Weakness

"Shhh." Jason moves up on the bed, letting Katie rest her head in his lap. He continues to run his fingers through her hair, just letting her cry and talk. He felt rotten and he wasn't even sure why. Maybe because he felt he should have known she was in so much pain... that he should have seen the signs... that he should have been more careful.

Disappointment flickers in his eyes, but he keeps it at bay. He had had hopes for solving their connection problems, but it looked like it would not happen now. He knew Katie wasn't doing any of this on purpose - on the contrary, she was in so much pain. But he couldn't help but be a little disappointed that things hadn't worked out this time around.

"It's okay..." His voice is low and soothing. Looking up, he sees Rick still there. "Has she taken her dose today?"

"I doubt it. I don't think she's been out of bed. She better take hers though since you would have taken yours at least two hours ago."

Jason shakes his head slowly. "I... didn't take it."

Rick's eyebrows rise. "What? Why?"

"Something told me not to." Jason shrugs. "We don't have long now... I can feel things starting to move again. Katie should feel it soon, too." Bending over, he kisses her forehead. "You're gonna be alright," he coaxes. "I know it hurts... there's nothing wrong with the way you feel... it was an awful thing to go through and you have every right to feel scared."

As Rick watches, he could tell that Jason was disappointed. He knew his young friend had finally thought he'd found freedom. Giving that up right now wasn't easy for him, and he would probably think more on it later, but right now, he was there for Katie - she was priority and Rick approved. "Want me to stay?"

"I don't know what for," Jason admits. "Just... when you get back to TJY, ask Ryder if he and Thirteen can take care of Trooper and... tell Reese what's going on."

"Yeah, sure, no problem. If you need anything, call."

"Right." Jason watches him leave, then lifts Katie up a little. Kicking off his shoes, he scoots back further onto the bed to lay on his side, tucking Katie in next to him with his arm around her, his chest to her back. He kisses the top of her head and hums a lullaby for a few minutes, trying to comfort her. "If you need to talk more, I'm here."


Gage looks at the lemonade for several moments before hesitantly taking it. One could tell he wasn't sure what to do with a free gift from a stranger, but Hope had tapped into his new weakness. Unscrewing the cap, he takes a small sip, savoring the tangy sour and sweet flavor.

It takes him a long time again to respond to Hope. He wasn't slow... by no means. He was highly intelligent and knew exactly what she was asking. But he took time to formulate his answers.

"I don't know how to live my own life," he admits quietly. "I... I thought I did, but... now I know different." His eyes glance up to catch Hope's. "I didn't know all those things I did were wrong. I just... I saw a lot of people get hurt and... and I helped it happen... like with Katie..."

He swallows and shrugs lamely. "I didn't know there was anything else... I thought there was a reason for it all. And now, I... the thought of being on my own... I like it, but... I don't know how. It's kinda scary out there, ya know?"

He almost laughs, feeling very stupid. "I know they might send me to jail, and I guess maybe that would be best. I just... never had a chance before."

Would yoou

Staying down with her head rested into her pillow Katie hears Rick but didn't reply. She felt so confused, and scared. She had been broken, and wondered how she would be repaired. She was damaged and didnt know how anyone would want to take the time but Rick was here now, and wanted to help. Jen, Scott they all had said they wanted to help.

Hearing Jason's voice Katie jumps just a little not exspecting him to be coming and embarrassed he was there. Feeling his hand brush her hair from her face Katie opens her eyes tiredly looking up at him. Hearing his words a few more tears spring into Katie's eyes. He'd come, he had come for her to see what was wrong. Jason had cared.

Moving a little in the bed Katie takes Jason's hand into her own. Her kind was cold and clamy but the warmth from his own skin felt good. Gentily pulling herself closer to Jason Katie puts her head into Jason's lap as a few more sobs could be hurd.

"I hated how I felt, to be disconnected from you. To think you were dead because the Agency had cut me off from you. I was so scared and I was so alone. The only comfort was when they came in to torcher me, try and pump me for information. There words..."

Katie's hand clasped Jason's as she talked and her memories came into him.

"...There words whispered and stuck. I wanted to die, but I wanted to live...it hurt so bad and...I just....I was so alone, and I hated how it felt, and I hate myself even more that I am like this and I dont even know why."

Katie's words were mixed together in babble as most didnt make much sence. But it was everything Katie felt and there was so much more but Katie feared much more and she would lose everything in her stomach again.

Continuing to give a smile to Gage Hope makes herself a bit comfortable as she kept her eyes soft and spoke in a soft tone as well.

"Well, I am here because I want to help you Gage. You've keep kept away from the outside world for a long time. If given the chanse we would like you to have a fighting chanse in the world to do stuff normal people do. To have a freedom you have never known."

Gage was different from Alec he was calmer, and had a different temperament altogether. One she did not perfer over the other. To her they were the same just needed to be handled differentially.

Once again reaching in her bag this time for Gage she pulls out a bottle of lemonaid. Setting it on the table she pushes it twords Gage.

"You can take it if you like. I thought maybe you were thirty."

Sitting back in her chair again Hope folds her hands in front of her as she continues to watch Gage.

"As for what they are going to do with you, I dont know but from what I can see Sapphire wants to be your friend and help you be happy, and everyone else just wants to you to be able to live you own life. would you like that?"

Done

Gage hesitantly raises his eyes to look at Hope. He studies her for such a long time that one might think he either wasn't going to answer her, or he hasn't heard her at all. But finally, he speaks.

"I've been having a good a time as any man who is finding out everything he's ever known has been a lie." His eyes seem tired and almost sad. "They didn't explain much about why you were here... you must be taking an evaluation or something, right?"

His eyes drift from her to her bag, wondering if she were armed with paperwork or weapons. "I've been trying to figure out what they're going to do with me but no one seems to know... not even Sapphire."


Listening to Katie, Rick withdraws a little, a chill running down his spine. Something wasn't right. He didn't know how this was connected to the meds if it was at all, but he didn't like this, not one bit.

Rising to his feet, he walks into the hall, leaving the bedroom door open. He reaches for his cell phone and waits. "Yeah, Jason, it's Rick. I don't know, look, I don't want you taking anymore of the antidote, okay? I don't know. No, I don't think it's that, it's just... I don't think she can handle it right now. There's more to this than we thought. Please... okay. Yeah, you might want to come too and we'll go from there."

Rick goes back to Katie's side, sighing deeply. He gives her arm a pat. "You know... even Heroes have weak spots, Katie... and that's not a bad thing. It helps us to always remember we're human." He pauses, hurting for his young friend. He didn't know what she was talking about, but he had a sinking feeling it had to do with her experience with the Agency. "There's always help for you... in here." He taps over her heart. "But you gotta let people in to let those wounds heal."

It doesn't take long before the sound of Jason's truck can be heard. Rick goes to the window to make sure it's him, then meets him at the door. Another two minutes, and Jason is in Katie's room, kneeling beside the bed, near her head so he can be eye-level with her. Worry courses through his eyes as he reaches out to comb his fingers through her hair. "We won't take any more," he mentions quietly. "No more right now, okay? You gonna tell me what's really going on?"


Scott's head slams into the mat and he cries out, but his opponent doesn't give in.

Gunner manipulates their position, dominating the match like he always did. "Come on, Scott, you're making it too easy."

Scott grits his teeth and writhes under Gunner's weight before bringing a leg up and around across Gunner's throat to throw him to the side. The move is effective and Gunner grunts as his elbow hits the floor. "There you go, there you go."

Sweaty from head to toe, Scott manages to get back to his feet, his knees threatening to buckle. His hands up in front of his face, he manages to block a jab and a kick, but then misses his own punch and leaves himself vulnerable. A hit to the ribs sends him back down again where he's put in a hold he can't break. Trying to breath, he gaps as Gunner's forearm presses against his throat, his own arm twisted mercilessly behind his back.

"You just can't learn can you, Scott?" Gunner hisses in his ear. "You're too stupid to do anything right." He yanks a little harder on Scott's arm. "You're not good enough to be with the Elite."

Scott's anger boiled. He was so tired of this same thing over and over and over again, Gunner hounding him and pounding into him that he was no good. Being told he wasn't good enough for the one place he wanted to return to finally pushed him over the edge. "That's not true!" he cries out.

Gunner rolls Scott over to see his face, still keeping him in a locked hold. "Prove it!"

Scott's eyes blaze. "I don't have to!"

Gunner's hold is suddenly released and he rocks back to stand up and look down at Scott. "We're done."

Scott is breathing heavily and he blinks. "What?"

"We're done." Gunner offers him a hand up.

"You mean... for good? But... I haven't-"

"You're ready to face the world, Scott." Gunner nods. "You've just proven it."

Hero's

Entering the room where Gage was next Hope once again takes in everything around her becoming familiar with this room as well even though it was the same.

Sitting down across from Gage Hope just watchs him for a long moment. Though Gage, and Alec were two different people completely still there were some things that were the same.

"Hi Gage. My name is Hope Garrison. How are you today? I heard Sapphire has been showing you around. Have you been having a nice time?"

Hope offers Gage a small smile.

Letting out a quivering sigh Katie looks blankly at the wall. How was she to even explain it. Everyone would think she was crazy and maybe she felt it a little but she didnt need people pointing it out.

"Hero's arnt meant to have weakness Rick."

A small tear trickled form Katie's eye as she tryed to keep her memories away. She hated how out of controll she felt.

"I hate that medicine you made. And I hat the way it makes me feel, the memories it brings. Its bad enough I have to have physical scars let alone mental ones that keep getting ripped open as well. And Jason just wouldnt understand because he think what he is doing is right."

Letting out a long sigh Katie closes her eyes.

"The darkness is my only friend where and sleep keeps the memories at bay. There is no help for me Rick."

Important

Alec watches Hope leave, keeping his eyes on her until the door falls shut. Looking back at the table, he folds his hands, staring at the cuffs. Glancing up to the corner of the room, he glares at one of the cameras. No one would ever trust him to give him freedom.


Reese purses his lips and nods. "Thank you, Hope... I appreciate this. I'll have some paperwork for you to fill out so I can put your thoughts on file. In the meantime... your next party awaits."

Pushing open the door to the other interrogation room, he reveals Gage, sitting at a table. The scene mirrored the other room, except Gage was not bound. Though not cuffed, he slouches in his chair, no confidence present, let alone pride. His hands rest in his lap, and his eyes are glued to the table. He wasn't really sure why he was in here or why they had some woman coming to talk with him... or what difference it would make.


Rick sighs deeply. "Help me out here, Hero..." He keeps his voice soft... soothing. "I need to know what's wrong so I can help you. Are you really sick? Does it feel like a cold, or the flu? Since you're on that medication it's really important that I know."

Lost

"Nather of you are a targets Alec..."

Taking the cards from the table Hope puts them back into the box before leaning down and putting the cards into her bag once again knowing the short window she had, had was now closed and Alec was now closed up.

Though she saw much not many other people could see Hope had and she new there was more behind those cold eyes and she saw the hope that was there.

"Alec, I do want to help you but you have to help yourself first. Your far from a kid so I wont do my normal speech. But if you even wanna play cards again is your choose and just ask for me."

Standing Hope takes her bag and heads to the door before stoping and turning giving a small smile.

"Your an intresting guy Alec, Thank you for playing cards with me."

Leaving the room Hope lets out a long sigh as she turns to look at Reese.

" He's not a bad guy Reese. He's just lost, scaired, and confused. He dosnt know where he fits in and he knows he has done things wrong he's just...."

Hope looks back in the room for a moment catching the last glimps of Alec as the door closes.

"...lost."

Katie looks tiredly from under the blankets. Her eyes seemed almost lifeless as they held a tired gaze.

"Its not the medicen Rick. I just want to sleep, I'm tired and I dont feel good. I just....dont want to be here. ."

Katie sinks her head back into the pillow as she can still feel Rick next to her. She wanted to talk to him, yet she new it wouldnt help. There was nothing that could help.

Too quiet

Alec tosses his cards down. All he'd had was a pair of nines. Gathering the cards, its his turn to deal. "You want to know everything? You want me to put all of my figurative cards on the table?"

Alec spreads his hands. "I don't know anything else, alright? Thirteen's got a home - great. She's got some Aussie sucker to go right alone with it. And Gage? He's too stupid to know better. Me, I'm like a tiger, brought in to the zoo. Not only do I just get to pace all day, I got creepy people staring at me, looking in on me, and making sure I behave. I'm gonna get that whether I'm behind bars or not. So why not choose bars where I get three free meals a day?"

Sighing, he looks back at the cards, unwilling now to play anymore. Dreams existed behind his eyes... dreamed he'd never dared to let surface. Underneath his thick outer shell, there was more that he expertly hid from the world to protect himself. Faced with the unknown... he would choose jail where he knew he'd fit in, rather than freedom where there was a risk of failure. He was no more a threat to the Elite than Gage... but it took an expert eye to see it.

Alec shakes his head. "I don't think there's much more to talk about here." He hands her back her cards. "Tell Reese what you will... I'm sure he's got Gage waiting in the next room over. He should be an easier target for you."


Jason rubs his forehead, hearing Katie's tired voice. "Okay, I'm gonna send Rick over. I'm sure he'll be there soon... I... I hope you feel better."

Ending the call, Jason goes straight to Rick, explains the situation, and Rick wastes no time in going to the house. Letting himself in, Rick quietly heads to where he knows Katie's room is. Tapping on the door, he cautiously enters, peeking in first. "Katie?" His voice is soft and gentle.

Approaching the bed, he eases down next to her, feeling her forehead. "What's wrong, hmm? Is it the medication, or something else?"


"How we doing this afternoon?"

Bret looks up at JT warily. "I don't know how "we" are doing, but I'm sore."

JT chuckles and starts checking Bret over. "Shoulder?"

"Hurts like you know what."

"Neck?"

"Feels better."

"Mm." JT checks around the neck brace. "Might not be as bad there as I first thought." He moves down to Bret's lower body, then starts to poke and prod his leg.

"That's sore," Bret mutters.

JT suddenly stops, his eyes wide. "Say what?"

"I said it hurts..." Then Bret's eyes widen as well. "That's... that's a good thing, right?"

"It sure is." JT's hope was returning. "Can you move your leg at all?"

Bret stares down at it and concentrates, suddenly realizing that he could lift it again.

A smile spreads on JT's face. "Well, well, well, looks like you were holding out on us."

Bret's eyes were wide. "How? I mean..."

JT shakes his head. "Could be a number of things. "I was hoping to see this. See, your back received quite a shock, and I was hoping when that shock wore off, that no permanent damage had been done. We'll have to keep an eye on this, but hopefully... you're looking at a complete recovery."

"That sounds awfully good." Bret grins. "How long am I gonna have to stay in here?"

"Depends. We're looking at at least a week right now but... keep up the good attitude and you'll be out of here in no time."


Clint paces the small room, the bundle still sleeping in his arms. Wendy was resting quietly in the next room with Cecilia sleeping as well.

Clint's eyes almost drift shut as he rocks Chase, his boots creating a soft tempo on the wood floor. The door opening brings him back to attention and he sees his dad.

Jim gives him a smile. "Hey... just wanted to see how you guys were holding up."

Clint tries to smile wearily. "We're okay."

"Rough night?"

"Mm." Clint nods. "Haven't gotten much sleep."

Jim approaches and strokes Chase's head lovingly. "Can't be this guy giving you trouble."

"Oh, no," Clint rolls his eyes. "Not him." He smirks with sarcasm. "It's Cecilia who's quiet. Chase is the one who's kept me up the last two nights."

Jim chuckles. "Your sister was the quiet one of you two, too."

"Yeah well..." Clint sighs. Their baby girl just didn't move much at all. She was peaceful, but her energy was low, proving Angel right. "Cecilia is too quiet."

Jim catches the seriousness in Clint's tone and sets a hand on his shoulder. "Hang in there."

"Yeah... I will."

"Need anything?"

"Naw... Angel's been in and out. We're okay."

"Alright. If you do need anything, just holler."

Choose

Looking at Trent for a long moment Thirteen plays with the leash in her hand for a moment just thinking about the question. Was she happy? For the most part yes, though she had her reasons not to be. She still had wants that wernt being filled, and things that confused her.

"Sometimes yes. But than there are reasons I am not to I guess."

Drawing silent and thinking for a moment Thirteen goes to say more but stops as she knows her question once again would not be answered so there was no point asking.

Taking a few steps back and clicking her toung to Trooper Thirteen gives a nod.

"I better get Trooper walked and go back before Ryder worrys about me."

Turning Thirteen makes her way down and around the parking lot a little before heading back inside. She felt safe with Trooper but still didnt venture far without someone with her.

Once again taking her hand and moving everything around Hope lays down 2 and picks up to more considering the options she had in her hand and how she wanted to play it out. Though she consintrated on the cards her mind was still working about Alec.

"Thirteen has say on what she does now too, and Gage is getting there slowly. They are aloud outside now, and Thirteen even has her own place to live. "

Finally putting her hand down Hope had a full house. Folding her own hands in front of her she just studys Alec across from her.

"Your making the choose to stay here Alec but not trying to show them anything differnt.Freedom...what is freedom? I am free, I do what I want when I want too. At the Agency there was no freedom they only made it seem that way. If you were free why are they trying to kill you now? Would you really want to go back to that? Wondering if each day you lived or died?"

Stretching a little in her chair Hope continues to watch Alec.

"You have a better freedom here Alec, an eternal freedom and there is hope if you just give it a chanse. Would you do that? At least try and if you dont like it and you think Jail is better you can have that?"

Laying her head down on the pillow again Katie closed her eyes from the sunlight that shown a little more into her room. She just wanted to sleep more.

"If you want to have Rick come and see me thats fine. I wont be into work today."

Happy?

As Jason waits, he grows more worried. Katie hadn't sounded good. Finally getting her back on the phone, he asks her with seriousness in his voice. "Does Rick need to come see you? He wanted to know if the meds were making you sick."


Alec folds his hands, the cuffs clinking on the metal table. He wasn't used to this type of conversation. He didn't know how to go up against it. Truth be told, he didn't know what kind of better things existed. He hadn't been like Gage in the Agency... he'd been allowed freedom. He'd had his good times and wild times on the town. He'd been able to do most what he pleased, while not on duty. It wasn't until now that he had started to realize that they were a bunch of back-stabbers. But Alec knew deep down that he didn't know what else was out there. He didn't know what it was like to have a family... to be loved... to live like the people around him lived. They seemed happy, even though they weren't gallivanting around. But what made them happy about following all those rules and the laws, he wasn't sure. He was curious... but wasn't sure about it.

Just watching the cards, he waits until they're dealt out again before picking his up. The variety stunk. He has to exchange four, and then shifted them around in his hand, waiting for Hope to show her cards first this time.

"I..." He stops and exercises his jaw muscles. "I'd just rather go back to what I had. At least I was free to do what I wanted. Gage - he's a misfit treated like some caged animal, he and that girl. But at least I had say on who I was and what I could do."


"Well it looks like Trooper likes being around you too," Trent muses to Thirteen. He cocks his head, unable to help his smile. "You're in a good place now... are you happy?"

More than planed

Looking over her cards at Alec Hope is quiet again thinking about her cards before placing some down and picking up more.

"Reese asked me to come here, but he did in no way ask me what questions I was to ask. So yes these questions to you are being asked because I want to ask them."

Placing down her cards as Alec does his, the Aces beat what she had and knows this round she had lost. But that didnt mean the game was over.

"As for an influance I have non and this has ntohing to do with it."

Picking up the cards and shuffling them herself Hope does it with ease showing she as well now what she was doing with a deck of cards.

"But the question is, would you want to see something better if given the chance?"

Giving a little jump not relizing Trent was there Thirteen twists around looking at Trent letting her eyes get use to the day light after being inside. Relizing it was Trent and Throoper didnt seem to upset Thirteen gives a small smile.

"Hi. Thanks."

Thirteen looks down at Trooper and gives him a gentil pat on the head before looking to Trent again.

"I look after him for Jason sometimes. It helps me go outside more too because I know Trooper will keep me safe."

More infomation offered than she had planed on shearing Thirteen found it strange that she liked offering information to Trent. She just felt comfortable around him.

Hearing Jason's voice on the other line Katie sits up in bed a little. Looking at the clock and seeing what time it was Katie hadnt relized how long she had been sleeping. She just felt so tired still and her head hurt.

"I am not feeling so good."

Katie falls silent again not really saying much. She didnt know what to say other than she wasnt feeling well. Though as she sad up a wave of unwanted emotions did make thereself known and Katie could feel her stomach churn.

"Jason hold on..."

Getting out of bed quickly Katie was happy that the bathroom was only across the hall as she bolted to it. Feeling her stomach revolt aganst the emotions this time it dosnt last to long. Cleaning up her face and running cold water on it Katie goes back into her bedroom and climbs back into bed before picking up the phone again.

"Sorry to put you on hold."

Nice dog

Alec quirks an eyebrow as he studies his cards and throws two down to take two more. "You're asking me questions because Reese told you to," he retorts. "Not because you want anything to do with me. You're helping out the Elite 'cause either you're getting paid, you owe them a favor, or you're trying to be nice so you can have an influence on your boyfriend's situation."

He glances up at her. "I hear he might not be working here much longer."

Pausing, he lays down his cards lazily without the fun of betting. He had two pairs, Ace high.

"I've never seen anything better to move on to," he answers her recent question.


Trent is leaning back against the brick wall, just standing in the shade alone... quietly. He'd checked in on Jeff and found him about the same. His brother was restless, but was still sick enough that he couldn't get up and move around for very long. Trent wasn't sure if he still should stay or not, but he was leaning towards returning to Texas, at least for now.

Hearing the door open, he jumps, startled as the massive dog emerges, then Thirteen. He watches them a moment, but knows he better make himself known, lest he scare the girl.

"Hi, Jasmine. Nice dog."


Jason taps his fingers on his desk, fidgeting with everything. He just wasn't settled. He didn't feel so badly, but he was worried about Katie. He didn't like it that she hadn't come in to work.

Finally he gives in and picks up the phone. After it rings several times, he hears a groggy answer. "Katie... it's me. I didn't want to wake you, I just... wanted to make sure you were okay?"

Playing

Thinking for a long moment Hope continues to watch and listen to Alec as she reaches for the cards that held been delt.

"Well I would guess its good we are not peaces of garbage. At least I dont believe you are, so for that reason alone, even if I do turn on the garbage despoil you wont be in there for get chopped up."

Hope just listens again for a long time getting a feel for Alec and understanding him. She had left this up to him, and now she didnt want to interrupt.

Opening her hand so she can see the cards better Hope looks them over before looking to Alec again she finally speaks.

"I think poker sounds like a good game to play. Fast, easy and gives us time for more games in our time limit. You dont always have to have bet with money to have fun. Sometimes its nice to just play with nothing to worry about losing."

Moving the cards around in her hand Hope draws silent again just moving her cards and looking up to see Alec every now and than.

Seeing the deeper side of Alec was differnt than most people she had seen and seeing the deep scars that Alec bore hurt to see anyone go through that.

"If you didnt got to jail Alec what would you do?"

Hope draws a card before throwing one away.

"Would you try to make a new better life for youself? Or would you even be willing to take your own life into your hands, and take the steps to move onto something better? My questions are not for interrogation but to simply to get to know you because I am intrested in you, and helping you. "

Looking at Ryder confused for a moment Thirteen looks at the way that Jason had walked and than back to Trooper as she pated his head.

"I hope they be ok!"

Not waiting for much of a reply Thirteen stands seeing Trooper go out the door.

"I'll take him out."

Following after the dag Thirteen finally caught up and took the leash. She liked taking Trooper outside she felt safe knowing the big dog was with her to keep her safe.

Poker

Alec can't help it that he's surprised when Hope pulls out a deck of cards. He stares at them a moment, then back up to her, listening to her. For once, he stays quiet. Something about this woman... there was something... He didn't know what it was or why it was there, but there was something there that could calm a man's spirit. Alec wasn't used to dealing with people like her, and he tried to keep his guard up.

After several quiet moments, he finally reaches out to take the deck. Though his hands were cuffed, he could still manage to shuffle the cards, and quiet well at that, proving he'd played a game or two in his life.

Still just shuffling, he keeps his eyes on the cards, but finds himself talking. It was strange - he really didn't want to talk, but he was doing it anyway.

"A piece of garbage is a piece of garbage no matter what it thinks," he retorts to Hope's earlier question. "You can tell a rusty piece of lettuce that it's queen for a day and it can even believe you, but in the end..." He mimics a nosedive with his finger. "...it's still the garbage disposal for it."

The cards flip together loudly as he continues to mix them and he finally looks up to meet Hope's gaze. "You may think you don't want me to go to jail." He scoffs. "I don't want me to go to jail either. But it's the same thing. I got pulled into the Agency when I was just a kid. Thought it was all fun and games until I killed a man. I was fourteen."

Fourteen. Something had changed that day. He'd lost all innocence. He'd never returned to the little boy that never had enough time to grow up.

Alec shrugs and starts dealing out the cards, not even caring what game they played. "I've been interrogated here countless times, and squeezed dry of any and all information I have. The Elite knows what kind of a man I am. And now I'm a traitor to the Agency too. It doesn't matter what I do or where I go... either I'll have a warden watching me like a hawk, or the Agency coming after me."

Though he spoke with a cocky air that implied he didn't care one way or the other, in his eyes was a look of pain... a look that proved a scar existed... a scar of rejection. He had trusted the Agency. He could say all day long that he always knew anyone in the Agency had to look out for themselves, but in the end, he had trusted them, and now he had been left for dead - worse, they'd even tried to kill him themselves.

"Now I know you're supposed to evaluate whether you think I ought to go to jail for my crimes, or to keep the Elite safe from my evil hands, but give yourself a break and just turn on the garbage disposal."

He looks at his cards, then back up to Hope. "Seeing as though I have nothing to bet with, we better play something other than poker."


Ryder sees Thirteen look at him, and he knows that she must be wondering about Jason's odd behavior. He shrugs a little. "Jason and Katie are having a few problems," he explains gently. He reaches out to scratch Trooper's head. "Hey, big guy. You feel it too, don't you?"

Trooper sighs deeply as if he understands, then turns to walk out of the cubicle, dragging his leash with him. Apparently, he needed to go outside.

Litte Room

Hope continues to look at Alec cocking her own head to one side but not in confustion only understanding, and trying to see deeper. Alec was a smart, good looking man but what was past that, what was held in his heart.

"Do you really believe your a peace of garbage?"

Reaching down in her her bag she had brought in Hope pulls out a fresh deck of cards and set them on the table.

"Do you like to play? I do. I'll play you a few rounds with you if you like. We dont have to talk about anything at all if you dont want. I'll leave it up to you. But truth be told, I dont want to see you go to jail Alec. I think we all do some wrong things and even if some people think we are nothing but garbage, I think there is more and everyone deserves to try again. Even you, your not a kid, and you have a mind of your own. Thats why its your choose."

Hope pushes the cards twords Alec letting him make the choice and choose what was to happen next. He wanted to make the choose, he wanted to make the desition...she would let him do what he wanted in the small room.

Charlotte smiles as she rubs her nose aganst Bret's before pulling away a little bit and giving a nod.

"Mmmmhmmm, They let me out so I could come see you. I think I like spending time with you more anyways."

Charlotte cant help the small laugh before she shifts a little on the bed.

"Do you need me to do anything for you?"

Giving a laugh as Trooper licks her face Thirteen trys her best to push the big dog away but cant with his big size and ends up falling over as he continues to lick her.

Finally though the kiss stop and the big Dog sits and waits. Watching Jason walk away Thirteen looks after him, than to Trooper, and than to Ryder. She had picked up on a bit of sadness in Jason, and didnt understand it.

Garbage

Jason finally gets to his feet after a little while of basic work on the computer. Fastening the leash on Trooper's collar, he leads the giant dog down the hall and to the main floor. But he doesn't go to the exit. Instead, he aim for the cubicle where Ryder and Thirteen were.

Ryder looks up as Jason approaches. "Well, g'day."

Jason nods. "I just... thought maybe Thirteen would like Trooper's company. He could use the attention." Letting Trooper go, the dog enters the cubicle to stick his face up into Thirteen's, giving her a wet kiss.

Jason grins a little before looking to Ryder again. "Did you... see Katie this morning?"

"Naw, mate, sorry. Checked on her before we left, but she was still in bed."

"Oh... okay." His shoulders drooping just a little, Jason heads back towards his own office again.


Landon grins at Charlotte, sticking around for just a few minutes longer. Seeing husband and wife distracted by each other, he slowly slips away.

Bret chuckles. "Wild rides are the best kind, right?" He sighs deeply, sore today. Every injury seemed to hurt, but he tries to ignore it. "So... out of work early today?"


Alec cocks his head to one side, lifting an eyebrow and giving Hope a once-over. "You're the shrink?" He shrugs. "Not bad, and of course I know why I'm here, I'm not an idiot."

He tilts back in his chair, then lets go, letting the legs drop back down loudly on the floor. "I'm here because I was with the Agency and now they're trying to decide what to do with me." He smirks. "It's nice to be something no one knows what to do with. It's like a piece of garbage that you really don't want to throw away because maybe you'll use it sometime, but it really isn't worth the space it takes up to keep it. So you wind up taking it to the dump."

He shrugs lamely, his eyes dull. He was so full of anger, but something deep, deep down had been broken. He wouldn't admit it. No, he wouldn't admit that he had been vulnerable enough to have anything broken, let alone his spirit. He would fight tooth and nail to escape, but on the inside... he knew it wouldn't matter. Here, he was a criminal. With the Agency, he was a dead man. Maybe he'd been stupid with Ryan, but the root of his actions still existed. Would he hurt those at TJY? Was he a risk? He was teetering on the fence, not knowing which side to fall on. But one thing was sure - he wanted to take care of himself.

"So don't bother wasting time on me," he ads gruffly. "All you'll do is find out I belong behind bars like the rest of the street dogs and that'll be that. Unless you're getting paid by the hour and want to stick around. If that's the case though, you should have brought a deck of cards."

Wild Ride

Opening one eye and then the other Katie looks from under the covers into the dimly lit room. A few cracks of sun light shown through But Katie didnt feel like letting them warm she skin today. She didnt want to be seen, she just wanted to Sleep for now, just a little more.

Entering the interrogation room Hope glances around to take in her surroundings and where she was just getting use to everything.

Sitting down across from Alec Hope is quiet for a long moment as she just watches Alec. Getting a feel for him she new the first few moments would be awkward and just a way to test the ground and see who Alec was.

"Hi Alec, My name is Hope Garrison. Do you know why your here?"

"Uncle Landon huh?"

Entering the room Charlotte wore a smile on her face. Now that the secret was out and Bret new a glow that wasnt there before was bright with Charlotte. It couldnt be described if someone tryed, and no words could describe the look it was just there.

Coming over Charlotte gives a kiss to Bret. She was dont at the caves for today, and now it was time to spend sometime with Bret.

"I think I might be scaired to leave my kid with you Landon...than again, I think I could see it too."

Giving a small chuckle Charlotte scoots onto the bed next to Bret her one arm over him as she head rested aganst his for a moment before looking up and into Brets eyes as she danced.

"I know your gonna be a great Daddy no matter what, and its something I am looking forward to do with you. I do have to say, out kid is gonna be in for a wild ride."

Uncle Landon

Bret chuckles again and runs his hand down Charlotte's face. "You know more than you think you do. Besides... it can't be that hard right? I mean... we're gonna be a family... a real family."

Maria had never wanted children with him, making Charlotte's enthusiasm all the more special.

He smiles before kissing her forehead. "I don't want to let you go to work but... since I'm stuck in here.... I better." He gives her hand a squeeze. "We're gonna be fine... this is a brand new adventure... and you know we like adventures." He winks at her. "Just take care of yourself and if you need anything, call..." His voice trails off lamely before laughing again. "Con?"


A day has rarely felt longer. A night has rarely been filled with such unrest. For some, it is the heatwave. For some, it's worries for their friends. For some, it's new worries of what will happen next and how they will be able to provide. For some, it's wondering if they took the right path. For some, it's the lingering doubts that they can accomplish what they set out to do.

The morning sun dawns dimly behind a veil of thin, gray clouds. The air is stale and thick as if waiting for something to happen. People all around move again, revived from the night, while others drag their feet. Everyone is on the same time frame, but not all are functioning at the same speed.


Jason trudges into his office and sinks down in his chair, closing his eyes. He'd had so little sleep last night, it was ridiculous. He'd thought that without a certain worry, he would sleep better. The only thing he could compare it to was moving from the city into the country. The atmosphere was just very different... enough to have an affect on one's sleep. He hadn't heard from Katie at all since yesterday morning. He was worried about her... but he'd been afraid to call. She was so upset with him... Then Jen had called him to say she was worried about Katie and that just made him feel worse. If he didn't see her today, he'd check on her. This wasn't supposed to be this traumatic... it should have been a smoother transition.


"Sit." Reese points to the chair in the interrogation room.

Alec rolls his eyes and sits as told, his hands cuffed in front of him. "Evaluation? Of what? My mind? You know they'll say I'm crazy."

"I don't care what she says," Reese retorts. "Either way, I trust her more than I trust you. So why don't you try to at least shape up your attitude once so you don't wind up getting your own hind end in jail?"

Alec slouches with a glare. He was so sick of this place. He had no where to go... no where to run... nothing to do... no freedom. He thinks back to his little episode with Ryan. He'd shown a moment of weakness there... he'd let down his guard as a result of his fear and confusion. But not again. Whether he would be kept here or go to prison, he would get himself out.

Reese steps out into the hall and nods to Hope. "He's all yours. I'm keeping the door unlocked and I'll be right out here, not to mention, we got you under cameras. So you're safe. If you need something, give a yell."


"That's awesome." Landon's smile was genuine as he leaned on his crutches, talking to Bret.

Bret nods, with a small smile. "Charlotte said it would change everything, but I think this changes even more." He gestures to himself. "I'm supposed to be able to be a father now? Provide? In a few months, I won't want Charlotte working, and I don't know about after the baby is born... But I can't even walk."

Landon's shoulders drop just a little. "I'm sorry... I keep thinking about if I'd done things differently, if I'd-"

"It's not your fault," Bret intervenes sternly. "It was Pat and we both know it. Your tire blew, but he didn't let me get around. He didn't care who he hurt."

Landon sighs. "Yeah, well... you'll pull through... you'll see."

"The doctor isn't so sure."

"Well then... then something will happen. C'mon, Bret... don't get yourself depressed, man. So you got a leg that won't work. That doesn't make you less of a man, husband or father for that matter. You'll find a way, I know you will. And with a firecracker like Charlotte around..." Landon grins. "It'll be okay."

Bret manages to return the grin. "Yeah, alright... I got eight months, right?"

"Exactly. Plenty of time to get back on your feet, save up money, fix up the extra room...." Landon's eyes twinkle with humor. "Tell you what. You can't get up and around enough come the next few months, you just call uncle Landon and I'll be there."

Bret studies his friend. They'd always been buddies, but it hadn't been all that close that they really shared their lives away from the track. But he could see Landon was being genuine now. "You really mean that."

"Of course I do." Landon nods. "For you or Charlotte? Anything."

Together

Looking back into her husbands eyes and seeing the light that had ignited, and that he was happy a smile makes its way to Charlotte's face. Her own eyes start to dance. She'd been so worryed that Bret would be upset that getting his reaction now was so relaxing.

Giving a small chuckle Charlotte gives a small kiss to Bret before resting her head with his again as she lets out a content sigh.

"Well, now that I know your alive and ok, I am excited and happy."

Charlotte's eyes go a little wide as she continues to look at Bret.

"I am scaired out of my pants too....I dont know that frit thing about having a baby. But I know I have you, and we get to go through it together."

Family

Bret is a little confused at first at Charlotte's tone, then a little worried, about some big change, then tests. Within the few moments that it takes her to tell him the news, he's already prepared himself for the worst. But as the actual truth comes out, he stares up at her, his eyes slowly widening. "You... we... really?"

Staring at her face he blinks before a smile slowly starts to spread on his face. "That... that's... I mean..." He blinks again. "We're gonna be a family... I'm gonna be a daddy..."

A laugh escapes as a new kind of light sparks in his eye. He zeros in on the worry in his wife's tone though, and manages to pull her back down close to him again. "You are.... amazing." Giving her another kiss, he rests his forehead against hers, still smiling. "How do you feel? I mean... you're okay with this? Like... holy cow."


Scott ends his end of the call and sighs deeply. Something just wasn't right. Katie had just admitted she wasn't okay, but had then shut him off. He didn't like it. But there wasn't a whole lot he could do about it. Was it just the Agency she was struggling with? Was there more? Why had she called him specifically?

"Everything okay?"

Scott looks into the kitchen and shrugs. "I don't know... not really... but what am I supposed to do?"

"Katie alright?" Gunner wanders in, finished eating.

"I don't think so... but I'm not sure there's anything anybody can do."

Dont worry

Giving a small smile Charlotte holds his hand in her own. I dont have to be to work for about an hour or so. I asked if I could come in a little later because I needed to talk to you about something.

Charlotte draws silent for a long moment as she contemplated different things. She wanted to tell Bret about there child because she was a little excited and scared herself, but also because it was there. Than on the other hand she wanted to wait because she new this would put more stress on him that she didnt want to cause. Two good reason, and the out come of both differnt. What one was better than the other?

Seeing the look of Bret waiting for her reason on what she was talking about Charlotte see the look in his eyes. She had to tell him, this would be his child too, he had a right to know.

"Bret what I am going to tell you is pretty life changing but I dont want you to get upset, or worryed or anything...."

Charlotte continues to hold Bret's hand as she looks deep into the eyes she had fallen in love with.

"Bret, the morning of the race I was late getting there because I was having some tests done. Alot of differnt things run in my family and I hadnt been feeling good so I thought it was better to be safe than sorry. But the test came back with something I wasnt expecting..."

Looking down for a moment Charlotte drew quiet before jsut coming out with what she needed to say.

"I found out I am four weeks pregnant."

Slowly looking up again Charlotte searchs Bret eyes.

Thinking about what Scott said for a long moment Katie didnt know what to say. She tryed to process what Scott said in her head understanding it.

"I..I dont know Scott, but I dont think so."

Katie is silent again for a moment. Her mind was going from one thing to the next not being able to land on one thing alone.

"Don't worry about me ok. I miss you Scotty. Don't lose your hope ok? I better go now, tell Gunner thanks and thanks to you as well."

Hanging up the phone Katie sets it down on her desk before climbing into her bad and snuggling into the covers what Scott said still on her mind. She felt tired, mentally, physically, maybe just a little sleep would be good for her.

Time

Bret makes himself grin, forcing his mind not to think about why he was stuck in bed. "I think we'd probably get caught before we hit the fresh air. But I'm glad to know you'd go criminal with me if I asked you."

Running his hand down the side of Charlotte's face, he grows a little more serious. "You better get to work or you'll be late... thanks for bringing me some real food."


So that was it. Scott takes a deep breath and wanders slowly into the living room, dwelling on Katie's question. "I didn't."

Sinking down on the couch, he pulls his legs up under him to curl up, quickly joined by Domino.

"The memories ever go away... they're always there, even now. How I made it through? With people like you... Dalton... Hope..."

He thinks for a moment, unsure just how affected Katie was from being taken. "Talking things out made the problems real... and once I knew they were real, I could conquer them. It takes time, Katie... the fear... it just has to go away on its own. But... it's different for everybody"

He stops again, listening to the silence on the line. "Are you... okay?"

Memories

Giving a grin, Charlotte gives a side long glance at the wheelchair before looking back at Bret. Her grin growing even more as she was considering it.

"You really want to and I will, you just give me the word."

Charlotte would be all to happy to get Bret out of here for a few hours before she had to go back to work. She missed seeing her husband smile and she just missed him in general. Any time away from here would be nice.

Sinking back down on her bed it was good to hear Scott's voice. He'd always been a good friend, and she missed him at work.

Hearing Scott's question Katie hated to lie to her friend and she did have another reason for calling but she felt bad for maybe digging at Scott's own scars.

"Well...I think...I...I am sorry if this brings up bad memories but I...I wanted to asked you after the Agency took you...how did you become ok? Like make the memories go away, and not be scaired anymore?"

Nurse

"I'm... I'm alright." Scott turns around and throws Gunner a look of question, but Gunner just raises his hands and lets them flop back down on the table. Scott smirks and concentrates on the call again. "Domino is too... everything is fine... Nothing new... always the same."

He pauses, frowning a little. "Katie, you haven't called before... you sure everything is okay?"


"Oh, you sweet woman." Bret takes a big whiff of the Taco Bell food and lets his eyes roll back in his head. "You are heaven in a divine package."

Reaching up with his good arm, he guides Charlotte back down for another kiss, his fingers creeping to the back of her neck. He pulls back just a little to see her eyes again. "There's a wheelchair over there... you could play nurse and wheel me on out of here so we could both play hooky today."

Real

Hearing Scott's voice Katie almost gave a smile. It was good to hear his voice. It had been so long and she had missed her friend.

"Hey Scotty, don't worry nothing wrong. I guess I just wanted to hear your voice. How are you? Hows is Domino?"

Katie new her words wernt much but she wanted to listen to Scott talk, and see how he was first before really saying much more. He was her friend, and seeing how he was, was more important to her than her own problems. Friends could never be replaced and to forget there well being would be a crime.

Coming closer to the bed Charlotte was happy for Bret's humor. It was nice to see at least his spirits were up a little more today.

"The only one I am getting dressed up for it you."

Leaning in close to Bret Charlotte press her lips to his just bathing in her husband. She had been lonly at him without him and hates leaving him but work called and she had to go. Pulling away and resting her head aganst Bret's Charlotte's other hand comes up along side him to hold up a Taco Bell bag.

"I thought you could use some real food!!"

Date?

Gunner's one eyebrow rises as he hears Katie's voice and her request. Cleaning his teeth with his tongue, he looks back to the lunch table where Scott still was. "Mmm..." He thinks, weighing all the consequences he could think of. He'd let Scott talk to Hope... but then that was a little different... at least he thought so.

Seeing Scott look up at him with question, he meets his dull gaze that had a spark of hope in it. "Alright, fine. But not a word to anyone, do you understand?"

He riskily tosses the cordless phone to Scott before flopping back down in his seat. "It's Katie."

Scott's eyes widen and he stands up, wandering a few feet away. "Katie?" He was afraid something was wrong, that she was calling.


Bret is propped up in bed and turns from his lunch that he was shoving around and making patterns in with his fork. "Hey you." A smile automatically comes to his face, seeing his wife. The last couple hours, he'd found himself a bit lonely. "I feel terrible. You, on the other hand, look like you're going out on the town. Got a date with a guy I don't know about?"

Phone Call

Not touching the tea Jen made Katie only holds her. She'd already hurt Jen's feelings once today she didnt want to do it again. Just listing to Jen Katie was silent though she had to admit she missed seeing Kyle and his liveliness too.

As Jen gets up and starts to leave all Katie can do is watch her as a tear ran down her face. What was wrong with her. Why did she feel so out of control?

Taking Jen's glass and her own Katie walks to the sink and rinses the glasses off before placing them down to be washed. Katie just wanted to cry but her tears were gone, she wanted to talk to someone but she just chased someone away who was trying, Katie felt so messed up.

Making her way to her bedroom Katie flops down on her bed face first before looking over the edge a little. Spotting something she hadnt seen in a while Katie pulls the red photo album from the floor and onto her lap as she sits up.

Flipping through Katie cant help the smile that forms on her face as she see all the pictures and all the good memories that were captured in time. Coming to the pictured of memories long forgotten Katie runs her fingers over Scott and Her face as they were captured in a kiss.

Closing the book another tear rolled from Kaite's face. She missed the time when she was happy, shouldnt she be now still? Katie had, had many close calls before why was this differnt?

Reaching for her phone Katie takes it just holding it for a long moment before punching in a number. Waiting for a long few seconds Katie didnt think anyone would answer till finally a deep voice did. It was one she expected but was still surprised and caught off guard not hearing it that much. Though her voice lacked much excitement and held mixed emotions Katie tryed her best not to sound to much of a downer.

"Hey Gunner, its Katie. I know I cant talk to Scott but I was wondering if just this once you would let me."

Giving a nod and a small smile to Jason Thirteen gives a small wave.

"Thanks!"

Bending down to pick up the leash and closing the door behind her Thirteen takes off down the hallway after Trooper calling to him.

"Wait, come back I need to put this one you before we go out Trooper."

Giving a small laugh Thirteen finally catchs up with Trooper at the door.

Entering the hospetil Charlotte was a little later than exspected but she was there non the less. Making her way up the steps and into the hospital she quickens her pase till she gets to Bret's room. Her hair done up nicly and dressed a little snazzier than the normal day out Charlotte wairs a smile on her face as she enters Bret's room.

"Hey Babe, Sorry I am late. How are you feeling today?"

Mirror

Jason lifts his eyes to the door and gives just a little look of surprise. He couldn't mistake anybody for Katie, but at first glance, Thirteen did give him a start. They weren't close enough to be twins... but maybe sisters and definitely closely enough resembled to be cousins. It was interesting that the Agency would have raised her and she happened to look like Katie.

Blinking, Jason brings himself from his thoughts and tries to figure out just what Thirteen had asked him. "Oh... a walk?"

Trooper's ears perk and he lifts his head, looking to Thirteen, but he doesn't move unless told to.

Jason shrugs. He'd been neglecting his dog lately anyway. "Trooper, you want to go with her?"

Trooper stands up and wags his tail, looking to Jason for permission.

"Alright." Jason nods. "Give her your leash and have fun."

The dog stretches then shakes himself all over, loosening up from laying around all day. Trotting to the door, he bends his head to pick up his leash in his teeth and he takes it to Jason.

"Not me," Jason corrects and points to Thirteen. "Go with her."

Trooper has a little trouble turning around behind the desk, but then readily goes to Thirteen, dropping the leather leash in her hand. He gives a little woof before slipping past her and bounding down the hall.

"Better catch him." Jason laughs. "He's liable to find a way to operate the elevator and go for a walk himself." He doesn't care to worry about getting in trouble with Reese... he'd been warned to keep the dog on a leash after what happened with Hal, but he also knew that right now, Trooper wasn't protecting anybody. Jason would deal with any fallout.

Taking a deep breath, he turns back to his computer. Why was he having so much trouble concentrating today?


Trent stuffs his hands in his pockets and wanders the parking lot at TJY. He'd checked on Jeff, then didn't have a whole lot to do. He was thinking about taking a walk downtown, but he lacked the motivation. He wanted to go home. But for Rosetta, he'd stay and keep an eye on Jeff.


Though Jen's shoulders drop a little at Katie's determination not to talk, she manages a small smile. "I got better than a tic tac. Come on." Helping Katie up, she guides her to the living room couch. "Now just take it easy, I'll be right back."

As promised, she returns a few minutes later with some hot tea, but it was different than what Katie had made earlier. "Here... this will help settle your stomach."

Sitting down next to Katie, she sips her own tea. "It's a recipe Kyle taught me. I don't know where he got it from, but I remember a few years go, Mom and Dad were gone and I got sick, and Kyle took care of me."

A smile creases her lips. "I miss that crazy guy, ya know?" She manages a slight laugh. "Nowadays I have to read What's Up in order to know where he is and how he is. I hardly hear from him anymore."

She gives a shrug, trying not to let it show too much how much she missed her brother and how confused she was that he didn't stay in touch. "Oh well... I guess we all move on, huh? We choose different roads... different goals... we all grow up sometime... Guess I just never thought he and I would be apart. I know I got Mike, but... I don't know... being twins, Kyle and I always just had something special."

A quiet comes over the living room, but it was a fairly peaceful one. Jen is quiet for a while, and finally glances at her watch. She knew that Katie wasn't going to talk to her... she didn't feel like she'd done much good by coming... maybe she'd just made things worse. Maybe she shouldn't be as stubborn as she had been earlier. "Um... I guess I'll leave you be, alright?" She stands up, leaving her empty tea cup. "Just... if you need anything, call me, okay? Try to get some rest."

She gives Katie's shoulder a squeeze before heading for the door. She didn't know what else she could do... she'd tried her best.


Scott stares himself in the mirror. He'd rolled out of bed late this morning... that was getting to be the norm. He'd been down and lethargic, then he'd picked himself back up again, but now he'd been waiting so long to see the light at the end of the tunnel that the depression was knocking at the door once more.

"Scott! Lunch!"

He sighs as he puts his one contact in to cover his blind eye, then puts on his glasses, combing back his damp hair. "Yeah... coming."

Tick-Tack

Looking back at Ryder Thirteen gives a small nod. She didnt really know why Katie was having such a hard time but she felt bad that she was. Thinking for a long moment and remembering how Ryder helped her when she was not doing good Thirteen goes through some differnt things in her own help. She wanted to help make Katie feel better.

"Maybe can we bring something back to the house for Katie so she will feel better?"

Sitting back in her chair again Thirteen's eyes roam the TJY floor as her eyes go from one cubicle to the next as she mentally says there names. She had gotten use to being here now, and even though she still wouldn't take to anyone here she had listened and gotten to know there names, there faces, and what they did here at TJY.

Hearing Ryder's question to her Thirteen gives a small nod before standing from the chair. A little more and more each day she was starting to do things on her own even if she was shaky about it. She was starting to learn that you dont always need to run away when you get scared.

"Ok, I'll go see if maybe he will let me."

Cautious Thirteen gets up from her chair and slowly walks down the isle looking at all the people as she went. Getting to Jason's office she knocks on the door before poking her head into the dimly lit office. In a timid voice she asks.

"Jason, can I take Trooper for a walk please?"

Seeing her friend laying on the floor by the desk Thirteen gives a smile and a small wave to him.

Continuing to just leave over the tolit Katie hears Jen's words and is chokes her up inside. It was nice to have her friend here even if she didnt want her to be. It was nice to know someone cared so much that they refused to leave. Yet at the same time it made Katie aggravated that she wouldn't go.

Finished losing her lunch Katie backs up a little and leans against the wall. Closing her eyes for a long moment as she trys to let the headach pass. It was so strange not to feel Jason, she hated it. Opening one of her eyes she turns her head to Jen.

"You can stay than, but I still dont want to talk about it."

Closing her eye again to block out the light Katie is just quiet for a long moment. Though right now she was in a dark place in her own mind her humor tryed its best to break through.

"You would happen to have a tick-tack would you?"

Friendship

Jen can't help the look of hurt that crosses her face. She knew what Katie had told her the night before, even if there was no willingness to discuss it today. She knew the look in Katie's eye was more than just being upset with her boyfriend. Yet since talking on the phone, she was being told to go away.

"No." Jen makes no move to leave. "If you think I can't see you when you're down, then we're not as good a friends as I thought we were. Friendship means sharing bad with good, whether we're covered in smiles or covered in vomit. Pushing me away isn't going to help you any, no matter what you believe. You're trying to make it through this alone, Katie, and it's just making it worse. I won't turn my back and let you do that to yourself. Stop denying the fact that you need help."

Jen's eyes flash with a deep love for her friend. She hurt because she was being pushed away, and she hurt because Katie hurt. She'd been through this once before with her brother. Only that time, she'd actually walked away, leaving him to try and take his own life. She wasn't going to do it again.


Jason sighs deeply and leans back in his chair, closing his eyes. Alone in his office once more, it was quiet again. Was there more? What had she meant? Was there more to Katie's moodiness lately? How was he supposed to know what it was? Ever since she'd woken up at the hospital, there was a corner that she hadn't allowed him to see... something she kept pushing him away from and being unwilling to say what it was. He'd always assumed it was just her mood or something personal he didn't need to know. Was it something else? If it was, then why wouldn't Katie have just told him? They used to tell each other everything.

Shaking his head, he knows he needs to get back to work. That's what he was getting paid to do, not sit around and dwell on a tiff with his girlfriend.


Ryder looks up from his computer, giving Thirteen a sympathetic shrug. "I don't know. I think... she's going through a rough time right now." He'd heard some murmurings, and he knew what was going on between Katie and Jason. He could imagine that she'd been pretty upset.

"We'll just give her some space right now, okay? You want to go see if Jason will let you give Trooper a walk?"

Hero's

Misty gives a nod and a smile to Jason though she could tell his scarcasem was meant for one person she was sad to see her friend hurt. In her eyes nether person was right or wrong. Though Katie hadnt said it since the moment she had been back from work instead of taking time off she came right back. The look in her eyes she had seen before when she had seen what the Agency did to people, and Jason he was just doing what he though was right going blindly without knowing Katie's pain.

Standing Misty new her short break was up and she had to get back now. She only wished she could of been more help to her friend.

"I guess, being in a relationship that really means something to you can really change a person. Even someone like me."

Standing Misty starts to leave Jason's office. Getting to the door she stops turning to Jason with a small friendly smile. Her voice held a serous, and the meaning to her word something to consider.

"Make sure before your ready to throw in the towel Hotshot you find out whats really wrong with Katie. You might be surprised with the answer. Sometimes when bad things happen and we are meant to the Hero's its hard to admit we are not ok."

With that Misty opens Jason's office door and exits making her way down the hall and to the infirmary once again.

Still sitting over the tolite Katie waits not sure if this round was over or not. She was thankful for Jen's kindness, and for being there but it embarrassed her even more.

Alone...

"Jen, you should go now please. I know you were trying to help but...I dont need you seeing me like this. Please just go."

Kaite's voice was no more than a whisper and though she new her words seemed a little harsh it was better if she was alone.

Looking over at Katie's cubicle for a fourth time Thirteen see no sigh of Katie yet. She had been keeping her eye out for her return. She wanted to talk to her about helping her, but for that last hour and a half there was no sigh of her return.

Turning back to Ryder Thirteen looks to him with question.

"Is Katie going to be coming back to work today? Or is she done for the day?"

Every once in a while

Jen is startled by Katie's quick movements, and her pulse quickens. Katie hadn't seemed that sick... Her heart ached for her friend.

Standing, Jen walks slowly to the bathroom. Entering, she kneels down next to Katie and gently rubs her back. "You're okay," she soothes. "Just let it come. You'll be alright."


Jason reaches over and turns Misty's hand to get a better look at the ring. He grins a little. "Carson Banks, ready to tie the knot, eh? Who would have thought?" He nods, happy for her. "Congratulations. Be sure to tell Rick - I think he'll be glad to see you two finally married."

As Misty continues, Jason's teasing drops off a little, his eyes flickering. "Misty Miller now has relationship advice? That's a new one. I'm sure Carson's glad you came to that conclusion though. Every once in a while, it's nice for a guy to know he's supported in something."

He hadn't meant to be sarcastic, but too late, he knows he had been. He just shakes his head a little, moving on. "Good for you. I hope you two will be happy."

Deeping meaning

Hearing that her friend was doing well made Katie feel good. She deserved the best and she was happy that Mike was that for her. Jen had been though so much it was her time to shine now.

As the conversation comes back around to her Katie figgits in her chair uncomfortable for a moment. Wishing the conversation was not on her again.

"We are ok."

Katie stands and goes to put her cup in the sink. Just standing there for a long moment looking out the tiny window letting the wave of sickness pass.

"I am happy things with you are Mike are going well. He's a nice guy."

Feeling the wave of sickness was not going to pass Katie can feel her stomach revolting aganst the cookie and tea she had. Quickling exiting the kitchen Katie makes her way to the bathroom as the memories make her way known and the musty smell enters her noise.

"He's dead you know, with out your emotions he's dead and soon your going to be dead too." The cold stone eyes looked into hers. They seemd to see into her soul as they icy gaze penetrated hers. The words that whispered into her ear gave her chills.

Just making to the tolite Katie tryed not to lose it, but there was not stoping it. The emotions came and so did the sickness.

Standing and looking across the desk as Reese Hope gives a small nod.

"Well not with everything thats happened my schedule is pretty free. I was advised to cancel a lot of my appointments and though I didnt want to it was probably best. So tomorrow would be great."

Holding her hand out to Reese for a handshake the smile was still firm on her lips. Though alot was going on, Hope did her best not to let it bring her down. She new things would be ok.

"Thank you as well."

Misty gives a small nod at Jason though cant help but take note on his cold tone for a moment. She felt bad for him, and she felt bad for Katie too. They both had been through so much it would suck to see it end here and like this.

"Mmm...I didn't think you were. You've always been the strong one. Just wanted to make sure."

Sitting up a little straighter Misty gives a smile. Maybe a subject change could be nice. Holding out her hand to Jason she lets her ring sparke as she looks up to him.

"On a lighter note I stopped and listened to Carson for once instead of listing to my own gut and what I wanted and he finally asked me. I guess sometimes its better to put aside our own wants and just stop, look, and listen to how the other feels. If you look past the outside shell to the deeper meaning it can explain alot."

Compromise

Jen smiles a little to hide her disappointment that Katie wasn't willing to talk about what was bothering her. Jen knew that the night before at the concert, her friend had wanted so badly to say more but had held back. Now she had locked herself tight again. But Jen couldn't force her to communicate if she didn't want to.

"Mike and I are doing well." She grins as she continues to nibble on a cookie. "He's been kinda busy with work and whenever he comes over to my house or I go to his, he winds up falling asleep, he's been so tired. He feels bad, but... at least I get to spend time with him." She shrugs. "That's the main thing... I mean... sometimes I want more attention... sometimes I wish he'd call me a little more often but... I know he cares about me and he's doing his best so... yeah."

She giggles. "Took him long enough to ask me out, I can't expect anything else to happen for a while. We're good though... we're learning to compromise... that one was a hard one for me. I didn't realize I was selfish until I started seeing that he was doing everything for me all the time and I wasn't giving back. He didn't complain but... I started to see that relationships are all about compromise... it's a two-way street, ya know? After I figured that one out, things were better and they keep getting better."

She cocks her head after taking a sip of tea. "What about you and Jason? I hardly ever see you two apart."


Reese nods. "Great. Really, any time is good. The sooner the better, though I know your schedule must be pretty busy. I mean, I'd even start tomorrow at least with one of the men. Probably we'll tackle Alec first - he may be in for prison time but I want your help with him especially. You tell me when though - we'll work on your time table with this one."


Jason quirks an eyebrow and leans back in his chair, almost skeptically. "I'm... fine... just fine." He pauses, studying Misty's face. He knew that she knew what had been going on. It wasn't like it was a secret, and she spent most of her time in the infirmary.

"Just because Katie's having a hard time dealing with this, doesn't mean I am."

Evaluations

Grabbing a cookie herself and taking a bite from it Katie keeps her eyes on her tea for a long moment as a strange silence lingers. One lady knowing a secret, and the hoping it would be brought up.

Hearing Jen talk once again and the words she said Katie new it would only have been moments before Jen said something. Thats how Jen was she cared for her friends and though Katie was thankful her friend this was the last thing she wanted to talk about right now.

"Thanks Jen, if means alot you care and all but...I dont really want to talk about it."

Giving a half smile Katie trys to give Jen a half smile letting her know she was ok even if it was just for a moment.

Taking a sip of her tea the silence lingers on again until Katie looks up at Jen again.

"So how is everything with you and Mike? You guys look cute together."

Hope can't help the smile that forms on her face. She was happy Reese still wanted her to evaluate the men for him. This was her job, and what she lived for.

"I accept than. It was just in my own best entrust and yours to let you know. That way if any questions were asked, you wouldnt be left in the dark."

Gathering her paper up again and giving a nod Hope was happy for Reese's understanding nature. He had a big heart that had given many people second chances. It was rare to see that, but it was nice when you did to know that people like him really did exist.

"Ok, just let me know when you want me to do those evaluations. My court hearing is next Friday so we have a week and a half."

Entering and sitting down in the chair across from Jason it had actully been a while since Misty had sit and talked with Jason. She new maybe now he would need a friend more than ever.

"I just wanted to come and see how you were doing! I know Rick came to see you, but well...I thought maybe you could use a friend."

Misty new Jason never would addmit to anyone if he did in fact need a friend to talk to but she also new that she ran a close second to Katie on how close she was to Jason.