Needs

Laura eases down in her desk chair, letting out a long sigh. She turns on her computer and waits for it to boot up, swiveling in her chair a little. She knew Reese would probably give her a bad time about being back to work already, but she wanted this... she needed this.

Turning, she sees the little picture of Nate that she'd had on her desk for a long time now. Picking it up, she runs a finger over the photo. Emotions welled up inside of her. She opens her drawer and is about to put the picture away, but she stops.

Her eyes glance across the room to Nate's cubicle. She hadn't even said hi to him this morning. It hurt. She looks back at the picture and closes the drawer. The frame was still in her hand. Putting it back where it had been, Laura lets Nate keep smiling from the still shot. She needed that too.


Ryder grins at Katie and goes to put his shoes on. "Anything to keep me busy... you do not want me getting bored."

It doesn't take but a few more minutes until Ryder is following Katie out the door. Stopping at the flower shop, Ryder is quick to get in and out, sliding back into the passenger seat, this time with his hands full.

Before they pull away though, he separates what he's holding to reveal that it was actually two small bouquets. Handing one to Katie, it's full of a variety of yellow flowers. "I can't leave you out." He grins. "And if Jason throws a fit, blame it on the sheila in the shop 'cause she said yellow was best for a friend. So... thank you... for being a friend when I most needed it."

Buckling himself in, Ryder makes sure the other bouquet of mixed colors doesn't go sliding off his lap. On their way again, he keeps his eyes out the windows, taking in his surroundings and trying to memorize it. He still wasn't sure where all the turns were and which directions to go, to get to TJY.

Once there, he follows Katie inside, separating from her once their on the main floor. Looking around, he finally spots Laura's space. Wandering up to her cubicle, he leans over the top. "Well now... nice office."

Laura looks up quickly, and grins. "Ryder. You look like you've been up to mischief."

"As always." Ryder smiles and moves to the doorway, holding out the flowers.

Laura's eyes widen. "For me?"

"Well who else is in here?" Ryder shakes his head. "Of course they are."

Taking the flowers, Laura blushes, but hides it by putting her face down into the flowers to smell their sweetness. ""They're lovely. But why?"

"Does a bloke need an excuse to give a girl flowers?"

"Usually."

"Not this one." Ryder throws her a wink. "Let's just say, I think you deserve them."

"After making a fool out of myself last night?"

"I didn't see a fool."

Laura blushes again under his gaze. "Well... thank you. The flowers are beautiful."

"Just like looking in a mirror, ay?"

Laura looks up quickly, then her eyes narrow good-naturedly. "Now you're being an outright flirt."

"Can't help it. You just bring it out of me."

Laura giggles. "Stop now before I call security."

"Security?" Ryder lifts an eyebrow. "I have a feeling you wouldn't need any. I think I'd rather go with the security for my own protection, rather than face your wrath."

Laura can't help another laugh. "Good. You just keep being afraid then. Now get going before I really get mad."

Ryder grins and straightens to leave. "Your wish is my command."

Laura watches him walk away and just shakes her head, rolling her eyes. But the smile still curls the corner of her mouth. Getting up, she heads for the break room for a glass and some water for the flowers. They would add a cheerful touch to her cubicle today. She needed that too.

Ryder hooks his hands in his pockets and wanders the main floor, greeting a few people and trying to get his bearings. If he couldn't find anything to do, he'd go see what Katie had.

Ambling down the other end, he passes someone he recognizes. While some might turn around and walk the other direction, he didn't. Instead, he stops and gives Nate a nod. "G'day."


"Well... what do you think?" Rick stares down at the little vile that he and Misty had just finished on. He looks to Misty with question. Were they ready to try the antidote? Was it time? And was Angel strong enough to handle anything at all? They had to do something... she didn't have much time left.


"Alice! Woo!" Kyle throws his arms in the air. "The shadow has arrived!"

Some of the others pop their heads around corners out out windows. "Hey hey hey! Welcome!"

Kyle makes a quick job of introductions before getting picked on for taking too long. "Alright alright alright." He rolls his eyes. "We can go now!"

"All aboard!" Jordan shouts and climbs in to sit behind the wheel.

Kyle grins and gives Alice a wave. "I got my phone, so if you need to stop or anything, let us know so we don't lose ya."

"Kyle! Come on!"

"Coming!" Kyle's grin widens as he walks backward, still talking to Alice. "We'll be stopping for lunch and then..."

"Kyle!"

Spinning around, Kyle sprints the rest of the way to the door, jumping into the bus. Almost immediately, the bus begins to move. As they're pulling out onto the road though, the view into the back window is suddenly overshadowed by a figure moving around, and suddenly a big sign appears and is taped to it. It read, "If you're not Alice, get off our tail." Then Kyle's face appears, plastered on the window to peer down at Alice in her jeep. Hitting a bump though, Kyle suddenly disappears from view.


Con wanders into the house and heads straight to his chair in the living room. Easing down, he just leans back, quietly thinking. Jamie was at work... he was supposed to be out looking for a job, but the deal at the hardware store had fallen through. Instead, he'd gone for his scheduled doctor's appointment, that he hadn't told Jamie about.

Sighing, he finally takes off his jacket, and throws his keys on the end table. What would the future bring now? Never had he pictured himself in this position. Never had he thought that he would have to face this kind of thing. It went against everything he knew... everything he wanted to do. Why him?

After sitting for a while, Con moves from the chair to the couch, lying on his stomach with a throw pillow tucked under his head. He didn't used to take naps. But today he was too tired not to.


"You mean this is her? You finally brought her? You actually did it?" A smile spreads across Landon's lips and he offers a hand to Charlotte. "This man of yours has been bragging about you the last ten times he's been out here, and every time there's been a new excuse as to why you weren't here." A mischievous glint enters his eyes. "For a while there, I thought maybe you were a figment of his imagination."

"Oh, stop." Bret gives Landon's arm a whack. "Each time it was legit and you know it."

"Yeah, yeah. Always gotta win, don't you?"

"Always."

Landon shakes his head and sets his hands on his hips. "Well, Mrs. Bret Sterling Parker, you have entered our domain." He spreads out his arms, surveying the main track, the stands, and the adjoining dirt arena.

As he does, his eye catches movement on the far side of the track. "Uh-oh. Wildcat is back."

Bret cringes a little. He'd told Charlotte that Maria was around, and had hoped that this morning at least, the track would be free from her snotty remarks. He may have told Charlotte that his ex hung around the track, but he hadn't exactly told her about all the unwanted interaction. "Yeah, well..." He directs a stern look to Landon. "Let's just keep her claws aimed in another direction, shall we?"

Landon grins again. "As if we have control over that."

Fantasy

Laughing behond control Katie holds her sides as the start to hurt slightly. All she can do is gasp for air and continue to laugh as the whole thing continues to go on.

Finally though as Laura makes her leave Katie throws a wave of goodbye to her. Placing her coffee cup in the sing Katie gives a nod to Ryder.

"Yeah Fantasy Flower is a block away we can swing but there if you like first. Also if you want I have some stuff I could use some help with at work if your up for it. Its not maid work though so it will be a bit harder."

Smiling at Axel as he leave Jess cant help the large smile that spreads across her face. Truring back Liz Jess sits down at the table. Everything that was going on Jess felt better, and she felt so happy.

"Oh there might be, but no matter where Axel is, I think certin people would still be up to the challange of catching the rainbow."

Jess liked Liz she was cute and very insightful young girl. Once she went back to Nevada she new she would miss her but they could always come back and visit sometime.

Pulling into the parking lot and seeing Kyle Alice lays on her horn till she comes to a stop in front of Kyle. Opening the door and jumping out Alice cant help the excitment that was eched on her face.

"Hey whats the hold up we have some road to hit."

Coming over to Kyle Alice shakes her head a little. This was exciting and she new it was gonna be fun, and it sure would be an adventire.

"I think I have everything I need and if not I am sure I can pick stuff up along the way."

Making his way into TJY Nate moves slowly. His eyes looked tired and he was. He'd almost been tempted to call off of work today but he needed the money and couldnt offord to call off.

Getting to his cubicle Nate quickly looks down the way to Laura's desk. Seeing it empty he lets out a sigh. He missed if anything alse at least seeing her at work.

Sinking down in his chair Nate lays his head in his hand for a moment. He hoped today would go by fast or there would be alot of work to keep his mind off things. With any luck that would happen.

Better things

"House maid?" Ryder's eyebrows rise. Spinning around, he grabs a wooden spoon from the counter, holding it like a feather duster. Giving a little curtsy, he bats his eyes, faking a British accent, while speaking in a higher pitch. "Morning, Mum. After I'm done attacking the laundry, wrestling with the dishes and killing dust bunnies, would you like a spot of tea?"

Laura starts to giggle. "All you need is a little black dress and a white apron."

Looking to the counter, Ryder's eyes pop open wide and he shrieks like a girl. "Eek! I'll 'ave you know I won't put up with coffee stains on the counter of a kitchen I'm supposed to be cleaning. "My 'ouse is your 'ouse," she said, but fancy leaving all the crocodiles to me. I'll clean 'enry's catbox, but coffee stains are left to the Missus of this 'ouse."

By now, Laura's face is red as she laughs, her shoulders shaking. "Oh you are way too good at this."

Ryder grins and tosses the spoon over his shoulder, having it land directly into the sink. The look on his face is a sheepish one and he tries not to laugh. "I think I've been cooped up too long. Either of you going into work today or what?"

Laura nods, downing the rest of her coffee. She needed a good day at work to keep her mind busy. "You?"

"Oh I dunno. Yesterday turned into a disaster."

"Yeah, well I'm afraid to leave you here now. Might come back to find you wearing a maid's dress made from a crocodile."

"You don't have to worry about that," Ryder counters. "It would take me at least three days to accomplish that."

Laura grins and shakes her head, looking back over to Katie. "Remind TJY to do a background check the next time we want to bring someone back to the States." She grabs her purse and heads for the door. "Well, Ryder, if you need something, call, and Katie, I'll see you later."

Once the door is closed again, Ryder tosses Katie a wink. "How about I catch a ride with you? I got a stop to make though if you don't mind. Reese gave me some cash yesterday and it's burning a hole in my pocket. Is there a flower shop between here and TJY?"


Axel looks up at Jess with dry humor. "Oh, shut up," he grumbles, though his eyes twinkle. He accepts her hand up, then stretches out tall. "I feel like I've been sleeping on a stiff board."

Liz rolls her eyes. "I wonder why."

Axel gives the back of her head a light whack. "Try to behave yourself while I'm in the shower and unable to bail you out, will you?"

Watching him leave, Liz giggles, calling after him. "By the time you're out, I'll be at school. You still be here when I get back?"

"Yeah, yeah," Axel yells over his shoulder as he ambles down the hall. "I won't leave without saying goodbye."

Hearing the bathroom door close, Liz grins and looks to Jess. "I miss having him around here. I almost forgot how much fun it was." She turns around to busy herself getting a quick breakfast, but she stops once more, still smiling at Jess. "But I suppose there are better things to keep him in Nevada, huh?"


"Kyle, we got half an hour!"

"She'll be here!" Kyle leans against the back of the bus, squinting in the morning light. He knew Alice was about as excited as this trip as he was. There was no way she'd be late.

He puts his hands in his pockets, just thinking for a moment. He'd said goodbye to everyone who he thought cared about it. Even Jason had stopped by to see him off. This was it... it would be several months before he was back. He hoped he'd tied up all the loose ends... He'd still be sending money for bills back to Phil, and Phil would look out for his truck for him. Otherwise though... nothing was keeping him here. He was on a new adventure... maybe he would find a new route in life.

Didnt know

A smile makes its way across Katie's face as she sips her coffee watching Ryder try and help Laura. It was nice to see Ryder trying to fit in and find is place. In the process making another friend. Kaite liked knowing that maybe through helping Laura, and herself Ryder felt like he belonged giving him all the more reason to stick around.

Giving a laugh at Laura's comment Katie stands and goes over to the coffee pot to grab some more coffee giving her head a little shake.

"I can see the headlines now...."

Katie waves her free and in front of her like she was reading a paper heading.

"Croc hunter become house maid."

Looking to Ryder Kaite busts out laughing the mantel images alone making her laughter grow beyond control.

Wwaking and hearing noise in the other room Jess gentil opens the door. Her back acked a little but that was from sleeping in a bed that was not hers.

Slowling making her way through the house she fnids her way to the kitchen. Stoping a giving a blink at Axel on the floor a laugh escapes her lips.

"When you said I could have the extra bed room I didnt know you ment you were going to sleep on the kichen floor!"

Giving a smile Jess trys to find a little humor in the whole situation before going over to Axel and offering a hang.

"Good Morning!"

Shoulder

Laura soaks up Katie's comfort, glad for her friend, glad for the words. It didn't take the pain away, but maybe it numbed it just a little.

Hearing the offer for the bath, she nods. It did sound good. Wiping her eyes with the back of her hand, she sniffs again, then stands up a little shakily. Ryder stands out of the way, letting her wander to her bedroom first, then back to the bathroom.

The bathroom was getting just a bit steamy. Bath oils had been found, and the scent of lilac wafted in the air. It was warm... warm and oh so inviting... Laura slides down into the hot water, her body immediately relaxing. Closing her eyes she just sits for a while, not asleep, but not letting her mind think at the moment. Her aching muscles started to loosen up, and as her body relaxed, so did her emotions.

Ryder quietly wanders the living room, grabbing the blanket he'd been using and preparing the couch for his bed for the night. Hearing the microwave beep, he ambles back to the kitchen.

Laura dries herself off and wraps herself up in her soft robe. She towel dries her hair and gets ready for bed. Though much more relaxed now, she doesn't trust that she'll be able to get to sleep on her own, so she grabs a bottle from the medicine cabinet. Aiming for the kitchen, she enters and goes for a glass of water to accompany the pills.

As she's reaching for a glass though, the bottle is suddenly slipped from her grasp. Giving a little start, she turns quickly to Ryder and blinks in surprise. Then she sees the steaming mug in his hand.

He offers her the hot tea. "Drink this instead," he directs gently. "It'll put you right to sleep." Receiving an unbelieving look, he nods. "Trust me."

Too worn out to fight, Laura accepts. "Thank you," she manages a little hoarsely.

"Go on," he shrugs off the thanks. "Things will look different in the morning."

Laura just looks at him for a moment, still not quite sure where he'd come from or who he was, but grateful nonetheless. He was being so kind. Finally she turns to slowly make it to her room. Crawling onto her bed, she settles back against her pillows and takes a sip of the tea. It slid down her throat, so warm and soothing, and oh it tasted good. In the morning, she wouldn't even remember finishing it off before sliding under the covers and falling asleep almost before her head hit the pillow.


Axel just lets the exchange continue, in no hurry to let it end - not something this sweet, this blissful. Finally though, he withdraws just a bit, knowing that they both needed to go inside. A smile spreads - a full one... a genuine one. No words were needed... they both knew that tonight had suddenly marked the beginning of something new for the both of them... and both were willing to be a part of the adventure.

Pulling her in close again, Axel just gives Jess a tight hug, in thanks for everything. Then pulling away, he moves to open the door. "We better get inside before someone decides to turn the porch light on," he teases quietly.

The morning breaks all too soon. The sun is met with weary eyes that wish for just another hour of sleep. But dawn waits for no one...

Liz's shriek echoes through the house before she slaps a hand over her mouth. Too late, she knew she's alerted probably everyone else in the house.

Axel gives a start and sits bolt upright, hitting his head on something hard. His hand hurt like the dickens, and now so did his head too. Squinting, he tries to bring things into focus, for a moment, feeling an odd sense of panic.

"Oh, oh, it's just me," Liz tries to make up for the rude awakening. "You alright?"

Axel blinks and finally realizes that he's sitting up on the kitchen floor, staring up at Liz. "Um..." He furrows his brow. "I think... I don't know... yes?"

Liz tries not to laugh. "Do you have any idea how long you've been out here?"

Axel shakes his head. "Uh-uh..." He blinks again and tries to stand up, but has just a bit of trouble when his right hand offers no help.

Liz helps instead. "Sorry for screaming. It's been a while since I've just come across you in weird places ya know. Good to know somethings never change though."

Axel smirks at her, finally starting to wake up. "Yeah, it's great," he retorts with sarcasm, wincing as he stretches. Last he knew, he'd given Jess the spare room and had sacked out in the living room for the night. "You try starting out on the couch, and winding up on some hard tile floor, then you tell me how good it is."

A giggle finally escapes. "I'm sorry. Rough night, huh?"

"I have no idea."

"Well at least you didn't end up outside like you did that one time."

"This is true."

Liz looks up at him, a little sly glint in her eye. "Figured you woulda slept like a baby last night though."

"And why's that?"

Liz shrugs, tossing him a crooked grin. "Oh... no reason..." She goes to start the coffee as she'd intended to do, turning her back on him.

He's glad she does as he can suddenly feel heat in his face. Surely she hadn't... he's not even going to ask. "Bathroom empty?"

"Last I checked. Hurry though, Nick was just getting up."


Laura runs a brush through her hair and gives herself one last look in the mirror. That would have to do. She takes a deep breath, then heads out of her bedroom. She felt surprisingly refreshed this morning. Her mind was a little clearer, and she felt like being distracted for at least a while. Some might advise against going to work, but she wanted something to keep her busy.

Arriving to the kitchen, she finds that Katie and Ryder are already up, and she goes for some cold cereal for breakfast. "Morning," she greets. Reaching for a bowl in the cupboard, she pauses to roll her right shoulder, feeling the knot that had formed from sleeping in the same position all night. "What did you put in that tea?" she questions wryly. "That knocked me out cold."

Ryder grins and steps away from the window where he'd been looking out. "Secret recipe. Glad it worked. How you feeling?"

"Better." Laura gives a little nod. "Better..." It was true. She still didn't know what decisions she wanted to make or where she was going, or how to really make it through this, but the immediate breakdown was over, and at least for now, she just wanted to move forward. She would face the emotions again if they spilled over, but for now at least, she felt on an even keel.

"...other than my shoulder killing me," she concludes, pouring milk over her cereal at the counter.

"Mm, which one?"

"Right one. Guess I must have slept on it funny or something." Concentrating on her breakfast, suddenly feeling Ryder's hand on her shoulder makes her jump.

"Oy, steady," he directs with gentle firmness. He runs a thumb down her back around her shoulder blade. "Here?"

Laura scrunches up her nose. "Yeah."

Holding her still with one hand, Ryder moves his other, letting his palm move in a slow but deep movement to release the knot. "How's that?"

Laura rotates her arm, her eyebrows rising. "Much better... wow... thank you." She looks to Katie with a teasing grin. "How come you didn't bring this guy sooner? Can we hire him?"


"Jordan, where's my pack?"

"I threw it in this morning, babe. Got the phones?"

"Hey, did we get the fridge fixed?"

"Incoming!"

"Whoa, Hunter, cut it out!"

"Who's dirty sock is this?!"

"Kyle! You showed up!"

Kyle grins as he ambles toward the buss, duffel bag in hand. "Yo, Chloe, wassup?"

Chloe giggles. "Nothing, other than trying to keep up with this crazy bunch."

"Well then I think I came to the right place."

"Of course you did!" Hunter hollers to him out one of the windows. "Get your hind end in here and claim your bunk before all of Myla's crap ends up on it!"

"Hey!" Myla shrieks from inside. "I packed as light as I could! Mark my words, if I didn't have all this stuff, within an hour of being on the road, Jordan would be complaining that I'd forgotten something."

Hunter is leaning out the window, and he just grins at Kyle, ignoring Myla. "Married couples. I tell ya." He sighs and shakes his head teasingly. "We'll be ready in about an hour. Where's your shadow?"

Kyle turns and looks out from the gravel parking lot to the road, then back to Hunter. "She'll be here. Just look for a jeep."

"And your own gang?"

"I said goodbye earlier this morning..." Kyle pauses for just a minute, remembering the warm farewell, though he could tell that his sister especially didn't want him to go. "I'm all set."

Slice

Trying to console her friend Katie continues to rub Laura's back. She didnt know how she felt, and she couldnt even start to imagen the pain she was feeling. But Katie tryed her best anyways because she had felt pan before even if it was a differnt kind.

"Oh Laura, I know it hurts Hun, but I know that hurt will go away in time if you let it."

Drawing silent again Katie collects her thoughts as she trys to simpathys with Laura. The look in her eyes killed Katie on the inside to see her friend hurting so much.

"As for Nate, I dont think he hates you. Nate dosnt have a hate bone in his body and he loves you so much. He's probley hurting just as much as you are if not a little more in a differnt way. Seeing someone you love hurting and not being able to do anything to take that hurt away. He'll be ok and when its over He will love you just the same if not more."

Tighting her arm around Laura just a little as she runs a hand through Henry's fer. Than hearing Ryder's comment about relaxing with a nice bath Katie gives a nod and smile at Laura.

"I think that would be nice for you and would help. Hows that sound to you?"

The experance was new, the feeling was fresh and Jess could tell the differance. Feeling Axel draw close Jess' sences highter as she can feel herself give a little shiver. Feeling Axel's lips touch her Jess can feel the wave of heat that runs throgh her system.

Looking into Axel's eyes as he pulls away slightly Jess smiles back at him. A million emotions of happyness refelcted in her eyes. Though what she felt she could not call it love it was deffintly an emotion that gave her the hope and will to make this go farward because it just might work out.

"I dont think falling to your death would be worth it, because than I could never look at you again, or match my intelligence with yours."

As Axel returns to continue the kiss Jess wraps her arms around him once more. Feeling him close to her she felt safe, the emotions washing over her. The sweet tast of the moment was like nothing Jess had tasted before. This was perfect, if Jess had to put a name to it, this was what a slice of heaven was like.

O.O

Ryder looks up as Katie approaches, glad that she'd showed up on her own. He didn't mind being there for Laura, even if he didn't really know her. But even so, he thought it even better if Katie was there too.

Letting Katie take over, he stands up and goes to clean up the rest of the broken glass, and sop up the remaining tea. It takes him a little while, but he winds up getting some soap and working on the spot to make sure it doesn't even stain the carpet.

Hearing Katie and feeling her arm around her, Laura just leans onto her younger friend's shoulder. "Oh, Katie," she whimpers. "I feel so messed up. I just... I don't know what to do, and I just keep making things worse..." Her sobs quiet some, but the tears still flow. She hadn't yet come to terms with what Bryce had done to her, making this whole thing even worse. She wanted to just charge through her emotions and conquer it all like she always did... but this time she couldn't.

"I have to testify in court... and I just feel like I should have been stronger... and now Nate and I... I don't even know if there is a Nate and I anymore." She sniffs, trying to take deep breaths to calm herself. "He must hate me... I know I would... everything I've put him through."

Henry comes to Ryder, sniffing the wet spot on the floor, then looking back over to his mistress. Holding his tail high, he trots to the couch and jumps up on Katie's lap so he can be close to both women, and starts to purr as if offering his own comfort.

Ryder cocks his head, watching the scene for a moment. Something stirred in his heart. It was more than compassion. It was a longing. He'd had friends. But none close. He'd had a family. But it had been too quickly taken away. The people here... at TJY, and their friends... they were all so different. It was like one big family.

Sighing, he gets up and heads down the hall, disappearing. About ten minutes later, he comes back, and squats down next to the couch by Katie. "Hey," he mentions quietly. "Best thing for her is to relax and get some sleep. I've got the hot water running in the tub - it'd do her good."


Axel is quiet, and though feeling as though he might do something wrong, he doesn't want to foul up another opportunity. He liked Jess... maybe more than he'd admit to anyone else. He'd been intrigued with her from the very beginning. But that intrigue had turned to something more. He cared about her... and while he was satisfied with their simple friendship... if he didn't take a step for more... a step towards something that he had always thought would be out of his reach... a step towards something that his heart really did want... he might lose her to someone else. And while they could still be friends, he didn't like that thought. If he didn't keep her around and keep her close, he'd be losing something he'd learned to view as precious.

Slowly, he moves to wrap one arm around her waist, the other hand still on her face. "Good," he whispers.

Leaning in, he tilts his head just a little, before letting his lips meet her own, every so lightly. For him, the feeling is like an electrical shock, running through his entire system. Pulling back just a little, Axel looks in Jess' eyes, wondering if it was just him, or if he really was being silly. But having her this close, in his arms.... it was a feeling he wouldn't have traded for anything.

A small smile creeps into the corner of his mouth. "This time I can't fall to my death," he whispers. "But even if that was the consequence... I think it would be worth it."

Returning to her lips, he kisses her once more, but this time with more confidence, letting it linger... letting it's warmth stay with him. The taste was sweet, the feeling irreplaceable.

Sticking

Sitting up straght in her bed Katie's ears catch sound to the breaking glass. It could of just been Ryder but it could be something alse as well. If something was wrong Katie would never forgive herself for not getting up to check.

Throwing on one of her hoodies Katie slowly opens the door from her room her gun at her said as she squints out into the light. Slowly emerging Katie makes her way to where she hurd the nosie coming from her ears picking up on a soft crying.

Looking into the living room and seeing Ryder and Laura Katie's is put at ease a little knowing it was not a burgler. Though she was happy to see her friend, why was Laura here now she though Con had said she would be staying away for a little while now.

Coming in farther Katie sinks down on the couch next to Laura and gentily puts her arm around her friend. She didnt need to say anything, she new Laura was having a hard time. She just wanted to be there for her friend so she new she was not alone.

Continuing to look for Axel's wallet Jess cant help the laugh that escapes her lips at the thought of the crickets.

"You know thats a very funny mentil image right?"

As Axel finds his wallet Jess stands and shakes her head. How silly she felt but how good at the same time.

Heading back the way they came Jess stands a little close to Axel. Feeling his hand slowly slip into her, her finger tighten slightly as she looks to him giving a smile. It was warm and the feeling felt, so differnt but she liked it, and it didnt cause any fear.

Finally getting back to the house Jess turns to Axel hearing his words. Feeling the heat come to her face Jess closes her eyes for a moment feeling Axel's hand on her face.

"Your a pretty special rainbow Axel. I have a feeling I will be sticking around."

Looking deep into Axel's eyes Jess heart starts to race as she can feel her own hands start to get a bit clammy, she wasnt scaired only nervouse. Giving a small nod she steps just a little bit closer to Axel.

"Yes, I...I'd like that."

Bringing her hand up she places it on Axel's shoulder as the other finds its way around him, her emotions running, her feelings, this feel was differnt, and it was good. With antisapation jess waited for Axel to lean closer when he was ready.

Morning is coming...

Dan and Paula exchange glances as Nate leaves the house. Paula's eyes go slightly wide. "What was that all about?"

"I... don't know. Con said things weren't great between those two though."


Laura watches helplessly as Nate leaves. It felt like this was all her fault. When would she learn to just stay away from people so she wouldn't hurt them? When would she learn to just not get involved so she didn't have to say no, and didn't have to look into eyes like Nate's that just broke her heart?

Letting out a cry of frustration, she flops down onto the back porch steps to lean back against the railing. She turns off the tears, not wanting to continue feeling so out of control. She had never felt lower in her life.

"Laura?"

She doesn't move, but lets her aunt come and sit next to her. "He left?"

"Yes." Paula reaches over to rub Laura's back lovingly. "You okay?"

Laura forces out a sorry laugh. "I'm always okay."

"You don't look it." Paula sighs. "You know it's okay to cry."

"I know." Laura looks down. "But I don't want to. I just want to go home."

"Are you sure?"

"Yeah..." Laura nods. "Bryce is gone so... there's nothing for me to worry about, and Katie is there, so I know I'm safe. I don't mean to be ungrateful to you and Uncle Dan."

"Oh, we don't think you are." Paula gives Laura's shoulders a squeeze. "I know, you'd just rather be in your own house and closer to your brother too."

Laura nods again. "I know it's getting late, but..."

"I'll help you." Paula smiles. "Come on."

...It's past midnight, and the driveway is dark. Laura shuts off her car and glances around the yard. The several hour drive had only proven to make her spirits worse. All she wanted was to crawl into bed. The darkness scared her... but she was too angry at that fear to let it get the best of her.

She exits her car with confidence, knowing that her gun was loaded. Grabbing her bag from the back seat, she heads up the porch and finds her key to let herself in. Katie wasn't expecting her, so hopefully she wouldn't wake up from the noise.

Laura lets her bag drop behind the couch, then goes to the kitchen to get something to drink. Odd. The light was on. Maybe Katie was still up after all.

But reaching the kitchen, her eyes widen in shock, seeing a man at the sink with a glass of water. If someone had told her that a man was here, it had been lost in the chaos. But she was in no mood to take chances.

Ryder almost chokes on his water as he turns around to face a blonde woman with a gun drawn. "Whoa, easy, easy." He sets his glass down and puts his hands in the air. "I belong here."

"Who are you?" Laura hisses.

"Ryder. I came back with the group from Australia. Katie let me sack out here for a while." Ryder's heart pounded in his chest, afraid for his own life at this point, though he remained calm. "You must be Laura... right?"

Laura's eyes narrow. She vaguely remembered someone telling her that someone was staying here, but was this guy really telling the truth?

Ryder offers a small smile. "Would a thief stop to get a drink in the kitchen?"

Laura starts to lower her gun. "I suppose not."

"Naw... I'm sorry I scared you. But really... call Katie if you need to. She just went to bed a bit ago."

Right then, Henry decides to enter in on the fun, and starts to weave in and out of Ryder's legs, purring loudly at his new friend.

Laura sees her cat's behavior and now knows for sure that this guy is alright. Otherwise Henry wouldn't bt acting so friendly. "Okay," she relents, withdrawing her gun. "I apologize." She was jumpy. She wasn't going to take risks with any strange guy. But her gut had yet to be wrong, and this guy was telling the truth, no matter how strange it seemed.

"No need." Ryder studies Laura's face. It never ceased to disgust him, how someone could hurt a woman like that, and it pained him to see anyone in this position. "We didn't know when you'd be back."

"Yeah... well, neither did I." Laura sighs and goes to the refrigerator, looking for some iced tea. She had a headache, and now knowing Ryder was on the up and up, she really didn't care if he was there or not. It still seemed a bit odd to her, but she was too tired to think about it. People showed up here all the time. Whatever. If Henry thought this guy was okay, then she'd just trust that, and the name did ring a bell. Not to mention, Katie would never let an intruder get this far.

One would think that Laura would be a whole lot more hesitant around a male stranger right now, but for some reason, her mind seemed to have bypassed the fear mechanism, too tired of being afraid. She was in no-nonsense mode, with forced confidence to get her through. her mind was foggy enough the way it was - she didn't want to clutter it with more information.

Laura gets her tea and leans back against the counter, sipping it slowly. Finally she moves to the living room, wandering past the wall of photos. Looking over them, her eyes land on several recent additions that had Nate's smiling face. Tears suddenly spring into her eyes, even though she fought hard to control them. But the lump rising in her throat seemed more determined than she, now that she was in the safe confines of home.

Ryder watches from a distance, then approaches slowly. He'd been getting ready to go to bed, but he hardly wanted to just flop down on the couch now, when Laura was still up. "You alright?" he asks quietly.

Laura swallows hard and just takes another sip of her tea. But her hands had started to shake, and her grip was lost. The glass falls out of her hand, bouncing off the wall. It breaks, sending glass into a scattered mess, mixed with the tea that starts to immediately soak into the carpet.

Laura lets out a little wail and leans down quickly to clean it up. She just wasn't thinking straight though, and she reaches in too hastily, slicing her palm on a piece of glass. "Oh come on," she grumbles. But the wound had done its damage. A cut normally wouldn't bother her so much, but on a night like to night, she couldn't even predict her own reactions with the way her emotions were bouncing all over the place. Tears start to roll down her face, not so much from the cut, but from the inner wounds that she was trying to pretend didn't exist.

Ryder is quick to grab a couple towels from the kitchen - one for the mess and one for Laura's hand. "Easy does it," he prompts gently as he kneels next to her. "Did it get you bad?"

Laura shakes her head, though she can't get the tears to stop. All the bottled-up emotions that she'd kept inside since Bryce's attack were suddenly racing towards the surface, taking advantage of the opportunity when her wall had been lowered just enough.

"Got you good enough though, ay?" Ryder reaches over to take her hand.

Feeling his touch, Laura jumps back, suddenly thrown back into her pool of vulnerability.

"Hey, hey," Ryder soothes. "I'm not going to hurt you." His eyes begged her to trust him. He knew that while this was a very strong woman in front of him, everyone had their breaking point, and no matter what, at traumatic experience like she'd gone through was just that - traumatic. "I promise."

Maybe it was that she wasn't thinking straight. Maybe it was that Ryder seemed nice. Maybe it was that God knew Laura needed help. No matter the cause, she relents, giving Ryder her hand.

"There we are." Ryder wipes away some of the blood, then wraps the thin towel around her hand. "Put some pressure on that - it's not too deep." He turns to mop up the spilled drink, carefully picking up the pieces of glass.

The tears don't stop. "It hurts," Laura wimpers.

"I know. We should go wash it out."

"No, not that." Laura's voice wavers and she sniffs. "Inside. Everything. It just... hurts."

Ryder pauses and just looks at her, his true heart of compassion showing through. He did have a soft spot somewhere, and right now it was being touched. "I bet it does," he replies quietly. "But you got a lot of friends to help you out, right? Big brother... boyfriend... friends like Katie."

Laura chokes on a sob. "If I don't push all of them away first."

"Hey now..." Ryder leaves the mess for now and moves to sit next to her, their backs against the wall. "You got a right to be upset, ya know? They'll understand."

"Not Nate," she wimpers.

"Your boyfriend?"

Laura nods and draws in a shaky breath. "I broke up with him. That's how I thank him for wanting to take care of me. How horrible is that?" She wipes her eyes with the back of her hand, but the tears don't stop.

Ryder lifts his eyebrows. That must have hurt on both sides. "You don't think he'd understand that you're just going through a tough time?"

Laura shakes her head. "I've been terrible to him... ever since the beginning. I just... I get so scared."

"That he'll hurt you?"

"I don't know." Laura sniffs again, feeling like a blubbering idiot. She didn't even know why she was telling Ryder this. "No... no, he wouldn't ever hurt me."

"So what then?"

"I don't know." Breaking down, Laura burys her face in her hands, shaking as she sobs.

"Aw, hey now... take it easy." Ryder is totally out of his element, he didn't know what to do, and he didn't know how well he'd be received. But he couldn't just do nothing. He could go get Katie, but he hated to walk away like he didn't care.

Finally, he slips an arm around Laura's shoulders. "It's alright," he speaks quietly. "It'll all be alright. Morning is coming."


Axel grins as he fishes through the tall grass. "Novelty. Save the expired coupon for fifty ears when Taco Town is long gone, and it'll be worth money."

Laughing at his own dry humor, he shakes his head. "I don't know. There's no money in there to speak of, so I have to generate interest in the search with something."

It takes a few minutes, but Axel's hands finally find his wallet. "Aha!" He holds it up. "Got it. Now lets get out of here. I got crickets trying to crawl up my pantleg."

Standing up, he helps Jess up too and heads back to the road. Heaving a sigh, he takes one last look around. "Well... that's that then, I guess." Taking route back the way they come, the walk is the same. But this time, Axel lets his hand slip into Jess' to hold until they get back to the house.

Stepping up on the porch, Axel turns to Jess before opening the door. "Thanks, Jess..." He reaches out to tuck a strand of hair behind her ear. "You, um... you mean a lot to me, ya know that? Not many people would have given me the time of day after I'd run away. I just hope that..."

He stops, feeling the heat in his face again as he draws a little closer. "...that you stick around 'cause I need a good thunderstorm to keep me in line."

His hand moves to cradle the side of her face, his thumb mapping out the gentle curves. His eyes meet hers, his stare as deep as ever. "May I?" he whispers.

Crack

Feeling the sting from Laura's words Nate stops again. Why...why was this happing. His emotions were going up and down up and down.

The cracks grow bigger.

Go than stay, Nate was so confused and he didnt understand. Why did it have to be so hard. Turning around all the way the tears flood over in Nate's eyes as he cant hold them in. It was to much emotion to hold in for one person, even a strong person like Nate.

"Laura, you know darn well that I dont think your worthless, and I know you feel rotten at the moment. I understand that completely, but I dont know how to change that for you because you wont let me."

Nate was frustrated and he hurt. His heart being ripped in two. He wanted to say, but he new he should go. He wanted to wrap his arms around Laura but he new he shouldnt.

And the cracks grow.

"I walk away because I dont want to make you feel like crap and I know you need your space. I am walking away because I do understand your hurting, and you need time."

Nate takes in a sigh and lets his breath out again. His eyes showed no anger but only sadness.

"I can understand so much Laura but I cant just stand and let you throw daggers at me. I...dont feel sorry for myself, and I dont look at you like a kid. I see a woman infront of me that is hurting so much but wont let me help. I cant put myself through the torcher of just standing here and not being able to do anything, space, you want space and thats what I am giving you because I cant do anything alse."

Turning once again Nate continues to the house at a faster pace now and dosnt stop again this time as he move faster. For his own good and for Laura's he had to go even though it was the hardest thing in the world.

Disapearing inside Nate slowly makes his way into the kitchen. The tears are still stricken on his face but for now they have stoped.

Giving a small nod to Paula and Dan Nate stops but for a moment.

"Thank you very much for letting me speak with Laura."

Continuing through the kitchen and out the front door Nate gets into his car and starts it only to sit in the drive way for a moment longer. The tears forming in his eyes again as he rested his head on the stearing wheel. Now that he was alone they came with more force one after another.

Giving another laugh and shaking her head Jess slowly starts to decent the tree with Axel as he helps her down.

"I have to tell ya it was nice being in he tree but after you almost falling its good to have my feet back on the ground as well."

Brushing herself off just a little Jess moves a little ways away and drops to her hands and knees starting to look for the wallet.

"So what would be the point of an expired coupon if its no good?"

Jess laughs again as she continues to move and look for the wallet. The grass was thick and it was so dark out. she almost felt like this was looking for a pin in a hay stack.

Repeat

Finally, the tears start to sting Laura's eyes. She knew Nate's words were true. She knew it. She knew it in her heart. She knew what she really wanted. Why were things so complicated? Why did she feel so messed up? Why couldn't she just make up her mind?

"Don't walk away!" She yells at him, the frustration boiling over. Her fists ball at her sides as the first tear runs down her cheek. The first tear since this whole fiasco had started. The first sign of emotions since she had been attacked.

"Why can't you understand how I feel?! Why can't you try to understand how hard this thing is for me? Why can't you understand that I feel like the most worthless, unworthy person on the planet right now?! Why do you have to make me feel like crap for telling you I need space?"

Her lower lip starts to quiver. She didn't know what she was saying. One second she wanted Nate to leave, the next she didn't. Back and forth, back and forth, up and down. "Do you think I've changed so much, that you need to treat me with kid gloves?! Quit feeling sorry for yourself and just... just... stop it!"


"Aw, thanks." Axel smirks at Jess' teasing, though the humor is in his eyes. Settled back on the branch, he clears his throat. "Um, yeah... let's not have a repeat, or I'm liable to go all the way the next time."

While he meant falling all the way to the ground, he suddenly realizes that what he said could have been applied to the attempted kiss, and his eyes widen. He can't even look at Jess after that one, his face filling with heat once again.

"How about we just climb down and look for that wallet, hmm?" He rolls his eyes and carefully lowers himself to another branch, helping Jess down with him. Within minutes, they're back on the ground again, all in once piece.

"Alright..." Axel sets his hands on his hips and glances around the tall, dark grass. "I have no idea where to start."

He drops to his hands and knees, starting to look for his wallet. "First one to find it gets to keep the expired coupon for Taco Town," he announces.

True

Hearing Laura behind him Nate stops hanging his head for a moment. The night breeze was warm but aganst Nate's skin it felt cold.

What did Laura want from him or want him to do. She had made up her mind and had made her deistion. There was nothing he could say nothing he could differnt now to make her change that.

Finally looking over his shoulder at Laura he calls to her.

"Because thats what true love is. Thats how you know your ment to be with someone, because life isnt complete without that person there. That is how you know its true love and not just a messed up feeling Laura. Love endures all and has no limit."

Turning his head back around Nate continues his rout back to the house. His emotions still raging and his eyes still wet. What alse could he do?

Closing her eyes as Axel starts to come closer again Jess heart races, but the moment dosnt last long as it is shatter by Axel falling backwards. Quickly being replaces by him maybe falling.

Seeing that his lags have been wrapped around the tree and is now having upside down Jess cant help the small laugh the escaped her lips.

"You have to addmit now that you know your not gonna die, its a little but funny."

Jess holds up her fingers to thow a little space between them. Than shaking her head she leans over Axel a little grabbing his hand to help him up. Making sure he is safly on the branch again Jess gives another chuckel her eyes lighting up with laughter.

"How about we not do that again? I just got you back today, I dont want to have to lose you again!"

Tearless Emotions

Axel's eyes close for just a moment, unable to help but enjoy Jess' closeness as her lips brush his cheek. Looking back at her he shakes his head slowly. "Quit thanking me, Jess," he says quietly. "I'm only glad that whatever it is I do, makes you feel good. 'Cause I'd hate to see the embers die, now that I've seen that flame behind your eyes."

A small smile surfaces and he leans in a little closer, his forehead almost touching hers. A gentle breeze rustles the leaves around them, and the stars shine their lullaby. Axel's eyes reflect the depth of space itself, a vast ocean of feelings and thoughts that would take a lifetime to discover and understand.

Axel's breath slides across Jess's skin and his heart pounds even faster. He knew he would be allowed, but still he hesitates, unsure how this should work. Just as his lips begin to touch hers though, something happens.

Axel's hand slips on the rough bark, and suddenly, he's off balance. Teetering on the branch, his legs tense to try and balance himself back out again, but it's too late. Before he knows it, he has fallen backward off the branch.

Flailing arms do no good, but somehow he manages to catch himself with his legs, and winds up hanging upside down, his legs gripping the limb tightly as if he were swinging from a trapeze.

Out of breath, Axel blinks and looks up at Jess, his eyes wide. "Well now..." He clears his throat. "This is exciting." His wallet suddenly slips from his back pocket and plummets to the dark ground below. He groans. "I guess maybe I deserved this."

Struggling, he can't quite bring himself up all the way onto the branch again, and he holds out his hand. "A little help for a fallen rainbow?"


Seeing the tears in Nate's eyes is like a dagger being driven into Laura's soul. She looks up at him, helpless and hurting, not knowing what to do, or how to fix this whole big mess. She just wanted to feel good again... she just wanted to know where she belonged and who she was, and stop questioning herself. She just...

Laura looks up quickly as Nate starts to walk away. His parting words sting like nothing else. "Nate, no."

She stands up, her mind and heart pulled in two completely different directions. "I didn't... I mean... please just..."

Totally frustrated with herself, the irritation overrides the sorrow. Spying the ax on the ground, she picks it up, gripping the handle tightly and glaring at it. Giving a yell, she turns around and hurls it at the wood pile. It lands squarely into a log, splitting it down the middle. She was so hurt by recent events. She was so angry. She was so scared. Her emotions were off the charts every whichway, and she didn't know how to control them.

Spinning back around, Laura glares at Nate on route to the house. "Why do you do this to me?! I want to hate you and I can't! I want to push you away and all I can do is think about you! I want to let you go so you can live without my own hassles, and all I can do is think about how much I love you! Why do I have to be so stuck, Nate?! Why?!!"

No weakness

Tighting her own fingers around Axel's Jess listens to what he had to say. Jess loved taking in his words and just listing to them. Each one held a meaning of its own, each tone had a new emotion in it.

Getting hung up on Axel's sentince about the rainbow coming on its own she stops and thinks. What Axel said made sence in more than one why. Why rush anything in time when it was right it would come to be itself.

Scooting a little closer to Axel Jess leans in and gives him a soft kiss to the cheek. Before pulling away just a little and lookin deep into Axel's eyes. There was a differance between Axel and Carson a differnt feeling she felt. This one seemed, almost like it was more real than the other. It was a frighting feeling, but exciting at the same time.

"Thank you Axel. You make me feel so good you know that and I just....thank you."

Jess continues to look Axel in the eyes as her face still stayed close to his the smile on her lips, and the twinkle in her eye.

Looking down at Laura's hand it almost feels like someone has taken a sleghammer to his heart. Everything he felt, his reason for being here was thrown aside and even now Laura had turned him away.

"You dont always have to do things by yourself. There is no weakness in asking for help."

Feeling the tears well up in his eyes Nate stands letting Laura's hand slip from him. She was letting him go, she had broken up with him and that thought alone braught more tears to Nate's eyes.

Turning back to Laura the tears that feel from Nate's eyes glissen in the moonlight. Bringing a hand to the side of her face Nate aims with persition at running his finger gentil along her skin missing the cuts she had. Trying to give a smile Nate know it fales but trys anyways maybe to make his ownself feel better.

"I love you to Laura more than anyone I ever have before."

Dropping his hand from her face Nate lets out a small sigh trying to choak back the tears.

"I'm sorry I came and bothered you after you said you didnt want to see me. I just...wanted to make sure you were ok."

His voice quivering just a little Nate turns and makes his way back the path he had come placing his hands in his pockets. He'd go back to the house and say goodbye and thank you to Paula and Dan than he would leave. He did not belong here not anymore.

All on its own

Axel's heart gives a little start as Jess' hand cradles the side of his face. It was warmer and softer than he'd expected. He can feel the heat coming to his cheeks, and he's glad that it's dark. He might be confident in many many areas, but this was not one of them. This... right here... this was all new to him.

He swallows hard, wondering if he liked or hated it that his pulse had started to race. His voice comes out quieter, almost a whisper as if he's afraid he will say the wrong thing and shatter the moment.

"It's impossible for a rainbow to be too far from the storm. It's the storm itself that provided the way for the rainbow to shine to begin with..."

Without looking down, Axel shifts his hand so his fingers curl around Jess'. "A rainbow can't be caught any easier than the storm can be tamed. It's a wild animal, resisting capture. But feed it lightning, give it the thunder and bring the rains, and it will come... the rainbow will come all on its own."


Laura's gaze wanders everywhere but Nate's eyes, and she paces just a little. Finally though, she stops, and her focus lands on his stare. Those gentle eyes looked back at her with all the love and hope she'd ever seen. Never had she thought that a man could look at her the way he did.

"Oh, Nate." A half a smile is forced to the surface. Tears wanted to come, but she held them back, making her eyes glisten. She reaches up with her hand to run along the side of Nate's face. "I know I've made you feel left out. Even if I haven't acted like it, you have... become such an important part of my life."

Something close to a laugh comes out. "Even after all the trouble I gave you in the beginning. You stuck it out, and... I've always been impressed with that. You're not like other men I know. Your heart is so big and... and I can't even understand how you love someone like me. But I know you do. And... and I love you too."

Laura swallows hard and she finally sits back down, turning her head to bravely look at him as he continues. "But... I need to feel a whole lot more than just love right now. I've... I've been broken and I don't know how to fix it. I've been scared and I don't know where to find my confidence again. I... I just don't know who I am anymore, Nate, and..."

Searching Nate's eyes, she knows that with every word she spoke, and every second that passed, she was breaking just a little more of his heart. Reaching over, she takes his hands in hers. "I need to find myself again... I need to figure out who I am again and where I belong and what my purpose is again. And... I need to do that... on my own."

If she hadn't been so determined, an onslaught of tears surly would have come. She had no idea what this choice would mean. She had no idea how it would affect the future, good or bad. She had no idea if the paths ran parallel to meet up again, or if they went in opposite directions.

Laura looks down again. "I do love you, Nate," she says quietly. "But if... if you want to move on, I understand. I just... I don't know when I'll be ready to... to marry you. And... it's not fair, me keeping you waiting."

Catch a Rainbow

Feeling a bit of color that comes to her face Jess dosnt take her eyes from Axel's. Feeling the emotions inside of her cluster Jess is not sure how she would describe how she felt but it was there non the less and the comfrot her felt was nice. Something about Axel just something she had taken to and had grown to form a feeling she wasnt quite sure of. The smile on Jess face could lite up a dark room the moon just reflecting what was already there.

"To some I guess storms are amazing to look at, but to me its the rainbow after the storm that captured my gaze..."

Bringing her other hand up Jess brushes a peace of stray hair from Axel's forhead as her hand gently cubs his face her thumb running along his jaw bone.

Axel always made her feel good and dispite the scares, and the cuts, the bruses that remainded on her it was almost as if when she was with him they were gone. He never took not to them, or pointed them out like so many other people would. To Axel Jess was normal.

But was she good enough for someone as wonderful as him? Did she deserve this happyness she felt. Her fear is what kept her back from saying what she truly felt.

"... But how do you catch a rainbow that is so far out of reach for the likes of a lowly storm."

Staying seated Nate looks to Laura his eyes held a sadness. Some might interpertie as a disapointment or even a longing for something that was missing. But to Nate it was a feeling inside that couldnt be discribed, it was an emotion that made him want to cry even though he wasnt sure why.

"I'd...wish you would talk to me Laura. Its what I am here for. I dont want to pretend everything is ok when its not."

Nate couldnt help the emotion that was in his voice. He was so tired, and sad, maybe even a little bit of depression was thrown in there. He felt so many things at once it was hard to disypher them all.

"I just wish you woul let me be there for you. I dont like being on the outside and having to look in. I know you deserve your personal space and thats alright I just wish..."

Nate's words trail off as he moves his shoe through the grass the dim light reflecting off the blades. He wanted to say more, but he didnt want to say more. He wanted Laura to know how he felt but he didnt want to step over the line. Nate didnt know how far to go and how much to hold back. He was just so confused.

Unspoken

"Yeah, I'm always trying to find good hiding places, or lookout points," Axel admits. "Every once in a while I happen on a view that really is amazing."

Feeling Jess' hand on his, he instinctively realizes that something is different about this time. It wasn't his sore hand, and she wasn't trying to help... Turning his head, he catches her eye. A look was in her stare that hadn't been before. His gaze pierces her own as he tries to figure her out.

"I think I might have just found another one."


Laura looks down and gives a little nod. "I'm okay." She lifts her eyes to Nate again. "It's just... yeah." A short laugh surfaces. "I told Con I didn't want to see anybody 'cause I don't know... I just needed time to think... to clear my head."

She pauses again, swallowing hard. "Look... I don't know if now is a good time or not... After all the trouble you went through to get here, I'd rather just let the hard stuff go for now."

Laura stands up again, fidgeting with her gloves. It was obvious that there was a whole lot she wanted to say, but wasn't.

Brush

Getting to the outside of town Jess cant help but be amazed. Following Axel Jess gladly lets him take the lead out of town not knowing where they were going.. Everything was so amazing she couldnt help but look in aw.

Coming to the tree and just watching Axel climb it Jess cant help the smile that makes its way to her face. Taking Axel hand Jess climbs the tree with him.

For a moment Jess felt young again. There were times in her young life when she would forget all her cares and feel free. This reminded her of that and she liked it.

Fiding a comfortable spot next to Axel Jess swings her legs just a little. Looking out over the land Jess feels a contentness settle over her.

"Oh Axel this is amazing. Its like nothing I have even seen before."

As the sit is taken in the moonlight shines through the banches casting its light onto Jess making her eyes sparkle even more as the smile like non other remainds on her face. Bringing her hand down to rest it on the tree branch and give her more stability Jess hand goes ontop of Axel's. Looking down at it for a moment Jess dosnt move her hand. Finally looks up again she smiles at Axel as the strange flutter comes into her heart again.

Still sitting and leaning over Nate smiles. He new Laura must be jumpy and he didnt blam her one bit.

"I startled you I am sorry for that. Was trying not to but I new there really was no way around that."

Finally starting Nate turns to Laura searousness eched on her face.

"I came to see you."

Nate lets out a small sigh.

"I wanted to make sure you were ok with my own eyes. Its important to me to know you will be alright. Just...wanted to make sure."

Tree

Axel cocks his head a little, finding Jess' choice interesting. Even though she'd said that she trusted him despite his past record, this proved it, and it made him feel good.

"Alright. Dirt road it is then."

Taking the lead once more, Axel heads out of town. They ascend a small hill where the road becomes dirt, then once over the other side, the town is simply hidden from view. But as such, Axel had been right - it felt as though they were out in the middle of nowhere.

Walking just a ways farther, Axel stops where there is a big oak tree that grew up beside the road, it's branches hanging over the way. "I used to come here to think," he muses. "I did that a lot at one time... before Cryptic came along. It was always quiet out here... not many people come this way out of town. But..."

He looks to Jess, a small smile creasing his lips. It was almost sly, but not quite. "...you really can't get the full effect of the view until you see things the way I did."

Walking over to the tree, he finds the lowest branch and starts to climb up to the next nearest that was a long, sturdy limb. It was a little more difficult than anticipated with a numb hand, but he makes it, then offers Jess a hand up. Still grinning, he helps her up, then climbs two branches higher. One would think he was crazy to do it in the dark, but even after a year, he knew right where to put his feet. Helping Jess up again, he finally sits, scooting over just far enough so Jess can sit next to him, their legs dangling off the sturdy limb. And from there, the view was amazing.

Up above through the branches, the moon and stars shone brightly, a million little lights, twinkling in the clear sky. Across the land one could see the lights of nearby cities, and the darkness of forests where a shimmering river ran through.

Axel takes a deep breath of the fresh air. "A little bit of heaven," he muses quietly.


Still shocked by what she'd done, Laura can't even laugh, though something deep down wanted to. She sits down next to Nate and takes off her gloves. "I'm sorry," she apologizes again. "Mm... jumpy I guess."

Pausing, she looks down at her hands. "So what... why did you come?"

Trust

Walking with Axel in the fresh air feels nice. It had been a long time since she had just felt walked with out a destination.

Not even relizing how long they had been walking Jess wouldnt mind walk for miles more. It felt good, the fresh air felt even better.

Being given the three choises Jess thinks them over carfuly. Each one in her own mind meaning something differnt.

" I think, I'd like to take the dirt road and be in the middle of no where. I've never seen the stars and moon before."

Jess gives a smile to Axel. She trusted him whole heatedly, and had no fear that he would try to hurt her.

Not given enough time to react Nate is hit and drops to his knees holding his stomach. Silent for a moment he trys to catch his breath as the pain courses through his body and legs. Finally looking up at Laura with tears in his eyes he trys to smile at her.

"Well, I am glad to see you too."

Giving a cough Nate stands again though he is a little shaky. Going to sit down on a large stump he continues to try and catching his breath. Looking up at Laura again he can see the remnints on her face of what Bryace had done, once again thinking he had taken it to easy on the man who hurt his love.

"Remind me to stand farther back from now on so you can reach me eh?"

Reflexes

With a faint smile, Axel stands up too, and leads the way back upstairs. Telling Jess he'll be right back, he takes to the upstairs two steps at a time reemerging a few short minutes later with his sneakers on, and a hoodie thrown over his t-shirt.

Glancing into the living room, he sees that Derek and Gina had joined the kids in front of the tv. He catches Derek's eye and motions that they're stepping out, and Derek returns a short wave. He wouldn't lock the door until after they'd gotten back.

Axel opens the door for Jess so she can go out first, and within minutes, they're walking the sidewalk through the crisp night air. It was much cooler here than in Nevada, but the air had a refreshing feel to it. Though spring was around the corner, it still got a bit nippy at night.

Axel keeps the pace fairly slow, his hands tucked into his pockets. "It's been a while since I've walked this neighborhood," he mentions. "I used to all the time..."

Walking to the end of the second block, he stops and points. "There's a park up there a ways if you're interested. Or there's an all-night coffee shop the opposite way. Or..." He points straight ahead. "Town ends on a pretty dirt road that makes you feel like you're out in the middle of nowhere."


Laura had not even heard anyone come up behind her. She is so engrossed in taking her frustrations out on the woodpile that it didn't matter whose voice it is. Before it can even register in her mind, she is taken totally off guard.

Reflexes kick in. Without even thinking, she whirls around, not looking before she twirls the ax around and swings. The handle hits Nate squarely in the stomach before being turned again, the blunt side of the head coming up right where it counts.

Seeing Nate go down to his knees, Laura gasps, dropping the ax and putting a hand over her mouth. "Oh, Nate!" She kneels next to him and puts a hand to his shoulder. "I'm so sorry."

Only now in the dim light can the bruises on her face be seen, and the split lip that was slowly healing.

"Are you okay?" Worry courses through her eyes, and she feels stupid for having reacted so quickly.

As ever

Smiling back at Axel Jess cant help a flutter that happens in the bit of her stomach and the pitter of her heart. Looking down for a moment at Axel's fingers intertwined with her own before looking up at Axel again.

Moving her legs to stand Jess smiles still holding Axel's hand.

"A walk sounds great."

Giving a nod and returning the handshake to Paula Nate smiles and tells them thank you before going out the back door. From the pourch Nate can make out Laura's form by the wood pile. For a moment he just stands there before making his way over.

Drawing closer Nate stops again and just watches her for a moment. A new fear surfacing. What if she still didnt want to see Nate and turned him away? Nate didnt know if once he was there next to her he would be able to leave if asked without making things worse. Swallowing his own fear Nate makes his feet move on, he had to. He had come this far and even if Laura turned him away he just wanted to make sure she was ok. Thats all he wanted.

Standing back to keep enough room that Laura didnt feel as though she was crowded Nate gives a smile as he puts his hands in his pockets. He didnt want to startle Laura be he felt as though it might be inevitable.

"You know, even with the sweat and dirt from working so hard you still look as beautiful as ever."

Ax

Axel moves his fingers to curl around Jess' hand, stopping her from rubbing for a moment. "Jess..." He shakes his head. "No one is going to make you stay at a hotel. If you try, you're going to insult this family..."

He can't help a small smile. "...and me."

His eyes roam to the stairs, his nightly habit kicking in. "You wouldn't want to go for a walk, would you?"


Dan opens the door slowly, the look on his face one of caution. But hearing who this man is, a small smile forms. "Hi, Nate, nice to finally meet you. We've heard a lot about you. Yes, Laura's here, please come in." He opens the door wider for Nate to enter.

A few of the grandkids are in the living room watching a movie before their parents come to pick them up, and they turn around to eye Nate curiously, but none get up.

Dan leads Nate through to the kitchen where Paula is washing dishes. She turns around, a warm smile coming to her face. "Well, you must be Nate." She dries her hands and approaches to offer her own handshake. "Welcome."

Dan gives his wife a nod. "He'd like to see Laura."

Paula's eyes fill with a sadness. "She's been out back for several hours now." She looks to Nate with sympathy. "She wouldn't eat supper... said she wanted to blow off some steam, so she went for the wood pile. You can find her out there." She gestures to the back door.

Dan gives Nate a look of approval. "If you need anything, let us know." He opens the back door for him.


Laura takes another swing, the ax coming down hard into its target, splitting the piece of wood in half. The loud chop echoes through the dim yard. She only pauses a moment to wipe her brow with the leather glove on her hand before aiming and swinging again.

Her hair is sweaty, hanging down the sides of her face after escaping the rubber band that was meant to hold it back. One of Dan's flannel shirts hangs loosely over her t-shirt, the sleeves having long since been rolled up as the task had made her warm.

Another swing. Another small log split. Another frustrated yell. The muscles in her arms ache, but she doesn't stop. Anger glistens in her eyes.

The evening was darkening slowly, the sky clear and hanging onto the last light of dusk. A cool misty haze envelopes the yard, hiding most anything else from view. Laura didn't mind. She felt more alone this way. And that's why she'd come out here.

Her back to the house, she doesn't see the door open, and doesn't hear anyone approaching.

An angry yell comes forth along with another swing. The log doesn't split. Another chop follows, and another and another until the stubborn wood finally breaks in half. Laura stops to catch her breath, bending over as her heart raced from the exercise. Her jeans were damp and dirty, proving she'd been out here for hours already. She was tired... so tired. But she didn't want to sleep. She wanted to kill this terror inside of her. She wanted to destroy the weakness she felt.

Another log. Another chop. The ax's blade is driven down into the wood fibers.

Impose

Following the directions Nate feels like he is getting no where till finally breaking the harizon he sees a small farm house. Coming closer Nate can feel his heart beat faster. He hadnt seen Laura in so long, and thats all he wanted right now.

Pulling into the driveway it takes Nate a moment before getting out of the car. Just looking around he takes note to the few toys that layed in the yard, and the bikes that leaned up aganst the house he sure did hope he had the right place.

Walking to the door slowly Nate straitens out his shirt. Before coming here he had run home quick and changed cleaning up his own knuckles as well making sure he didnt look like a lunitic. Knocking on the door Nate waits till the door open. Smiling he inquires.

"Hello I'm Nate Driers."

Nate holds out his hand for a handshake as an offer of friendship and a sign of peace.

"I am looking for Laura if she is around?!"

Giving a soft smile it made Jess feel good that Axel liked when she helped with his hand. Meeting Axel's eyes Jess cant help but smile bigger forgetting the pain that is caused her as her cuts were being streched,

"It feels nice knowing that I can help you like that. Being needed for something. It feels nice. Thanks."

Continuing to help with Axel's hand Jess moves a little on the couch so she is face Axel more bringing her legs up and sitting indian style on the couch. She felt so comfortable and relaxed, for once in her life it felt like her worrys just melted away.

Thinking about Axel's offer to stay Jess smiles.

"I wouldnt mind sticking around. Maybe you could show me some of the sights. Though as for staying here, I can always find a hotel to stay at. I dont want to put Gena and Derek out or anything. They have a full house as is, and I dont mind staying close by."

Jess wanted to stay, she wanted to spend more time with Axel after coming such a long way, but she didnt want to impose saying she would stay here when an offer hadnt even been made. She really didnt mind staying in a hotel.