Gone

Continuing to just look at Hunter's let and than back up at Hunter BJ squints his eyes a little bit before giving a big nod. He new when people got hurt or sick they went to Angel and she always made them better. If anyone was to get hurt it was Angel BJ new to go to first and her fixing Hunter's leg just confirmed it more for him.

   "Angel is very good with fixing people. She makes everyone better."

Looking down at his truck again as it was mentioned one might be able to tell it was older. Perhaps played with a lot too. Peaces where glued back together, the pain was coming off, on of the doors was being held on with a twist tie, but there was a sense of great car to the truck as well. Giving a nod of his head BJ looking up at Hunter again.

   "Mmmmhmm....Sham gave it to me long time ago. She use to take care of me...but now she is gone. This is the only thing I have left of her."

Drawing quiet BJ goes over to his chair still holding the truck and pulls out the chair before climbing up on it and slidding the chair in a little bit the best he could. Putting the truck up on the table he pushes it twords Hunter a little bit.

   "Want to see it?"

Listing to Reese Katie paces the bunk house back and forth just taking in what Reese said. She couldn't help a slight feeling of guilt for leaving but it was something she had needed. If she had stayed who new what would of happened and she might have even got herself fired. It was because Reese gave her the time off she asked for that Katie would not mind coming back a little early.

   "Yeah Monday sounds great to me. I can definitely swing that."

Katie really was thankful for everything Reese had done for her. Even if some people might think its not fair or that personal life was getting into the way with work Katie thought her whole emotional situation was a little different than people would think and Reese understanding that really did help everything.

   "Reese, thanks a lot for everything. It's really been a good eye opening time away."

Monday

Mick grins and returns Rosetta's kiss, giving her shoulders a light rub. "Oh okay, I'll toss the salad and leave you alone." Heading to the fridge, he finds what he needs to start helping her with the rest of supper. 

Hunter grins and cocks his head, mimicking BJ. He'd figured out since coming here that the boy was extremely intelligent in some areas, while in other ways, he seemed to act younger than his eight-year age. He hadn't been able to figure it out, but hadn't asked anyone either. He didn't think the boy was slow, but something was different. "Oh, I had a little accident," he explains. "Hurt my knee, but Angel helped me so I'm gonna be okay."

Eying the toy truck, he quirks an eyebrow. "Now that is a cool truck. Is it one of your favorites?"

"Well hi, Katie." Reese was rather relieved she had called him so he wouldn't have to call her. He knew that she had been going through a pretty tough time and he hadn't wanted to put pressure on her. His recent conversation with Wyatt though, had caused him to think thinks through, perhaps more than he had before. 

Hearing what she had to say, he leans back in his chair, running a tired hand over his face. "I'm glad you called. We're, um... well, things are a little tight around here at the moment. I've held off just about as long as I can without... hiring anybody else." He didn't want Katie to think he wanted to replace her, but the truth of the matter was that the Elite was running out of options. 

"I'm not going to order you back by a certain date." Some of Wyatt's words run through Reese's mind. "Under the unique circumstances, I wouldn't feel right doing that." He really did genuinely care for Katie and what she was dealing with, and he didn't want to hinder her feeling better. "If, um.... if you need longer than a week, I understand. But we sure could use you soon. If you came back by Monday, I wouldn't have to find temporary help." That was just a few more days away - less than a week. Reese wasn't sure if Katie would agree to it or not, but it was the best he could do. 

Chatting

Katie laughs again and gives a nod. She'd be texting Hunter till they saw each other again for sure. She was going to miss him to much not to after seeing him every day and spending endless hours with him at the ranch. He was right though it wouldn't be long so maybe it would go quickly. 

...The rest of the day was good and Katie enjoyed her time with Hunter like always. As time moved though she new there were a few things she had to do and calling Reese as one. Giving Hunter a small kiss before leaving him Katie heads back to her bunk. 

Dialing Reese Katie waits till he finally answers the phone. Hearing his voice Katie gives a smile. It had been a while and honestly she had missed working and she missed her boss. He was always so kind to her and helped everyone out, how could anyone not like having Reese as a boss.

   "Hey Reese it's Katie."

She pauses for a second. In a way it was kind of strange calling and seeing if it was ok to come back to work. This was much different than just coming back from vacation for all she new her spot was filled and she could be on the low end of the totem pole all over again.

   "I was just calling about coming back to work. I'm doing a bit better and was hoping to return within a week, as long as thats ok with you. If you need me to come back sooner I can as well."

Investigating who was at the door BJ peeks down the hall. Not many people came to visit at the house though he was use to people coming and going, he still liked to know who was in the house at all times. Realizing Hunter had spotted him BJ backs up a little before turning in a circle to try and get away. Realizing there was no where to go he gives a little huff before smiling and acting completely cool. 

   "Whas  up Hunter?"

Coming over to him BJ looks at Hunter's leg and cocks his head a little bit before looking at Hunter. Holding his truck BJ fiddles with the one part of it absentmindedly as he just continued to look at Hunter's leg and than back up at him again.

   "What hoppened to your leg?"

As Mick comes up behind her Rosetta can't help but smile. She was just buttering the garlic bread and about to pop it in the oven to warm while the lesgana was in there too. Feeling the poke to the ribs she can't help but jump a little before looking over her shoulder at Mick.

   "If you stop tickling me it would be done a lot faster you know."

Rosetta gives a smile before leaning in to give Mick a kiss on the lips. It was moments like this that was perfect. There family might be different but it was there family and she loved every moment of it. God had given her what she had always wanted but thought she would never get and she was so very thankful for that. 

   "Dinner should be ready in about fifteen minutes. Could you grab the salad and veggies from the fridge and toss the salad for me?"

Notebook

Gazing into Katie's eyes, Hunter's gentle smile remains. He really had grown to care for and respect her over a short course of time. It felt a little strange at times. And at other times, it felt so natural, he wasn't sure what it was even like before he'd met her. His life had been okay. But it just felt as though Katie had found a missing piece that was slowly being put back into place.

Tucking a lock of hair behind her ear, he shakes his head a little. "We're only gonna be apart a week maybe... two tops. And I expect to be getting texts from you during that time," he teases. "And who knows.... maybe your boss will tell you to take a few more weeks and we won't have to travel separately at all." He doubted it, but it was worth the hope...

...The rest of the day is pleasant. Hunter finds himself alone for a little while, but occupies himself with the orphan kitten in the barn. His conversation with Mick keeps coming back though, along with continuing thoughts of the river, the voice, and his own past. Every day the thoughts became a little more persistent, but he just wasn't sure yet what to do with them in order to resolve whatever issue was going on inside of him. At moments, he wished he could just open up and spill his heart, while at other moments, he was quite content remaining silent and keeping his mixed feelings to himself.

By suppertime, he was ready to just chill for a while and quit thinking so much. It felt a little strange to be going to Mick and Rosetta's house. Even though it was right there next to the main building, it was still their private home. He'd told Katie he would meet her there, so after showering and changing clothes, he makes his way over, still hobbling slowly on his crutches. He doesn't even have to knock though, when Mick is already at the door.

"Hey, Hunter." Mick smiles and opens the door wider for him. "Come on in. Last I heard, the lasagna would be done in just a little bit."

Hunter grins as he enters the house and the scrumptious aroma hits his nose. "Mmm... I don't know if I can wait that long." Seeing into the kitchen, he gives a little wave to Rosetta. In a way, it felt odd being in here without Katie, but... for some reason... it also felt... like home. There was a peace here - the same as what the entire ranch had, just... more intense here. He really didn't feel on edge at all like he'd expected.

"Here, you can come get off your feet," Mick offers, showing Hunter to the dining room table.

"Oh, thanks." Hunter sets his crutches aside before settling in at the table. Glancing around the room, he took in the homey simplicity of it. It wasn't luxurious, but not dingy. Not extravagant but not too simple. It was... tasteful. Warm. Seeing movement by the hall, he catches sight of BJ. "Yo, Beej man, what up, dude?"

Chuckling, Mick sees Hunter is just fine, and he quietly returns to the kitchen. Coming up behind Rosetta at the stove, he stares over her shoulder just to bug her. He loved their family nights. He liked spending time with everybody else, but just being home for supper, walking around in his socks and having special moments with his wife and son... that made these evenings worth having. "Is it done yet?" He teasingly prods Rosetta in the ribs, knowing she was ticklish. "You've got three starving men in the house, you know."

Filling another trash bag and pulling out some more junk, Alec was on the last corner of the shed. It was a good task to tackle today, while his mind was quite a ways away... across town to be more exact. He knew that he would receive no confirmation one way or the other if Ryan had gotten the flowers. She might like them. She might hate them. He just didn't know. But he'd done his best to thank her for her kindness. Because of her, he didn't have to walk everywhere anymore, and he still had his little bit of saved money.

Reaching down behind an old garbage can, Alec retrieves a spiral notebook. It didn't look like it had been here as long as some of the other items - as if it had been tossed in here fairly recently, or set somewhere only to fall down behind other things out of reach.

Blowing off some dust, Alec flips through a couple pages out of curiosity. What he saw though, surprised him. He... recognized this. He had seen it somewhere before but... how? 

Reading some of the handwritten words, his eyes scan several more pages until he finds the poem that he had once recited to Ryan as they'd fooled around in the lake. This was the notebook he had found in an old locker at one of the Agency locations. But how on earth...

Just taking a few minutes to read a few more of the passages, the poems and deeply romantic lines were quite moving, really. But why was this here? How had it gotten here? And why here, of all places? Then all of a sudden it dawns on him. He hadn't known before who had written these things - but now... now he recognized the handwriting. Carson had seriously written this? He had really penned such deep thoughts? Such romantic thoughts? It was very hard to believe. Yet Alec knew that this handwriting was indeed his brother's. He'd almost think that Carson had copied these passages, yet there were too many scribbles, crossed out places and eraser marks for that. No... it was obvious that these works were original. All these years, Alec had never known whose poetry he had memorized. To discover now it was Carson's was quite a surprise. But... how had the notebook ended up here again? That was a mystery. 

Turning towards the trash can, Alec aims, but something stops him. Looking at the notebook again, he thinks for a moment, then sets it aside. He wondered if Misty even knew about it. If she did, she probably wouldn't ever want to see it again after what Carson had done. And yet... maybe he just wanted to read a little more of it himself. 

"...and we can't handle it all!" Wyatt throws up his arms as he paces Reese's office. "Sapphire is great, but when you start putting her in the field with me instead of here to back us up with data, something's wrong." 

Reese sighs deeply and leans back in his chair, trying not to get as riled as his son. "I'm sorry, Wyatt. What do you want me to do? We're swamped. Rick hasn't given Jason the go-ahead yet for full-time field work and Katie's still out. That leaves us two agents down and I can't help it."

Wyatt sets his hands on his hips and takes a deep breath, calming himself. Today had not been a good day. It wasn't Sapphire's fault that a routine check across town had ended up in a foot-chase down by the railroad tracks. He'd ended up with a skinned knee and bruised shoulder, but they'd gotten the guy - not Agency, but a drug dealer at least, so they had something to haul him in for. At the same time though, it was frustrating not having someone who was used to that kind of work. They depended on Sapphire's knowhow back here - but Reese was right... being shorthanded was the problem. "When's Katie coming back?"

Reese shakes his head. "Not sure. I was hoping I'd hear from her by now. If I don't by tomorrow, I'll call her." 

Wyatt knew Katie had he reasons for leaving, but he was also anxious for her to return to work. "Yeah, okay. I just..."

"What?" 

"Oh, nothing."

Reese cocks his head. "What's on your mind?"

Wyatt sighs. "I guess it just seems like people around here let their personal lives interfere with their work a lot. I know it happens and I'm not trying to be mean, I just... I know Katie and Jason are two of your favorite agents - I get it and I'm okay with that. But it just seems like there are others here who work a whole lot harder than they do but get a far worse deal out of it." 

Reese understood what his son was saying, and he knew that there was a very fine line there that he had to find almost every day. "Well... then I guess I'm glad you don't have a whole heap of problems that keep you from your work. I'm sorry it feels unfair. Maybe it is. But Jason can't help his injury, and I already approved Katie's time off. I'll let you take some vacation days if you want some time off too." 

"No..." Wyatt shrugs. "I don't want to leave you in a bind. I suppose I'm just venting." 

"I know. We're all under a lot of stress right now. Hang in there... I'm hoping things will change soon." 

Lips

Katie can't help the even bigger smile that spread across her lips. Looking into Hunter's eyes she could tell he really meant what he said. It made her feel good and though she was nervous about going home and seeing people he'd given her the confidence that things would work out how they should.

   "No trouble till you get back ok, got it. No getting hurt while I am away either, I don't think I could kiss you again if I new one of my family members lips had been on yours."

Giving a laugh Katie takes her free hand and pulls Hunter closer to her. Letting her lip brush his for a moment Katie backs away before coming closer again and giving a longer deeper kiss this time. Just letting the moments mix together time was endless at this point and Katie didn't care.

Finally pulling away and setting her head against his Katie closes her eyes for a long second. She had so many emotions that ran through her right now and it was a different feeling. She didn't know what they all where but she could tell what most of them were. 

   "You are way to good of a kisser for that to happen, so...yeah."

Opening her eyes again and looking into Hunter's Katie just study's them for a long moment. Letting her hand run through his hair at the back of his neck. If someone had told her in a month Hunter and herself would of gotten closer, and started dating she would have called them crazy. But it had happened, and it really was amazing.

   "I'm going to miss you Hunter."

Jealous

At Katie's comment, Hunter's eyebrows rise with a bit of surprise. Furrowing his brow, he cocks his head until she looks at him. 

"I'm only gonna tell you this once." His fingers curl, interlocking with hers. "When I decide I like a girl, I mean it. I don't go around calling everybody my girlfriend, and as far as I'm concerned, there's no difference between here and Nevada." He wasn't putting on airs for Katie's family here, nor would he care what anybody thought back home. "So as long as you don't change your mind..." 

Leaning in closer, he smiles before letting his lips brush hers then return for a passionate, deep kiss. Drawing back, his eyes twinkle. "I'm all yours and proud of it. Just don't get in any trouble til I get home. I'd be jealous." 

Girly

As Axel wonders over Ryan gives a small grin at his comment. He was always there, he always had her back, any of there backs and he never complained about it. Axel fit into the roll well of being the leader of the group and no one minded. He was the one with the best shoulder on his head, and Ryan on days like today was thankful for that.

   "Yeah, they sure don't huh?"

Looking back over at the flowers for a second Ryan can't help but second guess herself. Had fixing Alec's bike yesterday really been a good idea? She'd been trying t be friendly and nice, was there more to it or had she led Alec on to thinking there was more? Ryan couldn't help the thump in her heart as she thought about it. 

   "Maybe they'll quiet down in a little bit. If they don't thank you can go ahead and tell them to knock it off."

Turning back to the car Ryan just study's it for a long moment almost like where she had forgotten what she'd been doing. Giving a sigh though Ryan leans over the engine again starting her work. Not looking back to Axel again she does call over her shoulder.

   "Thanks Axel."

He was probley the only one that saw how girly she was underneath everything. No one else as the shop saw it or even new and Ryan would like to keep it that way. It was just easier to work just being one of the guys. It's how it always had been and how she'd like to keep it going.

Katie gives a nod to Mick with a smile. She'd stop by the office a little later and see if Rosetta wanted her to bring anything. She new she didn't have to but it might be nice for her to just have one less thing to worry about cooking if Katie could help out. It would make her feel good too if she could help a little bit.

Looking to Hunter Katie's expression changes just a little bit. Thinking about leaving Hunter for a little bit so she could head back to work. She wish they could go back together but Hunter had to continue to heal and maybe being here a little bit longer would make the process a little faster.

   "Yeah I have to call Reese and talk it over with him. I'm thinking about heading back in a week or two as long as its ok with him."

Looking down at Hunter's hand Katie runs her finger over his own and around his palm. She wanted to continue to see Hunter and she hoped that it would work out that way. She really did care about him.

   "It's gonna be rough leaving you for a little bit though. Did you still want to see me after we get back? Because...I...I'd like to try and make it work."

Knock it off

Interested in the little commotion over Ryan, Axel pauses a moment in his work on a pickup truck and glances over at her. Flowers, huh? He had a feeling that even if Ryan was a tomboy, she probably still appreciated such a sweet gesture. Though the other guys were prone to merciless teasing, he refrains, just grinning a little at her reddened cheeks. 

When she turns and catches his eye though, something startles him. Something wasn't right. Her smile wasn't... complete. Had he been wrong? Did she really not like receiving flowers? He almost wondered for a moment if perhaps things were not good between her and Tal. Last he'd heard, things were going great, but... that look in her eye sure said something else was happening here. Those flowers were from Tal, right? 

Turning back to his work, Axel tinkers in the engine, trying to get his mind off of Ryan's personal business. It was none of his nevermind, and he had no right to be trying to figure it out. It might just be his imagination anyway. But as he glances over his shoulder to see her putting the flowers in water, that same feeling came back. It wasn't necessarily that something was wrong... but it wasn't right either. 

Chided, the other guys just grin, Jed letting out another low whistle before a rag from Leo lands on his head. "We don't get any entertainment around here," he complains. "We can't pass up this perfect opportunity to razz our girl!" 

"Right right," Miles agrees. "It's not every day this oil and grease mingles with the sweet aroma of roses." He puts his hands over his heart and bats his eyes before quickly returning to work before Ryan really did beat him up.

Needing an extra tool, Axel wanders over to the work bench behind Ryan's bay to rummage through one of the toolboxes. "Children," he mutters teasingly under his breath. "They just don't know when to leave a girl alone, do they?" 

Finding the wrench he was looking for, he turns around to walk past Ryan, pausing just briefly at her car. "I'll tell 'em to knock it off if you want me to," he offers quietly.

Mick shakes his head. "Nah, you don't need to bring anything." He pauses in thought. "Well... I guess you might want to ask Rosetta." He chuckles. "Since she's the one cooking." Rising from the table, he gives Katie and Hunter a nod. "I'll see you later then. Say... seven o'clock for supper." 

Once Hunter is left alone with Katie again at the table, he gives her hand a returning squeeze before turning his head to look at her. Giving her a little smile, he leans in to place a soft kiss on her lips. "So..." He'd caught what she'd said about going back to work, and he'd figured out that she'd probably be leaving before he could. They hadn't talked much about it thought - maybe both were just avoiding it. 

"...calling the boss man, huh? When are you planning to leave?" 

Kick Butt

Working like normal the day before still was in Ryan's mind but it wasn't thought of as much. When Alec wasn't around she was able to push the thoughts from her head it seemed just when he was around it was a lot harder. Now though it was tucked away and the good deed went unknown for now. She'd done something nice, and it was one less thing to make Alec come back.

   "Hey Mile's your slacking....come on now man..."

Ryan's words trail off as she looks up at the delivery man. It was an odd scene to think about. No one ever delivered anything here unless it was some car parts. Hearing they were looking for her Ryan's eyes widen just a little bit before she finally notices what he was holding. Flowers? Her friend thought was Tal and she thought it was super sweet.

Taking the flowers and looking down at the little card Ryan's smile faded slightly. Her heart beat in her chest very loudly though. Had Alec really send her flowers? He'd never done that before, this was something completely new and it took her off guard.

   "Umm..thanks."

Turning Ryan could feel her cheeks go slightly red. She felt valnarable, and embarrassed in front of the other guys. Letting her eyes lock with Axel's for a second Ryan wondered if he new what she was thinking while the others were having fun with the whole thing and making there comments.

Not saying anything else and looking away Ryan goes to her table and grabs an empty jar. Pouring some of her bottled water into it Ryan sticks the flowers. She might as well enjoy them now that she had them. There was no point in throwing something this pretty away. 

Turning around and still hearing all the guys Ryan sets her hands on her hips looking at each of them. Quirking and eyebrow she shakes her head and rolls her eyes.

   "Yeah, and I can still kick you butts any day so if you know whats good for you get back to work."

Hearing Mick's invitation Katie gives a big smile. She liked spending time with her Uncle, Aunt, and cousin. It was a special time and it was always very enjoyable and peaceful. To turn that opportunity down would be rather silly, specially when she would be leaving again soon.

   "Yeah, thats sounds great to me. Only thing I have going for me today is spending time with Hunter and giving Reese a call about going back to work."

Katie had talked to Hunter about heading back to Nevada a little bit the other day. She wanted to continue there relationship and hoped it would work out while he was still recovering here. Though they hadn't talked about it much she hoped maybe soon they could.

   "Is there anything you want us to bring? Salad, a dessert? "

Looking to Hunter and taking his hand Katie gives it a little squeeze as she smiles. This was a confirmation to her that her family really did like Hunter and she was happy. She didn't know much about his family but she could only guess it wasn't good. And if that was so she was happy her family accepted him.

Even when you lie

Smiling broadly, Jeff looks over at Katie and winks. "And thank you for being you." 

He knew that this trip had been particularly difficult for her, but was so glad she'd come. He didn't know if she was going to leave having accomplished what she wanted, but he could see a spark in her eye again. It might be small and maybe it was still a bit deep, but it was there, and he would pray that it would surface again so she could once again be happy and live life to the fullest. 

Making it back to the ranch, Jeff was a bit tired, but feeling well enough to take care of Hawk then join everyone for supper. Sitting with Katie and Hunter tonight was enjoyable, then when the meal was over he knew he needed to go rest for the evening or he'd be paying for it tomorrow. 

Hunter's glad to spend more time with Katie after supper, telling her about the kitten, but keeping his conversation with Mick to himself. His mind was still quite full and he was still processing a lot of things - too much to be verbalized yet. He does push most of it aside for a while though, enabling him to enjoy a card game then a short walk with Katie before calling it a night.

And as the day passes on to the next, the sunshine is born once more, giving hope that darkness cannot last forever... 

"...about once a week, Rosetta, BJ and I have a family night at home, and we'd like to invite you both over for supper tonight." Lunch had just been finished, but Mick had caught Katie and Hunter before they'd left the dining room.

Hunter's eyebrows rise slightly, a bit surprised at the invitation. Mick had just said that it was a family night. It made sense for him to ask Katie over, but him too? He glances to the side at Katie. "Well with a bum leg, it's not like I've got very many plans... I'm okay with that, if you are." 

Mick's eyes drift between the two, waiting for a solid answer so he could tell Rosetta. He'd been thinking a lot about Hunter, especially after yesterday, and he just felt that this was something he should do - invite the young man to be closer to their family. Everyone needed a family, even if they weren't connected by blood. 

Axel grins a little, knowing good and well that if any of the guys had sensed Ryan was in any kind of trouble, all of them would have pounced on Alec full force. Nobody bothered their Ryan - that's just the way it was. 

Wondering if there was any more to what Ryan was feeling, Axel remains where he is for just a few more seconds. Her next words didn't surprise him, and he did feel badly for her. He knew it had to be difficult after all she'd been through with Alec. He'd gained bits and pieces from her, Eli and Carson along the way - enough to know most of the story. 

He nods slowly, and gives her a reassuring glance. "You're welcome. If you need anything, just let me know." Concentrating on his wrench again, he turns and wanders back to his own bay to finish his job...

The next day in the shop, things were busy, but pretty normal. The air was full of friendly bantering, most of which was won by Axel's quick wit, but sometimes Leo got his own upper hand. Usually the topic revolved around who was working on what, and who was going to finish first today. Never a day went by without some kind of competition - which was most likely to be won by either Ryan or Axel, the reigning queen and king of the shop, as it were. 

The only time things seem to be interrupted is late morning when a delivery car pulls up and a man emerges with a gift in hand. Wandering to one of the open bays, he looks around, confused for a few moments before clearing his throat, trying to be heard above the rattle of an air compressor and clanging of tools. "Um... I'm looking for a...." He checks his clipboard. "Ryan McKade?" 

Realizing Ryan was the only woman in sight, he automatically approaches her, noticing her name on her shirt and sighing with relief. "Hi, I have a delivery for you." 

Handed to her was a dainty bouquet of three long-stem roses - one pink, one yellow and one red. Tied together with a red ribbon, a note was also attached, handwritten by the gift-giver.

You're beautiful, even when you lie. 

Thanks.

A whistle comes from Jed's direction, while Leo gives a teasing cat call. "Ooooh, flowers for Ryan," Miles teases. "Tal's getting all mushy on us." 

Hard

Katie can't help as she smile grows just a little more. Her and Jeff they were always close and now she new why, but even before that there just had always been something there maybe it was the something a father and daughter were meant to have. If she had to pick someone to be her secret father though she would always have picked Jeff. Though she still did love Jay and looked up to him as a dad, knowing the truth explained a lot.

   "Well if you did move closer I would love that. Even if it was like a split thing I would get to see you more than I do now and just thinking about that makes me really happy."

As the soft wind blows it warms Katie and if they wernt riding at the moment she'd give Jeff a big hug. She was happy she made the desition to come here. This was her safe haven, this was home and Katie couldn't think of a better place. Maybe she hadn't worked through as much as she wanted too but she was getting there and feelings were slowly becoming easier to feel. It didn't seem like she was high wire anymore and the craving to have emotions fed to her were slowly going away.

   "Thanks Dad, for...just being you!"

Continuing to tinker with the car she had been working on it seemed she was just going a little slower now but she couldn't help it that her mind was else where. Alec coming, his words, giving her a kiss on the cheek it was just a million thoughts running through her head but she always came back to one thing, and that was though all this stuff with Alec is happing she had Tal, she loved Tal, and he was what was important.

Not even realizing someone had come over to her car Ryan gives a little jump but recovered quickly looking to Axel and giving a small smirk. He was like the dad in the family shop and no one seemed to mind. He always like to make sure everyone was ok, and doing alright, surviving, and in good moods. 

   "Yeah, Yeah I'm alright. Alec just needed his bike to be looked at thats all. He didn't bother trying to start anything else. Witch it probley a good thing so I didn't have to sick you guys on him."

Turning back to the car for a second Ryan new that Axel would be able to see there was more there. He was always like that able to look deeper and see what people meant, or how they felt it was just this gift he had. Though he would never prey he new it was there. Looking back at him Ryan new her eyes would betray her.

   "It's just hard still seeing him. I mean, I do ok, but ya its just hard. Thanks for asking though Axel."

Leftover

"You're more important than where I live." Jeff's answer comes quickly as he glances over to Katie. Yes, he'd miss it here. He'd miss it dearly. This ranch was his life. If he didn't live here, he didn't know what he'd do to make a living, and not being around the family or horses every day would really be hard. But he'd do it if it would keep him in a close relationship with his daughter. 

"This is my home but... things and places are just temporary." His eyes drift back to the clearing. Nothing in this world lasted forever. That was something he'd experienced over and over. "Yes, I'd miss it here," he finally admits aloud. "But it would be worth it if I saw you more often." 

He eventually turns Hawk around to head back towards the trail. "Something to think about," he concludes. He had no idea whether or not he'd end up moving, but at least now he knew Katie wouldn't mind if he did. 

Back at the ranch, Hunter finds himself on the porch swing of the main building, the kitten in his lap. He wasn't sure when Katie and Jeff would be back, but whenever they were, they were both bound to come to supper, so if he stayed here, he should see them. 

With both legs up on the swing, Hunter leans back and closes his eyes, letting himself sway back and forth just a little. His mind takes him back to his conversation with Mick as he continues to mull over everything they'd discussed. 

Soon though, the warm breeze had put both him and the kitten to sleep. 

As Ryan comes back into the garage and starts working, it would seem as though everything were normal. The guys were busy bantering and talking about hanging out after work, and the clock was being watched so they could get out of here. 

It doesn't take long though for Axel to have made it over to Ryan. Leaning against the car, he uses a rag to clean off one of his wrenches. He keeps his voice quiet and casual simply so he would draw no attention from the others. "You alright?" His eyes remain on his wrench. He wasn't going to pry, but he did want to make sure she was okay. Alec had come and gone, and it appeared without incident, but something just felt... off. 

Standing at the gas pump in town, Alec fills up his bike. Since he didn't have to pay for repairs, he actually had money for this now. He'd also have leftover. 

Glancing across the street, he tries to convince himself it was a bad idea. But deep down, his mind was already made up. He knew where just a little of that extra money would go. 

Miss

Hearing Alec's words it sends a pang to Ryan's heart. Alec still loved her, he was having a hard time letting her go, she'd known that but there was something about how it said it now, it was different. She couldn't explain it but it was different and she could tell.

As Alec comes near to her and places the kiss on her cheek Ryan was a bit surprised but she could feel the chill. She hadn't been expecting that and it was...soft. Much different than she would be use to with Alec, there was just something different even if she couldn't put her finger on it.

Not able to say anything maybe it was best seeing as Ryan didn't know what to say. Just watching Alec walk away Ryan waits to go back into the shop for a moment as she trys to compose herself. Her cheek felt warm and her eyes burned a little. Taking in a deep breath Ryan cleans her thoughts, she had to, she still had more work to do.

Returning to the shop Ryan say nothing else to the guys but just gets back to the next car that rolls in. She had more work to do a little time to do it. Not to mention if she threw herself into work maybe no one would notice the small tear in her eye.

Katie gives a big smile to Jeff. She liked hearing about her mom even if it did make her sad a little bit that she had left them. It was nice though knowing about her mom and being able to at least get to know her though him.

 Hearing that Jeff had been thinking about moving to Nevada Katie perks up a little bit. That sounded like a good idea to her. She missed her dad very much and if he was closer...that would be nice.

   "Like you really think you could smother me? I would love it if you moved closer. I miss you very much! But...wouldn't you miss it here? This is your home."

Dang it

Alec shakes his head before glancing back over his shoulder. "Right." He knew good and well Ryan had fixed his motorcycle, but there was obviously no arguing with her. 

Wandering back to the counter, he retrieves the keys and stops for one last moment to look at Ryan. It was the wrong thing to do, because tears suddenly spring into his eyes before he can stop them. Oh how he hated himself for the choices he'd made. 

"Dang it, Ryan." His voice was but a hoarse whisper. "Why do I have to love you so much?" 

Stepping towards the door, his feet seem to have a will of their own as he stops right beside her. And in the blink of an eye, he'd planted a soft kiss on her cheek. 

Turning quickly, he exits the building and aims for his bike.


Jeff grins, knowing Katie was right - if Hunter did her wrong, he'd have this whole ranch on his tail. He seemed too smart for that though.

As quietness lingers while they ride, the last thing Jeff expected was for Katie to choose the new subject that she did. A lump rises in his throat, and he fiddles with his reins for a few moments. He knew exactly what she was referring to. Was it that obvious where his mind had been.

"Yeah..." A weary sort of sigh slips out before he can stop it. Spotting a clearing along the trail, he turns Hawk towards it, stopping just short of the small field of tall grass and wild flowers. The sun shone down warmly on the scene, creating an almost surreal picture.

Leaning forward to rest his arms on the saddlehorn, Jeff's eyes roam the clearing. "Some days are harder than others," he admits. "Especially when I forget I'm surrounded by family and I get to feeling lonely." He couldn't help it that there were days it just didn't matter how much family he had around or how much they loved him. There was just a hole in his heart that left him lonely in ways the others here couldn't remedy.

Watching a butterfly flit from flower to flower, he gains a small smile. "She would have loved it here. Your mother, I mean. I think she would have taken to the ranch just like you have."

Swallowing hard, he looks down for a moment, finding it just a little difficult to keep a handle on his emotions. "I'm so glad she left me you," he continues softly. "I've even thought about moving to Nevada just so I could be closer to you but... I wouldn't want you to feel smothered."

Talking

Hearing Alec's comment Ryan looks up at him and blinks. It would seem as though everything she just had told him meant nothing and everything was not heard. Letting his eyes lock with his for a second Ryan can feel her heart beat even faster than it was as she smells the sweet smile of Alec's soap, or it could have been his shampoo.

   "I still don't know what your talking about. I did as you asked and looked over your bike and there is nothing wrong."

Feeling his hand on her face Ryan's instinct was to lean her head into it but she did her best not to do so. She shouldn't, she couldn't, no She was with Tal she reminds herself once more and she was happy, she was safe with him and things were good.

As Alec takes a step back Ryan was glad in a way. She didn't know how much longer she could stand like that with Alec. Him stepping away had been the breaker and Ryan was happy, she never wanted to cheat on Tal. He was to good of a guy for that, and she cared for him way to much.

   "Umm...Your welcome and don't worry about paying me back, it was just a simple evaluation."

Danger

As Ryan comes around the counter to stand next to him, Alec can feel an awkwardness rise. He shouldn't have come. He never should have come here, and he knew it. As she explains the job slip, her words fall on deaf ears, and his eyes have no intention of looking at what she was showing him. Instead, he's caught gazing at her face... listening to her voice... watching her stand there with graceful confidence. He had no idea what she was saying about his bike. He was overcome with confusion, awe, gratefulness, and more humility than he thought he'd ever have. He had broken this woman's heart and harmed someone she loved... yet here she was, having just done one of the nicest things for him. 

Not caring what she'd just tried to explain, he reaches out with a gentle finger under her chin to turn her face towards him. Staring into her gaze, his eyes were the eyes of a broken man, overwhelmed by her kindness. "I thought nothing would ever amaze me again," he mentions softly. His thumb moves to brush her cheek lightly. "But you just can't help it, can you?" 

Only now does he realize that his heart is racing. His arms ached to hold Ryan. His lips burned to kiss hers. His soul cried out for her companionship. 

Sensing the danger of his position, Alec quickly lets his hand drop and he retreats a couple steps before turning his back on her. Setting his hands on his hips, he takes a deep breath, letting it out slowly. His eyes stare out the window as he tries to keep his thoughts together. 

"Thank you," he finally concludes. "You've been most kind. If I can ever repay you... let me know." 

No Idea

Looking back at Alec Ryan lifts an eyebrow at him and his words. Holding out the paperwork to him most of the boxed were check as nothing was wrong. Except for one and that was a dirty filter that was replaced but it said no payment was needed because Ryan had dumped something on it to make it dirty.

   "I have no idea what your talking about and you can't pay for something that wasn't broken. If you look at the paperwork there is clearly says nothing is wrong."

Ryan comes around the counter and moves closer to Alec pointing at the paper work. Going through each thing showing her nothing was wrong. Her heart raced as she stood next to Alec but she did her best to ignore it.

   "So anyways you can take your bike now. There's nothing else I can do with a bike thats already fixed. Sorry Alec."

I can't

Alec would never admit he was bored out of his mind while waiting. After a couple hours, he'd gone through all the magazines, read all the posters on the wall, and had even dozed off a time or two. What he really wanted was to go in the garage and see how things were going, but he refrained when he remembered the looks he'd received.

Finally when Ryan comes back, Alec stands up quickly, anxious to hear what she'd found out. But hearing what she had to say, he blinks. Furrowing his brow, for several moments, he was totally confused.

"But it... I..." Then he realizes just what Ryan was saying. Taken aback, his eyes widen slightly, and for a moment, his awkwardness flees, freeing up his tongue.

"Ryan, there was something wrong with that bike and I know it..." He shakes his head, bewildered at her actions. "How long did you spend on it? I have to pay for it. I can't let you just do this for nothing." His eyes lock with hers, his gaze full of questions.

Wast

Waiting for Alec to push the Ryan watches him for a long moment as her stomach did flip flops. She didn't want it to show so the others saw it she did her best to hide it but just having Alec here...remembering the time they spent together sends chills down her spine.

Watching as Alec than walks away Ryan lets out a long sigh before turning. Feeling eyes on her still Ryan looks around the room at the other guys that were there as well. Rolling she eyes and crossing her arms she looks at each of them.

   "What...what do you want from me? He needs his bike fixed and your the ones who told me to do it."

Grumbling under her breath Ryan turns and goes back to her work on the car. It wasn't till a few hours later Ryan got to Alec's bike and started working on it. Tinkering with a few different things and figuring out a few other things Ryan finally was finished with the bike.

Taking her rag and whiping her hands off Ryan goes back to the waiting room. Seeing Alec she stands there for a moment before shaking her head. She shouldn't look at him for to long, staring, gawking, no she shouldn't at all. Clearing her throat to get his attachen she puts the paper down before jotting a few things.

   "Well, I'm sorry I wasted a few hours of your time but I can't fix your bike."

Ryan hesitates for a few second searching Alec's face. He still looked so sad, so thing...he still looked horrible and it wrenched her heart. Even if she wasn't dating him she'd never wish anything bad on him and he was not doing good at all.

   "...Because as far as I can see there is nothing wrong with it. Started up fine and everything looks great to me. Maybe it just wanted to give you a fit, and it could use a bit of gas."

Just another customer

Alec was glad that Ryan wasn't being offish. Not that he expected her to, but... maybe he'd been a little worried about that. Besides, she could probably just as easily pass on this job to one of the guys, right? So... her offering to look at the bike herself was... a good thing?

Ryan's prompt to "make himself comfortable" brings another little smirk to his lips as he drops his gaze again, rubbing the back of his neck awkwardly. "Yeah..." He bites his tongue from the comment that was dying to be let loose, and he clears his throat, choking down the nervous laugh. 

"Yeah, I'll bring her around and wait." Slowly raising his eyes again, they meet Ryan's with an intense stare. Had she really missed him? "I've got all the time in the world..." 

Turning quickly, he goes back outside. Guiding his bike to the open bay, he does as instructed, careful not to get in anybody else's way. He could feel the eyes on him and knew that he was not welcome here. As a customer yes, but not as a friend. 

Wiping some more sweat from his brow, it's only now that he realizes he must look a sight after pushing his bike this whole way. Oh well. Tucking his hands in his pockets, he trudges back to the waiting area. He remembered a time when he'd hang around inside the garage and chat or sit on the work bench while Ryan worked, just to tease her or simply watch her work. Today though... today he was just another customer.

Comfortable

Taking a few more step farther into the waiting room Ryan moves behind the front desk and gives a slight nod to Alec. Though she thought it was odd there was a problem with his bike that he couldn't figure out. Alec was good when it came to his own things and she wondered could he really not figure it out or was it a good reason to come visit.

   "I can take a look at it for you and see if I can find whats wrong. It might take a little bit though I have to finish up with the car I am working on and than I can look at yours."

Seeing Alec smile just a little bit Ryan could tell he was trying and it felt a little awkward but at the same time it was kind of not that bad. Clearing her throat and writing a few things down on the paper Ryan looks up at Alec once again.

   "You can bring your bike around to bay three if you want than if you want to make yourself comfortable you can."

Missed

Realizing that the task was suddenly on Ryan, Axel rolls his eyes. These guys were impossible. "Hang on, I'll..." Too late. Ryan had taken it. Axel throws Jed a withering look only to receive a blank stare in response.

Alec really hadn't expected to be waited upon by Ryan. Maybe he'd hoped he might see her... just for a moment... which might explain why he hadn't chosen an auto shop closer to home. But as Ryan approaches and smiles, he can't help it that his stomach does a flip. How many times had he shown up here to take her to lunch? How many times had he been greeted right here in front of all the guys, with a hug and a kiss? Today there could be... nothing. And though Ryan smiled, she was doing her job, and that was it.

Lowering his gaze, Alec rolls a pebble around under his foot. "Um... it's just my bike." He thumbs to the parking lot. "I can't figure out what's wrong with it and... just wanted an estimate I guess. I can't.... well, I can't afford much."

He looks back up to her again, trying to give her a small smile, but not knowing if he succeeded. Oh how he missed her.

Suprised

Letting out a groan as she works on the car Ryan glances to the side at Miles before looking back to the engine. Shaking her hear a grin spread across her lips. She could be rough even when she was kidding around and sometimes that was the best thing about her.

   "Oh sure and you guys would love it if I did turn it down so you could call me a quiter thinking I couldn't handle my work, hummmmm...?"

Going back to the car Ryan tightens the nut she had been working on before standing up and walking over to her table putting her wrench down. Not turning to look out at the customer Ryan picks up her notebook and pulls off some paper grabbing a pen. 

   "Alright Alright, I'll grab it."

Starting to write things down on the new ticket its not till Ryan is out the door that she looks up. Seeing Alec she is a bit surprised but she smiles anyways looking at him. She wondered why he was here and in a way she hoped it wasn't just to see her.

   "Hey Alec, hows it going? What can I do for you?"

Customer Service

Jeff grins, knowing Katie was right - if Hunter did her wrong, he'd have this whole ranch on his tail. He seemed too smart for that though.

As quietness lingers while they ride, the last thing Jeff expected was for Katie to choose the new subject that she did. A lump rises in his throat, and he fiddles with his reins for a few moments. He knew exactly what she was referring to. Was it that obvious where his mind had been?

"Yeah..." A weary sort of sigh slips out before he can stop it. Spotting a clearing along the trail, he turns Hawk towards it, stopping just short of the small field of tall grass and wild flowers. The sun shone down warmly on the scene, creating an almost surreal picture. 

Leaning forward to rest his arms on the saddlehorn, Jeff's eyes roam the clearing. "Some days are harder than others," he admits. "Especially when I forget I'm surrounded by family and I get to feeling lonely." He couldn't help it that there were days it just didn't matter how much family he had around or how much they loved him. There was just a hole in his heart that left him lonely in ways the others here couldn't remedy. 

Watching a butterfly flit from flower to flower, he gains a small smile. "She would have loved it here. Your mother, I mean. I think she would have taken to the ranch just like you have." 

Swallowing hard, he looks down for a moment, finding it just a little difficult to keep a handle on his emotions. "I'm so glad she left me you," he continues softly. "I've even thought about moving to Nevada just so I could be closer to you but... I wouldn't want you to feel smothered." 

Lydia smiles broadly, her eyes twinkling. "I would like very much to do this again. Thank you... for everything." 

It didn't take long to drive back to the house, and Lydia returns to the kitchen to look after her bread. Today's baking had been for a needy family in church, and she wanted to include a few cookies too. 

Back in the bedroom, Jared was sitting up just a little. He'd made it to the bathroom and back on his own - a feat worthy of pride. He wasn't all that proud today though. He felt too low for that. But... he'd left the curtains open just how Grace had set them earlier. 

Hearing car doors, steps on the porch and the front door, he knows his mother and Grace must be back. Sighing, he lets his eyes fall shut once again. If he was Grace, he wouldn't want to come see a moping body like him. 

Pushing his motorcycle across the parking lot, Alec pauses for a moment to wipe the sweat from his brow. It had not been a short walk, made even longer by pushing his bike the whole way. He knew he could have asked Jason for help, but he hadn't really wanted to impose. He'd been working on his motorcycle but something was still wrong with the engine and it was beyond his knowledge. He didn't have a whole lot of money, but he had a little since Misty had just paid him again, and maybe it would be enough to at least get an estimate and maybe get the repairs started. But it wasn't really the money or time that made him hesitate, seeing the open bays where cars were being worked on.

Bypassing the urge to go that way, he brings his bike around front instead and sets it on its kickstand before going inside. It must have been a slow day because the customer waiting area was empty, as well as the front desk. Ringing the bell brought no one, and Alec glances to the glass door into the garage. He wondered for a moment if he should just turn around and go to the other auto shop another eight blocks away. But...

Straightening from the engine in front of him, Axel flexes his hand, feeling a little tingle in his fingers. He hadn't told anyone about it... he'd hoped it would go away. But it hadn't, and he knew he needed to go see Misty again.

Turning to find a different wrench, his eyes happen to glance over to the door. Stopping, his eyebrows rise and he automatically bristles.

Alec pushes the door open and waits, glancing around the garage. His eyes stray past a couple guys he recognized before landing on Ryan, who looked as though she was deeply involved in an engine problem. This was definitely a bad idea.

"Somebody want to help a customer?" Axel suggests loudly.

Jed scoots out from under his car, not bothering to look at the door. "Ryan's closest!" he hollers teasingly. "I'm sure she needs a break anyway."

"You just want to win the race," Miles quips. "Come to think of it, so do I. Ryan! Customer service is needed!"

Do you

Continuing to ride and hearing her dad's approval Katie was happy about that. She wasn't sure what the future would hold or how long her and Hunter would be together. It could be forever, or only a few years. The only thing Katie did know was that she was happy now and would take one day at a time.

   "Thanks Dad. Hunter knows if he ever hurt me there would be quiet a few people who'd beat him to a pulp."

Riding on Katie falls quiet again but glances at her dad once and a while. Seeing the sad look in his eye she new what he was thinking about. She'd seen that look before and had been able to connect it with the thoughts of her mother. How it must hurt for him, the pain she felt was a pain of not knowing, she never new her mother so she didn't know what to miss. But his pain was from lose, because he new what he was missing.

   "Do you think about her a lot?"

Listing to Lydia Grace continues to smile and at some parts her lips give a little frown too. Some things were sad to talk about and some where happy. But through it all Grace could see the love in Lydia's eyes and how much of a big soul this woman had no matter what she went through. God certainly had his hand in her life.

   "I think you right. God did have this whole thing maped out long before we even new what was going to happen."

Taking the last sip of her coffee and setting the cup down Grace sits back and lets out a long sigh. Talking with Lydia had really felt good and almost like a weight had been lifted. Grace never really opened up to many people but today Lydia had been a  good choose.

   "Thanks for coming for coffee today. I enjoyed it and we should definitely do it again."

As well as you deserve

Settling it at the coffee shop with Grace, Lydia wore a smile, proving that she really did like getting out of the house for a while. It wasn't often she got out, other than to go to church. Justin did most of her shopping and though she did have lady friends come visiting, actually getting out of the house was nice. 

Engaging in conversation, Lydia hadn't expected Grace to open up like she did, but she didn't mind in the least, and listened quietly while sipping her hot coffee. Every once in a while, she'd give the younger woman a compassionate look, or reach over to pat her hand. It was such a sad story, but it did explain why Grace was so passionate about her work to help other people. It helped explain perhaps why she was so determined to help Jared - another victim of being hit with a vehicle. 

Wiping her own little tear away, she smiles. "Don't be sorry. I understand more about you now. Your heart is so big." 

Reaching into her purse, Lydia retrieves a little handkerchief to hand to Grace. "I have to carry these," she explains before retrieving a second one for herself. "I cry at everything." She chuckles. "My husband used to say that he could not even watch a movie with me because I would cry at every sad moment. Or even the happy ones." She dabs her eyes. "Mama told me once that a woman's tears are her greatest weapon against any man. I guess I have... what you call... a whole arsenal." She laughs again and shakes her head before reaching over to pat Grace's hand again. 

"I am very sorry for the loss of your brother. I can see that it was hard on you. I know what it feels like to lose someone you love. But I can also see that God has healed your heart and made it even bigger to help other people. And that is very admirable. You are a strong woman and I am glad that you are here, helping Jared." 

Retreating, she takes another sip of her coffee. Perhaps Grace's story of the past brought up Lydia's own thoughts of years gone by. "There was a time when I remember Jared as a happy child. But so quickly he grew up. He took things too seriously, and I think a part of him was always jealous of his brother. You see, Justin was warmer. Softer. He made friends easily with just being himself. But Jared..." Lydia shakes her head slowly. "He always thought he needed to prove something, or pay to get what he wanted. So he would show off to make friends. Or he would buy them ice cream so they would like him. And when he would do those things, Justin would be left out. That made Jared satisfied, but it put a... a... a rift between them. A divider? Yes."

She blows on her coffee before taking another sip. "We tried to help them get along and love each other, but somehow they were too different, with two completely different hearts. And when their father died... it seemed... how you say... the last straw. Jared blamed Justin for what happened. They were so young. To see them fight and learn to hate each other... it was very difficult." She shrugs. "And it never stopped. But now... now is the first time I have seen Jared sorry for what he has done. He had such a bad life." 

Her frown indicates her displeasure. "He did not think I knew about his cheating for money or about all the women. But I knew. When he came here, he tried to turn Justin and me against each other. Thankfully, we worked it out. But after all of this. The accident. It is the first time I see the heart I saw in my son when he was just a small boy. He is good. I know he is. It is just... buried." 

Studying Grace's eyes, she nods slowly. "I believe you are the right person to be here. I believe that when your brother died, God planted a seed in your heart to help others. And I believe He knew that you would be here today, helping my Jared."

Jeff smiles a little as he hears the difference in Katie's voice as she talks about Hunter. "I think he's a good guy too," he agrees. "I can tell he has some things he needs to work through, and... I hope he can get right with God again." 

He did hope that - for Hunter's sake and Katie's too. He knew that his daughter's faith was much stronger now than it had been at one time, and he would not wish for Hunter's lack of faith to affect hers. She needed to be closer to God now more than ever - not further away. Despite that though, Jeff really did like Hunter. There was something about him that spoke of a good heart, no matter the trouble he'd been in. That heart just needed to take over his actions. 

"I'm glad he makes you happy." He glances over at Katie again, just watching her for several moments. She looked like her mother today. How proud Crystal would be. So many days he just wished to talk to her again... to tell her all about their daughter and all the accomplishments in her life. About how proud he was of her. About how beautiful a woman she'd become, inside and out. Oh to cure the ache in his heart. 

As Hawk heads under a tree, Jeff ducks to avoid the low-hanging branch, bringing his concentration back to riding again. "He seems to really care about you too." Were she and Jason really done for good? Jeff did wonder. Though it seemed so, he wondered if it was really that easy to separate two people that had shared so much. "And I hope he treats you as well as you deserve," he concludes.

Carryed away

Giving a nod and retrieving her keys from her purse Grace stands. She really did like Lydia a lot, she was nice, down to earth and the way she talked about her boys and her late husband, you could not only see the love but really feel it too and something that outed that was her love for God. Grace could see why the boys might be drawn here no matter who they were or what they had done. It was a safe place filled with peace and love.

   "Alright than lets head out."

...It wasn't a long drive to the little coffee shop and one there with a table sitting comfortable Grace didn't feel odd at all. For not knowing the woman to much one might  think the meeting was strange or there was lack of stuff to talk about but that was not the case. 

   "So, when I finally got out of high school my brother was in a pretty back football accident and the Dr. told him he would never walk again. They wouldn't even try to give him PTand see if maybe just maybe it would help. They didn't believe in mericles and the power of God's will."

Taking another sip of her coffee Grace continues to smile. It was hard sometimes to talk about the past but it was where it got her today and without that she would be on a completely different path in life. God had chosen this one for her and who was she to be sad about it.

   "I didn't believe this was if for my brother so at home I worked with him. He didn't want to tell anyone since he was older than me and getting help from his kid sister. We worked every day doing everything we could to get him to talk again. Than one day finally he started to move on his own. We got him up and walking. He couldn't do it for long but it was a start and for at least three minutes he could walk with no help."

Grace takes in a deep breath before letting it out again. Looking down at her cup she runs her finger along the rim. It was easy to tell there was much more on her mind.

   "Than one day while I was inside getting some heating pads for my brother was outside while out baby sister. A drunk driver was coming down the road and lost control of his car. It was aiming for my sister and Sean saw it coming. With all high might he stood right as I stepped out onto the porch and and ran for my sister pushing her out of the way. Than his legs gave out and he couldn't get out of the way too."

A few tears for in her eyes as she looks up at Lydia and than she looks out the window. It was still hard to think about it sometimes. Sean had been her best friend, her brother, the protector of the family.  He'd meant everything to her and in that one single moment he was gone.

   "He was killed on impact. If the Dr.s had started right away working with him on his legs and getting them strong again Sean might had been able to get out of the way of the car, he might still be here today. It was shortly after that, that I decided I wanted to become a PT. I wanted to give hope to the hopeless, and I wanted to do it for my brother."

Whipping a few of her tears away Grace shakes her head before looking back to Lydia. She hadn't meant to go into the long detail of her story. It just kind of happened and she felt really comfortable.

   "Sorry to ramble on like that...I got carried away."

Jeff was right about what he said and thats why Katie liked talking to him. Most of the time he was and she never doubted his words or gave it second thought. Katie always hoped that one day she would be as wise and offer just as good advise.

As her father brings up Hunter Katie can't help the smile that spread across her face. She just couldn't help it Hunter really did have that affect on her. Continuing to pay attachen to what she was doing Katie glances out of the corner of her eye at her father.

   "Mmmmhmm....I think we are. At least I don't have any attachen of breaking it off. I never exspected to date Hunter, or even get so close to him. He was just...there when everything with Jason and I went down. He's really a good guy under everything and he just makes me feel special again."

Date?

Left alone again, the room becomes quiet once more. Glancing to the window, Jared stares at the sunlight streaming through. In a way, Grace herself brought sunshine, whether she realized it or not. He was sorry that he wasn't much of a friend right now, and he was still so unsure how to deal with all of the bad things stored up in his heart. But... deep down... under it all... he really didn't want to be alone. He'd been lonely enough before without all this piled on top. He didn't particularly want anything to eat or drink but... he wouldn't mind too much if Grace really did come back to keep him company for a while. He knew for his health's sake that he needed to let her start back up on his legs again too... it was just... getting motivated that was the problem. 

Sinking back down into his pillow, he closes his eyes once more. He'd hear when they came back. 

Lydia is just setting the loaves of bread on the counter to cool when Grace enters the kitchen. Hearing about her short visit with Jared, tears glisten in her eyes and she smiles. "Thank you... thank you for taking time to see him. I know it will help."

She nods with surety. "Both of my sons have their father's spirit. I know Jared's has been buried, but... I know that his heart will not let him give up. Under all of his pain is the stubbornness of a mule." She rolls her eyes. "How many times my husband showed that stubbornness." Despite the tears, she chuckles. "And if you and I keep on praying, how can Jared not get well?" 

Taking off her apron, she hangs it up and pats her hair into place. "Okay... I am ready." 

Jeff listens quietly to Katie, keeping his eyes on the trail and his ears on her tone. He knew that all of this had been so hard on her, and if he could change it, he would. But he knew that even as her father, he couldn't keep away all of the pain. 

Nodding slowly, he agrees with her. "If you think that you were in the wrong or reacted in a way you shouldn't have, then yeah, apologizing is probably a good idea. No matter how Jason feels, I'm sure he'd appreciate it. He might even believe you're still angry with him. And... if he's still angry with you, then at least you've done the right thing anyway." 

Pausing as Hawk steps over a log, he continues to think. She'd mentioned Hunter... and as he father, he was a bit curious, if she was willing to talk about it. "So... you and Hunter... looks like you two are getting pretty close, huh? Like maybe you're still gonna date once you're both back in Nevada?" 

Ok

Still keeping her hand on Jared's Grace gives a little sigh but no one that anyone would hear or notice. She had a feeling Jared would say no but she wanted to ask anyways. Maybe if she continued to ask one of these times he would say yes. She could only hope it would work that way.

   "Alright I wont force you, I am going to bring you a pastry, or coffee home. Once I get back I'll even sit a little bit longer with you. We don't have to talk if you dont want but I'll keep you company. I promise I'm not going anywhere."

Grace new she better get going if her and Lydia were going to go out for coffee. Her bread should be done for now and a little time out would do them both good. Than after Grace really would be back to sit with Jared. She'd started this, now it was time to stick with her friend through the rough seas that was to come.

   "I'll see you in a little bit ok?"

Giving his hand a pat Grace stands before heading to the door and exiting. Making her way to the kitchen she could just follow the smell of the fresh baked bread to know where it was in case she forgot. Entering and seeing Lydia Grace gives a smile setting down at the table.

   "I'm ready when you are, and its going to be rough for Jared for a little bit but...I think I broke through and he is going to be ok as long as we have patents."

Walking along side Jeff Katie was happy he'd asked her to go out for a ride today. Not that she wanted to get away or anything but riding with someone else was always more fun than riding alone. Riding always provided a way to think as well and being with her dad just made it that much better.

   "Mmmm...yeah in a week or so I will be. I've got to call Reese tomorrow to let him know when I am coming back. Kinda glad to be going back to work, but bummed out too. I hate having to leave this place behind."

Katie had the best of both words being able to come here when she wanted to and than being able to go home and work for the Elite too but she still missed the ranch. It was fun being here, and she felt so at home because it was her home. On the days she had to leave it, it always sucked and the only comfort was waiting till the next time she got to come again.

   "I guess I am not sure how its going to be seeing Jason again too. I've been doing some thinking over the last few weeks after almost seeing Hunter die and...I feel like maybe I owe him an apology. Maybe I jumped to quick into thinking something bad was going on I don't know but I think I handled things wrong because I didn't know how to handle anything."

Continuing to slow pace on her horse Katie stays right next to Jeff and doesn't mind going slower than normal. It was a nice relaxing walk and they didn't have a time limit so she could walk all night and not really mind at all. 

Jeff was a great person to talk to too. Even before Katie found out he was her dad he's always been the easiest one. He never judged her for her way of thinking or her mistakes. He did always offer some good advise though and try to help her without pushing and thats what Katie liked. 

   "I'm happy with Hunter he is a great guys, under all his problems, he really is. I just...I know Jason deserves to have the apologie too even if we have gone our own ways now. I don't know how I'll do it, or when but I know sooner or later its gonna have to be done. Right?"

Orphan

Feeling Grace's hand on his face, Jared can't help leaning into it a little and his eyes close. He felt so incredibly undeserving, it was overwhelming. How could someone like Grace find anything in him that she would want to befriend? It as something he simply couldn't understand. 

Her hand resting on his sends a strange warmth up his arm and another tear escapes. Without realizing it, his fingers had curled around hers, almost like a little child, searching for comfort. 

With eyes still closed, he shakes his head slowly. He didn't feel like getting out and going anywhere. "You go," he answers quietly. 

Hunter gives Katie a silly grin before starting to laugh along with her. Slinging his arm around her shoulder, he leans over to give her forehead a kiss. "I don't know... I think this is kinda fun." He laughs again before reaching down to tickle her ribs, not caring if they made a scene or not. Despite the heartaches and troubles... every once in a while, there was a moment of sunshine, and this was one of them...

...During the next few days, things didn't change a whole lot. Hunter found himself alone for chunks of time, mostly because he wanted it. His request for some quiet time though, was handled a little better, and he avoided any misunderstandings with Katie like he'd had before. He loved her company, but he was still trying to sort through everything in his mind, and it wasn't easy. He often found himself out near the pastures or under "their" tree, just sitting and thinking things through. It was odd how his time here seemed to bring up the past in his mind. There were things he hadn't thought about in years that suddenly seemed to need rethinking. It was as if his near-death experience was making him reevaluate a lot of things - past and present. But what it all meant, he just wasn't sure...

...Hobbling down the barn aisle, a soft but high-pitched sound catches Hunter's ears and he pauses his route. He'd just come from sitting out by the pasture fence, left to his own devices while Katie and Jeff went on a leisurely father/daughter horseback ride. Listening, he hears the sound again. Approaching a short stack of hay bales, he cocks his head, following the sound around the hay until his eyes fall on a little black and white ball of fur.

Grinning, he sets one crutch aside before he reaches down and scoops the mewing kitten up with one hand, holding it closely to his chest. Tiny claws grip his shirt and the mews continue until the kitten feels safe in his hands, and loud purring starts instead. Hunter cradles her for a few minutes before taking another look around the stack of hay. He hadn't seen any other kittens or a mama cat, so where had this little one come from? "Where's your family, hmm?" he asks her softly. He's answered only with bright blue eyes that silently study his face while her purring motor continues. Searching the rest of the hay in the barn aisle wasn't easy with the fuzzball clinging to his chest, and he still comes up empty.

"Made a new friend?"

Hunter grins at Jim. "Looks that way. Found her in the hay but I can't find the rest of 'em anywhere. You seen a litter?"

"Yeah, down by the office, actually. That empty stall we've been storing straw in." Jim steps closer, reaching out to stroke the kitten's head with a finger. "Could be that Mama started moving her kids to a new place but got interrupted somehow."

"Maybe." Hunter wasn't convinced. The mother cat surely would have come back here sooner. "Guess I've got some more hunting to do."

Jim chuckles. "Good luck."

"Mm thanks." A thorough search of the barn only brings more doubt to Hunter's mind that there was a happy story here. Out back behind the barn, it looked as though a different kitten had met its sad fate in the pasture. Now Hunter began wondering if perhaps Mama herself had not been able to make it back to the barn, leaving the kittens to fend for themselves. An hour later, it was obvious that the tiny critter still nestled against Hunter's chest was the only one left...

...Sitting just outside the barn in the grass, Hunter soaks in the sunshine while a happy kitten with a full tummy sleeps in his lap. At Jim's suggestion, Hunter had asked someone in the kitchen for a small dish, some milk and a little bit of bread. The kitten had been hungry enough to eat, and it didn't take long for the exhausted ball of fur to fall asleep.

Leaning his head back against the barn, Hunter's finger absentmindedly strokes the kitten's head. His mind was far away though. Even though he hadn't talked about it to anybody - even Katie - thoughts of his accident still plagued his mind, bringing him no answers or conclusions. It was frustrating, and he didn't like the strange emptiness he felt deep down. Every day here he loved it more, and yet...

"Well now... looks like Katie better come back quick."

Hunter looks up at Mick, squinting in the sunlight. "And why's that?"

"She might think she's been replaced by your new buddy there."

Hunter grins. "I'd hardly say Katie's been replaced, but it does seem as though I've got a new buddy."

Chuckling, Mick eases down next to him, taking off his hat and running a hand through his sweaty hair. "Jim said you'd rescued her."

"Yeah..." Hunter shrugs. "Guess I just got a soft spot for orphans."

"Mm." Mick reaches over to scratch the tiny furry head. "You're not an orphan, are you?"

"Naw." Hunter forces a short laugh. "Not technically."

Mick lifts one eyebrow. "But...?"

Hunter smirks. "Oh, I guess I'm as close to an orphan as you can get with still having both parents alive - at least last I heard they were."

"Ah, I see. Not a good relationship?"

"Hardly." That unwanted churn was back in Hunter's stomach again.

Letting a pause linger, Mick wonders about this young man's past. "Well, I guess I know how the other end of a bad relationship works." He sighs, thinking about Dylan. "It's not fun."

Confused, Hunter turns his head to look at him. "You got more kids than those who are here?"

"No... no, it's just Dylan, Jade, and of course BJ. Dylan and I though..." He shakes his head. "If we have a conversation lasting more than ten words, we're doing well."

"Oh." Hunter furrows his brow. "But he lives here..."

"Yeah, he does. He left not all that long ago. We had quite a fight and he took off. Came back though. I suppose things have gotten a little better but... well, like I said, I guess I know how it feels being the father in a bad relationship."

Hunter found himself even more curious now. He didn't want to be nosy, but something drove him to ask more questions. "How long was he gone?"

"Hmm... a few weeks? Ended up he had Dan bring him home. I wasn't so sure I'd see him again, but sure was glad when he came back."

"Wait, so you mean he left and you let him come back?"

Mick's eyebrows rise. "Of course I did. He's my son."

"Yeah but... he chose to leave. And you just... let him come back?"

"Well sure. Why wouldn't I?" When Mick doesn't receive a response, he opts to be a little more bold. "Was it like that with you and your dad?"

Hunter's eyes snap up to Mick's. He never talked about his past. With anyone. Not even Katie. Not even Kyle. But something about Mick felt safe. Something stirs within Hunter to answer the question. "Only partly," he admits. "We had a fight but... I didn't go home."

"Ah. I see."

Hunter drops his gaze to look at the sleeping kitten. Why all of a sudden he felt like talking about this, he had no idea. It wasn't his norm, for sure, but... he almost felt he owed Mick an explanation. "I was seventeen."

Mick purses his lips. "Mm. Dylan's age."

"Yeah. My dad wasn't abusive, but he was... tough, I guess. I don't remember too many good times with him, like father/son stuff. Mostly it was him and his work, and me doing my own thing and we'd see each other at supper. Nothing bad, but nothing great either. Then one time there was this party I wasn't supposed to go to, but... I went anyway." Hunter remembered it as if it were yesterday. "There was lots of drinking and drug use going on. I didn't do either, but I was there when the cops showed up."

Mick cringes. "Ouch."

"Yep. That was the first blemish on my record. Well, needless to say, when Dad came to bail me out, he wasn't happy. He didn't even speak to me all the way home. Once we got there though..."

"All hell broke loose?"

"Yeah pretty much. Even though I hadn't actually been involved with the bad stuff, he was appalled that I'd been there at all, and he was going to do everything save not letting me go to school anymore." Hunter rolls his eyes. "We were both angry and shouting and I was dumb and swore at him. Next thing I knew, I'd been slapped across the mouth - hard."

Mick's fingers toy with the brim of his hat while he listens. That sounded all too familiar. He still regretted ever having struck Dylan, and most assuredly it had helped nothing.

Hunter continues. "I guess that was the last straw for me. I was more angry than I'd ever been before. Stomped inside the house, grabbed my backpack and a few clothes and walked out again. Went to a friend's house." Actually, it had been Kyle's house. A lump rises in Hunter's throat. "Stayed with them about a week until I'd cooled off and I realized I wanted to go back home. So I called and... I was told I... I wasn't... wasn't welcome anymore." Struggling to maintain control of his emotions, Hunter almost laughs, embarrassed. "Wow... I guess that still gets to me."

By now, Mick's eyes were staring at him with compassion. "Well sure it does. Nobody's father should turn them away like that."

"Well mine did." Hunter shrugs lamely, bypassing the sudden pain in his heart. "My mom got me some of my stuff out of my bedroom and left it on my friend's porch for me, but that was it. I saw her a couple times after that, and... never did see or speak to my father again."

"Even after all these years?"

Hunter shakes his head. "Guess I always figured if he didn't love me then, he wouldn't now, ya know? I just... moved on."

Mick frowns, sorry to hear about such a tragedy. It wasn't that others hadn't suffered worse in their lives, but to have your own father reject you like that... it was terrible. Things about Hunter were falling into place now though, such as why he liked it here so much. "Did you?"

Hunter's eyes move up again before narrowing in question. Of course he'd moved on. He'd forgotten, gotten his own life and left his old life with his parents behind. But what about deep down? What about in his soul? Had he ever really moved on? Was that what Mick was asking? He finally looks back down at the kitten. "I thought so. Then I came here."

"You don't like it here?"

"No, I love it here," Hunter clarifies. "Too much maybe. I've... I never had a close family, then no family at all since I've been older. Seeing how everybody functions here... how they love each other... get along... work alongside each other... it's... well, I guess I'm jealous."

"I can understand that." Mick nods slowly. "This place is a haven for a lot of people, and we work hard to be a loving family. That's not to say we don't have our problems." He chuckles. "We've had our fair share of differences. But... we've always come back and forgiven. We're close-knit, rare or not."

Hunter looks down as the kitten stirs and stretches. "Maybe I really have felt like an orphan all these years," he muses quietly.

Mick knew that was probably true, and he felt badly. It really was a shame. "Most of us here - my generation - grew up in orphanages," he explains. "So I guess in a way, maybe I know a little how you feel. Things get screwed up... not how we want or plan..."

Hunter cuddles the now-awake kitten, keeping her in his lap. "Aren't you ever bitter about it?"

Mick shakes his head. "Not anymore."

"How?"

"I guess at some point, we've all learned to live for the good we have. Look for the brighter days and stop looking back. We've learned to let go."

Let go. Hunter's pulse automatically quickens as he recalls the voice in the river. Let go. Let go of what? His past?

"Well, I better get back to work." Mick slaps his hat back on his head and rises with just a little trouble, brushing off his jeans. "Take care of that little critter now."

Hunter manages a smile and nod. "I will." Left alone once more, his churning emotions return. He could hardly believe he'd told Mick about him and his father, but... in a strange sort of way... it almost felt... good. Maybe... maybe he wasn't so alone after all. And for the first time, he felt nearer an answer to what had happened in that cold river. He didn't know why, but... it was connected... somehow. 

Jeff gives Hawk his head as they amble down the wooded path. It was an easy trail - wide and smooth. Though Jeff's spirit wanted to take off and race across the fields, he knew he shouldn't. It was just as well though... spending time with Katie was a perk of taking it easy and... he knew that she couldn't stay forever. 

Glancing to the side at his daughter, he just studies her for several minutes as the horses walk. She seemed happier now than when she'd arrived a month or so ago. But he wasn't sure if she'd worked through what she'd came here for or not. He really couldn't tell. Usually he could read her, but this time... this time, it was more difficult. Perhaps Hunter's presence had something to do with that. The man seemed to have swept Katie off her feet, and Jeff was glad to see her smiling again. But just because she smiled, he didn't know if that meant deep down she had worked through her emotions or not. A month had passed though, and perhaps with time, she'd been able to feel again... to read her own emotions again... and to recover from the loss of her connection - and relationship - with Jason. Jeff could only hope it was so. The thing he wanted most was to see his daughter happy. 

Straightening out his reins, he sighs deeply. "I expect you'll be needing to get back to Nevada soon, huh?"