Questioning

Con offers a gentle smile. “I know it’s no fun being here…You know the rest of us wish you could be out of here just as much as you do. …And just for the record, if anyone’s determination can get them out of here, it’s yours…you’ll make it…in that, I have confidence.”

He chuckles as she asks him how he himself is doing. “Oh, I’m alright. Trying to get my sea legs back I guess, after being gone this long. Trying to convince Reese to keep me on for a little while here, though I don’t know if he’ll grant me more than a week….” He shakes his head. “Not enough excitement going on in my life to have an awful lot to talk about, though I suppose that’s not a bad thing.”

Con pauses, his eyes narrowing ever so slightly as he looks at Katie. “And how are things with you and Jason?”

Horrable

*Katie smiles and returns Wyatts Hug.* "Ok I promise if I need anything to give ya a yell. I'll see ya tomarrow." *Katie smiles at Wyatt leaves and is saprised as Con enters.* "Hey Big Brother." *Katie sighs and lets her smile fade only alittle at Con's question about how is she really.* "Really? I am misrable. I hate being here and its killing me I cant move. I hate siting around all day and doing nothing. When its nice outside, not being able to go for a walk, pick flowers." *Katie sighs.* "Drive my car." *Katie shakes he head.?* "The doc say if I am deturmend I can walk again but I know they dont believe I ever will. Its just rough. But I am trying to keep my chin up, and make the best of it. How are you really?"

More visitors

Wyatt listens to Katie, finding himself drawn in with intrigue as she shares things about herself that she never had before. His compassion is stirred as he hears of her past, though he cannot help the feeling of gladness that she feels comfortable enough to share with him…and that she understand and can relate to his own feelings. The best part of all though, was her acceptance of his invitation to the picnic, and her mention of church on Sunday.

His smile broadens. “That would be great. I’ll give the doctor a heads up and make sure it’s ok for the picnic, and we’ll plan on that. It’s on a Friday and starts at seven with supper, then it’ll last a few hours, so we can stay as long as you’re up to it.”
He sighs deeply and looks at his watch, hating to leave. “Well, my love, looks like it’s that time again.” He’d suggest him staying for supper, but he knew that Jason would be back. He stands, bending over to give Katie’s forehead a kiss. “Have a good night, and call me if you need anything. I’ll stop in tomorrow.”
Letting his gaze linger on her face for just a moment, he finally pulls himself away.

As he’s exiting, he just about runs into Con, taking a step back in surprise.

Con apologizes. “Oh, sorry, Wyatt. He gives his younger friend a firm pat on the back. “How’s it going?”

“Good.” Wyatt nods and smiles. “You?”

“Never better.”

Wyatt laughs. “I gotta run. Take it easy.”

“Yeah, you too.” Con waits until Wyatt leaves, then enters Katie’s room with a smile. “Hey, Kat.” He grabs a chair, spinning it around to straddle and lean his arms on the backrest. “I bet you’re tired of seeing new faces come through that door all day, nobody leaving you alone,” he teases. He cocks his head with a little bit more seriousness. “I just wondered how you were doing…really.”

Never Would I

*Katie smiles at Wyatt and showing him sympothy. Katie knows first hand its not easy to talk about the past. Gently Katie places her hand on Wyatt's.* " Oh Wyatt I'm sorry. Now I know why your heart wants to trust but your mind wont let it. I've been there where you have been. Its hard." *Katie talks brefly about her past and her boyfriend, how he left her when she needed him the most. Opening herself up and leting Wyatt she her own darkm spaces.* " I would never try, or want to hurt you. Your to sweet for that and I have to many morals. I care about you to much to do something like that to you." *Katie smiles at Wyatt as her told his hand. Happy to see that little spark come back. That was the Wyatt she new, That was the Wyatt she came to adore. Katie heart acked Once again thinking about her crossroad. What path would she choose and how was she to choose. Sooner or later she was going to have to. There was no doubt about that. But for now, Katie would stand at the crossroad and lean to the arms that were open to her. There was always tomarrow to dwell on the path again.* "I'd love to go to the picnic with you Wyatt. Fresh air would be nice. Maybe if that outing goes well...I could go to Church with you sunday too." *Katie smiles and was excited for the picnic to come. She hated being inside all the time. After accepting to go with Wyatt she lighten the mood and tells about her day went, How she went to tharpy and how her dad actully came to see her. Trying not to leave out the details.*

Picnic?

Wyatt relaxes a little, finding Katie to not be mad at him. He scoots the chair closer, grimacing at her mention of Jason. He rubs his knuckles on his right hand. “I figured he’d tell you what happened. Other than that, my day was pretty boring.” He sighs and shakes his head, knowing that he can’t just chitchat all evening. “Look, Katie…I’m sorry for things I hadn’t told you. I don’t know if Jason told you why I hit him or not…my temper just got the best of me, and I regret it. But I probably should have told you that a couple years ago I had a girlfriend…Crystal. I dated her for a year before I found out she’d been cheating on me the whole time.” Though the words flow with little effort, but Wyatt’s discomfort of the subject is evident in his eyes. “I guess when…well, when I see Jason around so much it just rubs me the wrong way is all. Teaching my heart to trust again hasn’t been easy… It’s no excuse though… I know that you would never intentionally hurt me, and I don’t think there’s a deceitful bone in your body.” He gives her a little smile. “I’m sorry if it appears I don’t trust you…I guess it’s not you I don’t trust, but my own heart. So…if you can bear with me, I don’t want this to come between us. I…I know you and Jason are close…and I can’t lie and say it doesn’t bother me that he spends so much time with you. But…I know that if you have other intentions, you’d tell me.”
He straightens in his chair, glad that part is over. “Um…and if you want to…I though maybe I could be the first to get you out of here for some fresh air.” His eyes slowly regain their spark. “There’s a community picnic planned in the next town over…food, people, live music…I bet I could convince the doctor to let me take you, if you want.”

Handsome as you

*Jamie cant help but have her own laughter burst forth.* "Con something tell me she wont believe me." *Still unable to controll her laughing.* "Dont you worry, Dont you worry before you leave for Texas I'll get ya back."

*Katie reaches up to give Wyatt a big hug.* "How could I be mad forever at someone as handsom as you? Thank you for the flowers. I loved them." *Katie smiles at Wyatt and nots to the chair telling him to pulls it over.* "How was work? Anything fun and exciting go on? Other than knocking Jason's block off?"

No more secrets

Con bites his tongue as Jamie takes her call, the laughter desperately trying to surface against his will. As he halts the car at a stop sign and she punches him, it breaks forth, his face getting red. He rests his forehead on the steering wheel for just a moment, unable to contain his laughter. Finally he gets himself under control, and glances in Jamie’s direction, the amusement dancing in his eyes. “I’m sorry…” He forces a serious expression. “That was mean of me.” He’s not able to hold his stern look for more than a few moments though, as another chuckle escapes. “Sure was fun though.” Clearing his throat, he resumes his driving as someone behind him honks their horn. “You have my permission to set your mother straight,” he adds, “before there’s rumors about US back at the office.”


Jason opens his mouth to form a rebuttal for Katie’s statement about secrets, but decides to keep quiet for now. If he were in her shoes, he probably wouldn’t feel much different.
As she speaks of what she felt earlier about him, he cocks his head slightly, still amazed at how she can decipher what he’s feeling. “Well…for what it’s worth…thanks. And…thanks for not pressuring me about not telling you what’s going on. If it turns into anything major, I’ll let you know…you have my word.”
He leans back in his chair and looks up at the tv as she turns it on. Her comment about wanting his company brings back her earlier statement about the want of him as a boyfriend. He tries to forget it though, recalling the state of mind she’d been in.

The afternoon comes and goes, Jason keeping up a light conversation with Katie, around dozing off a couple times. By the evening, he leaves her alone for just a while to go to Con’s and tells her he’ll be back after supper. He has a hunch that she’ll not be alone for long, and as he’s driving out of the parking lot, he finds he’s right – Wyatt’s jeep is just pulling in.

Wyatt takes a deep breath before entering Katie’s room. He’d promised there would be no more secrets. His hair is pulled back and he’s changed in a little nicer clothes after work. He gives Katie a smile and eases down in the chair next to the bed. He looks in better shape that Jason, not having received any knuckles to the face, though a small bandage on the side of his head reminds him of hitting the pavement. He squints at Katie, producing a sheepish look. “Hate me?”

Company

*As Jamie and Con get into the car Mable watches them intently. She always though Con and Jamie looks cute together. As she watches as see what apears to be a kiss.* "HERB, HERB, He just kiss her...I think they are dating."

*In the back Herb rolls his eyes as he flips some burgers for an order.* "Mable would you let them be."

*Mable waddles over to the phone and dials Jamies number.*

*As they drive back Jamies phone rings. Looking down Jamie lets out a sigh.* "Yes mother?...WHAT...NO HE DIDENT KISS ME....what are you talking....." *Jamie looks over at Con for a moment and shakes her head knowing it will be no use Con planned it to well.* "Goodbye Mother. I'll call you Sunday about church.* "Jamie hangs up the phone and turns twords Con punching him in the arm.* " You Jerk." *Jamie cant help but smile really big.*

*Katie looks at Jason* "I know everyone has there secrets Jason. It just seems since my accident people have been having more secrets than normal. I guess its just me." *Kaite grabs the tv remote and flips the tv on. Katie smiles at Jason's comment.* " You really dont need to thank me. I dident do much. I knw your not in danger, I would of felt it if you were. And I know your not in trouble for the same reson. So the only thing I can come up with is your trying to do something you've wanted to do for a long time. I dont know what it is. But you have my saport and I know you will gain what your after. Your to good not to J. I just want ya to know that I back ya 100%." *As Katie flips through the channels she finally finds something to watch.* "Of corse I want your comapny J. Thats silly of you to think I wouldent." *Katie offers Jason a smile.*

Staged

Con quirks an eyebrow as Mable and Herb can be plainly heard from the kitchen. He looks to Jamie, finding more amusement than embarrassment in the whole thing. He grins and points his fork at her. “Sit up or I’m gonna get a complex, thinking you’re trying to sink under the table and hide from me.” He tosses her a wink to let her know he doesn’t think a thing of her parents’ chatter, and quickly changes the subject for her sake.

The rest of lunch goes without a hitch, and Con picks up the tab, leaving a tip as he always did. Standing up, he waves to the kitchen. “Thanks, Mable! I’ll drop by again soon.”

Walking Jamie out, they get into his car. Con looks out the windshield to the large front window of the restaurant, knowing that the sun is just right to allow someone to see their silhouettes without detail. “Hey,” he suddenly whispers. “You hear that?” He looks at Jamie with question, cocking his head. He leans over in between the seats, bending his head low to look at the backseat floor. “Listen…” He gestures for her to bend her head down next to his, listening intently. He knows good and well that from inside the restaurant, one would most certainly assume they had their heads together for an entirely different reason, but he keeps a straight face and shrugs. “Hmm…guess it was nothing.” Straightening up, he starts the car, grinning and throwing a wave towards the restaurant, willing to bet that Mable had been watching.


Jason looks at Katie, growing just a little serious. “Katie…everyone has secrets. Sometimes the wounds need to heal before the bandage is taken off to reveal the scar.”
Allowing the shift in conversation, he shrugs, now having changed his mind about saying anything. He can still feel the papers in his back pocket though, and they linger in the back of his mind.
“Eh…my meeting went all right.” He shrugs. “Nothing special to speak of I guess.” He catches her eye, knowing good and well that she knows he’s withholding information, but still unwilling to share. “I suppose I have you to thank for that though,” he adds slyly. He wonders for a moment if when she’d mentioned his dreams, if she really knew what they were. He glances up at the clock. “Well…I’ll stick around here for a bit. Tonight I’ll swing by Con’s then come back here again if you still want the company.”

Talk about embarssment

*Jamie laughs* "Oh ya Con...like you have has this long list of girlfriend."

*Mable yells from the kitchen* "Jamie wouldent mind being added to that list as long as her name was the last one one it."

*Jamies face turns red and another voice is hurd.*

"Mable let Jamie be while she has lunch with her boyfriend."

*Jamies face turns even redder as she sinks deeper into her seat.*

Mable: " Thats not her boyfriend Herb. Thats the guy she wants to date."

Herb: "Oh..." *Yelling out from the kitchen.* "Sorry about that Con."

*Jamies takes a bit of her sandwitch to scaired to look Con in the eyes.* " I suddanly remember why I dont bring people I know here." *Jamie lets out a giggle.* "Sorry about that."

*Kaite finishes off her lunch and puts her plate aside.* " I see. Thats strange though Wyatt never mentioned anything aout an ex girlfriend to me." *Kaite lets out a sigh. More secrets.* "Oh well." *Changing the subject for now.* "So how did your meeting go?"

Merry way

Con listen intently, not having known things were that complicated. "Wow." He glances up as Mable backs away, and throws her an amused wink. Turning back to Jamie, he shakes his head. "I didn't realize all that. Poor Katie...though between you and me, I think she's been confused about Jason since the very beginning." He thinks for a moment. "Well..." He chuckles. "I'd hardly call Jason a kid anymore, but I think you might be right...having someone like Katie around him has really helped him grow...he's different than he was a year ago, and I think it's in a good way. Now whether those two are meant to be together or not...." He shrugs. "Honestly I'll be surprised if Jason gets serious. He jumped in too fast with a gal back in Texas and got burned for it...nothing too traumatic, but I think he'll be pretty cautious from here on out....though maybe it was a good lesson for him, I don't know." Con rolls his eyes. "Like I'm one to talk."


Jason shrugs, concentrating on downing a long french fry. "Because I guess I insulted him by bringing up the name of his ex-girlfriend that cheated on him. Though that was after he was tailing me on my way to my meeting, as if he thought I was doing something underhanded. I cut him off, we met, had a nice chit-chat, and we went on our merry way."

Wyatt, Jason?

*Jaime takes another sip of her Milkshake and leans back again.* "Oh that rumor. Well...its goes like this. Kati and Wyatt are dating. They hit it off from the moment they met. Really cute together too. Everything was going good till Jason got hurt and came back. Wyatt dosent understand her connection with Jason but is intreged by it. Jason and Katie got close. Wyatt trusts Katie but still there is that doubt in his mind since Crystal. Kaite and Jason I dont know. But you can just tell there is so much of a friendship there is goes beyond but neather wants to addmit it. And than Katie become Jason's body guard and that dident help, and than so on and so forth and Jason has been staying at the hospetal with Katie. Being very protective, and watching her like a Hawk. She dosent mind though. I think he poor girl is confused. and dosent know what to do. You can tell she likes Wyatt and cares about him. But just with Jason its differnt. I know she dosent want to hurt eather and I think thats what she is faced with now." *Mable bring Con and Jamie there food.* "Thx Mom." *Mable nods and smiles.* " I know its non of my busness but that Jason kid, he needs someone like Katie in his life to help him out. Wyatt's a good guy with a good head on his sounders He'll bounce back.** Jamie gives her mom a side long lance and Mable backs away.* "Ok ok...sorry."

*Katie takes a bit of her bread and chews.* "And...he punched you why?"

Slugged

Con laughs. "If it ain't broke, don't fix it." He takes his glass of Coke, finding it humorous that she'd remembered what he drank. "Ah, well, Texas is all right. I kind of liked it...wouldn't mind spending time there, but it's not like home." He takes a sip of his drink and nods. "Yeah, the people there are great...never been around a bunch like them. I'd never want to go up against any of them - I'd have the whole clan on top of me." He stirs his ice cubes around with his straw thoughtfully. "Lots going on with them...wouldn't want to be in their shoes. We're just hoping and praying to get this case over with one of these days, but we keep hitting brick walls." He sighs, shifting the conversation. "So...what's the latest TJY gossip anyway?" He gives Jamie a sly grin. "Not that I'll believe it, but I hear there's quite a few rumors going on. One of which is about Katie and Wyatt. Tell me about it."


Jason holds his plate in front of him as he eats from the chair, and glances up at Katie's question. She's trying...he can tell...but her question still needs an answer. He decides not to mince words. Never worked with Katie anyway. "Your boyfriend slugged me," he states flatly.

Your Face

*Jamie cant help but laugh.* "Old habbits die hard huh? I think since your geting the same old so will I. MMMMM....Philly Cheese streak sandwitch." *After puting in there order Jamie comes back with some drinks for them.* "Here ya go." *Siting down Jamie takes a sip of her milkshake.* "So...what was it like out in Texas? Was the ranch nice? and the people? Katie Aunt and Uncil seemed pritty nice."

*Katie opens her eyes and smiles.* "ok now I am hungry. Your a life saver." *As Katie digs into her food she glances back at Jason.* "Thank you for the food J." *Katie trys to hold her smile she dosent want Jason to think she is angry wtih him though she is alittle annoyed.* "So wanna tell me what happend to your face? I know it had something to do with Wyatt but I'd like alittle more detail than that."

Food

Con smiles big at Jamie's mom. "Hey, hey." He quirks an eyebrow at Jamie's reaction to the comment that she'd missed him...that was just a little strange. Forgetting it, he continues to smile. "Well I don't know about anyone missing me, but I've sure missed the food here." He laughs as Jamie pulls him over to the table. Grabbing a menu, he rolls his eyes and puts it back down. "Forget that. I want some of that famous spaghetti that I always used to get."


Jason grins and shakes his head at Katie as she drifts off to sleep. He rises and goes to figure out what to bring back for lunch. He takes his time so she can get a good nap in, but finally comes back with a tray. "Rise and shine," he calls, coming into the room. Not having succeeded in waking her, he goes up next to the bed. "Yo, lazy bum. Food's here!"

Mom

*Jamie smiles and enters waving to the waitress behind the counter* "Hey Mable. Look who the cat draggen in."

*The tall heavy set lady behind the counter looks to be in her mid 50's smiles. and comes around to Con.* "Well I'll be Con. Its been ages. I keep asking Jamie when you would be home. Its good to have ya back. I think Jamie has missed you."

*Jamies cheeks turn a slight shade of red.* "Mom, please. Come on lets sit down." *Jamie pulls Con over to a table.*

*Katie leans her head back.* " I'm not to hungry right now I am pritty tired though. Maybe I will take a nap while you grab something for lunch." *Katie smiles.* " I probley cant talk to you alittle better than anyways I need to talk to you about something." *Katie closes her eyes and difts off to sleep.*

Lunch

Con keeps his eyes on the road, his head resting back in the seat as he's fully relaxed. "Well, I got Reese to let me stay a week at least...he doesn't like Austin without me back in Texas, but nothing's been going on there that he can't handle, and the other guys are still there with him. Not to mention the whole gang watches each other's backs real well." He shrugs. "I'd like to stick around here as long as I can. I miss my apartment, and I miss being around the office."
He pulls up to the curb downtown in front of the little family-owned restaurant. He gets out and waits at the door, holding it open for Jamie. "Ladies first. You pick the table."


Jason's eyes widen at Katie's offhanded comment, and he blinks, unsure how to receive it. As she keeps talking, he begins to realize that she must be pretty heavily medicated. She hadn't even seemed to notice the beat up shape he was in...maybe that was a good thing. As try as he might though, as she tells him about the day, her words keep playing over in his mind like a pesky fly. "As much as I wanted to say that was true I didn't." She had wanted to say that Jason was her boyfriend? Where had that come from? Had she been doped up while talking with her father too? Jason certainly hadn't seen her that way when he'd left.

He finally sits down in a chair, just listening. As she goes on about his dreams, he almost shuts down. How had she figured that much out? He'd wanted to tell her what was happening, now that things were being finalized...but there wasn't much point at the moment - once she got her senses back, she might not even remember this conversation at all.

Sighing, he opts to slip into a whole new role, forgetting about the morning altogether. He forces a smile, ignoring the subject of what he'd been doing. "Sounds like your day's been going well. I'm glad to hear it. You hungry for any lunch, or have you already eaten?"

Peace of Mind

*Jamie grabs her light jacket and her sunglasses.* "Ready as ever. I'm starving too. I tryed to keep from snacking all day so I could have my fill." *Once outside and they are on there way Jamie turns to Con.* "So dont this mean you will be sticking around for a while?"

*Katie smiles noticeing Jamies peat up face and the look in his eyes.* "Well...I got to chat with my long lost father, and explain to him who you were. He though you were my boyfriend." *Katie lets out a small giggle.* "As much as I wanted to say that was true I dident.." *A bit dazed from the painkillers she was given after her therapy Katie dosent even relize what she just said.* "...than I explain how Wyatt IS my boyfriend. Lets see he got to hear me yell at Wyatt on the phone. Than I just told him about life and he left. Rosetta,Mick and Jeff were here before they left as well and told me to tell you bye and take good care of me. I went to my therapy alone, hurt like heck and I dident stay long. I think I am going to be building some more arm strength. After that they gave me some pain killers so everything is a bit foggy atm." *Katie sucks in a long breath.* "and I think thats about all that happend with my day. How about you? I have come to the conclustion that your not doing anything bad but simply following your dreams. Why you dont ant to tell anyone is behond me though. Why would you hid something when people could shair in your glory." *Katie gives a shrug* "well anyhow I dont know what it is but I am proude of you J. And whatever it is and whatever happens, I am with ya, I'll root for you, and I wish ya the best of luck" *Katie smiles at Jason.*

Hey, Hero

Farewells to Katie are kept warm but brief, no one wanting to prolong it, all wishing they could stay longer too.
Soon, the room is quiet.

Con grins, envisioning the little Italian restaurant. "You're on. I'm on my way to go try and convince Reese to let me stay at least a week, so if he says yes, I'll be around here for lunch."
By the time noon arrives, Con's back at Jamie's desk with his keys dangling from his hand. "You're in luck, and I'm starving. You ready?"

Jason parks Hal's truck at the hospital again, and just sits for several minutes, thinking. He can't believe what just happened. He wouldn't have accepted it, had he not been assured several times by everyone present. But now what?
Getting out, he ambles inside, heading for Katie's room. He looks at his watch...he'd been gone all morning...he hoped she'd been okay with Jay, and if she'd been left alone, he hoped she was alright with that.

Approaching her room, the door is open and he sees that everyone has gone. Taking a deep breath, he enters. He's still got a bruise near his scarred eye, his lip is obviously cracked, and he's favoring his knee again. How on earth was he supposed to explain what happened to Katie? Not only that, but she'd see the bewildered and dazed look on his face from what had just transpired at his meeting. The folded papers sticking up out of his back pocket bother him the most.

He musters up a small grin to Katie, though it comes across as partially sheepish. "Hey, Hero. How's your day going?"

Safe

*Katie smiles as she holds the flowers.* "There from Wyatt. I wish you guys could to met him. Ah well." *Katie places the new flowers with the other collection that is now growing on her table. Katie lets out a sigh.* "I'm sad to see you guys go, but it was nice to see you guys agian. I missed you guys. Have a safe trip home, and I promise I'll be ok." *Katie smiles the best she can.*

*As Jamie see Con she waves.* "Morning. I was thinking of going out for lunch today if ya wanna join me. I'm going to your fav restront." *Jamie smiles.*

Note

Jason lets his foot fall heavy on the gas petal as he crosses the county line. This was stupid. He was going to be late, and he looked like he'd been in a bar brawl. How was he supposed to explain himself? If they really wanted him now, it would be a miracle.

Jay chuckles at Rosetta. "Yeah...we're ok, aren't we." For a brief moment he thinks of the one lost brother, but lets the thought slide.
As he's leaving and Katie calls to him, he turns around, a new feeling of joy rushing over him. The barrier had been broken. The battle wasn't over, but a new bridge was being built, and Jay could feel that it would be a strong one. He winks and blows his daughter a kiss. "Thanks, Kiddo. I love you too." Not wanting to leave, but knowing he must, he pulls himself away and heads down the hall before anyone can see him wiping his eyes.

Jeff looks down at his niece, giving her half a smile. "You're a good kid, Katie."

A nurse enters the room, carrying a big bouquet of white and yellow flowers, a smile pasted on her face. "Well, miss Katie, you're mighty popular today." She hands the bouquet to her. "Enjoy." Turning, she leaves the room.

A note is attached to the flowers. "Katie - Sorry about earlier. Don't be mad. I'll talk to you about it when I get off work, I promise. No secrets. - Wyatt"

Con walks into TJY and takes a deep breath, scanning the floor. He hadn't liked being away for such a long time, and it felt good to be back. He takes his time going to Reese's office, greeting his old friends, and stopping to talk to Laura for a minute or two. He passes Jamie's desk and waves to her as he walks. "Morning."

I love you

*Rosetta smiles at her brother.* "She has the Pent Jeans in her what can I say. We all turn out ok in the end right?"

*Katie cant help but let a smile form on her lips.* "Just shut up and go." *She whispers.*

*As Jay makes his way to the door the feeling of sadness over comes her once more.* "Dad...dont be a stranger ok. I love you."*Katie holds up her hand to form the signlangue for I love you.*

No!

Relief sweeps over Jay as his sister embraces him. He wouldn't want to admit his fear that he'd be rejected after their relationship had taken such a bad turn. He returns her hug warmly, letting it linger for a moment before drawing away. "Yes...it's been too long." He knows he doesn't have to apologize any more, but he allows it to show in his eyes. "Thanks for taking care of Katie, Rosetta...she's one fine young woman." In his mind, he thinks, 'no thanks to me.'


As Jason drives back into town, he's suddenly hit with the urge to go back. He was throwing away an opportunity, no matter how small, that meant something to him. Could he really, with a clear conscience do this?
He taps his fingers on his steering wheel as the feeling intensifies. His gut screams at him to turn around, and his nervousness grows.

Instantly, and as quick as a camera flash, he feels it.

"Aw, Katie! No!" He slams on his breaks, right in the middle of the deserted road. "Why are you doing this to me?" He shouts. Groaning, he turns around once again. "Fine. Just don't ask me about it later because I will have crashed and burned and I don't need to repeat it."


After a greeting to Jeff and to Mick, everyone talks for a little while as attention is turned back to Katie, light conversation continuing. Feeling that his visit has been well worth the time, Jay is disappointed that his plan will be leaving soon. He would have gotten here yesterday had there not been delays. He gives Katie's hand a quick squeeze. "Thanks for letting me come." He smiles at her. "I'll make sure someone lets me know how you progress...I don't want to lose track of any more than I already have."
He turns to bid the others farewell, and slowly makes his way to the door, picking up his bag.

Follow Your Dream

*Katie trys to smile at her dad.* "Sounds like fun. Camping is always a blast. I never told Aunt Rosetta but I always like when we had bonfires." *Katie lets out a sigh. She was upset with her dad still, but that icy patch over her heart was starting to melt. Maybe Jay really did change.*

*As Rosetta enters her eyes widen a bit. She new Jay would be coming but it was still strange that he was actully there. It had been such a long time since she last saw him. As tears form in her eyes Rosetta walks over to her brother and wraps her arms around him.* "Its been along time Bro. To long."

*As Katie watches her family and friend reunite she gives a tiny smile only to have it fade as Jason enters her mind. Again he wasent in trouble, he wasent hurt but his heart acked. For some reson he was leting his dream slip away. Not wanting to call him to bother him yet again Katie closes her eyes and leans her head aganst the pillow softly whispering.* "Follow your dreams Jason or there always will be what if. Follow your dreams, follow your heart. I'm behind you."

Turning around

Jay listens intently to Katie talk about Jason and Wyatt, intrigued by who they are, and who is daughter has become. He almost says something once about the men she was referring to, but refrains, remembering that at this point in time, he really has no right to give advice.
Instead, he continues to listen. A smile forms as he takes the picture of Katie with her car. "She was a beauty," he compliments.
Learning about Katie at TJY, what she did, who her friends were...it filled in so many holes...answered so many questions he had had. As Katie concludes, Jay realizes that there are tears behind his eyes. He looks down for a minute, then back up at his daughter with love. "I'm so proud of you... You've done so many things...had so many accomplishments..." He reaches out to take her hand. "Somewhere along the way I lost my little girl...but you've grown into a woman that any father would be proud to call his daughter."
Clearing his throat awkwardly, he shrugs. "Life at home hasn't changed a whole lot. It's just Jess and me around the house most of the time with your siblings away from home now too. Business at the dog kennel is going alright...tax season is a mess..." He chuckles. "Picked up the hobby of fishing somewhere along the way so once the weather is nice we'll be camping out some."

Mick nods at Rosetta and throws an arm around her shoulders as they exit the hotel. "One of these days, this'll all be over," he promises quietly.
The drive to the hotel doesn't take long, and the three make their way to Katie's room again. Arriving, Jeff opens the door to let Rosetta and Mick in, only after entering, realizing that Katie's not alone. He raises his eyebrows as he sees his brother.

Turning around at the sound, Jay's eyes widen. He'd known Rosetta and Jeff might be here, but he had forgotten, and hadn't prepared for this meeting. He stands up from his chair, the strange nervousness returning.


Jason pulls off onto the shoulder of the road, his indecisiveness getting the best of him. He puts the truck in park and just lets it idle as his mind spins. This whole thing was just ridiculous. He hadn't told anyone about it so that it wouldn't become a huge deal, but instead, he was apparently making it worse by not saying anything. It was such a small thing that he'd hate to even say anything now, for fear of looking foolish. It was nothing for anyone to get excited over...in the broader view of the subject, the request had been nothing, compared to the world it lived in. It was such an insignificant thing! It would be like him saying it had all been over as stupid a subject as choosing what color to paint his office.

He groans and sets his head back against the seat. It really was silly the way this had turned out...Katie was worried about him, Wyatt thought he was doing something illegal...all because he'd simply kept this to himself. ...But he still didn't want to tell anyone...he knew nothing would come of all this, and not having anyone know would simply save him the embarrassment of announcing rejection. Why had he said yes in the first place?

He runs his hand along the bottom of the steering wheel as he thinks. He'd agreed thus far for the simple reason that this was something he'd always dreamed about, whether he'd let anyone in on that dream or not. He'd always known he wasn't good enough...
Getting through two meetings had sparked a slight hope, but he knew today would just pop that bubble. He shouldn't go... He looked a mess after his go-around with Wyatt, he didn't want to receive that look of rejection, and on top of all that....even if there was the remotest possibility that he was wanted...even if there was that ever-so-slight chance...how could he really say yes to it? He knew good and well that once he tasted it, he'd love it, and then he'd be forced to ride two roads. It would be impossible to balance what he already did...his job...his friends...then add something this on top of it.

Gritting his teeth, Jason puts the truck in gear and waits for traffic before turning around and heading back towards town. He just needed to forget about this whole thing. It was stupid of him to have pursued it this far to begin with. Cutting it off today was the safest route to take.

Get to Know me!

*Katie lets out a small laugh at Jay as he asks about Jason.* "Jason, No. At one point I wanted him to be, but that dident workout. Maybe even a small part of me still wants too. But I was hurt once and I just I dont know. Me and Jason stand as really close friends right now. We are really close and I dont want to push it. At times in his eyes I can see he wants more or feels more. But thats just not the story right now." *Katie goes into alittle bit more detail to Jay about Jason, his flowers, there feeling, and her ability to feel what he feels, before she moves onto a new topic.* "The other guy you hurd me....yell at I guess you could say Wyatt. He is my boyfriend. He's a really good guy. Really sweet, fun to be with. He's knows what he want and goes after it. He's so kind and caring. He'd put anyone before himself. I'd like you to meet him before you left I think." *Katie again goes into detail about Wyatt. What he is like, what they have done together. Katie feels a tad bit funny as she explains Wyatt to her dad. She new him, but she dident really "Know" him. There were so many dark courners yet to be discovered. So many secrets hiddon.* "So thats the guys in my light right now. It can get kind of crazy. but I deal the best I can." *Katie reaches into the little dresser and pulls out a pic of her car with her standing next to it and hands it to Jay* "Thats my car before it blew up. It sure was pritty. Ah well. So anyways...I work at TJY as a secratary, and sometimes work on the cases with the others. Or did anyways. If I cant walk again I probley will just stay a secretary. Oh ya, I was being Jason's bodyguard too." *Katie tells Jay more about her life in the last years and more about her life in Navada. Trying not to leave about any details finally bring herself to the currant.* "So thats me. what about you Jay? How is everyone? Anything exciting going on?"

*Rosetta gabs her stuff and giggles trying her best to smile.* "Lets get this show on the road."

Decision

“Dang it!” Wyatt tosses his phone into the passenger seat, and slams his palm down on his steering wheel. He leans over to rest his forehead on the wheel. “Lord, what am I doing?” This had to stop…was it time he just admitted he’d been wrong? Katie had been a spot of sunshine in his life ever since she’d started to work at TJY. He’d found her to be a loyal friend that offered compassion and fun. He’d taken a chance with his heart that had already been burned once, confident that maybe this time he had a real shot. And then Jason had come into the picture. Everything had been fine until he’d been hurt in Alaska, then had come back to TJY. After that, it had been nothing but tension. Both Jason and Katie would deny any form of relationship other than friendship between them, and yet their actions seemed to prove otherwise.
Wyatt didn’t believe either was outright lying…and Katie was not the sort of person to do anything behind his back or to ever be deceitful. But Wyatt had seen how she’d clung to Jason the last few weeks at the hospital…he’d seen how she depended on Jason…cared for him… Whether she recognized it herself or not, Wyatt was beginning to. Was what Jason and Katie had something that could be dissolved, or would it always exist? If it was to continue, Wyatt wasn’t sure he could keep trying like this.
Turning his jeep around, Wyatt heads back towards TJY. He’d give up on tailing Jason for now…and he wouldn’t try to do anything that might upset Katie right now…she had enough problems to worry about without him making it worse. When he felt she was ready, he would approach her about these things. In the meantime, he would continue to show the affection that he felt.
Halfway to TJY, he stops at a flower shop.


Jay’s eyes are slightly wide as Katie turns her attention back to him. “Wow…you’re right, I didn’t expect this, but it’s okay…” Finally, ever so small, a smile surfaces. “I guess maybe I need to stop trying to apologize for the past and simply try to get to know you again, if you’ll let me. I know it’s not easy for you because of the way I acted so long ago…and nothing I can say will erase that…I have to live with the consequences every day of my life.” He stops to sigh deeply. “So…tell me about yourself. You started talking about the guy who was in here…Jason…is he your boyfriend?”


Mick cleans up the kitchen counter, ready to leave the hotel. “All aboard who’s going aboard!”


Laura is just drying her hair from the shower after getting up late, and is trying to get some breakfast when the doorbell rings. “Oh, now what?” she grumbles. Trudging to the door, she opens it with annoyance. Her eyes widen, a delighted shriek erupting. “Con!” She stands on her tiptoes to throw her arms around him.

Con laughs and gives her a bearhug. “Hey, sister. Don’t mind I dropped in unannounced do you?”

“Mmm, never!” Laura lets him go and backs up, smiling from ear to ear. “I knew some of the others were come up to see Katie, but I wasn’t sure if you were or not. “So how are you? How have things been…”

Running Circles.

*Katie starts to grow a bit irrotated not with just Wyatt, but with them both. Kaite lets out a long sigh.* " Its nothing....its nothing...I HEAR ITS NOTHING FROM EVERYONE NOW DAYS. Both are you are running circles around me. Having me worryed sick than telling me its nothing. When you feel like telling me something you know where I am Wyatt, Why cant you trust me enough to tell me." *Katie hangs up the phone on the verge of tears. Looking over at Jay she shakes her head.* "I'm sorry I know this is not what ou exspected. but I'm all yours not."

nothing

“Me?!” Wyatt’s eyes widen. “You just…Jason?” He groans inwardly. Was this really going to work? Jason was everywhere. No matter what Wyatt did, there was Jason again. How was Wyatt supposed to tell Katie that he’d just slugged him? “I didn’t…” He shakes his head, keeping his voice even and calm. “Don’t worry about it. It’s nothing.”

What is going on

"Wyatt Reese, what did you do? I just got off the phone with Jason. What on earth is going on now?" *Katie trys to not sound angry.*

Answering

Jason flips his phone shut with a sigh and tries to refocus. He’s got to get himself clean up before meeting with Sheriff Brown again.

Wyatt picks himself up off the ground and slides into his jeep, angry at this whole thing. He rolls his eyes as his phone goes off. “Now what?” He takes a moment to start his jeep and pull it off to the side at a better angle for any traffic to go around him, and finally looks at his phone. Katie? That was a bit coincidental. He takes a deep breath to calm himself. “Hey, Katie. What’s up?”

Wyatt

*Katie eyes widen.* "Wyatt...what?" *Katie lets out a sigh.* "No I'm ok. I'll give Wyatt a call and see whats up thx J. Be safe." *Katie once again hangs up the phone than dials Wyatt's number. once again Waiting.*

Disgust

Jay looks at Katie, confused. He doesn’t understand what she’s trying to say, and is left hanging once again as she goes back to her phone. This wasn’t exactly what he’d imagined their talk being like.

Jason grimaces as he holds the phone to his ear, driving with one hand. “Yeah, I’m fine,” he answers, with just a bit of disgust. “Just a little sparring session gone wrong. I’m across town and am late for my meeting – you have your boyfriend to thank for that.” He rolls his eyes at himself, knowing he needed to watch his tongue. “You need anything?”

Are you

*Katie lets out a sigh as she closes her phone. Looking over at Jay.* " I guess I should explain to you of my uniqe abilitys huh. That guy you met Jason. Since I met him I have had a connection with him. I know when he is hurt or in danger. I ccan just tell. Its....." *Katie gets cut off as her phone ring. Pucking it up she answers.* "Jason where are you? Whats going on? Are you ok?"

Oops

Jay’s eyes fall. “I know…but I want to know you, Katie…I know I can’t gain back the time that’s gone, but I’d like to…” His voice trails off as Katie goes for her phone, a perplexed look crossing his face.

Wyatt and Jason stare each other in the eye. Suddenly Jason’s phone on his belt rings. He automatically glances down.

Wrong move.

Wyatt’s fist connects with his mouth. Jason is thrown backward into the side of the truck, wincing as his shoulder hits, and the taste of blood hits his tongue. Instincts overtake his logic and he lunges at Wyatt, ramming him against the bumper of his jeep. Crying out, Wyatt swings his elbow around, catching Jason’s left eye. Jason backs off to recover, just to be brought to the ground, forced to block more punches before he can use his legs to throw Wyatt off of him. As Wyatt rolls to the curb, Jason struggles to stand, going for his phone as it continues to ring. Flipping it open, he sees it’s Katie. His eyes widen. She knew.

Too late, he has to toss the phone through the open window of the truck before Wyatt is on him again. Stumbling to the side, his knee is wrenched and he cries out in pain, as it gives way, sending him to the asphalt. Determined not to go down alone though, he swings an arm at Wyatt’s ankles, taking him down with him. Both men lay still for several moments, just panting. Jason’s the first to rise, wiping the blood from his mouth with the back of his hand. He sways unsteadily, his knee shot, but he musters up his energy to glare down at Wyatt. “Leave it be, Wyatt. Tail me again and you’ll pay.” Backing away, he climbs back into the truck and starts the engine. Pulling away, he can’t help but look in his side mirror to make sure that Wyatt is picking himself up. This whole thing was just stupid. He was madder than a hornet, but he didn’t want to hurt anyone. Looking at himself in the mirror, he grimaces. His lip is split open, and he’s got a bruise near his eye from Wyatt’s elbow. Great. Just great.
Grabbing his phone, he calls Katie back and waits.

Call

*Katie sighs as she watching Jay.* "Thats the crappy thing about time I guess. You can turn it back. You missed so many years of my life. You dont even know who I really am. I know your sorry...its just hard." *As Katie talks to Jay a horrid feeling comes over her. Jason wasent hurt or wasent having a flashback it was something alse. Katie goes very quiet for a moment. Searching for answers Katies mind is still in a fog, not being able to pin point what is wrong.* "Excuse me a moment." *Katie picks up her phone and dials Jason's number waiting for him to answer.*

*Rosetta heads into the shower to get cleaned up for the day.*

Fight

Jason searches Katie’s eyes just for a moment to be sure she’s telling the truth, then nods. “Okay. I’ll be back in a while. I got my phone with me.” He grabs his bag and heads out, throwing one last glance over his shoulder before closing the door for their privacy.

Jay slowly sits down in a chair, finding it just a little difficult to meet Katie’s eyes. “I’m…I’m sorry, Katie. I guess I said all I thought I could in that email of mine, and then I wasn’t sure if you were really okay or if you still hated me, so…so I let the subject drop…again.”
He sucks in his breath as an unexpected tear surfaces, and he forces a short laugh, trying to regain control. “This is harder than I thought, ya know?” He shakes his head. “And it’s still all coming out wrong. I just…I just don’t know what to say…there’s nothing I can do to ever make up for what happened…I was wrong, I was stupid…and I was scared. And now…I thought I really had lost you…” He swallows hard. “And just seeing you here makes me realize just how much I’ve missed.”


Wyatt is suddenly alert as he spots Jason exiting the hospital and getting into Hal’s truck. “There you are.” He sits up straight and starts his jeep. “Where you headed, hmm?” He pulls out cautiously, keeping a safe distance away from the truck, but close enough not to lose track as they merge into traffic.

Jason heads to the edge of town, continuing to glance in the rearview mirror. He grips the steering wheel tighter. Wyatt must’ve really thought he was smart to pull a stunt like this. Was he stupid to think Jason wouldn’t have noticed he was being tailed? This was ridiculous. Did he have no rights anymore? No privacy?
Deciding to play the game, he speeds up and starts taking bogus turns.

Wyatt struggles to keep up, and loses Jason twice before gaining ground again. Where on earth was he going? Suddenly the truck disappears. Wyatt slows, looking all around, and down the side streets. Where had Jason gone?

Jason was fed up. Wyatt had no right to be following him. If he wanted to question his whereabouts he should have just asked instead of tailing him as if he were a wanted suspect of some sort of crime.
Jason dodges traffic and takes a hard right, then a left, losing Wyatt for just a moment. Hitting the accelerator, he takes a route that will swing him back around to the road he’d been heading down. Pulling out of the sidestreet, he doesn’t stop, but pulls directly out into traffic and slams on the breaks to block the right lane, risking getting t-boned.

Wyatt’s eyes widen as Hal’s truck comes out of nowhere to block his path. Breaks squealing, he applies the breaks and jerks his steering wheel around, skidding in a circle, barely missing the truck.
His heart racing, he takes just a moment to catch his breath, glad that for the moment, the street was deserted except for them.

Jason grits his teeth and exits the truck, anger flashing in his eyes. Seeing Wyatt get out of his jeep, Jason wastes no time. “What in blazes do you think you’re doing?!”

“Me?!” Wyatt throws his arms in the air. “You’re the one driving like an idiot!”

“Why were you following me in the first place?”

“Don’t I have a right to if I want?”

“Don’t I have the right to a private life?” Jason counters.

“Is that what you call it?” Wyatt stands up to him, despite needing to look up to see his eyes. “Sneaking around? Being evasive? You’re hiding something, Jase, and I want to know what it is.”

Jason’s face reddens, more from anger than embarrassment, though he feels stupid for allowing his actions to show more than intended. “I’m not hiding anything. Get off my case.”

“I want to know what’s going on! Why were you with the Houser County sheriff yesterday, huh? What’s with your roaming around without telling anyone where you’re going?” Wyatt sees the surprise in Jason’s eyes. “You should know better than to think you’re not being watched. So what is it? You in some sort of trouble? You double crossing someone? What?”

Jason’s hands tighten into fists. “Off me, Wyatt.”

“I want some answers!”

“Is this really about me?” Jason defies Wyatt’s authoritative tone. “Or are you just mad at me in general now because of Katie?”

Wyatt’s eyes narrow at the low blow. “Do I have anything to be mad about?”

“I don’t know, do you? You seem awfully bent on making me out to be the badguy all of a sudden. Ever since I got back, you’ve been breathing down my neck.” Jason pauses, not thinking before the next words fly out of his mouth. “Or is this really about Katie? You sure you’re not reliving something else? Like your infamous past with Crystal?”

Wyatt’s body weight shifts, his muscles instantaneously preparing for the thrust of his fist.

Talk

*Katie nods to Jason.* "I think I'll be ok J. Go do what you need to do. I'll be here when you get back and I have your number if I need you." *Katie looks at Jay again.* "Ok we can talk I dont plane on running away."

*Rosetta wakes and walks out into the other room. Seeing Mick and Jeff up she smiles.* " You guys were always early wakers." *Going over to the coffee pot Rosetta pours a cup of coffee.* " If you guys dont mind I'd like to go see Katie before we leave. I just want her to know again we are prayin and rooting for her."

Tension

Jay can’t help but be taken aback by Katie calling him by his name, though he knows he deserves it.

Jason can feel the tension thick in the air. He’s never forgotten the look in Katie’s eye when she’d told him about her past and what had happened. Shoving personal feelings aside, he stands up, offering Jay a cordial handshake. “Jason Stevenson. Nice to meet you.”

Jay accepts the hand and nods. “Pleasure.”

The short exchange doesn’t take up much time, and the silence is back. Jay glances to Katie, his awkwardness increasing by the second. “I…I got here as soon as I could…I didn’t…I mean…” He sighs at himself. “Can we talk?”

Jason raises an eyebrow and looks to Katie, unafraid to voice his question. “You alright?”

Jay

*Jamie smiles at Con.* "Well thank you Con." *Lingering for alittle bit.* "well I guess I will see you back at TJY."

*Katie laughs at Jason.* "Sounds good." *Kidingly she throws her head back on the pillow. Opening one eye to look at Jason she bursts out laughing. As the door opens and Katie see who is is her smile fades. She looks from Jason back to Jay.* "Jay...what...what are you doing here?" *Katie saprises herself. She just called her father by his first name. She did, but she dident feel comfortable enough to call him dad. He maybe her father but for the last several years he hasent been there for her. A new feeling over comes her. Not sure how to feel.* "Jason...this is my father Jay."

Visitor

Mick can see that Rosetta is bothered, and only wishes he has a solution.
The party is broken up, and Con goes with Jamie, while the other three head to the hotel. Once there, Mick and Jeff claim one room, giving Rosetta the other.
The drive to Jamie’s takes just a little while, and it’s quiet. Con doesn’t offer a whole lot of small talk other than subjects of what’s been happening at TJY, as he keeps a wary eye out for anything or anyone on the way, taking his role seriously. Once they near her place, he retrieves his cell phone to call a cab.


The sun cannot be held back by the night, and slowly rises to the horizon to spread its light once more.

Wyatt tries to stretch out in his jeep, but even with the seat back, it’s difficult to get comfortable. He’s been awake all night, watching the hospital door, but nothing had happened. Today though…he had a hunch Jason would be back out again, and this time he’d find out just where he was going. Something was strange, and he’d gotten Reese’s permission to check it out. They couldn’t afford any slip ups now. Jason was smart, but he was hiding something.


Jason rolls over and groans a little, not wanting to wake up. But he sighs and forces himself to sit up, yawning and rubbing the sleep from his eyes. He heads out of the room to clean up and change clothes, and comes back still feeling drowsy. Seeing Katie awake, he grins and flops down on the bed next to her. “Is it time for a nap yet?”


Jay rolls his eyes at the cab driver and pays him with cash. It had certainly taken him long enough from the airport. This whole trip had been nothing but a disaster from beginning to end. Having only a small bag slung over his shoulder, he makes his way into the hospital, his nervousness increasing. After inquiring about where Katie is, he heads to the next level, wandering down the hall. He stops in front of the half-closed door and swallows hard. His mind had been reeling all night of what he would say, what he would do…and nothing seemed to be enough. What could he really say?
Taking a deep breath, he slowly opens the door and steps inside.

Jason sees someone entering and quickly sits up, ceasing his playfulness. Who was this man? Studying him for just a moment, he suddenly wonders if this is Katie’s father…the resemblance is definitely there. He lets his eyes fall back to Katie with question. Was this her dad? If so, did she want Jason to stay or leave?

Jay lets his bag slide off his arm and settle to the floor. He stares at Katie in the bed, his heart breaking. He hadn’t seen her in so long…why had it taken something like this for him to take the time to visit? Even if he had thought she would reject him, he should have tried. Emotions pool behind his eyes, and he forces his feet to carry him forward, stopping several feet from the bed, his hands tucked awkwardly in his pockets. He eyes Jason with slight surprise…he hadn’t known Katie had a boyfriend. Looking back to his daughter, he musters up a slight smile, unsure how he will be received. “Hi, Katie…”


Mick sets a box of donuts on the kitchenette’s counter and calls to Jeff and Rosetta. “I know, I know, I’m such a health nut when it comes to breakfast, but this is all the quickmart on the corner had. Sorry.”

Jeff laughs and takes a donut for himself. “Mm, chocolate? Apology accepted.”

Mick rolls his eyes as he grins. “You two want to go back to see Katie one more time this morning before we go, I assume?”

Keep Going

*Katie smiles. Just was so thoughtful at times.* " As long as you come back J I think I will be ok. We will see how I feel in the morning." *KAtie knows the meeting is about what happended with the sheriff but dosent bother Jason with the question now that he is sleeping. Katie leands her head back aganst the bed and drifts off to sleep. Katie dreams about her Aunt and Mick, and Cindy and Wes..than she comes to herself. In front of her stand 2 men, Her crossroad. The sure safe path, or the long twisted hard road. Katie shoots up from bed glancing over at Jason. He was sleeeping so peacefuly. For a long while Katie watches Jason before she drifts off to sleep again.*

*Rosetta sighs and trys to keep her smile and nods.* "Ok we go back tomarrow than. Probley should let Austin know what going on so he is on high alirt." *Rosetta's face drops a bit.*

*As Jamie stands she smiles at Con. She knows her can make it home ok by herself but would never decline Con's company.* "Sure, I'd like that Con. I have a bit of a ways to go so it might be nice to have someone come along." *Jamie stands and smiles at the group.* " It was nice meetin you all. I hope to see you all again, and are safe. I will keep praying."

Night is closing

Jason laughs. "So who's here to protect me when my own bodyguard is holding me hostage?"
As Katie moves, he lifts his arm, stretching it out as it has grown a little numb, but he doesn't mind. He turns to look at Katie for a moment, feeling more content than he has in a long time.
Though spending most of his time here lately, it had taken until tonight to realize that Katie really did want and need his presence, and that in itself was enough to keep him here.

He cocks his head slightly. "You owe me no thanks, for anything, Katie...you should know that by now."
For just a brief instant, he remembers the moment out on the hotel balcony, and he bites his lip as the feelings return without warning. Swallowing hard, he sits up, trying to stop his face from reddening. Thankfully, the nurse's entrance provides a distraction, and he gives her a sheepish grin in reference to the bed. "Thanks. I've been curling up in that chair enough lately that I expected to wake up one morning and not be able to straighten out. I'll probably take you up on that bed this time."

When the nurse leaves, he's still sitting with Katie, and turns to her with an encouraging smile, setting aside any awkwardness he'd experienced just moments before. "Sounds like you're doing pretty well." Though the doctors haven't been too optimistic about Katie being able to walk again, Jason holds on to hope for her sake. "You'll be up and around in no time now." He gives her hand a squeeze and gets up, going over to the other bed and dramatically flopping down on it, his eyes already closed. "Tomorrow I got a meeting to go to" he mumbles sleepily. "But I won't go until someone else is here if you don't want to be alone." He lets his head sink into a pillow. "Night, Katie."


Mick looks at the others at the table with concern. "I don't like this..."

Con frowns. "Me either. I know you guys might want to spend more time with Katie, but if I were you, I'd get back to the ranch tomorrow. I'll have to talk to Reese about whether he wants me to stick around here for a while or not too."

Mick nods in agreement after receiving a look of approval from Jeff as well. "It won't do us any good to be scattered all over the place...not right now." He sets a hand on Rosetta's shoulder. "We should probably head to the hotel now just in case someone is close by."

Con tosses Mick the keys to the car. "Go ahead and take the car. I'll get a cab to take me to my place and I'll use my own car until I know whether or not I'm staying." He turns to Jamie. "Or if because of this, you want company on the way home, I can come along, and get a cab from your place. I don't want anyone from the Agency mistaking you as part of this gang."

Sleep

*As Katie stays snuggled with Jason the time seems to pass so fast. Dinner comes and goes the new movie playing. Hating to see the night end Katie thinks for a moment.* " I think I will hold you hostage. Its more fun that way." *Giving a silly grin Katie sits up a bit to let Jason move his arm.* "J, thank you." *Katie sits back.*

*As Katie sits back a nurse walks into the room.* "Well Miss, tomarrow you start your tharipy if your up to it. The Doc said you grained alot of your strength back fast. But be warned your gonna feel alot more pain befor this gets better. But it will be ok. Seem to me you have a good friend who is helping you as well. That always makes things easyer." *The nurse smiles at Jason than nods to the other bed in the room.* " That bed has fresh sheets on it. Your more than free to sleep in it if you like. More comfortable than that chair and because f the situation here we wont put another pashent in here. So its all yours." *The nurse checks Katie's charts than heads out of the room.*

*Rosetta sits down slowly and looks around the room.* " I...I dont know who it was but I can guess. All they said was " The war has started. The end is near, are you prepaired?" and than they hung up. My hunch says its the Agency."

Hostage

Jason chuckles as he takes the menu. "There's just so many choices, I don't know if I can pick." He grimaces. "I think you're right...the chicken sounds the best."
With his free arm he calls down to have their food brought up, and it's not long before their meal is there.

With a movie playing on tv, talk is minimal, but the atmosphere is peaceful. Once supper is through, Jason winds up kicking off his shoes and settling back with Katie again, his arm once again around her in an attempt to keep away her fears, only moving when the nurse comes in to check on Katie or readjust anything.

As the evening becomes late and another movie comes on, Jason finds his eyelids growing heavier and heavier. He rubs Katie's arm gently. "Psst...if I don't go claim that chair in the corner here pretty soon I'm gonna fall asleep right here." He offers a drowsy grin. "Think I can have my arm back, or are you going to hold me hostage?"


Mick looks up as Rosetta comes and sits down, and he can immediately see that something is wrong. "Rosetta, what is it? Who just called?"

The Phone Call

*Katie smiles as Jason hopes in the bed next to her and puts his arm around her. Katie always felt so safe in Jason's arms. He could chase away her fears in a blink of an eye. No matter his faults or how Katie felt sometimes, Jason was perfect. Katie looks at her little menu.* " So what wonderful hospetal food should we have tonight." *Katie rolls her eyes.* " Actully the fryed chick and corn with bread sounds good to me. How about you?" *Katie hands the menu over to Jason and she leans her head aganst his shoulder. Katie was happy to have Jason near. She was truly happy to have him as a friend.*

*The chatter at the restront is light and cheerful dispite the morbit feeling at the hospetal. Rosetta was happy to have seen Katie and known she was ok. The laughing, joking and storytelling play on late into the evening. Rosetta cell phone rings. Decieding it could be someone from the ranch she excuses herself and heads to the front of the restront Answering her phone.* "Hello?" *As Rosetta listens to the caller on the other end her smile fades and face goes pale.*" Who is this? Hello? Hello?" *Rosetta closes her phone and walks slowly back to the table siting down.*

The day isn't over yet

Jason immediately sees the fear in Katie’s eye and is taken aback for just a moment by her pleading. He honestly hadn’t thought his presence meant that much. He enjoyed being here with her, no doubt…but he hadn’t known it was that important to Katie.
His heart breaks all over again as he sees her tears. How could he have been so selfish? So what that he had an unresolved situation to deal with? So what that his mom was getting married? They were his problems, and he had no right to let them create a negative mood swing when he was supposed to be here for Katie.

As she looks away from him, he frowns. She should know better than to hide herself like that. She was going through something that no one should have to, and if anyone had a right to cry, she did.

He approaches silently, and reaches down with a gentle hand tucked under her chin to turn her face back to him. He gazes at her for a moment, before brushing away the tear with his thumb. “A promise is a promise…I’m not going to leave you alone.”

After several quiet seconds, he makes up his mind. A quirky grin forms and he reaches down to place his arms underneath Katie, and gently moves her over in her bed. Claming the now-empty space, Jason slides in next to her on top of the sheets, letting one leg hang off the edge, and slinging an arm around her shoulders for her to lean back against. “Now…” he grabs the television remote. “We’re going to find a movie to watch and…” he picks up the room phone as well. “…we’re going to get supper brought in here for the both of us, because I’m not near ready to give up on this day yet.”

Mask

* once again as Jason mentions not staying a look of fear pass in Katies eyes.* "No Jason...please you promised you wouldent leave me." *Desparation plays in Katie's voice. There was an unvoiced fear. One of the last times she had been in a real hospetal was when her mother and brother passed away. This braught a fear to Katie that she couldent explain.* " I care for you even when I am here to cover up my own fears. I do need you Jason." *Katie looks down at her hands, and down at her lower body in a cast a single tear forming in her eye.* " I'm really not that strong you know. Your not the only one who can put masks on." *Katie turns her head away from Jason. Embarssed that she was crying over nothing. But the truth was she was scaired, lonly, and dident know what was going to happen in her life. Everything was so messed up right now.*

Needed?

Jason slowly enters Katie’s room, not settling down into a chair just yet. Why he suddenly felt awkward, he wasn’t sure. It just seemed he was the outsider, and if everyone else was there, was his presence really wanted?
He offers a slight grin and shakes his head. “No…I haven’t eaten since lunch, but I was just thinking about it. I bet you’ll be brought your supper soon. I should go down to the cafeteria and get something for myself.” He stops and looks at he for a long moment. “Here you are, the one in the hospital bed, and you’re still taking care of me. Shouldn’t it be the other way around?” He glances downward, smirking at himself. Katie was so strong in any situation…and he continually failed at staying on top of things…if anything made him feel just a bit worthless, that would do it, let alone wondering if he was really even needed here. “I don’t have to stay the night here if you don’t want me to,” he mentions casually as he goes to retrieve some money for supper from his bag.

WOW

"Oh wow...thats great about Wes and Cindy. Jason never mentioned it to me." *Katie looks to the door wondering if Jason even new. The sicking feeling she has in her tummy told her he hadent but does now.* "Wish them the best for me." *Katie smiles.*

*Katie gives everyone a hug and a kiss as they leave and tells them she will see them in the morning. Jamie acepts the invitation and heads out with the others.*

*Look up at Jason in the doorway Katie nods.* " You can come in and sit down so we cant talk." *Katie smiles.* " They maybe my family, but I have always felt strange around them. Ohh..have you had anything to eat J? You need to remember what Rick said! For me?"