Job

Giving a laugh and a wave Ryan starts out of the building again. Getting to her car Ryan pulls out her phone to call the shop and let them know she was going to be late but going to hit the button she notices its dead.

"You peace of crap."

Ryan toss the phone into the drivers seat and heads out of the parking lot. If she was lucky maybe her driving skills could come in handy and get her to work in a half way decent time.

Sitting with Sparky Faith pays close attachen to how he was rubbing the saddle also listing to his words closely like she always did. His voice was like a soft rain, or the wind blowing a chime, it was soft yet song, soothing, yet sent chills up her back.

"Ok, I got the front."

Taking the rag from Sparky Faith puts a little oil on it before placing it on the saddle. Gently starting to work the saddle her hands moved a little awkward not use to doing this, but she did her best to find a rhythm and  fall into step with Sparky.

Faith enjoyed spending time with Sparky and working along side him. Learning new stuff each day was fun, and it was nice to know that she to could help out around the ranch even with the little things. Not to mention the smell of oil, horses, and barns was one she quickly started liking.

Looking up at Sparky and giving a smile Faith's eyes sparkled, showing she truly was enjoying herself. Though it was only a minor thing to her it was great.

"I am doing ok?"

Finally pulling into the shop parking lot Ryan shoves the ticket into her pocket. It had been her own fault she got pulled over. She shouldn't have been speeding at all in town. But she was here now, and only...25 minutes late. Rolling her eyes at herself Ryan enters the shop not saying anything as she goes to the break room and puts her jacket in there. Than the time clock to punch in. Coming back out into the garage she takes in a few breaths before looking around at everone.

"Sorry Sorry I know I am late. I lost track of time."

Seeing her brother Ryan waves and smiles before going over to her work place. It wouldn't be hard to make up for lost time but it was just the fact that this had been the first time she had been late.Looking up at her bro as she tired the bandanna around her hair to pull it back she gives a sideways smile.

"Come to take my job from me because I was late?"

Oil

"No problem." Jason waves to Ryan. He'd come back upstairs once he'd made sure everything stayed calm with Alec, knowing that he wasn't needed. "Tell Axel hi when you see him."

Looking back down to his desk, he hadn't thought about Trooper until Ryan says something. Glancing up again, he grins. "He's the most dedicated Agent we've got. Come here, Trooper."

Hearing his name and the tone of his master's voice, Trooper is satisfied to leave Ryan's side, and he wanders back into Jason's office. Turning around, he sits and looks to Ryan, giving a soft woof.

Jason chuckles. "He says you're alright and he'll be glad to escort you again when needed."

"...so this is to keep the leather from drying out." Sitting with Faith in the tack room, Sparky had a western saddle set up in front of them and he was showing her how to clean and oil it.

His fingers moved skillfully around the leaher, his hands at home. "Gotta make sure oil gets in all the cracks and crevices and as long as it's soaking it up, you can't use too much."

He holds out the rag to Faith. "You can take the front end and I'll take the back."

Shadow

Making her way through TJY once again Ryan made a few wrong turns but finally found herself in the area with the offices and cubicles again. Heading across the floor feeling Trooper close behind her Ryan makes a b-line for Jason's office. Seeing the door open she knocks before opening it a little feather.

"Hey, thanks for letting me see Alec. He seemed to be ok around me. I'm running late now for work, but I will more than likly be back some other time. Thanks again Jason."

Turning to leave Ryan could still feel Trooper following her. Looking down at the dog her smile widens a little.

"As much as I would like to take you with me I don't think you master would approve. You don't have to protect me now."

Moving forward again Ryan can still feel the dog taking a few steps with her. Looking down at Trooper again she lets out a sigh before looking up at Jason who was behind his desk.

"Seems my shadow still wants to follow."

Ace

Sensing the sudden urgency to get going, Trooper stands up, looking between Ryan and the door. He yawns, his large mouth showing all of his teeth and his tail wags once as he waits.

Alec lifts an eyebrow at Ryan's suggestion that she return sometime and with lunch to boot. He couldn't help but wonder if she really meant it, or if it was just a passing thought that would be forgotten. Had he curbed whatever craving she had to see someone in jail or was she a more dedicated visitor?

Watching her leave, he remains silent, seeing that Trooper followed her back out. The room became deathly quiet again and he could hear his own pulse thumping in his head. He couldn't stop the feelings that rose, reminding him that he had enjoyed the company. He hadn't wanted it. If asked, he'd say he didn't care. But on the inside... he wished for more. He'd get it though...

Having had one leg tucked up under the other, he reaches down to his pantleg, sliding out a playing card. Flipping it over, he runs his thumb over the ace of spades. Ryan would be back.

"Where is she?"

"I don't know. Not time yet."

"She's usually here early."

"Well where's Leo?"

"Don't know that either. He's been gone a lot lately."

Eli stands to one side of the shop, fiddling with a wrench as he listens to the other guys talk back and forth while they worked. It was true... Ryan was late and Leo wasn't around... again. Eli had been meaning to ask Ryan about it. Leo, that is. He'd been evasive lately... never available in the evenings, often times on the phone with a woman, and distracted. But he wouldn't talk about it. Eli had his suspicions, but he hated to accuse Leo of two-timing Ryan. If that's what it was though, he'd find out and he'd get justice. No one two-timed his sister.

Late

As Alec announces his hand and Ryan lost a smile forms on her own face. She's always liked playing cards but he had picked the one game she wasn't good at. Taking the cards and putting them all together Ryan sets them down again before picking up the paper and doing the points.

"Well, it looks like you whipped me this time around."

Looking across the Cot at Alec Ryan caught sight of the look that loomed in his eyes. Seeing the glimmer that he was having fun a smile didn't need to confirm it. If at least for a few hours Alec had been entertained than that was enough to make her happy.

Wanting to play another hand Ryan looks down at her watch, Seeing the time she cant help the curse that slipped from her lips. She had 10 min to get to work and it was at least take 15 if traffic was good, taking in count time to leave the building and letting Jason know she was going now.

Taking the cards and gathering them together Ryan puts them back into the package and sticks them in her pocket along with her pen.

"I have to go, I am going to be late for work. Since you won, I'll bring lunch next time, and more magazines."

Moving across the room Ryan leaves not saying much else, heading back out into TJY to try and find Jason.

Two

Alec finds Ryan's comment about the cards a little strange, but he says nothing. Smirking a little at the receipt and suggestion of points, he nods. "Alright. Let's start twenty-five each with two for the ante."

Shuffling his cards around in his hand, he studies them for a moment before setting a couple aside, face down. "Two cards," he announces, letting Ryan deal them to him before adding them to his hand.

Once she's decided on cards as well, he starts the bid at just a few points and their game begins. A series of hands, calls, raising bids and fluctuating points ensues. Alec proves his skill at playing, knowing when to bid and when to fold, and being quite the bluffer. His face stays solemn the whole time, making it nearly impossible for anyone to tell if he was having a good time or not. But he stays in the game, never offering small talk, but never suggesting he was bored either.

Trooper eventually lies down, satisfied that everyone was safe, though his eyes are open and his ears perked, always on guard.

"Flush." Alec lays down his cards, knowing he had this hand won. His face so desperately wanted to smile, but his lips remain settled in a firm line. Only his eyes show a glimmer far far away that hinted he might be enjoying this.

In reality, time had gone by quickly, and he wasn't about to remind Ryan that she had to leave or she'd be late for work.

Ha ha ha

Ryan can't help but laugh at Alec's comment even if it was a pretty dry and morbid joke. At least he tried to have a scene of humor.

"Ha ha...smart Alec. Get it smart Al...never mind."

Ryan rolls her eyes at herself, and looks at Trooper as he comes over. She didn't mind the dog, but Ryan did find it funny that he followed Jason's direction to a T. For a moment she wondered how much they had to train the dog to do so.

Bringing her attachen back to Alec and the cards She picks up her own looking at them for a moment. Putting the cards down again Ryan reachs into her pocket and pulls out a oil pen for writing on cards, and an car receat.

"Since we don't have anything else..."

Ryan shakes her head again not being able to help the stupid smile on her face.

"...we can use points. Maybe next time I will bring a bag of chips we can use or something. Oh and please be careful with the cards. They are pretty special to me and very old."

Smiling at JT as he opens the door Rosetta gives a nod. Her eyes searching JT's tired eyes and it made her heart hurt even more.

"JT...Scott and Hope are here. They want to help. Hope said she things if she does an evaluation on Bree, and see what was done to her at the hospital she might be able to prove she is not crazy, and giving a decent reason to why you guys broke her out. No one knows your here yet, Scott had to come pick up some stuff he let Mick barrow and Hope is an old friend of mine so it wont be suspicious"

Rosetta steps back from the door a little motioning to the kitchen where the two were.

"I didn't know if Bree would be up to talking with Hope now, or if you wanted to talk to them both first."

Amanda sat up on the bed, moving to the edge setting the book down on the nightstand. Hearing someone was at the door, and wanted to talk to JT and Bree she was on edge herself wondering if they were friend or foe.

Erm

JT hears Rosetta's voice and at first, he hesitates. But he knows he can trust her.

Getting up from the bed, he goes to the door, unlocking it and opening it to see her. "Yes?"

"Arsenic." Alec's humor was so dry that without a smile one might think he was actually serious until he picks up his cards. "Poker," he reiterates. "'Course there's nothing to bet with."

Looking over to Ryan, he gives her a once over. "Unless it's not money we're talking about."

All of a sudden, Trooper is at the cot, surveying the card game. He turns to sit near Ryan's spot and looks to Alec, flashing his teeth for just a moment but not growling.

The hair on Alec's neck stands up. He hadn't been born with a hatred of dogs. It had come later after an experience he didn't care to relive. And right now, he wished Trooper didn't exist. "Or... we can play for nothing," he concludes lamely.

Poison

Sitting sipping her coffee Rosetta gives a thoughtful nod listing to what Scott said. Though they hadn't interacted much when Gunner was here Rosetta new who he was, and once in a great while he would come down for a meal. She couldn't help but feel bad for him, yet proud that he cared for Bree enough to do this at the same time.

"It was very noble of him to do that, but I do hope he can be helped so he doesn't face jail for to long if at all. And Hope your here to help Bree?"

Hope looks across the table at her long time friend. She was going to try anyways and see if at least she could make it that no one would snag Bree and ship her back if she came home anyways.

"I was hopping that if I evaluated Bree I could prove she is not crazy and at least make it so she could come home. Not to mention show the brutality that was used on her when she is perfectly well maybe that would give a little leverage for Gunner and JT on why they broke her out, because technically she was being torched."

Looking over to Hope Rosetta gives a smile. Hope had always done what she could to help those who were weak. She was good at her job, and she new just what allys to take.Rosetta could of hopped for a better reunion than this for seeing Hope again, but this was what it was and new she had a job to do here.

"Ok, gives me a second to go make sure JT is up, and see if Bree is well enough to talk with. Give me a second I'll be back."

Standing and putting her cup into the sink Rosetta makes her way out of the kitchen and into the dinning area going over to the small door. Giving a few knocks on the door before leaning close to it, to talk through.

"JT its Rosetta. Its ok to open the door."

Searching Alec's eyes Ryan rolls her own at his comment. If he had finished his statement she might have been tempted on throwing the deck of cards at his head and than they would of been back at square one, so she was happy he stopped.

Watching Alec as he moves around on the cot, and taking note to the empty space on the cot a small smile makes its way to the corners of her mouth. Taking a few steps twords the cot Ryan stops for a moment looking back at the door and than to Alec again, the grin on her face growing.

Sititng down on the cot sideways Ryan gets comfortable before gently taking the cards from the pack. Not to past to rip it as it was about to fall apart as it was from being so old. Shuffling the cards Ryan finally deals the cards out before looking up at Alec again.

"I delt now you pick your poison. Gin, Poker, War, Six card draw....name it"

Game

Alec squints one eye, pondering Ryan's offer. He twirls the tennis ball in his hands. "I always feel like playing."

The little quirk at the very edge of his mouth proves he was not referring to cards. But he doesn't follow that route any further. He knew Ryan was too smart for that game.

Sitting up a bit straighter, Alec slides to one end of the cot, turning sideways and gesturing to the now-empty middle. "Your deal if you want it." He shrugs lamely, his blue eyes staring up at her with a strange mixture of dullness and taunting.

Relief flashes in Scott's eyes as Rosetta tells him that JT and Bree are safe and he nods, grateful for her honesty. "Nevada? Well... not great. Generally yeah, but Gunner's in jail and they're not planning on letting him out. I think Angelica was talking to him today. That's um, our lawyer. But without proof, Gunner doesn't have a very good chance. Even with proof, he's in trouble. But... as long as Bree's safe and stays safe, I don't think he cares much."

Few rounds

As the ball flys at Ryan she does not flinch or show fear that it would of hit her at all. Though on the inside her heart was racing wondering what his motives were.

To Ryan Alec's own eyes betrayed him. Could it be she has seen the lies of many in her line of entertainment, or simply she was able to see through the emotions on the outside of this one man. Whatever it was she could see the longing in his eyes and almost the excitement in the thought of playing.

"Well, I don't have to be into work for another hour and I don't have anything else to do till than so why not I mean I am already here."

Pushing off the wall again Ryan takes a few steps twords Alec still holding the cards in he hand. Eli new she was out, and probably wouldn't be back before work, Leo was working already so really she didn't have anything else to do.

"If you feel like maybe liking to play today, we can go a few hands."

Lie

Alec's eyes narrow slightly and again, his mouth hints that there's a smile just dying to emerge but it's kept at bay. "Oh, I'm sure you don't do anything but keep your head on straight. Unless you count coming here. That one still has me stumped."

Spying the deck of cards as she draws them out of her pocket, one could almost see him itching to play. He bites his lip, weighing his options. He'd had nothing to do for so long... a simple deck of cards was like heaven. But he wasn't here to enjoy himself. He was here to think about freedom and getting away from here. He wasn't here to socialize. He was here to keep his enemies.

"Not really," he lies. Taking the ball he throws it so it ricochets off the wall just left of Ryan's head, showing that either he was lucky or had very good aim. He doesn't let it fly again though, his eyes returning to the cards. "Well maybe... sometimes... I didn't think you were staying that long though."

Do you...

Ryan gives a smile and a small laugh. Not at Alec but just in the observation she made. In a way she kind of found it funny, that he seemed so cold but now she could see the soft look in his eye, and the softness to his voice.

"Ha, you must have a good memory than."

Finding her way back to the wall across from Alec Ryan leans against it again. It was comfortable having her back leaning against something. Searching Alec's face again Ryan speaks softly, on his comment. At least is was something to talk on.

"It might be a soft spot, but in a lot of people I don't think its a weakness, if you can keep your head on straight that is."

Putting her hands into pockets once again Ryan's hand hits the small object that she had forgotten was even there. Pulling out the old pack of cards she just holds it for a long moment before finally looking up at Alec. Holding up the cards she smiles.

"Do you like to play cards?"

Trying to start a conversation

Alec gives a little scoff. "Nah... just found it with a bunch of other writings once. I don't know why I remembered it. No real point - just fills my brain with useless content."

The tennis ball bounces off the wall a few more times. "Though I suppose it comes in handy when women seem to like that sort of thing." He stops playing with the ball and looks at Ryan again. "You're different. Cars, grease and adrenaline rushes. One thing that always fascinated me though, was discovering that despite the outside, all women have a soft middle and a weakness for TLC and a good poem." 

Alec pauses, wondering at his own talking. He didn't want to talk to anybody. He'd been downright stubborn about it and wouldn't even talk to Hope anymore, other than spouting off in anger. But all anyone ever did was yell at him anyway, ordering him around. Ryan was... different. She'd come  because she'd wanted to, not because she had to. And knowing that dragged to the surface that natural desire to communicate and interact. No matter how cold Alec was, he was still human. Somewhere, way down deep, he still desired companionship.

"At least... that's what I've observed."

It's ok

Searching Scott's eyes for a long moment Rosetta does not say anything. Her eyes roaming his face as she continues her silence. JT had told her they were hiding, and what the reason was for. Rosetta couldnt help but be leery just for a moment on Scott showing up here.

Finally finding what she was looking for in Scott's eye, Rosetta's talent for seeing into the soul plays out. His intentions were pure and good. They were here to help, Rosetta could see that much and for a moment felt bad that she even questions Scott's motives.

Giving a small nod and handing out the coffee to Hope and to Scott Rosetta joins them at the table with a cup of her own.

"They have, safe and sounds. Its ok to talk about them here Scott. Everyone knows, and they are safe no one is going to harm them or even try. Bree is in pretty rough shape and been sleeping a lot, asking about Gunner and JT has just been trying to hold off telling her anything that cought cause more harm. Drink you tea and relax for just a little than I can take you to them."

Taking a sip of the hot liquid Rosetta lets it slide down her throat falling silent again for a moment before striking up a more light conversation.

"How are things in Nevada going?"

Listing to Alec once again, Ryan takes in the words he spoke just letting them soak in as he spoke. Ryan couldn't help but be surprised how easy the words rolled off Alec's toung. If he said them from memories, or if he made them up both were amazing.

"Its not always smart but whats life if you cant take a chance once and a while."

Ryan lets out a sigh sticking her hands in her pocket again. Thinking for a long moment as she stood there a few feet from Alec. The ever so small smile that wanted to form on his life made her wondered where along the road, this man had turned so cold. He couldnt have always been like this right? Ryan wasnt going to ask that personal of a question though now on her first visit back. Instead she would tell a truth again...

"That was amazing Alec, I don't think I have ever had a poem read to me before. Thank you for shearing. Did you write it yourself?"

Out of the ordinary

JT gives Bree a slight nod. "Soon... soon we'll go out for a walk." He didn't want to go just yet - not before he knew who had arrived.

Scott returns Rosetta's hug warmly. "It's good to see you too." While maybe he wasn't going to be a part of this family like once thought... he was still treated as such, and knew that he had a place here, regardless.

Smiling at the reunion of the two women, he follows to the kitchen, taking a seat with Hope at the little table. Chuckling, he shakes his head at Rosetta. "I called and talked to Jeff... he must not have passed the message along that I needed to come and pick up that equipment I set up for Mick a while back."

He looks up to meet Rosetta's eyes. "But... what I didn't tell him over the phone that we haven't come just to see you... we have a couple very special friends who... might have arrived?" His stare is one that conveys much more than he is saying. "At least we're hoping they have."

"Out of the ordinary..." Alec repeats the end of Ryan's statement, still staring her in the eye. "Out of the ordinary she was born, a myth some like to say. Her eyes like fire, a heart ablaze, A treasure not to scorn."

Leaning back, he puts his hands behind his head, still looking up at her. His gaze was one that spoke of pain under the ice. He was lonely, but too proud to ever admit it. Even for him, as hard as the outer shell was, eventually, time spent here and time alone would seep through the smallest cracks, creating a longing for interaction and a longing to be free. He doesn't smile, though something pulls at one corner of his mouth.

"She rode a steed of mighty heart, Her soul spread on the wind. Battles raged across the land, But she would not depart. Her bravery was that of sacred trust, All eyes to her did stare. And when it came for time to die, The forests silenced, hushed. For it was her, the legends say, That conquered pride of man. Twas she who took the thorn of love, The price all men would pay. For she... not one, but all embraced, Symbolized her kind. The kind which men are cursed to seek, but never find her face."

Alec's eyes roam Ryan's face. He wasn't even drunk and he was running off at the mouth, reciting a poem he hadn't read in years. Maybe it really was a curse... to seek other people, let alone a woman. For in the search, all it did was produce loneliness and bitterness to keep him company, stuck in this prison.

He shakes his head and once more throws the tennis ball. "Out of the ordinary isn't always smart," he concludes dryly.

Intresting

Laying in the bed ever so still Bree just stairs at the wall. Holding the blanket that had been wrapped around her ever so close. The faint smell of Gunner was still there, and it was her comfort right now, the closest thing she had to him.

Feeling her Uncle sit down next to her on the bed Bree shifts her head down a little bit to look at JT. Trying to let a smile slip on her face, the corners of her mouth upturn very slightly just trying her best.

"I'm...doing ok."

Bree's voice came out in a soft whisper. Words were not high on her list of things to do right now and talking just seemed useless. But she did want some fresh air, maybe she could go for a walk.

"Can I go for a walk outside?"

Amanda sat comfortably over on the bed  her back aganst the wall. She'd already called work and let them know she had a family matter she was taking care of. They were instructed to call only if there was an emergency. A book in her hands now she was noise deep in reading it.

Hearing the door open Rosetta looks up from the book she was reading with BJ. Seeing Scott step into the dinning hall a smile forms on her face even bigger than before. Shifting a little bit she tells BJ to run along and play, they would finish the book later.

Standing Rosetta makes her way over to Scott and gives him a big smile. She didnt get to see him last time he was here, so it had been a little longer for her.

"Scott....its so good to see you again."

Giving him a hug Rosetta wasnt shy and she felt like Scott belonged here just as much as the next person. As the movement catches her eyes Rosetta looks to the smiling woman that stood next to him.That smile, thoughs eyes it reminded her oh.....Rosetta looks to Hope with surprise on her face. It had been a long time since she actually saw Hope face to face.

"Hope Garrison...Oh my goodness its been a long time. You looks so different, yet the same all at once. Wow...what do I owe the plesent suprise of both of you?"

Rosetta leads them to the kitchen offering the little table and for both the visitors to sit while she brewed a pot of coffee.

Hearing Alec's comment Ryan takes a few steps back only to see him better. She wasn't nervous anymore but she new she still had to be careful. In an instint she could be blindsided, or even twisted to Alec's will if she let her own guard totally down. Though something told her he wouldnt try that this time for fear of the only really human comtact not coming back again. Still she needed to tread lightly.

"I've come to find out in the weeks that have pasted, there is more than just racing in the world. Doesn't hurt to change things up once and a while, going on a new bizarre mission, helps keep life interesting. Doing something new, out of the ordinary.."

Her face continued to hold its soft smile as she looks at Alec, searching his eyes Ryan catchs the new looks, with the tint of a softness behind it. Ryan new it was there still...somewhere.

Bizarre mission

JT takes the leftover dishes into the kitchen from the spare room. Lunch was long over, but most of the day had been spent by Bree, just being quiet, or talking a little. She wasn't conversing much though, and JT feared a cloud of depression was descending.

On his way back to the room, his eye spots movement outside and he pauses a moment to see an unfamiliar car pulling into the driveway. Immediately on guard, he moves from the window and backs to the hallway before going to the room again and shutting the door, locking it.

He walks to Bree's bed again to sit down, looking at her with as much worry as an hour before, he forces a smile, not wanting to tell her that strangers were here. "How ya doing? Did your food settle with you alright?"

The corner of his eye sees that Hope is here as well, and he wonders how long they will have to stay until they get word from Nevada.

Scott gets out of the Elite car and grabs his bag, waiting for Hope to join him. He takes her free hand with a smile and heads to the dining hall. Opening the door, he doesn't bother knocking, know that in the afternoons, there were people coming and going.

Once inside, he glances around, looking for any familiar faces.

Trent glances up from from the table he'd been sitting at for hours, his eyes tired, his head weary and his hand cramped from writing and throwing away pages. He spies Scott and a little smile appears on his face, ever so faint. He didn't recognize the woman though, but he leaves that to Rosetta, who was nearby. He'd let her welcome visitors.

Alec is silent as Ryan talks, trying to decide if she was really telling the truth or not. Any woman he'd ever dealt with could twist men around their fingers whichever way they wanted. He'd been twisted enough to know that. But Ryan didn't have that evil glint in her eye.

She didn't even know why she was here. It wasn't normal. There was something else about her... something deeper. Whether Alec wanted it to or not, there was a small piece of her that was fascinated. Ryan was different.

Seeing the ball being handed back to him, Alec hesitates. His coolness wanted to snatch it out of her hand harshly. But for some reason, he didn't. Accepting it more gently, his fingers brush hers.

Holding the ball, he twirls it in his fingers, then finally looks back up at Ryan. The cold had turned to something different, almost sly. "Magazine... good deeds... what next?"

Tossing the ball it bounces off the wall again for him to catch in one hand. "You fascinate me, Ryan. Someone who comes without knowing why... being nice to someone who doesn't deserve it... being the only visitor on record, other than an ignorant sister... Tell me - do you often escape the dangers of the raceway to go on bizarre missions?"

And I

Ryan gives a small laugh as she leans against the wall on the opposite side of the room. Her one leg bent under her as she leaned. Of course it wouldn't be easy for Alec to just accept the magazine, and be grateful she had expected it. Let alone let her be in the room this long with him and now throw her out. But he hadn't, and she was still there, not even sure herself why when she new Alec was cold as ice, and probley would never let her in again.

"There is no catch to why I am here, other than maybe curing a little bit of your boredom. As for wanting something from you...I don't want anything."

Leaning her head agent the wall Ryan collects her thoughts for a long moment. What would be the point of pulling a fast one over Alec he would see right thought her. He was smart and he wasnt a kid so why treat him like one?

Looking at Alec again Ryan gives a small smile and shakes her head.

"Alec, I don't know why I am here, and I don't know why I told you about my brother. I just...felt right to come. I guess we all need someone once and a while even if we don't want the company. Maybe I just wanted to be nice to you as well because when I met you for the first time, you seemed different to me and I liked it, but my own cockiness stood in the way."

Pushing off the wall Ryan stands there her hands in her jacket pockets playing with her keys for a moment. Her nerves seemed to calm, thought now she didnt know what would happen next.

"Anyways, I do hope you enjoy the magazean and I have more I can bring you at a later time. There are even some puzzles in the back that could keep you busy. I never was smart enough for those Sudoku and what not."

Going over to where Alec's ball had landed Ryan retrieves it holding it for a long moment. Finally standing by Alec she holds it out to him, giving it back.

Nothin'

Ryan's apology catches Alec enough off guard that he misses his next catch and the ball bounces through his fingers, hitting the edge of the cot and rolling into the corner under a table. She was sorry? What game was she playing here?

He finally turns his head to look up at her, his eyes narrowing as he studies her. She seemed genuine... she didn't look like she was lying. Her body language was more nervous than anything else. And why not? She was alone with a criminal.

A brother in jail was interesting. But why she liked Alec, he had no idea, unless she liked drunks. What was with the magazine? For him? He didn't get it.

Curiosity gets the best of him, and he reaches for the magazine, studying the cover for a moment, then thumbing through a few pages. There was a lot of information with a lot of neat pictures of cars in here. Ryan must not be too bad a racer to get on the cover. Alec hadn't had any reading material since he got here... some of that had to do with the fact that he always refused the offers. But still, this was quite different. The questions still nagged at him though.

Letting the pages fall shut, Alec looks up at Ryan again. His eyes were so cold... so hard. Windows to the soul, they showed a lack of life and a heart encased in an iron shell. "So what's the catch?" he asks. "People just don't waltz in to see me and act all nice and give me something for no reason. There's always a catch. But if you're not smart enough to see that I don't got nothin' to give, it's your own fault."

Races Paradise

Seeing how cold Alec was not it seemed to kill Ryan on the inside though on the outside she wouldnt let it show. She had seen the good in Alec once, he was drunk...but she had seen the good there anyways. Now to see him like this though...it was sad.

"No, I didn't I just same to see you. I got a brother thats in jail and I don't get to see him than I got to thinking about you, and I didnt know if anyone came to see you or not. So I figured why not come and see you.  I liked you from the moment I met you, we just didnt start out on the right foot and that was my own fault. So sorry about that."

Ryan stops for a moment holding the book in her hand. She didn't even know why she was here competely, but yet she stood in front of the door talking to Alec. Even saying she was sorry to him.

"I guess all in all I thought maybe you could use a friend even if you didnt want one. Oh and I brought this for you too."

Ryan takes a few steps twords Alec and sets the book down next to him.. On the cover were 3 different colored cars. It seemed the pictures were taken from a race about 3 months past. Ryan sat on the bright red car, and two others on the other ones. Under them were different adds for car parts, and car assessories, and in big words it read: "Races Paradise.

"You seemed interested in cars and I though you might to look through that to pass the time. I have so many different ones of those its not funny. So if you end up liking it, I'll bring the others for you too."

Cool

Seeing movement out of the corner of his eye, Alec was surprised that anyone was entering his room. It wasn't suppertime yet.

Catching sight of Ryan, he's even more surprised. It takes him just a moment to realize who it is - that night, their encounter had been brief. But when she speaks, he's sure that it's her.

Every fiber in his being wanted to sit up and ask what she was doing there. He was beyond curious. This wasn't normal. What could she possibly want? Obviously she'd come through the right channels - Trooper was right there, keeping an eye on things. Alec hated dogs.

Instead of giving into his curiosity though, Alec turns his head away and throws his ball again to catch it a moment later, then back again. "No, I didn't," he answers coolly.

Tap... tap... tap. The ball continues it's course, bouncing off the wall and into his right hand, then over again.

"Come to survey?" he asks, his tone dry.

Bet

Looking up from her cubicle Jamie looks at Gage for a moment searching his eyes. Closely she could see the same refreshed glint once a long time ago Carson himself had and it made her smile. If she had helped Gage today, than it defiantly was worth digging up a few old memories.

"Your welcome Gage. I am happy it made sense. If you ever want to talk more just know you have friends to do so with."

Nodding to Jason Ryan looks down at the dog and gave a small chuckle. It was a good tactic, a guard dog how ironic, but it was better than nothing Ryan was at least thankful for that.

Taking a few steps twords the door Ryan stops looking back at Jason and than straight ahead again the magazine held in her hand. It felt strange for her to be anxious and nervous, but she was maybe because Alec would tell her to go before she could even talk.

Letting out a long sigh Ryan finally opens the small door letting herself in the cell and than letting Trooper follow. Standing across the room from Alec it seemed her words were lost. But finally finding them again she gives a small wave not to sure Alec would be happy to see her or not.

"Hey Alec, bet you didn't think you would ever see me again huh?"

Guard duty

A grin comes to Gunner's lips and he holds up the pen. "And I was hoping this came from James Bond's lab."

Shaking his head, he gives a dry laugh. "Don't worry... I'm not going anywhere. This doesn't have the right kind of spring in it."

The corner of Gage's mouth twitches and he nods. "Okay. Sounds good to me."

Giving her a last little wave, he backs out of her cubicle and heads for the exit. On his way though, he has to pass by Jamie's cubicle and he sees that she's back to work as well. Biting his lip, he decides to stop.

Glancing in on her for just a moment, he clears his throat. "Hey, Jamie? Um... thank you... for all the stuff you said today. It made a lot of sense and... well.. um, yeah.... thanks."

Jason leans back in his chair, his brow furrowing as he listens to Ryan and tries to keep up with her story and understand why it was exactly that she was there. As he process what he's hearing, he doesn't realize that once again, he's opened up the communication to Katie, not knowing that she can hear everything that he's hearing.

As Ryan finishes, Jason still isn't sure he really knows why she's there. He wasn't convinced she could help Alec at all by paying him a visit. But what was the harm? If Axel had sent her here, she couldn't be all bad, and Jason sensed no ill intent in her. Trooper seemed halfway relaxed as well, signaling that he didn't sense anything wrong either.

Jason takes a deep breath and lets it out slowly. He can't help a little grin at her last comment. "Yeah well... Reese's bark is worse than his bite."

Standing up, he pulls out a sheet of paper and checks off a couple things. He had the time and didn't see anything wrong with someone seeing Alec. He had the authority to clear anybody. "Can I see your ID? It's just routine so we know for sure who all has been in and out of here. We're not keeping Alec from visitors, but with someone like him, we have a pretty tight security."

Jotting down some information from Ryan's ID, Jason files it and gestures to the door. "I'll show you the way."

Once they're out in the hall, Jason leads the way downstairs, Trooper tailing a ways behind them both. Down to the lower level, Jason passes by the rec room and a couple other doors, then into an open area with the holding cell to one side. Past that was another door that was ajar. "He's right through there."

Jason gives Ryan a kind look. "No bars and you don't have to have an audience. There's cameras everywhere though, so if anything happens, you're not alone. I'll wait out here, but Trooper will go with you."

He glances to his dog, pointing to Ryan. "Keep her safe."

Trooper gives a soft woof, approaching Ryan but staying several feet away. He looks at her, waiting for her to move. He would follow her and stand between her and Alec if need be. He was the perfect guard that allowed for privacy of visitors and he knew his job well as long as he'd received his orders from someone he respected.

Alec sat slumped on the cot, throwing a tennis ball at the opposite wall and catching it as it bounced back to him. His eyes were dull, his demeanor no brighter.

Hearing voices outside his room, he doesn't pause his one-sided game. He always went ignored - this was probably no different.

Escape

Angelica gives another nod to Gunner. The look in his eye when he talked about Bree. The sparkle that maybe he didn't even know it was there she'd seen it before. When Jason talked to Katie, when her sister had falled for Bret, and she could even catch it sometimes in Reese eye. He cared deeply for this woman, enough he risked being locked away for a very long time and didn't care as long as she was ok. That was honor, that was...love.

"I'll do all I can. I'd never turn my back on my own. No matter what."

Angelica gives a slight nod as she gathers her things and stands. She'd leave the paper and pen with Sparky so he could doodle. Though she looks at him sternly and gives a soft chuckle as the one side of her mouth turned up in a grin.

"Don't try and escape with that thing ok? It will only make my job ten times harder."

Giving a laugh Angela starts for the door as she stands just a little taller. Passing by Gunner Angelica rests a hand on his shoulder for a moment before removing it.

"I'll be talking to you again real soon, I promise you that."

Returning the small kiss Sapphire leans her head into his hand for a bref moment. A smile formed on her lips as she felt warm and fuzzy inside.

"I most defiantly will call you tomorrow. Maybe we can rent a movie in and you can help me cook dinner tomorrow."

Giving another smile Sapphire took not to the look in his eyes, it seemed like there was a smile hiding there some where and it made her feel good to see it.

Entering the large office it was much different than she was expecting. Set up differently, well kept yet relaxing at the same time. Hearing the growl of the massive dog growl Ryan is hesitant for a moment but enters anyways. Just watching him for a moment till she hears Jason speak again.

"Thats quite the guard dog you have there. I think Axel left out that part."

Giving a smile Ryan steps closer to the desk. Whiping what little bit of motor oil she had on her hand on her pants she holds it out to Jason in a friendly shake.

"Hi, Ryan McKade, I'm a friend of Axel Thornton. He's actully the one who told me to come to you because you might be able to help me. Is it ok if I sit?"

Receiving the ok to sit Ryan does so sinking into one of the oversize chairs. Thinking for a moment as she looks around the office Ryan trys to collect her thoughts on how she wanted to approch her question.

"You guys...or your organization The Elite are holding a friend of mine Alec Banks. Well He's not really a friend...I only met him once and I am pretty sure I saw a soft side to him that no one has seen since. I know it was a true softness to because...I could just tell. I havnt seen him since that day though, but I imagen with the chip he had on his shoulder he's not doing to well. Anyways I was just wondering if there was anyway I could see him? I have this car magazine here for him..."

Ryan holds it up to prove it was just a magazine and nothing more.

"...I know your probably going to want to say no right off the bat and well I don't blame you. But I got a brother that's in jail too. But I cant see him because well...He's in real bad shape. I know my brother is a good guy thought just somethings in life got messed up and he grew real cold. I just....dont want to see the same thing happen to Alec and I hope I could help him lilke I should of helped my brother."

Ryan's eyes search Jason's not being able to read him to well. Not that she thought she could really read an Elite Agents eyes. But her own are filled with much emotion and a longing that her heart really did have pure intentions.

"I'm no asking for long, and I'll even talk to him through the bars with 10 people standing there listing. I just...would like to get the chanse to maybe help. Axel told me if anyone could help me it would be you, and that you'd understand better than you boss."

Stranger

"Yeah... okay." Jim nods in agreement. "No hurry for now, but if I get a chance to talk to Wes, I will and see what he has to say."

Hearing laughter coming from the direction of Sparky and Faith again, he looks in their direction. Shrugging lamely, he gets up from the table to prepare for lunch. "I'll catch you later."

Gunner closes his eyes for a moment and breaths a long sigh. Bree was safe. That's all he needed to know. Looking at Angelica again, he gives her a little nod. "Thank you." Relief was in his gaze now. As long as Bree was safe, he didn't care what happened.

He gives her another nod, knowing about Hope. He had figured she'd wind up at the ranch and was just as glad that apparently Scott had a good excuse. Gunner didn't like him being more involved but... he knew the others were smart enough not to get caught.

"I appreciate what you're doing, Angelica." And he meant it. "I know that sometimes I get myself into scrapes and I do things the wrong way but... whether you can get me out of here or not, I appreciate the effort. If you actually do hear anything more... I really would like to know somehow how Bree is and if she's alright after getting her out. They did some pretty nasty stuff to her. Don't know how to prove it but... I'm hoping JT has a handle on that."

Gage shakes his head and gives Sapphire a little smile. "No... I think I'd like to walk. I need some time to think. Thanks, though. I had a good time today."

Ambling around into her cubicle, he glances at what she's doing before reaching down to run a finger along her face. "You're too good to me, Saph. But I don't know what I'd do without you."

Bending down he gives her a soft kiss on the lips. "Call me tomorrow?"

Hearing an unfamiliar knock and sensing a stranger, a low growl comes from Trooper's throat and he stands up, walking a couple steps towards the door.

Jason looks up from his desk, cautious. "Easy,"

Trooper looks at him, then back at the door, standing down but still growling a little.

Jason puts a hand to the gun on his hip. "It's open," he calls.

The massive dog tenses as the door is opened, sniffing the air and letting his throat rumble.

Jason lifts an eyebrow, seeing the attractive dark haired woman. She did not look like a threat. He gives a short but sharp whistle.

Trooper immediately obeys, turning and ambling over to the end of the desk to lie down, though he still watches this newcomer.

Jason waves to the woman. "It's alright, you can come in. He won't bother you." He looks to her with question. "Can I help you?"

Fine, and Safe

Entering TJY Ryan just stands for a long moment a magazine in hand. She wasn't to sure why she was here, or even why she wanted to do this, but after talking with Axel a little Ryan just felt like she had. Maybe because her own brother was in the slammer, and she couldn't see him. Maybe this would...help her deal? She never told Eli is bothered her, or even Leo. Talking about John was just...something she didn't do.

Stopping at a cubicle and asking for directions Ryan new it wouldn't be easy to see Alec. She couldnt just walk down where he was, be let in. No that would be way to easy, but Axel had warned her of that too. So when asked what she could do he simply said who she could talk with and might be able to help.

Finally finding Jason's office Ryan just stands there for a long moment her fist raised in the air. Was this a good idea? Would they even let her? Ryan could only hope. Knocking she waits someone one to answer the door, maybe even Jason himself, unless he had a secretary.

Thanking for a long moment Annie gives a thoughtful nod.wondering herself how they would approach Sparky. The last thing they would want was him to is they were attacking him.

"Wes has always been the wise one. Maybe it would be best if you talked to him first about it. What ever it comes down to though I know we need to talk to Sparky. At least maybe let him know to stop and think for a moment, so in case Faith is using him he can come to his sences."

Looking down at her papers and tapping her pencil on the table she shakes her head again and lets out a long sigh. She still hated this, it just felt wrong, but seeing Sparky with Faith didn't seem right ether. Maybe because it was her friend, and her older brother. Maybe it was the age that bothered her, or maybe it was the fact they had been kissing already and they only just met.

Finishing writing the one line she had in her head Sapphire looks up and gives a smile at Gage. He was leaving quicker than she had thought, but his face seemed to hold a different glow than normal. It wasn't a bad one, but one that showed a tiny bit of peace.

"Are you sure you don't want a ride? Its cold out there, and well honestly I don't really wannaa be at work right now. So I wont mind driving you!"

Listing to Gunner a wrinkle forms in Angelica's for head as her mind starts to process everything. Taking in everything Gunner said and keeping it on her memory note pad where no one could find it, if they tried to look. Seeing the worry in Gunner's eyes Angelica could see how much he cared for Bree and it just drove the steak to work harder to bring them together once agian.

"Gunner, I over herd something....that I probably should have. Scott and Hope are going out to Texas, Scott says he needs to pick up TJY equipment...but being a laywer his eyes betray him. I didn't know Hope was going with him as first and than when I overheard she was...well...I think its for good reason, and it just might help."

Angelica leans forward a little her eyes trying to offer all the hope she could to Gunner, trying to at least try to ease his worry a little.

"JT and Bree are just fine, and safe. The condition they are in, I don't know but if I find anything out I will make sure to tell you."

Straghting again Angelia holds her hands on the table once again as she just watches Gunner for a long moment Studying him, not saying a word. Till finally she broke the silence once again.

"I do know David, he actualy was my partner for many years and runs my office in Cali. I think luck might be on our side with that one. I'm going to give him a call and get all the information I can from him.I'll work hard, and long but I promise you Gunner I will do all I can for, you, JT, Bree, and anyone else who might be involved in this. I wont let you guys down."

Typing away at his computer Dalton had two windows open, switching back and forth between them, he did personal work, and some work for TJY. Sharing his time between them both he seemed focused. While Scott was gone he was doing his own research, and hacking. He couldn't sit back and do nothing even if that's what Gunner wanted. He had to help them, he had to help Bree. He'd go crazy himself if he didnt.

Talking

"I wasn't spying," Jim defends. "I just looked up and hello! It wasn't like I was following them around looking for it."

Sighing again, he nods as Annie talks. "Yeah... I don't feel so hot myself. But what are we supposed to say? 'Hey, what do you think you're doing?' I don't know how to approach it with him. Nothing seems appropriate. But we're his siblings, ya know? I mean, we look out for each other. We're not gossiping, we're just concerned is all. I don't know... maybe that's how we should approach it."

Jim pauses glancing out the window to think for several moments. "Maybe Wes would have a better idea. Who knows... maybe he knows more than we do so he can explain it. Want me to ask him?"

Trent eyes what's going on around him, seeing Sparky and Faith, then Jim and Annie. Just watching for a few minutes, he looks back down to his little notepad and tears out a sheet to crumple it up and toss it into the nearby fireplace. Rubbing his forehead, he writes again.

Gage is genuinely surprised by Katie's response, and for a moment or two, he just stares at her, his mouth open slightly. "Um... thank you."

He nods a little. "I don't... have many friends, but... but I know you're honest and loyal. I'm... I'm humbled that you'd want to be my friend."

Standing awkwardly, he finally turns to go. "Thank you again," he says quietly. "I'll see you around."

He walks back down through the cubicles, his mission accomplished. It was different... it felt... strange but good at the same time. It was definitely a humbling experience, and quite honestly, one he hadn't expected. It was one thing for Sapphire to think he was okay, but even Katie, who had gone through so much... he wondered if this is what Carson felt like when Jamie had forgiven him.

Making it to Sapphire's desk, he leans over the wall, watching her. "I'm gonna go home now," he mentions. "Thanks for bringing me."

Months. That's what it had become. Days had turned to weeks, and weeks had multiplied on top of each other. And Alec was going crazy.

Pacing the room downstairs next to the holding cell that had been converted into his living quarters, he throws a pillow, letting it crash against the wall. He glares at his ankle bracelet. He was allowed to roam TJY all right... but he never did. What was the point? This was worse than prison. At least in prison he'd have company. Here, people passed by on accident, or it was Hal bringing him his meals and clean clothes. Dani hadn't come since she'd made the mistake of helping him escape. Carson never dared show his face.

That thought brings a crooked smile to Alec's face. He had the upper hand on that one, apparently. But this whole thing stunk. Reese said they were working on it. He said that the case was stuck in the system because he didn't want him to go to prison. But what was the point? If he was stuck here or prison, what difference did it make? Why did Gage get out so easily?

Alec knew good and well it was because Gage was cooperative. But the guy was weak. He'd caved too easily. Not Alec. No... no, he would not cave. He would not be broken.

Sinking down on the cot, he growls and runs his hands through his hair. This was stupid. His conscience reminds him that last time he'd gotten out, he'd almost had his head blown off from the Agency. What was to say next time he got out, that wouldn't happen again? He replays that night like he had time and time again. He remembers the strange longing for safety, finding it only temporarily in the woman he'd met at the bar. He should have taken her up on her offer of her spare room that night. How  things would be different if he had. And that night, he had felt more lost than ever before, knowing that both the Elite and Agency wanted him. He'd had nowhere to turn and he'd never had that before that night.

Something deep down had cracked open that night, allowing just a small glimpse into the heart of a young man who desperately needed to belong. But just as quickly, he'd shut it up tight again, turning right around like a cornered animal and fighting his way out. Unfortunately, he'd been caught. And now... now he was here. He was tired, bored and frustrated.

Reese said soon... soon they'd get him in a program. But Alec knew that he himself was the problem. Someone like Gage, they could play however they wanted. But Alec? No... he made it too difficult for them so they just ignored him, leaving him here to rot.

A cackle escapes and he throws another pillow. Maybe he really had won. They didn't know what to do with him... he was a rare case, yessiree. He'd thrown them for a loop. He'd show them. Just wait.

But deep down, way deep down, something else was cracking. He was getting tired. And no man could live like this and not feel loneliness in the pit of their spirit.

Gunner chuckles as he concentrates on his doodling. "What? You think I don't want to get out of here? That I like having my ankles chained together, wearing this green jumpsuit and eating food that tastes like cardboard? If I didn't want to talk to you, why would I have asked for you?"

He falls silent for at least two full minutes, seeming to be lost far, far away. Eventually though, he looks back up at Angelica, a wry grin on his face. "Silence can drive a man mad, you know that? Temporary insanity, that's what I vote for. That's the only way they'll let me off. 'Course... maybe they'll throw me back in the loony bin then."

Sighing deeply, he fiddles with the pen in his hand. His eyes become serious. "Look, Bree's not crazy. Her parents got her thrown back into Crescentview. Something about money. JT's lawyer couldn't get far enough in the time we needed it, so we sprung her. Now, I'm hoping they're somewhere safe, though last I heard, JT's car was abandoned."

Worry courses through his veins as it had since he'd gotten here. "Yes, JT and I had help, but I'm not telling you who it was. What I will tell you is this - David Croughton has all the legal information we had before going after Bree. I have a hunch you might know him since he's a big California lawyer. Only problem is, he couldn't prove anything. Couldn't get deep enough. The only hope we have is proving Bree isn't crazy and either plea temporary insanity for me or convince a brainless judge that what I did was justified. As for JT, I'll tell anybody to their face that I forced him to help me... I don't want him separated from Bree. She needs him."

Spy!

Going her own separate way Sapphire new Gage had a reason he wanted to be here, and she also new he would be ok. In a little while she would see him again before he left.

Walking to her own cubicle Sapphire couldn't help the smile on her face. It had been a really good day, and she had enjoyed her time with her friends. She could only hope there were many more to come.

Typing away on the keybored Katie tried to catch up with some work she had fallen behind on. It seemed over the last few days more and more reports had come in, not to mention she told Susanne she would help her out with a few things she needed to enter into there data base, and not it just seemed like a never ending pile of mush.

Hearing the knock on her cubicle wall and hearing her name Katie looks up for a moment. It wasn't Jason, she would of been able to tell and she wasnt sure of the voice. Turning from the computer and seeing Gage Katie couldn't help the surprise that passed in her eyes. The last person she had expected to be standing there was Gage.

Listing to him as he pushed his way through his appoligy, and seeing the look of hesitation in his eyes Katie had to give him alot of credit on him coming to her. Searching his eyes for a long moment Katie looks to see if he was being genuine Seeing in his eyes that he was, a soft smile spreads on Katie's face.

"I forgive you Gage.Water under the bridge they like to say."

Katie's heart was so big, it happened to be a Pent trate, she had no problem looking at Gage, seeing his change and being able to forgive him. Would she feel awkward around him...maybe a little at first but she was like that with Carson too.

"I hope we can become friends Gage! You seem like a really nice guy."

Shaking her head and giving a laugh she new Jim didn't mean to scar her. She he just been so deep in the paper work that needed to be done she had lost track of everything around her.

Continuing to listen Annie cant help the look of surprise that passed on her face, but she was not sure if it was surprise from Jim spying or surprise at Sparky's actions.

"I new you were going to keep an eye out on them...but Spying? Thats a little much isnt it?"

Annie new her brother wouldnt spy on anyone she just found it odd he new all this stuff without actually talking to Sparky first. Though pushing that aside a new worry sank in. She had known Faith for a while now, she had even lived with her and this seemed out of place for her quiet friend too. Was it wrong to have braught Faith here? Thinking a long moment about her Jim's question Annie looks over at the table with Sparky and Faith. They both...did seem happy, but was it only skin deep? Jim had her second guessing herself now too.

"I mean, Faith has nothing left in Thailand like I had told you before. Her mother is gone, and her father is in the hospetil. For almost 10 years now she told me she has been on her own.  She never had any brothers and sisters....so I mean she has no one and she took care of herself just fine all that time."

Looking back to Jim Annie's eyes held a little concern of her own. It was just so out of character.

"I dont think...she would be using Sparky. Faith just doesn't seam like that kind of person or so I thoughts. I dont think its wrong to be worryed eather....but if its really bothering you that much maybe we should have a talk with Sparky instead of guessing and talking behind his back. It kind of makes me feel crappy."

She really didnt like talking or thinking bad things about her brother and friend, but no the seed of dount had been planted and it ran wild. Annie had only though Faith and Sparky had taken to being friends quickly and was happy. They both needed friends and now...she wondered if it was still ok.

Concerned

Con laughs and rubs his ribs where Jamie had elbowed him. Instead of complaining though, he pulls her to his side and leans down to kiss the top of her head. "I'm not on anything. I'm just a growing boy and you know growing boys need their naps."

Waving to Gage and Sapphire, he says his farewells. "Catch you two later at work. Been fun."

Watching the couple walk away, Gage turns back to Sapphire and nods. "Yeah... yeah, I still want to come."

He heads for her car and waits for it to be unlocked before getting in. Though so often quiet, the ride to TJY seemed even more quiet than normal. Gage seemed lost in his own world again.

Arriving to the Elite headquarters, Gage hesitates before getting out of the car with Sapphire. There were a lot of reasons he didn't like this place. He'd been cooped up for so long. Whether he knew these were good people or not, it hadn't been the most pleasant experience being here.

He finally does follow Sapphire though, his walk one of defeat. Entering the building and making it down to the main floor, he looks across the cubicles. A few people had left early. But most everyone was still working for the afternoon. He sees Jason wandering back down the hall, Susanne on her way to make copies, and Reese disappearing into his office at the far end. Nothing much had changed.

Looking to Sapphire, Gage gives a little nod. "I'll let you know when I'm leaving. Thanks for the lift."

Once separated, he just stands for the longest time, his mind working through the purpose for which he was here. Eventually he steps forward, feeling like his feet were lead weights. But he knew where he needed to go. After Jamie's talk and after witnessing her friendship with Carson.. something told him this was right. And he wanted to do what was right.

Arriving to the little cubicle, he stands in the doorway for several moments, hearing the keys on the keyboard clicking in rhythm with the typing. Finding the nerve to knock on the wall, he does, waiting to be seen. "Katie?"

Getting her attention, he stares her in the eye, his own expression hard to read. "I didn't want to bother you," he mentions quietly. "I just... I came with Sapphire and..." His eyes roam her face. He sees the marks that would always be a reminder of what had happened. Was this what Carson felt? Or did it ever go away? He swallows hard, his mouth having gone dry.

"...I... I just wanted to...um... say I'm... I'm sorry." He looks at her lamely, really not knowing what else to say. "For... for hurting you." He knew that he hadn't been the one to actually do most of the damage, but his participation was bad enough. His eyes drop to the floor, half expecting Katie to turn him away. He didn't deserve forgiveness.

"Whoa, sorry." Jim's eyes widen slightly as he startles Annie. "I didn't mean to sneak."

Glancing over to see Sparky and Faith laughing at another table, he looks back to Annie, his voice still quiet. "Riding double with his arms around her? Do guests normally kiss us when they get off the horse?"

His eyebrow quirks, showing that he was positive now from watching the two's behavior that there was more there than just casual friendship. "I'm not saying anything's wrong," he emphasizes. "It's..."

Letting his sentence trail off, he eases down into a chair next to his sister. "I don't know. Something just feels off. Like I don't know... you know Faith a whole lot better than anybody else and I try not to judge people before I know them but... I don't know... is she... looking for someone to take care of her? Or... help out after her surgery or something? I just..."

He really didn't want it to sound like he thought Faith had bad intentions. He didn't believe she was that kind of person - he was just trying to figure out motives here. "...I don't want anybody to get hurt. Sparky's been down lately and I would hate to see him jump in the wrong direction. I mean... I know age doesn't always matter but..."

He sighs, trying to sum up what he really meant. "I'm just concerned. I want to make sure that there's some wisdom here and not just a whim or some tactic we don't know about." He searches Annie's face. "Am I wrong to be concerned?"

Daylights

Angelica rolls her eyes at Gunner he was....different and she'd probably never understand his seance of humor though once and a while he even made her laugh.

Reaching into her briefcase she takes out a pen and a peace of paper handing it to Gunner. Letting out another sigh she just watchs him for a moment before she continues to talk.

"Gunner, your going to need to talk to me if you want my help. This is a secure room with no way for them to hear us. I made sure myself, and if they have gone against that than well, they will be going to jail for breaking them law."

She didn't want to be harsh, she was only concerned for Gunner. His time was running out and her own window of opportunity was closing fast. Getting the order from a judge that she happend to know quite well to be able to talk to Gunner with no one else was a chore in itself, but she had done it, and he even threw in that if someone when against it they would be arrested.

"Your time is running out Gunner, and so is mind for being here. We need to work quickly to get you out of here. I want to help you, its not really my cup of tea to see you in jail and I'd like to get you out as soon as I can. But you need to talk."

Angelica's eyes held there concern and there willingness to help her friend. When it came to anything at TJY she was always more than willing to help.

The movie was enjoyable and the darkend theater was a great time for Sapphire to take Gage's hand once and a while. Even though they had been to the movies before Sapphire would never grow tired of it. Sometimes just seeing the looks on Gage's face made it worth wile. His eyes would light up, and for just a little while he would be carefree.

Once the movies was over and they were all back in the parking lot it seemed no one wanted to go back to work. They had all had such a nice time that more work would rune it.

Jamie gives a playful elbow to Con as her streaches.

"You always just want to take a nap. I think your on permahybranate."

Laughing Jamie gives a nod to Gage and a smile. Turning to him before she got into the car.

"It was very nice spending the day with you Gage. We will have to do it again soon. If you end up coming by TJY with Sapphire, dont be shy to say Hi."

Giving a laugh at her two friends Sapphire loved seeing them interact. They were in so in love and so comfortable around each other it was great to see the light in each of there eyes that still burned for one another.

Bringing her attachen back to Gage Sapphire gives a small nod of her head though she really wanted to shake it and just play hookie for the rest of the day. But with her brother being out of town Reese would kill her.

"I really don't want to but I guess I should head back before everyone things I got lost. Would you still like to come?"

As lunch starts Faith takes what had become now her normal seat next to Sparky. With others gathered around like normal Faith was going to ask Annie to join the table as well but she had taken note when coming in that she was busy at one of the far tables with some paper work and didn't want to desterb her.

Sitting at the small table by the window Annie was so indeepth in her paperwork that she didn't even hear Jim come over. But hearing his voice gives her a start as it brings her out of the paper transe with a jump.

"My gosh Jim did you have to scare the ever living daylights out of me. You cant just sneek up on someone like that."

Setting her pen down and gathering some of the paperwork together in a pile making room for him to sit Annie looks over to the tale where Sparky and Faith were sitting laughing and just enjoying themselves with some of the others. Looking back at her brother she cocks her head a little with question on her face.

"And what makes you say that now?"