Lunch for all

*Katie's attachen goes to Scott as he sneezes and his eyes. Katie new what was happing. As Domino starts to bark at Henry Katie turns the blankets back and swings her legs around Trying to stand to get Henry but stops as Domino barks again and Henry takes off. Siting back down Katie shakes her head alittle.*

"Sorry Scotty. At least I know now for next time though to keep Henry away. I have some allergy medicen in the bathroom is you need any."

*Katie slowly stands again at Scotts offer for something to eat. Walking slowly over to her closet she picks out some clothing. Turning around she heads tword the bed room door.*

"Gives me 15 min to shower and clean up and we can go together. I think I would like that."

*Katie smiles and reaches for the remote to the tv and throws it to Scott.*

"Make you self at home. This is like me own little apartment."

*Katie smiles and exits the room closing the door so Henry doent find his way back into the room.*

*Misty smiles at Carson as she gives his arm a hug as they walk back to the main floor.*

"Lets see...tonight tonight tonight..."

*Misty flashes Carson a saucy smile.*

"I think I am busy...I cant remember but I think my hot Austrailen boyfriend is taking me somewhere. If you wanna fight him for me, be my guest. But I think he would win."

*Misty stands on tiptoes and gives Carson a quick kiss as a giggle escapse her lips. How good it was to be home.*

*As Nate walks with Laura's hand in his out the door he smiles. Now that Laura accepted him Nate was going to let her lead. He would be himself and have alittle edge, but he wouldent only go as fast as Laura wanted and he would be happy. Opening Laura's door Nate smiles before shuting it.*

"So...I get to stop fighting to pay for you food and can just do it now right?"

*Nate smerks shuting the door and sliding in the driverside next to her.*

"Lets go to Mom and Pop's. At this time of day they shouldent be to busy"

*Nate pulls out of TJY and heads down the road. Before to long Nate enters Mom and Pop's Laura's hand in his. Stoping Nate looks around for a good place to sit. Seeing Wyatt Nate smiles and gives alittle wave. As his eyes still scan they fall to rest on Con and Jamie. Nate cant help but feel a bit of a chill but knows there is something he needs to talk to Con about anyways. But should he walk up to him first or wait. Nate continplates in his mind. Should he even bother him when he is with Jamie?*

*Jamie smiles as Con slips in across from her. A pizza and breadstix were waiting on the table as steam rolls off them it is clear is hadent been long there. Standing alittle Jamie leans over the table avoiding the foor and gives Con a kiss returning to her seat.*

"Hey Hun. My day is going pritty good. Quiet, Misty is home now. It was good seeing her."

*Jamie gives herself and Con a slice of pizza and some breadstick as her mom walks over giving Jamie a refill and Con something to drink. Stoping for a moment to talk but hurrying away as its a busy day.*

"Oh ya, Reese is calling a meeting in the rec room tomarrow. Something heavy about TJY. I can tell but how he informed us. He new I was coming to see you for lunch as asked me to let you know he wanted you there tomarrow as well. So if You can get off work that would be great, and I think its really important to Reese you do."

*Jamie takes a bit of her pizza and turns her head as the bell on the door opens as Nate and Laura walk in.*

*Finally making it to the auto shop Aerith gets her car and pays. Pulling out of the shop she makes a left and just drives. Make turns here and there Aerith finally relizes once again she is lost. Pulling into the parking lot of a small restront. Figuring she could ask for directions inside her tummy grumbles. She was a bit hungry ontop of it. Geting out of her car she locks the doors and heads inside. As she enters she eyes rest on Wyatt. Today she looked alittle bit better than yesterday. She hair was combed straght and not fizzed all over. She was dressed a bit nicer too. Giving alittle smile and wave Aerith heads to the front counter and sits down not going over to Wyatt and intruding on his space.

When Mable comes over Aerith orders a cheery coke, and slice of mushroom pizza.*

Allergies

Scott's eyes widen as Henry enters the room. He hadn't known Laura and Katie had a cat. He watches Henry sniff around and get up on the bed, but as soon a he's close, Scott's eyes start to water.

Domino looks around at Henry and sniffs, but doesn't seem to care much about the cat, and turns back to Katie, begging for more petting.

Scott's nose starts to itch, his eyes beginning to burn and he stands up, not knowing whether he should take the cat out or leave the room himself. He stifles a sneeze and Domino looks at him as if wondering what on earth his problem was. Sneezing again, Scott's eyes start to get red and he takes his glasses off, wiping the tears from his eyes.

Domino takes in the scene and as if knowing now what was happening, she gets up and gives a short "ruff" to Henry, whose hair is still on end, his tail puffed up three times as big as normal. He lets out another hiss, but Domino doesn't care, and gives a little bark again, and jumps toward Henry to scare him off the bed.

With a growl, Henry retreats and hops to the floor, throwing one last glare to he bed before trotting out of the room and heading for Laura's bed instead.

Scott blinks and wipes his eyes again, looking back at Katie. "Sorry," he apologizes. "I didn't realize you had a cat. I can handle cat hair around the house, but bring one close and my allergies go nuts."

Domino goes the doorway and seeing that her job was successful, she jumps back up on the bed to claim back the warm spot by Katie.

Scott shakes his head with slight amusement. "Well, Katie, you look right perky at the moment. Lunch is going to be in a while..." He looks at her, unsure if she'd want an invitation or not...after the evening before, he just wasn't quite sure about anything between them at the moment. But he didn't want to just ignore the fact that it was time for a mid-day meal. "I can go out and pick something up for you if you want..."


Reese looks up as Misty and Carson enter, and immediately stands from his desk. "Oh, Misty." He envelops her in a big hug. "My word....I can't tell you how good it is to see you." He stands back just to look at her. "I can't thank God enough for bringing you back."

His eyes drift to Carson. "Thanks for going."

Carson feels a little awkward... he'd received a nod from Nate, a thanks from Reese...had he really done something right for once?

After giving the two a briefing about what's been happening, Reese informs them that tomorrow there will be a TJY-wide meeting downstairs in the rec room, regarding the future. In the meantime, they're free to get settled, do work, or whatever.

Carson stifles a yawn as they exit the office, and looks to Misty. "Well...I really need to go down to that apartment complex and see if they've got one vacant...Wyatt thinks they might even still have my old one available. You got plans for tonight?"


Laura gets up from her desk and picks up her purse, finding herself giving Nate a small smile. "I'm ready..." As she exits her cubicle, she slips her hand into Nate's for the stroll to the door.


Con answers his phone and is just a little hard to hear over the sound of the forklift in the background. "Yeah...I got to be here twenty more minutes, but I'll meet you down at Mom and Pop's. Go ahead and order if you want, you know what I like."

It takes him a little longer than twenty minutes, but Con is finally able to leave work, and hurries to the restaurant. Finding Jamie at their regular booth, he leans down to give her a kiss, then slides in the seat across from her. "Hey...how's your day going?"


Wyatt looks up from the table at the front window and sees Con and Jamie, giving them a little wave. It wasn't unusual to be here at the same time, though they didn't normally eat together. Today was Wyatt's pizza day and he was enjoying two thick pieces by himself, taking his time before he had to get back to work.

We are back

*Katie cant help but let out a genuine laugh as Domino and Scott perform there tricks. Finding the strength to sit up more Katie props her pillows aganst the wall and leans back giving short claps as Domino starts to get Dizzy. Once they are done and Domino jumps up on the bed and starts to lick her Katie cant help but squeel with laughter again. Katie heart and shoulders deffintly felt lighter. As the laughing continues. Finally Domino stops and Katie pets her chin and ears.

Henry makes his way into Katie's room and he hears voices. Sniffing Scott's feet for a moment he wonders who this newcomer was. Jumping up on the bed Henry stops dead in his tracks seeing the dog. Henry's back arches and his fer puffs up as Henry lets out a hiss saying he is non to happy Domino is on the bed.

Katie looks at Henry for a moment and pats the bed next to her.*

"Come here you silly goose. I havent forgoten about you. There is enough room for both of you in my heart.*

*Katie smiles at Henry again and than looks to Domino. Still pating the bed for Henry to come over.

Slowly Henry backs away his back still arched and his fer puffed out as he eyes Domino waiting to see what will happen next.*

*Misty smiles at Carson stealing another quick kiss as she enters TJY. Giving a small wave around the main floor and greeting those that were there. Misty was nervouse but new where her next stop was. Making her was to Reese's office Misty nods at Susanne and opens her uncles door. She felt wierd. It must be stange seeig someone you though was dead. Entering Misty gives alittle smile.*

"Hi Uncle Reese."

*Nate smiles as He see Misty and gives alittle wave. Seeing Carson with her and the look on both there faces he nods to him as if saying see ya did good. Nate felt good knowing Misty was back. It was lonly with out her and less than quiet. Just seeing Carson without her a well was like see a lake without water.

Finishing up his work Nate stands shuts off his computer grabing his keys and his sun glasses he walks over to Laura's desk.*

"I'm set if you are so we can grab that lunch now."

*Aerith exits her grandmothers house leting her know she would be back soon. Heading down the road Aerith follows the instructions that the auto shop had given her. They had goten her car that morning and changed the tires already. Aerith hadent been there more than 24 hours yet and her grandmother was already driving her up the wall about everything. She dident dress right, her hair wasent right, when was she going to go back to NYC, when this when that. Aerith was happy when the shop called.

Geting to the shop finally Aerith waits for her car in the little waiting room continplating what she would do next. She new she dident want to go home. Maybe she would find herway around town alittle bit, get lost again and who knows find something to do.*

*As Jamie heads out of TJY and gets into her car she pulls out her cell phone and calls Con.*

"Hey you...we still on for lunch?"

*Jamie pulls out of the TJY parting lot and heads down the road.*

Tricks

Scott grins a little at Katie's comment to Domino, then shakes his head. "Don't thank me. I needed to get out of the office anyway."

Suddenly, his cellphone rings on his belt, the ringtone a classical Mozart piece. Rolling his eyes, he answers it. "Yeah? Oh, hi...no...it's what? ....Okay, well quit the program and restart the computer. Right....well force quit it....yeah...just restart the whole thing and see if that works out the kink. Alright...yeah, bye."

Hanging up, Scott throws a grimace at Katie. "They follow me everywhere, I tell ya."

Domino gives a little yip as if agreeing.

Scott raises his eyebrow. "Oh really?"

Domino wiggles with excitement again and stands up to crawl to Scott, licking his hand. "What's that?" Scott leans down closer to her. "Okay...I'll let you, but you better be on your best behavior." He points to the floor.

Needing nothing more than that, Domino obediently hops off the bed, turns around and sits, waiting further instructions. Scott cocks his head at her. "Why don't you tell Katie how old you are?"

Domino gives two short barks.

"Hey, now, you forgot you had a birthday last week."

The dog cocks her head as if confused, then barks three times.

"Ah, that's right. Now, show Katie what happens when you ride the merry-go-round at the park." Scott lifts his finger and twirls it in the air above the dog.

Domino starts to spin around in fast little circles, finally stopping and sprawling out on the floor as if too dizzy to go on.

Scott grins. "Quick! There's a fire in the house!"

Domino shoots back up and grabs Scott's pantleg in her teeth, trying to pull him to the door.

"Oops, false alarm."

Domino stops and growls.

"I know, I know, I'm sorry. Truce?" Scott holds out his hand.

The little dog sits and offers her paw, accepting the handshake.

Scott lets her go, then sighs then nods to the bed. "Okay. Quit showing off and go tell Katie you hope she feels better."

Domino jumps back up on the bed and crawls over the blanket, her stubby tail wagging again. She goes up to Katie's face and licks her several times.

"Alright, don't get carried away," Scott chides.

Domino backs off a little bit, but stares at Katie, daring her to pet her again.


Carson leads the way to the door at TJY and stops, taking a deep breath. "Well, Sassy, it's home sweet home. There's some people here who are going to be mighty glad to see you." He opens the door for her. "After you."

What is this?

*Nate smiles at Laura and thinks for a moment.*

“Well…let me see….”

*Nate turns for a moment looking at a calendar. Than slowly back to Laura not being able to help the smile that crossed his face.*

“Well it looks like I’m free. Lunch sounds great.”

*Nate smile as Laura. He new she was trying and he would still be pashent, waiting for when she was ready. No he wouldent give up, he would be there for her always. Turning back around Nate goes back to his work to finish up before lunch.*

*Katie nods at Con and gives him alittle wave.*

"Dont worry to much big brother. I'm in good hands. And tell that mean boss of yours to get a life."

*Katie cant help but let forth a wery smile. After Con leave she turns her attachen back to Scott and Domino. Gently peting Domino's soft fer.*

"Its ok, I like the company I have right now."

*Katie looks down at Domino her voice still soft and low.*

"Yes are you a cute puppy."

*Katie cocks her head on the pillow and laughs.*

"You know say, ya your master isent that bad eather."

*Katie looks up at Scott. She was feeling better already and it was strange. When her eyes had been closed she saw a light than Scott was there, her body started to relax and the horrable feelings she was having were starting to vanish. Was is Scott himdelf that chased away her fears? Katie searches his eyes for a moment. What was it about Scott, was someone trying to tell her something?*

"Thank you Scott. For coming to see me. It means alot."

Company

As Laura's head is tilted upward and she sees Nate's eyes...feels his hand on her face...a warm tingle spreads through her.

Hearing his promise again, and feeling his kiss on her forehead, she finally manages a little smile. Straightening up, though still on his lap, she looks down and sighs. "I need to get back to work... Thanks, Nate... It...you...you mean a lot to me." She slides off his lap and starts back across the floor, but turns one more time, her eyes full of timidity. "You wouldn't...want to have lunch with me today?"


Scott smiles a little, glad to see Katie halfway alert, and finding her nickname for him amusing. She was the only one who ever called him that.

Domino wiggles her stub of a tail, her body wriggling under Katie's hand as she gets a little excited for the attention. She rolls over on her back and stares at Katie's face upside down, her tongue hanging out the side of her mouth and one paw waving in the air. Her antics seem to say "Come on, you know you want to pet me more because I'm so cute."

Scott chuckles a little and finally approaches the bed to sit down on the edge and responds to Katie's greeting. "Hey, Katie." He cocks his head. "How ya doing?"

Con pokes his head in the room for just a moment. "Everything okay?"

Scott looks up and nods. "I can stay a while if you want."

Con is tempted...if Scott stayed, he'd feel better about going to work. "Well, I don't want to..."

Scott quirks an eyebrow, interrupting him. "I offered." He pushes up his glasses. "I'll watch her for you."

"But..."

"I know you have to go to work," Scott reminds. "And besides, I don't want to go back to TJY just to fix another computer."

Sighing, Con relents. "Okay. But if anything changes, call the lumberyard, alright?"

"You got it." Scott watches Con leave, then turns back to Katie, reaching out to scratch Domino's belly. "Looks like you got company for a while as long as you don't mind it."

A Light

*Katie again looks up at Con who is standing the in doorway.*

"Con..please..you need to go to work I dont want you to lose you job cuz of me."

*Katie's mind races not being able to land on one single thing. Her mind was in tourcher as it acked to hold Jason, to slap the crap oput of him and tell him to snap out of it. Katie just wanted to be rid of the pain that was held inside.*

*A small smile corss Nate face as Laura talks, yet a certin look of sympithy and compastion was in his eyes. Laura was having a hard time with this and Nate new that. Was he upset with Laura, No he wasent is was that simple and though he was upset with Con, Nate couldent blame him. He too would probley be the same way with Maggie. Nate holds Laura for a long moment as she talks just offering her the comfort she needed as he feels her tremble. As Her hand touches Nate's face for a moment he closes his eyes just taking in her touch. It was so soft, so sweet. Opening his eyes he takes his finger and puts it under Laura's chin and puts alittle pressure on it making Laura look up at him. For along moment Nate searches Laura's eyes his emotions stairing back in his own. Moving his finger from her chin he brings it to the side of his face his thumb whiping away the tears.*

"I promise I wont give up on you Laura...No matter what I wont."

*Nate leans down and gives Laura a small kiss on the forhead.*

*As Katie's mind twists and turns her thoughts her body shakes. As Katie lays on the bed her mind in darkness a suddon flicker of light flashes. It was faint but it was there. For a moment the courners were lit. Katie can feel a presence enter her room. As Katie fell a wet toung on her hand Katie gives alittle jump. That wasent Henry's toung it was to big. Slowly opening her eyes Katie looks down as the small dog laying on her bed. Lifting her hand slowly Katie pats the dogs head and smiles. Not even need to look up she whispers as her body relaxes.*

"Hey Scotty."

Promise?

Con eases down to sit on the bed next to Katie, and brushes some hair from her face, his worry taking over. "Yeah, it's me, little sister. You just lie still and rest." Taking care of Laura last night, and now Katie this morning was draining Con's energy fast, but he stays. He studies Katie for a long moment...if ever he'd seen a broken heart, this was pretty close, and it pained him.

Rising from the bed again, he goes out into the hall and dials another number. "Hey, Phil, it's Con. Look, can you tell Leonard I can't make it in to work today? No, I'm fine, I'm over at Katie's...she's not doing well this morning. I happened to be here with Laura earlier, so I just stayed..." He frowns. "Yeah, I know he won't be happy...." He'd been warned not to take a day off without notice, and his job could be on the line for his one, especially since it wasn't him that was sick. "Just tell him and...he can call me if he wants. Alright...thanks, Phil."

Fifteen minutes later, Con's phone rings. As he answers, he pulls the phone away from his ear as the shouting comes. He was being ordered to come in to work, or he wouldn't have to bother again. Hanging up, Con stands in Katie's doorway, his frustration building. Katie would be okay...he could call someone else to come in and check on her...but he didn't want to...


As Scott works with Reese's computer, his mind wanders back to Katie. Whether the two of them had anything between them or not, he still cared about her as a friend. Did her sudden illness have anything to do with Jason? The distraught look in her eye from yesterday comes back to him. He wanted to help...but would he just make things worse?

Turning Reese's computer back on, everything comes up as normal and he hands it back off to his boss. Returning to the floor, he scans the cubicles, conjuring up an excuse. He sticks his head back in Susanne's office. "Hey, I gotta go out and pick up my dry cleaning...I'll be back in a bit."

"Okay."

Scott heads to his own cubicle, grabs his keys and aims for the door.


Laura's tears finally slow down, and she releases her hold around Nate's neck, to curl up with her head still under his chin. She hadn't been scared of his touch until last night, and now she quaked just a little bit. But she was going to stay...her determination had to win. "I'm sorry too," she manages quietly. "I didn't mean..." She swallows hard. "It just..." How could she say that she had enjoyed his kiss, when it had at the same time scared her half to death? "I told Con to leave you alone," she finally explains. "He didn't know that I...that I care about you."

Her hand reaches up to rub the wet spot she'd created on Nate's shirt, and she feels his warmth again. "I...I didn't want to...to run away." She blinks back another tear. "Half of me saw you and wanted to stay, and half of me saw Bryce and wanted to get away no matter what. And...and I felt so stupid...and scared and....and then when Con came I just gave up. I didn't want to hurt you anymore, and..." She leaves her hand just resting on Nate's chest. "...And I was just so confused."

Laura sniffs and tries to relax. "When you....when you held me like that and...and kissed me..." Heat rises to her face and she's glad it's turned down so Nate couldn't see it. "...I panicked. I didn't want to...it just...happened so fast..." A new tear runs down her cheek. Thinking of how close Nate had been...how he'd held her...how he'd kissed her.... her hand starts trembling again.

Without lifting her head, she raises her hand, blindly finding his face and running her quivering fingers along his cheek. "Please say you still promise not to give up on me."


Scott knocks on the door, looking around to make sure he's at the right house. He doesn't think he'd ever been to Laura's house before, and knew at least he hadn't since Katie had come.

Con just happens to be at the right place to hear the knock, and goes to the door. Surprised, he raises his eyebrows at the visitor. "Scott...what are you doing here?"

Scott shrugs. "Domino heard Katie wasn't feeling so hot, and she insisted on me bringing her over here."

Con is a bit amused, though slightly confused. He hadn't known that Scott and Katie were that close of friends. "Well, I don't know if you'll get much response, but she's in her room down the hall. She's got a bit of a fever and she might be sleeping."

Hoping that his presence doesn't make things worse, Scott enters the house, keeping Domino on her leash. He heads down the hall, glancing around until he finds the half-open door. Knocking before entering, he looks in on Katie, and gives a little sigh, sorry to see her like this.

He bends down and takes Domino's leash off, and whispers something to her. The little dog trots over to the bed and jumps up onto the blankets, crawling up next to Katie and giving her hand a little lick before just lying still.

I'm sorry

*Katie gives alittle moan as Con picks her up. Feeling her head hit the soft pillow she turns her head trying to bring Con into focus.*

"Con is..that you."

*Katie shivers pulls the cover up ove her more. Katie trys to think about what could be wrong, she couldent have been poisoned she'd been with Scott all of yesterday, work and home. But this did feel more than a normal cold.*

"Con...I...think I'm ok. I just need sleep. I think its just my..."

*KAtie sucks in a sharp breath.*

"...just my emotions taking a toll on me. I havent been eating much or sleeping. I'm pritty sure its only that."

*Katie closes her eyes feeling the room spin. Katie trys to stay calm, trys to push everything away in her mind, trys to relax. It was gonna be ok, it was gonna be ok.*

*Jamie looks at Scott and nods.*

"I guess so. Thanks Scott."

*Jamie walks back to her desk not to worryed. Susanne said Con was with Katie so that ment she was going to be ok. Jamie felt sorry for poor Katie and even more for Jason. This time apart must be killing them both. They were so use to doing everything together and now they had to spend time alone. Jamie could understand why Katie would be feeling crappy.*

*As Nate hears a tap on the cubicle wall he turns and is a bit saprised to see Laura standing there. Nate wasent sure if she was going to yell at him for last night or not but the look on her face told him something differnt. Studing her for a moment Nate trys to prodict her actions. He felt more of a jerk for how he acted than upset with Laura. As Laura eases herself down on Nates lap and wraps her arms around him he is again a bit taken back. Not hesatating the little bit of anger Nate did have vanished wraping his arms tight but gently around Laura resting his head ontop of hers her holds her close offering her comfort, and protection as her tears come.*

"Laura, I'm so sorry."

*Nate takes one of his hands and rubs Laura's back not caring she was geting his shirt wet. He just lets her cry leting is all out.*

"shhh...its ok Laura. Its gonna be ok."

Plea

Con is just ready to leave Laura’s when movement catches his eye. He sees a weary Katie come into the kitchen, not even noticing him. Her actions were peculiar and she didn’t look well at all. Con furrows his brow with concern and sees her leave again.

Worried, Con opts not to leave yet, and follows her down the hall. Not embarrassed in the least to check in on her, he realizes that she’s gotten sick in the bathroom.

Ignoring any form of being proper, he goes to her, crouching down next to her. “Kat…” He lays a gentle hand to her forehead, noting how hot she was. Without even waiting for her response, he scoops her up in his arms and carries her to her bedroom where he sets her down in her bed again. Pulling the covers up over her, he reaches for his cell phone to call Reese.


Scott raises his eyebrows at Jamie. “No…I haven’t heard from her…not since last night.”

“Reese, you’ve got a call,” Susanne hollers to him. “It’s Con. He says Katie’s sick.”

Scott looks back to Jamie. “Well, there’s your answer.” He frowns, just a little worried. Katie hadn’t looked all that great yesterday…emotional stress could take anyone down pretty fast.


Laura can feel someone walk past her cubicle and she recognizes the sound of those footsteps. But they don’t stop. Sighing, she can’t concentrate on her work. It was the first time in a long time Nate hadn’t stopped to say good morning…he must be upset and it was all her fault. How long would she be able to stand this tension?

This morning she’d made up her mind…Con had helped her, and had promised to be there for her no matter what…and she needed to do this. She couldn’t let Nate be upset and she couldn’t let things keep going they way they had been. This wasn’t going to be easy…but she knew if she was going to find any peace at all, she had to do this.

Getting up from her desk, she walks across the floor, aiming for Nate’s desk. Her pace is a bit slow, and she can feel her hands start to tremble. Reaching his cubicle, she taps on the wall to get his attention, and when he turns to her, it takes all her strength not to look at the floor. He looked so tired…she was so mad that she kept hurting him.

Swallowing hard, Laura takes a couple steps forward, studying Nate, hoping that she hadn’t lost him for good. Throwing caution to the wind and acting completely on impulse, Laura doesn’t say a word, but moves closer and eases herself down sideways on Nate’s lap. She wraps her arms around his neck and buries her face in his chest as the tears start to flow again. “Hold me…”

Sick from emotions?

*As Nate enters TJY he stands in the empty elavator for a long momentas it was on the bottom floor. His own mind raced. For the first time in his life he was scaired to go into work. He dident want to have to face Laura. He was ashamed of himself for how he acted last night and for how he tryed to push Laura to fast. Nate shakes his head. Maybe he wasent any better than anyone alse, but he knows he royle messed up. Bringing a hand to his face Nate rubs it finally exiting the elavator and heading to his desk. His own eyes are bloodshot as it looked like he dident sleep much. Nate hurrys past Laura's desk opting not to stop and talk but continues to Reese office. Seeing if anything new was going on with Jason. Passing Katie's desk Nate relizes its empty again. Leting out a heavy sigh he keeps his walk to Reese.*

*Jamie looks up as she hears the elavator open. It was only Nate. Jamie was starting to feel a bit worryed. Katie wasent in yet and she hadent called nore was she answering her cell. Looking around Jamie see Reese with Scott. Standing She hurrys over to them clearing her though.*

"Scott you havent hurd from Katie at all have you? She hasent called, isent in and isent answering her cell this morning. I dident know if you hurd from her at all?"

*Katie toss and turns in bed as the sweat poured from her head. Opening her eyes alittle she stairs around the fuzzy room. She felt like crap. How could she have goten so sick so fast. slowly trying to get out of bed Katie stands and makes her way to the kitchen grabing some OJ. Taking one swig turns Katie's tummy upside down and she make her way back to her room. Taking a stop in the bathroom Katie throws up. Not finding the energy to go back to her room she stays siting on the floor. How did it not figure the one morning Laura dident check on her and she felt like she was dieing.*

Yes

Nate’s words sting Laura’s ears. She’s never seen him upset like this before and it was all her fault.

Con starts to turn back around at Nate’s last comment, but he sees Jamie’s glance, and relents. She was right…he couldn’t let his temper win this one.

Ignoring Nate, he keeps walking, the three making their way back down the beach.


It’s a quiet, tense ride home. The only sound is Laura sniffing in the back seat every once in a while, though Con doesn’t ask her what had happened. They make it back to Con’s where he gives Jamie a quick goodnight and promises to see her tomorrow. When she takes her own car, he gets Laura into his, and heads over to her place. Once there, he follows her inside to the living room…

Laura felt like a little girl again as she buried her face in her brother’s chest and just cried. His big strong arms held her tight as they sat on the couch, gently offering the comfort she needed.

Finally as her tears begin to slow, Con combs her hair with his hand. “You want to talk about it?”

Laura still rests the side of her head on Con, but is eventually able to talk. “I…I don’t know what happened…”

“Did he hurt you?”

Laura shakes her head quickly. “No…he never would.”

Though Con had been made, he knew Laura was right. “So why were you so afraid?”

“I…I just…” Laura swallows hard, trying to stop the tears from coming again. “He told me he cared about me and…and I started to push him away again, and then he kissed me and…” Her eyes fill whether she likes it or not, and the tears spill over once again.

Con rocks her gently. “It’s alright,” he soothes. “Did it scare you?”

“Yes…no…I don’t know.” Laura fights to figure out what her emotions were. “I told him once that I liked him so he shouldn’t let me keep walking away because I was scared from…from the past. But then I kept pushing anyway… and…and I know I keep hurting his feelings, Con…”

He gives a little sigh. He just wanted to fix everything so his sister wouldn’t hurt anymore. He’d been through these feelings once before and didn’t like reliving them. “Laura…do you really care for him?”

“I…I don’t know…” She sniffs again. “I wanted to…I mean…part of me…I liked it when he kissed me, Con…and I tried…I wanted to tell him… but I just… I couldn’t… and…and I got scared… and I thought of Bryce again…and...everything went haywire. I…I pushed him away…wanted to run, but…but I trust Nate…but I can’t….and…I don’t know what to do anymore…”

Con rubs her back as she sobs again. “If you really do care for him, I’ll stay out of the way,” he promises. “I just thought he was bothering you. But if you don’t want him hanging around you anymore, then I’ll help. But you have to make up your mind.”

“But…but how?”

Con pushes Laura back just a little and brushes her hair from her wet face to look into her bloodshot, teary eyes. “Just answer me yes or no, Laura… do you have feelings for Nate?”

Laura’s lower lip quivers. “I…”

“Yes or no?”

“Y…yes.”

Con heaves a weary sigh. “You’re not having an easy time of this are you…”

“Uh-uh.”

“What do we do, kiddo, hmm?” Con draws her in for a hug. For a moment, he remembers all the times before after their parents had died, that he’d comforted his sister the best he could. They had a close bond for siblings, and it had remained through the years. “You’re either gonna have to let it go and be satisfied with that decision because you’re not ready, or you’re going to have to learn to trust again and move on from the past.”

“I know…”

“Which will it be?”

Laura wished she knew. She’d faced down death countless times in her life, but never had she been as terrified as this.


Con opens one eye and tries to get his bearings. Why wasn’t he in his bed? Feeling a warm body next to him, he suddenly remembers that he hadn’t left Laura’s last night. He was still on the couch, and his sister was still curled up next to him, now sleeping.

He looks up at the clock, then gently prods Laura. “Hey….Laura…” He rubs her arm. “You want me to call in to Reese for you, or are you going to work?”

Laura gives a little groan, trying to wake up. Realizing what she’s being asked, she shakes her head. “I’ll go…”

“Okay.” Con helps her sit up, then gets up from the couch and stretches. “Go take your shower,” he prompts. “I’ll make you some breakfast.”


An hour and a half later, Laura is quietly making her way to her desk at TJY, avoiding anyone else, and quickly burying herself in work.


Scott heads for his cubicle. He chose a t-shirt again this morning, but his glasses are back on, and his hair is combed straight again.

“Scott, am I glad you’re here!”

He cringes at Reese’s voice. “Let me guess….you computer is down.”

Girlfriend

*As Con, Laura and Jamie walk past Nate he cant help himself he is angry, hurt, and starting to feel like he did do something wrong to Laura. He dosent even turn around but calls after them.*

"Fine whatever, someday Con your gonna have to let you sister live her life while you live yours. Maybe you should worry about your own girlfriend as much as your sister. You seem to like leaving her hanging alot."

*Nate starts to walk the opesit way tword his own car. His anger still hott. Was he more angry at Con or himself he dident know. Was hurt, and steaming.*

*Jamie lifts her head as Nate mentions her. Shooting a quick look at Con she trys to relay to him to just let it go.*

Please...

Fire flashes in Con’s eyes as the verbal match continues. As Nate steps up to him, he meets the challenge with a dropped shoulder, prepared to swing.

Still afraid, Laura doesn’t even think, and pushes herself between the two men. Tears stream down her face. “Con…please don’t…” She turns to see Nate. “I’m so sorry…” Her voice falters. “Please…just let it go…I don’t want anybody getting hurt.” She lays a hand on her brother’s chest. “I just want to go home,” she pleads.

Con glares at Nate, but his sister’s presence helps him back down, his hands relaxing a little. For Laura…he would stop. “Alright…” He takes her under his arm again. “We’re leaving,” he informs Nate with a warning. “Back off and let us go.”

Once again, he turns to walk away with his sister and Jamie.

DONT YOU EVER!

*Nate's own anger serges at Con's comment. That was hiting below the belt. Nate wasent an angrey person or one to get back but Con had pushed to far.*

"I dont think I have messed Laura up at all Con. I take intrest in your sister and I care for her. Not everyone is out to hurt her. Open your eyes and see that."

*Nate stands tall infront of Con even though he still has to look up he wasent scaired of him.*

"So excuse me, but I will hang out with who I want when I want and I am not going to be bullyed by you. A million other people might be scaired of you Con but I'm not one of them. And dont EVER put me in the same category as that monster that hurt Laura. I'd never harm a hair on her head. "

*Nate himself steps closer to Con as if challanging him. Nate was mad, Nate was being pushed and he was tired of it.*

*As Katie calms down alittle bit she lays back on her bed with Henry peting is head. Finally Katie falls asleep as her mind is filled with many differnt things, Scott's kiss, Jason's cold eyes, Scotts warm eyes, Jason's lifelessness. Katie's world was spinning once again and she couldent stop it. Sooner or later it would be out of controll and she would fall deeper than she already was.*

*Misty nods at Carson.*

"Sounds like a plain to me. To be honnest I am gonna like geting on normal time again. We are gonna have to grab some stuff to take back for everyone though before we leave."

*Misty wraps her arms around Carson's neck and her lips touch his taking in the moment, the sun, the warm air.*

Pride

Laura’s teary eyes go wide as Nate steps in front of them. What was he doing? What was he thinking?

Con stops in his tracks, taken off guard by Nate’s stance. Being startled doesn’t last long though, and in an instant, Con has let go of his sister and stepped closer to Nate, now looking down on him. His hands are balled into fists as the anger starts to surge through his veins. “I do have a problem with you,” he returns with ire. “This is the second time I’ve seen my sister upset around you, and I’m not one to wait around for it to happen a third time.”

A whole different fear rushes over Laura, and she reaches out to touch her brother’s back. “Con…please..”

Con grits his teeth, an inner battle suddenly waged. He was fighting that monster again, and he knew it. He was angry…and it was extremely dangerous.

He continues to stare at Nate. “I don’t want this to get out of hand any more than you do, Nate,” he hisses. “So let’s end it here. Stay away from Laura before I put you in the same category as the last guy who messed her up.”


Scott watches Katie leave, then makes it to his own house. It felt darker tonight…quieter… this evening had somehow changed his outlook, but he wasn’t quite sure how.

A bark greets him as he unlocks the front door, and he keeps his foot in the way to keep the feisty Boston Terrier from slipping outside. “Hey, baby,” he croons. “Miss me?”

After taking her out on a leash and getting back inside, he flops down in his small living room on the couch. Domino jumps up with him, crawling onto his chest to lay down and licking his chin before settling down.

Scott rubs her head absentmindedly, stroking her soft ears. “I just kissed another guy’s girlfriend tonight,” he muses aloud. “Domino, am I stupid, or what, hmm?”

Her eyes look at his face and her ears perk forward as if confused by the question. Scott shakes his head. But there was something…something there that warned him this wasn’t over yet.


Wyatt waits in his jeep until he sees Aerith makes it into the house. Before her door shuts though, he hears the loud voice, making out just a few words…enough to realize they were harsh. Frowning a little, Wyatt knows he needs to leave, and pulls away from the curb. He lifts up a short prayer.


At the news of Misty passing her test, Carson lets out a whoop and picks her up to spin her around. Setting her back down again, he plants a kiss on her lips, then looks her in the eye. “That is so awesome.” A new feeling welled up in him…he wasn’t sure he recognized it… Pride?

He laughs. “I’m tempted too. But I think we better head back one of these days at least.” He slings an arm around Misty’s shoulder and starts walking the sand again. “I say we get you your ticket and play the timeframe by ear. Reese is expecting us soon.”

Orders

*As Nate watches Con and Jamie leave with Laura. Jamie had moved around to Laura's other side. For a long moment Nate stands replaying Con's words in his head a tad bit of fear runs though and chills him to the bone. Why was he standing there in fear. What was he so scaired of? So Con could hit him, mangle his face, but was Laura worth it? Proof...is that what this was about? Natie thinks alittle bit longer finally moving twords Con and the other again. Yes she was worth it. Jogging in front of them he stands causing them to stop.*

"Con if you have a problem with me why dont you tell me now. As far as I am conserned I dident do anything wrong and I think Laura can stick up for herself. You have known be for a better part of a year and you know darn well I wouldent NEVER do anything to harm anyone. So if you have a problem tell me here and now."

*Nate folds his arm across his chest. Con had bullyed him since he took intrest in his sister and now it was Nates turn to step up and not back down.*

*Katie shakes her head to Scott.*

"Please dont be sorry about the kiss. I know I'm not."

*Katie lets out a long sigh and hugs Scott back.*

"Ya I'll see you tomarrow. Thank you again Scotty. Even if you say I dont have to thank you."

*Katie gets into her car looking Scott's kiss lingering in the back of her mind still this car. it proved he cared his kiss it proved he liked her. A small smile comes to Katie face but soon is replaced with tears as she fell back into the darkness. Slowly she starts to pull out of the parking lot looking in the rearview mirror and giving a way to Scott. On her way home Katie's lonlyness returns hiting her hard. The feeling of a wall that was gone when she was with Scott was not back Causing Katie great pain all over. Finally making it home safe Katie limps into her bed room shuting her door behind her and calapsing on her bed from exsaustion.The battle wasent over, they feeling remained and Jason continues to blocking them. Knowing she was alone Katie lets out a long sharp yell as she cryed. Why...she dident understand why. Henry ambles into the room and jumps on the bed headbutting Katie making sure she was ok.*

*As the pull infront of Aerith's grandmothers place she opens the car door and steps out shuting it behind her. Turning she leans on the open window and smiles at Wyatt.*

"It was nice meeting you to Wyatt. Thanks for the Coffee, the ride, and the number for an auto shop. Well...see ya around."

*Aerith gives a wave as she heads up the walk. Opening the door a loud voice can be hurd.*

"Aerith where in tarnation were you girl?"

"My car broke down grandmother and I got a ride home."

"You got a ride hom from a stanger in this town. Are you stupid girl?"

"He was very nice and I think I have delt with rougher people than him in the city grandmother."

"Yep I was rigth your stupid. Now go run me my bath."

*The voice become muffled as Aerith shuts the door behind her disapearing from view.*

*As Misty hangs up her phone and rejoins Carson on the beach she has a smile on her face.*

"Well Mr.Banks I have some good new. I passed my test with flying colors. I got a 100%. I am good to go back home and continue to study. My house has also been sold. So...we can leave whenever now. Though I am temptied to just stay here with you forever."

*Misty cant help but grin and she gives Carson an excited hug. She was nervouse to go home cuz of the Agency but she was excited as well things would be ok.*

Torn

As Scott listens to Katie, his heart goes out to her. His face remains one of compassion. Though an element of slight disappointment naturally lingers, he tries not to let it show.

He gives a long sigh, seeing that right now all Katie needs a friend. She needed a shoulder. Not another boyfriend.

Katie’s approach and hand to his face drives him to the longing to relive what had happened an hour prior, but he resists out of respect for her feelings. Her words bring a crooked grin to his face, though he doesn’t want humor to take over just yet. “I’m sorry, Katie,” he apologizes. “I probably shouldn’t have kissed you, even if we both enjoyed it. It just complicates things for you, and like I said, I don’t want that.”

He pauses for just a moment. “I understand and…I’ll back off. I know you love Jason, and I don’t want to be the one to get in the way of that – I don’t like thinking that I’d be the cause of breaking up you two. I know things between you are rough now, but…maybe there’s still a chance. So…it’s okay.” He nods decisively before looking her square in the eye. “As far as I’m concerned, this changes nothing between us, alright? I don’t want you walking on eggshells around me at the office, and I’m not going to either.”

Scott searches Katie’s face again, seeing a lonely little girl, lost and frightened. He reaches out to pull her into a gentle hug. “It’ll be okay, Katie,” he tries to comfort. Holding her for just a moment, he then pulls away, running his hand one last time across her face. “Thanks for a fun evening anyway.” He gives her a wink. “I’ll see you tomorrow at work, alright?”


Con swings Jamie’s hand a little as they walk up out of the sandy beach to arrive at the little ice cream place. It looked like it was a fairly popular place tonight, though it was getting late enough, that most people were beginning to disperse.

As they head up to place their order, Con stops and nods to a far bench. “Hey, isn’t that Laura and Nate?” He grins. ‘We should go say hi, just for a minute.” He aims in the new direction with Jamie still beside him.


Laura’s face grows hot as Nate comes closer. His words that bring such a feeling of comfort and protection seem to mush together, and her breathing comes faster as his face moves towards hers.

She feels stiff and motionless as Nate’s lips brush hers, and her breath catches in her throat as her feet scream to run away. She wasn’t scared of him…she was just….scared to death.

Laura wants to back away, but Nate’s persistence somehow keeps her there and she feels his lips again, this time he’s not leaving…but lingering…

Her heart beats so hard within her chest, that it echoes in her ears. She can feel herself start to shake as Nate’s arms wrap around her.

His lips pressed on hers feel warm and taste sweet. Laura can feel herself slipping into a state of foggy emotions.

Tears stream down her face as she fights the fear with all her might. Her trembling hand makes its way to the back of Nate’s head, her other tucked comfortably about his waist.

She returns the kiss, tasting her own salty tears that mingle in the exchange.

Finally though, she can’t take the battle anymore. Now trembling all over, she suddenly breaks the kiss, bringing her hands to Nate’s chest as a reflex to push herself away from him. She feels dizzy, confused, her head feels like it will burst, her stomach is in knots. She wants more, she doesn’t want more. She wants to feel Nate again, she doesn’t want to feel him again. Her eyes dart to the ground and she backs up another step, swallowing hard and trying to calm her racing pulse. What was…she had to….how was she….

“Laura?”

Laura snaps to attention her eyes raising to meet her brother’s stare. Her own face was pale and wet from tears. She tried to hide her trembling hands by putting them behind her back. “Con.. what…what are you doing here?”

Con furrows his brow and looks between Nate and Laura. “Jamie and I were just…going for a walk….is everything okay?”

Laura can feel her lower lip starting to quiver again. “I…yes…yes, it’s fine, Con.”

“Are you sure?” Con’s grip around Jamie’s hand tightens without him even realizing it, and his gaze become harsher. He looks to Nate, a glare waiting in the wings.

Laura looks down again, not even wanting to look over to Nate. She felt sick and just wanted the earth to swallow her up right there. “I just…I…I want to go home.”

Con gives Jamie’s hand an apologetic squeeze as he knows the rest of their evening has been interrupted. But he’ll not leave his sister stranded. “We’ll have to walk back to the car,” he informs. “But it’s not all that far. Come on.” He holds out his arm.

Laura ducks under his arm to lean against him, her head on his chest as more tears come.

Con steers her back around, but pauses for just a moment as he faces Nate once more. “You and I will talk later,” he hisses. He turns to the beach again, guiding his sister away from the public scene.


Wyatt can’t help the pangs of sympathy towards Aerith as she explains a little more about her past. He’d been blessed with a good homelife…parents who loved him….but so many, many people never knew what it was like, and simply lived a daily struggle. There was as much to Aerith as Wyatt had suspected.

As she moves to pay, Wyatt stops her hand with his own. “Uh-uh. This one’s on me. Let’s just say it’s a ‘welcome to Nevada’ coffee.” He leaves the money on the table and nods to the door. “Alright, let’s get out of here. I should get home myself.”

It doesn’t take long to get back to Aerith’s grandmother’s house, and Wyatt once again pulls up to the curb. “Well, Aerith, it was nice meeting you. I hope everything goes well for you. Maybe I’ll see you around town sometime.”

Open Heart

.*Katie cant help but have her cheeks turn alittle red at his complaments...than going back to Jason she lets out a sigh as she leans aganst her car.*

"Oh Scott...its so complacated. Since I met Jason I always had this thing for him. Being at the ranch wit him was hard. Her was cocky and a jerk who only thought of himself. The day before I came to TJY I got so angry at him for throwing a punch at me...even if I did deserve it for slaping him... I slamed him aganst a wall telling him if he ever tryed to swing at me again i would put him in the hospetal myself. I came here, and things were pretty good. Than Jason came back and he has changed. He was a differnt Jason. He was caring, and nice, he thought of others and new how to show emotions. He opened himself up."

*Katie lets out a long sigh and jumps up on her car hood leting her legs dangle off the side. Leting out a long sigh.*

" When he first went into prison everything was ok. I told him I would wait and I did. But as the time went on everything stated to change. I started not to be able to feel him he masked his feelings, his emotions, his letters started get cold, and heartless. Than when I went to see him, I saw it in his eyes. He was turning back into the old Jason. My Jason that I cared about was gone. And now I sit here, with someone who is showing he so much affection, who lit something in my heart, the dark courner that no one asle touched."

*A small tear rolls down Katie's face*

"You differnt from most people Scott, and I like how you make me feel. I feel at peace, clam and just plane comfortable with you. You dident hesatat, you new what you wanted and how you felt and you went with it. Can I see something more than a friendship with you...yes I can. Is this the right time no. I have a boyfriend, and I need to talk to him about everything try and make him see what happend to him. Even if I am unhappy and very....ever so lonly....and darkness plagues my mind..."

*Katie voice drifts off for a moment as her tears come more. She was so lonly, and it hurt, the peace of light that had been lit in her heart she was pushing away. Katie was so confused and was hurting so much she just wanted it to end.*

"...than...*sniff*....darkness is where I must dwell for now in hopes I will see the light at the end of the tunnal and find my happyness sooner or later. So Scott, I guess I ask asking you to give me time. I know you shouldent have to wait its not fair to you, but...I dont even know what I am trying to say anymore exscept thank you Scott for pulling me out of the darkness tonight if only for a few hours thank you for that bref moment leting me see the light."

*Katie hops off the hood of the car, trying to smile through her tear streaked face, her eyes trying to hide her pain. Bringing her hand to Scott's face she runs her thumb over his cheekbone.*

"Who ever though that "the office nerd who runs into doorframes, breaks glasses at least twice a month and whose only talent lies with temperamental computer equipment"isent so nerdy to some people after all."

*As Katie draws her hand away slowly from Scott's face through her pain she trys to find humor.*

"I think I know why I like contacts on you more than glasses. I can see your eyes."

*As Nate see's Laura own tear and hears her words something goes off inside of him. He wouldent let Laura do this to herself. He couldent. Reaching out Nate brings his hand to Laura's face whiping away the tear his own voice grows soft losing its rough edge.*

"I promise Laura, I wont ever give up on you...."

*Nate's draws closer to Laura.*

"...I promise I wont hurt you..."

*Nate brings his head ever so closer to Laura feeling the warmth from her skin.*

"....I promise I'll always protect you."

*Nate's lips gently push aganst Laura's than he draws away alittle.*

"..please dont be scaired of me."

*Nate moves in tword Laura again places his lips to her and kissing her passanitly but softly with great care. Laura was delacet, and Nate was at hear a gentalmen. Slowly his arms wrap around her as he holds his ground kissing her.*

*Aerith takes a sip of her coffee before answering Wyatt.*

"I'm not sure how long I will be staying. Probley till grandmother gets better or dies. Than again if I like it here I might even end up staying. I'm not sure what direction I am taking. Most of my life has always been decied for me by my family. My mom, my step dad, my grandmother. The only one who really understood me was my dad. Now my mom acts like he never exsisted and she dident say it but I know the only reson she sent me here was cuz I look to much like my father so she couldent stand looking at me anymore."

*Aerith lets out a sigh and takes another sip of her coffee. Why was she rambaling like this to Wyatt. She hadent even known him more than a few hours and she was telling him her who life story. There was something differnt about him though. Aerith smiles at the mention of time grabing her wallet to pay for her coffee.*

"Ya I guess I should get back before my grandmother has all of Nevada out looking for me. Though I do think it would be funny."

Can't

There is no shame. No guilt. Only questions.

Scott looks back at Katie, accepting her tightening grip by holding her hand firmer as well. He draws it back from the popcorn and glances down to see their fingers interlocked, then resumes his stare into her eyes.

Her eyes revealed that she did not resist Scott’s sudden display of affection. Her smile showed she had enjoyed it. The look she gave him implied she wouldn’t balk at the idea of this one incident evolving into more.

But… Scott searches deeper. Did she not think about Jason? Even he had considered that. But there was something in Katie’s eye…a void that had not been filled. Everyone around had seen her and Jason happy and in love…they had done everything together…they had an unexplainable connection – even Scott knew about that. Yet there was something Katie had been lacking…something that allowed her to enjoy Scott’s company now.

Receiving her whispered thanks, Scott shakes his head a little, his grin returning. He doesn’t respond, but shifts in his seat to place his concentration back on the movie again, though keeps his hand in hers.

An hour later, the credits are rolling, the music playing. The others in the theater filter out until Scott and Katie are the only ones who remain.

Heaving a sigh, Scott finally lets go of Katie’s hand and stands up, stretching. He picks up their trash, and cocks his head to the exit, signaling for Katie to follow him…

The parking lot is lit, as the sun has set, the sky dark and dotted with stars barely seen against the town lights.

Scott walks slowly towards his and Katie’s vehicles, his hands hooked in his pockets, his gaze to the ground. Reaching his car, he turns around to lean against it, crossing his arms casually across his chest, and studying Katie again. He knew that his actions tonight…his words…his attitude…they were parts of him that other people normally didn’t see. But he didn’t mind revealing them around her.

“Katie…” He forces a slight laugh, almost sheepishly. “I’ve liked you since the day I got to pick you up at the airport and bring you to TJY for the first time.” He smirks, a little embarrassed. “You were claimed pretty quick though, and I figured you were out of my league anyway…you were the smart newcomer who was an immediate asset to TJY, let alone the one we needed to keep an eye out for trouble we couldn’t see.” He shrugs. “And I was…am…the office nerd who runs into doorframes, breaks glasses at least twice a month and whose only talent lies with temperamental computer equipment.”

He scans Katie’s face. “Not to mention I must surely be crusin’ for a bruisn’ for kissing someone else’s girlfriend…”

Scott pauses again. “…And yet…you’re not resisting my affections.” He squints one eye and cocks his head. “I don’t want to make your life more complicated, Katie. So if you prefer me to stop right now, I will comply without any hard feelings. But if you’re really entertaining thoughts of something between us, then…well, I guess I’d like to know before I get slugged for it.”


Feeling Nate’s hands on her shoulders, Laura tenses for just a moment, but then relaxes. His whispered words reliever her of the feeling that she needed to speak.

As he moves around her in an embrace, she feels as though she’s in the most sheltered spot on earth. His strong arms felt good and her hands reach up to hold them. His forehead resting on her sends a warmth into her veins.

Swallowing hard, Laura’s inner battle just gets worse. When Nate straightens and turns her around, she stares into his eyes, noting the tear, and feeling pained because of it. His dropped-off sentence leaves her hanging. She doesn’t understand. What were the words he was finding so hard to speak?

Seeing his face…seeing that tear…Laura’s lower lip starts to quiver again, and she reaches up slowly with a trembling hand to wipe it off his cheek. “I’m hurting you, Nate.” Her voice is but a quiet whimper. “Please don’t let me do that to you anymore.” Her own tear slips out, running down the side of her face, proving the hate she has against herself and her fear. “I just can’t do this…I've tried to win and just can't.”


Wyatt is a bit surprised that Aerith accepts his invitation, but an invite is and invite, and he heads towards the center of town. He lets the quiet rule for a while until he pulls up to the little café on main street.

After parking, he gets out and leads the way inside, picking a corner booth. Their coffee ordered, Wyatt offers Aerith a smile. “So…how long are you planning on being in this area?”

Conversation is light, and before they know it, time has slipped away and both coffee mugs are empty. Wyatt couldn’t help but admit that he’d enjoyed his time tonight. It was something different…not exciting, but enjoyable.

Glancing at his watch, he nods to the door. “Guess I better get you back home.”

Promise

*Katie looks back deep in Scott's eyes. I feeling forming in her. It was a sence of peace Scott omited. Katie couldent help but smile bigger as she looked back at him forgeting all alse. Katie wasent sure what to say but she liked the warm feeling that was inside her. The darkness had a bit of light in it. Katie wouldent run away, she would take one step at a time. Her mind screams at her about Jason. What about Jason? Katie dident know, the future was unclear. Katie loved Jason, she couldent deny that but something was changing. A storm was coming and Katie new it was going to hit fast and hard. As Katie studys Scott's eyes her heart jumps and patters. Her fingers tighten around his and her eyes dont break. So many questions run through them searching Scott's for answers. What was she doing she wasent sure. Was what she doing wrong, she dident know.*

"Scott, thank you."

*Is all she can manage to whisper as she gets lost in the sea of feelings, as Scott's eyes captavate her. What would happend next in this story of life. Katie dident know.*

*Misty turns as she walks bawards tword the door grinning at Carson.*

"You better watch it buddy. "

*Misty cant help but laugh turning around again.*

"Ok lets get something to eat before i take a bite out of your arm from hunger. Than OFF to the beach."

*Nate watches as Laura walks away. He could see the war raging inside of her. His heart went out. He dident know what to do to help. He only new he wanted to. Slowly Nate stands finishing off his cone and walks over to Laura every so slowly. Trying his hardest to not startle Laura, or cause her to feel fear Nate places his hands in her shoulders lightly. As he stood over her the smell of her hair filling his nose as she closed his eyes just standing there for a moment.Bringing his head down Nate rests his forhead on top of Laura's ehad as he whispers.*

"You dont have to say anything Laura. Its ok."

*Nate hands move over Laura's shouder and wrap around her in a comforting embrace as in the last moment of desparation he gives all his emotions to her, wanting to say more but not knowing the words. As Nate stands there something unusale for him happens. His own tear rolls down his face. Slowly Nate removes his arm from around Laura and turns her around to look her in the eye. Trying to shair his soul with her.*

"I promise Laura...."

*Nate words trail off as he closes his eyes again trying to regain himself.*

*Aerith stands in limbo for a long moment. Half in he car and half out. Continplating Wyatt's offer when is seems like Aerith was finally going to get out, she steps back in and slams the door behind her. What was she doing. Was she crazy? She had no idea who this stanger and she was opting to spend more time with him now.*

"I dont normaly do this Wyatt drive around with strangers, but...Sometimes I feel like I am with strangers at home. Anyways you dont seem so bad. Not considering what I am use to in the City. and you found my weakness coffee."

*Aerith turns quiet again looking out the window at the passing scenes lost in thought.*

Effects

Katie's returned kiss and hand to Scott's face sends him reeling from reality. Her affection was sweet and enchanting, making his heart beat faster. The surroundings of the dim theater disperse, providing the impression that they are the only two there as the impassioned exchange lasts.

But even the most treasured of moments must fade, and as the sounds of the movie come back to Scott, he gradually withdraws from Katie until he can see her eyes again. His own dance in the light of the movie, full of a thousand thoughts, a thousand emotions.

As he stares at her with a gaze he's never given any other, the reality hits him hard - in an instant, everything had changed. A simple impulsive act had flipped his world and his relationship with Katie upside down. She had just given him the most precious of gifts...the gift of acceptance...the gift of returned feelings. Should this moment never be repeated, it would remain engraved in his mind.

It wasn't clear whether he felt within himself the impact that this moment had on him. Like a small spark, it had lit a fire inside that had been buried for as long as he could remember... It was a fire that would not leave quickly... one that produced courage...the willingness to get out of the box... One that opened up doors to a broader horizon...one that proved he wasn't stuck in the same mold for the rest of his life, scared to break free. Only time would tell if he would recognize and act on this change.

Scott's fingers remain around Katie's, just a little unsureness creeping back in. A single name comes to mind...Jason. He knows that there has been tension between Jason and Katie - more than Jason just being gone...that much had been obvious in Katie's eyes lately...but had Scott just crossed a line he shouldn't have? Even if he had...he knew given the chance, he wouldn't change his mind about revealing his feelings.

The ball was in Katie's court now, and he would not pursue more until he knew how she felt. Scott knew that even if she were to never speak to him again, he'd never had a moment so sweet to cherish.

He stares into Katie's eyes, searching for what she thought...what she felt. The movie was forgotten.


Carson holds Misty for several long moments, letting himself enjoy the affectionate exchange. Finally drawing her back just a little, he gives her a sly grin. "You better get me out of here now before I opt just to stay here all day."

He moves to sit up, giving Misty a tight hug, then stands up, pulling her up with him. Aiming her out of the room, he dares to give her a teasing backhanded spank. "Daylight's burning! Let's go!"


Laura sucks her ice cream from her spoon, her eyes concentrating on the ground as Nate talks. His words made her feel warm...cared about...a little excited...happy. How could they then at the same time make her feel as though she wanted to get up and run away? Without even realizing it, she bounces her leg nervously, fighting the intense battle within herself.

She knew Nate...she did think she trusted him...she knew he cared...that much was obvious. It was obvious he wanted to be more than friends. The fact that he was willing to just stay friends made him all the more honorable.

Laura had feelings for him...she knew she did...somewhere, deep down... He was so kind...so sweet...so sensitive. Why did this hated fear keep her back? Why did she allow it to dominate her actions? She'd told Nate to keep pushing so she couldn't walk away - to force her to not let fear get in the way...and yet after a couple months, she hadn't gotten any further. She still gave him a hard time...she still resisted his affections...she still made him work at getting her to do anything with him. Surely she continued to disappoint him...it couldn't be easy for him.

What was she afraid of? Getting hurt? She knew in her mind that Nate would never hurt her...she could trust him with her life, and she trusted his intentions. But perhaps it was her heart that was not yet ready to let go of that fear. Logic reminded her that it was a silly battle, and should be easily overcome. But her emotions tugged her in the opposite direction.

Laura swallows another spoonful of the cold treat as a silence rests over them. She felt so torn...would she ever overcome this? She knew she wanted to...she knew she should...it was just taking that first step that she seemed incapable of doing. She was so strong, so courageous, so bull-headed in everything else, but this...a relationship with a man...she just felt so helpless, which in turn, made her feel stupid because she knew it shouldn't be this hard. And feeling stupid made her all the more defensive as her inner being tried to justify itself for her repelling actions.

A tear forms in her eye, making it sting and she tries to blink it away, while trying to keep her lower lip from trembling. Why was she being so weak?! She hated the way she felt. She was mad at herself for treating Nate like she had, and she was mad at herself for not being able to just choose a path and go with it. She was riding the fence and knew it...her words told him that she was willing to try at a relationship, while her actions displayed the complete opposite. She was being hypocritical, and it bothered her to no end.

Still not even glancing at Nate for fear of breaking, Laura scrapes the last bit of ice cream from her bowl and stands up, tossing the trash in a nearby can. Sighing, she keeps her back to Nate. It was her turn to say something, but what? "Thank you" was stupid. "I'm sorry you had to see what happened to those kids" was just avoiding the real issue here. "I was wrong, I'm sorry I led you on, but I'll never be more than just a friend" was what her fear wanted her to say, but she just couldn't. "I care about you too" would be nice, but that didn't want to come out either.

The tension rises with each passing moment, and Laura can feel the heat rising up the back of her neck. Her heart screamed at her for what she really wanted, yet she was fighting chains that had been locked together and rusted tight for several years. Was there nothing that could break them?


Wyatt raises an eyebrow as Aerith gives him her phone number. He takes it and fingers it thoughtfully. She was pretty outgoing for someone who'd just gotten picked up by a complete stranger. Not that Wyatt considered himself to be scary, but it wasn't the norm for him anyway.

"Well, I bet you'll like it out here," he muses. "Not as exciting as the big city, but I'd take a stroll by a quiet lake than down a busy street any day."

Watching Aerith hesitate before getting out, Wyatt studies her for a moment. She seemed a little more lost than just locationally. He didn't know her whole story, but he'd be willing to bet there were some hard times in her history...and perhaps even now she was unsure about where she was headed.

Wyatt cocks his head a little. "You gonna be okay? Would you rather go pick up a late cup of coffee or something before heading in?" He didn't normally do this sort of thing - he was usually more cautious than this. But Aerith seemed like she needed a friend, and Wyatt would rather offer himself as that friend than have her pick up on some of the bad crowds that existed in this neighborhood. Though he half expected to get that heavy purse to the side of the head for asking - he knew his intentions were pure, but he was still a stranger to Aerith.