Time for bed

*Charlotte can't help but let out a sigh and than chuckle as she thinks about Bret coming and the looks on everyones face as he took her away.*

"I have no idea why they put me on nights eather. Sooner or later they will see that they are losing money and not gaining it and I wont have to worry about night. Oh and if I get fired it would be a good way to go."

*Taking a bite of her cheese Charlotte pauses for a moment, just listing to Bret. Enjoying her meager meal and just listing to the sound of his sweet voice.*

"Don't you try and flatter me, it won't make me forget you owe me that beer still.."

*Katie can't help the smile she feeling inside as she receves Jason's thanks though on the outside her face remained ferm. This new talking through emotions with Jason felt good. It was something they had that no one alse did. In a way Katie found it pretty cool. Well I couldn't have done it without you, so thank you as well J.*

*The time moves on and Nate heads back with Wyatt ready to put in his statment as well. Katie and Misty stay behind. Misty to watch over Kyle and help, and Katie to help as well while keeping an eye on things.

The time moves on more and the minutes pass. Time seems to go slow yet is pass in a flash. New people join them and the laughing and greetings continue.*

*Giving a elbow to Kyle as she pass Katie jokes.*

"Kyle, trouble? NEVER!!"

*Katie can't help but throw a wink at Jason and laugh as she continues to gather things up.*

*Misty leans into Kyle as Logan talks. She couldn't help the color that came to her cheeks.*

"Looks like I am already taken. Sorry Logan."

*The chatter and fun continues as the mention of food comes up. Misty laughs not saprised that Kyle was thinking of food. Even being tired and sick thats what he mind liked the most.

At the mention of Mom and Pop's Misty stiffens for a moment. Did she really want to go? Did she really want to face Carson again? She had seen him the other day and she had forgiven him, but did she willing want to see him?

Misty sighs and looks to Kyle searching his face. The look in his eye was asking her the same question. Thinking things over fast in her mind Misty gives Kyle a soft smile and a nod.*

"Yes, I would like to go for a little while with you. Someone does have to tell you when its time for bed since you can't do it on your own you know. You need your rest Kyle, so we can't be out to late."

*Misty gives a squeeze to Kyle's hand showing she cared and was worryed about him even though she new he was a grown man she was still his Dr. on top of being his girlfriend and his health came first.

Misty's mind wonders but lands on one thought alone. She couldn't live in fear and stay away from Mom and Pop's forever. If Carson was there, than he was there. She couldent let his presence keep her away. She had to lean to function around him again.*

*Katie is about to reply to Jason when Scott comes up behind her. Leaning back into him for a moment Katie smiles and turns her head to kiss his cheek.*

"You'll see me tomarrow if these rougheins don't keep me out to late."

*Katie can't help but laugh giving Scott's hand a pat and turning to hug him.*

"Let Domino know I said "Hi!' and that this weekend is still on before it gets to cold. I'll see you tomarrow babe."

*Once Scott is gone Katie lets out a sigh and grabs a few bags to throw into the cars. Remembering she hadn't answered Jason yet Katie lets out a small laugh. I'd love to. As long as I can ride with you since mine just left. As long as you don't mind.*

Introductions

Bret chuckles. "I'd love to come rescue you, but seeing as though you got several hours left, I'd probably wind up getting us both in trouble, and you out of a job."

He kicks the fridge shut and finds the bottle opener to pop open his beer and take a swig. "Never did understand why they got you on nights down there anyway. No one comes through after nine o'clock anyway."

He sighs and flops back down onto the couch, beer in hand. "Wallowing? Me? What have I got to be wallowing about? I'm talking to a lovely young woman on the phone, I've got my favorite beer in my hand, I'm sacked out on a comfortable couch...."


Jason tries to calm his own emotions down enough to read Katie, getting her message but feeling it as all garbled at first. Finally figuring it out, he starts to relax a little more. The man was down...and Katie and Con could handle the rest quite well. Good job, Hero.

He finishes out the band's song, just to go into the last one for the night.

Kyle can see bits and pieces of what's happening, and once falters on the keyboard to produce a sour note, but quickly tries to recover. He had to trust the others to take care of things. Trying to focus, he's back to playing, forcing his smile again and eying Misty.

Con tries to get a handle on the situation, but with the loud music, he sees Katie's mouth moving, but can't hear her. Hoping he's assuming right, he gives her a hand getting the guy onto his feet and half-dragging him out the back, Wyatt ensuring that no one gets too suspicious. Someone does throw him a questioning glance, and he just rolls his eyes and shakes his head, acting like he's drinking. The other person nods and rolls their eyes too before turning back to the concert.

"Oh, and here's your partner right now." The police officer outside has the other man in cuffs, and slams him up against the wall as he sees Con and Katie appear with the sniper. "Great going, guys. How bad's he hurt?"

Con scoffs. "Not bad enough. "He'll live."

The sniper curses and groans as Con and Katie drag him, but doesn't have enough energy to fight.

Several more cop cars show up with their lights flashing, one car to take the criminals downtown where Brown and Reese were waiting, and the others to be there for questioning and in case anything else happened.

It seems to move fast, and before anyone knows it, the two Agency men are being taken away, and the outside is quiet again except for the sporadic sounds of the police radios in the cruisers.

Con sets his hands on his hips and just watches for a moment, then gives a sigh. Turning to Katie, he gives her a grin, then turns to sling an arm around her shoulder, aiming them both back inside. "Well, Kat, you haven't lost your touch."

Back in the main room, the concert is just coming to an end. Phil is closing out the evening with words to the audience, and within minutes, all the people are starting to file out, the noise of chatter erupting.

The band is quick to abandon their instruments and get off the stage. Kyle goes straight for Jen, sliding into a chair next to her. Receiving her hug, he returns one, drawing back to search her eyes with worry. "You okay?"

"I'm fine." Jen nods, Kyle's hands in hers. "A little shook up, but they got the guys."

Kyle's hands are shaking and he takes a deep breath. Thank God they had taken down the two men. "Good."

Jen smiles at him, knowing he had been worried to death about her. "Now go help take everything down so we can get out of here and you can get some rest. You look like death warmed over."

Kyle slaps on a grin as he stands up. "At least I'm warmed over." Heading to the stage, he stops to see Misty, just looking at her for several seconds. If it wasn't for her, he wouldn't have been able to convince the guys to play tonight...and she'd done a very good job as well. "Thanks, Misty." His eyes are glazed and bloodshot, showing their exhaustion, but he stands tall anyway. Reaching out, he pulls her into a hug for just a moment, trying to grasp onto the things he cared about...the things that were real to prove that this was really over.

As the late evening progresses, Wyatt goes downtown to give statements, while Con sticks around to help keep an eye on things with Katie. The band is busy packing everything away, in a hurry to leave, but at the same time, so relieved that no one had been hurt, that they take their time. Soon, the band and their close friends are the only ones remaining in the room. The audience had cleared out completely, and it was up to them to lock the doors on their way out.

"Dude, where’s the party?!”

Everyone was so busy cleaning up and packing things away that no one had noticed the small group emerging from the back.

The band squints at the group, trying to figure out who they were.

“Nice red and blue lights outside…thought maybe we’d see one of you all in the back of one of them cruisers.”

A grin spreads on Phil’s face. “Rocky, you dog!”

Rocky laughs as he leads his bunch toward the front. “Yo, what up? Did we miss anything?”

“Just the whole show,” Mike teases.

Rocky steps up on the stage to give the guys hearty handshakes. “And you must be Jason.”

Jason nods, accepting the handshake. “You must be the guy who said he couldn’t make it.”

“We would have even made it sooner if he hadn't told the taxi driver the wrong place to go.” Max rolls his eyes and approaches too.

Jason chuckles. “Well, we managed.”

Rocky glances to the knee brace on Jason’s leg. “I thought it was Kyle who was the one having trouble.”

Jason rolls his eyes. “Someone told me to break a leg so I did. And Kyle is definitely the one having trouble. Or should I say, he IS the trouble.”

“Hey!” Kyle’s rebuke is forced and scratchy. “Don’t listen to a word he says!”

“Kyle! You were playing with one hand?”

Kyle looks over to Logan and grins. “As if you didn’t notice.”

“Honestly? No. Who was that sweet voice next to you though?” Logan grins at Misty as he steps up on stage.

Kyle laughs. “Misty, this is Logan – he and the others here are Cryptic. And Logan, the answer is no.”

Logan shoots him a look of innocence. “What?”

“You know what.” Kyle smirks. “She’s mine.”

“Aw, rats.” Logan grins, throwing Misty a wink, showing how he was teasing. “Thought maybe I was in luck.”

“The only thing you’re going to be in is trouble if I don’t get a hug,” Jen pipes up from the floor.

Logan whirls around and stretches out his arms. “Jen!”

Kyle shakes his head in amusement, and some quick introductions are made for those who don’t know the visitors. It’s obvious that the Mitts and Mike all know Cryptic very well and vice versa. Though they hardly had seen each other through the last few years, their time spent together in and around high school had formed their bond.

“So why on earth are you guys here?” Phil asks.

“Well that flight did get canceled,” Joel explains. “But we got another one sooner than we thought. Rocky thought about calling you back, but we figured we’d still be too late, so we just left it at that. Looks like you managed well, but what was with all the cop cars?”

“Oh, nothing much.” Phil shrugs off the whole incident, not really wanting to get into it right now.

“Try stalkers out to kill someone.”

Heads shoot up to the new voice and Rocky whirls around, slapping a hand over his heart. “Axel! You’re gonna give me a heart attack one of these days! Why do you always sneak around and then pop up out of nowhere?”

The redhead grins slyly, his hands tucked into the pockets of his gray hoodie. “Because it’s fun?”

Rocky rolls his eyes. “Now what’s this about stalkers?”

“How about asking these fellas?”

Phil bristles a little at Axel’s forwardness, and looks to Rocky, showing some question.

Rocky lifts his eyebrows. “Oh, sorry. Y’all prolly don’t know Axel here. He joined up with us about…eight months ago or so.”

Axel nods. “Heard a lot about you guys.”

“Aww…” Mike grins. “You’re the ones traveling around the country and getting albums produced.”

Taylor laughs. “It’s not all it’s cracked up to be.”

After hellos and nods are exchanged to the newest band member, the conversation reverts back as Rocky doesn’t let the subject drop. “So you guys got stalkers or what?”

Phil eyes Axel warily. “Who’d you talk to?”

Axel meets Phil’s gaze, picking up on the suspicious vibe. “Well, I didn’t go to the media.”

Rocky elbows him. “Cut it out, Grease.”

Axel takes a moment, something between humor and defiance glinting in his eyes. “I asked the cop outside. Did you think I was psychic?”

Logan laughs at him. “You do have some strange traits.”

Rocky shakes his head and looks back to Phil. “So what’s up with that? Everybody okay?”

Jason sees the hesitance on Phil’s face and steps in. “I’m in law enforcement and we had a run-in with some nuts who were out for a thrill.”

Axel looks to Jason, studying him intently. “Law enforcement, huh?”

“Yeah. I’m an officer of the Elite. It’s a branch started by the local police department in cooperation with the FBI.” He pauses, seeing the surprise on several faces, and finding it just a little fun. “Katie over there is on the team, and Scott…and Misty…and that tank, Con over there is for tonight...” He glances around, seeing that several friends had left with the police, but not knowing if Nate was still around or not. “…and a few others around here.”

Max’s eyes widen. “Well, looks like JetStream is well protected.”

Kyle grins and nudges Misty, throwing her a wink. “You’d be surprised.”

“So what are y’all doing after you get packed up here?” Rocky leans down to pick up a cord and wind it up, the other guys starting to pitch in as well, knowing this routine.

“We hadn’t made any plans.” Phil shrugs. “Might go hang out or…”

“Food,” Kyle states flatly. He might not have been that hungry himself, but he knew both these bands well, and he also played his part well. “Definitely food.”

Rocky grins. “You haven’t changed a bit. You guys still got that little Italian place?”

Mike’s head perks up. “Mom and Pop's? Yeah, it’s our favorite spot. It’s still early enough…they might whip us up some pizzas.”

“Now that sounds mighty good.”

“It can be a welcome home Cryptic party,” Jen suggests, smiling.

Kyle makes a quick glance in Misty’s direction, not wanting there to be any bad feelings, but also knowing that they couldn’t just avoid Mom and Pop's because Carson might be there. He might not be working either. They might not even see him, and it was not a good reason not to go.

Kyle himself was completely exhausted though, and didn't know which option to take. He was still running on adrenaline...maybe just a few minutes would be okay, then he could leave the party early. He looks to Misty, giving her a crooked grin and a couple signs. "Want to go?"


Jason picks up his guitar case and sets it with the others, letting his eyes roam to Katie. Join us?

"Hey, Katie..." Scott walks up behind her, putting a hand on her shoulder. "I'm gonna head out. I got an early start in the morning, and I promised Domino some daddy time tonight." He leans around to plant a kiss on her cheek. "See you tomorrow?"

Wallow

*Charlotte takes a bite of cheese and gives a small laugh.*

"Sounds like a blast to me. Maybe you should be spontanious, do something unexspected. Come resue a damsel at work for a nice ride."

*Charlotte cant help but laugh again. The nights wernt busy around the caves now that the weather was a little bit colder, so most of the time was standing doing nothing. Charlotte always liked the breaks at night though talking to Bret was a nice break in the dull ruteen.*

"You better now be wallowing Mr."

*Katie draws closer to the man she took down. Seeing she got him in the shoulder she raches down taking the riffle. Replying to Jason, while keeping her gun on the enimy still. I got him, he's down J. Con and I are going to take him out to the cops. Reaching the man the same time as Con Katie looks at him and than scans the arena fast.*

"Con, help me here. sling his arm over your shoulder, make it look like we are just helping someone drunk out."

*Katie reaches down and slings the mans on arm over her shoulder. Keeping her mind and thoughts open to Jason so he new what was going on. Also Katie keeps the mans one hand locked with her own as to make sure he dosent try anything.*

Sniper

Bret scoffs. “Me? I’m up to skipping supper and watching some dumb show on television.” He gets up from the couch to walk with his cell phone to his ear. “And…heading to the fridge for a nice cold beer. Then I’ll probably get tired of watching something I don’t want to anyway and I’ll go crawling upstairs to bed until the morning when I’ll get up and stare at the newspapers for hours looking for someone who would hire a guy like me so I can stay occupied without so much dang down time on my hands.”

He pauses at the fridge, a grin on his face. “How’s that?”


Everything happens so fast. The band plays…the noise continues…the music…the singing… But for an instant, Jason hears nothing. His eyes are focused on the crowd, yet he sees the back where the shot is fired. He hears Katie’s feelings to decipher their meanings. Suddenly, he’s drawn back into the sounds. He looks around wildly, trying to remain in control onstage, but is desperate to take down the intruders. Katie…what happened…is he down? Did anyone see you?

The other guys on stage muster up all they have not to stop playing…not to get offstage and help and see what had happened. They had to keep going…had to keep the crowd focused on them.

The sniper goes down, thrown into the corner with the force from the bullet, dropping his rifle with a clatter. Several people in the back turn their heads at the movement, though the sounds have been muffled from the music. Before they can see anything though, Wyatt has stepped in the way, obscuring the view and letting his body language show that everything was fine and there was nothing to look at.

The sniper’s eyes flutter open and he moans, moving a hand to his inside shoulder where blood is flowing out of the bullet wound.

Con comes in from the back, having already deposited the first thug into the custody of a police officer that had been posted outside by orders from Brown. He stops short, seeing the man down, and looks to Katie with question. “We gotta get him out of here,” he whispers hoarsely, glancing to Wyatt’s back. “Before these folks see him.”

Taken down

*Charlotte finds Bret's phone conversation a bit odd but only hearing one sit she decieds to ignore it for now. Though Bret can't see her Charlotte smiles anyways. She often did that at the sound of his voice..*

"Oh just on lunch break. I have the late shift tonight, won't be out of here till about 1 or 2. What are you up too?"

*Katie's eyes scan the area as the concert starts. Listening to the misuc and doing her job was a good combanation Katie enjoyed it. Some releaf settles over her as concert starts to come to an end and nothing happend. But than...as Katie see Wyatt move and than Con, she is on high alart. Keeping her eyes on the one they were after Katie watches, losing him a few times than picking him back up only to lose him agan. Continuing to scan Katies eyes rest on the man again in horror as she is close to Jen and the look of fear cross her face. See Con on top of it Katie relaxes again just a moment and she continues to keep a look out.

Than in a sudden burst Katie receves Jason's distress emotion message. Not evening having to stop and than about it Katie turns fast aiming her gun. I got him J. with in seconds the trigger on her gun is pulled as the one being shot at falls. I'm going to see if he is injored or not. Slowly Katie starts to walk in the direction of the man down.*

Showdown

Bret cringes a little and rolls his eyes. "Yeah...yeah, everything is fine. Just...an old acquaintance. So...what are you up to?"


Scott readily agrees to ice cream, returning Katie's kiss with a grin. "You got it." Seeing her on the job, he slips away, going up front to keep Jen company while everyone else got to work, onstage and off.


Kyle doesn't argue with Misty about getting rest. Not only does he not have the energy, but he couldn't disagree. Getting back onstage, he gives her a thumbs up, knowing she'd do well with the band tonight...


Adults and kids roam, sit, stand, clap and sing along. JetStream performs as well as normal, a little different tonight, but most wouldn’t notice. Jason keeps the interaction going with the audience, holding their attention and bantering some with Phil this time instead of Kyle. Kyle himself keeps a hand on the keyboard, offering slight instrumental backup, and listening to Misty’s vocals.

Everything seems to be going well. There’s a short intermission, nothing seems out of place, and the music picks up again. People filter in and out, providing constant movement for those watching for anything suspicious.

The music continues, the band staying strong. Kyle does his best to keep up, though as the night moves on, he grows wearier and wearier. His body was resisting not only staying awake, but the stress of the evening, and several times, he has to move his feet just to keep from passing out from pure exhaustion. He stays though, determined to remain and see the night out.

Jason sings into the microphone, his palms and fingers expertly playing along his guitar. If it weren’t for the stressful situation around them, he’d be having the time of his life like always. The night was almost up though…so far so good…had they been wrong to predict the Agency?

Just as they move into a nice upbeat and loud song, Jason’s eyes catch movement near the back of the room, where someone had just come through the doors. Something about them didn’t seem right. They were ducking behind other people…moving toward the edge with hidden purpose.

Turning slightly Jason keeps cool, though quickly makes eye contact with anyone he could find. Wyatt. Con. Katie where are you…there’s someone at the back.

Wyatt catches Jason’s look, and slips casually to the side of the room, glancing around and finally spotting the guy he was sure Jason had seen. As he does, there’s more movement toward the back – a second man was there.

The song continues, filling the large room with sound, the crowd clapping and singing along. The confusion is enough that Wyatt loses his target for a moment, only to see him again, this time having made it closer to the front.

Backtracking, Wyatt hurries a little, frantically looking around for someone else. Spotting Con, he gives a low wave, pointing to the suspect.

Con offers a slight nod in return and leaves his corner post. Scanning the crowd, the man has suddenly disappeared once more. Where was he…

Jen sits in her wheelchair at the soundboard, keeping her eye on the stage and listening to all the parts that needed adjusting. Without warning, she feels a strange pinpointed pressure to the back of her neck, and she tenses. She’d never been in this position before, but she had no doubt what this was.

“Shhh.”

The whisper in her ear sent chills down her spine. She wanted to scream, but the gun barrel warned her not to. Scott was sitting right next to her, and she couldn’t even get his attention.

Suddenly a large hand envelops the one holding the gun. The thug gives a start, but a vice grip to his shoulder holds him still.

“Drop it,” a voice hisses. “Or your hand breaks.”

The hold around the man’s hand tightens, and he’s forced to lower his gun, wincing under the pressure.

“That’s better…” The larger hand takes the gun. “I wouldn’t want anyone to get hurt.”

The one caught scowls and twists his head to see who had just outsmarted him. Coming face-to-face with a chest though, he has to lift his eyes higher…higher to finally see Con’s eyes glaring down at him. He swallows hard, his face paling. “Hey man…I’s just doing my job.”

Con can’t hear what the man said, but doesn’t care. He stuffs the gun through his belt and grabs the back of the man’s collar, pulling him back to the edge of the room. “Move before I squash you like a bug,” he threatens. Turning, then pushing the man in front of him, he heads to the back where he would hold him until the police had arrived. Nice and quiet takedown, just like they’d wanted…

Eyes from the stage see what’s happening, and though doing well at continuing the performance, inside, all are tensely watching Con. Kyle keeps his hand on the keyboard, his stomach doing a flipflop as he sees his sister in such great danger, then safe again. His eyes glance toward Misty. Was that it? Was it over?

Wyatt sees Con taking the first man to the exit and breathes a sigh of relief. But…he’d seen someone else. Suddenly on guard again, he looks around, trying to see above the heads of the crowd, but can’t see anything.

Jason’s voice rings out along with the music, his hold on the crowd never wavering. He felt relief at seeing Con escort someone away, but something still felt wrong…something….he finally catches sight of Katie. Running his eyes up to the back of the room, he sees something that makes his blood run cold. A man was standing in the corner with a rifle raised. The barrel was aimed down front at the back of Jen’s head.

Katie! Behind you! They’re gonna shoot Jen!

After Tonight

*Katie smiles and gives Scott a little nudge back.*

"Nah, I think you would like that to much. I can however....give you one of these."

*Leaning over Katie gives Scott a kiss on the lips. Her own adrenilan giving a little bit more to the kiss. Pulling away Katie smiles at Scott.*

"Well I guess I better stop kissing you and pay attachen. Ice Cream afterwards?"

*Katie continues to listen to Scott but turns her attachen back to the crowd as she scans every face, every action looking for something that dident seem right.*

*Misty links her arm with Kyle's as they start to walk out. She new he was tired, She new he was hardly standing, and she new he would drive on. Leaning into Kyle a little bit as they walk she whispers.*

"After tonight your getting the rest you need, and thats an order. I dont want you even going to work."

*Misty still holds her smile on her face to let Kyle know she harped because she cared. Following the band Misty's stomach does flip flops as the excitment builds.*

*Charlotte is about to answer Bret when she hears him tell her to old on and is on the other line. Trying not to be nosey Charlotte pulls a banana from her lunch bag and takes a bite. But as Bret's voice grow so does Charlotts curosity. What was going on...

Finally when Bret gets back Charlotte questions.*

"Is everything ok Hun? Seemed like a pretty heated convo?!"

All ready

Both Bret’s landline phone and cell phone go off at the same time. One hand goes to his caller ID, the other to flip open his phone to see who’s calling.

A groan escapes his lips as he sees his caller ID, and he let’s the answering machine pick up as he goes ahead and answers his cell. “Hey, Charlotte.” He tries to sound cheery the best he can. “What’s up?”

As he talks, his answering machine starts recording. “Bret…I know you’re home…I saw your car a few minutes ago as I drove by. Still know how to take care of that baby, don’t you.”

Bret struggles to hear what Charlotte has to say, over the other voice, and he growls. “Hang on a minute, babe.”

Holding his cell phone out to one side, he leans over to his other phone and picks it up. “You call me one more time,” he hisses, “and you’ll be sorry. Drop it, Ron. The answer is no.”

He listens for a moment, his voice getting a little louder. “Look, been there done that. I’m not risking it again. No! Tell him I said no! I don’t care. Just…dang it all, Ron, shut up and leave me alone.”

Slamming the phone down, he takes a deep breath, and runs a hand over his face. Suddenly he remembers the cell phone in his hand. “Aw, Charlotte…” He sits up straighter on the couch, then leans to rest his elbows on his knees. “Sorry, um…what were you saying?”


Con and Wyatt receive Katie’s instructions, nodding and holstering their weapons. Both start to roam the room, checking doors and windows and hallways, sniffing out the corners. The band sets up and soon people are filtering in and out, noise starting to fill the room.

Once the stage is set, Jen takes her place behind the table down in front for the sound check, signaling the guys one by one to test out their instruments and mics. Kyle tries out the keyboard with one hand, doing a fair job for not being able to use his right. He directs Misty to her own mic beside him, giving her a thumbs up. Once all together, the band plays through one song, Jason leading vocals as usual, Kyle giving Misty her cues for backup.

Soon, everyone is ready, and the families are starting to filter in. The guys leave the stage for a few minutes to regroup before they're on.

Scott wanders in from the back and scans the room, finally spotting Katie. Smiling, he comes up next to her and nudges her with an elbow. "Evening ma'am. I looked in the mirror and saw a suspicious man. You won't arrest me, will you?"


Back down the hall, the band converses about several of their songs, have a prayer, then try to get ready.

Kyle leans back against the hallway wall and closes his eyes, letting out a sigh.

Phil's eyes narrow slightly. "Hey, you alright?"

Kyle throws his eyes open and pastes on a good smile. He nods. "Never better," he croaks.

Phil smirks. "Yeah, you sound like it."

Jason shakes his head. "You sure you want to be up there?"

Kyle rolls his eyes and thumbs to Misty.

"Yeah, I know you got backup so we could do this thing...but you know good and well we agreed because you were stubborn. Now are you sure you'll be alright?"

Kyle sighs and throws up his good arm. "Will you guys just shut up and leave me alone? If I wasn't fine, I wouldn't be here!" He blinks and shakes his head, slapping on a quirky grin, then moving to knock his brother upside the head.

Phil gives a dry laugh. "Alright, alright... Let's get this show on the road."

Mike, Jason and Phil head back down the hall, while Kyle stays behind a moment, throwing Misty a wink. He was running on pure adrenaline right now and had no idea how he'd make it through the night. But he would...he would.


Half an hour later, the lights were being dimmed and JetStream was walking on stage.

Ok

*Katie gives a nod to Jason receving his emotional message. She understood how he felt. She was nervouse too. She had done this before no problem, but this time with so many people being there so much more rided on not making the wrong move.

Slinnging an arm around Jason's shoulders and one around Con's she smiles as they make there way back up top.*

"We are going to be ok, everyone is going to be ok. As long as we keep our eyes sharp and stay on our toes everything is gonna be ok."

*Katie's words were strong but on the inside she was just as scaired. She old could pray God protected them and let them be ok tonight.

Once getting up top and seeing Wyatt and Nate Katie gives a wave.*

"You guys ready to rock?"

*Nate grins at Katie's enthuseasum. She always was up for a good fight even if she was scaired.

Throwing on his sunglass and his dark brown leather jacket Nate stratens.*

"Lets do this. Hotshot we are still going over everything when we get there right one last time?"

*Nate follows as the others head out the door. This was another job to him, was he nervouse maybe a little but Nate refused to let it show. Fear was a weekness and at a time like this there no room for it.*

*Misty gives a wave to Phil and the other as her and Kyle slowly start to walk to join the others. She cant help the laugh and grin that esacpe her lips at Kyle and Phil go back and forth. It was always fun watching the brother go at it. Misty cant help but laugh again as Kyle makes his way over to his keybored. Following along Misty starts to help as she looks over the music.*

*Once Jason had left the room Katie looks around at all the faces that staired back at her. Reaching into a bag she pulls out some silencers and hands them to everyone. Glancing around the room and than down at the lay out Katie starts to point.*

"Wyatt, I want you and Nate at the entrince till the consert starts. Than I want you both to fan out along the back. Con I want you on the right side of the stage keep your eyes on Jen inbetween everything asle and I will be on the left doing the same. You guys pretty much know the drill if we catch anyone. Try not to let the crowd know, call officer Brown. If you think something it to dangerouse than go with you gut."

*Charlotte glances down at her watch as she grabs her lunch bag for break. It had been a long day so far at work and she was happy to get to eat finally. Sitting down at a small picnic table Charlottle opens her bag and pulls out her food. Than pulls out her phone Charlotte dials Bret's number. That was pretty much her normal rutean when she new he would be around.*

Prep

Kyle's shoulders drop a little. He knew he needed rest. After everything his body had gone through the last couple days, and how sick he'd been not twelve hours earlier, he needed sleep. But he couldn't. Not now.

He lets his smile fade, knowing Misty could see through it anyway. "I have to go...it's me their after...I know they're going to try something tonight."

A small grin emerges, mischief forced into his eyes and he reaches out to tap a finger under Misty's chin. "You'll just have to keep me awake."

Without waiting for any further argument, he heads to the door, opening it for her to exit first.


Jason takes a deep breath, nodding. It was one thing to be on a case for TJY. It was another thing to be on a case that involved his friends. And it was different still as he wouldn't even be able to help from onstage. He had to trust the others and resolve not to be on security tonight.

"Yeah...the Agency is just so hard to predict. As much as I hate to admit it, I almost wish we had Carson there 'cause he might recognize these goons."

Con quirks an eyebrow. "Well...let's just hope they got their idiot thugs on this one. They shouldn't be all that hard to spot."

"No, I just..." Jason sighs, gathering up all his fears into one bundle and stuffing them under the surface. I just feel so helpless on this one. "I just want to make sure we don't make mistakes. Nothing could happen tonight...it might be as quiet as anything. But something in my gut tells me otherwise. I think Kyle's right."

Shaking his head, he gathers up several of the firearms. "Come on...let's get this stuff together, meet up with Nate and Wyatt upstairs, then head on over. The rest of the band will be waiting."


"Yo man, there you are!" Phil looks up from the stage as he sees Misty and Kyle approaching. "I've been trying to call you all day!"

Kyle rolls his eyes and throws his arm in the air.

Phil smirks. "Yeah, you were probably ignoring me on purpose. Don't do that to me...we thought maybe you got taken down for good or something."

Kyle quirks an eyebrow and nods to Misty as if saying, 'what do you think I got her around for.'

Phil just shakes his head. "Well get your butt on up here and help us set up then. And show Misty the music so she knows what on earth is going on. And for pete's sake stay out of trouble."

Kyle sighs a little, but his smile is there. Jogging the last couple steps he leaps up onto the stage, whirling around and shifting his weight, squinting and pointing a finger at Misty.

Jen laughs from her place on the floor. "Kyle, will you settle down? What did you have for lunch? Sugar?"

Kyle thinks for a moment, then just grins and dances over to where his keyboard needed to be set up. He waves to Misty, asking her to come up and help him.


"Alright guys..." Jason stands at the back of the room with Katie, Con, Wyatt and Nate. "I have to go set up, so....." He looks to Katie. "You're in charge. Don't forget the silencers so if we do have to fire, the audience won't be alerted right away. And be on standby to call the cops. Brown knows there might be trouble. If anyone's caught, let them come pick the goons up so you all can stick around in case there's a second wave."

"Hotshot!"

Jason turns around and looks to the stage. "Coming, coming!" He looks back at the others. "Alright. See you later."


Bret flops down on the couch and flips on the television. Tonight it was a lonely night...he'd made no plans...but didn't feel like getting out anyway. Noticing his answering machine light blinking, he listens to the message.

"Bret...you're ignoring me. You know better than that. Ten days...you know you want to...for more reasons that one. Call me. You know where I am." Click

Bret grits his teeth and immediately erases the message. No, he wouldn't be returning the call.

Advantage

*Misty gives a small wave to Kyle's grandfather and than places her own hand on top of Grans she smiles.*

"It was very nice meeting you and thank you so much for lunch. I'll try my best to keep him healthy as well."

*Misty smiles again and than gives Gran a small hug before turning and following Kyle outside.

Following Kyle's directions Misty heads back to his house continuing to keep an eye on the time. Once getting to Kyle's apartment Misty gets out of the car and follows him inside. She takes her place in the living room like normal and just waits.

Finally when Kyle reapears Misty stands. Searching his face for a moment he looked so tired.*

"Kyle, maybe we should call this off? You need your sleep and its silly to put you up there. Your way to tired, and if anything happend I would feel horrable.*

*As Katie's face turns red again as Jason's emotional comment she cant help the single emotions she throws at him with a laugh. Jerk.

Continuing to listen to Jason Katie takes everything said in. This was important they have everything covered. One wrong move and there could be a big problem.*

"Yeah we deffintly should have eyes on Jen and Kyle but I think we should show just as much attachen to the others as well. The Agency could take advantage and know that we are watching them closly and take us off guard targeting the others."

Singing?

Kyle mumbles something and blinks, squinting in the sun coming through the living room window. Feeling Misty shake him and hearing her voice, he realizes how deeply he'd fallen asleep, even if it was just for a short while.

Finally straightening up, he looks at the clock. "Oh, crap." He stands up a little too quickly and sways for a moment as he gets dizzy. Still trying to wake himself up, he looks at Misty with apology for having left her on her own. "Sorry..."

"Oh, good, you're up. I was just coming in to see when you had to leave." Gram comes into the living room, smiling. "You gonna make it?"

"Mm-hmm." Kyle stretches and yawns, giving his grandma a hug goodbye.

"You have fun tonight, alright? Tell your brother and sister hi. Oh, and Uncle Larry is coming next week with a pot of his chili, so anyone's more than welcome to come."

Kyle smiles and nods. "Thanks, Gram."

"Quit talking and get out of here before you're late," she chides, though is still smiling. She turns to Misty for a moment and takes her hand again. "It was so very nice to meet you. You must come again sometime. And watch this boy to make sure he takes care of himself, will you?"

Kyle rolls his eyes and shakes his head, though keeps his grin on the way to the door, waving his farewell.

Once in Misty's car, Kyle leans his head back and closes his eyes again. He knew he was just feeling the effects from being so sick, and he knew his body was telling him that he needed to sleep, but he couldn't. He had to be there tonight. It was too important, and his presence would be the drawing factor if anything was going to go down.

As they pull out of the driveway, Kyle straightens up again and points Misty in the right direction to get them out of this corner of town. His eyes are bloodshot and he struggles not to fall asleep again right here. "Swing by my place," he directs hoarsely. "I need to change, and grab a few things."

Back at his and Phil's apartment, he lets Misty in with him, and heads down the hall to his room. Trying to shake off his sleepiness, he sheds his church clothes to throw on an older pair of jeans, his black t-shirt and his tennis shoes. Running just a bit of gel through his hair, he preps for the show. His hand throbbing from all the moving around today, he opts to wear his sling and is finally ready again.

On the way back to the living room, he stops by the bathroom to swallow a couple pain killers and grab some coughdrops.

Ready, he holds out his arm, throwing on another quirky smile. He knew his eyes would prove to Misty that he wasn't feeling well, but he was going to smile...he was going to make it through tonight. "You ready or what? What's taking you all day?"


Both Con and Jason raise their eyebrows as they hear Katie singing, coming down the hall. Con looks at Jason with question if he was hearing things right, and if he was, as to why on earth she was singing about him, but all Jason can do is shrug lamely.

As Katie pops around the corner, Jason has a hard time not laughing. Thought I was alone, didn't you? That'll teach ya.

Con grins and shakes his head. "Hi to you too, Kat. I'd think you were warming up your voice for tonight, if I didn't know Misty was singing, not you."

Jason rolls his eyes and finally laughs. Trying to get down to business, he nods at Katie. "Yeah, I got a layout of the building and everything. I figure we just put our guys around the main room, we should be okay. I got that printout in my truck to bring with us... Once we meet the guys over there we can have a powow about how things are going to go down. I'll want eyes especially on Kyle and on Jen."

Name-o

*Misty laughs and enjoys the meal, keeping up with the conversation and cracking jokes along with Kyle. It felt nice to converse with them. Misty hadn't seen her own grandparents in so long that it felt nice to see someone alses.

Once the meal is over and Gram starts to clear the table , Misty gets up as well. Taking some of the plates to the sink to help Gram out Misty returns to the table to gather the rest of the dishes. Her eyes go to the way where Kyle disapears Misty smiles replying to Gram.*

"He sure is, he sure is."

*Giving a shake of her head Misty continues to clear the table. The truth was Misty did think Kyle was special. He had helped her out, and had comforted her alot over the last weeks. Misty hadent exspected this at all and the feelings they had grown, and continued to grow and she liked it. Kyle was so differnt, and so full of life, Misty found it nice and refreshing.

As Misty slowly follows Gram into the living room she smiles seeing Kyle asleep. He looks at peace and thats what mattered. Glancing down at her watch Misty notes the time and decieds to let him sleep for a little bit. Misty found it a bit funny, she had alot less sleep than Kyle yet he was the one sleeping. Shaking her head Misty pulls a small medicle book from her purse and starts reading it.*


~*~About an hour later~*~

"Kyle...its time to wake up...Kyle...we have the consert in an hour..come on get up."

*Misty gently shakes Kyle trying to roust him. It was a little have three and they had to meet the other at 4.*

*Katie makes her way down the steps to the basment of TJY where she new Jason would be. Coming down the hall Katie's voice can be hurd.*

"J...A...S...O..*claps* J...A...S...O..*claps* J...A...S...O *claps* and Jason was his name-o."

*Katie jumps into the room and than stops seening Con standing next to Jason. Her face grows a soft shade of red as she raises her hand and gives a wave.*

"Hello Big Brother. How ya doin?"

*Coming over to both of the guys Katie clears the throat and trys to compose herself. Looking two both the men. A small grin surfices on Katie face.*

"Very nice. Ok..so do you have a lay out of this place J?"

Preparations

Kyle just grins as Misty drives, not giving her any hits, but directing her to the far corner of town to a little residential area. Making several turns that seem to take them everywhere but nowhere, finally Kyle points to a little yellow house. It's a one-story house with a well-kept yard and flowers out front.

Kyle directs Misty to park in the driveway, and he gets out, waiting for Misty to follow. Taking her hand again, he leads her up to the small porch and opens the screen door, knocking loudly on the inside door. He throws Misty another sidelong glance with a wink, remaining silent.

Finally footsteps are heard, and a thin, elderly woman opens the door cautiously. Peeking around the corner, she sees Kyle and her face lights up. Swinging the door open wider, she smiles. "Kyle Hayden, you know good and well you don't have to knock!"

Kyle's grin spreads as he receives an enthusiastic hug. "Hey, Gram."

She steps back and looks at him sternly. "Your brother told me about that voice of yours. You should be eating a hot bowl of soup then going to bed."

Kyle shakes his head, his eyes twinkling with laughter. He then brings Misty closer. "Gram, this is Misty Miller."

The woman's face stays just as warm as she takes Misty's hand in her own. "I'm so glad to finally meet you, Misty. My name's Ellie, but since I'm Kyle's grandma you can just call me Gram like everyone else does." She chuckles and looks between the two. "Have you had lunch after church?"

Kyle shakes his head.

Gram smirks. "Well for pity sake come on in here. I was just getting your grandfather some lunch. Of course, it's just leftover fried chicken from last night."

Kyle steps into the house behind her, bringing Misty with him. He looks over at her and raises his eyebrows, signaling that he knew good and well that's what would be here, and it was well worth the drive.

Getting to the small kitchen, they're greeted again by Kyle's grandfather, who stands up from the table. "Well hi there, Kyle. What brings you around here?"

Kyle shrugs and grins, glancing toward Gram who was getting the food ready.

Gramps laughs and shakes his head. "Always food. And who do we have here with you?"

Kyle's smile widens as he presents Misty. "Gramps, Misty, Misty, Gramps."

Gramps offers a strong handshake, despite his elderly frame. "It's certainly nice to meet you, Misty. Come on here and make yourself at home. Us two lonely folks enjoy a bit of company once in a while." He looks over to Kyle with a teasing wink. "Some people don't come often enough."

Kyle sighs and nods. "I know, I know."

Gram turns around and sets down a plate of hot fried chicken. "Well set yourselves down now. Kyle, what do you want to drink? We have water...iced tea..."

After a prayer for the meal, lunch is kept lively with chatter from the two older people, Kyle intervening with a few words, though mostly gestures and facial expressions that make both his grandparents laugh, and he includes Misty as much as possible. He eats a little bit, knowing that he really didn't feel like it...food really wasn't the reason he came, but he wasn't going to disappoint his grandmother.

As the meal is finished up and the last of the chicken is gone, Gram gets up and starts clearing the table. "Oh, Kyle, since you're here..."

Kyle looks to Misty, a grin twitching his mouth, showing he knew what was coming.

"...there's that lightbulb in the hall that Gramps and I can't reach...you wouldn't mind changing that, would you?"

Kyle finishes his iced tea, ensuring he didn't show how much swallowing hurt right now. Standing up, he knows where to go, heading to a nearby cupboard where the lightbulbs were kept. Drawing a new one out, he twirls it in his hand and slides out of the kitchen with style, again bringing laughter to his grandmother.

Gram shakes her head and starts to clear the dishes. "That boy..." She grins at Misty. "He's something else, isn't he."

Kyle easily switches out the lightbulb, knowing full well that his job was not done. His grandparents could still survive on their own, but there were little things that they just couldn't do anymore. Except for the lightbulb, neither asked Kyle directly to do anything...they didn't want to take advantage of him being there. But a hint was all Kyle needed to step in.

For the next hour it was smoke alarm batteries, squeaky door hinges, a leaky bathroom sink, a shower curtain rod that had fallen down, a stain on the hallway rug, a chest of drawers that needed to be moved, and a tv remote that needed reprogramming.

Not once did Kyle let either of his grandparents see how worn out he was, or even admit to them how sick he'd been just hours before. There were other reasons he'd come today that he wasn't willing to sacrifice.

Finished with the last task though, he sinks down into a living room chair. He's a bit sweaty, his shirt sleeves rolled up, his face a little flushed. His eyes hold almost a glazed look, the exhaustion just too much.

"Kyle, I was just talking with your grandfather, and we'd..." Gram's words trail off as she enters the living room and sees her grandson in the chair.

Kyle's head has shifted down to is own shoulder, his steady breathing showing that he'd just drifted off to sleep, despite his efforts to stay awake.

Gram gets a gentle smile on her lips, and lets her statement go.

"Doesn't he have a thing with the band tonight?" Gramps asks.

"Oh, let him sleep," Gram chides. "That family event isn't until later."

Neither mind a bit that Misty is there, acccepting her as any family member, offering her to make herself at home. By two-thirty, the house is quiet. Gramps had fallen asleep in the den. Gram was reading a book on the screened-in back porch.

Kyle wakes himself up coughing once, but is too groggy to move. Though he was getting a crick in his neck, he didn't even bother shifting positions. Squinting lamely at the clock on the wall, he notes the time, and reminds himself that he can't stay here much longer. But...he was...so...tired...


"Come on, Kyle, where are you?" Phil hangs up his phone for the fifth time, rolling his eyes.

"Still get his voicemail?" Mike asks.

"Yeah." Phil sighs. "I called TJY, Rick said he hadn't seen hide nor hair of Kyle or Misty... I saw them take off from church earlier and figured they'd go out to eat, but they should have been back by now."

Jen thinks for a moment, the three of them in Mike's living room before preparing to leave later that afternoon. "Think he went to Gramp's and Gram's?"

"I wouldn't think so...not with the event tonight and how they can keep someone around for hours." Phil grins, remembering the last time they all had been there. "Besides, if he wasn't feeling the greatest, I doubt he would have gone."

"Well, you said he didn't need to help load up," Jen reminds. "He just needs to meet us there at four."

"I guess. What do you think about him and Misty?"

Jen quirks an eyebrow at her brother. "Is it my business to think anything?"

Phil shrugs. "I was just wondering."

"Why? Something wrong?"

"No..." Phil leans back in the couch, tapping his foot on the floor. "I just...I don't now. I guess it just surprised me was all."

"What, that Kyle could like a girl?"

"Maybe...I mean, he's been around a lot of girls, just never...serioius, I guess."

"Well, do you think he's all that serious about Misty?"

Phil laughs. "Have you looked at him lately? Try teasing him. But be read to get your head bit off."

Jen giggles. "So what's wrong with that? Misty's a great woman...I like her...she's a nice friend."

"Oh, I like her too. I just hope..."

Jen sighs. "Just spit it out, Phil."

"I just hope he's not headed for heartache, that's all."

"Why would he be?"

"I don't know. Forget I said anything." Phil stands up and looks to Mike. "Ready to start packing up?"

"You bet."


"So we've got these here..." Jason gestures to the gun case. "I told Katie what I'd be organizing...Wyatt seemed okay with it...I think Nate will be too."

Con scans the weapons, one eyebrow raised. "When did these come in?"

"Elite issued."

"I see." Con glances around he downstairs room, feeling just a little bit odd. It had been a long time since he'd been down here, let alone been involved in any kind of case or security at all. "Reese care that I was helping out?"

Jason throws him a smirk. "Why should he? You got two good eyes. That's all we need."

"I suppose." Con reaches down to pick up a firearm. For a brief moment, he gets a flashback of the last man he'd killed out of anger, and he inwardly cringes. "So what kind of gig is this tonight anyway?" Hearing nothing, he turns with question to Jason.

Jason had already answered him. "I said it's a family night."

"Oh."

Jason cocks his head. "Hows that ear doing?"

Con shrugs. "Doesn't give me any trouble other than not working."

It was meant to be a silly remark, but Jason doesn't laugh. "You miss being around here?"

"Yeah." Con's response is quick, as he doesn't even have to think about it.

"You know Reese would love to have you back."

"At what? A desk?" Con shakes his head. "Why do you think I got a job with a construcion company? So I could be out doing something. I don't know...would be nice to work around Jamie again though."

Jason lets the subject drop, seeing that his friend was a bit bothered by it all. "Alright, anyway, so now I'm just waiting for Katie to get here to kinda straighten things out with her and then we're off."

Con lifts an eyebrow. "How are you two getting along?"

"Good." Jason nods. "Real good. We're um...well, we're real good friends, Con."

"You two happy with that?"

Jason thinks for a moment, then nods again. "Yeah. She and Scott are doing well, and I like it that she and I can be friends again."

"Straighten out your differences?"

"I think so... it's a little hard sometimes since we can read each other so well, but...yeah...she's a good friend, and I trust her."

Con studies Jason for a moment.

Jason lifts an eyebrow. "What?"

"Just friends?"

Jason throws him a look. "Con...the past is over. Yes...Katie and I are just friends. And I like it that way. Do any more ridiculous hinting and I'll start teasing you about wearing a ball and chain."

"Hey now..." Con defends. "I'd hardly describe Jamie that way."

Jason grins. "Neither would I. Nervous?"

"Like you wouldn't believe."

Jason laughs and shakes his head. "Good. Keeps you on your toes."

Your Family

*Once getting to the church and Kyle takes Misty's hand she feels a bit more at ease. It had been a long time since she had stepped foot into a church and she couldn't help but be a little nervouse.

Entering Misty smiles and greet people as they come up to Kyle and herself. Trying her best not to let her nervouseness show.

Taking Kyle's hand again Misty follows him though the church and the soft music his her ears as they find there seat. Seeing Mick and Phil up on the stage Misty's smile grows a little. Leaning over to Kyle she whispers.*

"Well at least they are getting warmed up for tonight."

*Turning her attachen back to the front Misty trys her best to sing along with the songs though she dosent know many of the words she does the best she can.

Keeping her attachen to the front Misty listens. As the service draws on and she listens to the preacher Misty understands what he is say, she had hurd it before, but this time rehearing it seemed to help her understand a little bit more.As the serman comes to an end and the voice rings out Misty looks twords were it was coming from another smile spreading across her face.*

"Your sister voice is amazing. Your whole family is talinted Kyle."

*Misty listens to the song and it send a ping to her heart. It was differnt, and it felt good, it was almost like a blanket on a cold day.

Once exiting the church and following Kyle's direction Misty's mind wonders. Where were they going? If she was to guess it would be normaly Mom and Pop's but this wasent the way there, this was a way she never went before. *

"Where are you taking me Kyle Mitts? I would say your kidnapping me, but I'm the one driving."

*Misty smiles sweetly as she looks at Kyle and than draws her attachen back to the road following Kyle's directions.*

Church

Kyle grins, a little bit of color coming to his cheeks. He eyes Misty, his gaze telling her quite clearly that he could say the same thing about her. Planting a kiss on her forehead, he brings her into a hug before pulling away.

Going back to his backpack, he pulls out his truck keys, but then hesitates. He really didn’t feel like driving, nor did he think he should this morning with the shape he was in.

Looking to Misty, then back at his keys, he puts them back in his bag, signaling that he was going to let her do the driving.

They’re out of TJY later than planned, and as Kyle directs Misty to his church, he figures they will get there just as the service is starting. It was alright with him though…getting there a little later would help him avoid too many questions about why his hand was bandaged in a brace. He’d opted not to use his sling this morning, but there were enough people that knew him well, that he’d still get plenty of unwanted attention if given the opportunity.

Arriving at the church, the parking lot is full of cars, and it takes a few minutes to find a space. Getting out, Kyle takes Misty’s hand to walk her inside, knowing that she might not feel the most comfortable, but not making a big deal out of it either.

Once inside, they’re greeted with enthusiasm by a couple other people. Kyle does his best with introductions, though most know about his voice and do most of the talking, welcoming Misty with smiles and warm handshakes.

Music filters out of the sanctuary, and Kyle leads the way across the foyer into the larger room. Slipping in through the doors in the back, he scans for a place for him and Misty to sit. The worship time has already begun.

The Lord reigns on high,
Forever and ever.
His kingdom shall reign,
Over all the earth.
The Lord shall return,
To save all His children.
His kingdom shall reign,
Over all the earth.

Singing filled the room, echoing off the walls. Everyone was on their feet as the praises were sung.

Kyle’s hand still in Misty’s, he leads the way closer to the front over to one side where there are several empty seats. Sliding in, he brings Misty with him. The man standing next to them smiles and shakes both their hands, greeting them as the service moves on around them.

The worship team leads the songs, backed up by several guitars, a keyboard and drums. Mike is positioned behind the set this morning, and Phil is part of this week’s team too, playing the bass as normal. His own eyes roam the room, and catching sight of his brother and Misty, a smile forms, his worry dispersing. Normally Kyle would be up there with them, but the team leaders already knew he’d be out for a while.

Thank you, Father,
Thank you, Jesus,
You lift me up on high.
Thank you Father,
Thank you, Jesus,
I want to be your child.
Your glory shines through all the earth,
Throughout eternity.

Seated in the sanctuary, one could count about a hundred and fifty people gathered this morning. The quietness while listening to the sermon was a contrast to the enthusiastic singing, though all eyes were focused ahead to the pastor.

Kyle does his best to make Misty as comfortable as possible, the atmosphere here casual and warm...

“…so this father has a choice.” The pastor continues his story. “He sees his little boy, and he sees this crowd of people that are going to die. He can run and save his boy from death, or, he can allow his son to die, and save the larger number. What would you do?”

The pastor shakes his head slowly. “Most of you know I’ve got three children of my own. Caleb is only five, Timmy is seven and Hannah just started third grade. Now you tell me if I’d give one of them up to save a bunch of strangers who didn’t even deserve to live in the first place. Not only that, but had actually ridiculed me personally.”

He purses his lips in thought, silence reigning the room for several seconds. “I’m just glad I never had to make that choice. But God did. He had a son just like me. Only this was his only son…his one and only, beloved, Jesus. It was bad enough that the plan was to send Jesus out of Heaven to live on earth as a man, but then to watch him die…. Watch him be beaten…spit on…put on that cross and have those nails driven right through his hands and feet. And why?”

The passion shows through the pastor’s voice as gestures accompany his words, his eyes reflecting how heavy this was on his heart…his burden to share this truth. “Why did he let his son die like that? Because of you. That’s right…you. You, you, you…” He points to random people. “And why? Because his love is so great…so awesome…so powerful…that he so badly wanted a way for sin to be destroyed. God wanted you to be a part of His family, and in order to do that, innocent blood had to be spilled. So it was his perfect Son. That Son that not only died and suffered a brutal death…but rose again three days later, fulfilling the prophecy and bringing about the entire circle that would form a way for us to meet God.”

A smile spreads. “You can’t get much more awesome than that. God’s love…do you know it? Have you tasted it? Have you found that very hope within you that can only be driven by the very power of God’s love itself?”

As the sermon draws to an end, the pastor exits the stage, soft music beginning to play. After a short intro, a sweet female voice rings out. Only those looking for the singer would have seen the young woman in the wheelchair back in the corner out of the spotlight.

I would have been a wayward soul,
Lost in the open sea.
I would have been a wounded soldier,
Cast upon the fields.
I would have been a captured slave,
To die a lonely death.
But someone came,
To pick me up,
And save me from these chains.

It was Him,
Who gave me love to save me.
It was Him,
Who showed me peace and joy.
It was Him,
Who showed me just what mercy meant.
And grace fell down,
To cover me,
And I was whole again.

I would have been a lonely heart,
Sent to darkened roads.
I would have been a broken spirit,
Lost along the way.
I would have been an orphaned child,
Alone eternally.
But someone came,
To lift me up,
And save me from these chains.

It was Him,
Who gave me love to save me.
It was Him,
Who showed me peace and joy.
It was Him,
Who showed me just what mercy meant.
And grace fell down,
To cover me,
And I was whole again.

It was Him,
Who gave His Son to save me.
It was Him,
Who offered me true love.
It was Him,
Who looked beyond my sin and shame.
And grace fell down,
To cover me,
And I was whole again.

Yes grace fell down,
To cover me,
And I was whole again.

Kyle’s head is bowed, his eyes closed as he takes in the words to the song. He knew them by heart – he had written them himself, but that gave them no less meaning. Emotion is etched on his face as he reflects on his own life…how close to death he’d felt just hours…and the Shelter that he’d known for so long. He was blessed to be alive, and even more so to actually be up and walking.

The service continues with communion and a short offering, ending with more singing where everyone could join in. The excitement and energy fill the room as shouts of praise rang out, the music inspiring the soul.

All too soon, the music is fading, and people are starting to filter out of the large room. Kyle is on his feet and turns to Misty, a peaceful smile on his lips. He cocks his head, his eyes gazing on hers, just watching…studying.

As the people grow less and less, once again Kyle takes Misty’s hand, leading her back outside, more people greeting them along the way, including Phil who is able to find them, saying that he’ll see them later.

Back into Misty’s car, Kyle tries to hide his exhaustion behind his smile. He didn’t know what Misty thought of this morning…but he hoped she’d enjoyed herself, and he was glad that he’d had the opportunity to bring her today. He wouldn't ask her any questions unless she brought the subject up herself.

Pointing towards the street, he grins. “I got somewhere special to go for lunch,” he mentions quietly. “Hang a right out of here.”