Found

Bret lifts his eyebrows as Charlotte nears, a small grin forming. As she leans against him to kiss his lips, he cocks his head, his eyes closed as he sets his coffee mug down on the counter behind himself. Both hands free, he wraps his arms around Charlotte, gently rubbing her back as he returns the kiss with equal passion.

Finally drawing back, Bret sighs deeply and rests his forehead against hers, looking her in the eye. "You're better than coffee, you know that?"

Grinning, he pulls her into a hug, squeezing her tight. "Mm....okay...shower." Letting Charlotte go, he grabs his coffee mug to down the rest of the contents before putting it in the sink, and heads out of the kitchen, calling over his shoulder. "Give me five minutes!"

It's actually ten minutes, but Bret is quick, and soon he's grabbing his jacket and his keys. "My turn to drive." He tosses her a quarter. "Your turn to flip."


Distraction = my middle name. Checkup first. Rick. Then lunch. C U then.

It's eleven o'clock when Kyle parks his truck in the TJY parking lot. For all that had happened, he was feeling pretty good, and with a few pain killers, his hand wasn't giving him too much trouble either.

Bounding down the hallway he skids past the infirmary door, only to look back and see Misty, putting on the breaks and backing up, throwing her a silly salute.

Rick looks up from where he's working and raises an eyebrow. "Someone must feel good today."

Kyle shrugs and hops up on the table.

Rick chuckles and shakes his head. "Alright. Let's see how that throat of yours is doing. Have you been doing what I told you?"

Kyle bites his lip, looks to Misty, then back at Rick, giving an unsure nod.

Rick smirks at him. "Kyle..."

"Mostly?" he whispers.

"That's what I thought. And by the sounds of things, it hasn't gotten much better, has it?"

Kyle shakes his head.

Rick sighs and brings a light, starting to examine Kyle's throat. The more he sees, the more he wants to examine, and he winds up taking a whole lot longer than planned. But looking at a couple charts, he believes it was worth it.

Kyle feels as though his throat is on fire after all is said and done, and he doesn't understand Rick's growing enthusiasm.

Rick stares at his notes, and is quick to go to Misty. "Hey...remember when Kyle was poisoned, we thought something was a little different about it?" He nods. "There was. I believe...that they added something to that lethal mixture. Something that they knew the antidote wouldn't get. And it's not enough to kill, but enough to cause trouble." Rick shows her a few of his notes. "Kyle's still got some of that poison in his system. Something about the mixture attacked his weakest spot - his vocal cords. Only problem is, that it's not going away. It's just slowly making things worse."

He glances over to Kyle. "We have to get it completely out of his system somehow, or it's not gonna take long and he'll never be able to talk again. Hard part is finding the cure. Good thing is, once we find it, I believe he'll have a full recovery. We just have to find that cure before there's permanent damage."

Kyle swings his legs as he sits on the table, trying to overcome his worry. He couldn't understand what Rick was saying to Misty, but he had a bad feeling about it. What was going on? Was the news bad?


Carson wipes off the front counter for Mabel, his mind everywhere but his work today. He hadn’t gotten into trouble for being late, since Herb had known he’d been helping with Jess…but his tardiness had affected his work throughout the morning, just seeming to encourage everything to go wrong.

He couldn’t get his mind off of what had happened earlier. He should have known better. He shouldn’t have approached Misty. Though her forgiveness, he felt was genuine did ease some guilty feelings, what remained was still an open wound.

“Oh, Carson!”

He whips back to attention and looks over the counter to a middle-aged woman who had just come in. It was his former landlord. He raises his eyebrows. “Mrs. Flowers.”

She chuckles, obviously loving the accent. “I’m glad I caught you here…” She reaches into her purse and rummages around. “I had some new tenants move into your old apartment…that was quite a while ago, you know. But they kept most of the stuff where it was I guess…that is, the furniture you left.”

She pauses, squinting into her handbag and rolling her eyes. “I know it’s here somewhere,” she mutters. “Anyway, so they were moving the entertainment center last week – you know, where your television set was. And they found something…” Her face is still buried in her purse and finally she pulls the object out. “Ah hah!”

She holds it up so it glints in the light. “I knew it had to be yours because before you were there that place was stark clean.”

Carson looks at the object, stunned for a moment.

Mrs. Flowers’ face drops a little. “It is yours…isn’t it?”

“Y…yes…I mean…yes…it is.” Carson numbly reaches out to take the gold chain and locket from her hand.

“I took the liberty of cleaning it up,” Mrs. Flowers informs. “It had gotten a bit dusty behind that big ol’ thing.” She gives Carson a sly grin. “That picture in there…old love of yours?”

Carson barely hears her as he flips the locket open with his thumbnail. A young Misty stares back at him. Breaking his gaze away from it, he looks up again at Mrs. Flowers, and forces a grateful smile to let her know she’d done a good thing. “You could say that,” he finally replies. “Thanks. I thought I’d lost this for good.”

Clutching the small treasure, Carson retreats to the kitchen where he finds the corner chair. Though supposed to be working, his mind wanders for a few minutes. He rests his elbows on his knees and flips the locket open again.

A slight smile quirks the very corner of his mouth as he replays the memories in his mind. He’d refused the necklace more than once, but Misty had found a way to get him to not only keep it, but wear it. The only other keepsake he’d ever had, had been his own ID bracelet, and he’d given that to her. He wonders now if she had discarded that as he had this necklace on such a night he didn’t want to remember.

Carson finally shuts the locket and collects the chain in his palm to place it in his jeans pocket. Misty was gone now…wearing her close to his heart would just create a new wound. But he wouldn’t be throwing it away again.

You look

*Giving a jump as her phone beeps loudly Misty grabs it from her pocket. Looking down at the message a small smiles forms on her face as the shadows and clouds start to slowly clear. There was something about Kyle. He always had good timing. Flipping open the phone Misty jots a quick text back. Lunch. You, Me. 12, you pick the place. Need the distraction.

Standing up Misty brushes herself off and goes over to the sink and splashing water on her face to finish washing off the rest of her tears. Letting out a sigh Misty heads back to her desk to continue her day till Lunch.*

*Charlotte cocks hear head for moment as if thinking before a grin spreads across her lips.*

"I think it was your idea to get up at seven. We were going to flip but you said you wanted to do it early and get a whole day in."

*Heading into the kitchen Charlotte grabs her own glass down from the shelf and gets some coffee. Taking a sip she finally puts the cup into the sink her eyes twinkling.

Walking over to Bret she places both her hands on the counter around and behind him pinning him up against it and leaning closer to him.*

"I think you look good either way, but a shower might be a good idea. I guess I can wait a little longer or I am gonna go alone."

*Not giving Bret a chance to answer Charlotte press her lips against his in a passionate kiss that lingers for a moment.*

Gone

For a fleeting instant, Carson could almost feel the tiny flame of hope. But just as quickly, it’s vanished.

There is relief there. Misty’s forgiveness was something he’d longed for, and it did ease some pain. But still, forgiveness without the love made him feel just as empty.

He reaches out a hand, ready to say more, but she’s already turned her back and gone into the infirmary. And like the shifting wind, his last chance was gone.

Gritting his teeth, Carson aims back for the little guest room. Ignoring a greeting by Hal, he desperately fights the unwanted tears that have filled his eyes. Confused. Lost. Alone.

Blinking back the emotions, he slips into the dim room and finds his socks and tennis shoes. He had to get out of here.

Scribbling a quick note to Jess that he was at work and Rick would take care of her, he leaves it on the bedside table.

And without another stop, he heads back down the hall at a quick pace, the exit his only destination. Just passing the infirmary makes his heart scream in pain, but he keeps walking. He had to. It was all he had now.


Unaware of events unseen from across the town, a text message is typed out and sent to reach its destination. Perhaps the sender can feel the tears across the miles. Or perhaps it's Someone else's timing that creates the moment's time.
"Dreamed of singing last night. Dreamed you were the cure. Didn't need a nightlight. 'Cause I thought of you."

Forgive

*Listing to Carson Misty's own heart aches. Its being torn in two all over again. Stand to the mornal of thing or give into her heart Misty was standing again...*

"I forgive you Carson."

*Taking a step back Misty can no longer controll herself and as the tears fall more she enters back into the infermary and closes the door behind her. The memories had flooded back ten fold, the memories had been to much to bare the pain she felt again from what had happend had been tomuch and made her break down.

Leaning aganst the door Misty slids to the floor, her head spinning, but than a soft voice enters her mind and brings a small smile to her face through the pain. Kyle had been there, Kyle was there now even though he wasent in the flesh, his memorie was there trying to cheer her up. Kyle...Misty new where her heart truly layed, and though she had forgiven Carson, thats where it stoped.*

entire world

Carson just stares back at Misty for several seconds, his eyes not wandering from hers. His heart felt as though it were being ripped in two all over again. "Because I'm a fool. Because I'm the kind of guy who doesn't know what he's got until it's gone. Because I played with fire. Because I couldn't say no to a good time."

He shakes his head slowly. "Take your pick."

His own emotions pool behind his eyes but he doesn't care. "And if I could go back and change one thing in my entire life, that would be it. Because the day I made that stupid mistake, I lost my entire world."

Why

*Misty blinks and flicks some tears away from her eyes. Her heart hated seeing Carson like this, her heart hated seeing her like this.*

"Than why, why did you do this? Why did you let this happen again Carson?"

*Misty's eyes plead for the answer to the question she had been asking for so long.*

always

Carson spins around in surprise, the agony written all over his face at seeing Misty's tears. A sorry shadow of a smile toys with the very edges of his mouth. "They always have, Misty...and they always will."

....

*As Carson exits Misty's office her heart once again screams, and kicking. The love was burryed but it told her not to let it end like this. No, not to let him walk away like this. Getting up from her desk fast Misty's desk chair falls backwards as she rushes to the door. Steping out and standing in the hall Misty keeps her eyes focused on Carson back.*

"CARSON....."

*Misty takes a step forward her eyes fill with tear she could not controll now.*

"Do they?"

Defeat

Carson’s eyes flicker with a hint of surprise, mixed with the hurt he’d been afraid of. He’d been prepared for rejection, but it still hurt. He knew he deserved it…he deserved Misty’s harshness, and a whole lot more on top of that. But…it still hurt.

Swallowing hard, he finally drops his gaze – not something he’d done much around her. A part of him wanted to get upset and defend himself. What right had she to keep him from apologizing if he wanted to? Yet he was too tired for that kind of defiance. It wasn’t worth the breath. Despite the softness Carson saw in Misty’s eyes, he knew she’d made up her mind. He truly had lost her this time.

Finally he looks back up, still leaning on the doorframe, and letting out a weak, dry laugh. “I bet it’s nice seeing me on the other end of things for a change…getting what I deserve.” He shakes his head, feeling like a fool. “I guess…I guess I just wanted…to see you again…to see how you were…to see if your eyes could still make my heart stop.”

He straightens up and takes a deep breath, preparing to turn around and leave. Hooking his thumbs in his pockets, he cocks his head, looking at Misty one more time. His voice comes out slowly and quietly. “And then…when the warrior has defeated himself at his own game and the conqueror has called his bluff, he must bow to the enemy. For to accept the defeat and command a retreat is more honorable than losing his life in battle. And so he does, bringing the war to an end.”

Giving a little nod, Carson’s eyes linger on Misty’s face, filled with the utter dismay he felt for his actions that had caused this circumstance. Finally turning around, he aims back down the hall. He should go…go to work and get away from this place.


Bret mumbles something that can’t be understood, and turns around to look at the clock. Sure enough, Charlotte was right. “Aw, crap.”

Fumbling around his bedroom, he grabs a pair of jeans to put on, and staggers out into the hall, reaching the top of the stairs just as Charlotte yells up at him. “I’m coming, I’m coming!” he retorts.

Coming down the stairs as he leans against the wall, his eyes are barely open. “Who was the idiot who said he’d be ready at this time of the morning anyway?”

Reaching the kitchen he goes straight for the coffee pot that had already filled half an hour earlier. Grabbing a mug, he pours himself a cup and takes several long swallows. Leaning back against the counter he scrunches shut his eyes before opening them wide, trying to wake up. “Do I at least have time for a shower? I don’t think you really want me along without having had one this morning.”

No Sorry

Looking up at Bret's voice a grin cross Charlotte's lips as she brings a hand to her eyes to shield the sun. Her hair done up nicley in a ponytail her sunglass sat on the top of her head as well. Fashioned in a babyblue tank and a par of cacky capres. Giving a laugh at how he looked Charlotte finally composes herself the best she can as she gets a look of puzzlement.

"Ohhh..yeah I forgot I had a key. I know you said seven. It's seven thiry-five now. YOUR the one who is late."

Charlotte shakes her head as she fishes in her purse for her key and than enters the house. Closing the door behind her she stands at the steps and yells up them.

"Well hurry up already?"

Though Bret can't see her Charlotte's grin is big. After moving here Charlotte got a job at the recently redone caves as a ture guild. She liked the work it was fun and she liked telling the history and what not of the makings on the walls. In between she helped Angelica with her case work but most times her sister was good at doing it all without getting behind.

Today was her day off though the first in many and she couldent wait to spend the day with Bret liked planed. She always looked forward to the fun they always had.


*Misty looks up from her desk and with a jump and see Carson standing in the doorway. For a long moment Misty just looks at him not saying anything. Misty wasn’t sure what to say to him. A part of her wanted to throw her arms around him and give him a hug though she new better. Nothing said Carson changed, nothing said he was different. But though he might not be, Misty had and her heart had found someone who helped it heal even if she still did love Carson it was tucked away now that lived as only a memories. Misty couldent run to him, she couldent let herself get hurt again not to mention she liked someone alse. Her eyes narrow, and than go normal again before she finally reply.*

"Whatever it is Carson, I dont want to hear it. I'm tired of the I'm sorrys. You over used them and they lost there meaning. So dont even bother. If you want to say something other than I am sorry you may."

*Though Misty's eyes show she means what she said but behind the meaning her eyes also show a softness that goes unsead as she studdys Carson's face.*

*Katie takes the OJ and drinks it with a smile thankful for Jen's greatfulness. After a little bit more small talk with Jen and her family Katie bids them good day and starts to head for work.

Once arriving at TJY Katie heads right to her desk to start the day.*

seven o'clock

Though having been sleeping soundly, the soft click of the door shutting is enough to jolt Carson from his dream. His eyes open wide and he scans the dim room from his position on the floor. It takes him a second or two to remember where he is, and he rolls onto his back, his shoulder sore from sleeping on such a hard surface.

Suddenly he's totally alert and sits up straight. The door had been ajar the last he knew and it was closed now. A sweet scent hits his nostrils and he blinks. He recognized that smell. He'd always loved it and for a moment it hits him hard with a wave of memories.

Getting to his feet, Carson looks down on Jess, seeing that she's still asleep. Putting a hand on the doorknob, he hesitates. He didn't even know why he wanted this. Maybe because he still felt as though he'd left things unfinished. And now trying to sort things out and turn things around, he just...wanted... He shakes his head. He wasn't even sure.

Exiting the small room, he squints in the hall lights. He knew he must look a mess in the clothes he'd slept in, he hadn't shaved since two nights ago, and his hair was matted.

Carson shuts the door softly and pads in his bare feet down to the infirmary. Looking inside, he sees that Rick's office light is on, but he's out of sight. The only person in sight is Misty. His eyes growing dim, he just watches her, remembering so many times that he'd just walked in uninvited to give and receive a kiss...to tease and flirt...to make plans for a date.

The reality seems so dark and cold compared to the memories.

He starts to turn and leave. This was stupid. She wouldn't want to talk to him, and it would only cause his wound to hurt more.

But something stops him again. He knew his conscience's prodding...so many times before he'd ignored it. Would he again, and be left with even more questions?

Swallowing the hated fear, he turns back around and before he can back out again, he knocks his knuckles softly on the door. "Morning..."


Jen, her mom and stepfather all smile their good morning to Katie, welcoming her as they would anyone else in their home. Even though Phil had explained to him the dangers that were happening, they had given their worries to God, and had decided to proceed with caution, but not fear. Katie was welcomed both as a friend and as a protector.

Jen grins and offers Katie some orange juice. "Thanks for everything, Katie. We really appreciate it. And I know Kyle probably slept better last night, knowing you were here." She nods. "I'll definitely call you if anything strange at all happens, or we run into trouble.


Brent's eyes fly open as he hears the pounding on his door. Straining to hear, he realizes that the pounding was followed by Charlotte's voice.

Literally rolling out of bed with a thud, he scrambles on all fours to the window, throwing it open and looking down to the first story to see Charlotte on the porch. His hair was askew, his tee wrinkled and crooked. "Woman!"

He squints in the sunlight, the brightness giving him an instant headache. His words are mumbled as he still tries to wake up. "Leave and you spend the day alone. But for pete's sake, don't break down the door. That's why I gave you a key."

Bret leans on the open window sill, crossing his arms to form a place to rest his head, still mumbling. He didn't even realize what late time it was. "Besides, I said seven o'clock..."

1....2...3

As Misty turns her car off she lets out a long sigh stretching. The morning had come all too soon and Misty just wanted to go back to bed.

Grabbing her phone from the seat next to her along with her wallet she flips it open and thumbs through the text messages. Finding the last one Kyle sent her Misty reads it again and smiles. It was nice to have someone who did cute little things like that.

Walking into TJY things are fairly dark still being so early in the morning only a few cubicle lights were on. Continuing her root to the infirmary Misty notices the door to the extra bedroom was open. That was odd it was always kept closed. Walking closer some of the lights from one of the cubicles shines enough that the room is slightly illuminated. Opening the door a little bit more Misty peeks in. Seeing the form in the bed she can make out the cuts and burses on her face as she is curled up into a tight ball. Though her face was battered Misty new she saw the woman before but couldn’t put her finger on it. Than a figure on the floor catches Misty’s eye as her eyes meet Carson’s sleeping form. What? Why was he here? What had happened yesterday, than now caused Carson to be at TJY. Looking up at the woman in the bed again Misty realizes where she had seen her. That had been one of the women from Mom and Pop’s that one day.

Letting out a sigh Misty goes to the leave the room but stops glancing back down at Carson as he was fast asleep. Leaning her head against the door frame she just watches him for a long moment. Memories flow through Misty’s mind as she stands there. Some bringing a bit of pain but most bring a smile. How her time with Carson had been an enjoyable one that ended all too soon. Letting out another soft sigh Misty turns and closes the door softly before her mind is aloud to wonder any farther down the path that ended in pain.

Finishing her rout to the infirmary Misty turns the lights on and starts preparing stuff for the day before finally sitting down to concentrate on some paper work.


Katie opens her eyes slowly as she hears the sound of voices. For a moment her mind plays tricks on her and as she smiles hearing her mom and dad talking. But as she becomes aware of her surrounding and wakes more the realization sinks in it was only a dream and she was at Jen’s house.

Sitting up form the small couch in the living room Katie does a quick once over checking to make sure everything was in order before heading into the kitchen where the voices were coming from. Entering Katie gives a smile and a soft wave.

“Good Morning!”

Taking a seat next to Jen Katie holds her smile though she is not ready for a new day. The night had passed to quickly and did not offer nearly enough sleep.

“It looks like everything is in order this morning. Nothing seems to be out of place or strange. I will probly be leaving for work shortly. If you need anything you know the number to call Jen, than I will be back later tonight.”

Katie offers another smile as reassurance and gives Jen’s arm a gentil pat.


A loud bang comes to Bret’s front door as Charlotte’s voice rings from the porch.

“HEY, Hey you better not be wallowing up there. We had a date remember? Yes…A date this early in the morning, remember? We were going to go to the mountains.”

Charlotte can’t help but shake her head and laugh to herself as she stands at the door. Pulling a coin from her pocket she gives a grin.

“If I flip this coin and your not out here Bret, heads is I leave, tails I break your door down. Here I go…1….2….3….”

Dawn greeting lives

Heading back inside with Mike, Jason pauses, looking toward the quiet road. A faint smile surfaces. It was strange... It wasn't an audible sound in his mind...it wasn't even words. It was a new language that somehow was simply understood. One that could never be explained or described...only felt.

Feeling a little less alone, Jason climbs the porch steps and enters the house again to stay for a while longer.


Scott chuckles and nods. "The last time I left Domino out, she didn't talk to me for two days." Grinning, they slow for a stop sign and turn, heading towards town.


Kyle gives a little smirk at Misty, but nods to assure her that if he needed anything, he would call her. He remains quiet most of the ride back. He knew he shouldn't be talking at all, and it was too dark to sign or write anything down.

Once they reach the apartment, he pauses before getting out of the car, studying Misty for just a moment. He was grateful for her support today at Mike's...and though they both knew that their relationship had caused this chain of events, he wasn't going to be sorry about it.

Working at it for a moment without his voice, he gets across, "Have a good day tomorrow at work. I'll be in sometime to see Rick so I'll see you then."

Reaching down, he gives her hand a squeeze, then slips out of the car, shutting the door and tapping the roof with his palm as if telling her "go." Walking backward, he watches her leave and gives a wave before turning to go inside. Once in bed, it takes him no more than thirty seconds to be sound asleep.

Before sleep though, one task is done, and a text message is sent to Misty's phone. "I need...oh, no, false alarm. Nevermind. The night light is working fine and I just found my teddy bear. I can sleep now. Goodnight."


Carson can feel how much Jess is trying to be strong, and though respecting her for it, knows that it's healthier just to let it all out.

He stays close, just letting her talk. Not saying much, but listening. Just listening as the time slips away. Her stories bring a sense of melancholy - both a sympathy for her, and memories from Carson's own past that he had never shared with anyone.

By the time the stories are through, both are further back on the bed, leaned against the wall, so awake but so tired at the same time.

Jess' comment about feeling safe makes Carson feel good...as though maybe he's finally done something right again. He'd messed up so many things lately that to actually be of help to someone was almost like a new sensation.

"You deserve to feel safe more often," he comments quietly.

Letting out a long slow sigh, Carson gives her shoulders a little squeeze and pats her arm before straightening and finally moving to stand up. Stretching, he yawns, trying to figure out where to go from here. It was late. He didn't want to walk back to Mom and Pop's at this hour. Maybe he'd just stay right here and slip out early before others got in to work.

"You should get some sleep," he prompts Jess gently. Pulling the covers down on the bed for her, he directs her under the sheets. Moving just a short ways away, Carson lowers himself to the floor, grabbing an extra blanket for a pillow. "If you need anything in the night, Jess, I'm right here."


As the stars make their way across the sky and the moon shines its light on the night, dreams filter on the air, and sleep takes over weary souls. Exhaustion rules some dreamless sleep, while stress and heartache give battles to others whose eyes remain open.

And when the morning comes, a new day is presented with feelings of change in the wind. There were things people could not predict. Chain reactions that had been put into play long before, now to affect the lives of those so closely intertwined.


Outside of town, the sun rises on the little country house, waking one who looks forward to the day, now that love has found him once again.

An apartment lies quiet as one has already left to work for the day, the other sound asleep in bed with no intentions of rising until he wakes.

A house is roused gently with the rustle of a large friend nuzzling his master awake. The recipient of the cold, wet nose rolls over to block out the sunlight, but knows the inevitable truth, that the day had come.

Across town, another house is alive with lights, plans for the day already starting as the figure gets ready for work, helped by the little black and white pup.

One whose life has changed so much, rises to greet the dawn. Without work to greet him back, his goals have changed to the hunt of things to keep busy.

Another with the same goal to find work lies sleeping, waiting for the sun to rise just a little further before rolling out of bed. Heads, he'd sleep late. Tails, he'd get up in half an hour.

Gentle voices are heard in the spacious house across the way as parents speak to their daughter. It's a house of peace, despite the threats, and the presence of a friend to keep watch has helped sleep come easier in the night.

One house is awakened by one rising, while another returns from the night. The riser prepares for the day, while the one coming slips into bed. Lives so different...one settled and confident, following his father's footsteps. The other unsure and unsteady, frustrated with things unable to be conquered.

A cat's meow bids his mistress farewell as the house is opened and shut for the day, an early day starting. Paperwork was waiting.

TJY's quietness slowly is overtaken by voices and the whirring of computers started for the day. While in a little room, one has forgotten to rise before the faces have shown up

Lives were connected in a tangled web only the Maker could see. But in His eyes, it was a web of hearts and lives that would someday see their purpose and their connections as His plans were revealed.

Listen

*Katie smiles as she leans on Scott as they walk to his car. Ice cream did sound good. Soon all to soon it would be to cold, and the ice cream would be missed. Katie dident mind getting as much as she could now before than.*

"Ice cream sounds perfect and you better bring some home for the kid to or she will never let you live it down."

*Katie can't help but laugh as she gets into Scott's car and pull out heading down the road. As Katie looks out the window she receves Jason's message. It felt strange to communicate through there emotions and it seemed easyer than it use to be. Was this another stage of there powers evolving? Closing her eyes for a moment she consintrates putting together emotions to send a message back. Good Night J. Sleep well and if you need anything at all you know how to get a hold of me. -smile-. Opening her eyes again Katie smiles and turns to Scott to continues some small talk as they headed to the ice cream shop.*

*Misty can't help but shake her head a little bit and laugh though seeing the tired look in Kyle's eyes she new he needed to get home to bed though she would like the night to last forever she new it could not. *

"I want you to get lots of sleep tonight and if you need anything promise to call me ok? Or if anything feels wrong call me. It does not matter the time. Take it easy for goodness sake while I am at work as well would you."

*Misty can't help the cheesy grin as she continues to head down the road aiming for Kyle's apartment.*

*As Carson puts his arm around Jess she gives a little jump but not because she was scaired but more so because she wasent exspecting it. It was strange to her now to see Carson like this. It was so much differnt from the man she met only weeks ago. Carson had never answered her question about if this was the real him, but some where inside Jess where a little bit of emotion romed layed the feeling that this was the person Carson was when he wasent lost.

Relaxing Jess leans her head onto Carson's chest. The tear welled behind her eyes but she refused to let them come out. Crying was something she dident do, no matter how much she wanted too. Though unexspectly Jess found comfort in Carson's arms. Her body gives a little shake as Jess trys to recover from the trama of everything still. Its own defence meckanisum. The more her mind windered as the shelter was offered to her though and finally a single tear rolls down her cheek. Nothing more, nothing less it was enough to show that Jess was almost filled to the top with emotions that were ready to break free sooner or later. The only thing unknown would be where or when.

As Jess feels the shelter of Carson and she grows tired, Jess starts to babble about things she never talked about with anymore. Maybe she was not even awair of what she is saying herself. She talks about her life, and how things where always hard. She talked about how though she new Peter wasent the greatest he was all she though she ever deserved. Going from her childhood growing up in an orphanage back to her older years of how she messed her life up, to skipping back to her years now. Her midn proving that what had happend recently had dug up and split open many wounds.*

"Having someone sit and listen to me is strange. Having someones arms around me and feeling safe is strange. I've never had that before right now. It kind of feels good."

Better than the cell

As the discussion around the table goes on, ideas are tossed about, shot down, picked up, twisted around and laid flat. Each time they come back to the same idea they’d started out with – if Cryptic would help them this weekend, they’d proceed with the show and up the security all the way around. If Cryptic couldn’t help, they would postpone shows until Kyle could play well enough again, and at that time, the security would also be tight.

By the time the decisions have been made, it's already getting late into the evening. Phil had already called in to work to be able to stay and sort things out, and minds were growing weary. Kyle was getting exhausted, the last couple days catching up to him fast.

The evening is a chilly one, but the air feels nice after being in the stuffy house. Everyone has filed out onto the back deck, prepping to leave for the night.

Scott slings his arm around Katie, leaning in close to her ear. "Stop for ice cream on the way back to town? Then you can go to Jen's."

Phil waves his goodnight to everyone and heads for his truck to take Jen home and go home himself, while Kyle said he'd ride back with Misty. Once Phil got back to town, he'd also inform their parents about what was happening, so when Katie arrived, they would know what was going on.

Heading for Misty's car, Kyle finally slows down a bit, not having let his weariness show too much before this point. His head was spinning, hurting, his stomach was upset, and his hand wouldn't stop throbbing. But he pastes a smile on his face anyway, not wanting the ride back to be a dismal one.

Sliding into the passenger seat, he points a finger towards home, aiming it with a squint and a click of his tongue.


Jason ambles off the porch, the last to leave. Leaning on one crutch, he watches the other taillights disappear out of sight. It was nights like these that he felt alone. Goodnight, Katie.

"Wanna jam for a while?"

Jason turns back around to Mike, a small smile forming. "Sure...why not."


Carson cocks his head and looks at Jess, knowing that she was just searching for some way to stop the pain. He knew how she felt to a certain degree and it wasn't fun.

Giving in, he slowly approaches and eases down on the bed next to her, leaning back against the wall. "At least you're not in the holding cell," he muses. "It's not as cozy as this." He stops himself, realizing that he'd just opened the floodgates to too many of his own memories. Like a photo album being flipped through at fast pace, he remembers when he first came here, and the time spent with Misty. For a while, she'd been the only one who cared...and she never had been afraid of him, even when he'd tried to scare her away.

Carson shakes his head a little, clearing his mind. Seeing Jess hunched over with her arms around herself, he can't help the sympathy that insists on sticking around. He'd screwed up in so many ways...so many times he hadn't helped those who were hurting, or had caused that hurt himself.

Slowly he sits back up and slides a little closer, careful not to startle or scare Jess away. He didn't want his actions to be threatening or suggestive in any way, but rather he wanted to be a shelter. In a way, he missed being able to hold someone close and know that they felt safe in his arms. Reaching over gently, he puts an arm around Jess' shoulder, giving her a little squeeze. "It's going to be okay," he whispers. "You're going to be okay..." He knows his actions and words are an invitation for her to cry on his shoulder if she needs to, and he doesn't mind. "I'm here for as long as you need me."

Cards

*Misty leans into Kyle's arm as he slings it around her. Even though the look on his face told her this wasent her fault she couldent help the feeling that lingered anyways. Misty just stays silent and listens to the rest of the conversation as her own mind trys to process everything.*

*Kaite listens and takes everything in playing in her own mind the stuff they could do for more sacurity.*

"Well first off, If Jen dosent mind, I wont mind staying with her over nights at her place for a little bit. That way I can keep my eye on things at that time."

*Katie stops again as she scans the others collecting her thoughts.*

"Well, we can scan who comes into the park, its not normal but its probley nessary. I think Con, Myself, Nate and Wyatt might be the best canadtes as for the added sacurity. We should be ok, as long as we do our jobs and stay alirt this time and not as layed back. I'm up for the challange. I promised I would protect you guy and by golly I will."

*Jess steps in the small room and looks around. The room was bear, with while walls it wasent much but it certinly was nicer looking than Jess place. Sitting down on the bed Jess wraps her arms around herself and just stairs off into the distince for a moment before looking up at Carson. Her voice stays flat showing little emotions. She dident have the emergy, and she still let sore and like crap.*

"The company is always nice. Better than stairing at blank walls. But I dont....dont want to take up anymore of your time. I'll probley fall asleep on you anyways. Or I could sujest we play some cards but we know where that got us last time."

*As Jess sits leaning up again the wall how she wished she had a beer right now. To take away the pain, to take away the memories. To erase the smell, and sound of Peter's voice that echoed in her ears. Jess just wanted to forget, she just wanted to make him mind blank though still if she forgot now, there was a long hard road ahead one that would bring up the memories many times no matter how many times she drank them away.*

Substitute

Jason receives Katie's response, at first unable to decipher it, but then understanding, and suddenly realizing how smoothly they'd just communicated. Any other time or place, he would have stopped to comment, but now wasn't the time.

Kyle glances down to Misty and sees the look in her eye that he knew would be there. She felt guilty...she was apologizing. And it made him feel all the more bad.

His eyes narrowing a little, he throws her a warning glance that demanded she not take on responsibility for this. Turning back to Katie, he nods and shrugs a little, indicating that more security might be an option. His expression still implied he didn't want to miss this weekend, though he was giving in a little, his temper having cooled down.

Mike grimaces a little. "I don't know guys...how much are we willing to risk?"

Jason taps his finger on the table absentmindedly. "Kyle, if you got this right...the next time they hit, it's going to be hard. What will they try for next?"

Kyle thinks, then shakes his head. How could he even guess?

Jason, however, knows, and prompts him to figure it out himself. "What's important to you, Kyle? What could they take that would be most devastating?"

Suddenly Kyle's eyes widen and he immediately looks to his sister.

Jen swallows hard. She knew. If the Agency wanted to completely crush Kyle, they would come after her.

Mike reaches under the table to take her hand, giving it a reassuring squeeze. "So we up the security on Jen."

Kyle's face has paled slightly, an he finally sits back down, leaning his forehead on his hand, trying to sort all this out. How much was he really willing to risk? If it were just himself, he didn't care. But Jen? She was the most obvious target. Was he willing to risk that? Yet at the same time, if they didn't stand up and fight, it would just continue.

Jason shrugs. "Well...we can do that...keep a closer eye on things...make sure she's not alone. It's either that, Kyle, or you can quit flirting with the Agency's enemy."

Kyle lifts his head to throw Jason a glare. His relationship with Misty might not be at the deepest level, but it was certainly beyond flippant flirting. To prove his point, he leans back in his chair and puts an arm around Misty in utter defiance of the suggestion.

Jason backs off, realizing the bounds he had just overstepped. "Alright, so scratch that." He gives Katie a sidelong glance and sighs, admitting through his emotions, only to her, his embarrassment for his own remark. "So what are we going to do, guys? Katie? You're the only security we've got right now. Who else would you suggest? And how can we keep Jen safe?"

Phil interrupts them. "We got more than one thing going on here though guys...The Agency is by far the most intense, but we have to think about Kyle's condition right now too." He looks at his brother with concern, knowing how touchy Kyle was about it, but it had to be said. "I'm just not sure you should be up there trying to play right now. And we still haven't decided what to do about backup vocals."

Kyle drops his gaze, the frustration returning. He was supposed to see Rick tomorrow for a checkup...after today's little shouting match, who knew what Rick would say. As for his hand, it would be several months before he could really play the keyboard fully again.

"You could help Jen with sound," Mike suggests.

Phil shakes his head. "We sound better with a keyboard in the mix though. Do we want to downsize to a three-piece until he can play?"

"How about having someone come substitute?"

Kyle can feel heat rising to his face and he refuses to look up. He knew they all meant well, but no matter what, each suggestion just dug the knife in a little further.

"Hey, I know..." Mike nods with enthusiasm. "Cryptic is coming home - I heard something about that the other day. They've been traveling all over the place, but are now going to take a break or there's a rumor that they're even going to disband, I don't know. But anyway, Rocky's always offered to help us out if we needed anything, and you know Taylor could get him to do anything."

Kyle quirks an eyebrow. He glances at Misty. That was the band that had backed him up and recorded his singing.

Mike continues. "We could at least give him a call and see if he'd be willing to sub on short notice for this weekend. He still owes us for the time we bailed him out at that one concert." A slight grin appears at the memory. "Then we can decide more after that..."

Kyle wasn't so sure...he didn't like being replaced...it just felt like salt to the wound. But at least they wouldn't cancel...at least he trusted Rocky...and though running sound wasn't the most fun in the world, at least he could help with that and relieve Jen some too.

Phil looks around at everyone. "Well...we can give him a call. Kyle, you got his number?"

Kyle nods.

Phil shrugs. "What do you all say? Katie...if we get a sub and do this weekend, think you could recruit some more help from TJY? Maybe Nate? Wyatt?"

Jason grins a little. "Con's out of work right now. I bet he'd be glad to play bodyguard for a night too."

Jen sits up a little straighter. "I'm game." She looks to Katie as her friend for support. "And I think Kyle and Katie are right...the Agency needs to know that we're not that easy to knock down."


Carson gives a little sigh and shakes his head at Jess. "What's done in the past is done...I didn't exactly make the right choices either, so...don't apologize."

Hearing the short discussion, Rick's mind wanders a little, wondering what the relationship was between these two, and wondering at Carson's meek demeanor. Rick had heard rumors about all that had happened...he knew Carson didn't have a car or any place to live right now...had he finally broken?

"Alright, Jess... Let's get this overwith so you can get comfortable again." Rick gives her an encouraging nod that everything was going to be okay. "Jamie's right here and Carson will wait right outside."

Carson takes the hint and gives Jess a wink before backing off and leaving the three alone.

It's a while later that Rick is showing Jess the little guest room, letting her know where everything was, and telling her that she could help herself to anything in the break room. Wyatt would go get her vehicle from Mom and Pop's and park it at TJY for the night, and the case would be handed over to Angelica immediately so that legal action could be taken against Peter.

Carson is still there, and left alone with Jess in the room, he looks around, remembering is own time spent here before he'd gotten his own place. "You don't have to worry about a thing as long as you're here, Jess...there will be more than one person here all night."

He glances at the clock. He didn't know what to do... He didn't want to leave her alone if she was going to panic, but he didn't want to stay and have her feel smothered either. "You be alright here now? Or do you need the company?"

Pain

*Katie looks to Scott and than looks to Jason across the table receveing his feelings and knowing what he was thinking. Pushing her own feeling back at him and making there presence known. I know you didn't mean for this to happen. It's just delikit right now the band means everything to Kyle. Katie lets out a sigh and runs a hand over her face as she thinks for a moment.*

"Yeah know, if we raise the sacurity level around the concerts maybe but more than just me on for a little bit we might be ok. I don't know though. Kyle has a point though. If you cancle all the concerts we are just showing the Agency won. Thats how it was for my aunt and her friends. The Agency dident stop till they split up and got what they wanted everyone away from eachother. I think we need to stand tall, and show them they can't drag us down. If anything just cancle the concert this weekend. Than keep the rest for now."

*As Misty re-enters the house she goes back over to the chair and sits down as Kyle stands. Keeping her eyes on him Misty listens to what he has to say. As Kyle continues to talk and explain what was going on the relization hites her and she know the pain on her face shows it. The though hadent even crossed her mind that the Angecy might be attaching Kyle because of her.

Misty's shoulders just drop a little as she keeps her eyes on Kyle. She felt so horrable right now. If she hadent of continued to persued Kyle this wouldent have happend. It was her fault he was hurt now. That in itself hurt to think she indeed was the reason Kyle might never sing again. On top of that the saprise of the other was a bit awkward as well. Was it really that much of a shock to them? Misty hadent even though it wasent obvus. Latly where ever Kyle was outside of work she was there too.

Misty dosent take her eyes off Kyle as she trys to convay to him without words she was sorry. Finally as the conversation reverts again Misty looks down at the napkin in front of her and than she scans the room. Her mind raced over everything so fast.*

*As the three coming back into the infermary Jess looks up her eyes offering thanks to Jamie. She new she told them but it felt better having someone alse do it than herself.

As Rick talks about tests Jess gives a understanding nod.*

"I unerstand, and sleeping here would...would be fine I guess. I just...I don't know how I feel right now, about anything."

*Jess eyes move back to the ground the pain great. Her mind moving miles a minute.

As Carson tucks her hair behind her ear she looks over at him. She felt so small but having a friend helped.*

"I'm the best I can be at the moment I guess."

*Jess swallows hard before talking again.*

"Carson, thanks for staying.I'm sorry I never did the same."

Theory

Kyle can hear someone exiting the house, and as Misty draws near, he knows it's her. Feeling her arms as she embraces him, he can't help but give in to it, accepting the comfort rather than resisting. He wasn't too big to admit that right now, a hug felt good.

He puts his good arm around her too, just resting his head against hers.

Her words hit home. He knows she's right. Not only did it just plain make sense, but it was Biblical, and he certainly hadn't acted very Christian-like a few minutes ago.

Kyle closes his eyes as Misty runs her fingers through her hair. Every moment he spent with her, he enjoyed her presence more.

Finally he opens his eyes to look at her, and gives a little nod. "I'm sorry," he whispers.


Scott glances to Katie, to the guys and back again, not knowing what was going to happen now. He knew that it was not like Kyle to have an outburst like that, even if the situation was tough. It was evident that this whole thing had hit him a little harder than maybe they'd thought.

Jason swallows hard , upset by Kyle's reaction. He looks across the table to Katie, searching her eyes. He felt distressed...upset...frustrated and confused. Everything compacted together, each level of emotions creating a readable pattern. I didn't want this to happen...I just don't understand. I want to fix it and I don't know how.

A tear rolls down Jen's cheek, sensitive to her brother's feelings. Phil starts to rise from his chair, but Jen stops him. "No...see if Misty can bring him back around."

Phil sighs and eases back down, rubbing a hand over his face. "I thought our decision made sense."

"It does," Mike agrees. "At least until we get this thing figured out."


Kyle takes a deep breath and lets it out slowly, eventually letting his arm drop from Misty. The look in his eye is one of sadness, the flame of spark still there, but dim and so small. He knew he'd have to show the others what was really going on. He knew he'd have to explain to Jason. The worst part of it would be seeing Misty realize it.

Nodding to the door, Kyle lets Misty go first, and slowly follows back inside.

Everyone looks up expectantly and relieved to see Kyle back. While the others stay seated, Kyle remains standing, just leaning an arm on the back of his chair. "Sorry guys," he hoarsely manages.

Phil gives his arm a nudge. "It's alright."

Kyle shakes his head. His throat hurt and he knew he shouldn't be talking any more, but there was no way he could write all this down or gesture everything. "No...it's not."

Jason sighs, leaning back in his chair. "It's just temporary, Kyle. I'm sorry that you've gotten dragged into this. I don't know what the Agency's goal is...the only thing I can come up with is that they're trying to get to me by hurting you, and for that, I feel terrible."

Kyle looks to Jason, his eyes filled with emotions. Glancing to Misty, his eyes apologize to her. Turning back to Jason, he shakes his head again. "It's not you, Jase...it's me."

Jason's confusion intensifies. "What do you mean?"

"Don't you see?" Kyle tries to ignore the pain of speaking. "My voice...my hand...it's a direct hit to me."

"But why? You have nothing to do with them."

"They're punishing me...for being around someone they hate."

Jason still doesn't understand. He looks to Katie then back to Kyle. "But they've never punished you before for being around Katie or me. Why now?"

Kyle looks down for a moment, closing his eyes. Gritting his teeth, he finally looks up again. "But I never dated you, now did I?"

Jason furrows his brow, his mind trying to get what Kyle was saying. Suddenly his eyes widen and stray to Misty. "Misty...?"

Phil's eyebrows shoot up and Jen's mouth drops slightly. They look to Kyle for an explanation, though it's obvious now.

Kyle glances to Misty with further apology before answering Jason. "Yeah. And that has to be the answer..."

Phil continues to look between Kyle and Misty. "You two...why didn't..."

Kyle's eyes narrow slightly. "No one's business?" He tries to bring the conversation back on track. "Look...the Agency isn't going to give up. They're going to pick me apart until I break. I can't let them win...if we cancel our concerts, they're getting exactly what they want."


Rick nods slowly to all that Jamie was saying, the sadness showing in his eyes. Dealing with these cases never got any easier. "Thank you, Jamie. I appreciate all your help. I wish Misty was here...Jess might feel better about more examinations, but we need to get this done and over with before we lose evidence."

He sighs deeply. "If Peter did all that to her, then we definitely have a case. He took advantage of her and assaulted her. But we need proof of DNA. Jess isn't going to like it, so I want you there again to help her through it. On top of that, it might be good just to have her stay here the night."

Carson purses his lips at Jamie's suggestion of him staying. "I can stay...Herb will let me for something like this. Just I..." He thinks about his surroundings and how awkward it felt to be here. But he couldn't think about himself right now. "Yeah...I'll see if Jess wants me."

The group goes back into the infirmary, though Wyatt breaks off from them to go report to Reese.

Carson approaches Jess slowly, offering her a comforting smile. "Hey you...you doing okay?" He tucks a strand of hair behind her ear.

Rick is alongside him, being as gentle as possible. "Jess...I need to do a little bit more so we have some evidence about what happened...then we'd like it if you stayed here the night. I'll be here all night, and there's a nice little room right down the hall where you can get some good rest. Would you do that?"

Sunset

*Misty gives a little jump to Kyle's shout and his pound on the table. She hadent exspected it but she could understand his frustrations just a little. The band was a big part of his life if people saw it or not. Kyle had his voice taken away, his hand taken away, and now playing and the band all togther was being taken away. Misty couldent imagen how it must of felt.

Watching Kyle get up from the table and go out the door Misty's heart wants to scream. She could see both sides of the spectrum. She new Kyle's point, and she new the others point as well.

Glancing around the table Misty excuses herself and heads the way Kyle went exiting out onto the pourch. Coming up along side Kyle Misty just stands for a moment not saying any thing only watching the sunset. Finally Misty reaches out to Kyle and puts an arm around him and slowly turns him twords her wrapping her other around him as well and just draws him close to her as she offers a hug of comfort. Just holding him Misty dosn't say anything. Letting the silence rain for a moment. Finally Misty speaks in a soft tone as she leans her head aganst Kyle, and her arms still wrapped around him.*

"A long time ago my mom use to tell me when I was upset, that I should look to the sunset. She would tell me those ray of light simbalized how easly something could be wonderful one moment and gone the next. She would remind me that I should take in what was good and wonderful and not hate that something like a sunset had to come to an end. Because even if its gone today it will be back tomarrow, and the day after. Even if the colors arnt the same, and the pattern in the sky is differnt. It will still be there and the new pattern and color with have its own reason for being wonderful."

*A small smile forms on Misty's lips as she remembers her mothers words when she was young. Her mom was so smart and she had never tired of hearing her talk and her ideas on things, and life.*

"Don't let the sun go down on your anger Kyle, because you never know when there just might not be a tomarrow. Even if you don't agree with what they said. They love you in there, and they only want to protect you. You can't be upset with them for that right?"

*Pulling away from Kyle a little Misty smiles up at him and runs a hand through his hair.*

*As Rick checks over Jess she holds herself stiff. Her eyes only moved every once and a while from the wall to Carson as if making sure he was still close by.

Rick seemed from what Jess could tell kind and gentil. Taking great care in how he handled her. Finally Jess lets herself relax just alittle bit as the atmisphere becomes a little more friendly.

Just snaps her head to Wyatt fast as he starts to talk about pressing charges. Did she really want to do that now?*

"I...I'm not so sure I should press charges anymore. I mean....Peter might get more upset with me and just some of his other goons after me or something...and...maybe its just better off if...if I just let things go."

*Jamie gives a little shake of her head as she pushes herself off the counter and sits down in one of the chairs. Folding her hands in front of her she looks at Jess. Her face kind and soft.*

"Jess, you dont have to press charges but I think its in your best intrest if you do. This wont stop on its own. This guy knows he can out power you now, and if he comes back its just going to happen over and over again. Who knows if one of these times he kills you. I know you don't want that and we certinly dont want that eather."

*Jamie lets out a sigh and she looks up at Wyatt and than back to Jess. She felt so bad for her, and she felt so despret to not let this happen again to her.*

"If you do press charges we have some of the finest body guards here who will look out for you for a while, and we also have a wonderful Lawyer who will help put this guy behind bars and if any of his guys come after you she will put them there too. You don't have anything to fear. We are here to help and will make sure you looked after."

*Jess searches Jamie's eyes for a moment and finds the sensarity she is looking for. Knowing Jamie was telling the truth. Though she was a bit puzzled why would someone go to all this trouble. Law informent or not, Jess never met anyone who would even life a finger to help her before. Seeing Carson's nod she feels a bit reasured.*

"O....ok. I want to than."

*Jamie gives a small nod and than nods to Wyatt letting him know that he should get the paperwork and what not together.*

*At Ricks last statment Jess becomes a little uncomfortable. She dident like the feeling, and thinking about it made her sick. She felt embarssed and just plane low. Looking to Jamie Jess eyes portray what she is feeling about the situation.*

*Jamie gives an understanding nod to Jess and a soft smile once again.*

"If you feel more comfortable just talking to me you can and than I can relay it to them. Or we have a female Dr. you can talk to as well. Its whatever make you more comfortable."

*Jess looks down at her hands for a moment not saying much of anything before looking up again.*

"I'd like to just talk to you."

*Jamie stands.*

"Ok thats not a problem."

*Once the three guys leave the room Jamie brings her chair a little but closer to Jess to listen to what she has to say.*

~*~About 15-20 minutes later~*~

*Moment pass and finally Jamie exits the infermary for where the three men were waiting outside. She has a look of her own pain on her face. She felt bad for Jess and wish she could help more. But the only thing she could do was help but this guy away that would do this to her. Walking over to them Jamie lets out a sigh.*

"Well..It seems not only did this guy hurt her pysicaly he did emotionaly as well, and to add icing to the cake he took advantage of her too. From why Jess said thats why the whole thing started. She dident want anything to do with him anymore, and well....he dident like that. "

*Jamie runs a weary hand over her face letting out a tired sigh. What a case this was. Many emotions were involved on this on for more than one reason.*

"You going to want to probley check her over, and get what you can to Angelica. I'm not sure all she needs your going to want to have to talk to her about this, but I gave that woman my word in there that this guy would be put behind bars for a long time. We can all go back in now, she's given her ok. Just move slowly, I'm not a Dr. but it seems like she is still in shock and pretty skidish. Which is understand able."

*Jamie turns her attachen to Carson for a moment.*

"I don't know how long you can stay today away from work, but if you can stay for a while longer I think it would be good. Jess needs someone she knows and can trust right about now more than anything. She needs to feel sacure, and protected. Along with the physical pain she is going through alot of mentil pain as well, and thats not something easly cured like a cut or a scrap. That takes much longer. Specialy when its not all that grand to start with. I'd say that girl in there had it pretty hard to begin with, and than this added to it...shesh."

Disagreement

Rick can see the fear in Jess' eyes and knows to take things slowly. It had been a while since they'd brought in anyone like this, but he knew well enough that it wasn't her fault, and she needed understanding more than anything else. "Nice to meet you, Jess." His voice is warm and calming. "If you want to just come on in here and sit down on that table over there, we can just take a quick glance at ya."

He offers her a smile. "Looks like someone did a good job of giving you some attention already though."

He waits for her to sit down inside the infirmary, and forces himself to ignore the conflicting feelings that rose inside of him, about having Carson there. He knew nothing whatsoever about this case.

Taking a few supplies, Rick slowly makes sure Jess' cuts are clean, careful not to scare her with sudden moves, and aware enough not to do anything that might make her feel uncomfortable.

Wyatt stands nearby, taking mental notes. "I know this is hard for you, Jess...but we all know it's best if you press charges against the guy who did this. And if you do, which we'll help you with, we need Rick here to have written statements about your condition."

Rick smiles again, taping a small bandage over a wound on Jess' arm. "I just need you to tell me now if you're hurt anywhere else that I can't see."

Carson gives her a little nod, telling her it's okay.


Kyle stuffs a bite of burger into his mouth and grins, shrugging slightly, a twinkle of amusement in his eye.

Chatter and laughter filters through Mike’s house as everyone eats. The group had spent so much time together, it was always more like family than friends.

As the meal draws to a close and all that’s left are drinks and a few potato chips, the real reason for the get together finally has to come.

The table is quiet for several moments until Phil speaks up. “Kyle…Mike, Jason and I have talked a bit and…we feel that with everything that’s happened…we should cancel this weekend’s concert.”

Kyle’s eyebrows shoot up as his heart sinks. Never had JetStream backed out of a commitment in the past. He furrows his brow and shakes his head. He holds up his good hand and waves his fingers, showing that he could still play the keyboard, even if it wasn’t as much.

Phil purses his lips. “Look, we know you can still play a bit, but come on…you need to give yourself a break. You can’t sing…you can’t give it your all…and you’re an important part of the band. We just don’t feel it’s right.”

Kyle can feel his defenses rising, and tries to control himself. He tenses, gritting his teeth.

Jason intervenes. “It’s not just that either… with the Agency after you for some reason, we can’t just let that go. We’re going to have to figure this out before we can move on. It’s been suggested that…we clear the calendar completely until we know everyone is safe.”

Kyle can’t believe he’s hearing those words. Clear the calendar? That meant canceling anything they had on schedule and turning down any new gigs. How could they be suggesting this? And they’d been talking without him? That much was apparent.

He looks from Jason to Mike, to his brother, then to his sister, grasping for help here. But the look on Jen’s face says that she’s been in on those discussions too.

Sitting back in his chair, Kyle is just quiet for several moments. Finally he shakes his head again. Silent words mixed with signs, gestures and whatever else to get his point across, he manages, “I don’t like it. I can still play enough to get by, and we made commitments here. As far as the Agency goes, we have people like Katie watching us.”

Phil sighs deeply. “We know all that, Kyle. But maybe we need to start using our heads on this one. We’re not blaming you for anything it’s just…we think this is best.”

“We need to figure out the whys to all of this,” Jason adds. “Without understanding what’s happening, we’re not going to be able to make it stop.”

Kyle’s stomach lurches. He knew why this was happening, and it was stupid no one else had figured it out yet. He opens his mouth to signal he wants to say something, but the discussion continues around him.

Mike nods. “I hate canceling anything, but I agree that it’s the best choice.”

Again Kyle tries to interrupt but isn’t noticed.

“Besides, without the backup vocals, our sound isn’t as strong anyway,” Phil agrees. “We don’t want to disappoint the audience.”

Kyle raises his hand but once more no one notices since he can’t just interrupt with speech.

Jason nods. “Not to mention our script. We’d have to change everything around and to do that before this weekend would be hard.”

Kyle leans forward trying to catch someone’s eye, growing frustrated that no one was noticing his attempts to interrupt.

Phil shakes his head. “I know some people will be disappointed, but we have to think about us and what’s happening.”

“Agreed.” Mike nods.

“Agreed.” Jason puts in his vote.

Jen nods as well. “I think…”

Kyle’s palm suddenly slams down onto the table hard enough to make plates and glasses rattle. “Do I not count all of a sudden or what?!” His forced raise voice feels as though it’s tearing out the inside of his throat, but he ignores it, his hoarse shouting coming out as a painful sounding rasp. “We can’t do this!”

“Kyle!” Jen looks with disappointment and reprimand at her brother. “Take it easy, and for goodness sake, save your voice.”

“Why should I?” A rare anger blazes in Kyle’s eyes. “You’re not going to let me sing anyway!”

“Just calm down, Kyle,” Phil chides. He was a little embarrassed by his brother’s outburst and tries to settle things down. “Quit acting as though we’re doing this to you on purpose.”

“Aren’t you?” Kyle winces as his own force against his vocal cords brings severe pain, but he keeps going anyway. “You all met behind my back,” he whispers. “You all made up your minds without even talking to me about it.”

“Come on, Kyle,” Jason urges. “You know we weren’t leaving you out on purpose. You have to admit that holding off on things for a while makes sense. At least until we can figure out this Agency stuff.”

Kyle shakes his head. “What is there to figure out? They’re after me. Big whoop. They haven’t taken me down yet.”

“No, but they will,” Jason shoots back. “And until we find out why it is they’re after you all of a sudden, we can’t stop them. So far no one’s gotten killed. Let’s keep it that way.”

Kyle’s jaw sets stubbornly. “We’re playing this weekend.”

Jen’s shoulders drop. Why was her brother taking this so personally? “Please…just let this one go. For your own sake.”

“My own sake?!” Kyle stands up from the table, almost knocking over his chair. He was confused, hurt and frustrated. He knew the answer to the Agency questions, and he had planned on performing despite his injuries. “Well thanks for nothing.” Though hoarse, his sarcasm is evident. “Let’s just all let the Agency win this one so they’re happy too.” Spinning on his heel, he stalks to the door where he goes out onto the porch, letting the screen door fall shut behind him with a bang.

The table is silent. The eyes of the band are down, no one knowing what to say. No one had thought Kyle would buck this, and none of them had seen him this upset in a long time. It just wasn’t like him to get so riled.

Kyle leans his hand on the porch railing, watching the sun set. The evening air was chilly, cooling him down. He knew he shouldn’t have lost his temper….he hated it when he did. It was just…so…frustrating. Swallowing, he realizes just what he might have done to himself with his shouting, but what was done was done, now. He should have just let this whole thing go…he should have just relented and left his pride behind.