Dangerous

Gunner was so warm and comfortable... much more relaxed than he'd been in weeks. Maybe he'd just close his eyes... for just... a moment...

He'd just drifted off when he suddenly felt an odd sensation to the bottom of his feet. Jerking awake, he moves his legs, only to find that Bree had a hold of him and was tickling him.

"Ahh! You... Bree!"

JT nonchalantly looks over from the chair, as if he were unamused, except for the little smile at the corner of his mouth. He just continues watching the movie.

Gunner shakes his legs until he can get loose. Shoving Bree back off onto the floor, his legs go over her shoulders and wrap around her neck. Hooking his ankles together, he holds her there, not letting her go. Leaning back, he just relaxes his upper body, putting his hands back behind his head, while letting his legs hold Bree prisoner.


A shiver runs down Jade's spine as she continues to look into Dan's eyes, then feels his hand on her face. It was rough but warm, feeling of hard work under honesty.

Jade swallows hard, leaning in a little closer. Closing her eyes, she could feel Dan's breath on her face and another tingle spreads through her. Why her hands trembled slightly, she didn't know. "You realize... this is... dangerous," she whispers.


Leo isn't sure if he's going to get reprimanded further or not, so when Ryan moves closer and he feels her lips on his, it gives him a start. He opens his eyes a little in surprise, though is unable to pull away. But even though his pride warned him not to let her kiss him like this, something else took over... something he just couldn't seem to control. He'd missed her... and even though he'd been stubborn, he'd wanted her back since the beginning of their whole breakup.

His hand that's holding the ice pack slips down and out of the way as he slowly returns Ryan's kiss. It hurt his lip just a bit, but he really didn't care. His other hand, though with just as sore battered knuckles, slips up behind Ryan's head and through her hair.

Miles' eyebrows raise just about as far as they can go and he looks to Eli, blinking. Eli's mouth is hanging open just a bit as he cocks his head, unable to help but stare. He felt like he should probably back away but...

Miles clears his throat.

As Ryan draws back, Leo looks up into her eyes the best he can without being able to open them all the way. They were full of want... full of question. Why had Ryan just kissed him? Was it really true that she really did care? Did this mean there was still hope for the future?

"I... think our friend is going to make it," Miles comments dryly.

Eli steps closer again, with an eyebrow quirked. "I don't know... he looks a little feverish to me."

Leo would have rolled his eyes, had it not hurt to do so. Instead, he just shuts them and leans his head back. But hidden was his hand that had slid down to rest in Ryan's palm.

Eli returns the cold pack to Leo's eye, a little harder than the last time. "I think you need a rest after that."

Leo smirks. He didn't even know what to say or how to act now. "I think I need my bed," he mumbles.

"I think you should spend the night here," Eli suggests.

"Naw." Leo shakes his head. "Just get me home, alright?"

"Look, Bub." Eli looks at him sternly. "You had a death wish to begin with, you refused the hospital, now you're going to take an order whether you like it or not. Until I'm convinced you're alright, you're staying..."

An hour later, Miles was gone, Leo had made it to the living room couch to lie down, and Eli was scrounging for an extra pillow and blanket.

Leo winces as he curls up on his side, not waiting for the pillow. He'd managed to drink a little water, but otherwise, he'd refused much else. Seeing Ryan out of the corner of his eye, he wonders again about earlier. Would she say any more? Was that it? Did it mean more?

Attack

Reaching up and cradling Jade's face in his hand for a moment his eyes searched hers. The warmth inside him grew just a little more.

Why did he feel like he had no controlle. He was walking dangerous ground he new he shouldn't. But it was like his body and mind were no longer connected.

Giving a small smile Dan whispered.

"You don't need to thank me when its the truth."

Running his finger gently over Jade's face he new his hands were rough but her skin seemed to sooth the acked from the days work that throbbed in them.

Staying pretty quiet once they are back at her place Ryan move back and forth with her brothers direction ignoring the throbbing in her wrist. She felt worryed, and horrible inside seeing Leo like this.

Cleaning his face gentily as she could Ryan catchs Leo's eye many times just looking deep into them each. She'd been so worryed all day and now here he was and she still was worrying.

Hearing why Leo went and started something with Roth makes her stop for a moment just staring at Leo. He'd dont it for her, Leo had risked going aganst Roth because of what he had done to her.

"That was a stupid thing Leo you have ever done."

Nothing being able to the the feeling she had inside or even being able to describe it Ryan leans in taking Leo and pressing her lips to his. Trying to be gentil but being ferm at the same time. All her emotions put into the kiss pulling away for a moment only to turn her head and go back for another kiss. Letting it linger for a long moment till finally she pulled away.

"Thank you."

Giving a nod to her uncle Bree snatches one of the pillows and places it behind her back to try and get comfortable.

"Yep, nothing like ending the week with something sappy."

Waiting for JT to pick the movie and than saying grace Bree was ready to dig in. Cutting the crustless pizza and scooping it into her plate she uses her fork to eat it enjoying every moment.

Finally about about an hour Bree puts her plat down on the table. She had eaten way to much but today it tasted way to good. Leaning her head back she bumps into Gunner's leg and brings her head back up again turning to look at him.

Behind her eyes a grin formed as she plotted something to wake him. Turning the other way slowly Bree reachs behind her and grabs Gunner's feel holding them tight before bringing her other hand around and running her fingers along the bottom of his foot.

Rosetta listened to Mick closely. After there talk and understanding on a few things she was feeling better and now that the conversation had gone back to Dylan and Rosetta wanted to know what was going on and if she could help.

"Ohhh Scott's here yes yes thats fine. I never wanted to come across like I didnt want you to help I just new there had to be some way for you to be here and do so."

Continuing to listen and giving nods and smiles Rosetta new things would work out and Dylan would be ok.

"Katie is going back tomorrow, I am sure Reese with put her on this case too. That alone gives me comfort that Dylan will be ok. God will keep his hands wrapped around Dylan as well. Always remember that. He has his hands around you as well."

Compromise

Jade's mind stops as Dan whispers. Lifting her head a little, she turns her face to his, only inches away. His eyes were so soft... so full. She felt like she could just fall right into them and never look back.

"That was... a nice thing to say." A grateful smile barely creases her mouth. "Thank you."


Eli takes Leo's other side, and together with his sister, get him to his feet. Leo holds in a groan of pain, and his knees buckle at first, but after a couple steps, he's able to help support his own weight on the way back to the car. Miles takes the backseat again, helping Leo partially lay down for the ride to Ryan's. Eli wastes no time in getting out of there and back into town.

Once they arrive at Ryan's, Eli and Miles follow to the front door, with Leo between them. Getting him inside, Eli directs Ryan to get a kitchen chair and put it by the sink. Easing Leo down into the chair, he goes for a towel, wetting it with cool water. "Your face looks like hamburger," he muses.

Leo keeps his bruised eyes closed, managing a wry grin. "I'll take that... as... as a compliment."

Miles stands back skeptically. "You sure we don't need to take him to the hospital?"

Eli doesn't answer right away, but hands the towel to Ryan. "Start cleaning the dirt from around his cuts and get all that blood off of him. I'll go get some bandages and some bedodine ." He's back in less than a minute, looking Leo over while Ryan cleans. "Any broken bones?"

Leo winces as a cut on his face meets the abrasive towel. "Mm-mm... I don't think so."

Eli pulls up Leo's shirt and feels around his ribs.

Leo cries out and jumps. "Would you-"

"I don't think your ribs are broken," Eli surmises. "But you've got some pretty deep bruising there."

"I feel like I got run over by a truck," Leo mumbles.

"A truck?" Miles cocks his head. "Or something meaner?"

Leo clamps his mouth shut, holding his breath as Eli and Ryan's pressure to his cuts and bruises hurt like mad.

Eli forces him to open one of his eyes, making sure it was just bruising and nothing worse. "You confronted Roth, didn't you?"

Leo swallows hard. He didn't look at Ryan. "Nobody else was."

Miles sighs. "That was real smart, Leo... real smart."

"Well I-" Leo stops, having opened his mouth too wide, making his whole face hurt, and making his lip bleed again. He pauses, just letting the other two continue to clean him up. "He deserved it... after.... what he did."

Eli looks across at Ryan, the look on his face saying, He still cares. "Here." He hands her a softer cloth and some bedodine. "Make sure you get all his cuts, and put some of this on his knuckles too." Letting her take over with that, he wraps some ice cubes in a towel and places them over Leo's worse eye. "Can you hold that here, Leo?"

Leo reaches up with a sore hand to hold the icepack in place, feeling a bit useless, but forgetting about his pride for now. He was too tired to fight the help.


Gunner gives Bree a bit of a sheepish grin. He felt stupid for feeling awkward at all. This was Bree... his friend.

Wandering forward, he accepts the middle position on the couch, easing down but not spreading out, for fear of getting in either Bree's way or JT's.

"Movie!" JT votes. He looks to Gunner. "Apparently Bree is neutral, but everyone in this house gets a say, so what say you?"

Gunner's eyebrows rise. "Um... movie is good. As long as it isn't a sappy romance."

JT grins. "Naw, that's reserved for Sunday nights. Right, Bree?" He wasn't ashamed to admit he could enjoy a chick flick with his niece, and any time she wound up at his place on a Sunday night, that was the kind of movie they watched. Sometimes he ended up falling asleep, but he liked letting her enjoy whatever movie she wanted, even if it was a sappy one.

Gunner chuckles. "You two get along well, don't you?"

JT moves to the shelf beside the tv to scan the movies. Looking over his shoulder at Bree, another smile surfaces. "Yeah, we do." Glancing back to the movies, he finally settles on a good drama/action flick. Once it's going, he flops down on the couch by Gunner, says a quick prayer for the meal, and they can dig in.

By the time the movie is halfway over, JT has moved to his easy chair, while Gunner has curled up in the corner of the couch behind Bree, a little drowsy, but not enough to fall asleep.


Mick closes his eyes and lets Rosetta close, leaning his head down on hers. Slipping an arm around her, he kisses her head and just sighs. He knew they would be okay... this was just another bump along the way... but it never made it easier.

Withdrawing a little, his gaze is down, but he nods. "I know you're with me... and... and I need that." Right now, he had a goal, and that goal was to help find Dylan. But without that, he would have already crashed a second time. "I won't ever hurt you or BJ. I know I snapped at you both, and I'm so sorry about that... I don't even remember what all I said, but it probably wasn't nice. I just..."

Unexpected tears spring into his eyes, and he has to stop and clear his throat to compose himself. He knew he had a problem, and it was hard to admit, especially after he'd been doing so well for so long. He'd fallen off the wagon and he knew it. "I just want to get through this one thing at a time. Right now, it's Dylan and I'll deal with the other later. I got mad at you and thought I knew what I was doing, but I was upset enough that I wasn't even thinking straight."

Sitting a little straighter, the shift in conversation helps him maintain control as he keeps Rosetta's hands in his. "When I got to the airport, I couldn't get on the plane... not knowing you were back here as upset as you were. Wrong or right, it didn't matter to me... I just couldn't leave you like that. So... I started making phone calls. I canceled my Elite flight and I called Reese. We talked and made a bunch of plans, and tomorrow, he's getting his team together to start where Dylan was last seen. I'm still going to be involved though, and I hope you're okay with that. I... didn't come home alone."

He pauses, pursing his lips. "Scott flew down. He's going to set up a little work station here so I can see and hear what's going on. So I'll be here but... with them at the same time. That way I can still be here for you and BJ but... I can help with Dylan too." He searches her eyes with hope. "Will that work?"

By some chanse

Feeling Jade lean on him and not expecting it Dan gives a small jump but recovers quickly. It felt strange to have someone leaning on him like this again but there was a warm softness that made him slip his arm around Jade and letting his hang over her shoulder.

"Nah, I'm sure he does. It just seems like he has a lot on his might right now. Maybe when things calm down you can ask him again if you can stay."

Leaning his head down for a moment Dan gives the soft sent of Jade's shampoo and feels her soft hair on the side of his face. A sudden and unexpected lump forming in his throat. Managing to swallow it Dan lifts his head closing his eyes for a moment letting the strange feeling he has pass. Than opening his eyes again he looks to the stars his voice coming out a soft whisper.

"And if by some bogus chanse he doesn't want you around than he's not as smart as I though he was."

Ryan rolls her eyes but was thankful Leo's sense of humor was still in tact. If anything with a little help that alone told her he would be ok. Looking at her brother Ryan nods not even hesitating.

"Yeah, he can come to my place thats fine. Come on lets get him up and some place warm."

Moving to Leo's one side Ryan gentily slings his one arm over her shoulder while she waits for someone to take the other side.

"Come on Leo lets get you some place warm and cleaned up."

Seeing Gunner come around the corner and into the livingroom Bree's eyes twinkle. She still felt strange about what she said earlier but if she didnt bring it up or act different things would be the same right?

"Hey Hey Vamp. We got normal pizza here..."

Bree rolls her eyes and scoffs.

"..Normal. And we have crustless on this side."

Bree moved her eyesbrows up and down making it clear she liked that side the best.

"So we got the food, we got the pizza now we need a game or a movie or something."

Looking up at Gunner Bree pats the coution on the coutch next to her signaling she would be sitting on the floor so if he wanted to take the place he could right between her and JT.

"You can sit here. I promise I wont bite, hard."

Listing to Mick's words Rosetta chocks on her own tears. Her mind listens and process everything he said carefuly to catch what he said and over come her own silly emotions. But as Mick continued to talk the tears fell from Rosetta's eyes as she couldn't controller them any longer.

Taking her hand from Mick's Rosetta reachs out and pulls him to her wrapping her arms around him. Burrying her face into his shoulder she is quiet for a moment as the tears continue to fall.

"I was so silly to have those feelings, and I am sorry I didn't tell you sooner Mick."

Finally letting go of him Rosetta looks Mick in the eye once again. She had, had all these fears and though they were still there they seemed to dull with Mick's words. He told her things, he never had before, and she new how he felt about her, the past and the present.

"I never new you felt all those things Mick, and I never new thats how you felt about me. I'm sorry if you didnt understand me before, and I'm sorry if I seemed like I didnt want you to care about Dylan because thats not what I was saying at all. I care about Dylan like he was my own son and I want to be a step mom to him, and Jade."

Looking down at Mick's hands for a moment Rosetta ran her thumb over his calluses and the rough area's on his hand. To her, they were soft, and they were the hands that protected her and there little family here.

"No matter how many times you slip, as long as you dont try to hurt us I will always be there for you. You dont have to go through it alone, no matter what I am here."

Awkward

Jade can't help another laugh. "Mm... that dream might never come true. Dad's a tough cookie..." Her smiles fades as she recalls arguments with Mick. "...too tough sometimes." She sighs. "But I love him. I just wish I understood him."

Letting her body shift to the side, her head rests on Dan's shoulder. "I really don't want to go back home. I do like it here... I'm just not sure he wants me, ya know?"


As Ryan comes skidding around the corner, Leo feels a bump to his leg and he grunts, cringing as Ryan calls out. "Good grief, woman," he mumbles. Squinting, he tries to focus on her face. "Lets not... not panic, shall we?"

He sucks in his breath, wincing. "What're y...you doing here, hmm?"

Hearing Ryan's call, Eli sprints in her direction followed quickly by Miles. "Ryan what..." Eli skids down next to her, not having to finish his question. "Oh man... Leo."

Miles' eyes are wide. "Is he okay?"

Eli reaches down to feel Leo's pulse. "He's alive."

Leo coughs. "How 'bout you ask... the half-dead guy, huh?"

Miles laughs. "Still got your sense of humor."

Eli is still checking him over, kneeling next to Ryan. "We gotta get him to a hospital."

"No!" Leo winces. "Please... please no... just... just take me home."

Eli shakes his head. "You're hurt and-"

"Please?"

Eli sighs. "We're at least going to help you."

Miles looks at his watch. "Ron should still be at the shop if we want to take him there."

"Too dirty." Eli looks to Ryan. "Can we take him to your place?"


JT grins and gives Bree a loving hug. He laughs as she looks around for Gunner. "No... you didn't scare him too bad. He's here. Should be any minute anyway."

He moves to the living room to set everything around so the three of them could sit on the couch and share the pizza from the coffee table.

Gunner hears Bree and takes a deep breath. Why he suddenly felt a little awkward around her, he didn't know. Well... maybe he did know. But what she'd said to JT didn't change anything, right? Everything was still the same.

Splashing a bit of cold water on his face, he looks himself in the mirror, but gives up on making himself look any better. After looking at the photos, his appetite wasn't quite what it was a while ago, but he'd join JT and Bree as planned and no ruin their evening.

Coming from the bathroom, he wanders back down the hall and to the living room, his hands tucked partway in his jeans pockets. "Hey..." A wry grin emerges. "Bringer of the pizza made it."

He stands awkwardly and scratches the back of his head. "Um... hi."


Rosetta's whole reasoning catches Mick off guard. Having thought she was just jealous or overreacting, hearing what she had to say was a bit of a shock. He'd never known she felt this way... had these kinds of fears or feelings.

Staring at her across the table, he just blinks, his mouth partway open. Amazement appeared in his eyes. Amazement for his blindness, and amazement that these feelings could even exist. But here was his wife, admitting how she really felt.

"Rosetta, I..." He stops again and leans back in his chair, his eyebrows raised in bewilderment as far as knowing what to say. His anger was suddenly gone. There was something bigger that needed to be fixed before saving his pride.

Taking a deep breath, he lets it out slowly, and looks down at the table for a few moments. He hadn't planned on talking about this, but apparently Rosetta needed him to rewind much further than the last couple days.

Mick rises from the table, looking as though he's going to leave, but instead, he moves around the table to sit next to Rosetta. Reaching across the corner of the table, he takes her hands in his before lifting his eyes to gaze straight into hers. He could see the tears that wanted to come, and they hurt like daggers.

"I have never... ever... loved anybody like I love you." He keeps his eyes locked with hers, his tone even and serious. "I married Jill... yes, I did. I was upset about losing every friend I had at the hands for the Agency. I was lonely. I was tired of fighting. Did I love Jill? Yes." Mick swallows hard, but he won't break his gaze. "Yes, what developed between her and me was love. Would I have stayed with her, had she not thought I was having an affair? I don't know. We had problems. Lots of them, after the honeymoon stage was over. I can't say if I would have stayed with her or not. But I didn't. Bad things happened and my world was torn apart all over again. And all over again, I was alone and tired. I threw myself into my work, not even realizing who I was working for, I was so blind. Then even that fell apart. My drinking got worse, everything was out of my control all over again. And then something special happened."

His grip tightens on her hands. "You. ...You happened to me all over again. The woman I'd lost came back into my life, and I realized for the first time that there was enough room in my heart to love someone even more than I ever had before. Jill and I... I wouldn't have married her, had I not loved her. But you..." He stops, his expression almost one of anguish. "...I'm just glad that I didn't see you again while I was still married. Because, God forgive me, I don't know what I would have done. There was a piece of my heart that always belonged to you... I'd just covered it up with other things so I didn't live life in misery."

Shifting his weight, Mick cocks his head slightly so he can still see Rosetta's eyes. His voice had grown quieter and quieter. "Do you understand what I'm saying? I don't care if I experienced a wife and family before you. I don't care if you and I won't have our own kids... or that money goes into the ranch. And when you come inside at night, your hair a mess with manure stuck to your boots, I love you even more than the day before."

He stops, finally breaking his gaze. His voice wavers just a little, his fingers trembling slightly. "I'm... I'm sorry that I'm not strong enough to fight the battle against alcohol. I'm sorry that I'm not strong enough to trust others to keep my family safe. I'm sorry I'm not man enough to come and talk to you about my problems."

By now, his head his hanging. "I just... God gave me three kids and... and... and I go crazy when one of them is in danger."

His thumb rubs Rosetta's hand as a bead of sweat runs down the side of his face. With his emotions on a rampage, his craving was getting worse. He was fighting so many things at once, and he just wanted this stupid tension to end. He just wanted peace again. "I'm... I'm just sorry," he whispers. "I don't know what else I can say."

mistake

Taking her tea and sitting down across from Mick Rosetta sips it just letting him talk. She would listen, keep her feelings in check and than answer. Though it was hard she had to keep her own emotions in controlle and not let them fly. BJ was sleeping and the last think she wanted to do was wake him.

"Mick, did I answer you yesterday when you asked about BJ? No, I didn't so your assuming I would let you go than to when in fact I still would be upset if you did. There would be nothing we could do if BJ was missing ether. I would have told you the same thing I did yesterday that you place should be here and if they needed us, than they would contact us just like I did with Katie when she feeling like a daughter to me."

Letting out a sigh Rosetta looks down to the small ripples of her tea. This was so silly, she felt like a little lost kid all over again with many more responsibility on her shoulders. Why did have to be hard?

"Mick, I know I am not second best, and I know you love BJ and me both but I cant help having that feeling anyways. This one is not your problem its mine but its still there and it hit when you ran off. I felt like I wasnt good enough because you didnt even bother to come and talk to me first. You went off and got drunk out of your mind, than you snapped at BJ, and Me. I guess it was just a chain reaction."

Looking up at Mick again Rosetta kept her tears that wanted to come at bay. This was not the time, and though she felt so strange she felt so fradgle too.

"I guess sometimes when I think about it your my first for everything, but I am not your first. I can't give you kids, all the money I have goes into this ranch, I am rough and tumble looking, I just worry that I'm not good enough. Stupid to think that yes, but I just cant help it. I guess I always womdered why if I was good enough you never married me first?!"

Rosetta didnt know if she made sence, and she didnt know if Mick would understand or not. She hoped he would or at least ask some questions if he didnt so she could try and explain a little more.

Gotting out of the car and going over to Leo's an almost panic look cross her face. There was only one person who came to mind with damage like this. Opening the door and looking into the car Ryan looks for anything that might tell her where Leo was now but comes up empty handed.

Shaking her head and throwing a look of worry to her brother Ryan turns her eyes again to the ground looking at the many tire tracks but there was one set she was looking for. Finally finding it she follows it a little way noting it went twords the abandon buildings.

"Guys..."

Ryan continues to follow them as she got closer and closer the sicking feeling in her stomach growing by every moment fearing the worse. Hearing some noises by one of the dumpsters Ryan turns her head quick not sure what the noise was.

Squinting just a little Ryan can make out a foot from the other side of the dumpster. Panic grasps her chest as she breaks out into a run.

"ELI...GUYS...HURRY."

Coming around the dumpster Ryan slids on the ground ignoring the pain that shot through her wrist as she landed on it funny.

"Leo, Leo...SOMEONE HELP."

Letting out a small sigh Dan pushs off the ground and movies to the bale of hay next to Jade just thinking for a moment.

"My dreams were put out a long time ago. Now I just to take it one day at a time and see what that brings me."

Leaning back and turning his head to see Jade a small smile forms on his face. His past was sad, depressing, and something he hated to talk about. He'd rather just stay off the topic for now. Dan had just formed his friendship with Jade he didnt want to end it so soon.

"I guess maybe I dream of one day winning the trust of your father."

Dan can't help the small chuckle that escaped his lips.

Not even bothering to knock on the front door Bree enters a pizza box and some soda in hand.

"All ashore thats coming ashore, get it while its hot or I am eating it all."

Setting the box down on the table along with the soda Bree opens the pizza up smiling at the side that to anyone else would look like a horrible mess up by the pizza shop. Turning to see her Uncle Bree's eyes twinkle as she gives an excited wave, walking over to him and giving him a kiss on the cheek.

Backing up a little Bree pokes her head into the living and than the kitchen but not seeing Gunner she looks back to her uncle and raises her eyebrow.

"I really did scare Vamp off didn't I?"

Don't understand

Miles speaks before Eli can even answer Ryan. "Naw, Leo would never do a think like that... I mean, this is Leo we're talking about. He's not a coward but... since when have you seen him start a fight?"

"Trouble is," Eli reasons, "he didn't start this one."

"Tell you what." Ron takes control of the conversation. "If we still haven't heard anything in another hour when we're done with the work day, we'll look for him, alright? Maybe it's for nothing, but it might make us feel better. Okay?"

It's agreed, and work resumes, though no one really wants to admit how worried they are about their friend. Even Darrel comes in later, expressing his concern, and agreeing that someone should at least check out the desert area where the races were held.

At five, all the guys shut down a little faster than normal. Darrel is already gone, and Ron agrees to stay at the shop in case Leo shows up or calls. Jed opts to go check out a couple bars where Leo has hung out before, while Miles hitches a ride with Eli and Ryan in her car. There aren't any races tonight, but they head in that direction anyway, hoping for a clue at the least.

Getting outside town and towards the abandoned buildings and desert area, the scene is deserted. The setting sun casts long shadows over the empty, unofficial race site. It appeared no one was there, until Eli spots a car off to the side. "Looks like somebody left their junker here."

"That's no junker." Miles' tone was strained. "That's Leo's car."

The windshield was smashed, the driver's side window was gone. Lights were bashed out, and multiple dents made it apparent that someone had taken a baseball bat to the vehicle.

Eli lets out a low whistle. "Somebody had some fun."

Parking near the other car, the passengers get out and scan the area.

"Leo!" Miles shouts. No response. "Hey, man, you here?!" Nothing.

Eli gives Ryan an uneasy look. "What do you think?"

Not too far away, hear one of the dark buildings, a figure is curled up behind a dumpster. He didn't know how long he'd been there... he thought maybe a night... it felt like it maybe. In reality, it had been since the late night before. A cold wind creeps behind the dumpster and Leo shivers. His whole body felt like a great big dead weight. His face was cut and bruised, sporting two black eyes, a split lip and multiple cuts on his cheeks. His own knuckles were skinned, proving he'd done all he could to fight back.

Not knowing what had roused him, his eyes close once more. But there it was again. He'd heard his name that time, clear as day. Trying to roll over, he groans. Everything hurt. As he tries to sit up, his foot huts a couple empty beer cans, sending them rattling out from under the dumpster.


Jade laughs and shakes her head. "As much as it costs to go to Hawaii, I think I should probably stick to something a little less frivolous."

Cocking her head, she takes a deep breath of the night air and just studies Dan for several moments. Leaning back, she squints a little, sensing some melancholy. She wasn't sure why, but even though he'd been listening, she sensed he'd been in a whole other world at the same time. "What about you?" she asks softly. "What's your dream?"


"So whatcha gonna do now?" JT brings several glasses into the living room, waiting for Bree and the pizza to arrive.

Gunner has been wandering the living room, checking out family photos on the wall. He was so absorbed that he didn't even hear JT's question.

JT ambles up behind him, following Gunner's gaze to a picture that was taken years ago at a family Christmas gathering. JT was present with others who maybe were his parents and siblings or cousins. Everyone was smiling, and wrapping paper was all over the floor. There were kids present, grinning from ear to ear and clutching what were probably new toys.

"Mm... that was a while back," JT muses.

Gunner almost jumps. "Yeah." He keeps on thinking, feeling as though he wanted to reach out and touch the photo. "I wonder if I had any family Christmases like this."

JT suddenly realizes why Gunner had been so far away. "I bet you did... I bet you had happy times."

Gunner furrows his brow, unsure. "You know... I often thought maybe I did... but then I keep remembering that no family showed up when my parents were gone. So if I did have good Christmases..." He pauses. "...I guess they were short-lived."

JT purses his lips, feeling bad for the younger man. Gunner had a lot of layers to him... and the lowest ran quite deep. JT's question was still unanswered, but he didn't think he'd ask again. The sound of a car provides the out. "Sounds like the food's here. Hungry?"

"Starving." Gunner pulls himself away from the pictures, shifting gears. "I'm... just gonna go... clean up, if that's ok."

"Sure, sure." JT gestures down the hall towards the bathroom. "Second door on the right."

"Thanks."

JT makes sure he's headed in the right direction before going to open the door for Bree.

Gunner shuts the bathroom door and leans back against it for a moment, taking a deep breath. He was exhausted, and he'd thought his feelings and thoughts about his parents would at least take a break with all he'd been through at the hospital. But apparently it had just made it easier for everything to continue surfacing.

Feeling not quite in control, he just wanted a moment to regroup before going back out to see Bree and eat.


Mick's shoulders drop even a little more, hearing Rosetta's words. Why were things so difficult all of a sudden?

He tries to interject a defense, but stops himself before saying something he regretted, and lets Rosetta finish instead. Sinking down at the table, he puts his head in his hands until she's said what she will. "Do you think I have forgotten about BJ?"

He lifts his eyes, shaking his head. "Don't you think I realize I have two sons now? Or that I have responsibilities here?"

Waiting for Rosetta to join him, he takes a deep breath. Yes, he was tired. He was exhausted. But this couldn't wait. Keeping his temper in check was not his strong point, but right now he had to keep calm. There was a sleeping child down the hall that he did not want to wake.

"You got upset yesterday when I asked you if you would act the same if it was BJ. But I didn't think it was unfair of me. You don't want me putting Dylan ahead of BJ, but why do I need to put BJ ahead of Dylan? It's a two way street, and I'm the one that's stuck in the middle, looking for the balance."

Mick stops, trying to put together his muddled thoughts, while trying to keep his tone down as well. "I know that... that there's a part of my life that you were never part of. And I'm sorry. I'm sorry you can't understand where I'm coming from. When I married you and we adopted BJ, yes, I started a new life. Yes, I accepted a whole lot more responsibilities. But that doesn't mean I forget my other family altogether. I have Dylan... and I have Jade. If it were BJ that was missing, you can bet your life I'd be doing the very same thing here... and it hurts to think that in that case, you wouldn't mind, but when it's Dylan, you try to keep me here. I just..."

He shrugs lamely. "I guess I don't understand."

Crustless

Looking to her brother as he joined the small group Ryan cant help the look of worry that pass over her face. Leo might be made at her and they might not be dating anymore but he still ment a great deal to Ryan and she was worried.

"You don't think he did anything stupid do you Eli? We know first had what Roth is capable of with no worry about getting caught."

Ryan hadent even noticed she moved a little closer to her brother and was holding his arm lightly as she might had when she was younger.

Dropping her hands from Eli's arm Ryan looks back at the others. She couldnt help the sicking feeling she felt in the bit of her stomach. Something was wrong she could feel it, but there was nothing she could do about it right now.

Her cheeks were horribly red but hearing Gunner's comment at least told her he was not going to high tail it out of there never to talk to her again. That made her feel a little better.

"Yeah, I'll pick up the half crustless Pizza, and tell Vamp to bring the blo...I mean soda."

Bree can't help her chuckle that escapes her lips.

"I'll see you guys in about an hour and a half."

Hanging up the phone Bree just sits on the edge of her bed for a moment blinking into the dimly lit room. She really couldnt believe she nearly just spilled her guts to her Uncle with Gunner sitting right there. Leting out a sigh and standing to gather her things together and take a shower a small smile forms in Bree's lips.

Listing to Jade talk Dan looks out across the back part of the ranch. Soft mooing from cows far away, joined in to the nicker of some horses that were left out for tonight in the field. The sound was soft and soothing mixed with Jade's voice it set the stage as Dan's mind wonders to the love he once had.

"Its not big but I though for now it would be ok!"

Dan leads a slender brown haired woman into a small old apartment. It wasnt the best place but it wasn't the worst ether. It had two bedroom, a bathroom, kitchen and a livingroom. For now it was just what they needed.

The slender woman rested a hand on her stomach that pushed out from her shirt proving there was more than just two people in this discussion, just one had yet to be born into this world, her other hand locked with Dan's.

"Its perfect Dan, as long as its a roof to keep us dry and a table to put our food. I am happy."

Smiling back at the woman Dan ran his hand along the side of her face pushing some hair behind her ear.

"Your perfect Becca, a diamond among rocks. You could do so much better and yet, you gave up your whole life for me."

"It was worth it Dan, love was worth it."

Light catches the courner of Dan's eye coming from around the corner at the main house where BJ and Rosetta were bring Dan back from his though he sit up a little to streach and than leans back again.

Though his mind had been far away remember a time long gone Dan had still caught everything Jade had said. Giving a little nod he turned to look at Jade once more. Her honesty was amazing, and her head in the right direction, even if some detours were made he couldn't say he hadn't had them ether.

"Thats not corny at all. It's strange how dreams can change over the years. To something new, or something only a little different from the original, and sometimes even dieing away completely."

Letting out a small sigh Dan new the last part well, he two once had a dream of life and love. It was all planned out, he was set and he was happy. But one stupid choose, one stupid mistake had changed all the forever sending the comfortable life he would have crashing down. A small wetness formed in Dan's eyes at the though. Trying to change the subject and push the memories away once more Dan gave a little smile.

"Hawaii huh? Now that sounds like a dream worth holding on to and not changing."

Backing up a little so Mick could enter the house. Rosetta was happy to see him but she still could shake the strange feeling she had. It was not something she was use to having around Mick, and it always felt awkward.

"I am glad your back."

Was all she could manage to say. Why was it hard to find the words she wanted, why didnt she just reach out and pull him into a hug. This was not like her when it came to Mick. But than when Mick's next words come Rosetta understood because deep down somewhere she new he still didnt understand a word she had said.

"Well, if your angry for that than your angry for nothing because I wasnt trying to give you a guilt trip at all. I was simply stating a fact that most people would agree with. Also I wasnt angry with you because you wanted to find Dylan, I was angry with you because you were leaving your responsibility here behind."

Letting out a long sigh and rubbing a hand over her face the lines under her eyes said she was stressed and more than likly had been crying alot. She felt so confused herself and the emotions she was had just seemed still but they were there and the worry layed behind her eyes.

"Staying here and trying to find Dylan is fine. Just dont forget you have another son too. The last few days he has been pushed aside when all he's wanted to do was spend time with you. He's starting to grow so fast that he is interested in everything Daddy does."

Going to the cabnit and pulling out to coffee mugs Rosetta feels them with water to start some tea. Keeping her back to Mick she works quietly for a moment before turning around.

"I think there are somethings we need to talk about. I'm not sure what, or even how to say everything but I just dont think this issue will be cleared up not will we be able to get past it unless we do. So we can eather do it now, or wait I'll leave that one up to you in case your tired."

Enough to turn around

Miles and Jed exchange looks before focusing on Ryan. "Um..." Jed shrugs. "Where else would we look? I went to his place, he's not there. I know a couple of his buddies, and they don't know where he is. He's not answering his phone, so... unless you have any bright ideas, I think we'll just have to trust he's okay."

Eli is standing nearby, fooling with a wrench. He's stayed mostly out of the way all day, though every once in a while had found himself helping out since he knew what he was doing. Ambling over to the other three, he seems thoughtful. "You say he was at the races last night?"

"Yeah."

"Mmm..."

Jed folds his arms. "What are you getting at?"

"Oh, I don't know." Eli shrugs. "He was upset about that fellow, Roth, I know."

Miles smirks. "Nobody goes up against Roth, not even the best. Besides, we didn't hear anything about any mishaps last night."

Jed sighs as he looks back to Ryan. "I wouldn't worry about it... I'm sure he's fine."


As Bree starts to talk about Gunner, JT's eyes widen slightly. "Br- ...wai- ...I-" He gives up, the whole spiel coming forth.

Gunner is sure he looks like a deer in headlights. He stares straight ahead, sinking further down into his seat. He knew his face must be beet red. There was something about what Bree said that made him feel good... she thought about him just like he thought about her. No one, that he knew of, ever felt like that before. More than friends or just friends, it didn't matter - it was a warm feeling... a feeling of being wanted. It was new... it was nice.

But in this setting, in the car with JT right there, and Bree not even realizing that Gunner could hear every word, it was less than comfortable. It was downright embarrassing, even though he really didn't know why. He sinks another inch lower.

When Bree obviously realizes that he's listening in, he cringes a little. He opens his mouth, but no sound came, and he just blinks.

JT tries his hardest not to laugh at what he found to be extremely funny. Noticing Gunner's loss for words, he takes over. "Uh, hon, I think my passenger's gonna try to jump out at the next stop, so why don't we hang up for now, and I'll see you tonight?"

Gunner knows Bree must be mortified and it wasn't fair to let her think he was too. He finally finds his voice before JT ends the call. "Don't worry, it takes a lot to kill a vampire - I'd survive a leap from a moving vehicle. But... the thought of pizza is too enticing, so I think I better stay buckled in."

JT nods his approval, trying to move on, for his niece's sake. "Good choice. So Bree, you'll pick the food up if I call it in?"


"Hmmm." Jade chuckles and turns her own head, to meet Dan's eyes. "I'm really not sure anymore... dreams seem so evasive." Searching his gaze, she can feel heat coming to her cheeks, so she turns her attention back to the sky.

"Not all that long ago, I was looking forward to finding the man of my dreams... settling down... having a 'normal' life. I forfeited something that might have brought me happiness, because I thought I had it all planned out and that's the way it had to be." She shakes her head. "But now... I guess my dream is to just be loved. Doesn't matter if I have to work as a waitress, or for a law firm, or be a stay at home mom... doesn't matter if my husband makes just enough money to get by, or makes a lot... just knowing I had someone there... that's all. I once thought the man I found would have to have a safe job so I'd never have to worry... but now I know that you can't stifle anyone's passions... and to do that would just create unhappiness. I'd rather spend ten minutes of bliss with the one I love than a lifetime knowing he was unhappy just because he was trying to please me."

Jade lets out a slightly scoffing laugh. "Yeah, that was kinda corny. I guess maybe I see my mom and... yeah, she's happy, but... I don't know... I see things that I want to do differently so I don't have the same bad experiences."

Pausing, she steals a glance back at Dan, hoping her little confession about her dream life and love didn't make him feel uncomfortable. "Of course... I always dreamed of spending a week's vacation in Hawaii too." She laughs. "Now that one might come true."


Mick's eyes go a little wide when he sees Rosetta had a gun, and he's quick to obey, getting in the house and setting his back down. "I'm sorry," he apologizes. "I left my keys here and..."

Stopping, he just look at Rosetta for the longest moment. His expression was one of defeat. "I couldn't leave like that. I know I walked away but..." He sighs deeply. "I just... I don't know. I didn't feel right, so I spent all day on the phone trying to figure out a way to have the best of both worlds, and I wound up back here."

He shrugs lamely. "I'm kinda angry that you made me feel so guilty for wanting to find my own son. But I don't want to lose you either so... if I have to stay to keep you then I guess I'll have to figure something else out."

His tone indicates that he really did feel hurt over the whole thing, and that he felt defeated in that he had to give in to Rosetta, lest he lose her. She was important enough for him to have turned around and come home. He just wished it hadn't come to that. He shrugs again, not knowing what else to say. "I'm kinda feeling alone here and I hate fighting with you. So... I guess I figured if I was at least here while trying to help with Dylan that you might be okay with that."

Conversation

Continuing her afternoon with BJ Katie had fun with her cousin. They played games, colored, enjoyed the outside air for a while came back in took a nap, and poped in a movie to watch. Katie was happy Jason didnt mind her stay a little bit longer. The time with BJ was fun and she new Rosetta just need a little alone to think.

Moving to the breakroom for just a moment Ryan had to sit. She been working nonstop since after the part and now was getting short winded. Not to mention her wrist was hurting a little to. A complain wouldnt come from her lips as she was thankful Darrel was letting her work at all before she was fully recovered.

Taking a sip from her can of Dr. Pepper Ryan can make out voices around the corner and Leo's name catches her attachen. Stoping to listen a little closer and hear what they were talking about Ryan stands a little worry over coming her.

"You guys haven't hear from Leo since last night? Even for it being Leo thats strange. Are one of you guys going to see if you can find him?"

Answering her phone Bree gives a yawn a smile spreading across her face seeing that it was her Uncle. She felt a little tired as she had kept herself up all day. Not that she wouldnt be working the overnights as Northside and was back working with the kids no more night ships and she needed to get on a normal sleeping pattern again. Though one might think it hard for Bree, it would be a peace of cake.

"Well seeing as I got my old day job with the kids back and I wont be needed at Northside anymore I have my afternoon and night free, so pizza sounds great as long as its dough only on one side. Oh and watch who you pick up for company I hear tell of a vampire on the loose."

Thinking for a long moment Bree lets out a little giggle at her own inside joke with Gunner before talking to her Uncle again.

"He's a good guy though, I like him, more than a friend I think, but I dont really know. Its the strangest feeling in my stomach. When I am away, I cant wait to see him again eather. I dont know this whole emotional thing is confusing Uncle JT but I am happy it got to be confusing with Gunner. Anyways let me get showerd and feed the pets than I will be over."

Stopping again to thinking she herd someone else in the car Bree freeze as a wave of embarrassment washes over her, relizing what her Uncle was talking about.

"Hi Gunner."

Leaning on the haybale Dan finds a fine blade of straw and picks at it. Looking at the star lit sky Dan lets out a sigh breath in the night air.

"I always wanted to touch a cloud, or just see earth from way up in space. You alwasy see pictures of what the earth looked like when I was little I thought it would be actully cool to see it with my own two eyes"

Dan felt a little sleepy tonight as chores were a little heavy than normal without Mick here. A strange feeling was in the air but no one really wanted to talk about it. So Dan left the topic alone and just played as the detraction.

Turning his head a little to look over his shoulder and see Jade Dan gave a smile .

"That was a dream of your post whats one dream you have now?"

The last few days Dan had enjoyed Jade's company and was getting use to having her near. Though something he just wanted to shy away it felt good to have someone around to chat with and get to know.

Hearing the doorbell Rosetta flips on the bedroom light. Looking at the clock it was just after eleven. Not knowing who would be there at this hour but not wanting to leave it be incase it was an emergency Rosetta reachs into the night stand taking out a hand gun. Slipping on her bathrobe Rosetta slowly walks to the front door turning the light in the kitchen on hoping the small child that had been sleeping next to her would not wake.

Flipping to pouch light on and opening the door slowly Rosetta enters a state of shock as Mick stands in the door way. Playing her gun on the counter Rosetta isnt to sure what to say, but finally she finds some kind of words.

"Are you trying to kill me with a heart attack? Get in here, and tell me what your doing!"

Rosetta's tone wasnt angry, just confused more than anything as seeing Mick home when he had jsut left this morning.

Unexpected Return

Jason grins a little.

Nah - I won't go cry in a corner or anything. Sounds like Rosetta needs you.

"Jason, can you come to my office please?"

The boss summons... gotta go. Talk to ya later.

Jason is quick to close off his emotions just halfway, signaling that he needed to pay attention to his work at the moment, and would be in touch with Katie later.


Chatter in the auto shop dies down a little, several of the men noticing the look on Ryan's face. No one needs to say it - they knew she was looking for Leo.

"So, who wants as donut?" Miles holds up the box, trying to create a distraction. The others gather around, pulling Ryan with them, while Axel, quite out of character, starts singing "Welcome back to the shop" to the tune of Happy Birthday.

Eli sticks around, not having anywhere else to go, and making sure Ryan is able to make it through the day. Darrel shows up a while later, not minding that Eli was around, and welcoming Ryan back as well.

Customers come and go and cars come in one after the other. Darrel comes in several times looking for Leo, but so far, the mechanic had not shown up. It's late afternoon, when a bit of unrest starts to rise. Over lunch, Jed had gone to drive by Leo's house, finding his car not there. But Leo wasn't answering his phone, and none of his friends seemed to know where he was either. Now several hours later, worry filled the shop, and even Darrel started growing concerned. Leo could be out of town, or with relatives or had a family emergency - but it wasn't like him not to check in. Come four o'clock, the mechanics were all looking at each other, wondering if they should be more concerned, or just let it go.

Jed and Miles are speaking quietly in one corner.

"You said he was at the races?"

"Yeah. Ticked about something."

"That the last anybody's seen him?"

"Well at least from here. He's gotta just be out of town or something."

"Could be, but... I'd hate to not do anything if it's more than that."

"You want to start calling hospitals or what?"

"I don't know, I just... I don't know."

They hush their conversation as Ryan is nearby, not wanting to lead on that they were worried about Leo.


Gunner looks left down the street, then right. He'd declined a ride, but hadn't called for one either. Finally he goes right. It would take him about an hour to walk home. But the fresh air felt good. Two more good sessions with the doctor, and he'd been released. It seemed a little odd... a little too easy, and Gunner wondered if Hope had something to do with that. He would thank her later.

For now, he had a destination in mind. At least he had his own clothes on again, back in his jeans, tee and denim jacket. Walking alongside the road, he ignored the cars, lost in his own little world until one car pulls onto the shoulder just ahead of him. Getting closer, Gunner recognizes the driver as he gets out.

JT walks to the back of the car, waiting for Gunner. "Need a lift?"

Gunner quirks an eyebrow and holds out his arms. "I might have a knife."

JT gives him a wry grin. "Yeah well... I kinda have the feeling I don't need to be scared of you."

"I just came from Northside, ya know... scary place full of scary people. There's even a rumor going around that I'm a vampire."

JT chuckles. "You know... I could say we got off on the wrong foot, but... I think it was the right foot until somebody stumbled. I know you didn't mean any harm to me, and I understand a little more now. Maybe it was right of me to turn you in - maybe not. But I'd like to start over."

Gunner stops and cocks his head. "Why?"

JT had a lot of reasons. One, he felt sorry Gunner had been through so much, and that he may have made it worse by making a big deal out of the whole incident with the hospital records. Had he known what torment the man was going through, he would have handled things differently. Two, Bree liked Gunner and she had a good head on her shoulders. She wouldn't trust someone unworthy. And three, he wanted to get to know Gunner too. After all these years, it was neat to reconnect, and he had enjoyed the night they'd all had pizza together. "We all need a few friends in the world." He shrugs. "Why as questions like "why" when we can just accept the fact that we like to help out, lend a hand, and get to know someone?"

"Bree been talking to you?"

"She's mentioned you a few times. I meant to come see you once, but I got pulled into surgery."

"Did they make it?"

"Yeah." JT smiles. "They did. Now are you gonna get in the car or not?"

Gunner thinks a moment, then shrugs. "Why not? I'll show you where my apartment is."

Once the two were in the car and on their way, JT reaches to speed dial Bree on his cell's speaker phone before getting both hands back on the wheel. He figured she might be getting up right about now. "Hey, it's me... wondering if you wanted to do supper at my place tonight? We got company."

Gunner's eyebrows raise. "Wha-"

"I'm thinking pizza."

"But I-"

"I can call it in, if you wanna pick it up on your way over."


Jade smiles as she takes the cup of coffee. "I used to hate it," she admits before taking a sip. "Then my grandma got me hooked. Mmm." She closes her eyes and breathes in the potent smell. "Nothing quite like it to awaken the senses."

She was trying really hard not to think about her dad right now. Tagging along with Dan was a nice distraction, and she enjoyed being around him more every day. Getting to know him had been fun, and they got to laugh a lot. On a day like today, she was more than willing to help with the horses, clean or pitch manure, as long as it meant keeping her mind busy.

"Alright, you da boss." She grins, downing the rest of her coffee. "Lead the way, oh, valiant cowboy."

The day at the ranch moves surprisingly fast. There's an odd feel in the air, but things function as normal. Chores are accomplished, people are taken care of, and meals are prepared and eaten in the dining hall. Everything seems to be going fine, despite the still feeling that something was amiss. By nightfall, bodies and minds are tired, ready for another night's sleep.

Out back behind the barn, Jade sits with Dan on a couple hay bales, admiring the view of stars against the foothills. Bed time was half an hour ago, but the quiet night was too nice to pass up. "When I was a little girl, I used to wonder what it would be like to look at earth from one of those stars." Jade leans back against the barn, staring at the sky. "Then I learned they were a bazillion light years away." She laughs, shaking her head. "After that, I figured maybe it might be just as nice to be in an airplane at night to see all the lights below."


It's dark. A few lights shone here and there at the ranch, but for all practical purposes, things were closed up for the night, apart from a few final conversations before bed. At the end of the driveway, it was too far away for anyone to notice the cab that had pulled to a stop and let out two figures. They walk side-by-side into the ranch, their feet crunching on the gravel. The dogs don't bark - one newcomer was someone they knew, and there was no point in alerting anybody.

The figures stop, speak for a moment, and one heads to one of the empty bunk houses. The other makes his way slowly to the main house, his duffel bag over one shoulder. Stepping up on the porch, he reaches for the doorknob, but finds it locked. Not surprising, since he was gone. Ringing the doorbell, Mick waits. His shoulders were dropped, his eyes half-closed and tired. But he was here... and he would have to take things as they came.

Toung

Rolling over in the bed Rosetta closes her eyes trying to stop the tears. She wanted a little more sleep before she woke in an hour and started her own work day doing a little more than normal than Mick was gone. She could almost guess sleep would not come, not now but it was worth a shot and gave her time to get herself together.

Looking up with a smile on his face as Jade entered the barn Dan was exspecting her. Holding out a mug of coffee her smiles.

"I am not sure if you like coffee or not, but I figured you would need something this early in the morning."

Taking a sip of his own and letting the warm liqued slid down his throat on the chilly morning it felt nice and it warmed him inside out. Scanning the barn Dan trys to decied where to start.

"Well, I have to let the horses out in the pasture if you want to help me with that. By than everyone else should be up and we can get down to the nitty gritty."

Pouring a bowl of cearl for BJ Katie gives a smile as the warm feelings from Jason wash over her. Setting the bowl down in front of her cousin she was watching him for the afternoon as Rosetta needed a little alone time to work and clear her head. Katie couldnt help but feel bad for her aunt.

Well Hello there your into work early. Than again you always were the early bird. Yeah I guess Dylan is missing and Mick is going to try and find him.

Sitting down across from BJ KAtie smiles at him stick out her toung only to have him return the toung stuck out. Giving a laugh and shaking her head she leans back in the chair.

Rosetta was pretty upset this morning, I found her crying in the kitchen though she tried to deny it, but I know better than that. She could really use my help right now with BJ and what not. She is under alot of stuff and not having to worry about him might help her a little. I know you miss me, I miss you more than anything as well but would you mind horrible if I stay another night or two?

Giving a little jump and reaching for Eli Ryan couldn't help being startled not quite knowing what was going on. Feeling silly when she see who it is and this part was for her Ryan's face turns into a big bright smile. Along with this surprise of new friends came a memorie of a birthday party she dad had throw her in her own auto shop. The memorie only made her smile bigger. Looking at her brother and raising an eyesbrow she comments to her brother.

"I...guess they did."

Hearing the new voice behind her Ryan gives a jump again but dosnt show it that much this time. Spinning around and seeing Axel Ryan's eyes sparkle.

"Axel...glad you could make it."

Giving a laugh as the banter went back and forth her being the middle of it all Ryan's laughs so hard a few times she has to hold her side and catch her breath still not one hundred percent, but it felt good to be out, home and laugh with friends.

"You know Axel sometime we are going to have to have a contest to see who can fix more cars or something than finally put to rest that your better than me."

As the laughing and jokes continue, the introductions of Eli go around Ryan's attachen is diverted as she looks around the group for the one person she had missed the most and wanted to see. Not seeing Leo, and seeing his work station empty Ryan cant help the look of disapointment that cross her face.

One missing

Hearing the quiver in Rosetta's voice tore Mick's heart in two. It was bad enough everything was going wrong - why did his own decisions have to hurt people too?

He gives her shoulder a squeeze and leans down to plant a kiss on her forehead. Then standing again, he grabs his bag and leaves.

Once he's outside, he leaves his bag and heads for the barn, just as some of the hands are getting started. He's surprised to see Jade up so early.

She stops and looks at him, then over to where he'd set down his bag, then back again. "You're... going somewhere?" She hadn't spoken with him since seeing him drunk the other night, and now there was a fear that he was leaving for good, or that Rosetta was sending him away.

"I'm going to help look for Dylan." Mick searches her face, seeing the apprehension. "I'm sorry about the other night. You doing okay?"

Jade nods. There was tension between father and daughter, but the love was still there. "Yeah. Yeah, I'm okay. I was just getting up early to help Da... help with chores."

Mick quirks an eyebrow at her choice of words. But this morning, he didn't have time to tell her not to get involved with Dan. "I should be back in a couple days or so." There was so much going unsaid. So much he should say about how he loved her and how he cared she was here, and that everything would be okay. That he would find her brother, and that he had been wrong to drink the other day. But how could he say all of that in a minute's time? "If you need anything... you call my phone, alright?"

"Okay." Jade nods again. "Um... Dad?" She bites her lip. "There is one thing..." She felt like a little girl again, asking for something she knew she wouldn't get. "See, when I left home, I wasn't getting along with Mom so great, and Grandma was-"

Mick's phone rings, interrupting them as he answers it. "Yeah? Okay. Thanks, Reese. Taxi's taking me, so I should be there soon. Tell him to wait for me. Great. Thanks." Ending the call, he looks to Jade again. "I gotta get to the airport where the Elite jet is waiting. I'll see you soon." Giving her a quick hug, he turns to catch Sparky before he left.

Jade sighs as Mick walks from her. "...pushing me so I was wondering if I could come live here." But there was no one around to hear the rest of her request. Maybe now was a bad time to ask anyway. "Be careful." Trying to shrug off both her disappointment and worry for her dad going to join the Elite in the search, she goes into the barn, looking for Dan and ways she could help with chores.

"Sparky?

He looks up from where he was cutting open a bale of hay. "Mick. Good morning."

Mick took note of his brother's less-than-warm tone. He also noticed the slowly healing split lip. "Um..." He should have seen him yesterday instead of waiting. "Look, I'm sorry about the other night. I, um... well, thanks for bringing me home. I deserved worse."

Sparky shrugs and keeps on working. "What are brothers for? You back in business today?"

"I'm heading to Nevada."

Sparky's eyes snap back to Mick. "What?"

"I think it's the Agency that's got Dylan... and I'm going to help find him. I've already been in touch with Reese and there's an Elite jet free to take me today."

Sparky feels an odd churn in his gut. Mick had just run off, got drunk, and now he wasn't even giving himself or his family time to recover before heading off to Nevada. "You... sure that's such a good idea?"

"He's my son," Mick defends. "I'm not gonna just stand back and watch. I came to ask if you'd keep a close eye on Rosetta and BJ for me."

Sparky immediately nods. "You know I will. Rosetta okay with you going back out in the field like that?"

"There's no discussion about it," Mick states flatly. "This is something I need to do."

Sparky lifts his eyebrows slightly. He knew his brother and sister-in-law too well not to know that there was tension there. And no wonder. Rosetta's husband had just come home drunk, now was leaving with the risk of death. There was more than one problem here. Sparky decides to be bold. "You gonna be alright with your drinking problem, going off by yourself?"

Mick is quiet for several moments. He didn't know the answer to that. He wanted to say he didn't have a problem, but deep down, he knew that wasn't true. "I'll be fine. I slipped up once... it won't happen again." He gives Sparky's shoulder a firm pat. "Thanks for watching things for me. I'll be back soon."

It wasn't long before the ranch was up in full-swing, another morning busy with chores. There was a strange quietness though. Someone was missing... without Mick, there was just a piece missing that gave a feeling of unrest to the whole ranch. Miles away, the taxi was pulling up to the airport, and Mick was getting out to find the Elite jet.


Jason sinks down in his chair at work, turning on his computer. He was in a little earlier than normal this morning, but waking up at four and not being able to get back to sleep was the reason.

Trooper turns several circles and flops down by the desk with a little groan, as if he thought it was too early to be in the office.

Jason flips through some new notes, noticing one that Reese had just put on his desk this morning - apparently he'd been in early too. The message was a little surprising. Stopping a moment, he searches his feelings to determine Katie was at least awake before talking with her.

Hey, Beautiful. I just got a note from Reese that Mick's coming. Dylan's missing? Do you know anything?


The shop remains quiet for another moment before all the lights are flipped on at once.

"Welcome back, Ryan!!!" All the guys are smiling from ear to ear, under their makeshift decorations - some of which already have a few spots of oil and grease. Any party planner would gag at the sight, but for the auto shop, it proved how much they loved having Ryan around.

Eli's eyes widen. "Looks like... they missed you."

Jed laughs and ushers Ryan further inside. "Did we ever. It's been too quiet around here."

"You mean we've had too much work on our own," Miles teases. He gives Ryan a warm smile. "Darrel approved, so we have some donuts to celebrate."

Jed grins. "And we'd have them even if Darrel didn't approve."

"Did I miss the party?"

Heads swing around to see Axel slipping in the back door. "Axel!" Ron waves. "I didn't think you were gonna come."

Axel shrugs, tossing Ryan a wink. "Yeah well, I haven't given up my job yet, and I certainly didn't stop being friends with one of the best mechanics in town."

"One of the best," smirks Jed. "Listen to him. He's afraid Ryan's got him beat."

Laughter ensues as Eli is introduced to the guys around the shop, and jokes are tossed around. It was a funny sort of gathering... but it was almost like a family... something no one would ever guess existed unless being a part of it themselves. There was only one person missing.

Home

Feeling Mick sit down next to her Rosetta can only hope Mick will say he is staying. But as his words come her hope did not come true and the sting behind her eyes continues.

"You could stay that would be a big help, but we both know you wont. Other than that, no there is nothing that you need to do."

Rosetta tryed not to let her voice quiver and show she had and was crying but the more she tryed not to the worse it was. She just wanted Mick to stay and take care of his family. She wanted to feel his warmth with her. Taking in a long sniff Rosetta didnt know what else to say to the man she could always count on and loved.

Her wrist still in a cast Ryan looks at the shop from the outside. It had felt like so long since she had been here it felt so strange to be back. Looking over at her brother she gave a smile a think you for driving her. She could work a little but driving at the moment was to much. Maybe in another week or so she could.

"Come on, let me introduce you to everyone."

Getting out of the car and waiting for her brother Ryan was happy he was with her. She felt nervous not even sure why but she did. At the some time she was happy to be able to show off her brother to everyone around the shop.

Entering in the door Ryan can't see much beyond the front desk and it almost looks like the shop is empty. Giving a question look to her brother Ryan steps forward and around the front counter.

"Helloooo...? I'm home!"

Balloons

Gunner's eyes glance down at Bree's hand, only now aware of his nervous leg again. What did he do to make her feel good? It really didn't make that much sense to him.

Seeing her stand and hearing her suggestion to go back inside, he knew she was right, even though he didn't want her to be. Grudgingly, he stands as well, helping pick up their things.

"I think time is always flying... it's only when we're having fun that we simply wish it were slower." Gunner gives a little sigh and ambles towards the door. Opening it, he motions Bree inside. "After you, melady."

It doesn't take long to be back in their own places, once again making it back unseen. As Gunner lies on his bed a while later, sleep doesn't come too easily. He just wanted to relive the evening so he could keep those good feelings rather than trying to avoid any lurking nightmares.


Mick packs the rest of his things, then changes his clothes for the day. Only when he sits on the edge of the bed to pull on his boots does he know that he's perhaps woken Rosetta. It takes him a moment to stand... he has an odd churning in his stomach that didn't have anything to do with his want for a drink.

Sighing deeply, he finally stands up, then goes to Rosetta's side of the bed, easing down beside her and laying a hand on her shoulder. "Hey," he mentions softly. "I'm gonna leave in about an hour." It was too dark yet to see her face, but he wished he could. "Anything you want me to do before I go?" It seemed a silly question, but it was the closest thing to an apology as he could get, when he was still leaving despite her desire to have him stay.


"No, up... up a little higher." Jed motions for Ron to move the banner just a little higher. "A little to the left... no, right."

"Would you make up your mind?!" Ron is swaying precariously on top of the ladder, while Miles is supposed to be holding it steady, but has become preoccupied with trying to blow up a balloon.

Jed finally nods. "Okay. Right there."

The homemade banner at the back of the shop read: Welcome back, Ryan!

"Perfect!" Jed gives Ron a thumbs up. "Now all we need is the food. Miles?"

The balloon goes squealing across the room as Miles was distracted and let go. "Huh?"

"Donuts! Did you get the donuts?"

"Oh yeah, yeah." Miles thumbs out to his beat up car. "Out there. You sure Ryan's coming in today?"

"That's what Darrel said."

"Where's Leo?"

Jed looks around and shrugs. "Who knows? He's on the schedule today, but I haven't seen him yet. He didn't answer his phone when I called him either. Maybe he doesn't want to be here when Ryan gets here. "

Miles smirks. "Yeah, probably. He was at the races last night. Crappy mood."

"Well, Darrel's gonna have his hide if he doesn't show up."

"No kidding - with the load we got in today, we all know better than to call in. Leo hasn't called, has he?"

Jed shakes his head. "I just told you he didn't answer when I called him earlier - I was gonna ask him to pick up some pop. I checked the machine though just in case, but there's no messages."

"Aw, he'll be in." Miles shrugs it off. "Now would somebody please help me with those silly balloons? Ryan will be here any minute."