Thankful

Giving a tap on the hospital room Grace enters today waring a pretty Red and white sundress with sandles. It was another hot day and to wear anything but would be sad. This way she was cool and comfortable.

   "Good Morning I hope your awake."

Smiling as she walked over to the bed to male nurses were behind her with a wheel chair as well. Today was a good day and Grace hoped Jared was in a slightly better mood. She didn't like seeing down and yesterday had been a pretty bad day.

   "Ready or not here we come anyways, and outside we shall go...as long as your still feeling up to it."

Rosetta gives a nod to both her bothers and does the best smile she can. She new this was going to be rough but she was thankful for both there support, it helped make it just a little easier.

   "Alright guys be safe and if anything changes I'll give a call."

Watching her brothers leave and giving a little wave Rosetta lets out a small sigh before she gives a little knock and enters the room. Wondering over to the bed and seeing Jeff she give a little smile before patting his hand. It was hard seeing him laying there, in the bed, slow monitored beeping. Rosetta hoped they wouldn't be here anytime again soon but now here they were.

   "Hey Jeff. Good to see you alive, you gave us quite the scare."

It was hard to find words to say or not know what to say when she didn't know how Jeff was going to react. She just wanted her brother to know she was here and she cared. They all did and thats what this all broke down too. No one wanted to see anyone hurt.

Getting into the car Katie just looks out the window as Hunter starts driving home. The scenes pass by quickly as everything all blurs together. Letting out a small sigh Katie looks up at Hunter's comment and the sharp turn of the car. Seeing him pull into the fast food lot she quirks her eyebrow a little. 

Katie didn't feel very hungry but now that the stuff was ordered she couldn't refuse it. Taking her cold treat Katie takes a sip and it quiet for a moment before looking to Hunter. She was thankful for his gesture.

   "Thanks."

Falling quiet again Katie looks back out the window. Hearing Hunters comment about watching his figure though she can't help but give a small laugh and smile looking at him. It felt good to laugh even if it was a small one and it felt even better knowing he was trying to make her feel better.

   "Oh I guess I will have a few since your watching your figure and all. But I don't think you have much to worry about your still smoking hot."

Reaching into the bag and taking out a french fry Katie takes a nibble form it. As she does her stomach lets out a loud growl that lets her know just how hungry it was. Sinking down a little Katie pops the rest of the fry in her mouth before taking another drink.

Figure

As Rosetta tells Katie about the bunkhouse, Hunter is glad - he had forgotten that he didn't even know yet where he was staying on the ranch. In a way, he was impressed - even here with all this going on, Rosetta hadn't forgotten about him. 

He gives her a little nod. "Thanks, Rosetta. And if Katie needs to come back, I can bring her again, no problem." He knew the protective aunt wouldn't want Katie driving in the middle of the night, and he'd have no problem coming back here again if it would help. 

After saying goodbye to the three siblings, Hunter walks with Katie back down and outside, returning to her car. It was late in the evening by now, and the sun had already set. Sliding back behind the wheel, Hunter gives Katie a sidelong glance, but he doesn't ask how she is. He knew she probably couldn't answer that anyway. He just... felt so badly for her, and helpless, wishing there was something he could do.

Driving down the lit streets, Hunter thinks he remembers how to get back to the main road to the ranch again. Though paying attention to traffic, his eyes do wander just a little. Getting to a stop light preparing to go straight, he spots a familiar sight.

"Oh, hey, look." When the light turns green, he veers into the turning lane to make a sharp unplanned turn. "We can't pass that up." Steering into the drive-through of a latenight fast food restaurant, he stops the car at the large menu to talk into the microphone.

"Hey, I need a couple mocha shakes, please. Oh, and.... a large order of fries."

It's only minutes before they're back on the road again, this time with a cold treat and the mouth-watering aroma of fresh french fries. Keeping one hand on the wheel, Hunter sips his shake through a straw and nods his approval. "Not bad." Setting the cup down in a holder, he snitches a french fry, giving his hungry stomach something to work on. "Don't make me eat all these alone," he warns. "I'm watching my figure." 

"...yeah, he's not too happy about being here." Eric rolls his eyes and thumbs Rosetta towards the room. He and Trent had taken their turns, and Katie had been right. They knew part of it was Jeff just being tired, but he was quite definitely grouchy as well. 

Trent smirks a little. "When you go in there, watch it. He's not happy you're staying." 

Eric sighs and pats Rosetta's shoulder. "We'll head home then somebody will be here again in the morning so you won't be stranded here." 

Jared manages a grin. "Grass, huh? Sounds fun to me, if you really have time." 

He tried his best not to be grouchy the rest of the session, but once Grace was gone for the day, he just felt all the more depressed. He hadn't heard from Justin in days. He'd seen too much of the nurses here. He could tell his mother was growing weary of making trips here even though she'd never complain. And he was beginning to wonder if all this work on his legs really was worth it. 

Regardless, by the time morning rolls around, he's looking forward to Grace's company again and getting outside. 

Bunk Ten

Looking up after walking out Katie shakes her head a little at her Uncle's question. If she said he was ok was that the truth? He wasn't bad though, he was alive at at this point that was important it just seemed like a hard question to answer.

   "He's....alive so thats good. But still thick headed and not wanting to stay here as ever.  But I...told him it wasn't an option so...he's a little mad at me."

Katie walks over to Hunter and gives another nod. She again was thankful he was here even if she didn't say it. She was friend, stressed from everything that had been going on. From things back in Nevada, to here in Texas, life just didn't seem easy anymore.

   "I guess we are going to head home. I'll be back in the morning though. ok?"

Looking at her niece Rosetta gives a small nod. This was no place for Katie to stay even if she was worried. She'd come to the ranch to work on her own issues and releave a little stress. Staying here would not do that for her. 

   "Ok Katie, if anything else happens before tomorrow I'll call. Try and have a good night."

Turning back to the other Rosetta stops remembering something and turns back to Katie and Hunter. With everything going on she had completely forgot to let them know what bunk he could stay in.

   "Oh Katie, bunk ten is cleaned and ready for Hunter. The key is laying on my desk in the office."

Grace gives a nod to Jared. She could pretty much work with everything and small spaces were not a problem. If worse came to worst they could always go outside and work with that space. Grace new if there was a will there was a way and she was not ready to give up. 

Hearing him ask about  her coming again when she didn't have to work on him Grace gives a smile. At least he liked when she came that was better than nothing at this point. Even just a friendship was good therapy for him to keep his spirits up.

   "Well, I have off tomorrow...Maybe I could bring some more food for you to try out but if it is a nice day we can do it outside. Sitting in the grass will help yours legs believe it or not. The prickles from the blades of grass will help blood flow."


  

Chance

If Jeff could have one thing right now it was to not have people worry about him. He hated that. Nobody needed to worry. He didn't want to be the cause of stress. But he also knew there was no point in even trying to argue with anybody about that. Hearing Rosetta was going to spend the night, he wasn't so sure he liked that idea, but he says nothing. Better to not argue and get Katie any more upset. 

Returning the squeeze to her hand, he gives her a little nod. "I love you too, Katie, with all my heart." Managing a little smile he lets her go. "See you tomorrow." 

Out in the hall, the others wait their turns. Seeing Katie come out, Eric and Trent almost run into each other as their pacing circles collide. "How is he?" Eric asks. 

Over to the side, Hunter rises slowly from where he'd been sitting. Katie looked... tired. He was glad Rosetta had told her to go home - it looked like she could use the rest, and he was more than happy to drive her back home again. He'd be okay if she decided to stay, but for her sake, he was glad she'd be going home. Watching her uncles and aunt, he stays at a short distance, not wanting to get in the way. 

"Okay. Well, I don't have a clue what Mom's living room is like, but I'm sure she'll do all she can to do whatever it takes." She seemed to be that kind of woman, Jared had discovered. So caring, she'd bend over backward for anyone.  

Watching Grace go about her work on his legs, for the first time, Jared feels a little down about the whole thing. He'd known it would be a long hard process, but now weeks into it and seeing such small results, it was rather depressing. 

Resting his head back in his pillow, he sighs. "Any chance in you coming by again sometime when you don't need to work on me?" He'd really liked it the day she'd showed up to take him outside. He knew she had a busy schedule though and she had other people she worked with. He was nothing special. But the last few days he'd felt extra lonely. 

Realizing he maybe shouldn't have asked though, a little color comes to his cheeks and he glances down. "Maybe if you do, I can apologize for being a grump," he mumbles.

Love you

   "Don't worry dad I will worry about you because thats what I am meant to do."

Letting out a small sigh Katie couldn't tell if Jeff was trying to shoo her out of not. Maybe he didn't like what she had to say but at this point she didn't much care. If he thought she was being hurt fun and didn't care at all than he new her less than she though. Though the idea of being at odds with her dad hurt.

   "I didn't want to go yet, but I guess it would be best if I did. There are some other people that want to see you and Rosetta is going to spend the night."

Leaning in Katie gives Jeff a kiss on the cheek before pulling away a little and squeezing his fingers. She really did hate leaving him but maybe she was only making him more upset so it was for the best.

   "Love you Dad."

Having Jared yelp again and seeing his look Grace gives a small sigh. It really was good he was feeling the pain but the dagger looks he was giving her kind of was making her feel like a monster or something. 

Letting his leg down she take the heating pad and ice placing one on one leg and the other for the other one. She would let them cool and warm for not than work a little again once the muscles relaxed. Hopefully they would being to start working on rotations leg exercises.

   "Well as long as you have a decent size living room and you mom doesn't mind I move things around a little as long as I put them back I can pretty much work with anything. I have items I use when I go out of the office so its not like its putting me out of my way or anything."

Grouchy

Hearing he was going to be here for a couple days, Jeff bristles. He was too tired to argue, but he wasn't happy. Not that he'd really expected anything else. 

The rest of Katie's little speech hurt just a bit. She seemed to be rather perturbed at him for all this. As if he'd planned to have a heart attack. All he'd wanted was to put in a good day's work. It wasn't like he'd done this on purpose. His grip on her hand loosens a little. 

Left with no time to argue, he simply nods at her mention of food. He knew what hospital food was like and anything else he was sure to be grateful for. Although at the moment, the thought of food just made him feel nauseous. He wouldn't tell her that though. If she wanted to bring him something tomorrow, he wouldn't stop her. 

"Well... you have a good night then." His eyes droop a little again, but it was more of her chiding that made him figure she'd want to leave, not that she'd implied she'd go home and come back tomorrow. "Guess I'll see ya tomorrow then." He pats her hand. "And don't spend your time worrying about me." 

Jared perks up a little at Grace's explanation of how they might do things. "Really? I was afraid I might get stuck with somebody else." 

Giving a yelp as she hits a nerve, he wishes he could move his leg - he'd yank it out of her reach if he could. He didn't know why he felt grouchy today. He'd been fighting it ever since his mother's morning visit. She hadn't brought bad news. He'd learned a little more about himself. So what was his problem? He knew it was probably just the fact that even though he'd learned more, it had sparked no memories. The only memory he had thus far was the accident, and he'd really like something else to think about. 

Fighting the urge to complain at Grace again, he grits his teeth and just throws her another look before trying to move on. "So are there requirements for being able to have you come to a home? I mean like space or something?"

Tomorrow

Looking down at her dad Katie and give a little scoff. She new he would ask about leaving but at this point even if someone said they would pay to get Jeff out of here she would decline. He needed to be here and watched over. He had to get better.

   "No they aren't and its a good thing too. You need to stay here to recover for a few days and make sure everything is alright. Don't even think about telling me everything is fine either because you just had a heart attack because you over worked yourself. So no, things are not fine."

Taking in a deep breath Katie hadn't meant for that all to come out it just...had. She just wanted to beat Jeff to the punch of arguing before it even started. It was set in stone he was staying here for a few days and that was that. Even if they had to sedate him again to get him to calm down and relax.

   "Tomorrow maybe I'll slip you some good food though. I wouldn't wish the food here on my worst enemy."

Continuing to work on Jared's legs Grace listens to everything he had to say. When she had come in this morning she new something was different about him. He wasn't in the best of moods and she guessed it was from finding out more memories, or the lack of memories. She kept a smile on her face though setting up a mental note in her mind that Jared was going through a lot so any attitude he might show her was just part of it all.

   "Digging deep is good so...if your feeling pain yes we are, and yes we will continue."

Grace continues to smile as she lets Jared's one leg relax while she started on the other. She would go back and forth a few more times but between them let them relax a little too so as to not over due it. Pain was good, but to much at once was not.

   "Insurance is good, and I can always come to you for the PT. I have a bunch of people outside the hospital I have seen and gone to there house. Doesn't bother me any as long as if doesn't bother them."

Horrible

Struggling to stay alert, Jeff sees Katie approach and feels her hand in his. Forcing his eyes to stay open, he looks over at her, giving her a small smile. "Hey, Kiddo." His voice was quiet... weak. His hand gives hers a squeeze in return. "Yeah... the doc told me I was pretty lucky." 

His eyes fall shut for a moment before he opens them again. It felt as though he'd awoken from a deep sleep and was still stuck halfway in a dream. He remembered collapsing at the ranch then waking up in an ambulance where he'd given the medics a hard enough time that they'd sedated him. Then the last thing he knew was waking up here and being told he'd had a heart attack. 

"Guess you're still stuck with me," he muses. "This bed is horrible though..." He pauses to take a deep breath, still fighting the fog. "They gonna let me go sleep in my own one or what?"

"So apparently I was in marketing. I traveled a lot, tried to sell stocks in the business and get other businesses to sign on with the company I worked for." Jared sits in his hospital bed and sighs as Grace works on his legs. "I guess my mom's been in contact with them and explained what happened. Sounds like I had insurance, which should cover everything, but my job position had to be filled immediately. So I'm out of that job - not that I wanted it anyway. I don't have a clue about anything anymore anyway."

He winces as pain shoots down the back of his leg. "Yipes... digging a little deep there today, are we?" He quirks an annoyed eyebrow, but he didn't mean to snap at Grace - he knew it was good he was feeling pain - he was actually able to move all his toes now and just barely his ankles now too. 

"At any rate... I guess I'm gonna be released in a couple days. Mom said she'd take care of me but we're gonna have to figure out this whole therapy thing since I can't drive myself anywhere."

Not Strong

Taking everything in Katie can feel her own knees get weak and leans into Hunter a little more knowing he would keep her standing, she again was thankful he was there. Most of the stuff the Dr said didn't come as a shock but still hearing it from someone else mouth hit hard. 

   "I will probley be staying with him the night. Since I am family I know that I can do that. I wouldn't feel right leaving him here alone, someone should be with him."

Katie pipes up to the Dr. She new there shouldn't be much of a problem if one of the family members did want to stay with Jeff as long as it was just one and not a while room full. Her dad wasn't going to be happy he was here, and if it was her she wouldn't want to be here alone.

Looking over to her niece and giving her shoulder a little friendly squeeze her heart went out to her. She understood all to well why she wanted to stay and how much it hurt Katie to hear all this stuff about her dad. This was no place for her to stay though with her own condition trying to recover.

   "You go see him and talk with him for a little while. Than let Hunter take you home so you can help him settle in a little more. I'll stay with Jeff the night and than tomorrow you can come back and see him ok? I promise if his condition changed I will call."

Glancing back at her Aunt Katie wanted to argue that she should be the one to stay but if she did that what would happen with Hunter? He didn't even know where he was staying the night yet. Katie new if she did say he would understand but and this was more important but maybe Rosetta was right.

   "Alright...that sounds ok."

....A few moments later Katie was walking down the hall to her dads room. She said she would go first and see Jeff as to not try and over whelm him right now. Everyone was just worried about not stressing him out anymore that need be at the moment. He was going to do enough of that on his own when he found out he had to stay a few days.

Entering the room Katie slowly walks to the bed. Seeing her dad hooked up to all the different things and the low beeping from one monitor or another. It made her sad to see everything and it made her own heart hurt very much. She always thought of her dad as strong but seeing him in this position now because he put himself there...Katie wasn't so sure anymore.

Reaching out and taking Jeff's hand in her own Katie holds it giving it a little squeeze. She did her best to hold her tears for now at bay. She new it would upset her dad more to see her like this so now she tried to be the strong one and keep her feelings to herself. 

   "Hey Dad, you're gonna be ok."

Heart Attack

Joining Rosetta in the waiting room, Eric and Trent take up two chairs, although they wind up also taking turns pacing, unable to sit still the whole time. Both felt they should say something to someone, but at the same time, what could be said? No one knew what was happening. No one know how bad this was. Waiting was always the worst. 

Hunter lets Katie lean into him, not minding at all. He didn't like seeing her like this. It all felt so unfair. She was going through so much already - to have her dad in the hospital like this was just one more blow. 

Looking down into her eyes, he smiles and gives her an extra squeeze, is hand rubbing her shoulder as he keeps his arm around her. "Hey, you don't need to thank me. I wouldn't want to be deserted back at the ranch anyway." He winks. "Can't say that I like hospitals but... I'm glad I could be here for ya." 

It would be what felt like an eternity of waiting, pacing, coffee, sitting and more pacing before finally, finally a doctor joins them. He introduces himself as Dr. Mettler and after discovering that three were siblings and one was a daughter, he knew to whom he needed to speak. Looking to Katie first, he purses his lips. "Your father is quite a lucky man. He did suffer a heart attack but it was mild and didn't cause an awful lot of damage. However, he was already weak and this ordeal has certainly done him no good." 

He folds his arms and sighs, addressing everyone now. "I received medical information from the physician at your ranch, and it indicates he's had a heart condition, along with other problems for quite a while. As such, I was surprised to learn the physical strain he'd been under the last couple weeks." 

Eric rolls his eyes. "It's not like we didn't try to stop him. Stubborn brute." 

"Ah. I see. He didn't want to slow down?" 

"You kidding?" 

Dr. Mettler nods, now understanding. "Well, I would advise that if he won't listen to his family, he needs to be put on medication that will force him to slow down." 

Trent exchanges a glance with Rosetta, not liking the sound of that.

Dr. Mettler continues. "While thankfully this heart attack didn't cause much damage, every little bit is bad, especially with a heart like his. It's been weak for quite a while and like any weak muscle, any trauma is cause for concern." Pausing, he takes as breath. "Jeff pushed himself to the point of severe fatigue, so it's not just his heart that's been affected. He also suffered a heat stroke and basically sheer exhaustion, to put it plainly." 

Eric sighs, remembering how they'd all tried to get Jeff to quit working so hard. "Is he going to be okay?"

"I believe he is, yes. I want to keep him here for a couple days though to be sure we didn't miss anything. We need to monitor him and make sure there's not risk for another attack." 

"Will it take him long to recover?" 

"He's probably going to feel very weak and tired for several weeks, but that's normal. The most important thing is keeping him quiet. Apparently that might be difficult, but it's imperative that he rests. When I release him, I'll have a list of things he shouldn't do, such as not lifting anything over five pounds for the next six weeks - that kind of thing."

Trent rolls his eyes. "Oh he's gonna love that," he mutters under his breath. 

Eric shoots him a withering look before turning back to the doctor. "May we see him?" 

"You may. He's on the third floor, room sixty-two and may or may not be awake. Please though... keep your first few visits brief and by all means, remain quiet and try not to upset him." Dr. Mettler gestures out into the hall. "If you have any questions, the nurse's station is right there. I must see to another patient now." 

Once the doctor was gone, Eric turns to the others, particularly looking at Rosetta and Katie. "We all wanna go see him or you wanna take turns?"

Waiting

Turning to see her brother Rosetta was slightly surprised not that Trent wanted to go but that he piped up and it with a strong will that he was going and driving. That was one thing Rosetta was thankful about with her family that no matter what they were always close by and always stuck together.

   "Alright Trent you drive. I'm to shook up to even attempt to drive right now."

Walking behind Trent and making sure Eric was close to Rosetta heads to the car and gets in. Once there were off the ride was very quiet. Rosetta didn't have much to say as she just continued to say silent prayers for her brother.  She new it was in God's hands but she just didn't want Jeff gone to soon.

Getting to the hospital and inside Rosetta started to become slightly agitated as they tried to get information on Jeff but were left with nothing. She'd rather know something than nothing at all at this point. Anything to go by, cling onto and give them hope.

Letting out a frustrated sigh Rosetta enters the waiting room. There was no point in pushing for info if they were going to just continue shooting her down. Looking at Katie Rosetta shakes her head a little bit before sitting down. She felt bad for her neice but would give her the space she probley needed. Right now she had her friend and that gave Rosetta the comfort that she would be ok.

Sitting in the waiting room Katie puts her head in her hands as a few tears roll out of her eyes. The day had started out so good and now...now it was just messed up again. Why hadn't Jeff taken it easy like she wanted him too. If only he had listened maybe this wouldn't of happened.

Feeling Hunter's arm around her Katie leans into him and just leans her head on his chest trying to soak up the comfort while she could. It was nice to have someone there with her that she could find comfort in.

   "Yeah, he's a fighter. Thick headed like the rest of us Pent's too."

Katie finally looks up at Hunter and study's hid eyes for a long moment. It had been nice he had come with her and after only just getting there too. He didn't hesitate at all or think twice about it. He was a really good friend and Katie was so thankful.

   "Thanks for coming with me Hunter. It means a lot." 

 

Waiting

Hunter wastes no time in following Katie to her car and sliding in behind the wheel. Seeing the light, he quirks an eyebrow, not having even thought about that. Sometimes he forgot Katie was an Elite agent. 

"Right." He nods, knowing that safety came first, but also knowing he had no problem getting up to speed to get them to the hospital in good time. 

Waiting no longer, he starts the motor and pulls down the driveway, buckling himself in as they went. Turning onto the road, he can just see the ambulance in the distance, that had gotten a head start on them. 

Gunning it, Hunter pushes Katie's car, keeping a keen eye on the speedometer. It was a far cry from his racing car, but it had a lot of zip, and after taking a few corners faster than an average driver, they'd caught up to the ambulance to remain behind it the rest of the way into town...

Mick nods to Rosetta, not once even thinking about denying her the request. He loved Jeff too, but Rosetta was his sister - it was only right that she went. "Of course. I'll call Jay and I'll make sure everybody around here knows what's going on too."

Pulling her in for a quick hug, he kisses her cheek. "Be careful. Let us know what's happening."

Eric is quick to step back up to Rosetta. "I'm going too. We can-"

"I'll drive."

Eric's gaze swings around. He hadn't even known Trent was there, and was even more startled by the firm offer. Trent rarely said anything, let alone with authority. "You sure? I can-"

"Yes." Trent nods, already having his keys pulled from his pocket. He looks to Rosetta with an almost pleading look to let him. He was probably the quietest member of the ranch but it was his brother too who was in trouble and if the other siblings were going, so was he. "We can take my truck." Without giving time for anyone to argue, he turns and heads to the garage.

Within minutes, they were on their way also, although much farther behind the ambulance than Hunter and Katie...

Once reaching the hospital, Hunter drops Katie off at the entrance then goes to park before coming inside and finding her near the ER. As typically expected, they weren't given much information about anything and could only sit around and wait.

In the nice waiting room, Hunter sits next to Katie on the small couch, more worried about her than Jeff. This was the last thing she needed. Slipping his arm around her shoulders, he gives her a little squeeze. "It's gonna be okay," he comforts softly. "From what you've told me, your dad's a fighter, eh?" 

Arriving at the hospital, Eric and Trent follow Rosetta inside, inquiring about Jeff and only knowing that he was in the ER and nobody could see him yet. Though frustrated, the brothers don't argue and simply head to the waiting room.

Glancing inside and seeing Katie and Hunter, Eric pauses in the doorway, throwing Rosetta a quick look. Should they interrupt or just let Katie be? He wasn't sure.

Speed Limit

Giving a nod Katie pulls her keys from her pocket and hands them to Hunter before turning and heading to her car. Getting in Katie reaches into the back seat and pulls out a little blue light she set on the dashboard and turns on. This was a good time as ever to use it.

   "Don't worry about lights, or the speed limit just stay close to the ambulance. I know you can do that, you a racer after all...just be safe."

Pulling out of the ranch Katie new that following the ambulance he would be able to find his way alright and it would be quite a drive. That was the only bad thing about living all the way out here it took forever to get to where one was going.

Looking to her brother Rosetta's face was filled with worry. Turning to Mick to folds her arms around herself. Right now she new both of them couldn't go even if they wanted to because someone had to stay at the ranch.

   "Mick, I am gonna go if thats ok. Can you stay, call Jay and let him know whats going on please?"

Ride

Walking with Katie, Hunter couldn't help his smile.  Conversation was lighter for a while and having someone to just be goofy with was... well, it was just nice. As they get back to the ranch yard and the ambulance comes into view though, Hunter's pulse quickens. That couldn't be good. Was it -

Too late to think. Katie was already running. Sprinting after her, he keeps a safe distance, unsure what was going on, but not wanting to abandon her either. Realizing that it was her dad that was in trouble, his heart aches a little. This wasn't good at all. She'd told him that her dad had been rather ill, but he didn't know anything more.

Angel brings his attention back up and he nods without hesitating. "Yeah... yeah, sure. No problem." Being told the directions, Hunter embeds them in his mind. They were out in the middle of nowhere here - it would be a fair drive.

Seeing Jeff placed on a stretcher and taken to the ambulance, Hunter sets a hand gently on Katie's shoulder. "Come on... give me your keys and we'll take your car, okay?"



Watching as Jeff is loaded up and the ambulance driving away, those who were gathered were tense and a bit shook up. It was unusual that anything drastic enough happened that Angel couldn't handle it. And knowing Jeff's condition on top of it... It did create a sense of fear.

Eric folds his arms, gritting his teeth. He'd heard the words "heart attack" from one of the medics but nobody had given them any more information. Easing over next to Rosetta, he looks at her with worry. "I see Katie and her friend there... who else is gonna go?"

911

Dalton gives a nod and a laugh at Reese. He new his boss already figured he was into over time since he was here more than once a night late himself. But thats not why Dalton stayed. If he got payed for it or not it didn't matter to him. He just enjoyed the work he was doing and that alone kept him sane on the days Dani wasn't around.

   "Yeah yeah yeah I am going."

Turning and heading out of Reese office Dalton goes back to his own to shut down his computer and grab his things. Tomorrow was another day and he could do more work than. As for now left overs Dani brought him, along with a hot shower was calling his name.

Coming out of the office Angel takes in a deep breath of air. She'd been in the office almost all day and now it was time to just take a break. Dinner would be soon anyways and she wanted to see how Luke was feeling and if he was up to going to the mess hall tonight or eating at there place tonight.

Walking past the bunk houses she see someone laying on the steps. Her heart starts to race as she races over to the form. Seeing Jeff her heart starts to thump even more. Bending down next to him she checks his paulse before pulling out her phone and dialing 911.

Feeling Hunter's hand trail down Katie's arm it gave her little shivers. There were good shivers though and made her smile even more. Having his fingers lock around hers Katie closes her own fingers to lock them with his. She had many things that still raged war inside her, and a cretin person she did miss but this moment, Hunter's kindness and the length he went made her feel special.

   "Alright lets get you looking even better for dinner."

Still holding Hunter's hand Katie moves forward with him continuing the light chat. A few laughs also spilled over as one of them would say something funny to cause them to go into a laughing fit. 

Coming around to the bunk houses though Katie stops seeing the flashing lights of a ambulance outside her dad's bunkhouse and many people gathered around. Katie's face goes ghost white as her hand drops from Hunters.

   "Dad....DAD...?"

Katie breaks out into a run going twords the bunk. Seeing her dad laying on the ground she is stopped by Angel who holds her back a little bit. Though trying to struggle a little Katie looks up at her her face masked with much pain.

   "What happened? Is he ok? Where are they taking him?"

Looking down at Katie Angel's heart went out to her. She hated seeing Katie worried and upset. She new how much she cared about her father and how scared she was if losing him all over again.

    "He passed out and I found him on the steps. They are taking him to the closest hospital. You can drive and meet them there."

Seeing movement behind Katie Angel gives a nod to Hunter. She'd been introduced to him earlier in the day and new it was one of Katie's friends. In this state she didn't want Katie driving herself so maybe he would.

   "Hunter, if  I give you directions would you mind driving Katie please?"

Fight

A new kind of smile creases Hunter's lips as he continues to study Katie. She was so different from anybody else he knew. So much more to her than just the surface. 

Feeling her hand on his, his thumb continues to caress her face. It was soft. Warm. It wasn't the face of a woman who had ill intentions or wanted the wrong things from him. It was the face of an innocent girl who just needed some extra understanding and someone who could care. 

"I think I'm gonna be glad I came," he responds quietly. He had no idea how long he intended to stay. A week tops was what he'd had in the back of his mind. But he had no set plans. He had no job he needed to return to. His apartment could take care of itself for a while. And if he was genuinely wanted here then... who knew what he'd end up doing? He was used to flying by the seat of his pants. 

Finally letting his hand down, it gently runs the length of her arm before finding her palm and interlocking her fingers with his own. He didn't know why he he felt so strongly about being her friend. But he did. And until she told him to go away, he had no intention of turning his back. 

"Walk me to my bunkhouse," he prompts. "Then I can clean up before supper." 

Jeff throws another pitchfork full of manure into the wheelbarrow before wiping his brow. Was it getting extremely hot in here or was it just him? Continuing to work, the air in the stall seemed hard to breathe and he found himself on the verge of wheezing. Forcing himself to finish the stall and dump the load out on the manure pile, by the time he gets back to the barn, he's drenched in sweat from head to toe. Avoiding anyone else, he wanders towards his bunkhouse, planning on just lying down for a short while before supper. It would be about an hour... that should give him enough time to catch his breath. 

When he reaches his bunk though, his world starts to spin - enough so that he catches himself on the porch railing, fearing walking up those two small steps. Bending and closing his eyes, he tries to get a hold of himself but what he felt only worsens. His chest had been tight all morning - now it was starting to hurt. 

Sinking down to one knee, he desperately tries to ward off the darkness. He would stay conscious. He had to. He couldn't let this win. He would win. He would... 

His eyes start to roll back in his head as he continues to fight. 

Reese nods to Dalton, still lost in thought though. "Yeah... yeah.... tomorrow if you have time, check a little deeper I guess. See if you can find out anything else. There's more than this. I can feel it in my bones. Carson doesn't just randomly do things. He's methodical. He plans and he does it well. There has to be more to all of this than him just researching a few Agency files." 

Standing up, he takes the printouts with him. "Thanks, Dalton. Now go home before I have to pay you overtime."

You Here

Giving a smile up at Hunter Katie was thankful for his words. They were encouraging and they did help her feel better. Though his some of his words did send a pain to her heart as well. Lonely, she was slightly lonely even though she had family around her.  She still felt distant from them. Happy to be here but...strange.

   "It dosn't help much to talk about my feelings because I have no way to describe them. It's like knowing how you feeling but not really knowing. Its more of a guess and see kind of thing."

Stopping and looking up at Hunter Katie lets out a small sigh. Maybe her eyes did tell the whole store seeing as Hunter almost hit it right one the head. 

   "All of the above."

Giving a small smile and feeling Hunter's skin against her face Katie leans her head into it a little. Taking in the soft comfort from it and the feelings it held. Strange to think with one touch she didn't have to suck the emotions from anyone. This way seemed more easy to enjoy, almost like it wasn't a quick rush but a soft intake.

   "Least I wont be to horrible lonely not that your here and...you wont have to be lonely either."

Katie brings her hand to Hunter's on her face and just holds it there while giving a soft smile to them. Maybe they could help see each other through there storm. Maybe thats why they had meant to become friends. There was a bigger picture here and Katie was sure of it even if she couldn't see it yet.

Taping the desk for a second and thinking Dalton was quiet. He didn't want to think Carson was involved in anything deeper. But than again he never though he would of left Misty either. Everything seemed so messed up that Dalton wasn't sure what to think.

   "I guess it couldn't hurt to check. Lots of things are screwy right now with him its hard to think what is in character for him and what isn't."

Eyes

Hunter gives Katie and encouraging smile and nods. "At least baby steps keep you moving." He couldn't imagine how someone couldn't feel, or how they could but not understand what they were feeling. It had to be a strange place to be, let alone doing it without someone you'd loved and been connected to. It had to be... lonely. 

"And at least your surrounded by your family, right? I mean they all seem to be a supportive bunch." 

Still walking slowly, he pauses as a mixture of thoughts run through his mind. "Does it... well, does it help to like... talk about what you're feeling to figure it out?" He wasn't even sure he was making sense or if Katie would think it made sense at all either. "I mean... if you didn't know how you felt but you had someone to help you?" 

No... he wasn't making any sense. Stopping and turning to look at her, he gives her a sheepish grin. "I don't know what I'm talking about. But maybe..." He cocks his head and looks into her eyes deeply as if searching their depths. "...if you couldn't figure out what you were feeling right now... I'd guess you were determined to beat this... sad 'cause you're without someone you loved... comforted by being here, but lonely... kinda confused... and hoping that one day you'll wake up to find it all makes sense again." 

Reaching out, he runs his thumb along her cheek. "You might not know what you're feeling... but your eyes do." 

Standing and stretching, Jason nods to Misty. "Yeah, and thanks to you too. This was fun." 

Glancing to Alec he gives a little wave. "Take it easy." 

"Yeah, sure." Alec waves him goodbye.

Jason turns back to Misty and smiles. "See you tomorrow. Don't forget we're doing lunch with the gang." 

Watching Misty walk Jason back inside to see him off, Alec remains seated, just sitting in the quiet of the backyard. He could hear city sounds but it wasn't too loud, and it felt kind of sheltered back here. This evening had been different. Fun. It had been a long time since he'd enjoyed himself, let alone with someone like Jason. Alec missed the fun times with Ryan and Eli... thinking about that created an ache inside that made him want to cry, though he didn't. Oh how he wished he could go back and change his decisions. He'd still have friends. He'd still have Ryan. 

Swallowing the last of his pop, he stands and starts gathering up the cans and paper plates leftover from supper so he can throw them away. 

Having Dalton return to his office, Reese looks up expectantly. Taking the printouts, he glances over them just briefly before shaking his head. Sighing, his eyes return to Dalton. 

"It would take a couple hours tops for him to research this stuff. He's been here night after night, spending hours here - there has to be more." 

Rubbing his face wearily, he sighs again. "But that means he had to have hidden it, just like you said. But why? Why would he cover his tracks if it was legit? Why would he hide anything if it weren't something he knew he'd get in trouble for?" He searches Dalton's face, worry in his eyes. "In your opinion... do we need to investigate further?"

So So

Enjoying the air and the light chat Katie really was happy Hunter had come. She had friends here at the ranch and people she could talk too but Hunter new a little more about how things were going on with her so in a way she just felt a little more comfortable.

Hearing his question Katie new it would come sooner or later. They had hit on many topics but had avoided that one till now. Letting out a small sigh and tucking her hands into her pocket just thinking for a moment she finally talked.

   "I'm...here. Each day its getting a little better but...I still kinda feel crappy."

Kicking a stone as they walked Katie keeps her eyes down till finally looking up at Hunter. She new a lot of things he didn't understand but he at least tried and caught what was imporant.

   "Slowly I am starting to be able to feel again and understand what each one is. Let me tell ya it's not easy to do but...baby steps,,,right?"

Misty can't help but laugh again as she takes the last sip of water. Tonight had really turned out to be a great night. It was something she needed and something she was so happy to be able to share with two other people who needed it too.

   "Holy cow...it is later than I thought. I think in the morning I am going to be a zombi."

Standing Misty gives a smile. She didn't want to tell Jason good night and she didn't want to go to bed yet herself. But she new it was that time and she had too. There would be other nights filled with fun she just had a feeling about it.

   "Well, Thank you Jason for coming over and sharing the meal and game with us. And than you Alec for cleaning up the back yard to make it possible. It means a lot guys."

Looking up from his desk Dalton study's Reese as he talks. He new they had been watching Carson and trying to figure out what was going on but not Dalton had the feeling things were getting deep. But If Reese requested something than He would take the challenge.

   "Yeah I can go and do that now before I head out and get back to you. It's not a problem."

Leaving his office and going to Misty's computer Dalton sits down and cracks his knuckles. Typing away seconds turned to minutes, soon and hour had passed and Dalton new very little than he did before. If Carson had been looking for more he sure had covered his tracks well but with as deep as Dalton had searched it would have been hard.

Standing Dalton goes to Reese office and knocks before entering holding a print out. Putting it down on his desk he gives a small sigh. It suck he had respected Carson and now all this had happened. There had to be a reason right.

   "As far as I can tell the only thing Carson had been doing was looking through Agency files. I have some print outs on what ones but if anything else was going on he hide it well."

Suspicions

Hunter enjoys his walk with Katie, soaking up all the sights and sounds, and being introduced to a few more people. He was putting faces to names and he liked it. It had been a while since he'd been out in the fresh air like this. Away from the city and all the hustle and bustle. It was rather nice.

Ambling beside Katie, he nods. "Yeah... when I first pulled up I wasn't sure what to expect. Now I see there's a whole lot more going on here than you can see from the road." 

Heading slowly up the lane back towards the ranch, he hooks his hands in his pockets and lets his eyes roam the area quietly for several minutes. "So, um.... looks like you're doing good..." He gives Katie a sidelong glance. "Looks can be deceiving though... Is being here helping you like you wanted?" 

"Yes!" Jason spins around and points at Misty. "That's exactly what it is! Okay, Alec it's your turn."

"Whoa, whoa, wait a minute..." Alec reaches to the table and picks up the card Jason had drawn. "And electrical charge? Seriously?" 

"Oh, that's the wrong card."

"It is not!" Alec smirks at him. "You just don't want to admit you're a crappy artist." 

"Ha!" Jason throws his own smirk before capping the marker. "Put your pen where your mouth is."

"Nuh-uh. I'm done." Alec shakes his head and grins. "You've seen enough of my bad artistry for one night." 

Jason rolls his eyes and comes to sink back down in his chair, throwing a smile at Misty. "I guess this troop is about done." He glances at his watch, his eyes widening. "Whoopsies... I had no idea how late it was. I better go before I get thrown out."

"...and I think he's been here quite a bit after hours." Pete shrugs as he leans on Reese's open office doorway. It was late but he'd come in for some paperwork and had found Reese still here. 

Reese sighs deeply. "You really think Carson would be involved with the Agency again?"

"I never thought he'd leave Misty. That leaves things pretty wide open."

"Yeah." Reese didn't want to admit it, but it was true. Carson had surprised him with one thing - what was to say he wasn't in something deeper than he thought. "Okay, thanks. I'll do some checking and see if there's anything to what Carson's been doing here and maybe I'll have you start keeping an eye on him from a distance."

Ten minutes later, Reese was in Dalton's office. "Don't you know it's past time to go home?" he chides. He knew the big guy liked to work late sometimes though, especially when he didn't have a date, and Reese didn't mind. "Listen... I know Carson's been coming here late at night for a while and using computers. He told me once he was just doing some research but..." He shrugs. "Well, I just want to know exactly what he's been researching. I think he's been using Misty's computer. Think you could find out what he's been up to and let me know?"

thing a ma bob

Katie gives a laugh as she stands again. Looking at Hunter she just shakes her head. At least if she ever needed a laugh he was good at that.

   "Well good because I never said you didn't have to earn your keep."

Walking outside and down off the pourch Katie takes Hunter for a more indeeth grand tour. Past the few houses on the property, where Mick and Rosetta stayed, along some trails, where tp stay away from. Katie had fun showing him around and pointing everything out. It was fun and it was exciting.

   "Most people don't realize how big the ranch is till they get here. From the road it looks big but not being able to see how far it goes back because of all the trees make for an illusion."

Misty can't help but break out into laughter with the guys. It really was to funny watching everyone else draw something as much as it was funny watching herself. None of them were the best drawers and under pressure was ever....more of a mess. This really had been a good game to play so the banter could go around and warm everyone up.

   "Box....its definitely a box..."

Looking to Alec and raising an eyebrow Misty does her best to keep a laugh hidden while she continues to watching Jason draw. She had no idea what on earth he was doing but she would keep the guessing going.

"I KNOW...its a whoza whats it thing a ma bob."

Misty gives a knowing nod like she just solved the great puzzle.

Square

Hunter ducks but still gets whacked before looking up at Katie with a silly grin. "Okay okay... but I'm still gonna earn my keep." It felt strange enough being here, he wasn't going to feel like a moocher too. 

Standing up, he stretches, stifling a yawn. He liked roadtrips, but it had been a long bike ride. "I'd say lets go for a ride but I'm not sure I'm awake enough to stay in the saddle." He laughs. "How about keeping our feet on the ground and going for a walk instead? I still want to see more around the ranch - it's bigger than I thought."

As Misty leaves her picture, Jason and Alec just laugh all the more, only serving to throw Alec into a coughing fit. Jason snickers as he stands to take his turn. "See what you did to him, Misty? Poor guy. You're gonna kill him."

"I'm okay!" Alec holds up his hand as his eyes water and he stifles another cough. 

Jason grins and reaches out to take a card from Misty. "I'll do my best not to get an easy...." His sentence trails off as he reads the card and he rolls his eyes. "Oh this ought to be good." 

Alec lifts his pop in a toast. "To the great artist."

"An artist I am not." Jason smirks but goes to the white board anyway.

As he starts to scribble, Alec cocks his head then leans over closer to Misty. "I dunno but... I think whatever it is, it's related to your wind." 

Jason throws a glance over his shoulder. "Hers was round. Mine is square."

"That's a square?"

"Well yeah, it has four sides."

"Dude, it looks like a diamond."

"It does not!" Jason uses his hand to wipe off his original picture and starts over. "Stop distracting me."

"It's good practice to do this under pressure."

Jason keeps his eyes on the board, trying not to laugh again. And "electrical charge" was not something he'd ever thought he'd have to draw. "Stop talking."

Alec snickers and takes another sip of pop. "Hey, I know! It's a spider!" 

Jason's eyes widen. "A square spider??" 

"I saw one of them once."

There's a pause of total silence before the guys burst out laughing again. 

"Misty, help me!" Jason begs. "Start guessing before I start throwing things at your friend there!"

First day

Looking at both the guys Misty raises an eyebrow before looking back to the bored. Cocking her head to one side and closing the marker she brings it to her lips for a second deep in though. Finally setting the maker down she turns and looking to both guys again throwing her arms up in the air.

   "Your exactly right...its a round numbered wind. Total genius I tell you."

Going back to the table and sitting down Misty grabs her bottle of water and takes a sip before looking to Jason and giving a smirk. Picking up the cards she holds them out to him.

   "Alright Hot Shot its your turn to draw and you better not get like...duck pond or church again."

Shaking her head and rolling her eyes again Katie would go on more with her dad but just lets it drop. She'd already see what going against him got someone and she would rather not have it end like that. Not yet anyways the day had been to good.

   "Yeah yeah see ya for Uno."

Giving a wave to her dad Katie waits till he is gone before leaning back against the chair letting out a puff of air. Come around dinner time she had no idea if she would be hungry or not since she stuffed herself now. Either was though it was well worth it and Katie would do it all over again.

Hearing Hunter's comment about getting in the way Katie gives him a light wack over the back of the head before standing grinning down at him. He new better than to say something like that.

   "That my friend was a warning. You never have been and never will be in the way."

Picking up both empty bowls and bringing them to the kitchen Katie rinses them out before putting them in the dishwasher. Joining Hunter back at the table she thinks for a moment on a few different things they could do.

   "Well I am done with my chores for the day so we can, investigate your new room to get you settled, drive into town encase you need anything, go horse back riding or we can just walk the trails. I leave it up to you since its your first day here. "

Wind

"If I'm doing okay?" Jeff scoffs before looking to Hunter. "Watch her... she likes to think people are older and more feeble than they really are. Wait a year and she'll want you in a wheelchair." 

Hunter wasn't sure where that had come from, but he chuckles. "Maybe that's the request I can say no to. I've been going too fast too long to slow down now." 

Jeff grins. "Good. One of those times you're going fast, convince Katie that sometimes slow is way too boring." 

Hunter gives him a quick salute. "I'll do my best, Sir."

Chuckling, Jeff finally turns to leave, calling over his shoulder. "I will be here later with the UNO cards if anybody dares to challenge me..." 

After watching him leave, Hunter looks to his side at Katie while grinning. "I'm not sure yet, but I think you have a pretty cool dad." He finishes off his glass of lemonade and smacks his lips. "So... what do I do with myself the rest of the afternoon? I don't wanna get in the way."

Sitting next to each other in the lawn chairs, Jason and Alec watch as Misty struggles to draw her picture. Alec twirls his half-empty pop can in his hand, stifling a snicker. Jason rocks on the back legs of his chair and grins from ear to ear. He gives Alec a sidelong glance. "You give her that card?"

"Who, me?" Alec shakes his head, kinda, half-nods, shakes again. "I wouldn't do that to her, would I?"

"Nawww...." Jason coughs to keep from laughing. "I think she's doing a fine job anyway."

"Right right... Um..." Alec squints at the white board and points his pop can at it. "It's a, um... uh... round... number... um..."

"Squishy."

"Sorta like a..."

"Yeah one of those uh..."

"Right. Kinda an abstract form of... of..." 

"Wind." 

Alec blinks and looks to Jason with lifted eyebrows. 

Jason returns his glance, just as bewildered about his own theory. "Round... numeric... wind." 

Both fall into a fit of laughter and Jason throws Misty a wink. "We'll let you pick another card if you want, but I'd say you have a work of art going there."

Fun

Katie could feel a little bit of heat come to her cheeks though she was flattered too. Hearing that Hunter couldn't resist when she asked something brought a strange feeling to her stomach. It was different, a fluttering of sort and almost a shyness for a person she had felt very comfortable around.

She would of thought it was a feel of possible growing feelings for someone but she wasn't sure. It was much different than how it had been with Jason that was a force of emotions. This was slow, easy, a flutter that maybe would grow? Katie wasn't sure but what she did know was it was new, and it felt...good.

   "I am there is SOME kind of request you guy could say now. It's just pushing to far to try and find out."

Taking gives a laugh as she takes another bite of her cheesy chili. She loved putting cheese on top and a little pallet of butter on the bottom to make it a little more creamy. If Katie could eat one thing everyday it would be this.

As Jeff stands to go outside and Katie catches him catch himself she give a little sigh. He was pushing himself again and she could see it. Katie didn't say anything though not really wanting to cause a fight again all she can do is shake her head a little bit.

   "Just take it easy out there and than we will see about cards tonight. If your doing ok I think it would be fun. Hunter need to experience the cards to really know the life of a ranch."

Misty lets out a laugh as she it up drawing on the white bored. How on earth was she to try and draw a clockwork toy. The most she got was a circle with number on it and something that looked to be a big blob. There was no way anyone was going to be able to guess this.

   "How come I am getting the hard ones and you guys get the easy ones. Is this rigged?"

Pointing her marker at Jason and Alec a smile still was spread across her face. After there meal a game of piconary was deiced to be played and now a little laughter travailed around. Misty figured they were being a little loud for being outside so late but so far no one had complained and she was having a good time so thats all that mattered.

   "I think it is. You guys know I can't draw to save my life so your giving me the hard ones!"

Prisoner

"Something mellow, huh?" Jeff muses. 

"Hey now." Hunter nudges Katie's shin under the table. "Mellow? What, you think I can't handle any real work?" 

Jeff chuckles, shaking his head. "I think she's just trying to be nice."

"Well..." Hunter smirks at her anyway before thumping her on the side of the head. "She's not supposed to be nice. She's supposed to say, 'Here, Hunter, earn your keep!'" 

Jeff just grins and finishes his small bowl of chili. "Don't worry. We'll give you plenty to do if you insist on it."

"I do. If I'm here as Katie's guest then it's the least I can do." 

"I'm sure she'll rope you into a few horseback rides though - you better not say no to those."

Hunter laughs. "You kidding? I can hardly say no to anything she asks." 

"That seems to be a common thread around here..." Jeff throws Katie a loving wink. It was true though - his daughter was respected and loved and there was rarely a person who knew her well that could say no to any request. "Well... I'd better get back out to the barn..." As Jeff stands, he catches himself on the back of his chair, feeling a little dizzy. He ignores it though, shaking it off. "Gotta finish up that last stall I started." He nods to Hunter. "Glad you came, Hunter..." He turns his sights to Katie. "And I'll see ya later. Maybe we'll have to have an UNO game tonight." 

After rescuing Melissa from the tiny spider in the bathroom and chiding Josh for making fun of her, Jay retreats to his and Jessica's bedroom. Wandering to their dresser by the window, he picks up the dusty picture frame and wipes it off with his shirt. Leaning on the dresser, he studies all the young faces staring back at him. It wasn't just two families that happened to be friends... they'd formed their own clan. The Hensons and Pents overlapped as if they were all one family, not two. And now that Mick and Rosetta were married, it connected them in even more ways. 

He runs his finger over the faces. So young. So stressed from the Agency. But so happy. He stood on the end next to Jeff... it seemed appropriate. He was always on the outskirts. Never in the middle. Never involved in the battles or daily trials of living with Agency interference. It had always been that way. Jay had involved himself from time to time, helping at certain points when needed... and he'd still run if called. But as a general rule, he avoided the clan altogether. And he'd been left in peace because of it. He had spared his family the trials and fears. He had spared them tragedy and torture. 

And yet...

Sighing, he returns the photo to its place. Not a day went by that he didn't feel guilty. He felt a coward. A traitor to his family's name. He'd had a different life than the others. A different path. Different choices. But he was still a Pent. He was still a marked man for the Agency, whether he was under their thumb or not. And he was ignoring his family. His kids and wife were safe... but at what cost? All these years, Jay was just waiting for something to happen. For the Agency to attack, despite his efforts to avoid them. So if he was living in fear anyway, what had really been solved? 

And he missed his siblings like no tomorrow. Every day it grew worse. The older he became, the more he longed to see his brothers and sister. Was he wasting time? Was he really sacrificing the right things to keep his wife and kids sheltered? Was it really the right choice? Or was there a way to have the best of both worlds? He wondered. 

"Jay?" 

Turning quickly, he's startled by Jessica's presence in the room. "Huh?" 

She smiles but looks at him with a little worry. "I've been calling you... are you okay?" 

"Oh yeah... yeah..." Walking up to her, he wraps his arms around her and kisses the top of her head. "I'm okay." 

Jessica leans into him, resting her head on his chest. "You sure? Is everything okay with Rosetta?" 

"Mm-hmm... She's worried about Jeff. I guess that spat I had with him didn't wear off and he's upset. I need to make it right with him." 

Pulling back a little, Jessica looks up at him with sympathy. "Why don't you go to the ranch?" 

"You know my reasons." 

Jessica reaches up to place her palm on his cheek lovingly. "But it's killing you not to go." 

"But it's safer." 

"What's the price of safety?" She cocks her head. "Is it not better to live life to the fullest despite the risks, than never taking a risk at all and having the life of a prisoner?"

Slave Work

Katie gives a nod to Jeff and a big smile. It seemed like her liked Hunter and that was a really important and big start for her. What her father thought really meant a lot to her and just knowing he accepted Hunter was a good thing.

   "Yeah I think we are going to stick around for some lunch than I figured we would find Rosetta and see what bunk is open for Hunter to stay in."
 

 Shaking her head slightly at Jeff but not saying anything she could see how tired and worn out he was. Again he was over doing it but saying anything would only start a fight and she didn't want that in front of Hunter. Not when he just got here.

Lunch was went along normal and Becky's chilli was always the best. Katie could eat it day after day and not get tired of it. Chatter in the mess hall was light and Katie introduced Hunter to a few more people. Everyone seemed to take to him pretty well and Katie was happy. Conversation with her dad was light hearted too.

   "So Dad maybe tomorrow you can come with Hunter and me to show him a few mellow tasks to start him out on. His Uncle had a ranch so he knows a bunch of stuff but I figured we shouldn't make him dive into the slave work right away. What do you think?"

Thrown Out

Seeing Katie approaching with a stranger, Jeff is confused for a moment before being introduced. Realizing just who this is though, recognition flashes in his eyes as he stands. "Well hi, Hunter. Nice to meet you." He offers his hand. 

Hunter accepts the handshake and nods. "Nice to meet you too. Katie's told me a lot about you."

"And vice versa." 

Hunter rolls his eyes over to Katie. "How many times have I told you not to talk about me? It only spreads bad rumors." 

Jeff chuckles and shakes his head. "Don't worry... I haven't heard anything too bad."

"Funny... Mick said the same thing a while ago." Hunter scratches his head. "At least the stories must be consistent." 

Jeff grins and winks at Katie. He knew there was more than just good things about this young man. Hunter sounded like a risk taker with a taste for alcohol. But from what Katie had said, he was also a very caring man who had looked out for her. "So you're staying a while then?"

Hunter shrugs. "I think so. Depends on when you all think I ought to be thrown out."

"Oh, it takes an awful lot for anybody to be kicked off this ranch." Jeff thinks for a moment. "I've come close, come to think of it. But don't worry. I'll vouch for you." 

Hunter laughs. "That's good enough for me."

Jeff eases back down in his chair before his knees buckled, covering up the fact that he was dead tired. Looking up at Katie, he forces another smile. "You sticking around for lunch?" 

"Okay good." Jason was glad Misty had accepted the invitation. Not only because he liked her company, but he was glad she would get out and do something else too... he knew how important it was to start new routines and keep oneself occupied when there was still too much heartache lingering in the shadows. 

Alec's eyes drift from Jason to Misty, to Jason and back again, his gaze full of curiosity.

Intro

Rosetta new her brother was looking for some kinds of excuse as to why he couldn't come out. He'd never been the master at them and being able to tell was easy as cake. Sometimes she just wished he'd come out and say it instead of making things up. They were all getting hold and Rosetta new it, in the mornings she could feel it and at night now too. One day they would be gone, and it made her sad to think it might come to soon without having the family together or ever meeting her other nieces and nephews.

  "Yeah, Yeah I will...take it easy Jay."

Hanging up the phone and sinking down in her desk chair Rosetta glances at the clock. Everyone would be gathering for dinner and she would join them soon. But there was a pain inside her heart, and a feeling in her stomach as a tear slipped from he eye. So much time had gone, so much had been missed, life had taken its turns, and paved the path for them. And it hurt to know her brother was so far away yet so close. 

Looking at the pictures on her desk for a second Rosetta lets out a long sigh. The smiling faces she was met with, the eyes that twinkled and told story's of happy times. Every moment made was to be made as the best but some days just seemed harder than others as time just seemed to fly by and hours only seemed like minutes.

Standing and wiping her eyes Rosetta new dwelling was not good and it really did nothing. She had to face life head on and take the moments as they came. Life would not wait for anyone so the what ifs had to be put behind her and she had to focus on the here and now. God had give her a lot and she should be thankful for that...not wishing things were different.

   "Alright good..."

Giving a little laugh Katie was a bit excited to introduce her friend to Jeff. She'd talked to him about Hunter and how he had been there for her when she really didn't have anyone else. How he had filled her time with laughter and just company while Jason was off with his friends doing whatever.

Leading Hunter to the mess hall and entering Katie scans the area before leaning back to Hunter a little bit. Pointing out a few of the different people, who they were and what they did around the ranch. At least for now he'd have names to go with the faces and she would do something more formal a little later. Seeing her dad at one of the far tables Katie smiles before heading that way.

   "Hey Dad, I'd like you to meet someone. This is Hunter. He's the guy I was telling you about when I first got here. He deiced to come visit and even stay for a little while. Hunter this is Jeff my dad."

Taking a bite of her pizza Misty just sits back and watches Jason and Alec interact. She was intrusted in how they would and so far they seemed to be getting along ok. There conversation was light and she found the topic Jason picked intrusting.

As Jason offers his help with the bike Misty smiles setting her pizza down and reaching for her pop. Taking a swig Misty thought it was pretty nice to Jason to offer. To her it looked like he was trying and that was important to her. Alec needed more people who were at least trying to forgive and help him. He needed to gain his confadance back and see he didn't need to be arrogant to have friends.

   "I think thats a great idea. I could go with you guys too encase there is anything else from your apartment you need."

Picking up her chicken wing and pulling some of the meat off of it Misty falls quiet again as the silence lingers. It was a little awkward but nothing to bad. Her stomach growled for more food and she couldn't help but laugh wondering if it was her own stomach or the baby that wanted more.

As Jason's topic changes and Misty gets the little gab with his elbow she looks to him and shakes her head giving a laugh and playfully kicking him under the table. Taking another bite of her food she lets the silence linger a moment longer while she chews before replying.

   "Sure thats sounds like it might be nice. Getting out of the office for lunch is always an extra treat rather than eating the same old same old."

Foreign

Hunter laughs and nods. "Yeah, I never minded the smell of horses. Can't stand cows, but horses don't bother me a bit." He quirks an eyebrow. "Good thing too, for as much as my uncle made me muck out stalls." 

Invited to lunch, he shrugs. "I think I could use a bite to eat." In truth, he hadn't eaten much the last few days. He'd been drinking his meals, which, he knew was foolish. "I'd love to meet your dad, too." From the way Katie had talked about him, Jeff seemed like he would be a nice guy. And maybe Hunter was curious to see how they got along. Having a good relationship with one's dad was rather foreign to him. 

Inside the dining room, Jeff eases down at a table in the corner. Taking off his hat and hanging it on the back of his chair, he mops his brow with a bandana. Sparky had said he didn't need to clean stalls, but who else was going to do it? He hadn't wanted to just sit around all morning. Although... it was a little warmer out than he'd thought... 

Taking a couple deep breaths, he tries to slow his heart rate. After lunch he'd be fine. After something to drink and something to eat, he'd be ready to go back out to the barn, he was sure.

Rosetta's gentle rebuke makes Jay feel guilty and he wishes he would have handled things with Jeff differently. He hadn't meant to hurt his brother's feelings. 

As the conversation shifts though, he sighs. "We're, um... we're doing alright. I keep telling Jessica we need to come down and see you guys. It's just finding the right time now. Seems like every day gets busier, ya know?" Would his sister recognize he was fishing for excuses? He hoped not. It had nothing to do with her or any of the rest of the family. He loved them all and missed everyone just as much. He was just... scared. 

A shriek down the hall diverts his attention and he straightens from the kitchen counter. "Sounds like somebody found a spider in the bathroom. I gotta go. Listen... I'm sorry about Jeff. If you get a chance, tell him to call me sometime, okay?" 

Taking Misty's cue, Alec comes to the table and sits, though isn't very relaxed yet. He still felt awkward... being here at all, let alone with Jason in the mix. But he was too hungry to decline. 

Settling in too, Jason enjoys the food but still studying Alec and how different he was. Yet he wasn't so sure he could trust him yet. 

Being thanked for the yard work, Alec just shrugs it off and concentrates on his chicken wing. "It was nothin'." Glancing up at Misty, he can feel he might get smacked if he was within range. "But you're welcome anyway."

There was that humble look again that Jason had seen a few minutes ago. Had Alec really changed? Or was it a ruse? "Misty tells me you're gonna stick around for a while." 

Alec nods and finally looks Jason in the eye. "Yeah... I think so. Til I figure out what I'm gonna do, I guess." 

"I heard Reese let you go but I wasn't sure what all was happening with that."

"Nothing much more than that." Alec takes a slice of pizza. "You're looking at the loser of the month... or year." 

Jason isn't sure how to respond to that, so he doesn't. Again, was that just a comment to make people feel sorry for him, or was it that Alec was genuinely down on himself? Jason couldn't tell. "Still got your bike?" 

"Mmhmm... no money for gas though. It's still at the apartment. Figured I'd walk it here and store it in the garage til I can afford gas again." 

"Ah." Jason shrugs. "If we can get it in the back of my truck, I'll bring it here for you." 

Alec lifts his eyebrows. Really? Jason was offering to help? That was a... surprise. "Um... okay. Yeah, sure. Thanks." 

"Alright." Jason's mind suddenly ping-pongs to another subject and he elbows Misty. "Hey, tomorrow at lunch, Dalton and Dani and... I think Sapphire and Scott are gonna do lunch somewhere. Maybe Gunner too. Or was it Pete? Anyway, they don't care who comes along... You wanna join 'em?"