It'll be me

Carson keeps his eyes on Frankie, even as he receives Misty’s elbow and chiding. After Frankie’s comment, Carson’s one eyebrow quirks, showing a look of arrogant amusement. “If I’m left wanting, maybe I did ask for too much. But if I agree to Misty being pretty, that will be nothing new, so it won’t impress her, which leaves me back at square one, now doesn’t it. I think I can be more creative than that.”

He gives Misty a sly sidelong glance before looking back at Frankie. “Not that I need to impress her. I think I’ve done a fair job thus far, and if I do say so myself, it’s been an adventure worth having.”

Pausing for just a moment, a cocky grin toys with the corner of his mouth. “And if anyone does the killing around here, it’ll be me for any guy who interferes with what we got going.”

Another Carson

*A look pass in Katie eyes as she looks back at Jason knowing thats not what he was going to say but knows the reason for his change it. Giving a smile to Jason and than to Scott Katie was pleased they were talking again. She gives alittle nod.*

"Of corse I am . I cant leave you guys in danger. Pluse Jen need all the help she can get keep you guys in line. Just let me know the time and place and I'll be there."

*Misty snaps her head to Carson at his comment taken aback for a moment. She throws him and elbow and smiles.*

"For your sake I would hope your tasts arnt going anywhere."

*For a moment Frankie looks back up at Carson a grin forming on his face.*

"If my sister leave you wanting something more than your not an easy man to please and I dont think there is a woman out there who could. But you've stayed with her this long so there must be something she is doing right."

*Misty's head snaps back to her brother her jaw almost dropping. Her brother had always been forward but this was more than what she was useto. Maybe after being in jail Frankie changed to be more open and flippent about what he was saying. Anything was possable after all Jason had changed alot in prison so many her brother had changed as well. Misty could help but give a nervouse laugh as her face grew warmer by the minutes.*

"I'm a good kisser maybe. How about we talk about something alse now shall we?"

*Frankie looks to Misty and chuckles geting a kick out of embarssing his sister a suddin glint in his eye changes. A more joking, cold tone seems to show through slightly. Frankie looks back to Carson his voice showing his own cocky air.*

"I guess we are embarssing her. I dont know why thought. I always told you Misty even when you were younger you should be proude to be so pretty and make guys heads turn. Since then you have just got even pretter. Alot of women would kill to have your stunning looks. What do you think Carson?"

*Misty shakes her head she cant help but smile alittle bit at the complament her brother had been one to always give one. Still she felt alittle embarssed. She was use to Carson's remarks but it just felt alittle strange to hear them more openly from her brother. Misty was please though see Carson and her brother geting along. Misty never thought she would meet another Carson but Frankie was just like him in many ways and still differnt.*

"If you dont stop you going to give me a bigger head than I already have. Than I might flote away."

*Misty gives a smerk and laugh.*

Tastes

Jason starts to open his mouth to argue that it might not be any person to make him happy at all - he wasn't convinced of that. But he stops, letting her continue instead.

As she mentions missing him happy, and others missing him that way as well, a dimness passes through his eyes. He may have spoken with confidence, but there was still a lack of life, and he knew it...and he missed it too. He missed smiling...he missed laughing.

Seeing Katie start to leave, Jason isn't satisfied with the conclusion of their conversation. He doesn't know what else he wants to say, but it still felt so unresolved. "Katie..." He gets up from his desk and follows route to his doorway as she enters the hall. "I..." His voice trails off as he sees Scott coming near.

In a split second, his whole demeanor flips, his intentions totally changed, and he thinks fast, saying something completely different than planned. "I've been talking with the band about next weekend. We got a gig in Hoberton. You coming along for security? I know Jen could use a hand again too."

Scott cocks his head a little as he approaches. He'd liked JetStream when he'd heard them, and the thought of seeing them again was something he'd enjoy. "Public event?"

"Sure is," Jason nods. "Everyone's welcome. If you come early with Katie, you could even help us set up if you want. Come to think of it, Jen's been having trouble with the sound board - I bet you could figure out what's wrong with it."

Scott perks up a little bit. It was good to be on speaking terms with Jason again...being included in an outside activity was rather appealing, especially knowing Katie would be near so he wouldn't be alone in a crowd. "I could take a look." He glances at Katie. "You going?"


Carson eyes Frankie as he talks, wondering at the motives...plans...intentions. At Frankie's question, his eyes narrow slightly, a confidently wry grin emerging as he leans back in his chair. Something was challenging him...he wasn't sure what or how, but it was there...somehow, in Frankie's eyes. "I like to think it was me who held the bait, not her," he replies with cockiness. "Sass is an added bonus, but my tastes vary."

More info

*Katie looks down, though she was or through she was over to Jason his word still stung. She new what he said was true, but I guess part of her still had hung on. Katie new she had to let it go. Her and Scott where geting somewhere and she wanted it to work, but Katie had been ne that always found it hard to let go. Than she looks up again. Not scaired to show her own emotion.*

"No Jason, you cant do anything to the last string that is holding on.."

*Katie chokes on her own words. Life was hard, life was crule, having someone to help was nice, but this.....no one could help with.*

"...I have to cut that string myself. You staying away, is only going to make it harder."

*Katie stands her own nerves and emotions running to high to sit still. She felt shaky for some reson it could be just shock to her system Katie dident know.*

" I want you to be happy to Jason, I really do and if thats with whoever thats great."

*She did want Jason to be happy, she just felt crappy she wasent the one who could anymore.*

"You deserve to be happy Jason. You've been through so much. I'll be happy to see you happy again. I miss the happy, joking Jason everyone does."

*Katie looks down again, and than back up scaning Jason's office closing her eyes for a moment, than opening them again.*

"I better let you get back to work, and I better get back to mine. I'll see ya later."

*Katie gives her best smile to Jason and turns to leave his office. Her own heart was heavy, but in a sence she felt better. Though Jason's words hurt maybe she needed to hear them. They never really got to sit down and just talk about things. Maybe this was a start to stop the dwelling.*

*Jamie's face unturns in a smile as they make it to the chinese restrong.*

"A free day is good, means you can make up for not going to lunch with me tomarrow and spend the whole day with me."

*Frankie grabs a menu as well and hands one to Misty. He was glad to be siting across from his sister even if Carson was there too. It ws easy to see that since England they had grown even closer and he was a big part of her life. Continuing to scan his menu he replys to Carson.*

"Ya I think I will be sticking around for a while. Some busness took me out this way and I new Misty was around these part now. I'd like to get to know her again its been so long. I've missed out on so much of her life. As long as work dosent send me away again I'll be around for alittle bit."

*Misty looks up at her brother and smiles. Than looks to Carson and smiles. Than looking back at her menu she closes it knowing what she wants.*

"So when did you get out of Jail? Last time I new you were in for some time?"

*Frankie looks up at Misty alittle uneasy about talking about his Jail experince with his sister but knowing she had a right to know as well.*

" I've been out for about a year. I would of come to see you sooner but like I said work kept me away."

*Frankie closes his menu as well knowing what he wanted. Taking a sip of his drink he continues.*

"The one person I was employed for at the time got me out early. He told it couldent be me, and when I had my rehearing they jury rules misconduk and I was set up. Seeing as I couldent remember anything that happend when I woke up in that room, on top of not finding my finger prints they really dident have much of a case to start with. Its the old Miller charm that gets them all the time. So Carson is that who my sister reeled you in, or are you just the kind of guy who likes a sassy woman."

*Frankie throws alittle wink at Misty.

Misty smiles and blushes alittle bit. Her brother always was a bold person. sometimes TO bold.*

Raw thoughts

Jason looks down for a moment, not really surprised by Katie broaching the subject of the very tension in the room, but wasn't sure of just quite how to respond.

Glancing back up, he allows a wry grin to show. "What's normal?" He shakes his head and leans forward on his desk, folding his hands and looking Katie square in the eye. He didn't feel like saying this and hadn't gotten there himself, but he knew the words themselves were true. "Katie...when you and I both can pull our heads out of our butts and look at life the way we're supposed to instead of dwelling on what could have been, I think that tension will relieve itself."

He purses his lips in thought, growing a little more serious. "Look...I might as well just come right out and say it while I'm in a bold mood. I'm glad that you're happy with Scott, and every day when I see you smile more, I feel even better. I'm fortunate to have kept you as my friend, and that's all I want or need from you. The past is the past, and...I'm moving on." The honesty in that statement surprises even himself. As he looks at Katie now, in this very moment, he can sense the feelings fading.

Jason pauses for just a moment. "But that look in your eye betrays you. You and I...we're over. And... frankly, I'm lonely." His own words surprise him again...he hadn't planned on admitting that. "You've got Scott and though you and I are friends, there are just some things that we can't do together anymore. And...it's not fair to Scott if you get uneasy seeing another woman with me."

He leans back in his chair again. He'd arrived cranky this morning, and his mood was affecting the words he spoke as he continued to hold a dry, logical tone. "I don't need to justify anything, but Camryn and I are barely even friends. Right about now I'm not so sure I ever want to try at a relationship again with anybody, regardless of what people are assuming about me and her. But the two of us - you and me - we better get used to us living our own individual lives and be satisfied with what time we do spend together, otherwise we're just going to make ourselves miserable. We can't ever have what we used to have...but we can have something different...and I guess we just need to be glad of that."

He looks down for a moment, his weariness starting to get to him. His words were strong, but he was weakening in this battle. Gazing at Katie again, he searches her eyes. "And if there's anything I can to do help you cut that string, I'll do it. Whether it's staying out of your way, working on not giving you so much emotion all the time, or just keeping my mouth shut. I want you to be happy, Katie...and if me being around causes tension, then lets find a solution." In essence, he was blaming himself...he knew all of this - every bit of tension - was his own fault, and now he was reaping the consequences. He desperately wanted the tension to be gone too, and just didn't know how to make it happen within himself. His words to Katie sounded great, but he had yet to take his own advice. His own eyes betray him, despite his strong body language. He wanted to protect Katie from his own misery, despite realizing that impossibility.


Con laughs. "Yeah, I don't know when the guys started calling me that, but it stuck." He nods at Jamie's suggestion. "Chinese sounds great. Oh, by the way, tomorrow I'll have to ditch you for lunch...I'm not going to have enough time for a break until late - we're prepping the west end of the site and want to get the most accomplished we can before the rain comes that they're predicting next week."

He turns his head to her and grins. "Of course, for me, rainy days mean free days."


Carson can't help his skepticism as Frankie greets them. He accepts the handshake though, and musters a bit of a smile. "Nice to meet you." He nods as they head to the table. "Thanks." His accent seems thick today as he unknowingly slips into a defensive mode, paying little attention to annunciating his words as his nerves are stretched. Something just felt...odd. The look in Frankie's eye...his body language...his demeanor...it was calm and downright average. Nothing would lead Carson to believe that this man would have hurt Aerith, yet Jason had been insistent, along with Wyatt's agreement that yes, Frankie had tried to pull something. ...Strange.

Trying to relax for Misty's sake, Carson takes a seat next to her and grabs a menu, attempting some small talk. "So, Frankie...staying a while, or just passing through?"

Lunch

*Katie sits down in the chair across from Jason. The tention was so high it could be cut with a knife and Katie new Jason could feel it too.*

"If you think leave and than coming back would help than you could, but I think just trying to make the rest of day good would work better."

*Katie cant help but smile alittle trys to let herself relax. So Jason spend the night at Mikes. Well thast good Katie was glad she hadent assumed and made a jerk of herself, but still that pang was there. Katie trys to push it away not wanting the tention to continue.

" I said it always and was being honest, I just wanted to see how you were doing. I dident get time to talk to you much yesterday as much as I wanted to. But you already answered that question. I guess I just miss talking to you as much as I use to. We use to talk about everything and its so differnt now. We hardly even say Hi to eachother now. I hate this tention I just wish everything could be normal again ya know."

*Katie stops for a moment still looking Jason in the eye. She wasent even sure what she was saying and she felt like she had said this all before. Was she just repeating herself again, was what she was saying even comingout right.*

*Jamie smiles at Con as she pulls out of the site parking lot throwing a wave to anyone who was watching. Heading down the road Jamie thinks about a place to go.*

"How about..."

*Jamie continues to think.*

"Are you up for chinese? Thats always good for the Tanks that are hungry."

*Jamie cant help but aligh alittle bit.*

"I still think its so funny they call you that. A tank with a teddy bear heart."

*Jamie continues to drive down the road and keeping the conversation light with Con. Till finally they get to the restront.*

*Misty cant help but laugh as Carson and herself head out the door and to the car.*

"Your such a suck up you know that!"

*Geting into the car and situated they finally makes there way out of the parking lot and head for town. Misty keeps the conversation light with Carson as her nerves run high.

After about 20 minutes of driving Misty and Carson finally pull into the restrong parking lot. Befor geting out of the car Misty lets out a sigh and just sits for a moment. She was nervouse and dident know why. It had been so long since she spend time with her brother.

Finally geting out Misty waits for Carson taking his hand and making there way inside. Scaning the room Misty see her brother as he stand.

Keeping his eyes out the window Frankie waits for Misty to show up. He had called her late lastnight and asked if she wanted to get together. He dident think Misty would agree after what happend yesterday but was happy she did. Seeing his sister pull in and Carson with her he smiles. Frankie wanted to know this name that had tamed his sister. As they both enter he stands and waves.

Misty walks up to her brother and gives him a strong embracee.*

"Its good seeing you again Frank."

*Frankie smiles and returns the hug.*

"Its been to long little Sis."

*Misty smiles as she pulls away from Frankie and turns back to Carson. Taking his hand.*

"Frank you remeber from yesterday my boyfriend Carson. I hope you dont mind I invited him alot to spend lunch with us."

*Frankie exstends his hand to Carson a plesent smile on his face.*

"Of course I remember him. Good to see you again Carson and please call me Frankie. I have told my sister that a million time and only half the time she listens to me. Please come sit, and we can enjoy lunch together."

Truth

Jason can suddenly feel a new kind of tension between him and Katie, and he hates it. Though she hides it, he knows good and well that his time with his “friend” the evening before had bothered Katie on some level. Why couldn’t things just be normal? It bothered him that the past was still bogging him down, and it bothered him that Katie was bothered too. This was ridiculous.

Her words of apology cause Jason to roll his eyes. “Katie, stop it,” he directs. “I’m just being a grouch. Quit walking on eggshells or you’re just going to make things worse.”

He gestures to one of his chairs for her to sit. “I didn’t want to do any work now anyway after getting a tongue-lashing from two people already this morning. It was my own fault though. I think I ought to go home and come back to start all over again.”

Jason sighs, his weariness showing through his sarcasm. Searching Katie’s face for a moment, he shakes his head. He knows she overheard him and Reese, and though knowing there is no need to explain, for some reason he wants to. Even if Katie was simply a friend now, he doesn’t want any of his friends having the wrong impression. A simple statement would suffice. “Guess maybe I didn’t sleep too good last night…Mike’s got a nice couch, but it isn’t the same. Next time we have a late night jam session, I’m taking coffee with me so I’m awake enough to drive myself home.”

He shrugs, reverting back to Katie’s apparent intention for being here. “Enough about why I’m a grouch…fire away…what’s on your mind?” His eyes catch hers. “And be honest.”


Con reaches an arm around Jamie as he receives her kiss, smiling as she draws away. “I think I’ve done just fine without Bret’s helpful information.” He ambles to the other side of the car, sliding in, unable to keep a yawn from escaping. “Mm, I don’t know where to go…though I could go for just about any place with a buffet right about now…I’m starving.”


Carson slaps on his baseball cap and gestures to the exit. “After you. I don’t care if it takes all afternoon. I’m feeling cooped up anyway.” He tosses her a wink. “Besides, any excuse to get away with you is a good one.”

Sorry

*Katie gives a startled jump as her eyes widen alittle as Jason's words slid out of his mouth. HE was overly uptight today. Feeling bad Katie looks down. She dident mean to bother him. Steping in alittle more Katie looks up at him searching his face.*

"I dident get a chanse to talk with you again yesterday, and by time things clamed down you left with your friend. I guess, I just wanted to talk to you alittle more about court and how you think everything will change around here."

*Katie lets out a soft sigh. She dident want to come out right and ask Jason about last night it was non of her never mind. They were only friends and weather Katie felt strange, or even hurt by the suddon surge of happyness this stranger was bringing Jason, she had no right to let those feelings show.*

"I guess I just wanted to talk to you little bit. See how your doing and everything. But if this is a bad time I certinly can come back later. I had forgoten you had come into work alittle bit later, and were alittle bit behind. I'm sorry."

*Katie manages to look Jason in the eye, and give a genuin smile, and a look of being sorry. It really hadent crossed her mind that Jason was probley trying to do work. She was so use to coming and going in Jason's office without it bothering. Old habits die hard.*

*Jamie rours in laughter at Bret and Con. It was always great watching the humor the guys had.*

"Awwww...Con, leave the poor guy alone. He's just trying to give you some helpful information."

*Jamie throws a wink at Bret as he turns to leave. Not geting out of the car but standing on the seat Jamie is alittle taller than Con. Leaning down her wraps her arms around him and plants a kiss on his lips. Than drawing away she looks Con in the eyes, she own refecting her love and affection.*

"I missed you. How about we get some grub. You pick the place today."

*Jamie keeps her arms around Con giving him another kiss for a moment. Than lets go slipping down in the drivers seat again*

*Misty giggles and toss the keys to Carson.*

"Oh I think I can manage to drive. As long as you dont distract me, though that might be hard for you. If your ready we can make out way out now. We just have to go into town a bit might take a little while."

Advice

Jason looks up from his desk to see Katie in his doorway. Hearing her question, he throws up his hands. “No, no bother. Just come barging in like everyone else – I don’t care about getting any work done this morning anymore anyway.”

Once the words are out of his mouth, he realizes just how snippy they are, and he’s hit with a pang of guilt. Taking a deep breath, he closes his eyes for a moment, regaining control.

“I’m sorry,” he speaks with a softer tone. “You never bother me, so come in. What’s up?”


As usual, the guys at the construction site great Jamie enthusiastically, though comments are tempered by the knowledge that Con would beat any guy to a pulp that acted inappropriately.

Bret laughs and shakes his head as he walks past, removing his leather gloves. “Tank’s around here somewhere. I think he and Dean were out scouting that new zone, but if he knew you were coming, he’ll be here.” He throws Jamie a wink. “In case you didn’t know it, he’s head over heels for you.”

“Hey! Quit getting distracted by the pretty onlooker!”

Bret turns to see Con coming towards them. “Speak of the devil…” He waves off Con. “I was just making sure no one else bothered her.”

“Uh-huh.” Con throws him a withering, but teasing look. “Right.” He grins at Jamie. “Sorry I’m late. Lost track of time.”

Bret tsks at him and shakes his head. “Rule number one – never use that excuse. It makes the ladies feel less important than whatever it was you were doing.”

Con fakes a stance ready to slap Bret upside the head. “Don’t you have anything better to do?”


“Mmmm, I think I like it when you’re feeling better.” Carson grins at Misty’s antics, pulling her in close for a kiss of his own. “You shouldn’t have told me though – there will be no stopping me now.” Another kiss lands on her lips.

Chuckling, Carson draws away and shrugs at her invitation. “Sure…I’ll come along if you like. You’ll have to drive though, I haven’t been able to go pick up that car from the lot yet.”

Letter

*Katie smiles back at Scott. Still feeling a bit akward about everything with Jason, and the strange feeling settling lunch with Scott would be good. But Katie wanted something differnt today, not the normal grab and go greasy food.*

"One o'clock, some place nice. Maybe that new greek restront in town. Or if you can think of a better place thats cool too."

*Katie smiles and stands leaning over to Scott with a few papers in hand giving him a kiss. Once Scott leave Katie cubicle she makes her way to Jason's office seeing Carson leave. Knockig than poking her head in the door.*

"J...am I bothering you?"

*Jamie pulls into the construction site about 12. Laying on her horn her hope up over the winshield as her car's top is down on such a nice day. She dident mind making a specicle of herself, and cirtinly dident mind picking up Con at work. Jamie Had gotten use to the hoots and hollars from the other guys now, and it dient bother her. Some of them she even called by there names knowing who they were. Griving a grin Jamie calls to a younger kid across the way alittile bit.*

"Hey Bret, You see Con around? He's late meeting me."

*Jamie taps her watching playfuly.*

*As Lockheart makes her way off the plane a shinny black limo is waiting for her. Rolling her eyes she sighs. Jake had gone out of his way again. Geting into the limo Lockheart new it wouldent be to long of a drive, so looking at more files would be useless. Opening her email again she reads over the one Reese sent her. A smile once again cross her face reading it. Reese really was a sweet man, and though she hadent been gone long Lockheart missed them all, already. Forming a new email she reply.*

Reese,
My flight back was good. It felt longer than when
I came out. Anyways I have leanded now and am making
my way back to the office. I fear to see the piles
of work waiting for me. But I wouldent mind, and would
do it again if I had the chanse. Geting to know you
all was great. Have a great day and talk to you again
soon. Dont hesatate to call. I'm always here for you.

-Angelica Lockheart
Atturny at Law

*As Misty comes up behind Carson she throws her arms around his neck and gives him a bit kiss on the cheek. Than drawing her head back she leans in again for another, repeating it over and over again till finally she draws back again a sausy grin on her face.*

"I told you I was going to smother you in kiss."

*Misty cant help but give Carson a couple hundred more. Before finally breaking free.*

"If you cant tell, I am feeling better today. I work up this morning with very little pain. Well if I move to fast I can still feel it but I can actully move without it hurting. Its great."

*Misty cant help the grin on her face and the shinning in her eye. Life had returned to them. After yesterdays court hearing, and than feeling great today Misty was happy.*

"So, I was going ot be meeting my brother for lunch today in about 15 or 20 min down town. I dident know if maybe you want to come with? I know everyone said what he did to Aerith but, I just cant see that as my brother. So I wanna at least give him a chanse. I thought maybe you would like to come and get to know him too."

Misconstrued

Scott can sense the apprehension in Katie relating to the overheard conversation, and tries not to focus on it. He smiles instead. "Well, I'd like to ask you out on a date, and I'm a tech guy, so if I qualify..." His smile widens. "You pick the time and place and I'll drive."


As Carson heads down the hall, he picks up on the loud conversation between Reese and Jason. Stopping, his eyes widen slightly. He hadn't thought much about Jason's absence before, but this sounded like he'd been doing a little bit more than assumed.

He sees Jason stalk by to his office, then emerge with Trooper, heading outside. Thinking for a moment, Carson meanders to his cubicle and waits for his younger friend to return. Within minutes, Jason is back, aiming for his office again. This time, Carson follows.

"Hey, Jason..."

Jason gets Trooper settled in his corner with a bowl of dog food before sitting down in his chair, not trying to hide his irritation. "What."

Carson leans on the doorway, not shutting the door. "Why?"

"Why what?" Jason keeps his eyes to his desk and work.

"You know what," Carson retorts. "What's gotten into you?"

"What do you mean?" Jason finally looks up. "I just had Reese breathing down my neck. Don't you start."

"Did you wake up on the wrong side of the bed this morning, or just plain the wrong bed?"

Jason's eyes widen at Carson's blunt statement. "Excuse me?"

"Look, you and I aren't best friends," Carson replies flatly. "But the least you can do is not head down the same road I did. Stop while you can before you pile on too many regrets."

Jason starts to frown. "Carson...have you been drinking again?"

Now it's Carson's turn to frown. "No, of course not. I'm not the one who was having a good time all night."

Again, Jason is taken aback by the bluntness. "Why don't you go back to work and leave me alone?"

"Why don't you just give people some straight answers for once?"

"I don't know why you're so fascinated by my conversation with Reese, but he had no right to question me like he did. What I do on my own time is none of his business."

"It is if it affects you and your work."

"It hasn't!"

"But will it?" Carson cocks his head. "You keep going down that path, I guarantee you that it will. I've been there, Jase...don't tell me I don't know."

"Carson, what are you talking about?!" Jason throws up his arms.

"Well don't make me paint a picture," Carson retorts. "I'm sure you have a fine memory of your own."

"What?"

The air becomes thick with confusion as Carson shakes his head. "Do you like playing dumb?"

"About what?!" Jason stands up, tired of this stupid argument. "I get here a few minutes late, I got Reese on top of me, and now you! Did I walk into the wrong office this morning or what?!"

"If I'd been out sleeping around, I'd expect to be questioned too!"

"Sleeping around?!"

"You admitted you were with Camryn all night."

"I did not!" Jason's eyes are wide, his voice raised. "Camryn convinced me to go out and get some ice cream. We sat, we talked, I took her back to her apartment!"

"Yeah..." Carson nods. "Exactly. I'm sure you know her apartment real well by now."

"Carson!" Jason slams his hand down on his desk. "I didn't even go in! I dropped her off. I was only a few miles from Mike's place and I didn't want to go home, and I wanted to let the guys know what had happened in court. So I drove out to his place. We had an impromptu jam session, I was too tired to ride home, so I slept on Mike's couch. I didn't get in 'til late this morning because I had to go home to shower and change. I must have just missed you!"

Carson blinks and is silent for a moment. "Uh-oh."

Jason crosses his arms, his eyes narrowing. "Yeah...ok, I get it...You and Reese both assumed I spent the night with Camryn, didn't you?"

"You didn't exactly elude to anything else."

"I can't believe you guys!"

"Well what would you have thought?!"

"I don't know!" Jason groans.

Carson shakes his head. "If that's all it was, why didn't you just say so?"

"I told you, it was none of Reese's business! I don't like being interrogated."

"If you would have talked, we could have avoided all of this!"

"But it wasn't my fault, now was it?"

Carson sighs, relenting. "No..." His tone lowers. "Probably not. So what's with the guilty conscience?"

"Well would you feel innocent for forgetting to call anyone last night and then getting in late from work?"

"So that's it then?" Carson is skeptical. "Nothing more? That really was it with Camryn?"

Jason's eyes float to the floor. "Yeah...that's it."

"Jason..."

He looks up again and shrugs. "I like her, alright. Forgive me for feeling strangely since I broke up with Katie. I'm human."

Carson gives a little sigh, a smile tweaking the corner of his mouth. "You're a piece of work, you know that?"

"Now what did I do?"

"Nothing...just keep your head on straight and get past the past before it eats you alive. And for crying out loud, next time something can be misconstrued, try to head it off before it gets that far."

"How about you just don't misconstrue what I say at all?"

Carson throws him a smirk. "We both know how to play this game too well, Jason. Chill out." Turning around he heads from Jason's office, a slight roll to his eyes. That had certainly gone well.

Jason sinks back down into his chair, leaning his head back and closing his eyes. This was not his morning... If this was a sign of how things were to go the rest of the day, he was in trouble. He'd felt good about his time with Camryn last night until he'd started getting interrogated about everything...what was wrong with going out for ice cream? Camryn was different...she'd gotten on his nerves at first, but getting to know her, her forwardness wasn't something Jason disliked, but rather ran with it, getting ample opportunities for some bantering. It was different, and got his mind off of other unpleasant things. And he really had just dropped her off at her apartment - he wouldn't have gone in anyway, but she hadn't even invited him - she wasn't that kind of girl.

As far as all night went, Jason had actually had somewhat of a good time with the band...for the first time since he'd been back, he'd been relaxed enough just to play. He really had been too tired to ride home, and he had quickly taken Mike up on his offer to spend the night. Waking up this morning, Jason had realized he hadn't called anyone, so the guilt had started...he'd known good and well that he'd be questioned, but still Reese's interrogation had just rubbed him the wrong way, making him upset and unwilling to tell about what had happened, no matter the assumptions that flew around. Maybe he'd been wrong for that...

Sighing, Jason opens his eyes back up and reaches down to switch on his computer. Getting past the past as Carson had said really would be a nice thing...but it was coming awfully slowly. "Fun" wasn't hardly a part of his vocabulary anymore and neither was a good night's sleep. Everything seemed a fight...a struggle...would it ever be over?


"Hey, Tank!"

Con looks up from the blueprints as his nickname is called. "Yeah?"

Dean comes up to him and takes off his hardhat to wipe his brow. "Got a call from Pat. He said to go ahead with the western zone this week if we can get started."

"Right."

"Hey, so you have fun on your day off yesterday?"

Con chuckles. "You might say that." He focuses back on the blueprints. "By the way, Jamie's swinging by here around noon, so I'll be gone over my lunch break. If you want to start measuring off for that site, we can do that now."

"Alright. Yeah. Come on."

feeling

*Katie smiles up at Scott. About to answer but stops as she hears talking, and than a bunch of feelings. Her eyes drift to Jason as she sorts through them. He was with Camryn last night, and from the feeling of it he had a good time. There was a bit of...happyness there. For a moment Katie feels a choke climb in her thourt. As something strange pass over her. Jason was happy thats good, but still something nagged on Katie. Something bothered her. A bit of sadness maybe, but she wasent sure what she was feeling. All she new is that it hurt. That bit in her heart left to Jason, hurt.

Turning back to Scott Katie musters a smile.*

"I dont have anything planed for lunch, unless that is a certin tech guy wants to ask me on a date."

*Lockheart continues to work receveing the email she reads it and smile. Shifting back to her paper work she reminds herself to reply to it later.*

Send

Reese gives a little sigh, but nods. "Yeah, I know you'd tell me. I just wanted to make sure. Thanks."

As he leaves, Scott turns his attention back to Katie, his eyes filled with question. Something just seemed...odd. "That's interesting...I'd worry, but I know you know there's nothing to worry about..." He shakes his head with a little grin. "It's an interesting scenario, I tell ya. So...what are you plans for lunch today?"


Carson throws Misty a sly glance before throwing an arm around her shoulders and planting a kiss on her lips as they walk. "Just don't enjoy it too much, or you might have to put this poor bloke in a looney bin."


Jason ambles onto the main floor, heading towards the hall. From the looks of things, he's showered and has clean clothes on, giving slight waves to those who great him. He's about ready to turn to his office, but Reese calls out to him. "Jason!"

He stops and turns around, calling back to his boss. "I gotta let Trooper out!"

"Let it wait a minute!"

Sighing, Jason goes to Reese out on the main floor. Their voice remain even, but they're within earshot of most people.

Reese looks at him with question. "Everything okay?"

"Yeah, why?"

"Well..." Reese cocks his head. "Carson said you didn't come home last night, and so we just wondered..."

Jason quirks an eyebrow, a smile playing at his lips. "I'm glad to know I've got so many people looking out for me."

"That wasn't my point. Where were you?"

Jason's smile fades into a frown. He wasn't used to people asking him where he'd been at night - it had seemed no one's business. "Look, I don't think it really matters."

"It does to me."

"Well that's my personal life, Reese. I'm here this morning, that's all you have to worry about."

"No, actually I worry about you too," Reese states flatly. "If no one else is gonna look out for you, I am. And you had me worried there for just as bit."

"Alright, fine." Jason shrugs. "I was with a friend. Happy?"

Reese's eyes narrow. "Can Camryn be trusted?"

Jason's looks at Reese with a bit more surprised, laced with irritation. "I think you can stop now."

"Look, it's my job, Jason. In this line or work, underground or not, I need to make sure security is still being kept."

"Well what do you think I did? Spill every top secret code to her or something?" Jason's irritation begins to build to a dull anger. "Quit digging, Reese!"

Reese is taken aback just a little. "If you stopped looking guilty, maybe I would."

Jason shakes his head, gritting his teeth. "Just let it drop. I'm here for the day, so just pile the work on and I'll get it done." Spinning on his heel, he stalks toward the hall. On his way, he spots Katie out of the corner of his eye. His emotions already exposed, he didn't try to hide them. He was irritated with Reese's questioning. There was some anger there. There was something that felt good tucked away, almost hidden. But in front of it was a strange sensation of guilt for something. A veil was there too, almost as if refusing to let something surface, waiting...testing...something new.

Keeping his route, Jason goes to his office to retrieve Trooper, then heads toward the exit to take the dog out.


Reese gets back to his office, just a tad frustrated. What was wrong with Jason? He could make assumptions that he really didn't want to... everything pointed in that direction...but Jason wouldn't do that...would he?

Shaking his head, Reese plops down, and sees he has a voice mail. Checking it, his heart sinks a little. He'd just missed Lockheart...she was already gone...probably hadn't even received the flowers. Hanging up, he just sits and thinks for several moments. For some reason, the thought of Lockheart not being involved with TJY bothered him. But he couldn't pinpoint why he felt that way, so he tried to dismiss it. Lockheart had her own practice in California...it was her life...if he was her, he wouldn't want to just pack up and come to Nevada just because of one case either. It had been a silly notion.

Deciding he still wanted to send his thanks though, Reese opts to go to the computer instead of the phone this time, opening his email.
Just wanted to say thanks again. Got your message. Hope your flight back is smooth. We all appreciated your hard work. Don't stay a stranger...
Reese stops typing and shakes his head. What was he thinking? He backspaces.
Take care...
No, that didn't sound right. He backspaces again, giving an inward groan at himself.
Got your message. Hope your flight back is smooth. We all appreciate you and your work. Thanks again for everything. Will keep in touch.
Rolling his eyes, Reese hits "send."

Gone

*Katie looks away from her computer screen and looks up at Scott. Her own eyes seemed alittle brighter. Weaghts removed, and freedome now rained proving alittle less tress.*

"Heya Scotty. You look alittle less tired today. Thats a good thing."

*Misty gives alittle jump receveing the swat from Carson a grin on her face as he pass her. Throwing him a killer look.*

"You know I dont choose to be this goodlooking it just happens. And who said I dont like seeing you crazy?"

*Misty cant help but shakes her head as a few eyes turn to look at her and what she just said. Giving them a thumbs up she continues to walk ahead with Carson.*

*Katie looks up at Reese as he asks about Jason. Giving a little shrug Katie shakes her head.*

"No I dident feel anything last night. Nothing bad anyways. Everything was calm and peacful, a bit of good feelins here and there. My guess would be Jason was out just gaving a good time with freedome. Trust me if it wasent you would of been one of the first to know."

*Katie looks back up at Reese and than Wyatt a bit of worry now entered her veins. Jason he been last seen with Camryn. Katie dident think much about it lastnight but now Katie's mind started to wonder. A strange feeling moved inside of her, almost like a stab to the stomach. Katie trys to push the feeling away. She didet know anything of what was going on and she would rather not start assmuing. But the ping was still there.*

*Lockhearts room stays quiet and empty. The bed neatly made and all signs of someone staying there gone. Money left on her dresser.

Lockheart waiting in the terminal her phone pressed to her ear.*

"Jake...calm down I am on my way back now. My plane leaves in a half hour. Ok...ya send me the reports to my laptop and I will look them over on the plane. Ok Jake...ok...see ya than."

*Lockheart hangs up the phone and lets out a sigh. She dident want to be going back so soon but a case that she had been working on for a while took a turn for the worse and she had to. Taking her phone again Lockheart dials Reese' number only to receve his voice mail.*

"HI Reese, Its Lockheart. I know I said I was going to be staying around for a for a few days but there is an emergncy back at my company in Cali with a case that too a turn for the worst so I had to leave early this morning. I'm at the air port now and the plane takes off in a half hour. If you need me please feel free to call any time of day. My number is 567-460-8934. You can my cell already and my faxe is 567-2391. Take care and Hope to talk to you soon. Good Luck!"

*Lockheart hangs up the phone and stands geting ready to bored the plane. For a moment she stops and turns. Something told her to stay, something wanted her to stay, but now it wasent her fear holding her it was the face she HAD to go. Jack was her Sr. partner she couldent let him high and dry. Lockheart gets on the plane and finds her seat. Flipping open her laptop she receves the files Jake had sent her and gets lost in her work.*

Note

Con returns a bear hug to Katie. "See you tomorrow, Kat." He chuckles at her teasing. "I promise I won't be mean...mostly." He throws Jamie a glance before slinging an arm around her. "Alright, you.... home."

Scott grins as he heads out the door with Katie. "I'm alright. But let me tell you, as soon as I get home, it's crashing time."


Reese stands on the sidewalk for a moment, his hands in his pockets as he watches Lockheart's taillights disappear. He heaves a sigh...he's not sure why he felt disappointment, but that's what it felt like. Lockheart had done a lot for TJY, and he was more than grateful. But apparently she was set on going back to California. Or had she not understood he was asking her to stay?

Shrugging, Reese heads back to his own car. He had one more thing on his list to do...one last effort maybe, but after that, it was up to her.

"Dad, you okay?"

Wyatt and Aerith head toward his jeep, Wyatt glancing to his father.

Reese nods. "Yeah, why?"

"You just looked a bit spaced out."

Reese chuckles. "Guess I'm just tired. Goodnight, you two."

Wyatt nods his goodnight and keeps on to his jeep. He takes Aerith for a quick stop to her grandmothers before going on to Jamie's where Con is just pulling away.


The night seems all too short for those exhausted, but the morning insists on coming. Lighter spirits seem to help, though, and everyone seems to get to TJY a little earlier than normal.


"Morning, sunshine." Scott leans on Katie's cubicle, his eyes much brighter than the evening before, a smile playing at his mouth.


Reese glances across the main floor, then wanders down the hall, knocking on Jason's office, then entering. Frowning, he turns back around, glancing at his watch. He spots Carson. "Hey, Jason coming in?"

Carson shrugs. "I don't know. Haven't seen him."

"He wasn't up by the time you left?"

"He didn't come home last night."

Reese's eyes widen. "What?"

Carson shrugs again. "I'm not his keeper. He didn't come home. Figured he was out and about or something."

Reese shakes his head and aims back for the main floor.

Carson takes his route back down the hall towards the restroom, spying Misty. "Hey." He takes his rolled up papers and swats her bottom as he passes her in the hall. "Don't you know better than to look so pretty on a morning like this? You could drive a man crazy."


"Katie?" Reese approaches her cubicle, seeing her and Scott. "Sorry to interrupt. You didn't feel anything last night about Jason or anything, did you?"

Scott frowns. "What's up?"

"Carson said he didn't go home last night."

Scott's eyebrow quirks. "Odd."

"Well when was the last time anyone saw him?"

"He left Mom and Pop's with Camryn last night," Scott recalls. "That's all I know."

"I just want to make sure he wasn't in any trouble." Reese looks to Katie again with question.


"Room service!" A woman knocks on Lockheart's hotel door. A bright bouquet of flowers is in her hand with a note. Thanks for all your hard work. We appreciate you, and all would be thrilled if you reconsidered staying in Nevada.

Run away

*Katie studys the new comer for a moment. Give a friendly smile Katie nods.*

"Nice to meet you, if Jason is to much of a jerk for you just tell one of us and we will wack him for you. "

*Katies gives a grin at her comment trying to get everyones mood light again.*

*Misty looks to Carson, and shakes her head alittle bit.*

"I...I dont know.I've waited to see my brother for a long time, He was my best friend growing up and now this. I just dont understand he'd never hurt a fly. I...just dont know. I guess I'm just confused. I'll just talk to him later and see whats going on.*

*Misty trys to give Carson her best grin than grabs a slice of pizza. She dident want him to worry about her more than he already did.*

*The night draws on and the fun continues as everyone stays light. Today was to much of a good day to stay down for to long.

Katie smiles at Jason and Camryn as they head out.*

"See ya tomarrow J. Nice to meet you again Camryn."

*Katie's eyes follow them out as they leave. A strange feeling pinged inside of her. Trying to push it away she smiles at Scott seeing the tired look in his eye.*

"I think I should be driving you home. You look exsausted Hun. Like your going to fall asleep any minute. If you think you will be ok than yes. If not I'll drive."

*Katie stands waiting for Scott, heading over to Con she gives him a big hug.*

"Night Big Brother. Dont be to mean to that girlfriend of you."

*Katie smiles and throws a wink at Jamie before heading to the door.*

*As Lockheart heads outside with Reese feeling the cool breeze on her face. It was nice out, warm but there was a nice coolness about.

Arriving to the car Lockheart stops and looks up at Reese. He called her by her first name again. The wheels in her head start to turn. Was there more to this invitation than simply stated? Searching Reeses eyes she looks for answers but comes back with non. Lockheart is quiet for a long moment before speaking again.*

"I guess you guys will be needing a good lawyer. I will certinly leave my number with you so if you guys ever need me again you are more than welcome to call. I'm more than happy to be on call for TJY 24 hours. I could even come out time from time to see how things are."

*Lockheart smiles back at Reese opening her car door. Before she gets in she turns again. an undefined look in her eyes.*

"I'll call you some time tomarrow and I'll give you my number and fax of my office. Thanks for everything Reese."

*Lockheart gets into her car slowly driving away she gives a small wave to Reese. As she finally is driving down the road twords the hotel Lockheart lets out a frustrated sigh. She new what Reese was asking, he wanted her to stay. But insted of saying yes she twisted her words to make him think she dident think he was asking her to stay. What was she running away from now, She was so strong in the court room, and with her cases but when it came to her own personaly life everything was crazy and confused. Lockheart dident even know why she felt this strange erg to run. Its not like Reese had said Angelica let get together and date. He was just offering her a job. Lockheart rolls her eyes at herself frustrated continuing to make her way for the hotel.*

Evening closes

Jason gives Katie a short look of gratefulness, knowing that she had read and understood him. He couldn't do that with anyone else.

As Misty speaks to him, he nods. "Thanks, and again...I'm sorry."

Wyatt gives Aerith's hand a squeeze, knowing she's trying her best to be calm and move on. "It's alright," he whispers. "We'll get this whole thing straightened out. But for tonight, let's both just try to have some fun."

With the pizza arriving, Jason glances around, and sees that there are a lot of people looking at him with question as to who this new young woman was. He clears his throat a bit awkwardly. "Um, well...bad timing, but this is my..." Jason hesitates for just a moment. He hardly knew Camryn. He'd seen her only a few times now and barely knew anything about her, other than she seemed nice, was out going, and he knew where she worked. "...acquaintance, Camryn Lane."

Sensing his friend's awkwardness, Con is the first to call out his greeting from the table. "Hey, Camryn. I hope this rowdy bunch doesn't scare you too much."

Camryn laughs. "Hardly. You all look too nice to be scary."

Con grins. "Would you tell my girlfriend that?" He thumbs towards Jamie. "She doesn't think I'm being nice."

"Oooh." Camryn gives him a sly look. "You look like the kind of man who can handle yourself quite well without my help."

Several people around the table laugh as they begin to relax. "Yeah, tanks don't usually need much help," Ty quips.

"Heeey." Con shoots him a mock annoyed glance.

Camryn giggles. "Well it's nice to meet y'all. I didn't mean to barge in on your party."

"You didn't," Laura responds, sensing this young woman's honesty. "Just don't be afraid to join in or defend yourself if these guys get too overbearing for you."

Jason quirks an eyebrow. "For some reason, I don't think that will be a problem."

Camryn elbows him.

"Hey, I meant it in the nicest way," Jason defends.

"Right."

"Come on." Jason heads back down to his end of the table with Camryn behind.


Scott eyes them as they go to the other end. "I've seen her somewhere," he comments, mostly to himself. "But I can't put my finger on it."


As the chatter around the table picks up again, though this time without a war as everyone starts digging into the pizza, Carson leans closer to Misty. He was confused about what had just happened...he knew she had a brother, but didn't know details, nor did he understand how she and Aerith knew each other. But those seemed unimportant details at the moment. The look on Misty's face worried him. "Hey...you alright?"


Despite the brief and tense interruption, the evening proceeds as lighthearted as possible with much talk, much laughter, and much teasing and banter between almost everyone. Scott and Jim get into it over something to do with cars, Con relentlessly picks on Laura, though she seeks protection from Nate, and Wyatt joins in, constantly keeping one eye on Aerith.


"...and then I..." Camryn stops as her cellphone in her purse starts to ring. "Oh, hang on." Standing up, she goes to the corner where there's less noise to take the call.

Jason takes another swig of his soda and looks up just in time to catch a flying ball of napkin, hurled from Rick. "What?"

"You're too quiet!" Rick calls down to him.

Jason shakes his head. "Maybe you're too loud!"

As Camryn comes to sit down again, he diverts his attention back to her and the annoyed look on her face. "What's wrong?"

"Oh, that was Sandi. She dropped me off down here and was going to do some shopping, and come back by and pick me, up. However..." Camryn rolls her eyes. "She got carried away, basically forgot I was here, and now she's at the movies with her boyfriend."

"So you're stranded."

"Yeah, pretty much." Camryn chuckles. "But that's ok. It's a long walk, but I do it all the time."

"In the dark?"

"Well, no, but..."

Jason looks at her with his own annoyance, remembering Frankie. "This town is nice, but it has its creeps. Let me give you a ride home."

Camryn lifts an eyebrow. "Well aren't we being quite the gentleman tonight."

"Is that a no?"

"It's a maybe. What's with you being so nice?"

"I told you I had a good day."

"Mm, you ought to have more of them then."

"I wouldn't mind that." Jason rolls his eyes. "If you're too scared to go with me on my bike, then I'll arrange for someone else here to take you home."

Camryn's eyes light up. "You've got your bike here?"

"Yes."

"Now how on earth could I pass that up? You got an extra helmet?"

"Yep."

Camryn bites her lip, then nods. "Okay."

"That took long enough." Jason looks around, noting that people were beginning to get full, the pizza almost gone.

Camryn follows his gaze. "I'm ready any time."

"Well...let's go then before it gets too late then." Jason stands up and grabs his leather jacket off his chair, handing it to her. "You're wearing this though. Safety for my passengers comes before mine."

Camryn's eyes narrow for just a moment, a smile playing at her lips before she takes his jacket. "Alright."

Jason moves down the table, waving to some of the others. "Good night, guys." Seeing Scott, he gives him a nod. "Scott." His eyes move to Katie and he lets his gratefulness out again through his eyes and feelings. "See you tomorrow."

The table bids him goodnight, and he heads out with Camryn. A few minutes later, his bike can be heard starting and revving down the street.

His was the first exit of many, as the others begin to relent to giving up for the night. Everyone was exhausted, especially those who had been on a flight that morning. Scott's own eyes showed his sheer exhaustion, still running on the little sleep he'd gotten on the plane. It was hard to believe that just that morning they'd been in Texas. It seemed a lifetime ago.
He turns to Katie, offering her a smile. "Can I take you home?"


As the group begins filing out, everyone hollering to Herb and Mable their thanks, Reese holds the door open for Lockheart and steps out onto the sidewalk with her, taking in a deep breath of the evening air. The sun was just sinking below the horizon.

He walks her slowly to her car, his hands in his pockets, deep in thought. Arriving at the vehicle, he stops her. "Angelica..." He pauses, looking at her for a moment. "A lot is going to be changing around TJY now...I think it will be good in the end, but I imagine staff will shift a bit, and the process will be a bit painful at times. Regardless though, Sheriff Brown leaves most of the authority to me in this and that includes who we hire, etcetera." He pauses again. "We could use a good lawyer on the team..."

Continue

*Katie's eyes widen a bit feeling Jason's emotions and seeing through his eyes. Giving a slight nod Katie sits back down.*

"I new there had to be a good reson J, I just dident know what it was."

*Looking past Wyatt Aerith steps forward twords Misty,

Seeing Aerith Misty stands again. It had been sometime but Aerith still almost looked the same as always now that it was pointed out. Hope lingers in Misty's voice. She had always known her brother to be rought and quite forward with wemon but never would he hurt anyone.*

"Aerith...Its been a long time. Is it really true my brother tryed to hurt you?"

*Aerith's face drops alittle bit. She hated to be the one to tell Misty. She new how close her brother and were.*

"I'm sorry Misty, I never saw the look in your brother eye like I did the other night. I really am sorry we had to remeat this way."

*Misty's heart sank. Its just dident make any sence. Could her brother really have changed that much? Siting back down Misty looks to Jason and gives alittle nod. Jason was her friend and she felt foolish for doubting he had a good reason.*

"I'm sorry Hotshot. Please stay with you friend and eat."

*For a moment Katie looks up again seeing Camryn. She dident reconize who she was but could guess she was a friend of Jason. Something rummbles in Katie tummy but she shutgs it off as hunger.

Before anything more can be said Mable and Herb both apear with 2 Pizzas each. Giving a smile Mable refills drinks.*

"Dig in guys. We have more if you want it."

*Misty sits lost in though not sure what to think. So many things were running wild in her mind.

Aerith finally sits down next to Wyatt again. Her nervs calming, but she still felt horrable. Trying to get herself back into better spirits she smiles at Wyatt. Trying to consintrate on him.*

Offered

Jason feels badly for Misty, and knows she’s upset with him now, but just having Frankie leave was a relief as his blood begins to simmer down.

Receiving Katie’s question, he stares her in the eye for a moment, not holding his emotions back from her. There was anger against Frankie, there was frustration for injustice, there was fear from seeing someone hurt. He hadn’t acted on a whim just now – his actions had been justified whether anyone saw it or not.

Finally giving in, Jason shakes his head. He looks past Katie to Misty. “With all due respect, Misty, I’m sorry, but your brother was caught in some regrettable actions against Aerith. If Wyatt and I hadn’t come along the other day…” Jason stops, shifting his eyes towards Aerith, trying to respect her as well. “Let’s just say that I’m glad Wyatt and I were there.”

Wyatt looks between Aerith and Misty, now realizing that they must have known each other…Misty was the sister Aerith had mentioned. This was awkward, to say the least. “I’m sorry, Misty.”

Camryn is totally confused by all of this, and beginning to feel that it was her time to exit. Standing up, she comes up to Jason, speaking quietly. “Maybe I should leave now…I think you’ve got more important things to worry about.”

Not even thinking, Jason puts a hand to her arm. “No…stay…I offered you dinner and I’m not backing out….” He looks back to the others and Misty, then to Camryn again. “…whether it’s here or somewhere else.”

Question

*Frankie stratens alittle, still confused by everything that went on. Seeing the pain in his sisters face, and glancing around the room to the others that were growing uneasy. Laying a hand on her shoulder he nods.*

"Its ok Sis. I can see I am not welcomed and I dont want to cause any problems for you. I'll be in touch again. Maybe we can get together for something to eat."

*Frankie smiles at Misty as the look in his eye starts to waver. Throwing a glair at Jason, Frankie a pat to his sisters shoulder and than turns making his way out of the restront.

Misty watches as her brother leaves. It had been so long since she last saw him and now, before she could even spent time with him he was gone. Spinning around Misty glairs at Jason.*

"What is wrong with you? Why did you do that?"

*Misty cross her arms across her chest and heads back to the table to sit down a bit disapointed.

Aerith relaxes a bit as Frankie leaves, though she cant help but feel bad for Misty. She had caused her not to have a good reunin with her brother. A bit of Aerith feelt horrable.

Katie stands and looks to Jason. Knowing the question was on everyones mind. Keeping her voice calm and cool she speaks.*

"Jason, whats going on? Whats wrong?"

Warning

Wyatt tries to relay comfort to Aerith through his grip on her hand, and just keeps her where she is at a distance, not wanting to stay, but not wanting to leave.

Anger starts to boil within Jason as his emotions surface. Images flash in his mind of seeing Frankie in the parking lot with Aerith. Frankie looked innocent now, but Jason had been the one dodging flying fists…Jason had been the one to see the fear and tears on Aerith’s face. No…Frankie was not welcome here, not by him.

Sensing hostility, the others at the table, including Reese begin to grow uneasy. What was going on?

Jason’s eyes narrow into an angry glare. He has nothing against Misty, but his look is passed on to her anyway. “I don’t care if he’s your brother,” he hisses. “He’s not staying.”

Turning back to Frankie, and looking down on him, he warns him again. “Last chance, Frankie. Get out, or I’m taking you out myself.”

Confustion

*As the other offer there greetings to Frankie one by one, not having a clue to anything Aerith steps back with Wyatt her finger sightly griping his more, as her hand shakes alittle bit. Aerith dident know what to think, or what to do.

Turing his head to Reese Frankie and give a grin.*

"Its good to see you again Uncel Reese."

*Than turns back to Carson giving his hand a shake back. He new who Carson was from when he had see him and his sister together in England.*

"Your must be Carson the one taking care of this little spitfire. Its a pleaseure to meet you."

*Frankie looks down at Jason, his eyes not giving much emotion, other than a bit of confustion. Opening his mouth to say something Misty intarupts. a bit of irratation in her voice.*

"Of corse there is room for him here, I just said he was my brother. Whats gotin into you Jason?"

*Misty keeps her smile held as she looks at Jason. What was wrong with him? Why was he acting like this.

As Kaie listens on she can feel a sence of hostility. A rising emotion in Jason. Something wasent right.*

Shock

Reese cocks his head as he looks at Lockheart, wondering if he was reading her eyes correctly. “Would you ever consider…” As tension suddenly rises in the room, his words trail off and he looks up to see what’s going on.

Wyatt’s hand wraps around Aerith’s protectively as his eyes bare down on Frankie.

As Misty rushes forward, both Jason and Wyatt exchange quick glances, their guards not down for an instant. Carson watches in confusion for a moment, never having seen this man before.

The announcement that Frankie is Misty’s brother widens the eyes of both Wyatt and Jason. While the others in the room start to smile and offer greetings, the two remain tense.

Wyatt’s grip on Aerith’s hand tightens and he backs her up several steps to gain more distance between them and Frankie. Misty’s brother? His own cousin? He’d heard that Frank had been in and out of prison, and never in his wildest dreams had he connected the dots to arrive at the right conclusion. Now that he thought about it, he felt stupid for not realizing this in the first place. But now what…Frankie was out, and was here…and apparently Misty had no clue as to what a monster he could be.

Carson stands up and offers his hand to Frankie. “Nice to meet you.”

Reese’ eyes widen as he realizes just who this is. “Well Frank…it’s…this is a surprise.”

Others in the room wave their hellos. Misty was their friend, and if she was enthusiastic about this newcomer, they had no reason not to be.

Jason doesn’t know what to do. He just stands in shock for a moment. Stepping forward, then back again, his nervousness rising. Everyone around him was clueless. He catches Wyatt’s eye again, but receives no help in knowing what to do. Swallowing hard, he makes a decision and steps forward again, this time, all the way up to Frankie. “I think you need to leave.” His tone is low and cool. “There’s no room for you here.”