Don't want to...

Feeling Wendy scoot in closer, Clint naturally wraps an arm around her, continuing his conversation with Jason.

The talk ceases momentarily as Katie comes back in. Clint picks it back up though, pretending everything was normal, unwilling to draw attention to the fact that Kate had left them earlier.

"Hey, Katie. Set yourself down."

Jason quirks an eyebrow at Katie's comment and grins. "Since I learned how to duck your radar?"

Clint gets a scheming look in his eye. "Jase, you gonna thank her like you said you were gonna?"

"Oh yeah." Jason nods, looking at Katie. "Wes showed me the room...said you had quite a bit to do with it...." He looks her in the eye, emitting his gratefulness and excitement. "Thank you."

"Naw, man!" Clint rolls his eyes. "You think you're gonna get away that easy?!"

Jason throws him a look. "Yes."

"No way." Clint elbows Wendy, thriving on his own mischief. "Don't you think he ought to thank her proper?"

Jason can feel the heat again, and smirks. "Clint... watch it, will you?"

"Oh, I'm watching, but I ain't seeing anything."

Jason rolls his eyes. Sorry. I was teasing Wendy earlier with a kiss to thank her, now Clint thinks I ought to kiss you too. I don't want to embarrass you...
His thoughts trail off, for some reason evoking some strange feelings again that he battled to stay down. "You realize, Clint, that I could just as easily thank you. Apparently you were in on it too."

"Whoa, man!" Clint throws up his hands. "I don't want no thanks from you. No siree!!" He scoots in closer to Wendy. "Protect me!"

Ninja

*As Wendy receves Clint's kiss this time she returns it wrapping her arms around his neck untill he lets her up. Stumbaling just a little at Clint lets her up her own face is flush with the relization of everyone who was watching. Looking to her mother Angel just shakes her head and laughs a little.*

"Well now...I don't think you will be stealing me away after all."

*Sitting down next to Clint again Wendy can't help but blush as they talk about her paintings. She never thought they were that good but it was always nice to hear it from someone alse.*

"Well I am happy you liked it. It took me long enough."

*Wendy leans into Clint just a little bit more soaking up his warmth as she shivers just a little.*

*Katie sits and watches her Uncle walk away for a moment just thinking. Indeed she had never been close to him but for a moment it felt like she new him her whole life.

Standing Katie pulls her hoody alittle bit tighter around her neck as it was a bit cold out. Slowly making her way to the Mess hall again Katie didnt want to be to antisocial. Entering the mess hall and seeing Jason Katie smiles just a little bit walking over to him.*

"Well well well when did you become a ninja?"

*Katie slides down into a chair next to Jason her hands still in her pockets.*

Enough trouble

Cindy snuggles in next to Wes to watch the show, a smile pasted on her face as she hears the music and sees Jason on stage. She was so proud of him... he'd come so far...made it through so much.

Her fingers find Wes' to wrap around his, settling further into the couch.


Clint drags Jason around for a minute, then hearing Wendy, he stops for a moment, his eyes widening.

Jason his hunched over under Clint's arm, panting. "Yeah, man...go for it."

Clint pulls to a halt before getting to the back door, thinking. Looking at Jason, he gets a crooked grin, knowing that Jason had meant nothing other than a tease by kissing Wendy. "Okay."

Dropping Jason, he whirls around, takes Wendy into a dip and presses his lips to hers.

"Yo, Clint!" Jim yells at his son from across the room. "Did you forget where you were, Bud?"

Clint breaks the kiss to straighten up, his face red, but his humor still there. "Nope. It was a matter of principle."

Jim shakes his head, a wry grin toying with his mouth. "Well take your principles out of the mess hall the next time before you and I have to have a talk."

Clint's grin widens from ear to ear and he turns back to Wendy, taking her hand again. Flopping down in a chair, he pulls her down next to him, looking up at Jason. "So...now that that's over. Hi."

Jason chuckles and sits down across from them. "Hi." He throws an amused look at Wendy. "Sorry. But...I really do like the room. What you did was incredible."

"Oh, that." Clint nods. "She's amazing, isn't she?"

"That she is."

A few others in the room walk by, greeting Jason and stopping by to say hi, offering smalltalk. Jason looks around though, one person seeming to be absent. "Katie around here?"

Clint quirks an eyebrow. "You planning on thanking her too like that or what?"

Jason can't help it that color creeps into his face. "I wanted to tell her how much I enjoyed the room, and thank her for her contribution, yes." He smirks at Clint. "But I got in enough trouble by thanking with a kiss. I'm not sure I could handle a second round."


Trent turns his head a moment as he hears a ruckus in the mess hall, then looks back at Katie. "I know...the darkness...it can seem like it goes on forever. But even the dimmest light will eventually reach it's destination."

He reaches over to gently pat her shoulder. "Hang in there, Katie... Just hang in there."

Standing up, he stuffs his hands back in his pockets and trudges toward the barn.

Should start

*Wes smiles at Cindy puting his arm around her and holding her close.*

"As long as its with you I would love to. I am glad Jason feels at home."

*Getting up and puts the DvD in Wes sits back down snuggling next to Cindy and enjoying the movie.*

*Katie snaps her head up hearing Trent's voice and is startled for just a moment. She's never been to close with him that she can remember but her Aunt had told her who he was. It felt strange now to have him sitting next to her but on the other had it was kind of nice. Sometimes having someone to talk to that your hardly know is easyer than the person you new all your life.

Looking at Trent for a moment Katie takes in everything he says and than looks back to the sky and all the colors.*

"Its easy to say that ya know, its harder to do it."

*Katie lets out a long sigh. She didn't know what she was thinking.*

"I guess its just hard to see the light when one minute your giving someone a kiss and the next your saying goodbye. The darkness seems so heavy its just hard."

*Katie looks down at her hands for a moment just thinking.*

*As Jason enters the mess hall Wendy is about to give him a greeting when she is pulled from her chair and slung into his arms. Not sure what is going on and before she can even think Jason lips meet hers and for a moment she is not sure what on earth to do.

Once Jason lets go and Wendy is standing infront of Clint blinking her eyes and just standing with her mouth open a little but not sure what to say or do all she can do it blink. Before Wendy can say anything again Jason and Clint start at it.

Finally unable to contain it any longer Wendy breaks out in laughs as she watches the two boys. Decieding to get in on the actions she walks over to Clint and brights her hands to his sides tickling him.*

"Maybe you should start kissing me like that too."

*Wendy toss a wink at Clint.*

Jason!

Clint slips an arm around Wendy's shoulders, giving her a gentle squeeze. "It's alright," he assures quietly. "You didn't do anything wrong."

He sighs a little and looks outside, hoping Katie would be alright. He knew she must hurt something awful.

Turning back to his food, he nudges Wendy with his elbow. "If you don't hurry up and eat what's on your plate, it's mine," he teases, trying to make her smile.


As Jason steps into the room, he stops dead in his tracks. His jaw almost drops, his eyes widening. In pure shock, he just stares, unable to take everything in at one glance.

Blinking, he looks at Wes as if he's crazy, back at the room, then again at Wes, astonishment on his face.

Not even able to get any kind of words to come out, Jason simply steps in further, looking closer at the artwork on the wall...the pictures...the music.

Spotting a picture of Scott with the band, Jason lifts a hand, to run a finger over the glass in the frame, a lump rising in his throat. Moving on quickly to hold his composure, he walks to the dresser and the bed, running his hand over the intricate carvings.

Looking to the end of the room with the guitars, and the window, finally, Jason can't keep his emotions bottled up any longer. Turning around, tears glisten in his eyes. Though standing taller than Wes, he suddenly felt so small.

He opens his mouth, but has to stop and look down for a moment before glancing up again. "I...I don't...I don't know how to thank you. This..." He gestures to everything in the room. "It's so...it's more than... than I could ever deserve."

Jason swallows hard, trying to keep the tears from overflowing. He felt like that little boy again, who had dreamed of having a family...a house to run in, a room all his own. He'd been happy with his mom...and Austin had been a support. But his little boy heart still had dreams that had never been realized, and he'd simply left them behind. Now that he was on his own, he'd discarded anything like that, moving on to more logical and practical things.

But this...someone else who had experienced their heart's desires as a child might take this as silly. But Jason couldn't be more thrilled...more honored... he was home.

Looking at Wes, his jaw tightens, still fighting the emotions. "Thank you...Wes."

Cindy slips in from the hallway, her face beaming. She sidles up next to Wes for a moment, putting an arm around his waist and leaning her head on his shoulder. She can't help but smile at her son. "You like it?"

A short laugh escapes. "Like it? Are you kidding me?"

Cindy gives Wes a squeeze. "Good."

"Aw man..." Jason is smiling, for now the tension gone...for now, his apprehensions and stress dissolving. He sets his hands on his hips and turns again, glancing around the room once more. "This is amazing...just...amazing. How many people knew about this?"

Cindy chuckles. "A lot. You have one batch of good friends, Jase."

"You're telling me." Jason shakes his head. He did have a good batch of friends...friends he took for granted too often...and this family that he took for granted too often. Turning around, he holds out his arms.

Cindy lets go of Wes to give Jason a big hug. "I'm so glad you're here...this is your home too, Jason... no matter what, no matter when."


Trent is the first to exit the mess hall, while others still linger or finish up their meal. It was his routine… Though mostly being a part of things around the ranch, he wasn’t all that close to anyone, and being by himself was just usually how things ended up.

Stepping outside by way of the front door, he takes a deep breath of the evening air. It was just starting to get dark out, the orange grayness settling over the ranch yard.

Once off the porch, he heads to the barn to finish up a few chores, but the figure on the bench catches his eye. Nearing cautiously, he realizes that the huddled form was Katie, and that the sounds were her crying.

Trent almost keeps on going. He didn’t hardly know Katie at all. He remembered her some as a little kid, he’d heard a lot about her recently, and he’d seen her the last time she’d been here. But…that was about it. He might have been her uncle, but blood was about the only thing between them.

But as he starts to walk away, something stops him. He just couldn’t do it.

Giving a little sigh, Trent turns around and walks slowly back, easing down quietly next to Katie on the bench. He doesn’t say anything for a while, but just sits…looking out at the setting sun.

“You know…a lot of people through the years have told me how to make it through my circumstances. They’ve told me that things aren’t all that bad…or that I’m not alone…or that things will get better. And all those things are meant to help a guy move on. Funny thing is…” Trent shakes his head. “…none of that stuff makes the pain go away.”

He’s quiet again, leaning back on the bench, his hands in his jacket pockets. “They say time heals wounds too, but that has yet to be proven to me. It might make a thick scab, but…either a lifetime just isn’t long enough, or time can only fix the little wounds.”

He glances down at the ground, rolling a piece of gravel under his boot. “Somehow though…somehow hearts move on. Whether they mend or not is to be debated, but they do move on. Can’t explain it…and at the time when the hurt is so bad, it sure don’t look like it’ll ever go away…but somehow…it does. God has a funny way of doing things sometime.”

Trent turns his head to look at Katie, his heart aching. “Cry… mourn… grieve… spend time alone… do whatever it takes. Just don’t lose yourself. ‘Cause that’s the hardest thing to get back.”


Jason sits on the edge of his bed, still just looking around the room. He’d been left alone for a little while, and tried to get over the shock. A light feeling of happiness had been offered. It might be temporary, but it was there now, and he wanted to enjoy it while it lasted.

Getting up, he goes over to the other end of the room and picks up the acoustic guitar, strumming, then tuning, then strumming again. Then going to the electric, he does the same, picking out a few notes before setting it back on its stand. No.. he certainly didn’t deserve this. It was all too great…too much. But from now on…he wouldn’t avoid coming here. He was realizing that though things were different, this really was his family, and he was very much a part of it.

Walking back to the bed, he stops and looks at the mural again, a smile creasing his lips. He reaches out to touch the painting…everything was so life-like. Wendy was indeed a fantastic artist. The details were amazing, the colors so vivid and real.

Glancing at his watch, Jason makes up his mind. This was too good to pass up. He couldn’t wait all night. There were people to thank, and he was on too much of a high to want to wait until morning. There was no way he could sleep now anyway.

Exiting the room, he finds Cindy and Wes in the living room. “I’m gonna take a little jaunt to the ranch,” he mentions, heading for his backpack.

Cindy is nestled in next to Wes in front of the television, and nods to her son. “Alright. You want to take the car, you can.”

“No…” Jason shakes his head. “A walk sounds good. In the meantime…” He pulls a DVD out of his backpack and goes to hand it to his mom. “A few concerts ago, someone filmed the show. I…thought you might want to see it.”

Cindy’s face lights up. “Of course I would!”

“Well…that’s your copy, so…” Jason retreats toward the door. “I’ll be back later.”

“Okay.” Cindy watches him leave, fingering the homemade DVD. “He’s come so far,” she comments quietly. “Thank you for helping him, Wes. I’m so glad to have you and this family…I couldn’t ask for more.”

Smiling, she holds up the disc. “I’ve never seen him on stage. You want to watch it?”


The evening air is cool, and Jason is glad he’s got his leather jacket on. The walk doesn’t take him long, and before he knows it, he’s in the ranch yard. Seeing the lights on and a lot of shadows in the dining hall, he knows that most are still up, not having dispersed yet.

He doesn’t bother going around front, but knows the back entrance well, and enters quietly.

Scanning the room, he spots a few people who see him, and he waves his greeting. Looking around, he finds who he really wants to see.

Clint is still sitting next to Wendy, though supper is over, and Jeff is now across from them, trying to get them to play a card game.

Jason walks with a purpose, catching Clint’s eye, then giving a grin to Wendy.

“Hey, Jase!” Clint gives him a casual salute. “How’s it hanging?”

Jason’s eyes narrow as they twinkle. “You have no idea.” Without any warning, he reaches down and takes Wendy’s arm to pull her up out of her chair. “And you…” He looks at her with forced sternness. “…didn’t your mother ever teach you not to write all over the wall?”

Not letting go of her arm, he cocks his head to see around her to Clint. “I’m sorry man, but I owe her this one.” Not waiting for any kind of response, Jason pulls Wendy back around, putting her off balance just enough to tilt her back before planting a purposeful but light kiss right on the lips.

Clint is immediately on his feet, his chair falling over backward.

Too quick, Jason has righted Wendy again and puts her between him and Clint as a shield. “Now, now.” He chokes on a laugh, but manages a whisper in Wendy’s ear. “Thank you.”

Clint scowls at him, not sure whether to laugh or start swinging. “Jason!”

“What?” Jason gives Wendy’s shoulder a pat, then lets her go, stepping to the side to make himself vulnerable to Clint.

Clint steps forward, his fists balled. “What are you thinking?!”

“I’m thinking you better take good care of this woman, or I’m liable to steal her from you.”

Knowing he’ll miss, Clint swings anyway. Jason ducks, steps forward, his shoulder meeting Clint’s chest. His arms go around Clint’s frame in one smooth move, and in an instant, he’s standing with Clint slung over his shoulders starting to slide down his back.

“Let me go!” Clint shrieks.

“I told you never to swing like that,” Jason chides, breathing heavily from holding onto Clint’s frame. “But if you insist.”

Clint is suddenly released. Falling to the floor, he winds up landing in the middle of several chairs. Sliding between them, his arms and legs get all tangled in them, the resounding crash echoing through the dining hall. Flailing like an upturned turtle, he fights off the chairs to finally get himself back on his feet, though a tad bit dizzy. Jumping up, he somehow manages to get an arm around Jason’s neck for a side headlock and starts dragging him to the door.

“Help!” Jason starts to laugh, not really trying to fight off Clint at all. “Some welcome this is!” he hollers. “Wendy, get your crazed boyfriend off of me!”

Second Home

*Wendy smiles and pats Clint's leg as he sits down next to her.*

"I thought maybe you got attacked by more chairs."

*Wendy cant help the giggle that escaped her lips.*

*Katie smiles as the two go back and forth for a moment. Shaking her head she finally answers Clint.*

"How could I forget you guys? Just because I am busy dosn't mean I forgot who my family is."

*Katie smiles just a little and keeps the conversation up. Talking a little about work, and home life. Catching up on all the happing around the ranch Katie trys her best to keep the talk off her.*

"So Katie do you still drive the spitfire of a car Scott gave you?"

*After Wendy finishs her sentince she relizes what she just said and her eyes grow a little larder as she looks down at the table fast.*

"I'm sorry I ment....sorry."

*The smile from Katie's face fades as the mention of Scott comes up. What was a harmless sentince shouldnt have bother Katie but it his her alot harder than exspected sending her mind reeling and more memories to come flooding back. In an instint Katie can feel the tears that well up in her eyes. Standing from the table Katie whispers.*

"Excuse me please."

*Not saying anymore Katie leaves the table and heads outside to one of the benches. Sinking down on it and puting her head in her hands as the tear just come once again. When would she stop feeling like this. Why...why did it have to hurt?*

*Wendy looks to Clint and than to Rosetta and the other faces at the table.*

"I didn't mean...I...didn't think....I'm sorry."

*Wendy looks down at the table. She felt like crap for bring up Scott. It just sliped out of her mouth before she even though about what she was saying. Now she hurt her friend and she hated feeling that.*

*Rosetta looks to Wendy with simpathy before looking to Mick and than looking to the door were Katie disapeared. She wished there was a way to whip the pain away but there wasent, there was only time.*

"It's ok Wendy. You didn't mean to. Katie just needs some time."

*Wes gives a streach as he stands and nods at Jason. A small grin forming on his lips. Jason might want to go to bed but Wes wasnt going to let him just yet.*

"Before you head to bed I have something to show you. I'm not sure if you will like it or not, but I guess I just wanted to do something nice for you."

*Wes shakes his head to the side to have Jason follow him down the hall. Stopping at the last door down at the end of the hall Wes lets out a sigh. Why he felt nervouse himself he wasnt sure. Maybe it was the fact that he was just hoping Jason would like it.*

"I had this ready for last time you were out but you didnt stay here and than you had to leave fast for your concert so I figured I would just wait till you came back. I hope you like it, and a few differnt people made it possable for this creation to come to be."

*Opening the door Wes steps in and stands to the side for Jason to follow in.

The walls of the room where panted black and white on the far wall was a murl painted of all the members of Jetstream standing together. Mick was on the drums in the back and than Kyle was with the keybored in front, Phil was to the other side with his bass and Jason was in the middle with his guitar. Along the top in big letters it said JetStream. The murle was excessively done. Every detail of the face even down to Jason's scar was add in. It looked like it took someone hours. In the far courner under the murle was the initiles of the artest WL.*

"Wendy panted that for me. She said it came out even better than she planed."

*Next the wooden dresser, Chest, bed frame, headbored and footbored all looked hand made and if you looked close enough you could make out music notes that had been ingraved into the wood along with a bunch of differnt words from some of the songs Jetstream had preformed.*

"You know how long it took me to carve words into wood. I think I must of thron out a million peaces of wood. But I finally got it just right."

*Next on the walls were pictures of Jetstream concerts and sheets of music from there songs. Also there were pictures of just Jason with the band at Mike's house, practicing, having dinner. There were even pictures of Jason with Katie, Jason with Mick, Jason with Scott, Scott with Katie, Katie with Jen, Jason alone. All were memories captured in time.*

"Katie got all those pictures together for me along with the sheets of music. When I told her what I was doing she was so excited to help. I made her promise not to say anything though."

*Than tucked around the small corner in a septet area sat something Wes was proud of and new Jason would like. Two guitars, one acoustic and one electric. along with a sheet music stand and an amp. Behind them was a big window that looked out over the backyard with a view to die for. Even at night the way the moon shown you could see for miles as the soft light lit up the ground.*

"I know when you come out you dont bring you own guitar. So I though maybe if you had one for when you here you can still practice. Con helped me with knowing what kind of guitars you liked. They arnt the greatest but I figured you might like them anyways."

*The rest of the room curtins, rug, bedding, and even the reclining chair had fabric on them white with black music notes on them to match the walls.

Wes leans aganst the one wall and cross his arms a smile on his face.*

"I hope you like it Jason. I know you were nervouse about coming out, and you felt strange now that life has changed so much but I was hoping that I could make this room so you would be comfortable here and consider this your second home. We love ya Jase."

*Wes gives Jason a pat on the shoulder as he starts to head out the door.*

Siblings

Most everyone is present in the dining hall as supper starts, the chatter continuing, some hollering over to Katie once in a while to ask questions or chat. Austin is sure to say hello to her too, inquiring about Jason and finding out he'd gone on ahead to his mom's. A slight bit of disappointment flickers in his eyes, but he says nothing, easing into the cheer around him.

After the meal has started, the back door opens and Clint comes in, the latest to arrive. He's freshly showered - an obvious sign that he'd been too big of a mess from the shop to come in right away. He's lost a little bit of weight since he'd seen Katie last, and looks good, coming up to the other side of the table and sliding in next to Wendy.

"Well, look who the cat dragged in." He grins, tossing Katie a teasing wink. "Good to see you back in this neck of the woods. Thought maybe you forgot about us."

His foot nudges Wendy's under the table as an apology for being late, as he keeps talking to Katie. "So where's that scoundrel of a man who calls himself Hotshot? I had to hear over the grapevine he was coming - he didn't even answer my emails, the turkey."


Feeling Katie's response, helps Jason's emotions ease of just a little bit. Though there was tension between them, he was ever so glad they could still communicate.

Hearing Wes' words, Jason's eyes drift to the floor again. He takes a deep breath, knowing his stepfather was right...he just needed to tell his mom and start being honest with her. He'd never directly lied, but...he'd been misleading, which was just as bad.

"Thanks, Wes..." He looks up again. "I don't exactly know how Camryn felt... This connection with Katie and me has....well...sort of evolved I guess, into something bigger and I suppose it was hard for Camryn to accept. I guess if I was in her shoes I might have felt the same way." He shrugs. "Maybe you're right...maybe it just wasn't meant to be."

Hearing Wes' comments about his mom, Jason nods. "You're right...I guess I just got started down that path and didn't know how to get off again. I do need to just tell her. It's just..."

"You two look awfully serious in here." Cindy comes into the living room, drying her hands on a dish towel.

Jason looks up in surprise, his face reddening slightly.

Seeing the looks on both men's faces, Cindy lifts an eyebrow. "What is it...is something wrong?"

"No. Yes... I mean..." Jason looks to Wes and rolls his eyes. Here he went again. "I...was just.... telling Wes a few things that.... that I need to tell you too..."

Cindy eases down in a chair, worry in her eyes. "What is it, hun? What's wrong?"

Jason goes on to explain the best he can, first about him and Katie, so Wes will know more as well, telling how things had progressed and how the connection had strengthened. He talks a bit about his knee, exposing the truth of it all, then he finally tells about him and Camryn.

Cindy is leaned back in the chair, having grown silent as she'd listened to her son. Hearing about Camryn, when Jason finally becomes quiet, she gives a little nod. "I thought that's what had happened."

Jason's eyes widen. "You knew?"

"Oh...I wasn't sure, but I thought maybe things hadn't worked out."

"How?"

Cindy smiles. "Call it a mother's intuition."

Jason is slightly taken aback. "Why didn't you say anything?"

"I guess I knew when the time was right, you would tell me. And...I wanted you to tell me yourself. So...I just waited."

Jason glances down. "I'm sorry...I just..."

"It's okay, Jason." Cindy's words are sincere. She looks to her husband, feeling so happy...she just wished Jason could find happiness too. "You do know you can tell me aything though, don't you? I love you so much...and that will never change."

"I know..." Jason sighs a little. "It was wrong of me to hide it from you. I'm just...glad you know now."

Cindy nods. "Me too."

Suddenly a cry breaks the silence and Cindy is on her feet. "Well, I guess someone is awake. I'll be back."

And she is... a few minutes later after calming Kaylee, Cindy comes back with her in her arms and walks slowly to Jason. "Jason...meet your sister."

Jason stands up and swallows hard. He didn't know why he felt nervous all of a sudden. It was just...different... knowing he had a sister. Looking down on the small bundle, he can't help the small smile that comes to his lips. Kaylee's eyes were so bright. She stared up at him in wonderment at who this stranger was.

Cindy looks at Wes, then back to Jason, beaming. "You can hold her..."

Jason almost backs up. "Oh, um, I..."

Cindy grins and shakes her head. "She won't break." Holding Kaylee out, she forces Jason to take hold of her, and helps him position his arms to cradle her.

Jason has never felt more awkward but good at the same time. Easing back down into the chair, he cradles Kaylee, his eyes studying her small, soft features.

She gurgles a little and almost smiles.

Jason grins and takes a finger to gently run across her head and down her face. Kaylee sees his hand, and reaches up with a tiny fist, latching onto his finger with a grip one would thing someone her size couldn't have.

Cindy chuckles. "Looks like she's not going to let you go."

Jason stares into the baby's eyes, overcome with a feeling...an emotion like no other. It was one he didn't understand, and couldn't hide. He had dreaded this...had not wanted to see his sister... a baby... much less be attached to her in any way. But feeling he tiny hand on his and seeing those eyes that probed his own... "I'm not going to let you go either," he whispers.

The three just sit in the living room for a while, quietly... peacefully...

Cindy watches her children, the smile never leaving her face. As the clock ticks on, Kaylee's eyes drift shut and before they know it, she's asleep in Jason's arms, her hand still grasping his finger.

Cindy chuckles and rises from her chair. "I better put her back to bed and see if she'll sleep a few hours."

It takes a bit of doing to pry the baby's fingers from Jason's, but they manage to do it without waking her, and Cindy quietly takes her back down the hall.

Jason gives a little sigh and looks up at the clock on the wall. "Guess bed sounds good to me right about now too. It wasn't a long trip, but I'm bushed."

She does

*Katie gives a small nod and starts to follow Jeff inside. She felt nervouse and Katie wasnt sure why. Maybe it was because she had been gone for so long. She hardly new anyone anymore. Life had changed so much and she was so out of the loop.

Entering the mess hall Katie felt strange at first but pasted a smile on her face anyways. and enters leting the warmth and laughter wash over her.*

*Rosetta looks up hearing the door open. As her eyes land on Katie Rosetta's eye beam as she stands going to her neices side and wrapping her arms around her.*

"Katie..."

*Rosetta can't help the tight embrace she keep her neice in for a long moment. Not only had she not seen her in so long but her heart went out to her as well for everything that had been going on.*

"..We've missed you. I'm so glad your here now."

*Katie is taken from her aunts warm embraces as she returns the hug. A few tears well up in her eye as she just holds her for a long time. Finally being here again made Katie relize just how long it had been.*

*Angel takes a pic of her water and shakes her head a smile on her face.*

"Rosetta if you don't let her go dinner is going to get cold, and after the long trip I am sure Katie is hungry."

*Smiling Angel holds up her hand and gives a wave to Katie.*

"Glade to have you here again Katie. Now dinner is complete."

*After everyone alse had givin there hellos and BJ made a big deal about Katie sitting next to him while Mick was on the other side everyone was settled for dinner and the small talk continues. Everyone keeping away from the subject of Scott, and what had happend for now.

Once durning the dinner Katie can feel some shift in emotions and stops for a moment consintrating.

It's ok J. You can do it.*

*After dinner is finished and Wes is in the living room with Jason they feeling of something wrong could be felt. When Jason finally confess Wes just sits and listens. Taking in everything that was said and giving a nod here and there. It was easy to see Jason really wa sin some term oil over everything and confused.*

"So, what your saying is Camryn broke it off with you because of Katie and your's connection. She didn't like or understand that face that when on of you were hurt the other had to come help. In a sence she probely didn't feel like she was good enough."

*Wes lets out a sigh as he collects his own thoughts on what to say.*

"..sounds to me she wasn't as confadent as she liked to show she was."

*Wes shakes his head for a moment.*

"Well, everything happend for a reason and you just went ment to merrie Camryn. I think its better this came out now than later on down the road after you both had been married and it would of ended worse. I know it hurts, oh boy do I know. But in the end Jason you'll find the one your ment to be with.

As for your mom...just tell her like you told me. You might fumble with you words but thats ok. She is going to love you no matter what, and she is so proude of you and everything you have done. Yes she is going to be sad and disapointed but not in you. She loves you Jason."

*Wes gives a nod and smiles.*

"And for your knee...well I understand why you didnt tell you mom that. I offten dont tell her when I hurt myself in the shop eather."

*Wes can't help but let out a chuckle.*

"She really does worry to much. But I think she will understand when you tell her that too. Just let her know the truth and dont dodge around it anymore and it will be ok. Thats one thing I love the most about you mother. She has a big heart and is pretty understanding about everything."

Admitting...

Jeff gives his niece a tight hug. "Mm, it's good to see you too, Katie. Just isn't the same without you around here."

He stands back and holds Katie at arm's length for a moment, then gives her a wink. "Come on. Supper's about ready and I know one frantic aunt who is dying to see you."


Jason returns Wes' handshake, starting to relax just a little. He laughs at the mention of his mom's cooking. "Tell me about it... I've been living off tv dinners - this is gonna be heaven."

Before they know it, supper is under way. Cindy promises to introduce Jason and Kaylee after supper, mentioning that right now she was asleep. Jason doesn't mind a bit, not to admit that it was quite alright with him...he wouldn't mind if it was morning, just to avoid another awkward situation.

Talk is kept light. Jason finds himself skirting around too many issues, or changing too many subjects. He realizes he's done it one too many times when his mother grows fairly quiet, seeming to give up on conversation. Though feeling bad, Jason just can't bring himself to say what he needs to.

By the time Cindy is in the kitchen washing dishes, and Jason and Wes are in the living room, Jason's guilt is too much to handle.

Staring at the carpet for a long while, he finally looks up at Wes. "I...I'm sorry I wasn't that sociable tonight at supper." He swallows hard. "There's just... some things that I... I haven't..."

Jason rolls his eyes at himself and leans forward to rest his elbows on his knees. He glances towards the kitchen where the sound of the running water in the sink will mask anything said in here.

"I haven't been honest with my mom lately, Wes." He gives a nod, finally brave enough to simply state the facts. "I don't know what she's told you but... the truth is, I'm not engaged any more. Camryn broke up with me quite a while ago because of... well... because of something with Katie and me."

His eyes widen slightly, realizing the implications of what he'd just said. "Not...romance or anything. Just, um... the whole... sixth sense thing kinda got...bigger and...."

Jason's voice trails off. He can feel the heat rising to his face. How on earth could he explain something like this? He felt stupid.

Crash and burn. This is not going well.

Closing his eyes for a moment, he regroups. "Bottom line... Camryn's not in the picture anymore...the wedding is off, and my mom still thinks I'm engaged because I've been leading her on."

He's finally courageous enough to look up at Wes again. He felt like a little kid admitting he'd done something wrong. It was weird...he'd never been in that position with a man before...not like this... it had always just been his mom.....

Blinking to refocus, Jason licks his dry lips. "Not to mention, I just got off my crutches recently too. I didn't want Mom worrying about my knee. So now... I have absolutely no idea how to tell her any of this and I feel like a complete and total idiot."

Best

*See Jeff come out of the mess hall Katie can't help but smile just a little. Even if it wasn't her normal smile it was better than nothing. Keeping her head low for a moment Katie walks a little bit more before reaching Jeff and putting her arms around him in a hug. It did feel good to be home despite the memories.*

"Hi Uncle Jeff. It's good to see you."

*Wes shakes his head and gives content sigh as he watchs his wife rush to the door and the excitment that shown in her eyes.

Leaning back in his chair and seeing Jason Wes smiles and stands. Walking over to Jason he stick his hand out and smiles.*

"Welcome back Jason. We have been looking forward to seeing you."

*Wes helps Jason with his bag putting it in the living room for now.*

"I think dinner is just about done, I'm glad you made it in time. Your mom makes the best food I ever tasted."

Greetings

Jason would like to tell Katie it was more than alright, and quite frankly, he'd like it if she came along with him to begin with. But...he knew she was here for her own family too...and he didn't want to pull her away from that.

Thanks, Hero.

A part of him wants to hug her...she looked so lost... he felt so lost... but she's already on her way. Instead, he simply doesn't let her hand go, and walks with her up the driveway.

Getting into the ranchyard, Jason changes his mind about staying here for a while. He would see Austin and everyone else later or tomorrow. Glancing around, he doesn't see anybody closeby, so he opts to just go ahead and head for the house.

Turning to Katie, he gives a nod. "I'll catch you later. If you need anything..." He lets the sentence hang. He knew that she knew the rest. Aiming for the lane, he heads off before anyone can stop him. Maybe the walk would do him good anyway...clear his mind a little.



The mess hall is alive as always this time of the evening. Dishes clatter, voices echo and laughter rings. Suppertime was always the ranch fellowship time. It was like this year round... but especially now when the visiting season was over, just having the close-knit family and friends...it made it seems just a little extra special.

Jeff is the first to glance out the window and see the two newcomers. A smile creases his lips. Seeing Jason part from Katie, he quietly gets up from his seat without announcing it to anyone else. Slipping outside, he steps down off the porch, hooking his hands in his pockets. He hadn't put a jacket on and it was chilly, but he didn't mind. He cocks his head and gives Katie a warm smile. "Welcome home, Katie."



Jason wanders up the driveway and to the front door, a slight lump rising in his throat. His pulse quickened just a little. His emotional state felt like a jar trying to contain fireworks. Taking a deep breath, he pushes it all aside, and stands a little taller before ringing the doorbell.

Cindy almost drops the plate before setting it onto the dining room table, squealing with delight. She almost runs into Wes in her excitement. Hurrying to the door, she throws it open and just looks up at her son for several moments, her smile widening from ear to ear. "Jason."

He can't help but return a crooked smile. "Mom."

Cindy can't wait any longer and throws her arms around him. "Oh, Jason, I'm so glad you finally came!"

Jason returns the hug, feeling just a bit of guilt creeping up on him for waiting so long.

Cindy withdraws and looks at him again for a few more seconds, her eyes dancing. "You alone?"

"Um...yeah."

"You never did say if Camryn would be coming or not, so I didn't plan on..."

"It's okay," Jason interrupts, putting a hand on her shoulder. "It's just me."

Cindy gives a sigh, then suddenly realizes she's still standing in the door. "Oh, come in. Put your bag down, and we're just getting ready for supper." She stops, her eyes widening. "And it's going to burn if I don't take it out of the oven!"

Jason grins and shakes his head. It had been a long time since he'd seen his mom like this. Stepping inside, he sets his backpack down and looks around for a moment. It felt strange...this was his family's home...but not his home...but sort of...

Turning around, he sees that Wes is in the dining room, and slowly enters, again, unsure of himself. He'd thought he'd gotten over this awkwardness before, but... maybe it was all the secrets he'd been keeping that made it worse. "Hey, Wes."

Wen't human

*Turning around Rosetta looks at Jeff and shakes her head pointing a spoon at him.*

"And let me guess you stood there and laughed at him right?"

*Turning back around and gives one last stir Rosetta puts the spoon down and whipes her hands on the towle.*

"Well let hope that bean sprout in there dosn't eat it all before Mick comes in."

*Going to the cubord Rosetta pulls out some plates and grabs and extra one for Jeff along with BJ's frog plate. Setting the table she nods to the napkins behind Jeff.*

"I think he might eat us out of house and home. He's growing so fast."

*Rosetta gives a small chuckle and takes the napkins from Jeff placing them on the table.*

"But ya know, I wouldn't change it for the world Jeff. Except maybe not taking on cyclone. That horse I tell ya, and that husband of mine bless his heart and not giving up."

*Giving a smile Rosetta goes back to the stove and checks the dinner.*

"Oh, I won't let Mick know you told me."

*Rosetta gives a chuckle again.*

*Instead of sitting down right away Wes come up behind Cindy and wraps his arms around her resting his head on the top of hers for a moment. Than finally he goes to sit down kicking off his shoes.

Wes loved coming home to the house. It was hard to believe before he was married to Cindy he was living out of his shop in a small dirty room. How everything had changed for the best since than and how happy he was.*

*Most of the ride Katie is quiet just looking out the window. She didnt know what to say, she wasnt sure about anything. Not paying much mind to when Jason bumped her. It didn't bother her being close to him. As saspected the ride was long and quiet.

Once geting out of the taxi and standing in the drive way with her bag Katie is bombarded with memories of the last time she was here with Scott. She hadn't relized how much it would hit her till this moment. But through her own term oil Katie feels another. Turning and see Jason look at her and hearing his message Katie trys her best to push her own feeling away for now. She wanted to be there for her friend even just a little though she wasnt sure how much good even she could do.

Reaching out Katie takes Jason's hand and hold it for a moment trying her best to keep her own emotions at bay.

You can do this J. I know you can. Your mom will love you no matter what, Your sister is going to love you, Wes likes having you around. It's ok to be scaired. I would say you wernt human if you wernt.

Katie gives Jason's hand a gentil squeeze and starts forwards twords the ranch.

If you call me and let me know when its ok, I'll come and see Kaylee. I can come with you but I dont want to invade anything.*

Tell me

“Dang it!” Mick presses his hand into his other palm to stop the blood flow.

Jeff reaches out quickly to grab the leadrope of the young escaped horse, trying to calm the colt down. “Mick, you alright?”

“Yeah, I’m fine.” Mick’s tone was exasperated as he grabs his bandana from his pocket. “Ripped right loose from me. I just got rope burn pretty bad.”

Jeff cringes. “Ouch.”

“Yeah, ouch,” Mick retorts sarcastically. “I don’t know why I said yes to taking on this brute.”

Jeff gets yanked forward as the colt starts misbehaving again. “I don’t know either.”

Mick uses his teeth to tie the bandana off around his palm, then goes to Jeff’s rescue, taking the rope again. “Well, he’s not going to get away with this one.”

Jeff quirks an eyebrow as he watches Mick head to the round wing with a longing whip. “Have fun.” Once out of earshot, he shakes his head, still talking. “And don’t get bucked off like yesterday…” He grimaces. Rosetta didn’t know about that one.

Sighing, he heads out of the barn to the mess hall, his stomach growling. Once inside, he grabs an apple off the table, and wanders to the kitchen where he sees Rosetta. Passing the toy room, he grins in on BJ. “Yo, Beej, my man! What up?!” After giving him a high-five, and commenting on a lego creation, he goes the rest of the way to the kitchen.

Seeing his sister, he smiles, taking a bite of his apple. “That husband of yours might be a little late for lunch. He’s out there with Cyclone again. Just got his palm tore up… but you didn’t hear it from me.”


Cindy laughs and takes the celery from Wes, pointing it at him. “Yes, Kaylee is sleeping, finally. I couldn’t get her down for anything this morning. But now I’m all set. Just sit down and let me get your lunch.”

She beams as she goes about preparing the noon meal. This is what she loved…this is what she’d always wanted. Being a mom had been her joy, but now, not having to work, and being able to really keep up a home, be a wife, and a mother again…blessing didn’t even cover it.


Jason gives a little grin at Katie, holding in a teasing comment. Now probably wasn’t the time to tease her about worrying.

“Alright, come on.” Leading the way, Jason heads to the exit of TJY, waving at a couple people on the way out. Once to his truck, he throws his bag in the backseat, waits for Katie, and they’re on their way.

The ride to the airport was quick. Phil and Mike would come get Jason’s pickup later today, then someone would give them a ride from the airport when they got back.

The plane was waiting, and all it takes is a walk to the steps and they’re in, settled, and before they know it, they’re in the air.

The ride is quiet… Jason keeps mostly to himself, doing his best to keep his rampant thoughts protected. Katie need not worry herself with his problems right now…his biggest one seeing his mom. There were things he needed to tell her that he had no idea how he was going to. Then there was seeing Kaylee…he wanted to… he really did… it just…felt…strange. Then again, underneath all that was that same growing, hated awkwardness he was feeling with Katie again. Would he ever feel right again?

Getting a taxi from the airport was easy. Sliding into the backseat with Katie, Jason accidentally bumps her with his knee. “Sorry,” he apologizes. His face reddens. Why, he didn’t know. This awkwardness shouldn’t even exist, and it was killing him. Glancing over to her, he gives her almost a cringe.

I’m sorry…just ignore me, alright?

Rolling his eyes at himself, he settles back in his seat and stares out the window. It would be a long ride.

…it was near suppertime when the taxi pulls up to the ranch driveway. Jason pays and holds Katie’s door for her, waiting until the car has pulled away to pick up his backpack again.

He stares down the drive. There were a few people moving around…he’d stay for just long enough to greet everyone, then would walk to his mom’s and Wes’. Why did he not want to move? Something just felt… he couldn’t put his finger on it. There would be a lot of talking… he had to face things… he had to experience new things… none was that bad… he would live through them all. They were just…hard.

I’m scared to face my mom…I’m scared to see my sister… I feel stupid for feeling scared.

He sighs and for a moment, turns to Katie, just looking at her.

Tell me I can do this… You will come later to see Kaylee too, right?

See them again

*Before Jason even reaches Katie cubicle she looks up, exspecting to see him. The last week had been rough and time still seemed to drag but Katie really was looking forward to going home. She missed the ranch more than ever, she miss her aunt and uncle she missed the open quiet country air and was looking forward to clearing her head there.

Finally as Jason arrives and leans over the cubicle Katie gives a nod and shuts her moniter off. Reaching for her bag she heaves a heavy sigh knowing she packed more than she needed but you never know what could happen.*

"I'm ready I think. I've already got my bag packed. I hope Wyatt remembers to take care of Domino...ah he should."

*Katie heaves a heavy sigh as she grabs her cell phone and puts it in her pocket along with her keys. She was going to leave her car at TJY and Jason was going to drive. Reese already new it was staying in the parking lot and was fine with it.*

"I'm just worrying to much. I know he will remember. I'm ready J. Lets get out of hear."

*Katie throws her backpack over her shoulder and starts to follow Jason out of TJY. One could only hope that the time away could heal the pain she felt inside. Mental, physical and emotional.*

*Wes can't help but smile at his wife as she gives him a hug and a kiss, returning it he cant help but put his arm around his wife as they walk back to the kitchen.*

"I'm starving for your good cooking."

*His smile grows bigger as he enters the kitchen and see everything has been prepaired for tonight. He was happy Jason was coming out. Cindy missed him dearly and it was a visit long over due.*

"My day was pretty slow. Now that its fall and moving into winter business is going to slow a little bit. Witch in a way is good. Mean I can spend more time with my family because I am sure Clint and Wendy can handle it."

*Leaning aganst the counter Wes pick at a peace of celery thats laying on the counter.*

"Is Kaylee sleeping? and can i do anything to help you hun?"

*Rosetta moves in and out of an empty bunk as she cleans it out for Katie. BJ running to and frow as he trys to catch a frog hopping in the grass.

Hearing from Austin what had happend to Scott Rosetta felt worse than ever for Katie. She was happy her neice was coming home and that maybe this could help her cop. She's been so happy and now to have that gone. It could only bring back memories not only that Katie lost someone dear but memories of when her mother and baby brother passed away as well. Rosetta could only hope she could make her neice feel at home once again.

Exiting the bunk Rosetta looks around the yard for a moment.*

"BBBBJJJJJ....."

*The small boy with firey red hair comes bounding around the courner with a frog in hand.*

"Look what I got mom....look what I got."

*Rosetta bends down to one keep and smiles at BJ as he holds the frog a warmth coming to her heart. Over the last month BJ had started called Rosetta and Mick mom and dad. It had felt strange at first but graduly Rosetta was getting use to it.

Ruffaling BJ's hair Rosetta smiles and shakes her head.*

"How about we let that frog go so you can chase him later and get dad for some lunch?"

*BJ smiles and squeels as the frog squirms in his finger tips till finally he lets go and takes Rosetta hand.*

"Is Katie coming today? Is her friend coming too?"

*Rosetta takes BJ's hand as they make there way to the dinning hall.*

"She will be here later and yes Jason is coming."

*BJ thinks for a moment and shakes his head.*

"No the other one I saw her kissing."

*Rosetta lets out a sigh as she relizes who BJ is talking about.*

"No hunny, Scott wont be coming. He lives in heaven now with Sam."

"Will we ever seen them again mom?"

"We will someday sweety we will."

*BJ and Rosetta disapear into the dineing hall BJ going to the toy room and Rosetta heading to the kitchen cooking up something for lunch.*

Ready?

Carson watches Misty leave, a strange tug at his heart. He didn’t recognize it. He wasn’t sure he’d ever felt it before. It made his feet want to follow her…yet he could not.

So he just stands, watching her walk away and join Kyle. But the words are whispered anyway. “See you soon…”

Turning, he pulls his jacket tighter around himself and ducks his head against the rain. It was a fair distance back to Mom and Pop’s. By the time he got back, he’d have just enough time to get into something dry before the evening rush. Maybe he’d call Jess later too…he felt like needing a distraction tonight.


Jason finds himself a little glad that Katie wants him to stay. Their lack of interaction just within the past few days had become a strange sensation, and at least able to be with her for a few minutes now seemed to ease the confused feelings just a little.

He places his hand over hers, just letting her sit…understanding her need to stay. He knew that Katie and Scott had been going through a rough time, and he’d figured out that they had probably decided to part ways. But their friendship had still been there…and love had still existed. Jason couldn’t imagine how Katie must feel now, to have lost that so suddenly.

Buried deeply enough to not be known to anyone else lay his own rampant feelings of this event, laced with emotions from other circumstances too. They confused him…a bewildering web of hurt, worry, fear, doubts, love… it was just writhing beneath the surface, begging to be sorted through, and Jason simply didn’t know how to do it. He didn’t know why he felt the way he did…he didn’t know why he did some of the things he did…he wasn’t understanding himself at all.

His mind reverts back to the night with Katie at Mom and Pop’s. He had denied her yet again. He’d justified it perfectly in his own mind. Yet he was still not at peace about any of it. He did have a longing…he did have a love…and yet he’d even lied about it once more when questioned point blank by Scott. What was his problem? Why was he continually messing things up even more? He didn’t understand…he didn’t know why his actions didn’t follow his heart anymore… he was frustrated that he couldn’t even figure himself out anymore.

And now…today…his best friend was hurting more than ever, and he didn’t even know how to comfort her. Not because he couldn’t be there…not because he couldn’t talk…but because of his ridiculous actions, he’d created this strange rift. It was a rift that had formed boundaries between them, that threw concern of appropriateness in their faces. Instead of just being able to be themselves, he’d stupidly made this tension himself, and now didn’t even know how to get rid of it.

Katie’s movements bring him back to the present, and he focuses on the dismal surroundings once more. He was getting cold, and the rain was soaking through to him.

Standing with her, he waits for her to finish, then catches her eye as she turns to leave. His emotions begged to form some sort of message and they were on the brink of being released, but instead, they all crumbled into a garbled heap.

Giving a little sigh, Jason stretches out his arm to put around Katie’s shoulders, walking her to his truck. I’ll give you a ride home.



“…yes, the files are here on my desk.” Jason rolls his eyes as he throws a couple things into his already-packed backpack.

Reese runs a finger down his notepad, following Jason around his office. “Well what about Brown’s…”

“I got that to him yesterday.” Jason stops and looks at him. “Reese…you’re the boss, remember? You’re in charge here. I think you can survive with me gone for a few days.”

“Yes, but…” Reese heaves a weary sigh. It had been a long week. Everything had been so topsy turvy after the case gone wrong, and now it had been several days after Scott’s funeral, and things were still a mess. They had a tech guy coming up from Arizona, but it wasn’t a permanent deal, and in the meantime, everything imaginable had been going wrong. All Reese wanted was some support around him, and now Jason and Katie were taking off for Texas. “I know, I know…you guys need the time off.”

“You can call,” Jason assures. “I was gonna say no communication, but after seeing you like this, I don’t have the heart.” He zips up his backpack. “I’ll have my cell phone with me.”

“What about Katie?”

Jason pauses, then shakes his head. “Don’t call her, Reese. She doesn’t need to be thinking about work right now.”

Reese purses his lips, brought back down a little bit. “Yeah…you’re right. I haven’t seen much of her.”

“Me either.” Saying that sounded a little strange, but it was true. Jason shrugs. “She’s been at Scott’s house a lot.”

“You think she’ll be okay?”

“Yeah.” Jason nods. “She will. She’s too tough not to be. It’ll just take a while.”

Reese cocks his head. “What about you?”

Jason shrugs again. “I’m always fine.”

Reese looks him in the eye skeptically, then gives his shoulder a pat. “Once a hotshot, always a hotshot. I know you better than that, but I won’t push it. Get out of here before I think of something else that I need.”

Jason grins a little and slings his backpack over his shoulder. “Wyatt’s taking care of Trooper and Domino…if he has trouble, have him call me.”

“What? I’m taking messages now too? You haven’t told him this?”

“Calm down!” Jason starts down the hall. “He’s out with Aerith right now, and I was just saying it so you didn’t worry when he complains.”

“Oh. Well why didn’t he tell me he was gone today?! Doesn’t anybody tell me anything anymore?”

Jason stops and turns for a moment. “Go…talk to Angelica or something to calm down, will ya?”

Reese bites his lip. It had been a long time since he’d felt this scatterbrained. “That bad, huh?”

Jason quirks an eyebrow. “Take an aspirin and call Rick in the morning.”

As Jason walks away, Reese throws up his hands. “I can’t help it that everybody is abandoning me!”

Jason gives a slight smile, heading onto the main floor. It was nearing noon…he was running just a little late.

Getting to Katie’s cubicle, he knocks on the wall and leans over the top. “Ready to go, Hero? Plane’s ready when we are.”


Carson runs a comb through his hair and takes one last look in the small mirror before tucking in his t-shirt and tightening his belt. He felt good…better than he had in a long time. His weight was about back down to where it used to be, his head and eyes were clear, and he was starting to regain some confidence that maybe things would eventually look up.

His morning jogs had helped. He’d finally gotten used to it again, and now had three different routes he took. Usually it was twice a week that he wound up passing by Misty’s. It never failed that he had an urge to stop, but of course, he never did. Companionship was satisfied though, in the afternoons and evenings when Jess would come by Mom and Pop’s. Carson enjoyed the company, and found her presence something he not only appreciated, but simply liked as well.

Heading to the kitchen, he swings the door open and grabs for an apron. “Morning, Herb. What do we got going today?”


Cindy bustles around the kitchen, stirring, pouring and baking. The house was clean, Kaylee was fed, changed and asleep, the laundry was done, and now supper was almost ready to throw in the oven later in the day.

She wipes the sweat from her brow then stops and smiles as she hears Wes come in the back door. It was close to noon, and he was probably hungry for lunch.

Meeting him in the entryway, she greets him by throwing her arms around him and pressing her lips to his. Drawing back, she smiles, her eyes sparkling. “Hi. Hungry? I got your lunch, and I got everything ready for when Jason gets here, and..” She stops, realizing she’s chatting excitedly, and giggles. “Sorry…” She was so thrilled to know her son was coming, that it was hard to hold it in. “Have a good morning in the shop?”

Little longer

*Misty gives a small nod of the head. She felt strange standing here talking to Carson but in times like this it can make you relize you have to make good, and stop being angry at someone before its to late.*

" I'm glad your taking care of yourself."

*Misty looks down for a moment before looking back up again and searching Carson's eyes. Dispite the pain, and the hurt that was still there a small spark twinkled and Misty couldnt help but smile. She wanted Carson to be ok, she wanted him to be happy in a healthy way.*

"Breakfest sounds good, as long as your cooking it. I guess I'll see you soon than."

*With that Misty turns and heads back to Kyle. She had made the first step in moving on from the past.

Giving a nod to Kyle and a smile she signls she is read to go now.*

*Katie sits as the rain still falls, her tear mixed in so it was hard to tell if it was the rain or not that wet her face. Feeling a drawing emotion, almost as if a pulse Katie knows before Jason even speeks he was close behind her.

As Kate feels Jason's emotion comfort she soaks it in like a spunge not even sure if she herself wanted it, but she took it in anyways. With something like this Katie wasnt sure what to do or how to act. She felt alone, she felt sad, and she didnt know how to relay it.

As Jason takes a knee next to Katie she finally turns her head to look at him, the rain causing her to squint her eyes to keep it out. Though feeling alone, it was nice having someone next to her that new how she was feeling without her having to try and explain. Katie really didnt want to be close to anyone at the moment, but she didnt want to feel this alone eather. Finally she musters the strangth to reply to Jason.

Please don't go.

Katie's hand reachs out and lays gently on Jason's leg as she rests her head on it.

Just for a little while longer I want to sit here. Just a little longer.

Katie's tears had stoped for now, and her heart still ached. She wasn't sure how to move on from here or what to do. So many things ran through Katie's mind not langing on one. but trying her best Katie keeps them underwrap as to not drive anyone crazy. Just leaning on Jason taking in his comfort Katie tryed to feel better.

A little while longer had passed and Katie lifted her head from Jason. It was starting to get even colder now and though Katie didnt want to leave she new she should. Giving Jason's leg a pat she starts to stand.

I'm ready to go now.

Even Katie's mentil messages seemed to lack the excitment and lift they always showed and she new it but she just didn't feel like being excited at the moment.

Leaning back down again Katie takes the small flower she had been holding and lays it ontop of the fresh dirt. Heaving a heavy sigh a few more tears spring forth.*

"Rest in peace Hun. I won't forget you."

*Turning and giving a small nod to Jason, Katie lets him know she is ready.*

Your choice

Carson sees Misty approach, and for a moment, thinks that there must be someone nearby that she's aiming for, and almost steps out of the way. But as she speaks to him, he realizes that he was her destination.

Caught off guard, it takes a moment for anything to register, and she's almost ready to leave again. He fumbles for the right words to say.

"I...I thought I should come." He gives a little shrug. "It was the best I could do…not much a bloke can do, who’s broke, living in the back of a restaurant." It was meant to be a joke, but he knows how pathetic it must sound, and makes him feel all the more awkward.

"...But at least Herb's keeping me out of trouble." Another bad choice of a comment. Someone like him really did need someone to keep him out of trouble. He gives a little sigh, his eyes traveling to the ground.

Taking a deep breath, he looks back up again, regaining his composure. "Yeah...I'll take care of myself. For once...I will." He searches Misty's eyes for a moment, in the background, seeing Kyle's figure. "Take care of yourself too, huh? You guys come in for breakfast sometime...it's been kinda quiet in the mornings."


As Jason nears his truck, he reaches for the door handle, but turns around once more. His eyes catch sight of Katie, sending another lurch to his heart. Why he felt so awkward, he didn’t know. He just didn’t know how to offer any kind of comfort, and honestly, didn’t even know if Katie really wanted it anyway. He didn’t know if she’d rather grieve alone or with someone else.

Words had been few between them since the accident. Silent communication had been nothing. Neither had shut out the other, but it was close to it. Both hurting, it was hard to know what to say or when to say it. And on top of all that, Jason was still dealing with buried emotions that were in such turmoil now that it almost hurt to continue keeping them locked away. The current situation just compounded his own confusion with what he was feeling… he just wanted it to all be right again. Why did things have to be so hard?

Giving a sigh, Jason opens his door and puts a foot inside. But he just couldn’t do it. Groaning at himself, he shuts the door again. Stuffing his keys back in his pocket, he turns around and heads back to the gravesite.

He bends his head against the rain and approaches Katie slowly from behind. Standing behind her for a moment, he knows he doesn’t have to announce his presence.

A gentle package of comforting emotions is offered, whether wanted or not, and left to drift, its purpose to be felt as an arm around a shoulder.

Finally Jason moves beside Katie and goes to one knee next to her, following her gaze to the grave. I’ll leave if you want me to… but I’m here for as long as you want, too.

Time

*Continuing to watch TV as Cindy drifted to sleep in his arms Wes mind was lost in though. Sometimes when something like this happened it really proved how fragile life can be and reminded those that no hour should be taken for granted because you never know when there will be no tomorrow.

As the show ends Wes looks down at his sleeping wife brushing a strand of hair from her face. Giving a smile Wes shuts off the tv and shift slightly. Taking Cindy in his arms he lifts her from the couch and carrys her to the bedroom. Laying her down gently Wes pulls the blankets up and over Cindy leaning down to give her a kiss on the forhead.

Exiting the bedroom again Wes makes his way down the hall just a little bit and opens the door. Walking over to the crib he leans down and watchs Kaylee sleep for a moment running his hand over the small baby's head as she slept. After making sure Kaylee was asleep and comfortable Wes makes his way back to the bedroom sliping quietly under the covers and draping his arm over Cindy holding her tight as her drifted to sleep.*

*Seeing Wyatt's tears Aerith reaches out and puts her arms around Wyatt offering him as much comfort as she could. She new first hand how losing someone could feel.*

"Hey, It's never fair when we lose someone, sometimes its unexspected, but God had his reasons. He new it was Scott's time to come home for one reason or another. Even if it is hard don't lose faith that this was part of a bigger plan."

*Aerith sits with Wyatt as long as he needs offering as much comfort as she could. Her heart went out for Wyatt, Scott's family and anyone who was close to him. Her own heart having an ach in it.*

*Pulling the blankets up under her chin Katie lets out a tired sigh. The tears still made there presence known but for now they had slowed down. Wrapping her arm around Domino who was snuggled in next to her Katie gives her a kiss on the head and snuggles her face into Domino's fer keeping her other arm close to her face where she could feel Scott sweatshirt on her skin. Minutes seem like hours as Katie stairs into the dark, and memories, voices, faces flow through her mind till finally she drifts off to sleep.*

*As Jamie is lifted up off the coutch she wraps her arms around Con's neck letting out a tired waking sound before laying her head on his shoulder. Once placed into bed Jamie turns to face Con now as she is awake. Running a hand down Con's face she gives just a tiny smile though her own heart hurt.*

"I love you Con."

*Snugging close to Con Jamie closes her eyes again trying to clear her mind once more to sleep. But memories filled once more as sleep would probely not come soon tonight.*

And so it goes once again that time seems to pass just as it always does, but to those who had to face each day without there friend now it seemed to just move slow. Than finally the dreaded day comes, and what you thought maybe was a dream is confermed as reality...and so life for some goes on.

*As the others start to move away from the group Katie stays put. The tears from her eyes giving wormth to her face through the cold air. Katie didn't want to move, she didnt want to get up, she didn't want to do anything but sit there. Though the last week She had been dealing with Scott's death slowly the depression she was experinsing lingered and held on.

Most of her time was spent at Scott's empty house with Domino. Katie had even braught some of her things from Laura's. Some might say she was only harming herself and torchering herself, but for Katie she just wanted to be close to Scott again and this was the only way how.

Still sitting on the ground the rain starts to gently fall but it didnt faze Katie one bit. For now, this was where she would say as she said her own goodbye to someone who had ment so much.*

*Sapphire starts to slowly walk away from the cemeitary with her parents on eather side. Though her eyes didn't so many tears, her heart was drownding in them. She would miss her twin, but some comfort was found in the fact that she would see Scott again one day.*

*Misty slowly makes her way back with Kyle. Her heart was heavy and hurt. Looking and seeing Carson Misty is stuned for a moment. Giving Kyle arm a pat for a moment she lets him knwo she will be right back.

Slowly making her way over to Carson Misty trys to offer a smile though her eyes prove this was hard for her in more than one way.*

"Hey, I think it was nice of you to come Carson."

*Not sure what alse to say Misty offers a small smile again.*

"Take car of yourself."