Keep talking

*As Kyle looks into Misty's eyes she cant help but search back. How she was feeling, she wasent to sure. The kiss felt good, and it felt like it ment more to her, but was it really? Or was it just fun to Kyle?

Searching his eyes more Misty can see the look, the look that said behind those eyes there was more, but it wasent going to be set free.

Misty's own feeling bubbled inside of her. Kyle, the last person she exspected, what turn out as a fun time to distract her mind had to her turned into something more. It was unexspected, but it was nice. Misty really enjoyed how Kyle made her feel, and she liked that maybe there would be more attached to it. Just something about him, had broken down those walls and let someone in again.

As Kyle pulls her next to him Misty lays a hand on his chest and her head aganst his shoulder. Her eyes searching behond the water, watching the birds fly and taking in the sounds around her silence being her best friend for a moment.

As the moments pass Misty finally lets out a content sigh and smiles the words coming from her lips soft.*

"This place, you, are amazing Kyle. Unexspectingly you came in as a friend and you made my heart sore in such a short time. You've opened my eyes, whiped away my pain."

*Misty is quiet for a moment, leting her thoughs collect as her words shake a little. She's never exspessed her feels this in depth before. Not even with Carson, it was always hi, kiss snuggle, bye. Having to voice how she felt was differnt, but she dident mind. Only hoping she was using he right words, and it was coming across ok.*

"...You've showed me something differnt Kyle, you have helped open my eyes to a feeling that was differnt from any other, and I like the feeling. I like it alot."

*Misty is silent again and she smiles and looks up at Kyle. Leaning over Misty leans up and plants a small kiss on Kyle's lips before withdrawing once again and leaning her head again on Kyle's shoulder.*

"I respect you alot Kyle, the way your free, how you still know how to have fun yet be grown up at the same time. You're an amazing person Kyle Mitts, and I am happy to have spent this time with you."

*As Misty's mouth moves she almost feels like she has not controll over what she is saying. Never had she exspressed herself like this to anyone, let alone have someone who sat long enough to listen without rolling there eyes.*

"I've come to learn I like you alot Kyle. More than I had intended myself after being hurt. But it happend, and I cant help how I feel. But that being said I dont know how you feel. And if you dont feel the same as I do please dont feel bad about it. Just tell me up front, and that will be ok. Than I will hold these presuse memories close to my heart like the shell you gave me.

But if you do feel the same, dont hide. Like the shell life if delacit, and its to short to hide behind our fears."

Questions

There are moments in life that impact us with such a delicate force that we wish it never to end. And though it does end, for time is in control, the moment is burned into our minds and hearts to not only be remembered, but cherished forever. Sometimes these moments are but of enjoyment and bliss...other times they are accompanied with realizations that are so strong we fear the very thought of it.

Kyle's fingers gently cradle the back of Misty's head, his other hand remaining locked with hers, the softness of her touch a contrast to his rough palm. Absorbed in the moment, he can sense Misty's willingness let it last. The passion of his kiss increases, proving what was in his heart the only way he knew how, as the exchange deepens. The only witnesses were the sky and the water below, sparkling in the sun...


Drawing away feels like letting go of a precious gift, and Kyle rests his forehead on Misty's once again, this time his eyes open to search her own. He knew he enjoyed this experience, and could tell that she did too. But what did it mean? What would happen now?

Getting this close to her had been unintentional. His gut reaction is to pull away and apologize. But his arms don't want to cooperate as he remains with her. He looks into those eyes...searching...seeking for the answers to his questions. He had stepped over a line he had drawn himself a long time ago, and now on the other side, he had no idea what to do. This wasn't supposed to happen this way...this relationship wasn't supposed to evolve like this... But it had...and once tasted, he didn't want to let it go.

So much confusion lies behind his eyes as he finally sits up straighter, moving his hand to tuck Misty's hair behind her ear. But he allows a quirky smile to mask it, a new twinkle coming to his gaze. One who knew Kyle would recognize the silly remark that was dying to come out, but this time he couldn't. All he could do was grin, while deep down, he only hoped that this had not been a mistake.

Letting out a contented sigh, Kyle eventually sits back against the adjoining rock, pulling Misty next to him, his arm around her shoulders as they sit in perfect view of the lake. He didn't know what she was thinking...what she was feeling...but though he could not speak, he knew she would when she wanted to.


Dani's shoulders drop as she reads her email. She'd heard from Angelica a while back, giving her at least a start in the right direction to find Carson. Since then she'd had a little more luck in tracing him, finding out bits and pieces. But now...now she had the whole story in front of her.

She'd been able to find Mike Reese's contact information through TJY and had inquired about what had happened with Carson, explaining who she was and why she was asking. His response informed her of how Carson had not gone to jail, though had lost his job over the illegal fighting. After that, he had job hopped, though had resided at the same apartment.

That part hurt the most, knowing that Dani had sent letters to the right address, and had heard nothing. Apparently Carson had gone through several jobs, finally landing at a little restaurant. Reese had explained that he wasn't a hundred percent sure about what had happened after that, but from what he had heard through his son, Carson had cheated on Misty, broken up with her, moved in with someone else and had gotten involved in some kind of gambling. The very latest Reese had heard though, was that something had gone sour, Carson left that group of people, lost his place to live, and just a couple days ago had totaled his car in an accident. Though fine, apparently he was finding a place to stay at the restaurant where he worked.

Dani leans back in her couch, closing her laptop. Carson was alive...though maybe not well by the sounds of things, he sounded perfectly capable of contacting her. Why had he not?

A tear rolls down the side of her face. Her reunion with her brother had been a shock, but had been so good...she had missed him so very much. And he had promised her that he would be in touch from then on. He'd promised to contact her. She'd seen sincerity in his eyes and had truly believed that he really would be in contact with her. But he hadn't...and all she could think now, was that his emotions had been less than genuine. Perhaps his story had been true, but maybe his hugs and reassurance hadn't really been from his heart...maybe it had just been more of a job to him.

Savering the moment

*As Misty feels Kyle's lips brush aganst her own her heart gives a jump sending a new sensation through her. Her mind races on more than one thing, the feels she felt were differnt but good.

As Kyle leans his head agast her own Misty leans in a bit as well, a smile on her lips, and leting out a content sigh. Her one hand still interlocked with his while her other was no around him and resting on his back.

Feeling Kyle's lips finding her again Misty's eyes close as she takes in the sweetness and gives back the passion she felt. How happy she was to be able to shair this moment with Kyle, how honored she was that he would shair this with her, and that she was able to give back. The softness of the kiss was differnt but it made it that much more enjoyable for Misty. Differnt was good, and savering the moment was even better.

Letting the sounds from the lake, and the nature around them wash over her Misty lets the exstain continue not ready to break it just yet. When life had seemed to be lost, the unexspected had come helping set her heart free from the pain that held it down. Kyle Mitts was a blessing, and Misty was thankful.*

heart

Feeling Misty this close is different… but Kyle wouldn’t dream of pushing her away. His heart races, raising the speed of his pulse. The surroundings were forgotten. He knew he had permission…

Closing the gap between them, Kyle tilts his head, his eyes closing as his lips brush against Misty’s. The sensation that had filled him the other night was back, but this time there was no night to hide it.

Leaning his forehead against hers, his hand still brushes her cheek softly, and he hesitates for a moment before caution is once again forgotten. His lips meet hers again, this time to stay, his hand moving from her face to the back of her head. His fingers tighten a little around her hand as his heart is revealed through the kiss he offers with a passion he’s so expertly hidden from others.

The exchange was slow and sweet, every moment savored as a gift life had given.

Answer

*As the silence continues around Misty and Kyle, she cant help but be a little thankful for it. So many times words have gotten in the way, so many times the wrong thing has been said at the wrong moment. But not now, the silence rained and it was welcomed. The soft sound of the water crashing on the rocks below, the call of the birds, and even the sound of a boat blowing its whistle in the distince was nice to hear.

Misty's eyes stay locked with Kyle's as his hand reaches up to her face. The soft gentilness, the warmth is offered, it felt good. Misty can feel herself leaning her head into his hand as if giving her silent ok.

Closing her eyes Misty can feel herself being draw into Kyle, moving closer and closer to him. Was this crazy, Misty wasn't sure, but she certinly new she dident hate it.

Opening her eyes once again she is inches from Kyle's face. Being close enough to feel his breath on her face she just looks into his eyes. Searching, not knowing if Kyle wanted this, if he would willing take another kiss Misty dident want to cross the line. So inches away Misty just searchs his eyes, looking for the answer to her question.*

Eyes

As Misty’s hand reaches his again, Kyle feels a tingle run up his arm. A strange sort of fear wants him to pull his hand away…wants him to retreat. But stronger is his desire to let his fingers intertwine with hers, the gentleness of her grasp something he’s never felt before

Finally raising his gaze again, he’s met with those same deep eyes that like to penetrate his own. Her words make him swallow hard, and he can feel a little bit of heat rising to his cheeks.

As the seconds tick by and Kyle keeps his sight on Misty, a million and one thoughts race through his mind…half of which are things he could say to her. But he can’t. For once, he must remain silent. But as he experiences this silence, it’s not to be feared, but rather embraced. It’s a serene silence, caressed by the sounds around them. Instead of words, their eyes talked, dancing together to a song new to both of their ears. A song new to both of their hearts.

Slowly pulling himself up to sit and lean back against another rock, Kyle’s one hand remains in Misty’s. He quietly searches her face for several moments, unsure of so many things, yet sure of the same amount.

Before he stops himself, his other hand has reached up to the side of Misty’s face, softly cradling her as his thumb runs along her cheek, mapping out the gentle curves. His eyes don’t move.

A new look

*Misty feels the shell in her hand as Kyle's wraps her fingers around it. It was hers to keep, Kyle was giving her something very special. Something she would treasure.

As Kyle's hand runs along Misty's fingers she looks down at it for a moment. Watching his soft touch, it was differnt from what she was use to, but in it there was something she life. Something that felt good and made her feel something differnt than ever before. This person sitting next to her she had become close to and liked spending time with had happend so fast yet it seemed, all played carfuly.

As Kyle quickly moves his hand away Misty looks away herself and down at the shell once again. Infinite in mystery was the beauty of this gift , and so was life, if no chanse was ever taken than how would there be so many wonderful things in the word.

Misty looks out to the water and whispers, but loud enough she can be hurd.*

“In the tomorrow without promises, I swear I’ll definitely return to the place where you’re standing. Dreams of the morrow hath the shattered soul, and so we take flight and live for the day."

*Looking up Misty closes her eyes for a moment taking in the smells and the sounds as she trys to clam her racing heart. Than closed her hand lightly around the shell she gently slips it into her pocket where she knows it will be safe. Than reaching out Misty takes Kyle's hand and interlocks her fingers with his. Looking up into his eyes, Misty's hold her own look. Maybe it was a little bit of fear of being rejected, or maybe it was fear of being accepted for the wrong reason but that looks was over weaghed by the look that was like non other. Whispering Misty keeps her eyes on Kyle as her heart races, and her hands only shake a little.*

"It's ok Kyle. I don't mind."

Hand

Kyle can’t help his smile at Misty’s reaction to his box of treasures. There was a long story behind this collection, but it was too detailed to try and communicate it all now.

As she takes the shell, he beams even more, watching her reactions…seeing her smile as the breeze played gently with her hair. He nods…yes, he’d found it here.

But when she hands back the shell, he slowly shakes his head. Still propped on one elbow, he takes his hand and he puts it on hers, curling her fingers back over the shell. It was hers to keep.

Catching her eyes, he just lets his own lock with hers. His gentle smile remains. The sunshine felt warm, overtaking any chilliness the breeze brought on, and its light caressed Misty’s face, outlining every curve.

Kyle swallows hard, realizing his hand is still around hers on the shell, but he doesn’t want to let go. Slowly, he lets his thumb move along her hand, feeling the softness of her skin.

But then he stops, checking himself. Several thoughts sink into his mind as unwanted distractions, but worthy ones. His gaze quietly drops, the motion of his hand ceasing as it slowly slips from hers again.

Strange Mystery

*As Kyle grabs Misty around the wast and put her up onto one of the rocks Misty lets out a squeel. Climbing, and climbing some more holding tight to Kyle's hand Misty smile remains. They higher they climb the more excitment runs through Misty.

Finally reaching the top Misty sits by the edge and lets her legs hand over the edge. Looking out at the water Misty takes in the sights. It was so peacful looking, it was so nice how honored she was to have had Kyle shair this with her.

Turning her head Misty watches as Kyle slides between the two rocks. Streaching her neck out Misty trys to see what he is doing though she is unable. As Kyle comes up and presents the box Misty's smile grows and her curosity intensifys as well. Scooting closer to Kyle Misty leans into a little bit to see what he had. Gazing into the box Misty's eyes widen and dazzle with amazment. What an amazing collection Kyle had indeed. As Kyle holds the one shell out to Misty she looks at it for a moment in amazment. The colors bouncing and runing off of it made it one of the most amazing things she had ever seen. Reaching out Misty runs her finger over the shell being even so gentil as if it might break till finally she takes it and holds it for a moment.*

"Oh Kyle...this is the most beautiful thing I have ever seen. The colors in it are amazing. Did you find this here?"

*Misty runs her other hand over the shell again as she stairs in aw at the shell again. Taking in her hand she holds it to Kyle giving it back before she broke it.*

"Thank you Kyle for shairing this with me."

*Misty's eyes meet Kyle's as her smile grows. Stairing into them Misty feels herself being drawn in, the the shell her held, Kyle's eyes had the same multi colors. The same lights that dance and held a strange mystery.*

Shell

Kyle's smile widens as Misty questions him, but he takes the necessary silence to his advantage and just pulls her along with him, without intention of stopping.

Finally reaching the large rocks, he has his sights set on the big flat one at the top, but to get up there takes getting up onto the first large rock first. Skidding to a halt in the sand, without even hesitating, Kyle grabs Misty around the waist. An expert from all the times with Jen, he swings Misty up into his arms and sets her up on the first rock so she can stand above him. Moving his frame quickly, he vaults himself up next to her and without missing a beat, takes her hand again so she can climb up the rest of the way with him.

The rocks are warm on their bare feet, and Kyle finally finds the spot he was looking for. Flopping down cross-legged, he pats the rock with his hand for Misty to sit too, and tries to catch his breath, his silent laugh almost making him cough.

Eventually settling down, he scans the lake from the little lookout point, sighing with content. The lake was his favorite location, and this was his favorite spot.

Suddenly his eyes widen, a quirky grin spreading and he rolls over onto his stomach, facing away from the lake, and half diving into a crevice between the rock they're sitting on, and the one behind it. Withdrawing his hands, he scoots back up again, presenting an old rusted tin box. Lifting the lid, he reveals a small stash of odd rocks and shells discovered on the beach. No one else ever came up here...no one had ever found his box.

Lying on his side to prop himself up with an elbow, facing Misty, he reaches in and pulls out an amazingly pretty shell for a freshwater lake. A silly grin on his lips, he holds it up in the light, then glance to Misty, reaching it over to her.

Thoughts

*As Misty walks along with Kyle her own smile never fades. Watching him try to convay his jokes, and banter through signs was humorus. Misty kept her loughter in untill she saw Kyle smiling as well to make sure she dident offent him.

Taking off her own shoes and socks Misty lets the sand move around her feet. The warmth was nice. Looking out to the water Misty just looks for a long moment as a certine sadness pass through her eyes for a moment. Memories fill her mind of days in the past. Coming back to the present Misty reverts her mind forcing herself to forget once again. No...she couldent let these memories come back, not yet she couldent let the offender to cause her anymore pain. She was moving on...moving on with her life. She couldent stand still.

As Kyle takes her hand Misty almost feels an electricl shock run through her. A strange feel comes over her but there is no time to dwell over the feeling as Kyle breaks into a sprint. As Misty runs along side to him her laughs and giggling echoing over the beach.*

"Kyle....Kyle were are we going? What are we doing?"

*Misty continues to following him not really caring about her question. Kyle could not tell her and she wouldent mind. Kyle was someone she new she could trust.*

Sand

Carson is grateful for Herb's never-ending understanding, and goes to make the call. It's not too much later that he's back again to help pick up the slack, though is quiet about what had happened. He didn't exactly want to think about how wonderfully he'd crashed and burned with this one. He wasn't used to apologizing anyway, let along for something like this, and getting hung up on just put salt in the wound. But...at least he'd done what he could...it relieved the guilt just a little bit, even if it didn't do anything at all for the situation.

Trying to get back to work, he does his best to distract his mind, even though it doesn't work very well. The evening and night were going to be long, spent here by himself.


"Mmm." Scott returns Katie's kiss and grins. "Ice cream sounds great. Frisbee sounds great. Time with you sounds the greatest." He leans up and places another kiss on her forehead. "Then let's say we get back to work so we can actually be done in time to do all this?"


Finding himself getting picked on with no way to audibly defend himself, Kyle goes off on several silent tangents, mouthing words only he knew the meaning off, his arms flailing and not getting anywhere. By the time he and Misty reach the lake, he's reverted to simply throwing her looks instead, letting his facial expressions do all the talking.

Getting out of the car, he steps closer to the beach and closes his eyes, holding his arms out to the side and taking a deep breath of the fresh air. This was his favorite place to go, and this time he was glad he was even alive to come at all.

Turning to Misty, he cocks his head to the water, gesturing for her to come with him. The walk is slow, down the path and into the sand. Closer to the water, Kyle stops and kicks off his shoes and socks, rolling up his jeans pantlegs. The breeze was just a little chilly, but he wasn't willing to put on a jacket over his t-shirt - the air felt too good.

Kicking at the sand a little bit, Kyle looks over at Misty again, his ever-present grin still there. One could tell that a smart remark or a silly comment was right on the tip of his tongue, and he opens his mouth for a moment before remembering he shouldn't. But by the time he'd get the point across any other way, the humor would be lost.

Just shaking his head and rolling his eyes, he glances down the beach a ways to where the larger rocks were. They were a bit away from where they were, but that had never stopped him in the past.

Acting quickly, he reaches out to grab Misty's hand and before she can hold him back, he's pulling her along with him as he sprints for the rocks. His bare feet leave prints in the wet sand by the water as he runs, not caring about the headache he had. Being alive was too thrilling to just sit around and stare at it.

Frisbee

*Herb is saprised when Carson said he had to leave for a moment, but understand once Carson explains a little bit. Giving a nod of his head he new why Carson had to do it and he was proud of him for it.*

"Take all the time you need."

*Herb turns back to his work and continues. There was a time, there was a season for everything and Herb could only hope Carson's was now. That Carson could turn into the man Herb new he was.

Moments later the order start coming in slow but picking up speed. Not minding Herb continues to get them out as fast as he can.*

*Misty can't help but laugh once again at Kyle's comment but than her face become more stern.*

"I am sure I drive better than you do, I dident think I'd make it home in once peace the other night the way you were swerving all over the road."

*Misty gives Kyle as she pass him to go out the door first. Getting into her car Misty keeps her face solom still though the courners of her mouth are starting to twitch.*

"We might need to stop by your apartment for the helmet anyways, your bother was stern on telling me not to take you anywhere without it."

*Finally Misty's mouth turns up into a smile as the courners of her eyes give a tiny wrinkle as well showing her smile. Pulling out of TJY Misty turns on her music playing the more softer stuff she had. She new enough about Kyle but she wasent sure about his tast in music and dident want to scair him away.

After some twists and turns around town and taking the root with the most things to look at Kyle and Misty are at the beach. Misty looks to Kyle and squints before geting out of the car.*

"I wasent lost you big jerk I just though you would like to see how pretty it is in the fall."

*Misty trys to keep a straght face but it dosent work she ends up busting out laughing before geting out of the car.

After making sure Kyle it out of the car Misty lockes the door and glances at the sky. It looked like it was going to be a nice day out.*

"Come on lets go for a walk down by the water. I know your dieing for the fresh air. Not to mention this time of day it looks real nice."

*Katie smiles and comes around the front of Scott her arms still around his neck and sits on his lap facing him. Thinking for a moment she is quiet.*

"Well if the weather stays nice how about we take Domino to the park. When I was out the other day I baught a frisbi and some tennis balls. We can run off some of our energy along with her."

*Katie leans in and press her lips to Scott's for a moment before pulling away.*

"Than afterwords some ice cream sounds good to me."

Helmet

As Herb leaves to put the wallet away, Carson just stands for a moment alone, contemplating what he'd just done. He didn't regret it...but it wasn't easy. Without his money on him, he'd have no drinks and no smokes. Cold turkey wasn't fun...but if it stopped him from continually getting himself into trouble, it had to be worth it. Something had to change. He'd tried to change things around him and it had done no good. He'd tried to change himself without help and he had failed. This was his last effort.

After getting ready for work, he tries to busy himself, trying hard not to mess as many things up as he had the day before. But the thoughts of last night still haunted him. The guilt was sticking with him this time.

As he's cleaning some pans, and Herb approaches him about the menu, Carson's eyebrows raise. He knew how particular Herb was about that. He knew how Herb liked to keep it in his own hands and not let other people touch it. Why on earth would he let someone else prepare it now...let alone Carson?

Carson just looks at him for several seconds, then finally blinks. "Um...sure...I guess...if that's what you want, yeah, I'll work on it." Amidst the confusion, was also a rising feeling of humility again. Herb treated him like a human. Carson hadn't told him everything, but he knew good and well he didn't have to. Herb could figure out where he'd been last night, and yet he still treated Carson with an element of respect. And that was something that caught Carson's attention. It was a lack of respect in Carson's life that contributed to a lot of the problems. He didn't respect himself, and he didn't respect others. Last night he'd certainly not had any respect for anyone else.

Suddenly his train of thought goes from the menu back to the woman he'd met. He knew he should probably continue his conversation with Herb and talk about this a little more, but if he didn't do something else right now, it would eat him all day. And he wasn't strong enough to handle that right now.

"Hey, Herb..." Carson shuts off the sink and dries his hands. "I, um...I'll be right back, okay?" Heading for the door, he turns around, walking backward a couple steps. "I...uh....stole something from someone last night and...I need to call and apologize. I won't be long."


Kyle grins as Misty comes into the infirmary, and he closes his notebook, prepared to have her make sure all his vitals were fine.

At her suggestion at going to the beach, he cocks his head and looks up at her for a moment. Her eyes looked tired...weary. He hated the pain he felt being shown through those eyes, and wished he could do even more than he had, to make it go away. Perhaps some time out to the lake really would be of some help.

A smile brightens his face and he gives her a thumbs up. Scooting off the bed, he checks his pockets, and coming up empty, turns to Misty and shrugs, signaling that she was up for driving since not only did he not have keys, but he didn't have a vehicle here anyway.

Gestures, mixed with a couple signs, mixed with mouthing the words, the message came across that he questioned her driving abilities and wanted to make sure they didn't have to stop by his place to pick up a helmet for him.

Giving her a mischievous grin, Kyle heads for the door, bowing and letting Misty head out first. Passing by Jason's office, he waves and keeps on going. Once outside, he heads with Misty to her car and slides in the passenger seat. He wasn't about to tell her he had a little headache. That secret was worth being able to get outside for a while.


Scott takes Katie's hands as they're wrapped around in front of him, and he twists his head around to return a kiss to her cheek. "That sounds wonderful. Domino has been a ball of energy lately and she could use some extra attention. ...Not that I don't feel like the extra attention too." He grins. "What do you suggest? It might be kinda chilly tonight, so we could curl up with a blanket and watch a movie, or we could be daring and go for a night walk or..."

Help

*Herb looks up at Carson as he enters and than looks down at the wallet that is pushed twords him. For a moment Herb is confused and dosent understand what Carson is saying but it dosent take him long after searching Carson's eyes.

Carson new he needed help and he was trying to seek it. Herb dident know how much really a help he could be but he would try his best to help his young friend.

Taking Carson wallet Herb looks at it and than up to Carson giving a nod.*

"Ok, I can do that for you. I'll try and help you all I can. Get ready for work."

*Herb exits the kitchen and heads into his office. Opening up his safe he wraps a peace of paper around the wallet and puts it inside closing it and spinning the dial.

Herb hoped he could help Carson, over the last few months of him working for him, and not only than but before that as well Herb had seen the change in the young man. He'd seen the good and the love that filled him. Than now to see him sip hurt, to see him making the wrong desitions hurt as well. But God had a plan and if this way part of it than Herb would listen.

Heading back into the kitchen Herb fiddles around with a few new things and preps for the day. Than I thought crossed his mind.*

"Hey Carson..."

*Herb walks over to him a thoughtful look on his face.*

"The seasons are changing again and that means our specials will be changing as well. I was wondering if this time around you could pick what goes on special menu for the fall. It can be anything thats in season, or you can invent something yourself. As long as it tasts good."

*Herb was a little saprised himself at what he said. Never had he let anyone pick what on the menu let alone the seasonal menu. Not even Mable was alowd to. But this time he wanted Carson to do it. He wasent to see what creative things he could come up with and it would help his mind stay busy for the upcoming hardships.*

*Misty enters the infermary slowly this morning. She had, had a rough night and just dident want to be here or anywhere. Today was just a bad day.

Seeing Kyle Misty throws him a smile as she goes over to him. She was getting better at her signing and now being able to semi read what Kyle was saying she could also talk a little too. It made Misty feel good knowing she acomplished something and helped Kyle as well.*

"How are you feeling this morning? Antsi to get going I bet."

*Misty checks Kyle's for head and takes his pulse. Everything seemed ok so far and that made Misty pleased. Looking around the infermary for a moment Misty dident want to be there she really dident and she new Kyle dident want to be eather. A small smile forms on her face.*

"Hey, would you like to get out of here for a little bit? Get some freshair? I was thinking the beach."

*Coming up behind Scott Katie wraps her arms around his neck giving him a peck on the cheek.*

"Good Morning! Working hard?"

*Katie's smile grows as she keeps her arms around Scott. She was having a good day today, and felt great all the way around. It felt like for the middle of fall it was going to be a warm day.*

"How about we find something to do after work? Me, you and Domino?"

Desperation

Jason grits his teeth and focuses out the window as he receives Nate's harsh tone. Maybe he deserved it.

The comments of friendship though, make him stop and think for just a moment, his own tempter starting to subside. "I guess I didn't realize you and Carson were that good of friends." He shrugs. "Maybe it's me who should be sorry."

He takes a deep breath and lets it out slowly, trying hard not to continue being mad. "I just felt lame in there, looking for answers when you already knew he had an alibi. It made me look like an idiot and he knew it." Jason looks down for a moment, rolling his eyes at himself. "I know I shouldn't have blown up though. I guess I am sorry. Let's just get back to work and see if Wyatt found anything more at Kyle and Phil's place."


To those who are busy, the day goes by too quickly, without enough time to get done everything that needed to be. To those who had nothing to do, the day drags on too slowly with the wish that it would just end so the new day would start.


The water had not been contaminated at Phil and Kyle's...but the glasses in the kitchen had. It had been a clever way to keep the TJY team guessing for a while, but after Wyatt's thorough examination of the apartment, it was that, they discovered that had poisoned Kyle. After completely cleaning out and sanitizing the entire kitchen, they were confident that all the poison was gone, and a security camera was installed by the font door. Someone had gotten in somehow, and though so far any Agency scum had never struck the same place twice like that, it was TJY's responsibility to keep the innocent Mitts brothers safe.

By the end of the day, Kyle is bored out of his mind, despite several visits from Phil and Mike and Jen. Having Jason around and Katie too helped, but all he really wanted was to go home. Rick, however wanted him in the infirmary one more night because he'd showed a slight fever in the afternoon. Kyle does his best to keep his own spirits up though, his smile never fading, his laughter continuing. Spending time with Misty and working on communicating proved to be just as silly as it was useful, but by the evening, Kyle was catching on and along with his own gestures and facial expressions, he was able to convey pretty much what he wanted to say. A far cry from all the talking he usually did though, it did still put a slight damper on things.


Carson's day goes from bad to worse, nothing going right, and misery only increasing. He can't concentrate on anything, his mind is everywhere but work, and by the time the day is over, he would be sure he'd be fired if he didn't know Herb better than that.

Deciding to take Herb up on the offer to use the back room at least for a night or two, Carson moves his bags back to the small bedroom. It was small, but it was more than he had anywhere else. Mostly all he wanted to do was sleep. But at the same time, he was thirsty, wanted some fresh air, and he wasn't in any mood to be alone. There was only one thought that was really appealing to him at the moment. A good cold beer would hit the spot.

It wouldn’t be the shortest walk, but he could use the exercise anyway... He'd come back in an hour or so and then sack out once he'd relaxed for a while...



Kyle sits cross-legged on the infirmary bed with notepad and pen in hand, having already been up and dressed an hour ago, before Rick or Misty had shown up this morning. He was more than ready to get out of here today, though he had to admit that his time with Misty had been fun. Tomorrow would be back work though, if Rick let him go. And then the band needed to hustle and get ready for their next gig.

That thought made him stop and think. They'd have to change some things around...switch up their routine a bit. He'd be able to play the keyboard, but there would be no banter from him, and no singing.

Swallowing hard, the pain was a good reminder that he wasn't supposed to use his voice. It was more depressing than he'd like to think...it was a little more major a deal than others might think it was. But he wasn't about to tell them why. Maybe this was his answer. Maybe this was how it was supposed to be, and he just needed to accept it as the answer he'd been looking for.


Carson’s eyes fly open. Where was he? A slight headache blurred his thinking and he squints into the dim light. It was morning….a work day…yes, he needed to get to work. He… His eyes widen as he feels a foot run slowly down his leg. Then he remembers.

Closing his eyes, he sinks further into the pillow that wasn’t his. A feeling he couldn’t describe hits him like a sledgehammer to the gut. He felt sick. How could he have so badly wanted something that not twenty-four hours later he loathed? It was enough to make his stomach churn, and for a moment, he really did feel as though he’d be sick.

Sitting up, he rubs his hands gingerly over his sore face. He didn’t even remember her name. Not two years prior, that thought would have made him laugh. But today…that thought made him want to kick himself. How had this happened…again…so soon after everything else...

“Mm…Carson?”

He stands up and grabs his jeans off the floor, not responding to her beckoning. It wasn’t fair for him to stay. If wasn’t fair to her, and it would be stupid for him...

The walk to work was a long and depressing one. He wasn’t even seeing anyone right now, but she had been…he’d been the cause of her cheating on someone. He'd seen the man's picture on the nightstand and had ignored it. He remembered Misty. The pain… Though the tables were turned this time, he very well may have contributed to the pain of someone else. It was on his hands…again. How many times would he do this? How many times would he give in to a life he had once loved and now hated? He hated where he was at, he hated his surroundings, he hated his life…he hated himself.

The bar had been relaxing all right. Too relaxing. He hadn't been able to say no to another drink, and striking up a conversation with a young woman had led to one thing, then the next. She'd been drinking too and hadn't known what she was getting herself into. But he had, and he'd taken advantage, satisfying himself before sleeping off most of his drink, but now...once again, reality knocked on the door. What was he doing? What was he thinking? He didn't even understand his own actions anymore. He wanted to not feel anything, but he could no longer stop the guilt. He knew too much about right and wrong not to feel guilty. Maybe in his previous life he'd felt nothing, but now...after experiencing the right way to live, he knew this way was wrong, and his conscience would not let him be.

Entering Mom and Pops' back door, Carson knows he's late once again. Instead of getting ready to work first though, he goes straight to the kitchen, bypassing Mabel and Aerith without a word. Going through the doors, he spots Herb, and for a moment, he just stands and looks at him, his eyes full of the confusion emotions that were erupting inside of him. He was out of control and there was only one thing he could do right now to stop it.

Walking over to the counter by Herb, he takes his wallet out of his pocket and shoves it toward him. In it was his ID and all the money he had...and he was desperate not to use either. "Don't give this back to me," he begs. His eyes search for something solid to grasp onto. He'd never done anything like this before, but never had he felt so desperate for an answer. "Not until I deserve it."

True

*Nate gives Jason an irratated glance at Jason before he looks back to the road.*

"I'm sorry dear, I forgot we are married so I need to tell you what I do in my personal life. It wont happen again."

*Nate draws silent for a momemnt again as they drive trying to keep his own bubbling temper in controll. Now after snapping at Jason he felt bad.*

"Sorry Jase, just tired or something I guess. I honestly dident say anything because I forgot. Why he was in Vegas I dont know, but I did pick him up because he is still my friend and I dident want to leave him stranded. He needed me because he dident have anyone alse. Yes its his own fault, but everyone has to have someone they can fall back on everyonce and a while so at least we know someone cares still. Thats what true friendship is about. Always being there."

Disappointed?

Carson doesn’t understand his own inner turmoil as Nate walks away. Had he really wanted a fight? Did he have so much pent up energy that it had been his only goal, and was now disappointed? Why did he fell almost neglected? Nate didn’t even want to stay and explain? Carson still wasn’t sure what had happened.

His fist comes down hard on the counter top before he spins around and heads back into the kitchen. His head hurt, his face hurt, his hand hurt, his back hurt. He was feeling last night’s accident and all he wanted to do was go somewhere for a stiff drink then sleep off the soreness. All he wanted was to get out of here.

Carson tries to concentrate on his tasks around the kitchen again, but just ends up making mistakes and having to clean up his own messes. And just when he thought a day couldn’t get worse…


Jason gets into Nate’s car without a word. Nothing is spoken until about halfway back to TJY. “So…you picked him up from Vegas, huh? What was he doing there, and why did he need you? And when were you going to tell me this?”

Nothing at all

*Nate lets out a sigh once again as he listens to Carson make his comments and than Jason retort to him. Nate new what Carson was doing and he new, he was doing it on purpos.

As Jason turns to leave Nate steps away from the counter for a moment.*

"Jase, wait..."

*But its to late Jason is already out the door. Letting out another sigh Nate shakes his head. When would Carson learn if ever? Nate dident know but he new he could continue to be his friend and show him the right way through his actions. Even if not everyone understood him.

Though Nate wanted to yell at Carson, he wanted to let him temper get out of hand he dident. Stepping away from the counter Nate hit where it hurt the most. Not really saying anything.*

"Sorry to have bothered you Carson. I'll see ya around."

*Heading out of Mom and Pop's Nate makes his way to the car where he new Jason would be waiting. Though it wouldent take long to get back to TJY, Nate couldent help but feel it would seem like hours.*

Alibi

Jason isn’t thrilled with Nate’s words, but steps down, knowing he’d get into hot water if he didn’t.

Carson isn’t so sure he believes Nate’s motives or not, and forces a short laugh. “What? You want to know my alibi? You should know that one.” He shakes his head. “Or was I dreaming that you picked me up from Vegas?”

Jason’s eyes widen and he looks to Nate. “You picked him up?!”

A slight grin quirks the corner of Carson’s mouth. “He sure did. Guess he forgot to tell you, huh?”

Jason is still looking at Nate. “You actually helped him?!?!”

Carson crosses his arms, feeling a little bit of control back. “He did.”

Jason throws his hands in the air. “I give up. We came here to question, you go and say you don’t even think he’s done it, then I find out you’ve been buddy buddy with him to boot! Forget it. Get answers yourself and if we find out he tried to kill Kyle, be it on your head.” Having enough, he grabs his crutches and heads to the door, letting himself out in a huff.

Carson leans on the counter and looks down, knowing good and well that he’d just stirred that up on purpose, and also knowing that Nate would not be happy. It shouldn’t bother him, but it did, and he waits for the reprimand.

I know

*Nate watches both his friends as his heart ackes. What was this coming to? Why couldent both of them just be nice to eachother? Was the to much to ask? Seeing both of them were about ready to fight Nate steps in.*

"Both of you know it off right now or you will both find yourselfs behind bars understand me?"

*Nate is stern as he looks between Carson and Jason proving he wasent messing around. He had a job to do. Looking back to Carson Nate's eyes soften alittle but still hold strong.*

"Carson we arnt accusing you of anything. Its just you thretend Kyle the other day and we came to you first to gets you aliby so we can clear you before anything gets blow out of the water thats all."

*Nate lets out a long sigh looking to Jason and than back to Carson.*

"I dont believe you did this Carson, I dont believe it at all, but its my job to be here and question you anyways. It would be best if you just answered us."

Tempers

Kyle grins and shakes his head at Misty. He half rolls his eyes as if to say, "Alright, have it your way."

Looking up at the clock, Kyle's eyes drift from the time, to himself, to Rick's empty desk, then back to himself. How long was he going ot have to stay here?


Carson looks up quickly. Nate? Jason? What could they want? A bad feeling settles in the pit of his stomach. At this point he trusted Nate…but not Jason.

Wiping his hands on a towel, he nods to Herb. “I’ll be right back.”

Cautiously, he makes his way to the front, the counter between him and the other two. He swallows hard, finding it difficult to look them in the eye. He tries to partially hide behind under his baseball cap. “Yeah?”

Jason can’t help a bit of surprise. He hadn’t seen Carson in a while, and seeing him like this now wasn’t what he expected. “Wow…what happened?”

“Nothing.” Carson grits his teeth, already his defenses rising. “What do you guys want?”

“We want to know where you were two days ago.” Jason cuts right to the chase.

Carson frowns. What had happened that he would be in trouble for now? “I was…” He stops. “What’s it to you?” He looks between Nate and Jason, leery about all of this. His eyes go to Nate directly as if asking if he’d been betrayed somehow.

Jason’s eyes narrow slightly. “Just answer the question.”

Carson straightens a little. “No. It’s none of your business.”

“It is when attempted murder is involved.” Jason eyes Carson’s reaction.

Carson is slightly taken aback. “Look I don’t know what this is about, but if you’re trying to pin some fool charges against me like that, then you’re out of your mind.”

“Are we?” Jason cocks his head. “What if it was Kyle Mitts that you were getting back at for stepping on your pride?”

“Kyle?” Now Carson is really confused. “He accusing me of something?”

“Not exactly…” Jason leans forward a bit. “You did threaten him though, didn’t you? After your little run in with him?”

Carson’s face reddens slightly. “What of it?”

Jason shakes his head. “You really are stupid aren’t you? Someone tried to kill Kyle, Carson. Poison ring any bells? Agency poison? You got the motive and the means. So tell us about it.”

Carson’s jaw muscles tighten, his irritation growing. His eyes narrow as he glares at Jason, then at Nate. He could take this from Jason, but Nate too? “Get out of here,” he growls, turning around.

Jason stops him with a stern voice. “You walk away and we’ll put you under arrest and have you interrogated downtown. The choice is yours.”

Carson whirls back around, setting his hands on the counter to look Jason square in the eye. “Now you get one thing straight, Hotshot. I do not have to take this from you. You have no evidence that I was anywhere near Kyle. You have no proof that I was involved in anything at all. You got some nerve walking in here and accusing me like this. So go ahead. Arrest me. I don’t care.”

Jason is on his feet, his temper flaring. He was too close to this case, but it hadn’t stopped him from coming. “Don’t push it. You know I’d take you down in a heartbeat.”

Carson holds out his arms in defiance, lifting his chin. “Take your best shot.”

I am

*Misty can't help but notice Kyle look in his eye for a moment but dosent say anything she dident want to pry.

As Misty watchs Kyle sigh she glances into the book a few times trying to figure out what he was saying. Feeling a bit rediculate Misty knows her face is a bit red but she smiles and laughs finally understanding what he was saying. Misty smiles and in a soft voice replys.*

"I am working you goofball."

*Misty gives Kyle's arm a playful nudge.*

"I am a doc after all and I am taking care of you. So all in all I am working. Anyways your more fun to chat with and be around."

*Nate smiles and nods at Mable and Aerith coming up to the counter with Jason.*

*Mable nods back at Jason and Nate offering a smile.*

"Yeah, one sec and I can go get him."

*Mable finishs up what she was doing and than heads into the back going to the kitchen door and spoting Carson.*

"Hey Carson, Jason and Nate are here they said they needed to talk to you about something fast."

*Herb looks up at his wife with question in his eyes.*

*Mable gives a shrug*

"How should I know? I dident ask."

*Herb cant help but laugh as he swings an arm around Mable's form.*

"You, not ask? Not be nosie? wow we should make this on the calander."

*Nate sits at the counter looking for at a napkin he was ripping. He felt trapped between his friend and his work. He new what he had to do and he new it was right but it was just oh so hard. Nate sits in silene waiting.*

Visit

Kyle smiles a little, seeing that Misty liked the words to the new song. His cheeks get a slight color in them from the compliment, and for just a moment, his eyes roam to the door, but quickly snap back again.

In answer to her question, he gestures with a number one over a two, indicating he writes about half the songs that JetStream performs. He then thumbs out of the infirmary and with a bit of trouble fingerspells Jason's name, ending with one-fourth.

Rolling his eyes Kyle doesn't know how to finish explaining about the last fourth of the songs, so instead, he reaches over to slap on the radio by the bed and points to it. The rest of their songs were done by other artists.

Sucking on a mouthful of ice cream, he grows thoughtful for a moment, almost as if he wants to say something, but either doesn't want to make the effort to get the point across, or simply decides he shouldn't say anything. His eyes show an odd struggle for a moment - one that his smile usually hides.

Quickly he turns back to Misty though, his grin back. Grabbing the book, he looks up a few signs and performs them so awkwardly at first that he makes himself laugh. He looks to the clock, showing that this was taking forever, but finally he manages to put enough signs together to convey, "Don't you have work to do today?"


Carson rolls his eyes at himself, but does as Herb tells him and runs his burned finger under cold water for several seconds before continuing with his work.


Jason enters Mom and Pop's behind Nate, hobbling on his crutches. He sees Aerith and gives her a friendly nod, and also grins at Mabel behind the counter. "Hey, good morning." He tilts his head a little, seeing into the back, and spying Carson's form. He glances to Mabel again. "Would you mind going and getting Carson for us? We need to talk to him...it shouldn't take long."

*Misty's grin grows as she see the excitement and laughter in Kyle's eyes. She was glad to make him smile and really feel happy.

As Kyle imitates Tarzan Misty cant help but laugh and not be able to stop for a few moments. She found Kyle’s humor like a breath of fresh air. It ways like the rain after a streak of hot days. Misty truly enjoyed it.

Taking the paper from Kyle Misty reads the song on the page. An even bigger smile spreading across her lips. Kyle truly had a talent for writing that was for certain.*
"Wow Kyle, I love it. Once its finished its going to be amazing. Your truly talented."

*Grabbing her own ice cream Misty starts to eat it as she eyes scan over the page with the words again. She really did like the song alot. Kyle did so good at it Misty just could not get over it.*

"Do you write most of Jetstreams songs yourself for them?"

*Misty pulls her chair closer to Kyle's bed so she can look on in the book for when he answered her.*

*Herb gives his head a little shake as he watches Carson. He felt bed for his young employee and he wish he could help more but until Carson was ready for help there was nothing he could do. All he could really do was keep praying for him that God would shine his light and open his eyes.*

"Go run your hand under some cold water for that it will stop it from bubbling."

Burned

Carson keeps his eyes down, unable to look up at Herb as he receives the offer. He didn't know whether he should be insulted or grateful. He felt both. First he'd been humiliated enough to have to call Nate for a ride...now to have Herb offer the back room... He didn't understand why they would do these things, and he didn't know the right way to respond.

Prepping some food, he finally glances over to Herb, the pain in his face a good reminder as to the reality he'd been getting himself into. "Thanks...Herb..."

As he busies himself around the kitchen, he can't keep his mind from wandering back over everything since he'd started getting involved with the group from the Bullseye. One game...one stupid card game and he'd been hooked. One night...one stupid night with Velvet and he'd been sucked into that life. One time...one stupid time that he'd let himself be blind to his own blunder and he'd been left in the cold.

He certainly didn't feel like the Carson Banks he used to know. Where was his confidence? Where was the determination? Misty. Where was the attitude that no one could walk on? He should be able to handle this. Why couldn't he just turn his back on the world like he'd done so many times before? Misty. Why couldn't he forget about caring about what everybody else wanted out of him, and take care of number one like he always had?

It hits him again, just as it had the other night in Vegas. He couldn't do those things because he wasn't the old Carson Banks. He wasn't the assassin Banks. He wasn't the hard core, heck-raising, free spirit. He wasn't the Agency villain. He wasn't the money hungry, woman hungry, blood thirsty Carson that made the innocent quake. He wasn't the tormentor or torturer. Not anymore.

He remembers how it felt so long ago to realize all that he'd done. So desperate and so lost between worlds, he'd tried to take his own life, showing his true cowardice. He remembers the hard journey to the right side, battling the craving for Agency action, and paying for mistakes by losing things most important to him.

And now...he'd slipped up. He'd gotten a taste of what he used to know, and the craving had started all over again. Drinking...smoking...women...lies... The list went on. He didn't even know why he'd started down that path in the first place. But because he'd done so well playing the good guy, to conform completely to the old side...to his old self...he'd have to give up on the right and wrong he'd learned...he'd have to give up on the law-abiding that he'd learned to obey. And he couldn't do it.

No longer could he be the old Carson Banks. The assassin was long gone. But no longer was he the new Carson Banks either. He was stuck at some miserable place in between, being pulled in opposite directions, without the will to bend to either side. Riding the fence was a skill...but he was starting to fall.

Carson's hand snaps back away from the stove as he burns his fingers, and a curse slips out, muttered under his breath. Sucking on the new wound, he tries to get his head back where it was supposed to be.


Kyle looks up from his writing and grins as Misty approaches. At her questions and assumptions about how he feels, he has to shrug, showing that yeah, he didn't feel the greatest.

As she reveals the ice cream, his smile widens, enjoyment sparkling in his eyes. Setting his glasses up on his head, he takes his treat and dips in the spoon. Sucking off a bite, he gives a big sigh of satisfaction and mouths the words, "Thank you" to her.

Spying the books that she has, and hearing her idea, Kyle can't help but laugh. Though silent, his shoulders shake, his smile proving that it wasn't that he thought it was silly, rather he was amused and pleased with the idea.

Setting his ice cream aside, he takes one of the books and flips through it, scanning the illustrations. Still grinning, he looks up at Misty and gives her a thumbs up. Turning back to his paper and pen, he tears out a sheet of the notepad and scribbles on it. "I know someone who knows this stuff - I've seen them do it. Why didn't I think of this? You're too smart for me."

Handing it to her, his quirky grin remains as he takes another bite of ice cream. His eyebrows suddenly raise as he thinks of something, and he goes for the book again, finding the alphabet. Pointing to himself first, he makes out his name, K-y-l-e. Next he points to Misty, and finds the right letters, M-i-s-t-y. His silliness coming through, he pounds his chest to illustrate Tarzan before rolling his eyes at himself and shutting the book so he can finish his ice cream and before he can think up anything else stupid to do.

Settling back down a little, he goes for the paper he's been writing on, and willingly shows it to Misty, even though it's incomplete. It wasn't often that he shared incomplete writings, but this time he didn't mind.

The wind, it carries me far from here,
Far to a place unknown.
Where my heart is free,
My soul complete.
Take me there, oh take me there.

The voice, it whispers in my ear,
It beckons me to come.
Where the sun is warm,
The sky's all blue.
Take me there, oh, take me there.

It's in my heart, this place undiscovered.
It's in my mind, hidden from view.
It's in my soul, where I venture together,
With hope that I might see it.

The sounds, they carry me towards the hills,
Far beyond my reach.
Where no lies are there,
Love is pure.
Take me there, oh take me there.

The breath of air, it calls to me,
Fresh on summer's end.
It...

My turn to help

*Herb watches Carson as he enters, keeping his eyes close on him. He was worried about his younger employee. Carson was down that rough and rocky road yet trying to grasp to all he could, he was missing the one thing he could hold onto that would set him free.

Giving a small shake Herb enters the kitchen and starts to work along side him. His face looked like he had been hit by a truck and Herb had noticed Carson had no car with him. Herb could only put two and two together.

Carson dident have to ask, or tell Herb anything one of his talents was being able to read people and knowing through there eyes what was there. Herb incredable understanding for people, and there needs helped out as well in times like this. Sometimes it back fired on him but if he dident try than he dident know if he could help or not.*

"If you need a place to crash tonight there is a little bedroom in the back of the store. For as long as you need it you can stay there if you want. Its not big, but its better than nothing."

*Herb turns and starts back on preping things for another busy day.*

*Misty renters the infermary with a grocery bad, and another cloth bag. A smile had formed on her face. As she enters she sets her purse down on her desk and than brings the other stuff over to Kyle.*

"Hey there, writing anything good?"

*Misty gives a small grin and streches her neck like she is trying to look at what he is writing but dosent actully see respecting his privet space.*

"How ya feeling? Crappy? Down in the dumps? Well I think I have something what will cheer you up."

*Misty reaches into the grocery bad and pulls out two indavidual serving of ice cream along with two plastic spoons.*

"Who can deny ice cream? Specialy when it feels good going down that scrathy throut of yours, and I couldent let you eat it in front of alone so I got some for myself too."

*Misty smiles hoping she was making Kyle feel better. He's helped her when she was down now it was time to repay him.

Next Misty reaches into the other bag and pulls out a few books holding them up for Kyle.*

"Next I have some sign language books. I dont know anything about it or even where to start but these are starter books and since you cant talk, and I will make sure of it so that voice of yours gets some rest. I thought we could lean. Than we can compunicat. You lean how to do it and I will learn how to read it."

*Misty beams with pride that she though of this on her own. She wanted to make Kyle feel better she wanted to be able to help him and this way the only way right now she new how.*

Accident

Kyle gives Misty a little smirk at her comment, but holds his smile, tilting his chin up to show an arrogance that states he'll keep that smile just because he's capable and is good at fooling others. Only after she walks away does he let it fade, rolling over to trying and sleep.


Rick rubs his face wearily, keeping his voice low. "I don't know, Misty. We can hope that his body will heal itself. I just don't feel right about surgery until we're sure. Someone like him, I don't want to take that risk unless absolutely necessary. We'll just have to keep an eye on it. He needs to give his vocal cords as much rest as possible at this point. And..."

He gestures to some analysis printouts. "I don't know. The poison appears to be the same. But I'm wondering if he got a double dose." He points to something else. "I got the results from testing that water in his glass, and it came back positive. Phil has been told not to drink any water or touch anything until we can go over their apartment, and I guess Jason's going to keep Trooper over there for a night until we figure out what's going on."

Rick shakes his head. "The only problem is, that Phil did have some water this morning and he had no ill effects. So I don't know..." He gives a little sigh and shuts off the light over the counter. "For now, I'm going home. There's no point in going over this stuff until we find out more tomorrow. If you need anything in the night, don't hesitate to call."


Scott grins and wheels his chair closer to Katie to grab her around the waist and pull her into his lap, planting a kiss on her lips. "Neglecting you? Me? Never!" His smile widens. "You me, dinner, my place...how about it? Oh, and Domino, of course." Not letting her respond, he gives her another short kiss. "Good, it's all set then. Last one there is a rotten egg." Dumping Katie off his lap, he sprints for the door."


The sun never stops its course. The earth never stops spinning or straightens its tilt. Morning must come.


Jason rummages through some papers, unable to concentrate. The only thing he could think about was Kyle...and Carson. Yesterday he'd heard about the little confrontation outside Mom and Pop's, and now Carson was a prime suspect for the poisoning. Jason wouldn't have thought he'd actually do something like that, but they didn't have anywhere else to turn, and Carson had threatened, had motive, and had the means.

Finally making up his mind, Jason grabs his crutches and makes his way out onto the main floor to Nate's cubicle. "Hey..." He pauses in the entry way. "Been thinking about Kyle and all that... what do you say we go pick up Carson for a little questioning session?"


Kyle stares up at the ceiling, rolling his fingers on the blanket. Boredom didn't quite cover this feeling. He'd tossed and turned all night, this morning his head hurt and his throat hurt like the dickens, and if he was told to rest one more time, he's scream...if he could, that is.

Rick had been in to check on him. Misty had been in and out...right now it was way too quiet in here.

Sighing, he reaches over onto the bedside table to grab the paper and pen. Starting to jot down some words, he plays a tune in his head. Songwriting was his outlet, and today...after yesterday...he needed it.


Carson comes slowly into the back of Mom and Pop’s, half an hour late. A cut over his eye is bandaged, and he’s sporting a bruise along the whole side of his face, with several smaller cuts. His baseball cap shields most from noticing his condition unless one is close.

He sets his two bags down on the floor, shoving them into a corner out of the way of anyone. Today he had nowhere to keep them. The car accident last night had seen to that, and his lack of insurance would see to it that he wouldn’t be able to afford a place of his own for a while. He was tempted to ask Herb if he could sack out here tonight, but wasn’t sure he even had the nerve to ask.

Making his way to the kitchen, he grabs an apron, his eyes downcast. He offers no reason or excuse for being late, and simply starts to work, silence ruling his actions.

Naglecting

*As Misty listens to what Rick had to say her own heart sinks. Singing was everything to Kyle and being able to crack jokes at people was something he loved to do as well. Kyle not talking was like the sun without the moon it just dident feel right. Misty's heart went out to Kyle.

Gently pating Kyle's hand Misty musters her own smile.*

"You where that smile well you know that for someone to feels so down."

*Misty lets out a small sigh as she goes to throw the paper cup away that held the water. For a moment she stands with her back to Kyle. She felt so bad. Why would anyone want to hurt Kyle.

Turning back around to return to his bedside Misty continues to smile all she can.*

"I'm sure things are going to work out. Rest that voice of yours and one would think it should heal nicly. Though I will addmit I am gonna miss you talking."

*Misty gives a small laugh and a shake of her head.*

"I'll be right back. Try and get some rest ok. I wont be far away."

*Giving Kyle's hand a pat again Misty turns and follows after Rick letting out a sigh.*

"So what are the chanses of if he rests his voice coming back? And why dident the antadote work this time? Was the poison changed?"

*Katie slowly makes her way to Scott's office and gives a smile seeing him still there. For a moment she just stands in the watching him work. A little bit earlyer she had felt a slight change with Jason, like he was remembering something good that happend and after that she dident feel he was sad from remembering. That made her feel good inside. Katie wanted Jason to be happy, than looking in on Scott as he worked quietly she smiles. It was good to see Scott happy again as well.

Finally entering Katie slowly makes her way to the desk a grin forming on her face.*

"You know if you work to much I might think your naglecting me. We wouldent want that would we?"

Voice

Kyle manages to drink some water, then quirks an eyebrow at Misty’s statement. Poison? What was she talking about? He tries to remember what happened, on top of trying to figure out where on earth he is. Then it dawns on him. He was at TJY. Poison....he remembered what had happened to some of the others now. But...him? Why? How?

On his back again and finally able to sit up just a little, he tries to shake the cobwebs from his mind. He was so terribly groggy, yet didn't want to sleep any more. He felt exhausted and yet trying to wake up at the same time.

He finally gives Misty a little nod and opens his mouth to respond, but again has difficulty. Clearing his throat a little, he tries again, his voice coming out as a heavy rasp. "What...happened?" he finally manages in a whisper. "I feel...like crap."


"Hey!" A smile spreads across Rick's face as he reenters the infirmary and sees Kyle sitting up. Relief sweeps over him. They hadn't lost him. Thank God. "How's the patient?"

Kyle shakes his head, still a bit confused. "Tired," he forces out.

Rick quirks an eyebrow at the sound of Kyle's voice...or the lack thereof. He decides to make a quick examination before letting the others know they were out of the woods. Sitting on the edge of the bed, he checks Kyle's vitals, finding them to be fairly satisfactory, considering all that had just happened. "You gave us quite a scare there, bud." He cocks his head. "Any idea how you could have been poisoned?"

Kyle shakes his head.

Rick has him open his mouth, and examines the back of this throat, poking and prodding. "Well, I know some folks who will be mighty glad to know you're awake." He smiles and gives Kyle's arm a pat. "Don't go anywhere."

Kyle rolls his eyes. "Sure, doc." He glances to Misty and eyes her for a moment, wondering why he felt he'd been with her all day.


The brief hubbub is over. The hugs are through, the commotion ended. Jason is working late, Mike has taken Jen home, and Phil has left for the evening. Upon Rick's suggestion, Kyle is to stay in the infirmary for at least one night.

The several hours has exhausted Kyle further, and he does all he's told without argument, not saying much, but sleeping some and just trying to get over the pain and grogginess.


Rick stands at the counter, going over his findings, and he shakes his head slowly. He didn't like this...not at all. It made sense, now that he knew. But it wasn't going to be easy. Sighing, he turns to see Kyle awake at the moment. He gestures for Misty to join him near the bed.

Kyle looks up expectantly, uneasy about the look in Rick's eye.

Rick rests his hands in his lab coat and looks to Misty, then back to Kyle. "I just went over some things I found after your examination this afternoon, and..." He figures he might as well just give it to him straight. "It appears that there has been damage to your vocal cords. This poison that we've dealt with attacks weak points within the body. You're one healthy young man. The only part of you that's been under strain has been your voice, so that's what was attacked the hardest."

Kyle can feel himself tense a little. He wasn't sue what this meant. Mustering up the energy, he hoarsely asks. "How bad is it?"

"It's not good." Rick purses his lips grimly. "Only time will tell about this one, Kyle. I know you do a lot of singing with Jason in the band, but...I'm going to have to tell you, your best option at this point is to not use your voice at all."

Kyle's heart sinks as Rick continues.

"The only thing we can hope for is that if you give your voice enough rest that your vocal cords will heal. I don't want to go in and do surgery unless time doesn't do enough healing. Surgery risks everything all together, and at least at this point you haven't lost total voice. But..." He shakes his head. "If you listen to me on this one...no talking...no singing. For at least three weeks until I can check on you again."

Kyle's eyes drift downward, then back up again, a grin quirking his mouth. "There'll be....a lot of people happy...that I'll finally shut up."

Rick chuckles, glad to see a good attitude. "You just get yourself some rest now, Kyle." He turns to Misty. "I'll be around for a few more hours probably. If anything changes, let me know."

Watching Rick walk away, Kyle gives a little sigh, forcing as cheery a look as possible. Looking up to Misty, he shrugs. What could he do but obey? He wasn't about to let it show how deeply this bothered him.

Paper Cup

*Hearing Kyle start to cough Misty's head shoots up seeing him. Standing quickly Misty goes to his side closer and puts a hand on his back patting him lightly.*

"Hey, hey take it easy you've been through alot. Let me get you something to drink."

*Heading over to the small sing Misty gets a paper cup and puts some water in it. Walking back over to Kyle she brings the cup to his lips to help him drink.*

"You had us worryed Kyle. We dident think you were going to wake up."

*A slight tear rolls down Misty's cheek at the though of it but its gone quickly trying to show her stregnth.*

"I'm really glad your awake now though. I'd ask how you feel but unfortinatly i know how it feels to wake from the poison and its not fun."

*Katie stays sitting on the breakroom counter waiting for new about her friend. Kyle, why would someone want to hurt Kyle? Everyone alse it made sence. They were connected with TJY, or part of the people from Texas, but not Kyle. Why him?

Katie lowers her head as she says a silent prayer. She hoped and prayed Kyle would be ok and God would see him through this. Katie continues to pray just hoping for good news.*