Awkward?

Rick manages to get up off the floor with Janet's help, appreciating her presence. He grits his teeth, feeling more pain for this situation than he had so far. He doesn't have to explain to his wife what had happened - it was obvious.

Once he gets Scott back in bed, he cleans him up some and puts several new blankets over him, hoping to at least keep him warm while he was in his lethargic sleep state from the drugs. Cleaning up the shallow cut, it doesn't take much, for which Rick was thankful. He didn't know how he'd stopped Scott from doing more damage than that, but it didn't matter.

"I had to sedate him," he explains solemnly. "This is as bad as I've seen, and I'm not sure he was even completely aware of what he was doing. He was stuck in a nightmare. I don't know if he'll even remember this in the morning."

After finishing up with Scott, Rick sighs deeply, then turns his attention to himself. Shedding his lab coat, he rolls up his sleeve to see the cut in his own forearm and grimaces a little. "Well, at least I got the brunt of it instead of Scott."

Needing an extra hand, he has Janet help him clean the cut and put a light bandage over it. Finally finished, it seems like the whole process had taken hours, when in reality, it had only been half an hour.

With Scott settled, and a spare moment, Rick is finally able to eat the supper Janet had brought, enjoying it, despite his emotions that were churning. Earlier in the day, he'd thought he could just send Scott in for visits to Hope and not worry about him being by himself. But now... now he wasn't so sure. What was really best for Scott? What should be done? Was he doing the right thing? Was there something else he should be doing? Was Scott really a danger to himself, or was this a one-time incident?

Finished eating, he gives a sigh, rising to wash his hands. When done, he returns to his wife, wrapping her in a warm embrace and planting a kiss on her forehead. "I have to spend the night," he informs quietly. "In the morning when Misty comes in, I'll come home for a little bit of sleep before coming back. But I need to keep an eye on Scott tonight and ten-minute check-ins by Hal aren't enough."

Letting Janet go, he gives her another light kiss, this time on the lips, bidding her goodnight. It was going to be a long night... but he had a duty to his patient and his friend.


A hint of a smile surfaces when Angelica mentions Reese's wife being pretty. She always had been in Reese's eyes.

Letting Angelica's words sink in, he ponders them, still sipping his coffee. Was she right? Was he really needed by anyone anymore? Wyatt didn't need him anymore... TJY, or at least with Austin in charge, didn't need him anymore. What about...

His thoughts stop as Angelica admits her biggest reasoning for being in Nevada. Quirking an eyebrow, warmth comes to his own cheeks as he focuses on his coffee, rather than her face, despite the strange want to catch her eye.

Quiet, he lets it go. There were many reasons for her to be here. She was a good lawyer that TJY needed.

But as she asks him if he'd like to accompany her to California, his head shoots up a little faster than intended. Looking over to her in the dim living room light, he wondered for a moment why on earth she'd be asking him. But looking deeper... studying her gaze for just a moment, he sees something that he recognizes... something that he's felt too, for longer than he'd like to admit. Loneliness... and a longing to just have someone there again.

Pursing his lips, he ambles away from the wall of pictures, then downs the rest of his coffee. "Despite my position here, I've got to stick around in case anything else happens. I need to be here if Austin tries to pull any more stunts... even if I'm not employed by TJY at the moment, I still feel the people there are my responsibility as my friends at least. I can't leave... not now."

Realizing he'd been just a little less than warm, he turns around, forcing a small smile. "Thanks, though. One of these days I'll need a vacation to straighten out my mind, but right now... I just can't."

Going to the kitchen to put his mug in the sink, he inwardly cringes. He could have done that a little better. I wasn't that he didn't want to go.... Wait... he wanted to? He swallows hard and tries to push the feelings aside. He was being silly. This wasn't a big deal and he shouldn't make it one.

Returning to the living room, a hint of awkwardness is now laced along his body language and words, despite his effort not to let it show. "I guess it's getting late," he muses quietly. "I... suppose we both got long days ahead of us."

Pausing, the silence is suddenly too much, and Reese can feel the heat rising to his face again. It's as if all of a sudden he realizes that he had Angelica here with him in his house, and for reasons he's rather not think about, it sent a little flutter through his stomach.

Moving to the door, he unintentionally signals that maybe he was ready to be alone again. A lot had gone through his mind tonight, and even though he had enjoyed Angelica coming over... well, maybe he didn't even know what the "though" was. But he hadn't felt this kind of awkwardness in years, and he didn't know what to do with it.

Trip

Standing in the breakroom Janet hums a soft to herself as she warms up the food. Stoping for a moment thinking her hurd something Janet strains her ears. Most of the time she could pick up the smallest of noises. She had trained her ears to listen closely to all nosies so if she was ever watching Maggie and not in the same room she would know something was wrong. Listing closly she ears pick up the faint call of her name but there was a certin ergancy behind it.

Leaving the breakroom Janet makes her way back to the infermary quickly. Opening the door and seeing Rick and Scott on the ground she hurrys over to them

"What happend?"

Taking one of Scott's arms and putting it over her shoulder Janet trys to even out the deadweaght from Scott so they could lift him and get him back into the bed. A fear searges through her as she see the small cut on Scott's wrist.

Looking up at Rick the fear and pain is evadent in her eyes.

"Oh Rick...."

Continuing to stay next to Scott Janet gives the opertunity for Rick to clean Scott up.

Entering the house Angelica gives a little bit of a laugh. She wasnt even sure why she was here herself. Somehow she'd just found her way to the door. Maybe it was her worry that told her to come here, or the need for wanting to make her friend feel good she wasnt sure what one.

"I guess I just thought maybe you could use some company."

Giving a small smile Angelica makes the rest of the way inside laying her jacket over a chair that was in the hall way. Following Mike to the kitchen Angelica just takes in the new sights. Its not long when the coffee is ready and she is once again following him into the cozy kitchen. The talk of work was light and for once Angelica didnt mind it to much. Simply thinking about not having Mike art work was a sad thought.

Looking over the pictures Angelica enjoyed taking in the sights and hearing about each one. Learning a little bit more about Mike and his life even if it was a life of the past it was still what formed him into what he was now. Coming across a picture of Wyatt, Mike and a younger woman Angelica can only guess its his wife. Running a finger over the face for a moment she feels a tiny bit of her own sadness. What had she missed in life, having a family, her own kids...it was something that never even crossed her mind anymore. It was a dream long forgotten and now not dwelled on for to long because it was to late for her. But for some reason seeing that picture agian seemed to bring back feelings that Angelica herself wasnt even sure why but the sence of longing and the look of something missed lingered. Trying to shake the emotion Angelica smiles looking at Mike.

"She was very pretty Mike."

Moving on to some of the other picture Angelica continues to listen as Mike explains them. Taking a sip of her own Coffee she just thinks for a moment before saying anything. She was never good with stuff like this. She could hardly give her ownself addvice let lone her own. But if she spoke from the heart where could you go wrong.

"Its only the people who have lost sit of themself that think we arnt worth anything anymore. There is always someone who needs us out there still. Sometimes the world can seem dark, but there is always one person out there who wants us still. I'm gonna miss having you at TJY. Your probley one of the biggest reason's I moved and decied to work there."

Taking another sip of her coffee Angelica looks back to the photos feeling the color coming to her cheeks just a little. She hadnt ment that quite the way it came out, but it did and she couldnt keep it back. Maybe she said a little more that was on her heart than she wanted to. But there was something alse she wanted to ask to. Was not the time or should she wait.

Continplating for a moment Angelica argues with her ownself on asking or not. Was it over steping bounds to even ask or not. The question hung in the air. Finally giving in she figures now would be the best as any time.

"Mike, I was wondering I'm going to be leaving for Cali in a few days. I have some cases out there that need my attachen. There is also a business partyvI need to attend for one of my cliants. I'll probley be gone for a week or two and well I was wondering if many you would like to come along with me. It would be nice to have someone to acompany me to the party not to mention I would like to introduce you to the rest of my family, and show you around."

Looking down at her coffee cup for a moment the silence linger and it makes Angelica panic for a moment continuing on.

"If you dont want to come its ok I wont be offended or anything. I mean the party will probley be boring and well Cali is pretty busy compaired to this...but...well..ya its ok if you dont wanna go."

For some reason Angelica felt like she was 17 again in high school asking someone to a dance. How silly she felt to be making a big deal out of this. It really wasnt that major.

Giving a nod to Axel Jess promise not to let anyone alse know. Seeing Axel got into his apartment on Jess gives a small wave and pulls away. The night events and that chat with Axel having relaxed her a bit. As Jess continues to drive her eyes grow heavy as Jess knows the exsaustion was setting in.

Finally come down her own street Jess pulls into the parking lot and shut off her car. Just sitting there for a moment, feeling tired but not really wanting to go inside she knows she has to. Exiting the car and making her way inside Jess dosnt even bother to change as she lays down on the bed and pass out.

Awake in her own room Katie's mind trys to relax. The last few days had been hard full of events that made the body and mind tired. Reacing under her bed Katie pulls out her photo book. Opening it and fliping through the pages She remember her Aunts wedding and how pretty it was. Coming acorss the picture of herself and Scott a feeling of sadness comes over her. Not for what was lost but for who was lost. How Katie hoped Scott would find himself again. He'd ment so much to her.

Continuing to flip through the pages Kaite's eyes scan the pictures of the ranch. Felling an emotion from Jason one that he felt as though he missed something Katie could only image.

I miss home somtimes too J.

Continuing to look through the pictures Katie lets out a small sigh. How life could take so many twists and turns, never seeming to give a break. One could only hope a turn in the tide would come, and soon the hard times would lesson. If only for a few moments, at least there would be a break in the tide.

Lots of years...

Rick heaves a tired but contented sigh as he feels his wife's touch, enjoying the times that she could come to see him at work. Straightening as she leaves to warm up his late supper, the infirmary grows quiet again, and he turns back to his work, wanting to finish up a few things before he ate.

But no sooner had he started, and a groan from Scott's bed makes Rick turn around to check on his patient. Going over to him, he finds that Scott is drenched in sweat, apparently having been dreaming without Rick knowing it.

He sits on the edge of the bed and gently lays a hand on Scott's shoulder, now as his young friend starts to fight against his blankets, mumbling incoherently. "Scott.... come on, wake up. You're dreaming again... Scott..."

Scott's mind is totally enveloped in the nightmare that was attacking. It was so vivid. So real. So full of scenes that had been true, that reality was skewed. "No," he mumbles. "No, don't... she didn't.... No..... I won't... Stop it!"

"Scott." Rick grasps Scott's shoulder more firmly, his voice louder. "Wake up, Scott."

Suddenly, Scott sits up so fast that his own head whacks Rick in the face. Caught off balance, Rick slides off the bed to the floor, putting a hand to the side of his face, slightly dazed. Before he can react, Scott has risen from the bed as well, tripping over Rick's legs.

He stumbles forward, the look in his eye to make one question whether he was still asleep or awake. Grabbing the counter for support, his hand knocks into a tray of tools, sending them flying onto the floor. Looking down, at his feet he spies a scalpel.

Rick's eyes widen as he sees Scott bend down and pick it up. "Scott... what are you doing?"

Scott doesn't seem to hear him, just staring at the lethal knife in his hand. He looks to Rick, then to himself, the fear and ultimate confusion written on his face.

Rick scrambles to his feet to quickly make it to his friend, but Scott has turned on him, a threat flashing in his eyes.

"Scott..." Rick holds his hands to the side, trying to remain calm. "It's okay. Put the knife down, alright? You're at TJY... you're safe. It's me... Rick... Come on... put it down." A prayer is immediately in the back of his mind.

Scott looks down to eye the tool that had become a weapon, slowly turning it in his palm so the blade was towards himself instead.

A chill runs down Rick's spine. "Put it down," he warns again firmly. "It's over. You're safe. They can't hurt you anymore."

The next instant is a blur. Scott's aim to his own wrist is precise, but Rick's reflexes are faster. Almost too quick to even comprehend what just happened, Rick has Scott from behind, his arms wrapped around him in a firm hold.

Scott's own arms are locked to his sides, the scalpel now back on the floor. He fights against the restraint, kicking at Rick's legs and trying to break free. "No!" he screams. "Let me go!"

"Scott, calm down!" Rick is determined not to let go, but struggles, despite Scott's lack of physical strength.

Scott continues to resist, the sweat still pouring down his face, his eye bloodshot, his breathing growing shallower. Another scream surfaces. "No!" Throwing his weight back, he knocks both himself and Rick off balance.

Rick tumbles back into the counter, but holds his grip. Desperate, he takes a chance and lets go with one arm. Grasping at Scott's flailing body, his other hand reaches behind him on the counter where he knew the syringe was sitting. He'd almost put it away earlier, thinking he wouldn't need it, but now was glad he hadn't.

Though being tossed around, and smacked with Scott's now-free arm, he tries to prep the needle carefully, still having on arm wrapped around Scott's thin frame.

In an instant, the shot has been given, and the affect is almost immediate. Scott's pulse is racing, but he gradually starts to slow down, his words becoming slurred. Blinking, he tries to keep the room in focus, but everything goes black.

Rick grasps Scott's limp body, but his own knees have grown weak, and he simply slides to the floor. Leaned back against the counter, he tries to catch his breath, only now realizing that his arm hurt. Glancing down, he sees a tear in his lab coat near his shoulder, and blood had seeped through. Apparently the scalpel had gotten him before it had been dropped.

They syringe still in his hand, he just sits, exhausted from the short but intense struggle. He wouldn't be going home tonight. More than likely, Scott would wake up later not to even remember his episode, but Rick wasn't about to leave him alone... not after this.

"Janet?" He calls out to his wife, knowing he needed help to get Scott back over to the bed, then to patch up his small wound. He wipes the sweat from his brow, his adrenaline making his hands shake slightly. "Janet?" The door had been closed - she may not have even heard a thing from the break room.


Reese can’t help a quiet chuckle at Angelica’s question about answering the door. “Only when somebody sneaks up on me.”

Stepping further to the side, he opens the door wider. “Come on in.” Going in behind her, he reaches to the side to find the switch, turning on the kitchen light to the right, and the living room light several feet ahead.

“You didn’t tell me what you were doing in this neck of the woods,” Reese comments as he moves to make coffee. Suddenly he realizes that Angelica has never been here before, and he turns around quickly. “Throw your jacket wherever. Make yourself at home.” Though he’s making an effort to act normal, he can’t hide the weariness in his voice. Any other day, he might find himself all thumbs, or worried about things not being straightened up enough while Angelica was there... but tonight he was too tired to think about it.

Turning back to the coffee maker, he finishes up the task, and soon the aroma is drifting in the air, waking the senses. And not long after, Reese has shown Angelica to the living room, somehow winding up near the far wall, staring at photos that had been hung. Talk had been light… even for two so devoted to work, that subject had somehow seemed too heavy tonight. And though both knew that much was being unsaid about Angelica’s surprise visit, neither felt the need to discuss the why of it. It just didn’t seem to matter.

“…and here’s Wyatt with some of his cousins.” Reese points to one of the framed pictures, his coffee mug in hand. His eyes drift over the family pictures. They were windows to the past… the only tangible representation of what his life perhaps was like before, with his wife and son.

“And graduation…” He can’t help the feeling of pride for that picture of Wyatt.

Giving a little sigh, he shakes his head. “Lots of years gone by, Angelica. Lots of years. You work so hard to build something up… put all your passion into a single mission… all to one day be told that you’re not needed… that you’re not wanted anymore.”

He taps a finger on his coffee mug, then takes a swig before his voice reveals too much emotion. Today had been harder than he’d like to admit.


Axel gives Jess a sidelong glance, catching her eye. "Rainbows are always there... it just takes the right angle to see them."

Glancing out the window to the side of the auto shop, he sighs. He needed to get inside and figure out how to keep himself from doing this again. In the meantime, his embarrassment had lessened some, but was still there.

"Keep this thing between us?" He turns his head to look at Jess again. "The other guys would be all over me if they knew."

Giving Jess a little smile, he moves to rest his hand on the door handle. "Thanks again, and..." He hesitates, wondering if maybe he shouldn't say anything at all, but he finally does. "...dont' be too hurt. Carson didn't keep you in the dark on purpose."

Getting out of the car, the chilly wind hits him again, making him shiver. Leaning down, he looks back at Jess. "Stay here a minute... I'm not sure if I locked myself out or not."

Walking gingerly to the steps, he's up them in a flash, his barefeet burning against the cold steps. Reaching the door, he finds it open. Relieved, he turns around and gives Jess a little wave to let her know she could leave. And in a moment, he's disappeared inside.


A scream pierces the night, the shrill sound bouncing off the walls and waking Carson with such violence that he sits bolt upright and is on his feet in an instant. Woken from a deep sleep, he just stands for a moment, wondering if what he'd heard had been real, or a part of a dream.

Opening the bedroom door, he peers out into the hall. Nothing. Glancing to the left he sees the bathroom light on under the door. "Dani?" he calls quietly. No answer.

The hairs on the back of his neck stand up, and he pads down to the bathroom, stopping himself just before he opened the door. His sister wasn't exactly a little girl anymore. "Dani?" he asks again, tapping a knuckle on the door. "Are you..."

The door suddenly flies open, a wide-eyed Dani staring back at him. But it wasn't a look of fear on her face... it was more a look of pure irritation. "Carson Gabriel!"

Carson's own eyes widen and he backs up a step. "What? What did I do?"

Dani is breathing heavily and sets her hands on her hips as she looks up at her brother. "Remember I told you there was no need to set rules here while you lived with me?"

"Um... yeah?"

"I changed my mind."

Carson blinks. He'd heard her scream. He'd thought something was wrong. What on earth had he done?

Dani continues to glare at him. "Let me make one thing perfectly clear." Her voice raises as she speaks. "When you're done in here, put the toilet seat down!"

Carson's hand automatically goes to his mouth, covering up what might have become a smile that so desperately wanted to emerge. He looks down at Dani's frantic state, the mental images almost too much to keep the laughter at bay. "Um... yes... okay... I think I can do that." He nods, still keeping his mouth hidden. Unfortunately, his eyes give him away.

Dani's own eyes narrow. "It's not funny," she mutters.

"Just a little?"

"No!"

"Did you fall in?"

"Carson!" Dani sends a light fist into his chest. "You have no idea what it's like to get up in the dead of night to an experience like that! It's... it's..."

"Quite traumatic, apparently." Carson nods, lowering his arm to block another weak punch. But as he does, he chokes on a laugh. "At least I didn't need to come pull you out."

"You..." Dani glares at him, pointing her finger for emphasis. But at this point, even she can't deny that what had happened really was quite funny. She tries not to let her smile slip, but somehow it does, curling the edge of her mouth. "You are... are...."

"Very sorry." Carson coughs to cover up his own laugh. "You gonna stay mad at me forever?"

Dani bites her lip, then looks down, her shoulders starting to shake as her laughter finally bubbles over.

Carson bends over a little and reaches under her chin to lift it up, making sure she was laughing and not having a fit. Finding she was, he lets his own laughter slip as well.

Feeling like a total idiot, Dani leans back against the wall, holding her sides as they start to ache.

"Breathe," Carson advises between his own laughing. "I can't lose you now. Not after your heroic survival instincts saving you from the perils of the life-threatening drain."

All his words do is serve to increase Dani's laughter until both of them are laughing so hard, they wind up sitting on the floor making complete fools out of themselves.

Dani shakes her head. "I wasn't even awake," she manages as a tear rolls down her face. "I tell you what though... I sure woke up fast."

Both are sent into another fit of laughter until finally they're too worn out to keep on going. Just staring at each other, they try to catch their breath.

"Well..." Dani nods with satisfaction. "That was fun."

"Shall we do it again?"

"No!" Dani giggles. "It better not happen again."


Jason leans back further into his couch, the sound of the tv not really penetrating his consciousness. His mind was elsewhere...on too many different things. Though the day had been quiet, so much he knew was going on around them. So much he knew himself and Katie were not involved in, but would be. Being away from TJY, contact with Rick had informed them of surface issues, but the depth really wasn't known.

The news of Scott possibly getting help was a relief. That much was good. But news of Reese's termination had sent hopes plummeting again. Jason couldn't believe what Austin was doing. He partially blamed himself for Reese's predicament. More than likely it stemmed from the investigation that he and Katie had started, however Brown hadn't stated it that way exactly when he'd called Jason to tell him Austin had been formally warned.

That in itself was good to know. At least Austin knew that people were watching and did have the power to punish if he continued to bend the rules. At the same time though, had it simply made things worse? He wondered.

Jason and Katie had talked some, but not a whole lot. Not much could really be said. They didn't have any plan of action... nothing really to do. All they could do was wait out the remainder of their two week suspension and keep tabs on what was happening so they wouldn't be in for too many surprises when they got back.

And though not keeping his emotions completely to himself, Jason did keep some of his thoughts in his own mind. He needed to mull them over... chew on them for a while before allowing them to be pulled into the emotional stream that flowed in Katie's direction.

Getting up and going to the window, he looks out on the lit street. The sky was dark, but the stars were hidden by city lights. A part of him missed Texas, where he'd been able to see for miles, countless stars shining from horizon to horizon. There had been a feeling of freedom there... a freedom he used to feel here, but no longer did.

Sighing, he leans an arm on the window frame, hooking a hand in his pocket. Scott. His mind continued to revert to his friend. His friend... funny how that sounded now. Jason could still remember when he'd been so angry... so very angry that Scott had rather stolen Katie from him. At that point, he never would have believed that later they would make up after that. But Scott's heart was so big... his forgiveness so genuine... his love so deep. So deep for Katie that he had later given her up with more grace than Jason had ever seen. And he had held no malice towards Jason...only an open door of friendship.

"So why does someone like that have to go through this?" Jason's whisper makes a little patch of fog on the cold window.

Glancing up to the blank sky, he remembers the thoughts that had gone through his mind during the mission to rescue Scott. He'd made no promises - that much he knew. But he had said he would look into a few things if they found him alive. As of yet, he had not fulfilled that commitment.

Looking over his shoulder for a moment, he spies the little Bible his mother had slipped into his bag on his last visit to Texas. He hadn't been surprised. She'd been trying to get him back into the whole God thing for years. He remembered going to church as a kid. But after everything had fallen apart, he hadn't wanted to be around people. Despite his ability to mask what he had been feeling, he hadn't wanted to deal with any of that, and had fought strong enough that his mother had finally given up, as had Austin.

But now... Jason had made the mistake of telling God he'd check some things out and consider the whole thing again if they could get Scott home safe. ...Home safe?

Jason looks back outside, his eyes narrowing as a slow anger churns. "You call this home safe?" he speaks aloud. "Why did you even let us find him if this was going to happen? Wouldn't it have been better just to let him die in peace than have this mental torment? It'll take a miracle for him to pull through. And for what? So he can always carry this around with him?"

He shakes his head in disgust, but suddenly his own words are flung back in his face. 'It'll take a miracle.' And who was the One who made miracles happen?

He smirks. "Touché." Sighing, he leans his head against the window frame. "You were pretty important to Scott, weren't you? He never did back down from that. Even after we thought he'd died, he was still strong... still trying to get me to see it anyway."

Pulling out old memories, Jason realizes he remembered more about what he'd been taught than he thought. He had just never bothered to think about it. He'd never wanted to. But in this quiet moment of reflection, he recalled his mother's voice, quoting scriptures... them praying before meals... watching his mother have her quiet time in the mornings when she thought he was still in bed.

"Father..." Jason knew people referred to God as their Father in Heaven and Christians claimed to be like His children. "What do I need another father for?" he almost scoffs. "I got a dad who never even knew I existed, and even if he did he probably wouldn't care. I got a grandfather who's a jerk and betrayed all the trust I ever had in him. My great-grandfather has never even pretended like he cared about me. So what would I want with another Father?"

Suddenly Jason sees in his mind, a note stuck to the refrigerator door in the house he'd grown up in. It was on his mother's favorite lilac paper, her handwriting so neat. "He will never leave you nor forsake you."

He can't help rolling his eyes slightly and focusing upward again. "Thanks a lot. You're not helping my case much, you realize this."

At the very least, he'd said he would maybe read a Bible and at least consider his options. Tonight was a night he couldn't sleep anyway. And in the end, whether he actually believed all this or not, it might be handy to know a little bit more about what drove Scott, and what kept Katie's faith alive too. She never had pushed him... never had tried to get him to go to church with her... but it was that quietness that had piqued his interest more than once. He'd seen a change in her since she'd started calling herself a Christian, even if he'd never said anything about it. Maybe it wouldn't be a bad idea to at least get a handle on where she was coming from... and why Scott thought it was so important for him to know this stuff too.

Sighing, Jason pushes away from the window and goes to flop back down on the couch again, reaching down to pick up the Bible. "Alright, you won this round. But don't expect me to get all religious here."

Finds a way...

Janet runs a hand through Rick's hair as he rests his head aganst her. She new he was stressed and he just wanted to help his young friend. So often though Rick never said it Janet new he took so much on his shoulder scaired that if he was to fail all would be lost. And though some battles where lost Janet loved Rick just the same.

Tilting her head a bit Janet looks into Ricks eye's and gives him a soft smile as she runs a hand along the side of his face. Janet'e heart gives a little flutter as she gazed into Ricks eyes till finally she pulls away just a little. Taking the bag from the table she turns to head to the door calling over her shoulder.

"Let me go warm this up for you fast. I'll be right back."

Disapreaing out of the infermary Janet heads down the hall to the break room.

About to turn back around once again and finish her path to the car Angelica hears the front door lick and open just a little. Not seeing anyone in the dark her heart races just a little thinking the worst. Steping up a step on the pourch the door opens more and finally Angelica can make out Ricks form as his gun uncocks relizing she shaired him as much as he did her.

"You always answer you door gun drawn?"

Angelica cant help the smile that spread across her face. Oh how coffee sounded right about now as well. Making her way back up the steps Angelica gives Rick a once over as he is dressed and cant help but feel the heat rise in her cheeks as she addmited to herself he looks good.

"Coffee sounds great."

Feeling a big of shock over finding out Carson moved in with his sister Jess trys not to let it show. But still she couldnt help the feeling of a sting just a little bit. Carson and herself were trying to be friends why wouldnt he at least mention to her he was moving so she didnt worry or if he needed him. Trying to push the feeling she wasnt sure she should be having or not away Jess put on less than a real smile.

"Well...I guess that would explain why he wasnt at Mom and Pop's huh?!"

Stairing out the window for a long moment a strange feeling bubbles in Jess stomch. One would guess maybe it was heart ack, but to Jess she had never really felt this before and didnt know if thats what it was or not.

Finally pulling into a small space outside the auto shop Jess lets the rest of what Axel has said sink in. How strong his words always were and how they offered hope. Maybe they were true, maybe not but they always braught a smile to Jess face.

"Even in the dark, when it feels all hope is lost that Rainbow finds its way through giving the light a reminder why it should shine more. But than not all good things can last and the Rainbow has to leave. But a promise remains that it will be seen again another day."

Turning her head a little Jess gives a smile to Axel. In a matter of moments she felt so comfortable with him. Like he was her best friend she had known for years.

Arrest

Looking up from his desk, a smile spreads on Rick's face as he sees Janet. "Hey, you." Seeing the supper, his eyes light up. "Mm... you're too good to me, you know that?"

Reaching up, he takes her hand in his, leaning his head against her for a moment, and giving a sigh, showing he was weary, but knowing he couldn't leave just yet.

Turning at Janet's question, he looks at Scott for a moment and shakes his head. "Not good."

Even though Scott is sleeping, Rick keeps his tone quiet. "I hope this counselor can help him... he's just getting worse. Each day goes by, I can just see everything building up inside of him. I would have thought in the beginning he was going to be okay... but watching him digress... then after what happened with Austin... I don't know, Janet... I just don't know."


Reese looks up, suddenly realizing that there had been a knock at the door. Setting down the picture frame, he rises from his easy chair, stopping and listening again. Hearing nothing, and having not heard a car, his caution is heightened. Feeling safe without any interior lights on, he moves toward the door, reaching to his back to pull out his handgun. Holding it up in front of him, he cocks it, then reaches for the doorknob.

Cracking the door, he sees nothing. It’s dark outside, and his porch light had blown out last week. Slowly opening the door further, he can finally see the sidewalk. Suddenly realizing just who it was who was there, he immediately uncocks his gun and blinks, just looking at her for a moment.

Finally a sheepish grin surfaces, and he leans up against the doorframe, looking out at her. And for once, he just lets silence be for several moments. He didn’t need to ask why she was there. If it had been an emergency, she would have tried harder to get his attention than just knocking on the door once or twice.

Not even thinking about the fact that Angelica didn’t normally see him this way, in old jeans and a t-shirt, he steps from the door, putting his gun to his back again. “Awful late for you to be out here roaming the neighborhood.”

He cocks his head. “Coffee?”


Axel swallows his own embarrassment for his predicament, settling back to just let Jess talk for a few minutes. He wasn't sure why she was sharing with him... what might have prompted her to trust him with that information... but something about it made him feel good. Part of it hit him hard though. He'd talked to Carson once recently about her, and he knew what had happened with her and Peter. Those kinds of things never had set well with him, and even though he didn't know Jess all that well, he could feel the pain.

He lets the pause linger for several moments, just trying to get warm, while letting Jess' words sink in. Looking down, he realizes one of his hands is closer to her than intended, and he withdraws a little, shifting his weight towards his own door.

"Carson moved in with his sister today," he mentions casually. "He's probably at her place."

Glancing over to her again, he cocks his head, reverting back to her more serious words. "Sometimes traumatic events are the rainclouds in our lives. But...without the rain, rainbows wouldn't exist."

He looks back out the windshield, seeing they were fast approaching the auto shop. "The rain may seem to stick with you, but let your light shine through. The result will be the rainbow you need to brighten that corner of your life."


...Across town, shouts echo through the street, and a shot rings out. Sirens wail, on call for the little quick mart at the edge of town. Surrender was necessary and intentional. The local jail was next on the list.

Getting lost

Walking slowly back to her desk Misty sits down to try and finish what she was doing. Looking up every once in a while at Scott. She felt so helpless. She was ment to help people, but Scott she couldnt help at all. Letting out a heavy sigh Mitsy only hopes that this new councler will be able to help Scott.

Finsihing up with what she was working on Misty stratens up her desk laying a few paper out for the morning. Grabing her jacket Misty slowly makes her way over to Rick's desk. In a low voice she gives a small smile.

"I'm heading out Rick. If you need anything let me know. If not sooner I'll see you tomarrow."

Turning Misty makes her way out of the infermary and acorss the main floor making her way to the door. Letting out a sigh Misty can feel the tention in the air every though no one was there. Usaly when she staryed late on her way out Ty would always greet her and now, no matter how late she stayed she new he wouldnt be there. Continuing her way out Misty trys to keep her head up tomarrow would be another day and maybe it help more promise than this one.

As one figure exits the TJY building another enters going unnoticed. This figure came with the purpis of comfort a small package comfortable tucked under there arm.

Making there way across the TJY floor they new the lay out well and exacly where to go even though they had only been there once or twice. Coming to the infermany door a small knock is hurd to let anyone inside know there was another presence around.

Entering Janet gives a smile to her husband who was sitting at his desk.

"Hey you."

Coming closer Janet lays the package on the desk and leans down to give Rick a kiss on the forhead. Her heart over joyed in seeing him.

" Nate was home early today and I figured you would be home late. I also new you would be upset if you new you missed my fryed chicken so I figured I would bring you some. Not to mention maybe the company would be nice."

Giving another smile Janet looks over at Scott sleeping form on the bed.

"How is he?"

Standing a few moments on Mike's front pourch Angelica hesatates to knock. It was late, what if he was sleeping, what if she was bother him. As Angelica stands there her sister voice pops into her head. "If you can about someone it dosnt matter that time you see them. Making sure they are ok, and seeing if they need a shoulder could sometimes be the best think you could do." Giving a smile at the memorie of her sister words Angelica finally knocks. Maybe Reese did need a friend. She hadnt had a chanse to talk to him all day and she new this probley was hitting him hard. Work was his life, work was his passion. He was like her without work what was there.

Waiting a few more moments and no answer to the door Angelica turns. Maybe he was sleeping. Se would try again tomarrow. Slowly making her way down the steps Angelica stops for a moment looking back at the door one last time before leaving.

Turning the heat up slightly as Axel gets into the car Jess sets out again. Giving him smile and a small chuckle Jess jokes.

"I told you I would pay you back some how for fixing my car."

Continuing to drive Jess listen to Axel tell his story. She had hurd of sleep walking before but something about the look Jess caught in his eyes every once in a while and the tone of his voice told her there was something more. Something much deeper that was not being told.

"I think you should put some child proof locks on your door."

Seeing and being able to tell Axel was up tight about this whole thing Jess trys to make a joke though she new she failed at it being funny. Continuing to drive down the darkend road Jess is silent for a little bit till now Axel had told his reason maybe it was hers now.

"Sometimes when I close my eyes I can still feel the pain, and smell the smells. From what I have read that might live with me for the rest of my life. When you go through sometimes tramatic it just hangs on ready to show its head again at anymoment. "

Letting out a sigh Jess trys to keep her emotions intact. It was hard talking about it still but in the end sometimes it made her feel better.

"Some nights are better than others, tonight was not a good night. I tossed and turned and freaked my ownself out till I just didnt want to be home alone anymore. I had left to see if Carson was still up maybe talk to him for a little bit but when I got to Mom and Pop's he wasnt there. So I figured just driving was the only option I had. "

Leaning over Jess turns the music on the raido down remembering it was so loud.

"Getting lost in music sometimes it a nice way to get away from troubles too."

Letting out a sight again Jess lets the silenct linger as her own thoughts now run through her mind.

Embarrassment

Scott flinches away from Misty's hand, then realizing it was just her, he tries to relax. Still shaking and gasping for breath, he tries to regain control, though feeling totally out of control.

Finally calm enough to sit up straighter, he pulls his knees up to his chest and rests his chin on them, glancing up at Misty. "Sorry," he manages quietly. Swallowing hard, he tries to forget about the dream, but he can't. It was one thing to wake up screaming and be scared of his own shadow. It was another to realize it and be unable to stop it. He knew no one here held anything against him, but it didn't seem to matter... he still felt foolish and embarrassed.

"I just keep seeing it over and over," he whispers. "They killed her... right there. And I couldn't do anything. I was...too weak."

Closing his eyes, Scott slowly lies back down, turning on his side again. If he could go back... oh, if he could go back... what he wouldn't give.

Rick reenters the infirmary, and seeing Misty at Scott's bed, he instinctively knows that something had changed. Coming over slowly, he sees the far away look in Scott's eye, and knows he must have had another nightmare.

Sighing, he relieves Misty, then gives Scott something to help him sleep. Rick didn't like giving him any more medications, but if it would help him sleep more calmly, for now, it was worth it.


Reese listens to his voicemail, then sighs deeply, setting his phone back down again. He sat alone in his dark living room, the television long since being shut off.

He'd been so strong all day... trying not to let circumstances bother him... trying to see the logic and make decisions based on that logic rather than emotions. But in the end... he was hurting as much as the next Elite agent. Austin had been a friend... now he was an enemy, and Reese didn't even understand why.

Though Brown had tried to offer hope, Reese just wasn't sure what all really was going to happen, or really what all could be done. Only time would tell.

Reaching to the side, his fingers find the cool picture frame, and he brings it so he can see it, able to make out the photo in the moonlight streaming in through the window. Wyatt's boyish eyes twinkle with mischief, and Reese's wife waves at the camera.

"What am I to do now?" he whispers in the dark. "This was my life's work..."


Axel looks up to squint into the headlights, holding up a hand to block the glare.

Invited to a ride, he hesitates just a moment. First, what on earth was Jess doing out here? And second, he wasn’t exactly in a position that he appreciated being seen in.

At the same time though, it would be stupid to turn down a ride. He really was cold, and he did trust Jess.

Pursing his lips in thought, he finally opts to accept. Getting up to open the door, then sliding in the passenger seat, he feels relief from the warmth of being out of the elements. Rubbing his hands a little, he draws his knees together and curls his feet under the seat, trying to get them to warm back up again.

“I think your rainbow was starting to turn to ice crystals,” he muses wryly.

As they start forward, a dry laugh escapes and he shakes his head, giving a little groan. “I, um…I have this thing about walking barefoot in the middle of the night… wandering streets for the fun of it.” He winces and leans down to rub the bottom of one foot. “Picking up glass with my feet.”

Straightening, he leans back in the seat, closing his eyes for a moment. He knew Jess wouldn’t ask, but he should tell her anyway before any assumptions arose. He knew the danger in that. At the same time, his hesitance was born of the embarrassment of being found in this vulnerable position. It wasn’t one he particularly enjoyed.

“I almost stepped out of a moving tour buss once. If it wasn’t for Taylor, I would have. She ended up with a black eye, but saved my life that time.”

Opening his eyes again, he turns his head to look at Jess for a moment. “Some hobby, eh?” He smirks. “They call it sleepwalking. I call it a misfire in my brain.”

Pausing again, he sighs, running a hand through his hair. “Unfortunately, a set of wrenches can’t fix this problem. Been a while since I’ve wound up out in the middle of nowhere though… I thought maybe I’d finally gotten rid of it.”

He shakes his head again. “Thanks for stopping, Jess. Your timing is impeccable.”

Rain Cloud

Giving a nod Dalton turns to head out of the office not saying another word. Though passing Susanne's office something not often seen forms on his lips a slight smile. He came he did what he needed to and now he would have an assistent.

Heading back to Scott and his office He continues his day keeping the good news in the back of his mind to tell Scott when he saw him next.

Once again the day plays on like an old song. The people come, and people go some spending more time than they need but getting lost in work can sometimes do that.

Hearing Scott's outburst Misty's head shoots up from what she was doing as she is on her feet fast making her way over to Scott. Laying a soft hand on his arm Misty trys to keep her voice soft.

"Shhh...its ok Scott. It was only a dream. Your at TJY your safe."

Sitting with Scott Misty just lets him know she is there. What alse could she do..Rick would be back in a moment and would know what to do more than she would. Right now all she could do was show comfort to him and let him know he was ok.

Giving a sigh Nate holds his phone in his hand. It was late but he wanted to call Reese and let him know about what happend today anyways. He was upset about it and just needed to get it off his chest before he did anything he regreted. Dialing Reese number Nate waits, hearing the voice mail pick up it didnt saprise him.

"Reese its Nate. I just needed to talk to someone even if it was you voice mail. Reese...Ty got fired. I dont think Austin new I over heard but I was heading down stairs to look at some old files and I hurd them. He forced him to quit so he didnt have to fire him. Something about since he couldnt read maybe he would be better alse where. I was so upset I just wanted to knock him out right there. But I held back and no one knows I know. I just needed to tell someone. I guess I'll let you go now Reese you need anything let me know."

Hanging up the phone a sadness looms in Nates eyes, what was happing. Finally letting out a heavy sigh Nate makes his way inside to settle in for the night.

Tapping her fingers to the beat on the radio Jess drives down the road. It was the middle of the night but she couldnt sleep. Her mind raced with some many things. Jess had gone to see Carson tonight but she found Mom and Pop's empty so a drive alone was what she had to settle for.

The events of the last few days weaghing heavy on her mind Jess wasnt sure what one to preocess first. Just everything seemed to come up at once it was hard to make sence of anything.

Pulling down another street a single lamp post lights up a bench where a familure figure sits on the bench. No shoes, and no jacket Jess could tell the person was cold. She didnt make a habbit of picking up people from the side of the road in the middle of the night but this was differnt. Axel was a long way from home and freezing half to death. This time she could make an exception.

Pulling along on the side of the road Jess rolls down the window and calls out.

"It looks like the rainbow could use a rain cloude to ride on for a while before it freezes to death. Hope in Axel and let me take you home. Its to cold for you to be out here like this."

Jess offers a smile as she watchs him not sure what he will do or say. Her own questions lingering in her eye but they could wait her friends health was more important.

Confusion

As Nate speaks, Reese purses his lips in a partial smile, wishing these were different circumstances, but appreciating Nate's words more than most knew. It wasn't easy leading the group at TJY... but allowed that position, Reese had always done his best and cared about those who were under him.

Brown nods slowly, not surprised by Nate's statement, and glad that he seemed to be loyal to both the Elite and the leadership.

"Well..." He looks back to Reese. "I think we know where Nate stands, and... if my hunch is right, I think everybody else would feel the same way."

"Probably." Reese doesn't want to be proud, but knows it's the truth. "I honestly don't know which steps to take though. My first thought is to go in guns blazing and fight this thing. I want to get written statements from all the agents to prove we are in agreement, then go to a judge and have Austin's position threatened at the very least - removed at the most. That's what I want. But..."

He pauses, suddenly deep in thought. "What if we sit back and watch?"

Brown cocks his head. "You'll be out of a job."

"I can survive for a little while. I'd like to figure out what Austin's angle is... why he's doing these things. It's not the Austin I used to know... or at least thought I knew. I guess part of me wants to sit back and see how far he'll go."

"Give him enough rope to hang himself, in other words."

"Basically."

"What about other employees? They'll suffer in the meantime."

Reese thinks for a moment. "If Austin fires anyone else... perhaps those people can be consulted on the side, after they've left. I'm willing to compensate for their pay until we figure this out."

"And... you'd have them hired back?"

"Could I?"

Brown shrugs. "Depends on the situation. There again, it's going to be a matter of regulations versus popular vote, versus the law. If the staff lets him, Austin can stick around forever. If they're willing to make a stand, then they can get rid of him. But... like you said... you want to figure out what his motives are, and getting rid of him now won't do that."

Reese sighs deeply and glances at Nate. "I don't know... I just don't know."

"What if you were put in charge of the Elite?" Brown asks.

Reese lifts his eyebrows a little. "You mean be the head instead of Austin?"

"Yes."

Reese swallows hard. He'd been running things whenever Austin had been gone, but had always been under his direction or Carter's. Was he capable of running things himself? He knew the staff was loyal to him... he'd always been the one to give orders anyway, that filtered down from the top, and generally speaking, he'd never had trouble. A few arguments here and there, but nothing too major. Was he capable of being chief?

"I'd... like to think I could be."

Brown nods again, his eyes showing how deep he was in thought. "Well, I tell you... that the Elite is so new and unique is an advantage and a disadvantage at the same time. If you want to lay low and see how things progress, it's fine with me. Of course, then you run the risk that if you need to take legal actions later on, they're going to ask why you did nothing now."

"Yeah, I know... but... I just... something tells me that Austin is wanting to upset the staff."

"And you think if you play along, that will put a wrench in his plans?"

"Something like that. And... I'd like to take a copy of these regulations home if I may, just to refresh myself. I think there's been a lot of things going ignored."

"That's probably my fault," Brown admits. "I was so excited to get you guys started, that I just let you all go and kind of just run the way you always had, with just a few more restrictions. I should have had a few more sit-down meetings with at least you and Austin and Carter."

"Well, at the time, we were all glad we didn't have too much to worry about, other than getting everyone pardoned, and then staying within the law."

"I understand." Brown pushes the papers towards Reese. "Feel free. This is a copy already. In the meantime..." He looks to Nate. "Since you'll still be on the inside, I want you to keep your eyes and ears open. Try not to stir too many people up just yet, but don't let yourself get pushed around either. I'm sure once Jason and Katie get back to work, they'll be doing the same. And... just ride it out. See what happens."

He pauses, gaining the attention of both men. "No matter what happens... the Elite will stand. Austin can try all he wants to, but the Elite was something I've wanted for a long time, and I'm not going to let it fold. You might go through heck in the meantime, but I'll do all I can not to let you guys get down too far."

"We appreciate that."

Brown nods. "Alright then. I have a court date I'm late for, so you gentlemen take care and we'll all be patient and see how things go."

It seems too soon that both men are back to TJY, Reese going his own way, letting Nate go his. By now everyone was aware of Reese's termination, making packing up his office even more difficult to do. Even though there was hope in what Brown had said... even though Brown had promised they would be okay... Reese had a looming fear in the pit of his stomach that this would be much harder than that.


Rick takes the papers from Hope, grateful for her willingness to help. "Thank you... I can't tell you how much I appreciate this."

He pauses, feeling a little awkward, but put at ease by her soft nature. "I think I know which option Scott will choose, but I'll see what he says. Um... well... I guess that's it, then. I will talk to him later today and I'll be in touch."

Rick offers Hope a strong handshake before making his way back to the door. Turning one more time, he studies her for just a moment. "I don't know you from anybody else, Miss Garrison, but... I can tell you're doing good work here. Thank you."

Giving a little nod, he exits, nodding to the receptionist as well on his way out. The ride back to TJY has him busy with thoughts of his own, wandering to the subject of Scott and Hope, then back again. He could only hope that Scott would recuperate. Most people in his case, Rick knew would never be the same again. Most people would eventually wind up in a mental institute. It would take a miracle for Scott, but... miracles happened every day.

Arriving back to TJY, he finds Scott still asleep, and is glad of it. Putting the counselor's papers away for now, he resumes his daily work.


Austin looks up from his desk as Dalton enters his office, and is ready to say something, but is cut off by the large man's spiel. Listening, Austin frowns and opens his mouth to argue, but can't get a word in. His frown increases, his eyes narrowing slightly at Dalton's cocky tone and body language. But just when he wants to say it's out of the question, he's shown the papers.

Glancing at them, he stares at the digits and words he didn't recognize. He was okay with computers, but this... it was way over his head. Turning the papers a little, he tries to make sense of them, then turns them back again, cocking his head slightly.

Irritated, he looks up at Dalton, "No" on the tip of his tongue. But looking at Dalton's eyes... seeing the determination... slight arrogance... lack of willingness to back down... Austin leans back in his chair instead, beginning a tense moment of silence.

Finally he tosses the pages back towards Dalton. "Fine." His tone is cold, despite his relenting. He was between a rock and a hard place, and he knew it. He could tell by Dalton's behavior that if he were to refuse, he might very well lose him, then he'd be without a tech guy at all.

"But I'm not supplying an office, and Scott's wages will reflect those of an assistant, not what he was making prior." Austin points a finger for emphasis. "So set up your office however you want. I'll inform Susanne to put him back on the payroll as soon as he's well enough to work. That is... if he's well enough to work again."

Austin lowers his gaze and grabs a pencil to work on some papers, signaling that Dalton was now dismissed.


Axel gives a light chuckle before grabbing the tow truck keys and opening the door for Jess. "Well... if the light can make it through all this..." He looks down at the grime on his hands that just wouldn't wash off. "...then I think we'll be doing well."

Getting outside, he hollers down to the open garage door. "Leo!"

"Yeah?" Leo sticks his head out from under the car he was working on, squinting out into the parking lot.

"Going to lunch. Hold the fort!"

Leo grimaces and gives Axel a sloppy salute. "Yeah... leave me here all alone, while you go on a date. Sure makes a fellow feel good, ya know that?"

Axel sets his hands on his hips, smirking at his friend. "Leo... If I bring you back a sandwich, will you shut up?"

A cheesy grin surfaces on Leo's face. "Now you're talking." He waves a wrench towards Jess. "Make sure he sticks to his word, will you?" Laughing, he disappears under the car again.

Axel rolls his eyes and heads to the truck, ignoring the crack about going on a date. "Alright," he talks over his shoulder to Jess, "follow me in your car to see how it's running."

Hitting the same little cafe, the same table is taken up, the light noon meal enjoyed once more. Axel is quite most of the time, but joins in some small talk, grinning every now and then, studying Jess' eyes as she spoke, looking further... looking deeper.

Parting once more, Axel drives the truck back to the shop, glancing in the rearview mirror as he goes, to see Jess get in her car and leave in the opposite direction. Thinking a moment, he gives his head a little shake, then gets back to work.


The day is a slow one... while one leaves TJY to the sandess and some anger of others, some simply move on with the day, trying to ignore their circumstances. While still others try to move on from their thoughts that plague them...


It's late. Rick hasn't left work yet, and glances over his shoulder to Misty. Somehow those who worked in the infirmary always seemed to devote more time to work than required. But he didn't mind. Keeping an eye on Scott was his mission right now, and if it meant a late supper, so be it.

Moving around, he has to take some files to another office, and slips out of the infirmary. No sooner has he left, than Scott starts to stir. Sleeping throughout the day, he'd been quiet, but now he began to writhe in bed, throwing off his blankets, and starting to mumble to himself.

Gripping his pillow so hard that his knuckles turn white, he breaks out in a sweat, his cries growing louder. "No... no... No! Don't do it! No!"

His own scream shatters his dream and his eyes fly open as he sits bolt upright. Trembling, his eyes race around the room, trying to convince himself of where he was and that he was safe. The horrible images clung to his mind like leeches, sucking the life out of him.

Burying his face in his hands, he rocks back and forth, unsure of his surroundings... unsure of reality. A tear escapes, making him feel even weaker than he already did. He had nothing... he was nothing.


“Y…y… you? A…r….?” Ty struggles, squinting at the cursive writing on the paper. Print was bad enough. Cursive he hadn’t figured out yet at all.

Sighing, he tries again. He knew the letter was from his mother. She probably hadn’t been thinking when she wrote it this way, but Ty wasn’t about to say anything about it. It was still an embarrassment to him, and he didn’t want to make his mother feel badly either.

Trying again, he stays straddling the chair in the lower hall of TJY, taking his first break late in the evening.

“U"-"n"-"c"-"l"……"e?” Ty skips over a couple words then lists the curved letters on the page and tries to pronounce another word, but didn’t have much luck. Becky had drawn a smiley face after a couple of the sentences… apparently there was some sort of news here. But it might as well have been Egyptian hieroglyphics. He couldn’t understand a thing.

“Tyler?”

Ty jumps, startled to his feet as Austin comes down the hall. “Yes?”

“You look busy.”

“I was on my break,” Ty defends.

Austin quirks an eyebrow at the letter. “Always read your mail here?”

“It’s… well… I…” Ty folds up the paper. “It’s more private down here.”

Austin recognizes the address on the envelope. “From your family?”

Ty nods. “My mom… she writes me about every week.”

A small smile creases Austin’s lips, then disappears again. “Sorry, you looked a bit upset. Bad news?”

“No… I mean… I….” Ty swallows hard. “I don’t know.” His eyes fall downward.

Austin cocks his head. “What do you mean?”

Ty hesitates, then holds out the letter. “I don’t know,” he mumbles again.

Austin takes the letter from him and unfolds it, scanning the words. His eyes suddenly widen, a strange feeling evoked. Images of the past flash through his mind. Emotions… feelings for other people… strong feelings he’d forgotten… For a moment, he’s taken back nineteen years to a time of joy amidst the insane turmoil everyone had been going through.

Shaking off the nostalgia, he gives a light chuckle. “Well, says here you’re going to be an uncle.”

Ty’s eyes widen. “An uncle? But…” He shakes his head. “Who…”

“Your brother. Looks like he and Wendy will be getting married here soon too.”

“Whoa.” Ty blinks, processing the information. He didn’t have the prettiest past himself, but he’d never gone that far, and it surprised him that Clint would have. “That’s….”

“Yeah.” Austin hands the letter back to Ty. “Can’t read, huh?”

“No…” Ty takes the letter back and stuffs it back into the envelope. He’d tried how many times to learn? He’d tried with Katie… he’d tried with Wyatt… he’d even tried with Rick, though no one knew about it. And all it had resulted in was him eventually being able to read a few two and three-letter words.

Austin sighs and shakes his head. Though his voice remains quiet, there’s the same new serious tone about it that the staff of TJY now dreaded. “You know, Tyler… I’m sure you do a good job down here with Hal, but…”

Ty looks up quickly, a chill running down his spine. “But what?”

“Well, the Elite is formed by the best and…” Austin shrugs. “I’m sorry, but I think you could best be used elsewhere.”

Ty’s face pales. “Elsewhere as in…”

“As in somewhere other than the Elite.”

“Are… are you firing me?”

“I’m suggesting you leave so I don’t have to.”

Staring into his boss’ steel cold gaze, an anger starts to burn in Ty’s veins. “Reese hired me even though I couldn’t read.”

“That was Reese. This is me. What do you want, Ty? You can walk away or force me to make a bigger deal out of this.”

For a moment, silence reins. Ty was shocked and angered. And he also knew that no one else would ever hire him because of his lack of skill. But going up against Austin? This cold-hearted man wasn’t worth the effort.

“Well… I guess that’s it then.” Ty’s fingers curl tighter around his letter, his stare turning into a glare. “Be sure to tell Hal when you see him. I’m sure he’ll be interested.”

“I will. You may come in next week to pick up your final paycheck.”

“Keep it,” Ty hisses. “If you…” He bites his tongue, surprising even himself by keeping his temper in check. Finally just shaking his head, he shoulders past Austin to stalk down the hallway to the stairs. Suddenly his whole future was a great big void. The only stable thing in his life was now gone.


On the other side of town, things are quiet and the hour grows late...

Reality comes into focus in an instant, shocking Axel’s system. He stares wide-eyed into the dark street, seeing the taillights of the car that had startled him with its horn.

Blinking, he turns around, trying to get his bearings, a panic starting to form. Headlights suddenly blind him, and he stumbles out of the way to barely avoid being hit. Staggering up onto the sidewalk, he looks down. He had his jeans and t-shirt on, but was barefoot and without a jacket. A chilly wind makes him shiver… or was it from the fear that had been evoked?

Trying to shake himself from his daze, he numbly heads to the corner of the street, squinting up at the sign. He was at fifth and crescent… at least two miles from the auto shop and his apartment. Checking himself over, he discovers he has no ID, no phone, no money.

Backing up against as cold brick building, he can hear his own pulse thumping in his head. It had happened again.

He runs a hand through his hair, wracking his brain, but it’s all a blank. The last thing he remembered was sitting on his couch in front of the television.

Without a way to do anything else, Axel finally sets out for the auto shop, trying to ignore the grit and gravel under his feet. It would take him a while to get there… he would choose a back route if he could follow it in the dark…

…Half an hour, and the chill was starting to set it. It may have been sixty degrees during the day, but after the sun went down, it got downright cold.

Axel rubs his arms as he trudges, stopping every so often as his feet hit a sharp rock or uneven crack in the sidewalk. Finally he just stops, sinking down onto a bench along the street, doubling over and trying to keep warm and catch his breath before continuing. The next question lurking in his mind was whether or not he’d locked himself out of his apartment. He wouldn’t know until he got here. But right now… right now he just needed to take a breather before going on.

There Choise

Listing to Rick Hope takes in everything he said. Listing closly to the situatuin and trying to understand it. As Rick continues with Scott's condition, and how it could be dangerous. The thought of something like that made Hope a little uneasy but she had never turned anyone away and never left someone who needed help to fight on there own.

Leaning back in her chair for a moment Hope just sits her eyes moving over Rick's face as she thinks. Much emotion was written all over Rick's face, his need, his want to help this young man Hope to read it all.

Standing for a moment Hope makes her way around the desk and heads over to the far window that streached from one side of the room all the way to the other and for a long moment just looked out of it.

Finally turning and heading to a filing cabnot she pulls out a folder with some paper in it before heading back to her desk again and sitting down.

"It sounds like this young man needs alot of help. Though it is as you said dangerous I am willing to give it a shot. I've never turned anyways away who needed help and I dont plan on starting."

*Giving a small smile Hope holds the folder out to Rick.*

"I am going to need you and Scott fill this out for me, and than return it asap. There are a few options for him as well. And whatever suits him is up to him for now. There is a paper in there that explains it more but I can give you a fast run down.

We have an open door plan and that is Scott can come in and out of the office like most. We set up apointments and he comes than goes. Also we have a inpashent plan. That would be if it would make him more comfortable and safe he can stay here in one of the rooms that is set up in the back. Its not exacly like a psyc ward, but we do have people who look over the pashents making sure they are ok and we have programs that will reintroduce him with the world and dealing with people with in the world."

Hope pauses for a moment before continuing as she gathers her thoughts and information for Rick.

"We leave it up to the pashent for now on what they would like to do but with in getting my help if I think one options would be better than the other, or if the pashent is in danger of hurting themself than I intervean and decied for them. More often than not though the pashent knows what they need and it never comes down to me having to over mine them."

Hope's smile stays soft as the look and strong pashen for what she did shone through her eyes.

Nate nods and listens to Brown as he talks. A bit of saprise on his face rises when the mention of some more rules of the Elite and they freedom they really did have.

Continuing to listen nate just takes it all in at the moment he was sure the looks on his face said enough. Giving the opertunity to speek finally Nate lets out a small sigh before continuing.

"I just want everone to be treated fairly. I think we do need more freedome your right about that. I also think if Austin had talked to us about ranks and what not we might have been able to ajust to it. but instead it was just thrown at as, as if he was trying to change us and everyone is bucking the system. I just want the fairness back, and Rick and Scott to have there jobs back. I'd stand behind Rick for anything. I'm behind him 100% with what he wants to do."

Nate gives a nod to Rick as the loylty is shown in his eyes. Rick ment alot to Nate without him he wouldnt have this job he held now and Nate has always respected Rick.

Carrying a few papers in his hand Dalton makes his way across the main floor after hearing through the grapevine that Reese had been fired. He wanted to talk to him about something but now he had to go the next step up and Dalton wanted to do it now before anything alse happend.

Passing through Susanne's office Dalton gives a small nod and than walks through Reese's office coming to Austin's door. Giving a strong knock on it he waits till he is given the ok to enter and does.

"Austin sorry to bother you but I've hit a bump in some of the programing and files here. Most of the stuff I was ok to figure out and understand its pretty simple but when I got to the more complex stuff its getting harder. I hardly have time to figure them out along with doing everything alse that needs to be done. So, I want an assistent, and I'd like it to be Scott himself."

For a moment Dalton goes silent as he stands tall searching Austin's eyes. He felt no fear, he felt no worry twords this man he hardly new. All he did know was he had come with a purpose and he wasnt going to be bullyed out of it.

"So, when Scott gets better I'd like him to be my assistent. I don't want anyone alse because Scott is the best, and I am the best. If I cant figure it out than there is no WAY anyone but the creator can."

Breaking Austin's gaze for a moment and feeling he new he was going to relent Dalton holds the papers out to him.

"Unless that is YOU can tell me what this means."

Dalton looks up to Austion again the strong cocky air coming off good and strong. He new it, and he wasnt trying to hide it.

Jess gives a smile as Axel speaks, watching as he continues to look around the car. Figuring he might be a little bit Jess makes her way inside to sit and read for a little bit.

As the time slowly pass and Jess continues to read the magazeans that were in the waiting room she cant help but loko up everyonce and a while and watch Axel. From where she was sitting she just happend to be in perfect view. Catching herself stairing once or twice Jess looks back at the magasean not looking up till she hears Axel's voice.

Standing and gives smile Jess can't help but feel a bit of guiltyness over not having to pay but she brushed it off for now figuring she would repay him someone another time.

Bringing her head up maybe a little to quick on Axel's offer to lunch and the shain to the rainbow brings a bit of color to her cheeks for a moment. Bushing it off quickly though as just an innocent statment Jess' smile remains.

"Well I guess if my shin can help the rainbow I can't say no huh? Becuase like a rainbow needs the shine the shin also needs the rainbow as a reminder that there is still some good and a reason to shine."

Gathering the grabage and the emptly soda can Jess toss it in the trash. Truning again she gives a nod. Jess liked spending time with Axel. Her new friend she had slowly learned to trust was now someone she enjoyed being around. Even when they did talk at all, the comapny was nice.