All night

Hearing his daughter's voice, Jay lights up despite the late hour. Though the conversation is short, it's cherished, and he promises to be in touch soon.

Eyes are heavy, and despite the longing to stay up and continue enjoying each other's company, sleep will have no other way. Tiredness takes over whether they want it to or not.

As the gang begins to disperse, sweet goodnights are exchanged with hugs and kisses. No one wants to think about tomorrow, but it's still heavy on all their minds.

Most of the people gone, it leaves only a few left around the fire. Jason finally stands up, ready to follow Clint to one of the bunks, opting to stay the night here. Cindy had already promised she would return in the morning to say goodbye.
Stretching, Jason ambles over to where Scott and Katie were still sitting. "Goodnight, guys."

Scott looks up at him warily for a moment, but gives in. "Night, Jason. You flying back with us in the morning."

Jason nods. "If there's room."

"Plenty."

"Alright." Jason looks at Katie for a moment, giving her a nod and he manages a smile for her. "Night, Katie."

As Jason leaves, Scott squeezes Katie's hand. "I think it's time we all got some rest, don't you?" Slowly, he manages to stand up, trying to hide how stiff he was. Drawing Katie close, he gives her a gentle kiss, his hand brushing back her hair. "See you in the morning." Sighing, he slowly leaves the fire site, ambling across the yard toward the path that led to the cabins.

Eventually, all is quiet. No noise exists except for the chirp of the crickets, the rustling of the wind, and an occasional nicker from a horse in the barn. It was peaceful. It was a blessing of rest before the storm.


Wyatt opens one eye groggily, the tv still on in the living room. Aerith was beside him, using his shoulder as a pillow, and his dad was sound asleep in the easy chair. It was late. After a fun supper of fish and french fries, they'd watched a couple movies, but their adventure earlier in the day had tuckered them out, and they'd eventually drifted to sleep.

To comfortable to move or to care about going to bed, Wyatt shifts his weight a little bit to stretch his feet to the coffee table, and settles back in, resting his hand over Aerith's shoulders.


"Hey..." Carson brushes Misty's cheek gently as she lies next to him on the couch. The quiet television had put them both to sleep after a quiet day of walking and just being together. Plenty things could have been done, plenty of places could have been seen, but neither had felt like doing much, and Carson had been careful not to let Misty over do it. Now it was after midnight. "Misty," he whispers. "You want me to take you home now?"


Three-forty-five a.m.. Classical music fills the mess hall, several lights illuminating the room. They hadn’t been shut off once, and the music had been playing for hours.

A two-liter bottle of mountain dew sits on one of the tables, almost empty, along with a small package of beef jerky that’s half gone.

Scott sits cross-legged behind a stand with a television and computer, working with wires, and bobbing his head to the upbeat sound of the orchestra. Standing, he patters in his bare feet over to his bag and unravels some new cords. He takes another swig of pop and grabs a bite of jerky to chew before returning to his work. Cringing just a bit, he eases back down to the unforgiving floor. Furrowing his brow at what he was working with, his glasses slide from his forehead back down to his nose.

Sugar, caffeine and adrenaline were all that were keeping him going at this point, and he was about ready to make a pot of coffee on top of what he’d already had to keep himself awake. After a hard physical day like the day before, and then staying up all night to get this work done, it was doing a number on him, but he had to get it done. In just a few hours, the TJY group would be going back to Nevada, and he needed to finish this job. The sun hadn’t even dared to rise yet, but Scott worked alone, concentrating in the solitary quietness.

The Call

*Wes wraps her arm around his wife alittle bit tighter. His emotions showing as he kiss her forhead.

Jamie cant help but laugh at the display Con and Jeff put on together. Laughter rings out*

"Con your gonna kill the poor guy."

*Laughing more as they continue Jamie just shakes her head.

Siting down next to Scott Katie gives alittle smile.*

"Sorry I dident stick around for dinner, I just...I dont know. Sorry."

*Katie leans into Scott as Jason sings the words hiting her heart, and everyone around her. As Jason stops singing Katie sits up and gives a small clap. The words were meaning ful. Katie eyes light up for a moment as she remembers she wanted to do something earlyer but forgot. Leaning over to Scott Katie lets him know she will be right back. Katie makes her away from the bonfire disapreaing into the dark. Once out of earshot of the others Katie pulls out her number and waits.*

"HI Dad! I know its late sorry. I just wanted to call and tell you I loved you and sorry I havent called sooner...there is just a court hearing tomarrow and I just wanted to make sure you new. ok Dad. I'll talk to you again soon."

*Katie makes her way back to the group siting down next t Scott again and listing to the rest of bullfrog.*

The Night drages on as everyone had a blast. BJ lay asleep in Rosetta's lap and Maggie was almost asleep on Nate. Soon the fire starts to go out.

Leaning over Rosetta gives Mick a kiss telling him goodnight as she gently lifts BJ and heads inside.

Wes and Cindy decied to call it a night as well, Nate and Maggie following along again after saying good night to Laura.

The rest of the gang slowly starts to disperse as well going there own sepret ways for the night. Know tomarrow had to come sooner or later.*

More songs, more feelings

Jason hates it that Katie takes the blame, but he's too tired to argue. He's just tired of fighting altogether. Where once anger had burned so bright, now was just a dull ache that resisted the conflicts around him.

Lifting an eyebrow, he takes another bite of his apple and studies the exposed core for a moment or two. He really didn't want to go to the bonfire. But if he didn't, Katie would just feel worse, and she probably wouldn't let him get away with not going anyway. He wasn't sure how all this figured into the fact that Scott was out there, but along with being tired of fighting, he was tired of trying so hard to figure things out. It was slowly turning into apathy.

"Yeah, I'm coming." He spins the apple around to start in on the other side, finally ending up with just the core. Twirling it by the stem, he stands up and stretches tall. Gesturing to the back door, he nods. "Ladies first."


As the song is sung around the fire, eyes wander to the distance, or to the ones they love, ears listening...hearts receiving. The words were so true...they struck each and everyone here.
Tears come to Cindy's eyes and she moves in close to Wes as if afraid she will lose him if she lets him walk away too far from her.
Mick looks up to Rosetta as she sings, and he locks eyes with her for a moment, returning the same emotions. The same thoughts. Though he hadn't spoken too much of tomorrow, he was worried, and struggling to hand it over to God like everyone else was struggling as well.
Luke gives Angel's hand a squeeze, turning to kiss her head lightly as she rests against him. Soon....soon it would be over...it had to be.

As the melody slowly fades away, it's so quiet....but gradually the gaiety returns, providing the upswing of moods once again. It's a night to have fun and a night to reflect. Like a rollercoaster, the atmosphere would rise and dive as the emotions flowed.

A short break in singing provides ample opportunity to get up and move around if anyone wanted, the chatter and banter continuing. Several people get up to get treats of cookies and lemonade, chatter starting up again. Jeff grabs two cookies and stuffs half a one in his mouth. As he turns back to the fire, he sees that Con has left Jamie for a moment to sit on the log by herself, and he grins mischievously. Stealing Con's place, he elbows Jamie. "Hey, good lookin'. You better teach your man not to leave you out in the open like this. Guys like me are liable to come pick on you."

"Oh, really?"

Jeff looks up, suddenly realizing that Con had been right behind him. He gives the taller man a cheesy grin. "That's right."

"Well you better teach yourself not to pick on good lookin' girls like this. Guys like me are liable to take offense."

"Aw, now, you wouldn't take offense at me, would you? Con, ol' buddy, ol pal?"

Con crosses his arms in mock defiance, and steps forward. Turning around, he doesn't give Jeff a chance to move before sitting down right on top of him.

"Oh, help!" Jeff cries, slapping Con's shoulder.

Con doesn't move, but acts as though everything is normal. He glances to his side at Jamie. "Did you hear something."

"You weigh a ton, you big tank!"

Con taps his good ear. "I could have sworn I heard some guy calling for help."

Jeff's squirming finally results in him losing is balance off the back of the log. It's enough movement for Con to lose his balance as well, and before they can stop it, both have rolled off backward in a heap.

"Aw man!" Jeff groans as Con lands on top of him. "I give, I give!"

Con lies still, sprawled across Jeff and knowing that he was squishing the poor guy. "What? I haven't even started yet!"

"I don't care! I can't even breathe!"

"Oh...why didn't you say so?" Con crawls back up over the log, ignoring Jeff who's struggling to stand, and gets his seat back next to Jamie.

Jeff finally stands up and staggers just a little bit, stepping back over the log to figure out where he'd been sitting earlier. Con nonchalantly sticks out his foot right in his path. Not seeing it, Jeff's brought down again, landing in the dirt.

Con's eyes widen. "You okay there, Jeffrey? Need help?"

Jeff rolls over, his eyes narrowing at Con. "No, I don't need any help, thank you very much."


Jason ambles behind Katie to the fire, hearing the chatter and laughing. For a moment he was taken back to when he'd been here before. It felt like a lifetime ago.

Nearing the group, Jason spots Scott over to one side, and he glances to Katie. Giving her a nod and a little smile, he lets her know that he'll stick around, but that he's heading to sit near Clint and Ty. Separating himself from her, Jason makes his way to the other side of the fire.

Scott looks up a smile creasing his lips as he sees Katie. A part of him is glad to see Jason too. Despite their difference, Scott didn't like seeing Jason so down, and was glad that he'd come...he knew that Katie had probably convinced him of such.
Scooting over a little on the ground beside the log, Scott makes a spot for Katie to sit.


"Hey, it's Jason!" Clint waves him over. "Wondered where you were. You've been missing all the fun!"

Jason is barely seated, when Sparky spots him too. "Oooh, now here's a singer for us. How about gracing us with a song, Jason."

Jason raises his eyebrows. He'd expected just to come, sit, and hardly be noticed. "Uh...I don't think so, Sparky."

"Come on. I heard you're the lead singer in a band. You can't tell me you're not qualified." Sparky even holds out his guitar.

Jason really hadn't planned on this. His eyes rove to his mother who gives him a slight nod, then to Katie, then back to Sparky. He could feel the eyes of others on him as well as they awaited his response. Knowing it would be worse off if he refused, he finally accepts. "Alright..." He reaches over to take Sparky's guitar and sits up straighter, plucking at a few strings to get the feel of the instrument. "What do you want?"

"Whatever you want," Sparky prompts. "We've run the scale tonight, so it's all yours."

Jason rolls his eyes. That was a lot of help. The chatter continues around him, and he's glad he's not quite the center of attention. It felt weird singing apart from JetStream. Looking around the others at the fire though, new words begin to drift into his mind, a tune following. Despite his own depression, he knew how the others were feeling, and could slip into this role if he really wanted to.

Finally he starts to strum the guitar strings, finding a new melody, eventually starting to sing.

Heavy hearts,
Burdened minds.
We sit in silence,
Surrounded…
By family and friends.
What’s better than…
Family and friends.

The future doesn’t look so bright,
Unknowns haunt our dreams.
We hold each other’s hands tonight,
Just waiting out the time.

Jason's voice has grown stronger since he was here last, and as he sings, it draws people's attention, captivating them. The sweet notes are sang so naturally and so smoothly, one would think he'd practiced this song for hours ahead of time.

Heavy hearts,
Burdened minds.
We sit in silence,
Surrounded…
By family and friends.
What’s better than…
Family and friends.

We gather all together now,
Time pressing on our hearts.
The distance can be all but shown,
Not knowing, we hold our breath.

Jason's eyes are closed as he continues to sing and play, not seeing that the others are looking at him, entranced by the song. Cindy watches her son with pride. He'd never let her watch him sing before, and this was more than a treat for her.

Heavy hearts,
Burdened minds.
We sit in silence,
Surrounded…
By family and friends.
What’s better than…
Family and friends.

Mmm…family and friends…
Yeah hearts are lifted…
Family and friends…
Family and friends.

As it dies away, the notes drift into the night, lifted up high like the smoke rising from the fire, dispersing to scatter beyond reach.

Opening his eyes, Jason realizes that everyone has grown quiet, and color comes to his face. For a moment, he'd been lost in another world, alone with his thoughts. He'd taken on the role of performer once again, even without a stage.

Before anyone can respond though, he clears his throat, wanting to get the chatter and laughter back. "Alright, Clint, you're helping me out with this next one," he instructs.

Clint's eyes widen. "I can't sing!"

"It's just one word," Jason insists. He starts to play an upbeat tune, starting to grin a little as he remains in performance mode. A few chords later he starts up singing Bullfrog, and by the time it's done, everybody is smiling and laughing again.

Song

*Katie looks sternly at Jason. A certin annoyance in her tone.*

"Jason you can stop saying sorry anyday now, after heading you say it for almost 2 years it gets kind of tiring. And no you dont make things harder on me. I make things harder on me, by locking my own feelings away."

*Katie gives her head a shakes again."

"No its not you at all. Its me."

*Leaning back in the chair Katie crosses her arms and looks at Jason.*

"I know people are waiting for me. They can just wait. I've spend time with them all day. I'd like to spend alittle with my friend. So...I ask you AGAIN. Are you coming to the Bonfire?"

*Wes courners of his mouth upturn in a grin as he sits listing to the soft music. Suddanly words start to enter his mind. Glancing around at the people He finally speaks.*

"OK I have a song to sing. But you have to all promise not to laugh at my horrable voice. I'm going to dedacate this song to everyone at the ranch, and TJY. Even thoughs who dident come."

*Leaning over to Wendy Wes whispers something to her and she nods. Starting to strum a soft yet upbeat tone. Wes stands and for a moment closes his eyes. Leting his memories at the ranch flow as he sings.*


It started out as a feeling
Which then grew into a hope
Which then turned into a quiet thought
Which then turned into a quiet word

And then that word grew louder and louder
'Til it was a battle cry
I'll come back
When you call me
No need to say goodbye

*Wes remembers the day he ment Cindy. On that day he new his life would change forever. God had a reason for him being here, for loving Rosetta at one time to stay. If he hadent this life he was starting with Cindy would never had happend. Wes sit back down puting his arm around Cindy.

As if it was planed Rosetta stands as the music plays on. Her own voice starting to have a nice melody to it.*

Just because everything's changing
Doesn't mean it's never
Been this way before

All you can do is try to know
Who your friends are
As you head off to the war

Pick a star on the dark horizon
And follow the light
You'll come back
When it's over
No need to say good bye

*Rosetta memories come back to her. So many times Mick had left, or been kiddnaped, even gone on missions and dident come back with the rest. Never knowing when she would see him again. But God new what he was doing and in time Mick always did come back. Rosetta never gave up hope, or gave in trusting in God knowing this was in his plane. Again Mick would be leaving tomarrow and the question was lingering in the air. Would he be back? God new that answer to that question. And all Rosetta could do was have faith. Rosetta sits her eyes drifting to Mick filled with emotions.

Angel stays siting put looks around the bonfire. Her voice soft as Wendy continues to play.*

Now we're back to the beginning
With the new generation
It's just a feeling and no one knows yet
But just because they can't feel it too
Doesn't mean that you have to forget

Let your memories grow stronger and stronger
'Til they're before your eyes

You'll come back
When it's over
No need to say good bye
To say good bye…

*Angel eyes linger on Scott, than Wendy, Clint, Ty, and Rosalynn. Her mind even drifts to the two that wernt here Jason and Katie. Angel scan some of the other as well, the next generation. They had been pulled into this curse of a mess no matter who they tryed not to let it happen. They were. The heart ack, the pain. Angel could only hope tomarrow would go well and TJY could be in the open. Than the search to take down the Agency would continue so finally there could be peace. Angel slips her hand into Lukes and leans her head on his shoulder.

A certin quietness settled over to bonfire. Even Wendy stoped playing for a moment. Just to reflect on the words that were said. Till finally the music started again, the laughter, storys and chatter.*

*Aerith returns Wyatts kiss and smiles at she stand and streaches. Her shoulders feeling alittle better. *

"Mmmm....food sounds good. And if I can help at all I'd like to."

*Aerith slowly follows Wyatt into the kitchen awaiting instructions.*

Together

Jason's head is turned but he doesn't have to look up to know that Katie is approaching. He was never surprised anymore, though always felt a certain amount of guilt for knowing that Katie felt what he was going through.

He lifts his head as she sits down across from him, and eyes the apple wearily, traces of a smile somewhere on his lips. "Sorry, Katie...I just always make things harder for you, don't I?"

Slowly he takes the apple, turning it absentmindedly in his hand for several moments before obediently taking a bite.

Sighing, he shrugs, not answering her question. "People will be missing you if you don't show up out there," he comments. "Scott headed out with everyone else, I'm sure he's waiting for you."


Con laughs and holds Jamie tight, spinning her around once as she jumps on him. Not letting her slide to the ground, instead, he lifts her up higher, slinging her over his shoulder like a sack of potatoes. "I think we'll find room," he muses with humor. "I'll just threaten to sit on somebody if they don't move."

Luke puts an arm around Angel, grateful for her help and quiet respect of not making a big deal out of the fact that getting out here tonight was difficult for him. He just wants to enjoy this night with the one he loves...a prayer ever on his mind that it won't be the last.

Laura leans into Nate as he puts an arm around her, resting her head against his chest and closing her eyes, just enjoying the warmth of the fire and the sweet sounds of the soft guitars.

The scene is so quiet...so peaceful...

Scott sits back away from the others alone, just watching and not interacting much. A few conversations start to roll around parts of the group, and gradually some laughter starts up, bringing spirits higher. Scott sighs a little and stares into the fire, thinking about Katie...hoping she's okay...wishing she would come.

"So are we gonna have some singing or what?" Sparky stops his soft strumming and tries to find some good chords. "We can't have a bonfire without singing."

"Don't forget we got treats over here too!" Becky exclaims. "We're not letting all this stuff go to waste!


Wyatt grins as he continues to rub Aerith's shoulders. "Well, I don't think it would take too much convincing to get me to do it again."

Leaning down, he plants a soft kiss on her lips. "I don't know about you, but I'm starving. If you want to come see the Reese chefs at work, come in the kitchen with me. But promise no laughing."

It starts

*Katie trys to muster up the best smile she can. She did feel alittle better after talking to Con. He always seemed to know the right things to say at the right time.*

"Thanks Big Brother."

*After watching Con walk away Katie turns back around leaning aganst the fence post once again. Just leting her mind run wild. Finally reverting to the growing feeling of Jason's emotions. His fear, pain, anxioty, his akwardness. The feelings he had filling her. Than resting on the growing feeling in her that Jason hadent eaten much all day and his bloodsugar was geting low.

Pushing herself off the fence Katie takes the long way around not to be noticed yet slipping into the messhall. Grabing an apple from the bowl on the table Katie goes over to Jason and sits down across from him slidding the apple twords him.*

"You really should learn to eat more before I make Rick keep you in the infermary when we get back."

*Katie trys to smile alittle. Katie's own emotions refelt in her eyes. Trying to convay to Jason she wasent upset with him. She was just confused herself. Trying to bring things back to a lighter note.*

"I'm glad you came Jason. Are you going to join everyone for the bonfire?"

*The bonfire crackles and burns as people start to gather. People helping Rosetta but throwing a few logs on. The night is a bit chilly but by the fire provides warmth for the others. As the fireflys dart around in the dark beyond the fire.

Rosetta looks around and finding Mick she sits down next to him, and BJ on his other side. Both wraped up in his arms, as the fire burns.

Jamie bounds out of the mess hall as Con starts to walk up. Giving a running start Jamie draws closer to Con and jumps into his arms wraping her legs around his wast and planting a big kiss on his lips before drawing away.*

"We had better get some good seats. It looks like it filling up fast over there."

*Wendy finishes up in the bunk house throwing her sweatshirt and making her way out of the bunk house. Her own guitar in hand. A smile on her face Wendy heads to find a seat on a log and wait for Clint softly join in with Sparky on strumming away.

Angel helps get Luke to the campfire just being a shoulder for him to lean on. Placing a pillow on the ground for him Angel sits down next to him.

Nate directs Maggie twords the bonfire, leting her know she can sit anywhere she likes. Looking around at all the faces she nods at Laura.*

"There, with Laura."

*Nate smiles down at his sister as they slowly go around the campfire and sit down with her. Nate draps his arm around Laura's shoulder.*

For the moment everyone was quiet. There memories in there own mind. Tomarrow lingering. Some dident want this day to end. They hoped tomarrow would never get here. But like the sand in an hour glass it slips by and today could be all they had left. They better enjoy the time while they could.

*Aerith leans her head down as Wyatt rubs her shoulders. The cooling sensation on top of the shoulder rub felt good. A smile cross her face.*

"If you dont stop your going to put me to sleep. For a guy you sure do have a gentil touch. Good quility. I'll have to get you to give me one more offten."

*Aeirth looks at Wyatt the thank you lingering in her eyes as they dance with joy.*

So much joy, so much pain

Cindy is hesitant to go to Jason after his reactions earlier in the day, but her husband’s reassurance gives her the extra shove she needs. Nodding, she rises from her seat, excusing herself from the others around her.

From a distant perspective, a mother rises and goes to her son. As she sits down beside him, words are exchanged that no one can hear. Perhaps they are words meant to gently chide. Or perhaps they are simple words of encouragement. Even still, perhaps they are words that simply offer a listening ear.

But as a son’s head falls to his mother’s shoulder and a mother’s arm wraps around her son, brokenness can be felt. Brokenness of the heart. Brokenness of the soul. That which has strength of no other, powerful enough to bring a man to his knees in surrender, grasping for hope, even if it is within his own mother’s embrace…an embrace that can heal like no other.


Con listens to Katie quietly, finally leaning on the fence next to her to look out across the darkening pasture. When she is done, he simply lets silence rule for a long while. “We’re all feeling it, Kat,” he finally responds quietly. “Some of us are just better at hiding it than others.’”

He shakes his head a little. “It’s not ridiculous…you’re human, whether you like it or not.” A slight chuckle surfaces. “Whether the rest of us realize it or not too. You’re so strong that sometimes we forget you’re human just like us, and we take that strength for granted.”

Reaching over, he gives Katie’s shoulder a squeeze. “It’ll be okay, Kat…no matter what…it will be okay. God’s not going to up and abandon us. He’s got a plan here, whether we can see it or not. We’re all confused…we’re all hurting. But we just have to hold our chins up and march forward, praying and hoping for the best.

“You want things to be normal again…but you’re right…they never will be. They never will go back to the way they were…the days of innocence…the days of nothing but carefree fun. But “normal” can be today. You can change your future, Kat. You have control over it – no one else. No matter who fights with you, who fights over you, or who tries to put you down…in the end…it doesn’t matter. Because you’re the one that holds the key, not them.”

Con gestures with his hand back towards the mess hall. “You’ve got a boy in there who has fallen head over heels for you, and let me tell you, he’s a different man when he’s around you. I’ve been working with him for years, and I’ve never seen him like this…and it’s good. It’s been good for him, and I can see it’s been good for you too. Don’t let that suffer because of these circumstances. That’s just what the Agency wants…to break us all apart, confuse us, and weaken us as we split up.”

He shakes his head, cocking it slightly to see Katie’s face. He offers her a small smile. “We feel pain so we can gain strength. We fall down so we can pick ourselves back up. And we risk our very hearts if only to gain an instant of pure joy. Hang onto that joy, Kat. It’s there.”

Movement catches his eye and he sees several people filing out of the mess hall and heading around back. He knew they were going to start the bonfire. “I’m still here if you need me,” he offers.

Turning, he starts away slowly, his hands hooked in his pockets as he aims for the mess hall, Jamie his destination.


People begin to help clear away the supper dishes and chatter picks up once again as excitement builds for the bonfire. Couples automatically stick together and head out to find good spots to sit. Sparky and Mel disappear for several minutes until they’re back again, heading for the bonfire site, Sparky with his guitar in hand.

Though unsure about this evening, Scott eventually follows suit, feeling just a little overwhelmed by everybody, and not knowing who to latch onto for company. He didn’t want to intrude upon anyone, and everyone else seemed to know their places automatically, slipping into their roles as friends or family. Scott wanders to the site and finally finds a log towards the back, and he sinks down slowly, gingerly sitting on the ground, careful not to land too hard.

The mess hall grows quiet. Just a few lights are left on as some of the women scurry in the kitchen preparing snacks. Jason is alone at his table, his mind wandering everywhere it will. He didn’t want to do this now…he didn’t want to hurt Katie any more…but after this evening…it seemed impossible to keep all of his emotions in. There was just so much pain left.

Closing his eyes for a moment, Jason has to let some of it out, lest the hurt become too much for him to bear tonight. Memories flood back to him…memories of being here before…the wrong choices he’d made…the friendships he’d severed. Being here again…the renewed pain of thinking about his past. The awkwardness of being around Wes. The uncertainty of being around his mother again. The fear of being around his group of coworkers who he hadn’t allowed to be his friends lately. No matter the emotion, it all hurt.

Opening his eyes again, Jason finds that he’s resting his head on his arms. He was tired…exhaustion was creeping up on him. He’d had little sleep…he’d had no food. He was just…tired.

BonFire

*Wes nods to his wife from across the table trying to give her reasureance.*

"Why dont you go sit with him hun! Maybe he needs his mom right now?"

*Wes gives Cindy a smile and squeezes her hand lightly from across the table.*

*As Katie feels Con's hand her gives a jump. Her crying had muffled any sounds of someone coming up behind her. Turning and looking up at Con her eyes streaked with tears. Using her arm to whipe the head away Katie gives a dry laugh.*

"I feel like I am a kid again Con. This is radiculace."

*Katie sighs and sucks in her tears trying to stop herself from crying.*

"I guess my emotions are just running on over drive right now. Being faced with tomarrow I guess just braught alot of things up. Jason, Scott the tention with him. I know its to be exspected its just...I dont know. You tryed to warn me Big brother and I dident listen. and now things are such a mess in that area. I just want them to get along again, and things to be normal even though I know never will be.

And than tomarrow, alot is at stake and so many lifes are at risk. So many people could be torn apart. Life just isent fair. Growing up stincks, and I dont have any idea what I am really feeling. I just....I dont know."

*Katie leans on the fence post again and stairs off into the dark. her mind racing with so many thing.*

*As the time pass and everyone finishs up eating Rosetta stands clearing her thought and looking around the room.*

"As alot of people know, we have a tradition around the ranch. In the summer time we have Bonfires for the guests once a week. We already had one this week for the guests that are here but I'd like to have another one with you all. To shair this treat with you. So if anyone would like you join you can."

*As Rosetta draws silent Wendy speaks up beaming.*

"You wont be disapointed eather. A bonfire here is like, eating gallons of icecream. You cant fine anything better."

*Rosetta smiles at Wendy and speaks again.*

"Again anyone is welcome to come I am going to be heading out now to start it. Join when you are ready we will have more treats out there and lemonaid."

*Pushing her chair away from the table Rosetta takes her and BJ's plates puting them in the sink. Than heading outside Rosetta makes her way to the firepit to start the bonfire. Waiting for other to join her.*

Confused hearts

Greg smiles at Rosetta. “I’m doing pretty well. Better than most my age I’d wager.” He chuckles. “I’ve been ‘retired’ for the last ten years, but I’ve found I’m even busier now…not that I mind. Retirement is for the old and worn out…and I’m far from worn out. I’m glad to be back in this grand adventure, no matter what my nephew might say.”


As Katie leaves the table. Jason couldn’t feel lower. He’d known coming over here had been a mistake.

Scott watches her leave, worried about her…concerned at the abruptness…upset at Jason’s intrusion. But he dares not throw the glare he wants to. Jason may have said it was over, but Scott still knew the law of physics, and Jason was taller and stronger no matter what, and Scott needed to keep his mouth shut to stay out of trouble.

Jason waits a moment, then turns without saying another word to Scott. He aims for an empty corner table, sinking into a chair without getting anything to eat. He should have known better.

Scott looks down at his plate of food and shoves it away, his appetite lost. He wanted to go after Katie, but he held himself back. He knew he was making it none too easy for her…not when Jason was around. Maybe he shouldn’t have come after all. His presence just seemed to be making things worse, even if they had had a great afternoon. Once the dust settled, emotions were still high, and the tension was still there.

Con catches Jamie’s eye after he sees what’s happening, and he gives a little shake to his head, signaling that he didn’t know what had happened, but the tension witnessed wasn’t all that surprising.


Cindy glances up from her food seeing her son enter the mess hall, then a few minute later witnessing Jason trudge to a corner by himself to sit alone away from the others. Pain flickers in her eyes. She’d thought about going home for the evening meal as normal and inviting Jason over, but she’d thought it would be nice tonight to spend time with everyone, and she’d thought Jason would be responding to those around him. Apparently she’d been wrong.

She looks across the table to Wes, looking for reassurance.


The hand that is gently laid on Katie’s shoulder is unmistakable by its size and warmth. Con stands behind her, the concern etched in his face. “Hey, little sister…what’s the matter, hun?”


Wyatt smiles and squeezes some ointment into his hand. Touching Aerith’s shoulders, he’s as gentle as he can be, softly rubbing the soothing ointment onto her burned skin. “Thanks for coming along with us today, Aerith…I really enjoyed myself…and I could tell that Dad did too.”

Silent walk

*Finally having Scott arive Katie eyes show they are weary but happy to see Scott.*

"And where were you?"

*Katie cant help but laugh and continue normal conversation with Scott. Seeing Jason make his way over her face lits up. Finally he was going to say hi. Katie quickly looks between the two boys. A strange feeling coming over her. Seeing Scott's fear and seeing Jason's hesatence proves to be to much on Katie's own emotions. It was becoming the end of the day and though her afternoon with Scott was good, time was coming to a close and tomarrow was heavy on her mind as a sick feeling was in her stomach. Katie eyes meet Jason's for a moment so much emotion wanted to pour out. Tears threaten to release from Katie's eyes. Standing Kaite pushes back her chair.*

"Excuse me for a moment, I'm sorry."

*Quickly Katie makes her way around the table and heads out of the mess hall ignorning the stairing eyes. Her head hurt and felt like it was going to explode. Crossing the yard Katie just keeps walking leting the cool breeze his her face. Finally geting to the far pasture Katie stop at one of the posts leaning her arms on it and burring her face in them. Leting her tears finally flow free. Katie wasent sure what emotion she was feeling right now they all seemed so messed up. Katie just wished everything could be normal again.*

*BJ looks up at Mick and smiles a toothy grin.*

"Yes, we pwayed dames, and I tickles Con. Than we made baloony samiches. and..."

*Bj continues to babble to Mick about his day and what went on. Rosetta watches the two as they talk her smile growing bigger. Finally leaning over to Greg who wasent to far away Rosetta smiles.*

"Sorry I dident get a chanse to talk before. How are you? Its really good seeing you again."

*Rosetta's attachen is take away from Greg for a moment as Katie leaves. Leting out a sigh Rosetta figures its nothing and goes back to talking.

Jamie watches as Katie leaves and than look at Con a question in her eyes about her friend disapearing.*

*Aerith rides home in silence leting the breeze send her hair flying. The coolness felt good on her hot sun burnt skin.

Arriving back at Wyatt's Aerith helps him put the items away. Than receveing his offer to put the ointment on she smiles and accepts. strattling one of the chairs so Wyatt can reach her back easy Aerith puts her hair up into a short tight pony tail.*

"Gentle now my shoulders are really sore."

Can't be stopped

Scott looks down at Katie, his face growing all the more redder, and he shakes his head, though ironically managing a “Yeah, sure.”

Gingerly dismounting, he opts not to sit, but attempt to walk it off, trying not to make this into a big deal. It was bad enough that he was a city slicker, and then to make a fool out of himself on top of it was just icing on the cake. Not that he wasn’t used to it. He just wished he could have been a little bit less clumsy in front of Katie.

He finally replies to her question. “I’m not gonna make you walk all the way back. Besides, I’d never live it down.” Bending over to rest his palms on his knees for a moment, he takes a deep breath. “Whew…okay…”

Straightening again, he looks at Katie, swallowing the pain. “No, stick with your own horse. I’ve got something to prove at this point, though so far I’m doing a doozy of a job.”

Cringing just as bit, he goes back to Crimson and mounts up again, easing slowly back into the saddle. The sweat the runs down the side of his face isn’t just from the heat anymore, but he grits his teeth together, determined not to make a big deal out of this.

He’s quiet most of the way back to the ranch. He’d gladly spend all his free time with Katie, but right about now, he can’t wait until the ride ends. It was faster than walking though, so he perseveres.


As the two reenter the ranch yard, Jeff is there to greet them. “Hey, you two. I was just about ready to come out looking for ya. How was the ride?” He quirks an eyebrow, seeing the look on Scott’s face. “Crimson throw you again?”

Scott grimaces and pulls Crimson to a stop. “Not exactly.” Rising to swing his leg over the horse’s back, he slowly lets himself down to the ground, taking a moment before even trying to walk. He was so stiff he could barely move. He’d never been this sore in his life.

Jeff takes Crimson’s reins, eyeing Scott skeptically. “Rough ride?”

“You could say that.”

“You don’t look so hot.”

“I don’t feel so hot.”

“What happened?”

Scott cringes and shakes his head. “You don’t want to know. Just imagine a saddle horn and me flying about six inches too high and about six inches too far forward.”

Jeff’s eyes widen. “Whooo boy. No wonder you’re walking like…”

“Jeff.” Scott’s eyes beg him to stop. “I’m fine.”

Jeff takes the hint and stops before teasing begins. “Other than that?”

“The sights were great.” Scott nods. “It was pretty.” Following Jeff and Katie into the barn, he’s not much help unsaddling or rubbing down the horses, but he sticks around anyway, not wanting to just up and leave them to all the work.

When finished though, he’s back with Katie for just a moment before bowing out of any more immediate adventures. “Thanks for the ride, Katie.” Despite the pain he’s in, his thanks is genuine. “I did have a good time.” He nods to the trail that leads back to the cabin. “I’m going to, um…go clean up. So, I’ll catch you in just a little bit, alright?”


The afternoon sun cannot be held back, despite the desire of those at the ranch to keep the day forever. Though arms are locked in hugs, time persists. Though hearts are being shared, the hours still pass. Though reunions are sweet, minutes are robbed like a fleeting mist.

And too soon, the sun is sinking lower in the sky, beginning it’s final farewell on this day, beckoning the coolness of evening…drawing the moon into its own play to watch over the land.


The gang begins to gather in the mess hall from supper. Everyone having found their own places for the afternoon finally come together again as one group, greeting each other warmly as if a week had gone by instead of only hours.

Mick is sure to regain his seat with Rosetta, BJ and Jade. Con automatically sits with Jamie, Laura with Nate and Maggie, and Ty timidly sits with his newfound family, along with Luke, Angel and Wendy all at one long table. Couples find each other as usual, and off to the side, Sparky and Mel sit together as well, though seem just a little bit happier than usual, a mischievous twinkle in Mel’s eyes, and a new light in Sparky’s.

As the food is prepared, the conversations are a bit loud, mixed with laughter and the sound of chairs moving on the tiled floor.

“So anyway, I…” Con glances around, for the first time, realizing that Scott isn’t with Katie at the other table. “Say, where’s Scott run off to?”

Laura shakes her head. “We were looking for him earlier, but he seemed to have disappeared. Pete said he was back at the cabin for just a few minutes once, but he hadn’t seen him since.”

“Odd…”

“Oh, you know him…he probably went and found a corner to hibernate in.”

“With Katie around?” Con smirks a little. “I think you underestimate the power she has over him.”

Laura giggles. “Maybe.”


As if on cue, the door opens and Scott finally reappears to those who had wondered at his whereabouts. Looking over the room he finds Katie and makes his way to her, walking a bit slowly…a bit stiffly…and it’s obvious to just those who knew he’d been riding that he was trying very hard not to show how sore he was.

Grabbing a chair across from Katie, he eases down carefully and tosses her a grin. “Sorry I didn’t catch up with you sooner.”


…Jason enters the mess hall somewhat awkwardly, noting that everyone else was already there. The smell of food hits his nostrils making his stomach growl, reminding him that he’d unwisely skipped lunch today. From the looks of things, the evening meal had already started.

Scanning the faces, he sees little room for intrusion. Families were sitting together…friends and fiancés were sitting together. A few guys were by themselves, but even they had congregated at one of the back tables.

Sighing a little, Jason’s eyes land on Katie. Guilt hit him just a little bit, as he remembers he hasn’t even said hi to her. Not that it was required, but knowing Katie, she’d probably noticed him being offish. He hadn’t really meant to…it had just…happened. He felt out of place here…like an outsider.

Spying Scott with Katie, Jason’s shoulders sink lower. Even going to say hi to her seemed difficult now. But there was only one way it was going to get easier, and if he couldn’t do it for himself, he had better do it for Katie so this whole thing quit being so hard on her.

Standing a little taller, Jason weaves in between the tables, nodding to a few other people who greet him, and he comes up on Scott and Katie, approaching from Scott’s side of the table.

Scott is in the middle of a conversation with Katie when he catches sight of Jason coming towards him. Immediately on edge, reflexes cause him to jump, and he starts to rise from his chair, unwanted fear hitting him.

But Jason’s hand goes firmly to his shoulder, pushing back down a little roughly to avoid a scene. “It’s over, Scott.” He speaks sternly but quietly. “Please stop being afraid of me.”

Scott swallows hard and glances to Katie, then back up to Jason. “Easier said than done.”

“I know.” Jason removes his hand, his eyes unwilling to stay still. “But I was wrong.” He looks over to Katie and gives her a little nod. “I’m a little late, but I just wanted to say hi to you guys…I hadn’t had a chance since I got here this morning.” An empty chair sits at their end of the table, but Jason dares not sit. He’s done enough damage without barging in on Katie and Scott’s meal together.


Mick leans back in his chair and grins at BJ who is just getting settled, waiting for the evening meal. “So, did you have fun with Jamie and Con today?”


Wyatt cringes a little at Aerith’s discovery of her own sunburn. “Yeah, I thought it looked like you were getting a bit red. When we get back to my place, I got some stuff that you can put on it that will help with the sting.”

Fishing for just a while longer, Wyatt and Reese are finally satisfied with how many fish they have. Starting to gather up all their tackle and remnants from their noon meal, they realize that the sun is lower in the sky than they’d realized.

Wyatt makes sure that Aerith is with them and they make their short trek back to his jeep, taking the ride home with the top down, letting the wind comb their hair.

Arriving back at Wyatt’s house, Reese is quick to get to the kitchen to start preparing the fish while Wyatt gets their tackle put away. After cleaning up just a bit, he finds Aerith in the living room, and holds out a small bottle of ointment. Cocking his head a little, he holds it out his hand. “May I?”

Walk or Mine

*Katie comes up along side Scott seeing what happend. For a moment she is silent leting Scott try and recover. She could feel his pain for him. Finally Katie speaks her own pain from what happend in her voice.*

"Scott are you ok?"

*Katie dismounts placing a hand on Scott's arm relized how stupid her queston was.*

"Scott, Here...come on get down and sit for a second. "

*Giving Scott some time to recoop Katiefinally stands again.*

"Ok we are almost half way back to the ranch we can eather walk the rest Hun. or you can ride Rocket. Her stride is much softer and could be less painful for you, its up to you at this point."

*Katie here eyes still full of worry for Scott.*

*Jamie and BJ finish with the sandwhich. As BJ hopes down off the chair and heads to he table puting it back. Jamie turns place and sandwhichs down and looks up to see Greg. Giving a friendly smile she walks up along side Con.*

"Hi. I'm Jamie. We were just siting down for something to eat. Would you like anything?"

*Aerith opens her eyes as Wyatt speaks to her. She was comfortable and was lost in though on the rock. Siting up she smiles at Wyatt.*

"As long as I am still invited I'd love to. I'm not really in a hurry to go home."

*Scratching her shoulder a bit of pain shoots trhough it. Looking down she can see her shoulders are beat red. Leting out a sigh she winces in pain.*

"I forgot to put suntan lotion on great. I look like a lobster and feel on fire."

...

Scott cocks his head as Katie talks, digesting her reasoning for staying in Nevada, and her connection to this place. He doesn’t say a whole lot, but gives a start as she mentions heading back down. He’d been so comfortable that he’d lost all track of time.

“No, I don’t think heat stroke would be a very good ending for this trip. Though knowing me, it wouldn’t be something I couldn’t pull off.” He rolls his eyes, helping Katie clean up and head back.

Keeping a grasp on her hand, he follows along with her until they reach the cave. Pausing behind the waterfall again, he gives a little shrug. “Me? Leave Nevada? What would a homebody like me want someplace else?”

The corner of his mouth upturns. “Nah, guys like me set ourselves down in a cozy corner and stay there, lest we venture out too far and make more of a fool out of ourselves than we already have by our quirks and habits of hibernating behind computers.”

Scott gives Katie’s chin a light tweak before tightening his grip on her hand and stepping further into the cave, signaling the end of the conversation.

Finally getting back to the horses, Scott has to take a few minutes to figure everything out again and make sure he’d tightened the girth properly before mounting up again.

Crimson is a bit anxious to get back to the ranch and Scott has just a bit of trouble holding him back, especially with as sore as he already was. But making their way back down the mountain seemed not to take as long as it had coming up, and the sights were just as pretty.

As they reach gentler slopes, nearing the wider path, a rabbit darts across the path. Crimson, already hot and tired of moseying back to the barn, takes the opportunity to shy. Jumping to the side, he gives a little buck and tries to break out.

Scott feels the quick movement and immediately draws his reins back to keep the horse from bolting. But not having an experienced seat, his body is propelled straight up out of the saddle. With Crimson held back, Scott doesn’t fall off the side or the back, but comes back down hard too far forward, hitting the saddle horn before sliding back into the seat, both feet out of his stirrups.

Though Crimson can tell he’s not going to be allowed to bolt and simply keeps walking, Scott doubles over in pain, hunching over the front of the saddle, his eyes starting to water.

He sees Katie and Rocket beside him, but can’t find his voice just yet to even tell her he’s fine, and just lets Crimson keep on walking. Letting out his held breath and cringing, his face reddens with more embarrassment than anything. If Katie hadn’t seen where he landed, he wasn’t about to admit it.


Con just stands in the kitchen doorway for several minutes, watching Jamie interact with BJ, and enjoying the sweet picture.

“You have got to be Conrad.”

Con turns around, hearing someone speaking. “Pardon?”

Greg smiles. “Conrad?”

“That would be me.” Con approaches with an outstretched hand. “And you are…?”

“Greg Timble.”


Time passes slowly through the afternoon, and after resting for a while on the rock, Wyatt finally rises to join his father in fishing once again.

As the sun makes its way across the sky, he glances over to Aerith. “You are coming over to help us eat this fish for supper tonight, aren’t you?”

This moment

*Laying down on Wyatt's arm for a pillow Aerith closes her own eyes. Many pictures fill her mind and flash before her eyes. Good memories, happy memories. Wyatt had given her more than just his devotion, but on this day Wyatt also help Aerith keep the memorie of her father alive and well.

Listing to Wyatt's words, and the noises around her Aerith keeps her eyes closed as she whispers.*

"Its God's song to us."

*Than grows silent again just listing, soaking in the sun, the sounds and Wyatt's presence. This was bliss and happyness. Something Aerith hadent felt in so long.*

*Bj stands with Jamie taking Con and her hands leaning them.*

"I want to hwelp too please."

*BJ smiles as they head into the kitchen opening the fridge he russles around for a minute before pulling out some balonie, mustard, and mayo. Struggling BJ trys to put the stuff on the counter but isent quiet tall enough to reach.

Seeing BJ struggle Jamie goes over to him and takes the stuff helping him push it on the counter and than grabs some bread.

BJ quickly waddles away from the counter and grabs a chair pushing it to the counter next to Jamie ready to help her.

Jamie smiles at BJ as she takes a dull knife from the draw. Opening the Mayo Jamie repositions herself so she is behind BJ. Gently taking his hand in her Jamie helps guild them as he takes out some bread. Showing him how to hold a knife Jamie opens the mayo before playing her hands back on BJ the knif in hand. Helping him dip it into the mayo and than spread it on the bread.

Smiling BJ turns to Con.*

"Tome on you need to hwelp too. You tan put the balloon...."

*BJ thinks for a moment knowing that, that dident sound right.*

"Bologa...bollne...dologna...ya dats it dologna. You tan put the dologna on the bed...bread."

*Jamie cant help but laugh at BJ and his words as he talks. Looking over at Con Jamie smiles. She loved kids. Knowing if things were to keep going fearther with Con they wouldent be able to have any dident bother Jamie much. She loved Con for all that he was. She dident want anything more. She would be happy and satisfied just having him. And God had a plane. They dident know what it was yet, but he had a reson and new the desigers of the heart. God new what he was going and it was in his hands.*

*Wendy's cheeks turn red as Jim makes his pressence known and Clint helps her stand up. Once Jim is gone Wendy throws a playful elbow at Clint.*

"I dident instigat anything. Did you guys see me do anything? I was just retaileating."

*Wendy cant help but laugh as she puts one of her free arm around Clint starting forward slowly.*

"Come on, lets get something to eat before you dad thinks we are kissing again"

*Wendy cant help but grin and try to stuff her laughter away as they continue forward.*

*Katie thinks for a moment before answering Scott. The question he asked had enterd her mind before and she neevr really gave herself an answer. Looking back at Scott Katie slowly speaks.*

"I have though about it. I miss it here and its home. My life before the ranch wasent the best and I blocked alot of it out. Most of the memories I have are of here at this ranch. And I have though of coming back. But I than also remember I have gained so much more, and so many more memories in Nevada. I've made a new life and alot of new friends. I like my job there at TJY too. So I dont think I am ready to leave that all behind yet. So maybe someday I will end up back here, but for now I think my place is alse where."

*Katie smiles at Scott satisfied with her answer. She did love it here, but for right now it wasent home.

Alittle more time pass. Once Katie and Scott are done eating Katie packs everything up making sure not to leave any garbage behind on the moutain. Standing and going over to the edge of the moutain again Katie looks over than ranch again taking the sight in. Locking it in her memorie. She dident know when she would be back again So she wanted to capture a good picture in her mind to come back and viset when she wanted.

Glanding up in the sky Katie takes note to where the sun is. Feeling the heat pounding down on her and Scott. Taking his hand Katie smiles.*

"We'd better get back. We dont want to stay to long out in the sun or we will get sun stroke and I dont think thats how we want to spend the rest of the day."

*Still holding Scott hand Katie walks with him back through the cave stoping at the water fall again for a bref moment. Then turns to Scott.*

"What about you? Did you ever with you were some place differnt from Nevava?"

*Katie's own eyes now hold question, wondering, a curosity to why Scott had asked her.*

Bliss

Scott grins and joins Katie on the ground, grabbing a sandwich for himself, but only after taking a long drink. He's quiet for a long while, just thinking...letting the nature surround them. "This is nice out here, Katie... Growing up in the city I never got out too much to enjoy the country, then when I had the chance, I usually had my nose stuck in a book instead."

He chews his food and looks around. "Ever think about moving back here?" He doesn't meet Katie's eyes, question lingering there, but his motives for asking went unrevealed.


Clint starts to lose his balance and fall, but he's jerked back forward as Wendy catches him and brings him closer. Catching himself with his hands on the lawn, he's brought down to her level as she presses her lips to his, hovering over her. Caught off guard, but being drawn away from what's going on around him, Clint returns the kiss, allowing it to continue despite the watching eyes.

"Aw man!" Roaslynn sits up and turns around. "Ty, cover your eyes. They're at it again!"

Instead of turning, Ty gets an amused grin on his face and crosses his arms, watching his brother instead, cocking his head. "I will say I have an uninhibited brother...that much is obvious."

Hearing Ty, Clint finally has to let a smile break, which forces the kiss to end. Looking down into Wendy's eyes, he plants another quick kiss on her forehead. "I suppose now would be a good time to get up off the ground."

"I should say so."

Clint's eyes widen and he turns his head to squint up into the son, catching sight of his father's profile. "Ooh, bother."

Jim's arms are crossed and he quirks an eyebrow at his son. "I can't tell who's bothering who, but it doesn't appear that either of you mind too much. However I do recommend getting out of the grass before the chiggers get you."

"I don't think they care." Rosalynn rolls her eyes.

Clint clears his throat and rocks back on his heels to stand, giving Wendy a hand up as well. "I, um...it..."

Jim shakes his head, a small grin toying with his mouth. "Quit trying to think up excuses. You think I've never been there?" Finally letting his grin show, he turns to leave the siblings and Wendy alone. "Your mother and I will be in the mess hall."

"You do know how to make a spectacle of yourself, don't you?" Ty asks.

Clint turns to throw him a smirk. "It's my expertise." He turns back to Wendy. "Though this girl sure doesn't help things any, you instigator, you."

"As if you minded," Rosalynn teases.


Jason watches the antics from a safe distance away, going unnoticed. He'd passed by other people on his walk around the property. Everyone seemed so happy, despite tomorrow's unknowns. Everybody had somebody they were enjoying their time with. Everyone had someone to put an arm around them. Everyone had someone to smile with. Everyone had a purpose...though some didn't live here, all had found their place on this day. ...Why couldn't he?


Con is startled for just a moment at BJ's comment, but he recovers quickly, giving him and Jamie a bear hug. "Mmm...and I love you both too. How about we try to rustle up some grub around here?"


Laura laughs as Nate joins them in the grass, and she takes a deep breath of the clean air, closing her eyes and listening to the rustling grass. Her hand slowly moves over towards Nate's her fingers gently running across his own for a moment before she finally slips her hand into his to hold it. She'd thought she could never have a more wonderful moment than she'd experienced before...but this....this was pure bliss.


Mick's eyes widen as Rosetta pushes him back against the wall, and he stares at her a moment before she leans in for the second kiss. He's hesitant at first, simply because of where they are, but after a moment of tasting the sweet moment, he gives in, not caring about anything else. Wrapping his arms around Rosetta, he draws her even closer, their motions sending his hat falling off his head unnoticed.


Wyatt grins and lies flat on his back, closing his eyes against the sun. Reaching up, he pulls Aerith down all the way, giving his outstretched arm as a pillow. "Shhh....do you hear that?" he whispers. The water in the river bubbled gently past. Birds sang up high in the trees. A frog chirped from somewhere nearby. A breeze rustled the grass around the shore.

Heat Wave

*Katie lifts her head to the soft breeze it felt good on her hot skin. Giving a laugh Katie relizes that her own stomach was begging for food as well. Breaking away from Scott Katie goes to her bag that was layng on the ground. Pulling out two water bottle that at one time had solid ice in them now melted to water with a bit of ice still in it to keep it cold. Tossing one to Scott Katie nods.*

"Its a great way to have really really cold ice water and it keeps the food cold too."

*Opening the bottle and taking a large gulp of the water Katie than returns the cap and goes back to the bag. Pulling out a few sandwitches, some watermellon and some chips Katie stands and walks over to a nice clean flat patch. Siting down Katie gentures for Scott to join her.*

"Better eat up before I do. I dident relize how hungry I was. This workout sure did work up an apatite. It was worth it though."

*Katie winks as she takes a bit of her sandwhich.*

*Wendy trys to run fast as the boys take chase to her. Laughter and screams ringing through out the yard. Wendy cant help but laugh as she is pinned to the ground.*

"I'm laughing still cuz I got the immage of you slipping on the ice last winter helping Wes with the tree in my head all over again. Why I dont know but I did."

*Squirming Wendy breaks from Clint and gives him alittle push backwards but before he can fall backwards Wendy turns and grabs him by the shirt pulling him close to her, and before thinking in the heat of the moment Wendy's lips meet Clints as they linger, shairing a passanit moment.*

*As Jamie and BJ are wraped in Con's arms Jamie looks up at Austin.*

"I think I got this tank figured about. Crazy or not, I think I know how to handle him."

*Jamie streches her neck up and gives Con a quick kiss on the lips as BJ watches intently. As soon as Jame has returned to leaning aganst Con, BJ straghtens up streaching his little neck as far as it will go. Giving Con a soft kiss on the cheek he smiles.*

"I wove you too Con!"

*Maggie flops back with Laura and looks up at the sky laughing. Enjoying her time looking at the clouds. Giggling and point to them along with Laura.

Nate smiles as he watches pushing off the tree he walks over to his sister and Laura. Looking down over them for a moment he smiles than flops down next to Laura and looks up at the sky.*

"Oh ya that one does look like me!"

*Rosetta eyes go big for a moment as she stairs at Mick.*

"Huh what?"

*Pushing by him Rosetta peeks around the stall and trys to muffle her giggles. Rosetta had never know let along Sparky to be all out kissing someone before. It kind of made Rosetta feel fuzzy on the inside to see him happy. Steping back again Rosetta shakes her head a bit of color on her own cheeks.

Turning her eye to Mick a grin plays on her lips as she steps closer to Mick*

"I'm feeling kind of left out now."

*Stepping even closer to Mick Rosetta pushes him up agasnt the beam pressing her lips to him. Softly at fist drawing away for a moment biting her lip searching Mick's eyes and than in again. Leting all her emotions and feeling show in the next kiss. Rosetta felt like a kid again right there and now. Kissing Mick like she wanted to so many time in the past as kids, and now she was.*

*Aerith laughs and pants for breath as the hot air hits her once again. walking over to where Wyatt was Aerith sits down leaning back on her arms. Siting next to Wyatt Aerith was satisfied and comfortable as the sun beat down on them proving to be a dryer for there clothing. Looking to Wyatt Aerith eyes twinkle as she kicks his foot playfuly. Than looking back out at the water.*

Crazy tank

Though not surprised by Katie’s affection, her showing it never goes unwanted. Scott returns Katie’s kiss with gentle passion, his arms slowly making their way around her to draw her closer to him. Though his eyes were closed, he could see everything.

A cool breeze suddenly disrupts the heated air, bringing relief to the hidden lookout. Scott finally withdraws from Katie, just to pull her into a tight hug before holding her out at arm’s length.

“As much as I’d love to stand here kissing you all day…” His eyes sparkle with mischief, though they also beg for something else. “If I don’t get something in my stomach, I’m going to waste away to nothing, and then you’ll have to explain to everyone what really happened up here.”


Clint gives a surprisingly high-pitched shriek as Wendy’s fingers touch his ribs. He squirms out of her reach, unable to handle the tickling.

Ty jumps at her movement as well, even more surprised than Clint, and bewildered for just a moment.

“You…you…” Clint fishes for something to call after Wendy. “You mean…person…” His eyes go wide as he realizes just how lame he sounds.

Ty quirks an eyebrow at him. “Dude, you gotta work on those comebacks.”

“Great. You teach me. In the meantime, don’t let her get away with this!” Clint breaks into a sprint, running after Wendy.

Without thinking, Ty goes after him. More wiry than Clint, he passes him by, gaining ground on Wendy. As they cross the yard, Ty takes a flying leap, landing on the ground just close enough behind her to grab her legs and bring her down too.

“Ha!” Clint is quick to catch up, helping Ty pin Wendy to the ground. “Now who’s laughing, hmm??”

“Not fair!” Rosalynn hadn’t been far behind, and now helps fight for her friend by dragging Ty off of her, holding his arms behind his back. Instincts are automatic and Ty takes half a step back, kneels, and rolls forward, sending Rosalynn over his shoulders to do a summersault and land right next to Wendy.

Clint still straddles Wendy’s back and looks up in surprise. “You’ve got to show me how to do that.”


“Oh, no, not tickling!” Con squirms under BJ’s fingers, even though he can’t hardly feel a thing. “I won’t give up! I won’t!” Sitting up sends BJ tumbling into his lap, and he yanks Jamie down too, winding up with both of them locked in his strong arms.”

“So is this what you’ve been doing since I’ve been gone?” Austin cocks his head as he looks at the three of them from the doorway.

Con looks up, not having quite heard everything Austin said. His face turns a slight shade of red, but he doesn’t let either of his captives go. “Well hi there, Austin.”

Austin shakes his head, grinning just a little. “Jamie, just a fair warning – a crazy man is bad enough. A crazy tank is even worse.”


A bit of color enters Laura’s cheeks at some of Maggie’s words. She wondered if on some level Nate loved her…she knew he liked her, but…

Grinning, she watches the butterflies for a few more minutes before suddenly flopping onto her back, completely enveloped by the tall grass. “Ooh, look at the clouds, Maggie!” She points heavenward. “I see a cow….ooh, and a teapot….oooh,” She giggles. “That one looks like your brother when he’s pouting.”


Mick rides slowly back to the barn, Rosetta on her horse beside him. Finally dismounting, he gives Rosetta’s cheek a stroke with the back of his hand. “Thank you,” he says softly. “For just being you.”

Turning, he heads inside with Rosetta behind him to unsaddle the horses.

Heading down the aisle, he turns a corner but stops abruptly, spinning back around and holding out his arm to stop Rosetta as well, guiding her back a ways.

A laugh sticks in his throat and chokes him as he coughs it out, his cheeks gaining some color in them. He leans up against the wall, his eyes wanting to go wide, but he squints them almost shut instead.

“Unless you want to see my brother making out with Mel, don’t turn that corner,” he whispers. Covering his eyes with his hand, his shoulders start to shake, proving the humor he finds in this. Oh how he’d love to barge in on them, but he would feel too awful.


Wyatt grins. He can’t remember the last time he’s had this kind of fun. Hefting Aerith up further on his back, he carefully splashes through the water, finally sloshing up onto the shore where he lets her down. Running a hand through his drenched hair, he lets out a sigh. ‘Well…I didn’t think I would have to bring spare clothes along today.” He chuckles. “At least the water feels good on a hot one like this afternoon.”

He cocks his head to a couple nice big, flat rocks closeby. “I don’t know about you, but after this adventure, I’m ready to take it easy for a while and wait for those terrified fish to come back.”

Making his way over to the rock, he sets himself down, stretching out on his back to let the sun dry him and his clothes. He gestures for Aerith to join him.

Reese watches from his seat by the basket of food, a smile quirking his lips. Memories ran through his mind of a time he’d been in his son’s position. Oh how sweet it had been. He closes his eyes for a moment, reminiscing. Those happy moments had been gone a long time, but he still held them in his heart.