Identity

Gunner continued to fiddle with the paperclip as Hope talked. It might look like he wasn't paying attention...but he was. He shrugged once at her question about him filling the space, or spending time with friends. He really didn't have a social life outside of Bree and JT. An occasional pizza with Con was about it...other than a few "friends" on social media.

Hope's last question brought about a long pause before he shook his head. "No...not this. I just..." He shrugged again and reached over to put the paperclip on her desk. "I've put her through enough, ya know? I... I don't want her worrying about anything else. I promised her my crap was over, so..."

He cleared his throat and stared at the floor for a few moments before eventually glancing back up at her. "Yeah. Not such a good idea, huh? The whole 'secrets never helped any relationship' kind of thing?" He sank a little further down in the chair. "I just... I turned my back on all of it, ya know? But actually walking away... It's like the first eighteen years of my life are haunting me. The memories are gone, but they're constantly trying to pull me back and trying to make me remember. It sometimes physically hurts."

He rubbed his forehead wearily. "I just don't know how to completely let go, and I don't know how I can not, if I'm gonna have a future. And if I can't even figure that out, having a social life is like...telling a dog to go make friends with the local cat neighborhood. I just...don't fit."

A little grin surfaced as he gave Hope a sheepish look. Here he'd planned on hardly saying anything. So much for proving he didn't need these sessions anymore.

Garret's eyes narrowed slightly at Sapphire before a new smile coaxed his lips to turn up. "There are far worse things than a woman who speaks her mind."

He concentrated on downing some more of the queer concoction before he glanced back at her. "And I hope you're right." Was there really enough of his own self left underneath it all, to truly be...himself? And yet the burning question still lingered. Who was he, really?

Another swig of the smoothie, and he shook his head. "Is it bad that I don't find this so horrible after all?"

Clint's hand was on the doorknob, ready to push it open, when Angel's words stopped him again. He looked back at her for a long moment, knowing full well he was doing a poor job of hiding how he really felt.

His eyes dropped as he swallowed hard. He knew she was there for him and he could tell her anything, and he was grateful. It was just hard. "No..." Everything else was not okay. "But its nothing anyone can fix." He shrugged and forced a half a smile. "Life just sucks sometimes, that's all. But it has nothing to do with Wendy or the kids, so don't worry." He held up his hand. "Thanks for fixing me up... I'll see you later."

Without letting the conversation continue, he left the office and aimed back towards the garage. His sister was gone, his dad was a wreck, and he was barely keeping the auto business afloat. That's what was wrong. 

Swept up in Chad's embrace, the world seemed to no longer exist. All Rosalyn cared about was this moment, in which she knew he forgave her. And maybe...maybe for the first time, she honestly believed his words that he'd always be there for her. Maybe, just maybe this wasn't some fairytale, but a reality that she could actually have.

With her tiptoes back on the ground, she closed her eyes and leaned into his hand as he moved her strand of hair. Oh how she'd missed those rough but gentle hands. His next words though, brought her eyes back wide open again to stare into his. Had he just hinted at... no... surely he hadn't...

His gentle kiss sent a warmth all the way through her, and she reached up to rest her palm against his cheek. "You mean the world to me too," she whispered. "I'm sorry I pushed you away. There was just so much..." New tears surfaced. "I just couldn't..." Her voice quivered, and instead of trying to continue, she pulled him in for another kiss. A deeper, longer kiss, letting that speak her feelings for her.

Back inside the house, Hannah tugged at Lizzie's shirt sleeve. "Come on," she whispered. "Quit spying."

"I'm not spying," Lizzie defended quietly as she stood a ways back, staring through the open door. A crooked grin curled her lips. "I'm just enjoying the show."

"Perv!" Hannah hissed.

Lizzie's jaw dropped as Rosalyn went in for her kiss. "She's the one that denied he was her boyfriend!"

"Keep it down!" Hannah finally yanked her around the corner into the living room.

Pulling away just a little, Rosalyn lowered herself from her toes, as her fingers toyed with the back of Chad's neck. "I missed you so much." She looked up at him and tear trickled down her face. "Thank you...for not giving up on me."

Normal Life

Sapphire couldn't help the small laugh as Garret took the sip of Justin's concoction. Whenever Justin was here he always made some kind of smoothy that looked and smelled bad. She was sure they were good for you but she'd never try one. 

    "Even if someone is built to be something, there is more underneath. No one can take away free will, or the ability for another person to feel emotions. It's just not possible no matter how much they try. A person can hide it, or mask it but it's still there. After all it's free will that lead you here, and emotions the deiced the past. I bet underneath everything you are a pretty amazing guy."

Shying away a little Sapphire new sometimes she talked to much. She just hoped she hadn't offended him. She liked getting along with everyone. It was just in her nature to be friends with even the out cases because she was so use to being on that end anyways.

   "No disappointment here, as long as you dont mind my loud mouth just blurting things out."

Hope gives a nod as Gunner talks. He felt empty and after chasing a dream for a long time she could see how that could be. Going from doing something none stop to not doing it at all could have that affect on anyone.

   "Have you tried filling that empty with something new? Trying to do something new, spending more time with friends? Sooner or later you are going to need to fill it."

Thinking again for a long moment Hope taps her pen on the pad of paper before looking up at Gunner again.

   "I doubt life will ever be normal for you, but I dont think Bree would mind much. Have you tried talking to her about things?"

As the door opens Chad straightens only to be met with a girl that looked to be Rosalyn's age. Going to say something he was cut off by her reaction, and than quick departure. She seemed to know who he was so that really give did give him hope Rosalyn would be happy to see him.

Waiting a few moments longer Chad felt his heart start to race as he saw Rosalyn. He'd missed her so much, and had been so worried about her. To see her now and know she was ok it was so over whelming that tears sprang into his own eyes.

As Rosalyn fell into his arms Chad wrapped his own around her picking her up in the process. Nuzzling his face into her hair and taking in the sweet smell. His grip grew just a little bit tighter as he wanted to keep her close.

   "I will always come for you.  No matter the time of day, no matter the reasons, I will always come for you till the day you look me in the eyes and tell me to stay away. I will always be here for you."

Pulling back just a little bit, and holding her with one arm still Chad brings his other hand to move a strand of hair from her face. Smiling down at her his eyes twinkled with everything he had to offer, with as much love and enthusiasm as when he first met her. Nothing had changed except for the greater amount of love he had grained.  

   "I love you Rosalyn, from the moment I met you, I loved you and it's only grown stronger. I know now is not the right time, but when it is the right time I want to spend the rest of my life with you. You are the world to me."

Leaning in closer to her Chad places a soft kiss on her lips before pulling away again and leaning his head against hers.

Angel gave a smile to her son in law. Something was different even if she didn't know what it was. She new things at home for Clint and Wendy were alright or she would of heard that. But there was something even if she couldn't put her finger on it.

   "We'd like that. I'll talk with Luke and see what is a good time for us to come over. I know he'd like to see the kids again too."

Giving a smile and studying him again and just couldn't help herself. She cared so much for her family, and he son in law was part of that. He meant the world to her and if something was wrong all she wanted to do was help.

   "Is everything else ok Clint? You know you can always talk to me about anything." 

Sorry to disappoint

Gunner shifted his weight from one foot to the other as he glanced back at Hope. He recognized her subtle warning...and he really was trying not to give in to his obsession. Some days were harder than others though.

Her questions made him sigh, and he reluctantly sank back down in the chair. He should have known he wouldn't get away with such a short session. "It's all...good...I think." He shrugged. "Me and Bree are good." Although he still hadn't committed to a wedding date. "Friends are alright." Although he rarely hung out anywhere other than work. "I guess life's about as good as I can expect, right? I mean...for a guy whose mental half the time, and the other half is spent feeling..." He shrugged again. "Empty." It had nothing to do with Bree. Or friends or work. He just constantly felt like there was something he was missing. Especially since he'd been trying so hard not to investigate his past.

His eyes darted about Hope's office, and he leaned down to pick up a stray paperclip to play with. "Otherwise..." His tone had become significantly more subdued. "I'm great."


A smile tugged at the corner of Garret's mouth as he looked back at Sapphire. He avoided her question though, and paused to take a sip of Justin's concoction. He grimaced a little as he swallowed. "Man...you sure this won't kill me?"

Justin laughed and held up his own glass before taking a long drink. "Mm. Nah. You'll get used to it." Though he turned his attention to Jason to engage in small talk, his ears remained tuned to what Garret's answer might be to Sapphire.

Garret took another sip before he glanced back at this rather intriguing young woman. Getting to know someone. Sharing of information. Seriously? He wasn't cut out for this. "When a man has been specifically built for the brain and brawn...there's not a whole lot of room left for anything else." He thought back to the night when Nate had found him downstairs. He'd admitted he didn't even know who he was. And it was still true.

He took another swallow of his smoothie - it wasn't quite as bad the second time around. "I'm afraid I was made one hundred percent Agency." What about his early childhood? What about his parents? Had he been born just to be sold? Had they meant that for him all along? Had he just been conceived to make money?

"I guess that means there really isn't a whole lot underneath. Sorry to disappoint."


"Eh..." Clint shrugged. "Got in a fight with a pickup and it won the first round." Though he winced as Angel worked on his hand, he didn't complain - he never did when she was helping. It was his own stupid fault after all. 

Grateful for the help and the pain killers, he was ready to leave, but stopped and leaned back against the doorframe and cocked his head. Had they really neglected her lately? He'd been avoiding family for obvious reasons - and Wendy was gracious enough to not complain about keeping to themselves more recently. He hadn't thought about anyone else noticing though.

"Things are good." He gave Angel a small smile. "Just getting into a new routine with four of us now." His eyes dropped for a moment as he thought about all the reasons he'd been less than sociable lately - none of which he wanted to discuss. But he didn't have anything against Angel. "If, um... If you and Luke wanna come over for supper, you're more than welcome. I know Wendy would love it, and that way you'd get your grandkids to yourself instead of sharing with the whole gang." 

The offer was genuine - just because he wanted nothing to do with his own immediate family, he wasn't going to keep Wendy from hers. After all...they did all live on the same property. It was frustrating that he couldn't retreat to his own place somewhere else...but he couldn't take Wendy away from the home she loved. 

Clint tried to smile again. "So if you want to, just let me or Wendy know."

"Ack! Not again!" Lizzie tossed her cards into the pile and groaned. She sat on the living room floor with Hannah and Rosalyn playing a card game and munching on popcorn. They didn't usually have the same days off work, but when they did, they usually ended up doing something fun. 

Rosalyn grinned and picked up the cards to shuffle. "I told you, almost every night at the ranch turned into a card game. I've had plenty of practice."

"Not fair. Plain and simple." Lizzie sprawled out on the floor. "Any game you're not good at? Pick that one "

Hannah whacked her leg. "You're just a sore loser."

"Am not! I'm..." She sat up as someone knocked at the door. "Expecting company?"

Rosalyn frowned. "Not me. Clint's not coming til tomorrow."

Hannah shook her head. "Nope."

Lizzie sighed as she looked at the other two. "What? Does that automatically make me the doorman?" Without an answer, she rolled her eyes and got up. "Fine, fine. Deal me in again," she called over her shoulder. "And no stacking the cards!" 

Getting to the door, she opened it and looked around before her gaze fell on Chad and her eyes widened. She'd seen pictures. She'd heard descriptions. And there was no doubt in her mind. "Ohhh boy." She bit her lip. "I'm...gonna take a wild guess that you're not here to see me." She blinked. "Although I wouldn't complain."

"Hey, who is it?" Hannah yelled from inside. 

Lizzie still looked at Chad, ignoring her friend. "Just, um...don't move." She turned and trotted back to the living room. "Rosalyn...you better go to the door."

"What? Why? Who's here?"

"Just...just go." Lizzie pulled her up from the floor and gave her a shove.

Rosalyn cautiously wandered ahead, curious as to why she heard whispering behind her. Getting to the open door herself, she stopped dead in her tracks. "Chad?" He was here? Even though it was a warm day, her skin rippled with goosebumps as her pulse quickened. 

She stepped out on the porch and just looked at him for several long moments as tears filled her eyes. She didn't have to ask why he was here. Almost a month without contact...and she knew.

Moving quickly, she closed the gap and fell into him, standing on her tiptoes to wrap her arms around him, burying her face. "You came..." Her words were muffled against his chest. "I...I was hoping you would. I'm so sorry."

This Time...

Hope can't help the small smile that surfaced as she shook her head. Compaired to where Gunner was a while ago he was doing ok now. He often rambled when he wasn't comfortable but she was use to that and if he was still coming to see her that was good in her eyes.

   "So what you are saying is its kind of like an itch you can't scratch?"

Looking down at her note pad and jotting something down Hope looks up to Gunner once more and cocks her head to one side for a moment just studying him before speaking again.

   "Sometimes its ok to itch, just not to much or you will end up bleeding. In other news you haven't told me how life in general, relationships, and friendships are going? Everything all right with that?"

Looking up at the knock Angel smiled as she saw Clint, and than look down at his hand shook her head. If it wasn't one thing with these boys it was another. They sure did keep her on her toes though and she couldn't complain about that as long as it was nothing to to bad.

   "How did you do it this time?"

Taking Clint's hand Angel was quick to work on it. It did in fact need stitches but only four of them. It didn't take long to get them in and cleaned up. Bandaging them and than getting more gause for cleaning.

   "Here is some extra dressing and three hydrocodone. You'll be as right as rain in no time."

Turning to start cleaning a some stuff up Angel stops and looks back to Clint giving a smile. She missed see him and Wendy more but she new life was life sometimes.

   "How is everything at home? I miss you guys."

   "You are part of the team...even if you don't know it yet."

Sapphire smiles at Garret before looking back to her food and taking another bite thoughtfully thinking. Garret wasn't so bad if everyone would just give him a chance. Even if Garret had mad some worse mistakes and done things bad more than other they still should give him a shot at having a better life.

   "I guess your right. I was blessed with looks and brains, just for...other stuff or something. What about you? You have to have brains because you are here, and there is no question about your brawn, but what else is under all that?!"            

The drive was fast and Chad was almost there in no time. His mind had wondered the whole way wondering if Rosalyn would really be happy to see him. He hoped she would be, and Clint wouldn't be in to much trouble for tell him. He had to see her though. He had to make sure she was ok. She had to know he still cared.

Pulling into the driveway he looked at the address again just to make sure he had the right place. Seeing it was Chad shut the car off and got out grabbing his cell phone and wallet. Tucking them into his back pocket as he walked up to the steps Chad took a deep breath. 

Knocking on the door He waited leaning against the railing. A million thoughts ran through his mind as he waited.                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                 

Stitches

Clint could only nod before watching Chad leave. He hoped he'd done the right thing. He hoped he hadn't betrayed his sisters trust for nothing. If things didn't work out, he'd have hell to pay. But...he just had a feeling Chad was what could finally bring Rosalyn the happiness she deserved. 

Heaving a sigh, Clint glanced back at the car, but his throbbing hand won out. He couldn't concentrate on anything anyway. After tossing aside his tools, he finally ventured outside and to Angel's office. It was different for him...she wasn't just the ranch doctor, but her being his mother-in-law always made it a little more awkward than need be. Regardless, here he was.

After knocking, he entered and glanced around. "Hey, Angel..." A sheepish look crossed his face as he held up his hand wrapped in the bloody bandana. "I, um...yeah. Stiches, prolly." There was so much more on his mind. So much more pain in his heart than his hand. And maybe it showed in his tired eyes, even though he tried so hard to hide it. But he refused to speak of it. "...and maybe a pain pill or two?"

In the quiet stall in the barn, Jim stood beside a colt, whose mother was busy eating. His hand rubbed the furry neck, his fingers running through the short mane. His other hand cupped under the young horse's mouth as the colt got his first taste of sweet feed. He lipped at the grain then swished it around in his mouth before bobbing his head up and down.

Jim smiled then chuckled as he continued to rub his neck. "Mm...you like that, don't you?"

"I thought maybe I'd never see that smile again."

Jim's head whipped around at the sound of Mick's voice, and his expression immediately changed. "I was just... It was..."

Mick stood at the stall door, arms folded. He'd been here for a few minutes already, just watching his brother interact with the young horse. "Don't let me stop you."

"Naw, I was done. I mean...I wasn't gonna stay long anyway." Jim let the colt finish the small handful of grain before coaxing him back to his mother. He left and shut the stall, turning to leave, but Mick stopped him."

"Jim, wait." Mick sighed, frustrated and confused. "Why do I have to catch you off guard in order to see the brother I used to know?"

Jim stopped and glanced over his shoulder. "I guess maybe the old me doesn't like hanging around much anymore."

"But why? I don't understand. I know things have been rough but...if you'd just see that what you're doing has made things so much worse."

"I know." Jim nodded slowly before resuming his route to the door. "I know." Getting outside, he stopped as the sound of a leaving vehicle caught his attention and he looked to the driveway. He could feel Mick coming up behind him. "Did someone just leave?"

"Uh...looks like it." Mick squinted. "A jeep maybe?"

"Huh." Could it be? Jim shook his head. He hoped not. Without asking more, he aimed for the house.

Garret really hadn't expected much of a response from Sapphire, let alone as nice a one as he got, and his eyebrows rose slightly. He accepted her handshake though, and a grin tugged at the corner of his mouth. "New guy? That sounds more like an addition to the team, not the resident prisoner." 

Despite preparing the smoothies at the counter, Justin listened to the conversation, pleased that Sapphire was willing to interact.

Garret's eyes roamed Sapphire's face. How had she ended up here? What was so appealing about this place? Why did she stay after all the abuse her brother had endured? "From what I hear, you've got a pretty good brain yourself. Just 'cause you're not on the I.T. team doesn't mean looks are the only thing you've got going for you."

Gunner grunted and stood up, crumpling up his sandwich wrapper. "Well, this has been cozy, but I've got an appointment with my shrink."

Jason snickered and waved him off. "Don't stir the pot or it'll boil over on ya." 

"Yeah, yeah." 

Justin finished up his two glasses of what was quite visually unappealing, and slid one across the table to Garret, but was careful not to interrupt the conversation with Sapphire.

Gunner flopped down in Hope's extra chair, and smirked a little. It was the first of the month, and that meant his routine evaluation. Usually it went quickly - he answered a few questions, they exchanged smalltalk, and that was it. At least Reese had reduced the mandatory visits from once a week to once a month, but it still put Gunner on edge.

"Okay, so...Hi, how are you? Oh, me? I'm good, thanks." He bit his lip to try and hide his silly grin as his knee started to bounce. "I keep thinking Reese is gonna lay off one of these days, but I guess not." If he missed just one session, he'd be in big trouble. 

He fell quiet for a moment. Despite him treating this so lightly, there were still deeper issues that needed to be vented, lest they overtake him once again. But even so, he still treated this as just something that was required of him.

"Alright, so first thing first - my whole crazy in the head issue. Well, you know how if you've got a thorn in your shoe, it hurts right? But if you keep walking on it, it sorta goes numb and you eventually forget it's there. But then if you take a break, then start walking again, the pain comes back, and can be even worse." His knee continued to bounce, and his fingers fidgeted in his lap. 

"So I take a break from my whole obsession thing 'cause I'm told to, but then when certain thoughts enter my head, it's worse, ya know?" He shrugged. "Not that I want Reese to get wind of that. He'd prolly suspend me...again. Do you know how many times I've been suspended?" He started to count on his hands, then gave up. "Yeah, a lot. Con could vouch for that. He was always trying to keep me out of trouble - even when we were on the police force together." He smirked. "I miss him around here. Just isn't the same, but as far as I know, he's being stubborn. Not that I blame him. I'd be scared to come back too. Not that he's said he's scared, mind you, but I think that's what it is. But then, I'm not the professional in that department... That would be you."

Another grin surfaced, and he got to his feet. "So yeah. We good? I gotta go help close a case downtown."

Anything Less

Taking the paper from Clint, Chad was thankful at how willing he had been to give him the address. He never had an issue with Clint but that didn't mean He'd betray his sisters wishes and give it to him. There were so many reasons why he didn't have to, but he did and for that he was thankful. Giving a small nod he new what Clint spoke was the truth. He really didn't want to run into there dad. Things were hard enough he didn't want to make them any harder.

    "Thank you Clint, this means a lot."

Turning around and grabbing his jacket Chad slips it on before turning to look at Clint again and giving a small smile. He was happy Rosalyn had such an amazing brother to take care of her. It made him feel good.

   "I wouldn't expect anything less. Thanks again."

I think I can do that. I'll see you soon, I'm starving.

Katie sent her message and than put her phone away. She needed to get a little more work done before Hunter got there. She was happy she was still going to see him though and the whole day wouldn't be a total lost cause.

Silently sitting Sapphire just watched everything that was going on between all the men. She often just found it funny to watch and not really do anything. Seeing out they acted with each other, being an observer was fun.

As Garret talks to her Sapphire brings her attached back to him. She'd know he had sat down next to her but it really didn't bother her. He was just another person trying to take one day at a time. Continuing to study him for a long moment everyone else kinda just faded away. Finally smile she held out her hand and smiles.

   "Heya, I'm Sapphire, the one and only twin he's got. He got the brains I got the looks. Your the new guy...Garret right?"

 
 

Dreams

Clint squinted at Chad, checking to make sure he was telling the truth, before showing a small smile. "Good. 'Cause she deserves no less." 

He moved from the car and found a piece of scrap paper to scribble down an address, then held it out to Chad. "Rosalyn made me promise not to tell anyone where she is. But I figure you'll end up finding her regardless. So...here. It's a house that's been divided into apartments. She's living with a couple other girls. Not even our parents know the address, so my suggestion is to not stick around and let Dad see you. It's not worth the fight."

He searched Chad's eyes. "Don't let her go, don't let her down...and don't hurt her." His tone was stern. He didn't care if Chad was older or larger. "Any of those happen, you'll be dealing with me instead of Dad." 

A pause gave his eyes time enough to soften. "But I have a feeling I don't have anything to worry about. Just help her keep her dreams alive."


Hunter finished his set of push ups on the living room floor before sitting up and looking at his phone. A very small but bad feeling gnawed at the very pit of his stomach. His fingers hovered over the keyboard. It was okay that they couldn't have a picnic. Stuff happened. But Katie was gonna be Jason's bodyguard? Why her? Wasn't there anyone else? He trusted her...of course. But...he couldn't deny that he didn't like her being with Jason all day every day.

He sighed. He had nothing to worry about. Right?

No worries! I'll bring the Chinese, u furnish the good company ;-) See u soon.


Justin eased down at the interrogation room's table and retrieved his notepad from the same backpack he always carried. "Good morning."

On the outside, Garret was sitting lazily in his chair, while on the inside he was battling irritation from being here again. "Is it good because it's morning, or good because you like digging around inside my head?"

Justin grinned. "Somebody's in a fine mood today." He glanced at Garret's knuckles and wondered what on earth had happened. He hadn't received word of any incidents the last few days. "Who'd you beat up?"

"Why does everybody assume I beat someone up?" Garret's tone was less than happy. "There's a reason there's a rec room, right?"

Justin quirked an eyebrow. "You did all that on a punching bag?"

"Look, what do you want? Why are we sitting here again?"

It took Justin a moment to respond as he studied this very complex client. "Protocol. But the door's not locked. You're free to go."

"And the consequence?"

"Further suspicion, a report that notes your lack of cooperation, and a delayed end to this temporary pain in the neck."

Garret sighed. "Nice."

Justin ignored the attitude. "So why didn't you stop beating the punching bag before you hurt yourself?"

That whole scene wasn't something Garret really wanted to think about, and his darting eyes proved it. "Maybe I didn't notice I was hurting myself."

"Interesting word choice."

"Why? Because you think I've spent my life hurting myself?"

"Your words, not mine."

"Why don't you just quit with the games?"

"Why don't you?" Justin shook his head. "How badly do you want to move on? To gain back control of your own life?"

"I never had control to begin with."

"So does the thought of having control now motivate or scare you?"

Garret frowned. "Why would it scare me?"

"The unknown can be a formidable foe."

"The only formidable foe I see right now is you and all your idiotic questions."

Justin shrugged. "So fake it. What's your favorite sport?"

Garret's eyebrows rose in disbelief. "I...don't do sports."

"Favorite music?"

"Depends on my mood. What does this-"

"Color?"

Garret sighed. "Green."

Justin jotted down notes. "Animal?"

"They all suck." Garret's eyes rolled.

"Mm-hmm... What was your favorite toy growing up?"

Garret shifted uncomfortably as his mind immediately pictured that teddy bear he'd lost the night he'd been sold. "Toys aren't allowed in the Agency, genius."

Justin cocked his head, taking notice of every subtle signal Garret's body language emitted. "Right. How about food?"

"Seriously?" Garret scoffed. "Whatever keeps me alive."

"Where were you born?"

Garret's eyes flashed. "And this matters because...?"

Justin smiled. "Because getting to know someone means telling each other about yourself. My favorite color is turquoise, I love Italian food, I'm the proud owner of two beautiful dogs, and I was born here in Nevada."

Garret have him a bored look. "You forgot a few."

"And you aren't as good at pretending as you think you are." Justin stood up and thumbed to the door. "I'm hungry. It's lunchtime. Join me in the the break room for a bite."

"Anything good?"

"Eh...it'll keep you alive..."

...In the break room, only a few were there now eating their lunches - Jason, Sapphire and Gunner. They were chatting and laughing...until Garret and Justin were spotted at the doorway. Jason leaned back in his chair and put his hands behind his head, wondering what this was all about. Gunner leaned back as well, balancing his chair on the back legs and just waiting for an explanation. They'd all been told to give Garret a break but...what was Justin up to?

Entering the room, Justin immediately spotted the two guys and their behavior. He knew they probably didn't even realize what they were doing, but he wasn't going to tolerate it, nor would he risk an altercation started by their territorial body language. Needing to get to the refrigerator anyway, he walked behind them and thumped Jason on the back of the head - hard - causing him to drop his arms. "Knock it off." Continuing his route, he hooked Gunner's chair leg with his ankle and tugged just enough to throw him off balance, forcing him to straighten up. "You, too."

Gunner and Jason exchanged looks of surprise and annoyance before Gunner spoke up. "Hi to you too, Justin."

Justin opened the fridge and glanced over his shoulder at them and quirked a grin. "Greetings. Got room for two more?"

There were actually several empty chairs - no one could say they didn't have room, even though the tense atmosphere suggested they really didn't want this particular company. The silence wasn't surprising, and Justin ignored it, retrieving some fruit from the fridge he'd put there earlier and spreading it out on the counter. "Garret, you like bananas?"

Garret was still standing just inside the doorway, arms crossed as he took in this new scene. He could tell the two men didn't want him there...and for good reason. He'd pummeled them both at least once already. If he were them, he wouldn't want to sit at the same table either. But Justin apparently didn't care.

"Garret?"

He snapped his attention back to Justin. "Yeah."

"Good." Justin plugged in the blender and started one of his concoctions of fruit, yogurt and spinach. "Find a seat."

After another glance around the table, Garret finally chose one of the empty chairs next to Sapphire. He couldn't remember a time he'd felt this kind of awkwardness. He'd been a high ranking officer for so long that being this casual...it had only been reserved for the tightest teams. This...was different.

Gunner took a bite out of his sandwich before taking note of Garret's still-skinned knuckles. "Who got your wrath this time?"

Garret flexed his fingers before he cocked his head and looked back at him. "What's it to you?"

Gunner shrugged. "Just wanna know when my number's coming up again is all." Several spinach leaves ended up in his hair and he jumped, then shook them out. "Hey," he chided Justin. "Watch it."

Justin turned around in mock surprise. "What? Oh, I'm sorry. Thought you might want a salad to go along with your bull."

Jason snickered, which earned him a punch to the arm. Gunner's eyes narrowed at Justin. "Careful, counselor."

"What?" Justin turned on the blender. "Can't hear you."

Garret clenched his jaw in an effort not to snicker. He wasn't sure why Justin was going to this effort - he could handle himself, and the guys weren't going to bother, let alone intimidate him. But the scene was still funny.

He sighed and glanced to his left at Sapphire in an attempt to change the atmosphere. He could tolerate anything, but it wasn't worth it just to sit here and take it. "You're... Scott's twin sister, right?"

Deal

Catching the wrench Chad starts to go to work while listing to Clint. His face held a look of being deep in thought for a long moment. He could see where Rosalyn was coming from. It was a lot of stuff going on for anyone to really handle and his heart went out to her.

   "I know its hard to understand but I love her. I'm already in the middle and if I didn't want to be I wouldn't have kept contact with her. Everyone has there family issues and you can't have the good without the bad."

Bending down Chad tinkers with a few things just silently thinking. He felt bad for Rosalyn, how she must hurt, how she must be confused. He just wanted to hold her, to kiss away all her tears. He new that he couldn't make everything better, but he wanted to try. Till she herself told him to leave her be he wanted to do all he could to bring a smile to her face.

Looking up at Clint Chad smiled. He new exactly what he wanted to do. There was no doubt, no wonder, he didn't need to work through his feelings. He new what to do already.

   "I'd walk to the end of the earth to see your sister smile. Nothing is to great for me to stay away and I have no doubt. I love your sister will all my heart, and I just want her to be happy and to smile."

Once Jason walked away Katie pulled out her phone and pulled up the text message to Hunter. Since she had to stay here she still wanted to see him for lunch, they would just have a spread a blanket here and have there lunch.

Heya, change of plans. I can't take a half day today. Some people are after Jason and I was picked to be his body guard till everything is safe. I still would like to have lunch though if you dont mind just having it here.

Listening to Reese Nate started to understand what was going on a little more. He felt bad for more than one reason now and wish he'd known sooner. But it became just a little bit cleared why Reese had been so up tight. He was surprised and worried too about some of the changed Reese talked about. How would things pan out he didn't know.

   "Now that I know a little bit more of all that is going on. I'm sorry to that I didn't tell you what I was doing. I should have so at least if something went wrong you wouldn't be in the dark."

Taking a sip of his own coffee Nate gives a small nod. He didn't like the tension and he just wanted it to be gone. He'd work on stuff, and his communication a little more.

   "You got a deal."  

Hero

Seeing Chad was going to stay, Clint leaned on the open engine hood after tossing him a different wrench. "Yeah...she's fine." He turned his attention to the engine but winced when he tried to use his freshly wounded hand. "As fine as she can be after her own father made her miserable enough to walk away from the place she loves most."

Bitterness laced his tone and even though he was staring at the engine, his mind was far from his task now. He finally sighed and glanced back to Chad. "She did want to cut contact with you. But only for two reasons. One, because of all the flack from our dad, she got so screwed up, I think she started to forget who she really is. She couldn't handle the conflict anymore. And...two...because she didn't want you caught in the middle."

He paused and straightened up. "Look...my sister is in love with you. If you don't want to deal with all this family crap or her mixed signals, I get it. I won't blame you if you walk away, and I won't tell her you were here. But...if you can handle it...and if you care as much as I think you do... I'll tell you where she is. Despite her pulling away...you're what she wants most right now."


"Okay." Jason smirked a little. "You haven't lost your stubbornness, that's apparent." He grinned before turning to leave. "I'll touch base with ya later, Hero."


"I know. And I'm sorry too." Reese nodded slowly.

"Look, I, um... I know we haven't seen eye to eye lately...on a lot of things. And I can't lie...It really bothers me." He pursed his lips in thought. "Not because I'm upset we disagree but because I just hate the tension and distrust...on both sides."

He shrugged and took a sip of coffee. "Not sure how we got to this point, but I wanna fix it. Somehow. The Elite can't afford to have us at odds."

A long pause followed, and he finally took a seat in the extra chair. "There are...changes...that are coming. They have to do with coordinating efforts with the FBI. That's the easy way of putting it, but we're getting pressure from the board, and the bottom line is they're too uncomfortable with our continued free rein. They want us more accountable and less vigilante-ish."

A light chuckle surfaced. "Not quite what I envisioned when I joined TJY under Austin's lead. But it is what it is, and I believe in our work too much to let it end."

He searched Nate's eyes. "No one else knows about any upcoming changes yet, so I'd appreciate it if you kept that tidbit under your hat. But, um...back to us..." He sighed deeply. "I trust you, Nate. I always have. We may not agree. But I trust you. So I want you to know...if you do anything or know anything you think I'd disagree with...just tell me. You're right that I probably wouldn't have wanted you to stay in touch with Victoria. But all I'd expect is to have been informed anyway. I trust your snap judgments and I don't require that you get my permission on everything. I just need to stay in the loop. Especially being under as much scrutiny as we are right now. We need to be a well-oiled machine...always, but especially now."

Another pause allowed for another sip of coffee. "So. I guess the bottom line here is I'm sorry things have been rough. And I need you as my top agent now more than ever. If I get cranky, it's only because I'm trying to make the best decisions for our team as a whole. I'll be open with you, if you're open with me."

Something Worse

Knowing Clint did need the help Chad didn't hesitate to take off his jacket and throw it over on of the tool boxes. He really didn't mind helping, and he didn't mind getting dirty either. Even if thats not why he was there he could still help, and talk at the same time. Clint was his friend too not just Rosalyn's brother. 

   "She moved?"

Chad couldn't help the shock that laced his voice as he moved closer to the car. He hadn't known she was moving, or that she was even considering it. He did know she was tired of being here, and things had gotten pretty rough with there dad but he never would of guessed that she would leave.

   "Is she alright? I haven't heard from her in weeks. I know she was probley trying to drop contact with me, but I'd never forgive myself if I just assumed that and there really was something more wrong."

Katie searches Jason's face for a long moment. She didn't want him to feel like he was a burden because he wasn't, and being a bodyguard was just part of her job title. She never thought badly of it, or regretted it. She did just wish the Agency would leave them alone. She didn't like when someones life was on the line.

    "I'll think about it but more than likely I'll just stay here now. Last thing we need right now is I go off, and Reese gets upset. He's been in quite the mood lately and now I dont want to make it worse. Thank you though J for being so willing, and trying not to hold me down. You're not though so no need to worry."

Smiling at Jason she gives a nod. Her mind was made up. He's just have to call Hunter and let him know what was going on. Maybe he'd like to do lunch there with her. It was much different from a bike ride and a picnic but at least they would still be spending time together.

 Looking up at Reese as he handed him the coffee Nate took a sip. The warm liquid felt good, and he had been running late this morning himself. The coffee tasted extra good because of the lack of it this morning. Putting it down on his desk and giving a small smile Nate nods a little to Reese.

   "Truce.!"

He new all the pressure Reese was under and he could only imgen how blindsided he was with all this stuff that kept going on. So though Nate didn't agree always he could never be to upset at Reese for to long.

   "And I'm sorry it felt like I was keeping you in the dark. That was not my intention at all. I'll try to keep you more informed next time."

Moved

Not having been paying a bit of attention to the door, Chad caught Clint off guard, and he whipped his head around in surprise at the new voice. "Chad...Hi." He toyed with the bandana around his hand, and a faint smile surfaced. "I wondered when you'd show up."

He ambled back to the pickup, lifting an eyebrow at Chad's offer to help. "Well... I shouldn't turn you down since I'm running on a tight schedule and can't seem to..." He picked up a wrench as he left his grouchy sentence unfinished. Complaining about Wes' absence wouldn't do any good. "So you can stick around if you want, but... I know you're not here to work on cars."

His fingers fiddled with the wrench as he studied Chad's face. "Rosalyn's not here. She moved to town a few weeks ago."


Jason chuckled at Katie, appreciating her humor and her attempt to make the best of the situation. He shook his head when she mentioned her plans though. "Go. Take the afternoon off. I won't be anywhere but here anyway." Actually, the truth of the matter was since Misty, he had no real life other than home and work. He hung out at Con and Jamie's a bit, but didn't want to be a nuisance, not to mention Con was busy at the factory six days a week. Jason still had friends, for sure, but with the band slowing down lately too, his social life had taken a nosedive. Most of his lunch breaks were spent here. But he smiled at Katie anyway.

"I'll be here, then I'll just make one of the guys shadow me this evening. No big deal." He really didn't want to put her out, no matter how willing she was. This whole thing was stupid to begin with - he just wished he could quit being a target and that the Agency would stop picking on them. 

"I don't know what cases Reese will want to assign us so we're working together anyway, but I doubt he'll have a plan until at least tomorrow." He shrugged and stood up, turning the chair back around. "I, um...thanks." His eyes landed on hers for a moment, and for just a split second, his heart ached. But he forced it to pass quickly. "...For being a good sport, I mean."


Reese wandered in to work, later than normal, with two cups of coffee in hand from the nearby shop. He looked tired this morning, and just a little unkempt, but not disheveled. His button-down shirt was tucked into his jeans, the sleeves rolled up to his elbows. It was a contrast to the dress pants and tie he normally wore, but today...today he'd been to weary to concern himself with being formal. 

Stopping at Nate's cubicle, he handed him one of the cups of coffee. "Truce?"

Help

Getting to the ranch Chad drove up the driveway slowly. It liked like a normal day from the other times he'd been there. Though he was slightly feel a bit worried. He didn't know what would happen if he saw Jim. The last time they met it was not so good.

Parking and scanning the ranch Chad didn't even know where to start about Rosalyn. Letting his eyes falling Clint's shop though Chad made his way there. He seemed like one of the best people to talk to and he really had no issue with him. Knocking on the door Chad enters and looks around. 

   "Clint are you here?"

Walking farther in Chad caches a glimpse of Clint. He looked in rought shape like it had been a long day. Giving a wave he walked a little closer.

   "Hey, sorry to bother you...."

Seeing the car that was being worked on and than Clint's hand Chad gave a little nod. He was a little mechanically inclined. 

   "Looks like you could us an extra set of hands. Want some help?"

That's not why he came but he didn't mind helping at all. He could talk to Clint about Rosalyn while he was working if Clint would let him.

Truce?

Jason chuckled at Katie, appreciating her humor and her attempt to make the best of the situation. He shook his head when she mentioned her plans though. "Go. Take the afternoon off. I won't be anywhere but here anyway." Actually, the truth of the matter was since Misty, he had no real life other than home and work. He hung out at Con and Jamie's a bit, but didn't want to be a nuisance, not to mention Con was busy at the factory six days a week. Jason still had friends, for sure, but with the band slowing down lately too, his social life had taken a nosedive. Most of his lunch breaks were spent here. But he smiled at Katie anyway.

"I'll be here, then I'll just make one of the guys shadow me this evening. No big deal." He really didn't want to put her out, no matter how willing she was. This whole thing was stupid to begin with - he just wished he could quit being a target and that the Agency would stop picking on them. 

"I don't know what cases Reese will want to assign us so we're working together anyway, but I doubt he'll have a plan until at least tomorrow." He shrugged and stood up, turning the chair back around. "I, um...thanks." His eyes landed on hers for a moment, and for just a split second, his heart ached. But he forced it to pass quickly. "...For being a good sport, I mean."


Reese wandered in to work, later than normal, with two cups of coffee in hand from the nearby shop. He looked tired this morning, and just a little unkempt, but not disheveled. His button-down shirt was tucked into his jeans, the sleeves rolled up to his elbows. It was a contrast to the dress pants and tie he normally wore, but today...today he'd been to weary to concern himself with being formal. 

Stopping at Nate's cubicle, he handed him one of the cups of coffee. "Truce?"


On the outside, the ranch looked so peaceful and happy. And for the most part, it was true. Horses grazed in the west pasture, Mick was exercising horses while giving a riding lesson, several men were working on Eric's bunkhouse, women were busy with housework, and the sun was shining down on it all. Underneath though, there was still a strange tension hanging in the air. Though having a plan in place, Eric's situation was still a stressful one. Happy, but stressful. Along with that, the issue with Jim was not getting better. If anything, it was growing worse. He was becoming more and more withdrawn, sticking to barn tasks, then disappearing home for hours, and sometimes he didn't even join in the evening meal. Becky had vented to Angel multiple times about his moodiness, and his weight loss, but it seemed there was nothing anyone could do but pray it would pass. 

Out in the garage, Clint lay under a pickup, half-covered head to toe in grease as he worked. Reaching up with a wrench, he paused once, noticing the grime under his fingernails and on his palms. Most of it would come off, but some of it never did. Not when he worked in here every day. Wendy didn't mind, and she'd told him so...but he minded. Was this all that was left for him in life? Was this his lot? Would he be stuck here forever? 

He sighed and focused on the truck again. He'd told the owner he'd have it done by tomorrow and...so far it wasn't looking good. Not that he had any help. And that thought sent a new pang of resentment through his veins. 

As he worked, his wrench slipped, sending his hand skidding across a part of the truck, and tearing into his flesh. Growling in pain, he slid out from under the pickup and looked at the top of his hand which was now producing a good flow of blood. Great. Just great. He got up and went to the first aid kit on the wall and grabbed a couple packages of gauze, tearing into them with his teeth before pressing the pads to his wound. It didn't look like it was going to help much though. He didn't have time to go have Angel use stitches though. So instead, he used the pads and tied a bandanna around his hand to hold them in place to at least keep the bleeding to a minimum. As soon as he was finished here, he'd go get cleaned up. But he had to get this done. Work was slow, and they needed all these jobs they could get. 

Never a Pain

Nate couldn't help but shake his head and let out his own exasperated sign. Everything had gotten out of hand again, and he didn't like being threatened, or compared to someone else. Nate didn't think they were pulling in different directions at all. In fact he had thought there ware walking the same line. Just because He hadn't mentioned something didn't mean he was pulling a different way. 

He didn't even want to say anything else. Nate was to upset and more than likely would just say something he didn't mean. So when Reese dismissed him he was happy in a way. 

Heading out of the office and closing the door behind him Nate didn't bother to stop and he anyone. He just made his way to the door and head home. Maybe some family time is what he needed. After having such a good afternoon he didn't want to end it on a bad note.

Hearing Jason's voice Katie looked up at him and gave a smile. She was happy they were on talking terms again and were starting to build there friendship back. It was important to Katie, and it made things around the office better too.

As Jason's tone changed though and he says they need to talk Katie can't help the small sinking feeling. Something didn't feel right and she didn't like that one bit. Hearing the run down about the hit and everything else that went with it Katie couldn't help the small look of shock on her face. If it wasn't one thing it was always another. They never really did get a break did them. 

   "It's never a pain to keep you safe Jason. Plus we are just starting to gain our friendship back, I don't need someone offing you."

Katie smiles a little as she leaned back in her chair. She tried to find humor in the situation though there was very little. She didn't know if this was going to feel awkward, or strange, but she was going to try and keep it from getting in the way of her friendship and her job.

   "No problem. I had a date with Hunter this afternoon. I was going to play hookie, but I guess I should stay now. I dont need to make Reese one war path anymore than he already is. Just let me know whenever you need to go somewhere, I got your back."

Chad woke with a jolt as the plane landed on the ground. Looking out the window Chad gives a tired yawn and a little stretch. It had been a long flight and he'd been only able to get a little sleep on the plane between stops, but now that he was here he was wide away as the sun peeked through clouds in the sky.

It didn't take long for Chad to get off the plane, get his bags and head to the car rental shop. Sitting in the car he pulled out his phone and dialed the ranch one more time. Still getting no answer he new what he had to do now. The ranch was his destination and hoping he would see Rosalyn was his goal. He just wanted to make sure everything was ok.

Awkward

Reese frowned at Nate's reasoning, but didn't argue. He was too tired. The fact alone that Nate didn't tell him something because he knew he'd disagree was irritating though. Had he chosen the wrong man for this job? Should he have made someone else Garret's handler? Garret seemed to respond well to him though, so surely it had been the right choice. But why did Reese feel like he was losing his grip on what was really going on? Why did he feel like Nate wasn't telling him enough about what was happening? It didn't feel good, and after trying to move on from their previous disagreements, this just made it all the harder.

He was ready to just let Nate go, when he was hit with the last bit of information. "Excuse me? And when did you find this out?" He cocked his head, knowing that it hadn't just been today, and simply stared at Nate for several long, tense moments. Finally, he threw up his hands before starting to sift through yet another mountain of paperwork. "You know what? Just...go home for the day, and feel lucky you're not somebody like Gunner, who I'd probably suspend for not having told me something like this the moment you found out." There were so many things he would have handled differently, had he known Victoria was a Medridge.

He took a moment to take a deep breath before glancing up at him one last time. "I'm sure it did just slip your mind, and I'm sure you're acting on everything you feel is right. And I can appreciate that - really. I just thought we were over this little thing of pulling in opposite directions, but I guess I was wrong." He returned to his paperwork. "I'll see you tomorrow. Shut the door on your way out, if you would, please. Thank you." This conversation was over for now. He had too many other things to worry about.


Hunter grinned and leaned down to give Katie's neck a soft kiss. "Well, I wouldn't want you to wind up dead...that would be so tragic." He started to laugh though, and gave her another squeeze. "I think I can be satisfied with just part of the day. So a date it is then. And bring your jacket...we'll take my bike."


That evening, it was Wyatt who went home with Jason to keep an eye on things. They didn't know what to look for or when someone might strike, but Reese was taking no chances. Most likely, the evening shifts would vary between several of the guys, but Reese was putting his foot down about using Katie during the day, whether Jason liked it or not...

"Mornin', Katie." Jason had just gotten to work the next morning after juggling a new routine with Wyatt around, and his hair was still wet from his rushed shower. Trooper was also by his side - an addition he himself had decided couldn't hurt, and at least Reese was allowing that as long as the huge canine behaved.

Jason slipped into the cubicle and straddled an extra chair backward before sighing. "I...need to talk to you."

Trooper wandered in as well, even though there really wasn't room for him, and set his chin on the desk, eyeing Katie lazily.

"Get out of here, ya big brute," Jason chided.

The dog glanced over at him and huffed a sigh, then gave Katie a slobbery kiss before turning and leaving to lie down outside the cubicle.

Jason rolled his eyes before turning his attention back to the task at hand. "Um... there's sort of a hit out on me. It's the Agency. So Reese wants me to have a shadow. Again. I'm working nights out with the guys, but...daytime shifts..." He scrunched his nose and grimaced an apology. "Reese wants you back on bodyguard duty." He leaned his arms on the back of the chair. "I'm gonna talk to him about making sure we're at least on the same cases so if we gotta go out, it'll be together anyway, but...yeah."

He paused, just studying Katie's face. Would she find this uncomfortable or awkward? Would she hate it? Would she feel put out? They'd made such a good team before...but they'd been dating. Now she had someone else. Someone else to see after hours. To have lunches with. To have a life with, besides work. And now she'd be tied down to spending much of her day with Jason instead. Would she resent that?

"I, um..." He cleared his throat. "I'm sorry. I guess all I can offer is if you've got plans or something sometime, just tell me, and I can make sure I've got someone else to cover for you those days. I don't want this to be a pain in the neck for you."


It was late. Stars dotted the clear, black sky and a chilly breeze caressed the night air. All was quiet, except for the peaceful sounds of horses in the barns. The last couple weeks had been happy. Stressful. Fun. Upsetting. Inspiring. And tiring. Two new mouths to feed seemed a relatively small thing. But along with them came emotional stress, construction on Eric’s bunkhouse, and a very vague future. Family, though…that’s what counted here, just like it always had. From day one, the two families had been a team, and that’s what they would always be. 

In the back room at Angel’s office, a small lamp provided soft, warm light. For now, this was the babies’ room until Eric’s addition was finished. And most nights it was Eric’s room as well, except for when someone volunteered to take over for him. But most of the time, he insisted he stay.

Leaned back in an easy chair with his feet up, Eric was sound asleep, exhausted from another long day. Curled up down by his hip was one girl, while the other was snuggled up nearer his chest, his arms keeping both of them close under a now-haphazard blanket. For as much stress as all this had caused…right here and now there was peace. Peace in this little family. With Eric, Harmony and Melody.


Three weeks. Three weeks and two days to be exact. And though more settled now, it really didn’t feel all that much better. 

Rosalyn picked up another vase to dust, careful to clean around all the little knick knacks on the bookcase. Mrs. Jargen liked her things to be dusted just so, as Rosalyn had learned early on. It was one of five different houses she was cleaning now, which provided enough money to get by. There were no luxuries, but without her own car, and being able to split rent three ways, things seemed to work themselves out.  

She saw Clint at least twice a week when he’d come to town for supplies, for which she was grateful. He was the only one who had the landline number to call and keep in touch, so getting together for lunch was easy. She wondered if he really needed supplies that often though, but she never asked – it felt good that he at least cared enough to keep an eye on her. He never badgered her about her lack of communication with anyone else, and only gave her messages when she asked. And at least she was able to hear all about how his and Wendy’s baby was doing – she just wished she were there to spend time with her new niece. 

Then there was Chad. Rosalyn hadn’t contacted him since the day before she’d left the ranch – and she had not told him of her move. She’d left her broken phone with Clint, saying goodbye to all communication with the man who caused her heart so much turmoil. The stress and the emotions were too much to handle. Being on her own for the first time, thrown into a completely foreign part of life, sharing a house with two friends, unable to really communicate with her family anymore…it was all so overwhelming that handling any additional emotions seemed an impossible feat. And Chad certainly created additional emotions. She couldn’t handle it all. She just couldn’t. It was better to just make a clean break and move on, rather than trying to figure it all out. 

It was just one big mess, and Rosalyn felt so badly, but she didn’t know how else to handle it. Even if she wanted to communicate again, she couldn’t tell Chad she’d left behind all she loved. She couldn’t tell him she cried herself to sleep most nights. She couldn’t tell him that even though there was part of her that enjoyed this new life, there was also a part of her that was miserable. She couldn’t tell him because he didn’t deserve to share in this grief. He didn’t deserve to have to deal with all her problems or feel responsible. He deserved more - plain and simple…


“…Oh, this came for you today.” Lizzie tossed a box to Rosalyn in the kitchen. “Hannah’s been dying to see it.”

“Have not!” Hannah defended as she took a pizza out of the oven. “I’ve just been…curious.”

Rosalyn laughed as she opened up the box that her new cell phone had come in. “I have to admit, getting a new phone is always rather exciting.”

“A great excuse to celebrate.” Hannah licked some pizza sauce off her finger. “Mmm…perfect.” 

“So…” Lizzie leaned on the counter to get a closer look at the new phone. “Who’s getting your new number?”

Rosalyn smirked to accompany her sigh. “You guys, of course. And…my brother. And…maybe my mom…if I think my dad won’t interfere, which is still up for debate.” 

“And….your boyfriend?” 

“He’s not my boyfriend.” Rosalyn unwound her phone’s cord so she could charge it. “You know I haven’t talked to him in over three weeks.”

“Which I still don’t understand!” Hannah retrieved some paper plates from the cupboard. “From your description, he seems like a dream.”

“Mmm…yes. But I need more than a dream right now. I’m too involved in stark reality to try and figure out whether or not he’s part of my future or just part of a distracting fairytale.” 

Lizzie rolled her eyes. “I could do with a handsome, distracting fairytale right about now.”

Rosalyn grinned, but shook her head. “I’ve spent all this time trying to figure out my own reality, and the fact is, I am too wrapped up in trying to figure out me to try and figure out if Chad an I have anything more than a fairytale going. I need something solid. Something…real.” 

“So why on earth don’t you tell him that instead of leaving the poor guy hanging?” Hannah scolded.

“Because…it’s all bigger than just that. It’s…it’s… complicated.”

Lizzie grabbed a can of coke from the fridge. “It’s ‘cause she can’t bring herself to out-and-out break up with him, ‘cause she’s really in love with him but would rather not admit it.”

Rosalyn’s jaw dropped. “You’ve got some nerve tonight!”

Lizzie laughed. “As if that’s an oddity.” 

“Yeah, well…maybe I do have feelings for him. But he doesn’t deserve my current mess. I’m an emotional basket case, he’s too far away to do anything about it, and I don’t want him dragged into the middle of it.” Rosalyn plugged in her phone before flipping open the user manual to scan all the features. “He’s the kind of guy who needs someone stronger than that…someone with more guts…more experience…more confidence in who they are. He…deserves more than what I have to offer..” 

“So…you’re doing this for him?” Hannah had come up beside her at the counter. “Wouldn’t it still better to tell him rather than just making him think you’re dead or something?”

“Yeah. It would be,” Rosalyn admitted. “But he won’t think I’m dead because my brother would have told him, and he knows that, and even if he didn’t, he’d call the ranch and find out I simply left. And…Lizzie’s right. I just can’t bring myself to actually  tell him to lay off. Besides, the last time I did, it didn’t work anyway. If he thinks I’m mean for just shutting him out, then maybe he’ll get the message. He…probably already has, and already has another girl on his arm that actually has her act together.” The only thing she could do was get used to this. Chad would figure out that she no longer wanted to communicate, and he’d move on. And it would be better all around. Except…for the deep ache in her heart that kept reminding her how much she was still in love with him.

Granddaughter

As Jason enters Nate just mulled over Reese's words. He couldn't help but let Reese words hit him wrong. It felt like he was almost blowing things out of proportion, and giving Nate hardly any room at all. It sat with him wrong, and really did bother him.

Staying quit while Jason was there Nate threw him a look to say he was sorry. This wasn't his fault but he was the bringer of the bad news. Things couldn't be different. They were what they were. Once Jason was gone Nate turned his attachen back to Reese to pick up the conversation from before.

   "I was honest with you and I always have been. I didn't think Victoria was going to call at all, and if I had told you what I was doing you never would have let me. But I never lied, and I've never held information from you either when you've asked."

Letting out a long sigh and running a hand over his face Nate's eyes had become tired. There never seemed to be a day of rest, and things always seemed to get harder and harder. Someones life was always on the line.

   "Other than my sister took a liking to Garret, and he was a completely different person with her...in a good way. No I don't have anything else. If Victoria calls with any other information I'll let you know."

Standing Nate walks to the door before a through comes to him and he stops. He did know more and with everything going on it completely slipped his mind.

   "Oh yeah, it honestly slipped my mind but Victoria is Medridg's granddaughter. Scott confirmed it. She didn't have to call me, and she didn't have to give us the tip. She could be as cold as her grandfather but she's not, and thats saying a lot for that bloodline. But The Agency is all she's know since she was born. Doesn't make it right but it makes me want to help her that much more because its sad she's had to live a life like that."

Looking up at Hunter Katie smiles. She loves these nights with him when it was quiet, with a move just playing for sound and enjoying each others company. The sounds of a motorcycle ride and a picnic sounded amazing. A little bit of relaxation she needed. 

   "That sounds amazing, but Reese would kill me if I skipped a whole day. Maybe I can take a half day though and around lunch time you can pick we up and we can go. At least than I can spend time with you, and not get killed by my boss."

Scarlett couldn't help but laugh at Eli. He sure did always have a way with words and making her smile. He was so caring too and that was important to her. Family was everything and seeing that he was the same way was nice. There was not enough people like that in the world.

   "Of course you can. I'm not going away that easy. "

Picnic

Hearing about Scarlet's cousin, Eli frowned and shook his head. "I'm sorry to hear about that. That's rough." For a moment, he thought about his own life, prior to coming here. Living with his girlfriend had gone south as well...he could relate to being in an unhealthy situation. Although at the time, he was probably most of the problem.

"I think that's great that you can help her out. That's what family is for." He gave her shoulders a squeeze. "As long as I still get you to myself from time to time," he teased.


Sitting on the floor in front of his couch, Hunter's arms were draped around Katie as she sat between his legs, leaned back against his chest as they watched the movie. It was one they'd both seen, so it was more about spending the evening together than catching every line. 

"I was thinking about taking my bike up to the lake tomorrow," he tempted her as he rested his head on top of hers. "Wanna play hooky and take a long lunch to have a picnic with me?" He tightened his arms around her. "It would be so much more exciting than work..."


Reese blinked again, and just stared at Nate for a moment. "You...have had contact...with Victoria." He frowned, pursing his lips in thought. "Well...I think you're playing with fire, and I have no reason to trust what that woman says, let alone her intentions." He paused. "But...I've no idea how this could be a setup. There would seem to be no reason to tip us off about this if there was mal-intent." 

His brow furrowed as he continued to think. "I can't lie... I am... disappointed that you didn't tell me about giving Victoria a way to contact you. I guess I consider that fairly important and... I trusted you to be completely honest with me. Now I wonder if there's anything else you haven't -"

"Yeah, what do you need?" Jason came into the office and looked between Reese and Nate. "What's going on?"

Reese let his conversation with Nate go for now and shifted his focus to Jason. "We just got a tip... There's a new threat on your life."

Jason's shoulders dropped. "You're kidding me. Is this some disgruntled guy I helped put away, or the Agency?" 

"It's the Agency. Victoria apparently shared that Garret was killed, so she could protect him. But now they want revenge."

"Well, why me?" Jason crossed his arms in frustration. "I don't get it."

"Does the Agency ever make sense?" Reese shook his head. "You're not to go anywhere without a bodyguard, effective immediately."

Jason rolled his eyes. "Just what I wanted."

"I'm serious, Hotshot. This is a direct order."

"Great. Just great. So what now? I get a shadow that some sniper is just gonna shoot around anyway?"

"It'll be a second set of eyes," Reese reasoned. "Katie was invaluable the last time there was a hit out on you."

"Yeah and that never did get solved."

"Well maybe this time it will, and your skin will be saved in the process. This is not up for debate!"

Jason scowled before looking at Nate. "So your role in this is what?"

"He got the tip," Reese informed. "Now. About a bodyguard. I want Katie -" 

"Oh come on!" Jason threw up his arms. "You know that she and I -"

"Are the best dang team I've got," Reese finished sternly. "She is your shadow until this is over, and you and her will set aside any of your screwed-up personal issues in order to get along as the duo I know you can be. End of discussion." 

Jason gritted his teeth. Already he was imagining the dreaded awkwardness. He and Katie were getting along fine now. They talked at work, and were finally starting to share at least a small kind of friendship again. But to be forced to spend all day every day together... It didn't feel cool at all. "Fine. But what about nights?" There had been a time when he and Katie would have been fine with that too...but not now.

"I'll see who's free, but it will probably end up being Wyatt or Pete, or both. Well see how it all works out. But Katie's your primary bodyguard. I'll inform her in the morning."

Though still upset, Jason shook his head. "No... I'll tell her myself." He sighed. "Is that all?"

"Yeah...for now. But don't go home until you've got one of the guys with you."

"And what if I've got a date?"

Reese quirked an eyebrow. "Do you?"

"Well no..."

A grin toyed at Reese's mouth. "Then do as I ask before I suspend you."

"Right." Jason smirked and threw Nate a look before he left the office.

Reese sighed and turned his attention back to Nate. "Thank you. For the intel, I mean. And I'm sure if Jason were in a better mood, he'd thank you too. Now...any other tidbits of news I should know about?"

Well.....

Looking at Reese still Nate played in his head if he should tell Reese Victoria had helped him or is he should keep that to himself. He wondered what Reese's reaction might be but there was really no telling and Nate new Reese pretty well. If he didn't just tell him from the get go he'd probley be more upset with him than if he would be telling him now.

    "Well...when Victoria left I gave her a burner phone and my number. I told her if she even needed anything to let me know. Garret trusts her, and I trust Garret. I honestly dont think she would do anything to harm him."

Nate new it was risky to do what he did, but he did it anyways. There was was a missing link and Nate felt like that link was Victoria. What was done was done now, and she had called. All he could do was hope that her intel was truth.

   "She called today and filled me in. She also asked not to tell Garret she called. She is going to try and get anything else for us and than call me back. She cared about Garret and would do anything to keep him safe. I just think...she doesn't know how to show it."

Oh yes if Eli hadn't reminded her with everything else going on she would of completely forgot to even mention her excitement to him. Rubbing her nose aganst his and than sitting back a little she lets out a small sigh holding her cup and watching it for a second before looking up again.

   "Work went pretty good, and than I got a call from my younger cousin. Her mom passed away about a year ago and shes never met her dad. Well she's been having some health issues, and she caught her boyfriend cheating on her in there own apartment and its just...not good."

Scarlett's heart really went out to her cousin. She was one of the closest family member she had and to see her in pain hurt Scarlett so much.

   "She thought she could deal with it but than the guy wouldn't leave her alone, he wouldn't move out, and he was just being really bad to her. So she called me and asked me to help her. So needless to say my bike came back on a hitch, as I drove with her in a moving truck and she is staying with me for a while till she can get on her feet. I just feel so bad for her. She really has no one and is dealing with so much."