Family night

Hearing the commotion outside, Carson quirks his eyebrow at Axel, wiping his hands on a towel. "Sounds like a herd of elephants."

"Nah." Axel shakes his head. "Prolly just more girls."

Laughing, Carson heads to the door, but Misty has it open before he gets there. Hearing Dalton's cry for help, he just stands there with his hands on his hips. "If you can't handle a couple of women, you got a problem."

A shriek is heard down the hallway and Carson whirls around just in time to see his sister, who had thought the coast was clear before dashing from the bathroom to her bedroom, in only a towel. She hadn't known anyone else had arrived yet, and thought her brother and Axel were still out of sight.

Carson's eyebrows rise. "Hello! Everybody close your eyes, my sister's not quite ready."

"Carson!"

He grins, his eyes twinkling with mischief. "Come on, Dani," he calls. "Your boyfriend is here. You need help?"

"No!"

Carson laughs again and heads for Dalton. "How about I lend you a hand. I think you're easier to help than my sister." Taking some items from the big man, Carson glances at Misty to throw her a wink.

"Preening," Axel mumbles from the side. "Told ya. Preening." Spying Jess, a grin forms on his face. "Hey, Beautiful."

Dani grumbles in her bedroom as she hurriedly pulls on her form fitting jeans and peasant blouse. Running a brush through her hair, she tries to dry it out the best she can without taking time to blow dry it. Putting on just a little bit of pale lipstick, she gives herself a once-over in the mirror and rolls her eyes. It would have to do. Staying in her bare feet, she trots back down the hall, giving her brother's arm a good whack before offering a smile to the others, her cheeks slightly flushed. "Jess... Misty... hi, Dalton."


"Mm... sounds like a plan to me." Gage meant it. Right now, he really didn't care what they did. He was just happy to be with Sapphire and be free during the holidays for the first time. It was like starting fresh with new eyes and everything was interesting and exciting. The past couple days had been a little stressful, but after pushing it all aside, he felt good and he didn't want to let it go.

"I've got some popcorn in the cupboard, and I still got a couple cans of pop in the fridge. Not too festive, but it might tide us over 'til supper while we watch the movies."


Watching Ryan leave, Alec doesn't even move for the longest time. He just stares at the empty doorway as if watching to see someone come back through. But it remained empty, and the air remained quiet.

Reaching to his chest, he feels the chain under his shirt. Maybe his emotions were just dormant, waiting to be awoken again. Like a single drop of water plummeting from an icicle and crashing to the ground below, it was the first sign of spring.

Sighing, Alec straightens up and roots around on his cot until finding a comfortable position to look through the new magazines. It was the only thing he had to pass the time, and he'd rather think about fast cars than the date on the calendar. Would Ryan really come back tomorrow? He wondered.


Seeing the look of worry in his sister's eyes made Trent all the more concerned. This shouldn't be happening. Not now, not any time. Why couldn't he get any answers? Why couldn't he find any information? It wasn't fair. Not on Christmas Eve.

A bad feeling in his gut reminded him that if he kept digging, there might be news he didn't want to hear. Surely someone would have contacted them if something worse had happened... but not much time had passed. Maybe they just hadn't gotten to them yet. Trent knew if he found out bad news, he would wait to tell Rosetta until after tonight at least. He just hoped and prayed that there had been some horrid misunderstanding. There was still a chance he'd been wrong about the truck he'd seen on television. At the same time though, Eric still hadn't returned his call.


I guess we'll wait and see what happens. I know Reese doesn't have plans 'til tomorrow, so I'd bet you anything he's in the office today.

Jason squeezes Katie's hand, feeling the mix of emotions being drawn from him. He knew how she felt now and he felt the same. But they had to make the best of it.

At least we got each other.

A smile spreads on his face as they come back into the ranch yard from coming full circle. "I'm thinking hot chocolate... how about it?"


"Yeah, I've ridden a time or two." Ryder finds a spot the mare likes to be scratched and gives her some extra attention, smiling. "Maybe when we go back to Nevada, we can find a place that might let you get on a horse sometime, ay?"


So many thoughts and emotions, so many wishes and so many realities, but it's all the same day, the day that goes by more quickly than anybody would want. It's a special day on the calendar, but that doesn't seem to matter. The same amount of hours reside within it as any other day.

Jason and Katie spend most of the day together just relaxing away from their jobs and enjoying family. Ryder coaxes Thirteen to do a little "exploring" with him around the ranch so they can take a walk and enjoy the outdoors, later returning to the dining hall where most are gathering.

By the time it's usually time for supper, most everyone had made it back to the dining hall. Chores were done early tonight and a cold wind had picked up, making everyone all the more glad to be inside near the crackling fireplace...

Sparky strums the soothing chords on his guitar, leading the traditional Christmas singing. Some join in, while others busy themselves around the kitchen, making hot chocolate, pouring eggnog and getting out the snacks for the night. Jason had been conned into playing his guitar as well, as supposed, and he sits near Sparky, picking out the melody and singing harmony with him, creating a sound that soothed the soul.

Sparky's eyes find Faith and his singing seems to be directed at her most of the time, more than just a Christmas spirit in his gaze.
Trent stays back away from the group, coming and going as he continues to make phone calls, while trying not to worry anyone else, and keeping Rosetta updated on his lack of findings.
Jeff sits next to Katie, teasing her in between songs and thoroughly enjoying her presence. Behind them are Clint, Wendy and Chase, Clint making a spectacle out of himself at least twice.
Cindy sits off to the side with Wes, Kaylee on her lap, and her own head nestled against her husband's chest. This night meant more to her than just getting together. She was grasping for all the family time she could get before Wes left, and though it was a sweet time, it was also a reminder that soon, this warmth would fade until he returned.
Jim and Becky mingle with the others, part of the time alone in a corner just enjoying the scene, and part of the time right in the midst of the activity.
Ryder wanders around from the group to the kitchen, having more fun teasing the women in the kitchen than singing songs he didn't know. He made sure Thirteen was content and comfortable too though, not leaving her alone unless he saw she was okay.
JT makes sure that Bree at least sits in the dining room for a while. Even though this isn't their family, they are welcomed anyway, and the warmth can't help but descend on them as well. A few times, JT catches Amanda's eyes, feeling that there was more happening here than just a temporary shelter. They were growing closer... and he couldn't say he minded.

In between singing, there is chatting, laughter and gift-giving. Nothing is scheduled or planned and to some it might seem chaotic, but to this big family, nothing could be better. There was no official song time or gift time, it all just happened, overlapping and intertwined in all the joy and fun. Gifts are given and received, hugs and kisses are displayed and many are teased but it's all in good fun.

Amidst all the gift-giving, one little box winds up given to Thirteen, but there is no name showing who it is from. The tag only says "Thirteen," with no other explanation. When she would open it, she would find a dainty gold ring with her birthstone - an emerald, set between two tiny diamonds. Someone who had chosen to remain anonymous had good taste and a good guess at what size it should be.

HELP!

Pulling to the side of the road Dalton sits for a moment before getting out making sure his shirt was unwrinkled and he had everything he needed. He'd told Carson he would bring the drinks tonight and he was happy he at least remembered that.

Seeing another car approach Dalton squints a little bit to look out the window. Seeing Jess get out of her car he smiles. He'd only met her once, but his memorie didn't fail him as he remembered who she was.

Getting out of his car he grabs the bag of soda, and the case of beer. Making his way over to Jess to see if she needed any help.

"Hey Jess. I guess I know I'm not late."

Turning around from the sound of a voice Jess face breaks out in a bawd smile. It was always was nice seeing old friends again and it had been a long time since she saw Dalton even if she could only remember his nickname and not his real name.

"Hey there. Your not late, but we might be early."

Turning back to the car Jess pulls out a large paper bag with some gifts in it, smile and giving a small nod at Dalton.

"Think you could hold this for me, for a moment?"

Taking the bag from Jess Dalton gladly held it for her while she pulled the other bags out of the car. She'd been in charge of bringing the sweet stuff. Jess had spent all day backing cookies, brownies, cake, and chocolate covered strawberrys.

"Ok, I think I got everything thanks Dalton."

"Not a problem, I have the arm room I might as well use it."

Making there way to the front door Jess and Dalton's arms are full as they laugh and joke to each other climbing the few steps. Standing outside the door they look at each other with a grin.

"Maybe we should start singing!"

"I wouldn't do that if I were you. Last time I tryed, I think the people at Carson's old place were going to kill me."

Pulling up the rear Misty smile at her two friends. Pizza and chicken wings in hand it was her job to grab the main course. In her other hand were a bag of gifts as well. Looking at Daltons Misty smiles.

"Can you hold these?"

Passing off the pizzas to Dalton his arms were not toally full carrying his own stuff, Jess, and Misty's.

Fishing in her purse for a moment Misty finally finds the keys to the apartment and put them int eh lock and giving it a turn opening the door.

"There we go, might well just walk right in if we can."

Entering the house the trio laughs making there presence known. Looking at the two ladys and than his arms full of stuff Dalton cant help himself.

"Help, some body, any body...these girls are trying to over load and kill me."

"Merry Christmas Alec. I'll be back sometime tomorrow to bring your some Christmas dinner. It has to be better than eating whatever they give you here."

Heading twords the door Ryan felt good though she wish she could of done more for Alec, sitting here, alone on Christmas that was a crappy way for anyone to spend. But there really was nothing more for her to do, at least she had seen that little dim glow in Alec's eyes. It was a start.

Almost getting to the door Ryan stops at Alec says thank you. For a moment she thinks maybe she had miss heard him but turning and look at him in the eyes Ryan's lips turn into a smile. Made her had done more than she though she had.

"Your welcome! Try and have a good one ok?"

Turning to leave again Ryan was gone remembering tomorrow she would be back with more food, and books for Alec.

Giving an even bigger smile Sapphire slides off chair and stands. Putting her arm around Gage's shoulders Sapphire thinks for a long moment on what else they could do today.

"Well..I have some Christmas movies we can watch together I thought you might like that. Than I was thinking tonight after dark we could take a drive and look at how difference people have there houses up with lights."

Giving a smile Sapphire didn't know if Gage would like the idea or not but it was something she did every years by herself and she thought maybe this year it would be nice to have someone come along and share the fun.

Letting out a long sigh Rosetta didn't know what to do ether. She was worried sick about her brother, and didn't know what to even do now. If something was wrong someone would call family right? But why wouldn't he himself call and say he was going to be late? Was it the Agency?

"Ok, you call the last few places you can.."

Rosetta lets out a long drawn out breath. She was getting to old for this kind of stress, why did all this have to happen, now?

"I'm going to try and gather some of the other to see if they can help with a few things to get ready for tonight. If we still don't hear anything...than...I...don't know what we will do. I just want to find him Trent. I want to know he's ok and not dieing somewhere."

Rosetta looked deep into Trent's eyes her own showing her worry. Turning Rosetta heads into the living room where BJ was sitting with his checker bored waiting for someone to play with him.

Keeping her hand linked with Jason's Katie felt worried herself about her Uncle, and felt even worse for Rosetta.

Yeah, I am worried but I think I feel worse for my aunt. With everything else going on she just wanted to try and enjoy the holiday. She already is not going to have her husband here and now her brother too.

Letting out a sigh Katie pulled on Jason's emotions that showed she was worried yet happy Jason was there with her. At least if anything happened she wouldn't have to deal with it on her own.

I'd hate to bother Reese on Christmas, but if it comes down to it, it wouldn't be a bad idea.

Standing by Ryder Thirteen gentile pets the horses neck. It felt so soft, and petting the large horse had a comforting tone to it. It almost felt really relaxing.

"She's so soft and pretty. They are more amazing up close."

Bringing her face to the soft fur Thirteen takes a wif of the horse. She smelled almost like fresh air and apples. She liked the smell, it was different but there was just...something about it.

"Have you ever been riding before Ryder?"

Tense Eve

"Yeah, I gotta go back since still nothing has changed... but she let me have today and tomorrow with the promise if the pain got worse or anything happened, I'd tell her." Axel leans back against the counter and pops a celery stick with cream cheese into his mouth, raiding the snack tray before it was even finished.

Carson works in the kitchen and chuckles. "Trust me. Once she gets here, she'll watch you like a hawk."

"I thought you were the one she was watching." Axel glances at his friend coyly.

Carson looks up and shakes a knife at his friend. "You better believe it."

A grin spreads on Axel's face and he holds up his arm, the other resting in a sling. "Hey, I don't care. I got my own woman to look at me."

Laughing again, Carson returns to making up snacks that would last all evening. "And when is your date arriving?"

"Oh, any time. She said she had some running around to do. Speaking of which, where's your sister?"

"Shopping." Carson rolls his eyes. "She's crazy to shop Christmas eve."

"Mmm, well, she shouldn't be too long, if Dalton is coming."

"This is true." Carson pauses in front of the stove as if lost in thought. "If she goes on and on about the Hulk one more time, I'm gonna puke."

Axel laughs outright. "Aw, now you'd be disappointed if Misty didn't go on and on about you, wouldn't you?"

"I don't care what she says to other people. It's what she says to me that I'm worried about."

"Ooh, like 'I do'?"

Carson grins. "Yeah, maybe."

Axel chuckles again and shakes his head. "Well, give your sister a break. Pretty soon you'll be moving into Misty's apartment and you won't have to listen to Dani rant about her boyfriend anymore."

"Heh, yeah." Though thrilled with the prospect of marriage to Misty and moving to her place, Carson had to admit to himself at least, that he'd miss having his sister around all the time.

Axel seems to read his friend's eyes. "At least you'll still have her every day at work."

"Oh, yes. Far as I know she's satisfied with the job so far."

Hearing a car outside, Axel wanders to the window to look down to ground level. "Speak of the devil."

"What? Dani, already? She certainly didn't shop very long."

"You know women... she probably plans on two hours of preening before Dalton gets here."

Carson laughs, finding a big bowl for the corn chips. "You better be quiet before she gets in here, or you'll never hear the end of it."

Axel's eyes widen. "Or she might sic Dalton on me. I can handle a lot of things but..."

"There's nothing like getting pinned by a giant."


Something twitches Alec's lips almost forming a smile... almost. "Yeah, talking to dead people isn't very fun. Only good thing is, they can't argue with ya."

Sighing a little, he watches Ryan prepare to leave, something in his eye resembling disappointment. "Well, um..." Yeah, feeling a loss of emotions did suck, especially when wanting to feel more than just a touch when she'd patted his hand.

He hesitates, not even sure what words he was looking for. "Merry Christmas I guess."

His eyes drop again. He felt like he should be calloused and mean again so nobody got the wrong idea but this day just didn't feel like the others. He wasn't sure what had created this mellow feeling, but it didn't seem worth the effort to get rid of it now.

"And uh... thanks."


Gage smiles down at Sapphire, his eyes mirroring the emotions. "I still don't know why a friendship of mine could mean so much to you but... I'm sure glad it does. 'Cause without you around, I don't know how much would be worth the effort anymore."

He sways a little, his arms still around her. "So... what are we doing the rest of the day?"


Trent shakes his head, sinking down into a chair again. It had been several hours. "Not a thing. I don't know what to do. I got a couple more hospitals I can call, but I doubt they'll have anything - they're pretty far from the scene of the accident. Nobody's got Eric as a patient and I can't get through any other way."

He sighs deeply. By now, Jeff knew and the word was slowly spreading. No one was in a panic, but it wasn't good. "I don't know what else to do."


Heard about Eric. Wish I could help out somehow.

Jason walks alongside Katie as they ambled around the ranch hand-in-hand. He'd come to the ranch shortly after breakfast to join in with everyone else.

I can see everybody still trying to have a good time and be in good spirits, but it's hard. If Trent can't find Eric maybe we can call back to TJY and get somebody else on it.


"She's pretty, isn't she?" Ryder pets the sleek neck of the mare who stood patiently in the barn, letting him and Thirteen brush and pet her. One of the guys had gotten her out of the stall for them and Ryder enjoyed seeing Thirteen around the big gentle animal.

Things inside had gotten a little tense and Ryder had heard about Eric. It was hard knowing that it was Thirteen's uncle and she didn't even know it. But he held his tongue, swinging wide of Trent for now. But his patience was growing thin. Not only was Trent being quiet, he was downright avoiding them, and it just wasn't setting well with Ryder.

Disapointed

Trying to understand what Alec was talking about, with the Agency, the Elite who they were and what they did. She'd never really heard about them before till now. Once she over heard Carson talking to Axel, but she didn't continue to listen to even start to understand.

"Carson lives a normal life though Alec, I've even met him. "

Letting out a small sigh Ryan sits a little stranger. Her arms on the edge of the cot like she was going to get up, but she doesn't move.

"I don't know what the Agency is like, I've never looked intothem like the people here have, I've never fraught against them, or even taken an interest in them, so I guess I can't try and convince you I understand. But I can tell you I know how it feels, to feel like you have lost all emotions without a way out and it sucks."

Drawing quiet again for a moment Ryan just stairs at the wall across from the cot Ryan's own mind wanders for a brief moment before pulling herself back. Standing she gives a strech upwards. Some time had passed and like before she hardly even though any had gone by. At least this time she wasn't going to be late for work. Reaching out she gives Alec's hand a little pat. Her touch was warm, as light.

"Even if a little bit of the Agency will be with you forever you can still take you own life back. Even one has demons that hide, some worse than others but we all have them. Six months to grow cold with the Agency but it can take less than that to get you feelings back. They are there Alec, deep inside, I can see them in your eyes even if you cant feeling them."

Taking her jacket from where she had set it down on the small table Ryan puts it on again. Leo would be waiting for her to come over soon in a few hours.

"Disappointment is a part of life, and something I've grown use to. Not to mention its to late to turn back now, I already consider you a friend. Oh yeah, and I'm glad they haven't shot. It wouldn't be nice talking to a dead corpse."

Seeing the look on Gage's face as he holds his new watch Sapphire can't help the beaming smile that crossed her face. She was so happy he liked it, and felt is was special. Watching him figure out how to set the time made a warm feeling wash over her. He was so into figuring it out, yet handling it with such great care so it didn't break.

As Gage comes over to her Sapphire hands wrapping her own arms around Gage's neck. Giving him a gentile squeeze back.

"I'm so happy you liked it. I love you picture to me as well...you did a really really good job Gage. Its going to go right on my mantel at home."

Pulling away and catching Gage's eyes with her own, they twinkled so bright. Being here with him was so nice and she enjoyed the warm feelings it gave her. In a way it reminded her of Christmas long ago as well with her family. The joy in everyone's eyes, and the happiness that was shared. She was happy that she was able to give that gift to Gage as well.

"Well, this is out first Christmas together, and so far its already been so special I'm happy we get to spend it together too. You gave me another gift too Gage, your friendship."

Pacing herself as phone calls were being made, Rosetta was becoming frustrated. How could they not give out any info to them when it was there brother. It just didn't seem far or right. Who knows where Eric was, and how badly he was hurt on top of it.

Trying to keep her mind busy she helps clean up the breakfast dishes, hardly having anything to eat herself. Her own apatite just flown out the window. Once the table was cleared Rosetta helped BJ with a puzzle he was working on...every time Trent was off the phone she perked up again and this time was no different.

"Anything yet? What if we cant find him, than what?"

Soldier

"All they said was that the trucker was injured and taken to the hospital. It was in Arkansas on the interstate..." Trent's mind reels as he tries to think of what they could do to find more information. If Eric had died, the authorities would have contacted them, so it couldn't be that serious, right?

"Let me call the tv station." Trent goes for his cell phone. "They might tell me where exactly the story came from."

He saw the tv's number on the screen every morning - it was no surprise he had it memorized. The call takes longer than liked, but there's nothing that can speed it up, and by the time Trent hangs up, he's been pacing and is now frustrated. "They won't give me any information," he growls. "Something about third parties."

Opening his phone again, he dials Eric on whim. "Maybe I was wrong," he reasons. "Maybe it wasn't Eric's truck." His eyes tell otherwise though. He knew he hadn't been mistaken.

Hanging up, he shakes his head at his sister. "No answer. If he's on the road, he'll see I called though, and call me back." Sinking down in a chair again, Trent lets out a long sigh. This wasn't the kind of thing he liked hearing on Christmas.

Little did he realize that the rest of the day would be spent trying to find hospitals in Arkansas in search for Eric without gaining any ground. No call from Eric, and still they couldn't find him.


Ryder wanted to convince Thirteen not to continue thinking about finding her father, but he knew at this point, it was useless to argue. If Trent didn't reveal himself, maybe one day she would learn to give it up.

Glancing in Trent's direction, there appears to be something wrong, but whatever it was, was being kept quiet. Maybe there was more than one thing going on in this family that was creating stress.

"Hmm?" Ryder looks back to Thirteen before realizing what she'd just asked. "Oh, yeah... yeah, let's go get some food. I'm starving."

Standing up, he offers her his hand to lead her to the kitchen to fill up their plates. Afterward, he'd try to find Jason and see if they could go to the barn so Thirteen could see the horses.


Seeing that Sapphire really did like the picture, Gage doesn't realize that he's beaming. He'd created something all on his own, it had turned out better than planned, and she liked it. It was a very new sensation... and one that he liked. It made him feel warm on the inside.

Taking the small package that was for him, he hesitates. Sapphire had given him things before, but not in this manner. Being more careful than needed, he slips his fingers through the tape around the edges and unwraps the gift.

Finding the watch, his eyes linger on it several moments before he dares to take it out of its box and finger it, then noticing the message on the back. Lifting his eyes, he looks at Sapphire, his gaze sparkling. He'd never received anything like this before. He'd been wearing a watch, but it was a cheap thing from the gas station, held together with duct tape by now.

"Wow..." He looks back at the face, loving the tiger. And his name was on it too. Putting it on his wrist, he admires it some more before figuring out how to set the right time. This meant a whole lot more to him than just a time piece, and it always would.

Standing up, he goes around to Sapphire, pulling her up too so he could wrap his arms around her in a strong hug. "Thank you... I love it."

Drawing his head back, he plants a kiss on her lips. "I feel like this is my first Christmas ever... and I'm glad that I get to spend it with you."


Ryan's words seem to hit a nerve, and Alec falls quiet again for several minutes until the french fries are all gone, and he's cleaning up the wrappers and bag.

"The Agency holds people long after they're gone," he responds. "As a civilian, you probably don't know anything about them... the Elite is really the only ones that do. But..."

Why he wanted Ryan to understand, he wasn't sure. But for some reason, he felt like explaining. "...the Agency is at war with the world. They've got sets of rules and principles that go against normal laws. Right and wrong don't really exist. People are killed... tortured... and sometimes it's just for the fun of it."

He gives a little nod, showing that he was one of the men that had committed those kinds of acts. "And when you've been a part of it long enough... you just get... hard. I've only been with them about six years... but it only takes six months to be immersed into their way of thinking. Even the strongest eventually break. I was a rebel without a cause as a teenager, and I was a prime target for recruitment. I didn't realize at the time that I was half-brother to one of their best men."

Alec eyes her for a moment. "Carson... the brute who came with the big boss to pick me up that night I broke into the auto shop. He somehow got himself pulled back into this world and onto the side of the Elite. Killed his own woman too. Now he's got a nice little life going for him, but deep down... part of the Agency still exists. It's not something you can just lose or get rid of whenever you like. It's like a virus that never leaves your body. It's just there. Maybe not always evident, but then it crops up again as a reminder that you're not really free."

Glancing down to the magazines and feeling the chain under his shirt, he feels the emotions deep down that hadn't seen the light of day in many years. "You just get... calloused. You don't feel anymore. Nothing hurts, but nothing feels good either. Then you start trying to find ways to feel again and so you just end up getting kicks from more jobs killing people or finding a woman who doesn't care. But in the end..."

Alec shrugs lamely. "...in the end you're just an Agency soldier. And when you get caught, there's nowhere to run. Can't go back because they'll kill you as a security risk. Can't live a normal life because you're anything but normal. Me, I'm just waiting for the call to come in to haul me out to the prison. That's what murderers get. I'll be surprised if I don't get the death sentence. And in the meantime, I rot. I'd rather they just come and put a bullet through my head and get it over with."

Leaning back against the wall, his feet hang over the edge of the cot. "You're not like the others, Ryan... I'll give you that. But in the end, if you befriend me, you'll just end up disappointed."

Waiting for you

Listening to Trent Rosetta cant help the air that seemed to get caught in a throat as her eyes watered. Words wanted to come but for a moment they wouldn't as she just searched her brother's face for anything, any kind of confirmation he would be ok.

"Did they say where they took him or anything so we can call and find out where, and how he is?"

Though Rosetta was worried, she tried to stay calm for everyone else sake. She didn't want to work everyone up on Christmas eve unless she had too.

Sitting back in her chair Thirteen smiles at Ryder. She was happy his words made her feel good, but even if he said them a thousand times her heart could never rest till she new who her dad was.

"Keep telling me that ok Ryder? Maybe sooner or later I will be satisfied not knowing my dad, but till than...I still want to find him. He's not the only one who chooses, this is about me too."

Letting out a long sigh Thirteen turns her head to look out the window. She'd find her dad some day after giving him a hug she'd ask why he didn't know to know her, and even after that if he didn't what to see her again it would be ok. At least she could say she new who her father was.

"Should we get something to eat?"

Smiling back at Gage, Sapphire's own eyes had light to them hearing he would never tire of her coming over. For that she was thankful.

"I'd never tire of coming over myself. Who else would actually let me have a key to there front door."

Giving a laugh Sapphire takes the package from Gage holding it for a long moment. Turning it over once in her hand she looks up at him her eyes twinkling before back down at the package. Starting to unwrap it Sapphire does it with care untill finally the frame was unwrapped. Turning it over Sapphire is quiet for a long moment just looking at it. Her fingers running over the two faces. There were drawn perfectly and the detail was amazing.

"Gage...this is amazing. I...this is beautiful."

Continuing to look at it, Sapphire finally looks up at Gage beaming brightly. This is one of the best gift she had ever gotten and it came straight from the heart.

"This is the second picture of use, and I will cherish this one the most. Thank you Gage, I love it."

Setting the picture down gently the smile never left Sapphire's face as she stands going over to the small tree she pulls one of the medium size gifts out from under it and brings it back to the table. The paper was a sparkling blue color, with a nice little bow on top. On the inside was a silver watch custom made, with a brilliant orange tiger on the face, above it was his name. On the back was ingraved a message that said "Put one foot in front of the other, look forward and not behind. I'm proud of you Gage. -Saph"

Moving forward on the best herself Ryan once again takes in Alec's words. It amazed her how much he had built his walls, and yet there was a crack, how he could deny his feelings he new were there. Something held they at bay, pride, thinking it was a weakness..whatever it was it was holding Alec back from so much more.

"You eyes betray you Alec, you can still feel you just hold it at bay."

Thinking for another moment Ryan process the info about the Agency that must have been who Alec worked for. She didn't understand everything Alec went thought but she new what he ment about not feeling anything. She'd felt like that a long time after there father had died.

"The people you worked for, they don't have you anymore Alec. You not brainwashed, just confused. But life is still waiting for you when your ready."

Forgotten

Trent looks to his sister, the worry coursing through his eyes. "I just... saw on the news. They were reporting on weather-caused road accidents. They talked about a semi that went into the ditch, avoiding hitting this woman and her kid."

He swallows hard. "The driver was injured and taken to the hospital... it was late last night. They showed a picture of the truck... I know it was Eric's."


Ryder chuckles at Thirteen's comment about him being family. "You're pretty important to me too," he agrees.

But reverting to her previous statement, he shakes his head. "Love is complicated, Thirteeen. It shouldn't be, but it often is. You'd think if someone didn't want to see you that they didn't love you... but that isn't always the case. You can't really assume anything. But one thing you can do is be satisfied with who you have around you... and with who you are. Because you're important and you are loved."


Gage returns Sapphire's hug and grins at her as she sits down. "You kidding me? If I get tired of you, I get tired of the only company I got, so I better not."

His eyes twinkle to show that teasing aside, he could never get tired of her coming over. "Hmmm... the whole day?"

He fingers the package he'd just set aside before Sapphire had come in. "Well.... we could.... start by giving you this."

He scoots it over to Sapphire, slight color in his face. He didn't want to give her her gift in front of her parents tomorrow. He didn't even know if he'd done a good job or not. But it was all he had. He'd never given someone something like this before either, so he didn't want it sitting on his mind all day. If she didn't like it, or laughed at it, then he could get it over with and they'd have the rest of the day.

Gage hadn't had money for much of a gift, but he'd been able to find a deep blue and black picture frame that was just the right size and he'd emptied his loose change jar to get it. And framed was a sketch done with his own hand that had taken him hours under his dim light at night, trying to perfect it. He'd sketched a closeup headshot of Sapphire and himself together, working from memory and a mirror. Captured in the delicate pencil strokes was life in the eyes, as if they could shine right from the paper. Depth showed in the shadows and even the smallest details were captured ever so carefully with the one pencil he had. Facing each other, the faces were smiling faintly and an invisible wind toyed with loose strands of their hair.


Alec squints, trying to figure out where Ryan was coming from. It was hard to understand though. But after being brainwashed by the Agency, how could one expect him to understand simple kindness anymore? It was an act, an emotion that had been stripped from him, the day he'd joined the Agency. He wasn't an Agency baby... he'd had a life before that and during his service, he hadn't been like Gage, sheltered from the world. Yet there was so much he'd still missed out on or forgotten. ...And that was a hard fact to realize, let alone accept.

But maybe on a day like today... when loneliness had made its mark... when kindness had been shown regardless of the past... when a heart had just taken a small blow just enough to cause a tiny crack... maybe the hard facts could be recognized.

"I didn't believe them when they told me I'd been brainwashed or made into a robot by the Agency," he mumbles, still with his arms around his legs. He searches Ryan's eyes. "That's where I come from... the 'bad guys.'"

Shifting his weight, he finally scoots his legs down and picks up the rest of his french fries to finish them off. "Maybe they were right," he finally concludes. "I can't feel anything anymore. I know I did once... but I guess I've forgotten what it was like."

Finger Tips

Thinking for a long moment on what Ryder said Thirteen frowns her brow. Trying to process his words, and understand what they meant. Picking at a spot in the table Thirteen finally talks a little softer

"Sooo...My dad doesn't love me? Thats...why he doesn't want me to know who he is?"

Letting out a long sigh the words that had slipped from her mouth seemed so sad. How could a parent not love there child? It seemed strange to think about it, and it even hurt a little. Finally looking up at Ryder again Thirteen gives a small smile. He always made her feel good, his soft look, his eyes, and the things he said to her. He defiantly made her feel special.

"Mmm...I...want you to defiantly be part of my family, because right now your the most important person to me."

Helping BJ with his food and forming a place for Katie to sit next to her Rosetta can't help but laugh and joke with the others. Though all the family was not here, most of it was and though it was sad some were missing, Rosetta was happy others could make it.

Feeling a strange sensation go down her spin Rosetta looks up to meet her brother's eyes. He was all the way on the other side of the room but it was easy to read the look that screamed something was wrong.

Letting Katie know she would be right back and to help BJ with his food Rosetta excuses herself from the table making her way over to Trent. Looking down at him her eyes filled with worry.

"Trent, whats wrong?"

Giving a knock on the door before letting herself in like normal Sapphire had a few bags in hand containing clothing for when Gage and herself went to her parents. IT was probably going to be a long night tonight and Sapphire would end up crashing on the couch.

"Hunny I'm home!!!!!"

Giving a giggle as she enters Sapphire drops her bags and purse by the couch before poking her head around the corner to find Gage. Giving a big grin she goes over to him and gives him a nice big hug.

"I think one of these days you going to be tired of me being here all the time. I'm hardly at home anymore, not that I mind at all."

Slidding into the chair next to him Sapphire puts her arms on the table and leans on it a little but. She new she could never tire of Gage's company and after spending almost all day with him at the amusement park the other day she felt even closer to him.

"So...what should we do today since the whole day is at our finger tips?"

Ryan could see the sparkle in Alec's eye even if he hadn't said it. He liked the necklace and that made her happy.

Continuing to just study Alec Ryan looks away for a moment glancing around the room. She couldn't help but feel a little bad for him having to be locked up like this all the time. Thought she understood and new why she still felt bad.

Giving a shrugs and a smile Ryan looks to Alec again as he talks. Just listing to him and thinking for a long moment.

"I guess, I bend the rules to an existent in more ways than one. Some people would say I was crazy too. But if you ask someone who really knows me they would simply say, I took after my father who had an extremely kind heart."

Ice storm

Alec simply stares back at Ryan as if the whole concept was foreign to him. He'd been in the Agency so long that he'd forgotten what it was like to have a friend or receive a gift with no strings attached.

Finally he drops his gaze, the first time he'd let her win a stare down. He studies the chain again, finding that he liked it very much. He'd always wanted one, but hadn't ever gotten around to buying one for himself. Ryan had good taste. But could he really accept this? Wasn't that a sign of surrender? Was she expecting something in return? Did he really want to take it as acceptance of the friendship she apparently thought existed?

It seems an eternity of weighing options and consequences before finally slipping the chain over his head and tucking it under his shirt. The less attention he drew to it the better - Hal might consider it a danger and take it away.

With his eyes still down, he takes a few more french fries, keeping his mouth busy for the next several moments. Eventually, he sits back a little and pulls his knees up to his chest, wrapping his arms around his legs and resting his chin on his knees, staring back at Ryan.

"I still don't understand," he comments. His tone still contained the caution. It was almost timid but not quite, with a lack of hostility. "Not only was it bizarre you came in the first place, but then to come back after I dissed you. You say everyone deserves company this time of year but... according to the law, I don't deserve anything but the electric chair. So either you're nuts or... slow in the head. But you don't seem to be either."


"I'm sure we can go see the horses." Ryder nods. "All we gotta do is ask and I bet anybody would show us around and introduce us to a few of the critters."

The lull in conversation is taken over by BJ's enthusiastic greeting to Thirteen and Ryder watches and waits, letting her do the talking. When she finally looks up at him again, he smiles warmly. "Family is more than bloodlines," he mentions softly. "Kids seem to figure that out before the adults do."

Cocking his head, his crooked smile remains. His mind thinks about Trent and all that he knew and Thirteen didn't. "I've found it's not the blood that really matters... it's the relationships we have with others. Family will always share blood, but if there's no love, then it's not really something to be sought after. But friendships... good relationships with the people we love despite no blood connection - those are the ones worthy of being called family."


Trent eyes the other people in the dining room as breakfast is served. His gaze flickers between Ryder and Jasmine, and Katie. It was Katie who he wondered about at this point. After her last visit, he just wasn't so sure how to take her.

As more people filter in to eat, Trent seems to retreat further into his corner. A small tv was set up and he turns his back to the group, switching on the news for just a short while, hoping to catch the weather report.

"Accidents are happening all over the south and east," the female reporter states while standing out in snow in northern Texas. She goes on to tell about specific accidents in Oklahoma, Tennessee and Illinois to emphasize the damage winter weather was causing not only in isolated states, but in many regions.

"We got word of an accident involving a semi and a mother and her baby," the male newscaster comments.

"That's right, Todd. It was on the interstate in Arkansas late last night. A mother and her six-month-old baby were traveling to family when the ice storm hit. Her car stalled on the road and she couldn't get it off to the side. She got out of her vehicle and went to retrieve the baby from the backseat while oncoming traffic tried to go around her. Witnesses say that a semi approached in her lane but couldn't stop. There were two cars to the right of the semi and the trucker apparently opted for the ditch to avoid hitting anyone."

The reporter pauses for just a moment to read her notes. "We interviewed the mother and she said she thought she and the baby would get hit, but it appeared to her that the truck driver purposely jackknifed his rig to avoid hitting her. She's never been so scared in her life and I can't blame her."

"And what happened to the trucker?"

"He did go in the ditch, Todd. Pictures show the rig went off the road then rolled. It looks like we got a report that said the driver was injured and taken to the hospital. No name or condition had been released since then, but there is one mother who says her angels were watching over her this Christmas Eve. Wherever that trucker is, we thank him and hope the injuries were not serious."

Trent blinks as he sees the pictures being shown in the corner of the screen. The cameras had caught an angle that showed the color of the truck in full view. It was red with a custom black stripe that slashed from front to back. Trent immediately recognizes it. "Oh, no..." There was no mistaking it was Eric's truck.

He turns in his seat, scanning faces until he finds Rosetta. He needn't call her over - the look on his face would suffice.


Gage had off today. It was one of the very few, other than Sundays that he didn't have to go work. Lately it had all been ditch work, tree lines and more back-breaking work. He was just as glad he didn't have to go today. It gave him time to wrap his gift to Sapphire at least before she came over.

The whole thing with Scott made him question his relationship with her, but at this point, he was going to trust her that nothing bad would happen if he continued to see her.

Siting at the tiny kitchen table, he fumbles with the brown paper, trying to get the corners folded in just right. It was his third attempt - he wouldn't have crooked corners or wrinkled tape. Eventually the gift is wrapped, not very thick, but had a fairly large surface area. If one fingered it, they might guess it was something in a picture frame.

Gage sets it aside for now and looks at the clock. He'd forgotten if Sapphire said she would come over early today or if she had to work. He wouldn't call though. He didn't want to bother her and it wasn't like he had any plans that would be disrupted if he didn't know exactly when she'd be there.

Little Man

"I've never seen a horse close up before. Do you think maybe we..can go see them later?"

Taking a sip of her coffee Thirteen looks out the window and than back to Ryder giving a smile. She read about horses before but never been up close. Thirteen always thought they were pretty.

Suddenly feeling a tug on her shirt Thirteen gives a jump looking down quick to see a set of big blue eyes looking back at her.

BJ stared up at the woman who looked so much like Katie. Seeing her the other day he had been shy but now his curiosity seemed to get the better of him.

"You look like Katie. Does that mean your related to her?"

Looking up at Ryder with question and a tiny bit of awkwardness. She'd never really delt with kids before. Looking back down at the small boy a smile formed on her face, though she had to think about the questions for a long moment before giving she a shake of her head.

"I wish I was little man, but I'm not."

Thinking for a long moment BJ scrunches his nose up as he thinks. Finally reaching out BJ takes Thirteen's hand in his own. Smiling back up at her his eyes give the famous Henson twinkle.

"You can be part of my family if you want."

Letting go BJ turns and runs across the dinning hall and into the room where his toys were starting to play with them again.

Watching the boy run off Thirteen looks up at Gunner, a small glisten behind her eye. Her words seemed to get caught in her own throat not sure what to say.

Continuing to move around the Kitchen Katie felt right at home here finding everything she was looking for and not thinking twice.

No problem, you have a nice time with the family and give Kaylee an extra kiss for me.

Placing the bacon into a frying pan Katie than moves to the eggs again and to move them around a little to prevent them from sticking.

Mmmm...some alone time with you will be nice, and together with the family as well .

Flipping some pancakes next Katie goes back to the eggs taking them off the burned and placing them in a bowl. Moving to the other stove and doing the same with the sausage and bacon as well.

I wouldn't mind hearing you play the guitar. We have been so busy lately I haven't had much time to listen to it. So I am all for you playing a little.

Finally finished with everything Katie whips her hands off on her apron before leaning against the counter for a moment continuing to talk to Jason. Being silent and talking was normal now, it no longer felt strange or awkward.

Ok, I'll see you in a little bit. Love ya J, have a nice visit.

Cutting off her communication with Jason for now while he was with his moment Katie started to bring the plates out into the dinning room smiling at her meal creation.

"Breakfast is served everyone. Help yourself!"

Easing herself down on Alec's cot Ryan was a little surprised when he made no smart comment back. But seeing the look in his eye she could see the confutation yet a gratefulness at the same time. Being offered some frys Ryan holds up her hand.

"No thank you, I had something on my way over."

Continuing to just watch him Ryan leans back so her own back was against the wall. She liked just seeing Alec's expressions and reading what layed behind him. Seeing the tiny bit of happiness that shined through that maybe he didn't even know was there.

Hearing Alec's question Ryan is quiet for just a moment thinking about how she wanted to answer it. Finally clearing her throat Ryan answers Alec.

"Because everyone deserves share this special time of year with someone. I guess I consider you a friend to now that I have spend more than a few hours with you. Its not everyone I let touch my special cards you know."

Ryan gives Alec a smile not sure if he would understand or even agree with what she was saying. It was her reason thought and it didn't matter what he thought.

Skeptical

Walking with Thirteen, Ryder lets her link her arm through his and he slowly leads the way to the bigger building across the driveway.

"I slept like a joey. No city noise was the best sound I've heard since moving to the US."

Getting to the dining hall, he opens the door for her and lets her go in first, following close behind. After pouring some coffee and being told breakfast would be soon, Ryder leads the way to a table by the window, making sure Thirteen didn't mind.

Easing down into his chair, only then does he realize that Trent is closeby, alone and seeming to not be all that interested in his surroundings. It was just as well... Ryder did feel somewhat guilty for bringing Thirteen here, so if nothing came of it, then perhaps it would be best.


Trent can't help it that his eyes followed Jasmine as she walked in with Ryder. She looked so much like her mother, yet she was a striking resemblance to his side of the family too. The combination was lethal - she was a beautiful young woman. Trent was all too glad that she had Ryder looking out for her. Surely things had turned out for the best.


Jason smiles as he pulls himself from bed. Feeling Katie's tug on his emotions was a nice way to wake up.

I think I'm gonna eat breakfast here. Spend time with Mom. Don't get too used to me not being around though - I'll be up to the ranch sometime after.

He yawns and grabs his clothes, heading down the hall to the bathroom.

Don't know what everybody's got planned, but they said something last night about getting the group together tonight for some singing and gift opening, then tomorrow having a special Christmas dinner. Sounded right good to me.

Jason splashes some cold water on his face and washes up, opening the cupboard to find the toothbrush and a few other items that were always kept for him here. It made him feel good, knowing his mom and Wes both made sure this was one of his homes.

Figured we might have a little alone time sometime today, but I'm just as happy being with everybody else if you are.

Brushing his teeth and giving himself a quick shave, Jason keeps up his silent conversation as naturally as if Katie was standing right there with him.

Though it's cold enough out, it might be a good excuse to cozy up on the couch later tonight if we can get it to ourselves. I have a funny feeling, though, a few others might beat us to it.

He grins as he thinks of Sparky and Faith.

But if that's the case, I guess we can settle for a blanket in front of the fireplace in the dining room. If I can keep myself from getting conned into playing the guitar that is... though for some reason I have another funny feeling about that.

His smile widens as he pulls on a clean shirt.

As if we never get alone time.

They were able to spend so much time together after work and on the weekends that it was beyond habit now and Jason hadn't tired of it. Christmas was special, but being with the family was the biggest thing right now.

Hearing a squeal from the kitchen, Jason is alerted to the fact that his mother isn't alone with breakfast.

I'm gonna go help Kaylee make a mess at the breakfast table. If anybody asks, I'll be around in a bit.


Startled by someone's presence, Alec sits up quickly, his magazine going back under his pillow in the blink of an eye. Staring up at Ryan, he can't hide his surprise. He really hadn't expected her back at all, let alone today.

Eying the bag, his ears perk a little at Ryan's announcement of what she had brought. Magazines? He couldn't help but want to see those. Food? She'd tried again? Interesting. His stomach gives a little growl. A Christmas gift? What was up with that?

Sitting cross-legged, Alec remains silent for several moments. He had no idea how to react. His first instinct was to tell Ryan to get lost - he didn't need her company and no he didn't want it today or any other day. But for some reason, the words never made it quite as far as his mouth this time.

Reaching for the bag, he pulls out the sack of food first. After so long of tv dinners or over-nuked leftovers served daily by Hal, the fast food was something not to be taken lightly and certainly not thrown to a dog. This time, Alec wasn't going to try his luck.

Still saying nothing, he unwraps the burger and takes a bite. Greasy or not, it sure did taste good. He might not want to admit it, but his tastebuds were all over it. Feeling the cot move, he glances up to see that Ryan had sat down, but his eyes go back to his food. Swallowing a bite, he tires out a french fry, finding it tasted oh-so good after going for so long without them.

Halfway through his burger, he reaches for the magazines, his eyes showing interest whether he wanted them to or not. Sandwich in one hand, his other flips through the smooth pages, taking in the picture of cars and articles about engine performance, racing and more.

Still no words came as he polished off the burger. Having a good quantity of fries though, he finds himself tilting them towards Ryan if she wanted any. It was the best he could do without actually saying, "thank you" for the food.

Wiping his hands on his jeans, he hesitantly pulls out the little wrapped package. His finger runs along the edge and his eyes glance up to Ryan again. Skepticism was in his gaze. Food and magazines was one thing... but an additional gift? What was the catch?

Eventually, he tugs at the tape and more carefully than one might expect, he opens the little gift. Folding the paper into a square and setting it aside with the magazines to keep, he holds the small box in his palm for a moment, still skeptical. Finally though, he opens it and draws out the chain. Holding it in his fingers, he rubs the strong links with his thumb, wondering why on earth Ryan had given him something like this.

Just staring at it, unfamiliar feelings tried to push their way to the surface. Something inside, deep down almost hurt. He could almost hear the crack being made in his thick wall of defense. It was a small gift, but it was as hard hit to a brittle foundation.

Clutching the chain, he raises his head to Ryan once more, studying her for several more silent moments. But it was only one word he spoke. And this time, malice was not in his tone.

"Why?"

Green Paper

When the darkness of night comes it doesn't always mean its bedtime. For those few people, forcing there eyes to stay open is for good cause. Being with friends, family, loved ones this is just another opportunity for some quiet time together. But than soon as the birds start to chirp they signal the soft colors on the horizon and everyone knows its time for bed.

Moving around the kitchen Katie had already told Becky to take it easy. She was handling breakfast this morning. Now she was just moving around getting things ready and going to start any moment. Though it had been a late night and morning came early she still felt refreshed having no problem getting up.

Pouring some eggs into a pan for scrambled eggs Katie closes her eyes for a moment feeling Jason's warm emotions. A smile spreading across her face as pulls on Jason's good feelings wanting to soak up some more.

Good Morning. I did actually. Better than I have in a while. Are you going to stay at your Mom's for breakfast or should I make you something too?

Opening the door Thirteen's hair was still a little wet as she had only gotten out of the shower a few minutes ago. Giving a smile to Ryder there was a tired look in her eye, but a soft gleam shown through even more. She'd braved the night and though she didn't get much sleep was a little tired now she still had done it. She was proud of herself.

" I sure am ready for some food. I've been up for about an hour, but I didn't know when you would be awake so I figured I'd wait."

Grabbing her jacket and exiting the bunk house Thirteen links arms with Ryder as they walk across the crisp grass. Taking a deep break, the fresh air felt good in Thirteen's lungs.

"How did you sleep last night?"

Heading across TJY Ryan new her way pretty well to where Alec was kept by now. It seemed strange going to see him without Trooper there but she new Hal would be watching. A plastic bag in her hand Ryan came to the familiar door. Giving a know and than entering Ryan gives a smile at Alec.

"Hey there, figured you'd like some company today. Got some more magazines for you, some food, and a small Christmas gift too."

Setting the bag down on Alec's cot there were 4 different magazines inside, some burger king, and a nice little package wrapped in green paper that contained a thick gold chain.

"Pretty quiet around here today huh?"

Christmas Eve

JT is on his back with his arm up over his eyes but he nods to Amanda's question. "She's alright. Not any better though. Worse, if anything. It's more than being love sick though... I didn't realize how much she'd really become attached to Gunner. I guess maybe I don't even understand it, but I know the cure is getting them back together."

Sighing deeply, he moves his arm down and turns his head to see Amanda. "All she wants for Christmas is a phone call to Gunner. I gotta make it happen. Maybe if I get a hold of Scott or Dalton they can help me out."


Jeff and Jason's eyebrows rise and they glance to each other, both nodding and speaking to Katie at the same time. "You're on."


The evening proceeds, some loving the time together with families, some already fast asleep, and some wishing the night would overtake their thoughts and give them rest as well. But no matter the thoughts and hearts, the sun never rests, and all too soon, it's rising again, casting it's warmth over the frosty landscape.


Jason rolls over in bed, the smell of bacon hitting his nose. He'd come to his mom and Wes' last night instead of finding a bunkhouse. Surprisingly, they'd still been up, though Kaylee had been asleep for hours. It was a nice quiet time to talk until the wee hours of the morning when all were too tired to stay up any longer. Surprisingly enough though, Jason wasn't all that tired now that it was time to get up again.

Stretching his muscles, he greets the one he knew would be awake and probably in the ranch kitchen by now. He'd promised to help with lunch, but he'd stick around here for breakfast.

Morning, sunshine. Sleep well?


Trent sits in the far corner as usual, sipping a hot cup of coffee. Dark lines under his eyes told of his weariness, though he tried to cover it up. No one had said anything to him about Jasmine being here, and for that at least, he was thankful. Many here knew she was his daughter, though some still did not, and he was just as glad that this whole thing not be made into a big deal. So his routine was the same... get up, drink coffee alone, then go make himself useful in a quiet corner somewhere, probably cleaning tack if no one else was.


Ryder knocks his knuckles on Thirteen's door, his hat and jacket on after getting up a while earlier, now fresh and ready to start the day. "Rise and shine!" he calls. "Breakfast time!"


Christmas Eve. Alec crosses another day off the calendar and wanders out of his room to the hall way, looking down the empty corridor. It was quiet... quieter than usual. Many agents were gone for the holidays. It would be a prime time to try and do something, but for once, Alec just didn't have the energy to make a break for it. As far as he knew, Hal was still here and still watching the cameras. It would be a waste of time to try and get out today, fewer people or not.

Sighing, he goes back to his cot and lies down, grabbing the car magazine he'd now read over and over again. He just about had it memorized, but it was about the only thing that kept his mind occupied at this point. He hadn't seen hide nor hair of his visitor again. Left to his own thoughts, he wondered if maybe she was out of town too for the holidays. This was going to be quite the Christmas... he just had to remember it was simply another day in the year and not dwell on the memories of parties with his own gang back at the Agency, or even further back, Christmases with his mom.

Better Idea

Giving a nod and a kiss to Ryder's lips Thirteen was almost hesitant to let go of his hand but finally did. As he leaves Thirteen goes to the door watching for several moments before closing the small curtain on the door. Going to lock the door she stops. Ryder said it was safe maybe if she wanted to get over being scared she should start here in some place she was safe.

Turning from the door Thirteen heads back to her bags and pulls out her clothing before heading into the bathroom. In no time she was changed and crawling under the covers.

Starring into the dark Thirteen listens to the noises around her for a long while. They were different but not nearly as scary as she thought. It was actually kind of soothing and in no time Thirteen was asleep.

Katie cant help the laugh that escape her lips as her own feelings pulled and drawed Jason's out. To laugh and not worry it felt so good, not to mention being around her dad was such a joy. She'd always been close to Jeff and than after the truth was out they had become closer.

"Mmm...Jason's isn't that bad if he is grilling. Actually he makes a mean steak. I don't know about leaving alone with breakfast though."

Laughing again Katie plays a few cards, than picks up some putting a few others down again. Than looking up and around the room she gives a smile and nods.

"How about for Christmas eve day we give Becky off from cooking and I will do it. Just who ever wins has to help me. Loser has to do the dishes."

Coming out of the bathroom Amanda catches sight of JT as he sinks down on the couch. She new he was worried it was written all over his face and to be honest she was too. Ambling over to one of the over stuffed chairs Amanda flops down letting out a sigh.

"Hows she holding up? Any better?"

Asleep

Ryder smiles and nods. "You can keep the door unlocked. But if you feel better with it locked, you can do that too. You're safe either way, so it's your choice."

Bending to give Thirteen's lips a short but tender kiss, he brushes her cheek with the back of his hand. "Good night."

Turning, he exits and steps down off the porch to walk several feet to where his own door was. Though in a strange place, he was exhausted, and it doesn't take him long before he's sound asleep.


Jeff smirks as he straightens his chair at the table. "If the winner cooks breakfast, then we better keep Jason from winning."

"Hey." Jason throws him a withering but playful look. "I can cook... kind of."

"Uh-huh. That's what I'm afraid of."

Jason laughs and shakes his head. "You just better make sure I don't win then. Besides... even if I do, I'd recruit help anyway."

"That wouldn't be a problem. Becky's been doing a lot of it lately and I'm sure she'd rather not have a morning off than let you into the kitchen."

"Thanks a lot." Jason grabs his cards, laughter flowing through his emotions to Katie. Tired or not, this was the best part of being here.


Leaving Bree be, JT wanders from the small room, letting her fall asleep before he returned to his own bed near hers. Seeing people still up, he skirts around to the quiet living room area, sinking down on the couch and staring up at the ceiling. They had to be able to go home soon... they just had to.


Trent eventually rises and makes his way into his bunk. He'd thought about going to talk to Ryder tonight, but he would wait until tomorrow when he could get him alone. He had to know why they'd come.

Unlocked

Just continuing to look out the window Bree dosnt look back to her Uncle as he tried to reassure her, and said he would try to see what he could do with Gunner. Bree wanted to over come this, it was just so hard. Her only comfort was the starts she could look at, hoping Gunner would be looking too and was ok.

"Good Night Gunner."

Giving a little wave to the group as herself and Ryder were going to head out for the night Thirteen gave a small sigh. In the nice cool air the ranch seemed so quiet and calm. Much different from the noisy city.

Once inside Thirteen puts her bags down and just looks around the room. It was much different from home, but seemed cozy. Looking at Ryder Thirteen's eyes showed a little bit of worry, but she had to be brave she had to be.

"Its going to be strange trying to sleep here...Its...ok to keep the doors unlocked?"

It was easy to see in Thirteen's eyes it was an innocent honest question. She'd never been to a place like this before, and thought they said it was safe, did she still need too?

Looking over at her father Katie gives a smile and nods pulling a pack of cards from her pocket. It was one of the main things she always remembered to bring. It was tradition to play some late night card games.

"Winner makes breakfast in the morning for everyone? Best 3 out of 4?"

Starting to shuffle Katie moves from Jason's lap and gets into her own chair and passing the cards out. This was one tradition that she could never tire of this, and the camp fires.

Slowly making his exit Dan goes to his bunk house. Seeing everyone interact was nice, it was good to see such a close family but seeing it all reminded him of how much he has lost, and that Jade wasn't there for his first Christmas.

Grabbing his already packed bag Dan was ready to just leave the ranch for a few days. He had somethings he needed to do, and maybe some time alone would be nice too. Only one person new where he was going, and had pointed in the right direction.

Exiting the bunk and getting into his tuck Dan starts to make his way down the driveway. He'd be back in a few days but he couldn't help the feeling everything would be changing, for better, for worse he wasn't sure.

Finally turning again the gravel crackles under his truck tires. His destination in mind, and thinking he new how to get there Dan was off into the night.

Evening thoughts

JT felt like his heart would crumble right then and there. It had been a long time since he'd seen his niece in this state, and it hurt so much to see it now. She and Gunner had become attached to each other so fast and JT knew that Gunner was her best friend and more. And now, not knowing if he was going to get out of jail, and not even being able to talk to him or see him... it had to be terrible for her.

Though unsure, he nods. "I'll try to make it happen for you, okay? I don't know how, but there's some friends I can call who maybe can help."

He gives her arm a squeeze then rises from the bed. "Get some rest... Tomorrow is Christmas Eve and we're gonna make it special even if things aren't straightened out yet."

Ryder chuckles and gets to his feet, offering Thirteen a hand. "Alright. Let's check out our new quarters."

Slapping his hat on and bidding everyone a good night, he heads for the door with Thirteen, having Jim lead the way to show them to the bunk houses. Once they're there and shown where everything was, Ryder stands with Thirteen in her bunkhouse. "Katie's in the main house with Rosetta and BJ and I'm right next door," he assures. "All you gotta do is holler if you need anything, okay?"

He cradles the side of her face, offering her reassurance. "Sleep well."

Still at his own bunkhouse, Trent looks down a ways to where Jasmine and Ryder were. He was glad at least that they were at a safe place. But why did they have to come here? Jasmine was just that much closer to the truth, and it was just that much harder to keep it hidden. Trent wanted it hidden. He didn't want her to know he was her father. He didn't deserve to be anybody's father, let alone of a young woman with such an innocent heart.

He watches for a few more moments, his mind oh-so far from the aches and stiffness in his body that the cold night air was bringing on.

Jeff watches Katie and Jason quietly as Ryder and Thirteen leave. He studies his daughter, pride showing in his eyes. He as glad to see her still with Jason. The young man still had a lot of life to live but it was obvious he cared deeply for Katie.

Jeff clears his throat. "You two gonna hit the hay?"

Jason had just been responding silently to Katie and he raises his eyes to Jeff. "You kidding me? We got a card game to play."

Jeff laughs and shakes his head. "I'll regret it, but count me in."

Eric stares out the truck stop window, watching the howling snow. "Doggone it." Shaking his head, he moves back to the little table and his hot drink that tasted more like flavored water than brewed coffee.

Easing down, he sighs, rubbing his tired eyes. Engine trouble. More snow. At this rate, he'd make it back to Texas in time to turn right back around to haul the other load he was scheduled for.

The Only Gift!

Katie's smile grew bigger receiving Jason's words back to her. This connection had almost torn them apart, but in the end it brought them closer together. There love had grown, and there lessons learned along the way had been hard one, but in turn they wouldn't be soon forgotten.

Mmmm...and thank you, for opening my eyes those years ago. Showing me what I was missing out on.

If it hadn't been for Jason, Katie might have never broken out of her shell. She might of still be miserable, quiet, and with draw from the world.

Looking around at the table she gives a gentile nod at all the smiling faces. So many friends she had made along the way, and some how

...Katie looked to Ryder and Thirteen....

Even the ones who wernt from here, ended up here. This place really had a magic draw to it. For those who needed healing, for those looking for a second chanse, for those who wanted to be safe, and for those who just wanted to relax...this was home.

Thirteen can't help the laugh that escapes her lips as Ryder kiss the top of her head. She liked Cindy already, she was such a nice last and her voice was so soft. Hearing Ryder was prouded of her made her smile grow even bigger. She felt warm on the inside like a blanket had been wrapped around her.

After that it seemed like the ice had been broken and though Thirteen still didn't talk much, the strangeness of being in this place was broken. Her face expressions, and her gentile nods here and there showed she was listing and taking everything in. The smile on her lips saying it felt good, to be around these people and feel so safe, almost shut out from the cold world. 

.....And dinner rolled on, the meal and the laughs. New friends, and old the warmth in the room was amazing and the feeling of a calm had come. Soon it drew late and those who could breave the late night stayed and those who retreated did....

Shaking her head at Ryder's story's Thirteen rolls her eyes too. She always hated the ones about the alligators and crocodiles. But somewhere along the way of the last few weeks Thirteen had gotten use to him dealing with those animals even if it still scared the crap out of her and she wanted to kill him every time he did something dangerous. She had even been to the Zoo on the less busy times of day once or twice learning about the different animals and actually starting to like it.

Giving a yawn Thirteen trys to hide it but knows it was a lost cause. Now that the group had died down even more Thirteen felt comfortable and hated the thought of leaving. Listing to all the story's was so nice, living through them since she had non of her own. Giving a sigh and a nod she didn't want to but new she probably should.

"I'm ready now, even though I don't really want too."

Thirteen was a little nervous about sleeping in this strange place by herself. It was filled with new lights, noises, sounds...she wasn't use to in the house in Nevada. She new sleep wouldn't come easily as her nerves were already high thinking about it.

Leaning her head on Jason's shoulder Katie could feel her eyes getting tired thought she refused to go to bed this early. She was home, and this called for a card game at least still, and she just...new how Jason felt.

I agree, staying like this would defiantly be nice.

Letting out a sigh Katie wraps her arms around Jason just holding him while she sat in his lap. He was so warm, and he smelled good tonight it up to her Katie could fall asleep here no problem.

Lifting her head a little Bree looks at her Uncle. Everyone had been so supportive, and she was thankful for all there help, but the one person she needed right now she couldn't even talk to. Tomorrow was there first Christmas even and she couldn't even spend it with him. 

Leaning her head back down on the pillow Bree looks out the window she only opened at night to reveal the stars she had grown to love. She miss Gunner so much and each day without word, was another day of torcher.

Not moving her head from the blanket Bree just slowly blinks her eyes her voice low, and it lacked the life it once held. 

"On Chrismas, can someone call Gunner for me and get him on the line, than hand the phone to me. If only for a minute I'd like to talk to him on Christmas. Can...that be the only gift I get please?"