Request

Con chuckles and returns the hug, sending Katie away with a “Goodnight, sleep well.” He watches her go just to make sure she gets to her bunk alright, then pulls up his jacket collar and heads down the other trail to the cabin for the night.

A lightning bolt streaks across the sky, followed but such a loud clap of thunder that it shakes the ranch. Rain comes down in sheets – a stark difference to the day before, putting just a little damper on the spirits that were so high last evening.

It takes a while for people to stream into the mess hall, most sleeping a little later after getting to bed so late.

Clint dashes in out of the rain, hanging up his jacket as he enters, which makes a puddle on the floor. He goes immediately to get some coffee and settles down at one of the tables to wake up before heading to Wes’ shop.

The women join in the kitchen as usual to prepare breakfast. Sparky and Mick come in together, talking about the case, and Mick grabs a chair near the fireplace, glancing around for Rosetta. Cindy comes in a little later, looking tired, though she helps in the kitchen. Austin joins the group as well, fairly quiet as he has been lately, but joining in the discussions, and bringing up some ideas for more research.

Jason throws on a clean set of clothes and grabs his cane instead of crutches again. Grabbing his jacket, he heads out into the rain, rolling his eyes. They’d had so much rain lately – would it ever stop?
He makes it to the mess hall and grabs a seat at a table apart from Austin after getting some orange juice. Yawning, he gives a little wave to his mom, who smiles her greeting.

Jade enters soon after, shaking the water out of her hair, and scanning the room. Seeing Jason, she smiles and approaches, just a little shyly. Sitting down across from him, she immediately searches his face for reassurance that last night hadn’t just been an act in the heat of the moment. His grin and nudge with his foot under the table puts her mind to ease, and her smile widens. “Good morning. Sleep well?”

“Yeah.” Jason nods. “You?”

“Mm-hmm.” Jade’s face reddens slightly. “I was gonna ask you about a picnic today, but…” She giggles. “Looks like we’ll have to postpone that.”

Jason chuckles. “I doubt a picnic in the rain would be that much fun.”



Con trudges through the rain, his boots sloshing on the muddy trail. His baseball cap is pulled down low providing a small shield against the pelting water. His jacket pulled tight around him, he finally makes it to the mess hall porch, though he doesn’t enter right away. Instead, he looks in the window, scanning the faces. Spotting Jason, he enters, making a beeline in his direction. His face is hard, showing a strange tenseness. “Jason…”

Jason looks up, surprised at Con’s serious tone. “Yeah?”

“Talk to you a minute?”

“Sure.”

Con motions for the door. “Outside.”

Jason raises his eyebrows and glances at Jade. “I’ll be back.” Rising, he limps behind Con until they’re outside on the porch.

The driving rain against the roof causes their voices to be raised slightly in order to hear each other clearly, and Con looks sternly at Jason out from under the brim of his dripping hat. “Got a call from Reese this morning.”

Jason straightens a little. “Oh?”

“Yeah. He wondered what decisions had been made so he could get the right names filed and get a report to Carter.”

Jason quirks an eyebrow, hoping this wasn’t about what he thought it was. “What are you talking about?”

“You know good and well what I’m talking about,” Con answers tersely. “You never told anybody about that request from Carter, and you’ve been sitting on it for almost three weeks! I can’t believe you haven’t talked to Katie about it!”

Jason’s face grows hot as his anger begins to rise. “I have my reasons.”

“It was a direct request!” Con raises his voice further. “What reasons could you possibly have?”

“Look, it wouldn’t work, okay?” Jason throws up his arm in disgust. “I was going to call Reese today and tell him to cancel it out.”

“You what?!” A roll of thunder seems to agree with the lightning that flashes in Con’s eyes.

“You heard me!” Jason scowls at him. “It’s not a good idea. It won’t work, and I don’t think Carter was wise in making this request. And because it was asked of me, I have the right to turn it down.”

“Jason, how could you say he wasn’t wise? It’s a perfect setup and you know it! Why would you turn it down?”

Jason rolls his eyes, his words coming out before he thinks. “Do you really think it’s as good idea for me to have a partner who has a crush on me? It would be a disaster!”

Con’s eyes widen. “A crush…is that what you’re calling it?”

“Well what would you call it?” Jason shakes his head. “Katie’s too involved. Carter may think we’d make a good team, but we just wouldn’t. Not as long as she’s got ideas about me that will never happen.”

Con lets his mouth hang open, speechless for several moments. “Are you out of your mind?!” he finally states, almost shouting. He studies Jason’s face, giving into a slight scoff, his volume lowering. “You’re serious aren’t you? You really are blind to what’s going on around you. I thought you were smarter than that.”

Jason glares at him. “And what’s that supposed to mean?”

“Oh, you’ll find out…trust me.” Con frowns. “But let me tell you this – You have a chance to have Katie as your ‘right hand man’ and you’d be crazy to turn that down. There’s only one other person I know who has a sixth sense like her, and it’s you. If you’re going to be gallivanting around on cases, you need someone to watch your back, and who else fits the job better? If you accept this, you two would be elected as part of the Elite down at TJY – isn’t that what you want?” He shakes his head. “And if you deny Katie this opportunity – this chance that she’s been wanting – just because you’re too prideful to work with her, then you’re not the man I thought you were.”

Another rumble of thunder shakes the porch, and a driving wind blows the rain in on the two men, but it goes unnoticed as the silent staredown continues.

Friend

*Katie stands and smile. She was happy Con had come. He was a good friend.* "Sure I can. I am sure how horrable I look right now with my makeup running all over the place will keep anyone at bay." *Making there way back through the wood Katie is silent for a long while. As they hit the out skirts of the Ranch Katie stops.* " I think I can make it the rest of the way back from here." *As Katie starts to walk away she stops and turns back looking at Con. Running over to him she give him a big bear hug.* "Thank you Con. Your a good friend. Austin is lucky to have you as a bodyguard." *Katie turns and walks away to her bunk. Once there she jumps in the shower than heads to bed.*

Escort

“Oh, Katie.” Con lets out a long breath. “Jason’s a good guy, and he’s got a lot going for him. No one could blame you for the way you feel.” He thinks about her question and shakes his head. “How did I deal with Haley? Not easily, I’ll say that, and yes…it hurt like the dickens to see her with David. But…I valued her friendship enough to one, let her be happy, and two, to remain a friend. At least I still got to see her.” He turns his head to look at Katie. “But that’s me…and you’re your own person. …It’ll be alright though…I can promise that. No matter what happens, the pain will subside.” He rises to his feet and nods towards the trail. “Now I’m ready to hit the hay, but I’m not leaving you out here by yourself, so…will you escort me back to the ranch?”

Hurt

*Katie looks up as Con sits down. Taking in all he says. Who would of though gruf Con had a soft side. Katie looks out at the lake than back to Con.* "How....how did you do that? Dident it hurt to see her with her Boyfriend?" *Katie sighs.* "I just, feel so small. I dont mean to....i just do. It feels like something is breaking inside of me. Its feels so much differnt from the last boyfriend I had though that was more horrable. It just feels differnt, and hurts more. Maybe cuz Jason was the first half way deacent guy I new." *Katie falls quiet just looking out at the fireflys dancing on the lake.*

Story

Con can just hear Katie’s words, and his compassion takes over as he listens. A feeling is stirred that hasn’t been evoked in many years, causing him to empathize. Part of him believes he should leave Katie in peace, and part of him is urged to comfort her. But would could he possibly say?

Shaking his head and sighing, he slowly approaches, his boots crunching on the cold ground to announce his presence. He sinks down next to Katie, leaving a comfortable space between them. “You know…” His speaks more gently than before, a rare softness showing through his gruff exterior. “When I was about your age, I had a friend…Haley.” He smiles at the memory. “I’d known her since high school and we were friends…good friends. One time I almost asked her on a date, but faltered at the last minute.” He pauses, remembering the instance. “At any rate, it wasn’t long after that, she found herself a boyfriend, and for the first time I realized that I’d always wanted to be more than friends, but…I was stuck in the background.” He pauses, staring out at the moonlit lake. “I had to accept that Haley and I would just be friends…just friends. And…I finally settled that if I couldn’t have her for my own, at least I could have her friendship, and that was better than nothing.” He gives a little laugh. “I haven’t thought of that for a long time, let alone spoke of it.”

A dark night

*As Katie sits and sobs. They become softer, but still are strong. Katie new this would happen, she new Jasons and Jade liked eachother. Still she had hoped. and now she was paying for it. Talking a loud Katie scolds herself.* " Why did I see the signs. I new this would happen when Jason started hang out with Jade more and I saw less of him. Why am I so saprised." *Katie whipes her face and relizes she smuged her makeup. Looking down at her dress she laughs to herself.* " I even tryed dressing up." *Katie lets air through her lips.* " I look like a dolled up fool." *Katie leans back on the bench, and just listens to the night as she gets lost in deep thought.*

*Rosetta smiles as Mick's hand brushes her face.* " I had a wonderful time too. Thank you. " *Rosetta gives Micks free hand a squeeze and hangs on as she makes her way up the porch. Finally leting go as she nears the door. Before disapearing Rosetta flashes Mick her killer smile leting him know her night was perfect and she couldent be happyer.
After Rosetta is inside and the door he shut her smiles widens even more as she thinks about Mick's kiss. Rosetta starts to hum as she goes into the bathroom to wash her face and geting ready for bed.*

Following

Jade feels like she’s gliding as she heads to the guest bunk, a smile pasted on her face, and the butterflies still fresh in her stomach.

Mick walks Rosetta to her house, his hand wrapped around hers. No words needs to be said, and he lets the silence surround them. While walking, he spies Jade coming from Jason’s She looked awfully happy, and he can only imagine what had transpired just seconds before. He grins a little, though a feeling of melancholy invades the moment His daughter was growing up into a young woman, no longer the little girl he’d held in his arms. Though this picture was a stark reminder, a gentle happiness was there - at least she was happy, in a good environment, and had a good head on her shoulders to keep her on the right path. And Jason seemed to be alright - Jade could do a lot worse.
Mick stops at Rosetta’s door and turns to her “I had a good time tonight.” His hand brushes her face. “See you in the morning.”

Jason flops down on his bed and closes his eyes, letting out a long sigh. He kicks off his shoes and just lies in the dark, his mind working overtime. His heart beats a little faster as he replays his time with Jade. He’d never had a relationship like that with anyone before, and it was a new sensation of bliss and contentment. Something deep down stirs - a warning trying to seep through, but he blocks it out. He doesn’t want to think about anything else right now, other than how happy he feels.
He begins to doze, but suddenly his eyes fly open as a strange feeling of almost panic comes over him. What on earth…? He glances around the room…nothing was wrong…he didn’t sense danger… Sitting up, he tries to pinpoint the feeling. It was almost a form of misery. Had he drifted to sleep and had a nightmare that he now didn’t remember? Katie. Jason frowns, confused. Katie. She’d never entered his mind like this before…what was wrong with him?
Shaking his head, he rises to undress and get back in bed for the night. A rotten feeling forms in his gut, but for once he ignores it. Maybe he does know what it is, and maybe there are things he is not thinking through, but he had had too good of a night tonight to dwell on them. He would think about it later when he wanted to.

Con aims for the trail, leaving behind those who are still parting for the night. As he strolls though, movement catches his eye, and he glances back up the driveway. He sees Jason and Jade on the bunk porch, and he pauses, lifting an eyebrow. He’s hidden in the shadows, but has a clear view, and can’t help his surprise at seeing the passionate exchange. He shakes his head and turns to go, but then realizes a third figure is within sight. Katie? Con’s heart sinks a little. He knows good and well that something like this would go over like a lead balloon.
He instinctively continues to watch and sees Katie head away by herself. Concern sets in. Con doesn’t like the idea of anyone being out in the woods alone this late at night.
Ignoring Jason and Jade, Con slips through the shadows to quietly tail Katie at a distance. He doesn’t want to invade her privacy, and he’d never want to embarrass her, but through the weeks, and especially after tonight, if anyone asked, he’d be quick to state that Katie had become like a little sister to him, and the last thing he wanted now was to see her in any trouble or danger. Something about this whole scene just didn’t set right with him, and a sense of duty to protect kicks in.
He follows Katie until she stops at the lake, and he quietly leans up against a tree, keeping his eye on the surroundings as he assumes the stance he’s been trained to have.

Heartbroken

*Rosetta felt so comfey, so safe in Mick's arms. All seemed right with the world at the moment. As Rosetta stairs back into Mick's eyes her heart starts to race. As Mick kiss Rosetta and she kiss back her world begins to spin and everything in the room seems like it got 10 x brighter. She can feel a huge smile on her face as her cheeks go red. She has waited so long for this moment, but it was worth the wait. For a moment Rosetta cant move or speak. Finally her musters a small squeek.* "Ya, lets get going."

*Like so many nights in the last week Wes walks with Cindy to her bunk.* "I had a great night Cindy. Thank you." *Wes bows a tad.* " I will see you in the Am." *Turning Wes makes his way to his own bunk. A smile on his face as he sleeps.*

*As Wendy stands on her porch she leans over the railing.* " Sleep well my handsome Prince." *Wendy turns and disapears into her bunk.*

*As Katie pulls back into the ranch with Rosetta and Mick she gets out of the car. Streaching for a moment, she see SParky and Mel's car knowing Jason much be back too. Katie hasent talked to him most of the night and though she was jealouse she wanted to be civil Jason was her friend after all. Making her way to Jason's bunk she stops at the sound of voices. Katie looks up just in time to see Jason and Jade kiss for a long while. Feeling something new boil inside of her, she stands not sure what to think. Tears well up in her eyes once again as her heart is breaking. Jason wasent her boyfriend why was this hurting so much. Why did she feel so angry. Thinking it best to leave she turns and walks away, not aiming for her bunk though. Sobing softly still she heads for the lake. Once there she sits down on the bench. She had been so stupid, why has she dressed up so much and even bothered going to the dance and making a foool of herself.It hadent changed anything. What did Jade have that she dident. Katie had tryed her best all night not to let it bother her and to keep her emotions in check on a friends level with Jason. But what she has seen tonight at Jason bunk, No matter what anyone said still hurt.*

*As Damien drops Annie off at her bunk he smiles.* " I had a great night Annie. Thank you."
*Annie beams at Damien.* "I had a great time too."
*Damien leans over and gives Annie a hug.* "Goonight Annie. I will see you again soon."
*Annie returns the hug.* "GoodNight." *Annie gets out of the truck and heads inside.*
*Damien decends the driveway and heads for home a smile on his face the whole way.*

Goodnight

Con watches Katie closely, his observing eyes catching her body language, and picking up on her subtle emotional strain. He says nothing, though, and simply keeps up a string of light conversation until the song is over and the crowd begins to make their way outside.

Cindy is speechless as Wes speaks. Her heart races and she can feel the heat rising to her face. A deeper relationship with Wes? Could she? Did he really care that much? She searches his eyes, needing truth…needing to find that solid truth that would tell her he wasn’t just stringing her along.
As he kisses her forehead and pulls her back close, she allows him to, but still remains quiet, her mind reeling. “I’ll think about it,” she manages softly, and rests her head on his shoulder until the song ends.


Clint can’t help just a little disappointment as the last song comes to an end. He was comfortable…content….happy. But everything comes to an end. He pulls himself away from Wendy, offering her his hand to walk her to the door. “Thank you, Wendy. I had a blast tonight.”


Mick grins as he holds Rosetta close, for once pushing all worries aside and throwing all caution into the wind. It felt good to open his heart again…it felt good to be here with Rosetta… and the future looked just a little brighter. As the song draws to an end, he stops swaying and lowers his gaze to Rosetta. He keeps her close, but lifts her chin with a gentle hand, caressing her cheek. The volume of the crowd around them increase as people get ready to leave, the chatter getting louder. But the noise seems far away.
As Mick looks into Rosetta’s eyes, he sees more than he did before…he feels more than he’s allowed himself to feel in a long time. Taking both hands to cradle Rosetta’s face, he tips his head to plant a tender kiss on her lips, lingering for just a moment. Drawing away, a soft smile creases his face and he motions to the door. “Shall we go?”

Everyone from the ranch eventually finds each other to pile back into the vehicles, exhausted, but happy, and the ride home is quiet with thoughts lingering on the last few hours.

Once back, they begin to disperse, all accepting the fact that it is too late to stay up any longer, though some remain in the mess hall for just a few minutes to wind down.

Clint walks Wendy to her bunk, and gives her hand a kiss, though daring nothing more. “Goodnight, Princess.”

Luke drops Angel off at her place, giving her a kiss goodnight, and thanking her for a fun evening.


Jason exits the car with Jade and sighs deeply, taking in the crisp night air. Jade comes up beside him, linking her arm in his. “Walk you to your bunk?”

Jason grins at her. “Okay.”

They make their way slowly to his bunk and once on the porch, they pause. Jason has his hand on the doorknob, but hesitates, and gazes down on Jade’s face instead. She’d been so good to him the last few weeks…he’d come to appreciate her company more and more, and tonight had topped it all off. A sense of warmth enters his veins as he studies her eyes.

Jade’s pulse quickens as he stares at her, feeling like a little child all over again. His hand is holding hers, and it feels rough and warm, sending a shiver down her spine.

Jason can feel Jade’s nervousness, and offers her a slight grin, knowing good and well what’s going through her mind. Giving in to his own impulsiveness, he leans down, drawing her in close.

Jade feels herself rise up on her tiptoes as she wraps her arms around Jason’s neck to receive his kiss, and doesn’t resist letting it linger for several moments as she’s enveloped in warmth.

Pulling himself away, Jason gives Jade’s cheek a playful brush with his hand. “Goodnight.”

Jade can barely find her voice. “Night.”

A grin on his face, Jason turns to go into his bunk.

Jade steps off the porch, feeling light as a feather as she heads to her own bunk.

The Last Dance

*Katie giggles and smiles as Her and Con dance. For just alittle while Katie forgets about Jason and Jade dancing only steps away. and has a fantastic time. Katie laughs as she trys to keep up with Con. Doing a pritty good job.*

*Wes leaves for a moment and than returns with some punch for Cindy and himself. Her cheeks are a soft glow and he cant help but smile.*

*Annie and Damien sit down with Wes and Cindy laughing.*
Damien: "You guys having a great time?"
Wes: "Ya, this is pritty fun you guys?"
Damien: "I sure am." *Damien looks to Annie and smiles.*
*Annie nods.*

*Rosetta smiles at Mick and herself seem to dance forever.* " We sure did."

*Wendy cant help but enjoy Clint's company so much. Laughing and Joking. High pitch laughs coming every now and than. Wendy looks to the 2 empty chairs across from them.* "Hey we better keep an eye on those chairs. They might attack." *Wendy smiles and laughs again.*

*Angel joins in with Luke in playing the game. Having a great old time. Enjoying the company of Luke, and the fellowship with the others.*

*As the last slow song starts to play Katie laughs and looks at Con.* "Ok I think I cut us off here." *Katie giggles. As her and Con go and sit down Katie is content talking to him. As she looks out onto the dance floor she spots Jason and Jade. Turning away she talks with Con more though she cant help but glance at them every once and a while. Trying to keep her emotions, and jealoucy hiddon.*

*As the announcment starts to play for the slow song Wes stands and offers his hand to Cindy.* " This is the last song of the night we have to dance to it." *Wes and Cindy sway in silence for a long while. After a bit Wes keeps swaying with Cindy but pulls her away alittle looking her in the eyes.* "Cindy, I've been holding off to say this cuz I wanted to make sure, and I dident want to make a mistake and hurt you. Your a wonderful woman and I love spending my time with you. As the summer draws near it pains me to think of you going back home. I want to keep in touch with you Cindy. Your wonderful and I would like to spend more time with you. Geting to know you. That is if you will let a lowly gradge worker into your life. Just think about it. You dont have to awnser me now." *Wes smiles and gives Cindy's forhead a kiss not wanting to over step his boundrys. Drawing her in close he wraps his arms around her as they dance.*

*Wendy and Clint make there way to the dance floor. Swaying to the music Wendy rests her head on Clint's shoulder. Butterflys flutter in her tummy. Her hands are a slight bit cold as she is nervouse and excited. She has never been this close to a guy before. But the feeling of happyness and having someone there was nice.*

*As Mick and Rosetta stay on the dance floor Rosetta smiles, her heart content. Whispering she says.* " Thank you Mick. For eveything and for being here with me. I had a wonderful time with you. " *Rosetta leans her head on Mick shoulder and wraps her arms around Mick tight not wanting this moment to end. Wish it would go on forever.*

Dancing

Con raises his eyebrows in surprise as Katie approaches him, but he grins and gives a little bow. He knows good and well that she would have much rather have been with a certain young man tonight, and he isn’t going to spoil her evening further by declining. “I was bored anyway.” He winks at her. “Besides that, how could I say no to the prettiest young lady here?” He takes her hand and spins her out onto the floor, immediately proving that he knows what he’s doing.

Jade and Jason are at a table by themselves, laughing and chatting, and interacting with the others around them, enjoying each others company.

Cindy sighs with content, the warmth in the building bringing a glow to her cheeks. She nods at Wes. “Actually, some punch sounds awfully good right about now.” She smiles at him. “Thank you.”

Mick can’t help but enjoy having Rosetta in his arms as they dance. He grins at the memories that are brought up. “Yeah…we had fun, didn’t we?”

Clint finds a small table for Wendy and him to sit at, and gets them both something to drink as they talk and laugh.

Sparky and Mel spend most of their time on the dance floor until someone from church spots Sparky and asks him to join the band to play guitar. He resists at first, but Mel encourages him to do it, so he finally gives in and finds a spot on stage with the other guys, receiving a round of applause from the gang. Mel finds a seat by herself, but is quite content to watch Sparky.

Luke and Angel dance for a while until his legs grow tired and they wind up with a small group from church at a table where a game is underway.


The room is full of gaiety as thoughts of the case and turmoil are forgotten, if only for a few hours. But all too soon, the evening starts to draw to a close with the announcement of the last song of the night. Most couples are too tired to dance more, but still the floor remains active with those who are unwilling to give up just yet. The lights are dimmed and a slow song begins to play.


Jade glances to Jason and nods to the floor. “Want to?”

“Like I’m capable.”

Jade gives him a sly grin. “You should be able to handle a dance at this speed. Come on.”

Jason resists. “You said you have two left feet.”

Jade giggles. “So? We can’t leave this evening without having danced at all.” She stands and holds out her hand, sticking out her lower lip. “Pleeease?”

Chuckling, Jason rises with an exaggerated sigh. “Alright. For you.” He leaves his cane and limps gingerly onto the floor where he and Jade begin to sway slowly to the music. She offers herself as some support though after a few minutes, winds up resting her head against his chest instead, lost in the blissful moment.

FUN!

*Wes smiles and holds out his arm to Cindy escorting her to the car.*

*Wendy blushes slightly.* "Thank you, oh great defender. You look pritty sharp yourself."

*Angel smiles up at Luke.* " I dont care how your dressed. As long as your with me. To me you look good in anything." *Angel leans into Luke's arms.*

*Rosetta smiles and takes Mick's hand admiring him.* "You look very handsome tonight." *Rosetta's eyes sparkle.*

*As Jason walks in Katie see him. He did indeed look handsome tonight. She is going to go up to him but Jade walks to him first. Katie lets out a sigh and heads out to the car riding with Rosetta and Mick. All the way there she is very quiet.*

*After arriving everyone goes there sepreat ways. Music blasts, people laugh, dance. There is food, balloons, contests and much more. The time seems to fly as the night goes on befor anyone knows it a few hours go by. Katie keeps to herself on one side of the room. Watching everyone have a fun time she lets out a long sigh.*

*Damien and Annie finally arrive to the social. And move right into dancing.*

*As alittle more time goes by Katie looks across the room and see Con standing aganst the wall alone. Geting tired of stading there herself alone Katie walks over to Con and smiles.* "Hey Con, Want to dance?" *Katie points to the dance floor than looks back at Con seeing the look in his eyes.* "As friend silly. Come on lets have some fun to."

*Rosetta laugh after laugh as her and Mick along with the other talk, and dance a little bit. Leaning in so Mick can hear her over the music better she says.* "This sure does remind me of old times. Remember the dance we had at the W/K Ranch?"

*Wendy dances with Clint enjoying the music, and his arms around her. She feel ontop of the world. After the song ends Wendy motions to the tabe asking to sit for a bit.*

*Wes leans over to Cindy.* "Would you anything to drink or eat?"

The Social

Cindy blushes at Wes, and accepts the corsage just a bit awkwardly. She looks up at him with an almost giddy smile. It’s been so long since she’s done something like this. “Thank you.”

Clint lets out a low whistle as Wendy enters the mess hall. Rosalynn gives his arm a backhanded slap and rolls her eyes, but he just smirks at her, and goes to Wendy with a wide smile. “Good evening, princess.” He bows and takes her hand to plant a kiss on it. “You look lovely.”

Luke grins at Angel, putting an arm around her waist. “Yep…I’m glad we can keep doing this kind of thing once in a while so we don’t get burned out.” He glances down at her, admiration showing in his eyes. “I don’t think I’m dressed up enough to go with a pretty lady like you.”

Mick comes in the opposite door just as Rosetta enters the mess hall. He sees her across the room, and can’t help the smile that makes its way to his face. He just stands for a moment and cocks his head, engraving that picture in his mind. There was no doubt – he had the prettiest date tonight and was proud of it.
He goes across the room to Rosetta, taking off his hat, and offering her his smile, his eyes sparkling. “Shall we?” He holds out his hand.

Jason limps into the mess hall and lets the door shut behind him. He looks around the room to see who all is there, taking note of those who appear not to be going and those that do.

Jade looks up from her seat and for a moment just watches Jason. If he didn’t make others stop and stare, no one would, that was for sure. Finally she gets up and goes to him, flashing him a smile. “Hey, handsome.”

He grins. “You don’t look so bad yourself.”

“Wow, that’s a great compliment.”

Jason holds his grin, mischief twinkling in his eyes. “You look great and don’t let anyone tell you otherwise.”

Jade’s cheeks turn crimson, but she remains composed. She nods to his cane. “Decided to go in style, did we?”

Jason rolls his eyes. “I feel like an old man.”

“I think it makes you look distinguished.” Jade takes his free hand in hers. “Sparky and Mel said we could ride with them.”

“Great.” Jason’s just ready to turn to go back outside when he notices Katie across the room. He almost does a double-take, and blinks, his eyebrows rising. He just about catches her eye, but is distracted by Jade opening the door, and shifts his focus back to leaving. He can’t help throwing a glance over his shoulder though, wondering if Katie has found someone to go with or not.


Within minutes, everyone is piling into vehicles and they’re on their way. Eric, Jeff and Rosalynn stay back at the ranch, throwing in a movie and popping popcorn. Austin has opted to go back to the lookout early, while Con dresses up a bit nice to go along with the gang in order to keep an eye on things.

It’s not long until the small caravan of vehicles is pulling into the parking lot in town behind the large building. Already there are many cars there, and music and laugher can be heard inside.

Ready

*Time comes, days go. Katie and Jason patched the akwardness but still drift slightly apart as Jason spends more time with Jade. Katies heart acks as she see them both together but trys to maintain her composure.*

*Finally the day of the Social is here. Everyone is busy running around.*

*Katie puts the last ceurl in her hair. What a pain it was. It had goten so long and its not often she wore it down. Runing her hand down her knee langth black dress she gets the wrinkles out. Checking her makup one last time. Becky had been nice enough to help her put it on. Katie sighs as she heads out of the bathroom. Why was she doing this. She never dressed up. and why was she feeling nervouse. Its not like she had anyone to go with. Leting out a long sigh she exits her bunk and heads to the mess hall.*

*Wes enters the mess hall his hands behind his back. He has on his Black dress coat on with a white rose pined to it. He has his black dress pants, cowboy hat, and black cowboy boots on. Walking over to Cindy he gives a small bow. Taking his hands from behind his back he holds out a corsash for Cindy's wrist.* "Mi Lady." *Gently Wes takes it out of the box and puts it around Cindy's wrist beaming.*

*Rosetta looks in the mirror one last time than look at the clock on her dresser relizing she was late. Sliping on her high heel shoes she grabs her black lace shall to go over her black and bloodred spagetti strap ball dress. Walking very carfuly but trying to hurry across the lawn Rosetta wobbles alittle not use to heals. Finally she enters and looks around for Mick*

*Wendy is the next to enter in her long Snow white dress with a black ribbon the goes around the wast and down the back. Her hair has a black ribbon holding it back and small white flowers line her hair. As she enters she looks at Clint and beams walksing over to him.*

*Angel enters the mess hall through the back door her baby blue dress on and her hair pulled up. Walking up next to Luke she looks around the room at everyone, and her eyes on the kids.* "How they remind me of us at there age."

Getting ready

Jason smiles and gestures with his head to the mess hall. “Alright. Come on.”

The day progresses slowly and the tension in the air begins to dissolve on its own. No more arguments ensue, helping with the situation, though Jason and Austin do not converse.

Time rolls on. Research continues, but no headway is made. Some are discouraged, though there is reassurance in the fact that the Agency is lying dormant for the time being.

Jason takes several trips back and forth to the hospital for therapy, Clint continues to help Wes, and routines proceed as normal.

Austin and Jason avoid discussion about the recent episode, both drifting further apart, but neither feeling strong enough one way or the other to do anything about it.

The weeks come and go, those who go to church, continued to be encouraged that there will be an end to this trial. Work persists, and weather begins to warm slightly. Jade and Jason do more together, winding up together on several picnics and an outing to town.

Before anyone knows it, the day for the winter social has arrived, and spirits are lifted in anticipation of a fun evening. Deciding to gather in the mess hall to figure out who’s riding with who before they leave, everyone who’s going disperses to get ready.

By five o’clock, several are already ready to go and waiting in the mess hall. Cindy stands near the kitchen and smoothes out her simple blue dress with long skirt, feeling strangely nervous for some reason. Clint hangs around one of the tables as Rosalynn points out things he should straighten or change, giving him a bad time.

Jade sits near the door, her green dress accenting her features, her hair pulled back with strands loose around her face.

Jason gives himself one last look in the mirror and turns to head for the door. Thinking for a moment, he passes by his crutches and takes the cane instead that JT has suggested he use. Easier on the arms, and helping him use his knee a little more, at least it wouldn’t be as much of a pain as crutches. With his collard shirt tucked into his black jeans, his good boots and his hair gelled just so, he figures he can’t be any more ready than this, and he heads for the mess hall.

Mick tucks in his shirt and buckles his belt, grabbing his cowboy hat. All in black, he heads out the door. It’s been a long time since he’s looked forward to something like this, and he anticipates a fun night with everyone…and Rosetta.

Sure

*Wendy throws her hands up to look like guns and clicks her toung.* "I'm looking forwork to it."

*Katie nods at Jason and smiles understanding what he is saying.* "Ya, I'd like that. Let me grab my laptop." *Katie goes back inside and gets her packpack and laptop.* "Ok I am set."

Invite

Clint rolls his eyes at Wendy. “Very funny.” He nods at Wes. “Yeah, I’m right behind you.” He glances back at Wendy, throwing her a smirk. “And I’ll catch YOU later.”

Jason takes a deep breath as he hears Katie approach the door, and he adopts a casual stance. When she opens the door, his jaw tightens as the tension immediately rears its head again. But he manages to look her in the eye, conveying that he’s willing to get past this hitch in the road. No matter the awkwardness, or how hard it was, Rosetta was right. If he and Katie truly were friends, then this was just something they'd have to deal with. “Hey. I got some files I was going over a while back, and a second pair of eyes is always helpful. Thought maybe you’d want to go over them with me.” His invitation comes across as nothing more than a friendly gesture, though is extended in the form of a truce.

Unexspected

*Wendy giggles at Clint.* "First day on your new feet. Might want my mom to look at that before it gets to bad." *Wendy pokes Clint in the ribs.*

*Wes stands and smiles as Cindy and Jason talk. Making his way into the kitchen he smiles at the 2 kids.* "Hey Killer, dont let the girl make you look bad." *Wes laughs* "I'm gonna be in the garage. Just come in when ever. Its not to busy of a day." *Wes smiles again shaking his head droping his glass into the sink.*

*Katie almost falls back in her chair as there is a knock on the door startling her. She wasent exspecting anyone to come. Geting up with a big cladder she goes to the door and looks out the window. Seeing is is Jason she rests her forhead on the door. After a long moment she opens the door trying to giving a small smile.* "Hey!"

Attempt

Clint is knocked off balance and hits the doorway with his already-sore shoulder. “Ah!” He smirks at Wendy, reaching out to give her hair a teasing pull. “Good morning to you too.” He offers a teasing grin.


Jason looks at Rosetta thoughtfully as she leaves. She’s said some very encouraging things that he wanted to take to heart… People didn’t normally talk to him like that, and it really made him stop and think.

Cindy sees Rosetta talking with Jason, then when she leaves, she feels prompted to go talk to her son. They needed to clear the air one way or the other, no matter how awkward it was. She gives Wes a glance, then rises from her chair to go to Jason.

Jason looks up as his mother approaches and he sighs deeply, giving her a glance of apology as she sits down across from him. “Morning.”

Cindy forces a smile. “Good morning…” She cocks her head, and just studies Jason for several moments. “I’m sorry, Jason…”

“No,” he cuts her off. “You have nothing to be sorry for. I should have made you worry like I did. It was my fault.”

Cindy shakes her head. “You did what you thought was right, and for that, I’m proud of you. Yes, I was worried to death, and I don’t like experiencing that, but…what happened happened, and we just need to move on.”

Jason opens his mouth to argue more, but shuts it, knowing his mother is trying to get past the whole thing. He offers a grin. “Okay.”

She reaches over to give his hand a loving squeeze. “I’m going to go get some breakfast.”

“Alright. I’ll get something later.” Once again, Jason is by himself. He can see Austin out of the corner of his eye, but doesn’t feel much like approaching him yet. It was one thing talking to his mom and Rosetta…it was entirely different confronting his grandfather, who surely wasn’t as forgiving as the others.

“Hey you.” Jade smiles and plops down beside Jason, offering him a glass of orange juice. “Thought you might be able to use this.”

Glad for the change in pace and a reason to quit thinking about the heavier topics, Jason grins at Jade. “Thanks.”

“You’re welcome.” Jade’s smile remains as she looks at him. “I hope things are alright.” She scrunches up her nose. “Guess everyone got a little stirred up around here, huh.”

“You could say that.” Jason chuckles. “Sorry you had to witness all of that.”

“Eh…” Jade shrugs. “I’ve got a family too, ya know. Life isn’t perfect, and if someone thinks it is, they haven’t lived.” She pauses, glancing down. “How’s the leg?”

“Fair.” Jason takes a swig of orange juice. “Just gonna take a while to heal I guess.”

“Do you have to go to therapy?”

“I was supposed to go two days ago,” Jason admits. “I’ll have to reschedule. But yes, I should be just a few times. Most what I have to do though, I can do myself. It’s just gonna take time to see how much mobility I regain.”

Jade cocks her head, feeling a bit sorry for him. “I’m sure it’ll heal out alright.”

Jason appreciates the encouragement, and can’t help his grin as he takes another sip of juice. “We’ll see. I won’t be in much dancing shape for this social coming up though.”

Jade giggles, giving his arm a kidding pat. “I don’t care. I’ve got two left feet anyway.”

Jason chuckles. “Then I guess we make the perfect couple, don’t we?”

A slight blush comes to Jade’s cheeks and she laughs. “Maybe we do.” She sighs and looks to the kitchen. “Well, I promised Becky I’d help with dishes. I’ll catch you later.”

“Yeah…” Jason watches her leave, and polishes off his orange juice with a couple pain killers. Thinking several minutes in quiet, he looks towards the tables that are set up with computers, and spies a file folder with records he’d been going through. Making up his mind, he rises, deciding to avoid Austin for now. He’d rather straighten out another mess first before tackling that one.

Leaving the mess hall, he swings his way towards Katie’s bunk, rolling his eyes at himself, and just hoping he doesn’t make things worse. But he’s got to do something before the tension kills somebody. He arrives at her door and knocks.

the letter

*Rosetta smiles at Jason.* "Never regret doing something you think it right. More often than not it is the right path. Your a good guy Jason." *Rosetta pats his shoulder and walks out of the mess hall to get changed and do some work.*

*Katie slowly walks to her bunk. Grabing some new clothing she hops in the shower. After geting out she comes out of the bathroom and sits down in her chair. Opening her laptop she starts to fiddle around not wanting to go back to the mess hall yet. As she surfs the web her mind wanders to her father email. Maybe it was time to reply. Opening her email up she write a short letter not sure what to say:*

Dear Jay,
I got your email and I dont really know how to reply to you. You have missed so many years of my life I am not that little girl anymore. Maybe someday you can get to know me again. I forgive you.

Katie

*As Katie finish the email she shuts her laptop and leans back in her chair. Her mind a million miles away.*

*Wendy see Clint enter and runs into kitchen hip bumping him.* "Good Morning."

Apology Accepted

Mick chuckles and manages to get himself up off the couch to stretch again. “If a crick in the neck is the worst thing, then I’m doing alright.” He gives Rosetta’s shoulder a light pat. “I gotta go clean up and change clothes. I’ll be back for breakfast.”

Cindy accepts Wes’ hug, mustering up as much of a smile as she can. She looks down at her coffee, just letting Wes arm remain around her.

Clint finally makes it to the mess hall, and aims for the kitchen, rubbing his shoulder gingerly.



Jason stares at Katie, unsure how to react, or what to say, if anything. He opens his mouth to rebuke her apology – she had done nothing wrong. But she keeps talking, so he remains silent.
Her words stung just a little for some reason…they had an impact he hadn’t expected. What did Katie really want? Did their friendship really mean that much to her too? She was obviously willing to face him, apologize whether she needed to or not, and risk rejection in order to salvage what they had. That couldn’t go ignored. But what should he do? Should he just forget about what had happened, for her sake? Or did he need to say something too?

Katie doesn’t give him a chance to do either though as she walks away. He just sits for a moment, feeling a new sensation…no one had ever said they’d be proud to call him their friend before… He glances over his shoulder as Katie leaves, wondering if they really can get past this bump in the road.

Rosetta’s hand on his shoulder startles him and he turns around quickly to look up at her. Her words were the last thing he expected to hear, and he knows the look on his face must show some surprise.
As Rosetta continues to speak, he furrows his brow a little, trying to understand the implications of what was being said. Had he really had such an impact on Katie? Was that a good thing or a bad thing? Rosetta implied it was good. But was it his own fault that he and Katie had gotten to this point now? Should he have held back sooner so things didn’t get this far? Apparently Rosetta viewed Katie’s change as positive, not negative. He hadn’t ever thought he could affect anyone…he’d always just been a loner….

When Rosetta concludes with her own apology, Jason shoves aside the thoughts of Katie for the moment. He purses his lips in thought, giving a slight nod. “The situation probably could have been handled better, and I chose a route that stirred things up royally – for that I’m the one who should apologize. I realize now you were worried sick, and that wasn’t right of me to put you in that position.” He shrugs. “I’m glad I left…and I’m glad Katie was with me. If I could do it all over again, I don’t know if I’d do it differently or not, but I’m sorry what I did caused people to worry.”

Sorry's

*Rosetta sits up and smiles trying to fix her hair but it wont work unless a brush it taken to it.* "Well I guess thats a good think to know in case we ever get lost out in the cold." *Rosetta grins at Mick.* "Good morning sleepy head. Sorry about the neck. I guess I was more tired than I first thought to not have woke till this morning." *Rosettas mind is foggy for a bit but than relives the events from yesterday evening.*

*Wes makes his way to the mess hall. Seeing Cindy siting alone he walks twords her and sits like his has found himself doing so much latly. Reaching over Wes gives Cindy a hug without saying anything. No words are needed as he can tell how Cindy feels. Hope remained in Wes' heart that today everyone could patch things up and go on with things.*

*Katie lifts her head as Jason enters the room. Quickly she looks at him but than looks away. Katie replys everything in her mind that happend the night before. Why had she kissed Jason. She was more of a clear thinker than that. Did she want to be more than friend with Jason, yes. That answer was simple, but she dident want to jeprodize there friendship and she did just that. Would there friendship ever be the same or did the action she took lastnight change thins permintly. Katie hoped in her heart of hearts this wouldent change now, but if they did she dident blame Jason. Take the last sip of her coffee she stands and takes her mug to the kitchen puting it into the sink. Sighing she decieds she probley should go take a shower and get dressed. Slowly she walks out of the kitchen heading for the door. Stoping she gives a quick glance over to Jason's way and decieds its probley best to say something to him. Walking over she pulls a chair out and sits down. Still keeping her eyes down on the table.* "Jason, I just wanted to say I'm sorry. I shouldent have kissed you lastnight. It was wrong of me and I hope you can forgive me and I hope this dosent change anything." *Katie looks up and searches Jason's eyes for answers.* " Our friendship means so much to me, and I dont want to lose it. I thank you foreverything and dont take blame for anything. Your a great person and dont you ever let anyone tell you any differnt. I am so proude to call you my friend." *Katie gives a small smile and stands again.* " I guess I should go take a shower now and start my day. I'll catch you alittle later." *Katie makes her way out of the mess hall and to her bunk.*

*Rosetta watches Katie leave the mess hall. Turning to Mick she nods and smiles signaling she will be right back. Geting up and walking over to Jason, Rosetta places a hand on his shoulder and looks twords the closeing door.* " You really make her happy and feel good you know that. She values your friendship more than anything and would do anything for you as a friend. Thats what true friend are. They stick together through anything and are always there just a call away. One of the trates of making a true friendship is being able to endure though anything. The strange, happy, sad, awakward, and upseting times. " *Rosetta finally looks down at Jason.* " I havent seen her smile so much in a long time. Its good to see her happy, and its nice to know she has a friend who would do anything for her. Thank you Jason. For being Katie's hope, that there are still good people out there. I'm also sorry I dident trust you more. You guys are adults now, and need to make your own desitions. I guess I was just so worryed I forgot that. So again I am sorry."

Feelings

Jeff clangs around in the kitchen, as one of the first ones up, and hungry for pancakes. Becky and Mel soon join him to help out, deciding a nice breakfast for everyone would be good, especially after the prior evening’s tension.

Clint’s alarm goes off, wailing in his ear. Having been in a deep sleep, he reacts with a jolt, whipping his weight to the side to get within reach of his clock. With eyes barely open, the distance to the edge of the bed wasn’t even calculated, and in the next second, his shoulder is slamming into the nightstand, and he’s in a heap on the floor. Blinking, he groans at himself and scoots up into a sitting position to rub the sleep from his eyes. His covers had been pulled down with him, and he’d knocked the lamp off his nightstand as he’d hit. What a great way to start of the day.
He rises, throwing his bed not even close to back together again, and stumbles to the shower. “First chairs now my own bed,” he grumbles, though is glad there was no witness to this one.

A pan is dropped with a clatter in the kitchen, and Mick finally opens his eyes. Taking a moment to get his bearings, he lifts his head and winces at his sore neck. He yawns and starts to stretch before remembering that he’s not alone. Sensing Rosetta is awake as well, a wry grin spreads across his face and he playfully roughs up Rosetta’s hair. “You make a pretty good hot brick, ya know that?”

Austin and Con enter the mess hall together as usual, taking up their now-regular seats at the near table. Austin glances around, not seeing Jason yet. He’d thought a lot last night…and though still disagreeing with Jason, his temper had cooled. A hope had risen in him that they would be able to work things out today, and perhaps a little bit of guilt lingered for things said the evening before.

Cindy takes a chair down by the fireplace, chilled by the crisp morning. The dark circles under her eyes prove that she’d gained little sleep, but her feeling of helplessness for the situation remains.



Jason sits on the edge of his bed, showered and fully dressed. A deep sigh makes its way to the surface. Couldn’t there ever be just one thing to deal with instead of a zillion at the same time? Pictures of the night before continue to flash in his mind. Austin…Rosetta…his mother…Katie… He shakes his head at himself, feeling at fault for more things than one. Though fighting it, his mind takes him back to Katie’s bunk. He should have known better…he shouldn’t have allowed Katie to kiss him like she had. A voice deep down reminds him that there was a reason he hadn’t exactly resisted her affection.

He rolls his eyes and stands, going for his crutches. It was just a bad idea to get involved like that. Katie liked him too much, and she’d soon realize that it had just been a fleeting lapse in judgment when she let her emotions get the best of her. Her feelings for him would not last, and because of that, he should not encourage her. He needed to be more careful, no matter how hard it was. Yet he also knew that it required a delicate hand - otherwise he’d be jeopardizing their friendship, and he had to admit to himself that it was one thing he didn’t want to lose. Katie was the first real friend he'd ever had, and he recognized her loyalty. But how could he maintain that friendship if he turned her away from him?

Hobbling to the door, Jason’s eye catches the papers from Carter, sitting on the table. A knot forms in his stomach. He was supposed to talk to Katie about it. But it would just make things worse at this point, wouldn't it? It would just complicate things even more. He couldn’t bring it up now...

Slowly he makes his way to the mess hall, dreading any confrontations, though knowing that it’s necessary to get this day over with. Upon entering, his eyes sweep the room. He sees his mother…Con…Austin…. Katie. His stomach lurches, and for the first time, he can't meet her eye. Instead, he grabs a seat at an empty table, not even sure how to proceed, or what will happen next. It's all wrong...how could things have fallen apart like this? Who would be the first to make a move? He had two completely different issues being shoved down his throat, and he was choking on both. Where were the answers he needed?

Morning again!

*Wendy nods to Clint.* "Ok...I'll keep these chairs in line till I head off to bed." *Wendy smiles and gives Clint a hug goodnight. After a few more hours look at stuff on the computer Wendy heads to bed herself.*

*Wes walks with Cindy to her bunk than makes his way to his own.*

*After Jason leave Katie stands in the dark for a long while. Mumbaling to herself.* "Well that was stupid of me." *Katie rolls her eyes to herself and than glances at her flowers. No matter how awkword it was Katie cant help but smile. Changing into her pj's Katie hops into bed. For a long while she just stairs up at the cealing. Finally falling asleep.*

*As Night drifts on its quiet at the ranch. Finally morning comes to chanse away the shadows. As the sun comes up its a golden color with hints of purple. The birds start to chirp.*

*As Katie opens her eyes she can tell its morning all ready. Geting out of bed she rubs her eyes groggly. Throwing on a pair of sweat pants she heads out to the mess hall searching for coffee before doing anything alse for the day. As the crisp air hits her face, she rememebd the events of lastnight and the kiss. Without relizing it she is smiling again. Yet a new form of tention forms at going to have to see Jason again.*

*One by one the others in the ranch wake and make there way to the mess hall as they have so many other times in the past. This was now there normal rutean.*

*Rosetta eyes flutter open and for a moment wonders where she is. Than looking up she see Mick sleeping. Had they fallen asleep there last night on the coutch and not even relized it. Poor mick was going to have a crick in his next from sleeping up all night. Smiling Rosetta dosent move not wanting to wake Mick and enjoying his arms around her.*

Reaction

Mick shifts his weight slightly to lean back in the couch more comfortably, and lets Rosetta sleep. His own eyes grow heavy, and before he knows it, he’s dozed off, his arm still around her.

Clint beams at Wendy, assuming a silly grin. “If I had more hours in a day, I’d wear myself out fighting chairs. At least right now I get a break after a while.” He laughs and looks at the clock. “I think I hear my bed calling…”


Cindy forces a small smile and wipes her eyes with the back of her hand. “Thank you, Wes. You’re right…I just need to let things go for now. I should probably try to get some sleep. It’s late…”



As Katie leans closer to him, Jason can feel his pulse quicken, and for a moment he doesn’t even hear what she is saying. Feeling her lips meet his, he’s taken so off guard that he can’t even react. His eyes widen slightly, and he’s glad for the darkness as Katie steps back, knowing that his face has grown hot. He swallows hard, and the silence becomes more and more awkward, but no words that cross his mind seem to be the right ones. He shifts his weight uncomfortably, and finally clears his throat. “Um…good night, Katie.” He can sense her embarrassment, and he keeps his voice clear of reprimand. “I’ll see you in the morning…” He turns and grabs his crutches again to make his way out of the bunk. Once steady on the ground he stops and takes a deep breath, battling between emotions, and logic. It’s a far more intense struggle than he would have imagined.

The Kiss

*Wes smiles at he looks at Cindy.* " Its ok. I know its a hard thing to see people hurting and not being able to do anything. Sometimes the best thing to do it let things run there corse and it will straten themselfs out."

*Rosetta lets her sobs soften as she feels the comfort of Micks arms. Finally she drifts off to sleep in his arms.*

*Angel nods to Luke and stands returning his kiss and heading quitly out the door.*

*Wendy thinks and yawns at the moment.* " Probley a while longer. Not enough hours in a day. I have so much fun with you the time flys by. I hate it." *Wendy smiles at Clint.*

*As Katie feels Jason's warm hand on her face she pushes her head into it alittle. His words giving her comfort. As Katie looks into Jason's eyes, she can see he feels her pain. Steping in alittle closer to Jason so she is within inches of his face talking in a low soft voice she replys.* "Thank you Jason. For making me feel better. You are a good friend." *a small smile forms on Katie lips. Jason had made her feel much better just by being there. As if being pulled by a strange force Katie says." I wont being going anywhere for now." * Leaning in Katie gives Jason a soft quick kiss. Than as if relizing what she did she take a step back away from him. Her face a crimson red.* "I'm.....I'm sorry..I dont know..." *Katie shoves her hands into her hoodie pockets, and she looks at the floor.*

Comfort

Cindy sniffs and leans into Wes, finding it hard to gather her courage. Finally she pulls away far enough to look up at him. “I’m…I’m sorry. It’s just…I don’t know…I want to fix this whole thing and I can’t.”

Mick guides Rosetta into the other room, slipping past Jade to sit down on the couch. He rocks Rosetta quietly for several minutes, just letting her cry. “Shh…it’s all right. We were all scared…we’re all upset and that didn’t help things any. Katie will cool off, and we’ll straighten things out in the morning. You didn’t do anything wrong.”

Luke nods to Angel and rises as well. “Yeah, I should probably get out of here too. No point in eavesdropping on private conversations.” He leans over to give her a kiss and smiles. “See you in the morning.”

Clint quirks an eyebrow and sighs, turning back to the computer as well. Why did he feel funny about this whole exchange? He never really liked Jason, but seeing him and Katie get yelled at….he wasn’t sure what to think. “How late you planning on staying up?” he asks Wendy.


Jason is taken by surprise by Katie’s sudden embrace, but he takes it in stride, returning the hug with strong arms. He rubs her back as she cries, masking his awkwardness. She had so much strength…so much courage…yet she was vulnerable like any other human being, and now felt so small in his arms.
He listens to her talk, and finally draws her away so he can look at her, the moonlight streaming in through the window. He remembers the night before when the moon had caressed her face as it did now, but the smile had been replaced by tears. He reaches out to with his thumb to dry them, brushing her cheek gently, though his hand is rough. “I know…funny thing about words…no matter how they’re intended, they can hurt worse than anything else.” He searches Katie’s eyes, wondering what kind of comfort he could possibly offer. His heart aches like never before, as if he is absorbing her pain.
He holds her at arm’s length, offering a compassionate half-grin. “It’ll be okay. Just don’t leave…there are too many other regrets to deal with, without adding another one to the pile.”

What to do

*Wes wraps his arms around Cindy just holding her and giving her the comfort she needs. Looking up at Mick, wes gives a nod.*

*Feeling Jason's hands on her shoulders she turns and stands. Being distraught and not even relizing what she is doing she throws her arms around Jason and rests her head on his shoulder. Finally Katie stops crying enough to talk.* " No J its not your fault. I have a mind of my own and I could of said no. We did this together. I new what would happen. If I had to choose to do it again I would. I really had a fun and exciting time. Being able to do something on my own with a friend. I just dident relize my aunts words would hurt so much is all.*

*Angel looks to Luke and softly whispers.* "I'm going to head to bed I think."

*Wendy looks to Clint her eyes going from wide to rolled as she turns back to the computer.*

*Rosetta sobs.* " I just was so scaired, and...I dont know what to do."

I'm sorry

Mick takes Rosetta in his arms and lets her cry, gently running a hand through her hair. “It’s okay,” he comforts. “It’ll be alright. She’s just upset.” He glances up to catch Wes’ eye, conveying that he only hopes he’s right.

Cindy flinches at someone’s touch and turns to see Wes. Her lower lip trembles, her eyes begging for comfort.

Austin takes a deep breath and sinks into a chair, covering his face with his hands. No one knows how to respond…no one knows how to react.

Jade continues to stand in the living room doorway, her eyes wide.

Con glances out the window to keep track of everyone, keeping his opinions to himself.


Jason heads in the direction of Katie’s bunk, not even sure why he’s following her. He can’t help the feeling of hurt that has crept into him. He can’t help feeling her pain, and it’s a miserable sensation. No one should have to suffer like that, even if the cause was unintentional.

He sees her door cracked and can hear her crying inside. Frowning, he takes the steps and impulsively lets himself in. Setting his crutches quietly aside, he limps up behind her, laying both hands on her shoulders. “I’m sorry, Katie…this is all my fault.”

:)

*Rosetta turns and burys her face into Mick's shoulder.* "What have I done?"

*Katie heads to ger bunk. Not hearing Jason she enters. The door open just a crack not aware it open still. Siting down at her little table she sobs softly to herself. She knows Rosetta dident mean her words but it still stung.*

*Wes turns and puts a hand on Cindy's arm.*

Harsh words

Mick gets on his feet as Wes stands, and he moves closer to Rosetta, knowing that in the morning words will be regretted.

Jason’s eyes narrow at Rosetta’s words. He understands what she’s really saying, but is appalled at their impact. As Katie’s eyes fill with tears, a pain hits him like a kick to the gut. The feeling is so severe that he almost cringes.

He turns to watch Katie leave, helpless. Swinging back around, he glares at Rosetta, then Austin, then back to Rosetta. “You two think you’ve got it all figured out…you think that harsh words will keep us under control and put us in our place. But all you manage to do is push us away. Hang this case for corrupting what was good. You used to know how to love, but you all have your heads stuck in the ground, pretending that if you keep us locked up, the Agency can’t touch us.” Jason shakes his head in disgust. “You keep going down this road. Go ahead. It’s exactly what the Agency wants – to tear us apart.” He fixes his gaze on Rosetta. “And you better pray that what you just said to your niece doesn’t push her away for good, because you would have lost something far more precious than you could imagine.”

Spinning around, he takes himself to the door, managing to get himself outside, despite the hindrance of his crutches. He lets the door slam shut behind him and hobbles off t he porch. Squinting in the dark, he looks around and calls out. “Katie?”


Austin stands stunned, staring at the door. He doesn’t know what to feel. He’s angry, hurt, embarrassed, sad…

Mick reaches out to lay a hand on Rosetta’s shoulder.

A tear trickles down Cindy’s cheek.

Gone Tomarrow

*As the shouting in the mess hall continues, most everyone is now watching what is going on as the yelling continues. Everyones nerves uptight now.*

*Rosetta's blood boils now now than ever.* "Maybe it was wrong for me to have to come here Katie. Into this all. Maybe you never were ment to be here."

*As Katie listens to Rosetta her eyes begin to get fuzzy.* "Your right Aunt Rosetta maybe I shouldent have. Maybe I should just leave. And you always tryed to say you were my friend. Now I see what you think of me."

*After hearing enough of everything going on and relizing words are being mistaken Wes stands up.* "Ok guys, we are all tired and upset. How about we cool down and get some sleep. Than we can talk more tomarrow."

*Katie glances at Wes.* "Sorry Wes, but I dont think I can ever forget the words I just hurd here. I'm going to bed. Maybe when you wake up Rosetta your burden will be gone." *Katie turns and walks out of the bunk house. Her eyes still fuzzy with tears.*

*Rosetta eyes widen.* "Katie thats not what I...." *Rosetta is greeted by the slam of the door. Looking at Jason than Mick and back to Jason Rosetta finishes her sentince.* "thats not what I ment. It came out wrong."

Fight

Luke throws his arms around Angel, drawing her close to give her a peck on the head. “Nothing.” He grins at her. “Just thinking…”


Cindy is grateful for Wes’ company, though when Jason arrives, her attention is quickly diverted.

Clint remains seated as the raised voices resonate through the mess hall. He glances at Wendy, an eyebrow raised, but keeps quiet.

Jade comes in from the living room, her eyes wide as she hears the shouting. She stops in the doorway, watching, and unsure how to react.


Jason grits his teeth as Katie gets yelled at, and he can feel his irritation rising.

When Rosetta stops, Austin opens his mouth to speak, but Jason cuts him off. He looks at Rosetta, trying to maintain an element of respect, but not taking kindly to what had been said. “Look, if you want to blame someone, blame me, alright? I’m the one who made the decision to take off, and I’m the one that dragged Katie along. I take full responsibility for any and all of this. DON’T give her a hard time.”

“You’re certainly right you’re to blame!” Austin exclaims, jumping in. “And Rosetta’s right! What if the Agency had spotted you? Both of you out there on your own! You would have been no match for them.”

“That’s not true.” Jason shifts his glare to his grandfather. “You know me better than to think I’d walk into something blind, and besides that, four eyes are better than two, and Katie is dang good at sensing danger.” His face reddens as his anger grows. “Don’t pretend that we’re little kids who ran off for the fun of it.”

Austin’s jaw tightens, and he crosses his arms on his chest. “So why, pray tell, DID you run off?”

Jason swallows hard, knowing that he had crossed a line by going to see Carter himself. “I went to have my suspension lifted.”

“You WHAT?”

Jason stands a little straighter. “I spoke to Carter.”

Austin’s eyes can’t get any wider. “You spoke to Carter…you went over MY head? You completely ignored all the charges against you and DARED to show your face in Carter’s office?!”

“Yes.” Jason stares him dead in the eye. “And I succeeded.”

Silence. Austin can’t believe it. “You’re suspension is lifted?”

“Yes.”

Anger flashes in Austin’s eyes. “I can’t believe your nerve! And I can’t believe Carter did that! After all those charges, after everything that happened, and the shape you’re in… WHAT is going on in that head of yours??!”

Despite Jason’s ire for the verbal exchange, a tongue-lashing from his grandfather still evokes an element of childlike shame. He drops his gaze to the floor as the blood rushes to his face. “I did what I needed to do,” he defends in a lower tone. “I knew that if I told you where I was going that you would have stopped me, and had I called you on the way, you would have called Carter and warned him I was coming. I didn’t want that.”

“Of course not! If you would have had a clear conscience, you wouldn’t have tried to sneak around. You knew you were wrong!”

“I didn’t think I was wrong, and I still don’t. If Carter didn’t want me to stay on the case, he would have said so. It was his decision, not mine.”

“But you instigated it!” Austin throws his hands up in the air. “You have so many more issues here than just one, Jason! Apart from the fact that you went over my head and were stupid, you stole Pete’s car! You had us worried to death! You went off gallivanting around, with a girl no less, overnight – how do you think THAT will look on your record?”

Jason’s eyes shoot back up, his anger taking over. He lifts a finger to Austin in warning, his tone the most intense it’s been. “I’ll warn you for the last time, Austin. We are NOT having this conversation again. You get your mind out of the gutter and back where it belongs, or so help me, I’ll knock your block off for any implications against Katie’s integrity.” He glares into Austin’s eyes, his caution gone. “This has absolutely nothing to do with that and you know it. You’re just mad that I did something you didn’t want me to do. Get over yourself and deal with it.”

Their staredown intensifies, the unspoken words hanging thickly in the air.

Argument

*Angel makes her way over to Luke and sits next to him.* " You looks llike your thinking about an awfel alot. Whats on your mind hun?"

*Wes stays with Cindy to try and keep her comapny. Knowing she is worryed about Jason dosent make it easy, but understand and keeps trying anyways.*

*Wendy snuggles next to Clint reading through some files. Its nice to have someone to feel comfortable around and spend time with.*


*As Jason pulls into the ranch Katie lets out a long sigh.* "This is the best part...facing the music." *Katie rolls her eyes as they enter the mess hall. As Austin comes twords them with his questions Katie stands furm behind Jason.*

*As the kids walk in the door Rosetta is quick to get up behind Austin.* "You went to TJY, all the way to TJY. Without saying anything to anyone. What if you were killed?"

*Katie looks at her aunt.* "But we wernt!"

*Rosetta looks to Katie her own fire in her eyes.* "That dosent matter. No one new where you were, if you were killed we would have no idea where to find you. You had us all worryed sick. And you young lady should know better. Havent you learned you lesson?"

*Katie's face gets red as she knows Rosetta is talking about the past.* " The only differnt if I dident do anything wrong and dangerouse. I was helping a friend in need."

Rosetta: "YOU DIDENT DO ANYTHING WRONG? YOU BOTH STOLE SOMEONE CAR. AND FROVE HALFWAY AROUND THE COUNTRY. The Agency is everywhere. What if they saw you to and tryed something?" *Rosetta still notices Katie has her sun glass on.* " That those glasses off. Its dark out you dont need them. You look like someone bodyguard."

*Katie whispers under her breath but loud ebough to hear.* "Maybe I am."

*Rosetta snaps her gaze to Katie again taking a step twords her.* "What did you say young lady?"

*Katie takes off her sunglass.* "Nothing."

*Rosetta throws her hands up in disgust.* "I just dont get it."

Katie: "Dident you do this stuff to when you were my age? You and everyone alse here?"

Rosetta:" This is far differnt from what I did when I was your age. I was trying to keep you from this. So you dident have to deal with any of the hardships I did."

Katie: "Well I guess you dident. No disrespect Aunt Rosetta but I did what I thought was right. And making sure my friend got to his destanation alive and home again was important to me. I am 20 years old. I can make my own desitions."

*Rosetta lets out a sigh to upset to say anything more. She looks to Austin for help, and to continue.*

Back

Evening comes. The gang gathers for supper once again and conversations are kept light, despite the tension that has set in. There has been no sign of Jason and Katie yet. As the hours drag slowly by, Eric opts to go to bed, and his pattern is soon followed by several others.

Jade yawns and curls up on the couch in the adjoining room, tired, but wanting to stay up until Jason and Katie arrive.

Cindy tries to keep herself occupied and stress-free, though Austin's pacing doesn't help any. She attempts helping go through some files, but soon gives up, her attention too far removed.

Clint stays mostly out of curiosity, wanting to know both if Jason and Katie's absence had anything to do with the case, and how Austin and Rosetta were going to react.

Sensing Rosetta's worry, Mick stays in the mess hall to be of support if needed, and remains quiet, observing the others from a table by himself.

Luke stretches out his legs on a second chair in front of the fireplace, yet another who is interested to see what has really happened. He keeps one eye on Angel, his mind split between two different worlds.


Midnight. Jason slowly pulls into the driveway, the headlight sweeping the yard. Seeing the lights still on in the mess hall, he sighs deeply and parks near the door. Shutting of the engine, he sees a figure come to the window. He glances to Katie with a look that says, 'I really don't want to go in there.' "Well...I guess we don't have much of a choice." He gets out of the car and grabs his crutches to make his way to the door with Katie. Pausing for just a moment, he enters.

Cindy looks up quickly from the book she had been reading, and immediately stands. Her relief of seeing her son overrides her anger for the moment, and she goes to him quickly, giving him a motherly hug. "You had us worried sick!" She backs up, looking at him with concern. "What ever possessed you to run off like that?"

Jason gives Katie a sidelong glance as he tries to formulate an answer. He sees Austin only feet away, wearing a look on his face that proves he is quite unhappy. "Well, I guess it was my desire to do what I thought was right." He hesitates. "...We went to TJY."

Austin's eyes widen as a strange silence lingers for several moments.

coming to a close

*Angel finally makes her way to the mess hall. Looking around but not seeing Luke she makes her way over to Wendy. Siting down Wendy and Angel look through catalogs of wedding dress, bridemades dress' flowers and more.*

*As Rosetta sits in her chair by the fireplace she looks up from her paper work every now and than wondering where the kids could be and when they will be home. Rosetta trys to consintrat on her paper work but it just seems impossable. So many things running through Rosetta's mind.*

*Katie nods* "I dont fear much, but I cant help what Austin and my aunt are going to say to us when we get home." *katie lets out a long sigh as she looks out the winsow.* "Its was work it though." * No matter how much she tells herself it will be ok she cant help but be worryed anyways. Katie has never seen her Aunt upset befor but there was a first for everything.*

Restless

Clint laughs and goes to the kitchen to grab some coffee both for himself and Wendy.

The morning seems to go quickly, as plans are made for more research and investigation throughout the day. Clint heads to Wes’ shop to work, while several others set up work stations in the mess hall as usual.

Becky and Rosalynn take a trip into town for some groceries, while Jade remains in the background, still feeling somewhat out of place, and ends up with a book near the fireplace.

Mick winds up in the barn to groom some of the horses, all computers taken up by the others. He lets his mind wander, thinking through everything he knows and trying to remember anything that might help the case.

Austin paces by the window, wondering when Jason and Katie will get back.


Jason laughs. “If you drink a whole pot, we’re never going to make it back home.” He doesn’t even have to look at the menu. “Mrs. Owens makes awesome pancakes….eggs are good….honestly, everything on the menu is good.”

All too soon, breakfast is over, and it’s time to hit the road again. Jason takes back over driving, feeling more alert and mobile by this time.

The drive seems longer than it did coming, and the hours drag by. Making few stops, and grabbing lunch on the way, the miles are left behind, one by one, and soon the sun begins to set.

Jason yawns and straightens in his seat. “Well, at this rate we’ll be back pretty late, but I’m sure there will be a welcoming committee waiting.”


Austin looks at his watch for the umpteenth time. The aroma from the kitchen signals that supper will be ready soon, and the gang begins to filter back into the mess hall. Where was Jason? Shouldn’t he have been back by now? Where on earth had they gone to be that far away?