Always

Raising an eyebrow at Pete again Trey gives a little shake of his head. Maybe he was right about the badge, maybe he was just full of himself too, but he did a agree about someone wearing there pants half down there butt.

"I always hate seeing how scummy some people can dress. I never did understand that and why a woman would go gaga over that."

Taking a sip of his own drink Trey looks back to Pete as he asks what his deal is. Raising an eyebrow at the nickname it seemed he'd been giving he shakes his head.

"T huh...I think I might like it."

Leaning back in the booth again and sliding the napkin from under his silverware setting it on the table and picking at it for a moment Trey thinks about his answer before looking up at Pete again and crossing his arms over his chest. Just thinking about it made him upset all over again.

"I'm here because my parents though it would be safer to ship me off to a place where drug lords and mobsters can get to me. As soon as everything it cooled down though I am going back to my life in Mexico where I like it. "

Thinking again for a moment Trey looks out the window just watching the people walk around outside. He'd been a prisoner for so long and he didn't even know it, still even now. But now he was at TJY unable to leave, or go about doing as he wanted so he was trapped. A caged lion just wanting to be set free.

"I didn't choose to come here I was forced, and if I expect my parents to send me money and the stuff I need like they said they would I got to play along. I highly doubt being locked inside a building to eat, sleep and hardly breath all day was in there idea though."

Rolling his eyes he sits up again and leans on the table. Pete was different he seemed, more to be the one who would bend the rules and maybe that would work out in Trey's favor.

"So whats up with you? Where you always one of the guys who took order from Reese?"

Just moving from room to room in Justin's house Beth looked at pictures and other things he had hanging on his wall. He had a good taste in decorating his house. Going through the whole house Beth finds herself back at Justin's office looking around a little more while he finished up on the phone.

Once he was done though Beth stops her looking around and stand her arms crossed in front of her. Giving a small smile she new he had work to do.

"Your life's not so bad. Least you don't have to deal with drunks. Well...I don't...think you do anyways."

Taking a few more steps twords his desk Beth thinks for a moment about his comment with cleaning the gutters. She'd looks at almost everything in his house already paying close mind to the pictures he had and studying the faces well. Maybe outside outside was be nice.

"Can...I help you?"

Gutters

Pete grins back at Trey with a sly look, keeping himself from glancing back to Nikki even though he wanted to. "See this?" He holds up his badge and thumps it. "Chick magnet, Dog. Girls dig the whole macho protector thing. If I'da come in here with pants halfway down my butt and start shooting off arrogant crap from the top of my head, they'd never give me a look again." He squints one eye knowingly. "But a guy like me whose got clean-cut suave? Now that gets phone numbers."

His grin turns into a wide smile as he takes a sip of his water. "Ait, so what's your game, T? You on the run or just hanging out here til a storm blows over?"


Justin grins and nods as he chews his salad. "Yeah, we'd try to hit targets and everything. You get the watermelons with the big black seeds, they're just begging to become slimy projectiles."

Once lunch was over, Justin invites Beth to explore the house or stay in the living room or come with him to his office, though it was a bit cluttered. For the next hour, he had calls to make...

"...yeah, hi, Mrs. Slack, did you get that new cord in the mail? Great. You couldn't get it plugged in? Oh... no, that needs to go in the back of your tower, ma'am..."

"...just hold down the function key and... no, you just closed the window instead of quitting the application..."

"...alright, Greg, you got a Mac or PC?"

"...right, okay, now... what was that? Well, now you'll have to reboot."

"...no, ma'am, that's for your internet."

"...I'm sorry, but I have nothing to do with your local provider, you'll have to call them. No, I can't call them for you, you will have to call them and explain the bill to them yourself."

"...make your window smaller, sir. No, just click on the corner of.... no, the screen... the window... what do you see in front of you?"

...Groaning, Justin leans back in his chair and swivels around, putting his back to his computer. Another day of wondering why on earth he'd advertised for tech support. Oh yeah - so he could pay his bills.

Yawning, he glances to Beth who was looking around the office at the pictures on the wall, knick knacks on the shelves and trying not to trip over the filing boxes on the floor. "Welcome to my life." He grins. "It gets better. Now I get to go clean gutters."


Alec's mouth twitches, wanting to smile. "We never even had this conversation." He waves a hand, more than willing to leave Dalton's name out of it, should anything happen. And besides, he wasn't planning on anything but going to the races then coming back.

Working a few more moments, he then gives Dalton another glance. The big man was alright.

Intresting

Seeing that Pete remembered her Nikki's face lite up a little more as the nervous feeling passed and now it was more of an excited one. She was hoping her friends would still remember her and though she had changed in ten years she still looked almost the same minus the braces and no glasses.

Taking Phil's number for a moment Nikkie felt a little bad but than glancing down at his badge and seeing it she was a bit surprised to know Pete was in with law now but understood as well he must be on a job.

Still holding her smile and giving a nod she rocks on her heels for a moment before slipping the number into her purse and thinking for a moment. This afternoon she did have some to do but tonight she might be free.

"Seven...I think I can handle that."

Letting her hand bush Pete's for a moment she brings them back to her side one holding her purse and the other one at her side.

"I'll see you tonight again. It was great seeing you even if for only a few moments. Take care Pete."

Turning and heading the other way Nikki goes to one of the other tables and sits down to eat crossing her legs under the table and than pulling out a book to start to read.

Entering the restront again Trey tucks some money into his pocket before walking forward more. Starting to the table once again he catches sight of the woman who was walking away from Pete.

Raising an eyebrow and sliding back into the booth Trey looks over to where she was sitting and than back to Pete.

"You have you own fan club? Who was that smoking blond?"

Trey can't help but look to the table again and than back to Pete. She was really pretty and he couldn't believe how many girls Pete got second looks from.

Looking down at the water and hearing that Justin wasn't just going to leave her high and dry it made Beth feel a little more warmth. It felt good not being pushed aside and having someone who really wanted to spend time with her.

"Spitting seeds? I think...that sounds interesting."

Reaching over and taking another peace of watermelon Beth pops it into her mouth and chews on it. Last time she had watermelon it was a long time ago and she had forgotten the tast on how sweet it was.

Giving Alec a sidelong glance at his question Dalton looks back for his computer for a moment. Not saying anything right away to Alec again as the quiet is filled with clicking of computer keys. Letting out a sigh his mind works. Alec wanted to leave, he'd more than likely want to go see his girl and he always did come back. Maybe just this once he could do this for once.

"I'm going to be here late tonight trying to figure this stuff out so I think I can do that for you, but don't make me reget it or I'll come after you myself."

Dalton looks to Alec for a moment his mouth curling a little into a grin that his last part was joking, but if it came down to it he would.

On Duty

"Yeah." Pete waves off Trey, letting him go outside. He turns to his glass of water, but one eye stays on a picture on the wall that had just enough reflection for him to see Trey's figure outside the front door. He remains relaxed though, seemingly and perhaps strangely, confident that the younger man would return on his own.

Lost in his own thoughts about his current task, the approaching woman startles him. Looking up quickly, his eyebrows rise slightly as he takes in the woman's features. Nikki... Nikki... he racks his brain.

"I..." He squints a little, trying to figure out if he really knew her or not. Nikkie Keller... the name did ring a bell. And she'd called him Peter. No one had called him that in a long time. Then it dawns on him. His eyes widen in total surprise and almost shock at seeing her. "Nikki Keller... of course."

Still shocked, he tries to clear the cobwebs from old memories. Yes, it had been a long time. He was impressed she'd recognized him at all. Last time she'd probably seen him, he'd been quite a bit huskier with a head of hair, let alone he'd been much younger. "Wow." A grin slowly comes to his lips. But just as quickly, it fades. Right now was not a good time to socialize. He was right in the middle of keeping steady a stick of dynamite and one wrong move could blow the whole thing. His eyes flash back to the picture on the wall to make sure he could still see Trey's reflection.

Thinking quickly, Pete grabs a napkin and fishes a pen out of his pocket to scribble down his cell phone number. Before he hands it to Nikki though, his eyes automatically drift over her left hand. Giving his number to a married woman would not be such a great idea, but he finds her ring finger empty. "Here." His eyes lock with hers. "If you can't meet me back here at seven tonight, call me."

Leaning back a little, he reaches to his belt where he shows his Elite badge as a warning he was on duty. He didn't want to brush her off or make her feel badly but the timing just wasn't so great right now. More than likely, this would come as a surprise to her - ten years ago, Pete was struggling to make it in college and was as far away from law enforcement as anyone. Nikki probably didn't even know about his mother who had passed at least a year after Nikki had moved away.

Pete's eyes linger on hers for a moment, as if apologizing and asking her not to feel slighted by this short greeting. He really did want to see her - catching up with old friends was always fun and he'd had some really good times hanging out with her and his brother. He didn't know if she was back in town just visiting or even if she had time to meet him at another time, but it was all he could offer right now. And if not, she had his number so hopefully he'd catch up to her again at some point.


Justin chuckles and shakes his head. "Yeah, that was her. If Ma finds out she called, she'll be all over it."

Looking up quickly at Beth's next comment, he gives her a look that wasn't irritated, but it was meant as a slight chide. "Do you really think I'm the type to dump you or go back on my word about fishing? It's first come first serve around here. You were first and I said we were going, so that's that. Rebecca can wait and if she can't then she isn't worth seeing."

Nodding with finalization, he starts in on his salad. Seeing Beth liked the watermelon, he grins. "My brother and I used to have seed spitting contests."


Alec moves back out of Dalton's way for a few moments, his eyebrows raised a bit. It was weird that he had just really helped and hearing that if it hadn't been for him, they wouldn't have latched on to this. He'd... actually helped with something? Really? More than just boring filing work?

He shrugs lamely. "You're...welcome." Looking back to the computer screen, he just sits for a moment before putting his hands back on the keyboard. "Yeah I don't have anything better to do... until tonight." He gives Dalton a sidelong glance, wondering if he could trust the big man. "You don't think you could shut down the locks for, oh, about thirty seconds tonight, do you?" He knew Reese could track him if he used a security card to sneak out again, and he was planning on returning before daybreak, but anything to avoid more hassles would be worth it.

Friendly faces

Looking up at the waitress as she comes to the table and than turning his head just slightly to Pete a smirk cross Trey's face once more. He could read's Pete's mind and thought it was quiet humerus. This TJY agent as Reese liked to call them seemed much different from the other ones.

A smart comment lay on the tip of Trey's tong and he so badly wanted to ask the waitress if he could order her but something makes him refrain from the comment. Giving the waitress his order Trey waits for her to leave before turning to Pete again.

"That waitress was eye balling you man. She had the looks but... I don't know if she had the personalty for you or not. She defiantly didn't pass up giving you a once over yourself though."

Straightening in his seat a little and looking around the dinning area once more Trey's eyes moves the room just taking everything in and his surroundings. Coming back to Pete though he is quite surprised when he was now told he could go smoke alone. Just studying his face for a moment Trey wonders if Pete was stupid, or very trust worthy not to think Trey would run.

"Alright, I'll be back than."

Getting up from the booth Trey makes his way back how they came stepping outside passing an attractive blond on the way. Stepping out onto the sidewalks and moving around to the far corner of the building he pulls out his pack of smokes and his lighter. For the moment nicotine was his out.

Entering the dinner a medium high woman enters. Pushing one side of her short blond hair behind her ear she lets her bright green eyes scan the dinner almost as if looking for someone. Letting her eyes rest on Pete her face lights up a little more a smile spreading across her lips. It was just her luck and surprise that he really was here today.

Walking over to Pete's table the woman only hoped it was really who she had been looking for. She was ninety percent sure it was him because his looked hadn't change that much but it had been ten years so some stuff did seem different.

"Peter Kriston? It's Nikki, Nikki Keller....its been a while. How are you?"

Nikkie waited for his reply waiting to see if it was Pete and if he even remembered her. Her heart pounded in her chest as she waiting hoping she didn't look to foolish.

Turning from the photo's on the wall and taking the water Beth gives a small smile and her thanks as she takes a small sit. Looking around the kitchen some more and watching as Justin starts to cut the watermelon she gives a little jump to the phone but recovers when knowing what it was.

As Justin goes for it Beth does her best to mind her own business till finally she wonders to one of the stools by the counter and pulls it out to site on. Sitting her glass down she raises a hand in a no thanks manor to the watermelon. She really wasn't all the hungry at the moment.

Just continuing to mind her own business she gives Justin a smile once he was off the phone other than feeling slightly bad that she was in the middle of keeping him from being with his....friend?

"It's ok. Was...that the girl your mom is trying to set you up with? You could of went with her...and we could fish another time. I wouldn't have minded to much."

Beth didn't want to stand in Justin's way and if he would have more fun with someone else than by all means she would want him to go with her. She was a stick in the mud who was trying new things and she new it. Maybe if she broke out on her own first than she could be more fun to hang out with.

Finally leaning over the counter just a little Beth takes a peace of the watermelon and pops it into her mouth before giving a small smile.

"Mmm...not bad."

Continuing to listen to Alec Dalton goes back to his own work on his computer though keeps his attachen on Alec as well as he works away on the other. He might as well continue to work a little bit on his own work and not put it aside completely right now.

Hearing thought that someone was hacking into there system through a back door though Dalton's head shoots up as she wheels his hand in one stride over to Alec again looking over her shoulder.

"What...how...."

Leaning over Alec's shoulder for a moment Dalton types a few things into the computer pulling up a few more screens only to come up empty handed. He was going to really have to dig more to be able to do anything.

"Who ever it was covered there tracks. I'm doing to have to do some real chipping work on this. Here....I'm going to link up the computers for a second and transfer that to here, so I can work from my own computer."

Opening his drawer and pulling out a cord Dalton hooks it to his computer and than to the computer Alec was at. Entering a few things into his computer he walks Alec through a simple steps on that one till the files, information, and all over stuff Alec had done to that computer was now replaced on his screen so he could work on it more.

"There we go now I can work on this from the comfort of my own desk. I need to tell Reese about this though. If you wanna keep working there you can."

Taking out his cell and dialing Reese's number Dalton got the voice mail like he new he would since he was out with Angelica at the moment but leaving a message in this case was no problem.

"Boss, we got a problem I need you to call me as soon as you can."

Hanging up the phone he looks over at Alec for a long moment before giving a nod.

"Thanks Alec, if it hadn't been for you we never would of known."

Pulling away a little and giving a smile to Ryder Thirteen was happy he'd let them work on his leg again. Not for her own personal gain but for Ryder. If he couldn't walk anymore she new how miserable he would be. Ryder didn't like to sit still and to be stuck not being able to walk it would kill him.

"Ok, as soon as they say your released we can get out of here, and start life again. Maybe...I'll even cook dinner for you if your nice to me."

Thirteen gives a little laugh as she leans her head on top of his for a moment and than gives him a strong hug.

Go ahead

Pete scans the menu and chuckles at Trey's comment about the women. "Yeah, there are some around here that aren't too bad looking."

Quirking an eyebrow at the question of returning outside. "Nope. No smoking in here, so-"

"Alright, are you two ready to order?"

Pete looks up at the perky waitress, giving her a once-over then glancing to Trey with a wry grin that he knew he would catch. "I think so. I want an omelet..."

It only takes a few moments to take both orders and the waitress is gone again. Pete thumbs to the door. "Go ahead and take your smoke. I'll hold the table."


"Water I got. Good well water too." Getting a glass and some ice from the freezer, Justin heads for the sink to fill up the glass with cool water. His eyes wander to Beth as she looks at the pictures and he lets her be.

"Alright, here we go." He sets the glass down on the counter. "I think I'm going to have some salad... ooh, looks like I got some watermelon left too. Better eat more of that before it goes bad."

Retrieving the half-melon from the fridge, he sets it on a cutting board and grabs a long knife from a drawer. Just ready to cut into it, the phone rings. Sighing, he goes ahead and cuts the watermelon, letting the answering machine pick up.

"Hey, Justin, it's me, Rebecca. Your mom gave me your number and I just thought I'd call to-"

Justin's head shoots up from the watermelon. Skirting into the living room, he grabs the cordless phone. "Rebecca... I'm here. What's up?" Wandering back into the kitchen, he cradles the phone between his chin and shoulder as he continues to cut up the watermelon. "Yeah, I'm good. You?"

Setting the watermelon on a large plate, he wipes off the counter and sets the plate on the table. Whispering, he speaks to Beth. "Help yourself." Walking back to the fridge, he keeps up his phone conversation. "Mm-hmm... yeah. No, that's okay. I just got back a few minutes ago." With both hands full, he kicks the fridge door shut and starts cutting up lettuce for a salad, then adds just a few chopped onions, part of a green pepper and some carrots, topped with a bit of shredded cheese. "Uh-huh... sounds great. Yeah, I'm probably heading back there this week sometime. Right..." He laughs. "She likes to tell everyone everything."

Putting the stuff away, he puts the large bowl of salad on the table, retrieving two smaller bowls in case Beth changed her mind, and he also brings out a couple different kinds of dressing. "This afternoon?" He pauses. "Naw, I got a friend here and we're going fishing in a bit. Thanks, though. Maybe another time. Yeah... okay. Alright, sure. Yep, got it. Thanks, Rebecca. Talk to you later."

Ending the call, he sets the phone on the kitchen counter and goes to the table, sitting down to get himself some salad, unsure if Beth wanted to sit too or not, but just leaving it open for her to decide. "Sorry about that."


Alec keeps working, but pauses to sift through the files again. "Yeah, that was a weird one. I woulda thought the Agency would have taken the guy in, not kill him on the spot. But the... a security risk is a security risk and they don't play around."

Finding the file, he nods. "Heard that name before but didn't make the connection. Don't think I ever met him - he was in some higher stuff, probably a clean-cut character on the outside. Not surprised if the Agency wants her dead now though if she's got info. That's a given."

Continuing his work, he takes a side venture, looking up a few things about the information Destiny had turned in. "Hey, did you know you got some outsider accessing Agency files about this?" He points to the screen. "Username is Gambler. I though everyone here had to go through the TJY database to get their information. Though whoever it was knew how to get in the backdoor - if I hadn't happened into this, it wouldn't have shown up anywhere else."


Ryder sighs deeply, reaching his one hand up to cradle Thirteen's head as she leaned it down on his. "Okay... they can do surgery again." If he were crippled up, he wouldn't be very much good to her anymore. "But I'm out of here the minute he says I'm released."

Good Stuff

Taking the ride with Pete it was a little more careless than Trey would of expected. Thought Trey didn't mind at all it how his friends drove all the time. Getting to the restrant and seeing the woman himself Trey sits up in the seat a little bit and watches her himself cocking his head. Turning his head just a little to look at Pete a grin pass his lips before he jumps out of the car.

Following Pete inside and sliding into the booth across from him Trey reaches for a menu and looks over it. He really wasn't in the mood for breakfast and he didn't know what was good here, but seeing the Philly cheese steak he new not many people could mess that one up.

Setting the menu down he looks across the table at Pete before around the little restrant. Taking in the faces, and the people noting more pretty women around the room and than looking back to Pete again.

"Well I have to hand one thing to this country they sure do have a lot of pretty lady's, not that Mexico doesn't but they are few and far between there."

Taking a sip of the drink that was brought Trey gives a little chuckle before leaning back in the booth and stretching.

"I suppose they don't let you smoke in here do they? And I don't suppose you really wanna walk outside with me again after we just sat down?"

Following Justin to his house it wasn't to hard. The roads were pretty straght forward with not many cars on them to get in the way. Justin was right though it was very pretty here with lots to look at.

Coming to the house and parking Beth gets out of her car leaving her doors unlocked knowing it would be alright all the way out here. Following Justin into the house Beth looks around. It wasn't a bad little house just needed a little work.

"It's not that dirty, I've seen worse."

Wondering with Justin into the kitchen Beth keeps her arms wrapped around herself. Her eyes wondering taking in everything and trying to keep her nerves calmed. It had been a long time since she was in someone else house.

"Mmm...I'll have some water please and thank you."

Wondering over to on of the walls in the kitchen that had pictures hanging on it Beth's eyes scan them. Most of them looked like family pictures and pictures of his dogs as puppys. The smiling faces and laughter looked back at her. Justin's family looked nice, and his mom looked like she would be a great person to get along with. Beth wondered what it would be like to still have a family.

Continuing to watch Alec Dalton was so diligent in taking in what he was doing so if he ever needed to get in again maybe he could use some of the tricks. He always did like learning new things and thats why he liked having Scott around. Not only was he his good friend but he challenged his mind with new things.

"No if the Agency's walls were weaker there would be no fun in cracking them open. However I have been working on making our own defenses stronger it just takes a little time."

Dalton can feel his own excitement rise inside him as the moment tick on though he really didn't let it show unless someone looked close enough to see it in his eyes. But working with Alec was different that what he thought it might be.

"I think part of the files you got there is the stuff that girl brought in the one who's parents were killed. Maybe thats why the Agency is after here to now. She sure did bring us a bunch of good stuff though thats for sure."

Thirteen gives a nod knowing he did hate it here, and seeing a tiny bit of worry in his eyes. It was easy to pick out today because it was something that not often was there.

"I know, I would too. Its no fun being cooped up when you don't want to be. But the Dr is just taking to help."

Keeping Ryder's hand in her own Thirteen leans down and gives him a kiss on the for head before just leaning her own against his.

Pretty lady

Grinning a little, Pete ambles behind Trey, using the remote on his keys to unlock the car. Once in and started, he puts the roof down and dons his sun glasses, making sure Trey's got his seatbelt on before peeling out of the parking lot.

Heading down through town, he barely makes several red lights - perhaps they were orange as he went through the intersections. Radio on and wind blowing, he doesn't force conversation but just drives, heading for the quick little diner that had good fast breakfasts.

Parking diagonally on the curb, Pete cuts the engine. A pretty lady walks past and he tilts his head, looking over his sunglasses for a moment as his eyes follow her. Turning to Trey, he gives him a crooked grin before hopping over the convertible door. "Come on. Food here's good."

Getting inside, he hangs his sunglasses from his shirt and slides into a small booth near the window. "Grab a menu... breakfast stuff is good but sometimes I'm ornery and have them make me a hamburger or something instead."


Turning quickly to Beth, Justin grins and shakes his head. "Nope - haven't been waiting at all. I was just gonna go back and sit down, so you're fine."

Letting the dogs hop up into the truck behind the front seats, he shuts the passenger door. "Well, if you're ready, I'll lead the way. It's about an hour's drive, but the scenery is nice."

It doesn't take long to get out on the road and Justin leads, keeping a constant watch in his mirrors to make sure he didn't lose Beth. It wasn't too hard though - there weren't too many turns and traffic was light. It doesn't seem like an hour has passed by the time he pulls off onto the back roads and eventually winds back to his lane. Driving slowly, he tries to avoid some of the ruts and muses that some of the overhanging trees should be trimmed sometime.

Finally getting to the little clearing with his house, he parks on the gravel patch that used to look more like a driveway, but was now overgrown with grass. Getting out, he motions to Beth that she could park anywhere. Then letting the dogs out, they bound into the yard, growling and playing with each other, obviously happy to be home and knowing they were off duty now.

Waiting for Beth, Justin smiles and doesn't rush - he knew this was new to her and didn't want to push too much. It was her timing that was important, not his.

Leading the way inside, he lets Beth in but leaves the door open for now, just letting the screen door stay shut. Danitza and Zora obediently remain outside. Tossing his keys aside, Justin remains very casual. "Welcome to the living room. Sorry for the mess." It really wasn't messy - just a bit cluttered but not dirty. Shoes were here and there, his sad looking plants drooped near the window and the couch cushions weren't quite straight, but overall it wasn't bad.

"Make yourself at home," he offers as he wanders to the kitchen. "Don't know about you, but I'm hungry." He opens the refrigerator and peers in, scanning what he had. "I got stuff for salads... subs... got stuff to drink... want anything?"


Alec immediately starts the new task, glad to just have something to do. Hearing Dalton's comment, he grins a little too. "What - hacking into systems? Yeah."

Staring at the screen, he types and looks for where he needed to go. "Pity for the good guys that they have weaker walls than the bad guys. You'd think it would be the other way around. Can't tell you how much stuff the Agency has gotten from TJY before when no one was looking."


Ryder sighs, but returns a squeeze to Thirteen's hand. "Yeah. I know." Though his tone was irritated, there was something else behind his eyes that he usually kept well-hidden: worry. This was about as bad as he'd had it and it wasn't fun. "I just hate this place."

Aussie and Stubborn

Trey looks at the door, than Pete, than the car, back to the door, Pete and the car again before looking back to Pete. It was easy to see he really was contemplating weather he should go or stay, but when it came down to it, he didn't want to stay here so getting out even for a little while sounded good. Not to mention going against what Reese was forcing him to do was even better.

"I say Why the heck not, any excuse to get outta here is a good one. Lets blow this place."

Not waiting for Pete to change his mind Trey had turned around already and was heading to his car. Sticking his pack of smokes in his pocket. Getting to the car and finding the door's lock he waits for Pete.

Finished with her visit for the day it was a little longer than planned but it felt good. Some people might feel sorry for Beth that she came to see her sister everyday but it was the only family she had left, and she loved Sarah so much that it didn't bother her. She never had to come, but she wanted too. Maybe it was something that in a way...did make her happy.

Exiting the building and see Justin go to his car Beth's head pumps a little. Had he been waiting long and now thought she wasn't going to come? Skipping a few steps Beth walks a little faster down the side walk to get to his truck as he is opening the door. Continuing to just stand on the side walk she waits and than speaks.

"Sorry it took me longer than expected. You wernt waiting long were you?"

Beth gives a small little smile as she folds her hands in front of her. It was nice talking to Justin, and she enjoyed it. Still the thought of going to his place made her a little worried but maybe it wouldn't be that bad.

Looking to Alec and than the computer that Scott always had used Dalton gives a little nod of his head. He didn't mind if anyone used it.

"Yeah sure thing. Once you get as far as you can, I can try to work my own magic on it."

Looking at Alec for a long moment and searching his face Dalton's lips turn up into a small smile for a moment before he turns and looks back to the computer screen again to watch what Alec was doing.

"Have to admit this is the best part of the job."

Standing quietly in the room Thirteen just watch's JT, and Ryder. It was like this most days when the Dr came to see him. Ryder wanted out and grew more and more irritated that he couldnt be let go. In a way Thirteen felt bad for him.

As JT leaves the room Thirteen gives a nod to him about talking with him. Walking back over to the bed she takes his hand in hers and gives it a little squeeze. She understood he wanted to get out, she'd felt like that for so many years for the longest time, but he was here for a good reason.

"Hey...If you let him fix your leg again he'd probably let you out sooner than if you don't."

Thirteen wanted to tell Ryder how important it was to get his leg fixed but was now really a good time? He was already irritated and maybe she wouldn't help matters at all! She hated seeing Ryder upset, and in pain, she wished she could do more for him even though she couldn't. Maybe if he refused to get his leg fixed again she could talk to Carson. They both were Aussie and stubborn maybe he could get through to him.

Second time

"Well..." Pete grins a little, cocking his head at Trey. "I might not be known as a rule bender, but since Reese is gone for the moment, why not? And you're right - we don't spend much money on the break room food."

He pulls his keys from his pocket and thumbs toward his car. "Don't know what you're used to for breakfasts down in Mexico, but what we got isn't bad. What do you say?"


Justin smiles, hearing that Beth kept the butterfly. Giving her a little wave, he nods. "See you in a while."

He sits for a bit longer until he finally gets up and wanders to the other building where he needed to find Scott.

The day's session goes well and without incident. Though Scott is down, he's willing to play the matching game. There wasn't much improvement as far as deterring his brain's automatic mechanisms, but even the slightest improvement was good. By the time he and Justin are finished, it's close to noon.

Justin wanders back down the sidewalk, taking his time. The dogs amble behind him, sniffing at this and that, but knowing better than to tug on their leashes. Justin glances around and passes by the bench for now - he would go put his backpack in his truck and if he still didn't see Beth, he would come back to the bench.


Alec quirks an eyebrow. It wasn't long ago that he could have puked at the idea of trying to get on Reese's good side. But at the moment, it didn't seem such a bad idea.

"Yeah, I think I can get in far enough for you to use these. Might take a little while since I have to remember as I go but..." He shrugs and gestures to the monitor in front of him. "Can I use this computer?"


"So what are you saying?"

"I'm saying I have to go in again." JT folds his arms, his facial expression grim. "I'll schedule it for today."

Ryder's eyes narrow. "If you didn't do a good enough job the first time, who says you will a second time? Or do you like being a butcher?"

"Look." JT's tone grows firm. "I did all I could the first time, but the tests show that your muscles are not healing properly. Now you can refuse a second surgery, but if you do, more than likely you'll wind up a cripple the rest of your life. Is that what you want?"

Ryder glares at the bedsheets. He'd wanted to get out of here today, not be told more work needed to be done on his leg. "I knew there was a reason I hated hospitals," he grumbles.

"If that crocodile had decided to tear, and it's amazing she didn't, you wouldn't have a calf left. Be glad I'm trying to get you back on your feet." JT turns to head from the room but stops and glances to Thirteen, of whom he'd seen here a lot the last few days. "Talk to him," he urges more quietly. "I can't help him against his will."

Butterfly

Turning to head back inside himself Trey stops as Pete does. He couldn't help the look of surprise to his suggestion. Just looking at Pete for a long moment Trey trys to decide if he was being tricked or not. Not sure what to think he finally cross his arms over his chest.

"I thought that was against the rules and I couldn't leave this place? Or do you like to bend the rules sometime because I'm all for that. I looked in the break room and most of it looked very unappetizing. I'd think they would be able to afford some good food for you guys."

Giving a shrug and putting his hands into his pockets Trey plays with his lighter moving it around and around in his hand just waiting to see if Pete really meant what he said.

Thinking again for a moment Beth shifts a little on the bench again it was easy to see she was thinking and working everything over in her mind trying to figure everything out.

"Ok....I'll....come over. It might be....fun to help you."

Standing again Beth takes in a breath of air before turning to Justin again. After she was done visiting with Sarah Beth would come here and wait for Justin again.

"Ok, I'll see you here in a little bit than."

Turning again Beth starts forward again before stopping and turning around again to Justin.

"By the way I put the butterfly in the living room on my table as a reminder."

Wheeling his chair over to Alec and towering over him he moves the paper a little to look at the sheet. Studying the numbers for a long time he works them in his mind. These were not for what he was working on but maybe...it could be a side project.

"Do you know how to access this system that needs to be hacked into? If you can get me there I can probably hack in. Might take me a few days but it would be a fun side project to work on and than surprise Reese with. Might get you on his good side again too."

Looking up from the paper at Alec Dalton's eyes glistened a little. He always loved cracking into him, and hacking systems. It was illegal in a leagal way and he loved doing it.

Waiting

"Well, you know me..." Alec thumbs through a few more pages. "...always wanting to do what's useful." Though his tone didn't imply he was being sarcastic, anyone who knew him would know that he was.

"Hello. What's this?" He draws out a paper that had a listing on it. To most it would appear as a garbled mess, but he hands it to Dalton. "I don't know how you got a hold of this or who managed to get access to it, but every third line is a backward code for some security files. If you can hack their system and use these, you'll have a goldmine."


"Yeah sure." Justin shrugs. "You can drive, I don't care. Probably better anyway since I'll have the dogs with me in the truck."

He really didn't care one way or the other if Beth came. It was totally up to her and he'd work with her whether she was going to come or just meet him later. He'd be there if she needed to talk, and he'd invite her out a little to get used to doing some things outside her routine, but outside of that, everything was her own choice.

He looks to her, his eyes searching her face as he waited for her answer.


Pete shakes his head a little, almost rolling his eyes. "Be glad they don't have you in the holding cell downstairs - then you could call it a dungeon. You've even got it better than the other guy we've got down there."

Going for the door, his hand rests on the handle before he turns to look at Trey again. "Want to go out and get something fast for breakfast?"

Useful

Typing somethings into the computer Dalton gives a side glance to Alec as he sits down at the desk next to him. Going back to his work he is quiet with the music playing in the background to keep his mood passive.

"No one sorted them. Katie and Jamie were going to but they have mountains of work right now. So I took them before they were ready to try and releave them a little stress."

Dalton looks back to the computer again and types a few things in. A smile spreads across his face as what he was doing works and now he was in a little farther than before.

"If you know how they should go your more than welcome to sort them yourself. It would help me out, and you would be doing something useful."

Thinking for a moment Beth shifts a little in her seat. Going to Justin's house? That was....was it to much? Would she be ok going to Justin's...alone?

"Can...I drive?"

She new she had asked that once before and he had said it was ok, but to her she would ask again because she felt safe. Having her own car there meant she could leave when she wanted or get away when she needed too. She was in control and things were still two new not to be.

Eying Hal, and than Pete Trey gives a little scoff when he adjusted his side arm. His family was part of a drug ring, he's see cops before, and read there signs he new what Pete was saying without the words and he found it humors.

Backing up to let Pete pass by Trey looks back into the room giving Hal a cocky smile and than a click of his tong pointing at him.

"I'll be seeing you Hal."

Following Pete through TJY and up the steps Trey makes his way past him and outside. Trying residence at the side of the building he leans against it for a moment taking in a deep breath of fresh air. People who always were in TJY might not know how stuffy it was but not being there often it wasn't hard to tell.

Opening his eyes again and pulling out a smoke Trey lights it up. Taking a few long drags from it and finally putting it out on the ground he bends down and picks it up again putting the now out butt back in the pack. Turning to Pete he gives a nod of thanks though his eyes were still dark.

"I'm done big man. We can go back to the dungeon not that I want to."

Up to you

"Well..." Justin thinks for a moment, glancing at his watch. "I'll probably be done with Scott around noon if all goes well. I gotta go home, give a couple people some calls and clean out my gutters." That's why he'd said three o'clock, but if she didn't have anything else to do, he wouldn't push her away for several hours. He shrugs.

"You can tag along if you want - I don't mind a bit." He didn't know if she'd be comfortable coming to his place or not, but he'd leave it up to her. "The dogs would be glad for extra company and then we can just head to the fishing hole from there. Totally up to you though."


Alec crunches on a chip and shrugs lamely at Dalton. "Yeah well... I'm bored to death and the big guy lowered the boom, so it's either this or sitting downstairs for the rest of the day while I go completely insane."

He nods, taking a sip of his pop. "Passive torture. The Agency ought to try that sometime - unfortunately, it works."

Wandering in closer to the desk, he rolls his eyes and sets his pop and chips aside, wiping his hands on his jeans. The classical music was enough to make him go just as insane as being bored, but maybe it was better than silence.

Sitting down in what used to be Scott's chair, he slides the files closer and starts to sift through them. He wasn't sure exactly what Dalton was trying to do, but again, this was better than nothing. Going through more pages, he curses under his breath. "This is a mess... these numbers over here are access codes and they're mixed in with personnel administration codes. Who sorted these things?"


Both men look up quickly as Trey enters the control room, and immediately, both are on guard. Hearing the request, Hal tries not to sigh. "I'm Hal. This is Pete." He looks over to Pete, his eyes asking him to help out. "Would you mind escorting Trey outside then making sure he gets back in again?"

Pete nods. Normally he'd be out on the street, but just his luck, he'd wound up in today and now had to help look after the new guy whom he really didn't know why was here in the first place. "Yeah, okay." Standing, he looks up to Trey. Some people might find Trey's height unusual, but around here with Con, Jason and Dalton, everyone was used to tall people. There was something strangely familiar about Trey though - something even Pete caught on to. He shrugs it off though, adjusting his sidearm in clear view to make a silent statement that he wouldn't take any crap.

"Alright, let's go." Leading the way down the hall, Pete keeps a close eye on Trey, taking him across the main floor and taking the few stairs instead of the elevator. Once outside, he holds the door open for Trey then sets his hands on his hips, just studying the younger man.

One of you

Beth gives a little nod of her head. She had a short shift at work today so it would give her some times to relax with Justin but yes she still had to work.

"Yeah I do, but not till six so we have sometime."

Fiddling with a string from her pants for a moment Beth looks up at Justin again studying his face. He was going out of his way to help her and she was thankful for that but it made her wonder. Did it make him happy to help people?

"Should I wait out here for you when I am done with Sarah or will you come find me? I don't know how long it will take you inside so I don't want to interrupt anything."

Hearing his door squeak open Dalton looks up from his desk. Seeing Alec he raises an eyebrow just looking at him a long moment. Why on earth was Alec here, let a long did he want him here? Hearing his question and thinking about it for a moment Dalton contemplated with himself. He had nothing against Alec right? He might be Agency but he was helping them now so what was the harm?

"Its a little bit of a surprise to have you asking to help on your own."

Studying Alec a little while longer Dalton leans back in his chair just thinking for a moment. What did he had that he could help him work on? Looking at the stack of files to his left he continues to think before speaking again.

"If you want you can come look through these files for me and see if you can find anything that might help me out. Numbers, words...but don't eat or drink over the files. Reese will kill me if grease or liquid ended up on these."

Opening the door Trey pokes his head out and looks around the main floor of TJY. He'd been in his room since he got here and now he was hungry, bored, and really in the need for a smoke.

Making sure no one was paying attachen Trey slips out of the room and starts to wonder the hall. He wondered how long he would have to stay here. Already he was bored and if he was cooped up for to long.

Passing the controlle room Trey lets out a sigh. The only way outside was through Hal Reese has said so if he wanted out he'd have to talk to him. Going back to the door and giving a knock before entering Trey eyes the two men not knowing who was who.

"Reese said to talk with someone named Hal when I wanted to go outside. I am guessing thats one of you guys."

Bored

Justin smiles his greeting at Beth as she approaches and gives some attention to the dogs. Once she's seated and asking him about fishing, he nods. "Yep, I'm still going. Figured later this afternoon... maybe three o'clock. Gonna be hot, but you work tonight, right?"


Getting Ryan's return text, Alec grins and sends his response.
Ok. C u later.

Sighing, he takes another swig of pop and looks around the break room before grabbing a small bag of potato chips. Wandering down the hall again, he sticks his head in the control room, finding Hal and Pete. "Got anything for me to do so the big boss doesn't complain I've been of no use today? I couldn't find him earlier."

Hal smirks a little. "Bored enough to actually offer for once, huh?" He shakes his head. "Reese will probably be here later. He and Angelica went to see her new niece that was born late last night. Go ask Dalton - Reese has had him trying to hack some Agency files. You might be able to help."

"Yeah... right." Alec turns around and still holding his can of pop, tries to juggle it while opening the bag of chips. New baby, huh? Cool.

Nudging open the office door with his foot, he looks in at Dalton. "Hal said you might want some help with something or other." Truth be told, Hal was right - he was incredibly bored... bored enough that yes, he was looking for things to do. Normally he sat and moped, but he couldn't stand it anymore.

Miss

Smiling up at Bret and him a returned kiss to the lips Charlotte looks down on the small on in her arms again. It was amazing how small he was and how big her love could be for him already.

"Mmm..while I feed him can you call Angelica for me? If I we don't she'll have both our heads."

Charlotte was so happy, her eyes so bright and full of love. For her child and for her husband. They were going to be great parents, maybe a little different, but great non the less she just new it.

Heading up the sidewalk like she had so many days before Beth makes her way to see her sister. Today though something was different. Her eyes were still tired, and sunken in a little but there seemed to be a little spring in her step. Today she had something new to look forward to and it felt nice.

Seeing Justin sitting on the bench Beth new he would be there and seeing the Dog's with him today Beth gives a small smile. Stopping at the dogs first she lets them sniff her hand before scratching there ears and patting there heads.

"Hey there girls."

Standing up Beth gives a nod to Justin before coming around and sitting down next to him. Sitting a little straighter today.

"Good Morning. I think its....going...to be a nice day for fishing. Are you still going?"

Hearing her phone go off Ryan stops her work on the car and whips her hands off on a rag before going into her pockets and pulling out her phone. Giving a grin at the message she hits reply.

I'll miss the lotion too. Yeah I'll be at the races tonight. Come early and you can catch a ride with me.

Races

Bret sits in the chair and leans on the short railing of the hospital bed, looking down into the eyes of his new son. Running a finger down the face so small, his smile can't be wiped away.

He looks at Charlotte, his own eyes glistening. "Yeah... yeah, he is perfect." Glancing down again into Nicholas' eyes, he nods. "You sure are. I could never have asked for more."

Rising up out of the chair for just a moment, Bret leans over and down to kiss Charlotte's forehead. "I'm so proud of you. You did great."


Justin nods to Beth, letting her stand first before he rises too. "You have a good night too, Beth. Drive safe."

Following her outside, he watches her get into her car and just leans on the tailgate of his pickup as she drives away, watching as her taillights disappear down the road. Sighing deeply, Justin glances up to the night sky, looking at the stars as far as he can. Was he doing the right thing? He hoped so.

Finally he gets into his truck and heads home himself where he would be up yet another couple hours...


...Heading down the sidewalk, Justin keeps Danitza and Zora at his heel, his backpack slung over one shoulder. It was the same routine, same location, same purpose. While he sometimes grew weary of this kind of job, knowing what was coming was nice every once in a while. Though there were still a few things he couldn't predict.

Early for Scott, Justin heads for the familiar bench, easing down to sit for a few minutes. It was going to be a hot day, but right now it wasn't too bad and there was a slight breeze that kept it nice enough.

The two dogs obediently lie down beside the bench, waiting further instructions from their master.


Carson wanders down the hall of TJY, needing to ask Misty about a bill needing to be paid. He'd forgotten it at the restaurant the day before and now it couldn't wait, so he'd left "the girls" in charge for a while.

Almost to the infirmary, he spots the one person he didn't want to see.

Alec is coming up from the lower level to get some breakfast and spots Carson at the same time, meeting him near the infirmary door. Lifting one eyebrow, he folds his arms across his chest. "Hey, bro. Long time no see."

Carson's eyes narrow. "Not long enough. I heard they let you walk around loose - I didn't think they were that stupid."

Alec tsks, shaking his head. "Don't call Reese stupid. He might not let you work here anymore."

"Naw, there are days he needs me. You, on the other hand, seem to be a reoccurring parasite."

"Ouch. I'm hurt. Really."

Carson rolls his eyes. "Just stay out of my way."

"Hey I was just on my way for food. Got a problem with that, call it in to the big boss."

Carson opens his mouth to retaliate, then just shakes his head. Turning, he goes into the infirmary.

Alec stands for a moment, staring at the closed door. Why the encounter bothered him, he wasn't sure. But trying to push it aside, he heads for the break room. Grabbing a can of pop, he flops down at the table, and takes out his cell phone.

Morning. Sunburn better but Ill miss the lotion. Races tonight? I could sneak out for a while.


Leo sighs and pushes aside his bowl of cold cereal. He felt better than the day before as most traces of his hangover were over, but his mood hadn't lightened much. He wasn't even all that sure just what it was that was bothering him. Or maybe he just didn't want to think about it.

Glancing up to the calendar on the wall, he notes the day. There were races tonight. Maybe he should just go and hang out for a while... do something different.

Perfect with life!

Finishing off the rest of her coffee Beth looks into the empty cup. She was feeling a little better. Not a alone, and a new light to look forward too.

"Yeah I think I will be ok now. Thanks a lot Justin, I needed this tonight."

Give her coffee one last shake to get everything out Beth gives a nod with her head. She was ready now and all her drink was gone. Standing and crumpling the cup up She walks over to the small trash can before coming back to the table once again.

"Have a good night Justin. I'll see you tomorrow."

Scarlet can feel the color come to her face at Eli's comment to her looking perfect. As he slips his hemit on Scarlet gives a wave of her own watching him drive down the street. Once he was gone she turns and heads back to the apartment. Picking up her paper work along the way so she could get ready for tonight.

And in the silents a sing baby crys. The sound bringing joy to the new parents ears. The tiny baby being wrapped in a blanket and places in the new parents arms. The little eyes looking up at them, and the soft cooing music to there ears.

Looking down at there new baby Charlotte smiles so big. Tear filled her eyes but not from pain, but from joy. This was there little baby boy, there joy.

"He's beautiful. Nicholas Aaron Parker! He's perfect."

Looking up at Bret again Charlotte's eyes twinkle so happy. There baby boy was so small, so cute and his eyes so bright for just being born. Everything was perfect with life at the moment.

Limit

"Okay." Justin smiles again and finishes off his coffee. Yes, Beth had taken a step forward tonight. Things hadn't turned out like he'd originally thought, but again he wondered if maybe this was the reason for it all.

Cocking his head a bit, he studies Beth's face for a moment. Though she had needed someone tonight, there was still a limit for more than one reason. "It's getting late... you gonna be okay now?"


Eli smiles up at Scarlet as she stands, and he slides back down into the seat. "I'll be back here at seven. But don't try to clean up too much... you already look perfect."

Giving her a sly wink, he dons his jacket again and starts up the engine. Slipping on his helmet, his face is hidden. Saluting his farewell, he backs from the space and heads out of the parking lot, speeding down the street.

Maybe

Hearing Justin would spend time with her put another pang in her head and made her feel warm. It was strange thinking about spending time with someone and moving away from what she normally did, but in a way it felt kind of nice too.

"Fishing tomorrow sounds like a good start. In the morning I'll come....see Sarah and than we can meet here and I can follow you again if you want."

Maybe this time she'd try to fish herself too. If not though she'd love to play with the dogs once more. She liked Justin's dogs, they were fun, and soft. Tomorrow might be a good day at least it was a start.

Keeping her arms around Eli still Scarlet lets her one hand slide back to his head and through his hair. It felt so nice, soft, and Scarlet just enjoyed running her fingers through it.

"I think that sounds perfect. Mom and Pop's would be perfect, maybe afterward we can go visit Jimmy. As for the time thats even better gives me time to clean up a bit."

Scarlet's eyes twinkle again as she looks back at Eli more. Leaning in and giving him a slight kiss on the lips she backs away a little bit before getting off the bike and giving his leg a slight pat.

Tomorrow

Justin smiles his warm smile at Beth, nodding just a little. If he hadn't wanted to see her through this, he wouldn't have tried being her friend. Maybe it's what she needed to give her the extra little boost in the right direction. People came and went from Justin's life all the time - perhaps his and Beth's paths had crossed simply for this reason... so she could learn to live again. After all, that's what he did, wasn't it? Help people live again? To see a little sunshine in someone's life made it all worthwhile. And Beth had a smile that should be seen more often.

"Hey, if I'd wanted you to be alone, I wouldn't have come tonight." He gives her a quick wink before taking another swig of coffee. He wasn't sure exactly what Beth was thinking as far as spending some time together, but he knew he couldn't push it. Perhaps something familiar would be the best place to start. "I'm going fishing again tomorrow," he mentions. "If you're interested in coming along again, you're more than welcome and I'm sure the dogs would love to have you there too."


Eli chuckles, feeling the pleasure from knowing that Scarlet had missed him. Who knew where this relationship was headed, but at least for the moment, he was thoroughly enjoying it. "Good... I get to pick you up tonight then. I'm thinking... something easy like Mom and Pop's so we can go to a movie afterward. What do you think?"


Receiving Ryan's text message, Alec reads it and grins, despite his sour mood. At least he could still spend some time with her tonight even if it wasn't at her place. Reese had certainly done a bang-up job this time. And Alec was forced to admit that if he wanted his own place, he now needed to follow the rules. It was not fun and he hated it, but Reese had him cornered.

Rolling off the cot, Alec sheds his shirt, relieving his sunburned chest and arms. Assuming his normal fighting stance, his routine begins again, the same as he always did when all he wanted to do was punch something but couldn't. He would end up going over the routine ten times before Ryan would show up later.

Smile

Just taking in what Justin said Beth sits quiet for a long moment as her mind processes everything. What he said make seance and she had heard it many times before but this time Beth listened and was working it over in her mind more. Maybe she was ready to change, or maybe she trusted Justin enough and had in fact formed a friendship to leave her ears open to his words.

Looking down at the paper butterfly that was made from the napkin Beth picks it up. Running her fingers over the wings and looking at the detailed work that was done. He'd done such a good job on it, and he made it look so easy. Looking up at Justin again Beth's eyes search his face for another moment, her eyes seemed now sad, and though there was a strength still behind them there was a longing and almost a pleading.

"I....don't know how. Will....will you help me so I don't have to be alone?"

Justin had become a friend even if this had been the first time she said it. Maybe if she could face each day with a friend it would make it a little easier than facing it alone. Maybe he could show her some things that were fun, and encourage her to spread her own wings.

"But...if ya don't want to I understand...I don't....need you told hold my hand or anything just...having someone to share time with....would...be nice."

Beth did her best to smile and hold it this time as she looked at Justin. The corners of her mouth twitched a little as the smile was being forced to stay but maybe in time it wouldn't be forced but would come easier.

Key

Again, Justin simply sits quietly as he listens. It had been a hard thing for him to learn a few years back - how to be still and allow the other person their space. But once he realized its value, he now used the silences to not only give someone else time to reflect and speak, but it gave him more time to study them and decide the best things to say in return.

Beth's three things did not come as a surprise. She had loved her parents and loved her sister very much, even if the past had been rough. It wasn't strange that she would wish for everything to be reversed, and she wasn't alone with those feelings.

Justin reaches over and takes a napkin from its holder, folding it this way and that as it kept his fingers busy while he thought. His eyes now drift down, allowing Beth her comfort zone.

"Sometimes... it's hard to be happy when what really makes that happen is seeing those we love being happy first." He puts another crease in the napkin. "But sometimes..." He pauses, doing his best to speak words of comfort but not be the councilor she didn't want. "...the trick is finding what brings us happiness, or rather, joy, outside of those things. And sometimes... it means going deeper within ourselves."

Still fiddling with the napkin, he pauses, taking a sip of coffee and remaining very casual. "You know, for a long time after my dad died, all I wanted was him to be back again. I missed him, for a while I blamed myself, and I missed hearing him laugh. I was just a kid, but looking back, I can see that I was bound and determined not to be happy without him around. And then..."

He gives a little shrug as his fingers remain busy. "...then one day it hit me that there really was no way he was going to come back. So I had a choice. I could be miserable without him, or, I could dig deeper and be happy again. I thought about what he would want for me and I knew that he wouldn't want me to be miserable. So... I slowly started collecting things that made me happy... inside... things I found I liked to do. And soon... I realized that what really produced happiness was simply living. To be who God made me to be. I found that I gained joy in helping other people. I like to fish. I find happiness with taking care of my dogs. But..."

He squints a little as he makes another fold in the napkin. "...it's different for everyone. The one thing that remains the same though is the decision to be happy. It's a state of mind... a decision... not something that must be based on circumstances. I can find an old man who lives under a bridge who is happy just because he takes life one day at a time and he is satisfied. But find someone who seems to have everything and they might be miserable."

Pausing, Justin slides the napkin towards Beth. It was now folded down into the crude shape of a butterfly. "The key is allowing ourselves out of the cocoon that binds us and learning to spread our wings, even when it's a long ways to the ground."

Pitaful!

Continuing to look down at her coffee Beth take in a breath and let it out again slowly. She new the tears had wanted to come, they were right on the break but she willed them not to. She'd cried so much so long ago that now she didn't want to anymore. So she held the tears off, and tried to keep herself strong.

Hearing Justin talk it seemed to put a little warmth in her. Maybe it was because this time she was willing to listen, or being alone was just not good enough anymore. Looking up at him her eyes meet his as she searches his face.

"Three things, my parents back again and happy, My sister herself again, and....to be happy."

Drawing quiet for a moment and taking a sip of her coffee Beth lets her mind wonder. Her parents would never come back, her sister would never be the same and happiness...what was happiness?

"I know two of those things can never happen and as the last. I don't...know how to be happy anymore its been so long. I don't even know what my hobbies are, or stuff I like to do. It's just been the same thing for me day in and day out. See Sarah, go to work, come home, watch tv repeat. Life before my parents were gone...I can't remember that life anymore and there faces are slowly fading as well."

Letting out a small sigh Beth looks down at her coffee again and takes a sip. She really was pitiful or so she thought now saying this all out loud. She only wished sometime, things would be different.

Three things

Just sitting quietly, Justin is very surprised at how open Beth is tonight. He doesn't talk but just listens, taking in her body language, voice, downcast eyes... everything while she tells him the story of her past. He was glad he already knew so that nothing would be a surprise - the only surprise was that she was telling him these things. Perhaps she finally had been honest with herself and combined with finally trusting him... maybe it was simply the right combination and right timing for her.

Hearing he was her only friend sends a pang to Justin's heart. Beth was too nice of a woman to be so alone. Without friends, the world was a dark and very lonely place - no wonder she had walls so thick. It was a sad reality and also made Justin glad that he hadn't walked away. If he'd turned his back, she wouldn't even have him. He had to remain... he had to see this through... for her.

Leaning back in his seat, Justin curls his palms around his coffee cup and cocks his head just a little. For the longest time he just stays completely quiet, though there is no shock in his eyes, nor disapproval in his gaze. He simply gives words a chance to rest and regain wisdom before breaking the silence that hovered over the table.

"And I'm still here, Beth," he confirms quietly. "I'm not going anywhere."

He ducks his head a little so he can find her eyes that had been staring at her coffee. "You are very strong and very brave," he commends. A peace flowed through his tone. "And I'm glad that we're friends." Her past he would not hold against her. Her walls he would not hate. All that she had been through, he would not count against her. Justin felt it was important that she know he was still glad to be here, even after everything she'd just told him.

Quiet again, he takes a sip of his coffee before speaking once more. His eyes remain on her, should she look up for him to see her gaze. "If there were three things you could have in this world... anything... what would they be?"

The Story

Looking up and seeing Justin come in Beth almost gives a smile but stops. She hadn't though he wouldn't show but it was nice to just confirm to herself that he did care enough to come. Waiting for him to come over Beth gives another sip to her coffee.

Once Justin has made his way over and sitting down Beth gives a little smile. Shaking her head a little bit she understood what Justin was saying though tonight had been the first time in a while she felt like this.

"This is the first time in a long while I have felt like this. I saw a group of people today after work and I'm not sure why but it just hit me how lonely I really was."

Drawing quiet for a moment there was more on Beth's mind that she wanted to say but she wasn't sure where to start. It was hard to think about it, let along talk about it. Justin was her friend though and if she told him maybe it would help him understand her a little more.

"I was twelve and Sarah was ten when our parents died. I was out at a friends house, and Sarah stayed home because I didn't want her to come along for once. My dad came home drunk and...ranted about something or other so they tell my anyways. I guess the people next door heard the fight."

Beth takes in a deep breath the pain was clear in her eyes that it was hard talking about this, but she continued anyways still looking into the blackness of her coffee.

"My...mom had Sarah go hide, and the fight continued. My father got really angry and ended up shooting my mother killing her. Than he went looking for Sarah and if he had found her he probably would of killed her too. Sitting down on the bed Sarah was hiding under he ended up shooting himself. Sarah saw everything and since that night she hasn't spoken a word. Not to me, not to anyone. I know she's listing though you can see it in her eyes. She just...locked herself away so tight. I know it's not my fault, and if I had been there it wouldn't have changed anything but...It's just one of those things I guess. Since than trusting people has not been my strong part, and keeping my walls up was easier than being hurt."

She new that she had locked herself away too. Not like her sister had, but in her own way and area she had.

"Since than though so many years ago I haven't felt so alone, till tonight and....your...you the only friend I have so...I called you. Even if we don't talk it...its just nice to know...your there."

A drag

With the call ended, Justin puts the phone back and fishes around for his wallet and keys. Though he was used to staying up late, he normally didn't leave the house at this hour so it takes him just a few minutes to make sure he had what he needed and could leave whatever else the way it was until he got back.

Making sure both dogs are still chained up in the yard, he heads to the truck. It takes only two tries to get it started this time, and he heads across the country back roads before finally making it to the highway.

Arriving at Eddie's. he parks in the almost-deserted parking lot. He recognizes Beth's car though, so picks a space next to hers. Wandering inside, he spots her at the table and smiles with a short wave. Seeing she had her coffee, he holds up one finger to signal he'd be right there, and he heads to the counter first.

"Hey, Justin." The man at the counter smiles, recognizing his customer.

Justin nods. "Hey."

"You're out late tonight."

"Yeah, you know me." Justin scans the menu, thinking.

"What'll it be tonight? Your regular?"

"Naw... I need something with a little more zip to it tonight." Justin normally went for straight coffee with a bit of cream, but tonight he did need to perk up a little more.

Once he has his drink, he heads over to the table where Beth was waiting. Offering her another smile, he eases down across from her. Resting his elbows on the table, he cocks his head, studying her face with a gentle, understanding gaze. "Late night lonelies are really a drag, aren't they?"

Waiting

Hearing where Justin wanted to go for coffee was fine with Beth. She new the place, and that this late at night they were pretty good still. It wasn't to far away ether so it wouldn't be a problem to get there.

"Yeah I know where Eddie's is. It's not to far away. Should only get fifteen minutes to get there so I can save you a spot. Thanks Justin."

Hanging up the phone Beth sits in the bed for a moment. She had really agreed to having coffee with Justin...on her own will? Was this really the right thing to do? Would this help and cure her loneliness?

Getting out of the bed and looking down at her sweat pants Beth doesn't even both to change. She was comfortable the way she was and it was late. What would be the point of changing?Grabbing a hoody from her closet and pulls it over her head before slipping her sandles on and heading out to her car.

Like expected Beth makes it there in about fifteen minutes. Ordering her coffee and now sure what Justin would want Beth picks a seat by the door but a little ways away from where anyone else might be. Putting a little sugar in her coffee Beth stirs her coffee and waits for Justin knowing she was a little early. Keeping her eyes on her coffee Beth just waits.

Leaning into Eli and pressing her lips to his once again her arms still around his neck Scarlet didn't want to miss a moment of the affection from Eli. She loved how his kiss felt and sweet it tasted. She'd missed him and now being in his arms again confirmed it.

"Mmm...good I'll make sure to keep these to show Jimmy and than for my own personal collection if I ever need black mail."

Bringing herself to closer to Eli Scarlet continues to smile at him. Hearing he missed her a lot made her feel really good.

"If I had anything planned its now out the window if your asking me to dinner. I'd rather have a nice time out with you than sit here and eat something frozen. I miss you to much to turn dinner down."

Entering the house Ryan was still moving slow. It hurt to walk, it hurt to drive, it hurt to do anything at the moment. Throwing her keys on the little table and hearing her cell phone go off at the same time Ryan goes into her pocket with care. Seeing Alec's text message Ryan lets out a small sigh. She might be disappointed but she understood and if she went to him tonight that was just as good.

Bummer on the boss, but tonight I have no problem coming to see you. Lotion is being put by my keys so I don't leave without it. I'll see you a little bit later. <3

Finishing with the message and hitting send Ryan heads into her room and grabs the bottle of Aloe lotion taking it and putting it with her keys. Going back into the living room Ryan eases down on the couch slowly leaning back and turning the tv on to find something interesting to watch.

Come c me?

If it had been anyone else, Justin probably would have declined the request to go out for coffee. It was late, he was tired and he'd already settled in for the night. But hearing Beth's reasons, sensing her loneliness and hearing her voice quiver, he couldn't say no. Professional peers would warn him against such a move, and his own common sense might, too - he'd already moved too quickly once before, and his frustrations for Beth's situation weren't all that far below the surface. But... she wanted someone tonight... needed someone. And if he ignored the silent cry for help, he might very well come to regret it. No... he couldn't turn his back now. This was too important.

"Sure." The word slipped right out of his mouth. "I'd rather have some coffee than read anyway and I'm a night owl."

Wandering to the hallway where his flipflops were, he slips them on instead of bothering with socks and shoes. He didn't even know where Beth lived or what would be a short or long drive for her. He racks his brain for somewhere they could go, especially at this hour.

"Do you know where Eddie's is? It's that all-night coffee shop on the highway." It was a nicer place than a fast food joint, safe even late at night, well-lit and clean. It was about a half-hour drive for him, but he didn't mind. "I can be there in thirty-minutes but I don't even know if that's close to you."


Eli can't help but laugh along with Scarlet. He'd already laughed plenty over the whole thing with Roth, but seeing Scarlet laugh, he had to join her.

As she pushes him back a little and sits in front of him, he grins before returning her kiss. His eyes twinkled with humor. "Yeah, I haven't seen Jimmy - I knew you'd want to tell him yourself. And yes, I got duplicate prints."

Chuckling again, he goes for another quick kiss. "It was way too boring without you around, you know that?" He'd missed her more than he'd thought he would, especially after not having been going out with her all that long. "You got plans for supper?"


Alec walks quietly across the TJY main floor, trying to make it to the hallway where he could duck down the stairway and avoid Reese before he was questioned as to where he'd been.

"Alec!"

No such luck. Alec stops, cringing a little as he turns to see Reese coming towards him. "Yeah?"

As Reese nears, he almost has trouble not grinning as he now sees how sunburned Alec was - served him right for sneaking out again, though that was probably less painful than what Reese had to tell him. "Where have you been all day?"

"Out."

"With whom?"

"None of your business."

Reese sighs, setting his hands on his hips. If he'd seen any attitude change, he might respond differently. But he couldn't change his mind now. He baits Alec. "How many times have I told you that you can't just come and go from here as you please? What's it going to take?"

"Maybe you can get me my own place like you've been promising," Alec retorts. He knew that he should be grateful for all the Elite was doing for him, but he was still impatient. "Or have you forgotten?"

"No, actually..." Reese purses his lips grimly. "I was going to take you over to your own apartment this morning. But... when I went down to get you, you weren't there. So the vacancy had to be filled by another waiting client."

Alec's anger flares as he grits his teeth. He knew Reese wasn't a liar, but it still burned him up that this had happened. He didn't want to blame himself, but Reese had him cornered with no where to go. The bare truth was that he was at Reese's mercy and he hated it. "You could have warned me."

"I thought you'd obey the rules." Reese shrugs. "You'll have to wait now for another place to open up."

"How long?"

"Don't know. But you might want to stick around from now on so you don't miss the boat again."

Glaring at Reese, Alec spins on his heel and stalks down the hallway. An angry fist lashes out to hit the wall, but winds up hitting the closed door of the spare room with a bang. Still seething, he heads downstairs to his room... lair... cell... dungeon.

Flopping down on the cot, Alec grabs his cell phone and sends a text message to Ryan.

No go 4 2nite. Top dog on warpath. Come c me?

His thumbs hover above the buttons until he continues with one last line.

Lotion...

Send. Alec sighs and leans his head back on his pillow. Why did such a good day have to be ruined by Reese's pigheadedness? It wasn't fair.