Who

*Misty can't help the smile forms on her face as she listens to Carson. It was always good to hear his voice. Though a bit of consern emerges insid eof her as the background noise can be hurd. Trying to pushing away the emotion that grew Misty convinces herself she trusted Carson.*

"So are you doing anything fun and exciting? How was work? Busy again?"

*Misty always loved talking to Carson. It's was probley one of her favrote pass times. Now that things were going pretty good and Carson was keeping his noise clean she loved it even more. To her Carson was everything and she want to make sure his own day went well before assuming.*

*Jess looks over to Carson and quirks an eyebrow.*

"Are you going to play cards or keep talking on your phone? It's your turn again."

*As Misty hears the voice in the background her curosite increases.*

"Who was that?"

Playing cards

Carson sits back for several minutes and watches the three interact. He found the scene a bit humorous, and crosses his arms casually, studying the words and actions.

At Jess' offer for him to play, he shrugs and downs the rest of his beer. "Sure. Why not?" If he went home, he'd be bored. He was a bit tired right now, but doing something here was a more appealing thought than going home. He was here...why not stay just a while?

Walking to the table, he turns a chair around to straddle it, sitting between Peter and Velvet, who brings several more beers for the small bunch. As Jess shuffles and starts to deal, Carson's phone rings. He's tempted not to answer, but he recognizes that ring tone. Taking the cards in one hand, and the phone in the other, he nods to the group to signal keep playing even though he had a call.

Hearing Misty's voice, he smiles a little. "Hey, Sass, what's up?" Listening to her and playing cards at the same time, he nods absentmindedly. "Yeah, sorry. I went out for bit after work. Tomorrow sounds good though. I bet if you talk to Herb he'd let me off early...I'd rather have you smile and bat your eyes than me." He receives a tap to his shin under the table from Velvet as he'd been distracted from the game, and resumes playing. "Just swing by Mom and Pop's in the morning or something..." he grins. "I'll even have breakfast waiting for ya, and you can do your begging then."

Fool

*Jess own smile forms as she see Velvet enter and walk over to her. It was always nice to see a familiar face.*

"Hey Velvet..."

*Jess takes another sip of beer.*

"Yeah Sean does not seem like the one who would put up to much of a fight. Specialy when he is head over heels for you."

*Seeing Velvet turn her attachen to Carson she cant help the dry laugh at her flirting friend.*

"He's quite the looker isn't he?"

*Finishing off her beer Jess puts it down on the bar and gives it a little push. Looking twords the table she hops off the stool and pulls out some cards from her pocket she heads to the table.*

"I was waiting for Peter and Sean to show up but seeing as you so nicely convinced Sean to stay at work for you I guess he wont be showing up now will he?!"

*As if on cue the bar door opens again and a tall braud shoulder man who looked to be around 30 enters. His hair was spiked black. He wore an earing in his right ear and had a few tattoo's on his arms. He fashioned a black cut off shirt and faded black jeans with boots.

Coming up behind Jess he slings his arm around her. The smell of whisky on his breath.*

"Hey Babe, we playing tonight?"

*Peter stops for a moment a grin curling on his lips.*

"..cards...I mean are we playing cards tonight."

*Jess shakes her head and pulls Peter's arm off of her.*

"Pete, first off you stink..."

"Hey Hey now someone had to have a drink with Sean to calm him down since he could come out tonight thanks to someone."

*Peter looks to Velvet and gives a shake of his head but ends it with a wink to her.*

*Jess rolls her eyes as she opens the cards and starts to shuffle.*

"..ok...well second I'm not your babe."

"Awww...how ya gonna leave me high and dry like..."

"Pete shut up and sit down your making a fool of yourself."

*Jess looks back to the bar and nods to Carson and Velvet.*

"We are down one person Carson if you wanna play, Velvet grab some more drinks would ya!"

*As Misty leaves TJY she looks at her watch to see she was out an hour earlyer than planed. Carson was probley home by now and tired but maybe she could call to see about doing something tomarrow on her half day.

Dialing his house phone she lefts it ring only to get no answer. Hanging up she find it odd but thinks nothing of it. Dialing his cell next she waits till there is an answer.*

"Hey You. I got out of work a little early. I tryed calling you house but got no answer so sorry to bother you. I was just wondering tomarrow I am taking a half day and I dident know if we could convince Herb to let you out a little early we could get together and doing something. That is if you want.."

Persuasion

Carson chuckles a little. "Ah, a card player, eh? Been a long time since I've been at a table for a good round."

He twirls his beer bottle with his fingers, spreading the wet ring on the bar. "I'd offer to play, but I would assume you'd want a bigger group than two." He takes another sip of his drink, his eye catching movement by the door.

A slender, petite woman with long dark hair slips into the bar and glances around the room, one hand on her shouldered purse, the other running through her hair. She spots Jess and a flashy smile forms as she approaches. "Hey, Jess!" She leans on the counter between Jess and Carson. "I wasn't sure if I'd make it tonight. The bossman had one of his bad days and was intent on keeping me at work all night, but I ended up...persuading Sean to stay for me." She giggles. "Not hard to do that with him." She throws Jess a wink.

As if suddenly realizing there's someone behind her, she turns around and sees Carson. "Oh, well hello, hello. So sorry for interrupting."

Carson gives her a nod and a slight grin. "You interrupted nothing and I was enjoying hearing about your persuasion."

The woman's cheeks flush slightly as she smiles slyly and she studies Carson's eyes for a moment. "Well I'm glad I wasn't interrupting...but even if I was, I think it was worth it to meet you." She extends her hand. "Velvet Michaels."

Carson takes her hand in a firm shake. "Carson Banks. You with Jess here, I'm assuming."

"Oh, we go way back." Velvet laughs and looks to Jess again. "Don't we?" She nods to the empty table. "So you setting up tonight or what?"

*hic*

*Jess could not help but give a laugh at Carson comment. It was not that she studyed people all the time but that she just took note who came in and out of the bar. And when someone as hot as Carson came though the door it was hard not to notice.*

"Actully..."

*Jess takes a sip of her beer and gives a curled smile to Carson. Absintmindedly picking at the beer lab finally replys.*

"Well Carson this is not my normal seat but that table over there..."

*Jess point over her shoulder at a small table with a few chairs.*

"...thats my table when I have someone to play cards with. I'm just about there every night if I am drinking or not thats a differnt story."

*Jess finishs off her beer and than orders another.*

"Tonight I don't have anyone to play cards with. Sooooo...tonight is a drinking night and I wanted a front row seat so I could order all my little heart desired."

*Jess turns back to the bar as her new beer is but down. She had, had a rough day and the beer felt good.*

"I pretty much do know who comes in and out btw. I AM very observent."

Conversations

Carson turns his head to see Jess straight on, and his eyes narrow slightly. He can't help his slight grin though. "You're pretty observant. Do you study every stranger who walks in like that, or just me?"

He turns his attention back to his drink for just a moment before looking at her again. "Well, Jessica, I'm Carson and most people call me Carson." His grin widens. "You must take up this seat frequently if you know who's been here and who hasn't."

Yearning

*Katie gives a small shake of her head at Laura's question. He had made enough people go out of there way tonight she dident need to add another name to the list. In a soft voice she responds.*

"No, I don't need anything. You get some sleep."

*Once Laura is gone Katie stands and goes to the window for a moment looking out. As she looks out the window she gets a sudden yearning to call someone, but the name that comes to her mind is not who she was exspect. She felt like wanting to call Scott.

Turning and looking at the phone for a long moment Katie fights with herself wondering if she should call or not. Letting out a sigh she decieds not to bother him. She'd never called him before and it might be to strange to him.

Going back over to her door she shuts it all the way than hops into bed letting her head sink into the pillow. Now that it was quiet her mind wandered a little more. Another small tear escapes her eye till finally she closes them. Tomarrow would be a new day, maybe it would be better, maybe the pain would be gone than. Though Katie new that wasent true she still hoped.*

*The woman gives a laugh and takes another swig of her beer.*

"You know you..could be right, but your accent tells me differnt along with your good looks. We don't have many people around here who..."

*The woman stops for a moment as if trying to catch her train of thought.*

"...who...have the blond hair and blue eye trat."

*The woman lips continue to curle as she turn around in the stool chair to face Carson fully.*

"I'm Jessica Fisher, but most people just call me Jess."

Retort

Jason heads to the kitchen to find something to make a couple sandwiches. Though he kept his hands busy, his mind still wandered. Though being with Katie felt good, getting away was a slight relief too, but he didn't quite understand why. It was almost as if being separated, he didn't have to fight something...but what it was, he wasn't even sure.

Pushing aside all these rampant thoughts, Jason simply fixes supper and takes it back to Katie's room. Sitting in her chair, he eats with her, not saying much, but just being there. He didn't want to make her feel uncomfortable or awkward. He just wanted to help her get through this. He knew she didn't remember everything yet. Would it make things easier or harder on her to remember about Scott?

"Jason?"

Jason sits up straight, hearing Laura's voice. "In here."

Laura comes down the hall, her purse still slung over her shoulder. She pokes her head into Katie's room and offers her a smile. "Hey, you. Good to see you back."

Jason knows that this is his cue and slowly rises from the chair. He exchanges a quick glance with Laura, then looks down on Katie, reaching out to rough up her hair. "I better get home, Hero. You need anything, you know who to call."

Heading out of the room, Laura gives his shoulder a pat. She knew why he'd been here...and on some level, she understood. Once he's gone, Laura looks back to Katie. "I just got back from being out with Nate. Can I do anything for you before bed?"


Carson quirks an eyebrow at the stranger's comment, and he doesn't turn to look at her. He takes a swig of beer and lets it slide down his throat before responding. "I could live right around the corner and you wouldn't know the difference," he retorts. He leans his elbows on the bar and absentmindedly picks up a pretzel to chew on. Just sitting here to relax felt good. Though he'd been proud of the fact that he'd steered clear of bars as of late, he couldn't help but feel almost a relief, as if this was what he'd been waiting for.

He throws the woman a sidelong glance, noting that it appeared she'd already been here for a while tonight. Even so, someone to talk with didn't bother him.

Long way

*Katie pulls away from Jason and sits on the edge of the bed. Giving another whipe to her face she gives a sniffle.*

"Yeah I'm sure I will be fine sooner or later right?!"

*Katie trys to offer a smile as she leans back on her pillow. Not quite laying down but not quite siting up eather. Her mind still siffed thought the new information and tryed to sort it out.*

"I guess now that you said something I do feel a little hungry. Wasting away would be a bad thing. I promised Con I would try and stay out of he hospital and if I wont back he'd kick my butt."

*As Jason walks away Katie's eyes follow him. She couldent help but wonder would anything be the same again ever. Would what happend change things between her and Jason. It certinly dident see like it but what was going on inside could be something totally differnt.*

*A tall skinny woman about 24 with long dirty blonde hair sits on the stool next to Carson. Her own bottle of beer infont of her the lable half torn off. Her wrists lined with braclets and around her neck hung chains. Her eyes have a tint of glaze relaying her had more than one beer tonight.

Turning her head to Carson as he sits down she gives him a once over. A grin curling on her lips.*

"You look like your a long way from home. Not that I mind having you sit next to me."

*Picking up the beer she brings it to her lips and takes another swig before setting it down again.*

Choice

Jason simply holds Katie close, letting her cry...letting her talk. In the back of his mind, questions arose that he didn't want to face right now. He wondered what would change now. He wondered if after remembering, Katie still loved him. He wondered if they would function differently now or if things could just get back to normal. But he didn't dwell on these now. The future would have to take care of itself.

"It's okay," he speaks quietly. "You don't have to say anything. And quit thanking me. I couldn't just walk away...not like this."

His hand gently rubs her back, as he tries to soothe away the pain. In reality, having Katie this close...talking to her...touching her...it was just as much a comfort to him as it was her. He could feel his emotional strain easing off as her presence itself was like a warm summer breeze to his inner battle.

Taking a deep breath, he suppresses only the things that he doesn't want Katie to know right now...the things he doesn't want her to have to deal with right now.

After a while, Jason finally pries Katie away from him so she can sit up and he can tilt her chin to look her in the eye. "You gonna be alright? Hmm?" He offers a small grin. "Why don't you just settle down here while I go find something for us to eat. You may not be hungry, but you need to eat something. The last thing anyone needs is for you to waist away to nothing."


Carson slides into his car and lets out a long sigh. He was hot, tired, and his feet hurt from standing all day. It had been a long day...he'd worked more hours than normal and was feeling it. Misty was working late tonight, so all he had to look forward to was going home and sacking out on the couch in front of the television.

Starting the engine, he pulls away and heads to his apartment. Halfway there, he decides to take a side trip to the store, and once finished there, he realizes he needs to get gas somewhere too. Winding up across town for everything, he's finally on his way back, and feeling even more tired than when he'd left for work. Right about now, just to sit and have a nice cold beer would hit the spot.

As these thoughts pass through his mind, his eyes catch sight of a bar. There were a few cars parked out front. It was late evening...not late enough for the crowd to have gathered yet. Carson hadn't stepped foot in a bar in a long time, but tonight, it would just hit the spot. Besides, there was nothing wrong with it. He'd go in, sit, have a beer and leave. That simple. He could do that.

For just a moment, his conscience argues with him, reminding him of the pass, but he ignores it. This was fine. After the day he'd had, he deserved the break.

A few minutes later, he was walking through the door. The smoke hit his senses along with the smell of beer and the noise of rock music, chatter and laughter. Heading for the bar, he finds a stool and orders a bottle of beer.

Not Sure

*As Jason pulls Katie into his lap it startlers her for a moment not exspecting that to happen. His words hiting her hard knowing there was truth in them. If only the akwardness would go away things would probley be pretty much back to normal.

Slowly Katie's sobs slow down till they are small whimpers. Now that she was shelted in Jason's arms and she was so close to him the comfort made itself present. Keeping her one arm tucked under her and her other on Jason's feel arm but burys her face into Jason's chest alittle more just letting the comfort wash over her as the pain subsides just a bit.*

"I...I'm not sure what to say. I mean I want to say so much but I dont know how."

*Katie lets out a bit of a tired sigh as she closes her eyes.*

"Thank you J for giving up your night and coming to make sure I was going to be ok. That was one of the things I always liked about you. You always were so kind. Thank you for being the person I needed. I just...I don't know."

*Finally Katies crying stops though her heart still aches and for now her breathing became normal. The warmth, the small, the comfort of Jason making her feel safe for the time being.*

Stop it

Jason sighs deeply at Katie's words. He knew what she meant...he knew she was probably right. Yet he didn't want to leave. He'd come here for a reason, and he wasn't ready to leave yet. He couldn't. Not with Katie like this.

As Katie takes his hand, he accepts hers, giving her fingers a light squeeze. He just wanted for this to be over. He just wanted her to feel better. The pain was wearing on him and he just wanted all of this to stop.

But for some reason, her words produce an element of irritation within him. Yes, Camryn was his fiance. Yes, this whole thing had ruined their evening together. Yes, he needed to be with her. But he needed to be here too. Otherwise he wouldn't have come.

"Katie, stop it," he chides quietly. "You have no reason to feel like an idiot - nothing is your fault."

Looking at her for several moments, Jason pushes aside all feelings outside of right here and now. Slipping his hand out of hers, he shifts a little closer and leans down to pull Katie up and onto his lap. Resting her head against his chest, he rocks her gently, just holding her. "You can't get rid of me, Hero," he says softly. "I may be taken by another woman, but that doesn't mean you're no longer my friend, and it doesn't mean I no longer care about you."

His hand moves to tuck her hair behind her ear. "I'm so sorry...for everything."

You shoulen't..

*Jamie grabs her phone as it rings. Seeing Con's name Jamie answers.*

"Hey Babe. You know you can always come over. I got some stuff from my dad he and Carson made extra so I got the food covered. I can always check on Katie for you later as well if you want. Ok..well I am already home. I'll see you in a bit. Love ya."

*Jamie hangs up the phone and heads into the kitchen to grab some plates and warm up the food waiting for Con.*

*As Jason draws near the feeling of him being close increases till finally Katie knows her is standing outside the door and than enter. Feeling even more embarrassed and foolish Katie trys to stop her sobs but still cant. To much was going on to ever try and control those emotions.

Feeling Jason's hand run though her hair causes Katie to jump a little. Why she wasn't sure. He didn't startle her she new he was there, never before had his touch felt so strange. Though is still offered a bit of comfort it just wasn't enough and though his words were soft and soothing to the ears it just didn't take away the embarrassment she felt. She really had made herself look like a fool the last few days.

Looking up at Jason for a moment though her tears she can feel the heat on her face rise as she replays the last few days in her head. As she looks into those endless eyes. Having Jason sitting there was so perfect he looked so good and yet Katie shouldn't be thinking that for Jason was no longer hers. Keeping her face burred in the pillows Katie moves just a little and than speaks.*

"I'm...sorry for the last few days. You should have said something. I feel like an idiot and for some reason I feel so scared. I just, I don't know. You shouldn't be here J. You should be with Camryn, its your night with her. You shouldn't have come to me it will only mess everything you have up."

*Katie brings a hand to her face trying to whip away some of her tears, trying to continue to calm herself down but not having much luck. Katie trys to let Jason's touch bring her comfort aas she quivers slightly, but it was hard . Everything seemed, differnt now and she hated the feeling because something told her it never use to be this hard. Reaching up Katie takes Jason's hand in hers. She wasent sure why other than she just wanted to feel him close to her. Maybe because deep inside she new Jason was the only one who could make her feel better.*

Help

Con watches Katie go into the house to make sure she gets inside okay, then slowly pulls away. Grabbing his cell phone he uses the speed dial and puts it up to his good ear. "Yeah, Jamie, it's me. I just dropped Katie off. She's not doing so great. Can I come over to your place for a while? We can eat something, then I might come back to check on her or at least have Laura make sure she's okay when she gets home."


Camryn dismounts Jason's motorcycle and takes off her helmet, running a hand through her hair.

Jason follows suit, but remains still as Camryn starts to walk away. She turns and looks at him with question. "You coming?"

Jason is quiet for a moment and just stares at the ground. His mind raced. He could feel a strange tension...he could feel the new strain on his connection with Katie and it didn't feel good. He knew she was upset, and it had to be bad for him to be able to sense it.

Camryn pauses and cocks her head to see his face. "Jase...you coming?"

He finally looks back up at her, the apology in his eyes. "I have to go see her, Cam."

Camryn's shoulders drop. She liked Katie and felt so horribly bad for her, but...did Jason really have to go? "But...what about our evening? Katie will be okay...Con will make sure of that."

"I know but...it's different...it's not something I have control over."

Camryn backtracks to stand in front of him. "I know this is hard on you guys...but please...for us...let her work through this. She's a strong person and can do this. I know this is terrible and it's tearing Katie up...I couldn't imagine being in her shoes. But...you can't always just run after her."

As her words hit Jason's ears, a strange irritation grows. He didn't expect anyone to really understand this - he had a hard enough time with it himself. But what he did expect was a little more help from Camryn.

Reaching out, he takes her by the shoulders and looks down, forcing her to look him in the eye. His voice comes out quiet but stern. "Katie doesn't know what she's capable of. If she shuts down, Cam, I could die." That truth is startling and clear. Jason searches Camryn's eyes that start to fill with tears. "I'm sorry...but I have to go."

Pulling her close for a tight embrace and a kiss, Jason lets her go and remounts his bike, throwing his helmet back on. "I'll call you later."

As the bike speeds back down the street, Camryn stands alone, watching until he's out of sight as a tear rolls down her cheek.


The house is quiet. Jason waits for several moments after he's run the doorbell, but he can hear nothing inside. All he knew was that the tension was rising, and it was getting harder for him to retain everything. He had to help Katie calm down before she hurt him or herself.

Letting himself in, he scans the apartment, and sees everything in order. He walks slowly to the hall and then can hear Katie's sobbing. His heart catches in his throat. It was a gut wrenching sound to hear Katie in that much pain.

Making his way to her room, he sees the door partially open, and glances inside before entering. He knew he didn't have to announce himself.

Henry meows at him as if asking for help and glad someone had arrived.

Jason slowly eases down on the bed next to Katie and reaches over to run a hand through her hair. His leather jacket squeaks a little bit as he shifts his weight, his keys jingling in his pocket. "Hey, Hero...shhh...take it easy. I'm right here."

To much to bear

*As they pull into the driveway Katie just sits for a long moment looking out the window and not replying to Con. Right now her brain couldn't break anything down. It couldn't analyze it. It couldn't try and reason. It couldn't even offer some sort of blockage to keep the pain at bay. On top of it all Katie could feel a strange pull with Jason. She new he was ok but she could feel on the inside he wasn't. Her only explanation for that was that over the last year her sense with him must have gotten stronger and now she just couldn't remember.

Still staring straight ahead Katie finally reply to Con giving a little dry laugh.*

"Everything always works out right? Never seems to take the pain away though."

*Katie's voice proves she is tired. Her mind and body has had to deal with so much so fast that most her energy is now gone. Turning to Con she trys to give her best reassuring smile.*

"I just want to go in and sleep. I'll give you a call if I need anything Big brother. Thank you for picking me up."

*Slowly Katie reaches for the door handle and opens the truck door stepping out. Slowly closing it behind her again and takes her bags in her good arm and heads ever so slowly to the front door her head drooping.

As Katie sets her bags down and unlocks the door entering the silence greets her. The only noise is the shutting door behind her. This is not the homecoming she wanted. Katie had hoped the apartment would have been filled with loved ones and friends but now, the only thing there was the darkness, the silence, and the pain.

Katie train of thought is broken as the soft meow can be herd. Looking down and seeing Henry rubbing against her leg a small smile breaks on her face. Setting her stuff down Katie bends down and gives Henry a gentle pet.*

"Hey Boy. I'm glad you greeted me."

*Grabbing her stuff again Katie makes her way to her room upstairs only to find it empty. A bit more confusion hits her. Where were her things? Surly if she wasn't staying here anymore Con wouldn't have dropped her off. Heading back down the steps Katie stands confused for a moment in the hallway. Only to see Henry disappear into the room Laura had been using as a storage room. Drawing closer and pushing the door open Katie finds all her things in order. She must had moved rooms when she first had gotten out of the horsetail and now didn't remember. Putting her stuff down she smiles at Henry again.*

"Thanks for the help Buddy."

*Closing the door Katie locks out the words and sinks down on her bed as she burys her face into her pillow and finally releases all the tears and pain that had been pent up inside. Her soft sobs grow louder for a while as the pain is just to much to bear.*

Up to you

Con keeps a close eye on Katie as she comes with him to the truck, and he gives Jame an apologetic wave. He would call her later and figure out what they'd do that evening.

Getting in the truck and pulling out onto the street, Con reaches a hand over to give Katie's shoulder a squeeze. He hadn't heard what she'd said, but could feel her hurt, and hurt for her. "It's okay, little Sis... it'll all work out."

The ride back to Katie and Laura's is quiet. Laura's car is gone and Con assumes she's either working late or out with Nate. Either way, he wanted to do whatever Katie felt most comfortable with.

Pulling into the drive, he stops and turns to her. "I know everything is confusing right now," he tries to comfort. "And I'm here for you if you want it. I can go in with you, or if you need your own space, that's fine too."


Jason stands and watches his two best friends leave the restaurant. He gives Jamie a helpless glance, wishing his emotions weren't so hard to control right now. The last thing he wanted to do was break down here.

Gritting his teeth, he eases back down in the booth, not knowing what to do. Feeling a hand on his, he looks over quickly at Camryn who is offering him a look of sympathy. He takes her hand in both of his and rests his forehead on it for a moment, just trying to regroup. "Can we leave?"

"Yeah." Camryn nods.

"I'm sorry."

"It's okay." She rises and pulls Jason up. "Take me home and we can spend time there instead alright?"

"Okay."

Hide

*Katie leans into Con sheltering herself into his arms. She dident know what to think or what to say. Slowly Katie keeps herself wrapped in his arms and walks with Con out. Her eyes still exspelling the tear. Her emotions were so mixed up she probley couldent even make herself stop crying if she wanted to.*

*Jamies own heart goes out to her young friends. The pain Katie and Jason both felt at the moment was written on there face and it hurt Jamie to see this. A few tears escape her own eyes as she feels helpless and small aganst this raging storm. As Con starts to leave the restront Jamie lays a hand on his arm and look up at him.*

"Hey her home babe, and I will order some food. I know she is probley not hungry now but she might be in a little bit. Just give me a call to let me know where you will be and I'll meet you there."

*Jamie turns and heads to the back to give her dad an order. Giving a small nod to Carson as well.*

*Slowly Katie gets into Con's truck and shuts the door. Leaning aganst the door once its closed her lays her head aganst the window as she looks out. The world seemed so dark, so strang. She dident even know it anymore. Though she remembered this little bit of the past alot of stuff that went with it was still lost and it confused her.*

"I don't know what to think Con. It hurts so much. I just...feel so lost. I just want to go home and hide."

Hurting

As Jason looks at Katie, he sees the change in her eyes. He sees the look on her face. He fees a shift in the emotional pull.

He watches the transformation take place, and he knows that she knows. His own heart aches. He didn't want her to find out this way. He couldn't even begin to imagine how heart wrenching this must be for her. She hadn't understood...she had loved him again...and now...it was falling down around her all over again.

"Katie, I'm..."

Camryn look down, a few tears of her own forming. She felt so very badly for Katie. She loved Jason and didn't want to give him up, but she knew how difficult this must feel, and it hurt to see her friend like this.

Con feels lost...trapped...caught in the middle. Hearing Katie's words, he knows that she realizes who Camryn is, and surely the pain is great. His arm tightens around her just a little as if he's trying to save her from this, but can't. Looking down into her tear-filled eyes, his own emotions race. He could usually stay pretty controlled...maybe it was just seeing Katie this distraught that brought on this sorrow, and this anger for the situation. "Yeah..." He speaks quietly as he nods. "I'll take you home."

He gently turns Katie around to head to the door, but Jason is on his feet. "Katie, wait..."

Con turns his head and shakes it at his friend. "She needs to go home, Jase."

"But..."

"I'll make sure she's okay."

Jason's eyes show his worry and anxiety. Too many emotions were screaming at him to be released and he desperately hung on. He could feel the strain wearing on his strength and knew that he needed to calm down, lest he be thrown into a bad spell or simply pass out from trying to keep all of this in. He couldn't let Katie absorb all of this...not here...not now...not when she had enough of her own emotions to worry about. "I just..." He searches to find Katie's eyes one last time, his voice quiet and cracked. "I'm sorry."

...please

*Feeling Con's arm around her she felt sheltered and safe, but even through that her heart hurt though she wasn't sure why. As they start to draw near to the table Katie keeps her eyes on Jason for a moment and than looks back to Con. Staying silent as Con talks to Jason Katie's mind just moves at a rapide pace bouncing from one thing to the next like running into walls and bouncing back. Keep her voice low she replys to Jason.*

"I just I did save you a trip. I'm just glad I am going home. Once my arm is healed I'll be almost as good as new."

*Katie eyes follow Jason's hand motion to where Camryn was sitting. Giving a little nod she just studys her for a moment her mind pushing through the dark, through the fog. Trying to clear away the smoke. Katie's eyes dont leave Camryn as she continues to search.

Like pulling away a vail Katie is hit with a serge of memories and for a moment Katie is thrown back into a differnt time. Still standing at Mom and Pop's the faces there now are gone. A group of people sit in the middle at some tables. It was after the JetStream concerte. The laughter ringing out and the joking. Music starts and two figues appear staring to sing and dance. The laughter ringing out even more.

Time moves in Katie's brain as if in fast forward. That night coming to an end Katie remembers more. Than it hits her, the cops coming in, Jason being taken away. Seeing herself crying, and yelling for Jason. Tears start to stream down her own eyes as she remembers. The pain of seeing Jason taken away. Worped through time once again Katie remembers going to see Jason behind bars. Not being able to hold him, to touching. Wanting so bad to feel him close to her and not being able too.

Katie's own tears roll out of her eyes and she shakes slightly from the shock of this all. A few words escaping from her lips letting though in on what was going on around her.*

"You...were in jail....it....I felt...so...lost."

*The time passes again and Katie remember when Jason got out, how happy she was. The love of her life was home once again. But he was changed, he wasent the same Jason anymore. He hide things, the look in his eye was differnt and the tone of his voice held a certin coldness and than soon after that Katie and Jason broke it off.*

"We...arnt together anymore..and thats your feonsay. I....."

*Jolted back into the predent Katie looks between Jason and Camryn her face turning a crimson red as her eyes still exspell the tears behind them. Her heart felt crushed once again. And how embarsseds he was about what happend earlyer that day.*

"I'm..sorry."

*Katie turns and looks up at Con.*

"Con, I want to go home.."

*Katie eyes plead with him to take her home. Her head hurt, her heart hurt, she was still confused and she felt a bit scaired. Katie just wanted to hide away for now and let the tears come.*

"...please."

Introduction

Con laughs at Katie's comment about him being dirty, but doesn't offer an explanation. He still wasn't ready to tell her that he'd been at a construction site all day ant not TJY.

Arriving to Mom and Pop's, he smiles when he sees Jamie and after giving her a hug and starting for the door, he catches her eye. He didn't know if Jason was here alone tonight either.


As the bell above the door rings, Carson glances out from the kitchen and smiles a little, seeing Katie. He'd heard about her memory loss, and a part of his was disappointed, knowing that she wouldn't remember him. He was just as glad though, that she'd never met him while in the hospital the last time...otherwise there would be an awful lot of explaining to do as to why he was working there.

Con's eyes roam across the room and catch sight of Jason. His face pales slightly. His friend wasn't alone. Camryn was there, and it looked like they were having a good time. As Katie backs up and takes his arm, he instinctively puts his arm around her shoulders instead as a protective fortress as if trying to keep out the hurt and disappointment that he knew would be hitting her heart.

He gives her a little squeeze. "It's alright, Kat," he assures quietly. "Come on." Walking towards the occupied table, Con throws Jamie a glance, asking her to come with them.

Jason and Camryn are halfway through their meal and in the middle of a humorous conversation when Jason suddenly sees the other three. His heart automatically leaps into his throat, and for a split second, his emotions flare before he locks them up again.

Camryn sees the look on his face and follows his gaze. She was so happy to see Katie up and out of the hospital. But the look on Katie's face told Camryn that this was no happy reunion. She looks back to Jason, the disappointment in her eyes. But she offers a slight nod anyway, telling him that whatever he feels he has to do is okay.

Jason wipes his mouth with a napkin, and looks to the approaching friends, forcing the most genuine smile that he can. "Hey, guys!"

"Hey, Jase." Con keeps his arm around Katie as they approach the table. "We're just grabbing a bite for dinner. How's it going?"

"Good." Jason nods, then looks to Katie, trying not to take to heart the look in her eye that evoked pain in his own. "Look who got to get out of that hospital!" He waves casually to Camryn. "Katie, this is Camryn. We were just...hangin' out here for a bit. I was going to come stop by your room again, but looks like you saved me the trip!" He glances to Jamie, then Con, then back to Katie. "You guys, um...want to join us?"

Dinner gone bad!

*The morning and afternoon go by pretty fast as Katie spends time with Jen just chatting. Trying to keep her own spirits up not thinking about her memories loss. The news of going home in the afternoon alone helps Katie cope little bit as she just wants her own room and bed again right about now. Before long Jen is gone and Katie's stuff is packed. As Katie reaches for the phone to call someone to come pick her up she glances to the door thinking she herd a noise. Waiting a moment and than seeing Con poke his head in Katie hangs up the phone giving a smile.*

"You always know right when to show up don't you? This is my stuff here its not much."

*Katie hops off the bed and grabs some of her bags giving them to Con and than starting to head out with the others.*

"Dinner sounds great..."

*Katie gives a nod to the nurse as she pass by the desk.*

"..I hate the food they give us in here. It tastes like its made out of card bored."

*Once outside Katie throws her bags into the back seat and hops into the front ready to go. As the drive down the road Katie glances at Con taking note he is a little dirty.*

"You realize you look like you have been rolling around in the mud right?"

*Katie cant help but laugh and looks out the window once again watching the scenery pass by trying to work her brain into remembering things.*

*Jamie leans against her car as she glances at her watch. Con and Katie would be arriving soon. Glancing around the parking lot Jamie's eye catches Jason bike. It wasn't strange to see him here. This is where is often came to eat but she couldn't help the passing though of wondering if he was alone or not.

Hearing a truck pull into the parking lot Jamie looks up and gives a small smile seeing Con and Katie. Pushing off her car she walks over to the truck once its parked. Jamie gives Katie a hug once she gets out.*

"Hey there Hero. It's good to see you out again. How are you feeling?"

*Katie gives a smile and returns Jamie's hug. Katie had always liked Jamie and was glad she was eating with them tonight.*

"Oh, I'm good considering everything."

*Jamie gives a smile and than turns to Con receiving her own hug and giving a small nod to where Jason's bike was parked as if trying to relay a message to him. Pulling away Jamie smiles again and returns to talking to Katie for a moment.*

"Well don't worry about work. We miss you but I want you better before you come back ok?!"

*Katie gives a nod and starts to head into Mom and Pop's as Jamie and Con are a little bit behind.*

*Jamie looks to Con a worried look in her eye. Keeping her voice low she leans into Con as she walks.*

"Con I think Jason is here that's his bike there but I don't know if he is alone or not. I just hope this goes over ok."

*Katie makes her way into Mom and Pop's. The small bell ringing on the door. Katie gives a small wave as she see Mable and than one to Herb. Seeing the two new people working Katie searches her brain for a moment trying to remember who they are. After a few moments Katie scans the rest of the restaurant and spots Jason. A smile crossing her face again she starts to make her way towards him only to stop when another figure can be seen. Backing up a few steps Katie's mind reels. Who was this person with Jason? Why was he out to dinner with her when he new she would be going home today? What was going on? The strange sicking feeling rises in her again. Wrapping her arm around herself she trys her best to remember, to remember anything. Anything at all that would help her know what was going on. Pushing her mind she trys to fight through the fog a small headache forming. Why? What? and Who? Backing up a little more Katie finds Con behind her and takes his arm with her hand to steady herself. Words just wouldn't come as her mind continues to race but the look on her face was one that could break the hardest of hearts.*

Ride home

Con laughs with Katie, letting her comment about him and TJY slide for now. There was no point in upsetting her at the moment. He could still remember the way she’d come into his office the day he’d decided to leave. He could still see the hurt and disappointment in her eyes, and right now, he just didn’t want to see that again.

“I’ll be your bouncer any time,” he teases.


The three guys and Jen chat with Katie for a while before Scott leaves, and Con follows soon after. Jason apologizes for his short visit, but explains again that Reese needs him, and before they know it, it’s just Katie and Jen once more.

The band comes back at lunchtime, full of energy as normal, bearing a hot pizza and soda pop to drink that Kyle convinced the nurse they could bring in. After a time of chatting, joking and teasing, the three bid farewell, leaving Jen for the afternoon.


The day seems to drag by slowly. Jason tries to concentrate on work, but it’s difficult. Trooper can sense his anxiety and paces nervously around his office, making the atmosphere even more tense than it already is.

Jason stares at his computer screen, his mind everywhere but the words he’s trying to read. He’d called Camryn…they were going to go out to eat tonight. He was looking forward to that distraction, but until then, he had several hours left of torture. That morning with Katie had just been…difficult. Not to mention, constantly blocking emotions was getting harder and harder. But he knew if he let everything go now, she was no longer used to it, and he certainly didn’t want to hurt her. He could only hope that it wouldn’t take her long to remember, so they wouldn’t have this odd tension between them anymore.


Scott leans back in his chair and sends another crumpled piece of paper across the office and into the waste basket. It was one out of ten that he’d actually landed in the garbage. The others lay scattered across the floor, going ignored.

Swiveling back around, Scott checks out his list of things he was supposed to be working on. Reese wanted his new system up and running, Susanne was having trouble with her printer…again… and Laura needed help with something too. He used to enjoy this…but all of a sudden he didn’t seem to enjoy anything. It almost felt as though he’d been catapulted back in time to where he’d started out at. Scott…just plain old Scott, the tech guy without a life.

Heaving a weary sigh, he finally gets up and heads out to the main floor to get some work done.


Six o’clock. Jen has already been picked up by Mike, and the hospital is fairly quiet. Word hadn’t gotten out yet that Katie was being released, but one person assumed she was, and took the initiative to help out before anyone else might struggle with any further requests.

Con sticks his head around the corner and seeing Katie, he gives her a big smile and comes into her room once again. He’s in his work clothes and a bit dirty, but he wasn’t going to take the time to go home and change first.

“Hey, Kat. You ready to blow this joint or what? We can even stop by Mom and Pop’s for supper if you want…my treat. Jamie’s meeting me there.”


Jason takes a sip of his pop and leans back in the booth, closing his eyes. Camryn cocks her head and looks across at him. "You alright?"

"I think so." Jason sighs and opens his eyes again. "I'm sorry. I'm not very good company tonight."

"It's okay." Camryn shrugs. "I understand....Well...not completely, but I'm trying to. I'm sorry you're having to go through all this anyway." She looks away for a moment, noticing Aerith across the floor and gives a little wave. Glancing back to Jason, she holds up her menu. "So...did you decide what you wanted or what?"

Grateful for the change in subjects, Jason sits up straighter and tries to get his mind occupied with supper. "Oh, I think so."

Sabotage

*Katie smiled at Jason as he gave her a hug. His warm arms were always nice and felt welcomed. Still the strange feeling loomed that something was wrong. That feeling, just the look on Jason face, and something about his emotions inside sent up red flags that there was a problem that was going untold. But once again like the other days that passed the conversation changed before Katie could bring attention to it and the question got lost in the fog once again.

As Scott draws closer to the bed Katie smiles up at him and for a brief moment locks eyes with his. Her heart gives a sudden jump as her mind starts to cut away some fog as if trying to remember something. Searching his eyes Katie trys to let her mind go so it can find what it was looking for. The answer was on the tip ready to break free but Jen's question interrupts Katie's though process and like a scared animal the answer retreats into the dark fog. Breaking her gaze from Scott she looks at Jen and than back to him with a smile.*

"You're own office huh? Well that's pretty neat. Once I get out of here I am going to have to come and take a look at it. I bet its great and don't you worry before you know it I will be back to work and you wont be able to get ride of me again. I have made a promise to try my best to stay out of the hospital for a little while and stop giving people heart attacks."

*Katie hold her smile but yet a look looms behind her eyes. She felt a little strange and a bit depressed she couldn't remember any of this on her own. A life time had passed her by and she was sure most of it was good and she couldn't remember any of it. Once again Katie turns back to Jason at the new of TJY being in he open. It felt good to her to know they didn't have to hide anymore. That if something was to go wrong it would be ok and they could get help. As Katie opens her mouth to say something she suddenly stop seeing the shadow from the door way spread across the floor. Katie did not even have to look up to know who it was, but turning to the door and watching Con enter her smile becomes even bigger.*

"Big brother your always welcomed to one of my party's. I need someone to be the bouncer for when everyone gets a sugar high from to much Mountain Dew."

*Katie can't help but let out a small laugh as she reaches over to give Con a hug.*

"I'm holding up pretty well. With any luck I will be able to go home before dinner tonight and its a good thing, Seems like I got a big tank trying to sabotage me back at work."

*Katie sticks her toung out at Con.*

"All in all though I'll just be happy to go home. I hate hospitals after all. How are things with you Con?"

Public

Scott and Jason exchange looks, their eyes locking for a moment after Katie's statement about a hug. Jason's mind raced. Scott's mind raced. Neither knew how to act, and both felt awkward while forcing their faces to show calmness and amusement.

Jason twists around and throws Katie a smirk. "You're not playing fair, you know that? What are you trying to do? Make me jealous?" He reaches over and pulls Katie into a warm hug before pulling away with a departing kiss to her forehead.

Jen grins at them and shakes her head. She felt badly for these two men, but was glad to see that they both could overcome this temporary awkwardness so as not to make Katie feel too strangely. "She's not playing fair alright, but she definitely knows how to get the attention."

"Aw, are you feeling left out?" Jason teases.

"Yes." Jen giggles. "But I'll wait to get my own hug and kiss from Mike, thank you very much."

Scott meanders closer to the bed, chuckling a little. He looks down at Katie for several moments, wanting to talk to her...wanting to just chat with her if nothing else. Yet as far as she remembered, they'd never just sat and talked...as far as she remembered, they'd only waved to each other at work and that was as far as anything had ever gone. What on earth could he possibly say now?

Jen sees Scott standing nearby and looks between him and Katie for a moment. "So...Scott, how's TJY?"

Grateful for Jen's intervention, he gives a little shrug. "It's alright. Not the same without Katie around though. Things are a bit crazy at the moment."

Jason quirks an eyebrow. "Hey, did you tell Katie you got your own office now?"

"Oh yeah..." A grin finally surfaces on Scott's face. "I do have an office now."

"He did that so less people can bother him." Jason stifles a laugh as Scott swats his arm.

"Thanks a lot."

Jason's eyes widen as he suddenly remembers something. "Ohhh hey..." He looks to Katie again. "Something new you should probably know about. We, um...well, Reese had some dealings with a local sheriff...the one that got me into JetStream, actually, and TJY doesn't have to be underground anymore. We're free to be out in the open, and we're actually transitioning into an official branch of law enforcement right now."

Trying to help the conversation along, Jen speaks as well. "Isn't that great, Katie? You can actually be the bodyguard at JetStream now and be even more official."

Suddenly a figure appears in the doorway, taking up the entire space. Con eyes the people in the room, a smile spreading. "If I woulda known there was a party going on, I woulda waited until later to come."

"Oh stop it," Jen chides with a laugh. "The more the merrier. We were just telling Katie about TJY being public now."

"Ah, yes." Con steps into the room and goes around to the other side of Katie's bed, swinging a chair up close to sit down near her. "Lots happening, but not enough with you involved." He gives her a wink. "How's the trooper holding up, hmm? You look good. People keep asking about you, and I keep telling them that you just got in the habit of snubbing people."

Jason throws him a look. "Con!"

"What?" Con laughs and pats Katie's shoulder. "You know I wouldn't do that to my little sister."

...

*Katie lets out a long tired sigh as Jason doges and leaves the room once again. How long would this strangeness go on? Would it be like this forever?*

"Anything but hospetil good would be wonderful. I cant stand this stuff. I mean I know there pashents are sick but we havent lost our tast for food."

*Katie gives a small laugh as everyone exits the room. Keeping up the light chat with Jen for alittle bit untill Jason returns and she gives a nod trying to ignore the mixed feelings she felt.*

"Yeah I should be ok for now. I just want to get up and go home..."

*Katie is about to say more but stops and smiles as she see Scott in the doorway. He looked differnt than he did yesterday he was back to what Katie new as normal.*

"Hey Hey Scott. This is a treat second day in a row huh?"

*Katie offers a smile, and gives Jason a side long glance with a smerk.*

"Hey no one alse will give me a hug around here can I get one from you?"

*Katie sticks her toung out at Jason before turning back to Scott to receve the hug.*

"I'm doing ok. Just frustrated and want to go home. Other than they things seem good. How are you today?"

Patient?

Carson just takes a moment to simply look into Misty's eyes. Ever to admit only to her that he melted under her touch.

Reaching up to take her hand, he kisses it, then throws her a wink. "I gotta get back to work... I'll catch you later." Backing away, he slips back into the kitchen to work alongside Herb.


Jason cringes. He'd forgotten Katie didn't know about his knee. "Oh, it's nothing much." He shrugs, once again not realizing that Katie wouldn't know anything about Carson other than he was part of the Agency. "Carson and I just had a little go-around and my bad knee lost out. I'm fine though."

Phil can't help his frown as he listens to Jason. Ever time he'd seen him lately, he'd been favoring that knee. He wasn't surprised Reese hadn't let him go out like that. The last he had heard, Rick had been giving Jason shots for the pain, but as far as Phil knew, the doctor was no where near signing a release.

Jason catches Phil's look and tosses out his own, signaling that he really didn't want to get into it right now and have Katie worry more than she already was.

Turning back to her, Jason freezes at her question of a hug. It was bizarre that he did. He gave her hugs all the time as friends. But right now, he felt extremely awkward about it. Feeling the emotions start to rise again, he stamps them back down, desperate not to let Katie see them. Not now...not yet.

As he gives Katie a crooked grin, showing he'd be glad to give her a hug, his cell phone rings. "Aw, drat." Taking the phone off his belt he scans the number and hesitates. "Sorry. I'll be right back," he apologizes. He tosses a wink to Katie. "Don't go anywhere."

As he exits the room, Mike's hand slides from his pocket where his own phone rests. "Hey, I got an idea. How about the boys and me go pick up lunch a Mom and Pop's and sneak some back in here?"

Kyle's arms shoot into the air. "Mike gets the prize for best idea of the day! Let's go!"

Phil laughs and shakes his head. He gives a wave to Katie. "We'll see you in a little bit. Don't let Jen talk your ear off."

"Oh stop," Jen chides. "Behave yourselves while you're out. Without me around, who knows what kind of trouble you'll get into." As she and Katie are left alone, she giggles. "You gotta love them."

Jason leans up against the wall in the hallway and lets out a long sigh. This shouldn't be this hard. This was ridiculous. He couldn't even give Katie a hug? It was absurd. He glances down to his phone to see Mike's number again. Though Jason was glad for the interruption, it was unfortunate that apparently his body language had been obvious enough for Mike to catch on that quickly. Surely Katie had sensed the odd atmosphere as well. How long could Jason keep this up? How long could he keep pretending everything was fine so he didn't hurt her feelings?

"You alright?"

Jason turns quickly, feeling Mike's hand on his shoulder. "Yeah...no...I don't know."

"We're going out for a bit, then coming back. Need anything?"

Jason shakes his head. "Thanks. I'll stick around here a bit then get back to work."

Kyle salutes him as they head on out, then throws a wink to the nurse before exiting.

Jason watches them leave, and takes a deep breath. Jen was there...he could rely on her for any help he needed. Finally turning back to the room, he enters again, expertly pulling on one of his masks that smiles with bright eyes. Forcing himself not to limp, he goes back to Katie's bedside, sitting down next to her once more. "Sorry. I gotta be getting back to work here pretty soon." He reaches out to brush Katie's cheek with his hand. "You be alright for a while?"

A knock on the door interrupts them once more. Jen looks around and raises an eyebrow, a little surprised at the appearance of the visitor. But she thought she understood, and offers a warm smile. "Hi, Scott."

Scott's hands are stuffed in his pockets, his walk slow as he timidly enters the room. "Hey, Jen. Jason."

Jason gives him a nod. "Hey." He looks to Katie with a grin. "Aren't you the popular one today. Pretty soon Reese himself will be in here."

Scott manages half a smile, his hair, attire and glasses what Katie would have been used to seeing at the time she now remembered. "How's the patient?"

Hate seeing you...

*Katie cant help but laugh again. It was nice to have friends there to cheer her up.

Katie lifts her head a little higher as she hears Jason's voice. A bigger smile spreads across her face as she waits for a morning hug only to receve non as Jason sits on the end of the bed.

Katie looks a bit confused at Jason for a moment.*

"Why does Rick have to release you? Did you hurt yourself again? And where is my morning hug?"

*Katie looks to Jason with a bit of confustion. She could tell something was wrong. Something was differnt but she just dident know what. Why did she have this sickly feeling in the stomach.*

" I'm doing ok. Just cant wait to get out of here I think. Can't wait to remember too everything seems so strange and just funny feeling I guess."

*Katie looks to Jason her eyes forming a little hint of confustion.*

*Misty looks down at the plate and smiles. There were so many times Carson did the little things that saprised her and made her happy. Those were the times she loved the most.*

"Why thank you kind Sir. It looks like my food is happy to see me too."

*Misty looks up at Carson again searching his eyes and seeing his sinsarity. Giving a soft nod she caress his face again.*

"I'm glad its ove now. I hate seeing you hurt."

*Jamie gives a small nod to Scott and gives a pat to his arm once again. She only hoped Scott would be ok and he wouldent let this one bump bring him down. He really was more than what he made himself to be. *

"Ok, well if you need anyone I am a phone away. I'll help when and if I can Scott. Your strong I know you will do whats right."

*Offering another friendly smile she turns and makes her way out of the office and to her own. Life has a funny way of working out sometimes. One heart could be broken and than healed in the strangest of ways. Sometimes it would be unexspected but in the end things worked out.*

Purple

Kyle snorts at Katie's comment, picking up his twin's cue as if it had all been planned. "A burden? You? Good grief, Katie. You ought to know better than that. Not THAT much has changed." He gives her a silly grin. "You know we think the world of you."

Phil slaps him upside the head. "Now you're gonna embarrass the poor girl."

"Naw, just myself."

"So what else is new?"

"What is this? Pick on Kyle day?"

"It always is," Mike quips. "You're just too easy to pick on."

Kyle grimaces and looks at Katie again. "See what I have to deal with? Pretty soon I'm going to need you as my own personal body guard to fend off these guys. My sister doesn't even help me anymore."

Jen gives him a shocked look. "I defend you when I think you deserve it."

"See?!"

A new voice breaks in. "Kyle, shut up before you dig a hole so deep no one's ladder will be tall enough."

Kyle's head whips around to see Jason. "My friend...my dear friend...he won't even take my side."

Jason grins and comes up behind him, hooking his foot under his chair leg and pulling so the chair tips and Kyle is forced to stand so he doesn't fall over.

Phil laughs and shakes his head. "Hotshot is in the house. How's it going?"

"Fair. Busy day." Jason rolls his eyes. He flops down on the edge of Katie's bed, as the spare chairs are taken up already. "I'm busting my britches to get a project done for Reese. He isn't letting me back out on cases yet, but if he doesn't let me soon, I'm gonna go stir crazy. It's just getting Rick to sign that stupid paper to release me." He sighs, and switches subjects, looking to Katie. "So. How's Hero today? You're looking good."


Carson lets Misty run a finger over his fresh bruise, knowing that she's wondering what happened. When she doesn't ask though, his gratefulness is apparent on his face.

He grins at her comments of good looks at trust, and is about to answer, but he's taken in by her kiss instead. Returning it, he doesn't care who's in the restaurant. Showing his affections in public never had bothered him, and he wasn't about to give up one of Misty's kisses. She did something to him he never had been able to explain.

Receiving Aerith's whack to his arm, he straightens up feigning an injury. "Hey, watch it! I only got two good arms! Herb, control your employees!"

Swiveling back to Misty, he gives her a wink and a nod. "Eggs, toast and bacon, it is." Heading back through the doors, he takes his towel and rolls it up, snapping it on Aerith's back before scooting out of reach.

It's not too long before Carson brings Misty her food himself, setting her plate down to reveal a smiley face made out of the eggs and bacon. "Madam...breakfast is served." He pauses a moment, growing serious again. Looking Misty in the eye only confirmed that he didn't want to hide anything from her. He gestures to his eye. "The detective thought I'd look good in purple." He shrugs. "But it's over now."


Scott focuses his eyes downward as Jamie speaks. Everything she said made sense...it really did. And he wanted to feel that hope...it just felt so...impossible right now. Katie HAD done a lot for him...she really had flipped his world upside down and helped him see life from a new perspective. It was just...without her...he felt like he'd been catapulted backward in time to when all he'd done was hibernate and live in his own little world where it was safe. Without a hero by his side, he didn't know how to walk anymore.

He swallows hard and forces himself to look up at Jamie. "Thanks. I, um...I'll think about seeing her."

Starting Trouble

*Jamie moves back closer to Scott's desk. She still felt bad for her friend. Why life had to be cruel sometimes Jamie didn't know, but until they all took there place with there room in heaven there would be loss, heartache and hurt. All one could ask for was the comfort of God, and of friends to make it a little bit more bearable.*

" I wouldn't call this a blunder per say. Its more of a growing pain. We all have them, its how we move on in life and learn. Its how we become who we are. Katie might of left you Scott, but she left you with a gift. She gave you courage, hope, selfasteam. Katie showed you that your really NOT that geek. Its your choise to go back to that. With or without her your still Scott, and we have seen what alittle hottie you can be."

*Jamie cant help but let her smile grow a little. Jamie never really got to sit down and talk with Scott before. He'd always seemed so standoffish. But since Katie had been with him a whole new side of Scott was born and people saw a side of him the proved he was much more than he acted to be.*

"Go see her Scott. It might hurt that she dosent remember and it might not change things but do you really want to push her out of your life all together? When she does remember, dont you want to be there to help if she needs it. Your title might be friend but what a friend you could be. I know all to well losing someone you love hurts, but dont lose yourself too."

*Misty looks up at Carson and grins. Seeing his black eye she brings a hand to his face and gently runs a finger over it. Making sure her touch is light as to not hurt him. She knows for a moment her eyes show a bit of worry. But if Carson was in trouble he certinly wouldent be here right now. So stearing away from the conversation for once in her life to save Carson a bit of pain She looks back at the menu and than back up at Carson.*

"Course I get jealous. I have to you know. With your good looks I got to keep one eye open at all time, but something tell me I think I dont have to be quite as jealous anymore. I trust you."

*Misty leans up and press her lips aganst Carson she kiss him with passion. A day was a long time to go with out a kiss from Carson and Misty had missed it. The kiss continues untill Aerith walks by them and gives alittle laugh.*

"Miss if your going to distract our workers I am going to have to ask you to leave."

*Aerith wacks Carson on the arm with her pen before heading over to the counter to give her orders to Herb.

A slight smile forms on Herb's lips as he takes the orders from Aerith and watches Misty and Carson. They had both had there problems, there ups and down but still seeing them standing there togeather it was such a nice thought indeed to see them smile and laugh with eachother. They had helped eachother grow so much in many differnt ways.

Misty finally breaks into a smile and a small laugh after Aerith walks by. Still stairing into Carson endless eyes the courners of her mouth curle.*

"Look at that now I AM the one geting you in trouble. Whats ever a guy to do."

*Misty laughs again befor siting back down.*

"I think I'mm have some eggs and toast with that famus bacon you were talking about kind Sir."

*Katie looks to Jen and gives her a soft smile. She new her friend was trying to make her feel better by giving her company and Katie apresheated that.*

"Sure if you dont have anything alse going on. I always like the company and since I dont know when Jason will be here it would be nice.

*Katie looks between Jen and the other guys.*

"As long as you are not doing anything. I dont want to be a burden."

Bacon

Jen nods to Katie and takes her phone out of her purse. She grimaces. “Well, let’s see if I can get a signal out in the hall. I’ll be back. Wheeling herself out of the room, she separates herself from the others so she can call Jason. She’d had plenty of signal in Katie’s room, but it was just as well that her conversation be private if anything was said that might confuse Katie.


Kyle’s eyes go wide. “Of course you’ve been at our shows! You’re our biggest fan…er…helper…” He laughs. “I even added you to our website – you’ll have to check it out.” He opens his mouth to mention the one time Katie had missed, but realizes that she’d been at the wedding she didn’t yet know about, and he feels he shouldn't be the one to tell about that one. Closing his mouth, he starts again, but stops once more, having almost mentioned the most exciting show when Jason had proposed to Camryn. His face grows a little red. “Yeah, things have been going well. We’re thinking about making us a CD…I’m trying to convince Jason to make one under his name, but he isn’t too keen on the idea right now. Personally, I think if he was on the cover and people knew they’d just be getting his voice instead of his and mine, that they’d buy it.”

“You don’t have a bad voice,” Mike intervenes.

“No, but it ain’t Jason.”

Phil looks to Katie, thumbing to his brother. “He thinks he hasn’t improved any. Without Ja…” He stops short, almost ready to say ‘without Jason there fore a while, he was forced to be the lead singer,’ but he realizes that a whole lot of explanation would be needed after that one. “I mean, with some songs Jason hasn’t sung, Kyle’s been forced to sing more and he’s doing a whole lot better than he thinks he is.”

Kyle rolls his eyes. “The audience still wants Jason.”

“Who doesn’t?”

Mike interrupts again. “If Jen heard you guys, she’d slap you both. You know what she says, and she’s right…JetStream is all of us combined. Without one of us we’re just not the same. So…quit the bickering about who’s the best.”

Kyle salutes him. “Yes sir!”


Jason is just sitting down at his desk, when his cell phone rings. Fumbling with the clip on his belt it takes him just a minute and he looks at the number. Jen.

“Hey, Jen. What’s up?”

Jen smiles as she sits in the hall. “Hi, Jason. The band is up here with Katie and we were just wondering if you were going to swing by too.”

Jason pauses, strumming his fingers on his desk. “Um I just got to work, but…yeah. I guess…yeah. I need to.”

“Well Katie asked about you. She said she was a little worried about you.”

“Worried?”

“Yeah…that you’d been acting strangely.” Jen gives a little sigh and glances down to the open door. “Look, Jase…Con called Phil last night so we all wouldn’t be in the dark and embarrass anyone by accident. We know what you’re going through, so…I’m volunteering to spend the day up here with Katie.”

Jason closes his eyes for a moment. He couldn’t have asked for a better circle of friends. “Thanks, Jen…that means a lot. I’ll be up there in about fifteen minutes and stay as long as I can. I do have to get some stuff done for Reese though, so I’ll probably be back here for the afternoon.”

“Not a problem.” Jen finishes up her conversation with Jason before wheeling herself back to Katie’s room. She rolls her eyes. “The lazy bum had just gotten to work. He’s on his way over now.” She offers a bright smile. “And…I was thinking, Katie…I don’t have anything going on today and I’d love to spend some time with you. You wouldn’t mind if I hung out here today, would you?”

Mike lifts an eyebrow. They’d all planned on eating lunch together, then heading to his place for the afternoon. He doesn’t question Jen though, trusting she had a good reason.


Carson hears Misty’s voice and immediately a smile spreads on his face. Hearing her statement to Herb, he looks out the kitchen door to her and points a finger. “Better watch it, miss. I got a girlfriend who can get pretty jealous.”

Making sure that he can slip away for just a moment, he goes out to the font counter, a towel over his shoulder. Taking his finger, he tilts Misty’s menu down so he can see her face. “Ah, and here she is now.”

He rests his elbow on the counter to be just below her eye level, deciding not to talk about this morning unless she brought it up after seeing his shiner. “So what’ll it be this morning? Omelet? Pancakes? Waffles?” He holds a grin, stifling a laugh. “I make some pretty mean strips of bacon.”


Jamie’s words aren’t unlike what Scott expected her to say, but his eyes drift to the floor. He knew he was wanted around here…it just felt like he didn’t have a real place anymore. Like TJY was full of round holes and he was a square peg. Where did he really fit in?

He listens as she speaks of love and God, and finds himself fighting an emotional barrage again. Hated tears spring into his eyes. He could kick himself for showing his emotions like this.

Studying the floor, he appreciates Jamie’s pat to his arm. She’d always been nice…sweet…able to talk things through with anyone. Con was a blessed guy to have gotten her.

Looking up, Scott keeps the tears from overflowing, and swallows hard. “Thanks, Jamie. I…I know you’re right. I know all that up here.” He taps his head. “It’s just in here…” He puts a hand over his chest. “…that hasn’t been convinced yet.”

Forcing a dry, miserable laugh, he shakes his head. “You’d think with all the blunders I make, this one could just be added to the list without a problem.”

Turning, he goes back around his desk to sit down, not dismissing Jamie, but unsure if she’d stay longer or not. “I want so bad to go see her…talk to her…but she doesn’t even remember who I am…I was somebody with her around…without her, I’m just the geek without a life.” He shakes his head. “And even when she does remember, it still changes nothing. I still can’t have her.”