Tragedy

“Alright…I’ll keep up the exercises…and I’ll think about using a cane.” Luke tries not to allow his situation create despair, and can simply be thankful for someone like Angel. “I’ve said it before and I’ll say it again…I don’t know what I did to deserve a woman like you.” He reaches out to pull her down into a hug, then a tender kiss, drawing away just enough so he can see her eyes. “Thank you…I promise not to hide this from you any more.”


Wyatt chuckles. “Alright. It’s agreed. We share.” He opens the door to the café. “But you’re going to pick the table we sit at, so I can choose to pick up the tab.”
Their luncheon is shared with light conversation, avoiding any heavy topics, and filled with humor and banter.
When finished, Wyatt walks Katie back to TJY, then gives her a lift back to Laura’s before returning to finish out his work day.


Nine o’clock
A silent figure darts through the shadows, undetected by eyes or ears. It makes its way around the house, slowly doing its deed to the extend it has been ordered. They are only visible in a single instant when a match is lit before they again disappear through the back yard.

Jason is lost in a deep sleep. The pills he’d taken for his headache had knocked him out, and the afternoon had slipped by unnoticed into the dark evening.
Trooper whines and nudges his hand. Not getting a response, he licks it, still whining.
Jason moans and rolls over. “Go lay down,” he mumbles drowsily.
Trooper doesn’t give up, but goes to the other side of the bed, getting both front paws onto the mattress, taking Jason’s blanket in his teeth and dragging it onto the floor before letting out a bark.
“I said go lay down!” Jason snaps at him.
Trooper ignores the command and barks again, this time several times in a row.
Jason is just about ready to throw a pillow at the dog, when he suddenly feels an overwhelming sense of danger. Sitting up in bed it takes him a moment to realize that the fog he sees isn’t in his mind – there is smoke everywhere, and his eyes already start to water. “Oh no.”
Barely taking time to throw on his jeans, flannel shirt and boots, he goes for his door, Trooper whining at his heels. Feeling the doorknob, he finds it warm, but not so hot that he can’t touch it, and he risks opening it. Horror fills his veins. It’s not just his bedroom that’s at risk, but the entire house. Flames are everywhere, smoke filling every crack and crevice. Jason could barely see down the hall. He backs up into his room to head for his window, but flames have already reached it, providing a dangerous escape route.
Hardly able to believe what’s happening, though now fully awake, Jason heads back to the hall, taking Trooper by the collar for support as he limps.
He covers his mouth with his sleeve, starting to cough from the noxious fumes. Making it to the living room, he hasn’t time to dwell on all the items that are burning as part of the ceiling caves in, missing him by inches. Trooper jumps to the side, knocking Jason off balance and he falls to the floor.
Coughing, he crawls forward, barely able to see through the smoke and the tears it produced. His hand reaches tile. He’s in the kitchen with only feet to go. “Trooper!” he yells. “Come on!”
Trooper is right behind him, going for the door.
Using the dog as leverage to stand, Jason reaches the door and opens it quickly. The porch is engulfed in fire. But he’s made it too far now to stop.
Ignoring the pain in his leg, Jason takes two strides to make it across the flaming porch, landing in the yard hard enough to bring him to his knees as he rolls on impact.
Groaning, he can hear sirens. Someone had already called the fire department. And no wonder…
Jason manages to get to his feet and back away from the intense heat. He can’t believe his eyes. The whole house was in flames.
As the firefighters arrive, they move past Jason to start working on putting the fire out. Neighbors exit their own houses to ensure their own safety, lest the flames spread. Water goes everywhere. There is noise and chaos. And in the middle, Jason stands, in stunned silence.

“Hey, you okay?”

“Huh?” Jason turns to a firefighter.

“I said are you okay?”

“Um, yeah.”

“Is there anyone else in the house?”

Jason shakes his head numbly. “No…it was just me.”

“Do you have family? Do you need to call someone?”

Jason shakes his head again, not thinking things through. “No, not…not yet…I mean…no.”

The flames reflect in his eyes as he watches his childhood being destroyed forever. The firefighters were working hard, but it was obvious that nothing was going to be saved. There was just too much fire.

Everything was gone. Jason can feel his stomach tightening into knots. His mother’s belongings…pictures…music…oh, all of his music was gone…all his memories…everything. Gone.

It’s not long before the house is a smoldering heap of blackened wood, bent metal and melted plastic. The putrid smell wafts through the think night air. And Jason stands alone. He had refused a ride anywhere, too stunned and numb to want anything. He was supposed to give an account to local authorities tomorrow. That’s all he knew…
He’d been told to call someone, friends or family, but he’d refused that as well. Whether it was utter disbelief for what had happened, or the want to be alone in his misery, he didn’t know.

After standing for a long while, Jason finally turns and heads down the sidewalk. He’s just glad that the pair of jeans he had grabbed had his wallet and keys. He would need his ID to get into TJY…someone was always around overnight…and it was only eleven o’clock. He’d get there in about forty-five minutes at this pace, and if his knee held up.
Trooper walks obediently at his heel, seeming to sense the despondency in his master. Jason doesn’t keep too wary of an eye out for any attackers. He was confident that after tonight, they would wait to strike again at least a day.

Holding Hands In Life

*Angel sighs and shakes her head.* " I know the weather dosent help, and I know its hard. I think its come to the point too every morning and night you going to need to rub them down." *Angel can feel him flinch but keeps rubbing.* "The muscles are geting way to tight and thats not helping anything. I am going to get you a cane, or a wheelchair as well. I know your gonna hate using them but you need help for times like this." *Finally Angel stops rubbing feeling that Lukes legs are lucened up now. Now relizing he dosent have a shirt on she blushes.* " I know you dont like me to see you this way but Luke. Once we are married Iam gonna probley see you alot more like this. I want to help. Please dont hide it from me."

*Rosetta nods to Mick and puts her hand on his.* " I know, and the innocent that have to come along too." *Rosetta glances at BJ as he plays on the carpet with Jeff.* " But, hopefuly this will end soon." *Rosetta smiles at Mick.*

*Katie smiles as Wyatt accepts what she has said. It was a good feeling knowing he trusted her and accepted her for this. Katie giggles and smiles at Wyatt taking his hand.* " I would be honnered to go on a casule date with you Wyatt. As just so you know. I dont want to call ALL the shots. We need to work as a team." *Katie cant help but smile even more.* "Chanses it what helps us grow right. I'm glad I get to shair them on you." *Katie enters the Cafe with Wyatt looks at the menu.*

Casual

Luke sighs, letting his forced smile fade. “I’m sorry, I just…I know you’re with me through thick and thin, I just still hate you seeing me like this…when I feel so helpless.”
He tries to relax as she works on his legs. “I’ve kept up with them as much as I can…but it’s been a little hard lately, and the weather changing doesn’t help things much.” He winces as he experiences a spasm in his back. “A couple years ago I was down for two weeks…I didn’t think I was going to recover from that one, but Kyle was finally able to get me up and around again.” What feels like an electrical shock runs down the back of his leg Angel’s rubbing, and he flinches.

Mick raises his eyebrows at the new information. “Wow. A nephew, huh? That’s interesting.” He reaches over to see some of the papers more clearly. “I wonder if we’ll ever really know the extent of our families,” he muses. He takes a glance in Dylan’s direction again. “I just hope my own kids don’t get dragged into this any more than they already have. It’s dangerous just having had contact with me.”


Wyatt listens with compassion, having had no idea the history between Katie and Jason. He could tell there was some tension between the two when Jason had come back to TJY, but he never would have guessed that they’d had such a harsh parting. The news that Jason had had another girl was slightly startling as he’d never seen his friend pursue any girl at all, let alone to that extend. The fact that Katie had been upset was indeed a sign that she had cared for Jason on a deeper level, even if it hadn’t been returned.
Wyatt’s heart goes out to Katie…not only for what’s happened, but for her willingness to share with him now. She’d obviously been through a lot, emotionally. He still knew so little about her…but was catching a glimpse of her heart now. She was strong, yet delicate. Determined, but weakened by her own compassion. And she was above reproach, that much was obvious. Wyatt could no more accuse her of making unwise decisions with Jason overnight than he could Laura.
He gives a little grin as she pays him compliments, though he takes on no embarrassment. He’s enjoying her honesty too much.
He stops and looks at her, cocking his head slightly as she admits the same as what he’s feeling. “Thank you, Katie…for being honest and sharing with me. I had no idea, and I’m sorry for thinking badly of you this morning. I don’t understand what you and Jason have, but I’m okay with that, and I can’t help but trust your words, no matter what appearances say.”
Wyatt pauses, pursing his lips in thought, though letting his grin show through. “Alright then…” He holds out his hand. “Shall we walk into the café for an extremely casual date then?” His grin becomes a smile, though his tone is still serious. “And just so you know, you’re calling all the shots. We move no faster than you’re comfortable with, and I’m very okay with that.”

What is to come

*Katie listens for along while. As Wyatt stops her she looks up into his eyes. Katie can see his intrest and longing to trust. What did she want. She new she liked Wyatt and would like to pursew more with him She did like Jason as well but Jason had said once before he wanted nothing more with her but a friendship and that was made clear at the ranch. So her liking for Jason was put on the back burner and her heart closed off to anything more than a friendship in fear of being hurt again. Slowly Katie speaks to Wyatt trying to sort through her own thoughts and feelings making sure she dosent say the wrong thing to Wyatt.* " Well...first I would like to say is. Since I met Jason I always had a connection with him. I dont know how or why. But its like something you would only see in the movies I guess. When Jason is hurt, in danger, or his emotions about the past are geting the better of him I can feel it. I know when something bad happens to him or if he is hurt. I could never let those feelings just pass by eather. If something happend to Jason and I new I could have stoped it I would feel horrable. Thats why I was with Jason lastnight Wyatt. I new something was wrong and like I said before when I called and got no answer I thought something was wrong. So I made sure he was ok." *Katie takes a deep breath as she thinks once again about what to say next.* " Lets see next topic." *Katie cant help but laugh trying to let the tention go she is feeling. It was always hard for her to talk to someone about her emotions besides Jason.* " As for my feeling for Jason, when I first met him did I like him yes I did alot. I thought maybe there was a chanse he liked me as well, but I was wrong." *Katie starts to walk again. Reliving the last was hard. The words, the hurt it was never easy.* " Everything blew up at once. Jason ended up going to some silly dance with Jade and than after I went to see if he had a nice time and i saw them kiss rather intamitly. It hurt to see that I guess. I Just, I dont know I guess I was wrong for wishing Jason had told me about Jade. But it just would of been nice so I could have stoped chasing something I could never have and stop making myself look like a fool." *Katie lets out a long sigh.* " Than something your dad dosent know is Jason never told me Reese wanted us to be partners. I dident know anything about it I was in the dark. But I happend to over hear Jason and Con talking. I guess Reese had called him to ask if Jason and I had come to a conclution. So...I heard Jason and Con talking and Jason dident want me as a partner cuz I liked him and he thought it was unhealthy so on and so forth. I felt pritty horrable. A few days before that I had gotten a letter from my dad who I hadent hurd from in many many years. I had so much pain inside me from that and what I just hurd I kind of burst. I ended up jumping on the porch slaping Jason he want to swing back I caught his hand and slamed him against the wall and I thretend him telling him if he ever went to swing at me again I would put him in the hospetal myself. I'm asamed by the way I acted but I hurt. That night I ended up calling you dad, asked him it wouldent work with Jason and I and if he needed any help here. a few days later I left. I hadent talked to Jason again untill he came back to TJY. I was pritty hurt by what happend and burned. So I locked those feeling away. I dident want to be hurt again and now, I see Jason as a friend. My heart dosent want to be hurt again so I built walls. Its not the best way to deal with something and sooner or later its going to come crashing down. But its just...something I do." *Again Katie stops talking for a moment catching her breath and trying to work everything out. Stoping she turns to Wyatt and looks at him. Wondering what he is think. Katie wonders if he will run the other way or stick there.* "And now last but certnly not least we have you. You have been nice to me Wyatt since I have been at TJY. I your, fun, very handsome, charming, and someone I like being around. I offten though myself I'd like us to become more than friends,but I wanted to take it slow as well. I dident want to rush anything and lose another friend. Being scared in the past makes you look at things differntly." *Katie stops for a moment something entering her mind. Something was wrong, something had happend. Trying to sort though her mind for what happend the feeling pass. Everything is fine and once again Katies mind is blank of anything being wrong. Once again Katie starts to talk to Wyatt* "So all in all...I feel the same as you do Wyatt. I'd like to pursew something more with you. I really think we hit it off together. And I like to see our relationship grow." *Katie smiles though she is a bit nervice on everything she has told Wyatt.*



*Angel enters Lukes bunk and puts her hands on her hips.* "Dont you smile at me and act like nothing wrong Mr.. When are you gonna stop that and LET me help you. Your stuck with my for the rest of you life you better get use to my help now." *Walking over to the bed Angel pulls Lukes cover off his legs. Reaching down she starts to rub them.* " Luke have you been doing your exersises? Your Muscles are tighting and the bloodflow is no good. You need to keep doing them Luke." *Angel continues to rub Lukes legs loosing them up.*



*As Rosetta sits with Mick she takes a sip of her Coffee and opens the folder showing Mick.* "This is a file on Sam. I was looking through it last night after we got home. It shows a bunch of information about when she was taken, where she grew up. It also says she was married and somewhere out there Mick you have a nephew. There are a bunch more papers here to but I dident get a chanse to look at them yet."

Shot

Jeff grins as he takes charge of BJ, challenging him to a footrace to the mess hall.


Luke looks up quickly at the knock, knowing it must be Angel. He reaches over his head to pull himself up into half a sitting position. “It’s open,” he calls, and places a smile on his face.


Wyatt chuckles, trying to put Katie at ease, and follows her outside. Once there, he takes a deep breath of fresh air and simply walks silently for several minutes before saying what’s on his mind. “Katie…I know you must think that I’ve questioned your integrity and Jason’s too. And I would be dishonest to say that was not true. Though I hope that my human nature has been wrong. And…” he pauses, keeping his eye ahead on their route along the sidewalk. “…I suppose the reason that I hope my nature is wrong is because I like you, Katie.” He throws her a sidelong glance, sure that this news was not new to her, though disliking his own speech, and continues to walk. “I’m glad Reese took you on…you’re a hard worker and a genuine friend. And…” He can’t help but shake his head at himself. He couldn’t deny that he liked Katie…could he deny himself pursuing a relationship if he thought there was a chance she would one day share his Christian beliefs? Was it fair to her to start something he might not want to finish? Yet…if one was not willing to take risks, where was life? “…I guess I’ve wondered about our relationship and what it meant. I’m honored to be your friend…though I can’t say that I have no desire to have something deeper with you…nor would probably any other man, seeing a damsel as pretty as yourself.” He tosses her a wink. “I don’t mean to be so forward, but I guess this morning’s events prompted it.” He stops, reaching out to stop her as well so he can see Katie’s face. “I take nothing quickly, let alone relationships, and could hardly jump into anything without taking a slow pace, so don’t think I mean to go from zero to sixty in one day… One might say I like to ‘take things slow.’ …I suppose just I wonder if you feel the same way about being more than friends…” He searches her eyes. “I don’t want to ruin what we have if it’s not what you want, nor do I want to come between you and Jason if there really is something there.”


“Jason!”

Jason’s head shoots up from its resting place on his desk, and he sees Reese standing in the door. “Aw, man, this aint’ good.”

Reese shakes his head. “You still look like crap. Go home, Jason and get some sleep before you bungle something up and ruin your own reputation around here for efficiency.”

Jason gives him a wry grin. “I have no vehicle.”

“Susanne is running an errand. I’m sure she’d take you.”

Jason wants to argue, but his body begs him to give in. “Alright,” he relents, shutting down his computer. “If you insist. Though I hardly think that falling asleep at my desk is call to send me home.”

Reese rolls his eyes in humor at Jason’s dry sarcasm. “Get some sleep. And see me in two days.”

… “You can drop me off here,” Jason directs Susanne to stop at the end of his street. “I can walk a couple blocks.”

“Alright. See you in a couple days.”

“Sure. Thanks for the lift.” Jason exits and lets Trooper out of the back seat. As Susanne drives away, he heads down the sidewalk, yawning, and keeping his eyes to the ground, wanting only his bed. As he’s passing a yard, a shot suddenly rings out, a bullet whizzing past Jason’s head and lodging into a tree trunk only inches away.
Fully alert in an instant, Jason drops to his stomach, drawing his side arm and commanding Trooper to drop as well.
No more sounds…no movement. Jason’s eyes sweep the area. Where had the shot come from? There were too many hiding places with so many houses around. It had sounded like a rifle. His eyes search his surroundings, but he sees nothing. His ears pick up the sound of an engine starting, and then squealing tires the next block over out of sight. Was it his assailant?
After several minutes of quiet, Jason finally dares to stand and holster his gun. Taking no chances, he cuts across yards and takes to the cover of shadows and bushes before reaching his house. Letting himself in, he lets Trooper go first, though nothing seems out of place.
Great…now he was pretty sure the earlier events were connected somehow. But who would be after him? And why? For now he was safe…the doors were locked, and Trooper was his alarm. He would sleep and worry more tomorrow.

"Talk" Busness

*Angel nods to Jeff helping BJ put his shirt on.* "Can you take BJ to the mess hall than to get something to eat." *After leaving BJ with Jeff Angel heads to Lukes bunk and knocks on the door.*

*Katie feels a bit of disapointment as she was looking forword to going out with Wyatt. But I guess going to the Cafe was better than nothing. Katie holds her smile and nods.* " Sounds like a plane to me. Though I have to addmit I dont like the sound of this "talk" busness." *Katie cant help but laugh at the way she just made herself sound so stupid.* " Come on you lets go. I am starving." *Katie heads down the hall walking slow so Wyatt can catch up.*

Walk?

Mick shakes his head dismally. “He won’t speak to me now.” He sighs deeply, trying not to think about it more for now. “What are these files you got here? Find anything interesting?”

Jeff heads to the mess hall from helping in the barn, and stops by Angel’s office for a moment. After knocking and seeing her, he offers a smile. “Morning. Just thought if you were gonna come to the mess hall, you might want to stop by and see Luke first. He told me not to tell you, but I couldn’t feel right about that. He can’t even get out of bed this morning, and I thought it best to tell you.”


Jason nods to Katie, a smile on his lips. “Thanks Katie…for everything.” He watches her go, then sighs, reaching into his desk drawer for a candy bar. He really should go eat lunch, but his stomach isn’t up for it. For now he just needed sugar.
He chews thoughtfully, replaying the morning’s events. Curious, he dials his own home phone, and receives a busy signal. Odd. The phone couldn’t be off the hook – he’d never picked it up the evening before, even when Katie had called, and she’d gotten through to the answering machine.
His senses are heightened as he thinks of Hal’s truck. Had Jason’s phone line been tampered with? Had the brakes purposely been tampered with?
He shakes his head. He can’t jump to conclusions. Surely neither instance was done in malice, nor were they connected. It wasn’t worth bringing to the attention of anyone.


Wyatt looks up and leans his elbows on his desk, giving Katie a grin. Did she mean to flirt with him, or was it just her desirable personality that triggered his want to be with her? He was troubled though…had he received the real story of her and Jason? Did it matter? He knew he couldn’t take things very far with Katie anyway…he’d made a commitment to himself. And yet…if he pulled away, there might not be any hope of bringing Katie to Christ. Perhaps he was supposed to take part in that plan. But he had to tread lightly…and he had to be completely honest with her lest any misunderstandings occur.
Standing, he closes his file folder. Exiting his cubicle, he holds out his hand. “How about we take a stroll down to the café? It’ll give us some time to talk on the way.”

Lunch

*Rosetta makes her way to the mess hall with a file in her hand. After entering Rosetta goes to the kitchen and grabs a cup of coffee. Heading over to Mick she sits down next to him placing the file on the table.* " Morning you. Any progress with Dylan?"

*As Katie works at her desk the time seems to fly by. Finishing up the last of her work Katie shuts her computer off and puts her files away. Standing her puts up the typed papers and heads to Reese's office passing Jason's along the way she pops her head in.* "Hey J. I'm gonne turn these paper into Reese and than I am heading out for the day. Thx for the ride in and if you need me give a yell." *Katie gives a smile to Jason.* " Have a good day J." *Making her way from Jason office she leave her paper with Susane than makes her way to Wyatt's desk. Leaning aganst it Katie teases.* "So are we gonna have lunch or are you gonna stay knee deep in paper work all day." *Katie smiles at Wyatt.*

Revealed

“Hey, Hotshot, Reese tell you about the truck?”

Jason looks up from his desk quickly as Hal enters. “Oh yeah. Whatever you need.” He chuckles. “It’s your truck.”

Hal grins. “Yeah, well I also said it was yours as long as you needed it. Ends up my sister needs to move some stuff today though…thought I’d take it up there now and have it back here by the time you went home.”

“Sure. If I need to catch a ride with Scott or something too, I will, so don’t sweat it if you don’t make it.”

“Alright. See you later.” Hal makes his exit, stepping over Trooper on his way.



Wyatt studies Katie’s eyes for the truth, wanting to believe her. But he was confused. It just felt strange, despite Katie’s words. What had she meant about Jason? In an effort to trust her though, he forces a smile. “Okay. If you want to grab a burger or something, swing by my desk about noon. Then if you’re done for the day, I’ll drop you back off at Laura’s before coming back.” He doesn’t linger, but turns to head his own direction.


Half an hour later, Wyatt taps his pencil on his desk, still unable to get his thoughts on his work. He knew he shouldn’t feel anything…Jason was his friend, and that’s all Katie was too…really… but his confusion remained. What had Katie meant when she’d said Jason wasn’t doing well? He’d seemed fine before he’d left the game table to head home the night before….
Finally making up his mind, Wyatt rises and heads to Jason’s office.

Jason is sifting through paperwork and is startled by Wyatt’s form in the doorway. “Oh, hi. Whatcha need?”

Wyatt shrugs and leans on the doorframe, hooking his hands in his pockets. “Nothing really…Just…curious about something.”

Jason’s eyes narrow slightly at his friend’s tone. Something in his gut tells him this has something to do with the brief exchange earlier. Did Wyatt care that Katie was with him all night? And if he did…was there more there than Jason knew about? And if there was…should he care? Shoving the rampant thoughts to the back of his mind, he looks at him expectantly. “What is it?”

“Katie said you weren’t doing well last night…guess I just wondered what that meant…”

Jason’s jaw tightens. His past wasn’t a secret…but his current struggles were not widely-spread. As far as he knew, Carter and Reese were the only ones back here who knew that he’d been having problems dealing with the past. Con, Austin and Katie were the only other three who were aware of it. “It’s just a personal issue.” He tries to shrug it off. “I’m alright.”

Wyatt lifts an eyebrow. “You think I’m gonna be satisfied with that? What is it, Jason? If I can help in any way, you know I would.”

“I got some problems, okay?” Jason doesn’t meet Wyatt’s eye anymore, as heat rises to his face. “Just flares up every once in a while.”

Wyatt doesn’t give up. “Like what? What aren’t you telling me?”

Jason rolls a pen between his fingers, unsure if he really wants to be having this conversation or not. But if he doesn’t let Wyatt in now, he’d probably find out some other way. “Look, the past caught up with me, and I’m having to deal with it. Some days are harder than others.”

Wyatt straightens just a little, suddenly realizing that it might have been more serious than he thought. “You mean…when you were a kid?”

Jason finally looks back up at him. “Yeah.”

“I’m sorry.”

“Yeah, well…it’s better than it was.”

Wyatt thinks for several moments, still unsure about all this. “And…Katie can sense your feelings…so she knew you were having a hard time…and…. She helps you by….?”

Jason can sense the implications in Wyatt’s tone, and is immediately on the defense. “I don’t know…she just…calms me down.” He can feel his face growing hotter. “She knows how to talk me down from a flashback or nightmare.”

“Hmm.” Wyatt wants to believe him, though he finds it just a little hard. “So…her all night presence is required for you to get through it?”

Jason rolls his eyes. “I think this conversation is over, Wyatt. My past bothers me, Katie helps, end of story.”

“I just –”

“No.” Jason shakes his head. “You want to make assumptions, be my guest. Katie’s my friend. Period.”

“That’s it, huh?” Wyatt eyes Jason. “You’re telling me there’s nothing more between you than that?”

“Yes. No. I mean…” Jason glares at him. “Give it a rest. I have nothing more to say.”

“Alright.” Wyatt holds up his hand, not sure he believed Jason’s words when they didn’t match his red face and shifting eyes. “Didn’t want to start anything…I’ll see you later.”

Jason watches him walk away, then flops back in his chair, tossing his pen onto his desk. This wasn’t exactly how he’d planned his day.
Susanne’s voice comes over his phone’s intercom. “Jase?”

“Yeah.”

“Reese wanted me to tell you that Hal just called. He was in an accident.”

“What?” Jason is quick to pick up the receiver. “What happened?”

“He’s alright, but he said the breaks went out on the truck. He wound up going off the road into a ditch. Got a couple bruises, but he’ll be fine. The truck’s already on its way to the repair shop.”

Jason’s eyes widen. The breaks had been fine earlier. “Wow. Okay. Thanks.”


Wyatt plops down at his desk again, not feeling any better than he had before talking to Jason – maybe even worse. Did he really want more answers? Did he really want to dig further?


Mick eases down at a mess hall table, coffee mug in hand, one eye on Dylan who is sulking in the corner by himself, shrugging off Jade’s company.

Luke lies in bed and looks at the clock. It was late. He needed to get up. But his legs just wouldn’t function. They were stiff and sore, his lower back aching. Yesterday had been a good day…apparently today wasn’t going to be so great. He tries to roll over and get up, but his legs just won’t support him, and he flops back down with a moan. Giving up, he pulls his blanket back over himself. Maybe if he waited just a little longer, his muscles would loosen up.

Explanation

*Katie nods to Jason* " Ok see ya." *Katie turns back to Wyatt and smiles.* " Sorry I gave you a scare. Jason wasent doing well last night and I tryed calling him. When I dident get an answer from him I myself got more nervouse about it. So I went over to make sure he was ok." *Katie shakes her head not relizing the look on Wyatt's face, But being able to tell Wyatt is not happy.* " Come to find out, he triped over a table." *Katie rolls her eyes* " and messed up his knee AGAIN. So anyways...I made sure he was going to be ok and thats that." *Katie streaches* " So again I am sorry I had you worryed." *Katie places her hand on Wyatt's arm.* "Wyatt, you dont have to say anything I can see it in your eyes. Jason and I are just friends. I care for him as a friend. " *Katie turns to walk away but turnsback around to look Wyatt in the eyes* " I came in to do some left over paper work. I am not gonna be here long if you still want to grab lunch. I would like that. Dosent look like Scott is here eather for me to take him to help me look at a car so I am pritty much free." *Katie smiles.*

Search

Jason chuckles and puts his glass in the sink. “Alright. Come on then.” Outside he whistles for Trooper who comes bounding around the house. Once in the truck, Jason rubs his chin, only now realizing he hadn’t taken the time to shave. He must look a sight. “Reese is going to think I really did get run over by a truck,” he muses under his breath. Giving Katie a sidelong glance, he wonders how she could keep herself looking like she did without even had time to change – she looked just as good now as she had the night before.

Starting up the truck, Jason sighs and backs out of the driveway. It doesn’t take them long to get to TJY, and as they enter the floor, they’re met by Reese. “Are you two okay? Jason, you look like crap.”

Jason smirks at him. “Gee, thanks.”

“No, really, are you okay?” Reese looks at Katie. “Wyatt called a bit ago. Said he’d stopped by Laura’s on his way in, but you’d disappeared sometime earlier and Laura didn’t even know when.” He shifts his gaze to Jason. “Wyatt tried calling your place to see if you’d heard anything, but when he didn’t get an answer, he called here. He’s been out looking for Katie for half an hour. Got concerned it might be connected with some of the cases they’ve been on lately.”

Jason’s eyes widen. “Strange – I never got any calls…” He shakes his head, deciding to check his phone later. “Well get a hold of him and tell him to come in. Katie was at my place most of the night.”

Wyatt stops behind them, just in time to hear Jason’s statement. He clears his throat to make his presence known, and looks back and forth between Jason and Katie for just a moment. He doesn’t want assumptions to get the best of his judgment, but it’s a little bit hard. He forces a small smile for Katie though. “Hey, glad you’re alright. Kinda gave us a scare. Around here we don’t take disappearances lightly.”

Reese nods. “Well, as long as we’re all okay, I’m going back to my office. Oh, and Jason, Hal said to talk to him. He’ll need his truck back for an errand tomorrow – something about his sister moving.”

“Alright.” Jason waves Reese off, then nods to his own office, speaking to Katie. “Catch you later.” He looks briefly at Wyatt. “Mornin’. I’ll be down on the range later if you want to go around.”

“Yeah…sure…” Wyatt watches him leave, then turns back to Katie. “Uh…though maybe I’d catch you for lunch today since you weren’t going to be working, but…maybe some other time.”

Looming in the Darkness

*As the ground underneath Katies head moves she become awake enough to know whats going on but still asleep. Feeling Jason's hand on her shoulder she lifts her head trying to get her barings on where she is. Katie sits up on the coutch and see Jason disapear down the hall. For a moment Katie remainds confused but than remembers the night before. she must have fallen asleep on Jason. A big of embarssment builds inside Katie. Standing she streaches and heads into the kitchen to grab a glass of OJ. Emotions run through Katies mind. She had again fallen asleep with Jason. Katie cant help but feel she sould have moved herself to the floor to sleep. As she runs through avent in her mind Wyatt pops up. A strange feeling comes over her as if she felt like she did something wrong. Why was this feeling connected to Wyatt's though. Katie wasent together with him or with Jason. They were friends. But a feeling as if something was going to backfire lingers in her mind. Shaking the feeling for now Katie smiles as Jason enters the kitchen. If you dont mind I think I am going to head to TJY with you. I have some paper work I need to finish up and I probley should. I want to look into geting those wings too and I need to talk to Scott. Sooo....I guess since your going that way." *Kaite grins.*

Late

Five-thirty, Jason’s alarm goes off in his bedroom, unheard from the living room. It’s over hour before Jason opens one eye groggily, trying to get his bearings. Couch…living room…the night comes back to him slowly. Starting to stretch, he suddenly feels the warm weight on his leg and remembers that he’s not alone. Katie.

Opening both eyes, he takes a deep breath to yawn and stretch. There was light coming in through the windows, and Trooper was standing, ready to be let out. Jason’s eyes shift to the side and he squints at the clock on the far wall. “Oh, no.”

His body feels as if it’s been run over by a truck, and his mind functions as if it’s in a fog. But he should have left for work half an hour ago. It was almost seven. “Dang,” he mumbles, throwing off his blanket. He slowly sits up to swing his legs over the side of the couch, Katie’s head winding up in his lap. “Hey, sleepy.” His hand hovers over her soft hair before he thinks better of it, and moves to simply give her shoulder a light pat. “Sorry, Hero, but Reese is gonna kill me if I get in any later.” He slides off the couch, making sure Katie sits up rather than letting her head drop.

Limping to the door to let Trooper out, he calls over his shoulder. “There’s OJ in the fridge. Help yourself, Katie.” Heading back down the hall, his knee feels like it’s on fire, and his mind just isn’t working any faster despite his attempts to fully wake up. After a quick shower, Jason finds an old t-shirt and some jeans that he thinks are clean before heading to the kitchen to get himself some orange juice. His eyes are bloodshot, underlined with dark circles, though he does his best to force himself to appear alert. He grabs the keys off the counter while chugging down the juice. “Want me to drop you back off at Laura’s on my way?”

Sleep

*As Katie sits on the other end of the coutch she stays awake for a while longer hoping she can help Jason sleep in peace. Finally Katie starts to drift off noding in and out of sleep while siting up. Finally looking around for a pillow she finds non. Curling up in alittle ball Katie rests her head on Jasons legs pulling part of the blanket up over herself and drifting off to sleep.*

Early morning

With just a bit of trouble, and leaning some on Katie, Jason is able to scoot up onto the couch, settling back with a sigh. He chuckles a little and nods. “Mom used to have night lights all over the place and I thought she was silly.”

He looks ahead into the darkness as Katie speaks, admitting only to himself that despite any embarrassment, he’d missed her helping him, too. He hated the mental torment he experienced, but it had provided the two of them with something only they could share.

When there’s a pause, Jason can feel Katie looking at him, and he turns his head to barely make out her eyes in the dark. A grin plays at the corner of his mouth. “Unless you can get me a new batch of memories, no.” He gives her shoulder a light squeeze. “But thanks. I appreciate all you’ve done.” He reaches over to the end of the couch to grab a couple blankets and tosses one on Katie’s lap. “Now, you might not have to work in the morning, but I do, and the next couple hours are ‘bout all I’ve got.” He knew he should go change his clothes and even get into his own bed, but at this point, his body was too exhausted to attempt getting up. Instead, he simply leans over to curl up on the couch, tucking his bare feet in next to the cushion Katie’s sitting on, and pulling his blanket up over himself.

The rest of the night isn’t much easier on Jason. Despite the reprieve, the terrifying images continue to haunt his mind. Sleep comes only in minutes at a time, and each time he wakes, it’s to a racing pulse and shaking hands. Only at five in the morning does he finally drift off into a sleep deep enough to hold him in rest.


Laura yawns and stretches before forcing herself out of bed, almost stepping on Henry who whines for his breakfast. “Alright, alright, come on.” She trudges to the kitchen to give him some food before heading for the shower. Something on the table catches her eye though, and she stops, picking up Katie’s not. “Strange…” She didn’t even know when Katie had left. Oh, well. She shrugs. If it had been an emergency, surely Katie would have woken her.

Its good

*Katie lets out a laugh as she trys to help Jason up. She was happy Jason broke the silence and the tention. Katie had felt is akwardness start to build. An Akwarkness she was not ready for. Katie was happy for Jason and his friendship. She has felt lost without his friendship.* "Maybe next time you should keep a small light on so YOU dont kill yourself eh." *For a moment everything is silenet than Katie turns to Jason.* " It was good being able to help you Jason. I missed it. Even if you feel embarssed. We all need help in our lifes. With something like this I wouldent blame you for having a hard time with this day. I probley would too." *Kaite smiles. As Trooper licks her hang Katie giggles again.* " Well I think your dog likes me. I must not be all that bad." *As Katie glances at Jason again she cant make our his silowet in the moonlight. He had changed since she last saw him. He was even more charming now. Katie was glad it was dark in the room as her cheeks turned red.* "Can I get you anything J?"

*As Rosetta flips through the files more. her eyes slowly start to close. Decieding it best she head to bed herself Rosetta puts the file back and makes a mentil note to look more in the morning and shair with Mick what she found out. Rosetta exits the mess all and shuts the light off. Once geting to her house and cralws back into bed and instintly falls asleep.*

Giving In

Sparky groans and rolls over in bed, squinting at Mick. “What’re you doing?” he mumbles.

Mick spreads several blankets on the floor for Dylan, and waves his brother back down. “Nothing. Go back to sleep.”

“Mm…” Sparky rolls back over, pulling his pillow over his head.

Dylan tosses his jacket in the corner and flops down on the blankets, disgusted at his situation.

As Mick eases onto his bed, he catches his son’s eye for just a moment. He can remember tucking Dylan in when he was just four years old, receiving an enthusiastic hug and a begging for a bedtime story. Where had that little boy gone?


Jason is glad for the darkness as the heat rises to his face. What was he supposed to do? He didn’t want to force Katie to leave, nor did he want her sitting outside. But could he handle her staying here with him? The light caresses Katie’s face, accenting her features and creating a picture Jason would like to capture forever.
His heart beats a little faster as he stares back at her, though he forces himself not to advance. Something has to give. Something has got to relieve this tension before he drives himself crazy. Their relationship was strained enough the way it was, and he knew good and well that right now, he and Katie needed to regain their friendship.

Studying Katie’s eyes to gain a glimpse of her own thoughts, he suddenly recognizes her innocence. She had no idea of her beauty or wit, nor did she have any idea what she was doing to him right now.
It’s enough of a discovery to bring a smile to Jason’s lips. Katie was so determined…she was just stubborn enough to stick by him no matter what he said – no matter if he tried to convince her to leave or not. It was as much as saying “you’re not getting rid of me,” and he could do nothing but find pleasure in that. …He wasn’t going to stop her…he had promised he wouldn’t stand in the way of her at TJY, and he couldn’t stand in her way in this either. She had a gift to be able to sense his danger, and she had a gift of compassion – he couldn’t interfere with that.

After holding his stare for just a moment, Jason’s pent up emotions build to a pressure he can no longer hold. Before he can help it, they erupt in laughter. He shakes his head as he laughs, not even being able to believe this situation he’s in. He can’t think of anything other than friendship, for that’s exactly what Katie was demonstrating…and she was demonstrating it so well that he was backed into a corner with no way to escape her kindness.

Giving in and finally able to let go of all other thoughts, Jason slings his arm around Katie’s shoulders. He draws her into a side bear hug as his laughter subsides into a wide grin. Roughing up her hair teasingly with his free hand, he shakes his head. “Alright, Hero, you can stay on one condition – promise me that next time you won’t half-kill yourself getting here.”

He sighs and looks down at himself. “I did a good job on myself tonight didn’t I?” He rolls his eyes. “If you’re going to stay, at least help me up off the floor so I can sit on the couch and quit feeling like an idiot.”

*Rosetta sifts through more files reading about Sam and her part in the Agency, who she came here, how she was raised, and how she was at one time married and had a Son. Rosetta's eyes widen as she reads. Sam's past was just about as tangled as there own.*

* For a long moment Katie things about Jason's question of a ride home. Searching his face Katie can see he really dosent want her to go, nor is he in any shape to be left along. Katie lets out a long sigh as she battles in her head. She dident want to trust Jason, she wanted to keep her wall up, but it felt like someone was taking a sledg hammer to them and they were starting to crack. What was it about Jason, Katie couldent be mad at him. If Katie dident leave the walls down how would she ever find out if Jason changed or not. Slowly the walls started to crack more but wernt fully down. Katie turns and looks at Jason. The moonlight once again buncing off her eyes.* " If its all the same to you J I'd like to stay. Your in no shape to be here by yourself and I would feel alot better knowing I was able to help. But if you truly want me to go, I can A. sitoutside on your steps, or b. I really can go home, and I can walk. Its nice out.." *Katie throws Jason a smile. Its easy to tell she is related to Rosetta, she has the same smile Her Aunt has given Mick many times.*

Thank you

Mick nods to Rosetta and watches her head to he mess hall, making sure she’s inside before he heads to his bunk. He points, throwing Dylan a stern look. Dylan rolls his eyes, but trudges forward, following his father’s pointing finger.


Jason eyes Katie as she sits down, now realizing that she hadn’t had a vehicle, but had made good time. How hard must she have run? Just to check on him? That fact took him aback just a little.

He finds it a little difficult to force a chuckle to the surface, even though he found humor in Katie’s statement about flying. He closes his eyes, just sitting still and leaning back against the couch. He doesn’t answer her question right away, not wanting her to worry any further, but not having enough energy to cover up the truth either. “No…I’m not okay…but I will be. Just give me a few minutes.”

Jason’s pulse finally begins to slow, his muscles starting to relax again. Katie had just as much a calming effect on him as she always did. If she hadn’t come, how much longer would it have taken him to pull out of his nightmare? Yet how could he continue to depend on her like this? It wasn’t fair to her, and it certainly made him feel more vulnerable than he’d like to admit. But…was it so wrong? Katie obviously had a sixth sense when it came to him, and if she couldn’t help sensing when he was in trouble, then it wasn’t anyone’s fault.

After a couple minutes of silence, he finally turns his head to look at her. “Katie…thank you…” He unintentionally catches her eye, not being able to help his typical stare. For an instant, he gets lost in her gaze, and bites his lip as he struggles to figure out where they stand. How could this work? He needed to let go before he hurt her again. “I appreciate you coming…but…can I call someone to come and pick you up?”

"I need flying powers."

*Rosetta nods and smiles.* "I can make up a bunk for Dylan tomarrow if you want. Depending if he is going to stay or not. Just let me know." *Rosetta giggles to herself.* " You dont have to worry about him running off, or at least geting far. There isent anything around." *Turning to go Rosetta calls back.* "I'm going to be in the mess hall if you need me. I dont think I could sleep now if I tryed. I'll see you guys in the morning." *Rosetta heads to the mess hall. Grabs some milk and sits down at the little kitchen table and pulls out some files to look through.*

*As Katie walks into the house more she hears Troops growling.* "Easy boy, its just me." *Katie talks to the dog till she feels him lick her hand. Katie gently pats Troopers head.* " Good Boy, where Jason." *Following Trooper Katie finally see Jason and lets out a small laugh to his statment. Puting her gun back into its holster.* " Dident you know personal heros..." *Katie sits down grunting dow next to Jason her legs killing her. She hasent run that much or hard in years.* "....don't eat,sleep, rest or have curfews." *Katie glances at Jason feeling his embarssment.* " When you dident answer your phone you had me scaired something really bad happend. I could never live with myself if I hadent come and something really did happen." *Katie leans her head back aganst the coutch coushen.* " I need to invest in maybe geting flying powers or something." *Katie laughs hoping to try and clear some of the tention in the air.* "J...are you ok?"

Don't you know

Mick squeezes Rosetta's hand, glad for her company. He glances back at Dylan who simply sulks, unwilling to talk or even look at him. Mick had thought they'd parted on good terms when Dylan had been out to the ranch last - apparently something had changed in the last few months.
Not much is said until they get back to the ranch, and Mick exits, making sure Dylan follows. "Thanks, Rosetta. I'll have Dylan bunk down with Sparky and me for tonight at least. If anyone asks about anything, tell them I'll explain in the morning."



Jason rolls over to rub his carpet-burned hand, irritated with himself and feeling stupid for tripping over the table. Trooper hovers over him, but he waves him away, just wanting room to breathe.

The phone rings. Startled, Jason's heart continues to race, though he's too much in a daze to get to the receiver to answer it. Straining to hear the answering machine in the kitchen, he's taken aback by hearing Katie's voice. As the brief message ends, Jason has no doubt that Katie will be coming. It's been a long time since he's been in this position, and he feels even more ridiculous. He should be able to take care of himself. He shouldn't let these kinds of things keep happening - he was a grown man for crying out loud. He knew from his sessions with Adam several months prior that this would probably happen every once in a while, but even Jason had to admit that he hadn't expected it to be this severe.

His muscles are still weak, and it's difficult just to get into a sitting position, much less stand, so Jason settles back against the bottom of the couch, just trying to recover. Trooper lies down next to him, confused and nervous by his master's behavior.

Jason hadn't turned the heat up in the house since getting home from Wyatt's, and the chilly air mixed with his sweaty clothes sends a chill down his spine. But a blanket is too far away for him to want to try reaching. Not now...maybe...in a few.... Jason's eyes fly open again as a remnant from his nightmare comes flying back.

Suddenly Trooper tenses, the hair on his neck standing on end as he lets out a low growl. Jason is immediately on guard, now hoping it was Katie and not an intruder that he would be unable to fend off. Trooper stands and takes several steps forward as the door opens, barring his teeth, his eyes glinting in the dim light cast by the street light outside the window.
Jason can just barely make out Katie's form, and a new fear hits him. "Trooper, back off," he orders weakly. His dog pays no head, determined to protect his injured master.
Mustering up the energy he's got left, Jason manages to raise his voice. "Back off."
Trooper whines, knowing Jason means business, and able to sense that Jason is not afraid of this person. Taking another couple steps forward, it's as if the dog realizes who it is, and immediately he relaxes to greet Katie. He offers a soft woof and spins circles, trying to lead Katie to Jason, nuzzling and licking her hand.

Now that Katie is here, Jason doesn't even know how to respond. He felt stupid, embarrassed and vulnerable. Part of him was glad she had come...it proved that maybe they did have a shot at becoming close friends again. Yet her presence once again stirred feelings within him that he was trying to bury. He simply had to ignore them.

As Katie approaches, he manages to force half a grin, his breathing still slightly shallow. "Don't you know you shouldn't be out this late at night?"

Personal Hero Away.

*As Katie sleep she toss and turns. Hiting Henry on mistake and sending him running out the door. Katie shoots out of bed. Something was wrong again. It was Jason....Katie's Mind reals. Reaching out she picks up her phone. She new Jason was a grown man and dident need to hold his hand but she had to make sure he was ok. Katie dials his number waiting she finaly gets his answering masheen. Panic grabs Katie even more why wasent Jason answering.* "J its Katie. Its gonna be ok." *Hanging up Katie jumps out of bed and throws her clothing on. Henry sits outside Katies door just looking at her. Katie grabs a peace of paper and jots a fast note to Laura.* {Laura, Had to go out, something came up and I had to check it out. I'll be back soon. Katie}
*Katie heads downstairs and throws the note on the table. walking outside she relizes she dosent have a car. Breaking into a jog Katie starts to run down the street. After about a half hour Katie finally makes it to the house. Not even worrying about how thirsty she is She jumps the steps and knocks on the door. When no Answer comes Katie looks into the windows. Everything is dark. Taking her Credit Card from her pocket she pushes it in the lock and pops the door open. Katie enters a hand on her gun just in case something goes wrong.* "J...are you in here?"

*Rosetta looks from Mick to Dylan her own sadness taking over for the boy. Rosetta gets into the Jeep and starts it up heading for home. The ride is quiet. Rosetta takes her free hand and olds Mick leting him know its gonna be ok. Time seems to drag on the way home.*

Bail

Wyatt just grins at Katie, knowing that he probably will "happen" to pass by Laura's house again. He walks both women to the door and says goodnight before he and Ty both head to bed themselves.


Mick takes a deep breath and nods to Rosetta, trying to calm his own nerves. Entering the police station, he explains who he is and pays the bail for Dylan. He and Rosetta are allowed to walk back to the cells where Dylan is sitting with five or six other guys, all older than he. He looks up as he hears footsteps, his face showing his tension at seeing Mick. He'd called his mother, and had no idea that Mick would be the one showing up. He stands up and crosses his arms in a defiant stance as the cell door is opened.

Mick looks in at him, a mixture of sorrow and anger filling his heart. "Come on, Dylan." He thumbs down the hall. "You're coming with me."

Dylan grits his teeth. "What if I don't want to?"

"Tough luck," Mick states flatly. "I just paid a bundle to get you out of here, so get your hind end in gear and don't make this any harder than it has to be."

When Dylan doesn't move, the officer nods a warning. "I'd advise you to go with him, son."

Giving in with disgust, Dylan trudges out of the cell, shoving past Mick and ignoring Rosetta. Mick throws Rosetta a look of complete annoyance, rolling his eyes as he follows his son.

One they're outside, Dylan plants his feet on the sidewalk. "I ain't going back to that stupid ranch with you."

"It's 'I'm not' and yes, you are." Mick opens the door to Rosetta's jeep. "In. Now."

Dylan straightens, though his frame is no taller than Mick's. "No."

"I'm not standing here all night arguing with you!" Mick raises his voice. "You're coming, and that's final."

"Who are you to tell me what to do?"

"I'm your father."

"Some father. I don't remember seeing you around for the last ten years."

Mick's face reddens as he reaches his limit. Stepping forward, he surprises Dylan by taking him by his jacket and yanking him to the jeep. With both hands, he manhandles the younger man, shoving him into the seat, with a swift kick to the backside.

"Aw come in!" Dylan gripes. "What'd you do that for?"

"That was the hard way," Mick explains calmly, sliding into his own seat. "From now on I suggest the easy way." He nods to Rosetta. "Let's get going before anyone misses us."



Jason's body shakes, the sweat pouring down the side of his face. Despite any amount of control, it had been inevitable that these images would invade his sleep, turning foggy dreams into vivid nightmares all over again. He had known it was coming, but had been too tired not to sleep.

Trooper whines and gets up from his place in the kitchen, going to Jason to nuzzle his hand.
Too deeply into the dream though, Jason doesn't wake. He writhes in the pain he feels in the realm separate from reality. Alex. The house. The pain. The hunger. The desperation. The tears.

Unable to pull himself out of the nightmare, Jason lives in torture for over an hour, until finally a backfiring car out on the street jolts him awake. He sits straight up, glancing around the room wildly to convince himself that he was in his own house. His hands shake uncontrollably and he's soaking wet. "Aw dang it," he complains in a whisper. He tries to get up from his chair, but his knees buckle, not yet recovered from the shock of the nightmare. Falling back down into the chair, he groans in desperate irritation. Would this never end?

Trooper tries again, lifting Jason's arm with his nose and whining at him, sensing something wrong.

Jason manages to scratch the dog's head, trying to convince him everything is fine, though his racing pulse says otherwise. This was the first time he'd been completely alone when this had happened. He looks to the phone for just a moment, but is quick to remain logical, refusing to dial. He had to do this...he had to get himself into bed and survive the night. Tomorrow would be better.

Leaning on Trooper for support, he's finally able to stand, and starts to make his way to his room. Without lights on though, he miscalculates the distance and rams into the corner of the coffee table. Crying out as his knee is twisted, he stumbles forward, ending up on the floor with scattered magazines.

Hours

*Katie smiles at Ty joins them. Trying her best she points out words. Quietly saying them to him and repeating the letters. Katie trys her best to help Ty while just making it look like they are playing the game.*

*Hours pass and time flys. Katie is not sure if she is helping Ty or just making him more confused. As Laura stands so does Katie yawning* " I guess I should head to bed." *As Wyatt makes a crack at her she throws a pillow from the coutch at him.* "Watch it Mr." *Before leaving Katie gives Wyatt a friendly hug and throws a smile at Ty.* " Now that Trooper is gone Wy you can still "happen" to walk by the house if you want. I like our walks." *Katie heads to Laura's car and head home. Once there Katie says goodnight to Laura and heads to bed. Seting her cell phone on the nightstand incase anyone needs her.*

* Finally geting into Milltown Rosetta pulls up to the police station. Turning off the car she turns to Mick,* "Try and stay calm ok. I know this was a big mess up on his part but oh so long ago we did too and all the yellling in the world dident help up." *Rosetta smiles at Mick and squeezes his hand.* "Come on. Lets get this over with." *Geting out of the jeep Rosetta heads over to Mick's side and waits for him. So they can both go in together. So he has a shoulder to lean on in this time.*

Goodbyes

Ty looks at Katie quickly, surprised by her observation. He’d tried so hard not to make it obvious, but suddenly his secret was out. Apparently she really was good at reading people. He glances back out the window, unable to look her in the eye without feeling vulnerable. “Look, playing a game isn’t going to help… letters don’t make any sense to me. They never have. I flunked out of school, labeled as stupid, because I couldn’t read.” His embarrassment pools behind his eyes, desperate for release. He remains frozen in place, only glancing over his shoulder as Katie leaves. She was one of the few who had ever discovered his secret. He’d done a good job hiding it…most people just assumed he was lazy when it came to jobs, or a complete idiot at least. He’d never figured trying to learn to read was worth wasting someone else’s time over. It had been tried…he just couldn’t do it.

But as he stands alone and hears the others continuing to have fun and laugh, he realizes that he’s being left out due to his own will. Sighing, his mind begins a battle of tug-o-war. If he didn’t join in, there would be more questions. If he did, he’d risk the others discovering his secret. But was Katie right? Could she help him without the others knowing? Was it worth a try?
Not even sure why, Ty gives into the prompting. He wouldn’t normally…but something about this group was different…something told him he could trust them…and he didn’t want his antisocial attitude to ruin anything.

The game already in progress, Ty slips quietly into a seat next to Katie, staring at her row of tiles. It might as well have been chicken scratches to his eyes.

Wyatt looks up in surprise as Ty returns to the table, but he opts not to make a big deal out of it. He senses there’s something bigger here than a simple attitude problem, and is just glad he’s decided to join back in.

Ty watches the game progress, desperately trying to make sense of it all. He understands the rules, and he knows that the others are forming words on the board. But he has no idea what those words are, or how they are put together. He doesn’t even know the difference between the letters. But he stays, if only not to feel left out.

As it becomes later and later, Laura finally yawns and stretches, throwing a glance at Katie. “Well…I don’t know about you, but I’m beat. How about us heading back to my place?” She stands up and helps Wyatt clean up a few things. After everything is put back, she grabs her purse and keys. “Thanks, Wyatt. This was a blast.”

He grins and nods. “It was fun.” He throws Katie a casual salute. “You, my dear damsel shouldn’t be in any distress at all with a brain like yours.” He winks at her. “I’ll see you in a couple days. Try to stay out of trouble.”


The ride to Milltown is quiet. Mick’s mind wanders is so many directions… why had Dylan chosen this path? What if the past had been changed? What if Mick had handled things differently? Would he have been able to steer Dylan in a better direction? And what would happen now? Mick knew good and well that his son would not welcome his presence. At the same time, Mick’s blood boiled at the thought of Dylan being stupid enough to get involved with a rowdy bunch like he had – not only that, but to have skipped town and not even told his mother about it.
Sighing, he sips his coffee, trying to gain some alertness. This was not going to be fun.

Into the Night

*Katie sighs.* "I'm not sure. I'll be right back." *Katie heads into the living room and stands next to Ty keeping her voice low so the other dont hear her she talks to Ty.* "Ty, I know why you dont want to play. The other might not know but, I am good at reading people. Playing this game will help you learn. Thats why I said you could be on my team. I cant help you without leting the others know. You shouldent be emabarssed. If you dont want to play thats fine. I'm just trying to help you out." *Katie stands looking out the window a while longer and than goes back in to the room with Wyatt and Laura. Cracking her knuckles she laughs* " Ok...how about I play on my own team. Bet I could still whoop you both." *Katie makes a funny face at the others.*

*Rosetta smiles and Nods. She hands Mick a mug of coffee and puts one for herself in the cupholder.* " Not a problem at all Hun. I wasent really sleeping anyways. Only pretending." *Rosetta giggles and starts the Jeep. Pulling out of the drive way She follows Mick direction heading for Milltown.*

Actions

Jason calls Trooper and heads out, taking the drive home slowly. Parking at his house, he takes his time, so tired, but not wanting to sleep. He turns on the lights as soon as he's in the house, and invites Trooper in for the night. Instead of going to bed, Jason putters for a while in his bedroom, then winds up flopping down in a living room chair after shutting the lights off. He stares into the darkness, willing his mind to avoid what is tugging at his subconsciousness, though with little progress. His eyes are so heavy...his body so tired...


Ty's eyes widen at Katie's invitation, and he stiffens in his seat. "I...I don't think I'd help one bit. I'm not so great at games."

Wyatt throws him a teasing smirk. "You've been a party pooper all night. Come on and move around to sit next to Katie. She's gonna need all the help she can get for this next round."

Feeling backed into a corner, Ty abruptly stands, his face red. "Look, it's...it's late. My brain stopped working about two hours ago."

"So did mine," Laura quips with humor. "We don't care."

Ty grits his teeth. "Really, I don't want to play, alright? Can't you guys just let it drop?" He leaves the room before his embarrassment takes over, and goes into the living room to stare out the window, his arms crossed in defensiveness.

Wyatt lifts his eyebrows as Ty stalks off. "What on earth is his problem? One minute he's sociable and calm and the next he's riled and grouchy."


Mick looks at Rosetta, a grateful smile at the corner of his mouth. "Thanks...I guess I'd appreciate the company." Once in the jeep, he points to the left. "Jill said he's in the Milltown jail - it should take us about an hour."

The Night drifts on

*Laughter rings through out Wyatt's apartment. Katie cant help but enjoy herself as she laughs and jokes with her friends. Its was nice to be herself and be with true people she could call friends. She dident need to hide. Her hate,sadness, and wall crumbled before them to let her trueself show through.*

*Katie looks to Jason. I bit of sadness shows through that they have to say goodnight. Noding leting him know to call if he needs to.* "Night Jason. Drive safe and happy birthday." *Katie watches as Jason leaves. Katie hopes tonight he will be ok being alone. Once Jason has left Katie turns back to the game.* "Well since Jason is gone there are 4 of us how about we play teams? Ty you can be on my team." *Katie nods to him, trying to convay its ok and will help.*

*Rosetta nods to Mick.* "Let me get my keys. I'll drive. Its to late to be going alone." *Rosetta heads back to her house and grabs a granola bar and her keys. Heading back to Mick they hop in her jeep.* " Ok what way we going?"

Dylan

The ride back to Wyatt’s is a quiet one, and Jason can’t help but wonder what’s going through Katie’s mind as the silence reigns.

Once arriving, Jason is taken off guard yet again by Katie’s offer. He opens his mouth to reply, but she’s already halfway to Wyatt’s door. Sighing, he follows suit, preparing himself to be sociable again with a grin on his lips.

Laura shrieks from the kitchen. “Yay! I’m gonna need a sugar high if I’m gonna keep up with y’all this late at night.” She giggles. “Bring it on in here, I’ll get the bowls.”

Wyatt shifts his concentration from Ty to Katie, throwing her a mocking look of shock. “Hey now, I’m just trying to be fair!” He takes a quick step forward in response to her kick, giving her a teasing shove towards the kitchen. “You just go in there and team up with Laura while I rally my own troops. Looks like I’m going to need all the help I can get with you two ganging up on me.”

Jason cocks his head slightly as he sees the three interact. Things were so much the same, yet so different. He stifles a yawn, knowing his body is exhausted, but he can’t leave now.

Ty sinks down in a chair away from the table, drawn in by the others’ laughter, despite his desire to flee. Maybe if he just kept his distance.


The evening progresses as lively and fun, with more than one game of Scrabble. Ty winds up interacting just a little, but declines any offers to have him join in the games.

As the chatter continues, Jason glances at his watch. Sleep is something he fears tonight, but if he doesn’t leave soon, he’ll be too tired to drive. He stands to take his empty ice cream bowl into the kitchen. Coming back, he sets his hands on his hips, nodding at the others. “Sorry guys, but I’m gonna have to call it a night. I better take myself home.” He glances at their faces, landing on Katie’s, his words aimed to the group, but hitting her directly. “Guess I’ll see y’all at work.”

Laura smiles up at him. “Goodnight, Jase.”

He slings an arm around her shoulders in a brotherly fashion. “Don’t let Wyatt cheat after I’m gone.”

She laughs and nods. “Alright.”

Before turning to leave, Jason throws one last look at Katie, allowing his eyes to express his thanks for her company and her friendship.


Mick squints into the dark, suddenly on edge. Had he heard a knock? Throwing on his jeans and shirt, he quickly goes to the door, just hearing Rosetta’s words before he opens it. His eyes go wide and he answers in a whisper. “Hang on, let me grab my shoes.”
Slipping on his boots, he swiftly exits the bunk to follow Rosetta back to her place. Worry fills Mick’s veins. Why would Jill be calling him this late at night?
He picks up the phone. “Jill? What’s wrong?” He starts to frown, giving Rosetta a glance as talks to Jill. “…he’s what? …well how…. No, I didn’t….” His frown turns into a scowl. “I don’t believe this….why was he down here? …he said nothing? Well what…..no….” He glares at the receiver. “Yeah, I can do that. Sounds like he needs a good kick to the behind. No, I’ll go. Yeah…don’t worry. I’ll call you in the morning. Bye.”
Hanging up, Mick rubs his tired face with his hands. “Oh, woe.” He turns to Rosetta, throwing his arms in the air with disgust. “My son just got arrested about an hour’s drive from here, and I have to go bail him out. I’ll have to bring him back here.”

As long as you need

*Entering the tuck with Jason Katie smiles.* " I wont." *Though Katie trys to keep her heart shielded from Jason she cant help a feeling the bubbled inside of her. It feels as though they never left the ranch. Its felt like old times. Jason....dear Jason. Her best friend. Why couldent thngs just be that simple. Why was it hard to open to him again.*

*As the pull into Wyatt's drive way Katie turns to Jason again and smiles.* " ok lets get in there pig out and kick some butt. I'll stay with you through out the night as long as you need to to J. I dont have to work tomarrow and can sleep in." *Before Jason can reply Katie hopes out of the truck and bursts into Wyatt's door.* "THE FUN IS BACK. WITH ICE CREAM." *Katie holds is above her head. Than glances at Ty.* "They dident look at our tiles did they?" *Katie lets out a giggle and heads into the kitchen. Giving Wyatt alittle kick along the way.* " Oh goodness. Jason Wyatt has the rule book out, AGAIN. Why is it when your losing you go to the rule book." *Katie ducks in an tisapation of Wyatt throwing it at her.*

*Groggly Rosetta reply.* "Hey Jill. Its ok. Ya give me a sec I'll have to run over to Mick's bunk to get him. Hang on one sec." *Rosetta grabs her coat and heads across the lawn to Mick's Bunk. Trying to knock softly as to not wake Sparky Rosetta whispers loudly.* " Mick, Jill is on the phone for you MICK." *Rosetta wraps her arm around herself from the chill air.*

Back with ice cream

Not having heard Katie approach, Jason flinches at her touch, startled. He looks at her quickly, forcing himself back to calmness again as he sends a hard stare into her eyes. Her words hit him with more impact that he’d been prepared for, and all excuses for his abrupt exit from the store fly out the window. His stomach is in knots, despite all the logic in the world, and he knows now, the impossibility of hiding any of this from Katie. He swallows hard, finally looking away. “I’ll be alright. My mind likes to play tricks on me this day every year no matter how hard I try to forget about it.”
Katie’s hand on his arm is as soothing to him as it always had been, and he finds himself gritting his teeth against the boiling emotions he’s bottled up inside. He can’t help but think of her shielding comfort during the night he’d so violently awakened. He could still feel her hand running through his hair…
Blinking, Jason turns to the truck door. “Thanks, Katie…I appreciate it. I’ll be alright now. Just don’t mention it to the others when we get back to Wyatt’s, eh?” He opens up the door and slips inside, closing his eyes for a just a moment to regroup before Katie enters as well.


“…no, I thought the rules said it the other way,” Laura argues lightly.

Wyatt rolls his eyes as he reaches into the kitchen cupboard for a glass. “Well I’ve always played it this way.” He glances into the other room. “Hey, Ty, grab that rulebook next to you and check that out, will ya?” He laughs. “I can’t lose this battle.”

Ty can feel the feat creeping up the back of his neck again. He’d thought he’d gotten past this for the night. Was Wyatt intentionally putting him in this position? As far as Ty knew, Wyatt was still clueless, and it was just as well. But how could he just refuse to do what he’d just been asked? It would seem so silly.
He reaches down to the Scrabble box and takes out the rulebook. He’s about ready to toss it to Laura, but she gets up to join Wyatt in the kitchen to get herself something to drink as well. He stares at the book in his hand. “Hey, I think I’m gonna turn in,” he calls.

Wyatt looks at him in surprise. “I won’t stop ya, but you don’t want to stick around for ice cream?”

Ty shrugs. He really did want to stick around…this small group was fun to be with. “I don’t know.”

Wyatt grins. “At least look up that rule before you go so you can witness me proving Laura wrong.”

“I…” Ty looks back at the thin booklet, the heat now reaching his face. “I don’t know where to look. You could probably do it faster.”

“It’s on page 5,” Laura calls with a laugh.

Ty flips over 5 pages and looks at the words. Wyatt comes over and slaps him teasingly on the shoulder. “There are only 10 pages. Whatcha doing, memorizing it?”

Ty stands abruptly, his embarrassment taking over. “Look, I do think I’ll head to bed. I’m not feeling so great.”

Wyatt furrows his brow in confusion. “What, I…” he stops mid-sentence as he hears the pickup pull up outside. “Whatever, but the others are back.” As Ty wanders to the window, Wyatt glances down at the rulebook. Something was really odd.



“Rosetta, it’s Jill.” Her voice proves the relief she feels. “I’m so sorry to bother you this time of night, but I’ve got to talk to Mick, and I lost his cell phone number. Is there any way you could go get him?”

Normel

*As Kaite looks at Jason from his suddon stop she follows his eyes down the isle to the man. Confusing makes her wonder who this was. As Jason throws the money and ice cream in her arms Katie can see, and sence the panic inside Jason. She hadent felt this inside him since his flashbacks. After Jason leaves Katie looks down the isle again. Katie never told her what Alex looked like, but sencing his fear she could tell this was eather the real deal or a look alike. Hurrying Katie heads to the check out and exits the store to make sure jason is on. As Katie nears the truck she see Jason aganst it. Her heart going out to him. Nearing him she lays her hand on his arm.* "J...are you ok?" *After a few moment she can tell his hesatations* " J...you dont need to hide this from me. Its why I am are your friend. Remember I am connected to you. You acted normal like anyone would. Its ok Jason. Your human." *Katie smiles and gives Jason's arm alittle squeeze.*

*Rosetta rolls out of bed at the sound of the phone ringing. Who on earth would be calling at this time of night. Thinking it might be an emergincy Rosetta pics up the phone.* "Hello? R/M this is Rosetta speaking."

Forgotten Face

Jason remains quiet as Katie speaks, a little surprised by her apology. He'd figured all apologies had gotten out of the way...though he couldn't deny that he could still feel the sting.
He grins a little at her suggestion of walking alongside her, knowing good and well that she was working her way up quickly and deserved every bit to be top choice around the office if Reese went that direction.
Jason watches Katie's face, picking up on the subtle signs of what she is thinking. There was something new there - distrust. It hurt more than he would have thought, though he knew it was simply a consequence of his own actions. She was still his friend...she would remain loyal, and she was happy to see him. But there was a barrier there now that didn't exist before.

He exits the truck and gingerly walks with her into the store, still favoring his leg. As they're heading to the counter with the ice cream, his eyes catch a man several aisles down who is buying potato chips. Having already had his mind occupied by the topic earlier, Jason automatically tenses as his brain tells him that he knows the man's face. Logic holds him back from making any rash decisions, but his blood runs cold, his hands starting to shake. The man could have been Alex's twin. It was one thing to overcome memories and not allow flashbacks to control him. But seeing a live figure like this was completely different - something he'd never experienced before.
Tearing his gaze away from the man, he glances at Katie, his eyes full of the panic he won't express, though knowing she has no idea what just happened. He's got to get out of here. Reaching into his pocket, he pulls out several bills and hands them to Katie along with the ice cream. "Take over, will ya? I'll be outside." Not even allowing time for her to respond, he spins around to head for the door. Once outside, he takes a deep breath of the night air and goes to the pickup to lean against the the side of the bed. This did not show he was in control...this did not show he'd gotten over the past...but he couldn't help his reaction. He balls his hands into fists, willing his pulse to stop racing. This was absolutely ridiculous.
Taking another deep breath, he diverts his mind to other things in order to free himself of panic. It wasn't a surprise...he had always had just a little bit of trouble every year since his abduction...the anniversary always brought on tense feelings. It seemed worse now though. Despite him no longer struggling with flashbacks and the ability to deal with his memories, his learning to break down his walls had left him feeling vulnerable. He dreaded the night ahead.

But he couldn't let this interfere with this evening. He was supposed to be relaxing and having fun, and he wasn't about to spoil it for anyone else. Pasting a pleasant look on his face, he waits for Katie, coming up with an excuse for his abrupt exit. She need not worry about any of this - she had enough going on that she didn't need him leaning on her for support anymore. Their relationship had changed...and he would accept it.


The ranch's office phone rings several times, the caller on the other end desperately hoping someone will pick up. Jill paces in her kitchen, kicking herself for losing Mick's cell phone number. She had to get a hold of him somehow, and had finally found Rosetta's office number online. She waits, hearing the phone ring. "I know it's late," she whispers, "but someone's got to be up."

Walk along side

*Katie cant help but smile. Though Jason dident show it, his eyes said he was happy and loved the gift. Katie watches Jason for a long momen than looks away.* " I just want to say again myself Jason I am sorry for the way I acted at the ranch I could of handled it better than I did. I dont know what came over me. I had no right to slap you. I guess everything with the letter from my dad, and than hearing you talk to Con. I dont know but I am sorry."
*As everything is silent Katie turns her gaze to Jason again. There he was, siting in front of her. Katie was still his friend, and she was happy to have him around again but still she couldent deny she was treding lightly. Back at the ranch he had disreguarded her emotions, threw them away. Its was easy to tell he has changed now, but still. Katie pushes her thoughts and doubt of friendship out of her mind. She wanted to be open and have a friendship with Jason, but for now she wouldent open herself total to him. Maybe in time though that would change.* " Jason, how about insted of taking a backseat to me, you walk along side me. I think I can shair the spot light. Anyways, I dont like pushing others behind me." *As Katie opens the truck door to step out and replys to Jason.* " Your welcome, and thank you." *Steping out Katie is blasted with a nice warm air, the smell of rain lingering on it. It was refreshing. It gave hope. Rain Katie thinks to herself. Rain washes everything away. Katie looks up to the sky and smiles at the single twinkling star, than heads into the store with Jason.*

Thank you

As Katie and Jason leave, Wyatt's eyes linger on the closed door. Laura follows his gaze, and then looks back at him, all teasing aside. "So how long have you been interested in Katie?"

Without hesitation, Wyatt answers plainly. "Since she walked through the TJY doors with Scott."

Laura lifts an eyebrow. "You're not exactly avidly pursuing anything."

Wyatt looks down at his tiles, letting his mind work on a long word. "I can't right now."
It was no secret that he had had few girlfriends because of his strict standards he had set for himself to date Christian women. Katie was an extremely nice young woman with a big heart full of compassion. She was smart, funny and Wyatt couldn't help his attraction. But he couldn't go any further right now.

Laura gives him a nod, understanding and respecting him.


Surprise flashes across Jason's face as he accepts the package lamely. He wanted to say 'you didn't have to do that,' but that was pretty obvious. He looks up into Katie's eyes. Why did she evoke such emotions so? He never had been able to figure it out. But suddenly the upper hand had slipped from his grasp once again as he clamored to regain control of his own thoughts and feelings. "I...." He looks up to Wyatt's front door and thinks better of sitting in the driveway for too long. Setting the package down, he puts the truck in drive. "They're gonna wonder why we're sitting here..." It was a lame excuse to prolong the gift opening, but it was the best he could come up with.
Once at the all-night quick shop though, Jason shuts the motor off and picks up the package again. As his thumbs slides under the paper, he ponders Katie's greeting several days prior, and now this. He'd been concerned that their friendship might have been ruined because of his stupidity, yet here she was, not only forgiving him, but giving him another chance at friendship, and even going as far as to remember his birthday. The specialness of the moment brought on a mixture of awkwardness, pleasure and doubt that he could live up to being as good as a friend as that to her.

Jason slowly tears the paper off, discovering the contents. His fingers run across the lettering in the leather, and a faint smile plays at one corner of his mouth as he sees the keychain. He just sits quietly for several moments...why had a gift never meant that much to him?
He finally turns his head to look at Katie, the emotions running rampant behind his eyes. "Thanks, Katie....this is.... really, really special." Swallowing hard, he breaks his stare to add the keychain to his set of keys before the unwanted feelings rose again. A brief image flashes through his mind of the night at his house on the way back from TJY. It had been a battle within himself since then, and he thought he had finally conquered it with logic and practicality. But logic didn't seem much of a match for the heart.

Jason leans back in his seat, letting the awkward silence rule for just a few minutes, unwilling to go into the store just yet. Taking the time to regain control and slip back into the more comfortable state of seriousness, he glances back to Katie. "I, um...I want you to know that from now on, I'm not going to stand in your way. Wherever Reese places you at TJY, or whoever he teams you up with, I don't ever want to ruin any chances for you again. So you have my word that I'll stay out of the way so you can pursue your dreams." He finally offers her a grin. "You've grown pretty popular around the office - I'm not used to taking a back seat. But I think you deserve it."

Taking a deep breath, he lays his hand on the door handle, ready to go inside. "Thanks for not giving up on me, Katie..."

The Gift

*Katie places some tiles on the board. As everyone remembers Jason's birthday Katie remains silent. As Jason offers for someone to come along with him Katie stands.* "I'll come along. I need to pic up a few things anyways for Laura's." *Katie gazes around the table and than looks at Ty smiling.* "Hey dont let them cheat and look at my letters ok." *Katie grabs her bag and heads for the door. Once they are outside and in Jason truck Katie digs into her purse pulling out a small package wraped in shinny blue paper with a silver bow. Inside it contains a brown 100% leather wallet with Jason's name imbossed on the front. On the back is says "Friendship is what binds us" Also in the box is a leather keychain the came color as the wallet. On the keychain is says "Hotshot". Katie hands the small package to Jason and smiles.* " Happy Birthday Jason. I hadent seen you sooner you were busy, and I dident want to give it to you inside and make everyone feel bad for forgeting. I hope you like it." *Katie cant help but feel alittle bit excited knowing Jason will love it.*

Ice cream

Jason looks back at Katie, finding himself returning a small smile. His mind wants to delve into much more than he’s willing to at the moment, so he shuts off his thoughts, concentrating only on trying to enjoy himself this evening.

Ty gives Katie a grateful look as she get the pressure off of him, and he relaxes just a little.

Laura shrugs, though doesn’t press the issue any more. “Alright…if you want to join in later, just give the word.” She looks back at the board and begins to take her tiles. “Let’s get this ball rolling!”


It’s halfway through the game. Banter has been going on for half an hour, and Laura’s sides ache from laughing so much. Wyatt leans forward to get a better look at the board, snickering as he thinks of a funny word to place in the corner.

Jason sits back, already having taken in the board at a glance, and knowing what his next move will be.

Ty continues to simply watch the game, never making a move to join in, seeming to draw into his own little world.

Laura studies her tiles, furrowing her brow as she thinks. B…i…r…th…d... A thought suddenly strikes her with enough force to make her eyes widen. “Oh my word.”

Wyatt looks up at her. “It took you this long to realize you’re supposed to be forming words out of these things?”

Laura throws him a withering look before assuming her shocked expression and turns to Jason. “Your birthday was last week.”

Jason shrugs. “Usually happens around this time of year.”

Laura gives his arm a backhanded slap. “I can’t believe I forgot about it! We can’t let that slip by. Wyatt, we gotta celebrate.”

Finished laying down his tiles for a new word, Wyatt nods in agreement. “Let me see if I got anything in the fridge.”

“No, no… guys….” Jason shakes his head. “Forget about it.”

“We can’t do that!” Laura insists. “Besides that, it was your twenty-first, wasn’t it? If that’s not an excuse to have a party, nothing is.”

Jason rolls his eyes, but keeps his mouth shut. If they wanted to do something, he wouldn’t stand in the way of their fun. He swivels his head to look at Katie. “How have you been putting up with these two?”

“Rats.” Wyatt closes his freezer. “I don’t have a thing.” He looks back over to the table. “Anyone want to make an ice cream run? Jason?”

Jason give him a look of amusement. “The gimpy birthday boy gets to do all the work eh?” He chuckles and stands up. “I need to stretch my legs a bit anyway.” He fishes his keys from his pocket. “Anyone coming along, or am I supposed to figure out what to get all by myself?”