Carpet

Smiling again she gave a little nod. She really did loved when Kirk asked for her input. It made her feel good, not that Kirk ever made her feel bad, but that extra feeling of being valuable was nice. Taking a sip of her drink she sets it down her eyes twinkling.

   "I would be honored to come over and have you pick my brain. We'll see what we can come up with together."

Hearing his comment that had to do with the other night Adison couldn't mind but find his foot under the table and gave it a light tap. Really she wanted to reach over and wack his arm, reach over and....stopping her thoughts right there Adison new this was not the place, not to mention not how there friendship was, no matter how much she wished there was more.

   "You better watch it or I'll smash another gummy worm into the carpet."

Giving a jump as Justin got s upset Beth didn't exspect it to be that bad. Maybe have him be a little upset, but not as mad as her got. She just listened to him daring not to interrupt. She didn't know what to say. She had already thought about this, gone over the pros and cons and had come out with the same.

   "I just wanted to do something useful."

Beth whispered every so softly as Justin left the room. Just continuing to sit on the couch she didn't know what else to do. He was really upset, and she didn't want to upset him more this had been a crappy day to stay with.

Sinking down on the couch Beth just wraps her arms around herself and brings her knees to her chest. She wondered if Justin would be back, but she would wait. A single tear trickled down her cheek.

   "I'm sorry."

She whispered.

Wrestle

As Beth spoke, Justin sat up straighter and turned to look at her, his eyes going wide. "What? No." He shook his head emphatically. "That is completely out of the question."

He withdrew his arm and stared at her in disbelief. "The Agency kills people, Beth. It's what they do. Getting yourself killed isn't going to help, or bring your sister back. You may not have family to worry about, but you're what I've got...and I don't want to lose you." He took a deep breath and ran a hand over his tired face. "And whether you like it or not...this is my fault. I never should have gotten involved with the Elite in the first place. Take a lesson from me."

Getting up off the couch without warning, he trudged to the kitchen where he leaned on the counter to try and calm down before he lost his temper. He couldn't risk blowing up at Beth. Not now. Not in her state. But he was angry. Angry with the Agency. Angry with the Elite. Angry with himself. And he did know Sarah's death was his fault  nothing could change that.

Feeling the tears starting to surface, he took deep breaths, trying to stop them. This wasn't his time to mourn. It was Beth's. She needed him to be stronger than this. He had to be. His eyes scrunched shut tight as he teetered on the edge of losing it. No. Not now. 


Kirk laughed and nodded. "Yes. Please resume your habit of coming over. I just knew if you did it this last week, I never would have been able to keep my mouth shut 'cause I..." He stopped, his smile changing ever so slightly. "...I tell you everything." It was true. Keeping secrets from Adison was nearly impossible. She just always had such good perspectives and let him get things off his chest...he didn't know what he'd ever do without that.

His eyes dropped to his food as he cut another bite of steak. "Really though," he resumed talking about work, "I'll need some help deciding how to approach things, and I'll wanna pick your brain for some fresh ideas. It's not gonna be easy, but there are some changes I really think need to be made in order for this whole thing to work." He paused to chew while his brain shot off in another direction. "Actually...you wanna come over tonight? Hash things out? I need to come up with a written plan of action that has to be approved by the board before I can proceed and...I really could use youe help." He held up his hand. "And I promise not to be bossy...unless you get out of hand or something. I'm which case, I'll have to wrestle you to the floor again."

Only Family

Eating a bit more of her noodles Adison thought. They sure were going to have there hands full at the Elite and there was going to be adjustments all the way around and having Kirk as her boss. Maybe that was the only normal thing. They works well together so she didn't see it big deal. As much as she likes bwing in charge he still respected her enough and he opinions enough that it worked ok.

   "Hey, as long as you don't get to bossy I don't see a problem with it. I mean it might be a little odd at first, but I don't see a problem with it honestly. When we are one cases together already you pretty much take the lead. I'm just there to look good, and add and extra brain to see it from a different side."

Looking at Kirk for a long moment Adison processed her own look in her head. He was thinking about something but wasn't saying. The look he had...she wasn't quite sure. Maybe it was just her imagination and she was tired.

   "So...does this mean we can hang out again? I kinda miss just talking into your apartment and having the old lady across the way stair at me."

Maggie couldn't help but laugh at Garret's comment about his cards. This was one of her most loved games and playing it with Garret, she didnt know why was more fun the normal but it was. Maybe it was the small smile she herself cought here or there, or maybe it was gentil teasing, but she was enjoying him joining in with the family.

   "Once, I think Nate had almost the whole deck in his hand. His cards kept falling."

Nate rolls his eyes as he takes his next turn and skips Maggie's turn. She loved this game, and even if it was simple she was good at it. He loved spending time winning or losing with his family just enjoying the simple things. Having Garret here to enjoy it too. Looking at Laura he smiled putting his arm around her and kissing the top of her head.

   "There I saved you a little bit of pain Garret from Maggie this go around, but I dont know about the next turn."

As Justin comes back into the room Beth is just quiet. She'd paused the movie to make sure he didnt miss any of it. She'd heard his conversation and felt bad. She didn't want him to quit because he thought this was his fault.

   "Hey. Didn't miss anything I pauses it."

Leaning into Justin Beth leaned her head on his shoulder. She felt terrable today with the funeral. One step forward two back.

   "I wasn't meaning to ease drop but I heard you on the phone with with Reese. You shouldn't quit. This whole thing is not your fault it's the Agency's fault. Anyone could of been targeted."

Falling silent for a moment again she moved a little go look up at Justin. She wondered what he would think of what she was going to say next.

   "I...was thinking of seeing if I could work for the Elite...becaure it was the Agency's fault and I want to help do something usefully and take them down. They removes the only family I had left. I just...want to help."

Boss

The game was easy. Too easy. Garret really didn't understand what the whole point was. The only game he'd ever played had been poker and that definitely had had a point. But this? These people were even stranger than he'd thought, which was saying a lot. For Maggie's sake though, he kept his opinion to himself.

As the game went on, he saw laughter. Friendly competitiveness. Pride in each other. Happy losers. And by the time Maggie slapped down a Draw 4 card on him for the umpteenth time, he had to smile, roll his eyes and shake his head. He was beginning to see now that the point was not to win. Nobody really cared about that. The point was just...to be with each other and have fun. It was still foreign to him. Still something he didn't understand. But there was something...enticing about it. He couldn't quite put his finger on it but...it was part of...something bigger. Family. 

With a hand completely full of cards, he whacked Maggie softly upside the head with them and smirked. "You just wanted me to play so you could see how many cards I could hold." 

Laura grinned as she held only two cards, bouncing just a little to see if she could win this round. "You do seem to have quite a talent there." 

"Uh-huh." Garret leaned forward a little, quirking one eyebrow at her. "Let's see how much talent you have." He tossed down his own Draw 4 card.

Laura's jaw dropped. "You turkey!"

"Hey, don't blame me. Maggie's the one who taught me to play." 

"Sure." Laura started drawing cards. "I have a feeling you've known how be on the winning side longer than just this evening." As soon as she'd said it, she realized how it could be taken the wrong way, and her gaze snapped up at him. 

Seeing the horrified look on her face, his eyes narrowed slyly. "Oh, I've been known to get my way a time or two..." He let his comment linger a moment before adding a grin to take the edge off. "And yes," he said in almost a whisper. "The big scary guy does have a sense of humor." 

Not knowing what else to do, Laura laughed and shook her head. "I'll remember that." Her sidelong glance caught Nate's eye as she smiled. Maybe...just maybe...they were making progress.


For just a moment, Kirk's eyes locked with Adison's. His facial expression shifted slightly from the flippant way he joked with her into something more serious. But it had nothing to do with their jobs. 

Blinking, he dropped his gaze and cut into his steak to take a bite before his mind wandered too far into dangerous territory. "Okay, so...I will...let Barnes know you're coming with me. Next step is finding a new facility for the Elite. The board isn't satisfied with them still using an old manufacturing building. They need something better, above ground, and better equipped for their...our...line of work. I also need to have a sit-down discussion with Reese. Apparently it's also my job to inform him of all this and...he's not going to be happy, especially after our last meeting. And... I'm not sure how to say, 'Hey, we're gonna be working together, you have to move, and oh, you're still the chief but I'm kinda your boss.'"

He sighed and took a sip of water before looking back up at her. "Technically...I'll be...over you, too. Is that gonna be weird for you?"

"Look, I don't..." Justin paused the phone conversation as he paced his hallway. Beth was waiting for him on the couch to finish their movie and he really wanted to get back to her. It had been a hard day for her, facing Sarah's funeral, and he knew that right now, she needed him more than ever.  Having Reese call him this evening was an inconvenience to say the least, especially when Justin's heart was far from work at the moment. He'd been asked to come in tomorrow and discuss Garret, then try to talk to Aaron again.

 

He sighed. "I'm not sure I'm coming back at all."

"What?"

"Can you blame me? The Agency came after me by killing my girlfriend's sister. Do you know what that's doing to me? I'd rather get poisoned myself, but they figured me out, Reese. They figured out how to get under my skin and I fully admit it. I'm just not so sure I want to keep playing this game and risk the lives of those around me."

"So you're just going to quit? Give in to what they want?"

"Got a better suggestion?"

There was a long pause before Reese's voice came back calmly. "You do whatever you think is best. I'd be sorry to see you go - I think you've done a great job so far and the Elite needs someone like you to help figure out the people we bring in, not to mention the ability you have to help them. But...I understand your position. Just think about it, okay?"

Justin dug his toe into the carpet as he stared at the floor. "Okay. I'll think about it. I'll talk to you soon." Ending the call, he let out a long breath. He wasn't taking this lightly, being flippant or making up his mind too quickly. He'd already thought long and hard about it and had made up his mind. He would finish out his jobs with people loosely connected to the Elite - people like Mackenzie and Ryan. But otherwise, he would pursue other clients that would not put his loved ones in danger. 

Returning to the living room, he eased back down on the couch, putting his arm around Beth and kissing her head. He hoped he'd been quiet enough in the hallway to have not disturbed the movie. "What did I miss?" he whispered.

Wing Man

Continuing to just listen to Kirk Adison curls some pasta on her fork. She sure had missed Kirk, and she had missed his babbling too. She never minded it, and would never interrupt him, she actually likes how he just when on about something so she could process it all at once, and no try to do it section by section.

   "Well...if they want you to fail...I guess we will just have to prove them wrong, and make it work. They'll be so sorry they day they messed with us."

Popping her spoonful of noodles into her mouth and chewing Adison smiled searching Kirk's face for a long moment on his last comment. Was there more to his comment? Her heart seemed to speed up a little bit. But the more she thought the more she tried to calm herself down. He was her best friend, that's how he wanted it and she didn't want to jeopardize that. 

   "You are the only wing man I want. I couldn't imagen going head first into danger without you."

Hearing that Garret would play with them Maggie smiled wide. She wanted Garret to be part of the family too and having him play a family added to that. She was pleased. Getting everything set up and making sure Laura and Nate where play too Maggie started to explain.

   "So when you get down to one card you have to say Uno, because if you dont and someone catchs you, you will have to draw two cards."

Maggie smiles again as she deals the cards out. She wasn't sure if she explained it right but she sure hope she did.

Nate looks around the table picked up his cards. Smiling at Laura and than looking to Garret. It seemed he never played a game before like this but he hoped he could relax a little and have some fun.

   "Don't worry Garret we will walk ya though it if your confused still. You will be  pro in no time. Gotta watch it though I think Maggie has wilds up her sleeve." 

Fail

Watching Maggie spill her ice cream, something in Garret's gut twisted just a little as he tensed. He hadn't even realized it until it was over and he was relaxing again. He had too many memories of spills, broken dishes, trips and falls...when he hadn't been so lucky to have someone like Nate around. Instead, he'd been slapped at the least, locked away on average, and beaten at most. And for just a moment her, he'd feared for Maggie. What made these people different? Why had Nate hardly batted an eyelid at the mess?

He didn't have a whole lot of time to dwell on it, before he was suddenly faced with a new dilemma. His ice cream was done, and now Maggie had handed him a very unfamiliar deck of cards and she was looking at him with those eyes again.

"I'm... I'm kind of tired..." Actually, after doing nothing but stay in bed all day, tired really wasn't the right word. He started to hand the cards back, then saw Nate and Laura. They'd done nothing but be there for him today...maybe a few minutes wouldn't hurt. 

"...but..." He looked back at Maggie. "I guess I can stay up a while longer." A game? Really? He wasn't sure he even understood the point, but he'd had a lot of that lately. He sat up a little straighter, closer to the coffee table. "You'll have to teach me."


Kirk finally smiled and rolled his eyes. "I never should have thought you'd even hesitate. You're as bad as I am." He sighed. "I...didn't ask to be put in this position. Once they had me backed into a corner, I came out guns blazing in favor of keeping the Elite running. Guess I didn't even realize how passionate I was til then. And...one thing led to the next, and all of a sudden they were putting me in charge." He shrugged. "Comes with a pay raise...as long as this turns out to be a success. But... I'm not really sure I'm up to the job. The Elite doesnt know yet - that's why it's all under wraps at the moment. Big boss things they'll rebel or something."

He paused his conversation as their food was briught and he thanked the waiter. "I'm supposed to work alongside Reese, and I just don't know how that all is going to work. I feel like I've been set up to fail. Like they set all this up just to shut me up and they know it will never work. Then it'll be my fault and they can sweep the whole thing under the rug. It'll end up exactly how they wanted it in the first place but then they'll have the excuse that they tried to make it work, and obviously the Elite just had to go. I..."

Kirk suddenly stopped as he realized he was rambling. A silly grin curled his lips. He sure had missed Adison lately. This was exact why he'd had to avoid her - because when he was with her, everything always came spilling out. "Yeah so...anyway, I insisted on taking at least two agents with me and they agreed, most likely just to appease me. But...as long as they're giving me a shot...no matter how much of a long shot it is... I wouldn't pick anybody over you."

Crazy

As Kirk stayed serious Adison's smile faded too. This was no laughing matter, and she should of known better than to make a joke. Continuing to listen to Kirk she had no idea what he was talking about. She was worried because she wanted to do her job? It made no sense.

   "You know your secrets are same with me."

Continuing to listen Adison couldnt help the look of surprise on her face. She new her and Kirk had talked about maybe someone from the FBI coming in and helping the Elite and keeping an eye on things, but she never dreamed it would be him. This seemed all so sudden but at the same time it didnt. 

Taking another sip of coffee Adison just let the silence linger as she searched Kirk's face. This would be new and exciting, but at the same time dangerous  She new her answer already though. If she could help take the Agency down she would, this was her life.

   "I'll do it. As long as you'll be by my side, I'll do it. One I've been miserable at the office without you. Second this is what we trained for, this is why we wanted to be agents. If we can help...if I can help, I want to very much."

Giving a smile Adison searches the dark pools in Kirk's eyes for a moment, her own game a small twinkle.

   "Anyways, If you are going to put yourself in danger I need to be there to watch your back. I think I'd go crazy knowing you were in danger every day and I could do nothing."

Enjoying the moment Jess gives a jump at Axel's pain and her face said how sorry she was. Even if she wasn't the one who caused him pain she was still sorry he had to feel the pain at all. She wished he could catch a break but he just couldnt. Something was always happen to him one way or the other and she hated it. 

   "Oh I definitely can come to you."

Leaning in close to Axel Jess gives him a soft kiss doing her best not to touch his arm and hand. Pulling away and leaning the other way she comes back in for another kiss deeping it. She missed spending time with Axel she wasn't about to wast it now.

   "I think that sounds like a great idea. What do you think Maggie?"

   "Yeah."

Getting a little excited Maggie forgot she still had her bowl with a little soupy ice cream in it and send it flying to the floor spilling ice cream. Looking down and than up at Nate and Laura Maggie's eyes started to fill with tears as she sank down in the couch a little. She hadn't meant to spill it.

Seeing his sister had spilled her ice cream Nate calmly set his bow down on the table and smiled at her. He new it was an accident, and the carpet in there was old.

    "It's ok Maggie, you dont need to cry it was an accident. Here...take your bowl to the kitchen and grab some paper towels and I'll help you clean it up."

Looking to Laura he smiled. He new she wouldn't be upset about what happened. It was only a mistake. Waiting for Maggie to come back Nate moved the coffee table back so he could get to the mess better.

It didn't take long to clean the mess up with Maggie's help. Though the carpet was stained a little bit it hardly looked like anything had even happened. 

   "There ya go, good as new. So now...what gave to you want to play?"

Thinking for a second Maggie left the living room and ran up the steps to her bedroom only to come down a few moments later. In her hand she had a set of Uno cards.

   "Let's play Uno."

Going over to Garret she hands them to him smiling. She wanted everyone to play because it was family game time.

    "Do you know how to play? I can show you, so you can play with us...please."

Nate looked to Garret and than looked to Laura. He wondered if Garret would join them, and hoped he would. It was be nice to have an extra person in on the game.
 

Selfish

Despite the ironic humor of Adison's question, Kirk didn't crack a smile. He just looked at her with the same seriousness he'd worn all evening. "That's what I was afraid of." 

He sighed and leaned back in his chair, still studying her. "I don't like the thought of you going to war, you know. I know you can handle yourself, but I..." He dropped his gaze. "I worry about you." To distract his thoughts, he reached for his water to take another sip. It was a long, quiet while before he finally looked back up at her again. It was time she knew the truth. 

"What I'm about to tell you is currently classified. It won't be in the near future, but until the information is released, it's important that you speak to no one about this." He was more serious than normal. Sober. Concerned. Worried? "I told you that I was being transferred, and that's the truth. But I'm not transferring to another branch of the FBI. I'm transferring to the Elite, and it's my job to help restructure the organization." He paused, letting that sink in. "I've also been given my choice of two more agents to come with me. The powers that be want at least three FBI agents working within the Elite to keep tabs on how things are run. I...may have put up quite an argument in the courtroom the other day. As a result, I was put in charge of this endeavor, and I haven't quite figured out whether it's a punishment or an honor." 

He folded his hands on the table and looked Adison in the eye. "That's the short version. I...asked you how you felt about the Agency because...you're on my list of agents I'm considering taking with me." He stopped again as his eyes searched hers. "Selfishly... aside from you being a dang good agent... I want you with me because I can't imagine not having you as my partner." He swallowed hard. "But I don't like the thought of you being a new target for the Agency. So it's going to have to be up to you."


Axel sighed but nodded. He knew Jess was right. Everything would turn out alright. Maybe not the way he'd planned or how he wanted it, but it would be okay. It had to be.

Shifting his head a little, he kissed the side of her neck softly, moving up to her cheek, then around to her lips, letting his own linger there for a few moments. Pulling back, he smiled, his eyes twinkling. "Maybe staying here was a better idea after all." Moving back in for another kiss, he just enjoyed the moment, not really caring about the movie she'd put in, or the ice cream they were going to have. If he couldn't take her to the lake, at least he'd show her how appreciative he was of her willingness to bear with him through the good and bad times. 

In reality, he did have a few moments to ignore everything else, but shifting just the wrong way, he accidentally put weight on his hand, which sent pain shooting through his palm, fingers, and all the way up his arm. Recoiling sharply, he just leaned his head back on the couch, his face contorted in pain as he sucked in a breath. "Okay so maybe you're going to have to come to me," he tried to tease. 


Grateful for Nate's little intervention, Garret tried to focus back on the meal and ignore all the memories that had just come to mind. All of them brought pain, and it was just as well if he didn't have to think about them. 

The offer to go to the office halted his thoughts yet again, as he scraped his plate clean. If he went back to the office, would they make him stay? What if Reese wanted him there and wouldn't let him come back here? He'd wanted to go back to the Elite earlier but...now he wasn't so sure. He didn't know what he wanted anymore, which was almost worse than having a bad plan. "I don't know," he finally replied. "I guess I'll...see how I feel tomorrow." Physically he would probably be better. But mentally? At the moment, he felt incredibly out of sync. 

Seeing his clean plate, Laura smiled. "Garret, would you like seconds?"

He thought for a moment and bit the inside of his lip. It did taste awfully good. Finally he nodded and held out his plate. "Thank you." 

The rest of supper was fairly quiet, and once it was over, the living room was the normal place to sit for the evening. Laura convinced Garret to join them since they'd be having ice cream soon anyway, so he took up one corner of the couch, awkwardly observing how they functioned. It was strange...how they liked just...sitting here. Talking. The television was turned on, but no one really paid that much attention. Brian took most of Laura's concentration until she took him upstairs to put him to bed. It was just...quiet. Peaceful but confusing. 

Then the ice cream. Garret wouldn't admit to anyone that he'd waited all day for this. Remaining in the corner of the couch, he held his bowl of plain chocolate ice cream, eating it more slowly than any of the others, savoring every bite. It was worth staying up for. 

Laura slipped glances in Garret's direction before catching Nate's eye and smiling. Had they finally found something their guest enjoyed? "You want to play a game with Maggie tonight?" she asked quietly. They still had plenty of time before bed, and it would give them something to do as a family.

 

Forbidden Question

Listing intently to Garret Maggie's eyes never left his face. They way he talked it almost had her in a tance as she listend to him talk about the party's, the balls, and the dresses. She had never been to anything like that and had only seen that kind of stuff on tv.

Hearing Garret say something about someone being beautiful Maggie picked up on it fast. He couldn't help but wondering and before she could think about it she asked.

   "Did you have someone you danced with? Where is she now? I'd like to learn how to dance."

Looking at his sister from across the table Nate gave her a stern look but not angry. He new this would be a hard topic for Garret and maybe one right now he didn't want to talk about.

   "Maggie, finish eating and let Garret eat his ok?"

   "Ok."

Maggie picked up her knife and fork again trying to hold it like Garret had showed her and cut some of her food. It felt strange but she was doing it anyways like Garret showed her. Maybe now the people at school wouldn't make fun of her.

Giving a laugh at Laura's comment about the ice cream he shakes his head and holds a look of guilt. Ice cream was his guilty pleasure. Just letting the silence linger for a long moment Nate finally talks again setting his fork down.

   "Tomorrow I'll be going into the office for a few hours. I have some paperwork I need to turn in. If you want to come with me for a little bit Garret."

   "Don't be sorry. As long as I get to spend time with you that's really all that matters."

Giving a smile Jess went into the kitchen and got some stuff together for ice cream in a bit before turning a movie on low. Sitting down she scooted into Axel and leaned her head on top of his. With all the trouble he already had with his hand she could only imagen how hard this would be.

As Axel talks again Jess heart hurt. She new how important all the stuff he just listed off was to him. Misty had helped him get a little of his life back, but what if it was damaged again. It had been hard the time time trying to repair it, now...she wondered if it would be almost impossible.

   "You'll take it one day at a time and just have to find something new to do. I know you can, and I know you will with enough determination. I'll be there to help. Have you called Misty? Maybe she can help again."

It had been a few days since Adison had seen Kirk and she was starting to get cranky, but she did her best to just give it time like he had asked but it had been so hard. So sitting across from him not made Adison happy and she new people back at work would be happy for sure as well.

Taking a sip of her own coffee Adison just listened to Kirk. She had no idea what he was talking about or why he would ask something like that. It seemed odd but maybe it was just all part of his top secret job now. Putting her coffee cup down Adison looked at Kirk question in her eye, but she would not ask.

   "I'd say...as long as you had my back I'd be all for it. Once reason I wanted to work for the FBI was to work on the cases that were harder, get the bad guys that were meaner, and help those who needed it."

Folding her arms on the table she looked down for a second before looking back to to him again. There was no joking tonight, at least not at the moment. This was work related it needed to be treated as such. Though she did wish it was a normal dinner, she new work always came first.

   "If the Agency is as bad as we have been told, they need to be brought down. No one should have that much power to hurt people for now reason. Why are you asking me?"

 Relizing she had asked the question he had said not too she rolled her eyes. It was in her nature to know everything and not just part so it was hard not to ask that. She just grined at Kirk.

   "Forget I asked that, forgot I cant ask the forbidden question...sorry."

Half carton

At Maggie's question, Garret visibly stiffened, and he shifted back to his place setting, picking his own fork back up again. But he didn't take a bite yet. His mind was too far away.

"It was a long time ago," he answered quietly. "I had to learn how to act at dinner parties around wealthy people. I had to learn how they talked...ate...danced. There were fancy dress balls with girls dressed in long, flowing blue dresses and diamonds that sparkled under chandeliers. And when the music played, they moved like they were floating...like a dream, except it was real. They'd dance all night. And when the moonlight shone through the windows, they looked like princesses, just waiting for someone lucky enough to dance with them." 

Laura had stopped eating to listen as Garret's voice had grown softer and softer. His gaze was glued to his plate, but his mind was obviously a very long ways away. "It sounds beautiful," she commented gently. 

"She was." Garret's eyes suddenly grew dark before he blinked and straightened up to keep eating. "But it was a long time ago," he repeated. 

Laura nudged Nate's foot under the table. Her face wore an expression of sympathy. Nate had told her about Victoria, and anyone could tell that Garret's heart was far from being mended. How beautiful was the life he'd just described. Yet it was all within the ugly world of the Agency. How could a little boy - evolved into this grown man - even hope to survive out here after that was all he'd known? It was no wonder he was struggling so. "Was chocolate ice cream part of the enchanted evenings?" she asked lightly to help change the mood.

He finished chewing and managed a wry grin, pulling himself away from the memories. "Not generally. I could sneak in a spoonful every once in a while but it was a rare treat." 

Laura smiled. "Well, tonight you can have as many spoonfuls as you want. But be quick, because Nate will eat a whole half carton if my back is turned too long."


Axel's shoulders dropped, but he knew he shouldn't argue with Jess. She was right... the lake wasn't going anywhere, and the way he was feeling, he really did need to rest. "Okay," he relented. "I'm sorry...but thanks. Staying here actually sounds like a pretty good idea." 

Wandering to the living room, he eased down to sit on the couch and tried to adjust his sling so his hand would be more comfortable, but there really was little he could do about the pain at this point. It was just going to hurt, and that was that. He waited for Jess to join him on the other side, and slipped his arm around her shoulders to give her a kiss on the cheek, then just rested his head on her shoulder. As much as he wanted to be the strong one for her, tonight... he was the one that needed support.

"I gotta prepare for the worst," he mentioned quietly. "If I lose use of my hand... my job is done. My instrument playing is done. I don't know what I'm going to do."


The restaurant wasn't crowded, but most tables were filled. It was quiet with low lights, creating a nice atmosphere with soft music playing in the background. Most customers were dressed nicely, and were enjoying well-prepared meals. 

Kirk sat across from Adison and swirled his ice around in his water glass. He'd contemplated wine, but thought better of it, especially since this was a working dinner. He hadn't been in the office much this past week. All of his assignments were being handed over to other agents, and he hadn't even had Adison over in the evenings, too busy with his classified case to even mingle. Although his main reason for keeping his distance was his inability to keep information from her, and he couldn't afford to spill the beans too soon. 

Now though, he looked at her with a multitude of thoughts running through his eyes. He'd asked her to come to discuss work, although in a place like this, it was a little hard to concentrate. He finally took a sip of water and sighed. "I have a question for you, and you can't ask why I'm asking about it yet, but I just need to find out where you stand." 

He paused and took another deep breath. "You know a little about the Agency. We've had a few cases pass our desks the last couple years, but nothing really in depth, right? But I've also told you a lot about them through my investigation of the Elite. They are one of the worst crime organizations there is, and also one of the most brutal. They despise people who try to go up against them, and they kill or torture without a second thought. So. Knowing how dangerous they are... if you were asked to pursue taking them down... would you?" He cocked his head. "Pretend it would not affect your employment. You could take it or leave it. What would you say?"

Learn

Smiling Katie ran to catch up with Jason and gave a nod. Though she hadn't said anything she still had been thinking about the whole thing with the Agency too and it still confused her. Not that anything the Agency did made sense but they had a pattern and this just didn't fit it. 

   "I think he should be in tomorrow. I'll do my best to remember, to remind you to ask."

As Garret helped her Maggie smiled. Listing intently and concentrating so she could remember what he was telling and showing her. She found this simple thing so interesting she really wanted to try and remember so she could do it herself too.  

   "Thank you for showing me."

Maggie looked up at him and searched his eyes. He held a look the was different, it was soft, caring, Maggie liked it, it made her feel warm. I just made her feel good all over.

   "Where did you learn all that?"

Though Axel said he was fine Jess could see there was more. He was in pain and though nothing might be broken it was possible his bad hand was worse now. It made her feel good he still wanted to go to the lake but she new maybe it was best to just have a night in for his own sake. 

   "I can give you some TLC here, on the couch with a movie and ice cream. I don't mind honest. Once you are feeling better we can go to the lake. It's not going anywhere promise."

Putting her brush down an pulling her hair back Jess throws it up in a bun before smiling at Axel. She wasn't upset she just wanted to make sure he was ok first.

TLC

Axel gave Jess an apologetic look and stepped close to give her a gentle kiss on the lips before answering her. "Accident at work. I'll be okay." His eyes betrayed him though, and he tried to smile. "Nothing broken anyway so... we'll see if I still have feeling in my fingers in the next couple weeks." 

His shoulders dropped a little. He was in pain and nauseous, but he hated spoiling their evening. Too many other times he'd ruined dates because of his mood swings, and he didn't like doing it to Jess again. "It's okay...we can still go to the lake. I mean... I might need a little extra TLC..." He threw her a sly grin. "But I know a great spot on the beach for that."


Waiting just a moment, Jason slid from the pickup too, purposely forgetting his leftovers in the back seat. Coming around the front, he moved close and gave Katie's shoulders a squeeze. He didn't linger though, and aimed for the door.

Before getting there though, he paused. "Hey... Don't let me forget to talk to Nate when he comes in. Maybe he can ask Garret about what's been going on and see if he's got any theories."


Maggie's sudden question made Garret pause mid-chew and he glanced over at her, surprised. He looked down at his own hand, questioning what she saw. He'd spent so many gruelling hours being humiliated and frustrated, sitting at a formal table, being forced to learn proper etiquette that now he forgot it wasn't normal outside certain circles. 

Later he would question the reason for his next move, but in the moment, perhaps he forgot where he was and who he thought he was. He set his own fork down and scooted closer. "Here..." He took her napkin and folded it neatly before setting it on her lap. "Elbows off the table," he directed softly. "There. And..." He took her hand to set the fork in a proper position between her fingers. "Then small bites. And if it's too big..." He took her other hand and set her knife in it, positioning her fingers to make to make it easy. "Cut, set the knife down, and take your small bite."

Across the table, Laura's eyes had gone wide. Her curiosity of Garret's background was killing her, but she didn't dare ask. All she could do was look at Nate again, showing him her surprise.

Fork

Hearing the knock at the door Jess new it was Axel. She was running late for there date and hoped he didn't mind. Brushing her hair and watching to the door at the same time she opened it.

   "Hey, sorry I'm not...."

Seeing his arm done up in the sling she stepped aside so he could come in and stropped brushing her hair just looking at him. What on earth had happened to him? He hadn't mentioned anything happened but he looked horrible. 

   "Axel...what happened?"

Her face held a look of worry and she just looked at him. She couldn't help but hurt because he was hurting. How come things couldn't just get better for him. 

   "We don't have to go to the lake since you are hurt. We can sit here, cuddle and watch a movie. I dont mind."

Just sitting in the parking lot with Jason for a long moment Katie turns to look at him and smile. Though she was still feeling pretty messed up emotionally she did have a good lunch with Jason, and she felt a little better getting some stuff off her chest. 

   "No regrets. Thank you for making me smile despite everything. It was a really nice lunch."

Giving Jason's hand a gentile pat Katie gets out of the truck. She had a lot of work to do still, but at least if she didn't get it all done before leaving Reese new she had been taking Jason to lunch and she was his body guard after all. Leaning on the hood and just soaking up the sun She waited for Jason so they could head in.

   "I do have to say Laura, you must have done something different with this because its amazing."

Nate smiles at his wife before looking to Brian and wiping the little bit of spit that was coming out of his mouth. Looking to Maggie and than Garret he smiled. He was happy to see Garret at the table with them and eating. Even if it wasn't a lot at least it was something.

Looking to Garret Maggie smiles and than looks down at him holding his fork. Trying to maneuver her fork the same way she was having a it of trouble. Frowning a little bit she tried again only to have it fall. Glacing back up at Garret she studied him for a long second. 

   "How do you hold your fork like that? Can you show me?"

Manners

Having been awake, Garret was fully aware when Maggie came into the room. He looked at her dimly and didn't move when she touched his arm. He wasn't sure if staying in here all day had dampened his mood, or if his mood was what had kept him here. Either way, he didn't feel like joining the others for supper. 

"Maggie, I..." He stopped when he saw her eyes. There was so much hope in them. Why did she keep doing this to him? He sighed before rolling his eyes. "Okay..." He finally moved to slide out of bed, and ran a hand through his hair. He'd go...for her. Or maybe for his stomach. Maybe both.

Walking slowly behind her in his bare feet, he came into the dining room to find the table set and waiting. It was different than when he'd arrived late. It was different than being fed in his room. They were asking him into their intimate family time and... it felt... uncomfortable. 

He nodded politely to Laura though, and caught Nate's eye. Whose idea was it to keep him around anyway? 

Once seated, he waited quietly as a prayer was said. Interesting. Odd. But interesting. He wasn't really surprised though with all the Bible verses around the house. As he ate his food, he silently took note of everything in the room. Every sound. Smell. Movement. Word.

"This is very good," he complimented Laura on the casserole. "Thank you."

Laura raised her eyebrows, surprised, but grateful. "You're welcome, Garret. I'm glad you like it." She took a sip of water before catching Nate's eye. She was still amazed at his table manners - even how he handled his silverware - and she couldn't help but wonder where he'd really been all these years. 


Jason finally calmed down enough to smirk as he wiped his eyes. "Right. Yeah. Sorry. How inconsiderate of me." He cleared his throat, and laughed again. "Sorry. So where were we?"

He wound up eating a little more, but took about half with him in a take out box, making Katie promise not to tell Rick. 

Back at the Elite, Jason parked in the lot and shut off the engine before looking over at Katie. "Thanks...this was...nice. No matter what. No regrets."


"Mmm, I don't know." Axel was on his back underneath an old pickup, while at the same time, Leo was bent over the open hood. "This isn't gonna be a quick one."

"Agreed." Leo grimaced as he prodded around inside the engine. "We better let the customer know it's gonna be a couple days. I don't see any way around it."

Axel rolled out towards the front of the truck to look up at Leo. "What else we got on schedule?"

"Um...lemme go look." As Leo turned, his elbow accidentally brushed up against the toolbox that was sitting on the edge of the engine. It hadn't been secured well to begin with, and all it took was a bump. Realizing what he'd done, Leo was quick to yell a warning to Axel. "Look out!"

Reflexes sent Axel scooting back underneath the truck to protect his head, but having used his hands for leverage left them exposed. Though the odds were great, all it took was that split second for the edge of the toolbox to rake Axel's fingers on its way down, then land squarely on his right hand. The pain was so great it took his breath away, and for a moment, he just sat still, almost dazed.

Leo was on the floor in an instant to move the toolbox, ignoring the wrenches that were now scattered all about. Quickly but carefully he shifted the box to set it aside and helped Axel out from under the pickup. Axel just sat and leaned his head back against the bumper, letting his hand rest in his lap. Keeping his eyes closed, he tried to breathe through the pain.

"Axel? You okay? I am so sorry. Is it bad? What do you need?"

He pried open his eyes to look at Leo's scared face. It hadn't been his fault - it was an accident, and Axel couldn't blame him. "Ice," he managed.

Leo sprinted for the break room fridge.

In the meantime, Miles had seen what had happened, and now knelt next to Axel. "You need to go to the ER?"

For the first time, Axel dared a glance at his hand. The top was already bruising and starting to swell, his knuckles skinned and bleeding but not too badly. His palm had also landed on a piece of gravel, which, under the pressure of the falling toolbox, just compounded the pain. "I don't know," he finally answered through gritted teeth. "I...I can't tell if it's broken or not."

Mile grimaced. He knew that was Axel's bad hand to begin with. "This isn't gonna be good, is it?"

"Uh-uh." Axel took another deep breath and swallowed hard. His hand started to tremble, making the pain even worse. As Leo arrived with the ice, he gingerly wrapped it up between the cold bags and stood with the other guys' help.

"Come on," Miles directed. "I'll drive you to the hospital."

...It was several hours later. Axel's hand was wrapped in a sling, and his stomach churning from the pain meds he was taking. No bones were broken - that was the good news. But there was some pretty deep bruising, and the impact alone had caused trauma to his already-damaged nerves. Nothing was for certain until this new injury healed, and Axel knew that. But deep down, he had a growing suspicion that all the repair work Misty had done would now be severely diminished. It was the way his fingers tingled. It was the feel of numbness. It was the kind of pain. It was all too familiar. He'd been doing so well - functioning so well. And now this. It was frustrating at the very least, depressing at most. But...he pasted on a smile anyway. He'd promised to take Jess to the lake tonight, so to the lake they would go. He'd brushed her off too many times before when he'd had a rough day - and he knew it was a bad habit that he needed to work on.

Sighing, he made his way to Jess' door before knocking. He hadn't told her about the accident since he hadn't wanted her to worry, but now he was questioning that choice.

Yes!

Katie can't help the out burst laughter at Jason's antics. She had missed them and was happy to be sitting here now laughing. She wasn't feeling amazing yet but he was helping her smile and that alone helped a little.

   "I don't mean to laugh before I ask if you are ok...but if you could see your face you would too."

Continuing to laugh Katie does her best to compose herself. Taking a sip of her water and grabbing an ice cube she munches on it before looking at Jason again and shaking her head. Some thing never change and she was happy about that.

   "...are you ok J? Don't die on me now after I just poured my heart out to you."

   "Yes!"

Maggie hopped up from where she was coloring and smiled at Laura. She was always happy to help with anything Laura needed. She enjoyed helping her even if other people might consider it  dirty work. Maggie just liked being around her, and helping as much as possible to make things easier for her.

Heading down the hall and stopping at Garret's door she gives a knock before opening it a little and poking her head in. Seeing him awake and sitting on his bed she goes all the way and and comes over to him. Laying a soft hand on his arm where he could see it was her.

   "Garret, its time for dinner. You are going to eat with us. Laura made chicken casserole and afterwards there is ice cream. Come on...Laura said you have to come or she will chase you with her rolling pin."

Smiling at Garret with her big brown eyes Maggie waited for him. She was happy he was staying a little longer and was going to be eating dinner with them tonight. It would be nice to have him at the table too.

Seeing how somber Travis got at the mention of dinner Ashlee couldn't help but feel a little let down. Not with Travis just that she wouldn't have someone her own age to talk too. Wasn't his fault though and she wasn't upset with him. She wasn't sure what happened when he went to get his stuff today but she would guess it probable wasn't easy and his mom might have put up a big fuss. She felt sad, it was hard seeing Travis hurting.

   "Well if you don't want to eat now that's ok. There will be left overs in the fridge, there always are and you can have them any time you get hungry. That area is never off limits."

Ashlee smiled at him and shifted just a little so she was standing on her own again. Picking at a piece of the paint for a moment. Hearing Travis speak again this time about working there Ashlee cant help the little bit of excitement that was on her face. She wondered if they would get pared up more. She'd like that if they were.

   "I think I would like that very much. It will be nice to see a younger face around. Not that there is anything wrong with anyone else...just...someone around my age. You might even get to see that hay loft after all." 

Hungry

Travis smiled as Ashlee came over. He'd wondered when she might show up again. "It's alright..." He glanced over his shoulder at the bunk. "Hardest part is always getting used to a new bed, but at least I'm not sharing with my dad...he snores." A laugh surfaced and he shook his head, remembering nights on camping trips and his dad wondering why Travis was so tired in the mornings.

Ashlee's next question made Travis a little more sober. "Um... I think I might skip tonight. It's...been a pretty rough day." His eyes dropped. "Thanks, though. It's nice to be asked." It really was. To some it would be nothing, but being around people, even someone like Ashlee, who cared enough to want to be friends...it was the biggest perk of being here. He never had fit in very well anywhere, not even at school. He had plenty of "friends" but no one he really trusted enough to be close to. Not many people would guess that since he could be fairly outgoing, but on the inside...growing up had been a bit tough.

Realizing he'd just gotten lost in thought, he snapped his attention back to Ashlee and forced a new smile. "Looks like I'm gonna be finding some work to do around here to earn my keep, so I imagine our paths are gonna cross quite a bit in the barns."


Garret cocked his head a little at Nate as he watched the extra items go into the cart. At the mention of a sugar high, one of his eyebrows rose. Binging on anything, let alone sugar had been strictly prohibited in his world. A bit of ice cream on rare occasion had been the best of treats, and usually only after a party if he'd sneak into the kitchen, or if he'd been out on a "public relations" mission alone. "I guess I wouldn't know..." A little grin tugged at the corner of his mouth. "But it sounds like it could be fun."

Finishing up the short shopping trip, then getting back to the house, Garret fell back into silence. And once inside, he went straight to the bedroom and closed the door. Though offered breakfast, he declined, along with lunch, simply remaining in bed, sometimes sleeping, sometimes not, and sometimes pretending, just to be left alone. He didn't like ignoring Maggie, but keeping his eyes closed was the best route to staying in his own little world for now. The morning...had worn him out, more mentally than physically.

By suppertime though, Laura had grown concerned. Garret had only had a little soup the day before and now had gone all day without anything but water. It wasn't good. She knew Nate was tired of pushing and prodding, as he should be. Garret was a grown man, after all, and there was only so much anyone could do. But despite her own reservations, she wasn't about to let him starve or sick again - not in her house.

Supper was in the oven. Chicken casserole. The aroma was enough to entice anyone to eat. Or so Laura hoped. Nate had told her Garret apparently had a thing for chocolate ice cream, so maybe that would help, too. Going to the dining room and finding Maggie, she smiled. "Hey...would you go see if Garret is awake? If he's not, just leave him be. But if he is, tell him he needs to come to supper...or I'm going to come in with my rolling pin." And she just might, depending.

Back in the bedroom, Garret was sitting up in bed, one knee tucked to his chest as he simply leaned back against the wall. He felt like he'd been in solitary confinement all day...of his own will. His body was begging him to eat, but he just didn't want to. His mind was a mess and he didn't know how to sort it out. He'd been left alone all day...maybe they'd finally given up on him. That's what he wanted, right? To just be left alone? But if that were the case, why hadn't he gone back to the Elite this morning? His mind wandered in so many different directions, it was exhausting. Or maybe it was the lack of food that was wearing him out.


Jason's jaw dropped and he let go of Katie's hand. "You wouldn't!" He eyes narrowed teasingly and he picked up his chopsticks again. "You would," he concluded.

He stuffed a piece of chicken in his mouth and cringed. "Spicy," he managed hoarsely and tried not to cough while also trying not to laugh at the same time. "Went down without me swallowing..." His eyes watered and he tried to chew quickly so if he did laugh, he wouldn't make a mess. He managed to keep it all in his mouth, but breathing was rather difficult until he could cough properly, then the laughter started. Maybe it was just a release if emotions after their rather tense conversation, but whatever the cause, he hid his face in his hand, trying not to make a scene as his shoulders shook and his face reddened.

Rat

Smiling at Jason and giving a small laugh at his comment Katie was thankful for his understanding, and his sense of humor. She needed than, and it helped he was willing to wait for her. It made her feel good, it made her feel special. 

   "Thank you Jason, for everything...and always just being you."

Looking down at the plates again Katie smiled a small twinkle in her eye. She felt...things were going to be ok and though she felt bad for Hunter she new there was a girl out there for him. He was a good guy, and a woman would be lucky to have him. Now she hoped he would stay clean, take care of himself, live.

   "Better eat the rest of your food or I'm going to have to rat to Rick you didnt."

They almost had everything the needed but the ice cream. Wondering to the freezer section and having Garret pick the ice cream he smiled and for a moment he saw a glint of humor in Garret's eye. 

   "I'd have to say Maggie would agree with you on that one. Throw it on in the cart."

Walking past some of the other items for ice cream Nate grabs nuts, whip cream and cherrys. If they were going to get junk food the might as well go all out with it and just be terrible.

   "Ok I think we have enough here for a sugar high?! Can you think of anything else we might need?"

Wondering past the bunks Ashlee smiles seeing Travis on the steps of his. Giving a wave she walks over. She had seen Angel was back so figured Travis was good. It was good to see him again and she was happy she would have someone to hang out with for a while.

   "Heya...how are you liking your own place? It's not much but its still pretty cool you get it to yourself."

Leaning on the railing Ashlee looks at Travis noticing the new scratch on his face. She wondered about it and what happened but something told her to just stay quiet, at least for now. It wasn't her place to pry to much.

   "Are you going to be coming to dinner tonight? I'll save you a seat."

Chocolate?

Jason couldn't blame Katie for giving herself time, and he knew it was probably wise. They'd both messed up...could they really make it work by trying yet again? He was willing if she was. Being without her had been a very real reminder of what she meant to him. As much as he'd tried so many times to deny it...he simply couldn't anymore. He loved her and it was that simple.

As she ran her thumb through his palm, he glanced down at it. He didn't know if hers was the same, but in his hand, the nerves around the circle scar remained incredibly sensitive. He didn't pull away though...he enjoyed her touch too much. 

"I can wait," he responded softly. "I've got three girls wanting dates, but I can hold them off a couple days at least." A teasing smile emerged to prove he was joking, and he wriggled her hand. "Just make sure what you decide is what you really want."


Garret was rather surprised about Reese, but he didn't voice his opinion. He remained quiet the rest of the drive, simply looking at the scenery while memorizing his surroundings so he could find his way again. 

Once at the store, he followed Nate in and wandered the aisles with him to pick up the few items for Laura. When it came to the freezer section though, he suddenly seemed to care about the choices. Opening one of the freezer doors, he pulled out a tub of chocolate ice cream and handed it to Nate. Though he held a straight face, his eyes gained a new little light. 

"I hear chocolate is the better flavor for getting over the flu." 

Travis finished putting his clothes in the dresser and sighed as he glanced around the bunkhouse. His bunkhouse. For...who knew how long? It was strange to think that this place was so suddenly his home. 

Flexing his hand, he stretched out his arm and winced a little. He'd overdone it today. Angel had warned him that the sprain would take quite a while to heal and though he was impatient, he knew she was right.

He wandered to the bathroom and stopped in front of the mirror. He was looking almost human again. Then there was the new mark. He touched it gingerly. It hadn't bled much, but it still stung. It looked like it might bruise just a little, too. 

Letting his head hang, he left the mirror. What was worse than his stinging cheek was his stinging heart. Angel had made the day so much more bearable and he'd always be grateful. But he wasnt sure that anything could ever erase the scars how own mother had created. It just...hurt. 

Weary from the day, but feeling cooped up, he exited the bunk and eased down on the porch step to just sit. He knew supper would be soon, but...he wasn't too sure he felt like joining in this time around.

Music blared from the radio as Hunter sped down the highway. He'd called in to work. He'd skip racing tonight. He just wanted to...be. Shifting gears, he increased his speed. 

Eventually he wound up at the lake, walking slowly along the beach. His thoughts and emotions were all topsy turvy and he wasn't sure which direction to go anymore. Stopping to stare out at the water, he finally pulled his phone from his pocket and dialed. 

"Hello?"

"Hey."

"Hunter?"

"Yeah."

"Well hi there. What's up?"

"I fell off the wagon and need somebody to tell me I'm an idiot."

"You're an idiot."

Hunter almost smiled. 

"What happened?"

"Katie and I are done."

"Oh no. I'm so sorry."

"Eh... I shouldn't have been surprised. Maybe I wasn't really at all. Still stings to come in second though."

"Uh oh..."

"Yeah."

"Jason?"

"How'd you guess?" Hunter scuffed the sand as he walked and talked, venting and listening both. And in the end, it was a quiet ride back home. But at least by the time he went to bed, he'd given up the notion of any more drinking, and was able to face the night.

Few days

Feeling Jason's hand on her own Katie could feel the warmth, it was a warmth like no one else had. Now having his hand in her own Katie new how much she really had missed it, missed Jason.  How foolish they both had been. They spent time searching for something new,  when all they needed was right in front of them.

   "I guess we both have had our fair share of blunders, and that's something we need to work on among other things. "

As Jason brought her hand to his lips Katie closed her eyes. He was the best thing that ever happened to her. Jason completed her, made her whole, and see life in a whole new light. Con had asked her if she was ready to continue fighting, and the answer was a very simply one, and yet so hard. 

   "Just give me a few days to think things over. I'm not saying no, and I'm not saying yes. I just have to make sure I am ready before I jump back into another relationship. I don't want to hurt you again J and I want to make sure of that this time."

She wasn't sure if Jason would understand but she hoped so. Katie loved Jason will all her heart, and she was pretty sure what her heart was telling her, but she just needed to make sure if was the right direction. 

Moving Jason's hand slight Katie locks her fingers with his. Her thumb rubbing the scar on the inside of his hand. They may not be connected emotionally anymore, but they had always been connected, some thing people so rarely ever experances. 

   "Will you wait for me...just a few day to figure everything out?"

Starting forward Nate glanced at Garret. He looked so much better than he had, but he still looked tired. He was happy he was going to stay and get more strength. Hearing his question he thought for a moment. 

   "No actually. He knows you are staying with me and...he didn't complain at all."

Continuing to drive Nate took a few turns, and stopped at a light.

   "Reese really is a good guy when you get to know him. I think he is finally trusting you a little more."

Still here

Jason remained quiet as Katie spoke, trying to understand all she said. He wore no smile, but a look that was almost sad. Her admittance of love sent a pang so strong to his heart that it almost physically hurt, and his stare lowered once more to the table.

Pushing his plate aside, he slowly reached across the table and took Katie's hand in his. Just feeling her touch at long last seemed to relax his entire body and soul. His thumb ran over her fingers like it had so many times before. His eyes rained down as he tried to swallow his emotions.

"You shouldn't tell me not to be sorry... I've...messed up so many times with you. All those times you couldn't let me go..." He shrugged. "I didn't help any. Just like this time."

He finally looked up to catch her eye as his grip tightened around her hand. "I never stopped loving you either, Katie. Never. Even...when I had others, my heart just...kept coming back to you. Then I'd get scared and...mess it up again." He gave a short scoff. "Maybe I was just always afraid of losing myself in you when... I should have realized you made me whole."

He lifted her hand to his lips to kiss it softly. "I'll understand if you don't want to be with me again. It's never been easy with us and... I will respect that decision." He paused, still holding her hand. "But if you do change your mind... I'm still here."

Anymore

Looking at Jason Katie could see his regret and it pained her. She didn't want him to be sorry for how he felt. The emotions of the heart couldn't be helped. No one could be blamed for that.

   "Please don't be sorry. If anyone is sorry it's me. I messed things up with us. I over reacted and wouldn't hear anything youd had to say. I jumped in a relationship again to soon."

Katie is silent for a second just thinking about her words. She'd gone this far she might as well tell him the rest.

   "I've hurt so many people because I tried to stop loving you, and i just...couldn't let you go."

Taking a sip of her hot tea Katie let the hot liquid slide down her throat. So many things to think about, so many emotions.

   "I love you J, I never stopped loving you.  But I just need to work though a lot of things because even though I hurt you this last time, you've hurt me so many times before and before I just jump back in...I've gotta make sure this is what I want so I don't hurt anyone anymore."

Never could

Garret bit his lip to keep from laughing at Maggie's teasing. He really hadn't meant to startle Nate, altho he supposed he was used to walking rather quietly. 

At the top of the stairs, Laura held Brian and glanced down to Nate, blinking in surprise. Garret had just walked out... hadn't he? "Oh...okay. Well you two have fun." She smiled, thrilled that Garret apparently was staying. "Oh, and Nate, grab some ice cream...might be a nice treat tonight."

Garret followed Nate outside and to the car, sliding in on the passenger side. He closed his eyes and leaned his head back, glad he was feeling better today but still impatient about gaining back his energy. As they started forward, he opened his eyes again. At the very least, he was getting to know his way around town. 

"So... Reese been giving you a bad time about me being on the loose again?"


Jason almost dropped his chopsticks. His eyes searched Katie's in shock and bewilderment. A chill ran down his spine. What was she saying? Was it what he thought it was?

"I... I don't know what to say." He set aside his utensils before he really did drop them on the floor. "I am...so sorry." He swallowed hard. The expression on his face really did reflect his regret. "I never should have found you in the crowd like that, I just... it..." He stopped and fiddled with his water glass, finally dropping his gaze. His appetite had fled.

After a long pause, he finally looked back up at her. His shoulders sank just a little. "I couldn't help it. If I would have known it would cause this... I should have just found someone else to be there to watch my back." He pursed his lips. "You've just always been my hero... I guess maybe I forgot things weren't the same anymore."

He took a sip of water before taking another moment to study her face. "Are we really both feeling the same way? 'Cause...I thought I was on the losing team with this one." His voice grew quieter. "I tried to stop caring about you but... I just never could."

Because of you...

Giving Laura a light kiss on the head he gave her a hug. He didn't want her blaming herself at all. This wasn't her fault, not his fault, not Garret's or anyone. This was just another walk in life.

   "You have been wonderful and dont think any differently."

As she leaves to check on Brian Nate turns and looks in the fridge to grab something to drink before he left. Finally settling on a bottle of cold water he cracks it open before and downs a little. Turning around and seeing Garret followed by his voice Nate jumps not even knowing he had come back inside.

   "Goodness man...we need to put a bell on you. I didn't even hear you come back in."

From over in the other door way Maggie poked her head around the corner laughing hysterically looking between Garret and Nate.

    "He got you good Nate...you should of seen the look on your face."

Rolling his eyes at his sister he throws the water bottle cap gently at her as she ducked back into the room squealing. Looking back to Garret he smiles. He didn't expect him to come back but he was really happy he did. Who new what the outcome was still but this was another step.

   "I think I remember something about that..lets go."

Heading out to the hallway Nate looks up the steps to Laura was.

   "Garret and I are heading out to the store babe. We will be back."

Hearing Jason's reply Katie searches his eyes wondering if he was telling her everything. As he continued to go into more detail and looked down again for a second grabbing a green bean and taking a bite of it. He was opening up to her more than he had before. Even if it wasn't as much as some people would want it was a good step in the right direction.

   "Being a human target for a crime organization that no one believes is out there can really mess with people's emotions and make them tired. I don't blame ya for being worn out."

Hearing Jason's words about missing her Katie looked up again quickly. She was sure her mouth was hanging open with a half chewed bean. She was happy Jason's eyes were shut as she closed her mouth and continued to chew. That was not what she expected to have him say or hear today. Had Con been right...was Jason really that miserable.

   "I think its impossible to forget something like that when...deep down you have been feeling the same way."

Looking down at her plate Katie looks at her food for a long moment. Hunter had been right, she was missing Jason, she did still love him too and while it made her feel horrible, it made her feel warm too. Should she talk to Jason about what happened with Hunter? Was this the right time? Would it make her feel better?

    "Hunter...got drunk last night, and ended up breaking things off because of you..."

Katie looked up for a second looking at Jason and new she had to explain more.

   "He was at the concert last night and I guess....we have a look that speaks more words than both of us admit. I guess....he was right."

Missed you

Despite Garret's desire to remain in control, as Nate spoke, his eyes drifted to the floor. Was he really holding himself back? But what else was he supposed to do? Was it really that he wasn't trusting these people? This family? He hadn't thought leaving the Agency would mean he would become an entirely different person and...if he was completely honest...it was frightening.

Yet to make up his mind, he realized Nate had just walked away, and he put a hand to his throbbing head. No. No, he just couldn't do this. It was too much. Too hard. Not worth it. At least staying at the Elite, even in a tiny room, he was surrounded by people and things and jobs he could related to. It was still foreign, but not as foreign as this. He'd thought all that had been hard, but it was nothing compared to this. These people. These hated, confusing emotions. He'd wanted to get out of the Agency to escape the madness of being a robot...but at least as a robot, he hadn't faced all these ridiculous issues. 

Finally making up his mind, he grabbed his ball cap to slap it on his head, donned his jacket, and slung his backpack over his shoulder. On some level he was grateful for the care he'd received, but it was time to move on. 

In the kitchen, Laura looked up as Nate came back, taking note of the look on his face. Something wasn't good, and she had a feeling it had to do with Garret. Hearing about the little discussion, she sighed and was just ready to respond when she saw Garret pass by the kitchen on his way to the front door. "Well...you tried." She gave Nate a look of apology. "I'm sorry. I know I haven't helped any. He seemed really bothered by what I told him earlier, I just couldn't lie to him." She was going to say more until Brian's crying from upstairs interrupted her. "I better go check and see what he needs. I'll be back." 

Garret made it all the way out the front door and onto the porch when his ears picked up the sound of Brian crying. Just as he was ready to take to the steps, he stopped. The upstairs window must be open, otherwise he wouldn't still hear it. It wouldn't take long, he knew, for Laura or Nate to take care of it. He might have been sick, but if he'd noticed one thing, it was that both parents took their jobs seriously, never once neglecting Brian or even Maggie for that matter. What made them care? What made them love? Garret had been so young when he'd been handed over to the Agency, and he wasn't supposed to remember anything at all of that exchange. But it would be burned in his mind forever, along with the realization that he had not been wanted, cared for or loved. He'd lived with that knowledge the rest of his life. Until...he'd come here. 

He turned and looked at the closed door. But what about his job? What about who he was? His skill sets? His killing instincts? His inability to understand this world outside the Agency? Where did all that fit? Even Nate had said he'd always be a fish out of water. So what was the point in trying to fit in anywhere? Or...was trying to fit in really the point? Wasn't his original goal to simply find out what life could be outside the Agency and be free from that noose around his neck? It was just...so different out here than he'd imagined. But Nate was right... and Garret knew he was fighting him every step of the way... and it was wearing him out. 

Hearing the crying stop, Garret turned back around and stared out at the street, then back at the door. Reentering the house, he retraced his steps back to the room, left his backpack, then returned, stopping by the kitchen to see Nate. "Thought you were going to the store..." 


Jason felt bad for Katie. He knew this had to be hard. He didn't know what had happened between her and Hunter, but whether it was her choice or his, it was never a happy thing. He understood that she would have a lot on her mind.

Asked about himself, he paused his chewing and cocked his head. She wasn't just politely asking...she really wanted to know. He finished his mouthful before leaning back in his seat and thinking for a moment. "Oh... I'm alright." He gave her a grin. "I'm always alright, you know that." 

A shrug followed before his eyes sank to the table. "It's been...kinda rough lately. Besides the whole got somebody out to kill me thing. I mean, I've got the band but...other than that...it's just been...work." He eventually looked back up at her. "Been tired. Rick keeps telling me to watch my sugar levels so that's probably the same old thing. I dunno. Nothing been happening besides all that."

He searched her eyes. "I've missed you," he admitted quietly. As soon as he'd said it he regretted it, and scrunched his eyes shut. "I'm sorry... you probably didn't want to hear that. Forget I said it." 

Always a Fish

Nate looks at Garret for a long moment just studying him. He didn't really know what to say anymore honestly. He'd tried, and he had kept trying but he didn't know how much longer he could.  You could only help someone so long before it was time for them to help themselves. 

   "Here we go you not putting trust in us again. If Laura was scared of you, you wouldn't be here still, if Maggie wanted you to live up to anything other than who you are she'd tell you. She actually has been a lot better since you have been around. And me I think you can be normal, because I know you can be. But you can't...and thats whats holding you back."

Nate shifted a little just studying Garret for a moment. He wanted to go, should he let him go? Would holding him here against his will help him? Nate didn't think so but letting him go made him feel like a failure. Maybe it was time to let him go.

   "You can leave with me and go to the store, or you can walk back to the Elite. I'm not going in today, so I dont plan on going there or they will find something for me to do. It's your choice though Garret. I can't hold you here if you don't want to be here. You'll always be a fish out of water, but at least here you have a little bit of water to catch your breath in."

Not saying anything else Nate turned and head to the kitchen to wait a few moments just to see what Garret would do. If he wanted to go back, he could, he'd make it ok, but Nate couldn't force him to stay, not anymore.

Pulling her Wong tong apart Katie was enjoying the meal. It was quiet and she didn't mind that her mind was still processing and spinning as she works through things. Having realized Jason had said something to her Katie looked up at him and gave a small smile. She didn't really know how she was but she new she would be ok.

    "I will be, promise. Just a lot floating around up here at the moment."

Katie pointed at her head before poping the rest of her Wong tong in her mouth. Falling silent again while she chewed Katie studied Jason for a long moment. It was nice to be sitting here even if it was work. He was always such good company. 

   "Enough about me, how are you feeling? Besides the shot in your leg that is. "

Katie wondered if Jason would open up to her. They hadnt talked much and she did wondered how he was. Yesterday he seemed tired, today  all things considered he looked ok, but she still wondered.

Smiling at Travis as he walked away Angel layed a hand on Lane's arm and smiled up at him. She really was happy to have helped and been there for Travis. It meant a lot to her and for now Travis 's secret was safe with her.

   "You are welcome Lane. I was happy I could help. I'm pretty sure he will be around for a while. He's a good kid. You did a good job doing the best you could."

Fish out of water

Garret looked up quickly as Nate came into the room, and immediately bristled. He was feeling crowded enough the way it was. Finishing off his shoelace, he sat up and just sighed. Did Nate realize he had been preparing to leave? He wondered. 

"Look...it's time for me to go back to the Elite." His body was still trying to recover, and he was already exhausted from being up this short while, but he wasn't sure how much more of this he could take. Standing up, his tired eyes met Nate's. "I've traumatized your wife, Maggie's got me on a pedestal I'll never live up to, and you apparently think I'm capable of being human in spite of thirty-one years of Agency programming." He shook his head. "I don't think I can do this. Just...I'll leave with you now, but take me back to the Elite." His tone was more quiet and lost than angry. "I didn't think it could worse than being stuck in that room, but maybe I was wrong. I'm a fish out of water and I'm dying out here."


As Katie agrees to lunch, Jason finds himself smiling. "How about Chinese?" It felt nice to be going to get lunch with her. They'd had coffee a few times as of late, and it felt like maybe finally they were getting to be friends again.

It didn't take long to get to Tou Han's, and as they sat across from each other, Jason couldn't help but study her face...her eyes. He felt almost guilty. She'd just broken up with Hunter, and he wasn't meaning to take advantage of the situation - he just wanted to be able to relax and see her smile. But it still felt a little awkward. Maybe because there was something down deep in his heart that still stirred when he was around her.

Dropping his gaze to his food, he took another bite of chicken. "So...you doing okay?"


Travis appreciated the long ride back to the ranch. He wasn't sure Angel was purposely taking it more slowly than earlier or not, but regardless, it gave him a little extra time to mentally prepare for whatever his dad might say or ask. 

Once back, it was no surprise Lane met them as they parked. He was just relieved they were both back in one piece without a police escort. "Hey...you made it back." 

"Uh-huh." Travis threw Angel one last glance before sliding out of the cab. Most all his new things had been thrown into a new bag as well, so it wouldn't be so obvious they'd been shopping. "You think we wouldn't?"

"Well no..." Lane shrugged. Maybe a little. He frowned when he caught sight of his son's face. Was that a new cut? "Hey, what happened to your face?" 

Travis smirked. "Remember that time I shut my own head in your car door?" He moved to the bed of the truck and grabbed the two bags, then swung back around to his dad. "Don't ask."

Lane bit his lip to keep from laughing. "I won't. This all your stuff?"

"Yeah. Good enough for now anyway." He started for Angel's office as his temporary place, but Lane stopped him. 

"I think you're going the wrong way."

"What?"

Lane thumbed towards the bunkhouses. "Number seven. You have Jade and Wendy to thank for getting it ready for you."

Travis' eyebrows rose and he looked at Angel, then back to his dad. "You mean..."

"It's all yours for as long as you want, approved by Rosetta and Mick." 

Travis couldn't help a little smile. "Okay." 

As he headed that direction, Lane just let him go, but neared Angel. "Thanks...for helping him today and bringing him back. I was a little worried he might decide to stay with his mom once he got there."