Figure

Looking down at her food for a moment, Katie feels strange.

What do you mean?

Glancing back up at Jason, she tries to contain some of her own emotions. "How do you figure?"

Playing fair

Jason's emotions give a little lurch, though it wasn't clear if it was negative or positive.

How can I even answer that now?

He takes another bite of food. "You're not playing fair."

Every day

"I told you I was going to ask you every day till I got an answer."

Katie takes a bite of her grab rangoon before giving Jason a smile.

Gonna quit?

Jason gives her a smirk. "Yes, I heard you. Do I have to tell you to quit asking me, or are you gonna quit on your own?"

I believe

Giving a laugh, Katie's eyes show she was sorry for making Jason choke.

"I believe I asked you to marry me!"

Choke

After prayer, Jason takes a bite of his sweet and sour chicken, but almost chokes as he receives Katie's question once again. "Dang." He clears his throat and takes a sip of water, his eyes watering. "You're gonna kill me if you don't cut that out. Now where were we?"

Marry me?

Smiling at Jason, Katie gives a light nod. "I do. It was too quiet without you and I like being different."

Looking up as the waitress brings the food, Katie thanks her. Waiting till she was out of earshot, she looks at Jason before eating. "Are you happy we can again too?"

Giving a grin, Katie cocks her head, catching Jason's eye.

Will you marry me?


Looking up from her drawing pad, Thirteen gives a smile to Ryder. "I'm doing good. Just trying to keep myself busy."

Setting the pad down, she stands, giving a stretch. "I'll be right back. Just need to run to the potty."

Newcomer

"...So..." Jason looks at Katie from across the table after joining her for lunch. Waiting for their Chinese food, he plays with an empty straw wrapper. "...you, uh... feel good we can talk again, eh?" A small grin quirks the corner of his mouth.


A weary traveler enters TJY, his bag still slung over his shoulder. Making his way between the cubicles, his eyes roam the main floor, his face tired and a bit pale. After meeting up with Reese, he's sent down the hall to the infirmary.

Ryder looks up from his desk, seeing the newcomer and wondering who he was, but he didn't catch his eye. Trying to get back to work, he glances to Thirteen in the extra chair. "How ya doing?"

Never turn

Good morning, you!

Katie laid on her back in bed. It was good to sleep in her own bed again and feel Jason's emotions.

Umm... yeah, lunch sounds good. I am going to just relax today. Then tomorrow back to work.

Finally getting out of bed, Katie throws her bathrobe on before making her way to the kitchen.

"Hmm, what smells so good?"


"You're family, Trent. I could never turn you away."

Giving his arm a pat, Rosetta smiles. "It's gonna be okay and will work out. Good luck again."

Turning, she makes her way back to the mess hall.

Lunch later

"Alright." Ryder nods to Thirteen. "Depending on whatever work Reese dishes out, I might not have to stay all day."


Morning, you.

Jason runs a quick comb through his hair, taking one last look in the mirror. Back in the hall, he whistles for Trooper, who eagerly joins him.

Heading to work. Wanna do lunch later?


Trent stops as Rosetta comes up to him, and he returns her hug. "Thanks... and yeah, I'll um... I'll let you know what happens." He wondered if he'd perhaps made a huge deal out of nothing, if the girl really wasn't Jasmine, but something in his gut told him he wasn't wrong.

He looks at Rosetta a moment, his eyes still so full. "Thanks for everything. I... even though I can say now that I worked for the Agency to keep Jasmine safe... I know I still hurt a lot of people. You've been a better sister than I ever could have asked for."

Good luck

Looking up at Ryder, Thirteen's eyes are bright. Receiving the kiss and returning one, her face turns red a little. Turning to the eggs, she mixes them as she things about the question.

"Well either way I have nothing to do so I guess I will come with."


Going to the window, Rosetta sees Trent making his way down the driveway. She turns back to the group for a moment. "I'll be right back." Exiting the dining hall, Rosetta trots up to Trent. "Hey, Trent, wait."

Coming up alongside him, she pulls her brother into a hug. "Good luck. Remember you're not alone. If you need anything, let me know, okay?"

Sunshine

A smile spreads on Ryder's face and he sets his spatula down so he can turn around. Glancing over his shoulder to make sure they were alone, he reaches out to run his hand down Thirteen's cheek. "Mornin', sunshine."

He leans down to plan a light kiss on her forehead, then holds out a spatula to her. "Here. Keep stirring the eggs - that way they won't burn."

He moves to the toaster after grabbing a couple slices of bread. "So... you coming to TJY with me today or staying here?"


Trent throws his bag over his shoulder and heads out of the bunkhouse, trudging down the driveway. The taxi would be here soon. He would be going to Nevada alone as he'd told Rosetta last night. He's spoken to no one else since then.

He glances to the dining hall. The others were up. But he would leave them be. He didn't want to have to repeat his story again or face everyone yet.

Breakfast smells

Feeling something land on her, Thirteen sits straight up straight, a bit startled. Looking down and seeing the cat, she runs her hand down through Henry's fur.

"You scared me there, guy!"

Hearing the dishes, Thirteen sniffs the air. It was a different smell, but it was good and made her tummy grumble.

Pulling the covers back, she stands and ambles to the kitchen. Coming up behind Ryder, she touches his shoulder. "Sure smells good in here."

A new morning...

The dishes in the kitchen rattle, and Ryder pauses, trying not to wake Thirteen or Katie. He moves about the stove, preparing the eggs and checking on the bacon. He didn't use to cook... but somehow, having someone to feed and teach had helped.

He was up a little earlier than planned, but he figured the women would be up soon, so he might as well have breakfast for them.

Henry wanders the hallway, having already checked on Katie. He headed into the living room and sniffed at the couch. Jumping up, he lands on Thirteen, checking out the company again.

Changed

Looking at her brother, Rosetta gives a nod. She could scold him more, reprimand him for what he did, but it was the past now and there was no point. He wanted to make it right and that was good.

"Trent, that alone shows you have changed. I am proud of you."

Thinking again for a long moment, Rosetta knows this will be hard for Trent. "I can come with you so you're not alone."

I have to

Trent looks at Rosetta for a long moment before he shakes his head. "No." He purses his lips then looks back to the horse. "I think we had feelings for each other... but it wasn't very deep. We wanted what we wanted and we didn't care about consequences. When she found out she was pregnant, she was braver than anything... despite the wrath of her family. I told her I'd take care of her... so... I can't tell what I would have done. But... after I saw my baby girl... I... I doubt I could have stayed away."

He shrugs, trying not to relive the hurt he'd buried so long ago. "It was too late. But I'm not making that mistake again. I'm going to confirm the girl is Jasmin and then I'll... I'll..." His voice trails off. He had no idea what he was doing. "But I have to."

Did you love her?

Rosetta continues to stand, stunned. She had another niece.

Seeing the look on Trent's face, Rosetta lets go of her own confusion. Stepping up closer to Trent, she lays a hand on his shoulder. "You know you're not alone and you have family to help you, Trent."

Leaning against the fence with him, she lets out a sigh. "I am sorry for your loss. It had to be hard. Did you love her?"

Rosetta looks to her brother with question, wanting to learn more about what she had missed.

Punishment

"No, I can't try." Trent groans and throws himself against the fence, his arms over the top rail. A startled horse looks at him quickly, sniffing his hand. He scratches its cheek, fighting his emotions. "I don't... it's... it was a long time ago."

Glancing over his shoulder, he catches his sister's eye. "You know, I was always the one in trouble when it came to the Hensons and Pents. Oh, Sparky got in a few scrapes, but me, I was the one who couldn't say no. The rest of you were so good at staying on track... you always made the right choices... you all were always the ones with pure motives and would never make the stupid moves I did."

He sighs deeply, finally at a point where he was willing to talk about it. "Years ago, I had a woman I was seeing. None of you knew about her because... well... would you like to have come back to the gang and introduced the girl you were sleeping around with?" He shakes his head. "I was too stupid to say no to myself or to Grace, and too smart to let the rest of you know about it." Something close to a smile quirks the corner of his mouth. "Shocked?"

Pausing a moment, he looks back to the horse, stroking its face again. "Wasn't too long before Grace was gonna have the baby. But I couldn't say anything... I couldn't just walk in and say, 'Hey, guys, I'm a daddy. By the way, no, I'm not married to the mother.' That would have gone really well." The sarcasm is evident in his voice.

"None of you would have approved. As you shouldn't have. It was me at fault, not anybody else. I knew I'd get a talking to from you, Mick, Wes... anybody with brains." Trent's eyes are filled with a sadness. "I was the one with lower standards... I knew I'd never make it into the circle with the rest of you."

Taking a deep breath, it's several long moments before he goes on. "So... Jasmine was born." His face almost smiles. "It was a down time with the gang, so I was able to be there. She was the prettiest baby..." He chuckles. "Blue eyes and a head of Pent red hair. And I got to hold her." Trent's mind is so far away as he speaks.

"It wasn't long enough. She was only a month or two old and Grace was in a car accident. The Agency had instigated the accident, planning to take both hostage. But Grace died instead. They took Jasmine... and they blackmailed me."

Now that he was spilling all the details, he didn't have much choice but to just keep going. Tears fill his eyes and he looks away, trying to maintain composure. "I didn't want to help the Agency... but they said I'd never see Jasmine again. I still couldn't tell you guys about it so... I did what they wanted... for years. That's... that's why I was involved with them in the first place. I never wanted to hurt my family, least of all you. I tried to get out once, but they said they'd kill Jasmine. One more year, they said, then I could take her and go. But..."

Trent shrugs lamely. "I eventually went to prison instead. Word got to me that Jasmine had died. She would have been about twelve. They said she got sick. So... I gave up. I hadn't seen her since she was a baby - they let me have a picture once when she was about six. But that's all I ever had. And then... when it was all over and I came here... there was no point in bringing all this up. I'd still made bad decisions... first, I shouldn't have been involved like that with Grace. Second, I shouldn't have let the Agency pull me in. I figured living with my secrets was my punishment."

Talk to me

Looking to Mick and then her brother, Rosetta was still confused. "I..."

Her head felt like it was spinning beyond control. She had to figure out what was going on. "Okay, I'll see if I can talk to him." Taking Micks' arm as she passes by, Rosetta gives him the best smile she can. "I'll be okay. Watch BJ. I'll be back."

Running to catch up with Trent, she just walks beside him for a moment, finally speaking. "Trent, you can always talk to me. I want to trust and believe you but it's hard when you won't talk to me. Please, can you try?"

Safety of our family

Rosetta's questions hang in the air, all eyes on Trent. He stares at all of them, then locks eyes with Rosetta. "I... it just... I couldn't..." His voice cracks as another tear appears. Putting his hands to his head, he rakes his fingers through his hair before spinning around with a growl. "I just... I can't do this."

Eric's eyes are as wide as saucers as Trent walks away. 'What... just... happened? His daughter?!"

Mick rolls his eyes, keeping his attention on Rosetta. "I have no idea what this is about, but if anyone can get it out of him, it's you. For the safety of our family, we need to know."

The truth

It was the cold hard truth and it pained Sapphire to have to tell Gage. The look in his eyes held nothing but a longing as well.

"No, Gage, they aren't coming for you. The Agency did to you what they do best to everyone... lie."

Sapphire tried her best to show some compassion, but it was hard when the truth was harsh. "I know you don't know me, but I'd like to be your friend and when you need someone, you can call me."

Looking to the door, Sapphire knew she should be going, but for a strange reason, she didn't want to. "Would you like something to eat or drink?"


Just watching Thirteen for a long moment after Jason and Ryder went into the other room, Katie almost studies her before turning away, trying not to stare.

Looking up at Katie, Thirteen could feel her eyes on her, even if they weren't now. "I know, it's strange for me too, looking at myself."

Katie gives a small chuckle. But before she can say anything more, Jason returns. Returning his hug, Katie felt the warmth and felt safe.

Awww... you have to go? Okay, I guess I can let you go.


As Ryder moves next to her again, Thirteen brushes his hand, reaching for another dish. "A movie sounds good but I don't know any good ones so I hope you do!" She gives a smile to Ryder.


Looking at Trent for a long moment, Rosetta is lost for words. Did she really just hear what she thought she did. "Trent, I... when... how... I mean why didn't you say something sooner?"

Daughter

Gage's eyes follow Sapphire as she paces then squats down in front of him. In his gaze was a stare like looking into a black hole. It held so much emptiness, yet yearned for existence. He studies her own gaze as if searching for that existence in the words she spoke. She had compassion... mercy... grace.

"You're different." His speech was quiet, almost timid. He remained sitting, just looking at her. He had supplied the Elite with information, giving in to the interrogations these past weeks. But he hadn't expressed his feelings in the least... until now. Disappointment and hurt showed in his eyes.

"They always said they were my family. They always said that I was strong... that I was moving up in the ranks. They always said that we were working for a cause... that what we did would preserve us because we were rebelling against the system. They always said they would come get me if I was in trouble."

His eyes seem to almost glaze over. He'd been here over a month. Alec had almost been killed by their own. "It was... all a lie, wasn't it?"


Ryder stands back and watches Thirteen for a moment, seeing how she interacted with Katie and Jason. He could see she was a bit leery, but he was proud of her. "Well, we got leftovers for tomorrow then," he muses, going to help Thirteen clean up.

Jason gives Katie a little nod.
Be right back.
Heading into the kitchen himself, he pulls Ryder aside, out of earshot of Katie and Thirteen, also not letting his emotions reveal the content of the quiet conversation. "So... can I trust you?"

Ryder raises his eyebrows. "With what?"

"Keeping an eye on Katie without trying anything?"

Ryder's eyes roll. "I told you before - we're just friends. There's nothing there, mate."

"I just-"

"Look... you have my word. I made a mistake and I already apologized. I'll watch her for you - you've got nothing to worry about."

Jason relaxes just a little, and he nods. "Okay."

"You know..." Ryder cocks his head. "Kat's pretty lucky to have a bloke like you to love her enough not to want other guys hitting on her." He gives Jason's shoulder a pat before going back into the kitchen. "No worries... no worries."

Jason makes his way back over to Katie, pulling her into a hug.
I gotta get home. You be okay?

Ryder sidles up to Thirteen to help wash the dishes. "What do you say to a movie before bed?"


Being broken up by Rosetta, the fists stop, but the glares remain. Eyes fall to the ground as they receive her rebuke. Their shoulders drop with guilt. Eric runs his tongue over his bloody lip while Trent feels the side of his face. Neither had too much damage, but it was obvious that both had pulled some good moves.

Eric finally lifts his gaze to see Rosetta, while Mick stood behind her, his arms crossed. "Trent's holding out on us," Eric accuses. "I was just tired of all the secrecy games."

"It's none of your business," Trent counters.

"It is when it's my family!" Eric can feel the pain again from seeing the worry in Rosetta's eyes. "I just want to know the truth."

"I don't know anything about Jeff!" Trent exclaims. "Why won't you believe me?"

"Maybe it has something to do with all the lies you've told before."

"Guys, cut it out," Mick intervenes. "Now look, we're all uptight, but Rosetta is right. You shouldn't be fighting." He reaches out to give Rosetta's shoulder a squeeze. "Now what is this really about? Eric, you first."

Eric scowls, but controls his temper. "Trent knows something about that Agency girl and I think he knows about Jeff too."

"Evidence?"

"No."

"Trent?"

Trent eyes his brother, sister and Mick. "I don't know anything about Jeff, and that's the truth."

"What about the girl?" Mick presses.

"So I know her name. So what?"

Eric pounces again. "So why won't you explain? Why are you sneaking off?"

"I'm not."

"You are too! We have a right to know what's going on. You've betrayed us too many times."

Surprisingly, tears well up in Trent's eyes. "Just let it go."

"No."

Trent looks to Rosetta. "Please... don't make me dig this up."

"Dig what up?" Eric persists. "Does this girl know something about you? Something that could expose you?"

"No!"

"Then what?!"

Trent's voice wavers. "Just leave it alone, please."

Mick grits his teeth, unsure what to do. If Trent had important information, then Eric was right. Trent needed to tell them. "No more secrets," he states firmly. "What's the girl's significance, Trent?"

Trent swallows hard as a tear runs down his rough face. "She... she's my daughter."

A stunned silence follows.

Insain

Shaking her head Katie cant help the laugh the escapes her lips at Ryder's welcome. It was good to be home and be around her friends once again.

"Have to addmit Ryder if you were anyone else I would pop ya one. Its good to be home."

Walking in farther Katie sets the small bag down that had the items people had given her. Giving a small stretch she was still a little sore but it wasnt much anymore.

Giving a nod to Ryder Katie agrees. Laura's room would be empty soon and she didnt need it for anything. Why let it go to wast. Plus the extra company would be nice.

"Yeah that's ok. I don't mind at all. As long as everything goes smoothly."

Making her way to the kitchen Katie walks slow as to not startled Thirteen at all.

"Hi Thirteen!"

Hearing Jason and Katie enter the house Thirteen is startled but regains her composure quickly. Turning she gives a smile to Katie. It felt strange almost looking at herself, why did she look so much like this girl?

"Welcome Home!"

Takin a few steps back to the sink Thirteen motions to the dishes.

"We were just cleaning up the mess from dinner we made. Ryder was showing me how to cook."

Seeing Jason standing behind Katie Thirteen shifts just a little still not use to large groups but trying her best to handle it.

"Are you guys hungry we have plenty of left overs!"

Smiling at Thirteen Katie shakes her head slightly.

"No thank you, we already had something to eat. But the offer was nice of you."

Looking down as something brushed her leg a smile forms on Katie's face. The black and white furball wanted his attachen too.

Bending down to pick Henry up Katie rubs her face aganst his soft fur as he purrs in his arms.

"Hey there big guy. I heard you had some excitement while I was gone."

"I wouldn't have minded much if you had hit your head sooner. Than I could of talked to you more and sooner."

Smiling at Gage Sapphire enters the room more and does a quick once over making sure everything was ok.

She new Gage was differnt from Thirteen but still there was so much in life he had missed out on she felt bad.

"Well now you have your freedome to an exstent. As for what else they are going to do I am not sure but I know it wont be anything bad."

Leaning aganst the wall Sapphire cross her arms in front of her as she thinks for a long moment. Reese could be a little hard to understand sometimes but he really was a fair guy.

"You deserve a life and a choise to make your own distions. Not because you have to but because you want to. We want to give you a fighting chanse."

Sapphire pushes off the wall and starts to pase just a little. It wasnt a nervouse walk but just one she did when she was thinking. Even when working she often did it, but to everyone else it looked like she was getting water or something of that nature.

"Your not an animle to be chaged but a man to be taught and shown how much laughter, life, love and hope there is out there."

Flashing another smile Sapphire squats down in front of Gage and cocks her head to look him in the eye.

"It will be a hard road but dont look at us as your capters but your friends and teachers as long as your willing to learn."

Looking out the window at the mention of a fight Rosetta lets out a long frustrated sigh before heading to the door herself.

It had been a long time since her brothers had gotten into it but still non the less she had though that maybe they had grown up and put the petty stuff behind them. But she was wrong.

Exiting the house and making her way twords them Rosetta steps in the middle of both her brothers holding her hands out to the side to stop them.

"ENOUGH both of you!"

Looking from one brother to the next the pain could be seen in her eyes, and her tone of voice held the same as it cracked here and there.

"Have you both gone insain and learned nothing after all these years? I have struggled to keep this family alive the best I can and all you two can do it fight. Your brothers for goodness sake, you shouldnt be beating the snot out of eachother."

Letting her arms fall to the sides Rosetta shakes her head. She didnt know the reason for the fight, but still they shouldnt be acting like two year olds.

"You are both grown men, an as such you should be acting like it. Setting a good example for BJ and the other kids at the ranch. Not to mention it kills me to see you both fight."

Rosetta looks from on brother to the next as the tears form in her eyes.

"What do you both have to say for yourselfs?"

Fistfight

Looking into Thirteen's eyes, Ryder knew that it was a woman's heart that spoke, not just a little girl's dreams. He didn't know if this would work between them. He didn't know how long it would last, or if they were really meant to be more than friends. But he was lonely... and she was filling a hole in his life, as he was hers.

A light chuckle escapes. "Yes, now you know how to cook something. By the time I'm through with you, you'll know how to cook a lot more, too."

The sound of the front door startles him, and he leaves the kitchen quickly, his guard up.

"Anybody home?" Jason calls.

Ryder breathes a sigh of relief when he sees it's just Jason and Katie. "Ahh, the invalid has returned!" He grins and winks at Katie. "Welcome home."

Jason peers around the corner, seeing a form in the kitchen. "Company?"

"Uh, yeah. Thirteen is gonna be staying here for a little while... you know, get her out and about from TJY." Ryder looks to Katie. "Figured she could have the other room once Laura is all out... if that's okay with you."

"Not ready to be on her own yet, huh?" Jason inquires.

Ryder shakes his head. "Not yet... she will be. But not yet." He turns his attention to the kitchen. "Hey, Thirteen... Katie's here..."


Gage is still very quiet as he's uncuffed, then led away from Sapphire's cubicle. He doesn't say a word as he's allowed to clean up and change clothes. He'd been allowed some of these things before... it wasn't as though he'd been kept in a dungeon the last month - not like at the Agency when they kept prisoners. He'd been allowed to stay clean and change clothes here... but tonight... something was different. He was in a new room... a room with a bed instead of a narrow cot. A room with carpet instead of a hard tiled floor. A room that was warm.

Sitting down on the bed, Gage sinks down in the mattress a little. His jeans were a little baggy, but the t-shirt fit. He had a bit of a headache, but not bad. Looking up at Sapphire, still he had been silent. This place confused him. He had been trained to fight them - to retaliate. He had been trained to hate these people. But those same commanders who had trained him, had ordered Alec's death. Would they do the same with Gage? If so, then which place was really safer? He didn't know.

Searching Sapphire's eyes for a moment, his lips draw into something related to a smile. "Maybe I... should have hit my head sooner." He swallows hard. "What... what are they gonna do to me now?"


Eric watches Rosetta walk away, his eyes dark and pensive. Finally left alone, he's still sitting in the dim dining hall. Eventually, he rises, wincing just a little. Years on the road hadn't done his back any good. He stretches and sighs, ambling out into the evening air. Whenever he was home, he had a place in one of the bunks, but he went a different direction tonight. Tonight, he headed for the bunkhouse that had a light on.

Hearing a knock at the door, Trent pauses, shirts in hand. Setting them inside his bag, he then goes to see who's there. "Eric?"

His brother nods from his place on the small porch. "Got a minute?"

"Um... sure." Trent steps aside to let Eric in.

Eric enters the bunk and looks at the duffel bag suspiciously. "Going somewhere?"

"Nevada."

"Oh, I see." Eric turns around, hands on hips. "Emergency?"

"Kind of." Trent squints one eye. "What do you want?"

"Why the sudden move after hearing about that girl?"

Trent blinks. "I don't know what you're talking about."

"Don't give me that." Eric's eyes have gained an angry glint. "You got secrets, Trent. And I'm tired of it."

"Look, this is none of your business."

"It is when it involves my family. Jeff has disappeared, our niece almost died, now this girl shows up and you're out on the next flight. I want to know what you know that the rest of us don't."

"I don't know what-"

"Bull crap!" Eric's eyes blaze. "I'm tired of all the secrets! This family has been torn apart time and time again by secrets! When is it going to end?" Not receiving a response, he continues. "Where is Jeff"

"How should I know?"

"I think you do."

Trent throws up his arms. "I know as much as everybody else! Last I knew, we asked Reese about a month ago what was happening, and we got no answers and he said not to ask again. Why would I know more than that?"

"Because you've always been the one with hidden motives."

"So you think I'm still with the Agency or what?"

"Maybe."

"Eric!" Trent shakes his head. "If you just came to accuse me, then you can leave now."

"I just want answers!"

"I don't have any!"

"Then why are you leaving?! Where is our brother, and who is the girl?!"

"Get out!" Trent points to the door, his own temper flaring. "Now."

"Not until I have answers."

"Fine then." Trent moves to grab Eric by the shoulder, manhandling him out the door. Eric resists, and once he's out on the porch, he has a firm grip on Trent's arm, bringing him down off the porch with him.

"Cut it out!" Trent barks.

"Not until you tell me the truth!" Eric's jaw is suddenly hit with excruciating pain. Staggering backward, it takes him a moment to realize that he'd just been struck by Trent's fist. Spitting out some blood, he glares at his brother. "So that's the way it is, huh?"

Trent grits his teeth, the churning in his stomach proving how badly he felt. "I... I'm sorry."

"Sorry don't cut it anymore, Trent."


Mick thinks he hears loud voices, and ambles to the window. What he saw made his eyes widen. "Rosetta, we got a fight out here." He makes a beeline for the door, glad that BJ was already asleep in bed. The boy didn't need to see Eric and Trent throwing fists at each other like they were now.

One thing

Looking up at Ryder, Thirteen nods. This was all so different and maybe a little scary but she knew it would be ok.

"I may not understand everything, but i know this is what I want. The way you make me feel, Ryder, I know I wouldn't want to feel that with anyone else."

Giving another bright smile, Thirteen nods her head. She knew at times it might be rough, but she was ready. "Hey, now at least I can cook you one thing."

She didn't know who she was, where she came from, or anything else about her past, but maybe she didn't have to, to be able to move on.

Really?

Ryder shakes his head, but finally just gives in. Drawing Thirteen into a strong hug, he holds her close and kisses the top of her head. "I didn't plan on this, ya know," he mumbles into her hair. For over a month, he had been with Thirteen day-in and day-out. He had focused on taking care of her and teaching her. But while spending so much time with her, how could he not have fallen for her bright eyes and pure heart? That would be asking too much of a man.

He lets out a deep breath and takes a step back to see Thirteen's face. "You're gonna make it, ya know that?"

He cocks his head and smiles. "And I'll be here for you, even if it's against the rules. Is this what you really want?" He knew that all of this was very new and probably exciting to Thirteen, but he didn't want her misinterpreting her feelings this early in the game, even if this is what he wanted.

Secret

Giving a smile, Thirteen rests her head against Ryder's, juts taking in the emotions and words.

"I guess for now, it can be our little secret."

She gives another smile as she lets out a sigh. For the first time, she felt happy and ready to face anything because she didn't have to face it alone.

Now what

Letting Thirteen return, Ryder can't help a smile as he returns the kiss again. Her fingers in his hair send a chill down his spine. He lets the exchange continue for several moments until he finally pulls away. Looking into her eyes, he bites his lip. "That's how it's done," he whispers.

He lets his hands run down her arms until he can lock his fingers with hers. "Now what, hmm? I'm supposed to be taking care of you, not dating you."

Passion

Feeling Ryder's lips against hers, Thirteen feels a whole new wave of emotions. The butterflies came faster and her head spun, but it was a good feeling and she didn't want it to end.

Bringing her hands to Ryder's back, she shakes just a little as her knees almost felt weak. Pulling away a little, Thirteen smiles as she whispers and bites her lower lip. "That was better than the books."

Going in close again, her lips press against Ryder's again and her hand runs through his hair, just letting the new passion run free.

The right way

Ryder allows Thirteen to come closer, though is a bit surprised by her action. Just looking at her as she backs away again, a soft chuckle escapes. "That's where we are, huh?"

His hand comes up to brush her cheek. He gives her a quick wink. "Then I think I better show you the right way to do this."

Pulling her close, he cocks his head to bring his face nearer to hers. He moves slowly, not to startle her, and making sure he didn't scare her.

Pressing his lips to hers, he doesn't let go right away. His hand moves up to run through her hair as his kiss lingers, softly then a little firmer, but not moving any faster than Thirteen would allow.

Leaves us here

Thinking for a long moment, Thirteen can feel herself move a little closer to Ryder.

Bringing her hand to his face, she runs her thumb over his cheek. "I think that leaves us here." Coming even closer, she brushes her lips against his before pulling away a little, hoping what she did was okay.

Supposed to

"I'm... supposed to... take care of you." Ryder's hands give her shoulders a gentle squeeze. For now, he was finished treating Thirteen like a little kid. Maybe she hadn't been taught much, but she was smart, and she was an adult. "So... where does that leave us?"

You are

Bringing her own arms to Ryder's, Thirteen continues to look at him dead in the eye. Giving a gulp, her heart races as the butterflies were back.

"You are, Ryder. From the moment you said hi to me."

Who

Ryder sets down his towel, then reaches out to take Thirteen by the shoulders. Another sigh comes. He didn't know what he was even doing. "Who's your prince?

Prince

Thirteen looks up at Ryder, searching his eyes for a long woman. "The woman found her prince who rescued her from her silent world." She bites her lip, wondering if that sounded stupid.

Girl or woman?

Ryder stops what he's doing, staring at the dishwater. He swallows hard. Finally he turns around to face Thirteen and look her in the eye.

"Is it the little girl who wants to keep the butterflies? Or the woman who wants to find her prince?"

Role

Picking at the table lines, Thirteen is quiet before looking at Ryder again. Her look was so innocent yet her words were strong as her own heart pounded.

Standing, Thirteen goes to help Ryder with the dishes. She brushes his arm then looks up at him. "Can you stop your role so I can keep the butterflies?"

Before she even knew it, the words had slipped out and her cheeks were red again. Her own heart was pounding in her ears.

Grow up

Ryder's heart pumps just a bit harder, though he tries to stop it. He didn't even really know what his problem was. "Well, Thirteen, like... I understand what you're saying, but... we have to be careful, you know?" He sounded so stupid.

Giving up, he stands to take his plate to the sink. But he feels guilty for not finishing the conversation. Talking again, his concentration stays on cleaning his plate. "People like w... like who we are... we can't just... I mean... my role is to get you back on your feet, not give you butterflies."

He hates his own words, but Thirteen had to grow up sometime. Was he talking to a little girl, or a grown woman?

Together

Once again, Thirteen can feel her face turn red again. Her feelings - what did they mean? Such a simple question with a hard answer.

"I don't know what they mean yet but I am not scared of them." Her words seem so strong. "You're not holding me back when I want you here. The things I want to see I want to be with you. So we can enjoy them together."

What do you think?

"But what if I am?" Ryder shakes his head. "I'm the only person you spend time with. And... and if I don't help you see other people, then... I'm holding you back."

He takes a deep breath, wishing that the butterflies in his own stomach would stop. "If you're so sure your feelings mean something then... what do you think they mean?"

Can't hide

Looking at Ryder, Thirteen quirks an eyebrow. "I don't believe that. I know they mean something and I will figure it out."

Giving another little laugh, she takes a bit of food, quiet for a second. "You're not holding me back from anything.


Smiling as Jason leaves, Katie gives a sly grin.

You can run, but you can't hide.

Shaking her head, she takes out a napkin and just doodles for a second until she hears Carson's voice and looks up to see Jason coming back. "Control him... psh... good luck with that."

Giving a wink as Jason comes back, Katie straightens.

I believe we were talking about...

She thinks for a moment. Maybe for now, a subject change would be good.

Everything I missed while I was gone.

Feelings

Jason shifts in his seat before looking over his shoulder to the counter. "I'm gonna go get a refill. Be right back."

Sliding from the booth, he goes up to Carson at the counter.

Carson is wiping off the counter and he gives Jason a wry grin. "Having fun?"

Jason chuckles. "Yeah."

"You two getting along then?"

"Of course. Why?"

Carson only smiles. "You love her, don't you?"

Jason pauses, handing Carson his empty glass. "Yeah... yeah, I do."

Carson takes the glass to fill it up, glancing in his friend's direction. "Good."

Jason's expression turns a bit sly. "And you and Misty?"

"Hey now, don't go turning the table."

"You wish. Now come on. I fessed up. It's your turn."

Carson hands him his pop. "Misty's the most important person in my life."

"How come you haven't married her?"

"What?!"

Jason laughs. "You heard me. Is it 'cause you don't love her enough?"

"I didn't say that!"

"Is it..." Jason's voice is a little more serious. "...because she's not accepted Jesus?"

Carson stops his cleaning for a moment. "Oh... that's part of it."

"But you do love her."

"Doesn't it look like it?"

"But can you say it?"

"Of course I can!"

"Then say it!"

Carson smirks. "Alright, Hotshot, fine. I l... l..."

Jason starts to snicker.

"Oh, shut up." Carson swings a towel at him.

Jason ducks, laughing. "Okay, okay, I'm gone!" He takes his drink back to the table.

Carson yells to Katie. "Hey, Kat, control that boyfriend of yours before I throw him out!"

Still laughing, Jason sits down and grins at Katie. "Where were we?"


Ryder twists his fork in his food, contemplating Thirteen's question. "Then... that's up to you, I guess. But... I don't want to hold you back from finding another g-... I mean... finding other friends. Your feelings... I mean... they don't necessarily mean anything, ya know?"

But what if

Looking down at her food for a moment, Katie can't help the small feeling of being let down with Jason's answer.

"Then I will continue to ask. I'm letting this one go."

Giving Jason a smile, Katie's disappointment fades. There was still hope and she would hold on to that.


Still looking at Ryder, Thirteen studies him. For a moment, she doesn't even know why he was saying sorry again.

"You can stop saying sorry now. I don't think you did anything wrong."

Taking a sip of water, she holds a confused look on her face for a moment. "But what if I don't want to feel this way about anyone else?

Too soon

Ryder can suddenly feel some heat rise to his face, and he closes his eyes for just a moment before looking back up at Thirteen.

"I'm sorry," he apologizes quietly. "Those... those feelings you have... they're my fault." He tries to smile, his lips pursed together. "I'm... not the only one you can feel that way with. I mean..."

A little laugh escapes and he leans back, shaking his head. A real smile surfaces. "There's so much you've missed out on without having a real mom around. I don't know how to help you with all this kind of stuff."


"Mmm." Jason drops his gaze, desperately trying to control his emotions, so Katie doesn't come to any wrong conclusions. He takes a slow sip of his pop.

Too soon, Babe. Too soon.

Close to death

Looking at her plate, Thirteen moves her food around for a moment before looking up at Ryder. "The world is full of heartache and pain. Why would I bother putting myself through it?"

Thirteen is quiet again for a moment. This stuff was confusing and she wasn't even sure how to talk about this.

"I like how I feel around you. Even if I don't understand why my heart races and why it feels like something is fluttering in it, but I know it's a feeling I like."

Thirteen looks down at her plate again as her cheeks turn red. She felt embarrassed but why, she wasn't sure.


Looking up as Reese walks away, Sapphire can't help but be a bit surprised. She had hoped Reese would let Gage go, but she didn't think he really would.

Turning back to Gage, Sapphire gives a nod then goes to her phone. "Dalton, can you set up a cam in the extra room please? Yeah, thanks."

Hanging up the phone, she waits for Hal to uncuff Gage before helping him up. "Come on, lets get you cleaned up and settled." She offers Gage a friendly and inviting smile. "I think we have some clean clothes for you too. They might be big but will work for now."

Leading the way, Sapphire weaves in and out of cubicles before coming to the extra room. "No more cell. You get to stay in a more comfortable place now."


Giving a smile, Katie doesn't let it bother her that Jason laughed. She was sure that she sounded a little crazy.

Coming so close to death, I guess I just realized life is too short to just stand waiting.

Taking a sip of her water, Katie looks back up at Jason and gives a small laugh. "I guess I just didn't want to wait any longer."

Uncuffed

Rick examines Gage's head while Sapphire talks. "Mm-hmm..." He sighs and nods. "Don't think it's any more than a bump on the head. "Hal?"

"Yeah?"

"Go get permission from Reese to release Gage within premises."

"What? But-"

"Would you please just go ask him?"

"Ask him what?"

All eyes raise at Reese's voice. Reese folds his arms. "What happened here?"

Hal is quick to explain. "We tripped. Gage fell and hit his head. Rick wants him released on premises."

Reese sighs deeply. He'd just been through this with Thirteen. he felt so stuck. He really didn't like it any better than anybody else. Perhaps he seemed rough and uncaring sometimes, but he didn't mean to. He just felt as though he was between a rock and a hard place, and wanted to make the best decisions. The whole thing with Thirteen really did bother him, even if he'd given Ryder a bad time. It pained him to think of the young woman raised by the Agency. Clearly she was intelligent but had been severely held back. And now Gage. He was different. The young man obviously had been involved in plenty of illegal activities and had admitted to assisting with tortures and killings, trained for Agency combat. Yet he'd also been sheltered from the real world.

"Reese?"

He snaps back to attention at Rick's voice. "Um, yeah. Um... Hal, uncuff him and... Sapphire, take him to the spare room. Have Dalton keep a security watch on the room and... as long as Gage sticks around he can stay in there for the time being. Carry on."

Turning, Reese walks away, leaving the others with surprise on their faces.

Gage blinks at Sapphire, almost as if he needed help in knowing what to do. No more cell?


Before Jason can help it, a laugh escapes. "What is with you lately, Kat? Hmm?" He shakes his head in amusement whiel taking another sip of his pop.

I know you went through a lot and it probably got you thinking about a whole bunch of stuff, but...

He leans back in his seat, his eyes still locked with Katie's. "Isn't the question supposed to be one the man asks and not the other way around?"


Ryder takes a few moments before responding to Thirteen. finally he sighs, pausing his meal. "What's wrong, kiddo, huh? I know this stuff might be hard to understand but... meeting other people... making other friends... it's part of living life to the fullest."

He can see something in her eye, and knows that something is different. Was it the topic? Or was it him?

Dented

Leaving the kitchen and scaning the room Rosetta makes sure there is no more dishes that needed to be done. Seeing Eric sitting at the table still Rosetta gives a small nod and goes over to him offering to take his coffee cup.

"Its good to have you home again. Just feels a little more complete. Now if I can only get you all here at once."

Giving a smile Rosetta turns to head back to the kitchen. She missed her brothers, and the closeness of them always being there they once had after finding each other. But part of getting older was sometimes going your own way as well and at least she got to see them sometimes.

But new form of melloncly come as Rosetta washs the last cup. She missed Jeff something horrable. He was a big boy and could take care of himself but she still missed him and wished she new where he was and if he was ok. A twins sixth sence told her something was wrong, but she didnt dair ask or she would just get the same information as she did before. Nothing.

Smiling at Jason Katie takes a small bit of her food. It never tasted better and it almost felt like her tastbuds were singing.

Don't worry I'll let you know if I need anything. Seeing as its easyer to tell u than anyone else.

Katie cant help the small grin that formed as silence rules for just a little while as they both enjoyed there food.

Finally Kaite puts her napkin down and her fork. She hadnt eaten much but it was more than she thought. Her tummy just couldnt handle anything more at the moment.

Looking up at Jason the smile is still on her face, as her eyes hold a searousness to them. In a strong voice she asks.

"Jason, will you marry me?"

Looking back across the table Thirteen can tell the change in Ryder's tone once again, and she new that meeting new people would be important but she didnt really understand why.

"But when do I need other friends when I have one I like spending time with already?"

Looking down at the food for a moment Thirteen can feel her cheeks turning red.

"I know I need other friends...I just...I.."

Stoping herself Thirteen picks up her fork and knife. Maybe somethings shouldnt be said. Still the feeling lingered that maybe she had done something wrong and now Ryder was being carfel around her.

Taking a bit of her food Thirteen continues to just look at her plate forcing a smile to come forth. If Ryder was upset she should just act like herself and trying to be normal.

"This tasts really good."

Looking at Gage Sapphire's own look showed one of compation for him. She wanted to help him, and she wanted to teach him. She wasnt sure why but it was just a feeling.

About to say more Sapphire stops and stands up straght ass Rick and Hal return. Looking to Rick Sapphire nods pointing to the floor and than Gage's head.

"He fell there and hit his head pretty hard. I think he dented my floor."

Sapphire gives a small chuckle.

"He has a nice bump on his head but there is no blood and I didnt feel a crack. He was getting pretty dizzy so I thoughh he might have a concution and I would hate for him to fall asleep in the cell and not wake up."

Sapphire looks to Gage and than back to Rick again.

"He also has a nice gash on his wrist but its nothing to bad and I cleaned it, and wrapped it up already, but I think maybe you guys should take the cuffs off so they dont irrotate it. I doubt he would run."

Discover

"Maybe..." Mick rests his chin on Rosetta's shoulder for a moment before sighing and pulling away. "I'm gonna go get the kid and put him to bed. See you back at the house." Another kiss to the head and he's off to the adjoining room where there is monstrous growling followed by a fit of giggles before BJ disappears out of the dining hall, slung over Mick's shoulder like a sack of potatoes.

Eric sits in the corner, alone, a small grin appearing as he watches Mick and BJ leave. Then his eyes fall back to his empty cup of coffee. It had been empty for a while now, but he had yet to take it to the kitchen. A sigh comes... he'd been just within earshot of Mick's short conversation with Rosetta. And it made him wonder. Who had his brother become all these years? And what was his motive for leaving so suddenly? Secrets... again.


Ryder gives a little laugh, but pauses for some reason before answering Thirteen. "Yeah... yeah I'll be around. We'll have to decide where you'll be when I have to go to work."

He stops again as the timer dings, and he prepares their dishes for supper. Bringing them to the table, he makes sure they have all they need, then sits down across from her. But he doesn't dig in right away. "You need to learn to spend yoru time.... with... other people too, ya know? I mean... I can't be the only person you ever interact with." He seems to force a smile and a wink. "Friends... they're a part of life you need to discover."


Gage lets Sapphire finished and glances up at her with a look in his eye almost undescribable. It was confused... sad... humliated... pensive. "I don't... understand."

Too soon, Hal is back with Rick and they are interrupted.

Rick moves close and glances to Sapphire. "Where did he fall?"

Still

Turning to see Mick Rosetta held a look of confusion for her brothers actions. The vagueness of the situation was strange and a little frustrating.

"Maybe when he was mixed up in the Agency he new her?"

For a moment Rosetta is quiet thinking for a long moment.

"If Trent can help this girl remember her past maybe than she can move on with her new life."

Trying to fallow and keep up with Ryder in the kitchen Thirteen does her best to keep notes in her mind of how Ryder was doing things.

As Ryder bumps into Thirteen she braces herself but notices something was off. Trying not to dwell on it though she continues to try and move on. Things were still tense with them and she new it.

..Sitting down at the table Thirteen waits for the food. It smelled so good, and she couldnt wait to tast it.

Listing about the new additions that Ryder was putting on the house intregued her even more.

"That would be strange. But we would, I would still get to see you alot?"

Thinking for a long moment Sapphire knows she had to watch what she says but can hear the tone in Gage's voice and it makes her a bit sad.

"We are good guys, if we wernt we wouldnt have let you outside at all. But for now we have to keep you here. You were part of the orginzation that does alot of bad things and you helped in hurting Katie."

Continuing to gentily clean Gage up Sapphire finally finish and puts a wrap around his wound before moving in front of him. The soft smile on her lips still.

"We cant blame you for only knowing the Agency's ways but we also have to be coutious so no one else gets hurt and you dont hurt yourself eather. We do care, I care and hope soon we can help you learn."

Locked up

Mick raised his eyebrows as he too scanned the room for Trent. Upon Rosetta's request, he nodded. "Yeah, sure."

Giving her shoulder a squeeze, he rises from hsi chair to wander outside. It takes him a few minutes, but he finally spots Trent standing quietly by one of the pasture fences. It wasn't all that strange - even though Trent was a part of the gang again, he was still a loner and would often spend quiet time alone. But Mick would check on him for Rosetta. "Hey, Trent."

Trent didn't move.

Mick tried again, leaning sideways into the fence to face his brother-in-law. "Everything okay?"

Trent's eyes hold a strange far-away look, and he doesn't glance in Mick's direction. His jaw muscles try to work out his tension as his fingers pick at some loose splinters of wood on the roughly-hewn fence.

Now Mick was beginning to think Rosetta was right. Something was strange. He tries a third time to start a dialogue, this time more cautiously. "Trent? What's wrong?"

By now, the traces of the one rogue tear were gone, but his eyes still held so much emotion as he finally turns to Mick. "Her name is Jasmine."

Mick had absolutely no idea what Trent was talking about. "What? Who?"

"The girl... in Nevada."

One of Mick's eyebrows quirks. "The one we were talking about who looks like Katie?"

Trent nods, but offers nothing more. Mick is almost frustrated with the lack of information. "And...how do you know her name?"

Trent swallows and shakes his head. "I have to go."

"Well, can't you answer me first?"

"No... I mean, I have to go... to Nevada."

Mick's eyes widen. "I don't understand."

"It was a long time ago." Trent purses his lips grimly as he pushes off the fence, straightening up. "I'll be leaving tomorrow."

"But..." Mick watches in total confusion as Trent walks away, towards his bunkhouse. Sighing, he turns to aim for the dining hall again. By the time he gets there, most of the others have started breaking up for the night. Mick finds Rosetta standing near the kitchen, and he slips his arms around her waist from behind, leaning over her shoulder to give her cheek a kiss. "Trent won't talk to me," he mentions quietly. "He knows something about the Agency girl though, and he says he's leaving tomorrow for Nevada."


Ryder laughs and reaches out to ruffle Thirteen's hair. "Alright... Give me ten minutes, then we'll cook some supper together."

Just as he said, ten minutes later, he's returned, having cleaned up and donned more comfortable jeans and t-shirt. "Ready?" He motions for Thirteen to join him in the kitchen. Setting about gathering the dishware, he moves about, knowing exactly what he wanted. "We're gonna do Italian tonight," he proclaims decidedly. "How does pasta, red sauce, chicken and mozzarella sound to you?"

He scans the inside of the refrigerator. "Don't know what it's called, but it tastes good."

Getting what he needs, he turns to smile at Thirteen. "Pretty soon, you're gonna be self-sufficient, you know that?" He moves about, accidentally bumping into her. "Oh, sorry."

It was the first time he hadn't reached out to steady her.

He hands her a pot then reaches out to turn on the oven. "Okay, lets see what we should do first..."

Soon, the kitchen is filled with aromas that could make anyone's stomach growl. Ryder leans back against the counter, waiting for the timer as he folds his arms over his chest. "If I can get permission, I'm gonna try to build some outside stairs," he muses. "That way, you and Katie can have even more privacy down here."


I'll catch you before you fall in your food.

A smile spreads on Jason's face and he raises Katie's hand to plant a kiss on it.

I missed you too. I would have been lost without you.

Waiting for their food, Jason's mind wanders just a little. Katie hadn't asked him yet today if he'd marry her - perhaps she really had forgotten the notion.

As soon as he'd thought about it though, he knows if Katie had been paying attention, she would have caught on. A month without their connection, Jason had lapsed into not being so careful about his thoughts. He speaks quickly, scattering those rampant thoughts.

"Laura and Nate are gonna be gone for a couple days, but as far as I know, Ryder will be there when I take you home. If you need anything though, on't hesitate to let me know, even if it's small."


Gage is a little surprised by Sapphire's order to sit down, and he doesn't have much choice but to obey. It was hard, giving her access to his wrist, but sitting sideways, he can feel her dabbing away the blood.

He's very quiet for several moments. "I used to be free," he comments. "I don't understand why if you're the good guys, you keep me locked up like this, taunting me with freedom."

He'd enjoyed going outside, but it had fed his loneliness and his desire to be free again... or at least what he had believed was real freedom.