o.O

Being pulled in for another kiss, JT accepted that as Amanda's approval of the affection. What he didn't count on was the passion with which she kissed him. Held in her embrace, he's taken a little off guard, but doesn't hesitate to return her kiss. As she pulls away, he blinks but doesn't have time to say anything before her lips are pressed against his again.

For a moment, he hesitates, but it's a short-lived moment, giving way to the release of his own passion that felt as though it had been stored up for too long. Falling into the moment, his arms slip around Amanda to hold her as he returns her kiss. It was sweet. It was deep. It was theirs.

Leaning to the side a little, JT pulls Amanda with him until they were leaning against the log, still locked in their embrace. It was as if it were finally the right moment.

Making Up

As JT turns her head twords him Amanda dosnt resist. Looking into his eyes and hearing his words She can feel her heart start to race beating loudly she thought for sure JT would be able to hear it. The fire danced in his eyes and his words rang in her ears.

Feeling his lips brush against hers if only for a moment sent a tingle down her spine and a warmth through her veins. It was a feeling she'd never felt before and she liked it.

"I don't think I want to wast another moment missing out either."

Bringing her hand behind JT's head Amanda pulls him close to her pressing her lips against his. Letting out a small murmer Amanda's other hand goes to JT's back and rubs it slightly. Pulling away for a moment she smiles as she trys to catch her breath.

"We have alot of making up to do you know."

Tilting her head the other way Amanda returns for another kiss just letting it linger a long time this time. Time seeming to stop, and all knowledge of what was going on around them was no longer there. It was just her and JT, this moment...seemed perfect.

Firelight

Carson's eyebrows rise a little and he turns his gaze to the counter to clean up. "Oh, um... yeah. I mean yeah I'm fine. Sorry." He wipes up a little spilled sauce. "Just talking... I guess."

He pauses at the sink with his back to her. "How's work been today?" The change in subject was abrupt, but he doesn't seem to notice.


Though JT's eyes remained on the fire, Amanda's comment brings heat to his own cheeks for a moment. It did make him grin though. "That might not be so bad," he teases.

For the next few minutes, the crackling of the fire seems to be the only sound. Eventually though, JT finds himself looking to his side at Amanda, just watching the firelight dance on her face, accenting her features. He swallows hard, suddenly realizing his pulse had quickened.

Shifting a little towards he, he reaches out with a gentle finger under her chin to turn her face towards him. "I probably should have told you a long time ago how beautiful I think you are," he mentions quietly. "It shouldn't have taken us getting kidnapped for me to have the guts to say it."

His finger lingers under her chin before wandering up her cheek. His eyes gaze into hers, a million and one thoughts going through his mind. Leaning in a little closer, his voice grows even quieter. "I don't know about you, but... I don't think I wanna miss out on living life anymore."

Slowly, slowly, he closes the gap between them, tilting his head slightly and letting his lips brush against hers ever so softly. Drawing back a little, he checks her eyes once more to make sure what he'd done was okay with her.

Lap

Enjoying dinner and than the warmth of the first after Bree likes the small talk with everyone. It was always a fun time sharing story, talking about things of the bast and bringing up good memories.

"I don't know about this whole stargazing thing. Kinda freaks me out something else might happen."

Giving a laugh Bree stands anyways and links her fingers with Gunner's. She was happy he could take a joke and not get bent out about it. If he did that would make for an awkward relationship.

"Alright lets get a move on. The stars are calling and..."

Bree looks from side to side.

"Lets just leave it at that. Come on."

Smiling at JT Amanda moves where she sits and comes next to JT. Sitting down next to him She watches the fire quiet for a moment.

"It might be hard but its still comfortable and if it gets to bad I'll just slip into your lap."

Amanda can feel her cheeks turn red but she dosnt shy away or try to cover up what she said. It was about time she took everything into her own hands. Even if it was slowly it was a start and thats what she wanted.

As Carson starts to ramble Misty can't help but laugh a little. It wasn't often he wasn't so talkative, but maybe since she hadn't seen him all that much in the last few days it was just everything he wanted to get off his chest at once.

Shaking her head Misty goes up to the counter next to Carson and starts on there own pizza. Listing to what he had to say Misty just nods and as she continues to sprinkle the cheese on just taking in everything he had to say.

"Yeah I see where your coming from. Maybe you can meet herb half way or something. Like one night a week having a special where you serve the chicken parm or something else from the menu. That was we have the pizza people want, but we still have the older feel for the regulars that come in like Mr and Ms. Conner who always order the chilli on Friday nights."

Now placing the pepperoni, sausage, and bacon onto the pizza Misty is silent again for a moment. Redecorating might be kind of fun, and she didn't see Herb not liking the idea depending on how Carson wanted to do it.

Giving a laugh she couldn't believe she was actually considering that with Carson. It was a crazy notion but fun at the same time to think about. If they could do it together that would even be better. Misty trys to stop her brain before it got to far ahead they didn't even know if Herb would agree.

"Your pretty talkative today. Not that its a bad thing, I like it. But just wanna make sure everything is ok?"

Campfire

Carson shakes his head but grins, going into the room across the narrow hallway to make his phone call. A few minutes later he reappears in the kitchen. Turning his cap around backwards, he rubs his hands together in anticipation. "Okay... pizza. I can't believe you're not sick of it since I bring it home so often."

"Carson! Need a small pepperoni and mushroom," Dani calls.

Already on the way to the counter, he stops and sighs. "Alrighty." He looks over his shoulder and nods Misty to the counter with him. "Come help me throw ours together while I take care of this other order."

Grabbing the necessary ingredients, he sets to work with speed, proving this is what he did every day. "So I've been thinking about talking to Herb," he muses. "The majority of our customers, by far, order pizza. What do you think he'd say if I suggested we downsize our menu to just pizza and a couple subs? I mean, financially speaking, there are plenty of things that I've had to throw out lately because it's gotten old because people just aren't ordering things like lasagna and chicken parmesan anymore." Still keeping his eyes on cooking, he continues, rambling at an unusually fast pace for him. "People have gotten too busy -they want something quick and everybody loves pizza and subs. There are other pizza places around town, of course, but that hasn't hurt our own business so far, since we've got a different flavor and use more toppings, if I do say so myself."

He spreads sauce and cheese over the small pizza he was making, still not pausing his speech. "And on top of all that, if we minimize the menu and have a smaller selection, it would be easier to train help or have someone take over if I'm gonna be gone. And then if we did just go down to mainly pizza, we could expand our ingredients on that - like now we don't have Hawaiian pizza but I've got people asking out it every once in a while and it wouldn't be hard to keep those ingredients on hand. Or we could even come up with some of our own new combinations that other pizza places around here don't have. But anyway, I know Herb has always taken his menu quite personally and I know he's tried to keep this place like a little homey, nicer than fast food type Italian place - but at the same time, I think our clientele has changed and if we don't change with it, we may wind up losing customers. Personally, I think we'd do a better business if we were a little more targeted and didn't have such a broad menu. I've even thought about redecorating, but that's a whole other story."

Popping the pizza into the oven, he turns around, seeming to take his first breath. "Thoughts?"


"Neat freak? Neat freak?" Axel gives Jess a teasing look of shock before holding up his hands. "Would a neat freak walk around with hands that look like these?"

Liz smirks. "She and I both know that it's only because you can't get all that grease off. Otherwise, you'd walk around like a doctor. Like this." She puts up both hands like a surgeon who had just washed before a procedure."

Axel kicks her under the table, but his eyes dance. "I'm not that bad!"

Liz giggles and looks at Jess, having fun teasing Axel with her...

...All fun times had to end though, and Axel has to get back to work. Liz agrees to meet him back at his place later that evening, accepting his invite to stay with him for a night so Derek could have some time alone. It's a rather quiet evening until both bed down for the night...

...Liz's eyes pop open and she stares into the dark living room. What had woken her? She squints, trying to see the clock on the microwave in the kitchen but can't make it out. Judging by the darkness, it was the middle of the night. She settles back down into the couch only to hear a soft shuffling sound. Squinting again, this time she sees a figure heading to the door. "Axel?" she whispers. She receives no response, but she was able to make out Axel's form now. He appeared fully dressed except for being in his bare feet.

Sitting up, she watches, confused as he gets to the door. As he unlocks it, turns the knob and starts to open the door, his trusty alarm system of a string of bells comes crashing to the floor with a loud announcement. Glancing down at them, Axel pauses, then heads outside, leaving the door wide open.

Liz, now more concerned than confused, gets up from the couch and wanders to the door, shivering a little as the cool breeze goes through her thin pajama bottoms and t-shirt. Looking down the outside stairs, she spots Axel just getting to the ground level and starting across the parking lot, still in his bare feet. Noting his slow, steady walk, not to mention not having shoes on, Liz immediately knew what was happening. Without taking time to get her own shoes on, she pads down the stairs and goes after Axel.

"Hey, Axel?" she calls softly. She winces as she steps on a stone. Swinging wide around him, she tries to get within his line of sight without startling him. "Axel?" Smiling, she approaches a little more quickly, trying to get to him before he went into the street. "Hey, it's a little late for a walk, don't you think?"

Axel blinks and slows to a stop, jumping just a little at Liz's sudden appearance. "Late?"

"Mm-hmm." Liz wraps her arms around herself, shivering. "Come on back inside, okay?"

"Um..." Axel furrows his brow, starting forward again.

As gently as possible, Liz puts her hands on his chest to stop him. "Now, now, we don't want to walk into the street. It's much safer in bed."

Axel yawns, his eyes starting to droop. "Yeah. Bed is a good idea. Why are we in the freezer?"

Liz stifles a laugh. "Because you're sleepwalking. Come on, big guy, let's go back to bed."

It takes a little bit of prompting, but she finally gets Axel back up the stairs and into his apartment. Getting him back into his bed, she makes sure to tuck him in, then goes to the door, locking it and resetting the bells so in case he left again, at least she'd know. Snuggling back down under the blankets on the couch, she sighs deeply before drifting off to sleep again...

"Heeeey, sleepy head." Liz grins as she flips the sizzling bacon in the frying pan. "Figured some breakfast might get you out of bed."

"Uh-huh." Axel's eyes were only partially open as he trudges into the kitchen, going straight to the refrigerator for some orange juice. He was so glad he didn't have to work today - for some reason he felt utterly exhausted this morning. Chucking down a half a glass of juice, he finally nods at Liz. "Morning."

She laughs and divvies up the bacon onto two plates. "Have a seat. Still like your eggs scrambled?"

"Yeah sure." He manages a grin. "Thanks. You didn't have to fix breakfast."

"Aw well... when you weren't up early like usual I figured you probably hadn't slept well after your little midnight adventure. Thought a good breakfast might be nice."

Axel eases down at the kitchen table, running a hand through his matted hair. A shower would probably help wake him up too. "Well you're sweet." He pauses then frowns. "Wait... midnight adventure?"

Liz chuckles. "I didn't think you'd remember. You never did. Though I must admit I was surprised your bells didn't wake you."

Axel was growing more alert now. "Bells?" His eyes widen. "I was outside?"

"Yeah." Liz dishes out the eggs and butters as couple slices of toast. "You were headed somewhere in your bare feet. I caught you before you got to the street though."

"Wow." He tries to remember, but can't. He only knew he didn't feel like he'd slept well at all. "And... I knocked the bells off?"

"Mm-hmm." Liz comes to the table with their breakfast, setting a plate in front of him. "It's okay though. Reminded me of the time Dad found you halfway down the block."

Axel's cheeks flush.

Liz giggles. "You were pretty glad it was him finding you in your boxers and not me or Mom."

Axel smirks and tries to think of a way to divert the conversation before starting in on his eggs. But one thing really did bother him... a lot. "I slept through my alarm..."


Gunner soaks up Bree's attention, murmuring his pleasure. Holding her close, his fingers run through her hair. Grinning as they pause, he nods. "Yeah... I think you got it right." He doesn't let her comment though, simply returning for more.

Sitting under the tree for what felt like an eternity, there really was a sense of peace here. Tranquility. It was definitely a much needed break from everyday life. As the sun begins its descent, Gunner walks with Bree back to the campsite to find JT and Amanda back as well, JT already starting to build a fire to make supper.

It isn't long until supper is enjoyed and the stars are beginning to shine in the sky. Conversation between the four is accompanied often by laughter, everyone relaxing and simply enjoying the short time they had here.

As the evening grows on, Gunner's the first to break up the little group. "I'm thinking stargazing," he hits, glancing to his side at Bree. Standing up, he offers his hand. "How bout it? No clouds tonight."

JT looks up at them. "Just be careful.... chiggers... snakes... with the kind of day you've had, Gunner, it could be anything."

Gunner throws him a withering look. "Yeah, yeah... don't remind me."

JT laughs and watches as his niece and Gunner head to a darker spot in the clearing away from the crackling campfire. Sighing with content, JT slides down from his seat on the log so he's seated on the ground and can stretch out his legs. Staring into the fire, he enjoys its warmth. His peripheral vision sees Amanda close behind him where she'd been seated for supper and he pats the ground next to him. "It's a hard seat but at least the log can be a backrest," he offers.

Understatment

Returning the kiss than giving a laugh at Dani's comment Misty shakes her head. You could definitely tell Carson and Dani were brother and sister But it made her smile anyways. She was happy Carson had found his sister. She new it was one thing he always had wanted.

Going in before Carson Misty's didn't have to wait and look what she wanted on it, she already new. Sitting down at the little table that was in the back of the kitchen she smiles.

"Oh thats easy I don't need to think about it I already know. But go make you phone call so I can have you all to myself. I'm selfish like that."

Misty's eyes sparkle as she watched Carson. So much love could be seen in those pools and the first that had been there when they first met had only grown stronger. Misty often wondered what she'd do without Carson. He'd become such a big part of her life.

Sitting and having lunch with Axel and Liz was nice. Getting to catch up on what was going on was a bonus. It was nice to know what was happening in everyone's lives and made Jess seem closer. Jess new how close Axel was to Liz and being part of that made her feel wanted even more and at home.

"A neat freak....thats an understatement."

Looking at Liz she gives a wink before turning to Axel and grinning leaning into him a little bit. He might be a clean freak but that was ok seeing as she wasn't the neatest of people. She'd been working on that though at least so he wouldn't have to clean after her as much.

Sitting with Mick Rosetta searches his face for a long moment still leaning into him. She was worried, he would get to depressed again but he had assured her he was ok so she would trust him.

"I think where you went wrong is where you keep telling yourself so. This is not sourly your fault and you shouldn't have to take all the blame for it."

Moving her head down again Rosetta's one hand slips into Mick's as her others softly run's through BJ's hair. Time moved so fast she wished she could slow it down. She wasn't getting any younger and it seems time was just slipping away. Moments like this she wanted to last forever!

"You have three kids who love you. Even if they dont say it or show it, they do. Its just going to take some time for them to come around. He's takes after his father. God has a plan though Mick, and he wont give you anything you can't handle. You're gonna be ok and so is Dylan."

Laughing again as Gunner breaks free and pulls her close Bree just lets him this time. Her lips meeting her it was like the first time they kissed all over again. Soft, sweet and just plan wonderful.

Bringing her hands around one on Gunner's back and one on his head the kiss is broken all to soon and the smile moves across Bree's face her eyes twinkling.

"Oh so thats now its done huh? Let me see if I can get it right."

Bringing her lips into Gunner's again Bree just lets the moment continue as the soft warm wind blows. Pulling away for just a moment Bree moves her head the other way and comes back for more. The moment seeming lost, or the moment was standing still as she continues the kiss her passion, and her love just being expressed in that kiss.

Call

Grinning, Carson returns Misty's hug, keeping his arms around her even after she'd retreated. "Pizza huh? You mean what I just cleaned up off the floor in there? Yeah, I'm real famous for that." Pulling her back close, he plants a long kiss on her lips.

"Oy. Carson!" Dani chides him from behind the counter. "Customers?"

Carson draws back and smirks at his sister. "They don't care. And if they do, they can take their business elsewhere." He finally lets Misty go but tosses Dani a wink. "You're just jealous anyway."

Dani quirks an eyebrow. "Of what? I can get a kiss on my lunch break too, ya know."

"Only if you have a step stool."

"Carson!"

He puts a finger to his lips. "Shhh... customers."

Dani's eyes narrow and she shakes her dish towel at him. "Go make your pizza."

"Right." Carson heads back towards the kitchen. "Pizza." He holds open the kitchen door for Misty. "Go ahead and figure out what you want on your pizza. I gotta make a quick call."


"Chinese sounds great." Axel nods as he walks. "See you in a few minutes." After ending the call, he nods to Liz. "Looks like we can walk if you don't mind."

"Not a bit!"

...Meeting Jess for lunch, the three quickly find a table and order, enjoying small talk. Liz fills in Axel a little bit more about Jason, and chats with Jess too, asking about her job and the like.

By the time the food was almost gone, the atmosphere was such that it felt like neither of the three wanted to end the nice lunch break. Liz, though, did have more on her mind, evident from the way she bit her bottom lip and looked across the table. "Hey, Axel? You know how we've been in town a little while and... well... could I..." She stops and shakes her head. "Never mind."

Axel quirks an eyebrow. "No, what is it?"

"Um, well... I don't know. I just thought maybe Dad could use some alone time with all that's been going on. We've been sharing a hotel room. But..."

A little grin appears on Axel's face, his eyes twinkling slightly. "If you want a place to bunk down for a night, just say so."

Liz giggles. "Yeah, okay." She knew Axel well enough to know she didn't need to beat around the bush. She did know his history though, and didn't want to make him uncomfortable having people see a young woman staying at his place.

Axel can read the look on her face all too well. "I'm fine with it, you know." He tosses her a wink, his leg bumping Jess' under the table. "Who can complain about a guy inviting his sister over?"

Liz smiles broadly. "Only the crazy ones. Is tonight okay or is that too soon?"

"Naw, that's fine. Gives me just enough time to get the dirty dishes in the sink and pick my socks up off the floor."

Liz shakes her head. "If I know you, your dishes and laundry are clean." Her eyes glance to Jess. "Is he still neat and tidy as ever?"

Axel's hand slips over and covers up Jess' mouth. "Just nod and smile, honey."


Mick was surprised to have BJ join him - the tyke should have been in bed by now. He doesn't chide, though. Instead, he allows the boy to join him on the swing, and puts his arm around him so he can settle in. Receiving the kiss to the cheek, he gives BJ a squeeze. "I love you, too." Moments like these reminded him that soon BJ would grow out of the need for cuddling with his daddy. Even now, it was growing less and less as the boy grew older and wanted to do more things on his own. Though only eight, it was obvious he was trying to be more grown up every day. It was good though and Mick encouraged him. Even so, to have BJ come to him like this sometimes still felt nice.

Settling back, it was only a few minutes later that Rosetta appeared and joined him as well. He grins a little and shakes his head. "Sorry. He just plopped down and was out." He looks down to the sleeping form under his arm. "I think it would take an earthquake to wake him up at this point."

Sighing deeply, it takes Mick a moment or two to answer Rosetta's question. He finally nods though. "Yeah... yeah, I'll be okay." He searches her eyes, trying to reassure her. At the moment, he felt incredibly low. But yeah... he'd be okay eventually. "Just trying to figure out where I went wrong I guess."


"Good." JT smiles and keeps hold on Amanda's hand as they walk slowly around the pond. "You know, there's only one bad thing about this whole camping trip," he muses. "Bree and Vamp are never gonna let us live it down that they had to drag us here so we'd have a good time."

He laughs and shakes his head. "But I guess it's worth it."


Letting Bree take control, Gunner grins and returns her kiss only to have it end too quickly. One eyebrow rises. "You, my friend, are not playing fair."

Using muscle to free one of his arms, he slips his hand behind her head to pull her in gently, but not letting go. "It's done like this."

Kissing her on the lips again, this time he holds her still to make it last longer before finally his own smile breaks it. "There. See?"

Tantalizing Kiss

Seeing Carson come out Misty gives a smile. Though it was a bit odd he had his jacket and hat on in the middle of the day her question was confirmed before even asked. That was sweet he was going to come and see her instead.

"I though a surprise would be nice today since I had a little time. From what Dani tells me you might need a little of that."

Hearing the bell on the door tingle Misty doesn't even bother to turn around. It was the normal in a place like this and she didn't care who saw her with Carson. Giving a nod to Carson's question Misty puts her arm around him in a hug before pulling away.

"I'm starving. How about I help you make one of those pizzas your famous for?!"

Answering the phone and hearing Liz was visiting Jess smiles. It didn't bother her at all that she would be joining them for lunch. The more the merrier.

"Hey! Well since you got Liz I can meet you guys. I've been having a craving all day for Chinese since Terry came in with some. How about I meet you at the little place around the corner from the auto shop?"

Looking out the window two little eye peered out at Mick as he swayed back and forth slightly on the porch. Rosetta being back in the bedroom turning down the bed had not yet heard the creaking of the swing out front. But someone else had who should have been in bed hours ago.

Opening the door to go outside BJ emerges and walks slowly over to where Mick was sitting. Not saying anything he pulled himself up and cuddled in close to Mick. The boy might not be Mick and Rosetta’s flesh and blood but he loved them more than anything. Each of the members of the ranch could be seen in this small child who was growing so quickly.

Sitting up straight for a moment BJ gives Mick a kiss on the cheek than returns his head to his chest. The child might not have known exactly what was going on but maybe he could feel something was off.

“I love you!"

Before to long BJ’s breath became a little more shallow as the event from his own day caught up to him and he was fast asleep on Mick.

Finally hearing the porch Rosetta steps outside and gives a smile seeing Mick and BJ together. It really was a warm scene to see how they had taken to each other. Coming over to the swing Rosetta sits down moving close to Mick and BJ but doing her best not to wake the sleeping child.

“I tried getting him to sleep four times and had no luck, you come home and he’s out like a light.”

Rosetta gives a smile searching his face. She could see he was tired, and so torn over the whole Dylan situation even if he hadn’t said it. She could only imagine how much he was hurting inside.

“Are you going to be ok Hun?”

Taking JT's hand in her own Amanda stands up and brushes herself off. For a moment looking deep in to JT's eyes it would see she got lost. The sun just reflected off them in this moment and make them so bright. Shaking it off Amanda's cheeks turn a little red.

"I think a walk sounds nice."

Amanda felt comfortable, relaxed, and not quite as awkward with JT now. Maybe it just took those few times to get it out of there system and make them comfortable. Now though it felt like that had been doing this all along.

Having Gunner go for her neck Bree lets out a little squeal as she tries to push him away playfully. Whenever he did that it tickled and sometimes she just couldn't hold it in. Squiggling and squirming Bree continues to wriggle free. Finally being able too she rolls away from Gunner.

"Thanks now fair you know."

Rolling back twords him through she plops herself back in his lap pinning his arms down so he can't tickle her. Leaning in she brushes her lips across his before drawing away a little and smiling.

"You not the only one aloud to give tantalizing kisses you know."

Walk

Finishing up gathering Domino's things, Scott eventually can't see anything else lying around. Fingering the dog leash, he glances at the clock. "I suppose I need to call Brian to come pick me up."

He pauses shifting his weight a little. "Thanks for... for supper... I, um... I missed your cooking."


Gunner chuckles and slips his arm around Bree. "He's got it bad, huh? I was thinking the same thing about Amanda." He lets his eyes wander around the pond. "Of course, we might have given them a push but if they wind up hating each other, I say we've had no part in it whatsoever."

Grinning, he gives her a squeeze. "Regardless, and even if I keep getting attacked, I'm glad we came."

He sighs with content, then grins at her question. "I don't know. I've been playing this by ear since the beginning." He chuckles again. "Vampires aren't very good with plans. They just attack at will." Giving a teasing growl, he goes for her neck, giving her a playful gnawing kiss.


For the first time since arriving on this little camping trip, JT felt relaxed. He wasn't sure why. But even sitting here with Amanda, the awkwardness seemed to have disappeared somewhere along the way.

"Maybe it is at that."

Grinning, he picks himself up from the ground and brushes off the jeans. Standing over Amanda, he extends his hand. "I'm not allergic to bee stings. Wanna take a walk before supper?"


"Hey, Misty!" Dani smiles and waves as she carries a tray of dirty dishes back towards the kitchen. "That goof is in the kitchen cleaning up a pot of pizza sauce he just dropped all over the floor." She rolls his eyes. "Maybe you can get him in a better mood. I'll tell him you're here in case he didn't hear you come in."

She continues to the kitchen but almost runs right into Carson, who is just pulling his car keys from his pocket. It was too warm out for a jacket but his baseball cap was on and it was very much evident he'd been on his way out.

Skidding to a halt at the counter, his eyebrows shoot up at seeing Misty. "Well hello, Love." He tucks his keys back into his pocket. "I was just... on my way out for a break." He smiles. "Looks like the break came to me though."

The bell on the door rings and his eyes snap up to see Jaz enter then turn right back around and go out again. Without missing a beat, his gaze swings back to Misty, a smile still on his face. "Hungry?"


"Axel!"

Axel turns from the workbench just in time to be run into and squeezed in a tight hug. "Whoa!" he laughs and sets his wrench aside to return the enthusiastic hug. "You're gonna get grease all over yourself there, Kiddo."

Liz pulls back and grins, leaning up to give him a kiss on the cheek. "I don't care. It's how I say hello."

"I hope you don't say hello to everyone like that." Axel ruffles her hair. "I got your message that you might be in town, but I didn't know when."

"Yeah... Dad and I came to see Jason."

Axel nods knowingly. "Lots of folks have been worried about him. How's he doing?"

"Um... he's pulling through we think." Liz tries not to let her emotions show, but it wasn't easy. She didn't know Jason very well, but he was her brother, after all, so having seen him on his deathbed hadn't exactly been a pleasant experience. "He woke up a couple days ago, you know, and the doctor at TJY thinks he's gonna be okay. I... just needed to get away for a while. Sorry I didn't call first."

"Naw, it's okay." Axel cocks his head. "Nick come?"

"No. He um... well, I guess the thought of meeting his dying brother sorta freaked him out."

"I can understand that." A slight pause follows, and Axel picks up his wrench again. "Soon as I'm finished here, I'm on lunch break. Meeting Jess if you wanna join us."

Liz bites her lip, hating to impose. "Really? Dad said if he needed to come pick me up I could just call him. I don't want to interrupt your day."

Axel rolls his eyes. "Anybody who calls my little sister an interruption is gonna have to answer to me."

Liz giggles sheepishly. "Yeah, okay. I'd love to do lunch with you and Jess. So you two are...?" She lifts her eyebrows expectantly.

Axel quirks a grin, but only before ducking under the hood of the car. "We're still dating, if that's what you're asking."

"Mm-hmm..." Liz folds her arms, a teasing twinkle in her eye. She was glad to see Axel was still with Jess though. She hadn't said so, but she thought they were awfully cute together.

Axel's smile couldn't be seen, but it was still there. It didn't take him long to finish the car he was working on, then clean up. On the way out to his own car, with Liz in tow, he calls Jess on his cell phone. "Hey, it's me. Got company for lunch. Liz is visiting. You want us to pick you up from work, or you want to meet us somewhere?"


Still on the lookout, Mick sees immediately when Dan returns. Except...he was alone. Mick's pulse picks up. No Dylan? Had Dan not found him? What had happened?

Holding his tongue, he sets aside one last hay bale and meets Dan halfway down the barn aisle. He doesn't even have time for a greeting before he's told the truth. Dylan really was gone. Even after talking to Dan. He blinks. Receiving Dan's apology next was a little surprising, but Mick doesn't interrupt. Opening his mouth right after, he doesn't even get any words out and Dan is already walking away.

Mick raises his hand and is about to call after him, when he stops. Dropping his hand, he swallows hard, his shoulders lowering in surrender. He felt as if the fight had been sucked out of him. So he allows the silence to remain, and turns back to his work...


...It was the next day, late in the evening. Jade had enjoyed some time after supper with Dan, and now just wanted some hot chocolate to relax before bed. It had been a weird day. With the news of Dylan spreading quickly, everyone had questions but no one wanted to bring it up. The pickup had been retrieved from town yesterday, and no one knew which direction Dylan had gone. Surprisingly, Mick had been very quiet about the whole thing, never once saying a word to Dan or even Jade. It almost worried her. She knew that Mick was debating calling her mother and letting her know about everything - Jade couldn't blame him for hesitating. While her mother would want to know, Jade knew she'd freak, and she wouldn't want to be her dad in that position either.

Entering the dining hall quietly, Jade expected to find it empty. She'd use the microwave then take her hot cocoa back to her bunkhouse. But seeing a small lamp on at the other end, she was surprised to find someone else in here. Approaching slowly, she saw Mick sitting off in the corner, and a pang of pity hits her heart. He looked so tired. Was he okay?

She goes to the kitchen and makes her hot chocolate, changing her plan. Quietly joining Mick near the fireplace, she finds her own chair. Then sitting near him, she's silent for several minutes, sipping her cocoa slowly. Eventually, she feels his eyes and glances over to find him indeed staring at her. She smiles a little. "What?"

He shakes his head. "I'm just wondering which split second it was when you changed from a little girl into a woman. I must have missed it."

Her smile widens, a little color filling her cheeks. "Aw, Daddy."

Mick returns the smile. "You haven't called me that since you were a little girl."

She chuckles softly. "Maybe I should have more often."

Mick's eyes drift down to his empty coffee mug and he's quiet for a few moments. He'd claimed this spot as just somewhere peaceful to think. After yesterday, today had been a very long day with too much time to consider where Dylan might be and if he was alright. He'd found himself retreating just to try and remain sane. "I'm sorry, Jade."

Her brow furrows. "What for?"

"For being a lousy dad, I guess."

Getting up, Jade moves to join him on the couch. So that's why he was in here all alone and so sad looking. "I don't know what you're talking about."

"Don't you?" Mick shakes his head. "I abandoned you and your brother. I pushed you away when you came here. I've done nothing but make your brother mad. I've fought you over almost all of your own decisions. And now I did such a good job that Dylan's really gone. What part of any of that isn't lousy?"

Jade truly felt bad for her father, and her eyes showed it. Setting her hot drink aside, she reaches out to set a hand on his arm. "For years after you left, I dreamed of finding you. I didn't understand everything but I wouldn't believe the bad things Grandma said about you. There were many nights I cried myself to sleep because I missed you so much." She swallows hard as she sees tears pooling in Mick's eyes. "Then when we were here in Texas that one time and I slipped away to come here, I didn't know whether to hate you or not. But I just knew I wanted to find out for myself who you were and if you really didn't want me." She shrugs. "There for a while, I thought it was true. I felt pushed away when you didn't want me to stay. But..."

Shifting a little, she sits sideways, making sure Mick was still listening. "Somehow I always knew that even if you were rough with me, you did love me. You were just trying to spare me the danger of being here. Oh, there were days that I didn't believe it. But as time went on, I understood why it seemed like you were pushing me away."

Mick's shoulders drooped as he relived the pain of saying goodbye to his children, then being reunited and torn apart again multiple times. "I was just-"

Jade grips his arm, stopping him so she could continue. "I guess down deep, I knew there was a chance for me to gain back my dad as long as I didn't give up. When you let me come visit, it felt like maybe I was getting a taste of what I'd always wanted." It was her turn to feel the tears building. "I know I was stubborn and you didn't always like the choices I made, but... this felt like home. Not just because it's a nice place but...but because you were here. I could finally be with my dad again." She brushes away a tear that had rolled down her cheek. "I love Mom to pieces, don't get me wrong. I've always liked Ben too - he's a good guy and a good stepfather. But...I'm here because of you. Sure, there's Dan and that swayed some of my decisions. But I wouldn't have come at all if I hadn't wanted to be near you."

Mick takes Jade's hand in his and gives it a squeeze. "I'm sorry I've been so tough on you. I don't know how you ever saw past all of my mistakes to want me in your life that much."

Jade smiles. "Well...maybe somewhere along the way I figured out that you hadn't had much practice being a dad, so...maybe that made it a little easier to forgive the mistakes."

Mick chuckles. "When did you get to be so smart?"

Jade shrugs. "Maybe some of Dan's insightfulness has rubbed off on me."

Mick cocks his head and studies her shining eyes. "You really love him, don't you?"

"I better." Jade laughs. "Or else I better get this ring off my finger pretty quick." Pausing, she nods with a little more seriousness. "Yeah... yeah, I do. I'd follow him anywhere."

"How come you two haven't gone off and gotten married like you want?"

"Because we respect you too much. We know how you feel and... Dan looks up to you as his boss and friend, and I look up to you as my dad. Neither of us want to make the road rougher than it already is."

Mick sighs deeply. "I love you, Jade, and I'm sorry if I've caused you grief the last couple years. Maybe you're right... maybe I really haven't had enough practice being a dad." His eyes drift downward. "I'm sorry for all those times I lost my temper or handled things the wrong way. I...I hope someday I'll get it right."

"Daddy..." Jade waits for him to look back up at her. "You already have. I'm not perfect either, you know. Just because you make mistakes doesn't make you a lousy father."

Mick manages another smile and reaches out to brush her cheek. "Thanks. I guess no one is ever too old to learn, huh?"

"I suppose not."

"Well, I'm glad you're still here. And I'm glad you never listened to me when I said I thought you shouldn't stay. You're a bright spot in my life, I love you and... dangerous or not, I'm glad you're living here at the ranch."

Jade smiles and squeezes his hand. She'd known that, inside, but was glad to finally hear him say it. "Thanks. And I love you too."

Mick finally sets his empty cup aside and sits up a little straighter. "At least I've got you. Looks like I messed up one too many times with Dylan, though."

Jade resumes sipping her hot chocolate. "He's always been stubborn," she muses.

"Sorry."

"For what?"

"I think he got that from me."

Jade chuckles. "So did I, but you don't hear me complaining."

"I suppose not. But you haven't been in quite as much trouble as your brother either." Mick shakes his head. "You two get along? I hardly ever see you together."

"Oh... yeah, I guess we get along alright." Jade shrugs. "We're not as close as I wish though."

"Was it always that way?"

"Kind of. When we were little, we were close I guess. But once we were in school we sorta went separate ways. I had my friends, he had his. I did well in school, he didn't. We bickered a lot. I think deep down we woulda protected each other with our lives if we'd had to, but we never said so."

"What happened?"

"Dylan changed when he started getting in trouble. I could tell just by looking at him that he was into bad stuff, but Mom and Ben either didn't see it or didn't want to believe it. They just punished him when he got caught doing things like stealing or breaking into the school. I asked Dylan once what was really going on but he shut me off. I'd see him at school with the older boys, girls with loose reputations, and I caught him smoking once. He was more careful after that to hide from me, but there were plenty nights I looked out the window to see him sneaking away from the house."

Mick purses his lips. "So you didn't know the truth either."

"About him being abused by those other guys and forced into stuff? No, I didn't. He was so cold towards me that I believed it was all his own choices. I backed off and we really didn't talk anymore. When I started coming here, I thought he might be interested, but I guess he wasn't. Then when I decided to stay here, he didn't seem to care."

"I guess I've been pretty hard on him."

"Yeah..." Jade gives her father a sidelong glance. "You have."

"Think I've ruined things for good?"

"Whether or not things are ruined, you can't take all the blame, you know. Maybe you were rough, but Dylan retaliates against everything. At the same time... I guess if I'd been through what he has... well, I might have just as bad of an attitude as he has."

Mick shakes his head slowly. "I know I shouldn't have assumed things about him and Ashlee like I did, but I was just afraid he'd been stupid and I didn't want to see him live through any more consequences from bad decisions."

"I know." Jade tries her best to be comforting. Whether Mick had been wrong or not, now wasn't the time to criticize. "Remember a few minutes ago when you said maybe you just hadn't had enough practice being a dad? Maybe this is just one of the lessons along the way." She gives him a crooked grin. "Regardless, you're being too hard on yourself. Dylan wasn't told to leave - that was his choice."

"Yeah... I guess you're right. Not sure I can get over feeling guilty though, especially if something happens to him."

"Then we'll pray nothing does."


...An hour later, Mick is wandering to the main house, tired, bone weary, yet not ready to go to bed. It was late. He'd said goodnight to Jade shortly after they'd talked about Dylan, and it appeared everyone else was in bed now. The stars were shining brightly - it was a beautiful night sky that normally he'd enjoy. But tonight, his thoughts were too clouded.

Reaching the house, instead of going inside, he eases down on the porch swing. Pulling his jacket collar up a little more, he settles back and sways gently back and forth, pushing with one leg. The quiet creaking would probably alert Rosetta that he was outside. But...maybe that's what he secretly wanted.

Agenda

Hanging up the phone with Jade Dan starts up the truck. Pulling out of the parking lot and heading home in a way he could help but feel like he might be heading for the gallows. Mick had been pretty mad before he left, and now he was disappointed him again as he came home empty handed.

...An hour later Dan pulls into the ranch and parks his truck. Seeing Mick in one of the barns he figured he might as well get this over with now and relax with Jade in a little bit. Removing the paper bag from the cooler next to him he exits the truck and walks twords the barn where he saw Mick.

"Mick, I wanted to let you know first that I found Dylan in town but I was unable to bring him back. I gave him my number encase he needed anyone. I'm sorry I failed in bringing him back, and I am sorry for not letting you know sooner I had seem him."

Not really knowing what else to say or wanted to stick around to be yelled if at all Dan turns to head out of the barn. If he didn't find Jade soon than the ice cream would be mush and even if it was still good that way it would have ruined the plan of eating it with her solid.

Bending down and laughing Hope pats the little dogs head and scratches behind her ears. She thought it was rather cute to see Domino so wound up and full of life again. Standing up again Hope gives a nod to Scott.

"Sure I do gives me a second."

Turning and going back into the kitchen Hope's smile couldn't get any bigger. Scott had just confirmed without even realizing it that he and Domino would be over more. Friends or more it made Hope happy she had gotten her friend back. Even when they were dating he wasnt just a boyfriend, but a best friend as well.

Coming back into the living room with the bag Hope bends down and pick up some of the toys and puts them into the bag before handing it to Scott. Taking the little dogs water and food dish she empty the food and water out before handing them to him as well.

Taking the small flower from JT Amanda brings it to her nose to sniff before reaching behind her and putting it in her hair. His words made her blush a little bit but she doesn't shy away. Maybe it was there time, and there eyes had been open.

"I think I'd like that. Lifes to short not to live it. We both know that. I think maybe....its time."

Sitting down next to Gunner Bree sits close leaning into him slightly. Though a longer walk would of been nice, this seemed just as good. The day was nice, the sun was shinning and she got to share a moment with the one she loved. How could she complane.

"Mmmm...maybe they will. If they don't its gonna bite them both right in the nose. I don't know if my Uncle can see it or not but he's got it bad. I think we gave them a good push though!"

Bree smile as she looks across the pond. She could make out JT and Amanda slightly and they seemed as though they were having a good conversation. It made her happy yo see that. JT had given her so much she just wanted to see him happy too.

"So what else do we have on our agenda?"

Entering the restront Misty gives a smile. It was lunch time and the last few days had been so busy with Katie and Jason that time with Carson had been limited. So now a surprise lunch date might be nice. If he wasn't busy that was and had time.

Seeing Dani she gives a nod as she leans on the counter. They didn't seem busy that was a good thing.

"Hey Dani, wheres that husband of mine?"

Misty thought for sure once Carson heard her voice he wouldn't wast time coming out to see her. She anticipated it and new it would bring a smile to her face.

Good Stuff

Jade is just helping tidy up one of the guest houses when her phone rings. Recognizing the ringtone, she smiles. Setting down the armful of bath towels, she sits on the edge of the bed and answers to hear Dan's voice.

As he tells her about Dylan, she cringes. Yes, her dad was not going to be happy. And a part of her was pretty disappointed, too. She didn't blame Dan, though. She knew it was Dylan's choice. But...even though she and her brother didn't get along all that great, he was still her brother and she did love him. He just didn't ever let her express it to him so she'd stayed out of his way most of the time. It pained her to see him running away though, especially when there was so much danger out there for him. Would he be okay? She could only hope.

Blinking away a tear, she keeps her voice steady for Dan's sake, and manages to laugh at his final statement. "You goof. I hope you took a cooler with you or that ice cream is going to be mush by the time you get back here in an hour." She giggles. "But even mush is good when it's with you. I'll make sure I have plenty of room to enjoy it with you."

Pausing, she bites her lip. "I'm sure you'll live to see another day, too. You and I both know how Dad is... as quick as his temper is, he usually calms down just as quick."


Mick finally smiles. "Okay. Sounds like a plan."

Glancing to the side out the window, he sighs. "I better get some work done out there or the guys are going to think I abandoned them."

Giving Rosetta an extra loving squeeze, he lets her slide off his lap before standing up. He'd tell her about the things he'd found in Dylan's bunk later on. For now, his head was a little clearer and he did have work to do.

Out in the barn helping Sparky with hay a while later, Mick keeps an eye on the driveway. Dan's truck was gone, proving he had gone to town like he'd said he would. All Mick hoped now was that when he returned, that Dylan was with him. He wanted to go himself... but he'd let Dan do his thing first. The boy had listened to Dan in the past - maybe he would today too. It was more than a hope. It was a prayer. And his eyes remain alert.


Scott bites his lip but grins, sensing Hope's humor. He was glad she could laugh these things off and not be bothered too much by the way he was now. Who knew what the future held? He didn't like not knowing what would come tomorrow, but he was learning to take things one day at a time.

Kneeling down next to Domino, he roughhouses with her for a few minutes before starting to gather up her things. "Okay, bud... let's get you packed up."

Completely wound up, the little dog runs around the living room, up on the couch, around again then finally smack dab into Hope's legs. Blinking and shaking her head she looks up then starts to wriggle with excitement again, putting her paws up on Hope's knee as if to say how happy she was.

Scott sees her and shakes his head. "She certainly hasn't changed much," he muses. "You got a grocery sack or something for her stuff? Knowing Domino she's probably got a few things hidden around your house - you can get them to me or just leave them here for when we come over."


JT rolls onto his side and props himself up with an elbow, looking at Amanda. "Maybe we will at that." A little grin tugs at his mouth. "Maybe we've had a reason all along and just haven't seen it."

Plucking a tiny daisy from the grass, he hands it to her. "Sometimes one just has to stop what he's doing and take a good look around before seeing the good stuff in life."


Gunner smirks in disgust but continues back towards the campsite. "Yeah I think I better give up this idea of a walk for the day. I'm liable to wind up dead."

Finally making it back and finding a nice old oak tree, Gunner flops down in the grass. From what he could tell, they were on the other side of the pond from where he'd seen JT and Amanda earlier. "So you think those two will ever get their act together?"

Die Happy

Taking the keys and giving a nod Dan watches as Dylan looks at his watch and than heads for the door. His eyes just follow him as he goes to the bus station. Would this be the end? Dan didn't know but he was confidant that Dylan would take his words with him and the young man would be ok. God would see to that.

Walking out of the dinner and heading to his truck Dan takes one more look at the bus station. A part of him was sad. He really did enjoy having him around.

Drawing in a breath Dan gets into his truck finally placing the package on the seat next to him. Pulling out his phone and dialing Jade's number Dan waits to hear her voice. He can't help but smile when he does.

"Hey Babe! I saw Dylan he's taking a bus out of town..."

Dan lets out a sigh.

"...You're dad's gonna kill me for coming back without him. On a bright side though I figure if its my last day alive I'll do it happy. Got us some ice cream to have."

Keeping her arms around Micks and returning the kiss Rosetta gives a smile. Being with everyone else was nice but just being home with Mick and BJ was something she wouldn't pass up either.

"Me not want to cook? Are you kidding me. I think that would be a really nice idea. Maybe we can even find a movie to watch before bed. Just relax the tree of us."

Though at one point in her life she would of picture what she would be doing at this point in time differently Rosetta wouldn't change it now. BJ was her son, blood or not and he put so much joy in her life. Mick was her husband even if sometimes it was hard to deal with him. She had family and a ranch even if it wasn't always happy. God had been good to her and this was perfect.

Following Scott into the living room Hope just continued to smile. Scott would go with her tomorrow and she was happy about that. Maybe her day off wouldn't be so boring after all.

"You can say thank you once more. But thats it...than your thank yous are all out for the day."

Humor danced in Hope's eyes showing she was kidding around. She was happy to have helped and if given the chance she would of done it all over again.

Amanda sit up again and looks out across the water. She often wondered about slowing down herself. But she never had any reason too. Now though she wondered if maybe there was a change in the wind.

"When you have a reason to slow down I guess it makes it that much easier. Maybe....we will both have a reason to do so!"

Finally coming to a stop Bree does her best to catch her breath. That had been quite the incident. What ever happend she wasnt sure but now it was over and she was glad.

"I think sitting by a shaded tree sounds good. As long as there are no bees or birds around."

Family Time

People had really grown attached? They were worried? Dylan sets his jaw stubbornly, even though Dan's words hit home. He didn't want to remember that there were people who cared. He didn't want to remember that he had it good at the ranch. All he wanted to do was think about where he was going. Fun to be around? He hardly thought so. All he did was sulk, work in the barn and complain about homework. Even the only humor he had was sarcastic. Jade really liked him? He questioned that, too. But... people had really grown attached?

Keeping his eyes glued to the table, he doesn't respond to anything Dan said. Inside though, his thoughts and emotions were churning. What was right? Who was wrong? Where were the lines?

Seeing the napkin with phone number, Dylan's fingers creep forward to accept it. He might call. He might not. But he might as well take the number anyway. Deep down, he was secretly glad he had Dan's number.... just in case...anything happened.

Realizing Dan was going to leave, he finally looks up. Why his future brother-in-law cared so much, he didn't know. Seeing the outstretched hand, he just looks at it for a few moments, then raises his eyes to catch Dan's. Why did his older friend have that much respect for him? It was strange, in a way. But he couldn't complain.

Finally reaching out, Dylan accepts the handshake. It felt... final. He wasn't going back to the ranch with him. Fishing in his pocket, he pulls out the keys to the stolen truck. "Here. Somebody can come pick up the truck."

Standing up, he checks his watch. He might as well go back to the bus station. It felt like he should say something more. Some parting words or something. But he had nothing. So all he does is nod. And walk away.


Even if Mick didn't know whether or not he believed Rosetta, her words really were a comfort. Leaning his face into her hand, he kisses her palm gently. "How'd you get to be so wise, hmm?"

Pulling Rosetta sideways onto his lap, he hugs her tightly. "Thanks... You may have to tell me another time or two I'm not a failure. Maybe one day I'll believe it."

Giving her a long kiss on the lips, he gives her an extra squeeze. "How about you, me and BJ eat supper here at home tonight? I could do with some quiet family time. Unless you don't wanna cook."


Part of Scott wanted to argue with Hope - he really did feel badly about taking Domino from her. But at the same time, he knew she was right. With the way Domino was acting now, it would be mighty hard to get away from here without her and it would be rough on her to be separated from him again.

He ruffles the little dog's ears. "Okay. Thanks. I can, um... bring her along tomorrow... maybe... to the park?" He was accepting Hope's offer to spend some time together tomorrow and take some pictures. He wasn't sure how wise it was but... it would be nice to plan some activities during the next few days as he tried to settle in.

Standing up, Domino is dumped to the floor where she grabs her toy and trots into the living room as if knowing they were going to pack up her things.

Scott chuckles softly, almost like a little kid giggling at their puppy. Wandering after her, he pauses by the couch, looking around the room for a moment. He'd spent many an evening here with Hope. A bit of melancholy settles over him before he leans down and picks up one of Domino's toys. Studying it for several seconds, he finally glances over his shoulder at Hope. "Can I say thank you again?" he asks quietly. "Just for everything?"


JT grins. "Yeah... those two are something else. I can't imagine being without Bree. It's like God knew I wouldn't have kids so he gave me her instead. I wouldn't trade her for the world, either."

Still gazing at the sky, he contemplates what Amanda had just said. "Maybe part of the fun of being with someone should be not needing to scrutinize schedules before being able to spend time together."

Slipping a hand out from under his head, he holds it up against the sun, studying his fingers. "I've been using these hands to help people for a long time. A million surgeries, a bazillion sniffles and countless broken bones. Maybe I need to slow down before I get too burned out."

His hand flops back down to the grass, feeling the prickly blades. "Maybe I need to adjust my hours and not be needed so much at the hospital."


Still flailing his free arm, Gunner pulls Bree back down the path until they were in the clear and the cawing crows were left behind. "No!" He answers her with irritation. "What is with this day anyway?!" He growls then tosses Bree a smirk. "Maybe we should just go sit under a tree somewhere and hope it doesn't fall on us."

Fuzzball

Motioning to the person behind the counter he would be sitting over in the booth when the ice cream was ready Dan slides in. Even if Dylan sounded irritated he was still happy that he allowed him to sit down with him. He might not be able to make the young man stay but at least he could chat a little with him.

"Don't worry I didn't plan on doing either actually. I told you before to give the ranch your best shot and if it didn't work out I would take you into town personally, that never changed. What did change however is how people got pretty attached to you over the last few months. Lots were askin about you today and if you were already. I'll have to let them know your in once peace."

Leaning back in the booth Dan just study's Dylan for a long moment. He'd gotten close with the young man and become friends with him. He was definitely sad to see him go and everything that had been worked on fall apart. Sure Dylan and Mick still didn't get along but there was a tiny bit of respect there between them both.

"I do hope you find what your looking for Dylan. Your a smart guy, and fun to be around, Jade's even admit it herself. You definitly deserve it with everything you've been through. Just keep your head on straight and I know you'll make it. You had alot going for you at the ranch, friends, family, if you could make it there you can make it anywhere."

Letting out another small sigh as the waiter comes over with both the ice creams to go Dan new his time was coming to an end. He'd have to get going soon so the ice cream didn't melt before he even got it back to the ranch. Grabbing a napkin and taking a pen from his pocket Dan writes down his number and pushes it Dylan's way.

"Do me a favor when you get to where your going give me a call so I can let Jade, Rosetta, Mick, and even Ashlee all the people that are worried know your alright. If you ever need anything don't hesitate to call me too. I'll do all I can to help."

Giving a smile Dan hold his hand out to Dylan the last sign that he respected him and everything he said he meant. Dan had no doubt Dylan would make the right choose, even if it wasn't right away, in the end he would.

Setting her book down in the grass and leaning back on her elbows Amanda gives a slight nod. She could never see JT doing anything but being a Dr because it was something he loved so much but it was just a fleeting though so she wouldn't comment on that.

"Well I guess thats one of the fun pats about being with someone. Making time to spend together, allowing yourself to slow down, and having a niece and her boyfriend who are not scared to ensure it happens."

Looking up at the clouds Amanda just stared for a long moment. Her mind wondered to many things, work, JT, Bree and Gunner. They had all come into her lift quickly and she had enjoyed getting to know them. It was hard to wonder now what life might be like without!

Walking with Gunner once more Bree was happy to stretch her legs. Enjoying the out doors with Gunner was special to her, and she liked being able to share this with him. Bree could never explain how Gunner made her feel, but now it was something she never wanted to think of living without.

Bree smiles as Gunners starts to talk about how much he enjoyed being with her, and about how it was so easy Bree can feel her heart thump. About to say something Bree catchs sight of the birds herself and lets out a little shriek.

Being drug behind Gunner Bree does her best to keep up and use her other hand to swat the birds away. She'd never seen them attack like this before and though she wanted to laugh at Gunner's comment she just couldn't.

"We can't get a moment of peace can we?"

Giving a shake of her head to disagree with Scott Hope holds her smile. She could never think of keeping two friends apart and never would she want too.

"I admit I'll miss the little fuzz ball but she is your dog and I new one day she would go back home with you. Don't feel badly its part of life and I am ok with it."

Maybe Hope would get a pet of her own to keep her company. Never before did she think of having an animal but after having Domino the idea came a lot more easy.

Leaning into Mick Rosetta just lets him talk for a moment. Not saying anything just letting him vent, and her listening. She new he must feel horrible and it made her sad. He had tried his best, and she thought he was doing ok.

"You havn't failed your kids. You were there for them and thats why you wanted Dylan here. Jade loves you to death and respects you very much. As for Dylan its just not as easy. He's hard headed like his father, and its not that you failed but only you have yet to connect."

Sitting up a little bit Rosetta searches his face. He was tired, worried, and frustrated. She really did feel bad for him and wished there was something she could do. Bringing her hand to his face she lets her finger run over his cheek bone giving a loving smile.

"Don't ever think you've failed because you haven't. Not in God's eyes and not in mine. There are just many bumps in the raid we need to overcome. Thats not failing."

Swiss Cheese

Spotting Dan enter the diner, Dylan inwardly groans. Not even fleeing to town had been far enough. He'd thought he would at least have enough time to get out of here before being found out. He looks down at the table and hunches over a little, his body language clearly saying he wanted to be left alone. When he's not, though, he finally raises his eyes.

"Fancy meeting me here, my butt," he mutters. "You're too smart to even play dumb."

Sighing, he shrugs anyway. "Sit down. I don't care. I won't be here long anyway." He looks at his watch. "My bus leaves soon. And don't even think about turning me in for driving without a license or trying to keep me off that bus."


"Mmhmm..." JT agrees with Amanda. It really was nice to get away. Nicer than he'd thought.

After checking his fishing pole once more, he lies back in the grass, stretching out and putting his hands behind his head. Squinting up at the sky, he sighs with content. "Sometimes I wonder if I should change jobs. Head for something less demanding so I'd have more time for things like this."

He turns his head to just watch Amanda for a moment. "Sometimes I wonder if two people like us could even survive together outside of work when it takes us every waking moment."


Grinning, Gunner accepts Bree's hand up. "Let's get out of here before those two try to tell me I need to rest more."

Hand-in-hand, Gunner leads the way once more, this time heading for a different trail. His pace is slower this time as he forces himself to take it easy so he doesn't wind up needing the doctors again. He's rather quiet for a while too, letting the sounds of nature take over.

It isn't until a few minutes down the trail that he finally speaks. His eyes wander though, keeping watch on the trees and clouds above. "So where was I before when I was so rudely interrupted by that fiendish little buzzer?" He gives Bree's hand a squeeze. "Oh yes. I was telling you how great you were."

Grinning, he stops and turns towards her, putting his arms around her in a light embrace. Looking down into her eyes, his own sparkle, despite this morning's episode. "It's not hard, you know. Talking about how great you are. A vampire doesn't often find one as accepting as you."

Biting his lip, he's silent for a moment, just studying her. "This vampire really thought he was destined to be alone the rest of his life. Then you came along. I guess I was sorta wondering if-"

Movement catches his eye and he looks to the left just in time to see a large crow divebombing towards them. "Duck!" Pulling Bree down several inches along with him, they're just missed. Unfortunately, the bird comes back for seconds, and now it's not alone.

"What the...?" Gunner lets go of Bree to swat at one of the squawking crows but all it does is serve to rile up the birds even more. Soon there's four or five of them trying to claw and peck at the intruders. Wings and beaks were everywhere.

"We must be near their nests or something!" Gunner ducks another wild dive and grabs Bree's arm. "Let's get out of here before we're made into swiss cheese!"


Knowing Hope wouldn't give up on him even after everything they'd gone through... it gave Scott a nice warm feeling down deep. It was those kinds of feelings he treasured now more than he ever had before. No one could say he hadn't learned anything during this past year, even if much of it had been a nightmare.

When she brings up him taking Domino home, his eyes widen slightly. "I... well I'd like that sure but..." Be bites his lip then looks down at the dog then back up to Hope. "Are you sure? I mean I kinda dumped her on you and I'm sure you've gotten used to having her around. I... I'd feel badly... taking her away from you..."


Mick hadn't expected company, but he doesn't say anything when Rosetta joins him. Nor does he pull away. Rather, he's quiet for a moment then slips his arm around her shoulders, drawing her in even closer.

"Dylan's gone," he mentions quietly. He didn't know if word would have spread by now or not. "I have... all but failed miserably ever since my kids showed up here." He sighs. "I probably never should have let them get involved here at all."


"So where's he been?"

"All over the place."

"Ever out of town?"

"Nope. I think even he knows that would be pushing it." Hal leans back in his chair, twirling a pencil between his fingers.

Reese paces the small office, dissatisfied. "You said he's got a motorcycle?"

"Yep. Least ways that's what I can tell. He gets around fast and I've seen a bike parked near the apartments. No proof, but I'd say it's a good guess."

"Well how on earth would he get his hands on one? He makes barely enough money to eat, let alone purchase anything. He'd never be able to afford a motorcycle."

Hal shrugs. "Maybe I'm wrong. But he's got transportation somehow. He can't walk as fast as we're tracking him."

Reese growls in frustration. "He's been working hard labor for almost two months now. I thought he woulda calmed down by now or at least run out of some steam."

Hal bites his tongue to keep from laughing. "You're the one who suggested a longer leash, remember? Didn't you say something about getting results from more freedom rather than-"

"Yeah, yeah." Reese waves his hand. "I know. I'm just so scared one of these days he's going to be stupid."

"Well, he can't go anywhere without us knowing it. And like I said, he hasn't left town. Now I know Alec is a hothead and he likes to think he's in control of everything. But I also know he's not stupid and whether he'd admit it or not, I'd bet you anything he knows good and well we're the ones in control. He might test us to see how far we'll let him go, but he's not going to be stupid."

"You think?"

"I do."

Reese paces a little more. "You're probably right. I do think I'll drop by his place though and ask him a few questions. I was just about ready to decrease his work to four days a week instead of six, but I want to find out what he's been up to before I do that."

"Good idea. Still reporting to Brown right?"

"Yeah. He's convinced Alec is gonna screw up. I keep arguing with him, while all the while in the back of my mind I'm just hoping he's not right."

Hal purses his lips and nods. "You want me to go see Alec this time instead?"

"No... no, I better so I can report to Brown. Thanks though. Keep up the good work."


...A couple hours later, Reese was at Alec's apartment. "Where'd you get the bike?"

Alec lowers the juice carton and swallows before wiping his mouth with his sleeve. Standing in the tiny kitchen, he lifts an eyebrow at Reese. "Friend of a friend."

Reese folds his arms. He'd only been here five minutes and already his hackles were up. "The truth, Alec. You don't have any money to be buying a motorcycle."

Alec smirks before returning the juice to the refrigerator. "Look... so I've got a bike. What do you care? Last I looked, you weren't arresting me from wandering away from my apartment. Or are you going to start now?"

Reese shakes his head and sighs. "I think the work you're doing is enough punishment, don't you?" Alec looked tired. Worn. Thin. It was obvious he'd been working hard days as he was sentenced. Whether Reese wanted to feel compassion or not, he did. "You know good and well we're watching your every move. We might not have come down on you for wandering around town, but you haven't made a nuisance of yourself either."

Alec gives him a wry grin. "No nuisance, no getting arrested, eh?"

"Something like that."

"So are you actually giving me permission to go wherever I please?"

"I'm telling you to watch your step," Reese warns. "You keep pushing the line and you're liable to find out just where it is, but by then it'll be too late. So I advise you to not go wandering too far."

A few minutes later, Alec was left alone once again. In the quiet. He goes to the window and watches Reese pull away. He knew he was acting all tough and cocky. But on the inside...

Gritting his teeth, he turns from the window. No. He wasn't about to go digging into his own feelings. It hurt too much. No, he was still working on a way to get out of here and get back to where he'd once been. The bike had been the first step. In reality, he'd simply worked through several people to get to someone who owed him a favor. It hadn't been that hard. The next step was finding a real job so he'd have some time off.

Question

Letting out a sigh and watching Mick go Dan new if Dylan wasn't in town he would be the one looking for him. Him didn't have to tell him that because it would of been just something he would have done.

Turning and heading back into the dinning hall Dan lets out a long sigh. He wasn't as happy as before and a bit more quiet but he did his best to not be to down for Jade's sake. Sitting down next to her he takes her hand in his own and gives it a little squeeze. Lunch, than looking for Dylan. It was going to be a long afternoon already

Having Gunner sit down next to her Bree was happy he was feeling better enough to move around now. He looked a lot better too for the most part and Bree was glad for that. She had been worried about him and when JT said it was good he was sleeping now she had just let him be. It didn't bother her that the day was almost over as long as Gunner was ok.

"They are pretty cute. Its just nice to see my Uncle happy. He deserves it too. Though....I think you right I think we are even cuter."

Laughing and standing Bree holds her hand out to Gunner. She'd enjoyed there start to a walk before she would enjoy finishing it too. Not to mention there was a bit of wonder on what Gunner had been getting at with his little speech too.

"Alright...let go!"

Sitting with her book open by JT Amanda reads quietly, every once and a while putting it down to have a little bit of small talk. After the excitement they had this morning just sitting back and relaxing was nice.

"You know I am kind of glad they stole us away. This really has been a nice breath of fresh air. I'd almost forgot what going on vacation was."

Giving a smile to JT she really was having a new time. Even if at times they both felt a little awkward. It was still nice to just relax, and have fellowship with someone she liked and was growing to like more and more!

Driving up and down the streets it doesn't take Dan long to get to the bus station to first see if Dylan was there. Nothing seeing him Dan goes back out to the truck and stops as he see the missing ranch truck outside the small dinner. Not going in right away Dan backtracks to the feed store. He had to place an order so he might as well do that first.

Once finished he heads back to the dinner and enters. Not even looking at Dylan he goes to the counter and orders a coke and two ice cream Sundays. Once for himself and one for Jade. Waiting and leaning on the counter Dan scans the dinner. Seeing Dylan he acts a bit surprised and gives a wave. Picking up his coke and walking over her gives a small grin to Dyaln.

"Fancy meeting you here. Though for sure you'd be long gone by now. Mind if I sit while I wait for the ice cream? Had to come into town to put the feed order in, through while I was here maybe Jade would like if I brought her back some."

Now Dan only hopped Dylan would let him sit down. But asking was better than just doing it. Maybe that in itself would give him the right to sit with him younger friend, and show that he did respect him.

Hope lets her smile grow a little more. Hope would never give up on Scott. How could she, he was way to important to even think of that. No matter whatever happened Scott would always hold a place in her heart and be special that was something Hope new for sure.

"Don't you worry Scott, I wont give up on you and I'll remind you that ever day if I have too."

Standing and giving a little stretch Hope looks down at Domino still next to Scott not leaving his side. It made her feel good to see the little pup so full of life again. Without Scott she just hadn't been the same. They had both lost a best friend, and Hope new what she had to do.

"How about we go into the living room and get Domino's things together. I have a feeling she wont let you leave now without her."

Wondering into the house Rosetta wondered if Mick was in here. After stepping out with Dan and never returning she was a little worried. He hadn't left she saw his truck still in the driveway but where he was she didn't know. BJ was over at Wendy and Clint's playing with his cousins so that gave her a little bit of free time now to find Mick.

Going to the living room Rosetta stands in the doorway for a long moment just watching Mick as he sat on the couch. Finally though she goes in and sits down on the couch with her husband. She wasn't sure everything that was going on but seeing the look on Mick's face she could tell it was bothering him.

Not saying anything Rosetta reaches over to Mick and slips her hand in with his interlocking them together letting him know she was there.