Katie takes a sip before looking up at Jason again. Looking back at him Katie wondered what he was thinking about as he watched her. Maybe he was looking for something or just searching. His words that followed though Katie gives a small smile and a nod.

   "I always love taking time to go home. It's so peaceful and relaxing. It's a good place to try and work through things. Not to mention there is never a dull moment and being able to spend time with my dad is always great too. He's doing better now and I am happy about that."

   "How long has it been?"

Wes looks out the window of the hospital. He'd been healing pretty good with very little complications. He was riddled with scars mostly on his back, and a good one along his jawline, and his limp was really the only things that said anything had been wrong. The only thing keeping in the hospital was his memorie loss. He had no where to go, he had no memorie of who he was and it was a danger to himself.

He was lonely, depressed, and frustrated. Every night he had a dream of his family, and now he was making out there face but there names, his name, it still didn't come. He'd left people behind that needed him, he'd been told he was a hero but not even that could he remember.

   "It's been about a year now that you've been here."

One of the counslers sat in another chair in his room. He saw him about once a week and was told it was to keep his spirits up and to continue working with him to remember. While slowly in his sleep he was Wes couldn't help but feel like it was a loss cause.

Sometimes Wes didn't understand why they still kept him here. He was told it was because he had no family he could call, or friends. If they let him go he would be on the street and still being over seas that would be a bad idea. So they kept him in hopes things would work out slowly. 

   "Do you think my family is still looking for me or do you think they think I am dead?"

   "I think you need to worry about remembering and than everything else will fall into place."

Wes lets out a long sigh before looking out the window again and leaning his head against the glass pain. Would he ever remember? Would he ever find his family and the people who he thought loved him?
  
   "I've got to....I just have to...they need me."

True Feelings

The switch in conversation felt abrupt, but Jason knew that there wasn't much more he and Katie could say about their relationship - not unless they wanted to keep digging at the wounds, and he knew she wanted that about as much as he did - not at all. 

"Misty's doing alright." He takes a sip of his water, trying to clear his head. It felt strange, talking to Katie about Misty, who was now his girlfriend. 

"She's probably doing better than most would. Stubborn enough not to let Carson's arrogance and stupidity get her down." He shakes his head and scoffs. "He really surprised us all on that one. Funny thing is, Alec and I are starting to be friends. Who woulda thought that would happen?" He rolls his eyes "Overall though... I'm glad I can be there for Misty. I know she still gets lonely and I know that under all that hurt, she still misses Carson - I can't blame her for that. He was her husband, after all. So I know there are some holes I can't fill, but... I'm doing my best. As far as her health is concerned, Rick is watching her like a hawk." 

Talking about something else seemed to have eased some of the tension, and Jason could feel himself relax a little bit. Enough that he could look past his own hurt and confusion for just a few minutes at least. Cocking his head, he studies Katie's face again, looking at different things this time. 

"You look better than when you left... I trust your visit to your family was good."

"Pst..."

Rosalyn turns quickly from the kitchen sink, automatically grabbing a towel to dry her hands. Seeing Mick, she smiles, but is curious as to why he was in the house. She usually only saw him out around the barns unless it was mealtime. "Well hi there. Looking for a snack?"

Mick chuckles and shakes his head. "Naw. I was just on my way to the office and thought I'd drop this off on my way." He hands her a letter.

Accepting it, Rosalyn's heart jumps when she sees it's from Chad again. Catching her uncle's eye, her cheeks gain a little heat. "Thanks..."

Mick cocks his head and studies her for several moments. There had been several letters from Chad since he'd left - it was growing apparent to him that it had not just been a casual correspondence until the newness wore off. "Must be quite a guy to keep making the effort to write to you."

She tries to hide her smile, but it's nearly impossible. "He is."

"You, uh... writing back to him?"

Rosalyn nods. "Yeah... Yeah, I am."

Mick continues to study her. He wasn't going to tell her what to do, but he did feel some responsibility as her uncle. "Not jumping into anything too quick there, are we?"

Rosalyn squares her shoulders stubbornly. "Chad has been nothing but a gentleman, and I-"

Mick holds up his hand to stop her, giving her a gentle smile. "Shh," he warns, keeping his voice quiet. "I'm glad you're able to correspond with him."

She backs off a little, now hesitant. "You... you are?"

"I am. I just want to make sure that you're using your keen mind as much as you're using your beautiful heart."

Smiling, Rosalyn understands, appreciating his gentle concern. "I am. Just... you haven't told Dad, have you? He wouldn't understand."

Mick shakes his head. "It's our little secret until you feel ready to tell him." He pats her on the shoulder before turning to leave. "Enjoy yourself. You deserve it."

Watching him leave, Rosalyn bites her lip while her smile lingers. She loved her uncle so much. One day she'd be able to repay him somehow...

...It was evening, after supper and after all the cleaning up was done. Rosalyn had been holding onto Chad's letter all day until she had her free time, and she'd turned down a card game to escape to her bedroom at home. And immediately after reading - and smiling more - she had settled on her bed to reply.

Dear Chad, 

Oregon sounds beautiful. I love the rain and could imagine those misty mornings before the sun. Walking in a gentle rain is one of my favorite things to do. If I'm sad, the gray clouds seem to wrap me in a blanket with the rain covering up my tears. And if I am happy, the lightning seems to smile, and the raindrops are heaven on my skin. 

You're a brave man to accept such an endeavor as my safety. I fear perhaps you don't fully understand how serious a situation it is, because the ranch itself is safe and peaceful. We are untouched here, as there are too many of us - our strength lies in numbers. But outside, there is danger. I have never been harmed. But I have never faced the outside world while so closely connected to this clan's inner circle. My fear is not that you would cower, but that you would be harmed because of me. That is something I'm not sure I could live with. I will not let my fear keep me from you though. I will only pray that God would protect us both, no matter where this leads. 

Pausing her letter, she thinks about her short conversation with Mick. Was she really using her head? Where was all this really going? Did she know? Did she care? Was she being wise or just throwing caution to the wind? It was only letters... or was it? 

I feel sometimes that I wish I knew more of what you and I have - where we are going, and if the letters will fade, or become something more. But I know that right now, neither you or I can afford more than written words, entrusted to the mail. And I think I'm satisfied with that, if you are. I have no one else knocking on my door or asking me for a date. Yet if they did, what would I tell them? How serious are you? How serious are your sweet words that make my heart flutter? Are they empty, written only in fun to temporarily occupy your heart? Or are they sincere, meant only to me? Miles between make it difficult for a young woman like me to know for sure whether this path is right and smooth, or if it is crooked and full of pitfalls. When I imagine your arms around me, I feel safer than anywhere else. When reading your words, I feel like an undeserving princess holding a treasure. Am I naive and foolhardy? Or am I feeling what is true and embracing it? 

She thinks of her father's reaction when Chad had left. Was he right? She'd been so embarrassed and upset. She'd never told Chad about that, and wasn't going to yet either.

While I search for answers, know that I dearly love hearing from you and also writing to you. For someone I hardly know, I miss you a lot, which is confusing to my heart. If I had to sew a hundred buttons, I wouldn't mind, if it meant I was able to see you again.  

It's getting late and I have an early morning tomorrow, so I better get this letter to the mailbox so I can go to bed. I'll say hi to the moon on my walk. 

Rosalyn

Had she said too much? Had she written too many doubts? Would they scare Chad away or make him leery? She hoped not. But she did want to be honest with him, and what she'd said was truly what was on her heart and mind.

Defend

Katie gives a little nod, she understood what Jason was saying and respected that. She wished he didn't feel like he had to walk on pins though. Nothing he said or did would upset her, it just wasn't her right to be upset about that anymore. 

Friends...could they be? At least that would try and thats what was importance to Katie. She new for her like for Jason it would be hard but she was willing to work twords it and do the best she could.

   "So, how is Misty? I kind saw her the other day but really didn't talk much to her."

It was a lame attempt at keeping a conversation going and Katie new it but they had to start somewhere right? She really did want to know how Misty was holding up too. She'd made a promise and she was going to keep it. Not to mention she was her friend and she did care.

Sitting at the marina Chad's feet just dangled above the water as he held Rosalyn's letter in his hand. He was on lunch and alone able to read the letter and even start a reply. It seemed most of his time was spent alone so he could read, write or think about Rosalyn. Questions had come up on why and if he was getting depressed but he'd left everyone wondering only smile and reassuring them he was in face not depressed. How could he be with someone so special writing to him.

Rosalyn,
   
   You fill my days with joy when I get one of your letters and when I can quietly slip away to to have some free time to read and even reply it is truly peace I feel. Today I write to you while I am on my lunch. Sitting in the marina in Oregon. Most mornings here are cloudy and filled with rain but by noon the sun comes out. I find it funny that at that very same time is when a letter from you comes. I can't help but smile and think it's you that brings the sunshine.

   Our apple tree......Mmmm.....I like the sound of that. To think we have our own spot, a place to look forward to seeing again, a place where memories to be placed. Its our first and I can hope there will be more spots too.

Going back to her letter and going over again what she wrote about her family and about this Agency he wanted to make sure he understood what he was ready. He did know a little from Katie about the stuff that went on with the family and people had been after them for as long as they remembered. Though he didn't completely understand it it did not push him away from giving Rosalyn the happiness she deserved and the happiness he wanted.

   You might be marked but I'd hate to be the person who would try and bring any harm to you. Does this news frighten me away from you? No my dear it does not, not even in the slightest, I would defend you with my life till I couldn't anymore. Oh Rosalyn...How special you are, and though I may not understand everything I would not take something lightly when you have told me. Maybe on day when we are face to face again you can explain a little more to me about the Agency so I am prepared to keep you safe. You have over looked my past, I over look yours but keep myself ready to defend when I need too.

Looking out across the water Chad gives a large smile. To think about Rosalyn it just did that to him, made him smile, made him feel all warm and fuzzy. It was just a nice feeling, one he'd missed, and he wasn't backing down not yet. It was comforting to know she was looking at the same sky too.

   Well as much as I would like to continue this letter to you, I must get back to work. I look forward to getting another letter from you soon, and being able to reply as soon as I can. Tonight I will look at the moon too. 

     Forever and Always,
          Chad

  

Eventually

Another sigh surfaces and Jason sets his sub aside. Friends? Could they really even get back to that point again? 

"I don't hate you Katie," he answers quietly. "I never did. I'm just... hurt. And I'm trying really hard not to be bitter. Having you back is harder than I thought it would be. I don't know what to say or how to act anymore. It's like walking on pins and needles and... I just don't know if that's gonna change or not." 

He knew that's not what she wanted to hear, but what else could he say? He couldn't lie and tell her it would all be just fine. He didn't know if it would be or not. 

"We... shared something special... something more than friends, and more than being boyfriend and girlfriend. We shared... each other's souls. Our thoughts. Our emotions. We were intimate in ways that no one else could ever understand. And after all that... to have it wiped out and torn to pieces... to say 'hey, lets be friends' is... well it feels a little harder than that to me."

Searching Katie's eyes, he sees her tears, and his heart hurts a little bit more. "But... it would seem a worthy goal," he relents. "I don't want our jobs to be a nightmare because of the tension between us. We were just friends once a long time ago... I'm sure we can pull it off again eventually." 

Dear Chad,

Your letter, as usual, brought a smile to my lips. I never knew a man who could write such nice words, let alone legibly - you have mastered both skills quite well. 

As I write, I'm sitting under our apple tree. It was too nice of a day to stay cooped up inside, and I was able to find the quiet privacy I wanted here. If I close my eyes and try very hard, I can imagine I am sitting here with you. But I miss the warmth of your arms around me. 

Leaning her head back against the bark, Rosalyn sighs and closes her eyes. Chad's most recent letter had more than confirmed that he wanted to continue writing, and that his intentions were for more than that too, if it would somehow work. The thought created a strange new sense of fear, yet it also filled Rosalyn's stomach with butterflies. While good sense told her that perhaps she shouldn't avidly pursue this, she couldn't help but write him back. He had come out of nowhere, swept her off her feet, and made her feel so very good... how could she ignore that?

Looking back down at the paper her pen hovers over the next line. In all reality though... she needed to be fair. There was more than one reason a man might not want to actually get involved with her.

You flatter me with your intentions. I wonder what it would be like if we were not separated by miles. Perhaps it would be sweeter. Or perhaps you would quickly grow bored of me and realize the ocean was still your first love. 

If, though, you do indeed intent to pursue me, then there are some things you must know. I am sure you have put a few pieces together - perhaps you have gleaned a little bit of information from Katie as well. In the end though, the bottom line is that my family is not a safe family to get involved with. You see, for many years, we have been hunted. I'm sure this will sound like a fantastically fabricated tale, but you must believe me. There is an illegal organization that has tried to control both the Henson and Pent families since the older generation were mere children. This organization is called the Agency and it has harmed us in many ways for a very long time. They are the reason I grew up without knowing my father - he feared for my family's safety and therefore he and my mother remained separated until they felt it safe once again. The Agency is also the reason that my parents gave up my younger brother, Ty, for adoption when he was a baby - for his safety. Clint and I grew up under the impression that Ty had died, and only recently did we find out the truth. 

Most others in our two families have been affected in one way or another by the Agency - and none of it is good. We are always watching the horizon. We trust no strangers. We wait - living not in fear, but in constant caution. Even while you were here, security cameras held you in their sights most of the time. Many have died going up against the Agency. It is nothing to be joked about or taken lightly. 

You may or may not believe the severity of this issue. Were I to have enough paper I would write you page after page of stories of how the Agency had almost ruined my family time and time again. How they have almost destroyed most everyone here at the ranch. There is so much that I could tell you - want to tell you - but one letter is hardly enough. I have been sheltered from direct danger, but that does not remove the fact that I am a marked woman by my name alone. I am James Henson's daughter - that is enough for me to be the Agency's prey. 

If you can still desire to have my heart after knowing this, then I will have no choice but to accept your letters and beloved poems, for it will prove to me the purity of your heart. But if you choose to step aside now to avoid any undo misfortunes, I will not blame you nor think badly of you. I will simply cherish what we've had, and rest assured that you are somewhere out of harm's way. 

I do not want to end this letter on a sad note though, for fear of this special place under our tree becoming something less than happy. So I will close now. And tonight, my eyes will be on the moon once more.

Rosalyn

All I want

   "If you want to hate me Jason, thats completely up to you and I wont hold it against you. For me, I'd like to try and be friends. Be able to stand each other at work so we can work, so there wont be an awkwardness."

Katie searches his face for a long moment. Thinking about all this stuff was hard, and talking about it even harder. To think someone she held so dear to her at once was now so far away and it was her own doing it was rough.

   "I know its going to take times and I'm not asking for answered prayers over night...but if we can at least try. I can't do it alone I need you to try as well. That's all I want from this is for at least be friends."

At this point thats all Katie did want. Even if it took a little while to be friends with Jason again was her goal. They had been close, they had gotten along and Katie just wanted a little bit of that back. Jason had always been a good friend that she couldn't deny.

Why?

Once again, words evaded Jason. He didn't agree about their connection - to him, it was pretty plain that that's all they'd had. True love? It didn't seem so any more. But he wouldn't say so. It would only start an argument, or cause more pain at least. And neither he nor she needed any more of that.

Eating in silence for a few more minutes, Jason finally speaks again. "So... where do we go from here?"

He searches Katie's face once more. "I mean... why are we here? Just so we can tolerate each other at work? To prove we don't hate each other?"

Not Sure

Katie could feel a pain in her heart return as Jason talks about he was going to come the morning of and try and works things out. Her own pigheadedness had lead to the not happening, if she had only opened her eyes and tried a little harder, things could of been so different and this pain of loss would be less.

Another pain seemed to follow hearing that Jason really believed that she had wanted someone else besides him. She'd thought for sure he'd known her better than than but than again actions speak louder than words and without there connection that little extra that said I'm yours and your mine was not there and know what one thought or felt had been a great deal harder.

   "Yeah, I...I can't blame you for that Jason. If I'd been in your shoes I can't say I would feel any differently. I should have let you explain, and if not at that moment because I was so upset I should have at least talked to you later in the night when I cooled down."

Looking out the window for a very long moment Katie hated how she felt. Being here, saying she was sorry to Jason she wondered if it was doing any good or just putting them through more pain. That was the last thing she wanted to do to him. He seemed happy, and Misty was a good woman, Katie new she'd take care of him since it was no longer her job. She'd still worry though because at one point Jason had meant everything to her, and she did still want to be his friend.

Sighing and looking back to Jason Katie couldn't help the small tears that had formed in her eye. The truth hurt, the past hurt, words hurt...but she new it was how Jason felt and there was no way she could fault him for that. She had her feelings and he had his even if she didn't agree.

   "I'm not sure I believe it was only the connection that was holding us together, but I do know it was the connection that tore us apart."

Finally picking up her own sub Katie takes a nibble of the edge of it. She wasn't really hungry but she wanted to try and at least eat a little bit. She could bring the rest of it home and eat it later. Maybe it could be here dinner tonight too. Than she wouldn't have to worry about cooking or bothering Thirteen and Ryder.

   "I'm happy you and Misty have grown close. You both deserve this after going through so much."

Would they ever be friends again? Katie didn't know but she hoped this was the right path. Her and Jason might never be involved again but that friendship was important to her. So she'd take it slow and just see how things would go.

Meant to Be

Seeing Katie finally arrive, Jason sets aside the sugar packet and offers her a partial smile. And all of a sudden, he regretted agreeing to come. But he had, and he wouldn't go back on his word now. 

Once ordering food and getting settled in the booth, Jason leaves his sub untouched as he listens. Her initial apology comes as a bit of a surprise, and he finds himself just studying her face as she continues to talk. He felt as though he should interrupt and say something, but he didn't know what, so he lets her finish whatever else she felt she needed to. 

As she explains and apologizes more, the dull ache in Jason's heart seems to cause him more pain. Not because he didn't like her apology... but because this whole thing just proved that it was all so stupid and never should have happened at all. But then... maybe a lot of things shouldn't have happened. 

Silence takes over the table as he tries to process her words and accept them. There was a part of him that was still angry, and it's that which he tries to set aside. He knew it was wrong to be bitter - especially after she'd said she was sorry. Staring down at his sub he toys with a couple stray pieces of lettuce trying to collect his own thoughts now. 

Eventually he looks back up again, heaving a weary sigh. His shoulders slouch slightly and he purses his lips, still thinking. "Thank you... for telling me all that." 

What else was he supposed to say? He had no idea. He'd thought up a whole lot of things he'd wanted to say to her over the last month or two, but at the moment, none seemed appropriate. 

His eyes lock with hers searching for something that made sense in all of this madness. "I'm sorry that you had such a hard time, losing our connection. I'm sure that even though it wasn't easy for me either, that it was probably worse for you. More than likely, I didn't do a very good job of recognizing that at the time, so... for that, I guess I'm sorry too." He shrugs lamely. "I could have handled some things differently - like with me and my friends. I never meant to neglect you and..." He gives a slight scoff. "That morning I came looking for you, I'd... made up my mind that I was gonna work harder and try to rekindle what we'd lost. But... I guess the effort was just a few hours too late."

He finally drops his gaze again to stare down at his sub as his mind replays that morning... going to Hunter's... finding Katie there. His appetite now seemed to have fled. 

"It's... interesting to hear you say that all you ever wanted was me. After all that happened, and seeing you with Hunter, I guess I came to the conclusion that you didn't want me anymore and were just waiting for an out. And when you saw Sandy kiss me, it just gave you the excuse you needed to dump me for someone else you wanted more." His fingers strum the table with an erratic tempo. "Hearing you say now that it's not how it was... I guess I want to believe you but it'll take a little while." 

He couldn't help it that that was the truth. She sounded sincere, but after how everything had happened, it still hurt a little too much to just take her word for it now. He'd have to mull it over a while longer and let it sink in before that hurt would go away. 

"Ya know..." A slight rueful grin tugs at his mouth. "Finding you at Hunter's wasn't the worst part. What hurt the most was you not believing me about Sandy." He shakes his head. "I never had any feelings for her, and until she kissed me that night, I never knew she had feelings for me either. Call it being a dumb guy, I don't know. I guess I was just blind. But having the person closest to me not even let me explain... it still hurts."

It did, too. Even now. He could still see the taillights of her car fading as she'd driven away from the concert, leaving him standing helpless to do anything. 

After another short pause, he catches her eye once more. "But I guess none of that really matters now, does it? You got Hunter, and Misty and I have connected." He shrugs again. "Maybe you and I never were meant to be in the first place. Obviously it was the connection that held us together. Without it, we fell apart. So maybe all of this is for the best anyway."

Finally, he forces himself to pick up his sub and take a bite, even though his stomach was in knots. He might just throw it up later, but he might as well attempt eating - at the very least, it gave his hands something to do. 

Just wanted to say

Stepping inside the sub shop Katie was running a little late but the paperwork she had been doing was almost done and she had wanted to at least try to finish it. Scanning the room she hoped Jason would still be here and hadn't given up waiting on her. Seeing him she gives a small smile walking over him but not to big. He's kept his word not that she even though he would.

   "Hey, Sorry I'm late."

Ordering there food and finally settling down Katie looks down at her glass of ice the was floating in her water and slowly melting. She'd known what she wanted to say and now...now all her words seemed a million miles away.  Katie had explained to Hunter before leaving for lunch that she was going to be talking with Jason. He didn't seem happy but he's said he trusted her, and she told him it was for the sake of her job. The thickness in the air couldn't really continue. But now...she had no idea what to say.

    "I new everything I wanted to say coming into this and now...it seems words are lost. While this whole thing comes down to though is I wanted to say I am sorry. Sorry for the way I acted, sorry for the way I treated you, and sorry for not trusting you."

Unwrapping her sub finally Katie looks down at the lettuces that falls to the paper before looking up at Jason again and searching his face for a long moment again. She wanted to make things right, she wanted to be at least friends again but she had no idea how. So many emotions ran though her and she had to try and find the right way to express them.

   "There was many things I could have done better, maybe things I should have done differently and I see what now. When our connection was broken I became lost, I didn't know how to express myself, tell you I was upset, I was hurting I just...I didn't know how and the more I tried the more I failed. I should have taken into consideration how you would feel I didn't and for that I am sorry. My friendship with Hunter I never meant for it to get in our way and it did."

Pain was riddles on Katie's face as she talked. Remember Jason's looks, his pleas, his willingness to try and work things out. Katie had ignored it though, her own thick hardheadedness got in the way and destroyed everything. She saw that now and she new Jason had done nothing wrong.

   "I also wanted to say I was sorry for what happened when I saw Sandy kiss you..."

Kate lets out a long sigh. It still stung a little thinking about it.

   "...I should of talked to you, not walked away like I had...I just...I don't have an excuse other than I was hurting so much already from feeling ignored that I didn't know what else to do. So I am sorry for that, sorry for turning out back on us and putting you through heck. All I ever wanted was you, and only you that I became so wrapped up in what I had lost with our emotions, and what else I could lost, that I actually did lost it. So I...just wanted to say I was sorry to you."

That Simple

Mr. Sub. Jason could handle that. It was close to work and the atmosphere was alright. He gives Katie a slight nod. "Yeah, okay. That'll work."

Her request for him to clear it with Misty brings a rather sarcastic expression to his face before he can stop it. "Of course. If I didn't, that would be pretty hypocritical of me, don't you think?" It may have been a couple months now, but he remembered all too well what it felt like when Katie would do things alone with Hunter. He hadn't changed his stance on the subject, and would certainly run this past Misty before going. And if she had a problem with it he'd take her along or not go at all. It was that simple to him.

Turning around, he talks over his shoulder as he leaves. "I'll let you know if there's a problem."

As suspected, there wasn't - especially with the way things were between him and Katie right now. Jason wasn't doing this for the fun of it. He was only going because Katie had requested it. And as far as he knew, there was no intention of making a habit out of this.

...When one o'clock finally rolled around, Jason was already seated in a booth at Mr. Subs. He hadn't ordered yet - out of respect - but sitting here waiting was making him rather nervous. He hated it, but there wasn't much he could do about it. He couldn't remember a time ever being nervous around Katie. It was awkward and felt unnatural. His feelings were all mixed up, and he still didn't know if he was still angry with her, or missed her. Could he be both? It felt like it.

Playing with a packet of sugar, he waits to get this over with.


Justin laughs, enjoying Misty's humor. "Six tomorrow night sounds good, and I'm not allergic to anything, so don't worry about killing me. And I'll eat just about anything, so you should be safe."

He jots a note down on his desk as a reminder. "I will see you guys tomorrow then. Thanks, Misty. Really appreciate this."

Make sure

Looking down at the calendar on her desk Misty checks what time she is working tomorrow and if she had anything else planned. Jason had to work late tomorrow so if he did come over it wouldn't be till much later and she worked the early shift. She hoped Alec would be around tomorrow but if she wasn't she could always tell him what was going on and was sure he would change it to be home.

   "How does dinner at 6 should. We could have a nice relaxing meal and talk about whatever we need too. Not to early and not to late that we would have to rush things."

Misty leans back in her chair for a second stretching her back a little bit. This morning had not been the best morning as she woke up with a lot of back pain. She didn't complain to much though other than to Alec. She new it was just going to get worse before it got better.

   "Is there anything you don't like to eat or are allergic to? I'd rather not kill you on your first time over."

Seeing the look in Jason's eyes Katie backs away just a little bit not meaning to sound to eager, or crowd him. She new she didn't deserve any kind of explanation, or reasoning she just hoped Jason would let her. She didn't want to do this for herself she wanted to do it for him, for there friendship. If nothing else she wanted to at least be friends with him again even if she new it was not deserved.

   "Mmmm...how about one o'clock at Mr. Sub down the street?"

Katie was thankful Jason would let her talk. She wanted to say they could ride together to save gas but she stopped herself from being friendly to fast. Slow steps, they could drive apart, she new the way Jason new the way and the last thing she wanted to do was step on anyone's toes.

   "Ummm...thanks Jason. Just make sure its ok with Misty alright? I don't want to cause any problems with you guys."

Surrender

Accepting the papers from Katie, Jason's eyes drift over her face for just a moment. "Thanks." 

He's about to turn and leave when Katie speaks, so he stops. Her idea for lunch catches him off guard, and for a moment or two, he just stands quietly, his eyes staring into hers as if searching for her motives. What could she possibly want to talk about? They were over - that much was obvious. What was done was done, and that was it. Why did she want to speak with him now? 

Sighing, he leans an arm on the top of the cubicle wall, feeling rather torn. Part of him wanted to roll his eyes and walk away with a snide comment, while part of him wanted to hear whatever it was Katie wanted to say - he did miss her friendship.

"I don't know, Katie..." He fiddles with his papers, looking down to shuffle them together in his hands. "One minute we were close, and the next you were walking away. Now all of a sudden you want to do lunch?"

Shaking his head, he turns and exits her cubicle only to stop again. Setting his hands on his hips, he wishes that his conscience would hush. If he was to deny her this now, what did that say about him? Did that not make him just as bad as she? 

Slowly turning back around he gives her a little smirk of surrender. "Where and when?" 

Justin is relieved to hear Misty's answer and he scoots his chair closer to the wall to look at his calendar. "Tomorrow evening... sounds.... perfect. Yeah, that would be great." He and Beth hadn't made plans for tomorrow yet, and he knew she'd understand anyway - she supported his work, and he truly did appreciate that. 

"What time would you like me there?" 

Talk

Hearing the noise outside her cubicle Katie had looked up just in time to see papers go flying everywhere. Blinking and realizing it was Gunner and Jason Katie doesn't say anything. She'd seen Jason in the hall a few times today but neither said anything to each other. It was just one of those things and it still felt strange.

Seeing some of the papers floated into her cubicle Katie looks down at them for a second before looking up as Jason knocked on the wall. Hearing him say sorry something twisted inside her. He shouldn't be sorry...he hadn't dont anything wrong.

    "No, No, don't be sorry accident's happen. I..."

Closing her mouth and not finishing what she was going to say. Bending down and grabbing some of the papers that had gone farther in Katie looks down at them for a second remembering what she'd talked about with her dad. She did need to talk to Jason. Maybe they wouldn't ever date again since he was with Misty now and she had Hunter but there friendship alone at least deserved it.

   "Here you go."

Looking up at his for a second Katie searches his face. He really did look like he was doing well and for that she was happy. Not to mention Misty was probley making sure he was taking better care of himself too. Giving a little smile she sits back up and lets out a small sigh.

   "I was wondering if maybe you'd like to go to lunch today with me....Just as friend...I don't expect anything more and if you feel better you can bring Misty along too. I just...I'd like to talk to you about a few things. If you feel more comfortable eating here too...thats...thats alright as well."

Picking up the phone and hearing it was Justin Misty was a bit surprised but excited and nervous too. She didn't think he'd be calling again so soon, and she hoped nothing was wrong but on the other hand she wondered if it had to do with seeing Mackenzie more too.

   "Hey Justin!"

Hearing that her family wanted to put Mackenzie into t troubled girls home Misty would have argued. She wasn't a troubled girl, she was just confused and having a hard time dealing with the changed in her life. A place like that was not for her. Hearing Justin had argued the point she was thankful. At least the girl had someone who was sticking up for her.

   "Yes we would love to still see her more. If you want to come over tomorrow for dinner we can swing that."

Giving a few hacking coughs Victoria puts her hand over her mouth before sniffing as well to follow it up. Looking at Garret her eyes give a small twinkle again.

   "Man, I do feel like I am coming down with something. Just out of no where I am feeling a little crappy."

A small chuckle follows as she stands up again she new that staying here much longer than she already had could be a bad thing and she shouldn't linger. But it was hard not too. Being able to talk to Garret in the light of day, seeing his face as the sun shone on it, it was something she enjoyed and wish she could more.

   "Mmmm..and I love you more and more every moment.  One day...one day we will go on a mission together and we will know whats its like to be free...even if its only for a few hours."

Sorry

Garret bites his lip to keep from grinning too much. Victoria had gotten her way - like she usually did. And even though he didn't like breaks, part of him really was glad that he'd be able to rest for a while. Maybe he could get his head back on straight and quit dwelling on his desire to flee. He'd been more foolish than ever during this past mission, whether it was drug-induced depression or not. He still shouldn't have acted on what he felt, like he had.

"I... think I'll probably stick around here." For more reasons that one. First, he liked it here. Second, Victoria was here. And third, he'd be nearer Medridge and the doctor who were still using him as a guinea pig. Not that he liked that - he hated it. But he was hooked, whether he wanted to admit it or not, and if anything went wrong, he'd be here. 

"I wouldn't mind a few extra nights in our spot," he muses. "You'll just have to come down sick or something so you don't get assigned to too much." He'd like to suggest that he go to the beachfront property and they come up with some scheme to get Victoria there too... but he knew it would never work. If they were anywhere near alone, they'd be bound to slip up and get caught. 

Sighing, he nods. "I'll talk to Medridge - apparently he's not going to have me executed." Cocking his head, he gives Victoria a once over, letting his gaze come to rest on her face once again. "Thanks..." His tone lowers to a whisper as he refrains from standing and wrapping his arms around her. "I love you more every day." 

"Hi, Misty, this is Justin Hawks." Sitting in his office at home the next day, he leans back in his chair amidst a clutter of papers, a dying plant, his lunch, and who knows what else underneath the organized chaos. Rick had answered the infirmary phone, but he'd only had to wait a minute or two for Misty. 

"Listen, um... I've been talking to Ken - Mackenzie's adopted father. I've been trying my best to keep the family from putting Mackenzie in a facility for troubled kids - I still think she just needs a little more time. That said, I'm taking the risk of opposing other counselors and hoping that you and Alec would still like to see Mackenzie more often. If you do, I'd like to sit down with both of you and discuss some of the issues and ways to handle Mackenzie, should any trouble arise. I've been given permission by Ken to tell you both all you need to know." 

"Gunner, look ou-" Susanne cringes, knowing she'd spoken too late. Having just exited her office, she'd been just in time to see Gunner and Jason on a collision course - neither one paying attention to where they were going, both with their noses stuck in open files they were reading. 

The two men round the corner from opposite sides and smack right into each other. With a cry of surprise, papers go flying.

"Oh crap." Gunner blinks and looks down at the mess. "Whoopsies."

"Aw, I'm sorry." Jason kneels to pick up the papers - apparently Gunner had latched onto his own, so it was only Jason's that were now spread all over the floor.

Gunner bends as well. "Here, let me help."

"No, it's okay, really. If I pick them up in order, it'll be easier."

"Alrighty. Suit yourself."

Jason gives him a wry grin. "Thanks. Get back to work before you blame me for this."

Gunner smirks, but takes up his route again. "Yeah, yeah." 

As Jason continues to retrieve his papers on hands and knees, he realizes that they'd crashed just outside Katie's cubicle, and some of his papers had slid into her space. Standing up, he gives the wall a quick knock before bending to pick up his work. "Sorry," he apologizes quickly. 

Slack

Giving Garret an almost sly smile Victoria leans on the railing of the porch a little bit. How well that had gotten at this game. Playing like they merely worked together, maybe a little lust but nothing they would act one. They had mastered the art of throwing people off and in a way it was sicking not being able to really express themselves to one another.

   "I just told my grandfather how awful it would be if one of his best agents got warn to thin and wasn't on his A-game witch might lead to something even worse happening."

Though Victoria pulled off the look of just talking her eyes gave a twinkle though to Garret something she new only he would see. She was happy he was getting time off she thought he needed it even if he didn't want to admit it. Every one got worn thing once and a while.

   "You're gonna have to owe me though because I'm gonna have to pick up your slack I think."

Giving Garret a wink Victoria didn't know if she really would have to pick up his slack or not. Maybe a little week because four weeks was a long time to go without one of the major agents. If Garret choose to take his break here at the estate though she'd be able to see him more and than pleased her.

    "Just make sure you let Medridge know if you wanna stay here, or go else where to relax."

How?

Seeing Victoria coming near, Garret was a little surprised. It wasn't often that she ventured to the guard house, simply to avoid arousal of suspicion. Sitting up a little straighter, he gives her a little nod as a greeting, even though he'd rather grab her by the waist and pull her into his lap. 

"Yeah... I think I'm feeling a little better, thanks." He gives her a rueful grin. "Things just got the best of me there, I guess. You shouldn't worry though... worry kills people." As if there was nothing else around here that took lives. 

"Four weeks, huh? I'll be right as rain in one, let alone four. I might even get bored." He quirks an eyebrow. "How'd you pull it off anyway? Getting me time off, I mean." 

Worried

Continuing to stand Victoria felt like jumping for joy inside, excited that Garret would be given the time off he ended, But on the outside everything remained the same. Her facial expression, and her stature never moved from how it was. To show joy over thing would surly give it away that they were involved more than working together.

   "I think four week should be more than enough for him to recover, and get himself together again."

Giving a nod Victoria waits till she is sure her grandfather is done talking to her and dismiss her before she turns to leave. Making her way out of the office she wasn't sure where Garret was right now but she'd find him. She was good, but she could track him.

...It wasn't to much later that Victoria was making her way across the yard and to the small house where she new now Garret was. Looking out one of the windows she'd spotted him on the porch. Getting closer she gives a small smile but not to much noting some people might be inside.

   "Medridge gave you four weeks off to recover and regroup. He said you could stay here or be moved to one of the other properties, the choose is yours."

Moving a little Victoria looks around for a moment making sure no one was close before leaning a little closer to Garret. Anyone from a distance would just think the were talking about work or his time away but it would take someone closer to know anything else.

   "Feeling any better today? You look like you got a little more sleep. I was really worried about you Garret, I never want anything bad to you."

You May

Garret sits in a chair on the porch of the small house, looking out across the sprawling yard and up to the main house. A light rain had been coming down since early that morning and had not let up. He was thankful that he'd been giving a day of medical leave for his shoulder, even though his wound wasn't all that bad.

Leaning back, he sighs deeply, breathing in the cool damp air. He'd tried to figure out their location by weather patterns, but so far hadn't had much luck. Not that he researched it often - if anybody found out that he was trying to figure out where they were, that would just be one more reason for him to be shot in the head.

Glancing down, he flexes his arm, looking at the fresh needle mark. He was going to have to talk to Medridge about changing his dosage - it was doing nothing for his moods, and probably making them worse. Medridge would probably be thrilled to discover something negative about their latest serum. Garret hoped that it was the drug that had caused him to get down so low the last couple days - if not, he had a bigger problem.

Rolling down his sleeve, he buttons the cuff before looking back up to the main house. And his mind wanders to Victoria, like it usually did.


Medridge sits behind his desk and looks up at Victoria thoughtfully. He trusted his granddaughter. She had a good head on her shoulders and was one of his best agents. He never sent her out on mindless jobs or meaningless assignments - those were kept for the brainless peons. No, Victoria was special, and he'd made sure she had the training to stay alive.

Now about Garret...

Medridge rises from his chair and slowly walks to the window, clasping his hands behind his back as he thinks. "I'm glad to see that you are keeping an eye on him. We've had our differences, but if there's one man I don't want to lose, it's him. I know sometimes my judgment becomes clouded by personal feelings."

Turning, he studies Victoria for several moments. "He's like a son to me. Or, grandson, as it were. He's learning fast the way we operate and has made some very wise observations that have saved us many resources. I've often toyed with the idea of removing him from the field, but he's too good there as well."

He sighs deeply. "But...if I cannot protect those I hold most dear, then I can protect no one." He smiles. "You're probably right. I have been pushing him very hard lately. Although, it is also good to know a man's limits. I would hate to think he has already reached his."

Turning around again, he stares back out at the rain. "However... I will not be around forever to make these kinds of decisions. Therefore, you may inform him that he has four weeks of rest. He may spend it here or at one of our other properties."

You think

Continuing to study Garret Victoria shakes her head. She had no answers to his questions, and there would be even more questions if she could. This wasn't always fare this they had but it was there life and its just how it was. 

   "We can say I wish and what if still we are blue in the face Garret but the truth is out there...it's death for us. We will be hunter till we around and killed. Being out there and living a normal life sounds nice but...its not what we were born into."

Leaning her head into Garret's hand a little Victoria closes her eyes for a second before opening them again and just searching his face. She could see how tired his eyes were, and she could hear it in his voice. If she had all the answers would that be better?

   "As long as you have me your heart will never turn to stone. Tomorrow I'm going to talk to my grandfather about getting you some time off. I don't like how your acting right now its scaring me."

Sure they talked about getting out before, what life would be like on the outside together. But just something about how Garret was talking today she didn't like it.

   "You've got to snap out of it because the next time we meet your in a pine box."

...And when the next day comes she did go to her grandfather. Giving a knock on the door and waiting for his voice Victoria enters. She stood tall and elegant in front of her grandfather like she often did. 

   "It's my job to know everything that goes on. It's how I can serve better and the last thing I heard was about the slip up Garret made. It's very unlike him for something like that to happen and I was thinking maybe he needs a little time off."

Victoria wanted to shift out of being uncomfortable, scared she might say the wrong thing and give herself away. Her words were chosen wisely, she'd thought about it all night and now she just had to exacute it. 

   "He's out best, top of the rank and dang good at his job. The last thing we need is our best getting burned out. Don't you agree?"

Circles

Jason chuckles and sinks a little lower in the couch, putting his feet up on the coffee table. Misty might have some kind of motherly glow, but she was beautiful whether she was pregnant or not. He'd always thought so.

Yawning, he watches the movie with tired interest as his eyes begin to grow heavy. It had been a long day and it was finally catching up to him. He knew if he was alone, he'd be lying in bed tossing and turning. But with Misty here... she was so warm and comfortable under his arm... so relaxed...

It didn't take long for his breathing to slow, signaling he'd fallen asleep.


"Cory just... got in the way," Garret responds lamely. "He just... got in the way." It was the truth. But only partially. They'd staked out that warehouse for two days and on day three, they'd finally been able to move in. And when they did, Garret had found himself alone with a clear route... to freedom. He'd never taken advantage before. Never. But something inside of him had seemed to snap. Slipping away from his position, he'd aimed for that door... the door that would lead out to the bay where he would disappear. But Cory had seen him. Stopped him. Questioned him. Suspected him. And Garret, fearing his slip in judgment to be exposed, had shot him. And that shot had started a mini war, throwing the whole mission into upheaval. He had dared, for one moment to grasp the tattered edge of a dream, only to discover his foolishness.

Blinking, Garret pushes the images from his mind to bring Victoria's face back into focus. It takes a few seconds for her words to register, as if he'd been in a momentary daze.

"I don't know if it's even possible to relax anymore," he counters wearily. This was a life of wealth and frills. Anything anybody wanted right at their fingertips. But somehow it had all lost its appeal... ever since Cassandra.

His eyes fall shut once more, his fingers gently running back and forth through Victoria's hand. "I'm just so tired... in here." He taps his chest. "I never thought I could tire of this life. But I have... and I don't know if I can recover or not. Suddenly nothing makes sense. Like discovering all along, I've just been a rat in a formulated maze, prompted to the end over and over and over, and like a robot, I have obeyed. One wrong move is certain death. Yet there is a sick side to it all that lures people in - that keeps them addicted to the glamor and power. As much as I am sickened by this prison, I wonder if I ever really could walk away." He'd started to today, but would he really have followed through? He'd never know. "Maybe this isn't the nightmare at all - maybe it's the outside world that truly is, and we're better off here than anywhere else." It was a pitiful conclusion, but the safest.

Letting go of her hand, he opens his eyes before lifting his palm to her face, his thumb running slowly down her cheek, over he lips, then back to her cheek again. "You and I are cursed. Cursed with a forbidden love. When does a man finally break under the agony?"

He was talking in circles, but whether he realized it or not wasn't clear. Was he finally losing his mind?

"Sometimes I feel I am losing my heart. That it is slowly turning to stone, allowing me to continue each assignment of insanity. But how long can a man live with a stone in his chest? Perhaps longer than I think - your grandfather has no heart. But why would a man even want to live without a heart?"

He stares into Victoria's eyes, desperately searching for something real to grasp. "Without a heart... can I still love?"

Relax

No Victoria didn't blame him for his mind being far away. Sometimes to get through the days and the missions she didn't want to do the most she would put herself somewhere else. Take herself far away where she was with Garret and only him. Where his hands that were the only ones that ever touched her skip. Far away...she'd like to leave and forget about this place sometimes.

   "No I don't blame you at all. Sometimes...I dream of that place too and wonder if it's really out there."

Letting out a small sigh and still holding Garret's hand Victoria cocks her head unable to help the surprise on the news of Cory. He was annoying and Victoria didn't much care for him. She didn't like the way he talked to her, or looked at her. It was better if he was gone but to hear Garret was the one who killed him...it was a bit surprising. He was usually good with his temper. What had gone wrong?

   "Cory had it coming for a long time. What happened though? Did he try to throw a plan or something I mean..."

Silent again Victoria's face coursed with even more worry. If Garret was starting to slip up it was only a matter of time before he wouldn't be able to cover it and than...cretin death would come. And if that were to happen, Victoria would surly die of a broken heart.

    "Maybe you should see about a few days off or something. Relax here, regroup, be pampered...I could talk to my grandfather and maybe get you some time to get it together again."

Looking up at Jason Misty smiles and nods her head. She didn't mind how many times he told her..she still liked hearing it. It was nice, and just having him speak it freely was wonderful.

   "You did but you can tell me again I don't mind. I think I have a motherly glow about me or something."

Giving a laugh and turning her head to lean it on Jason's chest again. Her hand finding his as she runs her thumb over his fingers. She was feeling tired but not ready to say goodnight. She was tired of being home alone so maybe she'd just stay here a little longer where she felt safe, and loved.