RC Saga Vol. 1

Continuing the Story

2010-01-01T11:26:00.002-05:00

Been following the RC Saga?

Volume 2 is here.

Check out the archive on the right to read up on past segments.

Frustration

2009-12-31T22:51:00.004-05:00

"Maggie can you grab the bag of gifts from the back for me?"

As Nate turns around and is bum rushed by Laura he was happy nothing was in his hands being able to wrap them around her.

Pressing his lips to hers it felt like he hadnt kissed them in so long when it had only been a day.

Grabbing the bages from the back seat and than standing up again Maggie's eyes widen just a little bit as she blinks at Nate and Laura have there exchange of a kiss. Quickly covering her eyes with her free hand Maggie starts to walk quickly inside.

"Eeeewww....Nathan, Laura...gross."

Not being able to help the laugh that escaped his lips as Maggie went walking inside the house Nate has to pull back from Laura looking down into her eyes. Something was different he could see it. Maybe just this one day away was what Laura needed.

"Mmm...I missed you so much too."

Nate brings his hand to Laura's face and brush some hair from her face. Sweeping her up into his arms to carry her inside his eyes beamed as he looked at his wife.

"Your going to catch cold out here without a jacket."

Standing to go to the little makeshift stove Faith gives a smile as she drains the noodles. Thinking for a long moment.

"I always wanted to go to school to be a chef. Cooking has always been a passion for as long as I can remember. That, and learning how to ride a horse."

Faith gives him a sidelong glance her eyes twinkling showing that she understood Sparky had been sick and thats why she hadn't learned yet.

"Oh I guess I always wanted to write and paint too, but I think I would always choose cooking and cleaning first. Its a great way to show you care and take out your frustrations at the same time."

Why

2009-12-31T22:02:00.002-05:00

Lost. That's the only word Gunner would be able to use to describe how he felt right now. Dalton and Scott had collected some very good information and they had gotten past thick security walls that could be used to get into Crescentview. Yet JT's rebuke kept coming to mind.

Gunner drives down the busy streets, looking this way and that, simply killing time and trying to work through everything that was going through his mind. Music played on the radio but it was far from his concentration.

Every thought, every prayer... they all revolved around Bree. Every time he remembered where she was, he cringed. Every time he dwelt on how many days had passed, his stomach turned to knots. She was his friend... more than a friend. And without her, he was realizing just how much she meant to him...

It was half an hour later, and the church was still and quiet. It was getting dark out, and candles were lit along the inside perimeter. Long pews stretched on each side and intricate woodwork towered above the sanctuary on the high ceiling. Enough line shone to make way for any weary traveler.

Gunner walks... trudges down the carpeted aisle. Stopping before the great stained glass window and alter with candles, he stares up at a statue of Jesus on a cross, alongside his mother Mary. She had such a peaceful expression.

Removing his baseball cap, Gunner lowers to his knees, his eyes still fixed on the quiet figures. He'd been brought to the Catholic church early on after the accident so many years ago. He'd often wondered if there was more, and long talks with Con had proved there was. He didn't always agree with all of the beliefs of this church, and he knew when he prayed, it was to God and no one else. He had been immersed several years ago for different reasons than perhaps some people from this congregation believed. But though he'd been seeking for a family where he felt he fit, here was where he had found peace and so here it was that he came.

God... why? Why did you let this happen? I don't understand. Bree is your child as much as I am... I just don't understand. How can we get to her? Surely you won't let her stay there in misery and let the enemy win. Surely it can't be your will to have us sit back and wait, blind as she suffers.

His eyes search the ornate workings before him that symbolized peace and love offered to all who would accept. His heart ached. But no more words seemed to form in his mind. His spirit was in anguish. All he wanted was an answer... all he wanted was a way.

Jade can't help her smile as she curls her fingers around Dan's. "You're right... and thank you. You may get more than you bargained for and get tired of me hiding behind you all the time."

Her eyes twinkle with mischief. "Or maybe not."

"Heeeey."

Jade swings her head around to the table behind her and smirks before giving Jeff's back a firm whack with her hand.

Jeff's chuckle is heard, though he doesn't turn from his table.

Jade's cheeks are red, but she doesn't care, and looks back to Dan. "We better be careful talking about those hiding places or they won't be secrets anymore."

Sparky's lips upturn at Faith's comment. He was sleepy and his body ached, but she held an air that kept him wanting to stay awake. "All the time, huh?"

He cocks his head, thinking for a long moment and probably further than he should have. But it was a gentle sequence that didn't bring color to his face, despite the context. "You've got the world at your fingertips and all your want to do is cook? Surely there is more in that heart of yours than that."

..............

Laura looks out the window and sees Nate's car, her eyes lighting up. She'd missed not being with him for over twenty-four hours. It just hadn't seemed right. Tossing aside the dish towel, she heads for the door just as Nate is getting out of the car.

Not caring that she didn't have a jacket on in the chilly breeze, she runs pellmell into Nate, wrapping her arms around him and giving a short laugh. Stopping to look up into his eyes, a smile was on her face this time - a genuine smile. "I missed you."

Find me

2009-12-31T19:25:00.002-05:00

Coming to sit in the chair that Faith had dubbed her own as the food on the stove cooked she braught her one leg up on top of the other as a half Indian sit.

"Hey, if you get use to it, than that means I can cook for you more.."

Faith gives Sparky as grin as she can feel her own cheeks turn a little red. Once again like before Faith liked being here right now, and even if she got embarrassed she felt comfortable like she had known Sparky all her life.

"I think it would be nice to cook for someone all the time again. Since my mom and dad passed I don't do nearly enough of it anymore."

Sitting at the table with Jade Dan gives a nod with his head as another mouth full of food enters. The meal seemed extra good tonight but maybe that was because Jade, and him had spend the whole day riding in the mountains forgetting about lunch. Whatever it was though Dan was happy to be sitting across from her once again.

" I don't think that makes you a horrible sister at all actually."

Dan pauses for a moment taking a drink of his water collecting his thoughts before speaking again. He didn't know Dylan more than what Jade had told him, and the last thing he wanted to do was say the wrong thing.

"In all honesty I think you just a little scared to have him here. Things haven't always been the greatest with you guys, and you just think it might be the same old song. Its completely normal and there is a difference now too...."

Dan gives a smile as he reachs across the table and takes Jade's hand in his own.

"..You have hide aways and someone who can hide with you to make you smile."

Karla can't help the laugh that escaped her lips as she watched Carol and Kip interact. If she had never been told that they went really mother and son she never would of guessed differently. Just the was Carol seemed to act was so much like a mother you could tell she really did care.

Giving a small shakes of her head and starting to follow Carol Karla grins.

"If I dont get lost forever in this big house. Promise you will come and find me if I do Kip."

Karla sticks out her toung at Kip before continuing to follow Carol.

Conqueror

2009-12-31T18:40:00.003-05:00

Sparky finds a spot at the foot of the bed, after shedding his boots, to sit. It was unusual for him to settle down cross-legged, but tonight it just felt comfortable and it was a good vantage point to watch Faith as she prepared supper. Smelling the spaghetti sauce made him wonder if perhaps he was just a little hungrier than he'd thought.

"You know..." His eyebrows rise as he thinks. "I don't know if I remember a time when someone has cooked just for me... let alone twice in the same day. You better be careful or I'm liable to get used to it."

"So... Mom said yes." Jade picks at her supper. It was quiet at their table tonight... Clint and Wendy were spending time at home, Rosetta and BJ were at their house, Luke wasn't able to get around today so Angel was home cooking for the two of them... with those gone, it really put a dent in the socializing.

Jade looks across the table at Dan, sighing. "I guess she finally figured it was better to let Dad have a go with Dylan instead of still trying to do it herself. I know Grandma won't be happy but... she's not happy about a lot of things. I'm just... I don't know... I love my brother, and I was so worried about him, and I just feel terrible about all the stuff he's gotten into, but... having him here... I don't know what to think of that. Am I a terrible sister for feeling like that?"

Kip rolls his eyes and take the book he has to lightly bop Karla over the head. "If I would have minded, I wouldn't have asked! I ask because I want you along, not because I'm so bored I just need to drag someone along."

"If you're ever bored," Carol intervenes, "you realize you've got plenty to cure that."

"Oh yes." Kip nods vigorously. "But today is my day off." He throws Karla a wink. "So I don't have to go out and scrape paint off the tool shed. I can sit in here and read a book instead."

"You do that, and pick a chair this time." Carol shakes her head in amusement before turning back to Karla. "You can come with me and we'll figure out the logistics then you can wander back here to find him before you two run off to Theo's."

"Oh, Hon, that's wonderful!"

"Is it?"

Laura recalls her earlier conversation with Paula. She sits on the guest room bed in the corner with her knees tucked up close and her head resting against the wall. She'd been at the farm all day now, and it had been short and long at the same time. After calling Nate, she'd hemhawed around for about fifteen minutes, and Paula had needed no more time than that to inquire as to what was wrong. A session over a cup of tea had ensued.

"We wanted a family... I think... maybe... just not this soon."

Laura sighs. She was done crying. Crying wouldn't do any good, and it wasn't going to change anything. He mind wanders to Nate. She loved him so much. And thinking about them having a family together did have an appeal. It really was something special. It was the blessing that Laura knew was there, but it was hard to accept anyway.

"But everything is going to change."

"Yes." Paula nodded without hesitation. "It is."

Laura blinked at Paula's lack of reassurance. "But... but I don't want it to."

Paula smiled and reached across the little kitchen table to put a hand to Laura's face. Pride shone in her eyes. "If God waited until you felt a hundred percent ready, would you ever?"

Laura's eyes fell and her cheeks grew warm. With her... probably not. Change was not on her list of things she liked, no matter how big or small.

She stretches a leg out and reaches over to the nightstand where she had set a little teddy bear. She couldn't remember the exact time Nate had given it to her, but she'd packed it before coming here. It wasn't as good as his hug, but it made her feel warm inside as she cuddles it close to put her face down into its fur.

"You're right that everything will change," Paula confirmed. "Laura Gibbs ended when you married Nate. Now Laura Driers the wife is ending and becoming Laura Driers the wife and mother."

"All our plans though... they're all gone."

"Yep. I know you had a couple trips planned and those will have to be set aside. Your career will change. Your relationship with every single person you know will change. With your brother, with your husband, with me, with your friends, with your coworkers. It will be different."

Laura smirked a little and looked down into her cup of tea. "Why can't you tell me I was wrong?"

She had wished she were wrong. There was just so much to think about. Another sigh comes and she lifts her head to look out the window. Just because she hadn't wanted to tell Nate yet didn't mean she didn't miss him.

"Because you're not." Paula chuckled. "Your freedom is gone and you know it. You're not stupid. I had a friend who thought having her first child would change nothing. It was quite a reality check once that baby was born. Her freedom was gone, she couldn't spend time with her friends like she had, and she started to miss the alone time with her husband, too. It was a hard lesson for her, but by the time number two showed up, she'd become a great mom."

She cocked her head and looked at Laura lovingly. "I know you didn't want these changes. I know you want your daily living to stay the same. And I know you didn't want to quit your job. But you know what?" She smiled. "Those things that you are losing won't leave empty holes. Yes... things between you and Nate will change, but you'll have something even greater to bring you closer together. Yes... things will change between you and your friends - your good friends. But you'll still be friends. Yes... things between you and your brother will change, but you'll always be brother and sister. Yes... your job will have to be set aside, but in five or six years, who's to say you can't go back to police work?"

"That's a long time."

"Yes it is. And in the meantime you might get another surprise that will make it even longer. But you can't focus on your losses, Laura. I know it's scary. And I know on a certain level, you're probably disappointed that things have to change now. But God can move mountains and part the sea... He can bring joy to your life too, no matter what changes take place."

No matter what changes. Laura sits up a little straighter and stares down at the teddy bear. She was a conqueror. She always had been. Even if things threw her for a loop and she crumbled in the beginning, in the end, she was a conqueror. She knew that's part of what Nate loved about her. She needed him to keep her safe, yet if he were gone, she would survive.

She thinks about what her job was like when she was out in the field with TJY. There was nothing she wouldn't face. There was nothing she couldn't overcome. She was the tough chick that even Hotshot himself admired. No one knew about her tears at home or when she'd run to Con to fall to pieces behind closed doors.

This really was no different. She'd had her little crying session and had faced the shock. Aunt Paula had helped her think things through and though finding that she hadn't been wrong about all the changes that would happen, she'd been reassured that it wasn't the end. Some things would end, yes. But Laura herself had not ended. This was just a new hurdle to be conquered and with God's help, she could do it.

"What about raising a child and... and making sure it knows God? I mean... wow."

Paula chuckled again. "You're right. It is a 'wow' job. But are you a strong Christian?"

"I try to be."

"Is Nate?"

"Oh, yes."

"With two strong Christian parents, that child will receive all of the instruction it could ever need. And that's the most you can do. The rest is up to God - just like everything else. And when you get scared that your child will take the wrong path, you pray and pray hard. You put your faith in God then pray some more."

Pray. Laura knows that all her strength was in God. Nate was her strong tower when she needed shelter, but when more than a hug was needed, it was always God that saw her through. He would see her through this too. Yes... things would change, and in a very very big way. But there was a flip side. There were things to look forward to and... it was a new adventure.

For the first time since finding out the news, a smile breaks Laura's lips. A flutter goes through her stomach at the thought of telling Nate. She would be excited... for both of them. She would be positive for their family's sake. And slowly, she would conquer this. Now... how on earth would she tell Nate?

Getting up from the bed in a hurry, Laura trots down the hall to the kitchen. "Paula? Can we go do our shopping tonight before Nate and Maggie come in the morning?"

The little teddy bear remains on the bed, recovering from being squeezed. Many things would need to be sacrificed... but God would help all recover... and blessings would follow.

Destination

2009-12-31T14:50:00.002-05:00

Going first into the bunch house Faith gives a small laugh. She was happy Sparky was letting her come back to the bunk with him. Not that she didn't like spending time with everyone else it just seemed more fun to be with Sparky.

"Well, I will at least make something even if you don't eat that's alright but than there will be food there incase you do her hungry. It was save you a trip to the dinning hall."

Once Sparky is in and the light turned on Faith gets to work pulling what few items she had put into the fridge out.

In no time on the small gas grill Faith had spaghetti starting to cook. It would take a little bit longer than a stove but the slower it cooked the better it would taste.

Hearing that she wouldn't have to work tonight and could start tomorrow a bit of excitement flashes on Karla's face. She had, had such a blast with Kip before she new there would be no problem doing it again. Just spending time with people was nice too. Alot better than sitting around her cold apartment.

"I"ll go with you than. If you really dont mind that is Kip!"

Karla new that if he had minded Kip wouldn't have asked, but non the less they had to throw that on there anyways.

A little shocked and taken back, but the next perk to her job, getting free food had not been on her list. But to know they would shair there own with her like that was nice. Maybe now she would have less days of going hungry. Everything seemed so unread.

"Yes please. I would like to take the job. Anything is better than nothing not to mention you offer some good perks too."

Looking to Kip Karla throws a smile before looking back to Carol. She couldnt help but be excited about this new adventure.

Sitting at his desk Nate continues to work while listing to Laura on the other line. It was strange to think about how Laura wouldn't be there when he got home. It had been quite a while since they had been apart from each other. It would be a long night, but a better tomorrow when he got to see her again.

"Yeah I have been watching the weather here at work too. Just be carrel and yes please call me when you get there so I know."

Nate didn't want to sound over protective of Laura, he he just wanted to know when his wife got to her destination ok so he didnt have to worry.

"I love you Laura and I will be bright and early tomorrow."

Gentle wave

2009-12-31T09:03:00.003-05:00

Sparky quirks an eyebrow as he treads slowly across the ranch yard.
Yes! I would love that. I've enjoyed your company all day and really don't want to go back to my bunk alone. I feel like I haven't talked to you enough, like there's so much more yet to hear. You're fascinating as I listen to all the things I don't yet know about you, but I feel like I've known you for years at the same time. Who needs quiet time and space when they've got someone like you around?
He shakes his head, a wry grin sneaking onto his lips. "Sure. I don't have much of an appetite, so don't take offense if I don't eat much but... your company is more than welcome. I just hope you don't get sick too."

Wandering towards the bunkhouse, a few people going to supper greet him, happy that he's on the mend. He makes light of the topic, not liking the attention, or thinking about how sick he'd been. Making it back to his porch, his walk is weary as the short excursion has made him quite tired. He tries his best not to let it show though, and holds the door open for Faith. "Since the sun is setting behind us, shadows must go first."

Carol could see the spark in the young woman's eyes and knew there was much more here than someone just wanting some extra cash. Kip had always been sensitive to others who were in need, and it was now proven again. And Carol's heart was big enough to let someone else in.

Shaking her head with a smile, she answers Karla. "You don't have to do a thing tonight, other than have fun with the others. If you want the job, you can start as early as tomorrow."

Kip's grin widens and he glances to Carol. "Don't forget to tell her about the food too."

Carol gives him a sidelong glance, question passing through her eyes. "The...?"

"You know." Kip nods. "Since she'll be working here."

"Oh...oh! Yes... of course." Carol blinks before turning back to Karla, having finally gotten Kips hint and agreeing. "When we go back to the study, we'll go by the kitchen and I'll show you the one refrigerator where we keep leftovers and basically food that's just on hand for things other than our main meals." She laughs. "It's the one Erik and Kip raid all the time. But basically you can help yourself any time. If you forget your lunch or anything, that fridge is always open, so don't be shy."

Kip lifts his eyebrows several times, lowering his voice to a whisper. "We keep the ice cream in that freezer too."

Carol rolls her eyes in amusement. "So yes... if you think you'd like to take the job, we can go start on the paperwork."

Gage shrugs then shakes his head. "I really don't have a preference tonight. You pick."

Though perhaps things had grown between Gage and Sapphire, now that they had both expressed a liking for each other, their interaction didn't seem to change much. Conversation was still enjoyed, and quiet moments were too. Gage found himself at ease like always, just a little surprised that his boldness earlier had not led to more awkwardness. But it hadn't... it was just like they always were but... better... warmer. But not embarrassed or awkward. It was something new... but not scary. Unknown... but not feared. And when he looked into Sapphire's eyes, nothing was different. She was the same... he was the same. Maybe things were even easier now that they knew they both felt the same way. All in all, Gage liked it. Maybe he was getting closer to the life he wanted after all.

For some, the night comes and goes like a gentle wave, crashing upon the shore then slipping away, lost to time but not forgotten.

Laura pulls into a gas station, needing to fill the car before traveling out of town. But before getting out, she takes her cell phone and dials, waiting for Nate to answer. They'd been able to see each other only for a couple minutes this morning, and it just wasn't enough.

"Hey, it's me... just wanted to let you know I'm on the road. There's some rain predicted, but it shouldn't get much worse than that by the time I get to Dan and Paula's. Do you want me to call you again when I get there?"

Growl

2009-12-30T23:22:00.002-05:00

"Ah, maybe she wont raz you to much. I bet if she is smart she will know the fresh air is good for you as well. Than again maybe razzing you is just something fun to do."

Coming back around and just listing to the night sounds everything seemed so peaceful. It was hard to believe term oil could ever be layed to rest here. Everything just seemed to fit right, and run so smooth.

Feeling Sparky's hand rest against hers for a moment Faith can't her but curl her fingers just a little before releasing them again. Giving a little giggle she could feel her cheeks getting red already as there was a flutter in her stomach.

Starting to walk back twords the bunk house Faith slows her walking just a little. It felt strange to not want the walk to end. To feel like you had enough energy to walk around the ranch another 5 times and still not be tired. But all good things had to come to an end, and Faith wasn't even sure if she had worn out her welcome already.

"If you want, I come make you some dinner. I love to cook so I wouldn't mind. But if you would like your space and quiet time I could let you be as well. I know I have kind of been your shadow as of late."

Giving a hearty laugh Dalton nods understanding what Scott was saying. He was getting quite tired himself after working all day and night.

"Understandable. I'll see you back bright and early. It your turn to bring the jerky. I'll get another supply of MD!"

Giving a laugh as Kip slides down the latter Karla couldn't help the slight patter in her heart that seemed to be over looked for the last few days. Maybe it was just the excitement of everything but it still felt good to know she had someone to look forward to seeing.

As Kip invites her to come to there band practice and than join them for pizza Karla's face lights up. She hadnt eaten all day because of lack of food, so at the thought of pizza made her tummy growl.

"I'd like that..."

Giving a glance to Carol Karla smiles.

"..that is if your mom doesn't need me to clean tonight?!"

Pulling the car out of the parking lot and starting out down the road. Sapphire throws a glance to Gage. A bit of color was still on her face from the exchange they had, but there was a soft twinkle in her eyes that had not been there before. It almost felt as if she was standing a little bit taller now.

"Ohhhh...yeah I can talk to him for you. I don't see why he would have a problem with that as long as he cant find some time from work. He defiantly is better in the finding good cars than I am."

Quiet again for a little bit as they drive Sapphire makes a quick stop at a mail box to send out some things she had from work. Pulling away and starting down the road again she makes a comment to Gage.

"You know we never decied where we should eat. Have any favorites you would like to go to?"

Strange feelings

2009-12-30T23:04:00.002-05:00

Sparky chuckles and shakes his head. Adjusting his weight, he just watches Faith walk backward for a moment, admiring how her features reflected the soft moonlight and how her eyes sparkled. Finally he gives in and starts forward again, coughing just a little as he tries not to laugh more. "Well, I don't want to be accused of making you walk alone."

Catching up to her, he falls into step beside her once again. "Angel's gonna go check on me just to find me gone," he muses. "She'll probably give me a hard time, but this fresh air has felt good."

Passing a bush by one of the corrals, he reaches out to snap a dead twig off to keep his fingers busy. Eventually, small talk seems to run out, so silence falls upon the two, the only sound the soft crunching under their feet. They wind up a ways away from the ranch yard, circling back in a wide arc.

The twig in Sparky's hand had been whittled away by his fingers down to almost nothing, so he tosses it on the ground. As his hand swings back to his side, it brushes against Faith's own hand and for a moment, rests against her palm.

Feeling heat on the back of his neck, Sparky quickly slips his hand into his pocket, ignoring the strange feelings he'd been experiencing since the other day. "I guess they'll be starting supper now," he comments, implying that their walk was probably coming to an end. He was aimed toward his bunk though, still not intending to join the others.

"Dude, you are so good." Scott returns the high-five before leaning back and stretching. "I want to do more, but I'm afraid my brain isn't going to handle anymore tonight. Not to mention, if I don't get home, Domino's liable to take her frustration out on the carpet."

He smirks and stacks up some of his own printouts. "Reconvene tomorrow?"

Kip's grin stays on his face as he closes the book he'd been reading. "I'm doing alright. It was either read a book or play the guitar but seeing as though I left that at Theo's... the books got a turn."

Karla's comment that she'd hoped to see him seems to make his eyes smile just as little bit more. "I see you're getting the grand tour."

"She is," Carol confirms. "Seems she'll be able to find her way around here in no time if she decides to take the job."

"I hope she does." Kip proceeds to slide down the ladder instead of turning around and climbing.

Carol rolls her eyes. "One of these days you're going to land on your backside and I'm going to laugh."

Kip laughs. "You've been telling me that for years and it hasn't happened yet."

"There's a first time for everything."

Kip just grins and shakes his head, looking back to Karla. "If you don't have any plans after you're done, I gotta swing back over to Theo's to get my guitar, then later we're all gonna hang out for a bit of practice then pizza... you're more than welcome to join."

Gage's eyes glisten as he returns Sapphire's smile. He's a little surprised when she leans in again, not having expected that reaction. But his smile grows wider when her stomach interrupts them. He gives a light laugh and nods. He hadn't been hungry earlier, more upset than wanting food. But he was in a better mood now and figured he should at least try to eat something. "Okay. I just gotta get something on my feet."

Once he's got his shoes and socks on and has donned his denim jacket, he follows Sapphire outside to her car. Settling in the passenger seat and buckling in, Gage watches as she puts the car in gear and backs out of the parking space.

"Hey, Sapphire..." He pauses, studying the car for a few moments. "Your brother... knows a lot about cars, right? Do you... think he'd be willing to teach me how to drive... then help me find a car sometime? Sometime when I can afford it, I mean?"

Spending

2009-12-30T18:11:00.002-05:00

"Mmmmm...."

Nate can't help the soft moan that came from his lips as Laura runs her hand through his hair, she sweet lips pressed to his own. His emotions coming forth in his own kiss, but keeping it decent in case Maggie entered the room.

As Laura pulls away Nate looks up into her eyes searching them for a long moment, a smile on his lips though still a little worry lingered. Wrapping his arms around Laura Nate pulls her into a strong hug.

"Its ok. You go take your bath and I will clean up dinner, and get Maggie to bed."

Walking in the night air with Sparky was enjoyable like it had been since she got there. Talking with him came so easy and even the silence felt comfortable. Two things that didn't come easy for her till she met Sparky.

Coming to the mess hall and hearing Sparky's comment Faith gives him a sidelong glance a grin forming on her face.

"I wouldn't be here if I didn't want to me, and I am here because I like spending time with you."

Turning around and walking backwards a few steps Faith shakes her head a little her eyes twinkling in the night light.

"Well, are you coming? or gonna make me walk alone now?"

Reaching for his own print outs Dalton looks through the papers before his computer once again. Clicking through a few more things and finally coming up with the web page he was looking for while listing to Scott.

Leaning back in his chair Dalton gives a grin as he holds the papers out to Scott.

"I got the utility services, and..."

Dalton moves his computer monitor around so Scott could see the list of names, times, dates for the next month.

"..Each person's work schedule. I think this should help Gunner out. I even found a way into there security camera's and can shut them off, even get there feed for each room right here."

Holding his large hand out for Scott to gives a high five Dalton pops another peace of jerky in his mouth with a large sip of pop.

Misunderstanding

2009-12-30T00:24:00.004-05:00

Nate's question brings Laura's head up to look him in the eye. Glancing to the kitchen and knowing Maggie was still at the table, she sits up then scoots over, straddling Nate's lap to face him. Cocking her head, she puts her lips to his, offering a slow kiss as her hands move up to rake her fingers through his hair.

Drawing back, her eyes lock with his once more. "Of course I know you love me," she whispers. "And I love you too... with all my heart."

Wrapping her arms around his neck, she nuzzles into him for a cuddling hug. "It's just been a long day," she mumbles into him. "I'm sorry if I'm a grouch. I think I'm going to go take a hot bath before bed."

Sparky accepts his boots and socks and throws Faith a withering look, though his eyes held a teasing glint. "The day I can't find my way around here is the day they need to call the loony bin to come pick me up."

He leans down to don his socks, then pauses. "Of course... most days its a struggle just to get this old head on straight."

Finally finished, he stands up, heaving a sigh. "Okay... let's see what the great outdoors is like today." Finding one of his jackets, he also slaps his worn cowboy hat on his head. Opening the door, he takes a deep breath. The evening air was a little chillier than he'd expected. Even during winter months, it really didn't get all that cold this far south, but after being in a toasty room for the last few days, it did feel cold outside.

Stepping out on the porch though, he's hit with a wave of dizziness. The closest thing to hang onto is Faith's shoulder as he closes his eyes for a moment. "Mmm... sorry..." He blinks and shakes his head a little. "Maybe my head isn't on as straight as I thought it was."

Coughing again, he waits for that to pass and finally goes slowly down the steps. Taking it easy, he tucks his hands in his pockets and wanders to the perimeter of the ranch, forcing himself not to go to the barn. Once they're close to the dining hall though, he stops and turns to Faith. "I think I'll be okay now... you don't have to stick with me just 'cause you think you have to or anything." Though he really did enjoy the company, he didn't want to burden her unnecessarily... even if what he thought she might have said earlier was true. "I'm sure you'll want to spend time with some of the others here at supper. I'll probably head back to my bunk though and spare the others my germs that I'm coughing all over the place."

Scott look sat his computer screen with satisfaction, then glances to Dalton's as well, finding that they both were going at about the same pace. It was getting late... after dark and way after hours. But with enough Mountain Dew and classical music, neither men wanted to call it quits yet.

"What ever did TJY do without us?" he teases. Leaning back in his chair, he picks up all the pages that had been printed out for Gunner. "Okay, so far we've got surface information... a few doctor's names... some of the nurses... and we do have a layout of the Crescentview's building. I think what would be really good is if we can lay eyes on a schedule... when security switches over... when they lock up for the night... that sort of thing. And.... if we can tap into their computers and find out what places they use for utility services, maybe that could be an in for Gunner... pretty basic, but the 'tv repair guy' routine still works on occasion."

Gunner paces... again. He couldn't sit still. He was wearing a path in the living room carpet, the same as JT was wearing one in the kitchen as he spent hours on the phone. Eventually, JT hangs up and comes into the living room, flopping down in his chair. "It's money," he confirms. "Bree's parents needed her out of the way to get their hands on an inheritance that rightly belongs to Bree."

Gunner stops pacing and quirks an eyebrow. "And she didn't know about it?"

"Not that I know of. But that's why this whole thing worked so smoothly. And now... I don't know. My lawyer worked all day and got nowhere. He said down every path is a dead end. Everywhere he turns, there's some legal blockade."

"This couldn't have been set up overnight."

"No... no, it's obviously a web of legal maneuvers set up over a span of time. My sister and her husband know what they're doing, unfortunately."

"So, now what?"

"I don't know. While we might have found a motive, it can't be easily proven, especially if they've got everyone convinced that Bree is legitimately insane. They could say it was just a coincidence about the money." JT pauses. "You get anywhere on Crescentview?"

"No... nothing. Their security is too tight for me to get through so... I got a couple recruits and they're helping me out." Gunner sits down slowly on the couch. Not only was he worried, but he missed Bree something awful. Days had passed.... he wasn't used to not seeing her in a day, let alone several in a row. It just felt... lonely. "You know if we find the right information, it's going to be up to us and not your lawyer."

"Whoa whoa..." JT holds up his hand. "Stop right there. What do you mean by 'recruits?'"

Gunner's eyebrows rise. "I mean a couple friends at work. Computer guys. They can get places I can't."

JT lets out a long sigh. "Gunner... when I said I wanted you to find information, I may have not minded if Reese didn't know you were spending time on it, but in no way did I want anything illegal to be done."

Gunner can feel his defenses rising. "Well, how else am I supposed to find the information we need?! I tried calling people and trying to get what I needed, but they're so tightly shut that I couldn't even figure out what internet provider they have! I got nothing without breaking into their system."

JT gives a little groan. "There are people out there, Gunner! You just have to find them."

"Well, I can't! Not in the amount of time we have! Getting into their system is the only way, and that will get us everything! I thought that's what you wanted."

"Of course I want their information! But we have to keep this legal, don't you understand? I wanted you to sniff around, not break through security! Any information I can get to my lawyer has got to be clean - otherwise he can't use it because he'll be at risk."

Gunner frowns, his temper bubbling again. "What does he care about schedules and electric companies?"

"If he knows names and he can find out who to call and who'd be most willing to listen, that's a plus. If he can find out if they're late paying their water bill, that's a plus. If he can find out when they need maintenance so he can have someone sniff around, that's a plus. But at least it will be him, and not us! Lawyers are here for a reason! We can't just go in the dead of night and steal Bree away!"

"Why not?"

JT eyes Gunner, realizing that his friend was serious. "Because if we get caught, we're at fault and we'll never get her out of there. We have to let the lawyer take the evidence we get and use it. At least he'll be doing the rest legally."

"But we're already doing things illegal!"

"Apparently you are!" JT throws up his hands. "And it's dangerous! I'm sorry, Gunner, but you're going to have to go right back to staying above the law here. Tell your friends to back off and we'll be okay. You need to snoop here, not cheat."

"But-"

"No!" JT shakes his head with emphasis. "I'm sorry if you thought I was okay with you crossing that line, but I'm not. If we don't keep this entire thing legal, we are sunk.

Gunner knew that what he'd implied to Dalton and Scot was different... and he was going to leave it that way. He did not trust this side of the legal system and if he had to figure out a plan himself, he would. Deciding not to argue any more though, he holds his tongue. Another day was gone and they needed to rest. He'd keep his own plan in the back of his mind. "Alright," he answers calmly. "We keep waiting."

Happy

2009-12-29T19:26:00.002-05:00

Just holding Laura Nate couldnt help it that his worry grew. He could tell when something was wrong, or things were just not right and when Laura didn't want to talk to him about it he deffintly new it was not something good.

As if he needed more confirmation that some really wrong Laura's suggestion of going up to Dan and Paula's a day early without him was a sure sign. Giving a shaky breath Nate just rubs Laura's arm. He wanted to desperately to know what was wrong, but he didn't dare ask, Not now.

"Ummm...yeah, I don't see why that would be a problem. Just drive safe, there is some bad weather coming up in the next few days starting tonight."

Leaning his head down on Laura's Nate closes his eyes for a moment taknig in Laura's sweet smell. She always smelled so good, and her skin always soft how could he ever tell her no.

"I love you Laura, you know that...right?"

Looking up from her book as she hears Saprky's voice Faith gives a smile closing it for now. She had started her book last night and now was almost done with it. Though she didn't mind at all. Watching over Sparky had given her quiet time, and time to read two things she loved.

"Than you did but its alright as long as I have a book. I slip into readying and I dont relize myself how much time slips by."

Placing her book on the dresser where it often found its home now Faith gives her own little stretch her back giving a few pops.

Giving a small laugh as Sparky trys to find his boots Faith walks over to the front door picking them up. Giving a shakes of her head she goes back over to the bed side and sits down handing them, and a pare of socks to Sparky.

"Here your boots are Spark. Are you sure you can make it outside without getting lost?"

Faith's eyes twinkle showing she was not making fun of Sparky but only teasing him. If he needed help she would more than gladly help him.

Following Carol around the house Karla new at least once or twice she would get lost before she really did know her way around. But non the less Karla was enjoying the tour and seeing what should would be doing for work.

Coming to the large oak Karla waits intently as Carol opens the large doors. Looking into the library Karla felt like she was in heaven. Stepping into the room Karla's eyes scan the books and the shelfs. Never had she seen so many books in one place before. So at aw with all the books Karla didnt even notice Kip.

Hearing his voice Karla gives a little jump coming back down to earth. Looking up to see Kip a smile forms on her face as she gives a wave back. She was happy to see him even though he had startled her.

"Heya. I'm hanging in there. How about you? I was hoping I would see ya today."

Surprise Perch

2009-12-29T15:56:00.006-05:00

Somewhere between awake and sleep, Sparky's eyes flutter for just a moment as the mug is taken from his hand but he remains quiet and still. His ears pick up the sound of a sweet voice and his sleeping mind recalls his angel's face, soft and glowing. Caught in a world of dreams, he cannot pull himself into complete awareness, but he hears the words being spoken and they bring about a special kind of warmth from within. Feeling the gentle kiss to his forehead, his mind tricks him into believing that he is reaching out for the angel. But she only smiles and backs away, fading into the blurred background. And he sleeps.

Several hours pass and the sun begins it's nightly journey towards the western horizon once again. Chores are being finished in the barn before dark, and talk is of supper. It had been a chilly day, and everyone would be glad to get inside for the evening meal.

Sparky opens one eye then the other, taking a slow glance around the room. It was a odd color... a rosy pink as the sun was setting. Somehow, Sparky had wound up under the blankets in bed again - he could only guess it had been his impromptu caretaker.

Rolling over confirms it. Faith is where she had been the last time he'd woken up - in the chair, reading. A sleepy smile comes to his lips. "I guess I left ya for a while." He yawns and stretches long, some of his joints popping as he did. "Mm... I'm getting stiff lying here for too long."

Yawning again, he props himself up with a pillow and looks at Faith again. He had a strange new memory tugging at his consciousness, and he searches Faith's eyes, wondering if his dream had really been a dream or not. This time though, he decides to tuck away that warm little thought and keep it to himself. Dream or reality, it made him feel good.

"I think I might want to get up and go outside for a bit," he muses. "Some fresh air sounds pretty good right about now." He was tired, but he knew it would do him good to get up and get out for a while. What he'd really like to do would be go check on things in the barn, but he knew better at this point. If he did, he'd have people all over him for working before he was well.

Managing to sit up, he runs a hand through his tousled hair and looks around the floor. "That is... if I can find my boots."

Feeling Nate on the couch, then his arm around her just about sent Laura into another crying mess. She managed to stay in control though, holding back the tears. She didn't want Nate asking too many questions... not yet... not when she wasn't yet ready to answer them.

Just resting under his arm for a moment, she then scoots to turn around and slide up onto his lap, curling herself into his chest and burying her face against his neck. She was her protection... her fort... her strength. And right now, she needed that strength.

Remaining quiet for several long moments, she just closes her eyes and lets him hold her. If they were ever apart, this is what she would miss the most... just him having his arms around her.

Eventually, she speaks, though it's soft and partially muffled against his shirt. "Would you mind if I went a day early to Uncle Dan and Aunt Paula's? Would that... would that be okay?"

Her fingers fiddle with his shirt collar. She knew he didn't really like it when she was gone, and all three of them would be going up to the farm this week, but maybe just one night extra night for her would be okay with him. "I can call when I get there and... and then we can do what we'd planned when you and Maggie come up?"

"Okay then." Carol smiles and stands up. "Let's start at the front of the house."

Leading the way, she takes Karla to the more familiar entrance of the house, then begins the casual tour. She shows her all the rooms that would need to be cleaned. Some were rarely used, but they were cleaned anyway so that dust did not build up. There was no real heavy cleaning, it just had to be consistent to avoid any deep cleaning later on.

Down one hall, up a flight of stairs, down another hall, up another, down another stairway... to those who lived there, they knew their way around like the back of their hand. But to a newcomer, it could feel a bit like a maze. It was not surprising that it would require so many hours to keep everything tidy. But if a schedule was maintained and every day a different section was tackled, it could be a relatively easy job as far as physical work went.

The back part of the house near the sun room and kitchen are only briefly pointed out as Carol knows Karla has already been there, and she also knows that Kyle and Alice are spending time alone and doesn't want to interrupt them. Continuing the tour, her tone is cheerful and warm as she tries to put Karla at ease.

"And this... this is a good room if you want some peace and quiet." Carol reaches for the large oak door and swings it open to reveal a library. And oh, what a library it was. Shelves of books lined the walls and stretched all the way to the ceiling. Several beautiful windows rose to the ceiling as well, giving a grand view of the same garden that the sunroom overlooked - but they were one floor above it. The wood floor had several plush area rugs and several couches and chairs were spread throughout for anyone wishing to spend time reading. A desk sat in one corner and up above in the middle of the ceiling was a grand chandelier. The room had an old feel to it with dark woodwork and it was arranged as one might find an old English home's library. The shelves were even complete with a couple rolling ladders so one could find the books they wanted on the top shelves. And it just so happens that one of them is occupied.

Instead of finding a soft chair, Kip was in his normal thinking spot, clear up top one of the ladders. Turned around to sit on one of the rungs, one leg was hanging down straight, while the other was brought up closer to his chest so his book could rest against his knee. Realizing that he was no longer alone, he peers down at the two newcomers and a smile spreads on his face. "Hey, you two."

Carol gives a little jump, startled by Kip's presence. "My word, Kip... you're going to give me a heart attack."

Kip's grin widens. "Sorry." His eyes shift to Karla and he gives a little wave. "How are ya?"

Kyle kisses the top of Alice's head and leans his own back, closing his eyes. "I don't think it would be possible for me not to let you follow me anymore. Even Peter Pan didn't want to live without his shadow."

Crazy

2009-12-29T06:54:00.003-05:00

Just listing to Sparky was nice and Faith loved it. Every word out of his mouth held something new, every story seemed exciting to her and she just wanted to hear more and more. Not growing bored, or tired once while listing to him.

As the tables are turned, and Faith start to talk about herself she starts with her own storys about being in Thailand and some of the things she found exciting. From how she would help her father with his bulls, to her mother in the kitchen. She could slip into the tomboy roll, and the woman roll very well when the time called for it. Though she preferred to get a little dirty form time to time.

As her story ends Faith looks over at Sparky and a grin form on her face as he was fast asleep once again. Faith could only hope it was not her boring story that had knocked him out.

Standing she goes over to Sparky to take the cup from his hand but stops just looking down at his sleeping form on the bed. Sitting down on the edge, she would only alow herself to watch him sleep for just for a moment.

Reaching her hand out, for a reason she was not even sure why Faith lets it brush Sparky's cheek. Liking the feel under her fingers. A bigger smile froms on her face as she just lets her fingers linger. A whisper forming on her lips.

"Thank you Sparky for letting me take care of you. If I died tomorrow, I'd be satisfied knowing I helped one last person before I went. I don't know why I feel so drawn to you, I just...do."

Leaning in to Sparky Faith could feel her heart race as she gave Sparky's forhead a gentile kiss before she retreated with the cup in hand to the small skin to wash up the few dishes they had. She'd never have the guts to say what she just did to Sparky while he was awake for fear he would think she was crazy for getting attached so fast.

Taking the last bite of food Nate looks up as Laura gets up to put her stuff in the sink. She had been over quiet today, and almost avoided Nate as much as she could to not talk with him. Since they had been married it hadnt been like Laura to do that. Sometimes she needed her space, but she would tell Nate and he would back off.

Looking across the table at his sister he watches the eyes that looked back at him. She to new something just wasn't write. Giving her a smile Nate dors her best not to worry her.

"Finish your dinner and I will be right back ok?"

Standing and bringing his own plate to the sink Nate ruffles his sister hair on his way back through.

Entering the living room slowly Nate was cautious not sure if Laura wanted to really be left alone or not, but if she did he figured she would tell him like she had before. Moving to the couch Nate side down just looking at Laura for a long moment. Something was wrong, he could feel it but would Laura reveal it in her own time to him? Reaching out Nate puts a gentile arm around her pulling her into hug. Maybe it was as simple as a bad day at the office but something told him it was more.

Following William through the house Karla couldn't help but be nervous. She'd been here before but now it was for a different reason and Kip wasn't there eather witch felt just a little strange.

Getting to the office and giving a smile at Carol Karla just studys her for a moment listening to her talk. Making her way to the table and sitting down Karla cant help but look around the office room. It was so big, and everything seemed so clean as it was. But finally her eyes come back to Carol as she listens to what she was explaining and the rules about working.

"Oh, Saturday and Sunday would be perfect says off. I'm really not picky."

Giving another friendly smile to Carol Karla continues listing. She had, had jobs much worse than cleaning someones house not to mention it would be quite the adventure to see every nook and cranny of the house.

Karla gives a small nod at the mention of taking a tour of the house. She had yet to see the whole thing and wouldn't mind.

"Sure, I'd like to see the rest of the house."

Receiving Kyle's kiss Alice lets her own passion show thought. Never could she tired of his lips, or his kiss. Alice felt complete again with Kyle and she loved him so much.

As Kyle draws back Alice looks up into his eyes a smile on her lips as she just gets lost for a moment in his eyes. Not answering right away one would think Alice didnt have an answer for Kyle but finally she words come soft.

"It's imposable to make a shadow go away, and the same is for me. No matter where you go Kyle, I will follow. As long as you let me."

Bringing her arm around Kyle Alice leans her head on his chest. Just listing to the sound of his beating heart. She felt so comfortable in this moment, and with Kyle.

Haywire emotions

2009-12-28T18:16:00.011-05:00

"Mmm..." Sparky swallows another mouthful of soup. "Well, you do a good job. And lemme tell ya, I've had a lot of different food in my time. I think I could handle this soup any day."

Glancing up now and again, he would catch Faith's eye and just look at her for a moment as if trying to see what lay behind her gaze. Indeed he was. He wondered what it was about her that drew him in. What was it that made him unable to keep his eyes off her for too long? What was it about her voice that made him want to listen, just to hear it? What was it that made her eyes shine with joy, even though she faced many trials? Perhaps simply knowing that she had sacrificed the last few days to help care for him was what intrigued Sparky.

Engaging himself in a bit of small talk, he chats while he eats, telling Faith about some of his horseback riding adventures, tales of where he used to live, and how God had helped him and this family through so much. Long after his soup bowl was empty, he wonders if he's ever talked so much in his life and hopes he hasn't bored Faith to death.

Even so, his body was growing more tired after it had been through so much the last few days. Eventually, he has slid back down on his side with his head on his pillow once more. The small talk was continuing, but it was Faith's turn, so Sparky listens, but his eyes grow heavy. He tries to keep them open because he wanted to listen, but before he knew it, he had slipped into sleep.

His chest moves in and out slowly in a gentle rhythm, his hand slowly sliding down to hang off the bed. Thankfully, his mug was empty of tea and it hung from his fingers instead of crashing to the floor.

Kyle chuckles as he likes hearing Alice's dreams, no matter if they were realistic or not. "Who knows... with the way things are going, nothing should surprise me anymore. Not to mention, it's all backward. How many guys get asked to head up a band that's already established? And to go with his name? It's crazy. Then to blend so well that one would think they'd been together forever... not to mention the chance for a record company to hear you?" He shakes his head. "That's God for ya though, huh? Always full of surprises and nothing that seems logical."

Pausing, he cocks his head to see Alice's face, a quirky grin forming. Wriggling his weight around, he pulls her up on top of him so he can wrap both arms around her in a tight squeeze. "Kind of like us. Totally illogical."

Still grinning, he brushes her hair from her face before gently pulling her closer so he can give her a kiss. It was only in the quiet moments alone that he let his passion through, and today he was just happy to be with his best friend.

Drawing back, his eyes carry on his smile. "Wherever this band ends up going... you'll come with me, won't you?" It wasn't the first time he asked her, and probably wouldn't be the last. But her assurance that she wouldn't leave was something that he clung to.

William strides to the door and opens it halfway, peering out to see who was there. Though his face was somewhat stern, there was a softness to his eyes. A smile was hard to find, but if one looked close enough, they could see it. "Hello, Karla." He also had a good memory. "Come in, please."

He opens the door wider and ushers her inside out of the chilly air. "I heard you might be coming," he muses. "You must be here to see Carol. Follow me, please."

His step is long but slow as he leads Karla down one hall, down a couple steps, up a few more, then down another hall and finally into what appeared to be a large study. "Someone to see you," he announces.

Carol had yet to meet Karla officially, though she had seen her spending time with the others last night. Looking up from her desk, a wisp of blonde/gray hair flutters on her cheek. Her eyes twinkle as a smile comes to her lips. "You must be Karla. Hello."

Standing, she walks across the room, nodding to William. "Thank you."

Nodding back, William takes his leave.

Carol looks back to Karla, still smiling. She was a tall and slender, elegant woman, fitting the this wealthy house, yet not holding any fake airs about her. "Kip told me you might be coming." She chuckles. "I couldn't tell if he wanted more for me to have the help or for you to have the job."

Wandering to a small table to the side, she motions for Karla to join her and sit. Folding her hands on the table, she gives a little sigh before explaining. "While we have a big house here, we don't keep as many employees as a lot of people would. We like to put our money to better use and so we all pitch in with upkeep. We do have a cook though, and a butler." She pauses, her eyes seeming to laugh. "He thinks being called a 'butler' sounds too stuffy though so we just call him William. Anyway, for some time, we've also had someone here every day who keeps things clean and in order. However, the last woman hired needed to leave suddenly, and this poor house is getting dustier by the day."

Pausing to collect her thoughts, Carol studies Karla a moment before going on. "It's really not hard work - nothing heavy. It's just dusting, cleaning floors and windows, maybe doing some laundry, and on occasion helping in the kitchen. Hours are flexible though in all honesty, it will take about thirty hours a week. You wouldn't have to work weekends, though if you'd rather have a different day off than Saturday, we can work that out too. Sunday's off are a must though - the whole house rests."

She stops again, her swarm smile returning. "If you like, I can walk you through the house so you know what all is involved."

Laura sits at the dinner table, picking at her food. Maggie was so sensitive when it came to other people's feelings that Laura really didn't want her to see her like this tonight. She felt miserable... and a little sick to her stomach too. Part of her problem though was that her husband was sitting right across from her and she had yet to tell him the news. Come to think of it, she'd barely made eye contact at all with him tonight.

Unable to stand the unusual silence any longer, she gets up from the table, taking her plate to the sink. She could feel Nate's eyes watching her, and could sense the questions he wasn't asking as he allowed her to have her own space. It wasn't like her not to talk to him... but tonight, she just didn't know how.

Not even bothering to clear off anything else from the table, Laura wanders to the living room. Sinking down on the couch, she hugs a throw pillow and pulls her knees up to curl into the corner. Right now, all she wanted was a hug... to be held... to bury herself into Nate's strong arms and forget how weak she felt. But knowing she was terrible company tonight, she didn't want to ask. He'd had a hard day himself, and she didn't want to burden him with trying to make her feel better.

Pulling herself up a little tighter, she closes her eyes, wishing for a moment that she were someone else... someone stronger... someone more grateful for what she had. She wished she were a better wife... someone more deserving of this life. With her emotions going haywire, it took all she had not to cry again. And a secret corner of her heart hoped that even though she'd been less than sociable tonight, that she would feel the couch move and know that Nate was near.

Paper

2009-12-28T12:55:00.003-05:00

Alice's eyes twinkle as she sits with Kyle. Just having time to be the two of them again felt good. It was easy to get lost in the glits of everything, but when time came along like this it really made you appreciate being long once more.

Leaning her head on Kyle's chest Alice just listens to him talk. His voice, words so soothing. A grin on her own face as she invasions a house like Kyle explained.

"Mmmm...my own room for writing...that would be amazing. Set up everything just how I want, have desks for everything...I couldnt even start my own paper."

Alice gives a little giggle knowing she was going over bored with the whole idea. But it was fun to dream.

"Yeah, that would be nice."

Coming up to the front door Karla lets out a long shaky sigh. She felt nervous, not sure why but she did. It might be that today she would find out if she had a job or not. Or it could be the odd feeling of working for her friends, friends mom that put the feeling in her stomach. But eather way she could us the money so she had to try.

Reaching out to push the doorbell Karla just waited shafting her weight from one foot to the next. Not sure who would answer the door, or what to even say when they did Karl waited.

Just looking back into Gage Sapphire can feel her heart start to pound louder as he draws closer. Her eyes never leaving his, as they seemed to capture his and she fell into them. His breath on her skin, it felt so nice, so warm.

As Gage draws in even closer Sapphire's eyes fall shut, feeling Gage's lips press aganst her it felt like a million volts ran through her at once. His lips so gentile, his passion so great even in such a little kiss. Letting her own emotions go and letting the kiss become more deeper Sapphire had never felt a feeling and a tingle like this before and she liked it. Her own emotions, and return kiss proving she did enjoy it.

As Gage pulls away Sapphire can't help the smile the was placed on her lips. Keeping her eyes closed for a few moments longer just trying to charis what was just shared. Finally opening her eyes to look at Gage feeling his finger run along her cheek there was a twinkle in her eye of the emotions she felt.

"The defiantly was a memorie worth making."

Just searching Gage's face, and his eyes his hand still on her face Sapphire wouldnt mind making another memorie. Leaning in wanting just one more kiss, her stomach makes a loud growl and her face turn red as she pulls away again.

"I guess my stomach is warning me again that I better eat."

Keeping her hand linked with Gage's she gives a soft smile to him.

"How about we grab some food?"

As the bathroom door opens and the smell of soap fills the air Faith looks up from the table. Seeing Sparky and how well he cleaned up Faith had to look away quick before finding herself stairing to long once again.

With in no time Faith has the food ready and and was serving it to them both. Hearing that Sparky liked the food made Faith feel good on the inside and she couldnt help the smile that spread on her lips.

"I made it myself. Its one of the few things I remember my mother making in Thailand. I braught some spice and stuff with us when I came here because I new I couldnt find it here. I was hopping it would come in handy and I...guess it had."

Taking her own spoon of soup Faith sips it quietly before looking back up at Sparky. Something about him just made her feel so at ease. She just felt...comfortable with him, and his voice was so soft yet strong at the same time. Faith loved listing to him talk.

Rosetta gives a nod even though Mick cant see her. She always hated when there conversations came to an end.

"I will tell him. I love you Mick. I can't wait for you to get home."

Hanging up the phone Rosetta lets out a long sigh. She did miss him, and she new BJ did too. Standing she goes and makes her way to the kitchen to start something for BJ to eat.

Imagine

2009-12-28T11:55:00.003-05:00

Mick falls silent, hating the things that separated him from his family right now. It was his own fault though, and he was paying for it. But it wouldn't be forever. If he could just hold out for a little longer... just a little longer.

"Mick?"

He turns quickly to see Brenda's gentle nod. Sighing, he focuses back on his phonecall. "I gotta go... I'll call back as soon as I get another chance. Tell BJ to keep the checkers board out."

Once showered and dressed, Sparky realizes just how sick he's been. Even this little bit of activity had him exhausted, and he was ready for more sleep. But he wanted to eat first.

Exiting the bathroom, he had on clean jeans, a t-shirt and socks, his hair still wet. He'd managed to get his face shaved, thankful to be rid of the itchy scruff. He wanders to the bed to sit again, bypassing the table for now... the bed was just so much more comfortable. He props himself up with pillows and closes his eyes a moment. "I feel better and worse at the same time," he muses.

Sighing, he opens his eyes again to watch Faith getting the soup ready. Cocking his head a little, he wonders again why she chose to be here, rather than outdoors or spending time with Annie.

Once he's set with the soup in front of him, he has a silent prayer then takes a bite. He cringes just a little as the hot liquid hits his one tooth... he still hadn't seen a dentist. But the pain was quickly replaced by the good taste of the meal. "Mmm... I don't know if I'm just that hungry or what, but this is really good." He takes another bite, eating slowly. "Who made it?"

Gage's eyes don't break from Sapphire's. He liked the feeling of her hand on his face... it was warm and soft. The far corner of his mouth upturns just a little, but he takes his time responding to her permission. He wanted these times with her burned into his memory, not rushed.

Mimicking her own movement, Gage takes his hand to cradle the side of Sapphire's face. It was even softer than he'd imagined against his palm. To be so close to those sparkling eyes was like being close to the stars. She'd accepted him when no one else did... she'd willingly been his friend when he deserved so much worse. And he couldn't help the feelings he had towards her now. Maybe he hadn't planned it, and maybe she didn't even feel quite the same way towards him... but he wanted to show her how grateful he was... and what his feelings really meant. 'Thank you' just didn't cut it anymore.

Leaning in close, Gage pauses with his eyes inches from hers. He searches them again, as if almost afraid she'd change her mind. But not seeing resistance, he cocks his head and gently touches her lips with his own, his eyes falling shut.

Still holding her one hand, he shifts his palm towards her own, interlocking her fingers with his. His other hand continues to cradle her face, keeping her chin tilted towards him. Letting himself be drawn into the moment, he ventures a deeper kiss, finding it sweeter than he'd imagined.

He lets the exchange linger for several quiet moments before he pulls away, his eyes opening again as his thumb gently runs along her cheek. "Thank you."

Laura sits in her car in the police station parking lot as another tear runs down her cheek. Her afternoon break was over before her late work day was finished out... she needed to go back inside now, but even more, she needed to compose herself first. She didn't need the others asking her what was wrong.

But sitting several more moments, her silent tears turn into sobs as she leans forward to rest her forehead on the steering wheel. She'd hoped that her doctor's visit would not confirm her fears... but it had. She wasn't ready for this. She hadn't planned this. She knew Nate wanted kids before either of them got too much older... they'd talked about it, but had not planned anything. She'd thought they were safe. But apparently their intentions had not been enough.

Now what would happen? She'd wanted to spend at least a couple more years in law enforcement - it was her passion. She and Nate had planned several trips for this coming year. They were doing okay financially, but things had been a little tight lately. Now her career would be forced to come to a sudden halt. The trips would have to be canceled - she either couldn't go that late in the game or they wouldn't be going with a baby. And finances... they just weren't ready for this.

Still crying, Laura lifts her face and pushes her hair back behind her ears. Grabbing some leftover napkins she kept in the car, she blows her nose and tries to dry her eyes. Deep down she knew that this was a blessing. Deep down she knew that if she and Nate had tried to avoid this at this point in time, that it must be God's plan. But that didn't take away the shock. From this point on, her life would never be the same. And it was a change she had not been prepared for. It wasn't her timing... it wasn't even her choice.

She liked where she was at... she liked her job, she liked her freedom of being able to go where she wanted, whenever she wanted. Now she would be staying at home, taking a baby with her wherever she went, or forced to hire a babysitter, which they couldn't afford anyway. The nights would be long and their homelife would be completely turned upside down. Nights out with their friends would be reduced to a minimum. Her time alone with girlfriends would be close to naught. All focus and energy would have to go towards one thing. Quiet nights would end... and there would be a whole new batch of serious responsibilities. Raising a child... raising it right and raising it in the Lord... talk about a burden she wasn't prepared for.

Taking a shaky breath, Laura swallows all the fear she could, in order to make herself presentable. Like it or not, she had a job to do right now. She had to set aside this discovery at least for today. She had to figure out how to deal with it all and figure out how she was going to be able to accept this change. Because she knew that there was no turning back now. From here on out, she had a completely different life. Like it or not, they'd passed the point of no return.

Her phone rings, making her jump. Seeing it was Con, she hesitates, but answers it anyway. "Hello?"

"Hey, Laura, it's me. Need a favor, if you're at work."

Laura sniffs. "Yeah... yeah, I'm here. What do you need?"

There's a pause. "You alright?"

"I'm fine."

"You don't sound fine."

Tears pool in Laura's eyes again and her voice cracks. "I'm fine, Con... just tell me what you need."

"Well I needed some files transferred over here... but I'd rather know what's wrong."

"Nothing!" Laura didn't like not telling Con. But if Nate ever found out that Con knew this news before him, he'd be more than upset. "Email me what you need and I'll get you the files today."

Con hears a click a the other end of the line and blinks at the dead phone. There was a strange feeling in the pit of his stomach that he'd never felt before. Laura had never cut him off like that before... ever, that he could remember. And even if she couldn't resolve her problems right away, she'd always told him what was wrong, whether she shouted at him or just needed a hug from her big brother. This was so unusual that it really threw him for a loop, and it hurt just a little bit too. Trying to forget about it, he hangs up and goes back to his work.

Drying her eyes again, Laura grabs her purse to put her phone away and finally gets out of her car. Throwing on her sunglasses, she heads into the station, prepared with an excuse for her red eyes.

The long day of practice was over. More would come tomorrow. Everyone needed to buckle down and get in all they could before presenting themselves. They'd come amazingly far in a short amount of time and for having Kyle as a new member, but all could only credit it to God. He had blended their personalities and talents just right so that anyone listening would think all of them had been together for years.

Kip paces around in the living room, bored. It was his day off as far as maintenance went, practice was done, and he didn't dare take a ride across town lest he be wallopped by Erik again. He looks at the clock. No one had said anything to him... had Karla called? Would she come? He couldn't help but hope she'd accept the job offer and at least come to see if Erik's mom would hire her.

In the back sunroom, it was quiet. Kyle sat in the corner of the couch, curled up with Alice as they took a breather alone. Kyle was tired from all of the activity, so relaxing felt good.

"This has been nice," he comments. "Unfortunately, I think I could get used to this." He doesn't move his head, but his eyes roam the room. His one hand absentmindedly rubs Alice's arm. He chuckles lightly. "Maybe when I hit it big, we could afford a place like this, eh? Plenty of room... indoor pool... throw in a white picket fence for good measure." He grins. "Can you imagine having your own room just for your writing?"

O.O

2009-12-27T23:07:00.002-05:00

Just listing to Mick again Rosetta's heart ached. She couldn't wait till Mick would be home again. It just seemed so lonely without him.

"I love you too Mick so very much. I wish I cold hold you right now, but I know you need to stay. I wait your return with open arms."

She really did mean it. Rosetta would wait till the end of time to have Mick in her arms again as long as she did. Loving him more than words could say Rosetta could never move one without him.

"BJ can't wait for you to come home eather. He miss you and loves you."

Looking up from the food at Sparky's razzing Faith could feel her cheeks turn red again. Not having time to reply to Sparky all Faith can do it laugh. It was good to see the humor come back in Sparky. Going back to the food Faith gets it ready for Sparky's return.

Feeling Gage's finger run along her palm, a chill runs down Sapphire's back as her heart starts to beat just a little bit faster than before. It was a feeling she could help.

Looking back into Gage's eyes and searching for the meaning behind his words they seemed like a cool drink to her ears. So soft, and full of emotion. Hearing he wanted to kiss her, was something Sapphire hadn't expected.

Bringing her free hand to the side of Gage's face Sapphire runs her own thumb over his cheek and jaw. Just letting her hand linger for a long moment as the smile stayed formed on her face.

"I'd say, that would be a memorie worth having for the both of us. Yes, Gage I would let us have that moment."

If

2009-12-27T22:42:00.002-05:00

Mick turns around and folds one arm across his chest, contemplating Rosetta's compromise. "That sounds fair," he agrees. "The last thing I want is for BJ to pick up bad habits. I love Dylan, but I don't want him at the ranch either if he'll be a bad influence on BJ. I'm hoping that it'll work the other way around but... if it doesn't... I'll let him go."

He meant it. He knew that he'd put up a fight to leave Rosetta and BJ to rescue Dylan, but more emotionally stable now, he could think through his logic better. "Rosetta..." He bites his lip. "I just... I want you to know I'm trying really hard. I want to come home now, but I'm relying on Adam to tell me when he thinks I'm ready. I just miss you so much... I miss seeing you in the morning..." He gives a soft chuckle. "I miss your cooking. I even miss how you yell at me when I do something stupid. I... I promise this is the last time this is going to happen. I'll be hanged if I ever let myself down like this again."

Sparky's head snaps up to Faith's comment, his eyes widening just a little. Her further stumblings only prove to raise his eyebrows even higher. Staring at her, he blinks. He knew good and well she'd meant nothing by what she'd said, and the implications were the farthest thing from the true motivation of her original comment. But even so, it had caught him off guard.

The corners of his mouth start to twitch and before he knew it, he was laughing. His face was just as red as hers, but his eyes twinkled with an innocent humor, renewed after being so sick. "You better be careful... it's my turn." It did seem as though they were taking turns with embarrassing themselves all of a sudden, but Sparky was finding it rather humorous at this point. "You never know when I'll strike again."

Still grinning, he manages to roll out of bed and stand a bit shakily. He was a little dizzy, but he wants to be up moving badly enough that he grits his teeth and wanders towards the bathroom. "You can warm up the soup... I'll, uh.... trust you not to barge through an unlocked door."

Not giving Faith time to respond, he slips into the bathroom, shutting the door behind him.

Gage looks down at Sapphire's hand in his and slowly moves his thumb to caress her palm. Then glancing back up to see her eyes again, he's so quiet... as if he's totally lost what they'd been talking about. It wasn't true though. He was only trying to understand her words and know their meaning.

"If I'm supposed to worry about today... and tomorrow... then that means worrying about each single moment." His voice is barely above a whisper. "And if I took this moment for all it was worth... and filled it with what I could carry into tomorrow... and if what I wanted to carry into tomorrow was the memory of kissing you... would you let me?"

Shower

2009-12-27T21:11:00.002-05:00

Giving another small laugh Faith gives a nod as she moves to the small fridge on the far end of the room. Starting to take a few things from the fridge. The cool air on her face felt nice helping it cool down a little. Standing and turning to Sparky again she gives a little nod.

"Oh I guess you can go get squeaky clean. I promise I wont watch."

Realizing the comment she just made and how it could be takin it was Faith's turn for her face to turn red. Stumbling over her words Faith trys her best best to explain what she ment.

"What I ment was...since I have...been watching over you the last few days...and I didn't want you to....think I would keep watching you in the shower."

Turning back to the food Faith opens one of the containers quickly fumbling with it for a moment. She couldnt believe she had just said that.

Sitting in the small chair in the livingroom of her house Rosetta watches as BJ plays with some of his toys of the floor, and Listing to Mick on the other end of the phone. It was good to hear his voice again and know he was doing well.

Hearing Dylan was off drugs was a good thing, but hearing he still wouldn't talk Rosetta felt bad. For Dylan and Mick both. What could the boy be scared of, or hiding that would keep he locked up like this.

At Mick comment of bringing Dylan to the ranch Rosetta thinks for a long moment. With his mouth, and the chip on his shoulder would Dylan really be a good influence for BJ at such a young age? It worryed Rosetta, but how could she say No. Maybe a compramise would be a good salution.

"He can come here, but if BJ starts to pick up any of his bad habbits Mick he will have to go. BJ is at that point right now where he looks up to everyone and picks up on everything they are doing."

Sapphire liked the comments so full of thought that Gage sometimes threw out. Even if they were random and to some they didn't understand Sapphire could never tire of what he had to say. The comment about her eyes was no different and it made her feel warm and fuzzy even if there was a little bit of redness coming to her cheeks.

Feeling Gage's hand on her skin Sapphire closed her eyes for moment. His hands were rough from the work outside he had been doing, but to Sapphire she likes them. Opening her eyes again she gently takes Gage's hand in her own looking down at it for a long moment. She had a million of her own thoughts that ran thought her mind even if she didnt voice them. Being here with Gage, she always had a nice time and just feeling the warmth of his hand in her own...it was nice. Looking up into Gage's eyes again Sapphire searches them again her own eyes gicing a little twinkle.

"The time lost is not important. Worry about what you have today, and tomorrow is what matters."

Lost time

2009-12-27T20:47:00.004-05:00

Sparky could feel the heat in his face worsening, even though he knew Faith was trying to make him feel less embarrassed. Her soft laugh and comment bring his eyes back up again, seeming almost surprised that no one would have compared her to an angel before.

Just wanting to get past the whole thing, he concentrates on Faith's question, quickly moving on, though his face remains red for several more minutes, especially when he realizes that she'd been looking at him for as long as he had been looking at her. "Um... yeah... yeah, I think I could handle something to eat. But..." He glances down, then up again. "I think I'd be better company if I can manage to get myself in the shower then into some clean clothes first. I mean... if you don't mind waiting a few minutes?"

"...he's not been very cooperative with the counseling sessions. Though Brenda says that it's strange because as far as the drugs go, he seems relieved. She thinks he's hiding something... I don't have a clue." Mick leans against the wall, looking out the window as he talks with Rosetta. It had been a long several days he'd gone without another phone call, so being able to talk with her again now, he was getting in as much as he could.

"At any rate, I told Adam I was thinking about having Dylan come stay with us. But... I didn't know if you'd be okay with that. Right now he's got a chip on his shoulder the size of Canada, and he's got a mouth on him I'd like to wash out with soap. Thing is, I don't feel right about sending him right back to where he got in trouble in the first place. I'd like to give him a chance, just... only if you think it would be alright."

Gage smiles a little. "A good heart, huh? I guess a lot of people would beg to differ." Searching Sapphire's eyes for a moment or two, he seems to be deep in thought, a thousand miles away.

"The lights from the tree... they make your eyes look blue." Though he'd completely changed the subject, it didn't seem to matter much. He often did, proving that his mind took many different avenues and that it didn't bother him to let his thoughts wander and deepen where they would.

"I... don't know why you stick with me," he comments softly. "But I am grateful... I don't say it enough. You've done so much... and you're my only friend. I didn't know what it was like to have a real friend before you..."

Reaching up, he brushes a strand of her hair back in place. Upon retreat though, his hand gently touches the side of Sapphire's face. "They never let me have friends," he whispers. "I don't know how to... make up for lost time."

Color

2009-12-27T19:01:00.003-05:00

Faith can't help the red color that came to her own face she her lips turned into a smile that was bigger than one she had, had in a while. It was easy to tell Sparky at first really didnt mean to flirt, but still what he had said still made her feel good to think someone would think she was pretty.

"An Angel huh? I do have to say I've never been compared to one of those before. But there is a first for everything. Thank you."

Shaking her head and giving another laugh Faith trys to let the color clear up from her face. She didnt want to make Sparky feel anymore uncomfortable, or embarrassed than he already was.

"Think you can stomach some food? There is a little left over soup here I can warm up for you."

Faith gave a soft smile to Sparky hoping it would help him get past his embarrassment. Finally turning her own eyes away from him relizing she had been mapping his face for the last five minutes.

Looking back at Gage she was happy there were friends. It wasnt often she was close to someone but Gage it just came so easy to get alone with him, and not feel strange around him. It could simply be because he accepted her the way she was.

"Yeah, sometimes its hard for me too. Perfection is something most people strive to obtain but till we come face to face with God we never will be."

Pulling away from Gage just a little Sapphire holds a big smile on her face. Her eyes twinkled showing what she said she really ment.

"I know you will make it Gage. Your a strong person with a good heart."

...from James

2009-12-27T17:19:00.004-05:00

Sparky is a little surprised, hearing that Faith had been here more than Angel had requested. Why, he wasn't sure. But the caring heart he'd started to see the first day now was very evident. This woman was full of a loving peace that Sparky could feel, just being near to her.

Turning his head a little to look up at her, his eyes roam her face as they often did. Then giving a little sigh, he manages to get himself into a sitting position, leaning back against the wall. It took more effort than planned, proving juts how weak he was. Coughing again, he finds a glass of water near and takes a long sip, letting it soothe his throat.

"Man... it's been a long time since I've been hit this bad," he comments. "Weird dreams... or hallucinations or something." Rubbing his forehead, a few foggy memories surface. He gives a little chuckle. "I could have sworn at some point there was an angel sitting right here." He gestures to the edge of the bed. "She was beautiful - her voice was like the sound of a summer rain. And she was quoting... no, reading..."

The memory becomes just a little clearer and Sparky recalls the soft features and the wisps of strawberry hair falling alongside her face. Suddenly, his eyes snap up to Faith, the rest of his phrase trailing off. "...from James..." A crimson shade creeps up his neck and into his face. The level of embarrassment was the same as when he'd made a fool out of himself several days ago when he'd been introduced to her. Only this time, he had no escape route.

Gunner lets out the breath he'd been holding and he grins. "Thanks, guys. I'll be in touch. Keep it under your hats, okay?"

Scott nods, and watches as Gunner backs away, then leaves the office. He opens the bottom desk drawer to pull out a new bag of jerky. "I have a feeling we're gonna need this." After tearing into it, he offers some to Dalton as was the frequent ritual. "First one to get past the first security doesn't have to pay for the next round of Mountain Dew."

By now, Gage was used to Sapphire's comfort, and he didn't resist the arm she put around his shoulder. Quite honestly, it felt good right about now.

Listening quietly, Gage tries to process everything that she was saying. Some of it was a little difficult, but if he pushed aside his frustration, he understood a little easier. Sapphire's observation about his behavior now versus when he was with the Agency was something he hadn't thought of. If he'd still been with the Agency, the man today might not still be alive.

Continuing to listen, he wonders about her reference to God. She talked about Him often, not just when referring to Christmas. The concept was intriguing, but usually Gage kept his questions to himself, spending time to ponder them and just take in whatever information Sapphire offered.

Sitting in the quiet for several minutes, Gage looks at the tree again, then slowly lets his head lean to the side until it was resting against Sapphire's. "So what you're telling me is that it could have been worse but I'll never be perfect."

He gives a wry chuckle before sighing deeply. "I guess you're right... I'm just feeling sorry for myself. It's just... hard some days."

Pausing, he purses his lips. "I just want to get through this community service so I can actually do something with myself..." He glances around the room. "Get something better than this."

Shifting a little, he turns his head so his eyes are just inches from Sapphire's. His voice goes quiet. "Do you really think I can? Succeed, I mean?"

Let the games begin!

2009-12-27T13:14:00.003-05:00

Another smile forms on Faith's face. Only knowing Sparky for a few Faith had already come to realize he had quite a seance of humor and not to take half of what he said seriously. It was nice to see Sparky had his sence of humor back now, and the smile behind his eyes.

"I didn't get anything but the satisfaction of knowing you were ok, and if you needed anything I could get it. To be honest I don't even think Angel new I was here half as long as I have been."

Faith stands and gives a stretch setting the book down on the small night stand. If Sparky felt strong enough maybe she could get him outside. Fresh air would be good for him and it would give a chanse for the stail are in the room to circulate. But she would wait first to see how he felt completely.

Bringing a hand to his chin as he thinks while listing to Gunner. Dalton listens to every word to a T. Taking in what information Gunner was giving them, processing it, and than forming a plan. Long before he was even asked or herd Scott would do it, Dalton had told himself yes he would do it. If someone was where they were not meant to be, and it was due to a parent, or some kind of family member there it had a reason. And that reason could very well be to shut them up. Gunner's friend was in danger and what they could be doing to that poor girl in a place like that it filled Dalton with more anger than sorrow.

Turning to his computer Dalton does a little typing bring up a few differnt pages. Looking to Scott and than to Gunner he inquires.

"You said Crescentview Mental Facility right?"

Going back to the computer and typing it in more sacrity windows poped up. They did have tight security in this place. Exicelent, it would feed Dalton's mind and challange him an Scott. How could he say no to that.

Giving a sidelong glance to Scott and than Gunner his mouth curls up into a smile.

"Let the games begin!"

Listing as Gage trys to explain what happened today Sapphire can't help but feel a little sorry for him. She new he hated feeling this way, but she also new that this was not started by him, but by the other person. Even thought it was wrong Sapphire couldn't blame him. Sge night of done the same thing if someone had pushed her.

Moving a little closer Sapphire gentile sets herself down on Gage's air mattress doing her best to move softly so she didnt launch Gage off. Scooting next to him she puts a gentil arm over his shoulders.

"There is a differnce between what you did for the Agency and what happened today. Though both are wrong this time it was self defense. This guy pushed, and punched you first. Its anyone's naturel defence to fight back to try and protect yourself and you stoped when the cop asked you to. Would you have done that a few months back when with the Agency?"

Sapphire new more than likely the answer was no. Gage had changed and come such a long way, the last thing she wanted was for him to think he was slipping. Thought todays events would set them back just a little Sapphire could only hope Gage would understand what she was saying.

"Though that dosnt give you the right to go around looking for the person to swing first, you in no way changing back to who you use to be."

Gently rubbing Gage's shoulder with her hand that was around him Sapphire leans her head against his for a moment just staying quiet. Thinking, about Gage's last comment and everyone being in charge of him. Picking her head up again to look at Gage she just searches his face for a long moment.

"You know your wrong in thinking everyone is in charge of you. The only one who in charge is you. You make the desitions in your life no one else does. The only real question you have to ask yourself is are the consequences worth a bad one. You pick up trash because its what you choose to do instead of going to jail. You can choose not to go, but than I might never see you again. You choose to let me in and help you. You didn't have to but than...where would you be right now?"

Sapphire's eyes still search Gage's. Thinking about her next comment.

"In the end though there is someone we need to answer to and that's God. I know when I stand before him in my final days I'd rather tell him about all the good things I did, and how I lived like he wanted than have to beg for my life when he tells me all the wrong he saw. Does that mean I am perfect?"

Sapphire gives a little laugh.

"..I only with I was. But its a comforting feeling to know he will forgive me when I mess up. And let me tell you, I've messed up a lot in my life too."

Pity party

2009-12-27T01:40:00.003-05:00

For the last few days? Sparky's eyebrows lift just a little. "Angel must be offering quite the perks for being her nurse," he muses. It was obvious that his humor had returned, and he couldn't believe that she would have sat all this time just because she wanted to. "I'll have to look into changing careers and working for her to see what I'd get for sitting and watching patients."

Gunner straightens up and folds his arms, knowing that he could trust these two men. "There's a young woman who was taken to Crescentview Mental Facility. Problem is, she doesn't belong there. She's not crazy or unstable in any way. It has something to do with her parents and money, but we're still trying to figure out those facts."

Scott interrupts. "Who's we?"

"Me and Dr. Jack Timble, her uncle."

"Jack Timble..." Scott furrows his brow. "I've heard that name."

"Could be. He used to help out the Texas gang years back." Gunner purses his lips. "He and I are trying to get Bree out of that place before they ruin her. They've got high security though, and they've got the both of us tagged. We couldn't get in there if we had permission from the president."

Scott tries to process the information. "Alright... so what do you want from us?"

"Information. I've tried to get all I could but I just can't get very deep. I know computers, but not that well. JT's been trying to go through legal channels - but we're both getting frustrated, and we've been talking about getting in by other means. Things like using security cards or using businesses that have clearance."

"Like electric companies or delivery trucks."

"Exactly. Thing is, we don't know what companies they use. We don't know what their security cards are. We don't know what their ID badges look like. We don't know the names of their staff who have high clearance."

Scott glances to Dalton again before thinking it through. "This is gonna take some hacking... and some time."

"I know. That's why I'm asking you two. If you can't or don't want to, then JT and I will have to find a different route. But you're the best. I'm hitting too many dead ends to keep on by myself. And time is running out. We have to get Bree out of there."

Scott takes a deep breath, letting it out slowly. "I know you don't usually ask for favors... so this must be pretty important. I'll do what I can..." He turns to Dalton. "What do you say?"

Gage hears the key turning in the lock, but he doesn't get up. Sapphire was the only other person with a key, so he trusted it was just her. And he was right. But even as she enters, he makes no move to stand. He just sits, looking at the tree or down at the floor. It was the first time in quite a while he'd felt anywhere close to miserable.

At Sapphire's question, he shrugs lamely. "Yeah, I'm fine... I will be."

Picking at a hole in his jeans, he keeps his head resting on the wall. He knew he couldn't get away with not explaining. Sapphire was his friend, and friends talked to each other. "I just had a run-in with some punk on the street today."

He sighs and shrugs again. "I was picking up trash. The cop I was with got a call - he trusted me to keep working so he went a ways away... had his back turned. Guy came up to me and started picking on me about what I was doing... making fun of me. At first I didn't care, ya know? I know why I have to do it, and I'm just lucky I'm not in jail."

Gage pauses, not liking the lingering anger in his gut. "I told him to leave me alone, and he kept at it. He was just looking for a fight. I don't know if he was on something or what. But he shoved me."

A thread snaps from the hole in his jeans his finger had been working on. "I just... I don't know... I got mad. I was trained to fight, ya know? There was a lot of stuff I didn't realize in the Agency, but one thing they made sure of was that if I ever got caught, I could get out of it. Combat and torture... that's what they wanted my specialty to be."

Stopping again, his eyes finally drift up to Sapphire's face. It was obvious that he didn't feel good about what had happened. "So... I shoved back. The guy's first strike I didn't see coming." He gestures to his lip. "After that though..." He sighs again. "...I did what I knew to do. That guy didn't stand a chance. I just... in my mind, I was the old me again, looking out for number one, and not caring about what happened to anybody else. He deserved to get knocked down so I did it. Next thing I knew, the cop was pulling me off the guy and ordering me to stand down. I came to my senses so I obeyed. The 0ther guy wasn't in great shape... bleeding everywhere, I think I broke his nose. Cop wanted to call for someone to take him to the ER to get cleaned up, but all the guy wanted to do was get out of there. I think he was scared of the police, to tell you the truth."

Looking back down again, Gage tries to sort through the disappointment in himself that was mixed with a bit of pride of putting someone else in his place. They were conflicting feelings.

"Thankfully, the cop had seen that I hadn't started it. And since the guy didn't want to go to the hospital, I got away with a stern warning was all."

Trying to find some comfort in the pretty, glowing tree, Gage looks at it. "I guess it felt good but I feel bad for feeling good." He cringes at how mixed up that sounded. "I don't like missing the control I used to have... I know it was wrong, the things I did, but... when they'd put me in a room with a victim, I was in charge. Even if I really didn't have the freedom I thought I did on the outside, in those moments, I was the one with the job to control the victim. Now... now everyone is in charge of me... all I get to do is say where to put decorations on a Christmas tree." He scoffs at himself. "And have pity parties... I'm sorry."

Ryder laughs and straightens to model his new "hat," prancing around to the front of the couch to flop down next to Thirteen. He was just as glad that so far, she didn't question where the money came from for all the things they could do and buy. Ryder kept very good track of everything that came in from Trent, and at any given time he could show where the money had been spent and how much was left.

"Mom and Pop's it is then. And you are looking at the worst bowler on the planet - but if you want to bowl, then bowl we shall."

Grinning, he takes the boxers off his head, tossing them on the pile of laundry. Leaning closer to Thirteen, he kisses her lips. "All I gotta do is get my shoes on and we're out of here. Worry about the laundry later."

Few days

2009-12-27T00:45:00.002-05:00

Opening her eyes to the sun light that was lightly coming in the window Faith gives a stretch. After so many days of sitting, sleeping, and just sitting in that chair Faith had become pretty still.

Hearing Sparky's voice makes Faith's heart jump and looking at him a smile forms on her face. His color was back, his fever was down and he was just looking so much better. Giving a small shake of her head Faith's eyes give a twinkle.

"I wouldn't really call this an early morning visit. For the last few days this is where I have eat, sleep and just spent my time. Everyone was really worryed about you, even me."

Cocking her head a little bit Faith's eyes search Sparky's for a long moment. It was easy to tell she really had cared and been worried.

Looking up as Gunner comes into the office Dalton was a bit suprised. It wasn't often Gunner found his way here, not to mention ask for there help.

"Hey, whats up?"

Listening intently to the little bit of information Gunner was providing them Dalton sat back in his chair his hands behind his head. Just thinking for a long moment he weighs the good, and the bad trying to decide what his own answer was.

"Well, we are off the clock. We can always hear what Gunner has to say, and see whats its all about. But if it becomes to risky, we would have to back out."

Dalton's curiosity had been peeked and now he wanted to know what Gunner had to say. If there were going to help someone who needed it, than that was they could do.

Sitting in the corner of her room, that was more like a cell Bree was curled her legs close to her chest as she rocked back and forth slightly.

Over the last few days that she had been there, it almost felt like she never left pluse ten. Shock therapy, meds to dop her up, sitting in on meetings, being confined to her room, to being cuffed down. It was a nightmare Bree couldn't escape. Her body and mind were on the verge of shutting down just so she didn't have to feal the pain anymore.

Leaning back still curled up a few tears roll from Bree's eye as she just stairs off into the dark corner across the room. She missed JT, she missed the kids at the hospital and most of all she missed Gunner. Bree couldnt help but wonder if they even new where she was.

Jingling the keys and humming a toon Sapphire unlocks the front apartment door. She never bothered to knock anymore now that she had a key and she always called before she came over today had been no different.

"Gage, I hope your ready. I think my stomach is going to eat itself if I wait any longer."

Scanning the room her eyes fall to the Christmas tree and than to Gage sitting on the bed.

"Hey there, sorry I am a little late, I...."

Sapphire's words trail off as she looks at Gage's face and see his split lip. A worry runs though her. Coming a little closer Sapphire bends down to take a better look at Gage.

"What happend Gage? Are you ok?"

Thirteen can't help the laugh that escapes her lips as Ryder puts the sock over her ear. Taking a pare of his boxed Thirteen turns a little to put them on his head like a hat. Letting out another laugh and shaking her head.

"Mmmm...how about Mom and Pop's? I really do like there soup there."

Thinking again for a moment while folding some more things and separating Katies, Ryders and her own Thirteen is quiet before turning to look at Ryder again. Now that they both were working seeing each other ALL the time didnt happen and Thirteen had learned how to cherish what little time they did have.

"How about bowling? I saw it on tv and it looked fun."

A little extra

2009-12-26T23:57:00.004-05:00

Jason chuckles and shakes his head. "I don't mind. Keep working in here and maybe we'll finally get to share an office yet."

Trooper had been brought in by Ryder, and he gives a groan as he stretches then wanders over to Katie, resting his head on the table beside her paperwork. Sniffing a little, he inches his head closer to her hand very nonchalantly before swiftly taking the pencil from her hand and looking at her as if daring her to take it from his slobbery mouth.

Jason grins. "Apparently, he wouldn't mind your company either."

Sparky lies there dumbly as Faith take the Bible from him. He really wasn't all that sure what he'd been trying to do anyway. It had seemed a good idea at the time... whatever it had been.

Shifting to lie on his side, he tucks one arm under his pillow, the other under the blanket, following orders though he felt oh, so hot. His eyes start to drift shut, but as Faith begins to read, his eyelids flutter and he watches her. The verses seemed to calm him and his breathing quiets as he listens to the words. His eyes kept trying to shut, but he would force them open again, just watching Faith as if were he to lose sight of her, the reading might stop.

Eventually, sleep would come, but it was a much deeper sleep, brought on by the raging fever. During the night, his temperature rises dangerously, requiring Angel's care as well as Faith's. Though opening his eyes and mumbling responses, he would not remember much about the next two days. While Jade was able to be up and about again, Sparky was far worse, enough so that the question of taking him to the hospital came up. Thankfully though, with patience and Angel's skill, he was stabilized, enough so that they continued his care in the bunkhouse. Sometime during the third night his fever finally broke.

The sun was just starting to rise, sending streams of dim light through the cracks in the blinds. Sparky stirs, feeling as though he'd been run over by a truck. From his back, he rolls onto his side, only to find himself in a mild but painful coughing fit. Once he regains control, he blinks, opening his eyes for the first time in a day. He didn't feel hot though and he knew immediately that he didn't have a fever.

Trying to regain a bit of his senses to figure out just where why and when he was, his eyes land on his bedside clock. The date was clearly shown and he's surprised to find out that several days have passed. All he knew was that he'd been sick. "Dang..." His voice is hoarse and raspy, and he looks around again, realizing that Faith was there as well. Why was she there, and how long had she been there? His eyes catch hers and he just studies her for several moments before speaking again. "And to what do I owe this early morning visit?"

Gunner hangs up his phone, giving a weary sigh. JT had still gotten nowhere. During the last several days, they had put together enough clues to figure out that the whole thing with Bree had to do with money that was supposed to go to her, but that's as far as they'd gotten. Every single avenue ended in a closed door. Even JT's lawyer friend couldn't get through as many layers as there were to find out the truth. And without the truth, there was no proof of foul play. And with no proof, there was no way to get Bree out of Crescentview.

It was getting late. Some people were heading home for the day. Gunner glances at the clock. He himself had done as much digging as he could, but JT had been right - Crescentview had tight security. Gunner couldn't get much farther than finding out how many people were employed there and that there were only a few short windows during a week that visitors were allowed - but even then, it was only to particular patients. He had respected JT's wishes to wait, be patient and do quiet research so as not to draw attention. But by now, Gunner could barely stand it any longer. He hadn't been able to dig up the information they wanted - he just wasn't good enough with that, with limited time and skill in that area.

Making up his mind, Gunner gets up and heads towards the hall. Making sure no one else was around, he slips into Scott and Dalton's office, glad they were still there. Leaning down on the desk, he stares both men in the eye. "I need your help."

Scott quirks an eyebrow and gives Dalton a sidelong glance before looking back at Gunner. "What's up?"

"I've got a friend in trouble... she's being held in a mental hospital and I need help getting her out."

Scott blinks. "Is this an Elite case? I haven't heard anything about-"

"No, it's not," Gunner states flatly. "It would probably be best if Reese didn't even know. If you two don't want that, then fine... but if you're willing to help quietly... I'll tell you what I need."

Scott purses his lips, thinking. He looks at Dalton again, then at the clock. It was just after five. "We're off the clock," he reasons. "What do you say?"

Gage's usually quiet walk is replaced by a forceful pace as he heads up to his apartment. He'd been trying so hard... he really had. Ever since he'd found out what kind of people the Agency really was, and ever since he'd realized the difference between right and wrong, he'd been trying to change. But sometimes... sometimes it was just too much.

Scowling as he unlocks his door, he shuts it behind him, using all the restraint he had not to slam it. Locking it again, he stands quietly for a moment, seething. Breaking out with a cry of frustration, he hurls his keys across his apartment, sending them smacking into the wall, creating a nick in the drywall.

Settling down a little, Gage wanders to his air mattress and sinks down, leaning back against the wall. Sapphire would be here any minute. They were going to go out and grab something for supper. And now he'd have to explain why he had a split lip. More than that, why he had blood on his shirt and it wasn't even his own blood. Maybe he'd just tell Sapphire that they would go eat tomorrow night instead.

Miserable, he glares at the Christmas tree in the corner. But looking at it, he remembered the fun he'd had with Sapphire... the stories she'd told him... the good feeling of creating something that looked nice. Eventually, he reaches down to the extension cord and plugs it in. The blue lights of the tree made the dark little apartment glow, the white star reflecting off the ceiling.

Gage sighs deeply and puts a hand to his tender lip. It hadn't been a bad enough hit to make another scar. But he'd been trained to fight... trained to torture. He might have had a sudden turn-around in his life after realizing who the Agency was, but he'd still been raised by them... taught by them. Everything he did and thought was influenced by their training. And today had been the first time he hadn't been able to resist it. Up until this point, he'd had no real opposition. He'd had no real reason to get upset or to fight. He'd been given a new chance and though living here wasn't the greatest, it was better than a sterile Agency room. But being provoked today, he just hadn't been strong enough to keep himself from doing what he did best. For the first time, his old self had come through, and he wasn't sure what to do with it.

Ryder flips through the mail, thumbing over some bills and junk mail. Seeing a handwritten envelope addressed to him, he pauses, throwing the rest of the stack on the table. The return address was Texas, and he recognized the writing.

Cocking his head, he peers into the living room to make sure Thirteen was still in there. They'd both had the day off and had been running errands all day. Now she was settled folding laundry at the couch and it was just as well that Ryder tore into the envelope while he was alone. There was a letter and a check, but it was more than expected this time.

Ryder,
Here's my check for the month. I wrote in a little extra this time for something special for Jasmine. Please make sure she has a nice Christmas.
-Trent

Ryder looks at the check and sighs a little. It was so obvious that Trent cared about his daughter, but he was too stubborn to tell her. Folding the check and slipping it into his back pocket, Ryder wandered into the living room, coming up behind the couch. Reaching down and over Thirteen's shoulder, he picks up a sock, draping it over her ear. "Hey, you."

He leans down closer so his face was next to hers. "We're gonna go have supper tonight wherever you want. Then afterward we're gonna do whatever you want to do. You name it."

Relaxed

2009-12-26T20:01:00.003-05:00

Just wrapping his arms around Jade to hold her Dan felt so comfortable just laying there with her. It was nice to have someone by his side, just holding her made me feel warm.

"Human ones are the best kind. I guess the warm arm wraps help too."

Continuing to just hold Jade, this was where Dan would say. To make sure she was ok, and if she needed anything sh wouldn't have to go far. He didnt mind taking care of Jade, in fact he rather liked it.

Giving Jade a kiss on the top of the head Dan leans his head against the the wall closing his eyes. He was comfortable and relaxed, Staying like this forever he could get use to.

Sitting back down in the chair as Sparky seems to be resting Faith picks up her own book ready to pick up where she left off. But as Sparky sits up again and drops his bible on the ground Faith can't help but jump bringing a hand to her heart. She hadn't expected that and it scared the living tar out of her.

Just watching him for a moment while he fumbled and tried to read the book upside down Faith had to do her best not to give a giggle. It was kind of cute that Sparky was trying to read upside down, but she new he was sick and really it was no laughing matter.

Getting up and setting her book down once again Faith goes over to the bed and sits down. Giving a soft smile she takes the book from Sparky.

"Here, let me read it for you. James right?"

Turning the book the right was and flipping the pages Faith finds James. Not sure where Sparky is in the chapter Faith just starts at the beginning. Her voice was soft as she read but there was emotion in it with what she was reading.

Letting out a tired sigh Katie makes her way to her own cubicle. After everything had happened she felt drained again.

I understand what you mean! There is always going to be something to deal with I think. It's just kind of a part of our life now, even if it does suck sometimes.

Not really feeling comfortable at her cubicle Katie gathers some of her waiting paper work together. Standing and heading across the floor to Jason's office. Giving a soft knock on the door she new she didn't need to but wanted to anyways. Hearing Jason answer she enters shutting the door softly behind her.

Taking one of Jason's overstuffed chairs Katie pulls it up to one of the tables by the wall and puts her paperwork down before pulling out her pen and starting to circle a few things. Looking up as if forgetting that Jason didnt know what she was doing Katie turns and gives him a grin.

"I didn't really feel like being alone. I hope you dont mind!"

Argument

2009-12-26T00:42:00.002-05:00

Even though she felt physically terrible, having Dan next to her still made her smile. Closing her eyes, she lets out a sigh, then leans her head over to rest it on his shoulder. Her comment made her giggle. "Liar. I look terrible."

Pulling the blanket up a bit more, she knows Dan gets to stay a while since he took his boots off. Wriggling down a little further so her head could lean against his chest, her one arm wraps around him as she snuggles in close. Her head was throbbing, but she couldn't be more comfortable than this. The beat of his heart and the gentle up and down of his breathing was like a lullaby, beckoning her back to sleep. "Living pillows are nice," she teases groggily.

Sparky's head hurts so bad he doesn't even want to open his eyes at all, but he pries them open anyway to see Faith and watch her as she comes near to pull the blankets up. His words were a bit slurred and someone might have trouble knowing if he was in a lucid moment or not. "You'd... make a good nurse for... for Angel," he mumbles, half into the mattress.

To the suggestion of food and drink, he shakes his head a little. He didn't feel like eating anything. All he felt like doing was sleeping, but even that was hard as achy and hot as he was. Coughing, he winces as it causes pain in his chest. Whatever this bug was, it was nasty and it had taken over very quickly. He knew that even once his fever broke, he'd be miserable for a while.

Still coughing, he manages to roll onto his side and reach for the glass of water on the bedside table. Then sinking back down again, he grimaces, trying not to complain, but it was hard. A chill comes over him and now he's glad for the blanket as he shivers, though still feeling hot as he sweats.

With the room going in circles again, everything looked a bit funny. The colors didn't seem right... and he was pretty sure that it wasn't lightning outside... or was it snow? Either way, things were very strange.

Seeming to fall back asleep again, his body rests until suddenly his eyes are open again. Out of nowhere, he reaches for the table once more, but this time, he tugs at his leather Bible. It falls to the floor with a thud and he looks over the edge of his bed, reaching down to flip the pages. He didn't realize that it was upside down, and was having quite the time trying to find what he was looking for. "I was in James," he mumbles, squinting at the blurry, upside down type. "But I suddenly seem..." He coughs, interrupting himself. "...to not be able to read."

Rick shakes his head slowly. "You're right, Katie... they didn't brand you." He takes Jason's hand, flipping it palm-side up to reveal the burn pattern that was becoming a permanent scar. "I believe that on a normal daily basis, the flow between you two doesn't have a pattern or come from one source - if it did, it would be easier for outside interference. However... Jason, I think that when you purposely force out your emotions, that it comes in that pattern every time. I think it did from the beginning, we just couldn't tell."

Jason furrows his brow. "So when Katie and I held hands... and there was so much force... it actually burned my hand, and in turn, burned hers too."

"Precisely." He looks back to the computer. "Dalton, back it up to the beginning, would you?" Once the footage was in play again, Rick points to where Jason had been standing. "Look." On the screen, Jason's hand twitches right before the glass explodes.

Jason quirks an eyebrow. "I don't remember doing that."

"I think you do it every time," Rick concludes. "I think that if we would have caught every instance on tape, we'd see that each time, you move your palm towards the target. It's so fast and slight though, that you don't even realize that you're doing it. And... I think Katie does the same thing when she draws emotions. It's just not obvious."

"What if it was? What if I were to purposely aim at an object?"

"I'd say we would need more than safety glasses." Rick purses his lips. "If you two want to experiment, be my guest. But take my advice and do it out in some open field somewhere."

The whole time, Scott has been looking at the screen too, his interest piqued. The whole thing was amazing, and he looks up out of the corner of his eye at Katie for a moment. This thing never ended with her and Jason. It was constantly evolving and they were constantly learning new things about it. Would there ever be an end? "At least... it wasn't done on purpose then," he reasons.

"That's a good thing," Rick agrees. "We know that all the Agency did was amplify the emotional state with whatever formula they have. However.... whether they realize it or not, you have been branded. Whenever you go undercover or need to conceal your identity, you will have to rely on bandages or gloves, and a good cover story."

Jason nods, slowly letting out a deep breath. "Alright... now what?"

Rick shrugs. "You two are free to go. I want you back in the infirmary tomorrow for checkups, but... otherwise, just take it easy for a few days. If you have any more ideas or epiphanies, come and see me."

Once they all split up again, Jason wanders to his office where he hadn't been in almost two weeks. Easing down in his chair, he puts his head in his hands.

I don't want to complain... and I don't want to take it away but... it sure would be nice to not have to deal with this for once.

"Where are we going?"

"My place."

"But you said you know where she is."

"I said I think I do." JT keeps his eyes on the road, his jaw muscles tightening with every second as the tension runs high.

"Then why aren't we going there?!" Gunner didn't understand and his frustration was growing.

"Because we can't just barge in there," JT answers firmly. "I'm going to go home and call Crescentview and see if Bree was checked in there. If she was, we have a place to start."

"Why can't I call TJY? We'll have those guys in ten seconds flat."

"Just cool it, Gunner!" JT waves a hand at him. "Let me think!"

Gunner falls silent, still rubbing the back of his sore head.
Where are you, Bree? Don't let them win. God, why did this have to happen?

Twenty minutes later, Gunner paces the kitchen like a caged tiger while JT was on the phone. Walking back and forth and back and forth, he holds an icepack to the back of his head, half listening to the one-sided conversation JT was having on the phone at the table.

"All I want to know is if Bree Conner was checked in today." JT's voice was strained as he tries to stay calm. "I know you can't give me any information about patient's conditions - I'm a doctor and I happen to know all about privacy laws. But what I do not know is if Bree Conner was brought in today. Would you please check for me?"

His fist clenches as he keeps from losing his temper. "My name is Doctor Jack Timble. Yes. Thank you." Being put on hold, he sighs and runs a hand through his hair. Part of him wanted to know that Bree was there so they would know what they were dealing with, and part of him wanted to find out that she was not. A voice comes back on the line and he pays attention again. "Yes, I'm still here. What?" He blinks in amazement. "You've got to be kidding me. No, no, wait... I just..... don't...." Hearing the click on the end of the line, he growls and slams the phone down. "Gah!"

Gunner quickly joins him. "What happened? Is she there?"

"They wouldn't tell me." JT looks up at him, his eyes narrowed with anger. "Apparently they have my name on file and are not to hand out any information to me whatsoever."

"What?"

"That's our answer though." JT shakes his head. "If they've got me pegged, there's only one reason."

"Because they've got Bree."

"Bingo."

"Now what?"

"We make some more calls."

"Oh, come on!" Gunner shoves a chair in anger. "Quit making calls and lets go get her!"

"We can't do that, Gunner!" JT stands up, slamming his palm on the table. "This is going to take legal strategy, not storming the gates!"

"They used brute force!" Gunner raises his voice in anger. "They played it dirty and you know it. I say we go in and play dirty right back at them!"

"And do what?! Wind up in jail?"

"I'm Elite, dang it!" Gunner holds up his badge. "I can get in where you can't!"

"They won't let you in!"

"I'll get a warrant!"

"They won't let you! Don't you hear me?!" JT shouts his question, trying to get through to him. "Bree's father has control everywhere! No matter the price, they've got it. I don't know why this is happening again, but I can guarantee that we can't just waltz in there and take her back out again. It just doesn't work that way!"

"Then we make it work that way!" Gunner's eyes blaze. "I can't just sit here while you make your phonecalls, knowing that she's in that place getting tortured! It isn't right!"

"I know it isn't right!" JT is one step from giving Gunner a shove, but he withholds physical force despite his anger. "She's my niece, Gunner! You think I don't care?! I want to barge in there now as much as you do, but I know good and well that it just isn't going to work! Crescentview isn't like Northside! They got guards there... armed guards. If they've got me pegged, I won't even be able to get past the first gate. You may be able to get into the front building, but I'd bet my life savings that they'll know you too and you'll leave there with no more information than when you came. Put up a fight and they'll have you behind bars so fast your head will swim, whether you're Elite or not." He pauses, panting from his spiel. "We have to go through quiet legal channels with this one. It's the only way we're going to win."

"But..." Gunner's shoulder's drop, the reality of JT's words starting to sink in. "That could take days."

"It could take weeks," JT confirms grimly. "But if we make one wrong step, we could lose this before it even starts. Who we are matters nothing to people like this. My brother-in-law has connections everywhere... and I mean everywhere. We've got to watch our step and play this smart."

Gunner sinks down into a chair and puts his head in his hands, his temper calming down. "What do we do?"

"I'm calling an old lawyer friend of mine. I have a few other contacts that may be able to help me figure out why this happened. We have to understand what the reason is here. I'm sure it has something to do with money, but I don't know what. Once we figure that out, we'll have something to go on."

"And me?"

"Get the lowdown on Crescentview. Figure out everything from who's not allowed to have contact with Bree, to when they have the electric meter checked. Anything and everything."

"That's gonna take some time."

"I know. But you got the resources."

"Reese would have a fit if he knew I was working on something like that."

JT quirks an eyebrow. "Who said he needs to know?"

How Long?

2009-12-24T21:53:00.014-05:00

Just sitting with Jade for most of the day Dan didn't mind. He had left once or twice but only for a short while to get his work done, and than come back. He liked keeping an eyes on Jade and be there if she needed anything.

Placing a fresh cloth on her neck he runs a hand down the side of her face, and along her jaw bone. Just cradling her face for a long moment as he looked into her eyes. Even as sick as she was they held so much life and energy in them.

"Even in your worst, your beautiful."

Letting his hand fall from her face Dan leans back a little to rest his back against the same wall Jade was leaning against. Kicking off his work boots so he too could bring his feet up on the bed. Staying silent for a moment before letting out a small chuckle.

"I miss having your help, but its ok. You get better and than you can again."

Giving a smile to Sparky Faith had hardly left his side. Even with Annie's prompting earlier to at least get out and some fresh air. Faith didnt know why she didnt want to leave Sparky's side, and the only time she did was when Angel was around but it just felt right to be here and help him.

Looking over at Sparky from the chair that was buy the bed Faith puts her book down for a moment. Giving a smile she new the risk she ran but there she was anyways.

"I guess that's a risk I am willing to take."

Standing Faith takes the blankets Sparky had kicked off and pulling them up over him once again. Tucking them snug around him.

"Sparky, I know your hot but you have to keep the blankets on ok? It will help break your fever that's what Angel said. There is more Ginger Ale and Crackers on the night stand here, if you think your stomach can handle it ok."

Stopping, playing, slowing down, slower, speeding up, still frame. It was easy for Dalton to do with Rick's direction on what he wanted done. Now starring at the image thats really all he can do. What he was seeing seemed unreal, even knowing about Jason and Katie's powers. They came out in a pattern?

Looking at the screen Katie's jaw almost felt like it wanted to drop just a little. It was the same pattern as on there hands. It was creepy to say the least.

Wow...

Katie wasn't sure what else to say. It was right there, in there faces and yet it seemed so unreal. When Jason pushed out his emotion there was actually something there. Kaite felt like something else needed to be said, but she didnt know what. Only one thing could pop into her mind.

"Well, I guess they didn't brand us."

As pills were trying to be administered Bree fought it. She didnt want to take them, not again. Today was the first shock treatment and she had made it through ok as she tried to take her mind to a better place. But how long could she with stand it?

Continuing to refuse the drug Bree kicked and screamed. She no it did no use, but it was a panic thing that was hard to control. Even if she was calm, she new that still everything they were doing would continue to happen.

Finally the Dr's give up the fight of forcing her to take the pills. Bringing a syringe instead to inject her. Feeling the cool liquid run through her vein's Bree does her best to keep her one grasp of hope locked in her mind. Seeing Gunner's face she tried to let her body fall into the place he was as her eyes already started to grow tired.

Worry for a nurse

2009-12-23T23:16:00.002-05:00

Jade mumbles something close to an "uh-huh," not minding a bit that Dan was telling her to rest more. She just felt so tired. Eventually she sleeps again, waking to another cold cloth, then later around lunch time to a cup of hot tea.

Managing to pull herself up so she can sit in bed, Jade pulls the covers up close, still feeling very hot. Her temperature was down just as little, and Angel had been in to check on her once, but it was obvious now that she'd be down for a day or two. She felt a little more alert now though - enough to realize that she must look a mess.

Sipping the hot tea that Dan had made, she gives him a rueful grin. "Well..." Her voice comes out hoarse and scratchy. "I guess you've seen me at my worst now."

She closes her eyes and leans her head back against the wall. "I miss being in the barn with you."

While it was apparent that Jade would be fine after a few days rest, on the other side of the ranch, Sparky had been attacked much more severely. Instead of his fever going down, it only rose, bringing him in and out of hallucinations and bizarre dreams.

Mid-afternoon, he's already had several visits from Angel, continuing to check on him. During the morning, he'd managed to get down half a cup of tea that Faith had made, but after that, he'd been too exhausted for more. He couldn't remember a time he'd felt this sick - it had been years.

Writhing in bed, Sparky kicks off his blankets for the fifth time, rolling onto his stomach, one arm hanging off the bed as his body tries to cool down. His breathing was shallow and a cough was starting - the first sign of the trouble to come. He desperately wanted to get up... to get some fresh air and get out of bed. But pushing himself up, he just flops back down again, too shaky to try anything. He shivers, even though he feels hot as sweat soaks his hair.

Managing to open his eyes just a little, he sees Faith still with him. It barely registers that she'd been there, in and out all day watching over him. "You're... gonna.... gonna catch it too," he mumbles.

Scott grins at Dalton's teasing, and simply returns to his own work, only to look over a few minutes later to see what everyone else was looking at.

Rick stares over Dalton's shoulder at the footage and he points. "There... zoom into the glass... a little more... little more... right there." He stops, still watching. "Now slow it down another notch... a bit more...." He watches the frames go slowly by until he points again. "Pause it. Right there."

As the video stops, all viewers stare at the scene. Jason blinks, shocked by what he saw. Rick was not surprised. Scott cocks his head, intrigued.

Jason holds up his hand and looks at the mark on his palm, then looks back to the screen.

Holy cow...

The paused frame shows the glass just as it's beginning to burst. But it's not shattering from a central location as might be expected. Happening in real time, one's eyes could only see it burst and would assume that it was like a bomb exploding - that it would shatter from a central location. But this footage clearly showed the point of impact. The glass had begun to shatter in the exact spiral pattern as was on Jason and Katie's palms. The point of origin for the explosion was not a single point, but a pattern that shattered the object so quickly it deceived the eye.

The sound of the brush against the horse's coat is soothing, along with the soft feeling under Mick's fingertips. He missed his own barn, but at least helping the McClains in theirs kept him busy and gave him something worthwhile to do.

The mare turns her head to look back at Mick, almost as if asking what was on his mind. He grins as little and pats her neck. "I always could communicate with horses better than people," he muses aloud.

Continuing to groom the horse, work goes on around him. There were ranch hands, there were clients and there were families of clients. Really, it wasn't all that busy, but from this spot in the barn, one had a pretty good idea of what all was going on during the day. At one particularly quiet moment, Mick spotted Dylan not far away, wandering aimlessly into the barn. His hands were stuffed in his pockets and his feet scuffed the ground as he walked. His shoulders were dropped and his head was low - it was not the picture of someone who was happy to be there, let alone happy with life in general.

Mick waits until his son is closer before speaking. After their one encounter while Dylan was going through withdrawal, they had not had any interaction. He keeps his eyes on the horse as he continues to brush her. "I could use a hand if you want to grab a brush," he mentions.

Dylan looks up and scoffs. "I hate horses."

That shouldn't have hurt, but it did just as bit. Mick knew Dylan didn't have to be interested in everything he was, but horses had always been his life. To know his son hated the animals just seemed to put a wider distance between them. "Are you scared of them?"

"I'm not scared of nothin'."

"Everybody's scared of something."

"Yeah?" Dylan looks at Mick with defiance. "What are you scared of?"

Mick pauses his work and finally glances in Dylan's direction. "Losing my family."

Dylan's eyes narrow. "Then I guess maybe you shoulda stuck around, huh?"

Mick wants to fire back with a retort, but he holds his tongue. Today was not a good day for his cravings, but he manages to keep his temper. He had to. "Just because something is my own fault doesn't mean I can't be scared of it anyway."

Dylan smirks a little and leans back against the wall, falling silent. He didn't want to be here. He hated it here. He wanted to go home. At the very least, he wanted to stay in his room here, but Adam had brought him outside for "fresh air." In a horse barn? He had to be kidding.

Mick watches his son out of the corner of his eye. He could see the young man's mind working and dwelling on the negative, and it pained him to see it. Why couldn't he get through to him? Why couldn't he help fix this? "Dylan..." He knew better than to ask, but for some reason, he wanted to. "...you keep talking about me not sticking around. Now I know we've had several encounters over the last year and I've tried getting to know you... but what do you really know about when I left? What have you been told?"

Dylan shifts his weight uncomfortably. He'd been very young, but he still remembered the day Daddy said goodbye. He hadn't understood it then, but he'd been told plenty later on. Why Mick was asking him now, he didn't know, but he really didn't care. At least it was passing the time. "You cheated on Mom and left us," he states flatly.

The pain was enormous, and Mick pauses his brushing, leaning on the mare's back. He kept his eyes busy with cleaning out the brush in his hand. "Did you know that I never cheated? That it was all a trick to get your mother to divorce me?"

"I don't care. From my perspective, the only proof is the pictures. And you did leave. That's a fact. And you never came around again. That's another fact."

"I left because your mother forced me out. As far as visiting, your mother also made sure that I had no rights to see you kids."

"After you blew up in court."

Mick's shoulders drop. "You know all the negatives, don't you?"

Dylan's expression grows just a little sly. "Yep. Stinks, doesn't it?"

Mick turns to face him, exasperation in his eyes. "Did you ever think that there was some positive? Did you ever think that everything you've been told may not all be true? That maybe I did love my children? That maybe I spent years running from my old life just to try and get the pain to stop? In the end, the choice is yours on what to believe. But let me tell you something... I have never stopped loving my family, and that includes you. Had I been allowed, I would have spent every free moment with you and Jade. If I have one regret, it's not letting myself be framed... it's not choosing to move on. It's the fact that I gave up. I was afraid of being arrested if I tried to see you, and I gave up."

Moisture appears in his eyes. "And you know what? One of my greatest blessings is the opportunity to be with you and Jade now. You're both finally old enough that I don't have to be afraid of speaking with you... and your mother allows it, even if it's not her preference."

"Well, I hate it," Dylan retorts.

"Tough!" Mick throws up his hands, startling the mare. "It doesn't matter if you hate my guts. I love you, and I'm not going to pretend I don't." He knew that most of the stories and negativity were being fed to Dylan through Jill's mother and not Jill herself, but no matter, it was obvious that it had all been ingrained into Dylan's head for so long that nothing was getting through to him. "The fact is, Dylan, that there is truth and lies in this world. It doesn't matter what you believe - those truths will always exist. You can stare at a white piece of paper and believe with all your heart that it's purple, but in the end, the truth is that it's white. People will tell you that you can believe whatever you want in life, and what you believe makes it true for you. But it just doesn't work that way. People have created that myth so that they won't feel guilty about believing things that aren't true, or so they have an excuse to choose other religions over God. They don't want to feel the pain of knowing the truth, so they avoid it and say it doesn't exist until they actually believe it. But it doesn't matter. Because truth is truth no matter what. And the truth here, Dylan, is that I did not cheat on your mother. It was not my choice to leave my family. And I love you and Jade."

Dylan could feel the desire to believe rising up within him. He wanted to believe he was loved. He wanted to believe that all these years he hadn't really been tossed aside. But there was so much anger built up in him, that to break it would take more than a single conversation. Spinning on his heel, he walks out.

Mick heaves a sigh and shakes his head wearily. He never should have started that conversation.

"You did a good job."

Mick whirls around to see Adam. "How long have you been there?"

"Long enough." Adam comes and scratches the mare's neck. "I think I saw a crack form in Dylan. You did a good job at staying calm but giving him what he needs to know."

"I sure didn't see a crack," Mick counters. "All I see is someone who will never believe me and who will always hate me."

"God parted the Red Sea, Mick... you don't think he can soften the heart of one teenager?"

Mick can't help a dry laugh. "Yeah... you got me there."

Adam smiles. "It'll work out. You'll see. It's just going to take time."

"How long will he be here?"

"Oh..." Adam thinks. "Another week or so. Brenda's been keeping a close eye on him, and he's really doing quite well away from the drugs. He's not as nervous and he's not complaining as much about wanting a fix. Physically, his body is beginning to settle down and adjust to not having the drugs."

"His attitude still stinks."

"It does. But we can't keep someone here just because they have a bad attitude. You know that. Once we believe that he's not a risk to himself or to going back to drugs, we have to release him."

"But he still might go back to the drugs."

"He might. You went back to drinking." Adam eyes Mick. "But if we went around thinking that about everybody, we'd have one full ranch here by now. We've got to let Dylan go when he completes the program."

Mick sighs again. "What if he didn't go home?"

Adam shrugs. "It would be best if he could find himself before going home - he wouldn't he as great of a risk then. What do you have in mind?"

"My ranch." Mick cringes a little. "I know he doesn't want anything to do with me but... there are good people there... my brothers and Rosetta, and Dylan's cousins... it's a good atmosphere if he'd just stay."

"Well, he's only sixteen. You might be able to force it if your ex-wife would go along with it."

"That might be harder than convincing Dylan himself."

"Maybe. But it might be worth a try. Do you think Rosetta would go along with it?"

Mick nods. "I think she'd be okay, but I don't want to talk to Jill about it until I've talked to Rosetta. If she doesn't want Dylan around BJ the way his is or something, then I'm not going to push it."

Taking Care

2009-12-23T20:13:00.003-05:00

Giving a smile Faith nods just a little at Sparky's comment about riding. Though she was disapointed they couldn't today she was not upset at all. Sparky was sick and she would never ask him to do anything till he was better.

"It's ok. There will be more time for riding. Right now your health is more important."

Standing and taking the already warm cloth from Sparky's head Faith disappears into the bathroom once again cooling it down. Than returning to the bed side to place it on his head again.

"The best way to stop a spinning room is to close your eyes. Sleep is your best friend right now. Angel will be in soon to give you something and I will look into making you some tea with honey. Just sleep now, I will stay till Angel gets here and than move out of the way."

Continuing to sit on the bed Faith continues to change the cloth making sure to keep it cool and the covers over Sparky. Humming a little now and than, Faith didn't mind looking over him. It was nice being the one to take care of someone for a change and not the other way around.

Seeing Jade relax made Dan feel good. The last thing her body needed right now was her to be all tense causing more strain.

Feeling her hand slip into his Dan gives a smile. Letting his thumb run over her hand in a comfort motion Dan does what he can to help Jade stay comfortable.

"You dont need to get up and do chores right now. You need to rest and get better. Just rest."

Dan would stay with Jade as long as he could, in a little while after she rested she would warm up some tea in the small mic for her that was in her room. Dan wanted to make sure she would be ok before he left. If she got any worse he would find Angel.

Sitting on the edge of her own bed Katie wiggled her fingers a little trying to get the blood flow from laying in bed back. It felt so sore from just laying around, she was happy to be able to at least move from the bed now.

Trust me I understand. I body hurts all over.

Finally standing as she slips her shoes on Katie just looks at Rick a grin on her face. She thought it was kind of funny that he didnt even want to bother arguing with her.

Heading downstairs with Jason Katie stands next to him watching as Rick moves away from Jason but Katie stays close not scared of what would happen.

We all go crazy sometimes huh?

Continuing to stand with Jason while he does his thing Katie braces herself for the burst of emotion. Knowing it was coming she was able to prepare even if it still hurt a little. Once finished Katie just gives him a sidelong glance before heading back with Rick and him to upstairs.

Looking up from his desk as Katie, Rick, and Jason come in Dalton gives a little nod before looking down at what he was working on. Only to give a playful elbow and a sidelong grin to Scott.

"I think you like using that excuse so u don't have to work."

Giving a not so rare these days chuckle Dalton shakes his head.

"Ok watch here."

Finding the information it takes a few moments for Dalton to bring it up. Once playing he slows it down trying to get it just the right speed. Finally after a few moments Dalton movies his chair back just a little bit.

"I put it on a continue stream so we wont have to keep clicking play. If you need it faster or slower or paused I can do that to just let me know."

Family emergency

2009-12-23T12:34:00.002-05:00

Hearing a female voice, Sparky pries open his eyes just a little bit, enough to make out a figure in the doorway. He was so tired, he didn't bother responding, and wasn't surprised when he felt the bed move.

Thinking it would be Angel since Jim had said he would go get her, Sparky squints a little, making out the face that was looking down at him. The red hair immediately told him this was not Angel, and for a moment, he thought it was Annie. But as the soft features come into focus, Sparky realizes that it was Faith. He usually wouldn't he thrilled with someone else being in his bunk, let alone seeing him like this, but for some reason, it wasn't displeasure he felt, but rather a little feeling of peace. It confused him, but he was too sick to try and figure it out. "Faith... hi."

He lets his eyes fall shut again, then feels her hand on his forehead. Her skin was still cool from the outdoors and he could feel his body relax under her touch. He's almost disappointed when she gets up.

Hearing the request to roll over, Sparky cringes a little. Every single joint ached and his head pounded, the fever raging. Too out of it to even try arguing, he does as he's told, then feels the cold cloth. "That feels good," he whispers hoarsely, his eyes still closed. A little grin turns up the corner of his mouth. "Guess that ride... will have to wait, eh?"

Faith's question if she can do anything else cracks open his eyes again. He stares up into her face, wondering why she was even the one here helping him. But maybe he'd missed something. He did kind of feel like he was in a dream anyway. For all he knew, this really was a dream. Come to think of it, he didn't remember having purple curtains, let alone a ceiling that swirled in a counter-clockwise motion.

"You can stop the ceiling from spinning," he mumbles, lifting a finger to point at it. "I... don't think it's supposed... to do that." His eyes flutter shut then open again, moving to the wall. "Crap... the calendar is wrong."

In reality, there were no curtains, just his blinds, the ceiling was quite still, and there was no calendar on the wall at all. It was the fever talking as Sparky drifted in between what was real and what was a hallucination.

Jade groans as she feels the bed move, and finally hears Dan's voice. She mumbles something into her pillow, but it comes out sounding like gibberish. Licking her lips, she tries to roll onto her side, but her body ached too much.

"Dan?" She feels the cold cloth on the back of her neck and tenses a little at the shock, but then relaxes as the coolness soothes the heat that was running through her. Dan's hand gently rubbing her back helps her relax even more and she sighs deeply. "Mmm.... thank you."

Moving a hand from under the blanket, she reaches back to find his free hand and curls her fingers around it. "I just... gotta get up... help with chores.... just a few more minutes."

By the time Gunner reaches the hospital, his lungs feel like they're on fire and his sides ache. Stumbling into the hospital, he looks around wildly, trying to get his bearings.

"Sir?" A nurse approaches. "Sir, can I help you?"

"JT." Gunner whirls around, breathing heavily. "I mean, Jack... Jack Timble. The doctor. I need to see him now."

"I'm sorry, sir, but you will have to wait. Can I have your name please?"

Gunner's eyes narrow, his voice growing more firm. "I need to see Jack Timble now. There is no waiting."

The nurse backs up a step, her face paling a little. "I'm sorry. But I'll have to call the authorities if you don't calm down."

"Look, lady." Gunner closes the gab between them and pulls the chain around his neck to bring out his badge. "I am the authorities. Get me Dr. Timble now, or I'll find him myself."

Drawing in a shaky breath, the nurse blinks then nods, going to the intercom and paging JT. Gunner paces in front of the desk, bending to catch his breath, then pacing again. His legs hurt from running so hard and the back of his head was killing him from where he'd been hit twice.

It was ten minutes before JT finally comes, able to take a break. One look at Gunner and his pulse quickens. "Gunner... what's wrong?"

"They took her." Desperation shows in Gunner's eyes. "They took Bree."

"Whoa, what? Who? What happened?"

"We were..." Gunner is still catching his breath. "...at the diner."

"Slow down." Fear grips JT, but he forces Gunner to slow anyway. "You were at the diner?"

"Yeah... we were having fun and these guys came in. Two doctors, a cop and that guy, what's his name, Roger."

JT's eyes widen and his face loses color. His voice comes a little more stern. "What do you mean, Roger? What did they do?"

"They grabbed Bree. She tried to fight them off but they sedated her. I stepped in and I got conked over the head... twice. They wound up dumping me in an alley. When I woke up, I came straight here." Gunner's eyes are wild with a fear he didn't usually feel. "We have to find her... we have to get her back."

"I know, I know just stay calm." JT's mind races. "Do you know where they were taking her?"

"No."

"I bet it's Crescentview. We have to go... now." JT points to the nurse. "Family emergency, Mary. I'm off."

Her eyes go wide. "But you-"

"Unavailable. Have Dr. Fuller take over the Chambers case for me." JT calls over his shoulder as he follows Gunner to the door. "And tell her to make sure surgery gets scheduled for Mrs. Palmer!"

"I'm fine."

"Just give it another day or two."

"I feel fine!" Jason throws up his arms and stands from the bed. He'd already been up and dressed himself. It seemed the long sleep had done more for recovery than anything else.
If he tries to keep in bed one more day, I'm gonna scream.
"Now come on. What is it you wanted me to do?"

Rick heaves a frustrated sigh and turns from his work. "Alright. I give up. But lets go somewhere safer."

"Safer?"

"Well I don't want you blowing things up in here!" Rick rolls his eyes, then glances to Katie. "No, I'm not going to even try to keep you here. It's not worth it. So come along." He waves to Misty across the infirmary. "We'll be right back."

Leading the way down the hall, Rick heads downstairs and to the rec room. Setting up a stool, then finding a drinking glass to set on it, he then glances up to the corner camera and goes to the intercom. "Dalton... would you please make sure that camera 5b is on? I'm gonna need that footage in a few minutes."

Jason eyes the setup skeptically.
I have no idea what he's doing, but I think he's lost it.

"Okay." Rick moves them back clear to the other side of the room and hands them safety glasses from the shooting area, insisting they put them on. "Alright, now go for it."

"What?"

"Just break the glass."

Jason quirks an eyebrow but shrugs. Focusing on the glass, he musters up negative emotions within him.
Incoming.
In a sudden burst of energy, the glass shatters, sending sharp pieces in all directions.

Rick takes off his glasses and nods. "That's it."

"That's it?" Jason sighs. "Come on... tell me what you're doing."

"I won't know until I look at the footage. Follow me."

Jason tosses the glasses back on the rack and follows behind Rick, taking Katie's hand as they go.
Really... I think he really has lost it.

Rick heads back upstairs and straight down the hall to Dalton and Scott's office. "Alright, you two, need some video assistance."

Scott looks up, chewing on a piece of jerky. "Whatcha need?"

"Dalton just captured footage from the rec room. I need to view it in slow motion.... really slow motion."

"Gather 'round." Scott motions the three to squeeze behind the desks with him and Dalton. He glances to Dalton's screen and takes a swig of Mountain Dew. "You da pro. Show 'em what ya got. I'm still dealing with my insubordinate program."

Shock

2009-12-22T23:30:00.002-05:00

Wondering around and waiting Faith didn't feel awkward looking at everything and getting her bearings but she couldn't help feel maybe she got her time or places wrong on meeting Sparky. Seeing Jim, and getting a bit of direction from him was nice, and helped Faith just a little in finding her way around.

Once inside and finding Annie Faith sits next to her as a conversation about her Dr. apts are talked about and working out car for Faith to use so she could come and go when she pleased having her own freedom here.

Looking up at Jim as he makes his way over Angel's smile fades a little by the look on Jim's face.

"Jim...whats wrong?"

Hearing Sparky was sick Angel is up from the table with minutes. It could be a simple cold but it was always better to be safe than sorry.

Over hearing Jim and Angel Faith can't help but be a little worryed about her friend. Wondering if she could do anything herself she stands and heads out the door and to the bunk house. It would be a little bit before Angel got there seeing as she had to go to her office first. Faith could go in check on Sparky and than leave not being in anyone way.

Crossing the grass and getting to Sparky's bunk Faith knocks a little before cracking open the door.

"Sparky...its me Faith."

Her words come out soft knowing his head might be hurting. Entering farther in Faith goes over to the bed and sits down on the edge for a moment feeling his for head.

"Hey, sorry to bother you I was just worried. I didn't know if there was anything I could do. Angel is on her way."

Feeling he had a fever Faith stands just wanting bring a little comfort to Sparky while he waited for Angel. Pulling the blankets to up under his chin, Faith disapears into the bathroom. A few moments later she comes back out with a wet washcloth.

"Here, this will help lay on your back for me."

Waiting for Sparky to roll on his back Faith sits on the bed again and leans over him a little placing the cool on his for head.

"There, that should help you so you dont feel to warm. Can I do anything else Spark?"

Not seeing Jade in the barn that morning had been add seeing as she hadnt missed a morning of helping him since she came to the ranch. Maybe just today she was busy and he would see her at breakfest. But now scanning the dinning hall and still not seeing her Dan was a bit worryed.

Exiting and heading down the steps Dan makes his way to Jade's bunk and gives a light tap on the door. Not getting an answer Dan checks the door and seeing it open he cracks it just a little looking into the room.

"Jade, Jade its just me. I was worried about you."

Seeing the body laying in the bed but getting no answer Dan's worry increases even more. Entering all the way he slowly makes his way to the bed. Seeing Jade was breathing was a re leaf but seeing the sweat and feeling her forehead she was sick and burning up.

Heading into the tiny bathroom Dan wets a washcloth and brings it back out. Wrapping the coolness around the back of Jade's neck was easy since she was sleeping on her stomach. Taking the covers and bringing them up her Dan sits on the edge of the bed.

"Need to keep these on you to break your fever ok. "

Just sitting on the bed Dan rubs Jade's back not sure if she was awake or not but trying to bring her the comfort he can.

Giving a nod and a smile to her brother Ryan throws her arms around him.

"Ok I owe you, and we are into all that manly stuff just...something different I guess."

Shaking her head and just slapping her brother's arm for the fun of it Ryan turns to head into the hallway with the phone.

"I'll call Leo and let him know we are going."

Pulling into the hospital Bree's eyes open a little. Everything was blurry but there was no way she could mistake that sign. Her heart beat started to race but she couldn't move from the straight jacket she was in.

"Please...let me go. I don't belong here...Don't do this."

The Dr's open the van door alone with the two others close. Reaching in to get Bree out they do there best to try and keep her calm.

"Shhh....Bree just calm down. You know from last time its better to do as we say."

Entering the hospetil Bree's eyes move wildly around the room. The smells, the sounds...it was what Bree had feared the most coming true again.

Another Dr was up to them and just studys Bree for a long moment. There was no mistaking who this mad was with his twisted smile.

"So you have come back Bree."

His accent like nails on a chalk bored to her. He was the worst of men, and enjoyed every moment of it.

Put her in her old room from now. In a few hours we will start where we left off with her shock treatment.

Bree couldnt help the screams that came from her again as she is lead down the hall. All over again it was happening and no one was there. her voice echoed through the hospetial as she could hear other screams from down the hall. This was an all to real nightmare.

Run

2009-12-22T22:33:00.003-05:00

Startled by Faith's touch to his arm, Sparky hadn't even heard her come up behind him. He jumps a little, stopping, then picking up his slow pace again, a gentle smile creasing his lips. "Yeah, you can come help in the barn. Can't say no to that."

A low chuckle comes out and Sparky stops walking near his bunkhouse. "If you show up about seven, seven-thirty in the barn, we can put you to work before breakfast."

He puts a foot on the steps, ready to ascend the porch when he pauses, turning to look at Faith again. "Eat light. Full stomach in the saddle isn't very comfortable." Tossing her a wink, he nods. He didn't mean to be so brief, but exhaustion was suddenly upon him, as was a bit of a headache.

"Goodnight, Faith." His eyes meet hers for a final moment, the moonlight shimmering between them before he blinks and turns to his bunk.

The night is long, but eventually the sun has to rise again. The ranch begins to stir as the light of dawn touches the tips of the trees. Ranch hands start to wake and rise, heading towards the barns for chores. In the dining hall, a few people mingle and dishes rattle as breakfast is prepared.

Six-thirty... Seven... Seven-thirty... Eight. The breakfast bell rings. It wasn't too abnormal that Sparky hadn't been heavily involved in the chores. Sometimes he held back. But when he didn't even show up for breakfast, some of the men began to wonder. Jim wanders down the line of stalls, catching sight of Faith, and he realizes that she's been looking around and waiting.

Thinking, he finally heads to the dining hall, making sure Faith came with and that she felt welcome to join everyone. He casually mentions Sparky and that he's sure he's around here somewhere, knowing that she'd been waiting for him. Once inside the dining hall, he scans the faces and realizes that Sparky is nowhere to be found. Reconsidering his options, he leaves Faith in Annie's capable hands, then heads back outside to the bunkhouses.

Ten minutes later, Jim returns. Breakfast has just started, but he doesn't find a seat at a table. Instead, he bypasses his normal places, going straight to Angel who was sitting near the other woman. He leans down to her and speaks low. "I just found Sparky in his bunk - he's got a high fever and is complaining of being sore. Looks like flu to me, but I think you better check him out to be sure. He didn't want me getting you, the stubborn mule, but I think he's been sick all night and he's gonna need a bit of help whether he likes it or not."

"Ow!" Eli recoils away from Ryan, though still laughs. "Aw, not the eyes... don't give me that look, aww...." He cringes, squinting one eye shut as he looks at his sister. "A musical? I thought Leo was into muscle cars and rock, not.... not sissy stage performances."

Unable to help but give in to Ryan's pleading though, he finally sighs. "Alright... if it will make you happy, or him or whatever, I'll go. But you owe me."

Gunner's body hits the ground hard as he tumbles into the alley, banging into some garbage cans. He didn't feel it though, still unconscious from the blow to the head.

Bryant makes sure he's where no one will find him right away before signaling the driver to keep going. "Alright, he's out of our hair. If he complains to anyone, it's obvious this girl went crazy. The cop tried to stop us with force and we simply defended ourselves. End of story."

He looks to Roger with a sneer. "Not a bad day's work for ten grand. We get this girl dropped off and I'm out of here."

Its at least a half an hour before Gunner's eyes flick open again. He tenses and sits up too quickly, making his world spin as he bumps into spilled garbage. Realizing he was outside, he has no idea where he is. A cloud cover prevented him from guessing how long he'd been there or what direction he was going. He didn't recognize the alley he was in, and he did not know if he was alone or not.

Panic sends his heart racing. "Bree!" he shouts. His words echo against cold brick walls. "Bree!" No answer. Pulling himself to his feet, he staggers before finally getting his balance back. Heading to the street, he looks both ways, squinting at a street sign. Hawthorn. It ran north and south. He must be at the south end of town. Reaching for his pocket, he finds his phone gone. He had no money in his wallet either. But somehow he had to get a hold of someone who could help. Bree had been taken, but there was a dirty cop involved, warning Gunner not to dial the police just yet. Tucking his badge under his hoodie, he sprints into a run, heading down the sidewalk. The nearest place would be the hospital. And JT was working days again.

Yacht

2009-12-22T18:39:00.004-05:00

As the conversation around them becomes lite Annie was righ, Faith felt like she fit right in and this was her family. The air was nice, and it was comfortable. All the fears she had before were gone, and felt like she had know these people for years, not just hours.

Seeing movement by the window Faith just looks for a moment thinking she saw Sparky. Looking back around the room quickly and not seeing Sparky it was confirmation she had seen him. Still not sure how everything worked here and if she would see him again before bed or not she wanted to ask about riding again.

Excusing herself and standing Faith makes her way out of the dinning hall. Seeing Sparky walking slowly across the grass Faith steps off the porch and walks quickly to catch up with Sparky. Gently brushing his arm with her hand to let him know she was there Faith gave a smile slowing her pace down now she was caught up with him.

"Hey, you left before I could talk to you again, and well I am still not sure everyones schedule here so I wanted to catch up with you before you went to bed."

Letting her hand slide down from his arm Faith puts them in her pockets still walking along side Sparky. Now that it was even a little later the night was crisp, and the small breeze felt good.

"I was just wondering what time you wake in the morning and if I could help out in the barn again."

Looking at her brother and raising her eyebrow Ryan did her best to contain her own giggles but not at the tickets but her brothers reaction. She new he probley would react like this but in a way was happy poor Leo wasn't around.

Giving a smirk and moving quickly Ryan gives her brother a few backward hand slaps to Eli's arm as she lets out her own laughs.

"Eli, come on...its for Leo and he REALLY wanted us to go. He always comes to see my races, the least we can do is go with him. Who knows maybe the big hard McKade's have a soft spot. So will you come? PLEASEEEEEEEE???"

Ryan cocks her head to the side and gives her brother big puppy dog eyes.

As Gunner's head hits Roger's jaw with a sicking smack he lets out a cry crashing to the van floor, not even being able to recover before another shot of pain ran through him. Giving a painful growl Roger yells.

"Bryant, get him off of me."

As Bryant pulls Gunner Roger unmercifully kicked Gunner at the same time sending him off of him. Groaning and slipping back into the side of the van Roger glairs at Gunner.

"Yeah well, his head is as hard as a rock."

Swelling had already started in his jaw as he rubs it slightly, shooting a look at Bryant again before looking to the driver of the van.

"Yeah, yeah I'll live I had worse. CAN YOU MOVE THIS THING ANY FASTER?"

Roger was being coming frustrated and just wanted to dump Gunner. Knowing they were a good ways out of town by now they might as well just do it. Than they could get Bree to the hospital and go get his own money.

"Stop the van, just dump him here Bryant. He wont be feeling anything for a while."

Holding her glass on win the diamonds around Ms. Conner wrist give a sparkle in the light. Taking a sip and having up the phone she walks behind the desk running her hand along her husbands shoulders before taking the paper.

"This should work nicely and if any other problems come up its not like it will be hard for you to get it fixed."

Her own tone matched her husbands thought it was obvious where Bree got her pretty features from.

"She brought this on herself really I feel no pity."

Taking the last sip of her wine Ms. Conner lets out a tired bored sigh as she lays the paper down on the desk again. Brushing the wrinkles out of her expensive dress

"Lunch sounds good. I hope Ronnie and Stacy are on the yacht today to show off my new diamonds."

Attempt

2009-12-22T18:20:00.003-05:00

Sparky wanders out to the porch of the dining hall and leans on the railing, scanning the ranch yard. All was quiet. Peaceful. A chill was in the air and he pulls his jacket a little tighter. Another day gone... another twenty-four hours dispersed into memory.

Turning to head down the steps, he happens to glance inside the window once more. His eye catches sight of Annie and Faith, chatting with Jim and Becky at the table. Friends and family were two of the greatest blessings in life.

Stuffing his hands in his pockets, he trudges down the steps and wanders to the bunkhouse, his stride slow.

"Seriously?" The corners of Eli's mouth twitch as he stands in Ryan's kitchen, looking at the tickets Leo had given her. He transforms a laugh into a cough, though it's obvious from his eyes that he's holding back the humor he sees in this.

"A musical, huh?" He clears his throat, letting her keep the tickets. "I, um... think that sounds like just the thing for you and Leo. As a matter of fact, I think I'd probably just be in the way, so you can go then tell me all about it when you come back."

Locking eyes with his sister, something finally comes out, sounding like a combination of a snicker and a choke. "But you'll have to be sure and sing all the songs for me."

Gunner is jolted as the van hits a pothole. Barely opening his eyes, his police instincts kick in and he remains quiet and still, trying to figure out what was going on. They were in a moving vehicle. Going at a pretty fast pace - must be a back street or outskirts of town. Keeping his eyes closed to narrow slits, he sees the police officer Bryant, and the thug Roger. In the front of the van were the two doctors and Bree slumped over unconscious. Where were they being taken?

Bree's confession of her past echos in Gunner's mind. Was this connected? It had to be. But why had they taken him too? Just because he'd gotten in the way? But if they both were held, there would be no hope of escape.

Adrenaline builds in his veins, his heartrate quickening. He could feel the cuffs tight on his wrists - he was virtually helpless. But any dent would weaken a structure and if he made enough dents, there might be some hope.

Shooting up from the floor, he lunges for Roger with a loud growl. Plowing into him head first, he takes him to the floor, giving him a hard headbutt to the mouth and a knee right where it hurts.

Taken totally by surprise, Bryant's eyes widen. He'd thought Gunner was still unconscious. "Why you..." On top of him quickly, he grabs his nightstick and in one blow, Gunner was motionless once again. Grumbling, Bryant drags Gunner off Roger and back to the corner. "This guy weighs a ton. Roger, you alright?"

Mr. Conner sits behind his large oak desk, his hands folded in front of him, his face expressionless. He turns his head to look at his wife as she hangs up the phone. "It's for the best," he reasons, his voice cold compared to the temperature of the room. "She never was right."

A whirring behind him causes him to turn as a fax comes through. Taking the paper, he scans it quickly then hands it to his wife. It was a signed document from Crescentview Mental Facility, agreeing upon the suggested terms for Bree's stay. Radical treatment was required. Outside visitors would be strictly prohibited indefinitely, until mental stability could be proven. Under no circumstances was Jack Timble to be allowed on the premises. The legal documents signed by the judge had been received, and they bound any family member to these terms. Only Mr. or Mrs. Conner could take legal action in having the agreement modified. In case of their death, the case would be turned over to the state, not extended family.

"I think that should cover it." Mr. Conner stands and smooths out his suit, tightening his tie. "Shall we go have lunch now?"

Call

2009-12-21T23:11:00.002-05:00

Both Dr.'s take Bree's drugged up body out of the restraint trying there best not to hurt her more than they already had from the welts on her arms. It was ok thought, she struggled and they had to use force.

Getting her nicely into the van and buckled in the one Dr sits up with Bree and the other gets in to driver side.

Not far behind Roger helps the officer with Gunner. Opening the back doors of the van they throw him inside before getting in as well and shutting the doors.

"Bryant, Sit on the other side of him in case he wakes up. I doubt he will till we are long gone but just in case."

Looking to the front Roger barks his orders.

"Got a good ways out of town on the way to the hospital and than find an ally way. We can dump this guy there and by times he comes to we will be gone."

Leaning back in the van as it starts off with a jerk Roger pulls out his phone and dials a number. Waiting for an answer on the other end of a woman's voice.

"We got her."

"She is awfully quiet I am surprised."

"Yep, she is knocked out at the moment but we are heading there after we dump off some extra baggage."

"Extra baggage?"

"Some guy that was with her. I IDed him as Brent Franklin."

"You idiot, what if he causes trouble?"

Cringing just a little and looking across the van at Bryant he gives a nod.

"Dont worry he wont."

"He better not. Let me know when you get to the hospitable."

Hearing the line go dead Roger hands up his phone and puts it away. The only things to do now was wait.

Darkness

2009-12-21T22:42:00.002-05:00

Mick chuckles at BJ, disappointed with the short conversation, but relieved too, that he didn't have to end it himself. Hearing Rosetta again, his voice becomes quiet once more. "I love you too... I promise I'll come home soon. Hang in there."

Brenda comes around the corner and gives Mick a sympathetic but prompting look. He knew what it meant, and his shoulders drop a little. "Rosetta, I have to go now. I'll call again when I can, okay?" He wishes there was something more he could say... something more substantial. But it all seemed so trite.

So engrossed in the fun at the table, Gunner's guard is down. His usually alert ears and eyes don't notice the four men slip inside and approach the table. By the time they arrive, it's too late.

The fun comes to an instant halt as Gunner's gaze whips to Bree, his eyes starting to widen. It all just happens way too fast. Stunned as Bree is grabbed and screams, he doesn't even know who these men are or what they want. But his instincts kick in and he knew this was danger.

His eyes narrow immediately, the humor instantly replaced by cold anger for coming after Bree. "Let her go!" he barks. Getting to his feet, he steps towards the doctor that had a hold on Bree's arm, but he's pushed back. Realizing that more force is going to be needed, Gunner hauls off and swings a punch, then reaches behind his back. He was running on reflexes now, and his knife was his only weapon.

A strong hand grips his wrist just as he's reaching for his knife. His arm is wrenched behind his back as the hard coolness of metal handcuffs hits his skin. His own fear sets in as he sees Bree continuing to fight, and now he was being subdued as well. "Get off of me!" He tries to whip around to see who was behind him, but all he could get a glimpse of was a police uniform.

"Now, now, take it easy, you know as well as we do that she needs to go back to the hospital."

Gunner feels as though he's been kicked in the gut. Hospital. Doctors. No... oh, no, no, this couldn't be happening. Bree's parents had left her alone. She hadn't seen Roger. She'd been safe. This couldn't be them. But as he looks to the man who was leading this bunch, he knew. He knew in his heart of hearts that this was Roger, aka bounty hunter, hired by Bree's parents. But why?

"No!" Gunner tries to rip himself from the officer's hold, only managing to cut his hands on the cuffs. "Let her go! Don't do this!"

Adrenaline surges through his veins and he thrashes wildly, dragging the officer until they're both brought to the floor. He feels a kick to his spine and a blow to his ribs, but he pays little attention. His eyes were on Bree who was being injected then put in a straight jacket. "Bree! No! Let her go! Bree!"

His hat is knocked off and sweat pours down his face as he struggles with the officer. "I'm an Elite agent, dang it! Let me go! You'll pay! Bree!" But as he sees her disappearing through the restaurant door, a final blow to his skull sends him into darkness.

Drug

2009-12-21T20:13:00.002-05:00

Taking the phone and putting it to his ear BJ's eyes light up as he hears Mick's voice. It had been a long time since he hurd Mick's voice, and the young boy missed his dad very much.

"Daddy, I've miss you. I have been a dood boy, and Uncle Jeff has been helping me with checkers so when you come home I can be better to play with you."

Bringing his loose finger to his up to his lips BJ thinks for a long moment before his stomach starts to growl from hunger.

"I love you Daddy, come home soon. I got to go now before my tummy eats itself."

Handing the phone back to Rosetta BJ quickly walks back into the dinning area to sit down and start him meal.

Holding the phone again Rosetta brings it to her ear clearing her throat.

"We both love you a lot and cant wait for you to come home.Get better soon ok?"

Not being able to contain her laughter as Gunner's drink goes everywhere it rings loud and clear. It was a rare sight to see Bree laugh like this let alone in public, but here she was her laugh so light, but filled with a feeling she hadn't felt in a while.

"Your making a mess, your lucky they expect this from us."

As the laughter and joking contines on the inside, a small group of four assemble on the outside of the restraint. Plans set, how things would go down, and sedatives ready. They would bank on there target freaking, and that would just prove there cause. It would be fast, and easy no room for question.

Evering and going quietly over to the table, they were un noticed for now, but not for long as they would strike standing behind Bree, Roger towered and two Dr's once on each side.

Taking Bree by the arm he leaned down a little his own eyes on Gunner to watch his movement.

"Bree, just come quietly and dont make a scene it will be easyer for you in the long run."

Laughing to hard to even notice anyone came into the restraint let alone being standing behind her it goes unnoticed by Bree. But feeling the cold hand on her arm and the hard voice in her ear does Bree's face go pale as an instant panic appears in her eyes as Bree looks across the table at Bree.

Before anything else can happen Bree almost seems to go into a trance, not knowing where she was but only feeling the fear of going back to the hospital once again. Jerking her arm from Rogers grasp Bree slips from the chair and table.

"NO, I WONT GO BACK."

Moving to get around the table Bree runs into one of the Dr's who grabs her holding her arms rather tight.

"Bree, calm down."

Letting out a blood curdaling scream Bree trys her best to squirm, kick and claw her way away from the Dr. but not being able to move with another Dr at her back it was no use. Tears streamed from Bree's eyes.

"No, No...NOOO....LET ME GO."

Feeling a sting, and a cool liqued go through her veins Bree looks down to see she had been injected with something she had felt before as everything starts to spin. She still tried to kick and claw her way, away as deep red marks mad there way on her arms from where she was being held but the drug was starting to kick in all ready, making her feel sick, and her world spin.

Turning Bree around the Dr wraps his arms around Bree to keep her up while the other put the white jacket on her. Roger looks across the table at Gunner.

"She comes with us. This woman escaped the mental hospital and is very dangerous. Just let us pass and nothing will happen to you."

Volcano

2009-12-21T11:45:00.001-05:00

Mick can hear the strain in Rosetta's voice and it chips off another piece of his heart. He tries to keep his tone steady though. "Yeah... I got enough time to talk to him. Put him on."

Waiting until he hears the boy's voice, Mick tries to be as upbeat as possible. "Hey, BJ! I miss you so much. But I'll be home soon, okay? Have you been behaving for Mom?"

While in the house, Mick was unaware of the episode going on outside...

"Dylan, no! It's not worth it!"

Not listening to Adam's call, Dylan keeps going, his sneakers pounding on the hard ground. Breathing heavily, he reaches the end of the driveway. Freedom. But one more step is all it takes. It had rained two days ago. And last night, the temperature had been cold.

As Dylan's foot hits a patch of slick ice, the world turns upside down. Sprawling hard on the ground, the wind is knocked out of him. Trying to pick himself up, he lets out a cry as pain shoots through his shoulder.

Adam skids to a stop and kneels next to him. "Where are you hurt?"

"Get away from me," Dylan growls. This had been his one chance to get away from here, and one wrong step had cost him his freedom.

"Just settle down," Adam chides firmly. "You really wanna go? Go. But nothing's waiting for you out there than the same thing you came here with - trouble and a life worth nothing because you threw it away." He pauses, seeing the shape of Dylan's arm. "And on top of that, you'll be walking around with a dislocated shoulder. Now come on."

Dylan winces as Adam helps him up. He'd try to bolt again, were it not for the excruciating pain. "What do you care?" he grumbles. He'd been here close to two weeks and this was the closest thing to a conversation with Adam as he'd had.

"I guess because I'm wired that way. I care about people and I care about where they end up. You've got too much potential for me to just walk away." Adam positions Dylan next to him and feels his shoulder. "This is gonna hurt."

Dylan braces himself for the yank, crunch and pop. His eyes water from the pain, but he doesn't utter a sound.

Adam stops and just studies him for a long moment. "You need to put some ice on that. Follow me."

With his head down, Dylan trudges after Adam.

Sparky walks past the kitchen in time to realize that Rosetta and BJ were around the phone. From the look on Rosetta's face, he could only imagine that it was Mick, so he keeps on walking, not wanting to intrude.

Scanning all the faces of those who were gathering to eat, Sparky tries to decide where he wants to sit, but spotting only a few empty chairs, he wanders to the outskirts, nearer the hearth. Sitting at he smaller table, his mind wanders to and fro. He thinks about when Mick might be back and how that will change things again. He was just getting used to the new routines, but once Mick was home, things would change back to the way they were. It should be that way... Mick was the man in charge. But at the moment, the men were looking to Sparky for direction, and he was filling the role as need be. He'd done it before... and just like before, the position would be removed once Mick was back. Sparky didn't like the little pangs of selfishness that wanted to escape, and he tried to smother them with thoughts of the positive aspects.

Fiddling with a salt shaker, he doesn't notice when the food is being served. His thoughts bounce from his own dilemma to Faith and the question of why someone as sweet as she, needed to go through a physical nightmare. It didn't seem fair. But God never promised fairness and Sparky knew it all too well.

He then thinks of Dan and Jade. That brings his mind full-circle back to Mick and when he returned. How would that affect the young couple that had obviously fallen for each other? Sparky didn't want to see either one get hurt - they'd already both faced enough in their lives without this being hard too.

Sighing, Sparky folds his arms to rest his head on them, closing his eyes. The older he got, the more engrossed he became in trying to fix the problems around him. But sometimes, there was just nothing he could do. It was harder now than it used to be to let go though.

Gunner waits for Bree to return, his grin a wide, silly one. "I'm as ready as I'll ever be. He holds up his keys. "My turn to drive."

It was a quick drive to the little diner, and they take up their normal spot by the window. Ordering floats that don't float while keeping straight faces was their routine, and it didn't change, even when they had a new waitress today. By the time she came back with their floats, she was so confused that Gunner made a note to be sure and leave a good tip for putting up with them.

Most of the time, dates over lunchtime were fairly quiet as Gunner and Bree took time to relax from the workday. Neither minded the long breaks in conversation, but today Gunner was in rare form, his goofy side coming out more than normal.

With his elbows spread on the table, his head was bent low so he could still manipulate the straw in his glass without using his hands. His hat was still backward and he glances up to Bree, then back down almost cross-eyed to his float. Blowing slowly through his straw, bubbles started to form. As the ice cream and foam rose, it came dangerously close to the rim of the glass, but he continued to blow, seeing how much of a mountain could be created before it overflowed.

At some point, one of the bubbles bursts, sending rootbeer spray onto his nose. Up until this point, his face had been sober, but that did it. An uncontrolled laugh comes out, but unfortunately, his mouth was still around his straw. The sudden burst of air causes a brief but powerful eruption, sending ice cream froth and rootbeer into the air like a mini firework, splattering in a sticky mess all over Gunner's side of the table.

Having sucked in as a reaction to the volcano, Gunner's mouth was now full, but his laughter was hindering him from swallowing. His silent laughter makes his face grow redder and redder until he turns his hat around to cover it up, desperately trying not to spit out what was in his mouth.

Popsicle

2009-12-20T22:25:00.002-05:00

Hearing Mick's voice sent a chill through Rosetta. It had been so long since she had herd such a sweet sound. Hearing he was doing better was an even nicer sounds. The better he was the sooner he could come home and though it hurt that he couldn't come home today, or tomorrow it was comforting to know, to hear from him he was well.

As the conversation comes back around to her Rosetta pauses for a moment. She didnt want Mick to worry about her while he was there, but if she lied to him he would know and that might just upset him more.

"I'm here..I will be alot better once you are home again. But I am hanging in there the best I can. Not a day goes by I dont think of you, and pray you will come home soon."

Rosetta can feel her own voice crack as she stands in the kitchen leaning against the wall.

"That day will be one of the best days. BJ is here, do you have time to talk to him?"

Cringing just a little as Leo trips over the tool box Ryan closes her eyes not wanting to even see him fall. But not hearing him hit the ground she opens her eyes to see Jed caught him. A grin forms on her face once again as she just shakes her head and goes back to the car she had been working on.

Giving a shake of her head, it was always nice to see Gunner interact with the kids. They took so well to him, and just to have someone out of the norm come and see them was a nice treat.

"Come on guys, lets get you back to the story so you can finish hearing it to ok? Maybe if your good Gunner will come back again to see you as well."

Ushering the two kids down the hall Bree holds up her finger to let Gunner know she would be right back.

With in minutes Bree was back and with her jacket this time. She had an hour for lunch but than had to be back. It was a nice break in the day to get out and just go some where for lunch. Not to mention Gunner and herself always made the best of it.

"Alright ready to blow this popsicle stand?"

Rugrats

2009-12-20T21:56:00.003-05:00

Leo bites his lip until a grin slips out. He could see the laughter behind Ryan's eyes, though she respected him too much not to let it out. "You won't be sorry... I promise."

He backs towards his own car again before turning around one more time. "But you have to make sure Eli agrees to go. Odd man out or not, just make sure he says yes, even if you have to bribe him with a late night ice cream afterward, on me."

Walking backward, he hadn't seen the toolbox that Jed had set beside the car and his foot catches it. Starting to fall, Jed catches him and they do a little fumbling dance before they're both steady again.

Jed puts his hands on his hips and shakes his head. "Dude... get your head back where it belongs and quit flirting with your girl."

Though red in the face, Leo tosses Ryan a grin and a wink. Flirting with her was worth any amount of razzing at work.

Gunner sees the two little girls come running down the hall and his grin widens. Hanging up the phone, he slides off the counter just in time to sweep the littlest one off her feet and tuck her to his hip. "Hey, Tiger, slow down or you're gonna plow right into somebody."

His lips smack her forehead with a "Mwah!" right before he's joined by the second child. "Whoa, I'm being attacked." He hugs her to his other side, tickling her spine. "Don't tell me you want a date too."

Finally seeing Bree, a chuckle escapes. "For a minute, I thought I was gonna have to leave you high and dry for these two cuties."

Setting the child back on her feet, he squats down, pulling a couple balloons from his back pocket, which he promptly blows up and gives to each of them. He stands up again, setting his hands on his hips and looking to Bree. "If you wanna get these rugrats back to where they belong, that float is waiting..." He reaches down to cover up one of the girls' ears teasingly. "...And that kiss."

Friends

2009-12-20T19:26:00.003-05:00

Looking up from under the car Ryan could see Leo clearly from where an engine once sat in a car. Giving him a grin she listens to him talk as she continues to work.

"You know I always like going place with you, but dragging my brother along, thats....he might feel like the third wheel ya know?"

Ryan scrunches her nose as she tightens a bolt before looking up again at the tickets Leo held. Not being able to see to well from under the car Ryan pushes herself from under the car and stands. Whipping her hands on her pants before coming around to Leo. Taking the tickets from him to look at the closer.

Feeling a small laugh build inside of her Ryan does her best to keep it down not wanting to laugh at all. It was aparent Leo wanted to go. Her was right when he said it was something they didn't often do.

Looking over the tickets for a moment and raising her eyebrow Ryan just looks at Leo. Finally handing the tickets back to Leo Ryan gives a nod.

"Ok, I'll go and check it out with you. Never know I could end up liking it right? And...I'll ask Eli to if he would like to go as well. Just for you Leo."

Sitting in the room with a group of the kids Bree flips the page of the book she was reading to them. About to start another page Bree stop hearing the announcement start. Not being able to help the chuckle that escapes her lips the corners of her lips start to turn up into a smile.

Before Bree can even stand two of the girls from the back of the group ages 5, and 7 jump up heading for the door.

"Kim, Chang...wait."

But it was to late both were out the door and down the hall squealing.

"GUNNER, GUNNER, GUNNER...."

Passing the book off to one of the older children to continue reading Bree stands and leaves the room. Coming down the hall, a large smile on her face, Bree didnt care who was around and watching knowing she was with Gunner. She wasn't embarrassed by him or his display. Crossing her arms across her chest she gives another laugh.

"Looks like you made some frineds Gunner. Right about now, I think none ice cream floats, cherrys, and kiss sound great."

Your party

2009-12-20T18:01:00.002-05:00

Tears spring into Mick's eyes at Rosetta's words. He hadn't planned on being emotional, but to just have the first thing she says be that she loved him... it sent pangs through his heart that were too much to bear. He'd failed miserably but she still loved him.

"I love you too." His voice cracks and he pauses until he can speak clearly. Bends to rest his elbows on the counter, closing his eyes to concentrate on what he wanted to say.

"I miss you guys something terrible. Every night all I can think about is you and BJ... that's what keeps me going... and what keeps me here until I can handle things again." Be bites his lip. "I've only got a few minutes..." He might have been friends with Adam and Brenda, but he knew that while he was here as a client, he had to abide by the rules. "...but I wanted to call and.... and let you know that I'm okay. I'm... I'm getting better. I want to be able to come home soon and make up for all the stupid things I've said and done and... I don't know... I just want to make things right."

Swallowing hard, he rubs his forehead, trying to stay on track. "Are you doing okay?"

Eli gives a little smile, the atmosphere having suddenly gone melancholic. "Yeah... yeah, I miss him too."

Taking a deep breath, Eli gets up to go dump out the rest of his beer, then comes back to hang over the back of the couch, his hands folded. "Thanks, Ry... I really appreciate what you're doing... someday I'll be able to pay back the favor."

Straightening and roughing up her hair, he turns to the hallway. "I'm gonna hit the sack. Tomorrow I'll make some phone calls and start the job hunt. And... I'll think about staying here or finding space at Leo's."

Stars dot the dark Nevada sky. For some, they are a wondrous display to be watched and admired before cuddling on the couch to fall asleep with a movie droning in the background. For some, the nighttime specks were nightlights, keeping watch over those slumbering past the worries and doubts of their futures. For others still, the stars gave hope that even the darkest night was not so dark after all, and the promise of morning was still there. And morning did come, slow and sure, the closest star of all rose in the east to pain the sky's canvas brilliant colors of pinks and golds, calling those sleeping to wake for the day.

"No, I'm living off unemployment at the moment, but hopefully that'll be over soon."

"Well whats the bandage for if it's not done yet?"

Axel leans back against the toolbench, glancing down at his hand. It was still a bite sore, even after this long after the minor surgery. "Trial run." He grins at Miles' feet sticking out from under the car in the auto shop. "It's complicated. But it was worth a shot."

"Daryl letting you come back afterward?"

"Yeah, he said he was keeping the spot open for me. If I can get the use of my hand back, I'll be back to work. If not... I'll have to figure something else out."

On the other side of the shop, Leo half listens to Axel while leaning into an engine and half paying attention to his conversation with Ryan too. He'd let her know that he was fine with Eli rooming with him if he wanted to, and he was glad that this new friend would be sticking around in the area. He knew that it made Ryan happy too, which made him even more glad.

Something else was on his mind too though and after missing half of what Ryan just said, he withdraws from the engine, wiping his oily hands on his rag. "Hey, Ryan..." Ambling to where she was working on another car, he leans on the frame, glancing in to what she was doing. "I checked the work schedule and there's a day coming up that neither of us are working. I thought maybe that night you and me and Eli could go do something."

He fiddles with his rag, oddly hesitant before reaching in his pocket and pulling out a couple tickets. "I... know this isn't the kind of thing we normally do and I don't know if Eli would actually want to or not but... I thought it might be fun... kinda different. I got a hold of front row seats."

The two tickets, one for Ryan and one fore Eli, were to a music and dance performance at the convention center in the next city over. Advertisements had been around town, proving that it was a fairly big local event. Fliers had described the show as a musical, portraying a story of young love and comedy. The dance routines were showcased as the main attraction, along with upbeat, contemporary music.

Leo was right - this was not something they would normally attend. It was pretty far from street races, action movies or parties. He could imagine Eli bursting out laughing at the idea, but he wanted him along for a reason, and he just hoped that Ryan would accept, even if she really didn't want to go. "What do you think?"

Gunner casually wanders into the children's hospital that was becoming more familiar. Today, he was in sneakers and jeans, a black pull-over hoodie keeping him warm. His baseball cap was turned backward so a few tufts of his hair stuck through the hole and his Elite badge swung from around his neck. He was without his sidearm today, but only a few people would know he had a knife hidden up his back.

Leaning on the counter, he throws a nurse an unmistakably flirtatious look, along with an obvious wink. Completely turned off, the appalled nurse sidles away so someone else could deal with him. Grinning at his success, Gunner looks over the counter before glancing left then right, and finding himself briefly alone. Checking out the phone, he boosts himself up to sit on the counter, his legs swinging. He reaches for the phone, and holds it upside down like a mic, pressing the button for the intercom.

"Miss Conner, your party is waiting. If you're in the mood for a floatless float topped with a cheery and a kiss, please come to the front desk. Miss Conner, your party awaits."

Several surprised shouts come from a back room and Gunner knew that in moments, he would be surrounded by irritated nurses. He didn't move though, still seated on the desk counter watching down the hall for Bree.

Miss Him

2009-12-20T12:24:00.002-05:00

Receiving Bret's kiss Charlotte is all to quick to give back the emotions she felt. It had been a crappy day, and her chair layed broke in the kitchen but that was only minor to what could of happened.

Wrapping her arms around her husband as the kiss continues Charlotte was non to quick for it to end. Bret meant the world to her, and nothing could change that. She had taken the time to see deeper into his heart, past the quick temper, to see the man that was there, giving his love to her and nothing could even change that. At one point in life Charlotte could never dream of having someone else take care of her, but now she couldn't imagine being alone again.

Ryan gives a thoughtful not to Eli. She didn't mind helping him get back on his feet. As long as he payed off his dept, and stayed out of trouble it was not problem to her.

"You can stay here and not worry about rent right now, and if you dont feel comfortable with that I know Leo was looking for a roommate so you could ask him."

Standing and bringing her glass to the sink in the kitchen Ryan rinses it out before coming back into the livingroom and hopping back up on the couch Indian style.

"As for jobs, you cant work where I work because you might show me up in front of the other..."

Ryan gives a sidelong glance to Eli as a grin forms on her lips proving she was kidding with him.

"...But I can ask Derail if he knows any other shops that are looking for people. I know I saw some signs I just don't remember where."

Thinking for a long moment Ryan sits quietly. But hearing Eli's mention to there father Ryan looks to him and gives a small. A glisten behind her eye. Though she didnt day it much, she did miss there dad, and she though about him often.

"I wish he was here to see us. I miss him alot around this time of year."

Hearing who was on the phone for her Rosetta gets up from the table a little quicker than normal. Calling BJ to come with her. She couldn't leave him out when almost every day he had asked where Dad was and when he was coming home.

Getting into the kitchen Rosetta takes the phone and just holds it for a long moment. Gathering her words on what she was going to say. Finally bringing the phone to her ear, everything she wanted to say left her mind, and she could feel herself choak up as Mick's breathing could be hurt on the other end.

"Mick? I love you."

It was the only thing she could think of saying because How are you just didnt seem right, and asking when he would be home right off the bat seemed tastless. So her words were simple but strong, leaving room for Mick to talk next!

Ten minutes

2009-12-20T01:14:00.003-05:00

Emotions fill Bret's eyes as he's reassured by Charlotte that he is good enough and that she will not leave. After Maria, his greatest fear was going through that heartache all over again, so just having Charlotte assure him now was more than he could ask for.

As his thoughts are brought to their unborn child, he looks down at his hand as he can just barely feel movement. His eyes come back up to his wife's and they glisten in the dim light. Maybe it was the alcohol, maybe it was the stress, or maybe it was relief. Regardless, only she would see the tear in his eye before he leans in to press his lips to hers.

He was sorry their day had turned out so poorly and that they had fought. But as confident as she was about staying with him, so too was he confident that he could never let her go. Taking her into an embrace as the kiss lingers, all he cares about now is how much he loved her.

Eli looks up at Ryan and grins. "Alright... I'll give it a shot. Anything I got left back in Florida, I can have my buddy send to me. If I can actually find a job around here, most of my paycheck will be going towards my debt. But if you can stand me being here for a while... I'll be able to make it up to you eventually. Unless you can help me find a cheap place so I won't have to take up your spare room any longer."

Taking another sip of beer, he grimaces. "This doesn't even taste good tonight." Setting it down, he sighs and glances to Ryan again. "You're the best sister any guy could ever ask for, and don't you forget it. Pops would be so proud of you."

Sparky grins as he and Faith walk back towards the dining hall. It felt natural for them to link arms. He couldn't explain it, but over the course of just a few hours, he felt like old friends. He didn't know if she did or not, but he at least felt as though this afternoon had been a lifetime.

Arriving inside, many of the others have already gathered. Sparky points towards a middle table. "Looks like Annie saved you a spot." He lets her arm slide from his. "I'll see you later."

In the kitchen, the phone rings and Becky sets down a basket of rolls to answer it. Hearing who it was, she quickly sets down the receiver and goes to find Rosetta and BJ, who were joining in tonight.

Leaning down so only Rosetta could hear, Becky keeps her voice low. "Brenda gave Mick ten minutes on the phone - he's waiting for you."

...Mick bites his lip as he leans on the kitchen counter, alone in the room. He was doing well enough that Adam and Brenda agreed he could have minimal contact with his family now. A ten minute phone call was an eternity compared to the silence over the last week and a half. He only hoped Rosetta would actually want to talk to him.

Gift

2009-12-19T23:24:00.003-05:00

Just listing to her brother Ryan was intent on hearing everything not letting a thing slip by. Eli was her brother and she would always do what she could for him. Even if she was the baby sister.

"My brother has become, the same person I always new. Your no differnt just because you made some bad chooses. Heck, we all do. If I had never made that bed on Leo, I never would of owed Roth money and I never would of taken a bullet. Every choose we make has its consequences."

Standing Ryan makes her way over to her brothers side and just puts an arm around his shoulder. No matter what she would always love him. Not because she had to, but because she wanted to.

"We will find you a new job ok and than you wont be mooching so you can stop yapping on about that. Things will work themself out."

Sitting up even more so she could be closer to Brett, Charlotte intertwines her fingers with him just holding it and not saying anything for a long moment. Finally looking up at Bret Charlotte cocks her head to the side studying his eyes.

"Bret, I am not Maria. I love more than just for money, and I want you for more than just the simple material things you can off me. Your more than good enough for me, the day I ment you, you were, the day of your accident, and even today you still more than I could ever ask for."

Pausing for a moment Charlotte takes in a breath gathering her thoughts before starting again.

"I'll never leave you Bret! I love you far to much to do a silly think like that. As far as ever wanting or needing anything..."

Charlotte takes another deep breath as she can feel a soft little kick inside her belly. Taking Bret's hand and resting it on her stomach so he could feel the soft movement too Charlotte keeps her hand on top of his. Looking up into his eyes and giving a smile.

"...You already gave me the greatest gift of all."

"Mmm...I think everything you talked to me about today was rather interesting. I learned a lot today that I never new."

Just gazing into Sparky's eyes for a long moment Faith finally looks away. Happy it was dark out so the warm color that had come to her cheeks could not be seen.

Looking up again and see Sparky off his arm to her, and the invitation to dinner Faith moves away from the fence and links arms with him. Being drawn closer to him she felt instantly warmer from the nights cold air.

"Dinner sounds fantastic. I hadn't realized how hungry I was till just now. Lead on my good man."

Giving a chuckle Faith was ready to make there way to dinner.

Debt

2009-12-19T23:02:00.002-05:00

Sparky's eyes are drawn into Faith's and he chuckles quietly. "Payment? I'll teach you to ride because I want to, not because I want you to work for it."

Hearing her thanks, he finally breaks his gaze and leans back on the fence, looking towards the main house and dining hall where lights were shining from the windows. "I enjoyed the day too. Most people would get bored with my company, so either you're easily entertained or I actually came up with something interesting enough for you to stick around."

He gives her a sidelong glance, shooting her a wry grin. Straightening, he holds out the crook of his arm. "Join me in the dining hall for supper?"

"Yeah..." Bret sighs. "I know. I guess we both messed up." His voice was much calmer than it had been hours earlier.

"I'm sorry for yelling at you too. You hurt my feelings... but I still shouldn't have lost my temper like that. I just... I guess it brought up some bad memories and I thought I was gonna start losing you because I wasn't doing a good enough job."

He pauses, reaching out to stop Charlotte's fingers from picking at the blanket, and he raises his eyes to meet hers. "I'll be able to drive again in a few weeks... then we'll have more money. Just... don't give up on me, okay? I promise I'll do my best so you won't need for anything and... and you won't have to work."

A fear was in his eyes... a fear that Charlotte would find her independence again and no longer need him. A fear that he would not be good enough anymore. A fear that he would lose what was most precious to him.

Eli lets out a long, weary sigh, but he nods. It was only fair that Ryan knew everything. "Well, I'm not gonna mooch, but I do want to stay... I like being around my family again and I was getting pretty tired of Florida anyway."

Staring to pace again, he wanders to the kitchen to grab himself a beer from the six pack he'd bought a couple days ago. Flipping open the tab, he comes back to the living room and sinks down into the chair again, taking a long sip.

"I got in with the wrong crowd, Ryan. I don't know how, but... it seemed like a good idea at the time. I wanted some extra money to bet on some of the races going on down there, so I thought what the hey... turn a blind eye and don't get caught, what's the harm?" He sighs again. "They had me make a few deliveries. I didn't ask and they didn't tell. Ends up that I place a personal bet with one of these guys and I lose. Problem was, I had bet more money than I had. So... I started paying him little by little. He wasn't satisfied though and at that point, it was either pay him or get a bullet to my head. I started rooming with another guy so my rent wouldn't be so high, and I got the other guy to back down until I could pay him off. I did, but... in the meantime, I wound up owing a bunch of other people because all my money was going towards the thug down the street."

Eli scoffs at himself and takes another sip of beer. "I got bills up the ying yang and it's just getting deeper. Then when I came out here, I didn't actually have but a couple days vacation time. My boss warned me that I had to be back, but coming here was more important. I took a risk and lost. Found out a couple weeks ago that I don't have a job to go back to. So now... I'm in debt up to my gills and I don't have a job."

Tapping a finger on his beer can, Eli finally looks to his sister. He was embarrassed to admit all this. He was supposed to be the strong one... the smart one. "So there you have it, Speedy. This is what your brother has become."

Joy

2009-12-19T21:20:00.002-05:00

Feeling the gentile shake to her shoulder a potent smell fills her noise like someone had spend the night in the bar. Slowly opening her eyes and seeing Bret a small smile comes to her face. No matter what seeing Bret always made her smile.

"Hey, I know but I wanted to wait and have dinner with you."

Sitting up a little Charlotte searches Bret's eyes for a long moment. She would of waiting forever for him to come home, as long as he had.

Looking down at her hands for a long moment Charlotte picks at the blanket that was over her legs. She had done alot of thinking of her own, and though she was upset with Bret for more than one reason, it was her fault this whole thing started. She was pig headed, and thick skulked and she new it.

"I'm sorry I didn't tell you. I was going to tell you honest before the last show because I wanted you to be there, but I should have talked to you first. I'm so use to being independent...and though I meant good by it I just didn't think."

Hearing Sparky's words brought Faith a bit of comfort. It was nice to hear the kind words and it made her smile. Hearing conformation about Angel as well was nice. To have someone tell you a Dr was good, was one thing but having someone confirm it was just an added comfort. Giving a smile Faith gives a nod.

"Teach me how to ride for real, and let me help you in the barn as payment?"

Giving a smile to Sparky Faith's eyes give a twinkle as she scans his face. The moonlight seemed to reflect off it just right and his handsome features donning a soft glow. Her heart gave a little flutter.

"I really did enjoy spending the day with you. Thank you."

"Eli, your family I could never turn you away. You can mooch off me all you like, its what familys are for. You know Pop taught us better than to turn anyone in need away."

Turning off the TV Ryan moves to the edge of the couch bringing her arms to her knees and leaning forward. Thinking for a long moment. Ryan new Eli was proud, it ran in the family because she was to. She only hopped Eli would let her help.

"Eli, you can stay here as long as you need to and I mean that. I like having you around again, and I will help you all I can, bills finding you a job. I'll help. It would be more a burden on me for you to leave and have me worry about you. But in order to stay here, you have to tell me everything from the start...ok?"

Friends

2009-12-19T19:10:00.003-05:00

Eli glances over to Ryan, wondering at her tone. Did she know? It wouldn't take a genius - he'd been hanging around for much longer than thought to begin with, without ever mentioning returning to Florida. He just hadn't wanted to admit what was really going on, but he hadn't wanted to leave either.

"Sure... You're a plus of course. But looks like mechanics aren't too hard to come by around here - as far as I could see, your auto shops are all filled up." He shrugs. "As far as food goes, I've been eating off of you for too long already."

Pausing for several moments he finally leans forward with a little groan, tossing the pack of cards aside. "Ryan..." He rests his elbows on his knees, putting his chin in his hands. It was rare that he would refuse to look her in the eye, but he did now. "There's stuff... I mean... " Sighing, he suddenly stands up, pacing a little and looking up to the ceiling. "I haven't been too smart, Ry. I come with... a long list of regrets that I'd rather not have to admit to my sister."

Eventually he stops pacing and looks down at Ryan. "I, um... I've got people that would just prefer I got back to Florida. But not because they miss me. They just want my wallet. Unfortunately, you can't squeeze blood from a turnip and right now, I feel like a turnip."

He didn't know if his implication that he owed money was enough for her to understand or not. "And..." He stops. "I didn't want to tell you this... I guess 'cause I'm mad at myself." He shrugs. "I want to stay here... I really do. Main reason is you. Another reason is that I've been rooming with another guy 'cause I couldn't afford my own place. And... another reason is that... I don't have a job anymore. When I said I was mooching off of you, I wasn't lying... I really have been."

Hooking his hands in his jeans pockets, he just looks at his sister, obviously embarrassed, but at the same time, relieved that she knew. There were a lot of details though.... and he owed her an explanation. But he'd let her digest what he'd just said first.

Sparky cocks his head and stops alongside Faith, sensing something wrong. Listening quietly, he doesn't interject, though his facial expression softens, his eyes showing he was troubled by the news of this new friend.

As she looks up at him, he lets his eyes linger on hers, not afraid to see her emotions shimmering through them. "Anybody in your shoes would be scared," he responds quietly. "There's nothing wrong with that."

Thinking a moment, he gives a little nod. "Annie was right - this is a good place to take care of yourself. We got our problems, but you won't find a better bunch of people, and Angel's a right fine doctor to look out for things after the surgery... 'cause I'm sure you'll make it through just fine."

Sparky offers a gentle smile. "You're a good example for anyone... living the day as if it's your last." Pausing, his eyes roam to the darkening ranch, then back to her eyes. "How can I help make that happen?"

"Bret, what on earth are you doing here? Do you know what time it is?"

Bret looks up at his big friend lamely. It was very late, that's all he knew. In reality, it was near one o'clock in the morning. It had been dark for quiet a while, and he was pretty sure that he'd woken up Con by his disheveled hair and tired eyes. "Can I come in?"

Con furrows his brow warily. "You been drinking?"

"Yeah..." Bret couldn't lie to Con. "Just a little."

Con sighs and opens the door. "Come in."

Bret looks down as he enters, and just stands like a whipped puppy until Con moves him to the living room chair to sit. Con looks at him with question. "Well?"

Bret swallows hard. "Charlotte and I... well no... we didn't really have a fight. I just..."

"Lost your temper again," Con states flatly. "What happened?"

"I don't know." Bret's eyes stay on the floor. "She just... she got another job without telling me and... and I just... I don't understand."

"Mmm." Con leans back in his chair. He'd probably be quite upset if Jamie did that, but that wasn't what Bret needed to hear right now. "So you walked out?"

"I didn't want to fight," Bret defends. "I... I... okay, maybe I yelled at her before I left. But I wanted to calm down so... so I got a drink then... came here."

"Or two, or three," Con corrects knowingly while frowning. "So Charlotte tells you she got a second job and you flip."

"At a nightclub!" Bret elaborates with exasperation. "Singing! I didn't even know she could sing. And she's pregnant! She shouldn't be working so much, let alone hiding it from me."

"Well, she's got a little time before she needs to settle down," Con reasons. He wanted to reprimand Bret for his reaction, but it was hard, imagining himself in that same position. He wouldn't be upset with Jamie - he would be furious. "Know why she did it?"

"Kinda." Bret moans and puts his face in his hands. "I guess I'm not good enough. I can't provide enough and I'm not even worthy to be let in on everything."

"Now hang on, don't blow it out of proportion."

"I'm not, Con! This is exactly what happened with Maria. We started with little fights, she started taking on things that she didn't let me in on, she decided I wasn't giving her enough, then one day, she realized she didn't need me anymore. Charlotte and I are heading down the same path. I can feel it and her keeping a job a secret from me just confirms it."

Con studies Bret's face for several moments. "You're scared of losing her, aren't you?"

"Terrified." Loosened up by alcohol, Bret's eyes fill. "I'm not doing a good enough job. I... I can't make enough money - I've been out of work forever 'cause of that stupid accident. I'm gonna have to support a family now, and my wife is out working two jobs. What does that say about me?"

"It says your wife loves you very much." Con shakes his head. "But it also says you two need to work on your communication. You're right - she shouldn't have kept that from you. She's probably got a whole list of reasons why, but she should have communicated with you. And you - you shouldn't be telling me this - you should be telling her this."

"But she'll just point out that we need the money!"

"Then either figure out a new job for you or swallow your pride until something better comes along."

Bret's shoulders drop and there is a long pause. "Can I just stay here the night?"

"No." Con rises and points to the door. "You need to go home to your wife."

"But-"

"No." Con waits for Bret to stand as well. "I'm not going to assist in hindering your marriage. Don't lay down and give up, Bret. You did that once. Fight to keep what you got this time. You know Charlotte's worth it."

"But I-"

"Walk a straight line." Con points to the floor.

Bret rolls his eyes and walks a straight line, going through a short routine to prove he was sober enough to drive, though he was inebriated.

"Now go home," Con directs. "And don't stop at the bar on your way."

Bret heaves a weary sigh and nods lamely. "Yeah... yeah, okay." Getting turned out, he limps down the walk to his car, feeling even lower than when he'd arrived.

Con makes sure his friend is on his way before shutting the door and letting out his own sigh. Shaking his head, he turns off the lights and heads back upstairs. Easing into bed, he gives a little groan, knowing he needed to cram in some more sleep before work in the morning. "Friends," he mumbles. "Gotta love 'em."

Bret parks in the drive and sits thinking for several long minutes. He was a bit more alert now, but just as depressed. Maybe he was more mad at himself now than anything. He was still upset with Charlotte, but he felt worse for yelling at her like he had.

Eventually, he gets himself to the front door and inside, finding only a small light on. Glancing into the kitchen, he sees that she had indeed fixed supper, and now it sat lonely and cold. Turning to the living room, he limps a few feet, seeing Charlotte lying on the couch. Just looking at her for a moment, he finally sheds his jacket and sets his keys aside.

Sitting on the edge of the couch, looking to his wife's face seems to shatter the anger he had left. He reaches down and runs a hand through her hair, then gently shakes her shoulder.

"Hey," he prompts quietly. He knew as soon as she woke, she'd be able to tell he'd been to the bar, but at this point, he knew there was a lot that needed to be said anyway. "You should be in bed."

Focus

2009-12-19T16:19:00.002-05:00

Wanting to retort and make comment's back to Bret defending herself about why she didnt tell him Charlotte couldn't get a word in edge why. Maybe in a way it was better that way or she would just make things worse.

Leaving the laundry for now Charlotte's goes after him as he lets out a howl. Wanting to make sure he was ok. But as she gets to the kitchen the chair goes flying across the floor. As it hits the wall and breaks Charlotte gives a jump wrapping her arm around herself.

Just watching Bret leave the cold glare cutting through her hot tears from in Charlotte's eyes. From anger, being upset, shame. Slowly going over to the chair Charlotte sinks down to the floor picking up the broken peaces of the old oak chair. It was the only one in the set they had, that didnt match but it was special. Her grandmother had given it to her a few months back before she passed away. It wasnt much but it meant a lot of Charlotte.

Taking the peaces Charlotte just looks at them for a long moment thinking if she could put them together but it seemed unlikely. Standing and putting them over in the corner so I could be taken out with the trash.

Moving back to the fridge the tears still streamed from Charlotte's face but she had to figure out what was for dinner tonight. Bret said not to wait up, but she would have dinner on the table for him anyways.

Keeping her eyes straight ahead as she walked stealing glances at Sparky everyone once and a while. A smile on her face showing she was having a nice time just walking.

"I'd like to really learn how to ride a horse. Always wanted to since I was a kid, I just never had the opportunity too."

Continuing to walk, Faith lets out a thoughtful sigh at the mention of going home. It hadnt come up in conversation and she wasn't trying to hide it, it just simply hadn't come up. Looking at Sparky Faith gives a smile at Sparky.

"Oh, maybe I will go back sooner or later but right now...its just not in focus."

Stopping for a moment Faith leans against the one fence that was coming to an end just looking at the ground and thinking for a moment. The only person who new was Annie, and soon Rosetta, and Angel when they talked to them. But maybe having another friend know would be nice too. She wasn't ashamed it was just hard.

"I have nothing left in Thailand. My family is gone, and most the money I had was spent on Dr. bills that didn't do a darn bit of good."

Looking up at Sparky again Faith's eyes held emotions of someone who was thinking about something that was important and a little scare at the same time. Knowing Sparky would have no idea what she was talking about Faith continues.

"I've always had trouble with headaches as a kid. Normal migraines is what my parents always thought. As I got older sometimes the headaches were so bad my vision was blurry, and I'd just have to stay in a darkroom till it was gone. About nine months ago when your sister came to Thailand she was my live in."

Moving her toe in the frozen earth below her for a moment Faith gathers her thoughts before looking up again.

"About a week after she had been staying with me I ended up blacking out. Annie took me to the hospetil and come to find out I had a tumor in my brain about the size of a golf ball. The Dr. didnt understand how I was still alive seeing as it had been there for a while. So I ended up going into sugary and having it removed. We thougth they got it all and for the last 7 months things had been really well. Than a month ago my heackahes had come back. I wasn't blacking out or anything but the pain of the headaches were back, and sometimes they hurt even more than before. So I went back to the Dr and had more test run. It would seem they didnt get all the tumor out that first time. How that happend I dont know, but the medical field in Thailand lacks the skills and tools."

Letting out another deep breath looking up at the twinkling starts.

"So, I came here with Annie because the resources in the US are so much better to have the tumor removed for a second time. Annie told me the best place to recover would be here at the ranch and she wanted to give back the hospitality that I had shown her. Knowing her sister in law wouldn't mind. She even said there was a Dr. on site here so if I needed one."

Looking at Sparky and searching his eyes for a long moment Faith found comfort in them. For a reason she didn't know when she had just met him but it was there.

"Now, I want to try and live my life each day and a time savoring what I can. Going in for the brain surgery for a second time there is alot of scar tissue from the first time, and its tricky. I could die from it. I just have to trust my life is in God's hand and live each day like its my last. Though I addmit, I am scaried more than I let on."

Katie's eyes widen just a little as she listing to Rick. What he said made sense but still, it was a bit surprised what he wanted Jason to do.

Even if they didn't mean to brand us, its still there and it doesn't change the Agency knowing who we are. I guess we will just cross that bridge when we come to it.

Leaning back on the bed again Katie just lets her eyes fall shut. She felt so tired, maybe rest right now WAS the best thing.

Just watching the tv for a long moment Ryan listens to what Eli says but dosnt reply right away. She had known for a long time something was wrong with her brother. She could get the vibes from him, and even after all these years could read him like a book. She just hadnt said anything because she was trying to respect his privacy. But now he was mentioning he would be going back and she wasn't even sure why.

Turning her head a little to look at her brother Ryan just studys him for a moment before nonchalantly inquiring.

"Why would you want to go back to Florda Eli? You have me, a home, food everything you could want. Not to mention a job easy working at one of the shops. I wouldn't mind if you stayed anyways."

Unspoken

2009-12-19T10:21:00.002-05:00

Bret rolls his eyes. "I didn't mean everyone but me knew you had a job. I meant any other husband with any brains will know that his wife has a second job!"

He takes a step closer to Charlotte, gesturing with his hands. "I don't care what color fingernail polish you got and I don't care what brand hotdogs you get from the store. But you'd think that if you went out and got a second job, you'd have the decency to tell me about it, instead of hiding it!"

He snatches the paper back from her. "At a nightclub! What were you thinking?!" His temper rises with his voice. "Of all places, you had to choose a nightclub! 'Hey, Bret, what's up?' 'Oh, nothing, just my pregnant wife is singing at a nightclub without my knowledge.'"

Throwing the paper back down, he starts to stalk away, then turns around again. "You didn't want to make me feel bad. So instead of talking to me about finances, you decide it would be easier just to hide a job from me. Were you ever going to tell me? Or were you just going to find out what a fool I really am to be so blind? I'm your husband, Charlotte! I have a right to know about these things. This isn't just something little that doesn't matter! It isn't the same as 'Oh by the way I bought a new dress.' We're talking about a job and our family's income."

Bret pauses, staring Charlotte in the eye. "And you deliberately hid that from me."

It hurt. It hurt deeply and Bret felt betrayed. If only she'd told him. If only she'd discussed it with him. If he'd known their finances were so bad when he was in the hospital, he would have figured something out with her, and he might not have minded her taking on a second job for a while. But at least he would have been in on it. At least he would have had a chance to give his opinion and help make the final decision. But instead, it had been hidden from him.

Spinning on his heel, he heads to the kitchen, limping as his leg throbs. Arriving to the tiled floor, his foot hooks a chair leg, cranking his knee. Already in enough pain, Bret lets out a howl. Too angry to care, his good leg swings around and gives the chair a swift kick. It flies away from the table, clattering on the floor and banging against the wall, breaking one of its legs.

Bret limps to the counter and grabs his car keys, then heads for the front door. Donning his leather jacket, he throws one last glare over his shoulder. "Don't wait up for me."

Sparky continues to walk, his pace much slower than normal on his evening rounds. He glances down at Faith, his eyes curious. "I got the time," he admits. "I'm not the greatest teacher in the world, but I could probably get you started at least."

He checks a gate then keeps on walking. "Takes time though. There's a difference between getting on a horse and going, and learning how to ride. If you want the first, I could throw you on a horse tomorrow. If you're interested in really riding though, I'm assuming you won't be around that long. You're going back to Thailand, aren't you?"

I know... the Agency scares me too. If it was just me, I wouldn't mind so much, but knowing they're after you too... I don't like that at all.

Rick heaves a deep sigh and turns back around to see Katie. "I know you don't like being in the dark, Katie, and I'm sorry. I just wanted to give you time to rest."

Jason looks to Katie, then back to Rick. "Tell us what you're planning and then we'll rest."

"Okay. I want you to blow something up for me."

Jason's eyebrows rise. "You what?"

"I want you to blow something up. Nothing big, but I don't want you spending your energy on that right now."

"Um... and why do you want me to do that?"

"I want to tape it. And I want to study how the item bursts. Before we can investigate your marks further, we need to understand how you work naturally. It's just something I want to see."

Jason eyes him suspiciously. "You don't think it's a brand, do you?"

Rick hesitates. "No. I know it seems to be, and I know the Agency shot you with something that caused the chain of events... but I don't think they knew you two would end up with a permanent mark. Just let it go for now, rest, and when you're both feeling better in a couple days, we'll continue the research."

Jason sighs, but gives in.
I'm too tired to care at this point. Let him do his thing. We'll find out what he means soon.
Thanks for hanging in there with me, Hero. I love you too.

Eli shuffles the deck of cards in his hands, leaning back in the living room chair. There was an awkward silence. There wasn't normally between him and his sister. But there was now, and he knew that she could tell there was something he wasn't saying. She was back on her feet, back to work, and he'd seen her race. Yet he still stayed. He had not gone back to Florida yet, and though he was living out of the same small duffel bag, he hadn't made mention to leaving either.

The tv was on, but Eli wasn't paying attention to it. Supper was undecided. They might do takeout Chinese. But for the moment, his mind was far away. He needed to tell her.

Glancing up, he catches Ryan's eye. The stare that looked back at him told him that she knew something was up but was respecting his privacy. "I suppose one of these days I better head back cross-country," he muses. "I think I've mooched off you long enough." A grin seeps out, showing that he knew Ryan didn't think of it that way. But there was still more... there was still more he wasn't saying.

Busy

2009-12-18T22:58:00.002-05:00

Charlotte looks at her husband and just blinks for a long moment stoping her folding of the cloths. She hadn't expected Bret to get this angry. Keep her own voice calm Charlotte just turns to him.

"Well lets see, I am not making you feel stupid at all, because I havent said anything that should. Next not everyone knows in town knows I have a second job. It was a very small night club that not many people went to And I didn't tell you because I didnt want you to feel bad."

She really was trying the best to do this with a pure heart for her family. Now, now it was blowing up in her face. Charlotte was more upset with herself than anything else.

"I was just trying to help out Bret. I wasnt trying to make you feel stupid or anything. I was...only trying to help."

Just listing to Sparky again Faith keeps her own hands in her pockets keeping them warm. Though it was cold she didnt mind to much it felt good, the cool air, the nice fresh smell.

"So you must like it here if you always come back right? I can see why. I haven't been here for very long and it already feels so peaceful. I'm really happy I got the chance to come here with Annie."

Giving a smile that was light up by the soft moonlight that was partly hidding behind the clouds. Mustering up the courage to ask.

"Maybe when your not busy, do you think you could teach me how to ride?"

How stupid

2009-12-18T22:39:00.003-05:00

Gage eyes Sapphire a moment before letting go of her hand and walking back into the kitchen. Scrounging in a little basket of change and odds and ends, he finds what he's looking for and returns. "Then here." He holds out a key. "I got two when I moved in. I've never used it."

"Me?" Sparky chuckles, his hands keeping warm in his jacket pockets. "You could have chosen a more interesting topic than that," he teases. But seeing Faith really was interested, he shrugs. "Haven't been here all my life, no. In Texas, yes, but here and there. Family history is a crazy one - too much to bore you with, though I imagine Annie's told you some. Known Rosetta for the better part of my life. And... settled here for the past year or so." He shrugs again, giving Faith a grin. "There's really not much to tell. I've kinda been a wanderer, but usually wind up back here."

Bret's eyes widen at Charlotte's explanation and he blinks as if having a hard time believing it. "You..." His eyebrows lower as he begins to frown. "You've been holding two jobs? Since I was in the hospital?"

Searching Charlotte's face, he lets out a little scoff. "Thanks for telling me. You knew I didn't know about it, and you what... just thought I didn't need to know?" He throws up his arms. "Didn't want me to worry about money? That's what I do, Charlotte - I'm the one with that responsibility. Why didn't you tell me?"

Shaking his head, it's very clear that he's not happy. "I'm probably the only fellow in town that has no idea his wife has been holding an extra job. How stupid do you like making me feel?"

Zip

2009-12-18T21:15:00.002-05:00

Giving a little chuckle about Gage doodling. She was sure if giving the opportunity he would do great at drawing. Getting an idea Sapphire tucks in the back of her mind to remember it for a little later when Christmas was closer.

Receiving Gage's little squeeze to her hand Sapphire's eyes scan the tree before glancing at Gage, and than around the room. Sipping her eggnog again.

"If you leave the door unlocked I might just bring more goodies. I think it would be safer if I just had a key. Its nice having someone to hang out with and share my time with."

Katie shakes her own head not understanding. She would rather know what was going to be going on now, that have to let it sit in her mind.

"Rick, tell us now or we wont get any rest. Not knowing what you have planned is not going to let us rest because we are gonna be worried even when you tell us not to be."

Letting out a sigh and leaning back in the bed again Katie's mind wonders all over the place. Wanting to know what would happend next, what would they do, and what would happen? So many questions that wernt being answered.

Well we having the resting place and understanding with each other finally, but no matter what, being on a medican or not we will always have to worry about the Agency as long as they know our powers exists. I think that's what scares me the most not our powers but The Agency!

Continuing to help Sparky Faith was having a great time. The small talk with him never left a dull moment, and learning new things about the horses was a blast. Faith felt so comfortable about Sparky and helping him she lost track of time.

"A walk in the crisp country air..."

Faith zippers up her coat a little higher pulling the collar around her neck to stay warm. Smiling at Sparky she gives a nod.

"..I am ready if you are."

Exiting the barn and walking for a few short moment in silent Faith decieds to strike up her own conversation.

"So, we talked about the horses and we talked a little about me. What about you? Have you always lived here?"

Taking the paper from Bret Charlotte scans it for a long moment before sitting it down on the counter. Looking up at Bret she searches his face for a moment before saying anything.

"Its just a letter telling me my last two shows I will be getting only half of what I normaly do because I am quieting."

Charlotte continues to fold the cloths she had just washed getting ready to put them away.

"Since I am getting later in the pregnancy and you will be able to go back to work soon, I wont need to work two jobs anymore. The only reason I took up the night club job was because I was trying to take less stress off you. I didn't want you to worry about money."

Charlotte's motives were pure as she eyes tryed to tell Bret that. She had dont this for both of them, and she did it for him. The last thing she wanted was for Brett to worry while he was trying to recover.

Nightclub

2009-12-18T19:25:00.003-05:00

Gage looks back at the tree and smirks. "Art. Right." He chuckles softly. "The closest I've ever come to art is doodling on a napkin." He pauses in thought. "'Course that could be 'cause I've never even had more than an ink pen in my hand." He could remember once a long time ago he'd seen a box of crayons and would have done just about anything just to have the blue one.

Hearing Sapphire's thank you, he keeps his eyes on the tree, but his hand gives hers a squeeze. Taking another sip from his eggnog, he smacks his lips again. "You keep bringing goodies like this, and I'll start leaving the door unlocked for you," he teases.

Rick nods his agreement with Katie. "I'm not sure about building up an immunity but we can try. My guess would be that if this is a kind of amplifier, if you'd been the one shot, you woulda sucked Jason dry, overwhelming yourself and putting him down pretty quick."

Jason sighs deeply, running a thumb over the tender marks on his palm. "You really think this was on purpose? I mean the mark? There's no substance that could burn a hand from the inside out, let alone no where else, and let alone in a definite pattern. That just doesn't make sense."

"Katie's right though," Jeff intercedes. "Intentional or not, nobody else is gonna have marks like these. If they didn't do it on purpose, they'll find out quick enough and they'll always be able to find you."

Jason doesn't even seem to be listening and he looks to Rick again. "What are you planning to try that I need to be stronger for?"

"Um..." Rick shakes his head. "Don't worry about it now. Just rest. Both of you."

Don't worry. Yeah. Right. We're sitting here half dead with alien brands on our hands and he says just rest.
Jason closes his eyes and lets his head sink back in his pillow.
I'm so tired of this. I thought we'd finally reached a resting place.

Rick exchanges a look with Jeff then turns to go back to his work.

Sparky looks down into Faith's eyes, a little smile turning up the corner of his mouth. The brim of his hat almost hid his gaze, but not quite. "If I minded, I wouldn't have asked, now would I?"

"Sparky?" Jade calls. "Sparky, are you in- Oh." Jade stops, seeing her uncle in the stall. "Hi. Have you seen Dan?"

Sparky steps away from Faith and shakes his head. "Not for a while."

Jade suddenly realizes that Sparky wasn't alone, and she looks at him with question.

Sparky nods to Faith. "This is a friend of Annie's. Her name is Faith. Faith, this is my niece, Jade."

Jade grins and gives a little wave. "Nice to meet you, I... wait.." Her eyes widen at Sparky. "Did you say Annie?"

"Yep. She's in the house. Gonna be here for a bit."

"Yay!" Jade squeals. "I'll have to go see her. But I have to find Dan first. Ohhh, I'll have to introduce him. I don't think he's ever met Annie before..." Her voice trails off as she keeps on heading down the barn aisle.

Sparky chuckles and shakes his head. "That girl's energy never ends." He coils up the leadrope and hands it back to Faith so she can help him some more. "She's been through a rough time lately though... I'm glad she's got Dan around for someone she can spend time with. My brother, her dad, doesn't approve but... Dan's not a bad guy."

Reaching around Faith, he closes the stall, latching it shut. "Okay... lets go get some more of these hungry brutes."

It doesn't take long to get the fifteen horses in the barn. In the meantime, others have been brought in from a different pasture. Most hay and grain is fed, getting chores done a little earlier as Sparky wished, so everyone could take their time with supper.

Hanging up the leadropes, Sparky sighs and sets his hands on his hips, looking around the barn. "Well... I need to take a quick walk around the place," he informs Faith. After spending several hours with her, talking just came as smooth as if he'd known her for years. "You're free to come along, but it's getting a bit chilly, so if you'd rather go back in the dining hall, I'm sure others are already getting ready for supper."

Bret hobbles from the kitchen into the living room, favoring his leg that was still quite sore. Confusion was on his face as he finds Charlotte. He holds up a sheet of paper after having gone through today's mail.

"A letter about a change in wages? For a nightclub?" He searches his wife's face. He'd thought she was working some strange hours at the caves, especially since there were not visitors this time of year, but he hadn't questioned her. Surely this was some mistake.

By the way..

2009-12-18T00:13:00.004-05:00

Following Sparky out to where the horses were Faith was a little nervous that she might not to something right, but did her best to hold some confidence in herself.

Not giving hesitation to letting Sparky helping her Faith lets him show her how to do everything. She wanted to learn and she thought it was neat to have Sparky taking the time to teach her. Feeling his hands on her Faith can't help the chill that ran up her arms. Sparky's touch was rough of a working man but soft at the same time.

"Ok so hold it like this right?"

Walking side by side with Sparky Faith lets out a small laugh as there small talk continues. She'd really warmed up well to him and didn't feel quiet as strange anymore.

Entering the barn once again and having Sparky put his arms over her shoulder Faith trys to pay attachen but cant help the tingling feeling she had felt before. It was strange to feel this way with someone she just met, but after spending most of the day with him Faith felt like she had known him all her life.

"Fifteen more, my goodness how many horses are at the ranch?"

Giving a small laugh Faith turns to look at Sparky flashing a smile. Not realizing just how close he was to her as Faith turns around she becomes face to face with him. Biting her lip just a little Faith looks into Sparky's eyes for a long moment.

"I'll keep helping you as long...as you don't mind. I'm having fun."

Listing to her father Katie gives a nervous laugh. His words were easily said, and she new they Agency had been defeated many times before but they always came back. It was an uncomfortable feeling.

I'm really not to scared, I just feel very uneasy that no matter what they are going to know who we are now.

Looking to her father, Rick, and than Jason Katie's eyes held a little worry. No matter what they did now the Agency would always know who they were. Not that they hid there ability from people, but they new how to make it so not the wrong people would know. But now that had changed, they were marked.

It's going to be ok J, as long as we stick together. We are stronger that way. I love you!

Looking back to Rick Katie nods, her eyes were opened more now and just tearing from the light but she could see. Her voice was still raspy but she could still talk, her head was spliting open but she could still think. If the Agency had been trying to take them out, they had failed and they wont continue to fail. Fear is what they wanted, and they couldn't give them that satisfaction.

"We need to figure out what they shot Jason with, and if they did the same to me what could happen. We need to be prepared and do all we can to build up an immunity and see why the did this to start with or what they hopped to achieve."

Sapphire can feel her lips curl up at Gage's comment. After a few moments her cheeks started to hurt but she just couldn't stop smiling. She was so happy that Gage liked the tree, and it came out even better than she had planned.

Holding her glass Sapphire comes up next to Gage slipping her hand into his once again. Why did that so often with Gage she wasnt sure, but it felt nice, and she liked it. She only hoped That Gage didn't mind ether.

"You really do a good job. I think this is one of the best looking tree's I have seen in a while. I think you have a talent for art."

Giving Gage a sidelong glance the smile was still on Sapphire's lips. His earlyer comment hadnt gone unnoticed, but she didnt want to make a big deal out of it eather and embarass him. So she would leave her words simple but with just as much meaning.

"Thanks by the way."

Demonstration

2009-12-17T22:14:00.002-05:00

Jason stares at their hands and swallows hard before looking back to Rick. "Was this something the Agency did on purpose? To mark us?"

"Well..." Rick thinks about it. "I guess I can't say no, but I have a few other theories. We can't be sure though until we can try something out and that can't happen until your strength is back. So for now, I don't want you to worry about it." He turns to Katie. "Or you."

Easier said than done. I don't like this one bit. First we almost die, now we've been branded. I don't like it at all.

Jeff gives Katie's arm a pat. "It'll be okay," he assures. "I'm sure you will figure this out. If it's the Agency's doing then you've nothing to worry because we've beaten them multiple times. And if it's not... you'll figure that out then too."

Gage's mouth curls up again. "Nobody has all the answers. But I bet you're wrong about your brother. He thinks pretty highly of you."

He takes another sip of eggnog, savoring the new flavor. It was so rich, but he wanted to finish what he had. Turning around, he wanders a couple feet and leans on the doorway, looking into the little living room. It still glowed blue from the tree. His eyes take it in, studying the details and seeming to get lost in thought for the longest time. "You were right," he finally comments quietly. He turns his head to see the lights reflecting in Sapphire's eyes and making her features soft in the glow. "It's pretty."

Sparky smiles and grabs two leadropes off a nearby hook. "Sure. Just stick close - they all want to come in at the same time."

Guiding Faith back out of the barn, he leads with confidence, quite the opposite of the blundering idiot he'd made of himself earlier. Arriving at the pasture, he takes hold of the first two horses at the gate and lets only them out, clipping the leadropes to their halters.

Pausing, he hands Faith one of the ropes. "Put one hand here..." He places her hand close to the halter. "And loop up the excess rope in your other hand like so." Taking her other hand, he loops the rope and curls her fingers around it. "That way if he pulls too much, you can let go and step back with one hand, but still have the rope."

Walking side by side, Sparky keeps a close eye on her and the gentle horse to make sure she was doing alright. Once they're back in the barn, he puts his own horse away then helps Faith with hers, showing her where the stall was. Standing behind her, he reaches over her shoulders to demonstrate how to unbuckle the halter and let it slide off the horse's face. Once free, the gelding turns to the hay that someone had left for his supper.

When the stall door is shut once more, Sparky gives Faith a smile. "It's that easy. We got about fifteen more out there. You wanna have a second round?"

Soft

2009-12-17T22:03:00.000-05:00

Hearing that Gage liked his eggnog Sapphire's smile grew. She was happy he liked it, and his first experience was a good one.

Seeing Gage reach out for her, Sapphire was confused but as he whips the remaining trace of the drink from her lip and see the grin on his face she can't help but laugh.

"Hey, maybe I was saving that for later?"

Sapphire's eyes sparkle as she again laughs at her own humor. Hopping Gage would understand she was joking, and wouldn't think she was mad with him.

Thinking for a long moment about Gage's question Sapphire takes another sip of her Eggnog just leaning against the counter. A thoughtful look on her face proved that she was thinking very hard and just might be stumped on the question Gage asked.

"You know, to be honest I have no idea why. I think its because its looked at as a holiday drink for one reason or another."

Sapphire laughs again.

"Even I don't have all the answers. If you ask my brother he'd say more often than not I don't."

Squinting to look at Jason and Rick Katie was just as confused as Jason. She didnt understand what Rick was getting at or why he wouldn't tell them ether. Kaite's mind was still trying to wake up and now Rick just seemed like he was going in circles.

Something just dosnt feel right J.

Squinting her eyes to see Jason's hand her own eyes widen just a little and than she squints them as her eyes still get use to the light.

I..don't understand what happened to you hand?

Looking at her own hand Katie study the pattern for a long moment. Not understanding what this meant or why it was even there. She could feel her heart rate speed up a little bit from the unknown of what happened. Looking up and back to Jason Katie was able to open her eyes just a little bit more.

I...don't know Jason but I think the Agency just branded us. It was your emotions, but they are the ones who forced it to happen. You didn't have any control over it. You dont have to be scared J...I'm here with you. We will get through this together ok?

Following Sparky inside Faith is taken in by the sights. She had seen a barn before just never one this big lined with horses. It was amazing to see such wonderful animals up close.

Finding a spot to sit on a bale of hay a ways away from where Sparky was throwing the other bales Faith listens intently to him. Hearing about the horses and how they took care of them was very interesting to Faith. Every word was fascinating that he spoke and his voice was so soft.

Once Sparky comes down again Faith stands and gives a smile. Hearing his comment about liking the small and just being in the barn Faith takes in a deep breath. One might of thought from first glance a place like this would not be for her, but once getting to know her a person would be surprised.

"I think I kind of like it too. My dad use to raise bulls, and they dont smell to differnt, its kind of reminds me of him well what I can remember anyways."

Seeing the movement out of the side of her eye Faith moves over to the stall and squats just a little. Reaching her hand out to let the mare sniff it before scratching her chin, and the side of her face.

"Her nose is so soft it tickles."

Hearing another voice call to Sparky Faith looks up and follows where it comes from. Seeing Clint she gives a little smile before continuing to pet the mare. She didn't want to put into anyone elses conversations or be in the way though so far it hadn't seemed like she was.

Hearing Sparky's offer to follow him Faith stands brushing her hand off and thinking for a moment.

"Can I help you bring them in?"

If you like

2009-12-17T17:45:00.002-05:00

Gage looks at his glass skeptically for a moment, raising it close to his face to smell the drink that was new to him. Seeing Sapphire taking a sip, he dares to do the same. The thickness and richness surprise him and he lifts his eyebrows, smacking his lips a little as he savors the flavor.

"That's pretty good. I... think I like it." A grin appears as he sees Sapphire's mustache. Reaching out with his thumb, he wipes it from her upper lip. "Why don't they have it year 'round?"

"Mmm... I'll be staying as long as it takes to know you're gonna be okay." Jeff winks at Katie. "I'll be around for a bit. They got a nice room here with a cot that suits me just fine."

Jason turns his head to try and see Katie, just trying to figure everything out. He still felt pretty tired, but most of his emotions were somewhere near confusion and frustration than anything else.

Rick moves about, making sure they're comfortable and helping both of them to the point where eventually they can sit up and talk a little easier. For the first time, Jason realizes that not only is his own hand bandaged, but Katie's opposite hand is bandaged as well. "Rick... we both hurt our hands?"

Rick nods and wanders slowly between the beds. He exchanges a look with Jeff, who knew about the strange injuries. "Yes... yes you did."

Something seems odd... I don't know why he won't just tell us what happened.
"Care to explain?"

Rick takes a deep breath, setting his hands in the pockets of his lab coat. "Well... it's kind of hard to explain. Maybe you know more than I do."

"I don't understand."

"Neither do I." Rick sits down on the edge of Jason's bed and takes the injured hand. Unwrapping the bandage, he then removes the gauze slowly. The burn was healing - it had been under his attention for over a week. But it was a bad enough burn that it would no doubt scar.

It still hurt a bit, and Jason spreads his fingers, bringing his hand back to stare at his palm.
What on earth... it's... I don't....
He looks up and turns his head to see Katie. She was still a bit blurry, but he finds her eyes then slowly reveals his palm. The spiral pattern was very clearly marked.

Before anyone can ask questions, Rick removes Katie's bandage as well. It was just as far along with healing, though he knew it was still pretty tender, so he's gentle and slow. But when he turns it over for Katie to see, it shows that it's a mirrored pattern, exactly the same as Jason's.

Jason's eyes widen a little.
How...

Rick clears his throat. "If you're looking for answers, I don't have them. The best I can come up with is that your emotions, Jason, were funneled to Katie at such a rate and with such force that it burned both of you. And the pattern... your guess is as good as mine."

What happened, Katie? I don't understand. I did this? But why? How did it form such a precise pattern? It's... scary.

Sparky chuckles. "Yeah... once you're around horses a few years, you kinda get used to these things. Most importantly is that the horses respect their handlers. After that, it's not so tough."

For a moment, he just looks at Faith, finally daring enough to really take in her features and study her face.

"Come on inside." Motioning for her to follow him, he continues leading the way into the barn. He points out a few of the horses, and introduces her to a few of he other guys. At one point, he has to climb up into the hayloft but he keeps up the small talk, speaking loudly so Faith can hear him down below.

"...so they get enough exercise during the day, then some of 'em we bring in again at night..." A hay bale comes flying down from the loft, landing with a thud a safe distance from Faith. Little bits of alfalfa scatter across the floor. "...'course when there's bad weather, we bring all of them in. Most of the stalls get filled up. Right now we've got a few more horses than we need, but Mick's been working training them to sell. Or should I say, I have the last week or so." Another bale comes down.

It only takes a few minutes for twenty bales to come down and Sparky descends the ladder. Adjusting his cowboy hat, he sets to work stacking the bales, easily throwing them up one on top of the other arranging them with skill. "Some days though, all we got time to do is clean stalls. It's worth it in the end though. Some people can't stand the work, smells or hassles but..."

Sparky pauses, setting his hands on his hips, breathing a little heavily from the work. "...I like it."

A little gray mare sticks her head over her stall door and smells the air in Faith's direction. Sparky grins. "And this little girl here..." He moves over to scratch the mare's cheek lovingly. "She's one of the sweetest one's we've got. She learns quick and she's patient." Reaching in his pocket, he pulls out half a carrot he'd been saving and lets the mare crunch happily on it.

"Sparky, you wanna finish before or after supper tonight?" Clint was done in the shop for the day and had started helping out in the barn.

"Uh... doesn't matter. It's supposed to be pretty cold after dark tonight though, so lets plan on trying to get it done before supper."

"Alright. Oh, and Luke wondered about the south pasture. Fence is down again."

"I'll get Dan on it tomorrow." Sparky heaves a sigh as he sets his hands on his hips and looks around the barn. He glances back to Faith, hoping he wasn't making her feel in the way. For the last week, he'd been the one the hands had come to for direction, so it got a little busy around chore time. "I gotta bring in a few of the horses now. You can keep tagging along if you want."

Saved

2009-12-17T13:42:00.003-05:00

"Well, the kind I have is not spiked. But its still really good. Come on lets try some."

Taking Gage's hand Sapphire cross the living room floor and enters the kitchen. Pulling two glass from the cupboard and placing them in the counter. Moving to the side she opens the fridge and pulls out the carton of eggnog.

"I tried making this homemade once. It...didn't turn out to well. Now I stick with just buying it."

Sapphire gives a laugh and a smile as she pours the eggnog into the cups. Than taking a bottle cinnamon she sprinkles just a little on top.

Holding the glass out to Gage Sapphire smiles. Taking a sip of her own she closes her eyes for a moment before opening them again and pulling the glass from her mouth. On her upper lip is a white mustache of eggnog.

"I wish they sold this all year around."

Trying to give a small smile it hurt to much to hold it Katie gently takes her dad's hand with her good hand.

"I'm sorry I scared you. Its good to see you again though. How long will you be staying?"

Katie hoped he would be staying for a little while so when she was able to be up and moving around maybe she could show her around a little bit. It would be nice to introduce her to Thirteen and Ryder as well.

Walking with Sparky Faith was quiet taking in the sights of the ranch. It seemed nice here, and very peaceful. It was everything Annie had described, and even a little more.

What happens in the barn happens fast and Faith dosnt have time to react herself. The horse was coming right for her. But feeling the jerk from Sparky and than seeing him grab the horse by the rope.

Faith cant help but just stair at Sparky. Maybe he wasnt so clumsy after all. The way he handled the horse was fascinating to Faith. She couldnt help but watch a smile on her face. Sparky had an air about him that Faith could already see and almost feel. He was farm, yet gentil and well respected.

Giving a little laugh and nodding to Sparky Faith brush herself off a little. She was thankful for his concern.

"Yes, I'm ok, thank you. You handled that horse really well. Than again I guess that happens when you around them all the time."

Flashing a smile Faith push a lose strand of hair behind her ear to get it out of her face as she looked up at Sparky.

As Annie listens to Jim talk she could feel a sorrow that grew inside of her for her twin. Mick had been doing so well and to just see him fall again hurt. So much piled up at once, even the strongest of people could only take so much.

"How is Rosetta holding up?"

Continuing to listen Annie gives a nod here and there letting Jim know she was still listing. Hearing about her nephew hurt even more. To see someone so young start down the wrong path already.

"Sparky has always been the stable one huh? Being able to keep things together while everything was falling apart. I guess thats why we always considered him the leader."

Though everything was crazy right now and alot had gone wrong Annie was still glad she had picked now to come. If more than anything her family needed her around too. Not to mention even to her this was home as well. She had missed everyone here.

Hearing about Clint and Wendy Annie's face lights up. In one of the few emails she had gotten she rememebered being told she was a great aunt.

"Oh I cant wait to see the little one. Its good to know that Clint and Wendy are doing well. They always looked so cute together, I bet they look even better with the baby by there side."

Runaway

2009-12-17T12:55:00.003-05:00

Jim watches Sparky and Faith leave, and once he's alone with Annie, he gestures for her to take a seat. Sighing deeply, he tries to figure out what words to choose. But he knew better than to beat around the bush with Annie too. "Mick's back at the McClain Ranch."

He looks at Annie's eyes, his grim expression proof that he wasn't kidding. "A while back, Jade showed up here... I think she's had some trouble at home, and last I knew, she was going to try and stay here instead of going off to the school that her mother and grandmother wanted. Mick was okay at that point, but then Jade got a call that Dylan had gone missing. Jill wanted Mick out of it, but when he found out, he flipped."

Jim shrugs lamely. "He got upset when neither Jill nor the police would let him be involved - he believed the Agency was the culprit for the whole thing, and... so... he hit the bottle. Came home drunk - I wasn't involved, but I guess Sparky found him, brought him home and the thanks he got was a punch in the mouth. After that, Mick seemed to get a handle on himself, though he started trying to juggle stuff here, his wanting to find Dylan and then on top of all that, Jade's got herself one of the newer farm hands here and Mick doesn't approve. Add all that up and... kaplooy."

Leaning back in the chair, Jim tries to sort it all out without drawing it out. The Elite wound up finding Dylan doped up with a couple other druggies - looked like he'd simply run off and hadn't been abducted by the Agency or anything. Mick found out and had the team take him to the McClain's. At the same time, apparently he admitted to Rosetta that after his one binge, alcohol had taken hold again. It all happened in about a week's time, but surprisingly, that's all it took for him to admit he needed help. So... all that to conclude with Dylan and Mick are both at the McClain Ranch. Dylan for drugs, Mick for alcohol. They've been there about a week and a half now. We've gotten a couple calls from Brenda, who has given Rosetta some encouragement that Mick is doing well. Dylan is coming down off the drugs and it sounds like the worst might be over, but he's got an attitude problem still. And here...."

He takes another deep breath. "Jade's still here for now. She and Dan are an item - I don't know if it'll last after Mick gets back, but we'll see. And Rosetta... is hanging in there. Becky and I took care of BJ for a while, but he's back with Rosetta now."

Thinking a moment, Jim glances to the window. "And I gotta tell you... I give credit to one man for holding everything together around here, and that's Sparky. He's helped Rosetta out a ton, he's taken charge of areas Mick was maintaining and he's been managing the barn and all the work. Some of that Rosetta would normally pick up, but Sparky hasn't wanted to burden her any more than necessary so he's really bent over backwards to keep things running. Hence my comment about it having been a rough couple weeks. He's been handling it okay, but his mind has been wandering a bit. And that... is that."

He stops, then thinks of something else. "Oh yeah... and I don't know if you got word that Wes is being deployed in a few weeks. He's been called back in for duty." A wry grin escapes. "When it rains, it pours. But we've had our good, too. Clint and Wendy have pulled through and are doing really well handling their new family. BJ's shooting up like a weed. Just been a lot to handle lately."

Sparky walks outside with Faith and chuckles. "If you stick around long enough, don't worry, you'll be put to work. But we're not slave-drivers. Tonight you're a guest of Annie so you can relax."

Approaching the barn, a ruckus can be heard down one end, and suddenly Remington appears with a broken rope hanging from his halter. Bolting through the barn, his goal is the outdoors, no matter what was in his way.

Seeing the powerful horse coming towards them, Sparky doesn't think before acting. Taking Faith by the arms, he spins her around and pushes her out of harm's way before whirling back around just as Remington passes. Reflexes kick in and Sparky aims for the flying rope. Planting his heels, there's no way he can outpower the horse, but he gives just enough of a jerk for Remington's head to snap back. The horse skids to a stop, snorting and breathing heavily.

Sparky glares at the animal before looking down at the rope burn on his palm. "I will be so glad when your master is home," he growls.

Remington shakes his head and perks his ears forward as if he were as innocent as anything.

"Yeah, sure... like you didn't do anything wrong. What do you think this is?" Sparky holds up the frayed end of the rope. "I take it it broke itself."

Remington snorts again and ambles a step closer to Sparky, putting his head down to but his arm. Sparky smirks and shakes his head. "Ya big brute. Look what you did to my hand." Sighing, he coils up the rope, looking into the barn. "Whoever lost their horse, get out here and take care of him!"

One of the hands comes jogging out with an apology before retrieving the horse and leading him back inside. Sparky shakes his head, then remembers Faith. Turning back around, his eyes are a little wide. "Sorry about that. You okay?"

"Me?" Jeff laughs at Katie's question. "You're the one who's been asleep for a week and a half, not me. I think you need to worry about how you are instead."

He smiles and squeezes her hand. "I'm better now that you're awake. You gotta cut out scaring your dad like this."

"Eggnog..." Gage thinks then shakes his head. "Some of the guys used to get it but they'd spike it with who knows what. They never offered me any so I never drank any."

He looks to the kitchen with curiosity. "If you say it's good though... I'm willing to try it."

Show me

2009-12-17T11:55:00.002-05:00

Faith gives a smile to Jim as her cheeks turn a little red. Having the attchen on her was always a strange feeling as she was the quiet one in a family of four.

"Its very pretty there. I was lucky to have had parents who when over there themselves for missionary work and feel in love with it and never left."

Small talk continued and Annie was happy that her family took well to Faith. Not that she thought they wouldn't but sometimes its was just hard bringing a new person into the picture. It was good that Faith seemed to be taking to this place as well. Being somewhere new could be scary but Faith seemed to have no problem with it other than her shy nature.

Hearing that Jade was here makes Annie's heart jump. It would be nice to see her for the holiday, but than seeing the look on Jim and Sparky's face her excitement soon fades. Something was wrong she could feel it.

Looking to Jim worry shown in Annie's eyes. How much had she missed while she was gone. Looking to Faith and giving a nod Annie smiles.

"You can go with him if you want Faith. He's a good guy."

Looking to Jim, than Sparky and than Annie Faith could see that this was a family matter that needed to be talked about. She didnt want to be in the way or impose on that one bit. Sparky seemed nice from what little he has said, only a bit clumsy.

"Sure, I'd love to have a look around and see where everything is."

Walking twords the door with Sparky Faith gives him a smile as her eyes sparkle just a little.

"I'll even help you work if you show me what to do. If I am going to be stay for a while, I'd rather earn my keep than just take your hospitality for free."

Sheepish

2009-12-17T08:52:00.006-05:00

"Ahh, Thailand." Jim smiles. "I wondered where that pretty accent came from." He looks back to his sister. "Glad you both could come."

Sparky continues wiping the floor, his ears tuned into the conversation, though he didn't participate.

After a few minutes of light smalltalk about the mission field in Thailand, Jim glances down to the floor where Sparky still was. "Sparky...." No response. "Brother...." Sparky still didn't hear. "Tyler!"

Sparky blinks and looks up at him. "What?!"

Jim smirks at him. "You've cleaned that spot five times now."

Sparky looks down at the very clean spot on the floor. "Oh." Clearing his throat, he stands up, going back to the kitchen to rinse out the towel.

Jim rolls his eyes and finishes the rest of his own coffee, throwing a wink at Annie. "Sparky's got a lot on his mind. It's.... been a rough couple of weeks."

"I'm heading out to the barn," Sparky interrupts, grabbing his jacket off the back of his chair as he returns. He gives Annie's shoulder a pat. "Good to have you back. If I don't see you before, I'll see you at supper. Be sure you look around for Jade - she's here somewhere."

Jim lifts his eyebrows and gives his head a little shake. Sparky's own face shows surprise then he winces a little. "Oh yeah." Annie didn't know Jade was there or that Mick was gone. "Um..."

Jim looks to Annie with seriousness. "I need to talk to you. It's about Mick." He glances to Faith then back to his sister. "Maybe Faith would like Sparky to show her around while we talk?"

Sparky's just straightening the collar on his jacket and he stops."Uh... yeah... yeah, sure." He dares to look to Faith, trying to get past his embarrassment over the whole mess he'd made with a sheepish smile. "I'd be happy to, if you don't mind me working along the way. I promise not to knock you into a haystack or anything."

Something New

2009-12-16T23:36:00.003-05:00

Giving a small laugh Faith looks to Jim and gives a soft shy smile. At least Jim was trying to have a conversation with her. From the way Annie talked about her family Faith felt like she already new them anyways. A thick Thia accent comes out with her as she spoke, but her English was amazing.

"I don't think there is such thing as having to much fun."

Rolling her eyes at her brothers refuse for help or even to put something cold on his head. Watching her brother move about the kitchen and wet the cloth to clean up the rest of the mess. Under her breath mumbaling only loud enough so Sparky could hear her.

"I dont think it was me who shook you up."

Giving a small grin Annie joins Faith at the table where Jeff, and Sparky had been. Folding her hands on the table.

Thinking for a long moment about his question it was almost like she wouldnt answer but finally she did.

"Probley for a while now, a month or three, maybe longer. The mission trip we were on in
Thailand which is where Faith is from I might add is done. Not sure when the next one will start up until we get the call."

Just sitting quietly at the table Faith just takes in everything around her, listing to what was spoken. Not being able to help her eyes from roaming to Sparky every no and than admiring his features, and his good looks. Only to look away quickly when he looked up at her.

Putting the tree together with Gage was loads of fun. It reminded her of when she was little and Scott would help her with the tree. He use to love it so much, now having someone else to help once again was nice. Seeing the smile on his face was nice, and the laughs that came from his lips seemed to fill Sapphire's heart.

Gage was changing everyday, becoming more independent and learning more things about the world around him. Sapphire was happy to be part of that.

Standing back with Gage Sapphire sets her hands on her hips and looks at the tree. It was one of the best looking trees she had ever seen. It almost seemed so perfect. The way the lights lit up the branches, and reflected off the ornaments.

"Now this has to be one of the best looking trees I ever saw. You did a great job Gage, it looks so pretty."

Turning a little to look at him Sapphire's eyes sparkle just a little as the light from the tree bounces off them. She really was enjoying her time spent with Gage. It was nice to have someone she felt comfortable around.

"I got something I wanted you to try. Its called Eggnog and it only comes around this season. Have you ever had it?"

Opening her eyes just a little to try and see Jeff Katie could only get them to go so far before having to shut them again. But a small smile forms on her face, she was happy he was there.

In a horse whisper Katie manages to get a few words out to try and carry on a conversation with her father.

"Hey Dad, How are you feeling?"

Fun

2009-12-16T23:12:00.002-05:00

Jim, tries hard not to laugh at the whole thing, and after Faith sits down, he takes his seat again. Giving her another smile, he offers conversation. "As you can see, we have a lot of fun around here." He chuckles. "Too much sometimes."

Sparky dumps his handful of coffee soaked ceramic pieces into the garbage then goes to the sink to wash his hands. Having Annie come in after him, he rolls his eyes. "I'm fine," he states flatly. Eying the bag of frozen peas, he smirks. "I am so not putting that on my head."

Grabbing a dish towel and getting it wet with a little soap, he rings it out. "My head is fine, but the floor needs to be cleaned. I was really looking forward to that coffee too." Taking his wet fingers, he flicks drops of water in Annie's direction, trying to overcome his embarrassment with teasing her. "You see what happens when you get me all shook up?"

Bravely heading back into the dining area, cloth in hand, he aims for the table again. Getting on his hands and knees, his eyes stay glued to his task. The heat was still in his face and he could kick himself. But he knew that stewing over the whole thing would do no good. He was sure he must have looked pretty ridiculous to everyone else, so if they thought it was funny, he needed to find the humor in it too.

Wiping up any leftover coffee and collecting a few more small pieces of the broken mug, only a glance or two are stolen in Faith's direction. His words though are aimed at Annie. "So, Miss Surprise, how long are you and your friend planning to stay?"

Rick purses his lips at Katie's question. "Well... I think you just took the brunt of Jason's emotions, that's what happened. Your hand will be fine - its healing nicely." He avoids the subject for now... he didn't want to overload them so soon after waking up. Offering a smile, he stands and goes back to the counter to get some mild pain medication prepared for them both. Seeing Jeff in the doorway, he gives a little nod.

Jeff wanders in slowly, realizing that Katie had not seen him yet. Easing down in the chair, he reaches over to take her unbandaged hand. "Hey, kiddo," he greets softly.

Gage really wanted to know what all it was that Sapphire had put in the fridge, but he withholds his questions for now. Seeing her take the lights and give directions, he grins. "Okay. I think I can handle that."

Going to the tree, he helps with the lights, stringing them through the branches and smiling when something goofy would happen with the string getting stuck on a limb or the tree tilting this way and that. The balls were fun to put on, and Gage's true nature shown through as he stood back and had to make sure that all of the ornaments were completely balanced in position - nothing could be out of place or crooked.

Placing the star on top as the final step, he looks at the decoration as a whole, so quite for such a long time, almost as if he'd fallen into his own little world again. But without warning, he goes and pulls the shade on the window, then turns the lights off in the room. The result was a gorgeous little tree, shining with his blue lights in the corner. Folding his arms, a new smile emerges. "That was fun." He'd never made anything pretty just to be pretty before... he wouldn't have thought it would make himself feel that good.

You never told me...

2009-12-16T20:23:00.002-05:00

With the help of Rick Katie sits up a little. Trying to open her eyes the light was so bright it hurt.

Who every though the light could hurt this much.

Taking a sip of the cool water Katie gives a could her stomach seeming to do flip flops as the water its it. Not actully use to having anything in it again that was pretty normal.

I am going to muster all the strength I got to slap you if you keep saying your sorry over this. Its not like you could help it.

Katie sends her warm emotions Jason's way to let him know she wasnt upset and she didn't blame him. This was just something else that happened, like being on a mission and getting shot. No one wanted it to happen or had control over it.

Trying to open her eyes again Katie squints up at Rick, quiet for a moment letting the saliva in her mouth work Kaite finally opens her mouth to let the words come out, but only a horse whisper it was formed.

"My...throat, its really hard to talk, my head dosnt feel the greatest ether."

Katie wingles the fingers on her hand now realizing it stung pretty bad. She count remember hurting her hand at all.

"Hand, it hurts...what...happened?"

Giving a smile and entering the house Sapphire makes her way to the kitchen. Starting to take things out of the bags and put them into the fridge.

"Well I am happy you didnt start. I really wanted to help you."

Finishing up in the kitchen Sapphire takes her jacket and puts it over one of the chairs. Making her way over to Gage and holding up the blue lights.

"First we want to put the lights on first. I'll stand on one side if you like, and you can stand on the other. We can just go back and forth till its all covered, than we put on the balls we got and the little snowmen and than last we put the star on the top of the tree."

Giving a sly smile to her brother Annie was happy to see him suprised. Its what she had wanted, and she was glad it was received well.

"Well if I had told you I was coming than it wouldn't have been a Christmas surprised."

Reaching out and putting her brother into a strong hug Annie really had missed her family while she was away and couldnt be more than happy to be back.

"Give you a heart attack? Your to suborn for that."

Pulling away and seeing Jim looking at her friend Annie felt silly for a moment in the excitment forgetting she had come alone. Stepping to the side to have a clear path for Jim and Sparky Annie smiles.

"Jim, Sparky this is Faith Reynolds, Faith this is my brother Jim and Sparky."

Giving a little wave and a shy smile Faith words come out soft.

"Nice to meet you both."

The events that happen next cause Faith and Annie's eyes to go wide. Sparky fumbling, the glass breaking, Jim's teasing. It was very easy to see Sparky was flustered.

Bringing a hand to her mouth Faith couldn't help the small chuckle that escaped softly. She couldn't help but feel sorry for Annie's brother and could feel her own heat coming to her face. But here gave a sparkle as she watched Sparky as he headed to the kitchen.

"You told me you had brothers but you never told me that one of the was a totally good looking."

Trying her best not to laugh at her brother Annie steps forward, but before she can say anything Sparky was already making his retreat. She couldnt help but feel bad for her brother. It wasnt often he got flustered but knowing her brother so well Annie could see the look in his eye, and it was cute but surprised her at the same time.

Hearing Faith's comment to her Annie just looks at her for a moment and blinks. It seemed they were both attracted to each other right away.

"Well...I think all my brothers are good looking, I just didnt think about saying anything."

Shaking her head and finally letting her laugh escape Annie looks to Faith again.

"Make yourself comfortable I promise no one will bite. I'm going to go make sure Sparky is ok. I'll be back."

As Annie walks away Faith makes her way over to the table setting her bag down and pulling out a chair. Sitting down she keeps her hands in her lap just looking around the dinning hall. It was obvious she was a little nervous, and felt awkward being here not really knowing anyone. Faith new she would be ok in a day or two after she had been here a while just right now it was some place new.

Following her brother into the kitchen Annie goes to the fridge and grabs a bag of peas for Sparky's head.

"You took quite a bump there, are you ok Sparky?"