Ever at the storm's mercy

As Jess takes Axel’s hand, he tenses, caught completely off guard. He looks up at her quickly, but her eyes are focused on his hand. He’s tempted to swiftly end the unintentional interaction, but her gentle touch changes his mind, and he feels himself relax again.

Ultra sensitivity always came before the numbness, but Jess’ softness soothes it away, her motions almost hypnotic. Her fingers running over the scars send a tingle up his arm, but it’s not from the injury, and Axel can feel heat crawling up the back of his neck.

No one ever paid attention to the little things… but Jess had. She’d noticed, and had taken the initiative to help, bypassing questions to retain respect.

The pain in his hand starts to subside from Jess’ attention, and for a moment, Axel’s fingers start to wrap around her own.

But as if remembering his place, he slowly backs off, his finger running along her palm as he withdraws.

“Thank you,” he mentions quietly.

Though unusual for him not to know what to say, it takes him a moment before he clears his throat and regains complete composure. Flexing his fingers proves that Jess did help minimize the uncomfortable spell.

“It’s nerve damage,” he finally explains. Looking up again, he searches Jess’ eyes for a moment before going on.

He holds up his hand again, exposing the scar on both the top and palm. A wry grin seeps out. “I found out the hard way that flesh won’t stop a knife.”

Shaking his head, he gives a little sigh. “Didn’t have much trouble at first, but… these little episodes are happening more frequently now, and some get pretty intense. Feels like the knife is going through there all over again, then my hand just goes numb. Working it over seems to help get it going again.”

Axel pauses, taking a napkin to fidget with. As he resumes his explanation, his tone shifts slightly, intentionally void of emotion.

“At the increasing rate of frequency, by this time next year, I’ll be lucky if I have use of my hand at all.” Another grin is forced through. “Not such a great prospect for a guitarist and drummer. But… we’ll see what happens. There’s a chance it won’t get any worse than this.”

Cocking his head, his eyes fill with his piercing intensity as the wheels in his mind turn. His voice softens. “Ever at the storm’s mercy, a rainbow’s fate is never known. It can remain for an extended time, or fade in an instant.”


Scott can feel raw emotions boiling up inside of him as Dalton talks. He'd been friends with a few people around here, sure. He and Katie had been close and he'd been the next closest to Wyatt probably. But... to think that Dalton had such a high impression of him through what others were saying... He wondered if he did really deserve it. He'd always just been the blundering tech guy... what did people really care? But... apparently they did. And he couldn't help but feel a little bit of good from it.

"Um... ok." Standing lamely for a moment, Scott isn't quite sure what to do. But it looked like he at least had somewhere to come from now on. He had a job when he was ready.

"Scott?"

He whirls around and takes a step back, startled by Rick's sudden presence. "I was just coming back."

"It's okay," Rick assures. "I just didn't know where you were. You alright?"

"Yeah..." Scott gestures to Dalton. "He was just telling me that... that I still got a job here."

Rick's eyes widen and he glances over at Dalton. "Really?"

"I guess so."

"Well I'll be." A chuckle slips out and Rick shakes his head. He didn't know how it had happened, but somebody must have gotten the best of Austin. "Good. I'm glad."

A faint smile surfaces on Scott's face. "Me too."

Rick nods. "Come on. We need to talk about tomorrow."

Seeing Rick leave, Scott turns one more time to Dalton, the thanks in his eyes enough for now. He didn't need to say anything more. Looking down again, he turns around and trudges out of the office, following Rick back to the infirmary.


Luke's eyebrows raise a little bit, and he shifts his weight so he can see Angel's face. "You wanna go there, huh?" He gives a little shrug. He'd go along with her, but he'd been having enough trouble the way it was lately, and wasn't convinced that being away from home was such a great idea right now. But if Angel wanted to... he didn't really mind.

"That's alright I guess." He stops and thinks, a bit of the past creeping up on him. But things were different now... and he trusted his wife. Not only with how she conducted herself, but how she could handle herself in any situation. He didn't trust Austin at the moment, but Angel had a good head on her shoulders.

Luke gives her another squeeze, leaning down to offer a tender kiss. "If that's what you want. Just tell me when, so I know when I'm gonna cry, waving as you drive away." His grin signals he's teasing, and a light chuckle escapes. "Naw, it's good. Sounds like there's plenty of reason for you to go, and if you find anything out about Austin, that's reason enough right there."


Jason leans back in his truck seat, looking over the park. Just finishing lunch with Katie, they'd con separate ways for the rest of the day, but there was still something he needed to do. He wasn't sure how, but it was bugging him enough that he knew he should. He hadn't talked about it with Katie, or let her in on any of it today, but... it just didn't feel right to leave things as they were.

Fishing for his cell phone, he pulls it out and goes through the numbers until he comes to the one he wants. Dialing, he waits.

"Hello?"

"Hey, Mom."

"Jason!" Cindy smiles and eases down in the chair, Kaylee held in her other arm. Hope rises in her that this conversation would be better than the last. She hadn't liked not speaking to her son since harsh words had been exchanged. "How are you?"

"Oh..." Jason sighs. "I'm okay. I guess... I just..."

"It's okay." Cindy rocks Kaylee as she talks. "I'm sorry I gave you a hard time before. I heard from a couple other people and... you were right."

A bit of relief passes through Jason, and for a moment, he was willing to just let slide what he was going to say. But he brings himself back to task. "I'm sorry too. I shouldn't have yelled at you like I did. Guess I was just upset. Well... I'm still upset, but... it wasn't your fault."

"It's okay," Cindy repeats. "I worry about you."

"Don't... it'll all turn out in the end."

"But what about Austin? You said he helped put you in prison."

"I still think he did. And I'll deal with that later. For now, it's just TJY I'm worried about."

"What are you going to do?"

"Nothing until I get back in the office. I got a few ideas, but... for now I guess we're just gonna play things out. The law is watching him though, so at least that's good."

"Well... okay." Cindy isn't convinced that everything is quite as casual as her son now was making it sound. But she guessed she'd rather have him settled down about it than enraged as he had been before.

Jason gives a little smile. "I gotta go. But... I just wanted to give you a quick call."

"Thanks, Jase."

"Yeah. Tell Wes hi?"

"I will."

"Okay. Bye." Jason flips his phone shut and sits still for several moments.

Hero... when hate and anger turn to despair, what do you do?

He shakes his head.

I still hate Austin. But now that I've sat on it for a few days, it's almost like I'm numb. Like there won't ever be any feelings for him there at all again. And I wonder... is that all there is anymore?

Satisfaction

A small smile curles on Jess lips as she walks along side Axel down the street till they reach the restront. Once inside and seated Jess leans back a little in the booth and lets out a small sigh. It was nice getting out and have a nice time with a friend.

"Having a veriaty of people to talk with is always a nice thing. Differnt people talk about differnt things, and differnt ways. Its intresting sometimes to see how the next person differs from the last."

Looking over her menu again Jess finally decieds what she wants. Glancing up and seeing Axel rubbing his hand something comes over her and without even thinking she reaches out and take Axel's hand in her rubbing it gently and with the other hand running her fingers over the scar. No questions come as she rubs respecting Axel's privecy and knowing if he wanted her to know that he would tell her. Just consintrating on his hand Jess almost seems lost, knowing that it must hurt because more than once now she had seen the affect on him.

A small smile forms on Dalton's lips. As a feeling washs over him that he's not sure he can describe. It wasnt often he felt like this for someone he hardly new. Yet at the same times it almost felt like he had known Scott all his life. In a way his heart went out to him, and he wanted to show him friendship, comfort not because he had to or he felt bad for him but because he wanted to.

"You do deserve it Scott. Your one of the best people I've met in my life in a long time. Maybe I have only known you for a few weeks. But in those few weeks I have seen people stick up for you, risk there jobs for you. I've hurd everyone talking about you and that in itself tell me that your a great person. Not to mention I got to have a few conversations of my own wtih you."

Giving a small nod of satisfaction Dalton looks away for a moment and than around the room before looking back to Scott.

"I can't wait till your able to start working again. Its going to be nice to have someone to keep me company. We are gonna have to find a new desk to put in here too. You need anything...let me know ok?!"

Going back to his paper work the smile lingered on Dalton's face. How sometimes the small things in life could really open someone eyes and show them that maybe it was ok to take a jump for someone.

Continuing to snuggle close to Luke Angel falls silent for a moment. Feeling the comfort of her husband was nice. His arms warped around her like a blanket.

"I guess its hard not being able to see something to really understand and not knowing what the future hold can make it scary too."

Moving just a little bit Angel tilts her so she can look Luke in the eyes giving a small smile. A question layed behind her eyes that she wasnted to ask though she wasnt sure how. How would it be taken and what would the answer be?

"Luke, I was thinking about going to Nevada for a few days to see what was up. I wanted to see if I could find out what was wrong with Austin and I know he'd talk to me. Also Misty had been working on some nerve damage repair research that she has been wantching me to come take a look for ages now. So I guess I'm asking if it would be ok with you if I went. If not that is quite alright."

A dance

A faint grin creases Axel's lips, but he doesn't turn around, still cleaning himself up at the sink. The pause is long, and some might think he didn't hear Jess, but after he's finished drying his hands, he ambles to the open garage door.

"Well, alright then." Grabbing a hoodie off a nail by the door, he pulls it on over his t-shirt to hide the grime. He motions with his head for Jess to follow, and exits into the parking lot.

Just as they get into the fresh air though, a voice behind them makes Axel stop. Leo had beat them to the outdoors, reading aloud a paper with handwritten words.

"A dance.
Elements of nature form.
So distinguished and so rare.
A dance.
Spheres of moisture, glistening true.
Gravity controlled, but willed by fire.
A dance.
Raindrops meet a burning sun.
But squelched they will not be.
A dance.
Bursting forth, the colors sparked.
The light severed to reveal.
A dance.
Between the raindrops and the light.
Arched to bridge the worlds,
Of two,
Who dance."

Leo as he stares at the page with raised eyebrows. "So now we know what our dear friend Axel does in his spare time around here. Lovely... just lovely."

Though Leo had been looking for an embarrassed reaction, Axel doesn't give it to him. Instead, he simply shakes his head. "Well, Leo... You can read. I'm proud of you." He turns his head to shout back inside. "Hey, Jed! Next time you have trouble with reading the label on a box, just ask Leo here. He's improving by leaps and bounds!"

"Oh, stop!" Leo smacks Axel on the head with the paper.

Axel lets a grin slip as he calmly retrieves his writing. "Keep it up, Leo. One day you might be able to actually speak as intelligently as the things you read."

"Why you..." Leo's mouth hangs open, but no comeback comes to mind quick enough.

Axel folds the paper and stuffs it in his back pocket before turning back around and aiming for the sidewalk once more. He throws Jess a humorous glance. "Coming or what?"

He's quiet as they walk down to the little restaurant. Not seeming to be too deep in thought, but quiet nonetheless.

Settling down at a small table near the window, once their inside and have their food ordered, Axel leans back in his chair, giving a little sigh of content. "Ya know, sometimes just getting away from the shop for a while is worth the walk."

He rubs his scarred hand absentmindedly as it starts to tingle again. "'Course, it helps to have someone to talk to other than Leo too." He chuckles softly, his eyes showing that even if he razzed Leo, they were friends.


"Thank you, Miss Garrison." Rick concludes his phone call. "Appreciate everything and... We, or at least Scott, will be seeing you soon. I'll do my best to get him to his appointment."

Hanging up, he rubs a tired hand over his face, stifling a yawn. A couple hours of sleep at home hadn't done a whole lot of good.


Scott blinks, staring at Dalton for several seconds, thinking he must have heard incorrectly. But no... he hadn't. Dalton really had gotten his job back for him. But... how... why...

He swallows hard, unsure how to even react. He'd been so sure that he'd never be back working here, at least as far as Austin was concerned. He'd been so sure that there was no place for him anymore. Did they really love him around here that much? Could Dalton really use his help that much?

A bit timidly, Scott steps forward, eying Dalton's hand, as if almost afraid of what the intentions were behind the gesture. But ever so slowly, he reaches out, finally taking Dalton's hand. Something close to a smile emerges, but too much confusion remains for any celebration.

Backing off a little, he studies Dalton for a moment. There were a lot of questions as to how he'd convinced Austin of this, but... at this point, Scott wasn't going to complain. He didn't think he was worth much here anymore, and he didn't really think he could contribute much, but at least his haven was back... at least he knew he wouln't be thrown out.

"Um... Thank you... I guess. I... don't really know what to say." Scott stumbles through his words, unsure if it was his brain that was jumbled, or just his immediate thoughts. "I'm not sure I deserve this..." His eyes fall to the floor, but he forces himself to look up again. "But if Austin agreed then... I guess I'll do what I can."


Luke offers a smile as Angel approaches, but can see the strain behind her eyes. As she settles in next to him, he puts his arm around her, drawing her even closer, and planting a gentle kiss on her head.

Listening to her, he knows she's hurting, and so is he. So is everyone, it seemed. Some more than others, but in reality, everyone was feeling stress, whether it was related to the episode with Clint and Wendy, or to what was happening in Nevada with their friend. Whatever the case, the tension had been rising whether people wanted to admit it or not.

"Wendy will be okay," he assures softly. "It wasn't in the plans but... she'll be okay. God's not going to leave her high and dry because she made a mistake. And... I have faith in Clint too. Maybe more than I should, but he's going to be the one taking care of Wendy here pretty soon."

Luke gives Angel another little squeeze. He knew his own protectiveness he felt towards Wendy, but couldn't imagine how Angel felt... having to let go of her daughter more quickly than anticipated.

A deep sigh is let out slowly, and after a moment, Luke shifts on the couch to pull Angel almost onto his lap so he can wrap both arms around her. "We're all wondering about Austin... I don't understand either. I even talked to Brent earlier, and he's just as confused as anyone. I guess all we can do right now is pray... Pray that whatever Austin is going through isn't as major as it seems, and... pray that too many bridges don't get burned."

Resting his head against hers, he knows it isn't that simple. There had to be more to the story than they knew. But what else could be done? Austin had been their friend... but what could they possibly do?

Friends

Jess shoots her head up giving a small jump as Axel was being called. The sharp voice startled her just a little causing her to move closer to Axel out of habbet feeling for a moment a bit valnarable. But seeinf Axel turn to him and now hearing the calm voice Jess relaxes just a little knowing everything was ok.

Shaking her head and giving a laugh as the rock music plays Jess leans a little closer to Axel.

"You know it usaly depends the kind of mood I am in, and I like rock just as much as the next person but I'd rather have some classic playing more than anything."

Strating and walks twords the front Jess stops for a moment as Axel's invatation or non invatation. The courners of her mouth curling.

"Well I was going to head to get something to eat myself and for a moment I was scaired I was gonna have to eat alone but since your heading to the same place as me I might as well follow if you dont mind."

Jess stuffs her keys in her pocket and turns to look at Axel.

Thinking for a moment Hope taps her pencil absentmindedly on her desk as she talked to Rick.

"Well without seeing Scott first to see his condition I really dont know how accurit my addvice would be but from what you told me on the phone my best guess would be to keep him comfortable and calm. If he admisphere is comfortable than he just might get a better night sleep."

Standing Hope walks over to her filing cabnet pulling out another folder for her next pashent who would be there soon.

"Other than that Mr. Johnston there really isnt anything you can do till I see Scott."

Sitting at his desk and hearing someone enter the office Dalton feels a bit irratated for a moment that someone entered without knocking. Looking up from his desk Dalton is about to say something when he see just who entered the office. Seeing Scott Dalton's face softens and a new attitude is formed and a small smile makes its way across the big mans face.

"Hey there Scott. I was going to stop by and see how you were in a bit but, I guess you found me first."

As Scott asks about his own name being on the door again Dalton cant help the flutter that formed in telling the new to Scott that he could stay though keeping his cool and not letting it show through.

"Well, I was able to work it out so you could stayand we could have two tech guys. I know alot, but there is so much more I could learn and I'd want the best to teach me. Its not much but I was happy to do it because this place loves you, and I dont want them to lose you."

Finally a brauder smile forms, one not offten seen on the face of this giant. But something about Scott changed him, something about him made Dalton feel good and it felt even better to know he had helped someone.

"Congradulations Scott you made it to friend status."

Dalton holds out his hand to Scott offering a handshake.

Poking her head into the house Angle scans the room for Luke. Finally her eyes rest on him and a smile cross her face. Entering all the way she walks over to the couch and sits down next to him bringing a hand to his chest and resting her head on his shoulder. So much went through her mind it was hard to figure out one thing alone.

"Whats happening to the everything Luke. We once wanted peace for our kids and that never came. Now...now Wendy has to grow up fasted than planed, and she has bene thrown into a world she cant even understand yet. I know I didnt but I feel like I failed somewhere."

A small sniffle comes as a tiny tear rolls down Angel's cheek. Everything piled up, she was strong but now the bucket was starting to overflow once again. She was happy and over joyed in like but not the stress was in piles.

"And than there is Austin. I don't understand whats gotten into him. He seems ok when he went back to Nevada. I even talked to him before he left and now, this person that is firing people and being a tyrint its just...not him."

Angel keeps her face burryed into Luck's shoulder. Everything was so confusing, and sometimes so hard to bear. But being close to her husband she found the comfort and love she need. Anytime, anyplace.

Why?

Axel fidgets with a wrench in his hand for a moment, cocking his head at Jess, and noting her lack of hurry to leave. Most people, once their car was finished, would be fast gone.

He opens his mouth to respond, but the silence is interrupted by a shout from the office.

"Axel!!!"

Axel's eyes widen and he turns around, looking to the open door where Jed was standing, waving a CD in the air. "What?"

"Are you crazy?!" Jed blinks, shaking his head. "You have defiled the CD player!"

Axel quirks an eyebrow. "Okay, I'll bite... how did I do that?"

"You replaced my metal with this?!"

"Ohh, that." Axel holds in a laugh, turning back to the van. "Little bit of celtic never hurt anyone."

"It hurt my ears!"

Leo pops up from the other side of the shop. "You tell him, Jed! Every time I get in the tow truck, he's got some foofoo music going."

Axel smirks, giving Jess a look that said the other two were off their rockers. "Just because you guys don't know how to appreciate music when you here it, is no reason to make fun of it."

Jed rolls his eyes and slips back into the office, the sound of rock music coming forth soon after.

Axel sighs good-naturedly and reaches up to shut the van hood. Grabbing a rag, he wipes a couple tools off and heads to the sink to use soap and water on his hands.

"Well, you should be all set," he comments to Jess, over his shoulder. "Don't know about you, but I'm heading to Michael B's for some soup before my lunch break is over, or before these two knotheads decide to leave so I have to stay and watch the shop."

Though his eyes focus on the sink, his invitation lingers in the air, to join him at the little restaurant just a walk's distance away.


Rick turns in his chair to check the calendar, and nods, even though Hope can't see him. "Wednesday sounds good. I'll do my best with him until then, and... yes, I understand that you may decide different arrangements for him."

He pauses, hoping that things would be better tonight with Scott, but was unconvinced. "I, um... well, do you have any advice what I can do in the meantime? Last night scared me pretty bad, I'll admit. I still don't know if Scott was totally awake or not, but... well, I guess I'm just glad I don't know what was going through his mind. I don't want to see him hurt, so I've opted to stay here with him, but that just makes him mad."


Hearing someone coming down the hall, Scott starts to turn to go back to the infirmary. But as he does, his eyes glance upward one more time, and suddenly his eyes find something too strange to not stop and stare.

Frowning, he doesn't understand. Two nameplates? Why was his name back on this door? He had no office... he had no job.

Confused, instead of returning to the shelter of the infirmary, he steps just inside Dalton's office, avoiding interaction with those passing in the hall.

Looking over to Dalton at his desk, Scott hesitates, feeling invasive for not having knocked. Reaching up, he absentmindedly rubs his blind eye. "Um... Dalton?"

He finally gets up enough nerve to ask, skipping over any formal greetings. "Why... why is my name on the door?"


Carson grins and gives Misty's hand a little squeeze. "Thanks, Misty."

Someone coming into the diner makes Carson glance up, and his eyes pass by the clock on the wall. Sighing, he looks back to Misty. "Can I beg a ride off of you, back to Mom and Pop's? If you gotta get back to work, I can walk. I told Herb I'd be a while anyway."

Differnt

Misty listens to Carson with interest. She really did care what happend and was going on with him all these months. Even though some of the info hurt a little she was happy that Carson was feeling better about himself.

"Well it sounds like your on the right track and I am happy for that. You've always ment the world to me."

A grin curles at the courners on Misty's mouth as she just looks across the table at Carson.

" There is just something about you I cant let go. Maybe its the fire you spark in me. I dont know but whatever it is I like it you know that."

Reaching across the table Misty takes Carson's hand in her own. Things were gonna be differnt that was for sure, but maybe she would get use to it.

Jess enjoys watching and helping Axel here and there, the small talk was nice and the silence even better. Doing something differnt was always nice, and watching Leo and Axel go back and forth was something funny in itself to watch.

Giving a small jump when Axel drops the wrench Jess just watches him. Something was wrong and was bothering Axel with his hand. This had been the second time she saw him rubbing it over wincing just a little. But letting it pass by once again Jess just watches him. Taking in every move, and motion.

Once Leo comes back and gives Jess her keys she hops off the counter. Though she wasnt in any hurry she contiune to talk to Axel answering his question.

"Not much really. I have to work at 2 and than after that I am doing a bit of waitressing at Mom and Pop's for about an hour."

Jess stops and takes a breath of air relizing it felt like she was holding it in for one reason or another.

" Other than that nothing to grand."

Picking up the phone Hope jots something down fast before hearing Rick's voice. After a few days had gone by and she had hurd nothing she almost lots hope that Scott would consent to see her.

"Hello Mr. Johnston, I was starting to wonder if you were going to call back or not."

Pulling out a new file she jots down Scott's name and that he in an out pashent in pending.

"..Ok I got it set up but Mr. Johnston you relize that if I find it better Scott stays here or once I take him as a cliant he trys to harm himself he will have no choise in the matter anymore?! I just want you as Scott's Dr. to understand and know this so there are no saprises."

Drawing silent again Hope looks through a calander on her desk trying to find a good time for Scott to come see her.

"How about Wednsday at 3pm? Would that work?"

Pickle jar

Carson gives Misty a little smirk at her comment. “Alright, I give. You can drive.” He pulls his own jacket a little tighter around himself. “You pick the place, but it’s gotta be in agreement with my wallet.”

He nudges her teasingly as they walk, finally getting back to her car. Getting in, he shakes his head. “Crazy weather. They’re saying it’s one of the coldest winters in a long time. Just my luck – the one year I’m without a car.” He rolls his eyes.

It’s not much later and the two are at a café downtown. It’s fairly quiet today, peaceful, even though it looks out onto the busy street.

“…so I spent the first night at her place last night.” Carson finishes up telling Misty that he’d moved in with Dani after having been living at Mom and Pop’s all this time. He finishes off his glass of soda pop, then shrugs. “I guess that brings us up to date. Well… not quiet.”

He cocks his head, looking across the table at Misty. “I forgot to mention that somewhere along the line I got accepted back by the only sheila that ever got the upper hand on me.”


Wyatt sighs and nods his agreement, slipping in behind the steering wheel of his jeep once more. Waiting a few minutes until Ty was a short ways away, Wyatt drives slowly and makes a few unnecessary turns to stay a satisfactory distance from their target. "Where is the blockhead going anyway?" he mutters.


Ty trudges down the sidewalk, his hands in his jacket pockets. His eyes were focused on the cement slabs at his feet, rather than ahead, so when the women knocks into him, he jumps, completely startled. Turning around, he lifts his eyebrows. "Um..no problem?"

He's surprised again when the second figure moves past him, and he stops, a bit confused, but not caring a whole lot. It wasn't any of his business what was going on. But...

His eyes sudden catch sight of the forest green jeep several blocks away, and a scowl forms. "I told you I wouldn't be babysat," he growls under his breath.

Turning, he slides into an alleyway instead of heading down the sidewalk, then scoots behind a dumpster, out of sight from the street.


Wyatt drives slowly, suddenly having lost sight of Ty. "Aw, great." He glances down to the left, then to the alley on the right, but Ty had vanished. "He may not be able to read, but he's too smart for his own good."

Shaking his head, he makes sure no one is coming before doing a U-turn. "If he wants to be alone, so be it. I'm not gonna play this gave with him. If you want to go looking for him, that's up to you, but I have to get back to the office before I'm the one on the unemployed list."


There's just enough space between the dumpster and the brick wall, and Ty can see Wyatt turn around and drive off again.

Giving a smirk of satisfaction, Ty rises to his feet again, continuing down the alley until he's at the other side of the block. Looking both ways, he opts to turn left towards the center of town.


Axel tinkers a bit in the engine, hearing Jess' comment about the carburetor, but keeping his eyes on his work. "Mm-hmm..." He reaches in to fiddle with a hose. "Looks like the last guy who worked on this had a few of his own screws loose."

Slipping his hand down in with a wrench, something gives way and he winces, drawing his hand back out just in time before the tool slips from his numb grasp to clatter onto the floor. Shaking his head with a little bit of disgust, he rubs his hand for a moment until he can flex his fingers again and pick up the wrench.

Still concentrating, he goes right back to work. "The carburetor has problems, that's for sure, along with several other things. I'm surprised the guy was even able to drive it here without being towed."

Axel squints into the engine, then gestures over to the tool bench. "Hey, grab me those pliers over there, would you?" He keeps his eyes on his work, even after receiving the tool. "There we are..."

Working for a while longer, the time slips by. Small talk mixed with work would create a boring atmosphere for some, but here, somehow it doesn't.

"Grease!"

Axel looks up from the van to see Leo. "What?"

"Ten minutes and she's ready to roll. How's your project coming?"

Axel holds up a piece of severed hose. "Peachy."

Leo grins. "Well you and the peaches have fun. This baby here is gonna be running as smooth as butter. Don't know what your problem was with it."

Axel shakes his head, a wry grin barely noticeable. "It's like a pickle jar," he calls back. "I've been doing all the work, and all you had to do was pop the lid."

Leo sets his hands on his hips. "That's not fair!"

Axel's grin finally emerges. "Sounds far to me. But you better get a move on, or those ten minutes are going to be gone."

Muttering under his breath, Leo gets back to work.

Axel turns his head to catch Jess' eye, his own sparkling with humor. "Leo wins a trophy and you get your car back. Seems like a pretty good deal." He looks over to the far wall where there was a clock. It was noon. "And all before lunch to boot." He gives a nod of satisfaction. There was more, dancing on the tip of his tongue, but he held back, returning to the van.

"Big plans today?" he finally asks.


"No."

Rick sighs and looks at Scott, trying to change his mind, but finding it nearly impossible. He sits on the edge of the bed, papers in hand. It was after lunch, and trying to get Scott to interact with him was like pulling teeth. "But Scott... what happened last night..."

"Won't happen again," Scott states flatly. "I'm fine."

"You're not fine!"

"No, I'm a loony, right?"

"That's not what I meant and you know it." Rick looks at Scott sternly. "Now I'm trying to give you the best option here."

Scott tucks his knees up close to his chest, remaining stubborn. "It's an option. That means I have a choice. And I don't want to stay there. I want to stay home... or here... but not there."

Rick sighs, giving up. "Alright. You don't have to stay. But will you go see her?"

Scott shrugs.

"I thought we talked about this." Rick tries to look Scott in the eye, but his younger friend refuses.

"Maybe I changed my mind."

"You said yourself that you knew you needed some help. Don't you want to feel better? Don't you want to get rid of this nightmare?"

Scott swallows hard and shrugs. One minute he wanted to go to the counselor, and the next he was terrified of it. "Fine."

"Alright then." Rick gets to his feet. "We're going to do this then. And you're going to give it your best shot, because I know you can."

Turning, he heads for his desk, picking up the phone.

Not really wanting to hear the conversation, while Rick's back is turned, Scott slides off the bed. At least he was dressed for the day... he'd gotten that much accomplished by noon.

Padding quietly in his bare feet, he slips out into the hall. Squinting in the brighter hall lights, he looks down both ways, seeing no one. He didn't know what he was doing... he knew Austin was around here somewhere and that was a scary thought, but he just wanted to get out of the infirmary and out of Rick's sight for two minutes.

Taking a deep breath, he walks slowly, keeping one hand running on the wall as if looking for security. Without Domino, he didn't have any security at all.

Not knowing why, he finds himself stopped outside his old office once again, glancing in on Dalton.


"Hi, Miss Garrison. This is Rick Johnston, from the Elite. I visited the other day." Rick cradles the phone between his shoulder and chin. "I just spoke with Scott, and... he's willing to come see you. He doesn't want to stay, even though I wanted him to after an episode last night when he just about got his wish to die." He sighs deeply. "But at this point, I'll take what I can get. I'd like to set up his first visit."

Cars

Ya I am gonna finish up with Wyatt here and whatnot if your still there when I am done and even if not I'll find ya to hang out with for a bit.

Letting out a sigh Katie's eyes follow Ty as he makes his way down the street. She didnt know what alse to do. Everything seemed to be falling apary. If it wasnt Scott it was something alse. Austin sure had mad a good mess of things. Letting out her own sigh and a shrug she turns back to

" There's nothing alse we can do. Once a Henson is stubborn you cant pull you just have to let them work it out and be there for him."

Shaking her head again Katie gets into Wyatt's truck.

"Lets follow him a safe distiance back just to make sure he is going to be ok for a little bit Wyatt."

As Ty goes one way down the street a slim fingure with curly brown hair moves up the other way quickly.

Looking behind her as if exspecting someone to be chasing her she bumps into Ty. Turning around and walking back words she calls to him.

"Sorry about that I didnt see you."

Turning back the other way she continues to move disapearing around the courner right as a nother figure moves past Ty in the same direction.

Giggling just a little for a moment Misty can see the old Carson as her arms wrap around him. As quick as it came it went. Misty wasnt sure what it ment, but if she held out, maybe the old Carson would be back. The one she had grown to love. For now she would love to love this Carson do he was the same person after all.

Curling her finger around his she gives a small shiver as the cold wind blows. Just now she had relized how cold it was.

"Lunch sounds great Carson..."

Misty smiles up at him as they walk.

"...as long as I can drive its starting to get colder out. Though being next to you I think I have enough heat."

Quirking a smile at Axel Jess cant but give a small giggle one that held a bit of nervouseness but not showing she was uncomfortable as the slight bit of flirtation in Axel's voice. Feeling a bit of color come to her cheeks Jess follows Axel into the back.

"Now I guess I can see what kind of real job a rainbow has."

Watching Axel Jess is relitivly quiet though she leans in the van with him touching a few things here and there, and even grabbing a rag to whipe off her own hands once or twice.

"Did you check the carbarator on this baby it looks like its warped a little."

Jess leans in a little closer to take a look but than relizes what she did and backs up a little. Pointing to the bolt on the top.

"See its warped, and looks ready to pop off. One would assume that might be one of the problems."

Looking to Axel she gives small smile and than backs up a few feet just letting him work.

Jabber

Because he's a lowlife, that's why.

Jason's words are riddled with anger and a burning hate. He steps back into his house after having Trooper out, and shakes his head.

As far as low self-esteem goes, Ty just needs a swift kick. He's just feeling sorry for himself. As far as me...

He grabs a light jacket and his keys.

I'm going to go check on Scott. Then after that I'll probably waste some time down at Mom and Pop's. If you want to catch up to me anywhere in there, it's fine.

Though "fine" didn't sound too convincing, Jason's eager emotions proved that he did want Katie's company, even if his mood didn't match.


Ty grits his teeth as Katie talks, unwilling to turn and look at her. "I'm not learning well," he mutters. "I'm not learning at all."

Despite his anger though, Katie's softer tone starts to bring him back down.. "You think I don't know the world is a big place? I've explored plenty. Remember where you found me?" He shakes his head. "I'm not scared of it, Katie. I simply don't fit in it."

Hearing Katie's final statements, Ty finally turns his head towards her, rolling his eyes. "Oh yeah... my brother getting his girlfriend pregnant... that's exciting all right. Maybe I'm not the stupid one after all." He shakes his head. "You may think this is a great time for a vacation, but you still got a job to return to, remember? I don't. I can't afford a trip even if I wanted it, which I don't."

"Well I can't afford a trip either," Wyatt states flatly as he rejoins them. "Not after bailing you out. Now come on."

The old Henson stubbornness shines through as Ty refuses to get up, proving beyond a doubt that he was indeed Jim's son.

"Ty," Wyatt warns. "If you know what's good for you, you get up off your sorry hind end and come with us."

As the officer unlocks the cell, Ty finally gets to his feet and trudges out, leading the way back down the hall. Within minutes, all three are back outside. But instead of heading to Wyatt's jeep, Ty turns and starts down the sidewalk.

Wyatt pauses by his door handle, looking after him in confusion. "Now what?"

"What do you care?" Ty turns around to talk as he walks backwards. "I'll not be babysat."

"Well where are you going?"

"For me to know."

"Ty!" Wyatt throws up his arms as Ty turns back around and continues his route away from the station. He groans and looks to Katie. "I don't know what more we can do."


Carson's heart skips a beat as Misty speaks, his pulse quickening even more as she draws closer to him once again. Feeling her arms around him... her warm breath on his skin... smelling her sweet hair... It enveloped all his senses.

Returning her kiss, he slides his arms further around her, one hand caressing the side of her face as his thumb runs down her cheek.

Pulling away slightly, he whispers, as if almost afraid this moment didn't really exist. "I've missed you too...so much." Returning his lips to hers, he lets a sweet kiss linger, his inner being feeling as though at last he's receiving the long drink of water he's thirsted for for oh so long.

Gently withdrawing, he keeps his hand to her face, just looking in her eyes again, making sure that this was real... that he really was getting another chance. A crooked grin surfaces and he moves to pull Misty into a rough hug. "Some Aussies are blessed with stupidity... at least this one was blessed with you in spite of it."

Still grinning, he stands up, taking Misty by the hand. "I'll treat you to lunch, if you let me..."


A grin finally escapes to accent Axel's face, just letting silence rule for a moment, returning Jess' gaze fearlessly. Letting his eyes remain on hers, he just waits, witholding words until finally she drops her own gaze. Almost chuckling but not quite, he puts his watch away.

"Well... I guess I haven't seen a car that could tell time yet. And I guess storm clouds can roll in at any time of the day, can't they?"

Grabbing a rag, he tries to get some of the grease off his fingers, but it just doesn't work, proving the stains would be there for a while.

"So..." He cocks his head and looks back up at Jess. "The boss is gone today."

He pauses, almost as if assuming she would know what that meant, before he goes on. "And since by now you probably have the magazines in there memorized..."

He shrugs and starts to amble back to the van. "You can come help keep Leo out of my hair." Turning around, he throws her an intentional crooked grin. "Or at least keep me company so I don't have to listen to his jabber."

Maybe you are

Katie's eyes narrow a little as she stairs at her friend through the bars of the jail sell resting her on hand on the little tray that one could keep what little food they got on.

"Huh, maybe you are a loser I mean only they would try an rob a store and get caught right? Its funny though because I new someone with your same name and just recintly he was learning how to read and he was doing really well. That will he had that wasnt the acts of someone who was stupid or a loser that was the act of someone who was willing to learn and THAT is not stupid."

Shifting just a little Kaite leans onto the bars more resting her head on one of the bars.

Why is Austin doing this to the people who need confadince more than others. Why couldnt he pick on the stronger ones. No wonder people have low selfasteam in this world, because of people like Austin. We fight to help, and he is just hindering them.

Katie lets out an inword sigh as she stratens again just a little bit. Ty needed his friend, he needed that confadince back.

"There is a big word out there Ty. A big scary world waiting for you to explore it. Sometimes we just need to step out of our comfort zone, we need to jump out of the box and face our fears. Goodness only knows I was scaired to death coming from Texas to here, but its the best thing I ever did and I am happy."

For a moment Katie's emotions take her back to when she first left. It had been anger that drove her to come to Nevada but it was friendship, love, and many more things she found. Leaving Texas helped her grow and learn so many things. What started out bad, ended good and Katie would never go back to change that.

"Don't give up on your job yet, its not over till its over. This of this as a vacation. Maybe you should go see that brother of yours. I hurd he is going to be a dad, and your going to be a uncle. Thats pretty exciting."

Misty's eyes gaze back at Carson, the deepths of them still holding what she had always loved, the blue pearcing her own, her heart starting to race the same feeling remaining that had always been there when she had been around Carson.

Thought there was something differnt about Carson now, Misty thought for sure she would get use to it. He was still Carson after all.

"I'm willing to try again, your something alse Carson and I cant deny that. No matter how mad I get at you I can't hate you."

As Carson leans over and gives Misty a kiss her paulse races, as her heart thumps. Evern though the kiss was not a normal kiss Carson would give it still made her paulse race. Returning the kiss Misty lets her own passion decied how she should kiss him back as she brings her one hand to the side of his face sliding to his neck and her other hand to his back.

Finally pulling away from the kiss that old grin that had found its home on Misty's lips so long ago had found its way there once again as her heart felt alive. She had been missing something and now she'd found it again.

"I'd missed you so much Carson. At first I thought I would be fine but...I missed everything about you."

Looking up at Carson once again Misty draws closer to him again bringin her lips to his once more showing him just how much she had missed him indeed.

Jess can't help the small laugh that escapes her lips as Leo and Axel go back and forth for a moment. Shaking her head as Leo takes the keys from her Jess liked the idea of him working on the car. Maybe that ment she could spend a little more time talking with Axel.

Turning her had back to Axel maybe a little to quickly at his comment Jess can feel her cheeks turn a small shade of red for a moment. But as quickly as it came Jess trys to push it away a smile on her lips just the same.

"Last time I check cars didnt wait for a certin time to break down now do they?"

Giving a laugh and a slight shake of her hear Jess' eyes search Axel's for a moment. Searching for something, something unknown but searching non the less.

Standing in the kitches Angel lets out a long sigh. She'd over hurd everything once again and it hurt to think about it. What was wrong with Austin? Why was he doing this?

Continuing to do the dishes Angel's mind wonders to a time long forgot. A time, when everything was far from ok, but she had been the closes with her friends as ever. A time when Austin and herself were almost insepritable. So many people had thought they were dating and as much as she had wanted to back then they had only remainded friends.

Still being friends with Austin and feeling they were close Angel felt something needed to be done. Someone should find out what was wrong or what was going on.

Confirmed actions

Carson lets silence reign for several moments after Misty speaks, his eyes roaming her own. The blue depth piercing hers, he stares, amazed to find the feelings that still truly remained.

Feeling her hand on his, he slowly turns his palm up to curl his fingers over hers, his thumb brushing her knuckles. Her final comment sends a feeling through him so forgotten, but so familiar.

“You’ve always held something that I’ve never been able to figure out,” he says quietly, almost whispering. “Somehow you’ve always been able to look past the scumbag I am, and care for me despite all the strife I put you through.”

He shakes his head. “I'll never be good enough to deserve you...but... if I can still light that fire and make you soar again..."

His grip tightens a little on Misty's hand, and he leans in closer. He wasn't confident about the future... he wasn't confident about his own self... he wasn't sure about anything. But he couldn't walk away. Not now. Not after another chance was staring him right in the face. Not after having already experienced the despairing void in his life. Second chances were rare. Third chances were even rarer. He'd be stupid to let it go.

Pressing his lips to Misty's, Carson gives her a tender kiss, withdrawing just enough that he can rest his forehead against hers and search her eyes once more.

"If...you're willing to try it one more time... this is one Aussie that's going to try his hardest not to mess up again."


Jason lets Trooper back into the house and follows him in, shutting the door. He'd gotten up late... if he wasn't careful, he could get used to sleeping in. But once back to work, there'd be no forgiveness for tardiness anymore.

Searching his refrigerator for some orange juice, he suddenly gets Katie's message and straightens up quickly, banging his head on the freezer handle. Wincing, he mutters a growl under his breath.

Oh, that sure was nice of him. I bet there's a few people who would be really interested to find that out.

Though not knowing where Ty even was at the moment, Jason formulates an idea in his mind.

Yes... there would be some interest...

He moves towards his phone.

And I think I might just stir up the gossip line. If Brown can't do anything, maybe some heat will get Austin to chill out.


Ty glares at the wall as Katie speak, unwilling to look over at her for several moments. Finally though he turns his head again, still lying on the cot.

"I don't belong here, huh? Well where do I belong then? I can't get another job. I don't even really know my family. Where else is there, Katie? There isn't any place for stupid guys like me. We're not smart enough for the world."

Gritting his teeth, he turns his focus to the ceiling. It was obvious that he had gotten himself in this position on purpose, but the logic had been skewed.

"Maybe Austin was right. I am just a loser."


Jim hangs up the phone in the kitchen, his jaw muscles tightening to show the stress level that had just risen. Going back into the dining area, he sits back down at the table, with a few others who were still left, mingling before going back out to chores after breakfast was finished.

Mick looks across at him with question. "Something wrong?"

Jim takes another swallow of coffee, even though it's gotten cold. "Ty got fired from the Elite last night."

Mick raises his eyebrows. "What?"

"Yeah. That was Jason. Guess Austin got rid of Ty because he couldn't read." Jim gives a scoffing laugh and shakes his head. After what they'd heard through Cindy and confirmed through Brent, some questions had still remained as to whether or not Austin was really doing as accused. Apparently it was the truth. "Kinda makes you wonder if he's still on the same track we all are."

Luke sits nearby, absentmindedly rubbing his knee. A frown forms on his face. "Why is he doing this?"

Jim shrugs. "Wouldn't we all like to know. But it sounds like he's firing people left and right. He certainly didn't let us in on any plans like that."

Worth more

Smiling as she pulls into the park Misty just looks at Carson for a moment before getting out of her car. It was oh so good to see him again. Still looking at him even after everything she loved seeing him. Finally getting out of the car Misty slowly makes her way over to Carson a smile still curled on her lips. As Carson goes to take Misty's hand she gives a small step closer to him antisapating it, but than seeing him stop and step back Misty stops herself confused for a moment as the ping returns.

Settaling to walk next to Him Misty keeps her ears open listing to Carson's every word. Some of the stuff was a little shocking to her but she felt good knowing Carson was shairing this with you. Not intaruping Caron not even one time she just listens trying to process everything. Finally when the pause comes Misty takes a seat next to Carson on the bench. Quiet for a moment turning to look at him. Studying him Misty can tell something is differnt, Carson indeed had changed a lot over the last few months. He was almost like a completly differnt person.

"I'm honored you shair this with me Carson. It means a lot knowing a bit of your background a little more. I can see how it would be hard being saseptable to this stuff as a kid and wondering if its right. Its certinly not an excuse but it does explain a few things."

Offering Carson a soft smile Misty trys her best to make him feel comfortable. This had to be hard on him and the emotions pooling behind his eyes was easy to see.

"As for letting me down again...we all have to take chanses in life right...."

Misty moves a little close to Carson and reachs down taking his hand in her running a finger over it softly.

"...and there is just something about you Carson. Your a hott Aussie who lite the fire, and helped me sore."

Looking at Carson Misty searches his face the small sassy grin that was long forgot creeping on her face once again. Being with Carson made Misty feel alive, she liked the feeling, she liked the fire.

Entering the jail Katie follow Wyatt closly. Nothing could explain how upset she was at the moment. How could Ty be so silly to let this happen, he had a good job and things were going well. But once seeing him, and hearing what happend Katie's anger subsided and was directied at a new target her heart softing for Ty.

J...you'd never guess the stunt you grandfather pulled now. He fired Ty because he couldnt read.

Continuing to consintrate Katie nods to Wyatt as he leaves before she turns back to Ty. Silent for a moment and than finally speaking again.

"Ty...you relize your just proving to Austin that you wernt using your head right? You better than this, your smarter than this. So what you have a hard time reading, So Austin is a jerk forget that and forget him. I got saspended because I stood up for what I believed in, that dosnt mean you have to be rash about what you do. You dont belong here Ty and you know it..so stop having a pitty party and stay strong. Dont give up yet, I'm in the same boat with you right now and I am working my tail off to make it all right again."

It didn't wait

Carson can't help a little smile, relieved that Misty had agreed to meet him. "No... I'll walk. Meet you at the park at... eleven?"

Finishing up the call, Carson hangs up, then gives a sigh. Well... that was that.

The rest of the morning seems to drag by. Though being a bit more efficient in his work and not so clumsy, every spare moment was spent glancing at the clock. Finally having enough, he tells Herb he'll be gone on a long lunch break and heads out, donning his denim jacket.

Walking to the park, a million and one things run through his mind, but the exercise helps to ease his tension a bit. Arriving and finding a park bench near the parking lot, he waits, and sure enough, Misty shows up on time.

Standing up, Carson his head as she nears, offering a small smile. "Hey." Letting his eyes linger on her face for a moment, a remnant of an old flame glimmers in his eyes. His hand moves forward, but then he thinks better of it, and puts it in his pocket instead. "Um... wanna walk?"

Starting forward, he takes a deep breath of the chilly air, looking around at the quiet park. Not many people were here today. "Misty..." He knew it was up to him to start the conversation. He was the one who had suggested their meeting today "I, um...guess I just had a few things I wanted to talk to you about." He shrugs. "I don't know why, I just... well... if we wanted to... I mean, us... or..."

Carson stops and rolls his eyes. "Okay, let me try this again." He gives a short laugh, throwing a sidelong glance in Misty's direction. “There’s a lot… about me that… I’ve never told anyone. And… I guess I want to be fair to you, Misty because I don’t know what any of this changes, if anything.”

He swallows hard, quiet for several moments, finally stopping at a bench and sitting down instead of continuing the walk. It had been so long…the memories had been too painful to dredge up. But they were still there…packed tightly away in boxes of misery.

“When I was just a kid, I…my dad was just a business man to me. I was too young to see anything but a dad who I wanted to be like.”

He stops and sighs deeply. “He, um…took me on some of his trips…to the big cities, or over here to the States. I thought it was fun…got to ride in style and stay at fancy hotels. Then, um…”

Carson pauses again as his mind tries to block the images that were seeping through. “Then it wasn’t just me, but he’d take a woman along with him. I was told my mother needn’t know. I was clueless, so I just obeyed.”

A dry laugh escapes, and Carson shakes his head. “I couldn’t have been more than ten years old…I don’t know if my dad knew all I saw and heard or not. At first it scared me, then I just got used to it…ignored it. I’m sure as a kid I sensed it wasn’t right, but it was my dad…he was perfect. So, that went on for years…whenever I’d go with my dad, I simply expected his “friend” to be along. I got used to seeing things I shouldn’t… being told things I shouldn't have heard... maybe some things would have been considered abuse, but I never told anyone about it.”

It was harder to stay on top of these emotions than he thought, and Carson battles back against the will to let them spill over. “Years passed…by the time I got into high school, I was…” His face reddens slightly. Though at the time he didn’t care, now he knew his faults. “…well…I guess I was taking after my father. I’m not sure anyone but my buddies knew what I was doing on the weekends…what girls I was with and...”

Another long sigh seeps out. He needn't explain what he meant. “I got caught by my dad once…I had a girl at home. But instead of kicking my butt like he should have, he let it go, making some comment that almost encouraged me to keep it up.”

Carson fidgets with a loose thread on his jeans. The memories were in full swing now. “About that same time my dad started getting generally abusive. He was a drinker…and he’d come home from work mad. He’d push mom around…he’d push me around…he’d push my older sister around, and then my little sister too. We all just took the punishment, but for some reason…I couldn’t stand him picking on Dani. I don’t know why…I’d gotten used to seeing my mom roughed up, or my older sister trashtalked. But Dani…maybe it was because she was so little, I don’t know. But every time she got a tongue lashing, she’d go crying to her room and I was the one to go see her, while Mum and Stacy were still arguing.”

Carson’s eyes lock onto nothingness, the scenes like a movie playing through his mind. It was as if he was in an entirely different world, sucked in by the memories…by a past that had been locked away and shoved into a dark corner.

“I was an expert at living two lives by then. Away from my family I was out drinking, hanging with the rowdy bunch, and getting my fill of any girls I could. While at home I was the devote son…Dani’s hero.”

A sorry chuckle proves the feeling of being so foolish. “Funny thing about the whole situation was, not only was I two different people, but half the time I loathed my dad for abusing my little sister, and half the time I still wanted to be like him. I guess I was looking for acceptance or something. I’d start getting Dani out of the house when I knew Dad would be home drunk. I could tell when he’d be out for more than just a tongue lashing, and I didn't want what happened to me to happen to her, so I’d sneak out the back with her so she wouldn’t have to endure anything else. She never complained…never said anything to anyone…I think she just blocked it all out…which was probably a good thing. I don't know how many times I wasn't there for her though.”

Carson feels like this was taking forever… it was like he was running in place while the memories were flying by him. He hadn't intended for this many details, but maybe they were needed.

“By the time I started working for the Agency, I was so messed up. I thought I was big stuff. And…sure enough, I continued to follow in my father’s footsteps, right down to the pretty secretaries that worked there. Oh, and they let me do whatever I wanted to do…they were luring me in…they had plans for me that I didn’t even know about. All the while, at home, I kept up the one side of being big hero brother…perfect son…ambitious young man.”

It’s several moments before Carson goes on, his eyes roaming the park. “Then everything went down at the Agency. My dad wasn’t a nice guy, but there were some illegal things he wouldn’t do, and he paid for it with his life. Him…Mum…and Stacy. I should have died with them that day…I was living an immoral life, and it was cowardice that saved my hide. All that was left after that was anger. I got Dani out of the country and…I don’t even know how I conformed to what the Agency wanted. I just…forgot about anything else I guess. I channeled my anger towards those I was supposed to torture and kill, and eventually that was simply who I was. Any trace of the innocent boy was gone. There was nothing left but a cold heart out to satisfy the desires of the flesh, and kill for a living.”

He shrugs lamely. “Some shrink would probably say I could blame my father for the way I turned out…but it was a choice…and I chose the wrong way. And now…now that I’m on the other side…it’s like I’m constantly playing tug-o-war with my old self. Every day it tries to pull me back in…everything I did…all my bad habits and…and addictions…they just hang on to me to the point where I finally just give in. And then…I lose everything. I figure out my mistake, pick myself back up and it starts again until finally I break under the pressure, tearing everything down all over again.”

He stops, the pain in his heart greater than he'd like to admit. "I've done a lot of changing, Misty. I got some good people who have been willing to keep me out of trouble, and it's helped. I'm... I'm finding God too I think, and that's taught me a lot."

Pausing again, he sorts out just what he's trying to say. "But even with all that... I don't know how long it will last. It's just a matter of time before I fail again."

The fear of his own self and his own decisions is evident in his tone. "No matter how hard I've ever tried, eventually, my pattern wins out and... I couldn't bear to put you through that again. Losing you was one of the most devastating things I've ever experienced. But I just... I'm afraid it will happen again."

Carson finally lets silence rule, not meeting Misty's eyes. Was he telling her it wasn't going to work between them? Was he telling her he couldn't do it? Was he telling her he did want to be with her, but with caution? He didn't know. But at this point he didn't have enough confidence in himself to think he could conquer his own pattern.


"Yo, Hero." Wyatt holds his phone to his ear as he steps out of TJY. "Yeah, just meet me at the jail. I'll wait for ya."

Flipping his phone shut, he gets to his jeep and heads downtown. Once there, he doesn't have to wait long until Katie arrives. Meeting her at the steps, he rolls his eyes. "What is it with us having to rescue this guy anyway? Cop said on the phone he tried to rob a convenient store or something, so I don't know what's up."

Getting inside, an officer can't give them any information, but directs them to the back, down the hall to one of the cells. There they find Ty, stretched out on a cot.

"Ty?"

Ty opens his eyes and turns his head, but doesn't rise. "Well... what do ya know... Wyatt and Katie. Hi, guys."

Wyatt quirks an eyebrow and looks at Katie, confused, then back to Ty. "What on earth are you doing here anyway? What happened?"

"Didn't you hear? Big robbery gone bad."

"Yes, of course I heard. Why do you think we're here?" Wyatt's annoyance rises. "What gives, Ty? What were you doing?"

Ty shrugs and closes his eyes again. "Guess this is where I belong."

"Ty! Come on!"

Ty shoots up, getting to his feet with a glare and stalking to the bars to face both his friends. "Alright, fine. I'm not good enough to be on the right side of the law. So I must belong here. At least in here they don't care if I can read or not."

Wyatt frowns, even more confused. "What on earth are you talking about?"

"Oh, didn't you know? Austin fired me."

"What?! When?!"

"Last night. Or rather... he thought it would be a good idea if I "quit" so he wouldn't "have" to fire me." The anger is dripping from Ty's tone. "Caught me trying to read a stupid letter and that was it."

"So you just figured you'd what? Go rob a store? Are you insane?!"

Ty smirks then walks back to his cot, flopping down. "Just leave me alone."

Wyatt blinks, not even knowing what to do. "Well I'm bailing you out, so why don't you just sit here and think about a better response for when I get back?" Frowning, he aims for the front office again. "Katie, stay here, will you? I'll be back. In the meantime, see if you can make any sense from this guy."


Several heads snap up as the mechanics realize Jess is there. All eyes glance to the outside where the car is, following her gesture.

Axel straightens up from the van, a look of surprise on his face, before a bit of confusion.

"Oooh, busted!" Leo teases. "You been working on that car, or just making it look good? Maybe you ought to give it one more try. Third time's the charm, you know." Before he can react, a rag lands on his head, hanging down over half his face.

A laugh escapes from Ron as he works on another vehicle, having seen Axel's good aim. "Nice wardrobe, Leo."

Axel keeps himself from grinning too much, wiping his oily hands on his already-dirty jeans. "Guess I better go see what I missed this time."

"No, wait!" Leo jumps in his way. "Let me get this one. You can't have all the fun."

"Fun?"

Leo gives him a knowing look. "Ask and you shall receive. Chick in distress, remember? You said she wasn't your girl, so I can have a turn, right?"

"Well I'm the one accused of missing something yet again."

Leo just stares at him, his eyes full of mischief. "Five bucks says if I work on the car, she won't be back for at least a month."

Axel straightens and crosses his arms, contemplating. He looks over Leo to see Jess waiting, then back to his friend. "You're on."

"Hot dog!" Leo claps his hands. "I'm gonna win this one. Just you wait." Trotting over to Jess, he retrieves the keys and gets to work.

Axel leaves the van for now and ambles slowly to the other end of the garage, stopping about three feet from Jess and cocks his head. Pulling his pocket watch out, he gives a faint smile. "Your car can't tell time. It didn't wait until noon."

Trouble again

Letting out a long sigh Jess stands outside the auto shop. Should she really go in? or should she just turn around and go to a differnt auto shop? Turning Jess looks back at her flat tire and shakes her head. This was silly why did she NEED a reason to see her friend? Jess wasnt sure but for some reason she felt like she did.

Finally opening the door Jess steps inside the shop and looks around. She had only been here twice but she could remember the layout with her eyes closed and there was never anyone at the front desk when you needed them.

Steping along side the counter she looks into the back shop giving a small wave to catch someone attachen seeing Axel she only hoped he would be the one to offer help.

"I...uhhh need some help please? I have a flat tire and there is a really strand rattaling sound in the back of my car."

Jess gives a thumb to out front where her car sat a little bit lopsided.

As Misty enters the infermary right as the phone rings she glances to make sure Rick got it. Heading to her desk she makes sure to hang her jacket up and thow her purse into her desk.

Standing once again to head to the breakroom Misty is stoped as Rick informs her of a phone call. Turning back around Misty gives Rick a nod and goes back to her desk picking up the phone.

"This is Misty how can I help you?"

Hearing Carson's voice on the other end Misty can't help but smile thought at the same time she was a bit saprised. It wasnt offten Carson called her let alone in the middle of a work day.

Giving a small laugh as Misty hears Carson trip over his words Misty found it a little cute continuing to listen to him. Though a strange ping hit Misty's heart she wasnt sure what it was. Pushing it aside Misty finally hears silence on the other end of the phone signaling her time to talk.

"I'd love to go to lunch with you."

Though you couldnt see Misty's face a smile was on it and the tone of her voice proved it.

" I can pick you up from work if you like?"

Groan Katie rolls over and picks up her phone. Hearing Wyatt's voice on the other end she sits up in bed rubbing her eyes. Silent for a moment she trys to let what Wyatt said sink in still kind of confused.

"What.....who.."

Looking at the clock Katie wakes up just a bit more and replays what was said finally getting it to register.

"Wait...what ho...yeah give me about 15 minutes to get ready."

Hanging up the phone Kaite hopes in the shower and gets ready. Throwing on a pare of jeans and a sweater. Keeping her hair down it was a little longer than normal but it was getting cold and it was nice to have something to get her neck and face warmth.

Stepping outside and headin to her car Katie pulls out her phone again and dials Wyatt's number

"Hey Wyatt its Katie...I am on my way where should I meet you?"

Questions

Watching Angelica leave, Reese can feel her own awkwardness, and suddenly feels badly, knowing it was his fault.

Walking her to the door, he opens his mouth to say something, but she bids him goodnight first. Her calling him by his last name hits him more strongly than it used to... it had been a long time since she hadn't used his first name.

"Goodnight..." His voice trails off. "...Angelica."

Giving a little sigh, he turns back around and closes the door. Leaning back against it, he glances around the empty house. For some reason it felt even more empty than it had an hour ago.


Some nights seem colder than others. And it's not because the temperature is lower, or the because the sun is further away. It's simply the nights when hearts are lonely. Minds are left to wander to places better left abandoned the way they were.

But even on nights like those, eventually the morning sun peeks through, relieving those weary souls and reviving them, bringing them in to a new day.


Axel yawns and reaches for a wrench, only to have it slip through his numb fingers and drop to the floor. Muttering, he rubs his hand, stretching out his fingers until he could feel again, before resuming his work.

"Grease, man, you alright?"

Axel looks up from the van's engine, throwing a smirk in Ron's direction. "Apart from feeling as though I could fall asleep right here? Yeah, I'm great."

Ron works at cleaning out a filter and shakes his head. "Long night?"

"You could say that."

"Hey, Axel!"

He turns in the other direction to see Leo just getting in to work. "Morning."

Leo throws his jacket over a hook and rolls up his sleeves. "What's on for today?"

"Well, we got this bucket of bolts right here..." Axel gestures to the van. "And... if we can get this going, the day is pretty clear."

"Wow. We need some chick in distress or something. It's getting boring around here."

Axel rolls his eyes, though when he turns back to the engine, a little smirk appears. "Just get over here and help me with this."


Carson ties his apron around his waist and jumps into work. At least this morning he'd been able to go jogging, make several stops and still make it to work on time. It felt odd needing to come to work... he was used to just rolling out of bed and being here.

Getting into the swing of things was a bit hard this morning though, even if he had gotten a good start. After dropping several plates, messing up an order and shutting his hand in the refrigerator, he finally opts to take a break, sheepishly apologizing to Herb.

But slipping out into the back hall, he leans back against the wall and closes his eyes, thinking. Other than the late-night fiasco with Dani, the rest of the night had been spent tossing and turning. His mind was so many different places at once, that it was giving him a headache.

Despite feeling halfway settled there was still a lot he had yet to work through. And one subject was just a little more complicated than the others. No matter how much he'd tried to avoid thinking about it the last couple days, he'd been unsuccessful. There was a certain thing that was unfinished, and he simply couldn't let it go.

Yet just the thought of pursuing it sent an odd chill down his spine. He knew what he wanted, but... what was realistic? What was possible? What would happen? Things had turned around so quickly...

Carson looks down and rubs his sore finger. He'd need the stitches out soon. If it hadn't been for that cut...

Rolling his his eyes, he finally moves down the hall to the phone. Picking it up, he dials before he can change his mind. Closing his eyes, he doesn't realize he's holding his breath.


"Hello?" Rick absentmindedly answers the infirmary phone, while trying to keep his eyes focused on his work. But without any sleep, it wasn't easy.

"Hey, Rick. Misty in?"

"Yeah, hang on, I..." Rick suddenly realizes that it wasn't common for Carson to be calling anymore. For just a moment, it had felt like old times. "I mean... yeah. Just a minute."


Carson twirls the phone cord around his finger, waiting. But when he hears Misty's voice, his mouth feels like he'd been sucking on a cotton ball. "Misty..." He clears his throat. "It's Carson. I, um... thought maybe today if you weren't busy, if, um... well..." A dry chuckle escapes. "Who'da thought I'd ever have trouble asking you to lunch?" He shakes his head, annoyed with himself. "I know you're busy, but... if you have time... thought maybe we could meet at the park or something. Supposed to be a nice day... maybe pick up lunch after or...something?"

He bites his lip and waits. He knew he missed Misty, and knew she'd wanted to see him again, but was this such a great idea? Yes... it had to be. There were things he needed to say, and he'd waited long enough.


Scott stirs, hearing voices around him, and slowly props himself up on an elbow, gradually pulling himself up into a sitting position. He felt like he'd been run over by a truck.

"Good morning, Mr. Johnson."

Scott blinks and squints up at Rick. "Hi."

"How you feeling?"

"Terrible."

Rick reaches down to check Scott's vitals. "You've been out for quite a while. Do you remember anything?"

Scott shakes his head. "Not really. Feels like a bad dream or something."

"Scott..." Rick grows a little more solemn, and eases down on the edge of the bed. "How are you really feeling? And I'm being serious about this."

Scott draws his legs up closer, his gaze dropping. "I don't know," he mumbles.

Rick isn't sure if he should really tell Scott what had happened last night or not, but at this point, he decided it was worth the risk. "You, um... were pretty determined in the middle of the night. I... thought for a minute you might not be here this morning."

Scott fidgets with his blanket, the look on his face proving that he remembered more than he was saying.

Rick sighs and reaches to bedside table for some papers. "You and I need to go over these sometime today, okay? Yesterday I met with a really nice young woman who..."

"A shrink."

"A counselor," Rick corrects, deciding that it was time he quit beating around the bush. "She wants to talk with you."

"Yeah... right."

"Scott." Rick's voice grows stern. "I'm not ready to give up on you, so you better not be ready either. Now I haven't had any sleep, I need a shower, I'm in a bad mood, and I'm not willing to argue with you. Do you understand me?"

Scott manages a slight glare, but doesn't fight back. Besides, what he was feeling right now wasn't fun... he knew he needed some way to get rid of what was going on inside of himself. "Fine."

"Good. Now... I'm going to get you a little breakfast... then I'm going home for a bit. I'll be back at lunchtime and we'll talk more."


“Wooee!”

Jen squeals and throws her arms around Kyle’s neck, hanging on for dear life as he spins her around. “Kyle!” She can’t help her laughter, despite the chiding. “Put me down!”

Giving her one last tight hug, Kyle finally relents, letting his sister sit back down on the couch, and he plops down next to her. “Why didn’t you call me?!”

“Because… I wanted to have it checked out first.” Jen’s eyes sparkle as she stares downward, looking at her feet move back and forth. “So the doctor said that he can’t explain it, but it had something to do with my fall and… apparently there’s a nerve connection again and….” Her face lights up. “I get to start more intensive therapy this week…. So I can walk again.”

The smile on Kyle’s face couldn’t be more genuine. “That is totally awesome. You do realize this.”

Jen laughs and nods. “I do.”

“See?” Kyle’s tone softens and he gives Jen a tap under her chin. “I knew you could do it.”

Jen looks at her brother with so much pride and so much gratefulness. “You’ve always been my biggest help, you know that?”

Kyle shrugs. “What can I say? I love my sister.”

Jen just smile and reaches out for another hug. Suddenly though, she draws away quickly. “Oh, but don’t tell Mike yet.”

“What? Why not?”

“I want it to be a surprise.” A bit of mischief shines in Jen’s eyes. “I wanna go through some therapy first and then…”

“Give the poor chap a heart attack, that’s what you’ll do.”

“Well at least I’ll have succeeded in making his heart stop somehow.”

Kyle’s eyes widen before another grin spreads. “I think you know good and well you’ve already accomplished that.”


"He what?!" Wyatt groans from his desk, throwing a glance in the head office direction. "Yeah, alright. I'll be there." Hanging up, he picks up the phone again, dialing quickly. "Katie? It's Wyatt. Listen, Ty's got himself into trouble. I gotta go down to the station. Want to come along?"