Something to do

Listening to Nate's words, another tear trickles down the side of Laura's face. While part of her wanted to run away, the other part wanted to stay and never let go. How Nate still loved her and wanted her after everything that had happened was beyond her. But knowing it was true, brought an irreplaceable feeling to her heart.

Trembling a little, Laura reaches up with her hand to cradle his face and just looks into the eyes that had once captured her. Leaning in, she gives his lips a light, warm kiss, then withdraws to bury her face in his chest again. "I know you have your own worries," she murmurs. She knew Maggie hadn't been well lately, and now felt selfish for letting her own troubles get in the way. "I'm... I'm sorry if I just add to your burden."

She closes her eyes, not caring about the work that was waiting. Her fingers play with a button on his shirt and she sniffs again. She had really gone through something horrid... but at the same time, she felt just a bit like a spoiled brat. Though her fears and frustrations had driven her emotions, she knew that she wasn't the only one involved here. Having been shown Ryder's kindness, and now Nate's acceptance, the fog was lifting ever so slowly, helping her see again that she was not the only one in pain.

Laura quiets down and shuts out everything around her, only hearing Nate's heartbeat. "I hate hurting you," she whispers. "How can I help you heal?"


Ryder ambles back out onto the main floor, feeling a bit out of place once more. Now that his deal with Alec was over, he was back to wandering again. The only difference was that his mind was just a tad bit foggy. He eats another cracker from the bag, not wanting to admit that perhaps there had been another reason for taking the angle of drinking with Alec.

Heading nowhere in particular, Ryder stops, glancing to his left and seeing just the tops of Nate's and Laura's heads. A small smile forms and he gives a nod. While scenes like that struck a sensitive cord in his heart, it was what he liked to see.

"Ryder!"

He whirls around to see Wyatt. "Hey."

"Want something to do?"

"How'd you guess?"

Wyatt laughs. "Our friend, Scott, is ready to go home from the hospital. I'm on duty to take him home and make sure no one is lurking around his place. We're gonna set up a couple cameras too. Want to come along?"

"Sure." Ryder finishes the last cracker and tosses the bag into the trash can. "Lead the way."

No matter what

Continuing to hold Laura close and just give her the comfort she so desperately needed. So many times in life the good people had to pay and how it upset Nate to no end. He hated seeing Laura like this, but now now he would start again and try to help her all he could.

"I wont, I promise you I wont."

Pulling Laura away enough he can look into her eyes Nate brings his hand up to the side of her face and brushes a lose peace of her hair behind her ear. Just looking into her eyes for a long moment before speaking again.

"Laura, you take as long as you need ok?! And know when you are ready I will be here, waiting for you and only you. But I want you to know I wont let you try and go through this alone alright? No matter what I am going to be with you to help because I do love and I dont want to see you alone in this."

Drawing her close to him again Nate gives the top of her head a kiss. So many things in life he has lost this was not going to be another that was added to the list.

"I look at you Laura, the same way I did when I first met you and I dont want you to think any different. Your beautiful, smart, and special to me that will never change."

Miserable

For some reason, Laura feels a little timid, but she lets Nate bring her close, and sets her papers down on his desk. Sliding into his lap and feeling his arms around her, she just sinks in closer, letting him hold her and resting her own head against his. He was so warm and so comfortable... she had missed sitting with him like this. She realized that now.

Knowing that Nate was crying, brought more tears to Laura's eyes too. She knew that she had hurt him... so many times... in so many different ways.

She swallows hard and just cuddles in tighter, wishing the world around them would just vanish. "You did everything right," she replies softly, sniffing just a little. "It's just me... this whole thing... to begin with, it was my fault, not yours. And then.... then this thing with Bryce it just messed me up, and I'm sorry."

Laura's voice wavers, but she manages to keep talking, and remain in Nate's arms. "I just don't know how to feel or what to do, and I feel alone even when I'm surrounded by friends. I just... I don't know how to deal with something like this... but I don't want to be alone...."

A few more tears trickle down her face. "I know I said I didn't want to marry you... and I know I've been doing a good job of pushing you away... but please..." She sniffs, her voice becoming a quiet whimper. "Please don't leave me. I'm miserable without you."

Unvearable

Looking up and back at Laura again Nate just studys her eyes for a moment. He still felt a ball of emotion but the fact that Laura though she lost him hit a cord in his heart.

Moving his chair away from his desk Nate reaches out and gently takes Laura's hand not caring she had papers in them. Gently bring her close to him he draws her into his lap to sit on his knee as he brings his strong arms around her and burys his face into her soft hair a few tears escaping from his eyes.

"I though I had lost you Laura, and that feeling was unbearable."

Keeping his face in her hair resting aganst her head Nate takes in a deep breath getting a wiff of Laura's sweet smelling hair. The tears still fill his eyes. He felt so foolish for being so emotional, but so much was on his mind it was hard at the moment.

"I've had so much going on Laura and I am just sorry if I didnt do something right."

Maybe

Carson quirks an eyebrow at Katie, still uneasy. "Come on, Hero. Level with me. Don't wait for the bigwig to do it. You know what's going on - I can tell."


Axel opens one eye, hearing Jess slide down on the floor, and feeling her take his hand. He shuts it again though, more relaxed than he had been in a long time. "It went okay, I think," he replies. "He seemed like he believed me... seemed like he was sorry for jumping on me without facts too, so I guess that's in my favor. He's gonna tell the rest of the gang so I don't have to... that much I'm glad of."

He pauses and just lets Jess work on his hand. It had hurt so bad this morning, and now it was bad enough that he couldn't even use it. He knew he needed to see a doctor about it, but yet didn't want to. "Thanks, Jess," he mentions quietly.

After a few quiet minutes, Axel realizes that he's almost falling asleep. Blinking, he withdraws his hand and moves to turn onto his side, leaving plenty of room in front of him on the couch. He gestures to her, offering her the space, only if she wanted it.


Laura bites her lip as Nate talks, her eyes concentrating on her papers. "You mean... I haven't... I mean..." She stumbles over her words, not even sure what she was trying to say. She remembered well her own words to Nate the night before. But today....

She swallows hard, a tear starting to surface. "I thought maybe... maybe I'd lost you for good."

I can help

Getting into the car with Carson Katie is quiet for a moment just thinking as she heads back to TJY. She didnt want to say to much for Carson because it was Reese place and not hers. Giving a chuckle before replying.

"You in trouble...never!"

Turning serous again she gives a shake of her head.

"No your not in trouble just Reese needs to talk to you about something is all."

Looking up at Laura quickly as he hears her voice Nate would almost think he was dreaming if she hadnt been standing right there. Hearing her voice was like water to a person who had non, food to a begger that was hungry.

"Hi"

Nate manages to say. Still looking at her and taking in how pretty she was even now Nate dosnt look away.

"I'm sorry to for not just letting you yell at me. I guess, I've just had a lot on my mind and I wasnt there for you. So for that I am sorry."

Wanted to say more Nate is not sure how to say it. But what harm could it do now right.

"I...still love you Laura. Its not something I can help. I just wanted you to know that."

Looking down at the papers on his desk Nate draws silent. He hope he didnt over step his bounds again saying that just something inside pushed him to, to just let Laura know how he still felt.

Easing down next to Axel Jess sits on the floor and as normal would have it reaches out to take Axel's hand and help him out.

"How did everything go with talking to Rocky?"

Jess had hurd some of the conversation but not everything as she tryed not to ease drop. She only hoped all went well and it would be a little easyer for Axel to return to Nevada though she had to admit, only being in the house a few days she would miss how comfortable it was too.

Pieces

Hearing the bell on the door, Carson looks up from the stove to glance out to the front. Seeing Katie, a smile spreads. Wiping his hands on his apron, he goes out to greet her at the counter. But hearing her tone of voice, his smile slowly fades. Something felt odd.

"Oh. Um, sure... I can come. Hang on a sec." Going back to the kitchen, he apologizes to Herb and says he'll be back. He takes off his apron and slaps his ballcap back on his head, going out to follow Katie to her car.

Once driving back to TJY, Carson gives Katie a sidelong glance. "What's this about, Kat? Am I in trouble for something?"


Laura wanders back from Susanne's office, papers in hand. Looking down and scanning the reports, she doesn't realize that she forgot to turn and instead, is walking down the wrong side of the room. Before getting too far, she stops, noticing her mistake. But she also notices where she was.

Turning, she looks in Nate's cubicle. She almost just turns around and walks away, but something keeps her there. She knew what she should do... it had been nagging inside of her all day.

Clearing her throat, she gets Nate's attention, and musters up something close to a faint smile. "Hi." She shifts her weight awkwardly, fidgeting with the papers in her hand. "I, um... I'm sorry that I yelled at you last night." Her gaze drops. "I... know you were only trying to help. Nothing was your fault, I just... needed someone to yell at I guess and you were it."


Axel eases down on the couch in the living room, lying down to stretch out on the cushions. The house was quiet. Nick and Liz were at school, Derek was at work, and Gina was gone to run errands. Axel closes his eyes as he rubs his hand absentmindedly, giving a deep sigh. He'd just gotten off the phone with Rocky. It had been a long call... parts had been awkward... but now the story was truly out in the open. Axel wasn't sure how the other guys would take it, or what this meant for him and Cryptic now... but he did feel a little bit better, and Rocky had even apologized for going on the attack so quickly. The whole thing felt strange. But... it was his own fault, and now the pieces needed to be picked back up again.

Stuck with me

Turning her head just a little to see Maria Charlotte cant help but rolls her eyes.

"I'm still here with ya babe, for a moment I had a pesky bug in my ear."

Consternating on the track again Charlotte does her best not to pay attachen to Maria. She wouldnt take crap from anyone but she didnt exactly want to go looking for a fight eather.

Looking to Kirk and Landon she gives a small nod with confadince in her voice.

"From what I head Bret was quite the hit back when he raced. He is closer to his old times with each day?! Theres no doubt he will be on top again soon."

Charlotte couldnt help the laugh that came from her lips. As she was proud of Bret, and new he could do it she just put in the little bit more info to show Maria she as well new what she was talking about before she even had a chanse to think differntly.

"As long as I have something to do with it anyways he will be. So I guess that means you guys will be stuck with seeing me around more often. Not that I mind, I think I like it here already. I'll be Bret's right hand lady at home, and here."

Charlotte gives a side long glance to Maria holding her toung from saying anything. Looking back to the track and consintrating on Bret.

Sitting at his desk Nate twirls his pencil around. For the last few hours he has tryed to consintrate on work but it just hadent worked. His mind kept skipping from one thing to another, from Laura, to his sister and back again.

Nate felt at his wits end with emotions and no where for them to go. Like a lost child that tryed to hold strong and sort through everything but just couldnt. He new things he should do, but just didnt know the right way to do them anymore without making the wrong turn.

Looking down at the picture on his desk Nate runs his fingers over Laura's sweet face. How he missed her voice, and how he missed her smile. Nate just wanted things to be like they were again, but they couldnt be specialy if Laura was intrested in someone alse now and it was partly his fault.

Heading out of TJY Katie gets into her car and heads in the direction of Mom and Pop's.

I'll be back J, just checking to see if Carson is at work to bring him back. I'll be back shortly.

Within minutes Katie is at Mom and Pop's making her way inside. Giving a nod to everyone Katie goes to the counter and motions for Carson to come out. Waiting till he is close enough so she dosnt have to shout Katie gives a smile but her eyes show there was more than a social call.

"Sorry to bother you are work and all Carson but Reese asked me to come and get you. We need you back at TJY its important."

I would

Luke looks up to Misty, the hope glistening in his eyes, the ever-present prayer running through his mind again. Still sitting next to the bed, he reaches down and takes Angel's hand in his, just staying quietly by her side. He wasn't about to leave.


"Your grandmother, eh?" Bret shifts gears, making the car fly around the far turn. "She must be quite the driver."

Landon chuckles and shakes his head. "Keep at him, Charlotte. You're firing him up."

"Hey, don't encourage her."

Landon's smile widens. "What are you gonna do about it?"

"Whoop your butt."

"How about just concentrating on your run?" Kirk suggests.

"Gotta spoil the fun, don't you?"

"When we got money riding on you, yes."

"Hey, Babe, while you're there, get these guys to lighten up. They're scaring me."

Landon snickers. "Fearless Sterling? Afraid? That'd be the day."

"He's only afraid of one thing."

Landon hears the female voice, not through the headset, but from beside him. He doesn't need to look. "Well, Maria, nice of you to join us."

"Aw for crying out loud. Get her out of here."

Maria leans on the railing. "How's the speeding bullet doing today? Still missing his target?"

"Careful," Kirk warns. "He's beating his time from last week."

"Well, that's an improvement. He does realize Pat still has him beat though, right?"

"Pat's not racing against him this weekend," Kirk reminds.

"Your loss." Maria tilts her chin a little higher, her eyes narrowing. "You could draw a much better crowd if you'd put him in the forefront instead of dragging up this old news."

"Yo, did I lose you guys or what? What's happening?"

"Little static," Landon remarks into the mic. "Hang loose. Watch that curve."

Maria glances past Landon, giving Charlotte a once-over before returning her eyes to the track.


Smart thinking? Drinking half a bottle of whiskey?
Jason shakes his head.
Well, at least it worked. You're right about Carson though - he did say the rest of his family was dead. Maybe it's hardly a relative at all... though he does look like Carson.

Reese turns around, looking at the others. "Jason, go get Ryder out of there. And... Katie? Would you mind going and bringing Carson back here? I think we should talk to him."


Jason wanders down to the lower level, getting to the holding cell and opening the door. Ryder is standing and waiting, giving a nod of thanks as he exits. "Whew. Thought I was never gonna get that guy to talk."

Jason quirks an eyebrow and looks at the bottle. "I can't believe you can even stand up."

Ryder starts to grin. "Anybody who can drink me under the table has my respect."

"It doesn't affect you at all?"

Ryder thinks and takes a look at the bottle. "Another few shots and I'da started getting tipsy. As it is, I need to get something in my stomach before all this comes back up again."

"Break room this way," Jason directs quickly. "We're not cleaning up your mess."

Ryder grins and follows Jason back upstairs to the break room, feeling just a little bit dizzy. Once there, he heads for the vending machine to find something quick and easy to get into his stomach.

Jason stands a moment, just watching him. there were a lot of things about Ryder he didn't quiet understand. One thing he'd decided to let go, but now as he was left alone with Ryder, he changed his mind. “Hey, Ryder...you, uh… you got something going on with Laura?”

Ryder turns around and lifts his eyebrows. “Not last I knew. Why?”

“You know she’s taken.”

Ryder folds his arms across his chest, cocking his head at Jason. “Nate?”

“Yeah.”

“Well... not that this has any bearing on my actions, but as far as I know, Laura and Nate aren’t exactly an item right now.”

“What are you talking about?”

“Look, I shouldn’t go around yacking about it.” Ryder didn't know who might be walking by, so he was just a little bit guarded.

Jason takes a step closer to him. “Tell me,” he directs sternly.

“Alright, settle down. All I know is that Laura turned Nate down and now they’re on the outs.”

Jason was surprised by this. Last he’d known, Nate and Laura had been getting along very well. He’d thought lately they’d seemed just a little tense, but hadn’t thought a whole lot of it. He and Laura had always been pretty close… but she hadn’t said anything to him about it. But Ryder didn’t appear to be making it up. “Oh.” He furrows his brow. “Well regardless, why are you getting her flowers and all that?”

“Don’t you think she deserves to feel good about herself?”

“Well of course but…”

“But what?” Ryder shakes his head. “Does there need to be a reason other than making her smile?”

“I don’t get it. You don’t even know her.”

“I don’t have to, to know that she deserves to find just a little happiness out of the blue. To know that it’s the little things that will make her smile and remember that she’s worth it.”

Jason is still skeptical. “Don’t you think you’re overstepping your bounds?”

“You want to lose her to suicide?”

“Now you think Laura is suicidal?”

“No, but we might as well not even let it get close.” A faint, compassionate smile surfaces. “I don’t know if you noticed, but right about now, Laura feels like secondhand goods, who has hurt those around her to boot. She’s scared, she doesn’t know what she wants, she’s tired of fighting, but her habit is to battle until the death. And you condemn me for wanting to bring her just a little attention so she knows that she’s still worth a man’s interest?”

Jason frowns, but doesn’t really have much to argue with. “What if she were your girl?” he questions. “What would you do then?”

Ryder shakes his head slowly, and for a moment, the room is deathly quiet until he speak again in a hushed tone. “I would never stop telling her I love her, no matter if she's listening or not. I would do everything in my power to show her that in me there would be nothing to fear. I would show her that it didn't matter what she did, my love would never change. I would call her on the phone just to say hi. I would write her a letter telling her of my love, so when I'm gone, she'd still have my words. Every chance I'd get, I'd spend time with her and tell her how special she is. I'd memorize her favorite books, movies, flowers and ice cream, just so some night I could surprise her with an evening especially for her.”

His eyes gain a far away look as he continues to stare at Jason. “I'd give away my heart with no intention of ever getting it back. Until the day she'd say she didn't love me in return, I'd be at her doorstep, waiting just for her. Until the day she'd wear another man's name, I'd never give up on her. And if that day ever did come, I would leave happy still because I had lived and loved like no other.”

Jason just stands, a little stunned. Where had this depth come from? “That’s…”

“What Laura deserves.” Ryder purses his lips. “Still want to condemn me?”

“N… no.” Jason looks down then back up. “I’m just… looking out for my friend.”

“Don’t you think Nate should be doing that?”

“Apparently you’re trying to steal his job then, not me.”

“Naw, mate.” Ryder shakes his head. “You just don’t get it, do you?”

“I guess maybe I don’t.”

Ryder contemplates for a moment. “I hope you do before you lose Katie.”

Jason gets a little defensive. “I think I’m doing a fine job, thank you very much.”

“But do you really love her?”

“Of course I do.”

“Then act like it.”

“I do!”

Ryder searches Jason’s eyes. “Then why would she accept the kiss of another man?”

Jason immediately locks down his emotions, his eyes narrowing. “What are you talking about?” he hisses.

Ryder rolls his eyes. “It was my fault, alright? I just… got carried away.”

“If you hurt one hair on her head, so help me, I’ll…”

“Take it easy.” Ryder holds up his hands. “Do I look like I want to hurt her? Does she act like I hurt her?”

Jason eyes him cautiously. “No.”

“That’s right. Look, I’m sorry, and it won’t happen again, you have my word. I did want you to know though, because I don’t like secrets. Not like that.”

Jason shakes his head. “Great,” he mutters. “There won’t be any between her and me either.”

“Don’t bring it up to her,” Ryder requests. “Like I said, it was me. Don’t embarrass her. It’s not worth that heartache because there’s nothing there. Just do one thing.”

“What?”

“Don’t let her wish for something more than you.” Ryder pauses, bringing both subjects back together again. “I see Laura, scared and alone, just wanting love. At least her I can help smile because I’m allowed at the moment. But Katie… she’s full of life and adventure, but longing for more… and I can’t help with that because she’s yours.”

Jason just stares at Ryder, not sure how to take any of this. He felt like getting mad, but for some reason it was almost like he couldn’t.

Ryder sighs, and aims for the door. “I’ll see you later, Jason.”

Wow

"Ha...you do that and if you need it I have a packet of ketchup here on the floor..."

Alice moves her foot a little that was not on the gas pettle to here a poping sound. Her eyes opening wide she cant help the laugh.

"...never mind unless you wanna whip it up off the floor of my jeep."

Finally ending the call so she could consintrate on driving Alice shakes her head a little the smile was bigger than ever on her face. This was going to be a blast, more than she exspected.

I'm on my way.

Katie gets up from her cubicle and wonders down the hallway making her way into the control room.

Squinting just a little Katie looks at the screen as she makes her way into the room. Coming up behind Jason she didnt say anything knowing he would feel a little more that she was there.

Does he have what I think he does in his hand?

Continuing to watch on Katie's own question is answered. A bit impressed by Ryder's skill to get Alec to talk Katie nods just a little to herself.

Have to addmit that was pretty smart thinking. We should keep Ryder around here he could come in handy for a few things.

Finally as the whole thing comes to an end Katie mouth hangs open finding out Alec's last name. Something told her Carson didnt know anything about him and it was going to be just as much a shock to him.

I...dont think he knows about Alec. When he gave us his history he said his family besides Dani was killed. Wow...this is....wow.

Laying in the bed Angel's shiver stop, and her breathing seems to become a little more normal though her eyes were still closed like she was in a deep sleep.

Seeing the slight change in Angel Misty makes her way over checking there pashent out from head to toe once again. Giving a small nod she looks up to everyone.

"Angel is not out of the woods yet but her breathing has become normal once again and her heart rate is down and that is a good thing. I do believe the antidote is starting to work. I'll stay here the rest of the night to keep an eye on her and make sure she continues to do alright."

Giving a smile Misty gives Luke a small pat on the shoulder. Though Angel was farm from ok she was getting better and this was hope that she would be alright. She new Luke had been through so much now if he could only hold out for a little longer as well.

After interductions are made and jokes are finished Charlotte couldnt deny she was having a blast more fun than she though she would.

As Bret makes his way out to the car Charlotte slips the head set on excited to finally see him behind the wheel. Leaning on the metal railing that outlined the track Charlotte watches Bret intently throwing in her own humor here and there.

"You know Babe, my grandmother could drive faster than that, how about you pick it up a bit."

Enjoying the good time, and watching Bret Charlotte feels right in at home joking with the others like she was one of the guys. Not bothering to make her own comment about Maria. Though it had been a sad loss for her, it had been a great gain for Charlotte that she wouldnt change for anything in the world.

Banks

Ryder studies Nate for a moment, fully aware of the vibe that said "leave me alone." He wasn't surprised. Yet he still stood for several seconds, still watching, still contemplating. "You know," he muses aloud, "it was always the feisty crocs that I liked the most. If I didn't have to fight to stay alive, winning just never seemed quit as fulfilling."

He gives a shrug, leaving it at that before simply walking away. Once in the hall, he wanders for a while, eventually coming on one of the control rooms. Inside was Reese, studying one of the monitors.

"Knock knock."

Reese turns around. "Oh, hey, Ryder, come on in. Settling in?"

"Getting there." Ryder tucks his thumbs in his pockets and looks to the screen. It was showing the security camera's view in the holding cell. "Ah, this is the guy I've heard about, eh?"

"Probably. Can't get anywhere with him. Won't say a word. "

Ryder studies the screen, watching the prisoner's body language. "Nothing huh?"

"Nope." Reese shakes his head. "Last night we got nothing. This morning I brought him up and still got nowhere. He's hardly had anything to eat or drink, and we keep handcuffing him back to that stupid pipe."

Ryder grins a little. "Whose idea was that?"

"Our resident tank. Well... not so resident anymore." Reese sighs. "This guy's just about rubbed his wrist raw though trying to slip out of those things, but it's no use. I don't know if he's stretching his intelligence by staying quiet or if he's just plain stupid. We haven't even got his name."

"So what happens next?"

"More pressure probably. But if we can't get him to talk, he goes down to the station without a chance of making any deals. I thought about getting Carson to come in and see what he could do."

"Yeah, he's good at torture, isn't he?"

Reese quirks an eyebrow at the underlying tone of bitterness. "Yes... I suppose he is."

"Hmm." Ryder squints at the monitor. "I'll avago."

"You?"

"Why not? Don't have anything better to do, and I can't do any harm. Worst that happens is that he doesn't talk to me either."

"True..." Reese shrugs. "Fine. I can come with you so we can take him into the interrogation room."

"Nah, leave him there." Ryder heads for the door. "Where's that maintenance kid?"

"Ty? Don't know." Reese looks at his watch. "Might be gone for the day, why?"

"Just wondering..." Ryder leaves Reese hanging as he wanders down the hall, aiming for downstairs. Once there, he spots Ty. "Hey, kid. How old are you?"

Ty ties up the last of the garbage bags, and looks at Ryder skeptically. "Twenty-one. What's it to you?"

"Good." Ryder digs some cash from his pocket. "I need you to run down to the nearest liquor store."

Ty's eyes widen. "What for?"

"Water." Ryder rolls his eyes. "Get a bottle of whiskey and bring it back here. Sealed, mind you."

Ty smirks and takes the bill. "Don't worry, I won't steal any. Do I dare ask what it's for?"

Ryder grins. "What else but to drink it? Now get going." Once Ty is gone, Ryder paces out in the hall, every once in a while glancing in on the prisoner. It looked like his shoulder was healing up nicely. But from the look on his face, one would have guessed that he was in a deep, dark dungeon somewhere.

It doesn't take too long, and Ty comes back, bearing a brown paper bag. Ryder gives him a nod and takes it. "Thanks."

"Yeah sure... Now what?"

Ryder grins and takes out the bottle, opening it up. He takes a swig, then offers some to Ty. "Join me?"

Ty looks at him skeptically. "I thought you were here to interrogate. No... thanks."

Ryder shrugs and takes another sip, letting it burn down his throat before replying. "Your loss." He ambles to the door and scans the keypad. "Got the code?"

"Sure." Ty reaches around him and punches it in. It beeps and the lock clicks.

"Fantastic." Ryder takes another swig of whiskey and winces a little. "Alright...." He stands up a little straighter, his hand on the door handle. Out of nowhere, he starts to raise his voice with an irritated tone. "Fine! You want me out of the way, great! But don't come crying when you need me back on the job!"

He gives Ty a sidelong glance. "Throw me in."

Clueless, but finding this ridiculous enough to play along, Ty just shakes his head and positions himself at the door. "Oh, shut up," he grumbles. Opening the door, he gives Ryder a quick shove.

Ryder stumbles inside, whirling around to bang his fists on the door that slams in his face. "And tell Reese he can just find someone to replace me!" Growling, he turns around to glare at the stranger. "What are you looking at?"

Alec quirks an eyebrow. "Don't know, but looks to me like an idiot."

"Yeah, well maybe you're right." Ryder takes another gulp of whiskey and wipes his mouth before flopping down on the cot. "'I'm late,' he says. 'Can't do anything right,' he says. 'No drinking on the job,' he says. Yeah... well he can just forget about me showing up for work again."

Alec stares at his new cellmate skeptically. "So why would they throw you in here instead of kicking you out the door?"

"Ha! That would be too easy for 'em." Ryder shakes his head. "You know Reese. Always gotta make a point. He thinks he can get me to stay by giving me some form of punishment. Won't work though." He downs another mouthful of alcohol. "Join me?"

Alec licks his dry lips. "Why not. They won't give me anything but crap down here."

"Of course. They just want to get under your skin." Ryder moves to sit on the edge of the cot, reaching out the bottle.

Alec reaches it with his free hand and takes a swig before handing it back.

Ryder helps himself again. "Heard you got caught tryin' to interrogate one of our guys or something."

"Or something." Alec rolls his eyes. "Got took down by a crazy loon. Once I'm out of here, I'll be paying for that mistake."

"Better than here though, ay?"

"Anything is better than this dump."

"What on earth is he doing?" Reese folds his arms and just stares at the monitor. Several others had joined him by now, in the control room, to observe Ryder and their prisoner. They could hear what was being said, and for the last half hour, Ryder had been working on the stranger, but hadn't gotten too far yet.

Jason stares over Reese's shoulder. "Is that a bottle of whiskey he's got?"

"Yep."

"My word, is there anything left in it?"

"Hardly."

Jason's eyes widen. "He shared it?"

"Hardly."

"Well good grief. He's got to be snockered beyond snockered!"
Hey, Katie, you better come in here and see what our new friend is up to. He's crazy.

Ryder laughs at something absurd he'd said, and looks over at Alec. By now he was sitting on the floor next to him, sharing in the absurdity. "What'd they call you anyhow?" he asks, a bit slurred.

Alec rolls his eyes, feeling a bit woozy. "The best," he quips.

"Well, when we get out of here, we gonna march straight up to... to..."

"Reese?"

"Thats right," Ryder nods emphatically. "Reese. And we're gonna say..." He takes yet another swig of whiskey, followed by a hiccup. "We're gonna say.... Reese! Me and... and..." he thumbs to the side. "Er..."

"Alec."

"Yes. Me and Alec. We are out of here!"

Reese's eyes widen. "He got it. He got his name."

"Tis right, mate. Me, Mr. Ryder Billings, and the best of the best here, Alec Hughes."

Alec snorts. "Banks."

Reese's jaw drops. "Banks? You've got to be kidding me..."

"Right. Alec Banks." Ryder toasts the name and drinks some more. "We're off to greater things. I don't got a boss to tell me what to do anymore. Reese no longer exists in my book."

"Amen." Alec nods, falling into his own drunken state. "Erica isn't gonna get away with nothing no more. I'm through with taking orders."

"Right."

Reese just shakes his head, still watching and listening. In the next ten minutes, Ryder had gotten names, locations and a confession out of Alec. "Holy cow."

Jason is standing, just as surprised.
Banks? That guy is a Banks? That can't be a coincidence. That's... I mean... Carson ever say anything to you about a relative in the Agency? And then Ryder... he's.... good grief.

Alec gives another last slurred statement before leaning his head back against the wall and closing his eyes, drifting into a foggy stupor.

Ryder squints into his bottle, measuring what's left, and takes another swig. Then looking up at the camera as sober as could be, he tosses a wink to those he knew were watching. "Somebody wanna come get me out of here?" he asks clearly.


The infirmary is tense, all just waiting... watching. Dark circles outline Luke's eyes as he watches Misty administer the antidote. Though he didn't move, on the inside, he was alive with hope.

Jeff paces at one end, glancing their way every so often. Luke hadn't been sleeping and hardly eating. Both were sick with worry. They had called home a couple times with general reports. But Luke had still said not to tell Wendy. If the antidote did nothing to help, then they would have Wendy brought in immediately. But until they knew that, Luke didn't want her to worry, risking her or the baby's health.

So now... they just waited... and waited.


"Ohhh." Bret chuckles and swings an arm out to pull Charlotte back in close. "Let's not have a clash of claws, shall we? I want to leave here today without battle scars."

Landon grins, looking at the sass in Charlotte's eyes. "I have a feeling Maria might get a few of her own if she clashed with you."

"Don't encourage her," Bret chides. He gives Charlotte a squeeze, then a light kiss on the lips. "Come on, I've been dying to show you off to the rest of the guys."

Introductions are made, all the guys loving to meet Charlotte, right at home with cracking jokes with her, and no one afraid to mention Maria. It was apparent that everyone knew about her and Bret, and everyone also knew that Bret was now happily married. Since nothing was secret, no one cared about kidding around with it, even though Bret cut them off a couple times.

It isn't long before Bret goes for a run in one of the cars and is on the track, the guys talking to him through headsets as they watch him drive. Landon gives Charlotte a mic too, letting her in on the fun if she wanted it.


Kyle answers the phone and grins when he hears Alice. Moving his mouth from the phone, he shouts to the others. "Hey, anybody seen a crazy guy around here?!"

"Yes, you!!"

Kyle gets back on the phone. "Well thanks for the warning, but no one here has seen him. If I happen across him though, I'll be sure to approach with caution, then lure him away with a french fry I found in the seat."

Talons

Hearing Laura had come in a little bit ago Nate lets a sigh out. He had to at least say Hi to her or it would drive him crazy.

Standing Nate goes to exit his cubicle but stops. Seeing Ryder standing there with flowers and Laura taking them a suddon feeling forms in the pit of his stomach. The laugh and smile on her face, Nate felt like his heart was being ripped once again. Maybe he really wasnt worthy of having Laura's love after all. Or maybe it was just him all togter that Laura didnt like anymore. Feeling the sadness inside hurt, and he didnt like it. Wonder if he did something wrong, wondering if maybe he was just not good enough for Laura after all.

Sinking back down in his computer chair Nate trys to consintrate but the feels inside him just wouldnt go away. He was sad, he was angry, and he just plan hurt. Nate wanted to hid now, just hide away. He felt misrale.

Hearing Ryder's voice Nate dosnt even turn his head as he continues to look at his computer screen. The sooner he could get Ryder to leave the better, he didnt want to have to deal with the guy who obvesly could make Laura smile more than he could.

"Morning!"

Was the only short answer Nate had to offer as he continues to stair at his computer screen. Though he wasnt reading it, it gave the illustion that he was. His mind was so far away and his feelings just continued to clash with eachother.

Standing next to Rick Misty slowly picks up the vial. She could feel her heart beating so fast in her chest. Misty wanted this to work for Angel but with out having something to test it on there really was no way of knowing. But they had to try for Angel's sake and everyone alses who new her.

"I'm ready..."

Getting a saringe ready Misty fills it from the vial. There was only one way to find out if it was going to work. Going over to Angel Misty looks down on her for a moment before checking her vitals. Than taking her IV she slowly injects antidote into it.

"Now all we can do is wait. It shouldnt take long for it to start working, but till than we wait."

Alice cant help the laughter as she gets back into her Jeep and starts out after the bus. Laughing again as she see the sign and than Kyle going flying.

Taking out her phone fast she dials Kyle. Finally having him answer she trys to hold back the laughter.

"You might wanna tell the other on the bus they have a crazy person on there hands. I think I saw him go flying in the back somewhere."

Charlotte clings to Bret's arm as she is introduced to everyone the smile never leaving her face.

"Him make excuses never?"

She cant help the sassy grin that forms on her lips as she leans up to give her husband a quick kiss. Its not till the comment of the wildcat does Charlotte let go of Bret's arm and turns around. A nother smile of a differnt kind forms on her face.

"So thats her huh?"

Continuing to look she feels no anger, or hate twords this other woman only sadness.

"I'd let to see her try and bring her claws around here. I do have talons of my own."

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.