Leaving Again...

Just feeling Gunner's around her again Bree melted. She's missed his touch and she missed the safety she always felt in his arms. For a moment she wondered if she had ever told him that before. She's definitely have to sometimes.

Hearing the Gunner wasn't kidnapped or hurt Bree let out a thankful sigh but at the same time it made her slightly more irritated. She'd never want anything bad to happen to Gunner, but if he had been than she wouldn't have a reason to be mad at him right now. It was such a mix of emotion that only a few tears came out in the place of anything else.

   "Nothing in life is easy. There is much term oil, hate, and no one is sure of anything. Every time it gets hard...will...will you run away?"

Bree looks up into Gunner's eyes. It was an honest question that she wanted to know. She couldn't handle someone always running away. When things got to hard turning there back and disappearing. She wanted what she always thought Gunner would offer her. The man that would stand with her no matter what, though the good, the hard, the doubt, and the fear. Maybe it was selfish to want that, but in her own mind, having a partnership, a life that was forever was something like this. It was a simple question, but a hard question all in the same.

Ashlee gives a small smile at Eric's comment. She always liked helping him with the stalls, and so many other things around the barn.  It could be the work she liked, the horses she likes, or just spending some quality time with Eric she liked even more.

   "I like doing that kind of stuff...but it's just not the same with out you around."

Poking at her lasagna Ashlee finally takes a bite. Thinking about Eric's question about riding tonight. She missed it, and she'd love to do it and yet there was this feeling that held her back from jumping at it.

   "I'm kind of tired tonight. It's been a long day. Maybe tomorrow or something we can...if your not leaving again."

Stacy throws her own confused look to Eric. It was strange Ashlee didn't jump at going riding. She herself wondered what was wrong, and if she should be worried.

Pulling up to the house Grace gives a small smile. It was nice to see Jared sitting outside, thought he really wasn't meant to be doing to much on his own yet, it was good to see he had the will to try. Getting out of her car and slipping the keys into her pocket Grace walks up the steps and leans against the railing on the porch.

   "So I could ask if you had help getting out here but I think I already know the answer. I do admit though it's nice to be greeted out here by you."

Moving closer Grace lifts Jared's leg gently before sitting down and than resting the leg in her lap once again. Giving him a glance, and a small smile she gives her head a little shake. She might not always understand Jared, but that was the best part of knowing him.

   "I'm wondering if we should do your exercises today or goof off since it looks like you started without me already."

Too Adventurous

Being embraced by Bree, Gunner’s arms wrapped tightly around her, just holding her close. “I’m okay,” he assured quietly. “I’m okay.” He moved to the chair and sat down, pulling her down in his lap where he ran his fingers through her hair and kissed the top of her head. “I’m so sorry I worried you.”

He withdrew just far enough to rest his forehead against hers as his hand gently stroked her cheek. “I didn’t get kidnapped or hurt or anything like that.” His head hurt. His body hurt. His heart hurt. But it was by no one else’s doing. “I just…I was gone… from myself… from everybody.”

It took a moment for him to go on. Though things seemed a little clearer now, and though Father James had helped him think through some of his issues, he knew it was still going to be a long road. He could feel within his battered heart that he couldn’t just fix and forget all he’d been through.

“I…was wrong. To just take off.” His eyes fell from hers as he fought his raging emotions. “I lost track of myself… I lost all track of time. I…I don’t even know if anybody tried to call me or anything. But I know I worried you, and I’m sorry.”

Now that he was here trying to explain all this to her, his guilt increased. It all sounded so self-centered, no matter how far out of his mind he’d been. How desperate. How broken. He swallowed hard before settling back in the chair so he could see Bree’s face highlighted by the sun that had almost disappeared below the horizon. He loved her so much…yet his heart was overshadowed by so much pain.

“After talking to Hope and your uncle…” He was sure by now Bree knew all that had happened at the office. “…I just… I couldn’t handle it. So…I ran to the first place that gave me peace after the accident. And…” He shrugged. “I don’t remember everything. It’s all kind of a fog. I didn’t mean to disappear. It just…happened.”

He bit his lip and dared a new glance at her eyes. His own were so weary…so full of desperation to fight the darkness that was trying to hard to overtake him. “A friend helped me think straight again, and…I came back here. To you. ‘Cause you’re the most important thing in my life. Not the past.”


Ashlee hadn’t been riding? Eric was surprised to hear that one. And who on earth would be grumpy? Save Jim, but he wasn’t around much anyway. Eric squinted at the young girl, noting her lack of happy smile, and the fact that Stacy had to prompt her to say anything else. He’d thought she wasn’t upset with him since she’d come to eat, but now he wasn’t so sure, and her last comment threw him for an even bigger loop.

He blinked and shook his head. “Fun stuff? With me around?” he teased. “Since when did mucking out stalls and sorting tangled tack become so entertaining?” He took a small bite of lasagna, but also threw Stacy a confused glance. Was he the only one that sensed Ashlee’s strange behavior? Maybe the girl had just had a bad day or wasn’t feeling well. For all he knew, at her age she could be hormonal, and he wasn’t going to touch that topic with a ten-foot pole. Something seemed more off than that, though, he just couldn’t put his finger on it. Maybe she just needed something to cheer her up.

“Tell you what…” He lowered his voice and glanced around as if making sure no one was listening before leaning in closer to Ashlee. “I’m in the mood for a midnight ride tonight, if your mom will let you. It’s a perfect night to see the stars. That is…if you want to.”

In reality, he was exhausted from being on the road, his body ached, and he knew he needed to get some good sleep. But if Ashlee agreed to go riding with him, then at least he could eliminate guessing if she were upset with him.


“Wait, wait, shouldn’t you –”

“I’m fine. It’ll –”

“But you should wait.”

“Just give me a couple minutes.”

“You shouldn’t be –”

“Oh, quit worrying.”

Lydia sighed and threw her hands up in the air before she turned to head back to the kitchen. “You are as stubborn as your father.”

Jared smirked and shook his head. Yeah…he probably was. And his mother was right – he probably shouldn’t be trying this on his own. But he was going stir crazy, stuck between his wheelchair and bed all day every day. Even though he saw Grace a couple times a week and got out of the house, he was still confined. She’d come over for supper a few times again too, but, like always, he was still stuck in the house. Getting out and about was just too much hassle yet – other than that one time he went to that church picnic…which…had been interesting. At least his arm was out of a sling now. He’d been back in the hospital for a few days the week before after getting sick again and dealing with some more lingering effects from the accident. One of these days, he hoped he’d never have to see another surgeon again.

Still standing in his bedroom doorway, dressed in an old t-shirt and jeans, he looked down at his legs and the two new crutches strapped to his forearms. His fingers gripped the handles a little more tightly. He’d stood on his own plenty of times lately – he could get himself around a bit…right? He hadn’t tried this yet with Grace…and he really wasn’t supposed to be moving around so much after last week’s surgery…but he was bored out of his mind.

Ever so slowly, he inched his feet forward, one at a time, leaning heavily on his crutches for support. Making it down the hallway, he stumbled a few times, but managed to catch himself against the wall and keep on going until he’d reached the front door. Though still in his bare feet, he continued his route out onto the front porch. He’d made it. All by himself. And the fresh air felt oh so good.

It took a little doing, but he managed to ease himself down into the porch swing before setting the crutches aside. He couldn’t remember enjoyed just being outside before all this had happened. He’d always been so busy…so intent on his next job or next trip or next scheme. He’d never taken the time to just…be. Not until recently. Until all he had was time. And Grace. She was…the warmth of sunshine itself.

A painful muscle spasm in his back made him stiffen and cringe until it passed. Well, that’s what he got for being too adventurous. The doctors had warned him to be careful as he increased his activity.

He slipped his cell phone from his pocket and maneuvered with his thumb to find Grace’s last text message that said what time she was coming today. Maybe he’d just stay out here until she came.

Only a little bit

Letting the breeze just blow through her hair Bree sat, thinking, but not enough to remember what about. Maybe it was the time she'd spend with Gunner, maybe it was her time as a child with JT, or maybe it was a mixture of both. They were the only family Bree had, the only family she cared to remember, and they were everything to her. Where things got so messed up she didn't know, and why she couldn't help Gunner was a whole nothing thing.

Hearing the floor creek Bree doesn't open her eyes. It was more than likely her Uncle back from his date. She'd lost track of time so maybe it was later than she thought. But her eyes stayed closed, she was tired of facing the world, and worrying.

At the house of Gunner's voice though Bree gives a jump and opens her eyes a small smile spreads across her lips, though her eyes were still filled with worry. Standing quickly and throwing her arms around his neck Bree burys her face into him. He smell the same, the same like she had remember.

   "Gunner....we were so worried. Are you ok? What happened? Were you kidnapped?  Hurt..."

Bree gasps for air as she hugs Gunner a little tighter. She didn't want to let go for fear he'd be gone. To just have her arms around him again it felt so nice and she'd missed him so much.

 Finishing her own drink Katie looks down at her cup before up again. Giving a soft smile and squinting her eyes a little she chuckles to herself. It had been a long time since anyone said she was a hero. It was kind of nice, and reminded her of better days.

   "Happy I could help. Even if it was only a little bit."

Placing some money on the table for her drink and a tip Katie stands putting her jacket on and putting her hair out and letting it fall where it wanted. Her hair was staring to get long again and she hadn't decided if she wanted to cut it again or not.

   "Have a good night J, and dont beat yourself up to much. Just give Misty some time, she'll come around."

Sitting down with her mom and Eric Ashlee felt a little strange for the first time. She understood what Clint was talking about, but still it was hard, that feeling in her heart, a sadness that Eric was just going to go away again. She missed him more than anyone new, he was the only farther, and father like figure in her life, and she'd grown attach to that.

   "No no riding. I don't like to when your not here. Everyone else is to grumpy."

Looking down at her food Ashlee takes a bit before looking back up again and giving a half smile to her mom, than Eric. She felt at a loss, not sure what to talk about. Nothing much was really going on, and she wasn't riding.

Stacy takes not to her daughter strange behavior as she took a sip of her coffee. She thought for sure she's be excited to see Eric come home, but something just seemed off and she wasn't sure what or why.

   "You've been helping Dylan more with his chores haven't you? That's always exciting."

Ashlee gives a small shrug.
  
   "Yeah, I guess. Nice to hang out with someone. Other than that not much really to talk about at the moment. All the fun stuff happens when your here Eric."

Return

JT mustered up a small smile for Bree. “I’d kill him first. Then you could slap him.” 

It seemed a slight amount of humor was the only way to cope at this point, even if it felt rather lame. But even though they both wanted desperately to do something – anything – the Elite was doing all they could, leaving them with simply waiting and worrying…


The lights were dim. But not in a scary way. It was more of a warm, soothing light, easy on the eyes and comforting to the soul. The air was just as welcoming, with a scent that would tell any keen mind that they were in an older atmosphere, but it was only because of aged wood, not a lack of upkeep. Mixed in was the sweet smell of candles burning, which also contributed to the glowing light.

Gunner closed his eyes again and curled in a little tighter on the cot. His head hurt too much to lift off the pillow, and the rest of his body ached just as much. Then his nostrils caught a new scent. One that awakened his stomach.

"You're fighting your body's desire to rise and nourish itself. It's a losing battle, unless you wish to fade into an eternal sleep before your time."

Gunner reopened one eye. "Who's to say it's not my time?" His voice was hoarse - a sign he'd used it little the past few days.

"Does the Lord wish his children to give up on the life he's given them? Or worse yet, cause their own death through such means?"

It took several moments but Gunner finally rolled over onto his stomach. He propped his chin up with his pillow and looked off the end of the cot to Father James, who sat at a small table with a steaming bowl of soup. "If he gave me this life, he can have it back."

Father James offered a soft smile. "Was it he who willed the events in your life, or was it the fault of people who make mistakes?"

"Like me?"

"I didn't say that." Father James gestured to the soup. "Come. Eat. You’ve been in bed for two days and it's time to get up."

Gunner didn't want to move. "I'm not hungry."

"You’re gonna lie to me now?"

"I'm not. I don't want to eat."

"Ah. Now that's different. But you need to anyway. So come on. Or I'll remove you from that cot myself."

An ever-so-slight grin seeped onto Gunner's lips. "You always did bully me around."

Father James chuckled. "Only because your hard head needed it."

Gunner sighed deeply and finally sat up. Everything hurt from head to toe, and he groaned. "You sure I didn't already die?"

"Mmm...no, I'd say you've got an awful lot of life left in you."

Despite Gunner’s desire to stay put, he knew he couldn’t. Eventually, he’d have to rise and face the day. Face life again. A few minutes later, he had joined Father James at the table in the small living quarters off the back of the aged but grand structure of beautiful woodwork and stone workmanship. Even he had to admit that the soup tasted good and was helping clear his mind.

Father James leaned forward in the table just studying his younger friend. Gunner had stumbled in a couple days prior, sick with stress and spilling his heart about all that had been happening. It had been late that night when he'd finally fallen asleep, and for two days had only slept, too worn out for anything else.

Gunner ate in silence until he’d reached the bottom of the bowl and set it aside. “Gonna kick me out today?”

“You know I won’t ever kick you out. But I must admit, I’m concerned for those who I’m sure are worried about you.”

“I know.” Gunner’s eyes fell to the table. “I just…I dunno.”

“You know exactly why you’re avoiding those you’re closest to.”

“I do?”

Father James grinned. “I don’t want to sit here all day, so I’ll spell it out for you. Those you’re closest to make you feel most vulnerable – which is normal. But in your vulnerability, you have less control, and the less control you have, the more upset you get.” 

Gunner’s eyes remained down. “So…”

“So you’ve got to learn to let go of the need for control. Whether or not you still question the past, blame yourself or not, the past is beyond your control, as are facts you face now. If you can quit trying to control everything, you’ll find that peace you’re looking for… and you’ll be able to face those you love without fighting your vulnerability.” 

Gunner was silent for several moments. “Well, alrighty then.” 

Father James chuckled. “What? No snippy comeback?” 

“I’m too tired.” Gunner set his head down on his arms. “I don’t remember ever being so exhausted.” 

“It’s the stress. You’re so strung out, your body can’t function beyond survival. Another reason you need to get this thing under control.” 

“By not controlling it,” Gunner mumbled.

“Right.” Father James’ smile returned. “I knew you’d catch on quick.”

Gunner managed a scoff. “Thanks for your confidence.”

“I do have confidence in you, Brent. I always have. Ever since you first came into this church searching for answers, just as you are now.” 

“I wish I was still searching for the same thing.” Gunner’s voice was muffled in his arms as he refused to lift his head again. “At least I wouldn’t have the knowledge that my entire wasted life was no one’s fault but my own.” 

“It wasn’t your fault.” Father James took hold of his shoulder. “Aside from your control issue, you need to let go of your unnecessary guilt. It’s a burden you were not meant to bear. So don’t. Truth or not, let it go. You have to live for your future, not the past.”

Gunner growled in frustration and finally lifted his head. “When I was released from the hospital, all I had was a stuffy, dishonest lawyer to help me. Coming here was a last ditch effort to find some sort of meaning.” 

“And did you find it?” 

“Yeah. And things made sense til I started questioning what really happened with my parents.” 

“The truth you found here has not changed. The power and grace of God do not shift from one minute to the next. The things that made sense to you back then – that helped you sort out your life – those things are still there. You’ve just started focusing on the wrong things.” 

“I’ve never left my faith…”

Father James shook his head. “Just because someone doesn’t abandon their belief in God, doesn’t mean they are walking the correct path. Any number of people can say they believe in God, and even have faith in Him. But if they don’t live a life according to His will, they might as well not believe at all.” 

He stood and took the empty bowl to a nearby sink. “I’m not saying you walked away from your Christian life or were destined for Hell. But I do think your priorities have been readjusted to the point that you need to get things back in order. Your past is very important to you. I can’t imagine waking up one day and not remembering anything. But your future is what counts. That’s where the life God has given you is. That’s where your fiancé is. That’s where everyone who loves you is. And that’s where your purpose is, should you choose to fulfill it.”

Gunner folded his arms and rested his chin on them, lost in thought as Father James talked. It wasn’t a whole lot different than some of the things Hope had told him. He’d just been unwilling to listen. Or maybe he was just so tired today that he didn’t have the strength to argue anymore…

…It was early evening, and the fog over Gunner’s mind had finally lifted – at least enough that he was able to function again outside the care of Father James for now, and enough to drive. They’d talked all day, and though his spirit was still heavy, at least he had some goals, one of which was being brave enough to return to life again.

He dared a glance at his cell phone as he drove – the first look in days – only to find it completely dead, the battery having long since run out. He imagined there were many messages he’d missed. He knew Bree too well to think she’d just ignored his absence, especially since it had been several days. And while he didn’t think he was important enough to be missed by too many people, he knew in his heart that he’d worried Bree, and he was sorry. He was sorry about a lot of things.  

It didn’t take long to reach his destination. His temporary home. Parking out on the curb, he took a moment to just look at the house. And he knew he’d be staying here longer than he liked. But he knew he needed the help. The support. 

Moments later, he was inside, but saw no one. It seemed JT was gone, but Bree's car was here. After a brief search, he realized she was out on the back porch. And for a few seconds, he just watched her from behind the glass door. She looked so peaceful, sitting in the evening breeze. And he felt even sorrier for abandoning her like he had.

Slipping silently outside, he approached quietly...carefully. He eased down in the chair next to hers, his tired eyes taking in the setting sun. "Forgive me?"


Jason grinned and shook his head. “I’m glad. Otherwise, I’d be in a heap more trouble than I already am.” 

He downed the rest of his coffee and stared at the empty cup. He didn’t really want to call an end to their time here…he’d…enjoyed it. As badly as he felt about everything with Misty, there was a little more peace now. A little more hope that things would be okay. 

“Well…I suppose I ought to get home to my pup before he tears my house to shreds.” He looked at Katie once more, his expression a soft one. “Thanks…for being my hero once more.” 


Eric was busy enough laughing, talking and eating that he didn’t notice Ashlee until she’d made it to their table. He glanced up quickly, a little surprised after his earlier encounter with her, but just as fast, a new smile appeared. 

“Well of course you can sit here.” He pulled out the chair next to him and threw her a wink. “It’s never too late.”

He still had no idea why Ashlee had been so cool with him earlier, but he felt better now that she’d joined them. At least she must not be mad at him like he’d feared. 

“So…” He took another bite of garlic bread. “What have you been up to since I left? Been keeping up with your riding?”

Slap Him

Standing by the window Bree just looked out it. She didn't know where Gunner was, if he was ok or not, She didn't know anything. She'd left him at least 25 if not more voice mails pleading him to call her, or just text and say he was ok. At this points she'd take anything at all just to stop the worry.

Hearing her Uncles voice Bree turns around and wraps her arms around herself. She had hoped that there had been new yet there was no surprise there wasn't. Walking away from the window and sinking down on the couch she lets out a long sigh.

   "I wish I'd just know where he was and know he was ok or something. How could he do this to us? Doesn't he know we would be worried sick?"

She hadn't slept, hardly eat anything, and didn't go to work. Gunner was her life, he meant everything to her and without him she felt lost. She could only pray he was ok, and soon he'd show himself.

   "Good thing hes not here, I'd slap him."

   "It wasn't just you J. I did lots of things wrong too."

Feeling Jason's hand on top of hers for a second it took Katie back but she didn't pull her hand away. The warm feeling was nice. It had been a long time since she'd felt that warmth and thought she could never explain it, it was different than any other touch it was Jason's touch, and though they might be romantically involved anymore but there was still warmth.

Once Jason lets go of her hand Katie gives a smile to him before finally looking down at her cup. Jason was never at good saying he was sorry so maybe this was his way. It was straight to the point with no words at all but fill with much meaning.

   "I'm almost one hundred percent sure she will forgive you, just like I have. It's in our blood and our hearts to not hold on to anything for to long."

Thinking about Clint's words Ashlee fiddles with a wrench on the table. She wasn't surprised he'd figured out what was going on. And his words told that he was indeed smart. She let what he said sink in, and it did make sense. But still it seemed easier said than done to let go of the fear. But maybe she could at least try.

   "I'm going to get going, maybe try to eat a little. Thanks Clint."

Setting the wrench down Ashlee turns and heads for the door. Stopping once there she turns and looks back at Clint for a moment. With a small smile she speaks softly.

   "Hey Clint..? You don't stay away to long either ok? Life is to short after all."

Disappearing through through the door Ashlee makes her way to the mess hall. Once getting there she peeks though the window a moment. Seeing her mom laugh makes her smile a little too. She liked seeing her mom laugh. If her mom trusted Eric with her heart, than why couldn't see. Maybe it was the still lingering question of why He had to leave again if he was so happy.

Finally stepping away from the window Ashlee enters, and walks over to the table with her mom and Eric. Her limbs in her belt look she looks between them both before questioning.

   "Can I sit here too if its not to late?"

Missing

JT's heart hurt as he watched his friend in so much pain. He couldn't imagine the nightmare Gunner must be going through, and only wanted to help. But he didn't know how.

Grateful for Hope's intervention, he stood back and remained quiet. It felt like waiting for a volcano to erupt...and just as unmanageable.

Gunner could feel another tear trickle down his cheek, and as much as it bothered him, he let it be. The worst part about being here – about these sessions with Hope – was that there were no secrets. Nothing to hide behind. Now allowance for silence. Here was where wounds were ripped open and his pride abolished. And it hurt. A lot.

“I’m always trapped here.” The retort came out hoarsely through thick emotions. “Just because I have a choice between losing my job entirely or not, doesn’t make it less of a trap.”

The anger returned to his vacant eyes. “If people around here actually cared, they’d leave me alone.” There was more. More emotions. More feelings running rampant. More words on the tip of his tongue. But he swallowed them. His gaze met JT’s and Hope’s once more before he spun around to leave the office, slamming the door shut behind him.

Only now did JT realize he’d been holding his breath, and he let it out slowly before rubbing his hands over his face. “Well…at the very least, we hit a nerve, which probably means we were traveling down the path of truth…finally.”

He looked over at Hope, his expression one of quiet concern. “Let’s hope he acknowledges it.”

They could hope all they wanted, but no one would know if Gunner had accepted what had been revealed. Not that day. Or that night. Or the following day or night. And by the third day, Reese made the search official. No one had seen or heard from Gunner since the session in Hope’s office. There was no trace of where he might have gone. No trace of his car. And his cell phone was going unanswered. He had simply disappeared...

…JT sighed and hung up the phone in the living room before turning to look at Bree. “Still nothing.” He’d been talking to Reese, but there was simply no news. Pete and Con had teamed up to hunt down any lead they could, and neither had been successful thus far.

“Reese is worried the Agency is involved. Con is more worried Gunner went and either hurt himself or went after some other bad guy figment of his imagination.” JT sank down into his chair, wishing he had better news for his niece. Neither one of them had worked the past two days, too worried and too busy trying to help find Gunner. “Still no trace of his car. His apartment hasn't been touched, and as far as all data shows, he hasn’t used his cell phone at all." 

He glanced at his niece with just as much concern for her as for Gunner. "They'll find him...I know they will."

Hearing his phone, Hunter quit tinkering with his motorcycle and wiped his hands on a rag before viewing Katie’s text message. It was an odd sort of feeling that hit him. Not quite jealousy. Not quite concern. Not quite…anything, really. Except it was almost like when a question is asked, even though the answer is already known. At least, the emotion could be considered similar on a different plane...or something like that.

He chewed on the inside of his lower lip while his thumbs worked out a reply.

No sweat. Yeah morning is still on. 

Later.

He thought about more. But he hit “send” before typing anything else. Jason and Katie went a long way back and had a lot of history together. Not to mention, they still worked together. It was only natural that they should join up to chat every once in a while. And yet…

Hunter looked at his phone again and started another text message. Only this time, it wasn’t to Katie. 

Jason smirked at Katie before taking another sip of his coffee. “Yeah, I’m Jason alright. It’s a wonder people have put up with me all this time. Seems all I keep doing is messing things up. Good enough to keep my head above water, but enough of a hothead to keep making that one wrong choice.”

He shook his head and let his eyes rest on hers. “I should have seen it that very first time you got me help when I needed it. When you were the only one who knew I was in trouble and either came running yourself, or made someone else do it. You’ve always been there, no matter how stupid I’ve been, or the stunts I’ve pulled.”

He swallowed hard and dropped his gaze as his emotions started to churn. He needed to stop now. But he also needed to be honest. “No matter what I put you through, or how many times I pulled away…how many times I hurt you and made you suffer because I felt chained to you through our connection. You always took me back. Always forgave.”

It wasn’t a feeling of romance that moved his hand towards hers on the table. It wasn’t a gesture born of flirtatiousness. It was only tender gratefulness that was wrapped within his touch as his fingers curled around hers to give them a gentle squeeze. It was an apology. And one that had come too late.

“You were always stronger than me,” he whispered. “Maybe it’s just taken me this long with this much loss to finally see it. I…still hurt…thinking about how things ended with us. I can’t deny feeling it was unfair. But…if I’d have been fair to you in the first place, it probably never would have happened.”

He let go of her hand and cleared his throat before returning to his coffee. “And I’ve now been unfair to Misty, too, by getting into a relationship with her in the first place. I guess…all I can do now is try to pick up the pieces and hope she forgives me. And…try not to let it affect my work or else Reese really have my head.” He managed a wry grin. “Not that that’s any different than normal.”

Clint really didn’t feel like talking, much less consoling this girl. But the tender spot in his heart – no matter how much he tried to ignore it – won out.

He stopped what he was doing to cross his arms and lean back against the workbench, forgetting about his own problems for at least a little while. “Ah…the truth comes out.”

He shook his head at Ashlee. “I grew up without a dad, too. And when I did finally find him, I discovered I’d known him all along, and he just never had the guts to tell me. And now…” He stopped himself short. “Well, we won’t get into that. My point is, I can see where you’re coming from, and I don’t blame you. If you weren’t a little scared of being let down again, I’d be worried.”

He pursed his lips and just studied her for a couple moments. “But know this…If you don’t give Eric a chance…If you decide to push him away out of fear, you’ll do that the rest of your life, and trust me, you’ll regret it. At some point, you’re going to have to have a little faith in someone, or else you’ll wind up alone and miserable.”

Maybe it was a little harsh for a girl her age, but he was only being honest. “Now, I know you trust your mom. And if she – after all she’s been through – has the nerve to put her trust in Eric…then it’s probably safe.” He shrugged. “And if you’d ask me, I’d tell you he’s one of the most loyal guys you’ll ever meet, and as far as I can tell, he cares about you and your mom a lot.”

He moved to resume putting some random tools away. “People come and go from our lives all the time – there’s nothing we can do to control it. But if you don’t learn to let yourself care about someone in the few moments we have them, you won’t care at all. And I’d hate to see the kind of person you’d end up being if you went that route.”

Alone

Hope didn't mind letting JT take the lead on this. Maybe if Gunner heard it from someone like family he would take it a little easier. She had no doubt he'd be upset, and thats why she was there but maybe just maybe with a little luck it might so smoother than she played it in her own head.

Watching Gunner as JT talked Hope could see the stress written on his face and the pain in his eyes. She new that this had to be a shock and maybe even a little hard to handle. Seeing Gunner get more and more upset, and his words match Hope felt bad. She really honestly did. Something like this was never easy no matter how she wished it was.

   "Not proud of ourselves, but just trying to help you weather you want to believe it or not Gunner. We want the same thing for you, that you want. Closure so you can move on with yourself, with everything it has to offer."

Seeing the tears that ran down Gunner's cheek made Hope's heart break even more. She couldn't even imagine the pain he was in and hurt the filled his heart. Hearing his question she was quiet for a long moment. She wanted Gunner to stay, but she wanted him to stay on his own, not be forced.

Looking to JT she gives a small nod before looking back to Gunner and laying a hand on his arm. There was so much she wanted to do but so little she really could.

   "You are never trapped here Gunner unless you want to be. You have always been free to come and go as you want. Just know before you go, we do care about you, and we are here if and when you need us."

Letting go of Gunner's arm she gives it a small pat before taking a few steps back and letting Gunner free to go. Giving a glance at JT she hoped he understood why she did what she did.

Giving a smile as Jason accepts her offer Katie nods and pulls out her phone shooting a fast message to Hunter.

 Hey, I just wanted to let you know that Jason
needed someone to talk to, and I happened to 
be around. So we are just going to grab 
something to eat. See you in the morning still?

Slipping her phone back into her pocket Katie stands and heads for the door. She had mixed feelings about this, and she hoped Hunter understood. It was just lunch, between two friends right?

Getting to the bagel shop Katie orders some tea, and a light salad. She didn't want anything to heavy to eat, but she did want something. Listing to Jason Katie takes a sip of tea. A small laugh surfaced at the mention of everyone Jason had tried to make it work with only to see it slip away and at the same time, she felt bad too.

   "Nah, I dont think there is wrong with you. Maybe not the best choices were made, but I dont think there is anything wrong with you. Takes two, to make and break a relationship."

Looking down again Katie is silent for a moment thinking about the turn there own relationship had taken. She new most of it was her fault. She'd been quick to jump, didn't try and talk things out, it had been one big ball of mess. 

   "I guess we need to make mistakes to learn. Some times sad ending come out of it, but I guess its just part of life really. I'm sure once Misty calms down too, and what not she'll understand. After all who could stand not talking to you? Your Jason!"

Feeling Alec's arm around her Misty just sinks into him. She might not have showed it but she just needed to feel safe, and cared for at the moment. Everything had gone wrong in so little amount of time. Carson, Jason...she wasn't sure what else she could take.

   "Can you just hold me till I fall asleep? I just....dont want to be alone."

Hearing Eric had something for her Ashlee can't help but feel a little excitement. But at the same time she still had her mix emotions. She was really happy to see Eric, but still he was going to leave again and she'd miss him once more. It hurt, and if he left maybe he didn't care that much. It confused Ashlee and she didn't like it.

   "Ok, see ya in a bit."

Tossing the pop can in the trash and moving to the work bench Ashlee picked at some of the loose wood. Picking up one of the wrenches she places into the tool box.

   "If I hang out with him, I'll stop being mad at him, and if I stop being mad at him than I'll just miss him when he leaves again and why should I miss him if he doesn't care about us and leaves."

Taking in a deep breath and than lets it out again. She didn't mean to unload everything on Clint, he was just there and she was frustrated. She hated feeling like this, and she didnt even know who to talk to about it.

   "Sorry, I kind of just blurted out."

Cage

JT wasn’t really sure about sitting in on the next session with Gunner but…maybe Hope was right. Maybe Gunner would react differently if he were here and could help walk him through the evidence.

“Yeah…sure…okay. I have to work part of the night tonight but I have off tomorrow so that should be alright…”


…Gunner  was in no hurry to get to Hope’s office to keep his appointment, but he knew if he missed it, he’d just have people jumping down his throat for it. Yesterday had been a complete bust. He’d slept for most of it, and had gotten nowhere. He wasn’t even a hundred percent sure what he’d done in the evening, but he had a vague memory of watching a movie with Bree.

Avoiding anyone else at TJY, he finally got himself to Hope’s office ten minutes late. Upon entering though, he stopped short. What on earth was JT doing here?

“Hey, Gunner.” JT sat in an extra chair, and offered a smile.

“Um…hey.” Gunner set his sunglasses up on top of his head and gave Hope a wary look. “What’s…going on?”

JT took the lead, having already gone over things with Hope. “Just had a bit of information Hope thought I should share with you so I thought I’d sit in on things today.”

“Oh…kay…” Gunner eased down in his normal chair, but sat on the edge, not sure if he liked this or not. No…no, he was pretty sure he didn’t like it at all. But he’d stay, if only to make them happy. “So shoot. What’s so important you gotta watch my brain picked apart?”

JT smirked, but shook his head instead of retorting. “Well, I knew you’d been investigating the past so…I did a bit of nosing around on my own…” He proceeded to explain everything he’d already shared with Hope. About the people, circumstances, and what he’d learned about Gunner’s family. It made sense. The pieces fit. But as he finished, there was only awkward silence that filled the office.

Gunner was visibly rigid, his jaw hard at work grinding his teeth. He had said nothing throughout JT’s explanation, and even now was eerily quiet. He finally looked at Hope, giving her eyes a good long search before glancing back to JT. A forced smile creased his lips, though his knee had already started to bounce, proving his nerves were close to giving out. “So… let me guess… This is the part where one of you tries to tell me that all this time, I’ve been coming up with grand theories about how my parents died, because really, deep down I have a terrible guilt for driving my father away and maybe even a guilt for causing the accident itself. That all I’ve done is built a huge imaginative story just to cover up my own blame.”

JT blinked and glanced at Hope, unsure how to proceed. Gunner was partly right. And to any eye – even the untrained – it was very obvious that a cord had been struck. Something had hit Gunner, and had hit him hard. “Well… it’s –”

“And you two apparently are quite proud of yourselves for coming up with this little theory.” Gunner stood, not caring what else JT had to say. His smile was gone as he looked to Hope again. “I don’t know what it is that you think you’re trying to solve, or how you think you’re delving into my psyche by this whole charade, but let me tell you –”

“Take it easy,” JT interrupted, now standing as well. “We’re just trying to help.”

“Help? With this load of crap?” Gunner’s eyes blazed. “Don’t you think I went down that path myself? Don’t you think I checked out all those same people? Don’t you think I covered all those leads?”

“Did you?”

Silence.

JT cocked his head. “Well? Did you really?”

As suddenly as Gunner’s anger had erupted, it vanished almost-dangerously fast. Tears sprang into his eyes and he turned for the door, only to have it quickly blocked by JT. “Let me go,” he hissed.

“Stay,” JT pleaded. “Talk it out. Please. You need this.”

Gunner felt sick. His head hurt, his stomach churned, and he felt suffocated. His hands clenched into fists as he turned back around and stared at Hope. “Alright, Doc.” His voice was hoarse as he fought against emotions. “Your call.” A silent tear ran down his cheek. “You gonna let me out of this cage or keep me here 'til I can’t breathe anymore?”


A long pause followed Katie's invitation. Jason straightened up and just looked at her, not knowing if he was more surprised that she'd invited him, or more surprised that it felt way too easy to say yes. But...should he? What about Hunter? Wouldn't he be upset with Katie going somewhere with her ex, no matter how innocent? Yet...it was Katie's risk, not Jason's. Really, it was none of Jason's business. Katie was just trying to be a friend, so if Hunter had a problem, it was between the two of them...right? 

Jason chewed on the inside of his lower lip. There was a warning within him...something that told him not to walk this line. Something that told him he shouldn't say yes. And yet there was also the part that had brought him here tonight in the first place...the part that didn't want to be alone right now and just wanted a friend. 

"Okay." He quirked a little smile. "Not sure I want food, but coffee sounds good..."

...It didn't take long before he was sitting across from Katie in the little bagel shop a few blocks from TJY. It was one of the few quieter places open later in the evening, and they had good food and coffee, too. 

Jason wrapped his hands around his coffee cup, enjoying the warmth on his palms. It was strange...sitting here with Katie. Just the two of them. It wasn't like when they were on the job or together on a stakeout. Though he'd been quiet, a sorry sort of laugh was what broke the silence. "Ya know..." He shook his head and looked up at Katie, his eyes meeting hers. "I'm beginning to think there's something wrong with me." 

He shrugged and took a sip of his coffee. "Jade...you...Camryn...you again... and again...Misty..." A sigh surfaced. "There's only one common factor: me." His eye dropped. "Guess I didn't realize how many times I'd messed things up 'til now. I still think I made the right choice with Misty, but I prolly never should've gotten involved in the first place. Just not smart enough to stay out of the fire, I guess."


Alec was shocked by Misty's words, and for a moment he wasn't even sure how to respond. Jason had called things off? Because of Carson? It sort of made sense, and sort of didn't. Either way, Alec had been under the impression that things had been going well. He couldn't help but wonder what had happened, and now there seemed to be a lot of questions. Regardless, it was Jason's business to do whatever he wanted. But that didn't mean Alec felt any less badly for Misty.

His heart hurt as he looked at how sad she was. Even if she wasn't ultra emotional right now, it would still have been a blow. He didn't like seeing Misty upset and crying. It just...didn't feel good and he had no idea what to do. 

Moving a little closer on the couch, he slipped his arm around her shoulders and gave her a gentle hug. "I'm so sorry." He wished he could make her feel better. He wished he could just solve this entire mess. But he knew he couldn't. All he could do was give her an extra squeeze and a kiss on the top of her head. "Is there anything I can do?"


Ashlee's response was not at all what Eric had expected. He hadn't thought she'd be elated, but her lack of any enthusiasm at seeing him made his heart sink just a little bit. Maybe his impression that he'd be missed had just been his own need to feel wanted and wasn't really the actual truth. At least Stacy had seemed pleased to see him.

He blinked, his smile fading as he shrugged. "Oh. Well, okay."

Clint fingered his pop can as he looked between the girl and Eric. Something seemed off, all of a sudden. Did Ashlee's strange behavior have something to do with Eric's return? That in itself was odd, since he'd assumed she adored Eric. "I won't be too much longer here," he commented. "I think it's time to give this beast a rest for the night, so all I have left is cleaning up a few loose tools."

"Alright." Eric's finger tapped the door absentmindedly as he tried to catch Ashlee's eye, but she was looking down now. "Well, I'll be in, eating. See me sometime though, Ash, 'cause I brought back something for ya." He smiled again and nodded to Clint. "See ya later."

Only after he was gone did Clint set down his pop can before starting in on organizing some of the tools on the workbench. "This isn't gonna take me long," he mentioned over his shoulder. Ashlee's choice wasn't any of his business, but he didn't want to contribute to any tension either. "You can go hang with Eric if you want. I don't mind."

Some coffee...

Seeing a grin from Jason even if it was small made Katie smile too. Continuing to listen to Jason Katie was slightly surprised by the news of Jason and Misty. When she'd seen them together even if it was only from a distance she always thought they looked happy and nothing could split them. But hearing this it only made her slightly more confused.

   "I do have to say I am a bit surprised. I mean in a way I understand where you are coming from, and I don't think what you did was wrong. We all have our own convictions, and if you think this was right than who is to tell you differently?"

Putting her pencil down and just looking at Jason for a long second Katie turned in her chair. She could see how hurt he was. While yes this was an awkward situation she couldn't fault Jason for that. He needed a friend to talk to, and she did know him pretty well. Even if it was hard, and it did hurt she wanted to be there for Jason.

   "You're not bothering me. I needed a break from going over these older cases and making sure everything was filled out on the forms right anyways. I was thinking about going to grab some coffee and a bite to eat. Want to come along?"

Hearing Alec's motorcycle pull up Misty didn't even hardly move. She new he'd be home soon, and she new He's be worried if her saw her like this but honestly, she lacked the energy to care, or even try to clean herself up. Everything was still fresh and new, maybe she was in a little shock, or a state if denial, but deep down she new it was true.

Knowing he was now in the same room as her Misty let out a long sigh before sucking in her breath again. Slowly looking up at Alec she blinks a little trying her best not to cry again. She felt alone. Even though Jason said he still wanted to be friends, it just wasn't the same.

   "Jason broke up with me. He said he didn't feel right being with me as long as I was married to Carson still."

Just saying those words stung Misty's heart even more. Tears started to fill her eyes again as she looked down at her hands that were pulling apart a tissue. She'd didn't like being seen like this but she couldn't help it. She felt to many things at once to help it.

Hearing everything JT had to say Hope leaned back in her chair. A lot of what he said made sense. It was surprising but it made sense with some of the behavior he was showing. It still was a difficult situation to deal with, and she wondered if there was a right way to handle it.

   "Well, I do think these are some good things to know definitely. It's just how to go about it all that has me stumped now. I really think Gunner should know...its the how to tell him."

Standing and pacing for a few moments Hope thinks deeply. Before stopping and looking at JT. If Gunner was like family, maybe it was best if family told him.

   "Gunner is coming here tomorrow, maybe we can tell him together. I think maybe if you told him it might be a little easier. What do you think?"

To: Rosalyn
From: Chad

:-D I look forward to it more than anyone will
ever know. Have a good dinner my sweet.
Till we can talk again *hug and kiss*

Putting his phone down after sending the text he gives a little smile. Maybe there was hope after all. Even if no one else believed it he did.

Getting up from his seat he grabs his jacket and heads out the door. Maybe if he hurried he could still catch breakfast with the others.

Taking a sip from her own can Ashlee gives a little laugh as a slight bit spills from the can onto the ground. Giving a sheepish look she pulls a tissue from her pocket and bends down to wipe it up. Catching the door open Ashlee look up seeing Eric. Standing again she stuffs the tissue into her pocket before shifting a little. She'd missed him, but she had been trying to avoid him. He was just going to leave again and the though hurt just thinking about it, without getting attached first.

   "I'm...not to hungry at the moment."

Ashlee's stomach growled in protest.  She'd hoped no one heard it though.

   "You can go ahead. I might be in later. I'm going to help Clint..if he needs it for a little bit. Thanks though."

Trying to give her best smile Ashlee took another sip of her pop before looking down.  Even if she tried to hide it she new he look gave her away, and maybe even one could tell she was disappointed in herself for saying no.

Investigation

Jason forced a small grin, though it did little to remove the shadows from his eyes. "Yeah...yeah, I'm okay." His gaze dropped though. Was he actually going to stand here and lie? That didn't seem right. But neither did it seem right to be talking to her about this. Would the awkwardness ever truly go away? They had so much history...so many shared emotions. Things could never go back to the way they were, but how could they even be...normal?

He straightened and lifted his chin, but only to rest his elbows on the wall and hide his eyes in his palms. No...he couldn't lie, and if he didn't talk to someone, it would just make him feel worse. "I broke up with Misty tonight," he mumbled. There. He'd said it. And now that he had, it just emphasized the truth to himself. Saying it aloud somehow made it seem more real, and the pain seemed to grow just a little more sharp.

It wasn't until he'd taken a deep breath did he finally raise his eyes once more. The tears would not fall...but they were there, hiding behind the wall he'd created to protect himself. "The whole thing with her and Carson..." He shrugged lamely. "I just didn't feel it was right to continue a relationship with her while she's still married. I mean..." He sighed. It felt so wrong and so right at the same time.

Jason's gaze met Katie's, and he wished he knew what she was thinking. Would she think him a jerk for leaving Misty at a time like this? She was a good friend of hers, after all. "I guess I don't know any more what I think of Carson, and if God prefers them to work it out somehow, I didn't want to be the one standing in the way. I don't want to live with that on my conscience...that they might break their vows forever because I got in the middle."

He ran his thumbnail across the top of the wall, and hit a slight notch that he suddenly remembered making on some other occasion when he'd been upset. His fingers apparently still had their same nervous habits. His eyes found the floor again. This had to be weird for Katie, and he hadn't meant it to be. "I'm sorry," he apologized quietly. "I didn't mean to put you in an awkward position. I just...didn't have anybody else to talk to. I'm sure you've got better things to do than listen to me vent about my personal life."


Alec was a little surprised he didn't see Jason's truck, as he pulled his motorcycle into the driveway. Usually Jason stayed later than this, but... it really wasn't any of Alec's business anyway. Once parked in the garage, he headed inside the house. There was little reason, but he liked letting Misty know he was home before going out to his shed for the night. And...one thing his shed lacked was a shower.

"Honey, I'm home!" He shut the door behind himself and took off his leather jacket, slinging it over his shoulder. Seeing a light on in the living room, he wandered that direction. "Man, things sure look lively around here," he teased. Not even the television was on. "I smell like sweat and pizza grease, so I'm gonna..." His voice trailed off as he neared the couch and spotted Misty. Immediately, he knew something wasn't right, and his pulse quickened. "...shower," he finished.

Coming closer, his concern grew. Was she crying? "Hey..." His voice had softened, and he came around to sit on the edge of the couch near Misty. "You okay? What happened?"


It wasn't that JT thought no one else could handle this or that Hope and Bree weren't doing all they could to help Gunner...but he just had a hunch he wanted to follow. He'd asked Gunner about his family around the time of the accident, and Gunner had always just pushed that topic aside, saying he knew all there was to know about that, and it wasn't worth pursuing. They were still after a killer, quite possibly with Agency ties, which had nothing to do with family or friends. And yet...something about it just didn't seem quite right. Several days had gone by, and Gunner was no less on edge. Not that JT thought it would be an overnight cure, but something had to be done. Something had to end Gunner's obsession before he went mad or drove away the people who cared most about him...

"Franklin?" The man furrowed his brow while wiping his hands on a towel.

It had taken quite a bit of doing for JT to find him in Knox. There were an awful lot of dead ends, which just added to the mystery. Thankfully the little pottery shop was not busy today, providing an ample opportunity to chat. "Yeah." He handed Paul a photo of Gunner.

After Paul took the picture, a look of recognition crossed his face. "Wow. Yeah...yeah, I knew him. We hung out in high school. Weren't best friends or anything but we almost always wound up at the same lunch table." He cocked his head at JT. "What's all this about?"

"Did you have any contact with Brent after high school?"

"Not really. Well, maybe a couple times, then he was in an accident that took his memory. He didn't remember me, so there wasn't much to go on. I went off to college and that was it."

"So you didn't help him or anything?"

Paul quirked an eyebrow. "If I remember correctly, he was pretty bitter and didn't want much to do with anything. I heard his folks' insurance took care of most of the bills and stuff, and a lawyer was making sure he was set. There wasn't much I could do." He paused to study JT's face. "Why?"

"Just digging. Brent's wanted to find out a few things about his past and I'm trying to help."

"Ah." Paul wandered back to his pottery wheel and sat down to start working again. "I suppose it sucks to not remember, but there was stuff I wouldn't want to remember." He chuckled. "Did he ever remember the trouble he got himself into?"

JT followed him and watched him work for a moment. "Trouble? No, he still has no memory prior to the accident."

"Well, he was quite a rebel in high school. Too smart for his own good if you ask me, but his dad wasn't too pleased."

"Oh?"

"Eh, I didn't know the guy, but Brent told me he could be pretty rough, especially when Brent would get himself in trouble. Got suspended once for lipping off to the principal one too many times - thought he might never be back, the way his dad talked. But I guess we all thought we had parents who were too hard on us when we were that age."

JT eyed the lump of clay that began going around in circles on the wheel, while Paul's hands started to shape it. "I see. Did you know anything else about Brent's parents?"

"Not really, other than their marriage was on the rocks."

"Yeah?"

"Mm-hmm." Paul kept his eyes on his work and was quiet for several moments before giving up and letting the wheel stop. He sighed and looked back up at JT. "I haven't thought about all this in years, ya know? But parts are coming back to me. I remember once at lunch, Brent was all upset about something and I razzed him about it. He spouted off at me and ended up telling me he'd found out his parents were getting a divorce." He shook his head. "Fool kid thought it was 'cause of him. Said he'd been too much trouble and his dad had finally had it, so was leaving."

JT folded his arms, his mind hard at work. "How long after that was the accident?"

"Not too long. I was surprised they were all in the same car, to tell you the truth. Figured his dad had already split, but I guess not..."

...As JT drove down the highway, his thoughts were a mess of facts and theories. A very interesting story was being built, and he wondered if there were any answers therein. He had just enough time today to make one more stop. And maybe, just maybe, it would shed more light on the dark puzzle...

"Yeah, I remember that night well." The attractive middle-aged woman offered JT a drink, to which he shook his head. She shrugged and poured herself one anyway before rejoining him in the plush living room. "Sam and Lynn were their cool selves, like usual. Oh, they hadn't always been that way - just for a couple years. Anybody could tell they were having problems." She took a sip of her drink, her rings clinking lightly on the glass. "'Course me and Harry weren't exactly best friends at that point either."

JT gave Renee a wry grin, but found little real humor in all of this. "So backtrack just as little...It was a business party that afternoon? And Brent came along with his parents?"

"Right. He hung out with my boy for a while, until Sam and Lynn got into it."

"So they fought?"

"Sure did. I don't know how it started, but Sam was throwing around the insults pretty good, and that was without having had anything to drink."

JT tried to imagine what was being described to him. "And then they left?"

"Oh, yes. Slamming door - the whole bit." Renee took another sip of her drink before setting the glass down on the elegant coffee table.

"And Brent?"

"Followed them out like a whipped puppy. Oh, he tried to act all tough, but he was mortified that his parents had caused a scene like that. The rest of us just went on, hoping the whole thing would blow over." Renee sighed as she remembered. "We were all shocked to hear of the accident, and we all wished we could have talked Sam and Lynn into staying longer - maybe they could have avoided what happened."

JT nodded slowly. "One can always wonder..."


...And wonder, he did. Although less than he had before. Driving back to North Springs, he had plenty of time to think and put pieces together. The only thing left now was to figure out what to do with them.

Gunner really had been completely on his own after getting out of the hospital. The family lawyer had assisted with paying off bills and legal advice, but otherwise, Gunner had to rely on himself. It was true that no family had shown up - a fact that still felt strange. Apparently there were a couple friends that lent a hand, but it seemed he, or his family, had no close friends that had stepped in to help. Gunner had been to visit his parents' graves, however, he'd missed the funeral as he'd been in the hospital for so long. From what JT had been able to dig up, the funeral had been very small.

Then there was the thing about Gunner being a troublemaker and upsetting his father. And his parents who had been just ready to divorce. Had Gunner really blamed himself as Paul had implied? What a horrible thing for a kid to experience. Yet Gunner remembered none of it. But did his subconscious? Even though memories did not exist, was it possible for emotional footprints to linger? Was it possible for something to remain, tucked way down deep, that toyed with his emotions - remnants of feeling guilty for his parent's behavior? And was it because of their argument that an accident had happened? A man had served time in prison for vehicular manslaughter, yet Gunner remained unsatisfied. Was it really a shrouded truth like he claimed, or was there guilt in his own heart?

Was there anything to all of this, or was it just random facts that meant nothing? JT didn't know. But he'd gone about as far as he could on his own. The only thing he could do now was pass the information along...

..."Hope?"JT knocked on her office door before entering, a few papers in hand. "I didn't want to bother you, but I had a few things that...well..." He shrugged and approached her desk to hand her the papers that had handwritten notes jotted on them. "Just some stuff I dug up. Gunner may think he's the only one who can investigate, but this can be our little secret."

He gave her a wry grin. "I don't know if this will help or anything, but I just did a little research about Gunner's family. I got the impression he'd done an awful lot of fact searching about the accident, but not his family before that point, and..." He shrugged again. "Call it a hunch, I dunno..." He went on to explain all the things he'd learned, and who he'd talked to, still not sure if it all meant anything, but hoping it would help in some way.

"So anyway...I just thought I'd stop by. Gunner's part of our family now and I just want to help."


Rosalyn sniffed and wiped her eyes, unable to help but smile a little at Chad’s text. Oh, how she wished things were simpler. Why did they have to be so hard? Why did something so beautiful have to be so complicated?

To Chad:
From Rosalyn:
It’s one of my best memories too.

Would she have more memories like that? She couldn’t help but wonder.

I gotta get back to the others before
I’m missed at supper. Will text more
again soon.

Standing, she was just turning to go back into the dining room, when a shadow caught her eye. Looking up quickly, she was startled to see her father. “Oh. Dad. Need something?”

Jim shook his head. “We just wondered where you’d disappeared to was all.” He glanced at the phone in her hand, then cocked his head, seeing a strange redness to her eyes. “You okay?”

“Of course.” She tucked her phone back in her pocket and forced a smiled. “I was just checking some texts while everybody was busy eating. Figured I wouldn’t have time once the all dishes needed to be done.”

“Ah.” Jim smiled. There still wasn’t something right about that look on her face though. It was the same look she’d gained as a child when she’d done something wrong but was keeping it a secret. Not quite guilt, but almost. And why did she look as though she’d been crying? “Who’d you hear from?”

The question was so direct, Rosalyn’s mind couldn’t think fast enough. Her mouth opened, but instead of saying anything, she just blinked for a moment. “Oh, um… well just… a friend.” She nodded. “That’s all. Nothing important.”

Jim’s smile remained, but he also didn’t move from the doorway, still blocking her path to the dining room.  “I’ll never understand the significance of texting without it being important,” he teased. “Which friend was it this time? Hannah?”

Rosalyn swallowed hard. She could feel her cheeks growing warm, and there was nothing she could do about it. “No. Just a friend.”

“I see.” Jim nodded slowly. “A guy, maybe?”

He knew. Rosalyn wished she weren’t so transparent, but her father knew her way too well. Her smile faded as her jaw tightened. “Maybe,” she responded tersely. “But I’d rather not talk about it. Now…excuse me.” She gestured to the blocked doorway. “I need to check and see if anyone needs anything else.”

Jim sighed and shook his head. “What’s it gonna take, Rosalyn?”

“For what?”

“For you to get your head on straight. For you to give up on someone who will do nothing but cause you grief in the long run. I thought you’d already gotten past that man.”

A tear ran down Rosalyn’s face as her eyes blazed with anger. “I asked you to excuse me.” Her words were spoken through gritted teeth. “Move.”

Jim held up his hands and stepped to the side. “Just…” He didn’t finish his sentence. There was no point, since Rosalyn had already brushed past him and was gone.

Instead of checking to see if anyone needed anything, as planned, Rosalyn ignored everyone, and headed straight for the door. Once outside, she aimed for the barns, but after arriving, she kept on walking. Her route continued until she’d reached the small orchard. It was after sundown, and starting to get chilly, but she didn’t care. Her jacket  had been left behind, and the evening breeze sent goosebumps up and down her arms, but she ignored it. All she wanted to do was cry.


A chuckle managed to surface, and Clint shook his head. “I’m afraid this tractor needs a mechanic’s eye, but thanks. I’m glad somebody wants to help.”

He took a long sip of Mountain Dew before sighing deeply. “Mm…I prolly drink way too much of it. This, and coffee.” He took another swig before his gaze moved to the door that was being pushed open.

“Well, I thought for sure somebody just left the light on.” Eric grinned as he poked his head inside the garage. He’d been walking to the dining hall to join Stacy when he’d seen the light and just thought he’d save energy and shut it off. He was surprised, though, to find not only Clint, but Ashlee too.

His grin widened into a smile. “Hey, Ash! Thought you’d have gone with your mom to supper. Wanna join us?” He threw her a wink. “Dinners on the road have been awful lonely.”

Back to a Time...

Getting another text message Chad chuckles. He was a flirt wasn't he? Most people would think he was like that with everyone but really he wasn't. There was just something about Rosalyn that was extra special and just made him want to go that extra mile.

To: Rosalyn
From: Chad

Ya your right. I am a flirt, and you just
bring that extra out. 

Reading about her dad Chad couldn't help his heart sink a little bit. He hated that things when like this and her dad was giving her such a hard time. Family was everything to her, and this just tore her apart and thus tore him apart too. 

I'm sorry about your dad. I wish I could
give you a big ol hug too. I hope to be
able to as well. 

A smile comes to Chads lips as he closes his eye and remembers there tree. It was the one place he could close his eyes and always recall that place and the emotions involved with it. 

I can always see that tree when I close
my eyes. And you are always right there
with it. It's one of the best memories I own.

Playing with a screwdriver she had in her hand Ashlee was quiet for a second. Weather her and Clint's reasons were different from being absent from the others she had a feeling in a way, it was the same too. She'd never talked much to Clint before but something about today, or maybe it was because he knew a little on how she felt in his own way his company was nice.

   "What are you working on that needs to be fixed? I don't know much about fixing stuff, but I know a little."

Seeing Clint hold up the can for her Ashlee gives a small smile and puts the screwdriver down before walking over to Clint and taking the can. 

   "Thanks!"

Pulling back the tab and opening the pop Ashlee takes a sip before closing her eyes and just savoring the taste for a moment. It had been a long time since she's had a pop and she didn't realize how much she missed it.

   "Mmm...I almost forgot what pop tasted like. This sugary goodness is not something I get often. Thank you."

Sitting at her desk and not knowing anyone else was there except for maybe Ty Katie gives a jump to Jason's voice. Recovering quickly Katie gives him a smile. For a second though she is lost in thought to anything he had just said. Her mind was taken back to what seemed like so long ago when her and Jason were still together and he would stand at her cubicle and look down right cute. Some things never changed. Bring herself back to the present Katie realizes Jason had been talking and maybe he'd asked her a question?

   "Life got complicated the day we grew up, maybe even before that."

Now taking a closer look at Jason she realizes he didn't look so hot. If there was ever a time she wished more that they had there connection it was now. But the old fashion way would just have to do. 

   "You're not looking so hot..are you ok?"

Once Jason had left Misty continues to just sit. Leaning back, sitting up, moving sideways she tried to get comfortable but just couldn't. Tears started to pool in her eyes, and than finally escape. She couldn't blame Jason for his desition, he was doing what he thought was right. After all Carson hadn't signed the papers yet, and who new if he would. If she'd been Jason she wouldn't want to wait around forever.

And with those thoughts Misty's sadness, and hurt turned to anger as well. Anger that Cason yet again runed another good thing in her life. An endless nightmare of pain, hurt, and who new what else. And it only made her cry harder.