Jekyll and Hyde

"...but I had plans to..."

Reese looks at his son with a raised eyebrow. "More important than work? Until we've heard from Sheriff Brown about the pardons, I'm going to function on the more severe cases as we were. I don't want to let this one by - that man over in Jackson is going to be assassinated if someone doesn't go an intervene, and you're it."

Wyatt sighs. He'd be out of town all day. "Alright. Give me directions. I'll go to the authorities first, and if they don't act, I will. I'll stick to protocol so no attention is attracted in our direction."


"He's out?!" Phil's eyes widen. "Well praise the Lord! How's he doing?"

Con shakes his head as he stacks another board onto the pile out back of the building. "Not great...it's been a shock to his system I think." The hurt still lingered from Jason's words to him the night before...and he wouldn't even speak to Con this morning. They'd fought before, but it never hurt less, and Con knew that Jason was hurting the most. He also knew that things weren't going to get better between Jason and Katie, but he didn't want to be a gossip, so he refrained from telling Phil.

"I bet." Phil nods, his excitement toning down. "The guys and I should come on down and see him."

"He'll be up to Mike's to pick up his bike here sometime, I'm assuming," Con muses. "You might just call him and have him come there or something...I'm sure he's been dying to get back to the band."

"And boy have we been dying to get him back!" Phil's mind starts to reel with ideas. "We should have a real get-together. I'll talk a few things over with Jen."


Jason makes his way down the hall of TJY. He’d gotten in late that morning after refusing a ride from Con and instead, walking across town. He had avoided eye contact with everyone, speaking to no one. He hadn’t seen Katie, though wasn't sure he wanted to right now. He’d barely slept last night, the turmoil locked inside beginning to eat away at him.

All he wanted this morning was to blow off some steam, and the shooting range was all he could think of. He felt so out of place it was driving him mad, and he had no where to turn, no one to talk to. Anyone he thought to call he hadn't had contact with since he'd been in prison, and it felt too awkward to approach any of them. And besides that, he wasn't so sure he wanted to tell anyone yet what had happened. So instead, he kept his barrier firmly in place, supported by his anger.

Entering the end of the room downstairs, Jason stops. This was ridiculous. He wanted to be alone…and not only did someone have to be down here already, but why did it have to be Scott? Was someone purposely trying to torture him?!

Scott’s eye catches movement to the side, and he lowers his now-empty handgun. He pulls off his protective earmuffs, wondering at the ticked-off look on Jason’s face. Warily, he decides to exit, leaving the downstairs room to Jason. He rarely came down here, but this morning after checking on Katie then doing a bit of work, he'd decided to get away from computer troubles for just a few minutes and have a little bit of target practice. He puts everything away and aims for the door, but Jason intentionally moves in front of it, his arms crossed, forming a challenging barrier.

Scott stops and looks up at him. “Excuse me…”

Jason grits his teeth. “Why don’t you stay and we talk?”

“About…?”

Jason knew where all this had originated, and wasn’t afraid to use it. He’d heard everything. “About how you buy cars to steal other people’s girlfriends.”

Scott bristles at the blatant accusation, though fear slowly seeps in. Somehow, Jason had already found out about him and Katie. “I’m sorry, but…I never have, nor will I ever purchase anything with the intent of stealing anyone’s girlfriend.”

“Sure.” Jason’s voice drips with disbelief. “So what was it…a token of good friendship? A bribe so someone would hang out with you? A last ditch effort to get some attention?”

Heat rises to Scott’s face. All he’d done was give a gift to someone he saw needed a pick-me-up. He hadn’t spent a dime…just cashed in on a favor. Katie had been in need of a vehicle, he’d seen the need and helped out. Period. What had happened after that had nothing to do with the car. But trying to explain that to Jason would be pointless. “Let it go, Jase,” Scott advises. “This isn’t worth arguing over.”

Jason’s eyes narrow. “Maybe not to you. But I’m the one who was told by Katie that she’d wait for me…stick around…she couldn’t stand being without me. I get back and not only has that apparently changed, but I find out she’s been dating the office geek – now how would you feel?”

Scott was used to the name-calling, though this time it stung just a little. “If someone like Katie chose someone else over me,” he returns boldly, “then I’d seriously consider how big of a jerk I’d been to push her away.”

Anger flashes in Jason’s eyes. “You’ve gotten pretty brave, you know that?”

In reality, Scott was shaking in his boots. His irritation and desire to stand up for what was between him and Katie was the only thing that was helping him hold his ground. “I’m just stating a fact. Now come on, and let me pass.”

Jason doesn’t move. “You went too far, Scott,” he warns. “I’m not going to take this lying down.”

“What do you want to do?” Scott holds out his arms to the sides, starting to get fed up. “Slug me? Go ahead, if it’ll make you feel better. I have done nothing other than have a heart, which apparently you are incapable of.”

Jason has spent too long being taught to react in the moment…too long being taught that to fight is the only way to win…too long being taught to take a challenge with force…too long learning to enjoy the adrenaline rush of a fight and letting his tempter take over. Ignoring all sense of right and wrong, and blinding himself to what he was about to do, he takes Scott’s offer and swings.

Scott doesn’t even have time to react before Jason’s hard knuckles meet his mouth with the force of a sledgehammer. His head whips to the side, knocking him off balance. He falls to the floor, barely catching himself with his hands. His left wrist buckles, pain shooting through his hand and up his arm. The taste of blood enters his mouth and he spits, realizing he’s just lost a side tooth. A sharp throbbing spreads through his jaw.

Before he can even right himself, Jason is on top of him. He’s rolled over onto his back as Jason delivers more blows to his face, then his ribs. Scott holds up his arms, trying to block the punches, wincing as his wrist is hit, and as most of his blocks do no good. The Jason he had known might have slugged him, though that probably would have been it. But this new Jason was unpredictable and Scott feared he wouldn’t stop.

Somehow, he’s finally able to wriggle free of Jason’s weight, and tries to crawl away despite his weakened wrist, but Jason pulls him back by an ankle. Scott twists around to look up at him, pleading with him. “Don’t do this…” Blood runs from several cuts on his cheek and from his mouth and nose. He was no match for Jason's strength and skill, and he couldn’t take much more.

But Jason no longer sees a friend, but an enemy created by an anger that blinds him to what he is doing. He doesn’t want to listen, and drags him closer, aiming a kick to Scott’s gut. Scott doubles over as the boot lands hard on his stomach. Jason was angry and there was no stopping him.


Carson skips down the stairs, aiming for the shooting range. On break, it was a good time to do some practice. He hadn’t fired a shot in quite a while, and didn’t want to grow rusty at this point.

Reaching the door he swings it open, but stops dead in his tracks at the scene before him. Jason is on top of Scott, relentlessly beating on him. Carson didn’t know all that had happened, but his instincts told him that Scott needed his help – he wasn’t the type of person who would have started this fight.

Stepping in quickly, Carson grabs Jason from behind. “Whoa, whoa, stop, Jason.”

Jason whirls around and takes a swing at Carson.

Carson ducks and jabs at Jason’s shoulder to spin him back around, then reaches up to put him in a choke hold, having just a bit of difficulty with Jason’s height. Jason had to bend backward not to be choked by his shorter adversary, and grabs at Carson’s arm. “Let me go,” he hisses.

“Calm down,” Carson orders sternly, grabbing one of Jason’s arms to twist it behind his back.

Jason fights him, but in this position there’s not much he can do, and as far as brute strength was concerned, Carson was probably an equal opponent. “Get off of me!” he growls.

“Not until you cool it!” Carson struggles to hold Jason back, and glances down to the floor. “Scott….Scott, are you alright?”

Scott winces and rolls over on his side to curl up, just trying to breathe without it hurting.

Carson grits his teeth and pulls Jason over to the side of the room, slamming an elbow into the intercom button. “Rick, get down to the lower level on the double.”

“What is it?”

“Just come on,” Carson replies with exasperation. He moves back closer to Scott, still keeping Jason under control. “Scott, can you get up? Rick’s on his way down.”

Scott is pretty sure that he’s receiving help but the dazed fog blurs everything. He manages to get to his knees, still holding his stomach and ribs, the blood still flowing from his nose and mouth while he cradles his wrist. He swallows hard and winces, lifting his head to see where his help had come from. “Carson…”

“You’re alright,” Carson nods. “Just sit tight a minute.”

“Good land, what is going on?!” Rick quickly crosses the distance to Scott, crouching down next to him.

Jason glares at Rick. “Don’t ask. Just get him out of my sight.”

Carson tightens his grip around Jason’s throat and puts more pressure on his twisted arm. “Now, now, I said to cool it.”

Rick looks up with an angry concern. “Jason, you did this?”

Carson intervenes. “Just get Scott out of here, Doc.”

Rick frowns, but turns back to his task. “Come on, Scott…can you get up?”

Scott lamely reaches up for the support of Rick’s shoulders, finally getting to his feet, though remaining hunched over.

The two make their way slowly back up to the main level and to the infirmary where Rick makes Scott sit on the edges of the bed, tilting his head back to try and stop the nosebleed. “What happened?”

Scott doesn’t answer. He didn’t know what to think, and was hurting too much to care.

Rick purses his lips and looks over to Misty grimly, gesturing for her to come and help. “Alright, at least your nose isn’t broken. What’s wrong with your mouth?”

Scott gingerly opens his mouth to show the bloody pool where his tooth belonged.

“Ooh, nice.” Rick cringes. He prepares a solution to treat it, and makes Scott hold in his mouth a cotton swab to get the bleeding to stop. “Misty, clean up those cuts on his cheek, will you, please?”

He pulls up Scott’s shirt and makes him straighten, feeling of his ribs. “Hurt?”

“Mm.” Scott nods as he winces at Rick’s prodding.

“Well, you might have a couple cracks, but nothing too major. We’ll tape you up good to keep everything as still as possible, but that’ll just have to heal on its own.” Rick sighs and puts his hands on his hips, giving Scott another once-over. He notices the bent wrist and shakes his head. “What about that?”

Scott’s answer is slurred as he speaks without moving his mouth much. “I dn’t knw…I thnk I sprned it.”

Rick lifts up Scott's hand, his face showing his concern as his fingers feel it gently. “I think you’ve got a fracture here, bud. I’m going to have to x-ray it. Come on. Misty, help me out here, will ya?”

A while later, Scott is back sitting on the bed, a small bandage on his cheek, cotton still in his mouth, his ribs taped and his wrist in a splint. His black and blue eyes stay glued to the floor.

Rick stands back and folds his hands across his chest. To him, Scott looked like a little boy who had been beaten by a bully on the way home from school. But he still hadn’t said what happened. “Well, I don’t want you using that wrist of yours unless absolutely necessary for three weeks so that fracture heals. I also want you to see a dentist. There’s part of your tooth left in there and I’m not going to dig around and make it worse.” He sighs deeply. “Can you make it home alright?”

Scott nods numbly.

“Are you going to tell me what happened now?”

Scott lifts his head, his eyes pleading with Rick. “Don’t tell Katie,” he manages.

“What? Why?”

Scott’s eyes go back to the floor.

Rick shakes his head. “Fine. Don’t tell me. But what are you going to do? Leave town for three weeks so when you get back there’s no evidence left? I don’t know why you don’t want Katie to know, but that’s about as impossible a task as you’re going to get.”

Scott knows Rick is right…and somewhere in the back of his mind, he remembers his promise to Katie never to lie or hide. He just didn’t want her feeling any guilt for this… “You’re right,” he mumbles.

Sliding off the edge of the bed, he stands to slowly make his way to the door, holding his side as he goes, taking his time. Looking both ways down the hall before exiting, he makes sure Jason isn’t around, then heads out to the main floor. He needed to get his keys from his desk before he could leave.


Jason starts to weaken against Carson’s hold, though he still fights.

“Would you just stop?!” Carson doesn’t give up, and gives Jason a hefty jolt. “Cut it out before you hurt yourself!”

As Carson increases his pressure, something suddenly clicks, and like a light being turned on, Jason begins to realize just how out of control he was. It’s almost as if what had just happened hadn’t been him, but his sheer frustration and anger…something that all of a sudden had taken over just as it had so many times in the last months...something that allowed him to use force without feeling it.

Jason starts to see what he’d just done, and the images of Scott flash in his mind. The shame was back and in full force to join with his frustration and anger.

Carson can feel him starting to relax, and loosens his grip, gradually letting him go. “What’s going on, Jason?” he asks calmly but sternly. “Why did you do this?”

Jason stares numbly at the floor. Because something was being taken from him…because he had no control over anything anymore…because his livelihood was slipping from his grasp… because for an instant, he had hated Scott.

He doesn’t even answer Carson as he aims for the door, his head down as he trudges forward, almost in a daze. Once in the hall, his body finally begins to retaliate against the emotional stress he’s put himself through.

Barely making it into the bathroom, Jason sinks to the floor by the toilet to throw up, his muscles beginning to shake. What had he done…?


Carson heads back upstairs, stopping by the infirmary on his way to the main floor. The shooting range was forgotten. He enters and glances around. "Is Scott alright?"

Rick purses his lips grimly. "He will be - it wasn't pretty though. Where's Jason?"

"Downstairs puking his guts out."

"Do you know what's going on?"

"Nope." Carson glances to Misty, then back to Rick. "Many a similar fight has started over a girl though."

Storm

*The ride home is quiet as Katie leans her head aganst the car window. Silence is what she needed. Her mind was tired and almost blank. Except for the dull feeling something was wrong with Jason. He was upset about something but Katie couldent tell to what exstent or about what as there is a wall blocking the path. Katie figured it was about what happend at work and though maybe it was good he did have one up or who knows what would happen. Pulling up to the house Katie lifts her head and grabs her bag opening the passanger side door.*

"I think I'm ok to make it inside."

*Katie reaches out and gives Scott's hand a gental pat.*

"Thanks again Scotty. I'll see you tomarrow."

*Slowly Katie gets out of the car and enters the house a greeting Henry at her feet. Reaching down Katie gives him a soft pat and heads for her room. Forgeting about her tea Katie lays down on her bed and closes her eyes. Feeling Henry's cold noise on her cheek she reaches out to give him a pet than brings her arm down around him falling fast asleep.*

*A bit of disapointment show on Aerith's face at the note of not going out tonight buts its soon chased away about tomarrow. Smiling she gives a nod.*

"Ok, that sounds good to me. Well I better help clean up before I have to go home. Thank again Wyatt."

*As the night pushes on Aerith soon heads home thing time not having much trouble at all. After trying to convince and alittle bit of arguing with her grandmother Aerith is done with her chorse and ran her grandmothers bath Aerith was whooped. Crawling under her covers Aerith is fast asleep in minutes.*

*Katie sleeps sound through the night Henry never leaving her side as if knowing something was wrong.*

*The Night is long and rain rolls in, thunder crashes, and lighting flashes. The sky is angry, than all is quiet as the morning sun peaks. The calm before the storm, the clouds in the sky saying the sun would only stay for so long, and so another day starts with a fear of whats to come.*

*Katie slowly makes her way into TJY. Giving a nod of thanks to Laura for bring her in today Katie makes her way for her desk. She was still a bit tired this morning from the events of yesterday and the cloudy day dident help much. Giving a sigh Katie turns on her computer and thumbs though some paper work left for her. Keeping her mind busy right now so it, itself dident shut down was probley the best thing.*

*Aerith hurrys out of the house. She awas unable to get out of the house this morning without her grandmothering seeing her and asking where she was going. Apone telling her they got into a fight and now Aerith was going to be late for work. As she pulls out of her drive way she called Mable apolizing for being late on her second day and she was on her way. Finally a while Later Aerith arrived and enters. After puting some of her stuff in the back she starts her opening work for the day than is ready to go. A bit of excitment builds in her as the time pass slowly and she awaits to see Wyatt again in the afternoon.*

*Jamie makes her way to her desk giving a yawn. She was pretty tired this morning. She spend most of her night on the phone with Con, and was now paying for it. But the lak of sleep was worth it, Something had been upseting Con last night and just needed someone to talk too. Jamie felt bad for him, he explained alittle of what was going on and how he was caught between two friends.

Jamie writes herself a little note reminding her to bring lunch to Con today and sticks it to her computer screen.*

Afternoon to Night

Scott doesn’t even hesitate. “Sure. Come on, I’ll take you home.” He throws a few looks at people who are watching, warning them not to get involved.

After grabbing his keys, Scott doesn’t even bother telling Susanne or Reese he’s leaving, and helps Katie outside and to his car. He remains quiet on the way to Katie’s, respecting the silence. He wasn’t sure what would happen now…this triangle with him, Katie and Jason was getting tight, and soon, he feared something would give way.

Reaching the house, Scott pulls to a stop. “You need help inside, or are you alright?”


Wyatt smirks at Mabel and shakes his head a little, resuming his conversation with Aerith. “Can’t tonight…I gotta work late.” A thought strikes him that if things don’t work out as planned at TJY, he might suddenly be taken by the law at any given time…promises at this point shouldn’t be made.

“I’ll probably be back in here tomorrow though to check on things and make sure those goons don’t come back. If by then I have enough nerve to ask you out, I will.” He can’t help the sly grin that quirks the corner of his mouth.


…Con looks up from the kitchen table where he was sorting through mail. It was late…he hadn’t worried about Jason, but seeing him enter now, told him that something was wrong. “Hey, Jase…”

Jason throws him a look. “How about you? Did you know?”

Con is taken aback? “What are you talking about?”

Jason glares at him. “Scott.”

Con’s face pales a little. How had Jason found out? Had Katie talked to him already? Surely not.

His silence is all the answer Jason needed, and he scoffs, turning to go to the living room. “I’ve got a load of friends left, you know that? Real friends. Thanks a lot, Conrad.”

Just ask

*As Katie stands she wraps her arms around herself. Her body in shock and pain. Looking around the office floor she see many more eyes looking at her as her head starts to spin.*

"Maybe I should go home. Get some tea and crawl into bed."

*Katie still puts most her weaght on Scott as she trys to stand and gain her stregnth again. What had happend drained her like never before. It was something Katie never wanted to feel again.*

"Umm..Scott...I know this is alot to ask, But can we leave my car here and can you drive me home? I dont have enough strength to even try and drive at the moment. Than in the morning eather you or Laura and bring me back into work?"

*Katie trys her best to smile at Scott not wanting him to worry to much.*

*Aerith cant help but grin at Wyatt.*

"Ya well if you need me to battle next time I'll just grab my purse and wack them over the head a few times."

*As Wyatt comment about him asking her to dinner Aerith's grin widens as her cheeks get a hint of red in them.*

"Well I am free tonight after I help my grandmother if you want to ask."

*As Mable pass she throws an elbow into Wyatt's arm and whispers.*

"For goodness sake ask the girl on a date already."

*Herb pokes his head out from the back room.*

"Mable, get over here would you."

*Mable cant help but throw a grin and wink at Aerith than hurrys along behind the counter.*

"Coming dear."

*Aerith shakes her head and laughs.*

"Those two crack me up."

You're welcome

Scott puts his arms around Katie as she leans against him, trying to form a shelter, though he knew it was probably inadequate for the storm she was facing.

At her request, he lets her go and stands, helping her up with him and holding her steady. He instinctively reaches out to wipe away the tears from her cheeks. “You sure you want to stay? Would you rather go home?”


Though it hurts, Wyatt gives Aerith a little grin. “You don’t have to thank me, but for what it’s worth, you’re welcome. I think Herb deserves most of the thanks in this one though.”

Receiving the kiss to the cheek, Wyatt’s eyebrow rises slightly. Giving a little chuckle, he shakes his head. “If it’s three against one again, I’ll let you help. But as far as going out is concerned, isn’t that my job to ask you, not the other way around?”


A knock to Jason’s door brings him out of his stare. “Yeah.”

Ty opens the door and throws Jason a grin. “Well, if it isn’t Hotshot. Good to see ya.”

“Hey, Ty.” Jason’s own smile forms, despite the unhappy feelings inside. “What are you doing here?”

“Oh, I start early some evenings now,” Ty admits. “Hal’s got the night off, so I figured I’d get a jumpstart.” He gestures to his trash bin in the hall, then to Jason’s waste basket. “Didn’t happen to accumulate anything today, did you?”

“Nope.” Jason shakes his head. “I haven’t done any work at all worth talking about.”

Ty is quiet for a moment, then leans on the doorframe in thought. “Rough?”

“A bit.”

“Gonna stick around?”

Jason raises an eyebrow. “Why wouldn’t I?”

“I dunno…just with things changing around here. TJY at risk, maybe going public, risking everyone ending up where you were…people changing.”

“People?” Reese had told Jason about the deal with Sheriff Brown, and though none too happy that TJY had been risked over getting him out of prison, it was done and over with and now all he could do was sit tight like everyone else. But what was Ty implying about people?

“Oh…well…” Ty searches Jason’s face for a moment. “Nevermind.”

“No, what did you mean?”

“Nothing,” Ty insists, his face starting to grow red. He turns to go, but Jason stops him.

“Ty!” Jason throws up his hands, bewildered. “What’s wrong? What aren’t you telling me?”

Ty bites his tongue. He hadn’t meant anything by his comment, and now his own fumbling around was getting him in even deeper. “I just meant…you know… seeing people after so long…they might have changed…so that can be rough.”

Jason’s eyes narrow. There was more. He begins to bristle just like he had earlier. Why couldn’t things just go back to the way they were? Why did he have to feel so far out of the loop? Why were people walking on eggshells around him? Why couldn’t they just treat him like they always had?

He looks at Ty sternly. “Are you going to tell me the truth, or do I have to force it out of you?”

Light

*As Katie hears Scott's voice and feels the warmth of his hand Katie's lungs open up as she finally is able to gasp for air she had forgoten to breath in the last few moments. Slowly Katie pulls herself up leaning aganst Scott. Her mind still tormented by what happend,but starting to clear. As before the soft light starts to glow slowly chasing away the shadows. In a horse whisper Katie speaks.*

"Jason...I...He...It was my fault."

*Turning her werry face to Scott she can see the consern in his eyes. Feeling a bit of embaressment Katie turns her head again wondering how many people had hurd what had happend.*

"I'll...be ok Scott...thank you. Please, can...can you just help me to my desk? I dont feel so hott."

*Katie starts to try and stand but wobbles alittle still left feeling weak and exsausted from what happend. Her face slowly regaining color but under her eyes still dark.*

*Mable looks up from sweaping and shakes her head at Wyatt.*

"Its ok Hun, Dont worry about it. This hasent been the first fight and I am sure it wont be the last. Just let that girl fix ya up."

*Mable gives a wink and smiles. She couldent help but notice the way Aerith looked at Wyatt.

Seeing the look on Mable's face Herb shakes his head and cant help but smile.*

"Mable leave them alone and help me with this table."

*Aerith cant help but give a giggle at Herb and Mable before turning her attachen back to Wyatt. She liked them all ready. Puting the cloth down Aerith brings her one hand to her wrist where it was already starting to bruse and welt from where she was grabbed with force.*

"Yes I'm ok. Just a bit shaken is all. If you wernt there Wyatt I dont know what I would of done. So thank you again."

*Leaning in Aerith gives Wyatt a small thank you kiss on the cheek. Siting down on the stool across from him she lets out a sigh.*

"So I guess I owe you now. Maybe we can go to a movie, or dinner, or something. I'd say I would save you but I think think I would need to."

*Aerith gives alittle grin.*

Help

Katie’s cry reaches Scott’s ears like an alarm going off. Immediately on his feet, he exits his cubicle to jog down between spaces until he spots Katie around the corner, lying on the floor. His heart skips a beat.

“Katie!” Approaching with haste, he slides to his knees next to her. His face pales with concern, not knowing what has happened, and he lays a hand on her arm. “Katie, what’s wrong? Are you hurt?”


Jason’s head shoots up at the sound of Katie’s scream. Not putting two and two together yet, he’s quick to exit the breakroom and jog down the hall. Hitting the main floor though, he stops. Seeing Katie on the floor, he now knows good and well what’s just happened. He had intentionally tried to hurt her, and had succeeded.

Shame collides with his anger. He starts forward again, but stops a second time as Scott arrives on the scene first.


Scott feels someone’s eyes, and looks up in time to see Jason. Locking eyes, it suddenly hits him that something may have gone haywire with the emotional connection, and it could only mean Jason was at fault. And it doesn’t make Scott happy.

His look turns into a glare before turning his attention back to Katie, ignoring Jason altogether.


Jason receives Scott’s glare like a kick to the gut. The shame and anger increase. He wants to go to Katie and try and fix what he’d just done, but apparently she already had help. Maybe he couldn’t help anyway…maybe he just wasn’t capable of doing anything right anymore.

Frustrated, he spins on his heel and stalks back to his office.


Just a little dazed, Wyatt numbly accepts help from Aerith, wincing a little as she cleans his face. He licks the split in his lip as the bleeding slows and looks at her for just a moment, for the first time, noticing the depths of her blue eyes.

Glancing away, he ignores her comment and looks to Herb and Mabel. “Sorry…I’ll help clean up the mess as soon as I catch my breath.”

He lowers the ice from his head and looks back to Aerith. “You alright?”

Darkness

*As Katie makes her way across the floor the emotions she feels come at her with such force it sends her to her hands and knees on the floor give a suddon scream along with it. The feels Jason were feeling all mixed into one. Katie had felt them before but this time they gave her a certin sence of fear. Darkness romed with these feelings. Trying to calm herself and take them in this time for some reson Katie couldent. They came so fast and hard. All Katie can do is stay till on the ground, gasping for air unable to find her breath as the tears slowly fall from her eyes. This was Jason's doing, but Katie couldent understand why.*

*Aerith find Herb in the stock room with Mable as she trys to catch her breath Mable looks at her knowing something was wrong.*

"Whats wrong dear?"

*Aerith continuse to gasp.*

"There...is a fight..Wyatt...he tryed to help...and now...he's fighting...with three...guys."

*Hearing this Herb drops what he is doing and hurrys from the stockroom and out into the restront grabing a shotgun from behind the counter. Going over to where Wyatt and the three attackers were Herb points the gun at Stan and shouts.*

"Get out of my restront now and dont come back or I wont hesatate to shoot you."

*Herb talks with such a voice it could shake even the roughest of people.*

"GET OUT NOW."

*Stan slowly stands holding his now broken nose and nods to the other two to head for the door. With in minutes they are out the door and driving away. Herb walks back over to the counter and uncocks the gun puting it away.

Aerith hurrys over to Wyatt helping him up to the counter.*

"Oh Wyatt are you ok?"

*Before he has a chanse to answer Aerith walks behind the counter and gets some water than puts some ice in a towel. Walking back over to Wyatt Aerith puts the ice on his head than takes his hand and brings it up to the towel for him to hold it in place. Taking another towel she dips it in the water and slowly and gently cleans the cuts on his face. Locking eyes with him for a moment.*

"For someone who works in a wairhouse you fight pretty good. Thank you."

*Herb and Mable go over to the door and lock it turning the sign to closed. There was alot of cleaning up to do before they could open again.*

Fight

Jason starts to feel worse as Katie talks, and begins to tense even more. He really didn’t want to argue, but he’d lived for fighting and now he’d almost forgotten how to back down.

He’d wanted to be back here for so long that he’d been able to taste it. Yet now, all he wanted was to be left alone. The shock he was going through confused and angered him. He didn’t know how to respond to it.

As Katie leaves, Jason lets his fist fall onto the table. Angry, he closes his eyes for a moment, tearing down his own barrier, and hurling his raw emotions out with force. He knows it’s a rash move that causes more pain than need be, like ripping duct-tape off of skin instead of treating it with care. But if Katie wanted to feel his confusion, hurt, loneliness and anger, she’d get it.

Though always a release in pressure when allowing his emotions to surface, too much anger clouds his mind, making him feel anything but good. His emotional pool empty, he folds his arms on the table to lean forward and bury his face, once again exhausted.


Wyatt goes down hard, the back of his head slamming into the floor. Wincing, he barely has enough time to brace himself as he’s attacked. Shifting his weight, he draws up his leg to jam his knee into one guy’s stomach.

Receiving a blow to his jaw, he tries to gain any upper hand by throwing his own fist, nailing Stan square on the nose. Rolling over to get to his feet, he feels a kick to his gut and doubles over in pain. His eye catches movement, and he uses his bent frame to ram one of his opponents, lifting him up as he straightens, sending him up and over Wyatt’s shoulders and back down, slamming into the table.

Spinning around, Wyatt can feel the blood running from his lip as he tries to fend off his adversaries. Something in his brain reminds him that three to one odds aren’t in his favor, but he doesn’t have much of a choice right now but to try and fight his way out. He was trained for this, but never did like a brawl.

Grabbed from behind, Wyatt feels both arms pinned behind his back as Stan comes at him from the front. Absorbing several more hits to the face and ribs, Wyatt finally manages to shift his weight enough to use the men behind him as balance, lifting both his feet off the floor and kicking with force, directly into Stan’s gut.

The backward movement shoves the other two men back into a table and Wyatt crashes back to the floor with both of them. Though holding his own, he knows he’s gonna need some help here pretty quick or he’s going to take a hit that will knock him out for sure. A chair is swung in his direction and he ducks, witnessing one of their own getting hit hard with the furniture. It would have been funny if Wyatt hadn’t been in this position.

Sorry

*Katie eyes Jason for a moment as a sadness comes over her.Even a bit of shock by Jason's tone.*

"No one is avoiding you J. Maybe I am stupid, but everything WILL be ok. As for you opening up you know when it comes to being with me it helps you. It always has and you always insist on keeping it in anyways even though I dont understand why. I never turned away before cuz of your feelings."

*Katie stands throwing her dish into the sink.*

"I'm sorry you feel like I am treating you with kid gloves. You have been gone for more than a year, everyday I wanted to see you again, to hold you..I wanted to be able to help you cuz I new you would be hurting. I sure as heck know I would be. If Care and worry is treating you like a kid I am sorry. Your right though maybe I should of waited at least a day till you were settled. I guess I just imagend everything differntly. I'm sorry J. I dident mean to make you feel like you would rather be in prison than with me. I'm sorry. Let me know when your settled in and we can both start enjoying life again. You know where my desk is if you need me. I'll be waiting."

*Katie walks slowly out of the break room. The destination in mind her desk. Anything to keep her mind busy as her heart crumbled and her spirit broke.*

*As Stans arm is twisted backwards his other buddys stand ready to defend him as Stan though in pain grins.*

"Well Well Well....if it isent the night in shinning armour."

*The guy across from Stan snickers.*

"Whats the matter dont like to shair you Girlfriend? I would think you would be honnered someone alse would take intrest in her. Means she is pretty and worth something."

*The guy next to Stan growls.*

"Why dont you just mind your own busness pretty boy let us have out fun and you wont get hurt."

*As Wyatt twists Stan's arm he brings his leg out from under the table hooking Wyatt's foot and pulling it from underneath him. The other lung for him.*

*Aerith watches in fear. Looking around the dinner it is pretty empty at the moment and Mable was in the back room with Herb. Acting fast Aerith goes into the back room to try and find Herb for help.*

*Wes smiles. His heart sang with joy that Cindy liked the house. Wes was happy, he had a wife he loved dearly and a wonderful new home. What more could he ask for.*

"As soon as you feel up to it. Yes it does and I figure we dont have alot to fill it now. But little by little we can get more and soon, we are gonna have to much."

*Wes own excitment shows in his voice over the differnt plains that were being made.*

Respected

Scotty? Jason quirks an eyebrow. When had that nickname started?

He rubs Katie's hand thoughtfully with his own for a moment, receiving her words quietly. But an irritation is sparked, despite the good intentions.

"Why does everybody think me spilling my guts is the answer all the time?” Jason shakes his head a little as he frowns. “You’re so matter-of-fact just like everybody else. ‘It’ll be okay.’ ‘Just give it time.’ ‘We’re all rooting for you.’” A slight scowl forms. “Is everybody that stupid to think that’s all it takes?”

Jason lets go of her hand to crumple up his sandwich wrapper, dropping his eyes to the table. He was beginning to feel his barrier now, and recognized that look in Katie’s eye that begged him to open back up again. But he ignores it for the moment. “What more am I supposed to give? Or be doing? I haven’t even been here a full day and already I feel like I’d rather be back behind bars just so people stop treating me with kid gloves.” He thumbs out the door. “Even Scott seems to think I’m something to be avoided.”


Wyatt reaches the front door and is about to push it open, when he hears the voices from the other table. Turning his head, he sees Aerith start to struggle with the rougher bunch.

He grits his teeth with anger as she’s pulled onto one of the guy’s lap. It’s obvious from the look on her face that she didn’t want that to be happening, and the man was much too strong for her. Riffraff like that didn’t belong in here.

Spinning around, Wyatt stalks over to the table, a glare on his face. “Women are to be respected around here boys,” he growls. “Or did your mamas never teach you that?”

Reaching out, Wyatt grabs the one man’s wrist, bending it back in such away that he knew it would cause sharp pain. As Aerith is let go, he shoves her back out of the way, his grip remaining on the other man. “I think she told you to let her go.”


Cindy just can’t get over how perfect everything is. On her own feet again, she leans into Wes as she looks out on the back yard. “It’s all simply gorgeous,” she breathes. A little laugh of excitement escapes. “Does this mean we can start moving in?”

Let Go

*As Scott pats Katie's shoulder she turns her head to him.*

"Ok, I'll see ya later Scotty."

*Once Scott leaves Katie turns her attachen back to Jason. Searching his eyes Katie can see a glimps of confustion, but still there was that wall again she could see it now. Why Jason but it back up Katie dident know maybe it was the fact he was at work maybe not, but Katie could feel the hurt inside her ownself.*

"I know everything is probley crazy for you J. Its has to be hard I couldent even imagen how out of place I would feel in a situation like this. Its like if I was to go back to Texas to live, I wouldent know what to do cuz that isent were I belong anymore. But as the days pass J, thing here with come back to you, life will return to normal and everything will be ok if you let it."

*Katie hand finds Jason's on the table.*

"Just dont close yourself off to me, to you friends, to the world. We are all here to help, and it pains us when you wont. I know you have been through so much, thats why I want to be here to help you. I dont have to be here, I want to be here."

*Aerith smiles at Wyatt and a wave seeing as he geting ready to leave. Aerith makes her way over to the table with the rough group of guys.*

"Are you guys ready to order?"

*The guys laugh between themselfs before the bigger of the three answers.*

"I dont think so. You see it dosent have what we want on the menu. We want you!"

*The smile on Aerith's face fades alittle as she trys to hold her composure.*

"Well sorry cant help you with that one."

"Well, arnt you saposto try and make your customer happy and get us what we want?"

"Not when it comes to customers like you."

*As Aerith goes to turn around and walk away the larg man grabs her arm to stop her spinning her around and pulling her closer to the table. The smaller guy next to him chimes over his shoulder in a moking tone.*

"There is no point in staying no to Stan. He always get what he wants."

*A certin fermness, yet a look of shock and fear passes through Aerith's eyes as she trys to pull her arm away but Stan's grip was to strong.*

"Let go of me."

*The guys laugh as he pulls Aerith into his lap. The smell of liquer strong on his breath.*

*Wes returns the kiss the lingers for a long while and than hugs Cindy tight. Leaning his head aganst her.*

"You deserve this and so much more. I'm happy I get to be the one that strives twords making it happen for you. I love you Cindy."

*Cindy still in his arm he walks with her slowly up the steps and opens the door taking her inside to show her around to her new home and than to the back out the house where a sliding glass door is to the LARGE backyard.*

Perfect

Jason quirks an eyebrow as the strange vibe continues to bother him. Something was wrong... something wasn't right...Katie was really on edge.

He glances back to Scott, then back to Katie again. "Uh... no...he hasn't given me anything yet. Said to settle in for a few days. Guess I need it...I feel like a fish out of water around here."

Scott takes a bite of his food, thinking. "I guess it wouldn't be easy, huh...lot changed around here?"

"Some..." Jason takes a swig of his pop. "...People...things...it'll take me a while to get back in the swing of things." He gives Katie a sidelong glance. "At least I got someone to help me out."

Scott sees the glance, and decides he really doesn't want the rest of his food. "Well, you need something, give a holler." He stands up and throws away his leftovers. Exiting the breakroom, he gives Katie's shoulder a pat. "See you later."

Jason eyes the gesture warily. There was that feeling threatened again. What was going on? He was sure he was imagining things...he didn't understand what was going through his own mind anymore. He did feel like a fish out of water, and it had only been half a day.


Wyatt returns Aerith's smile as she brings him his lunch. "Thanks."
It doesn't take him too long to go through his pizza and is soon glancing at his watch, knowing it's time to get back to work. Rising, he tosses a nice tip on the table and prepares to leave.


Cindy is confused, but does as she's told, completely in the dark. As Wes helps her out of the truck, her confusion increases. But when she's told to open her eyes, her mouth drops open. Tears spring into her eyes. "Oh, Wes," she breathes.

For a moment she can't take her eyes off of the beautiful house. It was her dream come true. She'd waited so very very long, dreaming this dream, and now...it was a reality. "It's perfect..."

Turning her face to Wes, she wraps her arms around his neck and gives him a passionate kiss, then just hugs him tight. "I can't believe it's really real. You've done so much...so much I don't even deserve.... 'Thank you' just doesn't seem enough."

Cindy can't help but turn her head again to make sure the house wasn't her imagination. It was still there...as pretty as ever... even prettier than she'd imagined.

Close your eyes

*Misty shakes her had and laughs at Carson. She cant help but enjoy Carson roughness, and his spark. Misty wouldent want it any other way.*

"I guess tomarrow I'll have to be ready and waiting than for you."

*As Katie sits with the boys her tummy tightens as Jason keeps her out. Her salad dident seem so appraling anymore but she tryed to continue to eat it anyway. Katie trys to keep the conversation light between the to boys as her head starts to spin.*

"Reese have you doing anything exciting yet?"

*Katie keeps her eyes focused on her lunch trying to get herself to calm down.*

*Aerith lets out a giggle feeling her cheeks from some reson turn alittle red*

"Ya, I'm still here. I though I should get a job or my grandmother is going to drive me crazy."

*Smiling Aerith jots down what Wyatt wants.*

"ok thats easy enough to remember so next time you come in I can just get it for you. So dont go changing it up on me."

*Aerith smiles and turns to get Wyatt his drink and have Herb warm up 2 slices. Aerith brings the drink to Wyatt.

A rough looking crowd enters the dinner and sits in Aerith section. Loud laughing can be hurd from there table. Aerith smiles at Wyatt and goes over to the table to get there drink orders. Heading back to grab them she also grabs Wyatt pizza and brings it to him before heading back to the others with there drinks.*

"Enjoy Wyatt."

*Aerith throws him another smile.*

*Wes holds his hand out to Cindy and takes it leading her to the truck. After helping her in Wes leans in her side and gives her a kiss on the lips. Geting into the driverside Wes just sits for a long moment. Finally turning to Cindy.*

"You trust me hun? Close your eyes and keep them close tight till I tell you to open them again And dont worry its nothing bad. Everything is gonna be ok."

*Once Cindy closes her eyes Wes starts up the truck and heads out not being able to help a smile now cross his face.

Making turns here and there Wes drives for sometime till finally they reach there destanation. Shuting the truck off Wes opens his door.*

"Dont open your eyes yet hun ok."

*Wes gets out of the truck and shuts the door going over to Cindy's side opening her door and helping her with her seatbelt. Once she is out Wes scoops her up in his arms and walks alittle ways before stoping.*

"Ok Sweetheart you can open you eyes now."

*In front of them stood a while one floor 3 bedroom house with black shutters. There was a pourch on the front 2 big windows on eather side and 1 big window in the middle. The front yard looked tore up alittle bit still showing it wasent long ago the house was complete but there was grass seed layed down and baby trees and flowers lined the yard showing where they would be.*

"It was finished 4 days go. I was cleaning up, and wanted to saprise you. Now I can carry you into out new house like I should of after we got married."

Where?

As Misty’s fingers hit Carson’s ribs, he suddenly jumps, releasing his headlock and squirming to the side. “Hey, hey, now, that’s not fair!” He gives her shoulder a shove. “And don’t ask a guy what possesses him – you don’t want to know.”

He throws Misty a sidelong glance. “Well next time I swing on by if you’re out there in your own running shoes, maybe I won’t bang on the window.”


Jason turns from the vending machine, sandwich in hand. He looks to the table at Katie and Scott. Why it felt strange she was asking if he wanted to join them, he wasn’t sure.

His ears listened, waiting for the sounds of loud voices and clanking silverware, but it was quiet. He was suddenly a stranger here. There were new routines…things he’d been naturally left out of.

Jason shrugs and opts to stay. At least he’d have Katie for a little while, even if Scott was there. Scott... It hit Jason as just a little funny.

Grabbing the end chair, he sits down to join them, digging into his sandwich. Looking up once, he catches Scott’s eye and they stare at each other for a moment. Jason can feel himself start to bristle and he has no idea why. Why did he suddenly feel threatened? He’d never felt threatened by Scott before…ever. What was that look in Scott’s eye that wasn’t there before?

Jason breaks his gaze and glances to Katie, still not even realizing that his wall was firmly in place.

Scott looks down and picks at his tv dinner, trying to come up with something to talk about, but the latest auto magazine he’d gotten seemed less than interesting.


“Well, I’ll be.” Wyatt grins when he sees Aerith. “Decided to stick around for a while, eh?” He cocks his head, not able to help but think she looked pretty cute today as a waitress.

Still smiling, he shrugs. “Oh, I’m doing all right. And yes, if you’re going to be working here, you’ll learn I take a Pepsi every time, along with two slices of pepperoni and mushroom pizza.” He throws her a wink. “I like my routines.”


Cindy mumbles a little as Wes shakes her shoulder and she opens her eyes groggily. “Hmm?” Pulling herself up, she rubs the sleep from her eyes and yawns. “What, why…” She searches Wes’ face for a moment, realizing he’s serious.

Forcing herself to wake up, she gives a little nod, not asking any questions. She trusted him. “Give me a couple minutes…”

Within fifteen, she’s taken a quick shower and dressed, not bothering to do her hair or makeup. Finding Wes again, she gives him a confused look, now ready to ask. “Where are we going?”

Wake

*Katie smiles back at Scott giving a nod.*

"Things are so so, not feeling to grand today but I'm alive."

*Misty leaves Scott and heads to her desk to do her days work.*

*Misty cant help but laugh as she squerms to get out of the headlock.*

"Whatever possessed you to bang on my window every morning? If you wanted to me to run with in the morning you can just say so."

*Misty cant help but start laughing more and she continues to get out of the headlock.*

"I have to addmit the look on your face was pricless."

*Relaxing for a moment Misty moves her arms fast to Carons side and tickles him.*

~*~Lunch Time~*~

*Katie makes her way to the breakroom as her tummy churns. Steping into the breakroom and seeing Jason and Scott sent cold chills down her spin but is passed quickly.*

"Hey guys. Its a party in here."

*Going to the fridge Katie grabs her salad and sits down at the table turning to Jason and than smiling at Scott.*

"J, you want to join Scott and myself for lunch?"

*Aerith looks up from cuting a pie and see Wyatt sit in her section. A smile cross her face as she heads over to him.*

"You know I really do think I have myself a stalker. How are you today Wyatt? and can I get you something to drink?"

*Aerith was starting to grow fond of seeing Wyatt around all over the place. He was the first nice person she had met and he seemed like a pritty good guy not to mention a cute on at that.*

*Geting out of the shower after coming in from the shop Wes throws on a new pare of jeans and a t-shit. Walking quietly back into the bedroom Wes watches Cindy sleep for a long moment. She hadent been feeling to well the last few days and sleep is what she needed. Though Wes hated waking her up he new this time he must. Going over to her side of the bed he sits on the edge and gives her a soft kiss on the forhead and than shakes her gently.*

"Cindy, Hun...its time to get up. I need to take you somewhere. Its important."

Lunch

Scott turns and looks up from his computer, automatically giving Katie a smile. “Hey. Wasn’t sure if you were gonna be in today or not. How’s things?”


Laura comes down from the porch, grinning at Nate. “I think I can handle this kind of chariot,” she quips. “Thanks.”

Sliding into the passenger seat and buckling in, she turns her head and suddenly locks eyes with Nate. For a really strange moment, there’s a pause and heat creeps into her face. Finally she turns her attention to the road. “One of these days I really need to get a new car…”


A look of total shock crosses Carson’s face as Misty steps from around the corner and grabs him. He almost trips as he’s brought to a sudden halt and pulled around, a kiss landing on his lips. “What the…” He’s cut off by Misty’s passionate exchange, and suddenly finds himself returning the kiss, though he’s still bewildered for a moment .

When Misty withdraws, Carson gives her a smirk. “Good morning to you too, you sneaky sheila, you.” He reaches out to put her in a headlock from the side and starts to drag her down the sidewalk. “You about gave me a heart attack woman! Whatever possessed you?!”


Jason glances at his watch as his stomach growls. It was past noon….he wasn’t used to having to remember meals on his own. He suddenly realizes that he hadn’t even brought anything with him. Looked like it would be a sandwich from the machine today.

He gets up from his desk and wanders out of his office for the first time that morning, heading to the break room. Arriving, he sees Scott warming up his own lunch.

Scott turns and quirks an eyebrow, remaining cordial. “Hey, Jase.”

“Scott.” Jason gives him a short nod, and turns to the vending machine. “How’s it going?”

“Going alright…” Scott wants to say more…but for some reason, small talk doesn’t want to come, so he turns back to the microwave.


Wyatt parks his jeep outside Mom and Pop’s and wanders inside as his routine. Waving to Mabel he heads to his normal table, relaxing for his lunch break. Sometimes just getting away from the office for a little while helped clear his head…not to mention, his regular two slices of pizza sounded awfully good today.

Saprise

*Katie enters TJY and heads for the breakroom. She had stoped off at BK this morning before work and picked up a chilli salad for lunch. Puting it into the fridge she grabs a MD from the pop mashean, and heads back out. Katie felt ok today. This morning was good but as the hours passed Katie could feel the closed off emotions that plunged her into darkness returning. And you could see it in her eyes it was taking its toll even though she tryed to hide it. Taking the long way Katie pass Scott's desk and stop leaning on the wall.*

"Morning Scotty."

*Nate cant help but chuckle as he heads out the door.*

"Sure thing Hun. I'm on my way now."

* After a few moments Nate pulls up in front of Laura's place he see her siting on the pourch. Opening the passanger side roll Nate yells to her.*

"My lady you chareot awaits."

*Nate grins.*

*Misty leans aganst the brick wall a few blocks away. The sound of pounding feet drew closer and Misty new it was Carson. For the last few days Misty had been woken up at the same time every morning by Carson. This time she was the one saprising him. She wouldent be hom when get banged on the window. As the steps get closer Misty turns the courner grabing Carson by the arm and swinging him around planting her lips fermly on his and than drawing away. A grin playing on her face.*

"Good Morning."

*Aerith wakes with a startle as her alarm goes off. Rubbing her eys she looks at te clock it was 6am. Groaning she rolls out of bed to get ready for her first day of work.

Pulling on a black pair of dress pants and a white shirt Aerith slips on her black sneakers and heads back into the batroom to finish up her makeup and put some hair clips in. Finally satidsied she grabs her pirse and slips out f the house undetectied so her grandmother would think she was sleeping still or just shopping. She wasent to fond of Aerith wanting to work. She understand why a girl who had some much money given to her would want to bother working. But Aerith had her resons. She wanted to see like she had acomplished something and was making her own money not having it handed to her.

Finally pulling into the small parking lot Aerith is greeted by Mable and Herb with a wave. Aerith waves back smiling as she gets out of her car."

Mable: "Morning."

Herb: "Good Morning Aerith."

Aerith: "Morning."

*Heading inside Mable shows Aerith around and the normal opening process and how to get reayd for the day. Mable gives Aerith a few off jobs to do before the restront opened. In no time it was 8 and te dinner was open. Aerith seemed to cated on fast only making mistake a few times. About an hour later the busness picks up and Mable is happy yo have extra hands to help.*

Morning

Jason’s eyes open and he stares into the dimness of Con’s living room. Despite being on a couch, it was more comfortable than the bed he’d been used to, and he’d slept like a rock the night through.

Glancing at the digital clock by the tv, Jason rolls his eyes. It was only five-thirty. He could sleep a whole ‘nother hour. But his body was too used to getting up at this time. It wasn’t worth fighting.

Rising, Jason gets in the shower before Con. It takes him long enough though, to sort through his clothes and find his wallet and shoes he wants that by the time he’s ready to go, so is Con.

“Alright, I can swing you by TJY. I’ll stay a few minutes, then head to the lumberyard,” Con comments as they leave. “Tonight you can give me a buzz, or I’m sure anyone else can give you a ride back.”

Jason just nods, remaining fairly quiet. “Thanks.”

The ride to TJY is less than quiet as Con begins to fill Jason in on a few things that have been happening with the case, people back at the ranch in Texas, and more. By the time the parking lot comes into view, Jason is beginning to realize just how out of the loop he really is. He was back…and it felt like getting thrown into an icy cold lake after being in the sun for hours.

The reception is a warm one, and everyone Jason greets welcomes him heartily, excited that he is back. Though grateful, the attention is a little much, and it isn’t long before he’s retreated to his own office, shutting the door and sinking down into his chair. He wasn’t even sure what he was supposed to be doing…but he should find something…

Starting to ignore himself, he dives into sifting through things in his desk, not even realizing that since rising that morning, his emotions have been void. He had shut down again.


“How is he?”

Con shrugs a little as he stands in Reese’s office. “Like a hand grenade with the pin pulled.”

Reese raises an eyebrow. “Meaninig…?”

“I don’t know….” Con frowns. “I think he’ll be alright. He’s just overwhelmed...There’s just something going on in his head and I’m not sure what it is. Maybe he just needs time to adjust.”

“Well, I’m not going to be throwing work at him, if that’s what you’re implying. I’m surprised he opted to come in today at all.”


Scott wanders into work just a little later than normal, heading straight to his desk. Today would be interesting…he’d thought a lot the night before…too much.. but he shouldn’t be worrying. Everything would work out just fine.


Laura grimaces as she waits for Nate to answer his phone. She should have gone out before Katie left, but hadn’t thought about it. She was all ready to go to work, but she lacked one thing. “Hey, Nate, it’s me..um…my car won’t start, and Katie already left…you don’t think you could pick me up on your way into work, do you?”


“Hey, you lazy bum! Day light’s wasting!” Carson bangs on Misty’s window, jogging back to the sidewalk, a mischievous grin pasted on his face.

Hold Him

*Katie smiles as she listens to Scott talk for a long while. Giving a laugh at the mental immage of Nate and the mouse traps. As Scott brings the call to an end Katie cant help but feel a bit disapointed.*

"Ok..well give Domino a hug for me and I will see you tomarrow? Lunch room same time same place."

*Katie gives a giggle and hangs up the phone. Leaning her head agains the railing Katie closes her eyes for a moment. A strange feeling came over her, though not being able to discribe it. Siting for a few more moment Katie feels a drop of rain and stands taking in a long breath than heads back inside. Going into the kitchen Katie see Jason and Laura and smiles. Coming along side Jason Katie smiles and nudging him alittle than turns to Laura.*

"Whatever you are making smells wonderful Laura."

*Katie enjoys the time with Jason and with Laura eating dinner, chating, and even laughing here and there. When Con comes Katie is sad to see Jason go. As they get to the door Katie stops Jason and give him a strong embrace.*

"I'll see you tomarrow at work. And if you dont come in call me so I can come and see you. I'll also drive you over to Mike's sometime to get you bike."

*Katie throws a wave to Con and Jason pull out of the driveway. After they leave Katie helps Laura clean up. Katie looks up and smiles at Laura.*

"I'm very happy J is home. I've missed him. And it felt good to hold him again."

Glad?

Scott had been coworkers with Jason since he'd worked at TJY...he'd call Jason his friend. He was so glad that Jason was out of prison and back home where he belonged now - he hadn't deserved to be behind bars in the first place, and TJY needed him back on their team. Jason had been missed, and Scott had felt for him.

...But...hearing the tone of Katie's voice now, Scott couldn't help but give a little less than all his concentration to feeling positive about this change in events. He lets it slide though...for Katie.

"Oh, ha, me? Eh, you know - good as always. Sliced my finger open on the can opener - that's about as exciting as things got today, other than the news of Jason. And...fun?" He thinks as he turns his car down his street. "Not unless you count Nate putting mouse traps in every corner of the building and hearing people set them off on accident." He laughs a little.

As his house comes into view, he brings the call to an end. "Well, I'm home now and Domino will be waiting. I guess I'll see you around. Have a good night."


Smelling Laura's cooking, Jason can't help but give in and eat some spaghetti. Interacting with Laura and Katie seems more difficult than he thought for some reason. He hates his own awkwardness, but finds little that will help.

As the evening wears on, Jason becomes more weary, and Laura finally calls Con to come pick him up. A warm greeting of friends is exchanged when Con arrives, and after a brief time together, Con and Jason leave.

Laura watches the car disappear down the street, then shuts the door, giving a little sight. "Well, Katie... are you glad you man is home?"

...

*Katie leans back aganst the railing bring her leg up in front of her leting out a small sigh.*

"He's doing the best he can be at the moment. He's stuned, and nervouse this is a dream he is gonna wake from. He's sleeping at the moment. He needed it. He's just so lost, and messed up Scotty. Its so hard seeing him like this. I'm just hoping he will be ok in the end."

*After Katie chats with Scott alittle more about Jason she changes the subject back.*

"How are you today Scott? And how did work go? Anything fun and exciting?"

Understand

Jason moves a little bit as Katie puts the blanket over him, and for several minutes he drifts back to sleep, though not as heavily. Finally awake enough to hear noise in the kitchen, he yawns and sits back up again, opening his eyes wide and blinking, trying to get his bearings. He was at Laura's...he'd been with Katie... it was the strangest feeling not to wake up in his cell.

Putting the blanket aside, he gets up and ambles to the kitchen where Laura's back is turned. "Hey, stranger."

Laura whirls around in surprise, a smile immediately spreading. "Oh, Jason." Setting down the bowl of salad, she goes to give him a big hug.

Jason returns the embrace warmly. "Long time no see."

"Too long." Laura withdraws, a tear behind her eye. "It's so good to see you, Jase... Are you doing alright?"

Jason shrugs, hooking his hands in his pockets. "I'm...a little dazed at the moment, I guess." He forces a dry chuckle. "Still keep thinking I'm gonna wake up and be back behind bars, but...pretty soon here I might figure out this is reality."

"Well I, for one, am glad that it is." Laura throws him a wink. "We've all missed you something awful."


Scott grabs his phone and flips it open as he drives back home from work. "Oh, hey, Katie... Naw, that's okay...I understand." He pauses as he stops for a red light. "I, um...well Reese told everyone that Jason got back, and we're all dying to see him. How's um..." He pauses again, though this time it isn't because of his driving. "How's he doing?"

The Call

*Katie drifts in and out of sleep as she lays with Jason on the coutch. He had been tired and Katie just felt so comfortable she drifted off as well. Hearing Laura come home Katie knows she wont bother them so she herself dosent movie. Falling back asleep Katie is only woken up again by the phone. Katie cant only make out bits and peaces of what Laura is saying as she lays in the dark. Being able to make out Scott's voice Katie rolls her eyes at herself. She had forgoten to call Scott.

Slowly Katie lifts Jason up and than lays him back down placing a blanket over him and giving a small kiss to his forhead. Going into the kitchen Katie streaches.*

"Mmmm...should I say morning or good night?"

*Katie lets out a small chuckle. and stands to head back out of the kitchen.*

"I'll be right back if Jason asks Laura."

*Katie steps out onto the front pourch and sits down on the steps taking in the warm air that had the smell of more rain was to come. Taknig out her phone Katie dials Scott's number. She had forgoten to call him and felt horrable.*

"Hey Scotty. Sorry I forgot to call you. I guess everything just got alittle crazy today."

Asleep

Jason's eyes drift shut again as he gives Katie's hand a squeeze. "One day at a time, huh...that's going to take us a while..."

He shakes his head. "I'm starving, but I don't want anything to eat. I'm thirsty, but I don't want anything to drink. All I want...is to be here...with you."

Jason's breathing grows quiet as before he can stop it, his exhaustion overtakes him, laying him down in a more peaceful rest than he has had in a very long time...


"Goodnight, Nate." Laura gives him a little wave before she makes her way out of TJY. Though not wanting to intrude, she had decided it best to go home tonight instead of out, to make sure everything was alright, and if Katie or Jason needed anything. She hadn't heard from Katie all day and hoped that no news was good news.

Arriving home, Laura notes that it's about suppertime as the sun is beginning to set. Pulling up to the drive, she notes that Katie's car is still there - apparently she and Jason hadn't gone anywhere.

Stepping up to the door, she enters slowly - the house is dim and quiet. Glancing into the living room, she sees two still figures on the couch, and a smile creases her lips. She makes a point of being quiet as she heads into the kitchen, turning on the light. Setting down her purse, she gives Henry a greeting and searches for something to cook for supper. Deciding on spaghetti, she opts to make a little extra in case Katie or Jason wanted anything.


Scott looks up from his desk before glancing at the clock. He'd planned on going home earlier than this, but had stayed, hoping to see Katie or Jason. But neither had come. He couldn't help being a little worried...as unstable as Katie had been lately, he hoped everything had been okay...though he was a bit wary about Katie's relationship with Jason, he still hoped that it had been a good reunion and not a bad one.

Seeing the floor almost empty for the night, and noting Laura wasn't there either, Scott decides to pick up the phone.


Laura almost drops the pan of sauce as the phone rings. "Oh, shoot," she mutters. Setting the pan back down, she goes for the cordless phone. "Hello? Oh, hi, Scott. Hmm? Yeah, he's here. ...I don't know, looks like he fell asleep. Poor guy is probably exhausted. I haven't been able to talk to him yet - all I know is what I heard from Reese earlier about how they got him out." Laura cradles the phone between her chin and shoulder. "Katie? She never left that I know of, no... Uh-uh, looks like she's asleep too." Laura smiles. "I have to say, it's nice seeing those two together again. ...Hmm? Alright. Yeah, no problem. Sure. See you tomorrow. Bye."

A year

*Katie gives Jason's hand a soft squeeze. Her other hand laying on the top of his mind. Absentmindly running it up and down his arm.*

"Its been almos a year that you have been gone J and as for catching up, we take one day at a time."

*Thinking for a moment Katie offers a smile.*

"Would you like anything to eat or drink?"

Catch up

Katie’s arms around Jason act as the shelter intended as he tries to claw his way up through everything he’s feeling.

Led to the couch, he numbly follows, letting Katie hold him. Her hand running through his hair is like a warm breeze to make the shadows drift away. Her soothing voice is like a healing balm to his soul.

Jason grows quiet, just sitting with Katie in silence for a long while. Finally he sits straighter, leaning his head back with his eyes closed. The tears had stopped, the torment had eased. He felt completely drained of all energy.

“It all happened so fast…” His voice is hoarse and quiet. “I didn’t even know I was going to get out.” He swallows hard, his mouth feeling like he’d been sucking on cotton. “Reese hasn’t told me everything yet…I don’t know how it happened. He said he’d explain later.”

Jason pauses again, opening his eyes to stare ahead at nothingness. His hand moves over to hold Katie’s, his thumb running over her own. “How long has it been, Hero…it feels like an eternity. Time just…slipped away. I feel like I’m in a dream…like none of this is even real.”

Thinking again, his mind remembers all the things he hadn’t told Katie…all the things he hadn’t shared. The things he’d done…the situations he’d been in…the reputation he’d built.

“Katie, I don’t know how to catch up…”


“I’ve got to call Sheriff Brown,” Reese nods to Susanne as he walks across the main floor. “Let him know we got him out.”

“I’m just so glad he’s home,” Susanne breathes. “Have you let everyone else know yet?”

“I’m working on it.”

“Where is he now?”

“Dropped him off at Katie’s. I don’t know if he’ll be in or not…”


Scott’s typing ceases as he hears the news. His eyes remain glued to his computer screen, though his mind can’t help but wander.

inside

*As Katie holds Jason's hands her eyes dont move from his. Slowly at first Katie cant start to feel Jason open up. Only to grow faster and faster till finally one after another everything was thrown at her. Jason's love, hate, lonlyness, darkness Jason's pain. Katie could feel every bit of it and causes her own hands to shake. How scaired Jason was, and how lonly. Though Katie was filled with great pain she could also feel the healing could start now. Tears make there way to the surface of Katie's own eyes, and she never wavers her sight from Jason. As Jason pulls Katie in her arms wrap around him, offering commfort, shelter. Slowly Katie walks with Jason into the living room to sit down on the coutch still holding Jason close.

And Like a vicegrap holding a peace of wood, Jason's words wrap around Katies heart screaming for her to stay. Still holding Jason Katie rubs his back and runs a hand softly though his hair as she softly hums a little soon.*

"I wont Jason, I wont. You can always come to me. Oh how good it is to feel your wormth Jason and though you have been through so much you have people who still love you. Things are gonna be ok."

*She wispers to him in reply to his statment. As they sit, Katie's mind wonders remindering her how much she had missed Jason, and how good it was to feel him, and hold him in her arms. Its was something Katie had longed for and missed, and now that craving was taken care of for now.*

Please...

Katie’s tears tear at Jason’s heart like nothing else. Suddenly his barrier is tested to the limit. Her quivering voice begging him…pleading with him to break those chains was stronger than anything she’d used before.

Jason stands distanced from Katie. The war that had started months ago was now at its most gruesome battle ever. His heart screamed at him to let go. To live. To love. To give back what he had stolen from the one who was most precious in his life.

The love was hidden, locked away….his eyes gave her nothing, nothing but that dark abyss, void of his emotions.

But her eyes…those eyes that pierced his own…they held the key to the chains. They held the key to breaking down the barrier, no matter how strong it had grown.

“I can’t,” he whispers… he reaches out a hand to cradle her tear-streaked face. “There is so much…” He closes his eyes for a moment, dropping his hand. “So much I haven’t said…”

He wants to look away. He wants to back away. Every fiber in his being wants to drop it all and run from the pain that was so deep.

But those eyes…Katie’s eyes…they pull at him… tug at him…beg him not to. They pain him more than anything else as they drive his own hurt towards the surface. Like a magnet pulling nails through his heart.

“Aw, Katie.” Jason grits his teeth and turns to lean on the open doorframe, his eyes clenched shut, trying to block her. He could…he knew he could…he was capable…he had the strength. He hadn’t wanted this to happen. Not now…not seeing her for the first time again. Why was she doing this to him? He could stop it…he had the power…

But what was he willing to lose, in order to preserve his pride?

Jason’s gut twists with his own agony. He was free from prison, but his heart had remained behind bars. He was being offered a second freedom and was turning it down.

He was being stupid.

Spinning back around, Jason locks a gaze with Katie, anger for the situation flashing in his eyes. He steps toward her, shutting the door behind him to block out the world.

His eyes remain harsh as he reaches out and takes Katie’s hands. His grip tightens around her fingers as his pulse pounds in his head. His breathing grows shallow, a bead of sweat trickles down the back of his neck. He glares into the eyes that begged him to release himself.

Closing his own for just a moment, he opens them again…and they show life.

Pain…deep pain courses through Jason’s very being as he drags it from the depths. His hands start to shake as they grip Katie’s. He relives the moments that brought the most hurt. He pulls from the corners the anger he’d built up. He remembers the people he has hurt…the fists he has thrown.

His eyes remained locked on Katie’s as the emotions begin to pool.

Agony shoots through his veins…loneliness surges through his heart…sorrow envelopes his gaze. One after the other, Jason dredges up everything that he had worked so hard to bury, hurling them in Katie’s direction.

And finally, the tears. Springing into his eyes, they sting more than the emotional pain itself.

Unable to stand it any more, Jason chokes on his own breath that he’d been holding. He lets go of Katie’s hands and reaches out to pull her close to him, wrapping his arms around her in a tight embrace, pressing her head to his chest. “I’m sorry…” His voice is wrought with the emotional trauma he has just gone through. His body weak, his mind exhausted. “Please don’t let me go.”

Begging

*As Katie feels Jason's lips on her she kiss him back. Losing all though of anything other than who was standing in front of her. As Jason pulls Katie away she looks up into his eyes searching, looking for her Jason. The eyes that looks back at Katie showed her he was there, but he was drownding, and she could do nothing as long as his feelings were locked away. This happy moment turned to something alse all to fast. New tears show themself in Katie eyes.*

"Jason...please hold me, let me know your really here and I am not dreaming. Please Jason let me feel you, let me heal you. I've missed you so much."

*Katie's voice sounded like it was almost begging Jason, and thats how she felt. Why, why was she beging her own boyfriend for love, affection. She eyes did not show what his actions did. No...this couldent be happing, this couldent be true. Jason, where are you.?*

Battle

Feeling love can be uncontrolled. It seeps into the heart, sometimes unnoticed until it is suddenly in full bloom. But even such a strong emotion as love needs to have the willingness to be shared. And sharing love exposes the heart. So by loving, and showing love, that person opens up themselves to another, laying bare their soul for both the good and the bad. Choosing not to lay bare the soul keeps the love covered where it festers, eating away at he heart as it longs to be released.


“Oh, Katie.” Jason immediately returns the embrace, bringing Katie close in a strong hug. As he holds her, the longing his arms have felt is relieved. The ach to feel her touch again disperses. From somewhere deep down, tears want to come, but they are blocked.

Holding Katie for a long moment, Jason finally draws back just a little, lifting her face to see her eyes. Cocking his head and leaning down, he presses his lips to hers, feeling the warmth he’s been waiting for, for so long. Oh, how he has missed her.

…But how can the heart of one who has locked himself away feel what he longs to feel?

Withdrawing, Jason stands back, holding Katie at arm’s length, just studying her eyes. A sudden twist to his gut comes as a warning of something he cannot see. There was a confusion…a disturbance he didn’t recognize.

And yet…he did know. For he had learned well how to bury his feelings…his emotions. The pain he had suffered had been locked away tightly, without the intention of releasing it or sharing it. He could not bear to see that pain in Katie’s eyes…he could not bear the pain inside himself to relive it again.

But just as chlorine destroys good and bad germs, so too did Jason’s barrier seize the good along with the bad. So slowly…so quietly it had happened…it had gone unrecognized…unheeded. For thinking one could separate one emotion from the next was but folly, waiting to be proven.

Jason swallows hard and slowly releases Katie. As he looks into her eyes, he relays nothing…his actions of his embrace…his passionate exchange spoke of a true longing. Yet as impossible as it seemed, at the same time, he could not have been more numb. His heart had been locked…and the key was lost.

Was it by choice? Was it the fault of him protecting his own heart? Was it simply the aftermath of tragic circumstances? The source didn’t seem to matter. For now there was a new choice. The barrier could be broken if the host wished it to be. But releasing the love meant releasing the pain. One could not be exposed without the other. And the pain was too great.

Jason now had over half a year’s worth of experiences that he had not spoken of. Over a half a year of hardness that had set in. Over half a year of becoming someone who would firs throw a punch than speak a word. Over half a year struggling to remain who he was, but giving in to the change.

Love was suddenly a lost emotion, somewhere beneath the tumult of hurt. For without the willingness to share all of his heart, the portion that mattered the most remained hidden from view.

…The love was indeed felt inside the heart that was incased in stone, but it was no longer visible….no longer evident to the eyes of others…no longer shared.

His arms were warm, but his eyes were cold.