Quiet

Once Katie goes to make the sandwiches, Jeff heads to his horse's stall to start saddling up. He knew Katie would give him all the time in the world, but he wouldn't lollygag. 

As he has his mount in the crossties, movement catches his eye and he looks down the barn aisle to see Eric and Stacy walking by. Together. Yes, obviously together. Again, that strange little feeling enters his gut and he sighs. Well, so much for that. Hopefully Eric was happy at any rate. It did seem a little unfair though. He'd had it in mind to do something special with Stacy and Ashlee as a belated birthday treat for Ashlee but... maybe that wouldn't be so smart now.

Pain brings his mind back to what he was doing, and he realizes that he'd just cut his hand on the buckle to his saddle's girth. Muttering under his breath, he wipes the blood off on his jeans, but it the cut was just deep enough that it didn't want to stop bleeding. Sighing, he goes to the supply room for the first aid kit. He knew good and well to take care of this one - he was on blood thinner for his heart and if he didn't get this covered, he might never get it to stop bleeding. Strike two for the day.

It takes a bit of doing, along with several bandaids, but once he's finally got that under control, he goes back to tacking up, trying hard not to let these things get to him. Everything was fine. He was fine. Things were good. His daughter was here... it was going to be a good day. 

Once finished, he leads his horse outside to wait for Katie. 

Jason laughs and heads out into the hall. "The Sandwich Basket it is then. Do I look like a guy who would argue with the baby? Ten bucks says he or she will have at least five times your stubbornness, and that, I will not go up against." 

Leading the way outside and to his pickup, the ride to the little restaurant doesn't take long. It was a little later in the evening so it wasn't very busy - which was pleasant. 

Seated to the side, Jason works on his sub, while conversation has a bit of a hard time coming. It was kind of strange though... even though there were many pauses, Jason didn't feel they were awkward. As unfortunate as it was, he and Misty had something in common right now and neither needed to say it. 

"Mmm." Pete returns Nikki's kiss before smiling. "I can't decide. I want to help with the dishes, but you fit so nicely right here that I could just stand here all night." 

Giving her a little squeeze, he finally lets her go, moving to the side and grabbing a towel. "Your mom's asleep on the couch," he informs. "She seemed pretty zonked from the day." 

He pauses and wipes a plate thoughtfully. "What did the doctor say at her appointment the other day?" 

Sitting on her couch with a good book, Ariel is a little surprised to hear Trey's voice. "Hey there..." 

Hearing his offer, she quirks an eyebrow. Dinner? He'd even pick her up? That seemed pretty nice of him. Did she want to?" 

"Umm..." She glances to the wall to squint at the calendar. It was clear. She worked during the day but the evening didn't have anything going on unless she went to the stable. Did she really want to go hang out with Trey? The last time they'd met had been kind of nice and at the very least, she knew he needed some good friends right now. She also wondered if he'd decided yet on whether he was going to stay in Nevada or go back to Mexico. Maybe that's what he wanted to talk to her about. 

"Okay. Tell me what time and I'll be ready."

Baby Said

All saddled and ready Katie continues to brush her horse as she waits for Jeff. She didn't mind how long he was she could stand here and brush for hours knowing the horse wouldn't mind either. Hearing Jeff though she turns and gives a smile.

   "No problem, I don't have anything else planned so take your time."

Hearing about the food Katie takes the rains of the horse and ties it around on of the posts.

   "I'll go grab them while you get ready."

Katie didn't mind and Jeff wouldn't feel rushed. She could get the food and Jeff could get ready it was killing two birds with one stone and a way to calm her excitement a little bit.

Heading to the dinning hall and into the kitchen Katie find the stuff to make sandwiches and pulls everything out getting to work. Once she was finished she starts looking for the bag she new use to be around here somewhere for lunches to be packed in when riding was the method of transportation.

Misty smiles a little and shakes her head. She new Jason would have given her a hard time and she probley would of done the same to him but for once she didn't balm him for wanting to work late when she new why she was doing was almost the same.

   "I have to pick huh? When than your driving. I don't want to have to do all of the work now."

Just giving a faint smile Misty grabs her leather jacket and her wallet before starting to exit the infirmary with Jason. Thinking about where she wanted to eat her stomach gave a learch to somethings she thought about while other seemed to make her even more hungry.

   "I don't think I am the one deciding where to eat at. Everything I think of my stomach feels sick."

Misty can't help but give a genuine laugh. It was still strange thinking of herself having a baby but she was slowly getting use to the idea, and was starting to get excited.

   "The baby said the Sandwich Basket sounded good. As long as thats ok with you."

As Pete comes up behind her Nikki can't help the smile and the small murmur of pleasure. She loved feeling his arms around her. It made her feel safe, sheltered, loved, and everything else in between. Pete just had a special way of making her feel extra special.

   "Can't have you feeling left out ya know. You can help by drying the dishes...or just standing there holding me. That's always a big help."

Turning her head to the side Nikki gives Pete a soft kiss on the lips before pulling away. Just looking into his eyes the smile never leaves her face. If someone had told her a long time ago that some day Pete and herself would be in a very happy relationship she would of told them only in her dreams. But now it had become real and she could never be more happy.

   "Hey Ariel, its Trey!"

It had been over a week since Trey had talked to Ariel last but he had done it to give her a little space. Things had been hairy since the night he had gotten drunk and in a way he was still ashamed.  But now he was slightly lonely, and maybe it was time to try things again.

   "I was wondering if tomorrow you would like to go to dinner. I can pick you up around four if thats not to early."

Heart attack

Jeff's eyes drift to the floor, knowing good and well that Angel was chiding him under her gentle tone. He also knew she was right. And he was also frustrated. 

Accepting the bottle of pills, he nods. "Okay... I'll let you know how I feel." He remains seated for a few moments longer, just studying the bottle, lost in thought. It had been a good visit with his brother... and a bad one at the same time. He knew he deserved Angel's reminder to take it easy, but sometimes when he just wanted to let off some steam, he was trapped between letting his emotions out and making himself ill - or worse. He had a weak heart, a weak immune system and just about anything else that could be weak... and he knew it. Getting a simple cold was cause for concern. Getting too upset or even too excited could give him a heart attack. And most of the time he didn't feel very good - he just hid it well. There were days he considered just throwing a temper tantrum so he'd have that heart attack and just be done. With his luck though, he'd survive as a vegetable.

Finally standing, he forces a perky smile to Angel. "Thanks. I'm heading out to ride, but I promise I won't do any crazy stunts... at least not very many." 

Grinning, he tosses her a wink. "See ya later." Heading outside, he tucks the bottle in his pocket and takes route to the barn. Finding Katie, he gives her a warm hug. "Good morning, Sunshine. Give your old man a few minutes to saddle up and I'll be ready to go. Oh, and there's some sandwiches in the kitchen fridge we can grab before we go." 

Jason gives Misty a grin. "I'd give you a bad time myself for working this late... if I wasn't doing the same thing."

Biting his lip, he looks down at her and finally nods. "Yeah... I guess things are just a little too quiet, even with Trooper giving me a bad time." He shrugs. "I got an invite to go bowling with some friends but... I dunno... guess I wasn't in the mood." 

A pause follows before he shrugs and fishes his keys from his pocket. "Well... I'm ready whenever. We can take both our cars or I can drive us if you want. You're gonna have to pick the place anyway."

Pete leans on the kitchen door frame just watching Nikki wash the dishes from supper. A faint smile was pasted on his lips, his mind seeming to be far away. He'd had a nice evening here with Nikki and her mom. He liked it just as well as a date night, enjoying both their company and being in their home. There was a peace here that was too inviting not to feel. 

Eventually coming into the kitchen in his socks, his footsteps are almost silent. Approaching Nikki from behind, he slips his arms around her waist and leans his head over her shoulder to blow a soap bubble in the air. "Can I help? I feel left out."

Don't listen

Looking Jeff over Angel just listens to him at the same time. She could tell there was more to what he was saying and things might have been a little worse than what he was leading onto but she wouldn't push the issue to much. He was here now and she was looking him over so that was good. 

   "What is it with you guys humm? I tell you to take it easy and you don't listen to me."

Angel shakes her head her eyes twinkling to show she was not upset but she did mean what she said. If they would slow down a little bit and just relax things would be better but one thing she had learned if anything was the guys at this ranch where thick headed, but she loved them all anyways.

   "Well I don't normally like putting people on medicine when I know they  can control it on there own but maybe in this case if I give you a low dose it might be a good thing. You're going to still have to try and take it easy though...and I mean it Jeff? If you don't its going to be the death of you."

 Going over to her cabnit and looking through the bottles Angel finally finds the one she is looking for. Separating it into another bottle she goes to the computer and prints out a label before putting it on the bottle as well and talking back over to Jeff.

   "Here you go. Take one a day with some thing to eat. Come and see me again in a few weeks and we will see how your feeling ok?"

Holding a finger up to Jason to wait one second Misty continues to write a formula down she had been thinking about. Getting to the end she finally looks up and gives a small smile. Most everyone was gone now though Misty still felt like someone was there it seemed her guess of it being Jason was right.

   "Getting something for dinner sounds nice. It will get me to stop working too. If Reese finds out I haven't gone home yet...I'll hear it tomorrow."

Closing the folder she had been working on and turning around to put it back in the file cabnit Misty closes and locks it. Turning she stands at the desk for a moment before looking up at Jason again and studying his eyes. Did he really not want to go home or did he know she didn't want to go home either. Maybe it was a little bit of both, and through this time they could support each other.

   "I guess we both have something else in common too now. We don't want to face home alone."


  

Half truth

Jeff was glad that Katie liked it her and liked spending time with him. The only thing he'd argue was that he didn't feel he'd been there enough for her... especially when she'd been growing up. Though at the time he'd given her up to Jay he had felt it was best, there were days now he held regrets. 

"Alright then, it's a date." He smiles, already looking forward to tomorrow...

"Oh good, I hope the answer is yes." Eric gives Stacy a flirtatious look before standing up and gathering their dirty bowls to take to the sink. "Looks like I'll see you in a little while then...

"...we kinda got in a little spat..." Okay, so it was more than a spat and thinking about it still got Jeff's hackles up. But he really didn't want to go into details. Sitting in the chair in Angel's office, he chews on the inside of his lip, hoping she wouldn't read into things too much... but she usually could see right through him, and he feared what she might say. It was the next morning, and he had come to her bright and early to get this over with before meeting Katie in the barn. 

"Anyway, I guess maybe I got a little too riled 'cause I sorta got short of breath... chest got kinda tight..." No, really tight, but he wasn't going to admit it. "I went and laid down for a while and I felt better though." Actually, he'd gone to lay down so in case he passed out, he wouldn't fall to the floor.  

He shrugs. "When Rick was here that one time, he suggested something for anxiety or something like that so... I guess I thought maybe I should see you about it." 

It was quitting time for the day, but Jason found himself still in his office. Not that he wanted to work, but he didn't really want to go home just yet. 

Finally though, he leaves his office to wander down the hall. Knocking lightly on the infirmary door, he pokes his head in to find Rick gone for the day but Misty still working. Not surprising. Jason suspected she didn't want to go home either. 

"Hey..." Coming in and walking slowly to her desk, he hooks his thumbs in his pockets. "Thought you might still be here." 

He wanted to ask how her day had been but... he knew it probably hadn't been so great. "You wouldn't wanna.... go grab a sandwich or something for supper, would you? I'm looking for excuses not to go home yet."

Flirt

Just listing to her dad Katie gives a nod here and there. He was always filled with such good insight and a take on things no one else really thought of. Even if he said something someone else had said five times over, the way he said it just made more sense in the long run. Not to mention he was always relaxed and layed back about almost everything. Not only because he had to be but thats just how he always was.

   "Thanks Dad, for always be there for me. It really means a lot. Thats another reason I came here...because your here."

It was the truth too. Katie missed her dad and knowing he was here was even better for her. She enjoyed him time with him knowing it was limited. To much time had already been wasted with her not knowing he was her dad. She wasn't going to wast more.

   "I think a picnic and riding tomorrow would be great. I did a little riding alone today to get out some frustration so having someone come alone tomorrow would be great."

Letting Eric clean her cheek Stacy shakes her head letting the food fight die down for not before it got way out of hand. She was only happy Ashlee was off doing something else so she didn't see this little display. She could only guess what kind of comments she would make.

   "I think a hayloft is calling my name too. Or many thats the guy in the hayloft. Either way though I would answer."

Stacy's eyes twinkle at her comment. She was flirting and she new it. In it felt strange but good she liked the feeling.

Hayloft

Eric grins and nods. "Yes... yes I do know I'm lucky." 

Taking the napkin she'd just thrown at him, he reaches over to wipe a little place on her cheek. "Missed a spot." He stifles another laugh. "Wouldn't want anyone around here to think you'd been in a food fight or anything."

Sighing with content, he looks back at his ice cream dish ti find it empty. "Rats. I was enjoying that." He shrugs. "Oh well. I think a hayloft is calling my name anyway..." He lets the sentence linger, giving Stacy a sidelong glance.

Listening quietly to Katie, Jeff takes his time eating his sandwich. He'd been told a little bit, but knew no details, and he was sorry to hear about how Katie and Jason had broken up. 

Nodding slowly, he gives his daughter a sympathetic look. "I'm sorry, Katie... that's never an easy thing to go through for anybody - having a loved one betray your trust like that, I mean." 

Sliding his hand over to hers, he gives it a squeeze. "I'm glad you came though. Life has a funny way of working itself out if we just let it sometimes." He knew she was hurting and confused, but he also knew that she was strong enough to pick herself up and move on - with or without Jason. And if Jason was just going to cheat on her, she was better off without him, whether she saw it now or not. Jeff had liked and respected Jason, but if the young man wasn't going to stick to one girl, then it was just as well Katie find out now and not later. 

Offering her a smile, he nods again. "How about tomorrow morning you and I hit the trail with a picnic lunch? I gotta see Angel first thing, but after that my day is yours... if you want." Maybe she just wanted to be alone - he'd let her decide.

Over Reacted

As Eric comes in for the kiss Stacy doesn't have time to stop him though she probley wouldn't try even if she did have time to react. A kiss from him was all two nice, and she enjoyed the affection she had been lacking for all to long.

Returning the kiss and feeling the whip cream on her cheek as Eric backs away Stacy can't help grin and cock her head.  Taking her napkin and whipping her face again Stacy shakes her head lightly. Crumpling up her napkin she throws it in Eric direction.

   "Your lucky I like you, you know that?"

Katie can't help but laugh once Jeff was back and started talking about Jay. That was one way to look at them and man would it be confusing for everyone. She'd always consider Jay a father though even though she new now Jeff was. He'd still taken care of her for most of her life and for that she would be thankful even through the rough times.

   "He either needs to come here or I need to go see him. It's been a long time since I got to spend time with him and the family."

Taking another scoop of her ice cream Katie savers the flavor for a moment. The cold treat felt good going down her throat after a hot day and spending the time sitting here with her dad she wanted to savor it as long as she could.

Hearing her Dad's comment Katie gives a nod. This was the post she was going to hate the post telling her Dad about her and Jason. For some reason there was a fear of disappointment there and she wasn't sure why. Maybe because she didn't want him to be disappointed she couldn't hold it together or maybe it was something else but it was a feeling she didn't like.

   "I'll be here for at least a month or two. That's how much personal time I have from work. I just...need to take it all to find who I am again."

Looking up at her dad Katie searches his face for a long moment. She always been able to talk to him no matter what even before she new he was here dad. It was just a connection they had always had. Looking at her dad her eyes feel almost like they are one fire like she might cry again but she holds them off for now.

   "Jason and I....we broke up. I walked into the concert with some chick he'd been hanging out with kissing him. He told me he had nothing to do with the kiss, and I over reacted but...I just go so mad I...broke things off, and here I am. I was just really hurt ya know? After everything...it felt like my heart was ripped out."

Vanish

Jeff chuckles and accepts Katie's embrace, giving her a tight hug in return. "Mmm it's good to see you, kiddo. I've missed you too." 

Withdrawing, he just studies her for a quick couple moments, searching her eyes. She looked tired. Stressed. But he was glad he'd made her smile. 

Grinning, he looks around her at the ice cream. "What, you think I'd-" His sentence is cut off as he hears Stacy's shriek, and he turns around to see her and Eric playing around at the nearby table. That was... interesting. Swinging his gaze back to Katie, he finishes his thought. "You know I'd never turn down ice cream. Although I haven't even had supper yet so let me go grab something quick from the kitchen and I'll come right back."

He tosses her a wink before heading to the kitchen. 

Sitting nearby, back in the corner with his school books, Dylan watches the scene quietly. Katie and Jeff seemed thrilled to see each other. She loved him to death and he withheld no affection. Was that the way it was suppose to work, or was Jeff just a little over-the-top? Dylan wasn't sure, but somehow watching them created a strange sense that he was missing something.

Eric looks at Stacy with shock as she gets him back. His eyes look down but, of course, he can't see his cheek, nor can he reach the whipped cream with his tongue - which he tries, creating quite a bizarre yet hysterical picture. 

Giving up, he looks at Stacy laughing and tries to maintain control over his own laughter. Glancing at the table, he starts hunting for his napkin but comes up empty-handed. Eying Stacy again, a devilish glint appears. 

Leaning over to her before she can stop him, he plants a kiss on her lips. But when he withdraws, he makes sure he rubs his cheek up against hers, sharing the whipped cream with her face. 

Coming out of the kitchen with a quickly-made sandwich, Jeff says hi to a couple more people and spots Rosetta to wave at her. Heading back to Katie's table, his eyes once again drift to Eric and Stacy who were, by now, involved in quite the little display of what appeared to be a minor food fight. Seeing Eric lean over and kiss her brings a strange sort of feeling to Jeff's gut. He hadn't been gone that long... were they really... more than friends? It seemed so unlikely, yet this scene made it pretty obvious. And any hopes to continue his pursuit of Stacy and Ashlee's company vanish quite quickly. 

Pushing it aside all for now, he pastes a smile on his face as he returns to Katie, pulling out the chair next to her. "Your uncle dad and your sibling cousins say hi." He grins. "Jay's jealous I get to see you and says one of these days they're gonna have to take a family vacation to Nevada." 

He takes a bite of his sandwich and gives her a playful nudge with his elbow. "So how long are you here for? I hope long enough to go for some horseback rides."

Whip cream

As the hands go over her eyes Katie sits back in her chair and a smile slips across her lips. Hearing the voice it confermed not she had any doubt on who it was. Katie couldn't help the small laugh.

   "I new it was you dad the moment you started coming up behind me."

Turning in her chair and standing Katie can't help but throw her arms around Jeff giving him a tight hug. She was wondering when he would be back. Out of all the people here he was the one she wanted to see the most. They had always had a connection to each other before she even new and now...it just seemed to grow knowing he was her father.

   "I'm glad your back I missed you and wondered when you would be home. Want to share the rest of the ice cream with me?"

Having the ice cream put on her nose Stacy gives a little shreak as Eric withdraws. Looking at him and than cross eyed at the ice cream on the tip of her nose Stacy shakes her head. Taking her napkin and whipping the ice cream from her nose Stacy looks to Eric again.

   "Think you funny eh?"

Stacy had been really having a nice time with Eric and it was continuing. Acting quick Stacy takes some of her whip cream and streaks it across Eric's cheek before bursting out in laughter at him. Not being able to talk but just laughing.

Dessert

Dani was glad Carson knew, while at the same time, finding him even more despicable now. Leaving his wife was bad enough - leaving his wife and unborn child was even worse. What kind of a man was he really? All this time she'd fallen prey to his lies that he was a good man who loved his wife and family. He'd come to Dani's rescue and she'd taken him for her big brother hero just like she had as a child. Had she been so blind? It made her sick. 

Pushing aside all those thoughts, she resumes her smile and nods to Misty. "You're welcome, but I can't help it ya know." She reaches over to give Misty's hand a little squeeze. 

"I really am excited for you. And... and I'm glad you and I are okay despite the circumstances. As far as I'm concerned, you're my family no matter what. And if you need anything - anything at all - please let me know." 

Eric was glad that Katie accepts his invitation, and it isn't long before he and Ashlee both have their mounts ready to go as well. He keeps it a light lesson today, letting them  have a little bit of fun, while keeping a good eye on Ashlee to make sure she was doing alright. He takes it easy himself though - with his leg feeling better today, he didn't want to just make it worse again by riding too roughly. 

Once the lesson is over, he heads back to the barn with Ashlee, while Katie goes for her own ride. He knew Ashlee would like to go out on the trail sometime too, but he wanted to make sure she was good and ready before letting her do that.

The rest of the day seems to go fairly well with few mishaps. It's rather quiet but no one seems to mind too much. By the time dinner rolls around, half the people were energized for the evening, while the other half was weary and ready to call it a night. When dessert is served, not everybody has stuck around... 

...Sitting at one of the tables with Stacy, Eric takes a small spoonful of his ice cream, savoring the flavor as he lets it melt in his mouth. He didn't usually let himself enjoy something sweet in the evenings, but tonight it just seemed to hit the spot. Not to mention, it kept him here with Stacy just as little longer too. 

A silence had fallen over this particular table, while conversations continued around them. Yes, it was quiet. Too quiet. 

Without knowing what to say but not liking the silence, Eric's finger "somehow" winds up traveling to his ice cream dish, to Stacy's nose, then to his mouth to suck off what was left of the cold treat. Trying not to smile, it doesn't work very well as he chokes on a laugh while looking at the ice cream on Stacy's nose. 

Slipping in through the back door, Jeff's eyes scan the room. It wasn't really worry that he felt... well, maybe. More concern than anything. Trent had assured him it wasn't an emergency, but he had encouraged Jeff to come back as soon as he could, to see his daughter. And he'd wasted no time. 

Not paying much attention to any of the others, he returns a couple waves but once he spots Katie, he makes a beeline for her table. Coming up behind her chair, he motions for the others not to say anything before slipping his hand around to cover Katie's eyes. "If you guess who, I won't steal your ice cream."

Riding

Looking down at her papers at Dani's question Misty wished so many things were different. She wanted to be happy, she wanted people to be happy, she didn't want everyone to ask her the same question. She new why they were but she wished they wouldn't. There was joy there and Misty just wanted to feel that.

  "Yeah...ya...he knows."

Glancing up at Dani again Misty gives a small smile. Carson new and thats pretty much where it ended but to have Dani still part of her and the baby's life was important. At least the child would know part of its family and that was important. So seeing her get excited was nice as well. She wanted to see that and was happy.

   "So yes, I'm pretty excited about the baby and I was hoping you would be too. I needed that...so thank you."

Continuing to hold Kaylee and just enjoy her energy Katie turns hearing Eric's voice. Giving a smile and letting Kaylee get down she just watches them. That was one of the many things about the ranch she loved. Everyone was family no matter what and everyone looked out for each other. The energy was just amazing.

About to go back to work Katie stops and turns back to Eric at the invitation. It was a little surprising, why she wasn't sure but it made her feel good. It had been a long time since she had been riding and doing it again might be fun. 

Looking around the barn for a second she was pretty much done with what she was working on so there really wasn't an excuse why she couldn't. It might be a little fun and she had heard about Ashlee and Stacy being at the ranch this could maybe help her get to know them as well a little more too.

   "Ok, I'll come along. Let me go saddle up my horse and I'll be right out."

Smiling and giving a nod to Cindy Katie turns and heads back into the barn to get her horse ready. She could talk to Cindy and see Kaylee more a little bit later. Maybe the second time around it wouldn't be as awkward. 

Minutes later Katie was coming out of the barn her horse beind her. Going to the training ring she just waits for Eric and Ashlee to show up. She wasn't sure where the training was at so she would just wait, and watch, and take everything in. Maybe after that she could head out on one of the trails.

Ham

Dani doesn't even realize it when her jaw drops. Misty was pregnant? She was going to have a baby? With wide eyes, Dani stares at her for several moments before a smile slowly spreads across her lips.

"That's so exciting!" A little giggle slips out. "I rather like the idea of having a little niece or nephew to spoil." She clasps her hands in glee. "Oh my goodness, how fun. I..."

Her voice trails off as a terrible thought enters her mind, and her smile is replaced by a look of question and concern. "Does Carson know?"

Kaylee giggles as she's picked up, and she wraps her arms around Katie's neck, giving her a sloppy kiss on the cheek. She nods vigorously. "Yes!" 

Cindy chuckles and shakes her head. "She likes to think she's a perfect child... a holy terror is more like it." She rolls her eyes. "I don't have to have seen Wes as a toddler - I can just imagine what kind of trouble he go into because this little stinker certainly doesn't get it from me." 

Kaylee has no idea what her mother was talking about, but she giggles again anyway, grabbing her pigtails to shake her head vigorously while making motor sounds with her mouth.

Cindy smirks. "Ham." 

"Do I hear a giggling ham?" Eric comes around the corner, grinning as he takes off his gloves. 

Kaylee spots him and squeals before wriggling loose of Katie, sliding to the ground and running as fast as she could towards him. 

Catching her as she reaches him, Eric scoops her up, lifting her high into the air before swooping her back down and landing a loud raspberry on her cheek. Kaylee falls into a fit of laughter before babbling cheerful words that only she understood.

"Is that so?" Eric sets her on his hip and walks to Cindy and Katie, grinning. "Sorry. Didn't mean to interrupt the girl time."

Cindy smiles and shakes her head. "We're just out for a walk. I thought it might wear her out... now I'm not so sure." 

Eric chuckles before setting the little girl back down on her feet. Tipping his hat back on his head, he glances to Katie. "I'm giving Ashlee a riding less on a while... you're welcome to join in if you want, just for the fun of it."

Bright Spot

Hearing a soft voice say her name Misty looks up seeing Dani. Giving the best smile she could Misty new why she was here. She was not upset with Dani because of what Carson did she had nothing to do with it, it was just thinking about Carson in general.

   "Hey there Dani."

Misty really didn't know what to say. Was she ok? No not really...she was broken and hurting. Her heart had been ripped from her chest and all she wanted to do was cry. But if she said it would only make Dani worry and thats not what she wanted. 

   "I am trying to push forward the best I can at the moment. Thank you for asking."

 

Thinking for a second Misty thinks about the baby and how Dani was going to be an Aunt. She had a right to know but Misty wondered how much more angry that would make it. It didn't matter though she had to tell her. Dani was family no matter what and this little one would be her family.

   "Ummm..Dani I wanted to let you know, your going to be an aunt. No matter what you will always be my sister in law and thats why I thought you should know."

Katie gives a nod to Cindy. She new she must feel kind of crappy now but she didn't want her to. It wasn't her fault no one told her so Katie couldn't blame her at all.

   "It's alright, its not your fault."

Cindy was like a mother to her she always had been and she always would be. It was one of those things Katie was always proud to tell people. Cindy was such a kind hearted woman she only hoped this falling out wouldn't put a rift there. Something told Katie it wouldn't but she couldn't help but worry a little bit.

About to say something else Katie stops feeling Kaylee tun on her pant leg. Looking down at the little girl Katie's smile grew. She was always so good about taking a moment full of teniton and making the full of joy.

Setting her pitchfork aside Katie bends down and takes the hey from Kaylee bringing it to her nose to smell it and than scrunching it up.

   "It's very pretty thanks you."

Giving a laugh Katie tucks it in her pocket before bending down again and picking up Kaylee and holding her in her arms. She was always a bright spot in anyones day.

   "And hello to you as well. Have you been good for Mommy since I last saw you?"


  

Hi hi

"Okay - thanks." Dani slips her arm around Dalton's waist and gives him a little squeeze. "I'll be back shortly." 

Slipping out of the office, she walks a little ways down the hall to the infirmary and takes a deep breath. She had no idea what she would find. Opening the door a crack, she spots Misty and is half glad and half not-so-glad that she'd have to face this now. But better now than letting too much time pass. She needed... wanted to do this. 

Entering quietly, she bites her lip as she comes closer to Misty's desk. "Misty?" Thankfully she'd gotten her little temper tantrum over with so now it was compassion in her eyes. 

"I, um... I just wanted to stop and let you know that..." That what? That she despised her brother? That she knew he'd left his wife? That she didn't want Misty to think she sided with Carson? 

She swallows hard. "I'm just so sorry," she whispers. "Carson told me he'd left and...  and I'm so upset with him and, and... and are you okay?" 

Seeing how awkward Katie became, Cindy wondered if she'd said something wrong. As the truth is explained though, she realizes that the awkwardness wasn't her fault - there was just a much bigger story than she knew... and it saddened her. 

"Oh, Katie, I'm so sorry. I... I didn't know." Why hadn't Jason told her? They'd exchanged emails since she'd been back in Texas. He'd seemed rather distant, but he'd said nothing about this. Was it because it was his fault? Something about the way Katie implied he wasn't lonely and that he had wanted opportunities elsewhere led Cindy to believe that the breakup was a result of something Jason had done. But what, she didn't know. 

Stepping close, she sets a hand on Katie's shoulder, her eyes full of sympathy. Katie and Jason had been so close for so long... Cindy had often found herself thinking about Katie being her future daughter-in-law. Was it really over or was this just the result of a spat that would be resolved soon? She couldn't tell. All she could tell was that there was pain in the young woman's eyes. 

"I'm glad you're here though. This is a good place to find oneself." 

"Kate!" Kaylee tugs on Katie's jeans and looks up at her, her pigtails bouncing. She gives her a big grin, scrunching up her nose. "You." Holding up her hot fist, in it is several pieces of loose hay she'd picked up - nothing special, though obviously to her they were something to be treasured. She giggles, still hanging on to Katie's pantleg. "Hi hi."

Memorie

Holding Dani still Dalton manages a smile. He understood what Dani was trying to say even though she was having a hard time doing it. No matter what happened with Carson Dalton would still think the same of her and love her like he always had. He new who she was and thats what mattered to him.

   "Oh yes as long as your still up to it we are. Scott is going to come with us if thats ok and Hope too. I thought it would be a nice."

Dalton smiles at Dani before looking to Scott and giving a little nod than looking back to her. They had a little bit more work to so a few extra second to work on a little more would be ok.

   "Just let us know when your ready ok?"

Giving a nod to her Uncle Misty new working right now really was the best thing for her. She wouldn't sit and stew about things, and she did have unfinished work to do anyways.

   "Alright thanks for the talk."

Standing Misty gives a half smile to her Uncle. It was the best she could offer right now but at least she was trying. Leaving his office and heading to the intermarry she slips in quietly and sits down. Pulling a file from her desk the silver bracelet that she always had on caught her eye. Carson's initials carved into it. She had worn it since the day that seemed like forever ago he gave it to her. Pushing on the clasp she unhooks it and open the top dest drawr and pulls out a small envelope dropping it inside along with her wedding rings. Looking down at her empty hand there was an imprint still on her finger of where the rings had been...she felt naked without them..but it was better to do it now than try to do it later.

Diving head first into her work Misty is quiet and working diligently and quickly. Filling her mind with so many different formulas, and equations she couldn't think about anything else. Not right now, just for a little bit she wanted the hurt to go away.

Moving around the barn and doing some chores Katie had deiced to help. If she was going to be here a whole she should earn her keep like everyone else. Not to mention she liked being around the horses and barns she really had missed it.

Hearing Cindy's voice Katie lets out a sigh small enough no one would see it. Cindy was the one person Katie was nervous about seeing. She wondered what Jason had told her, and how she would act. Katie didn't know what she new and what she didn't but she new this encounter would be awkward.

   "Hey Cindy, yeah I got in late last night."

Leaning on the pitch fork the words that followed grasped at Katie's heart as she realized Cindy new nothing about what had happened.  An awkward situation turned even more awkward and Katie didn't like this feeling at all. She shouldn't be the one telling Cindy this it should be Jason but Katie couldn't lie now either.

   "Yeah I left him back in Nevada, as for being lonely...I don't know about that. I think he's got the company of his friends. Cindy...I..."

Shifting her weight a little bit Katie didn't know how to tell Cindy about what happened, or to even how much to tell her. She new she had to now but how. The poor woman had already been going through so much this would just be another thing added to it.

   "Jason and I aren't together anymore. We had a falling out, and I don't know if it was a long time coming, or the lack of communication, or he just...wanted to seek opportunity else where but...I'm here to try and find who I am again...and...he's back home. We aren't talking right now. I'm...sorry I thought he would of told you."

   "There is screaming, and a boy. He looked so scared and unable to move. He...He is calling but I can't make out the words. The building was about to collapse on him as another bomb goes off and all I could think of was....what if he was my child. I couldn't just let him die..he had as much of a right to live as anyone else."

Wes open's his eyes and looks back at the dr who was busy writing things down. A week had passed and nightmares still came to him. Though he could see no faces, remember no names or reasons they came and torched him.  It was like seeing shadows with no colors, and hearing voice but not the words. He could only guess they were part of his past.

   "Did...I try to save someone? Is that why I am like this?"

The Dr looks up from his paper work and gives a small nod. Before looking down and starting to write again. Clearing his throat and putting his glasses up on his nose again he finally speaks.

   "When we found you, you were under rubble from a house. Under you was the body of a small boy it seemed as though you were trying to save."

Wes eyes grow slightly big. He was no hero for sure but he was trying to save a child. That must mean he was a good guy right? His past was clouded but that meant he had morals, and maybe even someone important. 

  "Did he make it?"

   "He's still in for observation but yes..it looks like he will make it too."

Sitting back and giving a small smile Wes was thankful. If he never got any of his memories back at least he new that he's saved someones life so the reason for his memorie loss was not a total wast. This was a good start to remembering maybe a little more information and they could find out why he was here.

Disappointed

Grinning, Gage's cheeks gain a little bit of color. He'd worked hard at this, for sure. But it wasn't easy for him to take a compliment. 

Walking Sapphire to the door, he bids her goodnight and promises he'll see her tomorrow night. Closing the door, he turns and sighs deeply, just looking around his apartment. Checking the time, he finds that he's not tired, despite the hour. So instead of calling it a night, he aims for the spare room and turns on the light. Grabbing a box and emptying its contents, he sorts through paints, brushes and more, starting to set up this room as his art room. And it felt oh so good. 

Dani rises out of her chair to welcome Dalton's arms. Nuzzling into him, she sniffs again, fighting her mixed emotions. It wasn't her that Carson had left - he had his life and it wasn't her responsibility to look after him, nor was it her place to tell him how to live. But she was just so very disappointed in him and hurt that he would do such a thing. She agreed with Dalton's last statement, but it still hurt. No one would blame her for anything, but Carson's actions were still a reflection on his family, and she was his sister.  She could only hope that no one would be uneasy around her as a result of what he'd done. 

Sighing, she looks up at Dalton and manages a little smile. "Thanks... I'm sorry for bursting in here. I just didn't want to go home and do something stupid or anything. I'm just so... so..." 

"Disappointed." 

Dani turns to see Scott and nods. He knew. "Yeah. Sorry for bursting in on you too. I didn't realize you were even here."

Scott shakes his head and gives her a crooked grin. "I'm only half here anyway. Besides, I mighta done the same thing if it were me." His gaze goes back to his computer for a moment. "Who did you say Carson is living with?" 

"Um... Jaz something or other." Dani wipes her eyes, now composing herself. "I think I've seen her a few times lately and there was always something I didn't like... almost like I've suspected something all along but just thought it was crazy to even think that so I decided to ignore it." 

"Mmhmm..."

"Why? Do you know her?" 

Scott shrugs. "I've got a whole file on her." 

Dani furrows her brow. "What do you mean?"

"Up here." Scott gestures to his head. Jaz's first name alone had triggered a flash of data. Thankfully, with so much practice with Justin, those flashes didn't usually overwhelm him anymore, and he could think about the data much more calmly now. "She's ex-Agency like Carson."

"So he did know her before."

"Yeah. They were together on a list of missions a few years back."

"Then... this isn't the first time with her." 

Scott shakes his head sadly. "No... no, it's not." 

Dani sighs deeply. "Well... this sucks." Moving away from Dalton, she rests her hand on his arm. "I want to see if Misty's here... I feel like I need to at least say something to her. We're still going to do lunch though, right?" 

Though Reese lifts his eyebrows, he really wasn't all that surprised that Jason was supporting Misty. He'd always seen that those two got along well and... in a way, Reese was glad Jason had something other than himself to focus on right now. Ever since Katie had left, Jason had been sluggish in his work and Reese had been leery of giving him too many cases. Maybe being able to think about somebody else for a while would help him get his mind back on track. 

"Well I'm glad. I can't think of anybody here who wouldn't help you if you needed it." 

It would be difficult for him to keep Carson on staff, but he knew that he couldn't fire somebody for living a lifestyle he wouldn't choose. There would be days when Carson would be here and he would be on cases and his path would cross with Misty's. If Reese had his way, he'd never hire Carson for another case again. But unless Carson did something illegal or anything worth not having him on the Elite team, Reese was bound to continue having him do work. That didn't mean though, that Reese would have to give him any special privileges, and... he wouldn't.

He gives Misty an extra little squeeze. "How about you work for a while and get your mind occupied with some other things, and we'll talk more again sometime, okay?" 

Cindy lets Kaylee toddle along beside her, walking slowly past the barns and to the dining hall. She hadn't been around the ranch much since getting back but... gradually, the days were looking a little better and she was able to socialize a little more again. After the morning rain had passed, she'd opted for a nice long walk that would tire out Kaylee enough to take a nap later... hopefully anyway. 

Passing the open barn door, Cindy spots a familiar face and is surprised but smiles. "Well hi, Katie." She approaches as Kaylee bends to pick up a piece of hay to study intently. "I didn't know you were visiting." 

Not that she needed to know, but she usually heard when she was going to come. Having not been told by her son the things that had transpired, her smile remains. "Left Jason all by his lonesome back in Nevada, huh?" she teases.

Dumb Butt

As Gage helps her hands up Sapphire just smiles. It was nice that Gage gave her the credit for helping him do everything and maybe encouragement was all he really needed but most of this he had done on his own. She'd just been there to continues having faith in him and push him in the right direction.

   "Your welcome but I can hardly take all the credit...you did this all yourself. I just gave you the encouragement to do so. I'm proud of you."

Leaning in and giving Gage another kiss Sapphire takes a few steps back. Her eyes twinkled. She really was proud of him and everything he had done. It meant a lot to her and she was happy to see him grow.

Taking in the explanation once again Dalton could feel his own heart turn heavy. For Misty, for Dani, for himself, he'd really looked up to Carson and respected him and now all that was shattered. For what? Because he wanted to be with someone besides his wife? It was a hard thing to comprehend but it sucked. Dalton didn't understand why Carson would act like he changed only to fall into bad habits again.

   "I don't blame you for quitting."

Seeing the tear that escaped Dani's eye Dalton stands and goes over to her. Bending down and wrapping his arms around her just sheltering her with comfort. There were so many things going on right now it was hard to think what one was sadder, Carson hurting his wife, his sister, his friends. He'd turned his back on everyone who had giving him another chance.

   "It's going to be ok Dani, we will figure it out. Your brother is a dumb butt and thats just all there is."

Dalton really didn't know what else to say beside comforting Dani. She looked so sad and so hurt it crushed his heart. He hated seeing the people he loved hurt, seeing them cry. He just didn't understand how Carson could do this.

Misty was thankful again for her Uncle's kindness. He'd always been like that with her even from day one. She was very thankful to have him in her life, and she couldn't think of anyone else she would want to take his place. Giving a sniff and a nod she new it was right. This wasn't her fault, and this was just...who Carson buried underneath everything. Maybe you really couldn't change a person deep down.

   "Thanks."

Hearing her Uncle talk about the baby and her being watched Misty can't help but let her smile grow a little it more. despite the rain and sadness there was good and hearing a little bit of excitement in her Uncle's voice helped with that.

   "If I need any time off I'll let you know. Right now I am ok through, I don't really do much outside the office so I should be ok. As for being watched like a Hawk....Jason kinda made mention to the same thing."

Sadder

"Okay." Gage nods his agreement. "Movie... and making out. Yes... it sounds like a good plan to me." 

Grinning, he stands and offers Sapphire a hand up. "Thanks, Saph... for everything. You know, I wouldn't be here if it weren't for you. All this I've got... what I've accomplished... I'm actually in my own apartment now - I never thought I'd have that, and... well, I don't think I would have, if you hadn't had faith in me. So..." His hands clasp around hers. "...all kidding aside... thank you." 

Dani growls and grabs an extra chair, flopping down in it. Taking a deep breath, she lets it out slowly, trying to calm herself. "It's just like I said... Carson left Misty for another woman. He's moved in with Jaz already and just told me about it this morning before I got off work." 

Now that she'd gotten all her anger out, she found that hurt resided underneath it all too, and tears sting her eyes. "I'm sorry I yelled, I just... I'm still in shock and I can't believe he'd do something like this but... but he did." 

She sniffs and swallows hard. "I told him I was gonna quit my job too. I just can't work for someone like him... who lives a lie like that."

Hearing all of this, Scott's heart sinks a little. He had his problems with Carson because of the Agency, but nevertheless, he'd thought the man had changed. At the very least, Scott had known how happy Misty had been, and that made this whole thing even sadder. 

Reese despised divorce. It was not of God and it tore apart families. But in this case, there was no way he could condemn Misty for her decision. She had the grounds, and with her past history with Carson, this was simply the last straw. Reese didn't need to know details - anybody else he might question as to whether or not things could be worked out, or he'd encourage counseling. But looking at Misty now - he had no doubt that this was one situation that could not be resolved.

He nods slowly. "I understand... and I don't blame you." He keeps his arm around her, wishing there was some way he could make all of this go away for her. In a way, he was glad she was taking action so quickly - it would help get things over with faster and maybe she could finally move on from Carson's despicable behavior.

"You're right - it's not you. Carson developed his bad habits and... and this sickness... long before he met you. You did all you could and I'm sure that none of this has anything to do with you - it's him and his giving in to things he shouldn't." Reese knew there were always two sides to a story, and it wasn't like he lived with them to see how they functioned as a married couple. But he knew good and well that Misty had tried her very hardest to be a good wife, and that was proof enough for him.

"If you need any time off work for anything, just say the word. I don't want you overworking yourself and jeopardizing that baby." He gives her a new smile. "You know you're gonna be watched like a hawk now, right?"

My Brain

Sapphire laughs as the roll and accepts Gage's kiss. She never tired of feeling his lips pressed against her and his sense of humor was always just as good.

   "I think I can do dinner tomorrow with you and a movie as my place sounds good too."

Returning yet another kiss Sapphire laughs again as she finally sits up. It was moments like this she had learned to cherish. Time went by way to fast not too.

   "That was if we wanna continue the kiss....we can do that too."

As she Uncle comes around and puts his arms around her Misty was thankful for the comfort. It felt nice to be sheltered and told they were there for her. Even if Misty if it just the confirmation right now was nice too. It helped her remember she wasn't alone, and things in the end would be ok no matter what.

   "I'm...I'm not going to wast anytime. I already called this morning and set up and appointment for tomorrow with a lawyer to write up devours papers. I can't keep going back and forth back and forth...not now, with the baby. I just can't."

Letting out a sigh and leaning into her Uncle for a moment just saying it hurt. She new it was something she had to do but it still hurt. She'd given Carson many chances and she had told him if he ever lied, or cheating on her again it was over. If he hadn't changed by now than he never really was going too.

   "I still don't get it...I tried to keep him happy, and I know its not me but it feels like it."

Busy working away Dalton was completely wrapped in his work when Dani burst in. Giving a jump Dalton could see the look on her face and it was pure anger. His heart raced wondering what on earth was going on.

Continuing to listen Dalton tried to say something several times but is cut off and can't say anything. Just sitting back in his chair his eyes wide her glaces at Scott and gives a shrug before looking back at Dani. He'd never seen her this mad before and he hoped he never did again. Everything was was saying thing all blended together and it was hard to follow but if he was correctly his heart hurt. He had respect for Carson and now...it was shattered.

  "It's...it's ok...ummm...So first off I want to say I hope I never make you that angry and second can you give a short slow verson for my brain to handle on whats going on please?"

Ignoramus

"Mmmm... I don't know." Gage doesn't let go of Sapphire just yet. "Sometimes pushing the limits is worth the fallout." 

Rolling over to reverse their positions, he grins down at her, propping his elbows on either side of her. "But I'll let you go if you promise me dinner tomorrow night." 

Leaning down, he gives her another long kiss. "And a movie..." He kisses her again. "Here." Pausing, he thinks for a moment. "Wait. I don't have a DVD player." A teasing glint reenters his eyes. "I guess we'll just have to have some more of this." After one more kiss, he finally sighs and sits up, releasing Sapphire from the floor. "Unless we go to your place," he reasons. "Then we could do the movie thing."

Sitting behind his desk, Reese was speechless. All he can do for several moments is just stare at Misty. One second he was elated at the news she was pregnant, and the next, he was dumbfounded and horrified to hear about Carson leaving her. Seriously? Carson had left her for another woman? After all this time? After being married? After all the promises and the life change ,and everything? And when Misty was going to have his baby? 

Anger burned deep within him, but he keeps it at bay... for now. For Misty's sake. He wasn't upset with her in the least, and just looking at her so small and weary and broken, there was no way he could express his anger in front of her. No... no, she needed compassion right now - that was more than obvious. 

Getting up and moving around to sit beside Misty. "I am... so sorry to hear that Carson did that to you. I never would have imagined it, to be quite honest." Even after all Carson had done before, Reese had truly believed he'd changed. Obviously Carson was still a good liar. 

Slipping his arm around Misty's shoulder, Reese gives her a little hug, then smiles. "But congratulations about the baby. I couldn't be prouder of you." That much was true. He didn't get to spend a lot of time with his niece, and maybe he kept his feelings to himself too much but... when it came right down to it, she really was the daughter he'd never had. 

"Anything you need... anything at all... you just ask, okay? I mean it. I obviously don't know any details about what's going to happen now with you and Carson but no matter what, I'm here, okay?" 

Instead of heading home to change clothes as planned, Dani aims straight for TJY. Dalton would just have to take her in her work clothes that smelled like the kitchen. The more distance she put between her and Mom and Pop's, the more her anger grew. Her brother... Carson Banks... had just proven what a jerk he really was. All this time she'd thought he'd really got his life together... really wanted a good life with Misty. But no. No, he had to flush it all down the toilet, and for what? Another woman? Who was to say this Jaz woman would hold his interest any longer? She got what she deserved, for sure. A while down the road, she'd be the one left with nothing and Carson will have moved on to the next new thing.

By the time Dani parked in the TJY parking lot, she was livid. Slamming her car door, she stalked inside, ignoring everybody who tried to greet her. Making a beeline for Dalton's office, she doesn't even knock. Bursting inside, her glare permeated the air. "Of all the stupid, low down, dirty, rotten...!"

She shuts the office door behind her with a bang, throwing her purse in the corner. She doesn't even notice Scott's wide-eyed figure behind the other monitor. She only saw Dalton, and he was the sounding board she chose.

"Can you believe it?! I mean really?!" She throws up her hands in disgust. "Carson... my own dear brother! How could I have believed him? How could any of us have been so stupid as to think that he was really sincere about his life?! All he really does is throw it away!"

Pacing the office, she doesn't even give time for any response, barely even taking a breath. "And for what? For what?!" Approaching Dalton's desk, her anger only heightened. "Do you know what he did? Do you know what that ignoramus admitted to me just this morning?! He's moved! That's right! Moved! Without his wife!"

By now, Scott was leaned back as far as he could go in his chair, just a bit worried Dani might start throwing things or try swinging at fist at the nearest target.

Dani holds her glare on Dalton. "And do you know why he moved without his wife?! Because he's got another woman!! That's why!!" Her hand slams down on the edge of the desk. "You should have seen him tell me. All cool and calm like he was telling me he bought a new stereo or something. Well let me tell you, that half-wit's got another thing coming if he thinks I'm gonna approve of his ludicrous behavior!"

She resumes her circle of pacing as her hands do just as much talking as her mouth. "I'd like to take a shotgun and blow his moronic brains out is what I'd like to do. But even that wouldn't do any good, seeing as though his brain is obviously not what he's been thinking with." She scoffs. "Maybe there's a better target for that shotgun."

All of a sudden, she realizes that not only has she completely dominated the office, but Dalton...wasn't alone. Her cheeks grow red and she finally pauses long enough to catch her breath. She doesn't let go of her poise though, and she simply nods to Scott as if having known he was there all along. "Scott. Sorry to interrupt you two." Her tone was quieter now, and her eyes dart back to Dalton. "I just... needed to get that off my chest... before I really did go get a shotgun."

Limits

Being pulled down on the ground with Gage Sapphire gives a laugh and braces herself up on her elbows so not all of her weight was on Gage. Just looking down into his eyes the smile spread across her face she couldn't help but let her own eyes twinkle. He sure had a way of making her feel special, and she liked it.

   "Ohhh...you don't HAVE to let me go. I mean I work in the morning, but thats about it. If I go in with tired eyes I don't think my boss would mind TO much."

Leaning down Sapphire presses her lips to Gage's for a moment just letting the kiss linger and letting her emotions pour out. She'd missed seeing Gage all day and now that it was late she new she had to go but really, she didn't want too. She enjoyed her time with him, she enjoyed talking to him and hearing about his day. But the reality was she did have to go.

Finally pulling away and rubbing her nose against his for a quick second she gives a long sigh. If she didn't go she would be tired tomorrow and that would not be acceptable.

   "I guess I should go though...Don't want to push my limits to much right."

Once Jason was gone and Misty cleaned up from dinner sleep did not come easy. Getting up again and going to the kitchen she cleaned it more top to bottom even scrubbing the floors. Thinking maybe now she could sleep Misty headed back to bed.

Just laying staring into the dark the bed felt so big, so lonely. Carson's aftershave lingered on the pillow how Misty longed to hold him but new she could not, how she wanted to feel him kiss her good night, but those lips were not her own anymore. And so the sleepless night continued and morning came all to quick but Misty was happy because now she could wake and go to work where the news would have to spread.

..."I figured you would be next in line to know that...your going to be a great Uncle."

Misty's eyes were heavy and tired but work is where she found herself to drowned away thoughts, to become wrapped up in work and forget memories. But she owed it to a few people no matter how tired and sad she was that they should know. Her Uncle would be the first.

   "Carson's left me. I got a note from him yesterday when I got home that said over the last few months he'd been cheating on me and now he was moving in with another woman. Thats why I didn't came back from lunch yesterday...I just...couldn't."

She tried her best to be strong and not let her pain show but she new the more she tried the more it would and her Uncle would know better. Misty might be a strong woman, but her heart was on her sleeve and she human like anyone else.

   "So....thats all thats going on right now."

Two Weeks

Gage grins slyly as Sapphire nudges his foot. Like lightning, he rights himself, grabs her arms and pulls her down onto the floor with him, using himself as a cushion. On his back with her on top of him, he puts his arms around her so she couldn't leave.

"All you gotta do is be around and you're useful," he teases. "Keeping me company is a big job."

Lifting his head, he kisses her lips softly before resting back on the carpet again. His eyes twinkle as a laugh makes her bounce on his stomach. "But I suppose I have to let you go, don't I?" It was his day off tomorrow, not hers.

Not receiving a solid answer from Misty, Jason lets the matter drop. Eventually, everybody would find out what happened - he just wanted to make it the easiest on her as possible.

Pausing at the door, he nods. "Yeah. If I don't see you at work I might give you a call or something." For the first time in too long, he had someone else to focus on besides himself and his own worries. Looking down at her for a moment, his eyes linger on hers until he finally pries himself away. "Goodnight, Misty," he comments over his shoulder as he steps out onto the porch. Stopping at the bottom of the steps, he glances back, throwing her a half smile. It was all he could do.

Driving home he takes his time, his mind full of the day's events. Never would he have guessed this would happen.

The next morning when he goes to work, he doesn't make mention of any of it to anyone, still unsure how Misty wanted to handle it, and not wanting to overstep his bounds. He did keep an eye out for her though, wondering if she'd make it in or not.

Scott smirks at Hope and shakes his head. "Naw, I got a file folder full of phone numbers." He taps his head. "One of these days I'll get a cell phone again too - just gotta figure out what my finances are gonna allow once I start working again." The Elite had been helping him because of the original cause of his situation, but once he began work, that extra support would greatly lessen - as it should. He just wasn't sure what all that would mean.

"I'll, um... I'll see you tomorrow then." Giving her a little wave, he turns to leave. He'd spent a bit of time with her lately... lunch sometimes... going to the park... things like that. Each time though, he just wasn't so sure about where they were going or what she expected from him. Would he ever feel ready for more than friendship? He just didn't know.

"Look, um..." Carson shifts his weight from one foot to the other, leaning back on the counter at Mom and Pop's. It was late morning and Dani had come in just for a little while before taking a lunch break. She didn't usually get to have a normal noontime meal out so she'd taken advantage when Carson had said it was alright - especially when she got to see Dalton. Carson had asked her to wait before going though, so he could talk to her. She'd asked him a lot lately if everything was okay and so far, he'd told her nothing. But after moving yesterday, she needed to know. She had a right to know.

Dani waits, feeling an odd little churn in her stomach. It wasn't like her brother to beat around the bush, and he'd been acting so strangely lately. "What is it? What's wrong?"

"I just... I need to tell you that... I've moved."

Dani blinks. "I don't understand."

"I, um... Misty and I... we're... we've separated."

Dani's eyes widen and her jaw drops slightly. "Separated?" She couldn't believe it. "I'm so sorry. I didn't even know you guys were having problems." She reaches out to lay a hand on his arm. "Is it serious?"

Carson swallows hard. He turns away and starts to clean the counter with a towel, even though it had already been cleaned. "I've moved in with another woman, Dani."

The silence that followed seemed to last an eternity. Dani couldn't believe she was hearing this. Carson... her brother... was living with another woman? It was absurd! "You mean to tell me that... you left Misty... for another woman?"

Carson keeps his back turned and nods. "Her name is Jaz. I just... wanted to let you know in case you heard something from somebody else. I can get you the address tomorrow if you want it." Hearing no response, he finally looks over his shoulder, only to be met with the most piercing glare he'd ever received from his sister.

"Why? Why, Carson?! How could you do that?"

He sighs and looks back at the counter. "It's a long story."

"So tell me!" Dani gives his arm a whack. "Are you stupid?! How could you just up and leave your wife? For another woman?! What is she, another one of your long lost tramps?"

Carson whirls around, now with a glare of his own. His hand balls into a fist as he fights the urge to physically react. "Jaz is not a tramp," he hisses. "Things happen, alright? I know you don't approve and you probably think I'm a jerk, but it's my life. I didn't tell you so you could blow up at me. I told you because I respect you and I wanted you to know before hearing it from someone else."

Tears cloud Dani's gaze as she unties her apron. "So that's it, huh? You just met another woman and Misty's out?"

"It's not like that," Carson defends, his frustration rising. "It's just... it..."

"How long have you been cheating on your wife?"

The question hurt. Carson's eyes narrow. "I'd rather not go into details."

"I bet you wouldn't." Dani shoves her apron at him. "So much for showing your daughter what a happy family is all about, huh? So much for trying to change your life around. You just couldn't resist, could you? You just had to go back to your old ways."

Carson turns to catch the apron. Now was not a good time to tell her she was gonna be an aunt again. "C'mon, Dani... let it rest, okay? Just... leave it alone. I don't need a lecture."

"No... no, you need more than that. You need a good hard lesson and I'll be hanged if I'm not the first to start." She stalks over to a nearby table and grabs her jacket off the back of a chair. "I'll see you tomorrow, Carson. And when I do, I'll be giving you my two weeks' notice. I can't work under a man like you."

"Dani, wait." Carson starts after her. "Don't go like this, please! It has nothing to do with you! It-" The door opens and closes again with a jingle of bells that was far from cheerful today.

Useful

Hope's smile grows as she gives a nod. She could see some of the worry in Scott's eyes but she new he'd be ok and it would work out. Weather he was able to work long or not just trying was a good thing.

   "I have faith in you Scott, and no matter what take steps forward is a good thing. I'm proud of you."

And she was. Every step ward was a step. Even if Scott found out work was not yet something he was ready for it was still a step forward and she would still be proud that he had tried. He deserved to have this little ray of Hope.

   "Oh, and my number is the same so you can just call me on the cell. Do you still have it or do ya need it again?"

   "I..."

Misty thinks for a long moment as she stands along with Carson. Who did she want to know? Everyone...no one? Sooner or later she would have to tell people and everyone would end up knowing. So maybe it was better to let them all know now and not wait. 

   "Alright, I'm not sure if I will feel up to going into work tomorrow or not. I guess it really depends on how much sleep I get. Might be in a few hours later."

Walking with Jason to the door again Misty was thankful for his thoughtfulness and just his kindness. No matter what, no matter what he was going through he was still always there and she new he would continue to be as long as she needed him. And that was what Misty was thankful for the most, Jason's continues friendship.

   "See you sometime tomorrow?"

Sitting in the loan chair by the small card table Sapphire can't take the smile off her face. It was so great to see Gage so excited, and happy. He'd come a long way and was doing a great job keeping his head above water. Sapphire was happy to help where she could for him too without making him think he couldn't do it on his own. 

   "Wow, thats really great Gage, I am so happy for you."

Looking down at Gage and pushing her foot against his  Sapphire gives a laugh. Hearing him mention the car and license she nods a little. She new that was something he had wanted for a little while and she had been helping him when she could. He wasn't doing that bad either.

   "All in due time...till than I don't mind driving it makes me feel useful."

Apartment

Scott smiles a little and nods to Hope. "Okay. I'll call you in the morning and let you know what's happening. I'll, um..." He shifts his weight a bit awkwardly. "I'll be working the morning so... yeah."

He knew that she would see this as an accomplishment, but wasn't sure if he wanted it to be a big deal or not. He didn't want to disappoint anybody if he found out he really wasn't ready to start work again. "I talked to Reese," he explains. "And he's gonna let me work again... just a little, ya know? See if... if I can handle it and stuff." 

Jason returns a smile to Misty, wanting to stay for her, but glad to see her determined enough to go for it alone. "You better not let him win... Otherwise, you're not the Misty I know." He gives her a wink before reaching over and giving her leg a pat. 

Standing, he stretches and yawns. "Okay well... I should get home. Don't forget to call if you need anything and..." He pauses, thinking before looking back down at her. "If you want me to help tell some people at work tomorrow, I will.

"...and so I got a pay raise and they went ahead and gave me these hours permanently. And then later, Professor Deitrik told me he'd like to see me in another class, so I'm gonna see if maybe they'll let me." 

Excitement was not something that anyone would have ever heard in Gage's voice, had they known him before. But tonight, it was unmistakeable. It was getting late, but it was the only time he'd been able to get together with Sapphire today after he'd finished work, and he'd been dying to tell her about his day. After another janitor at the school had quit the month before, he'd taken on the extra work, but knowing it might only be temporary. Even so, he'd finally made plans to find his own place and he had - and now today it was confirmed that he'd actually be able to stay here and start a real future since his job was secure. 

Lying on his back on the living room floor, the apartment was still quite bare. But he didn't care. He was paying for it all on his own and last week had been his first week without an Elite allowance. And it felt... good. The building wasn't too far away from where he'd been, and still within walking distance to work - he'd gotten used to taking the forty-five minute walk every day. The apartments weren't the most fantastic but they weren't the worst either and at least the landlord was nice.

Smiling, he turns his head on the carpet to look up at Sapphire and he laughs. "Now I just gotta get that driver's license and find me a car so I can start picking you up for dates instead of the other way around." 

Won

Hearing the knock on the door Hope looks up and gives a smile when she see Scott. She thought earlyer she had heard his voice but hadn't gone to look. She was trying to give him space and figured if he wanted to see her he would.

   "Hey there Scott!"

Just searching Scott's face for a moment Hope couldn't help but smile a little bigger. Today though Scott was still thin he seemed to have more color to it today. There was a light, a little spark in his eye and it made her pleased very much.

   "I don't work tomorrow but I'd love to have lunch with you guys. If you let me know what time I can meet you here or at the restront."

Misty gives a laugh at Jason's comment. She new she could always count on him, but asking for reasurance made her feel better in taking his help. A small smile spreads across her lips...it felt good to smile. Leave it to Jason for that one.

   "Alright, I wont ask again if its ok. Thank you Jas."

Taking the last sip of her pop Misty lets out a long sigh looking at the clock. She new it was late and the time for sleep was drawing close. She couldn't keep Jason here longer she new he had to work tomorrow. If she could make it through the first night than she could make it through many. She had to at least try even if sleep did not come.

   "I don't know if I will be ok, but I must try. I can't....let Carson think he's won..right?"

Misty trys to give a smile but its comes out a sad one if anyone ever saw one. But at least she had tried.