Emergency Meeting

Just the thought of going to get his dog, Scott relaxes a little bit. He hadn't seen Domino for several days, and missed her something awful.

He directs Hope to Katie and Laura's house, finding that at least he had something to talk about that way. Once there, he just has Hope pull up to the curb, and he gets out himself to get Domino. Walking quickly up the short sidewalk, he heads to the porch, then fishes in his pocket. Laura had given him a key just for this reason.

He hears his dog barking on the other side of the door, and a small grin surfaces. "Just me, Domino," he greets.

Without even seeing him, Domino's bark shifts to an anxious yip as she waits.

Scott fools with the key for a moment before finally getting inside, and he's met with an excited furball, jumping up and down on his legs, begging for his attention. A smile curls his lips and he bends down to pick her up, burying his face in her soft warmth. Receiving lots of slobbery kisses, he sets her back down and looks around for her leash. "Come on," he croons. "We're going for a walk."

Domino races to the other end of the living room where she digs through her mess of toys to reveal her leash. Picking it up in her mouth, she trots back to Scott, tripping once as she accidentally steps on the leash as she goes.

Scott shakes his head in amusement. "Guess you're feeling cooped up too, aren't you?" Getting her clipped onto the leash, he jots a quick note to Laura in case she came back over lunch, then leaves again, locking the door behind him.

Domino trots obediently at her master's heel, her ears perked, alert to every sight and sound. Getting to the car, she hesitates, sniffing warily. Scott gets inside and sits, looking back out at his dog. "Well come on. I told Hope you liked car rides."

Domino cocks her head to look around Scott at the stranger. She comes closer slowly, then decides it must be safe if Scott is there. Hunkering down, she springs up to jump into Scott's lap for the ride.

Scott shuts the door and buckles himself in, already feeling better with the new company. "Domino, Hope... Hope, Domino."

The little dog sniffs in Hope's direction, giving a little woof.

Scott pats her on the back. "She's alright," he assures. "It's her car we're in after all. You should be nice to her."

Domino responds by cautiously stepping forward and stretching her neck out to sniff Hope's hand, then lick her fingers. Then, as if the introduction was over, she turns around, makes one circle, then sits in Scott's lap, facing the windshield. She was ready.

Scott rolls his eyes. "Are you quite ready?"

Domino woofs softly, paying great attention to the road ahead as if she were in control of the moving vehicle.

Though the ride is quiet, Scott's hand constantly stroke's his dog, not realizing just what an impact she had on his own demeanor. Arriving to the park, he's relieved to see it's fairly quiet today, and they had their pick of tables to finish their lunch at.

Getting out of the car, Domino strains against her leash, sniffing everywhere and proving her energy by wrapping her leash around Scott's legs several times. It was a miracle he didn't trip and fall, but he didn't reprimand her - he was too glad to be playing with her to care.

They find a nearby table, and Scott sits across from Hope, opening up the styrofoam take-out box. Domino proves she knows exactly what those kinds of boxes hold. Putting her front paws up on the bench, she begs her master with a sorrowful look.

"Uh-uh." Scott shakes his head. "I know Laura fed you this morning."

Sighing, Domino sits back down, but then gets a better idea. She goes around the other side of Scott, jumps up on the bench next to him, and rest her chin on the table. Her ears perked and her eyes shining big and bright, it would take a cold heart to ignore her.

Scott smirks, then looks to Hope. "Did I mention she knows how to get her way?" Shaking his head, he picks out a piece of chicken from his food, and hands it to her. Domino takes it ever so gently, chewing it in a very lady-like fashion.

Distracted from the way his stomach had felt earlier, Scott manages to take another bite himself.

Satisfied that she got a taste, Domino jumps back onto the ground, and suddenly shoots across the grass, dragging her leash along with her.

Scott looks up, raising his eyebrows. "Hey!" he calls after her. "Where do you think you're going?"

Domino had her eye on a stick that was just her size, and didn't stop until she had it between her teeth. Showing off her trophy, she comes bounding back to the table. Halfway there though, her foot lands on her leash. Coming to an abrupt halt, she rolls too summersaults, the stick flying.

Blinking, she rights herself, the leash now hanging over her ears as a head ornament. But retaining her dignity, she picks her stick back up and continues her route, this time keeping her speed to a trot.

A genuine smile surfaces on Scott's face, followed by a quiet laugh. Some might not think a thing of it. But anybody having spent time with him since his return would surely notice that this was indeed rare.

Domino comes back to the table, proudly bearing her stick, completely oblivious to the fact that she looked hilarious with her leash draped over her head. Aiming for Hope, she drops the stick near her feet and sits down, waiting. The leash slowly slides from her head and back onto the ground.

Scott fidgets with his fork, a small smile still faintly visible. "She doesn't ask just anybody to throw toys for her."


Rocky paces his apartment, undecided and uncomfortable. He had to tell the others. He had to. He couldn't just let this go. They would need an explanation, not to mention, they had to decide very quickly about tonight's concert. Axel... one of their own... had a past no one could have imagined. Whether he'd stayed clean during the last year or not, how could they trust him? How could they just ignore what had been discovered? Acting Christian about it was one thing. Forgiving was one thing. But for the sake of all involved, distrust was a given, and he wouldn't feel guilty about feeling that distrust. Friend or foe, a past like that couldn't just slide by unnoticed. Axel had been secretive at the very least, which only increased suspicion of his current intentions.

Finally, Rocky picks up the phone and dials Joel. "Joel, it's Rocky. Emergency Cryptic meeting. No, it can't wait. We need to meet now. My place is fine. Call Kyle too."


Ryder's eyes widen as Katie makes a dash to join the brawl. He makes a step back out of the way, and just watches, surprised that everybody was this loose when they had such and intense mission. Then again, what else were they supposed to do?

Getting knocked off of Carson, Jason lets out a yelp. "Hey! Whose side are you on?"

"Oh, Katie, you are my hero!" Carson laughs.

"Sure..." Jason wrestles Katie to the side. "He needs a girl to take me down."

"I almost had you," Carson defends as he lies on his back, still panting.

Jason struggles with Katie, finally pinning her on her back. "Aha! See what you get for interfering? Now you'll have to pay." He leans in close, ready to give her a kiss.

"Whoa, whoa, whoa!" Carson shifts, quickly wrapping his legs around Jason's waist and throwing him backward. "No smooching on the job!"

Ryder quirks an eyebrow. Was it all fun and games between Jason and Katie, or had he missed something?

As Jason flies back, his head lands on a table leg and he groans. "You realize when you hurt me, you hurt her," he accuses.

"Only if you let it," Carson counters, pulling himself up in a sitting position.

Jason throws him a look. "Since when did you become so wise about this?"

"Well somebody has to keep you two in line."

"And you think you're capable of that?"

Carson shrugs. "With you, maybe. But not this sheila over here."

"Now that I believe."

Ryder shakes his head and moves to the refrigerator. Part of him was amused, and part of him wished he could join the fun, but he wasn't quite sure how to break into this group. They were different than others from TJY he'd met. Opening the fridge, he scans the contents and grimaces. Going for the freezer, he sees a few steaks. "Anybody up for beef for supper?"

Carson perks up and pulls himself up off the floor. "Only if I get to cook it."

Seeing the coast is clear, Jason crawls back over to Katie, stealing the kiss he'd attempted earlier.
Ha! Poor guy doesn't even know what's hit him with the two of us.

Carson keeps his back turned. "Cut it out you two, you're embarrassing the rest of us."

Ryder throws Carson a look of question, which is answered by a roll of the eyes. Ah, so Jason and Katie were together then. Ryder was even more embarrassed about the day before now, and was glad Katie hadn't told anyone of his little diversion.

Never Fear

As Rocky takes Jess hand she can feel the gentilness and the yurning to help take awau her hurt though he new there really was no way. Jess new he was trying to help but all she wanted to do was hide. Run away from her mind and run away from everything right now.

Looking down at Rocky's hand on her she slowly brings her other hand to his and for a moment lays it on top of it. A signal that had been ok. Hearing his offer that if she needed anything Jess tucks it into the back of her mind. Watching Rocky turn and start to walk away Jess gives a reply after him before turning and makeing her own way inside.

"Thank you and the same goes for you. I'll see ya in a few days."

Turning Jess makes her way inside and shuts the door locking it behind her. Now that she was alone the tears fall from her eyes. Going into her bed room Jess sinks down on the bed and burrys her face in the pillow just letting them come.

Getting the food togther and ready to go Hope starts in the direction of the park. Hearing Scott's request a smile spreads across Hopes face.

"It just so happens I do like dogs and I would love to meet Domino. Lead the way!"

If getting Domino would help Scott relax than by almeans Hope was not aganst it. She did like dogs herself after all.

Not being able to contain her laughter Katie just shakes her head giving her own cheers here and there. Turning to Ryder she shakes her head.

"Oh they are always like this...well we all are actully when we get bored and have to much energy and no where to direct it."

Giving another laugh Katie's face lights up as her eyes just sparkle. Carson and Jason sure did look like they were having fun. Not being able to handle it anymore a cruded grin forms on her face as her mind starts to whip up ideas.

"But you know what they say you cant beat them join em!"

Giving a running start Katie aims for Carson and Jason as Jason still had Carson pinned to the ground.

"Never fear Hero is here."

Leaping Katie catches Jason and tackles him off of Carson to the ground laughing hystaricly as she lays in a heap with them.

Oaf

Rocky watches Jess, wishing he could do more. He didn't know if he felt worse for himself or her.

"Yeah... I guess it is kinda hard on me too." He swallows hard, his eyes drifting down. "I'll have to tell the others too... I wouldn't feel right leaving them in the dark." He shakes his head, a sorry laugh surfacing. "And we have a concert tonight... Guess maybe we'll have to cancel for the first time in Cryptic's history."

Taking a deep breath, he turns and gets out of the car, coming around to Jess' side as she gets out too. "I'll call somebody to come pick me up, but I'll start walking in my car's direction."

He hesitates, looking at Jess with so much compassion that it almost hurt. He knew that he couldn't overstep any bounds with her - not only because of her own past, but today most certainly hadn't helped her uneasiness around men.

His eyes ask for permission before he reaches over to take her hand and give it a reassuring squeeze. "If you need anything... if anything happens... or even if you just want to talk... please call." He knew they didn't know each other all that well... and Jess might not even trust him any further than the few lunches they'd had together. But for some reason, he was drawn to trying to make her feel better, and as strange as it felt, he knew that if he lost her friendship through this whole thing, he'd miss her.

Rocky finally lets go of Jess' hand and backs up a step, ready to turn and head out to the street. "I'll see you soon."


Axel sat in his chair in the dim light that tried to break through the closed blinds over the window. He felt numb, yet in excruciating pain at the same time. Over and over and over again, he saw the look in Rocky's eye, and he saw the look on Jess' face. They thought he was a monster.

Bending forward, he puts his face in his hands. The embarrassment was immeasurable. The shame was off the charts. He grew hot in the face just thinking about it.

His stomach churned. He didn't know how Rocky had found out, but it must have been some horrid chain of events after Darrel had found out. Axel had known the word might spread, but he hadn't thought it would be that fast, and he'd hoped... he'd hoped Jess wouldn't ever know. Any woman, let alone one with a past like hers, would never want to speak to him again. This storm produced no joy... this storm emitted no light to form a glow after the rain.

Axel know that shortly, all of Cryptic would know. Rocky wouldn't keep it a secret. Axel was as good as off the band now. Cryptic was what had gotten him back on his feet... and he knew that now he would not be allowed back on that team. And why should they let him be? It could really hurt the band if the public knew... and eventually, they probably would.

He was facing the loss of his job, the loss of his apartment, and the loss of all his friends. He was facing the reality that he might as well not even be here anymore. With his past exposed, he wouldn't be able to live here... not and have to endure the looks in people's eyes... the fear... the wondering. No one would trust him again. Taylor would probably freak. The guys would all be upset like Rocky. Carson... well, Axel didn't know what he'd think. Then Jess... back to Jess... Oh, how much pain that thought caused, to try and comprehend what she must think of him, and what she must feel as a result.


Scott looks up at Hope, knowing good and well that she could see his discomfort. He wished he could be doing better... he wished he could have made more progress for her. He knew it made her happy when he made steps forward. But today... this atmosphere... it was just a little too much.

Finally, he gives a little nod. "Okay... the park is alright..." He forces an apologetic smile. "...not so many walls."

Once their food is put in take-out boxes and they're in Hope's car, heading for the park, Scott bites his lip, glancing ahead to a street that didn't lead to the park. "Um..." He felt a bit uneasy in the car with her, and even more so, making this request. But he wanted to. "If... if I show you how to get there, we can pick up Domino... and take her to the park with us? I'd... kinda like you to meet her." Then he hesitates. "I mean... if you don't mind dogs? Or mind them in your car?"

He grimaces a little at his own awkward sentences. "Or never mind... we can just go and eat."


Kyle flops down in a kitchen chair and peels a banana for breakfast. Sifting through some mail and papers on the table, he realizes that Phil and brought home the What's Up? magazing. Not having yet had time to read the whole article Alice had written, Kyle flips to it and leans his elbows on the table, settling in to read.

A small smile comes to his lips. He'd never been this important before... Maybe he'd balk at the attention, but a part of him did feel good. Someone had noticed him... someone had taken interest... someone thought he was worth the bother to write about.

Finishing his banana, Kyle gets up, and takes the magazine back to his bedroom where he put it in his drawer. It wouldn't be going in the trash.


Jason is at the kitchen window and lets a laugh slip at Katie's comment.

Carson glances up from the table and quirks an eyebrow at them, giving Katie an annoyed, but humorous look. "And what are you two laughing at?"

Jason intervenes. "Inside joke."

"Inside, my foot," Carson retorts. "On second thought, if you two have been talking behind my back, maybe I don't want to know what it was about."

Jason tosses Katie a wink, then chuckles, shaking his head. He walks behind Carson's chair, that was tipped back on its back legs. He gives a light kick at just the right angle to send the chair sliding off balance.

Carson's feet fly off the table, but instead of just falling like Jason wanted, he reaches back behind his head and grabs Jason. Both wind up on the floor instead of just Carson, and after a short struggle on the floorboards, Carson's got Jason pinned down on his stomach, one arm pressed to his back. "Though you could get away with that, did you, hmm?"

Jason laughs, despite his position. "Get off, ya big oaf."

"Oaf? Oaf?" Carson tightens his grip and the pressure to Jason's arm. "Who you calling an oaf?"

Out of breath, Jason struggles under Carson's weight. "Watch it or I'll bring the light down on your head."

Carson grins. "Can't beat me without that power of yours, eh?"

Somehow, Jason manages to wriggle out of Carson's grasp, flip around and reverse the hold, now pinning Carson down.

Ryder wanders in from the living room, casually watching the friendly wrestling match. He hooks his thumbs in his jeans pockets and leans on the doorway, then glances to Katie. "Those two always go at it, or is it this great Austrailan air getting to them?" He knew that it was just boredom, and though it was wasting energy, at least they weren't killing each other.

Bozo

Not even relizing they where back at her place Jess just stairs a head for a long moment. One would think her silence ment she hadnt hurd Rocky but she had...oh how she had. Her mind was just trying to process everything and it was doing it at a slow pace as she felt so stunned.

Turning to Rocky Jess takes her keys and just plays with them for a moment till she finally looks up and speaks.

"It probley could of been handled differntly but I guess I cant blame you for what you did. I cant say if I was you I would of done something differntly."

Letting out a sigh Jess just sits again she still hurt and all she wanted to do was cry but she wouldnt let herself she couldnt, she had to be strong.

"Thank you Rocky for wanting to protect me, that means alot."

And really it did. Jess never had somone say they wanted to protect her before and though in a side time it did kind of make Jess feel good, but still at a time like this it didnt help enough.

Laying a hand on her door handle Jess opens it and than turns back to Rocky again. She wanted a hug, she wanted to be comfort but to ask for it was hard not to mention it kind of scaired her just a little. Jess had been long for so long, that actully wanting someone alse was diffenrt.

"Thank you again Rocky. I'm...sorry this happend I know it must be hard on you as well."

Being able to sence Scott akwardness Hope offers him a smile and she leans in just a little bit to whisper.

"Scott, we can go if you like? We can take our food back to the office or maybe go to the park. We dont have to sit here with everyone if you dont like. It was a little bit busyer than normal here today."

Hope was happy Scott had come out with her today, but she felt bad she had picked this restront now. Normaly on the weekdays it was pretty slow and hardly any people but it was just there luck that today it was. She wanted to make Scott as comfortable as she could, and if that ment taking there food else where than Hope was happy with that.

Stairing into the fridge Katie looks for something that maybe she could cook for dinner tonight for herself and the guys but the fridge was almost bear. Giving a sigh she turns.

"Can we at least go into town and get some food or something?"

Shaking her head Katie looks to Jason and gives a smile.

I hear ya. I am worryed about Angel and not having word makes it worse. If anything happend and I didnt know I would...

Katie stops herself for a moment shaking her head again to try and not think about that.

...I wish we could go in guns blazing too. Boy do I ever. I feel so restless sitting here. At least I have you to keep me company and not just thoughs two bozos.

Katie cant help the laugh that slips from her lips.

Than again I dont think I would want to be alone with these town.

Food

Driving, Rocky hears Jess, and doesn't understand. But he didn't have to. He could hear the pain in her voice, and it matched the same kind of pain he was feeling too. How he could have been so deceived, he didn't know. Axel had always been quiet about his past... but Rocky would never have thought it was something like this.

Getting to Jess' place, Rocky parks the car, but stays seated for a few minutes. He rubs his sore hand. "I... I'm sorry, Jess..." His tone proves he is sincere. "I shouldn't have lost my temper and... I shouldn't have made such a scene."

He swallows hard and looks out the window. "I just found out... it was Axel's boss... there was some kind of background check when the business was going over its books or something. I guess Leo heard several conversations... apparently Axel was put on suspension at work too because of his conviction. I just..."

He pauses again. He wanted to reach over and lay a hand on her arm, but he didn't want to frighten her. "...I didn't want him to hurt you."


Scott looks down at his plate, and runs his fork through the Italian dish, making a path. He looks at his lettuce salad and tries a bite, but it was only his third since it had arrived. He knew he wasn't much company... but being here with Hope was harder than he'd thought. It was a quiet corner of the restaurant, but the people were making him nervous.

He glances up once to look at Hope, then back down again. He was glad she was there... and he liked seeing her... it was better than staying at TJY all day and... he had to admit that sessions with her had helped. But this was a little overwhelming today, and he wasn't sure he could stomach the food he'd ordered.


"So are we going to sit here all day?" Carson leans back in his chair, his feet propped up on the kitchen table.

Ryder hears him from his place on the couch where he was stretched out. "Until things quiet down, we have to. You know that." Yesterday a few more Agency people had been snooping around, and it wasn't good for them wanting to get inside.

Jason yawns, pacing around the kitchen.
This is great... we know nothing about Angel, and we're stuck sitting on our hands. I wish we had an army and we could just go in guns blazing.

No Rainbow

As Rocky stops her Jess can hardly look up at him. She wasnt sure about anything right now. She was so confused and if she had trusted someone like Axel someone she had felt so close to could anyone pull the wool over her eyes. Rocky, Jason, Carson they all could be something they didnt clame to be.

Looking up at Rocky again a new fear is in Jess eyes and confustion. Searching Rocky's eyes she trys to look for something that wasnt there. Finally looking down again Jess relents.

"Ohhh...ok. I guess."

Slowly walks twords her car again Jess gives her keys to Rocky and goes around to the passanger side. Leaning her head aganst the window Jess looks out. The nice sunny day had now turned into a cloudy day. Jess normaly would welcome it but not toda.

"There will be no more rainbows after the storm, just dark clouds that keep the light from shinning. No...no more rainbows."

Not being able to help it more tears roll out of Jess eyes. She'd just lost someone she was close to, someone she cared about. Jess heart had been ripped from her chest, she had lost her rainbow.

Please?

Axel's devastation runs deeper than it's ever felt before. Everything he'd built up... all of his relationships... all of his friendships... everything... it would all be gone now. One simple piece of his past revealed, and now... everything had fallen to pieces and lay at his feet, broken.

He wipes his lip again, then wipes the blood on his jeans. Getting back to the shop was fast. He hadn't been far away. Parking, he trudges up the stairs and enters his quiet apartment. "God, why now... why are you doing this to me? Why does this have to happen? Why does this have to keep following me around?"

A tear of desperation runs down the side of his face - the first in many years.


Rocky feels utterly helpless, watching Jess. He was confused, he didn't know what to do now, or what any of this meant. But he'd done what he thought was right - separate Axel from someone Rocky cared about. He moves after Jess, exiting the restaurant with her. Sliding around in front of her, he stops her as gently as he can, trying not to be of any threat. He couldn't imagine what she must feel, knowing her past. He'd just lost a friend... she had already lost so much more than that.

"Jess... please... let me take you home?" His eyes are full of compassion and warmth. He wanted to comfort her if she'd let him... and maybe somewhere right now he needed some comfort too. He'd trusted Axel as well. "Please... let me drive? I can come back for my own car later."

Pain

Giving a smile and a laugh Jess sits back in her chair taking a sip of her water. It had been a nice day so far and the normal lunchs about 2 times a week broke up the time nicly. Not to mention just chatting with Axel was a blast as well.

About to continue on the topic Jess see Axel look to the side and turns to see what he was looking at. Quirking an eye brow at Rocky fecal expression Jess turns back to Axel with question wondering if he new what was up or not.

Looking at Rocky again a look of question cross her face at his words. Confusion and a bit of fear runs through Jess at Rocky's anger and acusations. She had never seen him like this before and could hardly say anything.

"Ro...wha..."

Not being able to get the words out Jess just sits frozen in her seat. Just continuing to listen and watch Jess is thrown off guard and gives a whimper as Rocky throws and connects his punch at Axel.

Almost shrinking in her chair Jess cant do anything untill she hears the words about Axel being in jail. Looking to Axel Jess eyes plead with him to tell that this was not true. But as no words come Jess dosnt know what to say. Her eyes follow Axel on his way out. She feel a suddon crash inside her and the feeling of being betrayed and having someone ripped away from her that she had learned to trust. The feeling was like nothing she had ever felt before, and it make her so sick she though she might throw up.

Hearing Rocky's question a tear rolls from Jess eye as she says nothing for a moment. Than finally she looks up at Rocky her eyes bloodshot though not many tears came out of them. Her hurt, the pain was on the inside.

"I dont think so. I just want to go home."

Gathering her things together Jess stands though feels a little wobbaly and still sick to her stomace. Though steadying herself she goes to pay and make her way for the door. People were stairing she didnt like it. Everything hurt inside and she just wanted to get out, to get away.

Past revealed

"Yeah... it was hard." Kyle doesn't open his eyes at first, but continues to think in the quiet. Finally though, he takes a deep breath and looks over to Alice, quirking a smile. "One down, one to go, then it's freedom time."

He gives a nod, almost as if more to assure himself than her. "And then the adventure begins." Mustering up any gumption he's got left, he pushes off the wall and slings an arm around Alice's shoulders to take her back in the other room with him. "You realize that since you're here, I'm going to put you back to work helping us load up."


The rest of the evening goes smoothly. No one really talks about Kyle leaving, letting the atmosphere stay light. Heading out for pizza, laughter comes easily, and the small group enjoys themselves. Saying goodnight, everyone is tired so heading home is easy. Tomorrow was another day... tomorrow for Kyle meant one more event. Tomorrow for the others meant the first day without the same JetStream...


Kyle groans and hits his alarm clock again. It was eleven in the morning. He ached, he was tired... but if he didn't get up and going, he'd never be able to meet Cryptic at three o'clock. Rolling himself out of bed, it's the same routine. Nothing was different. The apartment was quiet. Phil was gone for the day. Just as well... otherwise he'd be bugging Kyle about the oddity of his exhaustion.


Rocky wanders into the auto shop, tapping his knuckles on the door to get someone's attention. Leo pops up from a car engine and comes over, wiping his hands on a rag. "Hi, can I help you?"

Rocky nods, looking around. "Yeah, I'm looking for Axel. He working today?"

Leo purses his lips. "Uh.... no... no, he's not."

Rocky furrows his brow. "Oh. I thought he was. Is he just out on lunch?"

"I don't know. He, um... he's not working here right now."

Now Rocky was getting confused. "What do you mean?"

Leo bites his tongue. He shouldn't have heard the conversations he'd heard the day before. He shoudn't have stood and listened. He shouldn't have known about everything, but... he hadn't been able to help it. "Um... I... I shouldn't say anything, ya know?"

Rocky's eyes narrow. He'd only seen Leo a couple times, and didn't know him personally. But now was not the time to be skirting around this issue. Rocky needed to find Axel to talk to him about tonight, and he wasn't answering his cell phone. "I'm Axel's friend. Now... tell me what's going on."

"No, man... I mean... I don't know everything."

"Did he get fired or what?"

"Not... not exactly."

Rocky sighs and sets his hands on his hips. "Look, I haven't got all day."

Leo glances around the shop, seeing that no one else was around. "Well... I heard Darrel talking to him..."


Axel leans back in the booth, giving Jess a quirky grin after something funny had been said. "So... tonight we got a gig. Don't know what we'll be doing after that though, on account of Logan and Kyle."

He pauses, taking a sip of his water. The little diner was quiet today, and he was enjoying the peaceful lunch with Jess. Though there was a lot on his mind, and a lot that was weighing heavily on him, he liked just forgetting about it for a while. No watch, no cell phone... just letting time go by for once. He hadn't said anything to anybody about his job, but wasn't planning to until he knew what Darrel was going to do with him.


"Taylor?" Rocky knocks on her apartment door. He tries the doorknob, finding it open, and he rolls his eyes. He'd told her a million times to keep her door locked. Getting inside, he takes a quick look around. "Taylor?" No answer. Hopefully, that was a good thing. But the sickening feeling in the pit of his stomach was still there. After what Leo had told him, he'd checked Axel's apartment to find it empty. But then putting two and two together about how Taylor had been acting around Axel lately, Rocky had gone to her apartment next just to check on things.

Sighing, he looks around. Thankfully, nothing seemed amiss. He's just about ready to leave, when he sees her answering machine blinking. On a whim, he hits the play button. But he hadn't expected to hear the apology from Axel. If Rocky hadn't believed Leo before, he did now. This proved Axel's character, making Rocky feel all the more sick. His own phone rings.

"Yeah, hello?"

"Hey, Rock. It's Max. I just drove past the little diner on fifth, on my way to work. Saw Axel's car. Knew you were looking for him. I think he's there with Jess."

Rocky immediately bristles. "Thanks. He must not have his phone on him today. I'll go see if I can catch him. He hangs up without even saying goodbye, and is quickly out the door and down the steps, sprinting for his car. Jess. Why did Axel have to be with Jess? He wasn't about to waste any time. Not with this.


Axel is just about to say something more to Jess, when his eye catches the door to the diner opening. Looking up, he's surprised to see Rocky. A smile would have appeared, but the look on Rocky's face warned him that this was not a social call.

Rocky's stride is long and deliberate, his eyes narrowing into a glare. Though not wishing to make a scene in front of Jess, it would have to be ignored. "Axel?"

Axel looks up from his chair, becoming leery. He couldn't remember a time he'd seen Rocky this upset. He hadn't even greeted them. "Yeah, Rocky. What is it? What's wrong?" Now he regretted not carrying his phone with him.

"Did you really think you could get away with it?" Rocky hisses. "Did you really think we wouldn't find out?"

Axel searches his face, desperate to know what his friend was talking about. "Find out what? What are you talking about?"

Rocky's anger reaches a high. As if Axel wouldn't know. And seeing him here with Jess just made it worse. "I don't know why they let you out." His tone is full of the anger and betrayal he felt as his fist balls up at his side. "Someone like you deserves..." His words trail off as his temper gets the best of him.

Before Axel can even react, Rocky's knuckles meet his mouth in a hard right. He's hit with such force that he's knocked out of his chair and sprawls on the floor, dazed. Blinking, he puts a hand to his bleeding lip and looks up to Rocky with the look of a hurt and confused child who might have just been slapped for no reason. Tears would have come, had it not been for the confusion, and he looks wildly to Jess, then back to Rocky. He was too confused to try getting up just yet, afraid another punch would be thrown in his direction.

Rocky rubs his knuckles, knowing that he shouldn't have hit anybody, but he was so upset, and with someone he'd thought he knew.

Moving to the side, he keeps himself between Axel and Jess in a protective stance. "The truth is out, Axel. You've spent time behind bars and thought you could keep it a secret."

Axel's face pales, fear flashing through his eyes. They knew. No... how could they? This couldn't be happening. "Rocky, please." His tone is one of begging. Not here... not in front of Jess. "Please don't do this."

But Rocky wasn't about to let this one go. Not something as big as this. He looks to Jess grimly, though his expression is partially one of apology. He didn't want this information to hurt her, but greater yet, he didn't want Axel to hurt her. His eyes fall back to Axel. "I'm sorry. But I won't ignore anyone convicted of rape."

Axel felt as though he would be sick. He couldn't even bring himself to look at Jess, and his eyes finally fall from Rocky's. Picking himself up off the floor, he wipes his lip again, smearing blood on his hand. What he felt was pure devastation. He couldn't even begin to imagine the consequences of this scene.

His head down, he shoulders past Rocky, heading for the door, but a strong arm stops him.

Rocky's glare shows his own hurt and confusion mixed with the anger. "Touch Taylor or Jess again, and you'll pay."

Axel swallows hard. He had no fight. He had no way to argue or defend himself. He couldn't fight the truth. Hanging his head again, he goes for the door. Within seconds, his car is driving away.

Rocky watches to make sure he's gone before looking back at Jess. "I'm sorry," he apologizes quietly. His eyes show genuine care and concern. "Are you okay?"

Goal

Seeing Kyle make the can into the garbage Alice does a little hope in the air and throws her arms up.

"AND ITS GOOD!!!!!"

Followed with a laughter and a small push to Kyle she follows after him to him.

Jess mouth makes an O as she hears about Kyle. He was good at singing and playing the keybored but after how the band has acted the other night she wasnt saprised and not to sure she would of done it differntly.

"Well I guess we all need a change from the same old rutean once and a while huh? Ya never know he might be back after he just has some time."

The hour pass quickly and before anyone knows it, its time for the consert to start. Finding her seat Alice sits about 5 chairs away from the sound booth. Keeping her focus on Kyle the whole night she enjoys the music and the same never leaves her face. The energy running through the building and as the night comes to an end and Phil says his peace the crows starts to cheer for Kyle and maybe Alice's voice was one of the loudest.

As Kyle goes to the keybored again and the crowd quiets Alice watches him even more closly as she sways just a little to the music. The song held a sence of sadness and a sence of overcoming to it and Alice liked it. Watching Kyle walk off stands Alice makes her way through the people once more and pass infront of the soundbooth to where Kyle had slipped out.

Coming up along side him Alice leans aganst the wall and it quiet for several moments.

"You did good tonight and it must of been hard huh?"

Alice isnt quiet sure what alse to say. She didnt want to tell him it would be ok, and the same speach as she had before about moving on and trying new things. All she could do was be a friend to Kyle liked he needed and be there, the shoulder he could lean on. So staying silent Alice stays leaned agasnt the wall as the hall falls quiet being a friend she new Kyle needed.

All I got to lose

Kyle tilts his head back to finish off the can of pop, then chucks it halfway across the room to a garbage can, making a basket. "Yes!" He raises his arms in victory. "Two points!"

Spinning back around to Alice, he grins. "Yes. Speakers. Come here and I'll show you what I need."

Jen watches Kyle and Alice interact, lifting an eyebrow. Interesting. "Hey, Phil?"

"Yeah?"

Jen keeps her voice down. "How long has Kyle known Alice?"

"I don't know. Why?"

"Just curious. They act like they've been friends for years, but I've never seen her before, have you?"

"Nope."

Jen shrugs. Kyle had been acting strangely lately anyway - any more oddness shouldn't be surprising.


Axel works while listening to Jess. He shakes his head slowly. "Kyle's pulling out." He sighs and stands up straight, finished with the duct tape. He heads back to the sound table and motions for Jess to follow him, offering her a chair next to him. "Rocky asked him to sing for Cryptic since Logan is off for a while at least. He's singing tomorrow night for us, but otherwise, this is it. Not sure why, but... this is his last JetStream night. He's heading out with some group from a youth organization, so neither band is on his calendar anymore."

Axel fools with some sound settings. "I think that's why Jen let me help her with this tonight - she wanted to spend more time with her brother."


The night progresses with minimal stress. Though JetStream was tense about Kyle's position, they kept their act together and pleased the audience as always. Despite the absence of Jason, the crowd was on their feet and clapping as soon as the show started.

Up front, Kyle took on the position he had other times Jason had been gone, but this time was different... this time he was being himself, and the sound was better than ever.

Standing behind his keyboard, Kyle sings, letting his eyes roam the audience, often landing on Alice to throw her a smile. Staying in focus tonight was extremely difficult. Any instant of remembering this was his last night with JetStream would make him miss a beat. He had to shove all those thoughts and emotions aside, and he made Alice be his one point to stay with it.

His voice rings out crisp and true, for the first time with JetStream, giving his all. Phil and Mike back him up well, and Kyle skillfullly slipped into his quirky role between songs to get people laughing. Normally it was natural. Tonight it had to be deliberate, because he didn't feel much like laughing.

The night runs on, and finally, the notes of the last song are dying away. But instead of saying goodnight, Phil stops the show, not letting Mike or Kyle leave the stage. "Well y'all..." He uses his microphone to adress the audience. "Most of you probably don't know that this was Kyle's last night with JetStream."

Groans of disappointment come as the response. Kyle steps back from his keyboard, forcing half a smile, not sure what his brother was doing.

Phil nods. "We all come to points in our lives where we move up and move on. And I guess Kyle's at one of those points."

Jen sits next to Jess beside the sound table, a tear running down her cheek. She was going to miss her brother so much, and she didn't even understand why he was doing this.

Phil clears his throat. "Jason will be around as always, but we're going to miss our keyboard player..." He nods. "And our brother." Moving forward, he reaches out to shake Kyle's hand. "We love you, Kyle."

The audience starts to clap, proving there were fans there who had been listening to JetStream for years, having fallen in love with all the band members.

Kyle swallows hard, fighting his emotions. He knew Phil was sincere, and he appreciated it.

Phil turns back to the crowd and grins. "How about we ask him to do us one more song, eh?" The cheers make him laugh. "What do you say, Kyle?"

Kyle hadn't planned on this. He looks around to Mike, then Jen and Axel, then finds Alice again. How could he refuse? Managing a smile, he returns to his keyboard. Glancing up, his eyes scan the room. He didn't know which song to choose.

Phil comes up behind him and speaks quietly in his ear, not letting the audience hear. "You said you'd written a new one."

"Sure," Kyle whispers, "But you and Mike don't know it."

"So?" Phil was proud of his brother, and proved it. Backing away, he points to Kyle and claps, encouraging the audience to do the same. "Kyle Mitts, folks." He retreats from the spotlight, unstrapping his bass, and signalling to Mike that they wouldn't have to back up Kyle for this one.

Kyle hesitates, but finally pulls himself together enough to start playing his keyboard. Letting the music build for several measures, the room grows quiet, all listening, all watching.

Closing his eyes, Kyle lets his fingers find their way across the strong melody that produced invigorating emotions.

All I got to lose is the pain inside,
All I got to lose is the fear I hide.
All I got to lose is the darkness killing me.

All I got to lose is one chance tonight,
All I got to lose is the inner fight.
All I got to lose is the war defeating me.

So why... don't I run?
Why don't I try to make a difference?
Why... don't I run? Don't I run?

All I got to gain is a better way.
All I got to gain is to sail away.
All I got to gain is a life beyond my reach.

All I got to gain is a clearer view.
All I got to gain is the scattered few.
All I got to gain is a heart void of fear.

So why... don't I run?
Why don't I try to make a difference?
Why... don't I run? Don't I run?

All I got to lose is a past behind me.
All I got to gain is a path in front of me.
All I got to lose is the darkness killing me.

All I got to gain is a brightened future.
All I got to lose is a pain without a cure.
All I got to gain is a life beyond my reach.

So why... don't I run?
Why don't I try to make a difference?
Why... don't I run? Don't I run?

The final notes die away, and the room is deathly quiet. Until someone claps. Another stands. And soon everyone is cheering their farewell. Kyle smiles and waves to them, making eye contact with Jen so he can wink at her, and Alice too so he can nod his thanks for her being there too.

Making his way offstage, the lights come back on, and as quickly as the night had begun, it was over. The noise of the crowd leaving filled the room. The band started to pack up almost immediately, knowing that it was getting late.

Axel turns in his seat to look at Jen. "Well... that's that, then. I'm gonna stick around to pack up and will probably go out for pizza. You're... more than welcome to come." He gives her a little smile, proving that it was a sincere invitation.

Kyle doesn't say much to the others, and while packing up, he quietly slips out into the hall where it was empty. Leaning back against the wall, he closes his eyes and takes a deep breath. A lot of things were running through his mind... a lot of things.


Ryder can't help his laugh at Katie. "Ya know... for some reason, I think I'd rather wrestle a croc than you. I can beat a croc - I'm not so sure I could beat you."

Shaking his head, he makes usure the coast is still clear, then motions for her to follow him again. "Come on. We need to get Carson and Jason out of here before more guys come. Not all of them will be that stupid."

Pass

Grasping Ryder's hand back Katie lets a look of fear cross her face as she looks at the man's shotgun bringing herself closer to Ryder.

Just listing to him and the other man talk Katie stays close keeping her face expression the same. As Ryder starts away again Katie still stays close following after till till Ryder pulls her off the side of the road.

Brushing herself off she looks up at Ryder and shakes her head as a grin spread across her lips. If in the postion he was in to protect someone she probley would of done the same thing so she had no idea why he was saying sorry.

"I think I'll refrain from hitting you at this moment. I dont wanna hurt ya."

Katie cant help but throw a playful wink at Ryder.

Laughing and taking Kyle's mountain dew Alice takes a quick sip.

"Ya know, I think you right actually, and now that I have had some of this. I'll be even hyper with you."

Alice hands the can back to Kyle.

"Speaker right, lets get to it."

Jess smiles back at Axel as she continues to help him.

"Its nice to see a rainbow to break up the storms normal ordinary day."

Standing again Jess moves down a little bit more continuing to help. It really was nice to be here and help. It made her feel like she really did have something to do to be of some kind of help. Getting out of the house was always nice after all the strange things that has been happing.

"Hows everthing been going here? Good after what happend last time with Kyle?"

Now's the part

While glad for Katie's acting skills, Ryder suddenly realizes that this may have not been his best choice ever. It was just as well that someone was coming.

"Oy! What's this?" A man's tone is harsh, and the sound of a cocking rifle follows.

Ryder lets go of Katie quickly, backing up a step, but letting his hand fall to hers where he holds it tightly, warning her not to react. He eyes the man warily. "Whoa, take it easy, mate." He raises a hand in surrender. "I'm not a wild boar if that's what you're hunting."

The man squints with distrust. "And what are you hunting then with those sidearms of yours?"

Ryder gives a little laugh. "You expect me to bring her out here without something to fend off the crocs? I might be crazy, but I'm not stupid."

"You come all the way out here for nothing but a walk in the park, ay?"

"Well..." Ryder throws him a wink. "Let's not get too specific, shall we? I didn't know we were trespassing."

"I won't report you if you two move along. Go get a motel and quit hanging around the bush. Next time I'm liable to shoot before making sure you're not out for more than a good time."

"Right. Sorry for the scare." Ryder steps to the side, his hand still on Katie's to take her with him. "Come on, love." Once they're safe behind several trees and shrubs, he pulls her off the path and keeps quiet until he sees the man go back the way he'd come. "The Agency hires some real idiots," he whispers. "He didn't even think that we're five miles off the nearest road."

Letting out a breath, Ryder shuts his eyes tight as he grimaces. He could have been a little more creative than that, and a bit of color comes to his face. "Sorry about that." He glances down at Katie, fighting against the feelings that tried to distract him from their mission. "I guess now's the part where I should tell you that you can slap me if you want."


Kyle laughs at Alice. "As if there are times when you're not having fun." He offers her his Mountain Dew. "Fuel up, then you can help me set up the speakers."


Axel fidgets with the sound board, getting things plugged into the right places, and making sure things were straight. Normally Jen did all of this, but he'd volunteered, and she hadn't seemed to mind a bit. At least it kept his mind and hands busy... right now, that was a plus.

Getting up, he goes to set some cords straight, retrieving the roll of duct tape to make sure everything was held down in place and no one would be tripping over anything throughout the evening.

As he bends over, he hears a familiar voice and smiles. Looking up, he gives her a little nod. "Storm clouds are always welcome in a rainbow's world."

Feeling

Giving a smile and a nod Alice cant help but smile as she saw the Article and Kyle looked at it. Not paying much attachen to the discomfort in the room she cant help but giggle and give a quick slap to Kyles arm before taking Mikes hand and smiling.

"Its nice to finally meet you Mike..."

Than turning to Phil she smiles again and takes his hand.

"...nice to meet you as well Phil."

Turning again Alice jogs to catch up with Kyle filled with her normal energy and being this close to the band and excitment just adds to it.

"So can I help with something? I am off the clock today so I can have all the fun I want."

Entering the hall Jess walks slow to the front and makes her way to the stage. Seeing Axel she walks slowly over to him and gives a wave.

"Hey, need some help."

Bending down Jess colds a cord in place for Axel as he tapes it.

As Ryder pulls Katie close her own eyes widen. What on earth. Before even a second though his lips are pressed to her as she gives a small jump. Not being able to help the small amount of pleasure that washed over her before she brings herself back to the face that this was wrong. But feeling something alse Katie's second instince kicks on telling her for the moment to keep tits up.

Wrapping her arms around Ryder Katie trys to make it look as real as she could. If she found out later that this was just Ryders way to kissing her she slap him than.

Article

Ryder grins, not to admit right now that he had, in fact, taken down a few crocs. "Well, as long as you're not mad, then come on, bodyguard. Let's make sure the coast is still clear."

Heading a ways further down the trail, they come back to the calm river. Ryder leans up against a tree, scanning the bank and keeping an eye out the way they'd come, to ensure no one had followed. He squats down to check out the ground, making sure there were no new footprints, at least where their group had crossed.

Suddenly though, movement catches his eye. His instincts kick in, and warn him that the figure moving towards them was a foe, not a friend, and he stands.

Thinking quickly, Ryder reaches out and grabs Katie, bringing her in close to him. He could only hope she'd play along and not blow their cover. There were few reasons two people would be found out here in the middle of nowhere, and in the heat of the moment, only one came to mind. Wrapping his arms around Katie, he presses his lips to hers, keeping her firmly in his grasp. A feeling washes over him that he tries to ignore. Getting caught in this position might be the only way out of this, whether either of them liked it or not.


Phil grabs several bottles of water from the counter by the gas station register, along with a pack of gum. He'd made a quick run in the middle of setting up for the concert, to grab a few things they'd forgotten. Paying for the items, his eye catches a name on the nearby rack. What's Up? magazine showed off its list of articles on the front page. What was that? Phil squints. Kyle Mitts? What on earth...

He grabs the magazine to look at it more closely.

"Buying or gawking?"

Phil looks back up at the man behind the counter. "Uh... buying." Walking back out to his truck with a bag in one hand, his other flips open the magazine that he'd never paid attention to before. There was an article about Kyle? How? Why? Did he know it? Apparently... looked like he'd been interviewed. Who was Alice Whitt? Why hadn't Kyle said anything?


Kyle spins around, hearing Alice's voice. He swallows a mouthful of the Mountain Dew, a grin surfacing. "Well, if it's isn't the Whitty woman, come to join the chaos. Welcome."

Jen lifts her eyebrows. Though smiling, she wasn't sure who this woman was. "Yes, well... desperate times call for desperate measures." She laughs. "And any time with Kyle can make for desperate measures."

"But you love me, don't you?" Kyle teases. Moving to Alice, he slings an arm around her shoulder and drags her closer to the group. "Hey, y'all, this is Alice. Treat her nice 'cause she's a journalist and we want her saying good things." He stops and turns to look at her. "Come to think of it, treat her nice just because she's my friend, and that's a good enough reason right there."

Though still somewhat confused, Mike steps forward, extending his hand. "Hi, Alice. Glad to meet you."

Jen makes it over with her braces and crutches. "Yes, nice to meet you too. Have you known Kyle long?" She couldn't help her curiosity. She usually knew all of Kyle's friends.

"Long enough to write this." Phil comes in from the side, holding up the magazine. He wasn't upset, just confused, and maybe a little put out that they hadn't known about the article. He looks to his brother. "She the one who wrote it?"

"Wrote what?"

"Don't give me that." Phil hands the article to Kyle.

Kyle takes another swig of pop and lets his arm slide off of Alice so he can take the magazine and look at it. "Well, whadya know..." He elbows Alice as he scans the article. "She did talk about us."

"Thanks for letting us know," Phil comments dryly.

"Hey, sorry... didn't think it was that big of a deal." Kyle shrugs and sets the magazine down, taking note of where it was so he could come back to it later. He wanted to read it all the way through when he had time.

Phil roll his eyes and sighs. There was no point in fighting. Not tonight... this show would be hard enough. Instead, he turns to Alice. "Hi, you must be Alice."

Sugar

Looking back up at Ryder as he whipes sweat from her face Katie shakes her head. She felt foolish still but now Ryder was trying to make her feel better how could she not let him know she wasnt mad.

"Enemies ha, you'd have to do something pretty bad for that."

Katie shakes her head again giving a small laugh.

"I am sure you will be able to see us in action sooner or later, and as for Carson dont let him get to ya eh? He's a big softly unless you mess with his friends."

Giving Ryder a once over she shakes her head as she starts forward again.

"I think the the croc should be more scaired of you than you it."

Opening the back door Alice hopes she was going in the right back door. Making her way around things Alice follows the vocies.

Coming through another door Alice just smiles as she finally sees Kyle with the rest of the band. Just standing there for a moment Alice says nothing as she watches and than drawing close as Jen throws him the MD she chuckles.

"Ya know I was told its a bad thing to give this guy here sugars and I saw it first hand let me tell you."

Alice cant help the grin the cross her face.

Croc

Ryder lifts his eyebrows. He hadn’t known about anything like this, and hadn’t been prepared for this kind of an answer. It sounded unbelievable. A form of telepathy? And being able to manipulate things? He didn’t quite understand. It sounded crazy.

But Katie’s tone proved otherwise. Ryder had known her for barely twenty-four hours, and one thing he knew for certain – she wouldn’t lie. And if that were true, then what she said now had to be the truth. He believed her.

Seeing her start to walk away, Ryder knew for certain he’d made her feel foolish. Though he wouldn’t have changed his opinion, he knew he could have handled things differently. This whole mission had disrupted his mood, and he needed to be more careful. It hadn’t been just Carson that had set him off – spying on the Agency building had made him think of Brian again too. And what he thought of Katie had just compounded the whole thing, irritating the tar out of him.

Rolling his eyes, Ryder steps forward, putting a hand on Katie’s shoulder to stop her. “So now you just walk away, is that it?”

He forces her to turn around to face him again. “I thought you had more guts than that.” He sighs and reaches out to wipe a stream of sweat off the side of Katie’s face. “I’d like to see you and Jason in action if what you say is true. But I can’t, if we’re gonna be enemies. So… how about a truce… third time’s the charm, right?”

Ryder, gives her a wary grin. “If I get taken down by a croc at the river, I need somebody to tell the guys I’m gone.”


Kyle sets a tote down by the stage and wanders back out to the pickup to grab some more equipment. Axel was there early to help out, but things just seemed to be dragging. His mood was off, and he didn't feel like performing at all. But he didn't have much of a choice.

Jen sits on the sidelines, having already spent too much energy. She throws a bottle of Mountain Dew at her brother. Kyle almost misses, but catches it, giving her a look of question. "You usually don't let me have sugar," he manages to tease.

Jen shrugs. "Thought you looked like you needed a pick-me-up."

Kyle takes a swig of the pop. Maybe he did. But this time, he didn't think the sugar would do the trick.

Reason

Katie shakes her head that was one thing about words they could never be taking back no matter how foolish they sounded now.

Turning away Katie almost felt like a kid that had been scolded and wants to now just crawl away. A feeling it had been so long since she felt. Not turning back around Katie states.

"I have a unique ability with Jason. We dont tell many people about it for many reasons. We can talk to each other without even being next to one another, and when one is in danger, or hurt the other one knows it. I can always tell when he is near and he can with me too though its a little differnt for him. It comes in handy when going on missons like this. Put us together on a team and well....we just are pretty good togther. Along with being able to manipulate things so we can get into doors, past guards and such of that nature. Thats why I am here."

Staring back the way the came Katie figured it was best to rejoin the other. She mad a fool of herself and she new it. There was no point in standing around any longer.

That's all

“All I wanted to know was why Reese chose you for this mission, and most of what you said didn’t even apply.” Ryder shakes his head. “I don’t need to know you have a photographic memory, or that you have enough stubbornness to fire a gun when you’re hurt.”

He pauses, searching her face. He could tell he’d hurt her feelings, and he lowers his tone. “I needed to know that you were sent because you’d done the most research about this operation. Or because you had the most skill when it came to getting in under security. Or because you knew exactly what it was you guys are looking for. That’s all I wanted to know.”

Sighing, Ryder takes a deep breath, calming himself. “Look, I’m sorry, okay? I just… I’ve seen too many people like you, Katie. People who are so talented that they don’t even realize they don’t need to prove it all the time. I don’t give a rat’s patooty that you can fire a gun at all, let alone with a broken arm. I care that you’re focused on success in the mission – not your own abilities. I care that you’re focused on what the team as a whole can accomplish – not what you yourself can accomplish in the team.”

He pauses, looking into Katie’s eyes. His tone grows even softer. “And I know that that’s what’s in your heart. So quit trying to tell me what you’re good at.”

Ryder shrugs lamely. “Carson set me off, and I shouldn’t have let him. For that, I’m sorry.”

Ferm

Katie own eyes fill with a blase as the emotions pool behind them. Ryder's words hurt more than maybe she'd like to addmit.

"I'm NOT trying to show off at all. I'd like to know how I am? I said I wanted to come with you because I didnt want you to go alone because that is what a team is about and just because I am not with the other does not mean they have no contact with me. I was trying to be nice you Ryder because thats the kind of person I am. Compassion, friendship, loyalty thats who I am."

Katie shakes her head. This felt like a brick wall all she wanted to do was to go with Ryder because she did want him going alone, a team sticks together. Enimy taritories no matter how many times you have gone over them can always still be dangerus. Not alowing herself to second guess Katie stood ferm.

Nervous

Ryder’s blue eyes turn to steel against Katie’s words. He opens his mouth to rebuke her accusation of him not wanting to be outdone by a woman, but suddenly he whirls around, knife drawn, staring into the brush. The hair on the back of his neck stood on end. He’d felt like someone had been watching him. But just as quickly, the feeling vanished.

Turning back around, he resheaths his knife. “All you’re doing is making me paranoid about a route that I know like the back of my hand.”

He takes a step closer to her. “I don’t survive because I’m neutral,” he counters. “I survive because I either stand up for what I believe, or I walk away. Last night I saw compassion in your eyes. Today I see a hothead waiting for the chance to show off. So now who’s different?”

Deal

For a moment Katie is almost stunned by Ryder's accusation.

"Well seeing as I came along before Carson I think it was my own talent that got me where I am. Carson likes me as much as he likes the next person and he has nothing to do with why I am here. We all stick our necks out for our team mates and thats why I am here. Because I had a bad feeling and I wanted you make sure YOU my team mate would be ok and not alone. Its in my blood to keep peope safe no matter the cost."

Keeping in step with Ryder Katie dosnt fall behind or slow down.

"As for getting back safly I am sure they could get us back just as well as I could or you could. I dont know what your problem is when someone is trying to be nice to you and look out for you and you gotta do it on you own. So I am a woman big whoop. Or is that the thing is it maybe I would be right and you where own done by a woman that makes you act this way?"

Katie can't help the grin that was on her face and just for a moment she lets a bit of her emotions point them self at Ryder to make him feel only a tad bit uncomfortable but not enough to worry Jason. Than shutting them off again quickly.

"Just accept that I am here with you and deal with it. Last time you seemed to like me now you seem to hate me, just stay nutreal or something and deal with it."

Suggestion

“You are full of it,” Ryder retorts. He makes several more steps back down towards the trail, then stops to turn around again. “My guess is, that you’re good enough, that being an agent is easy for you. Reese sent you because you’re one of the best, but you haven’t even been with TJY all that long, which proves you must be a natural at something.”

He shakes his head. “Last I checked though, tolerance for pain and threats to hit a teammate weren’t enough to make the cut though. So either a lot has changed, or you got here because you’re arrogant enough to slip in through the back door. Or maybe it’s because Carson likes you so much.”

Biting his tongue, Ryder stops, his eyes ablaze. “If I were you, I’d turn right back around and go back to your team. Unless the only reason you’re following me is because you don’t think your blokes are smart enough to get you back safely the way we came.”

Wake

No problem. I'll yell if I need help.

Rolling her eyes Katie jogs a little to catch up with Ryder. All of a suddon he was the one that sounded cocky.

"Yeah well if dosnt matter how many times you have gone over ground danger can still lerk. Dont underestimate me Ryder."

Feeling herself becoming just a tiny bit adgatated Katie trys to keep her cool. Ryder didnt know about her ability and there was no need to go and get him all worked up and not know why.

"Ok smarty pants I dont have a broken arm anymore, and last time I checked I have some pretty good strangth in it so unless you want a nice wack to the back of the head cool it and you said I was full of myself."

Hardly

Scott nods bravely. "Okay... I'll have Rick bring me tomorrow." Hesitating, he heads to Hope's desk, picking up his camera where the images had been locked inside.

Thinking a moment, he quietly heads to the door, ending the session for the day. He was exhausted... all he wanted to do now was sleep.


Carson rolls his eyes at Katie. "Yeah, just don't get yourself into any trouble, alright?"

Jason smirks at her.
Yeah, yeah... what he said. I doubt you'll have any trouble. All the action is down around the building, not behind us. But whatever. Holler if you see something.

Ryder stops his his tracks to spin around. "Bad feeling?" He forces a laugh and sets a hand on his hip. "Personally, I think you need to stick with your team. I've been walking this route for months. I hardly think I need a sheila like you along for a bodyguard. Unless I need someone with a broken arm to use a shotgun."

In touch

Slowly getting to her feet Katie quietly movies still not liking the feeling she was getting. Whispers she lets other other two know.

"I'm going with him, I have a bad feeling and I dont like it. Weather he is one of us or not he is still a TJY member and if anything happend I would feel horrbale for not trusting my instinaacts. Dont worry I might not be next to you but I will still have contact with you."

Katie taps to her head and winks at Jason before going back down the trail after Ryder.

"Wait up...I am coming to. I dont want you going alone, I just have a bad feeling."

Hope gives a nod to Scott and smiles.

"Tomarrow about noon, hows that sound?"

She was glad Scott had made this decition. It was just another step in the big picture.

Blame

Ryder’s eyes narrow slightly, and he keeps his voice down, though it’s strained. “Look, nobody scares me away. But I know when I’m not wanted or needed. As for blowing our cover, if you think I’m that stupid, then I probably shouldn’t be out here at all.”

His eyes stare into Katie’s for a long moment. The teasing from last night wanted to come out again, but it was held back.

“I’ll go check the trail below. You three take your time.” Sliding back out of sight from below the cliff, he gets to his feet, slinging his backpack over his shoulder and aiming back down the trail.

Carson grunts his disapproval, but doesn’t stop him. He blamed himself. He’d been stupid. He shouldn’t have said what he had. But now he had to concentrate on the mission, not Ryder.


Scott gives Hope another small nod. “Alright… but… no… don’t give me a week.” He looks back up at her again. “I’ll only talk myself out of it. I’ll… I’ll go because I want to… because… I know I need to. Just… can we do it maybe like tomorrow?”

Little bit

Katie rolls her eyes and looks to Jason with a smile.

I think those two are worse than us women.

Turning back to scout everything once again Katie trys to consintrate as the other two continue to go back and forth. Feeling Ryder swat her leg and thinking best of him going back alone Katie turns to look over her shoulder at him.

"Do you really think its a good idea to go back by yourself because I dont. So come back over here and sit down before YOU blow our cover. Unless this killer over here really did scair you away than you can SIT there."

Katie wasnt sure why but the thought of Ryder going back to the cabin alone made her feel uneasy and she just did not like the feeling at all. Highting her own sences just a little Katie trys to keep more alart scaning the area around them and keeping on high alart.

Hope smiles. She did want what was best for Scott and she wanted to help him try to be able to function again as a human for his own sake.

"Its your choise Scott and I want you to go because you want to go. So take all week to think about it and decied. We will only be out for how ever long you want to be out. Its all up to you, we do it on your tearms."

Hope ment that. She wanted to do this for Scott, and letting him make the desitions himself showing him he did still have his own free will.