Give alittle take alittle

*Jamie smiles up at and nods.*

"I was thinking of going to texas in a week or so. I dont want to much time to pass without them knowing. If you want Con you can come too. Maybe this is the getaway you need?"

*Nate leans aganst the wall listing to Jason and Carson. Studing Carson he trys he best to read where he is coming from. They were geting no where and Jason was losing his cool. They couldent have that. They needed to give alittle to get alittel. Nate had been through enough cased here and in Cali to know how to read people. Or so he though. Pushing himself off the wall he looks at Jason.*

"Go get Misty.."

*Seeing Jason's mouth move alittle bit Nate cuts him off holding up a hand.*

"Just go get Misty please Jason."

*After Jason leaves Nate moves to a small table and pours a glass of water handng it to Carson. Turning again Nate throws a full pack of smokes on the table.*

"So Carson you have your water, your smokes, your gonna have Misty in a moment, now you have all you want what about giving us alittle of what we want Carson? Thats the way this works, give alittle take alittle. You give us nothing we take what you want away!"

Resistance

Con's eyes widen at Jamie's explanation. "BJ's Sam's son? That means...he's Mick's nephew...wow...and Damien..." The wheels in his mind start to turn. "This is gonna be quite something to explain to them. Not that they haven't been through this before, but....." He tilts her head up by placing a finger under her chin. "It'll be fine though...and you'll do just fine. You care too much not to do it."


Jason tightens his jaw, but submits to Nate and ceases his arguing.

As Carson is pushed forward, he glances over his shoulder at Misty. "Oh yeah, this'll be fun alright. I'm sure I'll be dying to do it again."

They reach the room, and Jason gives Carson an extra shove through the door. "Have a seat. I have a feeling we're gonna be here a while."

Carson does as he's told, leaning back casually, his body language conveying his arrogance.

Jason grabs a seat across the table next to where Nate will sit. "Why don't we start from the beginning?" He opens up the file Reese had given him. "Looks like you've been plenty active the last few years."

Though surprised they have any information on him, Carson remains unmoved and simply shrugs. "Yeah, sure."

"How long have you been with the Agency?"

"Long enough."

Jason frowns at him. "How long?"

Carson quirks a cocky grin. "Can I get something to drink?"

"Later." Jason points to the papers. "How long, Carson?"

"Been around them for about fourteen years."

Jason starts taking notes. "You been in on the case out in Texas?"

"Maybe."

Jason looks up at him once more, his glare returning. "Don't make this more difficult than it needs to be."

Carson tilts his chair back on it's legs, rocking back and forth. "Can I have that smoke yet?"

Jason glances over to Nate with annoyance. "What happened?" He turns back to Carson. "I thought you were willing to work with us here."

Carson shrugs. "Maybe I decided there was more in this for me than I was bargaining for."

"You don't have a whole lot to bargain with."

"Look, the Agency is going to be after me." Carson's eyes narrow and he lets the chair drop back down on all fours. "They're gonna be looking to kill me. Now are you willing to give me protection?"

"Last I knew, you didn't care if you died."

"So I changed my mind."

Jason fiddles with his pencil. "We'll do what we can. Now elaborate on your dealings with the Agency."

Carson crosses his arms. "I want Misty in here."

"What?" Jason looks at him in amazement. "Come on here, Carson! This isn't a game!"

"Misty," Carson repeats.

"No." Jason shakes his head. "First off, this is not her job. Second, Reese would not approve. Third, I don't like the way you treat women."

"Then I'm not talking."

Jason rolls his eyes, slamming his folder shut. "What? She gonna bat her eyes and talk sweet to you so you'll be willing to talk or what? Don't give me this line, Carson. We're not playing it your way."

"Then how about Jamie?"

Jason is on his feet so fast, that his chair gets knocked over. He leans forward, his palms on the table to get closer to Carson, his eyes blazing. "You get ten yards from that woman in this building and I'll be on you so fast it'll make your head swim."

Carson doesn't even flinch. "Then I'm not talking."

"Dang it, Carson!" Jason slams his fist on the table.

"How bad you want this information?" Carson taunts. "To what lengths are you willing to go to get it?"

"You're not getting Misty, and you're most certainly not getting Jamie. I'll take you on with my bare hands if I have to, but you can bet this entire department will be behind me."

"I can't get a drink, I can't have a smoke..." Carson counts things off on his fingers. "I can't have Misty in here, I can't see Jamie...why am I even here?"

"Because we're letting you live!"

"Then why not throw me in the cell and lock me up to starve?"

Jason throws up his arms in disgust and turns to pace the corner. He throws Nate a look. "This is ridiculous. He's all yours."

...

*Jamie lifts hear head so Con can hear her better but keeps it resting on Con’s chest.*

“Yes I think that’s what she said his name was BJ. She droped him off at the ranch to keep him and to be with his family. BJ was Sam’s son but no one new that. The Agency told her not to tell. Sam’s triplet brother and sister are there at the Ranch too. Annie and Mick I think she said there names were.”

*Jamie stops for a moment trying to remember everything Sam had said to her even though it was painful. Stuff was still a blur but she tried her best to relay to Con what she remembered.*

“...She said her ex-hudband was at the next ranch over as well. Damien his name was. But he dosent remember any of it. The Agency whiped his mind of Sam and BJ. Mostly the reson Sam worked for The Agency was so they wouldent kill BJ. I guess BJ is a genisus or something. The key to everything she has said. But I dont remember what she ment by it. Sam asked me if she dident make it out if I would go to Texas and let them know her story. But I don’t think I can Con. How can I look at those people and tell them someone they don’t even know is dead. I don’t know what to do Con. That on top of everything alse in my mind.”

*Jamie lets out a long tired sigh.*

*Misty smerks at Carson trying her best to keep a straght face.*

"I guess I had my mind alse where lastnight that I guess forgot. The rain wasent that cold anyways."

*Misty eyes stayed locked on Carson as Jason and Nate talk.

Nate turns his head as Jason trots over. His mind still wondering about Misty and Carson. If they couldent get him to talk Could she? Could they use her to get in information they needed. Nate's mind snaps back out of the day dream as Jason and Carson start arguing back and forth. Nate shakes his head.*

*Misty cant help but pipup as Jason's thret.*

"How about we dont kill anyone. I hate to have to clean up the mess ."

*Nate knows at this point in time it was time to intervien and get this show on the road. before heads started to roll.*

"Thats enough you two. Carson you have a smoke while we get our answers ok. Jason keep that temper in check or I'll have Reese get Wyatt to help me. As for you..."

*Nate looks at Misty his eyes growing a bit dark was she helping or hindering he dident know but Carson was deffintly differnt when she was around.*

"...how about you pick up those files you droped and let us go our job. Lets go."

*Nate looks back to Jason and gives Carson alittle nudge to keep moving heading twords the intaragation room.

Misty bends down to pick up her files looks up at Carson before he leaves smiling.*

"Have fun."

*Standing again she heads off weaving in and out of the cubicles till she finally disapears.*

Clash

Con holds Jamie closer, trying to comfort her, but feeling helpless. He frowns a little at Jamie's reference to Sam. She'd mentioned that once before, but everything had been so chaotic that Con hadn't dwelt on it, nor had he asked about it later. "Sam? What little boy? You mean BJ? What are you talking about?"


Carson stops as Misty runs into Nate, and lifts an eyebrow slightly. As she flashes him a smile, one of his own plays with the corner of his mouth, though he doesn't let it come out. He allows her to see life within his eyes for a fleeting moment, before pulling down the veil again to hide what lies beneath. "Not too smart running out of here without your jacket last night into that storm, though I see you didn't catch your death of cold."

He searches her face, ignoring Nate's own observing glances. What was going on inside that keen mind of hers? Why did he have the desire to spend time with her? He'd never felt that way about a woman before. He'd had plenty of other things on his mind, but never had he simply wanted to talk...to sit...to delve into the mind. What had she done to him?


"Sorry I'm late." Jason trots down the hall, ignoring the fact that all his rushing around that morning had put too much strain on his knee. He nods to Nate. "Reese pointed me in this direction. I'm ready when you are."

Carson stalls. "Come on and at least give a guy a smoke before tearing into him, will ya?"

Jason rolls his eyes. "I don't think you're in a position to be asking for anything right now."

"No?" Carson gives Jason a once over. "Looks to me like you want something from me, not the other way around." Five minutes earlier, he'd been pretty workable, but now he let his manipulative thoughts from the night before take over. "If you want answers from me, you're gonna have to do more than give me that stare of death."

Jason grits his teeth. "I should have killed you when I had the chance."

Carson shrugs. "You got the chance now. Go for it."

Both men lock eyes, neither willing to break the stare first.

Nightmars

*Katie’s eyes widen alittle bit as Jason fumbles around. He’s never seen him so disoriented. She couldn’t help but chuckle as Ran out the door.*

“See ya later”

*Jamie wraps her arms around Con as he told how. How she felt so comfortable in his arms and how silly she felt to being having these nightmares and making him run to her.*

“It was another nightmare. I could taste the blood again, and feel the pain. It hurt so much Con. Than I herd a noise and even though my eyes were closed I though I saw a shadow and it just frightened me. I’m sorry if I scaired you guys. I just don’t know what to do Con. I’m scaired in my own house. I cant take it. Its driving me crazy.”

*Jamie’s mind goes back to Sam. Tears starts to flow from Jamies eyes. She had promised her friend she would go let him family know her story, but it was so hard and it hurt so much.*

" Oh Con, I was thinking about Sam too. Her family dosent even know. And they dont even know that the little boy they have at the ranch is related to him. I feel so bad. I wish she was still alive so she could go tell them. Why do people have to die Con and get hurt. Its just no fair."

*Jamie burys her face into Con's chest as he holds her.*

*Nate shakes his head at Carson respons. He should of known better than to have asked. Throwing the jacket over her arm he goes along side Carson.*

"Grab your coffee and Sandwatch. I'm taking to you to the intarragation room. Jason and I have some questions for you."

*Nate escortes Carson from the room and down the long hall finally making it to the office floor. *

*Misty picks up some files she was looking at and heads out the door running smack dab into Nate droping the files all over the place.*

"Oh man I am so sorry, I dident..."

*Misty words trail off as she looks up and see Carson. A sassy little smile playsat her lips.*

"Good Morning."

*Nate looks from Carson to Misty, back to Carson again. What on earth was going on with those too. Nate could tell since Carson had met Misty something was differnt about him. His dull eyes had some lite shinning in them now, but Nate dident understand how this woman could show no fear of Carson. She reaches into the darkness and found hope. Maybe if anyone was going to help Carson it would be her. Steping twords Misty he makes only a small gap between then and hands her, her coat.*

"Next time, maybe sure you clean up after yourself."

*Misty takes her coat alittle shocked Nate isent yelling at her and wonders if he is going to tell Reese or not.*

"Thank you."

*Misty's eyes return to Carson's not being able to help the sassy smile returning to her face.*

*Nate rolls his eyes again.*

Late

Jason's eyes fly open and he stares into the sunlit room. "Oh, no." He glances at his watch. The beeping alarm had not woken him. "Crap."

Rolling out of bed so quickly he almost trips and falls, stumbling towards his bag, grabbing some clothes and skidding into the bathroom. Within five minutes he's out again, throwing on his shoes, not even bothering to run a comb through his hair. His foot up on a chair as he laces it up, he talks to Katie. "I'm heading out. I'm late. If Reese calls, I'm on my way."

Snatching up his jacket and gloves, he gives Katie a little wave and hurries out the door, bumping the doorframe as he goes.


Laura jumps, sitting up straight in the living room chair, her blanket falling off. Her eyes go right to the couch where Con is lying on his right side, sleeping. "Con! Jamie..." Laura gets up, and shakes him. "Con!"

Con is startled and sits up quickly, trying to bring himself out of the sleepy fog. "What?"

Laura's voice is desperate. "Jamie just screamed."

Con wastes no time. He's angry with himself for not being able to hear Jamie, and for being stupid enough to sleep on his good ear again. He sprints up the stairs two at a time to reach Jamie's bedroom and opens the door without even knocking. Seeing her on her bed, the fear on her face, he relaxes a little, knowing there is no intruder. But his heart still aches. He approaches her slowly and sits down on the edge of the bed to pull her into his arms. "Hey..." His voice is quiet and soothing. "You're okay." He rubs her back, rocking her gently. "It's alright...what happened?"


Carson turns his head as the door opens, and rises from the floor, brushing himself off. Finally something had broken up the boring atmosphere. "Yeah, well if you'd been in here all night, you'd probably rise early too." He goes for the cup of coffee with a nod of thanks.

As Nate discovers the jacket and questions him, Carson quirks an eyebrow and sets the cup back down to slip his hands into his back pockets casually. "Maybe you should ask the owner of that jacket. Either that or assume that I got myself out of here last night, planted bogus evidence and locked myself back in." He raises a cocky eyebrow, challenging Nate's train of thought.

Jacket

*After geting changed Katie smiles over at Jason.*

"I better get some sleep too. Tomarrow will be my last therapy before I leave in a few days. I wanna make it a good one. I'll only be doing it once a week after I go. Well...Sleep well J. I had a wondeful time."

*Katie leans back and closes her eyes falling fast asleep.*

*Jamie smiles and stands. Not wanting to go to bed but knowing she must. Being as quiet as she can Jamie grabs a blanter for Con and a pillow.*

"There is the spair bed room up stairs if Laura wakes up. It might be alittle more comfortable for her."

*Jamie beds down and gives Con a small kiss.*

"Night Hun."

*Jamie makes her way upstairs and changes into her pjs. Once her head hits the pillow she is out.*

*As Nate makes his way in the house a small light shines from the kitchen. As Nate make his way to the kitchen A note lay on the counter. A bit of scribble is inscribed on one but he can make it out alittle bit.*

"I love you Nathan. Love, Maddie"

*Nate smiles at his sisters note. She was such a sweet heart. Nate puts the note down and picks up another.*

"Nate, There is some dinner in the frig for you. Rick and I had Maggie over for dinner and she asked if she could bring you home some. So of corse we told her she could. She missed you an awfel alot and cant wait for the weekend to come when you will be home. She is sleeping soundly now. Have a good night. -Janet"

*Nate smiles and opens the frig. Jante had been a Godsent when Maggie and her had moved him. Janet was Rick's wife they both lived in the apartment that attachend to Nate's. Janet was a nurse and took care of Maggie for Nate when he was gone. She was so good with Maggie. Maggie also took right away witch helped alot.

After eating some dinner and watching tv Nate head upstair and stops at his sisters good. Opening the door quietly Nate slips into the room. Going over to his sister he pulls the blanket up under her chin and gives her a small kiss on the head.*

"I love you to my dear sister."

*Exiting the room Nate heads to his own and enters for the night. Leaving the door open a crack incase Maggie needed anything.*

~*~ Morning~*~

*Jamie lets out a sharp scream as she sits up from bed. Pulling her knees up to her chest she rock herself. The cold sweat running down her face She starts to shiver. How, how could she deal with this. Every little noise, every little shadow bothered her. She never use to be this skidish and she couldent wait for it to go away again so she could be herself.*

*Nate makes his way to his desk seeing the note from Reese. Taking a sip of his coffee He lets out a long sigh and decieds not to sit down or he will never get up. Making his way to the holding cell with Coffee in hand Nate stops in the break room. Figuring Carson will be hungry he grabs a breakfest sandwatch and another cup of coffee for him. Wxiting he continues his route to Carson's cell. Nate juggles the cups of coffee and sandwitch as he opens the cell door.*

"Rise and shine."

*Seeing Carson is already up Nate just chuckles.*

"Well I see I dident need to wake you up. Guess your an early riser. I braught you some Coffee and a breakfest sandwatcg I thought maybe you would be hun...."

*As Nate turns and sets the coffee and sandwatch down on the small nightstand he spots Misty's jacket. Picking it up he turns to Carson questions filling his eyes.*

"Did we have friends over to play latenight?"

Morning comes

Jason laughs at Katie's comment, and continues his route to the motorcycle.

The rain continues to pour down all the way back to the hospital. Once in the parking lot, Jason helps Katie off the bike and instead of taking the time to walk, he carries her instead, sneaking past the nurses station and trying not to trail too much water.

Finally in Katie's room they're able to get dry clothes on and Jason flops down on the spare bed. He glances at his watch, surprised at how late it is. "I guess I better conk out so I can get a few hours worth of sleep." He looks over to Katie, throwing her a quick wink. "Thanks for the fun evening."


Laura watches Nate leave, her eyes lingering on the door for several moments after he's disappeared. Turning to Jamie, she smiles and shakes her head. "I'm alright, though having some popcorn along with one of those movies sounds like a good idea to me."

It doesn't take long for the three of them to settle down in the living room for the movie, Laura in a chair, and Con with Jamie on the couch. By the time the movie has ends, Laura has already drifted off to sleep in her chair.

Con rises and lays a blanket over his sister before sitting back down on the couch. He looks at Jamie and brushes her cheek with his hand. "I'll bunk down here. If you need anything in the night, just let me know."


Ty looks after Misty with suspicion as she walks away, and stays in the hall for several minutes. He looks at the door, then glances up by the ceiling where the surveillance camera is. No one was watching the screens tonight...but if anyone checked later, what just happened had been caught on tape.

Shrugging, Ty goes back to his work. No one was hurt, no one had escaped. Maybe it really didn't matter. If this area was under that much scrutiny, someone would watch the tape and maybe question him. If asked, he'd tell what happened, but for now, he was just as content saying nothing.


Reese eases down in his chair, stifling a yawn. Though getting to TJY early, he'd never been a morning person, and today needed that extra cup of coffee. He sifts through some papers on his desk, finding several notes he'd written to himself as reminders. Spying one about Carson, he grabs it and a pen. Yesterday had been a disaster all together, and Carson still had not been questioned. Reese sees that he has written down for Nate and Laura to perform the interrogation, but once he'd thought about it, he'd started to change his mind. Laura had seemed a bit out of it yesterday, and though he would never ask about it, Reese suspected it had something to do with her and Con. If that was the case, she wouldn't be emotionally up to par, and that might not be such a good idea to put her in with Carson if he was going to be rough.

Reese crosses out Laura's name and writes Jason's name instead. Nate and Jason seemed to get along alright, and between them, Carson shouldn't be able to get away with much.
Reese knew Nate would probably be in before Jason, and picks up the phone. "Hey, Susanne...would you mind putting a note on Nate's desk to take Carson to the interrogation room when he gets here? And put on there that Jason will join him."


Carson keeps his feet up against the wall as he counts his sit-ups, holding his hands behind his bed, and working up a sweat. He was bored, he was nervous, he wanted a smoke worse than anything, and he wanted to get out of this stupid cell. Working off energy was the only thing he could do to keep his sanity.

I can see the good.

*Katie smiles back at Jason as they turn to make there way back.*

"And you mister too. We dont need you geting sick eather. I need you in top health and does does the band. I dont want to kiss no sick person, and the band dosent want you sick trying to sing eather"

*Katie cant help but grin as she leans her head on Jason's shoulder.*

*Nate stands and streches.*

"Well I guess I better start heading out. I have to be into work early tomarrow. I think its gonna be a long day again."

*Nate smiles at Laura and he pass. Than gives Jamie shoulder a gental squeeze.*

"Take it easy Jamie. See you again soon."

*Passing by Con he gives a slight nod and heads for the door. Running to his car out of the rain and heading home.*

*Jamie lets out a breath and reaches up puting her hand on Con's than looks at Laura.*

"Have you eaten yet hun? I can make you something. I have a bunch of movies too maybe we can watch one before bed."

*Jamie smiles a bit nervely. She new she would have to go to sleep soon but she was scaired to close her eyes for the dreams would come again and invade her rest.*

*Misty stiffens at Ty's question puting her on guard. Not knowing who this boy was mad her uneasy and to think about her answers carfely.*

" Because I've seen the good in Carson. He's just...lost."

*Slowly Misty takes a few steps back and looks in the window in the door from the side hoping Carson wont be able to see her. Than backs away.*

"And I feel pulled to him for some reson. Ment to help him. Please dont tell anyone what you saw tonight. I know its alot to ask, but nothing wrong was going on here. Nothing bad happend. If Carson truly wasent trying to change dont you think when he opend the door he would of tryed to escape. Do what you must, what you think is right. But I am only trying to help."

*Misty turns and heads down the hall and out of TJY to her car.*

My guess is...

Jason returns Katie’s hug tightly, feeling as though he never wants to let her go. “I’ll never understand why you picked me,” he speaks softly. “But I’m glad you did. I don’t know where I’d be if it weren’t for you. You’re important to me, Katie…and I just can’t help the way I feel.”

He withdraws a little to see Katie’s face, wishing only he could cradle it again, but his arms are full. Grinning, he turns back to the path. “I better get you out of this before you catch your death of cold.”


Con and Laura drift into the living room, Laura moving her bag out of the way. Con leans on the back of Jamie’s couch behind her, not wanting to interrupt her and Nate, but knowing the evening must progress sometime. “It’s getting late. What’s the game plan, guys?”


Carson’s eyes narrow a bit at Misty’s questions, unsure how to process them, and too uncomfortable to respond. As she gives him a hug, he feels himself stiffen. His own reaction catches him off guard. A few minutes ago, he would have enjoyed this. But it was different…she wasn’t asking for anything…it wasn’t out of impulsive’s desire…it was an embrace to comfort…to show care. And that was the kind of embrace Carson was not used to.

His hands automatically raise to be placed on Misty’s back, though the hug is not returned, his mind going in too many directions at once, especially after she whispers those words.

Carson simply stares after her until the door is shut. He doesn’t move for several minutes…contemplating…analyzing…pushing away unwanted emotions.

Giving in to the fact that he’s once again alone, he retreats to the cot, sinking down and leaning back against the wall a little too quickly, making his shoulder hurt. But it didn’t seem too painful in comparison to what his heart was feeling. This was exactly why he’d never spoken of the past…it hurt too much. Why had he allowed himself to open up? Why had he allowed Misty to affect him like that? It just didn’t make sense. He wasn’t himself, and it felt strange.


As Misty leans up against the wall, Ty quirks an eyebrow at her. He was new here…he was slowly learning about the way things ran…about TJY itself and the jobs that were done. Something here just didn’t seem right.

Ty slings his garbage sack over his shoulder, hooking his free hand in his pocket. “So…my guess is that you were not interrogating that guy. What’s up with the secrecy?”

What are you gonna do

*As Jason spins Katie opens her arms up like she is flying laughing and giggling, leting the rain hit her. The rain felt good, Jason's arms felt good, Katie's laughs felt good. Giving out a hoot and haller.*

"We're free like birds."

*As Katie brinds her head down her sparking eyes meet Jason and she just smiles. How Jason had come to mean so much to her so fast. His eyes, it was one of the peaces of his puzzle that was missing was now found, that bit of happyness was in her eyes and refecten pure joy. It was good to see the change in Jason to see him happy, and have found what was missing. Though there past had been rough Katie wouldent change anything that happend.*

"Even in the rain Jason I have a wonderful time with you. You truly are amazing and I want you to know that. Thank you."

*Katie wraps her arms around Jason and hugs him tight.*

*As Carson grabs Misty and puts her in a head lock her arms imediatly go to his for arm that is around her neck out of pure instinction. Though if you looks at her eyes close enough you would see she wasent scaired. She new Carson wasent trying to hurt her, only trying to help her get out.

As Misty is pushed from the room she turns and smiles at Carson for a bref moment the fire in her eyes returning bright. Holding up her hand to stop Ty from closing the door just yet. In her sassy tone she replys.*

“So what happened a few days ago that made you change you mind? And now will you keep that fire burning? Or are you going to let it go out?"

*Quickly Misty enters the cell again and puts her arms around Carson giveing him a hug she whispers.*

"I have faith in you and wont give up, now you have faith in yourself and don’t give up. If you cant do it for youself, do it for the sassy little spitfire."

*As fast as she entered the cell she exits noding to Ty to shut the door. Once outside the cell and the door is shut Misty leans against the wall taking the back of her head aganst it. The feeling that bubbled inside of her was driving her crazy. How could this happen so fast. She dident understand it and it scaired her alittle.*

Escape?

Carson doesn't know what to do with himself as Misty talks. He isn't used to sharing about his past at all, let alone having someone be compassionate about it. Whenever he'd dared to speak before, he'd been put down or laughed at...but not Misty. There was a softness to her hard edge...one that confused Carson.

He finally looks up as she stands by the door, sensing her own emotions. Why had they ended up here together? Why had they had this instant pull towards each other? Why tonight? There didn't seem to be an explanation.

Carson is tempted to stand and go to her, but he restrains himself, not wanting to put himself in a position where he might make a mistake. Instead he remains seated, saying nothing. For what could he possibly say?


Jason gazes into Katie's eyes, a grin toying with his mouth. He leans down to offer a kiss of his own, drawing back with his eyes sparkling, the rain pelting down on his face. A laugh makes its way to the surface. "Are we crazy or what?" Holding Katie tighter, he spins around under the storm then stops to lift his face to the clouds, enveloped in the rain. "We're on top of the world!" he shouts into a roll of thunder.


Laura sees Nate to in to talk to Jamie, and turns to her brother. Looking at him for a moment, she moves to give him a hug.

Con accepts, and holds her close, his own mind thinking of the past...she was still his little sister, and he still watched over her like a hawk, even though they were adults now. "You okay?"

"Yeah." Laura backs away and nods decisively. "Yeah, I'm okay. How about you?"

"Oh...I'm alright."

Laura looks at his eyes, knowing he's not alright. "Things will get better. They have to."


Ty makes his way down the hall in the back of TJY, emptying the trash cans into a larger bag. He didn't mind the late night work...he'd rather be alone anyway, and Hal trusted him to do his own tasks. Setting a waste basket down, it slips from his grasp, knocking into the wall with a bang.

Carson looks up quickly, hearing a sound that is not thunder. He's on his feet immediately and goes to the door to look out the small window. Seeing Ty, he raises his eyebrows. "You might get out of here tonight yet, Sassy."

Taking the opportunity before it slips away, he raps his knuckles on the thick glass.

Ty looks up from his duty to see a face at the door and knows it's the guy they'd brought in a couple days ago. Leery, he approaches with caution.

Carson speaks loudly and thumbs behind him at Misty. "Hey, kid, open up the door so Misty can get out of here, will ya?"

Ty comes closer, and sees Misty, his apprehension rising. He didn't know this young woman...apparently she was from TJY. But what was she doing there? Why were they in there together? This time of night? What was really going on? Was it some kind of trick?

Carson rolls his eyes as he sees Ty's hesitance. Thinking on his feet, he reaches out to grab Misty, roughly spinning her around to put her in a choke hold, his face growing angry. His eyes blaze with intentions of getting out of this cell. "Open it now, or you'll have more to deal with than you care to think!"

Ty's face pales. He's sure now that Carson is trying to escape, but if he didn't open the door, the woman would be hurt. Though still hesitating, he reaches out to press the buttons on the key pad, disarming the alarm, and opens the door.

Carson gives Misty a light shove, sending her out of the room with a glare in Ty's direction. "Breathe a word of this to anyone and it'll be you in the choke hold next. Got it?"

Ty's eyes widen as he looks at Misty, then Carson. He wasn't trying to escape? But...what....?

Ed

*Misty listens to Carson carfely. Her heart acked. So that’s what made him tick. What made him do what he did. As Carson talks Misty does see much but is his unmoved eyes she can see there is pain. Those sharp blue eyes showed that he was in much pain. He was cold and hardend to keep the pain at bay.*

“I’m sorry Carson. About your family. Ya I know what you will probley say “Meh it happens, it dosent bother me anymore” or something to that affect, But I am sorry anways. That’s a lot for a person to go through and I bet there is a lot of pain inside still too.”

*Misty’s tone softens as she speaks. The fire and spunk still in her eyes, but the sound of her voice no longer matches. Misty pushes herself off of the Cot and walks over to the cell door looking out the window into the blackness. Silence filling the room for a moment. Misty leans aganst the solid door looking out the window just thinking. A large flash of lighting lights up the hall shinning into the cell though the windows, light up Misty’s face slightly. Enough to make out a small tear that pass quick.*

“Your not a coward Carson. Your family had just been shot in front of you face what alse where there for you to do. You wanted to stay alive I don’t think that makes you a coward at all. It only makes you human.”

*Misty continues to lean aganst the door as the silence invades the tiny room again.*

*Kaite cant help but giggle as Jason picks her up and walks with her through the rain. Katie watches in awww as the reach the cliff and see the lighting and clouds. It was so pritty she had never seen anything so amazing in her life.

Katie never liked the lighting to much but she aslways liked rain. For the first time she got to get a good look, at the light, the rain the sound of the thunder and with Jason's arms wraped around her she wasent scaired at all. She was enjoying even minute of it, not even cairing about the rain on her skin anymore. Turning her head Katie looks at Jason and smiles giving him a small kiss on the lips.*

"This is amazing J. Its so pretty."

*Nate smiles as he steps into the house sencing Con stillness for a moment he takes a step back not wanting to tangel with Con. Smiling he holds up Ed's box.*

"I thought I would bring Ed back to Jamie too since I was coming this way."

*Nate smiles at Laura slipping off his shoes he makes his exit heading into the living room where he is guessing Jamie is. Seeing her on the coutch he goes over to her and sets Ed's box down. Than takes his own seat in a chair across from her.*

"How are you feeling?"

*Jamie trys to muster up the best smile she can. She was a bit skidish from the lighting and thunder but wasent feeling to bad since Con was there.*

"The best I can be. Alittle bit skiddish, but alive non the less. Still just dealing with trying to get past some stuff."

*Nate holds his smile and nods.*

"Its understandable. You've been through alot no one can just think your gonna be good like that."

*Nate snaps his fingers as he continues to talk.*

"It will get better though. Your strong and you have a good person thats lending his shoulder. Dispite everything He really cares for you and want to protect you."

*Jamie reaches into Ed's box and pulls him out leting him coll around her wrist and lifts his head to look at Jamie as if to say hello. Smiling Jamie replys to Nate.*

"Ya I know he is great. I'm very thankful for Con. He means alot to me. We've been friends for ages and now to let it grow into something more is a good feeling. Its nice having friends that care too. Thank you Nate."

*Nate gives a small smile and nods.*

View

Carson doesn't reply to Misty right away. His eyes grow dim...lifeless and he doesn't look in her direction. Quiet settles over the room as if he's not going to answer her. "

My father worked for the Agency." His statement slices through the silence. "I was just a kid...all I knew was that he was a businessman. He often took trips to the US, and every once in a while he'd let me tag along, though I'd end up staying alone at the hotel while he went to his 'business meetings' that would have been 'too boring' for someone my age."

Carson's eyes dart about the room as he blocks out the past. "I don't know how much my mom ever knew. I think she suspected something, but wasn't involved." He shrugs. "So I grew up as normal as any kid. Went to school, had friends, didn't get in too much trouble, though I was less than an A student. When I was out of high school, my dad approached me about a job. It would just be running errands, he said. Maybe going to the US with him again, though officially. The pay was good - what kid wouldn't want cash in his pocket?"

He shifts his weight, stretching out his legs on the floor, still staring ahead and not a Misty. "I didn't know about the Agency's dealings right away...I picked up on things slowly, but by that time I'd already been working for several years and didn't want to lose my job so I turned a blind eye to anything I heard. Then one day something happened...my dad had a fight with someone, or he didn't agree with something they were doing. In a desperate move, the Agency brought in my father, me, my mother and my sister. They started threatening us...saying our dealings with them needed to be all or nothing. My father stood his ground, my mother by then had an idea of what was going on, and she stuck with him. My sister was bull-headed enough to insult one of the guys holding us."

Carson makes no movement...his eyes lock into one of the cement blocks on the far wall. "The Agency gave us one more chance...it was joining them or die. My family chose to turn their backs and walk away. They were gunned down. Dead within a matter of seconds." His stare never wavers. "The gun was pointed at me and I proved just what a coward I was by folding. I'd work for them. I channeled my anger against the Agency towards other people instead...the people they wanted me to take down, or torture into talking. I was good at it...the best they had because I was brutal and I didn't care. Eventually, despite what the Agency had done, was on their side without so much as a look back. There was no way out, so the only option was to be one of them, and I played the part to a tee..." Carson allows just a slight pause. "...Until a few days ago."

He scoffs and finally looks down, letting his fingers fidget with a loose threat on his blanket. "So, that's me. A coward who looks out for number one." He shakes his head. "I don't even know why I'm telling you all of this."


Jason steers his motorcycle along the road as it makes a steady incline until reaching a plateau with a gravel lot. Parking, he sets the bike on its kickstand and gets off, removing his helmet, despite the pouring rain, and takes Katie's off too. Grabbing her so she doesn't have to walk, he lifts her up into his arms and walks a ways through the rain until they reach the edge of a cliff. Trees had blocked the view up until that point, but now they could see out across the countryside. Lightning flashes in the distance, revealing the ominous rolling clouds. Thunder rumbles, shaking the earth. The view is breathtaking, the fact that they're soaked to the bone isn't even considered.

Jason squints out into the rain, waiting for each lighting flash to enjoy the display, holding Katie so she can see too.


Arriving at Jamie's Laura runs quickly to the door with Nate in toe. Con is already at the door, opening it and ushering them in out of the rain. "Good grief, I was about ready to call someone to go looking for you."

Laura grimaces. "I know, I know. Sorry. I got hung up."

Con looks at her for a moment, immediately seeing the slight redness in her eyes. That was from no rain. He glances towards Nate, then back at Laura again, questioning the circumstances of which he didn't know.

Laura senses his concern and doesn't want him assuming this had anything to do with Nate. She pushes a smile to the surface. "My car is in the shop again, but Nate was kind enough to give me a lift, so you have him to thank for getting me here in one piece."

Story

*Misty smiles at she sits down on the Cot. Her own body was tired but there was no way she could sleep not now. Pulling the blanker around her Misty leans her head aganst the wall her eyes moving to Carson. He has his chanse yet he did nothing. Did he truly care enough about her not to hurt her. Carson...she had yet to figure him out, but He was...a good man with a messed up life.*

"So since we have the time, about telling me your true story. I bet you left a bit out too."

*Misty's tone has softened alittle. A smile on her face. Everything was gonna be ok, she new and hoped it would be.Misty hoped if anything came out of this mess maybe the other would see Carson was a good guy for not hurting her or trying anything. Misty wished they could see what she did. *

Cot

Carson can’t help a crooked grin at Misty. It was obvious she didn’t mind being here in this room with him. Perhaps she was even enjoying it. Why, Carson didn’t know, but he couldn’t be misreading her that much.

Cocking his head, he catches her eye once again. She was trying to read him, no doubt. What would he allow her to see? What could he afford? What did he dare?

Looking at her, he suddenly realizes that not a week prior, if put in this same position with another woman, his feelings would be very different, as would be the outcome of the night. He’d always gone after what he wanted, no matter what, disregarding consequences and taking advantage of circumstances or people, whether it was his job, or simply his own desires. Tonight he was locked in a room with Misty, most likely with no one to come until morning. And yet…

Carson hooks his hands in his pockets and sighs deeply. He wasn’t sure why…he wasn’t sure what was happening to him… but for the first time, he felt differently. He was looking at Misty differently than he had others… He didn’t want to hurt her. He didn’t want to take advantage of the situation. He honestly didn’t want to…and as crazy as it seemed, that in itself was a new sensation. But he couldn’t deny it. He would not be treating Misty like he had others.

Finally moving forward, Carson goes to his cot to pick up the blanket and replace it with a different one. He tosses the first one on the floor, then moves to Misty, taking her by the hand to pull her by the cot, turn her around and set her down on it. “Better make yourself comfortable. It’s gonna be a long night.”

He moves away and eases himself down to the floor on the other blanket, settling back against the wall, and pulling his knees up closer to his chest to rest his arms on them. He keeps the light on, and lets his eyes stare into nothingness, exhausted, but too alert to sleep.

Stuck

*As Misty falls forword and Carson's arms catch her once again for the first time since they firt met her cheeks turn a small shade of red. Within moment the bit of embarssment is gone and just a rose color to her cheeks remain.*

"Consequences, Hummm....I dont think I know what those are. Maybe you should show me again!"

*As the lights go off and the highpitch sounds Misty covers her ears. After the sounds stop and Carson check the wire Misty's widen as well a bit.*

"Huh, what a cawinsadence, now I dont have to make a chose if I stay or leave. But I dont think I mind."

*Misty walks over to the door and looks at the wires seeing if anything can be done. The last thing she wasent was to get Carson in even more trouble. She dident care what happend to herself. Leting out a sigh she turns around.*

"Well it was fun while it lasted, though I dont think I would change anything if given the chanse."

*Misty removes her small jacket she had on and throws it over the small table figure she is gonna be here a while she might as well get comfortable. Misty's eyes find Carson's face once again what was running through his mind? what was he thinking about?*

*Nate laughs at Laura's comment. A smile pasted across his face. She was smiling and it made Nate feel good.*

"Ya I like the rain too. Its always been a fun passtime. Maybe sometime you will have to show me what a storm on the lake looks like I've never seen on."

*For a moment Nate things about his next words.*

"Its good to see you laughing and smiling again Laura. You desereve it."

*Finally they make it to Jamies house and head inside. Nate trying to keep Ed dry.*

* The rain felt good on Katie's skin. It wasent cold but warm. Though totaly wet Katie truly was having fun.Katie cant help but smile as Jason points to the sign. She tightens her arms around his alittle as if to say ok. Waiting to talk till they stop.*

Rain

As Misty hovers over Carson, he doesn’t move a muscle, but only stares her boldly in the eye. Her words cut deep…deeper than he’d like. Again, strange feelings try to make their way to the surface…ones that he’s had buried for such a long time. Misty had turned his own thought process around to use against him, and had done it well enough to catch him up again. But still he says nothing. His stare is steady, unwavering, his emotions hidden from view.

Misty’s face so close to his own, Carson can’t help but wonder where her own thoughts are. He recalls their earlier exchange, and wonders if that spark in her eye leads to more than just a spunky attitude. Had it been lit by mutual attraction, or was she simply toying with him? Was she daring him on purpose, or was her only motive to make him think about her words?

As she stands up, Carson’s eyes narrow ever so slightly, an almost-sly grin playing at the corners of his mouth. Without straightening, he sticks out his foot to hook Misty’s leg, knocking her off balance so she falls toward him again. He catches her around the waist, brining her face back inches from his own. “You don’t catch on very quick to the consequences factor, do you?” He pulls her in closer.

Suddenly the light goes out, followed by a tremendous roll of thunder. The light comes back on, and a high-pitched beeping invades the air. Carson lets go of Misty and quickly gets to his feet, following the sound to the door. Running his hand along the edge, he looks up at the subtle wiring, then hears the beeping stop. Through the small window in the door, he can just make out a small red light. His eyes widen.

Turning around, he sets his hands on his hips, looking at Misty again. “Hate to break the news to you, Sassy, but you’re not going anywhere unless you want to set the alarm off in this whole place. Lightning must have triggered the system, and there’s no control panel in here.”


Laura is on the verge of surprised by Nate’s comment, not sure what to think of it. Surely nothing was different between them…was it? He was just helping her out because he’d been her last resort…right?

Pushing aside these thoughts, Laura accepts Nate’s arm around her shoulder as they exit the house, then dash through the rain. Laura squeals with delight as the rain hits her face, getting her very wet, despite the short distance to the car. Giggling, she gets in and straps herself in. “I haven’t been out in a storm like this in a long time. I just love watching the lightning. Out at the lake it’s gorgeous being out in a storm with the waves crashing and the rain coming down in sheets…” She gives Nate a sheepish grin. “Not that I make a habit out of going to the lake in storms, but I’ll admit I’ve done it a time or two.”


Jason grimaces and nods. “It’s coming down pretty hard out there, but I don’t think we should wait ‘til it lets up – it could be a while.” Sighing, he stands and helps Katie back up again. “Alright…let’s go.”

With a quick farewell to the guys, Jason and Katie don their jackets and helmets and head outside into the pouring rain. Though Jason wants to run, he takes his time for Kaite’s sake, helping her back onto the bike. “Sorry,” he apologizes loudly above a roll of thunder. “Wet seats.” Straddling the bike in front of her, he gets it started and pulls out, making sure Katie is hanging on.

Lighting illuminates the dark road, displaying the pelting rain. Almost immediately, both riders are soaked, though it’s a warm rain. Jason skillfully maneuvers the road, though drives with caution as the storm continues.

Thunderheads line the horizon, lit up by spidering lightning, creating an awesome sight. Jason grins to himself and takes one hand off the handlebars to reach back and pat Katie’s leg, then point as he makes a turn off on another road instead of aiming back towards town. A sign signals "Cavern Lookout."

Face to Face

*As Misty watches Carson she can see his eyes change from one thing to the next sending her heart racing. Why, what was this...She dident know Carson and yet this feeling what was it. As the thunder rolls in the background Misty is unmoved by it, but notices Carson jump. She dosent blame him. She would be pritty jumpy if she was him too. For that matter she WAS as jumpy as he was. Misty shakes her head and stands streching. As Carson talks to her about being alittle girl inside something sticks a cord in her own heart hiting home. Shaking it away the fire returns to Mistys eyes. As she thinks about leaving Misty turns back to the Cot and walks over to where Carson is. Leaning forword she puts both her hands on the wall by his head and shifts her weaght so her arms is saporting it all as she is on her toes and leaning over Carson her face inches from his the fire, spunk dancing in her eyes showing no fear. Misty cocks her head alittle bit looking into Carson's eyes.*

"I bet inside you there is a boy that wants to get out too. And I bet there is a boy that wants to believe in hope again. Maybe all you need is that one person to put faith in you, trust you and show you hope. Well Guess that Carson that one person is me. I took the match and lit the fire, what you do with it is your choise. How far will you go to get what you want, to take what you really want and not let it go. Dont let that fire burn out. It could be the last chanse for both of you."

*Misty stays looks down into Carson's eyes for a moment more. Pushing off the wall she moves herself from Carson's face and just stands in front of him.*

*As Laura arms find there way around Nate he lets out a content sigh. Laura felt nice in his arms. Her warmth...For a moment Nate stops and thinks, this feeling it wasent there before. What was happing. His heart gave a bit of a jump as Laura was wraped in his arms. Nate wasent scaired of much but for a moment this feeling frightend him. After a moment Nate chases the feeling away that was crazy Laura was his firend there was no reson to feel funny around her. As Laura draws away and runs her finger on the wet spot on his shirt Nate smiles.*

"Hey look at that you did. Its ok, this shirt needed to be cleaned anyways and now you started the process for me."

*Nate cant help but chuckle.*

" I promise I wont tell anyone I saw you cry ok. Though I have to admit I dident mind comforting you. I hope if you ever need anything Laura you would feel comfortable enough to talke to me."

*As the light flashes and the thunder rolls, Nate feels Laura's grip tighten. As if shelting her again Nate grabs her bag off the floor and puts his arm around Laura's should once again. Making his way her to the door. As they leave me makes sure to lock the door behind him. Running to his car with Laura he opens her door than runs about to his side jumping in. Pulling out of the drive way he smiles.*

"Away we go."

*As Katie hears Jason she cant help but laugh yelling.*

"CANT A PERSON USE THE BATHROOM IN PEACE GOODNESS."

*After a few moment the sound of a tolit is flushed and the water running. Finally Katie makes her way back downstairs slowly. The rain has started and it was making her back hurt though she trys not to show it. Siting down on the coutch next to Jason.*

"Oh no...my phone is out there somewhere geting wet. Now it will never work. I am gonna have to get a new one. Oh well."

*Katie cant help but smile.*

"Your right it is gonna be a wet ride. I dont mean to cute this pow wow short cuz I am certinly having to much fun to want to leave, but Maybe we should get going now before it gets to bad?"

Thunder

Carson sits back lazily as Misty begins to talk, just glad he's not as bored as the night before.

As she mentions not being able to be shy around him, and that he brought the spark out in her, he can't help a twinge of surprised amusement. He usually had quite a bad effect on people...this was an interesting switch...something about it almost made him feel good...something about it made him even more curious about this woman.

Misty's observation about Carson not being a vile person also stops him for a moment. First, it was hard imagining someone who didn't consider him as such. And second, if it was true, when had he changed? And had it been permanent or simply a brief moment that Misty had happened to be witness to? Carson almost opens his mouth to comment, but decides not to, and simply keeps his eyes fixed on Misty's face as she talks.

Her comment of him running from her forces a short scoff to the surface, along with a wry grin. "Oh yeah...I'm the type to go off running with my tail tucked alright. Hired hitmen are usually pretty easily frightened." Though his eyes barely move, the sarcastic humor invades them, almost as if he can control the kind of stare uses.

The news of Misty being in a gang has no effect on Carson, or his body language. He simply listens, almost as if what she was saying was what he'd already expected to hear...he reacts neither positively nor negatively.

As she mentions her sass, Carson lifts one eyebrow above the other, his jaw muscles tightening to withhold his grin. "You only run into trouble when a man finds that sassiness an enjoyable challenge rather than something to be afraid of." He meets her eyes head on, his own flashing ever so briefly with a different look...something softer...warmer maybe. But as quickly as he allows it to show, he disperses it just as easily, listening to the rest of her story.

"Ah, now we're getting somewhere." He nods slowly. "I bet I've run across your name a time or two if you tangled with the Agency."

Carson cocks his head as Misty concludes. "Touché. You've got more knowledge about what really goes on in this world than most people, I'll give that to ya." A memory invades his mind for an instant, and he sees his sister's face. He studies Misty's own face...her eyes...her body language, as a computer scanning each detail and processing it to file within his memory bank. The next words come out unplanned. "And I'd bet that somewhere...under all that sass...there's still a little girl that knows she grew up too fast and just wants to be that little girl again, carefree and innocent."

Without warning, a deep rumble of thunder shakes the lower level of TJY, and Carson sits bolt upright, almost jumping out of his skin. Relaxing again, he just about rolls his eyes at himself for being so skittish - he didn't like to admit that loud noises like that bothered him.

Resuming his bold air, he eyes Misty again. "Sounds like you better get your sassy self out of here before it gets too bad outside. Otherwise you'll be stuck here, and I doubt you'd want to stay in here with the likes of me. Not to mention tomorrow I would probably die and you would lose your job."


As Laura receives Nate's words, she can feel the walls that she built back up from that morning, starting to crumble once again. Being pulled into his arms feels warm and safe, comfortable and not awkward. A sob catches in her throat a the tears break forth once again. This time she doesn't try to hide them. She needs to let them out once an for all, allowing her emotions to be released.

She's never allowed a man other than her brother to hold her like this, but that thought doesn't cross her mind right now. Her own arms find their way around Nate, leaning into his protective hold - a shelter she needed.

Her crying eventually softens until her nerves have calmed down again. She sniffs, her head resting against Nate's chest. Blinking, she draws back a little, letting out a sorry laugh as she wipes her eyes with the back of her hand. "I got your shirt all wet." She takes her fingers to rub the wet spot, not daring to look up at his eyes. "Okay, you realize this this is totally unfair. Other than my brother and Jason, no one is allowed to see me cry and you've succeeded not only once, but twice in the same day." She sniffs again, trying to gracefully compose herself, though it's not easy. "Alright, so um...Jamie's...yes...if I don't show up soon, Con will be calling me again."

A flash of lightning illuminates the house before a deafening crack of thunder. Laura jumps, her hand automatically tightening on Nate's arm. "Goodness, that was close. I didn't even know it was supposed to storm tonight."


Kyle watches Katie ascend the stairs and calls after her. "Don't fall in! It's a long way down!"

"Kyle!" Phil gives his shin a kick. "Behave."

Jason laughs and runs a hand through his hair. "Well guys...I know I haven't been able to practice as much as I should - I hope I haven't slowed you down any."

"Bub, keep up putting yourself down and you're gonna find out what it's like to have three maniacs beating on you," Mike warns. "Okay, so yeah, we should practice more, but we knew you'd be in and out when we invited you here. And besides that, you've got such a good ear that you just sit down and start playing as if you've known these songs all your life. We'll be fine for the fundraiser."

A low rumble interrupts their conversation and Phil cocks his head. "Huh...didn't know we were supposed to get rain."

Jason shrugs, then suddenly realizes what that means. "Oh no..."

"What?"

"We brought my bike."

Kyle lets a laugh slip out. "Ooh, smart move!"

"Well I don't have a car!" Jason retorts. "If I could afford it, I would. But the forecast was clear weather tonight, not rain." He lets out a groan. "This is gonna be fun. " He aims his voice upward, knowing the bathroom is above that corner of the basement. "Hey, Katie!" he yells. "Better prepare yourself for a wet ride home!"

Past like Your

*Misty can sence Carson's deprestion. For some reson it struck a cords in Misty's heart. Why, why did she care so much for this stranger she hardly new and someone with his past. Was is because she had one herself or was it just those stunning blue eyes the drew her in. That felt like they searches her soul for an answer. Misty cant help but feel hypnotised by them. Yes there was something differnt about Carson and Misty had no fear. Misty grin alittle as Carson bring up wanting to know about her past again. Turning so she is on the bed alittle more she sits crossing her legs indien style so she could see Carson a bit better.*

"I guess theres no fooling you huh? I dont know what it about you Carson, but you bring that spark out of me. I tryed to be shy and innocent around everyone. This was my job here. and it worked till I saw you. Ya I know totaly crazy right. Next your far from vial. Well at the moment anyways. A person is not made up of actions of the past but those yet to come. We can all change and become better people yet still have a shard edgh like myself."

*Once again Misty search Carson's face for the answer she was looking for. A sassy little grin plays her lips and she re-thinks Carson's question about her past.*

"I am average now anyways. Sort of I guess. Mmmmm...my past, you want to know about my post ok. I guess I can get alittle bit more into detail just dont run for the hills with your tail between your legs.

I grew up here as a kid in a really strikt christion family. Navada has been my home time for ages. As I grew up alot of differnt stuff happend in life that I dident understand and I dident understand my family anymore. I ended up running away from home and joining a gang. I had to be sassy there I was a woman in a gang of mostly guys. I had to have that sharp edgh to let them know not to mess with me. So i guess thats where my sassyness came from and I just never let go of it. In a way I guess I like it."

*For a moment Misty is silent, giving Carson a chanse to talk if he needed to. Misty's eyes meet him as she continues to talk.*

"Well the little gang I was in ran side jobes for the Agency. Nothing to big just hits, and geting money. We wernt involved in the "Big Picture." Anyways while doing that I killed my shair of people that the Agency wanted me to, that our gang boss wanted me too. I was rolling in some good money. But time went on and Reese actully is the one that helped me get out. Is the Agency after me still? Is the gang still looking for me? Oh probley. They wouldent notice me by my looks anymore, I was young than and had grown up quite a bit but if I ever talked to one I am sure they would know who I was I left an impresstion on there brain that would probley last a life time. Anyways...I'm here now changed."

*Misty eyes lite up with sparks and her grin grows wider.*

"See I told you, you have more in common with these people than you think."

*Nate puts his arm around Laura's shoulder.*

"Sometimes it sad how time, this world, this life can change people. We help people but I wonder if we ever stop and think in a sence we are hurting people too. The stuff we go through can be alot to one person. It can do alot of stuff to your mind and mess you up pritty good. I guess in a sence its like a war. You see so many people, friends, loved ones get hurt and its just to much to handle. Those are the people we really need the most Laura. Dont dwell on the part even if it was good. Just remember, and look for the brighter tomarrow. Our friends and those who have had there minds hurt need us. Even if we dont think they do cuz they might have someone alse. They need every person they can get to show them love. We can help pull them out of the black pit and bring them back with God on our side Laura, we can help them."

*Before Nate even relizes what he is doing he has Laura in a stong embrace. Resting his head on top of her.*

*Katie cant help but laugh at Kyle.*

"Yes Kyle he is...and I dont think he'll ever change."

*Katie cant help but continue to laugh and smile as Jason. Standing she makes her way over slowly her cane at her side.*

"Tell them to stop? Why would I do that I enjoy seeing you turn a few shades of red."

*Katie lands a playful punch to Jason's arm.*

"I'll be back guys, I have to use the rest room."

*Katie exits slowly hobbaling up the steps as carfely as she can disapearing though the door at the top.*

So tell me

Carson isn't sure he understands what Misty means about getting him out of trouble with Reese, but suspects it had to do with earlier in the day. He lets it go though, opting to shut out anything that might bring on unwanted emotions. It was a habit - one that kept him safe.

He digs into his sandwich, the action proving his gratefulness for the meager meal. When Misty comments about the room, he takes another look around as he chews, letting a bit of sarcasm out. "Can't get much better than this, eh? What more could a bloke want? Nice concrete room, not too big...full stomach and a spitfire sitting three feet away. A guy could do worse."

He takes a swig of pop before downing the rest of his sandwich. "I'd wager right about now this is better than having been left for dead a couple days ago, though sometimes I wonder if that would have been the preferable option."

One might guess from Carson' words that he'd slipped into a depressive state, though his tone and eyes indicated no emotion...his voice was void of life...void of feeling.

He tilts back his head to finish off his pop. Taking aim, he tosses the empty can across the room, landing it squarely in the waste basket. Finished with the light supper, he bounces his leg a bit nervously without even realizing it as the craving for a smoke returns, but this time there's nothing to curb it.

"So tell me, Misty...what's a girl like you...with as boring a past as yours...doing here, taking the side of a vile criminal such as myself?" He cocks his head, letting his eyes fall on her face. "Something tells me you skirted around the truth earlier. You can't make me believe you're just another average Jane."


Laura finds her cheeks growing just a little warm at Nate's comment about not liking to see her sad. She pushes it aside though, and heads for the porch.

Fifteen minutes later, she's got a small duffel bag ready to go with just a couple day's worth of clothes and a few extra items to take over to Jamie's. Finding Nate looking at the pictures in the living room, she comes up beside him, eying the photos as well. "Interesting, isn't it...how time goes so quickly...yet when staring at a picture, one can almost travel back in time to recapture that memory." Laura's eyes drop down to a smaller framed photo of her and Con many years before...she couldn't have been more than ten...he was barely nineteen or twenty. Those times had been hard...but they'd made her into who she was today, and she couldn't deny that God had sent His blessings, despite the trials.

Laura gives a little sigh. "Sometimes I wonder where these people have gone...there was innocence once...not for everyone, but for some." She spies a picture of Jason who holds a bright smile - something not seen very often any more. Then was Con, laughing at someone's party...she wished she could hear that laugh again now after he'd become so distant. "These pictures keep me company I guess, when I start to get lonely."


Kyle laughs at Katie's enthusiasm, and gives an extra couple enthusiastic notes on the keyboard. "Thank you, ladies and gentlemen, I'll be here all week."

Phil gives him a slap upside the head. "Yeah, but what about the rest of us? My fingers are about ready to fall off."

Jason chuckles and rests back on a stool, his guitar hanging from his shoulder to leave his hands free as he flexes his own fingers. "You guys are gonna be the death of me. I haven't played this much in years."

"Her fault!" Kyle points at Katie. "She's the one who keeps wanting encores!"

"And you're the one that keeps instigating that we give in!" Mike shoots back.

Jason laughs and shakes his head. "No matter the length of time, I think we sound pretty good."

"Pretty good?!" Kyle brings a hand to his forehead. "We're awesome!"

Mike holds up his first fingers and thumbs, squinting at Kyle from a distance as if measuring something. "Yep, his head has definitely grown in the last hour and a half."

Phil rolls his eyes. "Jason, I don't care what you say, you're the one making us sound good at the moment. I never will understand why you haven't done something with that voice of yours before this."

Jason shrugs and takes off the guitar to put it on a stand. "If I told you it was because I didn't think I could make it, you'd just give me a bad time, so I won't."

Kyle glances over to Katie, a funny look on his face. "Is he always this difficult when someone pays him a compliment?"

"Hey, come on," Jason argues. "You guys are awesome by yourselves. I'm just the add-in."

Phil scoffs. "Yeah, whatever, Jase. Sure, we could be surviving on our own, but don't think we don't see your talent. We're just lucky we got a hold on you before some other band did. We know good and well it takes all of us to get this sound, so don't think the rest of us feel we're doing nothing - but you definitely add an edge we didn't have before."

Jason grimaces and looks at Katie. "Would you tell these guys to stop?"

The Rits

*Misty cant help but get a cheese grin on her face as Carson calls to her. She had no doubt in her mind that he wouldent. Turning back around once again she makes her way across the floor to Carson.*

"Well want cant have that now can we. I just got you out of alittle trouble with Reese. I cant have you being a big old bear and geting into more now can I!"

*Misty holds her grin as the fire in her eyes dance with mischife and enjoyment. Making it to Carson's cot Misty sits down on the courner edgh not wanting to sit on the ground and get her pants dirty. Once comfortable she hands the food and drink to Carson.*

"I know its not much but its the only thing I could think of bringing you that wouldent make the few people left here wonder what was going on."

*At Misty sits on the cot and watches Carson her mind wonders. It was strange that she was siting there now with Carson. When she first got the call from Reese to come and do her internship at TJY she made it up in her mind this was work. And thats how it was going to stay. Now she was breaking the rules to help someone she hardly even new. What was it about Carson that drove Misty to want to help him. He cerntly was intresting, the way he acted and the way he talked. On top of everything alse he was mighty handsome too. Misty take her eyes off Carson and looks around the room.*

"Looks like your staying in the Rits huh. I guess it could be worse though."

*Misty glance at Carson out the courner of her eye at Carson again but trys not to stair as he is eating and dosent want to be rude.*

*Nate finally pulls into Laura's driveway for the second time today. Turning off the car Nate gets out and goes over to Laura's door opening it for her.*

"I'm truly happy I could put a smile on your face and help you today Laura. I dident like seeing you so sad."

*Nate smiles and heads into the house with Laura having to use the bathroom. Once he is done he waits in the living room for whenever she is ready to go. As Nate waits he looks around at all the picturs of Laura, Laura and Con, and Laura Con and Jason. Many other pictures line the wall of differnt people from TJY. They all looked so happy. Nate cant help but smile alittle more. It was nice to see that such friendship still exsisted in a world of chaos.*

*Katie sits on the coutch in the basment of Mike's house listing to the guys practice. Her feel proped up and tucked up underneath her. Taping her fingers and even at time huming along to the music. It was nice to be siting there spending time with her friends. To get away from all the stress and just relax and have a fun time. Jamie hoots and hollars at a song comes to and end.*

"ENCORE ENCORE."