Orders

It was a rare occasion that Jason would accept help without argument, but for once, when Nate approaches, he doesn't resist. Instead, he lets his friend help steady him as they walk, still trying to find his balance.

"The park. I don't know what happened. Katie started shouting at me then all of a sudden we got shut down. The connection is completely gone. We can't communicate and I don't know why." He stops at the door, letting Nate and Trooper out first, then follows after.

"Rick just developed something to knock the whole system offline, so I'm not dead, but I don't know about Katie."

He pauses at the car, looking at Nate grimly. "Either there's an outside force that shut her down like what Rick just gave me, or she's dead."

The thought alone made Jason's stomach churn. But for now he would push ahead and try not to come up with too many theories on his own. They had to look to the park first...


"There's Katie's car." Jason points to the vehicle in the parking lot. He's out of Nate's car in a flash, Trooper right behind. Getting to the car, Jason looks around. Nothing seemed out of place. Finding the door unlocked, he looks around inside, but still finds nothing.

Straightening, he looks around the park. It was big. No one was gathered anywhere. Nothing seemed out of the ordinary. He looks to Nate. "Something isn't right.... something is really strange here."

Ducking into the back seat of Katie's car, he retrieves a shirt that she'd left in there at some point. Pulling it out, he kneels in front of Trooper, giving him a good whiff. "Katie," he directs. "Find Katie."

Having a command to go on, Trooper's behavior shifts into work mode. On duty, he sets to work, sniffing around the car, then takes off running into the park. Jason is quick to follow, sprinting after him, even though some nausea had set in.

It takes a few minutes, but Trooper leads them to the spot where Katie's badge was lying. Jason stops and just stares at it for a moment, the churning in his stomach worsening. He looks to Nate, the worry filling his eyes.

Slowly he kneels down to pick up the badge. Seeing the blood on the ground, his worry increases. "She's not dead," he states decidedly. "If someone was just out to kill her, they wouldn't have bothered to take the body."

Trooper is still sniffing around and gives out a short woof. He trots back to the parking lot where he winds up at an empty parking space.

Still holding Katie's badge, Jason goes to the parking space, spotting traces of oil. "Whoever parked here has a minor oil leak," he comments. He knew that was a long shot. Who could tell how many cars had been there this morning. He looks back to Nate. "We have to get back to TJY and start an investigation."

Once back to TJY, Jason has grown stronger physically, and is able to lead the way back into the building. Inside, it's obvious that the word has already spread. Reese is right there to meet them.

"Jason, what happened?"

"Katie's been taking. She might be hurt." Jason doesn't stop walking.

Reese looks to Nate with question, then back to Jason. "Can you tell?"

"No." Jason stops by Jamie's desk, without missing a beat. "Jamie, I need you to track all Katie's recent correspondence with outside sources. I don't care if it's just personal phone messages - I want to know about them. And call Con. He should know about this."

Sidling past Reese, he aims for Scott and Dalton's office. "Scott?"

Scott looks up quickly, startled. "Yeah?"

"Katie's missing. I want you to retrieve satellite from the area surrounding the city park this morning up until about half an hour ago."

Though fear surges through Scott at the thought of something happening to Katie, he turns to his computer. "I'm on it."

"Good." On to the infirmary, Jason pokes his head in to see Misty. "Misty? Call Carson. If there's any way he can get away from the restaurant, have him do it. I want him on this case."

"Jason..." Reese tries to slow him down, but it's no use. He turns to look at Nate again, throwing up his arms in exasperation. He didn't even want Jason heading this up - he was too emotionally driven. But unless he wanted to hogtie him, he just needed to let Jason run at this point.

Jason is already back to his office to try and sort some things out, but a wave of dizziness makes him stop and lean on the doorway.

Badge and Blood

Hearing Rick's voice over the intercom Nate's eyes drift to where he saw Jason and Trooper walking twards the door. Jason looked like he has just been hit by a bus. Knowing Katie was in trouble made himself worry and put a fear in him.

"Alright I'm on it. Let Reese know whats going on."

Standing quickly Nate grabs his jacket and jogs after Jason putting his arm around him to help sapport him slightly as they walk out to the car.

"I'll drive, where are we heading Hotshot and what happend?'

As the park layed quit the only remints of what happend was a TJY badge and some blood spilled next to it tell its own story of what might of happend. Everyone alse uawair of the tradigy that happend today.

Bandaid

Dani sighs and nods. "Thank you, Dalton... for bringing me down here. I appreciate it. I'll probably want to come back again. I know Alec doesn't want to see me, but... I want to try talking to him again anyway."

She starts for the stairs, now wondering how she would tell Carson that she'd been here.


Jason gives a little laugh at Katie's comment about the ducks, but lets their conversation taper off as he gets up to go to the break room. Wandering down the hall, he enters the quiet room to grab a paper cup and fill it with water. Taking a sip, he sighs deeply. He was tired today. But lunch would perk him up, then it would only be a few more hours until he could go home.

Ambling back out of the break room, he's just taking another sip of water when suddenly all of his emotions come flying back at him like a freight train.

Falling back against the wall, Jason gasps, his water plummeting to the floor. His eyes go wide as he mind races, trying to understand what was happening. It felt like Katie had reversed the river's flow. Cringing, he finally deciphers Katie's cry for help.

Katie… what's wrong?! What….

But he can say no more. Just as quickly as Katie had hurled his emotions back at him, she was gone. A dam had been raised, and it was secure. There were no cracks or crevices to let emotions through. There was nothing.

Jason gasps for air as he slowly slides to the floor. He puts a hand to his chest as the pressure builds, the pain increasing by the second.

Katie… what… happened… why….

Wheezing, Jason rolls over to his hands and knees, looking down the hall. Everything seemed just a bit blurry. Mustering up his energy, he cries out. "Rick! ….Rick!"

In the infirmary, Rick is working at the lab table, when suddenly he hears Jason's cry. He looks to Misty, then shoots out of the room into the hall. Seeing Jason, he sucks in his breath. "Jason… What's wrong? What happened?"

Jason continues to gasp for breath. "Katie… I don't know… I've been.. cut off."

"Come here… take it easy." Rick reaches down, helping Jason up off the floor with difficulty. Managing to get him to the infirmary, he gets Jason to the table where Jason obediently lies down.

The pain continues to increase and he rolls over onto his side, doubling up. Everything was spinning. He couldn't breathe. He couldn't escape the torture. His eyes find Misty, filling with tears from the pain.

Rick is right by his side. "Jason… Jason listen to me. Shut off your own emotions. Shut off as much as you can." No response. "Jason, come on…. It will help relieve some of the pressure. I have to be able to talk to you."

Jason tries to catch his breath, and forces himself to shut down. It's like putting a bandaid on a crack in a river's dam, but it's enough for him to make sense of what Rick was saying. "I can't hold it," he mumbles.

Rick desperately tries to figure out what's happening. "What's the difference between you shutting down and Katie shutting you out?"

"I don't… I don't know. I haven't…" Jason gasps for air. "I haven't shut down completely in a… a long time."

"You think it's evolved? You think you can't even shut her out completely anymore?"

Jason manages a nod. It felt that way. Unfortunately, it made sense. The connection had grown ever stronger. At this point, anything that severed it, whether it was by their own will or not, would kill them both.

Rick paces, throwing a desperate glance in Misty's direction, then back to Jason. "What do I do, Jason?"

"You were working on… on… something… right?" Jason winces and pulls himself in tighter as the pain shoots through his system.

"Yes, but I'm still experimenting! I developed a temporary fix just last night, but I don't know if it will work or not. I have no guarantees yet. I haven't tested it enough."

"Give it to me."

"I can't do that, Jason. It might do more harm than good. Besides that, what about Katie? If you're cut off, where does that leave her?"

Jason knew that whatever had happened, Katie had been cut off first. And whatever had caused it, would probably last a while. His greatest fear was that an accident had happened. The only thing that could truly separate them was death. But he couldn't think that way. He had to find her. But in order to do that, he had to at least be able to function. Unfortunately, he was risking cutting Katie off too soon and putting her through this same torture. But whatever happened, maybe it would give them enough time to find her before she went down too far.

Reaching out, he grabs Rick's wrist and yanks him down close. His eyes blaze. "If you don't give it to me, I'm going to die," he hisses.

Rick swallows hard, his eyes searching his young friend's. "Okay… okay. Hang on."

Jason lets him go, fighting to stay conscious. He can feel his eyes wanting to roll back into his head, but he tries so hard to fight against it. Suddenly there's a prick to his arm. And like a raging river turns into a gentle stream, the emotions evaporate. What was an ocean ten minutes earlier was now a shallow pool… an emotional collection the depth of a normal person.

The pressure is immediately released and Jason is finally able to catch his breath. His body starts to relax and he blinks. The feeling was confusing.

"Jason?" Rick moves around to see his face. "What's going on?"

Jason rolls over onto his back, trying to recover. "Nothing… I feel…" He tries to collect emotions to increase power, but it's like trying to collect air bubbles underwater. "Nothing."

Rick lets out the breath he'd been holding. "It worked?"

"I think so." Jason manages to sit up, and puts a hand to his head. A splitting headache seemed to be the only side affect. "Give me some aspirin or something." His mind races. It felt so strange. He'd been filled with so many raging emotions for so long that having them gone… it was a strange sensation. He was normal again. He couldn't even attempt communication with Katie – there just wasn't the ingredients there anymore. "What… what happens now?"

Rick hands him some aspirin and some water. "Well, what I made up is a temporary solution. It's a bandaid. I don't know how long it will last, but it will wear off. When it does, you'll need another dose to keep it up."

"When you say you don't know how long it will last…"

"I mean it could be five minutes… five hours… five days. I don't know."

Jason slides off the table, wobbling just a little bit, heading for the door.

"Whoa, where you going?"

"Katie was at the park. We have to find her."

"You're not in a condition to go anywhere."

Jason whirls around to glare at Rick. "Katie could be dead! Now I'm going, whether you like it or not."

Seeing Jason leave, Rick grabs the phone and dials the short extension. "Nate? Jason's on his way out. Don't let him leave alone. Something's happened to Katie, but he's in no shape to drive, let alone go out there by himself."

Jason gets to his office, having to take a moment to lean on his desk and catch his breath. He felt weak all over. It was the strangest thing he'd ever felt. Going for his desk drawer, he pulls out his gun, then clips his badge to his belt. Heading out to the main floor, Trooper is on his heels. Jason staggers just a little when the room spins, but he shakes it off, continuing his route.

Yes I am

Standing across from Dani for a moment Dalton thinks about how to answer the question she asked. He new she probley wasnt exspecting one but he felt like there should be one anyways.

"Probley never. This has been going on for so long...we can only hope and keep working twords bring them down once and for all."

They said Quack.

Giving a little laugh Katie comes around the bend as two guys and a woman are coming twords her. Giving a nod and a smile Katie pass them.

"Afternoon."

Continuing to walk Katie just trys to enjoy herself.

"Hey excuse me."

Hearing someone call from behind her Katie stops and turns seeing the woman and two men have stopped. Quirking her head just a little Katie continues to smile not thinking anything.

"Yes can I help you?"

Looking to one side of her where one man stood and than looking to the other the woman gives a smile not letting her own eyes show the reason for stopping Katie.

"Me and my friends here were just wondering, we had seen you once before somewhere else and I though I had seen you at a Jetstream consert before and said you were Katie Pent the body guird but my friend here said I was wrong so, I guess I wanted to settle it and have you tell him u are."

Katie cant help but laugh as she heres the question. She'd never really been asked before about who she was or what she did but for a moment it kind of made her feel good.

"Well your right, I am Katie."

And in a moments time Katie soon dosnt feel good anymore as the two men move around her while the woman still stands in front her smile turning into more of a smerk now.

"Good, we had to make sure you where who we needed first."

In a quick moment both men come up fast behind Katie grabbing her arms behind her back. Doing her best Katie trys to fights them off and struggle as her mind races but it was no use one of the men she could take on but both of them there was no chanse.

"Quick gives her the surem before she can warn anyone do it now."

The larger man yells to the woman.

Panic taking over Katie she trys to push as many emotions as she can in Jason's direction.

JASON...Hel....

But feel a prick to her are and a sharp pain than ran through her arm Katie soon calaps as the larder man throws her over his shoulder everything around her spinning and than going dark feeling almost empty as she liped into the darkend sleep.

Ducks

Dani opens her mouth to argue, but feeling Dalton's hand, she knows that she needed to leave now. Sighing, she stands up, throwing Alec one last look. But there was nothing more to say.

Getting back out into the hall, suddenly it's evident that Dani indeed had been afraid. Though she had let none of it show in front of Alec, only now does her face pale slightly as she leans back against the wall, closing her eyes.

Taking several deep breaths, she looks back to Dalton, the tears glistening in her eyes. "How many more lives will the Agency ruin?" she questions. "How many more times will families be torn apart because of them?"


Jason pauses at his filing cabinet.

Mmm... don't tell me how nice it is. I wish I was there too.

Closing the drawer, he flops back down in his chair.

Say hi to the ducks for me.

Pond

Standing with his arms cross staying close to Dani he just watches the interaction. Staying quiet there was nothing really for him to say other than to just watch and make sure all went well.

Watching Dani he found it intresting that she would care so much for her half brother. He commended her for it. He has always been an only child but he often wondered if he would be the same way or not.

Seeing Alec become agitated and wanting Dani out he knows its probley good to cut this short now before anything could get out of hand. Placing his large hand as lightly as he could on her shoulder Dalton prompts her.

"Come on Dani, its time to go now."

Walking through the park Katie takes in a deep breath. The air felt good in her lungs and it helped clear her mind.

Mmm...I wish you where hear with me its so nice. Saprisingly the park is pretty quiet too. I am gonna take one more trip around the pond and than I will be heading back.

It was so handy being able to talk to Jason this way. She liked it alot, and it had just become normal to her now where once before it was almost alienated.

Family

Alec looks up with little interest as the holding cell door opens. He recognizes Dalton, but had no idea who the young woman was. Still sitting on the floor, he eyes the visitors skeptically.

Dani enters slowly behind Dalton, glancing down at the still, solemn figure. "Hello, Alec."

His eyes narrow suspiciously. "Who are you?"

Dani moves to ease down into the chair. She glances at Dalton for reassurance, then back to the prisoner. "My name is Danielle, though friends call me Dani."

"Guess I'll be calling you Danielle then."

Danie shrugs. "Suit yourself. Though I'd like to think of most of my family as friends."

Now she had Alec's attention. "What do you mean?"

"Who was your father, Alec?"

Alec straightens, bristling a little. "I thought the interrogations were over."

"I'm not interrogating. I'm just asking a few questions."

"Alright. I'll bite." Alec shrugs apathetically. "I didn't know him personally. I was an 'accident' you see." He gives a wry grin. "The guy was married to someone else, and wound up paying off my mom so she'd stay quiet about my arrival. I guess she did. End of story."

Dani cocks her head. "Yet you carry his name, not hers."


Reese folds his arms, watching the monitors. "Turn the volume up," he requests.

Hal nods and does as he's told. Reese continues to watch with interest.

After a moment though, Hal speaks. "You sure you want the girl down there?"

"Why not?"

"I don't know... it's not the most emotionally friendly atmosphere. Alec's a tough case."

"Don't worry... Dani is a Banks."


Alec squints one eye. "I don't know how you know that, or why it matters, but yeah. My mom did it that way so I'd be a stark reminder to him that I was still around."

Dani sighs, feeling a little sorry for him. There was a strange pull on her heart though, knowing they shared the same blood. "Did you ever know anything about him?"

"No, but I don't get why you're asking me all this." Alec's tone grows testy. "Why don't you just tell me what you want?"

"I want to tell you about your father." Dani doesn't give him time to respond. She'd given a lot of thought to what she'd say, and wasn't going to stop now. "He started out a good guy. He had a family... a wife, two daughters and a son. They were pretty happy. But then he started getting in with the wrong kinds of people. He changed... he wasn't such a nice guy anymore. He worked for the same Agency you do, and got into some rough deals. He had several women no one knew about until later. He started drinking and took his frustrations out on his family. While his son had started working for the Agency too, at home, the son protected his sisters from abuse - especially the youngest."

Alec sighs, trying to show he didn't care, even though some things stirred inside of him.

Dani continues. "Your father was misguided, but in the end, he proved there was still some good left. He refused a certain deal with the Agency. Their response was to call in him and his family. He, his wife and oldest daughter were murdered in cold blood, right in front of the son."

A slight surprise flashes in Alec's eyes and Dani nods. "Yes, he died many years ago. His son was recruited to work more heavily in the Agency, and he became a ruthless killer - a bloodthirsty womanizer and alcoholic, even worse than your father."

Alec shows some interest for the first time. "What?"

"You've probably heard of him. He was the Agency's number one assassin."

Alec recoils in defense. "No... no... no, it was just a coincidence that Carson and I had the same name."

"No... that's not true." Dani's voice remains soft and calm. "They lied to you, probably to avoid personal feelings."

"Carson's a traitor," Alec mutters. Though the pangs in his heart increased, he tried to ignore them. "Brother or not, I don't give a rip."

Dani ignores the comment and keeps talking. "Carson was captured by TJY and later realized how much better a life he could have away from the Agency. He's turned his life around and is living quite well."

"Look, what's your point?"

"He and his little sister were the only survivors of the Agency."

"So? Where'd she end up? The gutter?"

"No... she wound up with a loving family who adopted her. She lived in California, later met up with her brother again, and then moved here to Nevada."

Alec heaves a sigh. "Okay...?"

"She later found out that a half-brother existed, and that he'd been sucked into the Agency too. And now caught, he didn't even know that he wasn't alone."


Reese is still watching, his eyes studying Dani's tactics. "Interesting... very interesting.


Alec blinks. He stares at Dani and suddenly he knows the truth. "You."

Dani nods. "Me. I'm your half-sister, Alec."

Alec's mind whirls. He searches Dani's eyes, looks up to Dalton, then back down again, his pulse quickening. Then he stops. "No." He shakes his head. "No... none of this is true. You're just saying it to make me break even more than I already have. I'm not buying it."

"You have to, Alec," Dani emphasizes. "It's the truth. They already have proof through blood samples from you and Carson."

Alec's eyes drift down, his frown creating a type of glare. He didn't know what to think or what to feel. He wouldn't have thought that this kind of information would ever have stirred anything inside of him. But it did... He'd always felt so alone. He'd always figured he simply didn't have family and he'd learned to not care. But this young woman... he had a sister? He could remember as a boy, he'd always wanted siblings. Someone to hang out with... someone to talk to. Now he was finding out he had two. They weren't full siblings, but being half still created a blood bond that no one could deny or break. "So what do you want now?" he asks coolly. "Did you just want to rub all of this in when I'm sitting here helpless or what?"

"No of course not." Dani shakes her head. "I just wanted to meet you... and I wanted you to know. I don't know how long you'll be here or where you'll go after this. But I hope we can talk more... I'd like to see you again... I'd like to get to know my brother."

Alec looks up, gritting his teeth. He glares at Dani, not even knowing how to respond. He didn't like the feeling of vulnerability this evoked. He didn't like her knowing more than he did about the past. He didn't like not being in control. "Go away," he mutters. "Leave me alone."

Though sad, Dani keeps her chin high as she stands again. "I'll see you again. And I'm sure Carson will want to meet you soon too."

"Yeah? Well tell him not to bother. He can buzz off before he even gets this far."

"You can be as stubborn as you want... but that will never remove the fact that you do have family. Think about that one."

Alec scoffs and looks up at Dalton. "Get her out of here," he mutters.

Follow

Turning around and looking at Reese Dalton was a little scepticule of letting Dani go there.

"I really dont think thats a good idea....I.."

Shaking his head Dalton new better than to argue with the boss no matter what he though.

"Alright I will, but I am going to stay in the room with her. I dont trust him alone no matter what kind of camras we have in there."

Turning Dalton almost seems to take out a whole new air as her stands a bit taller and his face becomes just a little bit harder now.

"Ok, follow me."

Moving past Reese Dalton leads Dani down the long hall and two where Alec was. Hesatation for a moment Dalton just stands there before unlocking the door and opening it for Dani before follow in after her.

Approval

Jason pauses his typing, a small grin forming.

Well I doubt Hal would want to clean your brains off the wall, so go take that walk. Take one for me too. I'd come along but Reese has me swamped in paperwork. Lunch sound fantastic. Just let me know when.


Dani looks down, but manages a nod to Dalton. "Alright. I understand. Protocol and all. I just thought..." Glancing back up, she shakes her head. "Never mind." She's about ready to leave, but a new voice interrupts them. None had seen Reese in the doorway, nor did they know how long he'd been there.

"Dalton, you may take her to see Alec. He hasn't caused trouble the last couple days, and Hal has the monitors covered." He nods decisively. "Besides, I'd like to see how he reacts."

"Really?" Dani looks back to Dalton with some hope.

Reese nods again, his glance of approval pointed at Dalton.

Walk

Watching on with Dani Dalton feels a strange feeling makes its way up in him. He felt no remorse for Alec and though he got what he deserved, but his heart went out to Dani as she watched on the screen.

"I'm sorry, I cant. You will need to talk with Reese. I really am sorry if anything was to happen when I did, it would be my job not to mention I would feel horrabl."

Letting out a sigh Katie sits at her desk her head in her hands. Today she felt frustrated it felt like in her work she was hitting wall after wall. She wasnt sure if it was just the day or not.

Giving a frusted grunt Katie stands and takes her jacket from the back of the chair she needed some air before she exploded.

Hey you, I need to go out for a walk before my brain exploded. Work is just getting to me. I wont be long and maybe we can do lunch or something.

Please

Roger West sighs, his shoulders dropping. He didn't know a whole lot more now, though someone had told him that Carson meant no harm. "Thank you... I just... thank you."

Sighing again, he turns around and heads for the building.


Dani can't help the disappointment that crosses her face. She really had wanted to talk to Alec. She didn't know him from anyone, and knew that he was a criminal, but still she had a longing inside of her, just to see him.

"Okay..." She gives Dalton a little nod. "I'd at least like to see him on the camera."

Following him just down the hall to the control room, Hal greets them and makes room for them to see the monitors. He points Dani in the right direction, and she approaches the monitor that shows the holding cell.

Alec is sitting in an almost-bare room. The only furniture is a chair, small table and a cot. The only comfort is a blanket and a pillow. Alec isn't sitting on the chair or cot though. Instead, he's sitting on the hard floor against the wall, his knees pulled up as rests for his arms. He still wasn't even allowed shoes. He was a picture of brokenness, but even on camera, his eyes showed a resentful fire that still burned.

A tear glistens in Dani's eye and she reaches out to touch the monitor. "He reminds me so much of Carson," she murmurs. A little laugh escapes. "I doubted it was true, but after seeing him... wow."

Turning back to Dalton, her eyes beg him. "Isn't there anyway I can talk to him? Just for a minute or two? Please?"

All Info

Turning to the man as she hears him talking Angelica trys her best to smile as she listens. She wasnt really part of this section of the court system but by the look in the mans eyes she could tell he did care and he just wanted to know what was going on.

"I can't tell you much not to mention I am not dealing with this part of the whole thing, but what I can tell you is that Mr. Banks wants nothing more than he daughter to be in a loving, and good environment. He knows that he can not provide for her as a single parent, and he wants what he best for Mackenzie. "

Angelica lets out a long as sigh. This thing had become a whole mess and turning out to be worse than it really had to be. Angelica couldnt help but feel sorry for everyone involved.

"As for the reason I am here, some wrong accusations have been made, and things have been pushed to far. Mackenzie loves her father, and her father loves her and for that reason he knows he cant keep her."

Drawing silent for a moment Angelica just thinks. Maybe deep down inside of Carson even though he didnt say it, that really was his reason because he did love her.

"I'm sorry Mr. West that this has been hard on you and your wife, but I cant tell you anymore. I do with you the best of luck."

Looking at Dani Dalton searches her eyes for a moment. He could see the emotion behind them and new how bad wanted to see one of the only other members of her family that was alive. He old wished her could.

"Well, I can let you take a peek here at the camra that is in his room. As for psycaly going down to see him I cant do that. Its to dangerous and just aganst regulations. I guess you could maybe talk with Reese and see what he says but another more than that my hands are tired. I'm sorry."

Watching Scott as he walks out the door a small tear rolled down Hope's face. Scott was differnt from most pashents she had. Maybe on the inside she had started to like him and look at him as more than just a pashent, whatever it was she felt it now as this very well could be the last time she saw him.

I was wrong

Out in the parking lot it is quiet, but someone spots Angelica standing by her car. They quickly shut their door and go towards her, just a little hesitantly.

"Excuse me..." An attractive, tall, slender man with dark hair and glasses approaches from a parked minivan. He looked to be in his late thirties. "You're that lawyer, aren't you?" He extends his hand in a friendly gesture. "My name is Roger West. I just came to speak with Heather Jones because she won't give me any answers over the phone about what's going on."

It's obvious that he is grasping at straws, taking a risk by approaching a total stranger like this, lest she not really be the lawyer he thought she was. But it also proves his desperation for answers. "My wife and I are trying to adopt Mackenzie Nelson, but Heather told us that her father has come back into the picture and may try to take her. Julie and I just want to know what's going on, but Heather won't say any more than that. Last we heard, Mackenzie had run away."

Roger pauses, his eyes searching Angelica's. "I know you probably can't say much but... well, we've fallen in love with that little girl and we just... we want to make sure everything is okay. We don't want to make trouble if Mackenzie's father is back, but..." He shrugs lamely. "We're in a difficult position and... we can't find answers."


Dani smiles, relieved Dalton had remembered her. Her hand is enveloped in his as she shakes it, and she looks up at him with question. "Um... I hope you can. See... I heard that you were holding an Alec Banks here and... I found out that apparently he's a half brother of mine. I... was hoping to get to see him... maybe talk to him? But I didn't know who to ask, or what protocol was."


Scott's eyes look at the folder on Hope's desk, and he is silent for several moments. Finally glancing back up, he offers Hope a small smile. "Thank you..."

It seemed there was more he wanted to say, but he doesn't. Slowly standing, he takes the folder and tucks it under his arm. Looking down he eyes his dog. "Say goodbye to Hope, Domino."

Domino wiggles her stump of a tail and gives a little bark.

"Alright. Come on." Scott doesn't know what really to say or how to say goodbye, so he opts to just leave things as they are. But getting to the door, he hesitates, then turns around one last time. "Hope..." He looks back to her, pausing a moment. "When I first started coming, I told you that you were a seventeen point one. But... I was wrong."

He gives a little sigh. "I added on the point one because you were alone... because I didn't see a wedding band. But... you're far from alone. As long as you keep helping people like me..." He shakes his head. "...you'll always be surrounded by people who care... people who are grateful for the work you do."

Giving a nod, he turns back around, letting the door fall shut behind him. His walk outside was a slow one.

Goodbye can be Hello

Giving a nod to Mackenzie as she gathers her things up she gives a smile to the child. So young, so brave, her heart was so big for her father she hardly new. It only proved that to childrin family was really what mattered.

"I will let him know for you."

Standing Angelica shuts her brefcase and looks down at the girl one last time.

"Thank you for your help Mackenzie. I am sure the information will prove helpful. Hope to see you again soon and try to stay out of to much trouble."

Tuning Angelica makes her way out of the room passing Heather on her way and giving a nod. No information was offered to her because to Angelica it was not nessasy or her business to know what they talked about. She would see her again soon in court and there everything would unwind with what happend.

Getting out to the parking lot Angelica looks down at her phone seeing she had missed a call. Checking her voice mail she listens closely as she stands by her car. This was a very intresting devlopment indeed. Hangin up again she just stands there for a moment playing a few things though her mind.

Hearing his name Dalton looks up from his work and lets out a long sigh from being intropted. Seeing Dani standing in the doorway his aggravatuon quickly melts away. He remembered who she was from the last time he had seen her. Could could forget her pearcing blue eyes, and long blonde hair.

Standing quickly Dalton takes a few steps twords Dani and exstends his hand to her.

"Miss Banks its so good to see you again. Can i help u with something?'

Though Dalton's voice had a gruf edge to it there was a slight softness there only seen mostly when talking wtih any woman. He helt them with the ut most respect no matter who they were.

Looking back across the desk at Scott today meeting weagh heavy on the minds of both people. Each for there differnt reasons, but all having the same meaning.

Trying to continue to smile Hope holds up Scott's folder before placing it on the edgh of the table.

"Well Scott, I dont think there is anything else I can do for you. You have come such a long way, and have grown so much. I am so proud of you."

And though there was a sadness in her tone she was infact proud of Scott and what he had over come. From the first time he has walked in here till now it was amazing how much of a change there was.

"I kept everything I need for my records, and the rest of this stuff in the folder is for you to take back to Rick so he can have it on hand as well. I am so happy I got to be part of your changing life."

Letting out a sigh Hope new what was to come and it made her sad. Not only was Scott a pashent but along the way he had become a friend. Though knowing that was inapropreate for her line of work and Scott being a pashent Hope had never said anything about it.

"I guess as sad as it may sound its time to let you go, so you can spread your own wings. Though I dont looks at this as good bye, because so many times goodbyes can be hellos."

Last visit?

Mackenzie gives a little sigh, but nods. She didn't believe Angelical a hundred percent that everything would be okay, but shed' said all she could.

Reaching out, she takes the phone, slipping it between her jeans and tucked-in shirt, her jacket hiding it. Angelica's card went into her pocket.

She looks at Angelica again, her eyes pleading. "Tell my dad hi for me?"


Outside in the hall, Heather continues to pace.

Tony pops his head around the corner. "You got a call from a client on line one."

"Take a message."

"But..."

"Take a message!" Heather snaps. "I'm busy."

Tony slinks away.

Heather glares at the empty hall, returning to her angry pacing. She wasn't about to leave her post.


Clint beams, obviously glad that Wendy liked the spot. Settling his arms around her too, he cocks his head. "You know that's my job... to make you happy." A grin forms. "'Cause that makes me happy."

Leaning in, he gives her lips a tender kiss before returning again with a more passionate exchange. He might have been tired... he might have been worried about the future... but he was finding the happiness... he was keeping his love for Wendy alive.


Dani pulls her car into the TJY parking lot and turns off the engine. It felt a little strange being here... and a part of her felt guilty that she hadn't told Carson... but he hadn't seemed interested in this. But she was... she wanted some answers, and maybe just wanted some closure about a few things. She hadn't had to work much after noon today, so she'd taken advantage of the free afternoon.

Wandering inside, she isn't quite sure where to go. Everyone on the main floor looked so busy. She hated to interrupt. She tried to find a familiar face, but wasn't so sure about anyone she saw.

Making it to the hall, she has no idea where she's going, but turns, walking past a couple closed offices. Coming to an open one though, she looks in, again, not wanting to bother anybody. It looked like it was set up for two people, but only one was present. And she did recognize this agent. How could she have forgotten him?

She lifts her hand to knock on the door hesitantly, glancing at the nameplates to refresh her memory. "Hi... Dalton?" She was sure he probably wouldn't remember her at all, but at the moment, he seemed the only one she felt like asking for help.


Scott stands at the window, his hands tucked in his jeans pockets. Domino was at his heels. He'd brought her along today for no other reason than to keep him company as he'd walked here from Mom and Pop's, and so Hope could see her too.

But today was different. He didn't have much to talk about... he seemed to have covered all his feelings and more in the last session. Today felt... empty. He hadn't asked the inevitable, and Hope hadn't said anything yet, but he knew... he knew that he wouldn't have to come anymore after today.

Turning back around, he wanders closer to the desk again, easing down in the familiar chair. Domino hops up in his lap, and he automatically strokes her head.

He looks across the desk at Hope, his eye asking her what came next. He'd been there for fifteen minutes already, hardly having spoken at all.

Happy

Listing to Mackenzie Angelica takes a few notes writing things down that if looked at no one would understand what she wrote. What she said was interesting and she probably could guess who had sent the man to Mackenzie only to be confirmed by Heather's action to what she had threaten her with to keep her silent.

"Dont worry Poco uno, I will do my best to keep your dad safe. He'll be ok that I promise."

Angelica searches the young girls eyes trying to reasure her that things would be ok. She comended Mackenzie for her bravery knowing that must of been on of her stronger trated from her father.

"Thank you for the help. Keep the phone so if you need anything you know who to call ok?"

As Wendy opens her mouth to tell Clint that she really would like to help cleaning up she dosntchanse before Clint is pulling her out of the mess hall. Looking back in as she goes through the door she gives a shrug to the others as if saying she was sorry for leaving them with the work.

Trying to keep up with Clint Wendy cant help but give a laugh.

"Slow down you I am pregnite here I cant quiet move as fast as you right now."

Continuing to follow him Wendy stays close as they come to the fence. Leaning her hands on it just a little she lets it saport her weaght. Following Clint's finger out across the field to the oak tree a smile spreads across Wendy's face as his words hit her ears.

Leaning back aganst Clint her smile spreads even more.

"Oh Clint, that would be perfect. I cant already picture it in my head."

Turning around Wendy puts her arms around Clint's neck through she cant get to close are her stomach stuck out more now that it got in the way but she did the best she could.

"Thank you Clint, for making me so happy."

Dirt

Mackenzie looks down, then glances up towards the door where she knew Heather was. She bites her lip and fingers the cell phone.

Finally she sets the phone in the center of the table and leans forward, resting her chin on her arms. "My dad didn't kidnap me," she mumbles softly. "But... I don't know who did."

Her eyes glance towards the door again, then back to the table. "I snuck out of the dorm before breakfast... I do that sometimes. And... I went for a walk. A man met me by the road. He said he knew my dad, even said his name, then... said he could take me to him."

Mackenzie shrugs. "I know I shouldn't have gone with a stranger but... I wanted to see my dad again. So... we went to the airport and flew to Nevada. He said his name was Smith but... I guess that might not have been his name, huh?"

She swallows and fiddles with Angelica's business card. "He took me to that restaurant where my dad works, and he dropped me off. And... that was it. I waited for my dad, and then I stayed with him there the rest of the day. For supper he made pizza..."

She smiles a little. "He's a good cook. And then... his girlfriend, Misty, came and we went to his apartment. I didn't get to meet my aunt until morning though because I went to bed. And then... at the restaurant... the police came."

Looking up, she studies Angelica's face. "When I came back, Heather.... she... " She hesitates again. "She said that if I told anyone what really happened... that she would hurt my dad."

A tear forms in Mackenzie's eye. "I didn't want to get him in trouble... I just... I just wanted to see him... that's all."


As soon as Scott leaves Mom and Pop's, Carson catches up on the waiting orders in the kitchens, then goes out in the hallway to phone Angelica's cell. Getting her voicemail, he wonders if she's talking with Mackenzie or Heather right now.

"Lockheart, it's Carson. I got some information on Heather. No, don't worry, I didn't dig it up myself. Look, she's got a personal agenda here we can use. Apparently when she was about ten years old, her parents divorced. It was messy and she got caught in the crossfire of a brutal custody battle. Her mom finally got her, but when she was eleven, her dad picked her up from school. Would have been a simple case of kidnapping, but he was abusive. By the time it was all straightened out, she had to have six months of child counseling. She's got a personal grudge against men in general, proved by male teachers she's gotten in trouble, boyfriends her mother has had that she's complained about, etcetera. She's never allowed children under her care to spend time with single fathers - she'll only allow interaction with married couples who appear to be happy and stable."

Carson paces up and down the hall, pausing to rub a hand over his face. "It's only speculation, but I think that's why she's got it out for me. She's got a couple who wants to adopt Mackenzie - apparently a couple she approves of. Now she wants to make me look dirty so there's no way I can get to the kid. Noble thoughts there, but obviously she went too far. Anyway... that's what I've got so far. Talk to you soon. Bye."


"Carson, what did you do with my spare keys?" Dani mumbles to herself, looking for the set of keys that her brother had borrowed the night before. "I'm gonna be late!" She'd come back home from work to grab something for lunch, but had locked her keys in the car. Now not only feeling utterly stupid, she couldn't find the other set.

Searching the hall closet, she rummages through Carson's jacket pockets. Reaching into one, she stops, her fingers hitting something unfamiliar. Frowning, she pulls the object out. Disappointment washes over her. There were much worse things, for sure, but Carson... She sighs and stuffs the pack of cigarettes back into the jacket. She'd talk to him about it later.


Lunch was just getting over. The mess hall seemed a bit quiet. But it had during the last few days - ever since Jeff hadn't returned. Several people had gone back to work already, leaving just a few at the tables. Clint was one of them, though he rises now, ready to get back out to the shop.

Wiping his hands on a napkin, he sees Wendy nearby, helping clean up. He just watches her for a moment, knowing that it was uncomfortable for her to be on her feet. A nudge in the ribs makes him turn and look at his dad.

Jim gives him a small smile. "Never get tired of looking at her, do you?"

Clint returns the smile. "No. How'd you know?"

Jim gestures to the kitchen where Becky is. "You tell me."

Clint lets out a soft chuckle. "Yeah... well I gotta talk to the love of my life right now. See you later."

"Alright."

Clint rises from his chair and wanders over to where Wendy is, slipping an arm around her shoulder. "Hey, Beautiful." He gives her cheek a kiss. "Before I get back to work, wanna take a little walk?" Not letting her even have a chance to say no, he takes her hand, his eyes sparkling. "Come on. Kitchen work can wait."

Getting outside and down the steps, he sets off across the ranch layout, past the bunkhouses and into the east pasture. Grinning, he continues to pull Wendy along with him, not stopping to talk. Finally, he halts at a fence and gestures to the small grassy plot between two pastures, where the old oak tree stood. It was close to the ranchyard that you could see everything, but far enough away that it was out of the daily hustle and bustle.

Leaning on the fence, he gestures to the small area. “I talked to Mick,” he reveals. “…and the bank. And…”

Clint pauses and gives Wendy a sidelong glance. Slipping behind her and slinging his arms over her shoulders, he points so she can follow the line of his finger to the space next to the oak tree. “…how would you like a little log cabin, right there… Just for us?”

Before

Hearing Mackenzie's voice Angelica turns around and comes back to the table sitting down. Searching the girls face. Looking deeper Angelica could see the look behind her her eyes the fear could be seen.

"There is no garinte without you I will be able to help him. Me and the people I work for, that you dad once worked for are going to try out best to keep him safe and out of jail but without you there is no promise at all that, that will happen."

Angelica only hoped she could get through to the girl. Every fiber of her wanted to help, and wanted to keep everyone safe. She new this was hard on Mackenzie and couldnt blame her for her silence.

"I do need your help, Poco uno. But when your ready thats why I gave you the phone and the card so if you feel better telling me some other time before the hearing."

Time

Mackenzie stares at the card and the phone, but doesn't respond. She doesn't even look up as Angelica starts to leave. But even if it didn't look like she was listening, she was.

Just as Angelica gets to the door, Mackenzie looks up. "Miss Lockheart..." Her eyes drift down once more and she fingers the phone. "Can't.... can't you keep my dad out of trouble without me?"


Heather paces out in the hallway, looking at her watch for the umpteenth time and sighs. She thought she'd heard Angelica approaching, but no such luck. What was taking so long?

Poco Uno

Angelica lets out a long sigh and puts her pad back into her brefcase. Hurt that turned to anger was what replaces the fear that was inside Mackenzie and how it hurt for Angelica to see that. She had been a child once who had grown cold over time and he new it was hard.

"No sweet heart I cant, and if you dont talk to me before this court date than your dad will go to jail for a very long time, and it will make many people sad including yourself because you could of stoped it."

Taking a business card from her brefcase and a small phone out Angelica had been prepared for this. Pushing them twords Mackenzie a smile still once her face.

"Hide these inside your shirt and Heather wont know you have them. If you change you mind or need help call me any time."

Shutting her brefcase and standing Angelica takes one more glance at Mackenzie.

"Dont let that hurt and anger stay around for to long or you will end up turning cold. Your to young Poco uno, to have a life like that."

Heading away from Mackenzie Angelica slowly makes her way to the doors she had come in.

Without me

Mackenzie's eyes shoot up to meet Angelica's. Though the gentle reprimand was hardly that, tears form. But before they spill over, Mackenzie wills them not to.

After a moment of silence, she pushes her chair back and puts a foot up to rest against the table, her arms folded in defiance. "I don't want to talk anymore," she states flatly. The fear was gone, leaving only a strange anger that was for some reason aimed at Angelica now. "I don't want to talk about what happened. I just want to stay here and forget about it. You can help my dad without me."

I promise

Angelica write a few things down before looking up at Mackenzie again and quirks her eyebrow once more. Turning slighting she looks to the door were she new Heather was on the otherside before looking back at the small girl.

"Sounds to me like you were reading that response off a card."

Angelica thinks for a moment more before leaning on the table.

"You might be able to trick many Mackenzie but I am one you cant. I've been trained to see through lies. You couldn't have seen your dad pay this man when he dropped you off because your dad wasn't at work was he? From what he said, and what whiness I have say your dad was at the hospital at this the time you showed up."

Cocking her head a litle Angelica moves to catch Mackenzie's eye.

"Ms. Jones told you to tell me that didnt she? Mackenzie, I am your friend here you dont need to lie to me. I want to help keep you safe if I have to, but I need you to tell me the truth. If your scaired something will happen to you if you do tell me, I promise no one will know till the court date I promise."

The story

Mackenzie mulls over Angelia's words, but her eyes stay down. It's several more moments before she finally speaks again.

"I was walking out by the road.... some guy came and picked me up. He said my dad had sent him. So... I went with him. He took me to the airport and then we went to Nevada. Then he took me to my dad. I think I saw my dad pay him. Then he left."

Mackenzie pauses, still unwilling to look up. "I had to stay, so I did. My dad took me home, but the next morning, the police came, so I could come back here where I was safe again."

She shrugs. "That's all."

Remember

Squinting her eyes just a little bit Angelica can sence a bit of hesatation in the child and maybe there was something else there as the child looks down at the table a sign that confermed the small fib that could be seen in her voice.

"You need to remember Mackenzie, if you dont something bad could happen to a very good man. To your father who is innocnt. If you dad gets put in jail it might be a very long time before you see him again if ever."

Angelica own eyes search Mackenzie down cast face. She cant help but feel maybe there was some other influance here.

"Take you time Mackenzie and try to remember. This if for you dad. You dont want him to get locked away right?"

Memory

Mackenzie remains quiet as Angelica speaks, taking in the words. A big of confusion flashes through her eyes, but not enough to make her ask about anything she didn't understand.

Asked to repeat the events with Carson, it's the first time Mackenzie looks down. "I... wanted to see him again. But... but I don't remember what happened. I was tired and... and so.... I don't remember."

Beginning

Giving a nod to Mackenzie Angelica continues to smile knowing this was probley hard for the small girl. Going through something like this was hard for anyone non the less a child.

"Well first I want to tell you that I'd like to help you dad as much as I can. That is why I am here because I know he is a good man who is trying to stay on the path of good."

Angelica continues to watch the child as she talked. She wanted to reasure her she was here for good reason and ment no harm.

"Its only me and you here and no one else will hear what we talk about. I need you to be completely honest with me if we are going to help you dad ok?"

Rumaging around in her briefcase for a moment Angelica takes out a pad of paper and a pen jotting something down before looking up at Mackenzie again.

"So we should start at the beginning, Can you tell me what happend the day you went to your dads work? How did you get here, who braught you...any anything alse you can tell me about that day."

...

Heather's eyes turn to a glare only after the door has been shut. She folds her arms across her chest and paces the hall, unwilling to leave.

Inside, Mackenzie's eyes never leave Angelica. Her stare is inquisitive, but she didn't act surprised that this lawyer was here now.

At the question, she nods. "Yes... I know who you are." Her legs swing under the table, the only sign that she might be nervous. "I don't have any questions."

She continues to stare into Angelica's eyes, waiting for the questions to come.

Questions

Returning Heather's handshake Angelica gives a nod eyeing her for a moment. The lady now that stood infront of her certinly didnt match the voice that had been over the phone.

"When time is limited your right I dont wast time."

Angelica keeps her talk with Heather short, and not giving much info about really anything. It was not Heather she had come to talk to.

Sighing quickly she was happy that, that had not been a hassle but this all seemed to easy and wondered where the snag would come into play.

Entering the room Anglice gives a smile to Mackenzie and a slight nod. There was no doubt that this child was Carson's. She had his eyes, she had his blonde hair, she looked just like him.

Angelica's eyes follow Mackenzie's and Heather's interaction finding it a bit strange how they were to eachother but soaking it all in anyways. Finally as Heather leaves Angelica just watches as she leaves the room turning and following her. Removing the object the held the door open Angelica smiles as she states.

"I require privesy, and quiet with the child. You can stand outside the door but for lawer matters this door will be shut. Surly someone like you Ms. Jones would know and understand than."

Shutting the door Angelica goes back to the table and sits down across from Mackenzie still giving she soft smile. Not saying anything right away she just studys the girl for a moment before finally talking.

"Mackenzie, I am guessing Ms. Jones told you why I am here? I'm representng your father. In other words he asked for me help to try and clear his name from the charges of kidnapping you."

Angelica draws silent again for a moment just letting what she said for a moment to sink in and if Mackenzie wanted to throw in some of her own questions she could. By looking at her Angelica new she was a smart girl there was much intelagince in her eyes.

"If I can I'd like to ask you a few questions, and if you like you can ask me some as well. Is that ok?"

History

The woman behind the reception desk, eyes Angelica, then the court order. She takes the paper to examine it more closely, making sure it was legit, then nods. "Thank you, Miss Lockheart. Please wait for just a moment."

Turning, she picks up the phone. "Heather? The lawyer is here with a court order to see Mackenzie. Yes. Okay."

Hanging up, she turns back to Angelica with a small smile. "Miss Jones will be right with you."

And she was. Less than a minute later, Heather comes down the hall, very business-like, but wearing a gentle smile today. One would have thought she was very peaceable. She extends her hand to Angelica. "Lockheart, I presume. You don't give up easily, do you?"

She locks eyes with Angelica for a moment, but finally turns back towards the hall. "I didn't think you were made of empty threats. Please, follow me. I've already brought Mackenzie for you."

Down the hall, they pass several offices, then come to two double-doors that lead to a cheery lunch room. There were many tables and chairs, though right now, the children were not in sight. Except for one.

Mackenzie sits at one of the tables, her feet dangling, when most kids her age could touch the floor. Her elbows rested on the table, and she looks up quickly as the two women approach. She doesn't stand, but eyes Angelica skeptically, her eyes narrowing slightly.

Heather proceeds with introductions. "Mackenzie, this is Miss Lockheart. She just wants to talk with you for a couple minutes, then afterward, I'll take you to meet up with the others at the museum, okay?"

Mackenzie just shrugs.

Heather sighs and almost rolls her eyes. She knew better than to stay. She knew Lockheart would want to speak with the child alone. But no doors would be closed. She would be right outside. She nods to Angelica. "Please call if you need anything. I'll be just outside the door."

Mackenzie's eyes follow Heather until she's out of sight, then bounce back to stare at Angelica, but she still remains silent.


Seeing Charlotte approaching the cell, Bret and Landon are both on their feet. Bret absorbs Charlotte's words, remaining sober for the moment. As the officer lets him out and Charlotte takes him in, he doesn't respond yet, but returns the kiss, pulling her in close.

Landon isn't embarrassed to watch, and a smile forms on his lips. "Hey, can you two wait to do that later? I want to get out of here."

Bret ignores his friend and doesn't let Charlotte get away with just a light kiss. He was making up for worrying her. Finally pulling away, he puts his hands up to cradle her face. "Sorry," he apologizes.

His eyes twinkle as his laughter is suppressed. "I'da taken you along... but there wasn't enough room."

The officer overhears and rolls his eyes. "You better not take anybody along," he warns. "Going a hundred and ten down Baker street is not a healthy past time. Now get out of here."

Bret slings an arm around Charlotte's shoulder to guide her back outside, Landon close behind. Only when they're outside do they stop again. Bret looks at his wife a bit sheepishly. "We really weren't starting out to race... honest."

"He's right," Landon nods his head emphatically. "We were just moving the cars and... well..."

"He started it." Bret thumbs towards Landon.

"What?! I did not! It was you who made the first move."

"Uh-uh. You passed me first."

"Only cuz you were starting to speed first."

"Did not."

"Did too!"

"I..." Bret stops, choking on a laugh. "Okay... maybe it was my fault."

Landon smirks, holding in his own laughter. "Yes, it was. I wouldn't push my luck though. With your history, I'd..."

"Naw, naw..." Bret moves behind Charlotte to push her forward while putting his hands over her ears. "Let's not bring up the past, shall we?"

Landon quirks an eyebrow. "Ahh, the little missus doesn't know about the record, eh?"

"Landon!"

"Sorry!" Landon laughs and shakes his head, while glancing to Charlotte. "I'll pay you guys back. Sorry to make you come down here this morning."

Auth

Putting the phone down Charlotte lets out a long sigh as a bit of fear races through her. Bret was in Jail but why? The officer on the phone wouldnt tell her anything other than Bret was here with Landon, and they both had a bail.Throwing her shoes on and grabbing her jacket Charlotte heads out the door with hast.

Within moment Charlotte is parked and inside the station talking with the officer. Giving a shake of her head she pulls out her check book. Of all the things these two could of done it was this.

Ambaling slowly over the cell that held her husband and his friend. Looking through the bars for a moment Charlotte's anger seems to subside just a little even though it looked as though the two wernt sorry at all. It just want not possable to be mad with Bret. A smile forming on her face Charlotte smiles and shakes her head.

"You know your lucky I love you Bret or you would be in big trouble for doing something like this and not taking me with you."

Letting out a sigh she folds her arms under her chest.

"And do you know why you didnt take me? Because you would say its to dangerous. If its to dangerous for me, than it is for you to as well. I dont want to be a widow yet. I love you to much."

Charlotte's smile is soft as she waits for the officer to open the jail cell up. Before moving out of the way as the guys step out. Locking her fingers with husbands Charlotte leans in and gives him a kiss. She had been worryed, she had been upset but now it seemed to melt away.

Standing outside of the tall building Angelica looks at the sign and than the address she had again making sure this was the right place.

Holding her brefcase she let out a long breath of air. She had everything she needed now all she hoped for was the coroperation from Heather so she didnt have to take it a step more.

Walking inside and going to the fround counter Angelica holds her head high with a smile on her face. Today she had more of a business woman air than her normal, today she was perfeshinel.

Smiling at the person at the desk Angelica takes the perfeshinal tone yet gentil for the moment.

"My name is Angelica Lockheart and I am here to speak with Mackenzie Nelson please."

Angelica holds up the court order for the person behind the counter to see to show she did in fact have autharasation.

Jail time

Scott greets Domino as he gets in the house, picking her up to give her some loving. Cuddling her close, he turns and parts the horizontal blinds with a finger, just far enough to see Hope's car drive away. Thinking for just a moment, he kisses Domino's head before setting her down. "Come on, I'll let you outside." On the way to the back door, he looks up at the security camera and waves. He knew Hal was on the other end. Soon... soon he would feel comfortable without that security.


The morning dawns gray. Storm clouds were on the horizon. The warm, humid air felt stale, and a breeze blew chilly in stark contrast. But no matter the forecast of rain, the world had to move on...


Carson busies himself with preparations in the kitchen. Aerith would be there any minute, but he'd already been there for an hour. He'd hardly slept at all the night before, but unable to keep his eyes closed any longer, he'd gotten up anyway. His mind was still reeling from everything going on. Mackenzie. Heather. Alec. The restaurant. The peace he wanted just wasn't coming, and the stress was just building higher and higher. Keeping busy was the only thing he wanted to do right now.


Scott's fingers click along the keyboard, his eyes scanning the information that was coming up. Thought Dalton was only feet away, Scott didn't care... no one was looking over his shoulder to tell him that he wasn't doing TJY work. Not to mention, he'd just hacked through several barriers. But it had been worth it. He picks up the phone.


Carson sets a pan down and wipes his hands on a towel before reaching for his phone on his belt. "Yeah, hello?"

"Carson? It's Scott."

"Hey. What's up?"

"Found some stuff you might want to see."

"About the social services in Arizona?"

"About Miss Jones herself."

Carson quirks an eyebrow. "Think you could manage to bring it down to the restaurant sometime today?"

"Um... yeah... sure. I gotta go downtown today anyway."

"Great. Thanks a million."

"Yeah, sure." Scott hangs up the phone and continues to look at the computer screen.


Bret hangs on the jail cell bars, his head cocked toward the hall. He could just hear the officer making the phone call, asking Charlotte to come pick him up. He groans and sinks down on the hard bench. And elbow from Landon though, creates a grin on his face before both of them are laughing again.

"You're gonna have heck to pay you know that," Landon chides, wiping his eyes as laughter still comes.

"Yeah, yeah." Bret stifles another laugh. "I'm sure she'll forgive me."

"You maybe, but what about Kirk?"

"Now him we might have to work on."

"We?"

"Well I certainly wasn't driving two cars!"

"But it was your idea!"

Bret shoots Landon a look, but both crack up again. It was only mid-morning, but both had been at the track two hours earlier. And then... the bright idea had turned into something neither had bargained for. But neither would say they hadn't been having fun, despite their position now.

"Maybe she won't even come." Landon's eyes widen. "I don't have anybody to call."

"She'll come." Bret looks at his watch. "First off, she won't know why I'm here, and second, she starts work again today, but not until the afternoon. So we're good."

Landon eyes him skeptically. "Alright. If you say so."

His statement wasn't even funny, but both men start laughing all over again.


"I told you to put her on the bus for that fieldtrip with the other kids!"

"I couldn't find her!"

"That's the way she does it, you know that!" Heather sets her hands on her hips, glaring at Tony. "You're an idiot."

"Look, it's not my fault," Tony defends. "Besides, you said it wouldn't matter if that lawyer saw Mackenzie anyway."

"That was a last resort."

"Well you realize she's going to show up any time."

"I know, Tony, I know!" Heather aims for her door. "Tell Patricia to bring Mackenzie to the dining room. There's something I need to tell her."

For a moment

Smiling back at Scott it softens just a little. She could of guessed the question that layed on his heart as it was written in his eyes. Hope herself had wondered if many tomarrow would be there last meeting.

Though she was happy to be able to say Scott could go at the same time it made her a bit sad. She enjoyed Scott's company, and enjoyed talking with him. Something was differnt about him that Hope couldnt put her finger on as silly as it sounded.

"I'll see you tomarrow. Thank you for letting me join you tonight."

Watching Scott get out of the car Hope continues to watch till her gets into the house. Letting her eyes linger on the closed door for a moment Hope shakes her had. For a moment a though passed through her mind as a slightly bigger smile formed. But as quick as it came it went again and Hope was on her way home.

Unvoiced questions

Kyle catches the slightly odd but very brief tone in Alice's voice, and wonders again about it. This wasn't the first time he'd heard it. While Alice had very quickly become a good friend, he really didn't know her background at all. He hadn't thought much of it up until recently. But he had decided not to pry... the time just hadn't been right yet.

He laughs and accepts the treats. He holds up his Mountain Dew can to toast. "To sugar highs!" Downing a mouthful, a belch erupts, but he doesn't even miss a beat. "Wooee, that sugar's got some kick!"


Jason's jaw drops as he looks at Katie across the table.

You sneak, it was so you!

Grabbing a straw no one had used yet, he fires right back, but the wrapper goes whizzing past Katie's head, hitting the passing waiter instead.

Jason quickly drops his straw and looks around, not to be found as the guilty one. But the laughter being held in forms tears in his eyes.

Oops.

Looking back at Katie, Jason lets his enjoyment and humor flow as freely as it wanted to. It had been a long time since they'd laughed like this, and it felt good.


Scott turns quickly, almost startled by Hope speaking to him. It takes him just a moment to register what she was saying. "Oh, um..." He thinks, glancing down to Katie. She was his ride home. But the night was far from over for her and some of the others. He didn't want to make her leave early... but he really didn't want to stay either. "I did, but... if you don't mind, that would be great."

Rising with Hope, Scott takes a few steps to Katie, quietly thanking her and letting her know that she wouldn't have to worry about taking him home.

Heading out of the restaurant, the refreshing night air is welcomed. Scott settles into the passenger side of Hope's car, grateful for the escape route she'd given him. The ride is quiet. Anything needing to be said seemed to have already been voiced. It doesn't take long to get to Scott's house.

Parked alongside the street, the night has grown dark. A bright moon is out, casting its light shimmering down to cradle everything in a soft glow.

Scott unbuckles his seatbelt and rests his hand on the door handle, but stops and turns back to Hope. He opens his mouth to say something, but suddenly catches himself. What was he thinking? Inwardly, he kicks himself. The question would go unspoken. He changes subjects instead.

"I'm... supposed to come see you tomorrow..." He pauses, unsure just what he's asking. "After that... I mean..." He'd improved so much lately. He knew that the time was drawing close that he wouldn't need counseling sessions anymore. Would tomorrow be the last time he'd see Hope?

Scott stops and shakes his head, dropping the whole thing. "Goodnight, Hope. Thank you for the ride."

Ride

Alice cant help but give a small chuckle as her eyes give a small sparkle.

"Now why would I want to go home to an empty apartment, and old memories larking around? Getting out is nice, and was well needed. It's helped me more than you know, so yes I think I will be sticking it out till the end."

Though maybe Alice's curent statment could be taken as a little sad there was no sadness in her voice, and the smile still remained on her face. It wasnt hard to tell Alice had her own problems she did a good job at not letting them get her down.

"You know its not even day I can find someone to keep up there energy like me. So its nice to have someone who is rip roaring ready to go when I am."

Reaching into the bag that was at her feet Alice pulls out a few twinkies and two cans of Moutain Dew. Haning one of each to Kyle.

"Suger High?"

Sitting aaround the table Katie's laugher rings out through the restront not caring how loud she was being and who hurd her. The night was ment for laughter and fun The Pizza Box could deal with it for one night.

Grabbing another straw Katie rips the end and brings it to her mouth taking aim. Giving a strong huf she blows sending the wrapper across the table at Jason and than quickly drapping the straw to make it look like she did nothing.

It wasnt me honest!

Enjoying the laughter and the pizza Hope again had a nice time. This seemed like a fun bunch of people and she was happyScott had friends like them. In there company she had the feeling there was never a dull moment.

Looking down at her watch Hope takes note that it was in fact getting late. Placing her napkin on her plate she turns to Scott for a moment. She was sure he has a way home but she wanted to make she would be ok.

"I think I am going to head home its getting late. Did you already have a ride home? I am going that way."