A chance?

Scott obeys the promptings, and manages to get back to the bed, easing down and closing his eyes, utterly exhausted. Even so, he doesn't like Rick's poking and prodding, and winds up resisting the IV.

Rick sighs, having everything in hand. "Scott, come on."

"I don't need it," Scott mumbles. He felt bad enough the way it was, not being able to cope. He felt even weaker, needing something like this.

Rick leans down and waits until Scott opens his eye to look at him. "Did you eat anything all day yesterday?"

Scott thinks. It was hard to remember. He shrugs.

"Did you drink anything?"

He shrugs again.

"And you just threw up anything you had left, and more. If you're not going to take care of yourself, then someone has to. Now stop giving me a hard time."

Scott finally just closes his eye again and lets Rick stick his arm. He winces just a little. Rolling back over onto his side, he hasn't forgotten what Hope said earlier. Though it had been several minutes, he picks up where she'd left off, mumbling his response. "Sure... if I'm not behind bars."


Hunter lifts an eyebrow in surprise and speaks before thinking. "Kyle's your best friend and you haven't told him this?" He was even more surprised that if that were true, Alice has confided in him.

He stops and shakes his head. "Sorry. I can see it's been difficult... can't say I woulda done differently."

Slipping his hand back into his pocket again, he thinks for just a moment. "He sees you as a sister, huh?" He shrugs. "Maybe I really did read him wrong."

Turning his head back to Alice, his warm smile returns. "Oh, Alice... it's not a question of whether or not you know how to play the game. It's whether or not you want to. But you're the only one who knows if you're ready. Moving on can be hard... but something tells me you're strong enough to do it."

For a long moment, he just studies her, watching the moonlight dance in and out of her gaze. "You have beautiful eyes," he whispers. He knew Alice didn't know if she could really move on or not... he knew she was struggling with the feelings of the past. But he could see the longing in her eyes. He could see that she was missing what she once had... affection... partnership... a relationship deeper than friends... someone to lean on... someone to share everything with... ultimately, love.

A part of his logic warned him not to step too closely, but he had to know if his attentions would be accepted or turned away. His voice is still kept low and quiet. Unassuming and not pushy in the least. It was only a tone full of care for how she felt, and a simple request for his own peace of mind.

"If I don't have a chance, just tell me now before I get too far, and I'll back off." He continues to search her eyes. "But if there's any glimmer of hope... I won't give up." His small grin returns. "It's not my nature."


Ty continues to struggle, but is far from a match for Carson. Getting shoved towards the table, he runs into a chair, then whirls around to glare at both me. "What is this about?!"

"I think you know." Carson tone is stern, his stare an icy one. "Sit down."

"I don't want to."

"I said sit!" Carson gives him a hefty push, forcing him down into the chair.

"What is with you two?! I didn't do anything!"

Carson stands on the other side of the table, taking up position beside Nate. "Apparently, you did." He points to a folder that he'd had waiting in here. "Who did you let into the building, Ty?"

Ty visibly recoils, now realizing what Nate and Carson wanted. "I... I don't know what you're talking about."

"You're lying!" Carson throws his arms in the air. "I don't get it, Ty! You've been fine, as far as I know, up until this point!" His eyes were bloodshot, proving that his exhaustion wasn't helping his stress level any. "Now tell me who you let into TJY yesterday."

"I didn't let anyone in!"

"You did too! We have proof!" Carson picks up the folder and slaps it back down again. Still standing, he look down at the younger man. "Why did you use Katie's security code?"

Something flickers in Ty's eyes. "Katie's?"

"Quit playing games." Carson rolls his eyes. "Don't play stupid. Did you think we wouldn't be able to figure it out if you used her code or what?"

"I... I didn't know I used her code."

"So you admit you opened the door."

"I..." Ty clamps his mouth shut again, his eyes falling.

Carson slams his fist on the table. "Talk to us, Ty! I'm tired and I'm cranky, and you do not want to make me mad at this point."

Ty looks back up, glancing between Carson and Nate. "I honestly didn't know I used Katie's code."

"Well what did you think you were using?"

"I don't know."

Carson growls and turns around to pace, trying to keep his temper down. "Okay. Just tell me how you opened the door then."

Ty licks his dry lips. "Well, I... I figured out the key pattern."

"The what?"

"The pattern. See, I've got my own security code, and I know what Hal's is. I figured out the mathematical equation for the numbers that would exist between his code and mine, based on the number sequence. I could go a little further either direction too, but eventually, I'd run out because there's only so many people working here."

Carson blinks. He looks to Nate, totally baffled. "You mean to tell me that there's a pattern with the codes?"

"Sure." Ty shrugs. "There's always a pattern somewhere if you look hard enough."

Carson rubs his forehead, trying to straighten all of this out. "Ty, this is impossible."

"No it's not." Ty leans forward, apparently knowing what he was talking about. "I asked Susanne how many people had been hired between Hal and myself. I took Hal's number and worked with it until I had as many increments as there were agents before I reached my own number. See, each time an agent gains a new security code, the computer generates it. It adds three to the second number, subtracts two from the fifth, divides by the number of..."

"Alright, alright!" Carson holds up his hand. "I believe you. Good grief. How long did it take you to figure that out?"

Ty shrugs again. "I don't know. Couple days?"

"And you're just a janitor?" Carson rolls his eyes. "Never mind. So you figured you'd just use someone else's code, not caring whose it was. Now... who did you let in?"

Ty's hesitance returns. "I... I don't know his name."

"Don't give me that."

"It's true! I don't know his name. He just came to me and..."

"When?"

"A while ago. Right after Scott came back. He told me that Scott was a traitor, but they couldn't prove it."

"They? Who is they?"

Ty looks down again.

"Talk to me, Ty!"

"Austin."

"Of all the..." Carson bites his tongue. "That man has caused more trouble than anyone I know, and he still claims to be on our side." He shakes his head. "So he was the guy with Austin when Scott was interrogated right after he was brought back?"

Ty nods. "I think so."

"Go on."

"Well, he stopped me, and said Scott was a traitor. He said he knew it because he had a signed agreement between him and the Agency, saying that he would work for them for a hundred thousand dollars a year. All he needed was another layer of proof, like if Scott talked or something."

"So when I started finding out he had information, you called this guy."

"Yeah." Ty's shoulders droop. "I didn't know he was going to beat on Scott... honest, I didn't."

"Well he did," Carson retorts harshly. "You said this guy had a signed agreement? Did he show it to you?"

Ty nods. "Why else would I have believed him? I didn't think Scott would be a traitor, but he showed me the paper, so I had to believe it."

Carson gives Nate a sidelong glance before reaching for his folder. He finds a piece of paper with a lot of text on it. He holds the folder right so Ty can't see him taking a pen scribbling something at the bottom. Shutting the folder, he holds up the paper. "The Agency sometimes collects agents signatures for various reasons. I was given this just a bit ago as evidence." His tone indicates that whatever it was, agreed with what Ty was talking about. "It's just a copy, but is this what you were shown?"

Ty squints as Carson flips the page over. There were a lot of words. A signature was at the bottom. He glances up to Carson's eyes, then to Nate's to judge whether or not it was safe to agree. He took the chance. "Yeah... yeah, that's it." He nods with surety.

Carson shakes his head slowly and puts the paper back down. "Ty... I just showed you a printout that Sapphire gave me on your activity during the last day. I just made that signature myself."

Ty's face pales. "That wasn't fair! You tricked me!"

"And you think I'm the only one?"

Ty sinks further down in his seat, his head lowering to a pitiful state. "The agreement wasn't real, was it?"

"What do you think?"

Ty manages to lift is eyes a little. "I... I don't know."

"Whoever it was knew you couldn't read, Ty. The only reason the Agency would ever want a signed paper would just be so they could verify their own agents activity if they double-crossed them. They aren't stupid enough to have agreements that say the agents will work for them."

Ty couldn't feel any lower. "You mean... it was all a trick?"

"I'm afraid so."

"And I was stupid enough to fall for it."

"Pretty much." Carson picks up his folder. "You'll probably be placed on suspension for overriding security codes and for letting someone inside while we were in lockdown. As far as your own conscience, you'll have to deal with that yourself. We still haven't figure out if Scott is really a traitor or not - but either way, you didn't make the right move." He looks to Nate. "Unless you think we nee more, I believe we're done here."

Ty stares down at the table, hating himself. The guy had been wanting to protect TJY, he'd said... just wanted to talk to Scott to prevent him from doing damage... just wanted to keep security tight and ensure safety... And Ty had been so gullible. Whether Scott was guilty or not, it was Ty's fault that he'd been beaten to a pulp, and that wasn't a good feeling.


Jason plants his feet on the ground, but stays seated on his motorcycle. His eyes roam the dark building. A lit window proved someone was there. Strange.

He takes off his helmet and runs a hand through his hair. It was late. He was surprised to see someone else was here at all. He was surprised he was here. But something had led him... something had pushed him.

Finally dismounting, Jason pulls off his keys. After locking his helmet to his bike, he wanders towards the double doors. Taking a glance over his shoulder, he feels as though he's being watched. But it wasn't the feeling of danger. Though unable to see anyone on the dark street, his sixth sense kicks in, and he thinks he knows. For now, he lets it remain as such. Hesitating, he finally turns back around tests the handle on the door. It was open. Even if someone was here this late, it was still odd that the door would be unlocked. But at the moment, he wouldn't question it.

Con watches as Jason parks and heads to the building. He was hidden from view in the alleyway down the street. But when he sees Jason turn around, he can't help a small smile. Jason had radar like a watchdog. "Yeah, Hotshot, I'm here."

Like a Sister

Looking at Rick and giving a small nod Hope keeps her fingers locked with Scott's. For a moment a strange feeling seemed to pass through her veins but was gone before she could grab hold. Giving just a soft smile to herself Hope stands still holding his hand.

"Come on, lets get you back to the bed where it is comfortable. Rick needs to get some fluids in ya too so you can stay strong."

Helping Scott up the best should could Hope slowly leads him out of the bathroom and back to the bed.

"You know I was thinking, once your feeling better again I'd like to take Domino to the park again with you. I had alot of fun last time."

Alice gives a soft smile to Hunter, a small flicker of thank you flashes in her eyes without any words needing to be spoken.

Hunter's words were soft, and they braught her comfort. It was nice to have someone know her past and understand so many things.

"Your the first one to know this Hunter. I havent shaired it with anyone else. I just...havent seen the reason to."

Alice gives another soft before looking away again up at the star lit sky. It seemed so strange to be talking to someone about this stuff. She never really had any girlfriends she could talk with.

"I think....I think Kyle looks at me more of a sister than anything else. He's my best friend, and..."

Alice thinks back to the beach and the feeling she felt. They had felt warm, and nice, but Kyle's tone had changed so fast. She wasnt sure if it was her or maybe he really did just look at her as a friend.

"...its been a long time since I played the dating game I am not sure I even know how anymore. Not to mention I am not even sure if I am ready to or not."

Assumption

Feeling Hope near, Scott automatically begins to relax a little more. Though having hardly any energy, his fingers curl around Hope's, as if grasping for reality. Her words were reassuring. They helped him stay in the present and know he was safe. Though the images of that horrid place were burned into his mind forever, and though they plagued him and tried to trick him into thinking he was still there, he knew.... he had to know.... that he was safe.

His eyes fall shut again. "Thank you," he whispers. "I don't know what..." He swallows hard, just fighting to make sense in his own mind. "...what I'd do without you."

"Scott? Hope?" Rick comes back in the infirmary, giving a start as he realizes where the two are. Joining them quickly, he kneels next to Scott too, though doesn't make Hope move. "Scott, are you okay?"

Scott nods numbly.

Rick sighs and glances to Hope. He knew what had happened. It was the same thing that had happened so frequently right after Scott had come back from the Agency. "He's too weak to fight this off," he mentions quietly. "I'm gonna have to put him on an IV to get some fluids back into him."


Surprise flickers in Hunter's eyes, but he doesn't interrupt Alice. Though obviously not having expected her to say the things she was, he stands quietly, just listening.

Halfway through, he finally eases down next to her on the bench, his hands still in his pockets, never crowding or invading her space.

As Alice concludes her story, Hunter remains silent for several minutes, his eyes just roaming the park. There were a lot of things he could say. There were a lot of things he could do. He could feel foolish for having asked her out. He could be upset that he didn't know this information. He could question her as to why this made any difference in the present. But instead, his simple words come out soft and low. "I'm sorry."

Though a bit hesitantly, he moves to take her hand. Not in a way that expected anything in return, but in a simple gesture that was the only way he knew how to let her know he truly cared.

"That's a lot for anyone to go through," he comments quietly. "I can't imagine how it must feel... having lost someone you loved so much."

He pauses, carefully choosing his words. "I understand how it could affect your thinking now... how you might be hesitant to get involved with anyone else. I bet sometimes you're afraid of betraying the memory of Seth, if you decided to love again."

Hunter takes a deep breath, letting it out slowly. He'd like to tell her it was okay to move on... he'd like to tell her that she had a right to be happy again. But he knew that she already knew these things. It was obvious that she did know what she deserved and what she needed... but moving beyond the past would have to be on her own terms - not someone else's.

He looks down for a moment, then back up, turning to meet Alice's eyes. He assumed that he was the second man to hear this story. "Is... this why you and Kyle are just friends?"

Reason

Hearing Scott's request Hope enters the tiny bathroom without a second thought. Slidding down in front of Scott Hope gives a soft smile. She felt so sorry for her friend. If only his pain would go away so he could return to his normal life. He deserved so much more than that.

Taking Scott's hand in her own she runs her thump over his fingers before bringing her other hand to his face to looks into his eyes with a soft smile on her face.

"Your here Scott, Your really here with me and your safe. If you wernt than I wouldnt be here eather."

Feeling Hunter's hand on her skin for a moment Alice feels a bit shock. Looking up into Hunter's eyes she can see his consern, and caring nature he showed.

She never shaired her story with anyone of her friends, and she wondered if maybe now it was time. It didnt look like Hunter was going to let her get away easly.

"I..never really shaired my story with many people. It never really came up in conversation and I've delt it so I never really saw the reason to bring it up..I just."

Alice is silent for a moment looking away from Hunter and than at the sky studying the moonlight for a moment. It was almost as if maybe Alice wasnt going to say anymore but finally she starts to talk again.

"Alittle over a year ago I was married. Alot of people were saprised when Seth and I decied to get married. He was a musition and I loved him ever since high school. We dated, went to the same college together. He went for Music and I went for Acting."

Alice is silent for a moment as a smile forms on her face. It was apparent that she was happy recalling these memories.

"Once out of college he started a band. He was the lead singer, and he was so good. Everyone always loved when they played. I remember when he asked me to marry him too it was after a consert and we went for a walk on the beach. Alot of people didnt think we were old enough, and that it would be hard with him traviling and me trying to do my acting. But we were so much in love and we new it would work. After we got married I stoped acting after praying for a long time knowing that my words could be used in another way and I started writing so that way I could be with Seth while he traviled and we were so happy."

After another moment of silence Alice's eyes grow a little dark as she looks down at her hands. Her face suddanly turning a sad at these memories.

"But three months later Seth got really sick. Headacks all he time, dizzy spells, sometimes it was so hard for him to get out of bed. He just figured it was a cold or he had come down with something..."

Alice gives a sad laugh.

"..He was always getting sick. Than one morning while on tour I couldnt wake him up, he was bleeding and he just couldnt wake up."

A few more tears roll from Alice's eyes. She'd delt with all this stuff and moved past the pain but pulling them back up still hurt and made her sad.

"Come to find out he had a brain tumor and it had bursted."

For another moment Alice it quiet before she turns to Hunter and gives a small smile. Though she was still sad about what they talked about there was a still glint of peace that was held in her eye.

"It was a year as of two weeks ago and with God's help I have come to turms with everything that happend and he helped take my pain away and I've moved on, but still. It's hard to get close to someone. I'm not sure why, but I just guess you could say I am scaired and in a way sometimes it does still hurt. It creeps up on me and just....something."

Pain

Hunter cocks his head a little, relieved that he wasn't the one that had caused Alice grief, but something had.

The corner of his mouth upturns just a little. "Yeah... I know what you mean."

He pauses, both hands still tucked in his jacket pockets until he reaches one hand out slowly. He slides a finger under Alice's chin, tilting her head up to look at him again. He saw the leftover tears, and heard the sorrow in her voice. "What makes you want to run and hide, Alice, hmm?"


Scott stays on the floor, with barely enough strength to keep his head up as he throws up again. Exhausted and aching all over, he closes his eyes and just rests his head on the toilet, trying to regain some control. Half of his mind was still trapped in the horrible nightmare.

Hearing Hope's voice, he doesn't move. Cringing, he tries to stop his stomach, but it's no use. Everything he had left was coming up one way or another. He groans a little after retching again. Pain crawled through his gut and his head throbbed.

He just sits, now focusing on trying not to pass out. His voice is weak and timid. "Just... remind me," he begs. "Remind me... that I'm here... and not there..." Though he wishes the bathroom door were closed so he could shut himself off from everything, a part of him was glad that it allowed him to hear Hope's voice.

He swallows hard and leans his head to the side, against the wall, afraid to try getting up just yet, and not knowing if he could anyway.

Sometimes

Looking up quickly not hearing Hunter start coming twords her. Just looking up at him for a moment Alice finally flicks some of the tears from her cheek that still remained. A soft smile forming on her lips again.

"Taking up stalking now huh?"

Alice cant help the small laugh that forms in her throat as the little bit of tears let behind her eyes twinkle in the moonlight.

Now she couldnt help but feel a little bad that Hunter through she was out here because of her. It got so hard sometimes to not let herself get down and she had done so well, but when things like this came along sometimes it was hard.

"Oh Hunter its not because of you I am out here. You didnt do anything wrong. Its because of me I am out here. I just...I dont know. Its so hard sometimes you know? Being happy all the time comes so easy for me yet, sometimes I just want to run and hide when I know I shouldent."

The look in Alice's eye shows she had something heavy on the mind, and though her words came out strong one could tell it was hard to talk about though it felt kind of good to get things off her chest.

Watching Ty Nate cant help but cring just a little. It always hurt just a little when they had to force someone into the intaragation room. It hurt even more when it was someone they new.

"I'm sorry Ty, but you do know some stuff."

Following after Carson and Ty into the room Nate closes the door behind him making sure not to intarupt anyone with there business here. People had enough to worry about than having to worry about this too.

Hearing Scott's whimpers in the bed draws Hope's attachen. Putting down her book Hope is quick on her feel as she moves to Scott's bed. Her heart hurt and went out to him as she tryed to gently walk him. But getting no response she new Scott was deep in a dream.

As he stumbles out of bed Hope gives a small jump backwards being startled. Seeing him trip on his way to the bathroom Hope goes to help him but see that he dosnt want any help she felt so helpless.

Waiting just a few moment Hope finally goes over to the bathrrom but dosnt go in knowing Scott probley wants his privesy.

"Hey Scott, is there anything I can do for you?"

Vivid dreams

Disappointment flickers in Hunter's eyes as Alice explains she'll be busy. He opens his mouth to suggest another time maybe, but before he can even say more, she's already turned and leaving. he was too much of a gentleman to make her stay.

Sighing, he feels his arm where she'd touched him. Finally he turns around, going back into the room with the others.

"Yo, what's keeping you?" Heath bugs him teasingly. "We were just ready to draw straws to see who gets the beds this time."

Hunter grins and shakes his head. "You guys fight over it. I can stand to sleep on the floor." He glances around the room. "Where's Kyle?"

"Shower," Blake informs. "He had first dibs and we weren't gonna stop him."

Shawn laughs. "He left a trail of sand."

Though joining in the laughter, Hunter grabs his leather jacket. "I think I'm gonna get some fresh air, guys. I need to breathe before I sleep."

The night air is cool, and Hunter makes his way out of the hotel onto the sidewalk. He was unfamiliar with this town, but it seemed quiet enough. He felt safe. It wasn't like he feared not being able to defend himself.

Heading left, he isn't sure where he's going, but he doesn't mind. He tries to shake off the lingering disappointment in the back of his mind, but it was holding on tightly. He felt just a little foolish, and was just as glad that no one else had seen him crash and burn with Alice. He could tell that she'd made up an excuse not to go with him. He knew she was busy with her work, but he also knew that she could take time out if she wanted to. After all, she'd taken off on the spur of the moment with Kyle...

Again, Hunter wondered if there really was more between those two than Kyle would admit. He just didn't know.

Sighing, he heads across a street, down, then makes another turn. He saw a small park ahead and opts to scout it out. It had a few warm lights that glowed, making the atmosphere appealing. He shrugs. Why not?

Hunter meanders into the park, taking his time. It was late, and they had an early start tomorrow, but he didn't mind. Every once in a while, he needed to be alone, even if it meant sacrificing some sleep time.

Wandering around for a few minutes, a figure on one of the benches catches his eye. It looked as though he wasn't the only night owl. He would have ignored it, but something made him go for a closer look. Drawing nearer, he has to squint. The bench was just far enough away from any lights that it made it hard for him to make out any features. But getting just a little closer, he recognizes her.

Stopping, Hunter almost turns around. Though a little confused, he suddenly felt as though he was invading Alice's privacy. And as he studied her still form, it looked as though something was bothering her. Was it him? Had he been more forward than he'd thought? Was it something he'd said to her earlier? It almost seemed to coincidental.

He turns, ready to walk away. But something stops him. He sighs and rolls his eyes. He'd already made an idiot of himself once tonight - what was one more time?

Hunter walks slowly, cautiously, his hands in his pockets. He stops a few feet from Alice, his eyes showing a soft concern. He didn't know what to say. "If you're out here because of me... I'm sorry." His eyes drift to the ground, then back up again. "I didn't follow you," he establishes quickly. "I just... needed some air and... well... I'm sorry if I offended you earlier."


"Great." Carson nods to Nate. "Let me go get him, then come with us. We'll go to the empty interrogation room so we're out of anyone else's way."

Turning, he goes straight to Ty, not allowing the younger man time to get to the lower level where he would have started work for the night. “Hey, Ty… got a minute?”

Ty lifts an eyebrow in question. “Um… yeah. Whatcha need?”

Carson slings an arm around his shoulders, starting to guide him towards the hall, joining up with Nate again. “We just got a couple questions for you is all.”

“Questions?” Ty looks between Carson and Nate, his eyes showing concern. “About what?” He tries to stop, but Carson doesn’t let him.

“You’ll see. Just come with us.”

Turning into the hall, Ty realizes they’re headed for the interrogation room. He balks, but Carson finally wrenches his arm behind his back, forcing him towards the door.

“No!” Ty still struggles, his eyes growing wide with fear. “I didn’t do anything! Nate, tell him!”


Scott feels Hope's hand to his shoulder, but he doesn't move. He was too exhausted. Just knowing that someone he trusted was near was enough to help him relax. Rick wasn't here at the moment, and Misty was in and out. But he had someone here... someone watching over him.

Though slitting one eye open once to catch a glimpse of Hope reading, Scott slips into sleep once more. It isn't long though, before his mind is overtaken by dreams that he wished would stay buried.

The images were dark and frightening. They were full of people from the Agency, but the feeling of death lingered in the halls. Blood was smattered on the walls, and it ran out from under one of the closed doors where screaming could be heard. Scott tried to stop - he wanted to help, but he was pushed forward with merciless jabs and kicks. He was being taken from one room to the next, put through tests and questioning. They gave him the terrible shots that he remembered, sending pain through his whole body.

Scott started to writhe in bed, the pain from his sore ribs just making the nightmare seem all the more real.

Half the people were living, but half seemed like zombies - robots caught up in the world of the Agency. They shouted questions at him, and tears ran down his face as he begged for mercy. The only escape was the cold, dark cell. No... they were taking him there again to that horrid dungeon. No, he didn't want to go!

Scott groaned and his fingers tightened around his pillow, twisting the bedsheets as sweat started to pour down his face.

Down the stairs and through the dingy corridor. The fingers that were wrapped around his arm tightened to the point of bruising. They were like cold bones with no warmth or feeling. The smell of rotting flesh hit Scott's nose, making his stomach churn. Falling, his hands and knees hit the cold, damp stone floor. He was kicked in the gut until he rolled into the next open cell. The door was slammed shut, sealing his fate for the night. His body unable to stand the horrors, he pulled himself to the corner where he threw up. A rat crawled across his hand, looking for a meal.

Still writhing in bed, Scott winces. Somehow, something snaps him back to reality before he has to face the next gruesome scene.

He sits bolt upright in bed, shaking all over, his pulse racing and his breathing rapid and shallow. He blinks in the light and looks around wildly, trying to figure out where he is with limited vision. Still in a fog, the only thing that hits his mind next is the sensation that had carried over from his dream. But this time it was real.

Quickly rolling out of bed, Scott aims for the infirmary bathroom. Still groggy and not focused, his foot catches on the cot, sending him to the floor. He doesn't wait for any help though, and can only crawl the rest of the way, barely making it to the toilet before he throws up.


“You didn’t even track him?!” Jason stared at Reese with disbelief. “I know we didn’t mention it in the meeting, but come on! Even you should know better than that!”

Reese was on his feet in his office, and he looked sternly at Jason. “I made the decision that I thought was best. We couldn’t risk the Agency finding Phinox wired.”

“Oh, but you could risk him walking away and trashing this whole case?”

“He’s not going to walk away.”

“How do you know that?!”

A new figure appeared in the office doorway, and Derek looked back and forth between the two men. Despite Reese’s order for sleep, it looked like only a few people were actually doing it. Not that he could blame any of them. “Sorry for interrupting,” he apologizes. “Jay and I just wondered was the latest was.”

Jason spins around to roll his eyes. “Nothing. Absolutely nothing. Unless you count Phinox walking out of here with us having no idea where he was going!”

“I told you my reasons,” Reese intervenes. “Now either get on board with this and learn to trust me and Phinox both, or go wait in your office until it’s over.”

“I can’t stay out of it!” Jason raises his voice. All of his pent-up frustrations were starting to boil over. “Katie’s being tortured, we got more than one traitor in our midst, and on top of it, we dragged in two dead weights who could blow the whole thing for us!”

Derek straightens, his eyes narrowing just a bit. “Hey.” He forces Jason to look at him. Both men were the same height, and they stared each other in the eye. “I was in this game long before you. Now I know you don’t like me. You probably downright hate me. But Jay and I came because we care about Katie’s life too. Don’t continue judging us just because you’re an agent here. We’re here to be a team. And Reese is the leader. How about respecting his decisions for once?”

Reese gives a nod. “Thank you.” He looks sternly back to Jason. “I think we’re clear on this.”

Being talked down by his father was not something Jason had planned on, nor was it something he appreciated. Instead of calming him, it only made him feel more frustrated. “No, we’re not clear! Why aren’t we out trying to find Katie’s location?! I don’t understand why we keep doing things Phinox’s way, acting like we’re so afraid of the Agency!”

Reese had had enough. “Stand down, Jason. Or you’re off the case for good.”

“You can’t tell me to stand down when it’s Katie who’s out there!” Jason slams his fist down on the desk. “You’re not being fair!”

“That’s it, Jase!” Reese points to the door. “You’re off the case.”

“You can’t do that!”

“I can and I just did! You have the choice of staying in your office or going home. There are no other options. You have pushed too far.”

“But-”

“No! You are dismissed.”

Jason looks at Derek, then Reese, his eyes blazing. Spinning around, he stalks out of the office.

Reese groans and sinks into his chair, putting his face in his hands. “I wanted him on this case,” he mumbles. “He’s one of the best we got, and if anything went wrong, I wanted him on top of it.”

“Sometimes the best aren’t the best option.” Derek sighs. “He and Katie are close, huh?”

“Extremely. Where there’s one, the other’s not far behind. I’ve never seen a better team, though they have had their rough times too.”

“Romance?”

Reese nods. “Yeah. Quite frankly, I’m surprised they’re not married yet. Though it’s probably just as good they’re not. They’re both young with a lot of growing up to do. Someday though… won’t shock anybody if they do wind up together.”

A pang in Derek’s heart, reminds him of how much of Jason’s life he’s missed. His son… a grown man with a life of his own, maybe starting a family of his own not to long from now. If only Derek had known Austin’s lies. If only he’d found out the truth sooner so he could be a part of Jason’s life. But life wasn’t always the way anybody wanted it. “I can’t blame Jason for being this upset then. Can’t say I’d be any different.”

“No… I just wish… I don’t know what I wish.”

“Reese?”

He looks up quickly at the new voice, lifting his eyebrows at Con. “Yes?”

Con had been resting, then had been with Ryder and Laura for a little while. Now he was trying to stay in the loop. “I just saw Jason take off. Wondered what was happening.”

“He left huh?” Reese shrugs. “Well, it’s probably better than him moping in his office.”

“Couldn’t take it?”

Reese shakes his head. “Not well, anyway. I told him he couldn’t be on this case anymore. He was getting too hot.”

“You think he’ll go home, or try his own way of solving this thing?”

“I hadn’t thought of that… You wanna check and see if he went home?”

Con nods. “I can do that.” He pauses before leaving though, giving Derek a nod. “Stick around for a while when this is over… once tempers cool, I think it might be worth it.”

Derek watches him go, then looks back to Reese. He seen Con from a distance, but didn’t know who he was. “Who was that?”

“Conrad Gibbs. Jason’s best friend, besides Katie. Good man. Trying to get him back as an agent.”

Report

Smiling and giving a good last laugh Alice says goodnight to help and starts to head with Chloe out the door.

Being stoped by Hunter saprises Alice just a little but she turns and smile at Hunter anyways. She liked everyone in the group and though they might do somethings that saprised her she new she had nothing to fear.

Hearing Hunter's comment about having her along and keeping Kyle in line Alice smiles. It felt good to be complmented like that and to know she was welcomed in this small group.

"Hey someones got to do it you know. Not to mention its nice breaking out of the norm. Having someone like Kyle to keep up with me as well is pretty nice too."

Getting prepaired to walk away again Alice is cut off by Hunter's next question. For a moment she just stands there stairing at him not to sure what to say. This was the second time in one night she had someone who found intrust in her. The heavy beating of Alice's heart echo in her ears.

She didnt dislike Hunter, and he gave her a flutter but something held her back. It braough a ping to her heart and the same look that passed off happyness and excitment had quickly changed to a small sadness like it had on the beach with Kyle.

"I'm sorry Hunter, I have a report I need to finish tomarrow and I think I'll be working on it all day. Its rather important and I have been naglecting it for a few days now. I...I am sorry. Thank you though for asking."

Giving Hunter's arm a small squeeze Alice's smile never left her face. Hurring quickly into the other room Alice shuts the door and for a moment leans aganst it closing her eyes.

What was wrong with her? After a year a longly year she still was scaired to open to anyone and be closer to them. Hunter was a nice guy, good looking, and Alice new she could have fun with him, but she mad up some lame reason why she couldnt go. Kyle made her smile, and when he touched her she could feel the heat rise to her cheeks and could feel what was almost like an eletric shock hit her, but yet...she had kept him at bay when it was clear he liked her too.

A small tear rolled down from Alice's eye making its path over her cheek and to the floor. When she was with her friends she felt so happy, whole, but when she was alone...she was alone. Though she new she wasnt and he had God's lover to keep her company she still new she was missing something. Something she had so long ago.

Pushing off the door Alice takes a few steps into the room but keeps her back turned a little to make sure Chloe couldnt see the tears that formed in Alice's eyes.

"Chloe, I am going to go for a little walk. I'll be back shortly."

Alice new it was late but she had to clear her head even if it was just sitting on a park bench and clearing her head.

Turning she lets the door fall shut behind her and makes her way down the hall to the elevator.

Question

Kyle lifts one eyebrow, staring back at Alice with a silly look of competitiveness. "I have eaten enough sand tonight without needing any more dust."

Chloe smirks. "So not only were you rolling in it, you were eating it too."

"Roughage!"

"Oh, gag." Chloe slaps down a card. "It's your turn, bozo."

"Great! I shall...." Kyle holds out his cards, ready to lay one down, but discovers he has nothing to play. "I shall draw a card."

The others involved in the game can't help but laugh, teasing Kyle as he starts to draw one card, then another... then another. Winding up with a handfull of cards, he finally pulls out a wild draw-four card. "Ha! Hunter, that one is for you, buddy!"

Hunter groans as his turn is skipped and four cards are added to his own hand. "Thanks a heap."

The hours roll on, no one wanting the fun and games to end. But as a few start to yawn, everyone had won at least twice. No one had kept track of who won the most games, but no one really cared.

Jordan is the first to stand up and stretch, helping Myla up as well. "Goodnight, y'all. See you in the morning."

"Yeah, goodnight." Chloe waves as the couple goes to their own room. She sighs and stands up, piling the UNO cards on the table. "Well, Alice, looks like you and I are next door. I doubt these boys want company too much longer."

The guys laugh and finally stand up too, ready to prepare the room for the night.

Chloe disappears into the hall, making sure Alice is close behind. But Hunter is also on their heels, stopping Alice at the door. "Hey, Alice?" He leans on the doorway, giving her a soft smile. "I'm glad you're traveling with us. You really add a lot, you know that?"

He gives a short laugh. "And you help keep Kyle in line too." Glancing over his shoulder, he make sure he's still alone before looking back down to Alice. "Listen, um... tomorrow night we'll be stopping again. It'll be the last night for a while that we'll actually get to settle in for an evening, and... I was wondering if maybe you'd like to go out to dinner... with me? ...Just the two of us?"

Day goes on

Watching what Hunter was showing her and telling her how to play. Moving cards around she sets up her hand thinking she probley has the hang on it.

"Ok, I can do this it dosnt seem to hard."

Giving a laugh and looking at Hunter as her cross the table Alice smile is bright with excitment for the new game.

"Ready to eat my dust Kyle?"

Alice throws a playful wink at Kyle before looking down at her cards and throwng a blue 4 down.

Hope gives a nod to Reese and goes over to the cot. Grabbing it she pulls it close to Scott's bed trying to make as little sound as she can.

Looking over at him to see if he was a sleep or not She gives his shoulder a little rub to let him know she was there again and sits down on the cot.

She was right there is Scott needed her, only second away from her friend. Hope could tell her feels for Scott had sifted and they had formed a deeper relationship to a certin level. She liked the feeling of having Scott for a friend.

Pulling out her book next Hope starts to read it. She was far from tired and this would keep her mind busy for now.

Heading up and out of TJY Phinox sits in his car for a moment and lets out a long sigh. His mind going everything that would go down tonight. Trying to keep his nerves at bay he new Rod would pick up on them if he didnt.

Finally pulling out of the parking lot Phinox makes his way to the meeting spot. It was now or never and he couldnt let Katie have to suffer longer than needed.

Nate cant help but be a bit surprised to hear that it was Ty who had been the one to over ride the security. This was another thing to add to the bizzar list.

At least for now though it was something to take there mind off everything going on with Katie. They were sitting on the sidelines right now anyways until Phinox came back anyways. If he sat, just waiting he would end up going crazy.

"Ok, lets question him now. We really dont have anything else we can do at the moment."

Standing Nate lets out a sigh as the lines under his eyes show how tired he was. Though he has slept for a little over an hour it wasnt very well. He just wanted this to be over so life could go back to normal. But how normal would it really be with people like the Agency out there or people who would hurt someone like Scott.

"I'll follow your lead."

Welcomed distraction

Hunter's grin spreads, his eyes twinkling. He ambles up behind Alice to look at her cards. "You could learn this game in ten seconds flat." He laughs. "But that doesn't mean it's less competitive with this group."

Leaning down, he slings an arm over one of her shoulders, reaching around with his other hand to point to the cards she was holding. It doesn't take much to explain the game. The rules were simple, and they didn't have any bizarre house rules to contend with. "So if there's a blue seven down there, you could play your blue five, or your red seven, see?"

Kyle eases down in a chair across the table, grabbing some cards to shuffle absentmindedly. He glances to Hunter and Alice, watching them for several moments.

"Hey." Chloe nudges him with her elbow. "You awake?"

"Me? Ha!" Kyle grabs his can of pop, downing another mouthful. "You bet."

Chloe giggles. "Is it just me, or are you kinda wet?"

"And sandy," Kyle clarifies.

"How on earth did you manage that?"

"It's a long story involving a spider and my pantleg."

"I don't think I wanna know."

"Smart woman." Kyle grimaces. "I need a shower."

"So go take one."

"And miss out on all this fun?" Kyle glances around the table, his eyes pausing over Hunter and Alice again. "I'm not gonna be a party pooper." Her looks back to Chloe with a silly grin. "Not to mention, I'm not gonna pass up wooping everybody's butts."

Chloe's jaw drops. "Not mine! You're gonna be on my team, Bud."

"Well alright then." Kyle hands her the cards. "Madam Dealer, you're up." Glancing back across the table, he cups his hands over his mouth and speaks loudly. "If the training session can come to a close, we can actually play this game."

"Be nice," Jordan chides teasingly. "It's not every day that Hunter finds something he's smart enough about to teach someone else."

Hunter looks up and throws both men a smirk. "Thanks, guys." He cocks his head down and around to see Alice's face. "I think we need to knock these brutes down a peg or two, what do you say?"

He straightens and ruffles Alice's hair teasingly. Grabbing the chair next to her, he sits down and tosses Chloe the extra cards to shuffle. "Alright, lets go!"


Scott stirs a little as Sapphire gets up to leave, and curls up a little tighter, his head sinking further into his pillow. A few second later though, a sweet scent wafts through the air, and the corner of his mouth upturns. He didn't have to look. He knew Hope was back. And he knew that she would stay.

Rick sees Hope and gives her a warm smile, knowing why she was there. He respected her for it.

"I set up a cot in the corner," he offers. "It's going to be a long night around here, so if you get tired, feel free."


Reese stands up from his desk, giving Phinox a nod. "I appreciate your role in this, Simon. Be careful and make it back as soon as you can. We'll be waiting, but if we don't hear from you by three, we'll start to move on our own. Good luck."


After having spoken to Reese, then checked in on Wyatt and the monitor to find that all was quiet with Katie, Carson makes his way over to Nate's desk. He hadn't slept yet... he still needed to. But right now, he felt this was more important.

"Nate..." He approaches slowly, trying to keep his head together. The stress was getting to him, and in a bad way. But he had to keep going. "I just spoke with Reese, and he wanted me to let you in on this..."

Taking only a minute or two, Carson explains what Sapphire had discovered. "...so when Ty gets here, Reese wants us to question him and find out who it was that came. Scott's not going to say at this point. I think he's just scared. But we need to know who was able to get in."

Just as he's finished, the door to the main floor opens and Ty steps through, back for the night. Carson lifts his eyebrows. "Speak of the devil. Your call whether we grab him now or later... but the sooner the better."

Though most likely none of this had anything to do with Katie, Carson needed something to keep himself busy, and working on this was enough to keep his mind distracted from his friend that was in so much danger, at the mercy of the Agency.

One Am

Sitting at the table Alice laughter rings as a comment is tossed around and she makes another one that added to it. This group was always fun, it was nice to be around them they took her mind off other things and Kyle...he was a blast.

Seeing Hunter come back into the room Alice gives a smile as she holds up her cards.

"So...how do we play this game and I wanna be on Hunter's team. Its on now Kyle...its on now."

Though she felt a little silly for not knowing how to play a game that was pretty comman Alice hide the embarrassment well.

Sapphire smiles at her brother and gives his a hand a gentil squeeze as he falls into sleep. She didnt want to leave him, but she did have more work to day.

Gentily laying his hand down next to him she stans and makes her way for the room right as Hope is entering again. Giving a small smile she tells her Scott's message.

"Scott said you didnt have to stay."

Hope gives a small nod.

"Its ok, I want to."

Turning Sapphire continues to leave the infermary. She was kind of happy Hope said she would stay. Knowing her brother had a friend who stay by his side, and keep watch when she couldent put her mind at ease.

Taking both saringes Phinox gives a nod. He know people didnt trust him right now, but he was happy they were at least going with what he said. Getting Katie out was what was important right now, what happend after that he would deal with when the time came and new it was justice.

"Thank you Rick. As soon as I get Gage back here I will bring him to the intaragation room and than come to get you. He might need medical attachen I dont know."

Turning and heading out of the infermary Phinox stops for a moment and turns to see Scott sleeping. Letting out a sigh her felt sorry for the poor boy. But remembering he was on limited time Phinox continues along on his way and heads for Reese office.

Knocking on the door Phinox enters and steps into the room. Looking at Reese he gives a nod.

"Its time, I probley wont have any time to call you and let you know whats going on inbetween but if all goes well you should see me on the camra once Rod leaves. I am going to reasure Katie help is on the way. If I can give her any hope at all that should help."

Phinox lets out a sigh. Though he got a little sleep from the stress he felt like it had been ages since he really had slept at all.

"I have seditives for Gage, and my memorie is clear. I should have no problems at all. With any luck I should be back by one am."

Concern only for others

Kyle chuckles and shakes his head, letting himself get pulled along to the jeep. "Yeah well... even best friends can invade."

Contemplating Alice's final remark, Kyle opens his mouth to respond, but for once, lets it close again. For once, he held his tongue. A quiet "you're welcome" is all he finally manages to say before slipping into the jeep.

"Well, if we keep the windows down we might get dry by the time we get back to the hotel," he teases. As they pull from the parking lot, he sticks his head out the window, yelling at the top of his lungs. "Look out, world! Alice is driving!"

Arriving at the hotel, they find the two reserved rooms, but until everyone went to bed, they had gathered in the larger one for some fun and games. A knock at the door brings Hunter to let them both in.

"Well, hey guys. Thought we might need to send out a search party," he teases.

Kyle grins as he follows Alice in. "Aw, you were worried about us? How sweet."

"Come on an join us," Chloe begs from the table. "They're killing me in UNO. I need some support."

"After refueling," Kyle states flatly. He breaks away from the others and heads to the little kitchenette where he knew they'd have the sixpack of Mountain Dew from the bus. "Ahhh, heaven."

Hunter is right behind him, reaching around for a can of Pepsi. "So where'd you two run off to anyway?"

"Hmm?" Kyle was only half-listening as he took a swig of his pop. "Oh, just down to that beach we passed on the way in. Somebody was shooting off fireworks somewhere so we got to see them."

"Ah." Hunter nods a little. "So, um... have fun?"

"I always have fun." Kyle squints at him, sensing there was something more. "Why?"

"Oh, I don't know. Can't a guy ask his friend if he had fun on his date?"

Kyle's eyebrows shoot up. "Whoa. Who said anything about a date?"

"Well that's what it looks like."

"What? We were just out for a walk."

"Mm-hmm..." Hunter fingers Kyle's damp shirt, rubbing bits of sand between his fingers. "Tidal wave?"

Kyle rolls his eyes. "Knock it off."

"What? What did I do?" Hunter cocks his head. "Why don't you just admit it that you and Alice are closer than friends?"

Kyle swallows another mouthful of pop, starting to feel the caffeine kick in. "Because... I'd be lying?"

Hunter looks at him squarely. "You mean to tell me that you two are just friends. That's it. Nothing more."

"Right." Kyle nods. "I'd say we're..." He shrugs. "Best of friends. I probably rank somewhere between annoying brother and close cousin."

Hunter's eyes narrow as he studies Kyle's face. "Guess I read you wrong."

"Guess you did."

"Well, better for me anyway. I wasn't going to intrude by asking her out, but now I won't be intruding."

Kyle almost spits out his pop. "Ask her out?"

"Yeah, you know, one of those things where I take her to dinner.... we sit... we talk..." Hunter gives Kyle a slap upside the head. "One of those things you aren't doing."

"You? And Alice?"

"Well, I might not be the best looking guy around, but come on... I gotta at least try, right? Got a problem with it?"

"No, no.... no." Kyle shakes his head. "No.... why would I?"

"That, I wouldn't know." Hunter grins. "You should ask Chloe out sometime, just for the fun of it."

"Heh... right." Kyle watches as Hunter leaves to rejoin the others. He takes another sip of pop and just stands alone for several moments. No, Chloe was nice and they were friends, but that's as far as that went. His personality got to her after a while. Not like Alice. She could handle his quirkiness for days on end.

Taking another swig, Kyle realizes that he's just downed the whole can of pop. "Hmm." He goes to get another one, popping the tab before rejoining the group. Tonight, a lively mask was required. "Look out. Kyle, the master of cards is coming through!"


Scott swallows hard and lets his eyes fall shut once again. He knew what his sister meant... he knew she was trying to protect him. But at this point, he felt more like a file of information that had betrayed TJY, than an agent.

His grip on Sapphire's hand slowly loosens, and it's apparent that he's close to sleep. "Tell Hope... she doesn't have to stay," he mumbles. "She shouldn't have to... worry... about me." His breathing slows, his body finally starting to relax as exhaustion forces him into a shallow level of sleep.


Rick studies Simon for a moment, contemplating his choices. He didn't really trust him completely... but what would a couple sedatives hurt? They wouldn't kill anybody, and if they would help bring Katie back, then it was worth the risk.

"Okay." He goes to the cabinet and preps two syringes that he hands to Phinox. "One of these should knock an average man out for about half an hour. Be careful with Gage. I heard Carson say he was on drugs. That could make him more difficult to take down. If you have to, use both shots."

Never Uncomfortable

Alice gives a smile and a small nod. Sometimes she hated finding the deeper meaning of words, and sometimes she hated how it causes a small fear into the fearless. It was not a feeling she liked since so long ago it was so strong.

"I guess if we are talking about sand, than yes the best place for it is on the beach."

Looking up again Alice regains her smile as she gives Kyle a soft shove and gets the happy moon back.

"But, if we are talking about best friends they belong everywhere because its never uncomfortable to have them around."

Standing Alice gives herself a quick brush off before looking to the sky again to watch the last of the fireworks go off. Giving a content sigh Alice throws her arm around Kyle's shoulder and pulls his twords the Jeep once more.

"I guess we should get back before they really do think we ran away huh? Thanks Kyle for spending this time with me. It ment more than u will ever know."

Sapphire gives her brother a stern look. She didnt like that he though this way and whoever had scaired him so much. She wanted him to believe her she only wish he would.

"No, one life dosnt make up for many. This was wrong no matter the reason."

Figuring it was best for now to stray off the subject Sapphire's expression changed to a more soft one, with a smile that spread across her lips as a small laugh came from her lips.

"Hey ten minutes is ten minutes you know."

Looking up at the clock after waking Phinox takes note that there is only a half hour left till his meeting. He needed finishing getting ready now so he could leave in fifteen.

Phinox couldnt help the feeling in the pit of his stomach. Rod was good, and if Phinox made one wrong it would be game over. He had one shot and couldnt mess it up.

Standing and checking his gun alone with a few other personaly belonging he new that he might be asked for Phinox makes his way to the infermary. Entering he gives a quick glance around the room taking not to who was in there before making his way over to Rick and leabing on his desk a little.

"Hey Rick, I was wondering if you could saply me with two saringes of seditive. Once I get Gage alone it will be alot easyer if I knock him out and will take up less time. If you cant I understand and can do with out it will just be alot harder."

Ten minutes

Kyle's eyes don't leave Alice's, as he tries to decipher her feelings by the light of the fireworks. One second, he was so sure that the tingle down his spine hadn't been caused by his own assumptions or by a one-sided attraction. Then the next, he was just as sure that he'd overstepped his bounds as a friend, and that the implication of his prior words had been inappropriate.

As she lowers his hand and holds it, he continues to search her face as she speaks. Her words felt cryptic. But... were they? Or were they intended as clearly as they sounded? Either way, he could feel the heat on the back of his neck that slowly made its way into his face. He was glad it was dark. Sometimes he just didn't know when enough was enough.

Though he quirks his typical silly grin, he slowly withdraws his hand from hers. "Well, I guess if we're talking about sand, some people would prefer just letting it get between their toes as they walk on the beach, rather than letting it invade anywhere else it doesn't belong."

Rolling over, Kyle gets to his feet and starts brushing himself off. "I suppose a shower would be a good thing right about now. Guess they'll be waiting for us back at the hotel by now anyway."


Scott is silent for several long minutes. He lets his eyes fall shut, but his grip on Sapphire’s hand indicates that he hasn’t fallen asleep. He’s just thinking.

Eventually, he opens his eye again. "If a thousand people could be saved by losing the life of one... wouldn't it be worth it?"

He licks his dry lips, his tone indicating his surrender. He'd given up hope that he hadn't turned on TJY, even if he couldn't remember all of it. And he was convinced that if someone could use the information he had to help TJY, then no matter how they did it, it was worth it.

A brave smile emerges just on the corner of his mouth. "You like taking advantage of the fact that you're just ten minutes older than me, don't you?" He gives her hand a squeeze. He would crumble when he was alone... he would break down in front of Hope... he would be scared, lost and confused when once again the only sound was the beating of his heart. But in front of his sister... he would try to be strong.

"It's okay," he whispers, his eye falling shut once again. "I'm okay."

Good Feeling

Sitting on the edge of the bed next to her brother Sapphire keeps her hand on Scott's. Her heart hurt for her brother more than anything and though they hadnt been close, and though she would never let Scott know she had always been there not saying a word but watching him making sure he was ok. Though school and much else she watched quietly so if he ever did need her she would be ready.

And than, when she thought she wasnt needed anymore and her brother could do without out this had to happen. If only she he stoped and took the time months ago to get to know her brother again maybe she would of been there and this wouldnt of happend.

No matter how much she new it wasnt her fault, it still hurt and made her stop to think if only. It was hard to see her brother like this.

"Weather they were protecting TJY or not they had no right to do this. There are lines to draw even for us in The Elite, and when this was done to you it crossed that line."

Drawing in a breath Sapphire stops for a moment. She was the quiet one, but she had so many feeling that ran through her she just shaired not to voice. Finally look at her brother again she continues.

"There are rules, and ways to handle things that do not involve violance. There jobs were not to kick the crap out of you. They were wrong and thats the end of the story. Besides all that, your my little brother and I know your nothing but a good man. I know that deep in my heart no matter what anyone else says I know its true."

Just letting Kyle run his finger over her cheek Alice is comfortabel for the moment. Kyle was a friend and they did everything together who would of thought now this feeling would rise in the pit of her stomach like butterflys were moving around.

Keeping her eyes closed Alice enjoys Kyle's hand for a moment longer untill his coment hits her ears. Not being able to help it Alice breaks down the words to see the deeper meaning to them.

Opening her eyes she looks into Kyle's and though she wouldnt admit it she new what he was saying. As her cheeks turn red Alice's eyes seems to contradick eachother with in minutes one moment saying they were happy with Kyle's words and they made her feel good, only to be replaced with a sadness.

Looking into Kyle's a little longer Alice felt so confused with her feelings. She had grown close to Kyle and it was nice for someone to give her, her own attchen but she couldnt help a small bit a guilt.

Looking down to the ground Alice takes Kyle's hand in her own and though she looked a little side a small smile was still on her lips.

"Its funny to think how fast someone can attach themself to something not wanting to let go. The hard part is figured if the attachen is a good feeling or not."

Wet sand

With Alice’s face returning to rest in Kyle’s palm, he doesn’t withdraw. Strangely, his heart skips a beat.

A small grin quirks the corner of his mouth at her comment about the sand. His thumb gently strokes her cheek, feeling how soft and smooth her face really was. He swallows hard, not quite knowing what to do with the strange feeling that had settled over the moment.

His tone is so mellow and quiet, a stark contrast to his earlier boisterous teasing. “Yeah… it’s hard to get rid of once it gets to know you…”


Scott nods a little at Hope, unable to express that he really did appreciate her willingness to keep an eye on him while he was here. Though she was leaving, he believed her, that she would be back, and knowing that brought a small amount of comfort. There was a reassurance about her… a peace that Scott needed right now.

His eyes closed, he just lies still, listening to the various sounds around him. Rick had returned… Misty was working in the corner. Voices carried from down the hall. He was much more attentive to sounds than he used to be. Unfortunately, it just added to him being skittish.

Almost dozing off from pure exhaustion, a new presence is felt. He hadn’t heard her enter, but he knew someone was close and he tenses. Feeling Sapphire’s hand and hearing her voice though, he relaxes again. He shifts his hand to curl his thin fingers around her own, giving her hand a little squeeze. “I’m okay,” he responds softly.

Managing to get his good eye open, he looks up at his sister. Despite having failed at so many things… despite feeling so small and weak… he always wanted to be stronger for her. There were so many times when they’d been younger that he hadn’t been there for her. Both had had a tough time in school, neither popular, and both getting picked on. But Scott had never been strong enough to help defend her. He’d had too much trouble just trying to keep himself from getting locked in the bathroom or pushed around in the halls. And here at TJY… Sapphire didn’t need him. Their jobs didn’t often overlap and Scott really never got a chance to talk to her much, let alone be a brother to her.

Though after his supposed death, they’d made more of an effort to talk more, there was still a gap there. It was one that Scott didn’t like, but one that he just didn’t know how to fix.

“They were just doing their job,” he speaks again, remaining quiet. “I was a threat to TJY.”

A feeling

Giving a small smile to Scott Hope seemed to understand what he was saying even though he didnt say it out loud. She new how he must feel lost and alone.

"Ok, well I am gonna run home and change, grab something to eat and than I will be back. I like spending time with you Scott. I wont be long."

Turning Hope leaves the infermary and heads back out of TJY to make her rout home. Some new cloths and a little food would keep her energised.

Sapphire gives Carson a nod knowing he would tell Reese when he saw fit. As long as whoever was question and justince was served for her brother Sapphire was happy.

Turning around and going back inside Sapphire gives a shake of her head. She wasnt close to her brother much anymore, and she didnt talk to him much but that didnt mean she felt less about him. He was her brother and she loved him. Know someone had hurt him made her upset and she didnt want them to get away with it.

Heads down stairs Sapphire takes a new rout insted of back to her desk and heads for the infermary.

Entering Sapphire is hesatint but walks slowly over to her brother. Not seeing Hope in the room she moves to the front of her brother and rests her hand on top of his. Her heart acked for him.

"Hey little brother, how are you feeling?"

Looking back down at Kyle Alice's smile stays ferm as she continues to let small laughs escape. She deffintly had a fun time being around Kyle and he helped her keep the smile on her face in place.

As a new look forms in Kyle's eyes Alice's smile fades a little but not to a displeased look. Closing her own eyes for a moment she leans her head into Kyle's hand feeling his warmth on her skin. This time is was much differnt than before, this time it felt much more than a friendly gest. It was a feeling that she had missed.

Her voice small, and almost a bit weak Alice whispers.

"Darn wet sand sticking to me!"

You know what happens

Carson's head snaps as he hears Sapphire's voice. Caught, there's not much he can do but smirk at her. "Yeah, well just make sure Doc Miller don't know and we'll be fine."

Finishing off his cigarette, he crushes it out on the ground, turning his concentration to what Sapphire had to show him. Learning of Ty, his eyes widen. "What?"

He takes the papers and scans them, making sure Sapphire was right. "Why would he...?" Carson shakes his head. "I just don't get it." He glances at his watch. He'd seen Ty leave about an hour ago, but he'd be back before morning.

"Don't show this to anybody else," Carson directs Sapphire. "I'll tell Reese, but we have to let Ty come back not knowing that we found out. Then we can grab him and question him."


Scott manages to open his one eye and study Hope's face as she talks. He was a little calmer now, but still, having her close and hearing her voice again continued to put him in a more relaxed state.

He shakes his head a little. He wasn't hungry. At best, he was nauseas more than anything else. The thought of food just made his stomach turn.

The offer of Domino makes him stop and think though. But he finally just shakes his head again.

"Ty is checking on her," he responds quietly. "She shouldn't.... be here right now."

Scott searches Hope's eyes for a moment, wishing beyond wishing that just once he could just be himself without needing her help. He was glad she was there, and glad she offered that help, but just once he wanted to be strong enough that he could stand on his own two feet in front of her. But as it sat... he was still on the receiving end... and whether he liked it or not, he needed it. Her company wasn't disliked though. A part of him was not only grateful that she had come, but her presence was so calming.

He takes in a deep breath slowly, wincing at the pain in his ribs that it caused. "I'll still be here though," he finishes lamely. He didn't know how to say that even though he didn't want food and didn't think she should pick up Domino that he still wanted her company during her late supper.


Kyle finally uncovers his face, still laughing. He takes a deep breath, trying to stop, and blinks, looking up at Alice. There was so much running through his mind. All of her prior words, he knew he would revisit in his mind later when he was alone. For now though, another laugh escapes. The silliness was too fun to let go of too quickly. "He's either crushed or I scared him so much he'll never be back. Either way, I'm happy."

The grin on his face is as silly one, the humor twinkling in his eye. His gaze still on Alice, his peripheral vision still sees the fireworks going off in the distance.

For a couple seconds, he's quiet, the moment seeming to grow more solemn, but suddenly another grin breaks out. "You know what happens when you're wet and you roll in the sand, don't you?" He laughs. Sand stuck to everything.

Reaching up, he brushes some sand off the side of Alice's face. As his fingers touch her skin, something flickers in his eyes. The humor felt like it had just been sucked out of the moment, replaced by something completely different. Not bad, but very different.

His eyes catch hers. Why he felt like he'd just done something, wrong, he didn't know. He retracts his arm a little, his hand just hovering near her face, not knowing whether to finish the job or let her do it herself.

Promises. Relationships. Comfort

Standing from her own cubicle Sapphire can just make out Carson leaving the building. Not to sure if he was just steping out for a moment or if He would be gone for sometime she looks down at the papers in hand.

Her scans, and the information she had been going through was complete and she new who's pass code had been used and who did, but the question lied in why? A bunch of mixed emotions ran through her. She though she cold trust everyone in TJY but now with that happend to her brother she felt almost betrayed.

This was to important to wait, if Carson was just getting some air than she would talk to him. Papers in hand Sapphire head up and out of TJY. The cool air felt nice on her skin as she welcomed it into her lungs. The air had gotten stail in TJY so a little change and freshness was nice.

Seeing Carson around the courne Shappire walks that was as well taking note he was on the phone. Waiting till he sliped it back into his pocked she steps around around the courner. A small smile on her face.

"You know smoking dosnt only kill you it kills the earth too."

Not dwelling to much on that fact Sapphire just gives a shake of her head as her looks becomes more stern.

Holding out the papers from Carson she speaks softly but with as much strangth in her voice as Misty, or Jamie proving under the layers there was more to her.

"I finished figureing everything out, and though it took my longer than I exspected I did in facet finish. The resalts are a little saprising and leave me a little confused."

Letting go of the papers while Carson look at them Sapphire rattles off everything that was there as if she had looked at them a million times over.

"It was Ty who opened the door. As to who came in, I dont know. Whoever it was, was cloaked and I couldnt see a face but ask him and I am sure he could tell you."

Though she had told who it was and Carson was smart enough to know she was upset about it a deeper look of trouble was in her eyes.

"What I dont understand though is why he used Katie's number to open the door let alone know what it was. I dont know if maybe he didnt know there was a camra and in using Katie's number he wouldnt be found out I dont know its just a little bit puzzling though."

Letting out a sigh Hope makes her way back to Scott but this time she walks around till she is in front of the table. Squating down Hope becomes eye level with Scott, a small smile on her face.

It had grown late but she didnt really fell tired it was strange how wanting to be with a friend could work like that.

"I am going to stay with you ok? I dont want you to feel alone. However I do need something to eat and I am going to run home and change into something more comfortable. I'd hate to eat dinner alone though so would you like me to bring u something and we could eat together? I could see about stoping by your apartment and getting Domino too."

"We cant always run away from our problems. Sometimes the best thing we can do it look them in the face and over come them. If we keep running we will never be happy."

Alice's eyes held so much of the emotions she felt, sometimes she didnt even relize when he was letting it all show. But it was there, and she new when the time was right she would always say it.

"Home, it can be the place that hold the most dispair, but it can also hold so much comfort. Its the place promises, relationships, and comfort can be found the most. Be lucky Kyle, you still have a family for that. Some people dont have that anymore because they lost the people closest to them, and though they have found joy nothing is quite like a family."

Sadness passed through Alice eyes only for a moment as her words might of hit a little close to home. But soon her mood changed again and at Kyle jumps up and starts dancing around all Alice can do it stair at him for a moment.

Finally relizing what had happend and seeing Kyle start to lose his balance Alice starts to laugh. Asoft low giggle at first that turned into a loud rawr. It was a funny sight and she couldnt help it.

Once Kyle hit the ground Alice got onto her hands and knees to go over to Kyle still laughing. Looking down on him she shakes her head.

"It looks like we had a party crasher, and now you crushed him."

Message

Carson gives a short nod to Hope. "I'll let you be in the same room. If there's any interference though, we'll have to figure something else out."

He glances around Hope to Scott's still form on the bed. He did feel so badly, traitor or not.

"If you think it's best to wait until morning, we can, but we shouldn't wait too much longer than that. He's willing at this point, and that's key. Things are kind of crazy around here right now... so if you want to leave and come back, that's fine. Otherwise you'll just be stuck in here twiddling your thumbs."

"Carson, Gage is back."

Carson looks to the phone where Wyatt's voice was coming from. "Thanks." He turns back to Hope. "I have to go. You decide what you're going to do and we'll go from there."

Spinning around, he heads quickly for the door, breaking into a jog down the hall to get back to the cubicle in time to see if anything had changed with Katie.

Switching places with Wyatt once more, Carson takes up his usual position. Wyatt is all too happy to give him the job back... his feelings for Katie had made the task heart-wrenching.

Carson stares at the screen, seeing Katie writhe under the pain she was in. She would rest, then move, rest, then move. It was obvious that she was so worn out that some kind of sleep or unconsciousness came and went, but when she was alert, the pain had to be unbearable.

From the angle of the camera, Carson could see the acid burns on her skin, and could see the bloody rags wrapped around her hand. Though the picture was somewhat fuzzy, Carson could pick out all of her cuts and bruises, and knew exactly if hands had been used, or brutal tools. He knew the marks all too well.

Seeing that nothing new was occurring, Carson stands again, calling Reese to his post. He couldn't take this any longer.

Slipping from the cubicle once more, this time, Carson heads for the exit. He needed to get some sleep, as ordered, but right now, sleep was the furthest thing from his mind.

As he hits the outdoors, he breathes in the cool night air. Though not cold, it had a sharp feel to it. It was a cruel night. He wanders around to the side of the building, leaning back against the bricks to pull his pack of cigarettes out of his pocket. His cell phone buzzes yet again, reminding him that he had at least one voicemail.

Sighing, he checks it. Hearing Heather's voice on the other end makes his blood boil. Her message was clear - she'd been trying to get a hold of him, but he'd been unreachable. Obviously he was hiding. She would try again, but he was to be warned, she wasn't playing games. If he was willing to admit, in writing, that he'd kidnapped Mackenzie, they might be able to settle outside of court.

Carson growls and stuffs his phone back in his pocket. If he admitted to the lie in writing, it was as good as him being convicted in court. Either way, it would follow him, and he wasn't willing to do that. Whether he wanted to see Mackenzie or not wasn't the point... he wasn't a liar or a kidnapper, and he wasn't going to admit to doing something he hadn't done.

Lighting up, he leans his head back and closes his eyes, letting the smoke seep out into the air.
God, I just want all of this to be over... Why is the night so long?


Scott can hear Carson and Hope talking, but he doesn't know what was decided. He felt like someone waiting to be put on trial, with no idea of the outcome. He also felt badly, wondering if this situation was taking away any necessary concentration from Katie's case. The last thing he wanted to do was interfere with that.


Shifting his head, Kyle lets it rest, his face to Alice's. Her words were so full of peace. She was so alive and so energetic and enthusiastic... but at the same time, there was an underlying peace. It was a peace Kyle recognized. It was a peace that could only come from being close to God. Her words spoke the truth in which she believed.

His lips curl into another smile. She liked making him smile, and it was oh so easy for her to do. "Most people feel they've known me for years," he quips. "That's why they get tired of me so quickly and kick me out."

Though he was being a tease, some of Alice's words did strike a chord.
"Remembering what God gave us, our talents... who we are...."
Who was Kyle? He turns his head again to watch the sky so Alice couldn't see the despair in his eyes. It wasn't fair that she tried so hard to keep him upbeat, and he continued to nosedive. Why couldn't he just be happy? God had brought him here... hadn't He? God had laid out this opportunity to travel with the team... hadn't He? Or... had it been Kyle's own way of escaping that which he feared?

He was happy on the road. He was seeing things he'd never seen, and doing things he'd never done. He was just as much an asset to the team as any member and with each session he got better, sharpening his skills. He knew how to make an audience smile, while proving a point too. The team maybe got tired of his goofiness sometimes, but at least they acted like they liked having him along and valued his presence on the team. He missed home... but he was learning to not let that stop him. Surely this was where he was supposed to be.

Feeling something tickling his leg, Kyle sits bolt upright, sending sand flying. Not being able to see anything in the dark, but feeling an insect crawling up the inside of his pantleg, he gives a shriek and jumps up. Hopping around, he tries to shake out whatever it was that had found a warm spot. "Get out, get out, get out!"

Spinning around too quickly, he loses his balance, toppling back into the sand. Lying still, he feels nothing... the creature was either squished or decided to leave.

Kyle rolls onto his back, several feet from Alice, and suddenly realizes just what an idiot he must have looked and sounded like. He starts to laugh. Covering his face with his hands, he just keeps laughing, unable to stop, and too sheepish to get up.