Scary Eye

"Yeah... okay..." Mick watches Dan go his own way, then gives a little sigh. The man seemed innocent enough... maybe Mick was barking up the wrong tree. Trying to shrug it off, he goes about continuing the chores.


Jade wanders down the driveway, having been walking for the last twenty minutes. It was a little chilly today, and she was glad she'd chosen to put on a jacket. Her mood though, matched the gray sky. Last night, she'd been able to forget and and get away from her worries for a while. Then after her mother's call this morning, it all got flushed down the toilet. But now it was even worse. She and her brother didn't get along all that great, but knowing he was missing... it was scary nonetheless, and she did worry about him. Worse yet, she couldn't even talk to anyone about it, lest her father find out, which was exactly what her mother didn't want.

Her head hurt. She was going in circles and just needed a break. Finding the familiar straw bale outside the barn, she flops down, having dubbed it her thinking spot several days ago. She could hear some of the others moving around inside the barn, but she opted not to approach anyone yet. She just needed to think.


Ryder was only half-listening to Thirteen, but as she joins him, her solemn expression surprises him a little. He question catches him off guard and he has to think for a moment. Eventually he shrugs. "Animals are a lot different than people, Thirteen. I'm not saying I agree with every time an animal is caged up, but most zoos and stuff keep pretty good care of the animals."

He takes another bite of his cereal, only part of his concentration still on the television. "Now I don't put up with abuse, but... you could say it's mean of Laura to have a cat too... or Jamie - she's got a big snake. I don't think it's mean as long as the animal is kept happy and healthy."

He looks a little gentler at Thirteen. "You weren't just caged up." He taps her chin with a bent finger. "They stole life from you. And that's unacceptable."

"The crocodile has apparently made it to the outskirts of the zoo. Zoo keepers are directing people away from this area of the zoo as they continue to try and bring the animal back to..."

Ryder rolls his eyes as he looks back to the tv. "Then you have these idiots who just confuse the animals more by not knowing what they're doing. You'd think if they keep crocs, they'd have brains enough to handle them."

Sighing, he shakes his head before going to put his bowl down in the sink. "I can't watch that anymore." It would only take ten minutes to get to the zoo if he took the back road. He grabs his keys and aims for the door. "Somebody's gonna get hurt, and I don't want them shooting that poor animal."

Stopping at the door though, he turns to look at Thirteen again. His smile was softer than his tone had been. She had come a long way, but there was still a long way yet to go. Getting her out among people and new places without incident made it a good day. "Come on... Let's go have a new adventure, ay?"

Waiting for her only takes a few minutes, and soon, they're heading down the back streets, Ryder behind the wheel of the used car he'd picked up a couple weeks prior. He gives Thirteen a sidelong glance, grinning. "And I thought it was going to be a boring day."

In fifteen minutes, they were parking in the zoo lot. Though open, it was a quiet day this time of the year, and there were few people to be seen - most were at the other end, gawking at what was happening with the crocodile, or being pushed back by zoo personnel. Ryder goes ahead and pays entrance for him and Thirteen, then wanders in the direction of the commotion. There were trees throughout the zoo and long buildings with signs that indicated what was inside. Arrows pointed to elephants, tigers and seals. They had to pass by the tall fences where beyond, giraffes looked at them curiously as they chewed their leaves and grass.

Ryder leads the way, not thinking a whole lot about the animals - he'd been to zoos before. Not this one, but it wasn't anything that was exciting enough to break his concentration as he headed for where the crocodile was.


Gage joins Sapphire in the tiny kitchen, not really sure why he was so awkward. He'd done so much... but it was the everyday tasks he just wasn't familiar with.

"Um... I should be okay for breakfast." He looks at her a little sheepishly. During the last couple weeks, he'd pulled out of his depression, but he was still very quiet, almost timid. Here was as man who had tortured... killed... did so many bad things to people and assisted in the unthinkable. Yet now, he felt as if he were a child. This was a whole new way of life. Though he had the common sense to make it through, and though he had enough logic to survive in society, it was still new... still strange.

Sapphire's offer to help him shop makes him lift his eyebrows. Even while living at TJY, everything had been provided. He'd ridden along with other guys as they'd run errands and bought supplies. But he'd never shopped for himself before. He was used to being in public, but not for that reason... not living.

"Yeah... yeah that would be nice. Um... thanks." A wry grin surfaced. Smiles were still rare, but slowly, they were becoming more frequent. Sapphire was helping him find the things in life that made it worth it.

He looks around the apartment again. It felt a little bit like where he used to live, but it had never been on his own. He had thought he was experiencing so much back with the Agency, but it wasn't even scratching the surface.

He can't help the words again. "Thank you... not just for shopping but... well, for everything. I know I don't deserve friends so... I like it that you've stuck with me."


Susanne goes about her paperwork, busily trying to prepare files for Reese. She had been deep in concentration for a while now, enveloped in her work.

Swiveling in her chair, she reads another line of the pages she was holding before rising slowly, and finally looking to the doorway where she was headed.

Half a face and one gray, lifeless eye stared back at her, the figure hidden around the corner.

Susanne shrieks and her papers go flying in every direction, scattering across the floor. Stumbling backward into her desk, her heart just about pounds from her chest. The freaky eye had disappeared, but now she could hear Scott's muffled laughter.

"Scott Johnson!" Susanne stalks from her office and around the corner to find Scott red in the face from laughing. "You... you... you.....!" She whacks him on the arm several times before being able to calm herself down.

"I'm sorry, I'm sorry." Scott gasps for breath. "I couldn't help it..." Pausing to breathe, he looks at her, trying not to laugh any more. "I wish I could have seen the look on your face though."

Realizing that he couldn't even see her when she jumps, Susanne starts to chuckle. "And it's just as well, you turkey. Now I have to clean up this mess."

"I'll help."

"Don't bother. But you do that again, I'm gonna sock your other eye and you won't be able to see at all for a week."

Still grinning, Scott makes it back to his own office with the can of Mountain Dew he'd originally been after before deciding to tease Susanne with his "scary eye" as she called it. Flopping down in his chair, he looks over to Dalton, tossing him a second can of pop. "How's the system coming?"

Why?

Catching Mick as he goes over Bolt's leg Dan pays close attachen. He could always learn something from him, and liked being up to the challenge of remembering what to do the next time something happened.

"Ok, I'll keep an eye on it, and if it looks like its getting worse, or not any better I'll let you know."

Leaning on the gate Dan waits till Mick is ready before opening the gate for him to let bolt out, and than closing it once again.

Giving Mick a sidelong glance at the mention of his daughter again Dan cant help but wonder if there was a hidden meaning some where or not. He couldnt shake the feeling that there was something behind Mick's questions.

"Yeah we get along pretty good. Though with Jade it seems like it would be hard for her NOT to get along with anyone. Anyways, I better get back to finishing everything up. I need to run into town in a little bit and want to get this all done first. I'll see ya later Mick."

Looking up from her bowl as she sat in the table Thirteen just looks at him for a long moment almost thinking he was crazy. Giving a shake of her head and a small laugh she stands to put her bowl in the sink.

"Honestly I think its pretty stupid they would of tryed to cage him up to start with. "

Running her water through the bowl Thirteen keeps her back to Ryder as she continues to talk.

"Why do they do that? Cage those animals up? I didnt like it, I am sure they don't eather."

Finally turning to look at Ryder Thirteen walks over to him. She seemed a little sad at the though of keeping the animles caged up not truly understanding why they did it.

"I think its pretty mean, you dont?"

Smiling and looking around Sapphire puts down the bedding, and boxs that held dishes and a few odds and ends for Gage. This would be where he would stay now, he could call this home. It wasnt a crappy little apartment and would suit one person well.

"Well, I can still bring breakfast for you if you like but thats up to you. I enjoyed being able to do it for you."

Taking a few of the boxs to the small kitchen Sapphire puts a few things away for Gage. She new this was going to be differnt for him, but she would do all she could to help him get use to it, and know what to do.

"I was thinking if you wanted I would take you shopping so you could get some stuff around here for yourself. I really dont have anything else to do today and I dont mind at all."

Loose Croc

Mick opens his mouth to tell Dan not to keep apologizing, but his intention is replaced with a wry grin instead, and he lets it slide. Nothing seemed to be out of the ordinary from the night before, but... there was still something bothering him about Jade's behavior. Apparently she and Dan had teamed up last night. Not surprising, but... was there a connection? He wondered.

Still working, he quirks an eyebrow at Dan's mention of Bolt. "Mm... he's usually smart enough to stay out of trouble. Come on while the others finish up chores - let's go take a look at him."

Leading the way, Mick heads to Bolt's stall. The gelding met him at the door, confused as to why he'd been taken out, then back in again.

Mick slips into the stall, patting the horse on the neck. "Hey fella.. what's the matter, hmm?" Checking him over, Mick finds the swollen foreleg. Running his hand down Bolt's leg, he feels for any injuries, careful when Bolt shifts uneasily. "Steady... Dan, hold his head, will you?"

He prods around the knee, feeling the heat and swelling. But there were no cuts or scrapes to show what had happened. "Well, looks like he might've turned it or pulled it somehow. I'd let it go today and see if the swelling goes down on its own. If not, we'll wrap it tonight."

Mick straightens and gives Bolt another pat, pausing before taking the horse out. He cocks his head at Dan. "So... you and Jade seem to have hit it off..." He fishes for more information, trying to get to the bottom of Jade's odd mood.


Ryder leans back against the wall, eating a bowl of cold cereal for lunch as the tv drones on the other side of the room. He hadn't gone in to work today. There had been nothing for him to do.

Crunching on the cereal, he stops, squinting at the tv as the reporter catches his attention. The screen showed the local zoo and several zoo keepers who were trying to herd an escaped crocodile back into its pen. Somehow it had gotten out and now they were quite clumsily trying to handle the situation.

"Aw, you stupid..." Ryder shakes his spoon at the tv, tossing droplets of milk in every direction. "Dang yanks are gonna get their hand bit off... no... no, don't use that...aw..." He groans in disgust as the crocodile slips down another path. "See, ya went and scared him. That croc's got more sense than you zoo keepers do."

Taking another bite, he stops again as one of he handlers almost gets his leg bitten. "Can you believe this?" He didn't even know if Thirteen was listening.


Gunner finishes cleaning up, then resumes his seat on the bed, now alone. He appreciated Hope... it wasn't easy for him to show, or admit, but he did know she was just trying to help, and that she meant it. It was odd... now when he was in such a place like this, he realized just how few real friends he had. Oh, he had friends, sure, but no one close... no one to confide in, or lean on. He'd always just relied on himself. But now, when it was a battle against himself, he had no one to turn to. So who was there? Hope... and Bree.

Sitting slouched, he won't move until the nurse finally comes to give him his next dose of medication. But even after that, he sits quietly, alone, opting not to go to the rec room, or read books. He needed time to just be.


Gage sets down his bag, standing in the middle of the empty room. There was one small room here... a small kitchenette off to the side, and then a small bathroom with a shower. It was the corner apartment on the second floor... it did have a window that overlooked a nice wooded patch, so that was nice. It was very... empty. And very... intimidating, despite its small size.

Gage wanders a few more feet in, trying to get used to the fact that this is where he would live now. For the last few weeks, the downstairs at TJY had been converted slightly, to house him and Alec until better arrangements could be made. Reese had been working hard, but the system was simply slow. So the Elite had been very good at providing what they could. Alec was still there, still threatening to get out of dodge, so Reese wasn't willing to let him go until there was some place where he could either work off his energy or do time behind bars. For Gage, he needed to spend his days alongside a police officer, doing community service until he had enough hours built up. Then he would truly be on his own. For now... he got to live in this apartment, with a little bit of money to just get by with food and clothing. Any extra was left up to him to decide what to do with... right now, the first thing he could think of was getting a bed.

The apartment was more like a private halfway house than anything... but apparently the Elite was taking it easy on him because he really wanted to have a better life and be on the right side.

Sighing, Gage tries to swallow the strange feelings. He had done so much with the Agency... yet he had never really lived at all, and he knew so little. Could he really survive? What would he eat? Where would he shop? Would he have any free time? Even if he did, what would he do? It was a strange mixture of imprisonment and freedom.

Turning around, he gives a look to Sapphire like that of a lost puppy. "Well... I guess... you won't have to bring me breakfast anymore."

Bolt

Looking up as Mick enters the barn Dan gives a smile and a nod to him before getting back to work. He liked when Mick worked with him, they didnt talk much and Dan might be a little nervous around Mick but it was only because he look up to his older boss and wanted to do good by him.

"Other than getting a flat tire, no not really. Well we had an ice cube fight half way through the night started by Jason, and...Jade and I beat the other pretty bad the last game. I dont know if you consider that exciting or not, but it was really fun."

Using the pitchfork to continue to much out one of the stalls Dan keeps to his work. He had alot to do this morning and thought he wouldnt let on to it, or let it slow him down he was a little on the tired side. Continuing to work Dan smiles and gives a little shake of his head as well.

"I got introduced to the pizza box last night too. I never saw people cause such a comotion at the dinner table before as that group, but I caught on fast and it was fun too."

Stopping and look at Mick again he couldnt help the small feeling of guilt that washed over him again. He new crap happend, and he wasnt his fault but he had felt bad breaking his promise anyways.

"Sorry again Jade wasnt home on time. I know you said crap happend and all but well..I am sorry anyways."

Continuing to work Dan says nothing more about it. He was done now with saying he was sorry and it was time to move on.

"I noticed Bolt was limping when I took him out this morning. I put him back in his pen untill I talked to you. I didnt want him to injure himself anymore. He leg looked swollen, I think he got into something but I am not sure what."

Bending down Hope helps Gunner with the mess, She new she didn't have to, but she wanted too. Thought she really didnt say much more Hope new that today had been good no matter how Gunner felt about it, she felt good and new he had started the process.

"Well, I am going to go see the Dr and talk with him for a little bit. I'll be back before I go."

Standing Hope gives Gunner a smile before placing some of the papers on the night stand. Turning to exit the room Hope stops to look back in, and than disappears down the hall.

Fun?

Jade shuts her cell phone, staring into space as she sits on her bed. Her mother's voice rang in her ears... she had kept the call quiet after answering it, but now she was torn in two directions.

"Don't tell your father... I don't want him upset or worrying... Ben doesn't want him to interfere..."

Jade bites her lip. How could she not tell her Dad? Wasn't it his right? And right now, she could use a little comfort herself. But she wanted to respect her mom... it could be bad if her dad went in guns blazing... sure, he had past experience but... her mom didn't seem to think it was a good idea. And maybe it wasn't as bad as they thought anyway... Dylan could just be pulling a stupid stunt again. They weren't sure that he'd been kidnapped or anything.

Jade finally slides off the bed and stuffs her phone in her pocket. Mick had called her five minutes ago for breakfast, and she didn't want him thinking anything was wrong.

Hurrying into the hall, she walks down to the kitchen where the little family sat. Once or twice a week they ate by themselves, away from the dining hall, to just have quality time, especially with BJ. Mick had told Jade she was more than welcome to eat at either place, but she'd taken him up on eating with them. She'd see the others later.

Mick glances up as Jade joins them and smiles. "Morning."

She pastes on a smile. "Good morning." Her grin widens at BJ. "Hey you. Did you leave any breakfast for me?"

Mick chuckles and passes her the plate of waffles. "I dare say if you'd been here three minutes later, this kid woulda polished the table clean." He winks at BJ and ruffle his hair. "But that's good. With all the energy you burn during the day, it's good to have a healthy breakfast."

Jade quietly takes one of the waffles, her appetite long gone. But she couldn't lead on that anything was wrong.

After a minute or two of silence though, Mick was too quick to pick up on Jade's quiet mood. It was strange. He gives a questioning glance to Rosetta before addressing his daughter again. "Have fun last night?"

"Mm-hmm..." Jade nods as she takes a bite of food.

Mick quirks an eyebrow. "Well don't sound too excited."

Jade tries to laugh. "No, it was fun. We all had a good time."

"Everything alright?"

"Yeah, yeah." Jade tries to smile again, though it was hard - she knew her dad was smarter than that.

Mick doesn't probe any further, but something seemed odd. Something wasn't right. Did it have to do with last night? He wondered.

Half an hour later, Mick was in the barn, continuing chores from where he'd left off before breakfast. Joining Dan for the rest of the feeding, it's not unusual that they work side-by-side with some of the others to get the job done.

Mick cuts open a bale of hay, putting the knife back in his pocket. "So, Jade said you guys had fun last night... anything exciting?"


Gunner resists, but finally lifts his eyes to look at Hope. She was so tender... so sincere. "I... I don't know what kind of a life I deserve," he returns quietly.

Taking his sleeve to swipe at his eyes, he moves up onto the bed to sit, slouching, but calm. For now, the waterworks were turned off and he was settling down again.

He sniffs and stares at the floor before daring to look at Hope again. After blowing up, letting go, and being comforted, now he just wanted a few minutes alone. He knew that later he would see Bree again, but for now... the door had closed a little again, waiting for another time to be opened. "I'm... I'm okay now." Though he knew he didn't have to be ashamed or embarrassed, he was. He wasn't used to showing these raw emotions like this, and his face is warm to prove it.

He looks to the mess he'd made of the table, books and papers. Slowly, he sinks back to the floor to start picking it up. He knew Hope wanted to see the doctor too.

Life you Deserve

Alice's eyes widen a little bit more still unbelieving that all this was happining. She new it was but it was unreal and one of those once in a lifetime things.

"You have your own movie theater too? Is there anything you don't have? Tennis court? Flower garden?"

Giving a grin Alice nods and looks back to Kyle.

"I guess that is a yes than. Just grab our stuff and we are ready. A new adventure awaits and I do believe this is going to be quite the ride."

Giving a chuckle and another shake of her head Alice looks to Erik a big grin.

"Nah, we should be ok. We dont have much just a few bath and shower things and some clothing. Oh and my old laptop, thats about it."

"Yes Sir, thank you for giving me the time off to go out. Have a good night."

Turning and heading off to porch again Dan lets out a long sigh making his way across the grass. It was quiet this late at night, the bussle of people dieing down as everyone layed quiet in there beds fast asleep. Dan didnt mind the quiet though, quiet was good sometimes.

Finally making it to his bunkhouse Dan makes his way up the steps but getting to the top he turns and sits down just stairing out across the darkend ranch. Only one light was on maybe a bathroom, or someone checking on there baby. But it flickers and than goes out.

Leaning aganst the railing Dan new chores would come early in the morning but he didnt mind. He needed to unwind from the fun filled night. He hoped maybe sometime again soon he would be able to do it again but next time he would be more carfel. He had almost lost his head more than once tonight.

Giving a soft smile Hope stands and looks at Gunner for a moment.

"She might have alot going for her, but I think your something special to her and she would be pretty heart broken to lose that."

Walking over to the far courner where a metal chair sat Hope grabs it before bing it over to where the bed was before sitting down. Leaning forword just a little Hope puts a finger under Gunner's chin and tilts it upwards so she can look at him, a silent signal that there was nothing to be ashamed about.

"Now, your going to continue to get better and I will help, your going to get out of her, and your going to go on with live and live the one you deserve."

A lot more going on

"Oh." Erik looks at Alice grimly. "Sorry... you can't go get any of your stuff."

"You turkey!" Twila gives him a shove, sending him off his chair and onto the floor. She smirks with triumph, looking back to Alice with a giggle. "I stay here all the time. I'll even stay here tonight so you're not the only girl here to start off."

Kyle can't help it that his eyes are wide and he just shakes his head. "I can't get over this... you realize this all sounds so unreal."

Erik picks himself up off the floor to sit back in his chair again. "Meet reality."

"Why though? You could have... anything. Yet you sought me out, you're offering your home... I don't get it."

"I was brought up to give, Kyle," Erik explains. "It's just the way my family is. My parents happen to be extremely blessed financially, and me too as a result. The group of us here..." He gestures at the rest of the band. "We're all kinda like family too. As strange as it may seem, everyone here is welcome to come and go from here all the time. I'm not going to let that offer stop with you, just because I haven't known you for as long."

Kyle laughs, still amazed. "Wow... okay..." It did seem strange, and had it been anywhere else, he would have been weirded out. But there was something about this group... this home... these people... it was full of peace. There was a Godly peace here and Kyle felt it. There was no fear.

He looks back to Alice. "Well, if you want, I guess that means we go get out stuff."

Theo quirks an eyebrow. "I feel a movie night coming on."

"Nothing like a movie night before the real work begins," Russ agrees.

"And you've never experienced a movie night like one here," Theo adds. He grins. "Can you say 'home theater?'"

Erik laughs and shakes his head. "Alright alright, we can have a movie night. Then we gotta start practicing tomorrow if we're gonna be ready to show our stuff." He looks to Kyle and Alice again. "You need any help bringing stuff over?"


Mick takes a deep breath, letting it out slowly. His eyes did not stray from Dan's. The young man was a hard worker - of that, Mick couldn't deny. He did a good job, he was faithful, and he could be trusted around the ranch. But there had been something from the beginning that Mick sensed and he didn't like - though he hadn't figured out what it was yet. Tonight, that feeling was still there. He searches Dan's eyes deeply, though still finds no answers.

Finally, he gives a little shrug, his lips pursed. He didn't want to be mean - he knew Dan was telling the truth, and it was obvious from the time that had they not had a flat tire, they would have been back on time. And Mick trusted the group as a whole. It wasn't really what he had a problem with. But what he did have a problem with, he couldn't put his finger on.

"I know you're not lying, Dan. Crap happens. Jade's home safe, so I'm not worried about it." He grins a little. "And stop shaking in your boots - you're making an idiot of yourself."

Turning around, Mick aims for the door, stopping for another moment to look at Dan again. "You only got a few hours left until chores - I suggest spending them wisely... in bed."


It seems forever, but eventually, Gunner begins to calm down. He felt sick to his stomach and his head throbbed. He felt like such an idiot, yet at the same time, he didn't care. He was sitting on the floor of a mental hospital... if he were normal, then there would be something wrong.

He might not have responded to Hope's words, but he heard them... he heard them and he did think about them.

"Bree's... got a lot more going on than... than just seeing me." He swallows hard, his voice dry and raspy.

Quiet for several minutes, he finally moves back a little relieving Hope and resting back against the bed. His eyes burned like never before, and it hurt just to keep them open. He doesn't look up... he doesn't feel he can. Not and face Hope.

"What's gonna happen to me now?" he asks quietly. How long would he have to stay here? What would it take to get out? If he promised he wouldn't walk off a bridge, was that his ticket out?

Sir

Coming up to the pourch Dan lets out a long sigh seeing the look on Mick's face. It chilled him to the bone and put fear in his heart. There wasnt much Dan feared, after everything he had been through but he was just starting to feel comfortable here, and tonight had helped him feel at home and like he fit but now, in this one moment it could all be snuffed out.

"Yes Sir I did."

Picking at the peace of wood on the railing Dan could feel his insides shakes till finally he looked up at Mick. This had happened, and now it was time to face Mick. He had to, and if he didn't understand than there was nothing else Dan could do but move on once again.

"Please don't be upset with Jade. We really did get a flat. I didn't think about having her call you but Katie did and there was no service. Thats the honest truth, I try not to make a habit of lieing."

Dan looks Mick in the eye as he prays that his boss would believe him. He liked it here, it felt good here and he liked working with the horses. He didnt want to have to pack up and leave already.

Looking up as Kip comes back Alice takes notice to the change in him. Figuring it had something to with the phone call she could tell it wasn't good. Glancing at Kyle she gives a nod he had noticed too. Trying not to bring any more attachen to it Alice moves on with the conversation it was not her place to say anything.

Hearing that Kyle and herself could stay at Erik's Alice looks up quickly a look of shock on her face before looking to Kyle and than back to Erik. She could only imagen what the rooms must look like and what the beds felt like. Looking back to Kyle her eyes were still wide a little.

"Well...I...dont know what to think at this point."

Alice gives a little laugh before looking around the room and back to Kyle again.

"I dont see why it wouldnt be ok, but we dont have any of our cloths, or bath stuff here. We would have to go back to the hotel and get it first."

Continuing to hold Gunner Hope new it hurt, Hope new everything inside of him was being wripped a sunder, and she wished with the snap of her fingers she could make it go away. But it didnt work that way.

"Gunner, your not a monster because of this. You didnt take the wheel from your Dad's hand and drive the car off the road. It was an accident."

Continuing to rub Gunner's back and hold his hand Hope is quiet for a minute letting Gunner lean into her. She didnt mind, and it didnt bother her one bit.

"You need to forgive yourself and let go. Let God take your pain Gunner, let him comfort you and wrap his ever lasting arms around you. He holds nothing aganst you, and condemns you for nothing. You want so bad for people not to judge you, or look down on you well you need to not do that to youself as well."

Hope sucks in a deep breath of air as she takes a tissue from her pocket and whips Gunner's eyes and nose not because she was babying him but because she was trying to help him not feel more of a mess than he already did.

"Its going to hurt Gunner, its going to hurt for a while, if it didnt than I would know something was wrong. But you have to know that it was not your fault, you are not a murder, and you need to live on for those around you. I think Bree would be mighty lonly without you around dont you?"

Papa bear

For a few seconds, Gunner tries to fight off Hope, but it's as if all his strength has left him. Still hunched over, he rocks, trying to combat all of these strange and unwanted feelings. But it didn't seem to matter anymore. The floodgates had been opened, and there was no stopping it now.

Tears stream down his face as the loud sobs continue. It was his heart being ripped in two.

Feeling Hope's hands, it has a strange effect. She was soft, warm, accepting, forgiving... patient... not condemning. She was the only clear thing in the room.

Gunner finds himself leaning on her, trying to absorb the comfort she offered. He hadn't wanted it before... but in this moment, it was far better than the torment he was going through. He was desperate to seek shelter, whether it was in the form of Hope's offer to soothe or not, but right now, she was the only thing present. The meds were gone, the stars were out of sight, and there were no bridges... it was just him... and one of the few people that wasn't willing to give up on him.

"I... I spent all my life..." He chokes as more tears come, making speech difficult. "Looking." He gasps for breath, trembling. "And it was me... I was the one... I killed them... I'm... I'm the one that stole my own life."

Shaking with each sob, all of Gunner's torment comes out. For so long, he'd been looking for answers... looking for who had dealt him such a bad hand in life... looking for who was responsible for his life without a memory to the past. And it had been him all along.

"I don't know what... what to do," he whimpers. He felt like a child, just adding to the embarrassment, but he couldn't help it. He didn't remember what it was like to receive comfort... he didn't remember how to accept it.

All he can do is hide his face in Hope's shoulder as he cries, simply unable to control it. "It hurts."


Though Kyle returns Alice's kiss, his eyes are a little wide in surprise. They didn't normally kiss like that in front of others. But it seemed not to matter this time... for nothing else could have answered him like that. And he knew that she was on his side.

Twila bites her lip and grins, giving the other guys a sidelong glance as they grin too. Erik clears his throat.

Kyle chuckles and takes Alice's hand before looking back at the others, his face a little red. "I... guess that means we're gonna give it a shot."

"Woo!" Theo throws his arms in the air.

Erik smiles from ear to ear. "That sounds like a yes to me."

Kyle gives Alice's hand a squeeze. "It does to me too."

Ross holds up his glass. "This deserves a toast! To Kyle and his shadow... may this just be the start of our journey."

"Here here!"

And talk begins of plans, timing, and what would happen next. Everyone is so busy chatting, that it seems no one even notices Kip's return twenty minutes later. He rejoins the group just as they're explaining that the studio is about an hour away and that it would be just a couple weeks before they would go and show off their stuff.

Kip sinks back down to the floor by one of the chairs, almost hiding, his hype strangely gone. His eyes were just a bit red...

Kyle catches Alice's eye, his gaze asking if she'd noticed Kip as he had.

"...So yeah... you guys are welcome to stay here."

Kyle snaps back to attention to Erik's offer. His eyes were wide again. "Um..." He glances to Alice. "Sounds better than a hotel... what do you think?"


Mick is standing on the porch when the pickup arrives. His arms are crossed and he's leaning against the railing post, calmly watching.

Jason pulls up closer to the garage and lets out a sigh.
Papa bear doesn't look too happy.
"All ashore who's going ashore."

Jade scrunches her nose and gives his shoulder a little punch teasingly. "Thanks for the ride."

"Oh sure... you're welcome for the flat too." Jason slides out first, helping a couple of the girls out. Last is Katie, and he takes her hand to walk her to her bunk.

Clint slings an arm around Wendy's shoulder as they walk to their own little home, his strides deliberately slow. He'd had too much fun tonight to want it to end, even if he was exhausted. Getting back inside, he kicks off his boots and flops down on the bed, his jacket still on. "Mmm... I'm getting too old for this," he kids.

Jade is still at the truck looking towards her father and she swallows hard. Glancing at Dan, she shrugs. "It's been a long time since he's killed anyone. I'm pretty sure we're safe." Grinning, she heads to the porch. "Hey, Dad. Sorry we're late. Flat tire."

Mick quirks an eyebrow, his lips not turning up. "Sounds like a good reason to be late. Cell phones die too?"

Jade smirks at him. "Dead zone."

"Convenient."

"Dad!"

Mick gestures with his head to the door. "Quiet going in. I just put BJ back in bed for the third time."

Jade can sense now isn't the time for justifying the late time, and all she can do is look over her shoulder, throwing Dan a smile of thanks for helping make tonight a fun time.

Mick's eyes follow his daughter in until he looks back to Dan. "Have fun?"

First Step

Seeing a few tears and the look in Gunner's eyes Hope new a few things that might happen next and she was ready for it. Sometimes it was hard going through this differnt stuff, the road was never easy but what was important was having someone there who could keep you afloat.

As the table and papers go everywhere Hope doesn't flinch. She wasn't scared of Gunner and she new he wouldn't hurt her. She'd been through this before with many others, and she would go through it again and again, this was more that just a job, this was helping those who needed it.

Seeing Gunner fall to the ground and slam his fists into the tiles on the floor Hope is quickly to Gunner's side waving away some of the other nurses that had apeared.

"I can handle this. Go back about your business."

Wrapping her arm over Gunner's shoulder Hope just gently rubs his arm. Trying to bring what little comfort she could.

"Its ok Gunner, Its going to be ok I promise. There is nothing to be ashamed of ok?"

With her other hand Hope gentily takes Gunner's in her own holding them so no more harm could come to them meeting the cold hard floor. Her heart acked for him, but at the same time she was happy he was letting his emotions out.

The emotions and feeling he was feeling were coming out, and it was what was needed. In order to get better Gunner had to let go first, and this was the first step.

It was you all along

Gunner shoots up on his bed, having not known Hope was in the room. With his guard down from being startled, her first few words hit him like a knife to the gut. He almost flinches as the burning behind his eyes worsens.

Not saying anything, he just watches her, listening and then glancing to the cold treat. He knew that inside was both root beer and ice cream to make the float, so it wasn't unusual for Hope to be confused as to why Bree would say it was without the ice cream... but Gunner understood.

He swallows hard as the emotions continue to build. He didn't like this feeling... almost like he were suffocating. His eyes follow Hope as she stops at the window, but he doesn't bother to explain the strange papers that were stuck there. Instead, he reaches for the cup, taking a sip as if hoping it would calm him down. It does a little, but he finds that his hands are shaking slightly. He really doesn't hear what Hope is saying, most of his concentration going towards blocking those things that made his stomach turn and his chest tighten.

Then she's in front of him again and he refocuses, managing to upturn the corner of his mouth at the mention of a vampire. "Just a... failed tactic."

Looking into Hope's eyes, the feeling of helplessness increases. He had nothing to fight with anymore. He was stuck in a prison... not only in this building, but inside his heart as well. It was a prison of guilt... shame... embarrassment... confusion.

The cup starts to freeze his palm and he places it back on the table before he drops it. He wants to get up and walk away, but his feet feel as if they're cemented in place. What was it about Hope that drove him to this point? What was it about Bree that made him feel as though he should give up the hatred of himself?

The first tear finally pushes its way to the surface. Gunner is on his feet in an instant, going to stare out the window with his back to Hope. As he feels the second tear forming, he opens his mouth to bark at Hope to get out, but for some reason the words just don't come. He didn't want anyone to see him like this, yet he didn't want to be alone. It was the most confusing feeling he'd ever experienced.

An anger builds up inside of him. An anger for these feelings. An anger for letting them in. An anger for how far he'd gotten and for where he was being held. It was an anger born of desperation... a cry for help.

It was you......... It was your fault
.......You're a murderer............. You killed your own parents
...............You're no better than a killer.............. You did it
.. You deserve to die......... How could you do that?
..You've been chasing ghosts...........
.........It was you all along

In one frustrated growl and a swift sweeping kick, the little table by the bed crashes to the floor, two of its legs snapped and scattering in several directions. Papers go everywhere, books toppling to the tile as innocent bystanders of the outburst.

Gunner's fists are balled as he breathes heavily, his back still to Hope. Then another tear comes, followed quickly by another. He sinks to his knees in complete emotional exhaustion. His eyes sting and his vision is blurred by the salty onslaught.

Curling forward, he hides his face in his hands, anguished sobs spilling forth from a tormented soul. He chokes as he gasps for breath, but there was no stopping the emotional downpour now. Crying out, his fist slams into the floor, unable to cope with the horrid guilt he felt.

Sometimes its ok...

Looking back at Kyle Alice's eyes twinkle. After being here for only a little over an hour she already felt comfortable, and being next to Kyle it almost felt like home. A big grand home, but home no the less and she didn't mind if anyone else heard what she had to say to Kyle or saw her express her love for him.

"I'd never ask you to give something like this up Kyle. This is a once in a life time opportunity."

Though she did miss Nevada and the joys of sometimes just sitting down to a quiet book never would Alice regret coming on the road with Kyle. She had gained so much to miss out on it would of being a fate worse than a crick in the neck from sleeping in her jeep.

"I'll follow you to the ends of the earth and back again Kyle Mitts, as long as I can keep calling you mine. Pen in hand, and paper ready to report, that is if everyone else is ok with that as well."

Leaning a little close to Kyle Alice brushes her lips against his before pressing them firmly to how own letting her emotions wash over them. Finally pullying away and looking Kyle in the eyes a smile on her face and her eyes dancing with Kyles.

"I love you Kyle. Your shadow will follow on."

"Sometimes..its ok to cry you know. Even for a grown man."

Hope enters Gunner's room after seeing him shoot down the hall and into his room. She had come to talk with the Dr. after Bree had told her somethings she was not to happy about but see Gunner move quickly to his room was more important than talking with the Dr. that could wait.

"My dad told me once when I saw him crying, "A man's not a man unless he crys." Sometimes I think alot of men lose that thought thinking emotions and tears are a weakness when really they can be out greatest strangth."

Setting the styrafome cup down on Gunner's dresser what was inside was ordered from Bree knowing Gunner might need it after his session with the Dr. today.

"The milk shake was from Bree, she said you might need it. I didnt quest understand what she ment when she said it was a rootbeer float without the ice cream but she said you would understand."

Moving over to the wall and than to the window Hope looks at the picture of a hand print along with letters that were cute into letters and shapes.

"I'm going to be talking with the Dr. today Gunner and look over the medicen he has been giving you. From what Bree has told me its has been more harm than help and I think the Dr. is stupid. If he refuses to take you off them, I will take that bridge when and if we come to it."

Turning Hope looks to Gunner again before comes over to him and bending down next to him cocking her head just a little to look him in the eyes.

"I want to do everything I can to help you Gunner. Even if it dosnt seem like it ok?"

Giving a small laugh Hope remembers something else Bree had been rambling to her and trys her best to lighten the mood if only just a little.

"So whats this I hear about making Marge thing your a vampire?"

Guilt... Me...

Erik chuckles as he eases down in an overstuffed chair. "We try not to make a big deal of it... My family feels blessed... and we try to bless others with what we've been given. There's cons to living in a place like this but... I've gotten used to it."

"Gotten used to it." Twila scoffs. "I live in a trailer park with my grandma. This is heaven." She grins at Alice. "Which is why I spend half my time here!"

Theo puts his feet up in another chair, smiling. "As if you're the only one."

Erik just grins. "This house is the house of friends," he explains. "Here it's anything, any time, no matter the need or the hour."

Kip perks up to the sound of the doorbell. "Especially the pizza guy." Hurling himself over a piece of furniture, he almost knocks over a table on his way, bumping a vase that Erik dives for, just in time to save it from an awful fate. "Kip!"

All that's heard is laughter as Kip runs to meet William.

Russ shakes his head, remaining serious on the outside, though the humor was evident in his eyes. "Alice... Kyle... get used to this, um... refined... humor?"

"I wouldn't call it refined," Twila corrects. "It's... um... it's..."

Erik sees Kip return with two pizza boxes balanced on his head. "It's unique."

Kip gives a silly grin as he sets the boxes down on a coffee table. "Soup's on!"

"Mmm... dig in guys," Erik prompts. "Oh, and we got drinks... Coke, Mountain Dew, tea, wat-"

"Mountain Dew," Kyle interrupts. He grins. "For Alice and me both."

The next half hour is spent just having fun and eating. The group took to Kyle and Alice like old friends, and even treated them as such. It was as if they'd known each other all their lives. Whether they stayed together as a band or not, it was quickly evident that friendships would remain.

"So..." Erik leans back in his chair, sipping on the last half of his Coke. "How-"

"Are you gonna join us?" Kip interrupts.

"Kip!" Twila chides. "We weren't going to pressure him, remember?"

Kyle laughs and shakes his head. "It's okay. I was just thinking this morning that-"

"Kip!" Erik's mother calls from the other room. "Telephone!" Her tone wasn't upset, but it wasn't happy either.

Kip bristles.

Erik lays a hand on his shoulder. "You don't have to take it."

"Yes I do." Kip stands from his seat on the floor, setting down his plate of pizza crusts. "Be right back."

The others stare after him as if they already know what the outcome of the call will be. Erik clears his throat. "Um, sorry... where were we?"

"Kip was asking if I'd join you guys." Kyle sinks back in the couch and turns his head to Alice. He didn't mind speaking in front of the others. "You know if we get this deal, we might be on the road again... Nevada may or may not be a stop on the list for a while still. I don't want to do this if you'd rather go home... I don't want to go without you." And he meant it. He had no doubt that his feelings for Alice had grown, as had hers towards him. But distance apart would be hard, and he didn't want to risk that loss. If she wanted to go home, he would sacrifice this deal.

The others wait quietly, not wanting to intrude, but all waiting to hear the outcome. They were all at a crossroads, and they simply wanted to know which direction they would be turning.


Jade reaches up to take Katie's phone, but flipping it open, she shakes her head. "That's what I thought. There's a dead zone for about three miles between town and the ranch... we're smack dab in the middle of it."

Jason grabs the spare tire as Clint goes for the jack with Dan's help. Jason chuckles at Dan's comment. "Yeah, the girls seem real scared," he jokes.

"We could always let them walk," Clint suggests. Then he stops. "On second thought... you two get to go to your own bunks tonight, while I have to go home with Wendy... I really don't want to deal with her wrath."

Jason grins as they work on the tire. "Yeah, she seems like the rough type."

Clint laughs. "She does know how to smack me upside the head pretty good. Thankfully she doesn't use that tactic very often though."

"With you? I half expected to find you all black and blue."

"Heeeey." Clint threatens him with part of the jack. "Watch it. I'm in better shape than the last time you saw me."

Jason chuckles. "So I see." He gives Dan a sidelong glance, noticing the other man's nerves. "We can blame this whole thing on me," he assures. "Nobody will die... tonight anyway."


"Heart."

"Beat."

"Stars."

"Light."

"Friendships."

"Foes."

"Memories."

"Television."

The doctor quirks an eyebrow. "Love."

"Spaghetti."

"Hope?"

"Clam chowder.

The doctor tosses his notebook aside and sighs deeply. "Bren-"

"Gunner."

"Gunner... when are you going to stop playing these games?"

"What games?" Gunner picks at his fingernails. "You're the one with the cue cards, not me."

The doctor's eyes narrow. "How long ago did your medication ware off?"

Gunner's gaze shoots up. "What medication? You put me on medication?!" He jumps up from his chair, putting his hands to his head. "No wonder I can't sleep or eat or think straight! You've had me doped up! I should have known! All this time, I've been-"

"Brent, sit down."

Gunner drops his hands, and flops back down into the chair, his mock tantrum halting abruptly. "Chair."

The doctor sighs. "Memories."

"Forbidden."

"Love."

"None."

"Hope."

"Bree."

"Past."

"Nightmare."

"Guilt."

"Me." A lump rises in Gunner's throat, despite his attempts to combat these tactics. But when he let himself go for a split second, feelings rose within him that he wanted to snuff out.

"Life."

"Worthless." Gunner's on his feet again, pacing. "Are we done yet?"

"No. Sit down."

Gunner obeys grudgingly.

The doctor holds up a card. "What do you see?"

Gunner squints. "A... blotch of purple paint?" He shrugs. "Beats me."

"This one?"

He cocks his head at the second card. "Your mother?"

The doctor isn't amused. "What about this one?"

Gunner almost jumps as he sees a shadowy-like form. Except his imagination places evil eyes and fangs where he'd seen them once before. "A monster."

It seems like forever until the doctor stacks up his notebooks and sets his pens aside. "Dr. Garrison may be coming to see you today. In the meantime, if you wish to remain in your room, you may do so. Otherwise there are activities..." His voice trails off as Gunner disappears out the door. "...in the rec room."

...Gunner falls onto his bed face-first, burying his head under his pillow. He felt like such a child. Here he was, as grown man, forced to play these stupid games, and follow curfew rules like some rebellious teenager. He was an Elite agent for crying out loud! He wasn't crazy, and he wasn't retarded. Yet here he was in a loony bin, all because he'd wanted to take a long walk off a bridge.

Turning over, he curls up onto his side to stare at the wall. "Guilt... me..." He scrunches his eyes shut tight. No... he wouldn't let his emotions take control. He wouldn't!

Kansas anymore!

Anything for you.

Katie lets a warm emotion soak through as Jason gets out of the truck to work on the tire. Dan slipping out with Clint to give Jason a hand. Looking in the back seat with Wendy and Jade Katie toss her cell to Jade.

"Call your dad so he doesn't have our heads thinking we are keeping you out later than he said."

Getting out of the truck to help Jason Dan glances down at his watch. There was no way they could change the tire and get back by one. Mick was going to kill him and Dan couldnt help the sick feeling in his stomach. This was all he needed was to upset his boss after he should of been back at the ranch doing chores.

"Alright, lets see hoe quickly we can do this before the girls get to scaired being out here alone with us."

Dan tryed to joke to cover up how nervous he really was. Surely Mick would understand right? But still Dan couldnt help the sinking feeling in the bit of his stomach.

Entering the large house Alice couldnt help but gawk at everything. She couldn't help it, it was so big, so beautiful, so expensive. Wrapping her finger around Kyle Alice leans into him as they follow Kip.

"Toetoe, I dont think we are in Kansas anymore!"

Giving him as mile Alice continues to walk stoping a moment to look at some of the painting on the walls. She reconised some of the painters and the work was beyond compare. Maybe something Alice had seen in a book before but never in front of her own two eye.

Finally getting to the room with the others Alice sits down close to Kyle not being able to help her surprise but happy that Kyle was here. It was differnt, to be around this and she couldnt help but feel like she might break something.

Hearing Erik's comment Alice gives a small laugh shaking her head just a little.

"Not much, just a little?"

Alice nods around the room and looks back to Erik still smiling to show she wasnt trying to be rude at all.

"This is something I only ever dreamed about as a kid. And now here we are standing in the dream."

Gonna kill me

Kyle stares ahead at the house, brought back by Alice's kiss. He starts to smile, then shakes his head, then starts to laugh. "And I wanted to say no?"

Shaking his head again, he puts the jeep in gear. "If you're intimidated, what do you think I am? I got you along for security, remember?" He tosses Alice a wink, still grinning. Maybe... just maybe things really were going to start looking up...

The doors seemed huge. Really, they weren't all that large, but standing on the wide stone patio in the front, it felt like a castle. The house had three stories, and it was obvious that it spread much farther into the back that couldn't be seen from the driveway. Kyle looks at Alice a little uneasily before finally getting up enough nerve to ring the doorbell. They could hear it chime inside, and Kyle half expected a butler to appear. It's a relief when no butler or maid showed up.

"Hey, you made it!" Kip smiles from ear to ear. It was immediately apparent that though the house was extremely elegant, Kyle and Alice would not be out of place. Kip had jeans on with holes in the knees, an old t-shirt and was running around in his bare feet.

Kyle chuckles. "Yeah... got lost once... or twice, but yeah. I... wasn't expecting this."

"What?"

"Um..." Kyle grins. "Never mind."

Kip motions them in. "Come in, come in, come in. We're out in the back room." Shutting the door behind Kyle and Alice, he then waves to a middle-aged man, dressed in a suit. "Hey, William, bring the pizza back when it comes, would you?"

The man nods. "Sure thing."

Kyle's eyes widen a little. A butler. There was one here. This was unreal. He glances to Alice, feeling like a school kid in a museum for the first time. This was incredibly out of their world... yet it was everyday to the people here. It was interesting Kip was asking things of the butler though. Kyle did wonder about that.

Heading across the grand entrance, Kyle slips his hand into Alice's, giving it a squeeze. This was fun. The ceilings were high and bright, and a chandelier shone way up high, surrounded by a glass dome. And that was just the beginning. A winding staircase was off to the right, by a wide hallway that led who knew where. To the left there was just visible a huge dining room with an incredibly long table. Maybe those closed doors led to the kitchen. They walked down a couple steps then up again, heels clicking on the shiny, tiled floor.

Finally they reach a back sunroom, equipped with glass walls and roof. From here you could see more of the house that wrapped around back, along with a flower garden, just starting to go brown before winter. To the right was a closed glass door that led into a a room with an indoor swimming pool. It took a lot for Kyle to keep his jaw from dropping.

"Kyle! Alice!" Erik is on his feet, greeting them both warmly. "Have a seat. We're just listening to some music and hanging out before the pizza gets here."

"Which should be in..." Kip looks at his watch. "Five minutes."

Kyle feels just a bit awkward, and slowly sits down on the edge of one of the two plush couches, almost pulling Alice down with him. At the moment, she really was his security.

Erik seems to sense the apprehension, and tosses Alice a wink. "Don't worry, guys. We're not that much different than you."

Kyle's face reddens just a little as he looks down sheepishly. "Was it the deer in the headlight look that gave us away?"

Erik chuckles. "Maybe."


Gunner watches Bree go, lifting his eyebrows just a little. "Yeah..." Sighing, he turns to Marge, tempted to show his teeth, but he knew Bree was right... he might be depressed, but he'd learned the hard way what bucking the system meant in a place like this.

Lowering his head, he stuffs his hands in his sweatshirt pockets and shuffles down the hall behind Marge to the office where one of the doctors was waiting.


At first, Jade feels a little annoyed. It seemed Jason had it out for her tonight, even though he was kidding around with her. What was wrong? She shrugs it off for now, figuring it wasn't worth a discussion.

Throwing Dan a grin, she bats her eyes teasingly. "I am the queen of butt whupping."

"Put your money where your mouth is," Clint dares.

It doesn't take too long for the game to finally come to an end. Though all felt as if they could go all night, bodies were getting tired. And the time was getting late. By the time they all pile back into the truck, they would have just enough time to get back to the ranch before anybody started to worry.

Assigned seating was forgotten, and while Jason ended up back behind the wheel, it was Katie and Wendy next to him this time, with Jade between Dan and Clint in the backseat. While Clint was busy elbowing Jade to pick on her, laughter was still going around. Getting onto the back roads, there's suddenly a loud pop and the truck gives as violent jolt. Jason has to grip the steering wheel hard to keep it under control, putting on the breaks slowly and pulling off to the side. Stopping, everyone had gone quiet. Jason lets out a groan. He knew what it was. Opening his door, sure enough, the left rear tire had blown. "Alright, guys... I got a spare in the back. Gonna need your help."

More groans make their rounds.

Be right back. Keep the seat warm.
Jason pulls the collar up on his jacket as he steps out of the truck, motioning for Dan and Clint to follow.

Jade looks out the back window as the spare tire is retrieved. "Ohh... this isn't good. We're gonna be late and Dad is gonna kill me."

Maybe

Alice did all she could to keep Kyle calm knowing his nerves were running high. She could help but feel the same way herself. This was something new and exciting that was happing to Kyle but it was happing to her as well, and would change both there lifes.

"No no, this is the right street I was paying attachen this time and I am sue they will understand if we are late. Its not like we travil these roads every day."

She throws a sidelong glance at Kyle Alice gives a big smile just trying to lighten the mood in the car and calm the nerves.

Looking out the window at all the houses that pass by Alice cant help but start to wonder herself if many they were lost. Looking to Kyle again one of the houses catchs her attachen the bushs turned into different animals.

"OMG, Look at the topiary on that house."

Erik has said he was well off, not rich and to live in a house likes this, you had to have alot of money. Alice had never seen houses or yards so big before and kept in such good condition. It almost seemed so breath taking.

Leaning over Kyle a little to look out the window at the house they stoped at that was Erik's Alice is very quiet for a long moment her mouth seeming to hang open.

"This...is unbelievable."

Turning her head to look at Kyle Alice gives him a big kiss on the lips her excitement bubbling again.

"Maybe we are in the wrong place..."

But seeing the car she new they were in the right spot. It just seemed so hard to believe that this was really happening.

"Well...I guess we better get to the door before we really are late? But I have to addmit I am not even part of the band and I feel a little intimated. Excited but a little intimated none the less."

Standing Bree looks to the nurse and gives her a small nod. They all new she worked here, and if they new why she didn't know but she highly doubted it. Giving a gentil pat to Gunner's shoulder Bree smiles down at him offering to help him up.

"I work here now, well at least for a little while. We all need friends in high places sometimes, and I'll be darned if they make you worse than you are."

Looking over to Marge Bree gives a small nod.

"He's doing good today Marge, eat his breakfast, and is calm. Don't aggravate him and I am sure he will keep his vampire side at bay."

Looking back to Gunner Bree's eyes smiles as her lips did not the twinkle in them hoping to bring hope. She would be here for about another hour but Gunner would still be in his session so she wouldnt see him again till that night.

"Remember what I said ok and I will see you tonight."

Feeling the change in Jason's emotions Kate cant help but question them for a moment before regaining her own self. Jade really didnt know Dan and she was flirting with him pretty bad. If anything happen it would be all there head's Mick would have and thats the last thing she wanted.

Seeing Jason, and hearing his words Dan can pick up on the tone of his voice and knows he better back off. Taking a few steps back he holds out his hand to Jade, though he wouldnt have kissed her he was thankful for Jason's interruption.

"I think Jason's timing was just right, or we would never get this game done with."

Glancing down at his watch and that back up at the gang she gives a smile.

"We have an hour left. Lets get this game over with so no one was wonder would would of won."

Katie looks around the room at all her friends before giving Wendy a high five after she strike as a job well done. That had put them into the lead now.

Looking over to Jade and giving a smile Katie nods.

"Your up Jade..."

Dan gives a smile and a thumbs up to Jade.

"You can shoot better than I can, come on and kick there butts."

Surprise

Gunner shakes his head, a very faint grin forming. "I'd hardly say it's difficult to deal with you, Bree."

Each moment that passed, Gunner felt a little more lucid. The more lucid he felt, the more he realized he did not want to be here, or take the medications they were giving him. He didn't want to feel so out of it anymore. It was a horrid feeling. But staying calm would only work for so long. Eventually, they'd give him a dose just because. He sees the nurse again, then glances to teh clock on the wall.

"Almost time to see the shrink and discuss..." He blinks, his mind having gone totally blank. He hated that. "...um.... paint splotches. And word... relations."

He sighs. "And I thought Hope was bad. This is like right after the accident all over again... minus the freaky nurse."

Gunner crumples up the empty wrapper and finishes the rest of his orange juice. He still looked at Bree skeptically though. "You told me why you wanted to be here but-"

"Okay, Brent, time for your visit with the nice doctor." Marge smiles sweetly down at him. "You'll have to say goodbye to Bree for now."

Gunner gives a little smirk. He was just beginning to feel halfway normal, and it was starting all over again. Standing, he still looks to Bree, determined to figure this out before the other nurse dragged him away. "You didn't say why you were here.... like this." He gestures to her nursing garb. He still didn't know that she had taken a position here.


"Gah!" Clint throws up his hands as Wendy gets a strike. "That is so not fair!"

Jason laughs, his arms still around Katie, as he rocks her a little, now hugging her more than restraining her. "I hate to admit it guys, but the girls might just have us beat."

I guess there are worse things than being beat by you.
Laughter bubbles through the emotions.

Hearing Dan's suggestion, Jade continues to wail. "Not the garbage can! Yes, it's too cold outside. Put me down!"

Finally released to slide down to her feet once again, Jade tries to catch her breath, looking up into Dan's eyes. A smile is pasted on her lips. "Thank you, sir. Though I must admit I'm a little disappointed you didn't go for the consequences of not putting me down."

Something sparks in Jason's emotions as he overhears the flirtatious comment. Was it fear? No... almost a desire not to be irresponsible. He lets it slip, forgetting Katie would feel it.

Giving her a little squeeze, he steps away from her, strolling over to Dan and Jade casually. Leaning down to Jade's ear level, he whispers, but it'd loud enough for Dan to hear. "Do I have to get another ice cube?"

Jade shoots him a glare. "Your timing is always so perfect. I'm surprised TJY didn't hire you for a clock rather than a fieldman."

Jason grins and straightens back up. "Clint, your cousin just insulted me. What are you gonna do about it?"

"Who me?" Clint's eyes widen. "I think I'd like to just stand back and laugh, actually."

"You would." Jason smirks, turning back around. "Are we gonna finish this game or what? Don't forget papa bear is watching the clock."


Kyle sits behind the wheel of Alice's jeep, driving slowly down the unfamiliar streets. He had talked with Alice all day, still undecided, but leaning towards trying out with the band. If they weren't good enough, they'd be turned down and that would be that. If they were good enough... things would change rather quickly.

He had been reaching for his phone just an hour before to call Erik, when it had rung - and it had been Erik, inviting both Kyle and Alice over to his family's house to eat a pizza supper with the band. It hadn't taken much convincing and Kyle had jotted down the address.

Now he'd already gotten lost once, but figured he was back on track. These streets though, just didn't look right. He glances over to Alice. "This is gonna look real good - me showing up late like this..." He had ten minutes left though... surely he wasn't lost again.

He looks out the windows at the houses. "This can't be right." They had reached the far side of town where the houses were elegant with rolling lawns, iron fences and manicured bushes. Erik had said his family was well-off, but this had to be wrong.

"I'm gonna have to call him." Kyle rolls his eyes. "I was sure this was Westside Drive though."

Then he suddenly sees the house number he's looking for. "Oh, oh, there it is." He points excitedly, pulling just into the driveway then stopping. He blinks. "Ohh... this just can't be right." He looks at Alice uneasily, then back up the long.... long.... long driveway. The iron gates were open. The lawn trimmed perfectly, even for the late time of year. The trees were all turning for autumn, but there were no fallen leaves on the yard. It was too cold for the fountain to be on, but it stood proudly in the center of the circle drive. And the house was huge.

Kyle blinks again. "Um..." He then spots a familiar car closer to the house. It was one he'd seen the other day at the rec hall. He turns to look at Alice again. "No way."

inches

Watching the nurse out of the corner of her eye Bree was happy that she just passed by now as Gunner played off the meds still in his system. Thinks about Gunner's question for a long moment before replying.

"Becuase I like you, and I dont think there is anything wrong with you. I...dont have any friends and when I finally get one, I'd rather not lose him or change who he is only how he handles things."

Giving Gunner a smile and a small nod Bree's eyes give a small sparkle as her smile fades to show she really was still smiling.

"Friendship and Family mean alot to me, both are things I lack. So I hold on to what I can get and hope they can deal with who I am."

Wrapping her arms around Jason as he leaned over her shoulder Katie gives a gentil sigh.

I think I like it better this way too.

Leaning back to give Jason a kiss Katie just smiles before looking back at the other again. Shaking her head and laughing at Dan and glad to see the smile on Wendy and Clint's face.

Taking the wall from Clint Wendy gives a giggle before leaning into him and giving him a kiss on the lips.

"Yeah you got your hands full alright."

Setting up the ball and moving down the lain a little Wendy draws the ball back and than forward agian letting it go down the lain. As the ball hits the pins and knocks them all down Wendy gives out a little shreak and goes back to Clint giving him a smile.

"Boya baby..."

Moving around in a circle a few times Dan's laughter is strong feeling Jade's fists on his back.

"Lets see, I could throw her in the garbage can, but she is far from trash, I could throw her outside but its to cold there...mmm.."

Just standing still for a long moment Dan it about to speak again but stops dead as Jade mentions the kiss attack again. Moving twords the set of chairs Dan Lets Jade slide onto them so she is standing in front of him. Not meaning to be in the position they were in they are inchs from each others face as Dan breaks deep from laughing so much. Dan's eyes twinkle just a little.

"There you go my lady, safe and sound on the ground once again."

On your own

Part of Gunner wanted to remember the night before, while part of him wanted to forget it all together. But he knew Bree was right... he did remember her showing up... before the nightmare had disappeared. Coincidence?

He takes another bite of his breakfast sandwich, still trying to get his mind to think straight. There was still so much that was foggy and lethargic.

"Um... I don't... I don't understand what you're... doing here. I mean..." He squints one eye, not sure if he was choosing the right words or not. "Last night... this morning... "

Catching sight of the moving nurse out of the corner of his eye, he immediately bristles. He tries to stay quiet though, attempting to follow Bree's advice in the hopes that it would at least postpone his next dosage. "Why? Or... what... why are you here?"


Clint falls hard on his bottom, letting out a wail as Wendy sends him to the floor. "Not fair!"

Jason tries not to laugh as the women take over the situation, and he tries to guard himself against Katie's tickling. "Oh no... no, no no!" He blocks Katie's tickling, but fails a couple times, flinching under her fingers. "No!" Laughter mixes in as he squirms until he's finally on his feet again. Grabbing Katie from behind, he holds her arms tight.

"Got you now." Leaning over her shoulder, he gives her cheek a kiss.

I rather like it this way.

Clint scrambles to get to his feet as well, laughing as he pulls Wendy to the lane. "You're up, you smarty pants, you. Why don't you show us how wonderful you are at knocking down pins instead of your husband?"

Being picked up and slung over Dan's shoulder, Jade shrieks. "Help! Dan, you turkey! Somebody help me!"

Jason has Katie locked, and glances over to Dan, laughing. "Well, looks like you're gonna have to make up your own mind what to do with her!"

"Jason!" Jade retorts. "Help me!"

"Sorry... I got my own hands full. Why don't you ask your cousin?"

"Nope, sorry." Clint still had a hold on Wendy, giving her the bowling ball. "Busy."

Jade's face was getting red from laughing and being upside down. "A fine bunch you are!" She kicks a little. "Dan Palmer, put me down! Or I'll hold you to that kiss attack!"