A day ends

Mick’s glad Damien is still willing to work with them, and explains more. “If you can meet us at the hospital tomorrow afternoon around one o’clock, that would be great.” After ending the conversation, he hangs up the phone and turns his attention back to BJ, making sure he eats his breakfast, and then gets cleaned up for the day.

Clint eyes the information and nods to Wendy. “Yeah…see if you can dig anything else up. I don’t know what good it’ll do us know, but any puzzle pieces at this point are worth the effort. I gotta go help Wes, but if anything comes up, let me know.”

Reese is grateful for Katie’s report and sets her up with a few more tasks for the day. Several people are called away on a sudden assignment, leaving the lunch room fairly quiet around noon, and during the afternoon, things start to wind down again.

At five, Laura comes by Katie’s cubicle to let her know they can get going. Though having planned to get together with some of the other women, with a couple gone on a case, it’s postponed until a better time, and Laura takes Katie back to her house for an evening meal of pizza before getting ready for bed.

The day seems to go by quickly at the ranch, with new goals to find out more about Sam and BJ, though nothing much is found. Clint works with Wes until the evening, Jason hibernates in his bunk trying to find more information on the slight lead he had, and the others are dispersed, either helping with ranch work or doing research.
In the afternoon, Becky and Rosalynn are ready to go, and Jim takes them away from the ranch, only few knowing where they are going, though Jim says he will be back the next day.
As evening hits, Mick makes sure BJ has a place in the guest room in the mess hall, and opts to sleep in the living room nearby in case anything goes wrong.

Jade sits in her bunk and stares at her computer screen. It was dark out…but she had too much on her mind to sleep. She feels so out of place here…. if it weren’t for her father…or Jason… she knew she would probably find it a good time to go back home. She didn’t know as much about this case and felt useless with no knowledge about how to do anything. Rosalynn was gone, leaving her with one less friend, and Katie had been gone for a couple days….Katie…
Jade sighs and opens up her email, having determined that this was something she needed to write:

Dear Katie,
Hope you’re doing well over at TJY. We miss you…not the same without you around here…
Things are even quieter now – I don’t know if you knew Becky and Rosalynn left. No one knows where they are other than Jim…well, I think Mick and Sparky know, but they’re not saying anything.
Anyway…that’s not why I’m writing. I wanted to apologize…Jason told me all about your fight, and the things that were said and…if I had anything to do with it, I’m so sorry. If I came between you and Jason, I didn’t mean to, and I feel terrible thinking that maybe I did. He and I are happy, but if anything I did caused you to leave, I’m terribly sorry. I like Jason…a lot…but I didn’t want it to hurt our friendship…
I guess that’s it…I don’t know what else to day. I’m glad you were able to go to TJY – I know it’s what you wanted. I hope that I can see you again soon.
-Jade

Information

*Damien listens intently to Mick.* "Ya sure thats fine. When did you want to do this so I can head over."

*Rosetta catches Mick's eye and nods standing. She puts her hand on BJ shoulder.* "Hey hun...This is Annie. She and Mick are Sam's brother and sister."

*BJ looks at Annie than to Rosetta his eyes start to well.* "How come Ann looksh like Sham if its not her."

*Rosetta puts her arms around BJ as his eyes fill.* " Cuz alot of times family look alike. Come on Lets play with your trucks some more."

*BJ sniffs and follows Rosetta turning back to look at Annie.*

*As Annie looks at Rosetta and BJ, a certen look pass through both there eyes and they look alike for a moment. Annie thinks for a long moment but than lets the though go heading into the kitchen to get some coffee.*

*Wendy re reads the information.* "Well it says here that Sam, Mick and Annie triplet was taken like everyone alse. but the differnct with her was the Agency kept her and dident give her up." *Wendy ready alittle more.* "It says they had a special plane for her. but than there is a gap. I dont know if we can dig father and see what alse we can find our not."

~*~ Back at TJY ~*~

*Katie listens intently to Con making sure not to miss anything.* "Ok Con thx. Be talking to you again soon." *After Katie hangs up the phone she heads into Reese's office. and relays everything to him Con has told her. Trying to break down all the information in her own mind as well.*

Phone Calls

“Hey, Damien.” Mick cradles the phone between his shoulder and chin. “Listen, we’ve had a few new things come up around here, and we’re checking someone else out for a computer chip tomorrow at the hospital where Jason was. Wanted to know if you’d be willing to come get an x-ray done to see if you’ve got a chip yourself. I know we talked about that before.” As he talks, out of the corner of his eye he sees BJ rush to Annie, and his heart breaks in two, but there’s nothing he can do. He throws Rosetta a look, asking her to help.


Clint comes over to Wendy and lays his hands on her shoulders as he looks over her head. “What did you find?”

Rosalynn and Becky pack their bags in silence, neither one ready, but both knowing it has to be done. Jim had told them to be ready by that afternoon.


Con stands in the living room adjoining the mess hall as he talks to Katie. “Glad you’re having fun, Kat.” He glances out into the other room, hearing BJ. “We got a couple things going on around here. We’ve already been in contact with a couple people out your way, but Reese might not have been informed yet, we had a kid about six years old dropped off here last night. Looks like he was being held by Sam…apparently she’s a triplet with Annie and Mick. Quite a nice new twist to this whole thing.” He rolls his eyes. “We’re trying to get things set up to check the kid out – he might have an implant as well.” He pauses, thinking of anything he should relay. “Other than that…not much else.”

Sam or Annie

*As Damien finishes up out in the barn his phone rings.* "Hello this is Damien" *Damien listens to the other end.* "Oh hey Mick."

*Rosetta sits with BJ on the floor with bj playing with his trucks and army men. Both of them laughing. Rosetta's face beams as she plays with the small boy.*

*Annie finally makes her way to the mess hall after finishing up some paper work for her next destanation. No one had really seen her much to fill her in about the newcomer. After entering she stop and looks at Rosetta and BJ for a long moment.*

*Apon hearing the door open BJ turns his head. As he see Annie he heart starts to race as he jumps up and runs open armed to her.* "SHAM.....SHAM I NEW YOU WOULD TUM BACK TO MES." *BJ embraces Annie.*

*Shocked and confused Annie looks around the room.* " I guess thats my new name latly or somehting?"

*As Wendy serfs though some more files she runs across some files on Sam.* " Hey Clint, come here." *After he is by her, she points to the screen.* "Look what I found."

~*~At TJY~*~

*Katie nods to Reese.* "Ok will do. As soon as I know anything from him I will get back to you." *Katie smiles as she heads back to her desk. Siting down she dials Con's number and waits. While starting to type up some paper work for Reese. * "Hey Con its Katie....I'm good thanks. Oh yes I am having fun so far. I got to meet Reese son. He seems nice." *there is a pause*" Ya I guess Reese wants me to be your contact now. So here I am contacting you." *Though Katie's face cant be seen a smile can be hurd.*

Midday

Midmorning creeps closer to noon, as activities continue, trying to make decisions about BJ and the near future. Austin speaks with someone at TJY, but comes up with nothing. It becomes obvious that Sam was telling the truth – no one has been missing a child that matches BJ’s description in the recent past. Anything over several years though has become obscure, leaving research more and more difficult.

“Yeah, thanks…” Austin hangs up the phone from talking with JT. “Well, he’s not working today, but tomorrow he’ll be in, and said he’ll make time for us. He’s got to see Jason anyway, and he’s willing to help us out, no questions asked.”

Mick nods with satisfaction. “Good. Let me call Damien and see about him.” He picks up the phone, dials and waits.


Jason sits on the floor of his bunk, his back up against the wall, deep in thought. Jade had made him stop and really start wondering about his motives…whether he’d been right or wrong… and it was beginning to look as though he really had been wrong. …And that made the pain of losing his friend all the greater.


Susanne readily accepts the papers from Katie, thanking her. Reese smiles as he receives the work from Katie, nodding with satisfaction. He glances at the clock. “Why don’t you go ahead and give Con a call, then it’ll be about time for your lunch break.”

Tasks almost complete

*Rosetta nods at Mick.* "Ya go do what you need and I will watch him." *Rosetta sits across from BJ at the table smiling.*

*BJ waddles back into the kitchen juming back into his chair.* "shank you." *Quitely BJ eats as she watched more people come into the mess hall.*

*Wendy enters the mess hall and make her way to an open computer before even having anything to drink. Siting down she starts to look up some information on BJ to see what she can find.*

~*~At TJY~*~

*Katie watches Scott as he walks away leaving a path of discruction. Shaking her head she laughs.* "Poor guy." *A few hours later Katie heads into Where Susanne is and hands her the copys of the papers she wrote than knocking on Reese is door to give give him the origniles along with the letters and information she found on the list of names her gave her.*

Deepening

Mick sighs and turns back to the pancakes. “I’m alright I guess…not to easy seeing a kid like that…he reminds me a lot of Dylan at that age.” He reaches up in the cupboard to pull out a bag of chocolate chips, creating a smiley face in the pancake. “And no…no one found anything that I know of. Under normal circumstances, we’d be obligated to take BJ into the authorities so they could find his family and place him proper care…” He shakes his head. “But we know this has to do with the Agency, and I’d be scared to let him go, especially if Sam was telling the truth.” He takes the plate and sets it on the table, along with a small cup of milk. “You’re right though…this kid has no idea what’s going on, which makes it even sadder…but maybe it’s a good thing.” He pauses in thought. “I think maybe it would be a good idea to take him in to JT and have him run some tests or an x-ray to really find out what’s going on. Until we’re sure there’s a chip or something in him, we’re just sitting at square one, not going anywhere…and come to think of it, I might give Damien an ring too…I’m still not convinced he doesn’t have a chip himself.”
Mick sticks his head out of the kitchen. “Hey, Bud, your pancake is ready, come on.” He turns back to Rosetta. “Keep an eye on him, will ya? I gotta go take a shower and get some clean clothes on.”

The mess hall door opens and closes, as others begin to filter in for the morning.


“Hey, Katie!” Scott peaks over the cubical wall with big grin. “Glad to see ya made it in this morning!” He shoves his glasses up further on his nose. “Listen, if you need anything at all, or can’t find anything, just give a holler and I’m all yours.”

“Scott! I need you!”

He turns around to see someone waving at him, and pointing at their computer. “I guess duty calls.” He shrugs and waves to Katie. “Catch you later then.” As he walks away, he bumps a table, knocking off a stack of papers onto the floor. “Oh, oh bother,” he mumbles. He bends down to pick them up, and when he tries to straighten up, he hits his head on the corner of the table, jolting it enough to spill the holder of pencils, sending them rolling in all directions. After several attempts to get everything back in its place, the other person is calling him again, and he’s finally able to leave behind the table in slight disarray.


Jason looks at his computer with frustration, unable to find where he’d seen that name before. There were just so many loose ends in this case. It was like a box of puzzle pieces that were from five different puzzles.

A tap on the door brings him out of his concentration, and he doesn’t even have to ask who’s there. He recognizes the light knock. “Come on in,” he calls.

Jade slips inside, and approaches him quietly, sitting down close to him on the edge of his bed. “Didn’t see you in the mess hall yet, so I guess I just wanted to see if you were alright.”

Jason scoffs. “Me? Alright? Yeah, sure.”

Jade sighs, looking at him with concern. “You haven’t exactly been yourself the last few days.”

“Would you be?” Jason turns in his seat to lean an arm on the back of his chair. He looks down, sighing deeply. “I’m sorry…I just…don’t know what’s wrong with me lately.”

“Well you’ve been through a lot,” Jade reasons. “I guess I just wanted to make sure it wasn’t anything I’d done.”

Jason looks up quickly, not having wanted to make her feel bad. “No, it’s nothing you’ve done at all. All you’ve done is be patient with me and stick with me despite all the messing up I’ve done.”

Jade grins a little. “It’s not as bad as you make it sound.” She pauses, cocking her head. “So what is it, really, Jason? Is it your past again? Or you and Austin, or…?”

“No.” Jason shakes his head. “I’m okay with the past…it flares up in my dreams, but I’ve learned how to get through that and control it. And Austin and I are okay at the moment…we talked.”

“What then?” Jade bites her lip, hesitating. “Is it Katie?”

Jason’s gaze drops again. “Logically I just can’t think anything I did was wrong, and yet something keeps trying to make me feel guilty about the whole thing. And on top of that, she’s back at TJY where I’m supposed to be.”

Jade gives him a small look of amusement. “So not only are you two on the outs, but you’re jealous that she’s back at your stomping grounds without you there.”

“I guess.”

Jade sighs, knowing it must not be easy. “I can’t say that I can blame either one of you for what you’re both feeling, but there’s a solution, I’m sure.”

“Was I that wrong?” Jason asks. “If you’d been Katie, would you have gotten that upset?”

Jade thinks for a moment. “Honestly? Probably.”

Jason quirks an eyebrow. “Well why? What did I do that was so wrong?”

“You hid things from her, Jason,” Jade replies gently. “Good friends don’t do that, especially with something so important. I understand you had your reasons, but if you’d really cared about her as a friend, you should have at least put all the cards on the table to begin with.”

“But I still would have said no!”

“That doesn’t matter.” Jade shakes her head. “You knew it was something extremely important to Katie. She at least should have had the chance to know about it and take another avenue herself if she so chose.”

“Well what about the whole thing about her being so upset I didn’t tell her about us?” Jason can feel his defense weakening, and fights it.

Jade’s face warms slightly. “Part of that is probably my fault…I guess I didn’t realize that she liked you that way, and if I had, I probably would have gone about things a little differently. But as it stood… I suppose you didn’t do anything wrong on that one… unless it was simply being a guy who can’t read a woman well enough to keep himself out of trouble.”

Jason’s eyes widen slightly. “What do you mean?”

A wry grin comes to Jade’s lips. “Let me give you a little hint…even if you think something is obvious to us, it makes us feel good to have you say it anyway. Katie liked you, Jason…whether you or I knew it or not. And…as a friend, she probably felt she, of all people, would know about something you cared about, but she didn’t. Instead, she saw us kissing, and it hit her harder than it should have.”

Jason lets out a long sigh, turning back to his computer, fighting his thoughts. “So I did screw up then.”

Jade shrugs. “What’s done is done. But any realizations you come to might help change the future.” She stands up, and leans over to give him a kiss on the cheek. “I’m going to get some breakfast. You want anything?”

“Nah…not now…I’ll get something later.” Jason hears Jade leave, and pushes his laptop aside. He’d been so confident of his decision…he’d fought his reasoning tooth and toenail….but…had he been wrong?

starting

*BJ nods at Mick.* "I tan be strong too."* BJ looks at Rosetta again. Slowly he holds out his arm wtih the pic in it.*

*Gently Rosetta takes the picture from BJ looking at the picture Rosetta smiles.* "Whos this?"

*Softly BJ speaks.* "Dat is Sham, and mes when I was a baby." * A smile creeps across BJ's face as he takes the picture back and puts it back into his bag. Stoping for a moment to take some toys out and play with them on the floor.*

*Rosetta stands and looks at Mick leaning aganst the counter.* "So do we know anything alse about BJ yet? At least where he is from." *Rosetta watches BJ from the kitchen.* "I feel sorry for the little guy. He dosent even relize whats going on." *Rosetta frowns.* "How are you holding up?

~*~At TJY~*~

*Katie nods at Susanne* "Morning."
*Katie smiles at Reese.* "Hey. Ya I am. There is still some stuff I need to get for my room but other than that its good." *Katie follows Reese back out into the main room, and to the cubicle. Grabing a peace of paper Katie starts writing down what Reese wants her to do. Than taken a bit by saprise at her being Con contact Katie nods obeadently.* " Ya peace of cake." *Katie sits down at the desk and flicks the computer on. Than looks back at Reese.* " I guess I am gonna need some sapplys too. Guess I should head over and get some than get started. Thx Reese." *Katie stands again and heads to the sapply room. Entering she grabs on pens, markers, paper, folders, paper clips, and push pins. Balancing everything Katie makes her way back to her desk to start her work.*

Work starts

Mick can’t help but smile at BJ, and he straightens back up. “Pancakes it is.” Going about the task, he feels as if he’s picked up right where he left off over ten years earlier, cooking breakfast for his kids when Jill had been sick or out of town. He’s quick to whip up a bowl of batter, pouring it into the pan on the stove.
As he lets it cook, he sees BJ leave and come back, holding the picture. Taking a closer look, Mick can feel a lump rising in his throat. So that was the sister he never knew. He glances at BJ’s big eyes, wishing he had something better to say. “I don’t know, Bud…but you can be strong, can’t you?”
When the boy hesitates with Rosetta, Mick gives him a nod. “It’s alright - show her your picture.”


Jason sits down at his computer to type, allowing his thoughts to drift as they will. Decisions have to be made…a direction must be found…he can’t stay like this forever. Katie was gone, he’d messed up royally, and he wasn’t even sure of himself anymore. But something had to give before it all fell apart completely.


Wyatt grins. “I doubt you’d get lost, but we can pretend, just so I have an excuse to accompany you.” He chuckles at Katie’s question. “Dad’s a pusher, I will say that. But he’s nice - you won’t have a thing to worry about. He’ll get you going, then push you to your limit, but no further.”
Wyatt goes through Susanne’s open door, greeting her.

Susanne looks up and smiles at them both. “Good morning.”

Wyatt heads to Reese’s office and knocks before entering.

A grin comes to Reese’s face. “Well, hi, you two.”

Wyatt thumbs back to the floor. “Just letting you know I’m here, and will head out with Tye later on to go see about that gang fight.”

“Alright,” Reese nods. “Thanks.” When his son has left, he stands up from his desk to greet Katie. “Glad to see you this morning - I hope you got settled in at Laura’s place okay.” He leads her back out onto the floor to a cubicle near one corner where there is a good-sized desk, a chair and computer. “This will be your spot for a while, so make yourself at home.” He explains to her some secretarial work that she’ll be doing, demonstrating some things on the computer, and telling her how the phones work. “Today I’m going to need these letters typed up, I need this stack of paperwork copied with the originals going to Susanne and copies to me, I’ve got a list here of names who I need contact information for that you can find in our database, and…” he pauses, counting things off on his fingers. “Since you’ve got ties back at the ranch, I’d like you to be Con’s contact and pass along to me anything important. Either you can call him once a day, or he’ll call in - either way, I want you to talk to him at least every day, and report to me.” Reese takes a deep breath and looks around. “So….think you can handle that?”

First Day of a New Life

*BJ his eyes in a groggy voice replys.* "Yesh. Tan I have some pantakes pwease." *BJ watches Mick for a long while. Than jumping out of his chair as if remembering something he runs to his bag and grabs the picture of himself and Sam. It looks to be taken maybe 2 or 3 years ago. Coming back into the kitchen BJ holds up the picture to mick.* "It Sham going to come back?" *BJ's little round eyes are so big it could melt the coldest of hearts.*

*As Rosetta comes into the kitchen she see Mick and BJ smiling she walks over to Mick and gives him a small kiss the the check. Bending down to be eye level with BJ Rosetta smiles.* " Morning little guy. What do you have in your hand?" *Rosetta offers BJ a smile.*

*BJ looks up at Mick than back at Rosetta again. Decieding weather he should talk to her or not.*

~*~At TJY~*~

*Katie smiles at Laura* "Ok thank you." *As Wyatt steps off the elevator and smiles at Katie she cant help but stair. She hasent noticed the day befor just how handsome he was. Relizing she was stairing Katies face turns red.* "Moring. Ya sure I am heading to your dad's office. Its probley good if I have someone to walk with me, I might get lost." *Katie lets out a laugh and smiles. After walking a few feet Katies trys to make small talk.* "So ya think you dad is going to work me like a horse my first day?"

Back to TJY

Mick turns around and is startled by BJ’s presence in the kitchen, but he recovers quickly for the child’s sake. He offers a smile, and comes over to squat down in front of him. “Hey, Bud.” He reaches up to straighten an unruly lock of BJ’s hair. “You hungry?”


Laura grins as she finishes her bowl of cereal. “Hey, good morning. Hope you slept all right.” She throws her dishes in the sink, seeing that Katies is ready to go. “Let me grab my purse, and we’re out of here.”

The ride to TJY takes only ten minutes, and after getting past security, Laura leads the way back down to the lower level. “Well, I suppose Reese will want to see you this morning to get you started.” She gives Katie an encouraging smile. “If you feel overwhelmed or have any questions at all, don’t hesitate to find me. About noon we’ll pop out to bring back something to eat.”
As she heads towards her cubicle, a male voice comes from behind Katie.

“Mornin’.” Wyatt steps out of the elevator, flashing Katie a smile. He looks different than the day before…still in his leather jacket, his hair pulled back in a rubber band, and appearing not to have shaved that morning, giving him a much rougher look than the day before. He sets his sunglasses up on his head. “I think I’m heading in the same direction as you. May I walk you to the back?”

BJ wakes

*Slowly BJ brings his hand to his eyes trys to to ajust to the light. This room, it was differnt...Where was he?Siting up slowly BJ looks around. Seeing Mick in the kitchen slowly everything comes back to him. Swinging his legs off the coutch BJ slowly waddles into the kitchen not making a sound. Geting up on one of the chairs he sits. Waiting for breakfest.*

~*~At Laura's House~*~

*As Katie wonders her room she cant shake the feeling she was having. It felt like something had changed again. A new life was home. Katie sits and remembers Baby Jason. How she missed her baby brother. Shaking the feeling again from her mind she stands today she would start her new job. She couldent be distracted. Exiting her room she heads downstair and grabs a cup of coffee. Smileing at Laura and ready to go.* "Morning."

A new day

Mick opens one eye wearily and straightens his neck from the crooked position it’s been in all night. He glances down, to his chest, BJ’s warm body still covered in a blanket, and still lying peacefully. He hadn’t moved once…poor kid must have been completely exhausted.

Trying to shift his weight a little, Mick realizes just how stiff he’s become. Looking up at the clock, he knows people will start stirring soon. Moving carefully, he takes BJ in his arms to lower his legs back to the floor, standing up just a little unsteadily as his blood circulation starts to flow again. He takes the boy into the living room, setting him down quietly on the couch, then heads to the kitchen to start a pot of coffee.


Jason stares into the gray light with no motivation to get out of bed. There’s something unfinished…unsettling, that will not allow his mind to rest. All night he’d tossed and turned, wanting just to sleep, but dreams continued to invade his mind.


Laura rolls out of bed, slapping her own alarm clock with a groan. Rising, she showers and dresses quickly, heading for the kitchen. After feeing Henry, she puts a pot of coffee on, and puts a light breakfast on the table, having heard Katie already up.

Chase away

*Wes nods at his brother.* "We could always take rounds at watching outside. In case anyone shows up."

*Rosetta lets out a loud laugh as she comes through the door with the others. Apon entering Rosetta see Mick with BJ. A look of confustion cross her face.* "What on earth?"

*Wendy finds Clint not to far away from the door at a table and walks over.* "Hey. Whats with the little Kid?"

*As the night pass the story oh how BJ came to the ranch is told. As the boy lays silently sleeping in Mick's lap. A few hours pass some find a place in the mess hall to sleep, while others go back to there bunks. The night drags on and finally the Sun starts to shine As the trees reach there shadows away as if running for cover from the light.*

~*~At Laura's Apt~*~

"BZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZ........"

*Katie rubs her eyes as she alarm jolts her out of sleep. It was a restless night and Katie dident sleep well. Something layed heavy on her mind. Finally geting out of bed Katie heads to the shower.*

Nightfall

The women finally relent, giving into the late evening, and get ready to leave the restaurant. On their way, the ride home is quiet, all tired, and all lost in their own thoughts.
Arriving back, the light is still on in the mess hall, signaling that most are still up and active.



Mick shakes his head at Wes. “I don’t know…I just don’t know… we were so confused for so long… and the Agency did such a good job covering up our family ties that…. I guess if they wanted to cover up Sam bad enough, they could have succeeded.” His mind wanders to the past, when no one knew anything about their families. It had been an uphill battle all the way with confusion, lies, and extreme highs and lows. And now…a new element had been added. He had a sister he’d never even known about…that he might never even see. Mick wasn’t so sure how he was supposed to feel about that. “No wonder he came to me,” he thinks aloud. “I must remind him of Sam.”

Trying to block further confusing emotions from his mind, he tries to concentrate on a more important avenue and nods to Angel. “Yeah, he seems alright, just tired. I wonder what the note means…he must have an implant too, poor kid. I believe what’s said, that the Agency is after him. If they’ve been going after us because of the chips, then this can’t be any different, if not worse….” Mick glances at the note again. “I wonder why for what other reason he would be important to us… or to ‘some’ of us.” He sighs deeply and sticks his foot out to draw another chair close enough to set both his feet up on. Adjusting BJ gently so he can’t fall off his lap if Mick let’s go, he straightens out the boy’s shirt and settles himself down. “For now, he’s alright here. I don’t feel comfortable letting him out of anyone’s sight without knowing more. Sam said she was leading the Agency away from here, but we can’t bet everything on it.”

Con nods from his spot at the window. “Austin, why don’t you call the guys and tell them what’s up so they keep a close eye on those cameras. I’m not sure if the were watching the driveway tonight, so I don’t know if they’d have any footage of the car, but at least for tonight they should stay alert.”

Austin agrees and moves to the side to make the call.

Jason looks at BJ, compassion stirring within him. He wasn’t that young, but he knows the pain of being without a family…he knows the fear… who would do this to such a cute kid as this? He finally shakes his head at Angel. “We can try looking for his family, but it’s not going to be easy, seeing as though the Agency is involved. Besides that…his parents may think he’s dead, if Sam has been taking care of him for that long. We should probably give TJY a heads up too though – they’ve got a lot more feelers out there.”

Jade finally makes it from the living room, and leans on the doorway, catching bits and pieces of what’s going on. She spies her father with BJ, and her heart melts. A memory surfaces of when she was a little girl, sitting with her daddy on the couch with Dylan. She remembers the good times…

Everyone looks up as the headlights from a couple vehicles shine into the windows. “The girls are home,” Con announces, and waits for them to come in, seeing Rosetta in the lead.

What should

*As Katie plays with her phone her eyes scan the room. So many picstures. Con and Laura looked happy in every single one. It was strange no to see any sign of parents in any of the. Katie shrugs maybe she would ask Laura about it in the morning. Changing into her PJ's Katie climbs into bed. It was going to be a long day tomarrow and Katie wanted to be rested for it. Tossing and turning Katie trys to push all thoughts out of her mind, finally falling asleep.*


~*~Girl's night out.~*~

*As the night goes on the ladys all laugh,joke, and have a great time. For a moment forgeting about all that was said earlyer. As time goes by Rosetta finally stands.* "Well ladys as much as I dont want this to end, I am geting to old to stay up late and my eyes are slowly closing. I think its time I head back to the ranch. I had a wonderful time."

~*~ Back at the Ranch~*~

*Wes stands and comes closer studing BJ.*"I never new." *Reading the letter his eyes grow wide.* " I dont understand what any of this means. How did we not find information on another sister?"

*Angel looks over BJ circling Mick.* "Well from looking at him here he looks to be ok. I dont want to force him to let me right now. It seems like he has had a long jouurny and very fragil. I can look at him more tomarrow." *Angel steps out onto the porch and drags BJ's bags into the mess hall.*

*BJ lifts his head slightly. Running his eyes and yawning he says.* "Dose are my toys and cloths.." *BJ replaces his head onto Mick's shoulder. and drifting off to sleep.*

*Angel gives a small smile at BJ and Mick.* "I wonder if we could find anything in the files or online." *Angel looks from Austin, Jason and Con.* " Do you guys have any idea at all about this? Whoever's boy this is they have to be pritty worryed about him. He's a cute kid. We could alwyas put him in the spair bedroom. I wouldent want to leave him in a bunk alone. He is to small."

Pictures

The guest room is simple, but even here, cherished photos exist. One in particular houses a small wooden frame on the dresser. A girl, appearing to be about eight years old, and a tall teenage boy. It’s obviously Con and Laura, Con with his protective arm around her, and both giving their best smiles.
More photos in the guest room show the two of them at that young age and beyond, but something seems to be missing. No other people in the pictures look to be another brother…and nowhere are anyone who look like parents.



Jade is tucked under Jason’s arm on the couch, her head resting on his chest, while her eyes grow heavy watching the tv screen.

Jason keeps his feet propped up on the coffee table, half-interested in the movie, and even less interested in the company around him right now. He has a desire to be by himself, but no motivation to get up and go to his bunk. It was a miserable state to be stuck in, but staying here was the easiest route, and having Jade next to him did provide an amount of peace.

His phone buzzing in his pocket makes him jump, and he reaches for it. But by the time he gets it out and opens it, the caller had apparently hung up. Rolling his eyes, he puts it back in his pocket.

Trying to get back into the movie, he hears noise in the adjoining room, and cranes his neck to see what’s going on. Sensing that not all is right, he pats Jade’s arm, to make her more alert. “Hey…I’m gonna see what’s happening.”

“Hmm?” Jade grins at him, forcing herself to straighten up so Jason can rise. “Okay.”

Jason gets up and takes his crutches to go into the mess hall, taken by off guard by the little newcomer.



Mick is surprised by BJ’s sudden attachment, but his instincts kick in and he wraps a strong arm around the boy, letting him close. Who was Stan? What had driven fear into this child? Why had Mick never known of Sam? Where was she now? The shock and confusion linger, tension showing through his locked jaw. But he rubs BJ’s back, trying not to pass on any more tension than the boy already feels. “You’re safe here, Bud, don’t worry. Stan’s not here, and I won’t let him do anything to you.”

As BJ hides even further into his chest when Angel approaches, Mick lets him, running his fingers through the unruly hair. He looks at Angel, the emotions coursing through his eyes. “I don’t know…I just got this note…I don’t understand.”

Sparky comes to read over Angel’s shoulder, his eyes widening at the news of another sister. He glances at Wes, motioning for him to join them and read too.

Mick looks up at them, automatically keeping his arm surrounding the boy. “What do we do?”

*Kaite giggles alittl* " Ya they are unsepritable." *The rest of the evning is quiet as Katie watches the movie. After is it over Katie heads to the bathroom to fast a fast shower than back to her room. Katie sets her alarm for early so She can be up and ready for work. A few things need to be unpacked still. Katie starts on that. Going over to the nightstand she puts her book inside only to find another book there. It looks to be a devotional book. Katie gives a small laugh and opens the book. She starts to read at the first page she comes to. The Reading almost hits home. It reads : DEALING WITH THE PAST
Anger. It's easy to define: the noise of the soul. Anger.The unseen irritant of the heart. Anger. The relentless invader of silence....
The louder it gets the more desperate we become....
Some of you are thinking.... you don't have any idea how hard my life has been. And you're right, I don't. But I have a very clear idea how miserable your fuure will be unless you deal with your anger.
X-ray the world of the vengeful and behild the tumor of bitterness: black, menacing, malignant.
Carcinoma of the spirit. Its faral fibers creep around the edgh of the heart and ravage it. Yesterday you can't alter, but your reaction to yesterday you can. The past you cannot change, but your response to your past you can. :
Katie stes the book back in the draw and thinks for a long moment. Picking up her cell phone she dials Jason's number and waits. Before the phone even rings 3 times her hangs up. What would she say when she answered? Would he hang up on her? Katie rided her mind of these thoughts. Taking the last item out of her backpack she unwraps it. Gently she lays the dryed roses on her dresser.

~*~Back at the Ranch~*~

*BJ looks up at Mick.* "Mys name is BJ." *BJ holds up his stuffed Monkey* "And this is Mr. Shnuggles." *BJ hops into Micks lap snuggling his head into Micks shoulder.* "Please dont let Stan lock me in the Closet again. Mr.Shnuggles dosent like it dere."

*As Angel and Wes rush across the lawn. Angel burst into the door Making BJ jump and his heart start to race. Once she see the small boy she walks over to him. Bending down to eye level she smiles.* "Hey there little fella."

*BJ dosent reply and burys his face into Micks chest.*

* Angel smiles.* " I see you havea new friend. Where did he come from? Whats going on? I dident even hear a car."

Shock

Becky nods. "Yes, we will have ways we all can keep in touch."

Rosalynn gives Wendy a smile. "I'll miss you too....but I guess for now we'll have to put up with it."

Dinner resumes more solemn than before, but with Becky's effort, the atmosphere picks back up again so everyone can continue to enjoy their evening.


Laura laughs. "You mean Con didn't tell you? That turkey." She shakes her head. "Yeah...he is a good guy..." For just a split second, a look passes through her eyes that reflects almost a sadness, but not quite. Closer to melancholy perhaps. Just as quickly, it's gone. "I miss him around the office, but he's been with Austin quite a while."

The movie finishes a while later, and Laura cleans up, taking the leftovers to the kitchen, leaving the dishes until the morning. "There's clean towels in the bathroom," she directs Katie. "If you need anything at all, just holler loud!" She heads to her bedroom, leaving the door cracked in case she's needed.


Con sees Wes head out the door, and knows he's going after Angel. He stays near the door, and keeps looking out the window, still uneasy.

Mick raises his eyebrows as the boy approaches, and he automatically reaches out to take the letter. Before reading it though, he looks at BJ with compassion. He looked like he was about Dylan's age when he and Jill had divorced. Taking a napkin from the table, he draws BJ in a little closer to wipe his tears. "There, now...what's your name, Bud?" He runs a hand over the child's hair as he unfolds the letter to read, his eyes widening in shock. His voice comes out as a whisper. "It was true...she was our sister...." He lets the letter drop onto the table, still in his hand and he stares at BJ, his mind turned in so many directions, he doesn't know what to do.

Letter

*Rosetta nods at Becky.* " I understand. If you want to talk to me more later so at least I have a number for you guys I will be in my office later. We can only hope this will be over soon and we can all be around eachother again. Its been a long hard road, time time to stop and relax."

*Wendy looks up at Rosalynn her face turning a crimson red. She cant find words to talk. But she pats Rosalynn's hand that says I'll miss ya.*

~*~ At Laura's house~*~

*Katie looks in saprise at Laura.* "Con you your brother? Wow...I guess new that I look closer I see the resembalince." *Katie smiles as she takes a bite of her food.* "Ya Con's a good guy. I dont mind having him as a big brother. Its kind of nice." *Katie eats the rest of her food at the finish there movie.*

~*~Back at the Ranch~*~

*BJ looks up at Con. Alittle intimanated by the man. BJ takes Con's hand and musters up a small.* "Hi" *Inbetween his soft crys. while holding tightly to Mr.Snuggles BJ looks around the room to the now many faces stairing back at him. Catching sight of Mick BJ smiles He looksed almost like Sam. Leting go of Con's hand BJ slowly walks twords Mick eyeing everyone alse. As he walks up to Mick he holds out the letter.* "Sham shaid to give this to someone."

*Wes stands at hearing the tiny voice. He looks at BJ for a moment than leaves the mess hall to find Angel.*

Little Visitor

Tears well up being Becky's eyes, but she remains composed. "Jim and I think it's best... he doesn't want us in the middle of all this, and though we'll be apart, he feels strongly enough about removing me and Rosalynn from the situation that I respect it. If he hadn't gotten involved with Mick back before all this started, the Agency wouldn't be after him and we could all go home, but as it is, it's too dangerous." She plays with her napkin in her lap. "We have a place where we're going, but for safety...we're only telling a couple people. There is someone who will be watching us at all times to make sure we're okay, so both Rosalynn and I feel safe.... We've been talking with someone about it. We can start having a halfway normal life for a while, then when this is all over, we can finally be at peace."
Becky's face shows that a large portion of her wants to stay at the ranch, but she understands and is respecting her husband's wishes. "We've...we've been through this before, but at least this time there is light at the end of the tunnel." She forces a smile. "And we will come visit, I promise."

Rosalynn looks at Wendy, mustering up a smile. "Dad and Clint are staying at the ranch. Dad wanted Clint to get out of the firing line too, but he didn't want to leave...for more reasons than one."


Laura enters the living room with plates in her hand. "Soup's on!" she quips, setting everything down on the coffee table in front of the couch. "Thought we'd eat in here and watch a movie or something." She grins. "It's my nightly routine."

A meow comes from behind her and she turns around. "Oh, Henry I forgot all about you. Come here." She picks up the black and white cat, cuddling him. "Henry, this is Katie...she'll be staying with us for a while." She chuckles, and sets him back down, turning to Katie. "I'll be right back. He's out of food."

Moments later she's back, and plops down on the couch. After a quick prayer of thanks, she turns on the tv to watch a DVD. In the middle of the meal, her phone rings, and she rolls her eyes as she tries to chew what's in her mouth, and she pauses the movie, grinning at Katie. "Hang on." Finally able to answer the phone, she picks it up from the end table by the couch. "Hello?" A smile spreads across her face. "Hey, bro!" She glances in Katie's direction. "Yeah, she made it. ...Hmm? No, tomorrow. Right.... ....Ha, yeah, I'm sure it was an experience. How are things there?" She takes a bite of food. "Oh really...no, I haven't heard anything else. And Jase.... Oh ....Uh-uh...." She smiles again. "Yeah, okay. Nope, just eating and watching a movie. Alright....talk to you later. Bye." She hangs up the phone, sighing with content. "Oh, Con...once a big brother, always a big brother." She grins. "Feels good though. At least Con and I have always been close." She nods to Katie. "He just wanted to make sure you got here okay. I think he's adopted you as his second sister."


Supper is over, and the gang is lingering in the mess hall, talking, playing a card game, or just lounging. Jason and Jade take up residence in the adjoining room to watch a movie, while Clint and Jeff attempt at cleaning up the kitchen.
Austin and Con hang around one of the tables, talking after Con has made his phone call. A noise outside catches his attention...it sounded like voices? Con frowns and listens above the inside noise. Curious, he gets up and goes to the door. Opening it, he glances around for a minute before looking down and realizing there is a child on the porch. He just stands for a moment, too surprised to react.

"Con, what is it?" Austin calls.

Con ignores Austin, and looks around outside....no vehicle...no adult...what was going on? Seeing the tears on the little boy's face, Con masks his concern and squats down in front of him. "Well hi there..." He forces a smile. "Little late for someone your age to be out here all by yourself, isn't it?" He inwardly grimaces. Becky was gone, Mel was gone, Rosetta was gone...Angel! He offers a hand to the little boy. "Why don't you come in here out of the chilly air, hmm?" Leading him inside, he shoots anyone within hearing distance a look that relays he has no idea what's going on, who this kid is or why he's there. "Someone want to go get Angel to make sure this kid is okay? And does anyone know who he is?" He glances over his shoulder, concern twisting his gut. It didn't feel right.

one can only hope

*Rosetta looks saprised.* "You are guys are going to spilt youselfs up again? Where are you guys going to go? Wow Becky...this is sad. But all in all your safty is important and I am happy we could have this dinner together than." *Rosetta smiles at Becky.* "Just dont be strangers for 18 years again ok. Your always welcome at the ranch."

*Wendy's heart becomes heavy Many things running though her mind. She had wanted to get to know Becky and Rosalynn better, but now they would be leaving. Was Clint going with them or was he staying? It was always sad to see people leave the ranch.*

~*~Back at Laura's house~*~

*Katie enters Laura's house in aww. Heading into her room she cant hardly believe it. Its like having your own little apt. Its so big. After unpacking some clothing and puting it away Katie heads back downstairs.* "Laura if you need help let me know." *As Katie looks around the living room she see the pics of Jason and Con. Katie cant help put run her fingers over Jason's face. He looked so happy. Her eyes dift to the pics of Con and Laura. How she missed them both already. Looking around at the rest of the pic Katie wonders if many sometime a pic of herself will be up there too. Part of the family. Without even relizing it Katie's eyes drift back to the pic of Jason. She left him hating her, and she dident like him at that momen eather. Katie searches inside, the feeling was faint being so far away, but non the less Katie could feel Jason was ok. He was sad for some reson, but he wasent in danger. That alone braught comfort to Katie.*

~*~Somewhere Alse~*~

*A few house pass and the sky is all dark now. The only lights visable are the ones from the moon, and the car headlights. Finally the more lights come into view. As Sam pulls off the road she reads the sign* "Welcome to the R/M Ranch." *This was the place. Sam slowly pulls into the driveway. Shuting off her headlights trying to go un-noticed. Shuting off the moter Sam lets out a long sigh*

*As the motar stops BJ wakes. Rubbing his eyes he asks.* "Is we there now?"

*Sam replys with a slightly sad tone.* "We are."

*BJ lets out a tiny squeel of excitment.*

*Sam gets out of the car and opens BJ's door. Bending down to unhook him her eyes linger on him for a minute a singel tear rolls down her face.*

*As BJ looks up he see Sam's tear.* "Whats wrong Sham?"

*Sam trys to smile as she unhooks him.* "I'm going to miss you buddy."

*As BJ hops out of the car his eyes grow wide.* "Your not shaying with me Sham?"

*Sam's eyes tell no likes but to a child he wouldent not know the differinct.* "I can't buddy. But the people here are good people. They will love you as much as I do. This is where you belong. There is a girl in there that loves you and misses you horrably though you dont know her."

*BJ wraps his arms around Sam's neck.* " I dont want to leave you." *Small tears start to roll down his tiny face* "I dont want to Sham."

*Sam hugs BJ.* " I know buddy, I know. But you have to." *Sam lets go of BJ and grabs his other bags out of the trunk.* "Come on stay close and stay quiet ok." *Sam and BJ starts to walk up the driveway. Seeing lights on in the mess hall Sam heads that way with BJ. Puting BJ's bags down in the grass Sam sits on the steps BJ close.* " You be a good boy ok BJ."

*BJ nods his tears welling up.*

*Sam takes a pic out of BJ's bag.* "This is for you. So you can always remember me. And never forget I'll ways be with you here." *Sam points to BJ's heart. Taking the pic she places it back into BJ's bag.* " Now BJ you need to listen to me ok. After you see my pull out of the driveway you need to knock on this door here and whoever answers you need to give them this." *Sam hands the note to BJ.*

*BJ looks at the letter than back to Sam as he holds Mr.Snuggles.* "Will I seen you aden Sham?"

*Sam musters a smile.* " We can only hope." *Sam stands and kiss BJ on the head.* " I love you buddy." *Sam starts to walk away.*

*BJ runs off the porch and clings to Sam. He starts to cry.* "NO SHAM NO...DONT LEAVE."

*Sam cant looks down at BJ or she never would leave. Taking him by the hand she takes him back to the porch.* "NO BJ, you need to stay here please." *Once again Sam starts to head down the driveway leaving BJ wailing on the porch. Sam picks up the pase to get back to the car before anyone knows she is there. Backing out of the drive way she looks back at BJ one more time. Her own tears rolling off her face now. Sam whispers.* "Please keep him safe."

*As BJ watches Sam pull out of the driveway he cant stop his tears. His eyes big. Finally he is left in the dark the only light was from the Mess hall windows. Turning around BJ remembers Sam words and holds the letter. Softly he knocks on the door and waits.*

{Sam's letter reads: To whom is may consern, By the time you read this letter, I will be leading the Agency away from this ranch. My name is Sam and this small boy is BJ. You guys dont know who I am but have seen me. I am Mick and Annie's Triplet. I was raised myself by the Angency and when old enough started to work for the Agency. I was in charge of keeping BJ safe till finally I relized myself this was not right to him and wanted to get him out. I new he would be safe with you guys Also he is the key you are looking for. BJ himself holds the key to the computer chips in his brain. He's very important to the Agency for one reson, but to some of you He is important for many more resons. I know this is crazy and you all dont understand. I dont understand really myself and am having a hard time writing this letter. All I know is I wanted BJ safe and to have a chanse at a life I never did. The Agency will stop at nothing to get BJ back and if I am caught I will surly die. But I am not scaired. Knowing BJ is safe will let me die in peace for i will never give up his location to them. Please keep him safe and love him all you can. Thank you. Signed, Samantha Lynn Henson}

Pictures

When evening arrives, the women head out for supper in a couple vehicles. Arriving at the restaurant, they find a big round table to sit out, and the chatter starts immediately.
They order their food while laughing, talking and relaxing away from the stress of the case at the ranch.
During the meal, there is a lull in conversation, and Becky finally looks up, becoming more serious.
“Um…since almost all of us are here…I have something that I need to tell you.” She looks at Rosalynn, who gives her an encouraging nod. “Jim, Rosalynn, Clint and I have been talking a lot the last few days, and Jim feels very strongly about making sure that Rosalynn and I are safe. We talked about going back home at one point, but because the Agency will still be after Jim, we felt it wasn’t wise. However…” She swallows hard. “We have found a safe location for Rosalynn and I to go.”


Jason picks at his food, not very hungry. Jeff’s cooking was good, but no matter the taste, he just wasn’t in the mood. He stops and looks around the room. Most of the women are gone, but there’s an emptiness there apart from that…something is missing…. Looking down at his plate, he admits to himself that the “something” is Katie.


Laura takes Katie to the mall and shows her around, laid back about time, in no hurry, and they pick up something to take back home for supper.
They get back to Laura’s apartment and she helps Katie get her stuff inside, and into the nice guest room. Her apartment is good-sized, neat and clean.
Laura starts getting the food ready in the kitchen and calls to Katie. “Make yourself at home!”
The living room is tidy, and one wall is adorned with shelves of pictures. Many of the faces in them are recognized from TJY, while others appear to be family. Two faces in particular show up more times than any others - Jason’s and Con’s. A large frame in the middle shows a photo that caught the image of what appears to be a summer picnic with many people in the background. Jason is in the forefront in a t-shirt, cutoffs and bare feet, sun glass set up on his head, and he's just having let go of a frisbee that’s waiting to be caught by Laura, while Con is diving to catch it as well. One could almost feel the smile on the photographer’s face.
More pictures of Laura and Con together are interspersed throughout, most scenes caught at events.

feels good

*Wendy giggles and puts her other arm around Clint wast. How happy she was God let her find Clint that day that seemed so long ago.*

*Rosetta nods to Becky* "Ok not a problem. See ya two soon." *A strange feeling comes over Rosetta as Becky leaves.*

~*~Back at TJY~*~

*Katie smiles at Laura as they head for the elevator.* "Ya he is great. He's become like a big brother to me." *Katie hops into Laura's car.* "Ya, I just want to get some new clothing for work. I am worry about geting stuff for my room after I see what is looks like." *Katie giggles* "I am starting to feel alittle bit excited. I was worryed at first and I feel sad, but I think this is going to do some good." *Katie face breaks into a smile. The first one since before she left the ranch.*

Calls

Clint grins and throws an arm around Wendy’s shoulders to drag her towards the door. “Alright, you grease monkey, you…come on.”

Becky looks down for a moment, then back up to Rosetta. “No…we’ll wait for tonight, if it’s all the same. No need to repeat things to the others.” She forces a smile. “Jim and I just made some decisions we need to share, that’s all.” She turns to go. “I’ll let Rosalynn know that we’ll be going. We’ll meet you later in the mess hall before leaving.”


Con flips his phone shut and puts it back on his belt, smiling to himself. He sighs with content, knowing Katie is safe.


Laura smiles as she realizes Katie has called Con, and she waits patiently for her. She nods when Katie is ready, and heads to the door. “Con’s a great guy, isn’t he?” She holds the elevator door for her, heading back upstairs. “Oh, I’ve got a key for Scott’s car, so we’re good to go.”
Once in the parking lot, Laura’s cell phone rings. She rolls her eyes, taking it out of her purse as they walk. “Yeah, hello? Yes, this is Laura Gibbs. Uh-huh. Yeah, that’s fine. Go for it. Alright, talk to you later.” Stuffing the phone back in her purse, she shakes her head. “You’d think some people would be grown up enough not to need me to make all their decisions for them.” She chuckles, and opens Scott’s car, helping get Katie’s bags out.
Once they’re put into her own car’s trunk, they’re on their way. “Okay, you said you wanted to go to the mall, right?”

Looking forword

*Wendy stands walks forword with Clint.* " I need a break from this. Maybe I can even help you guys. Hand you a wrench or something." *Wendy smiles.* " I think it would be nice to watch alittle."

*Rosetta nods to Becky* "We would like to have you both to come along. It will be a good time." *Rosetta eyes brows go up slightly as Becky mentions telling them somehting.* " If you want you can take a seat and tell me whats on your mind. Those chairs there are mighty comfortable."

~*~Back at TJY~*~

*Katie turns as Laura comes up behind her.* " Ya I am as ready as I ever will be. I guess we should find Scott my stuff is still in his car." *Katie smiles at Laura. KAtie was starting to feel a bit of excitment.* " I just have to make a phone call fast if thats ok." *Katie pulls out her phone and dials Con's number as she walks away.* "Hey Con, its Katie....heya..Ya I made it ok. Yep I am at TJY now and Laura and I are about to leave to go up to the mall than to her place. Hows everything there? Well tell everyone at dinner i said Hi. Ok Con I'll be in touch again. See ya." *KAtie hangs up her phone again and finds Laura.* "Ok I am ready."

~*~Somewhere Alse~*~

*As the sun starts to set the sky turns a lightshade of Pink and purple. As Sam drives away from the last town till there destanation her heart races. Looking into the back seat Sam eyes BJ looking out the window intently. How she was going to miss the little squirt. In a few hours they would be at the ranch and Sam probley would never see BJ again. She was happy and sad at the same time. BJ had become like her own. She wanted what was best for him, and she new this way. The Agency wouldent think to look here and she would be leading them in the other direction anyways. Sam new he would be in good hands too. BJ WOULD get a chanse at life. He wouldent be stuck in the Agency's grasp like she was. No she wouldent let that happen.*

Little Progress

Clint is thoughtful for several moments, absorbing the sobering truth. "Yeah...the more I see what a mess this whole thing is, the more respect I have for the previous generation...I just can't believe how few leads there are, even after all these years. And then...for the Agency continually lying dormant until just popping up briefly to cause havoc, only to disappear again. Their pattern doesn't even make any sense." He shakes his head and sighs, giving Wendy's shoulders a final squeeze. "I'm just taking a break. Wes and I are trying to get a car fixed once and for all, so I'd better head back out. You can come watch if you want, though I'm not sure you want to get in the way of the two of us while we're working." He grins, turning to leave.

Cindy agrees to be ready to go at 5, looking forward to the evening. She eventually sees Becky and lets her know in case she wants to come.
It's a while later that Becky finds Rosetta in her office, and enters after knocking. "Hey, Rosetta...Cindy just told me about tonight. Rosalynn and I would love to join you if it's okay." She smiles, though there is something lurking behind her eyes. "We, um...she and I would like to tell you all something too."

When Jason is left alone once again, he thinks through his conversation with Austin. How much he wanted just to feel good again. But he was too full of anger and misery. Too many things had gone wrong. Had they all been his own fault? Or were they just life's circumstances? Could he have changed any of it?
He looks back to his computer as new information loads. He's successfully hacked into a database, the origin of which he's unsure, but a hunch had led him there. He scans several profiles until a name jumps out at him. He's seen that name before...somewhere... Making a mental note to go back through some old files, he saves the information.
Sighing, he turns off the computer. Supper would be soon...and he needed to eat. Any embarrassment or hesitance to see the others has dwindled, so the thought of interacting isn't quite as repulsive tonight.

Con leans back in a mess hall chair, his hands folded behind his head, his eyes closed as he thinks. This case has dragged on forever, and nothing was happening. He could feel the attitudes of those around him, and knew that many were wondering if staying here was even worth it any more. The air was getting stale...the Agency was hiding again. It was possible to dig deeper in order to get closer to the Agency, but there was too much risk. Any time that had been tried before ample information had been gathered, disaster had struck. So they waited... Con missed being back at TJY, though he did enjoy it here at the ranch. He was fulfilling his duty, and he supposed that was the most important thing.
Yawning, he glances at his watch, his mind wandering to Katie. No new was good news...if Katie hadn't made it to TJY, Reese would have called him. Despite that knowledge though, Con was just a little anxious to hear from her himself to know she was okay.


"Hey." Laura comes up behind Katie, her jacket on, and purse in hand, and a friendly smile on her face. "I've got my work done for today, so I thought we'd head out early. You ready?"

Mixed emotions

*Trish nods to Laura* "Ok, give me a call later and we can set something up. Guess I should get back to work." *Trish turns and heads back to her small cubical*

~*~Back at the Ranch~*~

*Wendy smiles up at Clint.* " Your so smart. I just wish we could find the link we need to make this over with for everyone.I dont know how they did it all these years. Knowing day by day something could happen. Thats a crappy way to live." *Wendy lets out a long sigh.* "So what are you up to now and would you like some company?"

*Rosetta smiles and nods* "I think we will be heading out about 5. I asked Angel to come and she said she was busy tonight. She has alot of paper work to do. and I was going to ask Wendy,JAde, and becky but I havent seen them around. If you happen to see them before me go a head and ask. You dont have to get dressed up its not going to be anything fancy." *Looking around the mess hall she see Wendy at the table with Clint. She gives a small laugh to herself.* "I guess she wont be coming maybe. She is glued to that boy."

~*~Back at TJY~*~

*As Katie walks around the office trying to get her barrings she stops at a window. Looking out she can see a rainbow in the sky. Had it been raining? She dident even relize it was. Memories of the rainbow she saw with Jason come back to her. Katie's heart acks. she had lost her best friend. Right now she was in so much term oil she wasent sure how to feel about anything. What she did felt right but had she over reacted? Everything was still fresh and new in her mind. Katie hopes as the days went by in TJY things would become easyer.*

Reasons

Reese grins as Katie leaves, finding her calling his twenty-two-year-old son a kid amusing. He sits back in his chair and thinks for several minutes contemplating Katie's role here, and finally gets up and goes into Carter's office, closing the door.

Susanne returns Katie's smile and offers her assistance if Katie needs anything.


Laura gives a little smirk. Despite Jason's popularity and well-known skills, there were a few around the office who would agree with Trish. For some reason, Laura always ended up on the defense. "Yeah, well, don't sell him short. He didn't get where he is without knowing he wanted it. Family relations aside, if he keeps on going, mark my words, he's going to be a legend around here. He's already halfway there." She shrugs. "Besides that, no one really knows why Jason couldn't take on a partner before - he never talked about it, and there were just a bunch of rumors." She lets a chuckle escape. "Not that rumors ever fly around here!"
Shaking her head, she grabs a stack of papers on her desk. "I think going out and doing something with Katie is a wonderful idea. Goodness knows that starting out at a place like this can be a little overwhelming."


On a break from working with Wes, Clint sees Wendy, and walks quietly up behind her. Seeing her tension, he rests his hands on her shoulders to give them a soft massage. "Hey...give it a rest for a while. Dad told me the other day that when they were working on this case before, sometimes they'd go for months without finding a thing. It's the nature of the beast."


Cindy puts down her book and smiles. "That would be great." She nods. "I could use that. Just let me know when to be ready. Anyone else coming along?"


Jason sits in his bunk at his computer, searching through records, and trying to hack into a system he didn't recognize that looked suspicious. But despite his determination to focus, his mind continued to wander. A knock at the door startles him. "Yeah?"

Austin enters slowly, shutting the door behind himself, and going to the edge of the bed to sit down near Jason. "How ya doing?"

Jason quirks a skeptical eyebrow as he turns in his seat. "That's quite a question since you've been avoiding me for weeks."

Austin starts to argue the fact that Jason hasn't made much effort himself, but he holds it back. "Look, I'm tired of this. We both know I don't agree with the way you've been handling things lately, but we're still on this case, and you're still my grandson." The look in his eye proves that he's truly been thinking things through, and is tired of the rift. "What happened is water under the bridge, and I want to quit this silly war."

Jason swallows hard and looks down. His pride wanted him to continue to defend himself until Austin admitted that he was wrong, but good sense reminds him that he's been miserable and this is a way to help fix some of that. "Alright." He looks back up at Austin. "It's over."

"Good." Austin nods, pleased. He pauses, searching Jason's face. "What's wrong, Jase? What's been bothering you so much?"

"I don't know." Jason turns back to his computer. "Just...everything."

"You seem happy with Jade."

"Yeah..." Jason nods decisively. "I am."

Austin hesitates before his next statement. "Con told me about Katie."

Jason shrugs. "Yeah? So?"

Austin rolls his eyes. "You're not bothered by her going to TJY?"

"It's what she wanted," Jason replies flatly. "I wouldn't want to be accused again of denying her her dreams, so how would you expect me to act?"

Austin studies Jason for several moments. "You know, Jase... when I first found you, I knew you were special...there was something about you that I knew once it was tapped into, you'd be unstoppable. You proved it to me when I introduced you to TJY. You weren't even in high school yet, but by the time you were seventeen, you were competing with the guys on the shooting range, hacking into computer systems, and going undercover on multiple cases. You rose faster than anyone else at TJY. When most people took three years to gain a ranking, you accomplished it in just over one. You had a gift, and you allowed your talents to be channeled and fine-tuned." Austin's eyes show he's replaying the past in his mind. "You've only been involved with TJY for five years - only two of those have been full-time after you finished school. But you've proven yourself again and again out on the field and at headquarters. Everyone knows it, and you know good and well that you've got quite a reputation back at headquarters."

Though Jason keeps his eyes on his computer, he allows himself to listen as Austin continues.

"We both know it hasn't all been easy - we've all had our struggles...maybe I forced you to grow up too quickly. Maybe the times we've run into trouble has been because I pushed to you too much too fast. But regardless, you've risen to the top, and you were sent out with me because we needed someone like you out here. But Jase..." Austin looks at him with concern. "What's happened? Has it been too much for you? Ever since we got here, you've been indecisive... temperamental...was it something I did?"

For some reason, Jason can feel his emotions starting to flare up again. Everything had been so difficult lately. When he'd been back at TJY, he felt as if he could take on the world. But being here...it felt as if he was pulling uphill in the wrong direction all the time. "It's not like I haven't had a lot on my mind," he subtly defends.

"I know it..." Austin nods. "Dealing with the crap of your past couldn't have been easy, and I know it was hard on you. But you were granted the chance to walk away and you removed yourself for a while, but came back on your own terms."

"I wasn't taught to let things go unfinished."

"That's true. But I just can't figure you out anymore. One minute you fight tooth and toenail to stay on this case - to the point of ignoring protocol in order to have a suspension revoked. Then the next you're hibernating in your bunk, not wanting anything to do with anybody." Austin doesn't want to be mean, but he just wants to get to the bottom of things. "What's wrong, Jason?"

"I don't know." Jason finally swivels around to face his grandfather, emotion pooling in his eyes. "Just...first I was dealing with all that stuff about Alex, and then when that was over, I thought I was alright. And then things with Katie started to get complicated..." He rolls his eyes. "Then I went and got myself kidnapped, and that whole thing just screwed everything up again.... I thought I was alright until I found out about my suspension, and I know why it was done, but I didn't agree with it, so I guess I just threw caution out the window so I could get back what I wanted..." He pauses, finding it hard to believe how many things have gone wrong. "Then things with Katie got even more complicated..." His face reddens slightly. "And you were mad at me, and Con wasn't thrilled himself. Then I went and made a mess out of things by not telling Katie about Carter's offer, which just made things all the more worse. Now I'm sitting here wishing I'd never come." He turns back to his computer, unable to keep looking at Austin. "If it weren't for Jade, all I'd want to do was go back to TJY, and forget this whole thing. I miss my coworkers and I miss my office. I miss sleeping in my own bed at night."

Austin lifts his eyebrows, though he knows exactly how Jason feels. He's been there before. It was apparent that his grandson was simply caught in a rut, trying desperately to get out. But who could tell a twenty-year-old how to conquer it? It was something he had to learn on his own. "Well you can still back out of this case."

"Right." Jason shakes his head. "I can't do that. I've stated too many times that I'm committed to helping these people, and I've put too much of a fuss over staying, not to do it now. Maybe it's pride, but I can't make myself look like any more of a fool than I already have."

Changing

*Trish nods as she listens to Laura.* "Well thats Hotshot for ya he never knows what he wants. Half the time he dosent even know if he is coming or going himself. Maybe there is more to Katie being here than meets the eye." *Trish shrugs* "Anyways...tomarrow maybe we can all go do something after work. Maybe we can help Katie feel at home. She seems a bit uptight.*

*Katie nods to Reese.* "Its good to be here again. Though it feels strange not barging through your door." *Katie gives alittle smile. Trying not to let the hurt show through.* "You never know Reese maybe things will change down the road. You never know." *Katie changes the subject fast.* "Yes Wyatt should be around. He seems like a nice kid. Looks just like you. Now I know why." *Katie gives a small laugh.* "I want to thank you for giving me this opertunity to show some of the skills I have. I apprieciate it even though its not what Carter and yourself had planed." *After a moment more of talking with Reese, Katie turns and leaves the office giving a smile to Susanne as she leaves. Walking around the floor for a while Katie trys to get use to everthing.*

~*~Back at the Ranch~*~

*Wendy sits deep in though searching through some files. Her mind skips from here to there looking over the information. She is unable to find anything new. Going to another file she trys to look for more. Feeling frustrated she throws the files down and puts hands over her face.*

*Rosetta finds Cindy siting at one of the tables in the mess hall.* "Heya. I hope I'm not intarupting you. I was wondering if you would like to do that girls night out tonight? I could use alittle change and I need another mother to talk with." *Rosetta smiles at Cindy.*

Guessing

Laura readily agrees. "Oh yeah, sure. We can go anywhere you need before heading to my place."

After going through Susanne, Wyatt opens the door to Reese's office, letting Katie in first. "I'll leave you two at it. Dad, I'll be stepping out for a while."

Reese gives a casual wave to Wyatt. "Alright. See you later." He stands up from his desk to greet Katie. "Well, glad you made it! I trust you got shown around. After I sent Scott after you, I hoped you would get here in one piece." He chuckles. "Anyway, today I'd like you to just get your bearings. Meet people, explore the floor. Tomorrow I'll get you started on the work that needs to be done." He sighs just a little. "I was hoping that you and Jason would stay on the Agency case, but I'm glad to have you here nonetheless." His assumptions show through. "We tried setting Jason up with a partner once before but they couldn't get along, so this isn't new. Though Carter and I both prefer teams to loners." He shakes his head. "Anyway, Tomorrow you'll get immersed into the secretarial work I've got lined up for you, and we'll go from there."


Laura nods to Trish. "Yeah...Katie. She and Jason were just here recently...I heard Carter wanted them to be partners, but the talk around here has been that they couldn't get along." She frowns, not convinced. "They looked like they got along alright when they were here though, so I don't know. Brent said he thought Jason was gonna get sacked, but we all know that's not true, even after his suspension. He's too valuable for Carter to sack." She shrugs. "Anyway, yeah, Katie seems nice. She'll be staying with me for a bit."

Office

*Katie follows Wyatt around trying to take everything in. As they pass Jason's office door her hear rises than sinks again everything fresh in her mind still. As Laura walks over to them Katie smiles.* "Thank you Laura for everything. It mean alot. Just when every you leave tonight let me know I can get my two bags out of Scott's car. Oh maybe later if we have time you could show me where the mall is? I left alot of my stuff home and need to get more." *Katie once again follows Wyatt to Reese office.*

*Trish walks over to Laura as Katie walks away.* "That the new girl? She seems intresting."

Tour

Wyatt grins and motions for Katie to follow him. "Won't take you long to know this floor like the back of your hand." He walks her down the right aisle in between cubicles, introducing her to people along the way. Everyone offers warm smiles and waves, most seeming to already know who she is.
Wyatt leads her around the corner where a hallway is. "Over here on the right is where we have the copy machines, paper supplies, etc." He reaches for the doorknob, but a loud crash is heard inside, followed by a woman's chiding voice, and Scott's apologies. Wyatt's eyes widen and he doesn't open the door. "I'll introduce you to Wanda later." He moves down the hall. "These doors on the left are offices..."
The first door's nameplate bears Austin's name, the one next to it, someone named Sean, and the third door bears Jason's name. Wyatt thumbs to that door in particular. "I'd show you in there since you know him, but I doubt you want to see the kind of office Hotshot keeps." He rolls his eyes in amusement. "And right here is the break room...we've got a fridge and microwave and some tables to relax at. It's the main hangout around the noon hour if you want to get a hold of the local gossip."
Moving on, there are several more office, including his own, and finally they turn around and head back out onto the floor, going down the other aisle.
Halfway to the back, Laura spots them and gives Katie a smile. "Hey there! Good to see you again. Reese told me you were coming today. Bummer Hotshot didn't make it back, but I'm glad you're here." She throws some paperwork onto her desk in the cubicle. "Got my spare room all set for you too, so tonight we'll be all set." She thumbs toward the back. "Reese is out of his meeting now if you want to go check in with him."
Wyatt nods, gesturing to Katie again. "I'll drop you off there."

TJY

*As Katie keeps her focuse out the window she replys to Scott.* "I've only ever had to use it with Jason. So I dont know if it works with anyone alse or not. Sooner or later I am sure I will find out now I guess." *Katie watches as they pull into TJY.*

*Katie follows Scott as the head down the elevator. As Scott is stoped by the new gentalman. As Scott goes off to help with the copy mashean Katie cant help but laugh.* "He sure is an intresting person. Alittle accident prone. Thanks for saving me." *Katie giggles. Turning back to the stranger Katie shakes his hand.* "Its nice to meet you Wyatt. That would be nice to actully get a tour this time." *Katie smiles at Wyatt.*

New Face

After getting his tie caught in the door and tangling his arm in the seatbelt, Scott drives his beater car away from the airport. He offers Katie what he hopes is an encouraging smile. "Well, TJY can be a little intimidating at first, but you'll get used to it." He pauses in thought. "I'm assuming you're talking about Jason. Rumors had it you two were going to be partners, but then Reese told me this morning you were coming in yourself." He stops at a red light and waits for it to turn green. "Heard you got quite the sixth sense...does it just work with Jason, or can you do that with anybody?"

After pulling into the TJY parking lot, Scott gets out, tripping over a loose shoelace. "You can keep your stuff in here until you leave later with Laura," he comments, heading for the door.
Once inside, they go down the elevator and onto the floor. It's not quite as busy as the night Katie and Jason were there, but there are still plenty of people in their cubicles. Scott stands a little proudly, as if surveying his domain. "Might as well start you off with the grand tour before going to see Reese. He's in a meeting anyway." He starts to stroll down the right aisle, and begins to point something out, but is cut off.

"Hey, Scott, the copy machine is down," a man calls as he approaches. "Wanda needs help."

Scott looks at Katie, then back at the approaching young man. "Well I was just..."

"...Don't worry, I'll take care of her." The tall stranger throws Katie a wink when Scott isn't looking. "Wanda's going to have a cow if she can't make copies of those reports."

"...I guess...okay..." Scott nods to Katie. "I'll see you around." Walking quickly ahead, he almost runs into someone emerging from their cubicle, and papers and folders go flying.

The stranger cringes, stifling a laugh, and turns back around to Katie, offering a strong handshake, his eyes twinkling. "Hey. I'm Wyatt. You must be Katie. Sorry about interrupting, but I wasn't about to watch you get taken on one of Scott's 'grand tours.' You'd be in here all day." His eyes widen with humor as he chuckles. "Besides that, I wanted the pleasure of showing you around myself. How 'bout it?"