Approve

*Angelica gives Bret a smile back knowing he is trying. She might not have agree with how they got married and that it was so fast but she couldnt do anything about it and her sister was her own woman. After all even if Angelica didnt addmit it she did like Bret.*

"Breakfest sounds perfect to me."

*Coming back over to Charlotte she gives her arm a gentil pat.*

"You have a keep. I approve."

*Charlotte beams as she receved her sisters words and links her arm with Bret's her face shinning like no tomarrow.*

"I plan on keeping him for a long time. Thank you Angelica."

*Putting her arm around Jason's wast Katie toss him a smile. It was good to see him happy again, a smile on his face was a good sight.

Your such a goof.

Walking with Jason out of TJY and Trooper close behind on one side, Domino trots proudly on the other. Finally decieding to take Katie's car they hope in and are finally on there way to Mom and Pop's.*

*BJ Smiles up at Mick again and hold up a movie with a bear on the front in overalls.*

"It's called Patttttinton's missing button."

*Getting distracted for a moment BJ just looks at the case and studys it as if looking for something. Than holding it up her offers it to Rosetta to pop in.*

*Giving a smile Rosetta takes the movies and goes to the VCR putting it in. Coming back around to Mick and seeing him wince a little in pain her own hand movies to his.*

"Are you ok? Need me to get you anything?"

Spark

Bret hesitates a moment before leaving Charlotte behind, but relents, respecting Angelica’s wish to speak to him. Following her to the small garden, he remains standing, still cautious, but willing to listen.

As she speaks, Bret realizes what she’s getting at, and his defenses start to lower. It wasn’t really a feeling of guilt, but more of a realization that he’d misjudged Angelica too.

When she’s finished and walking away, Bret stops her. “Angelica…” He catches up to her and cocks his head, giving her a warm smile. “Thanks. I will keep your sister safe…and… I guess I’m sorry too. How about we start over by treating you to lunch?”


Jason gives Katie a wry grin. “Last I heard, Angelica didn’t know where he went either. I’m right mad at him – he doesn’t like it when we take a vacation, but he can just go off any time he likes.”

And no, of course I didn’t think you’d let me get away without taking you with me. I just wanted to see that spark.

Jason throws her a wink as he grabs his jacket. “Come on, Hero. It’s pizza time.”

Trooper gets up from the floor, ready to go with them, and Jason smirks. “It’s the lunch hour, bub. I can’t take you in when there’s a crowd, you know that. Do you really want to wait in the truck?”

Trooper wags his tail.

“Alright. Come on.”

The dog falls in obediently behind Jason’s heel.

Jason rolls his eyes and slings an arm around Katie’s shoulder. “Looks like neither one of you will let me go alone.” He kisses the top of her head. “But I think I like it that way.”

Heading out the door, he puts on the brakes. “Oh, almost forgot.” He reaches to grab a folder on his table. “Some stuff we can go over in case we get bored.” It was more stuff he was trying to put together about Scott… Not something he could exactly spread out with Katie here at TJY.


As BJ enters the room, a smile spreads on Mick’s face and he gives a little chuckle. “Ohhh, thank you!” He accepts the coffee and takes a sip to let BJ know that it’s quite alright even if it isn’t all that hot.

Joined on the bed, Mick moves his arm to wrap around BJ. “Mmm, you’re such a big help. Before long, I’ll be out of a job you’ll be doing everything so well!”

Looking up at Rosetta, he returns her kiss, laying a hand to the side of her face. “Thank you,” he whispers.

Hearing BJ’s squeal, Mick can’t help his laughter, his eyes twinkling with humor. “What? You saw me kiss a horse and you didn’t care!” He ruffles t he boy’s hair. “Won’t be long ‘til you’ll be kissing a girl.” His smile softens, along with his tone. “But you got plenty of time…”

Settling back, he keeps himself from showing how sore he is. “Okay, Beej, what movie you got?”



“He’s not any use to us anymore. He didn’t give us what we wanted. I say we waste him.”

Donovan rolls his eyes at his hasty friend. “Riggs, cut it out. You know the boss said not to kill him off. Just keep him…” A sadistic grin forms. “…however we want or need to.”

Riggs scoffs. “Why?” He gestures to the corner of the concrete room to the huddled form. “What’s the point?”

“Pain,” Donovan reminds. He takes a syringe out of his back pocket. “Remember? We pressure long enough, I’ll bet he’ll finally break.”

“After all this?” Riggs shakes his head. “He’s already off his rocker. We lost him a week ago when you and Kirk went too far.”

Donovan chuckles. “Too far? He lived.”

“Yeah, but he lost his mind. What’s there to gain now?”

“You have no sense of torture.” Donovan checks the syringe, tapping out the air bubbles. “A little more prompting, and he might just gain back that sanity of his. I’ve had tougher cases.”

“But he’s not like the others,” Riggs argues. “He’s weak. He wasn’t trained for the field – that much was obvious. The guy couldn’t hit the broad side of a barn with his fist if he tried, let alone stand up under what you and Kirk give him.”

Donovan sighs and turns to his friend again, the annoyance showing. “Look, I’m in charge here. Maybe you ought to just watch and learn. Besides…whether he’s off his rocker or not, watching this is fun.”

Riggs rolls his eyes and folds his arms across his broad chest. “Great. My kind of fun would be putting a bullet to his head.”

“That’s because you’re too hasty, and that’s why you’re still in the position of peon, taking orders from me.” Donovan gives a sinister chuckle and turns to his task again. “Alright, Johnson… you going back to the computers today? Or is it going to be another nice round of your favorite…encouragement?”

Scott is curled up on the floor, his arms wrapped around his knees as he lies on his side, rocking slightly. He shakes from both cold and fear, though his words are muffled and garbled, not understood. His eyes are wide as he stares at Donovan approaching, and he pulls himself into an even tighter ball, scrunching his eyes shut.

“Mm…” Donovan shakes his head. “You don’t want to help us today either?” He squats down next to Scott’s trembling form. “But you’re the only hacker that can get us what we need from TJY…and if you help us…this will all be over. You’ll get a hot meal…some clean clothes…even a nice soft bed to sleep on.”

Oh how enticing those words were. Scott’s dreams were full of his longing for a warm blanket…a meal other than rice and water… even just a little soft pillow would be heaven.

Donovan gives Scott’s leg a nudge. “Hey. I know you hear me. Come on, Johnson. What’ll it be?”

Scott scoots further into the corner his eyes still held tightly shut.

Donovan sighs. “Alright then…too bad.”

Scott feels Donovan’s hand on his arm, and he shoots up to back as far into the corner as he can. “No!”

“Oh, yes.”

Scott’s veins still burned from the incredible pain that those shots induced. It was pain that could make any man turn on his own if just for a moment of relief. His voice drops to a whimper. “Please…”

Donovan pauses, needle in hand. “Do you want to help us?”

Scott swallows hard, tears filling his eyes as he finally nods.

“Well okay then.” Donovan caps the needle and stands back up, throwing a haughty glance to Riggs. “See? After a little persuasion, even cases like this will come around. Come get him up and bring him to the lab. He’s got work to do.”

Cunado

*Charlotte smiles wrapping her arms around Bret. She had been worryed for a while that just maybe they wouldnt be able to clear Bret's name. Why she had put doubt in her sister she wasnt sure but in the end she didn't let them down. If ever asked who the best Lawyer in the world was Charlotte would never hesatate to say her sister was.*

"I'm so happy we can start living again now Bret. I love you!"

*Leaning up Charlotte gives Bret a kiss how happy she was. A whole new chapter was now starting in life. One that would be full of fun and full of adventure. Charlotte new there would never be a dul moment now.*

*Now that everything was over and Bret was clear there was time to talk and Angelica new she had to, before to many more assumptions where made.

Giving a smile she taps Bret on the shoulder and motions for him to follow here. Leading him around some tables and out the door Angelica makes her way to the small garden before stopping and sitting down on the bench. Turning towards Bret she leaves it open to him weather he sits or stands.

Letting out a sigh Angelica is quiet for a moment as she runs words and feelings through her head. She was a lawyer and exhalent with words unless it came to her own emotions and feelings. Than she felt like silly putty.

Had she been unfair to Bret and Charlotte? Maybe but it was her little sister and she had always been the one to help her when she fell. Angelica had to remember now though Charlotte was a grown woman and could make her own decisions. She wasn’t the little girl she remembered anymore.

Than there was the comment Bret had made a few days back about giving up on love. Had she really, was she scared to let someone close to her. Just letting that emotion alone out, and remembering what it felt to be cared for put a wave of fear in Angelica’s heart. The answer was simple, she had given up and she was scared that she could get hurt again. Yet that was no reason to take it out on two people who clearly were in love. Yes she had been unfair to them both and now it was time to take a step back, humble herself and right some wrongs.*

“I’ve never been good at back tracking and trying to make up for something wrong I have done so bear with me on this one. First off, I never dislike you, or hated you. From what I saw and heard you always treated my sister the way she should be. I guess I was just on edge because she has been treated so badly in the past and at first the guys were good I just didn’t want it to happen again. I guess I kind of forgot she grown up now and not the little girl I remember.”

*Angelica looks down at her hands for a moment and than back up at Bret. The confidence never leaving her eyes, but hidden behind it was something new, and something different that was not often seen in the hard eyes of this lawyer. Maybe this was her soft spot.*

“As I am sure you know Charlotte has been through so much. From abusive relationships, to drinking, to rehab it’s sad to me to think about everything what happened to her. One thing I have to say through she is a stronger person than I am. I’m happy with all she has been through she didn’t turn out like me. I think you said it best when you said I gave up on love, and am scared of it.”

*Leaning back Angelica is quit as she breaks her gaze from Bret and looks around the small flower garden. Its evident this is hard for her and something she is not use too.*

“So I guess in the end what I am trying to say is I am sorry Bret, for not giving you the chance right off the bat with my sister you deserved. You’re a good guy and I am happy you’re in love with my sister. It’s about time she hooked a good one. So…now I pass the torch off to you and it’s no longer my time to looks out for and keep my litter sister safe, it’s yours. It’s an honor to have you as my Cuñado.”

*Letting out a sigh and standing Angelica gives Bret’s shoulder a tiny pat. There was nothing else left for her to say. Slowly enjoying probably one of the last nice days they would have before the frost came she takes in a deep breath walks back to the building where the others would be waiting.*

*Opening the door on Jason's office door Katie peeks her head in and gives a smile.

You think I would really let you get away without taking me with you? Your not the only one who is stressed you know.

Katie can't help the giggle as she opens the door more and waits for Jason.*

"I need Reese as well. I have to ask him a question about this one file he wanted me to look over but he wont even answer his phone. This is not like him at all! Do you think Angelica would know anything?"

"Shhhhh....carfel how you hold that."

*The little boy beams up at Rosetta as he carrys a lukewarm cup of coffee down the hall with both hands. Rosetta close behind with a tray and some sandwhiches and a few more glasses of juice.

Coming to the bedroom door Rosetta stops BJ and whispers.*

"You remember what to say right?"

*The small boys eyes grow big as he thinks for a moment and than gives a nod entering the room. Walking over to the bed where Mick sat BJ stands on his tip toes holding the glass out to Mick.*

"It's not very hot dad because I wanted to carry it but I thought you would like it anyways."

*Rosetta can't help but shakes her head and laugh as she enters the room.*

*BJ gives a toothy grin though his front tooth was missing.*

"Always we made some shandwhiches and have a movie to watch together to keep you company. Than afterwords maybe we can play a game."

*After giving Mick his drink BJ climbs into the bed and crawls up next to Mick sitting back aganst the pillow and crossing his arms like Mick was immatating him.*

"I also helped mom with the chores for you too."

*Rosetta sets the tray down on the nightstand next to the bed and pulls the chair over to dish out the plates and drinks for everyone. Leaning down she gives Mick a kiss.*

"I love you."

*A squeel can be hurd from the small boy as he throws a pillow over his head.*

"YUCK!"

*Rosetta can't help but laugh again her eyes so full of life and joy.*

Ancy

Jeff wipes some sweat from his brow and leans against the wall, letting out a long sigh. He was glad he'd been able to help, but it had done nothing for his nerves. But Mick was okay...and that's what mattered most.

Letting Angel know he'd be in his own bunk, he wanders outside into the cold night air and just stops, staring up at the stars. God, what is your plan... where are you in all this... where are you leading us...

Jeff's breath comes out as steam as it hits the air, and he continues his slow walk to the bunk house. Change was in the wind. From which direction he came, he couldn't be sure. But it was there...somewhere.


Several hours pass before Mick groggily opens his eyes a little, trying to focus on something in the dimly-lit room. Where was he? Why was he so sore? It hurt to breathe.

He moves his hand a little, and realizes that another hand was lying in his own. Turning his head, he squints, seeing Rosetta's face. He licks his dry lips, confused, and then it all comes back to him. He'd taken a spill. Cyclone. He'd gotten hurt and... talking to Angel was the last thing he could clearly recall. Apparently he was still alive...that was a good thing. He hurt like the dickens, but if Angel wasn't in here now, that must be a good sign.

Mick tightens his grip to give Rosetta's hand a squeeze. "Guess you got me around a little longer, eh?" His voice is low and hoarse, but he manages a crooked grin. "I love you."


Jason has his key ready to turn in his truck's ignition, when he stops and grins.

Follow me to my place. I got some junk food and a stack of movies. I won't be able to sleep for a while yet anyway.

He starts his truck and pulls out of the TJY parking lot, knowing that Katie would be close behind.

And you can bring that black and white fuzzball. Trooper won't mind.


Carson sits on the edge of the restaurant booth, counting the few dollar bills he had left in his pocket. He gives a sigh and slouches. He needed to get a car... he needed to get his own place... he needed to get out from under these stupid insurance bills that he was still paying. But there was just no way he could do it right now. He was trying to save up, but with his morning detours, that wasn't working out so great either. He knew he needed to give that up...but...he just...couldn't.

Shaking his head, he sets his cash on the table and stretches out, trying to get some sleep after an evening with Dani and Jess. One day...one day he would have a handle on his life. One day...


Though the future is often feared, all must face it. Though we try to hold off the inevitable, it will come, quietly or roaring. But it will come.


Bret breathes in a lung full of fresh air. It was gray and cold out, but to him, the day was beautiful. He skips down the courthouse steps, meeting Charlotte at the bottom. Grabbing her into a hug, he swings her around before planting a kiss on her lips. "Your husband may have a record, but he's not going to be behind bars."

A smile spreads on his face, recalling the judge's words in the courtroom. He was free...and the real crooks were going to prison. "And...."

Bret spins around, seeing Angelica coming down the steps too. "...I owe it all to you. Thank you...I never would have made it in there without you, and... I don't know how I can ever repay you."

He slings an arm around Charlotte's shoulders, a huge burden feeling as though it's been lifted. His eyes remain on Angelica though. "We, um... kinda got off on the wrong foot, I know... and going through this case the last couple weeks hasn't helped things much. I...I'm honored that you're my sister-in-law, and I can only hope that me marrying your sister isn't something that a rift will be started over."


"What do you mean, you don't know?" Jason stands in Susanne's office, looking at her with a gaze of surprise and irritation. "He never just leaves without saying anything."

"I told you!" Susanne throws up her arms. "I haven't seen Reese since two days ago. He told me he was leaving the office, and that was it."

"Well I asked Wyatt and he doesn't even know!"

"I'm sorry! What do you want me to do?!"

Jason sighs and rubs his eyes. "Nothing...I'm sorry. Just...let me know if he calls." He heaves a sigh and aims back for his office.

What is going on?! Reese never takes off like this. Wyatt said his dad told him he was simply taking a couple days off. But he's left town. Something is strange. I don't like it...not one bit.

Jason gets to his office and shuts his door a little harder than necessary. Flopping down in his chair, he stares at the mess on his desk. Half of it was legit work, the other half was work he was doing on looking for Scott. He and Katie had found a few things... combined with some information from Luke during the last week, they had kind of a starting place. Though they were growing weary. Nothing substantial was showing up. And no more clues had been offered.

He glances to the clock. Lunchtime. He was tempted to skip. But with his emotions rising, he knew it would be dangerous to miss a meal.

Jason pulls out a desk drawer to see a can of soup and half a bag of chips. Nothing he really wanted.

Pizza. I want pizza. And I want to get away from here. Forever. But for an hour will have to do. You coming with me, or are you going to let me be miserable at Mom and Pop's alone?


Mick sits up in bed, staring at the droning tv in the bedroom. At least today he didn't have to be at Angel's anymore, but not being able to work, and being stuck in bed was driving him bananas. Hearing BJ at the other end of the house made him wish he could get up and play with him. Hearing the horses outside made him wish he could get out of here and go do something productive. But it had only been a week... Another three days in bed, then another two weeks after that before he could start any minimal work.

He sighs, and winces a little. This tv show was stupid. But nothing else was on. If only he had something to keep his brain busy if he couldn't be up and about.

Legacy

*Jess gives a small nod to Carson and smiles.*

"Ok sounds good. I look forward to seeing you both a little later tonight than."

*Standing Jess clears the plates and puts away some of the left overs before joining Carson at the door to see him off. Leaning in Jess gives him a quick kiss and smiles.*

"Thank you for the company."

*Angel gives a nod to Mick and leaves the room with great hast getting a hold of Wendy, than Rosetta and last Jeff. Once everyone is gathered and BJ is taken care of Angel starts the sergary with great hast. Jeff works with Angel as Rosetta sits and waits. Considering the delicasey of the situation Angel though it best she sat this on out.*

Sometimes when the people we love are in parel, weather we have controll over what happens, or we don't....

*Katie sits at her desk most of TJY quiet. She should be home, but she had to know, she had to find more information that said if Scott was alive or not. Doing her own file searching and doing her own computer searching Katie new she didn't quite know what she was doing but she had to try. There was no way she could give up, if Scott was alive he needed them.*

...a minute could seem like hours, and hours like days, days like weeks, and weeks like years. Time slipping through our fingers, as the click ticks and we race to do what we can...

"Jeff, give me that clamp state the artery isn't cooperating. Come on...hurry."

*Angel continues the work racing the clock. A few things had gone wrong but nothing to major. Still, time we of thee essence and to much time gone by could be fatil.*

...time, why was it our enemy, why was it our friend. The moment time was dreaded but soon, soon the sky would open up and time, time would no longer matter as those who were loved were together again, as life moved on and our friends stood by our side...

*Seeing the light on in Katie's cubicle still Dalton slowly make his way over not wanting to startle her. Looking in Katie's head was rested on the desk as a small dog was cuddled at her feet. Paper works spread out and her computer beeping. Fast asleep one could tell Katie was dreaming.

Gently Dalton enters and shuts the computer off before gives Katie a small shake.*

"Kit Kat, its almost 10. You should head home."

*Lifting her head with a jerk and a start Katie looks up at Dalton and than to her computer that was now shut off. She must of fallen a sleep. Grabing some paper work and a pen Katie continues to stair at the paper.*

"I can't, I'm not tired. I have to do this."

*Looking down on Katie with consern in his eyes he shakes his head before laying a hand on her shoulder. Dalton didn't offten show compation, and wasnt always friendly but something about Katie, just something about her cut through his hard shell and touch the small softness in his heart.*

"Your not going to be any good to anyone Kit Kat like this. You are tired. Go home, get some sleep, come back and work on it more tomarrow."

*Giving a sleepy nod Katie puts the papers in her desk and lets out a tired sigh standing.*

"I guess your right Hulk. Thanks."

*Grabbing her bag and picking up Domino along with her faverote chew toy Katie makes her way out of TJY.

Hey J, you up for come company?*

*Splashing water on her face and than drying it Angel gives a nod to Jeff.*

"Thanks for the help. Sometimes I would wonder what I would do without your help."

*Giving a smile Angel makes her way out from the back and to where Rosetta was sitting. Giving her friend a soft pat on the shoulder she nods.*

"Mick is going to be ok Rosetta. We had a few complacations, and some setbacks but we worked through it and he is resting now. If you want to go in and see him you can but he probley will be out of it from the anistedic for a little bit."

*Rosetta stands and gives Angel a hug. She was so thankful for her friends help and for her presence here at the ranch. Over the years there had been so many misshapes and things that had happend that Rosetta wasnt sure if any of them would still be here if it had not been for Angel.*

"Thank you!"

*Breaking away from Angel Rosetta makes her way down the hall and to the room where Mick was resting. Walking over to his bedside Rosetta leans out and gives him a soft kiss on the forhead. Pulling a chair up next to the bed she sits and interlocks her hand with him just holding it.

Her heart starting to stop its rappid beat as the fear starts to fade knowing now Mick was ok. No matter how many times someone got hurt, no matter how many spills where taken Rosetta would always worry.

But now Mick was ok and that is what matter. She'd stay with him for a little while till he was to wake so he did not have to be alone.*

...the people who mattered, the ones who always saw us through and loved us endlessly, those were the people that would be with us till the end of time. The ones who would always stand by our side and help us heal. Those were the ones that gave us hope and would carry on our legacy to the next.

Got a stop

Mick lets Angel check him over, even though he’s a bit uncomfortable with it. Once she tells him what is wrong, he lets out an irritated sigh. “Aw, great…”

He tries to stifle more coughing. “No, I don’t wanna go to no dang hospital. You should know better than that.” He winces as he tries to move. “This is all I needed… I’ll be laid up for weeks now, thanks to that dumb animal.”

Another coughing fit makes him cringe and double over where he sits on the table, and finally he just lies down, closing his eyes. Two hours ago he had felt decent…right about now he felt downright crappy. His body wanted to sleep, but he didn’t want to. He might just be showing grouchiness towards his condition, but on the inside, he was worried and just a little scared. This wasn’t something to kid around about. If he didn’t get into surgery soon, this could kill him.

“Get Rosetta,” he mumbles. “See if Wendy will watch BJ. Then call whoever you need to. I ain’t goin’ nowhere.”


Carson nods absentmindedly. “I might check out that gas station. No use checking anything else out that I’d have to drive to. Without my own set of wheels, there’s really no point.”

The rest of the meal is finished with light small talk until Carson has to leave again. He stands up from the table and stretches, yawning just a little. The late nights and early mornings were starting to get to him. “I better scoot. I got a stop to make on the way back, and then… Dani and I will swing by here about eight so we can go to the movies.”


…Jason sits on the floor of his office, files spread all around him. A can of pop is on his desk, a half-eaten candy bar close by. It was a poor substitute for the evening meal he’d missed, but it would do for now. He was tired, but he had to keep working. He knew there had to be a connecting link somewhere…there had to be a lead… no matter how small. There was always a lead eventually.

Trooper whines and stretches out beside his master, yawning.

Jason rests a hand on the dog’s head. “Yeah, I know it’s getting late. Just give me one more hour…just one.”

choose

*Slowly walking to the door Rosetta watch Mick cross the yard making sure he gets to Angel's ok before shutting the door behind her and returning to BJ's side to continue to keep him company.*

*Open the door Angel look at Mick with groggy eyes for a moment but snaps up as she relizes who it was and that something was wrong.*

"Dear goodness Mick, you look like you just got hit by a truck. Come in, come in."

*Moving out of the way a little Angel slings Mick's arm around her neck as she helps him to the table. Grabbing a few items she needed Angel continues her examanation of Mick checking him over. Looking at the bruses and the cuts, the bumps and all of the scrapes. Till the problem was finally found.*

"Well Mick I found the problem. It looks like you got a broken rib the puncured your lung."

*Angel walks over to the sink and wash up her hands before turning back to Mick and continuing to talk to him.*

"You have two choses. I can get someone in here to help me and I can fix you up myself or we can send you out to the hospetil where they are better equiped. Its totally up to you Mick and one way or the other I wont be ofended."

*Jess studys Carson for a long moment searching his eyes for the truth and wanting to believe what he said was the truth. Not knowing anything differnt for now its what Jess had to believe.

Taking another bit of her pizza Jess thinks for a moment on Carson's question. Finally answering.*

"I think there is a little gas station that is look for help just down the road from here, or see if the pizza box is looking for people. You can use my car."

Reasons?

Mick looks back up to Rosetta, his face reddening a little. He didn't like it that he couldn't just bounce back as easily as he used to...and it had been a rotten enough day the way it was. But he knew she was right...he knew he needed to go see Angel. He didn't feel right, no matter how he tried to make it seem he was okay.

"Alright." Mick's tone implied he wasn't happy, but he knew better than to keep arguing. Once Rosetta had her mind set, it was hard to change it, and right now he didn't have the energy for a fight. "I'll walk over there myself. Just let me get my shoes on and at least say hi to BJ."

Still fighting a cough, Mick slips his boots back on and wanders down the hall to the living room a bit gingerly, doing his best to act as though everything was fine. Finding BJ back in the living room, he ruffles the boy's hair. "Hey, Bud. Keep Mom company for a just a while longer, alright? And when I come back, we'll all play that game you've been wanting to, okay?"

He gives the boy a hug, then makes his way to the door again. Back outside, the chilly air just makes him cough all the more, and the pain increases along with his own worry. Getting to Angel's he knocks and leans on the doorframe, too weary to stand.


Carson pauses his eating and shakes his head. "You know good and well you wouldn't be imposing. You never impose." He tosses Jess a wink.

At her question, he takes almost too long to respond. "I go jogging...what can I say? I run into things that keep me, then I wind up late. I gotta be careful though, I think I'm starting to tick off Herb." He gives a little sigh, thinking for a couple moments as if contemplating something.

"Heard of anyone around here needing part-time work? If I'm ever gonna get anywhere, I'm going to need some extra cash."

Right there

*Looking at her husband sternly Rosetta takes Mick's hand to see the blood. He could say he was ok till he was blue in the face but Rosetta new better and deep down inside so did Mick.*

"Mick Henson, are you trying to make me a widow already and BJ without a father again? Everything is not ok if your coughing up this much blood. Your not as young as you use to be and need to take better care of your bumps and bruses. Now, you eather go see Angel or I will call her here one way or the other you are seeing her. I'm not losing you already."

*Rosetta's facule expression shows she means what she says though her eyes still hold a soft glow of caring. Finally having Mick, Rosetta was not willing to let him slip away again even if this really was nothing, that was a chanse she was not willing to take.*

*Getting a glass of water for herself and one for Carson Jess brings them to the table sitting down and digging into the pizza.*

"A movie sounds good. As long as I am not imposing I'd love to go with you guys. Your sister is real nice I liked her."

*Jess gives a smile as she takes a bit of her pizza and chews it. Having a new apartment was fun and having someone to shair time in it was even better.*

"So, how can you be late to work still when you live right there?"

*Jess gives a small laugh showing she found a little bit of humor in it.*

Nothing

Carson thinks for a moment. What he really would like is a cold beer. "Um....just get me water, thanks."

Sitting down at the table, his mind seems to wander for several minutes before getting it back on track and eating with Jess. "I gotta work 'til closing tonight. Got a late start this morning so I need to make it up. Dani wants me to go see a movie with her afterward...you're invited to join us if you want. I don't know what we're going to see."


Mick looks up as Rosetta enters the room, in too much pain to hide it entirely. His eyes drift down, one hand on his ribcage. "I'm okay...I just need to shake it off." He gives her a little nudge with his elbow, forcing a small grin. "I've had worse. Cyclone just had to have his last say."

He starts to chuckle, but winds up coughing instead. This time though, he can't deny he's hurt, when he withdraws his hand from his mouth, showing blood. He can only give his wife a sidelong glance, knowing good and well what she'll say, and also knowing that he didn't want to comply. "It's nothing."

Heart desires

*Jess smiles and lets out a sigh as she hops off the counter. Opening the fridge she cringes a little at the small salection she had and reminds herself to go shopping.*

"Well, I have water, a little bit of milk but I wouldnt trust it, and I have orange soda. So, you can have whatever your heart desires."

*Jess grabs two glass from the cupboard and waits for Carson's reply.*

*Hearing Mick come into the house again Rosetta looks up as he pass by the livingroom. Rosetta knows this was hard for Mick, his love for horses, and the pain of having to put the animle out of its misary would be weaghing heavy on his mind.

Continuing to wait Rosetta playing with BJ in the livingroom waiting for Mick to emerge once again so she can warm him up some supper. The longer Rosetta waits, and the longer Mick does not reappear Rosetta's worry grows. HEaring Mick go into another coughing fit Rosetta gives BJ a light pat on the head and tells him to wait here.

Exiting the living room and making her way down the hall Rosetta peeks in the bedroom to see Mick on the bed. Slowly walking in and sitting down next to him Rosetta lays a soft hand on his shoulder.*

"Mick, Hun you don't sound so good. If you took a spill on Cyclone you should go see Angel. I'm worryed about you."

Hurt?

Carson leans into Jess as she sits on the counter, his hand moving from her leg to her waist, the other bracing himself on the counter top. His pulse rate quickens at her touch as he returns the kiss passionately.

Drawing away, he tilts his head the other way just to return again, feeling the warmth of her breath on his face. Lunch was forgotten.

Finally though, Carson releases the exchange, pulling back just far enough to look Jess in the eye. Hers own shone back at him, proving the happiness she was feeling. Carson's voice is whispered. "Satisfied now?"

A sly grin quirks the edge of his mouth as he gazes at her. And then...something shifts. He blinks, his new gaze showing something else... something different. As if a passing thought had suddenly broken the moment.

Giving Jess' leg a pat, pulls her off the counter, and grabs the box of pizza. "Plates. And...got anything good to drink around here?"


Mick gives Rosetta a slight nod. "Alright...I'll be back." Giving her one last look, the turns again, heading back outside. His steps are deliberate but heavy as he aims for the corral.

When he gets there, Jeff already has Cyclone's bridle off, and is holding down the gelding's head so he doesn't move too much. He looks up as Mick approaches, knowing good and well what was about to happen. "Wouldn't you rather have Jim..."

"No. It will take too long. This poor brute is in pain."

...A shot echoes through the ranch yard, several people at work looking up in question as to what was going on...

Mick trudges from the barn, a shovel slung over his shoulder.

"Mick...you're not in great shape." Jeff walks along side with another shovel. "Let me do this. Go get yourself cleaned up."

"No..." Mick shakes his head. "I started this...I'll finish it."

"But..."

Mick stops and throws Jeff a glare. "Let me make myself clear."

"Alright, alright." Jeff holds up a hand in surrender. "At least let me help."

Mick doesn't answer him, but continues his trek down the lane, plenty of distance behind the barns. It takes several hours of hard labor before the task is complete, the tractor bringing back both men from a task neither wanted to do again. Jeff offers to put everything away, and Mick makes his way back to the house, hurting and worn out. Halfway there, he realizes his tack is still out by the corral. Another trip, another set of steps that felt like miles. How he hated days like this. What if he'd done things differently? What if he'd skipped today's workout? What if he'd been more prepared?

He heaves a weary sigh and finally is able to head to the house. He knew dinner was long over and was sorry he was late for Rosetta, but there wasn't a whole lot he could have done about it. Limping a little, he heads up the porch and inside, taking off his hat and jacket to hang them up. He glances to the gash in his shoulder. It was dried up by now, but he needed to get cleaned up, preferably before BJ saw him.

Hearing Rosetta and BJ in the living room, he is quick to walk past without the child's eyes spotting him, though he does catch Rosetta's stare, letting her know that he was back.

Undressing for a shower, Mick coughs, wincing and holding his ribs. He should have been quicker to bail out of the saddle so he could fall properly. But it was too late now. Coughing again, he tastes blood, the same as he had earlier. "Dang it." It was probably nothing... He ignores it, and takes his shower, bandaging up his own arm and getting clean clothes on. Easing down on the bed though, exhaustion is pulling at him, despite his hunger. Maybe just ten minutes...

He lies down on top of the covers, tucking his bare feet under a blanket and laying on his uninjured side. Lying down proves to be a mistake though as he starts to cough again. He hurt more than he'd like to admit, and it was just getting worse. He'd taken rougher falls before...surely he could shake this off. The coughing persists though, and he finally has to sit back up. He didn't want to worry himself or anybody else, and he certainly didn't want to have to go see Angel. But the more blood that came up, the more his concern grew. His appetite was diminishing too, and right about now, he was feeling on the verge of sick.


Yeah, I know... I just want this to be over too. I thought at least this part of it was... but yeah... I don't want to be too late either. The only thing that bothers me is Reese. I don't understand why he just wanted to drop this. He didn't even act like it was even worth looking into.

Jason sighs, landing on the number he was looking for.

Actually...yeah, Rosetta and Mick might be able to help out some. First though, I'm after another Texan. I want to see what he says...in the meantime though, if you do want to call your aunt, feel free.

He picks up his phone and dials. It was a long shot, but it's all he had...


Luke reaches for the bedside phone as it rings, knowing Angel was in the office and might not hear it. "Hello?"

"Hi, Luke. This is Jason Stevenson."

"Jason?" Luke raises his eyebrows, and scoots up farther on the bed to sit up. "Well hi. What's up?"

"Actually, I'm needing some information. But first, how ya doing?"

Luke manages a chuckle. "Other than hardly being able to get out of bed the last few days, I'm okay."

"That's rough."

"Oh...I guess I get used to it." Maybe that was a lie, but it sounded good.

"Yeah, right."

Luke grins. Jason was too smart. "So what do you need?"

"Well...we got kind of a case going here... gotta keep it under wraps though."

"Kind of a case? What type of case is that?"

"An unofficial one. In other words...don't alert Austin."

Luke smiles a little. "Alright. I can do that."

"Good. We, um...we're looking at the possibility of an Agency location in Washington. Since you were in that area, I thought maybe you might be able to help us out."

"How'd you know..."

Jason chuckles. "Don't forget I got a hold on everyone's profiles before coming to Texas."

Luke shakes his head, amused. "Alright. Well...yeah, I was there for quite a while."

"Okay, so..." Jason proceeds to ask questions, gain insight and work through a few more things.

Finally ending the call, Luke sinks back down on the bed, staring up at the ceiling. Jason hadn't told him why they were looking into so much in Washington.... and he hadn't asked. It was odd though that Austin couldn't know about it...Luke would just have to trust Jason on that one.


Well, I got some info from Luke Trahern... He admitted there were a few strange things going on in Washington when he lived there. Also a few areas we might be able to check out a little deeper. Though he's always said he was just living life and not investigating, he did do some casual snooping and it might be just enough for us to get a lead on the Agency again.

Jason closes a filing folder and scoots his chair back to his desk. He had to get some of his normal work done before Reese found out he'd been working on something out. Feeling a little woozy though, he glances at the clock and realizes that the lunch hour had come and gone.

Wanna do lunch? I need to eat one way or another.

Lips Can't

*Rosetta lays a hand on Mick's shoulder. She new he had to do was he was about to and she new it was so hard.*

"Don't blame youself Hun."

*Leaning over Rosetta gives Mick a quick kiss. She new anything she said would not make the situation better but she could hope to try and make him feel a little more at ease.*

"I'll keep BJ busy. Dinner will be done shortly so when your hungry come on in, ok?"

*Offering Mick a soft smile Rosetta turns to try and find BJ.*


*Leaning aganst the counter with Carson close to her Jess can't help the grin that plays on her lips. Jumping up on the counter so she is eye level with Carson Jess wraps her lags around his waist and pulls him close to her. Drawing her lips close to Carson Jess whispers.*

"I don't think I ever could have enough of you. My stomach can wait, my lips can't."

*Bring her lips to Carson's once more Jess press them fermly aganst his own. Her amrs finding his back, and the other the back of his head than the side of his face and down his neck before retreating back to his head. The moment lingered, the passion continuing the happyness coursing through Jess.*

* I'll be ok, I'm always ok. I just don't want to find him and relize we were to late. Or know he is alive and not know where. I just want this to be done and over with. Everyone has been through to much.

Katie looks through some files on the computer trying her best to keep on task. If they were going to do this and not lead on to it she had to keep up with her work. It was hard though, oh so hard to know that maybe just maybe Scott was out there hurt, or even worse.

Hey I was thinking J, do you think talking to my Aunt and Uncle would help any? I mean they have been dealing with the Agency for years and they might have some helpful information that could help.*

Least of all

Mick swipes the side of his head with the back of his hand, his jaw set firmly. Looking at Rosetta, it’s plain to see that this pains him more than anything.

“His foreleg is broken in more place than one… trying to fix it would just put us and him through heck, not to mention the bills. Even if it were possible to get him back on his feet, he’d never carry a rider well… and he went berserk on me out there… he’d never be a safe one to ride.”

Mick pauses, swallowing hard, and trying to ignore his physical pain for now. “I’m sorry. Maybe I took him on too soon…”

Emotions rising again, he turns to leave. “Just keep BJ away… I don’t want him to see this.”


Carson returns Jess’ kiss, his own grip tightening around her, bringing her even closer against him. His hand moves to cradle the back of her head, the other caressing the side of her face, his thumb slowly running along her cheek.

As she pulls away, his eyes display mischief mixed with disappointment, the edges of his mouth starting to grin.

Keeping his arms around Jess, he walks behind her, just to teasingly pull her away from the cupboard just as she reaches for the plates. “I think lunch can wait another…” He leans down over her shoulder to kiss her cheek. “Two minutes?”

His arms slide together around her waist before he turns her around again, backing her up against the counter. “Unless you’re really that hungry and you’ve had enough of me for one day.”


I can't stop thinking about it either.

Jason flips through some files, running his finger down to a list of phone numbers. Some had been scratched out and rewritten. He stops, still unable to concentrate.

I don't know... I don't know if he's really alive or not. The Agency is crooked enough to hold him.. and who better to hold than the one guy who could royally hack our system?

Jason tries to set his mind straight and clear his thoughts, but it just won't work.

I just don't want to even hope that he's alive though... after all we've been through... I just don't want to hope and then be disappointed... least of all you.

Craving

*Rosetta looks up from the pot of stew on the stove he was cooking hearing Mick. Though her face drains of the blood when she see him. The cut on his head still oozing blood, and the gun in hand Rosetta new all was not right.

Coming around the counter she heads twords Mick worry in her eyes.*

"Mick, whats wrong what happend?"

*Looking out the front door just a little she can't see much but last she new Mick was training Cyclone again. Rosetta hated to think that the horse was going to be lost. He has such a promising furure and it was the last horse before winter Rosetta was going to be able to buy.*

"He's hurt that bad? Theres no hope for him at all?"

*Rosetta's eyes held promise, hope though she new this happend often she hated when it did. Weather she spent much time with them or not she was the one who hand picked them and they her a certin meaning to her. For one reason or other weather is was bloodline or history in the horses famile she picked them out with a pourpis and a reason. To lose one was like losing a dream.*

*As Carson's arm wraps around her waist Jess brings her arms around his neck. Stairing deep into his eyes her own lips upturn in a smile as her heart pound in her own chest.*

"Mmmm...pizza is always good, and as long as you come with it you tast sweeter than a milkshake and will satisfy my craving for something."

*Pressing her lips to Carson's Jess engages for a moment in a kiss of passion.One she could never tire of. Bring her hand to his back and running the other through his hair Jess lets the kiss linger for a long moment.

Finally though she breaks away a smile still on her face and Carson's arms still around her she turns so she has her back to him and walks with him close behind holding her into the kitchen to grab some plates.*

*Still a bit leery Dalton gives a nod and goes back to work. If doing this ment maybe making some friends that it was worth it in the long run. Anyways Jason said he could blame him if all else failed.*

*Turning Katie goes back to her own work though the day is long and drags.

I can't stop thinking about this whole thing J.

Talking and keeping a secret with Jason was easy because they didnt have to use words to comunicat anymore. No onw know when they were talked to eachother or about what. In a was it was kind of nice to keep things privet that way.

What if Scott really is alive, do you think The Agency would keep him that way?

Trying to go back to her work Katie keeps Domino close to her, sometimes it almost felt like Scott himself was there. His smell still lingered on the dog and it made Katie only hope she was alive even more. The office wasnt the same with out him.*

Sickening job

Jason is relieved that Dalton agrees to help. The tech guy seemed less than sociable, a little too cocky, and distrusting to boot. But at least he was willing to help them out with this one. "Thanks, Dalton."

Jason and Katie head back to his office, working some, though too anxious about Dalton's work. Finally hearing from him, Jason gives a start, all ears. 'That's awesome, Dalton."

Yeah... it is something... At the very least, we might get a track on the Agency if they're the ones that hacked us. If not then...we've still done TJY a favor, Scott or no Scott, and Reese can't be too displeased with us for that.

"We'll be right in to take a look."

Jason nods to Katie. "Alright, let's go see what he's got."

Making sure she comes with him, Jason heads to Dalton's office once again. This time he knocks before entering, showing a little more respect. Once inside, he shuts the door again, ensuring that no one else is listening. "Okay..." He moves around the desk to see what Dalton has found. His eyebrows raise. "Washington state? That's interesting."

He sighs and straightens, folding his arms across his chest. "So they might be located there...and they hacked our system...whoever it is." He starts to pace, his mind reeling. "It has to be Agency related, whether it's Scott or not. Because if it is him, then it's obviously got something to do with the Agency. And if it's not him, they're just toying with our heads. But..."

Jason pauses, turning to look at Katie and Dalton again. "If it was the Agency trying to toy with us, I can almost guarantee that we got the location wrong...though I'd be surprised they'd let us find a location at all. That's not like them."

He bites his lip, his emotions starting to rage again.

It's got to be Scott...anything else just doesn't make sense.

"I say we start doing a little more digging. Dalton, keep on doing your thing... Keep it quiet, so do your other work first, but keep digging on the side. Katie, I want you to go file hunting and find the last time this system was hacked into. I know it's been done by the Agency at least once before... I want to know what happened that time, and if it was similar to this... We might be able to narrow down motives that way. And me... I've got someone to call who may know that area of Washington and might have some information they don't even know they have."

Jason stops again, looking between Katie and Dalton. "Keep low for now... If we find anything substantial, we go to Reese. For now I say keep quiet just because he didn't initiate this. No one's going to lose their jobs." He eyes Dalton on purpose. "And if Reese questions you, dump it back on me. He'll give me heck but he won't do anything drastic." He quirks a crooked grin. "Every once in a while someone does something around here that's not quite...on record. Reese isn't a bad guy."

Jason paces a moment more, then halts at the door. "Alright. I say we get back to work then."


Carson grins as Jess lets him in, returning her kiss. "Mm...getting greeted like that, it's always good to see you too." A chuckle escapes and he taps her chin with a knuckle. "How could I forget about you?"

Coming farther into her house, he sets the box down on the kitchen counter and turns around in time to catch Jess by the waist, spinning her around to face him. "I made your favorite just for you. I woulda brought a milkshake but...it would've melted next to the pizza."


Cyclone refuses to stop, clinching the bit in his teeth and arching his neck, barging against the pressure. A curse slips out under Mick's breath as he tries to bring the half-running, half-bucking horse under control.

The gelding refuses to heed, worse than the days before, paying no attention to his rider's commands. Totally out of control, Cyclone charges, straight for the fence.

With no time to bail, Mick hears the sickening crack of fence rails being ripped apart. He tries to pull Cyclone's head up, but it's too late. Horse and rider go down.

The next few seconds are a blur. Mick can feel the weight of the horse coming down on his leg, and a shooting pain goes down his arm.

Then...silence.

Mick tries to catch his breath, squinting through the dust. He coughs, wincing as his ribs move. Trying to right himself, his mind clears enough for him to realize that his leg is pinned underneath Cyclone, and they're both in a heap on the other side of the fence, broken rails and all.

Straining though it hurts, Mick manages to somehow wriggle out from under the horse and rubs his knee gingerly, though nothing appears to be broken. Blood oozes from a gash in his forearm, received from a splintered rail. But his concentration is quickly diverted to the horse.

Moving around to the other side, Mick kneels by the sweaty, heavily-breathing animal. A lump rises in his throat as he sees the mangled leg. Pulling off his gloves, he wipes the sweat from his brow, then lays a hand on Cyclone's neck. The horse wasn't going anywhere.

Mick stands, putting his gloves in his back pocket and turns to walk back across the corral. He favors his right leg, and ignores his throbbing ribs and bleeding shoulder.

"Mick! You alright?" Jeff comes running up to him, worry in his eyes. "What happened."

Mick shakes his head and keeps walking. "I'll be fine. Just...don't let anyone back here."

Jeff stops though Mick keeps walking, and looks ahead to where the horse was. A sickening feeling rises in his stomach.

Mick gets to the house and climbs the porch with a hardness in his stare. He was about to do what he hated the most, and all emotion had to be ignored to be able to do it. Dirty and bloody himself, he enters the house, going straight for the closet. He sees Rosetta, but says nothing, reaching above the coats to retrieve his rifle. Grabbing his ammunition, he loads it with skill.

Taking the gun in one hand, he finally looks to Rosetta. "Keep BJ in the house until I come back."

WiFi

*Katie stands listing to Reese her own emotions slowly bubbled though she tried to keep the lid semi closed on them to not drive anyone through the roof.

It was true that this might be the agency, they could be using this to lure them out for something bigger but yet, there was still something there, something that said Scott very well might be alive. That in itself could not be pushed under the carpet and it killed Katie to think Reese would just brush it off.

Once Reese leaves the office Katie looks back at Jason. Much emotions was pooling behind her eyes that much could be seen. *

"I agree. I can't let this go knowing that Scott...just...might be alive. I just can't."

*Katie gives a small nod.

Disappointed or not we owe this to Scott. I'm with you on this.

Closely Katie follows Jason from his office scanning the floor quickly. Once at Dalton's office Katie slides in with Jason and stands close to him not sure what to say but listing for now.*

*As Katie and Jason enter his office Dalton looks up. Quirking an annoyed eyebrow by the intaruption and the failure of the knock her sets his hands on the desk. Listing fast Dalton finally clears his throut. He new who Scott was, he was the tech guy that everyone kept compairing him too and obvesly they didnt like him as much.*

"Well first I don't know if going behind Reese is a good thing He's my boss and if I get caught I could lose my job, but..I am good and if I need to do this to prove that to you and everyone alse than I will. Next I know Scott means alot to you all and if he is alive that would be good."

*Dalton can't help the question the stirs in my. If Scott was found did that mean He would be out of a job? Where did that put him? Trying to push the questions of his mind Dalton trys to focus.*

"Ok, I'll see what I can do."

*Kaite shifts just a little as she studys Dalton. He was defintly full of himself but there was something that stuck out, just something about him Katie felt comfortable with. She wasnt sure what it was but she felt she could in fact trust him.

I'm pretty sure if I am reading him right we can.*

"Hulk, this would mean alot. We KNOW your good and that is why we are asking you."

*Dalton looks to Katie, and gives a small smile. She was so young, so much life lived in her. Her was a genuin person in what she said.*

"Ok Kit Kat, I'll see what I can do but I am not making any promises that I can get anything that will help."

And so the time goes by and it seems like hours takes days. The information that was being look for took some work and those trying to get it became frustrated but no more than an hour had gone by and finally was was being looked for was found.

*Dalton pushs the button on his intercome for Jason's office where he new Katie and he both would be. Taping the pen on his paper for a moment Dalton is silent looking over the information he had gathered. Finally letting out a sigh she starts talking.*

" Hotshot, Kit Kat I got that information you wanted. Is it ok to talk now?"

"Yeah Hulk its just J and I."

"Ok well it looked like they were using a wifi connection. It's harder to track because its through sattalight internet but with a little work I got it. I have a map here of a raidus area of where the signal could of come from if you want to come and take a look. It's not much but its something."

*Katie looks to Jason and gives a small nod.

Its not much but its something.

She wanted to hope Scott was ok, but she didn't want to hope to much in case it was not real at all.*

*Jess can't help the smile that spreads across her face as she opens the door and finds Carson standing there with the pizza. It was always good seeing him and it always made her smile to be remembered.*

"Well well well look who it is. I was starting to think you really had forgotten about little old me."

*Giving another smile Jess steps out of the way to let Carson step in. Leaning in she gives him a kiss on the lips.*

"It's always good to see you."

No way out

Reese looks up quickly as the strange message disappears from his computer. Attempting to enter his files, it works this time, and he grins. "Hey, Dalton. Good job."


Jason's jaw is tight as he stares at the paper, then looks back up to Katie. "I don't know... I want to believe this is true, but I'm too afraid that it's just some sick joke the Agency is playing on us." He sets the paper down and goes for his phone. "Reese."

"Yeah."

"Come to my office."

"Now? I just..."

"Yes, now. Please. Katie and I need to see you."

"Alright, alright. I'm coming."

Jason hangs up and sighs. He can feel his emotions starting to churn and does his best to keep a lid on them. Pacing the floor, he's quiet until Reese comes.

"Jase, what is it?"

Jason motions for him to shut the door.

Reese obeys, and comes closer, setting a hand on Trooper's head absentmindedly. "What's wrong?"

"That strange message....I deciphered it." Jason points to the paper on his desk. "I've only shown Katie."

Reese's eyes widen and he picks up the paper. "Ireland's neighbor... Scott?"

Jason nods. "What do you think?"

"I...I don't know." Reese blinks and tries to collect his thoughts. "We...I mean..." He glances at Katie, not wanting this to be too painful, but he has to talk it through. "We saw that house blow up and....there was nothing left."

Jason sets his hands on his hips. "I know. But what if..."

"I don't even want anyone to hope this is true," Reese cuts him off. His tone is slightly stern. "This is the way the Agency plays. Don't forget that. Scott died. We all saw it. Medridge is trying to get to us and we can't let him." He cocks his head to catch Jason's eyes. "You got that? Hotshot?"

"Yeah, yeah." Jason rubs the back of his neck wearily. "So now what?"

"We let it sit." Reese sets the paper back down. "I'll have Dalton put up some new securities to ensure the Agency can't get in. And then we pray they didn't get much."

"Alright." Jason watches Reese leave, then stares at the shut door for several quiet moments. His emotions continued to boil and he lets them seep out. Distrust... disbelief... loyalty... anger... remorse... Adrenaline stirred them all together, bringing them to the surface.

He shifts his gaze to Katie. "I can't just let this go."
I know this is irrational. "I don't think Reese is right."
I know I can't believe it, and I know this could be a major disappointment. "I can't sit and do nothing..."

Jason stops, searching Katie's eyes. I don't want you to be disappointed either. You've been hurt enough. But he knew what she would say. "We can't say anything to Reese. Come on." Grabbing the paper, he heads for the door, making sure Katie comes with him.

Heading down the hall, he goes to Dalton's office and enter without knocking, letting Katie in, then shutting the door again. "Sorry to barge in on you, Hulk, but we got a mystery to solve." Jason approaches the desk, taking an authoritative stance. "Reese has probably already told you to reset security... but I got a side job for you. If you're any good, I want you to try and track the activity that went on this morning. Get a trace on something...anything. I don't care if it's the operating system they used, their internet carrier or simply how long they were in. I'm looking for a location at the very most."

Jason pauses and shows Dalton the paper. "There's a slim chance our friend is still alive. But there's a catch. You can't tell Reese any of this. He thinks it's a hoax, and he might be.... he's probably right. But I don't want to miss a chance, even if it's a slim one."

Hero, I hope we can trust this guy.


"Delivery!" Carson raps a knuckle on Jess' door, a box from Mom and Pop's in hand. It was unmarked, but inside was pizza. The restaurant didn't have delivery, but Carson was on an extended break, and he knew Jess didn't have to work 'til second shift today. It had been a nippy walk, and he hadn't called first, but he figured it would be a nice surprise. It was a whole lot better than staying alone doing nothing for several hours.


The pain that ran down Scott's arms, neck and back was beginning to numb. His hands were strung up above his head, stretching him out so he couldn't move. The cement room was dark and damp. His head hung down, consciousness something that he was beginning to hate. He hadn't told them. They didn't know. He hadn't helped them. But they wouldn't stop. He'd given them bogus information that had messed with their own system. The result was this position now. There was no end. There was no way out.

White Rabbit

* False hope of what? What's going on J?

Katie enters the office and walks over to Jason's desk looking down at the paper he was looking at trying to see what he was talking about. As the paper turns and Katie looks down at it and the words her head gives a sudden leap in her throat.

Sc....Scoott's alive..but how? Thats not possbale, we saw....I...*

"Why would someone use Scott to get to us though. I don't see any other reason than what is in front of us. but...."

* Katie thinks for a long moment.

...Could the white rabbit just have been captured in wonderland?

Like a lightbulb going off Katie sits up for a moment.*

"Thats it, that has to be it."

*Going around to the other side of Jason's desk Katie dials on the intercom for Dalton's office.*

"Dalton, I thought of something alse for you to try."

"Ok what do ya got for me?"

"Try Alice. Try the password as Alice."

"Alright one second."

*Clicking can be hurd on the other line and than a suddon beep.*

"Kit Kat your a geanus. How did you figure that out?"

"Lucky Guess. Thanks Dalton."

*After hanging up the phone Katie looks at Jason's computer screen as his system resets itself. Turning to Jason Katie gives a small smile though there was a hidden pain behind her eyes.*

"Now what? Should we tell Reese about the message or wait?"

The Lord is my Shepherd

Trooper greets Katie at the door without so much as a low 'woof', sidling up to her and licking her hand.

Jason looks up quickly, standing by his desk with his hand on the paper he'd been writing on. The tension can be felt, and shows in his face.

Sorry you had to go through all that... I know it couldn't have been easy.

He swallows hard, the confusion lingering. "I...I worked with that message that popped up. And..." He hesitates.

I don't want false hope to arise... I don't want to assume... I don't want to believe something that isn't true...

"I figured out it was a word scramble and a riddle combined. And only someone who knew Scott and was from TJY would figure it out."

Jason pauses again, searching Katie's eyes. Finally he turns his paper around so she can see the words he had written. Ireland's Neighbor is alive.

"Someone purposely bashed our system to get our attention...so we'd see this message... "

It's not the Agency's style to fool us with puzzles as communication... it's not their style to not have caused more damage if they're the ones that hacked in. But I don't want to hope... I'm afraid to... But what if this is somehow true?


"He won't talk."

Two rough henchmen drag a limp and beaten victim into the room with the bright light. His head hangs. He doesn't try to look up.

The one sitting rolls his eyes. "Then you haven't tried everything yet, now have you?" He gets up from his chair, walking over to the victim who was slung between the other two men. He reaches out to tilt his chin up.

Scott squints out one eye to make out the angry face before him, but makes no move.

The ringleader sends a fist into Scott's gut. "People like you suffer." Another jab goes to the ribs. "People like you wish they were dead long before we let them die." A right hook catches his jaw. "People like you beg for mercy by the time we're done." The ringleader sneers. "Tell us what we need to know. Or these two are going to show you what torture means."

Scott's head remains hanging, a drop of blood falling to the floor. His voice is a forced whisper. "The Lord is my shepherd...I shall not want...He leads me..."

The ringleader scoffs and backs off. "Great. He's a fruitcake."

"He's been doing that the whole time." One of the goons rolls his eyes. "He's some sort of religious freak. We can't get him to shut up."

"Make him!" The ringleader's hieghtened tone indicates his lack of paitience. "I want that information by tonight!"

pass

"....try Domino. That might be it, thats the name of his dog."

*Katie sits with her elbows on Dalton's desk. They had been at this for a while now and it was a bit frustrating. They had tryed almost everything Katie could think of that had to do with Scott. Getting Jason's message Katie can't help but small a little though still feeling akward.

Yeah, I guess I am on his good side. Though I have to admit even being able to accept Scott being gone it still hurts to pull up these memories.

Letting out a small sigh Katie leans her head down on the desk for a moment trying to think.*

"...Try moutain Dew."

*The time pass as Katie and Dalton continue to work. It seemed almost hopless. Neather being able to figure it out, and Dalton moving on to try some other things. Getting Jason's message again and hearing the urgentcy of it Kaite stands and gives an apploigetic look to Dalton.*

"Sorry Dalton I need to head out and get a little frish air. Gonna see Jason fast too. Sorry I couldent be more help."

*Not even lookng up from the computer Dalton gives a small nod.*

"Thanks for trying Kit Kat. I know it was hard."

*As Katie leave the office and closes the door behind her all that can be hurd is the clicking on the keys and for a moment a sicking pain in her stomach as she remembers closes the door some seeing Scott. Shaking her head Katie refocuses and heads for Jason's office. Knocking on the door softly Katie opens the door slowly knowing Jason would know it was her.*

"Hey J. Whats up?"

*Entering the rest of the way Katie closes the door again.*