Build

Stopping suddenly Alice has to take a few steps back to retrace and become even with Kyle again. Just staring back at him while he looks to her she can feel the smile grow a tiny bit on her face. Not only was Kyle describing her but he was describing himself as well.

Feeling the rain start to fall Alice dosnt mind it. The refreshing droplets felt nice on her skin even if it was cold out. Listing to Kyle she just soaks is up as he just continues to talk to her freely, noding her head everyone in a while letting him know she was in fact listing.

"Sometimes its easyer to talk to people who have no idea who they are because they wont judge us, or sometimes because we never will have to see them again."

As it starts to rain harder Alice follows Kyle to the sheltered area. Looking out at the rain falling Alice is almost lost in through as she still listen to Kyle talk. Folding her arms on the table she just looks over the table at Kyle.

"You know, desitions can be hard things. We never know if we are making the right ones are not, but the best way to judge them is if they feel right. I am sure your friends will understand whatever desition you make. Sure they might be upset at first but in the end they will give you there sapport."

Repositioning herself on the hard hard bench Alice sits so she is strattling the bench first and than brings her legs up to fold them indian style. Just watching the rain fall for a moment the breeze that came along with it was cold but felt good on her skin.

Seeing Kyle move out of the courner of her eye she turns her head to watching. Giving a chuckle as he stepped out into the rain Alice just shakes her head not even bothering trying to talk to him knowing he probley wouldnt hear her anyways.

Finally unfolding her legs and seeing Kyle lay on the sidewalk Alice just cocks her head for a moment. Slowly standing up she takes a few steps forward out from underneath the dry shelter herself letting the cold drops soak her to the bone. Whiping her hair out of her face she makes her way over to where Kyle layed. Slowly lowering herself down next to him Alice lays out flat the same way Kyle was.

As the rain hits her in the face she finally makes out some words yelling them for Kyle to hear.

"You know, when you burns some bridges..."

Alice turns her head and squints to look at Kyle through the rain."

"...God always makes the opertunity to build new ones."

Torn

Kyle just listens for a few minutes, not showing a whole lot of reaction, though it's evident by his face that he's surprised at some of Alice's words, and truly contemplating them.

Glancing at the picture of her, a smile quirks his mouth and he continues to listen. Letting her talk, his eyes roam the park, realizing that everything had become gray and not as many people were around. A look upward made him realize that clouds had rolled in. The scent of rain was in the air.

Bringing his focus back to Alice, he suddenly just stops walking and turns to look at her. "You're very insightful," he muses. "More so than I'd like, because you see way too much of me just by looking in my eyes. I'm tempted to be intimidated... but it's just not my nature. At least let me get even, though."

He falls silent, staring into her eyes, just studying and searching. His voice grows quiet. "You see so much... you look into people's hearts. That's uncommon for someone in your line of work. But it doesn't bother you, does it? You like being the odd one... the rebel, perhaps. It doesn't scare you to be the first to venture into the unknown."

A raindrop splashes on Kyle's face and he blinks, looking up at the sky again. Thinking quickly, he gestures to a nearby shelter. A few picnic tables were under the roof, and he straddles one of the benches, waiting for Alice to sit down too.

"I don't know why I'm telling you all this," he admits. "I shouldn't, if I know what's good for me. But... for some reason I trust you."

He runs his thumb along the wood grain of the table. "I don't know what I want, Alice. I don't know where I'm going, or what I even want to happen. I love JetStream. I always have. Not just because part of it's family, but because I love the teamwork and the performances. But nothing felt like singing for Cryptic the other night either. I've never felt so good after a show. For the first time, I felt I could finally just be me... I didn't have to worry about showing anybody up or stepping on toes."

He rolls his eyes. "Not that I think I'm all that, or the greatest or whatever. But I've never been all I could be... not with JetStream anyway. There was always somebody else in the front, and I figured my place was in the background. Sure, I sing some with them, but not like I did with Cryptic."

Kyle pauses, looking out as a slow rain starts. "And now..." He shrugs in defeat. "Don't print this, but Logan might be pulling out of Cryptic and moving on to other things. If that happens, they want me to take his place. But that leaves JetStream without a keyboard player, unless I deal with both bands. But the way JetStream reacted the other night... I don't think doing that is the best answer. So the only way not to make waves is just settle back to where I was, behind the keyboard and only behind the keyboard."

Again, he pauses. It was apparent he really had thought these things through. "I know that I can't always worry about what other people think, but they're my friends. And if I have to sacrifice something in order to keep those friendships strong, then..."

His voice trails off, and he's not even able to finish it. A scoffing laugh surfaces. "What am I saying?" He shakes his head and looks up at the shelter's rafters. "I'm miserable. And to top it all off, I've got an offer to hit the road with a group of people that has absolutely nothing to do with music. I want to get away from here so bad I can taste it. But what bridges will I be burning by doing that? I don't even know what my passions are anymore."

A downpour comes in answer to his statement, making it almost hard to hear under the roof. The rain comes down in sheets, the visibility not even allowing one to see across the park.

Kyle looks out at it, and slowly a quirky grin forms. Getting up, he steps out into the cold rain. With the moisture came a cooler temperature, and he could see his own breath in the air. Spreading out his arms, he spins under the cloudburst, not caring that he was getting totally drenched. His denim jacket is soaked within seconds, his hair matted and dripping with water.

Backing up away from the shelter, without a care as to who might be watching, Kyle lowers himself to the sidewalk and lets himself fall backward until he was lying straight out, his arms out to the sides.

Letting out a loud whoop, followed by a laugh, he just stays on the ground, soaking up the moisture. Face-up under the rain, he closes his eyes, the smile still on his face as he gets pelted with the cold rain.

I think

Alice slowly sits down her legs crossed on a nice patch of grass as she looks up at Kyle. Still listing closely she takes everything in only jotting down a few things. Her mind was like taking a picture she could remember words well and things that were by someone just saying a simple word.

Once she see Kyle start to walk again Alice jumps up and makes her way to catch up alone side of him. His energy was amazing even if it was a sugar high. Alice had to addmit it to herself it was nice to see someone alse who could keep up with her.

Hearing Kyle talk about his selfworth Alice frowns just a little bit. What could cause someone who was so full of life to think so little of themself liks this. Without even thinking about how bold it was Alice just starts to talk.

"You know Kyle, finding if someone is special or not depends on who is looking at you. Worth, is not skin deep it goes far deeper than that. If you have made a person smile, made a person love than you are worth alot. Your worth more than you know, and I find you very intresting."

For a moment Alice is quiet but than before Kyle can say anything she continues.

"What I want to get from this, is to get to know a side of Kyle Mitts than most people done care to see. Thats why I love my job. I get to look into people and things, I get to pick about the bad and the good and it helps me get to know, and understand a person better. I get to see the finer side of someone that everyone alse dosnt have time to and than I write it all out, I put it into words so others can shair what I have found out and seen. Your fasanating Kyle, and your intresting even if you think your life is boring. The finer side to you, is amazing."

Looking away Alice fiddles with her bad for a moment and than pulls out a small picture of herself from back in her highschool days when she was in the drama club. Holding it out to Kyle she smiles.

"You know back than I though I was going to be an actress. I love acting out words, and putting my own emotions to them. Than I hit a bump in the road and I was confused in what to do next. I started writing not thinking it would amount to anything. But than I relized I liked writing the words more than acting them. I liked giving emotion another way."

Leting out a sigh Alice puts the photo back into her bag and for a moment is silent as she relives her days of past.

"You see...even now I am not sure where I am headed and if this is what I will do for the rest of my life. I cant only hope. But if I step away at least I know I tryed and if this truly is what I am ment to do God will show me the way back. You gotta take those chanses and make those risks even if you know other wont agree so your gonna be stuck not going anywhere. I think, after the short time I have spent here with you, your gonna make it big someday if you just give yourself more credit than you do, and you start worrying about you more than anyone alse."

don't understand

Kyle grins and accepts the twinkie, shaking his head. "Fair warning - giving me sugar is not always a wise thing to do. But I'm not gonna stand here with my stomach interrupting us."

Unwrapping the plastic, he listens to Alice. He takes a bite of the treat, then cocks his head as he chews, one eye squinting a little as he tries to figure her out. This really was about him... He hadn't thought it would be. But it was becoming apparent by Alice's questions that it really was him she wanted to know about - not just the band. He couldn't help but be a little flattered, though he still didn't believe there was enough interesting things about him to really be making this big a deal out of it.

"Emotional side, eh?" He pauses again to finish the twinkie, stuffing the wrapper in his pocket until later when he'd find a trash can.

Kyle folds his arms across his chest, still leaning back against the tree. He never really talked to the others about how things felt. They wouldn't always understand, and he never had wanted anybody to get the wrong idea about what he was saying. They all assumed things were great, so he'd always just let them be happy and think that way. But Alice was just looking for facts, and there was no worry there about making anyone feel bad.

"You know when you find right where you're supposed to be? Like, you find your ultimate niche?" Kyle nods. "That's how it feels to be onstage. I've never been scared of it, never been nervous about it. It's in my blood, and it's hard to live without. The crowd is exciting, and getting out there to see them the first time at an event is the best adrenaline rush you could ever have. It's like being on a rollercoaster without ever having to leave the ground."

He gives a little sigh. His eyes showed a contentedness, but some turmoil as well. "The best moment? There have been two." He knew them so well. He never talked about him, but oh, he remembered them.

"When the band was just getting started, our first "real" gig was at this same park. We were the intro for a bigger band. It was the only time my dad got to see us perform like that. I remember looking out and seeing his face. He was so proud that we'd made it. And today I understand that part of it was probably because we were doing something he'd always had a dream about."

Kyle fall silent for a moment, not appreciating his own melancholy. He moves on quickly. "The other time was after a show a couple years ago. We'd played quite a few Christian songs that night and... she came up to me afterward and thanked me. Said she'd been going through a rough time, and the songs had really touched her. I knew then that I'd never take God out of a show. I don't always know what people really think, or if they really enjoy that style of music or worship, but... one time... one time was enough."

Pushing off the tree, Kyle starts to walk again, letting humor rescue him from the moment. "I'm hitting a sugar high. If I don't walk, you'll have to contend with me trying to stand still."

Forcing a grin, he shakes his head. "I don't know why you're so interested in me, let alone outside of the band. Karate is a hobby, layout and design is a hobby, and as of yesterday, don't even have a job. So... I'm nothing special, Alice. There are others out there who carry much more intriguing, much more worthy stories than me. Besides, I don't know where I'm going or what I'll even be doing two weeks from now. I got an offer for..."

His voice trails off as he realizes he may have said too much. "I just... I don't understand what you're wanting from all this."


For some reason, the grimace on Jess' face when talking about liver just hits Axel the right way. A laugh surfaces - something that not many people ever got to hear. "As long as you don't make me eat it, I won't make you eat it either."


Carson bursts through the front door of Mom and Pop's, not even bothering to use the back entrance. He knew he'd told Herb he'd be a little late this morning, but not this late. He'd enjoyed his morning with Misty so much though, that he'd had to pry himself away. At least there weren't that many customers yet today.

Jogging to the counter, he sees an opening between Mable and Aerith. Vaulting over the counter, he lands, grabs Aerith, and sweeps her into a dip. "Good morning and thank you for covering for me."

Setting her upright, he leans over to give Mable a peck on the cheek. "And good morning to you too, my dear lady. Have you kept your husband in line this morning?"

Carson grins and winks at her before heading through the double-doors. "Herb! Help has arrived!"

More about you

Alice intently listens to Kyle as he talks. Taking a few moments here and there to take her eyes from him and jot things down on her note pad. Walking and talking with him was nice she enjoyed it and listing to him talk was just as exciting. This was something she loved to do and enjoyed.

Continuing to listen and stop and go in rhythm with Kyle all her questions had been answered to a T though the few things she was looking for being left out, his emotions, his feeling. No matter his answer he dodged around it though his eyes betrayed him and she could see the emotions wanting to come out.

Alice dosnt mind as they slip off the bath. They had been walking for quite a while and it felt good to now stop. Taking a space in the shade she faces Kyle looking down at her note pad for a moment writing some more stuff down before looking up at him again and giving a soft giggle before pulling a few twinkies out of her bag. Offering one to Kyle she smile.

"I know its not much but it might be something to curve that hunger in your tummy because I am talking to you not him."

Alice cant help but laugh her he own stupid joke now figuring how stupid it probley sounded to Kyle.

"So, you answered all my question but now I think I want to know more of the emotional side of everything. Like how does it feel for you to be on stage, and what are some of the best moments you have had, whats the energy like up there. I could only imagen its quite exciting."

Drawing silent again Alice just studys Kyle for a long moment. There was something about him that made Alice for curiouse and intrested, just something about this man standing infront of her that made her want to know what it was. She found him intresting when he had hardly even said anything about himself.

"Also if you could tell me a little about yourself outside the band. Like what are some things you like to do, hobbies, where you work and stuff like that?!"

Alice holds her smile as she continues to listen to Kyle and intently watch him. Her eyes sparkling as her enthuseasum and spunk shown through for what she loved to do.

Jess lets out a playful gasp at Axel's comment. Her eyes gave a small sparkle.

"How could you say I was lying. I remember our actions but not really what we were talking about so there..."

After the words were out of her mouth Jess eyes grow just a little as color comes to her face for her boldness with Axel. Sitting back in the booth for a moment she is silent. Finally as her color goes back to normal Jess speaks again.

"Well at least your not picky. I figured you would like what I had because who does like eggs and bacon right? Ha, I'm not really that picky myself only thing you will never get me to touch is liver."

Making a face one could tell who didnt know the conversation something was said that Jess didnt like. Than after she gives a laugh. Today she felt more comfortable with Axel than she had days before. Maybe the more time she spent with him the more comfrotable she was or maybe spending the time she had with Rocky had helped her open up just a little more.

Craziest

Kyle gives a little chuckle, amused with the spark in Alice's eye and her comment about it sounding as if he'd just woken up. "You caught me."

Moving forward, he falls in step beside her, his thumbs hooked in his jeans pocket, leaving his denim jacket open, despite a cool breeze. He listens to her questions, digesting them for a moment.

A grin emerges. This was something new. Something out of the ordinary. So much had been so full of stress lately, but for some reason... right now, walking along with someone he didn't even know, it was surprisingly peaceful. He'd expected to be on edge around Alice - anyone who was curious enough to ask all the questions no one else would was enough to turn anybody off. But despite her questions, she had something about her... something that was... different... different enough that Kyle could feel it.

"Well, I don't know why you're so interested in me. I'm certainly not the most important part in either band, but... I'll bite."

He thinks for a moment, collecting his thoughts. "I'm the craziest of the bunch - anybody will tell you that. Always been that way and yes... I grew up here, and have lived here all my life. It's where my family is. You know Phil - JetStream's bass player - he's my brother. And Jen - the woman who run sounds - she's my twin sister."

All of a sudden, a frisbee comes flying out of nowhere, aiming at their heads. Reflexes cause Kyle to lash out and catch it with speed. Looking around, he sees a group of kids nearby, and rolls his eyes. Good-natured though, he throws it back to them with accuracy. Shaking his head, he starts walking again.

"My family has always been very musical, so I've been into music since I was a little kid. I started piano lessons when I was about five and fell in love with the keyboard. By junior high, me and Phil were already trying to come up with some of our own stuff to play - he liked the bass. We met Mike in school and he was already into the drums, so... we kinda had a garage band going for a while. Just kid stuff, ya know?"

It had been a long time since Kyle had thought about some of these things. There was happiness there... and a little bit of pain too. He looks down for a moment, watching his tennis shoes cover the distance of the sidewalk that wound around the park.

"Well, we wound up getting a singer off and on. Sometimes they played guitar, sometimes they didn't. But we just fooled around for a while, played in school a few times. We, um..."

Kyle's mind drifts to the hard times they had gone through. Phil's rough bout... their dad dying... Mike's wife and child dying... He shakes his head a little, trying to stay on track.

"There were downs," he admitted. "A few times we quit playing just because life got in the way. At some point we took on the name JetStream and Jen learned about running sound. We... started getting a few local gigs and... took it from there."

He shrugs, not knowing what else to say there. "Last year, Jason joined us. We had a fundraiser to play at, but we lost our lead singer. We just about canceled, but he came along and I guess the rest is history as far as that's concerned. Ever since he walked out on stage with us, the band hasn't been the same, and I mean in a good way. The audience loves him and he's added so much."

Kyle didn't mind singing Jason's praises. As far as he was concerned, Jason really had been the glue to hold the band together lately. "If anybody should be interviewed, it's him," he comments. "He's probably had the most interesting life, not to mention, he's probably the most talented of all of us. If you really want a good story, you should call him up, not me."

He pauses, making sure he gets everything. "Katie came along right after Jason, since he was in law enforcement and so is she, so she took up the role of watching our backs. We decided as a band that it was worth the risk. So far we haven't had any incidents to speak of."

Stepping off the path, Kyle leans back against a tree so he can face Alice, and for a moment, he just studies her face before getting back on track.

"We were friends with the guys and girl in Cryptic from school. We hung out, did some music events together, but we just naturally split up into our two groups. Difference of music tastes, and different friendships. I really don't know the ins and outs of their band, but they started in a similar way to JetStream. A while back though, they were doing well enough to get a contract and travel. They hit the road and they'd have to tell you about their adventures there. I guess they picked up their sound guy, Axel only about a year ago, but otherwise they're all the original group still together."

He pauses again and finally just shrugs. "Logan, their lead singer, was sick the other night, so I just filled in for him. That's the only reason I wound up on stage with them, if that's what you noticed."

A dog barking is a distraction and Kyle's eyes roam the park for a moment. Time was passing quickly, even though he was really summarizing everything. There were so many details he'd left out... he'd left almost all emotion out of everything he'd said, never talking about how he felt. It was just facts. But he knew Alice wouldn't want to be here all day.

His hands in his pockets, he shakes his head a little. "I don't know what you want the conclusion of this one story to be, but I don't know what the future looks like, Alice. You may think my transition between bands was fascinating, but not everybody shares that interest."

Though he tries to hide it, it's obvious by his eyes that there had been a lot more downs than ups lately, whether in the band, or just for him personally. He can feel his tone getting sharp, and makes an effort to soften it out again. His growling stomach gives him the humorous outlet he needs, and he gives a little laugh.

"Guess my stomach doesn't share much interest either." He cocks his head. "Did I answer all your questions?"


Axel's eyes narrow, though there is a humorous glint as he stares at Jess after her statement that she didn't remember where they'd been. "Liar," he accuses. But a knowing grin breaks through. He would respect any time that Jess withdrew. His was not to push, but to wait and watch the bloom.

"Thanks for ordering." He nods. "I like just about anything, so that's great."


"How we doing back there?"

Luke looks up the aisle to where Gunner was looking back from the pilot's cabin. "We're alright."

Jeff glances to his friend who was trying to stretch out in the small plane. "What's it looking like, Gunner?"

"Making good time. We'll get ya there, don't worry."

I think..

Keeping her smile up Alice's eyes give a small twinkle. So much life filled them and joy. For being alive, for doing what she loved she just loved life as a whole.

"It's not a problem. You sounded half a sleep this morning still so I figured you had just woken up."

Giving a nod to the side Alice signals for now she would walk with Kyle and talk. It was a nice yet chill and streching her legs would be good after sitting in the office all day.

Staying silent for a short minute to just let the momet sink in and what she was doing here hand in the air Alice finally speaks.

"So Kyle can you tell me a little bit about your experiences with JetStream and Cryptic? Maybe some of the ups and down, how you got into music, how you got to meet all the band members and how long you have been with them? Did you grow up here in Nevada? I'd like to really the whole story if I could about you."

While walking Alice watching Kyle intently never meeting a beat of what he said. This certinly was going to be exciting, and follow Kyle and the bands would be even better. This would be a nice change and exciting to read.

As soon as Axel leaves the table the waitress comes over. Glancing at her menu for a moment Jess orders something simple eggs, bacon and toast and gets an extra one for Axel as well in case he wanted anything.

Sitting in silence for a long while Jess' mind starts to think about many things her eyes moving to the window to look out getting lost in thought. Her feelings and how she felt with the few friendships she had formed. Though Axel had said alot of nice things about her it was hard to believe them. For so long she had been talked down, and kicked around it was hard to think of it any other way. Would she ever believe the good things some people had started to tell her.

As Axel's voice breaks through the darkness of her own though Jess turns her head and gives a small smile once again and a small grunt that resembled a chuckle.

"I am not even sure where we left off...I think..."

Jess can feel her hand twitch a little bit, she new they had been holding hands and the strange tingle she had felt when they were was nice. How she wanted to say thats where they were and take his hand again so the warmth, and feeling of someone being there was present againbut thinking better of it she keeps her hands infront of her on the table.

"...nope...I dont remember. However I did order you some breakfest. I got you the same thing I did because I wasnt sure what you wanted. I hope its ok.

The still darkness in the hotel room Angel stays under the covers. Caught between half awake and half asleep her dreams fad in and out. Of life before the ranch stuff she hadnt thought about in many many years. Memories come of times a past, when she met Luke, when Trent had been the one she though she would spend her life with. The thought of Luke enters her mind and she could almost hear his voice telling her to hold on. How things had changed and how her bestfriend had turned into the mad she love more than anything. She had to hold on...if only for a little whole longer she had to see his face again, she had to tell him how she felt.

A cold chill pass through Angel as she pulls the cover up over her even more. She felt so cold yet so warm at the same time. How sick she felt, how much it hurt. Luke please hurry.

Pilot

Though never having met her, as soon as Kyle sees Alice, he knows it's her. Just something about her, he had no doubts, and he was proven right when she approaches.

He offers a smile and gives her hand a firm shake. "Nice to meet you." Before anything else can be said, he starts in again. "Look, I'm sorry if I was a bit short with you on the phone. It's been a rough week, but that's no excuse, so I apologize. I really am grateful for any attention the band gets."

Kyle genuinely did care about JetStream and making a good impression for the band. Though Alice had just mentioned him on the phone, he could only assume it was really about the band as a whole. Maybe she was even interviewing someone from Cryptic - he didn't know. But there was certainly a whole lot more interesting things to talk about concerning the band than just the little stunt he'd pulled at the concert. Surely this was just a one-time interview that would simply give JetStream some exposure. His own role was small, and he certainly didn't feel like much of what he'd done deserved any hype - all it had done was get him into trouble.

"You get to call the shots," he offers. "We can walk or sit, and I'm ready to answer any questions you have."


Axel's mouth upturns slightly. "You deserve to be made to feel good," he responds quietly. He starts to say more, but a digital ring interrupts them. He gives a little sigh, tempted not to answer his cell phone. "It's Joel."

His eyes give away that he really didn't want to talk to anyone right now, but he knew he should. Finally he lets go of Jess' hands and reaches for the phone in his pocket. "Hey, Joel."

"Axel! Good morning. Hey, listen... we got a band meeting tonight."

"Yeah... I knew that."

"Well, Taylor's backed out again."

Axel cringes a little. "Oh?"

"Yeah... look... I know you said she and her had a little misunderstanding or something the night of the concert and... well... I don't want to stick my nose in, but was it more like an argument or something? This just isn't like her, and I know she's not sick."

Axel strums his fingers on the table, knowing that color had seeped into his face as he doesn't look at Jess. "Um. Maybe. Look... I'll call her alright?"

"Thanks, man."

"Yeah sure..."

"Later."

"Yeah." Axel hangs up, giving another sigh. After several awkward seconds, he looks back up at Jess. "Excuse me for just a minute. Go ahead and order... on me today." He forces a smile before rising and walks several feet away near the door. Dialing, he waits, then hears Taylor's answering machine pick up. Well, maybe it was better this way. "Taylor, it's Axel. Listen, I'm sorry. I know you've been avoiding the band because of me. I didn't mean to hurt your feelings. I don't know if you don't want to ever see me again or what, but I do still want to be your friend. I'm willing to forget about what happened if you are. So..." He lamely fishes for something else to say. "See ya later. Bye."

Axel felt like a fool. That hadn't come out the way he'd wanted it to at all. But it would have to do now. He couldn't make Taylor change the way she felt, and if she was too embarrassed now to face him, or too afraid he was mad at her, then there wasn't much else he could do. Hopefully she would move on and they could forget the whole thing. He didn't want to tell the other guys about it, for fear of just making Taylor feel worse.

"Sorry about that." Axel slides into the booth across from Jess again. His eyes show a new weariness in them, but he overcomes it with a bit of a grin. "Where were we?"


"Gunner!"

Gunner jumps up from his chair, grabs the shotgun and whirls around all in one movement, taken completely off guard by Jeff bursting through the cabin door.

"Whoa!" Jeff holds up his hands. "It's just me."

"Dude, you scared the crap out of me." Gunner lowers his weapon. "What's wrong?"

"Not really sure, but something is wrong with Angel, and Luke needs to get to Nevada, and fast. I know we're not part of the Elite, but you think we could piggy-back on some security clearance to get us there?"

Gunner grins. "You bet. Get somebody to stay her on duty to watch the cameras, and I'll even get Luke there myself."

"Sparky already volunteered. I'm going to come along with Luke to give him a hand if he needs it."

"Great. As far as I know, there's a TJY plane at the airport, but the pilot is on leave." Gunner is already hunting for his ID and throwing things into his backpack. "But I don't have a pilot's license for nothing. I'll pull a couple strings with the airport to get clearance and it will be a whole lot faster than waiting for a pilot."

"Fantastic." Jeff moves to head back to the ranch. "I'll get Sparky," he hollers over his shoulder. "Meet us at the messhall, I'll drive the truck."

Meeting

A bit of color comes to Jess face at Axel's comment. He did make her feel good. Her smile spreading Jess has to look away but not because she was uncomfortable this but because the smile and a small chuckle was hard to contain.

"Thanks for making me feel good Axel."

As Axel brings his hand to her face Jess dosnt cringe away or flinch at all but insted closes her eyes enjoying the moment. Axel's hand felt so warm and comforting on her skin.

Pulling into the parking lot Alice scans the area from inside her car till her sights land on Kyle. Grabbing her pen and pad of paper she steps out of the car. Her shoulder lagnth light brown hair layed in ringlits. Her blue eyes pin pointing her target. Zipping up her sweater jacket she starts twords him giving a small smile. Reaching him she offers her hand introducing herself.

"I'm Alice Whitt, thank you so much for meeting with me. I was about to give up hope you would ever call me back."

Listing to Luke Angel cringes just a little bit. She'd been foolish not to see Luke she was sick and now she felt worse than ever hearing the worryed tone in his voice. Finally giving a nod even though Luke cant see her Angel agrees.

"Ok, if anyone comes calling today I will feel them in on whats going on. Other than that I am not going to go out of my way and call over there. There was some big meeting going on this morning and I have no idea when it will be over. I dont want to bother anyone."

Sinking back down on the hotel bed Angel leans back as she continues to listen. Hearing the confadince in Luke's voice helped give her hope that maybe there was something they could do even if it was to only hold this thing off for a little bit.

"Alright I will be at the hotel resting. I am at the Old Station Inn room 302. I love you to Luke and see you soon."

Haning up Angel lets out a long sigh. What was going to happen or what was to come she didnt know. For so long she had given hope to those who needed it and now when she needed the help she was helpless.

Closing her eyes for only a moment Angel is soon fast asleep as the exsaustion takes over once again.

What's inside

Relief passes through Axel's eyes, even if he wasn't ready yet to tell her what was so heavy in his heart. His gaze told her they appreciated her words, and the trust she had put in him so quickly.

Hearing her final statement, he shakes his head just a little. "Aw, Jess... your self worth has nothing to do with a rainbow. It's what's inside."

Slowly... hesitantly, he lifts a hand to reach across the small table and run a finger down the side of Jess' face. "Rainbows couldn't exist if it weren't for your own light shining through those stormy clouds."

Rainbow!

Continuing to look at Axel Jess cocks her head just a little as she can feel her hand turn just a little clamey.

"You know about my past and you didnt run away. I would only show the same to you as long as you were honest with me. We all have shadows in our closet, and we all have many things we are not proud of. I wouldnt run, no I would listen, try to understand and than take it from there Axel."

Jess gives a warm smile though a little worry is in her eye. It was not for what Axel might have as a secret but it was for his own pain she saw.

"I could never turn such a bright rainbow away. For what is a storm without one, but a simple mess of emotions and no self worth."

Would you?

Axel's eyes don't move from Jess as she speaks, soaking in ever little movement, every little tone in her voice that would tell him what was going on inside her mind as she spoke.

He returns the squeeze to her hand, still not moving. "And if you knew what my past was? If there were things that would turn someone else away, would you run too?"

Fire

Looking at Axel and feeling his hand movie Jess is silent. Stairing into his eyes as he looks back at her. Giving a small nod she replys.

"Yes, I do. You've done so much to make me comfortable around you and not invade my space. I dont see how I couldnt. Not to mention, your the one who daired me to dance around the fire. Yes Axel. I trust you."

Jess gives Axel's hand a light squeeze at her ending statment as a symble that she did mean what she said.

Get Gunner

A slight grin curls the corner of Axel's mouth at Jess' statement. Still looking at her eyes, his finger moves slightly to run slowly across her thumb.

Something shone in his eyes. Something that couldn't be quickly recognized. "Jess..." His voice has changed to a questioning tone. "Do you trust me?"


Kyle rolls his eyes. He had all day. "Whenever. How about in half an hour at the city park?" He fumbles to get himself up off the floor and glances around for any bits and pieces of clean clothing left before he did laundry. Getting the okay from Alice, he shuts his phone and goes to take a quick shower. No use in looking like a bum even if his disheveled appearance was how he was feeling on the inside. Popping a couple pills before a breakfast of a can of pop, his late morning proceeds until he's out the door.

The park is quiet today. Not a whole lot of people out and about. Kyle finds a tree to stand under where he could see the parking lot. He had no idea what this Alice woman looked like, but apparently she knew him, so he'd just wait for her to come to him.


Luke exchanges Angel's warm enthusiasm for getting to talk to her, but then falls silent as she breaks the news to him. His pulse quickens and he can feel the blood drain from his face as his grip on the phone tightens.

Jim looks up from his position on the bed, just pulling through the last stitch in Luke's knee. He glances to Luke with concern, but his friend isn't even paying any attention. "What is it?" he asks quietly. No response.

Jeff hands Jim a towel to wipe the blood off his hands with, his face also showing concern for Luke's sudden tension.

Luke's jaw muscles tighten as Angel finishes. He didn't even know what to say. Of course he was upset she hadn't told him. He didn't understand her reasoning. Everybody had problems - why hadn't she confided in him? It was a rotten feeling. Worse though, was his worry. If Angel didn't know what was wrong with her and those in Nevada didn't know...

"Angel..." His voice is low but stern. "I don't want you to even think about asking me ever again if I hate you."

Jeff and Jim exchange another glance. Jim starts to wrap a bandage around Luke's knee, trying not to listen to the private call. "You want us to leave?" he questions.

Luke finally looks to him and shakes his head, giving both men a look that they better stay there. He continues to talk to Angel. "I'm sorry you didn't tell me sooner... but that's over and done now. What I want you to do now is stay where you are."

Seeing Jim finished with the bandage, he moves to swing his legs out of bed. Jim tries to stop him, but he throws him a glare, ignoring the pain in his side. "I don't want you traveling," Luke emphasizes to Angel. "And I don't want you keeping this a secret from people over there. I'm not going to tell Wendy yet... not until I see you first."

Jim's eyes widen, his voice a hoarse whisper. "You're not traveling either, you idiot."

Luke stands up, needing to reach out and take Jim's shoulder for support, though his concentration is still on the phone. "Just rest, alright?" His tone softens. "I love you, Angel. We'll figure this out. Nothing is going to happen."

Not allowing for any more conversation, Luke ends the call, then turns to his friends. "Get Gunner. I need to get to Nevada."

Walk away

The silence is nice and Jess dosent mind it one bit. It was nice to just take in the moment, and listen to each breath that was formed. Jess like it this way. Talk when needed or when they felt like it, silence any other time.

As Axel takes her hands Jess just looks down at them for a long moment. It wasnt a strange feeling but at the same time it was a stange feeling to actully have Axel holding her hand. Jess wasnt sure if she liked it or not but it was differnt.

Not pulling away Jess just listens to Axel allowing him to hold her hand as the warmth from his own warmed her hands as well. His own touch was light, and he push much care into how he held it. Like he almost thought it was break if he handled it to rough.

Hearing his comment about her being differnt Jess is not to sure what to say. She had never has someone say that to her before and it kind of took her off guard. Looking up Jess' eyes meet Axel's again. Just looking into them for a long moment Jess finally find a few words to say.

"Differnt I am, I guess I am a storm that like to move to a differnt tune Its not everyday after all the storm is calm enough for a ranbow to be able to get this close to it."

Looking down again a strange glint of sadness pass through Jess eyes. Lonlyness again, lost, fear, shame, maybe it was a mix of everything. Maybe it was not being able to understand why Axel thought she was differnt when she had done so much that was wrong. Just the though of it braught color to her face. How could anyone ever care for a tanted flower. Looking up again Jess trys to put on a smile again and give a nod to Axel.

"Your pretty differnt yourself Axel in more ways than one. An I like them all."

A figure makes its way through the dark of the house. Unfamilure with where everything was but manuvering the best they could.

Going to the fridge a smile forms on the face of this person as they spot a beer in the fridge. She could try to change but they new she would never change that much.

Pulling out the beer and cracking it open the figure moves once again taking note to everything and looking at the new that was being formed. Time would tell what was going to happen, time would tell that what was taken from them would be returned.

Moving papers our of the way A slender brown haired woman reaches for the ringing phone digging to find it. Finally feeling it she pulls her hand out of the stacks of papers and flips the phone open.

"Alice Walker speaking how can I help you?"

Hearing Kyle's voice on the other end of the phone a grin forms on Alice's face. She had been waiting for this phone call to come for a while and was starting to give up hope it would come. An now it had.

"..Thats great. Yes anything you dont want published Kyle I wont you have my word. Where would you like to meet and when?"

Hearing Jeff's voice Angel smiles.

"Oh I am alive. Is Luke around?"

Waiting a few moment Angel just collectes her thoughts as she waits for Luke. Finally hearing Luke's voice a small smile forms on Angels face but the lack of energy is just not behind her words.

"Hey you. Things are moving on here. I've been missing you something terrable ya know. and I LOVE you so much Luke."

Falling silent again Angel continplates tell him or not telling about what was going on. Letting out a sigh she knows she has to.

"Luke...I have something I have been hidding from you that I need to tell you about...."

Going into detail Angel informs Luke on her sickness that has been plaging her for more than two months now. Along with telling him the symtoms, and how they affected her.

"...So another reason I came to Nevada was because Misty was good with research and I was hoping maybe I could get a hold of a few of her files or something to help me figure out what this sickness is. But to no avail nothing has turned up. And for that reason alone I didnt want to tell you because you had enough to worry about and Wendy had her own problems I didnt want to add mine in the mix right away. But now there is no cure we know of and I am getting worse rappedly. I couldnt continue this with out tell you. I am scaired and I wanted to know you were there. I love you so much Luke and I have no idea how long I will have left. Do you hate me for not telling you?"

Angel's voice is quivering as you can tell tears ran from her eyes. She was scaired and now she was even scaired more that the person she loved the most might walk away.

Fine

As the times before, Axel allows Jess to work on his hand, though he's still just a little surprised at her initiative.

Listening to her talk, he nods. "Yeah, it was a bit chilly last night to have a window open."

The pause in conversation is welcomed, and his eyes simply drift to her hands as they gently rubbed his own. Her touch was soft and warm, soothing away the pain like nothing else had ever done.

Snapping back to attention, he glances up as Jess speaks again. "I'd like to work at night," he muses. "Empty shop, leaving me to the peace and quiet and my own little world. I know dealing with people is as must, but sometimes I'd just as soon go out back and work alone there."

Another silence takes over the table, and his gaze moves downward again. The ache in his hand had stopped for the time being. Taking his other hand, he stops Jess' movements, but takes her own two hands in his. For a moment, he just holds them until he finally looks up to stare into her eyes. The eyes that held so many stories. The eyes that held a fire beyond the walls, just waiting to burn again.

"I generally don't make a habit out of letting anyone close enough to help me like this," he mentions quietly. What he really meant was that he never allowed another woman to be close at all, let alone ever touch his hands. "But you're different, Jess... I haven't figured out yet what it is... but you're different."


Scott receives Dalton's words a little awkwardly at first. It still didn't really feel like his office too yet. Maybe if he was told enough times, he would get used to it.

Not sure what to do, he leans back against the wall and closes his eyes, enjoying the classical music, not objecting to it. "All my music is gone," he responds. "I miss it. No one else ever shared my tastes."

Standing nearby for several moments, he brings himself back to attention when Dalton asks for his assistance. He hesitates. Looking at the larger man, he weighs his options. He didn't really feel like he was very much capable of helping. His mind was still foggy and he still couldn't concentrate very well. But his only other option was to go back to the infirmary.

Pursing his lips, he wanders a little closer, his hands still in his pockets. Almost timidly, he comes around and looks over Dalton's shoulder. "A database, huh?" His eyes roam the computer screen, not being able to help the ideas and formulas that pop into his mind.

Without even thinking, he reaches back and pulls an extra chair closer to sit down. "Which part are you having trouble with?"


Kyle's alarm goes off for the third time, and he groans, rolling over to slap it off. But it doesn't go off. What?

Sleepily, he pulls his head out from under his pillow to look at his alarm clock. Oh. It wasn't his alarm. It was his phone.

Reaching down to the floor, he gropes under his pile of dirty clothes, grumbling to himself. Feeling too far, he loses his balances and falls out of bed with a thud. More grumbles come as he continues to look for his phone. "I gotta turn that dang thing off," he mutters.

Just when his fingers find the phone, it stops ringing. "Aw, nice." He sighs and flips it open to look at it. Not only had he just missed this call, but several others as well. He'd been ignoring them. He didn't recognize the number and hadn't wanted to take the time to listen. But who cared now?

Leaning back against the bed, he stays on the floor and listens to the first message.
My name is Alice and you dont know me but I know you... well kind of. Anyways I heard you sing at the concert recently, and I saw you play the keybored for Jetstream. The way you slipped into two different rolls was great. I am just getting into journalism and started working for the local magazine for Nevada and my first assignment was to do a report of you. So if you can give me call back sometime that would be great. Thanks, Kyle.

Kyle lifts his eyebrows. Alice, huh? That was interesting. The second message plays.
Hi Kyle, it's Alice again. Sorry to keep bothering you. I hope this is the right number after all. Just calling again to see if we could set up a time to talk. My boss still wants me to do that report on you and says I cant move on till I get it. So I am hoping you give me a call back and we can set something up. Thanks.

Now Kyle's eyes roll. Reporters. Great. That's all he needed. Did he dare listen to the third message?
Kyle, it's Alice again. I feel like I am being a nuisance and I am sure you think so too. But my boss told me it comes with the job. Anyways I was hoping to get to talk to you but once again it's a no go. Just give me a call when you can.

Kyle slaps his phone shut. Good grief. He thinks about just ignoring the whole thing. But this Alice seemed pretty doggone determined. If he didn't give her something, she'd just keep calling. He sighs. "Alright, fine," he relents aloud. Dialing, he waits until he hears the same female voice.

"Kyle Mitts," he identifies himself. He stifles a yawn as he runs a hand through his hair. "Look, I don't care if you want to do a story. I don't think there's much of anything interesting enough for anybody to care about, but do what you want... with one rule - if I say it doesn't go public, it doesn't go public." He didn't want any of the band's arguments or his rift with JetStream to get out.


Surprisingly, it's Jeff that answers the phone. "Well hi, Angel!" His greeting is warm and cheery. "We're missing you something awful around here, you know that? Keeping all these guys in line is just too much work for the ladies that are left." His laugh signals his teasing. "But I doubt you really wanted to talk to me, did you? Hang on, I'll get your hubby."

There's as bunch of shuffling noises, some muffled voices and odd background noises, but finally Luke's voice comes over the line. "Hey, you," he greets. "Been wondering when you were gonna call again. How are things in Nevada?"

Alone

Jess relaxes in the booth and glances out the window for a moment just listing to Axel. Turning back to him she gives a smile and a nod. Taking note to him running his hand Jess makes the conclusion that once again his hands were bothering him.

Reaching out and not even thinking twice about it Jess reaches over the table taking Axel's hand in hers as she gently rubs it from the palm to the fingers tips trying to make it feel better while she continues to talk.

"My morning has been alright. It was awfly cold in my apartment though. When I woke up my window in the living room was open a crack. I guess I had opened it lastnight for some fresh air and I never closed it."

Continuing to rub Axel hand Jess falls silent for a long moment letting the quiet rule like it often did with the two of them. But not minding at all it was welcomed.

"...So anyways I dont think work is going to be to busy today. When I work at night it usaly isnt. I guess I dont mind to much. It give me time to fiddle with some of the camras they have there. Now thats something I like doing."

Looking up from his desk Dalton gives a nod to Scott and Reese as they enter the office. He hadnt been here long before Reese had been fired but from what time Dalton had seen him he had no complaints about him now being chief. He seemed fair and thats really all that mattered.

Darlton just listend as Reese talks about making the office bigger for them. It didnt sound like a bad idea at all. It might even be nice to have the room to cram more papers, and equipment into the room.

Once Reese is gone Dalton is about to go back to work not even minding Scott was still in the room when he receves Scott's question. Turning in his chair and looking at him again quirking his eyebrow for a moment.

"This is as much your office at it is mine, so I have no right to tell you cant stay, but if it make you feel better I dont mind at all if you stay as long as you can deal with my classicle music."

Turning again back to the computer Dalton starts to type again as the soft sound of music is hurt in the background. Stoping though for a moment Dalton looks at Scott again and with a hole heart look that said he really was having trouble he states.

"You know I am kind of glad you stayed her for a little bit. I am workin on this data base for Misty to try and help organize her research better for her so she can work on more than one thing at a time and find information, and formula she needs but I am having a problem with some of the coding of what I want to get done. Do you think maybe you could take a look at it and give your imput on it?"

Sitting up in bed Angel whipes the tears from her eyes. She was lonly, cold and felt like crap. Why hadent she told Luke what was going on she didnt know and now she could feel herself getting worse and he wasnt around when she needed him the most.

Drying her tears Angel grabs her phone and dials the ranch. She wanted to talk to Luke. She had to to she missed him to much and what would happen soon she didnt know. Dialing the number she waits.

Dogs

Jason doesn't say anything as Katie approaches and just listens for a moment. A small smile curls the corner of his mouth, and he turns around, slipping his arms over her shoulders and looking down at her.

"Thanks, Katie. I needed to hear that." He leans down to kiss the top of her head, then pulls her in for a tight hug.

Sorry I cut you off earlier. It was just something I needed to know that I could do on my own.

Withdrawing, he looks down into her eyes. "But without knowing you'd be there to catch me, I still couldn't have done it."


Scott wanders slowly down the hall back towards the infirmary, his one hand running lightly along the wall.

"Scott?"

A hand on his shoulder makes him jump and whirl around, his eyes widening.

Reese stands back quickly. "Sorry. Didn't meant to startle you."

Scott is quick to calm his racing heart. "You could wave at me from across the room and it would still startle me," he replies, disgusted with himself.

Reese is about to offer some encouragement, but then decides just to let it drop. "Would you come with me a minute?"

"Um...ok." Scott hesitates, but follows Reese a little farther down the hall to Dalton's and his office.

Reese is pleased to see that Dalton is already back. "Dalton, good... now that I've got you both here..." He makes sure Scott moves into the office before going on. "I just want to be very clear that I'm happy with two tech guys around here. Goodness knows we can use all we can get. I know we're short on space though. So..."

He walks over to one of the walls and taps it with his knuckles. "On the other side of this is a storage closet. The stuff in there can be put elsewhere. So I'd like to take out this wall and open up this office to give you two more room in here."

He turns back to Scott. "And I'll have you know that from here on out, your pay go back up to what they were. No more of this foolish minimum wage."

Scott's eyebrows rise in surprise, and he looks to Dalton, then back to Reese. "Feel better?"

Reese laughs and nods. "Much. I've been biting my tongue for too long."

Something close to a smile surfaces on Scott's face. "What, um... what's your policy about... about dogs?"

"I like dogs," Reese states flatly. "Both Trooper and Domino are welcome here at any given time for any given reason as long as they behave themselves."

Scott visibly perks up. "Thank you."

"Don't thank me." Reese shakes his head. "Just stick around for a while eh?" He gives Scott's shoulder a pat. "Okay, you two, have at it. I have so much to do now, it's ridiculous."

Once Reese is gone, Scott just stands for a couple awkward moments before looking back over to Dalton. "Um... you mind if I... hang out in here for a while? I don't want to go back to the infirmary yet."

Comfort

Being one of the last to leave the room Katie glances back into the room as she slowly feel the emotional flow of Jason open up. Standing in the door way for a moment Katie just watches Jason. In a moment she felt bad for him.

Slowly entering Katie walks up behind him and wraps her arms around his neck in a tight hug bringing her lips close to his ear.

"You will always be my Chief J."

Giving him a kiss on the cheek she dosnt let him reply as she continues to talk.

"You know you had me worryed there for a moment, but you know...you proved just how much you have grown up. Its strange to think back to when I first met you and the guy I new. We couldnt stand eachother back than and to think now, we love eachother so much. You certinly have grown up Jason and I am so proud of you."

Who else

Jason's eyes roam the room, watching everyone's faces. His own was kept steady, void of emotion. Receiving Katie's question, he glances over to her, but for once, he does not respond.

When Nate's question comes, Jason moves forward a little, crossing his arms. "Austin might have done some things I disagreed with at the time. But wouldn't you agree that it is in fact easier for a leader to maintain authority, while others below him work amongst themselves in an orderly fashion?"

Shaking his head, Jason keeps someone else from speaking. "After coming up with all this, I thought hey... I really can do this. It's kinda fun being able to do whatever I want for a change."

He pauses, his facial expression suddenly turning sober as he shuts off the projector. He pauses for a very long moment, putting the whole room on edge. "And because of all those thoughts... all those ideas... all that self-righteousness..." His tone has changed to disgust against himself. "...because I was totally immature in my thinking... I realized that I am so not ready for this job. I like it too much. I like the power too much. And no matter how I try to convince myself otherwise, I know that eventually, I'll drag you all down with me and my selfish ideas. Austin was right."

Eyes blink. Bodies shift. No one says anything.

Jason swallows. He slowly cuts off his main emotions just enough to make it hard for Katie to read him. Time for communication with her would come later... for now, he didn't want it to be a distraction for either of them. "So before I can even start down that path, I've appointed a new chief. One who we all know has the guts and discipline for the job. Though you can legally vote him out, I have a feeling no one will want to."

He waves to the back of the room, gesturing someone forward. All eyes turn and light up as they see Reese. Even Wyatt hadn't realized his dad was back in town yet. Reese walks slowly yet deliberately, joining Jason in front. He reaches up to give his younger friend a pat on the shoulder before turning to look at all the faces.

A special smile is divided between some, but his wink is tossed only to Katie. "I think we'd all agree that Jason's got guts and a pretty noble heart." He gives a nod. "If anything, I'd say he just proved he is worthy of this job. But... that's not what he wants. Instead, he wants me to take over this batch of rebellious misfits."

A grin surfaces, a bit of melancholy showing in his eyes. "But never have I loved a batch of misfits so much. Being away from you all, even for the relatively short time it was, made me realize just the awesome bunch of friends you really are. And all of you are. Maybe it was good I was away for a while so I could remember just how important everyone is to me."

Clearing his throat, he pauses, trying to stay on track and get back to business before he became too sentimental. "Boy does it feel good to be back."

A whoop is let out from the back, and suddenly everyone is clapping, even Jason.

Reese laughs, color coming to his face as he waves them to stop. It takes some doing, but finally everyone is quiet again. Reese quirks an eyebrow at Jason. "I didn't hear cheering when they found out you were in charge."

Jason chuckles at the teasing and shakes his head. "Neither did I." He continues to keep up and emotional barrier, unwilling to discuss his moves just yet. For now he just wanted to listen to Reese.

Reese turns back to the staff. "You know, I've been in third or second command for a long time, and this position was never my goal. But I'm honored, and I'll do my best to think of you when making decisions."

He pauses, giving a nod. "Right off the bat, I want you to know my decision about rankings, since apparently that's one of the bigger issues around here. We can just get this subject out of the way once and for all before we go any further. I've decided not to do away with the system."

Several people exchange disappointed looks.

"Structure is good," Reese explains. "And if I'm ever gone, or unavailable, I don't want people not knowing who to go to, or who's supposed to make a judgment call. I know the rankings have frustrated some of you, but I want you to know that it has absolutely nothing to do with your self-worth. You all have different passions and talents, and if you're high-ranking, it's most likely because of your job position, not because you're any smarter or more worthy. If you're low-ranking, it's not because you're unworthy, but simply because your job position may not be directly involved with decisions on cases. And..."

He holds up a finger for emphasis. "I reserve the right to assign missions to anyone I so choose. Whether I call upon Hal or Katie or Nate or Jason or anybody to lead a case... within that team, they have the permission to trump rank. At TJY, we've always worked in teams, and never do I want to lose that. Never again do I want to lose the feeling of teamwork. I may adjust a few rankings - I may not. If you have a problem with your rank, see me and we'll talk. "

Reese pauses, taking a deep breath. "As for any other official business... let me settle in, and I'll keep everyone informed."

As the meeting closes, more clapping ensues. Everyone rises from their seats, wanting to chat with Reese while heading out the door.

And suddenly... the room is quiet. And Jason is left, hands hooked in his pockets, looking at the empty seats. Slowly, his emotional barrier is lowered again. He felt good, but there was a little twinge of disappointment that he was back to his old position. But... who else could say they'd been chief for a day?

Reason

Gathering into the meeting room everyone forms. Many were nervouse on what was to come, and some were excited that maybe this change who was in charge would bring forth the old TJY again. People like Katie help hope that Jason would do good, and do what was best for everyone keeping in mind how others felt.

As the meeting starts and Jason talks Katie cant help but feel her pulse start to move a little quicker as her hands become clammy. Just by the tone in Jason's voice and the feeling she felt it did not sit right with her.

Glancing at Wyatt Katie gives a small shrug to what Jason was talking about signaling that she herself didnt even know. It was strange, and unsettaling but true that she didnt know for once what he was talking about let alone feeling.

Continuing to listen people shift in there seats as the words Jason spoke made them uncomfortable. As the slide projector goes on and the mention of ranks and other things whispers can be hurd as many peoples tones are confused.

Taking her eyes from Jason Katie glances at Wyatt quickly, than Nate and a few other her own shock written on her face.

J...what are you doing? I though you hated the ranks when Austin gave them to us just as much as we did? I dont, understand!

Dalton in quiet, not saying much but glancing at Scott every now and than as if checking is he was doing ok. This matter really didnt bother him to much, Ranks didnt mean a thing to him. He was the tech guy and he would always be at the bottom. Thats just how it went.

Nate's eyes widen as he listens to Jason. Part of him didnt understand and was confused by this whole thing, but it was worth trying to let Jason explain his reason. Giving a small nod he asks.

"Hotshot what is your reason for the rankings. As we all said before including yourself when Austin put in ranks that it felt better when non of us had lables and we were all considered equils. Austin never gave us an answer to the other than it was easyer to controll everyone. Whats your reason for it if I may ask?!"

The faces in the room just stair at Jason all waiting for the reply or to hear more about what he had to say about other changes.

Uh-oh

For the first time since being back together again, Carson prays over breakfast. Then digging in, a grin surfaces as he gives his fork a little flourish. "These eggs are cooked to perfection, if I do say so myself."

His eyes twinkle. "This morning I had just the right combination of peppers, bacon, and one little spitfire. Makes for the perfect breakfast." A wink is tossed in Misty's direction. "I could have done with just the spitfire, but I suppose a man has to eat every once in a while."


Axel chuckles and shakes his head, proving it didn't bother him a bit that Jess was a little late. "Those alarms, I tell ya. They just don't turn themselves on when we want them to. What good are they if they can't read our minds?"

After ordering, he leans back in his seat, contemplating his answer to her question. "It was about the same as any other morning, though a brisk walk was an added bonus." He rubs his hand absentmindedly. "Gonna be a long day in the shop, so I'm just as glad to relax for a while before getting back to it."


Mmm... morning, Katie. Yeah, I'm as ready as I'll ever be.

Jason hangs up the phone, having blocked the conversation that had taken place.

I got in early to avoid too many questions yet... I don't know if I'm looking forward to people's reaction of me being chief or not, but I guess today will be the worse of it. Can only go up from here, right?

"Jason, I got those files for you..." Susanne pokes her head into the office.

"Oh, thanks." Jason takes the papers and nods. "Good deal."

"Meeting still at ten?"

"Yep."

"Want me to make coffee or anything?"

Jason thinks, then shrugs. "If you think enough people would like it. I leave that up to you."

Susanne chuckles. "Alright. See you in a few minutes."

Alone again, Jason sighs and rubs his forehead.

Guess I'll see you in a few minutes too. Wish me luck.


A quarter to ten, the Elite staff starts to filter down to the lower level. Everyone seems a little on edge. No one had said much about Jason's email... they were all shocked and unsure what to think. Most simply hoped that this morning's meeting would head off any questions they had as to what the future held. Some faces held the look of hope that things would start to improve. Some held the look of wariness, and perhaps distrust that Jason was the right man for the job. But few words were said.

As the room fills, seats are taken up in rows, facing the front of the room. One by one, everyone there shows up. One of the last to enter, Scott comes in quietly, almost unnoticed, as was his intent. He hadn't wanted to come, but Rick had prompted him. He didn't notice the smile Susanne sent him when she noticed the new clothes he was wearing.

Trudging to the side, Scott spots an empty seat in the back next to Dalton. Next to the hulk was the perfect hiding spot. Sliding in next to the other tech guy, Scott keeps his eyes down, and his hands in his pockets. He hoped the meeting wouldn't take long.

At ten on the nose, Jason enters. He can feel all eyes on him, and holds his breath until he reaches the front. Never had he felt more awkward in front of this group of people. His nervousness doesn't show though - he'd learned well how to appear confident, and he played the role well.

"Thank you all for coming." Jason scans the staff, a slight smile on his face. "Didn't think I'd ever get the chance to use that line myself."

Several people chuckle.

Jason paces, collecting his thoughts, though his body language displayed control.

I sure hope I know what I'm doing, Hero.

"You know, when Austin made me chief, at first I thought there was no way I could do this. But after letting the idea sit for a while, I realized all the training I've had... all the experience I've had. And I came to the conclusion that maybe Austin wasn't off his rocker after all. I thought, you know what... I can do this. I do have the capabilities. I do have the knowledge and the strength." He pauses, his eyes landing briefly on Katie.

I have you to thank for my strength, Katie. Despite everything, you've held me up.

"The more I thought about it, the more ideas came to mind that I've always had - the way things should be done at TJY... how things should run. Goodness knows I tried to get both Austin and Reese to see my way a million times."

A few smiles come, but some are leery. What was Jason planning? He seemed too confident for this kind of responsibility. Where would they end up?

Jason continues. "I've always hated tight deadlines. I've always balked at partnering with other branches of law who don't know squat about what we do. I've never liked the fact that we're watched so carefully now by local law and the FBI. It..."

Rick lifts his hand, the first to express concern for the haughty comments. "Jase, what..."

Jason cuts him off by raising his palm and continuing to talk. Several people exchange uneasy glances. "...It's always been a drag taking orders and doing what everyone else wants all the time." He pauses, setting his hands on his hips in an authoritative stance. "How could I not take this chance? I can finally get my way, and who's gonna want to call a judge to get rid of me?" He smirks. "I think my position is pretty stable." If the statement was supposed to hold humor, it did not come off well.

Wyatt's eyes have narrowed, and he throws Kate a "what does he think he's doing" look. Scott swallows hard. Did he still have a job? Rick holds his tongue.

"So last night," Jason keeps going, "all these thoughts were running through my mind. And I came up with several different plans to renovate the system. And this morning I want to share the first piece in this system, which a whole new ranking order, because everything else hinges off of that."

Picking up a remote, he turns on the projector. A screen appears on the wall behind him, showing a chart. Names and rankings had all been changed and shifted. Some were higher, some were lower. To several people watching, it looked like utter chaos. Of course, Jason was noted at the top as reigning authority.

He stands to the side to survey his handiwork. "As said, this is just the first piece, which doesn't show the new scheduled work hours, employment benefits, etcetera."

Not set

"Oh I'll always remember them, that much is certin..."

Mistys lips curl up in a sidelong grin. Oh how good it felt to banter like this with Carson again. The old memories were good and now the new ones were going to be even better.

Returning Carson's kiss Misty basks in the emotions again that send a serge through her. As he burst out in laughter she cant help but laugh herself. How much joy she felt in knowing, that Carson found himself again yet had still made changes.

Taking the plate with the omelet on it Misty just smiles at Carson the twinkle in her eye as life was given back to them. Giving a small chuckle she replys.

"Something tells me Herb wouldnt be to thrilled to hear that your girlfriend pulls a knif on you."

Setting her plate down Misty grabs her phone and than turns to Carson.

"I'll be right back I am gonna call and let work know I am going to be late. I really feel like spending more time with you than I do going back to that place."

Leaving the room Misty dialy the number right for the infermary. She would rather let Rick know she was going to be late than to have to talk to Austin himself. She was never late before but with the way he had been acting she didnt know if he would have a cow or not and this morning she didnt want to deal with it.

Getting the answering service Misty just leave a quick message saying she will be in later and if Austin asked to let him know she would deal with him later as well. Turning again Misty heads back into the kitchen and sits down at the table smile at Carson again.

"Ok, I am ready to eat now, and I have a few more hours with you that I think will be well spend."

Entering the restront Jess scans the table. She had been running late again this morning and hoped that Axel had waited for her and not given up. Finally looking twords one of the table by a window a smile spreads across her face seeing Axel.

Making her way over Jess removes her jacket and slids into the booth. Her hair still damp showing how much of a rush she had been in. Folding her hand in her lap for a moment she gives a shiver. It was bitter cold out today and her wet hair hadnt helped much.

"Morning. Sorry I am late my alarm didnt go off right this morning and I am not sure why. I thought for sure I had set it, but alass it was not turned on."

Giving the waitress her drink order Jess scans the menu quickly. Finally decieding what she wanted Jess waits for the waitress to come back to place her older. Turning to Axel once again she gives a smile. It really was nice to be able to spend time with people once and a while.

"So, how has your morning been so far?"

Sitting at her desk Katie rubs a hand over her face. The bags under her eyes prove it had been a long night for her. Jason for the most part was at peace about many things that made him uptight before but yet, there was something that Katie wasnt sure about. She had hit a brick wall last night. Jason had blocked certine emotions from her and she guessed they were about the meeting, but it had made for a long night.

Glancing down at the clock she takes note that it is 9:30. In about 15 min she would head down to the meeting room. But before than she wanted to finish her letter home. Though getting side tracked once again relizing Jason never greeted her this morning. That was strange he always did. Typing at the same time Katie sends a message.

Good Morning J. You all ready for the meeting?