Frustrations

Kyle continues to stand, his back to Katie. He knew he loved music... and his own grandmother's words hadn't left him. But right now, it didn't do much to boost his spirits. Anything that didn't help fix this didn't seem like anything to consider.

Katie's words ran through his mind, but before he can respond, he sees the strange vehicle. He hadn't noticed the other day what Alice had been driving, so he was a bit surprised to see her as she pulls up and rolls down the window. He knew his eyes were red. He knew the look on his face was not one of some happy rock star. But he didn't try to cover it up... not this time. A smile just wouldn't come.

Her invitation and dilemma are barely heard. All Kyle can remember are her words from the day before, mixing with Katie's now. Out of nowhere, his raised voice comes.

"A rift isn't inevitable! I don't care how danged important music is to me, it's not more important than my friends! And if music is tearing us apart then to heck with it!"

He throws his arms up in the air, his frustrations coming out. "I don't care what either of you say. If my dreams are more important than my friends and family, then it's me who's got the problem, not them."

The tears that had built up earlier threatened again, but didn't spill over. Kyle shakes his head in defeat. "Why can't anybody just tell me it really is me with the problem, when that's the truth? Maybe the others could be more understanding, but they're right... split loyalties will only make things worse. I should be able to make up my mind."

Kyle stops his rant and runs his hands over his face. Turning around, he leans back against Alice's jeep. His eyes lowered along with his tone, he gestures between the two women. "Alice, Katie. Katie, Alice." He sighs deeply, totally defeated.

Looking back up at Katie, he apologizes. "I'm sorry, Hero. Thanks for coming after me." Turning his head, he looks at Alice. "As for you... I'll tell you how to get where you're going, but I highly doubt you want someone like me to keep you company today."


"Knock knock."

"Mm-hmm..." Reese is busy looking over some paperwork and doesn't look up. "What is it?"

Gunner leans on the doorway and hooks his hands in his pockets. "Well that's a fine welcome."

Looking up quickly, Reese's eyes widen. "Brent?"

Gunner smiles. "Surprise."

"Well how did you...?"

"I figured somebody in the infirmary might fill you in. I'm the one that brought the two guys from Texas."

"Ohhh." Now Reese understood. "Well it's great to see you. Come in, sit down."

Gunner accepts the invitation and takes an empty chair. "So you're the big boss now, 'eh?"

Reese chuckles. "Guess so. What were you doing in Texas anyway? I thought you were in Arizona."

"Arizona?!" Gunner's eyes widen. "I've been in Texas since we first got sent there."

"What? I was told that you'd been moved around at least twice now. Nobody's supposed to be off base for that long."

"Well tell that to our dear friend Austin." Gunner cocks his head. "I just about grew roots in that shack called a cabin."

"For pity sake..." Reese grabs a piece of paper to scribble a note. "Why didn't you say anything. You want back here?"

Gunner leaned forward, not wanting to hope. "For real?"

"Sure. I can get someone else in Texas to replace you if you want. Why haven't you requested that?"

Gunner shrugs. "Figured I didn't have much say and I didn't want to lose my job. You're serious? About me coming back?"

"Your cubicle is still unoccupied."

A smile surfaces beneath Gunner's beard. "That's got to be the best invitation I've heard in a long time. You got stuff for me to do?"

Reese looks up as if Gunner was stupid. "You know better than to ask a question like that."


Carson throws a few things into his backpack, picking out only the bare essentials. Stepping back out into the hall, he gives one last look around, knowing he's got to be satisfied with what he's got. Anything else he could get through the Elite.

Back into the living room, he sighs and looks at Misty. "Guess that's it. I'll call Dani when I get back to TJY and Herb too, to let him know what's going on. I'm pretty sure he'll understand. And..." He shrugs. "That's that."

Moving towards her, he sets his backpack on the couch, then sets his hands on Misty's shoulders, giving them a little rub. "I hope I'm not gone too long... I'm gonna miss that smile of yours."

He tilts her chin up with a finger so he can stare down into her eyes. He was worried. Despite his excitement to be back on a case and back into some action, this would require getting very close to the Agency. And for someone like him, who had betrayed them, it was dangerous. He could only hope and pray that things went smoothly with the team he chose.

A sly grin curls the edge of his mouth, and his tone quiets. "I better stock up before I leave." Leaning in, he kisses her lips, his hands moving down to draw her in close.

Indoor Fair

Looking up at Carson Misty gives a smile. Bringing her own hand to his face she just runs a thumb over his cheek.

"I always new the end was no where near."

Leaning in Misty gives Carson a kiss on the lips before pulling away and just leaning her head on his head for a moment. So many things ran through her mind and so many options. Having Carson all the way across country she new would be a little nerve rattaling but she had to trust him and know he would be ok. Not to mention he was bringing a team with him.

"I know I cant go with you, even if I want to. This isnt a joy ride and I...can deal with staying behind. You just becarfel you hear me?"

Giving him another hug Misty finally backs away any smiles. She really did want to go but deep down she new that there was a greater reason there of why she was told to stay behind. And for the first time Misty felt at peace with it.

"Sure, I can drive ya back home and than here again not a problem at all."

Grabbing her keys from her desk she informs Rick she will be right back and than checks on Angel one more time before leaving. Smiling as she see the Luke had finally fallen asleep himself.

"Alright lets get goin."

Letting out a small sigh Katie just listens to Kyle. The pain in his voice was great and though she new he was not upset with her she couldnt help but feel the pain that was there. She hated seeing her friends hurt. She felt helpless not knowing exacly what was going on with him.

"Selfish or not you deserve to be happy and have what you want to Kyle. Some people might not understand but they would get use to the idea."

Closing the passanger side door Katie hurrys to catch up with Kyle and walk along side of him for a long moment before stoping and just looking out at the harizon.

"You love music more than anything Kyle, and as for rifts they are inavitable. they are gonna hap...."

Katie sentince is cut off by the sound of a horn as a car approches. Just looking at the red jeep for a long moment Katie dosnt reconise who it is.

Turning down the dirt road Alice figure maybe this would lead to where she wanted to go. Continuing down the road she spots two cars on the side and than two people. Drawing closer she notices one is Kyle. The look on his face is anything but happy and for a moment Alice's heart goes out to him.

Not knowing who the young lady was with him Alice remembers Kyle said he had no girlfriend so hat rules that out.

Laying on the horn as she draws closer Alice's smile remains on her face as she rolls her window down and leans out just a little. Giving a nod to Katie she looks to Kyle.

"Facny meeting you out here. I've seemed to actully gotten myself lost. I am trying to get to the next town over for the little indoor fair they are gaving. I wanted to take some pictures and what not."

Alice stops for a moment searching Kyle's face. How sad and tired his eyes looks. Much differnt from the day before.

"You could always use some comapny I am bad with direction. If you would like to come with and direct me there. Not to mention I hurd its alot of fun."

A mistake

Life had suddenly turned upside down once more. For Carson, it was a taste of what he used to love. He'd become satisfied with his everyday life... but he wasn't going to pass up this chance. The only catch was that the success of this mission was on his shoulders, not someone else's.

Standing back, he watches Misty work with Angel, his mind working overtime.

Jeff paces for a few minutes, then finally wanders out of the infirmary to find something to eat. Luke stays by Angel's side, his hand still in hers, though his eyelids grow heavier and heavier until he's finally fallen into a light sleep.

Carson still watches. It was quiet enough that the ticking clock on the wall seemed to be a loud gong. He had to figure out what he needed. He had to form a plan. He had to figure out where they needed to go in Australia and who they could meet up with once they were there. They would need an ally.

Sighing, he wanders over to Misty's desk where she was standing, and wraps his arms around her waste from behind, leaning so his chin rested on her shoulder. "Looks like this Aussie of yours still has an adventure or two left in him."

Moving around, he gives Misty's lips a kiss. "I'd take you with me, but you need to stay here and help Rick." In the back of his mind, he knew another reason too, but he would probably get into trouble for saying it.

A smile makes its way to Carson's face and he puts a hand to Misty's cheek, running a thumb over her lips. "Behave yourself while I'm gone, will you?"

He wants to stay. He wants this to just be a social call so he could hang around and spend some time with Misty. But he knows he can't. "I need a ride back home to get some things. Can you run me there and back really quick? Anything else I can do over the phone."


Kyle sees Katie's car in his side mirror, but doesn't make a move to leave. He wasn't surprised to see her... if anyone would have noticed his whereabouts, it would be her... she saw everything.

As she comes around to the passenger side of his truck, he doesn't look at her. His eyes remain fixed on the road ahead that led to nowhere. Part of him wanted to be left alone. And part of him didn't want to feel lonely.

"Whether or not I feel alone really isn't the issue here, is it?" he finally answers. His tone was cooler than normal, especially when talking to Katie. But much more was the hurt underneath the tone. "The issue is my selfish nature, getting me into a mess like this and risking friendships over something as silly as a dream."

Shaking his head, Kyle gets out on his side, shutting the door a little harder than need be. Stuffing his keys in his pocket, he trudges down the road, knowing that Katie will follow. Putting his hands in his jacket pockets, he takes in a deep breath. The air was crisp, but the sun was warm.

"I don't even know what I want anymore, Katie." His statement was quiet, but he knew she'd hear. "I know I'm not alone. I know my attitude sucks, and I know I'm taking things way too personally. But I just..."

His voice cracks. His emotions hit him unexpectedly, a sudden low that he hates. But the burning tears behind his eyes don't pay head to his will to hold them back. His attempts to subdue his plummeting emotions had only served to worsen them.

Stopping, he deliberately keeps his back to Katie, taking an angry swipe at his eyes. "Dang it," he mutters under his breath. This really was ridiculous. There was no call for a display like this. But never had he felt so out of control when it came to his feelings.

"All I'm doing is creating a rift between the bands," he mumbles. "It isn't worth it. I should just leave and let everyone be. It was a mistake to get wrapped up in Cryptic... maybe pursuing music was a mistake in the first place."

Not alone

Standing but still listing Misty heads to the cabinet to see what they had to allergy medication or if they had any benadryl left. Listing closly for a moment Misty's heart seems to race. Carson back in action under TJY. Memories of a time long past floor her mind as a small smile comes to her lips.

Turning around Misty readys a sarynge as her eyes meet Carson's for a moment and she can see the flame in them of something he thought was lost. Giving a nod and a smile she gives him the silent encuragment.

Drawing near Angel Misty leans over her giving her a soft smile as she spoke.

"Angel, I am just going to give you some Benadryl ok? We are gonna see if it cant help at all for you. You hang in there alright."

Once at Mike's Katie takes up her normal spot down stairs on the coutch. Just relaxing and listing to the music. but as the minutes drone on the tention can be felt till the emplotion happens.

To shocked by many things Katie is not sure what to say. Hearing that Kyle was drpressed was a shocker in itself. Just sitting almost frozen Katie isnt sure what to think as Kyle leaves. She felt bad for him, and she also felt back for Jason. So much was going on with him.

Following him up the steps Katie is about to say something but stops as she receves his message.

Ok, I'll be around just let me know if you wanna do anything later.

Heading to her own car and glancing up Katie takes note that Kyle didnt turn down the way he normaly did. Something didnt feel right and Katie didnt like the feeling of not knowing. Getting into her car she pull sout of Mike's parking lot and goes the same why Kyle did.

Thinking she lost him she is about to turn around when she see his truck up ahead stoped on the side of the road. Parking her car behind his Katie gets out and goes to the passanger side knocking on the window first and than opening the door.

"You know, they don't call me Hero just because I can talk to Jason. I'm a good listinger, a good friend, and I wont judge you. I can even sit here all day just dont you dont feel alone, Because your not Kyle."

Depression

Carson stands for a moment, unsure of what was going on. But he did know what Misty was implying. If they were going to save Angel's life, they needed the antidote. If they needed the antidote, someone would have to go to Australia to get it. And if someone had to go to Australia, Carson was first to come to mind.

His mind races as he tries to think of how something like that could be accomplished, while at the same time, trying to remember anything that would help them now.

"I don't know enough about this stuff." He shakes his head. "They didn't want anything else to be able to hold off the affects of the poison, so it's specifically engineered to not be thwarted by anything." He takes a deep breath and runs a hand over his face. "Benadryl."

Rick lifts his eyebrows. "What?"

"You know - something for allergies."

"Yes, so?"

Carson keeps racking his brain. "So the way two-sixty-seven works, part of it like, convinces the body that there's something foreign there in order to create an allergic reaction. It's not really, but that's the way the body reacts. Once the immune system targets the poison and tries to get rid of it, the next level of the poison gets through the back door."

He keeps thinking, not even sure if this was making sense, or if what he remembered really was accurate. "So if you give her something like Benadryl, it might trick the body into think it's got help, and leave that first-step dosage alone, allowing the immune system to start battling what's really affecting her. It might buy her some time."

Rick glances to Misty and gives a little shrug. "It's worth a try. In the meantime though..." He looks back to Carson. "What about Australia?"

"What about it? I got kicked off this team, remember?" Carson's eyes fall as he realizes that a small portion of bitterness over the past still remained. "You'll have to take it up with Austin I guess."

"Reese," Rick corrects.

"What?"

"Long story." Rick goes to the phone and picks it up, dialing Reese's office and requesting he come to the infirmary.

Within seconds, Reese is there, asking what's going on. A brief explanation brings him up to date quickly, after first finding out who these strangers are. Being told about the poison and the dire need for the antidote, all that was left was the silence after explaining where one would need to go.

Reese hooks his thumbs in his pockets and looks between everyone in the room. Those from the ranch... his physicians... and someone he wished had stayed on the straight and narrow to begin with. "What are you recommending?" he asks Rick.

Rick sighs deeply. "We need the antidote if we're going to save Angel's life. And... quite frankly, if they've gotten to her, they may get to someone else. If that's the case, then getting the antidote will not only help this case, but may help us prevent others. It's in TJY's best interest to go find it."

"And... who would be on the team to find it?"

"That's why you're here." There was no teasing in Rick's voice. He was serious. No one could decide that but Reese.

Reese purses his lips as he thinks. He knew time was crucial right now. But even so, no one would be able to leave until tomorrow at the earliest. Finally he looks over to Carson. "Mr. Banks?"

"Yes?"

"What say you?"

Carson glances to Misty, then back to Reese. "I say you need someone who knows where they're going."

"Are you volunteering?"

"Can I?" Carson cocks his head. "Wouldn't that be frowned upon?"

"Does my authority mean nothing to you?" Reese's eyes show a fiery glint. "I'm the boss here for a reason. Maybe some would complain because of your record, but we brought you here once when your record was quite colorful. I don't see why we can't now."

Despite the rush of adrenaline the mere thought of the mission stirred up, Carson withholds any plans in his mind. "I'm a civilian now, Reese."

"Are you saying you've forgotten how to do you your job?"

The question brings on the desired defense. "Of course not."

"Then what's your problem? Can you lead a team to Australia and bring us back the antidote?"

Carson looks to Misty one more time. "I'm the only man you got that can get you anywhere close."

"Then you make plans to leave," Reese states flatly. "But this case is confidential." He looks around the room. "Those of us here at TJY may know about it. But the public will be kept unaware, is that understood?" Receiving nods, he turns to Carson again. "How many men?"

"Give me an hour to tell you."

"You got it. Soon as you know what you need, see me. From now until you get back, you're mine."

Once Reese is gone, Carson is quiet for several moments. But in his eyes is an old fire... one that had been dying to be lit again. Turning, he just looks at Misty for a long minute. If only for a short time... it felt good to be back.


Jason grins as he backs out of the driveway. He loved Katie's sense of humor.

Oh, just meet me at Mike's I guess. That way if anything comes up or Reese calls me back in or something, we can be split up. Phil and Mike gotta quit about one o'clock, so I told Reese I'd be in after that. I might wind up playing hookie the whole day though, depending.

Humor laces his silent words.

The time is now. Race ya there.

It's not long before JetStream is in Mike's basement, talking and practicing. While laughter came though, something still wasn't right. Tension was there... one that no one wanted to talk about or admit to...

"...and I am not alone."

The music continues, then falls apart until everyone has stopped. Kyle's shoulders drop and he rubs his forehead tiredly. "Can we just skip over this one?"

Jason sighs in frustration. "Kyle, we've gone over this song five times already. Now what?"

"It's just not..." Kyle shakes his head. "I don't know. "It just doesn't feel right."

"Well do you want to do it?" Though Jason hadn't meant to snap, the tone of his voice showed his true feelings of annoyance that Kyle wasn't pleased, and that Jason was tired of pretending he was over the other night.

Kyle's face reddens. "Look, I told you when you got here that that's not what I want. I said we'd just keep going like always."

He had. As soon as the band had gathered in Mike's basement, Kyle had addressed the night of the concert and had apologized to everyone. Though Jason had accepted, the tension still ran thick.

Jason looks down at his guitar.

He said it alright, but did he mean it? You can't tell me that after the other night, he doesn't want to be in my place right now, in the spotlight. I can't even sing right for him anymore.

"Okay, guys," Phil intervenes before an argument starts. "Lets just take a breather, shall we?"

"A breather won't fix this," Jason retorts.

"Come on, Jase," Jen prompts gently from her seat at the bottom of the stairs. "We all need a break."

Receiving the reprimand, no matter how gentle it was, and no matter the kind intentions behind it, was not the thing to do. Jason grits his teeth, now embarrassment falling into the pot of mixed emotions. Not letting himself give up on the moment, he raises his eyes to look at Kyle, defying Jen's words. "What about Cryptic?"

His question creates a silence no one enjoyed. Kyle looks down at his keyboard, running a finger along the silent keys. "Logan's pulling out."

Mike's eyes widen. "What? Why?"

"Doctor warned him that his vocal chords are being strained too much. He opted to take an extended time-out before too much damage occurred."

Phil lets out a low whistle. "Yeah, he's been going at it pretty hard for a while now. What are they going to do?"

Kyle shrugs.

Jason's eyes narrow. "They asked you to take his place, didn't they?"

Finally Kyle looks up at him. "What if they did?"

"Then I'd say thanks alot for leaving us all behind."

"I wouldn't have to," Kyle argues. "I can still play for JetStream."

"And wear yourself out?" Jen asks, now equally concerned.

Kyle throws up his arms. "No one cared about what happened to me before, why start now? As long as I'm standing here behind my keyboard and filling in the cracks for y'all, everything is good and happy, right? As long as I don't question anything. As long as Kyle doesn't ever want to move up from where he is, everything is just hunky dory, is that it?"

An outburst from him is rare, and it is noted as such. No one knows what to say.

Kyle's own nerves get the best of him as his stomach starts to revolt. Leaving the room quickly, he heads down the hall to the basement bathroom before throwing up.

Phil sighs. "He was doing that last night too. I think it's those meds he's on."

Jen looks up quickly, surprised and confused. "What?"

Phil cringes. He hadn't meant to say anything. "Nothing."

"No, tell me."

"You want me to get on Kyle's bad side even more?"

Jen's eyes narrow. "Tell me, Phil. What's going on?"

"He's taking some sort of depression meds."

Surprise hits everyone. Jason even lifts his eyebrows, now almost feeling badly for his own pressure on Kyle tonight.

Depressed? Maybe he's been a bit down lately, but depressed? Kyle? That seems impossible.

Jen swallows hard. "Well what... I mean... did he talk to you about it?"

"No. I accidentally found out."

"How long has he been taking something?"

"He wouldn't tell me. I don't think it's been too long though." Phil unstraps his bass guitar and sets it on its stand. "I think we better call it a night."

Mike purses his lips grimly. "We got a concert coming up."

"I know."

"What do we do?"

Phil shakes his head. "Well if we keep on bickering, we're not going to get anywhere." He throws a look in Jason's direction. "If Kyle wants to help out Cryptic, then so be it. I'm not going to stop him."

"He should remain loyal to one band," Jason counters.

"Look I didn't say I was happy about it," Phil adds. "But I'm not going to be the first to ask him to leave JetStream. If his venture with Cryptic interferes, that's one thing. But if he can keep up and nothing changes here, then I don't see a problem. In the meantime, I say lay off of him. Something's going on with him and I don't know what it is. But harping on him isn't going to solve anything."

Kyle reemerging makes the room fall silent. He can feel everyone's eyes on him, and keeps his own gaze down as he trudges to the keyboard where he retrieves his jacket and truck keys.

Jen tries to stop him. "Kyle, you sure you feel up to driving home? Why don't you..."

"Just leave me alone," Kyle retorts quietly. He'd heard everything. "I'll see you guys later."

"But, wait, I..." Tears fill Jen's eyes as she watches her brother head upstairs alone. Having her twin hurting was almost bad as if she herself was.

Jason's eyes fall to the floor and he slowly stands up to put his own guitar away. "Give me a call for the next practice... I have to get to work."

Phil nods solemnly. "Alright."

Without saying any more, Jason goes upstairs and out, ready to drive to TJY for the rest of the day.

Sorry, Hero... I don't know if I'm really going back to work or not... give me a while to cool off, will ya?

He slips into his truck and pulls out, heading back towards town, but with no real destination in mind.

Few would notice that Kyle's truck had not headed back to town, but had been driven the opposite direction, pulling over on a deserted dirt road.

Help Aid

Looking up at Carson Misty's eyes show her worry. If the research on this was in Australia, that ment to see if there was a cure someone would have to go there as well. Misty could only think of one person who new the outback like the back of his hand and that was because he grew up there.

"If it means saving Angel's life, I think it would be worth a shot to see about an antidote. But I guess thats really up to whoever we can see will go if they want to or not."

Giving a glance to Carson and than to Rick a worry cross Misty's eyes. She didnt know how long Angel had but from her progression she didn't think she had long at all.

"I honestly dont know how much long she is gonna hold on, but if you can tell me anything you remember Hun that was in the formula I might be able to whip something up that can help her hold her on longer and put her in a little bit more of a comfort zone. Its not a promise but its a shot in the dark to help."

Giving a laugh as she continues to get read Katie cant help but agree.

Hey I asked a long time ago when I was gonna get a cape and be able to fly. If anyone gets it first its me.

Running a comb through her hair Katie thinks for a long moment before replying to Jason. A day off did sound kind of nice and spending the day with Jason was even better on top of it.

I think spending the day with you are the guys would be fun. Maybe we could hit up something to eat as well. When and should I just drive to your place and we will head up together?

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.