maybe

"I promise." Carson's words had never sounded more honest.

Taking Misty's hand gently, he slips the ring onto her finger, admiring it for a moment. "And who says a man can't pick out a good ring, ay?"

A little grin appears on his face as he locks eyes with Misty once again. "I hope it's alright. And... I'm sorry about everything. This wasn't how I'd planned to ask you."

Drawing her nearer to him, he wraps his arms around her, not caring that she was still soaking wet from the rain. "Now... I never really got my desert earlier..."

Still grinning, he leans closer, pressing his lips to hers, gradually deepening the kiss until he has her in a full embrace, not caring about anything else in the world.

Dani appears again in the hallway, a towel in hand. She blinks, then just watches, leaning against the wall and shaking her head. But she had to smile. Carson had his faults like anyone, but when he did something right, he did it all the way. Dani knew he had been hesitant to get closer with Misty for two reasons... one, the issue of faith, and two, the fact that he always felt like a failure and didn't want to disappoint her. But finally... he had asked her. It might be a while still but... Dani had a feeling they were headed down the right road. And maybe by the time they actually got married, both of those reasons will be resolved.

Promise

Her heart just sinking a little again as Carson takes the ring back Misty wonders if its for the best. About to turn and leave once again Misty gives a jump as Dani comes out of no where. Looking from Dani to Carson than Dani again Misty cant help but know she was right. This was pretty sad to be going around and around with the same thing.

Watching Dani as she goes down the hall Misty cant only stand in blink before looking back to Carson. Hearing his praposle again Misty cant help the smile that forms on her face that only grows when he lets her know he is going to love her no matter what. Taking a few steps closer to Carson Misty holds her hand out to him.

"Yes, I will marry you Carson Banks! I love you with all I am and that will never change no matter what.Just promise me you will be honest with me from now on even if you think it will upset me so I dont have to hear it from someone else."

Pathetic

Carson swallows hard, the level of tension starting to lower then ease off. He stares at the outstretched ring being handed back to him, then back up to Misty's eyes.

Sighing deeply, he takes it back. "It was stupid of me to think this would work. We're just... I don't know." He closes the box lid with a snap. "You don't have anything to be sorry about anyway. It's me and I know it. I just-"

"Oh, this is pathetic."

Carson flinches as Dani suddenly joins them. She sets her hands on her hips and looks between them. "First, dear brother of mine, do you really expect a girl to say yes to you when you just haphazardly toss the ring to her? What were you thinking?!" She turns to Misty. "And you, of all people! You love this man to death, and you're turning him down because you're in the middle of a pity party. You both are!" She shakes her head. "Unbelievable... totally unbelievable. I don't know what happened earlier - I don't want to know. But for pete's sake. This really is pathetic."

Spinning around, she heads for the hallway. "I'm getting a towel for you, Misty. Carson, get your act together before I come back."

Carson's eyes have widened slightly and he looks back to the ring in his hand, to Misty, then to Dani, then back to Misty. Left alone for just a couple moments, he shrugs. "For once, I think my little sister is right."

Stepping closer to Misty, he takes the ring again, holding it out to her. "Misty Miller, I'm asking you to marry me. I don't know when, I don't know how but I'm asking you anyway. I'm tired of the games, I'm tired of the questions, I'm tired of wondering if you'll still be mine tomorrow. So... for the second time, are you going to accept this ring? Because even if you don't, I'm still gonna love you to death, so you might as well accept it and say yes."

I'm Sorry

Feeling irratated at first for Carson's own frustration she just wanted him to say yes or no before she lost the rest of her speech. Continuing to listen Misty is about to speak again when Carson finally said he loved her but catches the small box instead.

Just looking down at her hand and the little box everything else Misty was about to say was now lost. Running her fingers over the ring and the diamonds before looking up at Carson. Everything about her now changed. Her eyes held something else now maybe a little bit of confustion but something else was there too. Looking back down and than up again tears filled Misty's eyes.

"I...had this whole speech I was going to say about how I dont want to be alone, and I was going to tell you I was sorry and now...its...I..dont remeber what else I was going to say."

Feeling a ping in her heart she felt such a fool. How couldnt she have doubted Carson's love for her?!

"After everything...I want to say yes but you dont deserve me. You have come such a long way and...I made such a fool of myself. I'm sorry."

Misty holds the ring out to Carson. She felt so small right now and she was so sorry to have runed Carson saprise.

Proof

Carson blinks. All he wanted to do at the moment was help Misty clean up and make sure she was okay. But apparently she had other intentions. Her question caught him off guard and made his mouth go dry. He stares into her eyes for several long, awkward moments. "I've been trying for who knows how long to tell you that," he replies, almost in annoyance. "What does a guy have to do so a woman believes him?"

He shakes his head. "Then I lied, I cheated, I'm a mean sun-of-a-gun and you wanted to be left alone. Now you come here and ask me if I love you?"

He throws his arms up in the air. He didn't understand the way she thought, or her mood or any of it. He felt badly, seeing her in this state, but what had she been thinking, walking out in that storm anyway?

"You really want to know?" He turns around, stalking to the drawer in the end table by the couch. Pulling out a little square box, he waves it up in the air, the irritation still high. "I've been hanging onto this for the past two months, without the guts to give it to you, because all I do is screw things up. All I do is wind up in trouble. All I do is make the wrong decisions."

Still talking, he aims back towards her, ignoring the shocked look on Dani's face as she still sat on the couch, unable to help but listen. Carson's voice rises in volume, his accent becoming more pronounced.

"I turned my life around, I came to terms with God and I've been praying for the day you will too. I've been trying my hardest to be the best man I can, but it's never good enough! All I do is wind up failing in some way or the other. I'm stupid, hard-headed and ignorant! And... and... and..."

He stumbles over his own words, having no idea where he had been headed with that train of thought. His face reddens, but he's too hyped up to stop. "Yes, of course I love you! You want proof? Here! I'm tired of this stupid fight!"

Opening the box, he tosses it in her direction.

Only one small item makes up the contents.

The band is white gold.


The set of three petite diamonds sparkles, despite the gloomy atmosphere.

Do u

Not stepping inside Misty looks at Carson dead in the eyes her words were short and held much emotion maybe everything she had felt all day. Her eyes had hurt, and love, pain and joy in them and they were glazed with confusion.

"Carson Banks, do you love me?"

Though she might feel just a bit crazy she had to know. It had been to long, and with everything that happend she didnt know if it was true. She new what she felt, but could her emotions lie? She had to know from him!

What

The loud bang on the door and the shout for Carson is enough to make him jump. He'd been asleep in the same position on the couch, and Dani had fallen asleep too, the movie credits rolling up the television screen.

"What on earth...." He sits up groggily, then he realizes just whose voice he had heard. He's instantly on his feet, going for the door.

Opening it wide, he stares at Misty, his eyebrows rising. "What..." He opens the door more, so she can come in. "...what are you doing here? You walked? Are you okay?"

Call out your name

Closing the door behind Carson Misty leans her head aganst the door. Her weakness had always been Carson and not going with him killed Misty a little more inside.

Turning she goes into the bedroom and grabs her jacket and heads out the door. The rain slowly starts to fall but Misty dosnt pay anymind. It felt good on her hot face.

As the rain starts to pound harder Misty's mind races as she thinks about Carson. As her walk quickens and the rain still comes down Misty starts to run. She wanted to burn everything out so her mind would be clear.

But as the rain comes harder and some thunder cracks the hump in the pavement is not seen. As her foot gets hooked Misty hits the ground as her hands get scraped up. But as if the flood gates were open the tears finally spring into Misty's eyes her crys are loud as the thunder drowns them out, but the frustration she was feeling, the anger and the hurt was being alowed to clear.

Finally as the time ticked away Misty picks herself off the ground the tears had slowed but she was soaking wet and muddy. As the lighting start to intensafi Misty new it wasnt safe anymore. Taking a look around to see where she was, she was saprised to finder her outside Dani and Carson's place. Feeling a suddin ping of lonlyness Misty makes her way up the walk.

Giving a loud knock on the door Misty calls make sure she would be heard.

"CARSON!"

couch

Seeing the open door, Carson knows that's the request for him to leave. He looks down, then picks up his keys. There was a sinking feeling in his gut that he tried to ignore. He and Misty... they were going to be okay, weren't they? The question is obvious in his eyes.

Stopping at the door, he pauses as if wanting to say something, but he refrains. Instead, he just gives Misty a light kiss to the cheek. "I'll see ya." He departs quietly, making his way down the sidewalk and to his car.

He goes straight home. He was tempted to go elsewhere, but he knew if he did, he'd just wind up in more trouble.

Getting back to the apartment, he heads up the stairs, then inside. Dani is still up, watching television from the couch. "Carson, that you?"

"Yeah." Carson throws his keys on the counter and wanders to the living room, slipping out of his tennis shoes. Moving around, he flops down on three quarters of the couch, landing his head on the pillow that was in Dani's lap.

Dani widens her eyes. "Well hi to you too. You okay?"

"Mmm," Carson mumbles.

"I thought you'd be out late with Misty."

"So did I." Carson keeps his eyes closed, feeling miserable. "We had a little fight... kind of."

"I'm sorry." Dani ruffles his hair. "Want the couch to yourself?"

Carson shakes his head. He didn't know what he wanted.

Dani sighs and settles back, just letting her brother stay there. It wasn't often he got like this, but when he did, she knew better than to pester him. Maybe he just needed a bit of sisterly understanding tonight. "Okay. Well I'm watching a drama so just close your eyes if you don't want to see it."

Tomorrow

Letting out a small sigh Misty leans back a little in her chair. She wished things could be easy and there was no pain involved.

Thinking about Carson's question for a long moment Misty finally stands. She didnt know what she wanted right now. She wanted to hold Carson, she wanted to push him away, she wanted to go but she want to stay alone.

"Its a little late for a movie now. Maybe tomorrow we can go. I think I am just going to go for a walk to clear my head."

Moving to the door Misty opens it for Carson.

Still?

Carson withdraws a little. Her finishing statement scared him. "I... okay." He was a little surprised. She wasn't really pushing him away, but she wasn't letting them move past this either. Had he been more wrong than he'd thought?

He stands up slowly, aiming towards the door, but stops near her chair. "Um... we were gonna watch a movie tomorrow night... do you still want to go?"

Do you?

"What got me upset Carson is you lied to me again, you broke my trust again. This relationship is about being honest, and not hidding ANYTHING from eachother. You should have come to me and told me or when I asked told me. You think I am upset? You have been me upset before and this is far from upset. This...this is numb."

Misty's eyes search Carson's He was telling the truth but that didnt take away the hurt that Misty still felt.

"I'm sorry, I cant be all happy roses and smiles, It still hurts Carson, and you broke our bond."

Looking down at the table Misty runs her fingers along the edge. She felt like she was going crazy, to cry or to scream would be better than this, the feeling of being numb.

"I just need time."

Kassidy

Carson looks up from the table, his thumb having run back and forth, back and forth until Misty came. Looking across at her, his eyes are tired, the anger gone. He'd had enough time to cool down.

"You're right," he states flatly. "I'm always sorry. I always screw things up, I always go about things the wrong way, and I always make a mess."

Sighing deeply, he shakes his head, dropping his gaze. "I didn't kiss her like I kiss you, Misty. Yeah, I know I have a weakness and I know I have bad habits that I'm still trying to cut out. But the last time really was the last time and I haven't gotten involved with anyone but you, since."

Reaching into his shirt, he pulls out the locket. "I'm not playing games when I wear this... or this." He pulls up his shirt sleeve, showing the tattoo he still wore. "I wasn't joking around."

It's a long pause before he goes on, first by untucking a piece of paper from his pocket. "I was with Kassidy today because of this.... it's a password that may help me reach the files I need to prove what really happened to Scott at the Agency. Now yes..." He bravely proceeds with his admittance. "...I know Kassidy in ways that aren't appropriate for me to say in any conversation. She owed me a favor, and I called it in. She's wanted out of the Agency for a long time, but hasn't had the guts. So she was willing to help. When I met her out at the edge of town, the first thing she did was sling her arms around me and told me to play along. The Agency was probably watching her, and they thought she was just out for a good time. If it didn't look real, they'd kill her. So... I played along."

Carson shrugs lamely. "It was a split-second decision and... and... I don't know what, but it was an act, and I'm sorry it hurt you. I don't know who else was tailing me... I suspect it was Wyatt, and no one else could have known what was really going on. Kassidy backed off but was afraid to slip me the password right away, so she got in my car and we went for a drive. We stopped for a while, then I drove her back. It never went further than that, and even when she grabbed me the first time, I hated every second of it."

Taking a deep breath, he searches Misty's eyes. "I... I didn't want you finding out, not because I was trying to hide it, but because I didn't want exactly this to happen - you to get upset when there's nothing there. Kassidy is gone and that's all there was. Nothing more. Now I have a password, and I'm one step closer to the truth about Scott."

Hour

Giving a grunt before her stomach rebells again Misty whispers.

"Someone's life already is destroyed."

Trying her best to keep her stomach calm Misty stays in the bathroom for almost an hour. Though she didnt feel like puking she still hurt. Even if Carson had a good reason, a kiss is a kiss is a kiss and it shouldnt have happend.

Finally standing from the floor Misty goes to the mirror, she found is strange that no tears had come yet, and her voice had been as steady as it was when all she wanted to do was flip out. It just took to much energy right now.

"Exiting the bathroom Misty makes her way to the dinning room once again and sits down the the table looking across to Carson."

I'll be

Misty's initial statement cuts Carson to the quick, and it's evident in his eyes. She was right.

Backing off, he gives a little nod. "At least they're safe. Whether you tell me who took them or not, I'll find out and they will be destroyed before someone's life is."

He leans on the sink a moment as if contemplating whether or not he should say more. Finally he just starts to leave the bathroom. "When you're done, if you can handle a civil conversation, I'll be in the living room."

vacent

"Your always sorry."

Looking up at Carson while there was a break and her stomach was not having its say at the moment Misty's shakes her head as her eyes were vacent the small glint of sadness there deep somewhere.

"They are at TJY."

Need to know

Carson follows after Misty, quickly realizing where she was going and why.

Reaching the bathroom behind her, he doesn't bother knocking. Instead, he doesn't move back, but gently pulls Misty's hair back out of the way, giving her back a light rub.

"I'm sorry," he apologizes quietly. "I need to know who has those picture."

Coming Up

"You kissing her like you use to kiss me.Thats what was in the pictures."

Misty choaks on her own words as she can feel the slice of pizza she had was coming up. Just from the though, from the pain. Moving away from Carson Misty heads to the bathroom and makes it just in time.

If you

Carson continues his stare straight into Misty's eyes. "If you trust me, tell me what's in the pictures and where they are."

Why

"Your not answeing my questions Carson why should I answer yours? She could die? Why? That still dosnt tell me why you kissed her!"

Misty still holds her ground look up into Carson's eyes. She was hurt, hurt maybe worse than before. Carson had said he'd changed but yet he still held his ways.

"Why Carson...Why?"

Stern

"You do need to tell me who took the pictures and where they are." Carson's voice is still stern. He closes the gap between him and Misty, looking her square in the eye, his own holding a strange combination of guilt, urgency and anger. "I need to know exactly what are in those pictures or that woman could die, do you understand?"

First

"First off, I didnt accuse you of anything. I was simply ask for the why to fill in the gaps of what went wrong again this time."

Misty's own eyes narrow a little as she continues to keep her cool. Not getting upset, Not showing anger, and something at the moment was really hard but not crying.

"I dont need to tell you who took those pictures or why Carson because thats not important. Whats important is you kissed another woman, someone who wasnt me your girlfriend. I'm cracking here Carson and you cant even giving me a simple reason?"

Now

"If you really trust me, then I don't know why you have the accusing tone in your voice," Carson counters. "I didn't think I needed to report to you what I did on my breaks from work."

He takes a step closer to her, his voice stern, his eyes narrowing slightly. "I want to know who took pictures, why and where they are..... Now."

Once again

"You kissed her Carson. I know its true I had proof."

Misty stands from the movies having non in hand. She didnt know what she wanted to watch right now if anything at all. She was sick to her stomach and tired of feeling this way.

"Did I have someone follow you? No I didn't because I new I could trust you. Actully, when I saw the pictures I was pretty shocked."

Misty takes in a deep breath as she starts to pase the floor a little. Inside she felt so cold yet so hot at the same time the feeling was unreal.

"So I guess it comes down to my question once again. What did you do today Carson when you left in the middle of work?"

Misty didnt show anger in his voice as her temper did not flair. She just wanted answers to all the questions she had.

Paranoid?

Carson's jaw tightens and he folds his arms in a defensive stance. "So what? Now you don't even want me to be around any other women or what?" He fishes for more information. How much did Misty know?

"Does it matter if I saw an old acquaintance today? If it wasn't important enough for me to mention it when you asked before, why would it be more important now? Are you paranoid enough that you've had someone follow me or what?"

Choose Wisely

Still looking at the movies Misty stiffens just a little feeling herself turn a bit straghter than her slouched over from as before.

"It dosnt matter where I got it from unless your telling me its not true and you were not with a woman today and my information is wrong, but I would choose your words wisely and come clean if you must."

Misty wanted to see what Carson's reply now was. She had not yet told him she saw any pictures. Would he fess up or would he continue to lie. Had he really learned his lessons from his past mistakes or was it once again the same long road.

Want to know

Carson can feel himself tense at Misty's words. How? How had she known? He'd been clear on the other side of town. How had she found out about this?

For a moment, he just stands, not saying anything. He could tell by the sound of her voice that she was upset. He didn't detect anger yet, but she was hurt... very hurt.

He opens his mouth to speak, then just shuts it again. Another quiet minute passes before he finally opens it again. His voice has an irritated edge to it. "I want to know where you got this information from."

I know

Not standing Misty continues to look at the movies. They had finally started to all bler together, from the hurt, the anger, the confusion.

Her voice stays low and meek as her fingers run over the dvds her mind not knowing where to go and knowing she had to get it off her chest, it was hard enough trying to deal with it when she didnt know how she felt.

"I know Carson, I know you went out today and spent time with a woman. I just dont understand why you didnt tell me to my face."

Misty didnt turn to look at Carson her heart hurt, and if she looked up into his blue eyes she would crack and she new it.

Just tell me

Carson wanders into the living room, leaning on the back of the couch. Hearing Misty's question, he furrows his brow and stands up straighter. Something just didn't feel right. She didn't normally ask him questions like this.

"Um... nothing happened in particular..." He could feel just a bit of heat creeping up the back of his neck though.

"Was there... something that should have?" He fishes, beginning to feel just a little scared. But this was impossible. There was no way she could know. "I mean... what are you getting at, Misty? Just tell me."

Nothing at all?

Finishing her slice of pizza Misty knows she cant have anymore or what was in her stomach would be all over the floor. Standing and putting her plat in the sink she stands at the counter for a long moment just contemplating in her own mind. She felt hurt and confused all over again. Even if Carson had a reason there was nothing good or right about kissing another woman. This was the third time Misty had been faced with this with Carson.

"There is not much to talk about just.... something Wyatt told me that happend and I am not to sure I know how to feel right now. Most of it I have to try and figure out myself."

It was so hard to just still and not tell him she didnt know but on another hand she hoped he would tell her himself. Hadnt he learned not to keep secrets? Hadnt he learned anything? Hadnt he almost lost her enough? It hurt and Misty hated it yet to her own surprise she was handling it well.

Pushing off the counter Misty makes her way over to the movie rack looking for something to watch. It was hard to choose and though she new every movie she had the need to look again was there. Continuing to look her eyes scan the movies as she casually asks Carson again.

"Your sure nothing else happened in your day you wanted to tell me about? See any old friends, any new friends?"

Mushy romance

Carson cocks his head. He'd seen Misty tired before... he'd seen her stressed... he'd seen her when she had a lot on her mind. And something this time was... different. But he couldn't put his finger on it. It seemed odd she wasn't even razzing him about forgetting their date. Even if she was genuinely disappointed, she always would tease him, never letting him live it down. Tonight... it was almost as if she didn't care. That thought kind of hurt, but it was his own fault for not remembering. He'd done that too often and he needed to start being more careful before Misty quit caring for good.

He falls silent for several minutes, polishing off a couple slices of pizza. Finally he looks back up to Misty, question in his eyes. There was an odd feeling in the room. Thoughts of earlier in the day drift through his mind. But surely this had nothing to do with that. No one knew about that. He shakes the thought away.

"If... you got a lot on your mind, I'm here to listen if you want. Or if you don't want to, we can curl up on the couch for a movie... I'll even let you pick out a mushy romance."

Promised

Taking another bit of her food Misty gives a nod to Carson as he talks about his errans. Misty wanted so bad to come out and just ask Carson about the woman. It was now eating her away inside but she had promised Wyatt she wouldnt say anything and though he hadnt said why she new it must be for a good reason.

"Made at you for missing our date night no not really."

Misty wished she could be in a light mood but right now it just wasnt possible for her. So much weighed heavy on her mind and on her heart.

"Sorry I am not much company. I just got alot on my mind at the moment. One of those things where its important but not important at the same time."

Waiting to kill

Carson's all ready to head for the couch, but seeing Misty sit at the table, he shrugs. Maybe she wasn't in the mood. He grabs a chair across from her.

"Mm-hmm," he nods absentmindedly as he takes a bite of pizza. "Errands. I actually caught Ryder and threw him in the kitchen until I got back. It was a mess but I think he and Thirteen had fun."

He takes another swig of pop before stopping and looking over at Misty. "You alright? Or are you really mad I forgot about tonight and you're waiting to kill me after we eat?"

Step out

Misty quirks an eyebrow as Carson draws her close she wraps an arm around his neck as she looks up into his eyes. Didnt you already have dessert once today? Misty cant help the small grin that forms on her face. Leaning into give Carson a kiss she studys his blue eyes before there lips lock. For a long moment the moment holds before Misty finally breaks away another flash of Carson kissing someone else forming.

Going over to the pizza box she opens it grabing a peace for herself and once for Carson. Taking a small bit she savors the flavor for a moment before speaking again.

"I was starting to get worryed about you earlyer today when I called. You phone would ring but you never answered. So I ended up calling the restront and got Aerith she had said you stepped out for a moment. I figured maybe Reese had set you to do something."

Taking another bit of the pizza Misty sinks down into one of the close chairs.

Second attempt

Carson quirks an eyebrow as Misty disappears, visibly disappointed in the quick kiss. He shrugs it off though, and goes into the kitchen grabbing some glasses and ice for the pop.

"I haven't eaten either. Surrounded by food but none for me." He grimaces, pouring the pop, then toasting the air. "Here's to a day behind the stove filled with boredom. You know me lately... everything is food related."

Taking a sip, he moves to open the pizza box. Before grabbing a slice though, he sets his glass back down and brings Misty close once more. "So do I get desert first, or do I have to wait?" He grins mischievously and tries for another kiss.

Long day

Clearing a place on the table to put the pizza down Misty moves a stack of papers to the couch along with a few other things she had been working on.

"I'm not that tired. Just was a long day today."

Giving Carson a quick kiss Misty than disapears into the bedroom to put Romeo in his Cage with Juliet. Coming back into the living room she gives another smile.

"The food smells good. I havent had anything to eat all day."

Her stomach gave a lurch as the memories of the picture of Carson and the woman kissing pop into her head reminding her why she hadn't had anything to eat. Trying to regain herself Misty gives a small smile signaling to Carson she would be ok.

"How was your day at work today? So anything outside the restront or was it all food related?"

sheepish

Carson is a bit relieved when Misty finally answers the door. "Ditto," he counters ruefully. "I'm sorry." He enters and sets the pizza down at the table. "I forgot all about the time, my phone needs a recharge and..."

He lets his sentence trail off as he looks down into Misty's eyes. "Sorry," he apologizes again. "You look... tired."

Reaching out, he scratches Romeo's head. "Did you wear her out tonight, hmm, or was that my fault?"

He pulls Misty closer, his crooked grin sheepishly asking for a kiss. "Forgive me?"

Forgot

Sitting on the couch and staring at the tv Misty gently pets Romeo's fur as he is perched on her shoulder. The knock at the door and Carson's voice being hurd but no a muscle was moved. Hearing the knock again Romeo gives a chirp as he looks to the door.

Finally getting up Misty goes to the door her pet still on her shoulder. Closing her eyes for just a moment she takes a deep breath before opening the door.

Putting on a smile Misty looks at Carson and though she tryed not to convay anything was wrong her eyes were a bit darker tonight.

"I thought maybe you forgot about me! Come on in."

Misty steps back and keeps the door open for Carson to come in before closing it behind her.

Had to be

It was late. The restaurant had been left without serving dinner to the reserved table. The phone messages were unheard in a dead cell phone. The dark of the evening had settled, and guilt was thick in the air.

Carson knocks at Misty's door, hoping she was still up. He'd completely forgotten about his date. Only after closing up really late at Mom and Pops had he realized his phone battery had died. Instead of calling, he'd come to her place, hoping to smooth things over. He didn't know if she'd eaten or not, but he had a small pizza with him anyway, and a bottle of pop.

"Misty?" He'd seen her car... he knew she had to be here...

Keep

Taking the top picture of Carson and the woman kissing Misty looks at it for several moments her face never changing its expression. But on the inside Misty felt a mess. Her stomach did flip flops and her heart raced she could feel her blood pressure rising.

Opening her desk draw Misty puts the picture into it before closing it again. Why she was keeping it she didnt really know.

"Thank you Wyatt. Try and have a good day ok?!"

Uh oh

Wyatt stops, contemplating for several seconds that seem to take too long. He steps back towards her desk. "I wasn't supposed to say anything, but... well I don't know." He shrugs lamely. "Lately Carson's been acting a bit odd while he's been working on the case for Scott. We thought he'd been in too much contact with the Agency so... I was supposed to keep an eye on him. Today he met this woman out at the edge of town and... I'm pretty sure she's Agency. Haven't confirmed it yet, but I recognize her from some files I've seen."

He pauses, biting his lip. "Look, I don't want to stir up trouble, alright? I mean, I just saw what I saw and..."

It wasn't working. He could make up all the excuses that he wanted to, when he had the pictures in his hand. The felt like they were on fire.

Finally he just takes them out. "I'm sorry."

The top one reveals what he'd been so hesitant to share. Carson and the woman had been captured on film, kissing quite passionately by his car.

Wyatt swallows hard. "I... stopped at this picture. When they both got in his car and drove away, I lost him in traffic." He knew the day of the week it was, and knew that Misty and Carson usually went out. He wasn't sure what to say or how to say it now, and he didn't even know why he felt guilty, but he did.

Telling

Seeing the last look in Wyatt's eye Misty can tell there is something more and she cant help the feeling that jumps in her chest as her heart thumps and prepares for maybe the worst.

"Wyatt..."

Misty calls to her cousin stopping him from going out the door her voice was strong even though she felt like it was quivering.

"...what arnt you telling me?"

Don't mention

"Okay." Wyatt nods, though is a little disappointed. "I'll um... file this."

He takes the picture back, returning it to an envelope that had several more pictures in it that he did not take out.

"Thanks." Turning to leave, he stops. "Misty..." His tone has dropped to a more personal level, one that was a bit serious. But then he pauses, seeming to rethink his words. "Never mind. I'll see you later and... don't mention this to Carson, okay?"

Sorry

Looking up at Wyatt Misty puts down her pen and moves her reading glass to her head. Even though she worked with Wyatt it wasnt often she saw him with each going there own way.

"Heya Wy what ya got there?"

Pushing back a little she listings to Wyatt's bref explanation on what he was doing and what he had. Taking the photo Misty scans the picture quiet for a long moment looking at the woman. A small feeling rises in her stomach as she continues to look her eyes zeroing in on the woman's hand on Carson's arm. Trying to keep her composure Misty hands the photo back to Wyatt and trys to give a small smile.

"I've never seen her before Wy, sorry!"

Woman

Con gives Charlotte a knowing nod. Things weren't good. But she was a trooper.

"No, I'm fine. Go take a break. I'll wait here."

Once she is gone, Con sinks down in one of the chairs, looking at Bret for several moments. "Come on, Bret... I know you can pull through." Saying another silent prayer, he just sits and waits for Charlotte to return.


Reese nods to Phinox. "Okay, that's fine. I shouldn't be too much longer here anyway. Give me about forty-five minutes."


Wyatt ambles down the hall to the infirmary, photo in hand. He didn't particularly like this, but he was just doing his job.

His hair pulled back, he peeks into the room, finding it relatively quiet. "Hey, Rick... how's the patient?"

Rick sees him, then glances to Jeff. "Better with a few new meds in him and after he threw up a few times."

Wyatt grimaces a little. "He be alright?"

"Don't know. Angel Trahern is looking into a few things."

"Hmm." Wyatt shifts his focus to the back desk and walks around the bed to Misty's space. "Hey, Cous." He ambles closer, leaning on the corner of the desk. "I, um... had a question for you. Dad's got me working on something and...."

It's evident he doesn't want to say something, but finally he just shows Misty the picture. "I took this today. Dad wants to know if you know the woman."

The picture shows Carson talking with a woman who is sitting on the hood of his car. She is slim and in her later thirties with dark hair. Though at a distance, it's obvious she's smiling at something, her hand on Carson's arm as they talk.

Wyatt looks at Misty, waiting.

Not just me

Just looking at Reese Phinox is quiet for a long moment. He had so many things in the past that he was not happy about. So many things he had done wrong and yet Reese was still willing to accept him no questions asked.

"I'm not sure what to say besides thank you. This might not be my calling anymore but its nice to know I have some where if it is."

Giving a small nod Phinox stands. He didnt know what he would do till Reese was ready to go but he would keep himself busy some how.

"I only have a bag with not much in it and the motorcycle so I wont clutter your house till I find my own place. I'll just have a look around till your ready to go."

Feeling Con's hand on her shoulder Charlotte looks up. Tears had been long gone as her inner strangth kicked in but the trail the tears had taken still remained. Looking back to Bret she lets out a small sigh.

"He's the stable at the moment but far from out of the woods."

Sucking in a deep breath Charlotte can hear her stomach growl reminding her she hadnt had anything to eat today. Though she wasnt very hungry Charlotte new it wasnt just about her anymore and for her baby's sake she should eat something.

Standing she rests a hand on Con's arm giving a small smile.

"I need to get something to eat even though I dont want to leave, but I have to. So I will give you some time to be with Bret alone. I dont be gone long I promise. You need anything?"

Recipe

Reese can't help a light chuckle. "Look around you, Phinox. I just rehired a man who was once kicked off of the police force. I have another I'm trying to get back who spent a good part of his life as an assassin. One of my janitors is still prone to trouble. One of my physicians, who also happens to be my niece, is a recovered Agency recruit. The girl we went in to rescue - you think her past record is a hundred percent clean? I've got an Australian who was a pretty high rank at the Agency."

He shakes his head. "Not fit in? We're a group of misfits. Yes, we're the Elite, and the name fits our skills and jobs we take on. But we're still misfits. That's why we work so well together. We all come with baggage, we all have pasts that have shaped us, and we all have to accept each other for who we are and work as a team - otherwise the Elite might as well dissolve into the regulated police department. You have character, Phinox. You've been beat down, broken, and you're seeing now some of the mistakes you might have made. But it doesn't make you less of a man, or less worthy to serve with us, if your intentions are pure."

He leans forward to jot down some notes. "I will speak with Brown tomorrow about your situation and see what can be done. I'm in the process of trying to sort out several other cases as well. In the meantime... you can stay at my place tonight."


"Yeah, okay." Con nods numbly and gives Jamie a quick hug before leaving TJY. A prayer was on his mind on his way to the hospital. He'd been trying for months to get Bret to consider Christ, but he'd continually balked, always living for the moment in what he called "freedom." Con's heart almost hurt. What if...

He shakes his head at himself as he slows for a red light. Bret was going to be okay. Perhaps this would be the wake-up call he needed.

Finally arriving to the hospital, Con is quick to find out where Bret is. It worked out nicely that he had just come from TJY... with his new badge, getting to see Bret was a whole lot easier.

The small room is dim and quiet, except for the soft humming of machines. Con enters slowly, making the room seem even smaller. His big hand is soft and gentle as he lays it on Charlotte's shoulder. "Hey." He greets her quietly. "Someone from the track called me. How's he doing?"


Ryder laughs. He steps closer to Thirteen with a wet towel to clean off part of her face. "If there's anybody cute in this kitchen, it's you."

Just as he's turning back to the stove, the one he'd been waiting for appears in the doorway.

Carson stops, his eyebrows rising high as he looks around. The kitchen... his kitchen... looked like a tornado had swept through it. He blinks and looks to Thirteen, then to Ryder. "Well... looks like you've been busy."

"Busy? ...Busy? That's all you have to say?!" Ryder takes off his apron and tosses it in Carson's direction. "Table eight is waiting on a pizza. You better get busy."

Despite the mess, Carson had seen the pleased looks on customer's faces as he'd come in through the front. The kitchen might be in total disarray, but somehow, Ryder had pulled of the job. For that, Carson couldn't complain. "Right." He tosses aside his keys and grabs the apron. "Next time you two come in, your meal is on the house."

Ryder grins at Thirteen. "Looks like we'll have to come back sometime." He moves to the sink to clean up and help her clean up as well before they left.

Carson tries to get his bearings, seeing that half of the things were now in different places. He'd only been gone two hours, but that had been enough. He tastes some leftover white sauce. "Hey... what did you put in here?"

Ryder looks up from the sink. "Um... I'm... not really sure. That bad?"

"No." Carson shakes his head, surprised. "I'll have to figure out what you did because I like it better than the other recipe. Hey, Aerith?" he calls, setting the bowl down. "Dani? Sorry I disappeared. How are things going?"

You look

Phinox's family was gone, his home and all he new in Spain was no more. Where was he to go now? What would he do? Two worlds he has lived in were both lies, who really was Simon Phinox? A lier, an assassin, and undercover agent, a criminal...who was he and where did he belong now?

Looking up at Reese Phinox searchs his face for a long moment.

"I have no where else to go and though I might not fit in with the elite my name being cleared would be nice. I guess we can start there and see what happens."

Looking with consern to Con as he talked on the phone Jamie waited. What else could go wrong? It seemed like it was one thing after another.

Waiting till he was oh the phone Jamie brings a hand to her mouth as she hears about Bret. It was hard to hear about a friend being hurt yet so close to thee edge.

"Yes yes I understand completely. Please let Charlotte know I am here if she needs anything."

Jamie gives her husband a hug and a quick kiss before taking a few steps back.

"Give me a call later and I cant stop by the hospetil on the way home if your still there."

Moving through the kitchen quickly keeping up pretty well with Ryder Thirteen does her best and is pleased with herself.

The kitchen was now a mess, Ryder was a mess and so was she but it had been fun. Something she had never experince before but happy she now had. It was differnt, but the hussle of the kitchen sh liked.

Laughs fulled the kitchen every now and than as silly things happend, or flower went all over. The smells that filled the air were nice, and seeing the smiling people out in the dinning room made her feel good that she had helped put those smiles on there faces.

Turning to Ryder flower was on her own cheeks along with some sause and a few other food items. A smile on her face.

"This is kind of fun, and you look reticulated but still as cute as ever."

Death wish

Reese watches Phinox, still in a bit of shock. He finally puts his feet in motion, and walks around his desk to sit down too, his eyes still on the man they all had thought was dead.

Listening intently, he lets out a long sigh, and shakes his head. "I'm sorry, Phinox... if we would have known... You know, you were the hero that day... if it hadn't been for you, Katie probably wouldn't be with us now." He nods, implying that was the answer to Phinox's question. "But she is. We were able to get her out. She spent a month in a coma but... she's on the mend and will probably be back to work tomorrow."

Leaning forward a little, he folds his hands on the desk. "We wound up with the girl who was set up as Katie's double as well. Her name's Jasmine, though at the moment, she's still going by her Agency-given name of Thirteen. One of my men is handling her care. So yes... the mission was a success... other than your supposed death. We all wished we would have had time to thank you. I know your past has some stains, but... you showed you truly cared, giving your life like that."

Reese thinks for a long moment, just studying Phinox. He was slowly getting over the shock, but a lot of questions remained, and none came with easy answers. "I wish I could say that you're free, but... I know you're smart enough to know that we're going to have to go through some channels here, if you're going to stick around. I'm not going to force you though... you helped us bring Katie back, so if your plan is just to walk away and go, then I won't stop you. But... if you want to stay... if you have nothing else then... I'd like to help."


Con grins and comes around to draw Jamie into an embrace, enveloping her in his large frame. "Mm... I'm just glad I'll get to see you more."

Before he can say anymore, his phone vibrates on his belt. "I better get that." Letting go of Jamie, he takes his phone and looks at the number. He didn't recognize it. "Hello? Yes, this is Con..." He throws Jamie a confused look as he talks to the person on the other end. "What? When? What happened? Yes... please..." He scrambles around Jamie in the small space, fishing for a pen and piece of paper, scribbling out a short memo. "Uh-huh... yeah, thanks. Appreciate it."

Flipping his phone shut, he turns back to Jamie, looking down at her grimly. "That was someone from the racetrack. There was an accident and Bret's in critical condition. He's in ICU right now and apparently Charlotte's there with him. I should go."


"Of course you can help me!" Ryder spins around twice before spotting an extra apron. "Here we go." Turning Thirteen, he ties the apron around her waist for her. "There we are... now you're officially an assistant of a pretend cook."

He rubs his hands together, going to the stove, then looking up to find the orders that were waiting. "Let's see... um... chicken. Yes... chicken."

"Fridge!" Dani yells at him. "Come on, let's move."

"Moving, moving!" Ryder's eyes were wide as he glances at Thirteen again. "I hope you realize that this was as good as a death wish on Carson's part."

For the next hour, the kitchen is chaos. Food, pots, pans, plats, utensils and anything else imaginable ends up on the counter, table, floor, trash and anywhere else it could possibly land. Good use is made of the mop, and a batch of pasta winds up ruined. One attempt at pizza winds up in filling the kitchen with smoke before the second one is made, and at some point in time, a cloud of flour replaces the cloud of smoke.

But somehow, with the help of Dani and Aerith, the customers are none the wiser. Though everything is an entire mess, Ryder somehow manages to pull through, even gaining a compliment from a very satisfied customer. He wasn't sure what he did with the white sauce, but it must have worked. Though his style was a bit different from Carson's, surprisingly enough, the food ends up done, just a tad later than usual.

Another half hour, and there was a steady flow of people. By now the kitchen was is total disarray, but by this time, Ryder has somewhat of an idea of what's going on, and at least knows where things are.

"Another pepperoni pizza!" Dani calls, handing off the drink list to Aerith before stepping to a waving customer at another table.

"Got it!" Ryder yells back. "Um..." Turning around once or twice, he gets his bearings again, and sets to work. Flour was smudged on his cheek and shirt, and two fingers on his right hand sported bandaids where he'd burned himself. His left thumb also wore a bandaid from slicing it with a knife.

He glances at the clock, then over to Thirteen who he had set to work getting him utensils when he needed them. "Carson is so dead."

One question

Leaning into Jason Katie can feel his comfort that seemed to whipe away the worry. Now words needed to be said between these for two. There comfort would soak into each other and chase away the tears.

"I though I was dead too untill I woke up in a cold Agency cell with five bullet hole wounds dug out and sewn up."

Taping his right knee Phinox signals one of the bullets had hit his kneecap causing damage and the reason for his limp.

"Why they kept me alive I dont know. Maybe because I had information about you, all of you or because I had information about them."

Walking past Reese Phinox cant help the small grin that spread on his face in seeing Reese reaction. Getting to one of the chairs Phinox eases himself down in it.

"For a little under a month that cell was my home. Everyday I was told my family was gone and I know they were telling the truth. They are the Agency when one of there own betrays them they make them suffer. I had nothing left."

Drawing in a wavering breath it was easy to see that talking about his family was a hard time for Phinox to do, but regaining his composure quickly he continues.

"Slowly on the inside I was dieing but to fully die by the hand of the Agency would have been a disgrace. So I formed a plan and escaped. I stole a motorcycle from them and than made my way here to face my fate. To have the Elite judge me would have been better than the Agency."

Shifting just a little Phinox trys to make himself comfortable in the uncomfortable situation.

"But before you decied my fate could you honer me with on request? A question really?"

Most people would think someone facing much like Phinox would beg for there life or ask for someone to reconsider bit Phinox did neather. His question was simple and very selfless.

"That girl we went in for you guys got her out ok? She is alright?"

Looking up from her work Jamie squints her eyes just a little bit. A grin crossing her face as her eyes scan the badge."

"Ohh...well look at you!"

Standing Jamie wraps her arms around Con's neck. She only hoped this would lighten Con's mood again and be good for him. She new this was his passion and though he wasnt doing the same as before it was still close to the same.

Following Ryder into the back Thirteen sticks close. Things had gotten a little to busy before and had put her on edge.

Staring to go over to the table Thirteen cant help but let out a giggle as she trys to watch Ryder move around the kitchen not really knowing where anything was. For once it was strange but funny to see him panicing a little.

Standing Thirteen goes over and stands next to him looking out into the dinningroom. It was getting super busy. Maybe she couldnt do much but at least maybe it was something.

"Can I help you make a mess? I cant do any worse than you right?"

Thirteen gives a smile as her eyes twinkle.

Entering the room Charlotte slowly goes over to the bed and looks down at Bret. A few tears roll down her cheek as she looks at her husbands still form in the bed. Hooked up to all the masheans and seeing all the cuts and bruses on him he looked so differnt.

Grabbing a chair Charlotte moves it to the side of the bed and sits down slipping her hand into Bret's.

"Oh Bret, please be ok. I dont know what I would do with out you in my life. Specially now before you even get to know your going to be a dad."

Leaning her head down Charlotte rests her head on Brets hand just letting the silence rule as so many things ran through her own mind.