Anywhere

As Alec continues to sit in Ryan's car she just continues to watch him. She couldn't help but not take her eyes off him. She'd always thought he was good looking and now with a little bit of a calm edge to him it just seemed to add to his attraction.

   "I'd never want to go back and redo something. If I did than I wouldn't have learned the lessons I have. I wouldn't mind changing a few situations though with the knowledge that was gained from it."

Looking away for a second Ryan plays with a loose string thats was on her steering wheel cover. She missed Alec, he had been something special to her, but now...now things were different and they just couldn't be the way they were. Even if she did still care very deeply for Alec. 

As Alec comes close and gives her a kiss on the cheek Ryan can feel her heart start to race. Even when he'd backed away it was still racing. Bringing a hand to her cheek it was almost like she skin was on fire but in a good way. Watching Alec get out Ryan watches him as a tear forms in her eye. So many mixed emotions churned inside her. When did things get so hard? She loved Tal but...she loved Alec still too.

Pulling out of the driveway Ryan backs out of the parking spot and heads for home. This time though she would take the long way as a few tears stream from her eyes. She just wanted to be healed, not to hurt anymore. She didn't like this confusion.

Looking down at his lobster and steak Chad's lips watered. It looked and smelled so well he could hardly contain his own excitement. Taking his first bite it melted in his mouth as he looked across the table at Rosalyn. Hearing her words Chad puts his fork and knife down once again. Cocking his head as he looked at her his eyes were stirn but soft and his voice matched.

   "Rosalyn, this is the second time you've said this to me, and you need to stop. I'm not going anywhere or else I already would have left. Anyone can think what they want about me, and though it would hurt, I know what I want and I am not willing to let it walk away when I know she wants the same thing."

Reaching his hand across the table and letting it rest on Rosalyn's Chad gives a smile to her before closing her hand a little bit letting his just wrap around hers. He had strong feelings for her even over a short amount of time. Tomorrow was uncertain but he new how he felt now and he wouldn't give that up.

Tender

Watching Ryan's eyes, Alec's heart beat a little faster. Oh if only he could rewind his life to right before he made such awful mistakes. To back up and erase his choices. The things that had separated him from the one person who had gotten through to his heart - and he hadn't even realized that until it was too late. 

Realizing he'd been holding his breath, he turns his sights out the windshield for a moment, giving a quiet laugh. "I seem to have forgotten how to get out of your car." 

Looking down, he fiddles with the key he'd retrieved from his pocket, ready to go inside the house. "Ever wish that there were some magic words that could take you back in time so you could redo everything you regret?" 

His eyes drift back to Ryan's again. "I always thought fairytales were stupid... until I found myself wishing there was a way to rewrite my life and have it all magically turn out okay in the end. But..." He sighs deeply. "I suppose that's what a man gets for thinking he's got it all under control and forgetting about the things that mean the most to him." He shakes his head. "Seeing Carson make a similar mistake is like reliving it... and seeing you..." 

He reaches out slowly and tucks a strand of hair behind her ear with a gentle touch. "...Just makes me wish all the more for that fairytale." 

Without stopping to think, he leans over quickly and gives her cheek a tender kiss before pulling back and slipping out of the car. Shutting the door, he taps his palm on the roof before turning and heading to the house without looking back.

Rosalyn manages a quiet laugh at Chad's humor about the lobster. She hadn't thought of how his job might affect his food preferences. "I like seafood too. Actually, it's been quite a while since I've had any. Usually I only come to town for shopping during the week. Or church on Sundays. It's probably been about six months since I was in town for supper at all, and I think that was after some auction or something. I'm pretty sure the meal was hotdogs."

Closing her eyes and just letting herself relax next to Chad, she tries to forget about her dad for now so she could enjoy the evening. Easier said than done, but if anybody could get her to have fun, she had a feeling, it would be Chad.

"There's a decent restaurant I've been to once or twice - I can't remember what it's called, but it's basically a steakhouse and they've got some seafood too..."

...Though not remembering the restaurant name, she still knew how to get there, so once they finally arrive to town, she directs Chad the right way. By the time they get to the restaurant it was supper time, and by the time they get settled, order and receive their food, Rosalyn's stomach was ready to handle the scrumptious smelling food. She'd chosen a dinner with both shrimp and lobster, taking advantage of actually getting to eat here again.

"Thank you, Chad..." She pauses her eating to look across at him, truly thankful that he'd still been willing to stick around after what had happened. "I don't know what things will be like tomorrow... but I'd still understand it if you didn't want to stay. I wouldn't hold it against you."

Anytime

Chasing out and than heading for her car Ryan can't help but laugh at Mackenzie as she makes comments about her car. It always made her feel good when someone would say something, and more so when it was the innocents of a child. It kind of felt like she was bringing a bright spot to there day to meet someone who to them was important.

   "Always remember even though your a girl you can do anything you put your mind too."

Getting into the car and making sure Mackenzie and Alec were all settled Ryan pulls out and down the road. The ride was a little slower than she normal went but that was because of Mackenzie being in the car. Ryan didn't want to put the girls life in danger and this gave her some time to think too.

There was something about Alec that was much different that Ryan had been use to. In the presents of Mackenzie, he seemed...calm,  with a good head on his shoulders and a deep love for the child. She wondered if that was just when the girl was around or had he changed to be like that now? Giving a glance to the side She can't help but noticed he looked much different too. He'd really cleaned up and looked like he was working twords being on the right road. 

Pulling in the driveway and helping Mackenzie out of the car Ryan smiles and gives a wave back to her as she heads up to the house. It had been a nice ride and Ryan had enjoyed meeting her.

   "Cut kid. She seems to like you a lot. I think its pretty cool your doing this for her."

Looking to Alec Ryan gives a smile letting her eyes linger on him for a moment. Now that she wasn't driving she was able to look at him a little better and he was starting to get life back in his eyes. Thought there was still a missing spark but there was life again. Emotions bubbled inside Ryan as her eyes run over his face and on his lips for a second before back to his eyes.

   "Anytime Alec, I dont mind at all."

League

Mackenzie smiles broadly before looking back to Alec and giving his arm a poke. "This is when you're supposed to say yes." 

Alec finally breaks his gaze from Ryan and looks down at his niece with a smirk. "Since when did you start running things?" 

"I don't run things... I just... convince you?" 

Alec tries to withhold his laugh and he gives her a hard enough nudge that she has to stumble to catch her balance. Sighing, he looks back to Ryan, recovering from his embarrassment. "For her sake, I'll accept... thank you." Glancing around and realizing that the lines had grown even longer, he shrugs lamely. "And I guess this is our new spot in line." 

Though just a little awkward, Alec remains in line behind Ryan, keeping himself busy talking to Mackenzie about supper rather than trying to force conversation with Ryan. Once they were all finished shopping, Alec and Mackenzie followed her out to her car - which Mackenzie discovered was very cool. 

"Wow... this is a neat car. It looks like it could be a race car." 

This time, Alec laughs outright as he opens the passenger door. "Genius. It is a race car. As a matter of fact, you're looking at a mighty fine racer."

Mackenzie's eyes widen before climbing in. "Really?"

"Mm-hmm. Ryan here is one of the best drivers I know. Some people think she wouldn't be good just because she's a girl, but lemme tell you... she could whup any guy's butt any day. And.. she does."

Mackenzie giggles. "Did you ever race against her?"

"You kidding?" Alec scoffs, getting in and making sure Mackenzie gets settled in the narrow back seat. "I'd be too frightened. She's always been..." His voice trails off for a moment, returning more quietly. "...out of my league." Buckling in, he keeps his eyes on the road instead of on Ryan where they wanted to be. He was very grateful for the ride, but he knew she probably wouldn't be doing this, if it weren't for the young girl. 

The ride didn't take long though, and as they pull into the driveway, Alec scoots forward and opens the door. "Here, Mac... climb on out and take these bags to the porch, would you? I'm right behind ya." 

Mackenzie nods and crawls out behind him, taking the bags. As she walks away though, she turns and gives a little wave and smile to Ryan before scurrying up to the porch to wait at the door. 

Still in the car, Alec slides back again and finally turns to look at Ryan. "She's um... spending the evening over here. Misty and Carson split and she's not allowed to see him so... I guess I'm trying to fill some sort of spot for her. Not that I know how, but we get along okay." 

Swallowing hard, his eyes search Ryan's face. Being in her car... this close... it brought back many a memory. "Thanks again for the lift... I appreciate it."

Could

Aiming for another line Ryan was a bit irritated with herself as she juggled the items in her hand. She was going to be late getting home now thats she had already been almost home when she remembered about stopping at the same. If Eli didn't have his beer with his steak she'd never hear the end of it. So turning around and coming back seemed like a better option.

As the young woman walks up to her Ryan stops just looking down at her. Something about her name rang a bell but Ryan just couldn't put a finger on it. Following her gaze though as she says she is with him Ryan looks up and is a bit surprised. Now she remembered who the girl was from a time long ago when Alec had let her know about his niece.

   "Well Hey there. I do have a car..and..."

Getting cut off by Alec Ryan gives a small smart as he and Mac go back and forth for a little bit. Watching them both Ryan couldn't help but see the bond that was there even if they were going back and forth. She couldn't help but smile at the whole scene.

   "You can tell your a Banks...but between you and be..thats not always a bad thing...right?"

Looking to Mackenzie and than back at Alec Ryan just gives a little shake of her head though her eye stay on Alec for a very long moment as her feelings bubble and churn. It seemed like she was seeing more and more of him lately and she had mixed feelings about it. On one had it was nice, and she enjoyed seeing him but on the other...she heart belonged to Tal now, Alec had his chance and blew it. 

Glancing down at Mac again she did feel slightly bad for the young girl and having to walk. She was already late heading home maybe a little longer would be ok.

   "Now if I walked away now after the plead I just heard that would make me heartless. So if you guys would really like a ride I can offer you one. I promise I wont drive to fast either."

Thinking for a long second and taking in all the information Nate leans against the desk with the folder in his hand. This wouldn't be to hard of a case, but it still needed to be planned out right. Taking the blue prints of the building he spreads it across the table along with a white peace of chalk.

   "Ok, we could use Con here, that way the front doors and windows are covers. We are lucky that this is an old building with one exit. How ever its double doored on the inside so we are going to have to keep our eyes open. Dalton, can move in, Jase and I can go around from the sides taking the people out there if need be."

Looking back to Jason Nate gives a small nod to him. He'd pretty much had it planned out in his head how things should work but he'd like to have everyone else thought as well.

   "How about you Jase? Any more ideas?"

  "Well...rusty in how to do a relationship the right way in general. I...don't want to mess this one up."

Trey could feel his cheeks go slightly red he did want to do things right even though Ariel new his past in a way it still embarrassed him.  Talking about it made it hard too but he was moving forward and doing his best to over come the past.

"I think I am doing pretty good so far, and how could I not be when I have someone like you on my arm."

"Circumstances"

Rosalyn manages a quiet laugh at Chad's humor about the lobster. She hadn't thought of how his job might affect his food preferences. "I like seafood too. Actually, it's been quite a while since I've had any. Usually I only come to town for shopping during the week. Or church on Sundays. It's probably been about six months since I was in town for supper at all, and I think that was after some auction or something. I'm pretty sure the meal was hotdogs." 

Closing her eyes and just letting herself relax next to Chad, she tries to forget about her dad for now so she could enjoy the evening. Easier said than done, but if anybody could get her to have fun, she had a feeling, it would be Chad. 

"There's a decent restaurant I've been to once or twice - I can't remember what it's called, but it's basically a steakhouse and they've got some seafood too..."

...Though not remembering the restaurant name, she still knew how to get there, so once they finally arrive to town, she directs Chad the right way. By the time they get to the restaurant it was supper time, and by the time they get settled, order and receive their food, Rosalyn's stomach was ready to handle the scrumptious smelling food. She'd chosen a dinner with both shrimp and lobster, taking advantage of actually getting to eat here again. 

"Thank you, Chad..." She pauses her eating to look across at him, truly thankful that he'd still been willing to stick around after what had happened. "I don't know what things will be like tomorrow... but I'd still understand it if you didn't want to stay. I wouldn't hold it against you."

Ariel laughs, letting Trey put his arm around her shoulders. "Only rusty since you've been in Nevada, I presume." 

Sliding her feet through the sand, she enjoys the sensation of the cool breeze combing through her hair. "Well, for what it's worth, if this is our first official date, you're doing an okay job." Glancing up at him her lips curl into a grin. "If you get me  back to my place without getting slapped then you'll know you fared well."

"There's a drug deal going down, and our goal is to stop it." Reese points to the map on the whiteboard in the meeting room. "Intel suggests there's going to be a meeting here at this warehouse. Intel also suggests that there will only be three or four people involved. But if we can bring those four in we will have successfully put two drug rings out of commission - temporarily at least." 

Turning around, he looks to Nate, Dalton, Jason and Con. "Tonight at midnight is when our targets should be meeting. They will most likely be armed and quite dangerous. The police have already had two run-ins with them and the outcome was not pretty. That's why they've come to us.  For some reason, these four have been pretty slippery. But I figure you four against them puts the odds in our favor by far." 

Jason sits at the table with the others, tapping his pencil on the notepad in front of him. It was early evening and all here would be working late tonight. Dalton wasn't usually put in the field, but Pete and Gunner were busy with something else and Wyatt was off. Jason was just as glad Reese was using Dalton though so they'd have four men out there tonight. Con knew his stuff and so did Nate - and Jason trusted Dalton too. He might usually be back here behind the computers, but he was a force to be reckoned with, no doubt. This right here was why they were called the Elite. 

Jason raises his hand slightly. "So you got a game plan or you want us to figure that out?" 

Reese shrugs. "I'm going to leave tactics up to you, although I suggest looking over the printouts Dalton has of the warehouse layout." 

Con leans back in his chair, thinking. "Prolly be good if we had a sniper's view - any buildings closeby?" 

"Mm-hmm. That's why I wanted you in on this. You're the logical pick to keep an eagle's eye on things. There's a building right across the street from this place that has an adequate roof - from there you should be able to see several entrances."

"Okay, good." Con glances to the other three, making eye contact with Nate last. "You're the high ranking officer in this one. What kind of a setup do you see?"

"No... nu-uh... no..." 

Alec rolls his eyes and points to another kind of ice cream in the freezer section of the grocery store. "Come on... you gotta like caramel and chocolate. Everybody does." 

Mackenzie smirks at him. "Maybe you're the weird one. Mint is my favorite."

"Well why didn't you say so to begin with?" Alec shifts the other items around in his arms to pick up the carton of ice cream. "How's this?"

Mackenzie nods. "Okay." 

"Okay... just okay." Alec huffs a sigh and turns to head down one of the other aisles. "Come on, Blondie. Last thing we need is some potato chips to go with the grilled cheese sandwiches tonight." 

He hadn't planned on bringing Mackenzie shopping tonight, but as luck would have it, Misty had called earlier, saying she'd be stuck at work a while longer today... and it just happened to be a night that Mackenzie was joining them for the evening. Ken hadn't seemed too leery dropping off his daughter in Alec's care for a little while... which had turned into more than a little while, with another call asking Alec to get some groceries so Misty could fix supper as soon as she got home. Alec didn't mind, although he wasn't going to risk taking Mackenzie on his motorcycle... yet... so they'd ended up walking to the store. It would take them a while to get back home, but Alec figured they might get there about the same time as Misty. As far as safety went, he was more concerned about being home when Misty was, than being out and about. She was the target, not him or Mackenzie, and Jason wasn't going to be here until quite late, by the sounds of it. 

"Can we get the sour cream and onion kind?" Mackenzie skips ahead to the chip selection, pointing out her favorite kind. 

Alec grins and nods. "Yeah, okay. You're gonna get spoiled, you know that?"

Mackenzie giggles as he grabs the bag of chips. "Isn't that what uncles are for?"

Alec squints and gives her a light shove to the back of the head. "Come on. We got a long walk and we wanna beat Misty back."

Mackenzie sighs. "Do you walk everywhere?"

"Sometimes." Getting up to one of the checkout lanes, Alec stands with her to wait in line. Glancing around, he suddenly spots someone he'd not planned on seeing. His heart jumps, and for a moment, he's caught staring. 

Mackenzie notices his demeanor change, and follows his gaze to a very pretty dark-haired woman. "Who's that?" 

Alec almost jumps. "Huh? Oh, um... Just..." His eyes remained glued on Ryan, watching her head for another checkout lane. 

"Well?" Mackenzie elbows him. 

Alec looks down at her for a moment before sighing. "That would be my ex-girlfriend."

"Seriously?" Mackenzie looks back over to Ryan again. "How come you broke up?"

"Well, I... guess it was my fault." Alec sighs. "Sometimes guys like me aren't too smart." 

"You so look like you wish you hadn't  broke up."

Alec's eyebrows arc. "Hush. I'm not that obvious."

"Oh yes you are." Mackenzie rolls her eyes. "You have no guts when you need them."

"What are you-" Alec stops short as Mackenzie starts to head for Ryan. "Hey, get back here. What are you doing?" 

Mackenzie just keeps right on walking until she'd come up close to Ryan and gotten her attention. "Hi. My name's Mackenzie. I'm with him." She points back to Alec before giving a sigh of disgust. "My feet are killing me and he and I have to walk allll the way back home. But something tells me he is so not going to ask you for a ride. So I thought I'd-"

By now, Alec had caught up to her from behind, and he slips a hand over her mouth. "Ummm..." He looks at Ryan, his face gaining a bit of heat. "Hi. Sorry. This is my niece who... has a big mouth."

Mackenzie shoos away his hand. "I do not!" She smiles sweetly up at Ryan. "You do have a car, right?"

Alec eyes the ceiling and shakes his head. "Mac... your feet will last."

"They will not! I have a blister and-"

"So do I, but you don't see me complaining. Ryan lives the other direction, and it's rude to ask her to give us a ride." He looks down at Mackenzie, throwing her an annoyed glance. "Especially under the circumstances." 

"What circumstances?" She quirks an eyebrow. "You mean about you not being smart enough to keep a girlfriend?"

"Mac!!" 

"Okay, okay!" Mackenzie holds up her hands in defense. "I was just trying to get us home before Misty." 

By now, Alec was more than embarrassed, leaning more towards mortified. Eying Ryan, he cringes a little and clears his throat. "So, um... yeah..."

Unstressful

As Rosalyn leans into him Chad gives a small smile. Taking his hand from her own he places it around his shoulder and pulls her a little closer. This was one of those time she was happy to have a jeep with the seats connected so he could bring her closer and still drive safely.

   "Lets see...what kind of food do I like?"

Chad pauses for a moment keeping his eyes on the road as he continued to drive. Giving a little chuckle while he was thinking about the question. So many things ran through his mind to him it was a bit funny.

   "I pretty much like all food. I think the only reason I don't look like a blimp is because of my line of work. I would have to say something I like to eat the most is steak, and I like lobster too. I kinda feel like a trader though when I eat it. How about you? What are somethings you like to eat?"

Hearing Ariel didn't mind walking on the beach Trey lets out a little sigh of re leaf. He new she wasn't picky on where they went or the stuff they did but there had been a little worry anyways that maybe she wouldn't like the idea of being at the beach this late. Slipping off his own shoes and throwing them into the car along with Ariel's Trey was acceptance to her hand slipping into his locking his fingers with hers.

  "Wonderful night, wonderful Lady by my side, sounds like a good night to me."

Starting to walk forward and feeling the sand under his feet it tickled a little bit. He'd never noticed that before. He wondered why...was it Rosalyn had awoken something inside of him that made him relize more, or was it that he was just taking the time. Maybe it was both.

   "I think this was a good idea. You'll have to forgive me when it comes to dating...I'm a little rusty. "

Pulling Ariel in a little closer Trey puts an arm over her shoulder and brings her in closer to him. Tucking her safly under his arm he continues to walk enjoying the night. He'd never been with a woman like this before. It was different though, it was...unstressful taking it slow and he...liked it.

Moon

Chad's words and kiss were reassuring to Rosalyn, although she still harbored doubts in the back of her mind. Would her dad calm down? What if he didn't? Would Chad really stick around? Was she really worth his effort? 

Her fingers automatically lock with his and she has no choice but to follow his steps. "I dunno..." She swipes at her eyes, angry that the tears still wanted to come. "Head for town I guess, and we can decide when we get there. Just let me grab my purse from the house."

It was only a handful of minutes later that Rosalyn finds herself in the passenger seat of Chad's jeep as they aimed for town. Leaning her head against the window, she's quiet, watching the scenery go by. She hadn't told anyone she was leaving. Jade would find the half-finished dishes in the kitchen. Her mom would wonder where she'd disappeared to. News would travel fast though. It was more than likely that Mick wasn't the only person who had witnessed the loud argument. He'd probably make sure her mother knew where she'd gone though. 

Taking a deep breath and letting it out slowly, Rosalyn looks out the corner of her eye at Chad while he drove. She wasn't sure why she felt so safe with him, or why he evoked the feeling that that she just wanted to lose herself in his arms. But she was too tired to care about the whys of it all. 

Leaning over the other way, she rests her head on his shoulder, her gaze watching the road ahead. "It'll take a while to get to town," she comments quietly. "But that'll give you time to tell me what kind of food you like so we can pick somewhere to go." 

As Ariel realizes that Trey is headed for the lake, she smiles to herself. She hadn't expected him to go all the way out there, but she wasn't going to argue. It was too nice of an evening to waste, and she did like the lakeside beach. 

The ride was quiet for the most part but Ariel didn't mind. It was peaceful - not awkward. 

Finally getting to the lake and having Trey come around to open the door, she grins up at him before stepping out. "I've always liked walking in the sand." Slipping off her sandals, she tosses them back in the car, letting her bare feet sink into the cool sand. Wriggling her toes, her grin remains. "I think God invented sand for bare feet," she muses.

Taking the initiative to slip her hand into Trey's, she walks beside him closer to the water. "Mmm.... this is a gorgeous night." Her eyes rise to see the moon. It really had been a perfect evening. She was glad she'd accepted Trey's invitation.

Kinda Fun

As Rosalyn turns and makes her comment Chad places both his hands on her shoulders. His voice was stern but loving still as he talked to her. He didn't like seeing her like this at all. It made his own heart break for her.

   "I am only going to tell you this once...I am not going anywhere so you can stop saying that."

Leaning down and placing a kiss on Rosalyn's lips Chad with draws and gives her a smile before sliding his hand down her arm once again locking his had with her and starting forward twords his jeep.

   "We are in this together and now together we are going to have a nice date. Any suggestions on where to go?"

Making there way back to Ariel's apartment the night had come to an end all to quickly and Trey really didn't wan tot say goodnight to her yet. Hearing her suggestion about taking a walk Trey glances out of the courner of his eye and gives a smile. Why hadn't he thought of that one.

   "A walk does sound nice."

Coming to the next road Trey takes a left instead of continuing straight. He new the perfect place to go for a walk on a warm evening. They had been there before many times before but it was still one of the best place and Alec liked it.

Finally getting to the beach Alec doesn't stop where the drive way was but pulls the car across the grass and down by the same. Cutting the engine He sits there for a second before getting out and going around to Ariel's side.

   "I hope you don't mind walking in the sand. It will be fun."

Don't have to

Mick nods to Chad, locking eyes with him for just a moment. "You're welcome. Take care of her." Giving Rosalyn's shoulder a pat, he turns to go back to the barn and either get some work done or try to cool off his brother. 

Left alone with Chad, Rosalyn can feel the tears trickling down her cheeks. Her hands slide down to Chad's, glad he couldn't see her face. Leaning back against him, she swallows hard, not even knowing what to say. 

"I'm so sorry," she whimpers. Sniffing, she wipes her eyes on her sleeve. Finally turning around, she focuses on Chad's shirt, rather than looking up to his face. "You don't have to take me out... If you want to leave, I won't stop you. You shouldn't have to put up with this."

Ariel giggles and takes another bite of dessert. "Don't worry... I won't let you eat the rest yourself." 

It wasn't too long before the dessert was gone and table talk had all but run out. Back in the car again and headed home, Ariel felt more relaxed with Trey than she had in a long time. Maybe it was just the nice evening. Maybe it was him being so sweet. Maybe it was the simple fact of taking a step forward tonight and no longer hanging in limbo. Or maybe it was just a variety of things combined. No matter the reason, if he really wanted to date her, he'd have to do things right. 

"I still like evening walks," she hints, throwing him a sidelong glance as he drove. 

Respect

Giving his own little chuckle Trey raises his glass and clinks it against her's. His eyes giving a new twinkle. Maybe things would be ok, and would work out. This was a new start so now...anything was possible and he was able to write the pages.

   "To new starts, new relationships, and the many new chapters we get to write."

Finishing with there food the laughter seemed to come a little easier and making jokes and just enjoying themselves was nice. Trey was happy that now everything was out in the open, and he could just be himself with her. To him that was important.

   "Weakness huh? Good to know, good to know."

As Ariel pushes the plat closer to himself and takes a fork full of the dessert. Savoring the taste for a long moment. Finally looking back at Ariel he gives a nod before taking another bit and eating that one as well, before moving the plate back into the middle for both of them.

   "Wow, that is amazing. Better take what you can, while you can before I eat it all."

Letting out a long breath and heading out of the bunk with Rosalyn Chad couldn't help but be a little nervous himself about her dad. He new an angry father was never any fun and he hoped maybe if he could just talk to him, see he really cared for Rosalyn he would be ok.

Keeping his hand locked with Rosalyn's as Jim comes over Chad can't help the cringe inside he felt when met with that glare. Maybe this wouldn't be so easy after all. About to greet Jim Chad stops short met with his angry words. Just staying quirt for a moment Chad listens but when words of hate were being slung in his direction and the direction of someone he cared about it was hard to stay quiet.

   "Rosalyn is not making a fool of herself, or doing anything else wrong for that matter, having feelings for someone is not wrong as long as you act in the right manor and we have been"

Falling silent again Chad just lets the yelling match continue. There was so much more he wanted to say, and seeing Rosalyn so upset made it even worse. Hearing Mick's voice Chad was happy he stepped in. At this moment he had a straighter head than himself and the last thing he wanted to do was say something he regreted.

Wrapping his arm around Rosalyn's wast Chad pulls her a little bit closer to himself as Jim starts to walk away. Looking to Mick he gives a small nod of thanks. At least for now there would be no more yelling and everyone could calm down a little bit.

   "Yeah, I think dinner in town would be nice...maybe see a movie as well. Thank you Mick."

Chad had no problem complying to Mick's request. He had respect for him, because Mick himself had respect for Chad. On top of that as well he wanted to make this easy on Rosalyn though he new no matter what now it was going to be hard. But they were in this together form here on out and he wasn't going to back away.

Tempers

"Okay good." Ariel grins again before turning her attention back to her food. "That way, if I help you find a place, I'll know where to go when you invite me over."

Laughing, she lifts up her water glass. "To your new start. May this be the beginning of a bright future." Her foot nudges his back, her eyes retaining their twinkle. 

The rest of the meal, Ariel found enjoyable and relaxing. Knowing now that Trey's intentions were and knowing that they were going to date more, that question no longer hung in the air. And without it, small talk and laughter came more easily. It helped, too, knowing that Trey had decided to stay. Would things work out between them? Who knew? But at least there was a little bit of direction now, and that was good enough for Ariel. 

"Ohhhhh man..." Ariel savors the bite of dessert and sighs with content. "Now this... is a slice of heaven." She takes another bite, but also pushes the plate closer to Trey so he could share. "Just so you know... chocolate is one of my weaknesses. I shouldn't tell you that, but I figure you have a right to know." 


Accepting Chad's hug, Rosalyn buries her face in his chest, trying not to cry. Surely it wasn't that bad. Surely she was overreacting. Surely her dad wouldn't make a big deal out of it... right? 

Following the prompt of Chad's finger, she lifts her face to find his eyes again. Considering his words, she eventually nods. "Maybe he's not as mad as Clint thinks. Unfortunately, Dad's got just as much of the Henson temper as his siblings." She sighs, quirking an eyebrow. "For now, I won't tell you whether or not I inherited it." 

Pulling away, she wanders to the window where she moves aside the curtain to look out. Jim was headed to the dining hall, and by the pace of his long strides, he wasn't happy. She glances back over her shoulder, worry in her eyes for this man she hardly knew but for whom she had already formed deep feelings.

Squaring her shoulders, she walks back to Chad and takes his hand to bring him back to the door. "Come on... I don't want to postpone the inevitable."


On his way to the dining hall, movement catches Jim's eye and he glances toward the bunkhouses. Realizing it was Rosalyn and the man he recognized as Chad, he skids to a stop and spins on his heel to head in their direction. Meeting them halfway, his eyes glare first at Rosalyn, then Chad, then back to Rosalyn. Seeing them hand-in-hand didn't do anything to subdue his anger. "What in blazes do you think you're doing?!" 

Rosalyn cringes, stopping beside Chad. "I'm enjoying the company of someone who came to see me," she replies calmly. "What does it look like?"

Jim's eyes narrow. "Don't play that game with me," he warns. "You don't want to know what it looks like to me." His stare shifts to Chad again. "I don't know who you think you are, but you better turn right back around and-"

"Leave him alone!" Without thinking, Rosalyn steps between them, her own eyes flashing with anger. "He's done nothing wrong, so why don't you just calm down and talk about this with a level head?" 

"I have a level head!" Jim points down the driveway. "Your secret little romance has gone on long enough. I won't stand idly by, watching my daughter make a fool of herself - or worse." 

"The only one looking like a fool right now is you." Rosalyn backs up a step until she feels Chad behind her, taking her stance with him. "I knew you'd be upset and I'm sorry. But if you'd just calm down, we could talk about this."

"There's nothing to talk about!" Jim's glare finds Chad once more. "You are not welcome here. Go pack up your stuff and get out of here before-"

"It's not your call!" Rosalyn raises her voice to rise over her father's volume. "You have no right to kick anybody off this ranch and you know it." 

Jim's blood boils as amazement for his daughter's bullheadedness shoots through his eyes. "I'm warning you, Rosalyn. Don't make this any harder than it needs to be. So help me, if you-"

"Jim!" Mick barks as he approaches quickly. "Back off." 

Jim throws his brother an angry glance. "This is none of your business. I already told you that, so keep your nose where it belongs."

Mick folds his arms, clearly taking his niece's and Chad's side. "When you want to throw somebody off my property... it is my business." His eyes warn Jim not to try anything stupid with him. "When you've calmed down, we'll talk about it. But as of right now, your daughter's friend is staying. If you have an official complaint against our guest, I suggest you bring it before Rosetta and myself... after you're done shouting." 

Seeing that there's no point in continuing this argument right now, Jim shakes his head in disgust. "I will be talking to you about it. As for you..." He turns back to Rosalyn. "You better get your work done like you're paid to do and be home at a decent time. And this discussion is far from over." Spinning around, he gives no opportunity for rebuttal, and stalks back towards the barn. 

Tears sting Rosalyn's eyes and she stands numbly watching him go. It was far worse than she'd feared. Clint had been right. Looking to Mick, her lower lip quivers, her eyes begging him for help. 

Mick sighs deeply and looks to Chad. "I apologize for my brother. He's just looking out for his daughter. If you wouldn't mind, I suggest you two have a date in town tonight to avoid any more fights until he's calmed down." 

Maybe

Feeling the tap to the foot it surprised but that didn't stop the smile that spread across his lips anyways. Even if this wasn't much affection it was a different kind that what he was use to and he was starting to like it. Moving his foot a little bit Trey returns the nudge.

   "Yeah, having someone come with me would be nice. I have a price range I have to stay in for TJY to pay it but they gave me a list of some places. So if you could come and look with me..that would be great."

Having Clint come into the room Chad gives a little smile but seeing the look on Clint's face it soon fades. Hearing about Rosalyn's father not being to happy he was here Chad could feel his stomach churn a little bit. He's really hoped everyone would respond to him well but it now seemed like at least one person wasn't going too.

Once Clint was gone Chad turns a little to Rosalyn. Listing to hear and hearing her explanation Chad could feel his heart break. She really had been conflicted between doing what she family asked, and happiness. It must have been truly hard for her and he couldn't blame her at all for how she had been feeling.

   "Oh Rosalyn!"

Taking a few short steps twords her Chad puts his arms around her and just holds her for several long moments. One hand rubbing her back and the other running his fingers through her hair. He offered her all the comfort she could.

   "Never be scared to tell me something...ok? We can face the challenges together, we don't have to do it alone as long as we have each other."

Pulling away and putting a finger under her chin Chad tilts her head up so he could look her in the eye before giving her a soft kiss on the lips and pulling away again. Maybe he if talked with Jim, and showed him that he meant no hard they could build a friendship, it was worth a try anyways.

   "Maybe I could try talking to your dad? Do you think that would help?"

Worse than I thought

Rosalyn giggles and looks up to give Chad a sly grin as they walk. "I don't remember being attacked..." 

Helping him get his stuff into the bunkhouse wasn't hard and it didn't take too long. They met a few others along the way that seemed a little curious as to why Chad was back again and why Rosalyn was sticking so closely to him, but nobody asked. 

Sitting on the edge of the bed, Rosalyn sighs and glances at the clock. She'd left some kitchen work unfinished when BJ had brought her the cryptic note. She really just wanted to sit and spend time with Chad, but she also knew she had responsibilities. Watching Chad unpack some of his things, she stands and goes to him, slipping her arms around his waist from behind and leaning her head on his back. "I gotta go finish cleaning the kitchen... Do you want to-"

Her words are stopped short as someone knocks at the door, followed by, "Rosalyn? You in there?" 

She quickly withdraws from Chad as she answers, wondering why her brother was bothering her. "Yeah. What?" 

Clint opens the door and pokes his head inside. Seeing Chad, he nods. "Hey. Long time no see." His eyes go back to his sister, with a look of concern. He hadn't known there was anything going on between her and Chad... until a few minutes ago. But at this point, he really didn't have an opinion yet. "Look, unless you want to make things worse, I suggest you hang out together somewhere other than a bedroom. Dad's furious." 

Rosalyn's face pales as her pulse quickens. "How did he find out?" 

"I dunno. He probably noticed the jeep and asked about it. I was just walking past the barn when he blew up. Mick's trying to cool him off but he's only gonna be in there as long as it takes him to unsaddle and wipe down a couple horses."

Rosalyn swallows hard as her stomach starts to churn. "Okay. Thank you, Clint." 

"Yeah..." Clint looks between the two of them again, the wheels in his mind turning as he tries to figure out just what had been going on here, but right now there just wasn't time. "See ya later." 

Once he was gone, Rosalyn can feel the hot tears pooling behind her eyes. She knew she owed Chad an explanation... now. Before he got in the middle of a fight. Turning around slowly, she looks up at him hesitantly. "I'm sorry I didn't tell you sooner." Her voice quivers. "I just couldn't. When you left last time, my dad confronted me - he'd seen us... seen us kissing, and he wasn't happy. Because I knew he didn't approve, I kept our letters a secret. Mick was the only one who knew and he always made sure I got my mail before anybody else saw it." 

Putting a hand to her forehead, she paces in a small circle, feeling sick. "When you sent the flowers, my dad found out they were from you and he was very upset that I'd ignored his previous warnings about getting involved with you. I let him believe I would let it all go." She shrugs lamely. "But I didn't want to." 

Turning back to Chad, her eyes were full of the fear she felt - fear that her father was going to say regrettable things to her and/or Chad, and fear that Chad wouldn't want anything to do with her after this. "I should have told you. If I would have known you were coming, I could have warned you not to. I guess I thought maybe my dad would just be a little upset was all but..." Clint never overreacted about anything. So if he found it that vital to warn her their dad was upset, then he must have been quite angry. "...if my brother said Dad's mad then... it's gotta be worse than I thought it would be." 

Hunter smiles and gives Katie's hand an extra squeeze. "Feels good to have my head on straight again. It's... been quite a while since it was." 

Interrupted by their waiter, Hunter withdraws his hand to sit up straight again as they receive their food. Glancing back over at Katie, he cocks his head. He'd always let her do the praying when they'd had meals together. He'd never wanted to do it, but hadn't ever been offended or stopped her. Tonight though, things were different. 

Taking her hand once again, he gives her a little nod. "I'd like to do the honors tonight... if that's okay with you." It felt a little awkward, but... it was something he wanted to do. 

"God... I just want to thank you for this evening. For getting me back to Nevada in one piece and for keeping me in Texas for as long as it took to knock some sense into me. For putting a friend like Katie in my life and friends like the people back at the ranch. Thank you for new starts... forgiveness... and really good food that we're gonna eat right now before we starve. Amen." 

Ariel laughs and shakes her head. "Don't thank me yet. You might still get that slap and I'll definitely make sure it hurts." 

Giving him a teasing smirk, she nudges his leg with her foot under the table. "So... you want any help looking for a place?" 

Attack

Looking up and catching Ariel's eyes again this time they hold his own in place. The light reflecting off them, there was just something different this time about the way she looked at him. There was a hope in her eye maybe, or at least the willingness to try and that meant to much alone to Trey.

   "Just if you slap me make sure it hurts ok?"

Giving a rather large smile Trey just can't help the feeling he had in his stomach. It was excitement and scaired at the same time but what was starting a new life here with out something or someone new to be with. He did  like Ariel too and it was worth a shot.

   "Thanks Ariel...for everything!"

Listing to everything Hunter said Katie nodded her head here and there letting him know she was listing but not saying anything and breaking his train of thought. He was opening up to her now a little bit more the last thing she wanted to do was interrupt him and have him close himself off once more. So she waited till he was done.

   "I'm really happy you were able to work everything Hunter and no reason to be sorry. I am just happy it worked out."

Taking a sip of her water Katie's eyes search Hunters. She could tell something about him had changed. Maybe there was a new closeness to God once again. Even if it was small it was still there and that meant there was more room for him to grow. It made Katie happy to know that, and happy to be able to help and be part of Hunter's life.

   "Now...we can keep growing together, and thats something I am excited about."

Giving a nod of thanks to Mick Chad was happy things were going so smoothly. He didn't really expect a hard time but he was happy it went smooth anyways at least with Rosalyn's uncle. He seemed like a really nice guy and he was eager to get to know him better.

Once Mick was gone and being pulled by the hand Chad gives a laugh and follows Rosalyn. He's pull his jeep where she directed him so he could unload some of his stuff into the bunk. He'd come right form his last job so he did have some important items that couldn't be left out in the cold.

   "That room was great, I have fond memories of that room...and the sheets. Think they will attack us again?"

Tip

Rosalyn's heart starts beating faster again when Chad says he wanted to stay at least a week. A whole week? He would be here and she could see him for a whole week? It was so much more than she ever would have hoped for. But just as excited as she felt, she also felt worry. How was it going to even work? 

Mick nods to Chad. "We've got more than enough room. Actually, we don't have any other guests at the moment, so your timing is great." He turns his sights to his niece. "You want to show him to one of the bunkhouses and help him get settled? I'll take care of the paperwork." It wouldn't be much since Chad had been here before and they still had his information on file. 

"Yeah, sure." Rosalyn finally pulls away from Chad, but lets her hand slide into his. Catching Mick's eye, she wonders if he would have any advice on how to keep her dad from throwing a fit. 

Mick reads her expression well, but he doesn't have an answer. All he could do was give her a little extra time to figure things out. "In the meantime, I'm going to go join your dad where he's exercising some horses in the back corral." 

That mean Jim would be busy and distracted for another couple hours most likely. Rosalyn nods her thanks for the tip. "Okay. See you later then." Waiting until Mick had walked away, Rosalyn aims for the barn door, pulling Chad by the hand. "Come on... I'll give you the same bunk you had before if you liked it."

Hunter nods slowly and smiles as his thumb runs along Katie's hand. "Yeah... yeah, I do feel better. I, um... guess I didn't realize how much stuff I'd been ignoring for so long. And being at the ranch where there was actually time to just sit and think..." He shrugs. "I apologize if I was ever offish. I didn't mean to be. I guess when I got to processing stuff about myself and... and my past..." 

Pausing, he sighs deeply. He'd told Mick his story, but never had shared it with Katie. "Well, I guess there was stuff I couldn't talk about yet. Mostly things about me and my dad. I never realized that being rejected and on my own at seventeen could make me as bitter as I was, or have such an affect on my other choices and actions." He bites his lip. "Like me and Kyle... my drinking... I never realized that most of that was just me trying to work through stuff I was refusing to look at. Until... I got dunked in a river and was told to let things go." 

He smiles again. "Not exactly the wake-up call I would have chosen, but I guess God knew how stubborn I was and He was gonna keep me at that ranch til I worked things out, whether I liked it or not." He chuckles softly. He'd tell Katie the story of his past sometime soon, but for now, that wasn't his point.

"I still got a lot to sort through, but... I'm a whole lot further than I was. If it weren't for you though, I probably never would have gone to the ranch. So for that... thank you."

Ariel cocks her head, a little smile emerging. Was that why it had been so hard to read Trey? Because he did like her and want to be more than friends, but didn't make any advances for fear of ruining things? Maybe her difficulty in figuring him out wasn't as much of her having poor people skills as she'd thought.

Pursing her lips in thought, she studies Trey's downcast gaze. Was he the kind of man she wanted to date? She liked him in general. He had problems, but who didn't? He'd changed since she'd met him, for sure. He was softer now, and seemed to think more about others than just himself all the time. He didn't have a relationship with God - and that was a pretty big thing to Ariel. But at the same time, even if they dated, who was to say it would become something serious? They might have fun for a while then part. And who knew... maybe Trey would come to God through all this too.

Waiting for Trey to look up at her again, her calculating eyes twinkle, her cheeks flushing slightly. She might be a confident individual, but dating wasn't exactly her area of expertise. And she had a feeling Trey had a whole lot more experience than just casually dating and kissing a girl,which gave him an upper hand. But what Ariel had was the power to say yes or no. 

Smiling at him, she shrugs. "It won't ruin our friendship if we really are friends to begin with, right? So let's try it out." She gives him a teasing grin. "And if I slap you, you'll know I didn't like something."

Space

   "I told you I could never forget you, and I meant it. You're one of a kind Rosalyn."

Brushing her cheek with his hand Chad looked deep into Rosalyn's eyes. They were endless like the find time he'd looked into them. They still held mystery and wonder as well as the did the first time he'd looked into them. There was always something there, something new to be expected and he liked it. It was one of the many things he liked about Rosalyn.

Hearing someone clear there throat and feeling Rosalyn jerk up Chad can't help but look up quickly himself. He'd forgotten they were out in public and didn't want to get Rosalyn in trouble or anything. He still remembered how she wanted to keep this relationship quiet for the time being.

Seeing Mick's hand extended to him Chad can't help the smile that spreads across his face as he keeps his one arm around Rosalyn. He was happy someone seemed to accept them before even knowing they was anything going on. If Mick accepted them than everyone else would too...right?

   "Hey Mick, Its great to see you again and be here. I really meant it when I said he ranch was amazing."

Giving Mick's hand a firm shake Chad kept his smile please that Mick had taking this well. It made him feel good and confidant that everyone else would as well. Feeling Rosalyn's arm tighten around him he can't help but wonder what that was about. Maybe she was scared he had come at a bad time and there was no room for him.

Hearing Mick's question Chad looks down at Rosalyn and gives a smile before looking back up at Mick once again. He had quite a bit of time he could take off work but how much he wanted to take at once was the mystery.

   "I was hoping to stay for a week if not a little longer. I'd like to get to know the ranch a little bit better this time around. That is if you have the space for me to stay that long."

Getting onto the back of the bike Katie wraps her arms around Hunter and was ready to take off when he was. She loved the way riding felt taking the long rout was no big deal to her at all. She enjoyed it an was happy Hunter had deiced to go that way.

Finally getting to there destination Katie thought ti was perfect timing and she was hungry. Settling down across from Hunter Katie gives him a smile before ordering. Letting her fingers lock with his she looks up at his eyes. Seeing the emotion they held and the depth there was something different about Hunter. Not bad different but something non the less.

   "So it helped you being there? Do you feel better about things now?"

Looking across the table at Ariel Trey tried to read her. There was no real expression though and Trey couldn't tell if saying something would be good or saying the other would be bad. When did this become so hard? He use to be able to tell a girl straight up when he liked her and not it seemed to have become harder with Ariel.

   "Well....I....I think it would be nice to go one more dates, and...spend more time together. I like you...but you know that because I told you once before. I just..."

Trey looks down at his food for a few more moments thinking about the words he wanted to say, about what was on his heart he'd only recently realized he had.

   "...I don't want to rune our friendship even if I want more."

How long?

Feeling Chad's hands on her face, Rosalyn stares into his eyes. And quite suddenly, it's as if all of a sudden she realizes that he really is here - right here in front of her. Blushing, her excitement is joined by shyness. It had been a little while since he'd been here, and having been so close to him for such a very short time prior, it felt almost like a dream - like she'd forgotten what his touch felt like. His words were so sweet... and he'd come... just to see her. 

Despite the sudden nervousness, as she's pulled in for a kiss, she feels as though she might melt right there. His kiss was sweet... passionate, but tender. Slipping her arms back around him, she can't resist returning the kiss. It still felt just a little awkward as she has to figure out once again how it should work, but as the world around her fades, the awkwardness does too. It didn't matter if she was nervous seeing Chad again or not - he made her feel safe, wanted and warm all over.

As he draws away, she looks up at him, biting her lip as a new smile emerges. She felt like a little girl who just wanted to curl up in his strong arms and stay there forever. "Of course I'm happy... I was afraid when I didn't hear from you again that maybe you'd forgotten about me." 

With her arms around his waist, she nuzzles her head into his chest and closes her eyes. Was this real? She hoped so. Oh, how she hoped so. 

As she hears someone clear their throat, her head snaps up and she looks to the side to see Mick standing just feet away. Her face grows even redder as she remembers they're standing in the middle of the barn - she'd forgotten about watching for other people's eyes. "Um... Mick... this, um... you remember Chad, don't you?" 

Mick can't help a smile, although there is just a little bit of concern in his eyes - not from any fear for his niece's decisions, but for the reaction of someone else in particular. He knew about Jim's opinion. He knew about the father/daughter discussion after a certain bouquet of flowers had arrived. He obviously knew about all of the secret letters as well. 

Stepping forward, he extends his hand to Chad. "Howdy. Good to see you again."

Rosalyn sticks like glue to Chad, almost afraid to let him go. Her eyes plead with her uncle for help, and she doesn't realize that her grip had suddenly tightened around Chad's waist. "He... just came to visit." She swallows hard, knowing that if Mick knew his brother would be unhappy, he had every right to turn Chad away and tell him he couldn't stay. "We have plenty of empty bunks.... right?"

Mick purses his lips and studies her face, seeing how badly she wanted Chad to stay. How could he say no to that? He didn't understand how these two could be this close after one encounter and a few letters, but who was he to say it wasn't possible? "Yeah... we do." He gives her a wink before looking back to Chad. Did he know that Rosalyn's father was not happy about her relationship with him? If he didn't, it wasn't Mick's place to tell - this man would find out soon enough. "How long you planning to stay?"


Jason grins as Misty approaches,  tossing her a wink. "How 'bout we take my truck? That way I get you the whole time instead of just part of it." 

Opening the passenger door for her, he stops her right before she can get in, to wrap his arms around her and pull her close for a passionate kiss. Drawing back, his eyes twinkle. "My mom tried to teach me dessert was for after supper... but I've always been rebellious."


"Mexican. I think I can handle that." Hunter nods and dons his own helmet before mounting up on his bike. Waiting until he feels Katie get on behind him and get settled, he fires up the engine. Aiming for the street, the bike lurches a little as he shifts gears. 

Smiling to himself, he reaches one hand back to give Katie's leg a teasing squeeze. "Hang on." 

The best Mexican restaurant really wasn't all that far from TJY, but for some reason it takes at least twice as long as it should have to reach their destination. Perhaps it was all the back streets and meandering that Hunter did, just to have Katie hanging on to him a little bit longer. 

Finally getting to the restaurant and going inside, Hunter chooses a nice quiet table off to the corner. It was a little nicer place than they usually went, and neither were dressed up, but he didn't care one bit if he got a couple funny looks from still wearing his leather and boots. 

Getting settled and ordering, Hunter leans his elbows on the table and just studies Katie in the dim light, a soft smile on his face. Quiet for a few minutes, he finally breaks the silence. "I'm glad to be back." His hand slides across the table to take hers. "I think I was supposed to stay in Texas that long though. I, um... thought through a lot of things after you left." 


Ariel cocks her head and takes a sip of her water, still trying to figure out Trey's motives. Was he saying he liked how things were, or he wanted to date, or...? Once again, she couldn't tell. He was being cryptic, whether he knew it or not. 

She takes another bite of food before giving him a teasing sort of grin. "You talking more casual hanging out like we have been or... something more than that?" Her expression didn't reveal if she preferred one over the other because in reality, she really wasn't sure if she wanted more or not. But she did want to know Trey's intentions.

As long as...

Finishing up what she had to Misty puts her folds away in her desk and puts away a few other things. Her day was done and she didn't want to worry about it much more. Spending time with Jason as well was part of the bright spot in her day. How could she not enjoy that.

Heading up and outside Misty finds Jason and gives a little wave and a smile coming up to him. She was happy they could spend the night together. She'd already told Alec already she wouldn't be home and he was ok with it.

   "Hey there hot stuff. Should we take your car or both?"

As Hunter puts his arm around her Katie can't help but lean into him. It was good to feel his arms around her again and she wasn't going to complaine. It had been to long since she had felt them and she was proud to have someone like Hunter next to her.

   "I'll keep an eye on you but how do you know we wont both get in trouble?"

Giving a laugh and going up and outside Katie gladly took the helmet from him and put it on only half way before replying. Where did she want to eat? What was she in the mood for? Thinking for a second Katie wanted something different, something she didn't normally have.

   "How about Mexican? I am kinda in the mood for that."

Thinking for a second about Ariel's question Trey study's her face for a long moment.  He wondered if she would miss him if he was going to be busy or not. Did she care and want him to still see her. He wasn't sure but he new he wasn't ready to say goodbye yet.

   "Well, I don't have a job yet...and when I do I will have more money to do things with you. So as long as you want to keep seeing me too than I'd like too."

As Rosalyn's arms go around his neck Chad can't help but pick her up a little bit and holding her tight. He was happy to see her again and seeing how excited she was, was nice and he was happy to see her this happy to see him. 

   "Mmmmmm....why else would I be here but to see you."

Putting Rosalyn down again Chad brings his hands to the side of her face tilting her head up a little bit to look into her eyes. Seeing there depth and the lift they captured him like they always did. His own heart pounded in his chest.

   "I wanted to take some time off and I figure what was a better way to spend it than with you."

Leaning into her Chad's eyes twinkle as he goes to put a kiss on her lips. Just letting how much he missed her and how happy he was to see her. Letting his hand slip behind her head he holds Rosalyn with his other arm. Just letting the kiss linger a little longer Chad finally pulls away. His eyes sparkled more now than they had his voice but a whisper.

   ""I wanted to surprise you...did it work? Are you happy I surprised you?"

Shock

Jason returns Misty's kiss lightly before smiling and drawing away. "Okay. I'm done for the day so I'm gonna go wait outside." Giving her shoulder a squeeze, he retreats to the hall. Going out tonight would be nice. He could use a distraction. There were things inside he knew he was ignoring, but he'd deal with them later. Right now, he just wanted to enjoy an evening with Misty and forget about work and anything else. It was easy to do that with her... she just somehow had a way of making the world's problems disappear. 


A smile spreads on Hunter's face and he straightens up. "Good. 'Cause I'm running on adrenaline and sugar, and I need someone to keep an eye on me... a real... close eye." Giving her a sly look, he waits until she's ready to go before slinging an arm over her shoulders and heading for the door. He didn't care what Jason thought... or anybody else. This was his girlfriend and he was proud of it. 

Getting outside to the motorcycle, he's got the spare helmet all ready to hand to her. "Okay, Princess. Your wish is my command. Where are we going?" His knee was begging him for a break after riding all day, but he didn't care. This was his first night back and he was not going to waste it by sitting at home all evening. This was his evening to spend with Katie, and that was that. 


Ariel gives Trey a little smirk as a light blush returns to her cheeks. "I'm good at sharing," she muses, "And whipped cream is always a must. So you got yourself a deal." 

Grinning, she takes another bite of her chicken and lets her eyes lock with Trey's for a moment. He seemed extra happy tonight, and it was nice. Maybe he really was finally starting to settle in. Whatever the cause, the rough edges seemed to be smoothing off, revealing more than the spoiled rich kid Pete had described in the beginning.

"So now that you're staying, you gonna get so busy that I won't see you anymore?"


Still rather leery about this whole thing and suddenly hearing someone's voice, Rosalyn whirls around. As her gaze fall on Chad, her eyes widen in shock and her heart skips a beat. Stunned, all she can do is stand there, hearing his poetry. His hand on her shoulder sent a tingle all the way down her spine, and she looks up at him, wondering if perhaps she was dreaming. He was really... here? Really? He'd come all this way... for her? 

"Chad..." As her surprise morphs into excitement, her shocked expression turns into a beaming smile. Standing on her tiptoes, she throws her arms around his neck, hugging him tightly. "Oh my goodness.... what on earth are you doing here??" 

Drawing back, her hands remain on his shoulders, her eyes sparkling as her heart raced. "Why didn't you tell me you were coming?!" 

Whip Cream

Feeling Jason's arms wrap around her Misty can't help the smile that spread across her lips. Even with her eyes closed she could tell it was Jason who was around her. His smell, the feel of his arms around her. It was just something she could feel and tell.

   "Mmmm...there are left overs in there he can eat. I think us going out for some dinner sounds good."

Looking down at her paperwork and than across her desk at Rick she takes note he is looking away. Leaning back and tilting her head up to Jason Misty grins before giving him a kiss on the lips and than pulling away again.

   "I'm almost done here for the day than we can head out...ok?"

Looking up at Hunter's voice Katie gives her head a little shake and a laugh. She'd finished up the stuff for Gunner and now was working on the last little bit of stuff she had to do. Finally finishing it up Katie shuts her computer off and puts some files away in her desk before standing and coming a little closer to Hunter.

   "Now...you can kidnap me...and I'll like it."

Catching Ariel's eye as it follows the cake Trey can't help but give a little laugh. The dessert did look rather good though and how could you not follow up a good meal with out dessert.

   "Mmmmm...Sure I can as long as we can both share it."

Trey's eyes sparkle for the perhaps the first time. Now that he had deiced to stay there seemed to be a peace about him. Maybe he was relizeing things didn't have to be how they use to be or now he could spend more time with Ariel, maybe it was even both.

   "Oh, and some whip cream."

Standing off to the side Chad waits...Rosalyn would be along shortly and he could feel his heart start to race already. As she steps in though and his eyes catch her she looked even prettier now than when he has last seen her. She was a sight for sore eyes, for a warm soul, and he could feel his heart kick it up even more than he though she might hear. How she had this affect on him Chad didn't know but he new she was special..unlike anyone else. 

Stepping out from behind the shadows Chad has to resist walking up to her and giving her a kiss. Remembering what she had told him about not being safe that last thing he wanted to do was scare the crap out of her. So instead till she new he was there he would do something different.

   "Let me be your sun, I will shine when day is done. Let me be the one, Love for you I cannot hide And a lake of tears I've cried. Was love but a dream, With a passion so extreme? Fairy tales are dreams! I need you here, you need me, This is our reality."

Setting his hand on her shoulder Chad can't help the smile that spread across his lips. He was happy he'd come back, he was happy to surprise Rosalyn and now he was just hoping she was happy to see him too.

Suprise

Giving a laugh Katie was about to say something to Hunter when Jason's voice startles her. Recovering quickly and sitting up a little straighter she takes the papers from Jason just watching him for a second. There was a strange look in his eye and Katie couldn't quite make it out, anger, sadness, she wasn't sure.

   "Alright, I'll have these done Gunner before I go. Thanks Jason."

Finally looking away from him Katie puts the papers on the table as both guys go back and forth for a second. She could feel the hairs on her neck rise a little bit. It almost sounded like both of them were battling for her but that was silly...seeing as Jason had Misty...right?

Once Jason was gone Katie let out a long sigh before turning slightly to look at Hunter. Giving a small smile and a nod she liked the idea of a motorcycle ride. To feel free...yes she did like that.

   "Ok, If you want to wait in the break room that would be great. I might be a little longer now that I have some more work but I will try and hurry. I'll take you up on that bike ride too."

Leaning back Katie gives Hunter a kiss again before getting up off his lap so he could move and she could sit down once again. She wouldn't be much longer than what she had originally said.

Looking back at Ariel Trey just studys her for a long moment as she talks. The soft glow from the restront looked so pretty making the reflections as her hair framed her face nicely. She really was very pretty and Trey new it when he'd try to look away and couldn't.

   "Thanks for the confidence Ariel it...really does mean a lot."

Moving back a little as there food comes Trey could feel his stomach growling. He new he was hungry but he had no idea he was this hungry. Everything looked good though and he had good company it was great.

   "You look really pretty tonight. I like when your hair is down it looks so soft."

...Three days later...

Pulling into the ranch drive way the jeeps wheels crackled on the stones. No one would notice the jeep...it had never been seen here before so that wouldn't give anything away. Finding a parking place Chad just sits there for a second a smile spread across his lips. He's said he was going to take some time off and what a better way to do that than come to one of the most peaceful places he'd ever been.

Spotting BJ playing in the lawn Chad looks down at his watch taking note to the time and where Rosalyn probley was right now. Getting out of the jeep and going over to him he squats down giving a smile.

   "Hey there...can you do me a favor? Can you go to the mess hall and give this note to Rosalyn?"


Typed on the paper was the words: Meet me in the Barn. Chad had deiced to type so Rosalyn wouldn't notice it was his writing. Seeing BJ run off twords the mess hall he stands and turns making his way to the barn. With any luck not many people would be there and he'd be able to surprise her.

Prank?

Trying to concentrate was futile. Jason growls in frustration before giving in and shutting off his computer. He didn't know why all of a sudden he couldn't get his brain to function. Or maybe he did. It was stupid either way. Grabbing his keys, he leaves his office, locking the door behind himself. Going to the infirmary, he nods to Rick but heads over to Misty's desk. Coming up behind her, he bends down, slinging his arms over her shoulders and leaning his head down to kiss her cheek. "You wouldn't be interested in dinner out tonight, would you? Let Alec fend for himself?" 

"Okeedoke." Hunter stands up and ruffles Katie's hair playfully before finally leaving her cubicle. Hanging out in the break room wasn't exactly the highlight of the day, and he did find himself dozing off once or twice, but a Mountain Dew from the pop machine helped.

Once an hour rolled around, he meanders back out to the main floor and to Katie's cubicle once again. This time he leans over the wall, giving her a forlorn look. "Can I kidnap you yet?"

Trey's compliment makes Ariel blush and she looks down at her plate, smiling shyly. Why she wasn't able to just brush it off, she wasn't sure, but he really was being sweet. "Thanks..." 

Taking a bite of her chicken, she nods with approval. "This is really good. Thank you, Trey... for bringing me here tonight." 

Glancing up again, she catches his eye and smiles. It was kind of nice to just enjoy his company without being concerned about keeping him out of trouble or monitoring him for Pete. Still... where was this going? 

Movement catches her eye and she looks over to a nearby table where a some kind of chocolate dessert was served to a couple who had started to share it. "Mmm..." She tosses Trey a sly grin. "You buying me dessert too?"

In the barn? Rosalyn furrows her brow as she reads the note for the third time after thanking BJ and shooing him from the just-cleaned kitchen. Some man had given BJ the note? The boy apparently didn't recognize the visitor, and that alone sent Rosalyn's mind racing. Was this a prank? Something worse? One never could be too careful around here. 

Taking off her apron, she walks into the dining room to find it empty. So much for asking someone else's advice. Well... it was just here at the ranch... the barn was safe. One scream and she'd have a whole handful of men coming to her rescue.

Sighing, she finally heads outside. Pulling back her hair as she walks, she spies a strange vehicle. Did that belong to the strange man? Coming closer, she sees the license plates. Nevada? Stopping for a moment, she thinks. No... no, it couldn't be. No, it was probably someone from TJY or something like that. Maybe this had something to do with Katie. Surely it wasn't.... 

She stops her brain before her thoughts could turn into hopes, and she resumes her route to the barn. Tucking the note in her pocket, she squints in the dim interior, glancing around. Looked like most everybody was off doing work somewhere else at the moment, and the barn was pretty quiet except for a few horses who nickered their greeting. 

A little irritated along with being confused, Rosalyn walks in a bit further. There was also the possibility that it was one of the guys around here just playing a joke out of boredom. If that were it, she'd get them back for sure. 

Setting her hands on her hips, she glances down another aisle. "Hello?" 

Mystery

As Katie shifts on his lap, Hunter sets his chin down on her shoulder to stare at what she was doing. "You sure you can't just skip out early?" He turns his head to give her neck several teasing kisses before he chuckles softly. "You might not get any work done at all with me here anyway."

Having gone unnoticed while standing by the hallway, Jason's fingers fiddle with the papers in his hand while his eyes remain on Katie's cubicle. There was a strange kind of emotion bubbling deep down, but he had yet to label it. And perhaps...he didn't want to either.

Moving forward again after having paused upon Hunter's joyous arrival,  Jason aims for Katie's cubicle. Rapping his knuckles on the wall, he reaches over to hand Katie the papers. "Data entry. Gunner needs an organized report before you leave for the day. Sorry."

As his gaze wanders slightly, his eyes lock with Hunter's. "Boss is pretty cranky today. If I were you, I'd go have a seat in the break room 'til Katie's ready to go - it's down the hall. Unless you wanna risk getting her in trouble."

Hunter keeps his arms around Katie, not intimidated by Jason's curt tone. Instead of recoiling, he smiles. "Thanks. If I can get her to move, I might just do that. At the moment though, it seems she's glued to me pretty good."

Jason tries not to let his irritation show and he simply shrugs. "Suit yourself." His eye drift back to Katie for just a moment before he turns and heads back to his own office.

Only after they're alone again does Hunter's smile fade, but still behind Katie, his expression goes unseen. His grip tightens just a little as he gives her a squeeze. "He's probably right. I should let you work. I can hang out here or just meet you later if you want. Although if you let me wait, you can get a motorcycle ride..."


Jaz wasn't too sure about all that Jamie was saying, but she didn't particularly like the odd little churn deep down in her heart. It was the same feeling she'd gotten when Carson had talked to her about God too. 

Not really wanting to continue the subject right now, she sits back and nods at the opportunity to move on. "Yeah, I feel okay here. I wish I didn't have to keep looking over my shoulder, but I'd rather be here than back at the apartment." 


Being picked up and taken to the restaurant, Ariel was pleased with Trey's choice. She was glad she'd chosen to wear her peasant skirt and blouse - nothing fancy but nice enough to be comfortable in this atmosphere. Her hair fell over her shoulders as the dim light caressed her face in a slight glow. 

Hearing that Trey had decided to stay, a smile spreads on her lips. "I'm glad you decided to stay." She knew that it would probably be better for him that he stayed - away from all the bad dealings that had gone on in Mexico. It was a wise choice to remain here and start another life away from all that. 

Cocking her head, she is unafraid to study his eyes for several quiet moments. What was behind his gaze? What was going on in that head of his? What was he thinking about behind that cryptic look? 

Quirking a little grin, she finally drops he gaze to take a sip of her water. "You'll be able to find a place, no problem. This city has its faults, but it's got a lot of opportunities too. And... seems like you got a few people looking out for you. You'll be on your feet in no time. Of that, I have no doubt."

Did this mean that he would continue pursuing a friendship with her? Did he want more than that, now that he knew he'd be staying? Whether or not he did was a mystery behind those eyes.


Hearing someone come into the dining room, Rosalyn wipes her hands on a dish towel and abandons the dishes for now to poke her head through the doorway.

"Junk... junk... bill... junk." Becky smirks at Mick as she pauses cleaning tables to look through the mail he'd just handed her. "Thanks a lot."

Mick laughs and shrugs. "Sorry." He flips through the rest of the handful of envelopes. "Looks like you might have gotten the best deal of the day."

"Ew. Well, don't forget to duck."

Mick grins and heads back for the door. "Uh-huh."

Rosalyn sighs and slips back into the kitchen. It really hadn't been all that long since she'd gotten a letter from Chad. But it was longer than usual between correspondence, and, if she were to be honest with herself, it felt like forever.

Returning to the sink, she runs her hands through the dishwater's bubbles, watching them pop in her palm. Was the future to pop just like that? Was the hope she'd actually dared to hope going to burst like these tiny bubbles? There were millions of reasons she might not have heard from Chad again. Maybe his letter got lost in the mail. But none of his others had. Maybe he was just extremely busy with work, and traveling a lot. But... he'd always found time to write in spite of that before.

Sighing again, Rosalyn resumes washing the waiting dishes. She was being silly. First, to be so worried he'd forgotten about her, and second.... well... to be so worried.