Sanity

Scott remains quiet for just another moment, almost embarrassed that he’d said anything. At Hope's question of whether or not it was a good thing though, for a split second, his wall is removed. Numbers he could always talk about. A faint but unmistakable chuckle surfaces. “Yeah, it's a good thing.... I see numbers,” he admits timidly, “…in everything. Even people.”

He traces the threads in his jeans with a finger, contemplating whether he should really elaborate or not. “The first number one… is because you see people as individuals.” He keeps his eyes lowered. “You treat them for who they are and not for who they’re with. Then… the seven… it can’t be divided evenly. You’re…”

He pauses, looking at his fingers to count, even though he's hesitant to voice his thoughts. “…compassionate… perceptive… intelligent, peaceful… thoughtful… inspirational and… determined. It shows you have many sides… but you can’t take away any of them, lest you take away a part of yourself.”

Scott shifts his weight, still refusing to look Hope in the eye. “And… you’re alone. That’s the point one. It’s a decimal, which means… it doesn’t have a great bearing on your life, but just enough to be visible. Whether it’s intentional or not, doesn’t make or break the number."

Another pause follows until he eventually looks up at Hope again, almost scared to think he might have just revealed an oddity about himself that might make her think twice about his sanity.


Axel grabs the phone as it rings, just having gone into the office to fill out some paperwork. Hearing Jess' apology, a wry grin forms. "Not even weathermen can tell when or where a storm will hit. And a rainbow's efforts to predict the storm is for naught, because it can only greet the dark clouds after the rain has passed - not before."

He lets a light laugh escape. "Don't worry about it, Jess. I wasn't even sure if it was a plan anyway."

Absentmindedly, he sifts through paperwork while talking. Her question if dinner makes him stop though, as if he's thrown for a loop. "Um... dinner? I... well..." He glances over his shoulder as he hears a noise in the shop. "Um. How about breakfast instead? Unless you have to be at work too early."

Even storms

Smiling and still confused Hope looks up at Scott watching as the wheels in his mind turned.

"Mmmm...well I am not sure what that number means, so what does it mean and is it a good thing?"

Hope continues to watch Scott enjoying this interaction with him. It was nice to see Scott out of his bubble. And though on the outside he looks the same, in his eyes Hope could see a small light.

Continuing to drive down the road Jess rings to one of the songs on the radio. Glancing out her side window Jess pass a pizza joint. Chinese food had been good today but maybe tomarrow she would get some pizza. The company of a rainbow might be nice too.

As if slapped in the face Jess eyes go wide for a moment. Crap...she had forgotten that she had told Axel she would meet him to lunch today and now she stood him up. How horrable she felt.
Pulling out her phone Jess dials the shop number and waits for someone to answer. Hearing Axel's voice on the other end Jess apoligses.

"I guess even Storms can make mistakes in the wind. I'm sorry I forgot about lunch today Axel. I could still use the company of a rainbow if you would like to do dinner?"

Because

"You're back early."

Axel rolls his eyes at Leo. "I'm late."

"Not if you were on a date."

"I wasn't on a date!" Axel throws his friend a warning glance. "Now cut it out."

Leo backs up a step. "Whoa, alright, alright. Chill."

Axel smirks at him, the glare dispersing. "If you'd pay as much attention to the cars as you do other people's businesses, you'd be a star mechanic."

Leo gives a cheesy grin. "Maybe I should be a journalist instead."

"Then let me be the first to say..." Axel lowers his voice to a whisper. "It's none of your business who I was with for lunch."

Leo laughs and shakes his head, getting back to work. "Alright, be that way. While you're at it, bring that old beater in here - she's yours to work on today."


Scott hesitates a moment and gives a little shrug, finally looking up at Hope to reply to her question. "Because... you're that number and... people like you are rare."

Added memorie

Enjoying the mean and Rocky Jess is content. The chatter continues between them as smiles and laughs are thrown around.

Though the time was fun like always it passed to quickly and before you new it, it was an hour past. As Rocky gets up in a hurt is makes Jess jump just a little untill she herself slides from the booth.

"Thank you for lunch Rocky. I had a good time."

Walking with Rocky outside Jess takes in a deep breath of fresh air before turning to Rocky one last time.

"I am sure you will be seeing me around. You might see Jemmm Ferchin too."

Chuckling Jess gets into her car and gives a wave to Rocky before driving off into the way they came.

The smile on Hope's face is a plesent one. Though Scott still did not talk to much about what happend to him she could see he was in face opening up more and becoming more comfortable around her. That in itself made her feel good.

"Well I dont care what others think, I know what I think and I would like that picture."

Looking at at the picture of Rosetta and Mick a smile pass over Hope's lips a little bigger thing time.

"Your a friend of my friends, I'd like to add your picture to my memories."

Giving a small nod as Scott says he much go Hope is about to say something though stops as he looks down at the pictures again. A bit saprised and confused about the number he just mention Hope decieds she would questions it.

"And why is it such a rare number?"

Rare

Rocky returns Jess' smile with his own. "I don't know what you're thanking me for, but I guess you're welcome."

During the rest of the meal, Rocky keeps conversation light, asking Jess more surface questions about a few of her likes and dislikes, concerning anything from food to music, and sharing some about himself too.

By the time he glances at his watch, his plate has been long-empty, and the lunch crowd has already dwindled. His eyes widen as he sees the time. "Ohhhh no." He grimaces. "I am so dead, and I'm sure I've made you late too. At this rate, I'll be on the road until six with deliveries."

Sliding from the booth, he grabs his hat to slap back on his head. Grabbing his wallet, he takes out enough money to pay for both meals. Heading off any refusal, he states simply, "My treat."

Smiling, he pauses, giving Jess a nod. "Been fun, Jess. See you around?"


Scott almost gives a scoffing laugh. "You may be photogenic, but I don't think anybody would want the face of me anywhere permanently."

Pausing, he traces the threads on his jeans with a finger. "Rick is waiting," he mentions quietly. He really didn't feel like talking much more today. He was getting even more tired, and a headache had formed.

Getting up from his chair, he takes one last glance down at the photos, then finally back to Hope. "Seventeen point one," he muses. "It's...a rare number."

Artist

Eating a little bit of her food Jess is a tad saprised when Rocky informs her that Carson had been the one who informed Rocky. In a way she felt a little betrayed that he would talk about it, but as soon as the feeling came the feeling passed as well. Jess had been close to Carson and he'd never done anything to harm her and was her friend. If Carson didnt trust Rocky that he wouldnt have said anything to him.

Giving a small smile to asure Rocky she was not to upset, but stays silent as she continues to eat her food. Listing to Rocky talk about his special spot Jess gives her head a little nod. She never really just stoped and looks at the stuff around her. She'd always though she was to busy for that not to mention to her eyes there wasnt much in this world that look pretty to her. Maybe it was the error of her own ways that blinded her eyes, or maybe it was simply the world was full of so much hate that it blocked out the nice stuff to some. But for some reason when Rocky said it, Jess could almost feel the warmth that raideated off of it.

Jess ear perk up at the mention of Rocky hanging out at her house again sometimes and that he liked playing cards. The look of excitment pass through Jess eyes as a grin curls on her lips.

"I think I would like that, but you better watch out I am pretty good at card playing."

Thanks back for a moment to the time when Carson and her use to practice. Another smile forming on her lips. A look passing through her eyes. A look of remembering. The past had been bad, but it had some bright spots that Jess would always remember.

"Thank you by the way Rocky."

Looking up Jess eyes meet Rocky's as a small fire burns in them. One that wasnt there before. Where it came from some might not know, but deep in Jess heart she new and it felt differnt, but good.

Seeing the grin on form slightly on Scott's face a flutter happens inside Hope's heart. With every passing moment, here and there she caught a glimps that what she was doing really was helping and it gave the the curage, and the confadince that was was doing on good.

Giving a nod Hope replys to Scott a bit of excitment in her voice.

"I'd like that, and thank you."

Hope thinks for a moment before speaking again.

"I'd like maybe a picture with you as well. Art of the artist is a good memorie."

Photogenic

Rocky grows quiet for just a moment, thinking as their food comes. Picking around his chicken, he finally looks up at Jess again. "I... have a confession to make."

A sheepish grin rises. "Carson and I had a nice chat last night, and... I asked him about who you were." His tone remains casual, his eyes still lit with interest, not disapproval. "I hope you're not offended. I just..." He shrugs. "...wanted to know more about you."

The look on his face shows sincerity. His intentions were pure. "As for not having a special spot, I didn't for a long time either."

Rocky shifts the conversation right back around again, always casual and warm, not missing a beat to draw attention to anything. "Then I discovered a little spot out on the river a ways from here. There's an old wooden dock at a nice gentle bend in the river. And on a nice day it's just a breeze and the sound of water and the sound of birds. Secluded from the world, and never closer to God."

His smile broadens a little. "I should take you there sometime. I don't mind sharing." A wink is quick to follow. "In the meantime though, next time I come over to your place, I could go a hand or two at a card game. All I've had to play with lately is Max and... he's not much of a challenge." He chuckles. His mention of going back over to Jess' place had just rolled off his tongue without a second thought.


Though Scott doesn't respond, Hope's words don't fall on deaf ears. Scott knows. He knows that even though he'd never felt lower in his life, that people around him still cared. Even though in his mind he didn't think it was worth living right now, somewhere, deep in his heart, he knew that there was a reason to go on. There was light under that door... that could only mean that something better really did exist.

Realizing that Hope had walked around to be in front of him, he raises his eyes just enough that he could see her own, and searches her face for a moment. Why did she care? What made someone like her want to help someone like him?

Even though he suddenly shuts down, unwilling to be open anymore for now, his eye seems to glimpse something more, almost like a realization of something he hadn't noticed before. An ever-so-slight grin curls the very corner of his mouth. "Next time I come..." He hesitates. "Can I take your picture? You're very photogenic."

Hope

Looking up quickly at Rocky's comment Jess locks eyes with him for a moment. She wasnt to sure but his comment made her wonder that he new about her more than she thought but how? Jess felt a bit at easy yet a bit uptight not even sure how Rocky new. Seeing the look on his fae and the smile though made her feel better that even though he new about he past it still did not bother him.
Still it bothered her, maybe she had yet to come to terms with it, or maybe it was just the shame she felt that haunted her still.

Looking down at her plate once again after Rocky's comment she is silent for a long moment. The look in her eyes was almost empty as if longing for something that just wasnt there. There was a feeling missing, an emotion that just was not known. Thinking for a long moment Jess finally looks up at Rocky again. A look of sadness, empty, and lonlyness pass through her eyes for only a bref moment as she replys.

"I, dont have any special spots I like to go, and I..like to play cards, but I havent played in a while. Other than that I work, come home..and thats it. Yesterday was the first time I ever had someone over to my house to just hang out that wasnt a boyfriend. I dont really have any friends."

Hope falls silent as her eyes follow Scott around the room. Listing to what he was saying Hope was glad he was opening up, but it stung even her to hear the words he said. So much he had bene through, so much pain...and all he was harboring inside. Hope new Scott must feel so alone in the world and lost.

As Scott sits down again Hope looks down at the pictures once more and than back up at her pashent.

"You are lucky to be alive Scott and that counts for something right? I know some days it feels like you wish you wernt alive but you have so many people who love you and care about you and a VERY happy that they still have more time with you."

Drawing silent again Hope searchs Scott's eyes.How she wanted to help him so bad and wish she could do more than she was.

"Even if you dont think so, you are a wonderful and smart person. Don't let them win this one. So far I have enjoyed getting to know you. I can only imagen how those who have known you longer must care for you. You might feel alone but your not. Your friends, and the people who care are with in your reach, you just need to find the curage to take the first step again to open the door holding the light."

Standing Hope walks to the front of her desk and leans on it for a moment before squating down in front of Scott.

"The path lays infront of you Scott. I am simply here to help you along the way.With out even relizing it you have started to take the steps already, and even though they are small they are apart of the big picture and I am so proud of you."

Hope offers Scott a soft smile.

Unfolding

Clint musters up the best reassuring smile he can for Wendy. "Don't think twice about me being tired, alright? I'm just fine."

He gives her a little squeeze. "Yes... we do have the rest of our lives together, and I'm very much looking forward to it."

Leaning down he gives her a tender kiss. "No matter what happens, we have each other."

Finally he withdraws, even though he doesn't want to. "I need to keep working on that engine... If you need anything juts let me know, okay?"


Rocky keeps his gaze on Jess as she talks, truly interested in every word she said. As she allowed him any questions, he just studies her for a moment. An uneasiness had risen - one that hadn't been there before he'd asked her about herself.

"I just want to know what makes you you today, Jess," he responds. His voice is gentle...almost reassuring for some reason - as if he knew more than he had let on. The corner of his mouth upturns slightly, proving no displeasure. "You don't have to be afraid of the past - I'm certainly not." It was suddenly clear that he knew. Somehow he knew about Jess' immediate past.

Interrupted by the waitress again, it's several minutes before Rocky revisits their conversation, but he moves on as if there had never been a break. "Boring or not, you have to do something for fun," he prompts. "What do you like to get out and do? Where are your favorite spots to go?"


Scott can't help the brief look of surprise when Hope asks to keep some of the pictures and he just shrugs. "I don't care," he answers. "There's no reason for me to keep them."

Still quiet, he almost doesn't seem to hear Hope ask how he is. But finally he stands up, wandering back to the window he'd been drawn to the last time he'd been here. How was he? "I'm tired and sick to my stomach," he finally replies.

After a moment, he turns around, leaning his back against the wall beside the window and finally looking at Hope. "Not much different than any other day after another night of nightmares. I've come to expect nothing more."

He turns back around, his eyes seeing his own reflection in the glass. Slowly, his hair was getting a little longer. The markings on his face from the beatings were receding. If he weren't so gaunt, he might almost recognize himself.

"They didn't even plan on taking me, you know..." He had no idea why he was talking about this. She hadn't asked. He still hadn't even told anyone the whole story, or even written up the report he'd been asked to. But he was so tired of reliving it every night. Every night, the whole thing played through his mind over and over again. The images were a horror he despised.

His voice is so quiet, one would have to strain to understand. "The Agency watches everyone... all the time. I wasn't supposed to live through that explosion. I should have died."

He sees it again as if it had just happened yesterday. He could still hear the desperate voices of his team over the mic, urging him to get out of the house. "I tried to get out." His eyes have lost their life and he stares into nothingness. "There was someone who had already been shot... he was dead... blood everywhere."

Scott swallows hard. "I couldn't get out.... the house was locked down. But I remembered a passageway in the basement I'd see in the blueprints. I almost made it. The pressure from the bomb sent me in the rest of the way. When I woke up, my left eye's sight was gone - it had been a piece of debris. I don't know how long I'd been in there... but I crawled the rest of the way until I came out at the other end. It was several blocks away in an empty lot. I didn't know what was going on, so when someone offered to help, I didn't refuse. I blacked out. I didn't know it was the Agency. By the time I woke up, we were halfway to...their setup. And it was too late...I couldn't escape."

The rest was too horrific for him to want to talk about. It still hurt too much. It still frightened him too much. He had seen so much and experienced so much that it made him sick just thinking about it. Scott just stands, a picture of sheer despair of one who had given up all hope... of one whose fight was completely gone.

Eventually he turns back around to wander back to Hope's desk. Reaching down, he finds the picture of the broken mirror and picks it up, just looking at it. He sets it back down, then once more sits on the edge of a chair, his head hanging.

How are u

Wrapping her own arms around Clint Wendy nuzzles her face into his shoulder. Some might think she was strange for even bothering to hug him when he looked and smelled like grease, but to Wendy it was almost a comfort. Knowing he was close, and smelling him was almost soothing to her and she didnt mind it a bit.

" I know you do, and I love you very much as well. I know your so tired all the time, and this is all alot of stress on you. So I try not to worry about it to much. We have the rest of our lifes together right. So I figured a little sacrifice now is ok."

Wendy is silent for a moment as many things run through her mind. Moving her head just a little Wendy looks Clint in the eyes giving a smile.

"Thank you Clint."

Drinking her eat and taking a few bits of food here and there Jess listens as Rocky talk a little about himself. As the questions turns to her Jess can feel herself become a little bit nervouse. She still wasn't use to shearing her story with many people. But keeping her cool Jess knows that sooner or later this question would of come up.

Giving a grin Jess voice is laced with a bit of humor as she replys to Rocky.

"Well I dont know much about Jemmm Ferchen but...I do know a little about Jessica Fisher."

Jess cant help but chuckle again taking another sip of her tea.

"My life is pretty boring. You know where I work, I come home...dont really have any friends I had out with. I use to date Carson, I met Axel, met you...work and go home. Life is pretty boring for me now. But I dont mind to much."

Jess hopes maybe that will satisfy Rocky for now without giving to many details on her past. Jess didnt know why but talking about it still made her a bit uneasy though sooner or later she would tell him.

"Lets see...what alse would you like to know?"

Hope listens to Scott as he describes the pictures taking in his every word. How he described the pictures was so deep and for a moment Hope could see maybe a glimps of who the real Scott was.

Waiting for him to finish talking Hope smiles and looks up at him. A glint of amazment in her eyes.

"You have quite an eye I can tell you that. These could pass as being done by a perfeshinel. Do you mine if I keep a few to hang on my wall?"

Hope continues to offer Scott her friendly smile. All she wanted was him to feel comfrotable. Talking would come naturly once he was.

Waiting before she continues again she looks down at the picture of the light under the door, the bars on a window and the smashed merror. The pictures said more than one would think.

"How have you been today Scott?"

Beauty

Clint finally smiles down at Wendy, moving one hand to cradle her face. Pulling her up out of her chair, he wraps his arms around her in a strong hug.

"I love you... you know that, don't you?" He leans back to see her face, his arms still around her. "I... I'm sorry I haven't been great company lately.

He bends to rest his forehead against hers. "I'll try harder to be here for you, okay?"


Rocky can't help but laugh as he shakes his head. "Ah, but my punctuality has nothing to do with extenuating circumstances. I am always on time. It's my vehicle that arrives late."

Tossing her a wink, he takes a sip of his water. "Never thought I'd be back in the grind of things like this after traveling with the band. But... I think I like it." He shrugs. "Not that sitting in a delivery truck and running like the dickens all day is my ideal for a job, but... it's not that bad. This is home... can't help but like it."

He cocks her head. "Enough about me though. I want to know more about Jemmm Ferchen."


Scott leans forward a little to see the pictures that Hope had separated from the others. He looks at them for a minute before shrugging and sitting back again, reaching up to rub his blind eye without even realizing it. "I don't know."

He's silent for several long moments. While some might just think he's sitting without a thought at all, those watching closely would be able to tell that his lack of body movement did not signal a lack of thinking - his mind was indeed working, and at a level that most people wouldn't even comprehend. He understood perfectly well about the pictures and Hope's methods. It wasn't a foreign concept, nor was it something he questioned - he was intelligent enough to figure it out, even if he wasn't allowing himself to let his thoughts show.

Finally though, he stands up, taking a step to Hope's desk. Looking down at the three chosen pictures, he points to the one of Misty first, his thin finger mapping it out.

"She's walking away from me," he explains quietly. "Leaving. She has a goal... a destination. But all that's left for me are shadows because..."

Scott stops. He might be able to pretend that he had no idea why he'd taken the pictures. In reality, he really had just taken them on the spur of the moment. But he couldn't fool himself. He knew good and well why he'd taken each one. "...because I'm just standing still," he finally finishes.

Moving to the next, his finger touches the one of the tree branches. "There's light up there... somewhere." The sun could barely break through the limbs. "But it's a tangled mess to get there... a maze... the tree won't open up on its own. If you want to see the light... you'd have to climb higher and higher until all the branches were behind you and you were looking at the sun full in the face, soaking in the warmth, and celebrating the triumph of making it to the top."

He suddenly stops again, his eyes still refusing to meet Hope's. A bit of color comes to his face as he realizes how much he'd just said.

Quickly he gestures to the last picture. "It is beauty. It sits alone... overlooked... forgotten... but it's there, sitting quietly... waiting to be picked up by someone who cares."

Swallowing hard, Scott backs up and sits back down in the chair, stuffing his hands into his hoodie pockets.

Captured

Putting her arms around Jason Katie returns his kiss. Her mind falling silent for a moment as she just takes in the moment. Than finally it starts back up again.

Half teasing and half meaning it Katie gives a small chuckle.

Yeah it does just don't let it go to your head.

Finally pulling away Kaite just smiles at Jason for a moment trying to put her mind to rest. Everything would work out right? She would just have to have faith in him. He never let her down before, and she always had turn in him. This was not the time to start losing it.

"Mmmm...lunch sounds good."

Smiling back at Rocky Jess face lights up with a bit of color. She couldnt help it, it was something that just happend alot more recently.

"I am doing ok. Work wasnt as busy as I though it was going to be, hence why I am here and the back roads arnt so bad at this time of day so I didnt have to deal with any of the people."

Taking a sip of her tea Jess is silent for a moment just taking in the sounds around her. A small grin forms on her lips.

"So, I though being a delivery man you would know how to get places on time?"

Jess cant help the chuckle that escaps her lips. Thinking about it she really did know much about Rocky to be able to talk with him about much more than just work. Maybe after today she would know a little more.

Looking up from her desk Hope smiles as she see Scott. It was good to see him again and nice that he came back. She had hoped he would for his own sake.

"Afternoon Scott. How are you feeling today?"

Seeing the envilop in Scott's hand Hope's face lights up. It was good to know that Scott had found the inshitive to go out, and do something other than sit inside all day. She had hoped he would, not only was it something he loves that helped open him up without even saying any words, but it help him feel a tad bit comfortable with getting some fresh air.

Gently taking the envilop from Scott Hope pulls out the pictures. Flipping through them Hope's nods her head and smiles finding each over very intersting and the moment of the picture captured to perfection. Scott had a great eye for pictures that Hope noticed. A few of her own conclutions were drawn from the pictures but she wanted Scott to tell her more.

Laying the photo's in front of her Hope studys them again for a moment before finally looking up to Scott. Pointing to the picture of the young woman and then the picture of the tree branches intertwining together, than the rose Hope questions.

"These pictures , what do there represent to you? Why did you capture them in time?"

Feeling Clint's hands on her shoulders Wendy can't help the smile that forms on her face. No matter what, and now matter how much she was scaired without her mom around Clint did make her feel better when he was around.

Putting her hand on top of his Wendy is silent for a moment. There really was nothing anyone could do. She had to deal with this and work through it the best way she could.

"How about a hug? Your good at those and I could use one!"

Wendy smiles up at Clint. The tired lines under his eyes showing. Wendy had felt bad that Clint wasnt sleeping well latly. It was hard, it was hard for them both but Wendy felt more sorry for him than she did herself.

Lunches

Jason nods a little to Katie, knowing that this was something that couldn't be, and shouldn't be kept a secret. "Yeah... I'll tell everybody. I just want to let it sink in first. Get my head on straight. No use in starting out on the wrong foot."

As Katie comes around to rub his shoulders, for the first time in a long time, he relaxes, leaning back against her. There was so much turmoil going on inside of him. So much confusion. So much pain and anger he had yet to let go of. But right now... for just a few moments... there was some relief.

Grinning at her comment, Jason swivels around to pull Katie into his lap and lean his forehead against hers, looking he in the eye. Humor danced.

"You, take orders from me? That'd be the day." He laughs softly. "You telling me what to do is more like it."

Knowing there was probably a smart remark coming, he gives her a quick kiss instead to keep her silent.

Jason Stevenson, Elite Chief. Kinda has a nice ring to it, don't you think?

Pulling back, he sighs, though a strange determination has formed, with an edge that one might sense as pride... perhaps a haughty pride though. "Austin thinks I can't handle this - otherwise he wouldn't have just thrown it at me like this. But I'll show him... I can do more than he thinks I can... I'm stronger than he thinks I am... I'm not the same little boy anymore. I should take advantage of this development, not let it scare me."

He nods to seal his decision. "Now, as for you..." Jason stands up, letting Katie slide off his lap. "How would you like to be the first to have lunch with the chief, hmm?"


Rocky slips into the Chinese restaurant and is greeted by a waitress. He's just about ready to go to a new table, when he spots Jess. A smile comes, and he tells the waitress he's with somebody.

Arriving at the table, Rocky slides in across from Jess and takes off his baseball cap, running a hand through his hair. "You're pretty and punctual," he teases. "That makes a good combination, but makes me look bad."

Interrupted, he orders a glass of water to drink, then looks back to Jess. "So after almost getting attacked by a dog, cut off by a stupid driver, stuck behind a slow-moving vehicle and got yelled at because someone thought their package should have arrived sooner... I think I'm ready for lunch."

His eyes dance teasingly. "How about you?"


Scott approaches Hope's desk, a small packet of pictures clutched tightly in his hands. He'd been a few minutes late for his appointment after his stop with Rick had taken longer than he'd thought it would. Being allowed to simply go into Hope's office instead of waiting, he'd been hesitant, but had gone in bravely, unsure what this session would bring.

Clearing his throat, he stands awkwardly for a moment, reaching up to push his glasses up farther on his nose. At least today he could see things a little better with his one eye.

"Hi," he greets quietly. His eyes don't settle on Hope's face. "I, um... took some pictures like... like you wanted.

Opening up the envelope, he pulls out several pictures and set them down on her desk. That had been his sole purpose for coming again. He'd set out with a goal, accomplished it, and now was presenting it to Hope. He wasn't sure what she really wanted from them, so he simply remains quiet.

Retreating, he sinks down onto the edge a chair, folding his hands in his lap and keeping his eyes busy with studying the floor or walls.

The pictures had been taken with black and white film. The first appeared to be either a sunset or a sunrise, light just barely peeking up above the horizon. Long shadows were drawn from the trees, darkening the scene.

Another picture illustrated a young woman, some would recognize as Misty. Her back turned, she walked away from the camera, her hair blowing in the wind, her own shadow going before her.

Another snapshot was simply of a closed door. It was dark, but light was shining from underneath the door, spreading a soft glow to the foot of the picture.

The next photo was one of a small window, appearing to be one up high near the ceiling - a short one, signaling that it might be from a basement. Bars kept the panes safe from being opened. The room was dark, while light awaited outside, beyond reach.

After that, was the image of a rose. It sat alone on someone's desk, brought into clear focus while the background remained blurred. Its petals were soft, almost reflecting the light, standing out as a beautiful portrait of the delicate strength it represented.

A picture of an empty parking lot came next. It evoked the feeling of emptiness, a lonely scene as a leaf blew past the barren ground.

Next was a photo that one might have trouble figuring out. But soon it would become clear that it was a shot of a tree, from the angle of one lying on their back and looking up through the branches that created a gnarled web, the sun just barely peeking through the tangled limbs.

Last was the picture of a broken mirror. The shattered, angled fragments revealed the weary photographer in pieces, multiplied by each slice of glass, but never seen in whole.

Scott fidgets in his seat. He hadn't thought a whole lot about the pictures he'd taken, but was a little leery of someone dissecting them. He was a might leery about being here again at all, though this time he hadn't balked as much, proving he really did want to try, even if he was scared.


Axel sighs a little and leans back in his seat at the pizza place. He glanced at his watch. It was a little later than he normally ate, but he'd hung out at the shop for a while longer this morning before finally venturing out to the small restaurant. The smell of pepperoni and tomato sauce wafted through the air. He'd had enough to eat already though. Several slices had been plenty, and now he was just passing the time.

Taking another sip of water, he waits, unsure if he should stay any longer or not. There was a feeling of disappointment that he was trying to shove aside. He'd already rolled his eyes at himself over it, because it was his own fault. He'd made an assumption that he shouldn't have, and had taken a statement for granted. He should have called first. And he certainly shouldn't have assumed he was so important that the casual remark hadn't been any more than that - a casual remark.

"Maybe tomorrow I can see a double rainbow at lunch. I heard that pizza place down the road is not too bad."

Oh well. His mistake. It wasn't the first time. He didn't like it that it bothered him though - it shouldn't. There was no reason for it to when it was his own silly fault for assuming things.

Standing, he grabs the bill to go pay. Next it was a quick walk back to the shop. He'd be getting his car at about two o'clock, so he at least needed to be back for that.


Clint works in the engine of a car, growing more and more frustrated with a part that he couldn't take out. His wrench slips and his hand gets jammed in a small space, sending pain through his fingers.

Letting out a wail, he withdraws quickly, his tool clattering to the floor. Muttering under his breath, he wipes the sweat from his brow. He was so tired... he couldn't concentrate on anything. He had a splitting headache and all he wanted to do was go crawl into bed. The lack of sleep was getting to him, whether he wanted to admit it or not.

Signing, Clint heads for the office to wash the welt on his hand that had started to bleed. Stepping inside, he's surprised to see Wendy. He hadn't seen or heard her come in. Of course... he was so tired, he wasn't paying that much attention to anything at the moment.

Just standing a moment, he watches her quietly, his shoulders dropping slightly. He knew she hadn't been feeling well. He knew she was scared without her mom around. It was all his fault.

He wipes the small amount of blood off onto his jeans and ambles up behind Wendy, setting his hands on her shoulders to give her a gentle massage. "Hey you," he greets quietly. He leans down to give the top of her head a kiss. "Can I do anything for you?"

How many?

Not even being able to answer before Rocky is out the door Jess just shakes her head. She didn't even know if she would have time to go to lunch today or not, but obviously Rocky didn't want to wait and hear no as the answer.

Shaking her head the smile lingers on Jess face. It was a nice break in the day to see a friendly face and if she could find the time for lunch she would replay Rocky by meeting him. Getting back work Jess cant help the tiny bit of brightness that was left on her face.

The smile stays on Katie face though in the moment she had being a little excited about now having TJY back to normal a suddon worry came over her. Not that Jason wouldnt be a good leader but a worry that maybe...maybe she wasnt even sure but something didnt feel right. It felt almost as if the storm cloude was looming stuff collecting what it needed before it broke.

"No, I dont think anyone will throw you to the wolfs at all. But I do think they have a right to know."

Giving a small sigh Katie straghtens in the chair she had clamed at her own. Just stairing at the floor for a moment before looking up again and meeting Jason's eyes.

"Ok, I wont tell anyone yet but don't wait to long before you do tell them. It sure would be nice to have Reese and Ty back. Even if Reese is a pain in the butt sometimes. I know you will do whats right and will make a good leader."

Standing Katie walks over to Jason and gently places her hands on his shoulders as she gently rubs them. A small chuckle escaping her lips.

"I don't believe I am going to be taking orders from you now. Who would of thunk."

Entering the tiny Chinese restront Jess looks around for a moment to see if Rocky was there yet.
The rest of her morning had gone pretty smoothly. It wasnt as busy as Jess though it would of been today but she didnt mind much, the slow time was what gave her the chanse to be at lunch right now.

"How many?"

A woman startles Jess breaking her from her train out though but quickly smiles at her than looks back to all the people scaning the face once more. Not seeing Rocky yet she decieds it couldnt hurt to find a table and wait.

"Two but my friend is not here yet."

Giving a nod the waitress mostions for Jess to follow taking her across the restront floor and to a booth in the back.

"Can I get you something to drink while you wait?"

Sliding into the booth Jess starts to take her jacket off replying to the woman.

"Yes please some hot tea would be nice."

Once the woman walks away Jess glances at the door once more and than waits looking down at her placemate reading what was on it.

Slowly making her way into the shop Wendy slips into the office for the most part unoticed. Her body acked, she had gotten sick the morning, all she wanted to do was sleep..today was not her morning and she new that it was only going to get worse before it got better. Not to mention not having her mom around the ranch in case something happend frightend her just a little. It had been a while since she started stay at the ranch all the time now, and she had gotten use to the normal day in and day out ruteen. Knowing her mom was always just footsteps away if she needed she was a comefort. But now she was so far away and Wendy couldnt help but worry.
Wendy could only hope that keeping herself busy with work would put her mind at ease and make time move faster.

Mountain dew

Rocky’s eyebrows lift just a little at Jess’ remark about not going out to lunch with the delivery man, and for just a moment, he believes her until he sees her trying to hide her smile.

Leaning against the desk, he folds his arms across his chest and waits until she looks up again. Her mention of a rock star makes him laugh. “Well, I don’t see any rock star around here.” He looks over his shoulder as if making sure. “But if you don’t mind me as a substitute…”

His smile is aimed at her. “Chinese buffet… at noon.” The beeper on his belt goes off, and he looks at it quickly. “In the meantime, I gotta scoot. I expect to see you there.”

He throws Jess a wink before heading out the door.


Jason stares at Katie, letting her suggestions sink in. And at first, it sounds great. But then something else appears in his mind, and he stops himself from getting too excited.

“I don’t know, Katie, I mean… maybe I need to think about these things first, ya know? I don’t think anybody is gonna throw me to the wolves when they find out what happened here, but… I think maybe I should be a little more cautious about things. Maybe sit on it a while.”

An old pride had suddenly emerged through the other emotions. It was an old feeling that had at one time driven him to excel and driven him towards the ultimate goal of leadership. He’d settled eventually, satisfied with his other roles. But today… today that old goal had been handed to him free and clear. There were things even Reese had done that Jason hadn’t liked. Could he now change those things? Wouldn’t bringing Reese back just complicate things? A part of Jason wanted to see if he could do this on his own first. He liked Reese, but he wasn’t sure he’d like all the free advice that would come along with rehiring him.

Jason’s eyes suddenly meet Katie’s again, and he knew that these thoughts and feelings had seeped out. He didn’t mean them to be bad, or arrogant… they were just what he felt, and he didn’t want to be too hasty in making decisions.

“I… I don’t want to tell everybody yet. I want to think first.”


Carson enters the Mom and Pops kitchen quickly, out of breath from hurrying in through the back. “Sorry I’m late, Herb,” he apologizes. It had been quite a while since he’d been late, so he knew he’d be forgiven this morning. He hadn’t needed to be here early, but he was still a good hour late.

Throwing on his apron, he tries to get his bearings. It looked like a busy morning. His mind is tired though, and it’s hard to concentrate. The night had been long. After finally getting to bed, his mind hadn’t wanted to shut down. Thoughts were of the holdup, and of the words Axel had spoken to him.

The mess in the front still bothered him. Though the plastic over the window didn’t seem to bother customers any or slow them down. And at least this time it wasn’t his fault. And at least Herb hadn’t seemed worked up over it.

But really, that whole situation wasn’t nearly as troublesome as what Axel had said to him. Had Axel been right? And even if he had been, what did it mean?

A small pang hits Carson’s heart. A longing stirred – one that he’d succeeded in thwarting… one that he’d succeeded in burying deeply enough that it would quit bothering him. But now… now he questioned everything.

He pauses a moment while chopping peppers. He’d meant to call Misty this morning, but had forgotten in his mad rush to get here. Maybe he’d call her for lunch. Or maybe… he didn’t know. He wasn’t sure of anything anymore.


Kyle sits on the park bench, bent with his elbows resting on his knees. He should go home. But he didn’t want to. He should be out searching, but he had no motivation. After five years… after building up trust and a good reputation… after earning his way up to management… this morning felt like more than a slap to the face. It was more than a hit to his ego.


Phil runs a comb through his hair, and heads for the answering machine. He’d heard the phone ring a few minutes ago, but had been in the shower. Hitting the play button, he waits, then is confused as he hears the male voice for Kyle. It was Shane. But… what did he want? Phil didn’t know their old friend had been hanging out with Kyle at all, but… He lifts his eyebrows at the mention of “tonight’s workout.” Then it hits him. Shane used to do karate. The pieces suddenly begin to fall into place. Kyle hadn’t been with Rocky all these late nights. He’d obviously been physically active. But… he hadn’t taken an interest in karate since he’d been a kid, and even then, it hadn’t been all that serious. Why this, why now?

He shrugs and leaves the message for Kyle. His brother had been quiet and evasive lately. It was odd, but… who was he to stick his nose in? His questioning had only led to arguments thus far.


Finally arriving home, Kyle walks in the door and simply heads to the living room, sinking down into the couch, not even bothering to take off his jacket.

Phil is just ready to head out for the lumberyard, but stops, looking at the clock. “Kyle?” He himself was heading in for a later shift than normal, but Kyle was supposed to be at the Pizza Box right now. “Kyle, what are you doing home?”

Kyle leans his head back to stare up at the ceiling. “I’m sitting on the couch. What does it look like I’m doing?”

Phil frowns. “Why aren’t you at work? Off early?”

“Yeah, something like that.”

Phil doesn’t trust his brother’s tone. “What do you mean?”

“I got fired, alright?”

Phil’s jaw drops. “What? Why? What happened?”

“Somebody stole some cash. Nothing could be proved. No one came forward. It was either me or the other guy, so we both got sacked.”

“Aw, Kyle.” Phil was genuinely sorry. His brother had held that job for quite a while. But faithfulness meant nothing to new management. “Now what?”

Kyle shrugs lamely. “They’re not pressing charges, so… I guess I find another job.”

Phil sighs deeply and eases down across from his brother, forgetting about his own work right now. It could wait. This was more important. “So you’re with two bands now, you quit the worship team at church, you’ve picked up karate again…”

Kyle lifts his eyes. “Figured it out, huh?”

“Yeah.” For the first time in a long time, Phil felt the opening to talk. Perhaps it was because Kyle was low from losing his job. “What’s really going on? Why all the changes?”

Kyle shrugs again. “Just… looking for something different I guess. Trying to get out of the same old mold.”

“I get that. But why all the secrecy?”

Kyle lets silence fill the gap for several seconds. “Guess I just wanted to do things on my own terms. I’m me… I do the things I want to do, and quit worrying about other people’s opinions or criticisms.”

Phil frowns. “I’m sorry you feel that way about me… and Jen… and Mike… and Jason.”

Kyle sighs. “I didn’t mean it was your fault. I just… I don’t know. I was wrong, and I’m sorry.” He gets to his feet, taking off his jacket. “Now I need to look for a job.”

Phil’s window of opportunity was gone. “You be alright?”

Kyle lets out a laugh. “As if I’m the first person to ever lost his job.” He smirks. “I’m fine. You better go though, or you’re going to be out of a job too.”

“You sure you’re alright?”

Kyle approaches his brother, leaning down to look him closely in the eye. “Phil Mitts… I am fine.” Humor sparks in his eyes. “Don’t make me wrestle you to prove it, because I’ll win.”

Phil relents and laughs, shaking his head. “Do you ever settle down?”

“Nope.” Kyle straightens and bounds into the kitchen. “But I do need some mountain dew to help me through!” He skids to a stop in front of the refrigerator. “Hey… that rhymes. Phil! I got our next new song!”

Phil rolls his eyes and heads for the door. “Great, Kyle. Don’t take too much sugar, alright? I want this place in one piece when I get back.”

“Yeah, yeah…” Kyle holds the fridge door open, until he hears Phil leave. But once alone, he lets the door fall shut, his shoulders dropping again. Instead of getting on the internet, or looking a the paper for jobs, he goes to his room and flops down on his bed.

Rock Star

Hearing about the new developments is almost like a ton of bricks to Katie. Slowly moving to one of the chairs Katie sinks down almost stunned. This had happend so fast and non of it made sence. Looking into Jason's eyes Katie trys to look for answers but comes up with nothing.

"Your...in charge?"

Katie lets the information sink in for a moment before saying anything alse. So much could change again.

"J do you know what this means? We can higher Reese and Ty back again. No one has to worry about getting fired. J...things can go back to normal. We can fix things."

A big smile spreads across Katie's face as she thinks about everything. About how less stressful things will become again.

"First thing first I think we should tell everyone whats going on."

Giving a smile Jess shakes her head. Rocky certinly did have a good sence of humor she did have to give him that.

"Yeah I could see how a nice day can help. Though I wouldnt know, I was here at 5 am this morning and it was a bit cold than."

At Rocky's invatation a small sassy smile forms on her lips. Lunch would be intresting and might even be fun. Though she couldnt give in so quick, she wanted to make him think a little first.

"Well I am not so sure about lunch. Its not normal for me to go out with the delivery men."

Looking back down at her paper work another smile forms on her lips though she trys to keep a straght face. Looking up again her eyes meet Rockys as her own softness lays behind them in a misterous mannor.

"But a certn rock star...I might be intersted in having lunch with him."

Better

Jason is still sitting behind Austin’s desk when Katie comes in. He looks up at her, his eyes searching for anything that made sense.

“I…I don’t know,” he answers lamely. For a few moments, his shock overrides the other emotions he’s feeling. He was too confused right now to be angry. "I..."

He blinks and just stares up at Katie. "How did... what...." He tries to clear his mind. "I'm in charge of the Elite." His own tone indicates the confusion, and amazement that he was suddenly in this position.

"I'm... in control? Chief?" He pauses again, thinking. "What... I mean... holy cow, Katie."

Despite the tenseness, a bit of humor slips through. "Guess I can change the rules about making it to work early every day."

He tries to laugh a little, but then just shakes his head. "What do I do?"


Rocky chuckles and takes the small clipboard back. "Well, my day is going w..." His voice trails off and he quirks his eyebrow as he stares at Jess' signature. "I take back what I said. I really did forget your name. This says Jemmmm Ferchen..."

Looking back at her, he grins, the humor twinkling in his eyes. "My day is going just fine. The weather is nice out there, so that helps."

Pausing for just a moment, he cocks his head. "It would be going even better if you agreed to meet me for lunch."

Good Luck

Smiling as Katie receves the rose a smile spreads on her face. Jason and herself hadnt talked this much since this morning but she didnt mind to much. She was still pretty tired fomr the preious events.

No need to thank me J. I'd go to the end of the earth for you. You mean alot to be and it has just become second nature.

Smiling up at him Austin's harsh voice makes her jump. She turns her head fast just eyeing him for a moment. So much stress had beening happening as of late and most of it had started when Austin had taken over.

As Jason turns to leave Katie relays a quick message.

Good luck J keep you cool.

As Jason leaves Katie lets out a long sigh. She couldnt help he feeling of dread that came over her. She felt like something was going to happen, something bad. Trying to get back to work Katie just cant consintrat as many feelings were ranging inside Jason but where not being shaired. Katie hated the feeling of running into a wall and that was just as bad as getting to many feelings to fast but there really was nothing alse she could do.

...Looking up quickly from her desk again as the door to Austin's offince slams Katie is saprised to see Austin storming out of the TJY building. A wave of worry flashs over Katie. Searching her feeling fast she trys to find out what happend but only gets bits and peaces along with Jason message.

J...what happend? Whats going on? Got yourself into what?

Searching a little more Katie looks for more answers finally gathering enough infor to understand what was going on. Almost stunned Katie is silent for a moment before relaying anything to Jason.

Austin...quit? Wha....

Quickly getting up from her desk Katie is to tired to try and relay anything more to Jason through emotions as she was still getting his own feelings she had to save her strangth. Heading for Austin's office Katie enters and closes the door behind her.

"Jason...what..what now?"

Looking up from her desk Jess see the delivery man enter into the office. Thinking nothing of it she goes back to work like normal. Its not untill Jess hears Rocky's voice does she relize who it is.

Lifting her head slowly a smile spreads across her face. Shaking her head she gives a small chuckle.

"No your not going crazy nor have you forgotten my name, but I guess to make sure I can sign for you."

Taking the pen and the bored Jess signs her name fast. If someone didnt know who she was they would still wouldnt know after she signed. Her signature was hard to even read.

"There you go, but good luck trying to make out what it says."

Leaning over the desk just a little Jess smile grows. It was good to see Rocky again so soon. He made her smile and that was a good thing. Not to mention seeing him broke up her dull day.

"It's good to see you again Rocky! You get to see me in my work zone and now I get to see you in yours. How is your day going?"

Turn of events

Austin keeps a close eye on Angel, unable to help a little worry. There was a nasty flu bug going around right now - he hoped she hadn't caught it.

Getting her to her hotel, he walks her inside and to her room, making sure that she was okay before he left. Driving around for a while, he doesn't go home right away. He just thinks... letting his mind drift from the past to present and back again. When had things become so complicated?


Rocky flips his phone shut, a grin still on his face. Parking his car in his driveway, he gets out and ambles inside, greeting his calico cat by picking her up and giving her some loving. The day had been long... and a lot of bad had happened. But good had happened too... and ending on that note, he was at peace.


Late the next morning....

Jason wanders back into TJY. He’d left early that morning after waking up, still in the infirmary. Leaving Katie to sleep a while longer, he’d gone home to shower and change and take care of Trooper, bringing him back with him. Now he was late in getting started on work… an hour late, though he didn’t much care if anyone didn’t like it.

This morning he had a headache. No hot shower or dose of sugar had helped it, and he knew it would probably last all day. He felt drained after the night before, but was beginning to realize the truth of it all. He had so much on his mind that even not twenty-four hours later, he could feel his emotions starting to build back up again. He knew it was because he was harboring them. Most of them related to Austin. Now some related to JetStream and Kyle. They were confusing, and he didn’t know how to deal with them. He needed to let them go. But he just…couldn’t. So instead, he closed the valve just enough that Katie wouldn’t have to feel everything. She had enough to worry about.

Ambling down across the main floor, Jason knows that by now, Katie is up and going as well. He’d only conversed with her briefly a short time later, not having the energy to rehash anything that had happened yet. He knew they would, but for this morning, it felt better to just try and move on.

Slipping up beside her cubicle, he offers a gentle smile, knowing she was probably as tired as he was.

Thanks for sticking by me, Hero. You always manage to save the day.

Reaching down, he sets a red rose on her desk, his eyes meeting hers.

You deserve more, ya know. You’re too good for me.

“Jason!”

Jason turns around to see Austin standing near the offices. “Yeah?”

“In my office. Now.”

Jason gives a nod, though his eyes have turned to an annoyed stare. Sighing, he turns back to Katie. “The tyrant beckons. He’s probably mad that I’m late again.” He shakes his head. “If I’m not out in half an hour, send in the troops. One of us might be dead.”

Though meant as a joke, the humor is lacking. Jason takes a deep breath and heads to Austin’s office, not looking forward to whatever it was.


Austin paces his office, his nerves shot. He’d hardly gotten any sleep at all last night. Too much had been on his mind. Angel, the ranch, Jason, the Elite… nothing felt right anymore. Nothing made sense. But his grandson certainly wasn’t making things any easier.

This morning, Austin was more mad at himself than anything, but it had turned into a bad mood that seemed to affect everything he touched. Would anything go right ever again?

He looks up quickly as Jason enters his office, his hard stare returning. “Jason, you’re late. Again.”

Jason rolls his eyes. “Yeah, so what?”

"I specifically told you to be at that meeting today, and you deliberately disobeyed orders!”

“I don’t care,” Jason shoots back. He folds his arms across his chest, his eyes narrowing at Austin, while his chin was lifted in defiance. His grandfather had no idea what Jason and Katie had been through last night, but he wasn't about to explain - it would only be viewed as an excuse or something to be pitied, and the last thing Jason wanted was pity from Austin.

Austin glares at him. No matter what they talked about anymore, it was always an argument. “You should. You’re pushing it, Jason. One more blatant disobedience, and you’ll be looking for another job.”

“Go for it,” Jason dares him. “Tell me I’m fired.” After a pause, he nods. “That’s what I thought. So if there’s nothing you can do about me, why are you wasting your breath? I don’t respect you anymore, Austin. You lost that respect the day I learned just what kind of person you really are. You’ve got no respect from me, and you’ve got no respect from the others around here either. Oh, we all put up with you, but when it really comes down to it, the only reason we don’t retaliate is out of fear.”

Austin’s hand slams down hard on his desk. “How dare you speak to me like that!”

“How dare you treat the people around you like you do! If you think that I’m going to back down just because you throw a temper-tantrum, you’re sorely mistaken.”

“You don’t know how hard this job is,” Austin hisses. “You don’t know what it’s like to run an organization like this – to be responsible for everyone and the well-being of all these people. You’re too thick-headed and naïve to realize just what kind of person it takes to run the Elite!” His voice raises with every word. “I’ve worked hard to bring myself to this point, and make this place what it’s become. Carter and I have been working for years to streamline this place into the best law-enforcement in existence! And you have the nerve to insult me to my face!”

“If you’d…”

“I’m not finished!” Austin barks. “You think you know so much about the way this place should run? You think you have all the answers?” He reaches onto his belt to pull off his badge, tossing it down in front of Jason on the desk. “Here.”

Jason grits his teeth, trying to maintain control of his temper. “What is that supposed to mean?”

“Call it chief for a day. Or better yet, for as long as they let you stick around.” Austin turns to grab his jacket and car keys. “All yours, Hotshot. Good luck.”

“Austin what are you…”

Austin whirls around as he reaches the door, staring at Jason with a cold gaze. “Maybe you’ll realize just what kind of position I’m in and learn some respect.”

Jason stares at the doorway, even when it’s empty for several minutes. His shock felt just as great as his anger. What on earth…

Turning back around, he looks down at Austin’s badge. Chief. Slowly, he walks around and sits down in Austin’s chair. He was hurt, he was confused, he was upset.

Katie, what on earth have I gotten myself into?


Austin slumps down in his seat, not wanting to get out of his car and go into his house. He wasn’t even sure there was a word to describe how he was feeling. He'd had intentions of checking on Angel today, but now all motivation was lost. Besides that, he didn't want to tell her what he'd just done.

His ringing phone makes him jump and he rolls his eyes, tempted to not even answer it. Giving in on the fourth ring though, he picks it up. “Yeah, hello?”

“I called the office and you weren’t there.”

“Hi, Jerry. No, I wasn’t there.”

“Did you do it?”

“Yeah. Didn’t think I’d have the opportunity this soon, but he pushed my buttons.”

“Now what?”

“Wait and watch. Jason’s gonna learn the hard way what life is all about. I know him. He’s too cocky not to take the position I just gave him. He likes power. He’ll take it and he’ll get a good taste of what it’s like to be in control, then he won’t want to give it up. He'll like the authority too much. The teams like him well enough that they’ll let him go for a while. They’ll help him along…put up with his novice moves.”

“The Elite is allowed to vote on a leader though. You don’t think they’ll choose someone else?”

“They like Jason too much. He’s popular and respected. Even guys like Rick will let him run, thinking that he’ll probably let them in on some decision-making anyway. And for a while, it will probably look like Jason’s doing a good job anyway."

"You don't think he'll bring back anybody you canned?"

"You mean Reese? Why should he? You think he'd want Reese back to tell him what to do? No, he won't - he's too proud."

“Then what?”

“Then one of these days, he’ll hit a point that makes him realize it’s not all it’s cracked up to be. He’ll realize that he’s not strong enough and not wise enough to be in that position. His pride will get the best of him and get him caught in a jam that he can’t get himself out of.”

“And he’ll come crawling back to you for help.”

“Exactly.”

“And you’ll go back to being chief, without that thorn in your side.”

“Exactly.”


“Want to try some breakfast?” Rick offers.

Scott is back on the infirmary bed and he shakes his head. He was back in the safe confines in this room after Jason and Katie were gone, but it didn’t seem to matter a whole lot. He hadn’t slept well, and he was tired. He didn’t feel much like doing anything, let alone trying to eat.

Rick sighs. “Just a little? A piece of toast shouldn’t bother you too much.”

Scott shakes his head again. “I’m not hungry.”

It was the same line over and over. Rick gives up. He could only push Scott so far. Last night he’d seem to take a step forward. This morning he seemed to have taken two steps back. “Are you going to see Hope today?”

Scott nods lamely. He knew he had an appointment. But he didn’t want to bother Katie. She had enough things to worry about.

Rick reads his silence. “You want me to take you?”

Scott nods again. “But…”

“But what?”

“I need to stop first…” Scott’s eyes roam to his camera. “One-hour developing before…before I go.”

Rick gives a small smile, glad to see at least some motivation still existed. "Sure. No problem."


Axel leans against the wall in the garage, an open book in one hand, an apple in the other. Taking a bite, his eyes roam the pages. A mid-morning break felt good today. The shop was busy.

"Man, you need to get a life."

Axel looks up to quirk an eyebrow at Leo. "Why's that?"

"You have no fun. All I ever see you do is stand around and read books. Don't you have any hobbies?"

Axel gives him a wry grin and holds the book up higher. "You think I read because I hate it?"

Leo smirks and goes back to his car. "At least you got a girlfriend."

"I do not!"

Leo's head snaps up at Axel's defensive tone. He'd never gotten a rise out of him before, and his eyes widen slightly, a small grin forming. "Sure you don't."

Axel relaxes and just shakes his head, going back to his book. "You got oil leaking."

"Wha..." Leo looks down and mutters to himself as he tries to find the leak.

Axel grins and takes another bite of his apple.


Rocky steps down from the blue truck, his eyes shielded by the baseball cap that bore the courier’s logo. Checking the address on the small box to the number on the glass door of the business, he steps forward. Clipboard and package in hand, his dark blue uniform signaled he drove for Shipping Smart.

Stepping inside the office, he looks around, then spots the secretary at her desk. A smiles forms and he ambles towards her, his eyes showing pleasant surprise.

He looks at the package, then back at Jess. “Well you’re certainly not Monica Baddger, unless I was sorely mistaken about your name.” He grins at her. “I’m not usually that bad at names though.”

He sets the package down on the counter. “I’ll wait until you sign for this though so I can make sure I’m right.”

Peaceful

Not having much energy to argue with Austin Angel accepts his help. She hated this feeling of helplessness and she hated not knowing what was wrong with her.

"Ok, I know you have changed but you havent changed that much. There is no point in arguing with you, you hard headed brut."

Angel gives a small laugh as she accepts Austin's arm as stands steadying herself before trying to move leaning mostly on Austin for support.

Getting into Austin's car Angel leans her head back and closes her eyes once again. A headack was now forming and any light just seemed to bother her. Seeming like she was asleep Angel was only deep in thought till finally she whispers horsly.

"Thank you Austin for the ride. I'm not sure whats wrong with me today."

A smile spreads on Jess face as she accepts Rocky's reply. It was nice to have someone alse that she would now be able to talk with. Hearing Rocky's flirting tone Jess cant help bu laugh a little wondering if he even new himself he was. But not minding it to much reply reply.

"I think you just might be right, and I look forward to it."

Haning up the phone Jess shuts her light off. Tonight she would dream of the good. Tonight maybe would be a peaceful night.

Prediction

Feeling Angel’s hand against his face, Austin closes his eyes for a moment, soaking in her gentle warmth. How much had he missed out on, because of his own foolish mistakes?

Her words of advice fell on his ears as truth… but even truth sometimes has a hard time penetrating a heart hardened by time.

His eyes open again and he gazes at her with a look that had lost so much. There was so much lately he could never take back. It wasn’t as easy as just easing up.

Austin is ready to say something, when he sees Angel falter and have to sit down. His intent immediately shifts, his sorrow turning into worry. Searching her face, he shakes his head. "Let me take you back to your hotel," he offers. His tone indicates it was not a request. Their conversation was left behind, there to be revisited later. But for now, he would not dwell on it. This took priority.

Reaching down, he helps Angel back to her feet. "Come on. You can't fool me... you're not feeling well, and you probably shouldn't have even gotten out tonight."

Without waiting for acceptance, he slips on a pair of shoes and grabs a jacket with his keys. "The last thing I'm gonna let you do is get in some whacked taxi driver's cab."


Rocky's ringing phone startles him, and he fishes in his pocket as he waits for a red light. Seeing the number, he furrows his brow, not recognizing it. After answering and hearing Jess' voice though, a smile spreads on his face and he gives a soft chuckle.

"You didn't have to thank me, but you're welcome anyway." He pauses as he makes a turn towards his house.

He didn't mind the silence on the line. It wasn't awkward. He knew Jess was waiting for him to say more, but he teases with letting the pause linger before finally giving in. "I'm just about home, so I guess that puts us both safe and sound for the night. You get some sleep. And... unless my predictions are off, I think I'll probably see you again soon."

Spinning

Seeing the look of enjoyment in Rocky's eyes Jess is pleased. She wasnt ashamed to admit that she had, had a blast as well. It was nice to enjoy the movie and some laughs with a new friend. Jess had missed this interaction with people and for a moment it made her relize just how alone she was. Straghting for a moment and pushing the feeling away Jess just smiles.

As She feels Rocky looking down on her Jess leans back a little and looks back up at him. Her eyes meeting his as they linger for a long moment, and the smile staying on her face. His eyes were so luring and soft Jess felt like she could look into them forever. Finally as Rocky pulls away Jess stands walking slowly to the door. Taking Rocky's number in her hand she can feel her cheeks turn a shade of red. This was the first time a guy had given her his number and though it might have been nothing more than a friendship thing the color came anyways. In a soft voice she reply.

"Ok, thank you. Have a good Night Rocky"

Closing the door behind him Jess just stands in her quiet apartment for a moment holding the paper in her hand. Turning Jess goes into her room and sinks down on the bed. Everything seemed so quiet now and for the first time Jess felt very alone. Picking up her phone she she dials the number that were written on the paper. Feeling a bit strange she trys not to pay attachen to it. Waiting for Rocky to answer Jess cant help her nervouse laugh.

"Hi, sorry to be calling you so soon but after you left I relized I forgot to thank you for the fun time as well so....thank you Rocky."

Hearing Austin's words hit a spot in Angel's heart. She had known at one point in time her and Austin had a strong attraction for eachother but differnt sercomstances always stood in the way of anything more than a friendship with him. Wendy was even named after a child Austin would of named his own. But over the time Angel had thought that, that feeling that they had so long ago had died but now it was clear for Austin it did not.

Standing Angel didnt want to go but she could feel her tiredness growing stonger as her head started to spin. She had to go before she passed out infront of Austin and made him worry but she couldnt just leave him there not like this...a little more time....she could stay a little more. She had to pushed herself and keep herself with it. Stepping a little closer to Austin Angel brings her hand to his face a brushs some hair from his eyes as she smiles.

"The point of staying in touch is I am your friend Austin and you need to stop letting the ghosts of the past follow you around. Life happens, and crap happens but we need to deal with it. I'll always care a great deal for you..."

Angel can feel herself growing weaker but she had to finish what she was saying she had to stay strong.

"..that will never change Austin. At work you know what your doing, but maybe your trying to hard. Ease up a little and just, let everyone be who they are ment to be there. Your a good guy and a bit a great boss, but your trying to...h..."

Trying to finishs her statment Angel withdraws her hand from Austin's face and brings it to her own head and everything starts to spin and the room goes out of focue and black than back in again...No not like this....

"I...I have to go."

Taking a step forward Angel's knees buckel as she can feel herself falling twords the ground though she sinks into the coution of the coutch for a moment just falling silent. Keeping her eyes closed she trys to regain her equilibreum and stop everything from spinning. Finally after a few moments she opens her eyes again and looks up at Austin. Worry layed in her eyes as if crying for help because there master wouldnt ask.

"I'm ok. I guess I am just more tired than I thought. Probley should be heading back now. Maybe tomarrow we can do lunch?"