Australia

Carson grows solemn as he hears what the problem is, and he approaches the bed to look down at Angel's still form. Though resting, it was apparent that her body was at war.

He glances over to Luke. "You her husband?"

"That's right."

"Is she away from you a lot?"

Luke shakes his head. "No." They'd been over this several times already. "She hardly ever leaves the ranch, she's hardly ever out on her own... I can't think of a think out of the ordinary. I've thought all night."

Carson gives a little sigh. "She around people on a regular basis? You're from the ranch, right?"

"Yeah. She's a doctor, so she's always around people in and out. We have visitors all the time - I don't keep track or anything."

"But so she's close to strangers then."

"Sure. I guess."

Carson wanders to Misty's desk to look down at all the paperwork. He was far from anything even close to a doctor, but some things he did recognize. He looks back to Angel, just watching quietly for several minutes. "You think it's the Agency, huh?"

Backing up, he leans against the counter, folding his arms across his chest. This was crucial. The woman lying sick in bed was dying - that much was clear. But even if it was the Agency's doing, how could he help? He didn't know anything.

Rick watches him closely. "We only think it's the Agency because it doesn't appear to be anything natural. Can you think of anything that would cause this? It's not the same as the poison they've passed around before."

Carson shakes his head slowly. "No..."

"If we don't get a handle on it, we're going to lose her," Rick replies grimly. "Is there any way we can find out more? Get feelers out there? I don't know - anything?"

Carson remains quiet, racking his brain. He'd been with the Agency for so long, but even so, trying to remember everything was sometimes difficult. He went out and killed people, he didn't ever know much about what went on in the lab. Or did he? "Lab rats."

Rick looks at him with question. "What?"

"Lab rats," Carson repeats. Maybe that was it. "Angel's been tired? Lethargic?"

Luke nods. "She told me a bit on the phone. She's been extremely tired, sore, dizzy... last night she was coughing up some blood."

Carson purses his lips grimly. "Number two-sixty-seven."

"What?"

"It's an agent... a chemical. The Agency was testing it a few years ago on rats. They were trying to create something that couldn't be traced... something that there was no natural cure for. I think they were using that other poison until they'd refined this other stuff."

"So..." Rick fishes for more information. "Do you know anything else? A cure?"

Carson shakes his head. "I was never involved with lab studies. I just remember being at one of the bases once and someone took me through the lab where Medridge kept a batch of rats for testing. Half of 'em looked about dead. But they were only testing two things there - the poison we've already encountered, and two-sixty-seven."

"What makes you think it's that one?"

"It's a shot in the dark," Carson admits. "It's the first thing I can think of though, that matches up. I have no idea how many things the Agency has tried out or what all they've developed. I've killed guys with poison they've had me inject. But those were the two main ones."

Rick looks to Misty, then back to Carson. "What about an antidote?"

"I'm sure that one exists. They never start using a substance on anyone unless they've already developed an antidote."

"Would it be the only way to cure Angel?"

"Probably." Carson doesn't think there's a more positive answer to that one. "They don't play games with this stuff. They want it to kill."

"Then..." Rick shrugs. "We have to find the antidote."

Carson quirks an eyebrow. "That easy, huh?"

"Well do you have any better suggestions?"

Carson shakes his head. "No, but the first place I'd look would be that lab I was in."

"Then let's figure out how to go in."

"No, you don't understand..." Carson hesitates. "It's in Australia."


Hearing Angel's voice, Luke is quick to turn and take her hand. Though he was glad she was awake for a short time, she looked so pale... so weak. "Don't you worry about me," he chides gently. "I got enough other people keeping me in line."

He runs a palm down the side of her face, tucking a lock of hair behind her ear. "You're the one that needs to rest. You're going to get better... I know it."


Jason lets Trooper out ahead of him, then aims for his truck, fishing for his keys.

Why couldn't I get some gift like flying or something? These gas prices are eating me alive.

Getting in the truck, he turns on the engine.

Hey, Katie... JetStream's got an early morning practice today, since Phil and Mike both have to work tonight. Reese let me take the time off to do it. You gonna come down to Mike's with me, or go in to work?

Help

Working almost all night and checking Angel contently an hour sleep is all that found Misty. Dedicating her time to try and help Angel sleep was not an option for Misty. After running tests, beaking down formulas, and rechecking over again Misty still was coming up empty handed. Not giving up though she continues.

Looking up as Carson enters Misty give the best smile she can though she eyes show she is tired and has not slept at all.

"Thanks Carson for coming I know you have to get to work and all. Well Angel is real sick, she is..."

Misty looks to Jeff, and than Luke letting out a sigh. She didnt want to say it in front of them but she new she had to one way or another. She couldnt hide it from them.

"...fading fast. I am trying to do all I can to figure this out and I havent come up with anything yet. I found the fourn agents but I havent been able to identify them yet. This is like something I have never seen before. Anyways..We are pretty sure The Agency has had something to do with this and we were hoping maybe if you gave her a look over you might be able to help us out at all. If even a little bit that would be a great help."

Giving a soft moan Angel turns her head to the side to where Luke sat. Giving him a small smile as reachs to touch his hand. Her face pale, and she was weak but knowing Luke was here helped her stay stong.

"You should get some sleep you know we both dont need to be sick."

Questions

Laura hangs up the phone and lets out a contented sigh. But why was Nate getting off work so early tomorrow?

She shakes her head and shrugs to herself. It was late... she was getting tired. Henry jumps up into her lap and gives her hand a nudge with his head.

"Yeah, yeah, I'm coming." Laura grins and strokes her cat's head.

Henry bounds off again, to trot down the hall. Reaching Katie's door, he pushes a paw against it until it opens just enough for him to squeeze in. Blinking in the dim light, he walks a few feet before jumping up onto Katie's bed as if checking to make sure she was tucked in before he headed back to Laura.


Luke lets Misty work, and finally he withdraws to rest his elbows on his knees, putting his face in his hands. He shakes his head at Misty's question.

"I can't think of anything out of the ordinary," he finally answers. "A lot of people come and go at the ranch... Angel hasn't gone anywhere but town every once in a while, and church on Sundays."

Jeff takes a couple steps to lay a hand on Luke's shoulder, giving him a firm pat. No words could really suffice at a time like this. What could he say?

"I don't know what to do either." Rick sighs. "All three of us are doctors, and we can't diagnose this, so it's got to be something foreign, or synthetic, or something... it's too far out of the ordinary to be a common disease that any of us could have recognized. I think you're right..."

He nods at Misty. "Carson's the last resort. I doubt he knows anything, but it's worth a try."

Jeff quirks an eyebrow, now having heard that name twice. "Who's Carson?"

"He's the guy that used to work for the Agency. Katie or Jason might have mentioned him. He was brought down a while back then changed sides. And, he's also Misty's boyfriend."

"Ohh yeah." Jeff nods. "I remember now."

"Yeah. Well..." Rick sets his hands on his hips. "Misty, you and I will stay the night here to monitor Angel's condition. Luke and Jeff... feel free to make yourself comfortable. There's a cot in here, and some blankets and... if you need anything else, ask."


The night is too long. The infirmary is kept at a steady vigil, Angel's vitals being constantly checked by both Rick and Misty. Her conditions remained about the same as she drifted in and out of a hazy consciousness. No better, no worse. But the ticking clock was the worst enemy. Every minute that passed as a minute lost in this battle, whose foe could not be seen or understood.


Susanne wanders into TJY, one of the first to arrive in the morning. Flipping on the lights, she keeps her eyes down as she puts her keys back in her purse while walking to her office.

Pushing the door open, she turns that light on as well, ready to toss her purse to the side and move to her desk. But the startling form in her chair made her shriek and she takes a step backward, putting a hand to her mouth.

Gunner's eyes fly open, his feet sliding off the desk as he quickly rights himself, springing to his feet. "Whoa, whoa, settle down!"

"What are you doing here?" Susanne demands, a glare in her eyes. "Who do you think you..."

Suddenly, her voice trails off and her eyes widen. "Brent Franklin. What in heaven's name are you doing here, let alone in my office?!"

"Well hi to you too." Gunner comes around the desk and spreads his arm, cocking his head. "Is that all I get?"

Susanne laughs sheepishly and moves to give him a hug. Backing off, she gives his scraggly beard a tug. "And what on earth have you done to yourself? You should be shot for coming in here like this, and scaring a poor old woman to death."

"Old woman?!" Gunner grins, a glint in his eye. "You? Oh, please."

Susanne gives his arm a whack. "What are you doing here?"

"Sleeping. Well... I was until you woke me up. Your chair was found to be the most comfortable."

Susanne rolls her eyes. "But what are you doing back here? I didn't think you were ever coming back."

"Neither did I. It's been about two years - glad you even knew who I was."

"As if anybody could forget you." Susanne smirks. "I usually know when the boss calls somebody back in though."

"Medical emergency," Gunner explains. "Angel Trahern from the Texas gang is down in the infirmary. Her husband and one of the others wanted to come, so I brought them."

"So who's watching the ranch?"

"Oh, one of the guys volunteered there. But I'll probably have to head back right away, leaving my post without permission and all. 'Course I'll have to ask the big boss. How's he doing anyway?"

"Reese?"

"No, Jason."

"Jason?" Susanne shakes her head. "You didn't hear about yesterday morning?"

Gunner throws up his arms. "I never hear anything. What happened now?"

"Reese is back in charge."

"Really?" Gunner thinks a moment, then smiles. "Good. He shoulda been in charge all along anyway."

"Agreed." Susanne moves to sit down at her desk and turn her computer on. "So is this a new fashion statement or what?"

Gunner runs a hand through his hair, then strokes his beard. "What? You don't like it?"

Susanne scrunches up her nose. "If I liked it, would I have screamed when I saw you?"

Gunner laughs. "Oh, but it's so much fun watching everyone's faces!"

"Well we'd like to see your face sometime too," Susanne chides. "Do you have anything for breakfast?"

"Thought you'd never ask."


Carson wanders onto the main floor of TJY, glancing around at the empty cubicles. He wasn't used to being here this early. But Rick's voicemail on his phone had given him the impression that he needed to be here as soon as possible. He hadn't hesitated in asking Dani to drop him off here on her way to work.

Getting to the infirmary, he knocks, then enters quietly. He sees Rick and Misty, then three other people that looked familiar, but he knew he'd never met. "Hey guys... what's up?"

Rick gives him a nod. "Carson. Thanks for coming. This is Luke and Jeff... and Angel."

Carson nods and shakes hands with the two men who looked as though they'd been up all night. "Hi." He looks to Misty with question. "What's going on? Why did you need me?"

Carson

Even though Laura cant see him Nate gives a nod as the joy can be hurd in his voice. "Ok tomorrow morning at work we can talk about a time. I talked with Reese about getting out a little bit early so I should be around till about 2. Love ya babe and talk to you tomorrow."

Hanging up the phone Nate leans back on the couch, than glances at his sister who was asleep next to him. How life has changed in the last few years and how blessed Nate was to be where he is now. The road had been long but it was worth it. It would be interesting to see what was to happen in the future. How life would turn out and what would happened next.


Drawing closer to Angel Misty studys her taking a few of her own items from her bag. Starting to draw blood she looks up at Luke and than back at Angel. "Well I was working on my latest project with nerve damage research. She never really told me why but she took an interest in it and wanted to help me out. Other than helping me I didn't know she was sick. She asked to look at some of my other research and I said now problem. Maybe she was looking for a cure without telling anyone I don't know."

Continue to check Angel over Misty isn't to sure what more she can do. She would check the blood sample and probably spend most her night checking over the tests she had done. Turning to Rick she shakes her head and looks to Luke than Jeff, than back to Rick.

"She's not looking good Rick. I'll do all I can but I don't know if thats going to be enough. Has Angel had any contact with the Agency as of late? Gunner was always watching the cameras so no one could of slipped into the ranch at anytime? Or has Angel been outside the country recently? Any information you can give me will help in what I am trying to look for. The only other thing I could possibly think of doing is calling Carson and seeing if maybe he knows the symptoms or anything."

Some things never...

Laura's smile broadens. "Aw, you remembered." She sinks down a little further in the couch, pulling a blanket up over her feet.

A giggle escapes. "You know I can't say no to you. I can try, but it never works very well...." She pauses, a sly tone coming to her voice. "Not after you figured out how to get me to go out with you anyway."

Still smiling, she glances over to the calendar on the wall. "Tomorrow is great. I'll see you at work so we can work out the best time."


Luke stays in the chair, resting an arm against the bed, trying to keep himself going. He was exhausted, but Angel was more important than his rest right now. Still holding her hand, his other moves to stroke her hair, a silent prayer running through his mind.

Jeff stands back quietly, unsure what his role in all this was right now. It was obvious that Gunner knew who to call, and apparently the physician was on his way. Jeff glances over to see Scott leaning back against the wall, quietly watching.

"How ya doing, Scott? Good to see you again."

Scott looks over to him quickly, having been blind to Jeff's position in the room, and not realizing he was still there. "Yeah..." he gives a little nod. "I'm... I'm doing okay."

Jeff offers a smile the best he can. He'd heard all about what had happened with Scott, but seeing him for himself... it was a whole new feeling. He didn't know what to say.

Scott knows good and well what Jeff must be thinking. He had the same look on his face as anyone else who saw Scott for the first time after the incident. They all reacted the same, even though they didn't mean to. "There's a couple more chairs over there," Scott offers quietly. "Or... or there's a spare bed in the next room if you're tired."

Jeff shakes his head. "We just stole your bed, buddy. You should take the other room."

It takes a couple minutes of thinking until Scott relents. He'd probably just get in the way in here anyway. He looks over to the bed one more time, worried about Angel. He didn't know her all that well, but he liked her... she'd always been so kind. And he didn't know Luke all that well either but it was obvious that he cared for his wife.

Finally, Scott sidles past Gunner and Jeff to go into the guest room instead. Sinking down on the bed, he waits. For what, he wasn't sure. He wasn't quite as tired now. So he just sits in the quite dark.

Gunner lifts an eyebrow as Scott leaves the room. That certainly wasn't the Scott he used to know. A low whistle escapes.

Jeff looks at him quickly. "Yeah... ditto."

Gunner purses his lips and sighs a little. "Guess I didn't realize just how bad it was."

"Me neither."

"Well..." Gunner sets his hands on his hips. "Rick is on his way. Shouldn't take him more than a couple minutes."

He's right. Rick is quick to arrive to TJY, jogging down to the infirmary. Seeing Gunner, he skids to a halt, blinking before he realizes who it is. "Good grief... what happened to you?"

Gunner grins. "How come everybody keeps giving me a hard time?" He glances over to a mirror. "What's up with the surprise anyway?"

Rick rolls his eyes. "Good to see you again."

Gunner's smile is genuine. "Yeah. Feels good to be here."

Rick moves quickly to the bed, giving Angel a once-over before introducing himself to the two men he didn't know.

Luke acknowledges him. "I'm Luke... Angel's husband."

"And I'm Jeff," Jeff adds. "Katie's uncle."

"Ah yes." Rick nods, recognizing the names. "Well I'm glad you brought Angel in. Misty's on her way to help me out too. I have a feeling she might know more than I do."

"Misty?" Luke questions.

"Medical assistant."

Once Misty does arrive, Rick lets her check Angel over too. "I can't pinpoint it," he comments with concern. "But her body is starting to shut down. These guys brought her in from the hotel."

Luke looks up at Misty, the worry coursing through his eyes. "She only told me this morning... I came as soon as I could. Have you been helping her?"


While the others talk and explain again who Luke and Jeff were and how they came to be here, Gunner wanders from the infirmary. Taking a casual glance down the hall, he wanders to the break room. Looking at the pop machine, he fishes in his pockets for change, but comes up empty.

Approaching the machine from the side, he places one hand near the top, and with the other, he runs it along the side. Down about halfway, he stops and feels for the right spot. Giving a firm whack to the panel, a few quiet noises come from inside the machine, then suddenly a clunk, and a can of Pepsi is deposited.

Gunner grins and picks up the can. "Some things never change." Opening the soda and taking a swig, he wanders back out into the hall and heads for the main floor to take a look around.

Dream World

Hearing Laura's voice makes the grin on Nate's face grow even though she cant see it. His berves and worry seem to almost disappear now as her soft words are like music to his hears.

"Hey Babe. Well to tomarrow is out anniversary and I wanted to take you out to dinner at the nice fancy Italian restraint. The choice is yours but I wont take no for an answer I wanna do something nice for you so please say yes!"

Nate waits and listens hope that Laura's answer really was yes.

As Luke picks her up Angel slowly puts her arms around his neck. Though she dosnt hold on with much force she trys the best she can in her weak state. Resting her head on his shoulder she is quiet just listing to the rythem of Luke's heart and his breathing she try to stay at contious as she can.

Once getting to TJY and inside the infermary Angel turns her head to look at Scott and give a small smile. Feeling the pillow and the blanket over her, along with Luke's hand still in her Angel falls into a strange uncountiousness as her exsaution takes over once again. Though unable to reply at the moment she can head and comprehend everything that was going on around her along with willing it as well. It was almost like a dearm but this was very much real.

Hanging up her phone Misty heads back to her bedroom and changes into a par of jeans and throws a hoodie over her tanktop. She wasnt sure what was going on but Rick had made it sound like an emergncy and if it had to do with Angel she would hurry even faster.

Heading out the door and getting into her car Misty wasts no time in getting to TJY. Quickly making her way across the floor and into the infermary. Looking around the room Misty can only guess who Luke was seeing him holding Angel's hand. As for Gunner and Jeff she had no idea but they must be friends if they had gotten this far. Not knowing what was going on Misty could only wait for Rick but takes a step closer to Angel glancing at Luke than back to Angel she takes in how she looks, and the marking taking not to anything that was not natrule.

"What happend?"

Amidst the storm

Laura looks up and sets her book down, taking the phone. "Thanks, Katie." Putting the phone to her ear, she smiles. "Hey, you. Sorry I didn't get a chance to see you much today. With Reese back, he had be working like a dog."

She pauses to put a bookmark in her book. "So what's up?"


Despite Con's own depression, a chuckle surfaces and he brings Jamie even closer. "How did I ever wind up with someone as wonderful as you, hmm?" He slides down further in the couch and puts his feet up on the coffee table, prepared to fall asleep right here if what was on tv wouldn't keep him awake. Maybe he didn't have a job, and maybe there were things bothering him that he hadn't even shared with Jamie... but he couldn't deny that just having her there with him made him happy. There was peace amidst the storm.


Luke is relieved when Angel wakes, but his worry does not decrease. Searching his wife's pale face, he takes her hand after she's coughed. Taking a tissue, he wipes off the blood, remaining calm, though his insides were screaming. This couldn't be happening. Not now... not when they'd had so little time together.

"Don't worry about the past," he chides gently. "I wish I would have known, but there's nothing we can do about that now."

He turns to look back to Jeff. "Help gather up her things, will you? We need to get her somewhere else."

"Right." Jeff doesn't question, but sets right to it, picking up Angel's books and other belongings, and finding her bags to put them in.

Luke pulls back the covers and carefully reaches under her to pick her up into his arms. "You're going to be okay," he assures. "I'm not giving up, so you don't give up either."

Giving her forehead a kiss, he stands up, picking Angel up with him, so she can rest her head on his shoulder. "Jeff, you ready?"

"Yeah. Let's go meet back up with Gunner." Jeff kept a close eye on Luke. A few hours ago, he could barely walk, but it was obvious to Jeff now that Luke had dug down deep for any strength left, and was determined to help Angel at any cost. Deciding not to interfere, Jeff leads the way out of the room and back down the hall.


Gunner is taken by surprise as a woman runs into him. He takes a step back, his eyes widening. "Sorry" he apologizes too.

Seeing the look on the woman's face though, a smile suddenly grows. He knew exactly what must be going through her mind. His hands back in his pockets, he just stands a little taller, the amusement sparkling in his eyes. Giving a wave, he bids her farewell, sure that the next person she saw would get an earful about the strange guy at the hotel.

His fun is cut short though, when Jeff and Luke appear, and Gunner is back on duty. Seeing Angel, his own worry forms. "How is she?"

"Not good," Jeff answers. "Where to?"

"TJY. Come on."

The drive to TJY is a tense one. Gunner had picked up a TJY vehicle at the airport, and though gone for quite a while, he knew his way around like the back of his hand. Arriving at the building, it's quiet, and the parking lot is almost empty.

Gunner leads the way, Jeff and Luke still carrying Angel, following along behind. Checking out the door, Gunner quirks an eyebrow. "Guess going public means security isn't as tight," he muses, putting his security card back in his pocket and pushing the door open. he leads the others in and down the elevator, and onto the main floor.

Luke was too busy paying attention to his precious cargo to notice much, but Jeff took a long look around the room, surprised at all the desks and equipment. He'd been told about the office, but seeing it, he was impressed. Turning, he hurries to catch up with Luke and Gunner.

Gunner heads to the hallway, though his eyes take in the surroundings. Not a whole lot had changed, but it felt strange being here. He'd been gone for close to two years. In some ways it had felt like he'd never left. In other ways it felt as though he'd been gone for ten years.

He aims for the infirmary, pushing the door open, but skidding to a stop when he realizes the bed was not empty.

Scott gives a jump, his book flying and landing on the floor. His eyes are wide, at first, not even recognizing who was there. His face pales as a surge of fear rushes at him. "What..."

"Scott!" Gunner steps in further, a smile forming.

Suddenly, Scott realizes who it is, and relaxes. "Gunner... what are you doing here?"

"Got a sick lady here." Gunner thumbs to Luke and Angel as they enter, then Jeff. "Rick around?"

Scott slides off the bed and gestures for Luke to put Angel there instead. "Rick? Um... no... he's home."

Jeff stops in the doorway, unable to help his look of surprise at seeing Scott. If he hadn't known it was him, he wasn't sure he even would have recognized him. He looked like he'd been through the ringer and hadn't come out too well on the other end. He was so thin and... wow.

Luke gently sets Angel down on the bed and pulls a blanket up over her, only now collapsing into the chair next to her, his hand still on hers.

Gunner moves to the counter and picks up the phone, scanning the numbers on the wall. Quickly, he dials Rick. Within minutes, he receives an answer that Rick is on his way.


Rick hangs up the phone and grabs his Jacket. Going back into the living room, he leans down to give Janet a kiss. "Sorry. Emergency. I'll let you know what's happening." As quickly as he'd come, he's gone. But on his way to TJY, he dials Misty. "Misty, it's Rick. We got trouble, Angel's in a bad way. Meet me at the office?"

Heaven sakes

Putting her dishes into the sink and reaching down to scratch Henry on the head Katie just thinks for a long moment. Something like this was a big deal but it also needed to be handles very delicately.

Yeah I agree talk to Carson and go from there.

Passing the phone in the hallway the ring startles her.

Darn phone. I am so use to just talking to you this way this stupid thing startles me every time it rings.

I'll talk to you tomorrow. Night J.

Finishing her mentil conversation with Jason Katie hears the phone ring again. Figuring Laura didnt hear it or was busy Katie answers it.

"Hello?"

"Hey Hero. How are ya?"

Hearing Nate's voice a smile comes to her face. Nate was one of her fav people at TJY and it was always nice to hear him call. Not to mention he brought a smile to the face of her friend.

"Heya Nate. I am going ok and yourself?"

"Oh I'm doin all right. Is Laura around?"

For a moment Katie is quiet. It almost sounded like something was wrong Nate's voice sounded shakey and that was unlike him.

"It everything ok?"

"Oh yeah everything is fine just need to talk to Laura."

"Ok yeah sure let me get her for you."

"Thanks Hero."

Katie puts the phone down for a moment and heads into the livingroom. Seeing Laura on the coutch she enters the rest of the way picking up the cordless phone.

"Laura Nate is on the phone for you."

Handing it to her she turns and head back out hanging up the older phone and than heads into her room for the night.

Still staying snuggled into Con Jamie is silent for a moment. A feeling washing over her. She felt so bad for Con, and he had been so depressed as of late. It was hard to see him like this and it made Jamie's hear ack.

"No matter what Con, your always good for something. I know things havent been the greatest, and you have been down on your luck. But I love you just the same and I am happy because I have you. Thats all that really matter to me."

Lifting her head alittle Jamie leans up and gives Con a soft kiss on the lips before resting her head on his chest again.

Hearing Luke's voice and feeling someone shaking her Angel trys to pull herself out of sleep. After a few trys and hearing Luke plead Angel is finally able to open her eyes. Forming the best smile she can she pushes the cover back and brings a hand up to Luke's face to run her fingers down the side of it.

"You made it."

Trying to stay at contious as she could Angel manages to sit up but takes a hold of Luke's arm to stedy herself. Looking a little to the left and seeing Jeff her smile grows a little more.

"It looks like you braught the calvery with you."

Though she was sick, and she new it was getting worse, though Angel new she would die if there was no cure her humor was still there trying to make the best out of this situation. In a time like this its really all that could help anyone move forward.

Growing weak again Angel trys her best to stay sitting up right as she continues to talk, to stay strong.

"My books and everything I have observed is over on that table there. It wasent untill the start of this week it hit me hard. I had been doing ok and than just out of no...where...."

Angel stops for a moment as she goes into a coughing fit. Bringing her hand to her mouth she continues to cough till finally it stop. Pulling her hand away is reveals some blood on it proving her had coughed it up. Looking at it for a moment she than looks up at Luke again. Worry coursed through this brave womans eyes.

"I'm sorry...Luke I kept this from you. I just though...I could make myself...better or it would go away...I guess not even the dr can know everything."

Making herway through the hotel quickly a woman about in her early 30's turns the courner. Not paying attachen to where she was going she walks straght into Gunner.

"Oh excuse me I am so sorry..."

Finally looking up the woman takes a jump backwards as his apearance startles her.

"Heaven sakes."

Just standing there stairing at him for a moment the woman says nothing just eyeing him up and down. Who and what on earth was this in front of her. This man looked like he had just come in from a year long stay in the woods. Finally steping to one side the woman does take her eyes off of hime as she starts to walk away.

Finally turning around she hurrys from the hotel and dosent look back.

Mountain man

Well, the conviction is certainly true. I mean, I found all the records. There’s no doubt that he was guilty – they had all the proof the court needed.

Jason thinks for several more minutes before closing a folder over the printout.

I’ll talk to Carson first chance I get. If he knows, then I’ll feel better about it. If he doesn’t, then maybe I’ll leave it in his hands as someone who knows Axel better than I do.

Standing up, Jason moves to leave his office. Trooper gets up expectantly, eager to finally go home.

See you tomorrow, Hero. Sleep well.


Con doesn’t open his eyes as Jamie cuddles into him, but he slips an arm around her, giving her a loving squeeze. “I love you too,” he responds quietly.

Finally he moves to give her head a kiss. “I’m sorry I haven’t been good for much lately.” His hand moves to rub up and down her back. “Maybe once I’m back with Titan things will get better.”


Axel looks up at the dark sky, finding the moon behind the clouds that were finally parting after being thick all day.

His arms wrapped around his knees, he breaths in the cool night air. Not many would notice him perched atop the roof of the auto shop. But it was the perfect vantage point, and a spot where he could feel far away from the world, if just for a little while.

Closing his eyes, he lets the breeze wash over him. He had so many questions. So many unknowns.


“Thank you.” Luke moves down the hotel hallway, Jeff close behind. It had taken a bit of doing, but after finally convincing the guy at the hotel desk that Luke was Angel’s husband, he was able to obtain a key.

It doesn’t take long to find her room, and after knocking with no response, Luke fumbles with the lock.

“Here.” Jeff reaches in to help. He knew that Luke was exhausted. After getting thrown from a horse early that morning, it was amazing he was walking at all. But his determination to see Angel had won out.

Getting inside the dim room, Luke finds the light switch, and glances around to spot Angel in bed. “Angel?”

He moves closer, easing down on the bed next to her. “Angel… come on, babe… wake up…. We’re here.” He brushes some hair from her face, his jaw tightening with concern as he sees how pale she is. He gently rubs her arm, trying to rouse her. “Angel… For me… you have to wake up.”

Jeff stands back waiting, ready to go for the phone if they couldn’t wake her.


Gunner paces the foyer of the hotel, every once in a while glancing up to throw a smile to the man behind the desk. It was a smile that was born of humor for the look he kept receiving.

The hotel manager continued to steal glances at the stranger who was pacing. He looked like he was some mountain man, his shoulder-length hair pulled back in a scraggly ponytail, his beard in need of a trim. The streak of gray in his hair seemed out of place, and his worn flannel shirt made him look even more the part of some lumberjack.

Gunner knew exactly what was going through the guy’s head, and continued to toy with him, not choosing to exit, but staying right where he was, finding it very funny. He knew what he looked like, and loved even more to see people’s reactions. More important though, he was waiting for word from Jeff or Luke. He knew Angel and was concerned for her as well. But if she was sick, it wouldn’t be the hospital they would go to, but TJY instead. With something like this, they couldn’t help but wonder if there was some part of the Agency involved, and if that was the case, she would get more help at the infirmary than the hospital.

Watching her

Coming into the living room Jamie stands in the doorway for a long moment knowing Con probley did not know she was there. Just watching her husband for a long moment Jamie lets out a soft sigh. She new things had been hard on him latley and she felt so bad for him. He was trying so hard and it was starting to wair him down.

Slowly walking in the rest of the way Jamie lowers herself down on the coutch next to Con she snuggles into him and draps her arm across his chest.

"I love you Con."

Was the only words she said. She did love him, and dispight anything she was happy. How could she not be. Con was her dream, and it came true.

Tuning into what Jason said Katie listens intently on what he had to say. A bit shocked Katie isnt sure what to even say. A million differnt emotions run through her as she trys to process this information.

I....He seemed pretty nice when we met him. I mean a little stand-off-ish but all in all an ok guy. Than again I guess someone could be puttin on a show for anyone alse.

Katie stops for a moment. she didnt know what to think on the matter. It was obveous that they should be caustios, but what alse should she thing?

I'd hate to jump to conclutions on something like this and it end up being a missunderstanding. Maybe you should talk with Carson and see what happens. I wouldnt wait to long though just incase it is true.

Sitting down on the coutch after the long night at work Jess turns the tv on. It had been a long say filled with strange avents. Most pushed off as just forgetfulness or cawinceadince that it had happend or certin things were found.

Flipping though the channels Jess takes a sip of her beer. The night was a bore and there really wasnt anything on tv right now. Finally setting her drink down though she find an old movie to watch and curled up on the coutch she difts off to sleep unawair of the eyes that layed watching her.

Findings

A grin surfaces again and Kyle takes Alice's card. "Well... I don't know if I'll call you or not, so I won't promise anything, but... I have been known to do some weird things sometimes."

The humor dances in his eyes. "See ya around, Alice."

Watching her leave, Kyle just stands alone for a long while, his eyes lingering on where she had disappeared into the fog. It almost felt like this had all never happened. But his drenched clothes proved it was real. Interesting... very interesting.

He shakes his head and aims back to the path, taking the long way around so he had a chance to dry off a little bit before getting back into his pickup.


The afternoon drags on, the atmosphere staying very damp, though the temperature rises to a comfortable degree.

Things at TJY settle down some, while Reese tries to find his place once again. Everyone still seems in favor of his leadership, making the transition an easy one. In some ways, it felt as if nothing had ever changed. Most were so relieved to have him back, that they were willing to go the extra mile in informing him what had been happening and where they were in their work. One of the first things Reese did was to call Ty and offer his job back. Having to leave a message though, it wasn't sure that the youngest member of TJY would be back.

It was becoming a late evening. Most people had already drifted home for the night. Scott had decided to stay one more night in the infirmary at least, though since Austin was gone, he agreed that he would be fine with just Hal keeping an eye on things. Rick was able to go home for the first night in quite a while.


Con leans his head back on the couch, closing his eyes as the television droned on. He thought Jamie was still in the kitchen, but he couldn't hear if she was still doing the dishes or not. He knew he hadn't been the best company tonight. But being out of work again didn't feel good. Not to mention, he hadn't yet told Jamie where he'd been this afternoon. He tried to be upbeat, but feeling like a fish out of water almost every day didn't help any. His body wanted to sleep, but his mind was too active. He couldn't quite tell from the sounds what was playing on television, but he didn't want to open his eyes to find out.


Jason clicks through files after several different searches. It was late. He should go home. But what was on his mind had kept him in his office. He’d come up with a few dead ends, not really finding anything in particular. Things seemed pretty quiet… records seemed pretty clean. But something made him keep looking. Something had been bothering him, and he needed to find out what it was. His gut usually wasn’t wrong.

Suddenly he finds it. He really hadn’t hoped it existed, though it did go to prove his instincts right.

But as he reads further, his eyes widen. He’d suspected some sort of record, but not this kind. He straightens a little, almost offended. This was… more than he’d thought. This was… worse than he’d thought. Unfortunately it looked as though he’d been too right.

Hitting a button to print, he gains a hard copy of the record. What he was going to do with it, he didn’t know, but… he didn’t think this should stay hidden. Not something like this… should it? But maybe the culprit had changed since then… people did change… but… how often did that really happen in cases like these?

Hey, Katie…

He takes the printoff and scans it again, the hairs on the back of his neck standing on end.

You know Axel Thornton? From Cryptic? I, um… followed up my hunch that there wasn’t something right there and… I’m not sure I like what I found.

It was about six or seven years ago.
He reads as he communicates, knowing that if Katie was paying attention it would work almost like a scanner.

He served a year behind bars, then a year after that in a rehabilitation program – bootcamp really. Then he got out with probation for a couple more years.

Jason inwardly cringes.

He was convicted of assault and rape.

His emotions speak for themselves. He was upset. He was confused. He didn’t know what to do with this information now.

I don’t know what to think. I’m all for people changing… I know that’s possible, but… I don’t know… I just feel funny about it. Stealing… even murder I think I could have handled. But this… I guess it just hits me on a different level, ya know?

He shakes his head.

Maybe I wouldn’t think so much of it, but he’s obviously hiding it. I mean… the group of people he’s closest to don’t even know. Not that I’d want this spread around if it were me, but… I don’t know… don’t you think he would have at least told them? And… what if… I mean… it’s only been a couple years since he’s been clear. Do you think he’s really that clean now? It’s rare that someone like that ever really changes… too many times they come out of hiding when least expected to strike again. I wouldn’t want that to happen this time… but I feel funny about confronting him about it too.

Jason keeps thinking, trying to solve the issue in his mind.

He and Carson seem pretty close. Maybe I should ask Carson about it first. See what he says. If anyone won’t go blabbing without a cause, it’s him.


Phil finishes cleaning up after getting home from work, and goes to shut the cabinet in the bathroom that was ajar, and notices a pill bottle that had been knocked over. It was a prescription...that was odd. Neither he nor Kyle had been to any doctors lately.

Curious, Phil reaches in to pull it out and take a closer look. His eyebrows raise as he reads the label, before he frowns. What on earth... He hears Kyle heading down the hall, getting ready to leave for Rocky's. Quickly exiting the bathroom, Phil calls after him. "Kyle!"

"Yeah, what?" Kyle spins around, in a hurry to leave.

Phil holds up the bottle. "What's this?"

Kyle's face reddens. "Nothing."

"It doesn't look like nothing to me," Phil counters, reading the label again. "Since when have you started taking anti-depressants?"

Kyle swallows hard, not answering Phil for several seconds. "Look, just forget about it, alright? Sorry they were in your way." He turns to leave.

"Kyle, wait," Phil demands, taking several steps closer. "What's going on?"

"Nothing!" Kyle spins back around, throwing up his arms. "Just let it rest, will you?"

"I don't want to let it rest." Worry courses through Phil's eyes. "Are you all right?"

"Yeah, I'm great now." Kyle grits his teeth, his face continuing to gain color. "I have to go to Rocky's. You gonna keep me here all day?"

"How long have you been on these?"

"Who cares?"

"I care!" Phil shakes the bottle in his hand. "My brother's on uppers, and I have a right to know about it."

"It's my business," Kyle hisses. "Drop it."

"I don't want to." Phil crosses his arms. "I want to know when this started. This isn't like you, Kyle."

"Look, I'm sorry I don't tell you ever detail about my personal life. But this is something that's none of your business." He spins on his heel, stalking toward the door.

Phil holds out his hand. "Wait...just..." The door slams against his words. He sighs deeply and looks at the bottle again. Kyle had been kinda moody lately, sure... he'd been a bit evasive, and not really himself... but Phil never would have guessed that his brother would be anywhere near depressed enough to take something for it. Kyle had seemed upset sometimes lately, but this he'd hidden so well...but how long had this been going on? Phil didn't like the risks that were connected to this kind of thing.

Anytime

Sitting up Alice just thinks for a moment as she quirks her mouth a slight bit. Something seemed a little differnt in Kyle demeaner, almost like he went from cloud nine back down to earth in the snap of the fingers.

"I guess your right. But you deserve to be happy so at least acheave that and dont put off what you really want for to long because you never know when this day might be the last."

Taking Kyle's hand as her offers her up Alice walks with him back to the shelter. Putting her pad of paper and pen in her bag she looks up and gives a chuckle to Kyle and his phone.

"I guess you better get another on, or I better find a differnt way to contact you because I would like to see you again if you would let me. I think there is alot more to you I'd like to find out and many more intresting things I could write about. But thats up to you..."

Reaching into her bag once again she pulls out a busness card that has her name, phone number, and webpage writen on it.

"..Untill you decied if its ok if I do or not here is my card and just contact me whenever you want for whatever reason you want. If I dont hear from you in about three weeks though I'll find a way to get ahold of you."

Giving a wink Alice grabs her bag and holds it a little ways away from herself making sure not to get it wet. Looking down at her watch she takes note of the time. Many hours had gone by and been lost but it was worth it. She'd really enjoyed her time with Kyle.

"Well I better be getting back before the boss thinks I am playing hookie. I'm gonna have to stop home first and change my clothing though. It was nice meeting you Kyle. Your just what I exspected and nothing less."

Turning Alice stands to make her way out of the shelter but stops. Turning she stands letting the fog wrap around her. Giving a smile her eyes twinkle with the spunk that seemed to never die. Giving a wave she calls back to Kyle.

"Thanks for letting me getting to Kyle, I hope I will be able to again."

Turning once more Alice starts to walk back along the path they had come disapearing into the fog.

Score one

Though Kyle doesn't respond much, it doesn't mean he's not listening. As Alice joins him outside in the rain, his expression of bliss remains, not surprised in the least that she'd ventured into the weather as well.

Just lying in the rain, he hears Alice's words, but doesn't respond right away. He just stays, becoming soaked to the bone.

All too soon, the cloudburst moves on, and the pouring rain turns to a light drizzle, creating an eerie haze around the park. Kyle blinks and finally reaches to his face to wipe off some of the water. He gives a little sigh, cold, but unwilling to stand yet.

"Sure we can build new bridges," he finally responds. "But how much better never to have burned one in the first place? I can't judge decisions on feelings... sometimes feelings lie. And even if friends will get over something I choose, why should I put them through that in the first place? Maybe they're the ones who are right, and I'm the wrong one."

Sitting up, Kyle draws his knees up close to rest his arms on them. So quickly he'd gone from high to low. "I just can't decide what I really want, let alone what's best. Maybe just staying with JetStream is what I'm really supposed to do. Not as glamorous, but hey... I'm not in it for the glamor, right?"

He heaves a sigh. Wearily he stands up and offers Alice a hand up too before wandering back to the shelter where her bag was. Reaching into his pocket, he groans. "Aw no..."

He pulls out a dripping cell phone. "Score one, Kyle... nice job." He purses his lips and flips the phone open to see the water-damaged screen. "Well... good thing you didn't have to call me again - now I really wouldn't have returned your calls."

Shaking his head, he rolls his eyes at himself. Then looking down, he gives himself a once-over. "Not to mention there's no way I'm going to get my truck this wet. I'm gonna have to sit a while and dry off or something. Either that or take another walk."

Build

Stopping suddenly Alice has to take a few steps back to retrace and become even with Kyle again. Just staring back at him while he looks to her she can feel the smile grow a tiny bit on her face. Not only was Kyle describing her but he was describing himself as well.

Feeling the rain start to fall Alice dosnt mind it. The refreshing droplets felt nice on her skin even if it was cold out. Listing to Kyle she just soaks is up as he just continues to talk to her freely, noding her head everyone in a while letting him know she was in fact listing.

"Sometimes its easyer to talk to people who have no idea who they are because they wont judge us, or sometimes because we never will have to see them again."

As it starts to rain harder Alice follows Kyle to the sheltered area. Looking out at the rain falling Alice is almost lost in through as she still listen to Kyle talk. Folding her arms on the table she just looks over the table at Kyle.

"You know, desitions can be hard things. We never know if we are making the right ones are not, but the best way to judge them is if they feel right. I am sure your friends will understand whatever desition you make. Sure they might be upset at first but in the end they will give you there sapport."

Repositioning herself on the hard hard bench Alice sits so she is strattling the bench first and than brings her legs up to fold them indian style. Just watching the rain fall for a moment the breeze that came along with it was cold but felt good on her skin.

Seeing Kyle move out of the courner of her eye she turns her head to watching. Giving a chuckle as he stepped out into the rain Alice just shakes her head not even bothering trying to talk to him knowing he probley wouldnt hear her anyways.

Finally unfolding her legs and seeing Kyle lay on the sidewalk Alice just cocks her head for a moment. Slowly standing up she takes a few steps forward out from underneath the dry shelter herself letting the cold drops soak her to the bone. Whiping her hair out of her face she makes her way over to where Kyle layed. Slowly lowering herself down next to him Alice lays out flat the same way Kyle was.

As the rain hits her in the face she finally makes out some words yelling them for Kyle to hear.

"You know, when you burns some bridges..."

Alice turns her head and squints to look at Kyle through the rain."

"...God always makes the opertunity to build new ones."

Torn

Kyle just listens for a few minutes, not showing a whole lot of reaction, though it's evident by his face that he's surprised at some of Alice's words, and truly contemplating them.

Glancing at the picture of her, a smile quirks his mouth and he continues to listen. Letting her talk, his eyes roam the park, realizing that everything had become gray and not as many people were around. A look upward made him realize that clouds had rolled in. The scent of rain was in the air.

Bringing his focus back to Alice, he suddenly just stops walking and turns to look at her. "You're very insightful," he muses. "More so than I'd like, because you see way too much of me just by looking in my eyes. I'm tempted to be intimidated... but it's just not my nature. At least let me get even, though."

He falls silent, staring into her eyes, just studying and searching. His voice grows quiet. "You see so much... you look into people's hearts. That's uncommon for someone in your line of work. But it doesn't bother you, does it? You like being the odd one... the rebel, perhaps. It doesn't scare you to be the first to venture into the unknown."

A raindrop splashes on Kyle's face and he blinks, looking up at the sky again. Thinking quickly, he gestures to a nearby shelter. A few picnic tables were under the roof, and he straddles one of the benches, waiting for Alice to sit down too.

"I don't know why I'm telling you all this," he admits. "I shouldn't, if I know what's good for me. But... for some reason I trust you."

He runs his thumb along the wood grain of the table. "I don't know what I want, Alice. I don't know where I'm going, or what I even want to happen. I love JetStream. I always have. Not just because part of it's family, but because I love the teamwork and the performances. But nothing felt like singing for Cryptic the other night either. I've never felt so good after a show. For the first time, I felt I could finally just be me... I didn't have to worry about showing anybody up or stepping on toes."

He rolls his eyes. "Not that I think I'm all that, or the greatest or whatever. But I've never been all I could be... not with JetStream anyway. There was always somebody else in the front, and I figured my place was in the background. Sure, I sing some with them, but not like I did with Cryptic."

Kyle pauses, looking out as a slow rain starts. "And now..." He shrugs in defeat. "Don't print this, but Logan might be pulling out of Cryptic and moving on to other things. If that happens, they want me to take his place. But that leaves JetStream without a keyboard player, unless I deal with both bands. But the way JetStream reacted the other night... I don't think doing that is the best answer. So the only way not to make waves is just settle back to where I was, behind the keyboard and only behind the keyboard."

Again, he pauses. It was apparent he really had thought these things through. "I know that I can't always worry about what other people think, but they're my friends. And if I have to sacrifice something in order to keep those friendships strong, then..."

His voice trails off, and he's not even able to finish it. A scoffing laugh surfaces. "What am I saying?" He shakes his head and looks up at the shelter's rafters. "I'm miserable. And to top it all off, I've got an offer to hit the road with a group of people that has absolutely nothing to do with music. I want to get away from here so bad I can taste it. But what bridges will I be burning by doing that? I don't even know what my passions are anymore."

A downpour comes in answer to his statement, making it almost hard to hear under the roof. The rain comes down in sheets, the visibility not even allowing one to see across the park.

Kyle looks out at it, and slowly a quirky grin forms. Getting up, he steps out into the cold rain. With the moisture came a cooler temperature, and he could see his own breath in the air. Spreading out his arms, he spins under the cloudburst, not caring that he was getting totally drenched. His denim jacket is soaked within seconds, his hair matted and dripping with water.

Backing up away from the shelter, without a care as to who might be watching, Kyle lowers himself to the sidewalk and lets himself fall backward until he was lying straight out, his arms out to the sides.

Letting out a loud whoop, followed by a laugh, he just stays on the ground, soaking up the moisture. Face-up under the rain, he closes his eyes, the smile still on his face as he gets pelted with the cold rain.

I think

Alice slowly sits down her legs crossed on a nice patch of grass as she looks up at Kyle. Still listing closely she takes everything in only jotting down a few things. Her mind was like taking a picture she could remember words well and things that were by someone just saying a simple word.

Once she see Kyle start to walk again Alice jumps up and makes her way to catch up alone side of him. His energy was amazing even if it was a sugar high. Alice had to addmit it to herself it was nice to see someone alse who could keep up with her.

Hearing Kyle talk about his selfworth Alice frowns just a little bit. What could cause someone who was so full of life to think so little of themself liks this. Without even thinking about how bold it was Alice just starts to talk.

"You know Kyle, finding if someone is special or not depends on who is looking at you. Worth, is not skin deep it goes far deeper than that. If you have made a person smile, made a person love than you are worth alot. Your worth more than you know, and I find you very intresting."

For a moment Alice is quiet but than before Kyle can say anything she continues.

"What I want to get from this, is to get to know a side of Kyle Mitts than most people done care to see. Thats why I love my job. I get to look into people and things, I get to pick about the bad and the good and it helps me get to know, and understand a person better. I get to see the finer side of someone that everyone alse dosnt have time to and than I write it all out, I put it into words so others can shair what I have found out and seen. Your fasanating Kyle, and your intresting even if you think your life is boring. The finer side to you, is amazing."

Looking away Alice fiddles with her bad for a moment and than pulls out a small picture of herself from back in her highschool days when she was in the drama club. Holding it out to Kyle she smiles.

"You know back than I though I was going to be an actress. I love acting out words, and putting my own emotions to them. Than I hit a bump in the road and I was confused in what to do next. I started writing not thinking it would amount to anything. But than I relized I liked writing the words more than acting them. I liked giving emotion another way."

Leting out a sigh Alice puts the photo back into her bag and for a moment is silent as she relives her days of past.

"You see...even now I am not sure where I am headed and if this is what I will do for the rest of my life. I cant only hope. But if I step away at least I know I tryed and if this truly is what I am ment to do God will show me the way back. You gotta take those chanses and make those risks even if you know other wont agree so your gonna be stuck not going anywhere. I think, after the short time I have spent here with you, your gonna make it big someday if you just give yourself more credit than you do, and you start worrying about you more than anyone alse."

don't understand

Kyle grins and accepts the twinkie, shaking his head. "Fair warning - giving me sugar is not always a wise thing to do. But I'm not gonna stand here with my stomach interrupting us."

Unwrapping the plastic, he listens to Alice. He takes a bite of the treat, then cocks his head as he chews, one eye squinting a little as he tries to figure her out. This really was about him... He hadn't thought it would be. But it was becoming apparent by Alice's questions that it really was him she wanted to know about - not just the band. He couldn't help but be a little flattered, though he still didn't believe there was enough interesting things about him to really be making this big a deal out of it.

"Emotional side, eh?" He pauses again to finish the twinkie, stuffing the wrapper in his pocket until later when he'd find a trash can.

Kyle folds his arms across his chest, still leaning back against the tree. He never really talked to the others about how things felt. They wouldn't always understand, and he never had wanted anybody to get the wrong idea about what he was saying. They all assumed things were great, so he'd always just let them be happy and think that way. But Alice was just looking for facts, and there was no worry there about making anyone feel bad.

"You know when you find right where you're supposed to be? Like, you find your ultimate niche?" Kyle nods. "That's how it feels to be onstage. I've never been scared of it, never been nervous about it. It's in my blood, and it's hard to live without. The crowd is exciting, and getting out there to see them the first time at an event is the best adrenaline rush you could ever have. It's like being on a rollercoaster without ever having to leave the ground."

He gives a little sigh. His eyes showed a contentedness, but some turmoil as well. "The best moment? There have been two." He knew them so well. He never talked about him, but oh, he remembered them.

"When the band was just getting started, our first "real" gig was at this same park. We were the intro for a bigger band. It was the only time my dad got to see us perform like that. I remember looking out and seeing his face. He was so proud that we'd made it. And today I understand that part of it was probably because we were doing something he'd always had a dream about."

Kyle fall silent for a moment, not appreciating his own melancholy. He moves on quickly. "The other time was after a show a couple years ago. We'd played quite a few Christian songs that night and... she came up to me afterward and thanked me. Said she'd been going through a rough time, and the songs had really touched her. I knew then that I'd never take God out of a show. I don't always know what people really think, or if they really enjoy that style of music or worship, but... one time... one time was enough."

Pushing off the tree, Kyle starts to walk again, letting humor rescue him from the moment. "I'm hitting a sugar high. If I don't walk, you'll have to contend with me trying to stand still."

Forcing a grin, he shakes his head. "I don't know why you're so interested in me, let alone outside of the band. Karate is a hobby, layout and design is a hobby, and as of yesterday, don't even have a job. So... I'm nothing special, Alice. There are others out there who carry much more intriguing, much more worthy stories than me. Besides, I don't know where I'm going or what I'll even be doing two weeks from now. I got an offer for..."

His voice trails off as he realizes he may have said too much. "I just... I don't understand what you're wanting from all this."


For some reason, the grimace on Jess' face when talking about liver just hits Axel the right way. A laugh surfaces - something that not many people ever got to hear. "As long as you don't make me eat it, I won't make you eat it either."


Carson bursts through the front door of Mom and Pop's, not even bothering to use the back entrance. He knew he'd told Herb he'd be a little late this morning, but not this late. He'd enjoyed his morning with Misty so much though, that he'd had to pry himself away. At least there weren't that many customers yet today.

Jogging to the counter, he sees an opening between Mable and Aerith. Vaulting over the counter, he lands, grabs Aerith, and sweeps her into a dip. "Good morning and thank you for covering for me."

Setting her upright, he leans over to give Mable a peck on the cheek. "And good morning to you too, my dear lady. Have you kept your husband in line this morning?"

Carson grins and winks at her before heading through the double-doors. "Herb! Help has arrived!"

More about you

Alice intently listens to Kyle as he talks. Taking a few moments here and there to take her eyes from him and jot things down on her note pad. Walking and talking with him was nice she enjoyed it and listing to him talk was just as exciting. This was something she loved to do and enjoyed.

Continuing to listen and stop and go in rhythm with Kyle all her questions had been answered to a T though the few things she was looking for being left out, his emotions, his feeling. No matter his answer he dodged around it though his eyes betrayed him and she could see the emotions wanting to come out.

Alice dosnt mind as they slip off the bath. They had been walking for quite a while and it felt good to now stop. Taking a space in the shade she faces Kyle looking down at her note pad for a moment writing some more stuff down before looking up at him again and giving a soft giggle before pulling a few twinkies out of her bag. Offering one to Kyle she smile.

"I know its not much but it might be something to curve that hunger in your tummy because I am talking to you not him."

Alice cant help but laugh her he own stupid joke now figuring how stupid it probley sounded to Kyle.

"So, you answered all my question but now I think I want to know more of the emotional side of everything. Like how does it feel for you to be on stage, and what are some of the best moments you have had, whats the energy like up there. I could only imagen its quite exciting."

Drawing silent again Alice just studys Kyle for a long moment. There was something about him that made Alice for curiouse and intrested, just something about this man standing infront of her that made her want to know what it was. She found him intresting when he had hardly even said anything about himself.

"Also if you could tell me a little about yourself outside the band. Like what are some things you like to do, hobbies, where you work and stuff like that?!"

Alice holds her smile as she continues to listen to Kyle and intently watch him. Her eyes sparkling as her enthuseasum and spunk shown through for what she loved to do.

Jess lets out a playful gasp at Axel's comment. Her eyes gave a small sparkle.

"How could you say I was lying. I remember our actions but not really what we were talking about so there..."

After the words were out of her mouth Jess eyes grow just a little as color comes to her face for her boldness with Axel. Sitting back in the booth for a moment she is silent. Finally as her color goes back to normal Jess speaks again.

"Well at least your not picky. I figured you would like what I had because who does like eggs and bacon right? Ha, I'm not really that picky myself only thing you will never get me to touch is liver."

Making a face one could tell who didnt know the conversation something was said that Jess didnt like. Than after she gives a laugh. Today she felt more comfortable with Axel than she had days before. Maybe the more time she spent with him the more comfrotable she was or maybe spending the time she had with Rocky had helped her open up just a little more.

Craziest

Kyle gives a little chuckle, amused with the spark in Alice's eye and her comment about it sounding as if he'd just woken up. "You caught me."

Moving forward, he falls in step beside her, his thumbs hooked in his jeans pocket, leaving his denim jacket open, despite a cool breeze. He listens to her questions, digesting them for a moment.

A grin emerges. This was something new. Something out of the ordinary. So much had been so full of stress lately, but for some reason... right now, walking along with someone he didn't even know, it was surprisingly peaceful. He'd expected to be on edge around Alice - anyone who was curious enough to ask all the questions no one else would was enough to turn anybody off. But despite her questions, she had something about her... something that was... different... different enough that Kyle could feel it.

"Well, I don't know why you're so interested in me. I'm certainly not the most important part in either band, but... I'll bite."

He thinks for a moment, collecting his thoughts. "I'm the craziest of the bunch - anybody will tell you that. Always been that way and yes... I grew up here, and have lived here all my life. It's where my family is. You know Phil - JetStream's bass player - he's my brother. And Jen - the woman who run sounds - she's my twin sister."

All of a sudden, a frisbee comes flying out of nowhere, aiming at their heads. Reflexes cause Kyle to lash out and catch it with speed. Looking around, he sees a group of kids nearby, and rolls his eyes. Good-natured though, he throws it back to them with accuracy. Shaking his head, he starts walking again.

"My family has always been very musical, so I've been into music since I was a little kid. I started piano lessons when I was about five and fell in love with the keyboard. By junior high, me and Phil were already trying to come up with some of our own stuff to play - he liked the bass. We met Mike in school and he was already into the drums, so... we kinda had a garage band going for a while. Just kid stuff, ya know?"

It had been a long time since Kyle had thought about some of these things. There was happiness there... and a little bit of pain too. He looks down for a moment, watching his tennis shoes cover the distance of the sidewalk that wound around the park.

"Well, we wound up getting a singer off and on. Sometimes they played guitar, sometimes they didn't. But we just fooled around for a while, played in school a few times. We, um..."

Kyle's mind drifts to the hard times they had gone through. Phil's rough bout... their dad dying... Mike's wife and child dying... He shakes his head a little, trying to stay on track.

"There were downs," he admitted. "A few times we quit playing just because life got in the way. At some point we took on the name JetStream and Jen learned about running sound. We... started getting a few local gigs and... took it from there."

He shrugs, not knowing what else to say there. "Last year, Jason joined us. We had a fundraiser to play at, but we lost our lead singer. We just about canceled, but he came along and I guess the rest is history as far as that's concerned. Ever since he walked out on stage with us, the band hasn't been the same, and I mean in a good way. The audience loves him and he's added so much."

Kyle didn't mind singing Jason's praises. As far as he was concerned, Jason really had been the glue to hold the band together lately. "If anybody should be interviewed, it's him," he comments. "He's probably had the most interesting life, not to mention, he's probably the most talented of all of us. If you really want a good story, you should call him up, not me."

He pauses, making sure he gets everything. "Katie came along right after Jason, since he was in law enforcement and so is she, so she took up the role of watching our backs. We decided as a band that it was worth the risk. So far we haven't had any incidents to speak of."

Stepping off the path, Kyle leans back against a tree so he can face Alice, and for a moment, he just studies her face before getting back on track.

"We were friends with the guys and girl in Cryptic from school. We hung out, did some music events together, but we just naturally split up into our two groups. Difference of music tastes, and different friendships. I really don't know the ins and outs of their band, but they started in a similar way to JetStream. A while back though, they were doing well enough to get a contract and travel. They hit the road and they'd have to tell you about their adventures there. I guess they picked up their sound guy, Axel only about a year ago, but otherwise they're all the original group still together."

He pauses again and finally just shrugs. "Logan, their lead singer, was sick the other night, so I just filled in for him. That's the only reason I wound up on stage with them, if that's what you noticed."

A dog barking is a distraction and Kyle's eyes roam the park for a moment. Time was passing quickly, even though he was really summarizing everything. There were so many details he'd left out... he'd left almost all emotion out of everything he'd said, never talking about how he felt. It was just facts. But he knew Alice wouldn't want to be here all day.

His hands in his pockets, he shakes his head a little. "I don't know what you want the conclusion of this one story to be, but I don't know what the future looks like, Alice. You may think my transition between bands was fascinating, but not everybody shares that interest."

Though he tries to hide it, it's obvious by his eyes that there had been a lot more downs than ups lately, whether in the band, or just for him personally. He can feel his tone getting sharp, and makes an effort to soften it out again. His growling stomach gives him the humorous outlet he needs, and he gives a little laugh.

"Guess my stomach doesn't share much interest either." He cocks his head. "Did I answer all your questions?"


Axel's eyes narrow, though there is a humorous glint as he stares at Jess after her statement that she didn't remember where they'd been. "Liar," he accuses. But a knowing grin breaks through. He would respect any time that Jess withdrew. His was not to push, but to wait and watch the bloom.

"Thanks for ordering." He nods. "I like just about anything, so that's great."


"How we doing back there?"

Luke looks up the aisle to where Gunner was looking back from the pilot's cabin. "We're alright."

Jeff glances to his friend who was trying to stretch out in the small plane. "What's it looking like, Gunner?"

"Making good time. We'll get ya there, don't worry."