Distraction

Jason's mind still wanders a bit, wanting to accept Katie's reassurance, but finding it just a little difficult to believe. He was still hurt that she'd kissed another man, even if it had been Ryder's doing.

Katie's kiss was as soft and warm as always, and Jason looks up at her, the emotions filling his eyes. She was right... they just didn't have any fun anymore. Part of it was their job. Part of it was the turmoil in the lives around them. Part of it was lack of time. But if they couldn't find opportunities to relax and just enjoy each other, their relationship would only continue to be strained.

Reaching out, Jason takes Katie to pull her sideways onto his lap. Wrapping his arms around her, he buries his head on her shoulder. With all his own stress lately, he hadn't paid enough attention to them.

Closing his eyes, he just holds Katie, slowly opening up the channels of his emotions until they flowed freely. In them were the frustrations and pains that had been plaguing him for the last few months, and the last few days as well. He needed to let them go... let them out before they caused another eruption.

It hurt, letting them out. It always did. But as the negativity starts to recede, warmth comes to replace it. It was a deep, soothing warmth that could only come from love. And he lets it flow just as strongly, his gift to Katie.

Next time you want someone else because we're not enough... tell me before your lips meet, so I can at least have a chance to make things right.

He wanted to be able to trust her. Perhaps without realizing it, there was a fear there, connected to the past when he had lost her to Scott. He didn't want to be selfish, and he didn't want to hold her tightly in his grips, not allowing her freedom. But this had been a warning flag to him, and he just wanted to make sure they were okay... that he wouldn't find out yet again that she'd found someone else.

I don't want to lose you... No one else could be my hero.


Rick smiles at Angel, the relief still present. Having her awake couldn't have made him more happy. "You don't know how glad I am to hear that."

He comes over to check her vitals, and nods with satisfaction."You're recovering quickly. That's a good thing."

Luke catches Angel's eye and returns her smile, though just a little wearily. He'd hardly gotten any sleep at all since they'd been in Nevada, and it was starting to show. But he wasn't going to crash yet... he had to get his love home and safe before he would let himself relax.

Glancing behind him, he realizes that he hadn't seen Jeff in a while. "Rick... you seen Jeff?"

"Um... not since this morning."

Luke furrows his brow. "Odd." He shrugs, turning back to Angel, and leaning close, resting against the side of the bed, from his chair. "I need to tell you," he relates quietly, "that we didn't tell Wendy about any of this. I thought it best until we knew for sure which way this thing was going to go. I didn't want her to get worked up."


Alec sits on the cot crosslegged, leaned back against the cold, hard wall. The holding cell was quiet. He'd given up on his tantrums. He'd given up hope of ever getting out of here now. They'd gotten what they wanted out of him - he'd caved after being tricked by Ryder. And now the realization had hit him that even if he were released, the Agency would surely want him dead. Perhaps being put behind bars would be the better option. But even that wouldn't last all that long since he hadn't killed anybody. All he'd done was break into someone's house and threatened.

He sighs and stares up at the ceiling. It had been a long time since he'd felt lonely... was that what he was feeling? He was independent and self-sufficient. He shouldn't feel lonely. But he couldn't deny the strange ache that had settled inside of him.


Ryder wanders up the walk to the house, feeling just a little bit tipsy but not enough to stagger. Getting to thet door and trying the knob, he groans. Everyone had locked up this morning when leaving for work. And he didn't have a key.
Sighing, he goes for the porch swing and eases down, stretching out. It was warm out this evening. If he closed his eyes, he could almost pretend he was back home. The sounds of the town made it difficult though. Regardless, he'd just stay and wait until Katie or Laura got home.


Carson sits across from Misty at the diner, his hand spinning his glass on the table, not even realizing he was doing it. He and Aerith had closed up Mom and Pop's just a little early tonight, giving him time for a late supper with Misty. But his mind was a million miles away. No matter how hard he tried, he couldn't stop worrying about Herb. And no matter how hard he tried, he couldn't get Mackenzie's face out of his mind.

Looking up, he catches Misty's eye, and a grin quirks his mouth. "I'm not much company tonight am I? Sorry." He leans back in his chair with a sigh. "Can we go back to your place and watch a movie?"

He lets a teasing glint come to his eyes. "No better distraction than curling up on the couch with a sassy sheila."

Not you

Feeling Jason's emotions Katie now knows where this si all coming from and some how he had found out about Ryder. How she was not sure and that really didnt matter, now was trying to pick everything back up once again.

Seeing and feeling Jason had no anger twords her helped though her own pain inside hurt, and know Jason was hurting made it worse.

Keeping her eyes on Jason Katie slides off the desk and comes closer to Jason as he sits. Her emotions inside about this whole thing now that she stoped and though about it the emotions come forth more.

No Jason, you didnt do anything wrong, you did nothing wrong at all.

Katie gives a small smile. In all reality Jason didnt do anything wrong not one bit. Who knows what it was, maybe a mixture of everything, maybe her own stupidity.

"Everything is so crazy you know, and every body has been workinng so hard. I think...we just need to slow down a little you know. We arnt kids anymore, but we are still young and we work like we are in our 40's already. I...I dont know what I am say I guess J. But you didnt do anything wong that much is for certin."

Leaning in Katie gives a soft to Jason's lips before pulling away just a ltitle again.

I love you!!

Sitting up on the bed Angel looks to Rick with a smile. Over the last day she had regained most of her strangth and was eager to soon get home.

"I am feeling great to be honest. Though the slight headache I am doing ok."

Looking over to Luke Angel gives him a smile. She felt almost like a new person and gotten the best rest in her life.

The future

"But I liked what you were."
Alice's words hit Kyle harder than he let show. They'd only been on the road a few days, but there were things he was already starting to miss. He could feel an uprising in his gut that rebelled against his own choices to turn his back on what he'd once been passionate about. But it was too late.

He starts to reply, but Alice has already let the conversation move on, and he has to be grateful for that. He lets the whole thing go too, not wanting to get in any deeper. He didn't like exchanging any form of harsh or tense words with Alice - it never felt right when he did.

"Mountain Dew is always on the agenda," he states flatly, pulling back out onto the road. "I think we're...." His phone rings, interrupting him. Fumbling with it for a moment, he finally answers it. "Yeah? Hi, Hunter." He turns to grin at Alice, still talking to Hunter. "No, we're fine. Chinese fire drill. We'll catch up in two shakes. Yeah, alright."

Shutting the phone, he rolls his eyes. "Can't get away with anything without someone checking up." Humor laces his voice though, proving he really wasn't annoyed. "We're headed for the future," he finally answers her. "Yes... that is the destination."


Receiving Katie's reply, Jason just looks into her eyes for several moments, searching deeper than the surface. He didn't normally probe, but today he did. There really was something there... but he couldn't describe it. It seemed to mirror something he himself felt, but yet it was unidentified. Unlabeled. Maybe Katie was right. Maybe it was just that things weren't as upbeat anymore... things had slowed down. Excitement didn't really exist at the moment. But was that circumstance's fault, or his own fault?

Dropping his gaze, he lets his fingers wrap around Katie's. Her words of love were reassuring. But at the same time, the fear had already been injected and it was hard to get rid of.

"I love you too," he replies quietly. He really didn't feel like there was anything to forgive. Ryder had said the whole kiss thing was his fault, not Katie's. But still...

"Guess maybe I thought..." He stops himself. He didn't want to sound bitter. He really wasn't. He wasn't angry. He wasn't even really irritated. Maybe a little, but nothing to be upset over. Yet the words slipped through.

Thought maybe there was something I did wrong to make your eyes wander to someone else.

His stare shoots back up again, realizing his emotions had betrayed him. Yet still, his eyes showed no malice. Only confusion and maybe a little disappointment. This time he doesn't try to stop the silent communication.

Is it me? Is it just circumstance? Did I do something to make you want someone else?

It was evident now... he knew about what had happened with Ryder.

His hand stands on Katie's, his eyes still looking into her own, waiting for reassurance... hoping that it existed.

Love

Alice lets out a small sigh as she listens to Kyle. Maybe she shouldnt have said anything after all. Well at least she new now what Kyle's week spot it.

"But I liked what you were."

She whispers, though she still like Kyle she felt bad and there was so much more she wanted to say but didnt. She wanted to tell Kyle that running away and trying to cover up a problem would do nothing but insted she kept her mouth shut. It would be a long hall still and the last thing she needed was Kyle being angry at her. Wouldnt she let this go? No probley not, but for now she had to like the disapointment of not saying anything.

"So where are we headed next?"

Alice takes her arm from Kyle's shoulder and moves a little back into her own seat.

"I hope its somewhere fun and exciting with lots of Moutain Dew!!!"

Alice throws Kyle a smile as they continue to drive her hair blowing slightly in the wind.

Studying Jason for a long moment Katie just sits on the edge of the desk. Feeling the tention in room Katie is not sure whats going on or whats wrong with Jason. Hearing Jason's question Katie looks down for a moment wonder what was going on but than looks up again into Jason's eyes giving a smile.

"Of course I am happy Jason, how could I not be?"

Searching Jason's eyes Katie can see the dim spark in them and the pain that layed behond that hit Katie hard and she hated seeing that.

Was there something wrong? What was it that seemed to be missing if anything? The night Ryder had kissed her as a decoy and she felt the tiny rush Katie had asked herself the same question what was it? And the only thing she had come up with was the excitment was gone.

"I mean..maybe things have cooled down a lot, and we are fly by night anymore, and maybe we dont just grab eachother out of no where.....but we have been under alot of stress you know. Its understandable."

Addmiting that all made it seem so real and Katie wondered if it had been a good idea or not. She loved Jason with all her heart that she new.

Reaching out Katie touches Jason's hand.

"I love u Jason more than anything and I will willing to work through anything. Even when I am stuped and mess up. I just hope you'll forgive me."

But don't...

Though he enjoyed the compliment about his singing, Kyle suddenly grows quiet, thinking for a long moment. The look in his eye did not reveal that he was upset or angry... perhaps just tired of fighting.

Without warning, he lets off the gas, and pulls the jeep off onto the shoulder of the interstate. He knew where they were going and could easily catch up with the bus again. Putting the jeep in park, he just sits quietly for several moments, his eyes roaming the countryside they'd been passing through.

"Alice..." he looks down, running his finger along the steering wheel. "I left my singing behind."

Leaning back in the seat he finally turns his head to look at her. "That's why I'm here... to leave everything behind. I don't want to think about what was. I don't want to dabble in what I used to do. All it brought was trouble in the end."

He hadn't wanted to have this conversation, and it didn't feel good. But Alice was his friend, and a close one at that. He felt he at least owed it to her to tell her what was on his mind, rather than leaving her in the dark.

"I haven't felt good for quite a while. That's why I got the prescription that I did. You and my brother are the only ones who know, and that's fine by me. I don't have a place anymore, and I just got tired of pretending I was happy all the time. Getting the invitation to come on this trip was the out I was waiting for, to leave behind the mess I'd created."

His eyes beg Alice to understand. "I just want to feel good about myself again and find where I belong. If it's a prescription that gets me there, so be it. If it's Break Out, so be it. I just..."

Kyle stops and sighs. "I just want to find me again. Somewhere along the way I got lost, and I know it. But don't make me go back to what I was."

I like

Letting her laughter out Alice's smile grows and for the moment that Kyle started singing she starts along too. It was nice having someone in the car with her insted of talking to herself.

As Kyle cuts off his singing and goes quiet again Alice just looks to him for a moment the smile making its way to her lips as she reasures Kyle.

"You can keep singing, it was drowning out how I was sounded. Anyways I like how you sound so keep singing your little heart out."

Good stuff

Alice's words sting just a little bit. And for the first time, Kyle feels just a bit of irritation towards her. She didn't know how he felt. No one did. All he was trying to do was stay afloat. He knew meds weren't the answer, but until he found what was the answer, they were it. As long as they allowed him to function normally, they were worth it, in his mind.

As Alice picks up the new conversation, Kyle lets the previous one drop. He was just as glad to move on, and hoped it wouldn't have to come up again.

Being pulled over slightly by Alice's arm, he grins, and lets the jeep weave back and forth in their lane. The bus' flashing lights tell him that he'd been spotted, and he laughs, straightening the vehicle back out again.

As the song on the radio comes through loudly, Kyle opens his mouth to sing along, but suddenly stops, clamping it shut again. Instead, he goes for what's left of his Mountain Dew. "Now this... this is the good stuff."


Jason looks up, his eyebrows rising, as Katie enters his office and shuts the door. Though having thought she was coming, there was still a slight element of surprise.

He sighs and shakes his head at Katie's questions. "You just said you didn't believe I was only tired, so why ask if that's really it?"

Turning his focus to his computer, he tries to compose an email to another agent, but it doesn't work very well.

"I'm..." The word 'fine' just wouldn't come one more time. Who was he kidding? If there was one person he could never lie to and get away with it, it was Katie. To her, he was transparent.

Finally he stops working and turns to look at her again, not bothering to stand up with her. His eyes hold a dimmer spark than normal, his gaze one of slight confusion and maybe a little hurt. "Are you happy? I mean... with us?"

Know better

Hanging the pills back to Kyle Alice makes a comment that was kept soft. She didnt want to give Kyle the wrong impression at all.

"Pills dont make you happy. Taking them to cover up whats wrong is like building a sky scraper out of straw."

Letting out a sigh Alice know nothing alse should be said about this not now anyways.

"I wont tell anyone."

Continuing to look down at her pad of paper for a moment she finally looks up at Kyle again and smile the brightness shinning off her face the normal glow that was always there. Tuning her laptop so Kyle could see it Alice shows him the finished product with the banner and all.

"I just finished it. I think its exciting and it lets people know what your doing now. As soon as we get to another stop I am going to see if I can get a WiFi signal and send this off to the publisher and hope in a day or two it will find its way in Whats Up?"

Closing the laptop Alice brings her feet up to rest on the dashbored as she leans forward for a moment and turns the radio up and scoots herself closer to Kyle for a moment. Slinging an around over his shoulder while he drives she sways a little to the music.

Katie is a bit confused as she listens to Jason being able to tell that really there was something wrong and she wasnt going to stand for him not telling her.

Fine my foot you are.

Standing from her cubicle Katie makes her way across the floor and to Jason's office door. Not knocking Katie new Jason would know it was her.

Entering and closing the door behind her Katie walks over to the desk and leans on the edge closest to Jason.

"So whats up and dont tell me your fine. I can tell your not. You should know better than that by now eh?"

Katie gives Jason a small smile as she continues to wait.

"So are you really just tired or is it somehting more?"

Amazing

Kyle forces a laugh to the surface even though what his emotions really wanted to do was be embarrassed and withdraw from this conversation.

"Well then... I guess if you haven't noticed, then the meds are doing their job, wouldn't you say?"

He takes the bottle to slip it back into his pocket again. "As far as I know, no one else has noticed either, and I'd like to keep it that way." His request wasn't sharp, but it was firmly implied that he wished no one else knew of this.

All that thinking about this did was remind him of what had brought him to this point in the first place, and that seemed to be counter-productive as it only brought the depressing feelings to the surface. He just wanted to feel happy again, and that's what he was trying to accomplish. He was oblivious to the mood swings that those on the bus had noticed, and therefore was content with believing that he had the help he needed.

"So... anything fun and exciting in this next article of yours?" Kyle eyes the notebook in Alice's hand.


Yeah, yeah... everything is great.

Jason swivels in his chair, rising to rummage through his filing cabinet.

Just tired I guess.

He knew the lie was a lame one, and rolls his eyes at himself. He flips through some folders and papers, trying to concentrate, but it doesn't work very well.

Maybe "inadequate" is the right word to describe how I feel, I don't know.

The drawer slams shut and Jason flops back down in his chair. Trooper's head rises from the floor, looking at him in question.

"What?" Jason shakes his head. "We're not going yet." Trooper lays his head back down.

Oh, never mind. I don't know what I'm talking about. I'm fine.


Axel stands quietly, his heart beating all the stronger as Jess places a hand on his chest. It had been too long since he'd dared take a chance with someone, but the wait seemed to be worth it.

As Jess embraces him, he automatically wraps his arms around her, and plants a gentle kiss to the top of her head. It all felt so awkward, but so natural at the same time.

"It's amazing my heart beat at all before knowing you."

Saprised

Feeling the tention shift in the car Alice knows that this must be a touchy subject for Kyle. Keeping the smile on her face like normal she just waits.

Since Alice had meet Kyle she felt like she had known him for years and was his best friend. The feeling was strange to be connected to someone so fast but she couldnt help but feel that was part of God's plan.

Continuing to wait Alice dosnt rush it. She didnt want to push Kyle on this matter because she new it must be a delicate on.

When handed the bottle Alice turns to read it just a little. She couldnt help but open her eyes just a little in saprise at the content. Giving a sidelong glance to Kyler her energy was still pumping and her smile still ferm but her tone was much softer now.

"Anti-depressentes? Your depressed? You dont see very depressed to me or is that because you take these?"

Alice couldnt help but ask questions it was in her nature though she wasnt upset, or put off by them at all only a bit saprised.

Receving Jason's message Katie gives a smile. It was good to hear from Jason always and it was good to know Angel was going to be ok.

Thanks for letting me know J.

Feeling the lack of enthuseasum in Jason's thoughts Katie stops for a moment from working. The last few says something had been differnt though she wasnt sure what it was or why.

J, is everything ok? The last few days you have been pretty quiet.

Looking up to meet Axel's eyes Jess gives a smile. Just feeling him close braught a hole new feeling to her that she likes. When he touched her hair, or her arm it was like a rush ran through her body.

"I think I want to stay just a little while longer so I dont have to be saparated from you by a car."

Jess steps forward and lays a hand on his chest over his heart. She could feel it beating and even that seemed so differnt, but felt good.

"I can feel your heart beating."

Leaning her head aganst Axel Jess wraps her arms around him just letting her feelings wash over her as she enjoys it.

Driving

Con gives a little sigh of relief, knowing that Herb would be okay. But it was still a scary situation, especially for Jamie and Mabel.

He nods and gives Jamie a little squeeze. "Alright. Well I'll wait here with you two then, until we can see him." Questions lingered behind Con's eyes, but he didn't voice them. Not yet. He would talk to Jamie later.


Kyle keeps his eyes on the road and laughs. "No sweat. I was getting bus sickness. I love the gang to death, but I had to get out of there for a while."

Listening to the music playing on the radio, he doesn't realize he's tapping his fingers on the steering wheel, almost nervously as if he can't sit still.

Alice's question makes his eyebrows rise, and for a moment, he hesitates. As far as he knew, Phil was the only one who knew he was taking depression meds. Kyle believed he was feeling better, so he wasn't ready to quit taking them, but at the same time, he really didn't want everyone knowing about it. Deep down there was a strange stirring of something that resembled guilt, but he'd been ignoring it. "No..."

He pauses, looking in the side mirror to switch lanes, following the bus down the interstate. "I'm not sick," he finally answers.

For the first time, he refuses to look Alice in the eye, even though he had plenty of time to glance in her direction. He would have stopped there, but it was obvious that she'd noticed, and would probably continue to notice. No one else had, but no one else had eyes like her either.

Giving up, but not really wanting to talk about it, Kyle reaches in his pocket and pulls out the bottle, passing it to Alice so she could see for herself.


Jason swivels in his desk chair, the paperwork on his desk going undone. His mind was too far away. He'd just spoken with Rick, and had quietly given him the paper he'd gained from the Agency lab. A quick explanation was all Rick had needed, and he'd promised to start working on it. He'd also agreed not to tell anyone.

Jason tosses a crumpled piece of scrap paper across his office, landing it in the trash can.

Katie... Rick told me Angel is awake. Thought you'd like to know.

His emotions lacked enthusiasm, even though he was happy. Come to think of it, his emotions had lacked a lot the last couple days. Though not allowing Katie to read into his thoughts, Jason's mind had continued to revert back to what Ryder had said. Jason wasn't upset... just a might confused... disappointed... but maybe more in himself than anything.

Opening his desk drawer, he fishes for a while until he finds the picture that at one time, he'd been ready to throw away. It had captured the passion he'd felt for Katie in the beginning. Was that passion gone? He didn't think so. But what was he lacking? What had he done wrong, to make Katie turn to another man? He knew she wasn't going to leave him - that much was obvious. But still... Jason felt just a bit hurt and confused as to what he could have done that was wrong.


Axel leans on Jess' car, taking a swig from his water bottle. They were both standing outside their vehicles at a rest area, having been driving all morning. They'd left Wisconsin earlier with warm goodbyes, and the Stevenson's hearty invitation to return any time.

Axel takes in a deep breath of air, and cocks his head at Jess. So much was different now. They were both returning not as different people, but perhaps with different perspectives.

Moving closer, Axel reaches out to take a strand of windblown hair and tuck it behind Jess' ear. "You alright to keep driving, or you want to wait a while yet?"


"We'll head to the bullseye and take a few losers there and then..." Toby thinks hard for a moment, looking up and to the left as he ponders, sitting in the passenger seat. "And then we figure out what we're... Ahhhh!" His shriek echoes through the car. "Right side, right side!"

Ryder's yell mixes with Toby's, as he whips the car back over to the right side of the road, barely missing an oncoming car. His eyes are as wide as plates. "Right side," he repeats calmly. "You Yanks have to do everything backward, don't you?"

"Dude, you said you weren't drunk!"

"I'm not!" Ryder turns to look at Toby, accidentally letting the car creep back over into the left lane. "But the left side is where..."

"Right! Right!"

"Right!" The car goes careening back over into the legal lane.

Sick

Continuing to hold her husband Angel's heart races. It felt like she had been asleep for ages, yet at the same time she didnt feel like she had been a sleep but more like stuck in limbo. Her head felt foggy and a minor headache was forming.

"You almost did lose me Luke, I am thankful for those who helped me."

Pulling away a little bit Angel just looks at him in the eyes for a long moment. The depths of them so great and Angel felt great comfort in them.

"I guess your stuck with me a while long non huh? Not that I mind."

Though Angel's face was still pale it was getting a little color back, as the strength returns to her eyes slowly.

Seeing Con coming down the hall Jamie stands and goes to him meeting half way. Returning the hug Jamie just holds on to Con for a long moment her eyes had no more tears to cry but the worry was still in her eyes.

"Mom found dad early this morning while they were getting ready. He had a heart attack."

Jamie slowly walks with Con closer to her mother not wanting to leave her alone for to long knowing this had to be hard on her as well.

"The Dr said he was going to be ok but his heart has grown weaker. They are going to be doing surgry and giving him a pacemaker. He's going to need losts of sleep."

For a moment Jamies eyes grow even sadder as a thought pass through her mind. But not saying anything about it right now Jamie lets the thought go.

Sitting in the passanger side as Kyle drives Alice sits with her laptop typing away. Looking over to Kyle she gives a small smile.

"Thanks for Driving a little bit Kyle. I was starting to get Highway Hypnosis."

Continuing to type about the last few days and what was going on another though runs through Alice's mind. She had seen Kyle taking some pills the last few days and she wondered what they were for. Though she was waiting for the right time to say something she didnt want to draw attacken to it having a feeling maybe Kyle didnt want that.

Turning back to Kyle again Alice just looks at him for a moment the smile still on her face she picks her words wisly as to not try and upset Kyle or make him think she was harping on him.

"Kyle, I was wondering if you were starting to come down with something? I saw you taking meds and if you were sick I had some tea that might help you out."

Round one... two... three...

Carson takes a deep breath and moves to the sink to prepare for the dishes that would be coming his way. He was tired and a little sore too. But he was glad that Mabel and Herb didn't have to worry about things right now. Herb needed rest, and Mabel certainly didn't need to be worrying about any of this.

Part of him wished that the rush had continued though, because now, once again, his mind had time to wander, and he didn't like it. Alec, Mackenzie, Herb, Alec, Australia, Mackenzie, Herb, Ryder, Alec, Mackenzie. Carson shakes his head and cleans off the kitchen counter.


Luke draws closer to Angel, returning the embrace, his own tear running down his face. "Don't be sorry," he whispers. "It wasn't your fault."

Pulling back, he keeps his hand in hers, and nods. "We've got a few people here to thank for going all the way to Australia to find your antidote. Rick said if you woke up, that the worst part would be over."

Jeff stands nearby, just leaving Luke and Angel alone for now. Backing quietly out of the infirmary, he goes out to the main floor, to the exit, and up a level. Taking his cell phone out of his pocket, he dials Austin.


"Fifty bucks says you'll lose."

Ryder stares at the grizzly man across from him at the table. A smile spreads. "Seventy-five."

"Come on, Leroy, do it!" The man's friends prod him to take the bed. "This guy's a loser. He ain't got enough meat on him to soak nothin' up. You'll have him after three rounds! Do it! Do it!"

Leroy's eyes narrow and he slaps seventy-five dollars down on the table. "Harriet! Bring the bottle!"

Boredom creates an unexplainable phenomenon where something happens in the brain to trigger ideas that normally wouldn't occur, and at the same time, severs the area in which sensibility is stored.

Ryder places his own money on the table and sits up straighter, waiting for the contest to begin. He had nothing to do. He had nowhere to go. And he could earn a quick buck... or seventy-five. The bar isn't too crowded, but just enough to be a bit noisy and smoky. Music plays, but nobody cares. Most are paying attention to the newcomer with the accent.

The whiskey comes. Round one starts. Two shot glasses, two drinkers. Leroy and Ryder down them easily, and fill up again. Round two... three... four... Onlookers start placing their own bets with each other to see who would pass out first.


Con wanders the hospital, asking questions, and not getting very far with the nurses. Frustrated, finally he's able to find Jamie and Mable on another floor in a waiting area. Coming to them quickly, he gives Jamie a hug, worry in his eyes. "I got your message. How is he?"

Be ok?

Continuing to work the best she can Aerith moves back and forth making nearly no mistake. Following Carson's direction on what to do and what to tell the customers.

Everyone left happy many giving there warm wishes to Herb as they were use to seeing him in the kitchen with Carson and the absince of Mable as well made them wonder.

Slowing walking back to the window to talk with Carson for a moment Aerith's feet hurt. She hadnt relized just how much work it was without Mable here and wondered how she did it all these years by herself.

Gancing around the dinning room Aerith gives a grimmace at the dirty dishs that littered the table. It had been so busy that some of the tables were forgotten. Now that it was slowly it would be time to clean them.

"Well, except for the two groups of people still eating, and the dirty plates at the table things dont look to bad. I think we are out of the woods for today. We did pretty good."

Aerith gives a soft smile and than grabs a washpan to start on the tables.

Drawing silent for a moment Angel closes her eyes but her face tells she is not sleeping only trying to think.

"I'm in Nevada, and last I remember I was at the hotel. But I was sick and you were coming to get me."

Angel turns her head again and opens her eyes. A tear rolled down her face.

"Oh Luke...I'm so sorry."

Sitting up a little Angel reaches out and brings Luke into a strong hug. She'd put him through so much and she was sorry for every moment of it.

"Since I am awake does that mean I'll be ok now?"

Under control

Carson ties his apron behind his back and takes in the kitchen at a glance to get his bearings. "I'm on it." He gives Aerith a nod. "And don't thank me. I do work here, you know." He tosses her a wink, and sets to work, talking to himself.

"Chicken... salad... bread..." He moves to the oven, just to look up as he hears the front bell. "Heads up. Table five."

As Aerith goes back and forth, Carson finds himself alone in the kitchen, more often than not. It felt strange. He'd never been here without Herb. It felt like something was missing. But without even realizing it, he was slipping into his role more easily than ever, not even thinking twice about some of the things he was doing.

Working as quickly as possible, he settles into a routine, doing his best to keep up with the orders Aerith was taking. "Get some more bread at table six and tell them their food will be an extra minute," he calls to her. He grimaces as he tosses out a meal that had been overcooked as he'd tried to do too many things at once. "If they're not happy, tell them desert is on the house."

Finally getting a handle back on things again, the two work together, making it through the rush. And as things begin to settle down again, the kitchen was as in as good a shape as any time.

Carson wipes the sweat from his brow and slaps his ball cap back on his head. "How we looking out there, Aerith?" he asks loudly. He hadn't had any orders in a few minutes, and hoped the rush was over. So far, there had been no unhappy customers.


"Woo!" Kyle holds the bottle of pop over his head in victory. "Score one for sugar!"

"And caffeine." Hunter comes up behind him, slapping him upside the head. "I think it would be a fine idea for you to ride with Alice. The bus just can't handle you bouncing all over the place."

Kyle grins and takes a bow. "That is a compliment." Moving to a water fountain, he swallows a couple pills, then rejoins the group at the parking lot. But this time, he's with Alice. "Alright, Witty Whitt, hand over the keys. It's time you let the pro drive."


Luke's head shoots up as he feels Angel's hand in his, and hears her voice. "Oh, Angel," he whispers. Tears spring into his eyes. "You're awake."

He smiles, choking back the tears, and brings her hand to his lips to kiss it tenderly. "No, BJ wasn't playing train... but I thought I'd lost you for good."

He reaches up with his hand to brush her hair aside from her face. "Do you know where you are?"

Fuzzy

A wave of releaf washes over her as she hears Carson voice. Things were going ok but it was just starting to get busy and there would of been no way to cook and take orders. Now that Carson was here things might go slow but not as slow.

"The special today was chicken parm, I need three plates one with salad and two with bread."

Moving back and forth between the counter and the tables with the people coming in Aerith manages to talk with Carson more but not much.

"Thanks for coming in Carson. There is no way I could of done this alone."


Entering the hospetil Jamie slowly makes her way across the floor till she finds her mom. Wrapping her arms around her in a tight embrace tears spring from her eyes.

"Oh Mom. How, when?'

Returning her daughters hug Mable rests her head on Jamies.

"This mornng, we were getting ready like normal and your father just calapsed in the livingroom. I got him here as soon as I could. He's going to be alright Jamie from what the Dr said. He might need a seargery but nothing to huge..."

Grabbing the bottle of MD as is comes flying her way Alice hold it up a little before poping the top and taking a long swige.

"I think maybe..you should be in the jeep with me. We both just had sugar we could be dangerous."

Throwing the bottle over her head Alice just grins as she yells.

"its going...going...going....and HE'S GOT IT. WWCK HAS DONE IT AGAIN."

Breaking into a sweat Angel slowly opens her eyes trying to bring everything that was fuzzy into focus. Its was hard to remember where she was and why she was there.

Turning her head to the left Angel's eyes fall on Luke and whatever fear she had was not gone by just seeing his sweet face. Reaching a hand out she gently slips her own into him.

"My head feels like its been run over by a train. Was BJ playing train again while I was asleep?"

Drive

Carson feels just a bit of reassurance from Misty's words, but is left hanging as his phone rings. He didn't want to answer it, but with so much going on already, he didn't dare let it go.

Fishing in his pocket, he pulls out his phone. "Yeah?" Mabel's voice hits his ears, and he's immediately on edge. She never called him. As he hears the news, he straightens, his face paling slightly, his hand sliding from Misty. He opens his mouth to ask questions, but Mabel is already answering them. He's relieved that Herb was going to be okay, but knowing he was in the hospital... it hit him a little harder than he'd think it would.

Carson swallows hard, his mind racing. "Don't worry about the restaurant," he assures quickly. "You've got more important things to think about. I was just heading back anyway. I've got a key, so we're fine there. I'll go help Aerith out right now so we can at least finish out the day, and we'll go from there."

In reality, he had no idea how he and Aerith would handle things, but he wasn't going to let Mabel worry about it. "If you need anything else, let me know. And tell Herb to quit doing things like this." Though teasing a little, Carson felt rather sick. His tone quiets. "Let me know when he can have visitors."

Wrapping up the call, Carson flips his phone shut and just closes his eyes a moment, trying to regroup. Finally he looks to Misty. "Herb had a heart attack. Sounds like he'll be okay, but he's up at the hospital." He takes a deep breath, pushing everything else out of his mind - Mackenzie, Alec, everything. "I need to get back to Mom and Pop's to help Aerith."

Carson is quiet on the way back to the restaurant. His mind was reeling... bouncing from one thing to the next. Why was everything happening at once? What next?

Arriving at Mom and Pop's, Carson leans over and gives Misty a kiss, letting her know he'd call her later. Then getting out, he jogs around the building, letting himself in the back.

Slipping into the kitchen, he takes off his jacket and tosses it on the hook, grabbing an apron. "Yo, Aerith. Mabel called me. Where we at in here?"


Kyle opens the Mountain Dew bottle from the vending machine and takes a long swig. "Ahhhh." Wandering from the small rest area building, he squints in the sun, stretching his legs along with everybody else. It had been several hours since they'd stopped, and everyone was glad for a short break.

Spotting Alice, he grins. "Think fast!" The bottle of pop goes flying in her direction, an offer to share.

"Hey, I was thinking, if you get tired of driving or whatever, or just want some company, I'd be glad to drive for a while." Kyle shrugs. In reality, he was having a blast in the bus with the rest of the team. But he'd lost count of how many times he'd wanted to say something to Alice and include her in on some of the fun. Cell phones had been used, but it wasn't the same.

Attack

Pulling out her phone Mable exits the hospetil tears streak her face as she has dark circles under her eyes proving she had been there for a while.

Dialing Carson she hated bothing him right now when she new he was busy but it was an emergncy. Waiting for Carson to answer.

"Carson, I am so sorry to bother you I know you took time off and all but I wanted to let you know there has been an emergncy. Carson Herb had a heart attack. We think he is going to be ok but he needs to stay in the hospetal for a few days."

Mable is quiet as she sucks in a deep breath her voice wavering just a little.

"Aerith is back at the restront at the moment and its not busy yet but do you think you can go check on her and help her out for me? I can give you a key as well and if you can open the next few days. Aerith said she would be there to help you too. and when I know more I will tell ya."


Wrap her arms around Carson Misty brings herself closer to him.

"That past might always come back to haunt you but I have no doubt who you are anymore...I'll always be here with you no matter w..."

As Misty continues to talk she is cut off by Carson's phone ringing.

Can't be easy

Carson doesn't answer Misty right away, but he moves his arm to wrap around her waist, bringing her closer. "I don't know," he admits. "I never thought I'd be doing something like this. I don't know how to feel. She's a cute kid... but I know the truth that I'm not ready to take her on, even if the system would allow it - which they won't."

He shakes his head. "There's no point in letting her get close because then she'll just get more confused about where she belongs."

But even though his words spoke of the logic, his heart reminded him that he was talking about his daughter here. His daughter. How strange and frightening that sounded. He sighs. "This never should have happened. If only I hadn't been such a fool all those years ago."

Turning, he leans his back against the tree and faces Misty, letting his hands rest near her hips. "I'm sorry... seems my past keeps coming back to haunt me. I know it can't always be easy for you, even if I am entirely yours now."

You

Misty continues to watch not saying anything. The scene was heart wrenching in some ways and in others she was proude of Carson that he held up as well as he was.

It felt strange to have a scene like this hit home for Misty and makes small tears well in her eyes though he refused to let them spill over.

Though Misty could tell in his eyes this was harder then he exspected. Watching the girl Misty lets out a sigh. What could she say? She new that Carson was hurting but there really was nothing to say.

Laying a hand Carson's shouler Misty lets it slide down his arm as she gives it a gentil squeeze.

"You did good."

Stepping so she could be along side him Misty let out a sigh.

"She'll be ok, but how about you?"

Misty didnt want to say anything else about the girl not right now. The wound was to fresh and still hurt she would wait untill later.

Busy

Mackenzie stares at Misty for several moments before turning back to Carson. "What did..."

Heather intervenes. "Mackenzie, Mr. Banks doesn't have a whole lot of time. He's a very busy man."

"Too busy for me?"

Heather cocks her head, giving the child a gentle but firm look. "I already told you that. We made a deal, remember? You get to see him, then no more trouble."

Mackenzie ignores her and looks back up at Carson, having to crane her neck to see out from under her hat brim. "Are you really that busy? 'Cause you don't look like the busy type."

The corners of Carson's mouth start to twitch and he finds himself playing along for just a moment. "And what does a busy type look like?"

"You know... a suit and tie or something. But Miss Jones said you were a criminal, so I didn't think you'd be in a suit."

Carson throws Heather a look of annoyance. Sometimes the whole truth need not be told to a child. "I guess you were right then."

"So you're not too busy to see me?"

Carson's eyes meet Heather's. Her look warned him to play the part he was supposed to. He was supposed to make Mackenzie feel unwanted so she wouldn't want to stay. But a fresh feeling welled up inside of him. One that fed his bullheadedness. No matter the impression he wanted to give this kid, his actions were being dictated by this woman, and he didn't like it. "Nope," he states flatly, retaliating against Heather's suggestions. "I'm not too busy."

Heather's stare turns into a glare. "I'm sure you have other things to do, Mr. Banks."

"Actually..." Carson glances at his watch. "I planned for the afternoon. My employer already approved me taking off several hours."

Hope shimmered in Mackenzie's eyes, and for a moment, her mature stance fades just a little to reveal that she is indeed, just a hurting little girl. "Really?"

Carson shifts his tactic. Maybe he could do this his own way, and still accomplish what they wanted. "Why would you want to spend time with a criminal?" he counters.

Mackenzie has to think about that one.

Heather smirks a little smugly. "He's right you know," she cautions. "I told you he's been a very bad man. I'm not going to leave you alone with him."

Mackenzie ignores the social worker. Stepping closer to Carson, she reaches up to tug on his shirt, forcing him to bend down. Now at her eye level, her eyes pierce her father's with an identical steel gaze. "You're not bad," she muses. "Just sad."

For a moment, Carson squints at her, feeling out of control again. "What would I be sad about?" he questions.

"I don't know. Maybe because people say you're bad."

Carson straightens up again, giving a sigh. The little games were over. "Look, kid... you got a family waiting for you. Miss Jones is right. You should go back with her now."

Tears well up in Mackenzie's eyes. "No," she begs, "I wanted to spend time with you."

"Don't pay any mind to those tears," Heather warns. "She's a little expert at manipulation."

But Carson can tell that the tears are genuine. This was no game to this little girl. And for the first time, Carson begins to wonder what was really the right thing to do here. "It won't work," he explains, his tone becoming more gentle. "You'll be much better off with that other family that wants to adopt you."

"But... but you're my dad."

"That may be true. But kid..." He stops and swallows hard, throwing a glance to Misty that was confused and a little bit scared. "You're gonna have to let this go," he finishes.

"But..."

"No buts." Carson changes tactics again. "You want to make me happy so I'll like you, right?"

Mackenzie nods.

"Then you need to do what I tell you. You need to go back with Miss Jones now and start behaving yourself for that nice family." Carson extends his hand. "It was nice meeting you, Mackenzie."

She bravely takes Carson's hand, forcing her lower lip not to tremble.

"Come on, Mackenzie," Heather urges, taking her other hand. "We can't miss our flight."

As she's pulled away, Mackenzie's grip tightens on Carson's hand. "No," she begs. "I want to stay."

"You can't. Now come on."

"But I want to stay with my dad!"

"No!" Heather's volume rises to match that of the determined little girl. Several heads in the park turn to see what's going on.

A tear rolls down Mackenzie's cheek. "Please let me stay," she begs Carson.

Carson's own eyes flood with emotions, not understanding what he felt, and not understanding why this little girl cared. He lets go of her hand, forcing hers to slip from his as she's pulled away.

Planting her feet, Mackenzie rips her hand from Heather's and spins around to just stare at Carson, then Misty, then Carson again. Leaving would be on her own terms, not Miss Jones'. After hesitating several seconds, she turns around on her own to walk with Heather back to the car. Though this time her head was hanging.

Watching the car leave, Carson denies what he doesn't want to feel rising up inside of him. "She's better off this way," he concludes. "She's young... she'll bounce back and she'll be happy with a real family."

Who was he kidding? Turning his back on Misty, he leans up against a tree, his jaw muscles working to prove the tension he felt. A lump rose in his throat. This felt all wrong. But he didn't know what would make it right. He didn't know why he felt this way anyway.

Nice

Smiling down at the little girl Misty just watches her for a moment. She didnt saying anything at the moment because it was not her place but she took note to a few things anyways. First off she didnt like Heather at all and had to bit her toung and second there was no denying that this was Carson's child.

Giving a chuckel at her comment about being Carson wife Misty looks down at the young girl and takes her hand in a ferm hand shake.

"Hello, its nice to meet you."

Misty gives her a friendly smile looking her in the eye to show it was nice to meet her till finally she looks back to Carson waiting doe that happend next.

Meeting

Days are funny. For some, they are part of a new life as one struggles to find their path. They are an uphill climb, not something to be hated, but not easy either.

Ryder wanders the mall, feeling a bit lost. Katie had dropped him off two hours earlier, and by now he figured he had what he needed. Finding a bench, he just sits a while, watching the people walk by. It was different here. So much was the same as home, but so much was not. Would he ever get used to it?

For some, the days are like wading through mud. They stretch the emotional muscles, each step harder than the last, pure will-power the only thing that keeps one going.

Carson sinks down in a chair in the kitchen, weary from the day. He only had a few hours left, but it felt like today had been the longest ever. He'd worked. He'd talked with Rocky, trying to gain wisdom. He'd called Jess and left a message, just to say hi. He'd called Misty, and found relief that she would be with him tomorrow to meet Mackenzie. He'd seen Dani over lunch and had talked about Alec. He hadn't talked to Herb about his job though. And talk of Mackenzie had so far only been kept between him and Dani and Misty. There was just so much going on. He prayed the day would come to a close quickly.

For others, the days can be quiet victories, ones that continue to expose the scars, yet shed light in the dark corners, chasing away the fears and relieving the soul.

Scott sits in Hope's office, talking quietly, with Domino in his lap. Today had been a calm session, one that he had talked a bit more than normal. He felt better today. He felt more confident. He was dealing with discovering how to stand up for himself without the anger, and was realizing how he could overcome fears by knowing he was not weak. The only damper on the day was the realization that his days with Hope would soon be coming to an end.

And yet for others, the days might signal the coming of a new walk in life. The closing of a chapter and the starting of another. Something that would perhaps bring slight fear, but not one to make a soul tremble... not when they had someone to walk with them down that new road.

Axel sits with Jess on the porch swing, the afternoon hours passing by. It had been a very quiet day, but one that he would remember always. Peace existed here, that much was for certain. And being with Jess... well, there was a new element there, and he couldn't deny enjoying it. He only wished they could stay here always, but he knew they had to move on. Just a little longer... just another day or two...

For wandering souls, the days are sheer torture, agonizingly slow, full of hours that drag by. They seem pointless and dull with nothing to look forward to.

Alec slouches on the cot in the holding cell. At least he wasn't cuffed to the pipe today. He'd been to the interrogation room twice. Once with Reese. Once with Jason and Nate. Each time he'd wound up talking, though grudgingly. He hadn't had much of a choice, and now was beginning to realize that there really was no way out of this. He wasn't going to be let free... and no one would be coming for him. This was it. This was his fate... and soon, they would throw him behind bars.

But regardless of how days are viewed, they all come to and end, to start the cycle all over again. Sometimes they brought on new perspectives and new feelings. Sometimes they brought on the very same feelings. But in the end, the clock still ticks. Time still moves on.

Carson paces beside the tree in the park, his eyes bouncing from the parking lot to the street to Misty, to the ground and back again. They'd only been waiting for fifteen minutes but it felt like an eternity. Misty had picked him up from work and they'd both come to the park to wait on the meeting. Carson knew that Misty would want to get back to TJY soon as Angel was continuing to improve, but he was just nervous enough that he wasn't about to tell her she could go. He wanted her there with him.

A rental SUV pulls up to the park, stopping in the gravel lot. Heather gets out from the driver's side, then walks around to open up the passenger door. Emerging is a slim little girl, her blond hair pulled back into a ponytail at her neck, covered partially by the baseball cap she wore. She looks around the park, her eyes searching. Refusing Heather's hand, she chooses to walk alongside on her own.

Approaching the couple, Mackenzie spies Carson, and her eyes never leave him. The question was evident on her face: was this her father?

Carson swallows hard, and shifts his weight, feeling ridiculous. It was a little girl. A kid. What on earth was he scared of?

Heather leads Mackenzie up to Carson and Misty, giving Carson a nod. "Mr. Banks. I'm glad you made it." She looks down to the girl. "Mackenzie, this is..."

"My dad," Mackenzie finishes. She gives Carson a bold once-over and extends her hand.

Carson quirks an eyebrow. There was no fear in this girl. He accepts the handshake, his own rough hand enveloping hers.

"Miss Jones said you didn't want to meet me."

Carson blinks. "Well now... you certainly cut right to the chase."

"What does that mean?"

"Um..." Carson is at a total loss, completely out of his element. He'd killed, he'd tortured men and women, he'd done everything in the book, but when it came to kids, he felt like an idiot. "It means you say exactly what you mean without waiting."

"Oh." Mackenzie continues to stare up at him. "Do you have an accent 'cause you're from Australia?"

"Yes."

"Mom said that's where you were from. How come you're not there now?"

"Well, it's..." Carson stops, shaking his head. "It's a long story."

Mackenzie's eyes drift to Misty. "Is she your wife?"

A laugh sticks in Carson's throat. "No. She's my girlfriend though."

"Oh." Mackenzie thinks for a moment, then extends her hand to Misty too. "Hi."

Sun Rise

Shaking her head Katie opens the door and throws the wet towl at Ryder a quirky smile on her face.

"Oh I guess I can. I mean your clothing are starting to smell a little."

Katie scrunches up her noise a little before giving a heartly laugh again and giving Ryder a pat on the arm and a laugh again.

"I'm kidding you smell as pretty as roses? I'll drop you off at the mall on my way to work if you like. You still have enough money and all? I can lend you some."

Quietly steping out of the spair bedroom Jess makes her way through the quiet hours. The sun was just starting to make its way over the harizon and Jess wanted to see it in a differnt light.

Unlocking the front door Jess moves with care stepping out on to the pourch trying not to make any noise and wake them.

Leaning aganst the railing Jess looks out at the harizon where the dark night sky was turning pink, to orange to a soft purple.

Taking in a deep breath the fresh air felt good in Jess lungs. She liked it here, it was nice, it was peaceful, and worry seemed to be non exsistent. Jess wondered if things would always be like this now, or if this was something that would not offten be found. This would defintly go in her memorie book next to her Rainbow.

Reaching Morning

Carson works his jaw muscles, proving that on the inside there was a whole lot more going on than the outside. "No..." He shakes his head slowly. "No, it's best this way. Seeing her won't matter. I think that social worker would be better off setting the girl straight and putting her foot down instead of giving in, but... I guess that's just me."

His eyes roam the kitchen. "Flesh and blood or not... the kid deserves a family and that's what she's getting. The system is only involving me because she's throwing a fit, not because they really want me to do anything. I'm just... here to prove that there's something better than me."

He thinks for a moment and shakes his head. "No... I should just get this over with and be done with it. They're not asking me to do anything but stand and look incapable of being a parent... that shouldn't be too difficult." Though his words seemed to reflect logic, the tone of his voice was strained, as if already he didn't really know what was right.

Giving another sigh, he turns back to Misty and slings an arm over her shoulders. "I'm sorry... I just... needed some company. Thanks for listening." He squeezes her a little, and guides her out of the kitchen, flipping off the light. "Can we go get some late night ice cream before you go back to work? Guess I just wanna wind down before going home, or Dani will be all over me."


A folded blanket comes out of nowhere, landing on top of Ryder's head. "Umf!" Ryder sits up, dazed after being in a deep sleep. "What in the..."

"Oh, Ryder!" Laura puts a hand over her mouth, stifling a sheepish laugh. "I'm so sorry. I was cleaning up the living room and forgot you were there."

Ryder runs a hand through his disheveled hair. "Henry... you... I really do need to be quick about finding my own place."

"I am sorry," Laura apologizes again. "You can stay as long as you want, you know that."

Ryder quirks a grin. "Yeah, I know."

Laura comes around the couch and sits down, folding her hands between her knees. "Ryder...?"

He cocks his head. "Yeah?"

"Um... thank you... for being so nice. I... needed that." She gives a little nod. "I got a boyfriend that loves me to death and I almost forgot that. I know I'm taken care of. But... it was really nice of you to do those special things and... and give me the flowers and all that."

"I think I mighta made Nate a little unhappy," Ryder admits ruefully.

Laura grins. "He got over it. But really...I needed to remember that there were others who thought I was worth their time and effort... not just those who I was closest to... and... you reminded me of that. So... thank you."

Ryder lowers his head, his face reddening just a little. He was never after any thanks. But he would accept it anyway. "Well... you're welcome. Thanks for letting me stay here... even if you do forget I'm here."

Laura laughs and shakes her head. She felt better today. There was still a lot of turmoil, a lot of hurt and a lot of anger inside of her. But the sun was just a little bit brighter today. She had someone who loved her... and more friends than she'd remembered. "Breakfast?"

"Mm... that sounds good." Ryder gets up and ambles down the hall, coming to the closed bathroom door. He bangs his palm on it, though not as obnoxiously as the other day. "Hey, you're the resident hero," he hollers. "I need a ride somewhere to get some clothes. Drop me of on your way to work?"


"You alright?"

Carson looks across the kitchen table at his sister, coffee mug cupped in his hands. "Yeah... yeah."

Dani looks at her brother with compassion. He'd come home very late last night, but she'd been awake, reading. The conversation that had followed had been a calm one, but surprising. She could tell that this whole thing bothered Carson, but there was nothing she could do. A part of her had gotten just a little excited, thinking that she had a niece. But she knew that Carson had no intention of doing anything but what the social worker said. Then there was the issue of Alec. She'd been shocked, and she almost wanted to go see him, but better sense warned her not to for a while. Though more sentimental than Carson, the thought of another brother did stir something in her heart.

The phone ringing prevents any talk on the subjects, and Dani gets up to answer it. "Hello? Yes. Yes, he's here. Hang on." She holds out the phone. "It's Reese."

Carson quirks an eyebrow. "I'm gonna be late for work."

Dani puts a hand on her hip. "Be nice."

Carson gulps down the rest of his coffee and stands up, taking the phone, but first wrapping it around his sister.

"Hey, hey, watch it!"

Carson grins, just letting Dani find her own way out of the tangled mess. "Yeah, Reese. Whatcha need?"

"Hi, Carson. Sorry to call so early, but I wanted to catch you before work. Listen, um, there's a couple things. One, I wanted to apologize about yesterday. I should have found out a few more facts before calling you in to see Alec. I guess I made an assumption that you'd want to see him, but I understand if you wouldn't."

"It's alright." Carson sighs. "I just got enough going on right now. I was curt with you too.... I figure once things settle down, and when he's more cooperative, I'll come talk to him. I know its' the right thing to do. I think my sister might want to see him too."

"Well, I'll leave that up to the both of you."

"Has he said any more?"

"No, we haven't worked on him any more yet after Ryder. This morning we're going to try again."

"Alright. Well... thanks for calling."

"I got one more thing."

Carson sees Dani getting ready to leave, and gives her a smile and wave, still talking to Reese. "Yeah?"

"How would you like to be back on the team?"

Carson straightens, his eyebrows rising. "What... you mean back on the Elite? How's that possible?"

"Oh, it's been long enough now, and I'd say you proved yourself with that Australian mission."

"You're talking full time?"

"If you want it. We could use you back, Carson. They don't call us the Elite for nothing."

Carson swallows hard. The adrenaline automatically started pumping. He opens his mouth, but then stops. Herb came to mind. Mabel. Aerith. The restaurant. His haven. And for the first time, he didn't jump at the chance to get back into the action. It was one of the strangest sensations he'd ever experienced. But he couldn't deny its presence. "Um... can I think about it?"

Reese chuckles. "You bet. The offer stays open as long as you don't go and do something stupid, and I have a feeling you won't."

"I'll think about it then. Thanks."

"Sure thing. Take it easy and I'll be in touch."

"Yeah, okay. Bye." Hanging up the phone, Carson lets out the breath he'd been holding. "God, what am I supposed to do?" He shakes his head. A half-brother. A daughter. Action on the field. What else? "I just don't understand why I'm getting all this at once." But he knew deep down that he didn't have to understand. He just needed to have the faith that everything would turn out for good.

The phone rings again and Carson groans. "Yeah?"

"Mr. Banks?"

He bristles. "Heather."

"Very good, I'm impressed."

"Don't be. What do you want?"

"You. Tomorrow. To meed your daughter."

"Tomorrow?!" Carson blinks. "I thought it would be..."

"Well, then you thought wrong. I want to get this over with as much as you do. I have a flight for myself and Mackenzie and we'll be in tomorrow, then back out again a couple hours later. Can you meet us?"

How could he say no? "Um... yeah. You want me to pick you up at the airport or what?"

"No, I'll have a rental car. You just name the place, as long as it's appropriate for a little girl."

Carson rolls his eyes. "City park?"

"That will do. Two pm?"

"Sure."

"Great. I will see you then, and we can get this little episode over with."

"Yeah." Carson hangs up without a goodbye. He looks up at the ceiling. "You really do like putting pressure on me, don't you? Guess I deserve it. But why this?" Suddenly, he realizes the time. "Aw shoot." It's a rush to get ready for work, and his walk became a run downtown.

Getting into the back of Mom and Pop's, he slides into the kitchen. He'd have to call Misty later. "I'm here, Herb," he calls. "Where we at?" He grabs an apron, then peeks out behind the counter, throwing Mabel a smile. "Morning, Mum."


Scott stands on his porch, looking out at the gray morning. Domino's leash was in his hand, his little friend, waiting at his heel for the signal to walk. He hesitates. Last night had brought little sleep. But no one had come. He'd been safe. The security cameras had helped ease his mind. But something else had too. The fear... it wasn't as great.

He stares out to the sidewalk and finally takes a step forward. His white t-shirt was hanging loose over his jeans, and his flannel shirt was unbuttoned. His contacts in, and his hair finally grown out, no one would guess what had happened to him.

Gripping Domino's leash, he steps down off the porch and walks toward the sidewalk. It would take him about half an hour to get to Hope's, and that would make him on time for his appointment. Today... today he was going by himself.

Make sure

Listin still Misty cant help a lump that rises in her throat. She couldnt imagen having to deal with this herself. But would is really be bread and butter like Carson described?

"I think after everything, you would make a great father and I dont think you should second guess yourself on that. But as for being stable enough, thats up to you and I cant talke about that."

Misty lets out a sigh as her mind works. In the past she had seen so many kids and what the system did to them, but if she had a family maybe that would be ok.

"Once you see her though Carson is it going to be that easy to let her go? I mean she is your flesh and blood."

Giving another sigh Misty didnt know what to say. This was a hard situation for anyone, and a hard desition to make.

"This is your desition to make though Carson and no matter what I'll be behind you in it. Just make sure you make the right one you believe in so later your not kicking our own butt."

Misty looks up at Carson and smiles. That really was the only advice she could give him. And she did want him to know she carded and would be behind him. THAT was important.

All over

Carson doesn't move, still trying to get his own mind to wrap around this whole mess. But finally giving in, he pulls Misty a little closer, giving her a hug and just holding her for a moment, wanting to know everything was okay. He didn't often feel weak... but this was one of those rare times.

Pulling away, he shakes his head and leans back against the counter. "No... no, it's different than that. And yeah, there was no reason for me to believe there were lies here. The names and dates were right, and they had written word that I'm the father."

He sighs, folding his arms across his chest. "June... that was the mother... she died about a year ago. The social worker said that the girl has been looking for her real father and won't give up. Apparently she's been quite the handful with the silly notion. So... the social worker wants to bring her here... too meet me. And then... when Mackenzie finds out that I'm not the fairytale father she envisioned, she'll give up the whole idea and go home again."

Carson pauses, his thumbnail finding a notch in the surface of the counter. "She's got a family that wants to adopt her, so... I guess the social worker is right. I mean... I certainly can't take her on, let alone claim her after all these years." He tries to talk himself out of any other avenues. "It would be ridiculous, not to mention, I don't need a kid hanging on me. I don't like it that the social worker judged me, but... she's right. I'm not the type, and apparently the agency is satisfied with giving Mackenzie a stable home with two parents. Obviously that's the right choice."

He gives a nod, then looks back to Misty. "And then... then it will all be over."