6/14/08

CELABRATION!

*For a moment as the judge speaks and the words of being guilty are hurd Lockheart's heart sinks. How could this happen.

A small gasp escapes Katie's lips. No, they coulent all go to jail. Lockheart had done so good, she had made a strong case.*

* A tear rolls from Rosetta's eye as her grip tighten around Mick's hand. Her Ranch, her home, her friends....all gone.*

*The chatter and gasps, mermers continue untill the sound of the judges gavel is hurd when all falls silent again. No one quit understanding what was going on.

As the judge continues and the rest of what he has to say it hurd, as the names are read off, name of the past, faces forgoten but remembered. Names of people who dident even know this hearing was going on stricken clean. Faces break off into smiles, joy fills hearts bringing hope.

Finally when the draws to a close and the room goes crazy everyone stands. Excitment, hope running through the air.

Lockhear smiles back at Reese. Her face bright a beaming. It felt good to know these people were free now.*

"It was my pleasesure Reese. I am glad it worked out for the best."

*For a moment Misty forgets about her ingorys and stands jumping into Carson's arms and wraping her legs around him wincing once but not caring.*

"Like I mind being stuck with you."

*Misty rolls her eyes and leans in pressing her lips to Carson's.

Beaming Aerith throws her arms around Wyatt.*

"Thank you Lord...thank you."

*Squeezing Wyatt alittle tighter Aerith cant help but start to giggle as she draws away.*

"Oh I'm so happy you guys won Wyatt. This is wonderful."

*Katie returns Scott's kiss with enthusasum. Kaite's heart sang for joy. One capter in life was closed and another was now open. What more could she ask for.

Nate stands and embraces Laura. A million emotions running through his mind.*

"We did, We'er free."

*As Jamie is lifted into the air wraped in Con's arms she cant help but let out a stong laugh that runs out through the court room. The joy, the releaf was over welming. Giving Con a Kiss on the lips till her lets her down Jamie cant help but let out a whoop of her own...yelling.*

"DINNER TO CELABRATE AT MOM AND POP'S LETS GO!!!!"

*Jamie makes her way to the door pulling Con along in excitment. Followed by everyone alse.*

Ruling

Lockheart's words drive hope into those waiting. Her courage, her passion…it is what they all felt and all desired to express. Honor rested among them…humility for the acts they had done without prior praise. Recognition was not something they were used to, but here and now, it felt good. No matter what happened, no one regretted their involvement with TJY.

As Lockheart finishes and sits next to Reese and turns his head to give her a nod, expressing his gratitude. His eyes reflect his feelings that she had done her best, for the best of TJY and no one else could have done better.

Those at the ranch listen intently, drawn in by what was happening. All await the judge’s response.

Judge Mills leans back in his chair and scans the eyes that look upon him. The room is deathly quiet. One could hear a pin drop. Someone’s foot scuffs the floor, making someone else jump. A bird flutters by one of the windows, an unnecessary annoyance rising as the tension continues.

Fingering his gavel, Judge Mills remains deep in thought, not allowing the quietness to pressure him into a quick decision.

He glances down to sift through his papers once more before finally raising his head again. “We will recess. Please reconvene in forty-five minutes.”

As he rises from his seat, the TJY group sinks lower in their chairs. They just wanted to know the verdict. Some rise to stretch their legs. The policemen at the doors allow them to move about and leave the room to use the restrooms or the water fountain.

Carson bounces his leg nervously and goes for a pack of gum. Jason paces in the corner. Others just sit and wait, silent, with no words to speak.

The forty-five minutes seem to take an eternity. But right on time, the judge returns, forcing everyone back into their seats, eyes forward once again. No one dares murmur a sound.

Judge Mills’ voice takes over the room once more. “Never in all my years as a judge have I ever come across a case even close to this one. Never have I had anything even close to what I’m hearing now. It really is absurd. An underground corporation of vigilantes? But the proof is here.” He holds up a stack of papers, including those Lockheart had given him. “You exist, and apparently this thing called the Agency exists as well.”

He scans the expectant faces. “I don’t think I have to remind you all that everyone here deserves to spend time behind bars one way or another. Despite your desperation, feeling alone, and longing to help others, your actions have not only gone above the law, but in some cases have been downright illegal.”

Several TJY staff swallow hard. Scott’s fingers tighten around Katie’s. Jason sits rigid in his seat, his knuckles growing white from the fists he holds in his lap. Con keeps his grip on Jamie’s hand. Laura’s eyes shift to the side, searching for reassurance in Nate. Wyatt stiffens, ready for Aerith needing to leave. Carson grits his teeth, feeling Misty next to him, and finding it hard not to run. All are quiet. All are tense.

Judge Mills continues. “All of you deserve punishment in one form or another. The case I see is black and white. I honestly have no legal reason to let you off the hook, despite your willingness to come forward, and your strong defense.”

Hearts begin to sink. This was it. This was the end.

The mess hall at the ranch is deathly still. All eyes remain glued to the screen as they hear what’s happening. This wasn’t good. The judge was aiming in the wrong direction. No…he couldn’t do this. Not after Lockheart’s words. Not after her plea that exposed the very heart of TJY.

Judge Mills’ face remain solemn. “My ruling is as follows. I find TJY, its employees and all affiliates in state and out…guilty.”

Eyes widen in shock. Jaws drop. Shock like a wave surges across the courtroom.

The ranch messhall sits in stunned silence. After all their work…after that speech by Lockheart – how could this be happening?!

Cindy chokes on a muffled sob as she tries not to distract from what the others are viewing.

Mumblings break out across the courtroom as irritation rises. There is hurt and anger. No one understands how this could be happening. Not after all that Lockheart and Sheriff Brown had done. Not after all their efforts.

The judge raps his gavel on the stand loudly. “Order!” he demands. “Or you’ll all be held in contempt of court.” He watches and waits until there is silence again.
“The sentencing is as follows: Those employed by TJY, and its affiliates in and out of state are hereby sentenced to…considering commitments and contracts, signing on to a new branch of law enforcement – the Elite.”

Eyes widen even further. What was going on?

Judge Mills continues matter-of-factly. “Anyone may consider not joining the Elite, but if not an employee, they must remain uninvolved in future cases, and if interfering with this law enforcement, will be treated as civilian.” He picks up several sheets of paper. “Along with your obligations to upholding the law, whether part of the Elite or not, and considering past heroisms, comes the state of Nevada’s obligations to recognize the efforts of TJY and its band of vigilantes for the help they have provided to law enforcement. Upon this recognition, the state of Nevada hereby grants pardons to the following persons. This does not mean that criminal acts outside of lawful efforts, such as by those who may have been employed by the Agency, have gone ignored, however, I feel it is more worth to start with clean slates than dredge up individual crimes. Therefore, the names are: Michael Henson, Rosetta Pent, James and Rebecca Henson, Tyler Henson, Wes and Cindy Henson…” The names continue to be rattled off.

Those in the courtroom and those at the ranch are on the edges of their seats, all waiting to hear their names. Hope had been restored. Was this really happening this way? Was it really, truly turning out how they had hoped and prayed it would?

“…Angel Lachey, Wendy Lachey, Luke Trahern…Samantha Henson…Annie Henson…Trent Pent…”

Trent sinks down further in his chair, stunned. Of all people, he should have been stricken from that list.

“…Austin Stevenson…Casey (Carter) Stevenson…Nathaniel Driers…Conrad Gibbs…Laura Gibbs…” The names continue, listing everyone from far and wide, who had ever touched on any case either involving the Agency, or dealing directly with TJY. “Greg Timble, Dr. Jack Timble, Xander Trahern…Jeffrey Pent, Eric Pent…Derek Stevenson…”

Jason tenses just a little, hearing the name of his father. It sounded strange…he’d seen it in print when going through old files, but hearing it aloud felt…just strange.

“…Jason Stevenson…Katherine Pent…Scott Johnson, Sapphire Johnson…Misty Miller…Carson Banks…”

Though assuming it was coming, Carson feels a strange pang as his name is read. He was pardoned…Him…of all people…the worst of the worst… being pardoned….it was…humbling.

“…Rick and Janet Johnston…Wesley Sanders…Allen Bryers…Angelica Lockheart…Mike Reese, Wyatt Reese…Mississippi Lachey…Trish Anderson…Jamie Franklin…Clint Henson, Rosalynn Henson, Tyler Baker-Henson…Melanie Thomas…Damien Shaw…” Name after name after name…those with TJY, those from Texas, family members, those heavily involved in work, those who simply knew of their work. “…Gary Miles…Hal Timbs…”

The list goes on until Judge Mills is finally finished reading off the names. Drawing them to a close, he sets his paper down, though still speaks. “Any names omitted from this list may submit requests to be pardoned that I will grant as I see fit.”

He looks out on all the faces again. “Details regarding the forming and employment of the Elite is now handed over to Sheriff Brown. He will deal with individuals and process as he sees fit outside of this courtroom.”

Pausing again, he scans the stunned expressions, and a trace of a smile can be seen on his stern face. “Court adjourned. Now please – I have a murder trial next, and I need this room.” Feeling the shocked silence, he waves them off. “So get out of here and celebrate your win, or I’m going to drag you all back in here again!”

Suddenly someone lets out a whoop and everyone is on their feet.

Con stands abruptly, and grabs Jamie, lifting her off her feet and spinning her around.

Reese tilts his head back and closes his eyes, letting out a long slow breath of relief. Turning, he looks to Lockheart. “Thank you…”

Carson stands with the others and grins at Misty, his eyes regaining their spark. “Looks like you’re still stuck with me.”

Wyatt breaths a sigh of relief and he can’t help his smile as he turns to Aerith. “I can’t believe we did it…we really did it…” His hand tightens around hers. “I guess I’ll get that hug after all.”

Jason leans his back up against the wall, just closing his eyes for a moment, his hands in his pockets. It was over…the hiding was over…and best of all – he would not have to go back to prison. Relief wasn’t half of what he felt. Opening his eyes, he scans his coworkers…his friends. Their lives would still be changing, but it was in the right direction this time. Giving a little nod, he’s one of the first to head out of the courtroom.

Scott’s head whips around to Katie, his eyes wide. Slowly a smile spreads. Without needing to say anything, he draws her close and plants a kiss on her lips, not caring who was there or watching.

Laura gets to her feet, bouncing just a little as she looks to Nate, her smile spreading from ear to ear. “We won! We really won!”

Cheers break out through the mess hall back at the ranch as excitement can’t be contained. Tears of joy stream down faces. Hugs, laughter and loud chatter can’t be contained.

The Hearing

*The ride to the court room is quiet. The questions on everyone's minds but the words not spoken for fear it would only make them true. Everyone clings to those they hold near. Some have there heads bowed as they pray.

Aeirth hold Wyatt's hand the whole way to the court house. Her other hand on top. Silent prayers fill her mind. Finally arriving Aerith hand slips from Wyatts geting out of the car.

As everyone makes they way into the court room hearts race and nervs are high. Finding there seats everywaits not knowing what is to come.

Katie keeps her eye glued forward watching, waiting...wondering.

Jamie stands close to Con, slightly leaning on him. Feeling his comfort. Whispering softly*

"I love you."

*Than turning her attachen back to the judges stand.*

Nate keeps his fingers wraped around Laura's giving them a gentil aqueeze.

Lockheart takes her place at a small table infront of the judges stand. Opening her brefcase and takeing out papers, files, and envilopes.*

*Rosetta clings to Mick as they watch the TV. Katie can slightly be made out. Seeing her siting there was sad knowing she was drawn into this hurt even more. Life was starting to turn out good, Rosetta's own family being built and yet today all that could be taken away. Clinging alittle tighter Rosetta waits pashently.

Wes wraps his arm around Cindy holding her close. Giving her the comfort she despretly needed. Feeling her warmth close to him gave his own hope everything would be ok.

Angel sits with Luke her own paulse racing. Angel smiles at her eyes meet Lukes for a moment before there attachen was taking back to the TV, the court was about to start.*

*As the Judge calls to Lockheart her paulse races. Gathering up her papers Lockheart stalls for time to calm herself. Blocking all emotions except confadence from her mind Lockheart stands and draws closer to the judge clearing her throught.*

"I make my opening statement saying the state convicts innocent people all the time; we don’t always look at what is right and what is true. We often are quick to pass judgment before details are met, and getting the whole story. Sometimes it’s easier for us to believe what we think we see than to believe what is really true and have faith. You’re path is hard choosing to take ones life or give them life. So reach into the depths of your heart now and listen what I have to say about these people. Open your eyes for me and your hearts so these people can be herd.*

*Lockheart turns and gesturs to the TJY staff. Her eyes finding Reese and gaining even more condence, than Dart to Katie's she was so young, she couldent go to jail, than to Jasons, she lets him down once she couldent do it again. Turning again Lockheart continues.

Going through what she can trying not to leave out details. Going over what she had planed out and taking everything father into detailed. Everything Lockheart spoke was the truth according to Reese and a few others she talked to. With this there as no skimming, no hiding what went on. EVERYTHING was out and open.

Stoping Lockheart walks back to the table and grabs a very large vanilla envilope. Walking to the judges stand with it Lockheart hands it to him.*

"I also have some new evidence that was presented to me last night. Samantha Henson who is now desisted had these file for a while that were being kept for her. How they got into my hands I can not say. I was promised to my own silence. But I went over the papers, files and everything in there is legit. Its more proof that the Agency does exists, and what these people at TJY do is for the right reason."

*Once again Lockheart draws silent as she flips through pages with the judge revealing names, places, acts by the agency. Also followed up by photos, letters, names and acts of good TJY had done. Sam had everything written out, everything laminated, filed by times, times, place, names. That single file held more information than all of TJY could ever dream of having. There was even information about BJ, about what happen with Katie’s mother and brother, everything. Everything dating back to when Rosetta, Mick, Annie, the whole gang was born and taken. From what it looked like Sam had been working on this for a long time, waiting for a moment like this to come.

Time seems to pass slow but als it does not. Before anyone knows it at least an hour had gone by as Lockheart's Strong voice rang out through the court room. Her confadence, her passion showing through bringing hope to those who had little. Offering light to those who were in dark till finally Lockheart was drawing to an end of her talking.*

"…So in concluding I say these cases that TJY has worked on for many years. The good they have done. Many bad people are behind bars because of this underground corporation. Many unexplained things have been brought to a case that has helped catch those to deserve to be put away. Would we condemn a super hero for saving the word? Would we turn away a super hero who catches the robber, or the rapist? No we would write in the papers about the hero that saved lives, we would stand in aw at the chance to get a glimpse of the hero that caught the guy trying to destroy an innocent life. So I ask you what is so different with this group of people. They are our heroes here in Nevada and around the world. They have take bullets for the innocent, shed blood for the weak, and some have even died to save another life. They resuse the person who was being raped or the guy that’s life flashed before his eyes as his throat was going to be slit. They saved the wrongly accused and always put themselves before others risking there life to die for the innocent. Yes…these are our heroes. There are the people I want to know are around the corner as my child walks home from school, As I go out to my car in the middle of the night. These are the people I am honored to call friends, my heroes. Never have they receved a thanks for saving my life, Thanks for not leting me die. Never have they asked for money for what they did, they hid in the shadows finding joy in knowing what they did was right....These are our heros, our Angels."

*Lockhearts gaze once again drifts across the room to all the many faces looking back at her. A smile crossing her lips. Looking back to the judge much feeling in what she had just said and her eyes portrayed it. Lockheart turns but doesn’t take her place at the table but instead she goes and sits with the people from TJY. Siting in the only empty seat next to Reese. If they were to go down so was she. Everything she had worked for, her business would be gone, her career destroyed, but it’s was worth it to stand up for these people. To do what was right. She was one of them in one way or another now.*


Court

Everyone ready to leave stands in silence as Lockheart speaks. Though no one knows what will happen, and though this time is grim, her strong words seem to provide strength to those who need it. No matter what, they were proud of who they were and what they had done through TJY.

Reese gives Lockheart a nod as she finishes. Looking over his staff, he grows a little solemn. “Whatever happens today guys…you have been the best staff anyone could ask for. I’m proud to not only call you my employees, but to call you my friends. Thank you for putting your heart, souls and lives on the line for the cause of TJY. It’s been an honor.”

Giving another short, decisive nod, he claps his hands. “Alright! Everybody load up, or we’re going to be late!” He gestures to Lockheart. “I’m driving van two – you can ride shotgun with me.”


Wyatt shakes his head at Aerith. “No, I don’t know yet. I think it will be okay though…we’ll just have to see if the bailiff will let you in. Probably if you just stick with me, you can slip in without anyone questioning.”

He turns his head for just a moment, keeping one eye on the road. “Thanks for coming, Aerith…it means a lot. If things go south today…it might get kind of crazy, so all I need you to do is get out fast if that happens so you don’t get caught in the middle. Then go straight back to Mom and Pop’s so they can help you out.”

Wyatt reaches a hand over to take Aerith’s. “But just keep praying that doesn’t happen.”

After a few minutes as they pull onto the highway to head to the next town, Wyatt chuckles. “Great timing.” Coming down the road are three black vans. “There’s the gang. We’ll slip in behind them.”


The trip takes them half an hour. To some it seems long, to others it seems too short. Friends sit near each other to offer support, though not many words are said. Those in love clasp hands, trying to give each other comfort and hope. So much was at stake…so much on the line.

As the large courthouse comes into view, the vans file into the parking lot along with Wyatt’s jeep. Parking in a row, everyone gets out and waits for Reese and Lockheart to lead the way.

Reese gives one last glance over his people, then to Lockheart. “Let’s go.”

The small crowd receive many strange glances from passers by, looking at them with question. Who were they? What were they doing here? Were they good or bad, heading into court?

Up the steps and inside the wide open foyer, Sheriff Brown is waiting. He steps forward, offering his hand to Reese then Lockheart. Relief shows on his face. “I trusted you guys, but it’s good to see you actually came.” His eyes scan the others. “Wow…you do have quite a base.”

Reese chuckles. “This is just who’s in the office.”

“Alrighty then…” Brown takes a deep breath, letting it out slowly. “Follow me. Judge Mills will be here soon and the proceedings are to start in twenty minutes.”

The whole group marches down the tiled halls until they reach two tall doors that lead into a large courtroom filled with more than enough seats. Reese gestures to everyone. “If you could all please find your seats, I would appreciate it. I know from Reese you all are honorable people, but it’s my job to remind you to remain respectful, quiet unless spoken to, and above all, cause no riots or you will only make things worse for yourselves. I want this thing to work out as much as any of you, because I’ve been convinced what you people have been doing is right. But my job is to help keep peace.”

Understanding and complying, the TJY group begins to find their seats.

Scott breaks away to approach Brown himself, offering a handshake even though his stomach was in knots from nervousness. “Hi, I’m Scott Johnson.”

“Ah, yes.” Brown nods as he shakes his hand. “You’re the tech guy.”

“That’s right.”

“Good. We got everything set up just how Reese said you’d need it, so feel free to come on over and do what you have to do.”

Scott holds up his cell phone. “I’ll have to call up to the Texas ranch so they can be set up too.”

“No problem.”

Scott glances behind him to find Katie and gives her a little wink. He knew she’d save a seat next to her for him.

It doesn’t take Scott long to get the camera set up, and after calling Pete to get things going at the ranch, everything was in place.

The courtroom grows quiet. Scott’s hand is around Katie’s as they wait. Laura sits nervously next to Nate. Con has an arm around Jamie, trying not to think of the worst. Carson is next to Misty with his fingers entwined in hers. Jason sits off to the side surrounded by a few empty seats, letting his own thoughts run rampant. Wyatt, who had received permission to let Aerith in, sits with her quietly near the back.


The mess hall at the ranch sits in silence as all eyes focus on the screen. It was a wide shot of the courtroom, showing just the edge of the crowd that was there, and the judge’s stand. All wait…all worry…all pray. Mick keeps Rosetta’s hand in his, his mind drifting from her there with him, to the little boy down the hall who played, clueless about what was really happening here.

Cindy leans her head on Wes’ shoulder, her courage keeping back the tears. She can just see Jason to the side of the screen.

Luke glances to his side at Angel, giving her an encouraging nod. He had faith...he had to.

Sparky and Mel sit next to each other, quietly waiting with the others. Before the proceedings begin, Sparky’s hand creeps over to hers and takes it to give it a gentle squeeze.


“All rise!”

A thunderous sound erupts as everyone stands. Judge Mills makes his way to his stand, his black robe proving his authoritative position. As he sits down, the room lowers once again. The bailiff announces the case, and everyone waits for the judge to speak.

Looking out across the room, his gray hair shows years of experience, his eyes not telling whether this was a case that he was intrigued by or annoyed by.

“I have reviewed this case thoroughly.” Judge Mill’s voice is deep, demanding attention. “You all know why you’re here. I see no reason to repeat details we all know and waste courtroom time. As such, I would like to proceed with this case as quickly an efficiently as we can.” His eyes scan the faces of those on trial. “I will hear from your representative and I will make a judgment based on your plea and based upon the information I have already reviewed. Anyone to create a disturbance before or after my judgment will be thrown out of this courtroom.”

He pauses for effect. “Miss Lockheart. Please step forward and present your case.”

Speech

*As Lockheart exits the office with Reese and scans all the faces a certin more confitint air forms around her. She was strong and needed to be stronger for every single person in this room. Clearing her throt Lockheart waves her hand in the air.*

"Excuse me people. Please if you could pay attachen to me for a moment. I have a few thinks I would like to talk to you about that is important."

*Lockheart waits as the room draws silent and everyone turns her way. Looking out into all the eyes Lockheart finds the strength. Glanding at Reese fast and than looking back out at everyone she finally speaks again.*

"Today is an important day, only that will be the foundation of TJY's freedome. There is no I can't, or wonts...there is only do, and will. Your faith has gotten you this far, it will see you through till the end and today we WILL walk out of that courtroom free to speak this companys name. The Agency will learn to fear TJY, and cring more than they do now when they hear the name. Today we go into battle and come out the winners."

*Lockheart scans the faces again, one to another. They eyes of many telling there storys. They hope displayed, the fear. It was there but it gave them life, and there faith was also pressent.*

"There are a few things I do ask though. Once we go into that court room, all must me silent. No matter what is said, you must not speak unless put up on that stand to testafy. I am sure non of you will be put up there but it is always a possablity. If any of you are just tell the truth, dont sugar coat it and it will be ok."

*Lockheart offers a smile to the crowd of people once more.*

"Well unless Reese has anything he would like to say. We are as ready as we ever are going to be."

*Lockheart looks to Reese to see if he had anything to add.*

*Aerith is releaved to see Wyatt pull up finally before Frankie can even think about coming into the restront or talking to her. Waving to Herb and Mable again they give her there wishes for Jamie and Aerith leaves again opening the door and jumping into the jeep. Leaning over Aerith gives him a quick kiss in the cheek.*

"Good timing."

*As Wyatt and Aerith pulls away Aerith dosent even bother to look where Frankie is but can feel his eyes watching the car as it pulls away.

As Aerith's smile returns to her face Aerith turns to talk to Wyatt.*

"So do we know if I will be able to come in or if I will have to wait outside? Anything I should know so its not a saprise?"

Time

Katie’s words…her touch…the emotions emitted through her voice and eyes… They made Scott’s pulse quicken just a little bit. Warmth comes to his cheeks as she asks him not to change. No one had ever said that to him before.

He wants to speak…wants to return her words, that she herself deserved so much, but they seem to get stuck in his throat at he gazes into her never-ending eyes. Her touch to his face makes him close his eyes for an instant, just remembering how her light stroke feels on his skin.

As Katie draws nearer, his hands automatically find their way to her sides, then back. Feeling her breath on his cheek, sensing her drawing closer and closer, a chill runs down his spine.

Her whispered words feel like a wind so strong to uproot a tree, but so gentle to caress a kite. Scott’s heart beats harder within his chest as Katie moves to kiss his lips. Tightening his hold around her, he returns the kiss with a passion discovered only for her.

Not wanting the moment to end, but knowing it must, Scott slowly, gently retreats. Searching Katie’s eyes, his own dance, despite the day they were facing. “Love…” he whispers, “so…that’s what this feeling is.”

His hand comes up to gently cradle the side of her face. “You’re an amazing woman, Katie…I love everything about you…and I’ll try not change too much, but only if you do too.”

Letting his eyes go from one of hers to the other, he moves in to plant another, quicker kiss on her lips. “Don’t let that horizon get away from you,” he whispers. “Without impossibilities, dreams can’t exist.”


Wyatt drives his jeep down the street, throwing it into a lower gear as he nears Mom and Pop’s He was running just a little late and needed to get back with everybody else, or at least meet them at the courthouse.

Spying a figure walking down the sidewalk, bit if ire hits Wyatt. Frankie wasn’t going to get away with anything…not today.

Pulling up near the front of the restaurant, Wyatt waves, seeing Aerith waiting inside.


Misty’s words are just as bit deeper than Carson was expecting, so he doesn’t respond other than giving her hand a squeeze. She made him feel different than any other woman ever had…and he likes it.
Walking to TJY gets them there just as everyone else is starting to gather.
Reese comes out of his office with Lockheart, heading to the group forming by the door.
Laura finds her way back to TJY and to Nate, forgetting about any of her own work today. Con joins the group, having managed to get a second day off his job. Jason joins the group on the main floor after putting Trooper back in his office. Other staff filters up from the lower level, from their own cubicles and from their homes. It was time.