Tears

The subject of flying brings a new twinkle to Hunter's eye. Whether this was the real him, or the guy back in Nevada was the real him, he did love to fly. And he was happy that Katie liked it too.

Giving Katie a returned squeeze, he starts walking with her again, his arm still over her shoulders... and liking it there. There really was something special about her. She was so different than anybody else he knew. She had her problems... she was going through a tough time... and yet... she had a big enough heart to care about him at the same time. And that was something to be appreciated and respected. 

The rest of the walk back into the ranchyard was quiet, but Hunter was okay with that. He was just as glad that nothing more was said about his character, although the only bad part was that his mind had way too much time to wander now. He tried not to let it though. He was here to clear his head, not clutter it with unwanted thoughts. 

Nearing the buildings, Hunter pauses their steps to finally let Katie go. "I better get myself cleaned up a bit before supper... I'll find you shortly, okay?" Brushing her cheek with a finger, he winks before backing away and finally turning to head to his bunkhouse. 

"Oh, Katie, there you are." Eric wanders out of the barn while coiling up a leadrope. "Every time I see you I forget.... Jason called earlier today. Said he got your text and he was glad to hear your dad was gonna be okay."


How come Misty could read him so well? It didn't seem fair, and Alec felt just a little lower for trying to lie about his hunger. He just hadn't wanted to bother her anymore was all. It was getting late and he didn't want to keep her from bed or anything.

Following her silent order to follow her, Alec obeys tucking his throbbing hand close to his side. Watching her warm up the pizza and wings, his stomach finally growls, as if giving him its own reminder not to neglect it.

Leaning on the kitchen counter and listening, he tries to figure out where she's going with her train of thought. When she gets there though, he can't help the look of surprise that crosses his face. Barely noticing the food that's set in front of him, he just stares at Misty for the longest time, truly shocked she would offer something like that.

"I... I don't know what to say," he admits. Swallowing, he finds a lump has risen in his throat. Behind his eyes burned the heat of unexplainable tears that for some reason wanted to fall - it was a confusing and disliked feeling.

He'd only been there a few days. How could Misty trust him this much? How could she offer him this much? How could she go out on a limb for him like this? It just didn't make any sense at all. He was worthless. A troublemaker. Yet she was trying to help him out even more? Why?

Still staring at her, he shakes his head slowly. "I just don't understand why you're doing this," he responds quietly. "I know you said I'm family but..." He shrugs lamely. "I don't deserve to be here at all, let alone be able to... to stay."

Lack of a Connection

Misty rolls her eyes and stands throwing the rest of the bloody items in the garbage. If Alec's hadn't hurt his hand she would of wackes him over the head.

   "First rule about living here....don't lie. Nothing ever good comes out of it. No matter what its about, how mad someone will get, or how it might them lieing will only make it worse. Got it?"

Washing her hands at the sink Misty drys them before heading out of the kitchen and motioning for Alec to follow. Reaching into the fridge Misty pulls out the pizza box along with some of the wings. She was happy Alec was here of these left overs would just go to wast. There was no way she could eat it on her own.

   "So I was thinking, if we can get that old shed out back cleaned up, some of the fixtures fixed we would turn it into a little apartment. There is a little bathroom in it already, and a kitchen. When we moved in I think at one point it had been used as a shop of some sort. Anyways its not being used now and its a shame to let it go to wast."

Placing the pizza onto a plate and popping it into the microwave. Turning and leaning on the counter she looks at Alec. Today she had, had a great day and she had done a lot of thinking before going out. She just couldn't help her good mood seemed to flow over.

   "I figure since I can't give you the extra bedroom because I'll need it for the baby, not to mention you might want you own place. We could fix it up for you. For now you can continue to work around here for me, and fix that up for yourself as well as payment and than once you get on your feet and find a job we can talk about rent. Sound like a good idea?"

Taking the plate from the microwave Misty sets the steaming plate down in front of Alec with a smile. She liked having him around and was not in a hurry to get rid of him. She wanted him to know he could stay as long as he wanted to because it didn't bother her one bit. It was rather nice knowing there was a man close by in case anything was to happen.

Giving another smile to Hunter Katie just lets the conversation move on. She new it was probley a hard think to swallow what she said and some times she opened her mouth when she shouldn't but what she said was meant to be more of a complement than anything else.

   "Well now we can't have that can we...than we wont be able to fly anymore."

Tightening her arm around Hunter a little more in a hug Katie starts to walk again. There was something, maybe it was the only thing about Hunter she couldn't put her finger on but there was something that made her like him, but much different than she had with Jason. Maybe it was the lack of a connection with Hunter so for the first time she got to feel what a normal person would feel.

The thought in a way was sad but at the same time it wasn't because it made her feel that much different about Hunter and where they were headed. All she new she enjoyed his company, liked how he made her feel and felt safe.

Churned Up

Just an accident? Was that all it was? How come he made so many of them though? He didn't mean to feel guilt about everything, he just... did. He felt as though he didn't have an ounce of pride left, and in some ways, he didn't care either. Without the one person who had made him feel alive... what was the point? Maybe it was he that was an accident. Maybe he never should have been born in the first place and he was just destined to live like this, feeling as though nothing was really worth it anymore. 

Swallowing hard, he just remains quiet, taking in Misty's little lesson about making his own choices. The only problem was that he was always making the wrong ones, even when he thought they were right. He'd thought he'd been right when he'd tried to protect Ryan - and now he saw it was the worst decision he'd ever made. So how was he ever supposed to know? Again, he doesn't respond, but sits quietly as she finishes with his hand. He nods numbly at her instructions, knowing he'd do his best to do what she said - he didn't want to ever feel like he had when he'd had that infection before.

Misty's question about supper automatically sends a hunger pain through his stomach and he looks at the floor. "No... I guess I was too tired," he answers lamely. Why he felt so down tonight, he really wasn't sure. It was as if the pain in his hand had gone straight to his heart for some reason, and the depression had returned like a tidal wave. "I'm not really hungry." 

Stopping with Katie, Hunter isn't sure why she'd halted, but her smile keeps him there as his arm still rests over one of her shoulders. He wasn't sure what he'd though she might say, but her words are not what he expected. They were... deep. Cutting almost. And in a way... it was sobering. 

Hunter doesn't withdraw, but his eyes flicker as his emotions try to build walls that he didn't want to have between himself and Katie. She was exposing the bare truth - a truth which he  rarely admitted even to himself. It was almost frightening. Katie was a woman who had figured him out... who had weighed him and come to a conclusion that perhaps he hadn't yet... or hadn't wanted to. She liked him as he was now... not the rowdy trouble-maker he'd left in Nevada. But he'd accepted that other side of himself as part of who he was... as who he wanted to be. Yet Katie was not just informing him of his mask - she was taking the liberty of pulling it off herself and exposing him, whether he wanted to be or not. And he felt... as though he wanted to hide. It was confusing though, as part of him wanted desperately to embrace what he knew to be the truth that she spoke.

Taken off guard by Katie's gentle kiss, Hunter blinks, finally a little smile returning. She was... soft... timid almost but confident enough to have made that move. And it took the edge off the confusing emotions she'd just churned up. There was a bit of him that would like to pull her closer right about now and return the favor of a kiss. But he didn't want to ruin this moment either, so he refrains. "You're pretty amazing, you know that?" 

He cocks his head. "I'm rather honored to call you my friend, too." It was just as well that he could move on from the topic of himself and who he really was. Keeping the focus on Katie was more comfortable for him. 

Smiling, his hand tugs the back of her hair. "Your only problem is that you pay me way too many compliments. My head won't fit in my helmet anymore if you keep it up."

Baby you

Continuing to work Misty stops once looking up at Alec as he apologizes and says he was sorry. He looked like a little kid about the age of five maybe a little older or younger. In a way it was pathetic though she would never say that.  She only hoped sooner or later Alec would bounce back.

   "You can stop being guilty about everything you do Alec. It was an accident and it happens, there is nothing to get down and out about like you are."

Looking down again and finishing up the last stitch Misty ties it off before throwing the needle in the garbage along with the extra string covered in blood. Hearing Alec make the comment about the liqueur Misty gives a small chuckle.

   "I'm not going to baby you. If you make a bad choose than thats on you Alec. You need to learn to make you own decisions and think about what goes along with it. However, that tiny bit is the last I have. Only other liqueur I have in the house is beer and thats for when guest come over because I sure can't drink it at the moment."

Turning back to the first aid kit Misty pulls out some more gaze pads and some tape. Wrapping his hand on might think he had more than just a cut on his palm but she wanted to make sure no dirt or anything else got into the cut. The last thing she wanted was him to get a bad infection like he had once more. 

   "There you go. Just make sure you keep it clean and you should be ok. In a few days we will see how its healing and take the stitches out. Did you eat anything yet? I think there is left over pizza still."

Giving a laugh Katie shakes her head a little bit as she gives Hunter's back a pat before returning her arm around him. At this point she didn't want to let him go and she was happy she wouldn't have to force him to stay. Though in her mind she new he'd like it here there was still that fear that maybe, just maybe this would of been to country for him.

   "Ha, regret is for the things to do not like, or enjoy. You sir are suck with me having no regrets and the pleasure of me not having to tie you to a tree to keep you here."

Drawing silent Katie thinks about Hunter's previous statement. Did she really make him feel special? Just being herself, normal it was enough for someone to enjoy. Hearing that made her feel pretty good.

Stopping but still keeping her arm around Hunter Katie looks up at him and gives a soft smile. He really made her feel good too. Like she had worth, that there was something special about her and she was thankful for that.

   "Hunter, you are special to me, so you should feel that way. When I first met you, you were just a trouble making who liked to flirt...but since I got to spend more and more time with you there is something deeper. The trouble maker I met wasn't you, it was a mask, a front to hide the pain. I know because thats what I got too. This though, you being here, you caring, smiling, laughing, and just being you...thats the real Hunter and it is so special."

Leaning up Katie comes in a little closer to Hunter and gives him a soft kiss on the lips. Pulling away her smile remained and her eyes twinkled. Maybe this was her way of say thank you that words just could not convey.

   "I am proud, and honored to call you my friend."

Regret

Though Alec hears Misty come home, he wanted to try and clean up before she saw him, but it doesn't quite work that way. He was still bleeding too much to move, and by the time he decides he better say something so Misty knows he's here and alive, she's already found him.

Opening his mouth to respond, he doesn't even have time to before Misty had kicked into doctor mode and is telling him what to do. Clamping shut again, he just does as told, holding the gauze pads to his palm. Under the sink - why hadn't he looked there? Now he felt even more stupid.

When Misty returns with the bottle of liquor, Alec's eyebrows arch. He didn't think there was anything like that in the house, being pretty sure Misty didn't drink, and having thought Carson wasn't the drinker he used to be. He wasn't going to complain though. Taking a good swig, he cringes as it burns on the way down... but it felt good.

Gritting his teeth as Misty continues to work, he focuses on the wall, shutting out the pain. "I cut it on something when I was cleaning the shed. It was okay 'til I tried to clean it and I must've tore it open more or something, I don't know."

Handed back the bottle, he takes another swig. "I was trying to take care of it so you wouldn't be bothered..."

Finally daring a glance at Misty's work, he winces but doesn't flinch. She sure know what she was doing, her fingers moving with precision, working around the blood to sew up the small but deep wound.

"Sorry." His apology is quiet. "I'll try to be more careful."

Fingering the bottle, he really wanted another sip, but he sets it aside on the bathtub instead. "You better not tell me where you keep that," he mentions softly as his eyes drift to the floor.


Hunter gains a new smile as Katie pulls him a little closer. Her words bring a little color to his cheeks and he gives her a little nudge with his shoulder. "Hey now," he chides with the hint of a low growl. "Careful or you're gonna make me feel special here."

Chuckling and letting go of Katie's hand to put his arm around her shoulders instead, he keeps walking while leaning over to kiss the top of her head. "You're gonna have a hard time getting rid of me now, ya know," he teases. "You may come to regret asking me here."

Pain Killers

Heading home Misty does her best to keep her mind on the road but its hard not to think about the night, and Jason. They had something special going on here, and even if it only lasted a day Misty was glad. Something in the back of her mind though told her this was not the only day and the end. This...this was just the start.

Getting home and seeing some of the lights on Misty new that must mean Alec was still awake. Entering the house Misty sets her keys and purse on the table in the hall.

   "Alec, I'm back."

Heading down the hall and to the kitchen Misty pokes her head in. Not seeing anyone she goes to the living room but it was still empty. Seeing the bathroom light shining through the open door Misty heads down the hall again. Giving a little knock she enters.

   "Alec...are you in here? Is everything ok?"

Seeing some of the bloody towels on the counter Misty's heart starts to race a little as she steps in farther to the bathroom. Seeing Alec sitting on the tub and a small pool of blood below him Misty doesn't even skin a beat coming over to him.

Taking his hand in her own she removes the paper tows to look at the deep wound. Seeing how deep it was and knowing he had, had a previous injury to that hand Misty is quick to take action. Turning around to under the kitchen sink she pulls out a first aid kit. There was a few things inside she would need but not everything. Taking out some gauze pads she rips them open and than press them hard to his hand before standing.

   "I need you to hold that there very tightly even if it hurts ok. I'll be right back."

Leaving the bathroom and going to the kitchen quickly Misty opens the cubord pulling out a bottle of liqueur. Moving to another drawr she pulls out a package needle and some thick thread. Returning to the bathroom she sets the items down before handing the bottle to Alec for him to take a drink.

   "For the pain. I am going to have to stitch it up so it stops bleeding and so it doesn't get infected. I don't keep pain killers in the house though so thats gonna have to work. How did you get this?"

Continuing to work and prepare things Misty takes the bottle back from Alec pouring a little of the liquid over the needle to make sure it was extra clean, and than pouring it over the cut as well. She new it would hurt like no tomorrow but it had to be cleaned before she could stitch it up.

Handing the bottle back to Alec Misty sets to work keeping his hand still on her knee with part of her arm and using her free hands to start stitching it up.

Hearing the slight hesitation in Hunter voice Katie looks to him studying his face for a long moment as they walked. She couldn't help but this that maybe there was more than what he was saying. He had everything he wanted, but no one had everything they wanted and it was just look longing look in his eyes that proved that there was some dreams even if he didn't want to talk about it.

Letting it go for now Katie new maybe it was a sensitive subject thinking about to when she first met Hunter. From what she new he and Kyle had been pretty good friends but that night there were not two friends standing there. They were so far away from that it was such a cold look in there eyes.

   "Nobody has everything they want. There are always desires in our hearts, just sometimes...we don't like thinking about it."

Continuing to walk and hearing Hunter's comment about her being a true friend Katie can't help but smile even more. Pulling Hunter a little closer to her he really did make her feel good and it was nice to know that someone really though she was worth something.

   "It makes me feel good to hear you say that. You've been a pretty great friend since we met, you mean a lot to me...so thanks for showing me there are people who still care."

So Much More

Misty's kiss was lighter than expected, but Jason rather liked it. Maybe she really was okay with a bit of softness and not all rough and tumble. Maybe she really was okay with the way he was.

Returning the kiss just as lightly, he smiles as she pulls away. "Yeah... you'll see me." Would they make plans together for lunch or supper again? Probably. But he'd wait until tomorrow.

"Goodnight, Misty." Waiting until she was in her own car and driving away, Jason follows her out of the lot before turning the opposite direction to go home. This had been one... good evening. It had been a long time since he'd felt like this, and it was extremely encouraging as far as his emotions went. He really was feeling a lot more now - or feeling the same but recognizing so much more. Had it taken someone new to help him recover, or would he have been able to get this far with Katie? Now he wondered... and he'd never know.

Arriving home, Jason is greeted with enthusiasm by Trooper and spends a little time with him before sacking out on the couch for a while. He was tired, but not yet ready for bed. His mind was still too full.

As the TV drones, he finds himself looking down at his scarred hand. That had been Katie's hand, belonging only to her. But... not anymore. The scar was just a scar and nothing more. No more pain. No more destruction. It had been made soft tonight. Was this just one evening of forgetting loneliness for a little while? Or when he walked into work tomorrow, would he be greeted with that same sparkling smile? Would Misty's hand rest in his again, feeding him the emotions he'd been longing to feel? He wondered. And... he had a feeling that this was only the beginning.

Smiling to himself, he hugs a throw pillow to get comfortable, turning his focus back to the late night show on TV.


There. Alec finally had the folded paper towel taped to his palm. Why it had been so hard this second time, he didn't know, but he felt like somewhat of an idiot. Cleaning up the bathroom sink the best he can, he stuff the bloody paper towels down further in the waste basket, hoping Misty wouldn't notice. He didn't need to burden her anymore with worries about him. That was the last thing he wanted to do. By morning, it should be better anyway, and he'd ask if there were any bandages in the house.

Shuffling to the kitchen in his bare feet, he gets a glass of water to drink then aims back for the living room. Just as he reaches the couch though, he feels something wet and looks down at his hand, only to discover that the paper towel was soaked through.

"No!" Growling in total frustration, he went back to the bathroom sink once more. This was ridiculous! When he'd cut his hand in the first place, tying a rag around his hand had done the trick, and now nothing was working to stop the bleeding. Had he torn it open more when cleaning it? Was that why it wouldn't stop now? He didn't know, but it was making him mad, and the madder he got, the harder it was to know what to do or get his fingers to work well enough to do anything anyway.

Throwing away the makeshift bandage, he sits on the edge of the bathtub and uses his thumb to put pressure on the wound. Maybe if he held it long enough, it would eventually stop or at least slow enough to attempt another bandage.


Hunter smiles as he walks, returning Katie's squeeze to his hand. He did find her answers interesting though - particularly the one about her mother. He knew her mother had died quite a while ago... she must be thinking a lot about the past to have that wish come up like this. And absolution? Another interesting one. She was a deep thinker for sure... she was deep in many ways, as Hunter was discovering.

"Me?" He chuckles and shakes his head. "I dunno." Or... perhaps it was that his true desires hurt too much to say out loud.

"I guess I've got most anything I want." Oh but there was so much more to it than that. There were so many pains he wanted healed. So many hurts he didn't want to feel anymore. So many questions he wanted answered. So many dreams he dared not voice.

Realizing his eyes had been glued to the ground, he glances to his side and gives Katie a new grin. "Not that long ago, I mighta said I wanted a true friend... but I think I've found that one already."

Many things

Taking Hunter's hand and standing Katie brushed the bits of grass and bark off her clothing. Giving a smile to Hunter before locking finger with his Katie falls in rythem with his walking not finding it hard to keep up.

Hearing his question Katie is silent for a moment. If she could have anything right now, what would she pick? Katie never really though of that question before and the answer was tricky. At one point in time she had been so sure of things an where life was going but now...now she didn't know.

   "One thing...I don't know if there is only one thing. Direction, Absolution, to meet my mom, to never have the good times like now end."

Looking to Hunter and giving a smile Katie squeezes his hand a little. She did enjoy spending time with him and it was nice to enjoy the little things with him. Katie did wonder if it would last. Were there really things in this life that lasted forever?

   "How about you?"

The night really had flown by and Misty wasn't sure she really wanted it to end. Would there be a tomorrow? Would there be more chapters in this story? Something told her yes but still there was this fear that if she let go of Jason now...this might be it. Why she felt like that she wasn't sure.

   "I had a really great time too. Thank you Jase."

Leaning over to him Misty gives him a soft kiss on the lips before withdrawing. It was much different from her normal kiss but maybe in the simple kiss there was so much more. Letting her eyes twinkle Misty turns and opens the car door before stopping and looking back to Jason again.

   "See you at work tomorrow?"

All too soon

Jason can't keep his smile from growing wider. "I don't think I want it to end either. But I guess if it ends..." He leans in, giving Misty's lips another gentle kiss. "...that just means a new one can start." 

Refraining from indulging anymore for now, Jason settles back in his seat, but still leans close to Misty, keeping her hand in his. He'd been on a lot of dates... he'd had more than one girlfriend... but there was something different about this. Something special. And though he didn't know it, there would be future days that he would look back on this evening and smile. 

As the credits of the movie roll, Jason stays in his seat until he and Misty are the only ones left in the theater and the final names were scrolling up the screen. Sighing, he turns to Misty and grins. "Well... I guess that's that." He squeezes her hand. "I suppose it's time to go pick up your car, huh?" 

...And all too soon, they're back at the TJY parking lot, Jason's truck idling next to Misty's waiting car. Jason looks over at her, giving her hand a squeeze. "Thanks, Misty. I... had a really good time tonight." 

Grumbling, Alec tosses another blood-soaked paper towel into the trash, keeping his hand under the running water in the bathroom. His hand had finally stopped bleeding earlier, but when he'd gone to change the makeshift bandage, it had started all over again. He'd been able to doze off for a while, but it had just left him more drowsy than anything, not helping his mood any. 

Wincing, he attempts to use a fresh folded paper towel again, biting off a piece of tape to try and stabilize it on his hand like he had before. Another slip though and he was left with another bloody mess. Growling in frustration, he wipes some sweat from his brow and tries again.

Hunter chuckles, just glad he'd helped Katie a little bit. "Yeah, well..." He reaches up to brush her cheek with his finger. "You've got a bit of magic yourself there, missy." 

Standing slowly, he brushes off his jeans and holds out his hands to help Katie to her feet as well. Grabbing his jacket to sling over his shoulder, he takes Katie's hand to begin the walk back across the pasture.

"So... if you could have anything in the world right now, what would it be?" 

End

As the softer kiss come Misty can't help the smile that spreads across her face and the little chuckle at the same time. Soft was different but it wasn't a bad different but she liked it. There was something about the soft that was just as good as the rough and with Jason they both felt just as normal as the other.

   "I wouldn't want you to have a heart attack, though at least it would be for a good reason."

Giving a smile Misty's eyes twinkle. She new this wasn't the place to really make out but she didn't really care. If people wanted to mumble, or be discussed than they could. She didn't really care what other people had to say. Affection was not something she believed in hiding it was a beautiful thing.

   "I think this is the best movie I ever saw....I don't want it to end."

As Hunter starts to rub her shoulder and back Katie closes her eyes again just letting the feeling of her muscles loosing washing over her. It felt good to have a bad rub and to get that knot out felt even better.

   "Nah it wasn't you it was just the angle I was lay at that did me in."

Continuing to just enjoy the rub Katie lets out a sigh only turning around again once Hunter was finish. Moving her head a little bit the knot wasn't gone but it was definitely better. Looking up at Hunter and smile it felt nice to be pampered a little.

   "You have magic hands you know that? Thank you."

Knots

Had Jason ever felt like this before? He wasn't sure. Maybe it was just the thrill of being with Misty like this for the first time. Maybe it was just how she kissed and gave him affection. Maybe it was just how he was rediscovering his emotions, and so feeling these things was all the more sweet. Whatever the cause, Jason felt as though he couldn't get enough. 

Taking the cue from Misty and deepening the kiss, Jason wishes there wasn't an armrest separating them. Or... maybe it was a good thing it was there, since they were sitting in a public theater. He wasn't really sure how long he and Misty continued their affection, just bathing in experiencing each other as more than friends and finding out what it felt like. 

At some point, Jason slowly draws back with a string of softer kisses before finally catching his breath as he studies Misty's eyes by the moving light of the screen. His thumb traces circles on her cheek, as a gentle smile creases his lips. "Keep it up," he whispers, "and Rick's gonna ask why I had a heart attack." 

He stifles a laugh, trying not to make too much noise and bother the other people. 

Hunter chuckles, shaking his head. "Don't be sorry. I just woke up myself. Guess you must've felt pretty comfortable to me too." 

Seeing her trying to straighten out what must feel like the same kinks he had in his own back, Hunter shifts around a little before taking both her shoulders from behind. Rolling his thumbs around her shoulder blades, he gently massages her muscles, working down a short ways then back up to her neck. 

"Walking around with knots like this will never do," he chides. "Apparently I wasn't comfortable enough." 

Grinning, he gives her neck a few last rubs before patting her shoulders. "Feel better?" 

Comfortable

As Jason comes back for yet another kiss Misty doesn't pull away but accepts it. He was a good kisser, and the feelings that were being shared between them, they were amazing. Not even words could really describe it, or even start to express the feels she had. All she can do is return the kiss with just as much passion.

Bringing her hand up to Jason's face Misty gently cradles it letting her thumb run over his cheek. Just letting her own passion and emotions flow again Misty deepens the kiss a little more. The movie played on but she didn't care much. They could always rent it when it came out on video to see how it ended. What did matter was Jason, here and now.

Moving slightly and feeling the gentile rub on her shoulders Katie's eyes flutter for a second before opening. Taking a second to bring things into focus Katie finally remembers where she was. Sitting up and looking at Hunter thank looking to the sky she shakes her head. She must have been more tired than she thought.

   "Wow, I am so sorry Hunter. I didn't mean to fall asleep on you its just...you were really comfortable and I guess, I was really tired."

Sitting up a little straighter Katie trys to work out some of the tight spots she now had in her back. The nice nap really left her refreshed even if there was a little pain now. It was well work it, she only hoped Hunter didn't mind to horrible much.

Giving another smile and nod Rosetta stands up too. She still had some paperwork to catch up on before the night was though. Feed needed to be ordered, papers for the horses being taken to auction signed, and a few other odds and ends.

   "Miss out on dinner, now that is a crazy thing to do. I'll see you a little later Jay."

Waving a little to her brother Rosetta takes her exit and makes her way to the office. The last few days had been long and she sure felt it but life moved on anyways. Now was the time she could relax and catch up on a few things. Some people hated paper work and while she liked being in the action, she liked the paper signing too.

Bliss

Jay laughs, his eyes regaining a twinkle. "Strangers you are not. Although sometimes I think I'm the one that's a stranger anymore." 

Shaking his head, he finally stands up and yawns. "Well, I think I'm gonna mosey on out to the barn and see if I can lend a hand. Otherwise I might take a nap instead and I'd probably miss out on supper if I did that." 

He picks up his cup and gives Rosetta a final smile. "I'll see ya later." 

Cold, pitch black water surrounds Hunter, the strong current dragging him down against his will. His legs kick and his arms grope forward, only to be pulled by an invisible force towards the deepening abyss. His lungs screamed for air, burning in his chest. His eyes squint into the murkiness, to be met only with darkness. A new rush of water surges upon him, pinning him to the river bottom. But as he screams, water surges to fill his lungs.

Waking with a jolt, Hunter lies still but his eyes bounce around his surroundings, trying to figure out where he was. His heart was beating rapidly, but that was the only sign of his short nightmare. Blinking away the fog, he realizes he's still sitting under the pasture tree... with Katie. Glancing down, he sees her peaceful form and is glad that he hadn't woken her too. What a strange dream. He was glad it was over, and didn't even want to try to dissect it. 

Not having planned on falling asleep, his muscles feel a bit sore, but he doesn't move, not wanting to wake Katie yet. He didn't know how long they'd been there, but the sun was lower in the sky, proving it had been a little while. Katie must have really been tuckered out to fall asleep here with him too. In a way, it proved she trusted him, and he was... glad. She was going through such a rough time right now, he just wanted to help, and if providing her a safe shelter for just a little while, he was glad to do it. 

Resting his head back against the tree again, he sighs deeply. His hand around Katie rubs her shoulder just gently enough that if she was on her way to waking up, she would, but if she was still sound asleep, he wouldn't bother her. 

Grinning back at Misty after returning her kiss, Jason's hand squeezes hers. "Stealing is more exciting than asking," he whispers. 

Going back for another kiss, he lets it linger, deepening it with each moment until his free hand was resting on her cheek. He could hear the music swell in the movie, knowing that something important was happening, but he ignores it, just falling into Misty's sweet kiss once more. Bliss could be taken away at any moment, and this was one time he was not going to stand idly by... he was going to take advantage of this chance... this chance to be close to someone... whether it lasted one second, one day, or one lifetime.

Steal

Giving a little weary smile Rosetta nods. Jay told her not to worry but if she didn't than it just wouldn't be like her one bit. She cared for her family and what went on with them. After Jay had been gone for so long she isn't quite sure what he would need to talk to them about that made him so nervous.

   "Alright I can do that and I am sure you will do ok with the crowd. It's not like we are strangers."

Having Hunter wrap his arms around her and push her hair from her face Katie's smile grows a little more. It felt nice, she felt safe....sitting here was all to comfortable. There was just something different about Hunter, something that was super comfortable and Katie could tell it felt good.

Continuing to just listen to Hunter's heart beating and his breath moving her head it was almost like a lullaby. Like someone was singing her to sleep. Before Katie new it her eyes were getting heavy. A little sleep wouldn't be a bad thing right? 

A soft wind blows that cools everything down. It was hot out, but with the nice breeze it wasn't so bad. Not being able to keep her eyes open any longer they finally drift shut and she was asleep peacefully for the first time in week.

Sitting down and getting comfortable in the seat Misty was rather excited to see the movie. Not just because it had been a long time but because Jason was there with her. Seeing a movie with someone and knowing they are enjoy it too made it so much better to watch.

As the movie plays and the popcorn starts to go down and down Misty reaches in again for more only to find the bucket empty. Giving a little laugh she sets the bowl aside for now. The movie seemed good so far but her mind kept wondering. Every once and a while she'd glance as Jason just to see if he was looking at her. Catching him once or twice her hand finds his and she gives it a little squeeze.

Feeling Jason lean over closer to her and give her a kiss on the cheek Misty gives a little chuckle. The light kiss brought some color to her cheeks as she looked to Jason. This might be a movie she never saw before but Jason was far more intrusting.

   "Had to steal another one huh?"

Leaning in Misty presses her lips to Jason's letting it linger for a long moment before pulling away. Her eyes twinkling she gives a shy little grin.

   "I don't mind at all."

Asleep

Jay nods slowly, looking down at his empty glass again, lost in thought. Rosetta's question brings his gaze back up again and he gives her a smile... a softer smile than normal. "Yeah... I think everything's okay. It's just time I said some things that have been on my mind." 

Thinking for another moment, he nods again with a little more confidence. "Don't worry. I just don't wanna have to repeat myself a zillion times, so it would be easier if everyone was together. " He tries to reassure her, but he knew she would worry anyway. She always had such great concern for her family, and he appreciated that about her. This time though, she'd have to wait until tomorrow night. He still needed to figure out exactly how he'd say what he wanted and... muster up his courage too.

"Say a little prayer for my nerves though, eh?" He chuckles. "I'm not used to talking in front of big crowds."

As Katie's arm goes around him and her head comes to lay on his chest, Hunter's eyebrows arch in surprise. He knew she must be utterly exhausted, but he hadn't really expected her to take to him quite like this. He didn't mind though. On the contrary... it... felt nice. 

Smiling, he lowers his arms from behind his head, settling one around Katie's shoulders, while his other hand rests on hers. Her words of staying like that forever give him a strange warm feeling down deep... as if perhaps he was relearning what it felt like to have someone care about him. And... the feeling was mutual. 

"I think I could handle that," he responds quietly. Lifting his arm a little, his hand combs through Katie's hair, tucking it away from her face before his arm wraps back around her shoulders again. Leaning his head back against the tree, he could think of a more comfortable place. The ground was hard, the bark behind his head was rough, and yet... having Katie here with him like this held such a quiet peace that he might like to stay like this forever too. 

Slowly, slowly, Hunter's eyes drift shut until his breathing had grown even quieter beneath Katie's head. He'd enjoyed the day, but he was rather tired himself, and it was just so nice here... 

"You kidding? I'm not gonna tell him." Jason takes a handful of popcorn to munch on as he grins. "Your job is to let him forget he was gonna test my blood tomorrow morning." 

Settling back in the comfortable seat as the movie begins, Jason eats some more popcorn and shares the soda pop with Misty too, remaining quiet for a long while and just enjoying the plot. It didn't take too long though, for the popcorn to be gone, leaving his hand free to sneak over and across Misty's shoulders, pulling her a little closer to him. 

As the movie plays on, Jason finds his mind wandering a bit, still watching and taking it in, but half of his focus had strayed to Misty. Leaning his head over ever so slowly, he places a soft kiss on her cheek before grinning at her. They weren't in a well-lit restaurant now, and nobody was sitting behind them. 

Forever

Looking down at Hunter's jacket and than up at him Katie gives a laugh. She would of sat with Hunter anyways but just seeing him offer his coat to her Katie can't help but smile.  Under everything He really was a gentleman and Katie had found that out more than once.

   "I think this is one of the best spot to come to."

Sitting down next to Hunter Katie leans her head back trying to get comfortable but for some reason today she just couldn't. Glancing and Hunter, and than back out to the pasture again, than back to Hunter Katie scoots a little closer. Drapping her one arm over Hunter's stomach she lays her head down on his chest.

   "Ohhh, you are comfortable, or..I am really tired, or it could be both."

Katie was kind of drained. After everything that had been going on she just wanted a little bit of peace. Her body felt tired, her mind felt tired, what little emotions she was discovering where tired too.

Feeling Hunter's chest go up and down, up and down and the soft beat of his heart was soothing to Katie. It was in rythem, and seemed just calming. She just couldn't help but feel good listening to it.

   "Mmmm...lets stay like this forever!"

Looking at her brother and cocking her head a little bit Rosetta study's Jay's face for a second. She wondered what he wanted to have a meeting about and why. It seemed like an odd request but not odd enough to refuse.

   "Yeah we can do that...Later in the evening after dinner should be a good time. Everyone is usually around at that time and the kids go there own ways."

Just continuing to study him she couldn't help but wonder. Was something wrong? Did something happen? Was everyone ok? They were all the questions couldn't help but ask herself. Thanks to The Agency it was always the worst that was thought of first.

   "Is...everything ok?"

Wondering into the movie theater Misty looks around for a second. It didn't look to busy today and she rather liked it that way. Less people, less things to worry about, less talking it was pretty much all summed into one.

   "How about up in the back. That way if anyone else comes in they wont be in our way and it gives us a better view."

Walking up the steps Misty carrys the popcorn till coming to the top and sliding along the seats. Getting to the middle she figured this was probley the best place as any to sit. Finally plopping down Misty turns to Jason and smiles holding out the popcorn.

   "If Rick asks this did not happen ok."

Still holding Jason's hand even in the dark room her smile seemed to shine bright. Things were so different with Jason but it was a different she liked.

Invitation

Sliding out of the booth too, Jason stands and, for a moment, just looks down at Misty, amazed at seeing all she had to give. All she was. Despite everything that was happening in her life, she was still choosing to live. And she was choosing to live it with him. And that... was an honor. 

Gripping her hand tightly, he smiles and leads the way to the counter to pay before leaving the restaurant. The ride to the movie theater was quiet. It would seem that a lot could be said. A lot could be discussed or mulled over after suddenly being taken to a different kind of relationship. But it seemed that there was simply no need. So often, Jason and Misty both had withheld words - speaking only through their eyes. Respect had always been mutual. And so had understanding. So now as they sat in the pickup, just as always before, word just weren't needed. They both knew exactly where they stood and what all of this meant. The only conversation that took place was between their clasped hands and the affectionate movement of fingers or palms. It's all they needed. 

Once to the theater, they still had time to look over the movie posters but wind up deciding on the super hero flick again. After ordering a bucket of popcorn and a drink to share, Jason wanders with Misty into the dark interior of the theater. Looking around at all the available seats, he glances to Misty. "You pick." He didn't care where they sat. 

Jay nods slowly, still concerned about Katie, but glad to know that Rosetta was confident she would be okay. "Hey, um... off the subject, but..." He shrugs and searches for what he wants to say. 

"Tomorrow evening... after Jeff's back..." He fiddles with his empty glass, seeming to be just a little apprehensive. "Would it be alright if we had a family meeting?" He finally catches Rosetta's eye, wondering if she'd go along with it. "Just the nine of us and spouses. Not the kids though. I've just... got something I wanna say to y'all."

Having Katie reach up to his hand at her shoulder, Hunter was a little surprised, but a smile creases his lips as he curls his fingers around hers. "Lead the way." 

After tagging along to the dining hall, Hunter follows Katie out behind the barns and into one of the pastures. He wasn't sure where on earth she was taking him, but he doesn't question her. Finally realizing the tree was their destination, he nods his approval. "This looks like an awfully good spot to me." Turning around, he gazes across the scenery, liking how secluded this spot felt, yet they could still see what was going on, and the horses provided a peaceful atmosphere. 

Shedding his jacket, he was glad he hadn't dropped it off at his bunkhouse as intended. Laying it on the ground, he eases down to sit on it, leaning back against the tree. Putting his hands up behind his head and stretching out his legs to cross them at his ankles, he sighs with content. A cool breeze relieved the heat of the day, combing gently through his hair. "Mm... this is nice." It had been too long since he'd just... relaxed. 

Glancing down to the other half of his jacket, he looks up at Katie and quirks a grin, inviting her to sit next to him if she wanted.

Nice Spot

Mmmmm...motivation that was what life was pretty much about. Being motivated to fight, win survive, move forward at all cost and not look back. It's what drove Misty on, it's what left her allow these feelings for Jason to come out freely now.

As Jason comes in again for a more light kiss Misty didn't mind. Rough was good, but soft was ok as well and it didn't bother her at all. Once Jason pulls away again Misty lets her smile show. She was happy, she was pleased.

   "I think going to the movie now sounds perfect."

Keeping her fingers locked with Jason's Misty slides out of the booth giving a smile. She might be done smooching with Jason at the moment but she wasn't ready to let go of his hand. She felt...young again like she finally got the chance with her crush. It was a feeling that was different but she liked it.

   "Onward, a movie, popcorn and two chairs are awaiting us."

Rosetta gives a smile and a nod of her head. She agreed with her brother, no matter what the other side of the story was things had gone sour and it was sad. But being able to see Katie smiling again was a good thing. Her smile was way to pretty to waste.

   "That she does. When she first came back I was quite worried about her. Maybe now I still am a little. But seeing her with her friend I think...she's gonna be ok."

As Hunter swings his arm around her Katie's hand goes to his and locks fingers. Was this normal for friends? Were they more than friends? Did it matter? Not really all Katie new is having Hunter there, having his affection it felt good and chased away the shadows that larked around. Even if it was just for a little bit it was something and it helped.

   "A little relaxation huh? I think I know the right place come on."

Going to the mess hall first and dropping off there left over Katie than leads Hunter around back to one of the barns. Walking through one of the pasture Katie stops at a loan tree that stood in the middle. It offered much shade, a nice view of the sky, and one could even watch the horses graze if they wanted too.

   "How this look for a nice spot?"

Comfy Seats

Jason grins, stifling another laugh as his cheeks grow warm. He wasn't sure he'd ever been complimented like that on his kissing before. 

"Um... no, not all the time. Just... when something motivates me." 

Just gazing into those never-ending eyes... holding her soft hand... feeling her fingers running gently through his hair... it was as if all his questions this past week about him and her and where they were going had been suddenly answered. He knew legally she was still married... but she had also initiated a divorce. He knew that it would be impossible for her to have rid herself of all love for Carson already... but he also knew that she was not a woman to stand still - she had made up her mind to move on. He knew that in a way, she was on the rebound, still struggling with being abandoned... but they had also known each other for longer than this past month and these feelings were not new ...or unexpected. So yes, there were some apprehensions lurking in the back of Jason's mind... but none major enough for him to withdraw now. He liked Misty. She was lonely. He was lonely. She liked him. They got along great. Why not just go with the flow and see what would happen? 

Leaning back in, Jason gives Misty's lips a more tender kiss this time before pulling back to rest against her forehead again. "How about we get to the theater, hmm?" His hand continues to softly move around hers. "I hear two comfy seats calling our names..."


Dani squeals as she's picked up, wrapping her arms around Dalton's neck. Laughing, she gives him a quick kiss on the cheek and nods. "Okay. I promise."

Grinning, she points to the kitchen. "Onward, my prince charming! To the chocolate pie!"

Jay smiles and nods slowly, agreeing with his sister's observation. "I get the funny feeling Hunter's on the edge of something... like one step will either take him in the right direction or a very wrong one. Then at the same time, he's so likable that I forget he hasn't been a lifelong friend of Katie's." 

He shrugs. "I don't know. You're right though - he's different. They're different together. I just hope things turn out well for the both of them, whether they're just friends or not. Katie could stand something to go right for once lately." 

Hunter chuckles and shakes his head. "I'm the odd man out here - how is it that I get to pick what we do?" 

Swinging off his bike, he stretches tall, twisting to pop his back before sighing with content. "I feel like I should choose to work, but if I'm going to be honest, I gotta say, just chilling for a while sounds like a good idea too." 

Slinging an arm around Katie's shoulders, he gives her a playful jolt. "I just wanna get rid of this city slicker label," he admits. "Maybe I can pitch in with chores later? If... you wanna help me find a nice shady spot to relax for the time being?"

Breath Away

As Jason returns the kiss Misty's deepens a little more. If this was anyone but Jason Misty might think things were going to fast or it was just a rebound but because it was Jason she new it was neither. They had always been close, they always had that attraction and they had always had these feelings. They had just been locked away knowing both could not step over that line till now.

When Jason pulls away and leans his head against hers once more Misty catches her own breath. It had been quite the exchange and it had taken her breath away but it had been worth it very much. Letting her one hand still play with Jason's hair and her other locked with Jason's feeling the soft motion on her palm Misty smile widens as she study's Jason's eyes again.

   "Not all the time, just....most of the time. Do you kiss like that all the time..because boy you took my breath away, and I liked it."

Dang...

Misty's response shouldn't have surprised Jason. He knew better than to think being in a restaurant would keep her from doing whatever she wanted. Perhaps he just hadn't expected it to come tonight... this quickly. Either way, as her lips touch his, he doesn't resist. 

Closing his eyes, he immediately returns Misty's kiss, feeling a sensation comparable to an electrical shock shoot down his spine. Her hand brushing past his neck again almost causes him to break the kiss, but he manages to relax as her touch finds its way to his hair.

Still caressing her one palm, Jason's free hand slips around her shoulders to rub her back. Withdrawing only slightly from her lips, he tilts his head the opposite direction to lead the second kiss, forgetting about trying to think things through. Ever since waking up in the infirmary without knowing how to read his own emotions, nothing had felt as strongly as this. It was overpowering. It was immediately addictive and he couldn't get enough. It brought on warmth... a rush of adrenaline... excitement... passion... all those things he hadn't felt in so long. 

Almost growing dizzy from the unexpected rush, Jason pulls back slightly to catch his breath, once more leaning his forehead against Misty's. 

"Dang," he breathes, almost choking on a short laugh. His hands continue their soft movements, his eyes piercing hers. "You always kiss like that?"

Zooom.....Zinggggg....BOOM....

Letting her smile turn into a little grin that danced with mischeaf Misty's fingers tingle as Jason's own move around her hand. His fingers soft yet strong, light yet powerful. Finally letting her own fingers lock with Jason's Misty lets out a breath that she had taken in.

Jason's comment makes Misty's eyes dance some more as she continues to look into his. Pure emotions, feelings flowing forth, not needing to be held back. There was no wall, there was nothing stopping them now.

   "Let them kick us out. It just means we got a free meal...and so much more."

Pulling her head away and tilting it slightly to the side Misty comes back again letting her eyes finally fall shut as her lips press against Jason's. Taking her free hand Misty bring its around brushing Jason's neck again before her hand finds the back of his head and her hand combs through his hair.

Letting her emotions oh her emotions, her feelings, the door that had been lock swung open now and in this kiss Misty bore it all. Her heart racing so loud she thought for sure everyone would hear it. Her skin had goosbumps though she didn't mind. No, nothing would rune this moment right here.

Any idea?

Dani squeals as she's picked up, wrapping her arms around Dalton's neck. Laughing, she gives him a quick kiss on the cheek and nods. "Okay. I promise."

Grinning, she points to the kitchen. "Onward, my prince charming! To the chocolate pie!"

Jay smiles and nods slowly, agreeing with his sister's observation. "I get the funny feeling Hunter's on the edge of something... like one step will either take him in the right direction or a very wrong one. Then at the same time, he's so likable that I forget he hasn't been a lifelong friend of Katie's." 

He shrugs. "I don't know. You're right though - he's different. They're different together. I just hope things turn out well for the both of them, whether they're just friends or not. Katie could stand something to go right for once lately." 

Hunter chuckles and shakes his head. "I'm the odd man out here - how is it that I get to pick what we do?" 

Swinging off his bike, he stretches tall, twisting to pop his back before sighing with content. "I feel like I should choose to work, but if I'm going to be honest, I gotta say, just chilling for a while sounds like a good idea too." 

Slinging an arm around Katie's shoulders, he gives her a playful jolt. "I just wanna get rid of this city slicker label," he admits. "Maybe I can pitch in with chores later? If... you wanna help me find a nice shady spot to relax for the time being?"

Jason holds his gaze on Misty's eyes, feeling as though he couldn't look away even if he wanted to. With her forehead against his, his pulse quickens slightly but he doesn't move.

As she trails her fingers down his cheek and to his neck, he sucks in his breath, tensing slightly. Did she have any idea what that did to him? Feeling her touch come to rest on his hand, his face grows warm and he wonders if she could tell, being this close. 

Still not moving his eyes, he turns his hand so they were resting palm to palm. His scarred surface was ultra sensitive, sending tingles up his arm as he shifts his hand to gently caress hers. His fingers slide up beyond hers then down again, intertwining then shifting to caress again before finally locking and curling around her own fingers.

With pulse racing, Jason swallows hard. He hadn't exactly planned this... now... like this. But there was no denying how he felt, or what she was giving him permission to do. How long had they kept their feelings to themselves? Locked away safely - and rightly so - always believing there would never be this chance? And right now... in this moment... they were both free. 

"Do you have any idea how badly I want to kiss you?" he whispers. His grip on her hand tightens slightly. "I just don't wanna get kicked out of here before paying the bill..." 

O.O; \ o.o /

Once getting back to the ranch Katie takes her own helmet off and shakes her head for a little bit. She couldn't help but feel special coming back to the ranch with Hunter on his bike. It made her feel in a way like a princess to a much different story.

   "It was really nice. We will have to do it again for sure. Thank you as well for just...being there for me like always."

Swinging her leg around the bike and sliding down Katie's hand dags along Hunter's shoulder and down his arm. Resting it on his hand for a second Katie gives it a pat smiling. She really had enjoyed the ride and having Hunter with her at the hosp just seemed to make it a little easier to deal with.

   "So what one the agenda after I drop the extra stuff off at the mess hall. More work? A little relaxation? It's your pick."

Following Jay's gaze outside the window to Hunter and Katie who had just made it back to the ranch Rosetta gives a small smile. She had her own thoughts about those two but no solid prof and the last thing she wanted to do was spread a bunch of rumors around. 

   "At times it would seem they would be close than friends but that is only an assumption. As far as fact go though Hunter became friends with Katie unexspectiny and when she needed a friend, because she was feeling ignored and useless he didn't turn away. He stuck his neck out, and didn't take advantage when he could of so easily."

Rosetta new the young mans history. It was part of her job to know and letting him come here to work without paying it was a requirement. And though he had made a lot of bad chooses Rosetta could see something good inside of him too. There was something good there waiting to flower if given the chance.

   "So yes I see it too, there is something special there. It's hard to put a finger on and something much much different than what Katie and Jason had but as far as anyone knows they are just friends."

Standing with Dani and watching her struggle to walk Dalton can't help but laugh a little again. Not wanting to have her hurt herself anymore than she already was he bends down a little bit and puts his arms behind her legs before scooping her up off her feet and standing straight again holding her close to him.

   "I promise I wont tell anyone if you promise not to let everyone know my two weakness ok?"

Looking down at the screen with Jason Misty understood what he meant about reviews. How could one really go by just that? Everyone had different tastes and maybe theirs wasn't the same as the critic. So just going and seeing the movie would really be the best bet.

   "Alright than it sounds like we know what movie we are going to watch."

Turning her head and looking up at Jason again Misty now realizes just how close she had gotten to him. With in inches of his face she eyes lock with his as she can feel her heart pick up a few beats. Looking deep into Jason's eyes Misty couldn't help it. They just drawed her in, they always had.

   "We....can do popcorn just...tell Rick I told you not to so I don't get chewed out."

Her voice was but a whisper as she gives a shy little smile. Leaning her for head against Jason's her eyes never leaving his. Something had always been there...a forbidden attraction so friend they had stayed both respecting each other but now they were free...would more become?

Bringing her hand to Jason's face Misty brushes his cheek for a moment with her fingertip before retreating them around his jawline, down his neck, shoulder, arm and than resting on his hand. She could never describe why they had such an attraction to each other from day one...they just did, not that she minded at all.

Imagination?

"Beautiful." Hunter gives the bike some gas before putting his foot back where it belonged as he shoots down the way Katie had told him. They were closer to the ranch than he'd thought. Sad that the ride was coming to and end, but good that they wouldn't have to walk. He wouldn't ever admit that the gas tank was closer to empty than he'd planned. He hadn't been paying enough attention to it, and was glad that he'd noticed it before it had actually run dry. 

Getting back to the ranch, Hunter slows the bike, downshifting before turning into the driveway. Riding slowly up to the garage, he parks and finally cuts the engine. Taking off his helmet, his hair is matted and a little sweaty as he runs his fingers through it. Looking over his shoulder at Katie, he smiles. "Thanks... I needed a good ride and... your company made it even better." 

Biting his lip, he turns back around, waiting for her to dismount before he did, so he wouldn't kick her. 

Sitting inside the dining hall near the window, Jay had been enjoying conversation with some of the family, catching up on on what had been happening here at the ranch and sharing about his own family. He was so happy that everyone had welcomed him here with open arms, just like Rosetta. His fear of rejection had been silly... and he realized that now. 

Across from Rosetta at the table, he finishes off his glass of lemonade before movement outside catches his eye and he sees Hunter and Katie returning. Watching them for a moment, he then looks back to his sister with curiosity. "So... there more between them than just friendship, or is it just my imagination?" 

Dani rolls her eyes and nods. "Yeah, I'll be fine. Hurts something awful, but I think my pride is more bruised than my toe." 

Shaking her head, she looks closer at her foot that was propped up on the coffee table. She sure had whacked it good. "I suppose some ice might be wise, but we have to get some pie first." 

Using Dalton's hand to pull herself up, she stands, cocking her foot so her toe didn't touch the floor. Starting to hobble forward, she thinks better of it, and grabs Dalton's arm. "I think you better come with me before I fall and break an ankle instead." 

Still feeling incredibly silly, a new giggle slips out and she turns to bury her face against Dalton. "You better not tell anybody about this."

Having Misty come over to his side of the table, Jason slides his glass over to make room for the phone. Leaning closer to her so he could see the small screen, he nods. "I'm not in the mood for a love story either, so that narrows it down." 

Squinting, he leans down a little more, his shoulder bumping Misty's. "Looks like the reviews of the super hero one are pretty good. Not that I go by those, but it can't be too horrible. I'm good with watching some good ol' kick butt action if you are." 

Turning his head, he hadn't realized how close they were as he looks into Misty's eyes, just inches away. He grins. "But only if we get some popcorn." He couldn't believe he was thinking of food after just having finished such a meal, but what was the fun of going to the movies without getting a snack? "By the time it starts, I'll be hungry again," he teases.

Oh no Mr.

Misty's cheeks turn a slight shade of red at Jason's comment though she didn't feel awkward. Maybe it was because she had known Jason for so long and though they never acted on it there was always an unspoken attraction there that now was aloud to come out.

Though Misty's heart still ached at the loss of her Husband she refused to let it get her down to the point of not functioning even if she did miss Carson. Jason was doing a good job though of filling that gap she felt. He helped her feel like she was ok, and it was Carson's loss not her own. Even if Jason didn't know it he made her feel a lot of things and reminded there was nothing wrong with her Carson was the one who had a problem.

   "Yeah I have to say this is the closest I have found to the real food they have in Greece. Some places say its Greek but as soon as you bit into it you know its not. This is great though."

Finishing up her meal and ordering a helping of Baklava Misty insisted Jason taste it too. This Greek dessert was one that she loved the most and there was no way he was going to get away without trying it. 

Looking across the table at Jason as she eat she listened to the movies. She wasn't sure what sounded good and what didn't. At this point she had such a nice time if she picked something crappy she didn't know if it really would rune the night or not. Just being with Jason was nice enough.

   "Oh no Mr. I picked where we went to eat...and the movie I said we could pick together. You're not going to get out of it that easy."

Placing the last bit of her dessert into her mouth Misty slides out of the booth and comes over to Jason's side sliding in next to him. Turning the phone around and looking down at it and thinks for a moment before looking up.

   

   "I don't know about you but I am not really in the mood for a love story flick. Does the super hero one have good reviews?"

Giving a another laugh and shaking his head Dalton does his best to maneuver around Dani and the table not falling himself. Holding his hand out to Dani Dalton helps her up with ease and lets her sit down on the couch. Lifting her foot he looks at it. A nice black and blue mark had formed already with a little bit of swelling but it didn't look broken.

   "I think...its going to be sore for a little bit but you will survive My Lady."

Reaching out and pushing a peace of hair behind Dani's ear Dalton gives a smile. He hadn't meant to laugh at Dani's pain but he was laughing with her, not at her. The whole ordeal had just been silly.

   "So now on a serous note...are you going to be ok?"

   "How could I not think happy thoughts at the moment?!"

Katie's comment had no need to be answered as they took off again. It pretty much spoke for itself on what she mean and she new that Hunter would know as well. He was smarter than most people though.

Leaning into Hunter it was like second nature that Katie just moved like he did on the bike. Making sure to stay low to him, lean when he did and yet still enjoy everything around them as it wized by. The warmth and cool mixed together was so refreshing, and it took the edge off the heat. It was perfect.

   "Running out of gas on a day like this could be a bad thing that I would like to avoid."

Knowing they really did have to get back Katie looks left and than looks right getting her bearing where they were. It didn't take long before Katie taped Hunter's leg a little bit.

   "Go left here, straight for about four miles, take a right and go straight. The ranch will be on the right hand side."

Happy Thoughts

"Ha!" Jason laughs outright before taking another bite of food. "Can you imagine Reese pulling me into his office and locking the door? I can just see those big Papa Bear eyes boring holes into me as he reminds me how special his niece is." 

Cocking his head, Jason gives Misty a softer grin. "I don't think I need that reminder though." Returning to his food, he sighs with content. "I think this is gonna be a new favorite place of mine." 

Being able to relax was perhaps something Jason had taken for granted for too long. But feeling so at ease tonight, he appreciates it so much. He had his other friends. He had his old buddies, and he had Sandy. They were all fun. But Misty knew him well, she knew his history and she knew more about what he was going through than anybody else. She was helping him heal... and he knew it. 

Sitting in the restaurant lingers even after they were both finished eating. Just letting their food settle for a while felt good and it helped spend the time before any movies would start anyway. 

"Okay..." Jason looks at his phone after he'd looked up showtimes on the internet. "We've got... a comedy that looks really stupid... a love story that I haven't heard of... another comedy that might be okay... something that looks like a family drama.... and an action flick with super heroes." 

Looking to Misty, he reaches his phone across to her so she could see. "Take your pick." 

Dani's giggling only increases as she's poked, tensing as Dalton's finger tickles her. "Yes! Yes, I'm gonna make it. Stop poking me, ya big galah." 

Realizing she'd just sounded like Carson, she scrunches her nose, another giggle slipping out. Finally lowering her hands so her flushed face is exposed, she rolls her eyes. "Help me up. I think I broke a toe." 

Smiling at Katie's directions to Neverland and feeling her arms tighten, Hunter brings a hand to hers, giving it a squeeze before gripping the handlebars again. "Think happy thoughts..." Maybe they really could fly. 

Turning right, Hunter just keeps on driving. It was a gorgeous day and if they hadn't  been on the bike, jackets certainly wouldn't be needed - but that was his rule. Long pants, jackets and helmets. He might be a risk taker, but he never compromised on those. Even so, the wind was cool, keeping the two riders from feeling the full warmth of the sun. 

Time seemed to stand still for a while as curves were taken and hills were conquered. Eventually though, Hunter knows they needed to head to the ranch. Slowing at another intersection, he stops and sighs. "Gas gauge says we need to start aiming to the ranch. But I really am lost now so you're gonna have to tell me which way to go." 

He chuckles and reaches back to give Katie's leg a teasing tweak. "Unless you want to run out of gas and have a nice long walk." 

Miss Graceful

Heading down the road about as fast as they had come Katie once again enjoys herself very much. Though she wasn't scared of riding, or going fast Katie tightens her grib around Hunter slightly because she simply can. Leaning with Hunter around the twist and turns Katie can't help the small laugh that slipped out. Free...this is what it felt like, to be free and fly.

Coming to the intersection Katie looks left, and than looks right. She new left would be on the path back to the ranch but was she ready to go back? It wasn't a bad thing she wanted to have a little more fun and just get away from everything right?

   "Right and straight on till morning, go and never look back. Right sounds good to me."

Katie gives Hunter a little squeeze to indicate a little hug. Life was to short for regrets there was only looking forward. From something bad, comes something good and having Hunter to make her feel better was something good. 

   "Hey no its not my fault I like food. I'm big boned you know."

Dalton gives a cheese grin as she starts to sit up himself. As Dani starts to trip and whacks her food Dalton does all he can to try and catch her but it was to late and the way he was sitting there was just no way.

Blinking Dalton trys to hold a laugh in but can't. A chuckle slipping out he peeks over the one caution of the seat. Trying his best to not keep laughing he gasp for air.

   "Are...are you ok babe?"

Dalton know Dani must be royal embarrassed he would of been too for sure. But he wanted to make sure she was ok and didn't hurt her foot to horrible bad. Reaching his hand down and poking her belly Dalton does it a few times.

   "Hey...Hey you...Miss Graceful...ya gonna make it?"

Misty laughs as she takes a sip of her water and looks across the table at Jason. A twinkle in her eyes as she couldn't help but have a good time. Jason's sense of humor, his laugh was infectious and she couldn't help but have a good time. Dinner, no movie yet and she was already having a blast.

   "Ah so now your secret has been given away and if I get kicked under a long table, I'll know who it was."

Going back to her food Misty moves the salad and cheese around on he plate alone with some stabbing a peace of meat. Putting it in her mouth and savoring the taste once again. 

Hearing Jason's phone go off she looks at him inquisitively. Hearing it was her uncle she can't help but chuckle as she leans back in the chair. Reese always had great timing and this just proved it once again. Finishing the food that was in her mouth Misty whips her lips before speaking.

   "Maybe he saw us leave together and wants to have the talk with you!"

Just for Spite

Hunter laughs and steers the motorcycle in the opposite direction from where they'd come earlier. "You might not get lost, but I might, and I'm driving. So technically we can get lost." 

Driving amidst traffic for a few minutes, Hunter eventually gets onto a road that takes them out of town. It seemed to be a nice quiet road with some leisurely curves and hills. Perfect. Not knowing or caring if they were heading back towards the ranch or not, he shifts gears, pushing the bike to a higher speed. And within seconds, freedom was again felt. 

Bent forward, Hunter couldn't imagine anything that could feel better. Top speed on a motorcycle... with Katie hanging on to him. And he smiles. 

Eventually he's forced to slow as they approach a new intersection and he brings the bike to a stop, balancing it with one foot on the ground as the engine idles. "Okay, navigator... left or right now?" 

"I'm beginning to think food in general is your weakness," Dani teases. Grinning, she finally rolls off of Dalton, sliding from the couch. What she had in mind was gracefully rolling over to set her feet on the floor and stand up. But what happens in reality is one foot slamming into the coffee table and not only sending pain through her toes, but throwing her off balance as well. 

Just halfway to standing up, she gives a little wail before her arms and legs go flying. In the end, she's on her back on the floor between the couch and coffee table, wide-eyed and almost dazed. Until she starts to giggle. Then laugh. 

Covering up her red face, she can't regain enough control to even sit up, let alone face Dalton after that royally embarrassing move. Though her foot throbs, all she can do is lay there and laugh. 

As Jason's foot is bumped, he looks up quickly then grins at her apology. "It's okay. I'm used to it. Not because it's other people's fault though. It's me and my idiotically long legs." 

He slides his foot forward until he feels Misty's again, giving it a teasing nudge. "It does come in handy though when there's more people at a table and I can reach just about anybody but they don't know who just bumped them and nobody's brave enough to ask." 

It wasn't often that Jason was self-conscious about his height. Or... maybe it was just that he hid it well when it did bother him. Having someone like Misty never draw attention to it though did help, whether she knew it or not. 

Hearing his cell phone start to buzz, he rolls his eyes and retrieves his phone from his pocket. "It's the office..." Thinking for a moment, he shakes his head. "I'm off duty." Ignoring the call, he puts the phone back away again and picks up his fork once more. "Besides, if Reese found out I was at dinner with his niece, he might give me extra paperwork tomorrow just for spite." 

The shed was far from clean, though Alec had made a nice dent in the work at least. He'd taken Misty's note seriously and even though he'd slept later than planned, he'd started work as soon as he'd been awake enough. There was a bunch of old stuff out there... old tools... and mostly junk. It looked like maybe Carson had started cleaning it out at one time or maybe started to use it for his own tool shed, but for some reason, the project had been abandoned. A couple windows were broken... there was running water but work needed to be done on the pluming. At least the lights still worked, which had helped. After most of the day had been spent out there, Alec guessed maybe a third of the work cleaning was done. Maybe. It was a larger task than the backyard had been, for sure.

Now though, after he'd quit from sheer exhaustion, it was getting late in the evening and he was bent over the bathroom sink. The water swirling down the sink is crimson, stained from Alec's bleeding palm. He'd cut it on something out in the shed earlier - some rusty old tool or something - might have been that saw blade he'd found. No matter what it was, at the time, he'd just wrapped an old rag around his hand and kept going. But now that it had been a few hours, it was throbbing quite nicely. And once he'd started to clean it, it had started bleeding again - and much more than anticipated.

Grimacing as he tries to make sure he has all the dirt cleaned out, it really did hurt like the dickens. Even worse was that it had cut right through the old scar from Carson's knife. Reminded of the infection thereafter and how sick he'd been, Alec digs a little deeper with the washcloth, gritting his teeth against the pain.

Eventually shutting off the water, he grabs several tissues to hold against the wound to at least contain the blood while he hunted for some antiseptic or anything similar, and something to bandage with.

Half an hour later, sweat was running down Alec's neck - more from frustration than anything. He'd found the antiseptic - which had burned like no tomorrow - and he'd found a box of bandaids. But the bandaids apparently weren't enough, and after soaking several of them through, he'd finally given that up and folded several paper towels from the kitchen and taped them to his hand with some scotch tape he'd found in the drawer. It was a mess, for sure, but it was the best he could do without scouring the whole house and he really didn't feel comfortable looking through Misty's things for bandages.

Even more exhausted now, Alec finds himself on the couch, rather than at the refrigerator like his stomach wanted. He'd skipped lunch already but he was too tired from this stupid fiasco to try and find supper. He could survive until breakfast. For now... he just wanted a nap.