Help

As Nate takes Laura's hand, the tingle runs up her arm and she smiles. "Okay," she agrees. "We start where we left off." Her fingers tighten around his. "Thank you, Nate. I could never ask for anything more than you... as a friend... and as more than a friend."

She leans her face onto his hand as his finger runs down her cheek. Closing her eyes for a moment, she takes a deep breath, wishing that reality didn't always have to run with the clock.

Looking back to Nate, her smile remains. "There's just one problem... I don't know where we left off."


Carson grins at Herb and Mabel, and shakes his head. Looking at the clock, he rises from his seat. "I better go relieve Aerith. You take it easy and I'll come back by to see you. We'll talk more about the restaurant when you're out of here."

Giving Herb's shoulder a pat, Carson heads for the door, but turns one more time. "Oh, and Misty says hi." Still smiling, he continues his route, leaving the hospital, then catching a waiting cab to Mom and Pop's. Soon... soon he'd have his own vehicle.


Mackenzie's eyes sparkle above her smile as Aerith's gentle nature draws her in. "Sure." She nods. "Can it be strawberry?"

She scoots up onto one of the stools, letting it swivel just a bit as she waits. She doesn't have to wait for long, however. When the bell on the door rings, she turns, spotting the one she'd been looking for.

Carson heads through the restaurant, having taken the front route instead of the back this morning. Aiming for the kitchen, he almost doesn't see Mackenzie at the counter, but when he does, he stops short. Blinking, he looks around to see if anyone else was there with her. "Mackenzie?!"

She grins at him. "You remembered my name."

"Of course I did." Carson is totally confused, and looks between her and Aerith, who was in the kitchen. "What are you doing here?"

"Visiting you. And the lady in the kitchen said I could have a milkshake."

Carson finds that hard to believe that Mackenzie was just visiting, and he bypasses his awkwardness for a moment in order to get some answers."Did you come back with Heather?"

"No."

"Well who's with you?"

"Nobody."

Carson's eyes widen. "What? You're alone?" He looks around, then pulls Mackenzie off the stool and into the back hall out of sight from the front customers. "How did you get here?"

Mackenzie shrugs. "A man said he could take me to you."

A strange look of panic hits Carson, and he squats down in front of her, to look up at a better angle to see her eyes. "Who? When?"

"At the orphanage, really early this morning. I got up to get something to drink, and he was there."

"You mean you went with a total stranger?"

Mackenzie withdraws a little as Carson's voice grows stern. "He said his name was John Smith. He really was nice," she tries to convince him.

"Aw Mackenzie." Carson groans and stands up, putting his hands on his head. He turns a little circle, keeping his frustration to a low growl

Mackenzie bites her lip. "Are you mad at me?"

"Yes! No... yes. I don't know yet."

"Well I just wanted to see you, and John said he knew where you were. He wasn't a bad person."

Carson's mind works overtime to figure out this thing. Pacing a moment, he crouches down in front of her again. "It was foolish of you," he chides. "Do you realize what will happen now?"

"I have to go back."

"That, and they're going to blame me for taking you."

"But I left on my own."

"It doesn't matter." Carson desperately tries to explain. "You don't belong to me, and now I'm in a whole lot of trouble."

Fear enters Mackenzie's eyes, along with a couple tears. "But you're my dad. And John didn't say you would get into trouble."

Carson's gaze shows his desperation. How could he make her understand? He had been set up. A do-gooder wouldn't be that stupid. A kidnapper wouldn't have brought her here. Someone from social services wouldn't have left her alone. It was obvious that someone - most likely Heather - wanted to make him look like the ultimate bad guy so there would never be even a chance for Mackenzie to be with him.

Whether or not he wanted to see his daughter was beside the point. This kind of underhanded action and child trickery angered him. "John did it on purpose," he emphasizes, trying to be gentle. "I'm gonna have to call Heather and have someone come get you."

Disappointment flickers in Mackenzie's eyes. "You really don't want me, do you?"

"That has nothing to do with it," Carson retorts. "Don't play that came, 'cause I'll win." Mackenzie might just be twelve, but Carson knew good and well how smart she was.

She sighs in defeat.

Carson stands up again, calming down a little. "Come on." He nods to the kitchen. "Get that milkshake while I make that call." Pushing the door open, he gives Aerith a pleading look for help. "Would you please watch Mackenzie here? I have to go make a quick call, then I'll be right back to start cooking. If customers complain, blame it on me."

Once he's gone, Mackenzie looks to Aerith again. "I guess I got him in trouble." The look on her face is a sad one. "I just thought maybe I'd have another chance." She sits down at the table, folding her arms to rest her chin on them. "I'm not sure I want the milkshake anymore," she mentions quietly. She bravely held back the tears that wanted to come.

Out in the hall again, Carson busies himself, looking for the right phone number, and finally finds it. It takes some doing, but with a little work and a bit of frustration, he finally gets Heather on the line.

"Miss Jones, this is Carson Banks... from Nevada?"

"Mr. Banks." Heather's tone is a cool one. "Where is Mackenzie?"

Carson grits his teeth. If Heather wasn't involved, she'd certainly pounced on him quickly. "You tell me," he counters.

"This is no time for games," Heather warns. "Your daughter has been missing since early this morning. I find it highly coincidental that you would call me on this particular day."

"You'd like to think I did something, wouldn't you?"

"If you know something, you had better say so right now."

Carson leans back against the wall. "Ya know, It's interesting that you've known she was missing, you suspected me, yet you didn't contact me. Now why is that?"

"Mr. Banks." Heather's voice grows even more irritated. "Have you seen her or have you not?"

"I have. And somebody needs to come pick her up."

"So what did you do? Send one of your henchmen to get her?"

"I did no such thing!" Carson can't help it as his anger spills over. "You yourself made such a point that I wouldn't want anything to do with Mackenzie, now you accuse me of taking her? Why would I?"

"Who knows. I don't have the mind of a criminal. Ransom? Just to make a point?"

Carson rolls his eyes. "Look, just send somebody over here to get her, alright?"

"There have been storms here, Mr. Banks. It will be at least tomorrow morning before someone can be there. I suggest you take Mackenzie to your local social services office in order for her to receive proper care until the morning."

"I..."

"Either that, or I will call the local authorities and have you arrested. You take Mackenzie down to social services the moment you hang up. Do you understand me?"

Carson tries to collect his thoughts as quickly as possible. "Why aren't you calling the authorities now, Miss Jones?"

"Call it the benefit of the doubt."

"That's hard to believe."

"Someone will be in town directly in the morning. They will come to your place of work and expect to pick up Mackenzie there. If you or the girl are not found, you will wind up behind bars before you know it."

The click on the line makes Carson growl as he slams down the receiver. He knew exactly what Heather was doing. It was obvious now. She wasn't going to call the police because she knew good and well that he hadn't taken Mackenzie, and she was banking on that fact to be confident he would not do anything to harm the girl either. More than likely, this "Mr. Smith" was keeping an eye on him somewhere, just to be on the safe side. Heather was devious, but Carson wouldn't want to believe she'd allow a child to be harmed. But... if he didn't take Mackenzie somewhere by morning, she would have him in trouble anyway - and in deep trouble.

But... Carson groans and leans against the wall. God, what am I supposed to do now? What are you doing to me?

If he didn't turn Mackenzie over to social services, he would be in deep trouble. But if he did, she would be put through an unnecessary ordeal that would upset her even more than she already was. And she wasn't at fault. Wouldn't that be harsh? No... he had to. He had to follow the rules by the letter, or else Heather would have him in trouble so quickly it would make his head swim.

Turning back to the phone, he dials TJY's infirmary, thankful when he hears Misty answer the phone. "Hey, Babe, it's me. Listen, I need your help... I'm in a bit of a jam. Can you come down to the restaurant?"


Climbing up onto a large rock, Kyle stands, looking out across the rippling lake. It brought back swift memories of home. He takes a deep breath, taking in the fresh air. He saw Jen and Phil, smiling and laughing, spending time on the little sandy beach. He saw the fun times with friends... Katie, Jason and Mike. He saw Misty and their favorite lookout point.

"Kyle!"

The scenes faded before Kyle's eyes, and he was once again at Coral Lake in Wyoming. he turns around, looking down at the group. It takes him a moment to come back to reality, and another moment for his usual smile to return. He waves at Myla. "Yeah?"

"We got the food ready. You joining us or what?"

"Uh-huh." Kyle nods, but turns back around, not quite ready to get down yet.

Myla sighs. "He okay? He's had a lot of these moments lately."

"He's alright. Take it easy on him," Hunter advises. Those on the bus had discovered Kyle's frequent ups and downs during the trip, though he himself seemed unaware of his mood swings. No one drew attention to it, and no one was upset over it. They accepted Kyle like anyone else, though if asked, they might admit he was a little different to work with than originally thought. But no one would ever want him off the team. He was a valuable teammate, and even more valuable a friend. Hunter gives a little nod, knowing in a few minutes, Kyle would be back.

Sure enough, two minutes later, Kyle comes bounding back to the group, barging in on the picnic lunch. "Now this is a rest stop."

"Here here," Heath agrees, lifting up his bottle of lemonade.

"Mmm..." Kyle takes a bite of his sandwich. "Who's the cook?"

Myla raises her hand.

"Oh, you sweet woman." Kyle slings his arm around her, planting a kiss on her cheek.

"Heeeey," Jordan growls teasingly.

Kyle steps back and holds up his hands, grinning. "Just a friendly thank you, there, killer."

Jordan laughs. "Just be sure you keep it that way."

The teasing continues, and Kyle winds up flopping down on the ground next to Alice, stealing one of her potato chips.

No, Laura!

Looking around the room Herb gives a short chuckle as he shakes his head a little.

"The best it can be I guess, though I hate sitting still and thats what they are making me do here. Not to mention Mable cant make me clean here."

"I hurd that Herbert."

Giving a cringes another laugh comes forth and a smile at his wife his eyes show much life still aside form what he has been through.

"Oh nothing dear..no no nothing at all."

Looking back to Carson Herb gives a wink.

Sitting at the quiet restront with Laura Nate was enjoying the small talk. Being here now, its not what he planed but he wasnt disapointed eather.

As the talking shift though Nate can feel the tone in Laura's voice change and see the look in her eye was more serous now.

Nate couldnt help but feel a little bit a nervousness rise inside of himself. He didnt want it to but it just happend. Maybe it was the unknowing of what Laura needed to talk so serous with him about.

Listing to Laura stays quiet. He didnt want to intarupt her or cut her off not when she had something like this to say. Giving nods here and there was all he did to let her know he was listing.

Taking everything in that she said Nate just listened till finally she was finished. Staying silent for a moment Nate works everything through in his head till finally he looks up at Laura. He felt alot of things at the moment and the emotion could be seen in his eye.

"No Laura, I am sorry I dont to start over."

Giving a small sigh Nate reaches out across the table and takes Laura's hand in his.

"I would just like to start from where we left off, and continue to let outself change and grow. I love you so much Laura I could never turn you away."

Running a finger down the side of her face Nate just smiles as he looks into Laura's eyes his love pouring out of them.

"I'll never regret getting sick and kissing you. It was the best thing that ever happend to me.

Looking down at the young girl a smile forms on her face. Something about the girl reminded her of Carson but she wasnt to sure why. She remembered heading about Carson's daughter but only in passing.

"No, he's not here right now, but he should be back shortly if you would like to wait."

Giving another smile Aerith looks around the dinner and than back at the girl as she leans on the counter.

"Would you like a milkshake? Its on the house!"

Looking

Carson grins. "Well I just hope I can live up to your expectations, Herb. I... can't thank you enough. I'm still kinda shocked, but this means... it means a lot to me." He gives a little sigh, but it's one of contentment. "Wait 'til Dani hears about this. She's gonna make me pay more rent." He laughs.

He shakes his head and looks around the room, feeling the opportunity to switch subjects before he had to go, and before he had to think of anything else to say in regards to his accepted offer that was making him just a smidge uncomfortable. "They treating you alright in here?"


Laura giggles and accepts Nate's arm. "We shall. For your stomach's sake." With a quick stop to get her purse, she follows Nate outside, keeping her arm linked with his until they get to his car.

It doesn't take them long to settle in at the little restaurant, both able to order quickly, and enjoy the quiet of the little corner table. Conversation is kept light, with nothing in particular discussed until there is a pause, and Laura seems to grow quiet before speaking again.

"Nate..." Laura takes a bite of her salad and chews it thoughtfully. So many things ran through her mind... so many feelings. Ryder's words continue to bounce around in her head, colliding with her own thoughts and conclusions.

Giving a little sigh, she twirls her fork in her lettuce. "I've been thinking... a lot."

She rolls her eyes at her own hesitance and she finally looks up at Nate. "I know I haven't been the greatest person to be around lately... person... friend... girlfriend." She holds up a hand before he can respond. "Don't tell me otherwise, because I know it's the truth. This Bryce incident hasn't helped matters, but I'm setting that aside."

She sighs again, trying to collect her thoughts. "I know I haven't been fair to you lately either. No... I take that back. I haven't been fair to you from the very beginning."

Looking down for a moment, she thinks back over all the things she'd decided to say...that she'd been wanting to say. After talking to Ryder today, then once again seeing Nate's deep affections, she knew she should take this chance before it was too late.

"After this whole thing with... with Bryce... I, um... I realized that... maybe I don't have quite the handle on myself or my life like I thought I did. I used to be pretty confident.... in myself, my work... but as the world around me moved on, looking back now, I see that I failed to grow as time passed. I was hired at TJY because I was good at what I did... because I wouldn't take no for an answer, and I could beat up most of the guys."

She grins a little before going on. "And all that was great, working with Con, Jamie, Jason, and sometimes you. But then as my job shifted, I didn't. I got lost in my own little world, somewhere along the way, and I started getting confused about who I was. I didn't see it at the time, but I do now."

Laura leans back in her chair and plays with her napkin in her lap. She lets her eyes roam for a moment, trying to put words to her feelings, and finally looks back to Nate again. "Then you came along." A little laugh escapes and she shakes her head. "I had no idea you were watching me, and then when you got sick and you hauled off and kissed me..."

Her amusement is genuine and it sparkles in her eyes as she smiles. "I couldn't imagine anyone wanting me enough to pursue me like you did. All I'd ever had was men after the wrong sort of things, with Con standing behind me, my shelter with a big warning sign ready for any man with guts enough to approach me."

She shakes her head again. "But you won out. Through all the trouble I put you through, you stuck it out like no one ever did." Her smile starts to fade, though the look in her eye was one of peace, not resentment, not fear, not heartache. It was a look that had been absent for a long time.

"And it was then that I started falling to pieces. On the inside. While you were offering me love and stability, every time I saw you, I crumbled. I liked to hide it. I liked to pretend that I was just playing hard to get. But... looking back... I know that the fact was, that you shook up my world enough that I was beginning then to question myself and who I was. I wasn't supposed to need anybody - I was strong enough. Yet I felt like I was starting to need you. I wasn't supposed to want anybody - I was just fine on my own. Yet I felt like I was starting to want to spend all my time with you."

A little laugh escapes before she grows sober again. "It scared me because I wasn't used to feeling those things... even though I wanted them, they made me feel out of control. So in order to stay in control, I pulled back all the harder, making it all the more difficult for you. I thought that... I could have both."

She nods, showing that she had found the truth of her own actions. "I thought that I could be stubborn and as self-reliant as always and have you at the same time. But... I was too immature to realize that in order to gain freedom in love, I needed to give up a portion of that independence. In order to gain the confidence and strength in love, I needed to give up the reliance on myself. And..."

She shakes her head, brave enough to continue looking Nate in the eye. "...I didn't see those things then like I do now. I didn't see that I was pushing you away and making things so difficult for you. I saw sometimes how I hurt your feelings, yet I was too selfish to change. It wasn't a lack of love or a lack of want for a relationship... it was simply because I didn't want to try and change. I didn't want to make the effort. It was hard for me to get past my own need to take care of myself, and my own pride. Even then, because of the turmoil it caused, I just wound up breaking down and feeling like a child all the time. Which... in turn... made me pull away all the more... especially when you proposed to me."

Laura pauses, taking a sip of her iced tea to regroup a little bit. Taking a deep breath, she lets out out slowly. "Then... after all this mess... something finally clicked. It feels like I got a swift kick upside the head, and... I want to apologize."

She nods. "I want to apologize for all I've put you through from the very beginning, not just lately. I feel as though my eyes have been opened and I'm just now able to see that while I thought at the time I was in control, really... I wasn't. While I thought my stubbornness was a sign of strength, really... it wasn't."

Her eyes study Nate's, hoping that her words were making sense. For in her mind, they did. The answers had appeared, as clearly as day, after so much thought, prayer, and words of her friends, old and new. "I haven't ever really been myself with you, Nate. Instead of letting confidence and strength support my actions, I let them stand in the way and dictate my actions. Instead of letting myself love and live without fear, I hid behind fear, but labeled it as independence or even let my brother take the blame. In an awful paradox... because of my own pride and stubbornness, I let fear cloud my judgment, and I let independence rule my relationships. And so..."

Laura pauses again, giving her words time to sink in. "...So looking back, I can tell that I never really have just let myself be me. Which, ironically, was what I was trying to be all along."

A sadness enters her eyes, realizing the truth of the matter. But today, the peace remained. She had let go of her fear, somewhere along the way. Through recovering from a tragic and frightening experience, she had learned more about herself than ever before. And while the revealed truth was not something that felt good, it was indeed the truth that must be faced.

She swallows hard, now at the end, and not really knowing what would come next. But she'd started this thing, and she needed to see it through.

"Um... so... I guess..." She gives a little shrug. "I don't know what to do now," she admits. She offers the best smile she can. "I've said for so long now that I love you... and I don't want you to think that that part was never true - because it was. But it's been a reserved love... a love that's only been allowed to go so far before I yanked it back in order to keep it from opening up my walls. You, on the other hand... you've loved me freely, and have opened yourself up to everything, pain and all, because you're simply that generous and willing to sacrifice for me."

A tear appears in Laura's eye. "Never have I felt more humbled, Nate." A small smile surfaces once more. "And... all that to say... I'd like to start over." She gives a nod. "If you say no, I'll understand, because I've made you wait so very long already. But... I want a chance to give you the real me... the me that should have been there all along. I... can't promise the outcome, but I'm not gonna try to. All I can ask for is one more shot. Will you... give me that chance?"

She can't help a light chuckle. "If you say yes, I promise not to make you get sick in order to steal the first kiss again."


The bell above the door at Mom and Pop's rings. It's fairly quiet inside, but a few people have ventured out for their morning coffee. No one seems to pay much attention to the newcomer. Her short height helped aid her in going unnoticed. She stops just inside and looks around, squinting as her eyes roam the faces. Not finding who she was looking for, she heads boldly to the counter. She can just see over it and puts her arms up on it, helping boost herself up just a little more until she can see the woman at the register.

"Hi." Her big blue eyes stare at Aerith with question. "Is Carson Banks here?"

*blinks*

Studying Carson's eye for a long moment Herb can tell Carson ment what he said. There was no changing his mind. Herb wouldnt trust the restront in anyone elses hands.

"I am happy you said yes. Once I get out of here we can draw up the papers, and on the slower days we can go over a few things."

Though Herb didnt say it he was excited and look forward to teaching Carson things about the business. It was like the son he had always wanted and God had provided even if it wasnt what he had exspected.

"This going to be a whole new adventure for me too Carson. I know you will do great."

Looking at Laura Nate grins feeling warm and fuzzy inside that Laura liked the gifts. It was nothing big but if it put a smile on her face than thats what mattered.

"Mmmm...you could starve me as long as I got to spend a little time with you."

Nate stomach at that moment makes a loud gigaling sounds as he looks down and than back at Laura.

"I guess my stomach disagres with me so I guess we should feed it."

Standing and grabbing his jacket Nate throws it on and than hold out his arm to Laura.

"Mi lady shall we?"

Then you would have...

Luke smiles up at Angel, giving her a little nod. Though in his mind, he was already deciding that he would be staying awake for the trip home. He wasn't going to let Angel out of his sight until he knew she was safely back home. Not to mention, if he slept, he knew his energy would diminish, and he needed all of it right now, just to be able to keep on his feet and keep walking without worrying Angel.

"Alright." He gets up from the chair and grabs his bag. "Let's go find Gunner and get ourselves out of here. At this rate, we'll be home for supper."


Seeing the pleasure in Herb's eyes was enough for Carson to say yes to anything. He nods slowly, swallowing a lump in his throat. "Yeah... yeah, I'm sure."

Something tugged on the back of his mind, and something prodded his heart just a little bit. He knew what it was. He knew what it meant. He knew. But he closed his mind to it. For once... for once, he would think of someone else, and would be glad to do it.

His eyes return to Herb's. He would not mention Reese. He would not mention the other opportunity he had, to get back onto the Elite team. It was a pain he wasn't sure he'd ever felt before, because while it hurt, there were results that made him feel good, like he'd done something worthwhile for once.

"It would be an honor," he states with confidence. "I'd argue with you that I'm not good enough for the job, but I know that wouldn't get me anywhere." He grins a little. "It'll be nice to have the stability... I don't have to pretend that I haven't needed that in my life."

For the briefest of moments, Mackenzie's face flashes in his mind. Stability and being a father were two things that seemed to go hand-in-hand.

He shakes the thoughts from his mind, and just as quickly as they had been there, they were gone. "You and Mabel are going to have to teach me a lot... I may know how to make food taste good by now, but I certainly don't know how to run a business." A smile spreads. "I think I can remember a bit of math."


"...so I've kinda been working a little more." Scott sits in the familiar chair across from Hope, not really knowing what else to day. He'd told her that he'd gone to work by himself that morning, and that he was interacting with people at TJY just a little more now. The fear was slowly subsiding, and he wasn't sure just what else he needed to talk about now.


Laura walks from Susanne's office, her hands full of papers. In the copy room, back to Susanne's, to Reese, back to the copy room, then to see Jason, stop by Wyatt's desk, get information from Sapphire, then another round, landing her back in Reese's office for a good long while, only to discover that there were files she'd taken home with her the night before, that she now needed. Unfortunately, she'd forgotten to bring them back in.

Rolling her eyes at herself, she makes her way back across the main floor, fishing her keys out of her pocket. She wasn't even going to bother grabbing her purse.

Heading at a fast pace towards the exit, she only stops momentarily at Nate's cubicle. They'd both been at work all morning, but had hardly had time to say hi to each other. "Forgot stuff at home," she says quickly. "When I get back, we can run for a late lunch if you haven't withered away to nothing by then." Walking backward, she throws Nate a smile before spinning around to continue her route.

The ride home is a short one, and she makes it in good time. Getting inside, she shuts the door behind herself, tossing her keys on the table as she heads for her room.

On her way though, she spots Ryder in the bathroom. He looked like he'd been up for quite a while, fully dressed and awake. But his clothes were a little messy, and he was leaning over the sink, his face covered partway with what looked like a cold cloth. Laura pauses. "Ryder?"

"Mm-hmm," he mumbles, but doesn't look up.

Laura's eyes narrow as she frowns. "Something wrong?"

"Uh-uh." He still refuses to look up, shaking his head just a little.

Laura sighs. "Men," she grumbles. "You're all the same." Boldly, she enters the bathroom, reaching under his bent form to shut off the water in the sink. "What's wrong? Are you sick? Hurt?"

Ryder straightens just a little, but keeps the cloth in place. "I walked to the store." His words are still quietly mumbled. "Wanted to replace some stuff in the fridge."

"And?" Laura cocks her head. "So what?"

Ryder finally sighs and lets his hand drop, revealing his face.

Laura's eyes widen at his swollen black eye and split lower lip. "My goodness, what happened?"

Ryder shakes his head and turns the water back on to rinse out the cloth. "Kid was picking on an old lady. I intervened. He attacked me."

"Wrong place, wrong time." Laura sighs. She could tell by Ryder's speech that his mouth hurt. "Then what?"

"I won. Cops came. I told 'em I was Elite, so they let me go."

"And here you are."

"Here I am."

Laura shakes her head. "Do you look for trouble, or does it just follow you around?"

Ryder puts the cloth back to his hurting face. "I have no idea."

"Well come on... you're not going to do a whole lot of good taking care of yourself that way."

After convincing Ryder to let her take care of him, fifteen minutes later, he's on the living room couch, lying on his back with an ice pack on his eye.

Laura folds her arms as she looks down at him. "Now... just stay out of trouble for the rest of the day, will you? If you're that insistent about the food, we'll shop tonight and you can come along as my bodyguard."

Ryder gives a little smirk. "Yeah, alright. Just figured I oughta earn my keep until I find my own place."

Laura bites her lip and thinks for a moment. "You're... welcome to stay, ya know."

Ryder lifts the ice pack to see her more clearly. "Me, stay here, indefinitely, with two women? Don't you think that looks a bit odd?"

"Not if we work it out the right way." Laura shrugs. "I could move my bedroom down here into the office we never use. Then you could have the upstairs to yourself. There's only a half-bath up there, but there's two rooms and a nice closet. It's not like you'd be staying with a single woman, and that way we'd be on separate floors."

Ryder quirks an eyebrow out of habit, but lets it drop again as it hurts more than he thought it would. The thought was appealing. Katie was really the only friend he had right now, and Laura was quickly becoming a friend too. It felt nice not to be completely on his own at the moment. But still... "And Nate wouldn't mind?"

It's Laura's turn to lift her eyebrows. "He better trust me more than that."

Ryder's mouth curls up into a little grin. "Sure, but does he trust me?"

"I have no idea." Laura shrugs. "But he does trust me, and Katie too, so... I don't see a problem. Unless you do want to leave, then of course, that's fine."

Ryder shifts his weight a little, in a better position to look up at her. "So gonna marry him?"

Laura's jaw drops. "I thought we were talking about living arrangements."

"We were. I changed the topic. Nate's name made me think of it."

"Well I hardly think it's any of your business."

"No, it's probably not." Ryder can't help the spark in his eye. "So?"

Laura lowers herself to sit on the coffee table, her arms still crossed. "So what?"

"Are you?"

Laura would walk away from anybody else. But it was hard with Ryder. Something about him just forced her to trust him and not be upset or afraid to talk to him. "I don't know."

Ryder just studies her for a moment, finally putting the ice back over his one eye. "If everything around you came crashing down... if you lost your job, your home, and your brother moved away... who would you want to hold you?"

Laura blinks. What kind of a question was that? "I... what?"

"You heard me."

She thinks again. "Well I guess..." Only one face came to mind. "I guess Nate." She could already feel his strong arms around her, holding her, just letting her cry on his shoulder, and helping her weather the storm.

"Then why are you waiting?"

Again, Laura is taken off guard. "Because.... because I... well... I mean... what if it wouldn't work? What if I said yes and five years down the road we just couldn't get along and things went wrong? What if I messed things up? What if he would decide he couldn't stand me any more? What if circumstances drove us apart? Then what?"

Ryder doesn't miss a beat. His stare pierces Laura's gaze with intensity. "Then you would have had five years of love and life you never would have experienced otherwise." He shakes his head slowly. "I can tell you love him, and it's obvious he loves you too. There's no way you could wind up hating each other. Why not step out now and take the chance before it's too late? Why not take the chance that you will be this in love for the rest of your lives? If you back away now, you'll never know. And even if does fail, then you've only gained the experience of loving so deeply that you were willing to risk it all..."


...Laura slips back into her cubicle, letting out a long sigh. The morning had been long, it was completely gone, the noon hour was over and she was hungry, knowing she needed to go see Nate so they could go to lunch. While her stomach was empty though, her mind was very full.

Sitting down at her desk, she suddenly notices the gift from Nate, unaware that it had been there for quite a while already, waiting for her.

A smiles slowly spreads on her face. She picks up the rose and puts it to her nose to breathe in the sweet smell. Then setting it down, she cuddles the teddy bear, nuzzling her face into the soft fur.

Her eyes glance to the handwritten note and she picks it up next, running her thumb over the words. Taking the note, she pins it up on her wall, next to other notes that Nate had written her. Some were silly, some were cute, others showed his love.

Setting the gift down she looks at the rose again, then across the floor to Nate's desk. She could just make out the top of his head, and knew he was there. She stands up and slowly makes her way over to him. Her hands slip into her pockets and when she arrives at his cubicle, she leans on the doorway a little, just watching him work for a moment. Withdrawing one hand, she knocks on the wall, getting his attention.

Looking into his eyes, she studies him for a long moment until a smile creases her lips. "Thank you. I needed that today. Now are we gonna go to lunch, or have I starved you to death?"

Package

Looking back at Carson Herb's face lights up. Hearing that Carson would take this oppertunity put Herb a bit at ease about what would happen to Mom and Pop's and he new now it would be in good hands. But before they continued he had to make sure this is what Carson really wanted.

"Your sure Carson? You dont need time to think about it? I just dont want you to jump on something quickly and than later on down the road kick yourself in the butt. That would hurt me more than maybe seeing the restront close."

Herb continues to watch Carson and the excitment was evadint in his own eyes about what the future would continue to hold for him. This would be a whole new experince and Herb was excited to let it happen.

"Well thats good that at least you have an income coming in. I know if you didnt that might be a little harder on you. So I am happy for that. The money is there anyways in the little jar if you need any extra. Laura and I always take turns putting money in there incase we are in a tight bind or anything."

Going to the fridge Katie opens it and grabs an apple she dubs as her lunch today. Taking a bit out of it. Turning to see Ryder run to the bathroom Katie shakes her head a little and laughs.

"If you need anything call me, and I might call u later as well to see if your feeling better to come in."

Aiming for the door Katie trys to block out the sound of Ryder in the bathroom shutting the door behind her.

Angel gives a sigh not getting anymore information from Reese. She new that she wouldnt but it had been worth a try anyways and now they were leaving without Jeff.

"Ok, I'll let them know. Thanks."

Though her eyes were a bit sad she turns to Luke and gives a nod.

"I'm ready to go, and I hope you sleep some on the plane you look so tired."

Running a quick hand through his hair Angel gives him a kiss before turning to Rick again.

"Thank you again and if you guys ever need help please let me know. Let Misty know thank you again as well."

Watching Laura without her knowing it Nate gives a smile as he watches her get up and leave her desk. This was the moment he had been waiting for.

Standing from his desk Nate reaches into the draw and pulls out a backage that held bright pink color roses wrapped in a pretty white and red paper along with a stuffed white teddy bear. Placying them both on Laura desk with a little note that said "I love you." Nate smiles turning to walk back to his own desk.

Ache

Carson sits a little straighter, sensing that Herb had something important to tell him. He couldn't imagine what, but he respected Herb more than most anybody, so he was all ears.

As the words sink in though, Carson's eyes start to widen, his jaw dropping. He blinks, completely dumbfounded. He'd known that there was the possibility that Herb wouldn't be able to do as much... and he'd even thought about the extra hours he might have to put in. But... ownership?

This was more than just an offer... it was a privilege... an honor. This was an offer that belonged to family... Mom and Pop's was a part of the Franklin family...

But as Carson looks at Herb, he suddenly realizes that whether he was blood family or not, he had earned this place of honor. This offer should have been going to the son that Herb and Mabel never had. And that thought alone caused the emotions to surface in Carson's eyes. Herb had become his mentor... his guide... and in a way, he'd been a father to him. They had never spoken of it... but it was there, and this proved it.

"Herb, I..." Carson stops, swallowing hard. Was he really capable of this? And where did this put Reese's own offer to him? Was it now down to one or the other? And if he chose one, was that the point of no return?

He lets out the long breath he'd been holding, and leans back in the chair, still in shock. "I don't know what to say," he finally admits. "Ownership? It's... wow." He could barely even process the thought.

Letting his eyes drift downward, he thinks for a moment before looking back up at Herb. He knew how important the restaurant was to him. And Carson knew good and well that if he said no, there would be no one else. Closing Mom and Pop's would surely age Herb more than anything, more than likely harming his health even more. Not to mention, it would also hurt their income.

Reese's offer lingers in the back of Carson's mind. He could almost taste the action he wanted. The missions... the adventure... doing what he was best at.

He looks back to Herb, searching his eyes. An ache settled in his heart. But he saw the answer clearly.

"I accept."


Ryder grimaces, still holding his stomach, and even now feeling even worse, learning that apparently his tongue had been loosened without him even knowing it. Who knows what he'd told Katie.

"Yeah, yeah... no trouble." He waves her off. "And Reese has me back on the payroll, so I've got money, don't worry about it."

He thinks for a moment, contemplating the day ahead. "If you have anything I could do at TJY later... call me or something. I could..." He suddenly stops, his eyes squinting a little. "...or maybe not." Spinning around, he aims for the bathroom, where the consequences of yesterday's binge would catch up to him.


Reese is ready to leave the infirmary, but stops as Angel questions him. He slowly shakes his head. "I'm sorry... no, I can't give you any more information. You would have been able to say goodbye to him, but as I said, he's not even here."

He purses his lips grimly. "You can tell people back in Texas that he had a job to do. That's all I can say."

Questions

Jumping over the back of the couch and slidding down next to Ryder Katie shakes her head and gives a giggle as she looks at Ryder.

"Are you sure its not the lousy Aussie that cant handle the American Liquer?"

Katie looks to Henry and leans over giving him a little pat on the head as if telling him thanks for telling her.

"You dont remember talking to me last night when I got home eh? I came in here looking for something and you sat up and had a full conversation with me. I have to admit it was a bit funny as you slewed your words and told me what you had been up to all day."

Following Ryder to the kitchen now Katie grabs a chair and sits down in it to bend over and tie her shoes. Than standing again she grabs her leather jacket from the back of the chair and throws it on pulling her now long hair from the back.

"I left a little money on the able by the front door so if you need anything or want anything to eat. I dont think I will be at work late tonight so if you need to go anyway just let me know. And try to stay out of trouble today eh?"

Turning there head in unison as Carson enters the room. Giving a smile Carson and than to her dad Jamie stands giving him a kiss on the head.

"I am going to head into work. Con said something about stoping by to see you in a little bit so if mom wants to go home and get some sleep he can keep you company ok?"

Jamie looks to her dad with worry in her eyes. She couldnt help but worry but she had to have faith that he would be alright.

Giving his daughter a pat on the head Herb smiles.

"I'll be fine dear go to work."

Once Jamie is gone Herb turns to Carson and gives a smile and a shake of his head.

"I only look good because I am not covered in sweat and smell like grease!"

Laughing a little Herb is thrown into a coughing fit that last for a few moment before it finally subsides. Paying not attachen to it though Herb continues his conversation.

"Yeah I guess I did huh? I think I scaired myself a little bit too."

Intarupting Herb for just a moment Mable stands giving him a small nod knowing he wanted to talk to Carson.

"I am going to run home and take a shower fast. I'll be in a little while."

Smiling and noding to Mable Herb waits till her is out of the room and nods at Carson to sit down his face becoming a little more searous. What was to come next was going to be hard but Herb new it was for the best.

"Carson, I have something I wanted to talk to you about. The Dr has told me I need to take it alot easyer than I have been. I'm putting to much stress on myself and I'm not as young as I use to be."

Herb takes a deep breath as he continues to look at Carson so much emotions was whittled in his own eyes.

"The restront is my life but I just for my own health I cant run it alone anymore. Over the last year you have grown so much Carson and I have been giving you more and more responcablity. You have been doing well. Aerith also called and told me about how you handled the restront so well. And I am so proud of you Carson."

A small smile forms on Herb's lips as his eyes sparkle proving he was happy with Carson and how much he had grown.

"So, I had a propasition for you and if you wanted to take it anyways. I would like to give Mom and Pop's to you so you will be the new owner. Now that dosnt mean that Mable and I wont still be there I'll still have a small sliver of the ownership and I'll come in to help a few hours a day but not nearly as much as I do now. That was if anything even happen to me I know the restront will be taken care of. Because I know it will be in good hands with someone I know will make the right desitions. I already talked to the family and they all agreed you deserved this. If you wanted to take this opertunity up. With how much is invested in that place and the business we have been getting in there I know you will be set for life to have yourself a good one."

Looking to Luke Angel gives a small laugh as she zips up her own bag and makes sure she has everything.

"I am sure I will be forced to take it easy by many people. Not that I mind all the people looking out for me."

Walking over to Misty's desk Angel lays a few papers on it so when came in she had them. Before she had gotten to sick Angel was able to look up a few things on her research with the nerve damage repair.

Turning to Luke as he makes the comment about finding Jeff Angel is about to say something when Reese comes in the door.

Just looking at him for a long moment Angel gives a blink taking in his words. What was he talking about?

"What do you mean Jeff wont be leaving with us? I mean I understand you cant tell us but...why? Dont we have a right to know whats going on?"

Angel gives a sigh as she looks between Luke, Rick and than back to Reese.

"We cant even say good bye? What are we to tell everyone back home when they ask about him? Cant you give us just a little information on this?"

All I have to do

Ryder pulls himself up into a sitting position, and reaches around to accept the glass from Katie. He grimaces, but downs the liquid anyway. "Lousy American liquor," he mutters.

Setting the glass down, he shakes his head. "No... guess I don't need to go anywhere, unless you know where I can pick me up a new head."

He tries to wake up, blinking. How had Katie known he'd been drinking? He looks at Henry, shaking a finger at him. "Never tattle on a mate." Stretching, he stands up, stifling a yawn, and looking at Katie. "And by the way, I'm not stupid... I'm just resourceful when looking for something to cure my boredom."

Trudging to the kitchen, Ryder opens the refrigerator door, scanning the contents, looking for something for breakfast. But as he does, his stomach gives a lurch, reacting to the alkaceltzer. He puts a hand to his stomach and tries to wait out the nausea, letting the refrigerator door fall shut again. "On second though..." He doubles over slightly. "Maybe I am stupid."


Carson grins and nods. "Alright, I'll tell him. When you're out of work, stop by Mom and Pop's." He slips on his tennis shoes and grabs his jacket, heading for the door. Slapping his baseball cap on, he turns around one more time, opening his mouth to say something, but then seems to change his mind. "See you later, Sassy."

He could have asked for a ride, but he needed a good run to clear his head anyway. After walking for one block, then stopping to stretch, it was a sprint the rest of the way back to his and Dani's place. Once there it was a quick shower, change of clothes and a ride from his sister to get him to the hospital...

Carson slowly approaches the room, hoping he was at the right one, and peeks in cautiously. Seeing Mabel nearby and Herb in the bed, a small smile spreads. He enters and wanders over to the bed, sinking down in one of the chairs, but first giving Mabel a wave. "Well now... you don't look so bad after all." He grins at Herb, trying to cover up the real worry he felt. "I must say, you know how to scare a bunch of people."


Luke throws the last couple items of the few belongings he had with him in his backpack and zips it shut. "Well... I'm ready whenever we need to go." Moving a bit slowly, he tries not to let Angel notice how difficult it was for him this morning, being on his feet. He sinks into a chair instead of standing any longer.

Rick smiles as he gives Angel one last check over. "And I'll give you the okay to go whenever you need, too. I'll let you travel, but when you get home, I want you to make sure you take it easy for a couple days yet." He looks to Luke. "Make sure of that, will you?"

Luke forces a smile through his tiredness. "All I have to do is tell that to Rosetta, and no one will let Angel work until she's able."

He sighs and glances at the clock. "Jeff hasn't said a word to me yet this morning. I have no idea where he is, but I need to find him to let him know we'll be leaving today."

"You won't have to."

Luke looks up quickly, seeing Reese in the doorway. "What?"

"I said you won't have to." Reese is fairly solemn. "Jeff won't be going back with you."

Luke's eyes widen and he looks to Angel, then back to Reese. "Well why not? What's going on?"

"As far as everyone is concerned, he's simply not on any agendas anymore. And that's as much as can be said."

Stunned, Luke is speechless. He blinks. "But... what... I don't understand."

"You don't have to." Reese gives a nod of reassurance.

"You mean we can't even say goodbye?"

"He's not even here anymore."

Luke's pulse quickens. "But..."

Reese shakes his head. "That's all I can say."

whispers

Slowly coming up to the back of the couch Katie looks over at Ryder and Henry and just shakes her head. Lowering down to him some water with alcaselcer in it.

"Here is a cure for a hang over for those who are stupid."

Katie cant help the smile the forms on her face as she rolls her eyes and stratens up again to finish getting ready for work.

"Do you need me to take you anywhere before i leave again?"

Feeling Carson's wormth underneath her Misty snuggles in a little more enjoying the moment. She had slept so well, and it was something she hadnt had in so long it felt good.

But the moment dosnt last to long as Carson moves and launches Misty off the couch and landing in his arms and placed on the couch again. Giving a chuckle she shakes her head.

"Morning, Afternoon and see you tonight!!!"

Misty leans up to give Carson a kiss on the lips.

"Let Herb know I said to get better soon and I will see u tonight. I am only taking a half day of work."

Jamie on Herb's left and Mable on his right quietly they talk. The conversation was a tense one as many desitions hung in the arm.

"..If you trust him than thats what matters...."

"..I do.."

"..He has proven himself.."

Sugary went good for Herb though the Dr. had now put restrictons on him. Things were going to change and though he was strong and new God would lead he was still unsure of how it would be for him. This was his life, and to let it go would be hard.

"..I think he will be ready.."

"..And its not like we are going to be gone.."

"..We just wont be doing as much.."

"..Your really sure about this.."

"..Yes I am not as young as I use to be.."

And so the conversation continues, and desitions would be made. For this family life would change.

Morning

Jason hugs Katie a little tighter, finally straightening to see her face once more. Reaching up, he wipes away her tear with his thumb, just looking her in the eye for a moment. Then bringing her in close, he presses his lips to hers in a passionate kiss, his arms wrapped around her as if never wanting to let her go.

I love you too... just the way you are.

"Jason?" The intercom on his phone carries Reese's voice.

Jason withdraws from Katie, but only to shift his head and return to the kiss, not to listen to his boss.

"Jason?"

He continues to ignore it, his hand giving Katie's back a gentle rub.

"Hello?"

Jason finally pulls back, giving Katie a couple more light kisses before reaching for his phone. He keeps Katie on his lap though, still holding her with one arm. "Yeah" He quirks an annoyed eyebrow. "Alright. Be right there."

He hangs up and sighs, taking Katie's hands in his. "The boss summons. We'll pick this back up later." He grins a little, a slight mischievous glint returning to his eye.

Standing up, he lets Katie slide from his lap, and walks her to the door to part until later.


Luke nods at Angel. "I think he's had time to visit with her. Though Katie was one of the team to Australia, so she hasn't been around here this whole time."

Taking a deep breath, he lets it out slowly. His eyes were so tired. His head hurt, and his body ached from head to toe. But he couldn't rest yet... no, not yet.


Carson grins at Misty's response. "I think I can handle that."

Finishing up their meal, he's more than happy to escort Misty out of the diner and go back to her place. Settling down in the living room with her, in front of the television, it was one of Carson's favorite times. No distractions. No noise. No business. No work. Just him and Misty, wrapped up in his arms...


Ryder stretches and yawns, but winces a little as his head throbs. Henry jumps up on him, and he groans, not appreciating the cat's attention this morning.

Rolling over, he looks at the clock. It was later than normal. He thought maybe he remembered hearing Laura leave a little earlier. Had Katie gone yet too? He had no idea. He really didn't remember a whole lot about getting inside last night either. He thought he'd dozed off out on the porch and it must have been Laura who had let him in the house. And after that.... it was pretty much a blank.

Sighing, he lets his hand flop down on the cat to scratch Henry's head. What was he going to do today? The same as yesterday? While he'd had fun at the time, he really didn't feel like doing it all over again just yet. Not to mention, as far as he knew, no one else knew what he'd been up to, so the less frequently he did it, the less likely he was to get into trouble. Not that he really could... Reese was barely working on getting him something to do here, so Ryder wasn't even convinced that he'd be able to stick around TJY all that much longer.


One of Carson's eyes cracks open. His mind was in a total fog, and it took him several minutes to even get his bearings. His body expected him to be in his bed, but after thinking, he realized he was not. Then where was he, and who was....

His other eye pops open and he glances down. He was still laying on Misty's couch from the night before, and she was still curled up with him, his arms still around her. He hadn't slept so soundly in ages.

Yawning, he stretches out a little bit, intending on waking Misty gently. But all of a sudden he realizes that he was supposed to be somewhere else right now. He was supposed to be visiting Herb this morning before needing to go open up Mom and Pop's.

"Ohhhh crud." Sitting up quickly, he catches Misty from falling off the couch. Taking her in his arms, he stands up, then deposits her back onto the cushions. Leaning over her, he plants a kiss on her lips. "Morning, babe. I gotta run. I'm late. Sorry."

A smile spreads on his face. "See you tonight?"


Scott eases down behind the desk, letting Domino jump up in his lap. She was used to coming to work with him now, and so was he. She always behaved, and seemed to work extra hard at not getting in Dalton's way.

Scott turns on the computer slowly, his mind seeming to work just as slow this morning. He was gradually feeling better, and gradually gaining confidence. He had walked himself to work this morning instead of being picked up. It hadn't been the greatest experience, but he'd done it, and knew Hope would be proud of him. Hope... he was supposed to see her again this afternoon. He couldn't forget.

Mind

Feeling Jason's arms around her Katie new everything was going to be ok. She felt bad for kissing another man and she new it had been wrong. This was one mistake she would not do over again.

Wrapping her own arms around Jason Katie rests her head on top of his feeling his soft hair on her skin. Time was to short to let it go by so fast and if anything working for TJY and defending aganst The Agency made Katie realize that. She was going to not try and slow time down, but she was going to try and slow her life just a little so she would have more time for the finner things in life, and room to have a little fun.

As Jason's emotions start to flow Katie takes them in. There hadent been a lack of emotions there but for a few days it had been slower and Katie could now feel it as she takes them in quickly almost as if thirsting for them. Than feeling the love Katie's arms tighten around Jason slightly as she turns her head so its in his hair a little more. The feeling of that love was so nice, it was so calming. How she could never get tired of feeling it, and it was a strong reminder that no one alse could ever make her feel this way. All she ever wanted was Jason.

I will J. I never want to truly be anyone elses Hero but yours. I'll make sure I speak up sooner next time. I'd like to try and find more time for just us again, so we can find out laughter again. Maybe even drive Rick a little crazy on the side.

Giving the top of his head a kiss a tear rolls down Katie's face but not from one born of sadness, but one from how she felt, and how happy she really was with Jason.

Thank you, for just being you!

Looking back at Luke Angel gives a slight nod. She understood why they hadnt told Wendy and she was actully thankful for that. She had enough to worry about, and this would only add to her stress and that was not needed right now in her fragel state.

"I understand completely. When we can home we can fill her in and I am sure she will be alright now. She'll be a little upset but than I dont think she will be as upset as if she new I was dieing."

Saying that alowd, hearing the words that she had been actully dieing but a strange look for a moment in Angel's eye. She didnt like the way those woulds sounded and all she could do was praise God once more than he has let her life and continue his work on earth.

"So any idea where Jeff ran off to? Did he have a chanse at all to visit with Katie a little? I am sure she'd like that."

Smiling back at Carson from across the table Misty knows Carson has a lot on his mind. Her own mind felt dead after the nonstop days she had been having. She had to try and remember to ask Reese for some time off.

"Its ok, I'm not the greatest tonight eather. I feel like I am moving without it really registering."

Finishing up her meal Misty puts her napkin on her plate and takes a sip of water washing everything down.

Every moment spent with Carson no matter how long or short Misty loved it and would always try and prolong the time.

"As long as you dont mind me maybe falling asleep in your arms a movie and snaggling sounds prefect."

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.