Can't

"I see." Reese nods thoughtfully, analyzing Ryan's responses. "Well, I'd hardly say 'just friends' about two people like this."

Swiveling in his chair, he hits the remote for a small monitor that Ryan could see as well. Playing was footage from the security monitor in Alec's room without sound. From the camera angle, it just caught Ryan and Alec kissing quite passionately, up against the wall.

Reese stops the tape and looks back to Ryan, tossing the remote on his desk. "I've seen previous footage as well, Miss McKade. Some of the sound is missing because Alec tampered with the camera's microphone, however, from day one, it appeared you knew him better than you say." He cocks his head. "Food... games... even a little spat."

Pausing again, he searches Ryan's eyes. "I can find out about you - we have connections and it wouldn't be too hard to find out where you've been or what you've been up to the last few years. However, I thought it would be easier just to ask you if there was anything else I needed to know about."


"I don't see how giving information is a change of heart," Alec responds dryly. "Just a change of mind. I lost my heart a long time ago. As far as the information goes though, I figure Reese hasn't tried to blow my head off or assimilate me - that's a plus on the Elite side so now they're ahead of the Agency as far as tally marks go."

He shrugs again, his eyes showing a lack of interest, though not quite as cold as they had been the last time he'd seen Hope. "Maybe I am crazy. But maybe being away from the Agency..."

He was going to admit aloud that maybe being away from them was starting to open up his eyes. But he wasn't quite ready to say that yet. "Well why wouldn't someone want out of here? And by the looks of things, I won't get out until the Elite gets something from me so... I gave it. Now I gotta wait and see if I get the electric chair, the prison, or the free ride like Gage."


Ty shakes his head, feeling the strain of trying to learn something he just couldn't grasp. "I just don't understand how this is easy for everybody else." He looks to Libby, then back down at the paper. "I can't ever remember what letters are what, let alone try to put sounds with them. First it's an "a" then I think it's maybe an "o" then I'm told really it's an "e." But it doesn't look like it did the last time I tried to read it and it all just gets..."

He stops and takes a deep breath, rubbing his eyes again. "I know the sounds.... I know what the letters sound like... but then when I can't make any sense out of the words, I give up... then its' so long before I try again that I have to relearn the sounds too. But the letters all look different again."

Groaning in frustration, he doesn't look back at the page again. "I can't do another hour... my head hurts too much."


Trent turns his coffee cup in a small circle on the table, his eyes down until he glances up at Thirteen and Ryder who sat across from him. The three had taken a pickup and gone into town for breakfast this morning... away from roaming eyes and listening ears. Once there though, Trent had felt the awkwardness and lapsed into more quiet than planned.

Glancing at Thirteen, he gives a little shrug. They hadn't interacted much since the day before. "I... I don't know what to tell you... unless you have specific questions." He was giving her permission to bombard him, and he didn't know if she would or not. But the silence was a killer.

One more hour

Taking one of the seats that was at the small table Hope gives an interesting sigh as Alec fills her in a little on what had happened. Giving a surprised look herself that she couldn't help when finding out Alec had given information to Reese.

"How come you had a change of heart Alec? Was it because you wanted out, or do you really see that maybe the Agency wasn't that great after all?"

Hope really was interesting now in the reasoning behind Alec's actions. After so many weeks of not being able to do anything she herself didn't think it would do much good in changing his mind. But maybe something else down the road had.

"I am sorry you have to stay in here and you feel so caged. Maybe now with the information Reese had, you'll be able to leave and start a new life. This could be what he needed to speed things up."

Laughing and Giggling as Mick picks him up BJ's toys seemed long forgotten and now, the though of wanting to get to know Dylan more too. When with his Daddy everything seemed ok.

"Mmmm...I fink I smell french toast cooking. My favorite."

Reaching his little hand up BJ takes it as they head back to the dinning room table where Rosetta had already set out plates for them all. Even getting one ready for Dylan too.

Continuing to help Ty Libby nods when he does good, and help break up the words when he is not sure. Not once did a shout or and a word of discouragement come from her lips. She was bound and determined to help Ty.

"You wont be able to do it, if you keep thinking you can't. It takes time Ty and a lot of practice. This is only the first day you need to give it more time than that because no one can learn everything in only a few hours. Your doing good for your first day, and thats the truth."

Giving Ty's back a gentil rub Libby smiles at him. Leaning her head down just a little bit so she could see into his eyes.

"We can stop for a little bit if you want to rest your noggin. But I'd like to at least get in another hour. We just have to train your brain and keep at it. Than in no time it will come to you. Just...don't give up on me yet ok?"

Libby's eyes were soft and full of understanding knowing this was hard for Ty. She'd had her own problems in school with Math and science. It could be a pretty frustrating thing when you couldn't understand but one big key was not giving up to soon.

Giving a smile thought she was nervous Ryan returns her hand to Reese giving it a shake. She always was nervous around cops, seeing as what her side hobbies was. Though the Elite was a different branch they still were cops to her.

Taking a seat in once of the chairs Ryan holds her hands in her lap and looks across the desk at Reese. Studying his face for a long moment trying to understand what was going on and maybe his intentions. Hearing his questions though Ryan find them a bit odd, but would have no problem meeting them.

"The first time I met Alec was at a bar I often go to. He was drunker than a skunk and I figured he's need a ride home or something. I have a soft spot, and nothing better to do that day so I figured I'd help him out. He'd been babbling about people trying to kill him, and a few other things I didn't understand. Some how I ended up offending him that same day, and we went out separate ways."

Looking away from Reese for a moment and around the large office Ryan took note to the plaques on the wall, and than scans all the books he had. Just taking in her surroundings it was something she often did in places she didn't know. But finally her eyes come back to Reese as she continues.

"I'm friends with Axel, who is friends with Carson and I guess you could say threw the grape vine I found out he was here. As far as our relationship goes, He's only a friend."

Stupid

Mick chuckles and nods to BJ, knowing that it would take a few more years before the boy understood everything. And that was okay.

"Might be easier to have a big sister," he reasons. "When Jade gets back, you can hang out with her, okay? For now though..."

He gives a little groan as he picks himself up off the floor, grabbing BJ and swinging him around before setting him down by the door. "...we need some breakfast."


"Ah. Dr. Garrison." Alec is sitting on his cot, one leg dangling over the edge, the other drawn up for his arm to rest on his knee. "I should have known they'd send you - top dog thinks I'm crazy." He twirls a finger around his ear.

Sighing, he shakes his head. "How have I been feeling? Trapped. I want out of here just as bad as the first time you talked to me. I really don't know what the benefit was to you even coming down here, unless Reese just wanted you to present some miraculous proof that I wasn't leading him on."

Seeing no understanding in Hope's face, Alec quirks an eyebrow. "Ahh... so he didn't even tell you. Interesting. Letting you come in here clueless?" He tsks the idea. "Dangerous way for him to play."

Leaning back against the wall, he shrugs. "I gave Reese some information on the Agency. Now he's thinking I got a cog loose. Write up whatever you want, I don't care. I just want out of here."


Trying so hard, only halfway into Libby's teaching, Ty gets a headache. He'd been told these very same things how many time? And they made just as little sense to him today as they had then. He tries though, he really does, but it just seems to hit a brick wall in his brain.

Leaning over the book, the rest of his lunch is forgotten as he tries to read with Libby's help. "...h...h...he.... w......." He scrunches his nose. "W...e...ee...ent... went....he went... to... t..... ha, no... the... the... went to the..... pe...pi.....pr..... no... I don't know."

He sighs. It was a R. He thought it was. I looked like a R... maybe. The sound, the sound.... how did it fit together with a P and an A? And there was a K at the end. They'd been sitting here for quite a while now, and he was beginning to feel stupid again. It was a four letter word... only four letters. Surely he could figure this one out.

Looking at it again, he tries once more. "He went to the p....a.... pa.... rrrr.....k." He grimaces. "Paherrk." That wasn't a word that he'd ever heard before. "Oh." Duh. Now he felt stupid again. "Park. He went to the park."

Leaning his elbows on the table, he rests his face in his hands, his palm rubbing his eyes. "It hurts my brain," he mumbles. "I can't do this."


"Ryan, hi." Reese moves forward from around his desk, extending his hand. "Please, have a seat." He gestures to a couple empty chairs before he sits back down behind his desk.

"I hope I'm not disrupting your day too much, I just had a few questions for you."

Leaning forward on his desk, he folds his hands, studying Ryan for several moments, but doesn't offer any information at all as to why she'd been called here or what was going on. "How did you meet Alec, Ryan? What's your relationship with him?"

Something Came Up

A bit surprised by who it was on the other end of the phone Ryan can feel her heart thump. Now thinking maybe something happened with Alec she cant help but worry a little more. Everything seemed good yesterday, and his mood had really changed. Maybe it had all been a show? Had Ryan really got that involved she let her guard down? Obviously she had just from a simple kiss at there last meet...was there really nothing more than pulling the wool over her eyes involved?

Hearing Reese voice again it seemed to snap Ryan out of the trance she had been in as her mind wondered. Sitting up a little straghter again Ryan new Darrel wouldn't mind, as long as she came back before close to finish her work.

"Yeah I can come in no problem. No, No Darrel should have no problem. He's pretty good like that, I'll be in asap."

Hanging up the phone Ryan lets out another sigh before moving away from her bench and standing giving a stretch. Going to the office Ryan gives a knock before poking her head in.

"Hey Darrel, I have to step out for a little bit. I'm really sorry. I'll be back as soon as I can to finish work."

Ryan's face held an apologetic look to Darrel but this was important and she had to go. Leaving the office Ryan goes and grabs her jacket. Throwing Leo a smile and wink Ryan wonders over as she puts her jacket on.

"Hey there...Reese from over at the Elite needs to ask me a few questions. I'll be back in a little bit, make sure you keep these slackers in line ok?"

Leaning down and giving him a quick kiss Ryan heads out of the auto shop and jumps into her car turning on some loud music and heading down to TJY.

It takes no time to TJY, and Ryan new how to get to the lower level already. Not sure what office was Reese though asking someone they point here. Giving a knock on the door Ryan waits thought she had to addmit she was a bit nervous.

Giving a little laugh Libby shakes her head and moves around to the same side of the booth as Ty. Giving a small laugh at his humor Libby was happy he could at least could find a joke in it knowing he was nervouse.

"Ok, we are going to start small. If we just jump into the big stuff we wont get anywhere. So I have some books here we can start with."

Pulling out some of the book they were for about 1 or second grade. Small for most people but if they were going to do this they might as well do it right so she could give the help Ty needed though he might always have a hard time she new he could do it.

"Ok, so most words can be sound out...."

Going though all the small stuff with Ty Libby covers sounding out words, what some different letter sound like when they are together, some spelling rules. Taking him from to back and forth through things Libby did her best to explain.

"...once you get use to putting the letters and sounds together it can be pretty easy. Unless you come across those big long words, and than even I cant figure them out."

Libby gives a small chuckle hoping it help Ty feel a little better. Pulling out another peace of paper it was filled with some easy words to read making a small story.

"Ok, We are going to read this together. You start and I will help you in figuring out the words ok?"

She'd help all she could with pronouncing the words giving him encouragement. She new he could do this with just a little time, and patients.

Continuing to look up at Mick BJ trys to process Micks words. It was hard trying to understand what he was saying at such a young age, and most things that had happened in the past were long forgotten. He remembered Sam but...He'd never known she was his real mom. And all this stuff though he tryed to understand it still left him confused.

"He's my cousin and my brother...? I...I think I understand."

Looking down again BJ looks at the blocks Mick had set up on the ground running his little fingers over them for a moment.

"Ok, I'll try to leave him alone today. I always wanted a brother though."

Making her way down to where Alec was help Hope gives a small knock on the door before she enters the room. Giving a small smile and a nod to Alec as she entered Hope wasnt sure what she was expecting to find.

"Hey Alec. How have you been feeling?"

Reese hadn't said anything to her about what was going on other than there was a change and he wanted her to talk to him. Anything else she didnt know and was going in blind.

Cousins and brothers

"Hello, Ryan, this is Chief of the Elite, Mike Reese. I understand that you've been visiting our prisoner, for lack of better terms, Alec Banks."

Reese leans back in his chair, tapping a pencil on his leg. "Something has come up, and I'd like it very much if you could come in to TJY and speak with me... as soon as possible. I have a few questions for you. I know you're at work, but if your employer has a problem with you taking the time off, I can speak to him and explain this is a legal matter."


Ty smiles as Libby joins him and he nods. "Sure. Food's always good. Can't work on an empty stomach."

Standing up, he waits for Libby to go first and soon, they're both back at the table with some food. Chewing on a french fry, Ty flips open the diver's manual and shakes his head at all the big words. "Ya know... the alphabet song just doesn't help a thing."

He smirks, a humorous glint in his eye. Scanning the words, he continues to eat, furrowing his brow. "For all I know, this could say it's legal to run a red light as long as you blow your horn."

Chuckling, it's obvious that he's trying to be silly to cover up the awkwardness he felt. Wiping a hand on his pantleg, he rolls his eyes and scoots over, patting the empty space on the booth next to him. "Get your butt over here unless we're going to do this upside down."


Hearing what Dylan had said, Mick's jaw tightens. He remains squatted in the doorway, his brow furrowing. "Dylan isn't very happy," he tries to explain, controlling the anger he had for whatever his older son had said.

"I won't ever lie to you and that's a promise." He cocks his head at the innocent little boy, feeling an ache in his heart as he sees the small tear. "You and Dylan... you're brothers... and you're cousins too. That's what makes you special."

Moving a little closer, Mick rocks back to sit on the floor, pulling BJ down into his lap. "A long time ago, when Dylan was born, he lived with me and Jade and his mom. When you were born, you had a different mom who loved you very much... she was my sister... and then you came here, remember? That's when me and mom adopted you. So now you're our son."

He gives BJ a squeeze, showing that his adoption had been a good thing. Reaching down, he moves some duplo blocks around on the floor, representing the people he was talking about. One represented Sam, two for Mick and Rosetta, two more for Dylan and Jade, and one for BJ. Moving them around, he shows first him and Dylan and Jade, then moving to Rosetta, then BJ joining the mix.

"So see... you and Dylan... you were just cousins but now you're brothers too and that makes it even more special."

Mick had always known he would never hide the truth or past from BJ - he was adopted and it would be a fact that was not hidden. But he would always do his best to make up for the subject with as much love as he could give, so BJ would never question where he belonged.

"But Dylan..." He moves the blocks around back to their starting points. "He still sees you as a cousin. So someday, he'll see this like you do - and he will call you his brother too. But we have to be patient with him. He's unhappy and he needs time to... learn we love him."

Petting BJ's head, Mick braces himself with one hand on the floor. "For now though... you just need to leave him alone for a while, okay?" He would talk with Dylan himself later. "He wants to be alone right now so we'll respect that, alright?"

Problem?

Hearing Darrel call her name Ryan pushes herself out from under the truck she was working on. Sitting up and looks around the auto shop for a moment feeling a bit confused, before a sence of panic takes over her. Was something wrong? Was someone hurt? If it had been Eli he would of called her cell, and Leo was here so it wouldn't be him.

"I'll be right there."

Going back under the truck for a moment Ryan caps off the oil tank she had just finished emptying whipping everything up so when she came back she could continue with what she was doing. Sliding back out from under the truck again and standing Ryan whips her hands on a rag.

Going over to her own work bench Ryan throws the rag down. Picking up the phone Ryan yells back to Darrel.

"I got it Darrel thanks."

Bringing the phone to her ear again Ryan prepars herself for the worst letting out a long sigh.

"This is Ryan McKade.."

Entering the dinnar Libby new she was a little late but hoped Ty had stuck it out waiting for her. Things before leaving her house hadnt been the greatest so she was just hibernating. Listing to the screaming and yell outside her room, had put her into some kind of trance and she lost all track of time. But she was here now..some books she picked up along they way.

Scanning the room and seeing Ty a smile forms on Libby's face. Making her way over to him she slides into the booth opposite the side Ty was on. She would of sat next to him, it would be point things out but for now she didn't want to crowd him right off the bat.

"Hey there. Sorry I am late! Did you want to grab anything to eat or drink before we start?"

Returning the hug to Mick BJ gives him a small kiss on the cheek to before retreating and going back to the dump truck he was playing with. Hearing Mick's question BJ looks up at him as he holds the truck picking at the sticker that was on top.

"Dylan said He wasn't my my brother, and you lie."

BJ continues to pick at the stick on the truck. He didn't understand why Dylan said that or what the reason behind it but it had hurt the little boys heart. A tear formed in his eye as he looks up at Mick again.

"But I told him you dont, and he was my brother because we your my dad and his dad, and Mom is our mom too."

Phone call

Mick nods absentmindedly as he ponders too many things at once. "Alright... thanks."

Hearing BJ's voice raised, he looks over to the other end of the room, his eyebrows lifting. He hadn't even realized that BJ had gone to Dylan at all, let alone started talking to him. Seeing the little boy head off to the toy room, Mick rises from the table, determined to head off any problems before they even started.

"I'll be right back to get some breakfast," he informs Rosetta. Wandering to the other room, he leans on the doorway, a grin on his face as he watches BJ play. "Hey, Bud." He squats down to give BJ a morning hug. "What were you and Dylan talking about?"


Leo returns Ryan's kiss, grinning as she walked away. But once he turns back to his engine, his expression becomes a more pensive one. Had Ryan just seemed... Nah. He shakes his head. It was an imagined vibe, he was sure.


Scott hangs up with Dalton and just lies in bed for at least half an hour before he finally gets up. Showering and getting dressed, he gets ready to leave, stops, then decides to take Domino with him.

Leaving the house, his mind is so far away that his cell phone is forgotten on the kitchen table, along with his lunch plans with Hope. Right now, only one thing was on his mind...


"...it doesn't work that way." Carson wanders into the living room from the kitchen, a glass of water for Scott and a beer for himself. Scott had come looking for him after finding out that Mom and Pop's would be closed for two weeks. Finding out about Scott's nightmare bothered him, but he tried to reassure Scott anyway.

"What the Agency put in your mind... you control, not them." He sits down in his chair again, looking at Scott, who sat on the couch. "You see?"

"Kind of." Scott takes the glass of water and fiddles with it before drinking several sips. Domino sat at his feet, leery about being in this strange apartment, but behaving. "But it was so real. I-"

"It wasn't real, Scott," Carson emphasizes. "It was a dream, brought on by one of your biggest fears - betraying your friends. But it won't happen. Right now, you're struggling to control the information that comes to mind, but you still make your own choices and actions. Take me for example."

He gestures with his arms. "What do you see?"

"Your full name... rank... ID number... scrolling case files... names... pictures...."

"Okay, stop." Carson shows his palm. "You hate me?"

"I... I don't know. I don't want to... I try not to..."

"You can say yes if you want."

"Okay... a part of me does."

"You gonna come slug me?"

"No."

"What's stopping you?"

"I know it's... it's wrong. I know I shouldn't hate you, let alone slug you. That's... that's not who I want to be."

Carson cocks his head. "See? You're in control, mate, not the Agency. You've got all that information floating around in your head but you get to decide what to do with it, not them." He nods. "I have total confidence that one day you'll be able to ignore all of it until you want the information. And when you do, you can use it against the Agency. Sure, some of the data you have in your brain will become outdated. But some won't. If you work at it, when you see me, you'll just see me... Carson Banks... not a file full of data."


Reese stares at the spiral notepad in his hand, reading the names, locations, dates and more. "You're serious?"

Alec nods. He stood in his room, arms crossed, looking to Reese who had finally seen him after he'd yelled at Hal through the cameras for another half an hour. "I would have shown you earlier but your watchdog thought I was gonna blow the place up or something." He rolls his eyes. "Take the notepad. It's yours."

Reese is still baffled and looks up to Alec, trying to figure him out. "Forgive me for looking a gift horse in the mouth, but why the change of heart?"

Alec shrugs. "Nobody here tried to blow my head off 'cept your tech guy the night we got into his house."

"So?"

He shrugs again. "The Agency did."

Reese is still skeptical. "And it took you this long to figure that out?"

"Look, do you want it or not?" Alec frowns. "They'll hunt me down for this - you might as well be grateful."

"How do I know it's not a trap? How do I know what you wrote down is the truth and not some ploy to have my men walk into an ambush? You say you're selling out the Agency, but how do I know that?"

"Beats me. I guess that's where your own brain comes in. Send a scout. I don't care. But I gave you what you wanted."

Reese just can't believe it. Things Alec had written in this notepad would help immensely in their war with the Agency, if they were true. "I just don't get it." This young man before him was the same, yet different. He still had a look of bold defiance in his eye. His stance was still defensive and he was still ready for a fight. Yet something was... different.

"Then don't." Alec searches Reese's face, not surprised by the lack of trust. But he had made this decision yesterday, and it would stand. He didn't fit on either side, but right now, this was his only chance of survival. This was his only chance at escaping prison. People like Ryan didn't exist behind bars. Ryan didn't exist there. And he knew now that he wanted freedom. He'd never really wanted to go to prison but at one point it had seemed better than living on the right side of the street or being hunted by the Agency. Now though, he was searching for something better. Something worth it. And all he knew at this point was that helping the Elite could help him.

Reese shakes his head and tucks the notepad under his arm. "Okay. I will review what you've given me." He turns to leave, but Alec stops him.

"Gonna lock the door again?"

Reese hesitates, his hand already on the knob. But he releases it without looking back and heads upstairs. Pausing in Hope's door, he knocks. "Hope... there's been a change with Alec. I'd like you to take the time to talk to him again. It's a long shot but... I want to know what you think." It had been quite a while now since the last time he'd had Hope try to talk to the young man, but it seemed time to try it again.

Continuing on his way, Reese stops in the control room to talk to Hal, gains some footage, calls Jason, and finally winds up with the right number. Dialing, he waits, while thumbing through the notepad pages. "Yeah, hi, this is Chief of the Elite, Mike Reese. I'm looking for Ryan McKade."

Darrel's eyes widen just a little. This sounded official. "Hold for a moment and I'll see if she's available." Setting the phone aside, he leaves the office and sticks his head into the garage. "Hey, Ryan!" he calls. "Telephone!"


Ty wanders into the cafe scanning the room for Libby. Not seeing her yet, he finds an empty booth near the window and tosses the driving regulation book on the table. It was way over his head at this point, but all he wanted now was to pass his stupid permit test, and if Libby could help him get that far, maybe it was worth finally swallowing his pride.

Password

Hearing what Dylan said about Mick his face turn a slight shade of red as he frowns his brow. Placing both hands on the table and looking across it at Dylan.

"He does not lie."

BJ's voice raises just a little as he trys to express his own feelings. He didn't like hearing Dylan talk like that about dad. The young boy's heart was pure and in his eyes Mick was perfect.

"Anyways, I have to go...it will be breakfast soon. I'll see you later Big Brother."

Hoping off the chair once again BJ runs away from the table back to the little playroom where his toys were lined up.

Giving a laugh at the display again and shaking her head Ryan stands. Wondering over to Leo's car and leaning on the edge Ryan looks down at him from the top.

"I think dinner sounds good."

Leaning in a little more Ryan gives Leo a small kiss before pulling away. Term oil was hidden in her eyes. Many questions still layed unanswered, but she did still care a great deal for Leo. He meant a lot to her.

"I guess I better get to that pickup before the guys complain even more."

Backing away from Leo's car he was working on Ryan heads to the end of where the pick up truch was waiting. On her way by she throws a rage at Miles sticking her tong out at him..

"Come on slacker pick up the pace!"

Giving a nod even though his friend couldn't see him Dalton lets out a small sigh. At least Scott would think about it. That was better than just flat out saying no.

"Ok, just think about it and let me know."

Hanging up the phone Dalton lets out another long sigh. Going back to the computer he does a few more things to change Scott's password and a few other as well. For now it would stay like this until Scott gave the word everything was ok.

Rosetta new where Mick was coming from and that he didn't want to be in the way. But he never was, and she never would be. Any paper work about the ranch was always open to him. This was his ranch as much as hers.

Coming back to the question about Dan Rosetta thinks for a long moment. The young man had left, for reason's unknown but Katie had filled her in, saying Dan was sorry he didn't tell anyone he just needed to get away for the holiday.

"I believe he should be back sometime today. His work started again tomorrow, and he's always been good about being on time for work."

Wrapping her own arms around Sparky Faith soaked up all the warmth she could. Being so close, it felt so nice to have someone care so much for her. Faith could only hope everything would pass quickly and things could go back to normal for her and Sparky. Accepting the kiss only confermed how much she wanted everything to be over and normal once again.

Keeping her arms around Sparky and leaning into him they both make there way to the dinning hall. Faith could tell that today would be a good day, and being able to spend time with Sparky would be even better.

Lies

"Who cares about work?" Leo gives Ryan a sidelong glance, then laughs. "Alright, you workaholic, you. The pickup on the end is yours. Jed couldn't handle it."

"I never said that!" Jed shakes a wrench at them. "I said I'd already started on this car."

Leo snickers and dives into the engine as a rag is tossed in his direction. "Alright, alright! I'm sure Ryan can do a better job anyway. It's just as well."

Miles' eyes widen. "Whose side are you on anyway, buster?"

Leo thinks a minute, then grins wide. "Mmm... mine."

Miles smirks. "I bet. You better hold off on those lunch plans though. I heard Darrel promise Mrs. Haines that that car of yours would be done by this afternoon."

"Awww," Leo groans. He sighs and looks back to Ryan. "Okay, so we'll just have to settle for supper."

"Work, Leo!" Jed hollers. "Romance later!"


Scott hesitates at Dalton's offer. "Um.. well I don't know... I mean, I..." He swallows hard. Maybe it would be best. What if he really did go off the deep end? What if he really did betray his own? Wouldn't it be better if someone was there to prevent him from doing it? As it was, he could get up in the night and go to TJY without anything to stop him. But if Dalton was there... at least until this passed... if it would pass.

He jumps as Domino hops up beside him, crawling up his side with her ears back in submission, still afraid she'd done something wrong. Scott sighs and lets one hand scratch her head, letting her know it was okay. He hadn't meant to scare her and he felt badly.

"Maybe," he finally answers Dalton indecisively. "I... I want to talk with Carson and see... see if he thinks my dream would really... I mean... be true."

Looking at the clock, Scott sees he's late for work the way it is. But as long as this was going on, he didn't think he should be there anyway. "I'll... let you know. Thank you."


"Yeah? Well Dad lies about a lot of things," Dylan growls at BJ, muffled in his own arm. He doesn't bother lifting his head. "It stinks here, I hate horses, and this isn't my family. I don't care what you think, so go away."


Mick smiles and squeezes Rosetta's hand in return. "I know... I just didn't want to get in your way." Though hard, he knew he couldn't just waltz right back in and take over again. He wanted to... it was his nature. But he was trying hard not to. "When is Dan supposed to get back?"


Faith's words meant so much to Sparky, and her gentle kiss was returned. He didn't want to lose her. He felt cheated out of time. It wasn't fair.

Pulling her all the way into his arms, he just holds her closer for several minutes, wishing he could just shelter her from this storm and that when he let go, it would all have passed and they could simply live happily together.

Drawing back a little, he kisses her lips again, forcing himself to smile, even though his heart ached. "Let's go have breakfast... then we can get ready and leave on horseback."


A warm tingle spreads through Jade and she can't help her smile. Dan made her feel so good. "You better save those kinds of comments," she warns, or I might be a distraction while you're driving."

Giggling, she squeezes his hand even though she would like to scoot over and kiss him. "Thank you... no matter what he says... I won't change my mind."

Knight in shinning amour

Ryan can't help but laugh at Leo, He always did make her smile. Though with that tight of an agenda Ryan didn't know if she would be able to see Alec or not. If she couldn't get a little time in than maybe it was the best for now. She'd just let the cards fall and if she got time, she did.

"Ok, that sounds good but what about work wise you goofball."

Ryan gives a laugh again not being able to help her smile. What would it be like without Leo's jokes? It seemed like work would just be to long.

Leaning back in his chair and giving a long sigh Dalton felt so bad for his little friend. He was at such a war with his mind, and didn't know what to do. But he would do what Scott asked if it put his own mind at ease.

"Ok, yeah I got it set up. Will you come and stay with me for a few days so you and Domino wont have to be alone?"

Dalton didn't know what else to do for his friend, but if this helped than at least it was something. He couldn't sit by and do nothing while Scott suffered anymore.

BJ continues to look across the table at Dylan. Turning his head a little bit trying to process his words. BJ was smart and understood but he was trying to figure out why he would say that.

"Yesh you are. Dad even said so, and your dad is my dad, and your mom is my mom, and your older dan me. So dat means your my older brother."

Giving a smile to Dylan, BJ didn't understand about step mom's and dads, or even that Rosetta and Mick were his adopted parents. To him it was all the same.

"How tum you don't like it here? Its pretty, and you family is here. I like having you here."

BJ did always want a sibling, and now that he had some he wanted to do more stuff with him, not getting the hint he wasn't wanted there.

Rosetta gives a smile to Mick she was happy wanted to go out and work the horse. It was nice to know he had lost his touch or love for it. Most of the day today she would more than likely be in the office catching up on some stuff. She liked Mick wanted to come in.

"The books always have and always be open to you Mick. You don't have to ask to look at them. As long as you put them back in the right spot so I can find them again."

Giving a smile Rosetta takes Mick's hand and gives it a small squeeze. She was really proud of him and all he was doing. It was still gonna be a long road, but there was light at the end of the tunnel.

Looking up at Sparky Faith just gazes into his eyes seeming to get lost in them. They told a story, of this mans life and some might only think they saw the old tired look but to Faith, she saw so much more. She saw life in them and love...its what drew her in.

"I'd like that very much. To me that sounds like a perfect day."

Feeling Sparky step close she could feel his warmth. It was an amazing feeling that left her feeling so safe. Bringing a hand up to the said of his face Faith gives a small smile her fingers mapping his cheek bone.

"I've never had someone hold me all night before. It would be an honor for that person to be you. Your an amazing person Tyler. Even better than the knight in shinning amour because your real."

Faith new Sparky would understand what she was saying and not think she was taking the comment down a whole another road.

Leaning up to kiss his lips gentile Faith pulls away a little her own eyes held a tiny tear in them. Though she had only just met Sparky not so long ago, the feelings, the love she had for him grew so fast and now to think that after today she might be leaving him..it hurt.

Giving a small she smiles again this time a little bigger. If this was her last day, she wanted to leave giving Sparky good memories. She'd keep her chin up, and enjoy this time they had.

Holding Jade's hand as they continued down the road Dan couldn't help but the small laugh that came from his lips. He new it was going to be hard telling Mick about them, but it had to be done. All he could do was hope for the best.

"After dealing with your grandmother, Mick is a peace of cake."

Giving a laugh Dan tried to make a joke out of it to lighten the mood. Though he really new it wasn't something to joke about. He just wanted to see Jade smile about it.

"Your Dad, we will...keep out head up and tell him without fear, but we will be respectful. With any luck he might understand."

Looking over at Jade, Dan brings her hand to his lips and gives it a small kiss before grinning back at her.

"I love you Jade, if your dad can't see that...I can't turn away now, I've fallen to far."

As long as you want

Leo tinkers with the car he was fixing and without even missing a beat, he answers Ryan. "Ohh.... lunch at the sandwich shop, then a date tonight so Eli can stay home with his beloved new television."

He throws Ryan a sidelong glance with a silly grin, knowing good and well she'd been referring to work, not the personal agenda for the day.


Scott flops back on the bed, relief washing over him. He just lets the silence reign on the phone for a moment, trying to pull himself together. His voice was weak after the traumatizing thought that had taken over his mind.

"I... I just... I..." He swallows hard and closes his eyes, his head throbbing. "No, I'm not okay," he admits. "I had one of the most real nightmares I've ever had and... I thought... I thought I finally cracked... the Agency got into my head and... and I betrayed everybody."

His voice rises with emotion, a despair clinging to each syllable. "I cracked... I knew I would and.... and I couldn't help myself! My mind was just all..."

Scott stops, catching his breath as his pulse begins to race again. "I have to talk to Carson... just lock my account out of the system for now, Dalton, please?" His tone was desperate - that of a man who wanted so badly never to harm those he cared about. "Don't tell me the password until I know I won't... won't do something terrible... please?"


Dylan doesn't turn his head, but lazily lifts an eye to see BJ sitting across from him, mimicking his position again and staring at him. His gaze narrows. "It's not a good morning," he grumbles, "because I'm here. And I'm not your big brother."

Moving his head again, he turns his face from BJ, every vibe a negative one.


Mick smiles and Rosetta hugs her back, returning her kiss. "Mmm... I slept like a baby."

Drawing her down into the chair next to him, he cocks his head, just looking at her for several moments. For no real reason other than to admire her and take in all he could after being away.

"Thought I'd go out and give Remington some attention after breakfast - Jim said he's been a beast. Then if I could come to the office and look through the books just to see what's been up... if that's okay with you?"


Sparky smiles gently, his eyes so full of a longing to just make Faith happy. "Well I can cover the first three all in one, then the fourth can come tonight." His smile widens. "If you get some food together that will fit in a saddlebag, I'll get a horse and we'll ride double up the foothills then have a picnic."

He cocks his head, the brim of his hat casting a shadow over his eyes. "Then tonight we can get dibs on the living room couch and watch a movie..."

He moves a little closer, his hands moving down around Faith's waist. "...and you can sit with me... in my arms..." His voice quiets to almost a whisper. "...for as long as you want."


Jade looks out the window at the passing scenery, then back to Dan, giving his hand a squeeze. They'd been on the road an hour already, but this time she didn't have to sit on a crowded bus. They wouldn't get back to the ranch until tonight, but she didn't care. Just being with Dan the whole way was worth it and she was going to enjoy every minute, spending the hours with him. There was only one little raincloud.

Her fingers curl around his a little tighter, though she tries not to distract him from driving. "Dan... I don't know when it'll be but... but my dad's gonna be back sometime and..." She hadn't yet broached this subject with him. "...well... how are we gonna tell him... about us?"

You

Entering the auto shop Ryan lets out a yawn before taking a sip of her coffee. It had been a long night of spending more time with her brother and his new toy, and than restless sleep as she tossed and turned.

"Hey, are you two gloating about being ahead again? Haven t you learned that means nothing most of the time?"

Giving a grin Ryan heads into the break room to throw her cup out, and than back out into the docking bay. Going over to Leo she gives him a kiss that linger for a few moments before moving back to her work area. Throwing her jacket over the chair by her work bench she glances over at Leo again and gives a wink.

"I kind of like his Santa hat. Its only been one day why not share the cheer a little more."

Swiveling around in her chair for a moment Ryan seemed a little hyper today witch was surprised seeing as how little sleep she got. Maybe the coffee was kicking in faster than normal.

Letting her mind wonder Ryan's thoughts drift to Alec for a moment wondering what he was doing now. Maybe she could get out of work a little early and go see him! Was that really a smart idea?

Giving her head a shake almost as if remembering she was at work Ryan trys to clear her mind. That was the last thing she wanted to think about at the moment.

"So what go we got on the agenda for today?"

Taking a swig of Mountain Dew Dalton answer's the phone. Classical music can be heard playing in the background. He figured Scott wouldn't be in today wanting to spend more time with Hope so he had his music up higher than normal. But hearing Scott's shaky voice on the other end Dalton is alert and spinning in his chair to turn the music off and listen to Scott better.

"Scott...what...what are you talking about?"

Listing to Scott a little clear this time Dalton still didn't understand completely, yesterday had been Christmas, Scott would of been with Hope. But if this is what Scott wanted him to check he would.

"Ok, give me one second to access the information."

Keeping Scott on the other line Dalton does as he is asked. Clicking on a keyboard in the background can be heard proving he was fast at work with Scott's request.

It takes no time for Dalton to pull up the information he needed. Scanning things over, and looking through files. the security, and everything else that could be leaked outside.

"Scott...everything looks fine. No security has been hacked, nothing has been transferred out. Everything is as we left it before Christmas. Whats going on? Are you ok?"

Enter the dinning room BJ trots behind Rosetta. He was ready to spend the day doing...little boy stuff. Maybe even help Mick a little. Looking around the dinning room like most of the people did when they entered, BJ's little eyes see his big brother sitting at a table alone.

Going over to the table BJ struggles a little to get the chair across from Dylan out but finally does. Waddling his butt a little bit he climbs up the chair and sits down. Folding his arms onto the table he leans his head down onto them copying Dylan like he had the other day. Finally lifting his head a little to peek out eye out, a smile forms on his face.

"Good Morning Big Brother."

Making her way over to the table where Mick sat Rosetta comes up behind him and wraps her arms around his neck. Leaning down to give him a hug and kiss.

"Morning. How did you sleep lastnight?"

It was so good to have her husband back again. This went smoothly while he was gone but it just was not the same. She hated the feeling of not having him there. But now he was back, he was better.

Holding Sparky's hand in her own after he brushed away her hair Faith just wanted to feel him close. Looking up at him her eyes were bright, and there was a tiny bit of fear that layed behind them. It scared her to think this could be her last day with someone she had just met, and fallen so completely in love with so fast.

"I don't care what we do, as long as its with you."

Bringing Sparky's hand to her mouth Faith gives it a gentile kiss before resting her cheek against it for a long moment. Finally looking up into Sparky's eyes again Faith gives a small smile.

"It's been a long time since I've had anyone ask me what I'd like to do. So, I think it should be a take it as it comes day. Climb a moutain, ride some horses, go for a picnic, the movies...as long as the day is with you I am completely happy and have gotten more than I dreamed of.

Your loss

Eli isn't so sure about his sister's response, but he lets it slide. Maybe there were just things she didn't want to talk about right now, and he respected that.

Hearing about something in his bedroom, he quirks an eyebrow. He hadn't been back there all day and had no idea Ryan had put anything there. "What?" Curiously, he goes to find out. A few minutes later, he lets out a whoop and swings back into the kitchen, grabs Ryan and spins her around. "You little sneak!"

Laughing, he gives her a hug and a teasing kiss to the top of her head. "Did anybody ever tell you that you're the best sister ever?"

Still grinning, Eli shakes his head. "You realize now I'll be up all night setting that thing up."

It wasn't all night... only part of it, but he wound up getting his way before heading to bed for the night. It had been a good day. Not because of the gifts but because of the time spent with ones who cared about each other. When the world could be forgotten for just a few hours, it was a blessed day.


Drawing the bracelet out of the bag, Scott runs his fingers over it then reads the note, a smile forming on his face. Putting it on his wrist, he admires it a moment before taking Hope back into his arms and giving her a loving squeeze. "Thank you... no one will ever know how much this means to me." And he was right - the note was correct... Hope was so much more than a name to him. With all he'd been through, this would be a reminder every day.

This Christmas had been the worst and the best at the same time, and he wouldn't easily forget the time spent with Hope. Maybe things with his family weren't great right now, and maybe he was going through an inner struggle... but at least he had her and she really was his lifeline.


"Leo! Christmas is over!"

Leo's head pops up out of an engine, a silly santa hat on his head. "What? You kidding? It was just yesterday."

"You gonna scare away the customers," Jed teases.

Leo smirks at him. "What would life come to if there wasn't me to pick on?"

Miles laughs as he enters the shop. "What's all the commotion?"

"Slacker!" Leo shouts.

"Hey, at least I'm not the last person in today," Miles defends. "I didn't see Ryan's car out there yet."

"True... but Jed and I are ahead of you both now. Better get busy on the Buick or you'll never catch up."


"Come on, let me talk to Reese!" Alec shouts his frustration into the security camera, knowing that Hal was listening. He'd been locked into his room this morning after going upstairs and heading to Reese's office without warning. Hal had tackled him and manhandled him back down to the little room, Alec fighting him the whole way, swearing he wasn't trying to pull anything. Now he was locked in alone again with a notepad of all he'd written the day before.

"Just let me talk to him!" He curses Hal before pacing again, then glaring back up at he camera. "Okay, fine. Your loss."


Scott stares at the computer screen, his mind seeming to take over without his will. His fingers typed on the keyboard with speed, breaking through password securities and scrambling anything someone might be able to trace.

Deep down, his soul screamed at him to stop, but it felt as if he were a robot, unable to control himself. The Agency files came up, opening a communication window. He was in. He would tell them all about where Phinox was, and Alec and Gage and Carson. He began to type, also reminding them that they had lost Thirteen and she was still under watch of the Elite.

Still typing, sweat poured down the sides of his face. He didn't want to be telling them all of this. He wanted to stop. But his hands wouldn't let him. He had once described his feelings to Dalton as if it were a computer virus inside of him, and that's exactly how it felt now.

Everything was spilled to the Agency about those the Elite now had. Passwords were shared, and security information was passed to them without stopping. They would have access to the Elite database now, but it would take months for anyone here to notice.

Scott was a mole against his own will. But if he told anyone, his life here would be over. As he closes back down, his eyes see every bit of information he'd leaked, and all the windows began to close as commanded. No one would know.

Looking down, he sees his hands are trembling, cold and clammy. This couldn't be happening. It couldn't. "No!" he screams, prying himself from his computer. His heart began to race and he presses himself up against the wall, now feeling as though someone was watching him. "Get out of my head!"

Sitting bolt upright in bed, Scott's scream echos through his small house. Domino cowers in a corner, whimpering after being kicked off the bed and not understanding what was happening. Sweat pours down Scott's face as he stares into the dimness of his bedroom. His heart was racing and he felt sick. It was just a dream.... it was morning... he should have been to work an hour ago... Hope had gone home later last night and he'd gone to bed... It was just a dream.... right?

Fear grips him and he goes for his bedside phone. Dialing quickly he waits until he hears Dalton's voice. His own voice is shaky. "Dalton.... Dalton, check our security..."

He rubs his eyes, a raging headache making it hard to think straight. "Lock my computer out of the system... just lock it out so I can't have access to anything." He was desperate. "Then check and make sure no security was breached last night."


Mick wanders to an empty table to sit down with a fresh cup of coffee, waiting for Rosetta to join him a little later after BJ was up. It felt good to be home... very good. Things were a little different... but sometimes change was good.

He'd spoken to Sparky last night and they had at least shaken hands. His brother had accepted his apology, and though there was still a rift there, maybe there was still a chance for healing. Mick had been surprised to hear that Sparky and this other woman were quite close, though he hadn't spoken his mind about it. It didn't seem like a wise situation, but having been gone, he decided it was better off to remain quiet. He hadn't seen Dylan this morning, but figured he'd be around and didn't want to push his son right off the bat.

There was a lot going through his mind... Jade would be coming home today... that was another bridge he needed to repair. Sighing deeply, he closes his eyes for a moment, trying to keep his mind clear. Today he would try to get back in the groove of things around the barn and get his bearings once more.


Dylan trudges from his bunkhouse, not really wanting to be up yet. But he knew if he didn't show himself, his father would be after him, and that's the last thing he wanted. He wasn't hungry though. He didn't want breakfast. He didn't want to go to the barn either. This place sucked.

Stuffing his hands in his hoodie pockets, his feet drag until he reaches the dining hall. Letting himself in, he sees only a few people are up yet. He sees his father over closer to the kitchen, but avoids eye contact. Instead, he finds a chair in the corner and folds his arms on the table to rest his head. He'd just sit here until someone told him to move.


Back in a quiet corner of the barn, Sparky leans an arm on the wall, while his other hand reaches out to brush aside a stray strand of Faith's hair from her face. "This is your day today."

He wanted it to be a good day. Tomorrow she'd be going to the hospital, and as much as he didn't want to think about it, he knew there was a fifty percent chance she would not be coming back. If this were to be their last day together, he wanted to make it special.

"Anything you want to do," he offers. "Anything, anywhere... just name it."

Hope

Taking a quick shower it wasn't long till Ryan was changed and out, both boys still sitting in the kitchen staring at the cake that was on the plates ready and waiting.

"Ok, now we can dig into it."

Enjoying the dessert and the other munches food the time seemed to pass so quickly. Just enjoying each others company, exchanging gifts from the heart and having a nice time. It was such a nice time Ryan hated that it had to end.

Now sitting alone on the couch after saying walking Leo out, giving him a kiss, and letting him know he would see her at work tomorrow Ryan's mind could not be held at bay any longer and it started to wonder, mixture of that and memories of her family ran through Ryan's mind. Even after so long around this time it was always hard.

Staring blankly at the TV Ryan couldn't help but wonder what Alec was doing right now, and soon to follow that though was the advents of earlier in the afternoon. The slow bit of guild cheeped up on her again. Still not understanding why she had been possessed to act as she had to start with. Though playing that through her mind, she couldn't help but wonder if she wouldn't do it again. Alec was very handsome, and there was an elemint to him that was soft though it was hard to see.

Having her concentration broke as Eli sits down next to her and his comment hit her ears, Ryan turns her head to look up at her brother and give a soft smile. She new her brother could tell something was different, or at least she was deep in thought. But how did she even explain it to him right now when she couldn't explain it herself? For now maybe it was best to let her do her best at figuring everything out.

"Amongst other things, its just the time of year. Even after all this time has gone by its hard to get past the end of the year and keep a smile on."

Letting out a sigh and leaning forward on the couch Ryan leans her elbows on her legs just looking down at a few of the gifts that lined the table in front of her. Maybe the whole thing with Alec would blow over and it was a one time thing? Part of Ryan hated saying that, there was a want for it to be more, and yet there was Leo the one she had fraught so hard for, and she was happy with. He'd done everything right. Ryan just didn't understand, she'd never faced this before.

"I guess...I'm just contemplating a few things. I'm not even sure what to be able to tell you Bro. My mind is all a bumble at the moment and I am just trying to sort it out."

Looking up at her brother again Ryan gives a small smile before standing. Laying a hand on his shoulder her eyes showed thanks.

"Thank you for asking. Now, onto something a little more happy. Why don't you go to the spare bedroom and find your last gift. I'll do the dishes up here ok?"

Waiting in the bedroom was the flat screen tv Eli had been drooling over for the last few weeks. It was the HD plasma, but instead of the 37" Ryan had upgraded it to the 42" getting a good deal on it. Along with it was a blue ray player and a few movies. Eli deserved something nice seeing as he had very little to call his own. Not to mention this was the first Christmas in a long time Ryan spent with her brother and she wanted to make it count.

As Scott shifts a little on the couch Hope opens her eyes. She wasn't sure how much time has passed since they first sat down, it was just so comfortable she didn't much care ether. This was there night, and she had all the time in the world.

Seeing the gift put in front of her Hope takes the package gently still leaning comfortable against Scott. Removing the paper gently Hope opens the package. Seeing the necklace laying in the box her fingers touch the chain, and the small pendent. A gasp coming from her mouth. It was so pretty, and it meant something very special to her.

"Oh Soctt, its beautiful. I love it, thank you so much."

Taking the necklace out of the box Hope asks for Scott's help as she puts the chain around her neck snapping it in the back. It fix perfectly with the shirt she had on laying just the right langth to be flat against her tan skin.

Shifting a little herself Hope retreaves a bright blue and silver bag for Scott. Inside was another package tiny but in red paper to stand out, and inside that layed a leather band bracelet with a metal name plat on it. Craved into it was the work Hope, Wings were around the outside of the name.

A little not was attacked to it so Scott would understand when he saw it. It read..

Hope, not only the name of the one who will always be there for you but also a reminder that no matter what happens there will always be hope. I am so proud of you Scott, and I love you!

Also in the bag were a few other things for his office, few cans on MD, and a bag of jerky. Hope really hoped he liked the bracelet. It had taken her weeks to find the perfect one she wanted.

Nickel

Having had no idea that Ryan was in the apartment, both men jump. Eli whirls around with the knife held up in front of him, and Leo hides behind Eli's larger frame, peeking around his shoulder.

Realizing it was only Ryan, both men's expressions turn from surprise to sheepishness. "Uh..." Eli give her a silly grin. "I thought maybe I misunderstood your directions?" Sighing dramatically, he lowers the knife. "Oh, alright. Leo, can you wait five minutes?"

"I don't know." Leo moves to lean heavily on the counter, feigning starvation. "I can... I can try."

Starting to laugh, Eli points to the hallway. "Get going, Speedy. Five minutes and we're digging into this thing." Watching Ryan leave, his eyes linger where she'd stood for a moment. Something seemed just a little... out of place. He couldn't quite put his finger on it but... hmm. He tries to shrug it off for now. Maybe her meeting with the little convict hadn't gone as well as planned.

True to his word, by the time Ryan returns, Eli has the pie cut and on plates waiting. Heading to the living room, their little celebration continues with dessert, followed by gift-giving. It was a fun time with lots of laughs mixed in with a few sweet moments with some of the more sentimental gifts.

As the evening draws on though and it starts to get late, Leo is reminded he has to work the next day, so he bids Eli and Ryan goodnight, giving Ryan a quick kiss and is out the door. The apartment seemed quiet after he'd gone, even though the television was still on and Eli was busy cleaning up leftover food and wrapping paper from the living room.

Eli balls up some more paper and throws it into the trash bag, wandering around and cleaning up best he could before sacking out for the night. He'd had a good time tonight... best Christmas in years. Spending it with his sister had been a treat and he hoped she'd enjoyed it too, distracted enough not to have to think about their dad or brother not being with them.

Taking some dishes to the kitchen, Eli pauses on his way back to the living room, cocking his head at Ryan. Something was on her mind. He could tell. Maybe it wasn't much, but there was a slight cloud in her eye, one that was either just a passing shadow or a sign of a storm to come. Which, he couldn't tell.

"Nickel for your thoughts." It was something their dad used to say, always willing to pay more than a penny to hear what his kids were thinking. Eli wanders closer to Ryan, sitting down on the armrest of the couch and waiting to see if whatever it was was something she would talk about or not.


Scott sighs a deep sigh of contentment and closes his eyes, just sitting with Hope for the longest time. The peace and quiet was soothing.

Domino finds the spot Hope had made and curls up with them both, a full tummy and ready for a nap. The three lights continue to glow and the silence seemed to wrap its blanket around them.

After a time had passed, Scott shifts a little, reaching behind him to the end table and retrieving a slender little gift wrapped in silver and blue paper. Still sitting behind Hope, he slides it over her shoulder for her to take. He had a few other little things for her, but this was the one he hoped she found special. It had taken him an hour of looking before he'd settled on the delicate silver chain with a silver heart pendant, a sparkling diamond decorating the inner point. It was dainty, but if one looked closely enough, they could see that on the rim of the open heart was an engraving: S & H.

"I'm not good at carving trees," Scott explains softly. He'd chosen a heart instead.

5 more min

Throwing Alec one more grin Ryan disappears into the darkness of TJY. She would be back, when she wasn't sure. Now once alown making her way back to her car Ryan's mind had a chance to think. What had she done with Alec, when put that way it sounded so bad, but it was bad. She had Leo and Leo trusted her yet she went a kissed some other guy. Why had she done that.

Getting into her car Ryan just closes her eyes for a moment thinking about what happened. It was almost like she was reliving it. She could feel the tingles, the strange warmth that came from Alec. Ryan had felt so pulled to him, almost like she had no control, not that she didnt mind. But that mind set was wrong she had Leo, yet at the same time she felt only a small bit a guilt but it was enough to drive in a steak to her heart.

Opening her eyes again Ryan lets out a sigh putting her car into gear Ryan heads for home. Eli and Leo would be waiting and possible worried about her. She would think one this and try to figure it out more later.

Entering the house right as the bowl of popcorn goes flying Ryan can't help but raise her eyebrow. Peeking her head around the corner she doesn't let her presence known as she just watches the two boys and listens.

Hearing about the big screen a bigger seems to form on Ryan's face, than about there hunger and wondering where she is Ryan just shakes her head. Seeing them get up she slips into the hall knowing they would go around the other way. Heading in the opposite direction she just continues to watch them leaning against the door frame there backs to her, her keys in her hand.

Eli and Leo got along so well and Ryan loved watching them interact. They were so funny weather they new it or not. Seeing her brother finally pick up the knife a smile pass over Ryan's face.

"Elijah McKade don't you even think about it, you know darn well what I meant."

Stepping into the kitchen a little more Ryan shakes her head at both men giving a laugh that followed. Though her eyes held a strange confusion, or maybe cloudy contemplation to them not many might see. But only who new her better than she new herself may be able to pic up.

"If you both think you can wait five more minutes for me to take a shower, when I come out we can open gifts, and eat ok?"

Being brought to the couch with Scott Hope sinks down with him. Leaning comfortable into him she rests her head against his. Bringing her hands to Scott's arm Hope gives them a squeeze returning the hug. He meant so much to her, even if he didn't talk to her was there for him and she just wanted him to know that. If nothing else she just want Scott to know he wasnt alone.

Leaning her head back a little to look into Scott's eyes Hope gives a smile before gently pressing her lips to his and than retreating again leaning her head on his chest.

Making room on the couch for Domino to come and jump up Hope felt so content watching the flicker of the little tree over in the corner and being wrapped in Scott's arms.

Hope

Oh, but when... when? Alec cocks his head as Ryan's lips brush his ear, twisting until his head was down further to kiss her neck. As she draws away though, he lets her go, whatever sense he had left telling him he should.

His eyes catch hers again and though his face seems to lack expression, his gaze holds a million thoughts, all revolving around a set of emotions that had risen out of their dormant depths. Leaning on the doorway, he watches Ryan leave until she's out of sight. He suddenly realizes he's been holding his breath, and he lets it out slowly, tilting his head to rest against the wall. Where on earth had he just been?

Like a curtain lifting on a scene, it's as if Alec begins to think about what just happened, coming back to reality from a daze. What had he just done? What had possessed him and why in the world had he just let himself do that?!

Blinking with confusion over his own self, he turns and wanders to his cot, flopping down to lie on his back. He had to be crazy. Absolutely crazy. He didn't even know why he'd kissed Ryan in the first place. Maybe he'd just wanted to thank her. Maybe because he'd been wanting to do it since day one - she was an incredibly attractive woman. What man wouldn't want to kiss her? Maybe it was because she was starting to draw out the inner feelings that had been buried and he didn't have any other way to express them. Maybe it was as simple as the mysterious and enticing pull she had on him.

Alec stares at the ceiling, replaying everything in his mind over and over again. She had returned his kisses, no doubt. He knew she'd enjoyed them as much as he. A warm tingle spreads through him with just that thought.

And under it all, something had begun to rise to the surface. He had felt again. He had felt the warmth of emotions that he thought were too far gone for him to ever feel again. He had felt something for Ryan other than a physical attraction. And he had felt something in return when she had responded willingly. And it felt... good.

Rolling over, Alec stands up and begins to pace. This had started a whole new and unexpected chain of events in his mind. These thoughts, these feelings... it didn't make sense, but it was there. It felt almost as if something was signaling daybreak in his soul... a soul that had been in the dark of night for over six years.

Grabbing a nearby pen and pad of paper, Alec's hand hovers over the lines. No... he couldn't. Just because of one kiss? What was he thinking? He sets the pen down and paces again, but soon he is right back there again. His jaw muscles tighten and relax, tighten and relax. His fingers grip the pen until he throws it back down, walking in circles all over again. And once more, he returns, the paper still blank, the pen in his hand. He had to be absolutely nuts. But maybe... just maybe... there really was something bigger here. And for once, an additional emotion wriggles its way up out of the depths: hope.

Growling at his own indecision, Alec throws caution into the wind and begins to write. And he doesn't stop until hours and a half a pad of paper later.


"Noooo!" Leo throws the empty bowl of popcorn over his head, sending it flying behind the couch and near the kitchen. "How could it end like that?!"

Eli stares at the television screen, throwing his arms up in the air. "They totally left the movie hanging! That's not fair!"

Smirking, Leo sighs. "So much for that. Good thing Ryan didn't stick around. She woulda hated this thing."

"I think you're right." Eli grins. "Except she probably would have thrown that bowl at the tv and we'd be getting a new present for Christmas."

Leo quirks an eyebrow. "We could have a replay of the bowl if you really did have your heart set on that flat screen."

Laughing, Eli shakes his head. "I'd like to live another day, thank you." Yawning, he stretches and glances up at the clock. "She's late. Go figure. I'm hungry."

"Dude, we just stuffed ourselves and then snacked during the movie."

"And your point is...?" Eli grins. "It's Christmas! A day to stuff 'til your burst, didn't you know that? McKade tradition." Standing up, he stretches again. "If my sister doesn't show up in fifteen minutes, I'm gonna go down to TJY and knock somebody's head through a wall."

Leo lifts his eyebrows. "Or you could call her cell."

"And.... what would be the fun in that?" Eli trots to the kitchen where there was pie waiting on the counter. "Ryan didn't say we couldn't have a piece yet did she?"

"Well..." Leo gets up and joins Eli, staring at the pie. "I think she said it was for 'later.'"

"Later as in... later than when she made the statement, or later as in later tonight?" Eli ponders a moment before grabbing a knife. "What am I talking about? I don't care what the definition of later is."


Domino perks up as she sees Hope's plate being lowered to the floor. Wriggling with excitement at more good food, she trots over and immediately begins to clean the plate, pausing only to look up as she receives a pat to the head, as if she was saying thank you. It didn't last long though as she returns to devouring the turkey and loudly licking up any leftover gravy she could find.

Scott's chuckles and shakes his head. "I don't know why you're thanking me but for what it's worth... you're welcome."

Rising from the table, he goes to Hope and holds out his hand, leading her to the little living room before sinking down on the couch. Sitting in the corner, he brings Hope into his arms, leaning her back against his chest with his arms around her and resting his head on her shoulder. Closing his eyes, he tries to push the negative feelings from his mind. This was supposed to be a happy day. He was trying to hard not to think about his conflict with Sapphire, or the Agency. It was hard though.

Carson had confirmed that it was simply going to take time as far as the Agency was concerned. He'd told Scott that there was no way to reverse the assimilation and that Scott's brain just needed to chill. but it would take time. He explained it by comparing it to eyes seeing a single glowing light bulb, while the brain registered seeing a hundred strobe lights. When Scott would see or hear something that triggered information he had, his brain was pulling it all up at once whether he wanted it to or not, and it was basically overwhelming his brain. Thankfully, Carson had been confident that with time, Scott would be able to conquer the automatic response and retrain his brain to only pull up that information when he wanted it to - not on its own or unexpectedly. The anger however... that was something different altogether and would take just as much willpower to overcome.

Scott buries his head a little further into Hope's shoulder, holding her just a little tighter. "You know you're my lifeline," he whispers. And she was. With all that going on inside of him, she was the one thing that was keeping him sane. He just needed to focus on now and quit thinking about everything else. He hadn't yet told Hope about how he was struggling with the Agency thoughts and anger issues. But she was there and that in itself brought at sliver of peace.

Whisper

Taking Alec's hand Ryan thought it very nice of him to help her down off the table. Just standing there for a long moment she catches her balance as everything seemed like it was still moving a little. Her heart still beating fast, but not nearly as fast as a few moments ago. Finally able to move again Ryan makes her way to the door. Alec's arms still around her she can feel his warmth his her back and can't deny it warmed her.

Feeling Alec's breath on her neck and ear, and giving her a gentile squeeze along with his words Ryan gives a little shiver. Not from fear though, but from the tingle than ran down her spin. If she stayed any longer it was for certain they would get into a kissing match once more.

Turning to face Alec once again his arms still around her Ryan gives a small grin and a gentile nod of her head. Wrapping her arms gently around Alec's neck and give a little squeeze to bring him closer, and a tiny hug Ryan leans in giving him a soft kiss on his eat letting her lips linger there as she whispers.

"You have my word Alec, I will be back and I don't make a habit of breaking my word, to anyone."

Giving his ear one more gentile kiss Ryan pulls away as his arms drop from around her giving a wink and a smile she turns ready to leave once again.

Sitting at the table Hope smiles across the table at Scott. She'd enjoyed cooking for him and now eating dinner, though Hope could see his mind was miles away. She could see the look in his eye that showed his missed this time spent with family and though she said nothing about it Hope felt so helpless not being able to help.

Hearing Scott's comment Hope's own smile grows as her eyes twinkle looking back at Scott from across the room. Hope, only hoped the rest of the night could be good for Scott. She liked seeing smile and hated seeing him so sad like this.

"Mmmm...As long as I was with you Scott we could be in a card bored box and I would spend it with you. Cold, but it wouldn't matter as long as I was with you."

Taking another bit of her food Hope pushes her own plate away from her full from such a good meal. Leaving some turkey on the plate Hope sets it down on the floor for Domino giving a grin and a side long glance to Scott, than back to there little friend.

"Shhh...its Christmas, she can splurge a little right?"

Patting the little dog's head gently Hope looks back at Scott once more taking a sip of her coffee before replying to him.

"Thank you Scott, for shearing this time with me."

Liable

Taking in Ryan's kiss again, Alec lets it linger, in no hurry to let go. But when she pulls away, he doesn't stop her. His hands rest on her waist and his eyes boldly lock with hers without fear. "The table has heavy braces," he counters, also catching his breath.

He can tell she's serious about leaving though, and he wasn't going to make her stay. Not only would he get in trouble with Hal or Reese, but if he tried to pull any stunts with Ryan, he knew she would not return.

Surrender flashes in his eyes and he straightens, backing up a step and offering Ryan a hand to slide back off the table. Turning her towards the door, he walks behind her with his arms wrapped around her torso. Stopping at the door, he tilts his head down to her shoulder from behind, taking in the scent of the sweet shampoo that lingered in her hair.

"You better keep that promise about coming back," he whispers as his arms tighten a little bit around her. "Now I'm liable to miss you."

Finally letting her go, he steps back so she can leave.


Scott plays a little bit with the rest of his food on his plate then looks down to see Domino hasn't left. Shaking his head and grinning, he gives her another little piece of turkey. "You're gonna have to go on a diet after this," he warns.

Her more than him - he hadn't eaten much, even though it was Christmas, and even though Hope had helped cook some delicious food. But he knew better than to try eating too much when his mind was in turmoil. He would only wind up making himself sick and that would be worse.

He and Hope had yet to exchange gifts though, so he hoped the rest of their evening would be a peaceful one. He missed being at his parents this year. Though they didn't always get along, Christmas was the one time they could look past their differences and get along and renew their relationships. But not this year. No... not this year.

Pushing his plate aside, he rests his elbows on the table and looks across at Hope, offering her the best smile he could. "Thanks for spending Christmas with me," he comments softly. "I feel like I finally found what's been missing all these years."