Need Help

Dalton gives a nod to Scott. It sounded like a good idea to him for Scott to work than lunch. Maybe it would make a rutean out of things and in the long run help him get back into the rythem. Having that down pat would be important and continue to help him move forward.

   "I'll see you tomorrow than Scott. Have a good rest of the day."

As Jason whips her tears away Misty just looks at him for a moment. She was sad, she was down in the dumps, but his words broke through. Even if they didn't make her feel much better they still broke through and gave her a little hope that everything would be ok, even if it didn't seem like it now.

   "Thanks Jas. I guess...Its just gonna take some time to mend again. I was just completely blindsided by this. It's just eating me alive that I was so blinded and with all the strange things that had been happening over the last month or so I never once saw this coming."

Still the whole reality of everything seemed to be sinking in. Misty new she would have to tell her Uncle, and a few other people and she new it was going to be hard. She wasn't sure though when the whole thing really sank in and when it did how it was going to affect her. The world was just all turned around right now.

   "I think the scariest thing right now is the unknown. I know I need to move forward and stay healthy not for just my sake but for my baby's sake too...but not know what is going to happen is scary."

Leaning her head back on the couch Misty just closes her eyes for a second. She was emotionally tired, but she couldn't help but wonder if sleep would come easy or not. Maybe getting her mind off everything and one something a little more exciting would be better.

   "I think I want to turn the spare bedroom upstairs into the babys room. Make it look really nice and everything. If I need any help...can I call you?"

No Reason

Jason's heart breaks all over again, watching Misty. Oh how he hated what Carson had done to her... this woman full of life, love, energy, spark. He had reduced her to this... broken, lonely and scared. 

"Hey now." He reaches over and wipes a tear away with his thumb. "I know it's not the same, but you got an awful lot of people behind you. None of us are gonna let you down when you need help." Just wait until Rick, Susanne and Reese knew about this. They alone would do all they could for Misty. Not to mention just about everybody else on the Elite force. Misty might not realize it, but she was very much loved at the office - enough so that nobody would leave her high and dry.

Shifting so he's sitting sideways on the couch, Jason tries to give Misty a smile. He knew that whether his words were encouraging or not, they probably wouldn't make her feel much better at this point. She would still be alone tonight. And the next night. And the next. 

"And... you're gonna make a great mother. I mean you're awesome. There's no way you could make a bad mom even in the slightest." He wipes another tear. "You have a right to feel a lot of things right now... but there's just no reason to be scared." 

It was getting late and was dark outside. A light rain sprinkled down, just enough to be irritating. A pickup parks out by the curb and two figures work quickly to gather the items from the yard. A few things were left for garbage pick-up or anybody who wanted them. But the majority was cleaned up within minutes, thrown into the back of the truck to be sorted through later. Though the two people seemed to have a heated argument once they were back in the cab, their doing had been silent so that they would not disturb anyone in the house.

Returning Dalton's handshake, Scott stands. "Thanks, Dalton... I needed this today to prove to myself I really am ready to get back to work. I appreciate it." 

Invited to lunch, he thinks for a moment then nods. "Yeah... okay. Last I knew, Saph had lunch plans with Gage so I can ask Hope. I know she won't turn me down." Though smiling, there was a small bit of weariness in his eye. He knew good and well that Hope was still waiting for a deeper relationship - to be more than friends again. She never pressured him and they hadn't talked about it since he'd gotten back, but he knew. He knew it was still there, lingering... waiting on him. 

He tries not to show any of that on his face though, not wanting Dalton to think he didn't really want to do lunch. "Maybe I'll come in and work the morning then, and after lunch I can just head home."

Fear

Nibbling on her slice of pizza Misty was thankful Jason stayed. Some where in her mind she was thankful encase Carson came and tried to get into the house. Someone would be there to keep him out. Also she was happy to have one of the people she trusted the most with her. Jason had always been special to her so him being here meant a lot.

   "I"ll be...I can't say I'll be ok because I dont honestly know Jas. I will survive though and move forward for me, and for the baby."

Misty lays a hand over her stomach. She wasn't that far along but she was far enough that she could tell a life was growing inside her and despite the heartach it was also filled with joy. Though her worry still lingered. Would she be ok? Would the baby be ok? What would it be like raising the child as a single mother. She would have to be ok though for this life...she had to be.

   "I'm scared though Jas. To raise this child alone, I thought...I though I would have someone behind me and now...I have no one. What if...what if I'm not a good mother? I'm scared...more than I was before, I'm scared Jas."

A few tears rolled out of Misty's eyes. Telling Carson had been a fear but she had, had hope they could work it out and get through it together. Now, now she was on her own and it was better than little a man use her for a child sake, but she didn't know the first thing about being a mother and it was frighting.

Standing and giving a nod Dalton understood Scott had to get going. He did have a life outside of here, and probley more things to do. Though he would miss his friend who had just shown back up Dalton new it was a must.

   "Why are you asking if you can come to your own office...Mmmmm...?"

Dalton gives a grin before holding out his hand to give Scott a hand shake. Scott might be different now, and things might have changed but he'd always be his little buddy and he's always like having him around.

   "If your asking if I mind having your company tomorrow the answer is no, I'd like it if you came again. I was going to do lunch with Dani tomorrow. Maybe you can come too and bring a friend along...Hope, you sister, anyone you'd like. It might be fun."

Tonight

Jason gives Misty a small smile and nods. "Of course I can, but you don't owe me anything. I'll call work in case anybody's missed me and... I'll stick around as long as you want me to." And he meant it. Misty was too good a friend to leave her when she needed him most. Not to mention, in the back of his mind, he wanted to be here in case Carson decided to show up.

"Let me help straighten things up in here..." He wanted to at least help her rearrange the living room so it looked settled without Carson's things. It would make it feel better in here. "And then I'll go out and grab us some supper."

Setting a hand on her shoulder, he gives it a little squeeze. He had a lot of questions... about the baby, about her and Carson... but none he would ask. It was not his place.

When calling work, he gave no explanation other than he was taking the rest of the day off. Helping clean up a few more things, he leaves to pick up some pizza. Tonight though, it came from the Pizza Box, not Mom and Pop's. Back to Misty's, he encourages her to sit and take it easy for a while and eat at least something, even if she didn't feel like it. He'd even brought a bottle of Dr. Pepper, knowing it was her favorite. 

...Leaning back in the couch after polishing off a third slice of pizza, Jason puts a foot up on the edge of the coffee table and turns his head to study Misty. He really was concerned about her, especially in her condition now. Carson certainly had great timing. If he'd known about the baby, would he have left? Jason had to wonder. Not that the answer mattered - it was over now, and the more he thought about it, the better it seemed that Misty had decided to act so quickly. There was no point in begging a man who would apparently never change. 

But now... tonight... pushing aside all that anger, what was Misty going to do? Would she be okay? Would she manage? Would she even stay here? 

"You gonna be alright tonight?" Jason asks gently.

Scott snickers and nods. "Yeah... whatever you do, don't mention gutters. Might be a bit of a buzzkill." 

Sighing, he finally sees the clock on the wall. "Speaking of buzzkills..." He glances at the computer, then back to Dalton. "I should probably go. Domino's gonna wonder where in the world I am." 

He didn't feel like going yet though. After being here for several hours, it felt... good. And his house seemed so... empty. 

"I might come in again tomorrow... if that's okay?" 

Flower

Working quietly and quickly Misty didn't talk. She didn't exchange words with Jason, she didn't make small talk, ask for about work, talk about the baby she didn't talk about anything. She just worked, pointed out what needed to be moved, and what went outside, the stuff for the trash and the stuff she didn't care about. 

As it turned into later afternoon and everything was out on the lawn the air was thick and almost smelled like rain. Misty didn't care though if Carson's stuff got wet, if it got ruined it did no matter. Her life was ruined in the snap of the fingers.

Turning to Jason and his question Misty thinks for a long moment. There wasn't anymore work right now she could think of that needed to be done. But it still was going to be a long night. The first night in a long long time Misty would be doing everything alone.

   "Do...do you think you could stay just a little while longer with me? I'm not ready to face everything alone after so long. Maybe dinner and a pizza, we could call it a thank you for helping me."

Misty stood feeling so defeated and lost. She had to be strong, strong for her baby but at this moment she felt broken. Her arm stretched across her stomach she felt like crying again but held the tears away. There would be much more crying but for now...for now she did her best not too.

As his friend says yes and Dalton see the smile that grows on his face he couldn't help the smile on his own. He felt nervous just talking about it, how on earth was he going to ask Dani himself.

   "I...I have no idea. I'd like it to something really special thought. She deserves the best so I'm still trying to come up with something. I'm really nervous about it..I guess because there could always be a chanse she would say now. But than again...I guess thats every guys fear right?"

Dalton gives a laugh as he puts his arms behind his head thinking for a long moment. He's come up with lots of plans on how to ask Dani but none seemed to strike him right not yet.

   "Maybe I can take her to the lake for a candle dinner. I guess anything would be better than calling her a gutter flower like I did when I first met her. It was meant to be a complement and its just...came out all wrong."

Katie gives a nod to Trent. She was happy he'd come and they had talked. It really was nice to chat with him and what information he shared with her had made her feel a little better. It was nice and she new already she'd made a good choose coming here.
  

Anything else?

Misty's questions did make sense to Jason. No... no, he wouldn't want to work things out if his spouse had done all that either. He just hoped a week from now that Carson was still happy with his decision. Yes, in a sad, pitiful way, Jason hoped he'd finally be happy. But he doubted it. A man like that, who could never keep his promises or keep his hands to himself... it was a hard, self-inflicted road that awaited him. And yet... it's what he deserved for such behavior. To have left Misty in this way was despicable.

"I'm sorry," Jason apologizes. He hadn't meant to upset Misty further - he was just in shock and had only wanted to make sure she wasn't only acting in the heat of the moment. Maybe she was, but he also recognized that look in her eye and he knew good and well that after today, she'd still feel the same. This wasn't just a fleeting decision she would regret. No... she'd made up her mind. 

Nodding, he follows her directions without any more questions. As he works though, his mind wanders. Cleaning out the desk, he found notes, trinkets and photos that spoke of the couple's love for each other. Smiles, short words of love... These were all things that Carson had betrayed. Turned his back on. Trampled on. And there were several painful moments when he thinks of Katie and all that had been torn apart for them too.

Jason works quickly, helping Misty get the worst of it over with. Although Carson deserved no mercy, Jason does his best to at least keep things piled together in the yard for easy pick-up. There was no point in strewning it about just for spite. The more he works though, the more his initial shock wears off and evolves into a righteous anger. Several times he stopped to watch Misty working, noting her bent shoulders, her hollow eyes, and her tears. They cut him to the quick and he wished there was more he could do to help her. But he knew there was not. There were no band aids for the heart. The most he could hope for was that despite Carson's absence being painful for Misty - that he never return. It wasn't fair to her. 

He wasn't sure how much time had passed when finally the couple pieces of furniture were moved out as well. But it seemed the job was about finished. Standing in the living room, he eyes Misty with uncertainty. Oh how he wished there was more he could do. Was she going to be okay? Not just on her own, but with a baby on the way too? 

"Is there anything else I can do?" he asks quietly. 

Hearing Dalton was going to ask Dani to marry him, Scott's grin widens. Then to be asked to be Dalton's best man? He beams. "Of course I will." He gives Dalton's arm a teasing punch. "I didn't know you two were that serious. That's great." 

He truly was happy for his friend. If he really thought about it, deep down there was a twinge of sadness, but it was only selfishness. It seemed most people he knew were moving on with their lives, and in a way, he felt as though he were standing still - or at least that he'd missed out on a whole chunk of life the last couple years. 

"Decided how you're gonna ask her yet?" 

"Mm..." Trent reaches over and gives Katie's hand a pat. "It's not waiting to see if it works out... it's just waiting for it to work out." 

Hearing the door open, his attention is diverted and he stands. "I better get out to the barn. You hang in there and I'll see you later, okay?" 

Would you?

Hearing Jason ask if she was sure she wanted to leave Carson Misty turns and just looks at him in almost a dumb founded look. Was he really asking her that? That she was sure they couldn't work things out.

   "Would you want to work things out with someone was was sleeping with another person? Laying down, kissing holding someone else. Would you like to kiss the lips knowing that the had been on someone else? No Jason there is no working things out because what Carson did and still is doing is wrong."

Turning Misty didn't care if anything though she was acting quickly. Weather it was today, or tomorrow what Carson was doing would still be wrong. He still will have held another woman, and he still would of broken there marriage vows.

   "If you could get the stuff off the desk in the study and throw it outside I'll take his clothing. Than I will need help with his dresser, desk, and the chair in he living room thats his. I don't want it anymore."

Dalton smiles and gives a nod leaning back in his own chair. He was please with what Scott had dont and was proud of him too. He'd been gone a long time but his skills were still hard and that was good.

   "A few tweaks and time on our side and we should be sit. I doubt anyone in The Agency could do it faster than you. So one would hope by time they cracked it we would already know about it."

Today...had been a good day and Dalton was happy. Taking a sip from his can of Pop he looks over at Scott. This felt right, like it was meant to be this was and he was happy.

   "Hey, I got a question for you. I haven't asked Dani yet, but when I do and we pick the right time. Will you be the best man at my wedding?"

Sure?

Jason closes his eyes for a moment and sighs deeply. He couldn't believe Carson had done this... again... after all he and Misty had been through... after all the promises... after even getting married. Everyone had thought he had changed, even Jason. 

"Don't be sorry," he assures. "I'm glad you called me."

Setting his hands on his hips, he takes a look around at the mess, not knowing what things were Carson's and what things were Misty's. It would be up to her to tell him what to do. At the same time though, he hoped that she was making the right decision. 

"I'll help you however I can and I'll stay as long as it takes," he promises. "Just..." He bites his lip. He knew she was upset and he knew that she was terribly and deeply hurt. "Are you sure? Are you sure there's no chance of working things out? I'll help you do whatever you want, I just... want to make sure this is really what you want." 

"Reese?" Susanne pokes her head into his office.

"Hmm?" He looks up absentmindedly from his paperwork. "Yes?"

"Um, well, I was just wondering..." Susanne lets herself in. "I hadn't heard much about Alec lately."

Reese smiles a little, knowing that Susanne had always had a soft spot for Alec, even from the beginning. "Well, I haven't heard an awful lot either."

"It's been a couple weeks since you set him free, right?"

"Yeah." Reese sighs. "All I know is he's been drunk a lot, but he's been job hunting.

Susanne finds it sad, as her face shows. "Isn't there anything we can do?"

"Not anymore. If he comes and asks for help, I'll consider it. But it's time he learned the hard way how life is lived. He wanted freedom - now he's got it."

"Are you really going to evict him after the six weeks is up?"

"I am."

Susanne sighs. "Okay. I guess I was just curious." 

"Opah..." Scott leans back, swiveling in his desk chair as his eye remains on his computer. A can of Mountain Dew sat empty next to the monitor and several hours had passed already. 

A little grin quirks his mouth as he waits for Dalton to take a look. "It's good... real good..." But he'd broken through. "I don't think it'll take but a few tweaks though."

Fool

As Jason takes Misty in his arms she just falls into him. She was so lost, so hurt and so confused. What had she done wrong? Was there just something about her? What was it that Carson found in another woman he could not find in her? There were so many questions left with no answers. 

   "I've known for about  three days now that I am pregnant. I was waiting to tell Carson because I wasn't sure how he would act. So I picked today was a good day over a nice lunch. Before I called you I went to Mom and Pop's and confronted him. I told him all his stuff would be on the front lawn and not to bother trying to come inside. I don't want anything to do with him."

Pulling away from Jason and looking around the house Misty just wanted to continue doing what she had been doing. She didn't know if Carson would be leaving work early or not but she didn't want to chance it. The quicker it was done and over with the better.

   "Sorry I bothered you, but I need...some help...with the bigger stuff. I can't get it outside on my own in my condition and your the first one I thought of the I trusted more than anyone else."

Misty takes in a deep sniff trying to dry her tears and not dribble snot all over herself. She hurd so bad but didn't want to slow down. Not now...this had to get done...now.

   "I was such a fool once again. I really thought he'd changed."

Safety

As soon as Jason sees Misty's face and tears, fear grips him. What on earth was going on? He couldn't remember ever seeing her like this before, and it scared him. Carson... Carson what? The house was a wreck with things strewn all over the place. Had someone been here? Was she hurt? Was Carson hurt? 

Listening to Misty's explanation, Jason's eyes widen. Carson had been cheating on her? Seriously? Wait, had she just said he was going to be a father? 

Speechless, Jason dumbly steps into the house with her and accepts the note she hands him. Reading it once, he has to read it again to truly believe it. It was Carson's handwriting alright. He really had been cheating on her. 

Looking back to Misty, Jason's heart breaks for her. He'd been dumped by his girlfriend a week ago - that was bad enough. Misty had just been betrayed by her own husband - that was something on a whole other level. "Aw, Misty... I am... so sorry..." 

What else could he say? Her tears cut him to the quick and he felt utterly helpless. Tucking the note in his back pocket, he steps towards her and gently pulls her into his arms, wrapping her in safety. "You're okay," he soothes. "Shh..." 

Pulling back just a little, he tucks her hair behind her ear, wiping away some of her tears. "Are... are you really pregnant? Have you seen Carson since reading this note?"

Hate

Katie smiles at her Uncle and gives a slight nod. She con thankful for his confidence and she could only hope it was true. Being able to find her way again was important and she only hoped that she could. It wasn't going to be easy but she was ready for it.

   "Thanks Uncle Trent....I just...it sucks at this point. Waiting to see if its going to work out is just hard sometimes."

At home Misty starts working on packing boxed, and taking cloths out of the closet. Misty didn't care what happened to the items or where she was throwing them. Some items didn't even make it into a box but to the lawn just like that. Tears streamed down Misty's face her anger still in the mixed but more sorrow, pain, and sadness showing at the moment.

Hearing the knock on the door Misty goes to see who it was. Seeing Jason she opens the door and just starts crying more. If anyone would understand her she new it would be him. The understood each other in more ways than anyone would know.

   "Jason its...Carson. He...."

Misty had a hard time getting the words out as the tears just streamed down her face. It was so hard believing this was happening again after all this time Carson would throw everything away.

   "I was going to meet him here today for lunch to tell him the good news that he was going to be a father...and when I got home...I found a little on the table from him telling me he's been cheating on me for months again."

Opening the door Misty lets Jason come in before taking the letter from the little side table and handing it to him. Her hands shook, the house was in shambles as she had his stuff all over the place. She just wanted it gone, she wanted him gone, she didn't want to think or look at him. Right now the man she had loved so much...she hated.


 

Quietness

Trent quietly listens to Katie, leaning back in his chair and watching her as she spoke. He was the least involved of any of the family, but that didn't mean he didn't know what was going on or that he didn't care. He did care... a lot. And right now, his heart went out to his niece. 

"I'm sorry, hun..." He purses his lips and nods slowly. "Sounds like you're going through a bit of a rough patch there." He certainly knew about rough patches. 

"Guess I don't have any miracle advice... but I'm glad you decided to come here." He offers her a new small smile. "Things have a way of becoming clearer when we take the time to step back and let ourselves just 'be' for a while. If I know you, you'll get this figured out." 

Working at the stove with his back to the kitchen door, Carson is unaware of Misty's presence until she speaks. At the sound of his name, he whirls around to face her. The shocked look in his eye proved that he had not expected her to come down here. He had assumed she would be too upset to see him... He'd been wrong. 

His mouth opens to respond, but he cannot get a word in as Misty continues. And as she does, his expression slowly evolves from shock to anger to horror. His heart drops to the floor as he pales, unable to believe his ears. He had expected the anger and lack of forgiveness. He had expected her to hate him. But... a child? She was pregnant? Misty was pregnant with their child? He was going to be a father again? This... was not expected. 

His eyes focus on a closed door as suddenly Misty is gone, and the quietness feels as loud as thunder. 

Just finishing his hamburger, Jason feels his phone vibrating in his pocket. Seated at the picnic table with the others, he retrieves it, surprised to see Misty's number show up. 

Answering and hearing her strained voice, he's immediately put on edge. "Yeah, sure, no problem. I'm up at the lake so it'll take me a while but I'll be there as soon as I can." 

He wanted to ask what was going on, but he could tell that details would have to wait. What was up, and why did she sound so upset? "I'm on my way." 

Ending the call, he looks with apology to his friends. "That was Misty. Something's come up." He'd let them assume it was work - maybe it actually was. But he doubted it. "Thanks for inviting me out - I had fun." 

After bidding all a quick farewell, he takes off, heading back to town. Taking advantage of slapping his blue light on the roof of his pickup, he knew he could get in trouble for using it when it wasn't an emergency call, but it at least allows him to make it to town much faster. 

Arriving at Carson and Misty's, Jason parks in the driveway behind Misty's car and heads up to the door, ringing the bell.

Never

Katie gives a small laugh thinking about her Uncle and staying out of trouble. Whenever anyone always said that it made her laugh for some reason. Why she wasn't sure of but it was just one of those things she guessed.

   "Well staying out of trouble is always good, but a tiny tiny bit of trouble is ok once and a while."

Looking out the window again watching the rain pitter patter on the window the sky was starting to turn a dull shade of gray. The sun always came up if you just wanted for it. Katie wondered about that statement for a moment. The Sun always did come up, but it didn't always shine.

   "I'm...surviving. How well is what I am not to sure of but thats why I am here. Jason and I broke up after I saw another woman kissing him. He said he didn't kiss her back and he didn't cheat on me and I think I believe him...but I still feel angry and hurt. I'm just all messed up right now and don't know what way it up, and what way is down. I just don't feel like I belong anywhere anymore."

Letting out a sigh Katie's explanation on how she was, was a whole lot longer to Trent than she had planned. It just had been the right moment though she guessed and maybe her Uncle would understand a little bit of what she was trying to explain. That in itself had become a lot harder in itself.

Sitting outside the house in her car Misty could feel her stomach twist and turn. Today would be the day she told Carson. He was going to be a father again, they were going to grow there family and it scared her more than anything. She'd deiced just meeting at the house for lunch would be better than go out anywhere.

Taking note that Carson's care was bit here yet Misty figured he'd gotten help up at work but would be home at anymore. That was ok with her it would give her time to set up lunch and a little more time to go over in her head how she was going to tell Carson.

Heading inside and throwing her keys on the coffee table Misty sets her purse down too and heads into the kitchen. Walking right to the fridge she grabs what she needs to make lunch and puts the items on the counter. Going to the cupboard and getting out plates Misty turns to the table and sets them down. Finally seeing a small note she cocks her head. Strange that it was just sitting there marked to her.

Picking up the note and slowly reading the words Misty's smile slowly fades as she continues to read. Her stomach started to churn and she felt like she was going to be sick, tears slowly slip out of Misty's eyes and down she cheeks. She couldn't believe what she was reading. This had to be some kid of sick joke. 

Reading the letter over again Misty can feel an anger start to boil in side her mixed with the pain, and the agony. Reading it again there was more angry, more tears. Reading it once more she was beyond hot. Standing Misty wouldn't let him get away with this. He had tricket her, lied to her, cheated on her, turned his back on her AGAIN. No...Misty wouldn't take it than and she wouldn't take it now. He would not act like it was just another walk in the park.

Leaving the house and slamming the door behind her one of the pictures falls off the wall and shatters on the ground but it goes unnoticed. Getting into her car and making her way to Mom and Pop's it takes no time as Misty gets out of her car. Not even bothering to stop and ask if Carson was in there she makes a bline for the kitchen closing the door behind her. She was angry, her temper flaring. Seeing Carson with his back to her it only made her that much angrier.

   "Carson Grabreil Banks, I can't believe you. After everything, EVERYthing we have been through you go and pulls a stunt like this. You cheat on me, lie to me, and turn your back on our family again. This time I wont forgive you. I wont forgive you now, or years down the road. I've had it. And to think I though you really had changed I was a fool Carson and so are you because you just lost the best thing in your life forever."

Misty stops herself from saying a curse word as she wraps her arm around her stomach. It felt uncomfortable and reminded her she needed to calm down. It was not only her health that would be in danger but her unborn childs health too.

   "I wasn't you gone forever and dont think about stepping foot into my house. All your stuff will be laying on the lawn by night fall so you better pick it up before someone steals it and the rest are taken by the trash man."

Turning Misty goes to leave. She didn't want to look at Carson anymore, she didn't want to talk to him anymore..She just wanted to get away. Getting to the door Misty stops before turning slightly to look over her shoulder. There was still one thing she needed to tell Carson.

   "Oh, by the way congratulations I found out a few days ago your going to be a father again. Don't worry though you wont ever have to see the child. Even if you wanted to you wont now. I just wanted to be the bigger person and let you know. Good Bye Carson."

With that Misty turns and leaves not stopping just heading right out and back into her car. She had work to do and she didn't want to wait. This was the last straw and her mind was not going to be changed. Home was not her path chooses right away. She was going to need help with her condition and she new who would more than likely help. Pulling out her own she dials Jason number and waits for him to answer. She new her voice was shaky and her anger clean.

   "Hey Jas, I need your help, can you meet me at my house please. I can explain more once you get there and I am a little calmer."

Note

Trent nods and eases down in a chair next to Katie's. "Thanks... It's good to see you. Been a while." 

He offers her another smile, but something didn't seem right. Katie's eyes were... dim. He'd heard that things had been a little rough after the whole Jason almost dying thing, then their connection being gone. Was he here with her? He wondered. "I've been alright. Same ol' same ol' I guess." He chuckles. "I haven't stirred up any trouble lately, so that's probably good." He cocks his head, still studying her. "How 'bout you?"


"Yeah, I saw her for lunch yesterday." Jason sits in the sand on the lakeside beach, feeling as though time had stood still and he'd never moved from this spot. Except things were different now.

Kyle nodes slowly, having just heard the whole story from start to finish about Sandy, Katie, the kiss, Katie leaving and now Jason trying to work things out with Sandy. His eyes drift to the lake, then over to where Phil and Rayne were splashing their bare feet around in the water, then further to where Alice was walking. He and Phil had opted for a double-date to the lake today for a picnic, but when he'd gotten Jason's phone call that he just needed to talk, he hadn't hesitated to invite him. It wasn't quite the same with an extra person along, but Kyle would never complain, and he was glad when the others hadn't minded either. That's what he loved the most about his close friends and family... they were all Christ-focused and ready to be a friend to someone in need no matter the day or hour. "How'd that go?"

"Oh... alright." Jason shrugs. "She felt terrible, especially when I told her about Katie. She never meant any harm and said she just acted on impulse. I believe her... I don't think she had any ill intentions, and she knows now that I'm not interested in her that way." He pauses, picking up a small, smooth stone to fiddle with. "I think we'll still be able to be friends and hang out - might be a little awkward at first but I think it'll be okay. We decided not to tell the other guys about it just to avoid embarrassment."

"Mmhmm." Kyle sighs and lays back, propped up on his elbows. "So how are you feeling?"

Jason shrugs again. "I don't know. Hard to tell anymore. I guess I was crushed at first - couldn't believe Katie would fly off the handle like that... never giving me a chance. Then I realized that if that's what she wanted, then so be it. We're not connected anymore so we actually can go our separate ways for once. All that time fighting it and worrying about what each other felt and not being able to be with other people... it's over." He pauses, squinting at the sunlit water. "I guess I'm angry that she handled things that way. Just wham, goodbye, never want to see you again. But... all I got now is my own future. I'm freer than I've been in a long time. No more hassles. No more needing to be rescued. No more knowing when I hurt she hurts. No more of that stupid connection."

Kyle listens quietly, sensing that despite Jason's words, his friend was in pain. "You miss it, don't you?"

Jason scoffs. "I guess a bit. Hated it, and now that it's gone, it feels too empty. At the same time, I'm glad. It just goes to prove that without the connection, Katie and I had nothing."

"You really believe that? You don't think you loved each other without it?"

"Maybe... but it obviously wasn't strong enough to hold us together when we couldn't read each other's minds."

Kyle didn't know if Jason had a point or not. He didn't know if their love had been driven by the connection or if it was genuine. But seeing them break up was sad, and he was also sad, not knowing how Katie was either - it had been a while since he'd seen her, and he missed her. He and the band had performed a few concerts lately and were getting busier, but he now regretted not making the time to see more of Katie along with Jason. There were days he missed JetStream, but still wouldn't trade his current life for anything. Not the band, not the life of music, and certainly not his fiance. "What are you gonna do now?"

"I don't know. Just move on, I guess. Katie hates me so... I can't revisit that. Just do my job, try to have some fun and keep trying to figure out my own emotions so I can get back to normal too."

"Dude... you were never normal."

Jason shoots Kyle a look before a grin emerges. "Thanks."

Kyle smiles. "Hang in there. God can bring good from this somehow, you know that."

Jason nods. He'd had a few shouting matches with God the last couple days, but every time, had ended up knowing that God was the one in control here, and somehow, some way he'd bring something from the chaos. "Yeah, I know... thanks for listening... guess I just needed to get things off my chest." He might have chosen Con first, but as close as Con was to Katie, Jason wasn't so sure he wanted to upset the big guy just yet.

"No thanks necessary." Kyle gives his shoulder a pat. "Ready for some lunch? I'm starving."

"Yeah... yeah, that sounds good." Jason checks his phone as he stands, making sure the office hadn't called. He was still on duty today and had just told Susanne he'd be gone for a long lunch.

Carson hurls a dishtowel across the kitchen, sending it into a pile of pots and pans that clatter to the floor.

Dani sticks her head in from the hall, her eyes wide. "You okay?"

"Fine," Carson growls. "Just... fine." But he wasn't. The last few days, things hadn't gotten any better. Misty hadn't pressed him to figure out why he'd gotten drunk last week, and he was just as glad. But he hadn't done a very good job at faking happiness either. And now, today it was noon. Misty would be going home for lunch. He'd said he'd meet her. But instead, he'd left her a note. A note that would change everything....

...At the house on the kitchen table was a hand-written note:

Misty,

Thank you for being a good wife. What I have to say next is not because of you - you've done nothing wrong and it's not your fault. It's mine.

I've been seeing Jaz DeMoy. My late nights haven't been spent at work. They've been spent at her place. I'm sorry I lied to you.

Jaz has agreed to let me move in with her. I've already taken some of my stuff - I'll get the rest later. If you need anything, let me know.

- Carson

...And now, as the clock ticks, Carson knows that Misty is reading it. He imagines the look on her face and her eyes... those eyes he had fallen in love with so long ago.

Shedding his apron, he slips out of the kitchen and heads to the bathroom to regain his composure before returning fifteen minutes later. Thankfully it was a quiet lunch hour and Carson starts cleaning tables even though Dani had just done it earlier. He needed to keep his hands busy.

Tweaks

Still in the same spot by the window with the cat nestled in her lap Katie hadn't even heard the door to the dinning all open. Her thoughts seemed to be lost darting from on thing to the next. It was hard to quiet her mind right now as she was feeling a whole lot of things she didn't understand, or even know how to identify.

Hearing Trent's voice Katie gives a jump as the cat on her lap gives a new and jumps down. Standing seeing her Uncle Katie gives a smile. Letting her heart return to her chest she shakes her head a little embarrassed that she had been startled. Giving a little wave she can feel a little color on her cheeks.

   "Hey Uncle Trent. I got in late last night. The only ones who saw me were Mick and Rosetta. I had to make sure my old bunk was still open."

Falling silent again for a moment it had been so long since Katie had been back here she wasn't even sure what to talk about. She'd changed without really changing but this emotion she could define it was awkwardness.

   "If you want to sit with me you can. How have you been?"

Dalton couldn't help but be slightly excited that Scott was willing to test his work. He'd missed this, the challenge of having someone else break his code. It was the only way to really know how well it would hold up. The Agency had some of the best so why not use the best to try and crack it.

   "Alright, its a simple code but underneath its something far more complicated. I put it into layers, the first on easy and than from there on out...no so much."

Reaching into one of the other drawers Dalton pulls out a disk and hands it to Scott. There were no marking on it so if anyone was to see it, they would just think it was a blank disk. But Dalton new what was on it and thats what really mattered. 

   "If it works, and can add a little more security I want to put it on all the computers so the files and data are fully covered. I am sure there as some tweaks that still could be made, and extra stuff that can be added. But its a start...no a rough draft but not the finished project either."

Five bucks

Scott grins, thinking about poor Ty having to clean up a mess. Mopping floors was bad enough. 

Seeing Dalton focusing on work again, Scott figures it was time for him to go, but just as he moves to get up, he has to rethink his options. Help Dalton today? He hadn't planned on it but... he didn't have anything else to do this afternoon. 

"Um..." It sure would feel good to get his fingers back on a keyboard again. "Okay." He nods. Leaning down to turn on his computer, it felt like he was getting reacquainted with an old friend. Watching the screen come to life, he blinks, jerking back slightly. To anyone seeing it, they might think he had some kind of a tic, not realizing what had just gone through his mind. Logging into the system, he squints a little before rubbing his eyes. He could do this... he knew he could. He just needed to focus. 

"Alright... what'dya got? Five bucks says I can get through."

"Daisies and plants." Eric nods, making that mental note. Asked what he likes, he shrugs. "I dunno..." No one had ever really cared to ask before. "The best gift is time... I love the rain... favorite music is soft rock... and I love quiet walks in the dark." 

He smiles as he continues walking with Stacy around the ranch. This was... nice. Unexpected, but nice. After making such a huge mistake with Dana, he'd thought for sure he wouldn't have another chance, let alone want one. But... Stacy was different. Maybe nothing would come of this at all. Maybe they'd date for a while then be done and go their separate ways. But for now at least... he was enjoying this. 

Eventually the walk brings them back to the row of bunkhouses, and Eric sighs. He was only a little sleepy, but he knew if he wanted to walk at all tomorrow, he needed to give his leg a rest on the heating pad. 

Stopping in front of his bunk, he turns to face Stacy. "Thanks for letting me walk with you. It was nice." 

Bending down, he gives her just a soft kiss on the cheek. "I'll see you tomorrow." 

Trent slips quietly into the back of the dining hall, stifling a yawn. It was barely light out yet, and it was spitting rain off and on, creating a dim outside atmosphere. Trent had woken early and been unable to quiet his mind enough to sleep any more, so he'd finally given in and risen. 

Smelling coffee, he wonders if Becky had also gotten up earlier than usual... he'd thought she wouldn't be here for another half hour yet. Just as he reaches the kitchen though, he sees a lone figure sitting near the window. Unsure who it was, he wanders a little closer before his eyebrows rise. 

"Katie?" Approaching, he gives her a small smile. "Hey, I didn't know you were here."

Shot

Starting to walk again Stacy felt really good. It was nice knowing Eric and herself where going to be able to start something and not having to worry about going to fast. They both needed time, trust to grown and for even deeper relationship. It really was an exciting thought and for once outside of her daughter Stacy was looking forward to the future.

   "I like daisys, but truth be told I kind of like plants more. They last longer so I can look at them and remember who gave them to me more than a week at a time."

Continuing to walk and leaning into Eric just a little bit Stacy couldn't remove the smile form her lips. She just felt so happy, like the missing puzzle peace had finally be found. It was a new journey, and she was read to walk it no matter where it took her.

   "So, what are some things you like?"

Dalton gives a laugh as he sits back in his chair and takes a bit of his own jerky. This day had started out as a not so good day, but now it was starting to turn around. There was always a good side to everything it was just finding it that mattered and today he had.

   "Ok, I will definitely watch how much of it you eat. If you barf on me, I will more than likely lose it myself and I am a pretty sure Ty does NOT what to clean that mess up."

Giving a laugh and turning his chair back to his computer Dalton looks over what he was working on for a moment. He new he'd have to get back to work soon and get this done for Reese but he was just so happy about Scott being back work seemed like something far from his mind.

   "Sooo...while you were gone I worked on some code, and new security features for our files and what not. I haven't had anyone test them out yet because I don't know anyone good enough to really give them a run for them money. You want to fire up your old computer there and give them a shot?"

Barf

Eric could feel his face turning hot at Stacy's words, not really knowing how to respond to that. He'd received compliments occasionally... Dana never said anything, though she'd been after him from the get-go. He'd assumed that was a compliment in itself. But... she'd never said it like Stacy. She'd never mentioned kindness, let alone smarts, and those were more important to him than looking good... although he couldn't help that one did make him feel good too.

Glancing down, he found it difficult to receive Stacy's compliments. "You're just sayin' all that so I'll get a big head and my hat won't fit anymore." Grinning, he moves his gaze back to her eyes again. "You're pretty amazing, you know that? You're the only person that can turn my face red more than ten times in five minutes flat."

Chuckling, he moves to slip his arm around her shoulders and start walking again. "So there's just one thing I gotta know before we start this thing... What's your favorite flower?"

Scott was grateful for Dalton's words. They made him feel better, with a little more confidence that he'd be accepted back into this circle without disappointment or condemnation. He's going to thank Dalton when he's suddenly tossed some jerky. Catching it, he laughs, a little sparkle coming to his eye. 

"You kidding? A man can't live without beef jerky - that's just wrong." 

Taking a piece, he tears off a bite with his teeth, still grinning. "I can't make a whole bag disappear like I used to," he admits. "Stomach just can't handle things like it used to but..." He takes another bite. "I can definitely partake in a small bit of daily goodness." He points the jerky at Dalton. "Just don't let me eat more than few pieces or I'll barf it back up all over your lap and trust me - you don't want to clean up that mess. Nastiness." 

Laughing again, he leans back in his chair... his chair. He might not be back here full time every day yet but... he was back. Oh how long it had been, and what a horribly difficult road he'd been traveling. But finally, finally, he could see the light he'd been searching for at the end of the never-ending tunnel.

Perfect

Looking up at Eric a smile spreads across Stacy's lips. There was something some his words that make her really believe what he said was true. Maybe it was because in a way he was like her. He'd been beaten, broken, abused and now just wanted someone to be easy with him and show him soft love.

   "I promise I will take the great care in the world while handling you heart. We will both mend them together. Together, we will learn and push forward."

Giving another smile and standing a little straighter to reach Eric's lips Stacy takes in the soft gentile kiss and her hear almost skips a beat. This was so much different than the love she once had a long time ago. That was what made this special...it was not like something old she had already experienced, it was new, she was discovering these feelings for Eric for the first time and though it scared the heck out of her, it drove her forward with excitement too.

   "Some of the things you do wont always be right...but thats what makes it perfect. Eric Pent, your one of the smartest, kindest, most handsomest guys I have ever met and I will be proud to tell people you are mine."

Watching Scott and listing to him Dalton gives a nod bringing his hands to his chin to rest it on them. He understood what Scott was saying and hearing him talk Dalton could tell he was a different Scott. His little buddy was in there but the experiences he went through had changed him. It didn't matter much to Dalton though Scott was still here, he was well, and on the road to recovery that was what matter...that he was ok.

   "Oh I have a feeling more people are proud of you now than disappointed. I think they all understand too that your not the same guy. Everything you have been through has changed you and it doesn't necessarily mean thats a bad thing either. Sometimes change is good."

Leaning back in his chair and giving a stretch Dalton goes once again into the draw and pulls out some beef jerky. Looking it over for a few second he finally holds it up and quirks a grin to Scott with a little humor in his voice.

   "Please though...tell me...your love for Beef Jerky is not gone."

Following his statement with a laugh Dalton throws some to Scott. He felt like a little kid again who's best friend had just moved back into town again. Scott was like a brother to him, his best friend and he was so happy for his return even if he had changed he's always be Scott to him.

Love to

For a few moments, Eric senses Stacy is going to say no, and he could feel his heart sinking just a little bit. Had he come on too strong? Or too sudden? 

But as she continues, his hopes surface again. Hearing her words, his heart gains a strange feeling. He wasn't really sure what it was. It was heartache, knowing her past and how she'd been hurt. It was empathy, being able to relate to that hurt and the hesitance to try anything again. It was compassion, knowing full well the desire to be gentle and take things slow. 

Coming to a halt and forcing Stacy to stop too, he takes her shoulders and turns her to face him. Looking down into her eyes, his smile is warm. "Whether things between us ever go any further or not... I will go slowly... as long as you go slowly with me. I will be gentle... as long as you're gentle with me. And I will bear with you... as long as you bear with me too."

Leaning down, he gives her lips a soft, tender kiss before retreating again. "I ain't really sure what I'm doing, or if I'm doing it right, so you're gonna have to tell me if I do something wrong... but... I'd love to date you, Stacy Cullen."

Seeing Dalton bring out the nameplates, a lump rises in Scott's throat. He'd had no idea they'd even been kept, let alone that Dalton had really been waiting for him to return. He hadn't been so sure he'd ever be back here again... but his friend had had more faith than he. 

Reaching down, he runs his finger over the nameplate on the desk before he looks back up at Dalton. His eyes glisten and it takes him a moment to control his emotions. "Thank you... Dalton. This, um... this really means a lot to me." 

Coming around the desk, he sits in his old chair and is quiet for several moments, his eyes just studying the computers. "I'm... I'm trying really hard to get my life back. Some days it's easier than I thought, and other days it's a whole lot harder than I thought. Sometimes I wake up in the middle of the night and think I ought to be back at Brookshire. Sometimes I sleep a whole night through and know I really am recovering." 

He pauses again before sighing deeply. "I think though that... what I need to remember is... I'm not the same person anymore. What I've been through has changed me, whether I like it or not. And I can regain some of my old self and my inner core is always the same... but my reactions, thought processes, how I think, my decisions... they're all different now. And I've been fighting it for so long that... maybe I failed to see that it's okay to be different than I was." 

His eyes move to look at Dalton, hoping his friend understood. "I guess my biggest fear is other people not understanding and hoping that I'm just the same old Scott when... I'm not... and I'm not going to be. I just don't want to disappoint anybody." 

Willing

Letting Eric lock hands with her once again after Dylan was gone the smile remains on Stacy's face. It really was starting to be nicer here than she had thought it would be. She felt like part of the family, and so quickly everyone had accepted Ashlee so quickly. It was really there own personal haven.

   "Well, I..."

Stacy lets out a long sigh. Its not that she didn't want to be more than friends with Eric she liked him a lot. It just had been such a long time since she dated anyone she wasn't sure if she was in the loop anymore. Was she really ready to open her heart to someone again?

   "I haven't dated anyone in a long time Eric. I like you a lot, your great to be around, and Ashlee loves you to death."

Stacy continues to walk as she talks. Remembering yesterday and this moment now she can't help that her heart skips a beat. A smile spreading across her face as she continues to think about it. That alone told her there were feelings there.

   "I'm scared to open my heart again to someone, if you promise to be gentile, bear with me, and we take it slow I will be willing to be more than friends with you...if...if thats what you want too."

Hearing Scott mention a cubicle Dalton cocks his head and than shakes it before going into his desk drawer and pulls two items out. Standing and walking to the door Dalton slips the one peace of plastic into the door with Scott's name on it. Taking the other peace he places the name plate onto the desk with Scott's name on it.

   "I wouldn't want anyone else in this office with me but you. I've been waiting for you to come back."

Dalton can't help the large smile that spreads across his lips. He really did enjoy sharing his space with Scott. They had always challenged each other, entertained and just worked well together. Dalton was happy he had his friend back.

   "I really did miss you around here. It was to quiet."

Special

Dylan smirks a little and nods. "Yeah... yeah I had a nice time." Getting caught like this only caused to remind him why Stacy was here in the first place though, and it was not how he wanted to end his day. However, there was more surprise in his eyes than he realized. She really wasn't even going to chide him? He knew coming this way hadn't been the smartest thing in the world, but she wasn't even going to say it? He wasn't quite sure how to take that.

"I'll um... get back to my bunk now. You two..." He looks back and forth between Stacy and Eric, guessing that they hadn't just happened to wind up here at the same time. "Have a good time." 

Watching Dylan walk away, Eric quirks an eyebrow at that last comment. That boy was too smart for his own good. Looking over at Stacy, he shakes his head. "I don't know what's worse - finding an actual intruder, or discovering it's him making his own trouble." He more amused than upset though.

Moving closer again, he returns his hand to hers. "So... where were we?" He starts forward at a slow pace once more. "Oh yes..." Now that he was there though, he wasn't quite sure how to proceed. His hand swings Stacy's a little and his eyes move to the ground as they walk. "Are we... I mean... do you..."

As his cheeks grow warm, he stops and turns to face her, giving her a sheepish grin. "I ain't got a clue what I'm trying to ask," he admits. "Well maybe I do... Was last night how you want it? I mean... you and me... us?" His fingers remain interlocked with hers and he looks down into her eyes with question and hope. "I don't wanna do nothin' you don't, but..." He shrugs, not knowing if he was making sense or not. They'd said a lot last night while at the miniature golf course, but nothing was conclusive in his mind. Maybe it was just the heat of the moment and Stacy didn't really want anything more than that. If that were true, then he needed to know so he didn't make any more a fool of himself. Although he thought she'd been hinting this evening that dating him wouldn't be so bad.

"I guess I'd like to be more than friends with you... if you'd like it too." He swallows hard. "Least ways then I could... treat ya special like I want to."

Getting pulled into the giant hug and being lifted off the floor, Scott can't help but laugh. Dalton was like a big brother and always made Scott feel wanted. If he ever needed anything, he knew he could count on Hulk to come through. 

With his feet back on the ground, he grins and shakes his head. "I'm alright. One day at a time, ya know?" 

Letting Dalton go back to the desk, Scott wanders in the office further and tucks his hands in his pockets. "I, um... just got done talking to Reese and he said there was still a job for me here. Not sure what I can handle yet - I'm just now starting to be by myself at home again, but... I'd like to give something around here a try. So..." 

He looks at the computers then back to Dalton. "I was thinking maybe starting out like a couple days a week or something? I know there's a couple cubicles open on the main floor if you've gotten used to having your own office, and I'm okay with that."  

Little Buddy

Seeing it was Dylan Stacy lets out a small sigh of releaf and holsters her gun. She was thankful it was only him, and that he was ok. She new he new better than to be about this late but they couldn't baby him all the time. He had to have a life too and since he was at Sparky and Faith's, she new at least it was safe there.

   "I think today...he dosn't need either. As long as he had a nice time with them that is?!"

Stacy crosses her arms over her chest and just looks at Dylan with a grin on her lips. She could be upset about this but what was the point? There was no harm done, and everyone was ok. This could of turned out far worse and Stacy new it.

   "I will, thanks again Rick."

Misty gives a smile and a nod to Rick. She new he was there for her and he would help in anyway he could. For than she was thankful. Not the next step was figuring out when to tell Carson. Misty hoped he would be excited but at the same time she new he would be upset too. She hadn't planned for this to happen its just...did.

Typing away at the computer Dalton was totally into what he was doing. Hearing the knock he doesn't even look up but waves the person in. Hearing Scott's voice though his head snaps up and what he had been working on had been forgotten.

   "Scott...of course you can."

Standing up Dalton can't help it he goes over to Scott and puts his arms around him in a hug lifting him off the ground a little bit. He missed Scott around here so much, and he missed talking to him as well. He was his friend, the brother he never had...oh how he had missed him.

   "How are you little buddy?"

Job

The rustling in the underbrush comes to a sudden halt at Stacy's command. 

Dylan freezes in his tracks, having not even realized someone else was out here. Taken by surprise, his pulse races as he feels a surge of adrenaline. Just his luck, it was Stacy, and he could get in a lot of trouble for being out here by himself at this hour with no one watching him. Not to mention, he knew she had a gun, so he was pretty close to getting shot if he made a wrong move here. 

"Fire, and you'll be shooting the same guy that you're here to protect," he responds dryly, covering up the fact that he'd just been startled out of his wits. Hoping he was in the clear, he dares to complete his route, emerging onto the path, his hands out to his side... just in case. 

Seeing Dylan, Eric lets out the breath he'd been holding. "Dylan, why... what in the blazes are you doing out here at this hour?" 

Dylan slowly lowers his hands and rolls his eyes. "Going for a stroll." 

"Come on now - you know it ain't safe out here." 

"I know, I know!" Dylan had already gotten the same speech from Sparky. "I was at Sparky and Faith's and we got to playing a game and lost track of time. I was just taking a shortcut back from their place is all." 

Eric smirks, setting his hands on his hips. He gives Stacy a sidelong glance. "Does this mean he gets away with a warning, or do you still shoot him for being stupid?" 

Dylan's eyes narrow, more embarrassed than upset.

Rick holds his smile and gives Misty's shoulder a squeeze. "You're welcome. I'm honored to be the first to know, and I won't tell a soul 'til you're ready." He could tell by the look in her eye that she was pleased and excited, which made him so happy for her. But he also knew that Carson didn't want kids - he'd talked about it enough that it was common knowledge. With his background, and both of their connections to the Agency and the danger of the Elite, Carson had no trouble telling people that he didn't want to risk having a family. Because of that, Rick knew now that no matter how thrilled Misty was, it had to be hard for her thinking about telling Carson. 

"You need anything, just let me know."

Jason returns to his office from taking out the trash, and sinks down in his chair with a sigh. His buzzing cell phone on his desk makes him jump and he realizes he'd missed a call and there was a voice mail waiting for him. Seeing the number, he hesitates. But it had been several days and... he needed to listen to it. 

Jase, it's Sandy. I know you've gotten my texts. 

He had. She'd apologized and asked to talk to him and he'd put off responding. He probably should have at least acknowledged her texts, but he hadn't yet known what to even say to her.

I just really want you to know that I'm so sorry for kissing you at the concert. I don't know what I was thinking. I... I do like you but I know you don't feel that way about me, and it was just pure impulse and I'm just... I'm sorry. I never wanted to cause trouble with your girlfriend and I really didn't want to ruin our friendship. I've really enjoyed your company lately and... I guess I just hope I didn't mess up too bad. Call me? Or text me? Please? Can we talk? 

Jason leans back in his chair, replaying her words in his mind. He was sure her feelings for him didn't run very deeply, and he was pretty sure that if he were to talk to her, she'd tell him she would never kiss him again and still want to be just friends. Which is what he wanted - he didn't have any feelings for her at all - not like that anyway. He was flattered that she'd kissed him, but that was as far as it went. And now... he knew that it was only right that he at least talk to her. She might have done something stupid, but that didn't give him the right to give her a cold shoulder. The pain from Katie was slowly turning numb... numb enough that he could probably talk to Sandy about it now. He wouldn't blame her for the breakup - she might have pushed everything over the edge, but it was Katie who walked away without giving him a chance. He wouldn't let Sandy feel guilty about that. 

Looking back down at his phone, he sighs again. Opting to text instead of call, he sends her a message.

Got your voicemail. Sorry Ive ignored u. Long story.

Yeah lets talk. 

He pauses, thinking for a moment, and realizing that he no longer had a reason not to see Sandy alone. He had no one to be jealous or upset with him for seeing her anymore. 

How about lunch tomorrow? 

Sandwich Basket?

That would have to do. He was pretty confident he'd work things out with Sandy and he'd still be able to hang out with her and the guys. That much was good, and he was glad. But that didn't mean he still didn't have a gaping hole in his heart right now.

"...I've been living on my own again for this past week and so far it's been okay." Scott sits in Reese's office, fidgeting a little as he speaks. "Still have some troubles but... but overall it's going well and Justin's still keeping track of me." He nods, feeling the hope that he truly was overcoming obstacles. "That said, I um... well I was wondering if... I mean I'm not sure you need a second tech guy anymore but..."

Reese smiles and leans back in his chair, shaking his head. "Scott..."

Scott glances up expectantly. "Yes?"

"You may not realize it, but you never really lost your place here."

"I... I didn't?"

"No. And even if I would have tried, Dalton would have killed me." Reese chuckles. "But I never did try because I didn't want to. I always hoped you would be back."

"Wow... really?"

"Well sure." Reese's smile remains. "You have no idea how much we like having you around here, let alone need you. Dalton's a great guy, but even he only has two hands. He's got work coming out his ears."

Scott grins a little. "Why didn't you ever hire anybody else?"

"Because... the chair in that office only belongs to one person."

Scott glances down, feeling very good and very humble. "I... I'm not sure what to say."

"Say whatever you like. Do you want your job back?"

"Maybe..." Scott swallows hard. "I have to be honest... I don't know yet how much I can handle. Maybe I could just come in a couple days a week? I hope I can do well and handle it, but I can't make any promises."

Reese nods. "I understand and that's perfectly acceptable. How about you think about it a little more and decide exactly what you want and how you'd like to try this out. Let me know and we'll go from there."

...A few minutes later, Scott finds himself knocking on Dalton's door and sticking his head in the office. "Hey, Hulk..." He manages a smile. "Can I interrupt?"

Pearcing eyes

Even though listing to Eric Stacy's ears still pick up on the sound that was coming from the bushes. It was footsteps, not coming fast, but taking there time not to make to much noise. About to draw her gun Stacy stops as Eric steps in front of her. Raising an eyebrow she found humor in the face that Eric had stepped in front of her but at the same time she was honored that he would put himself in front of her to protect her.

   "I am, but it was still nice knowing you wanted to protect me. Thank you."

Stacy whispers as she draws her gun. Holding it to her side she wouldn't point it at anything she couldn't see. For all she new it could be a guest or even a ranch hand though everyone should be in bed by now. She was quick so if it was danger she could draw fast enough to stop them.

   "Who's there? You better show yourself. This is privet property and you are trespassing. Show yourself and you can go with a warning."

Getting Hunter's text Katie laughs and shakes her head. Him never get into trouble yeah right. Some how she didn't believe than and it worried her leaving him behind but he was grown and new how to take care of himself. There was nothing more she could do.

And once again the hands of time spined and before anyone new it a few days had past.

Sitting along in the dinning hall Katie just looks out the window a warm cup of coffee in her hands. It was a dreary day out and it seemed to match Katie's mood. No one was awake yet that she new of but sleep just didn't want to find her again after she had woken. It felt strange being back here again after so long but this would always be her home. She was happy Rosetta and Mick had welcomed her back and seeing how big BJ had gotten she was glad. The only thing she'd miss was her dad. She had heard he was out of town right and she honestly couldn't wait till he was back. If there was one thing she new for sure....one emotion she new it was how much she missed her father.

Feeling something brush her leg Katie looks down at a big white fluffy puff ball. Last time she had checked there were no new cats at the ranch other than the barn cats but this one she had never seen before let alone seen inside.

   "Hey there...where did you come from huh?"

Picking up the soft cat Katie sets it in her lap and hears an instant purr. It brings a smile to her face as she continues to pet her. Her fur was so soft, and her had piercing blue eyes. Katie still couldn't help but wonder where she came from. But once everyone awoke she would ask. This kitty was far to cute to turn away and for a moment...Kate's dull mood and depression was forgotten in the soft touch of the cats fur.

Hearing Rick's voice Misty gives a smile looking up at him. Before he even said anything the look on his face gave it away that she was in fact going to have a child. Her smile grows as her excitement bubbles over. She'd never told anyone but she had always wanted to be a mother...at least to one child. but at the same there was a bit of worry too. Carson never wanted any kids so how would he accept this news? 

Misty new she had to tell him. It was his right to know and sooner or later she was going to start to show even more and more and he would know something was up. She had to tell him, but she wanted to wait for a good time.

   "Thank you Rick for doing this for me."

Trash

"Hey Reese?" Jason held down the button on his phone. 

"Yes?" 

"Um... I was just wondering if Katie was on any cases or anything?" It had been several days and Jason had not seen or heard anything from Katie at all. No calls, no texts, not even seeing her car, let alone her face. And although he'd resigned himself to not trying to talk to her, it still hurt. Not seeing her at work though was strange, and he just wanted to know what was going on for no other reason than to be aware. 

"No, she's not." Reese pauses. "She's on a leave of absence." 

Jason was a bit surprised. "What? For how long?" 

"I'm not sure. She's at the ranch in Texas if we need to get a hold of her for a case, but I'm not planning on using her until she returns." 

 "Oh." Why did it hurt that he didn't know? It shouldn't. She wasn't obligated to tell him anything anymore. All ties were broken. She'd gone her way, he'd gone his, and that was that. He shouldn't care where she was. Although it was a tad annoying knowing that his own haven was in Texas too, and if he didn't want to see her, he couldn't go. 

"Anything else?" 

Jason jumps. "No... no, that's all thanks." He shuts off the intercom and sighs, looking down in his hand again. "Friendship is what binds us."  He runs his fingers over the faded lettering. It seemed like ages ago that Katie had given him this leather wallet. He'd used it so much that he could barely read it anymore. He'd bought a new wallet a while back to preserve what he could of this special one, not wanting to wear it out entirely. Instead, he had kept it in his desk, along with a few other keepsakes. The words had meant a lot to him - while he and Katie had been just friends or dating - it had always applied.

Now though... now those words meant nothing. They felt fake. They felt like a temporary phrase to be used until one of them decided to betray the other. And all they did was stir up bitterness.

Putting the wallet back in the drawer, Jason fishes his keys out of his pocket. The leather keychain still hung between the keys. Hotshot. Another gift on the same day. Katie had tried so hard. She'd been so thoughtful. Now, the lettering was almost entirely gone. He'd kept it on his main keyring all this time, thinking of Katie every time he'd seen it.

Now though... now he felt very far from being a Hotshot, let alone being called that by Katie. Her turning her back on him was as good as a slap in the face. He wasn't anybody's hotshot now. Maybe it was just as well. Maybe it was better if they weren't together. Without their connection, they had nothing anyway.

Removing the keychain from his other keys for the first time, he tosses it into the drawer too. Pulling his everyday wallet from his pocket, he flips through the few little pictures he had. One was of his mom, Wes and Kaylee. That one stayed. One was of Jetstream. That one stayed too. Then there were several of Katie or him and Katie together. Jason fingers them for several moments, running his thumb over the smiling faces. These were good memories.

Now though... now those good memories just brought pain. The photos were of what was and never could be again. And as such, they were only torture. The Katie in those photos was not the Katie he knew today. That Katie would have given him a chance. She would have respected him. She would have never just sat idly by while he was humiliated. But obviously, the old Katie was gone.

Pulling them out of his wallet, they join the wastebasket. And just so he didn't change his mind, he stands and picks up the half-full bag of trash. Tying it shut, he heads into the hallway and makes his way to one of the main trash bins to throw it away.

Rick approaches Misty quietly in the infirmary. He hadn't seen her yet today, but he was keeping his promise now after their brief discussion yesterday evening. And as requested, he'd spoken to no one else about it. Coming up behind her, he sets a hand on her shoulder. "Good morning," he greets warmly. 

Smiling down at her, he gives her a little nod. "I got the test results..." His eyes twinkle. "Congratulations, Misty. You're gonna have a baby."

Hunter flips open his phone and reads Katie's first message. He was glad she was going to get the time off she wanted. A little sad to see her go for who knows how long, but it was what she'd wanted. 

About to pocket his phone again, the second text comes and he gives the screen a wry grin. Pulling his glove off with his teeth, he types in a response. 

Dont worry about me. I never get in trouble.

Putting his phone away and pulling his glove back on, he flips the visor on his helmet shut and leans over his motorcycle, revving the engine. Looking over to the right where one of his rowdy buddies was on his own bike, he nods. Both bikes take off, squealing and burning rubber as their riders race towards the other end of town - shooting through main street traffic.

Eric grins, feeling a little less embarrassed as long as Stacy had understood what he really meant. The topic of dating though was still unsettled and he couldn't quite tell what he was supposed to do with it. He thought it sounded like Stacy would like to try dating, but was he reading her correctly? 

"Well, I... I mean, I think it would be..." His voice trails off as he comes to an abrupt halt in their walk. His eyes pierce the darkness as rustling sounds, like footsteps, could be heard in the underbrush of the trees around the back perimeter.

Without even thinking, Eric instinctively places himself in front of Stacy before he realizes it. Frowning, he looks over his shoulder at her. "What am I doing?" he whispers hoarsely. "You're the security guard." Stepping aside again, he nods to the bushes. "You hear that?"

One Night

Misty gives a nod. She didn't care when Rick did it just as long as he agreed to it. She was thankful for that. Rick was not only her coworker but her friend too and she was thankful to have him helping her and new he understood.

   "That sounds good Rick, thank you."

Giving a nod to Reese Katie was thinkful he said she could go. Part of her though he would say no, and if he had she would of accepted it but it would of made things a lot harder and maybe never gave her a chance to find herself again.

   "Thank you Reese. I know this is the busy time and I am sorry. If you sent some work over to me while I was at the ranch though I would be more than willing to do some there. I wont be longer than what personal time I have."

Katie new she had at least a month saved up and carried over from last year. Would a month be enough time she didn't know but she would try her best to make it be. She didn't want to lose her position here in the Elite. It was her life, and something she enjoyed doing way to much to jeopardize that.

   "You've...always been like a father to me and...I just want to say thank you again."

Standing Katie wasn't sure what else to say. Leaving the office her head to her cubicle and looks around it for a moment. She would miss it but this was something she had to do. She didn't want to be stuck anymore, she wanted to find herself again. 

Taking only a few things from her work space she might need Katie heads out to her car and gets in. Pulling out her phone she opens a message to Hunter. She promised she would let him know what was going on.

Boss gave me the clearance to leave. 

I am going to pack tonight, leave money for my roommates while I am gone,

and probley leave sometime tomorrow.

Katie hits the send button and as she does a funny thought crosses her mind. Giving a chuckle she opens another empty text.

Don't get into any trouble while I am gone.

I wont be around to bail you out.

As Eric stumbles over his words again Stacy can't help but laugh at him once again. She did it many time herself so she new how it felt but still...she found it slightly humorous. Still holding his hand Stacy just shakes her head.

   "I new what you ment and yes I guess this could be a date. A walk under the starts, night time, someone handsome by my side. However...I still have to pay attachen to my work too."

Walking forward and thanking for a moment Stacy scanned the area before looking back to Eric and smiling. Really this whole thing had come out of no where. She hadn't planned this or expected it at all. But now that it had happened...she was glad. A new feeling entered her heart and though on one hand it was frighting, the other it felt good too.

   "Maybe...one day we can try a real date. I mean...if thats what you want...or we could not...its up to you."