Left out

Gunner leans back and listens quietly to Bree reading. He really didn't know what was going on around him. But something about Bree's voice was like a soothing balm to his emotional wounds. It didn't matter what she was reading - it didn't really register with him anyway. But her voice was cool and quiet.

His shoulders start to relax, and his eyes droop closed. At Bree's question, he shakes his head slowly. "It... sounds... nice." His body too tired to keep trying with figuring out his lethargic brain, begs for rest. Without even realizing it, he'd leaned over, and his head was resting on Bree's shoulder.

It didn't take him long to fall unto a drugged sleep as she read. He wouldn't wake before she left for work.


"So, you gonna let Dan have off tonight so we can go bowling?" Jade leans on the stall door, looking at her dad.

Mick pauses his cleaning and sighs, wiping his sweaty brow. "We got a lot of work to do around here, Jade. I can't promise you anything."

"But, Dad! He has to have a break sometime, and besides, what did you do before he was hired?"

"Dan signed on full-time here - you can't just come and go at a ranch like this. And before he came, we had three other guys who are now gone. I can't just not use Dan because you guys want to go bowling."

Jade frowns. "You've got something against him, don't you?"

"Of course I don't."

"Well, what is it then?"

Mick shakes his head and returns to working. "I don't have time to stand here and argue."

Jade opens her mouth, but then realizes there's no point. She could just hope Dan could go.It wouldn't be as fun without teams. Trudging back out of the barn, she flops down on a bale of straw. Maybe it really wasn't her dad that was bothering her. Maybe it was just the fact that she had yet to ask if she could live here. She hadn't told him everything. All she wanted now was to go have some fun for a distraction and it was frustrating when things got in the way.

She'd hardly even seen Dan at all the last couple days, he'd been so busy. Katie and Jason had each other, and were spending time alone or with Jeff. Clint and Wendy were together too, now with a family to tend to.

For the first time, Jade felt lonely here... left out. It was no one's fault, and no one should change anything - it just was... different. Leaning her head back, she watches the clouds drift by, She needed something better to do.


Kyle looks at the double doors of the large brick building. Several other cars were in the parking lot, signaling that the band was here. He glances to Alice hesitantly. "Well..." He takes a deep breath. For all he knew, the band played celtic punk and he'd turn around and walk away with nothing changed. "Here goes nothing."

Getting inside, the interior is dim. The multi-purpose building had several halls and tiled floors. Hearing a drumset, Kyle quirks an eyebrow."Guess we follow our ears."

Walking slowly, he leads the way down the hall, finally coming to an open door to a medium-sized room. Chairs were stacked up to the sides, and a small stage held the band.

"Hey! You made it!"Erik comes to greet them, smiling at both Kyle and Alice.

Kyle grins a little, hanging back to gain courage from Alice to stay. "Yeah... figured I better come see what you were talking about."

"Fantastic. We usually practice in Theo's garage, but for today, we decided we should have some room to breath."

Kyle shrugs. "I'm used to practicing in a basement. You have to rent this place?"

"Naw. I know somebody who pulled a string or two." Erik chuckles. "It's who ya know. Come on... I'll introduce you..." He smiles at Alice. "I have a feeling you're a big part in this, so please... come too."

Kyle's hand finds hers and gives it a squeeze. He normally wasn't fearful of new things or people, but today... this felt so different. He was facing a big giant today.


"Wait! But... I... Carson!!" Ryder stands with apron in hand, watching Carson head out the door of Mom and Pop's. This was now the fourth time he'd done this to him! He looks back to the table at Thirteen. "Well... so much for a lunch date. Want to help me back here?"


Carson jogs from his car to the TJY entrance, letting himself in. He makes a quick job of going to the infirmary to find Misty at her desk. Leaning over her shoulder, he gives her a long kiss, ending with a teasing grin. He never showed up during the day, especially over lunch. "I got forty-five minutes. What's this feisty sheila say to going ou with a bloke like me for some food?"


Eli leans back against the wall at the head of the bed, and brings a leg up close to rest one elbow on his knee. His other leg was stretched out as he turned another page of his book. He'd been trying to get through the novel for a while now, so stuck with nothing to do for several days, gave him the opportunity to read more.

He hadn't thought after giving blood that he'd really have to stay there as long as they'd said, but he'd found out quickly that his body was much more tired than anticipated. While his sister had drifted in and out of consciousness, he'd slept away many hours himself. He was just glad that the doctor had allowed him to stay in th same room as Ryan. So far, she hadn't been awake or lucid enough to speak, and Eli wanted to be there for when she was.

He turns another page and sighs. At least he'd been allowed back his own clothes, and his bike had been put under roof. He reaches for a glass of orange juice, pausing to look at his sister again. Setting the glass back down, he swings his bare feet to the floor and puts his book aside.

Walking just a couple feet, he sits down on the edge of Ryan's bed. He straightens a strand of her hair and sighs. "Don't forget to come back to us."

Stars

Walking down the hall Bree checks behind her to make sure Gunner was keeping up not wanting to walk to fast. Setting his float down on the little nightstand next to the books by the bed Bree goes to the window along with Gunner. Seeing her hand print she gives a little smile before turning to listen to Gunner about the stars.

"Sometimes clouds can be just as pretty as stars. They don't shine but they are puffy and calming. Vampires like the clouds more too."

Turning to sit on the edge of the bed Bree lets out a small sigh as she just looks at her friend for a long moment. He didn't belong here, just like she didn't belong here. Yes maybe Gunner needed to be kept safe from himself but he didnt need to be drugged not like this.

Though she wanted to break down and comfort him Bree also just wanted to be herself but at this point and with the way Gunner must be feeling right now on these drugs she didnt know if it would make him feel worse.

"Right now with how you feel you could very well be dreaming. But I am here with you thats not a dream. I'll stay with you will I have to leave for work."

Taking one of the books from the night stand Bree flips through it quit for a moment before coming to one page with a picture that had many starts on it along with what looked like some kind of dust or smoke. Moving just a little bit and giving a gentil little push to Gunner Bree sits up on the bed the same way he was leaning her back aganst the wall so he could see the book too.

In a soft low voice that was soothing she started to read from the page hope it would help Gunner just a little if anything.

"The constellation of Orion holds much more than three stars in a row. A deep exposure shows everything from dark nebula to star clusters, all imbedded in an extended patch of gaseous wisps in the greater Orion Molecular Cloud Complex. The brightest three stars on the far left are indeed the famous three stars that make up the belt of Orion."

Stopping for a moment Bree looks down at Gunner now sure if he wanted her to continue to not. but she was sure if he did want her to he would let her know.

Laying her free hand on Gunner's shoulder Bree rubs it for a moment before just letting it rest there. Looking back to the page once again Bree starts to read again.

"Just below Alnitak, the lowest of the three belt stars, is the Flame Nebula, glowing with excited hydrogen gas and immersed in filaments of dark brown dust. Below the frame center and just to the right of Alnitak lies the Horsehead Nebula, a dark indentation of dense dust that has perhaps the most recognized nebular shapes on the sky. On the upper right lies M42, the Orion Nebula, an energetic caldron of tumultuous gas, visible to the unaided eye, that is giving birth to a new open cluster of stars. Immediately to the left of M42 is a prominent bluish reflection nebula sometimes called the Running Man that houses many bright blue stars. The above image, a digitally stitched composite taken over several nights, covers an area with objects that are roughly 1,500 light years away and spans about 75 light years."

Giving a little thoughtful grunt Bree gives a small smile.

"Thats actually quite interesting I can see why you like reading these books. Would you like me to keep reading or want me to stop?"



Some information for this post was taken from Space Fellowship, written by Matt, on September 30th, 2009. The link is as follows: http://spacefellowship.com/2009/09/30/picture-of-the-day-orion-in-gas-dust-and-stars/

Dreaming?

The nurse has no problem in letting Bree take Gunner to his room - probably because it was not a threatening action.

Gunner slowly gets up, a little wobbly at first as the room spins and he has to get his bearings. He really had no idea what Bree's intentions were, but he couldn't figure out the words to ask, and somewhere he felt that he could trust her.

Grabbing the book to take along, he follows close to Bree, shuffling down the hall, around the corner, and down another short ways to his room. Entering, he just stands dumbly for a moment, turning to look at Bree as if asking what on earth they were doing there, if he was supposed to be leaving.

The rest if the books were on the nightstand, and the outline of Bree's hand was taped to the window. A bunch of paper had been torn to pieces, but on closer look, they all shaped numbers and a couple capital letters. Gunner had obviously wanted to jot down something, but without a pen that was his only way.

"There's nothing in the northern sky," he mumbles. "Not past midnight."

He looks to the window. "But there are clouds today. No stars."

Sighing deeply, he sinks down onto his bed, slowly leaning over until he was curled on his side. His head hurt, trying to think so much. "Am I... dreaming?"

Rest

Bree was happy to see Gunner drink the float. At least he would drink and eat for her that was important. It hurt, oh how it hurt to see him like this when only a few days ago it had been so much different.

"Your right Marge does, we are going to have to think up something good. Maybe a crazy request for dinner, or spiders in her hair or something."

Leaning a little closer and watching Gunner Bree's heart ached for him. She hated seeing Gunner like this when she new he shouldnt be.

"Oh Gunner, I wish I could. You will go home soon though."

Forming a plan in her head Bree already got a picture, and an idea of something to help Gunner. Her friend, her only friend.

"Come on let me take you back to your room so you can rest off these drugs. I wont leave if you dont want me to ."

Standing Bree turns to one of the nurses giving a nod and keeping her voice strong to show that she wouldnt take No.

"I am taking Gunner back to his room. He needs to rest."

Please

Gunner doesn't move when Bree comes. He heard what she was saying, and he wanted to respond, but it was as if all his senses had been shut down.

He blinks slowly and swallows, feeling her hand on his face. He felt like screaming... yet at the same time, he felt nothing.

Opening his mouth. he wants to say something, but suddenly it was as if he didn't even know what language to use. Rubbing his eye, he shakes his head, wanting to be rid of this horrid feeling, but it doesn't work. The only thing that seemed to be functioning normally was his taste buds, and his mouth starts to water.

Gunner finally lets go of the book to reach for the float. Taking a sip from the straw, he nods. It tasted a lot better than his breakfast had.

Hearing Bree's question, it takes him a moment to process it. Eventually, he points to the familiar nurse a ways away. "Marge freaks easily," he mumbles.

Sighing deeply, his eyes remain void of emotion. He takes another sip of his float, but then pushes it away a little. Leaning forward, he rests his head on the table, his face to Bree. HIs eyes beg her as the words finally come out. "Take me home... please?"

Bossman

I think with this one he will be ok. Probably just be happy to have us back to our old selfs again.

Giving a smile and looking over at her dad Katie gives a nod.

"I'd like to stay a little longer too. As long as we let Reese know I dont see a problem. I am still on my leave from work anyways. He told me to take all the time I needed."

Looking back to Jade and Dan Kaite smile. She had enjoyed both there company so far and wouldnt mind having a little more fun before going back to work.

"And bowling sounds fun."

Raising an eyebrow a smile spreads across Dan's face as he got no option in the matter and than giving a short chuckle.

"Ok, bowling it is than. Sounds like it might be fun."

Looking over her shoulder and leaning back a little in his chair Dan looks to Mick.

"Hey Boss man, we get to bring some of your wifes delicious hot chocolate with us?"

Looking up from the chart once again Amanda gives a small smile. Since JT had come to work at the hospital Amanda had seen him in and out almost everyday, not stopping though to talk as there word didnt not allow the time, she didnt always find him handsome. And now to have him asking her out to lunch or dinner, it was almost like a fairy tail that she could smile about.

"I do an overnight shift the night before, so dinner that night could be good as I have off that day. That way I can get some sleep in."

Giving another smile Amanda turn and disapears it Ryan's room to check on her knowing she would see JT again before the day was though to get the details and times on when to meet him for dinner.

And so the says move on, some waiting for the excitement that was to come, and some just wanting to see there friend who needed them....but for no matter the reason the day moved on.

Entering the small room that had a chill in the air Bree looked around untill she found who she was looking for. Her eyes give a sparkle as makes her way over to him seeing him holding the book she had let him barrow.

"Hope you havnt filled up on blood yet this morning, I dont want you to be to full to have this float with no ice cream I braught you!"

Holding it out to Gunner Bree scans his face taking note to his glazed eyes and the lifeless nature that seemed to be present. What had happened to her friend and was he ok now?

Slidding into the chair next to him and setting the float on the table Bree reachs out and takes Gunner's hand in her own.

"Oh Gunner, what have they done to you."

Taking her other free hand Bree brush a peace of hair off Gunner for head before running it down his face and than withdrawing it.

"Next time you want to get out, wait till you have someone who can cover your back eh?"

Giving his hand a gentil squeeze Bree wanted him to be his normal joking self so she could join along to. On coming today they Dr had said what had happend, she wasnt going to bring it up and she was just going to be normal but hadnt relized that they had drugged him too.

Though Gunner wasnt himself today Bree was going to try and still be herself so she could help Gunner maybe get into the better mood.

"Ok So, we are we going to freak out today?"

Foggy

Gunner glances over his shoulder one last time as he's led down the long hall. He'd never had many friends. He wasn't all that close to those at TJY - Con was probably the closest - although he'd worked there for years now. He didn't know if he'd had friends in his younger years, and had always wondered if he'd been more of a people person. He doubted it though... after the accident, he'd had no one come to him to try to reestablish relationships.

Here and now, suddenly, there were two people that apparently cared. It baffled him, why they did, but he couldn't deny it. Hope and Bree had no other reason to be trying to help him - they had nothing to gain. So they must really care. Why though? He didn't know. There was a strange connection between him and Bree though... maybe all it was, was their demented sense of humor, but it seemed to be enough, whatever it was.

Giving a little sigh, he turns back to paying attention where he was going. There was too much to think about right now.


JT leans on the wall and folds his arms casually as he looks at Amanda. "You don't have to thank me. This is what I'm here for... this is why I'm a doctor.

He cocks his head. "I got double shifts tonight and tomorrow night but... the evening after that, I have off." He shrugs. "If you want to join me for supper..." He gives her a little smile. He had no idea if she would want to go out with a coworker or not, but it was worth asking. "Or lunch, depending on your hours."


Jade's eyes widen at Dan. "You've never bowled? Ohh, then do we have a treat for you." She swivels in her seat to bump Mick's shoulder behind her on the next table. "Dad? Do they still have the bowling alley in town?"

Mick almost spills his soup as he's nudged. "Um... I think so, why?"

"Duh - to go bowling."

Mick grins and looks over his shoulder at the group. "Sounds like fun. You're not planning on going tonight though, I hope."

"Why not?"

"I need Dan to go on a night watch with me for a night or two. We've had coyotes spooking the horses out back, and it's time to nip it in the bud."

Jade's shoulders drop. "Well..." She turns back to the group. "Jason? You and Katie hanging around here for a couple more days?"

Jason looks to Katie.

I think Reese won't fire us if we stay a little longer, do you?

"I'm game... Just gotta make a call or two."

Jeff gives his daughter a smile."I wouldn't mind if you stuck around longer."

"Good." Jade nodded with satisfaction. "We make a foursome tomorrow night or the next and introduce this guy to bowling."

Mick quirks an eyebrow and turns back to his food, sending Rosetta an uncomfortable look, but he says nothing.


The day vanished in the wind like a droplet of water, dispersed to evaporate, never to be seen again. Days are funny that way - in the beginning, they seem as though they might last forever, and in the next instance, it is gone. The page turns, bringing a new dawn once again...


"We found him just outside the front lounge."

"How did he get out?!"

The twisted innards to a pen is dumped onto the table. "It seems he's an expert at picking locks."

"Any damage?"

"Broken window to the medical room. He had a piece of glass and tried to cut himself during the struggle."

"Have a different lock put on his room and schedule his next therapy session immediately. What meds have you had him on."

"These." A bottle is placed on the table. "They seem to have no effect though."

"Try this instead." The medication is replaced. "Double dose. We can't risk violence until he's calmed down."

"Visitors?"

"No one today if we can help it. He needs time to calm down."

"Yes sir. I'll fill out the incident report."

"Be sure to have Thomas look at your cut there."

"I will. Thank you..."


...Gunner almost chokes as he's forced to swallow the pills, and water spills from his mouth.

"There, there, this will make you feel better."

Gunner glares at Marge and fights the straight jacket he'd been put into a couple hours before, after attempting to get out then fighting the doctors. Somewhere along the way, he'd had the bright idea to try ending the struggle right then and there but he'd come away with just a small cut from the piece of glass he'd grabbed, instead of finding life's end as planned.

He gives the nurse a low growl, in no mood for her cheer. But he wouldn't get much more than that today. He was brought out for lunch after he'd calmed down, but after that, things started getting foggy. He was busy... he thought... going from one doctor to the next, and forced into activities with some of the other patients. He vaguely remembers thinking that if anyone came to see him, that he would be too busy, knowing that would be the reason given to anyone.

By the next morning, everything was fuzzy. It felt like he was going in slow motion, and everything around him was spinning, but not making him dizzy. Sometimes he could focus if he tried hard enough, but he really didn't feel much of anything. He didn't feel good... he didn't feel bad.. not happy or sad. At least he was free to walk around now, though he didn't seem to have a destination in mind anymore. Why was he here again?

Lunchtime finds him without an appetite, and he is allowed to sit in the corner of the room. With his arms wrapped around himself, his bare feet show, and in one hand, he clutches an astronomy book that Marge kept complimenting. But something way deep down beneath the fog seemed to tell him something wasn't right. It was almost as if it were shouting for help, but it was buried too deeply in the fog to be heard.

With glazed eyes, his look is a far away one, seeming to look beyond all that was going on around him.

Thanks

Standing herself Bree eyes smile though her lips to not. It sucked that her and Gunner couldn't have more time together even if what they were doing was mindless fun. At least she had giving Gunner a little bit of that joy in this place.

"Your Welcome Gunner, try not to bit Marge on your way to your room ok?"

Giving a chuckle Bree turns as she hears the Dr call and than looking back to Gunner. A window, he would have his window now and that might help. She was happy Hope could work that out.

"I'll see you soon Gunner."

Turning to leave Bree exits the hospital glancing down at her watch fast. She had an hour before she had to be to work how could she kill that time today.

Smiling and giving a nod to Gunner Hope was happy to help. Anything to make him comfortable as she could here she would do. She new it wasn't a pleasant place, he hated and he felt embarssed to be here but if she could do something to help him be comfortable she would.

Giving a shake of her head and a smile Katie take her seat between Jeff and Jason once again. Her heart was content having both of them here knowing they would be ok.

"No, your not interrupting anything. Your always welcome to sit with us."

Giving a laugh at Jeff's statement Katie slips her hand into Jason under the table her eyes twinkle as she continues the joke with a little bit of scarasum.

"Oh yes, because we always cheat. Thats just the time of people we are."

Giving a laugh Dan takes a sip of his water. It was good to see Jeff up and about knowing he would be ok. Dan hadnt gotten to know him on a close personal level, but he had chatted with him a few times and new he was a good guy who deserved better than dieing by the hang of The Agency he was told so much about.

Turning his attachen back to Jade he gives a grin as she shrugs his shoulders a little.

"Bowling? I honestly can say I dont know if I am good or not, I never tried to bowl before. But how hard can it be?!"

Scanning the charts Amanda looks over the information. It had been a few hours since they had given Ryan the blood and nothing had gone wrong yet. She only prayed it stayed that way.

"So far so good. Her vitals are good, and the blood is mixing well. It will only take a few more hours before we know for sure her body has accepted the blood. Than the hard part will be done, and we will just have to get her health, and see about the movement in her arm."

Letting out a small sigh Amanda looks across the chart for a moment at JT before looking back at the chart. It had been a long day and it would of been even longer if it hadn't been for JT.

"Thanks for the help today. I really do appreciate it.."

Thank you

Gunner begins to wonder about the past of the woman beside him, but he decides that now is not the the time to ask.

Instead, his knee quits bouncing again under her pat,and he cocks his head. His mouth opens to say something, but she;s already moved on to the puzzle again.

A small grin escapes. "Now all we need is to find 'dungeon.'" Leaning with his head close to hers, he looks at the jumbled letters, but then stops for a moment. He turns so his face is right by hers. "True friend, huh? That happened awfully fast, don't you th-"

"Alright, Brent, visiting time is over for today."

The overly sweet voice makes Gunner cringe, also not appreciating being interrupted. "Oh come on. All I'll do in my room is stare at a wall. I thought you guys were into healing th insane, not creating them."

The nurse frowns. "I'm sorry, Brent, you know the rules."

Gunner swings his gaze back to Bree and mouths Brent in annoyance. Finally, he stands, giving up on asking Bree how she could consider him a friend after they really hardly knew each other, let alone, he threatened her uncle. It wasn't worth fighting for more time.

Straightening, the unseen pen slips all the way into his pocket. "Where to, Georgia Sue?"

The nurse smirks. "My name is Marge and you know it. You also know we're headed to your room."

Gunner sighs and picks up the books. "Allowed?" he asks, a bit sarcastically.

"Yes, those are fine. Now come along."

Gunner gives a final glance to Bree. "Thanks for... well... yeah... thanks."

"Brent?"

"Yeah, yeah." A last shrug is all he can offer before heading to the hall.

"Oh, Marge?" The doctor who had been speaking with Hope stops them. "Please make sure all of Brent's things get moved to room thirty.It has a window he might enjoy."

"Yes, Doctor."

Gunner keeps walking, but turns his head to see Hope. Thank you, he silently relays.


Jeff smiles and leaves Rick to slowly join the other table. He gives Katie a gentle hug before sinking down in the chair, obviously exhausted just from the short walk from the bunkhouse. "Hope I'm not interrupting."

Jason shakes his head. "Not at all. As a matter of fact, you just saved us from a terrible argument."

Jeff's eyes widen. "I did?"

"Not hardly," Jade interrupts. "How would you go up against these two? It's impossible."

"Have you considered bowling?"

Jade blinks. "What?"

"You know... roll a ball to knock down pins?" Jeff grins. "They can't cheat at that, team or not." He tosses a wink to Katie, knowing that she and Jason wouldn't cheat anyway.

Jade's eyes sparkle. "Hey, you're right!"She turns and gives Dans arm a whack. "Bowling! You any good at it?"


Eli lies in the bed, his focus on the ceiling tiles, rather than the waves of nausea. The thought or sight of blood didn't bother him, but he could feel his body getting tired as it gave up a portion of its own life source to save another.

He turns his head to see his sister's form. "Hang in there, Speedy," he whispers.


JT rubs a hand over his tired face as he looks in on the room. He glances to Amanda, who held a chart. "How's it going?"

V...A...M...P...I...R...E

"I do understand where your coming from Gunner. I..I've been to many councilors myself, its hard to share yourself with someone. She's good thought I can tell that."

Giving a small half smile to Gunner, and another pat to his leg Bree just wanted him to be calm. He could be himself around her and she didn't care. She could hear a million storys about what he tryed to do and she wouldnt flinch or think differently of him. She'd been there, she'd done that..and she had the scares to prove it.

"I know you hate that I see you like this, but whats a true friend but one who walks through the fire with you. This here...means nothing on who you are. To me, I like seeing the guy in front of me who is nothing but himself. I am happy they stoped you from ending it because it wouldnt be the same being backwards alone. No matter how normal or crazy you are because I am crazy too."

Looking at Gunner her cheeks turn just a little red why she wasnt sure but she didnt try to fight it before looking down at the book again. Gunner wanted to stop talking about himself for now than she wouldnt push it.

"Ohhh...look I found V...A...M...P...I...R...E, Vampire!"

Leaning into Jason a little a smile so wide stays spread across Katie's face. A few days ago Katie had almost lost to people she found so close to her, and through her prayers God had answered them and followed through.

Yes it has been far to long, but I am happy we are here and now having this moment to do it together. I love you J.

Returning the kiss to Jason and than looking across the table at Jade and Dan Katie lets out a giggle again.

"You know just because we can talk to each other without using our voiced dosnt mean we always can. Only when we dont want other to hear what we are saying."

Sticking her toung out at Jade and than laughing again.

Shaking her head Dan sat next to Jade enjoying just watching everyone interact. It was nice to interact with some people who were his own age and even be included in the conversation. He hadn't felt that in a very long time.

"A game plan huh? I think we might be able to come up with one of those."

Dan gives a playful elbow to Jade and than leans in close as if concocting a plan of action with her.

Giving another chuckle the movment at the door catches Katie's attachen as she falls silent for a moment thought the smile on her face growing. Kaite new her dad shouldnt be out of bed yet but she couldn't blame him for wanting to. After being cooped up for so long even the sain would go crazy. She must of inherited that from him.

Looking to the empty chair on the other side of her Katie stands and pulls it away from the table looking at Jeff and than back to the chair.

"I saved you this seat. We dont mind if you sit with us Dad."

I don't know

Gunner traces a mark on the table with his thumbnail, his eyes drifting down as Hope talks. He didn't like being here... he didn't like being put in the same category as some of the other patients here. But... maybe he really did have a problem.

Hearing Hope's offer to talk to someone about another room, his head snaps up. "Um... thanks."

His eyes follow her until Bree breaks into his thoughts. "Nah..." He shakes his head. "Don't be sorry. You said what I was thinking anyway. Hope's a good person... I've seen her help someone who shoulda been put in the loony bin for good and he pulled through. I guess I've had my fill of counselors in my life so I wind up giving her a hard time."

Gunner's knee starts bouncing again without him realizing it. "I don't know why I'm here, Bree. I don't get why I can't do with my own life like I want or why anybody else even cares." He shrugs. "I know I got a few friends or whatever but... I don't know. I wish I could have just ended it all like I wanted to."

Turning to look at her, he purses his lips. "You realize I hate you being in on all this and seeing me in this state. I don't think I've ever felt more humiliated. Not your fault, I just..."

A wry chuckle escapes and he shakes his head again. "I don't even know what I'm saying. Let's finish this puzzle before Hope gets back."


Jade is laughing so hard that she has to cover her mouth so she doesn't spit her food out at the lunch table. Jason is laughing too at something he'd said, and he looks to Katie, his eye twinkling.

Been too long since we had a good laugh together.

Slinging an arm around her shoulders, he gives her a kiss on the cheek.

Jade gasps for breath, and elbows Dan. "Don't look now, they're kissing again."

"It was just a peck on the cheek!" Jason defends.

"Uh-huh. I want to know what you said in between."

"How do you know I said anything?"

Jade giggles. "I guessed?" She looks at Dan again."You realize there's no way to beat those two at anything. I think we need a plan."


As lunch proceeds, the front door slowly opens. Jeff looks cautiously inside, his face pale, and one arm was held around himself, but he'd dragged himself from the bunkhouse.

Rick is eating his soup next to Luke and Angel when he looks up to see Jeff. "My word!" On his feet in an instant, he goes immediately to Jeff's side. "You shouldn't be here! You shouldn't even be out of bed."

"I just wanted some fresh air." Jeff's eyes are tired and sunken in, but there is a small spark. Glancing around the room, he knows that everyone knows now about him and Katie. But he really wasn't all that hesitant... he was more glad the truth was finally out.

His gaze finds Katie, and a small smile forms.

"Well sit down," Rick prompts, "before you fall down. Here." He pulls out a chair.

Jeff shakes his head. "I want to go sit with Katie."

"But-"

Jeff gives him a short glare. "I walked all the way out here, I can walk across the room."

Nice

Letting compassion show in her eyes Hope gives a nod to Gunner. She new he was lost and he hated everything he was right now. She couldn't even start to imagen how she would feel herself.

"I'm sorry Gunner that you fell all these things and you feel as you have no control. Sometimes its hard admitting we have problems and we need help, but before you can even strat to let your heart heal you need to admit and face what happened than deal and know it wasn't your fault. "

Letting out a small sigh and giving a small smile looking to Bree Hope gives a nod. Gunner had found and what a friend she was. She could only hope that she would be good for him and maybe help him more without even realizing it.

"I'll see what I can do about the room with a window. Maybe even a pare of binoculars too so you can look at the starts you love so much. Let me go see what I can do I'll be back."

Getting up and leaving the table Hope makes her way over to where the dr. was to chat with him a little.

Watching Hope as she walks away Bree looks to Gunner an apology on her face. This hadn't been her place to put in but she had anywyas.

"I am sorry I cut in on you like that. Hope seems like a nice lady and all its just...how she was acting was bothering me."

Giving a small smile Bree looks to Gunner her eyes gave just a small twinkle.

Raw

Gunner really doesn't respond much to Hope. He didn't know what she wanted from him. He could say things were great here, but that wasn't true. He could say he got to stay up whenever he wanted, but that wasn't true either.

Opening his mouth, he stops, feeling Bree's pat to his nervous leg. Lifting his eyebrows, he listens, then watches for Hope's reaction, curious. He can see she's a bit confused, and that she shifts gears just a little.

Cocking his head, he shows a bit of amusement by the quirk in his mouth, and he taps Bree's foot with his own, under the table to thank her.

"Thank you for caring, Dr. Garrison." He was a little peeved, but he knew that having people who cared was good. There may have been a break in topics, but he remembered everything she'd said. "Food tastes like crap on cardboard. And I get locked in my room by eight."

His eyes hold a dimness... a lack of life. "Look..." He sighs deeply. "You know you don't have to beat around the bush with me, and you know I don't play games with you. I hate it here and I hate myself. I'm depressed and all I feel is emptiness. If they let me go now, I'd probably go find some creative way to get it all over with again because I really don't know how to live with myself right now."

He shrugs lamely. "I'm embarrassed that I'm here, and all I feel when I lay down at night is guilt. All I've done all my life was a total waste, and I still don't even know who I was before the accident. Maybe I don't even want to know any more."

Gunner picks at the corner of one of the puzzle books. It was getting harder to not be bothered by the raw truth he always spoke. His eyes lower for a moment before he glances to Bree, not knowing what she thought of all this, then back to Hope. "If you could get me a room with a window, it might make this more bearable, but... I really don't see how I can "get better" when all I do is play petty mind games with the local shrink."

Own Mask

Looking up at Dr. Garrison Bree seemed to go queit though her face really shown no expression of any emotion. Continuing to just watch her Bree is just silent listing to Gunner and Hope taking note to Gunners voice change and he was just a little bit differnt in the presence of Hope.

Pulling up a chair and sitting down Hope gives a friendly nod to Bree before looking back to Gunner and just studying him for a long moment.

"I am happy your friend came to see you Gunner. Its nice to know you have someone to brighten your day."

Continuing to listen Bree cant help but pick up the tone that was in Hope's voice and something about it seemed to nag her. She seemed like a nice person but maybe spent her time talking with children a little to often. Or it could be simply she was being carfel about what she said around Gunner not to upset him, but whatever it was it bothered Bree to no end.

Scanning the room for a moment Hope felt bad for Gunner. She new he didnt belong in this place, He wasn't crazy he was only lost. It hurt that she couldnt help and all she did had no affect.

Clearing her throat Hope talks once again.

"Well a cliff would deffintly be harder to come so I guess that is a good thing you want one of those. How about everything else though? The food? Are they are they at least letting you stay up late? I cant talk to them if they arnt. The sooner you get better Gunner, the sooner you can leave."

Hope didnt mean to sound like she was babying Gunner she just didnt know what else to talk about really. She wanted to know how Gunner was doing and just be there for him but this case was so different for her. Being out of the comfort of her own office was hard too.

Finally not being able to take it anymore Bree gives Gunner's leg that had been bouncing for the last five minutes probably with out even realizing it a gentile pat. Straghting in her chair just a little bit Bree looks across the table at Hope for a long moment before finally clearing her throat and squinting at Hope.

"Dr. Garrison, we are not all ten years old here, so you dont need to talk to use like we are. We only bit sometimes...."

A look of surprise cross Hope's face as she straightens a little and looks to Bree. She didnt even really know who this woman was but she had no problem calling her on her falts that she didnt even mean. Going to speak again Hope is cut off by Bree.

"How long does it take you in the morning anyways Miss. Garrison to look in the mirror and put on your own mask to fool people into thinking your sain? Because being crazy is normal, and being normal is crazy. We all have a bit of craziness inside of us so why try to hide it and be someone we are not."

Finashing her comment Bree leans back in her chair still close to Gunner she continues to look across the table at Hope just waiting for her reply not really caring who had over hurd her when what she had said was true.

Giving a few blinks at she looks across the table at Bree Hope is quiet for a long moment not sure what she should say next. What Bree said seemed to make sence and hit a little home for her too.

Moving her focus away from Bree and back to Gunner Hope catchs sight of the pen Gunner had but says nothing. Giving a smile the tone in her voice changed once again as she finally replys to Gunner.

"No, Reese didn't send me. I came here on my own free will to see you Gunner. I told you I cared and I meant it."

Insane Irene

Gunner snickers and shakes his head st Bree's find. "Okay, you can circle it, but no points since it's not on the list." He gives her a quick teasing look before glancing back to the puzzle.

Seeing Hope coming, Gunner straightens just a little. He liked her, but he wasn't so sure about trusting her at this point. He greets her though. "Well, if it isn't Dr. Garrison. All you're interrupting is the passage of time. Sit down, take a load off, if you're not afraid of vampires."

He motions to another chair. "Bree this is my shrink, er, sorry, counselor, Dr. Hope Garrison. She and my buddy Conrad are the two that can be thanked for me being here." Though his tone was calm, there was an underlying feeling of bitterness.

Gunner cocks his head at Hope, predicting the usual. "I'm fine, thanks, better since I got some decent company for a while instead of insane Irene over there by the window. I'm sure Dr. Kellar will tell you I have multiple problems after the nice chats he and I have had, but to be honest, I think he's a little nutty himself."

Sarcasm has seeped into his voice. "And if you wonder how I really feel, I think today a mountain cliff would do just as well as a bridge." He didn't know if Bree knew the reason he'd gone off the deep end or not, but it really didn't bother him that she was hearing all this. He rests an elbow on the table to cup his chin in his hand, staring at Hope. "Other than that, things are just peachy."
While talking as a distraction, his other hand has slid down, hiding the pen from view until he can slip it into his pocket.

"What about you? Reese send you over?"

N...O...I...C...E...C...R...E...A...M

As Gunner takes her hand Bree dosnt flinch or seen to mind much as most might of been startled. Just watching and giving a chuckle here and there from the feeling of the pencil around her hand Bree just shakes her head looking down at the paper.

Once Gunner is done Bree gives the look of wondering what he was doing but says nothing. It was apparent he didn't want her to know right now.

Focusing back to the book with the word searchs Bree moves her hand again to reveal another pen. Holding it close to the page Bree starts to scan the letters.

"I think she is starting to wonder about me too, pst thats alright though she doesn't know what she is missing."

Giving a smile about the nurse Bree gives Gunner a quick sidelong glance before looking back at the paper. For a moment her face lights up as she starts to circle.

"N...O....I...C...E...C...R...E...A...M! No Ice cream."

Though it wasnt in the list of words Bree circled it anyways.

"That word is for us backwards upside down people."

Watching from across the room Hope says nothing but just stands there watching Gunner and the woman interact. She didnt know who she was, but for some reason she seemed to have a way with Gunner. He looks calm, and there was a glint of happyness there that wasnt before.

Finally after standing for a long moment Hope makes her way over a sweet smile was on her face as she got to the table.

"Hi Gunner, its good to see you again."

Hope gives a small nod to Bree as a hello to her too before looking back to Gunner.

"I hope I am not interrupting anything. I can always come back."

Evil nurse Marge

Gunner quietly contemplates Bree's comment about his friends. Was she right? At this point, he just didn't know.

Looking back at the book, Bree's hand bumping his breaks his train of thought. He almost flinches but for some reason he couldn't figure out, he didn't bother moving.

Then seeing a pencil revealed, a new smile emerges. Not only did it mean Bree had been thoughtful, but she trusted him, too. As strange as it felt to him, he didn't reach out right away. There was an unfamiliar lump in his throat - one that he didn't like, and he didn't know where it had come from. Maybe... maybe he appreciated Bree coming here more than even he realized.

Shaking his head a little, he finally takes the pencil. "Thanks, Bree."

Thinking a moment, he looks down to see her hand still resting against his own. It shouldn't have felt strange, but for someone not close to anyone, it did.

Without warning, he takes up the notepad. Then, taking Bree's hand, he lifts it up then places it on th paper, palm-down. Spreading her fingers gently, Gunner then traces all the way around her hand, careful to be fairly exact.

He offers no explanation though, and when he's done, he simply closes the notepad as if he's storing a secret.

Switching gears, he still works on his float, but goes for a word-search book next, opening it up to the first puzzle. "First one to find the most words before evil nurse Marge comes back to take me to my dungeon, wins." He puts the book between them and leans a little closer,

Friend

Giving a chuckle and a soft smile it was differnt from most she had shown before. This time it was the feeling of doing something nice for Gunner and though he was a bit confused the look behind the confusion offered a warm feeling inside of her.

"Mmmm...keeping everyone on there toes is good."

Giving another smile to Gunner the humor returns to Bree's eyes even though words were very turn.

"Your welcome, but dont sell you friends short just yet, they are kind of doing the backwards crazy thing too. Your here because they care not because they don't have faith in you."

Giving Gunners hand a gentile pat Bree knows his change in subject was because he hating being here, and maybe even a little embarrassed. She couldnt blame him she would feel the same way though she would never call Gunner on it and make it worse. Moving her chair a little closer to him so she could look Bree runs his fingers over the picture bumping her hand into his for a moment and leaving it there still looking at the picture not even really relize she had done it.

"Ohhh..the constellation that never was....I am going to have to look for it next time I take my nightly walk."

Turning her head a little bit more to see Gunner's face Bree's smile was gone now though the twinkle was in her eye. Holding up her hand Bree moves her fingers in the air as if doing a magic trick. With a flick of her wrist and than opening her hand to reveal a pencil.

"I wasn't born yesterday, a pretty pen, for my handsome vampire friend."

Giving a smile and a thoughtful nod to JT Amanda listened very intently. It was nice hearing about some one else and listing to them talk about there family.

"Thats nice that you have someone your close to. We all need that closeness in our lifes its just how God intended it. Him, than loved ones no matter who they were."

Taking the last sip of her coffee Amanda gives a small sigh and throws her cup into the trash before looking down at her watch. Time had sure flown by and it had already been an hour.

"Well...I hate to break this up but the tests should be done by now. I dont want to make Ryan wait any longer than she already has. Its going to be a little bit once we get the blood into her still. Though this has been a really nice time and I would like to do it again. That is if you want."

Quiet life

Gunner gives a little jump, startled by someone right beside him. Discovering that it's Bree, he lifts his eyebrows in surprise. "I..." Her comment about him being a vampire quirks the edge of his mouth into a crooked grin.

Seeing what she'd brought him, he's just silent for several moments, his eyes looking at the rootbeer float, and then the books he itched to open. The question of "why?" was written all over his face, but he didn't ask aloud.

"Well... vampires do sometimes have other cravings..." He pulls the treat a little closer, still confused and hesitating. "So I suppose... this once..." Taking a sip, he tries it, letting the sensation spark his tastebuds. "No point in sticking to a boring pattern like sucking blood anyway. Gotta liven it up to keep the others on their toes."

Quiet for another moment, he finally looks to Bree. "Thank you. It, um... this is nice. I didn't think I'd have your company again after putting a knife to you uncle's throat. I guess this means either you don't think I'm a killer or you don't care about your uncle. But... I know that isn't true so..." He shrugs. "Glad someone still has some faith in me."

Another pause is him taking more of his float. Wanting to avoid talking about himself or how he was, he reaches for one of the astronomy books. Turning the pages, his eyes show his fascination. Flipping to a page of constellations, he points on out. "If you look to the eastern sky this time of year, you can see this one right above the horizon."

As he talks, the nurse walks by and gives him a wary glance. He meets her gaze, flashing his teeth and biting the air. Her response is to walk away - very quickly.

Gunner swallows a laugh and looks back to the book. Browsing for a few minutes, he glances to the puzzle books. "You didn't happen to smuggle in a pen, did you?"


Eli manages a small smile. He wasn't sure if going to see John was a good idea at this point or not, but if that's what Ryan wanted, then he would help her.

Seeing her drifting off, Eli knows she is tired. "You don't have to thank me."

He pats her arm. "Rest now... just rest. I'll still be here when you wake up."


JT listens with interest to Amanda. nodding a little. Getting back to him, he gives a little shrug. "Oh, around here, it's just me. I'm glad I got Bree around though. I guess I kind of treat her like the daughter I never had. Since I'm the only family she's got in the area too, it works out. I don't know if she knows how much I enjoy her company."

He takes another sip of coffee, grinning. "I'd hardly call myself mysterious. I guess work here just keeps me busy."

Knowing it was only fair if he shared about his family too, he continues. "My dad and I never got along too well. He's up in Utah now. My mom died a few years ago from heart disease. I got an uncle in Montana I'm pretty close too though. He always wanted to get me into law enforcement like him, but I took this route instead. Maybe I look out for Bree 'cause I have a really close uncle, too, and I want her to have the same."

He gives a little shrug. "I live a quiet life, so I'm afraid I don't have any exciting details."

Small talk

Smiling and looking back at JT Amanda takes a sip of her coffee before just holding it again. It wsas nice to have someone to talk to. Well sure she talked with people every day but this...it was different and she kind of liked it.

"Dad's been gone for quite a few years now, and my mom lives in that nursing home for the elderly people who are still independent just need a little extra watchful eye over them on North St. I try to see her when I can. She's the only one I have left now."

Amanda new a little about JT but not a whole lot even if she didnt work with him almost every day. She tryed to keep to herself most of the time, and some days got so wrapped up in her work she didn't even realize when someone else was around.

"Well I know a little about you, you have Bree around but I dont know much else about this mysterious dr that works with me..."

Amanda's mouth turns up into a small smile.

"..Do you have anyone else in the area too?"

Wanting to talk more Ryan was over come with a suddon feeling of being tired. She didnt want to sleep, she was scaired to sleep what if she didnt want up again? So many things would be left undone that now she thought about. But not being able to help it she lays her head back and closes her eyes being quiet for a long moment, one might have thought she really did fall asleep till finally her voice was soft, as she tryed to pry her eyes open again.

"When I get out of here, I'd like to go see John. He always told me I'd make a good race care driver. I have to tell him he was right."

Letting out a sigh and close her eyes Ryan couldnt help it anymore as the feeling of being tired was to much to over come.

"Thank...you for coming Eli."

Making her way over to the table seeing Gunner had been with the nurse at first, and than him spitting out the pills Bree shakes her head, but would say nothing on it.

Slipping into the chair next to him while he back was still turn Bree clears her throat a little.

"So, does this mean you dont want the root beer float without the ice cream? Since your a vampire and all?"

No smile played on Bree's face but danced in her eyes. It had taken a little magic for them to have let her in to see Gunner but she was a nurse after all, and after telling them if they didn't let her in she would just admit herself to get in they deiced it wasn't worth the paper work and trouble.

"I thought maybe you could use some company, and maybe something to pass the time."

Reaching into her bag Bree pulls out a few books, some on stars and astroligy, while others had crossword puzzles and word search, also a pad of paper was fashioned.

"These are for you and I dont need them back anytime soon. I'd ask how you were, but I think I already know. Freaked anyone else here besides that nurse out?"

Depressed Vampire

"Yeah, you too." JT watches his niece walk away, still wondering if she was in fact going to see Gunner. He really didn't mind though. She was smart, and he really didn't think Gunner was a bad guy either, just someone with problems.

He grins and shakes his head. "She's a good kid." He stops himself and chuckles. "Kid. One of these days I'll realize she's a grown woman."

Looking at Amanda again, his curiosity rises. Her left hand was void of a ring, but that's pretty much all he knew about her. "What about you? You have family around here?"


Eli listens quietly to Ryan. He hadn't planned on an emotional conversation, but maybe it was good. He reaches out to brush her tear away. "Hey... Pop wouldn't want us crying over him now. Things haven't been all that bad, have they, hmm?"

Her question of John brings a sigh. "Last time I talked with him was over a year ago. I went to see him but... it seemed all we could do was argue so I walked away. I've hated myself for not seeing both of you more often though... even though you're so far away and even though John was stupid..." He purses his lips in thought. "Being on the road for a couple days gave me time to think, ya know? Guess I want to work harder to keep this family together. I don't know how but... I'm tired of the distance."

He squeezes her hand. "But right now we gotta focus on getting you out of here, huh?" He grins at her. "I may have been away from you, but that doesn't mean I doubt you can beat this. I know you still have the fight to do it."


Gunner sits at the little table, looking around at the others who were eating their lunches. He'd only picked at his. There were some normal looking patients here, but some seemed to have a lot more problems than he did. One night and he hated it here.

"Here we go, Brent." The nurse smiles sweetly and hands him a little cup with several pills. "Time to get you feeling better."

Gunner didn't appreciate the cheer, and he throws her a look. "How about lending me that set of keys? That would make me feel better."

The nurse laughs. "You still have a sense of humor. That's good."

Gunner takes the cup with a smirk. "I wasn't joking. See, I'm really a vampire, and I need to get out at night to feed. If you let me out after dark, I promise to be back before dawn."

The nurse's eyes widen slightly and she blinks, her mouth hanging open.

Gunner shrugs. "Maybe next time." He dumps the pills into his mouth, the follows with water to satisfy the nurse.

She walks away and approaches one of the doctors, asking if they needed to "give Brent more than just depression meds."

Gunner withholds his grin, and glances to the waste basket just three feet away. No one was watching, so he takes aim. With surprising accuracy, he spits, sending the pills into the garbage.

Blame

Smiling back at her Uncle Bree gives a small shake of her head her smile never leaving her eyes as she seemed to almost bubble over. Thought her lips there was no smile forming it could still be told from her eyes another story.

Thinking for a long moment Bree is quiet before answering JT. What would he say if he new she was going to see Gunner. She wasnt even sure herself if it was a good idea herself.

"No, not a stalker today. Today the float is for a friend who might need a pick me up or just someone to be there for him, no strings attached."

Finally letting her lips slip a smile forms giving a nod.

"Well I better get going. You two have fun."

Leaving the lunch room and heading down the hall it dosnt take Bree long to get to the door that lead to where her car was. Gently tucking the books in front of the float so it wouldnt move Bree starts her car and heads to the out skirts of town.

Seeing her brothers face, his smile, his eyes Eli had inherited there fathers good looks, even though there were still a few things that she could remember from there mother that Eli had too it mixed will with his own flair.

Good memories flowed back to her as she closed her eyes for a moment. The smell of grease, the chatter in the garage as she sat to the side on a blanket with her toy truck with her own set of tools. Giving a chuckle she opens her eyes again looking up at her brother. They were tired, and sunken in, but there was a very small twinkle in them.

"Most...of my friends are good..."

Ryan lets her eyes rome the room for a moment not moving her head before looking to Eli again.

"If.....if they wer...re all good I wouldn't be here."

Hearing about there dad it had been a long time since those words had left there lips. No one talked about it not even after the accident happened. There fathers name had faded from there lips as hearts ached, people felt at blame, and others didn't know what to do.

"We all missed him and didn't....know how to deal. When Pop died so did a part of us and we each found something else to wrap outselfs in."

Ryan goes into a coughing fit for a long moment before finally laying back again letting the silence rain as she caught her breath.

"John always blamed...himself you know. It was his....jo...job to put that car up. I...I always though he got himself thrown in jail on pourpis as his...own punishment."

Looking up at Eli a tear rolls down Ryan's face. Now having time to think about it again she missed her father, and her brothers, life just had never been the same.

"Ha...ve you hears from John at all? How is he?"

Neighborly stalker

Reese just nods and shrugs. "Yeah... I don't think he ever intended to hurt anybody... he just pushed the rules too far."

He sighs and turns to leave. "Well, let me know how he is if you see him. Thanks Hope."


A smile forms on Eli's face and he tucks a strand of Ryan's hair behind her ear. "Hey Speedy. Yeah, I'm real... you're not dreaming." It was sad that it had been so long that his presence was so unusual. But phone calls were few, letters even fewer, and it had been four years now since they'd seen each other.

Eli swallows hard. He didn't like seeing his sister like this. He remembered her so strong and full of life, not like this.

"You got some good friends," he explains. "I would have been here sooner if I would have known what was really going on." His hand finds hers. "But you're gonna be okay. I'm here now... I won't let anything happen to you." He knew it was out of his hands, but he wanted his sister to know that despite the quiet years, he was still here for her. In a moment's notice, he despised his own distance. As the older brother, he should have done things differently.

"I'm sorry," he whispers. "Pops told John and me to take care if you... but I guess we haven't done a very good job."

He gives her hand a little squeeze. "'Watch her,' he said... then I moved and John got himself in jail." Seeing how close Ryan was to death made him realize that he wished he would have done things differently. "After Pops was gone I guess things got a little crazy, huh?"

He sighs. "But I'm here now," he repeats. "Hang in there, Speedy. You can beat this."


JT smiles as he sees Bree approach. "Hey you." Seeing a strange glint in her eye, he quirks his eyebrow at her but says nothing. "You're no bother. We're just taking a breather. Gonna be a long day."

He cocks his head. "Rootbeer float eh? That friend wouldn't happen to be our neighborly stalker would it?"

Hi

Trying to pull herself from the darkness that held on to her so tight Ryan. The familure voice, that had almost been long forgotten cutting the darkness like a knife through butter.

"Da.....dad?"

Prying her eyes open the tiny stilts let the light shine through causing her to squint just a little letting them get use to the light before she opens them the rest of the way with what little strength she had. Seeing Eli a small smile formed on her face. It had been so long since she had seen her brother but he looked just the same as the last time maybe just a little taller.

Her voice sounded weak forming the words she wanted to say though they went strong like her voice normally was.

"Eli..."

Ryan's smile grows a little more as she closes her eyes again and swallows having a bit of a hard time but managing than open her eyes again her brother still standing in front of her.

"Your still....here, your not a dream. How...did you know?"

Thinking for a long moment Hope lets out a sigh as she shakes her head a little. Letting out a small breath she had held in she couldn't help but be a little re-leaved that Gunner hadnt hurt him.

"Well, at least it was just to say he was sorry. I mean its not excuse but...I guess its better than trying to help him again."

Leaning back and taking a sip of her coffee Amanda just lets the warm liqued go down her throat. Letting out a small sigh she tryed to let the stress of the day out before she continued.

"Well right now I dont have much time to myself. Its been that time of year around here. But when I do find a free moment I like curling up on the couch with a good book or movie."

Giving a smile Amanda was about to continue with a shadow was cast onto the table. Looking up and seeing Bree giving a wave as she stood there in she scrubs she smiled.

Seeing her uncle with dr Fuller Bree made her way over to the table a silly smile on her face as her eyes danced with a teasing humor.

"Hi Uncle JT, Hi Dr Fuller. I came here to pick up some books from the hospital library and look into a root beer float for a friend when I caught sight of you guys. I just thought it would be nice to come over and say Hi. Didnt want to bother you for to long."

Games

Eli complies with everything, never questioning Amanda's decisions. He knew Ryan's life was in their hands, and he had to trust them.

JT gives Amanda a little grin and nods. "Yeah, coffee sounds good. I'll join ya."

Walking with her to the lunch room, JT poors their coffee and then eases down in a chair across from her. "I can tell this is gonna be a long day already," he muses, shaking his head. "So tell me... We work in the same hospital but hardly cross paths. What keeps you busy outside of this place?"


Eli cooperates with the nurses, and once the blood they need for testing is drawn, he's free to go see Ryan. Slowly entering the room, he pauses, then goes to the bed. His leather chaps creak just a little as he sits on the edge of the bed. Staring down at his sister, his heart aches for more than one reason. Reaching out, he brushes her cheek with a rough hand. "Oh, Ryan..."


Reese nods quickly. "Yeah, JT was ok. Apparently, Gunner went to apologize to him. At first, JT was just gonna let it go, so that's why he waited, but then he decided he better report it. He didn't feel threatened but he knew Gunner wasn't supposed to be there. I went ahead and told him what had been happening on this end."


The doctor cocks his head. "Family."

"Failure."

"Love."

"Foreign."

"Hate."

"Madness."

"Peaceful."

"Hope."

The doctor stops and studies Gunner quietly. "Do you have hope?"

"No. I was referring to Hope Garrison." The corner of Gunner's mouth twitches. He was tired of the stupid word games.

"Killer."

Gunner sighs, relaying once again, the first word to come to mind. "Me."

"Truth."

"Gray."

"Friends."

"Elite."

"Betrayal."

"Friends."

"Brent."

"Alone."

The doctor pauses again. "You know you're not alone."

"Cut the crap, doc." Gunner shakes his head. "You think I don't know where you're going with this? All you're doing is trying to figure out who I am and how I think. It would be easier if you just asked."

"Hmm. Storm."

Gunner rolls his eyes to the ceiling, muttering under his breath. "You want games, I'll give you games."

Coffee

Giving a nod to JT Amanda agrees. She was a little shocked herself.

"I am hoping his will work too and his blood is the right blood. I cant help but worry a little even though I know its it the lords hands."

Taking the papers from Eli Amanda looks over them quickly making sure everything was signed and nothing was left out that could cause problems.

"OK Eli, I am going to set you up in this room here..."

Amanda walks with Eli giving him a bref overview on what he was being testsed for and everything that would be going on. A nurse would be handling it but as soon as it was done, herself or JT would be right there to examen, and determ his blood than head right for his sister.

Also Amanda told him that wight might be a little bit so he was more than welcome to go see his sister though be warned she didnt look how he might remember.

Once getting Eli settled Amanda lets out a sigh as she exits the room and finds JT again. Leaning on the counter next to him she runs a hand through her hair before giving a small smile to him.

"I could use some coffee right about now, want to head down to the lunch room with me to get some?"

Looking up from the cubicle to Reese's voice Hope was a bit suprised that Gunner had been to see JT again but it was just not being told about it.

"Is he ok? What did he say happend and why wernt we told sooner?"

Taking some notes down on paper Hope thinks for a long moment consering what should be done. She hadnt called the hospital yet today to find out how Gunner was but maybe she would show up.

"I was thinking about going to see him a little bit later, but not till after lunch."

ready

Eli nods at Amanda seeming unhindered by anything she says, even him needing to stay there. "I'll do anything I have to," he assures. 'I don't care what it is."

Accepting the paperwork, he leans on the counter of the nurses station ans starts to fill it out the best he can, sometimes having to stop and think.

JT stays nearby to observe and help if need be. Off to the side, he leans closer to Amanda once, speaking quietly. "I hope this works. Eli is a whole lot more willing than I thought he would be."

It takes a little while but Eli finally finishes with the papers and hands them back to Amanda. "Alright, Doc, here you go. I think I caught everything except where I have to sign over my firstborn." He gives her a wry grin. "Lets get the tests over with - I don't like the needle part."


Jade bites her lip, still grinning, "Yeah... I'll make sure they leave you something."

Turning, she heads from the barn to take care of the horse.


Reese groans as he hangs up his phone. Sighing, he picks it up again then decides to get up instead. He needed a walk anyway.

Heading out across the main floor, he finds Hope at her temporary desk. "Just got a call from Jack Timble before he headed back to work. Apparently Gunner had paid him a second visit the other day after there was a restraining order. At this rate, he's gonna lose his job for good whether I want that or not." He shakes his head. "You going to see him today?"

Faith

Looking up at Jade but not moving his head only his eyes Dan grins as Jade removes his hat. He could feel the heat on his neck rise that moved into his cheeks.

Bending down to gather the things and put them back into the first aid kid Dan stands as Jade gives him his hat back. Taking it and holding it to his free side he cocks his head a little a small grin forming on his lips.

"I've got alot of work here I need to finish or I would be more than happy to help you. If you stick around long enough though I am sure there will be more times I can help."

Giving a little nod of his head Dan turns to put the first aid kit back away and get back to his chores. If he didnt get this stuff done Mike would be on his case and thats the last thing Dan wanted.

Looking over his shoulder before disappearing into the stall he throws a wink at Jade.

"You have a good rest of the day Jade and I'll see you at dinner, make sure they save me some too eh?"

Giving a chuckle and throwing his stetson back on his head Dan disappears into the stall.

Looking at JT and giving a small smile Amanda nods. Giving bref introductions.

"Eli this is Dr. Timble he is helping me with your sisters case. JT, this is Eli Ryan's brother."

Letting them shake hands and chat for just a moment Amanda just stands there before finally starting up again looking between everyone including Leo.

"Well Eli we cant just do the transfusion right away. I know you said you had the blood but we have a run a few tests on you first just to make sure. It could be dangerous for your sister otherwise."

Taking some paper from the desk they where consent forms and wavers it was only procedures to go through this. And though time was short it had to be done anyways.

"I am going to need you to sign these for you and for you sister please. Than we will take you in to do some test on your blood and if it works out we will prep you. You will have to stay a few days here as you will be weak but you will be fine. All we need to do is pray that God will be on your sisters side."

Amanda gives a sweet smile hope was in her eyes thought there was some fear behind them that this wouldent work she had to keep faith that God would do what was best.

Hope

Jade grins up at Dan. "Thanks."

Just looking at him a moment, she cocks her head, studying his face. In a bold move, she reaches up and takes off his hat. Taking a step back, her grin widens. "You ought to take this off more often."

Giving it back to his chest, she sidles past. "I'm gonna hose down this mare before I put her out in the pasture. Help me out, then I'll owe you twice."


Following Amanda, Eli listens intently, his worry increasing. "Look, when I got the message, it sounded like she was gonna be okay. If I'da known she'd taken a turn for the worse, I woulda flown instead of driven."

This seems to satisfy Leo for the moment, so he backs off with his complaints. "By the way, I'm her ex."

Eli quirks an eyebrow. "Then why are you here?"

"Maybe I still care."

Shaking his head, Eli keeps listening to Amanda. Stopping in the middle of the hall, he swallows hard and is silent for a long moment. "You got the right man." He takes his jacket off and tosses it on a waiting room chair. He had no hesitation whatsoever. "When do we start?"

Leo couldn't help just a little surprise. Eli hadn't even questioned the procedure or asked any questions. It was obvious that he cared much more than Leo had thought.

It isn't two seconds later, when JT appears for his next shift, having rested a few hours. He looks immediately to Amanda with hope. "This him?"

Blood

Giving a laugh and a small shake of his head Dan eyes give a twinkle. Jade, was pretty and smart, she new her stuff around the barn to Dan couldnt help but like that in a woman.

"He just worrys about him. Your dad's little girl he dosnt want to lose you, cant blame him for that one."

Taking out a small bandage Dan puts it over Jade's hand giving her another smile. It was nice helping and caring for someone again.

"There you go, if your lucky he wont even see it now."

Hurrying down the hall twords Leo and the other gental men Amanda could over hear them and new this was the man that was here for Ryan.

Exstending her hand to Eli Amanda gives a bref introduction on who she is.

"Its nice to meet you Eli, and sorry for the confustion. This is Leo, Ryan's boyfriend. From my understanding they have been trying to get a hold of you for a few days now. Eli, Ryan was shot a few days back and she lost alot of blood."

Holding her chart and motioning for Eli and Leo to follow them Amanda talks while she walks.

"Normally this would be a simple blood transfusion and the hope that the healing would come fast. But in your sisters cast it's much much different. Your sister had a very rare blood type. We tryed doing a normal transfustion but her body is rejecting the blood."

Amanda is quiet for a very long moment.

"Eli, unless you have the same rare blood as your sister, she is going to die, it will be painful, and just not good. Thats why we needed you."