You know what happens

Carson's head snaps as he hears Sapphire's voice. Caught, there's not much he can do but smirk at her. "Yeah, well just make sure Doc Miller don't know and we'll be fine."

Finishing off his cigarette, he crushes it out on the ground, turning his concentration to what Sapphire had to show him. Learning of Ty, his eyes widen. "What?"

He takes the papers and scans them, making sure Sapphire was right. "Why would he...?" Carson shakes his head. "I just don't get it." He glances at his watch. He'd seen Ty leave about an hour ago, but he'd be back before morning.

"Don't show this to anybody else," Carson directs Sapphire. "I'll tell Reese, but we have to let Ty come back not knowing that we found out. Then we can grab him and question him."


Scott manages to open his one eye and study Hope's face as she talks. He was a little calmer now, but still, having her close and hearing her voice again continued to put him in a more relaxed state.

He shakes his head a little. He wasn't hungry. At best, he was nauseas more than anything else. The thought of food just made his stomach turn.

The offer of Domino makes him stop and think though. But he finally just shakes his head again.

"Ty is checking on her," he responds quietly. "She shouldn't.... be here right now."

Scott searches Hope's eyes for a moment, wishing beyond wishing that just once he could just be himself without needing her help. He was glad she was there, and glad she offered that help, but just once he wanted to be strong enough that he could stand on his own two feet in front of her. But as it sat... he was still on the receiving end... and whether he liked it or not, he needed it. Her company wasn't disliked though. A part of him was not only grateful that she had come, but her presence was so calming.

He takes in a deep breath slowly, wincing at the pain in his ribs that it caused. "I'll still be here though," he finishes lamely. He didn't know how to say that even though he didn't want food and didn't think she should pick up Domino that he still wanted her company during her late supper.


Kyle finally uncovers his face, still laughing. He takes a deep breath, trying to stop, and blinks, looking up at Alice. There was so much running through his mind. All of her prior words, he knew he would revisit in his mind later when he was alone. For now though, another laugh escapes. The silliness was too fun to let go of too quickly. "He's either crushed or I scared him so much he'll never be back. Either way, I'm happy."

The grin on his face is as silly one, the humor twinkling in his eye. His gaze still on Alice, his peripheral vision still sees the fireworks going off in the distance.

For a couple seconds, he's quiet, the moment seeming to grow more solemn, but suddenly another grin breaks out. "You know what happens when you're wet and you roll in the sand, don't you?" He laughs. Sand stuck to everything.

Reaching up, he brushes some sand off the side of Alice's face. As his fingers touch her skin, something flickers in his eyes. The humor felt like it had just been sucked out of the moment, replaced by something completely different. Not bad, but very different.

His eyes catch hers. Why he felt like he'd just done something, wrong, he didn't know. He retracts his arm a little, his hand just hovering near her face, not knowing whether to finish the job or let her do it herself.

Promises. Relationships. Comfort

Standing from her own cubicle Sapphire can just make out Carson leaving the building. Not to sure if he was just steping out for a moment or if He would be gone for sometime she looks down at the papers in hand.

Her scans, and the information she had been going through was complete and she new who's pass code had been used and who did, but the question lied in why? A bunch of mixed emotions ran through her. She though she cold trust everyone in TJY but now with that happend to her brother she felt almost betrayed.

This was to important to wait, if Carson was just getting some air than she would talk to him. Papers in hand Sapphire head up and out of TJY. The cool air felt nice on her skin as she welcomed it into her lungs. The air had gotten stail in TJY so a little change and freshness was nice.

Seeing Carson around the courne Shappire walks that was as well taking note he was on the phone. Waiting till he sliped it back into his pocked she steps around around the courner. A small smile on her face.

"You know smoking dosnt only kill you it kills the earth too."

Not dwelling to much on that fact Sapphire just gives a shake of her head as her looks becomes more stern.

Holding out the papers from Carson she speaks softly but with as much strangth in her voice as Misty, or Jamie proving under the layers there was more to her.

"I finished figureing everything out, and though it took my longer than I exspected I did in facet finish. The resalts are a little saprising and leave me a little confused."

Letting go of the papers while Carson look at them Sapphire rattles off everything that was there as if she had looked at them a million times over.

"It was Ty who opened the door. As to who came in, I dont know. Whoever it was, was cloaked and I couldnt see a face but ask him and I am sure he could tell you."

Though she had told who it was and Carson was smart enough to know she was upset about it a deeper look of trouble was in her eyes.

"What I dont understand though is why he used Katie's number to open the door let alone know what it was. I dont know if maybe he didnt know there was a camra and in using Katie's number he wouldnt be found out I dont know its just a little bit puzzling though."

Letting out a sigh Hope makes her way back to Scott but this time she walks around till she is in front of the table. Squating down Hope becomes eye level with Scott, a small smile on her face.

It had grown late but she didnt really fell tired it was strange how wanting to be with a friend could work like that.

"I am going to stay with you ok? I dont want you to feel alone. However I do need something to eat and I am going to run home and change into something more comfortable. I'd hate to eat dinner alone though so would you like me to bring u something and we could eat together? I could see about stoping by your apartment and getting Domino too."

"We cant always run away from our problems. Sometimes the best thing we can do it look them in the face and over come them. If we keep running we will never be happy."

Alice's eyes held so much of the emotions she felt, sometimes she didnt even relize when he was letting it all show. But it was there, and she new when the time was right she would always say it.

"Home, it can be the place that hold the most dispair, but it can also hold so much comfort. Its the place promises, relationships, and comfort can be found the most. Be lucky Kyle, you still have a family for that. Some people dont have that anymore because they lost the people closest to them, and though they have found joy nothing is quite like a family."

Sadness passed through Alice eyes only for a moment as her words might of hit a little close to home. But soon her mood changed again and at Kyle jumps up and starts dancing around all Alice can do it stair at him for a moment.

Finally relizing what had happend and seeing Kyle start to lose his balance Alice starts to laugh. Asoft low giggle at first that turned into a loud rawr. It was a funny sight and she couldnt help it.

Once Kyle hit the ground Alice got onto her hands and knees to go over to Kyle still laughing. Looking down on him she shakes her head.

"It looks like we had a party crasher, and now you crushed him."

Message

Carson gives a short nod to Hope. "I'll let you be in the same room. If there's any interference though, we'll have to figure something else out."

He glances around Hope to Scott's still form on the bed. He did feel so badly, traitor or not.

"If you think it's best to wait until morning, we can, but we shouldn't wait too much longer than that. He's willing at this point, and that's key. Things are kind of crazy around here right now... so if you want to leave and come back, that's fine. Otherwise you'll just be stuck in here twiddling your thumbs."

"Carson, Gage is back."

Carson looks to the phone where Wyatt's voice was coming from. "Thanks." He turns back to Hope. "I have to go. You decide what you're going to do and we'll go from there."

Spinning around, he heads quickly for the door, breaking into a jog down the hall to get back to the cubicle in time to see if anything had changed with Katie.

Switching places with Wyatt once more, Carson takes up his usual position. Wyatt is all too happy to give him the job back... his feelings for Katie had made the task heart-wrenching.

Carson stares at the screen, seeing Katie writhe under the pain she was in. She would rest, then move, rest, then move. It was obvious that she was so worn out that some kind of sleep or unconsciousness came and went, but when she was alert, the pain had to be unbearable.

From the angle of the camera, Carson could see the acid burns on her skin, and could see the bloody rags wrapped around her hand. Though the picture was somewhat fuzzy, Carson could pick out all of her cuts and bruises, and knew exactly if hands had been used, or brutal tools. He knew the marks all too well.

Seeing that nothing new was occurring, Carson stands again, calling Reese to his post. He couldn't take this any longer.

Slipping from the cubicle once more, this time, Carson heads for the exit. He needed to get some sleep, as ordered, but right now, sleep was the furthest thing from his mind.

As he hits the outdoors, he breathes in the cool night air. Though not cold, it had a sharp feel to it. It was a cruel night. He wanders around to the side of the building, leaning back against the bricks to pull his pack of cigarettes out of his pocket. His cell phone buzzes yet again, reminding him that he had at least one voicemail.

Sighing, he checks it. Hearing Heather's voice on the other end makes his blood boil. Her message was clear - she'd been trying to get a hold of him, but he'd been unreachable. Obviously he was hiding. She would try again, but he was to be warned, she wasn't playing games. If he was willing to admit, in writing, that he'd kidnapped Mackenzie, they might be able to settle outside of court.

Carson growls and stuffs his phone back in his pocket. If he admitted to the lie in writing, it was as good as him being convicted in court. Either way, it would follow him, and he wasn't willing to do that. Whether he wanted to see Mackenzie or not wasn't the point... he wasn't a liar or a kidnapper, and he wasn't going to admit to doing something he hadn't done.

Lighting up, he leans his head back and closes his eyes, letting the smoke seep out into the air.
God, I just want all of this to be over... Why is the night so long?


Scott can hear Carson and Hope talking, but he doesn't know what was decided. He felt like someone waiting to be put on trial, with no idea of the outcome. He also felt badly, wondering if this situation was taking away any necessary concentration from Katie's case. The last thing he wanted to do was interfere with that.


Shifting his head, Kyle lets it rest, his face to Alice's. Her words were so full of peace. She was so alive and so energetic and enthusiastic... but at the same time, there was an underlying peace. It was a peace Kyle recognized. It was a peace that could only come from being close to God. Her words spoke the truth in which she believed.

His lips curl into another smile. She liked making him smile, and it was oh so easy for her to do. "Most people feel they've known me for years," he quips. "That's why they get tired of me so quickly and kick me out."

Though he was being a tease, some of Alice's words did strike a chord.
"Remembering what God gave us, our talents... who we are...."
Who was Kyle? He turns his head again to watch the sky so Alice couldn't see the despair in his eyes. It wasn't fair that she tried so hard to keep him upbeat, and he continued to nosedive. Why couldn't he just be happy? God had brought him here... hadn't He? God had laid out this opportunity to travel with the team... hadn't He? Or... had it been Kyle's own way of escaping that which he feared?

He was happy on the road. He was seeing things he'd never seen, and doing things he'd never done. He was just as much an asset to the team as any member and with each session he got better, sharpening his skills. He knew how to make an audience smile, while proving a point too. The team maybe got tired of his goofiness sometimes, but at least they acted like they liked having him along and valued his presence on the team. He missed home... but he was learning to not let that stop him. Surely this was where he was supposed to be.

Feeling something tickling his leg, Kyle sits bolt upright, sending sand flying. Not being able to see anything in the dark, but feeling an insect crawling up the inside of his pantleg, he gives a shriek and jumps up. Hopping around, he tries to shake out whatever it was that had found a warm spot. "Get out, get out, get out!"

Spinning around too quickly, he loses his balance, toppling back into the sand. Lying still, he feels nothing... the creature was either squished or decided to leave.

Kyle rolls onto his back, several feet from Alice, and suddenly realizes just what an idiot he must have looked and sounded like. He starts to laugh. Covering his face with his hands, he just keeps laughing, unable to stop, and too sheepish to get up.

Let God Drive

Being pulled to the said Hope had figured Carson would want to explain everything to her and though she was prepaired for whatever he was going to tell her Hope couldnt help but cring a little anyways.

But recovering quickly Hope stays strong looking at Carson her mind was set and she new she could do it.

"I understand and I will stray out of the way. But I still want to be in the room so when you done, and Scott needs his friend I will be here for him."

Hope's eyes held hope that matched her name. Her mother had done right when giving her, her name.

Giving a quick nod to Reese Phinox turns around heading back to the cubicle. Laying his head down on the desk Phinox closes his eyes. He was mentily tired and if he was going to pull this off he had to be in his right mind. He had two hours, one he would sleep, than 15 min to get ready and than the drive. That all he needed.

Just stairing up at the sky for a long moment Alice is quiet. As the fire works continue to go off one could tell she still had a smile on her face as her eyes is on the sky twinkling and looking deep in thought.

"I let everything in God's hands. Why would I want to cry, or be sad when this day was made for me. When God gave me friends to shair it with. I just let God drive and I follow."

Alice is quiet again as a small look pass through her eyes.

"Not to long ago I promised someone close to me that I wouldnt cry when I was sad and I wouldnt let my energy die out. Life's to short to worry about tomarrow, to lose your energy. Rembering what God gave us, our talents who we are he put us here to be the light."

Turning her head and look at Kyle so much emotion is in her eyes as she speaks. Her passion flowing through them for her faith and her life.

"I like making people smile, I like making you smile. Your the closest I have been to someone in a long time, and I like it. Its nice to shair a smile and a laugh with someone. I havnt known you for long Kyle Mitts but I feel like I have known you for years."

Whirlwind

Carson lifts his eyebrows, a little surprised as he shakes Hope's hand. She wasn't at all what he'd expected. At this hour, he was too weary for formalities. "G'day."

Listening to Hope's request, he considers his options. Glancing to Scott, it strains his shield of coldness even more. But he had to hang on just a little longer.

He gestures for Hope to step away from Scott for a moment, taking her to the counter to speak to her quietly. "I don't mind you being there with Scott. I'm sure he'd feel safer with you there." Carson hesitates, but knows he has to go on. "The last thing I want to do is put him through any more pain, but there are a few things you have to know."

He glances back to Scott, still thinking, then returns his gaze to Hope. "After someone is assimilated by the Agency... that is, after they've absorbed all of the information fed to them... the Agency has one last step. They force the victim to bring up the data on command. I know it sounds like something out of a sci-fi movie, but their technology is unlike anything else. Once the victim has all that data in their brain, they don't naturally know how to retrieve it."

Carson pauses, making sure Hope was following him. "The extraction phase isn't easy. If the victim can't bring up the data on their own when asked, force is used. They're threatened and physical force is usually implemented. Like Scott has already demonstrated with me, when the victim's life depends on it, they figure out how to pull out the information because if they don't, they're going to die. Sometimes the extraction phase takes one setting. Sometimes ten. It all depends on the victim."

Another hesitation. Carson leans on the counter, his head pounding with a headache. He keeps going though. "Once a victim realizes they can call up the data whenever they want, they can do it on verbal command, then on their own, whenever they want. It's like me remembering your name is Hope. I don't have to think about it - I just know it when I need to.
Now... I'm telling you all of this because Scott hasn't made it past that final stage, at least as far as I can tell. I kept thinking about it, and I realized that if he's telling the truth about not remembering, then the Agency must never have finished off the process. Scott has the data, but he hasn't had that final piece that would train him to pull up that information. For some reason, the Agency had to have terminated the project before getting to that stage. Why? Your guess is as good as mine. They could have been interrupted, or they could have just been saving him for later."

He takes a deep breath, letting it out slowly. "That final extraction phase is like a system's check... it's what triggers the natural memory response. I don't know why it works that way... I'm sure it's a mix of science and psychology. But no matter the case... Scott needs to go through that final stage. It's a good sign that he's already been able to pull up a few pieces of data, but until he can do it on his own, the information he holds is simply trapped in his brain. It has to be forcefully removed before it will come on its own. It's like.... siphoning a gas tank... you gotta suck on the hose first to get it started, but once it's flowing, it does the rest itself."

Carson's eyes look into Hope's, his gaze steady. "If we want Scott to remember, and he wants to remember too, then we have to siphon the data. If I'm allowed to do this, then you have to know that I will use physical force if I have to. And when I do, there can be no interferance. You have my word that I will not put Scott in real danger. But like any other victim... making them believe they are in danger aids in triggering the response mechanism. Without that kind of pressure, there's simply no reason for them to remember. But when their life is on the line, or they're afraid of getting hurt, the effort to remember is a hundred times greater, enabling them to finally do it."

He grits his teeth. He didn't want to be the one to interrogate Scott, but he was the only one who knew how. "If you can stand back and watch no matter what I do, and trust me that he'll be okay, then I'll do this and I'll allow you to be there. If you can't, then you either can't be there, or this needs to be called off - but for Scott's sake, I hope you can handle it."


Scott has his back to them, but he can hear just enough of their conversation to know what's going on. He knew what Carson was talking about.

He curles up in a tighter ball. He was terrified. He was ashamed. But he had to remember. Whether it would help the current case or not didn't matter... he'd been a traitor and he needed now to give TJY all of the information he could.


Reese looks up to Phinox and takes the letter slowly. He could tell by the look on the agents face that whatever he'd written had been difficult. Reese could only imagine. "I'll do my best," he promises.


Kyle looks down at Alice, a new grin spreading. Spinning around, he flops down beside her, once again lying on his back, putting his hands under his head. "Best friend," he repeats. A laugh escapes. "You're a whirlwind, Alice. You know everything there is to know about me, including all my secrets. We he haven't even known each other all that long, but I'm closer to you than people I grew up with."

He throws her a sidelong glance. He wouldn't have traded her company on this trip for anything. He was close to the others in Break Out, sure, but she was the one he could go to no matter what... she was the one he could confide in... she was the one that would laugh at his stupid jokes and actually mean it... she was the one that would join in his craziness and not just sit back and watch. "How do you do it?"

Letter

Giving a gentil pat to Scott arm Hope continues to sit with him. He wanted to help Katie so much, and he was so confused. It hurt to see her friend in pain yet again.

"Its going to be ok Scott. I am gonna stay with you and we are going to figure this out."

Just sitting with Scott Hope listens, adding in her own say here and there but not really talking to much. She was listing, letting Scott just vent to her hoping that maybe she was bringing some comfort to him.

Looking to Rick at she hears her name Hope turns her head. It had been a little while now and she new Rick would be back soon. Not to saprised by the man who stands behind him Hope stands at the introduction.

Holding out her hand she gives a small smile.

"Nice to meet you. I'm Hope Garrison close friend to Scott."

Saying Scott was her friend just rolled off Hope's toung. She liked the way it sound and it just felt right.

"I do have to ask though if you could wait to talk to Scott till tomarrow. He needed his sleep right now after being though everything."

Hope looks between Carson and than Rick back to Carson.

"Also when you do talk with him I would like to be in the room as well. I promised Scott I wouldnt leave him and I mean to stick to my word."

Exiting the room Phinox lets out a long breath. He only hoped this really would work and he couldnt help but be a bit nervose.

Going back to the cubicle he had been using Phinox checks his gun and a few other things he might need before sitting down.

For a moment his mind wonders back to Spain. He wondered how his family was and if they were all ok. He'd been gone for so long and who new with this next mission if he would make it out alive or not.

Pulling out a peace of paper Phinox jots a note quickly. They deserved to know what happend and why they were left fatherless.

My dear family,

I know it has been a while since you have had any word from me. This might be a shock now to even have a letter from me. It is no doubt that you have all thought I was dead by now, but I asure you I am alive though I can’t say I am well.

I am sorry I didn’t let you know I was alive sooner but for many reasons and your own saftly I couldn’t have contact with you to even let you know I was ok.

Our country had promised me protection but in turn that have forgotten me and I was forced to stay here with the Agency to stay a live and to keep you my family alive. Though I have been with the Agency I have not let myself become part of them. But I fear now as I look back I was a coward and I did turn into one of them. There are so many things I have done that I am not proud of and I should of just taken my chanses in leaving.

Not a day went by that I didn’t think of you my family. It was for that reason and that reason alone I pushed on day after day in hopes that maybe one day I would be able to see you all again. But not I write to you with a heavy heart. In trying to do good I messed things up even more and have no trust from maybe the only people that could of helped me. It is time for me to pay for my crimes now, weather by the Agecny themselves or TJY I will get what they see fit.

Please don’t cry for me though, everything I did I did to keep you all safe, and know I love you with all my heart. Live your lives like you have and keep me as a memorie.

-Phinox
Loving husband, Loyal son, and Proud father.

Folding the paper in half Phinox stands again making his way to Reese. Holding out the paper a sadness pass in his eyes. Though he didnt dair say it he felt like something would happen in the next 24 hours that would change life forever.

"Reese can you see this gets to my family in Spain please? I'm not sure where they are but I figured you could find out for me."

Being yanked from the water and onto the sand with Kyle hand in hand Alice can feel the energy flowing through her, from Kyle to herself and than back to Kyle.

The song and dance under the firewords was great as Alice's smile proved she was enjoying it as she sang along with him trying to keep up with the words.

Once is comes to a close Alice takes in a deep breath as she trys to get her air back. She new why Kyle had stoped so soon, and her heart felt just a little sad. She liked with he sang, she liked his voice but she also new not to bother him about it.

Ploping down in the hand she leans back on her elbows looking up at the firewords in the sky.

"I'm sitting in the sand, half wet, watching fireworks with my bestfriend. They might not be the most comfortable seats but I wouldnt want anything else."

Watching Kyle as the fireworks go off behind him Alice smiles.

By the light of the moon

Reese nods his agreement to Phinox. "Alright. We'll play it your way for this one. Any objections?"

Though Jason scowls, no one says anything against the plan.

"Okay then. I want us all to prepare for what will happen. Nate, I want a backup plan in case anything fails. And all of you are under my direct orders to get at least two hours of rest between now and when Phinox gets back from his meeting. No ifs ands or buts. We all need clear heads."

As everyone gets up and heads out of the room, Jason and Derek lock eyes for just a moment. But Jason is the first to look away and shoulder his way into the hall. He heads right back to his office, closing his door on the world.

He had no idea how to feel right now... he had no idea how to sort through any of this.
Oh Katie... where is my hero?


Getting pushed back down into the water again, Kyle gives a wail, but doesn't fight too much. He was having too much fun to spoil it.

Coming up for air, he sees the fireworks too, and just watches them for a moment, giving a little jump at one of the booms.

Alice's hand brushing against him causes him to glance in her direction, but he doesn't say anything. Instead, he watches the fireworks again. "It's like no one else exists on the planet," he muses quietly. The sun was completely set, and everywhere it was dark. With the city behind them, it looked as though they really were alone for miles.

Out of nowhere, Kyle spins around and grabs Alice's hand, dragging her from the water, up onto the beach. Taking her other hand, he starts to dance, twirling her around and singing out.

"Music playing on the air,
Voices calling everywhere.
Step in time with Heaven’s beat,
We’re dancing by the light of the moon, yeah,
Dancing by the light of the moon.

Stars are shining clear tonight,
Melodies somehow take flight.
Step in time with Heaven’s beat,
We’re dancing by the light of the moon, yeah,
Dancing by the light of the moon."

A firework booms loudly, showering them in sparkling light. The singing and dancing is brought to an abrupt halt as Kyle seems to realize what he'd been doing. Letting Alice go, he backs up a step and blinks. Breathing heavily, he has no idea how to recover, and just looks Alice in the eye for several moments before simply spinning around and staring at the fireworks again. "Just think... there are people that paid to get up close to those tonight, when they could have just come here for a front row seat."

Fireworks

Phinox gives a nod as her starts to pase the floor. Everything had to be prefect. This wouldnt be easy and it would be dangerous but Phinox new it had to be done.

"No, I have the meeting in 3 hours. I want to go there myself first and get the lay out of the place so I play things over in my head. The meeting shouldnt be longer than an three hours at the most."

Stopping Phinox looks at Reese giving a thoughtful glance. He was still thinking and playing things though his mind.

"When I come back, the next time they call after I get back we can tell them we will give them Jay and Derek."

Caught in Kyle's eyes for a moment Alice can feel herself almost start to get lost. But as Kyle turns away it breaks and she can feel her cheeks turn a little red.

As Kyle jumps up Alice head snaps to him again. The smile spreading across her face again as a giggle slips out again.

Jumping up again Alice follows after Kyle and dives into the water staying under for a while before finally coming up again next to Kyle. A chill coming off her voice.

"Wow, that is cold. But it feels good."

Splashing water at Kyle Alice laughs lunging at him and knocking them both into the water once again.

Starting to come up a boom can be sounded as colored lights spread across the sky. The color spidering across the sky in differnt colors.

Looking up at the sky this was only the second time Alice had ever seen fire words and her mouth hands open just a little. Backing up a few steps Alice's hand hits Kyle's. Turning to look at him she smiles.

"Sorry.."

Turning to the sky again Alice smiles as the colors light up Kyle and her face.

"Its so amazing the colors, the patterns, its so pretty."

Cold water

"Special person..." Kyle's eyes narrow slightly, the humor still in his tone. "It doesn't take someone special to come out here and enjoy the sand this time of night - just someone crazy."

He chuckles and turns onto his side to prop himself up on one elbow, still looking at Alice. "Now, someone who can wrap a crazy person around their finger... that's a special person."

Just looking at Alice for several moments, Kyle is suddenly quiet. His smile remains, but for a single instant, it had started to fade before he'd revived it. Rarely could he not look her in the eye, but strangely tonight, he drops his gaze first.

Still grinning, he is suddenly on his feet, sand going everywhere. With the wail of a madman, he's in the water. Not just up to his ankles though. Spinning around, he falls backward into the water with a resounding splash, clothes and all. Coming up for air, he shakes the water from his face. "Wooee... the water is cold!"


Scott doesn't know what to think. He wouldn't have thought that he'd ever help the Agency, but the memory was there. He knew that it probably hadn't surfaced until now because there was such a heavy feeling of guilt attached... he hadn't wanted to remember being a traitor.

He considers Hope's suggestion and his own. Did he want Carson to help him remember? Carson seemed to know the right triggers... and if Scott couldn't remember on his own, maybe he needed that to happen.

Finally, he nods slowly. He would do it if Hope stayed. Right now, she was the only thing that was helping him stay sane. "Okay..." He swallows and licks his dry lips, the taste of blood still there. "Soon... in case... I know something that could help... could help Katie."

Quietly, Rick stands in the doorway. He'd heard just the last bit after having returned from taking Alec to the holding cell. How could Scott really be a traitor? Even now, he was willing to to through a form of torture in case it would help Katie... that didn't seem the mindset of someone who would have folded at the hands of the Agency. Scott had never been trained for field work... being captured had take its toll on him, and he never would be the same. His mind had not been ready for the torture. But he had survived, and Rick wondered if there was an inner strength there that no one had ever seen. What was the real story behind his captivity? What really had happened?

Turning, he walks down the hall and out onto the main floor, finding Carson. Stopping, he realizes that Carson was listening in on the meeting.

Carson glances up and hits the mute button on the phone so he could still hear the conversation, but no one could be interrupted by him or Rick. "Yes?"

Rick sighs deeply. "Hope is in talking to Scott."

"Hope?"

"His counselor. He's agreed to having you talk to him again and try to get him to remember."

Carson's eyes widen. "What?"

"Scott says he remembers giving in to the Agency and turning on TJY. Whoever beat him up must have squeezed that much out of him. All he wants now is to get as much information out of himself before the charges are pressed, so he can help TJY."

Carson looks back at the screen that showed Katie, one ear listened to the meeting, and half his mind working on what Rick just said. "No."

Rick's eyebrows rise. "No?"

"No, I don't want to do it."

"But... why?" You already interrogated him once."

"I know... and I don't want to do it again." Carson sets his jaw firmly. "I'm tired of hurting people."

"But he asked for this."

"I don't care."

"You're the only one we have, Carson." Rick folds his arms. "You're the only one who knows how to do this."

"Why? Because I'm the expert in torture? Because I'm the skilled interrogator? Because I know how to evoke pain so someone will talk?"

Rick sighs. "Yes."

"I don't want to hurt Scott any more."

"Then the information will be lost."

Carson looks at the screen again. He listened to the meeting - it sounded like they had a plan in motion and wouldn't need much of his advice. He glances to the clock. It was evening. The day had been long. But it was going to be even longer.

Taking a deep breath, Carson stands up. After summoning Wyatt to take over, he follows Rick...


..."Hope?" Rick approaches carefully, not wanting to startle Scott from coming up behind him. He stops and gestures to Carson. "This is Carson Banks."


Hearing Phinox's plan, the room grows quiet. Derek and Jay exchange glances, both knowing that the other was willing. "We can do it," Derek states with confidence. It had been a very long time since he'd done anything close to undercover work. But he still had his wits about him. They had to pull this off.

Jay nods. "I'll do anything to bring my daughter back."

Reese contemplates for a moment before giving his consent. "Alright."

"What about me?" Jason intervenes. "You expect me just to stand back and watch?"

"Yes," Reese states flatly. "I do. Like the rest of us, you will be in the background in case something goes wrong. If all goes well, you'll be there when Katie needs you the most. Do I make myself clear?"

Jason keeps himself from rolling his eyes. He wasn't happy about this. "Fine."

"Good. Phinox?" Reese looks to him again. "You were supposed to meet with Rod tonight. Are you planning on taking in Derek and Jay at that time, or waiting until you know more information?"

Alice smiles before looking back to the sky. God wonderful world, and everything in it. So pretty in its own way. Even if some couldnt understand, Alice could see it.

"The only think you did was just be yourself. Thats what grabbed my attachen about you in the first place. You wernt scaired to be Kyle."

Turning her head to Kyle once again the light shone just right to light up Kyle's eyes as she searches them. What she had first been drawn to was still there, someone who didnt care what others though and new how to have a never ending fun.

"I wouldnt have missed it eather. Its not every day you find that special person who will actully run on the beach in the middle of the night."

Giving a small laugh Alice's nose scrunches up just a little as her eyes twinkled.

Kyle turns his head quickly to stare into Alice's eyes just inches from his own. "You really mean that, don't you?"

He seemed almost surprised... pleased, but still a bit surprised. "I can't believe I've done anything so great to make you say that... it should be me thanking you for coming along.... without you, I don't know where I would have ended up at."

He grins. "I certainly wouldn't have ended up on a deserted beach under the stars, that's for sure. And I wouldn't have missed this for the world."

Best Gift

Alice can feel the slight color that came to her cheeks at Kyle's comment. She wasnt sure when the color came at all when she new he only ment that if he was holding her than they both couldnt get to the water.

As Kyle moves off her Alice sits up. He wasnt going for the water and neather would she. They both new no matter what, one would drive for the other, and the other would do whatever there friend asked. They didnt need a race to tell them that.

Moving next to Kyle Alice lays down and looks up at the sky. Stars twinkled as the shone brightly holding there place.

"Mmm...you could say that again. Its nice to slow down sometimes and just enjoy something in slow mode."

The smile growing Alice gives a small nod.

"God's nightlight so we dont have to be scaired. He lights up the dark sky so we know we are not alone."

Turning her head Alice looks at Kyle and gives a grin.

"Thanks for letting me come alone Kyle. Its been so much fun, and even more fun getting to know you better. I'd have to say its probley one of the best gifts God has given me."

Slice

Kyle looks over his shoulder at the water, then back down at Alice again. His grin spreads across his face, making his eyes squint slightly. "As long as I'm holding you, I don't need to reach the water."

His laughter bubbles over and he finally lets her go, but doesn't try to get to the water first. Instead, he simply sits up then leans back on his elbows, stretching out his legs. He'd drive for her anyway, win or lose. Talking with her in her jeep was one of the highlights of the trip and he wouldn't want to miss it.

Sliding down even further, he falls onto his back and closes his eyes, letting the warm air brush over him as he puts his hands up and behind his head. "Mm... a little slice of heaven."

As long

Continuing to laugh Alice trys her best to catch her breath as she is laughing.

Life it was an intresting thing. So much sadness, so much hate and yet in a single moment there was so much joy and so much love. Laughter the best medicen, Playing silly kid games, keeping one young at heart.

Not being able to move Alice looks at at Kyle, and than back at the water to see it within reach. Than looking back at Kyle her gaze locks with his for a moment. A warm wind blows as her lips turn into a bigger brighter smile in the moonlight.

"I'll never surrender because as long as your holding on to me, you cant get to the water eather."

Alice's voice was laced with laughter and joy. Feeling like a kid, the worrys of the world melted away, feeling peace.

not over yet

Kyle shrieks as the bottom of his foot is touched. Getting out of the way though gives Alice the edge.

"Nooo!" Kyle's wail is dramatized as he kneels in the sand, throwing his arms up in the air with utter dismay. But seeing her stumble, his grin is back.

"The score is even! The endzone is just in sight! But wait! The defense is coming up alongside! Yes, yes, it's Kyle Mitts!" Scrambling forward, he aims for Alice. "Ladies and gentlemen this game may not be over yet!"

Tackling Alice, they're right near the water's edge. Leaning from the side, he stares down at her, pinning her arms in the sand. "Say uncle!"

Wheal

Going down into the sand Alice cant help but still laugh.

"Ahhhhh...."

Feeling Kyle fall on top of her Alice cant help but laugh even more. This whole thing was rediculace but it was to much fun to stop.

Kyle's feet still on her Alice cant help what she does next. Calling out the laughter in her voice would show to anyone that they were just fooling around.

"Help...beached whale...help..."

Quickly Alice takes one of Kyle's feet and tickles the bottom of it for a bref moment untill he is off her. Than getting on her own hands and knees Alice starts for the water once more only to trip on Kyle.

Still pulling herself along she inches forward.

"Alll...most...there."

Almost

Kyle is still bouncing on one foot, trying to get his socks off, when Alice takes off. "Whoa, hey! Not fair!"

Finally ready, he sprints into the sand. The feeling was so much like home, it was automatically a feeling of bliss. For the first time in weeks, Kyle felt free.

Gaining ground on Alice, he can't help but laugh as he runs. They were nearing the water and he was going to lose. "You cheater!" he hollers ahead.

Right before they get there, he dives for her ankles. Successful, he takes her down, but he's down too. Trying to reach the surf before she does, he crawls over the top of her, getting tangled and choking on a laugh as he sprawls on his stomach, one arm stretched toward the water five feet away. "Help!"

Race

Turning to look at Kyle as she pulls out of the parking lot Alice gives one of her best smiles ever. Her hair blew slightly in the wind as the evening air passed through the strands.

"Ohhh...I think they will survive. What else would they exspect from Whitty Whitt and WWCK?"

Shifting gears Alice continues down the road as her memorie reminds here where she saw the signs for the beach on there way in.

Within no time the jeep is parked and Alice is already hopping out an taking her sneakers and socks off. Rolling up her pants as well.

Steping away from the car she walks to the sand that had been warmed by the day but was starting to cool from the night. As it oozed through her toes it felt so nice, and she felt so free.

Turning back around to Kyle a sly smile forms on her lips.

"I'll race you to the water. I win and you drive for me the next time, you win and....I dont know we can think of it later."

Turning again Alice makes a break for the water laughing as she went. She felt like a child once more, not a care in the world everything else just didnt matter.

abandoning

Kyle blinks, caught in the whirlwind of Alice. He'd underestimated her suggestion.

A grin surfaces as a new mischief sparks in his eye. He had an awful lot on his mind, but oh to just forget about it... He glances over his shoulder at the diner and the nearby bus. He knew where they were spending the night.

Without further hesitation, he jumps into the jeep next to Alice with an energetic bounce. "I wouldn't want you to have to face the face to a beach without the wacky wild child to keep you company."

As they're pulling away, he sticks his head out the window. "Good night, Clearmont!!!!"

Somewhere a dog barked. Kyle sits back again, the cheesy grin stuck on his face. "You realize I'm dead meat for abandoning the team."

Just go

Alice cant help the laugh that escapse and the small squeel as she is dragged back outside again. She didnt care that people were looking at them like she was crazy. She rather liked being differnt and getting looks from people.

Ducking under Kyle's arm Alice gets free from his hold. Reaching out and taking his hand she pulls him twords her jeep her face full of color and life for the adventure.

"Ok, we are going to go...to the beach."

Getting in the driverside and shutting the door Alice reaches over and opens the passanger side. Just stairing at him for a long moment Alice finally bends down a little to see his face.

"Well are you coming or not? I would have to have to feel the sand in my feel, and run through the surf alone."

Alice takes in a deep breath of the nice air. It felt good, to just go, it felt nice to have a friend to live life with. A promise she made a long time ago.

Ok

Getting back inside the diner, Kyle lets Alice lead by pulling him a long. A grin surfaces at her final statement.

"Okay."

Suddenly he's leading instead, his arm tightening around her to spin a 180. Heading back the way they'd come, he pushes the doors open, putting them right back outside again.

He breathes in the warm air. "So. Where should we run away together?"


Back inside, Chloe quirks an eyebrow. "Did I just see them come and go?"

"Uh-huh." Myla rolls her eyes. "Who knows what they're up to."

Foot Hold

Giving a smile and a nod. Leaning into Kyle while he leaned into her they both supported eachothers weaght. She felt good, Kyle made her feel good and she likes it.

"I know I try. Your not so bad youself."

Starting to walk forward arms around eachother the smile continues to shine on Alice's face as her own energy was making her hyper as she pulled Kyle alone.

"Lets get back before they think we ran away together. Than again I dont think they would be saprised if we did."

Hope continues to listen as she just sits in quiet with Scott. She new what he was saying and that he was addmiting to being a trator but she could also tell there was something more.

"Oh Scott, there has to be something more your not remembering. I know you cant be a traitor, I just know you. Your heart is to kind."

Just watching Scott Hope process all that was said. Trying to think things through in her own mind and play them back.

"Do you think you would feel up to seeing if Carson could help you remember anything else? I wouldnt leave your side and I would stay with you, but maybe it would help clear your own mind to know?"

Watching from the side lines Phinox thinks differnt plans over in his head. He has several differnt things he can do, and ways to do each thing but this all took carfel planing, and the perfect exicution.

As Reese turns his attachen to him again Phinox dosnt talk for a moment as he continues to think before straghting up again. His face held no emotions, but his eyes proved his confadince and determination.

"This operation was small. There was Rod, Gage, another woman who I do believe is gone now, and Myself in on this. If I can get in and map out the layout I will know the exits, rooms, and where everything is. I have a memorie that can take a picture tuck it away and than bring it back when I need it. Most people in the agency are trained that way."

Phinox take in a breath for a moment as his eyes scan all the faces that are looking back at him. He didnt know if these people trusted him, he didnt know if he trusted himself but if this would get that girl back, maybe this would make up for his other sins.

"We bring Derek and Jay in. One of them will not have there hand completely tied. Once I put them into the room and I leave they will be able to untie the other. I can take out Gage not kill him, than take out Rod while leading Jay and Derek to Kaite. The woman that was in on this is gone but now since we havent seen her and I will conferm that once I go in tonight. Than we lead Katie, and the others out to a car that will be waiting."

Phinox new it would be trickyer than it sounded but it was all they had and maybe even some of the other could tweek it or add to it but at least it was a foot hold for something.

Truth and lies

"Yeah..." Kyle nods. "That was the only bottle."

Though it would be easy to remain embarrassed, Alice made it even easier not to. Kyle knew he could count on her no matter what. He remembered wondering if it would really work, with her following him... now he couldn't imagine the trip without her.

Giving a sheepish grin, he leans into her, then puts his arm around her too. "You da best, Alice."


Scott sniffs and closes his eyes again, his head sinking further into his damp pillow. Hope's hand on his arm only added to her soothing presence. "He just wanted answers," he mumbles quietly. "But I... I couldn't remember. I... I didn't want to fight back." He cringes as the recollection. "I knew he just wanted to help TJY... protect all of us."

Silent for a moment, one might think Scott had drifted to sleep, but he speaks again, his eyes still closed. "Each time... each time he hit me... it felt like I was there again... at the Agency. And then... then I remembered."

His lower lip quivers again and he finally opens his eye to look at Hope, his sight glazed over with the tear that wouldn't spill over. "I was sitting in the room." He swallows hard. "And... and I gave up... I told them I'd work for them... I took their side, Hope... I told them I would do it."

His eyes plead with her as if trying to find anything that would convince him he wasn't a bad person for having broken under pressure. He felt so small and so weak. "I have to remember everything... I have to tell Reese everything... if... if I go to prison at least I want to help TJY, but I can't remember. But... but Carson knows how to do it... he knows."

The tear finally spills over. "I have to Hope... I have to."


The ideas don't make Derek or Jay flinch. At this point, both were willing to do just about anything to help with this case. Jay, because it was his daughter. And Derek, because he felt it his duty. But both had a lot to sacrifice if they didn't make it back out again. Both had families.

Reese leans back in the chair at the head of the meeting table and mulls over Nate's idea. "That might work. But it's so hard getting anyone back out again, no matter how well-planned it is. If the Agency is prepared with armed guards, we might get Katie back, but there's no guarantee for Derek and Jay, even if Phinox is there. Besides all that, we still don't even know why they want those two."

"Science."

Heads look up quickly at the new voice. Jason had appeared in the doorway.

Reese looks at him sternly. "Are you able to be here?"

Jason nods, though he is tense. He doesn't make eye contact with Derek.

"What do you mean, science?"

Jason leans on the doorframe and eyes Phinox, then looks back to Reese. "Think about it... they want the fathers of Katie and me. What's so special about us?"

Reese quirks an eyebrow. "You're talented. But there's no sign that it's genetic."

"It was drug-induced. We learned that in Australia. The Agency circulated a drug years ago, but didn't realize the effects until much later. They thought it hadn't done a thing. Until they found a few cases like Katie and myself, and realized that it was the offspring of the original users."

Derek and Jay exchange quick looks. "Drugs?" Jay questions. "I never did drugs."

"It didn't have to be bad drugs," Derek counters. "What about like.... pain killers or... or sleeping pills?" His eyes widen slightly. "Were you ever on sleeping pills?"

"Yeah... for about a year. I had bad insomnia and the prescription was the only thing that would cut it."

"I was on something for six months. I can't remember what it was called though."

"It doesn't matter," Jason interrupts. "Obviously it was a form of legalized sleeping pill that the Agency either produced, or contaminated. It just so happened that you two took them. It was by chance that Katie and I met. Had we not, then neither of us ever would have shown signs of what we do now."

"And..." Derek lifts an eyebrow. "What exactly is it that you two have? Are you sick?"

"In a manner of speaking." Jason had just been given another shot to reduce symptoms. "It's too long to explain now. The point is, that the Agency now wants you two so they can study you. They want to be able to replicate what Katie and I have, but in order to do that, they have to analyze the source. I don't know why they haven't picked anyone else, or why they don't just reuse the drugs - you'll have to ask them that. But I think that's what they want from this. The torture to Katie and myself is just icing on the cake for them.... right about now, they might even think I'm dead."

"I think you're right." Carson's voice comes over the phone. He was still at his post, but listening to the meeting. "If they ever lost data or the drugs, or if something happened to their records, they would be desperate to relocat the source and replicate it. Their easist targets at this point would be Derek and Jay."

The room grows quiet again. This did explain a lot. But they still needed to get Katie out.

"Nate, I like your plan," Reese states flatly. "We need to come up with foolproof plan."

Jason scoffs. "Don't bank on Derek. He likes to walk away from his duty."

Derek's shoulders drop and he shakes his head. "Chill, Jason. Now's not the time."

"No? Then when is? After you've left again?"

Derek swivels in his chair to look at his son. "Did you want to grow up believing your mother was a liar?"

"What?" Jason was totally confused.

Though this really wasn't the time and place, Derek knew they had to get past this quickly in order to concentrate on Katie. He throws Nate an apologetic glance. This wasn't at all how he wanted to talk to Jason, but he didn't have much choice. "Well if I would have shown up alive, it would have made your mother a liar for telling you I had died right after you were born."

"She never told me that."

"What?"

Jason throws his arms up in the air. "She never told me that! Austin said you knew about me, but had turned your back on your old life. I knew where you were, but you had a family. I had the decency not to interfere."

Derek's mouth hangs open. "He... he told me that Cindy raised you with the belief that I was dead... so you wouldn't feel abandoned. We agreed it would be best for me not to show up."

Now Jason wasn't sure how to respond. "When... when was this?"

"Years ago... you couldn't have been more than ten." Derek swallows hard. "I did find out that your mother was pregnant with you when all of that happened, and I ran. I admit it. When I finally decided I needed to pick up the pieces, I was told by her parents that she and the baby had died during the birth. So I moved on." Though the past was painful, it was clear that Derek had dealt with it, and was now stronger for it. "After I'd already started my own family, Austin contacted me to see if I wanted back into the deal with fighting the Agency. I said no. Somewhere in there, he mentioned finding you. It was then that I realized Cindy's parents had lied to me because they hated me. But there was nothing I could do about it then... I already had my own family, and Austin said you believed I was dead. So I kept my distance. I turned him down and stayed where I was at."

Jason's eyes narrow. He was so confused. He was so angry. But there was a new, sickening feeling that perhaps he'd been wrong about a few things. "He told me you just didn't want to have anything to do with me."

"Then he lied to you." The fact slides off Derek's tongue like it was nothing. "I found out a long time ago that Austin could play any side he wanted to. That's why I didn't help him with TJY when he asked. Think about it... are you surprised he lied?"

No... Jason wasn't. Unfortunately, he wasn't. What else had been a lie? "But... why?"

"He wanted you here, Jase." It was Reese who spoke this time, quietly. "I didn't know any of this, but I know he would have done anything to keep you here. If he thought you might take sides with your father or get involved somewhere else, it would have been a risk that he would lose you."

Jason's eyes go to the floor. He didn't know what to say. He didn't know what to believe.

Carson clears his throat. "Katie, guys... come on, focus."

Reese brings the meeting back to the point again, though he knew that father and son had an awful lot to work out. It just couldn't happen now. "Phinox? If you have Jay and Derek, how can you be sure that you can get them back out again?"

Idea

Taking the bottle from Kyle Alice looks at it for a moment before going to the garbage can and dumping the container into it and than tossing the bottle in there as well.

"That was your only bottle right?"

Waiting for Kyle's reply Alice than walking back over to Kyle. Holding out her hand to help him off the wall. She wanted to be there for her friend and help him when he needed it.

"I wont tell anyone you have my word. If you need anything, at all or feel any need for them I'll be there for you ok. No matter the time, no matter if I am sleeping or not."

Offering Kyle a smile Alice swings her arm around his shoulder again. She was happy to have Kyle as a friend, and though sometimes driving on the road was hard she was happy she had come along. This was another adventure she could add to her list.

Continuing to just sit with Scott Hope draws her hand away quick and pulls her hair back in a pony tail making herself a little more comfortable.

"Awww Scott, your not a traitor. Your just confused thats all."

Leaning on the bed a little Hope dosnt even think about it and rubs Scott's good arm trying to sooth him.

"I havnt know you for long, but I can tell your a good man, and you would never do anything like that. I know it seems like you did right now, but I dont believe it."

Letting out a small sigh Hope ment what she said. Scott had become her friend, she spent time with him and went out to coffee with him.

"And whoever did this to you was in the wrong. They had no right, no matter what end of story and they should be confronted for what they did so they cant do it to anyone else. Can you remember who did this to you in the intarigation room?"

Turning to Reese Nate gives a nod and than looks at the others before making his way out and rounding everyone else up into the meeting room.

Nate's mind worked trying to run differnt things through it. They needed to find Katie and they needed to find her soon.

Standing in the back of the room Phinox leans aganst the wall. There was songthing wrong about this whole thing and what Rod was doing. They had wanted to scair everyone, and cause pain in the worst way but Rod was being careless, and was taking to many chanses that Katie might be able to make it through.

Pushing aganst the wall when there is a lul in the talking Phinox speaks himself.

"I have a meeting with Rod set up for 10 tonight. When I go, I know I can convince him to take me to see Katie. I can figure out where this building in and if I am lucky maybe I can get Gage while I am there. But that would mean you would all have to trust me."

Nate things for a moment and gives his head a little shake.

"And what about after we get Gage? Than what? Does Katie really have this kind of time?"

Thinking for a moment a slight idea comes to Nate. It might work, it might not.

"What if after Phinox found out the location of Katie we agreed to give them Derek and Jay. We have Phinox bring them, and than more of us could be following. Once Jay and Derek are inside so will Phinox and he will be able to set them free. Than they are in and can try to get Katie out giving us a siginal."

Secret?

Jay wanted to argue with Nate about letting him go, but he knew that it was no use. Everything in his being cried out to want to help, but he was stuck... along with everyone else.

Both Derek and Jay stand by helplessly as they listen to Nate and Phinox. Was there really a chance they could get a lead and find Katie without having to give in to any demands?

Too quickly, they're interrupted by the phone call. Listening and watching, no one can react... they can only watch in horror.

Derek shrinks back a little. Carson stares coldly at the screen, unmoving, his face like stone. Jay's eyes fill with fresh tears as he forces himself to watch and he chokes on a sob, trying not to make himself the center of any attention. He puts a hand to his mouth and just watches, his heart feeling as though it's being ripped from his chest. That was his girl... his baby girl. If he'd been a better father, she wouldn't have lived at the ranch, she wouldn't have come to work at TJY, and she wouldn't have been kidnapped for it.

As the call comes to an end, they're cut off once more and see the shot of Rod leaving the room. It was quiet again. Katie was tied up again, but anyone could see the blood dripping.

"We have to find her," Jay whispers. He doesn't bother wiping his eyes as he turns to Phinox. "Please..." Never had he begged like this. "Please find her."

Carson keeps his eyes on the screen, his jaw so tight that it hurt.

Suddenly Gage appears again.

Gage lets himself into the room, once he knew Rod was gone. Approaching Katie slowly, he sees the blood flowing from the deep wounds in her hand. His facial expression shows nothing, but he goes to the side, picking up a few clean rags. He then goes back to Katie, kneeling down next to her to untie her wounded hand. He says no words, but pours water over the gashes before wrapping them in the narrow rags.

"You're no good to us dead," he mutters under his breath. "Rod should know better."

He wraps her hand tightly, crisscrossing it in an expert fashion, proving he'd done this before.

Derek watches over Carson's shoulder. "Who's that?"

"Gage. Fellow scum." Carson shakes his head, then turns to look at Phinox and Nate. "Whenever we get a chance, if we want answers, Gage is the right guy to choose. He's on drugs, so he's our best bet - he'll be easy to break."

Reese is behind the small group, and folds his arms across his chest. "We need to have a meeting. All of us. Now. But not here. Nate, can we head to the meeting room? We need to figure out what Rod meant by people already knowing something, and it's time we formulated some sort of plan."


Scott keeps his eyes closed and is simply quiet for several moments. With Misty quiet and Rick and Alec gone, the silence is nice in the infirmary. Scott's breathing gradually slows, his body just starting to relax a little.

Finally he opens one eye to look at a blurry picture of Hope. "I... I can't remember." His voice is quiet and filled with despair. "I betrayed TJY... they'll send me to prison for that... And... and I don't know why or...or how or anything..."

He shivers and pulls himself even tighter together. "...I really can't remember... I don't want to... I don't know why I have answers."


Kyle's head hangs. He feels stupid. But not because of anything Alice said. On the contrary, she made him feel like he had a chance with this thing.

His hand slowly reaches into his pocket. He fingers the pill bottle. Could he really do this? What if he stopped taking the pills and he felt depressed again? What if this was harder than he thought?

Kyle bites his lip as he slowly withdraws the bottle. He clenches it tightly in his fist. Ever so slowly, he reaches it out to the side, offering it to Alice. "Take it. Just... don't tell anybody?" If Jordan knew he was addicted to the meds, he could be kicked off the team.

5 Fingers

Nate gives a shake of his head feeling sorry for Jay. He new a father would do anything for there child, he alone would do anything for Maggie, but he new that they couldnt.

"You know we can't hand you over Jay. We have to find another way...and we will. Its not time to give up."

Coming up to the group Phinox knows who Jay and Derek are already from files he had read with the Agency. Noding to them both he says a quick interduction before turning to Carson and Nate.

"I set up a time to meet with Rod. If I cant get in there I know I can get information out of him. Where Katie is, and the layout of the building."

Nate perks up just a little bit. This could be the chanse they needed.

"When? We need to set up a plan follow you."

Phinox holds his hands up for a second and shakes his head.

"Whoa, hold on. They are going to be watching me. I think it would be best if I went first came back with the information and than we can make a plan up."

As the conversation continues it is suddenly comes to a halt when the phone rings. Looking back at the tv screen Rod was seen again.

Nate can feel his heart tighten in his chest as it starts to pound again. It had been almost 6 hours since the last call. One could only hope no more horrers could happen but something told Nate that might not be so.

Picking up the phone Nate is silent for a second scaired to actully answer. Than pushing the speaking button Nate finally talks.

"Hello?"

"I see you guys shipped in Jay and Derek. Does this mean your going to hand them over to us?"

Nate runs a hand through his hair as he looks in question to the two men, Phinox, and than Carson.

"No we are not. Who did you know they were here and what do you want with them?"

There was a short laugh on the other end of the phone.

"We have eyes and ears everywhere. As for why maybe you need to ask those who already know why. As for what we want, we are upping it. We now want 5 million dollars along with Derek and Jay."

Nate can feel his voice want to rise but he can only hope to bide time.

"Your not getting Derek and Jay, as for the money we might be able to get it for you. Maybe in a few days."

"Thats not good enough, we want it now."

"There is no way we could get it now for you."

"Than your little friend, Jay's daughter pays."

Before Nate can say anything more Rod puts the phone down and goes to the draw that held the acid once again but this time he pulled out a scaple.

Turning and going back to Katie Rod just stands there for a moment looking at her. Talking loud enough to her so the others could hear her.

"So pretty and going through so much pain, you know this could stop this. Its there fault your suffering and you continue to defend them."

Lifting her head slowly Katie looks up into Rod's wild eyes. Though much of her strangth was gone Katie's eyes held hope and a deeper strangth.

"I'd go though much more pain before I ever asked them to give in to you. Its not them who are the bad guys, its you."

Rod's eyes burn with a fire. Going around the back of Katie Rod unties on of her hands and pulls it in front of her.

"You might just live through that pain."

Taking her hand and holding it palm up Rod looks up at the camra for a moment giving an evil smile.

"5 million dollars 5 fingers, two refused people two fingers."

Bringing the scaple to Katie hand he places it on the muscle between the knuckle and the palm. In 5 swift movements Rod moves the scaple to cut through the muscles on each finger down to the bone.

Once again Katie's screams ring out over the phone bouncing off the walls in TJY making it sound even louder. The sound was so sickning to hear coming from someone like Katie.

Letting her hand go it falls to Katie side as she cant even move her fingers anymore the blood pouring from her hand. Rod moves once again to the phone and picks it up.

"Keep saying no, and soon there will be nothing left."

Nate's own anger flairs and his grows rumble in his through as his hands slam into the desk not caring about the pain that shot through his own hand. It was nothing compaired to the pain that seased his heart for his friend.

Shaking her head at Alec Misty cant help the small smile that forms on her face. Alec was Carson's brother alright that much was for certin.

"I said I would think about it."

Going over to her desk Misty sits down picking up the phone. She would call Dani and let her know. But as for coming to TJY right now she new it was not the best ideas and she would tell her that.

Stoping as she is about to leave Hope turns and looks at Scott again. Her own heart melted know Scott was in so much pain. A friend, he wanted a friend. Steping closer to him again Hope gives a small smile as she sits down next to him.

"Than a friend is what you have here."

Reaching out Hope lays her hand on Scott's arms again.

"Thats all I am right now, just a friend who is worryed about someone she cares for."

Alice is a bit saprised at the news of Kyle and the pills he was taking though though she did know how habbit forming things like that can be.

Leaning aganst the wall next to Kyle Alice takes in a deep breath.

"Oh Kyle, why didnt you tell someone sooner?"

That was a silly question Alice thought after she had alreayd said it.

"I want to help you Kyle. If you give me the pills we can get rid of them now and thats the first step. I'll be with you every step of the way ok?"

No However

Though Scott still refuses to look at Hope, he feels horrible. Her tone was just as kind as always, even though he'd just told Rick to get her out of the infirmary.

Hearing her start to leave, his pulse quickens. Another tear escapes. He was so confused.

Rick heaves a heavy sigh as Hope begins to leave. "I'm sorry," he apologizes. "I thought he would talk. I'm sorry I wasted your time." He gestures to the door, letting her go.

"I need a friend."

The whimper was almost too quiet to hear, but Rick whirls around to Scott. His young friend still had his back turned. Rick looks to Hope, then back again. "What?"

Scott curls up in a tighter ball. He didn't like it here with everybody around. He didn't like any of this. His body hurt all over and his heart hurt too. But Hope had been the only one that could rescue him before. "Don't go," he asks quietly. His eyes were still shut tight, and he swallows hard, wincing as his lip starts to bleed again. "I need a friend."

Alec has been watching from the bed in the corner and he rolls his eyes. Swinging his legs over the side of the bed, he stands up, heading for the door.

"Whoa whoa whoa." Rick stops him, standing in his way. "Where do you think you're going?"

"Out of here," Alec answers casually as if he didn't really care. "I don't want to have to listen to a blubbering traitor. Besides, the shrink would probably want privacy anyway."

Rick glares at him. "I don't care what you want or don't want, but for that, you're heading back to the holding cell." He grabs Alec's arm and starts to push him into the hall. "Move!"

Alec laughs and calls over his shoulder to Misty. "Hey, sweetheart, don't forget to call my sister for me!"


Though hearing everything from Nate, Jay and Derek are still confused. Everything was thrown at them so fast... neither knew what to think.

Then hearing of Katie's torture, Derek shrinks back a little, but it's Jay's face that pales. He was scared to find out the truth. Bravely though, both men follow Nate several feet further.

Carson turns slightly, hearing Nate's request. He hesitates. But at least both Rod and Gage weren't in the room at the moment, and Katie seemed fairly calm. Carson eyes Derek and Jay. Derek was easy to pick out - Jason and Austin looked so much like him. And Jay... Carson knew him from the Agency files. He moves his chair back out of the way, so they can see.

"Oh, Katie." Tears fill Jay's eyes and he takes a step closer. Images of his daughter as a little girl flash in his mind. He reaches his hand out towards the computer as if hoping he could touch her.

Derek lays a hand on his shoulder. "We'll get her out."

"I'll do anything," Jay states flatly. He turns back to Nate. "If they want me, I'll go."


Kyle jumps as Alice comes up so quickly next to him, but he doesn't resist her arm around her shoulder. Instead, he leans back into her, giving a short laugh. "You have a point." He turns his head to look her in the eye, slinging his arm around her too.

Leaning down slightly, he rests his forehead against hers. "However..."

His words trail off. All of a sudden, he realizes that he didn't have a real "however." Why was he relying on these pills?

He swallows hard and lets Alice go, leaning back against the bricks again. "I... I can't." A tinge of frustration appears in his voice this time. "I just..."

The battle is obvious in Kyle's eyes. He'd never faced something like this before. He'd never gotten down like he had... After the band trouble, and Misty, and not feeling needed... and now...

He bites his lip and hooks his thumbs in his jeans pockets. "No... there is no 'however' is there?" He scoffs at himself and looks down at the ground. "I got on the boat and now I can't seem to get off again." It was as close as he wanted to come to admitting that the pills he'd been taking had been habit forming.


A taxi pulls up to the auto garage and the young woman steps out, taking her backpack with her and paying the driver. As the car drives away, she turns and just stares at the shop for a moment. Taking a deep breath, she finally starts forward.

Getting into the office, she looks around, but sees no one. There were no customers waiting today and the room was quiet. She looks out through the glass door into the garage and sees several mechanics working on vehicles. One was talking, another laughing and one was… exactly who she was looking for.

Bypassing any rules about customers in the shop, she pushes the door open and enters the garage. The smell of oil hits her nose and the loud sounds almost make her jump.

One of the men was on his back underneath a car and he cranes his neck around to look up and back. “Hey guys, we got a beauty in here!”

Her face turns a shade of red, but she grins. “You better watch the car you’re working on instead of me, or you’re never going to fix that leak.”

“Leak?” Leo looks back under the car to see oil running out of the hose he’d been working with. “Awww man!”

Axel glances up from the engine he was leaning into, trying to see what was going on at the other end of the shop as a couple of the guys snickered at Leo. Catching sight of the visitor, his eyes widen. “What on earth?”

She finally sees him and her grin widens into a genuine smile. “Axel!” Dropping her backpack, she skirts around the other guys to run up to Axel and throw her arms around his neck.

“Whoa there, kiddo!” Axel laughs and returns her hug. “What on earth are you doing here? You’re gonna get covered in grease.”

Liz pulls away and giggles. “Sorry. I was just so glad I came to the right place. I was afraid I’d get here and be so lost.”

“Yo, Axel, who is this pretty little thing?” By now, Leo is out from under the car, wiping his hands on a rag.

Axel quirks an eyebrow at him. “Down, boy.”

Liz can’t help her sheepish grin as she throws Leo a wink. “He likes to protect me.”

“I see that. Last I saw though, he already had a girlfriend.”

Axel slings a protective arm around Liz’s shoulders. “I do already have a girlfriend, Liz is like a sister, and she’s just a kid so lay off.”

Liz elbows Axel, but is enjoying every minute of it. “I’m seventeen and I came all this way by myself – one of these days you’ll see I’m not a kid.”

“Never.” Axel laughs, giving her a kiss on the forehead. But then he stops. “Wait… by yourself? What are you doing here?”

Leo sees that there is going to be a bit of a tense conversation, so he backs off, though his eyes stay on Liz until he bumps into Jed, who turns him around and gives him a shove back to the car.

Liz bites her lip and looks up at Axel hesitantly. “I, um… followed Dad here.”

“Your dad? Why? Is he in town?”

“Yes. He got a call from the Elite but they wouldn’t tell him why. He just had to leave in a hurry early this morning.”

“Wow.” Axel tries to process the information. “And you?”

“Um… I… I was worried about him. And… I knew you were here…”

“Liz…” Axel looks at her sternly. “Do you parents know you’re here?”

“Um… no?”

“Liz!”

“Well I knew they wouldn’t approve! Mom wouldn’t want me to come by myself and Dad wouldn’t want me worrying about him.”

“And that’s a good reason for you not to have come!”

“I…” Liz swallows hard, her face growing red with her embarrassment. “I know… it was stupid of me wasn’t it?”

“Yes.” Axel shakes his head. “You’re going in the office right now and calling your mom. Then you’re getting on the next plane home.”

“But…” Liz pleads with him. “Since I’m here… I thought I’d wait to make sure Dad was okay and… and sightsee?”

Axel’s eyes narrow. There was something more. “Sightsee?”

“Sure.”

“What is there to see? Or who?”

Liz looks down. “I thought since… since I was here… maybe I might get to see…”

Axel reaches out and tilts her chin up. He sighs deeply. “Jason?”

“Maybe?”

Axel sets his hands on his hips and thinks for several moments. “Call your mom first… if she wants you to go home, you go home. If she says you can wait for your dad then… you can come to my place.”

Liz squeals and throws her arms around him again. “Thank you, Ax.”

“Don’t thank me yet. Get in the office and call your mom right now. Jess is gonna be here any minute and I want this settled before she is.”