Disagreement

Rick can see the fear in Jess' eyes and knows to take things slowly. It had been a while since they'd brought in anyone like this, but he knew well enough that it wasn't her fault, and she needed understanding more than anything else. "Nice to meet you, Jess." His voice is warm and calming. "If you want to just come on in here and sit down on that table over there, we can just take a quick glance at ya."

He offers her a smile. "Looks like someone did a good job of giving you some attention already though."

He waits for her to sit down inside the infirmary, and forces himself to ignore the conflicting feelings that rose inside of him, about having Carson there. He knew nothing whatsoever about this case.

Taking a few supplies, Rick slowly makes sure Jess' cuts are clean, careful not to scare her with sudden moves, and aware enough not to do anything that might make her feel uncomfortable.

Wyatt stands nearby, taking mental notes. "I know this is hard for you, Jess...but we all know it's best if you press charges against the guy who did this. And if you do, which we'll help you with, we need Rick here to have written statements about your condition."

Rick smiles again, taping a small bandage over a wound on Jess' arm. "I just need you to tell me now if you're hurt anywhere else that I can't see."

Carson gives her a little nod, telling her it's okay.


Kyle stuffs a bite of burger into his mouth and grins, shrugging slightly, a twinkle of amusement in his eye.

Chatter and laughter filters through Mike’s house as everyone eats. The group had spent so much time together, it was always more like family than friends.

As the meal draws to a close and all that’s left are drinks and a few potato chips, the real reason for the get together finally has to come.

The table is quiet for several moments until Phil speaks up. “Kyle…Mike, Jason and I have talked a bit and…we feel that with everything that’s happened…we should cancel this weekend’s concert.”

Kyle’s eyebrows shoot up as his heart sinks. Never had JetStream backed out of a commitment in the past. He furrows his brow and shakes his head. He holds up his good hand and waves his fingers, showing that he could still play the keyboard, even if it wasn’t as much.

Phil purses his lips. “Look, we know you can still play a bit, but come on…you need to give yourself a break. You can’t sing…you can’t give it your all…and you’re an important part of the band. We just don’t feel it’s right.”

Kyle can feel his defenses rising, and tries to control himself. He tenses, gritting his teeth.

Jason intervenes. “It’s not just that either… with the Agency after you for some reason, we can’t just let that go. We’re going to have to figure this out before we can move on. It’s been suggested that…we clear the calendar completely until we know everyone is safe.”

Kyle can’t believe he’s hearing those words. Clear the calendar? That meant canceling anything they had on schedule and turning down any new gigs. How could they be suggesting this? And they’d been talking without him? That much was apparent.

He looks from Jason to Mike, to his brother, then to his sister, grasping for help here. But the look on Jen’s face says that she’s been in on those discussions too.

Sitting back in his chair, Kyle is just quiet for several moments. Finally he shakes his head again. Silent words mixed with signs, gestures and whatever else to get his point across, he manages, “I don’t like it. I can still play enough to get by, and we made commitments here. As far as the Agency goes, we have people like Katie watching us.”

Phil sighs deeply. “We know all that, Kyle. But maybe we need to start using our heads on this one. We’re not blaming you for anything it’s just…we think this is best.”

“We need to figure out the whys to all of this,” Jason adds. “Without understanding what’s happening, we’re not going to be able to make it stop.”

Kyle’s stomach lurches. He knew why this was happening, and it was stupid no one else had figured it out yet. He opens his mouth to signal he wants to say something, but the discussion continues around him.

Mike nods. “I hate canceling anything, but I agree that it’s the best choice.”

Again Kyle tries to interrupt but isn’t noticed.

“Besides, without the backup vocals, our sound isn’t as strong anyway,” Phil agrees. “We don’t want to disappoint the audience.”

Kyle raises his hand but once more no one notices since he can’t just interrupt with speech.

Jason nods. “Not to mention our script. We’d have to change everything around and to do that before this weekend would be hard.”

Kyle leans forward trying to catch someone’s eye, growing frustrated that no one was noticing his attempts to interrupt.

Phil shakes his head. “I know some people will be disappointed, but we have to think about us and what’s happening.”

“Agreed.” Mike nods.

“Agreed.” Jason puts in his vote.

Jen nods as well. “I think…”

Kyle’s palm suddenly slams down onto the table hard enough to make plates and glasses rattle. “Do I not count all of a sudden or what?!” His forced raise voice feels as though it’s tearing out the inside of his throat, but he ignores it, his hoarse shouting coming out as a painful sounding rasp. “We can’t do this!”

“Kyle!” Jen looks with disappointment and reprimand at her brother. “Take it easy, and for goodness sake, save your voice.”

“Why should I?” A rare anger blazes in Kyle’s eyes. “You’re not going to let me sing anyway!”

“Just calm down, Kyle,” Phil chides. He was a little embarrassed by his brother’s outburst and tries to settle things down. “Quit acting as though we’re doing this to you on purpose.”

“Aren’t you?” Kyle winces as his own force against his vocal cords brings severe pain, but he keeps going anyway. “You all met behind my back,” he whispers. “You all made up your minds without even talking to me about it.”

“Come on, Kyle,” Jason urges. “You know we weren’t leaving you out on purpose. You have to admit that holding off on things for a while makes sense. At least until we can figure out this Agency stuff.”

Kyle shakes his head. “What is there to figure out? They’re after me. Big whoop. They haven’t taken me down yet.”

“No, but they will,” Jason shoots back. “And until we find out why it is they’re after you all of a sudden, we can’t stop them. So far no one’s gotten killed. Let’s keep it that way.”

Kyle’s jaw sets stubbornly. “We’re playing this weekend.”

Jen’s shoulders drop. Why was her brother taking this so personally? “Please…just let this one go. For your own sake.”

“My own sake?!” Kyle stands up from the table, almost knocking over his chair. He was confused, hurt and frustrated. He knew the answer to the Agency questions, and he had planned on performing despite his injuries. “Well thanks for nothing.” Though hoarse, his sarcasm is evident. “Let’s just all let the Agency win this one so they’re happy too.” Spinning on his heel, he stalks to the door where he goes out onto the porch, letting the screen door fall shut behind him with a bang.

The table is silent. The eyes of the band are down, no one knowing what to say. No one had thought Kyle would buck this, and none of them had seen him this upset in a long time. It just wasn’t like him to get so riled.

Kyle leans his hand on the porch railing, watching the sun set. The evening air was chilly, cooling him down. He knew he shouldn’t have lost his temper….he hated it when he did. It was just…so…frustrating. Swallowing, he realizes just what he might have done to himself with his shouting, but what was done was done, now. He should have just let this whole thing go…he should have just relented and left his pride behind.

Is it just me..

*Jamie stays in front of Jess so she is between and shielded by both herself and Carson just in case. Once everyone is in the car Jamie trys to help Wyatt keep the talk light knowing not only did Jess feel uncomfortable but Carson probley did too.*

*Jess is thankful that Carson said he would come along. She would of been ok going alone but just having someone alse there made her feel that much safer. Jess hadent known Carson long, and now she was seeing a differnt side of him, but she new one thing that showed true about Carson was if he said something he ment it. Jess had no doubt in her mind that if Peter showed up not only the two from the Elite would protect her but Carson would too.

Once inside the car and on the way Jess just looks out the window. A far off look in her eye as the scenery pass by. Her mind went to many places and dident stay for very long. Jess just couldent consintrate on one thing. She continued to second guess herself was she really going to be ok? Should she really have asked for these people's help?

Finally as they reach the TJY building Jess is thankful for Carson's help, not being able to do something on her own, or feeling weak was something Jess hasent experinced in a while. She swore she never would again but yet here she was.

As they enter the building Jess eyes rome the many people that were looking there way. She hadent the attachen, she hated the way she looked infront of them. She hated showing she was weak.

Moving closer to the room where she was told Rick would be Jess can't help but jump a mile high as the young man with the cruches calls Carson's names. She new she was safe in these walls there was a certin air, but the tone in his voice, the suddon call made her jump anyways.

Entering the room that looked to be the infermary Jess looks around till her eyes look to Rick and than to the floor. Taking a few steps back Jess just looks to the ground for a moment before letting out a shuttering sigh and than finally looking up. Mustering up the strangth to whisper though the hurt.*

"Hi, I'm Jess."

~*~A little while later~*~

*Misty cant help but let out another laugh at Kyle's antics as they pull into Mike's driveway. Kyle couldn't talk but that dident stop him from being funny. He still could get his jokes across just fine.

Getting out of the car Misty gives a wave to Phil as she shouts to them. Though she dident know the full storys seeing the photo book Misty felt alittle bit closer to her new friends and felt like she now fit a little bit better.

Heading inside Misty was happy that Kyle wanted her here it felt good. Her own spark and smile differnt from what once was normal was now good and true showing she was gonna be ok. Giving her greeting to everyone she finds a seat for Kyle and herself than turn to asking him a question only to forget it and let out a laugh as she see Katie go into a head lock.*

*Giving a playful struggle Katie gives Kyle a tiny wack.*

"Kyle, I'm warning you...Kyle."

*As Scott pips up and Kyle lets go of her, Katie cant help but smile and laugh.*

"Kyle Mitts your luck Scott holding me back here and...and....Jason too or I would of tickled you to death."

*Misty trys to hold in a laugh the best she can but a little slips out anyways. It was nice to see this interaction, to see this fun between friends.

After everyone is seated and the burgers are set on the table Misty turns a little to Kyle with a grin and whispers loudly.*

"Is it just me or does it feel like we just had hamburgers?!"

Lunch

Carson didn’t feel anywhere near comfortable going to TJY, but he’d implied the offer, and for Jess’ sake, he would. She needed help, and if him going along would be a part of that, then so be it. It was strange to see her like this…she had always been so strong. But what had happened could bring any woman down.

He finally nods. “I’ll go. If it’s okay with these two.”

Wyatt can sense Carson’s discomfort, and in a way, he doesn’t feel a bit sorry for him. He knew it would be awkward for Carson to come to TJY…his original offence that had gotten him fired had been bad enough, then the stunt he pulled with Misty was just icing on the cake. Though that one had been against Misty herself, the whole department knew about it, and there wasn’t one person at TJY who wouldn’t take Misty’s side. Wyatt only hoped that Carson’s actions now proved he genuinely cared and that he didn’t have an ulterior motive. “It’s fine by me.” He catches Jamie’s eye, and knows that she’ll be okay with it too, and also reads her own look to take their time. This was a delicate case that needed soft hands.

“I’ll, um…” Carson glances down, then back up again. “I’ll need to ride with you guys.”

Wyatt nods. “I know.”

Carson swallows hard. If he didn’t know any better, he’d think he was in a small town where everyone knew everything about everyone. Unfortunately for him, his working at Mom and Pop’s provided a direct line back to TJY through Aerith and Wyatt. “Okay. Just let me clear this with Herb and I’ll be ready to come.”

He steps closer to Jess, gently and cautiously laying a hand on her shoulder to let her know it was going to be okay. He’d seen so many women like her…so many times he’d seen that look of fear…that look of helplessness and smallness in their eyes. And almost every time…it had been him who had caused that damage. He could see it now…he could see what destruction that carelessness could make…what abusive behavior could make…what taking advantage of someone could cause. Jess was just one of many. And it was about time he started helping put lives back together instead of shattering them. If only he had realized these things sooner. He’d still be in a position at TJY where he actually could be put to use.

But now…now he had a chance nonetheless and it was worth any discomfort at being seen at TJY again.

Going over to Herb, he lets him know what’s going on and gets permission to leave for as long as needed.

Taking their time, the four are able to head back outside. Wyatt catches Aerith’s eye again and tosses her a wink, letting her know that they were still on for their date tonight, then holds the door open for the women.

Carson sits in the back with Jess, the ride to TJY quiet. Wyatt strikes up a little bit of small talk to try and keep things fairly light, and before they know it, they’re parking at the large factory building.

Getting out first, Carson gives Jess a hand out too, knowing that she must be pretty sore, and guides her too the door. He knew the route well and doesn’t miss a beat, going inside and down the elevator, not thinking about the fact that it might seem a little strange to Jess that he knew this place so well.

Keeping Jess close to him, Carson makes his way across the main floor, dodging the looks of surprise from others, and their eyes filled with questions. It was bad enough they were seeing him back here again – worse was the shape he was in to boot, not to mention, with a battered woman. At least Wyatt and Jamie were with them so no one thought he was involved with foul play.

Heading down the hall, Carson directs Jess to the infirmary. “Now, we’re gonna have Rick just make an official report of your condition,” he informs her quietly. “Then Wyatt and Jamie will talk to you more about pressing charges, alright?”

“Carson?”

Carson stops, seeing Jason come out of his office. He hesitates, not knowing quite how to act.

Jason studies Carson’s rough features, then eyes the woman with him. “What…”

“It’s okay, Jase.” Wyatt waves him off. “They’re with us.”

Jason quirks an eyebrow as he fidgets with his truck keys. “Ah…okay…”

Carson ducks his head and keeps on walking to the infirmary.

Rick looks up from his work as he hears the door open, and a look of surprise crosses his face at seeing Carson. “Wh….” Then he spots Jess and the others, and immediately realizes that it was this woman who was here to see him. He would have to save his questions until later.

A gentle smile spreads on his face and he approaches the woman slowly. “Well hello there. I’m Rick.”


Scott looks up from his desk and grins at Katie. “You know when you order me around it drives me crazy.” Chuckling, he gets up and grabs his keys. “Alright, this white rabbit is starving too, so lets get going. If I know Mike, he’ll have hamburgers waiting.”


Kyle laughs with Misty and heads outside, adjusting his sling and trying to get used to it. Though mid-morning by now, they still go to Burger King as promised, and even though lunch is waiting, Kyle doesn’t care, living up to his reputation of being able to pack it away.

Relaxing a while at the park, it’s then off to Mike’s, Kyle giving Misty directions as they go. As they reach the country house outside of town, Kyle spots the other vehicles. He gives Misty a sheepish grin and points, showing that even though this meeting was because of him, they’re the last ones to arrive.

Parking in the gravel drive, they’re met by some enthusiastic barking as Mike’s golden retriever comes bounding around the house. Kyle squats down to give her some loving, showing Misty that Lacey was friendly.

“Yo, Kyle, what’s taking you so long, Bro?!” Phil yells at him from the porch, giving a wave to Misty too. “Hurry up and get in here. Jen insisted we didn’t eat until you arrived and we’re starving!”

Kyle gives Misty a sidelong glance and cocks his head toward the house. The spark in his eye proved he enjoyed having her here and showing her where a good portion of his time was spent when not at work.

Getting into the house, though there’s only eight people, the kitchen seems a bit crowded before everyone gets seated. Kyle comes up behind Katie, swinging his good arm around her to put her in a teasing headlock, dragging her to the table.

“Hey, watch it, bud,” Scott warns good naturedly. “Don’t forget who you’re dragging around there.”

Kyle looks down at Katie, then to Scott, presenting a cheesy grin before letting his captive go. He holds up his hand in surrender, and gestures to Scott that he’s free to set Katie down at the table wherever he wants to.

Jason slaps Kyle upside the head. “You ought to know better than that.”

Kyle shrugs, then sees Jen and reaches down to ruffle up her hair, receiving the annoyed but amused look he was aiming for.

“Are we ever going to eat?!” Phil asks desperately.

Ready

*Jess looks away from Carson for a moment back at Jamie and than Wyatt trying her best to show at least a little bit of comfadence, though she dident feel much. She felt lower than low, and like she dident deserve this help, but they were hear and if something wasent done Peter would be back and this would happen again, and again.

Standing slowly Jess takes the plate so she can put it into the skin.*

"I..I think I would be safe going with them but Carson can you come too? I'd feel better having someone around I know. At least just...just to get me there."

*Jess sets her plate back down as she gets a cold chill and wraps her arms around herself. She hated feeling like this. It had been along time since this feeling had made itself present and now it was back just bring her down even more. Having a strong attatude portrayed to everyone was easy, but on the inside she new the truth. She wasent as strong as she played to be.*

*Jamie stands again and looks to Wyatt. Giving a nod and convaying they just needed to give Jess the time she needed. It was easy enough to tell Jess was hurt not only physicaly but emotionaly as well and it was better to go with the flow and not push.

Jess looked strong but in her eyes Jamie could see her falling apart.*

*Slowly Misty spys the photo album on the coutch picking it up and thumbing through it. As she pass over the pictures a smile crosses her lips.

Trying to peace together in her mind who the people where, and where the storys lied. Going over the smiles, and the sadness in the eyes of the Mitts to the smiles again.

The coming and going of faces of people fills small gaps in Misty's mind as to who these people were and what might of happend.

As Misty comes to the more present and see Katie and Jason another smile forms on her face. Misty was never one to have many friends, let alone have a photo album filled with them so it was nice to see through others what it was like.

Letting out a small sigh Misty puts the photo book down again and starts to think a little bit. The picturs had braught up questions but answered many as well. Misty wondered if one day she would know the whole story but if not the pics had satisfied her cureosity.

As Kyle enters the livingroom Misty watches him intently not offering help yet. Seeing him eventuly tie his shoe she makes a claping motion with her hands and giving a crooked grin.

Standing Misty gives a small shake of her head and grabs her keys from her purse.*

"Lets blow this popcicle stand. We've got food to eat, and something something something?"

*Misty laughs at her stupitidy and she heads out the door.*

*Katie sits at her desk and taps her pencile impashently. 20 min seemed like a million hours when she dident know what was going to happen at the band meeting.

Finally as the clock ticks another minute Katie jumps up from her desk and hurrys to Scott's office peeking her head in.*

"Twenty minutes is up, you me, food now, lets go slow poke."

*Katie cant help her grin as she enters Scott's office and leans aganst the wall.*

Pictures

Scott smirks and waves Katie away. "I would finish up here if some redhead didn't insist on distracting me." He tries to hide his grin, but can't, and tosses Katie a wink. "Be back here in twenty minutes. I'll drive."


Wyatt's heart goes out to Jess as he sees her and hears her talk. She had obviously had a rough time for a while before this...perhaps this was just the straw that had broken the camel's back. Either way, she was scared to death, and it made Wyatt feel even worse. This is why he hated these cases. He always felt as though he wanted to go find the man and beat him to a pulp so he could get a taste of what it felt like.

Containing a sigh, he waits patiently, glad that he had brought Jamie with him. Catching Jess' look at Carson, Wyatt himself eyes Carson for just a moment, silently questioning him.

Carson catches his look and knows good and well that it was asking him if this was another one of his women. His first reaction is defensive, but logic reminds him that quite frankly it was a fair question. He'd made his own reputation and Wyatt wasn't stupid. Relenting, he shakes his head slightly. No, Jess was just a friend.

Wyatt receives his answer and is satisfied that it's an honest one.

Carson sees Jess look at him and gives her a reassuring nod and small smile. "It's alright, Jess. you can trust these guys. Believe me...I know." Jamie's comment about the past had hit him a little harder than he would have liked...he wondered if Jess knew what his own past was, if she'd even trust him.

He cocks his head a little. "You feel okay going with them by yourself?"


On his way to the bathroom, Kyle hears Misty's comment, and comes back, sticking his head back out of the hallway. He opens his mouth, but then decides better of it, and clamps it shut again, just shaking his head and rolling his eyes. Waving her off, he turns back around to trudge to the bathroom and a shower.

It takes longer than Kyle likes, maneuvering with the use of just one hand. It wasn't as easy as it might seem, and just getting dried off after his shower was a task in itself.


On the living room couch, lies an open photo album. One might believe that after Kyle’s accident, Phil had taken time to reflect. Or one might discover Jen had been there and she was the one prone to reflecting during the hard times.

The thick album starts with family photos of the Mitts family. Phil could have been no older than seven, and Kyle and Jen about five. There were pictures of birthday parties and vacations, the family full of smiles. Dad, Mom and the three kids. Older couples appeared as well, obviously grandparents.

In one frame, Kyle and Jen stare up at the camera, beaming as they’re decked out, ready for a Karate lesson. Another pictures shows Phil with another boy who looks about his age, and from the way they have their arms slung over their shoulders, one would guess they were best friends.

The ages grow older as slowly the years pass. Fewer birthday parties, but just as many smiles. Kyle and Jen appear together often, obviously as close as twins might be.

Photos of Jen show her gymnastic activities, while others show Phil and Kyle starting their interest in music with instruments, and what looked like a garage band. Phil’s best friend was often present in those photos.

As the years go by, graduation pictures show Phil out of high school with smiling parents and a teasing younger brother.

Then changes start to take place. The pictures are still many, but Phil appears less, and eventually one shows how much he had changed, his smile had faded, and he was thin, his eyes dim. Though having a silly brother by his side, the life was no longer contagious.

More graduation pictures, this time of Kyle and Jen both, the celebration a grand one. Now only one set of grandparents appeared, though others who looked to be family members showed up every once in a while.

Then the smile on Phil’s face returns as if something had been overcome and the life was back. Mike starts to appear in many photos, and some pictures show the three guys together with their instruments as JetStream is born. A woman is there too, often linking arms or hands with Mike, wedding bands appearing on their hands. Another young man is there as well, appearing with JetStream – one might figure out that he had been their lead singer.

Kyle can be no more than sixteen, when suddenly their father no longer appears in the photos. Family pictures are taken, but he is absent. And for a while, something in Kyle has now changed. The smiles are forced…the laughter caught on film no longer there. Gradually though, the spark returns, proving again, changes in life.

Happy photos show Mike together with his wife and baby along with the band. Jen doting on the baby girl, the guys just being guys.

Then suddenly Mike is alone. His little family is absent, never to return to the album, and his wedding ring disappears.

A new man appears, and wedding pictures are taken of the Mitts’ mother and her new husband. The smiles indicate that all love him and accept them as their step father.

Kyle is constantly involved in antics caught on camera, Phil often joined right in, while Jen is either trying to pry them apart, or laughing on the sidelines.

As the album comes to it’s end, Jen appears in her wheelchair, evidence of an accident. Now there are fewer family pictures and more of JetStream. Jason appears…Katie appears, and in a more recent picture, Scott is even present.

The last photo in the album is a black and white one of Kyle, Phil and Jen together at the beach, just the three of them, probably three years ago. And that picture in itself portrays the very closeness that the family still relies on.


Kyle trudges back down the hallway, trying to pull on his tennis shoes as he walks, and not having a very easy time of it. His hair is still wet, and his cologne is fresh.

Flopping down in a living room chair, he attempts to lean down and tie his shoes, but with one hand, it seems impossible. Quirking an eyebrow, he glances up to Misty, then back down at the shoe. Slipping it back off, he sets it on his lap and ties a knot with one hand and his teeth. Satisfied, he then shoves his foot into the already-tied shoe. Looking up with pride, he shines his knuckles on his shirt, the look in his eye, saying that he shall not be outwitted by a shoe.

Grinning, he does the same with the other shoe until he’s ready to go. Managing a whisper, he cocks his head at the door. “Alright, are we going to get out of here or what?”

For once

*Katie gives Scott a strong Nod.*

"Chinese tomarrow, you got it. Now finish up here so we can do and my stomach wont eat itself."

*Katie laughs and sticks her toung out at Scott. She really apresheated that Scott was trying his best. She new it was hard, but it was nice seeing him try. It really proved he did care. and thats all Katie could ask for.*

*Jess forms the best smile she can as Carson sets the plate down in front of her. Softly mouthing the words.*

"Thank you."

*Slowling picking up the fork with a trembaling hand Jess picks up some eggs and eats them. They almost melt in her mouth and than taking a sip of the OJ the pain for a moment is forgotten. Jess hadent lived all that good in the last few years and this simple meal to her was fit for a king. As she eats more and more she relized just how hungry she was an starts to eat a bit faster pushing the pain away as the meal tasted so good.

As Carson leaves and than comes back in with Jamie and Wyatt she quickly puts the fork done and stops eating. Jess had never been one to be scaired of anyone but after what happend the other night she couldent help but be skidish and jumpy.

Looking from Carson to Jamie and than to Wyatt she trys to calm her nerves.*

"Maybe...maybe I shouldent have called. I..."

*Jamie feels her heart go out to the woman the sat in front of her. She was pretty skinne and look like she was in bad shape. The bruses, the cuts and the look in Jess eyes telling there own story.

Slowly steping closer to Jess Jamie bends down to be on eye level with her and offers a friendly smile.*

"No, you did the right thing in calling. What happend to you isn't right and it shouldent happen again. We will do our best not to let it happen again. It was Wyatt here's dad you talked to on the phone, and Wyatt asked me to come along because at one point in time, I got roughed up pretty bad too. So I understand how you feel and I hope that you can trust me, and let us try to help. you."

*Jess looks at Jamie wearly and studys her face for a moment as her gaze goes to the scar on Jamie's face. Maybe this woman in front of her did understand and maybe not, but not Jess was still having second throughts. Replying everything in her mind she hated having to explain this to people. It felt strange and it wasent that Jess was scaired but more like she felt hurt, and shamed. She was always made herself the strong one and now this happend and she wasent strong enough. Did she not deserve this like Jamie had said? Or was the just the price she had to pay for the past.*

"I...I can come with you. But I can't talk to much it kind of hurts at the moment."

*Jess eyes drift back to Carson. Trying to find comfort in him that things would be ok, and that these strangers indeed would be willing to help her.*

*Entering the apartment Misty smiles and gives a nod.*

"If you need any help give a yell. I am a dr after all so its not like its going to faze me or anything."

*Misty cant help but giggle as a grin plays on her lips her joking air showing. Heading into the living room she sits down on the coutch and flips the tv on to wait for Kyle to return.*

Leaving

Scott's expression softens a little at Katie's comment of lunch. He knew she's stay and go with him instead, but he also knew and understood her commitment to the band. Whether she was willing to sacrifice the meeting or not, he didn't want to make her do that. The guys wanted her there for a reason, and he respected that.

"Naw, that's alright. I'll come along with you." He knew everyone well enough now that it didn't make him feel uncomfortable anymore. "Can't refuse free food now can I?" He tosses Katie a wink. "But we're doing Chinese tomorrow, no buts about it."


Carson is caught off guard by Jess' question and throws her a look for a moment that conveys his own inner turmoil. "You tell me."

Shaking his head, he helps her up and to the kitchen, not making her walk too quickly, knowing that she must be terribly sore. Getting her sat down in the chair at the quiet end of the kitchen near a little table, Carson moves to make her some breakfast.

He throws a look to Herb, conveying that he's sorry for the intrusion, but it's obvious the woman needs help, and Carson will gladly take the money for breakfast out of his paycheck.

Fixing some eggs and bacon, instead of leaving things separate, Carson scrambles the eggs and chops up the bacon into tiny pieces so that it doesn't require hardly any chewing, along with some very finely chopped green peppers, then puts a little bit of cheese to melt over the top. The end result is more like an omelet one could almost eat through a straw if they wanted to.

He sets the plate down for Jess, getting her a fork as well, then pours her a little bit of orange juice from the fridge. "Eat what you can - it'll do you good," he prompts.


Wyatt laughs at Jamie and nods. "It's a deal." He leads the way out of TJY, heading for his jeep. Waiting for Jamie, they're on their way across down. After all that's happened, by the time they actually get there, it's late morning, almost time for the early lunch-goers to start showing up.

Wyatt parks his jeep out front and heads to the entrance with Jamie, letting her in first. Taking off his sunglasses, he tucks them in the front of his shirt so they hang off the collar, and scans the restaurant. "You see her?" Glancing around, he spots a familiar face and can't resist a smile and wave in Aerith's direction. It was obvious he was on duty, so he didn't feel bad he couldn't talk to her right now.

Carson hears the bell on the door again and sees Jess tense. He looks out through the doors to the front and spies Wyatt and Jamie. They had to be here for Jess. Looking back to her, he gives a slight smile. "The cavalry has arrived. Sit tight a minute, okay?"

Slipping from the kitchen, he goes out onto the floor. He was hesitant to talk to Wyatt and Jamie both. It had been so long since he'd talked to them at all...not to mention who knew what they'd been hearing about him, especially Wyatt, through Aerith. But, right now, he couldn't focus on himself. Jess needed them, and if he could help, he needed to.

Wyatt lifts his eyebrow as he sees Carson emerge from the kitchen. "Well...maybe he knows more about what's going on. Dad did say the woman knew him."

Carson approaches slowly, nodding to Wyatt, and daring to look at Jamie too, though quickly lowers his gaze. "I take it you're here to talk to Jess."

"Yeah, we are." Wyatt nods. He cocks his head a little, seeing the hesitance in Carson's eyes. "How you doing, Carson?"

Surprised that there was any concern for him, Carson lifts his eyebrows a little. He gives a dry laugh. "Unless you got all day, I better not answer that." He shakes his head. "Jess is in the kitchen. She got roughed up pretty bad by her boyfriend. She's cleaned up a bit and is working on a little breakfast. If she'll go with you, it might be a good idea to have Rick check her over."

Wyatt sighs, but nods. "I hate cases like this. I agree though." He glances to Jamie. "We'll have to see if she'll press charges. If she will, we can get her some protection and have this guy arrested. Either way though, if she's in that bad of shape, it's not a bad idea to have Rick see her."

Carson thumbs to the kitchen. "Follow me. I'd rather take you back there than make her come out here just yet."

Wyatt lets Jamie go ahead of him behind Carson, keeping a watchful eye out for anybody who looked suspicious.

Reaching the kitchen, Carson enters with the other two. Looking to Jess, he gives her an encouraging nod. "Jess, this is Jamie Franklin and Wyatt Reese. They're here to help you."


Jason grins and rolls his eyes. "Yeah, sure, whatever. You two work that out then. Since that's all taken care of then, I'm going to head to work for just a few minutes and see what's going on there, then I'll aim for Mike's." Turning, he heads for the door.

Kyle quirks an eyebrow and whistles through his teeth.

Jason spins back around. "Now what?"

Kyle points to the closet near the door.

"Oh, you don't want to go to Burger King in your hospital garb?" Jason grins and finds a bag inside the closet with Kyle's clothes that he'd come in with. "You might want to go home first before you go out in these things, but I guess they'd be better than what you got on."

Kyle sticks his tongue out at Jason, and in response, gets the clothes to his face. Smirking, he tosses Jason an annoyed glance, even though the humor still danced in his eyes.

Jason chuckles and goes to leave on more time, but again, is stopped by a whistle from Kyle. He throws up his hands. "What did I forget this time?"

Kyle bites his lip and scrunches his nose. He glances down to the hand he couldn't use, then to his clothes, then to his hand again then back to Jason.

Jason sets his hands on his hips. "If it were anyone else, Kyle, I'd say you were nuts and I'd call a nurse in here instead."

Kyle quirks an eyebrow as if contemplating that option.

Jason stops. "On second thought, you might enjoy that too much."

Kyle can't help his laugh. He couldn't help it that he was going to have trouble getting dressed, and when it came to his family or close friends, he had no embarrassment in asking for help when he needed it.

As Jason comes over though, Kyle looks to Misty and cocks his head, giving her a teasing warning glance. Holding up his good hand, he twirls his finger around, telling her to turn around. His eyes dance with a comment he wants so badly to say that's on the tip of his tongue, but to save his voice, he has to swallow it.

It only takes a few minutes for Kyle to get into his clothes and is ready to go. Receiving directions from the nurse about keeping his hand in the brace and using a sling, he walks with Misty out of the hospital, going just a bit slower than normal, not wanting to admit how sore he was all over, not just in his hand.

Before they know it, they're at his apartment. Phil is already gone, so it's quiet. Kyle gestures down the hall that he's going to take a shower and get changed. He throws a haphazard gesture to the living room, indicating Misty can make herself at home.

Help

*Katie smiles leans over Scott for another kiss before retreating to answer his question.*

"Mmmm....food sounds go...."

*Katie is cut off as her phone vibrates in her pocket. Looking down she see its Jason she stops her train of though automaticly going to her feels to see if something was wrong. Not sencing anything but a small nervouseness Katie decieds to answer the voice mail.*

"Hold that thought."

*Katie dials her voice mail number and listens for a long moment before shutting her phone and sitting down in the chair across from Scott's desk.*

"Well that was Jason. I guess Jetstream is going to have lunch and a meeting today about Kyle and they want me there incase anything goes down. I probley should go. Jason said you can come along for lunch as well if you would like."

*Katie looks to Scott and gives a soft smile.*

"I'd like you to come, but if you dont want to I'd like to go to lunch with you even more than go to the meeting."

*Misty cant help but smile and laugh at Jason and Kyle. They did act like brothers, but it was nice to see a smile on both there faces. Seeing Kyle's puppy dog face Misty's eyes show a softness not often seen in the last month. Turning to Jason she shakes her head a little bit.*

"Rick already gave me the ok to keep an eye on Kyle for at least the first day of him being home we dont need any saprises. And I certinly dont mind keeping an eye on him.

On top of that I did promise Kyle Burger King. He can come with me to get food if you want, than I can take him home, and than he can give me directions to Mike's if thats ok. I dont mind one bit."

*Misty looks to Kyle and grins before looking back to Jason.*

*Jess looks at Carson as he finish cleaning her up. This was a differnt side to Carson she had never seen before. It was funny to think someone with the personality she had seen could be this soft as well. Fighting the pain in her jaw Jess manages to talk a little bit.*

"So...is this the real Carson?"

*Jess cant help but laugh and than go into a coughing fit as she slowly stands to follow Carson to the kitchen. She was thankful for his kindness and a good meal would fell good as well. Even if it did hurt to chew and swallow. Sitting down Jess keeps her eyes to the floor but cant help but jump whenever the door opens to the restront. Jess dident think Peter would have the guts to come here but still that panic was there.*

*Jamie looks up at Wyatt as he knocks on her wall. Not having to have him ask again Jamie stands from her desk and grabs her keys and jacket. Heading out with Wyatt she nods and smiles.*

"You can drive since I have to do the work."

*Jamie cant help but laugh as she gets into Wyatt's Jeep. She was glad to help. She liked being able to use her own past to help someone in need. Since she way kidnaped she had grown more in tuned with those how had been hurt and needed someone.

Bringing a hand to her scar for a moment Jamie remembers what it was like and how scaired she was. Never did she want anyone to feel so alone. She would always do what she could to help.*

Plans

Scott grins. "Well I'm glad you took out your frustrations on a punching bag instead of me." He flops back down in his chair, sifting through some papers. "And speaking of hungry, I hear there's a luncheon special down at he Chinese place..." He lets the invitation hang in the air.


Jason limps the hall as he talks to Mike, finally ending the call, just to make another one. Getting Katie's voicemail, he leaves a quick message. "Hey, Hero, it's me. Yeah, I know, I skipped the vibes and went for airwaves instead. Band meeting today. Lunch out at Mike's. Talking about Kyle, the near future, etcetera. If you can take the time, meet us out there. If Reese hassles you, remind him he gave you permission eons ago to be the bodyguard. And if you had a date with Scott, tell him lunch is on Mike and I'll make it up to him later by not complaining when my printer spits out that blue ink the next time." Closing his phone again, Jason sighs. It was going to be a long day. He heads back to Kyle's room, stopping at the nurse's station first to inquire as to when Kyle could go home.

As Misty leans in for the kiss, Kyle doesn't resist, but allows the intimacy in the privacy of the hospital room. Feeling Misty so close sends the same tingles down his spine, and he returns the kiss with a slow passion, getting stronger as his own hand cradles her head gently. The pain in his face went ignored, the throbbing in his hand was forgotten, if only for a few moments. The exchange is broken only as he shifts his head and returns again, unwilling to let the bliss end so soon.

Drawing back, a small smile creases his lips, his eyes showing their spark as he runs his hand through Misty's hair, his palm finding a resting place on her cheek. Though not supposed to, he speaks again, having to force the words in order to carry the whispered tone. "I think I like that kind of crazy doctor."

Taking his finger, he taps the end of her nose playfully before sitting back into his propped up pillows.

"Hey, Kyle, you ready to get out of here or what?"

Kyle jerks his head toward the door as Jason comes back into the room. He rolls his eyes. Was he ever.

Jason squints at him. "You look like the cat that just ate the canary. What kind of trouble could you possibly get into around here?"

Kyle's grin widens and he shrugs, quirking an eyebrow. He gives Misty a sidelong glance then looks back at Jason, not willing to elaborate.

Jason smirks and shakes his head. "Yeah, knowing you, you've been flirting with the nurses. One of which, by the way, said she just got the doctor's 'ok' that you're free to go. And...I just got off the phone with Mike and he and Phil both want a band meeting today. Mike's got the day off, I'm self-assigned to you right now, but Phil has to work late, so we were thinking about getting together at Mike's for lunch."

Kyle thinks for a moment. There was something in Jason's tone he didn't like...and there was a feeling that today was going to be dreaded. A lot had happened...he was the center of attention, and whether he wanted to admit it or not, a lot was on the line as of now.

His stomach growls, reminding him that he didn't want to wait until lunch, and he looks to Misty, sticking out his lower lip. He'd been promised Burger King.

Jason lifts an eyebrow. "Now what's your problem? I can take you home to change clothes or whatever, then we can head to Mike's early if you want."

Kyle contemplates, then looks to Misty again. There would be discussion today that she might want to be included in. Whether anyone else realized it right now or not, she was a big part of this. Kyle hated to think about how she was going to feel, but they had to talk about it sometime, and he knew it was coming.

He gestures and mouths several words to Jason, trying to get the point across that he wanted Misty there too.

Jason cocks his head. "Well...I guess that's alright. But Katie might be coming if you're worried about protection."

Kyle shakes his head. No, that wasn't it. He just plain thought Misty should be there.

Jason shrugs. "Whatever." He looks to Misty. "What do you guys want to do? Did you have plans already? I figured you'd head in to work, but I can get Rick to lay off for a day if you want me to." He grins. "We can stretch it somehow so you're actually on duty. Like tell him Kyle needs twenty-four/seven care for one day or something."


Carson sits beside Jess on the bed, carefully cleaning around her cuts. He pauses though when she tells him about Peter, and he takes a deep breath, controlling his temper. He searches Jess' eyes for a moment. She'd called the Elite? At least Carson had faith in them to help. If she'd called the local cops, he'd have his doubts.

Her request isn't received with enthusiasm, but he gives a nod, relenting. "Alright...I won't do anything. But if he comes near you when I'm around, don't expect me just to stand there and do nothing."

Carson reaches over to wipe some dried blood from around her lip, his eyes showing his concern. Taking her arm and rubbing some disinfectant around another cut, he experiences a brief flashback of playing doctor to his little sister when she'd fallen off her bike and no one else had been home. After that, any time she'd had a cut or scrape, she'd come to him instead of Mum because he never chided her...he would just dry her tears and clean her up.

Blinking, the memory is gone, and Carson goes to retrieve the first aid kit, coming back to the bed and finally speaking again.

"The Elite will take care of you. I..." He hesitates, knowing that not only were there things Jess and the others had never known, but he also knew that his actions today were probably showing a different side of him than she was used to. But he keeps going anyway. "I was part of that branch for a while and they're good people. You can trust them." He takes a small bandage and tapes it over the cut above her eye, working with gentleness he rarely let show. "As far as the girl is concerned..."

Carson looks down for a moment...the pain was buried deep, but still there. "I think I pushed that opportunity too far out of reach to ever get it back."

Giving a sigh, he closes up the first aid kit and goes to rinse out the washcloth. "If you feel up to it, you can come sit back by the kitchen and I'll get you some breakfast before somebody from the Elite comes. You should at least try to eat something, and Herb's bark is worse than his bite."


Wyatt grabs his jeep keys from his desk and pulls on his brown leather jacket, heading out of his cubicle. His hair was pulled back, and he sets his sunglasses up on his head, coming to Jamie's cubicle before going outside.

He knocks on the wall and looks over at her, smiling. "Morning, Jamie. We just got a call from a woman who's got a guy after her or something. Sounds like she already got hurt once, and somehow she wound up down at Mom and Pop's and called here. I thought it best if a woman went with me for this one. If you can't, I can get Laura or Katie instead, but I thought I'd give you first dibs since you're good at this sort of thing."

Please

*Misty smiles at Kyle, and brushes away her tears. Giving a laugh to his joke and a light tap to the arm.*

"Your a dork Kyle Mitts."

*Misty cant help but addmire Kyle. No matter what he always smiled and was always telling a joke. Even when this were bad, and the word had him down. Kyle Mitts wouldent say down. Kyle was a uneque person and Misty new it.*

"Alright how about we get you out of here and get some..."

*Misty looks around for any nurses.*

"..Some BK breakfest huh?"

*Not being able to hold the grin Misty's mouth finally curles.*

"Some Dr. I am. I'm crazy to boot."

*Misty gives a wink and leans over to give Kyle pressing her lips to his as they have a moment to of being alone. Her hand finds the side of Kyle's face as her other goes to his back. Her paulse races as she can takes the sweetness of Kyle's kiss. Misty's hand moved from Kyle face to the back of his head, as she takes in the moment.*

*Katie smile at Scott. She always loved coming in his office. For some reason to her it smelled like pine mixed with the lingering smell of jerky and to Katie, that smelled good. Not to mention, being close to Scott was good too.

Giving a laugh Katie retreats and takes a peace of Scott's jerky knowing he wouldent mind.*

"A little. I was releaving stress I feel better now, except I am hungry."

*Katie smiles as she pops the peace of jerky in her mouth. Maybe today would be a good day after all.*

*As Carson puts his arms around Jess she cant help but jumps alittle bit. But relaxes as she relizes its Carson. Sitting down Jess winces a little bit but avoides eye contact with Carson.*

"I called that place that you said those people were from, I needed help befor he came back Carson."

*Jess takes in a painful breath of air as she finally looks up to Carson through her bruses and cuts.*

"It was Peter, he wasent to happy that I dident want anything to do with him anymore. So he came to my house last night and...he said he would be back."

*Jess takes Carson's arm through her trembaling fingers she can read the anger in his eyes and new Carson well enough to know the look.*

"Please dont do anything to get yourself in anymore trouble. The guy from the Elite is sending someone over to get me. I dont want to see you get in any more trouble and risk pushing that pretty girl of yours away anymore. ok?"

*Jess looks down at the ground again tired, and hurting to much to talk anymore.*

On the way

By the time Misty comes, Kyle is finished trying to eat his breakfast. He'd been hungry, but the scrambled eggs from the cafeteria had quickly put an end to that longing for food.

Looking up and catching her eye, Kyle searches her face, and can see how pained she is because of all this. To be cared about felt nice, but he hated it when others hurt because of i.

As his hand rests in hers, he tightens his grip and gives it a little shake, throwing her a wink to tell her not to cry - it was okay.

Kyle's eyes remain on hers for several moments. He wanted to crack a joke to break this tension. He wanted to get up and make her laugh like he was so good at doing. He wanted to prove that life had not stopped.

"We are in the eye of the storm," he quietly manages to whisper. The Lord was his shepherd, and knowing that, he could always be in that calm, no matter how the circumstances clawed at him. "It's in here." Still holding her hand, he moves it to tap over her heart.

A grin toys at the corners of his mouth until a hoarse chuckle comes. Managing a few signs and words, he gets out, "Great promotion for JetStream, don't you think? Keyboard and backup vocals by one-handed, mute Kyle Mitts."


Jason comes back from making a call to Phil, and pauses in the doorway. He cocks his head at seeing Misty holding Kyle's hand. He knew they'd been spending more time together lately. It was no longer a surprise to anyone when they knew Misty and Kyle were out doing something - it had been rather nice to see Misty making a friend outside of TJY, and one that had distracted her from all that had gone on with Carson. Even that incident seemed a million years ago.

But holding hands? It struck Jason as just a little odd. Kyle didn't seem the type, and though obviously good friends, Misty's actions seemed a little out of place.

Shrugging it off, Jason goes to enter the room, but his phone buzzes on his belt. Rolling his eyes, he goes several feet back down the hallway to take the call.


Scott smiles and hugs Katie back, giving a laugh. He glances down to his waist where he was still having to wear a belt from all the weight he'd lost. "According to Susanne, I need some more meat on me."

He leans in to plant a kiss on her forehead, and straightens a sweaty strand of hair behind he ear. "You've been busy this morning. Having fun?"


Reese busies himself doing two other things while answering his phone, but suddenly he stops multitasking and listens to the woman on the other end. Hearing she was a friend of Carson's made him cautious, but the tone of her voice was too heartwrenching for her intentions to be bad. He had no idea just what kind of trouble she was in, but knowing that she'd called TJY meant she had to be desperate.

"Alright, Jess, you just take it easy, okay?" He talks in a quiet, soothing tone, his experience dealing with distraught people coming through. "It's going to be alright. Where are you now?" Finding out that she's at the little Italian restaurant, Reese is satisfied that she would be safe there for a while. "Okay, you just sit tight there and relax. You'll be safe there. I'll have someone come down to talk to you. We're going to help you, Jess." Ending the call, he phones in to Wyatt.


Carson looks up at Mabel's words, and glances out to the side booth. The pan he's just washed slips from his grasp, clattering loudly to the floor. He blinks and picks it up quickly, setting it on the counter. Filled with concern, he discards his apron, tossing it onto a hook and slips from the kitchen too quickly to even tell Herb where he's going.

Fast strides take Carson to Jess's table where he squats down next to the booth so he can look up at her, the question and concern filling his eyes. "Good land, Jess...what happened?"

Glancing around and noting that several customers were coming in, he decides this was not the place. "Come on." Standing up, he reaches down to gently prompt Jess from the booth, and puts an arm around her shoulder to guide her back behind the kitchen down the hall to the little room.

Getting her to sit on the small bed, he goes to the sink and dampens a washcloth before returning to her. An anger starts to burn within him. He could tell that the marks on her face were made from a fist. And there was one person he know would be stupid enough to do that.

Lightly wiping several of the cuts on Jess's face, Carson grits his teeth, keeping his tone soft. "Who did this, Jess?"

Calm

*The morning was crisp on Misty’s face as she headed out of her apartment. Her first stop would be to see Kyle this morning. He was going home and she wanted to be there with him at least for the travel.

Getting to the hospital Misty enters his room and gives a smile going over to him. Though she had seen him yesterday like this today the burses and cuts showed more color. Not to mention his hand. Kyle didn’t need to say anything and Misty new what a broken hand might mean to a keyboardist. Misty’s heart went out to him.*

The trials you are now facing
They are not greater than your will
For there is nothing under heaven
You cannot overcome
See the door that lies before you
And know this too shall pass
The confrontation of your fears
In strength drawn from the past
Where the silent voices whisper
Find the course that is your own
And however great the obstacle

*Misty reaches out and takes Kyle’s good hand in her own as some tears roll down her cheek. Why, why would they do this to Kyle.*

You will never be alone
for I have watched the path of angels
and I have heard the heavens roar
there is strife within the tempest
but there is calm within the eye of the storm

*They couldn’t do this. The Agency couldn’t get away with this. Kyle was innocent; he was a good guy who got dragged into this. NO! Misty wouldn’t let this happen again, something had to be done.

Letting out a long sigh Misty sinks back in the chair her hand still in Kyle’s. What could she do though? She new her hot temper got her into trouble so many times before, and this time it would too if she didn’t cool it. She could do nothing but be there for Kyle as much as she could and offer him comfort. For now that would have to do.*

“One day we will find the calm in the eye of the storm Kyle. One day. I’m here with you now.”

In fragments of an instant
the chaos has returned
and all that was left to sentiment
beneath the banner burned
and as that voice was slow receded
into echoes, memory
my doubts were re-ignited
and fear awakened from its sleep

*Standing from her desk Katie lets out a tired, frustrated sigh. Everything seemed so heavy right now. Like there were bricks on top of her and she couldn’t do anything to remove the crushing feeling. The case Reese had her working on, on top of the attacks on Kyle, on top of the normal work Katie had from Jamie. Normally she could handle it all but for some reason this whole week just seemed odd. Standing Katie lets out a sigh and stretches. She needed to clear her head, let pent up frustrations out or something before she imploded.*

I believe in what I fight for
and I have paid for it with pain

*The sound of flesh pounding on something hard rings out through the bottom of TJY. Many things run through Katie’s mind as she stands in front of the punching bad. The frustration of having no leads with the case she was working on.

Another punch lands sending the bag spinning away from Katie.*

I am here because my contributions
May help turn this fate away
and all who stood by and did nothing
who are they to criticize?

*And Kyle, who would ever want to hurt Kyle. The Agency what did Kyle have to do with this?

Another punch lands dead center.

Why did the innocent always have to suffer? And than the famous question enters Katie’s mind that has been asked many times in the past by her ancestors “Would this ever really end?”*

The sacrifices of others
our blood has bought their lives

*This time a high kick with force send the bag spinning almost coming off the hinge as Katie stands panting.

This would end, they would stop the Agency. One day everything would be alright. Katie was proud to be apart of that even if it was stressful. Katie was proud to be part of what would bring the calm in the eyes of the storm.*

This is the moment of truth
At the point of no return
Place faith in your convictions
as the boundaries start to blur

*Grabbing some water Katie heads back up to the top floor. Making her way across the floor she passes her cubicle and heads to Scott’s office. Entering Katie can’t help but smile and shake her head at the MD and Jerky laying on his desk.

Walking over to him Katie knows she is sweaty but doesn’t care to much as she gives Scott a huge hug.*

“You know that MD and Jerky is going to go right to your hips.”

There is no love untouched by hate
No unity without discord
there is no courage without fear
there is no peace without a war
there is no wisdom without regret
No admiration without scorn
there is strife within the tempest
but there is calm in the eye of the storm

*Heading out the door Aerith grabs the letter from her table she had forgotten about the night before. Jumping into her car Aerith heads off to work…*

The pages of our history
are written by the hand
with eyes and ears and prejudice
too far removed to understand

*…Finding it rather slow this morning Aerith finds time to sit down and pull out the letter from her pocket. Ripping it open Aerith’s eyes scan the words on the page. At first her confusion shows though as she rereads the top letter. It was from her grandmother’s lawyer telling Aerith that her grandmother had changed her will before she died and left everything she owned to Aerith. Stunned Aerith can hardly move. Her grandmother had never been too nice to her, but why would she than leave her everything.*

And so the heroes of the ages
are stripped of honesty and love

*Flipping the next page over Aerith finds a list of everything thing that was now hers along with a letter from her grandmother herself.

Dear Aerith,

I know this may come as a shock to you. Me leaving everything I own in your hands let alone have a letter waiting for you. But Aerith, after you left and started staying with you friend I realized a few things. I realized how much I did miss you, and did like having you around.

So I guess I am saying is I am sorry for how I treated you. I know those simple words wont make up for what I am missed, but I only hope you can find it in your heart to forgive me.

You really have helped me Aerith in more ways than you know and I am so proud of who you have become even though I hadn’t said it a lot if ever. Your strength and joy for life and your love for God shown through in everything you did.

Because of you Aerith, in my last hours I found the calm in the eye of the storm. I now know where I am going, and death is not the end but the beginning of a better life and one day I will be able to see you again my dear child. Thank you for giving an old bitter woman hope before she died. I hope you can find some use in the stuff I left you. Anything you don’t want, give it to anyone who needs it. I love you my dear one.

-Grandmother

To make them seem less noble
and hide what we can become

*Aerith rereads the handwritten letter. So many emotions she felt at the moment she wasn’t sure where to start. A small tear rolls out of her eyes was all that was present at the moment. Her grandmother had been…proud of her. That was something she never heard before, not to mention she was saved before she passed on. That alone put butterflies in Aerith’s stomach. And now, a sudden dull ach forms and for the first time, Aerith miss her grandmother.*

There is no love untouched by hate
No unity without discord
there is no courage without fear
there is no peace without a war
there is no wisdom without regret
No admiration without scorn
there is strife within the tempest
but there is calm in the eye of the storm

*The small bell on the door to Mom and Pop’s opens as a slumped over figure enters. As she looks up quickly she scans the room Jess isn't quite sure why she is here of all places but for some reason she though it felt safe.

Squinting through a swollen shut eye Jess tries to see where an empty seat was. Slowly limping over to a booth that was pushed into the back Jess sits down. She really didn’t want to be noticed or bothered. She just wanted to be lost. Her hurt more today than she had yesterday after her run in with Peter. All Jess wanted to do was cry, but tears just wouldn’t come.

For a long while Jess just stairs down at the table as she runs over her broken open lip with her tong and her arms kept wrapped around her.*

If you find the courage within you
to face the path ahead
it matters not the outcome
if what you will gain instead

*As Jess sits she runs over Peter’s words in her mind. He said he would be back, He said she would never be rid of him. She couldn’t take that though, she didn’t want Peter to come around her again and she didn’t want to feel this pain ever again. But where was she to turn? Who would help someone like her?

Running over her options in her head Jess comes up with dead ends one after another. Than glancing up for a moment and catching sight of Carson Jess remembers something Carson had told Peter. “Most of those people are part of The Elite. Do you want to get us messed up with the law do you?”

Jess wasn’t sure what they did or if they could help but it was her only option she had to try before Peter found where she was.*

Is a heart deepened in the knowing
that experience guards the soul
and the very thing that empties you
Shall surely make you whole
Where the silent voices whisper
Find the course that is your own
And however great the obstacle
You will never be alone

*Scanning the dinner for a moment Jess spots a phone booth that had a phone book. Slowling standing Jess winces but makes her way over to the phone book and picks it up brining it back to her table.

Opening the book Jess flips the pages looking for the phone number she needed. Finally finding it Jess reaches into her pocket and pulls out her cell. Entering the number Jess’ hand quivers than she press send. Waiting.

Finally a male voice answers and states his name. Silent for a moment Jess hears the man say hello again before she finally finds the words to speak. In a soft hurting voice Jess finally reply.*

“Hi Reese, my name is Jessica Fisher and I…don’t know if you can help me or not, but I’m a friend of Carson Bank’s and I kind of know you guys are in law enforcement and stuff…but...I…need help. Lots of help and I have no where ales to turn. I have someone after me who has already hurt me once and told me he will be back. I...I just…don’t know what to do.”

*A few tears roll out of Jess eyes as she replies the might before in her mind. How horrible it was and how much pain it brought back to remember.*

For I have watched the path of angels
and I have heard the heavens roar
There is strife within the tempest
But calm in the eye of the storm

“Can you help me find the calm in the eye of my storm please? Before it’s too late!”

There is strife within the tempest
But calm in the eye of the storm

*Mable looks up from the counter as Jess enters and just studies her for a moment. A bit of worry washing over her. Going over to the window to the kitchen Mable talks to Carson.*

“Isn’t that one of your friends there? She doesn’t look to good.”

*Herb throws Mable a look.*

“Don’t go starting anything.”

*Mable looks to Herb and lets out a long sigh.*

“I was just concerned is all.”

There is no love untouched by hate
No unity without discord
there is no courage without fear
there is no peace without a war
there is no wisdom without regret
No admiration without scorn
there is strife within the tempest
but there is calm in the eye of the storm

To: Mike

From: A. Lockheart

Re: Need to go out

Sounds like fun, I could use the night out.

A date out it is.

-Angelica

*Smiling she hits send. She had gotten use to working at TJY now and spending a little more time with Mike. Going out tonight would be good. She had just come back from Cali after a mishap had happened at her ferm and just a little bit of calmness in the eye of the storm would be nice.*

but there is calm in the eye of the storm