Black Pepper

Keeping Brian on her hip as she tried to clean grape jelly off the kitchen counter, Laura was interrupted by the ringing phone. Answering it and holding it between her chin and shoulder, she smiled when she heard Nate's voice. "Hey, Babe."

It was almost lunchtime and he hadn't taken anything with him this morning so that's probably why he'd called. She opened the fridge and grabbed the Mayo to make some tuna sandwiches. Hearing about the chicken noodle soup though, she paused, then put the Mayo back. "Oh no... He looked so tired last night, I was worried he was coming down with something. Of course I can make some soup."

She scrunched up her nose and looked in the fridge again before moving to the cupboard. A trip to the store might be in order. Stopping mid-thought though, she set Brian in his high chair to give her arm a break while continuing her conversation with Nate. "If...you were sick... do you think you'd wanna hang around the Elite? I mean..." She bit her lip, not sure why she felt so sorry for Garret. He was a grown man after all, and certainly knew how to take care of himself. But...when he was here...there was just am emptiness in his eye that struck her soul. 

"Why don't you bring him home with you? I'd hate to leave him in Rick's unamused hands. And he seems to... I don't know...find something here he needs. Besides...I think he could use some family time til he's better. Unless you think it's a bad idea. You know him better than I do."

Kirk rolled his eyes but smiled. "Shoulda known you'd choose the option that would make me work the most." He grabbed the eggs and set them by the stove, then came over to the counter where she was sitting. 

Reaching around, he opened the cupboard behind her. "Watch your head, Goofy. Want black pepper in yours?" His arm came up beside her head to reach the spices. "Or maybe we should go with something mild because you're already too wired." 

He ruffled her hair before retreating to the stove and grabbing a frying pan. "Orange juice in the fridge. And grab the green peppers." He smiled big. "Please."

Seeing Ashlee, Travis smiled before finding a seat on a hay bale. "I think I'm starting to feel better. I can actually walk the speed of an old man today."

A kitten wandered over and crawled up Travis' denim pantleg to stare at his face. Grinning, he picked her up to cradle her on his chest and pet her as she purred. "Hey, Cutie," he crooned. 

Looking up at Ashlee, his smile returned. "So...you're up at the crack of dawn huh? Every day?"

Chicken Noodle Soup

Putting his arm around Addy and picking Violet up to rest her on his hip the other boys where close but looking around the ranch with amazement. Looking to Mick he smiles.

   "Abby, this is Mick. He and his wife own the ranch. They are old good friends. Mick this is my wife Abby, this is Violet, that's Colton and James."

He couldn't express how happy his family was there now. He new Chance was keeping them safe but now he could. Where they would go from here he was not sure, but they would take it one moment at a time and they were safe at the moment so that's what was important.

   "So who wants breakfest?"

   "FOOD!!!!"

Violet threw her little arm in the air before shyly pressing her face into Xanders shoulder.

   "I should of known. Lets go and see what we got."

Looking up at someone enters the barn Ashlee smiles seeing it was Travis. She had just finished some morning work that been assigned to her. Walking over to him he looked so much better than the last few days. Though his face was still changing colors from the brusing he looked more away, a little more healthy too.

    "Morning! You are looking better and better every time I see you. How are you feeling this morning? Better?"

Just laying there for a few more moments catching her breath Adison finally pops up off the ground. Standing there for a few long moments listening to what Kirk listed off for breakfast. Hearing the last statement she stops her eyes going wide for a moment before shaking her head. She was so tired she was starting to hear things now.

Backing up a little to get a running start she makes her way to the kitchen. Hitting the door was she forces herself to stop so she goes sliding across the floor and stopping next to Kirk. Looking over his shoulder into the mostly empty fridge and things for a long moment. 

   "I dont know if taking me out like this is a good option and I do like your omelets so....if you don't mind cooking...that sounds like a plan to me."

Going over to the other counter Adison hops up on it and sits there for a long moment letting her feet swing. She had to keep her body moving some how or she herself would never make it into work today. Hopefully though there wouldn't be a mountain of paper work waiting for her. If there was she'd was done for.

Nate laughs and shakes his head at Rick. A harder head than Carson? Was that even possible, he didnt think it was. He felt bad he was sick. Specially if he was not use to it. He should of mad sure he stayed in the morning but even if he had that might not of helped so there was no point dwelling on it.

   "Thanks Rick."

Turning and heading back to his desk for now he'd check on Garret again in a little bit. Picking up his phone he dialed home waiting for Laura to answer as he wrote a few things down on paper.

   "Hey Babe. Just called because one I love you, and two I was wondering if you could make some of your amazing chicken noodle soup you usually make when I am sick."

He falls silent for a moment, but than realizes he'd better explain a little more before she became worried it was him who was sick.

   "Garret came down with the flu, and docs orders he eats better. You are one of the best cooks I know so I thought...maybe...you could help."
 

Flu

It was late morning, coming up on lunchtime, and Rick stood in the hall with Nate outside Garret's room. No one had seen hide nor hair of Garret all morning, until Nate had come to tell him the Brookshire footage had arrived, finding him in a feverish, lethargic state. Rick had immediately checked him over, despite Garret's desire to be left alone.  

"I don't think it's anything to worry about." Rick shrugged at Nate. "I'd say the main culprit is an immune system compromised by Agency drugs. Top that with exhaustion, bad eating habits, spending hours in a cold rain, and what I'd guess is a dose of depression. It's gonna take a few days at least to pull out of this one, but it shouldn't require more than your over-the-counter flu medicine. As far as the lifestyle and emotional aspects, that I can't help with."

He tucked his hands in his lab jacket pockets. "I did take a blood sample just in case but I'm not expecting signs of anything but a virus. Hard part now will be getting him to rest and eat properly so his body can fight. I dare say he's got a harder head than Carson ever did."


In his bed, Garret could hear a muffled conversation but was too tired to try and figure it out. Just getting up to go to the infirmary and back had been difficult, and he'd complained, but he was too weak to fight off Rick's poking and prodding. It wasn't fun - feeling too lousy to function - but apparently he was just going to have to let it work itself out. He wasn't used to being sick - other than from coming down off drugs or fighting infections from wounds. But maybe his misery was less about being sick and more about his emotional state, and he just couldn't figure that one out. 


"Gah!" Kirk's eyes went wide as Adison scampered over on all fours, stopping short before landing on his face. "What have I created?!" Hearing they were done though, he breathed a sigh of relief. "Oh thank heavens."

Just lying still a few moments he knew remaining here was dangerous - he'd fall asleep and not wake up til the afternoon for sure. He turned his head to look over at Adison. "The Barnes won't kill us because he'll never know."

Standing quickly before he could change his mind, he stretched tall and yawned. "Okay. Here we go." He stepped over Adison, but not without letting one foot come down lightly on her stomach, just to make her flinch. "How about breakfast?"

He went to the kitchen and peered in the open fridge door. "I got eggs," he called over his shoulder. "Bacon... I can make omelets." He ran a hand through his long hair. "Um...toast. Or I can take you out to eat."


Standing on the porch just watching the little scene, Mick couldn't help his smile. How obvious it was to see how much Xander loved his family, and how much they loved him. Despite current circumstances, a little sunshine had broken through. 

Chance shook his head at Xander. "No worries. I'm just glad everyone is safe." Leaving him be with Abby for now, he wandered closer to Mick. "We were followed a bit of the way when we left California." Abby and the kids were unaware of a run-in with a guy at a rest stop. Chance had come away unscathed - the other guy...would probably need to see an oral surgeon. "No problems since, though," he continued, "and I just got word about an hour ago that the Agency isnt planning a strike on this place any time soon. So you all can at least knock the high alert down a couple notches."

Mick frowned. "How can you be sure?"

"Trusted sources." Chance grinned. "That's all I can say. But the fact is, it would take too many Agency resources to attack all you here at the ranch right now. They want you, but it's a bad business move. For now. So enjoy the time you've got."

Mick wasn't so sure he believed him, but Chance was with the Elite so...he was trustworthy, right? "Thank you. What now?"

"Well, Xander's next move is up to him, altho staying here is the best choice for now so his family won't be vulnerable out in the open. Me, I've got a contact picking me up to go get my car and I'll be headed back to Nevada. Home sweet home."


Travis pulled on a clean shirt and tucked it into his jeans. He was feeling a little improvement this morning since he actually felt like getting out of bed. The commotion outside had caught his attention, so he figured he might as well get up and see if there would be anything for breakfast. 

He pulled the curtain aside with a finger to see out the window at what was going on. He had a few puzzle pieces but not enough to really understand what was happening. People were smiling though, so it must be a good thing. 

After pulling on his boots, he went outside and still a bit slow, aimed for the barns first. Not that he'd find breakfast there, but maybe he'd find a familiar face so he wouldn't have to walk into the main house alone. It was still just a bit awkward. 

Greatful

Looking around at the piles Adison mulls over Kirk's question. Seeing a paper on the far side of the room she perks up. Coffee, Sugar, and no sleep....what a deadly combo. 

   "Whats this...what this...there is magic in the air..."

The nightmare before chirstmas theme just popped in her head as she scurried over to grab the paper and than crawl back to Kirk leaning over him.

    "Whats this....I can't believe my eyes Jack this isn't fair..."

Leaning in closer coming within inches of him.

   "WHAT...IS....THIS?"

Quickly putting the paper between there faces she goes cross eyes looking at what was written on it.

   "Oh...thats just the reminder I wrote that the boss is going to kill us."

Sitting back she flops on the ground looking up at the spinning fan. Letting out a long sigh she didn't know how she was going to function today. No matter though this had been fun.

   "I think we got everyone...now its out of our hands."

 Hearing he had vistors Xander stands quickly already knowing who it was. He couldn't help the smile that spread across her lips. Coming out the door he stood at the bottom of the steps, Just waiting. 

With in minutes three young children were running twords him arms spread wide.

   "DADDY!!! We missed you."

Wrapping his arms around all three of the kids Xander laughs. Ruffling the two boys hair and giving a kiss to his daughter four head.

   "I missed you guys too, more than anything."

Seeing Abby come twords him with a smile his own smile grew even more as he straightened. Reaching his hand out he ran his finger down the side of his wifes face before cradling it. A tear ran down his cheek as he pulled her in to kiss her, and than put her into a tight embrace. Oh how he loved her, and had missed her. 

Looking to Chance he smiles and gives a nod. He'd kept his word and was forever greatful. 

   "Thank you...for all you have done for my family. "

Not Well

Nate's firm tone surprised Garret a bit, and he raised an eyebrow at how emphatic he was. How was it that friendship felt so complicated and unwanted to Garret, yet to Nate, it was what kept him alive? It didn't seem like it should be something that would mean two completely opposite things to two people. Was there a right or wrong? If there was, did that mean Garret was wrong? Or right?

The invitation to stay brought Garret's mind back into focus and he looked at Nate in disbelief. After all this. The whole day, and then supper, and then this conversation and he still invited Garret to spend the night? In his family's house? Without lock and key? His trust was utterly astounding. Garret would never trust himself in a situation like this. Yet here Nate was, taking things one step further like usual.

He wasn't sure how to respond, when he suddenly realized Laura had appeared beside the couch, holding a pillow and blanket. She'd been listening.

Garret looked up at her, doubly surprised she supported her husband's offer. And for a few awkward moments, he really didn't know what to say. He didn't want to stay here. No. Why should he? It was weird enough the way it was, with Nate trying to be friends and all that. His eyes came back to Nate. "Okay."

It only took a few minutes before, Nate had gotten Maggie up and off to her room, he and Laura had gone to bed after making sure Garret knew where everything was, and the living room was dark and quiet. And Garret was asleep almost before his head hit the pillow.

Upstairs, Laura tucked her arm around Nate and rested her head on his chest. "You're a good man, Nate," she whispered. "Don't ever stop caring about people... It's what I love most about you."


...Early morning. The sun was barely peeking over the horizon. Grey light seeped in around the curtains, creating shadows in the empty living room. The blanket was folded neatly, stacked with the pillow on the couch. In the laundry room, the borrowed clothes had been laid on the washer. All of Garret's things had been picked up from the bathroom. No evidence remained that he'd even been there.

His boots crunched on the road's gravel shoulder as he walked back towards the Elite. At least it wasn't raining, and the chilly breeze had subsided from the day before. But he was still cold. Keeping his hands in his pockets, he lowered his head, trying to conserve heat as he walked. It wasn't that cold out though - he knew it was just him. He had slept like a rock all night - better than he had in literally months - but upon waking, he knew he wasn't well. Chilled and achy, all he'd wanted to do was stay put. But he couldn't. He wasn't ready to experience the morning family dynamics. It was better that he was gone before anyone else woke up and they could go about their day like normal.

With a steady pace, it really didn't take all that long to arrive back to the Elite. By now the sun had risen and it was getting warmer, but he didn't feel it. And by the time he walked through the door, he regretted having come on foot. His chill had worsened. Thankfully, no one was there yet to question where he'd been, and he aimed straight for his room and closed the door.

Slipping off his boots and throwing his cap and jacket in a chair, he sank down on the bed to curl up on his side. His head was now pounding, and he shivered even when he pulled the blanket up. His skin felt hot, but he was so cold. With his back to the door, he drifted to sleep, not even able to fight any more. And in his room is where he would remain, oblivious to anything else going on in the building, and not particularly caring either.


Kirk just grinned at Adison's defense over the last time they'd had too little sleep. She'd always blame him, and he'd always blame her. That's just the way it was. 

"Okay. Great." He shoved the rest of the pizza slice in his mouth - which was too big - and had to chew for several seconds before being able to speak again. "Those," he mumbled, pointing to the pages she held. "Here." He patted an empty spot on the table and sat in his chair, knowing she'd take the one next to him. Grabbing his glasses, he still squinted at his computer screen. "Here we go. Who do we have first?" 

One at a time, he had Adison read off names and any notes he'd already taken as he typed out an official report on each one. Some were easy, like Susanne - she was loyal and did her job by the book. Jamie was the same, with the only concern being her history of abduction and torture by none other than Carson himself. There were many pauses during Kirk's typing as he hashed through these topics with Adison, or simply had to express his amazement that these people hadn't all killed each other. Sapphire had been an easy case until the subject of Gage, but he had to stick to his main focus, that she was a good agent. Nate. Strong, loyal, and a good record of getting his job done. The only issue there was his recent involvement with Garret. 

One by one, names were checked off the list. A pot of coffee was made...and was drunk. A run to the all-night convenient store brought back munchies and more pop. Rick, Dalton, Scott, Hope. There was so little bad to say about each of their characters - it was only when it came to protocol that Kirk had to word things very carefully, making sure Adison agreed he wasn't being too bias one way or the other. 

Misty. Wyatt. Pete. Gunner - he was the loosest cannon of the entire bunch, and with his history, he was one of Kirk's main concerns, and he couldn't hide it on paper. In his opinion, Gunner was even a higher risk than Scott because he chose to act out rather than it being a condition as he labeled Scott's case. 

Angelica. Carson. Ty. Hal. What could be said? They were just as bent on justice as anyone else. Little could be said about Simon or Chance since they were offsite, and Xander had to be talked about carefully until his family was safe, but it would seem he'd played a big part in providing intel against the Agency. 

Jason and Katie? That report took a while to write, and required some extra pacing, gesturing and an additional cup of coffee. And in the end, Kirk skirted around the entire questionable incidents and focused on how great a team the two were and all the good they had accomplished. He had to write in that both seemed young and perhaps would benefit from some official law enforcement training. Jason's past bothered him, and he had to mention that, as did Katie's past and her own record. It was a long time ago, but Kirk knew Barnes would bring it up so he might as well put it in his report so it wouldn't look like he was avoiding the negative aspects. 

And then...Reese himself. Another tough one. So much history. So many mistakes. So many triumphs. After listing all of Kirk's honest concerns, he had to write just as many compliments on Reese's integrity, dedication to protect the community, determination to bring down the Agency, and his honesty even when the Elite had to become public. He had worked with law enforcement ever since then, never refusing to cooperate, which would help his current case a lot. 

The morning sunlight shone through the large living room window. Kirk was sprawled on his back on the floor, his head between his hands, his face contorted as he tried to think straight. "Is that all of them? Please tell me we got through all the files." 


The sky was still grey in Texas when a loud car horn broke the morning peacefulness. Already on high alert, it didn't help nerves any, especially when a moving van and car pulled up to he main house since the gate was supposed to have been closed with a padlock at the end of the driveway. Though chores weren't started yet, many were already up and moving, including Mick, who met the stranger at the porch, shotgun in hand. 

Chance swung down out of the moving truck and held up both hands. "Whoa there, mate, it's just the family arriving."

Mick glanced to the car. Sure enough, he saw a woman and children. It had to be Xander's family. He lowered his gun, but only a little. "How'd you get in here?"

"Oh." Chance pointed to his pocket, and getting a nod of approval, drew out a pocket knife. "Picked the lock. Sorry. Old habits." 

Mick smirked. He didn't know much about Chance, but from what he'd heard, this guy fit the description. He finally relaxed, and turned to stick his head back inside where the scent of coffee wafted out. "Xander!" he called. "You got visitors." 

All Night Show

   "It's not just about you Garret! You can not want friendship all you want, and I can understand now why, but its not just what you want. Its what others around you want too. To me, to Maggie, you are our friend. I know it goes against everything you have learned in the Agency, and everything you know, but there are days friendship is the only thing that holds me together."

Relaxing a little more Nate watches as Maggie shifts again and takes Garret's hand in her own and pulls it close, tucking it under her cheek. He always wondered what went on inside his sisters head. What did she think about, what did she dream about. She saw the world much different than most people. Maybe it was for that fact alone that drew her to Garret. She was an outcase too. Maybe for a different reason, maybe different outcomes, but she was.

   "You look exhausted. How about instead of walking back to the Elite in the rain, I move that sack of potatoes in your lap, and you can have the couch to rest on for the night. Not sure if its more comfortable than the Elite bed, but its a warm place to rest."

Adison can't help the rolling laughter that came out of her. That had been quite the night and not many people were happy with them. But it had been fun, at least to her it was. That twinkle in Kirk's eye told her he had though so too. Giving a slap to his arm she takes another sip of her coke.

   "Me!!!! I was good at 2 pots of coffee, but than you had to go and make another and pull out your stash of candy. You know what caffeine and sugar does to me. I don;t think I've ever crashed so hard in my life."

Setting her now half empty can down Adison finished off the crust of the pizza taking one more bit and making sure to get the pepperoni. Tossing the rest of the slice back in the box. She couldnt eat another bite or she would pop. At least now anyways. 

Standing she moves around the paperwork to find the "A" files. Bending down and picking it up and holds it for a long moment before looking back to Kirk. She new nothing about these people but knowing Kirk she would very soon.

   "Alright...time is ticking. Lets get those all night show on the road."



 

Friends

"She just hasn't figured out yet she made friends with a rattlesnake." Garret spoke before thinking. His mind continued to mull over Nate's words though as his eyes remained glued to the ceiling. Why did Nate want to be his friend? What was the point? Friendships made people weak. Friendships just caused pain. Without hardly realizing it, he'd opened his mouth to talk. Maybe it was simply because he was too tired right not to fight it. 

"Aside from Victoria, I only ever had one person I'd call a friend," he recalled softly. "We were young teens being trained in the Agency, and...they executed him." It was the first time he'd said that out loud, and it hurt a lot more than he anticipated, leaving him quiet again for several long moments. "He'd tried to escape and they caught him. I learned two things that day. One, making friends is pointless. And two, you can't ever escape. At...fourteen...I decided never to make a friend again. So I didn't." 

If Maggie hadn't been sound asleep under his arm, he would have gotten up to physically escape the room. But as it was, he couldn't move. In spite of trying to hide his discomfort, his jaw muscles visibly worked on his tension. "I told you once before I didn't come here to make friends...and I don't know why you insist on trying to make that happen. I'm only here because making allies is good business when you're trying to stay alive." If that were true, why did he have Maggie tucked in close beside him? He wasn't even making sense to himself anymore. Was he going mad? 

"As far as using the computer earlier..." He bit his tongue as once again he hadn't intended on responding, but it was too late now. "Forget it. I won't do it again without permission. I was just trying something that failed and I was upset with myself, not you." There. Close enough. Sort of. Maybe it would at least get Nate to shut up about it. He didn't want to admit what had really happened inside of him earlier today. 

A rattling pan from the kitchen where Laura was washing dishes made him jump slightly, also making him realize he'd just allowed his eyes to close. Why was he so tired? He wasn't being careful, and that was not smart at all. He just felt so lethargic, that it was hard to concentrate and he feared he might talk too much...reveal too much about himself. Nate might be ready for that, but he was not.



Kirk's eyes widened. "I thought we agreed never to speak of that again!" He slapped a hand to his forehead. "I will never forget the look on Barnes' face when we walked in, sleep-deprived and way-over caffeinated because you thought that would be a good way to stay awake for that trial. I was so strung out by the afternoon, you had to help me up these stairs so I could actually go to bed." 

He rolled his eyes and grabbed the last slice of pizza to finish it off. "You really wanna do this? Tonight? If you do, start picking up this mess in alphabetical order and we're going to go through each one, one at a time, write up their personal report and move on to the next until they're all done. Then I'll have to develop my final, overall report." 

Standing up, a pepperoni slid off his pizza and he caught it mid-air, followed by a silly grin. "I still go it." 

Failed you

Just watching again for a long moment Nate though about many things that had gone on in the day. From Garret helping, to His mood change, to him being here and now. Everything with Garret confused him, maybe because he really didn't know him all that well and yet there was still that need, that want to help and be there.

   "Pft, I am not even close to a replacement for Justin. Just a friend letting you know I am here if you even need him. No matter how cranky you get."

Taking another long sip of his tea Nate's heart really did hurt for Garret. How things where different from what he was use to. How his ideas on how things worked had been screwed. Almost like going to a new country, and having an idea on how the culture worked from movies you had seen.  But when you get there it was the complete opposite. 

   "Your not foolish, and don't ever lose those grand ideas. Things just run differently than intended. You stepped into a world you new nothing about, No body can blame you for how you are feeling because of it. Things might not be happening at the speed you want them too but they are happening."

Slowly but surly Garret was changing, and so were the people around him. Trusting him more, getting use to him be there, he had his own room too. It might not be what he expected, or wanted but it was step up from a cell.

   "You helped me today at Brookshire, and I was so thankful. If you hadn't we never would of seen that woman, and we never would be on the path we are now."

Nate thinks again for a second. Garret had gotten so upset with him before he wondered if bringing it up again was such a good idea. 

   "I wasn't upset with you earlier about he whole computer thing and I'm not your babysitter not even in the least. I do want to help keep you on the right path, and continue to keep you out of prison. But I can't do that if I dont know whats going on. I was put in charge of that and I take it very seriously. Not just because its a job, but because weather you like it or not you have a friend. You have more than one friend actually...and I think she'd be pretty upset if I failed you."

Grabbing another slice of pizza and taking a bite She chews thoughtfully. What a mess, this whole thing and what a toll it was having on Kirk. Soon it would be over though, and what happened happened, she just hope he didnt blame himself whatever it might be.

   "How about finding more good than bad? Maybe in your report don't lie, but talk about about the good."

Flipping the pizza around and eating the crust before the rest of the pizza Adison thinks once again. Hearing the thought of all nighters she perks up a little and makes her eyes go wide looking at Kirk.

   "Do you remember what happened LAST time we pulled all nighters..."

Her words linger in the air....

   "Lets do it again....tell me what to do and I'll do it."

All-nighters

Ignoring the wack to his head, Kirk just kept talking until Adison slid down next to him. Letting her have her turn, he just listened, genuinely appreciating her insights. As someone outside the case itself, she had a different perspective, and he needed that. She was right - where would these people be without being a part of the Elite? But what about rules? Protocol? But was it worth destroying their world as Adison was implying? 

"Better..." The wheels in Kirk's mind sped up. "Yes...better," he mumbled. Getting to his feet, he almost tripped over some of the papers, but managed to tiptoe around them to get to his table where he bent to use his laptop, talking as he typed. "The Elite is a self-sufficient living organism, comprised of self-taught agents with abilities and dedication, in some instances, surpassing even that of the FBI." He paused and looked over his shoulder, but kept typing. "To dismantle such an organization would be equal to destroying a well-oiled machine whose purpose is not yet finished. But to come alongside in order to help make better what is already established would be to the benefit of the Elite, the FBI and the civilian community whom the Elite has worked so hard to protect." 

Straightening up, he turned back to stare at what he'd just typed. It was all true. Despite the flimsy structure and vigilante ways of the Elite, his true feeling was to not force them to close. He stroked his short beard in thought. "How the heck am I going to combat all the negative evidence though?"

Wandering back to his spot, he lowered himself down next to Adison again and finished off his pop. "I can't lie. I think my final statement outweighs the negative aspects. But I know good and well Barnes won't agree." Their superior was beyond strict when it came to doing things by the book. "I can't not include the information I've learned - that would be just as bad." He groaned. "At most, they'll shut down the Elite. At the very least, they'll tighten the reins. But you tighten them too much, and things come to a standstill, which is counter-productive." 

He turned to shove his face into her shoulder. "Why me?" he mumbled. It took him a moment, but he finally straightened again to stare at all his paperwork. "Okay. Not my call whether or not the Elite survives. I'm just to present facts both good and bad and let Barnes take it from there." He nodded, although on the inside, he still felt as if he held the future in his hands. It all hinged on the perspective of his report and what he might recommend. 

"I...think I'm gonna be pulling some all-nighters to wrap this up," he mused. He glanced to the pizza box and propped it open with a toe. "Two pieces left. You gonna help me finish it or what? I gotta keep you fed so you don't go telling anyone I shared all this with you."


Done eating and just trying to decide if he should go ahead and leave, Garret was yet again surprised by Maggie. It was one thing to have her grab his hand or be excited to see him. It was quite another for her trust him and be comfortable enough to get this close - and even fall asleep without concern. 

Garret propped his feet up on the coffee table as he listened to Nate, although his eyes didn't look at him yet. "You Justin's replacement?" he questioned softly but with just a bit of sarcasm. Talking was not his strong suit, especially when it came to himself or his own inner issues. 

As Maggie shifted into him more, he automatically lifted his arm to drape it around her. He wasn't sure why. A part of him would just as soon she not get this attached - this was rather awkward to say the least. But a part of him...liked it, too. Why this girl's affection had such an effect on him, he'd never know. He looked down at her sleeping form before leaning his own head back on the couch and closing his eyes. He, himself, was exhausted. He shouldn't be this tired yet, but he felt as if he'd been awake for days without sleep. He had to stay awake though. He had to leave soon. Go back to the Elite. To his own room. Get out of people's hair and stay where he belonged. 

"You don't want to hear my venting," he finally answered Nate quietly so as not to wake Maggie. He opened his eyes to stare at the ceiling. "I came to the Elite with grand ideas. I was foolish. And that pretty much sums up my life at this point. There's really not a whole lot more to say." Actually, there was. He'd been unreasonably upset earlier today and he had yet to deal with it. It would just come back again. But how could he admit aloud what he knew to be true deep down? 

Better?

Popping the top on the nod Adison nods in thanks before taking a long sip. Letting the cold bubbly liquid make its way down her throat. Listening to Kirk start to ramble once again the wheels in her own head started to turn as she thought about everything.

As Kirk almost hits her several times with his flailing arms Adison wacks him in the back of his head before reaching around the other side of him and grabbing his half eaten slice of pizza and taking a bite. 

   "Not everyone can function like us."

Slipping down on the ground next to Kirk she takes some of the papers he was holding and looks them over. Trying to take in all the information, about everyone. It seemed they all had there quirks, issues and problems. 

   "Seems like you found a group of Misfits who had found there place in the world. Where would Scott be without the Elite?"

Adison puts down the information of Scott in front of Kirk.

   "Where would either Giant fit in the world?"

Another file, Con and Dalton places in front of him.

   "Gage, Carson...though they back slide now and again...they have come a long way. If not for the Elite they would still be in the Agency."

More files.

Turning slightly to look at Kirk she searches his face for a long moment again before talking. Looking across the room she takes another bit of pizza thinking. 

   "If it wasn't for the Elite these people, they wouldn't exists. So I guess the next question is...do we want to destroy there world, there life.. just because they are different. or do we want to make it better?"

Once showered and having the PJ's on Maggie made her way back into the living room where Nate and Garret sat. Seeing a little room next to Garret Maggie did her best to squeeze next to him. With her small frame it was easy for her to do and even if it was uncomfortable she didn't mind.

Leaning her head on Garret's arm She didn't say anything and soon as the time drifted on thumb in her mouth, she was fast asleep. 

Watching his sister and Garret Nate smiles. He really liked seeing them interact. His sister was so shy, and yet there was just something that drew her to Garret.

   "She really likes you Garret. Maggie might be different from most, but she sure is smart and observant. It amazes me every day the things she comes up with doing."

Taking a sip of his hot tea Laura had brought him Nate is quiet again just watching, and mulling over everything that had happened today. Garret's mood had changed so fast it really did have Nate worried. Not because he was scared of what Garret might do, but just for Garret in general. He new this was all so different to him, Everything.

   "You do know you can always talk to me about anything right? Even if its about something I might not agree with I will always listen. Even if you just need someone to vent too."

Nate laughs as Maggie shifts a little in her sleep to put her head on his chest and get a little more comfortable. 

    "Maggie is always here for cuddles too if you are feeling down."


 

Family

"Nice this time? Are you implying I haven't been nice?" Kirk chewed on his pizza crust, knowing good and well that Adison knew his style. Break them down to get to the nitty gritty, then come back with a reward to make peace. It usually worked. With people who deserved to be interrogated. Unfortunately, it felt like no one at the Elite really deserved it.

Stepping back over piles of papers, he retrieved his pop can and took a swing as he wandered to the kitchen. "Super heroes, huh? Maybe you're on to something." He returned with a full can of coke and handed it to her. "Maybe we'll crack the secret of the century. The Elite is really full of super heroes destined to save our city." He rolled his eyes and flopped down on the floor in front of the chair where she sat. 

"Did you know that place is full of relatives and relationships? Talk about distractions." He pointed to a couple small stacks that were a couple feet away. "Sapphire and Scott. Twins. Sapphire also dates an ex-agency guy. Misty and Carson. Married but separated. Altho he's only around part time, currently investigating the death of his brother." He held up a finger. "You guessed it - his brother was ex-agency too. Then there's Katie and Jason whose story I can't figure out other than they've been on again off again like fifty times. Then there's Reese himself and Angelica the lawyer. Recently married. Go figure. Oh and Wyatt - he's Reese's own son. Did I mention Misty is Reese's niece?"

He grabbed another slice of pizza, licking some grease off his finger before picking up a paper on Jamie. "Haven't talked to her yet. Don't need to - she's straight. Guess who she's married to? Ex-Elite this time - a mostly deaf giant who may be making a comeback. And speaking of giants..." He paused to wince as his fast soda pop drinking earned him a painful belch. "...Dalton, best friend of Scott? He's engaged to no other than Carson's baby sister."

The more he talked, the more animated he got, the more he gestured, the closer his hand got to whacking Adison in the head. He took another bite of pizza and talked while chewing. "Oh and I failed to mention Jason is the grandson of one of the founders of the Elite - who, by the way, is currently MIA. Katie is related to this batch of people in Texas where supposedly the whole Agency thing started in the first place. Did I tell you she was once engaged to Scott? Yeah. Not sure what happened there, but apparently after he was abducted and thought to be dead, he fell for his counselor - none other than Hope, who," he pointed to a page close by, "yes, now works for the Elite as well, but Scott's so messed up he can't handle any kind of relationship."

Kirk grabbed a napkin before some sauce dribbled on some papers. It might not look like it, but he was very particular about keeping his files neat. "There's even a dog! Two if you count Scott's fuzzball that helps keep him calm. Giants, bad guys, evil crime lords...maybe some super heroes wouldn't be so surprising after all."

Sighing, he gazed across his work. Over on a table was his open laptop where so far he'd typed up three pages as a start to his report. "How do I even write this report? It's a madhouse over there, but they really are like one big family who need and depend on each other."

Super

Recoiling from the shove Adison laughs. It wasn't her fault she was quiet and he startled easy specially when he was working. Hearing about the pizza Adison dosnt make Kirk ask twice.

   "Ooooo pizza..."


Going over and scooping up a slice Adison flops herself down in an over sized and old arm chair. She was thankful after all these years Kirk hasn't throw it out. It was her favorite place to sit. Danging her feet over the armrest she kicks off her shoes before taking a bit of pizza.

   "Mmmm....best....pizza....ever."

Taking another bite and letting the cheese stretch Adison listens to Kirk at the same time as he babbled. She understood where the problem with Katie and Jason lied. It all sounded so cobfusing anf didn't quite add up.

   "Maybe they have super powers and you know all that can't be documented...no one would believe it and just think they are crazy."

Shifting in the chair it made a loud crinkle noise as she picked up some pictures. Two smiling faces looked at her. She guessed it was Katie and Jason. They looked cute together and there eyes held much. Some happy, some sad things.

   "Why don't you just ask them about it? Maybe being nice this time?"

Heart Attack

Still feeling a bit lame, Garret just stood and waited. Being introduced to the littlest one of the family was a bit of a surprise. Not that he wanted to get close, but if he did, he feared Laura would change her mind about letting him stay. He did look down at the bright eyes though, and couldn't help but think the child was in a good place. He'd grow up in a loving home with a loving aunt and two loving parents. He'd have all the attention, and all the -

Garret's thoughts halted as Nate returned. Accepting the clothes, he wasn't sure what to say. He kept thinking he'd experienced the extent of these crazy people's weird kindness, but then more just kept coming. He almost wondered if he was in some sort of strange dream. "Um...no... I haven't eaten, but that's okay. I know I came late." Turning, he headed to the bathroom. Halfway there, Laura met him with a couple towels. 

"Here you go. Just leave your wet stuff on the floor - I'll throw them in the dryer so by the time you leave you'll be set." 

"I..." Garret blinked.

"Yes. Go." Laura pointed. "And be quick about it before you make even more puddles." 

"Well, but."

"Go!" Laura set her hands on her hips. "Or do I need to hold your hand?"

Garret cocked his head, baffled by her bravery. "You're not...afraid."

"Of you? Why should I be?"

"Hasn't Nate..."

"I know all there is to know, Garret. Go get changed and I'll warm up some supper for you." She didn't give him time to argue, and aimed for the kitchen. "And don't worry," she continued as she walked, "I won't dry anything I'm not supposed to. But if you need to empty your pockets, leave your stuff on the bathroom counter." 

Realizing it was a losing battle to try and resist, Garret finally did as he was told. The clothes fit well enough for their purpose, although he did have to roll up the jeans pantlegs. He didn't like just leaving his stuff for Laura to have to take care of, but she'd told him to, so...he did. 

Getting the leftovers from the fridge, Laura set to work warming it up. No, she wasn't afraid of Garret. Leery maybe. But not afraid. Even after the little fiasco during his last visit. She was starting to see what Nate saw, and there was definitely a man in need - even if it was underneath some very thick scars. Tonight especially, she felt something almost broken in him. Something that compelled her to extend even more graciousness.

It was only a few minutes later that he was seated cross-legged on the couch in the living room with a plate full of hot food which tasted...very good. He hadn't been in this room before, so his eyes roamed the array of family photos and faith-based knick-knacks. It was...warm. Just like everything else. Confusing, but warm. 

Keeping his eyes down as he ate, it felt even more strange than before, since he was the only one eating. He'd survived countless dress balls, but when it came to someone's personal home like this, he had very little experience. So he remained quiet...quieter even than normal. His eyes dimmer than normal.


Feeling someone put their arm around his shoulders, Kirk gave a lurch. One hand snaked behind Adison's neck, while the other recoiled to strike - but thankfully he realized who it was before actually throwing a move. "Geez Louise!" He relaxed and put a hand to his chest. "Stop sneaking up on me! Yes, that's the giant, but now that you effectively gave me a heart attack, it really doesn't matter anymore." 

He gave her arm a playful shove before thumbing behind him. "Make yourself useful and eat some pizza so I don't gorge myself and call in tomorrow 'cause I'm hung over the toilet." He resumed his study of his notes, not minding that he was no longer alone. An extra set of eyes might be nice, and Adison was the only one who didn't bug the tar out of him when he worked on things like this. They organized differently but she never tried to change his methods and he never tried to change hers. 

Folding his arms, he sighed as his eyes returned to a collage of notes and pictures about Jason and Katie. "Jason Stevenson," he mused aloud. "Key player in the Elite for the past few years, since before he even graduated high school. Then Katie Pent got in the picture. Do you know how many unfinished reports there are involving cases they handled? Most of the Elite keeps pretty good records, I have to admit. But there's like this gap in time where any cases with these two, the facts just somehow got lost. Bad guys were taken down but it doesn't say how. Frequent medical leaves for both of them. Handling cases just the two of them, but doing as much damage as a whole team. It doesn't add up and I don't know why." 

He wandered back over to a partially eaten slice of pizza and picked it up to take another bite before returning the the wall, carefully stepping over the papers on the floor. "It just feels weird. And there's a whole computer file dedicated to medical records for the entire Elite staff, but when it comes to Jason and Katie, their information is so sparse, you'd think they were in perfect health. Then why so much medical leave?" He shook his head. "My gut says to leave it alone, but my job says dig deeper. And that's just one small part of this whole thing." He gestured to the floor. "I have two more days. That's it. But I feel like I need two months."


For once, it was Eric who needed the hug, and he appreciated Stacy's assurance. He knew things would be okay. They would always work out one way or the other. They had each other, and God wouldn't let them down now. He chuckled and pulled back to see her face. "Having you on watch totally puts my mind at ease."

Pulling her in again, he kissed her more passionately on the lips this time, just letting it linger for several moments. "I gotta get back to the girls," he whispered. "Can we pick this up again soon?"

Sucker

Turning and looking at Garret slightly Nate looks back to Laura and smiles. She was always so good, at almost everything it always amazed him. Looking to Maggie and nodding for her to come here he hands Bryan to her before standing himself.

   "You watch Bryan while I go get Garret some clean clothing."

Maggie couldn't help the smile that grew on her face as the baby was placed in her arms. She loved her little nephew more than anything in the world. 

Once Nate was gone from the room Maggie walked over to Garret with Bryan and smile. Than looking at Garret again she smiled a little more.

   "Bryan, this is my friend Garret, Garret this is my nephew Bryan."

Coming back into the room a little bit later Nate had a shirt, some pants, and socks for Garret. Holding them out to him. With his other hands he ruffles Maggie's hair as she goes to sit done with the baby. 

   "Here ya go. These should fit you I think. At least they will be dry and you can attempt to not get a cold."

Nate nods down the hallway. It would probably be helpful if Garret new where to change at.

   "If you go down this hall here, and take a left the bathroom is the first room on the right. You can change there. Also have you eaten yet? We have some left overs. Laura always cooks for an army.  I wont complain though that means I get to bring food to work with me."

Hearing the loud music Adison new knocking would be no use. Pulling her keys out she unlocked the door and stepping side. Just following the sounds to the room he was in she stepped in herself  and couldn't help her eyes went wide as she continued to suck on the sucker she had in her mouth. The room was a mess with papers, but she new good and well they all meant something, and were all right where Kirk wanted them.

Stepping over the papers and coming up behind Kirk, Adison puts her arm over his shoulder and looks at the same wall he was looking at. Taking the sucker out of her mouth for a moment she points it at Dalton's name. 

   "So is this the giant that threatened to beat your face in for messing with Scott?"

 Adison new and well she would probably scare the crap out of him but she did it anyways on ready in case he took a swing at her. She's duck, he's feel bad, it had happened before...quite a few times. She had a good habit of sneaking up on him without even meaning too.

Stacy's eyes softened as she looked at Eric. She could understand where he was coming from with the Agency attack. He had a lot to lose, and so did she. Even if she didn't say anything it had unnerved her too. The only thing that relaxed her was knowing she was on guard, and so were a few others to help.

   "Oh Eric...I'm ok...we are all ok."

Taking Eric into a hug She holds him for a long moment. Just holds him reassuring that she is ok and he had just had a dream.

   "From what everyone says we should be ok for now. I dont really understand it all, but I trust what Con said before he left. Not to mention, I'm on watch...what more could you ask for?" 

Helpless

Even though he'd prepared for Maggie's enthusiasm, Garret was still taken somewhat aback by her energetic greeting. A little smile came to his lips though, despite his depressed state. "Eh..." he shrugged. "I guess I'm just a slow walker."

He followed her inside and hearing Nate's voice, cautiously walked to the welcoming doorway of the living room. He stopped at the carpet's edges though and looked down as his soaked clothes dripped all over the tiled hallway floor. "I think I better stay out here...before I ruin any floors." He glanced at Nate and Laura then back at Maggie. He felt like he was intruding. He shouldn't have come. He just should have gone back to the Elite. 

He shivered as a chill ran through him, then shook his head. "I probably shouldn't stick around with the state I'm in."

Laura glanced at Nate and cocked her head. Garret's character was such an oxymoron. He was a ruthless killer, but was worried about the rugs. Getting up from the couch, she headed out the other way towards the bathroom. "Take off your boots," she called over her shoulder. "I'll bring some towels. Nate, do you have any clothes he could borrow?"

Garret stood helplessly and blinked. Why would Laura go to all that effort? He'd only stay a short while anyway. He glanced to Maggie, then Nate, not even sure what to do at this point. 


Kirk just laughed and nodded. Adison was worth far more than even a quarter, and he'd tell anyone she was the best listener around. "Well, I won't keep you from stopping by. But if you do, you'll have to earn your food by helping me work."

...It was mid-evening and Kirk had changed into jeans and an old tshirt. He was sitting on his apartment's living room floor, a half can of coke on one side and an open pizza box on the other that still held three-quarters of a pepperoni pizza. Small stacks of paper were spread around him in a large circle, organized by names or topics. 

"Evaluate the Elite as a whole and its agents individually," the chief had said. "Scrutinize everything and everyone until you know the workings in and out, and can give me an accurate assessment."


Kirk sighed. He had sticky notes on each stack of paper with names. Dalton. He wouldn't be going there. Scott. Been there, done that, and evidence-wise, it wasn't good. Misty. Ah yes. Done, but without a real conclusion. Reese. Unfinished. Nate. Half finished. Sapphire. Done with a fair result. Jason and Katie. He'd put both of them in the same stack because their files seemed incredibly intertwined...but with a strangeness he wasn't sure he even wanted to tackle - something was there and he could feel it, but it was almost...scary. 

Other names hadn't been gone through yet. And as a whole? It was just as messed up as his explanation to Adison. Standing up, he padded to his wall to pull down a chart he'd been working on, that mapped out the Elite and a bunch of unanswered questions. Folding his arms he just stared at it, supper forgotten, and the loud music drowning out any outside traffic noise. 


Leaning his face in to Stacy's pal, Eric closed his eyes but nodded. "Yeah... I just...dozed off and had a nightmare."

He opened his eyes to look at her again before kissing her lips. "I had to find you to prove it was just a dream. Kinda unsettling though," he admitted. "This whole Agency scare got to me, I guess."

Understanding

Dalton looks up and smiles as his friend comes back into the room. He looked to be doing a little better. Shaking his head he replied to Scott.

   "Nope, nothing at all. It gonna be one of those days. So if you need to go feel free. I'm having steak dinner tonight though so if you feel like stopping by feel free."

Hearing the doorbell Maggie perks up and looks at Nate. Seeing him nod she runs to the door. They had been told Garret might stop by and though she didn't say anything Maggie really hopped it would.

Getting to the door and hopping up and down she tried to look out the window that was way at the top. About the fourth hop she squealed seeing it was in fact Garret. Opening the door her smile could not get any bigger than it already was.

   "Garret!!! Nate said you might come over, I've been waiting. What took so long?"

Maggie steps aside to let Garret in she smile never breaking from her face. She couldn't remember a time when she had been so excited for someone to come over, But to her Garret was special.

Holding Brian Nate watches as Maggie leaves to answer the door and he smiles looking back to Laura and giving a small nod. She was being so understanding with this whole thing. He was thankful for that and even if she didn't understand he was thankful she trusted him.

   "Garret. we are in here."

Catching the nickle that was tossed at her Adison almost dropped it but didn't. Looking to Krik she shakes her head and cant help the small laugh.

   "Only a nickle...I was at least worth a quarter."

Standing and stretching she new it was that time and she should probably get back to the office herself.  She had a lot of paperwork left herself and if she didn't get it done the boss would have her head. He sure was ornery lately.

   "Paperwork, Pizza, Loud music...what more could you ask for? I'll try to control myself from stopping by."

Just feeling Eric's warming sent chill's through Stacy. Eric's warmth, his love he was like eletric static and she loved every moment of the warm feeling. Never had she felt so love, comfortable, and accepted. 

   "And you guys mean everything to me. My world would be a whole lot darker without you in it."

Pulling away a little Stacy looks up at Eric and runs her hand down the side of his face for a moment. Something was different, maybe even wrong, she could tell. Nothing serious, but still something and it worried her slightly.

   "Is everything ok?"

Soaked

Scott's heart gave a little lurch, and he swallowed hard, dropping his gaze. He knew that look in Hope's eye. And the words were on the tip of his tongue. But he just couldn't say them. "I'll...see you later," he ended lamely.

Wandering back to his own office, he rejoined Dalton, sitting in his chair and letting out a long sigh. "Anything exciting happen in the last fifteen minutes?" He'd almost zoned out completely, so his question was only half in jest. "I might need to call it a day."


Garret didn't even respond to Nate, and simply walked away without breaking stride until he was outside, free of the building's confines. Stopping in the parking lot, he took a deep breath of the outside air, trying to use it to clear his head, but it did little good. What was wrong with him? He usually had more control than this. Much more. He felt angry but there was nothing to be angry at, leaving him desperate for some kind of release. 

After slapping his cap on his head, he headed across the lot and to the street where he took a different route than he had before. His mind was clouded. Not good. He was distracted. And that was dangerous. 

His stride quickened, as did his pulse as he tried to suppress his emotions. A breeze hit his face colder than he'd expected, and he pulled the collar of his jacket up. Odd. It had been so warm earlier. He kept walking. Perhaps there was no release for his anger because it was really himself he was angry with. But for what? His subconscious sent a wall crashing down to keep him from even going there. He wouldn't visit that. He couldn't. The answer was unacceptable....

...Seven o'clock. It had been raining steadily for over an hour, and Garret was soaked to the bone and cold. The weather system had brought with it a chill in the air for which he hadn't been prepared. Staring through the pouring rain at the house, it felt like a repeat of the last time he'd been here. And just like last time, he couldn't decide whether to approach or not. Supper had been at six, Nate said. It would be well over by now, leaving him feeling even more like an intruder. 

His shivering intensified. Why was he this cold? He was used to the abuse of outside elements and could live in the wilderness for days without anything. Why did he feel so weak? He should just head back to the Elite. It would take him a while from here, but then he could dry off and warm himself up. He turned to leave, but stopped when he thought of the warm, peaceful atmosphere in this home. 

Stepping up on the porch, he rang the doorbell and tried to control his body's reaction to the cold, but it was difficult. He was calmer now. Much calmer. But his anger had turned into something else. Something darker and lonelier, and he wasn't sure which he preferred. 


Kirk sighed and nodded. "Thanks. I can't help but feel this one is a little out of my league, but I'm trying. If I can buy a few more days, maybe that'll give me enough time to come up with a recommendation I'm comfortable with." 

He glanced at the large clock on the wall and smirked before reaching in his pocket to pull out a nickel, which he tossed towards Adison on the table. "Payment for Doctor Adison listening to all my woes." He grinned and winked. "As crazy as I've felt lately, you may wind up being a rich woman." 

Downing the rest of his coffee, he stood and stretched. "Okay...I gotta swing by the office to grab some paperwork, then I'm going home to spread it out all over my living room floor and figure out an acceptable plan. With pizza. And loud music. Yes." 


"Mm...yeah, they're sleeping." Eric turned to kiss the top of Stacy's head, before moving to wrap her in a warm hug. He was tired, but the images of his nightmare were still so fresh in his mind that he was too on edge to try going to sleep for a while. "Melody got fussy but she settled back down." 

He sighed and nuzzled his head down to her shoulder where he could kiss her neck softly. "You're my world, you know that?" he mentioned quietly. "You and Ashlee, and the twins... I don't know what I'd do if anything bad happened to any of you."

Right

   "You are never a bother to me Scott. No matter the time, place, or reason."

Oh hope Hope wanted to reach out, to tell Scott she loved him still, to tell him she would always be there but she new it was not the time. So she didn't say it and just smiled at him. He was so important to her, as important as the first time she met him. That had never changed.

Nate looks up at Garret. He could see the frustration on his face and he wondered what was wrong. Garret was in quite the mood at the moment and it worried Nate slightly. But what else could he do.

   "Just stay out of trouble, and stay safe thats all I ask."

Looking back at the paper work on his desk for a second Nate thinks. What could he do to make things better? He felt so confused with Garret's face change of mood. Maybe he just needed more kindness. Its all he had to offer.

   "Dinner is at six if you find yourself in the area. Laura is making pot roast, and Maggie called to tell me she made an apple pie for dessert. You are welcome to join us if you want."

   "I am pretty smart if I do say so myself, thanks for finally admitting it."

Leaning back in her chair she stretches and kicks Kirk a little with a smile of her own. She new him pretty much better than anyone and could almost feel his confusion. Something like this had to be hard for him. There was more in this situation than just two colors.

Continuing to listen to what he'd been doing and the reactions he had gotten Adison gives a nod. This place sounded like something you would pluck from a book. 

   "Well it sounds like you had a busy day, and made quite a few enemies. That being said...it sounds like you find something special, and a group of people maybe we all could take a lesson from."

Finishing she coffee and setting down a frown forms on her face. She always hated when the glass became empty but if she drank anymore she'd be up all night.

   "I guess you have a tough choice ahead of you. No matter what though I know you will make the right one. You always do."

Shifting her weight a little Stacy smiles seeing Eric coming twords her. The last few days that had been able to spend a little time together but not nearly as much as she wanted. It was nights like tonight though she was happy to have the company. 

   "So I've been told, I've never been much of a good listener though."

Knowing the girls must be sleeping and there time together would be limited as Eric would have to get back soon Stacy links her arm around his leaning into him slightly and her read resting on his arm. 

   "How was your night with the girls? Everything going smoothly?"

Blow something up

Was it true? Would Scott really never be the same again? He'd tried so hard. But...maybe Hope was right. Maybe trying to be the same was something he'd worked too hard at. But if he couldn't be the same, then who was he?

He sighed deeply, and still sat quietly for a couple more minutes before finally getting slowly to his feet. He wrapped his arms around himself his head hanging except for looking up at Hope. “I didn’t want to bother you, I just…couldn’t go back to work yet, but…but I think I’m okay now.”

Turning to leave, he stopped at the door, then glanced back at her once more, managing a faint smile. “Thank you… for… reminding me I’m okay.”


Left alone again, Garret grabbed the top of the punching bag and leaned on it wearily. Hitting this stupid thing just wasn’t enough. But he had nothing else. Scowling at himself, or the situation, or anything else, he trudged back upstairs to his room where he shut the door, quiet for at least an hour before he emerged again, shoes and jacket on. The workday was almost over, but as he hit the main floor, he saw Nate was still here.

Approaching the cubicle, his face was no less grouchy than it had been earlier. Lying on his bed had done nothing but increased his irritation. “Please tell me I can leave the building.” He stopped at the wall, really not caring whether he had permission or not, but after all his other trouble lately, he might as well ask. “Say yes, because I’m walking out that door before I blow something up, and I’ll be back by morning.”


 Kirk’s eyes widened as Adison mentioned some of his paperwork, although he hid a grin. He should have known. She was the only person who could get away with that without him getting upset. Truth be told, he was kind of glad she was more in the loop than anticipated.

“Agents there?” He cocked his head as the wheels started to turn. “What if… no… or… we could… hmmm…” His eyes roamed back and forth as he thought, then he took a sip of coffee. “You…are a very smart woman,” he mused, finally letting her see his smile.

“Ya know…I talked to several agents in a row and tore them to shreds. Sapphire Johnson defended her ex-Agency boyfriend tooth and nail, including a slap to my face – there was no way I could deny her genuine loyalty both for him and the Elite. Her brother, the head-case geek, broke in half just when I looked at him, fully aware that he doesn’t belong there, yet his reason for being there? The rest of the team believes in him, and that’s good enough for him. Talk about heart. Then Dalton – he’s the giant – comes and just about takes my head off for picking on the poor guy. It was like he was a big brother, not a coworker. So I went for the girl whose been marred to an ex-Agency guy and felt her out as a possible traitor. Broke her to pieces – I’ve never felt so guilty in my life, making a woman cry. I expected a fight, not this…this…raw, genuine allegiance. I just…”

He realized he’d gone off again, and paused his rant by sipping more coffee. “It’s like I’m looking at this rare, priceless jewel, and I’ve been given a sledgehammer to destroy it. How can I do that?” He shook his head. “Maybe you’re right. Maybe I don’t have to include everything in my report. ‘Cause if the Elite goes down because of me, I’m not so sure I’ll be able to sleep at night.”


The scent of smoke was thick in the air. Flames engulfed the barns and crept down the fence line, threatening the pastures. Horses ran scared through the yard and thundered past the houses that were left to the fire's mercy. Someone screamed. Several gunshots went off. A pickup tore down the driveway. The ranch had been converted into a war zone.

Sweat poured down Eric's dirty, battered face, his eyes glued to the inside door of the main house. He dared a glance over his shoulder where Stacy and Ashlee were huddled in the corner by the fireplace, both sheltering Harmony and Melody while they themselves were pale with fear.

An explosion went off somewhere in the near distance, sending a flash of light through the window before loud banging on the door ensued, along with the demand to open it. Eric raised his shotgun to his shoulder and took aim at the door, his finger on the trigger. No one was going to take his family. No one. Harmony and Melody's cries echoed in his ears as he waited for the door to open. And when it did, a shot was fired.

Eric woke with a jolt, spilling his now-cold mug of tea down his pantleg and onto the floor. It took him a moment to get his bearings and realize he was in his easy chair, and Melody was crying in the next room. His heart was still thumping wildly though, and he instinctively glanced to the window to make sure everything still appeared quiet. As a clap of thunder shook the bunkhouse though, he jumped again. His dream made a little more sense now, but the unsettling feeling remained in his soul. Apparently this whole Agency thing was getting to him more than he thought.

Trying to shake it off, he finally rose to set his mug in the sink, then wandered to the adjoining room. Harmony was sound asleep. Typical. He wasn't sure if an earthquake would wake her. Melody was another story altogether. He gently picked her up and held her close while prepping her bottle. Angel suspected her immune system wasn't as it should be - she'd already been sick twice now, requiring quite a bit of attention which made Eric worry, although he hadn't voiced those feelings. He just hoped she'd be okay as she got older.

Still drowsy, he leaned back against the wall as Melody finally quieted enough to suck her bottle. Once she was all done and cleaned up and falling back asleep, he put her down again, hoping no more thunder would wake her. It seemed the loudest had already passed, so that was a plus.

Wandering back to the other room, he glanced at the chair, then the bed. After the nightmare he'd just had, he really didn't want to go back to sleep yet. It was after midnight, but since the girls were sleeping soundly again, he really could go for some fresh air. Slipping on his boots and throwing on his denim jacket, he headed outside. It was a rather warm night, but the breeze was chilly - probably coming off the front that had passed just north of them where the thunder was still rumbling. They could use some rain, but it looked like they wouldn't get any of it tonight.

He pulled up his collar and tucked his hands in his pockets before yawning then stepping off the porch to wander around the barns. The nightmare was still fresh in his mind though, making it hard to relax. There was so much on the line now. So much more than there used to be. He'd only had himself to look after for so long that he wasn't sure how to take care of a family without worrying himself to death. With the Agency so close, all he wanted was to keep safe those he loved.

Rounding the corner of the main barn, Stacy's form automatically brought a smile to his lips. He hadn't been sure if he'd run into her or not since she'd changed up her routine to keep a stricter eye on things right now. Coming up beside her, he spoke quietly. "Don't you know it's dangerous wandering around alone in the dark like this?"

Know what?

Looking up at Scott Hope just study him for a long moment. Her heart ached when she saw Scott like this. He had been though so much already, than she just wished it would get better for him. She didn't know when but she always had the hope that it would.

   "What is normal really? We all have our issues, our problems, and we all just deal with them."

Falling silent again she thinks. She new what Scott was asking her and she wished the answer was simple. But it wasn't and she didn't think it ever would be. She still loved him, he was still Scott, even if he wasn't different.

   "I don't think you ever be like your old self again. I think you will always be different, after everything you have been though I think it would be impossible. But thats not a bad thing, we all change. It's how we deal with the change that matters."

   "No one is your babtsitter, I'm just asking that I know so if anyone asked I dont look like an idiot if anyone asks, and with Kirk on the rampage it would be nice for us all to avoid trouble."

Nate was trying to be nice, he didn't want Garret to get in trouble, and if he could help with that he wanted too. He just needed Garret to trust him, but he wondered if that would ever happen.

   "No nothing else for today."

Turning around Nate walked back upstairs and went back to his cubical. He wondered if he should tell Reese what had happened or just let it slide for now. For now he'd leave it be and if it happened again he would tell him. He hoped though next time Garret would just ask.

Sitting across the table from Kirk Adison listened to him as she sipped her coffee. Everything He was telling her new couldn't leave the table they were sitting at. She mulled over his words, and thought for a long moment. She could see his delema, he was black and white, yet had a heart of gold. This place must be special if he was willing to risk it.

   "Know a single bit about what?"

Adison grins again as she takes a sip of her coffee and puts her cup down thinking agian for a long second before talking.

   "Sounds like they are all over the place, putting themselves in danger time and time again. They dont follow rules, and test the limits, but it works for them and they fight for a cause. One that not many of us understand. If we were to take that away...what would happen? How would that affect there safety with the Agency. He would leave the targets."

Kirk was always black and white, she at times had a little more color. Serous about her work  but bent the rules now and again. 

   "I say, tell the chef what you need to. Don't lie, but you don't have to add in everything. Maybe even make a few suggestions of your own on what to do. Its easy by looking at you, you care what happens to them. We might not understand what they are doing, or agree but that dosent mean its wrong. From what I've read...."

Adison gives a sheepish grin. She read some of the files on Kirk's desk. She'd been bored without him around. She had to do something to keep herself busy.

   "The program they are running as worked on many different occasions. Maybe they just need to present a little more paperwork or something. Its possible if we had some agents there too it might make everyone feel a little more comfortable."

   "No more trouble than we always have been in Lane. Everything will be ok."

Angel smiles at her brother. If her was here or not who new when the Agency would strike. They couldn't live in fear though. That was no way to live at all.

Ashlee can't help but laugh even more a grin on her face at Travis comment.

   "You know laughter is the best medicine."

Movement catches her eye as Dylan walks out. A smile was still on her face but inside she felt so bad for him. He never joined in...why she didn't know but it hurt that he seemed so alone. She'd always done a few things with him or at least tried but as of late it was getting so hard when he would just hide away. 

Looking back to the others again she shakes her head before going back to eating.

   "Well that was fun."

Useless

Scott hesitated a moment, but then did enter Hope's office, letting the door fall shut. He didn't want any surprise intruders. Instead of sitting in one of the chairs though, he chose the corner and slid down to the floor, bringing his knees to his chest. As he fought his inner torment, he remained silent for a good ten minutes, rocking back and forth slightly the whole time as he tried to claw his way back to a more comfortable place in his mind. 

Eventually the rocking slowed then stopped, and he leaned his head back against the wall, opening his eyes. He'd been doing so well. He hated feeling like he'd taken ten steps backward in his progress. He rubbed his blind eye and tried to stay on top of his emotions while finally finding his voice. 

"I'll never be normal...will I?" 


Even though Garret saw and heard Nate, he ignored him, continuing to work on the punching bag. He had too much pent-up energy and wanted to fight. But even when Nate took him to task, he was calm about the whole thing, making it even more frustrating. Garret was used to being raked over the coals and given a chance to take the first swing to see who would come out on top. But not Nate. He had to be so easy-going about the whole thing, it was maddening. 

One last kick met the bag with a resounding whack, proving how hard he had just hit it. Breathing heavily, Garret turned to look at Nate, setting his hands on his hips. "I can't help if I'm not going to be allowed the resources to do it. And if somebody has to babysit me to make sure I don't misbehave, then forget it." His tone was grouchy. A contrast to how he'd been just a little earlier. He felt...unsettled. Nervous. Frustrated. And he wasn't even sure why. But he didn't like the way his mood was bouncing up and down. He'd hated Agency drugs but at least they'd kept him on an even keel. Now all he had was a rec room and the wishful thinking that he'd be able to find some kind of outlet to keep his head on straight.

Grabbing a bottle of water, he took a long swig. If Victoria was here, she'd help. She'd always helped. Whenever he'd come back from a mission, tense and ready to blow his stack, one touch was all it had taken to calm his nerves. But she wasn't here. And she wouldn't be. That was over and done.

The now-empty bottle was hurled into a nearby garbage can. Hard. He swung his gaze to Nate again. "Anything else before I go make myself useless for the evening?"


Kirk grinned as he read Adison's message. She liked to give him a bad time, but he knew he could always count on her.

To Adison: YES. See u shortly

Finally leaving the gas station, it didn't take him long to get to the The Corner - a favorite coffee shop he and Adison frequented. They always got the same thing, and always sat at the same table. Usually to hash things out away from listening ears...

...Kirk held his paper coffee cup between his hands and breathed in the steam as he stared at the dark liquid. Adison knew him well enough to know there was something on his mind, so there was no point in making her guess what it was.

"So, you know I've been over at the Elite headquarters..." Hearing the shop's door open, he looked over his shoulder out of habit to see who it was. He wasn't supposed to be talking about any of this, and couldn't risk a colleague listening in. Adison was the only one he trusted not to rat him out. "Chief's on my butt about getting him my report and I keep putting him off, saying I haven't had enough time. Truth is though... I've got all the information I need but I can't decide how much of it I want to share."

He bit his lower lip, knowing how bad that sounded. In his position, everything was supposed to be black and white, and just the suggestion of withholding information could get him fired. Collect intel and report it as seen - that was his current task. Period. There were no personal opinions that were supposed to be interjected. But he knew the look on his face would betray him. He and Adison were too close for her not to notice. They'd been friends for years and partners for almost just as long, making them inseparable - and as such, they knew each other quite well.

"The Elite's in trouble." He kept fiddling with his coffee cup. "Soon as the facts hit the chief's hands, that branch is gonna be shut down. They have shoddy structure, barely any protocol - and what they do have established is rarely followed, for which there is no discipline. Mike Reese lets them all get away with murder - sometimes that's literal - and treats everybody like equals instead of growing some and tightening the reins to maintain organization. They fly by the seat of their pants on seventy-five percent of their cases, they've got a guy working tech who's got PTSD like you wouldn't believe, they use their own infirmary instead of the hospital even when people's lives are at risk, and there's personal drama going on as bad a soap opera. Then to top it all off, they like keeping around people they've arrested to get these men and women integrated back into society - as if Reese thinks he can do a better job than our prison system. Even now they've got two guys - one is on lockdown with a blown out knee from getting shot on a botched mission and he's as angry as a bothered hornet. The other one was a high ranking Agency man who waltzed in one day saying he'd defected. Now he's being allowed to go out in the field and is probably the most dangerous man I've ever seen - he could take down the entire Elite single-handed without even a weapon, and I'm not kidding. Yet he walks around the place freely instead of being taken to prison where he belongs."

Heaving a long sigh, Kirk found Adison's eyes. He hadn't even told her why he currently had a split lip that was making drinking his coffee rather difficult. Everything he'd just said was very serious and he was obligated to included it all in his report. But there was more. "You know how logical I am. Everything I've seen points towards shutting the Elite down for good. And yet..." He shook his head. "I don't know if I can recommend that. There is more heart in that little place than the whole of FBI combined. They don't just do their jobs for a living - they do it because every single one of them believes in the cause - mainly taking down the Agency, which half the legal system still won't acknowledge exists, but I've seen it with my own eyes. In legal terms, Reese is one of the worst chiefs I've ever seen. And yet he has the utmost respect from his officers, not to mention his haphazard way of doing things somehow actually works. There's not one person there who wouldn't give his or her life in the line of duty. Even that ex-Agency warrior has something about him I can't put my finger on. Bottom line...I like the Elite. I really do. I thought I'd come away ready to shut them down and forget about it. But...instead, all I see is a tiny branch of the law struggling to keep its head above water - not because they're poor at their jobs but because no one is helping them stay afloat. Who else has the guts to function for years underground just so they can keep fighting a war no one else will acknowledge? Before surfacing, they were funded by people who actually donated to the cause - it's crazy! But I can't deny the courage and heart I see in all that. I just...I don't know what to report."

He'd said an awful lot in the last couple minutes, and his shoulders sagged under the weight of it all. His eyes remained ever-alert though, and he was quick to pick up the bill the waitress brought to the table - coffee was on him today. He gave Adison a bit of a sheepish look. "And you're not supposed to know a single bit of any of that...but I can't decide what to do and I need your opinion. It's not as cut and try as I thought it would be."


"Onion? Really?" Clint let the slice remain in his hair for a moment before picking it out and stuffing it in his mouth. "So there." 


At the other table, Lane followed Angel's gaze and gave half a smile. "He's always been a go-getter, which is why I've never understood why making friends has always been so hard for him. But I'm glad he seems comfortable here. After all that's happened...I don't know what he's going to do. I've made a mess of everything and he's left to decide what he wants to do from here on out." 

Luke, sitting next to Angel, lifted an eyebrow. "Hey," he intervened. "You had no idea about the Agency. That's not your fault. If it hadn't been for that, things would still be great. Don't be so hard on yourself." 

Lane's eyes dropped, but he nodded. "Thanks. I just hope I haven't brought trouble to the ranch." 


Laughing at the antics between Ashlee and Clint, Travis winced and held his sides. "Aw, don't make me laugh," he begged. It was hard though - the onion had been awfully funny. 


In the corner, Dylan picked up his empty dishes and carried them to the kitchen like he always did. He never left anything for anyone else to clean up, and he was always the first to leave. Once finished, he walked out the back door - also his norm. 

Wandering to his own bunkhouse, he eased down to sit on the steps and just looked up at the changing evening sky. He could find something to do in the barn, but he was tired and nothing more was required of him today. His eyes wandered back to the main house - even out here he could hear the laughter. Standing, he went inside and flopped down on his bed, turning on the television, but paying little attention to it. It was just enough noise to drown out his own thoughts.