Controll

*As Misty sits in the infermay letsing her tears run her fingers run along Carson's braclet on her wrist. She had seen the good and new it was there. Misty dident know what had happend or why Carson had done this. That was the part that hurt Misty the most. The whys that might never be answered. Misty could only think it had something to do with her.

Misty's tears continue to flow through she despritly trys to stop them. Being able to hear the yelling and the fighting n the floor wasent helping. Every inch of Misty wanted to go out there and stop this. To defent Carson like she did so many times before, but this time sh couldent. Nothing could be done to explain or rashinlize Carson's actions. This time he was on his own, at the mercy of the others.*

*For a long while Nate stands and watches Carson and Wyatt duke it out. On one hand Nate dispided Carson right now. He had hurt Misty bad after she put so much trust in him and give him everything she could. Nate had seen Misty cry and that was enough to make him want to choke Carson. And yet on the other hand he felt bad for Carson. He had started making friends here and there at TJY, but he still felt like an outcase. He had lived his whole life working for The Agency and in a months time his world had been turned upside down.

Leting out a sight Nate walks over to Carson and Wyatt leting out a sharp whistle he reaches down to stop the flying fists. Nate hoysts both boy to there feet.*

"Alright knock it off both of you. Carson you owe it to us to answer a few questions. Than you can go."

*Nate lets go of Wyatt and Carson's arm but stands behind him so he cant run. Giving him a little push to the intaragation room. Before entering himself Nate turns and looks at Wyatt sternly.*

"Wyatt I need you to controll you temper. If you dont think you can than go check on Misty and make sure she is ok. If you think you will be find than you can come on in, but I wont hesatat to throw you out."

*Nate's expresstion shows he understands how Eyatt felt but geting upset wouldent slove anything and if Misty over hurd it might make matters worse.*

Carson gets to his feet as Ashlyn is called a tramp, though he doesn't advance. Misty's words hit him like a kick to the gut, and he feels as though he's going to be sick. Never in his life has he felt this low, and it's not something he wants to endure.

As Misty kisses his forehead, he makes no move, but remains motionless, staring at her as she walks away. There is a portion of him that wants to reach out and pull her back, but he does not. It was too late. The damage was done. It was over.

Glancing down to Ashlyn's picture, he picks it up with anger. Looking at it for just a moment, he crumples it in his fist and hurls it across the floor with such force that it makes distance despite its light weight.

Grabbing his keys, he heads for the exit. He wasn't going to sit around here all day and get lambasted for his personal life.


Wyatt's eyes catch movement and he looks out to see Carson starting to leave. "Oh, no you don't," he hisses. "Not this time."

Shouldering past Nate, he yells across the floor. "Carson, you swine, make one more move and I'll shoot you where you stand!"

Carson stops dead in his tracks and spins around, noting Wyatt's hand on his sidearm. "Stay out of my life," he growls.

"It's not your life anymore," Wyatt shoots back, stalking towards him. "This is TJY business now." He grabs Carson roughly by the arm and starts to drag him to the interrogation room. "You're coming with me," he orders. "And you better have some straght answers for what you told that woman about TJY."

Carson resists, planting his feet. "Whoa, whoa, I didn't tell her anything!"

"Like you want me to believe she didn't ask you!"

"Of course she did!" Carson glares at Wyatt. "I told her nothing!"

"Then why were you there?" Wyatt shouts.

Carson's voice matches his. "Because I wanted to be!"

Wyatt yanks him toward the hall. "You miserable, lying..." he bites his tongue.

"I don't have to do this," Carson resists, stopping again. "Just let me go."

"No."

"Let me go, or you'll pay," Carson threatens.

Wyatt whirls around to face him with anger. "Take your best shot."

Pushed to the limit, Carson does just that, his knuckles meeting Wyatt's chin. Wyatt is knocked into the wall, but bounces back, tackling Carson to bring him to the floor. Before anything can stop them, an all-out brawl has ensued.

Thank you

*MIsty's eyes narrow as she stairs back at Carson.*

"Thats a cop out and you know it. When going gets rough Carson and someone calls you on something you always revery to that huh."

*Misty shakes her head as she lets out another long sigh feeling her anger build she trys to quiet it down. Though thinking this was her own fault starts to sink in.*

"I'm sorry I wasent pritty enough for you, or smart enough, or whatever the reson you had to be with that tramp I'm sorry."

*Misty starts to turn but than stops once again.*

"This ISENT who you are Carson. I saw the good in you, I saw the true Carson Banks and thats the Man I fell in love with. That man, that little boy I found is the one I will carry with me always."

*A few tears finally break free from Misty's eyes as she steps closer to Carson and give him a kiss on the forhead.*

"Thank you for even if it was a short time for shairing that man with me and I hope someday you can find him again."

*Finally Misty turns again and heads back to the infermary shuting the door and leting her tears breakefree and the pain wash over her sending her to her knees.*

*Nate just stands looking at Wyatt dumb foundedly for a moment. Than goes to the office door and stands watching Misty and Carson interact. His own anger inside him rages on.*

"Oh man...how could this happen. I...dont even know what to say. This is bad."

Bad guy

Carson focuses upward as Misty approaches. Like seeing storm clouds on the horizon, he instantly knows something is wrong. His eyes drift downward to follow the picture as it lands on his desk. His veins run cold and he just stares at it. They knew. He didn't know how, but they knew.

His mind automatically sifts through the last several days, trying to pinpoint any time when he could have slipped up enough to have been found out.... He lands on one person: Wyatt.

Not even thinking about the fact that he was now under suspicion for leaking TJY information, his ears receive Misty's words, her voice pleading with him to tell her truthfully that he had not been at fault.

His first reaction is to feel the guilt...feel the shame...feel what a worthless being he really was. But almost instantly, it's overtaken by anger so it doesn't hurt so much. He's angry at TJY, he's angry at Ashlyn, he's angry at himself, and Misty was the closest target.

Carson finally raises his gaze to see her tear-filled eyes. Those eyes that had drawn him in..those eyes that had shown him a whole new world...those eyes that could stare straight through to his lying, cheating soul.

Maintaining his composure, Carson remains seated, his jaw muscles working at the thick tension in the air.

"I warned you." His response is cold, his very being fighting not to feel the guilt. "I told you not to get involved with a guy like me." He swallows hard, the raging battle inside of him intensifying beyond anything he's felt before. "I'm a bad guy, Misty, and I like a good time." The hard steel-like gaze that he'd come to TJY with seeps into his eyes, covering the warmth that Misty had drawn out of him. "You shouldn't have trusted me."


Wyatt looks at Nate, fighting with himself not to go choke the living daylights out of Carson right now. He knew Carson wouldn't run that fast, and most likely, Misty was cornering him right now. Wyatt shakes his head in sheer disgust, unable to hold back his bluntness. "Carson's been sleeping with a woman from the Agency. How's that?"

Say it isent so

*As the information hits Misty hard her heart feels as thought its being ripped from her chesk. The tear well in her eyes but dont break free as she takes a few steps backwords. Misty slowly shakes her head though she knows inside what Wyatt was saying was true. *

"No...this...there has to be an explanation. There has to be a reason."

*Misty keeps Ashlyn's picture in her hand as she leaves Reese office and makes her way to Carson's desk. For a moment she just stands there not sure what to say. After a moment Misty clears her throt.*

"Carson....I need to talk to you. Your work can wait this is important...please."

*Misty looks down at the picture of Ashlyn again her anger still there as the tears behind her eyes well but dont break free. Misty was deturmened to be strong. Misty throws the picture down in front of Carson. Misty keeps her eyes locked with Carson. He could lie all he wanted but his eyes could not. Inside him was the guy she had grown to love and trust and that guy was the one she could see in his eyes no matter how he tryed to hide it. She keeps her voice even and soft, with the hint of hurt and pain.*

"Tell me what they said isent trust Carson? Tell me you had a good reason to be spending your nights with Ashlyn. You where threatend, in trouble with the Agency again. They made you? Tell me Carson...something."

*Misty's eyes glissin with hope, but the truth shows there is no hope she new the truth. Misty's heart was breaking in her chest and she wanted to turn and run away right now but she had to hear the words from Carson himself before she could believe it was really true. Misty waited to hear Carson's reply.*

*As Nate makes his way across the floor to Reese office his eyes fall on Misty is Carson. I look on Misty's face proved something was wrong. Something tugged at Nate's heart telling him all was not right. Finishing his walk to Reese office she steps in and see Wyatt proving there was a problem.*

"Whats going on? Misty and Carson dont seem right out there? What happend?"

*Nate feels his gut tighten bad new was on the way.*

I'm sorry

Wyatt whirls around and stares at Misty. The anger is still fresh in his eyes...not towards her, but for these unkind circumstances. A part of him wants to say "I told you so" but he knows that she is too deeply involved with Carson for him to be that harsh with her. Wyatt wishes he would have done more from the beginning to keep those two apart...if only they'd restrained Carson more or turned him in to the authorities. But they hadn't...Misty was in love with him, and she was about to get her heart broken.

Wyatt looks at her, trying to soften his tone, though it's difficult. He knows he has to tell her...it's only right. "Misty...look..." He swallows hard, his gaze shifting to the floor, then back up again. He exchanges a look with Reese, though doesn't receive much help from his father. "I...I dug up that information on Ashlyn because..." He searches his cousin's eyes. This was harder than he thought. He just had to be honest. "I'm sorry, Misty, but Carson's been spending his nights with her at a hotel in town for about two weeks now. We have no choice but to interrogate him." He pauses, hurting for Misty. "I'm sorry that he wasn't who you thought."

Why

*Misty enters work she seems in a pritty good mood today as she enters work. Stoping at Carson's desk she gives him a quick kiss.*

"Morning you. I'd stop and talk more but I have to get these papers signed from Reese and get them in the mail before I am late on my addmitions to stay here for the rest of school. I'll see you for lunch though."

*Misty throws a wink at Carson and makes her way to Reese office. Seeing the door open and hearing voices inside Misty steps in.*

"For whos done what to me?"

*Misty holds her smiles as she walks to Reese desk.*

"Uncle I need you to sigh these for me. They are my papers to stay here for the rest of school and I need who I did my intership for sign them. So if you would be so kind.*

*Looking down at Reese desk Misty see the picture of Ashlynn. Reaching down she pics it up a anger boiling in her at the face that staired back at her. Looking up to Reese and than to Wyatt she questions.*

"Why do you guys have a picture of Ashlynn? What trouble is she starting now?"

*Half joking Misty laughs and says.*

"I can take her out for ya."

Cheating

Wyatt slowly pulls into the outer edge of the parking lot, ensuring that his vehicle is out of sight from the entrance of the building. Tailing Carson had been easy in town after he'd left TJY for the night, and winding up here increased suspicion all the more.

Glancing in the rearview mirror, Wyatt sees his target entering the building. He reaches into the passenger seat and pulls out a photo from a file he'd brought from work. He'd had a hunch, and was hoping to be proved wrong. But he needed to be sure...he needed to get to the bottom of this. He'd gotten on this path from information Carson had been feeding him, apparently not realizing that he'd been under investigation by Wyatt this last week. Now it was time to find out the truth.

Waiting ten minutes and seeing no one emerge, Wyatt gets out of his car and heads inside. Approaching the front desk, he greets the woman with a friendly smile and dives into a conversation, leading into his nonchalant line of questioning. After another ten minutes, he has what he came for, and quietly slips back to his car.

Anger boiled within his veins. This was worse than he'd thought, and it ripped him in two for more reasons that one. Wyatt has to take a minute or two to calm himself before he can drive away. His hands shake as his ire builds within. He would be working tonight from home, so that tomorrow he would be ready.


...The next morning...


Carson sinks down at his desk as usual, actually making it to work on time today. He hoped no one had called his place last night...he hadn't gotten home before coming to work this morning. Taking a swig of coffee, he starts in on his work for the day, his mind only half-concentrating.


Wyatt stalks down the line of cubicles, heading for his father's office. His heels click on the tilted floor, his eyes like stone, greeting no one on the way. Not even bothering to knock, he enters Reese's office, the door remaining ajar. "We have a traitor in our midst," he states flatly.

Reese looks up in surprise, then furrows his brow. "What on earth are you talking about?"

Wyatt throws down several papers of a profile, lists, and bio information, including a photo of a dark-haired woman.

Reese picks it up and looks at it, his confusion growing. "Ashlyn Turner?"

"Yep." Wyatt crosses his arms, his face showing his anger that had persisted since the evening before. "She's a part of the Agency."

"And..." Reese fishes for more information. "How does that make her a traitor?"

"It's not her," Wyatt states evenly. "This is the woman that Misty's Aussie boyfriend has been spending his nights with for the last two weeks."

"What?!" Reese's eyes widen.

"I tailed him last night," Wyatt informs. "He went to a hotel at the edge of town. I questioned the staff and let's just say there's not a whole lot left to the imagination on this one."

Reese's mind reels. "Do you think he's been leaking information?"

"Well what do you think?" Wyatt spits out. "He's cheating on TJY, and he's cheating on Misty! I highly recommend going out there right now and throwing him into the interrogation room. This is unacceptable, and if he's leaked information, we've got a whole lot more on our hands than a moral issue." His glare remains steady. "And you better not let me in that room unless you want a dead witness for what he's done to my cousin."

Lunch

*Jamie answers her phone and smiles. Her heart sinks alittle hearing Con would be missing lunch again but trys not to let it get her two down. She new Con was busy and having a hard time at work the last few days.*

"Ok Con...Its not a problem. Maybe we can go out to dinner tonight or something. Ok...Love you too. Con try and have a good day for me. Ok...talk to you later. Bye Babe!"

*Jamie hangs up her phone and smiles. Con was down but and Jamie was sad about Lunch but hearing Con's voice always made her feel better. Standing Jamie makes her way to the infermary. Last Misty hadent been herself and she hadent seen Carson spend to much time with her. Jamie wondered if something was going on. Maybe Misty just needed some cheering up.*

*Misty sits at her desk trying to consintrate on her work but not being able to. Her mind wondered to and fro. Rick had paper work for her to work on to keep her busy but Misty just couldent keep her mind on it. She had hardly see Carson at all today and that was something she wasent use to. Looking up from her desk Misty see Jamie and smiles.*

"Hey Jamie. Rick isent here if you needed him."

"Hey. I wanted to see if you would like to go to lunch today with me? Con had to do something and cant come so I need someone alse to take."

*Misty smiles at Jamie it was nice of her to offer it made Misty feel good.*

"Sorry Jamie I cant today Carson and I are gonna go out to lunch. Maybe tomarrow or something we can go."

*Jamie nods and smiles leaving the infermary and heading to the breakroom.*

*After a few more min of trying to keep her mind on her work Misty stands and heads over to Carson's cubicle. Trying her best to smile she leans on the wall.*

"Ready for lunch? I know I'm starving."

Thin ice

Carson looks up as Misty approaches, and gives her a grin, though his eyes aren't smiling. "Mm, Chinese sounds good, and of course we're going out. I'd hate to see what wrath I'd receive if I bailed on you two times in a row." He throws her a wink.

At the mention of him forgetting the locket, his eyes widen slightly. "Oh, crap, I took it off when I showered and it must still be on my sink." He leans back in his chair with a little smirk. "I was probably thinking about having your arms wrapped around my neck instead."

Left alone a while later, Carson stares at his computer screen, though isn't paying attention to it. The sickening feeling in the pit of his stomach was getting worse, and try as he might, it just wouldn't go away. He'd done things like this before...it had never bothered him...he was just getting what he wanted when he wanted it. Why was this tiny feeling of guilt growing? And being around Misty just made it worse. He'd ridden fences all his life, but this time it was uncomfortable... Deep down he knew why...he could see between right and wrong much clearer now than he'd used to, and his relationship with Misty was different than anything he'd had before. But he'd still chosen a route that put him on thin ice...and it was getting thinner.


The persistent ringing of the phone finally brings Con into a slight state of groggy alertness. Rolling over, he grabs at the phone, mumbling. "Yeah?"

"Con, where are you?"

Con's eyes fly open, suddenly fully awake. He looks at the clock and groans. "I'm on my way."

"You better be - Leonard's on the warpath today."

"I'll be there in fifteen minutes." Con throws the receiver back in place. Mad at himself, he stumbles out of bed, finding clean clothes, not even bothering to shower. He'd slept on his right side and hadn't heard his alarm go off an hour before. Now not only was he going to be in trouble, but he wasn't going to get a lunch break, which mean he'd have to miss going out with Jamie...for the third time. That in itself made him even madder. He was sore and exhausted, and his body just wanted rest - it wasn't surprising he hadn't woken up when he was supposed to. But he couldn't keep on going like this. He had to try harder at not lying on his good ear.

Out of the house in ten minutes flat, Con dials Jamie as he gets into his car. "Hey, it's me...I'm so sorry...I'm gonna have to take a rain check on lunch...again."


Wyatt keeps an eye on Carson that morning, watching his every move. He'd gotten a couple calls on his cell phone...he hadn't gone down the hall to visit Misty but once - that was strange in itself. He'd been on edge whenever someone had approached him, and the look on his face said he was irritated. Something was definitely wrong, and Wyatt was going to find out. He'd have to wait until Carson left today, but when he did, it would provide ample opportunity.

The letter

*Misty sits at her desk in the infermary this morning deep in thought. She had passes Carson this morning but he hadent said hi. Once again he was late and in a hurry. She had noticed this morning he dident have her necklace on. Once again Misty reminds herself he was in a hurry and just forgot. Something pulls on Misty's heart and her mind screams to her to open her eyes. But Misty pushes the though and sounds of her mind. This was silly. She couldent exspect Carson to spend every moment with her. He had his own life away from her too. Misty ran her fingers over Carson's braclet. Leting out a long sigh Misty grabs some papers and heads over to Carson's cubicle before making the rest of her destination.*

"Morning. We still going to go out to lunch today? A new chinese place opened up across town and I though it would be fun to check it out."

*Misty smile and gives alittle giggle.*

"You must of been in a hurry this morning you forgot to put my locket back on."

*Misty holds her smile and scruntches up her nose at Carson.*

*As Katie sits at her desk she lets out a sigh. It had ben a while since she saw Jason and she was starting to miss him horrably again. She had done good so far keeping her hopes, and spirits up, but time was wairing on her again. Pulling out a peace of paper Katie starts a letter.*

{Dear J,
Its been a while since I saw you late and I am trying my best to keep my head high for you. My birthday will be in another week and I wish you were going to be here with me to celabrate it. Though you wont be here in body you will be with me in spirite.

I got to talk to you mom alittle bit the other day and toldher hi for you. She said to let you know she loves you very much and miss you. Once you get out she wants you to come visit. Wes and your mom's house should be done soon. They building had to stop for a few days due to some heavy rain so that set things back but the building has started again and could be ready very soon. Wes told me to let you know to keep you head up and before you know it you will be out of there.

The band says hi and they cant wait for your return. Everyone at TJY wishs you the best.

I cant wait till you get home J, when you do you better exspect me to bombard you with hugs and shower you with kisses. You mean the world to me J and dont you forget it. Well I better let you go....J dont worry about me to much I am doing ok. *hugs,kiss*

I love you always.

Always in my heart,
Katie }

*Katie puts the note in an envalope and puts it in her send out box to be picked up with the rest of her mail.*

Ten days later

Carson quirks an eyebrow, his playfulness dissolving for a moment. “You just asked me if I was in trouble. Do I have a sign on my back this morning or what?”

He lets her go and shakes his head, another grin surfacing. “Miss sass has turned into a worrywart. Better stop, or I’ll have to show you how well I’m doing… but then Rick would yell at me again.”

He rolls his eyes and gives her cheek a brush with the back of his hand. “Get to work and I’ll see you at noon.”


Wyatt leans against the wall, scanning the main floor, his eyes once again landing on Carson’s cubicle… it was empty…again. For a week, he’d been on time, holding regular hours, though hadn’t been reachable otherwise. But for the last few days, he’d started being late again. And there was more too it…Wyatt had noticed Carson starting to dodge people…he’d never been that sociable, but it was even less now.

Wyatt didn’t want to jump to conclusions or doubt Carson after everyone had emphasized trust in him…but something just wasn’t right, and Wyatt feared Agency involvement. He hadn’t voiced these fears to anyone…but today was the last straw. He was going to find out once and for all what was going on because something…something was. His gut instincts were too strong to deny.

Seeing Carson finally enter the building, Wyatt turns to head back to his own office.


Carson swaggers down through the cubicles, flopping down in his chair and stifling a yawn as he stretches. Wincing at the crick in his neck, he sighs and flips on his computer.

Glancing down, he sees the sticky note he’d left for himself the day before. He was supposed to take Misty out for lunch today – yesterday he’d bailed on her, so he had some making up to do.

Everything

*Misty smiles up at Carson.*

"Ok, But you owe me."

*Misty squints alittle bit the strange feeling coming back to her. Looking up at Carson she searches his eyes.*

"Carson is everything ok? Are you in some kind of trouble? Dont ask why I am asking I've just been geting funny feelings since I was at your place yesterday. Its probley nothing but I just....idk. Wanted to make sure I guess."

Lunch

Carson holds his grin. “Mm, but the adrenaline rush of racing the clock is so much fun.”

He pulls Misty even closer. “And I’ll have you know, I never blew you off…I simply chose laundry over you.”

Mischief glints in his eyes and he leans down to set his forehead against hers. “Lunch. Noon. I’ll drive.”

Blew off

*Misty gets a quirky smile on her face as she thinks for a moment.*

"How about dinner. That way Reese cant chew you out. You owe me dinner anyways since you blew me off yesterday."

Never

Carson stumbles a little bit as Misty knocks him off balance, but he chuckles, giving her a kiss back, and looping his arms around her waist. “Me, trouble?” He winks at her. “Never!”

He cocks his head a little. “I did see your note, so I knew you’d been to my place, though I distinctly remember telling you I’d be out.” He grins. “I had to cancel a date because of it, but I’ll make it up today by taking you out for lunch…anywhere you want to go as long as we get back to work in a decent time so Reese doesn’t chew my butt out.”

Trouble

*Misty pokes head head out of the infermary door thinking she hurd Carson's voice. A smile cross her face as she see him walk to his cubicle. A playful smile crossing her face Misty runs up behind Carson and jumps on his back.*

"I GOT HIM I GOT HIM...The wild cow girl caught her prize bull."

*Misty slips down and swings around to the front of Carson giving him a kiss.*

"Good Morning, Your on time thats amazing."

*Misty lets out a giggle.*

"After your late night I though for sure you would be late again. After work I ran over to your apt for Wyatt but ya wernt him. Where you geting into trouble?"

*Misty squintes her eyes in a playful mannor.*

Sorry

Laura bites her lower lip, trying to suppress the grin that tries to slip out. She leans her head on the open door, just looking at Nate and watching his eyes to ensure they match his words.

“Well…I wouldn’t want the neighbors to call the cops on a strange guy camping out on my porch, so…I suppose in order to avoid any misunderstandings, I should let you have your way.”

She pauses just a moment, but doesn’t invite him in. “Let me at least get some shoes and socks on.” She disappears for a few moments, leaving the door ajar. Returning, she hasn’t bothered to change clothes, still comfy and casual, having only thrown on socks and sneakers, and grabbed her purse.

“So are you ready or what?” she asks in a sarcastically exasperated tone. “Quit lollygagging.”


Wyatt answers his phone as Misty calls, and furrows his brow. “Oh, well, that’s alright. Thanks for trying. We’ll just go on with out him. No problem. See you tomorrow.”


Laura yawns as she makes her way to her desk the next morning. She’d had a good time last night, she had to admit. Supper had been fun, and so had the movie. It had gotten her to bed late though, and she was paying for it this morning…but it was worth it.


“Hey.”

Wyatt looks up from his desk, raising his eyebrows at Carson. For once, he wasn’t late. But wasn’t that the same shirt he’d worn the day before? Ignoring his silly random thoughts, he nods. “Yeah, morning. I take it you got my messages last night.”

“Sorry about that.” Carson leans on the doorframe. “Cell phone’s ringer got turned off and I didn’t know it had slipped down in my truck seat – took me an hour to find it after I finally realized it was gone. I had a bunch of running around to do, and by the time I got back to my apartment it was too late to call anyone.”

Wyatt shrugs. “Eh, well, we got it worked out alright I guess.”

“Alright. Catch you later.” Carson ambles back down the hall, aiming for his cubicle, not stopping to see anyone else.

Where are you?

*Nate stairs back at Laura. Speeking in a strong voice.*

"I'm not going with out you Laura. Your time is up, let go the way you are. I dont care what you look like."

*Katie pokes hear head out of her room and smiles.*

"Would you just go with him already man Laura.*

*Nate see Katie and smiles giving her alittle wave.*

"Hey Hero you look like you doing better. Good viset with Jason?"

*Kaite trys to smiles back the best she can.*

"Things are gonna be ok Nate."

*Kaite disapreas back into her room closing the door.*

*Nate turns his attachen back to Laura and grins.*

"Lets go Laura. I'll sit out on your pourch all night waiting if I have to. Now get your coat."

*Misty smiles at her cousin and waves. Finishing up what she was doing in the infermary Misty gathers her things and heads over to Carson's. Geting out of her car she goes to the door and knocking. Not geting any answer Misty leaves a note. "Wyatt needs you to call him. *kiss* -Misty.* Sticking the note to the door Misty makes her way back to her car but as she walks a worry set in. Something wasent right she could feel it. Pulling out her phone she dial's Carson's number and waits geting the voice mail she hangs up. Leting out a sigh she decieds to driveby the laundrymat to see if he was there. Seeing he is not Misty sighs again. He was problye at the store or somthing. The sicking feeling in Misty's tummy continues put she pushes it away felling silly. Dialying Wyatt's number she makes her way home.*

"Hey Cus. Ya Carson wasent home. Sorry I left a note for him..."

*Misty continues to talk as she drives.*

No one home

Laura looks up from her seat on the couch, lifting an eyebrow. She glances at the clock. Hiding her grin, she gets up and takes her time going to the door. Opening it just far enough to show her face, she looks up at Nate. “If you don’t get going, you’re going to miss your movie,” she states dryly.


Wyatt sighs, then nods. “Yeah, okay. If you want to stop by his place, great. I left a message, but maybe he won’t see it.” If I don’t hear from him, we’ll just have to make a judgment call.” He turns, leaving. “Thanks, Misty,” he calls over his shoulder.


…The apartment on the second floor remains dark and unvisited since that morning. A parking space sits empty in the lot, void of a small grey pickup.

Avents

*As Jason's hand goes to the glass one last time so does Katie's as she mouths "I love you." As Jason is pulled to the door Katie's eyes stay locked with his as she stands. Trying to keep her shoulders up and her head high giving him the strangth he needed knowing she was trying to stay strong. After Jason is gone Katie's shoulder slump alittle but she still trys to remani strong for Jason. Closing her eyes Katie can still feel Jason in the room and smell his unoticed by many sent. Finally Katie opens her eyes and turns for the door sucking in her tears she exits.*

*As the door opens Lockheart stands and goes to Katie.*

"Are you ok? how did it go?"

*Katie turns to Lockheart and smiles geting a tiny bit of life back in her eyes but still weary.*

"Everything is going to be ok Lockheart. Can you take me home please?"

*Lockheart smiles down at Katie and puts her arm around her shoulder. They had to work hear to get Jason out. For Katie and for him.*

"Ok Hun. Lets go."

~*~A few hours later~*~

*Nate stands and streaches it was six and time to get Laura. Standing he walks over to Laura cubicle only to find it empty and her computer shut down. Nate lets out a sigh she had left. Walking slowly back to his desk he slumps down. Who was he kidding even when he tryed to force Laura to go out with him she wouldent. As he sits at his desk Laura's words enter his head and a sence of curage thought his vains. No...He wasent going to give in that easly. Standing Nate grabs his jacket and his keys making his way to his car. Within minutes Nate is pulling into Laura's driveway. Jumping out of the Car Nate makes it to the door and knocks.*

*Katie yells from her room to Laura.*

"Laura I think the door is for you."

*Misty looks up from her desk and smiles at Wyatt noding.*

"Ya he said he needed to do laundry and a few other things. He should have his cell on him. If you want on my way home I can take a deture and stop by his place fast leting him know you need him to call you if you want."

*Misty smiles at Wyatt happy for any excute to see Carson.*

Test

Laura bites her lip as she grins a little, watching Nate walk away. His antics made her smile...it was so hard for him to push her, and as such, she knew his intentions were honorable.


Katie's stare takes Jason's breath away, and he struggles to hold her gaze. Like a warm breeze is suddenly washed over him, he can sense the comfort she offers, and he absorbs it like a sponge longing for that refreshing water. He can almost feel her, could swear that for but one instant, the glass barrier between them does not exist.

As the exchange disperses into dialogue, Jason keeps his hand on the glass. This bond with Katie...it had started out so small...almost unbelievable and perhaps considered insignificant. But the more they worked at it, the stronger it grew. Nothing could explain it, and nothing could take it away. They were connected, and together, they had a gift. She needed him, and he needed her. There could be no denial.

"I'll hang on," he promises softly. "As long as I know you're okay, the stay is bearable." His eyes plead with her to stay strong too. "I can't stand knowing you're miserable. Focus on the future and don't let this get you down either, okay?" Though he has lacked hope, he forces strength for Katie. "I won't be stuck here...I know they'll get me out."

The allowed time passes more quickly than Jason wants, and too soon the hour is up. But it was more than he could have asked for. He got to see Katie...got to talk with her...got to see her smile as she showed him pictures and filled him in on his forgotten life back home. His arms ached to embrace her, leaving him feeling so full and yet so empty at the same time.

"Come on, Stevenson."

Jason doesn't take his eyes off Katie, but slowly forces himself to stand from his chair. "I'll write," he assures. "Tell Reese I'm okay, and if you can get a hold of my mom somehow, let her know too."

He hesitates, despite the guard's hand on his arm. "I'll see you soon," he promises, despite the unknowns. He reaches out one more time to put his fingers to the glass before blowing her a kiss.

As he's guided to the door, he walks backward, never looking away from Katie until he's out of sight.


Five forty-five. Laura looks at her watch. Her eyes drift across the floor to where Nate was still working. How badly did he want to go out to a movie tonight? She was learning to trust him...but just what was he made of?

Laura switches off her computer and grabs her purse. Stealing away quietly, she slips to the exit unnoticed and heads for her car. How this would play out would be interesting...and she wasn't sure which results she would bet on...but the outcome would help her know which direction to take from here on out.

Before she knew it, she was pulling into her drive, and turning off her cell phone. "You know where I live, Mr. Driers," she says aloud. Getting out of the car, she heads inside, changing into a comfy pair of jeans and t-shirt, running around in bare feet.


"Hey, Misty?" Wyatt sticks his head through the infirmary door. "I guess Carson already left for the day, but I had a question for him that we need an answer on right quick about something happening up in Montana. I tried calling his cell but he's not picking up, and I got the answering machine at his apartment. Do you know if he was going somewhere tonight?"

Cheesy :-p

*As Nate hears Laura's refusel something inside of him gives alittle causing him to once again Coming up behind Laura he spins her chair around and puts on hand on each arm.*

"Laura Gibbs, your coming to a movie with me tonight weather I have to drag you away from this computer or not is up to you. I'll be back around six. If your not ready you go looking however."

*Nate cant help the playful smile on his face as he backs away and heads to his own desk.*

*As Katie looks back into Jason's eyes she can feel him. Feel his emotions, his pain his anger. The emotions inside Jason were great and they made Katie's heart ake. She wanted to turn away, to get rid of these feelings that hurt so much but she kept her eyes on Jason. He needed her and she wouldent turn her back on him. Jason needed her strangth and she was there to offer it to him. As Jason keeps his emotions going Katie's eyes stay locked with his for a moment Katie's vision become blurry, as if the glass in Katie's mind suddanly disapeared she clasps her fingers around Jasons. Her other hand finding his face and running her fingers along it. Bring him the comfort he needs leting him feel the warmth from her skin. Leaning Katie gives him a kiss than draws away. Katie vision become clear again as Jason's emotions start to calm. As her vision is clean again is shows the cold truth that the glass was still there infront of them. Slowly Katie looks as Jason's hand pressed aganst hers on the glass. Katie again looks up at Jason and gives alittle nod. Softly she speaks again.*

"Hang in there alittle bit longer J. I'm here still waiting. I wont leave you. "

*Katie takes her other hand and points to the glass to Jason's chest where his heart is.*

"When you need or you feel like giving up. Look there J and I will know and I will be thinking of you to. Hang in there for me and I will hang in there for you. We will give eachother strength. I love you Jason. Dont forget that."

*Katie's eyes dont waver from Jason's. As they stair deep into his soul bringing as much comfort as they can for Jason.*

Open door

Carson chuckles and agrees to Misty, sidling out of the infirmary to head back to his desk. Heaving a sigh, he starts in on his work for the day, rolling his eyes at something Reese had returned to him...he'd done it wrong again.


Laura quirks an eyebrow at Nate as he orders her to the movie, then turns around and asks please. She can't help her grin, but calls to him as he comes back by. "Sorry, but I've got too much work to do today...I'll be working late, and then I'll be beat, I doubt I'd be much company at a movie." She keeps her eyes towards her computer, talking over her shoulder.


No words seem right...nothing Jason can think of wants to come out of his mouth. Seeing the tears in Katie's eyes cut him to the quick, seeing how she's suffered through all of this too.

Looking at her hand on the glass, he slowly puts his hand up to hers, his broader palm and longer fingers hiding hers from his view. The warmth of their skin warms the glass, giving a false sense of touch.

Jason just studies Katie's eyes. "I've missed you too," he says quietly. But he can see her suffering...she needed to feel him to reassure her of his presence...she had felt his pain, but he'd desperately tried to mask it for her this last month. ...But he couldn't hide from her. He couldn't keep her in the dark. She needed him to let her see inside.

Sending his piercing gaze into Katie's eyes, he consciously lowers his walls. Like a movie playing, he purposely cycles through the emotions that have plagued his heart this last month. The scenes brought to mind bring forth the driving feelings...his sheer pain at being apart from the ones he loved...the frustration at being behind bars...the fear of the other inmates...the desperation to get out...the anger towards the Agency...the hate of the system...the depression of nights filled with nightmares.

Jason's pulse quickens and his breath grows shallow as he forces himself to relive the emotions, his eyes still locked on Katie's. Words could not express what he had gone through, but Katie would know.

Slowly Jason calms his heartrate, beginning to feel the longing to hold Katie again...the hope that kept him alive in here...the peace of now knowing that she was okay...the confidence that his friends would get him out of here...the love that sustained his heart...

Exhausted from running the gamut of emotions, Jason blinks, breaking the moment. His new stare holds, begging Katie to be assured he is okay.

Thick Glass

*Musty smiles at Carson and nods. Stoping to think for a moment. Carson never talked about any of his friends outside of The Agency. She addmits to hersefl that she is a bit saprised but lets the feeling pass trusting Carson to do whats right.*

"Well doing laundry is imporant so I guess."

*Misty gets a saucy smile on her face and thinks for a moment.*

"Like could be good if you dont mind. Till than I know I got alot of studing to do. That test I was telling you about is coming up. So...let up from not till lunch Rick dosent have alot for me to do. So untill that lunch stay out of trouble will ya."

*Misty smiles and gives another kiss before turning and heading back to her desk.*

*Katie sits behind the glass waiting for Jason to come. She was nervouse and excited to see him. It had been alittle mover a month since the last time she saw him And how she missed him.

As Jason appears Katie's heart jumps at seeing him. Most would think he looks so differnt, skinny noew, a differnt hair cut, but in Katie's eyes she still looked like Jason. The Jason she loved. For a moment Katie cant speak ver voice lost as her eyes scan over Jason. Now seeing him she relized just how much more she had missed him. Katie wanted to touch him, cress his face, touch his lips be able to give him a hug. But she new she couldent. Finally finger her voice Katie spreaks softly knowing her voice comes out in quivers as her tears well in her eyes. Everything she planed of saying and talking about flew out the window the moment she layed eyes on Jason. Katie gives the best smile she can for Jason's sake.*

"Hey J. Its good to get to see you again. I've missed you so much."

*Katie studys Jason for a long moment trying to find the words to say.*

"I'd ask you how your doing but I think I already know the answer to that....Oh J...I dont know what to say but I'm just happy I got to see you. I've been so lonly and I can imagen its been 10x worse for you. I cant wait till this is all over."

*Slowly Katie slips her hand up and press it aganst the glass. She knows its not the same as it would be for Jason but that closeness she yerned for it. Even if there was a thick peace of glass behind her hand to Katie it dident matter.*

*Lockheart waits outside the desanated room for when Katie is done. She new Katie wanted as much alone time with Jason as she could get and Lockheart understood that.She was happy that even if glass proved a barrer between the two they would still feel close to one another and to see the little spark Katie had in her eye this morning was good.*

*Nate fiddles around his office signing papers, going over files, sifting though old case files. Reaching for a marker his hand finds non. Looking up he relizes he is out. Lets a sigh out Nate stands and heads for the sapply closet. As he pass Laura's desk he stops and smile. Before he speaks he thinks what to say. Order dont ask Order.*

"Laura, your gonna come out to a movie with me today."

*Nate starts to walk away and for some reson ordering her dident seem right. Stoping he turns back around to her once again.*

"Please."

*Again he makes his way to the sapply closet feeling better now. No matter how Nate tryed he was still having a hard time ordering Laura to do stuff wth him. Every time he did he felt bad, but its what she wanted so Nate tryed anyways.*

Raincheck

A grin spreads on Carson's face as Misty approaches him. He puts his arms around her, returning the kiss. "Mm, rough night." He rests his head against hers, looking her in the eye as he holds her. "Had an old buddy of mine over last night," he admits. "He kept me up later than planned."

He straightens up a little. "Not part of the Agency," he assures quickly before any assumptions are made. "Then my alarm didn't go off so it was mad dash just to get here when I did." He rolls his eyes. "I'm sure I'll get yet another warning from Reese about it."

After sealing another quick kiss, Carson lets Misty go, to head back to his own desk. He stops in the doorway though, turning back around. "Oh, hey, can I take a raincheck on dinner tonight? I know we were gonna go out, but I realized this morning I gotta go to the laundromat sometime, along with running a couple other boring errands. Or, we can do lunch today instead if you want."


"Hey, Con!" No answer... "Con! ...Conrad!"

Con finally turns his head from the mess of two-by-fours he was stacking. "Huh?"

Leonard puts his hands on his hips. "I've been yelling at you for the last three minutes."

"Sorry." Con turns completely around, feeling bad every time he hadn't heard someone.

Leonard sighs a little. "Anyway, I need you at the other end today, Jake called in sick."

"Again?"

"Yep."

Con's shoulders drop a little. It had started out as an easy day...but Jake was the one that was going unload the lumber from the truck today, and half of it hadn't been secured during transit which meant it was a mess and the forklift wouldn't be much help. It was going to have to be done by hand...and they always came to him first. "Alright," he relents. He didn't have much choice. "Soon as I'm done here, I'll get on it."


Lockheart and Katie are accepted without problems, and a guard escorts them down a short hall into a secure room. There are several small 'stations' with half walls for a minimum amount of privacy between visitors. Each narrow section is divided from the other side by a counter-like table to sit at, with a glass partition, allowing for speech but no physical contact with inmates, for security sake.

The guard gestures to a chair that Katie can sit at and wait until they bring Jason in...


"Stevenson!"

Jason looks up from the corner of the outside basketball court where he'd been sitting by himself for the last hour. "What?"

"Visitor," the guard barks. "Come on."

Jason gets up slowly, not quite sure what was going on. He knew sometime around here he might get to see somebody...it was probably Lockheart. He didn't dare hope for good news on the case.

Trudging in front of the guard, he knows which way to go, taking turns without having to be told. The compound had become familiar enough that he could make his way around with his eyes closed if he wanted to.

Heading for the visitor's room, he tries to walk a little straighter, attempting to look better than he felt. Still sporting a short haircut, he knew that wasn't the only thing that made him look different than a month ago... He'd lost a lot of weight, forcing him to wear a belt, and his face had grown thin. Though keeping in fair shape by way of the weight room, his broad shoulders were now a contrast to his wiry frame.

Nevertheless, he takes a deep breath before entering the room, pulling out one of his masks to prove he was just fine.

Led inside, he's pointed to the corner and left alone, the security cameras the only eye kept on him. Ambling across the floor, he finally makes out the face behind the glass pane. Suddenly his heart stops, and all masks crumble.

Katie.

Stopped in his tracks, he simply stares. He hadn't expected her...he hadn't prepared to see her. Emotions build up rapidly, threatening to erupt. His legs yearn to run to her...his arms long to hold her...his heart screams at him in anger for being caged in without the ability to do so.

Jason swallows hard and moves forward again, his eyes still on Katie. A rush of joy, relief and sadness hit him all at once, confusing his heart and mind in a torrent of conflicting feelings. Easing down into the chair, he finally manages the best crooked grin he can offer, his voice quiet and hoarse. "Hey, Hero."

Intisapation

{Time slips away the grains of sand through ones fingers. Time is free, but it's priceless. You can't own it, but you can use it. You can't keepit, but you can spend it. Once you've lost it you can never get it back. So one must move on and hope for the best...and so the time in Navada and Texas did just that. It moved on waiting for no one and before anyone new it a months time was gone.}

*Katie's eyes flutter before they open. For along moment after Laura leaves Katie just looks around her room as the sun beams in. Finally the words Laura spoke before she left sand in. Today she was going to get to see Jason. Her heart raced with excitment. A month was ages in Katie's mind. Jumping out of bed she rushs around taking a shower, geting dresses, geting something to eat. Finally she was ready. Placing her sunglass on and placing her keys in her hand Bag Katie remembers some pictures from her room to show Jason. Ones of Carson and Misty, Laura and Nate, Con and Jame. Katie though Jason would like to see them. She even had some of Jetstream with Jen holding up a we miss you sign. Puting them in her purse as well. Looking at the clock Katie notes it 8:40. Lockheart would be there soon and they would be on there way.*

*Lockheart drives down the road a certin excitment of her own running thought her. Today was the long awaited day for Katie to see Jason. She new they both missed eachother very much and it would do them good. Lockheart herself was excited to see him and see how he was doing.

As Lockheart pulls into Katie's driveway it takes not time for Katie to exit the house and get into the car. Pulling out again they are on there way to the jail. Lockheart fills in Katie how things will go. She also informs Katie she is not sure how long they will let they stay and talk, but she dosent exspect it to be over an hour.

After about three hours the jail finally comes into view. Katie's heart starts to beat faster and her tummy does flip flops. She was excited to see Jason but a bit scaired too. After Lockheart parks the car Katie steps out and waits for her to exit as well.

Making sure she has everything she needs Lockheart steps out of the car as well and steps alongside Katie leting out a long sigh of her own. Both ladys make there way to the door. Once inside Lockheart stops at the desk and informs them they are here to see Jason.*

*Misty looks up from her desk as Carson peeks in. Smiling up at him. Lifting her hand she points a playful finger at him leting Carson's barlet jinggle on her wrist as she points.*

"I am early and you are late again."

*Standing she smiles and goes over to Carson puting her arms around his neck and stealing a quick kiss from him.*

"What am I going to do with you Carson Banks? How come you were late again today?"

*Misty cant help but hold her smile as she keeps her arms around his neck. The last month had passed so fast and Misty had enjoyed every moment of it with Carson. Soon her test would be coming up that ment the end of her internship and she would be staying in Navada to finish out school. She had everything she wanted here now. There was no way Misty could leave it all behind now.*

*Jamie makes her way acorss the TJY floor giving a small wave to Nate as she pass. Heading to her desk she lets out a long sigh. There was another pile of paper work on her desk. Its seemed in the last month the paper work was coming in more and more. The bases for TJY that were scattered about seemed to be much busyer than normal. Seeing as the Navada base was headqourters there paper work came there and that ment more work for Jamie. She was happy she had Katie to work with her though or she would never get anything done.

Siting down at her desk she starts to sort through the pile. Opening envilopes and sorting papers in todo piles so she could get everything done at one time. Quickly Jamie jots down on a post it to call Con around noon and see what he was doing for lunch. Over the last month is Jamie wasent at work she was with Con. It just seemed a normal rutean now to be with him and Jamie loved it. Her best friend had become so much more and it felt so good.*

*Wes lets out a yawn and rolls over in bed streching an arm out to wrap around his sleeping wife. Only to be greeted by the empty space where he new she had layed the night before. Siting up in bed Wes throws on a t-shirt and makes his way to the kitchen smelling the new brewed coffee knowing Cindy was there somewhere. As Wes pours his coffee his mind goes back over the last month. Shortly after Cindy and he were married Rosetta had cleaned up the unused bunk that was more of a min hour for Cindy and Wes to use till the own home was complete. It was tiny but it fit for right now and Wes was happy. His simple life had seemed to have gotten so much better. Taking his coffee mug in his hand he makes his way to the open door and looks out. A smile crossing his face as he see Cindy siting on the step. Opening the door it squeeks alittle than shuts. As Wes sits down on the step he slids his free arm around Cindy giving her a quick kiss.*

"Good Morning. I was thinking if you havent eaten already I could make us some breakfest."

*Wes keeps his arm around Cindy as he leans his head aganst her and looks out over the ranch where people were starting to wake and move about ready to start the new day. Leting out a content sigh Wes couldent picture a place he would rather be. Soon they would be in there new home, they would start collecting fernature, they already had a few pictures painted by Wendy to hand around there place, and some other items given to they for there wedding. Everytime Wes though about another thing he could do with Cindy, and the moments they would get to shair together his heart raced like they did the first moment he layed eyes on her. It seemed so long ago, yet like it was just yesterday and the feeling was still there never changing and Wes new it never would. Cindy was the woman he would spend the rest of his life with and he couldent ask nor did he want anything but that.*

Time

Clint laughs and turns back around. “Thanks, Angel.”
Heading to the shop he finds Wendy, amused that they’d crossed paths. “Alright, Beautiful, I’m ready.”

The evening is fun, peaceful…enjoyable. Clint treats Wendy to dinner and then a movie, going out late for ice cream before finally returning back to the ranch. By that time, most everyone is already in bed, so they part, Clint simply giving Wendy a kiss on the cheek, and promising to see her tomorrow.


Laura gives Nate a sidelong glance every once in a while as he nudges or teases her, showing amusement, but not returning the actions, only giving in to the smiles he prompts from her.

As Con receives the ice cream to his face, he stops, his jaw dropping in mock shock. Throwing an arm around Jamie, he brings her head close and gives her a kiss, rubbing his face on hers as he pulls back, smearing the ice cream on her as well.

Carson grins a little at Misty. “Yeah, well, the wheels will suffice.” Hearing the laughter, he looks to the nearby table, seeing the others apparently still having a very good time. Swallowing his unexplainable nervousness, he nods to Misty. “Alright, Sassy, lead the way.”

Though welcomed, Carson still is a bit awkward, though tries his best to join in the fun of the group. When they part ways, he takes Misty in his new ride back to TJY for her to get her own car and go home for the evening. Parting with a kiss, Carson winds up back at his apartment, tired, but having a strange feeling of peace somewhere deep down.


Time has a way of evading even the most avid of trackers, who are bent on saving it, preserving it, using it or trying to slow it down. But no matter what, it passes, paying no heed to human efforts to manipulate it. Hours morph into days, days into weeks, and weeks soon become a month, providing but a window in the mind to look back and realize what has passed without so much as slowing down…

JetStream: Contacting Katie soon after Con’s return to town, it’s explained that they didn’t realize the severity of the situation, and were afraid to try contacting Katie, for fear of doing something wrong with TJY information. Kyle had to sheepishly admit that he’d misplaced Katie’s cell phone number, not to mention his truck had been in the shop, preventing him from driving anywhere. Schedules for the band to play are light, without a strong effort to promote until they know the future better.

Carson: Though still struggling to fit in at TJY, settling into his job does come eventually, providing him with opportunities to mingle a little bit more and interact outside of work. Though keeping to himself most hours away from the office, in and around, he spends most free time with Misty. Getting into trouble with Reese is a given, however getting fired just doesn’t ever happen.

Con: Removed from TJY, he keeps tabs on Jason through Laura or Katie. Despite no longer working at the office, he comes for frequent visits, joining his friends and sister for lunch, or just hanging out over break times in order to keep up the relationships he has. His efforts to help Katie remain, though he worries about her. Spending time with Jamie is a given, and most evenings are spent together out to eat and afterward. Now working at the local lumberyard, he is growing a bit weary with the physical work, though has built a relationship with Phil, proving to be a benefit to both. Enough trust is built that Phil offers to take Jason’s motorcycle out to Mike’s for safe keeping, and Con agrees.

Laura: Work remains her priority as the days go by. Her fears of Bryce are not realized as she does not see him around town, and eventually her peace of mind returns. Most interaction with Nate occurs at the office, rarely venturing out for evening excursions, but most of the time heading home for early bedtimes as tiredness wears on her.

Jason: As a month passes, he resolves that he most likely will not be getting out any time soon. Getting picked on by some of the other inmates is a daily routine that he continually tries to ignore. Secretive meds at night are what keep him asleep…usually an emotionless, dreamless sleep that place him in a void through the night. Weary from day-in and day-out routines, each day mixes with the last and the next, and time doesn’t seem to matter very much anymore.


…And so it is that the present has become the past…a mere reflection of what has occurred, reminding us that ironically everything changes, yet some things never change…


“Psst….Katie…” Laura opens the bedroom door a crack. “I’m off to work…” She smiles big. “You get to go see Jason today, hun. You might want to get up for that…don’t forget Lockheart’s coming at nine.”


Carson trudges into TJY, late for the third day in a row, a bit disheveled and downing a cup of coffee.

Wyatt passes him on the main floor and gives him a humorous smirk. “Late night?”

“Mmm.” Carson mumbles as he swallows the last bit of coffee, throwing the styrofoam cup in a nearby trash can. “Alarm didn’t go off. I got ready in five minutes this morning.”

Wyatt chuckles and shakes his head. “That’s what they make new ones for.”

Carson gives him a rueful grin and slides into his cubicle, sitting down and flipping on the computer. The necklace Misty gave him is tucked under his shirt as usual, though today he’s unkempt enough to consider going back home at lunch to take a nap.

While his computer starts up, he stands back up again and heads down the hall, sticking his head around the corner of the infirmary door to spot Misty, giving a wolf whistle. “Hey, early bird.”


Con slaps his alarm clock and groans, rolling out of bed. His shoulder was still sore from the beams he’d carried the day before, and today wasn’t going to be much better. He was glad for the exercise his job provided, but it was rough on the body, and the lumberyard took advantage of his height and size, putting him to work on most of the physical tasks.

On his way out the door a while later, he makes a mental note to call Jamie to see if she wants to get together for lunch today.


Cindy sits on the porch of Wes’ place near the shop, a coffee cup cradled in her hands. Though the days were warm now, this morning was a bit brisk, and the hot drink felt good. She leans her head against the railing, sighing with content. She could hardly believe she’d been Mrs. Henson for a month now. It was a feeling she couldn’t get over, nor did she want to. She was living a fairytale, and as far as she was concerned, it could stay that way. In a few weeks the house would be finished, and her new life would simply get even better, though it was hard to imagine how. Smiling to herself, she waits for the sun to rise, knowing that Wes would probably come out soon, wondering where she’d gone to.

Poop

*Wendy makes her way across the lawn and to the shop entering seeing if Clint was around there first.*

*Angel goes to the door hearing someone coming up the steps. Opening the door and seeing Clint a smile crosses Angel's lips.*

"Sorry Clint, you just missed her. She went looking for you. I believe she was walking twords the shop."

*Angel leans on the doorframe.*

*As Katie sits with Con and the other she turns her head twords the icecream shop. Geting a mental immage of when her and Jason had been here. As quick as the memorie enters her mind it leaves again as a single tear rolls down her cheek and Con toss a new joke making her smile and laugh again.*

*Nate sits across from Laura teasing her here and there Laughing with the other. Everyonce and a while bumping Laura's foot with his own. Giving her a smile.*

*As Jamie goes to bite her icecream and Con elbows her she thorws him a look and grins. As he goes to bite his own Jamie hits his hand and smushes his icecream into his face. Jamie rours with laughter.*

*Misty sits with the other staying quiet. Now and than chiming in with a joke or a laugh. She dident know these people and she dident want to over do it with being herself.

As Misty hears a truck pull she she looks up from her ice cream. As she studys is she see a family you person get out of he car. Standing she smiles and waves at Carson. Running over to him.*

"You made it after all. Nice ride."

U-turn

A dirty shirt flies across the bunkhouse room along with Clint’s off-key, mumbled singing. Grabbing the nearest shirt from the closet that looks decent, he throws it on, preceding his good black jeans. After buttoning up the black shirt and tucking it in, he slaps on some cologne, runs a comb through his wet hair and heads out the door, skipping down the steps, a borrowed set of keys jingling in his hands.

Jumping up onto Angel’s porch, he knocks on the door.


The six make their way out of TJY and take Con’s and Nate’s cars, heading for the ice cream place at the edge of town. Arriving, there aren’t too many other people, so it’s quick to order and find a round table with six chairs outside to sit and gab. Talk is kept light, and laughter is frequent. Con sits between Jamie and Katie, teasing them both in turn to bring more laughter.

Taking a lick of his cone, Con elbows Jamie, bumping her arm that holds her ice cream just as she’s trying to take a bite. He looks to Laura with innocence, and she rolls her eyes, though can’t help her giggle.


Reese emerges from his office and scans the main floor, his eyes widening. “Where on earth…”

“Playing hooky,” Wyatt informs dryly as he looks at some papers. A grin tweaks his mouth. “I believe Con was the ringleader, so there’s not a whole lot you can do.”

Reese throws his arms up in the air. “How can I run a place with no staff?”

Wyatt chuckles. “Well I’m here…and Scott… Sapphire… Trish… Hal… Rick… what more do you want?”

Reese rolls his eyes. “Nobody cares what I think. Why do I even need to be here? Everybody just does what they want!” He turns around and goes back into his office.

Wyatt just laughs and shakes his head.


Carson ambles down the sidewalk, heading for the car dealership that’s only about ten blocks away. He takes a deep breath of the outside air, noticing for the first time that his lungs seem to be clearer now…maybe he could resume his morning jogging routine.

Reaching the dealership, it isn’t too hard to find what he’s looking for…there wasn’t much that was in his price range. Within an hour, he’s driving out of the lot in a small two-seat, gray pickup. It had a few miles on it, and it had a lived-in look, but the engine was in good shape, and it would serve its purpose.

Carson heads for his apartment, parking on the curb, but keeps the motor running. For some reason, he doesn’t shut it off. He just sits contemplating…his mind was going a million directions at once, landing on nothing. Why did he keep thinking about the group from TJY? Something pulled him…something was like a magnet, drawing him back. But surely they’d all be dispersed by now…

Disgusted at his own indecision, Carson puts the pickup in gear and pulls back out, doing a U-turn and heading to the edge of town. He was crazy…but ever since he’d met Misty, that seemed the norm.

In minutes, he’s pulling into the gravel lot at the ice cream place. Parking, he shuts off the motor and sighs deeply. It was bad enough he’d been asked to go with the group, if they were still here, he’d be making an entrance – which was worse?

Getting out, he shuts the door and scans the outside tables, unsure if anyone is even still there.

The Talk

*Wendy giggles as she steps away from Clint her eyes having a certin twinkle in them.*

"Well I will have to keep in mind when Cindy and Wes get back about asking for an assistents assistent job."

*Wendy takes a few steps back from Clint and smiles.*

"I am gonna go wash up and than we can go out. I think you should do that same. Some how you got grease on your face."

*Wendy giggles and heads out of the shop aiming for her house.*

*Misty looks down at Carson as he declines. A certin sadness and hesatence showing in her eyes. She dident want to go by herself but Carson's own eyes reflected that he would be upset if she dident. *

"Ok...I'll go."

*Misty bends down and gives Carson a hug whispering.*

"You better come see me tonight."

*Misty smiles and runs her hand along Carson's face as she turns to leave and join the others.*

*Katie stays close to Con and Jamie trying her keep her spirits high. The should be a fun time and she wanted to make the best of it. Ice Cream always helped everyones problems right. Katie could only hope that maybe a bit of laughing would do her good.*

*Wendy runs about though the differnt rooms franticly looking for something to wair. In and out of the bathroom trying to make her hair look ok. In and out asking Angel is she looked ok.

Angel watches her daughter run around between the rooms. A questioning look on her face. Finally she cant take it any longer.*

"Wendy...its not like you havent gone out places with Clint before whats so differnt this time."

*Wendy enters the bedroom again and than out to the bathroom.*

"Nothing mom...nothing at all."

"Than why on earth are you so frantic? and acting like a chicken with your head chopped off"

"I'm not."

*Wendy comes out of the bedroom with a pale blue sundress on and white sandles.*

"Hows does this look?"

*Angel eyes her daughter.*

"You look the same as the last 4 you tryed on you look fine."

*Wendy runs back into the bedroom. A few moment later the sound of draws slamming.*

"MOM...I cant find it where is that white shall?"

*Angel rolls her eyes. Something was differnt with her daughter but she couldent put her finger on it.*

"Wendy you dont need the shall you look fine how you are."

*Wendy comes out of the room again looking at her mom.*

"But mom...."

*Angel holds a finger up to her daughter as she stands and walks over to her puting her hands on her shoulders. Looking her in the eyes a smile forms on Angel's lips. So thats what it was.*

"Mom...why are you looking at me like that?"

"hmmm...oh..sorry. I was just remembering."

"Remembering what?"

"The first time I was kissed."

"How did you know? Am I that obveouse?"

"Hunny I am your mother I am ment to be able to tell these things. Not to mention just everything about you seems...brighter."

*Wendy's cheeks turn a slights shade of red.

Angel steps away from her daughter for a moment and goes into her own bedroom. After a few moment she emerges with a string od pearls she puts around Wendy's next.*

"You look wonderful and Clint is going to think so too. He's liked you this far just be yourself and he will like you even more. Now go have fun."

*A smile forms on Wendy's face as she gives her mother a hug.*

"Thanks mom."

*Wendys exits the house and goes to find Clint. Giving a sigh Angel walks back over to her desk and sits down. Picking up a picture from her desk Angel smiles. It was a picture of Wendy at age 4. How she had been unexspected, and so little. And how Angel loved every moment with her. God truly did work mericles. It seemed like just yesterday Angel was holding Wendy in her arms and now....now her baby was grown up and making her own choises. Angel was confadent that Wendy would always make the right chooise. And Clint was a great guys. She couldent think of anyone alse she would rather see Wendy with.*