FUN!

*Wes smiles and holds out his arm to Cindy escorting her to the car.*

*Wendy blushes slightly.* "Thank you, oh great defender. You look pritty sharp yourself."

*Angel smiles up at Luke.* " I dont care how your dressed. As long as your with me. To me you look good in anything." *Angel leans into Luke's arms.*

*Rosetta smiles and takes Mick's hand admiring him.* "You look very handsome tonight." *Rosetta's eyes sparkle.*

*As Jason walks in Katie see him. He did indeed look handsome tonight. She is going to go up to him but Jade walks to him first. Katie lets out a sigh and heads out to the car riding with Rosetta and Mick. All the way there she is very quiet.*

*After arriving everyone goes there sepreat ways. Music blasts, people laugh, dance. There is food, balloons, contests and much more. The time seems to fly as the night goes on befor anyone knows it a few hours go by. Katie keeps to herself on one side of the room. Watching everyone have a fun time she lets out a long sigh.*

*Damien and Annie finally arrive to the social. And move right into dancing.*

*As alittle more time goes by Katie looks across the room and see Con standing aganst the wall alone. Geting tired of stading there herself alone Katie walks over to Con and smiles.* "Hey Con, Want to dance?" *Katie points to the dance floor than looks back at Con seeing the look in his eyes.* "As friend silly. Come on lets have some fun to."

*Rosetta laugh after laugh as her and Mick along with the other talk, and dance a little bit. Leaning in so Mick can hear her over the music better she says.* "This sure does remind me of old times. Remember the dance we had at the W/K Ranch?"

*Wendy dances with Clint enjoying the music, and his arms around her. She feel ontop of the world. After the song ends Wendy motions to the tabe asking to sit for a bit.*

*Wes leans over to Cindy.* "Would you anything to drink or eat?"

The Social

Cindy blushes at Wes, and accepts the corsage just a bit awkwardly. She looks up at him with an almost giddy smile. It’s been so long since she’s done something like this. “Thank you.”

Clint lets out a low whistle as Wendy enters the mess hall. Rosalynn gives his arm a backhanded slap and rolls her eyes, but he just smirks at her, and goes to Wendy with a wide smile. “Good evening, princess.” He bows and takes her hand to plant a kiss on it. “You look lovely.”

Luke grins at Angel, putting an arm around her waist. “Yep…I’m glad we can keep doing this kind of thing once in a while so we don’t get burned out.” He glances down at her, admiration showing in his eyes. “I don’t think I’m dressed up enough to go with a pretty lady like you.”

Mick comes in the opposite door just as Rosetta enters the mess hall. He sees her across the room, and can’t help the smile that makes its way to his face. He just stands for a moment and cocks his head, engraving that picture in his mind. There was no doubt – he had the prettiest date tonight and was proud of it.
He goes across the room to Rosetta, taking off his hat, and offering her his smile, his eyes sparkling. “Shall we?” He holds out his hand.

Jason limps into the mess hall and lets the door shut behind him. He looks around the room to see who all is there, taking note of those who appear not to be going and those that do.

Jade looks up from her seat and for a moment just watches Jason. If he didn’t make others stop and stare, no one would, that was for sure. Finally she gets up and goes to him, flashing him a smile. “Hey, handsome.”

He grins. “You don’t look so bad yourself.”

“Wow, that’s a great compliment.”

Jason holds his grin, mischief twinkling in his eyes. “You look great and don’t let anyone tell you otherwise.”

Jade’s cheeks turn crimson, but she remains composed. She nods to his cane. “Decided to go in style, did we?”

Jason rolls his eyes. “I feel like an old man.”

“I think it makes you look distinguished.” Jade takes his free hand in hers. “Sparky and Mel said we could ride with them.”

“Great.” Jason’s just ready to turn to go back outside when he notices Katie across the room. He almost does a double-take, and blinks, his eyebrows rising. He just about catches her eye, but is distracted by Jade opening the door, and shifts his focus back to leaving. He can’t help throwing a glance over his shoulder though, wondering if Katie has found someone to go with or not.


Within minutes, everyone is piling into vehicles and they’re on their way. Eric, Jeff and Rosalynn stay back at the ranch, throwing in a movie and popping popcorn. Austin has opted to go back to the lookout early, while Con dresses up a bit nice to go along with the gang in order to keep an eye on things.

It’s not long until the small caravan of vehicles is pulling into the parking lot in town behind the large building. Already there are many cars there, and music and laugher can be heard inside.

Ready

*Time comes, days go. Katie and Jason patched the akwardness but still drift slightly apart as Jason spends more time with Jade. Katies heart acks as she see them both together but trys to maintain her composure.*

*Finally the day of the Social is here. Everyone is busy running around.*

*Katie puts the last ceurl in her hair. What a pain it was. It had goten so long and its not often she wore it down. Runing her hand down her knee langth black dress she gets the wrinkles out. Checking her makup one last time. Becky had been nice enough to help her put it on. Katie sighs as she heads out of the bathroom. Why was she doing this. She never dressed up. and why was she feeling nervouse. Its not like she had anyone to go with. Leting out a long sigh she exits her bunk and heads to the mess hall.*

*Wes enters the mess hall his hands behind his back. He has on his Black dress coat on with a white rose pined to it. He has his black dress pants, cowboy hat, and black cowboy boots on. Walking over to Cindy he gives a small bow. Taking his hands from behind his back he holds out a corsash for Cindy's wrist.* "Mi Lady." *Gently Wes takes it out of the box and puts it around Cindy's wrist beaming.*

*Rosetta looks in the mirror one last time than look at the clock on her dresser relizing she was late. Sliping on her high heel shoes she grabs her black lace shall to go over her black and bloodred spagetti strap ball dress. Walking very carfuly but trying to hurry across the lawn Rosetta wobbles alittle not use to heals. Finally she enters and looks around for Mick*

*Wendy is the next to enter in her long Snow white dress with a black ribbon the goes around the wast and down the back. Her hair has a black ribbon holding it back and small white flowers line her hair. As she enters she looks at Clint and beams walksing over to him.*

*Angel enters the mess hall through the back door her baby blue dress on and her hair pulled up. Walking up next to Luke she looks around the room at everyone, and her eyes on the kids.* "How they remind me of us at there age."

Getting ready

Jason smiles and gestures with his head to the mess hall. “Alright. Come on.”

The day progresses slowly and the tension in the air begins to dissolve on its own. No more arguments ensue, helping with the situation, though Jason and Austin do not converse.

Time rolls on. Research continues, but no headway is made. Some are discouraged, though there is reassurance in the fact that the Agency is lying dormant for the time being.

Jason takes several trips back and forth to the hospital for therapy, Clint continues to help Wes, and routines proceed as normal.

Austin and Jason avoid discussion about the recent episode, both drifting further apart, but neither feeling strong enough one way or the other to do anything about it.

The weeks come and go, those who go to church, continued to be encouraged that there will be an end to this trial. Work persists, and weather begins to warm slightly. Jade and Jason do more together, winding up together on several picnics and an outing to town.

Before anyone knows it, the day for the winter social has arrived, and spirits are lifted in anticipation of a fun evening. Deciding to gather in the mess hall to figure out who’s riding with who before they leave, everyone who’s going disperses to get ready.

By five o’clock, several are already ready to go and waiting in the mess hall. Cindy stands near the kitchen and smoothes out her simple blue dress with long skirt, feeling strangely nervous for some reason. Clint hangs around one of the tables as Rosalynn points out things he should straighten or change, giving him a bad time.

Jade sits near the door, her green dress accenting her features, her hair pulled back with strands loose around her face.

Jason gives himself one last look in the mirror and turns to head for the door. Thinking for a moment, he passes by his crutches and takes the cane instead that JT has suggested he use. Easier on the arms, and helping him use his knee a little more, at least it wouldn’t be as much of a pain as crutches. With his collard shirt tucked into his black jeans, his good boots and his hair gelled just so, he figures he can’t be any more ready than this, and he heads for the mess hall.

Mick tucks in his shirt and buckles his belt, grabbing his cowboy hat. All in black, he heads out the door. It’s been a long time since he’s looked forward to something like this, and he anticipates a fun night with everyone…and Rosetta.

Sure

*Wendy throws her hands up to look like guns and clicks her toung.* "I'm looking forwork to it."

*Katie nods at Jason and smiles understanding what he is saying.* "Ya, I'd like that. Let me grab my laptop." *Katie goes back inside and gets her packpack and laptop.* "Ok I am set."

Invite

Clint rolls his eyes at Wendy. “Very funny.” He nods at Wes. “Yeah, I’m right behind you.” He glances back at Wendy, throwing her a smirk. “And I’ll catch YOU later.”

Jason takes a deep breath as he hears Katie approach the door, and he adopts a casual stance. When she opens the door, his jaw tightens as the tension immediately rears its head again. But he manages to look her in the eye, conveying that he’s willing to get past this hitch in the road. No matter the awkwardness, or how hard it was, Rosetta was right. If he and Katie truly were friends, then this was just something they'd have to deal with. “Hey. I got some files I was going over a while back, and a second pair of eyes is always helpful. Thought maybe you’d want to go over them with me.” His invitation comes across as nothing more than a friendly gesture, though is extended in the form of a truce.

Unexspected

*Wendy giggles at Clint.* "First day on your new feet. Might want my mom to look at that before it gets to bad." *Wendy pokes Clint in the ribs.*

*Wes stands and smiles as Cindy and Jason talk. Making his way into the kitchen he smiles at the 2 kids.* "Hey Killer, dont let the girl make you look bad." *Wes laughs* "I'm gonna be in the garage. Just come in when ever. Its not to busy of a day." *Wes smiles again shaking his head droping his glass into the sink.*

*Katie almost falls back in her chair as there is a knock on the door startling her. She wasent exspecting anyone to come. Geting up with a big cladder she goes to the door and looks out the window. Seeing is is Jason she rests her forhead on the door. After a long moment she opens the door trying to giving a small smile.* "Hey!"

Attempt

Clint is knocked off balance and hits the doorway with his already-sore shoulder. “Ah!” He smirks at Wendy, reaching out to give her hair a teasing pull. “Good morning to you too.” He offers a teasing grin.


Jason looks at Rosetta thoughtfully as she leaves. She’s said some very encouraging things that he wanted to take to heart… People didn’t normally talk to him like that, and it really made him stop and think.

Cindy sees Rosetta talking with Jason, then when she leaves, she feels prompted to go talk to her son. They needed to clear the air one way or the other, no matter how awkward it was. She gives Wes a glance, then rises from her chair to go to Jason.

Jason looks up as his mother approaches and he sighs deeply, giving her a glance of apology as she sits down across from him. “Morning.”

Cindy forces a smile. “Good morning…” She cocks her head, and just studies Jason for several moments. “I’m sorry, Jason…”

“No,” he cuts her off. “You have nothing to be sorry for. I should have made you worry like I did. It was my fault.”

Cindy shakes her head. “You did what you thought was right, and for that, I’m proud of you. Yes, I was worried to death, and I don’t like experiencing that, but…what happened happened, and we just need to move on.”

Jason opens his mouth to argue more, but shuts it, knowing his mother is trying to get past the whole thing. He offers a grin. “Okay.”

She reaches over to give his hand a loving squeeze. “I’m going to go get some breakfast.”

“Alright. I’ll get something later.” Once again, Jason is by himself. He can see Austin out of the corner of his eye, but doesn’t feel much like approaching him yet. It was one thing talking to his mom and Rosetta…it was entirely different confronting his grandfather, who surely wasn’t as forgiving as the others.

“Hey you.” Jade smiles and plops down beside Jason, offering him a glass of orange juice. “Thought you might be able to use this.”

Glad for the change in pace and a reason to quit thinking about the heavier topics, Jason grins at Jade. “Thanks.”

“You’re welcome.” Jade’s smile remains as she looks at him. “I hope things are alright.” She scrunches up her nose. “Guess everyone got a little stirred up around here, huh.”

“You could say that.” Jason chuckles. “Sorry you had to witness all of that.”

“Eh…” Jade shrugs. “I’ve got a family too, ya know. Life isn’t perfect, and if someone thinks it is, they haven’t lived.” She pauses, glancing down. “How’s the leg?”

“Fair.” Jason takes a swig of orange juice. “Just gonna take a while to heal I guess.”

“Do you have to go to therapy?”

“I was supposed to go two days ago,” Jason admits. “I’ll have to reschedule. But yes, I should be just a few times. Most what I have to do though, I can do myself. It’s just gonna take time to see how much mobility I regain.”

Jade cocks her head, feeling a bit sorry for him. “I’m sure it’ll heal out alright.”

Jason appreciates the encouragement, and can’t help his grin as he takes another sip of juice. “We’ll see. I won’t be in much dancing shape for this social coming up though.”

Jade giggles, giving his arm a kidding pat. “I don’t care. I’ve got two left feet anyway.”

Jason chuckles. “Then I guess we make the perfect couple, don’t we?”

A slight blush comes to Jade’s cheeks and she laughs. “Maybe we do.” She sighs and looks to the kitchen. “Well, I promised Becky I’d help with dishes. I’ll catch you later.”

“Yeah…” Jason watches her leave, and polishes off his orange juice with a couple pain killers. Thinking several minutes in quiet, he looks towards the tables that are set up with computers, and spies a file folder with records he’d been going through. Making up his mind, he rises, deciding to avoid Austin for now. He’d rather straighten out another mess first before tackling that one.

Leaving the mess hall, he swings his way towards Katie’s bunk, rolling his eyes at himself, and just hoping he doesn’t make things worse. But he’s got to do something before the tension kills somebody. He arrives at her door and knocks.

the letter

*Rosetta smiles at Jason.* "Never regret doing something you think it right. More often than not it is the right path. Your a good guy Jason." *Rosetta pats his shoulder and walks out of the mess hall to get changed and do some work.*

*Katie slowly walks to her bunk. Grabing some new clothing she hops in the shower. After geting out she comes out of the bathroom and sits down in her chair. Opening her laptop she starts to fiddle around not wanting to go back to the mess hall yet. As she surfs the web her mind wanders to her father email. Maybe it was time to reply. Opening her email up she write a short letter not sure what to say:*

Dear Jay,
I got your email and I dont really know how to reply to you. You have missed so many years of my life I am not that little girl anymore. Maybe someday you can get to know me again. I forgive you.

Katie

*As Katie finish the email she shuts her laptop and leans back in her chair. Her mind a million miles away.*

*Wendy see Clint enter and runs into kitchen hip bumping him.* "Good Morning."

Apology Accepted

Mick chuckles and manages to get himself up off the couch to stretch again. “If a crick in the neck is the worst thing, then I’m doing alright.” He gives Rosetta’s shoulder a light pat. “I gotta go clean up and change clothes. I’ll be back for breakfast.”

Cindy accepts Wes’ hug, mustering up as much of a smile as she can. She looks down at her coffee, just letting Wes arm remain around her.

Clint finally makes it to the mess hall, and aims for the kitchen, rubbing his shoulder gingerly.



Jason stares at Katie, unsure how to react, or what to say, if anything. He opens his mouth to rebuke her apology – she had done nothing wrong. But she keeps talking, so he remains silent.
Her words stung just a little for some reason…they had an impact he hadn’t expected. What did Katie really want? Did their friendship really mean that much to her too? She was obviously willing to face him, apologize whether she needed to or not, and risk rejection in order to salvage what they had. That couldn’t go ignored. But what should he do? Should he just forget about what had happened, for her sake? Or did he need to say something too?

Katie doesn’t give him a chance to do either though as she walks away. He just sits for a moment, feeling a new sensation…no one had ever said they’d be proud to call him their friend before… He glances over his shoulder as Katie leaves, wondering if they really can get past this bump in the road.

Rosetta’s hand on his shoulder startles him and he turns around quickly to look up at her. Her words were the last thing he expected to hear, and he knows the look on his face must show some surprise.
As Rosetta continues to speak, he furrows his brow a little, trying to understand the implications of what was being said. Had he really had such an impact on Katie? Was that a good thing or a bad thing? Rosetta implied it was good. But was it his own fault that he and Katie had gotten to this point now? Should he have held back sooner so things didn’t get this far? Apparently Rosetta viewed Katie’s change as positive, not negative. He hadn’t ever thought he could affect anyone…he’d always just been a loner….

When Rosetta concludes with her own apology, Jason shoves aside the thoughts of Katie for the moment. He purses his lips in thought, giving a slight nod. “The situation probably could have been handled better, and I chose a route that stirred things up royally – for that I’m the one who should apologize. I realize now you were worried sick, and that wasn’t right of me to put you in that position.” He shrugs. “I’m glad I left…and I’m glad Katie was with me. If I could do it all over again, I don’t know if I’d do it differently or not, but I’m sorry what I did caused people to worry.”

Sorry's

*Rosetta sits up and smiles trying to fix her hair but it wont work unless a brush it taken to it.* "Well I guess thats a good think to know in case we ever get lost out in the cold." *Rosetta grins at Mick.* "Good morning sleepy head. Sorry about the neck. I guess I was more tired than I first thought to not have woke till this morning." *Rosettas mind is foggy for a bit but than relives the events from yesterday evening.*

*Wes makes his way to the mess hall. Seeing Cindy siting alone he walks twords her and sits like his has found himself doing so much latly. Reaching over Wes gives Cindy a hug without saying anything. No words are needed as he can tell how Cindy feels. Hope remained in Wes' heart that today everyone could patch things up and go on with things.*

*Katie lifts her head as Jason enters the room. Quickly she looks at him but than looks away. Katie replys everything in her mind that happend the night before. Why had she kissed Jason. She was more of a clear thinker than that. Did she want to be more than friend with Jason, yes. That answer was simple, but she dident want to jeprodize there friendship and she did just that. Would there friendship ever be the same or did the action she took lastnight change thins permintly. Katie hoped in her heart of hearts this wouldent change now, but if they did she dident blame Jason. Take the last sip of her coffee she stands and takes her mug to the kitchen puting it into the sink. Sighing she decieds she probley should go take a shower and get dressed. Slowly she walks out of the kitchen heading for the door. Stoping she gives a quick glance over to Jason's way and decieds its probley best to say something to him. Walking over she pulls a chair out and sits down. Still keeping her eyes down on the table.* "Jason, I just wanted to say I'm sorry. I shouldent have kissed you lastnight. It was wrong of me and I hope you can forgive me and I hope this dosent change anything." *Katie looks up and searches Jason's eyes for answers.* " Our friendship means so much to me, and I dont want to lose it. I thank you foreverything and dont take blame for anything. Your a great person and dont you ever let anyone tell you any differnt. I am so proude to call you my friend." *Katie gives a small smile and stands again.* " I guess I should go take a shower now and start my day. I'll catch you alittle later." *Katie makes her way out of the mess hall and to her bunk.*

*Rosetta watches Katie leave the mess hall. Turning to Mick she nods and smiles signaling she will be right back. Geting up and walking over to Jason, Rosetta places a hand on his shoulder and looks twords the closeing door.* " You really make her happy and feel good you know that. She values your friendship more than anything and would do anything for you as a friend. Thats what true friend are. They stick together through anything and are always there just a call away. One of the trates of making a true friendship is being able to endure though anything. The strange, happy, sad, awakward, and upseting times. " *Rosetta finally looks down at Jason.* " I havent seen her smile so much in a long time. Its good to see her happy, and its nice to know she has a friend who would do anything for her. Thank you Jason. For being Katie's hope, that there are still good people out there. I'm also sorry I dident trust you more. You guys are adults now, and need to make your own desitions. I guess I was just so worryed I forgot that. So again I am sorry."

Feelings

Jeff clangs around in the kitchen, as one of the first ones up, and hungry for pancakes. Becky and Mel soon join him to help out, deciding a nice breakfast for everyone would be good, especially after the prior evening’s tension.

Clint’s alarm goes off, wailing in his ear. Having been in a deep sleep, he reacts with a jolt, whipping his weight to the side to get within reach of his clock. With eyes barely open, the distance to the edge of the bed wasn’t even calculated, and in the next second, his shoulder is slamming into the nightstand, and he’s in a heap on the floor. Blinking, he groans at himself and scoots up into a sitting position to rub the sleep from his eyes. His covers had been pulled down with him, and he’d knocked the lamp off his nightstand as he’d hit. What a great way to start of the day.
He rises, throwing his bed not even close to back together again, and stumbles to the shower. “First chairs now my own bed,” he grumbles, though is glad there was no witness to this one.

A pan is dropped with a clatter in the kitchen, and Mick finally opens his eyes. Taking a moment to get his bearings, he lifts his head and winces at his sore neck. He yawns and starts to stretch before remembering that he’s not alone. Sensing Rosetta is awake as well, a wry grin spreads across his face and he playfully roughs up Rosetta’s hair. “You make a pretty good hot brick, ya know that?”

Austin and Con enter the mess hall together as usual, taking up their now-regular seats at the near table. Austin glances around, not seeing Jason yet. He’d thought a lot last night…and though still disagreeing with Jason, his temper had cooled. A hope had risen in him that they would be able to work things out today, and perhaps a little bit of guilt lingered for things said the evening before.

Cindy takes a chair down by the fireplace, chilled by the crisp morning. The dark circles under her eyes prove that she’d gained little sleep, but her feeling of helplessness for the situation remains.



Jason sits on the edge of his bed, showered and fully dressed. A deep sigh makes its way to the surface. Couldn’t there ever be just one thing to deal with instead of a zillion at the same time? Pictures of the night before continue to flash in his mind. Austin…Rosetta…his mother…Katie… He shakes his head at himself, feeling at fault for more things than one. Though fighting it, his mind takes him back to Katie’s bunk. He should have known better…he shouldn’t have allowed Katie to kiss him like she had. A voice deep down reminds him that there was a reason he hadn’t exactly resisted her affection.

He rolls his eyes and stands, going for his crutches. It was just a bad idea to get involved like that. Katie liked him too much, and she’d soon realize that it had just been a fleeting lapse in judgment when she let her emotions get the best of her. Her feelings for him would not last, and because of that, he should not encourage her. He needed to be more careful, no matter how hard it was. Yet he also knew that it required a delicate hand - otherwise he’d be jeopardizing their friendship, and he had to admit to himself that it was one thing he didn’t want to lose. Katie was the first real friend he'd ever had, and he recognized her loyalty. But how could he maintain that friendship if he turned her away from him?

Hobbling to the door, Jason’s eye catches the papers from Carter, sitting on the table. A knot forms in his stomach. He was supposed to talk to Katie about it. But it would just make things worse at this point, wouldn't it? It would just complicate things even more. He couldn’t bring it up now...

Slowly he makes his way to the mess hall, dreading any confrontations, though knowing that it’s necessary to get this day over with. Upon entering, his eyes sweep the room. He sees his mother…Con…Austin…. Katie. His stomach lurches, and for the first time, he can't meet her eye. Instead, he grabs a seat at an empty table, not even sure how to proceed, or what will happen next. It's all wrong...how could things have fallen apart like this? Who would be the first to make a move? He had two completely different issues being shoved down his throat, and he was choking on both. Where were the answers he needed?

Morning again!

*Wendy nods to Clint.* "Ok...I'll keep these chairs in line till I head off to bed." *Wendy smiles and gives Clint a hug goodnight. After a few more hours look at stuff on the computer Wendy heads to bed herself.*

*Wes walks with Cindy to her bunk than makes his way to his own.*

*After Jason leave Katie stands in the dark for a long while. Mumbaling to herself.* "Well that was stupid of me." *Katie rolls her eyes to herself and than glances at her flowers. No matter how awkword it was Katie cant help but smile. Changing into her pj's Katie hops into bed. For a long while she just stairs up at the cealing. Finally falling asleep.*

*As Night drifts on its quiet at the ranch. Finally morning comes to chanse away the shadows. As the sun comes up its a golden color with hints of purple. The birds start to chirp.*

*As Katie opens her eyes she can tell its morning all ready. Geting out of bed she rubs her eyes groggly. Throwing on a pair of sweat pants she heads out to the mess hall searching for coffee before doing anything alse for the day. As the crisp air hits her face, she rememebd the events of lastnight and the kiss. Without relizing it she is smiling again. Yet a new form of tention forms at going to have to see Jason again.*

*One by one the others in the ranch wake and make there way to the mess hall as they have so many other times in the past. This was now there normal rutean.*

*Rosetta eyes flutter open and for a moment wonders where she is. Than looking up she see Mick sleeping. Had they fallen asleep there last night on the coutch and not even relized it. Poor mick was going to have a crick in his next from sleeping up all night. Smiling Rosetta dosent move not wanting to wake Mick and enjoying his arms around her.*

Reaction

Mick shifts his weight slightly to lean back in the couch more comfortably, and lets Rosetta sleep. His own eyes grow heavy, and before he knows it, he’s dozed off, his arm still around her.

Clint beams at Wendy, assuming a silly grin. “If I had more hours in a day, I’d wear myself out fighting chairs. At least right now I get a break after a while.” He laughs and looks at the clock. “I think I hear my bed calling…”


Cindy forces a small smile and wipes her eyes with the back of her hand. “Thank you, Wes. You’re right…I just need to let things go for now. I should probably try to get some sleep. It’s late…”



As Katie leans closer to him, Jason can feel his pulse quicken, and for a moment he doesn’t even hear what she is saying. Feeling her lips meet his, he’s taken so off guard that he can’t even react. His eyes widen slightly, and he’s glad for the darkness as Katie steps back, knowing that his face has grown hot. He swallows hard, and the silence becomes more and more awkward, but no words that cross his mind seem to be the right ones. He shifts his weight uncomfortably, and finally clears his throat. “Um…good night, Katie.” He can sense her embarrassment, and he keeps his voice clear of reprimand. “I’ll see you in the morning…” He turns and grabs his crutches again to make his way out of the bunk. Once steady on the ground he stops and takes a deep breath, battling between emotions, and logic. It’s a far more intense struggle than he would have imagined.

The Kiss

*Wes smiles at he looks at Cindy.* " Its ok. I know its a hard thing to see people hurting and not being able to do anything. Sometimes the best thing to do it let things run there corse and it will straten themselfs out."

*Rosetta lets her sobs soften as she feels the comfort of Micks arms. Finally she drifts off to sleep in his arms.*

*Angel nods to Luke and stands returning his kiss and heading quitly out the door.*

*Wendy thinks and yawns at the moment.* " Probley a while longer. Not enough hours in a day. I have so much fun with you the time flys by. I hate it." *Wendy smiles at Clint.*

*As Katie feels Jason's warm hand on her face she pushes her head into it alittle. His words giving her comfort. As Katie looks into Jason's eyes, she can see he feels her pain. Steping in alittle closer to Jason so she is within inches of his face talking in a low soft voice she replys.* "Thank you Jason. For making me feel better. You are a good friend." *a small smile forms on Katie lips. Jason had made her feel much better just by being there. As if being pulled by a strange force Katie says." I wont being going anywhere for now." * Leaning in Katie gives Jason a soft quick kiss. Than as if relizing what she did she take a step back away from him. Her face a crimson red.* "I'm.....I'm sorry..I dont know..." *Katie shoves her hands into her hoodie pockets, and she looks at the floor.*

Comfort

Cindy sniffs and leans into Wes, finding it hard to gather her courage. Finally she pulls away far enough to look up at him. “I’m…I’m sorry. It’s just…I don’t know…I want to fix this whole thing and I can’t.”

Mick guides Rosetta into the other room, slipping past Jade to sit down on the couch. He rocks Rosetta quietly for several minutes, just letting her cry. “Shh…it’s all right. We were all scared…we’re all upset and that didn’t help things any. Katie will cool off, and we’ll straighten things out in the morning. You didn’t do anything wrong.”

Luke nods to Angel and rises as well. “Yeah, I should probably get out of here too. No point in eavesdropping on private conversations.” He leans over to give her a kiss and smiles. “See you in the morning.”

Clint quirks an eyebrow and sighs, turning back to the computer as well. Why did he feel funny about this whole exchange? He never really liked Jason, but seeing him and Katie get yelled at….he wasn’t sure what to think. “How late you planning on staying up?” he asks Wendy.


Jason is taken by surprise by Katie’s sudden embrace, but he takes it in stride, returning the hug with strong arms. He rubs her back as she cries, masking his awkwardness. She had so much strength…so much courage…yet she was vulnerable like any other human being, and now felt so small in his arms.
He listens to her talk, and finally draws her away so he can look at her, the moonlight streaming in through the window. He remembers the night before when the moon had caressed her face as it did now, but the smile had been replaced by tears. He reaches out to with his thumb to dry them, brushing her cheek gently, though his hand is rough. “I know…funny thing about words…no matter how they’re intended, they can hurt worse than anything else.” He searches Katie’s eyes, wondering what kind of comfort he could possibly offer. His heart aches like never before, as if he is absorbing her pain.
He holds her at arm’s length, offering a compassionate half-grin. “It’ll be okay. Just don’t leave…there are too many other regrets to deal with, without adding another one to the pile.”

What to do

*Wes wraps his arms around Cindy just holding her and giving her the comfort she needs. Looking up at Mick, wes gives a nod.*

*Feeling Jason's hands on her shoulders she turns and stands. Being distraught and not even relizing what she is doing she throws her arms around Jason and rests her head on his shoulder. Finally Katie stops crying enough to talk.* " No J its not your fault. I have a mind of my own and I could of said no. We did this together. I new what would happen. If I had to choose to do it again I would. I really had a fun and exciting time. Being able to do something on my own with a friend. I just dident relize my aunts words would hurt so much is all.*

*Angel looks to Luke and softly whispers.* "I'm going to head to bed I think."

*Wendy looks to Clint her eyes going from wide to rolled as she turns back to the computer.*

*Rosetta sobs.* " I just was so scaired, and...I dont know what to do."

I'm sorry

Mick takes Rosetta in his arms and lets her cry, gently running a hand through her hair. “It’s okay,” he comforts. “It’ll be alright. She’s just upset.” He glances up to catch Wes’ eye, conveying that he only hopes he’s right.

Cindy flinches at someone’s touch and turns to see Wes. Her lower lip trembles, her eyes begging for comfort.

Austin takes a deep breath and sinks into a chair, covering his face with his hands. No one knows how to respond…no one knows how to react.

Jade continues to stand in the living room doorway, her eyes wide.

Con glances out the window to keep track of everyone, keeping his opinions to himself.


Jason heads in the direction of Katie’s bunk, not even sure why he’s following her. He can’t help the feeling of hurt that has crept into him. He can’t help feeling her pain, and it’s a miserable sensation. No one should have to suffer like that, even if the cause was unintentional.

He sees her door cracked and can hear her crying inside. Frowning, he takes the steps and impulsively lets himself in. Setting his crutches quietly aside, he limps up behind her, laying both hands on her shoulders. “I’m sorry, Katie…this is all my fault.”

:)

*Rosetta turns and burys her face into Mick's shoulder.* "What have I done?"

*Katie heads to ger bunk. Not hearing Jason she enters. The door open just a crack not aware it open still. Siting down at her little table she sobs softly to herself. She knows Rosetta dident mean her words but it still stung.*

*Wes turns and puts a hand on Cindy's arm.*

Harsh words

Mick gets on his feet as Wes stands, and he moves closer to Rosetta, knowing that in the morning words will be regretted.

Jason’s eyes narrow at Rosetta’s words. He understands what she’s really saying, but is appalled at their impact. As Katie’s eyes fill with tears, a pain hits him like a kick to the gut. The feeling is so severe that he almost cringes.

He turns to watch Katie leave, helpless. Swinging back around, he glares at Rosetta, then Austin, then back to Rosetta. “You two think you’ve got it all figured out…you think that harsh words will keep us under control and put us in our place. But all you manage to do is push us away. Hang this case for corrupting what was good. You used to know how to love, but you all have your heads stuck in the ground, pretending that if you keep us locked up, the Agency can’t touch us.” Jason shakes his head in disgust. “You keep going down this road. Go ahead. It’s exactly what the Agency wants – to tear us apart.” He fixes his gaze on Rosetta. “And you better pray that what you just said to your niece doesn’t push her away for good, because you would have lost something far more precious than you could imagine.”

Spinning around, he takes himself to the door, managing to get himself outside, despite the hindrance of his crutches. He lets the door slam shut behind him and hobbles off t he porch. Squinting in the dark, he looks around and calls out. “Katie?”


Austin stands stunned, staring at the door. He doesn’t know what to feel. He’s angry, hurt, embarrassed, sad…

Mick reaches out to lay a hand on Rosetta’s shoulder.

A tear trickles down Cindy’s cheek.

Gone Tomarrow

*As the shouting in the mess hall continues, most everyone is now watching what is going on as the yelling continues. Everyones nerves uptight now.*

*Rosetta's blood boils now now than ever.* "Maybe it was wrong for me to have to come here Katie. Into this all. Maybe you never were ment to be here."

*As Katie listens to Rosetta her eyes begin to get fuzzy.* "Your right Aunt Rosetta maybe I shouldent have. Maybe I should just leave. And you always tryed to say you were my friend. Now I see what you think of me."

*After hearing enough of everything going on and relizing words are being mistaken Wes stands up.* "Ok guys, we are all tired and upset. How about we cool down and get some sleep. Than we can talk more tomarrow."

*Katie glances at Wes.* "Sorry Wes, but I dont think I can ever forget the words I just hurd here. I'm going to bed. Maybe when you wake up Rosetta your burden will be gone." *Katie turns and walks out of the bunk house. Her eyes still fuzzy with tears.*

*Rosetta eyes widen.* "Katie thats not what I...." *Rosetta is greeted by the slam of the door. Looking at Jason than Mick and back to Jason Rosetta finishes her sentince.* "thats not what I ment. It came out wrong."

Fight

Luke throws his arms around Angel, drawing her close to give her a peck on the head. “Nothing.” He grins at her. “Just thinking…”


Cindy is grateful for Wes’ company, though when Jason arrives, her attention is quickly diverted.

Clint remains seated as the raised voices resonate through the mess hall. He glances at Wendy, an eyebrow raised, but keeps quiet.

Jade comes in from the living room, her eyes wide as she hears the shouting. She stops in the doorway, watching, and unsure how to react.


Jason grits his teeth as Katie gets yelled at, and he can feel his irritation rising.

When Rosetta stops, Austin opens his mouth to speak, but Jason cuts him off. He looks at Rosetta, trying to maintain an element of respect, but not taking kindly to what had been said. “Look, if you want to blame someone, blame me, alright? I’m the one who made the decision to take off, and I’m the one that dragged Katie along. I take full responsibility for any and all of this. DON’T give her a hard time.”

“You’re certainly right you’re to blame!” Austin exclaims, jumping in. “And Rosetta’s right! What if the Agency had spotted you? Both of you out there on your own! You would have been no match for them.”

“That’s not true.” Jason shifts his glare to his grandfather. “You know me better than to think I’d walk into something blind, and besides that, four eyes are better than two, and Katie is dang good at sensing danger.” His face reddens as his anger grows. “Don’t pretend that we’re little kids who ran off for the fun of it.”

Austin’s jaw tightens, and he crosses his arms on his chest. “So why, pray tell, DID you run off?”

Jason swallows hard, knowing that he had crossed a line by going to see Carter himself. “I went to have my suspension lifted.”

“You WHAT?”

Jason stands a little straighter. “I spoke to Carter.”

Austin’s eyes can’t get any wider. “You spoke to Carter…you went over MY head? You completely ignored all the charges against you and DARED to show your face in Carter’s office?!”

“Yes.” Jason stares him dead in the eye. “And I succeeded.”

Silence. Austin can’t believe it. “You’re suspension is lifted?”

“Yes.”

Anger flashes in Austin’s eyes. “I can’t believe your nerve! And I can’t believe Carter did that! After all those charges, after everything that happened, and the shape you’re in… WHAT is going on in that head of yours??!”

Despite Jason’s ire for the verbal exchange, a tongue-lashing from his grandfather still evokes an element of childlike shame. He drops his gaze to the floor as the blood rushes to his face. “I did what I needed to do,” he defends in a lower tone. “I knew that if I told you where I was going that you would have stopped me, and had I called you on the way, you would have called Carter and warned him I was coming. I didn’t want that.”

“Of course not! If you would have had a clear conscience, you wouldn’t have tried to sneak around. You knew you were wrong!”

“I didn’t think I was wrong, and I still don’t. If Carter didn’t want me to stay on the case, he would have said so. It was his decision, not mine.”

“But you instigated it!” Austin throws his hands up in the air. “You have so many more issues here than just one, Jason! Apart from the fact that you went over my head and were stupid, you stole Pete’s car! You had us worried to death! You went off gallivanting around, with a girl no less, overnight – how do you think THAT will look on your record?”

Jason’s eyes shoot back up, his anger taking over. He lifts a finger to Austin in warning, his tone the most intense it’s been. “I’ll warn you for the last time, Austin. We are NOT having this conversation again. You get your mind out of the gutter and back where it belongs, or so help me, I’ll knock your block off for any implications against Katie’s integrity.” He glares into Austin’s eyes, his caution gone. “This has absolutely nothing to do with that and you know it. You’re just mad that I did something you didn’t want me to do. Get over yourself and deal with it.”

Their staredown intensifies, the unspoken words hanging thickly in the air.

Argument

*Angel makes her way over to Luke and sits next to him.* " You looks llike your thinking about an awfel alot. Whats on your mind hun?"

*Wes stays with Cindy to try and keep her comapny. Knowing she is worryed about Jason dosent make it easy, but understand and keeps trying anyways.*

*Wendy snuggles next to Clint reading through some files. Its nice to have someone to feel comfortable around and spend time with.*


*As Jason pulls into the ranch Katie lets out a long sigh.* "This is the best part...facing the music." *Katie rolls her eyes as they enter the mess hall. As Austin comes twords them with his questions Katie stands furm behind Jason.*

*As the kids walk in the door Rosetta is quick to get up behind Austin.* "You went to TJY, all the way to TJY. Without saying anything to anyone. What if you were killed?"

*Katie looks at her aunt.* "But we wernt!"

*Rosetta looks to Katie her own fire in her eyes.* "That dosent matter. No one new where you were, if you were killed we would have no idea where to find you. You had us all worryed sick. And you young lady should know better. Havent you learned you lesson?"

*Katie's face gets red as she knows Rosetta is talking about the past.* " The only differnt if I dident do anything wrong and dangerouse. I was helping a friend in need."

Rosetta: "YOU DIDENT DO ANYTHING WRONG? YOU BOTH STOLE SOMEONE CAR. AND FROVE HALFWAY AROUND THE COUNTRY. The Agency is everywhere. What if they saw you to and tryed something?" *Rosetta still notices Katie has her sun glass on.* " That those glasses off. Its dark out you dont need them. You look like someone bodyguard."

*Katie whispers under her breath but loud ebough to hear.* "Maybe I am."

*Rosetta snaps her gaze to Katie again taking a step twords her.* "What did you say young lady?"

*Katie takes off her sunglass.* "Nothing."

*Rosetta throws her hands up in disgust.* "I just dont get it."

Katie: "Dident you do this stuff to when you were my age? You and everyone alse here?"

Rosetta:" This is far differnt from what I did when I was your age. I was trying to keep you from this. So you dident have to deal with any of the hardships I did."

Katie: "Well I guess you dident. No disrespect Aunt Rosetta but I did what I thought was right. And making sure my friend got to his destanation alive and home again was important to me. I am 20 years old. I can make my own desitions."

*Rosetta lets out a sigh to upset to say anything more. She looks to Austin for help, and to continue.*

Back

Evening comes. The gang gathers for supper once again and conversations are kept light, despite the tension that has set in. There has been no sign of Jason and Katie yet. As the hours drag slowly by, Eric opts to go to bed, and his pattern is soon followed by several others.

Jade yawns and curls up on the couch in the adjoining room, tired, but wanting to stay up until Jason and Katie arrive.

Cindy tries to keep herself occupied and stress-free, though Austin's pacing doesn't help any. She attempts helping go through some files, but soon gives up, her attention too far removed.

Clint stays mostly out of curiosity, wanting to know both if Jason and Katie's absence had anything to do with the case, and how Austin and Rosetta were going to react.

Sensing Rosetta's worry, Mick stays in the mess hall to be of support if needed, and remains quiet, observing the others from a table by himself.

Luke stretches out his legs on a second chair in front of the fireplace, yet another who is interested to see what has really happened. He keeps one eye on Angel, his mind split between two different worlds.


Midnight. Jason slowly pulls into the driveway, the headlight sweeping the yard. Seeing the lights still on in the mess hall, he sighs deeply and parks near the door. Shutting of the engine, he sees a figure come to the window. He glances to Katie with a look that says, 'I really don't want to go in there.' "Well...I guess we don't have much of a choice." He gets out of the car and grabs his crutches to make his way to the door with Katie. Pausing for just a moment, he enters.

Cindy looks up quickly from the book she had been reading, and immediately stands. Her relief of seeing her son overrides her anger for the moment, and she goes to him quickly, giving him a motherly hug. "You had us worried sick!" She backs up, looking at him with concern. "What ever possessed you to run off like that?"

Jason gives Katie a sidelong glance as he tries to formulate an answer. He sees Austin only feet away, wearing a look on his face that proves he is quite unhappy. "Well, I guess it was my desire to do what I thought was right." He hesitates. "...We went to TJY."

Austin's eyes widen as a strange silence lingers for several moments.

coming to a close

*Angel finally makes her way to the mess hall. Looking around but not seeing Luke she makes her way over to Wendy. Siting down Wendy and Angel look through catalogs of wedding dress, bridemades dress' flowers and more.*

*As Rosetta sits in her chair by the fireplace she looks up from her paper work every now and than wondering where the kids could be and when they will be home. Rosetta trys to consintrat on her paper work but it just seems impossable. So many things running through Rosetta's mind.*

*Katie nods* "I dont fear much, but I cant help what Austin and my aunt are going to say to us when we get home." *katie lets out a long sigh as she looks out the winsow.* "Its was work it though." * No matter how much she tells herself it will be ok she cant help but be worryed anyways. Katie has never seen her Aunt upset befor but there was a first for everything.*

Restless

Clint laughs and goes to the kitchen to grab some coffee both for himself and Wendy.

The morning seems to go quickly, as plans are made for more research and investigation throughout the day. Clint heads to Wes’ shop to work, while several others set up work stations in the mess hall as usual.

Becky and Rosalynn take a trip into town for some groceries, while Jade remains in the background, still feeling somewhat out of place, and ends up with a book near the fireplace.

Mick winds up in the barn to groom some of the horses, all computers taken up by the others. He lets his mind wander, thinking through everything he knows and trying to remember anything that might help the case.

Austin paces by the window, wondering when Jason and Katie will get back.


Jason laughs. “If you drink a whole pot, we’re never going to make it back home.” He doesn’t even have to look at the menu. “Mrs. Owens makes awesome pancakes….eggs are good….honestly, everything on the menu is good.”

All too soon, breakfast is over, and it’s time to hit the road again. Jason takes back over driving, feeling more alert and mobile by this time.

The drive seems longer than it did coming, and the hours drag by. Making few stops, and grabbing lunch on the way, the miles are left behind, one by one, and soon the sun begins to set.

Jason yawns and straightens in his seat. “Well, at this rate we’ll be back pretty late, but I’m sure there will be a welcoming committee waiting.”


Austin looks at his watch for the umpteenth time. The aroma from the kitchen signals that supper will be ready soon, and the gang begins to filter back into the mess hall. Where was Jason? Shouldn’t he have been back by now? Where on earth had they gone to be that far away?

New day

*Wendy stands tall and walks slowly past Clint.* "Thank you my handsome Prince. I am forever in debted to you. What would I have done with out without you." *Wendy sits down at the table and cross her legs.*

*Wes laughs and walks into the kitchen smiling at Becky.* "Those two are so cute together. Its good to see them both happy again." *Wes grabs some coffee and some muffins.*

*Rosetta slowly makes her way to the mess hall. Her heart was heavy. She wasent as mad at Katie as she was yesterday but she still wasent happy. Asking god for guidness to talk to Katie and Jason Rosetta feels a bit of peace.*

*Angel hands back for alittle bit doing some paper work in her office.*

*Katie smiles and follows Jason. Siting down she looks at the menu.* "Coffee, lots of Coffee leave the whole pot." *Katie giggles.* "mmm...what alse would you sujest from here J?" *Katie looks around taking in her saroundings.*

Breakfast

Clint gives Wendy a silly grin, allowing her into the mess hall. As they enter and Wes hurls the amusing warning in his direction, he jumps to the side in an astonished movement. He grabs a plastic fork from the table and assumes a sword fighting stance, aiming at a group of chairs. “Back! Back I say! Or I shall cut you to ribbons! You are no match for me. Ha!” He leaps forward, taking a stab in the air with the fork. “Take that! And that!” Satisfied with his attack, he twirls his weapon and returns it to an imaginary sheath at his side. Bowing to Wendy, he ushers her towards the table. “The way is clear, melady.”

Becky sticks her head out of the kitchen and rolls her eyes. “What’s gotten into that boy?”

Rosalynn giggles from her place at the kitchen counter as she pours a cup of coffee. “I haven’t seen him this wound up since we were in grade school.”


Cindy walks slowly to the mess hall, taking her time as she looks up at the clear morning sky. She’d woken up in prayer today, her only wish to see Jason safe again. Despite the knowledge that he had been seen, worry was still on her mind, and she would feel much better when her son was back.
She opens the front door of the mess hall just in time to hear Wes call to Clint about the chairs. She looks at him in surprise, a wry grin spreading across her face as she shakes her head.

Austin takes route to the ranch, with Con directly behind him. Sleep hadn’t come easy the night before, and today he was anxious for Jason and Katie to get back. He’d gone over a million times, it seemed, what he was going to say to his grandson. He’d get his point across if it killed him, and that would be the end of these shenanigans.


Jason directs Katie across town to a little family-owned restaurant, where few have gathered yet this early. A bell jingles as they enter through the door, and a heavy, middle-aged woman comes out of the kitchen to greet them. Her eyes widen as she sees them, a genuine smile spreading across her round face. “Well I’ll be. Hotshot! We thought you dropped off the face of the earth, and from the looks of it, you did!”

Jason chuckles and nods to the woman. “Hi, Mrs. Owens.”

She comes forward, furrowing her brow in sympathy at Jason’s scarred face and his crutches. “You poor thing, what happened?”

“Oh, just got in a little scrape.”

“Uh-huh. That means it’s one of those ‘if I told you, I’d have to kill you’ instances, doesn’t it?”

“You’re just as sharp as ever.” Jason winks at her in amusement. “It’s nothing some of your fine cooking can’t cure.”

Mrs. Owens waves him off, rolling her eyes. She glances in Katie’s direction with a smirk. “He’s such a flirt.” But she can’t help a good-natured laugh. “He does know the right things to say though, doesn’t he?” She shakes her head and turns back towards the kitchen. “Find yourself a table,” she calls over her shoulder. “I’ll be right back out.”

Jason grins, spinning his gaze to Katie. “My favorite table is over there by the window. And trust me – if you wanted coffee, you’re at the right place.”

chairs

*Katie nods and takes the keys understanding.* "OK your going to have to direct me where to go to eat. I dont know my way around here." *Geting into the driver seat Katie feels excited. She was never able to drive such a nice car before. Before they know it, they are heading down the road.*

*Wendy grins at Clint.* " Watch it smart guy or I am going to make a chair attack you again." *Wendy glances at the chair as she enters the mess hall. giving alittle bow to Clint who held the door.* " Thank you Sir."


*Wes slowly makes his way to the mess hall. The night before still showing signs in his eyes. Coffee will make it better. Entering he see Clint and Wendy making there wya to the table.* " CLINT WATCH OUT...THE CHAIR...ITS GONNA ATTACK." *Wes gives a sly grin.*

Keys

Jason chuckles and shakes his head. "You win. Give me a minute to get some shoes on, and we'll scoot out of here. There's nothing to eat in the house since we've been gone. I need to get some food though, so we can stop on our way out of town and you can have your coffee." He turns to go back to his bedroom, wanting to eat something soon so he can take some pain killers. His knee is throbbing, though he tries not to let it show.

Finally ready, he gets together his own backpack of some things he's wanted, and aims for the door. Locking up the house again, he turns to Katie, holding out the car key. He doesn't want to admit needing help, but he's in no good shape this morning. "You're gonna have to drive for a while."


Clint opens the mess hall door with a grin. "Hey! She can walk!"

Awake

*Wendy giggles and shakes her head. Heading inside Wendy sits and reads alittle. Than turns off her light and drifts off to sleep.*

*Wendy makes her way to the mess hall walking on her own 2 legs. Angel took her cast off early this morning. Though Wendy now has a slight limp*

*Katie answers the door her hair wet indacating she already has taken a shower. It looks as though she was up much earlyer than Jason.* " You were sleeping later than me, so I think YOUR the sleepyhea." *Katie smiles and grabs her back pack.* " I need some coffee."

Wakeup call

Cindy smiles and shakes her head as Wes leaves. She sighs with content and heads to bed, feeling warm and fuzzy inside...a feeling she hasn't felt for a long time. Sleep comes easy.

Clint beams. "Great! And you'll be out of your wheelchair? Awesome." He lingers awkwardly for a moment, then finally turns to leave. "See you in the morning, Wendy." He positions himself on the short railing to slide down the distance of the three steps and lands to jog to his own bunk.



Morning. The ranch is sleepy and people are slow to rise after yesterday's worrying, and a late night.

Jason cracks one eye open, groggily looking at his clock and he groans. It takes all the energy he has to drag himself from bed. He makes it down the hallway to take a shower, grimacing as his knee has become stiff overnight.
After cleaning up he throws on a clean pair of jeans, white tee, and flannel shirt that he leaves unbuttoned. Still in his bare feet, he heads back down the hall on his crutches and raps his knuckle on Katie's door. "Yo, sleepyhead...five o'clock..."

try to sleep

*Wes smiles at Cindy. His own heart raching as he waited for Cindy's response.* "Wonderful. Well, have a great night." *Wes turns to leave almost falling down the steps but catches his balance and disapears into the dark.*

*Wendy giggles as her face turns a shade of red.* "Why I'd love to go Sir. The Queen herself said I should be out of my carage by tomarrow." *Wendy points to the wheel chair. Than gets a more serouse look on her face* "Yes Clint. I would love to go with you."

*Katie wakes brefly, but closes her eyes again trying to tell herself not to worry. Jason was in the other room fine. He dident need a babysiter only a friend. Katie trys to fall back to sleep.*

Nightmare

As they stand on the porch, Cindy looks up at Wes with surprise. His hand feels warm...gentle... A blush comes to her face. "Well, I....I mean..." She stammers, unsure of her own response. "It's just a casual event, right? I mean, we'd be going as friends...just as friends..." She swallows hard, getting lost in Wes' eyes. "...Yes. I'd love to go."

Clint grins, taking hold of Cindy's wheelchair. "Madam, you have never been more safe, for I am the king of conquering chairs! Onward!" He steers her to the door, and they make their way to Wendy's bunk. Stopping outside the door, Clint gets a mischievous look on his face and puts his foot in front of one of the wheels so she can't go inside. "This princess wouldn't want to accompany a lowly peasant to a winter social, would she?"


A nightmare propels Jason into a state of panic as he sits bolt upright in bed. Eying the darkness, it takes him a moment to remember where he is. Forcing his own breathing to slow, he flops back onto his pillow and wipes the sweat from his brow. That had been a new kind of nightmare...it had been more than images from the past. It had combined the horrific scenes with new and imagined ones, overlapping his former and current lives. Was it a glimpse at what could really happen? Could his own decisions that pushed him down one path cause all that pain to people he cared about?
He automatically glances to the papers from Carter again. Was his nightmare a warning, or simply rampant an unnecessary worries coming out?
Rolling over on his side, he sees his clock. Three in the morning. They'll have to rise in just a couple hours if they're going to get back to the ranch that night.
He closes his eyes and tries to go back to sleep.

Will you

*As Katie shuts the door she smiles. Jason's smile imprinted on her brain. What was is about him that made her feel this way. Cralwing back into bed Katie pulles the blankets up to her chin. Stairing into the dark for a long while she fimaly falls asleep.*

*Wes gets up with Cindy and exits with her. Walking her to her Bunk.* "Cindy...I wanted to ask you something." *Wes cheeks turn a slight shade of red as he takes Cindy's hand.* " I wantd to know if you would go to the winter social with me?"

*Wendy smiles as Clint.* " I would love an escort. As long as you promise to protect me if any chairs attack us."

Going to bed

Jason grips Katie’s hand firmly, guiding her across the hall and to Cindy’s room. He says nothing, as he lets her go, simply leaving her with his signature gaze before turning to go back to his room. Once there, he shuts his door and leans his back against it, closing his eyes and letting out a long breath. “Oh, Katie,” he whispers. Shaking his head, he crawls back into bed, this time able to doze off within a few minutes


The card game finally comes to a close as the five at the table grow tired. Jeff is the first to leave, and Cindy stands and stretches. “Sorry, y’all, but I’ve had it. Thanks for the fun.”

Clint stands as well, looking to Wendy. “I think it’s about time I headed to bed myself. Would you like an escort to your bunk?”

Back to my room

*Katie sighs.* "You sound like my aunt now. I might as well go back into the room or I will never hear the end of it." *Katie gives a sly grin. As she takes Jason's hand it feel like eletricity shoot though her. For a bref moment she lingers. In the past she has held a guys hand, but this time it felt.....differnt. Katie wonders if Jason can tell but says nothing. Slowly she steps forword back to ehr room.*

Bed

Jason squints at Katie, trying to figure her out, and the silence lingers for several moments. He runs a hand through his hair and heaves another sigh, his grin still toying with his mouth. “Katie, Katie, Katie, what am I going to do with you?” He looks into her eyes, and for the first time, she makes him feel awkward. It takes an effort to shove aside the unexplainable feelings, and he bites his lip, too many thoughts running through his mind that he doesn’t want to deal with. “You’re a stubborn brute, but I’m not gonna let you sleep in the hallway. What kind of a gentleman would I be, letting you do that?” He limps out of the doorway and holds out his hand. “You’re going back to bed. Come on.”

*Katie smiles up at Jason. The dark alumanated by it.* " I was sleeping. I can run off an hour or two of sleep at a time. Something about my body it dosent need much sleep to be rested. Trust me, I'm ok."*Katies eyes dance in the dark as the moonline hits them.*

Need Rest

Jason sighs and leans on the doorway, looking down at Katie. As his eyes adjust to the dark, he studies her face. "Don’t be sorry. I was already awake. You do realize though, that you’re going to have to figure out some way to not let my restlessness bother you. You’ve got to sleep too.” He shakes his head. “I’ve given up trying to figure out how you can tell when I’m in trouble, but I do know that you’re human and need rest. So…. How about you try getting back to bed, hmm?” His grin shows through the dark, proving he’s more amused than annoyed.

Cards

*Katie slowly turns. He dosent startle her for she hurd him walk across the floor. * "I'm sitin here silly whats it looks like. I couldent sleep, and I could sell you were restless so I was hoping..bah I dont know. I'm sorry I woke you." *Katie's face turns a slite shade of red. Its a good thing its dark.*

*Wes giggles.* "Ok Miss cardshark, we are playing Pinochle. Deal em out."

*Wendy glances at Clint and smiles.* "This was a good night indeed."

???

Cindy shakes her head in amusement and gets a glass of water from the kitchen. Coming back into the other room she sighs, grinning at Wes. “Alright…watching someone fight a chair has got to be worth staying up for.” She pulls out a chair next to Wes and grabs the deck of cards, shuffling them expertly. “However, I think a card game on the side will be entertaining as well. What are we playing?”


Jason opens his eyes for the umpteenth time an sighs. Suddenly his ears pick up the sound of movement in the hall. He glances at his clock. Katie’s been in bed for hours. A chill runs down his spine.
Silently rolling out of bed, he manages to pull on a pair of jeans, but doesn’t bother with a shirt, and limps to the door in his bare feet, not making a sound. Slowly he cracks the door and squints into the hall. A figure sitting in the chair startles him. “Katie? What on earth are you doing?”

Protection

*Rosetta takes one more look around the barn and sighs. She was geting older alright. There was a time when she could stay up all night, but not anymore. Time was catching up to her. Shuting off the lights and making sure the barn door was shut Rosetta heads to her office for the night.*

*Wes smiles at Cindy.* "We sure are. How about you come sit next to me babe and watch Clint defeat his chair again." *Wes says in a teasing tone.*

*Wendy bursts out laughing.* "Wow...I wont ever forget this." *Wendy once again trys to keep a solam face,* "So we gonna keep playing cards or is mister hodieani over there still doing his tricks with the chair."

*As Katie wakes she can feel Jason uneasyness. He's not in trouble...but he is restless. Katie throws the blankets back and hopes out of the bed. Leaving her room, she makes her way to Jason's door. Spoting a chair she pulls it up to the wall and sits down. Katie dosent want to disturb Jason but she hopes maybe her presence outside the door will give Jason enough comfort to at least get alittle bit of shut eye.*

Night

Austin rolls his eyes. “Katie and Jason both. If he thinks he can get away with a stunt like this, he’s sorely mistaken.” He turns around to head back out of the barn. “I gotta go tell Cindy. See you two tomorrow.”

As Austin leaves, Mick stands up and stretches. “Well…I guess that’s that. At least we know those kids are alright, no matter how stupid they were.” He shakes his head. “As for this old cowboy, it’s past my bedtime. I’ll see you in the morning.” He throws Rosetta a quick grin with a wink, and turns to exit the barn.



Clint takes a bow. “Yes, I’d say that chair won’t dare cross me again. Why? Because I’m brave! I’m strong! I’m…”

“…Crusin’ for a bruisn’ bubble brain,” Jeff quips. “Are you gonna sit down on that misbehaving chair or stand their talking to it all night?”

“Uh…” Clint spins around and picks up the chair, promptly sitting on it and scooting back up to the table. He clears his throat, not meeting anyone’s eyes for fear of bursting out laughing again, and his face reddens as he holds it in.

Eric rolls his eyes and finishes off the glass of iced tea he’d been nursing all evening. “I hate to break this up, y’all, but I’m beat.”

“Aww…” Clint complains.

“Sorry.” Eric chuckles and shakes his head and stands up. “You can sit here with your chair wars all night as far as I’m concerned, but I got a date with my pillow.”

The four are left alone, but the back door opens and Cindy steps inside. After Austin woke her to tell her about Jason, she couldn’t get back to sleep, and had decided to go to the mess hall and get something to drink. She raises her eyebrows as she sees Wendy, Clint, Jeff and Wes. “Are you guys still up?” she asks, amazed.


Jason stares up at his ceiling. Being back in his own room felt good, but strange. The house felt different. There was an emptiness there, without his mother, without the dog… yet he wasn’t alone.
He tries to drift to sleep, but the pain in his leg keeps him from the peace required. Awake, his mind drifts over the day, thinking back to the confrontation at TJY. Carter was right…he had changed. He could feel it in himself…there was no denying it. He had started out on this case, wearing a mask, fooling himself and those around him. After breaking down, his walls had crumbled, leaving him bare and vulnerable. But somehow….he had overcome. Now no longer was a mask needed…he was becoming his true self. Fear was no longer present…a new reserve was there instead, steered by a wise confidence rather than an air that turned people off. Would it last? Was he really on the right path? What did the future hold for him now?

He thinks of TJY. There was so much more there than this one case. Though having been started with the drive to take down the Agency, the vigilante corporation had grown quickly into much more, with a variety of cases that kept the full staff constantly busy. They had evolved into more than a small unofficial basement gang that it had started out as. Did Jason really have a future there? It was his current life…it was his talent… it was what he was born to do. Would he continue on the same route, or would he be given a different job? Did he want to stay on the field all the time, or would he rather be in the office in a more secure atmosphere? He was respected at TJY…he knew how to manipulate things well enough to get himself in whatever position he wanted to if he tried hard enough…

Jason turns his head to see the papers lying on his nightstand. He hadn’t revealed to anyone the second sheet that was underneath his suspension release. It was a suggestion…perhaps more of a request…he could easily accept it or turn it down with no questions asked. His accepting it would certainly set him down a path that would keep him on that route indefinitely. Of course, it also depended on the other party, but he was pretty certain of that outcome…
His eyes start to drift shut, his mind beginning to shut down.

A wave of pain causes him to flinch, harshly waking him back up again. He tries to get comfortable, but his knee feels as if it’s on fire, despite the pain killers he had downed with supper. Tossing and turning, sleep just won’t come, and the night feels as if it will never end.

Fast Asleep

*Rosetta loved at Mick with a mischeavus grin Siting up straght and crossing her legs she says..* " I sir...am a Lady." *Than relaxing and pointing a finger at Mick she says.* "...but not so much that I couldent do just that." *Rosetta smiles.Rosetta looks up and seeing Austin. Listing to what he has to say Rosetta nods.* "Well at least someone knows where they are." *Rosetta rolls her eyes.* " That girl is still geting a good talking to when she gets back. She had me worryed sick."

*Wendy laughs even harder at Clint.* " Ya you sure did tell that chair who is boss dident you."

*Katie grins at Jason feeling a bit embarssed.* " Thx J. I think the bed will be nice after all." *Katie heads down the hall and grabs some towles. Heading to the bathroom she taked a shower. After she wonders the house a bit taking in how amazing it looks. Finally after grabing a glass of water Katie heads back to her room. Stopng she stairs at Jason's door for a long moment than heads into her room. Laying down on the bed it feels so soft. She had forgotten what a real bed felt like. Within minutes she is fast asleep.*

Spending the night

Mick laughs, allowing himself to relax. "What were you going to do? Hogtie me and throw me in the back of your truck or what?"

"Hey, there you are." Austin walks into the barn, looking for Rosetta, not realizing he's interrupting anything. "I just got a call from Carter. He said Jason and Katie are safe. Wouldn't tell me who found them, where they were or what they were doing, but..." He throws up his arms in surrender. "I guess we'll just have to trust that they're fine."


"No, I'm not okay!" Clint struggles underneath the chair, taking it in both hands and wrestling it off of himself. "I've been assaulted by a chair! It's a conspiracy, I tell you!" He kicks the chair away, bounces to his feet and assumes a karate-type stance, glaring at his inanimate adversary. "Ha! Take that!"

Jeff shakes his head, joining in the laughter. He tosses his cards to the middle of the table, giving up on the hand.


A grin plays at the corner of Jason's mouth as he pays the waiter for the meal. "If you want to sleep on the floor, that's fine, but there are more comfortable options. Come on."
He leads the way out of the restaurant, though lets Katie help him with the doors again. Settled in the car, they drive down the lighted streets. Jason steers through several side streets, ending up on the far side of town in a sleepy little housing development.
Turning down a curved street, they finally pull into the driveway of a small one-story tan house. A link fence runs around the well-kept yard, bushes line the house, and there is evidence of flowers along the walk.
Jason turns off the car and gets out, nodding for Katie to follow him to the darkened house. Making his way to the porch, he fishes for a key in his pocket and lets himself in, making sure Katie is behind him. Entering, he automatically reaches for a light switch to illuminate an entryway that leads to a kitchen on the left and a living room on the right.
"Follow me." Jason doesn't explain, but leads Katie through the living room into the hallway, maneuvering with his crutches around the furniture. Coming to a bedroom, he reaches around the corner and turns on the light to reveal a feminine-looking room, tastefully decorated in blues and tans. "Mom won't mind if you take up residence in here tonight." He grins at Katie. "Though if you really have the desire to sleep on the floor, be my guest."
He points into the room. "There's a private bathroom there, and if I know Mom, there should be fresh towels on the counter. Feel free." He thumbs back out into the hall. "My room's two doors down. If you need anything, that's where I'll be."

Laughter

*Rosetta smiles and nods as her heart flutters, and her tummy gets knots.* " Ok good. Cuz if you dident say yes I was going to make you go anyways." *Rosetta trys to make a joke trying to break the tention they are both feeling. Though even through the tention her is excited and already decieding what to wair in her mind.*

*Wendy laughs uncontroll able as Clint falls to the ground.* "AH HA...Now I am cheating...I see your cards, I see your cards." *Wendy sticks out her toung. Than as if relizing Clint actully fell on the ground she looks at him her face red from laughter. Trying to hold her laughs in she says...* "Are you ok Cint?" *...knowing good and well he is she looks fro Clint, to Jeff, to Wes, than back to Clint and once again busts out laughing.*

*Wes trys to keep a straght face as he looks at Jeff.* " Psht...remind of you any people we know. It seems so long ago when we were there age." *Wes cant hold it anymore and laughs.* "Well seeing as Clint's cards are all over the floor, I would guess this hand is over." *Wes looks at the two kids and smiles. In all the confustion, and hardships they still were young and able to have fun. It was good to see that.*

*Katie nods at Jason sugestion at finding somewhere to sleep knowing he means nothing malishus about it.* "Ya thats fine. I like sleeping on the floor. Its better for my back."

She started it!

Mick's eyebrows raise slightly at Rosetta's invitation. She's being so casual, but her words mean so much more than a simple duo to a social event. He looks into her eyes...seeking...questioning...his heart pulls him in two directions at once. The crossroad is begging him to make the choice. Left...or right... He swallows hard, knowing the silence he has created bears tension. As he would tear a caution sign from the ground, he nods. "Sure."



"Ah! Help!" Clint squirms and can't help his laughter as he's tickled. "I'm being attacked!"

Jeff rolls his eyes, holding back his own laughter, and he looks at Wes. "Kids these days."

"She started it!" Clint scoots back to avoid another tickle by Wendy, but he throws his weight too far. The chair tips, and before he knows it, he's on the floor, under the chair, his hand of cards flying in all directions.



Jason finds a table in the diner and they order. Hungry, the meal doesn't take long, and conversation is minimal. Finally, Jason glances at his watch. "It's getting late. We should probably find a place to stay for the night, then head out in the morning. You alright with that?"

Home Coming

*Rosetta feels her cheeks become a shade of red as Mick talks.* "Ya the best thing that came out of this all was you, and everyone alse. I'm sure I would go back and change somethings in my life to but not a whole lot. I cant imagen life with out you. It sure would be boring." *Rosetta sits and things for a long moment, and than a smile forms on her lips .* "I have a crazy thought and you can say no its ok. Would you like to go to the Winter Social wiht me Mick?"

*Wendy looks saprised at Clint.* "WHAT...me? I am doing no such thing." *Wendy leans over and starts to tickle Clint.* "I'll show you cheating...huh huh. Just cuz a girl is kicking your butt you think they are cheating." *Wendy starts to giggle so hard she can hardly controll herself.*

*As Katie gets into the car with Jason she smiles.* " Your welcome. I dont mind helping when I know what I say is true. Your a great friend Jason." *After driving a while they get to the dinner. It looks like a nice home orented place. Geting out of the car it feels nice to streach her legs. Katie lets out a content sigh and breaths in the fresh air.*