Battle won, life lost

Jason glances in the rearview mirror, a little surprised at the communication. It’s fine, he reassures. This is a simple task. It’s supposed to be easy. He masks his own worry, emitting only confidence. Just relax.

Scott pauses as Katie stops him and turns, smiling at the kiss to his cheek. “I know,” he whispers back. Putting a hand to the side of her face, he cradles it for just a moment before finally stepping out. “No worries.”

He reaches back inside to hit a button on his computer to take down the security system. “Be back in two shakes.” Keeping low, he jogs down the street, across, and to the property. Climbing up over the fence, he scans the area, then dodges to the side of the house where the room was. Finding the window, he peeks inside. No one was there. It doesn’t take him long to get inside, and he makes it before the security is back on.

The van watches him, keeping a close eye on the surroundings. “Good. He’s in.” Reese nods. “Scott, you with us, buddy?”

“Yeah.” His voice comes over low and whispered. “The computer’s not here.”

“What?!”

“I’m gonna have to look for it.”

“Tipman,” Reese growls. “Alright, Scott. But watch yourself.”

“Right.” It’s several more tense minutes until Scott is finally heard again. “Okay. I found it. It’s at the other corner.”

Reese rolls his eyes. “Score one for the FBI. Are you secure?”

“Yeah, no problem... here we go....let me work my magic."

Jason grins and shakes his head, listening to Scott talk as they can hear the clicking of keys in the background.

"Wow... do we got dirt on these guys..."

"Good." Reese taps a hand on the steering wheel. "Find what we need, get them transferred and get out of there. Two more people just arrived... some source Tipman has."

"Okay, okay...here we go... rats...password..."

The tension in the van rises. Though not taking much time, it seems to be hours.

Suddenly the typing sounds stop and Scott's voice is a whisper. "They're close...I hear them outside the door."

"Just stay where you are and be quiet," Reese directs.

There is some sound of shuffling and clicking, then muffled voices. Jason exchanges a glance with Katie. Every fiber in him wanted to storm the door and get Scott out of there before something happened.

Finally Scott is back. "Alright, they're gone. Thank goodness for closets. Now I gotta start all over again though."

Reese wipes the sweat from his brow. "Take it easy...don't rush, but don't dawdle."

Suddenly a new car comes around the corner, parking in front of the building. Jason is on edge. "Whoa whoa, who's this? Those aren't Becker's men."

Reese straightens and gets on the radio. "Hal, you watching?"

"Sure am."

"Who we got here? Any idea?"

"Mmm...give me a sec....yeah...yeah, that's Rhinards...he's Becker's number one competition on the streets. They've been at war for years."

"Well why on earth would he be here?"

"I don't know, but you better watch it."

Reese's jaw tightens. "Scott...how you coming?"

"Just got past the first security level. Once I'm into the second I can start the transfer. I gotta have a few more minutes."

Reese glances at his watch, then looks as the newcomer and his thug get out of their car and go to the front door. There is a brief confrontation with the flashing of guns, then the visitors go inside.

Jason looks to Reese, then Kate, and Nate, then back at the house. What was going on? He takes a deep breath. All they needed was to get those files transferred. No battle...just in and out. Come on, Scott, come on.

"We're in business, folks." Scott's voice is even, despite the breakthrough. "Level two down and..."

There's suddenly more background noise, thumping and banging, then loud voices.

"What the..."

"Scott, get out of there," Reese directs. "We got two drug lords in there and they're not happy."

"They're down the hall. I got a minute. This is our only chance and the transfer is starting. It's gotta go through all the way or we got nothing."

"Not worth it. Get out."

"Not worth it?" The clicking of keys can still be heard. "Kids' lives who these drugs are going to? Kids on the streets manipulated by these scumbags? How many more will die unless we stop them?"

The shouting grows louder and suddenly a shot is fired.

Reese's voice grows more stern. "Scott get out - that's a direct order."

"Forty-three seconds."

"Come on."

All of a sudden there is chaos at the building. Men burst out the front door, stumbling over one another, racing for their cars. Both sides weren't arguing, but fleeing.

Jason's hand goes to the door handle. "What happened? Scott, what happened?"

"Don't know. Twenty seconds."

Reese heart races. "I don't like this. Something isn't right." The vehicles speed away. "Why did they leave...what's going on...?"

"Get him out of there!" Hal's desperate voice comes over the radio. "There's a bomb!"

Reese wastes no time. "Scott, move! Leave it!"

"Come on, come on." Shuffling sounds.

The computer screen in the van suddenly comes to life with all of the transferred files popping up, feeding them all the information and more.

"Alright we got it. I'm outta here. Hit the security, Katie. Just don't..."

Reese's eyes scan the area, looking for Scott to appear from the same side as where he'd gone in. "Where are you, Scott?"

"I'm...." Static, silence, static. "Security..." Static. "...locked windows... have to..." Static.

"What?!" Reese's door flies open as he steps out, not willing to wait any longer. "Hal, they must have locked up the place. Scott can't get out. Where's the power supply?"

"Around back, around back. They wired the place. Bars on the windows. His only chance is the front door! Get to the power supply!"

Scott's voice comes across again. "No, don't! Get out of here! Get the files to the FBI. Reese - the disc is in my safe, I..."

What happens next could only be a nightmare.

The explosion engulfs the building in a burst of heat, sending a brilliant flash followed by smoke and debris.

The ground shakes.

The sound is deafening.

Reese staggers backward, hitting the van.

"No!" Jason's scream is followed by the glass shattering in the van window from an unintentional burst of emotions. He's outside in an instant, but Reese grabs Jason's arms, still shouting into his mic. "Scott? Scott! Come on...dang it! Scott!"

Silence.

Eyes waited. But no form emerged. No voice answered. Time suddenly seemed lethargic, and sounds muddled together. This couldn't be real.


...while inside the van, the computer displays a triumph...a task executed...a case won...

To easy

*Katie watches over Scott's shoulder as her types and talks about the security system before sitting back down. The feeling still lingering in her stomach. Looking to Jason she wonders if he can feel the emotional pull that was surging in her at the moment. Putting all the feelings together for a moment Katie sends a message on its way.

I don't like the feeling I am getting about this J. It all seems to easy.

Sitting back for a moment Katie lets out a long sigh before looking out the window and servaying the area again.

As the minutes pass and Scott gets ready to leave Katie sits up and stops him. Turning her arms around him and giving him a small kiss on the cheek Katie whispers.*

"I love you Scotty! Be safe and make it back to us ok."

*Jess finishs off her pop and pushes the glass to the side.*

"Mmmm....I think if you keep me warm it will be just fine."

*Jess stands and leans over the counter giving Carson another small kiss before steping away from the counter and throwing another smile at Carson.*

"Just give me a call when you get out. I'll be ready and waiting."

Geronimo

Carson's eyes twinkle. "A hot Aussie, huh? I wonder where you could dig one of those up at."

He wipes the counter with his towel automatically, habit taking over. "I'd suggest a movie, but I just spent my paycheck on an insurance bill. So it looks like I've got enough for a quick burger and a chilly stroll to the park. Or is that not hot enough for you?"


Scott looks to Katie as she taps his foot, and gives her a grin and a wink. He reaches over to tap his knuckles on her chin in a teasing punch.

The van starts forward, and he remains silent, trying to hide his nervousness.

It doesn’t take long before they’re at their destination, about a block and a half away, parking on the street.

Reese looks through the binoculars to the large house within the well-kept property. At the edge of town away from other buildings, it looked even larger than it was. An iron fence surrounded the yard, security cameras and wiring everywhere. Two vehicles were in the driveway.

“Dang it.” Reese scowls. “Tipman said there would be no one here.”

Jason quirks an eyebrow. “Looks like they were wrong.”

Reese shakes his head. “We’re going to have to be more careful about shutting down the security system. Scott, can you handle it?”

Scott flips open his laptop. “Right-oh.” It doesn’t take him long as he types away, finally nodding. “Okay. When I hit it, the security will go down. Anyone watching monitors will think it’s a glitch. It will give me three minutes to get inside, then it’s back on so no one suspects anything.”

“What about on your way back?”

“Hit it again.” Scott gestures to Katie, showing her. “Where are those blueprints?”

“Here.” Reese hands them back to Scott. “Tipman’s sources say the computer is in the room in the south corner. It’s marked.”

Scott nods as he looks at it. “There’s a window there. If no one’s in the room, I should be alright.”

Jason gives a little sigh at Reese. “You sure you want him in there alone?”

Scott answers him instead. “One of us is less likely to be seen. There’s only two guys in there. Get in, get out, remember?” He grins. “Don’t trust the new guy?”

Jason rolls his eyes. “Get out of here.”

Scott chuckles. “Alright.” He puts on his headpiece with mic and slides open the van door. “Geronimo.”

Except

*Katie leaves Scott's office her backpack slung over her shoulder. She did not like how she felt about this mission. Something felt wrong, something was out of place. It all seemed to easy. Katie made a mentil note and would stay on guard even more.

Exiting TJY she gets into the back of the van followed by Nate who sat next to her. Receving Reese check Katie gives a nod that she could hear and was ready. Leaning her head aganst the van she sits and waits giving one last check to her gun to make sure it was working just in case. Taking her foot it finds Scott's as it tape it for a moment. A smile spreads across her face as she smiles up at him.*

*Jess smiles across the counter at Carson and returns the kiss.*

"Well, I'm done with work now so I though I'd come and see you than maybe some more apartment hunting. Than hang out at home for a little while awaiting the phone call of a hot aussie who would be getting out of work and see if maybe we could spend some time together."

*Jess sits back in her chair and sips the soda that Aerith had braught her.*

"Nothing to exciting except for the hang out part."

Feelings

Scott is a little surprised by Katie's worry, but he rises to his feet, returning her hug. "Well seeing as though Reese has never put me in the field before, I guess I'm not a hundred percent, but I don't see I have much of a choice. And I'm not talking about a direct order."

He steps back so he can see Katie's face, his hands resting on her shoulders. "Too many lives are being ruined by this guy. I've been given a prime opportunity to help take him and his men down - I can't pass that up. Reese chose me for a reason - it's gonna take some hefty hacking and he trusts me. He wants you outside watching my back."

He grins and cocks his head. "Quit worrying. We pull up, I sneak through the window, get on the computer, work my magic and get out again. Sources even says there shouldn't be anyone around, so the house will be all mine."

A chuckle escapes. "And how could I not want to take the opportunity to dress in black?"

Giving Katie another quick but firm hug, he lets her go. "Get going. I'll be with you guys in a few minutes."

After she leaves his office, Scott sinks down in his chair and looks at his computer screen. He'd been more confident with her than he really was... It wasn't that the whole idea bothered him...he'd gone through some basic training when he'd taken this job. It was just something...didn't feel right.

Glancing to the small safe beside his desk, Scott thinks for a moment. It had just been a week before that he'd come up with the notion of adding something to the disc that was inside. Coincidence?

Shaking off his weird feelings, he gets back up from his desk to get ready.


On schedule, everyone is out back in the garage, loading into the van. Reese is behind the steering wheel, checking off supplies and making sure all the mics work. "Katie, you read me? Nate? Jase? Scott?"

Receiving nods, he switches to the radio. "Hal, you alive?"

"Alive and ready. Got you in my sites. Give me more on the camera."

Reese leans to the camera on the dashboard and makes a few adjustments.

"Perfect."

Reese looks to his side where Jason was riding shotgun, then to the back with the others. "Alright guys. You know the drill. Keep it cool, keep it low."


A chuckle can be heard from the kitchen as Carson finishes up the food he was preparing, before he comes out to the counter. Leaning his hands on it, he gives Jess a wry grin. "You can complain to Herb all you want..." His tone gets a little louder on purpose, knowing Herb will hear him from beyond the wall. "...won't do any good though, the slave driver."

Still grinning, Carson leans forward to give Jess a quick kiss. "So what's up today, babe? Anything exciting?"


"This is great man, thanks for the help. We shouldn't have to stay too long."

Mike looks across the living room to Rocky and shakes his head. "You guys can stay as long as you want. I just hated seeing you spend your money on that hotel for so long. Not that you'll want to stay on couches and floors for too long, but you're more than welcome."

"Who's on floors?" Taylor grins from her seat in one of the overstuffed chairs. "Oh, that's right," she teases. "I'm the one who got the spare bed."

Axel throws a paper airplane at her from his position on the floor in front of the couch. "Don't rub it in."

Taylor sticks her tongue out at him. "Woman's privilege."

Axel grins a little, then looks to Mike. "Who's bike in the garage?"

"Oh, that's Jason's."

"Really?"

"Yeah. He wrecked it a while back, but his knee was bad enough that he shouldn't have been riding anyway, so he's just storing it here until he can get around to getting it fixed when he can ride again. I'm actually surprised he hasn't been on the road with it yet, though it's been a little chilly and I'm not sure he's got the money right now for the repairs."

Axel quirks an eyebrow. "I see." He thinks for a moment. "How far is it to town?"

Mike shrugs. "We're about five miles out. Why?"

"Thinking about taking a walk."

Max's eyes widen. "To town? Are you nuts?"

"I like walking."

Max rolls his eyes. "I forgot. Oh, hey, I saw you got a package from Derek yesterday. Music?"

Axel nods. "Yep."

100%

*As the meeting breaks up and everyone goes there own way Katie stays behind for a moment. Going to the gun cabnit she scans the fire arms and grabs some more amo just in case. Though hesatating for a moment something just didn't feel right. She had a feeling, and she didnt like it. Maybe it was just nerves. It had been a little bit since anyone had been in the field it could just be butterflys all over. Shruging it off Katie heads back up to the main floor and to her desk putting some things into her bag to take along and making sure her firearm was sacure.

Having everything she needed Katie starts to make her way to the front but stops backtracking to Scott's office. Giving a soft tap on the door she enters seeing Scott sitting at her desk. Giving him a small smile Katie walks over to him and leans down to give him a hug.

Though the last few weeks had been differnt with them both trying to push off the inavatable Katie still cared and loved Scott. That would never change. Still imbracing Scott Katie finally speaks.*

"Are you sure you wan't to do this Scotty? I can always go in, instead. I just want you to be 100% sure about going in there hun."

*The small bell to Mom and Pop's rings as Jess enters. Looking up at the clock on the wall she smiles and shakes her head. It was 12:30 sharp. This had been one of her normal times showing up here to see Carson.

With Peter behind bars now, Angelica making sure of it Jess felt even safer walking around. Though not back to 100% she felt much better than she had from prevouse weeks. Being back home in her own apartment was nice though Jess was looking to move. Once and a while being there she ran into Velvet or Shawn and no longer felt comfortable even talking with them not to mentin being hooked up with Carson she wouldnt want to ask him over and have him run into them bring up bad memories.

Jess was doing her best saving up money at the new job she had. She was working as an organizer for a local phatogrpher. It wasnt much, and the pay wasnt great, Jess wished she herself was the one taking the pictures but money was money and it would good till something better came along.

Sitting down at the small counter Jess gives a wave to Aerith.*

*Aerith smiles as she see Jess. It was normal now, and it was nice to see her giving somewhat of a real smile now.*

"Hey Jess, your a little later today. Was starting to get worryed."

"Yeah, I had to finish up some filing before I could get out for the day it took me longer than I exspected."

*Aerith gives a nod as she heads over to the window to the kitchen.*

"Hey Carson, Jess finally made it."

*Jess can't help the smile that became a little bigger as streches her neck a little to see into the kitchen giving a wave and blowing a kiss to Carson.*

"Don't work to hard or I will have to complain to you boss."

Speeding through time

The ringing phone makes Bret groan. He doesn’t want to answer it. He doesn’t want to move yet. But he knew it would be better to take the call than risk a message on the machine that he might not appreciate Charlotte hearing.

Reaching over his head, he fumbles for the receiver, knocking it to the floor before finally getting a hold on it. “Yeah, hello….Lee, what…” His tone is annoyed. “Look, I thought that…well no, but…” He sighs with exasperation. “Alright…fine…. What’s that? Oh, really? …why? …I see…yeah…no…how long? That long? …of course I got it, I’m not stupid. …Yeah, just tell him I’ll be waiting then.”

Hanging up, he gives a deep sigh, and reaches down to squeeze Charlotte’s shoulder, knowing she’s awake by now. “Well, babe, looks like you got me today too. Change in plans.” In reality, they’d been delayed. Someone had gotten too close sniffing around, and word had almost leaked out. It was time to lay low for just a while longer.


Scott eventually wakes and seeing Katie awake too, moves a little bit as his leg has fallen asleep.

Feeling the movement, Domino’s head snaps up as she squints in the light. Standing up, she yawns and stretches, crawling up over Katie to sprawl between her friend and master.

Scott grins and reaches over to scratch her head. He turns to Katie then, offering her a weary smile. "Hey you. How about some breakfast? Then I better get you home and to work or Reese will be after me."


Carson stands up too, and takes a hand to ruffle Jess' hair. "Don't apologize. I was just as tired as you. And yeah - stop by any time. I'll have a break this afternoon."

Waiting until she leaves, he finally turns and heads to the back, waving at Herb on his way. "Be right in," he calls into the kitchen. Cleaning up for the day, he realizes the bandage that is still on his arm, and peels it off, revealing his permanent reminder. The eagle now clutched a blowing ribbon with Misty on it. No matter who Carson was with, or where his future led, this would remind him... of what he had lost...of what he had to lose...of what choices can really do to a person...

Shaking his head, Carson finishes up and heads to the kitchen for the day. His step was just a little lighter this morning...perhaps there were rays of hope after all.


And so it was. Individuals and pairs had no choice but to move forward as time ticked away.

While Carson and Jess spent more time together, usually at Mom and Pop's during the evenings after hours, across town, Bret and Charlotte also continued their relationship.

Scott and Katie began to do less together, the inevitable going unspoken for now. Their times together were still happy...whether just at work, or with Domino in the park... even though both sensed a future apart.

Jason avoided the subject with Katie, keeping the feelings around it tucked away, but remaining willing to hang out around work.

Misty and Kyle kept up their time together, Kyle's voice improving every day, and his hand showing a remarkably fast recovery under Rick's watchful eye.

Jason and Katie's trip to Texas was postponed for just a short while, both wanting to stay for Con and Jamie's wedding. It was a small and sweet wedding at the church, filled with immediate family and those from TJY. The newlyweds left for their four-day honeymoon, returning to live in Jamie's house indefinitely. Happiness reigned... never had two smiles been bigger, or two hearts more filled with love.


And so it came to be. Life shifts. Life moves on. Some things stay the same. Others change drastically. But time does not give up - it only marches on...


“Alright, guys…” Reese stands in front of the room downstairs, looking at Nate, Jason, Katie, Scott and Hal who were sitting down. “You’ve all been given the rundown. Becker’s a drug dealer that the cops can’t get. The FBI has handed us this case in a last ditch effort. We could be offended by that, but we’ll take it as an opportunity to prove we know our stuff. Becker has eluded authorities and can’t seem to get caught in the act of anything. Sources say that at his place outside of town, he has a computer with all the information of contacts, past drug deals and future setups. What the FBI wants are those files.”

Reese pauses to look over the notepad in his hand. “What we need to do is get someone inside the house, get to the computer, transfer the files, then get out again. We want to do it without being seen and without a fight. I have a layout of the house and the location of the room we know the computer is in. Jason, Katie and Nate, I want you in the van with me where we’ll be parked about two blocks away for surveillance. And Scott, I’ve talked to you about going in.”

Hal raises his hand. “All due respect…but Scott’s never been out on the field. He’s our communicator.”

“I know. But we need the best for this so that we can hack into Becker’s system and get the information we need. That’s why I want you back here instead, keeping tabs on things.”

After a few more brief instructions, Reese closes the meeting. “We have one hour. We’ll meet in the garage. Go to it.”

The others make their way out of the room to prepare. Jason heads up to his office to grab a few things, while Scott goes to his own office as well. Sinking down in his chair, he heaves a sigh. Reese had talked to him about this several weeks ago, but he still wasn’t so sure about it. He was used to staying behind or at least in a vehicle – not to be one in on the action. But…if they needed him, what could he say? Not to mention, he was more than glad to help take this Becker down. There were too many kids' lives being ruined by the drugs he was putting out. It was high time it stopped.

A little help

*Continuing to look up at Carson Jess takes in his warmth and comfort. Carson's words giving her a hope. This was the start of the healing. Maybe nothing grand would come of it but for now Jess new they both needed this. For now, this was right.*

"For a little while I did, but than with some help I remembered."

*As the night draws on Jess and Carson talk, nothing to deep on this night but getting to know each other a little more...the soft voice echoing through Mom and Pop's as the emptyness welcoming the two new people who had found each other. The laughter every once and a while being obsorbed till finally in the wee hours of the morning the voices die, and the eyes close without warning offering good dreams for tonight.*

Night comes, and than goes morning coming at last. The colors shooting through the sky waking those for the day.

*Katie eyes slowly open as the rays of light enter through the curtins. Blinking it takes her only a moment to remember where she is. Feeling a lump behind her Katie lifts her head and turns it giving a smile at the snoring Domino next to her. Than turning her head the other way Katie just watches Scott sleep for a long moment. Leting out a sigh her mind movies as she shifts through her thoughts and feelings in no hurry to wake Scott. He looked so at peace and for some reason Katie felt a wave of lonlyness and a cold chill. Like a hard change was in the wind.*

*Jess lets out a little noise signaling she was waking as she felt Carson's hand to her face and the sound of his voice tighting her squeeze around him for a moment. Releasing her grip and sitting up Jess moves her neck side to side trying to get the kink out.*

"Sorry I feel alseep on you. I guess I was just to comfortable to move."

*Leaning over Jess gives Carson a quick kiss and than slids out of the booth giving a streach.*

" I guess I better let you go so you can work and not get into trouble. A shower is sounding pretty good right about now too. I'll stop by a little but later though if you want."

*For a moment Herb stands at the swing doors that lead out in the dinning room looknig out. Startled at first to see Carson out there with his friend but than a smile forms on his face as he can see the small spark in Carson's eyes and the smile that had been absent from the girls face for a while. Not even one thought of something inmoral cross Herb's mind. Decieding to leave them be for now he heads into the kitchena dn turns the fryers and grill on to warm up as he starts his prep knowing Mable would be on her way in shortly.*

Morning light

Carson strokes Jess’ arm as she leans into him. It felt good to have someone with him again…there wasn’t a deep relationship between him and Jess…but neither were they flippant like he and Velvet had been. No…it felt good to be cared about again…and to be able to offer care in return. He had missed being someone’s shelter…being needed…knowing that someone could find comfort in him.

He lowers his eyes to see Jess’ as she looks up at him, his faint smile remaining. “I’m glad too,” he replies quietly. “For a while there I thought you’d forgotten how to shine.”

He leans his head back and closes his eyes, quiet for several minutes, just thinking. He hadn’t planned on any relationships…especially this soon after everything had happened. But it didn’t seem hard with Jess. She needed someone…and in a way, he needed someone too. Though so very different, both needed a chance to pick themselves up and start over. Perhaps each had a different path to follow – but for now, starting out together wasn’t an unpleasant thought.

Carson gives Jess a little squeeze. “Then I guess we let time take its course while we pretend we’re the ones in control.”

After another few moments, he shifts his weight again, finding his position uncomfortable. Bringing his legs back under the table, he sits Jess up for a moment as he sits back straighter against the wall, bringing one leg up behind her, and stretching out on their booth. In the end, he’s stretched out with Jess between his legs, her head back on his chest.

“So…you like strawberry milkshakes and you like to play cards. You realize that is the extent of my knowledge…”


Scott cracks an eye open just enough to see the late time the digital clock on his DVD player is showing, then glances to his side where Katie still lay. Her steady breathing indicated she’d fallen asleep just as he had. Domino still lay curled up behind her too, also dead to the world.

Instead of waking anyone up, Scott just settles his head back down in the couch. Knowing this might be the last night like this, he was willing to let it last as long as he could.


Bret’s hand runs through Charlotte’s hair as the movie’s music plays, the credits rolling. He was comfortable…too comfortable to want to get up…too comfortable to tell Charlotte to go home.

Reaching for the remote, he keeps a firm hand on Charlotte to let her know she doesn’t have to move, and he shuts the tv off. The living room grows dark and quiet and Bret’s eyes drift shut.


...Carson opens his eyes and scans the room. I takes him a minute to realize where he was…he was still in the booth at Mom and Pop’s. He didn’t even know what time he’d fallen asleep. He and Jess had stayed up so late talking that time simply hadn’t mattered anymore. He couldn’t recall everything that had been said…most of it was just small talk… but both had felt so comfortable that neither had wanted to move or leave.

Now the morning light was starting to come through the windows, signaling the arrival of a new day. A sound from the back alerts Carson to someone coming in through the back entrance. Herb.

He gently runs a finger down the side of Jess’ face, tucking her hair behind her ear. “Hey,” he prompts quietly. “Sleepyhead…I gotta get to work.”

Shadows Beauty

*As Carson withdraws from the kiss Jess stairs back. Scaning his face, searching the eyes that had captavated her. Seeing a bit of Carson's old spark in his eyes again makes Jess herself grin and her eyes sparkle for a moment showing the lost smile, and color they once had.

Giving a small shutter as a chill runs up her spine Jess closes her eyes feeling Carson's fingers run up her arm, neck and over her lips. His touch was rough but had a certin softness to her that gave her comfort.

Giving a small kiss to Carson's finger as it pass over her lips Jess rests her head on his chest as his arms wrap around her. Softly she replys.*

"I'm not disapointed. I like the real Carson."

*Wrapping her own arms around Carson the one behind his back and the other draped over him Jess just sits completely comfortable. Something about Carson made Jess feel ok, and didn't make her feel bad about herself. Maybe it was that Carson accepted her knowing the past and everything that happend.

Staying silent for a moment longer Jess just takes in the moment, the comfrote and the feeling that made her smile. This feeling was new, but she liked it. For once she felt real...worth more than a lowlife.

After several more moments Jess finally moves her head just a little looking up at Carson still resting her head on his chest she was able to see his face. Finally in a soft voice Jess asks.*

"So what do we do now? Anything. Something. So long as we don't so nothing. If we screw it up, we can start over. Try something else. If we wait until we've satisfied all the uncertainties, it may be too late. I'm glad I took the risk to let you see my shadows beauty."

Spark

Carson glances up at Jess as she pulls away and slips out of the booth. He’d almost think she was leaving, had her hand not stayed in his.

As she moves around to his side of the table, he slides over just a little, shifting his position to face her more.

His eyes meet hers again… no words need to be spoken. The acceptance in his gaze signals that he’ll allow the return, and he does. His palm turns against hers to lace his fingers in between her own as his other hand wraps around her waist, bringing her close.

Carson lets the exchange linger, in no hurry to end as he feels Jess’ own passion colliding with his own.

Slowly sliding back further to the wall, Carson leans back resting in the corner. Gently withdrawing from the kiss, he eyes Jess, a spark of the old boldness flashing in his stare, the confident air drifting over him as just the very corner of his mouth starts to upturn.

Letting go of her hand, he runs his fingers up her arm and neck to her face, his thumb gliding over her lips. Taking a deep breath, he settles back, lifting his feet to rest them on the opposite booth under the table.

He turns Jess slightly and pulls her close so her head is resting against his chest, his arm wrapped around her. “I guess you found the real Carson Banks,” he whispers softly.

Closer

*Feeling Carson's hand run through her hair and his other locking fingers with her own the feeling of acceptance washes over her.

Carson's kiss was like the taste of honey, the sweet taste that you couldn't get enough of. Jess had been so scared and nervous to even think of being close to anyone alse but Carson was different, feeling him so close to her she wasn't scared. She felt comfortable with him and confadent he wouldn't hurt her.

Jess hand stays lock with Carson's as she pulls away for a moment. Still holding his hand Jess slips out of her booth and comes around to the other side, sliding in with Carson.

Smiling again Jess reachs out turning Carson a little to face her and wrapping her free arm around him drawing him slightly closer to her. As she starts to lean in again she bites her bottom lip and searchs Carson's eyes for a moment before returning to continue the kiss. Keeping her arm on his back she gently rubs is and her other hand interlocked with his own leting the passion, the bliss, the pure sweetness continue.*

Logic

Carson can feel his pulse rate pick up as Jess brings her hand to his face. He doesn’t move, just letting the moment slip by like the second hand on a clock slowing down against the law of time.

Her words tantalize his ears and pull at his heart, daring him to open up…defying his will to stand firm against his retaliation of letting anyone close again.

His eyes roam between hers as they near, their gaze almost drawing him in to a state where nothing else around them seems to matter anymore.

As Jess presses her lips to his, then returns again, his eyes close, every fiber in his being pointing at the red flags in the back of his mind. And for several seconds, he doesn’t move, just allowing Jess to come…allowing her to kiss him.

But his actions don’t listen to his logic anymore. Drawn in too far by Jess’ action to resist, one hand reaches up to cradle her face, his rough palm almost becoming soft against her velvet-like skin.

Slowly he begins to return the kiss, gently, then more firmly, cocking his head as his fingers make their way to her hair. His other hand slides up to hers that’s against his face, taking it in his own to lock her fingers in his, feeling her slight tremble, his own pulse racing.

Beholder

*Jess can't help the smile that spreads across her face slowly. A smile that her face had lacked for a long while, as she felt a confidence she hadn't ever before. A strange feeling churns in her stomach and unexpected but good feeling.

As if time stops Jess only see Carson as everything alse around her fades away. And Jess almost feels her actions are not her own as she takes a chance with a quivering hand.*

"So we both have something alse in common than, but even the dreamless shadows confined to a darkness of there own mind have beauty in them."

*Jess brings a hand to the side of Carson's face as her thumb runs across his cheekbone as her finger still trembles slightly.*

"And disappointment is sometimes a risk the beholder is willing to take, but let them make that decision, don't make it for them."

*Jess voice almost drops off into a whisper, a soft tone that drifts through the air.*

"Who is the real Carson Banks? I'd like to take that risk and get to know him."

*Jess leans forward as her pulse starts to race. Her breathing quacking slightly, as her lips press to Carson's for a moment only to withdraw and than return in the other direction once again for more.*

Risks

Carson stares at Jess as she studies his eyes, his own studying right back. What was her angle… Why did she see those things…and were they real?

He blinks and drops his gaze, contemplating for a moment. Finally he straightens up so he’s facing forward in his seat, swinging his feet back down on the floor. Leaning his elbows on the table, he stares down into his own milkshake, still finding it too thick to suck through his straw.

“The one who can read my eyes can read my soul. And the one who reads my soul risks seeing who I really am.”

Letting his gaze drift back up, he realizes he’s only inches from Jess’s own eyes and he swallows hard, his voice’s tone lowering. “And those seeing who I really am risk disappointment. For I’m but a dreamless shadow of who they believed me to be.”

Endless

*Jess lets out a small sigh.*

"You know your capable of having dreams and achieving them just like me."

*Jess is quiet again as she plays with a strawberry that is stuck in the bottom of her glass trying to get it out.*

"I like just looking around and finding the good in anything. Like this strawberry."

*Jess pulls her legs underneath her and leans over the table getting a little bit closer to Carson and tilting her glass just a tad so he can see in the glass.*

"Look how it lays in the milkshake only a bit of it covered in pink while the rest of the red and green stick out. It seems, artistic to me."

*Jess looks up at Carson and gives a small nod. Her eyes proving she liked talking about this.

Searching Carson's eyes for a moment Jess finally talks again a different tone in her voice. One that she's she was deep in thought and was thinking about this before.*

"And take your eyes for instance as well, they are amazing Carson. They have a depth that lasts forever, they hold a certain sadness but yet there is light somewhere deep in them. There almost luring, as if they echo and call for someone. You have, nice eyes."

*Jess holds her gaze, just looking into the endless blue of Carson's eyes. To Jess they said so many things, they and they made her feel safe.*

Pieces

Carson's eyes narrow slightly, a small smile on his lips. "It's the special ones that can make dreams come true...and you're special enough to do it. Don't sell yourself short. You got a lot of life left."

Taking his straw, he tries to suck some more milkshake, but finds it difficult. Grimacing, he stirs it around. "I think I made this one too thick."

As Jess asks him what his own dreams are, he pauses, his eye on the table. Looking back up to her, and staring hat her eyes, he shakes his head. "A guy like me doesn't have dreams, Jess. All he has are broken pieces of a past he wishes was a dream."

Carson swirls around his straw in his glass, realizing the hypocritical attitude he had...he was encouraging Jess to dream, while at he same time eliminating himself from that equation. Sighing a little, he shakes his head again. "I guess I wouldn't know what to dream for anyway...all I've ever done is live for today."

He tries to revert the topic back to Jess. "So...photography, huh? Nature? Animals? People?"


Bret is grateful that Charlotte doesn't press the issue, and enjoys her presence and the kiss she offers again. Standing up, he takes her by the shoulders and points her to the living room. "Dishes can wait. It's movie time, and I'd say tonight is a good drama night..."

He goes over to his rack of DVDs, finding one he wants, and pops it in the player. Flopping down on the couch, he hooks Charlotte with his feet to bring her down too, locking her between his legs so she can't go do the dishes.

Only a dream

*Sitting down across from Carson, Jess leans her arms across her on the table and takes a sip of her milkshake. A smile spreads across her face again. Carson did make good shakes and Jess tummy was churning more than she wanted to admit.

Jess sips her milkshake in throught for a moment after Carson asks his question. She had never been asked that question before though she had thought of the answer many times. Never would she think about telling anyone for fear they would laugh. Someone like her with hardly any money was not cut out for it.*

"I don't have dreams really, only wishful thinking. Most my dreams are dark and foggy. Though I have one I can see clearly. Though I, guess I never did put a great deal of thought into it. I do have a dream but thats where it ends. I always wanted to go to college for photography and math. I like them both."

*Jess leans her head back aganst the booth and closes her eyes for a moment. An image rolling through her mind as she speaks. Almost being able to smell the air and feel the wind.*

"Traviling, in a yellow lambergine, the wind in my hair out to some place nice snaping pictures."

*Opening her eyes again Jess is braught back to the real world.*

"But that, is only a dream. I could never see it coming true. How about you Killer? What do your dreams look like?"

*Charlotte smiles at Bret from across the table. She could tell something was bothering him but decied for now not to ask. If he needed someone to talk to he new she was here. It's not that she didn't care but she learned along time ago not to push someone.*

" You beter believe it. I want to spend at least some time with you on my days off. However tomarrow I might flip a coin on cleaning your house again. It needs it."

*Charlotte grins and thans stands starting to clear the table and putting the left over food away. Coming back over to Bret Charlotte bends out giving him another quick kiss before finishing clearing the table.*

"Well I picked dinner, you pick the movie hun while I wash up these dishes."

Dreams

Laughter twinkles in Carson's eyes. "Thank you."

He moves with Jess to pick up the fallen chairs and try to finish cleaning up. It doesn't take too much longer and the cleaning is finally completed. Carson takes a few minutes in the kitchen and the emerges with a strawberry milkshake in one hand, and a vanilla in the other.

Picking a booth, he slides in one side and sets Jess' milkshake down on the other. Sitting sideways with his feet up on the seat, he settles back against the wall and sighs deeply. Tonight had been a nice distraction. It had gotten his mind off of unpleasant topics, and given him something different to think about.

Carson takes a sip of his milkshake, enjoying the cool treat. "Alright, Jess...what's said in here stays in here.... so tell me... what do your dreams look like? No holds barred - anything possible. Where do you want to be in five years?"


Bret takes a sip of water and keeps his gaze down on his plate. "Just an old pal of mine, stopping by. Kind of a pain, actually..."

His voice trails off as a sudden flashback hits him. Maria had confronted him about his so-called friends, and what they'd been doing. He'd skirted around the issue then just like he was now. And that had only contributed to his divorce.

He brings himself back and swallows hard, suddenly his appetite lessening as he stirs his fork around his food. "So... day after tomorrow you want to do something?"

What happens

*Cringing as the chairs fall Jess gives a small jump as the last one falls. Standing sunted for a moment Jess brings her hand to her mouth and for a moment a spark of life is seen in her eyes as a laugh escaps her lips. She couldn't help but see the humor for the moment in what had happend. Turning to Carson she puts her free hand over her hart.*

"What happens, at Mom and Pop's tonight stays at Mom and Pop's tonight. You have my word."

*Jess shakes her head as she puts the rag and cleaner down on one of the booths and starts to help pick up the chairs and placing them on the table tops again.*

*Charlotte smiles back at Bret knowing good and well what he ment. Pushing off the counter she steps away from him walking backwards for a few moments with a grin on her face.*

"Dinner, sounds good. It should be done momentarly."

*Turning back around Charlotte starts to finish the dinner.*

"Hun can you set the table for me?"

*Stiring and tossing the smell of the stir fry drifts through the air and smells so mouth watering. Emptying it into a serving bowl she places it on the table and grabs them something to drink finally ready to sit down and to have the meal.

The conversation was kept light and the dinner continues and finally Charlotte remembers what she wanted to ask Bret before but forgot.*

"Who was that at the door before hun?"

Chairs

“Mm.” Bret is caught off guard but has no problem accepting or returning Charlotte’s kiss. He pulls her even tighter to himself, cocking his head and leaning into the exchange. Backing up a couple steps, he’s pressed back against the counter, the sizzling food going ignored as the passion lasts.

Just a little abruptly though, Bret’s hands slide from Charlotte’s back and find the counter on each side of himself. He lets the kiss continue for another moment, but then pulls away, his face slightly red as he strums his fingers restlessly on the counter.

“Supper,” he comments lamely. “We definitely need to eat supper.”


Carson chuckles and shakes his head, but lets Jess help clean. If it made her feel good, he wasn’t about to stop her.

With the radio going and the warm temperature in the room, it created a somewhat cozy atmosphere, despite the need to clean.

Turning chairs upside down on the tables to mop, Carson works as he normally does, knowing the routine well. At one point though, while he’s mopping, he doesn’t pay attention to where he’s going, and he backs right into Jess.

Spinning around, he laughs. “Sorry, I wasn’t watching…” As he speaks, he turns back around, his mop hitting one of the upturned chairs. Too late…it falls. And like a row of dominos, one by one, each chair on the tables clatter and bang to the floor, creating a resounding crash throughout the room. And all Carson can do is stand with his eyes wide and watch until the last chair has bounced to it’s fate.

He blinks and just stares… Finally he turns his head to Jess. “This goes no further…you got that?”


Scott lets Katie nestle into him as he eases down partially on his side, leaning against the armrest of the couch. How many times had they been here before? How many times had they sat like this, just enjoying each other’s company? Would this be the last?

His one hand holds hers, while his other lays across her shoulders, just holding her close.

The dim light in the living room and the dark television makes for a quiet atmosphere, but it’s not minded. The only sound is Domino racing back and forth with her toy, finally stopping and realizing that she’s the only one playing. She gives a little sigh and drops her toy. Surveying the couch, she hops up on the end and crawls up next to Katie, finding a nice little pocket to curl up in.

Scott’s mind wanders as his fingers slowly stroke Katie’s arm. He hadn’t told her everything…but it was still in his mind…

“Look, if this is about Katie and me…”

It hadn’t been. It had only been a business lunch. Reese had wanted them to discuss a delicate case privately, away from the office. But it had turned into an unexpected personal meeting.

“What do you mean? What are you talking about?”

Jason had immediately discovered his mistake. “Aw man…I’m sorry.” His words had been genuine.

The conversation had been civil, despite the tension. Scott had questioned Jason’s starting statement, and had found out the hard way about the night at Mom and Pop’s.

“…we were out back…I guess I was flirting with her, I don’t know…it just…she came up and kissed me.”

Scott’s heart had sunk. He’d suspected that Katie still had feelings for Jason, but knowing they’d kissed brought on a disappointment he hadn’t been ready for.

Jason had defended. “…I told her no…it didn’t feel right…I tried to leave and we argued. I got too riled and had an attack. Katie took me home and took care of me for the night…and that was that.”

His explanation was honest enough. Scott believed him, and had appreciated the openness. He hadn’t expected Jason to share as easily as he had…maybe Jason had simply known I was too late to try to hide anything.

They’d discussed the past a little…Scott had questioned the connection between Jason and Katie and how it affected other things. He’d found out more about the emotional bond. Then Scott had asked what he really wanted to know. “What about you, Jason…do you still love her?”

Jason hadn’t answered right away. There had been a long silence, and Scott had had to force Jason to look at him, repeating the question. “Do you?”

Jason had looked him square in the eye. “No.”

Part of Scott wanted to be glad with that comment. If Jason didn’t love Katie, then she couldn’t very well pursue him. Though at the same time, it was disheartening to think that she might be loving a man who didn’t return that love and never would.

And yet… Scott wondered. Jason’s tone didn’t lie…his eyes didn’t lie…but he was a master of emotions and Scott wouldn’t find it hard to believe if Jason could fool a lie detector.

Scott had been surprised at the answer…he’d thought Jason still had feelings for Katie too, with the way they interacted, especially lately. He wasn’t blind. But why would Jason lie? Didn’t he have more to gain if he would admit this love than hide it? Or was he hiding it because he thought Katie was better off with someone else? If that were the case, Scott would have to commend him for having guts. At the same time though…if Jason did love Katie, he wasn’t being fair with her by not showing it.

This had turned out to be a mess… how, Scott didn’t know. But it had. And poor Katie was getting the brunt of the whole thing. All their futures rode on her decision. It wasn’t fair…but what else was there to do?

Scott lowers his head further onto the armrest, not knowing how long Katie wanted to stay, but it didn’t matter to him. She could stay as long as she wanted, but if she felt she had to leave, he’d take her. For now though…he just wanted to sit…and be with her.

Here

*As Bret makes his way up Charlotte neck her pulse quickens just a bit and a smile along with a tiny giggle form.*

"Your a little frisky tonight arnt you."

*Turning her head slightly she starts to give give Bret a kiss when the doorbell rings. Letting out a sigh and shaking her head she watches Bret leave the room. Leaning down in the fridge she grabs some of the veggies, some garlic and than some chicken to add in.

As a few moments pass Charlotte stands at the counter and chops some veggies and throws them into a skillet along with the chicken the sizzled. As Bret puts his arm around and over Charlotte she automatically puts the knife down and brings her hand up to his arm and lays her head back for a moment closing her eyes and taking the moment in.

Before Charlotte never though about the future with a guy. It was living it one day at a time not looking at what was to come. But for the first time in her life, she could actually see herself looking ahead with Bret. Wondering if this was who she was to be with for the rest of her life.

Turning around to face Bret, Charlotte smiles wrapping both her arms around Bret's neck and pulling him closer to her till she was pressed up against him.*

"I think we were here."

*Leaning in Charlotte press her lips to him and her hands find the back of his head and her passion is brought forth. Letting the kiss linger for a while.*

*Katie can't help but smile at the Domino's enthusiasm to see her. Katie loved the little dogs energy and excitment it braught a smile to her face that would never fade no matter her mood.

Beinding down and peting Domino on the head and than throwing her toy Katie makes her way into the livingroom just looking around for a moment. Seeing Scott pat next to him giving the ok for her to sit Katie does so sinking down into the coutch. Leaning over Katie leans her hand on Scott and snuggles into him. Katie wasn't sure why or if it was even her answer but it felt like this might be on of the last times and how she was going to miss it. Just thinking about it made her sad. Bring her arms around Scott she just holds him he bodys warmth keeping her roomtempature and comfortanle. Katie's fingers interlocking with Scott's.*

*Jess gives a small nod as they head back to Mom and Pop's Jess can't help but feel a tad better after her conversation with Carson. He'd helped her feel better once again.

Walking a tiny bit close to him Jess keeps an eye on her sarroundings though feel much safer having Carson near.

Getting to Mom and Pop's Jess gives a small wave as Herb and Mable leave for the night showing a small bit of humor letting them know she would keep Carson in line. Once they are gone Jess siting at the counter and watches Carson listing to the music he had playing as well.

The more Jess watched the more she wanted to help untill finally She stands and comes behind the counter. Grabbing a rag and some cleaner she goes out to the floor and starts to clean off the tables and whiping the window cills and shakers down. Finishing up a few tables Jess looks up at Carson.*

"I need to earn those milkshakes some how dont I?"

*Giving a little wink Jess goes back to cleaning the tables.*

Cleaning

Bret throws up his hands. “I know, I know…I couldn’t keep a house clean if I got paid to. It’s my downfall. I guess I just need a good woman around here to keep me in line.”

Suddenly realizing the implications of the words he just said, his face reddens slightly and he tries to recover by reverting to the subject of food. “Stir fry sounds good…as a matter of fact, anything you whip up sounds good.”

He comes up behind Charlotte as she looks in the fridge, and puts his arms around her waist. “Mmm…looks like I got a few veggies…and there’s some meat in the freezer.”

Bret leans forward to kiss her neck teasingly, moving up to her cheek as he whispers. “And a cook that is to die for.”

The ringing doorbell makes him give a frustrated sigh. “Whoever that is has terrible timing. I’ll be back.” Leaving Charlotte in the kitchen he goes to the door, slowing as soon as he’s out of sight. He approaches the door with caution, opening it just a crack at first.

A tall black man is on the porch with a large manila envelope in his hand. Bret grits his teeth and opens the door wider, stepping out halfway, holding open the screen. “Lee, what are you doing,” he hisses. “You weren’t supposed to come here.”

Lee hands over the heavy envelope. “Johnny got the plates and Dan said to bring ‘em here. I’m just following orders.”

Bret snatches the package from him, displeased. “Well next time use your head. Just you being here puts this at risk.”

“Hey, off my case,” Lee defends. “As far as anyone is concerned, I’m just paying a house call. Just hold up your end of the deal and we’ll be fine.”

Bret gives a sarcastic laugh. “Sure. Leave it on my shoulders. Just like old times, right? I don’t even know why Dan wanted me back in on this. I thought he’d learned the first time.”

Lee cracks a sly smile. “Don’t tell me you’ve forgotten you’re the best.”

“I figured Dan would be scared I’d rat on him.”

“Not with what he’s got over your head.”

Bret scowls. “Don’t remind me. Just get out of here will you?”

“Fine. But be there tomorrow for the warmup.” Lee turns and steps off the porch.

Bret watches him until he’s gone, finally backing up to shut the door again. He goes to the nearby closet and puts the envelop up above the coat rack, pausing a moment. This was stupid…he was stupid…but he’d made his choice… He shakes his head then ambles back to the kitchen. Coming up behind Charlotte again, he drapes his arms over her shoulders. “So…where were we?”


Scott gives a slight nod. He was more than willing to finish off this evening together. Though maybe a bit awkward, he did not want it to end on a sour note.

Once the meal is paid for and Katie has her leftovers, they head out. The drive is quiet… Scott lets the silence be, not trying to overcome it with needless talk. Sometimes quiet was just better anyway.

Getting to his place, he waits for Katie and lets her inside ahead of him. Domino gives a short bark and comes bounding in from the living room, her whole body wiggling with glee. She jumps up on Katie’s legs and begs to be petted, nuzzling and licking her fingers. Then just as fast, she’s racing back to the living room, grabbing her favorite chew toy and running back. Skidding on the linoleum, she runs into Katie’s leg, unable to stop herself. Shaking her head a little, she looks up at Katie, begging for more attention.

Despite previous tension, Scott can’t help but chuckle. “You still girl,” he croons. He takes off his jacket and throws it over a chair, leading the way to the living room. Sinking down on the couch, he looks up at Katie. Maybe they would be taking this easy between them for a while, but he didn’t want her to feel unwanted. He pats the cushion beside him, offering her a place to sit, or a shoulder if she needed it.


Carson’s shoulders drop a little at Jess’ tone, even though she thanks him. “I could tell you this same thing a million times, and you could still choose not to believe it. It takes your heart, Jess.”

He nods at her. “It takes you believing in yourself…not just some words that I rattle off.”

He pauses a moment, softening his tone a little. “That guy waiting for you could be standing three feet away and you wouldn’t see it until your own heart was ready. Don’t give up…don’t grow hard…’cause in the long run, you’ll regret it.”

The sound of nearby traffic prevents peaceful silence, but there is still peace here within the quiet park, and Carson leans back again, letting his mind roam for a few minutes before he stands up. “We better get back before Herb thinks I deserted him. Not to mention, I’m getting cold.”

The walk back to Mom and Pop’s is brisk, the night air growing chillier. Arriving through the back door, Carson finds things just closing up. Cleaning still needs to be done, but Carson offers to do it, letting Herb and Mabel go home for the night.

Shedding his jacket, but keeping his ball cap on, Carson cranks up the radio in the kitchen and grabs a mop and bucket, going out onto the front floor. “Make yourself at home,” he offers Jess. “Won’t take me long, then if you want, I can still make those milkshakes.”

Stir fry

*As Charlotte walks into the kitchen with Bret she cant help but stop and place her hands on her hips looking around for a moment shaking her head. As the humor shows itself in her eyes.*

"Didn't I just clean this kitchen a few days ago? What am I going to do with you?"

*Charlotte smerks as walks past Bret and looks in the fridge. He didn't have much but she was sure she could whip something up.*

"How about stir fry? Sound good to you hun?"

*Jess listens to Carson, and takes in his words. How right he was about alot of stuff, and how his words made sence. Now if only Jess could get her mind to believe it.*

"Yeah, I'm sure he's out there somewhere just waiting for someone light me huh?"

*The sarcastice tone is in Jess voice and after the words were said she relized it. Looking back to Carson her eyes dim just a little.*

"I'm sorry I know your trying to help and I apresheate it I really do. Its just hard thats all. Keep telling me all this stuff though and sooner or later I might start believeing it."

*Jess gives a small smile.*

"Thanks Carson."

*Katie lets out and than sucks in a sigh trying to contain and controll herself. Pulling away from Scott she just sits silent for a moment. Finally turning to him she gives a smile.*

"I think going to see Domino would be nice. I'd like to finish out our evning anyways. If thats ok with you."

*Katie waves Aerith over for the check and asks for a box for there left over food.*

*As Kyle drives out of sight Misty gives on last wave. She had, had a good evening and everything was good with Kyle. It always was. Now that his voice was starting to come back there was even more laughing and joking that was throw between them both. Turning Misty makes her way to the pourch and just sits down at the step for a moment.

It was a nice night out. A bit chilli but Misty liked it. Glancing up to the moon for a moment Misty's mind wonders to Carson and what he was doing. Hoping he was doing ok now her mind goes once again make to Kyle and she sits just reflecting.*

What you deserve

Bret smiles at Charlotte's offer. Something about having her stay here and cook was appealing...perhaps it made this house feel less empty.

"Mm...your cooking sounds too good to pass up...and seeing as though I've got a mountain of movies I never watch, surely there's one to keep us occupied."

He grins slyly. "As if we need any more entertainment."

He stands up and stretches, heading for the kitchen. "Come on... I'll help you cook if you can find something in this mess of a kitchen."


As Jess talks, Carson just listens. He keeps his eyes fixed on the sky or the park, hearing the pain in Jess' voice, and unsure what to do with it. He had so much pain himself...it was hard to take on another's. But she did bear so much on her shoulders...it was more than just a stupid incident with Peter...her hurt went clear back to her childhood when she'd felt rejected and abandoned...completely alone.

Carson mulls over her words as she ends, wondering at his own response. "Oh...I don't know, Jess... Sometimes I wonder if being loved in the first place was worth it... I suppose in the end I'd say it was... I guess maybe the pain is different for someone like me, who knows it was their own fault they're alone now."

He sighs, letting his breath out slowly. "Supposed to make a wish, eh?" A wry grin forms on his lips. "I think any of my wishes would be too impossible to ever come true."

Thinking a little more, he can't help but go back to Jess' words about her past. He'd seen that tear, though hadn't drawn attention to it. He knew Jess just well enough to know that she wasn't one to cry easily.

"People say the past makes us who we are... I guess there must be some truth to that, looking at my own past... my childhood... my family experiences. I could blame my father for a lot of things today if I wanted to. But I guess...even if some of my experiences molded the way I think, I can't let myself be bound to it. I've been a jerk...I've been worse than an enemy...I've done things that I deserve to die for... but the only one I can blame is myself. And if that's the case...then I figure I have just as much power to change my future."

He shrugs, avoiding details about his own childhood. He had never spoken to anyone about it, not even Misty, and wasn't planning to discuss it now. "I guess...even if your past was dim, Jess, you have the power to be whoever you want to be now. Whether you never felt loved or not...that doesn't mean that you never will... whether you never had true friends or not... that doesn't mean that you never will. There are too many variables in life... too many times that it's our own choices that take us down certain paths. You may think you're too scared to love, to ever get that far. You may think you're not worthy of being loved back. But that's all based on a past that's history... and to believe it now is to lie to yourself, which is a shame."

Carson finally turns his head to look at Jess. "Don't let a bum childhood ruin what you've got going for you now. You've got guts, determination, a heart that wants to love, good looks and a future that hasn't been written yet. You've got too much potential to let it go down the drain - to throw it away is to be totally unfair to yourself."

He knew this all too well...he'd thrown everything away at one point, and it had led him to eventual misery. Only when he'd been caught by TJY had he started to see it.

Searching Jess' eyes for a moment, he finally looks back up at the moon. "Don't be afraid of those who want to show you they care...if you are, then you'll never find that one you deserve."


Scott shifts his weight and moves over a little for Katie, slipping his arms around her to return the hug. He holds her close, resting his head against hers and rubbing her back. "Don't be sorry," he whispers. "It's okay."

A tear rolls down his face to be lost in Katie's soft hair. Scott's voice remains hoarse and quiet. "Sometimes that which we love the most we have to give up, simply because we do love it that much."

Rocking her a little, he just holds her, not caring who sees them, not caring how long they sit. They both needed this.

Finally though, he knows that they can't be here forever...at some point, they do need to move on. Giving Katie's head a kiss, Scott pulls away, reaching out to wipe away her tears. He forces the best smile that he can to the surface, trying to mask the pain in his eyes. He didn't know the future...no one could...and things could change...but deep down...he knew that this was only the beginning...something told him that the marriage he'd hoped for with Katie would never be realized. But he would not let those thoughts take him down...not a second time. Katie was too important.

"You want to come over to my place for a little while?" he offers. "Say hi to Domino...wind down before going home?"