Asleep

JT waits until Katie is gone before looking back to Austin and Con.

Austin eyes him skeptically. “There’s something you haven’t said.”

“No…” JT shakes his head.

“But you’re not quite as confident as what you said.”

JT shrugs. “I guess not, but if anyone needs to stay positive, it’s Katie. I find it hard to be confident about anything that can’t be explained, and things like this just can’t be predicted or understood completely.” He studies Austin closely for several moments. “The last eighteen years have been hard on you.”

Austin leans back in his chair, now even more skeptical. “Who are you, Doctor? Why are you helping us? I saw you avoiding security and law checks so we wouldn’t have any hassles. What gives?”

JT gives a slight smile. “A long time ago I saw your gang in turmoil, then they vanished into thin air. My guess is that something has cropped up again, bringing a lot of you back together again…”



Monitors beep quietly in the dim room. Jason lies peacefully still, his eyes closed in quiet sleep. Bandages line his arms, and stitches are visible along his face. Though bruises have become more prominent, the swelling has gone down, making his face look even thinner. His breathing is rhythmic and calm, his rough hand enveloping Katie’s as she holds it.


Mick follows the van as it winds around town, making stops at a quick mart and gas station. He sighs as they wait for a red light. “These guys don’t even seem like they’re in a hurry anymore. Do you think they’re on to us?”



Becky chuckles and leans down to help Wendy. “Be patient – you’ll be out of that chair in no time.” She helps to start making preparations. “I think a salad is a splendid idea. What do you have in mind?”