People to Save

Only hearing a bit of Scott's story Hope's heart acks for this man she had gotten to know. In her line of work she saw many things and hurd alot, but never had she incountered something that ran so deep before.

Hope didnt know who the Agency was, or how they worked but from she was told, or had hurd she new this was there meathod. To inflict pain, and to burn into the mind of there victomes these images, this fear. This is what the Agency wanted so if there victoms ever got away they wouldnt live long, or would be to scaired to talk.

Giving Scott a few moments by himself Hope finally enters the bathroom with him. Squating down next to him she lays a gentil hand on his back and rubs just a little.

"Hey you did good, and you dont have to tell me any more now ok?!"

Continuing to sit there with Scott for a little bit Hope is just silent, letting the quiet rain and fill the air but all the time she keeps her hand on Scott's back to let him know he was not alone. Finally though she speaks again though the words were few.

"Are you going to be ok?"

Katie looks at Ryder and quirks a grin taking the shirt from him.

"Maybe we should pain are face too, they are white as well."

Trying to find humor in her own joke Katie knows it failed and rolls her eyes at herself. Hearing Jason's comment she gives him a quick soft jab to the ribs.

"Oh yeah lucky me."

Shaking her head Katie puts the shirt on over the tank top and tucks it. Checking her gun one more time Katie gives a swift nod.

"So are we gonna stand here all day or what? We have people to save you know."

Giving a smile to Ryder and than the others Katie makes her way out the door breathing in the fresh air.

"6:30...I can handle that. Its good to get an early glimps of a rainbow anywas."

Jess can't help the smile that creeped across her face, after everything strange that had been going on seeing people she liked to be around and felt comfortable would be nice.

"Getting out of the house is gonna be good for me tonight. I'll see ya about that time. Thanks."

Hanging up the phone Jess goes back into the kitchen to put her items away. She couldnt help but be a little bit excited about going to the consert tonight.

Emotions

All three guys are also ready and waiting in the kitchen when Katie joins them. Ryder quirks an eyebrow and gives her a once over. "Daughter of Rambo comes to Australia. Look out world."

Carson chuckles, unable to help but toss Katie a wink.

Ryder ambles past Katie, then comes back with a khaki t-shirt. "Sorry, mate, but we're not gonna surrender yet. Waving a white flag around won't do any of us any good."

Jason had already been warned that the lookout point was out in the open, so he and Carson and Ryder were already in green or khaki colored clothes. He grins at Katie. "Nothing like wearing another guy's shirt," he teases.


"Axel?"

Axel turns around in the shop office to see Darrel. "Yeah?"

Darrel's face showed tension. "Listen, um... I don't know how to say this..."

A chill runs down Axel's spine. "What is it?"

"I just got a call back about some employment paperwork we were filing. I'm sorry, but... I didn't know about your past conviction."

Axel sets down the papers on the desk, his jaw tightening. "What are you saying?"

Darrel clears his throat awkwardly. "We have women here all the time, Axel. And... if any of them knew about this... we'd be running on a fine line. I can't afford to lose business."

Axel purses his lips and gives a defeated nod. "I understand. I'll go pack my things."

"Look, don't do anything yet." Darrel stops him from leaving. "I'll have to talk to some others. You're a good mechanic and I don't want to lose you if I don't have to. Just... I'll have to request a mandatory leave until a decision is made. If you decide to quit during that time, it's up to you. I can't guarantee what the outcome will be."

"Yeah." Axel forces a short laugh. He knew how this worked. "Sure. You talk to the important guys, figure out if keeping me is worth the losses." He takes a deep breath to let it out slowly. "I'll think about it."

"I'm sorry, I just..."

"No," Axel cuts him off. "It's not your fault. Just, um... call me, I guess."

"Okay." Darrel watches, helpless as Axel walks away.

Axel leaves the shop, not bothering to tell the other guys, and trudges slowly up the steps to his apartment. Getting inside, he eases down in his chair to put his face in his hands. He'd known this might happen. But why did it have to be here and now?

Finally finding himself again, he fishes his cell phone out of his pocket, checking to see who had called while he'd been talking to Darrel. Listening to the message, he hesitates calling Jess back. No... he needed to. He needed to just move on as if everything were fine. Even if he lost his job, his friends needn't know why. It was better that way. As long as he didn't put up a fight or make a stink about the whole thing, no one else would ever find out the details.

Dialing, he closes his eyes and sinks back in the chair, forcing his voice to be as light as always. "Hey, Stormy. Yeah, I'm going tonight." He grins, even tho Jess can't see him. "You can always tag along, you know that. I'm planning to get there about six-thirty to see if JetStream needs a hand before it starts. Feel free to come on down then too."


Scott keeps his eyes out the window, hearing Hope's words, but afraid to digest them. He felt sick just considering the thought of talking about what had happened. But a part of him longed to rid himself of those emotions and blocked memories. Part of him longed to be free of the prison they were holding them in.

Hope didn't usually prompt him like this. It was uncomfortable. But he knew she knew what she was doing, and if she didn't think he could do it, she wouldn't have asked him to.

Finally he turns to look at her, and he just studies her eyes for a long moment. She was like a sponge, there to absorb anything, no matter how disturbing or emotionally shocking it was. She was willing to help unburden those who came to see her and try to help them live again.

Scott swallows hard and moves away from the window, putting his hands back in his hoodie pockets. He goes and sits down in one of the chairs, sliding down to slouch and just think. In less than a minute though, he's back on his feet again, pacing. He takes his glasses off and rubs his blind eye, not realizing it had become a nervous tell. Sitting back down, he fidgets with his glasses in his hand, not caring if things were a bit blurry. He stands again and returns to the window. Sighing, he just takes several minutes to ponder some more, the tension evident as his jaw muscles tightened and relaxed over and over.

Returning to the chair again, he picks up his camera and fidgets with it until he finds the setting he wants. Seeing Hope is back at her desk, he lifts the camera to his eye and brings her face into focus. "They wanted information."

Click

"They thought if they tortured me enough that they'd find out the master passwords into TJY's system."

The camera turns to take an upright shot. Click

"They took me into the chamber and chained me to a chair."

Click

Scott's voice wavers as a bead of sweat trickles down the side of his face. But he continues to look at Hope through the camera. "I passed out after the first beating."

Click

"When I woke up, I'd been patched up. Their physicians had looked at my eye, and gotten me cleaned up from the explosion and the first torture session."

Click

"They wanted to win my trust. Wanted to make me feel good. They promised they would let me go if I just gave them what they wanted." He swallows hard, lowering the camera to see the pictures he'd just taken. "I didn't talk."

He raises the camera again. "Mornings I spent in the torture chamber. Afternoons I spent behind a desk in front of a computer with two men behind me, beating me until I couldn't think anymore. Nights were spent in the dungeon."

Click

A tear runs down Scott's face. "They fed me rice, water, and once in a while some bread."

Click

"When I wouldn't budge, they showed me what happened to people who didn't talk." Scott's finger hovered on the button, but he lets go, lowering the camera again, his emotion-filled eyes remaining downcast. "I never knew her name. One of the thugs held me... while the other one started beating her. I... I screamed... I fought.. but I couldn't...."

All of a sudden, Scott's face pales and he sets the camera down on Hope's desk. "I'm sorry," he whispers. Turning quickly, it's a fast aim to the door and out. But it's not the exit he's headed for this time - it's the bathroom. Barely making it, he throws up, the emotional strain too much for his body to handle.

Strange

Opening her eyes slowly a smile forms on her face. Waking up to a cup of coffee was great and to Jason's face even better. Sitting up just a little bit Katie takes the coffee and sips it glancing to the window for a moment.

"I guess he dosnt want to wast any daylight huh?"

With minutes Katie is showered, dressed, coffee gone , gun loaded, and a small backpack with a few things slung on her back.

Some might think it was funny to see Katie in hiking boots, camo pants, and a white wife beater with a bandad tucked nicly under her hair but Katie new her old ranch atire would come in handy again sometime.

"I'm ready as I even am gonna be."

Standing from her desk Hope makes her way over to where Scott was. She had become very proude of his over the last few weeks. Even the slightest of change ment alot and was a step forward.

"Your not wasting my time Scott. You have been making improvments and even if they were small they are still there and I see them and am pleased with what I see."

Stoping alongside Scott Hope just looks out the window with him. It was a bit cloudy out today but the sun was trying to shine through.

"You know Scott I was thinking, I know you dont like talking about what happend to you and I would never force you to by any means. But I was thinking maybe if you feel up to it, you could breakdown what happend to you into numbers or me or make even put together pictures. I'd like to take that last step forward with you. I believe your strong enough now if your willing to just try. Dosnt even have to be the whole thing only a peace. If you would like to bring someone alse here with you to make you feel more comfortable you are more than welcome you. I'd even allow you to bring Domino."

Hope gives a soft smile to Scott. She didnt want to push him to much, but maybe a little bump was good.

Hearing Kyle's voice Alice smile.

"I see you got your phone fixed."

Letting his invatation liner for a moment Alice finally speaks again a little noise going on in the background of papers rustaling and some shouting.

"Seven at the plaza, sure I'll be there. Think I should bring some sugar for you too? I'll be there around 6:30. Cant wait to see you than."

Hanging up the phone Alice cant help but smile and shake her head. She was happy Kyle had invited her and today it would just be for enjoyment and sapport of a friend. No work involved.

Dialing Axel's number Jess waits till finally the vocie mail picks up.

"Hey Axel its Jess. I was wondering if you were going to the Jetstream consert
tonight. If you were I was gonna ask if I could tag along. Well just let me know. Thanks."

Haning up the phone Jess pulls all of her bags out of her car and makes her way to the front door.

Fumbaling around for the key for a moment Jess goes to unlock the door but finds it open already. That was odd she always locked the door when she left the house. Feeling the hairs on the back of her neck stiffen Jess opens the door the rest of the way and sets her bags down inside. Flicking the lights on she does a quick search of the apartment and see nothing out of place. Finding it odd but nothing wrong Jess could only assume that because she was in a hurry she forgot to lock the door this morning and for now, she would believe it.

Last time

Ryder lifts his face to rest his chin on his hands instead. "Thanks Katie." Though he was grateful, the hope had left his voice. "Carson's right... it isn't worth risking you guys. If TJY was confident he really wanted to be on the right side, they would have sent a team in already, but all they have is proof of him collaborating with the Agency, so I guess I can't really blame them." He pauses. "I'm sorry I didn't tell you right off the bat. Guess I just knew how it would turn out anyway. Appreciate your heart though."

Silent for several moments, he finally rises from the swing without looking back at Katie. "Goodnight. Can't find something or need anything, holler. I'll be in the back room." And then he is gone, the porch quiet, the night settling into its fullness.


Jason ease own on the edge of the bed and reaches up to push aside a lock of Katie's hair. He smiles a little and just watches her sleep for several moments. Finally though, he leans forward and puts the hot cop of coffee nearer her nose. "Good morning, princess," he rouses gently. "Carson's pushing to get out of here asap, so we have to roll before the sun."

Ryder holsters his handgun, then throws his blanket back over his bed. Bending down, he laces up his boots, slaps on his watch and grabs his binoculars and water canteen. Carson wanted to get to the vantage point before it got too hot, and Ryder would get them there if it killed him. Carson didn't trust him, but he'd show him he was on their side.

Carson downs his coffee and throws the leftover in the sink. "Daylight's burning!" he calls loudly.

"Sun isn't up yet," Ryder reminds, coming around the corner. "You ready for a trek?"

"Always."


Scott stands at the window, his hands in his pockets. He was worried about Angel. He was worried about Jason and Katie. He missed his house. He missed stability. He missed the desire to work. His stomach hurt and his heat hurt. He missed his dog.

Today had been a quiet visit to Hope. He hadn't spoken much. Hope hadn't pushed him. He just felt tired.

He keeps staring out the window. His camera was back on a chair, waiting to be used, but he hadn't yet. "I feel like I'm wasting your time," he mentions quietly.


"Kyle! You gonna be ready tonight?"

Kyle pries one eye open as he hears Phil's voice on the other side of his closed door. "Mm-hmm," he mumbles.

"Alright. Mike's at three. Got it? ...Kyle?"

"Yeah, yeah." Kyle yawns and stretches. His body ached. He was incredibly sleepy, even though he'd gotten well over nine hours of sleep.

After a few minutes, he crawls out of bed, heading to the bathroom. Shower, meds, then cereal for breakfast. It wasn't exciting, but it was routine. His stomach didn't much like the day though. It was his last concert with JetStream.

Fingering the phone he'd picked up the day before, he finds Alice's number and dials. "Alice, it's Kyle. Concert tonight. It's at seven down at the plaza. If you want to come early, it's fine, just come in the back."

Look Out

Katie watches Carson and than turns back to Ryder again. Just listing to them both.

"But...Carson what if he IS being held aganst his will cant we at least check it out some how? We can't leave Ryder in the dust not when he has helped us this much."

Knowing her pleeding would get her no where Katie feels so helpless. She wanted to help Ryder, she new how hard it had to be, to have your own family member left alive and know there was nothing you could do.

Letting out her own sigh Katie goes over to the swing and sinks down next to Ryder on it. There really was nothing she could do.

"I'm sorry."

Staying silent for a moment Katie just lets her own thoughts run, thinking about many differnt things. Till finally she stratens and looks to Ryder keeping her voice low.

"Your brothers name was Brian right? Tell me what he look like and...I'll keep my eye out. Thats not saying I am making a promise to get him out, or put my team in danger but I'll keep it in mind and if it looks like there is a chanse that maybe he is on ourside or is there aganst his will...I wont leave him. You have my promise!"

The look in Katie's eyes shows she ment what she said and though she really wouldent put the other two in danger she was willing to at least make an effort to see if there was hope for Ryder's brother.

Not worth it

Hope glimmers in Ryder's eyes. "Really? You don't know what this means to me. I mean... I'm here for you guys, but... if we can get Brian too..."

The crooked smile returns. "Thanks, Katie. Even if we can't do it, I appreciate your willingness to help." He pauses, then nods his head at her question. "The Agency keeps anyone they can in their clutches for as long as their prisoners can last. I'm sure you know this. They kill parents, grab the kids and make them their slaves."

Suddenly, a shadow appears in the doorway, and Carson leans against the frame casually, looking through the screen at Katie and Ryder. Getting a surprised look from Ryder, Carson shakes his head, speaking very casually. "I didn't mean to interrupt. Please, keep going. I was just waiting for you to tell Katie why TJY hadn't supported a rescue mission."

Something flashes in Ryder's eyes and he takes a step back. "What? I mean... that's what happened with your friend Scott wasn't it? TJY just didn't want the risk."

"TJY didn't have proof Scott was alive," Carson counters. "That was the gamble they didn't approve of. You, on the other hand, are positive that your broother is in there. Why won't TJY help you?"

"I don't know," Ryder answers a tad spitefully. "They've never given me a reason."

Carson sees Ryder's eyes move to the side, then back again. He opens the screen door and slips out onto the porch, taking a stance next to Katie. "You're lying," he accuses calmly. "TJY always gives reasons, whether we like them or not." He studies Ryder's face that had started to pale. "Your brother is an agent, isn't he?"

Ryder grits his teeth, the muscles in his jaw tightening.

Carson shakes his head. "Sorry, mate, but we'll take this mission from here. I know the territory well enough myself. I'm not going to jeapordize it, running after someone who doesn't relaly want out." He turns, heading back inside.

"No, wait!" Ryder steps forward again, his eyes wide and pleading. "If we can just get him out, he'll want to stay out, I know he will! Look at you!"

"I didn't want to stay out," Carson informs. "I only wanted to save my hide. I would have double-crossed TJY in a heartbeat, just to get my Agency status back. Your brother obviously hasn't attempted to escape or get out, or even help TJY from the inside. That proves to me that he not only doesn't want to leave, but he's certainly not worth risking the four of us and the stability of TJY." He turns around again, going all the way inside.

"But he's my brother!" Ryder shouts. "I don't care if he's on the wrong side! He'll change, I know it!" Seeing that Carson was no longer listening, Ryder throws his arms up in the air, then goes to flop back down in the swing, putting his face in his hands. It always went like this.

Agree

Feeling a bit of color that had come to her face Katie drops her arm from Ryder's arm. Listening to what he has to say Katie can feel an ack as she thinks about Scott.

"It wasnt to long ago we had a friend in the hands of the Agency. We stopped at nothing to get him.."

Katie think for a long moment continplating and wondering if it could be done.

"I'll talk to the others Ryder. Its worth a try to get your brother out."

Katie gives a smile and a knowing nod.

"I think the only one that might not go long with it is Carson, but maybe if we are lucky we can get him to agree, but I cant help myself in asking why was your brother there? Is he being held like you were?"

Melt

Ryder doesn't move when Katie touches his arm, but stays where he is, evidence of him feeling torn between two choices.

"You're not playing fair," he teases quietly. "You should know better than to look at me like that. Or didn't you know that your eyes can make a bloke's heart melt?"

He shakes his head a little, daring to reach out and touch the side of Katie's face. "You really want to help... you really do see more than others do, willing to make sacrifices, despite the risks. It's been a long time since I've seen that in someone."

Realizing he might have just overstepped his bounds, he drops his hand and backs up a step. He swallows hard, then finally shrugs, signaling his defeat. "It's my brother. He's in there at the Agency base. It's been five years. I got out, he didn't. All I want is one chance to get him out... one chance to save him from the Agency's torture. Two months ago I got word he was still there and still alive. But my hands have been tied."

Trust

Walking a little closer to Ryder Katie puts an out streches hand on his arm very gently. Keeping her voice soft Katie reply.

"Ryder, what is it? Please if we can help you along with ourself..."

Katie did want to help Ryder now, the look in his eyes proved a longing one that made Katie's own heart ack.

"We've all broken rules before, what it is..what is this other mission?"

Keeping her hand on Ryder's arm Katie looks up at him her big green eyes looking back at him.

"You want me to trust you, than please trust me too."

Mission

Jason's eyes fly open, woken from his dozing state by Katie's message.

Alright... keep cool. Let me know if you need us.

He rolls off the couch and wanders casually into the kitchen where Carson still was, and keeps his voice quiet. "Katie's talking to Ryder. She says he's hiding something."

Carson nods, his eyes staying on the blueprints in front of him. "Yeah."

"Guess we all figured something was weird."

"Yeah."

Jason rolls his eyes. "And this doesn't worry you?"

Carson finally looks up, giving Jason an expression of annoyance. "What, you think Katie can't handle him?"

"No, that's not it. I meant about this whole thing."

"Oh. Not really. We'll get our job done no matter what. He's with TJY - that much I'm sure of. Whatever he's hiding will either get him in trouble, or just be something we ignore or conquer. We're getting what we came for - that much I'm sure of."


Ryder bristles just a little bit, though Katie's soft tone keeps him from becoming upset with her probing. "I understand not trusting me, but I wish you did."

Unable to stay in his vulnerable, position, he finally rights himself to stand up, forcing Katie to her feet as well as he swings his legs down. Padding in his bare feet to the porch railing, he looks out into the dark, just able to make out the trees by the light of the moon.

"Five years," he comments quietly. "Five years I've been trying to find a way in. When Reese said you guys were coming, I jumped on it because your team is the ticket I need. I couldn't do it by myself... but with a team..."

A sad sort of smile surfaces again and he turns around to look at Katie once more. "See, my own personal plans aren't in alignment with those of TJY, so I've had to ignore them for years. But now... with you three..."

A laugh escapes. "But you're all pretty dedicated to sticking with rules and regulations, so who am I fooling?"

The soberness returns, and Ryder wanders close enough to Katie to look down into her eyes. "Or would you risk your mission for another?" He shakes his head. "No... you're here for your friend, Angel. And now I see that I can't let my personal feelings or plans get in the way. So I won't interfere. I won't add to the load of this mission."

Promise

Sqinting her eyes just a little Katie trys to see past what was really there in front of her. It almost felt like Ryder was scaired of something or really being left.

"I've learned not to trust people that I dont know Ryder. I might be kind and I might be nice but I have see far to many bad things happen to good people in the cold world."

Katie thinks for a moment chooseing her words wisly, Katie opens a bit of her emotions sending a message to Jason.

He's hidding something and he is scaired if he tells us we will leave him. Dont you guys come out here guns blazing I am gonna see if I can get him to tell me. I just wanted you to be awair.

"If your honest and upfront with you Ryder we would have no reason to leave you in the dust. Thats just not us, but if you hide things it makes you look bad. I can promise you I will not leave you as long as I know what your hidding."

Katie eyes scan Ryders as her pearcing stair looks deep into them, searching, searching for what was going untold.

Whose side

"You're very dedicated to your work." There was genuine admiration in Ryder's voice, for the bold words Katie spoke.

But when she questions him, he hesitates again. Forcing a smile to the surface though, he squints at her. "And why do you still not trust me?" But guilt laid behind his eyes and he knew it. He wanted to get up and walk away, but with Katie still sitting in front of him, he didn't have an easy route of escape.

Finally, he purses his lips, becoming a little more sober. "Look, Katie... this is bigger than just you guys coming here for your antidote. This is a chance for me, and I don't want to blow it. If I told your blokes what was going on though, they'd leave me in the dust, and I can't risk that. Now you can go tell them I'm hiding something, or you can trust me that I'm here to help and leave it at that."

While his gaze asked for understanding, and tried to convince Katie that he was a friend, there was still evidence of a hidden agenda... hidden plans... whose side was he really on?

Memories

Listening to Ryder his story was alot of Carson with its minor differnces but both storys end on the good page of coming to TJY. Though there was a bit of sadness behind Ryder's on the matter there was a certin hope as well.

"My Mom and baby brother were killed by the Agency. I only got to see him once and even though I was small its the only memorie I have of him. I havent visited those memories in a while."

Katie is silent for a moment it was obvies that there was some pain attached to work words and behind her eyes on the memories. So many things when hand and hand with that event that it was hard to just think of the good.

But as fast as the smile faded another one made itself know though Katie for a moment picked up on Ryders hesatance and change of subjest.

"Thank you for the comment but beautiful or not I would follow my team to the death. This is my job and I know the dangers when I started out. I mean I can be in danger walking out my front door too I am a Pent. I goes with the family name, so like my family I want to do something to maybe make a better future."

Stopping for a moment Katie finally turns her whole body to Ryder a bit of worry, and maybe a bit of her strongness she had shown with him earlyer showing.

"Ryder, is there something your not telling us? We need to know as much as we can and if you know something we dont...."

Unspoken

Ryder listens to Katie, his stare a pensive one as he takes in who this woman was. At her question, he shakes his head. "I wound up with TJY because I needed help."

Sighing, his eyes drift to the darkness. He didn't normally talk about this. But it seemed easy with Katie. "My family was randomly selected by Medridge when I was just a kid. I saw my parents murdered, and I was taken in by the Agency to channel my vengeance." He glances back to the screen door. "My story is probably similar to Carson's. But I never did conform. I was trapped, forced against my will to take the wrong side. Until finally there was one mission where TJY was on to us and I ran. Reese asked me to join them and I couldn't refuse. So... here I am."

A grin surfaces again. "I give tours to city-slicker vacationers half the time, and the other half, I'm working for TJY."

Ryder looks down for a moment, his thumbnail working at a bit of dried-out paint on the swing. "When we go in to find the antidote, there's..."

His voice trails off as if he's changed his mind about what it was he was going to say. He catches Katie's eye again, watching her. "You realize you're too beautiful to risk getting hurt out here, don't you?"

Hit home

Giving a soft smile Katie is quiet for a moment thinking about something else to say.

"Mmmm...I like working for TJY. I've meet alot of nice people and I like the thrill of a case. My title is Bodyguard and thats my passion but I do a little bit of everything."

Leaning forward again Katie leans her arms on her legs as she gently pushs the swing.

"I guess its always a little hard on a case though when it hits so close to home. I've known Angle for a long time now. Since I came to my Aunts ranch Angle has always been there. From what I am told she has been with my Aunt and her friends for years before I was even born. She's been through alot and has beaten the Agency so many times. She dosnt deserve to die like this."

Katie gives a small shake of her head before a smile forms on her face again.

"So...How did you come to be part of TJY?"

Katie rests her head on her hand but turn to look at Ryder her eyes giving a sparkle.

Keep talking

Having Katie lean on him Ryder shifts just a little, but doesn't mind it at all. Stretching his arms back behind his head, he takes a deep breath, letting it out slowly.

"We all want to do something good before we die, I think. Almost as if we're born with that desire. Just don't ever let this job kill that fire of yours. 'Cause it can, and easily."

Ryder's own eyes take on a different light, not quite sadness, but not happiness either. "I know what the wrong side feels like too. Every day feels like once more chance to try and make up for it, somehow." He wanted to say more. Something else was on the tip of his tongue. Something about this case. Something about what he was doing here. But it remains unspoken.

Looking back to Katie's face, his smile returns. "I haven't had a woman as pretty as you talk to me in a long time. Keep talking... I like the sound of your voice."

Not always

Sitting down on the swing Katie cant help but give a small laugh. Leaning back a little on Ryder Katie props up her elbow on his leg not thinking of it. Turning to look at him she gives a small smile just looking for a moment taking in his deep blue eyes looking for the reason to her question.

Looking away again Katie thinks before speaking.

"I only told Jason that I would rather die knowing I did something, than die knowing I did nothing."

Turning a little Katie looks at Ryder a soft smile on her lips. She wasnt sure why she was telling him this. Maybe it was because he was a stranger.

"I wasnt always the best person to know. I guess not only do I enjoy doing this but its also my restribution."

Introduction

Ryder has one leg stretched out across the swing and is leaning back against the armrest, just listening to the sounds of the evening.

Seeing Katie come out, he just watches her quietly, not even sure if she realized he was there. She was different from the other TJY agents he knew. She didn't have the same hardness to her. It was obvious that she would viciously defend those she cared about, but behind her eyes... there was a softness that hadn't been destroyed by life. Cocking his head, Ryder just watches, not saying anything.

As she speaks, a grin creeps across his lips. He knew exactly what she meant. He'd spent a lot of years in the city. And though this little hideaway was meant for TJY business, and things sometimes were dangerous or stressful... it had always felt like just a little slice of heaven, once the sun set.

Having Katie turn to him, he looks up at her, not suspiciously, but simply trying to figure out her motives perhaps. And receiving her gesture to start over, it takes him just a moment. But his smile proves he isn't going to say no.

Ryder stretches out his hand to shake Katie's, his grip a little softer than earlier. "Truce, ya dang sheila." Giving a short chuckle, he doesn't let go, but instead, pulls her closer, just fast enough so that she's forced to sit down on the swing with him.

Still halfway lying down, he looks up at her and shakes his head. "Nice to meet you, Katie. I'm Ryder." He pauses, the moon bouncing off his blue eyes. "I've been wrapped up in this thing for years with more pain and sorrow to start me out than anything. But you... you seem the type to have chosen this kind of life. Why?"

Try again

Finishing up the dishes Katie whipes her hands off on the towel and turns looking around the room for a moment. Seeing Carson looking over the blueprints Katie figures later or tomarrow she would look at them herself. Going to the counter she pours herself a cup of tea.

Seeing Jason on the couch she makes her way over to him standing at his head. Running her free hand through his hair for a moment she bends down to give him a kiss.

"I am gonna get some fresh air."

Heading out onto the back pourch Katie leans agains the railing taking a sip of her tea and looking out into the night sky. Watching the fire flys dart back and forth and listing to the night sounds. For a moment it would seem like Katie didnt even notice Ryder was there, but she did.

"Its nice being out here in the quiet again. I never really apresheated the quiet, just sitting and listing to the night sounds untill I moved into nevada and I didnt have anymore. Its nice to get just a peace of that again in the casos. "

Drawing silent for a moment takes takes another sip of her tea again before still leaning on the railing turns to Ryder.

"Listen I am sorry to earlyer. I'm not normaly that forward, but when it comes to my team I take there safty searouse. So I am sorry if I was a bit pushy. Lets try this again no hard feelings."

Taking a few steps twords Ryder Katie told out her hand as the moonlight shines in the background giving her a soft glow.

"Hi, I'm Katie."

Unspoken

Ryder takes Katie's warning, absorbing it without flinching. His eyes roam hers. "I don't like crossing anybody, let alone a spitfire like you. There's an awful lot of "me" and "I" in there though. I get the feeling you've got more at stake here than these two blokes."

"She's close to the victim," Jason intervenes. "But don't think we don't feel just as strongly about not being crossed."

"If I'd wanted to cross you, I would have killed you a minute ago." Ryder turns a chair around to straddle it, and sits back down. "Either we call a truce or you all can walk. Up to you."

Before any more can be said, Carson raises his hands. "Look, guys. Let's do what we came here for, huh? Ryder, we didn't trust you, but we'll try. You didn't trust up, but hopefully we proved we're on the right side here. It's done. Now let's move on with plans, or we're never going to get what we came here for."

"Thank you." Ryder nods. "So you're here to find an antidote. And you're assuming it's in the lab of the Agency base here."

"Right."

"Then let me explain a few things..." Ryder proceeds to tell the three that he had an inside contact at the Agency who had been feeding him information for over a year, that he'd been sharing with TJY. He had never ventured close to the facility, scared of blowing his cover, or his contact's cover. He knew where the lab was because of his contact, and he knew the daily routines of workers there, by observing with binoculars from a safe distance. He knew where the lab was located through blueprints that had been smuggled to him, and he knew the different levels of security.

By the time he finishes telling them all of that, the afternoon has wore on. "But... the problem is, that the last two days, there's been a lot of traffic. The authorities have been down there, checking things out after a disturbance call of some sort. I haven't been able to dig deep enough to know what's going on. But it might take a couple days to get close enough to get in."

"We don't have that much time," Jason argues.

"Then you'll wind up inside as a prisoner." Ryder purses his lips grimly. "It's just that simple."

"But..."

"Jase," Carson interrupts. "He's right. Better to risk taking longer and do this right, than storming the castle when we're so outnumbered. We need to come up with a way to get in under their noses... under their radar. The only thin we can do is pray that Angel will last until we can get back to her."

Bags are unpacked and dibs are called on the beds or the couch for the night. They would all bed down early, for it would be a very early start in the day. Ryder wanted to set out on foot while it was still dark to reach a good vantage point where they could observe the Agency's movements.

The sun is sinking low on the horizon, and insects can be heard, bringing the night in. Jason stretches out on the living room couch and stares up at the ceiling, exhausted, but far from sleep. Carson sits in the kitchen at the table, going over the base blueprints. And Ryder sits on the back porch swing, looking out into the darkness. He had grown quiet after their late supper, seeming to have a lot on his mind, though he had not shared. While nerves had settled along with distrusting tension, something had still gone unspoken.

Doublecross

Bringing a pen to her lips Jess acts as thought she is thinking as a grin forms on her lips.

"Noon at Mom and Pop's...I think I can pencil you in. I shall see you than."

Taking the package Jess places it on the desk and gives a small laugh before sitting down and continuing her work.

Continuing to listen to Ryder Katie cant help but brisle as he evades her question. She didnt like how this felt at all.

Glancing at Carson for a moment as he starts in with his own questions Katie becomes more uneasy but trys to controll her own emotions to not make anyone go haywire.

"Dodging questions, and answering questions with questions is not a good way to make someone trust you, you know."

As Carson makes his quick movment twords Ryder and there little tiff goes on Katie is out of her own chair ready to take action if needed. Seeing Ryder back up and noticing the shotgun in the courner Katie goes for her own gun but it to late before the shotgun is pointed at them. Backing up a few steps and looking at Jason and than Ryder again with a bit of confustion but as the shotgun is finally lowered Katie relaxed just a little.

Watching Ryders every movment and listening to ever word Katie feels a bit better around him but not completely. Knowing for now though that she had to trust him she sits back down.

"Nope no more questions for now, but I will be keeping my eye on you. Carson I trust even if he was with the Angecy I have seen his good side. You...I dont know you worth a lick, tred lightly and gain my trust and we might pull this off."

Leaning back just a little bit in her chair Katie continues.

"DON'T double cross me though, I dont take kindly to that not when someone who is close to me life is on the line. For now, you have a bit of my trust."

Katie can't help the grin that formed on her face though there was turth behind her eyes.

Fight

Rocky can't help his grin. "Oh, alright. If Jem Ferchin doesn't want to show herself, then I guess I can take you to lunch instead."

Watching Jess sign her name more slowly, he chuckles. "Well, I'll be. You are Jess Fisher! Then I'd be delighted to meet you for lunch at noon at..." He pauses and thinks. "Mom and Pops is good with me."


Listening to Carson and Ryder, Jason too, feels something a little off kilter.

Yeah, not sure quite what it is yet. I just don't feel like spilling too much information in front of him right now.

Receiving Katie's question, Ryder looks to her quickly. And for a moment, he just studies her, his eyes narrowing slightly. "Ya know... you're an interesting team. Carson asks me questions he expects me to know, yet you question my knowledge when I've answered him."
He lifts an eyebrow and glances back to Carson. "Is it you she doesn't trust, or me?"

Carson grins a little. "Maybe both. But I wouldn't leave her in the dark unless you want to get on her bad side."

Ryder's mouth curls up at the corners, and he stands up to clear some of the paper plates off the table. "How does anybody know anything with security so tight? You think I'm with TJY without knowing anything about this area and what's happening?"

Jason bristles just a little. "You still haven't answered Katie's question."

Ryder turns from the sink. "I hear an implication in your tone."

"Maybe."

Carson looks back and forth between the men, analyzing the situation. So far he'd played things pretty cool, acting as though he trusted Ryder and who he was supposed to be. But he hadn't given away any information, also feeling the same way Katie had. He just hadn't gotten around to asking pointed questions yet - she'd beat him to it.

Ryder shakes his head. "Look, I don't know what Reese told you you'd find here, but I'm it. Either you trust me, or you're on your own, and I wouldn't recommend that."

Now it's Carson's turn to bristle. He gives Katie a glance, letting her know that he agreed with her questioning tone. "If you don't have anything to hide, then why won't you answer us about security? Do you have computers? Blueprints? An inside contact? What?"

"I've got eyes out there. I see the comings and goings for long enough to figure these things out."

"So you don't have actual proof of where the lab is."

"I didn't say that." Ryder moves closer to the table again. "I know what there is, and I'm here to get you in and out again."

Jason narrows his gaze. "I hope it's true about the getting out part."

Ryder throws up his arms. "What do you want? Confirmation from Reese?" He grabs a phone and picks it up. "Your call or mine."

Carson leans back in his chair, just watching. "Ryder, you haven't even checked us out. That seems pretty sloppy in itself. Then you expect to follow you blind? Allys don't normally expect to be trusted right off the bat."

"Look, what is this?" Ryder looks between all three. "I'm trying to help you out, and you're starting an interrogation process." He shakes his head and moves back to the table. "I suggest we get down to business and..."

He can't even finish his sentence. Carson is so quick to get up that his chair falls over. He moves with speed, going to pin Ryder's arm behind his back, but the other Australian is quicker, sidestepping the motion and coming back with a quick sweep to Carson's legs. Carson counters and goes for a jab to the mouth, but Ryder ducks, his own fist going for Carson's ribs. Carson sidesteps and finally gets an opening to put Ryder in a choke hold. "That's Agency routine," he hisses into Ryder's ear. "I know those moves because they were drilled into my head. The pattern is the same. Now you better start talking about who you really are unless you want a broken neck."

Ryder struggles under Carson's grip, and gasps for air. In a move of despiration, he drops to one knee, throwing Carson over his shoulders and onto the floor. Seeing Jason move, Ryder backs up, and in less than a second, he's got a sawed-off shotgun cocked aimed at the group. Breathing heavily, he looks at all three. "Jason, who first called you Hotshot?"

"What?" Jason's anger starts to rise and he tries to contain it for now.

"Who first called you Hotshot?" Ryder repeats, raising his voice. "Tell me, or so help me, I'll blow your head off."

"It was Laura!" Jason holds up his hands. "What does that have to do with..." His sentence trails off as he sees Ryder lower the shotgun.

Carson finally gets up off the floor. "What in blazes is going on?"

Ryder lets out the breath he'd been holding, and uncocks the gun. "You guys really know how to push the limits, don't you?" He shakes his head. "I thought I might never find out if you were for real or not."

Carson looks at Katie, then Jason, then back to Ryder. "Are you crazy?"

"For being here? Yes. Look, I'm sorry. But I had to make sure you guys weren't from the other side. Internet has been down for two days. Reese couldn't get me the specs and I didn't know what any of you looked like. You think you've been walking blind, so have I. Reese told me about the nickname, so that was my only source of making sure you all were the right people."

Carson lifts his eyebrows, bewildered. "Well now that you believe we're from TJY, what about you? I spent a year in training at the Agency to learn those moves."

Ryder shakes his head and puts the shotgun back in the corner by the cubboards. "I spent a year in training too."

"So you are with the Agency." Jason is so confused, that his anger disperses.

"No." Ryder looks down, his tone growing quiet. "But I was." An awkward pause follows, and he drops whatever story there might be about the past. "It was a long time ago. And now I'm on your side. I know about the place here because I have an inside contact. I wasn't going to just blurt that out in case you were from the Agency, come to feel me out. I don't have all the equipment and technoligy out here like you do back in the States. No security measures, other than my own brain."

Carson takes a deep breath, letting it out slowly as he folds his arm across his chest. "Alright. So... are we all clear on this then. Are we going to trust each other or what?"

"I will if you do." Ryder nods to Katie. "Sorry. You were right to question me. I just didn't know if I could answer you yet or not." He glances to Carson and Jason again. "I was telling the truth when I said we had to sit a day or two. If you're willing to listen, I'll tell you more about it. If you think you need to call Reese still, go ahead, but the phone lines aren't secure. You were followed by a TJY agent all the way here, and he's the only reason I knew who you were supposed to be at the airport. Now... are we trusting each other?" He looks to Katie, seeming to sense that she might be the hardest to convince. "Please believe me. I'll answer any questions you have."

How?

Looking up from her desk a smile spreads across her face as she see Rocky. As her lips curl a little more, a more sassy grin makes itself known.

"Listen here, I let it slide the first time but now I cant take it. There is no Jem Ferchin here only me, butttt....I am more than willing to give you my sig and go to lunch with a rock star."

Taking the package Jess slowly down her writting a little so you can clearly see what her name was.

"Time and place and I will be there."

Listing to everything Ryder was saying Katie picks up on the small details here and there relizing he was skimming over a few things about himself.

I wonder, maybe when we can we should bring it to Carson's attachen.

Within no time they are to the cabin and Katie gets out. Taking a glance around she smiles. She loved being in the country.

"Mmmmm..to me this is heaven not roughing it. It reminds me of home minus the horses."

Grabbing her bag Katie follows the other inside. Claming witch room was hers she thorws her bags onto the bed and takes a few things out that she would including making sure her gun was in her holster and on her. Making her way back downstairs she slids onto one of the stools next to Jason for lunch.

Continuing to listen once again Katie has a peek of caution as Ryder rambles off much information about The Agency's set up. It was off to her and she couldnt help but ask.

"Ryder I dont mean to be rude and all but how is it that you know so much about The Agencys building if the sacurity is so tight?"

Taking her sip of water Katie just watchs Ryder waiting for his reply.

South side

"Suite yourself." Ryder holds the door open for Katie. "Watch the seatbelt - it likes to catch."

Carson winds up in the backseat with Katie, letting Jason take the passenger seat beside Ryder.

Once out of the heavy traffic around the airport, Ryder tilts his hat back on his head and drives at a relaxed speed. He glances at Katie in the rearview mirror. "We got about two hours."

Carson stares out his window, surprisingly quiet. The scenery looked so familiar, yet so foreign. It hadn't been all that long since he'd been to Australia. But it had been a blur, living in a fog while thinking Misty was dead. He didn't really consider that time at all, part of when he spent here. No... what he remembered was years before that, when this was his life... when he'd called this territory his home.

Ryder breaks the silence. "We're going to be roughing it for a couple days. There's been a bit of activity around the location we're going to be heading to, so laying low is the best option at this point." His tone has become a little more sober as he gets down to business. "I work for a private tourist agency on a regular basis. This keeps my income up and is the perfect cover, while I work for TJY on the side. That's why it's worked so well for me to pick you guys up. We'll be staying at a cabin where we've had folks before who want to get a taste of Australia, but not so much as sleeping under the stars."

He chuckles. "We've had some doozies. I'm just glad to get some people here who have a purpose other than to gawk. Reese said he was sending the best."

The drive takes about as long as Ryder had said it would, and by the time the foursome reaches the cabin, stomaches are growling. They seemed to be out in the middle of nowhere. They'd driven half an hour on a dirt road to get here, and there were no other buildings in sight. Just trees and wildlife.

Parking near the cabin, Ryder slides out. "Come on in, the place is empty. We'll scrounge up something to eat too. Later on we can discuss a gameplan, but trust me when I say we've got time at this point. It's too dangerous to make a move right now."

Getting inside, bags are put away and soon sandwiches and water are on the table. A small air conditioner made the indoor temperature and humidity bearable, though it was still warm.

"So..." Ryder takes a sip of water as they sit around the table. "Carson, you know where the base is then?"

"I could probably get there if I looked at a map first." Carson nods and swallows a bite of sandwich. "How'd you get tangled up in this?"

"Oh, I've been feeding TJY for a few years." Something in Ryder's tone had suddenly shifted, almost to make one wonder if he was telling all.

Jason picks up on it.

Interesting. I wonder what's up there. I hope he really is on our side.

"How's security?" Carson questions.

"Tight."

"And the lab?"

"It's on the south side now."

Far from home

Smiling Katie looks to Jason and than back to Ryder giving a small grin as his comment and how much it reminded her of how Carson talked to Misty. Katie couldnt help but wonder what it was like for Carson to be back home.

"I think I'll hop in the back this time let one of the boys sit shotgun, but if your lucky maybe next time I will sit up front."

Getting into the backseat Katie throws a smile to Ryder. Within seconds the truck jolts forward. Staring out the window Katie cant help but keep her smile held. They were here with a mission but to Katie this was still amazing. She was so far from home and it was an amazing feeling. Something new, and the sites everything looked so pretty.

"So Ryder how long will it take us to get to our destination?"

Bloodhound

Jason smiles inwardly.

We're all keeping our eyes peeled, Hero. Keep it up. We may be the elite, but we all need extra eyes, even if we think the coast is clear.

Ryder leads the threesome outside where the sun has by now risen and has started to cast a heat over the city. Heading toward the parking lot, Ryder turns his head to see Katie as he hears her questions.

"Always lived here? Pretty much. Just as few, ah, shall we say, "business trips" have taken me to the States a couple times." He winks at Katie, signaling that those trips were probably related to TJY.

"As for great sights around here, that all depends on what you're looking for. City attractions? Got those. Life out in the peace and quiet? Got that too. But I think Carson could probably tell you about must of that."

Carson adjusts his backpack as he walks. "Been a couple years."

"Not much has changed, mate. Few more buildings... few more people. But it's the same." Reaching an old pickup, he lets the bags be put in the bed under a tarp. "As for secrets, they still exist too. Maybe harder to find. But they don't know about the bloodhounds like me."

Opening the door, he waves inside. "Alright. Hop in. Got your spots picked, or do I get the pretty sheila up front with me?"

Bodyguard

Rolling her eyes as Jason and Carson banter Katie shifts herself to look out the window. Watching the building and lights come into view Katie cant help but looks in aw. It worked that she was in aw after all they were "on vacation."

Finally landing and getting off the plane Katie holds tight to Jason's hand. The airport was packed and it was hard to move. It was easy to lose someone in this mess. Grabbing her bage she slings it over her should still glancing around at all the people. It wasnt her job to be a bodyguard on this mission but Katie couldnt help her instincts anyways as she took everything in and protected the two guys anyways.

Turning to see the guy coming twords them Katie holds out her own and gives her greeting to him giving one of her shinning smiles.

"Nice to meet you Ryder."

Starting to follow after him Katie knows not to talk about the case but keep it casule. Outside where anyone could be watching that was the best to do.

"So Ryder, have you always lived here in Austraila and can you sugest any good places for use to see?"

He seems ok to me. I am not here as your bodyguard but I cant help it anyways.

Hot one

Seeing Nate approach her cubicle, Laura tenses just a little. She knew she'd hurt his feelings, and she just felt horrible. Would he be upset with her?

The thought had been a silly one. Seeing the coffee and then the rose, Laura feels a part of her melt all over again. Looking at them, her gaze falls downward and she feels the kiss to her head. Looking up as Nate walks away, she just watches him as he goes to his own desk. She puts the rose to her face to feel the soft petals and smell the rich scent. "Oh, Nate," she whispers. "What am I supposed to do with you?"

Turning around, she gives a little sigh, but a slight smile is at the corner of her mouth. She still felt in limbo... but knowing he was willing to wait for an answer made it just a bit more bearable.


Kyle's shoulders drop. "You mean he won't be at the concert tomorrow night?"

"No. He and Katie are both on a case."

Kyle sighs and leans back against the wall, standing behind the keyboard in Mike's basement. Another morning practice. Except today it was just the Mitts and Mike. "So now what?"

Phil shrugs. "Jase said to be sure you knew he wasn't mad at you, and it was up to us to decide what to do. Far as I'm concerned, you can sing lead like you have for us any other time he's been out."

"I don't think that's such a good idea."

"You sang lead the whole time Jason was in prison," Mike reminds.

Kyle rolls his eyes. "That was before I was the big bad wolf."

"Nobody says that," Jen chides. "You did a good job before. You've always been a good singer. Now we just know that you're even more than that. You're a great singer and we just didn't realize it. So why not use your talent for the concert? What's the big deal?"

Kyle sits back down at the keyboard, his eyes lowered. "I'll have Cryptic the next night. That's too much."

Phil frowns. "So you'd choose them over us?"

"That's not it! Why don't you sing? You've got a voice."

Phil smirks. "Yeah. I know I can sing. And I'm fair. A month ago, I woulda said I was as good as you, so who cared who sang. But now I know that you're the one with the real vocal talent here. You want me to sing, I will, but the audience would rather have you."

"Great." Kyle runs a finger over the keys in front of him. "Everything is on my shoulders then."

Phil sighs. "Look, fine. If you don't want to be a part of the team and fill in while Jason's gone, so be it. But I thought that's what we were - a team."

"Alright, I'll do it." Kyle looks up at his brother. "But it's my last night."

Jen's eyes widen. "What do you mean?"

"I... I'm quitting the band."

Mike and Phil join in the shocked expressions. Phil blinks. "You're what?"

"Quitting." Kyle crosses his arms. "This is my last concert with JetStream, and the one with Cryptic is my last with them too."

"But, Kyle," Jen begs, "Why? This isn't anything we can't work through."

"Kinda hard to be in a band when I'm not here anymore." Kyle shakes his head tiredly. "Look, I've been invited to join Break Out and I'm going to. We pull out next week."

Tears fill Jen's eyes. "You're going to leave? For how long?"

Kyle shrugs. "The tour lasts a year. After that, who knows."

"So this is it." Phil was still stunned. "What... what happens to JetStream?"

"You can survive without me." Kyle rolls his eyes. "I don't add all that much anyway. You got Jason - he's what the crowd likes. You can be backup vocals, and if you really want a keyboardist, hit Rocky up. But... I've made up my mind."

Mike swallows hard. "So... you're not joining Cryptic then either."

"No. I have yet to tell them that."

"What will they do?"

Kyle shrugs. "I don't know. I don't think Rocky wants to sing lead. They might have Taylor sing for a while - it would be a different feel. Logan wants to but can't. Axel doesn't want to. Max can't sing all that well, and Joel isn't cut out for it. So... I don't know."

Phil looks down for a minute. "Guess you're a pretty big piece to both these bands, huh?"

Kyle doesn't answer him. Instead, he grabs some sheets of music. "If I'm singing tomorrow night, I need to figure out what songs we'll be doing. What should the lineup be?"


The delivery man opens the glass door and slips inside, scanning the package in his hand. Approaching the front desk, he purses his lips and nods. "I got something for Jem Ferchin." Rocky glances to Jess, humor in his eye. "She doesn't happen to be free for a signature and lunch, does she?"


Jason grins and brings Katie's hand to his lips to kiss it lightly. A kick to the seat makes him turn around and look at Carson in question. Carson just quirks an eyebrow at him, his eyes glinting with mischief. "Settle down up there, Hotshot."

Jason smirks and rolls his eyes, looking to Katie. "As if he's one to talk."

Carson laughs and settles back in his seat, pulling his ballcap down over his eyes. "Alright, now you can go ahead. I'm not watching."

Jason grins and leans over to give Katie a kiss on the lips.

If only he knew we were breaking the rule about not letting him hear everything that was said.

"Hey," Carson growls. "Shut up."

Jason withdraws from Katie, laughing. "Quit eavesdropping."

"I'm not." Carson keeps his eyes hidden beneath the brim of his hat. "If I was, I'd probably haul off and kick your seat again. But I'm being nice and not listening."

"Idiot."

"Hothead."

"Grouch."

"Numskull."

Jason opens his mouth to throw out another name, but a sudden jolt to the plane cuts him off as they run into turbulence.

Carson lifts his head to look around. "Well now. This is going to be fun..."


...The airport is a mass of moving bodies, all heading their own directions all at once. People talking everywhere. Intercom announcements. The sounds of planes taking off and landing.

Jason keeps a firm grip on Katie's hand, making sure he didn't lose her in the crowd. It fit - the three of them were supposed to be roommates on vacation. He looks to Carson, who nods toward the side where they could go downstairs and collect their bags.

Once retrieving their luggage, the three head toward the front of the airport. "So who are we looking for?" Jason asks.

"Don't know what he looks like," Carson admits. "But if he's any good, he'll find us."

As if on cue, a lanky blonde approaches them, looking out from under a straw cowboy hat. He holds out a hand to offer a handshake. "G'day, mate," he greets Carson. "You three look like you're just a little bit lost. How about a tour guide to get you going in the right direction?"

Carson grins and accepts the friendly gesture. "Ryder?"

"Carson?"

"And Jason and Katie," Carson introduces. "We're relying on you from here on out."

"No worries." Ryder smiles, his eyes shining. "Follow me. It's a hot one out here today."

Pink

In and out of sleep Katie trys her best to rest up. But with no luck much sleep at a time did not come. Katie's mind moves from one thing to the next so quickly. On the outside she looked calm and good excitment written on her face, but in ward was the constint though about what the trip was really about and the dangers.

Looking out the window and seeing the sun rise a small smile forms on Katie's lips. It was the same sun, that we there day after day. The same one everyone alse was looking at. The coming sun gave hope that everything would be ok.

Feelig Jason fingers in her own Katie tightens her own grip just alittle he smile forming on her face once again.

Good Morning!

Entering TJY Nate runs a hand through his wet hair. He was running later than he wanted to be today but it had been a restless night and now he was feeling it. The coffee in hand would serve its purpis well and the other along with the flower would as well.

Slowly walk to Laura's cubicle Nate gives a small tap on the wall to get her attachen. Handing her the extra coffee and the pretty pink rose Nate smile.

"Please dont feel strange around me now Laura. I love you just the same and for that fact I will give you all he time you need. I am in no hurry. Just let me know when ever you are ready."

Stepping closer to Laura Nate gives the top of her head a kiss before steping away and turning to leave.

Good morning

Con hangs up the phone a little wearily. He wished there was more he could do to help... but this was something he couldn't at all.

Wandering through the living room, he checks on Laura one more time, then heads upstairs. Crawling into bed next to Jamie, he wraps his arm around her to hold her close. He was glad that they'd found each other and had not questioned their love. He felt so blessed that Jamie had been willing to spend her life with him. He hoped his sister could find the same kind of happiness that he had.

Giving Jamie's cheek a kiss, he whispers in her ear. "I love you."


The ocean below was one big black expanse, yet to be lit by the morning sun. Stars dotted the sky, waiting for the hazy dawn.

Jason leans his head against the airplane's window, looking out into the great nothingness. He'd been able to sleep a little bit on the first leg of their journey, but as they headed for Australia, nerves had kept him awake.

Hearing the stirring behind him, he turns to see Carson awake in the seat behind him.

Carson catches his eye for a moment. No words needed to be said. Everyone knew at what stage they were, and what was happening. He glances up to Katie just to check on her. They were the only three people in the back corner of the plane, able to converse as freely as they dared, but remain quiet enough and not gain much attention. A chatterbox for a stewardess was the only annoyance they'd had thus far, having to lie through their teeth about going on vacation to Australia.

Jason's mind wanders, trying to find somewhere to land. He wanted to find something to talk about, other than the case right now. Then he remembers what he had yet to ask Carson about.

"Hey, Carson..."


...Carson lets out a low whistle as the information about Axel hits his ears. He and Jason had been speaking quietly for several minutes now, undisturbed and unheard by anyone else but Katie. “No… no he never told me about that.”

Jason gives a little cringe. “I thought maybe he had. I didn’t want to go spread this around or anything I just…”

“You just don’t want anybody getting hurt.” Carson nods. He understood, but while he himself knew that one couldn’t be judged by a stained past, not everybody would look at this that way. “I know. But now what?”

“That’s the hard part.” Jason sighs. “I know Cryptic doesn’t know about it, because Rocky has said that they never have known about Axel’s past. I don’t want to stir up trouble, but I do think people ought to know, especially when he’s around people like Taylor all the time. If I were her, even if I trusted Axel completely, I’d want to know about this.”

“Yeah…” Carson takes a sip of coke that the stewardess had brought him, grimacing a little as the carbonation goes down with difficulty. “Axel and I are pretty good friends, but even I don’t know how I’d talk to him about this.”

“Well… I guess I could do something more if you think I should.”


“No.” Carson shakes his head. “Let me take it from here. I know Axel better than you do, and I see the others all the time, too. I’ll… think of something.”

“Thanks.”

“No problem.”

Jason starts to turn back around in his seat, but then stops and looks back to Carson again. “Can I ask you something?”

“Yeah, sure.”

“What’s different about you?”

A grin spreads on Carson’s face. “I’ve been accepted and saved despite every despicable thing I’ve ever done. I’m loved despite my faults and despite my human nature. That’s enough to change a man, don’t you think?”

Jason furrows his brow a little, trying to figure out the angle.

Carson just looks him in the eye, holding his grin. “I may be a rebel and ruffian, but even I have a purpose, and even God can make something out of someone like me. Finding the purpose in my own passions and my own personality has impacted me more than anything else, Jason.”

“God, huh.” Jason is a bit skeptical, even though he’d been trying to figure it out himself for a while now. “And what’s the purpose in all that?”

“To be used not in spite of, but together with the personality I’ve been given. I’ve got a place somewhere. Maybe I haven’t quite found it yet, but I know now that I don’t have to change into something I’m not just to find it. I have a new heart. I have new intentions and a new perspective that keeps me from doing some stupid things I used to do. But I’m still me… and I can be me… somewhere.”

Jason gives a little laugh. “That’s not the Carson we brought down and held at TJY.”

Carson chuckles. “No, it’s not. My outlook has changed. And even that, God had to change for me… I couldn’t do it myself.”

Jason’s confusion persists, but he pushes it aside for now, unable to help a short quip. “Is that why we’re suddenly getting along?”

Carson’s laugh is genuine. “Takes two to get along, Jase.” He stretches out as far as the space between seats would allow, and stifles a yawn. “Guess maybe I’m not the only one rethinking things, eh?”

Jason is quiet, then finally ends the conversation by turning back around, his mind churning several directions. Interesting. Very… interesting.

A glow comes through the window, proving that the sun was rising, even this far from home. The ocean below became to shimmer, radiance sparkling off the water. It was a beautiful sight.

Reaching beside him, Jason curls his fingers around Katie's hand.

Good morning.


Laura slips into TJY and heads straight for her cubicle. She wasn't quite as put together this morning as usual. Having woken up at Con and Jamie's, it had been a rush to get home, then to work, and she was a few minutes late. Looked like she'd have to work a little more tonight to make up her time.

As she arrives at her desk, she keeps her eyes from wandering across the room over to where Nate's space was. The night hadn't solved anything, and the fear, confusion and hurt from the evening before still lingered. She wouldn't know what to say to Nate even if she were to speak with him.

Sitting down at her desk, Laura tries to start work for the day.

Ready

Heading down the hall and glancing into the living room Jamie spots Laura with Con. Giving him a knowing nod she heads for the bedroom. They had always said Laura could come anytime she wanted or needed someone and she would never change her mind about that. When Con was done he would be up.

Leaning back in his chair Nate stairs at the tv. Not really paying attachen enough to know what was playing but enough to keep his mind busy. Hearing his cell ring for a moment Nate hesitates to answer it. He really didnt feel like talking to anyone right now. But thinking better of it and that it might be an emergncy he pick it up.

"Hello?"

Hearing Con's voice on the other end Nate gives a sigh. The memories of the nights events coming back to him like they only happend moments ago.

"Hey Con its good to hear from ya....Yeah I dont plane on giving up not yet, just is hard is all. I know its 10x harder on Laura so I am gonna be as pashent as I can be."

Almost going to hang up the phone Nate stops knowing Con was still on the other end.

"Hey Con? Have a good night and Thanks!"

Hanging up the phone Nate lets out a sigh and goes for his jacket that way handing up. Taking the tiny ring box out of the pocket he just told it before turning and heading upstairs. Going into his room and to his dresser Nate opens the tiny jewlery case the was on the top and places the ring inside closing it and heading to bed. Tomarrow had to be a better day right? Checking on his sister one last time he places a soft kiss on her head before heading back into his own room and crawling into bed ready to leave this whole day behind him.