Baby steps

*As Jamie hears the door slam she looks up and see Con storm out of the office and head for the exit. Standing Jamie trots after Con to cath up.*

"Con WAIT UP! Whats going on?"

*Rosetta smiles up at Mick, replaying memories of long ago that had almost been forgoten when she first met Mick.*

"Ya know He kind of reminds me of his father when I first met him. Mick you use to hate me. and now look at us. We are gonna be married."

*Rosetta cant help but beam at times past and times a new.*

*Wes smiles at Clint as he heads out of the Shop a spring in his step.*

"Middle of next month."

*As Wes heads out of the shop he runs right into Cindy scooping her up in his arms he spins her around a few than seting her down.*

"I'll see ya in a few dollface, I need to go order wood and bring back some stuff for you to look at about windows, and doors, flooring than I need to look into a contractor to help me build the house so it dosent fall on us the first snowstorm. I'll be back love of my life."

"Next week? Really?"

*Katie stairs at her therips with excitment.*

"Thats amazing...I will deff be puting in more hours on walk."

Therpast: "Well Katie I dont know how, but you have had an amazing recovery. Your doing so well. You took 2 steps by yourself today without any bars or anything. Thats amazing. You defintly have the will power I will tell ay than."

*Katie smiles even bigger feeling pritty good about herself.*

"I have alot to live for, and lost of resons to look forwork to walking again. Thank you so much."

*Katie makes her way back to her room excitmnent taking over.*

Decisions

Jason grins as heads away from Katie’s room, hearing her reference to flying. His mind goes back to a time not all that long ago, yet it feels like an eternity, when he’d first started calling Katie his personal hero. It hadn’t been the best of times for him, but she had made it livable…she’d helped him through when there had been no one else.

Her statement about Kyle was interesting…Jason wasn’t yet convinced that there was nothing between them. But why should he really care anyway? Hadn’t he decided that he himself and Katie were just to be friends? If that was the truth, then he shouldn’t have even said anything about Kyle.

Making his way outside, he’s glad the weather is clear as he straddles his bike and heads for work.


Con sighs a little, though can’t express how much he appreciates Jamie’s support. How much had he missed these years by not recognizing her love sooner?

Finally letting the moment slip into a memory, Con lets her go and steps out of the car. He heads inside a little slower than normal, but as he walks, he holds his shoulders square and confident, hiding the insecurity he really feels. Once inside, he starts towards his office.

“Con!” Laura jumps up from her desk and comes to him quickly, throwing her arms around him. “What are you doing here? You scared me to death, you big goon.”

Con chuckles softly and gives her sister a warm hug. “I couldn’t stand staying in the house another day.”

“Yeah, well you should be in bed.” Laura stands back to look up at him. “You look alright, but not perfect.”

“Don’t worry, I’m fine,” Con reassures. Talking for a few more brief moments, he again aims for his office.

“What are you doing here?!”

Con sees Reese coming towards him, and grimaces. “Hi.”

Reese rolls his eyes. “Don’t ‘hi’ me! You should be at home.”

“Yeah, well, now my ride is here, so I’m staying.”

“Why is it that I got stuck with the most stubborn…bullheaded…senseless bunch of people that exists?!” Reese shakes his head. “Fine. But I want you to see Rick.”

“Come on, I’m fine.”

“Rick!” Reese orders. “Now. He hasn’t seen you yet this morning, and I have yet to receive a clean bill of health for you from him. If you don’t go see him right now, I’ll have you escorted back outside and to your house.”

Con heaves a sigh, but throws up his hands in surrender. “Fine. You’ll get your clean bill of health within the hour.” He starts up his route again, wandering down the hall, wondering how on earth he was going to pull this off. He knew he’d have to tell Reese sometime about his hearing loss…but now? Couldn’t it wait? …What was Rick going to say?


… “Con, I’m sorry! I’ve got to tell Reese!”

“Why? Just let me finish off this case first.”

Rick stares up at Con with disbelief. “I can’t do that, and you know it. I’m under written obligation to tell Reese what’s going on. I can’t skirt around it, and I’m certainly not going to lie.”


It’s twenty minutes later that Con is facing the conversation he knew would come. “Reese, please! Don’t do this to me.”

Reese sighs deeply, seated at his desk. “I don’t have any choice. I can’t, with good conscience, allow you to continue working in the field. Not like this.”

Con fights against his emotions as he stands behind the extra chair. “So, what then? I get to do paperwork all day? Take phone calls? Clean the floors? Empty trash?”

“Con, please,” Reese reprimands. “Don’t make this any harder than it is. I don’t know where I’m going to place you yet – don’t force me to make that decision now. As for the time being, I want you to recuperate fully, maybe even take some time off. After that, we’ll see. I could use you around the office.”

“I’m a bodyguard!” Con argues. “That’s what I do!”

“Then maybe you’ll have to change what you do.” Reese looks to the door. “I’m sorry that this happened, and we’re working on finding out who or why you were poisoned. I suggest you take that time off.” He looks back down at his paperwork, ending the discussion.

Con stays for several moments, his frustration and anger boiling inside of him. Finally he spins around and stalks through the door, letting it slam behind him. He makes no eye contact with anyone as he strides across the work floor, heading for the door.


“Jason, you have a call.”

“Thanks.” Jason picks up the phone at his desk. “Yeah, this is Jason. …Kyle? I thought you were at work. Oh, I see. Yeah. Really?” He glances at his watch. “I guess that would work. I could take a few minutes to go over those details. Sure… where do you want to meet?”


Mick envelopes Rosetta in a hug, frustrated with Dylan, but unwilling to take it out on anyone else. “I just don’t know what to do any more. It’s just getting worse, and I’m afraid if I give it too much time, he’ll be gone for good. He’s ready to walk right out of here, in trouble or not.”

Clint pulls a rag from his back pocket to wipe his hands after he catches the set of keys. “Groomsman, huh?” He quirks a grin. “Why not. When are you two tying the knot anyway?”

Smiles

*Katie cant help but looks a bit disapointed but trys to mask it all she could.*

"J, Kyle are I are just friends right now. Neather of us have even talked about dating or anything so you shouldent feel like your runing anything ok. But if you want other people to come with us tomarrow for dinner thats fine. Maybe Jamie and Con, or something."

*Katie holds her smile to Jason. Leting her eyes stair into Jason's.*

"I will ask when I got today. I hope they say I can soon, I'll find out who the band can talk to as well about waiting to play at the fundraiser. I think it will be fun."

*As Jason turns to head on the door Katie call after him.*

"Anytime J, you know that. Hey find out from Reese too when I get my power to fly."

*Katies lets out a giggle.*

*Jamie feels Con's hand tighten around her. Instintively her squeeze alittle more reasuring Con she is there for him. Looking deep into his eyes she trys her best to relay what she is feeling.*

"Everything has a reson and a time, God wont give you anything you cant handle."

*Lets out a sigh she gives him a smile and a small kiss on the cheek.*

"Ready? I'll be with ya everystep of the way."

*Steping out from one of the stalls Rosetta smiles and comes up behind Mick puting her arms around him.*

"Cuz he is your son and you love him. You do want to make up for lost time and wish he would see your trying. Though he is a at that age where he dosent want to listen. But something tells me in his young heart he does want to love you Mick. He is just scaired of geting hurt. Give him time Mick. He'll come around...trust me..his father did."

*Rosetta gives Mick s warm smile and a soft kiss. Mick, the bard, the horsed, nice weather=pricless.*

*Wes pulls himself from under a truck and smiles as he turns the key.*

"Purrs like a kitten."

*Shuting it off again Wes takes the keys and heads to where he last saw Clint. Clearing his throt as to not scaire him Wes throws the keys to him.*

"Mr. Frank will be coming to pick up his truck in about an hour. Here are his keys. I am heading out for the day I need to go to the lumber yard and order the wood to start Cindy and I's house. I'd like to have it finished before winter."

*Wes beams as he talks about the house and turns to head out only to spin back around and his heels.*

"Oh hey Clint I was wondering, would you like to be one of the grooms in my wedding?"

Emotions

While Katie is in the bathroom, Jason quickly changes clothes and is sitting down, lacing up his boots when she returns. He looks up as she mentions them going out to dinner the next day, and a crooked forms. “Maybe we can get some others to come along.” He glances back down at his laces. “If you and Kyle are starting to go together, I’m not going to make the same mistakes I did while you were with Wyatt.” He stands up and slings his backpack over his shoulder, grabbing his motorcycle gloves.

Tossing Katie a smile, he heads for the door. “When you’re in therapy today, see if the doctor knows when you’ll be able to get out of here. Wyatt and I are supposed to go over to Laura’s around lunchtime today to see about that ramp. If I don’t see you earlier, I’ll catch you tonight whenever you get back from dinner.”

Jason heads out the door, but pauses, leaning his head back in to look at Katie. “Thanks for helping me sleep.” He lets his eyes rest on hers for just a moment before disappearing out into the hall.


Con keeps his eyes on the road, but lets his long fingers curl around Jamie’s hand as she takes his. Her touch is gentle and soft, trying to soothe his weariness.

He says nothing on the way to TJY, his memory busy at work, trying to pull up any images or faces from two days prior when he would have been injected with the poison.

Once parked at TJY, Con finally turns his head to look at Jamie. He studies her face, following the curve of her glowing cheeks, and up to her eyes where he stops, letting his gaze linger. The feeling that welled inside of him was the same as it had been two nights ago…frightening, yet calming at the same time.

Con swallows hard, wondering at the past…wondering about the future. Looking into Jamie’s eyes, he wanted to know the answers...he wanted to feel reassured of his own security that he could provide. But there were too many unknowns yet to be faced. In the time span of twenty-four hours, his heart had experienced a change he never thought would occur. In another span of twenty-four hours, his future had been altered. What was God trying to show him?

His grip on Jamie’s hand tightens every so slightly.


“Dang it, Dylan! I told you not to do that!”

Dylan throws his father a piercing glared. “If I’m such a pain, why don’t you just send me away?! I’m sick and tired of sitting around this stupid ranch and listening to you try to make up for the past.” His glare persists. “Why don’t you just accept the fact that we’ll never have that perfect little relationship you’re trying to create?” Spinning on his heel, he stalks out of the barn, kicking the door frame on his way out.

Mick throws his arms in the air, letting out a groan before leaning up against a stall. “Why do I even try?” he mutters. “I should just send him back to his mother where he wants to be.”

Slip of the Hand

*Katie smiles and waves as Phil and Kyle turn and leave laughing as they went.*

"Those two I tell ya. How they dont get themself in trouble is amazing."

*Katie moves and gets herself up and out of bed and into her wheelchair to start the day.*

"Hey I am starting to get the hang of this."

*Katie wheels herself into the bathroom to brush her teeth. Than back out again to answer Jason's question.*

"Ya we had a pritty nice time. It was nice being able to get out. It was a normal abnormal day at Mom and Pop's. Never a dull monet with Mable and Herb. They are great people. Jamie is so lucky."

*A smile forms on Katies lips and the sunlight shines in through the open window lighting everything up.*

"Maybe tomarrow WE can go there for dinner. I could never get tired of there food."

*Katie rubs her tummy and giggles.*

*Jamie lets Con go and sits back in the drivers seat. How Jamie wish she could make Con's pain go away. It was so bazarr to see Con hurt Jamie felt so helpless.*

"Ok, I will but you need to take it easy understand me? I'll feel horrable if you dont, and hurt you self again."

*Jamie backs out of the driveway and heads twords TJY she lets out a sigh. Sliping her free hand into Con's and speaking alittle louder.*

"It's gonna be ok Hun."

Wishing

Kyle's eyes light up. "Ooh, that would be awesome if we could come play for a fundraiser! I know without even asking that Mike would jump on the chance. We'll just have to get in contact with the hospital administrator, get a playlist together, find out how much time we have and what equipment..." He lets his voice trail off, a sheepish grin forming.

Phil rolls his eyes. "Slow down, Genius."

Jason joins in with the enthusiasm. "I think this is a great idea. Besides, I know we all want to hear Katie."

Kyle looks at her, smiling. "You bet we do. I wouldn't want to miss that."

Hearing about her moving her toes, Kyle spins around with his hands in the air. "Woo! We need to have a wiggle party to celebrate!"

Phil puts a hand on his brother's shoulder. "Kyle, if you don't calm down, I'm going to have this guard dog here escort you outside. Now...I'm going to be late for work!"

"Oh yeah." Kyle makes it obvious that he's calming down. "Right. Okay. So...sorry to eat and run, but...." He glances to Katie. "Be ready at seven to go out for supper." Spinning on his heel, he heads for the door, pulling Phil with him. "So come on already! What's the holdup?"

Phil groans and follows after him, turning to wave at Katie and Jason. "See y'all later. Jason, we'll be in touch."

"Yeah." Jason waves them out and shakes his head in amusement. He sighs and goes to his backpack to get some clean clothes and start getting ready for the day. "So...I take it you and Kyle had fun yesterday."


Con finds it difficult already to catch everything Jamie is saying and forces himself to keep his head turned a bit to ensure he doesn't miss things. Once back in his driveway, he returns Jamie's hug, wishing she weren't right about telling Reese.

He puts his hand on the door handle ready to get out, but changes his mind. The wheels in his head are almost visibly turning as his mind jumps from one thing to the next. "Jamie, take me with you to TJY."

Have to

*Katie shakes her head and laughs her eyes sparkle not minding being woken.*

"What am I gonna do with you guys."

*Before Phil even peeks around the courner Katie can tell her is there and isent saprised to see him.*

" The nurse is gonna be SOOOOOO happy when I am finally gone. Oh since you 3 are together your gonna have to talk to Mike but, in a few weeks the Hospetal is gonna be having a talent show...or it was ment to be but they dident get enough people. So I am gonna do some singing and poem readings so we can still do the fundraiser, but I was wondering if Jetstream would like to play as well. It might help bring more money than just me would. Just something for you guys to think about."

*Katie smiles listing to Jason and Kyle barder back and forth more. It was always amusing to watch them. Katie would be happy just siting there and listiong to them all day.*

"Aww...I would of loved to have gone out with ya today but...oh well...there is always tomarrow or later tonight right? I wanted to spend alittle more time in therapy today anywayas and ask the doc about going home. I wiggled my toes yesterday."

*Katie beams blushing alittle at Kyle's comment.*

*As Jamie drives back to Con's her heart goes out to him. It had to be hard. TJY was Con's life. It ment everything to him. What would he do now.*

"Con, I know you dont want to but you have to tell Reese and take it from there. If you dont your endangering youself. I really would hate seeing something happen to you again."

*Jamie lets out a sigh as they pull into Con's driveway.*

"I really dont know what you should do Con. I dont, but I am here to help ya no matter what ok."

*Jamie leans over and gives Con a big hug.*

"You have alot of other people behind you too."

Results

Kyle and Jason come to a screeching halt as Katie sits up in bed and they realize that they have an audience.

"No, you don't want to know," Jason rolls his eyes.

Kyle twists his head to look over his shoulder at Katie, his eyes alive with mischief, though veiled with a stranger form of amusement as if he knows something of which he won't speak. "Help!" he laughs. "Call off your guard dog!"

Knowing that Kyle may like to pull stunts but was not mean enough to do anything with the picture he'd taken, Jason finally lets him go, giving him a slap upside the head. "What are you doing here anyway, other than disturbing the peace?"

Phil peers around the corner of the doorway. "Is it safe to come in?"

Kyle rubs the back of his head. "Yeah, but watch this guy. I should have known better than to try to run from someone who works with the FBI." He winks in Katie's direction, having fun with his own joke.

Jason shakes his head an crosses his arms. "So...? What's up?"

"You're not even dressed yet," Kyle points out. "That's what's up. I would have expected you to be out there on your bike rearing to go...you know, like all them fast-action cop movies."

"I am too dressed!" Jason looks down at his stocking feet, jeans and wrinkled t-shirt. "Well...maybe not for today, but I..." He lets his sentence go, in annoyed amusement. "Would you just answer my question?"

"Yeah, but first, how's your friend? Con?"

"Better," Jason nods. "He's going to be okay." He pauses, waiting for Kyle's explanation of him showing up this morning. "Well? Did you need something?"

Phil intervenes. "Kyle was paranoid that after Katie told you about our decision that you would have changed your mind about joining JetStream."

"You kidding me?" Jason raises his eyebrows. "Of course not. If you guys are all in agreement, then I'm in."

"Woo!" Kyle raises his hands in the air. "Then that means you'll play with us in two weeks at the park in Bakerton?"

Jason's eyes light up. "You bet. Set up practice times, and I'm there."

"Good." Kyle looks over to Katie. "I was also coming here to ask Katie to go out with me again today, but alas, my dear boss called me in to work on my day off, so I must resist the company of the lovely lady."


Con is grateful for Jamie's help, and is quiet on their ride downtown. Once reaching the office, they're met by the doctor himself. Retired and now having his own private practice, he knew his handful of patients well, and had known Con for many years, wise enough to not often ask too many questions about how Con had received injuries. He smiles and holds out his hand. "Well good morning, Con. I was just ready to step out for a while, so you caught me just in time. What can I do for you two?"

Con shakes his hand, and tries to be casual. "I, um...if you have time, I need you to check something out for me."

Dr. Bradley studies his face. "You don't look so good."

"Long story."

"I won't ask." Dr. Bradley gives a little smile. "Come on into the back and tell me what you need."

An hour later, the results of several tests are compiled, and Dr. Bradley breaks the news. "I'm sorry, Con. I know you had trouble with that ear once before, but it seemed to heal up okay. Whatever kind of infection you said you just had though, did its job too well. I'm afraid the damage is permanent. You're not going to hear anything out of that ear..."


...Con sinks down in the passenger seat of Jamie's car, his mind reeling. His body is tired, simply from being sick, and this added stress creates a new exhaustion. "I can't tell Reese," he says quietly. "I can't..he'll take me off duty...he won't want me on the field, much less continue as Austin's bodyguard." He thinks back to all the years he'd watched Austin's back...all the years he'd been able to go out on cases. Though some might think a hearing loss in one ear wouldn't be that big of a deal, it could be the difference between life and death when his job was to protect someone else. "...what am I going to do, Jamie?"

Downtown

*Katie opens her eyes at Jason and Kyle's voice. She had become acustom to this kind of waking for some reson or another. Kaite sits up in bed pulling her knees up to her chest and huging them. Shaking her head at the boys.*

"Dont you guys know this is a hospetal. There are sick people trying to sleep."

*Katie cant help but make a silly grin. Perfect. Everything seemed perfect.*

"Do I even really want to know whats going on?"

*Katie beams at the sun shoots through the window signaling a new day.*

*Jamies eyes widen alittle as she nods at Con. Fear being replace by simpathy. Jamie new TJY was everything to Con. Not being there would destroy him.*

"Ok Con lets get ya down town. Everything will be ok."

*Jaime helps Con up and out to the car heading down town.*

Antics

As Katie takes Jason's hand and pulls him up, he can't help his bit of surprise. He listens to her words carefully, searching her eyes as she speaks. She knew him well enough to know that at this point, he was exhausted but having trouble sleeping, and that she was the one who could help him.

Austin's words come back to him. 'It wasn't wrong...it was just plain stupid.' Was this still true? Jason questions his own judgment. He couldn't deny he wanted to agree with Katie though...and besides, Wyatt was no longer in the picture...there was no one else to offend... did that make it right? He knew both his and Katie's intentions were not inappropriate, and he would never do anything to break her trust.

Jason's previous day had been rough...his night had become hard... and he wanted his best friend.

Finally giving in, and ignoring his over-cautiousness, he sinks down on the bed beside Katie, stretching out on his back to rest his head on the pillow. He says nothing, but listens... it hits him a little harder than he thought as she mentions when he had been so sick... he wondered if he had ever really understood what that time had done to Katie.

As she speaks of friends, he knows he has experienced exactly what she is describing, through her...she'd been such a great support... Jason knew he could have survived the past few months without her, but it would have been a whole lot harder.

Jason lets silence reign when Katie finishes talking, and stares up at the ceiling. Being close to Katie helped him relax, and the nightmarish images were slowly dispersing. Finally he rolls over on his side with his back to Katie, though is close enough to feel her, and tucks his hands up under the pillow, closing his eyes. Her words brought comfort...they brought peace... how he longed for peace...

Sleep is quick to overtake his mind.


Con shakes his head at the mention of Rick. "No...not Rick..." He swallows hard, latching on to Jamie's gaze, and knowing that fear can be seen through his own eyes. He slowly picks himself up back off the floor, and leans on the kitchen counter, weighing his options. Finally he turns back to Jamie. "I've lost the hearing in my left ear, Jamie..." Saying the words aloud seemed to seal his fate. "I need to know if it's permanent, but I can't ask Rick. If the damages is permanent, my time at TJY could be over."


"I'm going to be late for work!"

"This will only take a minute."

"Why couldn't we have just called?!"

"Because." Kyle shoves his brother out of the elevator and down the hospital hall. "I want to see Jason face to face."

Phil rolls his eyes. "But Mike isn't even here."

"It's not my fault he had to open the store early this morning." Kyle keeps walking, throwing a silly wave to the nurse as they pass, though he receives little response. Seeing Katie's door barely open, he cautiously peeks inside, and his eyes widen just a little.

Phil looks in over his shoulder, slightly surprised himself at seeing Jason and Katie together. "They're sleeping," he whispers. "Come on, let's go."

A grin spreads across Kyle's face, and he keeps his voice quiet. "Nuh-uh... I came to ensure Jason's answer was still yes, I dragged you along for a witness, and I'm not leaving." He slips inside, with his brother trying to hold him back.

"Kyle!" he whispers hoarsely. "We'll come back later!"

Kyle ignores him and tiptoes across the room to the bed, still grinning. Reaching onto his belt, he pulls off his cell phone and opens it up, aiming the camera at the bed. With a press of the button, the image is captured. "Rise and shine!"

Jason's eye fly open, Kyle's words hitting him like a bucket of cold water. Sitting bolt upright, his mind is in a total fog, but he sees the phone in Kyle's hand and knows exactly what he'd done. Standing up, he throws a warning look at Kyle. "Give me the phone."

Kyle laughs and shakes his head. "Oh, no. This is too good."

Jason's eyes widen, though he's not all that upset - he didn't know if it was even possible to get upset with Kyle's innocent antics. "Come on, Kyle! Quit playing around!"

Kyle spins around and tosses his phone to Phil. "Quick! Run!"

Though having not even wanted to disturb Jason and Katie, Phil is fast to jump on the joke with Kyle, and does exactly as he's told, scooting out of the room.

Jason moves around the bed toward Kyle. "You little..."

Kyle holds up his hands, trying not to laugh. "Hey, down boy. It's not my fault you slept in late this morning. I just thought it was such a perfect Kodak moment, I couldn't pass it up!" He bolts for the door, but Jason is quicker and tackles him from behind, slamming him into the wall, and pinning an arm behind his back. Neither think about the fact that they would wake Katie.

Kyle winces, though is still laughing. "I'll print it out and give you a copy," he teases.

"No, you're going to delete it," Jason corrects, putting more pressure on Kyle's arm. "Right?''

"Ahh!" Kyle squirms, though finds it impossible to escape his taller adversary. "Alright, alright. I'll delete it. After I print it."

Close to you

*Listing to Jason Katie's heart goes out to her friend. She always had that soft spot for when she new Jason needed her. Listing to Jason Katie new he needed her. Throwing care into the wind She takes Jason's hand and pulls him up to stay. Scooting over on the bed, and smiles and nods next to her her other arm waiting to hold Jason.*

"I know your not going to think this is apropreate for friends to do, but I stop caring what people think and how they look at me. If they have a problem, they can talk to my face about it. Life is to short to worry about whatevery one alse thinks. Just take it as it comes, and worry about tomarrow, tomarrow. Its not like we are doing anything wrong."

*Katie smiles at Jason showing how sincear she was. Being int he accident, geting saved, being stuck in the hospetal, learning how to walk again and meeting her new friends and Con becoming sick showed Katie how short life can be, and how anything can change in an instine.
Katie keeps her voice quiet and soft.*

"Ya, the Con thing was hard. Probley even harder for you since you new him longer, but I know how it felt. Wasent to long ago you were that sick. Its a feeling I would hate to have to reply again anytime soon."

*Katie lets out a small sigh.*

"People get hurt sometimes Jason. We cant live in fear of that and let it run our lifes or we will be misrible. We cant all be hero's. Having friends and loved ones helps. Having a shoulder to lean and cry on. It helps lighten the load. Cuz with friends and the people we love they dont walk behind us, but next to us to help us carry our load."

*Jamie looks at Con worry in her eyes.*

"Ya I have some time Hun. Whats wrong? I am heading to TJY now why dont I take you and just have ya see Rick since he knows whats been going on with you?"

*Jamie A hand on Con's arm searching his eys for an answer to what was wrong.*

Doctor

Jason shakes his head numbly, no longer surprised by Katie sensing his stress. “No…I’m not okay.” He sighs deeply and raises his head to search for Katie’s eyes in the dark. “I will be though. Just a bad dream is all.”

He stands up and wanders to the window, looking out for several minutes, trying to settle his mind, though it doesn’t do much good. Tired, but unable to close his eyes again, lest the dream reoccur, instead of heading back for the bed, he aims for the chair.

Pulling it up close to Katie’s bed, he sits down and leans forward to use his arms as a pillow on the mattress next to her. Her closeness brings the comfort he knew it would…he couldn’t deny it that she was able to calm him when nothing else could. “I’m just scared of people getting hurt, ya know?” He keeps his voice quiet, glad for the darkness, though light would be coming soon. “I guess this thing with Con shook me up more than I thought.”


Con continues to mop up the milk as Jamie joins him. “Huh?” He looks up at her. “No, you don’t need to help, I was just clumsy.” He rolls his eyes. “I know, I know, Rick would have my hide if he knew I was up, but I feel a hundred and ten percent better than yesterday.”

Though tossing the wet paper towels into the trashcan, he remains on the floor, sitting up to lean back against the cupboards and sighs. He feels silly sitting here, and he has enough strength to get up, but he just doesn’t want to. There were so many questions now…so many variables… He had to know for sure though if his condition was permanent… “Jamie…” He keeps his eyes staring down. “Do you have time to take me to Doctor Bradley downtown?” He knows how strange the request is, as there’s no reason he shouldn’t see Rick, but he can’t…not this time…

What on Earth

*Katie's pulse quickens as she sits up in bed. She had just fallen asleep so wasent to deep. Instinly Katie's eyes ajust to the dark as she looks twords Jason's way. In a soft voice Katie whispers.*

"J...are you ok?"

*Jamie heads Con and enters the apt. Following the voice in the kitchen. Seeing Con on the floor she cant help but giggle.*

"Number one hun what are you doing out of bed, you need to rest and number two what are you doing."

*Jamie bends down to help Con clean up the little mes smiling at him.*

Spilled

Jason sits bolt upright in bed and stares into the dimply lit room. The nightmare had been so vivid…so real…

He rubs a hand over his face, trying to rid himself of the images. It had been a long time since he’d had a nightmare about current times, and those around him at TJY. Most likely, this episode with Con had brought it on, but knowing the origin didn’t help things any. Apart from his nightmares connected to his past, it was rare that he was tormented with imaginative violence towards his close friends.

Swinging his legs over the side of the bed, he rests his elbows on his knees to put his face in his hands, trying to wake up completely and move on from the dream.


Con grimaces as the carton of milk slips from his grasp and falls to the floor with a slosh and splat, spilling half the contents onto the tile. Muttering to himself he reaches for the paper towels. If Rick were here, he’d be telling him to get back in bed, but he really did feel fine, surprisingly enough. He was just apparently incapable of taking the milk out of the refrigerator without making a mess.

On his hands and knees, he's pretty sure he heard Jamie's voice, though mostly assumes since she's supposed to be stopping by. “Yeah, yeah, I’m in here,” he calls.

MOONLIGHT AGAIN!

*Katie smiles at Jason as the mention of leaving.*

"Good I cant wait to go home. I am so tired of being in here all the time. Its so boring, cept for the good company."

*Katie winks at Jason and smiles. As Jason lays down Katie turned the volume down on the tv and watches a movie for about an hour. Finally turning it off and shuting down the light. Katie turns on her side away from Jason to sleep but dosent feel right, she ends up turning twords him. Oping her eyes she studys Jason's face. The Moonlight shone in from the open window lighting up his face more than it already was from the smile. For a moment Katie watches Jason sleep in peace. Her own smile forming. Whispering Katie says.*

"Good Night my...Hotshot."

*Katie closes her eyes and drifts off to sleep.*

*Jamie squints her eyes as the sun shines through her blinds urging her to get up. With in munites Jamie is up starting Coffee and heading to the shower. Once she is squeeky clean and awake enough from coffee she heads out the door. Looking down at her watch she has an hour to wast before words and decieds it would be the best time to swing by and check on Con. A half hour pass and Jamie pulls into Con's driveway. Hoping out of the convertable Jamie jumps up the steps and knocks on the door oping it slightly and yelling in.*

"CON...ARE YOU DECENT?"

Disheartening Discovery

Luke just holds Angel for a long while before finally giving in and letting them both go to bed. They would tell the others in the morning about Con.


Still hyped about the band, Jason’s excitement is already there and now doubles with a dose of pride as Katie demonstrates her progress. “That’s awesome!” His smile widens and he reaches down to playfully rough up her hair. “I knew you could do it, Katie.” He catches her eye, conveying how proud he is of her, and how he shares in her excitement. He’d thought he’d lost her once…knowing that she will walk again means more to him than anything else.

“Oh, I almost forgot…” He flops down in the chair. “I talked to Laura. She said she rearranged the room on the first level for you, so whenever they release you from the hospital, it should be easy for you to get around. She’s also recruited me, Ty and Wyatt to build a ramp on the porch so stairs won’t be a problem.” Jason grins. “We’re all sick and tired of seeing you in the hospital, can you tell?”

He chuckles, then suddenly remembers that he never answered Katie’s original questions, and counts them off on his fingers. “Everything is average, Con is going to be okay – his fever finally broke, and most of the poison got out of his system by the time I’d left. I’m more tired than I’ll get out, but yes, I’ve been eating – Rick saw to that.” He takes a deep breath, grinning. “So on that note…I’m ready to hit the hay early.”

Jason throws Katie a weary grin. “I’d stay up a while, but I don’t think I’d be too good of company.” He rises from his chair to go take off his boots, before sinking into the other bed. He sighs contentedly and lies on his side, his face towards Katie. Random thoughts flow through his mind, and his voice is weary and quiet as his eyes fall shut. “Thanks, Katie…just for being you.”


Con drifts in an out of sleep, and by late evening is able to sit up and eat a little bit of supper, convincing Jamie that he will be fine overnight. Knowing she will stop by in the morning to check on him, he has no worries, and finally begins to sleep more soundly.

In the middle of the night, Con rises, managing to get himself up out of bed, his muscles seeming to be gaining back their strength. Turning to the hall though, he staggers just a little as a wave of dizziness hits him. He takes a moment to regain his balance and moves a little slower, too sleepy to think a whole lot of it, though can’t help but think it is strange.

By morning, Con’s body has done a complete turn-around, his immune system kicking back in to overtake his fatigue at a rapid pace. Though still somewhat tired, Con decides to get himself up out of bed, not used to spending a whole day in bed, let alone a second one. Making his way to the bathroom, he turns on the shower and lets the water run while he brushes his teeth. Turning his head, he frowns, thinking the water has suddenly stopped. Looking back at it though proves that the sound of the water is still there.

A little confused, Con turns his head again, this time paying more attention. He swallows hard as the sound of the water softens again. A sudden fear grips him as he listens intently, only now noticing that something is not right. Though scared to test it, he holds up his hand to snap his fingers by his left ear. Nothing. He hears the snap from his right ear, but his left receives not even a muffled noise.

The fear increases. Con finishes showering and throws on a t-shirt and old pair of jeans with holes in the knees, not even bothering to tuck in his shirt. Several more sound tests confirm that he is not hearing anything out of his left ear. This couldn’t be happening.

Con deserts his bedroom and slowly goes downstairs, taking his time as just a little dizziness lingers. He tried to tell himself that this was just temporary, but something in his gut warned him that it was not. He’d injured his inner ear once before…the infection may very well have been the last straw.

Heading into the kitchen, he looks at the clock, noting that Jamie should be here soon. Should he tell her? Should he tell anyone? There would be so many consequences to this, that he didn’t even want to think about it. Within twenty-four hours, his future was suddenly on the line and he knew it.

Wiggle

*As Luke draws Angel close her smile widens. Luke holding her felt like everything was ok, and there were better day to come. It reminded Angel why she became a docter.*

"Oh Luke, I love you too. With all my heart."

*Angel hugs Luke again. Her heart content.*

*As Kaite feels lifter off her bed for a moment she is shocked but than starts to laugh she Jason and her spin in circles. As the stop spinning Katie can feel the tad bit of embaressment Jason is feeling and just shakes her head smiling trying not to comment on it and make it worse for him. Seeing the happyness is Jason's eyes was a wondeful thing. It was the spark Jason was missing, the fire that had been yurning to come out. Katie was so very happy for him.

"Oh J....I am so happy and excited for you. This is wondeful."

*Katie stairs back into Jason's eyes as she smiles. Her own happyness showing."

"My best friend a rock star..."

*Katie lets out a giggle.*

"I'll be at every concert for you Jason. Keeping a watchfull eye. If Reese wants me to prove myself to him I will, and he can know I will walk again. This is going to be so much fun J."

*As if remembering something Katie gets alittle bit more excited.*

"J put me down on the side of the bed for a moment and watch."

*After Jason puts her down on the side of the bed Katie bends down to take her sock off. Stairing at her foot it looks like she is consintrating very harm finally her toes wiggle very so slightly. Katie looks back up at Jason and beams.*

"Its not much but its a start and more than I could do a week ago. While I was at lunch today I was siting listing to Mable talk and I did it. I think I did it the morning to I just dident pay much attachen to it. Than when I got home I did it again and I relized what I had done. Its happing J, slowly but I am starting to get movement back."

*Jamies heart starts to race again as Con takes her hand. Seeing the grin on his face and the smile in his eyes Jamie knows he does remember what happend yesterday. A smile forms itself on her lip and she sits gazing at Con. In a soft voice she replys.*

"I'm glad I was able to be here Con and help. You mean alot to me. I woulent give up taking care of you for anything."

*Jamie grows silent as she watches Con fight to stay awake. No more words needed to be said right now, Jamie just sat holding Con's hand, leting him know she was still there for him if he needed her. As hard as Jamie trys she cant take her eyes off Con. Studing his face, his eyes, everything as if drawing a mental picture in her mind. Jamie's smile never fades, how happy she was.*

Excitement

Luke breathes a sigh of relief, knowing that Con will be okay. He looks at Angel with compassion, knowing how hard things like this must be for her. But loving her all the more for her own mercy on others.

Scooting his chair out a little ways, he takes both of Angel's hand to draw her up out of her chair and pull her onto his lap, wrapping his arms around her. "I love you, ya know that?" He plants a kiss on her forehead. "The world needs more people like you."


Jason blinks as he walks to Katie's bed, and catches her barrage of questions and opens his mouth to answer her, but her next statement throws everything else out the window, if only for a few moments. He stares at her, his eyes beginning to widen. JetStream had said yes? They'd really said yes? He'd be able to sing and play with them? He'd hardly dared to hope at all, knowing that it was near an impossibility.

The news sends a new surge of excitement into his veins as he experiences a burst of enthusiasm. It's been so long since he's been able to be this happy about anything. It wasn't going to be easy, but he was finally able to get at least a small taste of his dreams.

A huge smile breaks forth, his eyes dancing with anticipation, his tiredness from the day forgotten. Without even thinking, he lets out a whoop, and reaches down to scoop Katie up out of her bed, spinning around in several circles. "They said yes! They really said yes!" He can't help but laugh. "I'm going to be a part of JetStream, can you believe it?!"

As he stops spinning, he suddenly realizes what he'd just done, and a bit of redness creeps into his face. He stares Katie in the eye, his happiness spilling over, with just a slight bit of embarrassment for his over-enthusiasm. But instead of letting any awkwardness take over, he simply holds her closer in a big hug. "And don't think for a minute that I'm going to let Reese take you off duty from me, 'cause I want you at those concerts."


Con sees a brief look of disappointment pass through Jamie's eyes, and he studies her face, not paying that much attention to her words. He knows what she's thinking, and seeing that proved that her being with him the evening before had not been on a whim...her feeling still existed today.

Though tired, a small grin plays at his mouth, and he reaches out to take Jamie's hand in his. "Being flat on the ground wasn't so great for me either," he teases quietly. "I'm glad you're here though... I wouldn't want anyone else..."

Till your ok

*As the night falls and all is quiet at the ranch Angel finally make sit home. Stoping at her office Angel puts her stuff downand places the small vial of Con's blood in her sample fridge. Later she would come back to it and test it. This was the second time they saw this poison, there had to be a way to combat it or find out where it was from. Leaving her office again Angel see a small light on in the messhall and a familure form pass in front of the window. Angel makes her way over, enjoying the night air. She hadent been gone long but how she missed it. If her and Luke ever moved she hoped they would at least stay in the country. Once inside the mess hall a smile cross Angel's face as she see Luke siting at the small table. Going over to him, she bends down and throws her arms around his neck huging him tight.*

"I missed you so much Luke."

*Angel lingers huging Luke a bit longer than draws away and sits down next to him.*

"Con is gonna be ok. Ya know Luke, I spend all day around sick people and people who are dieing, but non of them hurt as much as seeing a friend or family member in the brink of death. You would think I was use to it and all. But alas I am not. It helps he relize though each time what I really have and how much I love it ever so much."

*Angel smiles at Luke gazing into his eyes feeling lost in them.*

*Katie smiles and looks up as Jason enters the room. He looked so tired maybe she should wait to tell him about Jetstream and tell him in the morning. It was night now and the moon was bigger and brighter than ever. Glancing out the window fast Katie gives a small sigh than turns her attachen back to Jason.*

"Hey you. How is everything? How is Con? He gonna be ok? How about you how are you? Have you been eating today?"

*Stoping for a moment Katie relizes she just asked Jason a million questions at once.. Blushing alittle she sits up strater.*

"Sorry...I just havent see you all day and whatnot...bah I dont know what I am trying to say."

*Once again Katie changes her mind and cant hold it in anylonger just blurting it out.*

"JETSTREAM SAID YES YOUR IN JASON."

*Katie beams from her hospetal bed the moonlight reflecting off her face.*

*Jamie sets the waterglass back down on the night stand befor giving Con a bref run down of what happend.*

"Ya Angel was here. You were pritty bad of So Katie sujested seeing if she could come to help out since she was there when Jason was pritty bad off. I think Rick was glad to have another set of eyes around."

*Jamie stops and thinks for a moment. It seems as though Con dosent remember anything that happend. Does that mean he dosent remember saying he was falling in love with Jamie, or the kiss. Jamies heart grows heavy but she stuffs the feelings away. This was no time to feel sad. Maybe he dident mean what he said and was just so out of it HE dident know what he was feeling. Oh well. Jamie lets a long drawn out sigh out.*

"I'll probley stay till your up and able to move around. Right now you need to stay in bed and rest. Your body has been though alot and needs to recoop. Pluse Rick asked me to keep and eye on you, and I dont want to leave still I know your ok this time. Coming back over this morning and finding you laying flat on your face was not a good feeling."

Memorable

Jason makes his rounds at TJY, reporting to Reese and talking to Laura. He reassures her that Con is going to be okay, and suggests she wait until the next day to see him as he needs his rest.

Finished with as much work as he can get done for the day, he heads back to the hospital, weary from the events.

Arriving at Katie’s room, he knocks quietly and enters, a tired smile creasing his lips. “Hey, Hero.”


While the others disperse after supper, Luke remains in the quiet mess hall, waiting for Angel to return.


“So, did you have fun today?” Phil flops down in the couch and flips on the tv.

Kyle turns in the easy chair, pausing his writing. “Mm-hmm.”

“Anything special?”

“Just lunch at Mom and Pop’s, then back here to clean up.”

“Talk much about the band?”

“No…I told her she could tell Jason though. He’d been busy all day with their friend, so I figured he had enough on his mind.”

Phil turns his attention to his brother, sensing something just a little out of the ordinary. “Anything else?”

Kyle quirks an eyebrow at him. “Should there be?”

“I don’t know…” Phil shrugs. “You’ve been quiet since I got home. That’s an abnormality.”

A wide grin forms, and Kyle shakes his head. “Just thinking, Bro… just thinking.”

“Anything you care to share?”

“Nope.” Kyle turns his attention back to his notepad, still grinning. “I think I like my thoughts right where they are.” …nice and neat and perfect and memorable…


Con accepts the glass of water and takes a few swallows before setting it back down again on the night stand. He scrunches his eyes shut tight, then opens them again, still trying to rid himself of the mental fog. “I feel like I’ve slept for a year and I’m still tired.”

Pausing, he furrows his brow. “What all happened, anyway? I remember getting sick yesterday…and you were here last night…I think…right? Then Rick was here today and Angel too? Either that or I had some major hallucinations.”

He shakes his head at her question. “I’m almost hungry, but not enough to want anything right now. Thanks though…. How long are you staying?”

Running

*Angel nods and soon is on her way home. It was nice to get home but she wasent a city girl. Her heart lived in the country. Not to mention she missed Luke even though its only been a day.*

*Katie smiles at she holds Kyles gaze befor leaving. Looking at her watch Katie knows Jason will be back soon its almost dinner. Katie replys everything in her mind how excited she was Jetstream had decieded to let Jaosn be part of them. He was going to be so excited. Katies mind than drifts to Kyls and the kiss. Looking out the window Katie replys Kyles words in her mind “I definitely like complicated.” Katie couldent shake his words. What was running though his head? What was running thought Katie's head when she kissed him. Did she scair him off, would he be back. As Katie watches the differnt colors in the sky dance around Katie closes her eyes and rests alittle before Jason gets back.*

*As Jamie hears Con call to her she shuts the small TV in the bedroom off and and goes over to the side of Con's bed siting down and smileing.*

"Hey there Sweety. How are you feeling?"

*Jamie hands a glass of water to Con for him to drink some.*

"Can I do anything for you?"

Evening

Kyle laughs. “I know you hate to go back to the hospital, but unfortunately, if I take you to my place, I think I’d probably wind up getting nothing done with a pretty distraction such as you around.” His grin persists as he stands from the table. “Come on. I’ll get you back safe and sound, lest that nurse come after me.”

He leaves money for the meal on the table, and waves to Mable and Herb as they leave. Helping Katie into the truck, in no time they’re on their way back, then finally back in Katie’s room. As she gets settled, Kyle lingers. “I’m guessing that Jason is busy with this friend of yours, so the guys and I won’t bother him now with a call. You can tell him of our decision if you want though, then we can all get together and discuss the details here this week sometime.”

Kyle lets his gaze remain on Katie for several moments before turning to leave. “Later, KT. We’ll talk about that payment for your picture…” He leaves, his voice trailing behind him.


With Con finally sleeping soundly for several hours without a fever returning, Rick makes the judgment call to leave him be. Packing up his bag, he looks at the others. “Jason, I guess you can get back to work…I’ll be along shortly, so you can go ahead and give Reese a report, and Laura too. Angel…I can’t thank you enough for your help. I’m not sure we would have gotten through this had Katie not suggested you come. Before anyone finds out you’ve been here, I can take you on to the airport and get you on back to Texas, so you can be home later this evening.” He turns to Jamie. “And Jamie…if you wouldn’t mind sticking around here for a little while? Give me a call in a couple hours at TJY to let me know how Con is doing, or sooner if anything changes?”

Settled with the plans, Jason heads out, and Rick follows, ensuring that Angel is behind him, to take her to the airport.


The afternoon grows long, and the sun begins to sink lower in the sky. Evening descends upon the Nevada day, bringing a brilliant sunset’s display that scatters a million colors across the sky.

After hours of sleep, Con finally stirs, rolling over on his back, and forcing his eyes partway open. He furrows his brow, trying to bring things into focus, trying to remember why he’s here and what all has happened. Feeling too warm, he kicks off half the covers and rubs his face with his hand, wincing a little at the dull throbbing in his ear. Blinking, he starts to bring the room into focus, and realizes that there are people missing now. “Jamie?”

...

*Katie beams, the light from outside lighting up her face. The color, the life returning.*

"I can help if you want?"

*Katie cant help but laugh as she beams.*

"Now I sound despret but I just hate going back to the hospetal...cant wait to get out of there."

*Jamies smiles and draws back from her hug smilng at Con.*

"Oh corse you wont be Con. Just rest now, you need it. I'll be right here for you Con. I wont leave."

Not now

Kyle looks up, suddenly seeing Katie inches from his face. Searching her eyes he can see the immediate future and he doesn’t resist. Tilting his head, he allows Katie close, a chill running down his spine as her lips press against his. He allows the kiss to last as long as she remains, drawing back only when she pulls away. Seeing the redness in her cheeks, a grin quirks the corner of his mouth and he looks between her eyes, silent laughter erupting through his gaze. “I definitely like complicated.”

Finally looking down, the smile finally comes. “Well, whadya know…” he reaches down and holds up his finger, a contact lens resting on it. “Viola! Next time I lose my contact I should just call you. This method seems to work.”

Throwing her a wink, he gets up off the floor and gives her a hand back up into her chair. Grimacing, he takes his other contact out and puts them both in the small case to clean. Reaching in his shirt pocket he pulls out his glasses to wear instead. “Alright. So… lunch is finished, we’ve had our desert, and Phil is going to kill me if I don’t have the living room cleaned up by the time he gets home from work.”


Con is teetering on the edge of sleep, too weak to move, though he responds to Jamie’s touch. “I ain’t going anywhere,” he whispers back, his eyes still closed. “I can’t…not now…”

OMG

*Katie smiles at Kyle thinking for a long moment trying to decied what to ask from Jetstream for the work on the picture.*

"Mmmm....how about another date with you? I think that would be a nice payment."

*Katie gets a sheepish grin on her face her cheeks still alittle red. As Kyle disapears under the table Katie quirks an eyeborw and cant help laughing trying to look under the table herself.*

"Kyle....Kyle where did you go...follow the light follow the light."

*Katie cant help herself but use her arms and climb under the table with Kyle looking for his contact. Using her hands to feel around on the ground.*

"I dont see it captin...I DONT SEE IT."

*Without relizing it Katie and Kyle comes face to face. Stairing deep into Kyle's eyes watching them twinkle Katie cant hold back any longer, leaning in her heart starts to race as she can feel her face turning a bit red. Closing her eyes her head races even faster as she shakes just alittle bit. Finally her lips meet Kyles, pressing aganst them. Katie lingers, how his kiss tasted as sweet as Honey. Katie dident want to let go she felt lost in time and space. Before she knows he she is pulling away....shocked in herself at what she just did she cant take her eyes off Kyles.*

*Mable and Herb watch from the kitchen. It was always nice to see people happy. Most of all those who deserve it. Yet something was missing. Who new what, but something.*

*After everyone leaves the room Jamies comes over and sits on the bed again. Whispering..*

"Oh Con, What would I have done if I lost you."

*Jamie wraps her arms around Con and hugs him softly.*

Contact

Kyle can’t help the grin that curls the corners of his mouth. His eyes narrow slightly as he listens to Katie, taking in every word, and feeling her emotions. “You’ve got a big heart, Katie…don’t let anyone ever tell you otherwise.”

The slight smile still on his lips, he allows her the upper hand by dropping his gaze first as he polishes off his chicken. “Bodyguard KT…I like it. Maybe we’ll make you a permanent part of the band yet.” He throws her a wink. “Speaking of which, JetStream owes you for that picture. I’m going to scan it and use it on our announcement flyers for events. What do you want for the hours you worked on it?”

Without warning, he drops his fork to clatter on his plate, squinting his left eye. “Oh, oh, oh!” He takes his hand to cover his eye, wincing in pain. “Eyelash!” Leaning to the side away from the table, he continues to squint. “Ahh!” Finally looking up, his eye is tearing, and he blinks and winces. “Oh, sheesh.” Bending over to stare at the floor he fights for several moments before stopping suddenly. “Uh-oh.” He glances back up to Katie, his eye already bloodshot and watery. “I just lost my contact on the floor. Could I not be any more stupid than that?” Sighing, he disappears as he goes onto his hands and knees on the floor. “If I’m not back in ten minutes, call for help,” he calls from under the table.


Con’s stomach convulsions continue for the next fifteen minutes, finally not having anything left to get out. He’s so weak from the episode that Rick has to hold him up before making sure he’s through. “Hey, Con, you’re gonna be all right. Just take it easy.” Ensuring that his body has ceased the convulsions, he summons Jason’s help again. “Let’s get you back in bed before you pass out in here.”

Rick and Jason make it back to the bedroom, Con dragging his feet, trying to support his own weight, but finding it impossible, his legs feeling like spaghetti.

Once he’s back into his bed, Rick checks his eyes again, having Angel check his vitals one more time. Wondering how responsive Con is, he holds up his hand. “How many fingers am I holding up, Con?”

Con’s eyes are halfway open and a slight scoffing laugh comes out. “Three and a thumb,” he manages hoarsely. “Just because I puked my guts out doesn’t mean I went blind.”

Rick starts to grin and he looks over at Angel. “By golly, I think we might have licked this thing.”

Con lets his eyes drift shut again, finally giving in. Somehow, he knows…the fight is over. “Quit fussing over me,” he whispers.

Rick chuckles and shakes his head. He rolls his eyes and puts away some things in his bag. “We’re not out of the woods yet, but I’m going downstairs to get some fresh air and make some coffee.”

Jason nods and starts to follow him. “I gotta make some calls and let Laura know what’s going on.” He glances back over his shoulder at Jamie, question lingering in his eyes, but he says nothing, and follows Rick out of the room.

"Body" Guard!

*Jamie still sits at Con's bedside, his hand in hers. It was only recent they has confessed there love for eachother but they had been friends for so many years. Litterly growing up together. The rooms is quiet and gloomy as everyone sits and waits. Con was to strong to give up, he couldent. If not for her sake, than for Jason, Austin, and Laura. Jamie couldent even imagen what this world would be like without Con there, Jamies mind reels back to when they were in the car and Con faked the kiss. Than bouncing to the real thing. It had taken Jamie by saprise but it was still the sofest thing she ever felt. Leaning her hand down on Con's arm she holds it. If anything leting Con know he is not alone.*

*Angel nods to Rick. Grabing a saringe from her bag she draws a bit of blood than grabe her microscops and a few other things.*

"I'm gonna go take a look at this and see if I can figure anything more out. Let me know if anything changes with Con. I'll be back up soon to check on him."

*Angel heads out of the room with the small vial. Finding a quiet courner of Con's table to work.*

*Katie grins as her cheeks turn a slight shade of pink. Oh how Kyle was a flirt. It please that Kyle seemed intrested in her work and not scaired away by it. Thats not what many people would feel. Most would be intimanated with Katie.*

"Well I would have to say more time spend with you would be a good thing."

*Katie eyes sparkle as looks into Kyles. Finally looking away and thinking about Con.*

"Well, I am sure everyone at TJY knows about Con now and Everyone back in Texas since Angel is here but other than that no one alse knows. Its hard sometimes we cant always run to the hospetal and get help, they will ask to many questions and thats no good. Thats Rick, Angel they have to be the best. But even being the best isent enough when you dont have the right tools to go along with it. I always though about raising money for Angel, and even Rick and try to get some better equipment for them. I just wouldent know where to start ya know."

*Katie looks at Kyle again this time not being able to look away. How she liked spending time with him. She felt so comfortable, like she new him all her life and nothing she would say could change how he looked at her. His eyes, His smile....everying fit him well. His voice like music to Katie's ears bringing a calming over her.*

*As Angel hears the comotion upstairs she runs faster than ever before and heads for the bathroom. Seeing Con throwing up Angel gives a small smile siting on the side of the tub she rubs Con's back.*

"Thats it Con. Let it all out. This will be over soon."

*Angel continues to sooth Con and she looks at Rick.*

" This is his body's way to geting rid of the infection, and anything alse in his system. The crackers wernt the only thin he had to eat remember yesterday Jamie said she gave him soup, that could of been siting in his tummy."

*Angel puts her wrist to Con forhead, and check his pulse.*

"His vitles are ok. If he dosent stop within the hour than we should worry I think."

*As Con starts to throw up Jamie jumps up off the bed leting Jason and Rick take Con to the bathroom. Working fast Jamie changes the sheets and pillow cases laying down fresh crisp linen. Slowly Jamie sits down in a chair in the badroom and waits leaning her head aganst the wall.*

Getting it out

Rick agrees with Angel, and sends Jason downstairs to get some crackers and water to see if they can get anything into Con.

When Jason returns minutes later, they get Con to sit up just a little, and try to feed him. Con would have resisted, had he not been too weak to fight, and lamely accepts the help, eating and drinking just a little. Finally tired of trying though, he wants to take no more, and Rick relents, not wanting to rile him up any more.

Con sinks down under his blankets, losing his any amount of alertness as a state of sleep takes over his mind, while his body’s battle rages.

Jason takes to a chair in the corner, keeping his eyes on his friend, finally his emotions beginning to stir. Though he may have never accepted people’s friendships in past years, looking back, he knew now that Con had done his best to be a friend to Jason. No matter what, he’d always been there, whether he’d been keeping Jason out of trouble, or trying to get him to have fun apart from work…Con had come to mean a lot to Jason, and seeing him in this state now was enough to bother him.

He thought back to telling Laura earlier what was happening. She’d immediately wanted to come, but Jason had insisted she stay at work, not wanting her to get even more upset at seeing Con this way. The look on her face had been pure fear…she and her brother were close, and Jason knew that Laura would not handle it well if she lost him.

Sighing, Jason leans down to rest his face in his hands. For the first time in a long time, he felt alone. There were others here…but Con was failing, Laura was back at TJY, Austin was in Texas……and Katie was with Kyle.

A tap on his shoulder startles him and he looks up to see Rick holding an apple out to him. “If you think I forgot about you, you’re crazy. Don’t make me have to look after you too.”

Jason offers a wry grin and accepts the apple. “Thanks.”

“Yeah.” Rick sighs and looks around the room, grabbing yet another blanket to throw over Con, then moves to the thermostat. “Angel, it’s worth a try. I can’t think of much else, and maybe sweating it out of him will work.”


Clint wanders from the garage as he takes a break, and wipes his greasy hands on a rag. He looks around the ranch yard, noting the quietness. It had seemed that ways since Angel had left, with the news of Con. …Con had really become part of the ranch after spending so much time there, so it wasn’t surprising that most here were concerned for him.

It was almost strange to Clint though…he saw so many people sitting alone or together, quiet…he knew they were praying. He’d even seen Mick in the barn with his head bowed in silence… his own uncle, of all people. Clint had been genuinely impressed with the changed he’d seen in Mick since he’d accepted Jesus. He still remembered seeing Mick be baptized, and could still feel the slight confusion, though he hadn’t dared to ask anyone any questions yet. Not long ago, Clint would have thought the whole thing was silly…but he couldn’t deny that his uncle had truly changed…and that was enough to make him wonder if there really was something to this God thing after all.

Clint passes the mess hall, glancing in the window to see Jeff and Eric at one of the tables with their heads bowed. How their behavior intrigued him.

While prayers in Texas are lifted up, so too in Nevada. Laura rests her head on her arms atop her desk, the tears silently streaming down her face. No matter how Jason had tried not to make her worry, she had seen that look in his eyes…she knew that this was a life or death situation, and she feared the worst. Her mind tried to imagine what it would be like if she lost her brother, but she blocks the images, too frightened to think of them. She couldn’t lose Con…he was her stability…he always had been. “Dear God…please heal him… There’s so much more he can do… Don’t take him away from us…not now, not like this…please… Only You can heal him…”


Kyle smiles a little as he listens to Katie while they receive their food. “Sounds like a neat bunch of people. Must be hard, never knowing what’s around the bend, working at a place like TJY.”

He takes a bite of chicken. “Mmm…you were right. This is good.” He gestures casually with his fork. “So…you said earlier that Con was poisoned…do other people know about it, or do you keep something like that under wraps?”
He shrugs. “I think it’s cool what you do…being a bodyguard and all. And besides that…” He lifts his eyes as they twinkle with a bit of mischief. “…If Jason wants you along when JetStream plays, then I’ll get to spend more time with you.”


Con’s eyes fly open. He’s drenched in sweat, the temperature in the room very warm, and the blankets acting to intensify the heat. He feels like he’s received a kick to the gut, and doubles over in pain, wincing against the sudden lurch to his stomach.

Rick is on his feet and next to him in an instant. “Con…what is it?”

Con doesn’t respond, but can’t hold down the little food he was given earlier as his stomach revolts, throwing it up.

“Aw great.” Rick throws back Con’s bedsheets, taking hold of him. “Jason, help me get him up and into the bathroom NOW. Jamie, strip his bed and get some clean sheets in here.”

They barely get Con to the bathroom in time before Con’s stomach lets go again. He slumps to the floor as Rick holds his head, patiently waiting for the next violent surge.

Rick’s mind reels. “I don’t understand…food shouldn’t have bothered him, and besides that, he hasn’t had enough for all this.” He grows more concerned as Con continues to vomit. He puts a hand to Con’s forehead, raising his eyebrows slightly. “I don’t think he’s got a fever anymore though…Angel, that cold bath and following heat must have done the trick as far as that goes…” He thinks for a moment and glances up to her. “Could it be that after his fever broke, his system is now flushing itself out?” He frowns as Con’s convulsions continue. “Even if that’s it though, he can’t take much more of this.”