The story

Rick minds his own business as Hope appears with the child, but he can't help but see the interaction and feel the desire to help in the atmosphere.

Taken to her office, he takes a moment to look around, finding the surroundings very appealing. Unsure where to even start about Scott, he finds a chair to sit down and takes a deep breath. "Well... his name is Scott Johnson. He's twenty-six, I believe, and I think I mentioned on the phone that we're part of the Elite."

Rick pauses, trying to figure out what information was necessary and what was not. "I might as well start from the beginning. Forgive me if it's more than you need to know."

Settling back, he finds Hope's eyes. He could tell she had a very calm yet strong sense about her. But would she be willing to take on Scott?

"Scott was our tech guy for many years. Computers were his thing, not field missions, so he hadn't been trained for that kind of work. A while back though, his expertise was needed on a case, so he went out with a team. There was an explosion at the site, and while the rest of the team survived at at distance, Scott was presumed dead."

Rick swallows hard, remembering that day. It hadn't been easy for anybody. "Later we had reason to believe that we had been mistaken and a small investigation was started. It was about two months after that original mission that we learned Scott had been taken captive by an illegal organization that law enforcement has been battling for many many years. To make a long story short, Scott was rescued and brought back home. This was just recently. I, along with my assistant, was able to nurse him back to some health, but it started being evident pretty quickly that his experience had left him wounded more deeply on the inside than out."

Rick shakes his head, letting his eyes roam the room for a moment before coming back to Hope. "Scott was tortured, Miss Garrison. I don't know everything because he hasn't talked about it. The most I know is that he endured a lot of pain, mental anguish, lack of physical care, and was basically left to die. If our agents hadn't gotten to him that day, I have no doubt that they would have found a dead body instead. He told me a few things that went on, but nothing for me really to know what he's been through. Only one other man might know that, and he wasn't involved with this particular case."

Pausing again, he tries to collect his thoughts so he didn't ramble or get off track. "Coming back, not only is he battling with what happened to him, but he may not have a job anymore, he's lost the sight in one eye, his house is but an empty shell, and to top it all off, someone he trusted interrogated him right after he got back, seeming to set him back further. He's skin and bones, but wont eat enough to get is strength back. He has nightmares, but won't talk about them, and he's scared to death of his own shadow. From what I can tell, he feels like he's a weak failure, and feels completely worthless."

Emotions rise in Rick's eyes for his friend. "He needs help fast, or I'm afraid we're going to lose him."

He looks down for a moment, getting past his emotions before looking back up again. "But there's a catch. The enemy who took him is called the Agency and they've been known to go after those who interact with our agents. So there is risk involved here that I'm not sure you'd want to take."

He shrugs lamely. "And... that's the story."


Laura looks up quickly from her desk, just a little startled by Nate. A smile spreads on her lips at the suggestion of dinner. “You know I can’t say no,” she calls after him.

Laughing, she shakes her head and tries to concentrate on her work.


Reese is waiting by the door as Nate meets up with him again, and they head outside. He opts to drive one vehicle, taking his own, and aiming downtown. It’s not long before they’re parking in front of the police station, then on their way inside. Thankfully, Brown was available, having just returned from a meeting.

He greets both Reese and Nate with handshakes, not appearing to be too surprised they were there. Once settled in his office, Brown looks at them from across his desk. “Well, what can I do for you?”

“Not sure,” Reese admits. “Guess I… or we, are looking for a few answers at the moment.”

“Alright.”

“I just got fired this morning.”

Brown’s eyes widen. “What?”

“Yes. Austin was gone for a while, came back, stormed through my office and fired me, accusing me of undermining and something else about an investigation. Now… obviously that’s not illegal, but my son informed me he thought a couple other agents might have known what was going on, and your name was brought up as well. So… here we are. We’d like to know what’s going on.”

Brown shakes his head slowly. "I'm sorry. Austin's riding a fine line. I didn't figure he'd pull anything so soon."

"What are you talking about?"

"Austin was formally reprimanded today by Judge Reinholt."

Reese's eyes widen and he glances to Nate, then back to Brown. "I don't understand."

The corners of Brown's mouth twitch and he leans forward to rest his elbows on his desk. "It seems two of your agents had a complaint about the way Austin handled one of their fellow men. They brought it to my attention, there was proof of inappropriate behavior, and it went almost as far as a court hearing, but the judge decided that wasn't necessary at this time."

Reese starts to put the pieces together. "Jason and Katie... about Scott?"

Brown nods. "They brought me footage from a surveillance camera. It showed Austin getting too rough with Scott during an interrogation. His actions were uncalled for, Jason and Katie both wanted to press the issue, so I took it from there. This morning, Reinholt reprimanded Austin and warned him to stay clean unless he wanted to be demoted, or worse, thrown off the Elite. I was just getting ready to call Jason about it."

"I see." Reese thinks for several moments. "Why wasn't I informed?"

"Jason and Katie didn't want anybody else dragged down if they got into trouble. Unfortunately, it looks like you're getting the blame instead of them."

Reese sighs. "Maybe it's better this way. I'd rather give up my job so they could stay on the force anyway."

Brown eyes Nate for a moment, seeing the loyalty in his expression. "Yes, but..." He looks back to Reese. "...what good are a bunch of disgruntled agents who don't want to follow their leader? You're the one they trust - not Austin."

"But what can I do? I just got fired."

"You have a couple options. One, you can go confront Austin and explain you had nothing to do with this. Of course, then he might just turn around and fire Jason and Katie instead. Two, you can file a formal complaint that you were fired on illegitimate grounds because you did nothing wrong. Austin can't fire you without real cause."

Reese sighs deeply and leans back in his chair, trying to think. "What do you do when a leader is corrupt?"

Brown chuckles. "Hire a hit man?" He shakes his head, realizing it was an inappropriate statement. "We have corrupt leaders all over the place. Half our judges will take bribes, but without proof, there's nothing we can do. And even if we did have proof, if there aren't enough people to make a stand, they stay in office."

"That's exactly why TJY was formed in the first place." Reese responds with a quiet passion. "To fight against the corruptness of law enforcement itself. To help the people who were getting ignored or lost in the system, or who were being wrongly accused. And now... now we have become part of that system, bound to it in ways that we no longer can execute our mission. We may have performed illegal activities prior to our exposure, but it was never for selfish reasons, and never with ill-intent. At least we had free-will... at least we could perform our missions without answering to the corrupt nature of those above us."

Brown lets silence linger for several moments, Reese's strong statement hanging in the air. "Do you know the regulations that were written up for the Elite when I headed up its formation?"

Reese shakes his head. "Bits and pieces. But not enough to quote it. Why?"

Brown leans down and pulls out a stack of bound papers, letting them flop down on his desk. "Right here is the bottom line for the Elite. The boundaries were formed by myself and Judge Reinholt himself."

"I know some of it through you, because we had to set everything up according to a legal system and with hierarchy.'

Brown nods. "See, with your case, it was so unique, that the rules in establishment weren't followed anyway. The Elite is different, and deserves to be. You're the best of the best, able to infiltrate, investigate and execute missions unlike any other law enforcement. The problem started when the rules written to protect this branch were used against it instead. Take the officer rankings for example." He taps the papers. "In here, it suggests a method for hierarchy in order to maintain balance within the staff. However... it doesn't require it."

Reese lifts an eyebrow, starting to understand. "Okay... but still... the man in charge is still the man in charge. The judge is over Austin, but otherwise, the rest of us are just sitting ducks."

"How was Austin appointed?"

"I don't know... I guess Carter just handed everything over to him."

"Carter was established as the reigning authority over the Elite, simply because he had been the head of TJY already. However... according to this... a new chief can only be established by popular vote of the staff. This is a rule exclusively for the Elite."

"So... you're saying that the rules Austin is enforcing may merely be suggestions, while at the same time, other rules are being blatantly disregarded."

"Yes." Brown folds his hands. "Gentlemen, here's the thing." He looks to both Reese and Nate. "In here, it is stated that if the Elite as a whole is in agreement with any proceedings, whether they go against this regulation book or not, they are allowed. Except for illegal activity, of course. So... in other words, if the staff was in agreement that Austin wanted to fire you or Scott, then it would stand. However, when there are those who stand up and say 'hey, wait a minute,' regulations are consulted, and at most, a judge, as was the case earlier today."

He pauses, letting the information sink in. "Same thing about leadership. No one formerly complained about Austin taking over. Same thing about official rankings. Now... if taken before a judge, they may rule in his favor, and then the law stands and must be obeyed. But until that point, the Elite has more freedom than any other law enforcement branch. I made sure it was set up that way because a team like you needs freedom."

Brown shrugs. "If the staff consulted Austin himself about the rankings, and he decided to change the method, then that's fine too. It's all a matter of which battles are worth fighting, and which ones are not. Austin may think he has power over the Elite, when in reality... he's simply a team captain."

Reese cocks his head. "Then who's the coach?"

"Me. But even the coach can be fired. The team still has an owner, and that's the law itself, driven by the judges."

Reese takes a deep breath and lets it out slowly. "So... what can we do?"

"Well... what do you want to do? How far do you want to go? Will the Elite suffer if this is fought too hard? Will more people suffer through this than necessary?" Brown looks to Reese, then Nate. "How far are you willing to go, gentlemen?"


Axel can hear someone coming up behind him, and knows from the light steps that it must be Jess. Seeing her out of the corner of his eye a faint grin surfaces.

He reaches into the engine to fiddle with a couple things, letting Jess’ words just hang for several moments. Most would find the silence awkward – he used it.

Seeing her look into the engine with him, he shakes his head, skipping a greeting. “I must have missed something the other day, but I don’t know what it could be. Leo’s got the other car at the moment, so I’ve got time to look at yours.”

Stepping back, he shuts the hood. “Can’t tell you if it’ll be all day or not until I look a little deeper, so if you want, you can hang around here for a bit. I’ll drive your car inside and have a look.”

Axel gestures to the office and waiting area again. “There’s a couple chairs in there and some magazines. I’ll let you know when I find something.”

Once Jess’ car is in the garage, Axel sets to work, looking for the problem.

“So what did you not do the last time?” Leo hollers to him.

Axel comes up out of the engine too quickly, bumping his head on the open hood. “Well give me a few minutes to figure it out, will ya?”

Leo glances at his watch. “I bet you can’t find it inside half an hour.”

“Fifteen minutes.”

“Lunch?”

“Can of pop.”

Leo grins. “You’re on.” He glances to the notches on the far wall. Only the mechanics knew that they signified bets won between Leo and Axel. At the moment, Axel was ahead by one. Leo nods with satisfaction. Today they would be even…

...Axel ambles over to the car Leo was working on, a part of a hose in his hand. “I think I’ll take root beer today.”

Leo rolls out from under the car, staring up at Axel. “You’ve got to be kidding.”

Axel shakes his head. “Radiator hose.”

“Dang it. It was too easy.”

Axel throws him a grin. “Sorry.”

“Radiator hose, huh? Wouldn’t you have checked that?”

“Yeah. This is the new one I put in the other day. Must have been defective.” Axel shrugs. “I’ll get a new one in there and she should be set.”

“How come you got the easy job today?”

“Because Ron is sick and left his designated jobs to you.”

“Oh.” Leo nods. “Alright, I’ll buy that.” Rolling back under the car, his voice is muffled. “There’s some quarters over by the desk.”

Axel chuckles. “Thanks.” Giving a little sigh, he makes his way over to the waiting area that adjoined the office. He was glad for quiet days. It was only him and Leo today. Sometimes they had all six men working at once with customers waiting. Days like this were appreciated.

“Hey, Jess.” He slips inside, finding her waiting. His hands were black with grease stains, a smudge on the side of his face. He twirls the piece of hose in his fingers. “Give me half an hour and you’ll be good to go.”

He moves behind the desk to scratch out some paperwork before moving back to the door. “Oh…” He turns around as an afterthought. “If you’re thirsty, help yourself to a couple quarters from the desk.” He tosses her a wink. “Compliments of Leo.”

As promised, half an hour later, Axel is washing his hands at the garage sink before going back inside again. “Well, you’re all set, Miss Fisher.”

Glancing up at the clock, he sees it was past lunchtime, but ignores the growling in his stomach. “Looks like you still got half your day off to enjoy, and now you can actually get somewhere without sending out smoke signals.”

He moves behind the desk to finish up the paperwork, speaking as his eyes remain on the paper. “Don’t worry about the cost today. Must have been a faulty hose I put on before. So…”

He flips a folder shut. “You should be ready to go.”

Catching Jess’ eye, Axel just studies her for a moment, wondering what was hidden behind the shine. Realizing he’d been in business mode, his tone softens just a little. “Unless you wanted to join me for lunch.” He turns it around, making himself the one in need. “Every once in a while a rainbow needs to be around a bit of light so it doesn’t disappear.”

"Leave it to me..."

Holding her smile the woman listens to Rick as he speaks. Waiting for him to finish before she says anything more giving a nod.

"I think Miss Garrison is in at the moment, let me see if she has a few moments to spair to talk to with you."

Turning in her chair a little the receptionest goes to a small inter comb and press the button.

"Miss Garrison?"

On the other end a soft soothing voice returns.

"Yes Ms. White?"

"There is a gentilmen out here who said he played phone tag with you this morning and was wondering if you had time to speak with him now?"

"If he can wait like 10 minutes I would be more than happy to speak with him."

The line goes dead and Ms. White turns looking at Rick again.

"If you have the time you can feel free to sit and Miss Garrison will be right with the."

No more than 10 minutes goes by when the side door opens and a small boy maybe about the age of 13 comes out his mother who was also waiting in the office stands greeting them. Following the boy was a woman that stood about 5'6 with a medum build. Her light brown hair hung in ringlits to about shoulder langth, and her dark bown eyes held a certin glow to them. As she smiled her cheek formed into balls adding to her facule features. Dressed in black dress pants and a silk black shirt the gold cross on a chain hung around her neck proving where she faith layed.

Walking over to the mother with the small boy she smile shines bright.

"He's doing very well Ms. West."

"So that means he finally spoke to you?"

Giving a small shake of her head the smile still remains.

"No, but you dont always have to use words to talk to someone."

As the mother looks down at the small boy he lifts his hands moving his fingers and forming the sign that ment "I love you." An instint smile spreads across the mothers face as she looks back up tears in her eyes.

"Thank you. Thank you so much."

Giving the mother a gentil pat on the shoulder she watches as they leave till finally she moves her attachen to Rick.

Another smile forming she walks over to him exstending her hand.

"You must be Mr. Johnston. I'm Hope Garrison. If you would like we can step into my office and speek more."

Leading the way around the reception desk to the room that layed next to it. The room was fairly worm. On the one end there was a desk that was filled with pictured, and some flowers. Papers sat in nice stacks. Chairs, and coutches where in differnt places along with many plants. Some toys even layed in the far courner for those who were far younger than most. Along with a computer and many shelfs filled with book. More painting lined the walls with the same inicals as before.

The room was not like move office would be this one had more of a feeling of home, more of a comfort to it.

"Please make you self at home. Now tell me about the young man you had mentioned on the phone."

Looking at Wyatt as he speaks Nate can't help but give a small laugh. Leave it to though to, to stir the hornests nest. He new they ment good, and was trying to help there friend but....somewhere Nate wasnt sure if this did more harm than good.

Turning his attachen back to Reese Nate stands a bit taller giving a nod.

"Yeah I'll go with you. Austin might of just fired you, but to me you will always be the boss."

Turning from the door Nate starts to head away.

"Let me grab my jacket and than we can head out."

Continuing out of the office Nate makes his way across the floor passing Laura's desk he stops and takes a few steps back looking over the wall and smiling.

"Her you pretty thing. I am gonna head out of the office for a little bit with Reese but when I get back what about me and you do dinner tonight?!"

The smile on his lips he dosnt even bother to stop as he keeps going to grab his jacket.

As Jess stand at the desk she turns just in time to see Axel leave the building and head to her car. A small smile forms on her face as she turns and heads out again herself. Standing behind Axel for just a few moments watching him Jess finally steps along side the car so she is in view shot of him making sure not to startl him to much.

"Leave it to me to have my car crap out again huh? At least this time I wasnt stuck on the side of the road huh?"

Looking into the car like she was trying to look for something herself Jess feels stupid. She was never good at small talk so she wasnt even sure why she was trying.

"If you need to keep the car all day you can. I dont have to work. Today is my day off."

Engine

Jason grins as Katie gets in his truck and gives him a kiss.

As you wish.

Turning on the engine, he pulls out of the parking lot and heads downtown. "Mom and Pop's here we come. And after that..." He shrugs. "I guess the day will make itself."


Rick looks around the reception area, enjoying the pictures, and finding that so far this place was very pleasant. It felt good here, and if any place should, it was this one. This was what he was looking for... hopefully Hope would be too. The question was, whether or not she would be willing to take on someone like Scott who had such dangerous connections.

Rick returns the woman's smile and nod. "Yes, actually. I'm, um, looking for Miss Garrison. We played phone tag earlier this morning and I wanted to either meet with her today or set up an appointment to do it another time. I may have a client for her."


Reese looks over to Nate and shakes his head. "I don't know Nate.... I don't know." He lets out a long weary sigh. "I guess I knew my time here was limited once all this started to happen. It was only a matter of time before we clashed. But still... I don't know what it was that set him off. He said something about Brown and an investigation, but I don't have a clue what that is."

"I think I know someone who would..." Wyatt comes up behind Nate. He was quiet and calm, but a strange anger burned behind his eyes. The majority of the time, his relationship with his father was kept strictly business here. But knowing that his father had just been fired... he took it personally.

Reese lifts his eyebrows. "Oh? What are you talking about?"

Wyatt hesitates, glancing up at Nate, then back at his father. "Jason and Katie were working on something. They wouldn't tell me what. But... I got the idea they were trying to get Austin in trouble."

Reese stands a moment, halfway surprised, partly amused, and partly not surprised at all. "Interesting."

"You want me to find them?"

"No." Reese shakes his head. "I have a better idea. I'm going to go see Brown. Anybody want to come along?"

Wyatt backs off. "I'm staying here to make sure nothing else happens."

Reese looks to Nate. "Care to join me? I'm sure you realize all our jobs are on the line."


"Yo, man... somebody's got trouble." Leo nods out the garage to the car that had just parked. Smoke was billowing from the engine.

Axel finishes tightening the clamp on the hoses, and turns around to look. "They sure do."

"Isn't that the car you just worked on?"

"Yeah." Confusion enters Axel's tone and he grabs a rag to wipe his hands.

Leo snickers. "Better go find out what you missed before the big boss does."

"I didn't miss anything."

"Sure you didn't. Most cars just smoke all the time."

Axel throws Leo a withering look. "Ha...ha..." He makes his way through the garage area and hears the bell ring, but instead of going into the office, he steps outside, aiming directly for Jess' car. Though normally going to customers first, he knew the car and knew the owner, not hesitating to go ahead and investigate.

Opening up the hood, more steam comes out, followed by a hissing sound. Propping the hood open, he leans in a little, scanning the engine.

Smoke

Slidding into her car Katie lets out a long sigh. When would this be over? When would life be ok and normal for them all. Now she understood that age old question her Aunt and friend use to ask, and she understood just how hard it was. When could they all live in peace. It was a question that might never be answered.

Though deep in thought Katie gives a small smile at Jason's mention of Mom and Pop's as she gets out of her car again.

Mom and Pop's sounds great.

Opening his car door she slids in leaving over to place a kiss on his cheek.

No need to take two care when ever the day it through you can just drop me off here again.

Maybe life wasnt perfect and alot of hardships came up but it was nice to get away with a friend. Just go and not look back. It was nice to have a friend like Jason, and it was nice to love someone like him as well.

A slightly older woman with bleach blonde hair looks up from the front desk as Rick enter the office. Giving a friendly smile she stratens just a little.

"Hello Sir. Can I help you with anything?"

Keeping a smile on her face the receptionist creates a comfortable atmusphere.

Though the building was larger and one could tell there was much more to it than can be seen the sence of comfort could be found here. Even to though would were not looking for it.

Pictures lined the walls giving the comfrote to thought not even looking for it. The one picture on the wall might catch some people's eye if they new or had been to the scene before. It was a tiny Ranch with many buildings layed out in a very complex way. A forest sarounded and feals lead the way where horses stood. In small letter at the bottom initals were painted in W.L.

Nate steps up behind Susanne and just looks over her shoulder and into Reese office. Almost dumbfounded by what had happend. What was going on, what was happening to this company.

"Reese, I....why did he fire you? What grounds does he have to stand on?"

Letting out a heavy sigh Nate lays a hand on Susanne's shoulder. This wasnt right and something was to wrong. Reese was the heart of the company he couldnt go, but what could he do. Surly if he went up against Austin himself he would get fired as well.

Making it into the parking lot Jess car lets out a horrable cloud of black smoke. She had been lucky enough to make it to the car shop alright at least.

Getting out Jess waves her hand just a little bit trying to clear the black smoke. Rolling her eyes at herself she trys not to let a grin show as she enters car gradge.

Going over to the counter Jess rings a small bell and waits. She hoped she hadnt went through all the truble just to find out Axel wasnt working today.

Waiting

Jason sighs. Not out of laziness or lack of wanting to help. But out of pure frustration and the feeling of helplessness. It was bad enough Scott had to endure two months of torture most people couldn't even imagine. But now that he was back, why did he have to suffer more?

Jason walks slowly to the bathroom and leans in the doorway, not sure how he could even help at this point. "Hey, buddy, you alright?"

"Mm-hmm." Scott is still leaning against the wall, and manages a nod, though his eyes are closed.

"Can I get you anything?"

Scott shakes his head.

Jason turns around and puts up his hands, showing he doesn't know what to do.

Just then Rick walks back in the infirmary, raising his eyebrows as he looks around, doesn't see Scott, then spots Jason at the other end of the room. "What happened?"

Jason nods into the bathroom. "So much for breakfast."

Rick's shoulders drop and shakes his head, commenting quietly. "He's got himself so worked up that he can't eat right even when he finally relents." Slowly he goes to Jason, nodding that he can go back to Katie. Kneeling down next to Scott, he sets a hand on his shoulder. "You gonna make it?"

Scott shrugs lamely. "I feel like crap."

"I know. Come on." Rick prompts him to get back to his feet. "I won't make you try to eat anything else now."

Scott gradually gets to his feet with Rick's help and trudges back to the bed where he simply lies down on his side, curling up into a ball as was his normal position now.

Rick watches him for a moment, setting his hands on his hips.

Jason gives him a look of question. "What are you going to do?" he asks quietly.

"I don't know. But if he doesn't start cooperating, his body is just going to start shutting down."

"Isn't there anything you can give him? Or anything?" Worry courses through Jason, even for a man that not all that long ago, he'd called an enemy.

Rick shakes his head slowly. "Not unless I hook him back up to an i.v. again and I really didn't want to. We'll just have to wait and see what happens."

He gestures to both Jason and Katie. "He'll be alright now if you guys want to take off. There's nothing else here you can do."

Jason gives a little nod. "Alright. Thanks, Rick. If anything happens, call one of us, will ya?"

"Sure thing."

Jason heads for the door.

Guess that's that. We can come back later to check on things if you want. Otherwise... I guess the day is ours.

Making it back through the main floor, Jason lets his eyes roam to where the other offices were, glad that they'd avoided Austin for now.

Getting outside into the fresh air, Jason takes a deep breath and lets it out slowly. His emotions were churning around more than he liked on an average day. There was Scott to think about... he was still burning up about Austin... and now his recent phone conversation with his mother was bothering him too.

Can we just go somewhere?

Jason gets to his truck, tossing his silent dialogue in Katie's direction.

Can we just leave and forget everything that's happening? Just... go...

He sighs and slides in behind the steering wheel, unsure if he and Katie were headed in the same direction or not.

Maybe Mom and Pop's will have to do for today. What do you say?


Rick lays a blanket over Scott and gives the younger man's shoulder a pat before going back to his desk. There wasn't much he could do right now, but let Scott rest. He looked as though he hadn't slept a wink the night before anyway.

Easing into his chair, Rick notices that already his voicemail has a message. Listening carefully, he jots down a note, his interest piqued. In a while... He glances to Scott's resting form. Yes, in a while... he would take a short leave from the office.


"Grease! Hey!" Leo shouts from one end of the garage to the other, seeing only the red hair of the back of Axel's head. "Axel!"

Axel finally hears his name and whirls around. "What?"

"Bring me that black toolbox, would ya?"

Axel glances around, spotting the box under the tool bench. Wiping his hands on a rag, he bends down to lift the heavy box and head in Leo's direction. The other mechanic had two hoses in his hand that he couldn't set down or get into a position where he could have left it to get the tools himself.

Almost there though, Axel suddenly drops the toolbox. It crashes loudly to the floor, the latch popping to send tools all over the concrete floor.

Leo's eyes widen. "Slippery handle?"

"No..." Axel grimaces as he rubs his scarred hand, trying to feel the circulation again. "Sorry."

"You alright?"

"Yeah." Axel's disgust comes through in his tone.

"You go numb again?"

Axel nods. "Yeah."

Leo stands helplessly, unable to leave the tangled mess he was in. "That's been happening a lot lately."

Axel flexes his fingers. "Don't remind me." After a moment, he squats down to pick up the mess. "You needed this wrench, didn't you?"


Rick parks his car, glancing at his watch. It was now late morning, but early enough, Hope should be in. He probably should have called her back first, but there had been too many people around, providing lack of good opportunity, not to mention Scott hadn't drifted to sleep until about twenty minutes ago and Rick had left Misty in charge.

Walking up to the glass door, he enters the building, met by a warm atmosphere. Glancing around, he waits, unsure about what or who he was looking for.


The door to TJY slams shut, echoing across the main floor. Austin stalks towards his office, the glare in his eye one that would make anyone cower. He had been gone for several hours, and now no one was really glad to see him back, especially in this mood.

Reaching Susanne's office, he doesn't even acknowledge her, moving straight into Reese's office. "Reese!"

Reese looks up quickly from his desk, startled to the point of almost standing up. He'd been concentrating so hard on a case that he hadn't heard Austin come in. A bit of a chill runs down his spine as he hears the tone of Austin's voice and sees the look on his face. "Yes?"

"You're fired."

"What?!" Reese is on his feet, his eyes wide. "What for?!"

"Don't give me that," Austin snaps. "You're not that stupid. You weren't stupid enough not to know how to undermine me and get me dragged into an investigation. And if that's the way you work, you're through here."

"Undermine? Investigation???" Reese stares at him dumbly. "What are you talking about?"

"You and Brown are like this." Austin crosses his fingers. "I should have known you'd try to pull a stunt like this. Well it stops now. Pack up. I want you out by tonight." Spinning on his heel, he aims for his own office, slamming yet another door.

Reese blinks, dumbfounded at what had just happened. What on earth...? A figure in his doorway makes him turn and he sees Susanne looking at him with fear and worry.

"Did he... just fire you?" She asks timidly.

"Um... it... looks that way." Reese just stands for a moment, completely shocked. He had no idea what was going on. "I guess... I..." He finally just shrugs. Words couldn't describe the way he felt. He was at a total loss.

Reaching to his belt, he pulls off his Elite badge and looks at it for a moment. This job had been his life for how many years? His mission... his passion... And it was... gone?

Susanne shakes her head stubbornly. "He can't do this to you."

"Oh, but he can."

"Then you have to fight it."

"Fight what? A power-hungry man out to get everybody and who knows all the tricks in the book? It's not an easy win, Susanne."

"But you don't even know what he's talking about!"

"I guess I'll have to find out. But in the meantime..." He gestures to his office, helplessly. "Looks like I have to pack."

New Challange

Giving a smile and a nod Katie looks at Scott and than to Domino.

"Yeah I will watch her for you Scotty. She is in good hands and you dont have to worry about a thing. I have some left over food from when she was with me I was gonna give ya so thats not a problem at all."

Katie looks up again at Jason though her mind felt blank still so many things ran through it. Katie didnt know what to do anymore.

Continuing to follow and help Scott Katie stops for a bref moment to pick up some of the reading matearal for Scott.

He might want this to keep him busy if he stays.

After dropping Domino off, making sure she was all set and heading back to TJY Katie keeps glancing in the mirror at Scott making sure he was ok. Katie was scaired for him

All we can really do is be there for him and be the shelter he needs. Staying close to Jason Katie follows him inside keeping watchful eyes out for anyone who might come to them.

Listing to Scott and Rick talk Katie stands leaning aganst the wall. Scott did need help. His own mind was starting to play games that would lead him down a dangerous path.

It was only confermed more when Scott ran to the bathroom to throw up that he needed even more help.

Yeah He does.

Jotting down the number fast on a peace of paper Hope sets it aside till she is done listing to the rest of her messages.

Once finished she studys the number on the paper. Picking up the phone she dials Reese number letting it ring a few times till his own voice mail picks up.

"Hello Mr. Reese, this is Hope Garrison. You called me about a young man would was in need of a little bit of help. I am usaly in the office monday through friday from 8am- 11:30am than I take lunch from 11:30-12:30pm than I am in the office till about 6pm. If you wanna stop by at all to talk please feel free or give me a call again as we can set up a time to meet at lunch or what not. Thank you very much have a good afternoon."

Hanging up Hope just stairs at the number again for a moment. Something felt differnt before she even new the story of this boy, the feeling was one of challang that might change life forever.

Looking to Carson Herb gives a smile and nods. Though he was sad to see Carson go he was happy at the same time that his friend would be with family. Dani seemed like a great girl with a good head on her shoulders. Herb was glad Carson wanted to move in with her.

"I think it will be good for you Carson. I'm going to miss knowing you here and looking out for the place but I cant exspect you to live in a little room forever ya know?!"

Moving around the kitchen Herb continues to work as the orders come in.

"I'm happy you have decied to move in with Dani. It might gave a chanse to make up some lost time there huh? And that would be a good thing. Family is important and should always be first."

Chill

Scott keeps his eyes to the floor, wanting to find Katie's and Jason's words as a comfort. But it was as if he were surrounded by a steel wall. He could hear the words and understand their meaning, but they simply couldn't penetrate to his being.

He swallows hard and gives a little nod. "Katie, can you... can you take Domino for me?" Finally he lifts his gaze to look at her. Though one eye could no longer show his emotions, his other could, and it was flooded with a mixture that one almost couldn't decipher. "She, um... she can't come back to TJY anymore."

A bit of fear enters his voice, thinking about not only Austin harming Domino, but thinking of being without his little friend too. "I... I don't know what... to do with her... or anything. I..."

Jason isn't sure what happened back at TJY, but what Wyatt had said had been enough. "Don't worry about it," he assures. "Nothing's gonna happen to her."

"But I don't have... any food or.. or anything."

"Scott... do I have to repeat myself?" Jason bends to see Scott's face. "It's as good as taken care of."

You wouldn't mind taking Domino back to your place, would you?

"We can take Domino back to Katie's place on our way to TJY, alright?"

Scott looks down at the little dog before leaning down to pick her up and bury his face in her fur. Finally he nods. "Okay."

Jason purses his lips, thinking, trying to decide a plan of action, but all they could do was just that... go to TJY.

Yeah, I know... I'm not going to let him spend another night alone, no matter how upset he gets. At this point though, he might actually give in to staying at TJY again. I don't know what happened, but whatever's been going through his mind hasn't been good. I'd almost say I thought he was scared.

"Alright... come on. You got anything to bring?"

Scott looks around to the few little things others had brought him, then shakes his head. He'd barely touched any of the food, and the things Susanne had provided could stay. "No."

"Let's go then."

Jason leads the way out of the small house, then lets Katie and Scott walk ahead of him, closing and locking the door behind them.

Scott stops halfway down the sidewalk, Domino still in his arms, and looks to Katie for just a moment. "Thank you..." Dropping his gaze again, he steps forward, slowly until Jason is in the lead again so he can follow him to the pickup.

Before long, Domino has been dropped off at Katie and Laura's place to stay indefinitely once again, then both vehicles make their way to TJY. Arriving, Jason slides from the truck, putting his keys in his pocket, and shoving all his apprehensions aside. He didn't want to be here... he didn't want to see his grandfather... he didn't want to step through those doors and see again how much things were changing.

Turning around, he realizes that Scott isn't behind him. Waiting, he cocks his head, motioning that it's okay.

Scott takes a deep breath and finally exits as well, stuffing his hands in his hoodie pockets, his shoulders drooping as he walks with Jason and Katie.

What are we going to do, Katie? Isn't there anything we can do at all? I just feel so... bad.

A bit of guilt rises from deep in Jason as memories surface of the day he'd taken out all his pent-up anger on Scott, who had been helpless. And now... things were turned around, and he was trying to help.

I guess I should just be grateful that he trust me at all now.

Getting inside and making their way to the infirmary, Jason throws a wave to Laura, and a nod to Nate, acknowledging them as they pass. Down the hall, they pass the couple offices, and Scott hesitates as he passes by Dalton's open door. Turning his head just a bit, he spots Dalton and catches his eye for just a moment before looking away and walking again.

Rick greets all three warmly, not asking questions, but just taking it all in stride. "Hey, guys. Katie... Jason... Scott, how are you?"

Scott shrugs, trudging to the bed and sitting down on the edge, simply waiting for further instructions. He was here because he couldn't think for himself anymore.

Rick lifts an eyebrow, but moves about the infirmary casually. "Got some breakfast here, Scott, if you want it."

Jason looks to Katie and nods to a couple chairs. He wanted to wait just a little while before leaving to make sure everything was alright.

Scott shrugs at Rick again. "I'm not hungry..."

"I know. But I got some eggs and toast from Janet... at least try them?"

"Okay."

Rick nods with satisfaction. That was more like it.

Scott settles back on the bed, figuring he'd be here a while again. Things are fairly quiet... Jason and Katie stick around for a while and Scott does his best to make Rick happy with eating something.

Rick starts some other work, then excuses himself for a while, leaving the three alone. It's a bit quiet for a while, other than some forced small talk. Jason didn't know whether they should go or stay, and Scott didn't know what Rick would be doing with him.

But no sooner had he tried to relax, than he proved that his stomach hadn't been ready for the morning meal. Suddenly, and without a word, he slides off the bed to make it as fast as he can to the infirmary bathroom, throwing up all that Rick had tried to get in to him.

Having been startled, Jason is on his feet, then realizing what was happening.

Aw man... You think he needs help?

Scott slides down onto the bathroom floor without the energy to stand. Just leaning his head against the wall by the toilet, he waits as another wave of nausea hits him. His body had nothing more to give... he had no strength... no way to fight off the fatigue.


Rick thumbs through the phone book in the break room, finally finding the name he was looking for: Hope Garrison. He'd heard about her... she was young and fairly new, but he'd heard she was good. And right now, they needed good.

Reaching for the phone, he dials, receiving an answering machine. "Hello, Miss Garrison. My name is Rick Johnston - I'm a physician for the law enforcement branch, the Elite. One of our agents recently endured a traumatic experience, and it's my opinion that it would be in his best interests to see a professional counselor. However, there are details that I should only share in person before he is denied or accepted. So, if you could give me a call back at your earliest convenience, that would be great."

Rick leaves the number of the infirmary line, then ends the call. "Would love to set up a meeting to discuss this issue. Thank you so much for your time."


"So..." Carson pauses his work, wiping his hands on a towel, and wincing a little. His finger was a whole lot sorer today than he'd like to admit. "...Dani and I talked, and I'm gonna try living with her for a while. Clear up the back room here... see how it goes."

He looks to Herb, hoping for approval in his older friend's eyes.

"I can walk from her place to work every day and I talked with the insurance company the other day, and I'm gonna be able to lessen my payment amounts starting next month, so then I'll have a little cash to help with Dani's rent, even though she said I wouldn't have to."

Moving easily around the kitchen, it seemed at times he could do this job with his eyes closed. He sets a pan in the sink to wash later, them moves back to the counter where he was preparing food. "Anyway, I guess I just thought it might be a nice change, ya know?"


Jen bites her lip and reaches up for a book on the shelf. She was alone in the den at the back of the house, her parents in the living room watching television.

Unable to reach the book, she sighs and stares up at it with irritation. Reaching again, she can just get about two inches away from what she wanted to read.

Frustrated, she sits for a moment, not wanting to have to call for her dad, or go out and recruit help. After a couple seconds, she places her hands on the armrests of her wheelchair, bracing herself. She'd been warned by her therapist about trying things like this... but there had been no improvement in months... what damage had been done was permanent, and couldn't get any worse than it already was. Therapy wouldn't even continue next month if there still was no sign of change.

Gritting her teeth, Jen raises herself up out of her seat slightly, just enough to steady herself with her hands, and then grab for the shelf for support. Misjudging the distance though, she gropes thin air, and before she knows it, she's on the floor. A sharp pain surges through her back, making her cry out. Most of the time she was patient... most of the time she endured her condition with humility. But sometimes... at times like this... no one saw how frustrated she really could feel.

Managing to pull herself into a sitting position, she leans back against an overstuffed chair, feeling a tear run down her cheek as she breathes through the wave of pain. Staring up, she spots the book she still wanted to read. But now she's have to call for help.

Having already had a bad day just made her feel worse. All she wanted to do was just curl up in a ball and pretend that things were back to the way they used to be.

Drawing her legs up to her chest, she rests her forehead on her knees, too tired now to call anybody just yet.

But suddenly her head rises, a strange flutter moving through her stomach. Glancing down, the pain she felt turned to a chill that ran up and down her spine.

Air

Entering the house and seeing her friend almost in the same position as the day before Katie's heart acks even more. Walking over to Scott Katie bends down for a moment laying a hand on his arm.

"Hey there Scotty. We are going to make sure you ok, alright? We are gonna bring you to TJY, get ya cleaned up and some food. Your not a bother to us at all. We love ya buddy. Your our friend and we would do anything for you."

Katie gives a wry grin to Jason. She didnt like hearing Scott talk like this, and she didnt like seeing him so helpless.

We got to get him to Rick Jason. He's got to find help for Scott and we cant let him alone anymore untill that help is given.

Helping Jason lift Scott Kaite keeps a smile on her face for Scott's sake. Helping Scott stand and move all she can Kaite keeps on talking. She wanted Scott to know they were there, she wanted him to know he was not alone. They would be there for him.

Watching Kyle leave Misty can't help but crings a little at his last statment. Something about it felt so final like maybe, they might NOT see each other again.

Leaning back in her chair Misty runs a hand over her face as she lets out a long sigh. Leaning forward again Misty takes the tin from her desk and puts it in the draw for the moment. Memories, sometimes it was better to let them go and sometimes it was better to keep them. when did you know what one was the best.

Trying to get to her work Misty's mind wonders not letting her land on one thing. She couldnt think, she needed air. She had just gotten here but she felt like she couldnt breath.

Standing she grabs her jacket putting it on and than looking to Rick before heading to the door.

"I have to get some air Rick. I'll make up my time and stay later I'm sorry."

Exiting Misty makes her way across the main floor heading for the outside world.

I understand

Jason can't help his grin as Katie comes to join him in the truck, bringing the coffee. Letting a sip of the warm liquid run down his throat, he sighs with content.

You know just how to wake a guy up. Thank you.

He gives a weary laugh.

Yeah, I guess even being suspended has an upside. Personally, I'd like to have a job and spend all my time with you a the same time. Oh wait... I usually do.

He throws Katie a sidelong glance, covering his smile by taking another sip of coffee.


Rick picks up the phone in the infirmary, answering Katie's call. "Oh good, I'm glad it was you and Jason staying there during the night. I kept wondering all night how Scott was. Anyway, I was just on my way to come get him, but I wasn't sure how he'd respond...if I'd even get him back here. I'm sure he'd respond better to you and Jason - or at least you though, so I'm game for you two taking a shot at it first. Then I'll just wait here for you."


Once the call is over, and the decision is made to first simply start off by making sure Scott was still okay, Jason exits his truck, waiting for Katie, then crossing over the street to walk to Scott's house once more.

Hearing someone at the door, Domino starts to bark, scampering away from Scott, then back to him again, but unable to rouse him.

Scott hears the knock at the door, but feels too lethargic to get up. He was awake... he wanted to get up... he wanted to leave... but he felt almost held in place by his own exhausted emotions.

Jason knocks on the door a second time, then glances at Katie when they don't receive a response. "Scott?" he calls.

Nothing.

He frowns, reaching for the doorknob. "Call me wrong, but... I think we need to go in and make sure he's okay."

Slowly opening the door, Jason peers into the dim house. Domino is right there, and when she spots Katie, she runs to her, jumping up on her legs and wriggling all over with excitement.

Jason steps inside and around the dog, looking around and into the living room. "Scott?"

Scott glances up from the corner where he'd been huddled the last few hours. Though a blanket was feet away, he hadn't used it, and was cold and stiff. He swallows hard and tries to find his voice. "Jason?"

Jason almost cringes at Scott's weak tone. "Yeah it's me," he answers gently. Going to the corner, he drops to a knee next to his friend. "You alright?"

Scott shakes his head. "No."

"What's wrong?"

"I..." Scott stops. He felt silly. He felt stupid. He felt weak. "I just... it..."

Jason waits patiently. "What is it?"

Scott's eyes remain glued to the floor. "Don't leave me alone?"

He's hurting bad, Katie. I know he wanted to be here, but it hasn't done him any good. He's getting worse.

"We're not going anywhere." Jason assures. "We wanted to take you to TJY for a while. Get you something to eat... clean up a bit. Feel up to it?"

Scott starts to shake his head, but then finally nods. "Alright..."

Needing Jason's help, he finally gets to his feet, a little unsteadily. Finally glancing up to Jason, then to Katie, heat comes to his face before he drops his gaze again. "I'm sorry," he says quietly. "I know I'm being a burden."

"You are not a burden," Jason states flatly. "Friends are never burdens."

Scott still hesitates. "I just... I feel so helpless. My mind is... is telling me too many things at once and... and I just can't... I mean..."

Jason sets a hand on Scott's shoulder. "It's okay. You're gonna be alright."

Scott's eyes remain downcast, his voice growing even quieter. "If I don't leave the world before then."

A chill runs down Jason's spine.

Please don't tell me he's saying what I think he's saying... That's what Carson was afraid of.

"Scott... look at me..." Jason forces Scott to look up at him, growing a little firm. "What are you talking about?"

Emotions pool in Scott's eyes, his voice wavering. "Rick was right... I need help." Hiding his face once more, he feels as though he wants to run away, yet his feet stay planted. He can feel Jason and Katie looking at him, and feels as though he were guilty for something, carrying shame for something he didn't even know. It felt illogical, but it was there anyway. And all he could do was stare at the floor.


Kyle nods his head as Misty asks for confirmation about the little treasure. "Yeah. I'm sure. It doesn't do anybody any good sitting out there on the lake." He starts to say more, but stops, thinking better of it, and just listening further.

As Misty hugs him, at first he doesn't return it, but slowly he he reaches her arms around her, embracing her lightly. "It's okay," he responds quietly. "I understand."

His eyes follow her as she pulls away, and her mention of the concert brings the grin back to his face. "Good."

Seeing the tears on her face, Kyle cocks his head and reaches out to gently wipe them away with a soft hand. "Hey, there's no need for those," he chides in almost a whisper. "We can't control what our hearts feel."

Placing a finger under her chin, he tilts her face upward to look at him again. A smile spreads on his face. "So go get what your heart wants, and don't let me stand in your way."

He winks at her. "I gotta get to work or my boss will have my head, then you wouldn't get to see me at all." He gives a short laugh. "I'll see you soon, and... my offer still stands... if you ever need anything..." He simply ends with a nod.

Stepping back, he bends in a dramatic bow with flourish. "Been real, Miss T. Catch ya later." Spinning around, he heads for the door, a song escaping as a whistle as he goes.

Coffee

Slowly walks twords Jason's truck Katie can't help but smile getting his message.

Coffee huh? You had been let me in than or it will be getting cold. I'm one step ahead.

Opening the passanger side of Jason's truck she holds the two cups of coffee in her hand. than hands on to Jason while she sips her own.

mmmm....coffee.

Quiet for a few moment Katie just looks at Scott's house studying it. She was worryed for Scott but there wasnt much more they could do without making Scott feel worse.

I guess sometimes no news is better than some right?

Letting out a sigh and leaning back Katie takes a sip of her coffee. She hadnt slept to well in her car because her mind kept roaming to Scott and if he was ok, her eyes showed it but she tryed not to let it bother her.

I'm gonna call Rick and see if he is still coming to get Scott. Than we can go from there and if you wanna spend the day together doing something I am all for that. I think thats actully the one thing I like about being saspended. I get more time with you.

Katie gives a smile to Jason as she pulls out her phone and dials Ricks number. Finally hearing an answer.

"Hey Rick it's Katie. Jason and I spend the night outside Scott's house just to make sure the Agency wasnt watching him and gonna try anything and what not. We havnt hurd a peep from the house yet. "

Katie gances at Jason for a moment and than looks back to the house.

"Yeah we just wanted to see if you were gonna still come get Scott? We didnt want to leave untill we new someone alse was going to be showing up."

Looking up from her desk and seeing Kyle a new emotion rised in her. After what had happend yesterday and the message on her answering mashean she thought for sure she wouldnt be seeing Kyle for a while.

Listing to Kyle Misty can feel his akwardness and hope it wouldnt be this way. She hated feeling this, she hated see Kyle so...dull. The smile was on his face but the glint was gone from his eye and it hurt Misty to think she had causes this.

"I'm not happy yet, but I dont know whats going to happen."

Dropping her gaze to the tin that sat on her desk a small tear formed in her eye as she opened it and look apon the rocks and shells that layed there.

"Kyle, this...this is something you treasured alot. Are...are you sure you want to give this to me?"

Looking back up at Kyle Misty studys his eyes some more, he hurt, she hurt. Standing Misty takes Kyle and gives him a small hug.

"I'm sorry Kyle. I really am...for everything. I dont want you to think anything I told you was a lie because it wasnt. Even if nothing happens with Carson and I again Kyle you deserve better anyways. I never want you to think your second best, or feel like you are because you not. Your a wonderful guy with a great life ahead of him."

Misty steps back again her own face sticken with tears. She really did care for Kyle, he ment so much to her and he has helped her alot. Caring for him maybe that really was why this hurt because she could see herself with Kyle, she could see a life with him, but now that couldnt happen.

"Yes...I still want to come to the conserts."

Turning her head a little bit Misty trys to smile.

"...I wouldnt miss them for the world."

Sorry

Cindy falls into Wes' hug, burying her face in his shoulder and letting a few more tears fall.

Finally she pulls back and sniffs, wiping her eyes. "I love you too." She manages a small smile and tries to compose herself, gesturing for Wes to eat. "I'm okay now..."

She takes a deep breath and lets it out slowly. "I'm just not used to Jason getting upset with me I guess. It just caught me off guard. But... it's okay. He's just really upset with Austin about a few things and I'm sure he'll work it out."

Cindy nods with emphasis, trying to get back on track and not take Jason's harshness too personally. "I don't know what all is going on, but maybe... I don't know... I can't believe some of the things Jason said about Austin but maybe... maybe we should ask Brent since he's still here... or talk to Mick or something." She shrugs. "I'm sure it's nothing."


Axel stands with Jess and puts his own money down too, leading the way out of the restaurant and holding the door for her.

"Well... if your car gives you any trouble, just give us a call." He offers Jess his slight smile and is quiet for a moment as if contemplating something else, but then lets it go. "I'll see you around."

Giving a little wave, he heads for his truck, aiming back to work.


The day grows on, seeming long for some, and short for others. The speed of time, so often appears to be within the perspective of one self, and not within the frame of science. But in the end, nightfall comes.


Jason eases back in his truck seat, a fair distance from Scott's house. No movement had been seen. Scott had not emerged. Jason knew Katie was a little ways away too, also keeping watch.

I think this is gonna be one long night.

He yawns.

He's not going anywhere... Though I do feel better that we're here in case the Agency pulls any stunts.

Settling back, he tries to keep his eyes open, glad that even though he was alone, he had someone to talk to.



Midnight.
Phil groans and stretches on the couch, having fallen asleep a couple hours prior. Yawning, he clicks off the television and rises to go to bed. But as he stands, he realizes that the house has been quiet.

Going to the window he looks out to see and empty parking space. Now it was getting a little strange. The two brothers didn’t make a habit out of keeping close track of one another – they both had their own private lives. But as a simple courtesy, they usually at least let the other know if they were going to be out late.

Thinking a moment, Phil tries calling Kyle’s cell phone as he had earlier, but still receives no answer. Now he was just a bit worried. It was too late to call Jen now – she’d be in bed, and he didn’t want to wake up the entire house. He really didn’t want to bother Misty either, but it seemed the lesser of two evils.

Finally making up his mind, he dials. Just as he hears it ringing on the other end though, the front door opens. Abandoning the call, he hangs up. “Kyle?”

Kyle tosses his keys on the table, a small, rusted tin under his arm. “Yo.”

Phil wanders to the kitchen, folding his arms. “I just about called somebody ‘cause you weren’t back. Everything alright?”

“Yeah, sure.” Kyle sets the tin down and goes to the refrigerator to hunt for something to eat.

Phil quirks an eyebrow. “Long day?”

“Mm-hmm.” Kyle grabs a bottle of pop, then simply aims for a bag of potato chips.

Phil waits for a longer explanation, but receives none. “So… I was just a little worried. Where ya been?”

Kyle stuffs a chip in his mouth and shrugs. “Out.”

“Oh. Well… usually you say something when it’s gonna be this late.”

“Sorry,” Kyle mumbles, taking a swig of pop. He holds up his cell phone. “Battery.”

“Oh.” Phil furrows his brow, watching his brother. “Everything alright?”

“Yeah, why?”

“I don’t know, you just seem… a little off kilter maybe.”

Kyle tosses him a quirky grin. “Since when is that new?”

Phil smirks at him. Moving closer, he realizes that it looked as though Kyle had worked himself up into a sweat at some point. “You sure you’re alright?”

Kyle rolls his eyes, chewing a mouthful of chips before responding. “Yes! If I wasn’t, would I be standing here? Sorry I didn’t call. Didn’t know it was that big of a deal.”

Phil gives a little shrug. “No…no big deal.” He eyes the peculiar tin on the counter. “What’s that?”

“Trinkets of a lost time.”

Phil frowns, confused by the cryptic answer. “What?”

Kyle takes a swig of pop and moves to open the tin, showing his brother. It was full of odd items… pretty little rocks and shells mostly.

“Ohh.” Phil raises his eyebrows as he remembers days spent down at the lake when Kyle would make his rounds, picking up anything little that caught his eye. Phil had thought it was silly at first, but at some point had seen the collection and thought it was cool. He’d never known what Kyle’s real reason was, other than just something to keep him busy, but it had been years since he’d even thought about it. He had assumed the box had been forgotten or thrown away. “Didn’t you bury that or something?”

Kyle shrugs and eats another chip, wiping his hand on his jeans. “Kind of.”

“And now…”

“I know somebody who liked some of this stuff. Figured it was about time I got rid of it.”

“Oh.” Phil stands lamely for a moment, still a bit confused. “So… did you have to chase it down or something? Looks like you’ve had quite a workout.”

Kyle pauses his junk food meal to roll his eyes again. “You wanna know which pair of underwear I got on today too?”

Phil sighs. “Sorry. I’m going to bed. See you tomorrow.”

“Great.” Kyle watches his brother leave, eats a couple more chips, then puts the bag away, tossing the rest of his pop back in the refrigerator. Picking up the tin again, he ambles down the hall to go to bed too.



Scott stuffs his hands in his jacket pockets and trudges down the street. People and cars pass him, stirring up the air and blowing trash across his path, but he doesn’t seem to really notice. The sounds around him felt miles away. The traffic lights all blend together in a confusing kaleidoscope of colors, and a barking dog goes unheard.

An unknown purpose leads him forward to an unknown destination. But as he steps across the bridge, he stops. Turning to look down at the river below, a chilly wind whips across his face. Passing traffic pays no heed as he stands waiting… thinking.

Like a nightmare that wouldn’t go away, the past hurts bombarded his mind. As if they were right there, Scott could see the enemy right behind him. He could still see the eyes. He could still feel the pain that had been inflicted. He could still feel the fear. It was a terror that still surged through his veins.

Looking over his shoulder, Scott sees nothing but a bleak world. The sky was gray and the clouds hung low. No one seemed to care. Everything was going on around him as normal, while his own world had been torn apart.

Fear clung to him like a disease. His heart leapt at every sudden noise. No peace. No joy. Just…gray.

Turning back around, he leans on the railing of the bridge, looking down…down. The water was deep and cold. Small whitecaps were forming from the strong wind. No sun. No warmth. Just a chilling prospect.

Moving as if in a trance, Scott steps over the rail to the small ledge, barely wide enough for one’s feet. Slipping, he catches himself, the fear increasing. But what good was catching himself when nothing awaited him but the pain he couldn’t control anyway?

Licking his chapped lips, he lets go of the rail and stares down. It was better this way. Closing his eyes, he takes a deep breath, and takes the step forward into nothing but the death that was waiting…beckoning...


Scott sits bolt upright, the sweat pouring down the sides of his face, the adrenaline racing through his veins. He stares into the darkness, and scoots back up against the living room wall in the corner.

Domino whines and nuzzles his hand, but he doesn’t respond, only drawing himself in tighter. He hated the days. He hated the nights. It didn’t matter if his eyes were open or closed… if his mind was awake or asleep. The nightmares would come anyway. And this one… this dream… it had been too real.

Now with a new fear evoked, Scott trembles. A strange panic begins to rise within him. He had never feared himself or his own mind… until now. How far would he really go? How completely had his spirit really been demolished?

Looking around in the dark, he realizes that he has no way of communicating with anyone. He had no phone. He had no one here. It was just him and the dark thoughts that had invaded his mind and soul. Never had he wanted the morning to come more.


And morning does come, at long last. Some have received restful sleep. While others have been too alert and on edge to receive the rest they want. But time does not stop... it only presses onward, one second at a time...


Jason rubs his eyes wearily and he blinks. Had he dozed off? He couldn't remember.

Hey, where's the coffee? I'm dying over here.

A grin creases his lips.

No excitement. That would be a good thing.

He glances at his watch.

And... My bet would be that Rick will be here any time to pick up Scott. He mentioned he'd do that this morning, and people should be at TJY by now. What's up for us the rest of the day?


Scott sits back against the wall, having not slept again after his nightmare. He didn't know what to do or where to go. He felt so alone, and so smothered at the same time. He hadn't wanted to go back to TJY today.... but now... part of him hoped Rick came quickly so his mind could not take over again.


A light knock on the infirmary door catches Rick's attention and he looks up quickly. He'd just been getting ready to leave to go check on Scott and hopefully bring him back, and had been concentrating on his tasks, now a little startled. "Yes?"

Kyle peeks his head in around the corner. "Hey, Rick. Can I come in?"

"Of course you can." Rick smiles and nods. "What brings you here? Nothing wrong, I hope."

Kyle shakes his head as he enters. "Naw, I just wanted to see your assistant."

"Ah." Rick studies Kyle for a moment, unsure of the situation going on around him. He knew things had changed, but didn't know details.

Kyle holds the old tin in his hand and it rattles just a little as he walks across the infirmary to Misty's desk. Looking down at her for a moment, a quirky grin surfaces. "Hey, Miss T." It felt odd not to lean down and give her a playful kiss, but he moves past the awkwardness.

"I, um..." He purses his lips, then sighs. "Wanted to apologize." His smile lessens a little, but remains nonetheless. "I wasn't feeling too well yesterday, but it was no excuse for me not respecting your wish to get together. So... I'm sorry."

He sets the tin down on Misty's desk, hesitating a moment. "I kinda already knew what you were gonna talk about." He pauses, not liking admitting this, but knowing he should. "Saw you at Mom and Pop's yesterday morning, and... well.. yeah. Score one for the Mitts timing."

A dry laugh escapes. "Guess I didn't really figure it was worth rehashing after I'd already figured out what was going on."

He clears his throat, dropping his gaze for a moment, then looking back at Misty again. "I, um... brought you this." He pushes the tin a little closer to her. "Box was full so I guess the collection is complete and... I knew you liked this stuff. So I guess... I don't know... maybe it's me trying to apologize, or maybe I just want you to have it 'cause I like seeing you smile. Either way, it's yours."

Hooking his hands in his pockets, he shifts his weight a little awkwardly, not knowing what else he should say. "I... I hope you're happy. Really... I do. And... I'm not going anywhere, so..." He shrugs. "...if you can stand being friends with me, I'll take what I can get."

Another crooked grin forms on his mouth. "I had fun, Misty. Guess I owe you a thanks for that." He bites his lower lip and brings a twinkle to his eyes. "And unless your taste in music has changed," he teases, "I meant what I said on the phone about you coming to our concerts."

He pauses again, disliking the silence, though giving Misty the opportunity to say something if she wanted to.

I love you

Taking a sip of her milk Jess listens to Axel talk picking up on a few small things here and there signaling other things were harder to talk about than some.

As the time comes to a close Jess can't help but feel a little bit sad. The comapny was nice and all she would be doing now is going home to an empty house. But what she to do Axel did have to get back to work.

"Well Axel I thank you as well for having lunch with me. It was nice and I enjoyed it."

Standing Jess put a bit of money on the table for her food and gives a smile to Axel decieding to wait for him before she walked out.

Entering the house Wes gives Cindy a small wave and smile seeing she was one the phone. Going to the bathroom Wes washes his hands and splashes some water on his face cleaning himself up/ On the way out though he can hear the change in Cindy's voice and trying not to over hear the conversation he catches just a little bit.

Going back to the kitchen table Wes sits decieding to wait till she was off the phone. Grabbing the paper he opens it and starts to read. His eyes move from it though as his wife goes to the kitchen and starts to make his lunch. Just watching her for a moment to make sure she was ok.

Finally when Cindy is off the phone and sits in the chair next to Wes he says nothing watching the tears fall from his wifes eyes it pains his heart to see her sad. Pushing his food aside for moment Wes stands going over to his wife bending down infront of her taking her hand in his an rubbing his thumb over her hand before pulling her into a hug and just holding her.

"I love you Sweetheart!!"

Thats all Wes needed to say..if Cindy wanted to tell him more she would.