Help

Over hearing the camotion as he came down the hall Dalton raises an eyebrow. Staying in the distince he just watches as Austin and Rick go back an forth untill his eyes fall to Scott. He couldnt help but feel sorry for him. It seemed like so long ago Dalton had felt so scaired of life and people, not for the same reasons as Scott but the feeling was still there.

Keeping his distince untill Austin was gone Dalton slowly make his way over to Scott giving Nate a nod that he was not going to cause any harm.

Not standing quite as tall as normal Dalton holds the papers he had in one hand while he held the other out in friendship to help Scott up.

"I had another problem with one of the programs I was trying to work on. I was hoping I would catch you before you left to try and fix it for me again. I tryed working on it all day and I am just not sure what I am doing wrong.'

Dalton dosnt smile as Scott but that was ok just something about his face showed there was a smile. He new once again he was telling a fib but he had over hurd Rick wanting to have Scott stay and if this ment he would than Dalton was happy to help. Though he still couldnt put his finger on what it was about Scott that drew him in Dalton new there was just something about him.

"We can even take Domino into our office. Austin can keep her from the building but that office is our right? So that means we have a say in who is in it."

The words "Our" slip so easy from Dalton's lips that he dosnt even skip a beat saying them. They seemed the right words to say and he new they were.

Sapphire looks up fast from her desk as Rick starts to talk to her. She had overhurd part of what went on but tryed to lose herself before she could consintrate to much on it. She hated fight and tryed not to get into the middle.

Hearing Rick's request Sapphire gives a nod and stands from her desk.

"Yeah I will see what I can do."

She didnt get along to well with her brother anymore but that didnt mean she was just going to feed in to the wolfs. Weather she said it alot or not she cared alot for her brother still.

Walking over to where Nate and Dalton already where Sapphire gives Nate a small smile and than looks to Scott taking her keys from her pocket.

"Hey you ready to go home little brother?"

Sapphires eyes question him as she bends down to try and help completly unawair of Dalton's question.

Seeing that Sapphire didnt know Nate stands.

"Dalton was just asking for his help actully with some computer stuff. That was if Scott wanted too."

Looking at Nate than Dalton and back at her brother Sapphire gives a small shrug.

"Its up to him. Whatever he wants to do it fine with me."

Struggle

Jason leans back in the kitchen chair, taking another swig of orange juice. A grin spreads on his face.

You're welcome.

He lazily glances to the clock, not having worried about getting up at any certain time. One hand absentmindedly strokes Trooper, who was sitting next to him, his head resting in his lap.

Yeah... I doubt I'll hear anything from Brown today. I'm not expecting any more news until after the meeting in a few days. You're right though... we might hear about it from Austin first.

He rolls his eyes and stands to finish his juice and put the glass in the sink.

Mm... lunch sounds good. I gotta take Clint's bike down to the shop and.... oh... I didn't tell you about that, did I. Long story. Anyway, want to meet at Mom and Pop's around noon? Maybe I can get Wyatt to come along... not that he needs an excuse to see Aerith. I'd like to find out what's up at work today without showing my face there if I can.


Bret's eyes start to dance before his lips begin to smile. He shifts his hand to curl his fingers around Charlotte's. "First off, I'm always careful. And second..." He locks eyes with her. "I would expect nothing less than to see you there whenever you can make it."

His smile remains as excitement starts to build. "I'll call Kirk back today and go from there."


Axel lifts his eyebrows at Jess' stuttering, unable to get a word in before she's already hung up. Blinking, he can't help a little chuckle, and shakes his head as he hangs up the phone. In the back of his mind, something warned him to tread lightly, but he knew he'd be skipping lunch today, just in case Jess had been serious.


Rick sits at his desk working, when he receives Misty's reply. Heaving a weary sigh, he knows that she is right. Scott had to want to go... They could all force him all they wanted to, but unless he wanted to be there, it wouldn't do any good anyway. He needed it, no doubt... but how would he see it for himself?

Scott sets his breakfast plate aside, having eaten only half, and hoping that Rick wouldn't bother him about it this morning. Domino perks up at his movements and hops off the bed, skittering to the door where she stops, turns around and looks back at him. She gives a little whine.

Scott bites his lip. The last couple days, other people had been available to help take care of Domino and take her outside for him. But he was getting tired of asking, and he knew that even though the others didn't mind, he also knew it was an inconvenience for them, and he hated asking.

Looking around, he sees both Rick and Misty busy with work. Domino whines again. Scott knows he's torturing the poor dog, and finally swings his feet over the side of the bed. Not really thinking about the fact that he's in his bare feet, he heads to the door. The tiles are cold, but he doesn't notice. He was all too used to that feeling.

Rick looks up from his desk. "Scott?"

"What?"

"Heading out?"

"Domino."

"Okay." Rick nods. He wanted to offer to help, but he knew that every time he did, it made Scott feel less and less capable, and that wasn't good either.

Scott hesitates at the door, but finally opens it, letting Domino out into the hall, then slipping out behind her.

Down the hall and to the main floor, he keeps his eyes down, not wanting to see all the people that were there this morning. He'd just as soon go unnoticed. He spots Susanne out of the corner of his eye, then Laura, but keeps on walking. If he stopped, he knew he'd want to turn right around and go back to the safe confines of the infirmary.

Once to the exit, he hesitates again, but he doesn't have much of a choice. Stepping outside with his dog, he stuffs his hands in his hoodie pockets, waiting impatiently. As he stands, the sound of a car catches his attention, and he looks up in time to see a vehicle park and Austin emerge. A fear immediately comes over Scott, and he backs up a step to the door. His heart racing, he looks around for Domino, almost frantic for her to be finished so he could go back inside. The outdoors were overwhelming enough without this too.

Not seeing the dog anywhere, but suddenly feeling paws on the back of his legs, he jumps in surprise. Not waiting though, he quickly scoots back inside the building to make his way back across the floor, this time faster than on his way out.

Just as he's reaching the corner near Nate's cubicle, he meets Susanne. Unfortunately, neither were paying attention. The collision is over in a matter of seconds, but the results make several other people cringe. Papers go flying, coffee splatters onto the floor, and Domino yelps as she's tripped over. Scott somehow winds up on the floor after trying to catch several papers and then avoiding stepping on his dog, while Susanne frantically tries to clean up.

"Ohhh, Scott, I'm so sorry," she apologizes.

"It was my fault," he mumbles. Sitting on the floor for a moment, he grabs some of her papers, noting that several are now stained with coffee. "I'm sorry."

"Nothing a copy machine won't fix." Susanne tries to make light of it, even though she now had to redo a whole stack of work.

"What is going on?!" Austin's voice makes everyone look up.

Scott slowly rises to his feet, backing up against the cubicle wall.

Susanne looks at Austin and shakes her head with a laugh. "We just ran into each other is all. No problems."

Austin's eyes widen slightly as a frown forms. "It hardly looks like no problem," he retorts. Spying Domino, he points at her. "I want that dog out of here. She does not belong in this building."

Scott blinks, putting another step of room between him and Austin. "She was just..."

"Look, I know she keeps you company," Austin retorts. "But get her out of here before she causes any more trouble."

"It wasn't her, it was.."

"I mean it!" Austin's voice is raised sternly. "Either you take her out, or I will."

Scott can't even bring himself to look Austin in the eye. Anger, frustration and hurt boil up inside of him, and he lowers hie head to quickly leave the scene, heading back down the hall.

Susanne frowns at her boss. "That was a little harsh," she mentions quietly.

"If harshness is what it takes to get the job done, so be it." Austin shoulders past her, on his way to his office. "See me in ten minutes for a list of records I need to see."

Only when his back is turned does Susanne throw up her hands and roll her eyes, muttering under her breath. Squatting down, she picks up the rest of her mess, then goes to get something to sop up the coffee too.

Scott pads down the hallway, the hot tears returning to his eyes. Entering the infirmary, he heads straight to the bed where he sits down, putting on his shoes and socks.

Rick looks up and eyes him with confusion. "Everything okay?" No answer. "Scott?"

Scott still doesn't answer him, and finishes tying his sneakers. Grabbing Domino's leash, he snaps it to her collar then heads to the door again.

Rick stands up. "Scott? Where are you going?"

"Home."

"But Scott! I said I'd take you tonight. What..." The door falls shut against his words. He looks to Misty with wide eyes, clueless about what had happened and now not knowing what to do. Desperate, he spins around and follows after Scott. He only catches up to him out on the main floor, in the same spot the accident had happened. "Scott, wait." He reaches out and puts a hand on Scott's shoulder.

Scott skids to a stop and sidesteps out from under Rick's hand. "Just leave me alone," he begs.

"I don't want to leave you alone. I want to help you."

"You can't." Scott winces as a salty tear forms in his blind eye, making it sting. "Just let me go."

"But I wanted you here for one more day. Just stay. Tell me what happened." Rick's desperation is evident in his voice as he tries to convince his younger friend to stay. But it did no good.

Scott turns back around, aiming once more for the exit. The outdoors were terrifying, but staying here was worse.

As a last resort, Rick steps forward and takes Scott's arm in a firm hold. "Don't go yet."

It was the wrong move. As Scott is physically held back, a wave of panic hits him. "No!" Ripping his arm loose, he trips and almost falls again. Rick reaches out to help him, but the more restraint he puts on Scott, the more Scott fights, and the more he fights, the more restraint Rick applies to try and stop him.

Seeing her master in what she considered danger, Domino starts to whine and bark, bringing even more unwanted attention to the scene.

Rick tries to hold Scott still, but to no avail. In an attempt to restrain him so he doesn't hurt anybody or himself, Rick tightens his hold and steps forward. But in doing so, he accidentally hooks Scott's foot.

Struggling blindly, Scott loses his balance and falls to the floor once more.

Rick is on his knees instantly. "Scott... calm down... please... I'm sorry, are you alright?"

Scott tries to get his bearings, his shoulder hurting from the fall. Backed up against the cubicle, he rights himself, bringing his knees up to his chest to wrap his arms around his legs and bury his face. He felt stupid, embarrassed and frustrated. Rocking slightly, he wills the tears not to come, and tries to banish the insistent fear.

"Scott," Rick repeats. "Are you alright?"

"Now what?!"

Rick looks up to see Austin with his hands on his hips. Rising to his feet again, Rick's face turns to one of irritation. "It's nothing. I'm taking care of it."

Austin sighs in disgust at seeing Domino again. "I said to get that dog out of here. She's caused enough damage!"

Seeing absolutely no mercy, and now wondering if that was what had set Scott off in the first place, Rick straightens, looking boldly up at Austin. "As Scott's physician, I authorized Domino's presence as therapy." He hadn't really, but he could have, and Austin was being ridiculous. "She's caused no trouble, nor has Scott."

"You call this no trouble?" Austin gestures to all the people who had stopped working to see what was going on. "You get your patient under control and get rid of his dog. I've said it for the last time!"

"So help me, Austin!" Rick's voice raises with a righteous anger. "This 'patient' is your agent! He's a human being! Stop treating him like a burden and try to understand! You're the one that has caused the damage around here. You are the one responsible for the well-being of those in this building, or have you forgotten that?"

Trembling at all the shouting, Domino tries to find comfort in Scott, but she can't get his attention, and finally she scoots around the corner into Nate's cubicle, searching for a place to hide.

Austin's eyes narrow, his jaw tightening. "How dare you," he hisses to Rick. "Stand down, or Scott won't be the only one here without a job."

Rick's fingers curl to form fists at his sides. There were so many things he'd like to say right now. So many things Austin deserved to hear. But now he couldn't. He had been warned... he had been threatened. For his own sake, and others, he could argue no more. Rick takes a deep breath. "I will handle this situation," he response coolly.

"Good." Austin points to the end of the main floor. "I want to see you in my office about some policy changes. Now."

Rick's eyes widen and he gestures to Scott. "I'm trying to..."

"Now! He'll have to pick himself up. He's a grown man, not a little kid."

"But I..."

"One more time, Rick!" Austin glares at the physician. "Follow me now, or you won't have a reason to come back tomorrow."

A curse is on the tip of Rick's tongue, but he resists. "I'm right behind you," he mutters. "Let me at least grab a notepad."

"Fine. You have one minute." Austin spins on his heel and stalks back towards his office.

Rick is seething, with no way to express it. He was angry at Austin, and he was desperate to help Scott. Nothing was going right. Nothing was turning out for the best. Was he doing a bad job? Was he doing something wrong? If he just would have been paying closer attention this morning...

Groaning, he tries one more time to get Scott up. He kneels next to him, speaking gently. "Scott... please... come back to the infirmary, okay?"

Scott keeps his face buried, his words muffled. "I wanna go home."

"I know you do. But I can't take you right now." Rick waits for a response, but receives none. Sighing, he stands back up at a total loss. He didn't have any choice but to go see Austin and leave Scott here.

Looking in to Nate's cubicle, Rick's eyes show he's at his wit's end. "I'm sorry," he apologizes quietly. "Stay here a minute with Scott, would you?"

Trusting Nate, Rick turns around and takes a detour before heading to Austin's office. Stopping at another cubicle, he leans over the wall, tapping on it lightly. "Sapphire?" He looks at her with seriousness, knowing she'd probably heard half of the ruckus already. "I need your help. We have to get your brother out of here before Austin can cause any more damage. I didn't want Scott going to an empty house, but there's not much of a choice left. I'm asking you... would you see if you can get him up and take him home? I'll deal with the fallout from Austin if he finds out."

Scott remains on the floor, tightening his grip around himself. All of this was his fault. People were risking there jobs, all because of him. Why did he have to keep making mistakes? Why did he have to feel so stupid and continue to embarrass himself? He wanted to get up... he wanted to do what Rick asked... but something inside had such a strong hold on his will, that he couldn't. He was so emotionally drained, that the effort of simply getting up and walking to the infirmary was too big of a battle to face. He rocks a little more as if hoping if he could just stay here a little longer that soon all of this would just go away on its own. He just wanted it to go away... he just wanted to stop the pain... stop the fear.

Two Conditions

Receving the email fomr Rick Misty looks up from her desk. Her eyes showed heavy bags under them telling the story of how she didnt sleep well the night before. Trying to force a smile anyways Misty was here and she had to make the best of it.

As her eyes drift to Scott her face softens more. She felt sorry for her friend, and her heart went out to him. Typing a quick message back to Rick Misty hated the words she new were true.

I fear there is no convincing him. The only way Scott would get anything out of it would be if he wanted to go. He needs to go by free will not by being forced. Once he see he has a problem I am sure he will want to go. One could only hope it wont be to late by than.

Ambaling out into the kitchen a small smile spreads across Katie's face as the single rose on the table. No question needed to be asked, no wondering entered her mind Katie new who it was from. Gentily picking it up Kaite brings it to her noise smelling the sweet sent.

Your to good to me J, thank you.

Moving to put the flower into some water Katie glances at the clock. It was a good thing she didnt work today or should would be late it was already 8:30, though she already new getting there on time was going to be a challange because she was use to going in and leaving when she felt like it.

Another boring day is a head of us unless we can think of something to spruce it up with. How about lunch and a movie or something? Have to wait for Brown's call to us anyways, though something tells me we wont HAVE to wait from him. I am sure Austin will be giving us an ear full.

Taking the flowing in her room she sets it on her dresser next to the others she had dryed out. Looking at them it was funny to remember each time and place of where she got them. Each had a memorie, each had a story that Katie would always remember.

Charlotte studys her husbands face as he talks seeing the look in his eyes she can tell he wanted this. From the first time she met him she could tell he had a longing for racing and going fast but now it was just showing all the more.

Taking a sip of her coffee Charlotte thinks for a moment before finally speeking a soft smile on her lips.

"Well, its ligit and not ileagl. You wont be traviling and you will get payed for it I dont see any reason why I should say no. But you have to promise me a few things."

Charlotte eyes show that the first request was one she really ment. Racing could be dangerous and she'd seen accidents people never got a chanse to walk away from.

"First you have to promise me you will becarfel. I don't want to lose you when I just got you for good. I'd hate for anything to happen to you."

The next request Charlotte's lips turn up into a curl as her eyes sparkle and dance.

"You have to promise me next I can come and see you once and a while. I wanna be able to cheer you on from the crowd."

Taking another sip of her coffee Charlotte reachs out and rests her hand ontop of Bret's giving her aprovle that if he wanted this, than she wouldnt stand in the way.

Hearing the voice on the answering mashean Jess jumps out of bed almost kicking the coffee table on the way out from her bedroom. She had, had a late night last night and she head was spliting open this morning. She just wanted to stay in bed but she thought hse hurd Axel's voice on her answering mashean. Picking up the phone Jess fiddles with it for a moment before finally turning it the right way.

"Axel, Hey...My car is read...ok. Well if you do happen to be around this afternoon if I am feeling up to it as well maybe we can grab a bit to eat as my thank you to you picking me up and fixing my car."

As if relizing what she just had offered in the state she was in she brings a hand to her face and studders just a little bit.

"I mean...umm..if you....ahhh yeah I will be there sometime this afternoon to pick it up. Ok...thank again Axel. See you than."

Hanging up the phone Jess slightly shakes her head as she goes back into her bedroom flopping down on the bed and pulling the blankets over her head. Just a few more hours of sleep than she would wake and shower getting ready for the day.

Morning comes again

Band practice continues for about another hour, the guys all enjoying it, and not really wanting it to end, even though they were tired from a long day.

Jason's voice accompanies his playing, the tone so mellow and sweet, that could put anyone in a trance. Even when the tempo picks up, and the rock sound gets rougher, his voice remains smooth, seeming to hold them all together.

Kyle joins in with backup on some of the songs, but mainly sticks to his keyboard as usual, allowing Jason the lead both instrumentally and vocally.

When the notes of the last song finally die away, Jason just sits for a few minutes

This was the first nice distraction I've had in a while... I don't want to give it up and go back to the real world.

He tosses Katie a look, accompanied by a crooked grin.

Rocky leans back in his chair, twirling his pop can in his hand. "So, Kyle, when are you gonna be singing in the spotlight, eh?"

Kyle looks up quickly from his music. He eyes Rocky for a moment, almost as if warning him not to say more

Jason sees it, and quirks an eyebrow.

What was that for? Is it just me, or is Kyle just being strange tonight?

Phil looks to Rocky with a response. "He had the spotlight for a while this year when Jason was gone."

"Oh yeah, that's right."

Kyle rolls his eyes. "Everyone was glad when Jason got back."

Mike smirks. "You did fine."

Rocky eyes Kyle almost suspiciously as if asking a question, or implying he knew more. "I'm sure he did."

"I keep trying to get him to sing more," Jason adds. "But he insists on staying in the background."

Kyle shrugs. "You're the better singer."

Now it's Jason's turn to roll his eyes. He, Mike, Jen and Phil would probably all agree that Kyle's voice wasn't as strong as his. Kyle had a nice tone and was musically talented, but it was a simple fact that while Jason had been gone, JetStream had suffered some. They'd done very well still, and had not been in dire straights, but it was simply known that Jason had the stronger voice. But even so, they didn't like saying it, and Kyle still didn't give himself enough credit, even if he wasn't meant to be the lead singer. "Oh, just stop," Jason chides. "We're a team, remember? It takes all of us to get the right sound, no matter who is singing or playing the instruments."

"Amen," Mike agrees.

Rocky continues to look at Kyle, his eyes narrowing slightly as if waiting for him to say something, but it never comes.

Jen shakes her head and wheels herself to the stairs. "Sorry to break up you little boys, but I need help upstairs, unless you're all too involved in your egos."

Mike laughs and gets up from his drumset. "Aw, we wouldn't leave you, you know that."

"Mm...at least you wouldn't." Jen's eyes sparkle as Mike comes to lift her up and carry her up the stairs. Phil is close behind, carrying the wheelchair.

The basement grows quiet for another minute until finally Rocky stands up and stretches. "Well... g'night, y'all. See you soon." He ambles upstairs with a yawn, ready to head home.

Jason sighs and sets his guitar aside, looking in Katie's direction. "Guess it's my turn. Trooper won't forgive me if I'm any later than this... either that or I'll have a mess to clean up."

He grins a little, then shifts his gaze to where Kyle was still standing, just seeming to be studying the keyboard for no apparent reason. "Hey..."

Kyle looks up quickly. "Yeah?"

"You alright?"

A smile surfaces on Kyle's face. "Of course. Why?"

"Guess you seemed a little far away a few times."

"Not feeling the greatest." Kyle shrugs, but his quirky smile remains. "Had a headache all day, my right contact is giving me problems and I'm kinda tired. Sorry if I bummed out on you guys."

"Nah." Jason finally stands up and shakes his head. "I know I wasn't a hundred percent tonight either."

"Oh, but we'll be ready for the next show," Kyle nods with confidence. He laughs. "And if we aren't, we'll give the audience a good show anyway."

Jason chuckles. "That's for sure. ...Alright, well... see ya later."

"Okay, man. Later."


"Night, Carson."

"Yeah... good night." Carson watches Axel leave before letting himself in the back door of Mom and Pop's and going to his room. Easing down on the bed, he lets out a long sigh. He was grateful for Axel's company. They hadn't talked much. Axel hadn't pushed, and Carson had kept most to himself. The quiet had been different though. A cup of coffee instead of a shot of whiskey had been different, and Axel's quiet company had been different. But...Carson had to admit that it was probably better. At least he wasn't feeling guilty for doing anything stupid. All he was feeling right now was sorrow for how Jess must be feeling.

Looking at the clock, he sees it's late, but he'd done some thinking tonight, and a phone call was due. Going out into the hall, he dials and waits, getting the answering machine. She probably slept through the ringing. "Hey, Dani, um... sorry if I woke you up. I, um... guess I'm ready to take you up on your offer if it still stands. Decided maybe a change would be good, ya know?"

In truth, after tonight, he really did want a change. Something. Anything. Though he hoped for a friendship with Jess, he knew that a light in his life was gone now, and without her, and without the one who had stolen his heart, things just seemed to have turned gray. Within twenty-four hours, things had changed again, and he needed a distraction. Maybe he just hoped that a change of scenery would help.

He clears his throat. "So anyway... stop by tomorrow sometime maybe and we'll talk. Night, sis. See ya."

Hanging up, he trudges back to his room, hoping that sleep would come easier than the day had gone.


Axel ambles down the sidewalk, hands in his pockets as he breathes in the night air. Becoming friends with Carson hadn't been planned, and it was an interesting relationship they were forming. Axel found Carson's behavior and thought processes intriguing, knowing without asking how the past had obviously shaped him.

Much had gone unsaid, but neither had cared. Both men knew better than to ask too many questions, each knowing too much about the other to have any disrespect.

Axel finally makes it back to the auto shop, but instead of going upstairs, he sits at the bottom for a long while, simply enjoying the quiet... the night. Being able to see the stars signified a freedom he savored.


Receiving Misty's prompting, Scott sighs and shuffles the cards. Finally he reaches out and takes one more bite of his supper, though says nothing.

Contemplating a moment, he shrugs and starts to deal out some cards, signaling that Misty is free to join him.

He's quiet, forcing himself to make a little small talk as they play a couple games. He really was grateful that Misty didn't mind sticking around for a while. At least it was a few more minutes that he could concentrate on something else.

By the time she goes home, they were even on wins, and three quarters of Scott's supper had been eaten. Now under the watch of Hal, the night starts, and Scott endures another round of nightmares until finally morning comes again...


"...How you feeling? I see you did a good job on supper last night."

Scott felt like a little kid as Rick greeted him that morning. He scoots up in bed, still under the blanket, and stifles a yawn. "Can I go home today?"

"Well... I promised you could. And I'm a man of my word. So when I go home tonight, I'll take you home, alright?"

Scott wanted to go now, but he also knew Rick wanted him there for the majority of the day in case his absence would work against him when trying to save his own job... if that job even really existed anymore. "Okay," he mumbles quietly.

Rick sighs deeply and slowly comes to sit on the bed. More needed to be said, and he feared the reaction, but this wasn't something he could spring on him at the last minute. "Scott... there's something else I want you to do for me, too."

Scott looks up quickly. "But you promised I..."

"You can go home," Rick assures. "And I won't make this an ultimatum. But I hope you'll consider it."

Scott swallows hard, his thin fingers fidgeting with the edge of the blanket. Domino crawls up from the foot of the bed to come sit on Scott's lap, almost as if trying to give him courage. He moves his hand from the blanket to her head, scratching her lightly.

"Scott..." Rick prompts him gently. "I think it would be good for you if...if you talked with somebody about what happened."

Scott's eyes shoot up, flashing with a mixture of emotions too quickly to be adequately read. "What do you mean?"

"I mean I want you to gain back your strength physically... and mentally too."

Scott's inner defenses rise. What happened to him was private. It hurt, and he didn't like exposing that wound. He could work through it on his own. "You want me to see a shrink," he mumbles.

Rick shakes his head. "Come on... don't twist it around." He keeps his tone soft and gentle. "I think it would be good for you to see a counselor. Get some things off your chest. Talk about..."

"No." Scott's retort comes as the most firm as anything he's said since he'd been back. His eyes fall downward and he looks at his dog.

"Please? It would..."

"No."

"But you can..."

"I don't want to!" Scott's raised voice comes as a bit of a surprise, as does his glare, even though he won't look up at Rick. He can feel hot tears pooling behind his eyes, and fights to keep them back. His tone comes back softer, almost childlike. "I just want to go home."

Rick's shoulders drop. He wasn't going to give up - this was too important for Scott's well-being, not to mention the effort it had taken just to get funding. But maybe for now, easing off would be best. "I'll take you home," he relents. "Come on... get yourself up for the day. I brought you some breakfast."

Moving to his desk, he writes a quick email to Misty, not wanting an audible conversation.
Trying to get Scott to see a counselor. Don't know what will convince him though. Any ideas?


Laura scurries around the house, not bothering to dry her hair, grabbing a quick breakfast of toast, and hurrying to the door. She was an hour late for work, and nothing seemed to be going her way this morning.

Tripping over Henry, she apologizes as he howls and goes running down the hall. "Sorry Henry!" She sighs and heads for the door.

Opening it up, she stops, almost stepping on the small object between the main and screen doors. A smile spreads on her lips. She knew this was not for her, but it still made her feel good, knowing that someone cared so much for her friend.

Picking up the red rose, she goes and sets it on the kitchen table, knowing Katie will see it when she gets up.


"So..." Bret swallows the rest of his coffee. "...he wants me to at least go down to the track and talk. I'm not sure exactly what he wants me to do, but I don't think I want to ride a circuit. They used to keep a few guys at the track just for local racing... kinda like building up the track, rather than one driver. They liked to get people to come here to see their drivers, rather than send them all out. Not exactly the norm, and a lot of drivers didn't like it because they were stuck in one place unless they found sponsorship somewhere else, but... it's a little more stable as long as you keep winning."

He stops and shrugs, trying to catch his breath from the long spiel. He eyes Charlotte, wondering at her response. "I... guess I'd like to go see what Kirk has to say is all. And..." He pauses again. "I don't know..."

Bret doesn't realize how strongly the longing shows in his eyes. "Thought maybe this could by my job 'til spring or something, if you're alright with it."


"Hey, Jess..." Axel cradles the shop phone between his chin and shoulder, hating leaving messages on answering machines. "Uh, just wanted to let you know your car will be done this afternoon. You can pick it up any time. I should be around all day, but if I'm not, just ask for Leo, and he'll settle things up for you."

He paces around the inside of the office, getting tangled in the phone cord. He always felt like an idiot, talking to a machine. He always hoped at least halfway through, someone would pick up the phone, so he could make up for mumbling incoherently. "So... yeah."

Shot

"You know you better eat that Scott."

Misty looks up from her desk at Scott. She hadnt talked much all day and she new she was being standoffish but she just didnt feel like mingaling right now. Putting that aside though Misty new she had a job to do and right now it was making sure Scott would be ok and was healthy. Not to mention he was her friend.

"You want to go home right? Well you can't unless you eat. You need to be strong and healthy. Just let your tummy rest for now and than try and eat a little more later."

Misty trys her best to give Scott a smile though much was on her mind. Carson, Kyle, Carson Kyle....she had exspected her feelings for Carson to come back but even a whilefire that is held back will soon burst through with enough deteurmination. No matter how she looked at things though Misty felt stuck. Misty just wished things were simple and easy but that was just not the real world.

Looking to Scott again Misty trys to keep her mind off things, she just wanted to think about something alse and work was not doing the trick.

"Would you like another person to play cards with so its not so one sided?"

Walking over to Scott Misty gives Domino a gentil pat on the head. The dog was his bestfriend and never left his side. Domino was a smart dgo indeed.

Exiting her apartment Jess locks the door behind her. It had been about an hour since she had been home and she really did not want to be there. So many things when through her mind and so many feelings.

As the cold air hits her face Jess zips her coat up farther before starting her way down the sidewalk. She wanted to walk, she wanted to clear her head.

After walking for a few minutes Jess finally comes to a bench that looks out over the water. She had walked farther than she planed but it felt good. Now sitting down and gazing out to the harizon where small ships bobbed up and down on the water in the dark the tiny light danced.

Watching the lights Jess gets lost in thought. She been alone so many times before in her life but now something was differnt, for some reason a new feeling made its presence. For the first time Jess actully felt lonly.

The cold wind stings her face on the areas where her tears had rolls down. Bringing a hand to her face its as if Jess herself is shocked to see the tears there. This was all new, this was all differnt, this was what real life was about. Pain, and joy, tears and smiles, love and loss...life...what was its meaning...now they Jess spend less time drunk, and more time outside bars, what was her purpis.

Kaite eyes Jason for a moment as the chatter continued. It was strange the whole thing with Axel but who was she to question it.

Maybe he has had a bad past that he just wants to forget!

Katie takes a bit of her cookie and gives a smile and wink at Jason. Now that the air was cleared Katie felt better and her smile was true. How could she be mad at her best friend someone she so cared about.

As the music started up again Katie's eyes romed everyone. Resting on Kyle for a moment as she watched him. Something was up the emotions behind his eyes told all. What it was exacly she wasnt sure but a strange feeling came over her that maybe her friend would nee a shoulder soon.

Continuing her path over the people last but not least Katie's eyes fall on Jason as she gets lost in the music and almost hypnatised watching him strum the strings as the soft music came forth. Oh how she could be lost in these moments forever without a care in the world...when the music and Jason just took her to another place, as the soft feelings emerged from him while he played the music. Oh how Katie lived for the moments like these.

Farther way down south shots ring out as the people from a club scatter. Some lost in the confustion, whole others try to keep there heads on strate...Others panic if caught they surly would be going behind bars.

Trying to make his way to his car a tall dirty blonde runs looking behind him a few times as the words from his lips could out in a differnt language.

"Hayden, Hayden...you behind me man we have to get out of here."

The slightly shorter blonde tails close behind trying to keep up.

"Trey keep going I am right behind you, just dont stop and dont look back. We are almost to the car."

Continuing to run Trey and Hayden's feet pound on the ground as they hearts race in step. Finally making it to the car Trey jumps in the front seat while Hayden gets into the passanger side.

Looking behind them finally Hayden turns whole Trey burns rubber. Seeing no one Hayden sits back front in the seat before looking at Trey.

"Man they were shooting at you."

"Are you sure it was me and not someone alse? I though I saw someone go down."

"There was someone alse who was shot Trey but thats only because I pushed you out of the way. Your parents are only one of the biggest drug lords in Mexico you know. Get to them, they go through you."

Trey turns his head to look at Hayden for a minute before turning his eyes back to the road.

"Thanks Man I would of been a gonner if you hadnt. How long have you known about my parents?"

"Your my best friend Trey, I did what you would of done for me. As for you mom and dad, I am almost like your brother I am always there and your family is always doing business with mine. Not to mention I always wondered where you got the drugs from and your loaded with cash like me. I just put all the peaces together and came up with the picture."

Hayden lifts his hand in the shape of a fist as Trey hits it back the same way. This was there own symbol of friendship something they always did to reminded them without saying it they had eachother backs. Letting out a sigh Hayden finally speaks again.

"So now what? Someone tryed to kill you. What are you gonna do?"

"Tell my parents I guess that would be what was best. I can already hear them now.."

Trey shakes his head and cant help but laugh as he pulls out a pack of smokes and hands one to Hayden.

Pasts and acceptance

Carson looks at Jess, and a small grin quirks the corner of his mouth. He knew she was trying hard, and in this moment, he could relate. Both of them were having a hard time figuring out how to act, and both of them knew the other was feeling the same.

"Yeah. I can to the extra whipped cream." Giving a little nod, he clears off the table and heads to the kitchen.

Once alone, he sighs deeply, moving about to make the milkshake. Was this right? Yes, he knew it was. He cared a lot for Jess... and as much as he wanted to feel more for her, it just wasn't going to happen. The only thing he could hope for was a good friendship... He didn't want losing that to be a result of tonight. He knew it was a possibility, but he did still want to see her if she wanted to, too.

The rest of the evening goes by a bit awkwardly, but they make it through. Carson does his best to not make a huge deal out of anything, and when it's finally time for Jess to leave, he offers a hug and a kiss to the top of her head, promising he'd see her soon.

Locking up for the night, Carson trudges back to his little room. The smile had faded. For once again... he felt alone. Though it was best, his loneliness knew no cure. But perhaps this was his fate. Perhaps it was a simple case of poetic justice for his past misdeeds.

Grabbing his jacket, he decides to get some fresh air. In the back of his mind, he knows what he really wants... he knows the close call he'd had earlier that day... which route would he take tonight?

Outside into the crisp evening air, he heads down the sidewalk, with no real destination, but the inner battle was raging inside of him. Since he'd come here, this was fiercest the temptation had been, and it was driving him up a wall. He just wanted to sit... relax... find a different atmosphere. He just wanted...

"You're out late tonight."

Carson spins around, his hands up, ready to defend himself. Caught completely off guard by the other person who had come up a side street, he blinks and squints for a moment ."Axel? What on earth are you doing here?"

"Taking a walk, what else? What about you?"

Carson shrugs lamely. "Just thinking."

Axel cocks his head, studying his friend's eyes. "How'd she take it?"

"Oh... could have been better... could have been worse." Carson shakes his head, not really wanting to talk about it. Instead, he looks at Axel with curiosity. It was strange he was out at this time too. He did appear to have some odd habits. "So you walk for fun or what? There's a lot of other stuff to keep a guy occupied around here."

Axel almost grins. "Nah. A walk alone is better."

"Then I won't keep you."

Axel stops Carson from walking away. "Carson... where you headed?"

Carson turns back around, guilt showing in his eyes.

Axel doesn't have to ask again. "You know... I heard that all-night cafe at the other end of town has good coffee."

Carson quirks an eyebrow. "Across town? You kidding me?"

"Nope." Axel gives his arm a light whack. "Come on. Race you."

Carson's eyes widen slightly as Axel takes off in a sprint. Competition was one thing he couldn't turn down, especially when it came to running. "Hey!" Taking off, he runs to catch up, and soon both are jogging down the dark sidewalk, energy being spent on the exercise rather than talking or making regrettable decisions.


Jason find himself able to give Katie a small smile, leaning his head into her hand for a moment.

I'm glad we found each other. I don't know how we did... and I know I'm a jerk sometimes... but you being here sure has made things bearable.

Giving a little sigh, he finally lets go of Katie, switching gears. "Brown said it would be a closed session with the judge, so we can't be there anyway. They have the evidence they need, and... he'll let us know what happens."

His phone rings again and he rolls his eyes.

I tell you... people's timing is perfect tonight.

Flipping open his phone, he sees that it's Mike, so he answers. "Yeah?" He glances at his watch. "I thought it was at eight. Oh... oops. Yeah, I'll be right over. Thanks."

Jason grimaces as he puts his phone away. "Okay, so, I didn't check all my messages, and now I'm a half hour late for practice." He throws Katie a sheepish grin. "We better go or else we'll have to pay for it."

Though he really wasn't in the mood to be with the band tonight, he knew they needed the practice, and maybe it would be a good distraction. He doesn't have to ask if Katie will come...he knew she would...


"...Suspended?!" Phil lets out a low whistle. "You trouble makers, you."

Jason smirks as he sits on the stool with his guitar. Mike's basement was full with JetStream, including Jen and Katie, then Rocky was there on top of it, just to hang out. "Yeah, well, it's a vacation, right?"

Kyle rolls his eyes. "What happened?"

Jason shakes his head. "Long story. It's complicated."

"Yeah, I know, you're sworn to secrecy, right?"

"Actually no, but I don't want to bore you with details."

"Oh, I wouldn't be bored." Kyle leans forward over his keyboard, looking at Katie and Jason expectantly. "I love a good juicy story about you two getting into trouble."

Mike fakes throwing a drumstick at Kyle. "Would you shut up and play?"

Kyle grins and turns his attention back to the song they'd royally messed up on just minutes prior. "Yeah, sure, if Jase would get his act together."

"Me?!" Jason's eyes widen. "It was you that missed a whole measure!"

"You were on the wrong key halfway through!"

"Phil started it!"

Mike starts to laugh and shakes his head, looking at Katie. "See what I deal with?"

Jen's voice loudly interrupts. "No homemade cookies for anyone who bickers!"

Suddenly the banter ceases and Kyle gives his sister the most innocent, angelic look. "Us? Bicker? Never!" He starts playing a few chords, though the silly grin remains on his face.

Half an hour later, they're breaking again, enjoying a batch of Jen's cookies. "So what do you got planned this weekend?" Mike asks no one in particular. Not receiving much of a response, he looks to Kyle. "You got that visit to the caves with Misty, right?"

Kyle seems lost for a moment, then blinks and nods. "Um, yeah, yeah. Monday, actually."

Rocky grins. "Oooh, you two got a date to the caves. You know if you don't come back they send search parties. So I wouldn't spend too much time smooching in there."

Jen's eyes widen. "Rocky!"

He laughs. "What?"

Kyle gives a half-hearted laugh. "Yeah, yeah."

Phil quirks an eyebrow at his brother. "I thought you wanted to go."

"Oh, I do. I mean, yes. What's not to like?"

"I don't know. You just seemed like you didn't want to go there for a minute."

Kyle's eyes focus on his keyboard and he rearranges some music. "No... It's great. Should be fun."

The quietness is confusing to anyone who knew Kyle, and Phil exchanges a look with Jen, then Mike, then Katie. "Maybe he's planning to propose," he whispers hoarsly, intending it to bring humor back.

It backfires though as Kyle shoots him a glare. "Phil, cut it out," he growls.

"Sorry, I just..."

"Well stop!" Kyle moves around from his keyboard, heading in the direction of the bathroom. "I got trouble with my contact. I'll be right back."

Jason looks at Phil and Mike for a moment, then polishes off his cookie.

Wonder what's eating him.

Mike clears his throat and finally glances to Rocky in an attempt to change the subject. "So... Cryptic got big plans yet?"

"Naw, not really. Just hanging out at the moment."

"I've wanted to get to know Axel a little better, but he seems pretty quiet. Is he a good addition to the band?"

"Oh, definitely." Rocky nods. "He's got a brain like no other. Kinda odd sometimes, but he can fix anything, and he reads people so well sometimes it's scary. He is kinda quiet though - you're right about that."

"You said he'd been with you about what... a year now?"

"That sounds about right. Picked him up in Wisconsin."

Phils curiosity rose. He knew all the other members of Cryptic so well, it was strange not to know one of them. "What's his background?"

Rocky furrow his brow. "Not sure. He was in a church up there when we found him... he helped us out when our other sound guy left us hanging, then we found out he had an ear for music, so we invited him to hop on board." He shrugs. "He doesn't talk about his past though."

"Family?"

"Don't know. He never talks about any."

"You don't know him very well for having been with him almost 24/7 for a year," Phil muses, almost teasing his friend.

Rocky grins. "Axel's a good guy. He's added a lot to our band. That's all we need to know I guess."

Jen finds this most interesting, and inserts herself in the covnersation. "Women are more curious than men," she admits, "but that does seem a little strange, you traveling with him, but not knowing that much about him."

Rocky shrugs. "Logan liked him... I liked him... we needed sound guy. He turned out to be more than that, and we get along so... we're fine. We asked him once about his past and he said it was a long time ago and the door was closed. So we let it drop. Respected his privacy. We're friends now though. I mean... we could be closer, and you'd think we would be, but... it's all good."

"Does he ever have any friends or anything show up at shows?"

"Never." Rocky lifts his eyebrows. "Come to think of it. I don't think he's got a huge circle of friends though. We did have this one incident at a concert though about seven or eight months ago... We were in Tennessee I think. Some dude came up right in the middle of the concert and started hollering at Axel, actually came up and started swinging his fists around, yelling something about deserving worse and calling him names. I think the guy was drunk, and security took him out pretty quick. We all just let it slide, but it really bothered Axel. He wouldn't say why though. Otherwise, we've never crossed paths with anyone who knows him, except for in Wisconsin."

Jason just listens. For some reason, suspicion rose.
Interesting. I thought there was something strange about him when we first met... I wonder if it would be worth looking into.

Jen almost looks sorry. "I'm in his Bible study group, but even there, it's been hard to get to know him. He seems nice though."

"Oh, very," Rocky agrees. "I tell ya, he's got a firm foundation in God, that's for sure. We all kinda wondered about his past, but then decided that acting like Jesus was the best option. It doesn't matter where we've been, ya know? I mean, I wouldn't want someone digging around my own past. I want people to see me who I am today. So really... that's what we did with Axel. And come to think of it... he does the same thing with us. He's never asked about our pasts. Though quite honestly, I think he's got us all pegged." He chuckles. "Sometims I wonder if he's psychic."

"Well I'm no psychic, but I know we're going to be here all night if we don't get through these songs." Kyle rejoins the group, sliding in behind his keyboard again.

Jason grins and picks up his guitar again, looking to Katie. "Guess we better get to rockin'."


Scott picks at his supper. Janet had been so nice to fix extra beef and mashed potatoes that Rick had brought over... and it tasted good... he just didn't feel like eating it.

Rick folds his arms with disapproval after he's wrapped up for the night. "No food, no home," he warns.

"I just don't feel like eating," Scott mumbles.

"Look... you need to," Rick directs. "We made a deal, remember? Eat at least half of what's there." He felt like he was talking to a child, but if that's what it took...

Scott manages to take another bite of potatoes. "Happy?"

"No. But I have to go now. I expect to find out you ate more. Got it?"

Scott shrugs.

Rick sighs and gives Scott's shoulder a pat. "Get some rest, Scott. Tomorrow is a new day." He waves in Misty's direction. "See you in the morning," he calls.

Scott continues to sit cross-legged on is bed, picking through his food after Rick has left. He takes another small bite, then sets his fork down and pushes his plate away. He knew they had a deal, and he wanted to go home tomorrow, but after a few bites, his stomach simply didn't want anything more.

Out of the corner of his eye, he sees Misty. She'd been quiet most of the day though... and he was banking on her not giving him a bad time about eating. Looked like the evening would be another one of solitaire and boredom. He reaches for his deck of cards. Oh how he just wanted to leave.

Extra whip cream

"I guess thats one thing about getting older huh? At one point in time all we wanted was for things to change and now, now it never stops."

As Jason takes Katie's hand she can start to feel the emotions coming a little stronger now but not enough to cause a great deal of pain. Closing her eyes Katie takes in the feelings and emotions processing them, and letting herself get strength from them.

Though one would think someone would get tired of doing this all the time Katie never did. It never bothered her and she liked the closeness it gave her to Jason. Even if she didnt need it to live she would welcome it with open arms.

As Jason's phone rings it causes Katie to jump snapping her eyes open. The moment had been broken. Watching Jason as he talked on the phone Katie wanted. Once he is off she looks to Jason with question about what was to happen next.

"Do we need to be there? or will Brown call us."

As Jason comes close for a kiss Katie's heart starts to race once again like it did so many times before. Each kiss with Jason was special, each kiss felt like it was the first all over again. Being close to Jason she felt safe, being this close she almost felt untouchable.

As Jason backs away Katie can spot the reminent of where the tear had fallen. Bringing a hand up to his cheek Katie smiles and runs her thumb over the spot.

As long as we have each other we will be ok. We are in this together Jason. Giving up on you is not even an option in my mind.

Giving a small nod to Carson Jess keeps her smile even though on the inside it felt like a rain storm. It wasnt hard to tell Carson was already having a hard time with her. Showing her own emotion wouldnt help him much and Jess didnt want to put him through even more.

Looking down at the table as Carson asks his final question Jess is silent for a moment. All the other guys she had dated she was never friends with after the break up. Peter, she just forgot about him till he came around again she never really felt close to him anyways. So how was she to act now? Any differnt other than not kissing and holding hands? What would she say? Would they still have dinner sometimes? Would he still come over? Things would change but how much would really change!

Looking up Jess catches Carson eye for a moment. They were going to be friends, she had to try. Carson had been to good to her, he's showed her what it was to really be treated good and she had, had deeper feelings for him. She had to try and maybe the milkshake was the first step.

"I'd like that but can I have extra whip cream on mine today?"

Jess smiles again as she looks up at Carson. This was gonna be differnt but it was worth the try.

Medicine

Hearing a car, Jason knows without looking that it is Katie. The more days that went by, the more in tune he became, and the more sensitive he was to her presence and feelings. What at one point bothered him so much, now came as a strange form of comfort that he wouldn't easily admit. For without Katie, not only did he suffer, but it was as if a piece of himself was gone.

Looking out at the lake, he just lets Katie come, and remains quiet. He understood the silent words, and listened to what she had to say. He had been too harsh. He never should have thought Katie would leave him high and dry, and he understood good and well what she was saying now.

A bit of guilt creeps up on him and he lets it out, not minding if Katie knew how he felt. He'd been so upset... he still was... but he shouldn't have taken it out on her like he had. She hadn't meant her words like he'd taken them, and it had been stupid of him to stay mad like he had.

A slight grin surfaces at Katie's ending statement.

I don't mind your babble. I rather like it.

Finally turning his head, he looks down at her, studying her eyes and the soft glow of her face.

When will I learn that you're the medicine I need, not the cause of my ailment?

He sighs deeply. Actual words just didn't want to come. He was almost better now at their own language than spoken English

I'm sorry too. I was being a jerk, and on top of it, I know I probably put you through heck last night.

Sliding off the tailgate to stand next to Katie, he remains close, but keeps his focus back out on the water, his hands in his own pockets for several quiet minutes. Yes... memories were here. A few private emotions he keeps to himself, recalling his and Katie's time here and the first real kiss they had shared. In a world of black, that had been his light before everything had fallen apart. And now everything had turned upside down and again so many times, it felt like those memories were a lifetime ago. Yet they were so fresh and vivid, that Katie was right - it felt like it was just yesterday.

"Everything is changing," he comments softly. "The big picture... our own little world... us. It's all changing."

He thinks of Austin. He thinks of TJY. He thinks of his mom. He thinks of the past. He thinks of prison. He thinks of the here and now. He thinks of his friends. Nothing was the same. Nothing would ever stay the same.

Without turning, Jason slides his hand out of his pocket and reaches over to find Katie's hand in her own. Drawing it out, he locks his fingers with hers, starting to let the emotions flow again. He lets them come slowly so the pain would not be so great, and like a poison being released, he can feel the tension begin to lessen as it serves to energize its destination. Remnants of anger... bits and pieces of confusion... and a hurt that went so deeply, it could never be fully removed.

He had trusted a man all his life, and was now feeling the sting of betrayal. He felt used... a fool.. and on some level, just a little bit worthless. He was angry at the circumstances. He was so hurt by his own grandfather. He was confused at what had happened, and what was to come.

A sudden shrill ring shatters the exchange of feelings, and Jason jerks to attention, his hand going for the phone on his belt. Today was not a day to miss calls, no matter what he was doing.

"Yeah, hello?" His eyebrows raise. "Yes? And? ...alright. No, nothing new. ...When? ...Okay. Yeah. ...Thanks."

Flipping the phone shut and clipping it back on his belt, Jason heaves another sigh. "That was Brown. A judge will be seeing Austin in a couple days about the incident with Scott. Decisions will be made then."

Finally turning to actually face Katie, he reaches out to run a finger down the side of her face, tucking a lock of wind-blown hair behind her ear. Though their moment had been broken, it didn't seem to matter much. A million and one thoughts raced through Jason's mind, and he didn't try to organize them, knowing now that Katie would sense and recognize them. Brown. Austin. Scott. Band practice tonight. Katie might want to call Wendy. His mom. Carson. Scott again.

Still looking into her eyes, Jason finally wraps his arms around her and pulls her close in a warm hold.

I don't know what I would do without you, Hero. Even if I could live without you... I don't think I would want to.

Withdrawing just a little, he has to bend and turn his head to reach closer, his lips gently finding hers.

He hurt so much right now, that all he longed for was the comfort she offered. He knew this was his most vulnerable position. When this close... touching... giving of himself... His emotions were no longer a choice - they would be revealed no matter what. And for a moment, he feels like a little boy again that just wants to find a corner and curl up to cry.

He leans into Katie more firmly, trying to feel her own comfort, while his hurt continued to be released. His arms locked around her, a tear finally surfaces to mingle in their kiss. Couldn't he just stay here and never let this moment end? Couldn't the world stop right now and leave them in peace?

Eventually, Jason gently retreats, though still holds Katie in a hug.

Thank you for not giving up on me.


Seeing the look in Jess' eye, Carson's heart feels as though it had just been stabbed. In the past, he'd treated relationship so flippantly... The emotions he felt now were new and confusing. He didn't know what to do with them. He didn't want Jess to be hurt, but he knew she was. He wanted to fix it, but he knew he couldn't. He wished he could have stopped her from having feelings for him, but no one could have predicted it. And now... now it was just a mess of hurt, and all because of him. He'd messed thing up...again.

Hearing Jess' words about Misty, something flashes in Carson's eyes. He drops his gaze and slowly withdraws his hand from hers to play with his glass again. He wasn't breaking things off with Jess because he was planning on going after Misty. On the contrary...it was better if he just didn't try anything again. With as many times as he'd messed up in the past... maybe it was high time he just did it alone without the chance of ruining even more.

"Some opportunities join the grains of sand as they're blown across the ocean," he comments quietly. He wanted to tell Jess that this had absolutely nothing to do with Misty, but even though he wasn't planning to go back to her right now, that just wasn't the truth. It was becaues of Misty. It was because Carson knew what it truly felt like to have feelings for someone... deep feelings... and they just weren't there with Jess.

Finally looking back up, he takes a deep breath, bravely looking at her eyes again. "Thank you, Jess... I know that.." He wanted to say that he knew she was hurt, but what good would that do? She was trying not to let it show, and maybe it was best if he simply respected that. This was something he couldn't fix.

"Can I make you a strawberry milkshake for desert before you leave?"


As Wendy accepts, a wave of emotions hits Clint. He was so happy that she said yes, and so very scared at the same time. As she reaches out to hug him, he stands, pulling her up with him, and holding her tightly, his face buried against her hair. Her words sting. He knew he'd hurt her by leaving.

"I missed you too," he replies quietly.

Drawing away, he takes a moment to look her in the eye. Seeing a tear on her cheek, he once again feels the guilt for everything that had happened. But a smile is forced to the surface anyway, and he reaches out with his thumb to wipe the tear away.

Looking down, he takes her hand in one, and with the other, he removes the ring from the box, slowly sliding it onto Wendy's finger. Gazing back into her eyes, he leans down to place a tender kiss on her lips.

Withdrawing to see her eyes again, his voice is still hushed. "I love you, Wendy." And behind the words is a reassuring tone... one that says, we'll be okay. One that says, I'm scared too, but we'll make it.

All of a sudden, a whoop shatters the silence, and reality is back. Clint jumps and looks to Jeff who is now standing, with his arms in the air. Jeff's enthusiasm is immediately contagious as a round of applause breaks out, along with a shrill whistle from Mick.

Clint's face reddens, but he can't help but laugh, keeping an arm slung around Wendy's shoulders. His eyes roam the room and land on his father.

Jim meets his gaze, and offers an approving nod.

And that's all Clint needs, to know that he had done the right thing.

If you love her

Pulling into darkend parkway Katie can make out Jason's truck. Pulling next to it she sits in her car for a moment. She had hardly talked to Jason all day and it was such a strange feeling. Finally opening the door Katie gets out and puts her hands in her pocket before walking to the back of Jason's pick up where he sat. Leaning aganst the tailgate Katie herself looks to the water.

So many memories in one place you know. It's strange how time goes by so fast and we still think something happend yesterday.

Leting out a small sigh Katie can see her breath in the air. It was chilli, and knowing there was a rift between Jason and herself seemed to make it colder. The memories of time fill her mind as her heart acks just a little.

Listen J...I'm sorry.

Turning Katie looks at Jason her arms still in her pockets as she scruntches together just a little trying to stay warm. Her eyes lock with Jason's for a moment...the emotions pooling behind her eyes as they glisened in the moonlight.

"I was upset yesterday J. I guess I said alot of things that maybe I shouldnt have. I didnt mean I wasnted to abanded our mission, or leave you I was just trying to state that I dont think Austin should be running the show. He is changing everything, he's going aganst everything we have worked for, its just he's make it seem like the meaning is being lost."

*Katie lets out a sigh and her mind still turns almost a million miles a minute. Not only did she miss him but her mind missed him as well. She missed shairing things with her and she missed the communication. Now it was almost like she was catching up her mouth matching her brain speed not letting Jason get a word in.*

"All in all Jason I dont think I would leave. Let alone leave you. You mean alot to me you know that, I'd never leave you. Oh J, am I even making sence here? I am trying to relay how I feel and to me it feels like its coming out as babble."

The night goes on and dinner is good, enjoying her time with Carson just came to Jess now even if she wasnt trying. Just being around him felt good. Tonight something seemed differnt though Jess tryed to push it aside and finaly it was gone.

As dinner draws to the end Jess can feel the tention in the air once more as the tone become more searouse. Watching Carson as he speeks Jess almost holds her breath feeling what was to come but hopeing maybe if she held her breath it wouldnt.

As Carson lays his hand on Jess and she hears his words finally she lets her breath out. The inevable not being able to be stoped. The worst coming true, and though Jess new Carson was doing it because he didnt want to hurt Jess ferther it still hurt. She new this might happend and this was a risk. Jess hadnt planed on falling for Carson but she had and now she was feeling the sting.

Finally letting out a sigh Jess look up from Carson's hand and though a smile was on her face the emotions were also in her eyes. She tryed to make them look happy, and show she was ok, but if one looked close enough you could see she was hurt, and she was sad.

"Friendship...I think I can handle that. If your hearts not there its just not there right."

Jess thinks for a moment as she trys to keep her emotions from showing. Maybe she shouldnt say what she wanted to...but maybe she should. Would it make her feel better or worse? Somehow she wasnt sure Jess new, though it hurt to addmit she new where Carson's heart belonged. No matter how much she had tryed to capture it, his heart belonged to one woman and one woman alone had the power of his heart. The power to shape him into what he was today. Yes it was her who in turn stole Carson's heart and helped him become a better man.

"If you still love her Carson, don't let her get away. I've seen her and she is a good woman. I also saw you along time ago when you were with her. You were happy even if you made some bad choses. Dont let the opertunity pass you by eh? Even if you have to work at it a little bit its worth it."

Jess gives a smile the words she said hurt, but she new they were true and all she wanted for Carson was him to be happy. If that ment without her than so be it. But that was the power of friendship and the true caring for someone just seeing them happy made it ok even if it did hurt.

Rosetta can't help but smile back at Mick. It was good to see him, see her family sitting at the table. She was so happy in what she had, though her eyes drifted across the table and they land on Wendy for a moment as a suddon bit of sadness over took her. She could only hope things would work out for the two that were still so young. She couldnt even imagen how Wendy must be feeling and even though he was not here Clint must be pretty confused himself. Rosetta prayed that God would help them both find there way.

Wendy trys to smile as Rosalyn and Jeff go back and forth. She wanted to keep her spirits up and her head high but it just felt so hard. In a room filled with people and Wendy never felt so alone.

Lifting her head as she hears the door open Wendy can't help that her eyes go wide for just a moment. Not saying anything Wendy's eyes just lock with Clint's as they follow him while he walks till finally he was next to her. Watching him intently as her goes to one knee Wendy's heart races even faster, our of being nervouse herself and out of a small fear that creeped up inside of her. Seeing the emotions behind Clint's own eyes Wendy trying to show reasurance through hers.

As Clint's words float to Wendy's hears she can't help the small smile spread acorss her face. Half showed her own fear, and half showed happyness.

"Yes Clint, I will."

Wendy was excited for this but this was not the was she had exspected, this was not how she had dreamed it. She loved Clint that much was true. She had no doubt in her mind that even if this hadnt happend they would of gotten married sooner or later but Now was not the time she had wanted it...and so the first step in reality made itself known as things happend now because they had too.

Slowly sitting up a little Wendy puts her arms around Clint in a hug as a small tear rolled down her cheek one she did not want him to see though the hug had meaning she had missed him and she had worryed about him.

"I'm glad your back. I missed you."