Normal

Carson leans forward to rest his elbows on the counter, cocking his head at Jess. He wondered now if she'd reacted someway to Axel she regretted, or if he'd unintentionally scared her.

"It'll follow you around," he confirms. "But... give yourself time, Jess. It takes a while, ya know?"

Just listening, he's a bit confused about what she's saying, but opts not to ask too many questions. Receiving her comment about Dani and the milkshakes he can't help but chuckle. "I think I'm lucky too. With a bunch like you around me, how can I go wrong?"

Hearing a timer go off in the kitchen, he straightens. "I gotta get back to work." He throws Jess a wink and a small smile. "Don't try to be normal. You're fine just the way you are."


Reese flops down in his chair, groaning as a pile of papers teetered and slid across the desk. Picking them all up, he spots his cell phone, realizing he'd forgotten to take it with him. And just his luck, he'd missed a call.

Listening too it, he furrows his brow in concern. Quiet for several minutes, he thinks, staring into nothingness. A strange sort of emotions were bundled together and trying to emerge, and he just wasn't quite sure what they were.

Rolling his eyes at himself, he hits the keypad on his phone and dials Charlotte back.

"Charlotte, it's Reese. Got your message..." He pauses. "I don't have a number for your sister other than the one I've always had. She didn't pick up this morning though... I figured she was on the road, or in a meeting or something."

He moves back in his chair, cringing as he hears it roll over some papers that had fallen to the floor.

"Listen, do you know what days she was doing what? I might try to get a hold of her again, like... when that party or whatever was, or when she was going to go to the grave? I don't want to keep trying her phone at bad times."


Scott looks up, a little surprised to see Katie, but a faint smile surfaces. "Hero..." He gives a little shrug. "I'm doing alright. If you ask Rick though, I'm on death's bed." Though he'd attempted humor, when it comes out it isn't all that funny.

Looking down, he fidgets with a corner of the blanket. Small talk didn't come very easily anymore.

Receiving her invitation for a picnic lunch though, he glances back up at her. A fear flashes through his eyes. A picnic? Outdoors? Where there were people around?

"I think that's a fine idea," Rick interrupts them. He eyes Scott knowingly. "You'd like some fresh air, wouldn't you? And I bet Katie could swing by home and Domino could even join you." His suggestion is aimed more towards Katie than Scott, providing a tactic for getting him to accept.

Scott hesitates, then shakes his head. "I...I don't think so. I gotta go out later anyway, and..."

"Well it's already after noon," Rick persists. "By the time you're all done, maybe Katie can just take you over to see..."

"No." Scott's face reddens, his eyes drifting downward. He didn't need everyone to know where he was going that afternoon.

"Scott..." Rick softens his tone. "It's okay." He sighs and looks to Katie, then back at Scott. "It's her or me."

Scott pulls his legs up close to his chest, contemplating. He wanted so badly to get out in the fresh air and get away from the infirmary. He really would like to just spend time with another friend. He did want to see Domino, and he knew that no matter what, Rick would see to it that he went to the clinic today.

After a long pause, he finally shrugs and looks back up to Katie. "Okay," he agrees softly. "Just let me get my shoes on."


"No, hold it, I - " Axel's words were cut off as the jack shifted and the car dropped down several inches. He winced, feeling pressed underneath. "Miles! Crank it up!"

Working with as much haste as possible, Miles and Leo get the jack unjammed and within seconds, Axel is sliding out from underneath.

"Oh man, you alright?"

Axel just looks up at Leo a moment, catching his breath. "Yeah...yeah, I'm fine." Getting up a bit shakily, he moves about the car, moving past the incident. His whole morning had been like this. One thing after another, and it wasn't helping his mood any either.

Just as he takes a tool from the workbench, pain shoots through his hand and he drops the tool, muttering under his breath as his fingers no numb. Now was not the day for this. It hadn't been his day since the beginning. He felt almost as though he'd simply gotten up on the wrong side of bed this morning. Why couldn't he go back and start over?

Rubbing his hand, the annoying sensation passes and he takes a deep breath, letting it out slowly. If he couldn't do anything else right, maybe he could at least fix one thing he'd broken today.

He heads to the office and closes the door after himself, going for the phone. He knew the number. He'd jotted it down once for some reason and it had been burned into his memory. He knew he'd get a voicemail box because of what time it was, but it didn't bother him. Maybe it was better that way anyway.

Leaning back against the wall, he hears the ringing, then the prompt to leave a message. "Hey, Stormy, it's Axel. Listen, I'm sorry." He sighs and shakes his head. "I didn't mean to be abrupt with you earlier. I didn't sleep well last night, I was in a bad mood and... I guess those aren't very good excuses, but they're all I got. I suppose I felt a little stupid too, not having realized what you were doing sooner, so I wound up getting mad at you instead of myself."

He knew that was the real reason for his surge of irritation. He was always so on top of everything, that taken by surprise like that wasn't a great feeling to him. But he knew Jess hadn't done it on purpose, and he hadn't meant to hurt her feelings.

He pauses, not really knowing what else to say. "I... well... yeah. Guess that's it. Don't want to keep you. Um...tomorrow Darrel will be gone. Don't know if you've got plans, but if not, you're more than welcome to come hang out at the shop again."

He hoped the invitation would be seen as the truce it was meant to be. "So... yeah. See ya later. Bye."

Strike one

Looking at the milkshake and than up at Carson Jess cant help the small grunt the resembled a chuckle. Taking a sip Jess is quiet for a moment thinking about the fact the Axel had called. She wasnt quite sure how she felt about it. Finally looking up at Carson Jess her eyes almost blank as she was deep in thought remembering the past and how it still lived in the present.

"Carson, will I ever be normal again? Or will these scars always follow me around and cause me to not remember that there are some good people out there?"

Looking back down at her glass Jess runs a finger around the rim before taking the spoon and scooping some of the whip cream off.

"I had a friend..and I thought I needed an excuse to see him."

Jess lets out a small scoff discusted with herself for even thinking such a thing.

"When he caught on, he was a little less than happy and I felt real stupid. Strike one up for the stormcloud again."

Knowing Carson wouldnt understand the refrance Jess dosnt bother to explain. Leaning down she just sips her milkshake as her mind maybe thinks to much.

"I'm lucky you have a sister, or alse you wouldnt know how to quite make these as good as you do."

Jess can't help but the small smile that finally makes its way to her lips. Weather it was the milkshakes or Carson's presence that made her feel better Jess wasnt sure but it was helping.

Receving only the voice mail once again Charlotte grows a tad conserned for her sister. She new she would be leaving but she didnt know if anyone would be going with her or not. Charlotte had wanted to go but in the closing months of her job there was no way she could.

Pacing the kitchen floor She brings a hand to her head as she thinks. It wasnt like Angelica to not call and at least let her know she was safe. Having an idea she dials Jamie's number fast.

"Hey Jamie, I know your at work and all but I was wondering if you had Reese's cell phone."

Grabbing a pen and a peace of paper Charlotte quickly jots down a number quickly.

"Ok yeah I got it. Thank Jamie. Ok I'll let him know. Thank again...Later."

Handing up the phone again Charlotte dosnt keep it off for long before staring to dial the number she was just given. Waiting for an answer on the other end Reese's voice mail finally picks up. Well it was better than nothing she guessed.

"Hey Reese this is Charlotte Parker, Angelica's sister. I was wondering if you had a phone number I could reach Angelica on she isnt answering her cell phone and I was a bit worryed. She had gone back to Cali for a few days for some work but also it was our brother birthday and she was going to go viset his grave."

Pacing again Charlotte continues to talk trying not to talk to fast. When she really got worryed its something she did offten.

"I know she was pretty upset that I couldnt come with her and she would have to go alone. I guess I just wanted to see if eather you went with her because I know you guys are close friends, or if she found someone alse. If I dont hear back from you I'll just call our mothers house I just wanted to leave that for last. Didnt think it was woth making her worryed for nothing. Anyways I better get going I think I am rambaling now. Thanks Reese."

Hanging up the phone again Charlotte lets out a sigh as she sits down at the chair on the table. Glancing up at the clock she takes note to what time it was. Bret would be home for lunch soon as least for now that would take away some of her worry.

Slipping through the infermary door without being spoted Katie looks around the room. She had become pretty good about moving around with no one seeing her. She didnt know why she felt like she had to sneek but she did anyways.

Seeing Rick sitting over at his desk Katie gives a small wave before walking over to Scott. As she draws closer Katie can see he is awake and is happy.

"Heya Scotty, how ya doing?"

Giving a genuin smile Katie gives a wave to Scott. She hadnt been in, in a few days and she was happy to be back so she could see Scott for herself.

"I was wondering if maybe you would like to go to lunch with me? That is if its ok with Rick. I figured maybe some fresh air would be good. I have a picnic lunch and I was just gonna head to a quiet spot in the part."

Katie smile lingers on her lips. She wanted to help Scott so bad and she new all she could really do was be a friend. But sometimes the small things really helped people. Scott being cooped up was no good and if she could get him some fresh air she would be happy she did something.

Would have chosen...

Axel can feel a bit of disappointment hit him as Jess opts not to eat lunch with him today. But it was his own fault. He’d scared her off – that much was apparent.

Without much else to say, he just watches her leave, his brain not functioning enough to even respond. But seeing a paper fall onto the counter, he furrows his brow and picks it up, scanning the words. He raises an eyebrow. "So what happens when a rainbow manages to disappoint and embarrass the storm cloud?" he wonders aloud.

Folding the paper gently, he tucks it in his pocket. He didn't have time for lunch today anyway. There was too much to do and too little time.

Passing through the office though, he pauses by the desk and glances down at the phone. He had a hunch...but was it really appropriate? At this point, he was too tired to decide if it was or not. He'd already made a blunder today, what was two?


Tuned to hear the bell on the front door, Carson's head automatically pops up as someone enters the restaurant. Seeing Jess, a smile spreads on his face.

"Herb, be right back."

Drying his hands on his apron, he goes to the freezer where he'd been just minutes before. After a moment, he withdraws, making his way to the front counter. "Hey you." He cocks his head at Jess. "Any other day I wouldn't have expected to see you here yet, but... someone tipped me off."

He slides a milkshake onto the counter, the glass frosted and steaming from hitting the warm air. "They said to tell you they would have chosen rainbow sherbet, but they knew we didn't serve it here."

Carson studies Jess, not having a clue what was behind this, but sensing the possibilities of hurt feelings somewhere.

Footsteps

Coming up to the desk and seeing no one around Jess is just quiet. Trying to work through everything in her head for a moment. As the sound of Keys and than Axel's voice follows Jess turns around just stairing at him for a moment as she takes her keys. Her eyes following him as he goes behind the desk Jess cant help but feel her embarrassment rise even more. Taking her checkbook from her pocket Jess starts to fill it out continplating Axel's statment about lunch. He was trying to be nice to her, she could tell he was but still something was off, and she just didnt feel like it anymore but on the other hand yes she still did.

"I'm not to hungry right now. Maybe tomarrow though I'll see what your up to."

Turning Jess leave the gradge a small peace of paper falling from her check book that was hand written onto the counter.

And each day the storm cloud has something to look forward to, knowing the rainbow is only footsteps away.

Getting into her car Jess lets out a sigh before starting it up and pulling out of the parking lot. Heading across town she makes her way to mom and pops before work. She wasnt hungry, but a strawberry milkshake was in order.

You forgot

Taking in Jess' reaction, then seeing her walk away, the door shuts on anything else Axel might have said. He groans and sets his hands on his hips, muttering under his breath. "Dang it."

Shaking is head he looks down at the desk again, pursing his lips. Taking a deep breath, he swipes the object up and heads to the front.

The front desk is quiet. Where Darrel was just minutes before, it was now empty and he was nowhere in sight. Though Jess is looking to pay the bill, the area is empty.

...Until a jingle of keys comes from behind her.

Axel cocks his head, holding out her keys that dangled off one finger. "You forgot something." His tone has softened some, but a strangeness lingers behind his eyes. One that held his confidence, but would confuse one who tried to understand.

Moving to Jess slowly, he deposits the keys in her hand. "But it wasn't just these you neglected..."

He goes around to the other side of the counter, prepared to take payment for the bill. His eyes roam the desk in front of him as he finishes his statement. "You forgot to ask me what I was doing for lunch."

Off guard

Taken off guard for a moment with Leo's comment about Axel and Jess she just looks at him for a second. Not sure what she should say or think. Finally finding he words Jess is about to contest and conferm that Axel was not her boyfriend but its to late Leo was already yelling to Axel. Just letting it be for now Jess drops what she was going to say. If it was braught up again it would be corrected.

Handing over her keys to Leo Jess makes her way to the office entering and sitting down.

As the short time pass Jess thumbs thought a few magazeans before finally looking up again and seeing Axel walks twards the office. A smile coming to her face. Watching him Jess just listens letting his words hit her ears. At fist the words are warm and she can't help but laugh just a little as she knows she has been found out. But soon Axel's words seem to turn cold and almost feel like ice. Letting her eyes drift up for a moment Jess looks into Axel's. Something was differnt, was it his mood, was he upset with her, irratated? But it was almost like a completely differnt person now stood infront of her.

As Axel rips off the paper and holds it out to Jess she flinches as if almost exspecting something more to come. Looking up again and seeing the paper slowly with a trembaling hand Jess takes it. Standing she grabs her jacket.

"I'm....I....Thanks for working on my car."

Trying to hold her head tall Jess leaves the office making her way to the front desk. A new form of emotions held tight to her, she felt embarassed. How silly she was to think using her car was a good way to see Axel. He was right she should of just asked.

Faster, cheaper

The noise in the shop keeps most men distracted, but as Leo goes to the toolbench, he spots Jess. Hearing why she's there, his eyes widen.

"Sparkplug issues??? Sparkplug issues?!" He lets out a groan. "You do realize your boyfriend is never going to let me live this one down, don't you?" He sighs and shakes his head in defeat before turning around and waving to the far end and shouting. "Axel!"

Axel comes up from the sportscar's engine and squints, seeing Jess and Leo. An eyebrow quirks in surprise and he throws up his hands to ask what on earth was going on.

Leo points outside and calls again. "Problems!"

"Again?!"

"Got time??"

Axel gestures to the empty bay next to him.

Leo turns to Jess and holds out his hands for the keys. "I'll give that bomber back to him this time. Maybe it'll put him in a better mood." He rolls his eyes. "In the meantime, you can sit in the office if you like." He leans in a little closer, lowering his voice. "Boss is here today." He doesn't have to elaborate - it was plain enough that the boss wouldn't appreciate customers hanging around inside the garage.

Within minutes, Leo has Jess' car inside. He and Axel converse for a moment or two, then Axel moves from the car he'd been working on, to Jess', propping open the hood. Even at a distance, one might be able to tell he's more rigid today, perhaps proving Leo right about his mood.

It doesn't take long before he's ambling across the garage to the office, a couple small parts in hand.

Opening the door, he steps into the waiting area and looks around, finding Darrel not within sight. He lets out a sigh and cocks his head, studying Jess for a moment. "Well...you're on time." He looks up at a wall clock. "Ten more minutes and I would have already been gone for lunch."

Moving behind the desk, he stays standing, but pulls out some paperwork to fill out, leaning down to write. "You know..."

He pauses and looks back up. His tone has taken on a stern edge, but an odd mixture in his eyes proves that there is something else. Amusement? Pleasure? It was hard to tell.

Axel deposits a couple sparkplugs on the desk. "I put these in myself a couple days ago. Funny they'd be giving you trouble..."

He lets his thought linger, turning his head back to the paper he was writing up. Though now looking down, he continues. "Even funnier you wouldn't have just gone downtown to the parts store and bought a couple to replace them yourself. Faster, cheaper..."

His eye drift up to hers again. "...and a piece of cake for somebody like you."

Tossing his pen aside he straightens up an folds his arms across his chest, just watching Jess for several more moments. "Jess..." He shakes his head slowly, his tone dropping. "Storm clouds don't need thunder and lightning to bring out a rainbow."

Axel leans down to tear off a bill for parts and holds it out to her, his eyes a steady gaze. "Friends don't need excuses to see each other," he reminds quietly. "Try asking...you might be surprised."

Sparkplugs

Pulling up to the gradge once again Jess smiles and lets out a tiny sigh. Sooner or later she was going to run out of car problems and than she would have to come here on her own but for now this worked.

Seeing the few cars parked outside Jess hesatats for a moment. It looks kind of busy and she didnt want to put anyone out, but...she was here she might as well go in. Getting out of her car Jess enders the shop glancing around for a moment. Seeing no one as the desk Jess walks to where she can see into the shop. An even bigger smile forms as she spots Axel working on a spots car. For a moment she just watches him not saying a word but a movment to her left side breaks her stair as she looks to see what it was. Spotting Leo makes Jess smile turn into a Smerk. Standing a tad bit taller Jess yells to him.

"I thought you said Leo if you worked on my car I wouldnt be in here again? Guess what I am back and I am having sparkplug issues."

Looking back in Axel's direction for a moment Jess gives a small wave.

Another day

Axel cocks his head, finding it interesting that Jess was sharing just a bit about herself. For even though some might see it as her simply explaining one small scene of her life, it said much more than that. To Axel, it said that she'd had a past of decisions that might not have been so great. To him, it said that she'd had a man in her life that wasn't so caring. To him, it said that she held regrets that had scarred a once-innocent heart.

Simply looking across the table at her, he doesn't need to ask questions or require a more elaborate explanation. Her tone and her eyes said it all.

"I guess maybe that's a scar's purpose... a reminder so that we don't forget the times we've fallen and picked ourselves back up again in order to survive."

His faint smile reappears. "No...they said once that maybe something could be done with my hand, but... at that time at least, it was too big of a risk. One wrong move and I'd lose all feeling for good. I opted to see what it did on its own. Maybe I chose poorly."

Focusing on his water glass for a moment, he runs a finger around the rim, seeming to concentrate on nothing. But Jess' final comment makes him look up again into her blue eyes. His almost-whispered words escape his lips before he's even thought about them. "I hope the stormy days come again."

The conversational exchange is suddenly halted as the waitress returns with the food, shattering the moment. Axel shifts gears, back into a lighter frame of mind, moving on from the previous topics. And the meal progresses with simple small talk until once again they walk then bid farewell in the auto parking lot. Axel watches until Jess' car is out of sight before finally ambling back into the garage to finish work on the van.


Luke chuckles and shakes his head. "I think you can survive a few days without me. Now... me on the other hand..." He grins and settles back in the couch. Work needed to be done. There were things to do and lists of tasks needing to be accomplished. But right now... he didn't care. Moments of bliss were too rare, and he cherished them all.

Gingerly lifting his legs to prop his feet on the coffee table, he shifts his weight a little so Angel is tucked comfortably next to him. Days were too short and hours not enough. Only a fool would pass up the little moments.


A wry grin surfaces and Jason sighs.

I won't give up. You have my word.

He leans forward to start his truck again, planning to simply go home. Trooper could use some exercise and attention, then after that, the evening would take care of itself. Just a couple more days of this were left. Then it would be back to TJY.

Thanks, Katie. Knowing I got you around makes this thing just that much more bearable.


Good times. Trials. Happiness. Misery. Opposites of feelings and emotions, each longing for something different, each embedded within the souls. But no matter the way a heart is heading, the future doesn't wait. Time is its captain, steering it towards the next sunset and the next sunrise...


"You're late."

"No I'm not." Carson rubs his wet head with a towel, just having showered and changed after his morning jog. "Not if I run."

Dani rolls her eyes as she eats her toast at the kitchen table. "Doesn't that kind of defeat the purpose of you showering."

"Quite possibly." Carson grabs a can of pop to chug half of it down.

Dani shakes her head in disapproval. "Nice breakfast."

"Well I don't have anybody to fix anything else."

"Hello... you do have two hands."

"Yes, but they're connected to a brain that is always seeming to run ten minutes behind."

Dani can't help a laugh. "Do you want a ride?"

Carson fakes innocent surprise. "I thought you'd never ask."

Dani rolls her eyes again and stands up, stuffing the last bite of toast into her mouth. "Come on. I suppose I can get to work a few minutes early, and I wouldn't want you to have to work late tonight."

"Me either. Misty's supposed to come over late afternoon when I get off."

"Ooh, special plans?"

"Don't have a clue."

"How...exciting?" Dani grabs her purse, heading to the apartment hall with her brother close behind.

Carson chuckles. "Sure. At least I get off before supper time. Aerith will be the busy beaver tonight instead of me."


"AJ! You made it!"

Axel yawns and nods his greeting to Miles. "Mm-hmm. I thought you weren't working this week."

"Ron traded hours with me." The blonde points to the schedule on the wall. "Besides, Darrel will be in today and I wanted to talk to him about the vacation I want next month."

"Good luck."

Miles smirks. "Thanks." Cocking his head, he squints as Axel numbly sets about opening up the garage. "You look like you haven't slept at all."

"Well that's not true. I got at least an hour." Axel opens up two of the large doors, the light illuminating the shop. He runs a hand through his hair and stifles another yawn. He'd woken up on the living room floor this time, without a clue to where he'd been between there and his bedroom. Maybe he hadn't been anywhere, but he'd woken up completely exhausted.

Miles shakes his head. "Whatever you do, today's not the day to fall asleep with the boss around."

"No kidding."

"Heeeeey, Grease!" Leo tosses his jacket to the side and stretches. "Look alive! We actually got cars coming in today."


Scott flips another set of cards over, staring at his tenth game of solitaire. Sighing, he flops back in the bed, weary from a weird combination of boredom and lack of motivation. The night had gone by without incident, so at least Rick was happy about that. He'd spent the night again, but had left this morning with Misty had arrived. His promise though, was to be back after lunch and to take Scott to see the counselor.

Scott's stomach made a strange turn at the thought. He didn't want to go see some stranger. He didn't want to be forced into talking about things he didn't even want to think about. He didn't want to go... He just plain didn't want to see anybody. But he'd already told Rick he would.

Feeling worthless, he sits back up to gather the cards and toss the deck back onto the bedside table. It landed next to the plate of only half-eaten food. He wasn't interested in the rest of his breakfast, even though Rick had asked him to try and eat the whole thing.

He turned on his back, then his side, then his back, then to his other side. He didn't want to stay here. He didn't want to get up. He didn't know what he wanted anymore, but his brain was desperately trying to remain occupied so he wouldn't think about things he didn't want to.

Glancing over to Misty at her desk, Scott studies her for a moment. He hadn't seen Kyle lately. Come to think of it, he hadn't seen much of anybody lately. Even Jason had only just called yesterday instead of stopping by. And anybody else from JetStream was busy. Scott wondered if he even had a place in that circle of friends anymore.

Bringing his thoughts back around, he wondered if Kyle would be back, or if it would be Carson this time. He couldn't tell.

Continue to feel

As if coming from a transe and relizing just what she had done and who's hand she was holding Jess can't help the heat she feels coming to her cheeks. She hadnt intended on this being a imtamit as it was, nor did she even relize she had done it. But seeing Axel wasnt upset puts Jess at ease just a little.

As Axel withdraws his hand Jess sits back and lets out a breath she hadnt relized she was holding. Trying to compose herself again and not feel to embarssed. As Axel starts to talk about what happend it makes Jess relaxe just a little bit more.

"Wow, that sucks. They can't replace the nervers or fix them or anything?"

Looking up at Axel Jess stairs into his endless eyes. She had hoped she hadnt asked to many questions. Thinking for a moment Jess gives a small nod to herself as she thinks of maybe she something she could now shair with Axel.

" I have a big scar on my knee. Back when I use to drink I got pretty smashed one night and I tryed walking down the steps to Peter's apartment. I guess I wasnt going fast enough and he give me a little push. Maybe to a normal person it was just a push but to someone drunk it was a shove. I lost my footing and ended up falling down the steps. Messed up my knee pretty bad. I dont have to many problems with it anymore sometimes when it gets cold it hurts but other than that I just have a nasty scar as a reminder."

Still looking into Axel's eyes his last comment sends a strange searge to Jess heart, not one that was feared or one that made her feel uneasy but it was a warm feeling. Something Jess wasnt sure she ever felt before.

"Even if the rainbow fades, as long as there are stormy days to come there is a promise the rainbow will be back to brighten the sky up and let the light shine through again."

Giving a smile nod and a smile Angel playfuly gives a slap to her husbands shoulder for his teasing.

"The day I see you cry is the day...something is wrong."

Angel's smile shines through as she looks apon her husbands face. Oh how she loved him and he ment the world to her.

"I wont be gone for long I promise. I'll probley leave in a day or two so that way I am gonna sooner and come home sooner."

Leaning back again Angel gives Luke a quick kiss before nuzzaling into him again on the coutch bringing her feel up to the empty space next to them.

"I know I am going to miss you something awfel."

Sitting on the coutch in her room Katie lets out a long sigh. Things with Wyatt this morning had not went to well and she couldnt help but worry about Ty. He was her friend and she would hope he would have sence enough not to do anything stupid but after today she wasnt so sure she was thinking straght. She new all to well what anger could do to a person.

Receving Jason's emotion Katie can't help the smile that spread across her face thought the message wasnt a happy one at least she got to feel Jason. It was always a nice feeling.

I dont know J. In a situation like this its hard. I think what Austin is doing is wrong and at the moment I hate him to. Just feel yourself feel because the problem falls in line when you dont feel anything at all. Than you mind dosent know right from wrong and you just dont care what happend anymore.

Katie lets out a long sigh. It was so hard to give someone alse addvice when she was hurting herself.

I think maybe the thing that hurts the most out of this all is not understanding. The question of why, lingers. Not understanding, and having the question are the things that hurt the most sometimes. I am sure we will get our answers sooner or later but...untill than we have to hold tight ok. Dont give up on me yet.

Ever at the storm's mercy

As Jess takes Axel’s hand, he tenses, caught completely off guard. He looks up at her quickly, but her eyes are focused on his hand. He’s tempted to swiftly end the unintentional interaction, but her gentle touch changes his mind, and he feels himself relax again.

Ultra sensitivity always came before the numbness, but Jess’ softness soothes it away, her motions almost hypnotic. Her fingers running over the scars send a tingle up his arm, but it’s not from the injury, and Axel can feel heat crawling up the back of his neck.

No one ever paid attention to the little things… but Jess had. She’d noticed, and had taken the initiative to help, bypassing questions to retain respect.

The pain in his hand starts to subside from Jess’ attention, and for a moment, Axel’s fingers start to wrap around her own.

But as if remembering his place, he slowly backs off, his finger running along her palm as he withdraws.

“Thank you,” he mentions quietly.

Though unusual for him not to know what to say, it takes him a moment before he clears his throat and regains complete composure. Flexing his fingers proves that Jess did help minimize the uncomfortable spell.

“It’s nerve damage,” he finally explains. Looking up again, he searches Jess’ eyes for a moment before going on.

He holds up his hand again, exposing the scar on both the top and palm. A wry grin seeps out. “I found out the hard way that flesh won’t stop a knife.”

Shaking his head, he gives a little sigh. “Didn’t have much trouble at first, but… these little episodes are happening more frequently now, and some get pretty intense. Feels like the knife is going through there all over again, then my hand just goes numb. Working it over seems to help get it going again.”

Axel pauses, taking a napkin to fidget with. As he resumes his explanation, his tone shifts slightly, intentionally void of emotion.

“At the increasing rate of frequency, by this time next year, I’ll be lucky if I have use of my hand at all.” Another grin is forced through. “Not such a great prospect for a guitarist and drummer. But… we’ll see what happens. There’s a chance it won’t get any worse than this.”

Cocking his head, his eyes fill with his piercing intensity as the wheels in his mind turn. His voice softens. “Ever at the storm’s mercy, a rainbow’s fate is never known. It can remain for an extended time, or fade in an instant.”


Scott can feel raw emotions boiling up inside of him as Dalton talks. He'd been friends with a few people around here, sure. He and Katie had been close and he'd been the next closest to Wyatt probably. But... to think that Dalton had such a high impression of him through what others were saying... He wondered if he did really deserve it. He'd always just been the blundering tech guy... what did people really care? But... apparently they did. And he couldn't help but feel a little bit of good from it.

"Um... ok." Standing lamely for a moment, Scott isn't quite sure what to do. But it looked like he at least had somewhere to come from now on. He had a job when he was ready.

"Scott?"

He whirls around and takes a step back, startled by Rick's sudden presence. "I was just coming back."

"It's okay," Rick assures. "I just didn't know where you were. You alright?"

"Yeah..." Scott gestures to Dalton. "He was just telling me that... that I still got a job here."

Rick's eyes widen and he glances over at Dalton. "Really?"

"I guess so."

"Well I'll be." A chuckle slips out and Rick shakes his head. He didn't know how it had happened, but somebody must have gotten the best of Austin. "Good. I'm glad."

A faint smile surfaces on Scott's face. "Me too."

Rick nods. "Come on. We need to talk about tomorrow."

Seeing Rick leave, Scott turns one more time to Dalton, the thanks in his eyes enough for now. He didn't need to say anything more. Looking down again, he turns around and trudges out of the office, following Rick back to the infirmary.


Luke's eyebrows raise a little bit, and he shifts his weight so he can see Angel's face. "You wanna go there, huh?" He gives a little shrug. He'd go along with her, but he'd been having enough trouble the way it was lately, and wasn't convinced that being away from home was such a great idea right now. But if Angel wanted to... he didn't really mind.

"That's alright I guess." He stops and thinks, a bit of the past creeping up on him. But things were different now... and he trusted his wife. Not only with how she conducted herself, but how she could handle herself in any situation. He didn't trust Austin at the moment, but Angel had a good head on her shoulders.

Luke gives her another squeeze, leaning down to offer a tender kiss. "If that's what you want. Just tell me when, so I know when I'm gonna cry, waving as you drive away." His grin signals he's teasing, and a light chuckle escapes. "Naw, it's good. Sounds like there's plenty of reason for you to go, and if you find anything out about Austin, that's reason enough right there."


Jason leans back in his truck seat, looking over the park. Just finishing lunch with Katie, they'd con separate ways for the rest of the day, but there was still something he needed to do. He wasn't sure how, but it was bugging him enough that he knew he should. He hadn't talked about it with Katie, or let her in on any of it today, but... it just didn't feel right to leave things as they were.

Fishing for his cell phone, he pulls it out and goes through the numbers until he comes to the one he wants. Dialing, he waits.

"Hello?"

"Hey, Mom."

"Jason!" Cindy smiles and eases down in the chair, Kaylee held in her other arm. Hope rises in her that this conversation would be better than the last. She hadn't liked not speaking to her son since harsh words had been exchanged. "How are you?"

"Oh..." Jason sighs. "I'm okay. I guess... I just..."

"It's okay." Cindy rocks Kaylee as she talks. "I'm sorry I gave you a hard time before. I heard from a couple other people and... you were right."

A bit of relief passes through Jason, and for a moment, he was willing to just let slide what he was going to say. But he brings himself back to task. "I'm sorry too. I shouldn't have yelled at you like I did. Guess I was just upset. Well... I'm still upset, but... it wasn't your fault."

"It's okay," Cindy repeats. "I worry about you."

"Don't... it'll all turn out in the end."

"But what about Austin? You said he helped put you in prison."

"I still think he did. And I'll deal with that later. For now, it's just TJY I'm worried about."

"What are you going to do?"

"Nothing until I get back in the office. I got a few ideas, but... for now I guess we're just gonna play things out. The law is watching him though, so at least that's good."

"Well... okay." Cindy isn't convinced that everything is quite as casual as her son now was making it sound. But she guessed she'd rather have him settled down about it than enraged as he had been before.

Jason gives a little smile. "I gotta go. But... I just wanted to give you a quick call."

"Thanks, Jase."

"Yeah. Tell Wes hi?"

"I will."

"Okay. Bye." Jason flips his phone shut and sits still for several moments.

Hero... when hate and anger turn to despair, what do you do?

He shakes his head.

I still hate Austin. But now that I've sat on it for a few days, it's almost like I'm numb. Like there won't ever be any feelings for him there at all again. And I wonder... is that all there is anymore?

Satisfaction

A small smile curles on Jess lips as she walks along side Axel down the street till they reach the restront. Once inside and seated Jess leans back a little in the booth and lets out a small sigh. It was nice getting out and have a nice time with a friend.

"Having a veriaty of people to talk with is always a nice thing. Differnt people talk about differnt things, and differnt ways. Its intresting sometimes to see how the next person differs from the last."

Looking over her menu again Jess finally decieds what she wants. Glancing up and seeing Axel rubbing his hand something comes over her and without even thinking she reaches out and take Axel's hand in her rubbing it gently and with the other hand running her fingers over the scar. No questions come as she rubs respecting Axel's privecy and knowing if he wanted her to know that he would tell her. Just consintrating on his hand Jess almost seems lost, knowing that it must hurt because more than once now she had seen the affect on him.

A small smile forms on Dalton's lips. As a feeling washs over him that he's not sure he can describe. It wasnt often he felt like this for someone he hardly new. Yet at the same times it almost felt like he had known Scott all his life. In a way his heart went out to him, and he wanted to show him friendship, comfort not because he had to or he felt bad for him but because he wanted to.

"You do deserve it Scott. Your one of the best people I've met in my life in a long time. Maybe I have only known you for a few weeks. But in those few weeks I have seen people stick up for you, risk there jobs for you. I've hurd everyone talking about you and that in itself tell me that your a great person. Not to mention I got to have a few conversations of my own wtih you."

Giving a small nod of satisfaction Dalton looks away for a moment and than around the room before looking back to Scott.

"I can't wait till your able to start working again. Its going to be nice to have someone to keep me company. We are gonna have to find a new desk to put in here too. You need anything...let me know ok?!"

Going back to his paper work the smile lingered on Dalton's face. How sometimes the small things in life could really open someone eyes and show them that maybe it was ok to take a jump for someone.

Continuing to snuggle close to Luke Angel falls silent for a moment. Feeling the comfort of her husband was nice. His arms warped around her like a blanket.

"I guess its hard not being able to see something to really understand and not knowing what the future hold can make it scary too."

Moving just a little bit Angel tilts her so she can look Luke in the eyes giving a small smile. A question layed behind her eyes that she wasnted to ask though she wasnt sure how. How would it be taken and what would the answer be?

"Luke, I was thinking about going to Nevada for a few days to see what was up. I wanted to see if I could find out what was wrong with Austin and I know he'd talk to me. Also Misty had been working on some nerve damage repair research that she has been wantching me to come take a look for ages now. So I guess I'm asking if it would be ok with you if I went. If not that is quite alright."

A dance

A faint grin creases Axel's lips, but he doesn't turn around, still cleaning himself up at the sink. The pause is long, and some might think he didn't hear Jess, but after he's finished drying his hands, he ambles to the open garage door.

"Well, alright then." Grabbing a hoodie off a nail by the door, he pulls it on over his t-shirt to hide the grime. He motions with his head for Jess to follow, and exits into the parking lot.

Just as they get into the fresh air though, a voice behind them makes Axel stop. Leo had beat them to the outdoors, reading aloud a paper with handwritten words.

"A dance.
Elements of nature form.
So distinguished and so rare.
A dance.
Spheres of moisture, glistening true.
Gravity controlled, but willed by fire.
A dance.
Raindrops meet a burning sun.
But squelched they will not be.
A dance.
Bursting forth, the colors sparked.
The light severed to reveal.
A dance.
Between the raindrops and the light.
Arched to bridge the worlds,
Of two,
Who dance."

Leo as he stares at the page with raised eyebrows. "So now we know what our dear friend Axel does in his spare time around here. Lovely... just lovely."

Though Leo had been looking for an embarrassed reaction, Axel doesn't give it to him. Instead, he simply shakes his head. "Well, Leo... You can read. I'm proud of you." He turns his head to shout back inside. "Hey, Jed! Next time you have trouble with reading the label on a box, just ask Leo here. He's improving by leaps and bounds!"

"Oh, stop!" Leo smacks Axel on the head with the paper.

Axel lets a grin slip as he calmly retrieves his writing. "Keep it up, Leo. One day you might be able to actually speak as intelligently as the things you read."

"Why you..." Leo's mouth hangs open, but no comeback comes to mind quick enough.

Axel folds the paper and stuffs it in his back pocket before turning back around and aiming for the sidewalk once more. He throws Jess a humorous glance. "Coming or what?"

He's quiet as they walk down to the little restaurant. Not seeming to be too deep in thought, but quiet nonetheless.

Settling down at a small table near the window, once their inside and have their food ordered, Axel leans back in his chair, giving a little sigh of content. "Ya know, sometimes just getting away from the shop for a while is worth the walk."

He rubs his scarred hand absentmindedly as it starts to tingle again. "'Course, it helps to have someone to talk to other than Leo too." He chuckles softly, his eyes showing that even if he razzed Leo, they were friends.


"Thank you, Miss Garrison." Rick concludes his phone call. "Appreciate everything and... We, or at least Scott, will be seeing you soon. I'll do my best to get him to his appointment."

Hanging up, he rubs a tired hand over his face, stifling a yawn. A couple hours of sleep at home hadn't done a whole lot of good.


Scott blinks, staring at Dalton for several seconds, thinking he must have heard incorrectly. But no... he hadn't. Dalton really had gotten his job back for him. But... how... why...

He swallows hard, unsure how to even react. He'd been so sure that he'd never be back working here, at least as far as Austin was concerned. He'd been so sure that there was no place for him anymore. Did they really love him around here that much? Could Dalton really use his help that much?

A bit timidly, Scott steps forward, eying Dalton's hand, as if almost afraid of what the intentions were behind the gesture. But ever so slowly, he reaches out, finally taking Dalton's hand. Something close to a smile emerges, but too much confusion remains for any celebration.

Backing off a little, he studies Dalton for a moment. There were a lot of questions as to how he'd convinced Austin of this, but... at this point, Scott wasn't going to complain. He didn't think he was worth much here anymore, and he didn't really think he could contribute much, but at least his haven was back... at least he knew he wouln't be thrown out.

"Um... Thank you... I guess. I... don't really know what to say." Scott stumbles through his words, unsure if it was his brain that was jumbled, or just his immediate thoughts. "I'm not sure I deserve this..." His eyes fall to the floor, but he forces himself to look up again. "But if Austin agreed then... I guess I'll do what I can."


Luke offers a smile as Angel approaches, but can see the strain behind her eyes. As she settles in next to him, he puts his arm around her, drawing her even closer, and planting a gentle kiss on her head.

Listening to her, he knows she's hurting, and so is he. So is everyone, it seemed. Some more than others, but in reality, everyone was feeling stress, whether it was related to the episode with Clint and Wendy, or to what was happening in Nevada with their friend. Whatever the case, the tension had been rising whether people wanted to admit it or not.

"Wendy will be okay," he assures softly. "It wasn't in the plans but... she'll be okay. God's not going to leave her high and dry because she made a mistake. And... I have faith in Clint too. Maybe more than I should, but he's going to be the one taking care of Wendy here pretty soon."

Luke gives Angel another little squeeze. He knew his own protectiveness he felt towards Wendy, but couldn't imagine how Angel felt... having to let go of her daughter more quickly than anticipated.

A deep sigh is let out slowly, and after a moment, Luke shifts on the couch to pull Angel almost onto his lap so he can wrap both arms around her. "We're all wondering about Austin... I don't understand either. I even talked to Brent earlier, and he's just as confused as anyone. I guess all we can do right now is pray... Pray that whatever Austin is going through isn't as major as it seems, and... pray that too many bridges don't get burned."

Resting his head against hers, he knows it isn't that simple. There had to be more to the story than they knew. But what else could be done? Austin had been their friend... but what could they possibly do?

Friends

Jess shoots her head up giving a small jump as Axel was being called. The sharp voice startled her just a little causing her to move closer to Axel out of habbet feeling for a moment a bit valnarable. But seeinf Axel turn to him and now hearing the calm voice Jess relaxes just a little knowing everything was ok.

Shaking her head and giving a laugh as the rock music plays Jess leans a little closer to Axel.

"You know it usaly depends the kind of mood I am in, and I like rock just as much as the next person but I'd rather have some classic playing more than anything."

Strating and walks twords the front Jess stops for a moment as Axel's invatation or non invatation. The courners of her mouth curling.

"Well I was going to head to get something to eat myself and for a moment I was scaired I was gonna have to eat alone but since your heading to the same place as me I might as well follow if you dont mind."

Jess stuffs her keys in her pocket and turns to look at Axel.

Thinking for a moment Hope taps her pencil absentmindedly on her desk as she talked to Rick.

"Well without seeing Scott first to see his condition I really dont know how accurit my addvice would be but from what you told me on the phone my best guess would be to keep him comfortable and calm. If he admisphere is comfortable than he just might get a better night sleep."

Standing Hope walks over to her filing cabnet pulling out another folder for her next pashent who would be there soon.

"Other than that Mr. Johnston there really isnt anything you can do till I see Scott."

Sitting at his desk and hearing someone enter the office Dalton feels a bit irratated for a moment that someone entered without knocking. Looking up from his desk Dalton is about to say something when he see just who entered the office. Seeing Scott Dalton's face softens and a new attitude is formed and a small smile makes its way across the big mans face.

"Hey there Scott. I was going to stop by and see how you were in a bit but, I guess you found me first."

As Scott asks about his own name being on the door again Dalton cant help the flutter that formed in telling the new to Scott that he could stay though keeping his cool and not letting it show through.

"Well, I was able to work it out so you could stayand we could have two tech guys. I know alot, but there is so much more I could learn and I'd want the best to teach me. Its not much but I was happy to do it because this place loves you, and I dont want them to lose you."

Finally a brauder smile forms, one not offten seen on the face of this giant. But something about Scott changed him, something about him made Dalton feel good and it felt even better to know he had helped someone.

"Congradulations Scott you made it to friend status."

Dalton holds out his hand to Scott offering a handshake.

Poking her head into the house Angle scans the room for Luke. Finally her eyes rest on him and a smile cross her face. Entering all the way she walks over to the couch and sits down next to him bringing a hand to his chest and resting her head on his shoulder. So much went through her mind it was hard to figure out one thing alone.

"Whats happening to the everything Luke. We once wanted peace for our kids and that never came. Now...now Wendy has to grow up fasted than planed, and she has bene thrown into a world she cant even understand yet. I know I didnt but I feel like I failed somewhere."

A small sniffle comes as a tiny tear rolls down Angel's cheek. Everything piled up, she was strong but now the bucket was starting to overflow once again. She was happy and over joyed in like but not the stress was in piles.

"And than there is Austin. I don't understand whats gotten into him. He seems ok when he went back to Nevada. I even talked to him before he left and now, this person that is firing people and being a tyrint its just...not him."

Angel keeps her face burryed into Luck's shoulder. Everything was so confusing, and sometimes so hard to bear. But being close to her husband she found the comfort and love she need. Anytime, anyplace.

Why?

Axel fidgets with a wrench in his hand for a moment, cocking his head at Jess, and noting her lack of hurry to leave. Most people, once their car was finished, would be fast gone.

He opens his mouth to respond, but the silence is interrupted by a shout from the office.

"Axel!!!"

Axel's eyes widen and he turns around, looking to the open door where Jed was standing, waving a CD in the air. "What?"

"Are you crazy?!" Jed blinks, shaking his head. "You have defiled the CD player!"

Axel quirks an eyebrow. "Okay, I'll bite... how did I do that?"

"You replaced my metal with this?!"

"Ohh, that." Axel holds in a laugh, turning back to the van. "Little bit of celtic never hurt anyone."

"It hurt my ears!"

Leo pops up from the other side of the shop. "You tell him, Jed! Every time I get in the tow truck, he's got some foofoo music going."

Axel smirks, giving Jess a look that said the other two were off their rockers. "Just because you guys don't know how to appreciate music when you here it, is no reason to make fun of it."

Jed rolls his eyes and slips back into the office, the sound of rock music coming forth soon after.

Axel sighs good-naturedly and reaches up to shut the van hood. Grabbing a rag, he wipes a couple tools off and heads to the sink to use soap and water on his hands.

"Well, you should be all set," he comments to Jess, over his shoulder. "Don't know about you, but I'm heading to Michael B's for some soup before my lunch break is over, or before these two knotheads decide to leave so I have to stay and watch the shop."

Though his eyes focus on the sink, his invitation lingers in the air, to join him at the little restaurant just a walk's distance away.


Rick turns in his chair to check the calendar, and nods, even though Hope can't see him. "Wednesday sounds good. I'll do my best with him until then, and... yes, I understand that you may decide different arrangements for him."

He pauses, hoping that things would be better tonight with Scott, but was unconvinced. "I, um... well, do you have any advice what I can do in the meantime? Last night scared me pretty bad, I'll admit. I still don't know if Scott was totally awake or not, but... well, I guess I'm just glad I don't know what was going through his mind. I don't want to see him hurt, so I've opted to stay here with him, but that just makes him mad."


Hearing someone coming down the hall, Scott starts to turn to go back to the infirmary. But as he does, his eyes glance upward one more time, and suddenly his eyes find something too strange to not stop and stare.

Frowning, he doesn't understand. Two nameplates? Why was his name back on this door? He had no office... he had no job.

Confused, instead of returning to the shelter of the infirmary, he steps just inside Dalton's office, avoiding interaction with those passing in the hall.

Looking over to Dalton at his desk, Scott hesitates, feeling invasive for not having knocked. Reaching up, he absentmindedly rubs his blind eye. "Um... Dalton?"

He finally gets up enough nerve to ask, skipping over any formal greetings. "Why... why is my name on the door?"


Carson grins and gives Misty's hand a little squeeze. "Thanks, Misty."

Someone coming into the diner makes Carson glance up, and his eyes pass by the clock on the wall. Sighing, he looks back to Misty. "Can I beg a ride off of you, back to Mom and Pop's? If you gotta get back to work, I can walk. I told Herb I'd be a while anyway."

Differnt

Misty listens to Carson with interest. She really did care what happend and was going on with him all these months. Even though some of the info hurt a little she was happy that Carson was feeling better about himself.

"Well it sounds like your on the right track and I am happy for that. You've always ment the world to me."

A grin curles at the courners on Misty's mouth as she just looks across the table at Carson.

" There is just something about you I cant let go. Maybe its the fire you spark in me. I dont know but whatever it is I like it you know that."

Reaching across the table Misty takes Carson's hand in her own. Things were gonna be differnt that was for sure, but maybe she would get use to it.

Jess enjoys watching and helping Axel here and there, the small talk was nice and the silence even better. Doing something differnt was always nice, and watching Leo and Axel go back and forth was something funny in itself to watch.

Giving a small jump when Axel drops the wrench Jess just watches him. Something was wrong and was bothering Axel with his hand. This had been the second time she saw him rubbing it over wincing just a little. But letting it pass by once again Jess just watches him. Taking in every move, and motion.

Once Leo comes back and gives Jess her keys she hops off the counter. Though she wasnt in any hurry she contiune to talk to Axel answering his question.

"Not much really. I have to work at 2 and than after that I am doing a bit of waitressing at Mom and Pop's for about an hour."

Jess stops and takes a breath of air relizing it felt like she was holding it in for one reason or another.

" Other than that nothing to grand."

Picking up the phone Hope jots something down fast before hearing Rick's voice. After a few days had gone by and she had hurd nothing she almost lots hope that Scott would consent to see her.

"Hello Mr. Johnston, I was starting to wonder if you were going to call back or not."

Pulling out a new file she jots down Scott's name and that he in an out pashent in pending.

"..Ok I got it set up but Mr. Johnston you relize that if I find it better Scott stays here or once I take him as a cliant he trys to harm himself he will have no choise in the matter anymore?! I just want you as Scott's Dr. to understand and know this so there are no saprises."

Drawing silent again Hope looks through a calander on her desk trying to find a good time for Scott to come see her.

"How about Wednsday at 3pm? Would that work?"

Pickle jar

Carson gives Misty a little smirk at her comment. “Alright, I give. You can drive.” He pulls his own jacket a little tighter around himself. “You pick the place, but it’s gotta be in agreement with my wallet.”

He nudges her teasingly as they walk, finally getting back to her car. Getting in, he shakes his head. “Crazy weather. They’re saying it’s one of the coldest winters in a long time. Just my luck – the one year I’m without a car.” He rolls his eyes.

It’s not much later and the two are at a café downtown. It’s fairly quiet today, peaceful, even though it looks out onto the busy street.

“…so I spent the first night at her place last night.” Carson finishes up telling Misty that he’d moved in with Dani after having been living at Mom and Pop’s all this time. He finishes off his glass of soda pop, then shrugs. “I guess that brings us up to date. Well… not quiet.”

He cocks his head, looking across the table at Misty. “I forgot to mention that somewhere along the line I got accepted back by the only sheila that ever got the upper hand on me.”


Wyatt sighs and nods his agreement, slipping in behind the steering wheel of his jeep once more. Waiting a few minutes until Ty was a short ways away, Wyatt drives slowly and makes a few unnecessary turns to stay a satisfactory distance from their target. "Where is the blockhead going anyway?" he mutters.


Ty trudges down the sidewalk, his hands in his jacket pockets. His eyes were focused on the cement slabs at his feet, rather than ahead, so when the women knocks into him, he jumps, completely startled. Turning around, he lifts his eyebrows. "Um..no problem?"

He's surprised again when the second figure moves past him, and he stops, a bit confused, but not caring a whole lot. It wasn't any of his business what was going on. But...

His eyes sudden catch sight of the forest green jeep several blocks away, and a scowl forms. "I told you I wouldn't be babysat," he growls under his breath.

Turning, he slides into an alleyway instead of heading down the sidewalk, then scoots behind a dumpster, out of sight from the street.


Wyatt drives slowly, suddenly having lost sight of Ty. "Aw, great." He glances down to the left, then to the alley on the right, but Ty had vanished. "He may not be able to read, but he's too smart for his own good."

Shaking his head, he makes sure no one is coming before doing a U-turn. "If he wants to be alone, so be it. I'm not gonna play this gave with him. If you want to go looking for him, that's up to you, but I have to get back to the office before I'm the one on the unemployed list."


There's just enough space between the dumpster and the brick wall, and Ty can see Wyatt turn around and drive off again.

Giving a smirk of satisfaction, Ty rises to his feet again, continuing down the alley until he's at the other side of the block. Looking both ways, he opts to turn left towards the center of town.


Axel tinkers a bit in the engine, hearing Jess' comment about the carburetor, but keeping his eyes on his work. "Mm-hmm..." He reaches in to fiddle with a hose. "Looks like the last guy who worked on this had a few of his own screws loose."

Slipping his hand down in with a wrench, something gives way and he winces, drawing his hand back out just in time before the tool slips from his numb grasp to clatter onto the floor. Shaking his head with a little bit of disgust, he rubs his hand for a moment until he can flex his fingers again and pick up the wrench.

Still concentrating, he goes right back to work. "The carburetor has problems, that's for sure, along with several other things. I'm surprised the guy was even able to drive it here without being towed."

Axel squints into the engine, then gestures over to the tool bench. "Hey, grab me those pliers over there, would you?" He keeps his eyes on his work, even after receiving the tool. "There we are..."

Working for a while longer, the time slips by. Small talk mixed with work would create a boring atmosphere for some, but here, somehow it doesn't.

"Grease!"

Axel looks up from the van to see Leo. "What?"

"Ten minutes and she's ready to roll. How's your project coming?"

Axel holds up a piece of severed hose. "Peachy."

Leo grins. "Well you and the peaches have fun. This baby here is gonna be running as smooth as butter. Don't know what your problem was with it."

Axel shakes his head, a wry grin barely noticeable. "It's like a pickle jar," he calls back. "I've been doing all the work, and all you had to do was pop the lid."

Leo sets his hands on his hips. "That's not fair!"

Axel's grin finally emerges. "Sounds far to me. But you better get a move on, or those ten minutes are going to be gone."

Muttering under his breath, Leo gets back to work.

Axel turns his head to catch Jess' eye, his own sparkling with humor. "Leo wins a trophy and you get your car back. Seems like a pretty good deal." He looks over to the far wall where there was a clock. It was noon. "And all before lunch to boot." He gives a nod of satisfaction. There was more, dancing on the tip of his tongue, but he held back, returning to the van.

"Big plans today?" he finally asks.


"No."

Rick sighs and looks at Scott, trying to change his mind, but finding it nearly impossible. He sits on the edge of the bed, papers in hand. It was after lunch, and trying to get Scott to interact with him was like pulling teeth. "But Scott... what happened last night..."

"Won't happen again," Scott states flatly. "I'm fine."

"You're not fine!"

"No, I'm a loony, right?"

"That's not what I meant and you know it." Rick looks at Scott sternly. "Now I'm trying to give you the best option here."

Scott tucks his knees up close to his chest, remaining stubborn. "It's an option. That means I have a choice. And I don't want to stay there. I want to stay home... or here... but not there."

Rick sighs, giving up. "Alright. You don't have to stay. But will you go see her?"

Scott shrugs.

"I thought we talked about this." Rick tries to look Scott in the eye, but his younger friend refuses.

"Maybe I changed my mind."

"You said yourself that you knew you needed some help. Don't you want to feel better? Don't you want to get rid of this nightmare?"

Scott swallows hard and shrugs. One minute he wanted to go to the counselor, and the next he was terrified of it. "Fine."

"Alright then." Rick gets to his feet. "We're going to do this then. And you're going to give it your best shot, because I know you can."

Turning, he heads for his desk, picking up the phone.

Not really wanting to hear the conversation, while Rick's back is turned, Scott slides off the bed. At least he was dressed for the day... he'd gotten that much accomplished by noon.

Padding quietly in his bare feet, he slips out into the hall. Squinting in the brighter hall lights, he looks down both ways, seeing no one. He didn't know what he was doing... he knew Austin was around here somewhere and that was a scary thought, but he just wanted to get out of the infirmary and out of Rick's sight for two minutes.

Taking a deep breath, he walks slowly, keeping one hand running on the wall as if looking for security. Without Domino, he didn't have any security at all.

Not knowing why, he finds himself stopped outside his old office once again, glancing in on Dalton.


"Hi, Miss Garrison. This is Rick Johnston, from the Elite. I visited the other day." Rick cradles the phone between his shoulder and chin. "I just spoke with Scott, and... he's willing to come see you. He doesn't want to stay, even though I wanted him to after an episode last night when he just about got his wish to die." He sighs deeply. "But at this point, I'll take what I can get. I'd like to set up his first visit."

Cars

Ya I am gonna finish up with Wyatt here and whatnot if your still there when I am done and even if not I'll find ya to hang out with for a bit.

Letting out a sigh Katie's eyes follow Ty as he makes his way down the street. She didnt know what alse to do. Everything seemed to be falling apary. If it wasnt Scott it was something alse. Austin sure had mad a good mess of things. Letting out her own sigh and a shrug she turns back to

" There's nothing alse we can do. Once a Henson is stubborn you cant pull you just have to let them work it out and be there for him."

Shaking her head again Katie gets into Wyatt's truck.

"Lets follow him a safe distiance back just to make sure he is going to be ok for a little bit Wyatt."

As Ty goes one way down the street a slim fingure with curly brown hair moves up the other way quickly.

Looking behind her as if exspecting someone to be chasing her she bumps into Ty. Turning around and walking back words she calls to him.

"Sorry about that I didnt see you."

Turning back the other way she continues to move disapearing around the courner right as a nother figure moves past Ty in the same direction.

Giggling just a little for a moment Misty can see the old Carson as her arms wrap around him. As quick as it came it went. Misty wasnt sure what it ment, but if she held out, maybe the old Carson would be back. The one she had grown to love. For now she would love to love this Carson do he was the same person after all.

Curling her finger around his she gives a small shiver as the cold wind blows. Just now she had relized how cold it was.

"Lunch sounds great Carson..."

Misty smiles up at him as they walk.

"...as long as I can drive its starting to get colder out. Though being next to you I think I have enough heat."

Quirking a smile at Axel Jess cant but give a small giggle one that held a bit of nervouseness but not showing she was uncomfortable as the slight bit of flirtation in Axel's voice. Feeling a bit of color come to her cheeks Jess follows Axel into the back.

"Now I guess I can see what kind of real job a rainbow has."

Watching Axel Jess is relitivly quiet though she leans in the van with him touching a few things here and there, and even grabbing a rag to whipe off her own hands once or twice.

"Did you check the carbarator on this baby it looks like its warped a little."

Jess leans in a little closer to take a look but than relizes what she did and backs up a little. Pointing to the bolt on the top.

"See its warped, and looks ready to pop off. One would assume that might be one of the problems."

Looking to Axel she gives small smile and than backs up a few feet just letting him work.

Jabber

Because he's a lowlife, that's why.

Jason's words are riddled with anger and a burning hate. He steps back into his house after having Trooper out, and shakes his head.

As far as low self-esteem goes, Ty just needs a swift kick. He's just feeling sorry for himself. As far as me...

He grabs a light jacket and his keys.

I'm going to go check on Scott. Then after that I'll probably waste some time down at Mom and Pop's. If you want to catch up to me anywhere in there, it's fine.

Though "fine" didn't sound too convincing, Jason's eager emotions proved that he did want Katie's company, even if his mood didn't match.


Ty grits his teeth as Katie talks, unwilling to turn and look at her. "I'm not learning well," he mutters. "I'm not learning at all."

Despite his anger though, Katie's softer tone starts to bring him back down.. "You think I don't know the world is a big place? I've explored plenty. Remember where you found me?" He shakes his head. "I'm not scared of it, Katie. I simply don't fit in it."

Hearing Katie's final statements, Ty finally turns his head towards her, rolling his eyes. "Oh yeah... my brother getting his girlfriend pregnant... that's exciting all right. Maybe I'm not the stupid one after all." He shakes his head. "You may think this is a great time for a vacation, but you still got a job to return to, remember? I don't. I can't afford a trip even if I wanted it, which I don't."

"Well I can't afford a trip either," Wyatt states flatly as he rejoins them. "Not after bailing you out. Now come on."

The old Henson stubbornness shines through as Ty refuses to get up, proving beyond a doubt that he was indeed Jim's son.

"Ty," Wyatt warns. "If you know what's good for you, you get up off your sorry hind end and come with us."

As the officer unlocks the cell, Ty finally gets to his feet and trudges out, leading the way back down the hall. Within minutes, all three are back outside. But instead of heading to Wyatt's jeep, Ty turns and starts down the sidewalk.

Wyatt pauses by his door handle, looking after him in confusion. "Now what?"

"What do you care?" Ty turns around to talk as he walks backwards. "I'll not be babysat."

"Well where are you going?"

"For me to know."

"Ty!" Wyatt throws up his arms as Ty turns back around and continues his route away from the station. He groans and looks to Katie. "I don't know what more we can do."


Carson's heart skips a beat as Misty speaks, his pulse quickening even more as she draws closer to him once again. Feeling her arms around him... her warm breath on his skin... smelling her sweet hair... It enveloped all his senses.

Returning her kiss, he slides his arms further around her, one hand caressing the side of her face as his thumb runs down her cheek.

Pulling away slightly, he whispers, as if almost afraid this moment didn't really exist. "I've missed you too...so much." Returning his lips to hers, he lets a sweet kiss linger, his inner being feeling as though at last he's receiving the long drink of water he's thirsted for for oh so long.

Gently withdrawing, he keeps his hand to her face, just looking in her eyes again, making sure that this was real... that he really was getting another chance. A crooked grin surfaces and he moves to pull Misty into a rough hug. "Some Aussies are blessed with stupidity... at least this one was blessed with you in spite of it."

Still grinning, he stands up, taking Misty by the hand. "I'll treat you to lunch, if you let me..."


A grin finally escapes to accent Axel's face, just letting silence rule for a moment, returning Jess' gaze fearlessly. Letting his eyes remain on hers, he just waits, witholding words until finally she drops her own gaze. Almost chuckling but not quite, he puts his watch away.

"Well... I guess I haven't seen a car that could tell time yet. And I guess storm clouds can roll in at any time of the day, can't they?"

Grabbing a rag, he tries to get some of the grease off his fingers, but it just doesn't work, proving the stains would be there for a while.

"So..." He cocks his head and looks back up at Jess. "The boss is gone today."

He pauses, almost as if assuming she would know what that meant, before he goes on. "And since by now you probably have the magazines in there memorized..."

He shrugs and starts to amble back to the van. "You can come help keep Leo out of my hair." Turning around, he throws her an intentional crooked grin. "Or at least keep me company so I don't have to listen to his jabber."