Talk?

Hearing Misty's voice, Alec feels a strange sensation of being able to relax. Though he still wanted to be left alone, he didn't have the energy to fight, and felt bad enough that he knew he needed help.

Hal nods and offers a hand, taking most of Alec's weight to get him to his feet. Alec hangs between them, his knees buckling. Normally he would have argued. Today his temperament was docile.

It's slow going back upstairs, down the hall and into the infirmary. But Alec put up no struggle. Sinking down on the bed, he curls up on his side. He couldn't remember the last time he'd felt sick like this.

Groaning, he opens his eyes just enough to look at his hand that felt as if it were on fire. The redness had spread from his palm to his wrist and was starting down his arm. Looking up, he sees Misty, though her face is a little blurry. "Why don't you just put me out of my misery?" he manages to grumble under his breath.

"She's not likely to."

Hal spins around at the sound of Carson's voice. He'd arrived without yet being noticed.

Carson hooks his hands in his jeans pockets, ambling in a couple steps. He looks at Alec, not knowing all that was happening, then up to Misty, then back down to his brother. "She wouldn't let the worst of the worst die, so I wouldn't get my hopes up if I were you."

Alec grits his teeth. "Shove off." Turning the other way, he avoided looking Carson.

Carson glances to Misty again, this time with question. Not so much worry as curiosity at this point. "What happened?"


Laura holds half a smile as she eats her breakfast, quiet for several moments. The meaning of Nate's words hadn't escaped her. "I do like it," she finally responds quietly. Was she just talking about the food? Or more?

Glancing up, she waits to catch Nate's eye. "You're too good to me, you know that, don't you." A quiet laugh escapes. "I don't know what I ever did to deserve your affection."

Her hand slowly slides across the table, her fingers finding the warmth of his palm. "Nate, I-"

A sudden ringing of Laura's cell phone shatters the moment, bringing her words to a halt. Quickly withdrawing, she reaches into her pocket to pull out her phone. "Yes? Reese? ....Yeah, okay. ....No, it's ok, I'm with him now, I'll tell him. We'll be right in. ...Okay, bye."

Shutting her phone, Laura gets up from the table, but steals another bite of food on her way, washing it down with the rest of her coffee. "Jase has a lead. Reese wants us in the office on call. There's a new guy with Jase too. Come on."

Setting her plate on the counter, she turns, heading for the living room where her shoes and purse were.


Jason keeps his eyes on the road and grits his teeth and Phinox talks. This wasn't a meeting - he felt no need for conversation.

"As far as I'm concerned, you're on a need-to-know basis, and right now, you don't need to know."

Tapping his thumb nervously on the steering wheel, Jason gives a frustrated sigh. If Reese found out that he kept Phinox on the outside, he'd have his hide. "We traced the license number of a van we think might have been the vehicle used in Katie's abduction. We're going to the address now to...." He pauses, choosing a better word. "...talk to the owner."

Another day

Moving quickly over to Alec Misty rolls him on his back. Looking into his eyes and taking his temp Misty moves down to the bandage on his hand. Seeing the crimison color coming through she pulls the bandage back just a little checking out he cut.

"Ya did a fine job in getting that infected huh? Dont worry, I'll take good care of you and get ya better soon. Poor thing."

Checking in her bag for a moment Misty new she didnt have what she needed down here and she would need to bring Alec up to the infermary again.

Turning to Hal Misty gives a small nod.

"I need to get him upstairs to take better care of his hand. He has an infection, can you help me?"

Getting on one side of Alec Misty hoped Hal would get on the other to help get Alec back up there.

Quirking an eyebrow for a moment Nate just looks at Laura till finally a grin forms on his lips.

"If by women you mean Maggie than I do it about twice a week. Gives me a little extra time with her and makes her feel special. I like giving a little more to her when I can."

Nate brings the plates to the table and than goes back to get his own cup of coffee.

"I like making people feel special, and seeing them smile. Specialy when I know thats what they deserve because there life isnt easy."

There was a small twinkle in Nate's eyes maybe there was a hiddin meaning in his words he didnt want to come right out and say, but he did mean it.

Saying a prayer before they eat Nate smiles at Laura.

"Dig in I hope you like it."

Hanging up the phone a dark haired man looks to his younger partner and gives him a nod before the engine on the van rawrs. Pulling own his phone the man dials a number by heart and waits to get the voicemail on the other end like he new he would.

"Phinox, the transmiter you planted worked. I am sure you know by now he though he was talking to Brown himself. Your a genus. Stick to the plane you know what to do."

Hanging up the white van drive off leaving only a little bit of oil in its path.

Studing his saroundings Phinox stays quiet. Time and a place to talk, a time and place for everything. For now he choose silence as he soaked in the information all around him. Everything had to be played just right in order for anything to work planed. It was a dangergous game he was playing but he had no choise he had to.

Turning to Reese when he tells him to go with Phinox he gives a small bow out of respect.

"I'll protect him all I can. Thank you for giving me a chanse."

Holding his head high once again Phinox walks quickly behind Jason. He new very little about him, other than what he had been told and read. Hotshot as his file read had just that a hot temper and was not one to be messed with. For now Phinox didnt want to cross him till he new more.

Following Jason to his truck Phinox gets into the passanger side. Quit for a moment he finally turns to Jason.

"Where are we heading and what do we have to go by? I need to know all I can if I am going to help and I would guess your the best person to talk to."

Direct orders

Hal hadn't been in the room more than two seconds after making some rounds, and he turns to see Misty. "Yeah, sure." He nods to the monitor. "Looks like he hasn't been causing any ruckuses. He hasn't moved since I was in here last."

Just to be safe though, he unsnaps his holster. Alec was not one to underestimate.

Arriving at the holding cell, Hal punches in the code to open the door, and steps inside in front of Misty as a security caution. Seeing Alec motionless on the cot, he wants to make sure that it isn't some ruse to catch them off guard.

Hal moves in slowly, approaching the cot. Something didn't seem right though. Reaching down, he lays a hand on Alec's shoulder. "Alec?" No response.

Seeing the beads of sweat on Alec's face, Hal automatically puts a hand to the young man's forehead. He looks up to Misty grimly. "He's not playing possum. He's burning up." How an infection could have spread so quickly, Hal didn't know, but even not being a doctor, he knew that's what had to have happened. Blood had soaked through Alec's bandage again.

Alec gives a little groan, trying to lift a hand to get Hal to shove off, but he can't even open his eyes all the way, let alone tell someone off.


Laura giggles and accepts her own cup of coffee. "Thank you." She proceeds to put both milk and sugar in hers, helping mellow out the taste. "Mmm... now that's more like it."

Sitting down at the table, a quick prayer for the meal and for Katie is followed up by eating what Nate had prepared. It is quiet for a few minutes, concentration more on the food and the tasks they needed to get back to at work, than conversation.

Halfway finished, Laura glances up to watch Nate. It wasn't that long ago that she would have felt awkward in this position... and it seemed strange with what she'd been through that she would feel so differently now... but she did. God had brought good from the horrors, and she couldn't deny that fact, no matter how angry she was for the past and her assault.

"So do you treat your women to breakfast every morning?" she teases.


Reese takes a deep breath and lets it out slowly, studying Phinox's badge. There was a lot at stake here... he wanted to trust anyone who was on their side, but he had to know for sure this guy was legit.

"Alright." He gives a short nod and moves back around to his phone. "Just let me call and confirm this with Brown - the joys of red tape." He manages a smile of forced reassurance.

Picking up the phone, he dials and waits. "Yeah, it's Reese over at the Elite. Uh-huh. Listen, I got a guy here, Simon Phinox... said you sent him over to help on the Pent case.... Mm-hmm..." Reese glances up to Phinox then back down again. "Yeah, we can use all the help we can get. Thanks. Bye."

Reese hangs up, almost disappointed that he'd been wrong. But Brown's voice had confirmed it - the guy was legit. Reese's own leery feelings confused him now, but he'd have to ignore them. Maybe he was just overly on edge with this whole thing. "Alright, Phinox. Welcome to the Elite. Let me take you down the hall so you can get up to speed."

He leads the newcomer back out through the main floor and too the hall. Coming up on Jason's office though, they're suddenly met with the big black dog, commissioned to protect those he knew and beware of those he didn't.

A low growl rumbles in Trooper's throat as he stands smack-dab in the middle of the hall. His ears lay back as he stares menacingly at Phinox.

"Trooper," Reese commands. "Back off."

The dog doesn't move.

"Trooper, get back in Jason's office." Reese raises his voice and points. "Now."

Trooper still does not obey. His lips curl up to show his teeth and he advances a step. The hair on his back stands on end.

Reese grits his teeth. He knew the dog wouldn't purposely hurt him, but Trooper wouldn't have any problem going through him to get to someone he thought was a threat eather. "Dang it," he mutters under his breath. "Jason!" he shouts. "Where-"

As if on cue, Jason and Scott come around the corner after coming up the stairs. Jason lifts his eyebrows as he takes in the scene. He would have just let Trooper continue, had Reese not been there to signal it was safe. A short whistle through his teeth is all it takes.

Trooper immediately drops his stance and turns around to trot up to Jason's side, remaining at his heel to walk with him.

Reese sighs, setting his hands on his hips. "How many times do I have to tell you to shut that dog in your office when you're not with him?!"

Jason's eyes narrow slightly. "He's only a threat when necessary."

"Well it wasn't necessary - this time and countless times before." Reese isn't in the mood to have to deal with this. Not only did Trooper's quickness to attack put him on edge, but it was just a bit embarrassing in front of the newcomer. "Lock him in your office now."

"He's going with me," Jason states flatly.

"Where?"

Jason holds up the papers Scott had given him. "Next town over. Found an owner on that van."

Reese quirks an eyebrow. "Where's Nate?"

"Don't know. Don't care. I'm going."

"Not without a partner," Reese demands quickly. Looking to Phinox, he sizes him up, then looks back to Jason. "This is Phinox. He's from the a branch of Secret Service over in Spain." Brown had given him an explanation of why he was here. "He was tracking some bigwig drug dealers and wound up in the States. Now Brown is utilizing him over here where he can. He sent him here to help with our case."

Jason stands a little straighter, folding his arms. "I'll take Carson with me."

"I'm keeping Carson here so he can work with Nate when he shows up."

"Then I go alone."

"You will take Phinox with you!" Reese gives Jason a warning look. "And you will report back here before taking any action. Do I make myself clear?"

Jason throws him a glare and reaches in his pocket for his keys. He glances to Phinox. "Don't hold me up," he states flatly. Shouldering past, he heads for the exit with Trooper close behind.

Reese sighs, his eyes going back to Phinox. "Katie's his girlfriend. Give him a break. But go watch his back, he might need the backup."

Scott stands nearby in the doorway of his office, just watching. An odd churning spreads through his stomach. He continues to look at Phinox, the gut feeling worsening. Seeing Reese look up in his direction, Scott ducks back into his office.

Ryder stands up from Laura's desk, seeing Jason stalking by. "Hotshot, where you headed?"

Jason holds up the paper, still walking. "Out. Got a lead."

"Great. I'm coming with."

"Reese already assigned me a partner," Jason growls. "You'll have to catch the next boat."

Ryder stops, his shoulders dropping. "But..." He sighs in frustration, going back to flop down in the chair again.

Jason hits the outdoors, his stride not slowing as he heads for his truck.

Trust

Returning Carson's kiss Misty basks in the short moment enjoying every moment till he pulls away. Looking up at him her eyes twinkle. She was happy he had stopped by this morning, it made her feel a little better already. Watching Carson leave Misty lets out another small sigh as she leans back in her chair and rubs her eyes.

She was sleepy still and needed to wake up. There was a long day in front of her and she needed to be alert. Letting out a sigh again Misty finally stands. Its had been a while since she checked on Alec and she new now she probley should.

Gathering a few things she would need to check on Alec Misty puts them in her bag and exiting the room. Making her way to the sacurity room Misty looks in and see Hal. Giving a small smile she asks.

"Hal, I needed to go check on Alec would you mind coming with me?"

Smiling as Laura wraps her arms around him Nate brings his hands to her. Running his fingers over her own just soaking in the moment for a second.

"Mmmm....your awake. I was hoping you would before I was done. I came to wake you earlyer but you looked so peaceful I just couldnt do it."

Turning back to the stove to continue with the eggs and bacon a grin forms on Nate's face as Laura takes a sip of his coffee. Trying to hold back a laugh it slips out and Nate shakes his head. Plating up the food he looks to Laura for a moment.

"That teaches you for drinking a man coffee."

Looking back at the plate Nate finishs and brings them to the table before grabbing another cup from the cobord and putting coffee in it.

"If you want there is some milk in the fridge and some sugar here, just for you."

As Scott enters Phinox stands taller still just looking at him for a moment. A few of his own emotions, and feelings go through his mind. He's seen what the Agency had done to him, and new what he looked like afterwarded and now, He wasnt 100% but he looked alot better. It made Phinox smile to know Scott was ok. Just staying quiet for a moment he watches the interaction. Studying Reese and his manerisumes Phinox knows he is very leary of him.

Once Scott is gone again Phinox walks a little before tucking his hands inside his pocket as his jacket kind of wraps itself around his arms. He new Reese would have his doubts, and he new he had to tred lightly. He couldnt blow his cover not now, he had to gain there trust. Finally speaking again his thick spainish accent pokes its own head out.

"I must admite I reallt dont know that much. I guess you could say I was kind of thrown at Brown to use me for something. And this is where I landed. I have been informed that Katie I think her names was, was taken yesterday and the only thing that might be a lead is that her house was shot up. Other than that I dont know much. I will need to know everything else though if you..."

Looking up at Reese again Phinox can see it in his eye the mistrust was there, and Reese might not tell him anything at all. Taking his hands pit of his pockets he pulls a badge from his jacket pocked stating his was from the Spainish Secret Service.

"If you dont believe me, please by all means call brown. I need you to trust me if I am going to help you."

Unspoken thoughts

"Alright." Carson thinks for a moment, quieter than usual. He wasn't really sure where he fit in on this one. Jason had wanted him, but Nate was in charge, and he'd already had a run-in with Reese. Maybe he really shouldn't be helping with this case at all. But he couldn't not... Katie was too important.

"Thanks, Misty." Rising from his chair, he leans down to give Misty's lips a tender kiss, letting it linger as his hand slides to the back of her head, combing through her hair. Drawing away, he gives her a wink. "I'll see you in a bit."

Ambling back out into the hall, Carson wanders towards the main floor again, stopping near an empty cubicle. Going for his cell phone, he scrolls through the list of numbers. Mabel still took care of the bookkeeping for Mom and Pop's, and payday was just around the corner. He needed to call her before everything was processed.

Not surprisingly, he gets their home answering machine. "Yeah, Mabel, it's Carson. Listen, um... do me a favor? When you're prepping paychecks, give Aerith a bonus, will you? Take it out of my check - whatever you think will help her out since I've cut her hours lately. Once things get settled down we should be back on regular hours here, but until then, I want to make sure she's taken care of. I got enough to go on at the moment myself. So... thanks. Leave the paperwork for me afterward and I'll get to it. Oh, and tell Herb I'll see him soon."


Alec rolls over again, trying to force his eyes open. The room was strangely foggy and it seemed to spin every time he tried to sit up. So thirsty, he rolls off the cot in an attempt to get to the sink, but his knees buckle, sending him to the floor. Shaking his head, he tries to get his bearings, but sinks down onto the concrete, holding his swollen hand. A cold chill makes him shake and he tries again to stand, using the chair to pull himself up.

Somehow he manages to get a small drink, but moments later, he's back on the cot once more. Incoherent mumblings escape his lips, a byproduct of his feverish state.


As the smells of breakfast waft through the house, Laura is finally roused enough to open her eyes. She kind of remembered some earlier sounds, and thought she might have heard Nate hushing Maggie as she got ready to leave just a while ago.

Though Laura was still dead tired, the enticing aromas make her mouth water and her stomach growl. She knew she needed to get back to work too. Her phone had never rang, so she knew there had been no more new developments on the hunt for Katie, but she still needed to be there.

Finally getting her body to move, Laura kicks off the blanket and sits up, stretching and yawning. She first goes down the hall to the bathroom to splash some cold water on her face, but even after she's tried to clean up, it still is evident that she had been sleeping, not to mention her clothes were quite wrinkled after having slept in them too. Oh well. As she heads towards the kitchen a thought crosses her mind that brings a wry grin to her face, but she shakes her head, thinking better of actually saying it.

Stopping in the doorway, Laura watches Nate for several moments. He was so strong and bold at work - sometimes rough. But at home, his gentleness came through, melding with the peaceful atmosphere he'd created.

Coming up from behind, Laura reaches under his arms to wrap hers around his waist, laying her head on the back of his shoulder. "I hope that tastes as good as it smells," she murmurs.

After giving him a little hug, she moves away, stealing a sip from his coffee mug. Scrunching up her nose, she coughs. "That'll wake me up." Her eyes widen and she blinks. "I forgot you don't use cream or sugar."


Susanne opens her mouth as the stranger walks by, but he doesn't even stop. A bit perturbed, she stands up, stalking up behind him.

Reese looks up at the knock on the door and after allowing the visitor to enter, he is surprised to see a stranger. He had expected one of his own staff. He opens his mouth to respond, but Susanne interrupts.

"I'm sorry, Reese," she apologizes for letting someone in without checking with him first.

Reese waves it off. "It's fine."

Susanne glances up at the man skeptically, almost glaring at him but not quite. Not saying any more though, she turns and goes back to her desk.

Reese rises from his chair to come around, offering his hand to Simon. "Nice to meet you. You say Brown sent you?" His eyes narrow a little as his mind works. "He... usually calls to tell me when someone is coming over."

Pausing, he cocks his head. "I didn't know he had personal dealings with the secret service." Another quite obvious point comes to mind as well, but for now, Reese holds his tongue. The red flags had been duly noted.

"Reese?" Scott enters the office without realizing that someone else was there. Stopping short as he almost runs into Simon, he looks up quickly, backing up a step. His glasses were propped up on his head, and his good eye stares at Simon for a moment. For a strange instant, it feels like a thousand and one images of faces flash through his mind, but then it stops. He swallows hard. "Sorry."

"It's fine," Reese assures. "What do you need?"

"I was looking for Jason." Scott holds up some papers. "I found that -"

"Good." Reese cuts him off before he even has a chance to explain any findings in front of the visitor. "Try the wreck room. He might be blowing off some steam."

Scott falters, not used to being cut off, not to mention, he was confused that Reese himself didn't want to hear the details. He glances to Simon again, the back to Reese, suddenly getting the point. "Okay. Thanks." He nods as he backs away, then turns to leave.

Reese waits until he's gone before looking back to the newcomer. He offers a smile. "Sorry. Yes, we are on a case looking for a missing young woman - one of our agents. How much do you know?"


Scott heads back across the main floor rubbing his blind eye, then his forehead as a headache formed. The images tried to flare up again, like someone flipping through filing cards, only faster and with more details. What was he seeing, and why? Whatever it was, it didn't evoke feelings that were good. Rather without even knowing what his mind was trying to do, he automatically wanted to stop it.

Shaking his head, he continues his route. Jason. That was his focus right now.

New Face

Looking up at Carson Misty gives a small smile. It had been a long night and the little sleep she did get felt like nothing at all. Everything layed heavy on hee mind and made it a rough night.

"I forgive you. I'm sorry as well, I could of just let you take him and would of check on him later and night faught you."

Glaning down again Misty gives a shake of her head. Not even saying anything the look in her eye could say it all. There really hadnt been anything on Katie other than trying to get that licens plate number.

"Well, there was a shoot out at Katie's place last night. Neather Ryder or Henry were hurt to much. They got a licens plate number they are working on because it seems like the same as the one that took Katie. Other than that we still dont have anything else."

Standing in he kitchen the pans in front of Nate sizzle as a soft hum came from his lips. Maggie was up and gone to school already after Nate had made something for her and now the kitchen came to life once again as he made something for Laura too.

It kind of felt nice making breakfest for Laura. Sure he did it for Maggie all the time but this was just differnt.

A tall thin muscler man enyers TJY and makes his way across the floor. Noticing only a few of the faces from pictures the destination is not wavered. Dressed in a suit the mans jet black hair is slicked back into a tight poney tail giving him a business like air with a charming edge.

Making his way to Reese office the man gives a smile and nods to Susanne. Not stoping to tell his business to her he comes to Reese's door. Knocking strongly on the door the man enters hearing Reese voice. Stepping in the man gives a grin to Reese his hunny brown color eyes holding much mystory to them.

"Mike Reese? I'm Phinox, Simon Phinox. Sargent Brown sent me saying you guys might need a little help on a case with a missing girl. I am from the secret service."

Stopping for a moment Phinox draws quiet just letting the reason for him being here sink in. He had been told Reese might put up a little resistince in letting him help but he hoped it would not come to that.

Caught

Ryder reaches down to give Henry an additional pat of reassurance. Looking up quickly, he gives Misty a wry grin. "I'm fine. Thanks for asking though. That's the first time tonight someone hasn't forgotten about me."

Pulling Henry closer, he lifts the cat up again, careful not to jostle him too much. Henry replies by purring as if glad to be back somewhere safe.

"I'm gonna find somewhere to set this critter down, then get to work," Ryder comments. "If someone asks, I'm at Laura's desk."


The next few hours drag on. No matter how deep the team searches, hope just seems to still be out of reach. Nerves are shot. Everyone is tired.


"Jason..."

Jason feels a nudge to his boots. He'd leaned back in his chair just minutes before, putting his feet up on his desk. Opening one eye a little groggily, he sees Susanne with a cup of coffee.

"Mmm..." He puts his feet down and yawns. "You're a life saver."

Susanne manages a smile. "I like to think I contribute somehow."

Accepting the coffee, Jason's eyes drift to his watch and his eyes widen. "Seven? That's impossible."

Susanne gives a little chuckle. "You're not the only one that dozed off."

"Yeah, well I shouldn't have. I should have been working."

"You can't work if you're dead," Susanne warns. "Give yourself a break."

Jason takes a swig of coffee, rising from his chair. "Right. Is Scott still here?"

"Far as I know."

"Good." Gulping down half the cup of warm liquid, Jason sets the cup down, then heads out of his office to Scott and Dalton's. The door is halfway open, and he doesn't bother knocking. "Scott?" he asks loudly.

Scott's head shoots up from where it had been resting on the desk. His good eye was bloodshot, his drooping shoulders proving his weariness. "Yeah?"

"Got anything?"

"Um..." Scott squints at his screen. "Waiting on some results."

"It's been hours," Jason complains. "All you have to do is find the owner of a van. It's not that hard."

Scott sinks further down in his chair. "Sorry. I fell asleep about half an hour ago."

"If you're planning on sleeping, let me take over," Jason almost snaps.

"I'm fine." Scott tries to concentrate, pushing aside his hurt feelings for Jason treating him like this. He knew his friend was just stressed. But it still hurt. "I'll get you results within the hour."

"Good."


Alec groans as he writhes on the cot. He felt hot. He felt cold. He didn't know why he was sweating, but his hand hurt like mad. He had no idea what time it was... no idea how much time had passed. He didn't remember seeing anyone since he'd been brought back down here by Reese. But right now... for the first time... he wished someone would come.


Carson makes his way slowly across the main floor of TJY, trying to go relatively unnoticed. Heading down the hall, he sees Jason in Scott's doorway, and slips past without being seen. Making it to the infirmary, he enters almost cautiously. The dark circles under his eyes proved he hadn't slept well, even though he'd been home. But he was here.

Making his way over to Misty's desk, he grabs an empty chair and scoots it up closer to her, turning it around so he can straddle it and look at Misty, resting his arms on the back. This morning his greeting lacked the enthusiasm he usually had for seeing her. But his farewell, or lack thereof, had been gnawing at him all night.

"Sorry about yesterday," he apologizes quietly. "Anybody found anything yet?"


Laura stirs on the couch. Her mind told her that she needed to get up... she needed to go back to work... there was just a little bit of light coming in through the window now. But her body felt so heavy... still so tired. Caught between the worlds of awake and sleep, she just can't pull herself up.

Peaceful

Looking up and giving a smile to Ryder Misty gently takes Henry in her arms. Gently bring him over to the table Misty lays him on his side and holds his paw fermly but softly. Examing it closely she can see a few shards of glass. Giving a nod to Ryder to hold Henry for a moment Misty goes to get some cleaner, tweezers and some bandages before returning.

"Hey there ya little fuzz ball what did you get yourself into huh?"

Talking softly to Henry Misty kept him calm as she worked trying to make this as painless as she could for him. In no time at all Misty has the glass out and a makeshift bandage around his paw.

"Sorry its so balky buddy but I am not use to have suck small pashents."

Giving him a gentil scratch behind the ears Misty looks up to Ryder and gives a small smile. Now she had taken care of one she would check the other and make sure he was ok too.

"And how about you? Are YOU ok?"

Getting out of his car Nate lets out a sigh of releaf as he was finally home. Though his mind still was heavy and his heart acked for Katie he new sleep was a must and he was only coming up empty handed. Jason new his number and so did Reese if they needed him.

Entering the house Nate can see the soft glow of the living room light on. Walking over to the coutch slowly Nate looks down on Laura who was fast asleep and gives a small smile. It made him feel good on the inside that she was here. Things were moving forward slowly again and that made Nate happy.

Reaching down Nate takes the blanket and slowly lifts it over Laura before leaning down and giving her a gentil kiss on the cheek. She looked so peaceful, and that made Nate happy.

Angles

Carson is glad he gets Aerith's voicemail. He hadn't wanted to wake her up this time of the night...morning. "Aerith, it's Carson... change of plans. Keeping the restaurant closed tomorrow. Lots happening. Not at liberty to give details at the moment, but I'm sure Wyatt will be filling you in. Anyway, enjoy the day off. I'll let you know when we'll open up again. I hope it won't be more than a day or two."

Hanging up, Carson leans back on the counter and takes a swig of the beer that he'd opened half an hour ago. It had already grown somewhat flat, and it didn't taste very good.

"Carson?"

He quirks an eyebrow and turns to see Dani squinting in the light. She was in her pajamas, having woken from the noise in the kitchen. "You still up?"

"Just got in," he admits. "Been at TJY."

"Oh, I see. I heard about Katie."

"Yeah, that's why I was there."

"You going to help them?"

Carson forces a weak chuckle. "Yeah, sure, if Reese can stand me and they keep the right people out of my way."

Dani is confused. "What? Why? What are you talking about?"

Carson hadn't wanted to broach the subject yet. He still wanted to ask Dani why she'd visited Alec, but right now he wasn't in the right mood. "Nothing. Just in a sour mood I guess."

"Mm... I'm sorry." Dani reaches out to give his arm a squeeze.

Carson just shrugs and holds out his bottle. "Join me?"

Dani scrunches her nose. "You know I don't like beer."

Carson glances into the bottle, thinks, then turns to pour the rest of it in the sink. "Neither do I tonight."

Sighing, Dani looks at her brother with a bit of worry mixed in with her compassion. "Carson?"

"Yeah?"

"I... found something in one of your jackets... and..." She takes a deep breath through her nose. "Kinda confirms it..."

Carson knows exactly where she's going. She must have found the pack of cigarettes that he hadn't remembered where he'd put. Giving a groan, he pushes off the counter and heads to the hallway. "Not now, Dani. I'm going to bed."

"But..." Dani's words trail off as he brother disappears. She sighs. That hadn't gone very well. She wasn't mad at Carson, only confused, and wishing she could do something for him.


Reese looks up at Nate and shakes his head slowly. "No... nothing new. There's just nothing to go on right now. No one's heard a thing... I just wish they'd call back and give us some direction... for now though, the only thing we can do is hope to trace the vehicle. That's the only thing we have to go on."


Scott stares at the computer screen, his fingers flying on the keys, his eyes trying to catch all of the information they can. His eyes weary, he'd finally given in to take his contacts out and put his glasses on instead, though he still hated letting people see his blind eye.

Moving ahead with the information Jason had given him, he'd located the vehicle, but had run into more hurdles trying to find the owner. It would take a while, and probably a few phone calls too.


Rick shoulders his bag and gives Misty a nod. "Going home for just a bit. I'll be back so you can get some rest too. Need anything, call me, okay?"


Ryder steps through the door onto the TJY floor, letting the door slam shut behind him. Not only had no one bothered to tell him about Katie, but then he'd been left at the scene without word as well. So much for being part of the team.

Stalking by the cubicles, he glances around but doesn't see Laura. She must have gone somewhere else like Nate had said. The bundle under his arm squirms and complains a little, but he doesn't let go. Henry was tucked safely in his arm, having had no where else to go.

Turning down the hall, Trooper is just coming out of Jason's office, and spies the cat. His ears perk forward and he gives a low bark.

Ryder isn't even fazed. "Steady on, mate," he returns. "You want this cat for breakfast, you'll have to go through me."

Trooper relaxes and turns to go back into Jason's office. Jason lifts an eyebrow. Trooper never responded to someone else like that... ever. He looks up to Ryder, eying the cat.

Ryder gives Jason a glance of annoyance. "Thanks for letting me know what's going on. I'll be hanging around here for a bit, so really... put me to use sometime."

"Look, Ryder, I..." Too late, he was gone. Jason sighs. He didn't have time to worry about anyone getting in a snit over anything.

Ryder continues his route, not knowing where he was going or what he was looking for, but reaching the infirmary, he stops, entering slowly and giving the door a light knock with his knuckle. "Misty?" A wry grin surfaces. "I got someone here who could use a bit of a look on his paw. I think he mighta stepped in some glass earlier."


Alec rolls over on his side, trying to wake up. From the meds Misty had given him though, everything was foggy and he couldn't quite pull himself all the way out of his sleep.

His hand was throbbing. It had been a while, and the bandages now felt tight. He knew that his hand had swollen - sure sign of infection. But as dazed as he was, he wasn't in any shape to call out to anyone.


Laura settles down on the couch, staring up at the dark ceiling. Janet had let her in. Maggie had been to bed hours before, so now the house was quiet. Laura had opted to stay over here instead of in Rick and Janet's spare room, so in case Nate came back or needed anything, she'd be easy to find.

Turning onto her side, she nuzzles her face into the throw pillow and closes her eyes. Breathing in, she felt safe... it smelled like Nate.


Gage shakes his head and pulls a bandanna out of his back pocket. "You know they won't bend. And I know they won't bend. But why... I didn't think you'd ask that. You know the game isn't always about logic."

Reaching out, he roughly wipes some dried blood off the side of Katie's mouth from the cut in her lip. "You know, you can fight all you want... you can be as stubborn as ever... but it won't do a bit of good. Hide what you're feeling, go ahead. But in the end, it's still going to hurt just as bad."

He retreats, tucking the bandanna back into his pocket. "You better pray they DO do what we want... otherwise you won't be the only one hurting. Your aunt would be pretty miserable without you, I'd bet."

Upper hand

Letting out a long sigh Misty sits back down at her desk after cleaning up. She wanted to call Carson and make sure he was ok but something held her back. Maybe all he needed was time to cool down and wanted to give him that. Giving a small sigh Misty couldn't help but feel a little bad for Carson. He had been under so much stress latly it really wasn't surprising she finally snapped. Shaking her head Misty trys to get back to work figure it would be the best. In an hour or two she would check on Alec.

Getting back inside to TJY Nate unzips his jacket and turns to Jason. It wasnt often he took a strong controlle on things but this was differnt and he had a fire burning.

"Jase take this plate number to Scott and see if he found anything else out on the pictures. I am gonna go do some tests on this oil and see what we got."

Taking there sepret ways Nate pass Reese office and pokes his head in for a moment just to give him a low down on everything they had found.

"Anything new here?"

Lifting her head just a little Katie can see the light shine through the door as it opens. After being in the darkness for hours just that little bit of light that cut through the dark gave Katie a bit of hope that the light still shined and she was still with it, thought the pain of Jason being gone was great because by now surely he couldent be alive without her.

Seeing the saring in her capters hand Katie knows what is coming next again. Why where they keeping her alive. What was it they really wanted.

"Why are you even bothering? They arnt going to give you what you want."

Katie wondered if maybe this medicen they were giving her was blacking even a little bit of her own emotions to herself. She wasnt unset and sad as much as she thought she might. Though she new in the background the feelings, the pain, it was there and it would only be matter of time before she felt it to its full force.

As Katie's head is lifted up her gaze pearces his as she looks back at him. His words held, hate and lies. Giving a scoff Katie had to keep the upper hand, she had to stay in controlle."

Too bad

Reese takes hold of Alec, ready to take him back to the holding cell.

"Aw come on!" Alec complains. "You can't keep me here forever!"

"Actually... we have permission to keep you here as long as we deem you to be valuable." Reese aims him for the door. "Come on."

"I've told you everything I know! Why can't that be enough?!"

"Because... people like you always have more." Reese's tone is calm as he continues to push Alec down the hall. It isn't hard. Alec was getting groggy already. By the time they reach the holding cell, Alec is ready to just lie on the cot, fighting sleep for only a few minutes before he's out cold.

Shaking his head, Reese goes back upstairs. He didn't know the details, but seeing Carson so upset... had Reese been right to ask Carson to come back to the force? Maybe he had been premature. Carson had changed, no doubt, but seeing his temper again... now Reese wasn't so sure that having him here was totally a good idea.


Carson stalks outside and into the parking lot. Leaning back against the brick building, all is quiet. It was very late... or rather "early" was more like it now. The outdoors were dark... and he was miserable. Alec had just pushed the right buttons... had said just the right things... he deserved what he got!

But Carson again sees the look in Misty's eyey. Sighing, he goes for his pack of cigarettes. His nerves would be calm for the drive home.


Jason agrees with Nate and collects all the information he cam to take back to TJY. Before he knows it, they're pulling back into the TJY parking lot.


The steel doors open slowly, letting in a dim stream of light. The Agency operative enters slowly, letting the door fall shut again. Pulling on a thin chain, a little light comes on to reveal the dingy cell. The damp air smelled musty. Dripping water could be heard in the corner.

Gage approaches the pole where Katie was held. His dark eyes study her as he walks. Putting the syringe between his teeth to hold, he reaches out to roll up her sleeve. He could see where the ropes had dug into her wrists, making them bleed. Gripping her arm tightly, he finds the spot he wants, and retrieves the syringe. It was obvious he'd done this before... a long time before Katie had arrived.

A lock of his dark hair hung down over his forehead. His hands were rough on Katie's skin, his grip unforgiving. The needle pierces her skin and the Eliminator is injected once more.

"Hurts now," he mutters under his breath. "But it'd hurt a whole lot more if you didn't have it. It's like a bad drug. Don't want it, but can't live without it."

Backing up a step, he puts a finger under Katie's chin to lift her face. "Too bad you're pretty." He lets his hand drop again. "But don't worry. If everyone cooperates, you'll get out of here before you're too messed up."

Games

Giving a little start as Carson loses his temper Misty just stands almost frozen in place. Misty hadnt seen Carson like this in a long time. He wasnt being forward, he wasnt being stern he was just being down right mean, and had blown his top. For a moment it put a fear into Misty that she didnt like.

Everything happens to fast and though Misty says Carson's name is goes unhurd, and she is powerless to stop anything. One thing leads to the next till finally Reese steps in and Misty lets out a small sigh happy her Uncle came when he did before someone became hurt.

As Carson is told to go home Misty steps forward to talk to him but stops as she receves the glair from Carson. She cant help the emotions that rise inside of her at the look. It made her feel horrable. Maybe she had done something wrong this time.

Trying to keep the feelings at bay Misty turns again looking down at the blood soaked bandage on Alecs hand. A new anger rose as she new he had done this knowing he would get under Carson's skin.

Getting a few more bandages, and another needle and thread Misty goes to work on Alec's hand once again this time not being as careful as she had been before.

"That wasnt a very nice think you did getting under Carson's skin like that. You'd better watch it or someone might really knock you out for it."

Once Alec's hand is stiched and wrapped again Misty lets out a small sigh. She was tired and worryed about Katie and still Alec seemed to rub her the wrong way with what had happend moment before. She new the pain killed and sleeping pills she had giving him would kick in soon and at least for now he would be knocked out.

Turning to her Uncle she gives a nod to him.

"He can go back to the holding cell now."

Looking back to Alec a look of disapointment but sterness for the rules flashed for in her eyes as the tiny flames flicker. Keeping her voice strong and in controlle she looks back to Reese.

"After the show he just put on and the games he played I am sure he will be fine. I'll keep an eye on him through the camras. He will be knocked out shortly anyways."

Feeling his phone ring Nate just lets it go to voicemail for the moment. He would check in a second when he was done with Jason.

"Yeah have Scott run that and take a sample of the oil. Sometimes you can learn alot from simple things. At this point anything that can lead us forward is a good thing."

Nate really ment that. Having some kind of hope would help them stay strong and hold there heads up. He'd take anything at this point. Though it had not even been a day yet that Katie had been gone it was still to long for his liking.

Stepping away for a moment Nate pulls out his phone and see the voice mail is from Laura. Listing to the mail Nate cant help but be a little shocked that Laura said she would be staying at his house but at the same time it made Nate smile, and his heart jump a little bit that Laura was trusting him enough to stay there. Even in the mits of the darkend night, a little light shone through to show not all of the world was dark.

Blissfully ignorant

Carson isn't happy, but finally nods in surrender. "Alright... he can stay up here. But one wrong move and he goes back down." He moves to sink into a nearby chair, to rest and now to keep watch on Alec.

Alec watches Carson and Misty interact for a moment, giving Carson a sly look. "So... she's the one in charge, eh?"

"Shut up," Carson growls.

Alec almost laughs. "Big, bad Carson... being told what to do by a woman. If I ever get out of here, that'll be the story to tell."

Carson bristles, straightening to glare at his brother. "Enough, Alec."

"Whatcha gonna do?" Alec taunts, keeping his voice low. "Doctor's orders for me to take it easy. You can't touch me."

Carson's anger flares up in his eyes. He had enough confusing emotions pertaining to Alec the way it was, without him being mocked on top of it. Getting to his feet, he ignores Misty's request, yanking Alec off the table and starting to drag him to the door. "You're going back down."

"No!" Alec fights against him. "Misty said I should stay!"

"Well, Misty's not in charge, now is she?!" Carson gives Alec a shove toward the hallway. "Walk or be dragged, it's up to you."

Alec spins around, standing tall to meet Carson eye-to-eye. "Just try."

"Fine." Carson manhandles Alec through the door with no mercy.

Alec trips over the door frame and stumbles, only to still be shoved forward. "Ouch!" he wails, holding his injured hand. "Take it easy!"

"Taking it easy on you means not killing you. Now move!"

"You can't do this!" Alec raises his voice. "It's prisoner brutality! Stop!"

His wails echo down the hall and suddenly a new voice interrupts. "Carson!" Reese barks. "What are you doing?"

Carson stops. Unbelievable. He keeps one hand tight on his captive. "I'm taking this guy back down the holding cell."

"What's he doing out in the first place?"

"Long story."

Alec squirms, purposely balling his hand into a tight fist, then snapping his fingers open to stretch his palm. The pain was excruciating as he could feel the stitches tear. "I'm hurt!" he complains to Reese. "I'm supposed to stay up here!" The bandage on his hand has quickly become crimson, noticeable to Reese.

"Carson, he's still bleeding!" Reese reprimands. "Get him back in there, for crying out loud. What are you thinking?"

Carson just stands for a moment, irritated but with no recourse. "Fine." He whips Alec around and gives him a swift shove back into the infirmary. Alec trips, landing hard against a table and just making his hand worse.

Giving a glare over his shoulder, Alec catches Carson's eye, a faint grin ever-so-slight. And only then does Carson realize that he'd just been played. But as he steps forward, he's stopped by Reese's hand to his chest.

Reese shakes his head in warning. "I'll bring Hal to watch him."

"So what am I supposed to do?" Carson throws up his hands.

"How about take a break?" Reese suggests calmly. "We have refreshments to the left and a spare room to the right. Your pick."

Carson is seething. He looks back in the infirmary, accidentally catching Misty's eye. He didn't mean to glare at her, but it slipped. Looking down quickly, he knows that staying here would just cause more trouble. He turns back to Reese. "Have Jason or Nate call me if they need me. I'm going home."

Spinning on his heel, he heads down the hall.

Seeing him leave, Alec relaxes, though it's not easy with as much pain as his hand was in again. But it had been worth it.


Ryder's eyes continue to be wide with confusion and a bit of irritation towards a few of the things Nate had said. But before he can even respond, Nate is gone again, following after Jason.

Sighing, he shakes his head and turns around to trudge to the corner of the living room where he kept some of his things. He needed to get something on his feet, find his badge and go to TJY with or without Nate and Jason. He didn't care whether Nate was okay with him helping or not - he was helping and that was that.


Jason is squatting near a small spot in the road, fingering the oily spot. "Yeah... oil." He looks up to Nate. It was obvious that he was connecting this vehicle to the one that had been in the park. It was also obvious that it was a long shot, but it was all they had. "We've got a license number. I bet whoever took Katie wanted to make a clean sweep and probably thought they'd take out both Ryder and Laura."

He stands up, wiping his hand on his jeans. "We should get back to TJY and have Scott trace this plate number. Ryder can make sure the cops get what they need from this scene."


Laura hits the speed dial for Nate's number as she drives down the road. Reese had told her to get some rest and come back in a couple hours. Getting Nate's voicemail, she leaves a short message. "It's me. I'm headed to your place. Con and Jamie are still working and I didn't want to be at their place alone. I'll check on Maggie while I'm there - Rick said Janet would help me bed down for a few hours. I'll see you in a while. If you need me sooner, give me a call."


Gage sits at the computer in the dimly-lit room. He turns his head only slightly as the other thug comes back from the chamber, then concentrates on his work again. His face told that he was too young to be here... but innocence had already been lost. Twenty-four years, under the influence of the Agency from birth - he hadn't had a chance.

"The family is still clueless," he informs. "Traced calls going in to the ranch and as far as I can tell, they don't know about the girl yet."

He motions to his monitor. "The fathers are blissfully ignorant as well. Would have been easy enough to just snatch 'em ourselves and I told Medridge that this morning. But he still wants to keep things spiced up with the girl. 'Watch 'em squirm' is what he said."

He shrugs, not really caring. "That's the latest if you want to report it."

Confustion

Shaking her head Misty looks to Carson and than back to Alec than Carson again. She really did need to keep him here to keep and eye on his for just a little.

"Carson, I really do need him here. Whether he is a prisner or not he is still human and its my job to keep him safe. You can stay here to, to make sure he dosnt try anything if you want."

Misty's eyes plead with Carson as she talks though the softness is still behind them.

"Just an hour thats all I need, just to make sure no infection or anything else forms. Its my job, I have to make sure."

Looking back to Ryder Nate's eyes show he was sorry. Someone really should have told him, but with all the hussle it was hard to remember.

"I'm sorry Ryder, I really am. If Katie new I forgot to tell you she would probley shoot me. Everything happend so fast and with Jason always keeling over from his emotions being cut off from Katie...its just got lost in the wind to tell anyone."

With that though Nate remember he was going to have to have someone call Katie's aunt and uncle to let them know what happend or for sure they would hear it from them as well.

" It happend about this afternoon. We arnt sure why and this here is the only lead we have right now. Someone called Jason's phone and from there nothing. Its probley not to safe here right now, and 10 to 1 says Laura is gonna stay at Con's. I have extra room at my place and your more than welcome to stay there for now."

Giving Ryder's arm a gentil pat Nate trys to smile.

"If you wanna talk to Reese about maybe helping us out you can tell him I have no problem with that I know Katie was your friend too. I'm sorry again Ryder."

Making his way out of the house down the steps heading to where he saw Jason by the road. Nate was tired, he was stressed and he new maybe a bit groupy but he couldnt give up not yet. Maybe just a few more hours, and lookin into this lead. Right now anything was a step closer to finding Katie and gave hope to finding her alive.

"Find anything Jase?"

Receiving a backhand to the face Katie cringes as a rough voice screams as her again.

"Tell us what we want to know and it would be better for you. This call all end if you just tell us."

Looking up at the bawd man who looked like he hadn't showered in weeks Katie shakes her head only to receive another slap. Tasting blood in her mouth now from where her lip split open Katie trys to hold her head up as she is bound to a pole.

"I don't know what your talking about."

Katie trys to think, using her powers was useless. They new somehow they new and found a way to block her from communicating with Jason and causing any emotional fear to the other people around her.

Everything seemed so fuzzy. She new some time had passed for the last time she had been awake but it was so hazzy its almost felt like thatever they had given her was trying to ajust itself to her body making laps in time.

The man steps up to her again and takes Katies face in his hands jerking it up to look into her eyes.

"As stupid as the rest of your family. You know we don't like it when people interfere with our planes Miss Pent and we know you and a team where in Austraila for just that. How much is your life worth to the Elite huh? You think enough they would give us what we want? If they dont, you'll rot down here and such a shame, a pretty think like yourself."

Squinting her eyes just a little Katie stairs back at her capture. Fear was not an option and not a weakness you wanted to show anyone who belonged to the Agency. So as closed off as she was to Jason Katie also left it out of her eyes. Hawking up a nice spit wad she hurls it in he mans direction a grin forming on her face.

"Than so be it. I'd rather die than have them give you anything."

Taking his hand to whip the spit off the anger shows on the mans face, and his hand connects with Katie's face again with such force and sliping her dry lip open once again.

"Your going to wish you didn't say that because every moment your going to feel it. I am going to make you stay a live to the very last moment....and they...they are going to watch you slowly fade away."

Giving a cackling laugh the man turns his back and starts to head up the steps slamming a heavy steel door behind him.

What did he mean they were going to watch? Katie felt so confused on his last statment but something told her she would find out sooner or later.

Would have been nice

Carson and Jason both jump at Nate's entrance. Jason is on his feet in an instant, holstering his sidearm and clipping his badge to his belt.

Carson stands too, but feels a bit lost. "Jase..." His words trail off as Jason and Trooper disappear. Jason had a one-track mind tonight. Not that anyone could blame him.

Sighing, Carson ambles out into the hall. Without any direct orders now, he wasn't sure what to do. He'd wrung the only obvious source dry... now what? His body warned him that he was nearing exhaustion. And he still needed to open up the restaurant in the morning. Perhaps he should leave things be here and go home for a while. Though he was just as intent on finding his young friend, he knew that sometimes rest was necessary.

Wandering towards the infirmary, he decides to at least stop in to see Misty and check on Alec. Maybe he'd sack out in there for a while instead of going home - at least he would be right on hand if needed, but he could still get some shuteye before morning.

Arriving at the open door, Carson is about to enter, but hearing Misty's voice, something makes him stop. He didn't usually eavesdrop, but there was a different tone to Misty's voice, and wondering why on earth she'd be talking so casually to Alec, he finds himself pausing unseen outside the door.

"...I ended up falling in love with him..."

Carson's eyes widen slightly, and he leans back against the hallway wall. He blinks, trying to decide if he'd heard Misty correctly or not. He knew he had. It was strange... even though he and Misty spent so much time together and even thought they'd always been affectionate towards each other, hearing her say those words... hearing her say that she loved him... It confirmed that she had indeed already said it a time or two in passing...

Why her words sent chills down Carson's spine, he wasn't sure. It was an unfamiliar feeling and one he wasn't sure if he liked or not. Of course Misty's attention made him feel good, but... love? Was it... was it returned?

Shaking his head, Carson forces himself not to think about it anymore right now. This wasn't even his conversation. Listening for a few more moments, he rolls his eyes. Alec didn't belong on the upper level for any longer than absolutely necessary. No one should be babying him.


Alec's eyes narrow as he realizes that he's not going to pull one over on Misty. Taking the pills grudgingly, he downs them quickly. "Kid," he mutters. "That does it... now I have been dissed as many ways as humanly possible."

He shakes his head. "I shoulda known I'd be following in Carson's wake. He was big stuff at the Agency, I'm not surprised he's big stuff around here too. He's got the ego for it."

"Ego isn't what'll knock your lights out if you don't shut up."

Alec spins his head quickly to see Carson enter the infirmary. He tries to hide the fact that his half-brother did indeed scare him to a certain degree. "Well, if it isn't the Aussie himself."

"It is." Carson glares at Alec, folding his arms across his chest. He glances to Misty, his eyes gentler only with her, though there would be no small talk or banter right now. "He needs to go back to the cell right now," he directs.

"You're not in charge of me," Alec defends, desperate not to go back downstairs yet. "Don't think you can fool me - Hal doesn't want you handling me."

"Hal doesn't have a choice," Carson states flatly. "You're stitched up, you got pain killers, it's time to go back downstairs where you belong."

"Aw come on!" Alec throws Misty a sidelong glance, then eyes Carson again. "I gave you what you wanted! Why can't you just leave me alone?"

"You don't deserve it?" Carson quirks one eyebrow and takes several steps forward. "You can walk, or I can drag you. Up to you."

Alec grits his teeth. His hand was throbbing, his head hurt, and he didn't want to go back down. "Just try," he threatens.


Laura looks up at Nate, her eyes widening. "The house? But..." Then her face pales. "Oh no... Ryder. Is he okay?" Worry courses through her eyes. "He doesn't even know what's going on - I can't believe I forgot to call him. Please find out if he's okay... and make sure he has somewhere to stay too..."

Concentrating on her tasks was harder than ever now. Not only was Katie missing, but their house had been shot up, just compounding the stress.

Once Nate is gone, Laura does her best to work, though she grows weary. A prayer remains in the forefront along with the hope that Katie was okay.


Jason is quick to catch up to Nate and slides in the car with him for a quick ride to the house. There were several police cruisers and already an officer was needing to keep back a few nosy neighbors.

Brown meets both Nate and Jason immediately. "Glad you guys made it so quickly. Thanks for coming." He walks them to the house. "Ryder hasn't been able to come up with any answers - maybe you guys can."

Talking with an officer, Ryder stops as he finally sees some familiar faces. "Am I glad to see you two. This place is a shambles, thanks to some ruffians."

"Do you know who they were?" Jason asks.

"Nope." Ryder shakes his head. "Agency scum I think though." He points to two body bags. "Couldn't identify them but it was their style of a hit and run."

Jason frowns. "You just had to kill them, didn't you?"

Ryder grows a little defensive. "I'd be glad to go back in time and put you in my place to see what you would have done." He holds out a piece of paper a bit grudgingly. "I did get a license plate number if you think that would help any."

Jason snatches it from him. "What kind of vehicle was it?"

"A van. Why?"

Jason looks to Nate. "This has to be connected. That could even be the same vehicle."

"The same vehicle as what?" Ryder throws up his arms. "What is going on?"

"Katie was taken," Jason snaps. "We're trying to find her. A live prisoner would have been nice."

"What?!" Ryder's eyes turn huge. "She was taken? When? Why didn't anybody tell me?!"

Jason doesn't even respond. He's too fast out the door and sprinting for the street to check for any oil spots.

Ryder looks to Nate. "Who do I have to thank for leaving me in the dark over this one?" He didn't really mean to take out his frustrations on Nate, but he was tired of feeling so out of the loop. He hadn't felt this way in Australia.

Check

A grin forms on Misty's face as she cocks her head to the side a little. It wasnt hard to tell at all that this was indeed a relation to Carson. For a moment Misty is taking back to a the time when she first met Carson. The look in his eyes, the way she felt when he had held her in his arms and the first kiss she had even gotten from Carson Banks. It was strange how much time had passed but thinking about it, it seemed like just yesterday.

Coming back to the here and know Misty continues to grin. She had to stay focused with what was going on and couldnt let Alec have the upper hand.

"Ah, having a criminal breathing down my neck dosnt bother me. I've delt with it before."

Giving a shake of her head Misty turns around to the counter puting a few pills into a small cup.

"You know a while ago your brother sat in the same spot and I fixed him up. I did everything to keep him out of that cell. I ended up falling in love with him. A comman criminal, the worst of the worst found it in himself to change and made me the happyest woman in the world. It was a long hard road, but I think I would do it again for the outcome I have now."

Misty gives a smile as the flams in her eyes flicker. Since Carson it had grown brighter and now talking it about it gave Misty's face a glow.

Turning back around to Alec she holds the tiny cup out to him with some water.

"Sorry kid, but your brother beat you to it. I've gotten a little smarter since than on what I can and cant do. I have to watch you for a little bit to make sure you dont rip those stickes out so you at least get to stay up here for an hour or so. Than I need to take you back. Take this it will help with the pain and help you sleep."

Hearing Brown's voice Nate feels instintly awake and is all ears. Standing before Brown is even done Nate has his jacket on. Someone hit Laura and Katie's house was it really only a concordance.

"All right I am on it I will be down."

Hanging up the phone and exiting his cubicle Nate makes his way to Jason's office quickly. Not even knowing Nate opens the door stepping inside.

"Jason, with me. Brown just called there was a shoot out at Katie and Laura's place. I am going to check it out and I want you to come with me."

As fast as he had entered Jason's office Nate was gone again heading for the door. Along the way Nate stops at Laura's desk. Leaning over he gives her a kiss on the top of the head.

"There was a shoot up at your house tonight, I want you to stay at Con and Jamie's or you can take up the spair bedroom at my place where it is safe. Jason and I are going to go check it out."

Two down

Con and Laura's conversation is halted, and the coffee is accepted gratefully. Con takes a sip and lets the warm liquid slide slowly down his throat. "Mm... thank you."

He reaches out and pulls Jamie close, leaving his arm around her shoulders. "No... nothing yet."

Laura shakes her head. "There just isn't anything to go on. Scott finished retrieving all the satellite pictures, but he's still trying to zero in on them and try to figure out the make and model of the cars that were there. It'll be nearly impossible to distinguish license plates though."

Con grits his teeth, trying not to let his worry show. Of all people, why did it have to be Katie?


Alec doesn't resist Misty's medical care, though by his body language, it's obvious that he's not happy - his scowl remains. The only time he flinches though, is when Misty comes with the needle. Looking away, he lets her finish, gritting his teeth against the pain.

Finally when he's all stitched up and wrapped, he looks up at Misty, the look that could kill, fading into one resembling something more sly. "You got a lot of pull around here, don't you? Access to the cell... telling off Hal there."

He quirks an eyebrow looking oh-so-much like Carson. "They're all so busy with this case of theirs, they probably wouldn't even notice if you let me stay up here for a while."

In all reality, Alec's hand was killing him with the screaming pain, but to be out of the holding cell was something he couldn't help but find as a relief. His eyes stare into Misty's, the question lingering. "Besides... if he's the only company you got..." He gestures to Rick. "...then maybe you wouldn't find my presence too repulsive. Or would you? Having a dastardly criminal breathing down your neck."


Hal flops down in his chair again, the irritation showing on his face. He hadn't answered Misty, though a part of him was a little sorry for treating Carson like he had. But how was he to have known what would happen? Sure, Carson seemed to be a good guy now, but when pushed, he was also one that could easily cross the line. Hal was here to do his job and he would keep doing it. The next time he found out Misty was helping cut corners, it would be Reese knowing about it.


The television drones on in the living room, casting light and shadows around the dark room. As the remote slips from Ryder's hand onto the floor, his eyes pop open. How long he'd been dozing, he wasn't even sure. But it was getting late.

Yawning, he rolls over on his side, thinking about getting up and calling TJY to see if Laura or Katie were just working late. But Henry crawling up to lie on his hip makes him stay a few minutes longer. The cat's purring was enough to start putting him back to sleep again.

The sound of squealing tires though, makes Ryder jump. He hears a loud engine roaring up the street, and for a moment, his pulse quickens. There was always traffic, but it usually wasn't quite as rowdy as this sounded.

Getting up from the couch, he wanders to the window, just in time to see a van speeding around the corner. It puts on its brakes, laying rubber, and there are several men just visible under the street light.

Ryder's heart leaps into his throat and he has just enough time to throw himself onto the floor before the gunfire rips through the house. Bullets whiz through the room, slicing through the front door and shattering the windows. Ryder stays on the floor, covering his head with his hands. He hears Henry wail in fear and looks up just fast enough to see the cat race down the hall, escaping the barrage.

Suddenly, the gunfire stops. Ryder breathes heavily, his heart pounding in his chest. What was going on?! Who were these people? What were they after?

Crawling on his stomach, he makes it over to the end table where he'd stuck his handgun up underneath. Pulling it out, he checks to make sure it's loaded before rolling over and around the corner. He could hear footsteps on the porch. Two men? Three? He wasn't sure. But one thing he was sure of was that if they caught him, he would be dead.

He hears the door open and hears the clicking of guns. He closes his eyes for a moment, trying to catch his breath. He counts in his head, waiting for the right moment to show himself. It was risky. There were no lights on, and whoever was there might very well have night vision equipment. The bullets that had entered the house weren't from any normal gun off the street. These were professionals.

Making it to ten Ryder rolls out from his hiding place in the hallway. Gunfire echoes in his ears as he makes a somersault into a kneeling position in front of three adversaries. One goes down. Two go down. The other turns to flee.

Ryder ignores the two downed men for now and rises to his feet to sprint after the third. He didn't take the time to think about how strange it was that the third one didn't stick around. But a chase to the van is futile. Ryder doesn't dare fire any more shots into the neighborhood, and the enemy gets to the van just fast enough to burn rubber as he speeds away. Whoever it was, certainly wasn't loyal to his partners.

His pulse still pounding, Ryder stands in the street, only now realizing that he was still in his bare feet. Wincing, he slowly walks back towards the house. Sirens could already be heard. A neighbor had called the police.


The TJY phone rings, answered by Susanne. But several minutes of searching proves she can't find Reese anywhere. Finally she calls Nate's phone. "Nate? Chief Brown on line two. He asked for Reese, but you're up."

Once Brown hears someone's voice, he quickly explains his call. "We got a situation down here at the resident of some of your agents." He rattles off Laura and Katie's address. "The place is shot up, we got two people dead, and one Australian guy claiming to be Elite too." He pauses to speak to another officer who was out on the sidewalk with him. Red and blue lights illuminated the small portion of the street, five officers were picking up evidence and two more were inside checking the bodies and trying to get answers from Ryder. "I need someone down here to figure out what on earth is going on before anything else can happen."

Boost

Looking up from her desk as Hal comes in with Alec a grin forms on her lips that is gone as quick as it came. Standing Misty grabs a few items for Alec's hand.

"You know Carson have every right to be there as much as the next person when it came to trying to find answers about Katie seeing as Jason asked him to be on the case. I trusted him not to hurt Alec to badly as well, maybe you do the same."

Turning her back to Hal Misty starts to work on Alec's hand she didnt want to argue, and she didnt want to fight it had been a late night and everyone was on edge. She had said her peace and that was that.

Taking a closer look at Alec's hand Misty can see how deep the cut is and knows she will need to stick it up. Tuning around once again she prepairs a needle to numb Alec's hand and gets a needle and some thread.

"All honestly here Alec your pretty lucky. That cut is pretty deep, any deeper and it would of cut your tendin and there would of been a good possibility you could never use your hand again."

Within no time Misty is finishing up the last stich on Alec's hand. She worked quickly and made sure there were snug before wrapping his hand up in some gause.

"Try not to open and close your hand to much and in a few days I'll check on it."

Carrying two cups of coffee Jamie can spot Con's big frame from around Laura's cubicle. Walking slowly Jamie makes sure she is not interupting anything. Giving a smile to Laura and than to Con the best one she could muster she holds out both cups of coffee.

"Its gonna be a long night. I thought maybe a little boost we be nice for us all."

Looking between Con and Laura again Jamie lets out a soft worryed sigh.

"Anything yet?"