For Scott

Carson is thankful that Herb lets the rest of his story drop for now. He felt stupid, but for not it was just best he say nothing. Maybe the situation would solve itself. Until then, he had to be more careful about coming late, and had to watch what he said better. Otherwise he was looking at punishment, and a lost life.

Receiving Herb’s compliment, he can’t help the smile that creases his lips. “Thanks…” He looks back at the dough. It was hard to believe where he was today…he never would have guessed he’d be working at a little Italian restaurant…let alone enjoying it. But despite his natural urge for excitement and action… he was getting used to this, and a part of him was starting to settle down… to the point where he could honestly say that some days he liked this. He’d always been able to cook a good steak, but being able to make the food served here… it felt like a nice accomplishment. And that was something he wasn’t used to.

Turning back to his work, he changes subjects. “Dani might have found an apartment just about five blocks from here…it’s got two bedrooms, so she’s invited me to stay with her, so long as I help out as much as I can.” Carson shrugs. “I was thinking about it…but…if I do… would you still be around to watch my paychecks?”


Jason tosses a paper airplane into the trashcan.

Yeah… I feel the same. There’s no way I’d let this go, even if I thought I was going to lose my job. I just…I’m mad, Katie. I don’t understand Austin…or Carter… Half of me wants to go barging in to find Scott, and half of me wants to confront the top dogs instead. I’m their grandson for crying out loud, so it’s like I feel partially responsible or something.

He sighs deeply and shakes his head, rising from his desk.

Guess I better go home and grab my gear. See you in a while, Hero.


Time seems lethargic, yet seems to fly at the same time. TJY is tense with a strange atmosphere. Those going on their mission are busy preparing. Those not going can only watch, asking questions without receiving answers.

Laura watches the movement around the office with suspicion. Asking Jason about the strange meeting and behavior only gave her a surprising cold shoulder. Not used to that, she’d withdrawn, not even daring to ask Nate, who also appeared to be in on whatever was going on. It wasn’t so strange to have undercover operations… and it wasn’t so strange to have some amount of secrecy… but this was stranger than normal. It was more than just protocol that kept the others’ mouths shut.


Rick heads to the lower corner office beneath the main floor to prep the equipment. He’d been down here plenty times before to help out Scott and Hal with communication. It felt strange to be here by himself. But he understood the necessity of it.

Turning on the computers and other devices, he prepares, meeting up with Dalton with mics and a few instructions. And the rest…was left up to the field team.


Jason tosses his duffel bag into his truck and backs out of the driveway, his nerves causing his mind to reel. This whole case had him on edge. The confusion about how to feel if Scott really was alive… The anger towards his grandfathers and superiors… The strange secrecy. It was odd…

He used to feel so much excitement on cases. He used to love the adrenaline rush. He used to go all out, rip-roaring to go. But somewhere along the way, that had changed. Now it felt less a game and more of a duty.

He’d always understood the seriousness of working at TJY… He’d been taught since high school that being here meant putting your life on the line, and fulfilling their purpose, even if it meant risking everything. But it still had held an element of almost fun. It had been fun to talk about, fun to be in training, especially at his age, and fun to be undercover and fighting the bad guys.

And now…it just felt… different. As if time had changed him, his perspectives, and his view of duties. This was more than a pastime…it was more than and adrenaline rush… it was more than something to gain prestige over. It was his life. And it was what he was made to do.


The garage felt small with Reese, Dalton, Rick, Misty, Nate, Jason, Wyatt and Katie. It was time. Five o’clock, and they were hitting the road. The office knew this team was leaving, but that was it. Susanne was under direct orders to filter all incoming calls and to not let anyone know the team was gone together. Though confused, she had readily complied.

“Alright, folks…” Reese looks at his team before opening up the garage door. “This is it. I’ll drive until I’m tired, then Wyatt will drive. We’ll take it in one sweep and should arrive to our destination by this time tomorrow night. Let’s pile in, check our mics and move out. Everyone ready?”

Jason stands straight, the brim of his ballcap hiding much of the tension on his face.

Let’s do this…for Scott.

Good Work

* As Katie hears about Austin and Carter blowing off the fact that Scott could be alive a anger suddenly flairs up inside her and for a moment become uncontrollable as her mind moves from one thing to the next.

How could they not care? How could they just blow off the fact that Scott is alive and do nothing? How could they be so heartless!

Katie's anger continues as she stairs at the ground. Than as if relizing what she was doing Katie look up and around the room like putting a lid on a boiling pot Katie shuts out her anger and trys to calm herself.*

*Nate stands listing to Reese. This sounded risky but if they did in fact end up getting Scott out it would be well worth it. Shifting a little Nate's irratation grows suddinly. Finding Scott and bring him home was well worth it, even if it did cost his job. Than like a light switch Nate irratation was gone. Looking to Katie for a moment A suddin sadness enters Nate's heart. Katie had been through so much. They all had and now there was time for more.

Standing Nate heads out of Reese office and out of TJY. He needed to have Janit watch Maggie for him, He needed to get his stuff together and head back. Would this work? It had to.*

*Giving a push off the wall Dalton exits the office a strange uncomfortable feeling washing over him but as quick as it comes its gone once again. Heading down to his office he enters and goes through a few things. If they were going to go tonight they would need to bring a few things with them and he had to set them up to make sure they worked.*

*Standing Katie finally exits Reese office. She needed to head home and take a shower and pack a few things. Exiting TJY and getting into her car Katie lets out a sigh. Where they doing the right thing? They had to be...they couldnt just let Scott there they had to go and get him out.

I don't know J. To me it feels right. I don't think I could live with myself knowing I left someone to die at the hands on the Agency. Like I said along time ago I would rather die trying, than to stand back and live knowing I did nothing.

Katie lets out a long sigh as she pulls out of the TJY parking lot and heads down the road. Everything would work out it had too.*

*Listing to Carson for a moment longer Herb searchs his face for the truth in what he said. Seeing the sensarity in his eyes for now Herb is satisfied even though he could feel there was more behind this. For now he would let it go again.*

"Ok, well if you need any help let me know. Thats what I am here for Carson. I want to help you when you need it. You just have to ask first."

*Giving a small smile Herb looks to the pizza Carson was doing up and nods.*

"Your getting pretty good at that. Keep up the good work."

The truth?

Reese shakes his head. “I don’t know how, Nate. I don’t know how anybody could have survived that explosion, and I don’t know how or why the Agency would have been involved there anyway.”

The office goes quiet for several moments as everyone is lost in their own minds, trying to adjust to the thought that Scott had not died. Mixed in with that inner turmoil though, was the desire not to hope…for even if he had not died in the explosion, there was no guarantee that he was alive now.

“I think it’s best that the family is not aware of this investigation,” Reese emphasizes. “If Scott is indeed alive, that news should be broken gently. And if he is dead, then we will need to deal with that appropriately at that time. But until then, I’d appreciate all of us respecting the sensitivity of this.”

Jason shifts in his chair.
There’s still something I don’t like…something I still don’t understand.
“You said you didn’t want me talking to Austin, or even alerting Carter. Why not?”

Reese looks down for a moment, fidgeting with a pen.

Jason quirks an eyebrow. “Reese…why?”

“It’s better if we don’t let this leak out. Now, about going to Washington, we need…”

“What are you hiding?” Jason interrupts.
I don’t like this…this isn’t like him.

Reese frowns. “Remember your place, Jason.”

“I do. I’m one of the best men you got, and you want me on this,” Jason replies flatly. “So it’s your loss if you kick me off. I want to know why we have to keep this under wraps. The family thing is understandable. But this doesn’t make any sense.”

Reese grits his teeth, glancing to the faces around him. “My own investigation was not approved.”

“So? It’s not like you asked for it. You just slinked away.”

Reese purses his lips, remaining silent again.

Jason looks around at the others to make sure he wasn’t the only one in the dark. “Reese…what is wrong? You didn’t ask permission, did you?”

“Actually, I did.” Reese finally sits straighter with a little more confidence. “And I was told not to proceed.”

“What? Who did you talk to?”

“Well, I called Austin first, just to see what he thought.”

“And you told him you though Scott might be alive?”

“Yes.”

“And what did he say?”

Reese eyes Jason, not sure if he really wants to say. He knew there was tension between grandfather and grandson anyway, and he wasn’t so sure that this was a good idea. But he believed in honesty. “He told me…that it was too risky. That…it wasn’t worth risking more lives over and…that if the Agency had Scott, that by now they would have brainwashed him and he would be on their side now…and that going and getting him would be a breach in security.”

Jason’s eyes fall to the floor as a sudden anger boils within him. It was just like Austin to say that. Cold and heartless. Austin was good…he hated the Agency as much as anyone, and his intentions were honorable… but when it came to personal feelings, or relationships, he would rather stick to protocol. “And Carter?”

Reese gives a sigh. He glances around the room again. Though this was more closely related to Jason because of blood, maybe everyone here needed to be aware of what had gone on. “I met with him after I’d talked to Austin.”

“And?”

“And Austin had already called him. Carter gave me a direct order not to go after Scott. He said it was too risky…that if sacrificing one life would save the Elite from infiltration then so be it.”

Jason can feel his face start to redden as his anger grows. His family ties had never affected his job or status here, and now he was glad of it. For once, he was glad that he’d never been close to his grandfather or great-grandfather. “How could they just throw this chance away… how could they just forget about Scott?” He lifts his face to see Reese again. “How?”

“I don’t know.” Reese is tense and rubs a hand over his face. “But this is where we stand, folks. We may get our wrists slapped for going on this mission, but I’m pretty sure all of you are in anyway. Austin’s opinion has no hold over me, but it does you, and Carter is above all of us. But…it’s a risk I’m willing to take. It was my decisions that got Scott lost to begin with. And I’ll risk my life to get him back.”

Jason swallows hard, trying to put a cap on his emotions so he didn’t bother anything or Katie. “Agreed. I’m in.”

“I figured.” Reese looks around the room. He knew he didn’t have to ask. He knew his staff was behind him. He also knew that this was shocking to all of them, and that despite the urgency, sensitivity was still necessary. “I want to leave by tonight. There is no airport where we need to go, and besides that, I don’t want to use TJY jets in case Carter gets wind too early. We’ll take a van. If we leave tonight, rest briefly along the way, we’ll get there by tomorrow evening.”

He makes eye contact with all the others in the room. “I’ll want Jason, Katie and Nate to be main agents in this once we get there. Wyatt will be backup, Dalton will be our contact middle man, and Misty, I want you there in case we need medical help.”

Rick quirks an eyebrow. “And me?”

“You’ll be our contact back here. I’d normally choose Hal, but…well, I’d just as soon it was you for this, for several reasons. In case we need medical advice you’re there and…I just prefer you for this.”

Rick shrugs. “Alright. No problem. Let me go home, tell Janet that I’ll be here, get a few things, and come back. I’ll be here before you leave.”

“Good.” Reese gives a short nod. “I want everyone to meet back in the garage at…” He looks at his watch. “…six o’clock. You’re all dismissed.”

With everyone filing back out of the office, Jason heads to his own, avoiding talking with the others for now. He’d been upset enough the way it was about this whole thing with Scott, but then to find out that his own grandfather didn’t even think it was worth the time to go and search…it made his blood boil.

Getting to his office, Jason flops down in his chair, sighing heavily. He needed to go home… grab another set of clothes… get some gear together… then get back here in time to leave. But at the moment, he was too worked up to do anything.

Trooper gives a little whine, sensing Jason’s tension, and goes to his master, setting his head down on his leg.

Jason absentmindedly scratches the dog behind the ear. “Yeah, I know… who’s going to watch you while we’re gone, hmm? Wyatt’s going with us…”

Sighing, Jason picks up his phone. There was only one other person he trusted to take care of Trooper for him.


Con flips through tv channels, not really finding anything of interest. Deciding to just let sleep take over, he shuts the television off and settles back in the couch, just to have the phone ring. “Yeah, hello?”

“Hey, Con.”

“Jason, what’s up?”

“Got a favor to ask.”

“Anything.”

“Check on Trooper for a couple days?”

Con quirks an eyebrow. “Sure. You leaving town, I’m assuming.”

“Yeah. It’s a case. Don’t let the word spread though, and if Jamie asks, just tell her it’s top secret.”

“Sounds heavy, if there’s secrecy within the department.”

“Yeah, well…yeah.” Jason sighs. “I’m sorry, I can’t talk about it, even if I want to.”

Con senses an odd strain in his friend’s voice, and a little bit of concern surfaces. “You alright?”

“I think so…I will be. I’m just…yeah. Look, I’m going to leave Trooper home, so he just needs to be fed and led out a couple times.”

Con nods, respecting Jason’s change in subject. “Sure. No problem. Do you know when you’ll be back?”

“No. You can hope it’s soon though. I’ll let you know as soon as I can, okay?”

“Fair enough. I’ll check on Trooper first thing in the morning.”

“Thanks, Con.” Jason ends the call and hangs up, leaning forward to give his dog some attention. “Behave for Conrad, eh?”

He tries to shove aside the feelings that had risen about his grandfathers. He didn’t feel right about it, he was angry with them, and there wasn’t anything he could do about it. He couldn’t even talk to Austin about it. They just weren’t that close. Austin had been there for him as a kid, and though he’d been the only male figure in his life, he hadn’t been like a father… there had been very few tender moments if any… most of the time, they were simply agents, working for TJY, and that’s as far as their relationship went. During the last year they’d grown further apart too, and now…now Jason wasn’t sure what to do with that.

What are we doing, Katie? Is this going to work? Can we really do this with just our small group? Why couldn’t everyone be in agreement over this? Isn’t it important enough?


Carson stops what he’s doing, still not looking up to see Herb. He knew he was being cornered, and he didn’t like it. Yet what was he to expect? He’d been skirting around the truth for weeks now… he’d been late to work almost every morning with no explanations, and it would be odd if Herb didn’t finally have enough of that. It was bad enough even Dani had started to question him, let alone Jess.

Carson leans on the counter for a moment before sighing, and turning around to look at his friend and employer. He takes off his hat to reveal the entire black eye. “I’m sorry that I’ve been dishonest, Herb.”

He gives a wry laugh. “Even when I tell the truth though, I get into trouble.” He shakes his head. “This did happen with a door…one that wasn’t on its hinges properly. But it wasn’t here.”

He looks down and swallows hard. “I, um…” He pauses, rolling his eyes at himself. “I’ve been helping a guy out, Herb. I didn’t say anything because…because he didn’t want people to know he needed the help and…I don’t know. I just felt a little strange about it.”

Carson grabs a towel to wipe flour off his hands, leaning back against the counter. “His name is Tim. He lives on Harper street. His house is pretty run-down, and one morning when I was jogging past, I saw him slip and fall. He’s an older guy, and so I stopped to make sure he was okay. I noticed his house could use some work, and so…” He shrugs. “I offered to help.”

Another wry grin surfaces as he rubs his knuckles that had been so badly skinned not all that long ago. “I’m not sure I realized what I was getting into, but…I said I’d help him out. He can’t afford to pay me, but I leave here about four in the morning now so I have enough time to stop at his place.”

Carson shrugs and finally looks at Herb again. “I guess…I kinda fell foolish now for keeping it a secret. I just…I don’t know. I just decided I would. Then there’s…”

His eyes shift slightly as he bites his lip, his face reddening. There was more. But he could get into trouble for that one. It wasn’t helping Tim that had spent his money lately…it was something else… but until he found a permanent solution, he wasn’t so sure he could say anything about it.

“…there’s…well I guess that’s it. So…I’m sorry. Tim’s a talker and sometimes I just can’t get away soon enough to get back here when I’m supposed to. If he knew he was making me late, he’d be mortified, so I usually don’t tell him."

It felt so silly now that Carson admitted all of this, that he'd kept it a secret. He just...he just wasn't used to helping people out like that and for some reason it had felt a little funny to him. He wasn't sure how other people would react to someone like him helping out someone else, and it just...felt...different.

Something better

*Receving orders to get Misty and Rick, Katie gives a nod and turns to leave the office. Her own mind full with so much she want sure where to start even stopping to think for a moment. Heading over to the infermary Katie knocks on the door and than enters. Seeing Misty and Rick both there she was happy for that.*

"Hey guys sorry to bother you both but Reese needs to see you for a pretty important meeting."

*Turning again Katie leaves the infermary and heads back to Rick's office.*

*Misty throws a look at Rick for a moment at the suddon intaruption. It wasnt often Katie came in called a meeting and left. Something was in the air, something was up. Standing Misty shrugs and head back into the office.*

*After everyone is gathered Katie sits in a chair not to far from Jason feeling a bit uneasy about everything and maybe a little in a hurry to get everything over with.

Katie can't help but bring a hand to her mouth to keep from laugh at Jason's comment

You better stop or I am going to give us away.

Strating again Katie trys to compose herself and listen to Reese once more. Though she can't help but looks saprised when Reese tells them to stop talking. How did he...know. Shaking her head Katie turns her attachen back to Reese.*

*Dalton stands in the back leaning aganst the wall just listing to Reese. He was being included and was glad that he was not in trouble but still he felt out of place here among these people. If Scott was still alive where did that leave him once again?*

*As Nate sits listing he can't help but straten more as he hears that Scott might be alive.*

"What...how?"

*Nate's mind races as his own heart starts to thump. Scott being alive, that....that was almost to good to be true. It wasnt the same without him, and just the thought of him being alive again was a great thing. It game hope even if Nate didnt want to get to worked up.*

*Herb studys Carson for a long moment. That was no door and for Carson to use that excuse it shocked Herb just a little. Carson had been acting strange over the last week and Herb hadent push but now maybe it was time.*

"Carson, you couldnt come up with something better than that? What really happend?"

*Herb stops what he was putting away and turns to Carson as he leans aganst the counter.*

Team

Carson looks up from where he was rolling out some pizza dough, for once...feeling just a twinge of pride for his own self. It wasn't often he felt that way...felt as though he'd done something good...or was appreciated in a workplace.

Receiving Herb's question though, Carson looks down again, his ballcap bill hiding his face. "I, um..." He shrugs. "...ran into a door."


I know...this isn't like Reese at all. I guess we gotta trust him on this one...I just don't like secrets within our own department.

Jason heads straight for the car, rolling his eyes as he sees the dogs waiting. Opening the passenger side, he looks at his drooling friend. "Alright. In the back."

Trooper heaves a sigh and turns around, fumbling and sliding, to get back into the backseat again. Domino wiggles all over with excitement of seeing Katie came back, and immediate hops in the back to sit with Trooper again.

The ride back to work is quiet. Jason's mind reels with possibilities of what's going on, but nothing seems to make sense.

Finally getting to work, he and Katie aim straight to Reese's office.


"I said give me an hour!" Reese exclaims as they enter.

"I don't want to wait," Jason retorts. "We need answers and you know it."

"I need a shower." Reese shoulders past them, heading towards the hall. "In the meantime, get Wyatt and Dalton. I want all of you. Oh...and I want Misty too. Come to think of it..." He walks backward, still talking. "Call in Rick. Oh, and Nate."

Jason's eyes widen. "You only got a few left! Anyone else?"

"Nope. And keep it that way."

Jason throws up his arms. "Alright, Katie, you go get Misty and Rick, I'll grab the other guys."

Twenty minutes later, the small group is crammed into Reese's office. He's back and cleaned up, ready to start talking. Jason sits close to the desk, while Rick hangs back a ways, just listening. They all knew past history and what had happened in that deadly case with the explosion.

“To start off, I want you all to know that I’m sorry for leaving you in the dark, or for leading you on that I didn’t care about this. I knew as soon as there was hope of Scott being alive, that if word got out, we could have a real mess on our hands. So I decided to let you be and let you investigate under wraps. The secret would be better kept if you were trying to keep it from me.”

Rick's eyes widen. Scott being alive? This was news to him. He glances at the others, wondering who else had gotten wind of this theory.

Wyatt isn't too awful surprised. He'd heard a few murmurs among Katie, Jason and Dalton, and though he hadn't interfered, he'd had a few questions. It had been too much to hope for that Scott might be alive. Was it a real possibility? His pulse quickens, but he tries to remain professional for the sake of this case.

Reese manages to quirk a wry grin. “All I had to do was wait. I did my own looking around here after hours and…I took that location radius from Dalton.” He pauses, looking at the newest team member with apology. “I’m sorry I invaded your office. Yell at me later if you want. For now though, I’m impressed with what was found, and the speed in which it was done. I know you care about your friend, and heaven knows I feel responsible for what happened.”

He pauses, a bit of emotion entering his voice. “If there’s anyone besides his family that wishes he hadn’t been on that assignment, it’s me.”

Gathering his thoughts, he continues. “After receiving the radius, I called Luke Trahern, just to find out that my best man had already called him.”

Jason crosses his arms. Ha…beat him to that one. That’s one for the charts.

“Luke was more than helpful, and though a bit confused as to why two people called him for the same reason and neither wanted the other to know… he was cooperative.” Reese grins a little. “I got the same information that Jason did… there was a little town up north that was pretty much abandoned, but a lot of action seemed to take place that no cop ever wanted to get involved in. Luke got wind of it and knew himself that it could be Agency-related, but at that time, he was trying to avoid them. So he simply kept his ears open. I took that lead and a couple days ago, I went up there myself. I found an old business building that had been remodeled and was posing as publishing company. Dead center of a ghost town, no one bothered to check them out, except lost “tourists” like me. It was too fishy. So I camped out.”

Wyatt rolls his eyes. “Great. So you skip down without word, and let everyone worry half to death.”

“What? You think your father can’t handle himself?”

Wyatt just smirks.

Reese goes to the white board on his wall and starts to scribble out a map. “It’s a simple town… I laid low here in these woods and kept an eye out. Seemed to be normal business, until I heard target practice. Later I saw some pretty expensive vehicles. It just didn’t feel right. I went to the next town over, found a young woman who said that a while back, she remembered a couple rough looking guys come into the diner. They had someone else with them who looked in pretty bad shape and…he fits Scott’s description.”

I knew it…it’s got to be him.
Jason’s eyes glance to Katie.
I don’t know how, but…this has got to be it.

Reese looks at them. “Quit talking.”

Jason snaps back to attention, surprise flashing in his eyes.

Reese gives a short nod. “I talked to the local authorities. Seemed like the upper guys of this “publishing company” were always on the verge of getting caught in illegal activity, but were always just far enough ahead to escape. With all these pieces, I can’t help but believe it’s the Agency.”

Wyatt shakes his head. “But who says that if they did get Scott, that he’s there?”

“No one. But that’s the only location even close to anything that we’ve got. I did get a hold on some blueprints of the building.”

Jason’s eyebrows raise and he lets out a low whistle. “You’ve been busy.”

“What? You think all I do ever is sit on my bottom?” Reese throws him a look before moving to his desk and pulling out a copy of blueprints. “There’s an interesting basement to this place. It’s not your norm. It’s got storage cells, full concrete, and tunnels that run all the way under the building. It would be a perfect hideaway. And…”

Reese moves to retrieve his last puzzle piece from his desk. “I got close one night and found this near the building.”

Jason squints at the object in Reese’s hand. “A watch?”

Reese turns it over to reveal a broken wristband and a shattered face. But it was recognizable.

Wyatt sucks in his breath. “That’s Scott’s.”

“Precisely. And I want a team to head to Washington asap. I want Rick here to be our contact, and I want the rest of you to come with.”



“Aw come on. Just leave him alone.”

“What is with you, Riggs?” Donovan scowls at his partner. “I’s just trying to get him to eat.” He sneers down at Scott. “He doesn’t seem to want his dinner.”

His foot kicks the bowl of rice to send it flying across the room and bouncing across the wall, sending the contents everywhere. The squeal of happy rats comes from the other corner.

Scott pulls himself into a tighter ball, back into the shadows.

Riggs rolls his eyes. “Nice.”

“Well I haven’t seen you keeping Mr. Johnson company.”

“I was on level three, trying to talk some sense into the Boss and get permission to put this dimwit out of his misery.”

Donovan laughs. “Naw, we’re not through here yet. We may not be putting Mr. Johnson back behind a computer, but it doesn’t mean we can’t have any fun. I was just ready to remind him about his friends’ untimely death.”

Scott’s fingernails dig into his own palms. He shakes in the cold while his skin feels as though he’s burning up. A tear comes to the surface, stinging his eye. He didn’t want to hear this again. He’d been told enough. About how after the house blew up, the thugs had shot up the TJY van. There had been no survivors. Scott knew who’d been in that van… Jason… Reese… Katie… Nate. The Agency had kept him so he could get even more out of the TJY system…but the others… murdered in cold blood.

He’d wept, he’d begged, he’d prayed, he’d hoped… but nothing would remove this torture. Not the physical pain nor the mental anguish.

“They didn’t suffer long,” Donovan smirks. “That we know of, anyway. It didn’t take long to fill that van full of bullets.”

Scott quivers, another tear running down his face.

Donovan laughs again. “Ohh, the poor little boy is crying… How’d you ever team up with that stupid TJY anyway? You haven’t got the guts of a mouse.”

Riggs rolls his eyes. “Do you like wasting your breath on this trash? He’s taking up room. We’ll need this cell in another week.” He unholsters his handgun and aims it down at Scott’s form. “Just give me the honors.”

“Patience, my friend, patience.”

“I’ve been waiting over six dang weeks!”

“So wait a little longer!” Donovan shakes his head. “Another few days of him refusing food like this and he’ll take care of himself.”

“If he don’t keel over from bein’ sick.”

“What, you want to help him?”

“A healthy moving target runs better. Makes for more fun.”

“Oh, come on.” Donovan heads for the door. “He’s not your target. Boss’ orders.”

The door slams shut again, the room silent, except for the inner sobs of Scott. He’d lost everything and couldn’t even mourn. It was wretched to be alive.

excited or scaired

*Katie looks up at Reese and for a moment is a bit saprised. She can't remember a time when she ever saw him like this. Not to mention he new what they were doing down to the T. Looking to Jason and than back to Katie she listens intently.

I'm not sure if I should be excited or scaired by this whole thing. This is not like Reese at all.

Continuing to listen Katie mind moves a million miles a minute. Scott was alive last Reese new, he was....it was almost mind blowing to think about it and to think of what they might be doing to poor Scott was even worse. It was enough to make one go mad.

After Reese leave Katie just looks at Jason for a moment not sure what to make of everything. But finally as Jason stands Katie follows grabing her hoodie and her purse. If Scott was alive they had to find him. They had to bring him home no matter what it took.

I'm right behind you J.

Katie was ready to face anything, she was a part time bodyguard even if it wasnt officle. She couldnt sit back and just do nothing.*

*Herb enters the back door of the restront with bags in his hands. Now that Carson worked the kitchen and new what he was doing it made it easyer for Herb to get the stuff done that he needed too. Coming in late today because of poicking up stuff for around the restront Herb had no worrys that things were less than fine.

Setting the stuff down on the counter Herb starts to unpack everything and put it where it belongs his back to Carson.*

"You have no idea how much this helps me out Carson knowing your here so I can do what I need to. It really is a stress releaver."

*Turning Herb goes to bring some tomatos over to Carson to make some new sause when he stops and studys Carson's face and his black eye for a moment. A wave of worry hits him as he dosnt know what happend and wants to make sure Carson is ok.*

"What happend to your eye Carson? Are you ok?"

*Herb sets the tomatos down and continues to unpack the other items but keeps his attachen on Carson.*

Washington

Giving Charlotte a smile as they walk to the car, a new feeling suddenly hits Bret. He'd never been close to Maria's family at all...they hadn't liked him, and they'd never interacted at all. It was nice to know that Angelica approved of him, and he actually looked forward to interacting with her, especially now that he was part of the family. It was a good feeling...a peaceful one.


Mick glances up to Rosetta and shakes his head, though isn't feeling the greatest. "No...I just took a couple pain killers half an hour ago."

He scoots BJ over to the side so they can give Rosetta room, and Mick pats the now-empty space beside him. "Sit down and let's have us some food." He nudges BJ. "And don't leave any crumbs in my bed," he teases.

Settling back between his wife and adopted son, Mick gives a contented sigh. Though physically in a bit of pain, he couldn't be happier.

Enjoying the light meal while watching BJ's movie, they kid around with each other, just enjoying their time. And though Mick desperately wanted to be up and about, being tired was simply inevitable. Soon, he's laid his head back and is sound asleep, one arm around BJ, the other hand in Rosetta's.


"Now you two behave yourselves." Jason pauses outside of Katie's car as they get to Mom and Pop's, staring in at the dogs. Both sit in the back looking up very innocently.

Jason rolls his eyes and heads for the restaurant, holding the door open for Katie.

Once their owners have disappeared, the dogs root around in the backseat for a few minutes, Domino going playfully after one of Trooper's legs, while the enormous dog tries to play without squishing his tiny playmate. The car shakes as the tussle continues until Domino finally jumps into the front seat , putting her paws up on the steering wheel, just high enough that she could peek over to keep an eye on the restaurant door.

Not to be outdone, Trooper somehow manages to crawl to the front as well, squeezing his huge frame between the seats until he's half siting, half hanging off the passenger seat, also looking out the windsheild to wait for his master. A bit of drool ends up on the dashboard, Trooper knowing good and well what kind of goodies were inside that building.

"...so we still think it might be in Washington..." Jason sets his sub down and wipes his mouth, pointing to some of the papers he's got spread out on the table. "We just don't know where at all, or even if there's any Agency activity up there."

He takes a sip of his pop, still thinking. "And even then..." He sighs. "It's such a long shot that all of these clues are even connected. We could be barking up an entirely wrong tree."

The bell on the door of Mom and Pop’s rings, a lone figure entering the warm restaurant. His face was slightly flushed, his eyes filled with tension. It looked as though he’d slept in his clothes for at least one night if not more and he was just a bit grimy. For those who knew him, it was quite out of the ordinary to see him in such a state.

He scans the tables until he spots Katie and Jason. Lengthening his stride, he makes his way over to them quickly. Stopping at their table, he looks down at the open files and the papers. “Yeah, I thought so.”

Jason looks up, his eyes widening. “Reese. What on earth.”

Reese cocks his head. “If you guys are finished here, we’re taking a trip to Washington state.”

Jason looks at Katie, then back to his boss.
What on earth is going on? Where has he been? Why does he act like he knows what we’re doing?
“What’s going on?”

“I don’t think I need to tell you to that. Or Dalton, for that matter.”

He knows.
“Wha…how…”

The corner of Reese’s mouth upturns slightly and he looks at Katie, then back to Jason. “You think I didn’t know you two well enough to know you wouldn’t let the subject drop? I just couldn’t make it official to avoid an uproar, and I didn’t want you two snooping around my own investigation.” His gaze drifts past Katie, softening a little. “In case we were wrong.”

He stands a little straighter. “Now. I’ve been hiding out for two days. I’m tired, I stink, and I’m hungry. And I can’t talk here. Meet me back at TJY in an hour. I have a location.”

“A location, but…how…”

Reese quirks an eyebrow. “Not here, Jase. I had to be sure before I involved you guys. And I am now. He’s alive. At least…he was. No promises now, but…I won’t stand for doing nothing.”

“But you…”

“You don’t want to let our comrade down, do you?” Reese pats Jason’s shoulder. “An hour. Be ready to leave and tell no one. Not even friends, and under no circumstances are you to breathe a word to Sapphire or other family. I don’t know what we’ll find... And you're both under direct orders not to talk to Austin or be in contact with Carter about this.” He turns, giving a quick wave to Mabel, then is so fast out of the restaurant that Jason has no time for further questioning.

Dumfounded, Jason stares after him, then looks back at Katie. “That dog…he knew we’d investigate, and I’d bet you anything, somehow he used what we found. Otherwise he wouldn’t have been in Washington. He must have pinpointed a location…he had to have talked to somebody to get any facts…”
If it were any other time, I’d laugh. He had us and our actions pegged. That’s the last time I underestimate him. The only thing that worries me is why he's hiding this from Austin and Carter.

“Come on.” Jason closes his folder and downs the rest of his drink. “I’m not waiting around here.”

Tossing payment on the table, he dons his jacket, grabs his keys and makes sure Katie’s with him to exit Mom and Pop’s quickly.


Carson glances up from the kitchen in time to see Reese leave, then Jason and Katie hurry after him. A strange pang hits him… almost a wish that he was involved and knew what was going on. He missed the action.

Looking down, he goes back to his work. It was a fairly quiet day today, but he wished it were busier. One of these times Herb would corner him and ask him about the black eye he was sporting this morning, and he really didn't want to have to try and explain that one. Dani had left before he'd gotten back from his jog that morning, so she hadn't seen it yet, but he would be seeing Jess later, and was sure to get questioned one way or the other.



“You fool!”

The back of a hand comes flying full force into Scott’s face, knocking him out of his chair and onto the floor. Scott’s energy spent, he can’t even fend off the kicks that come to his back and ribs. All he can do is pull himself into a ball and hope that the attack would stop.

Donovan grabs the syringe off the table. “I might not be able to kill you, but for that stunt you just pulled, you’re going to pay.”

“Donovan!” Riggs comes into the room. “What happened?”

“This worm tried to send a message to his friends,” Donovan scoffs. “I cut off the power soon enough that no one will be the wiser – they think he’s dead anyway. But he won’t be back in this room again. We’re through.”

“But the boss said to use him.”

Donovan gestures to Scott. “We did. He gave us more than enough information, but now he screwed up. So it’s over for him. He’ll not be back here again. His cell is now his home.”

Riggs crosses his arms and scowls. “I told you I shoulda killed him when I wanted to. Now we have to go to the expense of keeping him alive even when he’s doing us no good.”

Donovan reaches down and sticks the needle into Scott’s arm. “He’s just another addition to our little zoo. The boss likes it that way, you know that.” Standing up, he tosses the empty syringe into the trash. “I’ll let you get him out of here.”

“Oh, thanks.”

“Do it!”

Riggs smirks with displeasure. “Whatever.”

Scott is already starting to writhe in pain, unable to move on his own, unable to even think straight.

Riggs simply grabs his arms and literally drags him out of the lab and down the hall to the stairs that would take them to the underground cell.

Scott cries out as a last ditch effort, but it’s no use. The next thing he knows is the darkness of the cold cell once more as a soothing wet cloth is put to his forehead. The floor was hard…he knew where he was… he also knew the hand that touched him. “I… can’t… too… hurts…” His words get tangled as his mind tries to get past the pain and make some sense.

“Just lie here,” the rough voice instructs. “Quit fighting and they’ll leave you alone. They’re not going to use you anymore, and if you act sedated, there’s no more fun in giving you anymore of that stuff.”

Scott rolls over onto his side, balling up again, a whimper coming to his lips. If no one could come, he just wanted to die. It would be easier that way. He just wanted this to end. Hope had already died. “But…”

“No buts.” The ally doesn’t retreat, but puts the cloth to Scott’s forehead again. “Just…rest.” He sighs. “They’re not going to kill you, so the only way they won’t hurt you anymore is if you just lay low and don’t fight. Can you do that?”

Scott didn’t have the energy to fend off a fly, let alone Donovan anymore. Taking a deep breath, he shudders before his eyes roll back in his head, unconsciousness taking over again.

Approve

*Angelica gives Bret a smile back knowing he is trying. She might not have agree with how they got married and that it was so fast but she couldnt do anything about it and her sister was her own woman. After all even if Angelica didnt addmit it she did like Bret.*

"Breakfest sounds perfect to me."

*Coming back over to Charlotte she gives her arm a gentil pat.*

"You have a keep. I approve."

*Charlotte beams as she receved her sisters words and links her arm with Bret's her face shinning like no tomarrow.*

"I plan on keeping him for a long time. Thank you Angelica."

*Putting her arm around Jason's wast Katie toss him a smile. It was good to see him happy again, a smile on his face was a good sight.

Your such a goof.

Walking with Jason out of TJY and Trooper close behind on one side, Domino trots proudly on the other. Finally decieding to take Katie's car they hope in and are finally on there way to Mom and Pop's.*

*BJ Smiles up at Mick again and hold up a movie with a bear on the front in overalls.*

"It's called Patttttinton's missing button."

*Getting distracted for a moment BJ just looks at the case and studys it as if looking for something. Than holding it up her offers it to Rosetta to pop in.*

*Giving a smile Rosetta takes the movies and goes to the VCR putting it in. Coming back around to Mick and seeing him wince a little in pain her own hand movies to his.*

"Are you ok? Need me to get you anything?"

Spark

Bret hesitates a moment before leaving Charlotte behind, but relents, respecting Angelica’s wish to speak to him. Following her to the small garden, he remains standing, still cautious, but willing to listen.

As she speaks, Bret realizes what she’s getting at, and his defenses start to lower. It wasn’t really a feeling of guilt, but more of a realization that he’d misjudged Angelica too.

When she’s finished and walking away, Bret stops her. “Angelica…” He catches up to her and cocks his head, giving her a warm smile. “Thanks. I will keep your sister safe…and… I guess I’m sorry too. How about we start over by treating you to lunch?”


Jason gives Katie a wry grin. “Last I heard, Angelica didn’t know where he went either. I’m right mad at him – he doesn’t like it when we take a vacation, but he can just go off any time he likes.”

And no, of course I didn’t think you’d let me get away without taking you with me. I just wanted to see that spark.

Jason throws her a wink as he grabs his jacket. “Come on, Hero. It’s pizza time.”

Trooper gets up from the floor, ready to go with them, and Jason smirks. “It’s the lunch hour, bub. I can’t take you in when there’s a crowd, you know that. Do you really want to wait in the truck?”

Trooper wags his tail.

“Alright. Come on.”

The dog falls in obediently behind Jason’s heel.

Jason rolls his eyes and slings an arm around Katie’s shoulder. “Looks like neither one of you will let me go alone.” He kisses the top of her head. “But I think I like it that way.”

Heading out the door, he puts on the brakes. “Oh, almost forgot.” He reaches to grab a folder on his table. “Some stuff we can go over in case we get bored.” It was more stuff he was trying to put together about Scott… Not something he could exactly spread out with Katie here at TJY.


As BJ enters the room, a smile spreads on Mick’s face and he gives a little chuckle. “Ohhh, thank you!” He accepts the coffee and takes a sip to let BJ know that it’s quite alright even if it isn’t all that hot.

Joined on the bed, Mick moves his arm to wrap around BJ. “Mmm, you’re such a big help. Before long, I’ll be out of a job you’ll be doing everything so well!”

Looking up at Rosetta, he returns her kiss, laying a hand to the side of her face. “Thank you,” he whispers.

Hearing BJ’s squeal, Mick can’t help his laughter, his eyes twinkling with humor. “What? You saw me kiss a horse and you didn’t care!” He ruffles t he boy’s hair. “Won’t be long ‘til you’ll be kissing a girl.” His smile softens, along with his tone. “But you got plenty of time…”

Settling back, he keeps himself from showing how sore he is. “Okay, Beej, what movie you got?”



“He’s not any use to us anymore. He didn’t give us what we wanted. I say we waste him.”

Donovan rolls his eyes at his hasty friend. “Riggs, cut it out. You know the boss said not to kill him off. Just keep him…” A sadistic grin forms. “…however we want or need to.”

Riggs scoffs. “Why?” He gestures to the corner of the concrete room to the huddled form. “What’s the point?”

“Pain,” Donovan reminds. He takes a syringe out of his back pocket. “Remember? We pressure long enough, I’ll bet he’ll finally break.”

“After all this?” Riggs shakes his head. “He’s already off his rocker. We lost him a week ago when you and Kirk went too far.”

Donovan chuckles. “Too far? He lived.”

“Yeah, but he lost his mind. What’s there to gain now?”

“You have no sense of torture.” Donovan checks the syringe, tapping out the air bubbles. “A little more prompting, and he might just gain back that sanity of his. I’ve had tougher cases.”

“But he’s not like the others,” Riggs argues. “He’s weak. He wasn’t trained for the field – that much was obvious. The guy couldn’t hit the broad side of a barn with his fist if he tried, let alone stand up under what you and Kirk give him.”

Donovan sighs and turns to his friend again, the annoyance showing. “Look, I’m in charge here. Maybe you ought to just watch and learn. Besides…whether he’s off his rocker or not, watching this is fun.”

Riggs rolls his eyes and folds his arms across his broad chest. “Great. My kind of fun would be putting a bullet to his head.”

“That’s because you’re too hasty, and that’s why you’re still in the position of peon, taking orders from me.” Donovan gives a sinister chuckle and turns to his task again. “Alright, Johnson… you going back to the computers today? Or is it going to be another nice round of your favorite…encouragement?”

Scott is curled up on the floor, his arms wrapped around his knees as he lies on his side, rocking slightly. He shakes from both cold and fear, though his words are muffled and garbled, not understood. His eyes are wide as he stares at Donovan approaching, and he pulls himself into an even tighter ball, scrunching his eyes shut.

“Mm…” Donovan shakes his head. “You don’t want to help us today either?” He squats down next to Scott’s trembling form. “But you’re the only hacker that can get us what we need from TJY…and if you help us…this will all be over. You’ll get a hot meal…some clean clothes…even a nice soft bed to sleep on.”

Oh how enticing those words were. Scott’s dreams were full of his longing for a warm blanket…a meal other than rice and water… even just a little soft pillow would be heaven.

Donovan gives Scott’s leg a nudge. “Hey. I know you hear me. Come on, Johnson. What’ll it be?”

Scott scoots further into the corner his eyes still held tightly shut.

Donovan sighs. “Alright then…too bad.”

Scott feels Donovan’s hand on his arm, and he shoots up to back as far into the corner as he can. “No!”

“Oh, yes.”

Scott’s veins still burned from the incredible pain that those shots induced. It was pain that could make any man turn on his own if just for a moment of relief. His voice drops to a whimper. “Please…”

Donovan pauses, needle in hand. “Do you want to help us?”

Scott swallows hard, tears filling his eyes as he finally nods.

“Well okay then.” Donovan caps the needle and stands back up, throwing a haughty glance to Riggs. “See? After a little persuasion, even cases like this will come around. Come get him up and bring him to the lab. He’s got work to do.”

Cunado

*Charlotte smiles wrapping her arms around Bret. She had been worryed for a while that just maybe they wouldnt be able to clear Bret's name. Why she had put doubt in her sister she wasnt sure but in the end she didn't let them down. If ever asked who the best Lawyer in the world was Charlotte would never hesatate to say her sister was.*

"I'm so happy we can start living again now Bret. I love you!"

*Leaning up Charlotte gives Bret a kiss how happy she was. A whole new chapter was now starting in life. One that would be full of fun and full of adventure. Charlotte new there would never be a dul moment now.*

*Now that everything was over and Bret was clear there was time to talk and Angelica new she had to, before to many more assumptions where made.

Giving a smile she taps Bret on the shoulder and motions for him to follow here. Leading him around some tables and out the door Angelica makes her way to the small garden before stopping and sitting down on the bench. Turning towards Bret she leaves it open to him weather he sits or stands.

Letting out a sigh Angelica is quiet for a moment as she runs words and feelings through her head. She was a lawyer and exhalent with words unless it came to her own emotions and feelings. Than she felt like silly putty.

Had she been unfair to Bret and Charlotte? Maybe but it was her little sister and she had always been the one to help her when she fell. Angelica had to remember now though Charlotte was a grown woman and could make her own decisions. She wasn’t the little girl she remembered anymore.

Than there was the comment Bret had made a few days back about giving up on love. Had she really, was she scared to let someone close to her. Just letting that emotion alone out, and remembering what it felt to be cared for put a wave of fear in Angelica’s heart. The answer was simple, she had given up and she was scared that she could get hurt again. Yet that was no reason to take it out on two people who clearly were in love. Yes she had been unfair to them both and now it was time to take a step back, humble herself and right some wrongs.*

“I’ve never been good at back tracking and trying to make up for something wrong I have done so bear with me on this one. First off, I never dislike you, or hated you. From what I saw and heard you always treated my sister the way she should be. I guess I was just on edge because she has been treated so badly in the past and at first the guys were good I just didn’t want it to happen again. I guess I kind of forgot she grown up now and not the little girl I remember.”

*Angelica looks down at her hands for a moment and than back up at Bret. The confidence never leaving her eyes, but hidden behind it was something new, and something different that was not often seen in the hard eyes of this lawyer. Maybe this was her soft spot.*

“As I am sure you know Charlotte has been through so much. From abusive relationships, to drinking, to rehab it’s sad to me to think about everything what happened to her. One thing I have to say through she is a stronger person than I am. I’m happy with all she has been through she didn’t turn out like me. I think you said it best when you said I gave up on love, and am scared of it.”

*Leaning back Angelica is quit as she breaks her gaze from Bret and looks around the small flower garden. Its evident this is hard for her and something she is not use too.*

“So I guess in the end what I am trying to say is I am sorry Bret, for not giving you the chance right off the bat with my sister you deserved. You’re a good guy and I am happy you’re in love with my sister. It’s about time she hooked a good one. So…now I pass the torch off to you and it’s no longer my time to looks out for and keep my litter sister safe, it’s yours. It’s an honor to have you as my Cuñado.”

*Letting out a sigh and standing Angelica gives Bret’s shoulder a tiny pat. There was nothing else left for her to say. Slowly enjoying probably one of the last nice days they would have before the frost came she takes in a deep breath walks back to the building where the others would be waiting.*

*Opening the door on Jason's office door Katie peeks her head in and gives a smile.

You think I would really let you get away without taking me with you? Your not the only one who is stressed you know.

Katie can't help the giggle as she opens the door more and waits for Jason.*

"I need Reese as well. I have to ask him a question about this one file he wanted me to look over but he wont even answer his phone. This is not like him at all! Do you think Angelica would know anything?"

"Shhhhh....carfel how you hold that."

*The little boy beams up at Rosetta as he carrys a lukewarm cup of coffee down the hall with both hands. Rosetta close behind with a tray and some sandwhiches and a few more glasses of juice.

Coming to the bedroom door Rosetta stops BJ and whispers.*

"You remember what to say right?"

*The small boys eyes grow big as he thinks for a moment and than gives a nod entering the room. Walking over to the bed where Mick sat BJ stands on his tip toes holding the glass out to Mick.*

"It's not very hot dad because I wanted to carry it but I thought you would like it anyways."

*Rosetta can't help but shakes her head and laugh as she enters the room.*

*BJ gives a toothy grin though his front tooth was missing.*

"Always we made some shandwhiches and have a movie to watch together to keep you company. Than afterwords maybe we can play a game."

*After giving Mick his drink BJ climbs into the bed and crawls up next to Mick sitting back aganst the pillow and crossing his arms like Mick was immatating him.*

"I also helped mom with the chores for you too."

*Rosetta sets the tray down on the nightstand next to the bed and pulls the chair over to dish out the plates and drinks for everyone. Leaning down she gives Mick a kiss.*

"I love you."

*A squeel can be hurd from the small boy as he throws a pillow over his head.*

"YUCK!"

*Rosetta can't help but laugh again her eyes so full of life and joy.*

Ancy

Jeff wipes some sweat from his brow and leans against the wall, letting out a long sigh. He was glad he'd been able to help, but it had done nothing for his nerves. But Mick was okay...and that's what mattered most.

Letting Angel know he'd be in his own bunk, he wanders outside into the cold night air and just stops, staring up at the stars. God, what is your plan... where are you in all this... where are you leading us...

Jeff's breath comes out as steam as it hits the air, and he continues his slow walk to the bunk house. Change was in the wind. From which direction he came, he couldn't be sure. But it was there...somewhere.


Several hours pass before Mick groggily opens his eyes a little, trying to focus on something in the dimly-lit room. Where was he? Why was he so sore? It hurt to breathe.

He moves his hand a little, and realizes that another hand was lying in his own. Turning his head, he squints, seeing Rosetta's face. He licks his dry lips, confused, and then it all comes back to him. He'd taken a spill. Cyclone. He'd gotten hurt and... talking to Angel was the last thing he could clearly recall. Apparently he was still alive...that was a good thing. He hurt like the dickens, but if Angel wasn't in here now, that must be a good sign.

Mick tightens his grip to give Rosetta's hand a squeeze. "Guess you got me around a little longer, eh?" His voice is low and hoarse, but he manages a crooked grin. "I love you."


Jason has his key ready to turn in his truck's ignition, when he stops and grins.

Follow me to my place. I got some junk food and a stack of movies. I won't be able to sleep for a while yet anyway.

He starts his truck and pulls out of the TJY parking lot, knowing that Katie would be close behind.

And you can bring that black and white fuzzball. Trooper won't mind.


Carson sits on the edge of the restaurant booth, counting the few dollar bills he had left in his pocket. He gives a sigh and slouches. He needed to get a car... he needed to get his own place... he needed to get out from under these stupid insurance bills that he was still paying. But there was just no way he could do it right now. He was trying to save up, but with his morning detours, that wasn't working out so great either. He knew he needed to give that up...but...he just...couldn't.

Shaking his head, he sets his cash on the table and stretches out, trying to get some sleep after an evening with Dani and Jess. One day...one day he would have a handle on his life. One day...


Though the future is often feared, all must face it. Though we try to hold off the inevitable, it will come, quietly or roaring. But it will come.


Bret breathes in a lung full of fresh air. It was gray and cold out, but to him, the day was beautiful. He skips down the courthouse steps, meeting Charlotte at the bottom. Grabbing her into a hug, he swings her around before planting a kiss on her lips. "Your husband may have a record, but he's not going to be behind bars."

A smile spreads on his face, recalling the judge's words in the courtroom. He was free...and the real crooks were going to prison. "And...."

Bret spins around, seeing Angelica coming down the steps too. "...I owe it all to you. Thank you...I never would have made it in there without you, and... I don't know how I can ever repay you."

He slings an arm around Charlotte's shoulders, a huge burden feeling as though it's been lifted. His eyes remain on Angelica though. "We, um... kinda got off on the wrong foot, I know... and going through this case the last couple weeks hasn't helped things much. I...I'm honored that you're my sister-in-law, and I can only hope that me marrying your sister isn't something that a rift will be started over."


"What do you mean, you don't know?" Jason stands in Susanne's office, looking at her with a gaze of surprise and irritation. "He never just leaves without saying anything."

"I told you!" Susanne throws up her arms. "I haven't seen Reese since two days ago. He told me he was leaving the office, and that was it."

"Well I asked Wyatt and he doesn't even know!"

"I'm sorry! What do you want me to do?!"

Jason sighs and rubs his eyes. "Nothing...I'm sorry. Just...let me know if he calls." He heaves a sigh and aims back for his office.

What is going on?! Reese never takes off like this. Wyatt said his dad told him he was simply taking a couple days off. But he's left town. Something is strange. I don't like it...not one bit.

Jason gets to his office and shuts his door a little harder than necessary. Flopping down in his chair, he stares at the mess on his desk. Half of it was legit work, the other half was work he was doing on looking for Scott. He and Katie had found a few things... combined with some information from Luke during the last week, they had kind of a starting place. Though they were growing weary. Nothing substantial was showing up. And no more clues had been offered.

He glances to the clock. Lunchtime. He was tempted to skip. But with his emotions rising, he knew it would be dangerous to miss a meal.

Jason pulls out a desk drawer to see a can of soup and half a bag of chips. Nothing he really wanted.

Pizza. I want pizza. And I want to get away from here. Forever. But for an hour will have to do. You coming with me, or are you going to let me be miserable at Mom and Pop's alone?


Mick sits up in bed, staring at the droning tv in the bedroom. At least today he didn't have to be at Angel's anymore, but not being able to work, and being stuck in bed was driving him bananas. Hearing BJ at the other end of the house made him wish he could get up and play with him. Hearing the horses outside made him wish he could get out of here and go do something productive. But it had only been a week... Another three days in bed, then another two weeks after that before he could start any minimal work.

He sighs, and winces a little. This tv show was stupid. But nothing else was on. If only he had something to keep his brain busy if he couldn't be up and about.

Legacy

*Jess gives a small nod to Carson and smiles.*

"Ok sounds good. I look forward to seeing you both a little later tonight than."

*Standing Jess clears the plates and puts away some of the left overs before joining Carson at the door to see him off. Leaning in Jess gives him a quick kiss and smiles.*

"Thank you for the company."

*Angel gives a nod to Mick and leaves the room with great hast getting a hold of Wendy, than Rosetta and last Jeff. Once everyone is gathered and BJ is taken care of Angel starts the sergary with great hast. Jeff works with Angel as Rosetta sits and waits. Considering the delicasey of the situation Angel though it best she sat this on out.*

Sometimes when the people we love are in parel, weather we have controll over what happens, or we don't....

*Katie sits at her desk most of TJY quiet. She should be home, but she had to know, she had to find more information that said if Scott was alive or not. Doing her own file searching and doing her own computer searching Katie new she didn't quite know what she was doing but she had to try. There was no way she could give up, if Scott was alive he needed them.*

...a minute could seem like hours, and hours like days, days like weeks, and weeks like years. Time slipping through our fingers, as the click ticks and we race to do what we can...

"Jeff, give me that clamp state the artery isn't cooperating. Come on...hurry."

*Angel continues the work racing the clock. A few things had gone wrong but nothing to major. Still, time we of thee essence and to much time gone by could be fatil.*

...time, why was it our enemy, why was it our friend. The moment time was dreaded but soon, soon the sky would open up and time, time would no longer matter as those who were loved were together again, as life moved on and our friends stood by our side...

*Seeing the light on in Katie's cubicle still Dalton slowly make his way over not wanting to startle her. Looking in Katie's head was rested on the desk as a small dog was cuddled at her feet. Paper works spread out and her computer beeping. Fast asleep one could tell Katie was dreaming.

Gently Dalton enters and shuts the computer off before gives Katie a small shake.*

"Kit Kat, its almost 10. You should head home."

*Lifting her head with a jerk and a start Katie looks up at Dalton and than to her computer that was now shut off. She must of fallen a sleep. Grabing some paper work and a pen Katie continues to stair at the paper.*

"I can't, I'm not tired. I have to do this."

*Looking down on Katie with consern in his eyes he shakes his head before laying a hand on her shoulder. Dalton didn't offten show compation, and wasnt always friendly but something about Katie, just something about her cut through his hard shell and touch the small softness in his heart.*

"Your not going to be any good to anyone Kit Kat like this. You are tired. Go home, get some sleep, come back and work on it more tomarrow."

*Giving a sleepy nod Katie puts the papers in her desk and lets out a tired sigh standing.*

"I guess your right Hulk. Thanks."

*Grabbing her bag and picking up Domino along with her faverote chew toy Katie makes her way out of TJY.

Hey J, you up for come company?*

*Splashing water on her face and than drying it Angel gives a nod to Jeff.*

"Thanks for the help. Sometimes I would wonder what I would do without your help."

*Giving a smile Angel makes her way out from the back and to where Rosetta was sitting. Giving her friend a soft pat on the shoulder she nods.*

"Mick is going to be ok Rosetta. We had a few complacations, and some setbacks but we worked through it and he is resting now. If you want to go in and see him you can but he probley will be out of it from the anistedic for a little bit."

*Rosetta stands and gives Angel a hug. She was so thankful for her friends help and for her presence here at the ranch. Over the years there had been so many misshapes and things that had happend that Rosetta wasnt sure if any of them would still be here if it had not been for Angel.*

"Thank you!"

*Breaking away from Angel Rosetta makes her way down the hall and to the room where Mick was resting. Walking over to his bedside Rosetta leans out and gives him a soft kiss on the forhead. Pulling a chair up next to the bed she sits and interlocks her hand with him just holding it.

Her heart starting to stop its rappid beat as the fear starts to fade knowing now Mick was ok. No matter how many times someone got hurt, no matter how many spills where taken Rosetta would always worry.

But now Mick was ok and that is what matter. She'd stay with him for a little while till he was to wake so he did not have to be alone.*

...the people who mattered, the ones who always saw us through and loved us endlessly, those were the people that would be with us till the end of time. The ones who would always stand by our side and help us heal. Those were the ones that gave us hope and would carry on our legacy to the next.

Got a stop

Mick lets Angel check him over, even though he’s a bit uncomfortable with it. Once she tells him what is wrong, he lets out an irritated sigh. “Aw, great…”

He tries to stifle more coughing. “No, I don’t wanna go to no dang hospital. You should know better than that.” He winces as he tries to move. “This is all I needed… I’ll be laid up for weeks now, thanks to that dumb animal.”

Another coughing fit makes him cringe and double over where he sits on the table, and finally he just lies down, closing his eyes. Two hours ago he had felt decent…right about now he felt downright crappy. His body wanted to sleep, but he didn’t want to. He might just be showing grouchiness towards his condition, but on the inside, he was worried and just a little scared. This wasn’t something to kid around about. If he didn’t get into surgery soon, this could kill him.

“Get Rosetta,” he mumbles. “See if Wendy will watch BJ. Then call whoever you need to. I ain’t goin’ nowhere.”


Carson nods absentmindedly. “I might check out that gas station. No use checking anything else out that I’d have to drive to. Without my own set of wheels, there’s really no point.”

The rest of the meal is finished with light small talk until Carson has to leave again. He stands up from the table and stretches, yawning just a little. The late nights and early mornings were starting to get to him. “I better scoot. I got a stop to make on the way back, and then… Dani and I will swing by here about eight so we can go to the movies.”


…Jason sits on the floor of his office, files spread all around him. A can of pop is on his desk, a half-eaten candy bar close by. It was a poor substitute for the evening meal he’d missed, but it would do for now. He was tired, but he had to keep working. He knew there had to be a connecting link somewhere…there had to be a lead… no matter how small. There was always a lead eventually.

Trooper whines and stretches out beside his master, yawning.

Jason rests a hand on the dog’s head. “Yeah, I know it’s getting late. Just give me one more hour…just one.”

choose

*Slowly walking to the door Rosetta watch Mick cross the yard making sure he gets to Angel's ok before shutting the door behind her and returning to BJ's side to continue to keep him company.*

*Open the door Angel look at Mick with groggy eyes for a moment but snaps up as she relizes who it was and that something was wrong.*

"Dear goodness Mick, you look like you just got hit by a truck. Come in, come in."

*Moving out of the way a little Angel slings Mick's arm around her neck as she helps him to the table. Grabbing a few items she needed Angel continues her examanation of Mick checking him over. Looking at the bruses and the cuts, the bumps and all of the scrapes. Till the problem was finally found.*

"Well Mick I found the problem. It looks like you got a broken rib the puncured your lung."

*Angel walks over to the sink and wash up her hands before turning back to Mick and continuing to talk to him.*

"You have two choses. I can get someone in here to help me and I can fix you up myself or we can send you out to the hospetil where they are better equiped. Its totally up to you Mick and one way or the other I wont be ofended."

*Jess studys Carson for a long moment searching his eyes for the truth and wanting to believe what he said was the truth. Not knowing anything differnt for now its what Jess had to believe.

Taking another bit of her pizza Jess thinks for a moment on Carson's question. Finally answering.*

"I think there is a little gas station that is look for help just down the road from here, or see if the pizza box is looking for people. You can use my car."