O.O

Ryder looks up as Katie approaches, glad that she'd showed up on her own. He didn't mind being there for Laura, even if he didn't really know her. But even so, he thought it even better if Katie was there too.

Letting Katie take over, he stands up and goes to clean up the rest of the broken glass, and sop up the remaining tea. It takes him a little while, but he winds up getting some soap and working on the spot to make sure it doesn't even stain the carpet.

Hearing Katie and feeling her arm around her, Laura just leans onto her younger friend's shoulder. "Oh, Katie," she whimpers. "I feel so messed up. I just... I don't know what to do, and I just keep making things worse..." Her sobs quiet some, but the tears still flow. She hadn't yet come to terms with what Bryce had done to her, making this whole thing even worse. She wanted to just charge through her emotions and conquer it all like she always did... but this time she couldn't.

"I have to testify in court... and I just feel like I should have been stronger... and now Nate and I... I don't even know if there is a Nate and I anymore." She sniffs, trying to take deep breaths to calm herself. "He must hate me... I know I would... everything I've put him through."

Henry comes to Ryder, sniffing the wet spot on the floor, then looking back over to his mistress. Holding his tail high, he trots to the couch and jumps up on Katie's lap so he can be close to both women, and starts to purr as if offering his own comfort.

Ryder cocks his head, watching the scene for a moment. Something stirred in his heart. It was more than compassion. It was a longing. He'd had friends. But none close. He'd had a family. But it had been too quickly taken away. The people here... at TJY, and their friends... they were all so different. It was like one big family.

Sighing, he gets up and heads down the hall, disappearing. About ten minutes later, he comes back, and squats down next to the couch by Katie. "Hey," he mentions quietly. "Best thing for her is to relax and get some sleep. I've got the hot water running in the tub - it'd do her good."


Axel is quiet, and though feeling as though he might do something wrong, he doesn't want to foul up another opportunity. He liked Jess... maybe more than he'd admit to anyone else. He'd been intrigued with her from the very beginning. But that intrigue had turned to something more. He cared about her... and while he was satisfied with their simple friendship... if he didn't take a step for more... a step towards something that he had always thought would be out of his reach... a step towards something that his heart really did want... he might lose her to someone else. And while they could still be friends, he didn't like that thought. If he didn't keep her around and keep her close, he'd be losing something he'd learned to view as precious.

Slowly, he moves to wrap one arm around her waist, the other hand still on her face. "Good," he whispers.

Leaning in, he tilts his head just a little, before letting his lips meet her own, every so lightly. For him, the feeling is like an electrical shock, running through his entire system. Pulling back just a little, Axel looks in Jess' eyes, wondering if it was just him, or if he really was being silly. But having her this close, in his arms.... it was a feeling he wouldn't have traded for anything.

A small smile creeps into the corner of his mouth. "This time I can't fall to my death," he whispers. "But even if that was the consequence... I think it would be worth it."

Returning to her lips, he kisses her once more, but this time with more confidence, letting it linger... letting it's warmth stay with him. The taste was sweet, the feeling irreplaceable.

Sticking

Sitting up straght in her bed Katie's ears catch sound to the breaking glass. It could of just been Ryder but it could be something alse as well. If something was wrong Katie would never forgive herself for not getting up to check.

Throwing on one of her hoodies Katie slowly opens the door from her room her gun at her said as she squints out into the light. Slowly emerging Katie makes her way to where she hurd the nosie coming from her ears picking up on a soft crying.

Looking into the living room and seeing Ryder and Laura Katie's is put at ease a little knowing it was not a burgler. Though she was happy to see her friend, why was Laura here now she though Con had said she would be staying away for a little while now.

Coming in farther Katie sinks down on the couch next to Laura and gentily puts her arm around her friend. She didnt need to say anything, she new Laura was having a hard time. She just wanted to be there for her friend so she new she was not alone.

Continuing to look for Axel's wallet Jess cant help the laugh that escapes her lips at the thought of the crickets.

"You know thats a very funny mentil image right?"

As Axel finds his wallet Jess stands and shakes her head. How silly she felt but how good at the same time.

Heading back the way they came Jess stands a little close to Axel. Feeling his hand slowly slip into her, her finger tighten slightly as she looks to him giving a smile. It was warm and the feeling felt, so differnt but she liked it, and it didnt cause any fear.

Finally getting back to the house Jess turns to Axel hearing his words. Feeling the heat come to her face Jess closes her eyes for a moment feeling Axel's hand on her face.

"Your a pretty special rainbow Axel. I have a feeling I will be sticking around."

Looking deep into Axel's eyes Jess heart starts to race as she can feel her own hands start to get a bit clammy, she wasnt scaired only nervouse. Giving a small nod she steps just a little bit closer to Axel.

"Yes, I...I'd like that."

Bringing her hand up she places it on Axel's shoulder as the other finds its way around him, her emotions running, her feelings, this feel was differnt, and it was good. With antisapation jess waited for Axel to lean closer when he was ready.

Morning is coming...

Dan and Paula exchange glances as Nate leaves the house. Paula's eyes go slightly wide. "What was that all about?"

"I... don't know. Con said things weren't great between those two though."


Laura watches helplessly as Nate leaves. It felt like this was all her fault. When would she learn to just stay away from people so she wouldn't hurt them? When would she learn to just not get involved so she didn't have to say no, and didn't have to look into eyes like Nate's that just broke her heart?

Letting out a cry of frustration, she flops down onto the back porch steps to lean back against the railing. She turns off the tears, not wanting to continue feeling so out of control. She had never felt lower in her life.

"Laura?"

She doesn't move, but lets her aunt come and sit next to her. "He left?"

"Yes." Paula reaches over to rub Laura's back lovingly. "You okay?"

Laura forces out a sorry laugh. "I'm always okay."

"You don't look it." Paula sighs. "You know it's okay to cry."

"I know." Laura looks down. "But I don't want to. I just want to go home."

"Are you sure?"

"Yeah..." Laura nods. "Bryce is gone so... there's nothing for me to worry about, and Katie is there, so I know I'm safe. I don't mean to be ungrateful to you and Uncle Dan."

"Oh, we don't think you are." Paula gives Laura's shoulders a squeeze. "I know, you'd just rather be in your own house and closer to your brother too."

Laura nods again. "I know it's getting late, but..."

"I'll help you." Paula smiles. "Come on."

...It's past midnight, and the driveway is dark. Laura shuts off her car and glances around the yard. The several hour drive had only proven to make her spirits worse. All she wanted was to crawl into bed. The darkness scared her... but she was too angry at that fear to let it get the best of her.

She exits her car with confidence, knowing that her gun was loaded. Grabbing her bag from the back seat, she heads up the porch and finds her key to let herself in. Katie wasn't expecting her, so hopefully she wouldn't wake up from the noise.

Laura lets her bag drop behind the couch, then goes to the kitchen to get something to drink. Odd. The light was on. Maybe Katie was still up after all.

But reaching the kitchen, her eyes widen in shock, seeing a man at the sink with a glass of water. If someone had told her that a man was here, it had been lost in the chaos. But she was in no mood to take chances.

Ryder almost chokes on his water as he turns around to face a blonde woman with a gun drawn. "Whoa, easy, easy." He sets his glass down and puts his hands in the air. "I belong here."

"Who are you?" Laura hisses.

"Ryder. I came back with the group from Australia. Katie let me sack out here for a while." Ryder's heart pounded in his chest, afraid for his own life at this point, though he remained calm. "You must be Laura... right?"

Laura's eyes narrow. She vaguely remembered someone telling her that someone was staying here, but was this guy really telling the truth?

Ryder offers a small smile. "Would a thief stop to get a drink in the kitchen?"

Laura starts to lower her gun. "I suppose not."

"Naw... I'm sorry I scared you. But really... call Katie if you need to. She just went to bed a bit ago."

Right then, Henry decides to enter in on the fun, and starts to weave in and out of Ryder's legs, purring loudly at his new friend.

Laura sees her cat's behavior and now knows for sure that this guy is alright. Otherwise Henry wouldn't bt acting so friendly. "Okay," she relents, withdrawing her gun. "I apologize." She was jumpy. She wasn't going to take risks with any strange guy. But her gut had yet to be wrong, and this guy was telling the truth, no matter how strange it seemed.

"No need." Ryder studies Laura's face. It never ceased to disgust him, how someone could hurt a woman like that, and it pained him to see anyone in this position. "We didn't know when you'd be back."

"Yeah... well, neither did I." Laura sighs and goes to the refrigerator, looking for some iced tea. She had a headache, and now knowing Ryder was on the up and up, she really didn't care if he was there or not. It still seemed a bit odd to her, but she was too tired to think about it. People showed up here all the time. Whatever. If Henry thought this guy was okay, then she'd just trust that, and the name did ring a bell. Not to mention, Katie would never let an intruder get this far.

One would think that Laura would be a whole lot more hesitant around a male stranger right now, but for some reason, her mind seemed to have bypassed the fear mechanism, too tired of being afraid. She was in no-nonsense mode, with forced confidence to get her through. her mind was foggy enough the way it was - she didn't want to clutter it with more information.

Laura gets her tea and leans back against the counter, sipping it slowly. Finally she moves to the living room, wandering past the wall of photos. Looking over them, her eyes land on several recent additions that had Nate's smiling face. Tears suddenly spring into her eyes, even though she fought hard to control them. But the lump rising in her throat seemed more determined than she, now that she was in the safe confines of home.

Ryder watches from a distance, then approaches slowly. He'd been getting ready to go to bed, but he hardly wanted to just flop down on the couch now, when Laura was still up. "You alright?" he asks quietly.

Laura swallows hard and just takes another sip of her tea. But her hands had started to shake, and her grip was lost. The glass falls out of her hand, bouncing off the wall. It breaks, sending glass into a scattered mess, mixed with the tea that starts to immediately soak into the carpet.

Laura lets out a little wail and leans down quickly to clean it up. She just wasn't thinking straight though, and she reaches in too hastily, slicing her palm on a piece of glass. "Oh come on," she grumbles. But the wound had done its damage. A cut normally wouldn't bother her so much, but on a night like to night, she couldn't even predict her own reactions with the way her emotions were bouncing all over the place. Tears start to roll down her face, not so much from the cut, but from the inner wounds that she was trying to pretend didn't exist.

Ryder is quick to grab a couple towels from the kitchen - one for the mess and one for Laura's hand. "Easy does it," he prompts gently as he kneels next to her. "Did it get you bad?"

Laura shakes her head, though she can't get the tears to stop. All the bottled-up emotions that she'd kept inside since Bryce's attack were suddenly racing towards the surface, taking advantage of the opportunity when her wall had been lowered just enough.

"Got you good enough though, ay?" Ryder reaches over to take her hand.

Feeling his touch, Laura jumps back, suddenly thrown back into her pool of vulnerability.

"Hey, hey," Ryder soothes. "I'm not going to hurt you." His eyes begged her to trust him. He knew that while this was a very strong woman in front of him, everyone had their breaking point, and no matter what, at traumatic experience like she'd gone through was just that - traumatic. "I promise."

Maybe it was that she wasn't thinking straight. Maybe it was that Ryder seemed nice. Maybe it was that God knew Laura needed help. No matter the cause, she relents, giving Ryder her hand.

"There we are." Ryder wipes away some of the blood, then wraps the thin towel around her hand. "Put some pressure on that - it's not too deep." He turns to mop up the spilled drink, carefully picking up the pieces of glass.

The tears don't stop. "It hurts," Laura wimpers.

"I know. We should go wash it out."

"No, not that." Laura's voice wavers and she sniffs. "Inside. Everything. It just... hurts."

Ryder pauses and just looks at her, his true heart of compassion showing through. He did have a soft spot somewhere, and right now it was being touched. "I bet it does," he replies quietly. "But you got a lot of friends to help you out, right? Big brother... boyfriend... friends like Katie."

Laura chokes on a sob. "If I don't push all of them away first."

"Hey now..." Ryder leaves the mess for now and moves to sit next to her, their backs against the wall. "You got a right to be upset, ya know? They'll understand."

"Not Nate," she wimpers.

"Your boyfriend?"

Laura nods and draws in a shaky breath. "I broke up with him. That's how I thank him for wanting to take care of me. How horrible is that?" She wipes her eyes with the back of her hand, but the tears don't stop.

Ryder lifts his eyebrows. That must have hurt on both sides. "You don't think he'd understand that you're just going through a tough time?"

Laura shakes her head. "I've been terrible to him... ever since the beginning. I just... I get so scared."

"That he'll hurt you?"

"I don't know." Laura sniffs again, feeling like a blubbering idiot. She didn't even know why she was telling Ryder this. "No... no, he wouldn't ever hurt me."

"So what then?"

"I don't know." Breaking down, Laura burys her face in her hands, shaking as she sobs.

"Aw, hey now... take it easy." Ryder is totally out of his element, he didn't know what to do, and he didn't know how well he'd be received. But he couldn't just do nothing. He could go get Katie, but he hated to walk away like he didn't care.

Finally, he slips an arm around Laura's shoulders. "It's alright," he speaks quietly. "It'll all be alright. Morning is coming."


Axel grins as he fishes through the tall grass. "Novelty. Save the expired coupon for fifty ears when Taco Town is long gone, and it'll be worth money."

Laughing at his own dry humor, he shakes his head. "I don't know. There's no money in there to speak of, so I have to generate interest in the search with something."

It takes a few minutes, but Axel's hands finally find his wallet. "Aha!" He holds it up. "Got it. Now lets get out of here. I got crickets trying to crawl up my pantleg."

Standing up, he helps Jess up too and heads back to the road. Heaving a sigh, he takes one last look around. "Well... that's that then, I guess." Taking route back the way they come, the walk is the same. But this time, Axel lets his hand slip into Jess' to hold until they get back to the house.

Stepping up on the porch, Axel turns to Jess before opening the door. "Thanks, Jess..." He reaches out to tuck a strand of hair behind her ear. "You, um... you mean a lot to me, ya know that? Not many people would have given me the time of day after I'd run away. I just hope that..."

He stops, feeling the heat in his face again as he draws a little closer. "...that you stick around 'cause I need a good thunderstorm to keep me in line."

His hand moves to cradle the side of her face, his thumb mapping out the gentle curves. His eyes meet hers, his stare as deep as ever. "May I?" he whispers.

Crack

Feeling the sting from Laura's words Nate stops again. Why...why was this happing. His emotions were going up and down up and down.

The cracks grow bigger.

Go than stay, Nate was so confused and he didnt understand. Why did it have to be so hard. Turning around all the way the tears flood over in Nate's eyes as he cant hold them in. It was to much emotion to hold in for one person, even a strong person like Nate.

"Laura, you know darn well that I dont think your worthless, and I know you feel rotten at the moment. I understand that completely, but I dont know how to change that for you because you wont let me."

Nate was frustrated and he hurt. His heart being ripped in two. He wanted to say, but he new he should go. He wanted to wrap his arms around Laura but he new he shouldnt.

And the cracks grow.

"I walk away because I dont want to make you feel like crap and I know you need your space. I am walking away because I do understand your hurting, and you need time."

Nate takes in a sigh and lets his breath out again. His eyes showed no anger but only sadness.

"I can understand so much Laura but I cant just stand and let you throw daggers at me. I...dont feel sorry for myself, and I dont look at you like a kid. I see a woman infront of me that is hurting so much but wont let me help. I cant put myself through the torcher of just standing here and not being able to do anything, space, you want space and thats what I am giving you because I cant do anything alse."

Turning once again Nate continues to the house at a faster pace now and dosnt stop again this time as he move faster. For his own good and for Laura's he had to go even though it was the hardest thing in the world.

Disapearing inside Nate slowly makes his way into the kitchen. The tears are still stricken on his face but for now they have stoped.

Giving a small nod to Paula and Dan Nate stops but for a moment.

"Thank you very much for letting me speak with Laura."

Continuing through the kitchen and out the front door Nate gets into his car and starts it only to sit in the drive way for a moment longer. The tears forming in his eyes again as he rested his head on the stearing wheel. Now that he was alone they came with more force one after another.

Giving another laugh and shaking her head Jess slowly starts to decent the tree with Axel as he helps her down.

"I have to tell ya it was nice being in he tree but after you almost falling its good to have my feet back on the ground as well."

Brushing herself off just a little Jess moves a little ways away and drops to her hands and knees starting to look for the wallet.

"So what would be the point of an expired coupon if its no good?"

Jess laughs again as she continues to move and look for the wallet. The grass was thick and it was so dark out. she almost felt like this was looking for a pin in a hay stack.

Repeat

Finally, the tears start to sting Laura's eyes. She knew Nate's words were true. She knew it. She knew it in her heart. She knew what she really wanted. Why were things so complicated? Why did she feel so messed up? Why couldn't she just make up her mind?

"Don't walk away!" She yells at him, the frustration boiling over. Her fists ball at her sides as the first tear runs down her cheek. The first tear since this whole fiasco had started. The first sign of emotions since she had been attacked.

"Why can't you understand how I feel?! Why can't you try to understand how hard this thing is for me? Why can't you understand that I feel like the most worthless, unworthy person on the planet right now?! Why do you have to make me feel like crap for telling you I need space?"

Her lower lip starts to quiver. She didn't know what she was saying. One second she wanted Nate to leave, the next she didn't. Back and forth, back and forth, up and down. "Do you think I've changed so much, that you need to treat me with kid gloves?! Quit feeling sorry for yourself and just... just... stop it!"


"Aw, thanks." Axel smirks at Jess' teasing, though the humor is in his eyes. Settled back on the branch, he clears his throat. "Um, yeah... let's not have a repeat, or I'm liable to go all the way the next time."

While he meant falling all the way to the ground, he suddenly realizes that what he said could have been applied to the attempted kiss, and his eyes widen. He can't even look at Jess after that one, his face filling with heat once again.

"How about we just climb down and look for that wallet, hmm?" He rolls his eyes and carefully lowers himself to another branch, helping Jess down with him. Within minutes, they're back on the ground again, all in once piece.

"Alright..." Axel sets his hands on his hips and glances around the tall, dark grass. "I have no idea where to start."

He drops to his hands and knees, starting to look for his wallet. "First one to find it gets to keep the expired coupon for Taco Town," he announces.

True

Hearing Laura behind him Nate stops hanging his head for a moment. The night breeze was warm but aganst Nate's skin it felt cold.

What did Laura want from him or want him to do. She had made up her mind and had made her deistion. There was nothing he could say nothing he could differnt now to make her change that.

Finally looking over his shoulder at Laura he calls to her.

"Because thats what true love is. Thats how you know your ment to be with someone, because life isnt complete without that person there. That is how you know its true love and not just a messed up feeling Laura. Love endures all and has no limit."

Turning his head back around Nate continues his rout back to the house. His emotions still raging and his eyes still wet. What alse could he do?

Closing her eyes as Axel starts to come closer again Jess heart races, but the moment dosnt last long as it is shatter by Axel falling backwards. Quickly being replaces by him maybe falling.

Seeing that his lags have been wrapped around the tree and is now having upside down Jess cant help the small laugh the escaped her lips.

"You have to addmit now that you know your not gonna die, its a little but funny."

Jess holds up her fingers to thow a little space between them. Than shaking her head she leans over Axel a little grabbing his hand to help him up. Making sure he is safly on the branch again Jess gives another chuckel her eyes lighting up with laughter.

"How about we not do that again? I just got you back today, I dont want to have to lose you again!"

Tearless Emotions

Axel's eyes close for just a moment, unable to help but enjoy Jess' closeness as her lips brush his cheek. Looking back at her he shakes his head slowly. "Quit thanking me, Jess," he says quietly. "I'm only glad that whatever it is I do, makes you feel good. 'Cause I'd hate to see the embers die, now that I've seen that flame behind your eyes."

A small smile surfaces and he leans in a little closer, his forehead almost touching hers. A gentle breeze rustles the leaves around them, and the stars shine their lullaby. Axel's eyes reflect the depth of space itself, a vast ocean of feelings and thoughts that would take a lifetime to discover and understand.

Axel's breath slides across Jess's skin and his heart pounds even faster. He knew he would be allowed, but still he hesitates, unsure how this should work. Just as his lips begin to touch hers though, something happens.

Axel's hand slips on the rough bark, and suddenly, he's off balance. Teetering on the branch, his legs tense to try and balance himself back out again, but it's too late. Before he knows it, he has fallen backward off the branch.

Flailing arms do no good, but somehow he manages to catch himself with his legs, and winds up hanging upside down, his legs gripping the limb tightly as if he were swinging from a trapeze.

Out of breath, Axel blinks and looks up at Jess, his eyes wide. "Well now..." He clears his throat. "This is exciting." His wallet suddenly slips from his back pocket and plummets to the dark ground below. He groans. "I guess maybe I deserved this."

Struggling, he can't quite bring himself up all the way onto the branch again, and he holds out his hand. "A little help for a fallen rainbow?"


Seeing the tears in Nate's eyes is like a dagger being driven into Laura's soul. She looks up at him, helpless and hurting, not knowing what to do, or how to fix this whole big mess. She just wanted to feel good again... she just wanted to know where she belonged and who she was, and stop questioning herself. She just...

Laura looks up quickly as Nate starts to walk away. His parting words sting like nothing else. "Nate, no."

She stands up, her mind and heart pulled in two completely different directions. "I didn't... I mean... please just..."

Totally frustrated with herself, the irritation overrides the sorrow. Spying the ax on the ground, she picks it up, gripping the handle tightly and glaring at it. Giving a yell, she turns around and hurls it at the wood pile. It lands squarely into a log, splitting it down the middle. She was so hurt by recent events. She was so angry. She was so scared. Her emotions were off the charts every whichway, and she didn't know how to control them.

Spinning back around, Laura glares at Nate on route to the house. "Why do you do this to me?! I want to hate you and I can't! I want to push you away and all I can do is think about you! I want to let you go so you can live without my own hassles, and all I can do is think about how much I love you! Why do I have to be so stuck, Nate?! Why?!!"

No weakness

Tighting her own fingers around Axel's Jess listens to what he had to say. Jess loved taking in his words and just listing to them. Each one held a meaning of its own, each tone had a new emotion in it.

Getting hung up on Axel's sentince about the rainbow coming on its own she stops and thinks. What Axel said made sence in more than one why. Why rush anything in time when it was right it would come to be itself.

Scooting a little closer to Axel Jess leans in and gives him a soft kiss to the cheek. Before pulling away just a little and lookin deep into Axel's eyes. There was a differance between Axel and Carson a differnt feeling she felt. This one seemed, almost like it was more real than the other. It was a frighting feeling, but exciting at the same time.

"Thank you Axel. You make me feel so good you know that and I just....thank you."

Jess continues to look Axel in the eyes as her face still stayed close to his the smile on her lips, and the twinkle in her eye.

Looking down at Laura's hand it almost feels like someone has taken a sleghammer to his heart. Everything he felt, his reason for being here was thrown aside and even now Laura had turned him away.

"You dont always have to do things by yourself. There is no weakness in asking for help."

Feeling the tears well up in his eyes Nate stands letting Laura's hand slip from him. She was letting him go, she had broken up with him and that thought alone braught more tears to Nate's eyes.

Turning back to Laura the tears that feel from Nate's eyes glissen in the moonlight. Bringing a hand to the side of her face Nate aims with persition at running his finger gentil along her skin missing the cuts she had. Trying to give a smile Nate know it fales but trys anyways maybe to make his ownself feel better.

"I love you to Laura more than anyone I ever have before."

Dropping his hand from her face Nate lets out a small sigh trying to choak back the tears.

"I'm sorry I came and bothered you after you said you didnt want to see me. I just...wanted to make sure you were ok."

His voice quivering just a little Nate turns and makes his way back the path he had come placing his hands in his pockets. He'd go back to the house and say goodbye and thank you to Paula and Dan than he would leave. He did not belong here not anymore.

All on its own

Axel's heart gives a little start as Jess' hand cradles the side of his face. It was warmer and softer than he'd expected. He can feel the heat coming to his cheeks, and he's glad that it's dark. He might be confident in many many areas, but this was not one of them. This... right here... this was all new to him.

He swallows hard, wondering if he liked or hated it that his pulse had started to race. His voice comes out quieter, almost a whisper as if he's afraid he will say the wrong thing and shatter the moment.

"It's impossible for a rainbow to be too far from the storm. It's the storm itself that provided the way for the rainbow to shine to begin with..."

Without looking down, Axel shifts his hand so his fingers curl around Jess'. "A rainbow can't be caught any easier than the storm can be tamed. It's a wild animal, resisting capture. But feed it lightning, give it the thunder and bring the rains, and it will come... the rainbow will come all on its own."


Laura's gaze wanders everywhere but Nate's eyes, and she paces just a little. Finally though, she stops, and her focus lands on his stare. Those gentle eyes looked back at her with all the love and hope she'd ever seen. Never had she thought that a man could look at her the way he did.

"Oh, Nate." A half a smile is forced to the surface. Tears wanted to come, but she held them back, making her eyes glisten. She reaches up with her hand to run along the side of Nate's face. "I know I've made you feel left out. Even if I haven't acted like it, you have... become such an important part of my life."

Something close to a laugh comes out. "Even after all the trouble I gave you in the beginning. You stuck it out, and... I've always been impressed with that. You're not like other men I know. Your heart is so big and... and I can't even understand how you love someone like me. But I know you do. And... and I love you too."

Laura swallows hard and she finally sits back down, turning her head to bravely look at him as he continues. "But... I need to feel a whole lot more than just love right now. I've... I've been broken and I don't know how to fix it. I've been scared and I don't know where to find my confidence again. I... I just don't know who I am anymore, Nate, and..."

Searching Nate's eyes, she knows that with every word she spoke, and every second that passed, she was breaking just a little more of his heart. Reaching over, she takes his hands in hers. "I need to find myself again... I need to figure out who I am again and where I belong and what my purpose is again. And... I need to do that... on my own."

If she hadn't been so determined, an onslaught of tears surly would have come. She had no idea what this choice would mean. She had no idea how it would affect the future, good or bad. She had no idea if the paths ran parallel to meet up again, or if they went in opposite directions.

Laura looks down again. "I do love you, Nate," she says quietly. "But if... if you want to move on, I understand. I just... I don't know when I'll be ready to... to marry you. And... it's not fair, me keeping you waiting."

Catch a Rainbow

Feeling a bit of color that comes to her face Jess dosnt take her eyes from Axel's. Feeling the emotions inside of her cluster Jess is not sure how she would describe how she felt but it was there non the less and the comfrot her felt was nice. Something about Axel just something she had taken to and had grown to form a feeling she wasnt quite sure of. The smile on Jess face could lite up a dark room the moon just reflecting what was already there.

"To some I guess storms are amazing to look at, but to me its the rainbow after the storm that captured my gaze..."

Bringing her other hand up Jess brushes a peace of stray hair from Axel's forhead as her hand gently cubs his face her thumb running along his jaw bone.

Axel always made her feel good and dispite the scares, and the cuts, the bruses that remainded on her it was almost as if when she was with him they were gone. He never took not to them, or pointed them out like so many other people would. To Axel Jess was normal.

But was she good enough for someone as wonderful as him? Did she deserve this happyness she felt. Her fear is what kept her back from saying what she truly felt.

"... But how do you catch a rainbow that is so far out of reach for the likes of a lowly storm."

Staying seated Nate looks to Laura his eyes held a sadness. Some might interpertie as a disapointment or even a longing for something that was missing. But to Nate it was a feeling inside that couldnt be discribed, it was an emotion that made him want to cry even though he wasnt sure why.

"I'd...wish you would talk to me Laura. Its what I am here for. I dont want to pretend everything is ok when its not."

Nate couldnt help the emotion that was in his voice. He was so tired, and sad, maybe even a little bit of depression was thrown in there. He felt so many things at once it was hard to disypher them all.

"I just wish you woul let me be there for you. I dont like being on the outside and having to look in. I know you deserve your personal space and thats alright I just wish..."

Nate's words trail off as he moves his shoe through the grass the dim light reflecting off the blades. He wanted to say more, but he didnt want to say more. He wanted Laura to know how he felt but he didnt want to step over the line. Nate didnt know how far to go and how much to hold back. He was just so confused.

Unspoken

"Yeah, I'm always trying to find good hiding places, or lookout points," Axel admits. "Every once in a while I happen on a view that really is amazing."

Feeling Jess' hand on his, he instinctively realizes that something is different about this time. It wasn't his sore hand, and she wasn't trying to help... Turning his head, he catches her eye. A look was in her stare that hadn't been before. His gaze pierces her own as he tries to figure her out.

"I think I might have just found another one."


Laura looks down and gives a little nod. "I'm okay." She lifts her eyes to Nate again. "It's just... yeah." A short laugh surfaces. "I told Con I didn't want to see anybody 'cause I don't know... I just needed time to think... to clear my head."

She pauses again, swallowing hard. "Look... I don't know if now is a good time or not... After all the trouble you went through to get here, I'd rather just let the hard stuff go for now."

Laura stands up again, fidgeting with her gloves. It was obvious that there was a whole lot she wanted to say, but wasn't.

Brush

Getting to the outside of town Jess cant help but be amazed. Following Axel Jess gladly lets him take the lead out of town not knowing where they were going.. Everything was so amazing she couldnt help but look in aw.

Coming to the tree and just watching Axel climb it Jess cant help the smile that makes its way to her face. Taking Axel hand Jess climbs the tree with him.

For a moment Jess felt young again. There were times in her young life when she would forget all her cares and feel free. This reminded her of that and she liked it.

Fiding a comfortable spot next to Axel Jess swings her legs just a little. Looking out over the land Jess feels a contentness settle over her.

"Oh Axel this is amazing. Its like nothing I have even seen before."

As the sit is taken in the moonlight shines through the banches casting its light onto Jess making her eyes sparkle even more as the smile like non other remainds on her face. Bringing her hand down to rest it on the tree branch and give her more stability Jess hand goes ontop of Axel's. Looking down at it for a moment Jess dosnt move her hand. Finally looks up again she smiles at Axel as the strange flutter comes into her heart again.

Still sitting and leaning over Nate smiles. He new Laura must be jumpy and he didnt blam her one bit.

"I startled you I am sorry for that. Was trying not to but I new there really was no way around that."

Finally starting Nate turns to Laura searousness eched on her face.

"I came to see you."

Nate lets out a small sigh.

"I wanted to make sure you were ok with my own eyes. Its important to me to know you will be alright. Just...wanted to make sure."

Tree

Axel cocks his head a little, finding Jess' choice interesting. Even though she'd said that she trusted him despite his past record, this proved it, and it made him feel good.

"Alright. Dirt road it is then."

Taking the lead once more, Axel heads out of town. They ascend a small hill where the road becomes dirt, then once over the other side, the town is simply hidden from view. But as such, Axel had been right - it felt as though they were out in the middle of nowhere.

Walking just a ways farther, Axel stops where there is a big oak tree that grew up beside the road, it's branches hanging over the way. "I used to come here to think," he muses. "I did that a lot at one time... before Cryptic came along. It was always quiet out here... not many people come this way out of town. But..."

He looks to Jess, a small smile creasing his lips. It was almost sly, but not quite. "...you really can't get the full effect of the view until you see things the way I did."

Walking over to the tree, he finds the lowest branch and starts to climb up to the next nearest that was a long, sturdy limb. It was a little more difficult than anticipated with a numb hand, but he makes it, then offers Jess a hand up. Still grinning, he helps her up, then climbs two branches higher. One would think he was crazy to do it in the dark, but even after a year, he knew right where to put his feet. Helping Jess up again, he finally sits, scooting over just far enough so Jess can sit next to him, their legs dangling off the sturdy limb. And from there, the view was amazing.

Up above through the branches, the moon and stars shone brightly, a million little lights, twinkling in the clear sky. Across the land one could see the lights of nearby cities, and the darkness of forests where a shimmering river ran through.

Axel takes a deep breath of the fresh air. "A little bit of heaven," he muses quietly.


Still shocked by what she'd done, Laura can't even laugh, though something deep down wanted to. She sits down next to Nate and takes off her gloves. "I'm sorry," she apologizes again. "Mm... jumpy I guess."

Pausing, she looks down at her hands. "So what... why did you come?"

Trust

Walking with Axel in the fresh air feels nice. It had been a long time since she had just felt walked with out a destination.

Not even relizing how long they had been walking Jess wouldnt mind walk for miles more. It felt good, the fresh air felt even better.

Being given the three choises Jess thinks them over carfuly. Each one in her own mind meaning something differnt.

" I think, I'd like to take the dirt road and be in the middle of no where. I've never seen the stars and moon before."

Jess gives a smile to Axel. She trusted him whole heatedly, and had no fear that he would try to hurt her.

Not given enough time to react Nate is hit and drops to his knees holding his stomach. Silent for a moment he trys to catch his breath as the pain courses through his body and legs. Finally looking up at Laura with tears in his eyes he trys to smile at her.

"Well, I am glad to see you too."

Giving a cough Nate stands again though he is a little shaky. Going to sit down on a large stump he continues to try and catching his breath. Looking up at Laura again he can see the remnints on her face of what Bryace had done, once again thinking he had taken it to easy on the man who hurt his love.

"Remind me to stand farther back from now on so you can reach me eh?"

Reflexes

With a faint smile, Axel stands up too, and leads the way back upstairs. Telling Jess he'll be right back, he takes to the upstairs two steps at a time reemerging a few short minutes later with his sneakers on, and a hoodie thrown over his t-shirt.

Glancing into the living room, he sees that Derek and Gina had joined the kids in front of the tv. He catches Derek's eye and motions that they're stepping out, and Derek returns a short wave. He wouldn't lock the door until after they'd gotten back.

Axel opens the door for Jess so she can go out first, and within minutes, they're walking the sidewalk through the crisp night air. It was much cooler here than in Nevada, but the air had a refreshing feel to it. Though spring was around the corner, it still got a bit nippy at night.

Axel keeps the pace fairly slow, his hands tucked into his pockets. "It's been a while since I've walked this neighborhood," he mentions. "I used to all the time..."

Walking to the end of the second block, he stops and points. "There's a park up there a ways if you're interested. Or there's an all-night coffee shop the opposite way. Or..." He points straight ahead. "Town ends on a pretty dirt road that makes you feel like you're out in the middle of nowhere."


Laura had not even heard anyone come up behind her. She is so engrossed in taking her frustrations out on the woodpile that it didn't matter whose voice it is. Before it can even register in her mind, she is taken totally off guard.

Reflexes kick in. Without even thinking, she whirls around, not looking before she twirls the ax around and swings. The handle hits Nate squarely in the stomach before being turned again, the blunt side of the head coming up right where it counts.

Seeing Nate go down to his knees, Laura gasps, dropping the ax and putting a hand over her mouth. "Oh, Nate!" She kneels next to him and puts a hand to his shoulder. "I'm so sorry."

Only now in the dim light can the bruises on her face be seen, and the split lip that was slowly healing.

"Are you okay?" Worry courses through her eyes, and she feels stupid for having reacted so quickly.

As ever

Smiling back at Axel Jess cant help a flutter that happens in the bit of her stomach and the pitter of her heart. Looking down for a moment at Axel's fingers intertwined with her own before looking up at Axel again.

Moving her legs to stand Jess smiles still holding Axel's hand.

"A walk sounds great."

Giving a nod and returning the handshake to Paula Nate smiles and tells them thank you before going out the back door. From the pourch Nate can make out Laura's form by the wood pile. For a moment he just stands there before making his way over.

Drawing closer Nate stops again and just watches her for a moment. A new fear surfacing. What if she still didnt want to see Nate and turned him away? Nate didnt know if once he was there next to her he would be able to leave if asked without making things worse. Swallowing his own fear Nate makes his feet move on, he had to. He had come this far and even if Laura turned him away he just wanted to make sure she was ok. Thats all he wanted.

Standing back to keep enough room that Laura didnt feel as though she was crowded Nate gives a smile as he puts his hands in his pockets. He didnt want to startle Laura be he felt as though it might be inevitable.

"You know, even with the sweat and dirt from working so hard you still look as beautiful as ever."

Ax

Axel moves his fingers to curl around Jess' hand, stopping her from rubbing for a moment. "Jess..." He shakes his head. "No one is going to make you stay at a hotel. If you try, you're going to insult this family..."

He can't help a small smile. "...and me."

His eyes roam to the stairs, his nightly habit kicking in. "You wouldn't want to go for a walk, would you?"


Dan opens the door slowly, the look on his face one of caution. But hearing who this man is, a small smile forms. "Hi, Nate, nice to finally meet you. We've heard a lot about you. Yes, Laura's here, please come in." He opens the door wider for Nate to enter.

A few of the grandkids are in the living room watching a movie before their parents come to pick them up, and they turn around to eye Nate curiously, but none get up.

Dan leads Nate through to the kitchen where Paula is washing dishes. She turns around, a warm smile coming to her face. "Well, you must be Nate." She dries her hands and approaches to offer her own handshake. "Welcome."

Dan gives his wife a nod. "He'd like to see Laura."

Paula's eyes fill with a sadness. "She's been out back for several hours now." She looks to Nate with sympathy. "She wouldn't eat supper... said she wanted to blow off some steam, so she went for the wood pile. You can find her out there." She gestures to the back door.

Dan gives Nate a look of approval. "If you need anything, let us know." He opens the back door for him.


Laura takes another swing, the ax coming down hard into its target, splitting the piece of wood in half. The loud chop echoes through the dim yard. She only pauses a moment to wipe her brow with the leather glove on her hand before aiming and swinging again.

Her hair is sweaty, hanging down the sides of her face after escaping the rubber band that was meant to hold it back. One of Dan's flannel shirts hangs loosely over her t-shirt, the sleeves having long since been rolled up as the task had made her warm.

Another swing. Another small log split. Another frustrated yell. The muscles in her arms ache, but she doesn't stop. Anger glistens in her eyes.

The evening was darkening slowly, the sky clear and hanging onto the last light of dusk. A cool misty haze envelopes the yard, hiding most anything else from view. Laura didn't mind. She felt more alone this way. And that's why she'd come out here.

Her back to the house, she doesn't see the door open, and doesn't hear anyone approaching.

An angry yell comes forth along with another swing. The log doesn't split. Another chop follows, and another and another until the stubborn wood finally breaks in half. Laura stops to catch her breath, bending over as her heart raced from the exercise. Her jeans were damp and dirty, proving she'd been out here for hours already. She was tired... so tired. But she didn't want to sleep. She wanted to kill this terror inside of her. She wanted to destroy the weakness she felt.

Another log. Another chop. The ax's blade is driven down into the wood fibers.

Impose

Following the directions Nate feels like he is getting no where till finally breaking the harizon he sees a small farm house. Coming closer Nate can feel his heart beat faster. He hadnt seen Laura in so long, and thats all he wanted right now.

Pulling into the driveway it takes Nate a moment before getting out of the car. Just looking around he takes note to the few toys that layed in the yard, and the bikes that leaned up aganst the house he sure did hope he had the right place.

Walking to the door slowly Nate straitens out his shirt. Before coming here he had run home quick and changed cleaning up his own knuckles as well making sure he didnt look like a lunitic. Knocking on the door Nate waits till the door open. Smiling he inquires.

"Hello I'm Nate Driers."

Nate holds out his hand for a handshake as an offer of friendship and a sign of peace.

"I am looking for Laura if she is around?!"

Giving a soft smile it made Jess feel good that Axel liked when she helped with his hand. Meeting Axel's eyes Jess cant help but smile bigger forgetting the pain that is caused her as her cuts were being streched,

"It feels nice knowing that I can help you like that. Being needed for something. It feels nice. Thanks."

Continuing to help with Axel's hand Jess moves a little on the couch so she is face Axel more bringing her legs up and sitting indian style on the couch. She felt so comfortable and relaxed, for once in her life it felt like her worrys just melted away.

Thinking about Axel's offer to stay Jess smiles.

"I wouldnt mind sticking around. Maybe you could show me some of the sights. Though as for staying here, I can always find a hotel to stay at. I dont want to put Gena and Derek out or anything. They have a full house as is, and I dont mind staying close by."

Jess wanted to stay, she wanted to spend more time with Axel after coming such a long way, but she didnt want to impose saying she would stay here when an offer hadnt even been made. She really didnt mind staying in a hotel.

Lingo

"...yeah, so I don't know if he's coming or not, but if he shows up, he's okay. There shouldn't be any more threat, now that Bryce is taken care of."

Dan nods, listening to his nephew on the other end of the phone. "Thanks, Con. You want me to go get Laura so you can tell her the news yourself?"

"No... don't bother her, if she's taking time alone. When you see her, let her know we caught Bryce and I'll let her know when she needs to come home."

"Alright, sounds good. Take care of yourself."

"Will do. Thanks for helping out... tell Paula hi."

"Sure thing. Bye now."


Axel is still sitting sideways on the couch when Jess comes nearer. As she reaches over to take his hand, he lets his legs slide down so he's sitting cross-legged instead, his knees no longer a barrier.

He looks down at Jess' question, but finally glances back up to her. "Yeah. I can't get the tingling to stop anymore. Last couple days it's been that way. Either it hurts like the dickens or I can't use it 'cause it goes numb."

He focuses on her own hands as she words, and his tone softens a little. "You're the only one that can make the pain go away. It still goes numb, but... thank you. Not even pain killers do what you do."

Leaning to the side, he rests his head on the back of the couch, just watching Jess. "I'm going to stay here a couple days yet... I know they won't mind if you do too... if you wanted to."


Ryder is heading down the hall and onto the main floor, not really paying much attention. He didn't know why he'd come today. Reese was too busy to talk, he had nothing to do, and he was just in the way.

Turning a corner around the cubicles, Ryder runs right into Wyatt. His pop can goes flying, hitting the floor with a bang and a hiss as it fizzes.

"Whoa." Wyatt staggers backward. "Sorry."

"Naw, my fault." Ryder grimaces as he leans down to pick up the wet and sticky can. "There goes that idea."

Wyatt grins a little. "You're Ryder aren't you."

"What gave that away? My aimless wandering? My strange looks, or the accent everybody thinks I have?"

Seeing the humor in Ryder's eyes, Wyatt laughs. "All of the above? You coming or going?"

"Well, all I wanted was a lolly water but wound up with a barney instead, so maybe going is better than coming, ay?"

Wyatt's eyes widen slightly. "You what?"

Ryder blinks. "What?"

"Um..." Wyatt grins. "I thought Australians spoke English."

Ryder gives a sheepish laugh. "Sorry. What'd I say?"

"I have no idea."

A laugh surfaces and Ryder shakes his head. "Apparently I better be more careful if I want all you to know what I'm saying."

Wyatt joins the laughter, remembering the night before. "Take away."

"And you thought I was just scrambling my English."

"Let me guess - I just didn't understand your Aussie. So now it's my fault."

"Well somebody's gotta be to blame."

Wyatt shakes his head, still grinning. "So what happened again?"

"I was after a soft drink. Ended up in a bit of an argument though."

"Ohh. Why didn't you say so?"

Ryder smirks. "I thought I did."

Wyatt just shakes his head. "So is there a problem? Who were you arguing with?"

"The only other Aussie around here."

"Ouch." Wyatt grimaces. He's about to say more, but suddenly stops. He'd read the report just this morning, and now the pieces in his mind fell into place. It would probably be better to avoid the subject for now, so he twists it back around. "Now I never had any trouble understanding what he was saying."

"Do all Americans sound the same?" Ryder counters. He shrugs. "Some people find it easy to blend in and pick up new speech habits, especially like Carson when he's been doing it for so long. He mighta been raised on another side of town too."

"What about you?"

"I dunno. Guess if I hang around you Yanks long enough I'll wind up sounding like everybody else. But don't hold your breath."

"I won't." Wyatt keeps grinning. "I'm Wyatt, by the way."


Ty hurries down the hospital hall, keeping the folded blanket in front of him. Only if someone looked closely would they see that the blanket was only half of the large bulge. The other half was being hidden underneath his jacket. He'd avoided being checked over so far, but wasn't about to waste any more time.

Scooting into Scott's room, he doesn't even knock, but shuts the door behind him.

Scott gives a start. He'd dozed off, and though Hope was still there, the last couple hours had been very quiet. He hadn't talked a whole lot, his body too tired to continue the battle for now. But seeing Ty, he forces himself to be more alert. "Ty?"

"Hey, Scott." Ty grins, then nods to Hope. He'd heard who she was, and wasn't surprised to see her there. He comes a little closer to the bed, letting the blanket drop. "I got something for you." He unsnaps a couple buttons of his jacket, and suddenly a little black and white furry head appears.

Scott's eyes widen in shock, his mouth dropping open. "But..."

Ty is still smiling. "She just got a good bump on the noggin. Vet says she's just fine as long as she doesn't get too rambunctious for a couple days."

Tears well up in Scott's eyes. All the sorrow and grief from losing his little friend were suddenly replaced by one of the biggest joys he could remember. Domino hadn't died.

Ty comes closer and lets the squirming dog go. Domino slides from his arms onto the foot of the bed, wiggling with excitement as she crawls up to Scott's face, giving him plenty of slobbery kisses.

A laugh comes out as Scott holds her closer, burying his head in her fur.

Ty just smiles in satisfaction, glancing down at Hope as if to make sure she approved.

Kicking and Screaming

Taking the peace of paper from Con Nate just looks at it before looking back to Con. A million emotions filled his eyes.

"Thanks Con!"

Just sitting there for a moment before leaving after Con get out Nate thinks. He was able to go see Laura now...but why now did Con give this to him?

Not caring to give it a second thought Nate pulls out of the parking lot and heads in the direction that was on the paper.

Smiling and giving a soft hum Misty nods to Carson. They both had been so busy, she was tired and stress having a nice time out would be great and some personal time with Carson would be nice.

"I dont care if you have to drag me kicking and screaming I would like to have dinner with you. And maybe when everything has calmed down I can ask my Uncle for a vacation."

Giving a nod and a wave to Carson as he leaves Misty goes back to her work. Her and Rick were so close to the cure if she was lucky by tonight they would have it and could administer it to Angel. There was just one missing link still, and Misty was almost there.

Enjoying the meal and listing to the chatter around the table the smile never leaves Jess face. This was something she could get use to and now new why Axel liked it here so much. This was a family, something so many people missed out on.

Wondering down stairs with the other three Jess enjoys spending time with everyone even if she didnt talk to much. Just watching the two kids plat was enough to keep her entertained. It's not untill Nick and Liz have gone upstairs that Jess looks to Axel and smiles at his question.

"I think I like it. I've never had....this..."

Jess motions around the room to the house, the family, and the love felt here.

"...its nice. I can see why the rainbow likes the spot in the clouds."

Taking note to Axel rubbing his hand again Jess moves a little bit close but not to close to make him feel uncomfortable. Gentily reaching over and taking Axel's hand Jess starats to rub it. To her it had become normal now and didnt feel to awkward anymore. Though she had taken not in just the day it had been bothing him more.

"Your hand has been bothing you alot more as of late huh?"

Rack off

Con grabs Bryce's limp body and drags him to the car, not really caring about anybody watching. Throwing him into the backseat, Con joins Nate up front for a quick but quiet ride to the station.

By the time they arrive, Bryce has regained consciousness, but is in too much pain to talk or give them any trouble. Dragged inside, he doesn't look anyone in the eye, only glaring at the floor.

It takes only a brief explanation to the officers to have Bryce taken away, and before they know it, Con and Nate are alone once more in the car. It seems so quiet. It seems so... empty. All the rage was gone. Bryce had been caught. Now all that was left was sorrow... sorrow for a loved one who had paid a steep price at no fault of her own.

Back to TJY, Con doesn't get out right away. He needed to get in his own car and go home for the rest of the day, but first...

Con finds a piece of paper and a pen, leaning forward to use the dashboard's flat surface to scribble something out. Turning, he hands Nate the paper where an address is written. "Dan and Paula Gibbs. It's a little farm... you'll find Laura there... if you leave now, you'll make it by supper time... so go before I change my mind."

Getting out of the car, he shuts the door and doesn't look back, ambling to his own car. He would leave Jamie to her work... he'd see her in a while when she got home anyway.


Carson leans into Misty, enjoying the moment with her, almost feeling deprived since he'd been gone. Finally withdrawing, he grins, giving her a wink. "I better let you keep on saving lives. But tomorrow I'm having dinner with you, no ifs ands or buts."

Straightening, he runs his fingers through Misty's soft hair for a moment before finally backing away. "Talk to ya later, Sassy."

Carson wanders out of the infirmary, tired, and wanting a shower and his bed. But he was thirsty first, so his route takes him by the break room on the way, as he fishes for change in his pocket.


Ryder has found his way to the break room after wandering the halls, deciding to grab something to drink. Hearing someone behind him, he turns around.

His stare turns to ice, and he looks away. Carson picks up on it immediately, but at this point he really didn't understand. Last he knew, he and Ryder weren't exactly pals, but they had been far from enemies. "Decided to stick it out around here?" he asks cautiously.

Ryder finishes getting his can of pop, then turns around, his glare still present. "Rack off, Carson."

Carson's eyes widen. It had been a while since he'd been told that. "Easy on! What did I do to deserve that?"

"Figure it out yourself."

Carson sets his hands on his hips. He was tired, he was worn out, and he hadn't expected this. "Is this about your brother?"

Ryder grits his teeth, his hand tightening on his can of pop. "Well now, that's a smart guess."

Since getting back, Carson hadn't taken time to really sit and think about what had happened in Australia. Now he suddenly realized that he might have made an enemy without knowing it. "I had no choice," he defends.

"Cods wallup." Ryder glares at him. "You could have just nicked him."

"And we all might have died." Carson throws up his hands. "You want to blame me and walk around with that chip on your shoulder, go right ahead. But I won't feel guilty. I save the team. I did my job. If you hadn't been so danged intent on getting the traitor out of there in the first place, you might not have even gotten shot, and we might not have even had to put the whole show in jeopardy!"

Ryder's temper flares, but he manages to keep it in. Deep down, he knew. He knew that Carson had been saving the lives of his team. He knew that had he been Carson, he would have had to make the same choice. But on the surface, all it did was hurt.

Emotions flood his eyes, and before he says something he'll regret, he stalks out of the break room.

Carson heaves a sigh and shakes his head. A pang of guilt hits him. It was a fact that he had killed again. At the time, he had just acted on instincts. But now... now that he thought about it... did that mean that he'd turned his back on the change he had allowed himself to make? He suddenly wondered. Maybe it wasn't as cut and dry as he'd thought it was. Forgetting about the drink he'd come here for, he slips back out into the hall. He would go home. He would sleep. Tomorrow, things would go back to normal.


Liz continues to giggle, shaking her head as Axel gives her a warning glance. "Okay, okay, you win. But when you have time, I really do need your help. I can't reach that lightbulb in the basement. You know, the one over the keyboard that keeps going out."

"And... you don't have a brother? Or very tall father for that matter?"

Liz sticks her tongue out at him. "I like picking on you better. Besides, I've asked them, and they keep putting it off."

"And you think I'm different?"

"Oh, you're different, alright," Liz teases.

Axel shakes his head and looks back to Jess. "Sometimes I wonder why it is I like it here so much."

"Mom's cooking?" Liz asks.

"Yeah, that's probably it." Axel rolls his eyes. Turning to Jess, he gestures with his head. "Come on... you can meet the rest of the family."

Nick is found somewhere in the back, greeting Jess nicely. Gina is in the kitchen, and meeting Jess, she offers a very warm welcome, never drawing any attention at all to Jess' appearance. It was obvious that once here, you were a part of the family.

Supper is eaten at the dining room table, full of laughing and talking. The whole family acts as though having Jess there is quite natural, never missing a beat, and being sure to include her in their conversations. Axel sits next to her, making sure she's comfortable in this atmosphere, though is relaxed enough himself, that he hopes she is too.

After the meal, Gina and Derek stay upstairs to clean the dishes, while the other four head downstairs. Liz and Nick fool around with some music for a while, but then wind up wanting to watch a moving upstairs.

Sitting sideways at one end of the couch in the basement, Axel's feet are almost tucked under one of the cushions, with his knees up close to his chest. Once the two siblings are gone, he rubs his hand a little bit, glad that Liz had not asked him to join in the musical venture of the evening. Had he needed to tell her no, then tell her why, she would have worried about him from then on out.

He looks to the other end of the couch at Jess, giving her a small smile. "Crazy enough for you around here?"

Family

Feeling Con pull him off Nate lets out a strong huff trying to catch his own breath.

"I'd rather see him dead, but I guess that wouldnt be right."

Whiping the blood from his knuckles on his pants Nate takes a pare of handcuffs from his belt loop. Taking his boot Nate rolls Bryce over being anything but gentil. Cuffing his hands Nate hoists him up and hands him over to Con.

Letting out a long sigh Nate just stands for a moment looking out at all the people in the park. Getting lost for a moment Nate finally comes back to where he is and turns back to the car. His eyes now had lost most of there anger and held only sadness.

Getting back into his car he waits for Con to get Bryce in and than himself before pulling away for the station.

Jess gives Derek a genuin smile as she feels more relaxes being there this time. Now that Axel was with her things just seemed better.

"Not to much trouble, than again I think its the storm that gives the rainbow the most trouble."

Startled just a little by the sound of running and the unexspected voice Jess soon is relaxed again seeing the young girl. Giving a smile again Jess takes Liz's hand and gives it a soft handshake.

"Its very nice to meet you as well Liz."

Just smiling Jess stands back at watches Axel and Liz interact along with Derek. She'd never had a family to call her own let alone remember what her own patents looked like. Seeing this interaction was new to her, it was something she herself had never experinces and it was intreging to see a group of people so close it was strange and new to see a family.

Feeling tired and stressed Misty contnues to work on knowing right now she had to. Feeling Carson's arms around her and hearing his voice Misty cant help the smile that made its way to her lips. Just knowing Carson was around, was enough to want her to go on.

"I like being captured, and facing the consequences when its from you."

Not being able to help the grin that surfaced on her lips Misty turns her head to look at Carson letting her lips meeting his and her other hand coming up to the side of his face and than slip to the back of his head just letting the moment linger.

Mama Sue

Bryce is taken completely off guard, his eyes wide, his face pale from almost getting hit with the car. Too stunned and surprised, he doesn't even have time to react before Nate is on him. Struggling under Nate's weight, he gives a wail, but is answered with fists. His own fists fly, but they only get tangled in Nate's arms, and he's unable to defend himself. Blood spurts from his mouth and nose as he's hit over and over again. Finally one of Nate's blows renders him unconscious.

Con is right with Nate, getting out of the car, but being on the other side, he sees Nate get to Bryce first, and let's him take over. Seeing that Bryce is going no where, Con stands back, letting Nate handle him. His anger still burned. He remembered Bryce from years ago. Now justice would finally be served.

But as he sees Bryce finally lose consciousness and Nate doesn't stop, something tells him to step in. Though he'd like to see Bryce dead, if they killed him, it would be them on trial instead, and this was far from self-defense.

"Alright, Nate, alright." He steps closer, putting his hands on Nate to pull him off their now-prisoner. "He can't serve time if he's dead."


Looking up at Jess, Axel's mouth finally curls into a smile. He takes Jess' hand and stands up, any food being forgotten. He didn't want to stay at the grill any longer. Getting outside Axel stops and turns to her before going to his car. "I don't know how to thank you, Jess. I guess all I can do is admit I was wrong." He shakes his head a little. "I'm sorry I wasn't there for you either." His left hand moves up again to run gently along her cheek. The look in his eye proved that it pained him to know that Peter had gotten to her again.

Dropping his hand, he starts forward again, tucking his tingling hand in his pocket out of the chilly wind. Jess always helped the pain go away. But this time the numbness was sticking around. For now though, he wouldn't draw attention to it.

"You can follow me," he offers, heading to his car. Once back on the street, he makes sure Jess is behind him, then heads back to the house.

Parking, he gets out and waits for her, then goes to the door. Not needing to knock, he opens it for Jess, letting them both in.

Derek is just passing when they walk in, and he stops, lifting his eyebrows and giving a little smile. Axel was back... Jess was here... that could only be a good thing. "Well hello, you two."

Axel nods to him. "Gina mind if we have an extra guest for supper?"

"You kidding me?" Derek smirks. "She'd cook for an army if it meant more chatter at the table."

Axel grins. "Alright. So have you two..." He gestures between Derek and Jess with question. He hadn't quite figured out yet how Jess had found him, but this was the only logical explanation.

Derek nods. "Yeah, we've met." His smile is warm and aimed at Jess. "Glad you came back and brought this scallywag along with you. I hope he didn't give you too much trouble."

Axel rolls his eyes. "Only a little."

Suddenly running footsteps can be heard coming down the hall and Liz comes shooting around the corner. "Axel, Axel, Axel! I need your help with..." Her voice trails off and she skids to a halt, her feet sliding on the tiled floor in her socks. Her eyes widen, realizing that Axel had not come back alone. But the embarrassment is quickly replaced with a muffled giggle. "Oh, sorry to interrupt."

Axel grins. "Liz, this is Jess, Jess this is Liz."

Liz's eyes light up. "Oh it's so good to finally meet you!" She offers Jess a friendly handshake. "I kept wondering when I'd get to put a face to the name Axel can't seem to quit talking about. Just yesterday, he was..."

Before she can finish, Axel has stepped forward to lock her head under his arm, slapping a hand over her mouth. "I'm sorry, Jess. This one is the chatterbox of the family. Really, she doesn't know any better. Poor thing. We all put up with her though."

A backhanded slap to his gut forces him to catch his breath and let Liz go.

Liz giggles and backs away several steps. "You big meanie."


Carson wanders through TJY, making his way to the infirmary. Once there, he pokes his head inside to see Rick at the counter and Misty at her desk. Tired, but not willing to go home yet, Carson is quiet about entering, and slowly comes up behind Misty's chair.

Bending down, he wraps both arms around her, under her chin. "Tsk... letting an Aussie sneak up on you? I thought you knew better." He cocks his head around to almost rest it against hers, just far enough he could see her eyes. "Or do you just like being caught?"


Gunner grins as he finds the plate of cookies on his desk from Susanne. "Oh, you're a sweet woman." Letting one with chocolate chips melt in his mouth, he trots down to her office, not knocking before going in. "Mama Sue!"

Susanne gives a start and papers go flying. "Gunner!" She reprimands. "How many times have I told you not to call me that?"

"Not enough." Gunner comes around to plant a teasing kiss on the top of her head. "You do know how to take care of me." He still has half a cookie in his hand, and he takes another bite.

"Well good. Now help me pick these papers up." Though Susanne's voice was annoyed, the twinkle in her eye proved that she enjoyed every minute of this. "And while you're at it, when are you going to shave that horred mess?"

Gunner grins and helps her pick up the papers. "Aw now, if I got all nice and prettied up, you wouldn't recognize me anymore!"


Ryder wanders across the TJY floor, feeling a bit lost and out of place. He knew people's names, but few faces, and most didn't know him either. He didn't feel unwelcome, but he didn't feel like he fit either. Ambling down the hall, he glances into an office, a supply room, then the infirmary. When he gets there though, he spots Carson. He stiffens immediately, and doesn't stick around. Instead, he continues his aimless walk. It would be just as well if he didn't have to run into Carson today.