Please

Looking into the room Reese words were still in Thirteen's ears. The room, she wasnt even in it yet and she could feel it closing in around her. It was hard to breath, suffocating her she couldnt go back in there. Yelling rang in her mind as she tryed to push it out.

Fear flashed in her eyes as she looks to Ryder and than to the door than back to Ryder again as she trembled. Backing up a few steps she moves away from the room door. Her voice soft and full of fear.

"No, ple....please don't make me go back in there. I don't want to be in there anymore. Ryder please don't keep me in there anymore."

Letting another laugh escape her Alec's words dont really phase her. She's delt with people like him and even worse at the races. Her shell had been built to repell the words, the taunting, and the racy comments by the other drivers. Her ears hurd, and she might reply, but they no long hurt.

And Alec, he was...someone who had alot to learn about the world.

"Dont stress yourself about the coffee."

Ryan just shakes her head for a moment.

"You got alot to learn kid, alot to learn."

Finally pulling away Ryan's car starts down the road again. She needed to get back to the auto shop she had left her paper for the race tonight laying on the counter and she needed it. Not to mention she had to do a few last ajustments to her car before the race.

Looking straght ahead at the road Ryan trying to hold her focus as she whispered her lesson learns along ago.

"Never look back."

Finally not being able to take it Ryan looks into the rearview mirror and rolls her eyes, before continuing down the street. Something told her because of this she would see him again.

You have alot to learn kid.

On second thought

Ryder understands, and says no more as he exits the car and waits for Thirteen, to exit her towards the building.

Once inside, it's back across the main floor and to Reese's office...

"I said no, Ryder. End of discussion."

"But can't you just-"

"No!" Reese tries to keep his voice down for Thirteen's sake as the two stood in his office on the other side of his desk. "I will not tolerate Trooper's behavior, whether he was trying to do his job or not. I want him out. If Jason can convince me it won't happen again, I might let him come back, but until then, the dog goes."

The conversation was over. There was nothing more that Ryder could do. He'd tried his best to explain, but Reese had made up his mind.

Taking Thirteen's hand, Ryder pulls her along with him out of the office, as he tries to keep his temper cool. Something not understandable is muttered under his breath. They walk past the cubicles and down the hall, stopping at the little room once more. It looked smaller than normal. Ryder wished he could offer Thirteen more than this.

Letting her go, he prompts her towards the door. He needn't go over what Reese had said, since she'd been there. This was it. They'd both had supper back at the house, so it was time to say goodnight once more.

"Go on. You'll be fine." Ryder isn't sure what Thirteen will do, but he tries to act as though he assumes she really will be fine. He saw her eyes and knew that behind them panic was just waiting to erupt. What if she did? What then? He purses his lips. "You know you can call me if anything happens, okay?"


Carson chuckles and shakes his head at Katie. "You just get better, okay? I better get out of here. You two take care of yourselves."

"Yeah, thanks." Jason watches him leave, then turns back to Katie, offering her a small smile. "You've got a lot of people who care about you, ya know. Who would have thought tough ol' Carson would have such a soft spot for you?"

He leans forward a little in his chair, taking Katie's hand once again. "Not that it's hard having a soft spot for you."


Alec's eyes narrow as he receives Ryan's responses. His slight pity for himself was quickly being replaced by irritation.

"You know what..." He holds his arms out to the side and looks into the car through the open passenger window, his tone remaining calm. "I never said I was trying to get anyone to like me. As far as the know-it-all act goes, you're doing a pretty good job at it yourself, so you can quit pointing a finger at my "macho" behavior and look in the mirror."

He shakes his head and lets his arms drop. "I might let people boss me around when I'm drunk, but not when I'm sober. I though I'd take you up on your offer, but on second thought... I really don't want to be ordered around, so... thanks but no thanks. I'll get you back for the coffee sometime."

Giving a half-hearted wave, Alec turns on his heel and heads down the sidewalk with no destination.

Alone

Looking to Alec Ryan shakes her head and lets out her own mocking laugh. He was being an idiot. And was treating her like some little kid that in itself annoyed her.

"You have no idea about what I do, and what kind of dangers I put myself in. So why don't you knock off the macho know it all act thats not a way to get a person to like you."

Moving her glasses to her head again A flam seemed to flicker in Ryan's eyes but not one that held anger, maybe a hit of annoyance, and showed just how much spunk she had. The flame aganst the hunny color in her eyes made them shine and only enhance them a little more making them stand out.

Leaning with her both hands on the front of her car she looks across to Alec as her hair falls around her shoulders.

"As for what they want you for I could really give a rats butt, and I never calmed to know...As for who you are, I am figuring out who you are right now as we talk. Because whats done in the past is the past its here and now that matter. Oh yeah one more thing my club, I dont have a club I stand alone, and sponser myself when I race. So unless you want to stand out here in the blistering sun all day get in the car."

Ryan didnt really apreshate Alec's nonshlont insaults and it put her on edge a little for a moment. She had to deal with enough stuff outside the auto shop.

With a slight sigh Ryan pushes off the car Ryan opens the door and gets in. Starting the car up she brings the engine to life waiting for Alec.

Thirteen looks to the TJY building and than back down at her hands. Her day out went pretty well and she only had one or two panics but it was nothing as bad as before.

Alone....she didnt like being alone, but she new sooner or later is was going to come to it.

Letting out a small sigh Thirteen looked up at Ryder for a moment. He'd said he had been proud of her today and how well she had did out, now faced with being alone she felt like she was going to crumble.

"I'll go with you to talk to Reese. I dont want to be alone yet."

Giving a laugh at Carson Katie smiles grows. It was good to see her friends again. To know people cares but it was even better to have them make her smile even if it hurt a little.

"Mmmm....pizza thats one hundred times better than this food."

Katie looks down at the food on the tray and lifts her good side of her face in a duscusted mannor for a moment before looking up again.

"I dont think ever Trooper would eat this."

When's that friend of yours...

Alec scoffs as he wanders behind Ryan back outside. "The risk of getting caught by the cops for street racing? You call that danger?" He shakes his head, his lips pursed in a look of annoyance. "If that's all I had to worry about, I'd be in good shape."

Leaning against a sign post, he sighs. The whole thing with the Agency turning against him really had thrown him for a loop. He'd wanted to kill anybody at the Elite for trying to take the Agency down, but now... the very place he'd been defending had tried to murder him. He needed to take Ryan's advice and get out without looking back. But now he'd always be on the run. He could trust no one.

He felt stupid. He shouldn't have to depend on anybody else. He'd never had to before. He was used to getting his way, no matter how he did it. Then all of a sudden, he was caught and held prisoner for over a month. Finally getting out, he now was being rejected by those he had belonged to. He knew he couldn't really trust anyone at the Agency - they were all crooks. But he'd at least thought they'd have his back. Discovering they didn't was confusing and hurt just a little too as it angered him. For the first time, he wasn't in control, and as such, he just didn't know how to act.

"You have no idea who I am or what they want me for, Ryan." Alec pushes off the sign to amble closer to her car. "I'm not gonna risk your little club getting broken up by the cops and having them find me. But... I will take you up on your offer for a room... just for tonight."


"So you gonna go later this week?"

Clang
Axel cringes as his wrench is dropped. It was bad enough he was here working past eight o'clock, and now Leo had to be a chatterbox. Axel loved his friend to death, but every once in a while, the talking and hyperactive tendencies were just a bit much. "Go where, Leo?"

Leo leans back against the work bench, watching Axel tinker in the car engine. He fiddles with a screwdriver. "You know... to go see Ryan."

Axel retrieves his wrench and keeps working, even though he could feel his hand going numb for the third time that day. It had progressed to four or five times a day now instead of maybe once. Already he was being forced to work long hours because he wasn't able to get everything done during the day when his hand acted up. So far, his boss had been lenient. "Ryan?"

"Yeah, you know..." Leo hints. "Go watch her."

Oh that. Axel shakes his head, his focus still in the engine. "I think you know my answer to that."

"Come on. I mean, the other guys are going."

"Do I look like the other guys?"

Leo smirks. "Not a bit. But lighten up... you gotta get out and do something different."

"Than what?" Axel straightens, oil and grease stains clear up to his elbows, and a smudge on the side of his face. "Working here, being in a band, being involved in my church and spending time with Jess? There are just twenty-four hours in a day, last I looked... isn't that right?"

Leo rolls his eyes. "Come on. Just once? I hear it's a blast. The other guys say it's quite the deal."

"Leo, no."

"But-"

"I'm not going to go watch something like that," Axel states flatly. "I won't do it."

"Aw, but Ryan's not-"

"Ryan is an ace mechanic, great driver and she's fun to be around." Axel grabs another tool and goes back to work on the engine. "I like her as much as the next guy, and I believe she's loyal to her friends, honest, hard-working and she's got the guts to go after whatever she wants."

Leo grins. "You certainly know how to be observant."

"All you do is notice her looks," Axel quips.

Leo's face reddens, though his cheesy grin remains. "I can't help it she's gorgeous."

"How many times has she turned you down?"

"Oh..." Leo sighs. "Four? Five?"

"You mean you haven't asked her more than that?"

Leo shoots him an annoyed look. "Okay, so I don't know. But see? She's great. And you won't come watch her drive just once?"

Axel heaves a deep sigh and finally straightens to look at his buddy. "No. Have fun watching, tell her good luck from me, but no."

"But it's just down on-"

"It doesn't matter where it is," Axel returns. "I simply have no desire to go watch races like that."

"Why not?"

"Because. Personally, I think it's too risky a business. The driving and the gambling that goes on. I don't agree with it, and I don't want to be a spectator because I won't enjoy myself watching it."

Leo throws up his hands. "So you're calling Ryan stupid? You're more loyal to safe procedures than your friends?"

"Leo, I didn't say that," Axel states flatly. "You know I'm loyal to my friends, but street racing isn't my thing. There's a reason cops don't like it. If the local authorities could get away with banning it, they would. You know as well as I do that other stuff goes on there, and I don't want to be in that position."

Leo lets his arms fall back to his sides in surrender. "Alright, alright. I know better than to keep arguing with you."

"Who's arguing?" Axel gestures to the tools on the wall. "Go get me that wrench over there."

"Hey, you're on the clock, not me."

"You want to find peanut butter in your locker again?"

Leo's eyes widen and he quickly retrieves the tool, bowing low. "I am your humble servant, oh master of the spreadage of peanut butter through one's locker."

Axel grins, his eyes twinkling. "That's what I thought."

Leo leans over the engine to take a look as well. "So when's that friend of yours coming back?"

"Friend?" Axel furrows his brow. "Who you talking about?"

"You know..." Leo's eyes remain on the engine parts. "Liz."

"Ohhh." Axel chuckles. "I don't know. Why?"

"Just wondering."

"Uh-huh." Axel rolls his eyes. "You're the one that needs a life, bud, not me."


"Alright. Here we are." Ryder parks his car at TJY once more. He looks to the door, then to Thirteen who was beside him in the passenger seat. "I don't know if I can convince Reese to let Trooper stay or not. If I can't, you're gonna just have to take a deep breath and stay in your room anyway."

His eyes show that he's sorry and he wishes there was something more he could do. The spare room was a whole lot better than the holding cell, but that thought didn't do much good. He knew Thirteen was scared to death of being alone.

"You can come with me when I talk to him though, if you want, so you don't have to go to your room just yet."


A light knock at the door makes Jason look up from his chair and spot Carson. "Hey."

"Hi, Jase. Heard the good news and wanted to stop by." Carson enters the room slowly, still in his clothes from work, with his baseball cap on. He knew Katie was probably exhausted, so he wouldn't stay long. "Hey, Kat." His grin is wide. "Welcome back." He'd worried about his little friend as much as anyone else. It hadn't been the same not seeing her around.

Jason nods to him. "Headed home?"

"No. Going to TJY first."

"Still working on that stuff for Scott?"

"Yeah." Carson sighs and leans against the foot of the bed. "I was finally able to access some files that got me a little deeper, but I'm still having a hard time finding the right source. The information has to be there somewhere. I just need one document... but I can't find it."

"What about Dalton?"

"I know the Agency files. I know without getting into some of them what will be of use or not, so it's just as fast that I do it myself. Scott gave me the security code I needed."

Jason folds his arms, shifting his weight in the chair. "What if it doesn't really exist?"

The thought was prominent in Carson's mind. The more days that passed without proof that something had happened with Scott after the assimilation only emphasized the chance that he'd been wrong... that Scott really was a threat. And the more time he spent on this, the more chance there was that his hacking would be found out. Not even Reese knew the extent of his hacking into the Agency system, or how risky it was. "I don't know." His eyes glance to Katie for a moment. He knew that she and Scott were close friends. "But I'm not giving up yet."

"You gonna stick around after the fact?"

Carson shrugs. "Reese is still after me to stay but... I've got the restaurant... I just don't see how it could work." He turns back to Katie and throws her a wink. "Get yourself out of here so you can come down for some pizza soon."

Tokyo

Listening to Alec Ryan lets out a sigh as she takes some money from her pocket and throws it down on the table for the bill.

"I think I can handle what I bite off, I am a big girl you know. Not to mention street racing is not exactly legal, so I guess I live in danger myself too."

Sliding out of the booth Ryan looks at Alec before pulling some more money from her pocket and putting it into Alec's hand. She had enough money from street racing that she had nothing to worry about just proving she must be good, help Alec out wasnt that bad. She wasnt even sure why she wanted to there was just something about him.

"If your going to leave town, do it now and dont look back. There is something about this place that will hold you here if you do. I was only going to be here for a few months for racing till I went Tokyo for bigger and better races."

Ryan gives a dry laugh as she puts her sun glass back on.

"That was a year ago. It was good meeting you Alec."

Heading for the exit Ryan throws a wave to the woman standing behind the counter before heading to her car.

Bargain

Alec snickers at Ryan. "You're something else, you know that? Do you always pick up drunks and offer them a room in your house?"

His eyes pick up a sly glint. "Or are you selective with your prey?"

Shaking his head, he slides out of the booth to look down at her. "Nice offer, but I better tell you that if anybody knew I was with you, you might just wind up behind bars. My so-called friends aren't the only ones out to blow my head off."

He didn't know why he was admitting that. If he was smart, he should take the offer and run with it. A free room for a few days? Laying low? It was perfect. He knew the Elite would be looking for him. But for some reason... something just didn't sit right with him. Besides, if he really wanted to get out of radar range, he needed to split. Even though... he really... didn't have a clue where he would go.

Looking towards the door, Alec gives a little sigh. If he didn't accept her offer, he'd be out on the street tonight. "Thanks, but... you should probably get out of the habit of offering things like that to people like me. You might just get more than you bargained for."


Ryder grins and nods to the door. "Alright then. Lets get going."

After giving a wave to Katie and Jason, Ryder heads out of the room with Thirteen, his hand back in hers for the quick walk out to the car.

Once they were there and back in their seats, Ryder looks over to Thirteen, his lips still curled in a smile. "I'm proud of you. You did well."

Starting the engine, he pulls out of the lot and aims for the house. It doesn't take too long until he's pulling into the driveway. Laura's car was gone, as expected. She had an awful lot to do before tomorrow, and even after that, things would be in chaos until she was completely moved out. Ryder was happy for her... but the house would be a lot quieter, and he wasn't so sure if Katie would want it to be just him and her in the house even if he did live upstairs.

"Home sweet home," he comments, getting out. Waiting for Thirteen, he leads the way up the walk and to the front door, opening it easily. They're met with a meowing, hungry Henry.

"Hey, critter," Ryder greets. "Meet a friend."

Henry's tail twitches as he looks up at Thirteen for a moment before weaving in and out of Ryder's legs, almost making it hard for him to walk. "Yeah, yeah, you're hungry aren't you. Come on."

Wandering to the kitchen, Ryder waves to Thirteen. "I'll only be a few minutes.... feel free to wander around if you want."

Ready

Slidding into the booth and ordering some coffee along with a quick snack Ryan just watches Alec for a long moment. Studying him she just watchs his body languige and sizing him up for a moment. Ryan was more often than not a good judge of who someone was. Alec, seemed...ok. Maybe confused but something was behind it all.

"If I wanted you to pay for the coffee I wouldnt have invited you because I new you couldnt."

Taking another sip of her coffee Ryan's eyes still dances with the spark they had before. The spunk that was there.

"What do I get out of this huh? Company, someone to show off to, and those extra bedrooms I have being put to use. I'll let you stay in one of them for a while. Clean up after yourself, let me take you for a few new rides, acompany me to street race and thats about all."

Grinning at Ryder Katie clanks her teeth at him before cringing a little as a sting of pain goes through her cheek.

Standing in front to Ryder now Thirteen just looks at Katie amazed but how much they looked like. If saw next to eather other by a strange one would think they were...sisters.

Giving a small smile when she hears that the man that just enter she gives a nod.

"Your dog is nice, I like him."

Looking down again Thirteen is silent before Ryder is ready to go. Her eyes were still scaired but they held a little more hope in over coming the outside.

"Yes, I'd ready."

Gentle grip

Alec looks dumbly out the window at the diner, lifting his eyebrows a little, but not making any comments. Following Ryan he gets out of the car, having a bit of trouble stepping over a curb and making it to the door.

Opening it for her first, he gives a little bow. "Alec. I'm shh-sure you'd be mor'nhappy to meet me if I were...uh, sober."

Getting inside, there aren't too many people, and a corner booth seems the best location for the least amount of attention. Though intoxicated, Alec had some sense left and knew that he needed to sober up. He also knew it wouldn't take too long... once he got something else in his stomach, his head would start to clear. This he knew from past experience....

Chugging down the last of yet another cup of strong black coffee, Alec rests his elbows on the table and cups his hands around the mug, staring in at the remaining swirls and a few grounds that had been left behind. A few trips to the bathroom for some cold water on his face, a piece of toast and countless cups of coffee had brought him back down to an acceptable level as far as his state of mind was concerned. Now though, he'd almost rather not realize where he was... at least being drunk had left him blissfully ignorant.

He had no idea the things he'd said to Ryan... he figured most had been rants about almost getting his head blown off. Those images would stick with him for a while.

Still staring down, his eyes were still a bit glazed, but there was life in them now. "Nothing like staring into the eyes of a friend just to realize they're an enemy," he comments dryly.

Sighing, he finally sits back and sets the coffee cup aside. Looking across to Ryan, he gives a little shrug. "I can't even pay you for the coffee. You probably shoulda just left me at the bar and avoided my little pity party. I'm right back where I was with no place to go, same as I was back there, but at least I didn't know any better while I was there." His eyes narrow slightly. "Why're you helping me anyway? What do you want from this?"


Ryder smiles and winks at Katie. "Kat, this is..." He wished he had a real name to go on. "...Thirteen. She's been staying with Trooper down at TJY, keeping the mutt company." He turns his head to see Thirteen behind him. "Right?"

Giving a little grin, he tightens his grip on her hand and pulls her around beside him. "Come on... Katie won't bite... least I never saw her bite anyone."

He pries his hand loose from hers and makes her stand in front of him, both hands on her shoulders to hold her there, and also so she could still feel him with her. He reaches over her to pull her hair back behind her ears. "Now you see why the Agency wanted to use you? You two look quite a bit alike, ay?" He chuckles. "Two redheads in the same room. I don't know if I can handle that," he teases.

Looking past Thirteen to Katie again, he cocks his head. "So where's that rogue boyfriend of yours?"

"Right here."

Ryder looks around to see Jason, who had just entered the room. His hands remain on Thirteen's shoulders, tightening a little so she couldn't slip away or hide behind him. "Ah, Jason. How's it going?"

"Better now that my hero is back." Jason nods to Thirteen. "This her?"

"Sure is." Ryder's voice stays cheerful for Thirteen's sake. "Thirteen, this is Jason - the guy I've told you about."

Jason had heard that Thirteen was pretty skittish, and he could see it in her eyes now, so he moved slowly, going back to his normal chair to sit down. He holds up his cell phone. "Just got off with Susanne. Sounds like I need to come take Trooper home."

"Mm." Ryder grimaces. "You didn't try to convince her otherwise, did you?"

"Well... I don't know what I'm gonna do. Trooper hasn't bit anybody since he started his training several years ago." Jason sighs, a bit upset by what he'd heard about Hal.

"He was just trying to protect Thirteen," Ryder explains. "I want to try and get Reese to say he can stay... he'd be better off with Thirteen here to keep an eye on him ya know." Though in reality, it was Trooper who was keeping an eye on the girl, Ryder purposely turned it around to avoid her feeling badly.

Jason shrugs lamely. "I don't know what to do."

"If I may say so... I think the dog would probably be in a better mood if his master was around."

"Yeah... I know. I've neglected the poor brute. Now I'm just scared Reese will kick him out for good."

"You mind if I try to talk him out of it?"

"Go right ahead. Call me though if I need to go take him home."

Ryder nods. Looking to Katie again, he gives her another grin. "Take care of yourself, eh? I'll get out of here so you can rest." He cocks his head over Thirteen's shoulder. "Ready to go to the house with me?"

Shy

Giving a laugh Ryan pulls out onto the road once again driving a little bit slower this time putting her sun glass down onto her face once more.

"I guess I'll take it easy on you this time around."

Moving through the down Ryan drives this way and that making twists and turns before pulling up in front of a old run down dinner.

It didnt look like much on the outside but to Ryan this was like getting a millions dollars. She'd spent most of her time here, before work, after work and it was close to the shop.

"This place has the best coffee around, nice and strong too. By the way I'm Ryan."

Quickly following alongside Ryder Thirteen keeps up the pase not having time to let her mind find fear or anything else to bring on panic.

Walking into the room Thirteen stays behind Ryder. Though there was no fear she could feel in this room she felt a bit shy.

Hearing someone in the door way Katie opened her eyes and looks up to see Ryder. Giving a smile it was good to see him again.

"Well if it isnt the croc hunter himself. Its good to see you Ryder."

Katie's attachen is destracted from Ryder as she saw a bit of movment behind him, and than a set of eyes peek around the courner. As Ryder steps out of the way Katie is stunned for a moment. This girl with Ryder looks almost idenical to her.

Looking at the girl and than back to Ryder than to the girl again question lingers in Katie's eyes but a smile forms on her mouth anyways.

"Hi, I'm Katie."

Peeking around the side of Ryder it was almost like looking in a mirror minus the battle wounds that formed on the girl's face.

Nothing needed to be explained Thirteen new this was Katie, the one she had been asked all the question about and was said to look like.

Hearing her introduction sends a wave of emotion through Thirteen as she gives a little jump and ducks behind Ryder again still holding his hand. Her voice was soft.

"Hi..I'm...Hi!"

Looking to Ryder again Katie's eyes hold much question.

Other redhead

Alec quirks an eyebrow and seems to contemplate for several long moments before finally giving in and just about falling back into the car.

Shutting the door, he once again had trouble with the seatbelt. "Lunatics making pases at drunks... what 'm I getti'n mys'lf into?" His slurred speech matches his sluggish movements until finally the seatbelt clicks.

"Ride 'em cowboy." He points towards town. "Or coffee... one 'r th' othr."



Ryder's fingers curl around Thirteen's hand in a strong, warm hold. Leading the way, he guides her beside him, making it quickly through the waiting area and halls and avoiding as many people as possible. He doesn't let go of Thirteen's hand, not allowing her enough time to bolt.

It only takes a few minutes to make it up to Katie's room. Peeking in, Ryder finds that Jason isn't there... he must be stretching his legs somewhere. But Katie was there. A smile surfaces. He didn't want to wake her up, but as he approaches he bed, he sees her eyes open.

His hand still holding Thirteen's, he grins down at Katie. "Well, the little sheila came back to us." He chuckles softly and pats Katie's arm. "Just wanted to say hi, you stubborn thing."

He winks at Thirteen. "This is the other redhead in my life."

Shut up

Ryan shakes her head and rolls her eyes again at Alec. Men could be so thick somes it drove her crazy. They wouldnt know an offer if it slapped them in the face.

"Shut up, get in the dang car, let me buy you some coffee and we will talk about your sleeping arrangements for a little while."

Cocking her head a little Ryan puts her sun glass on top of her head. She new most would think it not right to invite a boy to stay with you, but she had a big house to herself and figured why not shair it with someone who could use a place to stay for a little bit.

Weaghing her chooses of going with Ryder or stay out here where is scared her even more. Prying herself away from the car Thirteen catches up with Ryder and slips her hand into his.

Giving his hand a little squeeze Thirteen let him know she was there and ready even if she was trembaling a little inside. She had to do this, she just had to.

Lost cause

"Scared?" Alec blows something close to a raspberry as he waves off Ryan. "If I's sc-scared, I woulda j'mped out soon'r."

Continuing to trudge down the shoulder of the road, he stops at her offer. Looking back at her, he suddenly gets the strangest most sorrowful look in his eye, like that of a whipped puppy. Just as quickly though, it's gone.

"And... where would you take me?" He throws his arms in the air. "Whatcha see is what I...I got, lady. You take me back into town an' dr'p me off where? I dnn't live here ya know... I dn't live... anywh're 'cept... not ev'n th'r anymore."

He shakes his head. "I am what you call a l'st cause."


Hearing the siren, even Ryder jumps a little bit, but his attention is quickly diverted away from himself, and to Thirteen instead. "Hey, hey, it's okay, it's just an ambulance." Three quick strides and he's back at her side, taking her arm gently, but firmly to pry her away from the car. He couldn't go back now... he was here and he wasn't driving all the way back to TJY. Not this time. "Come on... it's a safe place unless you give me a heart attack or something, then they'll have to bring out a stretcher and take me in there and keep me, and you know I don't get along with nurses... well... unless they're pretty redheads."

His eyes dance with the humor he was trying to convey as he nods towards the door. "You coming with me?"

Safe

A smile still on her face as she panted for air Ryan looks out the open door at Alec just studying him for a moment. It was a mean thing she had done taking him for a spin when she new he had one to many to drink but she couldnt help it. The day was nice, and she never turned down the chance to show off to someone.

Feeling bad for a moment Ryan could guess Alec had no where to go let alone even be able to think straght at the moment.

Moving stepping on the gas slightly Ryan moves the the car along side Alec the passanger side door open still. Leaning over a little she gives a small taunting smile.

"So I scared you that much that you dont even want a ride back into town. I figured you were tougher than that. I could even throw in some free coffee for you!"

Staning Thirteen grabs a few tissue from the box by the bed and shoves them into her pocket before hurrying out of the door and down the hall with Ryder.

Getting to the front door Thirteen watches as Ryder exits. Slowly peeking her head out the door she looks left, and than looks right making sure everything was clean before exiting and running after Ryder.

The ride to the hospetil goes fairly smooth as Thirteen keeps her eyes on the road. Though she cant help once and a while grabing the door handle and digging her finger in. After a little while she leaned her head back against the head rest and closed her eyes trying to keep her mind clean and thinking of good things. She couldnt freak yet, not now.

Finally getting to the hospetil Thirteen opens her eyes and sits up figgating for a moment before looking to Ryder and givinig a small nod. There was hope in her eyes that she could get through this and be ok.

"Yeah I...I think I am ready? Its safe here right people wont ask me questions?"

Opening the car door and getting out Thirteen makes her way over to Ryder right as an ambulince pulls into the parking lot its syron blairing. Jumping Thirteen's eyes wildly go around the parking lot as she backs herself up to the car.

Intoxicated emotions

Too inebriated to really calculate what he was doing, Alec gets into the car, fumbling just a little with the seatbelt.

As Ryan pushes the gas pedal to the floor, a curs slips out under Alec's breath and he cringes as they fly around one corner, than the next. Though remaining surprisingly quiet, his face pales and once or twice, he puts a hand to his mouth, trying to keep everything down. It's quite a feat, but eventually managed so that he didn't hurl in Ryan's car.

Coming to a stop, Alec jolts a little bit, his hands going forward to rest on the dashboard. One might think he was pondering Ryan's simple question, when in reality, he was preparing for another round of stomach convulsions. Unfortunately, this time he wasn't going to make it.

The seatbelt causes him the most trouble, but within a few seconds, he's got the door out and basically falls out of the car onto the pavement, his body having had enough of the liquor. Another curse comes out as he retches again, unsure if he was madder at himself or the lunatic behind the steering wheel. Part of him wondered if any of this was even real, or if he was too drunk to realize it was all some weird dream.

On his hands and knees already, he crawls to the gravel shoulder of the road, rolling to sit on his bottom, his jeans scraping on the small stones. Staring back at the car, he looks in the open door at Ryan, his eyes still glazed, though a small bit of sense had managed to surface, despite the circumstances he'd put himself through. If he wasn't feeling so lousy, he'd rather like to throw her a flirtatious comment, but as it was, he was in no position to flirt with anybody.

Turning his head, he looks back to the desert. It was a long, winding road, seeming to lead to nowhere. He gestures with a lazy hand. "I guess this is where I g't off." He shrugs lamely. N'wer else to go... an' if they find me out here... less clean'p f'r the cops."

Somehow he manages to get back on his feet, staggering just a little bit. Staring off into the distance again, he swears at himself for the emotions that were rising within him. If it weren't for the whiskey, those ridiculous tears wouldn't have surfaced as a result of his ultimate frustration.

Waving Ryan off, he turns his head so she cant see, and stumbles towards the darkening horizon. It looked like he would finally meet his fate.


Ryder leans on the doorframe of the room and sighs deeply. "Thirteen... everybody gets scared. You just have to learn to do things in spite of it." He shrugs. "If you want to come, I'm glad to have you along. If we run into trouble... I'll bring you back. Come on."

Gesturing to her to join him again, this time it's back down the hall and towards the exit. The late afternoon was warm as a dry breeze blew. As the two walked, their shadows were cast long on the ground.

Ryder slides in behind the wheel and waits for Thirteen to get settled before he pulls slowly out of the parking lot. He drives more cautiously than normal with the precious cargo. No speeding and no lurching. It took a little longer to get to their destination, but he didn't mind. Partway into town, he decides to hit the hospital first and turns in that direction.

Soon they're in the parking lot and Ryder is turning off the ignition. He turns his head to Thirteen with question. "You ready?" His eyes smile their reassurance. "You can hang onto me the whole way."

One Peace

Shaking her head again and lets out a sigh as she rolled her eyes. Another day at the bar interrupted by someone who was trying solve his problems with the bottle. It never failed to run into at least one on her trips to the bar.

Exiting the bar moments later Ryan takes her shades from off the top of her head and puts them on, taking a deep breath of air.

"Defiantly good racing weather."

Staring to make her way twords the red Honda Civic Ryan stops as Alec walks drunkly over her her. Quirking an eyebrow at Alec she was almost eye level with him.

"You relize your not much tall than me right kid?"

Looking Alec over once more Ryan get a mischievous grin on her face as she starts to walk twords the car again.

"I'll give you the ride of your life, and if your not scared to drive with me afterward I'll take you where ever you want to go."

Opening the car door Ryan starts to get in before she stops and looks over the roof of the car again at Alec.

"Dont puke in the car eather or I will make you clean it up."

Getting into the car Ryan puts her seatbelt on running her hand along the leather intearor to the passanger seat and taking the cd's and other random stuff off the seat.

Startting the car it purrs like a kitten obvesly taking very well care of. Pressing on the gas just a little Ryan makes the engin rev before looking over at Alec to make sure his seatbelt was on.

Without warning the tires squeal a little as she takes off down the road. Not to fast at first untill she gets a little ways out of town. Hitting where most cops didnt go Ryan hits the gas as the car picks up speed faster and faster. Moving around the bends and turns most people would consider is dangerus, and a little scarie but Ryan handled it with ease like it was riding a bike.

Taking a fast turn the car spins around a few times before hitting the dessert as she moved over tha terran. Making the car go even faster Ryan aims for a small hill. Hitting it at full speed the car jumps into the air almost as if they were flying before coming down once again.

As she had before Ryan slams on the breaks spinning the tail end around again and getting back to the road.

Coming back to the town again she starts to slow before coming to a stop. Glancing over at Alec for a moment.

"You still in one peace?"

Making her place on the floor Thirteen new it wouldnt be right for Ryder to stay here, but she was scaired.

"I...it scairs me here. Can I go with you for a little while just to get out?"

Thirteen looks up at Ryder hope in her eyes. She wanted to try and get out, get some fresh air. Even if just a little way.

"I promise I will try real hard to...not get scaired."

Finding a place

Alec looks up from the floor, quirking one eyebrow at Ryan. "Eth'r I'm r'lly short or you....re r'lly tall." He shakes his head. "They make'm t'll'r evry day."

Groping for the barstool, somehow he manages to pull himself up to his feet, though he wobbles a bit. "Not wanted anywhere," he mutters, downing the last few drops of his beer. "Lady, you're right." He nods, then sways a little. "Eith'r I get blowed up h-here. Or I get blowed up out th're. I m'ght s'well go out in a...a... a blaze!" He stops, thinking that that isn't quite right, then remembers the rest. "Of glory."

Stumbling out the door, he manages to make it to the sidewalk, then stands dumbly, looking one way, then the other. Despite his drunken state, any part of him that had any sense left, realized that he really did have no where to go. He'd escaped the Elite, finally, called up help from the Agency, was told to meet them across town, and he was met with two hitmen who were paid to kill him. He'd figured out that the Agency must think him now a threat since he'd been with the Elite so long... and he knew that there would be no convincing them otherwise. Suddenly there was no hope. His last glimmer of light was gone. And now he was broke too.

Still standing and wavering just a bit, he squints in the light as his stomach starts to churn. He hadn't had anything to eat all day and it had been a long time since he'd put that much alchohol in himself.

If one passed, they might think he didn't remember where he was, or hadn't a clue where he was headed. They'd be partially right. He was so lost he had no idea whether to go right or left. He knew no one here. He had no friends. He only had enemies.

Seeing Ryan exit the bar as well, he bites his lip and staggers over to her, hie eyes glazed. "You got... sh'rter," he muses, now able to look down into her eyes instead of up from the floor. "You wldn't happ'n to, uh, give a f'lla a ride, would you?" An uncontrolled snicker escapes. "I d'nt even care where you take me!"


Watching Ryder walk away, Reese sighs. Getting up from his desk, he wanders in to Susanne to give her some papers to type up, his eyes still on Ryder and Thirteen disappearing onto the main floor. "What am I gonna do with him?"

Susanne lifts her eyebrows. "You talking to me or yourself?"

"I don't know. I just don't know what to do with that guy. There just doesn't seem to be a niche for him here. I know he's getting frustrated, but... well, we didn't have a position for him when he came to the states. He was filling his role in Australia." Reese shrugs lamely. "There just isn't a place for him to fit into around here and I feel badly but... I don't know what to do about it."

"He seems to be doing well with Thirteen."

"I know." Reese sighs. "She's taken to him and I guess that's good. He said some things today that made me think... I guess I've been hard on the girl 'cause she came from the Agency... but I suppose everyone needs a break eventually. Ryder seems to think she's innocent, so maybe I should trust him. I just don't want him getting too attached. I can't quite tell if he's taken with her, or if he's just a natural caretaker." He shrugs again. "But when this is over, then what? We don't have a line of Thirteen's at the door waiting for Ryder to take care of. He's going to get bored, and he's already testing me. I know he means well, but..."

"You won't fire him will you?"

"Oh no, no," Reese assures quickly. "No, he's got a job. It wasn't his fault that the Agency found him out in Australia and he had to leave. "No... there's something for him somewhere... I just don't know where yet."

Susanne nods, feeling badly for both Ryder and Reese. "Well... in the meantime, I haven't gotten Jason called yet. You still want me to ask him what to do with Trooper?"

"Hmm? Yeah... yeah, I know the dog was just doing his job, but biting Hal was inexcusable. Trooper knows better. Jason either needs to come take care of him himself, or have him taken home."


Ryder hooks his hands in his pockets as he and Thirteen walk back towards the hallway. "Well I can't stay in the room with you," he explains gently. "I gotta go home and take care of a cat and see what Laura's doing since she's taking off tomorrow and will be gone for a few days. I heard Katie's awake and I want to go see her at the hospital. Then tonight... You know as well as I do that it's not appropriate for me to stay in your room." He sighs deeply. "Reese wants Trooper out of here, but... if I can get him to let the dog stay, would that be enough?"

Jack

Putting her beer down on the counter the commotion from the other side of the bar catchs her attachen for the fourth time since she had come into the bar.

It had been a long day and all she wanted was some peace and quit but she couldnt even get that here. Tossing some money down on the bar and pushing the beer bottle aside the tall brunette stands starting to walk pass Alec.

As Alec stumbles to the floor the girl stops only a few steps from stepping on him. Her hair fell around her broze colored face as she looks down at Alec. Giving a sidelong glance to the bartender she shakes her head.

"You let just about anyone in here now-a-days eh Jack?"

Looking back down at Alec again Ryan just gives a short laugh. She couldnt help but laugh at how stupid Alec looked and how hard he was going to get pummeled if he didnt get out of the bar.

"Eather your friends want to blow your head off or not you better get out of here before Jack here does it for them."

She voice was a bit stern and help not to much emotion but humor was laced in her voice.

Looking up as the door opened Thirteen stands as she see Ryder. It had been a while since she had been told to wait here for him, and though she kept herself busy watching Susanne and than looking away when she looked at her Thirteen couldnt help but worry what Reese would tell Ryder.

"Is everyrthing ok?"

Starting to walk with Ryder out of the office Thirteen once again falls in step with him. What would happen now? Was she going to be left alone that thought of that scaired her.

"Ryder are...are you going to keep me alone now? I dont want to be alone."

Fr'nds

"Mmm..." Reese studies the screen as Ryder points to it, showing him what had been discovered. "You're right. There's definitely a shadow there. Someone slipped in, timed themselves and walked under the cameras, thinking they wouldn't be detected."

"Exactly." Ryder straightens as he stands on the other side of the desk, and folds his arms. "There, you see? Thirteen didn't do it. It was someone else."

"And what's to say that she still wasn't an accomplice?"

"Oh come on! You can see-"

"Ryder." Reese cuts him off, showing his palm. "Enough. There is reasonable doubt here. Now... I'm man enough to admit when I've changed my mind, opinion, or been proven wrong. As it stands, there is reasonable doubt here of Thirteen's guilt. Therefore-"

"Don't put here through anymore!" Ryder insists loudly. "You're gonna-"

"Therefore!" Reese warns Ryder again not to interrupt. "I'm not going to put her through an interrogation right now. As adamant as she was about not lying, plus this evidence, she's on the suspect list, but I won't put her through anything else unless we find more that points to her."

Ryder's shoulders drop with relief. "What about Dani?"

"She's been here several times during the last few weeks. That note could have been dropped any time. I'll have Wyatt make sure she isn't going anywhere, but I don't want her tipped off, if she was involved. We'll play it cool and keep an eye on her until we either fine more evidence, or we come up with nothing else and I decide to bring her in. We're going to keep searching for Alec, and keep investigating here. We'll figure out who it was. Believe me... we'll figure it out."

After concluding the short meeting, Ryder exits Reese's office to find Thirteen in Susanne's extra chair, right where he'd left her. He forces a smile to the surface and stretches out his hand. "Come on. No one's gonna put you through any more today. Will you come back to your room with me?"


Jason shakes his head. "I've stuck with you since you got here... what makes you think I'm ready to leave now when I finally got you back?" His eyes wore dark circles, and his face was drawn. But his gaze had a new brightness to it. He wasn't going to leave... not yet.

It isn't long before the doctors are alerted, along with others who had been waiting. Jay calls Rosetta to go in together and he can't hold back his tears. A hug to his daughter just doesn't seem enough, but that's all he can do, along with thanking God over and over and over again.

Jason makes a couple calls to let other people know, and he knows that tomorrow will probably be a busier day with traffic. But after a while, the room is quiet again. Katie can go home in a couple days if nothing else happens, Jay will be returning to Texas along with Rosetta soon, and the rest of everything that went on was a fog.

Jason leans his head back in the chair, his eyes feeling so very heavy. But he just had to keep watching Katie. There were so many more things he wanted to tell her, but he'd already told her so much, he knew she must be overwhelmed. The rest could wait.

Don't ever do this again, eh? I don't think I could live through another one of these events.


"They'd be there, they said. Yesssssirree, they said they'd be there." The shot glass clanks on the bar counter. "Bartnnndrr! Gimme 'nother round!"

"Money first, wise guy."

"Ha!" The cackle is followed by a belch, which is followed by money being slapped on the counter. "Frrsttt time I got cash and I'm waishtin' the whole thing. Cheers!"

Alec grabs the next shot of whiskey and downs it all at once. He winces and shakes his head, then laughs, still talking to no one in particular, but being quite loud about it. "Said if I's ever 'n trouble to call an' they'd com'n get me, they did. Warehouse, they said, yessssir. They'd get m' out an' take me back 'cause I got loads of information!"

Somewhere in between slurred phrases, some beer is gulped down. He swivels around on the bars stool, almost losing his balance, and waves the annoyed bartender over. "Met me with a shotgun, they did. 'Bout blowed my head off. Ha! I got a group of fr'nds, I do! What're fr'nds for oth-r 'an to try'n kill you? Ha!"

This time when he spins, gravity takes over. Blinking, Alec looks up from the floor. "E'thr I jus' got a wholellot shorter or the fl'rr jus' came up 'n to meet me."

The bartender rolls his eyes. "Get out of here before you make a mess of things."

Alec can't get his feet under himself, so he just stays on the floor, clueless as to how ridiculous he looks. "And where would you sug'gest I go? My fr'nds wanna... they wanna..." He claps his hands together, mimicking a gunshot. "...my head off, r'm'ber?"

Go anywhere

Smiling up at Jason Katie holds her tears back though they wanted to break free again with how happy she was to see Jason. She wast so sure about the beautiful part but to him maybe she was.

Hearing the news about Jason joining her in the walk with the Lord a new smile spreads wide on her face. It was one thing to see him again, and it was another to know no matter what they would always see each other again. New tears now filled her eyes as she pulled Jason into a hug.

"Oh Jason, thats so great to hear. Thats, such great news. I new I felt some kind of peace about you now."

Pulling away an leaning back on the pillow her eyes felt so tired even though she wanted stay awake her eyes felt so tired.

Keeping her hand in his she give it a gentil squeeze she new he had to be tired as well...He's been here so long.

"Go get some sleep J, I wont be going anywhere."

No saying no

Jason blinks, really quite unsure as to whether or not Katie was serious about him marrying her. She’d never brought it up before. He’d always figured in the back of his mind that someday… but… well…

He shakes his head a little, clearing his mind. He needn’t let her feel confusion at this point. He’d just wait and see what she said tomorrow, or at least when her own head was a little less foggy.

He grins and can’t help but brush her cheek again. "You look beautiful," he assures.

Sitting back, he takes a deep breath and lets it out slowly. "We were all scared that you... well.. I always knew you were gonna pull through." He squeezes her hand. "I don't know what I would have done without you. You can thank Rick I'm still alive, but... without you, there would have been a whole lot less to live for."

He tries to keep more tears from filling his eyes. He'd been so scared... so very scared.

"Your dad is here... and Rosetta too. She's been back and forth a bit. Doesn't feel like a month has gone by, yet it seems like it's been forever since I've heard your voice."

Jason's thumb rubs her hand absentmindedly, almost as if making sure she was real and he wasn't dreaming. "Lots of people have been here to see you. Carson... Ryder... Scott... they all have come every day. And Reese... well, I think he'll be one happy camper to know you're awake." He chuckles. "There's just too many of us around for you to leave yet."

He realizes that there's one important thing he hadn't mentioned. It could wait, but he really didn't want it to because he'd been waiting oh-so-long to tell her. "But... even if you had...." He cocks his head. "I know I woulda seen you again." His smile is soft and he knows she'll understand. "There was just no saying 'no' to God anymore."

Look

Katie gives a little smile as she continues to look at Jason. Bringing a hand to his face she runs her thumb over his cheekbone. If she had been in his shoes she wouldnt have believed it eather.

"For now, I'll drop it, but tomarrow I will ask and the day after I will ask too untill you tell me yes or no."

Bringing her hand through Jason's hair and to the back of his head she pulls just a little to bring his lips to her basking in the glory of his kiss for a moment before pulling away and leaning her head aganst his. Tears forming in her eyes again for a moment.

"So do I look as bad as I feel?"

Reaction

Jason's eyes widen a little as Katie repeats what she'd already asked. He knew now he hadn't misinterpreted the first time.

Giving a little laugh, he leans down and gives her a tender kiss on her lips, more careful this time not to move her around. Straightening again, his hand rakes through her hair.

"I think you're on one too many pain medications," he teases. Shaking his head, he bites his lip. "You have been... for over a month now, Hero. But you're back... that's all that matters right now."

Short explanation

Being pulled into the hug Katie winces just a little as her body was still healing just a little still, but not drawing away. It had been so long since she felt Jason, it had seemed like forever and almost was.

Looking into his eyes as her pulls her away tears filled her own. She remebered what happend, and why she was here. She had been so scaired she would never see Jason again and it had almost become true but now she was here.

"I'm here for good. I am not going anywhere."

Quiet again for a moment Katie searchs Jason's eyes.

"I...I want to be even closer to you if you'll let me. Your everything and I thought I was going to lose you and in that moment...I relized what I wanted and I very well might die without ever asking. I had lots of time to think while I was in there, and dealing with what I did. For a while I even though I had lost you, but I new that couldt be true. When I drifted in and out of countiusness I only ever saw you and the times we shaired. I couldnt leave you but I was slipping. I want to spend my life with you J, will you...marry me?"

Katie's eyes sparkled with the love for the one she thought she had lost, the person who had been so far and was unable to talk to for so long.

Please

Giving a nod, Ryder offers a small smile to Thirteen, encouraging her that he was proud of her bravery. "Alright. Come on."

Back up to the main level and down the hall. Reaching one of the offices. Ryder sets his hand on Thirteen's back, guiding her beside him as they walk, then stop in the doorway. "Dalton?"

He looks in at the big man. "Is there a computer I can use to look over that footage you gave Reese? I have reason to believe Dani Banks was here last night. I need to find out for sure."


Jason has been drifting in and out of sleep, lost in the world he'd been wandering in for the past month. He didn't care about time anymore or what was happening outside of these four walls. It was almost like a dream, but too frightening to be.

His head down and his eyes closed, he automatically turns his face a little, leaning into the soft stroke that he felt. Then the words come. Silent, but the emotions were there, and it was a stronger message this time.

Jason's eyes fly open and his head jerks up to stare at Katie. Her eyes were open. Oh, her eyes were open and seeing him with clarity. The darkness was gone.

"Katie...?" He's almost too afraid to hope that this wasn't a dream. Something between a laugh and a sob catches in his throat and his grip tightens around her hand. Tears fill his eyes.

Oh, Katie... you're back. You're really back.

Moving to sit on the edge of the bed, he reaches down to pull her into a hug, burying his face against her hair as a tear finally escapes.

I have never been so scared in all my life.

Drawing back, he brushes aside her hair with his hand, a smile finally coming. His emotions are going haywire, but they're all good so he doesn't hold them back. Too overcome, he doesn't even realize what her first words to him were.

"Holy cow it's good to see you," he breathes aloud. "Please tell me you're back for good."

Will you

Thirteen just watchs Ryder again as he looks around taking in everything he was doing and studding him as if she might be quiz on it later.

Weighing her options for a moment Thirteens thinks. She new Trooper wouldnt be waiting for her at the room anymore and she didnt like it there like she use to. That comfort zone had been shattered this morning, so her only real options was to go with Ryder to feel safe.

"I'll come with you since you promised to keep me safe."

Stepping along side Ryder Thirteen keeps her head down but falls into place walking with him making sure to keep up and take everything in around her.

There are times in this life when a light from above shines down on us laying a hand on our shoulder and telling us its not time to go. We had been left in limbo walking around through the dark and than finally we find our way but its not out time, and though we want that peace and the need to be away from pain our life is not over, and we are send back. Its in God's plane when we live, when we die, and he knows whats best.

Slowly opening her eyes the form that had been still for so long comes to life. Looking around the room Katie trys to remember where she was and what happend. The last thing she remembered, was the cold, was the pain....closing her eyes tight for a moment she trys to rid herself of the nightmares that flowed through her mind now at full force.

Opening her eyes once again she reasures herself of where she is and he still sleeping form on the bed next to her. Some how she new he'd been there this whole time, however long it had been Jason had been there day and night never leaving her side.

Thought still weak and groggy from the meds she was on a soft smile forms on Katie's face the best she cant with the wounds that had been inflicted to her face. Bringing her hand that Jason wasnt holding she gently touchs his face and runs her fingers down the side letting emotions flow though her.

Jason, will you marry me?

She had been close to death, she had seen the light and felt its wormth she new what a part of heaven looked like though it wasnt sad she new what she wanted now.

Up to you

Ryder thinks while Thirteen talks, looking around as they walk down to the lower level. Still listening, his eyes roam the surroundings.

As she asks about Alec, Ryder looks at her for a moment, sensing something more there. He wasn't sure what, but it felt just a little odd. Was it more than just a curious question?

Sighing, he folds his arms and cocks his head at Thirteen. "He was part of the Agency. But not like you. He was an agent. He's done some pretty bad things... we caught him trying to hurt one of our own - Scott. He's been uncooperative so he's been kept here. I guess Reese was finally able to pump information out of him, but he hasn't changed his tune at all."

Looking around again, he furrows his brow, changing subjects. "If he did make any noise in there, you wouldn't have been able to hear it from your room. Someone else was obviously here..." His voice trails off as he spies a little folded piece of paper that Hal had missed. It was back in a dark corner like it had fallen then been accidentally kicked.

Going over to it, he picks it up and reads the handwritten note. "Dani, Everything's in the fridge. I'll be there within the hour. Keys in the drawer. Have Aerith help set up. - Carson."

"Dani?" Ryder shakes his head. "But..." Had she been the one here? Had she had the note from her brother stuck in her pocket, then dropped it last night? But... why? If she had been here, surely the cameras had caught something. Even if she knew how to outsmart them, there had to have been a shadow or something that Dalton could catch.

Ryder turns back to Thirteen. "I have to go talk to Dalton and Reese. You can come with me, or stay in your room. It's up to you."

Path

Just looking at Ryder as he talks a small glint of hope is shone in Thirteen's eyes. It was small but it was there non the less.

Giving a small nod Thirteen new it would convay to Ryder she would agree woth what he said and would try her best to believe. Only time would really tell the truth.

"Ok, I will show you. Will they let Trooper back in here with me?"

As if knowing the answer sadness shown in he eyes for her friend as she stood and walked to the door.

"Trooper and I hurd something. I'm not sure what it shoulded like, maybe like cloth but it wasnt heavy sounding."

Opening the door she looks out trying her best not to be scaired. It was busyer out there now than it was last night.

Looking back over her shoulder she makes sure Ryder was right behind her.

"Trooper sniffed and took off down the hall this way so I followed him. I wasnt to...I wanted to be brave and get out of the room so if we took a walk today I might be ok."

Walking down the hall Thirteen keeps her head down not looking at anyone but continuing down the hall before getting to the steps. Remembering last night how it had been so dark and she was scaired, it didnt look so bad now.

"I was scaired to go down here it was really dark but Trooper moved on and so did I."

Going slowly down the steps Thirteen stops at the cell door.

"Trooper saw something and jumped up in the window to look and I moved closer. Alec scaired be when I saw his face appear in the window."

Going to the door she looks in like she had last night.

"We talked a little, asked my name and I asked his he told me..."

Thirteen is silent for a second before continuing to talk.

"...He told me Carson was his brother and I said I hurd a noise so it must of been him. Trooper growled because I dont think he liked Alec. I hurd a clang and got scaired so I hurryed fast back to the room and shut the door till this morning."

Looking down at her hands for a long moment Thirteen is silent. She wanted to ask a question but was scaired. Would Ryder get mad? Figuring she was in enough trouble she wanted to ask anyways.

"Why was Alec locked in this cell? What...what did he do wrong?"

So come on

Ryder grits his teeth as he hears Thirteen's response. "You know..." He approaches slowly and squats down in front of her. "There's only one thing that I won't tolerate from you." His voice is firm, proving he meant business.

Taking a gentle hand, he tips Thirteen's chin up. "Look at me." He stares into her eyes with seriousness. "I don't want you ever to think there's no hope. You are far from a lost cause, Thirteen, and I refuse to give up."

Still locking eyes, he recalls her words earlier. "And I don't want you ever, ever to think you are an embarrassment to me, do you understand? Because you're not, and you never will be. It's time you start realizing that." His crooked finger stays under her chin. "Maybe you're scared. Maybe you feel like you can't handle the world just yet. Maybe it's a harder road than we thought. But so what? You are so worth it, Thirteen. You're not some rag to be tossed in the corner. Not anymore. Not here. That kind of life is over. And I am not going to give up on you."

Standing up, he holds out his hand. "So come on. You're gonna show me where you went last night and explain what happened."

No Hope

Slowly continuing to keep soak in Ryder's wormth and comfort. She wanted to believe him but it was so hard as Alec's words rang in her ears. Not Ryder Alec had to be wrong about Ryder.

Slowly she turns and walks back the way they came with Ryder though she a few times she stops and took a few steps backwards considering she continued to walk on with Ryder.

Entering the room Thirteen keeps her eyes down as to not look at Reese. Taking her place on the floor she just sat and as the two talking she pulled her legs up to her chest and held on to them just listing.

Though Reese and Ryder were whispering Thirteen had amazing hearing and could hear every word, ever whisper that was said and couldnt help but feel lower about herself.

As Reese leaves and Ryder turns to her Thirteen looks up at him for a long moment as her mind darted from so many things. She was hopless and Ryder was on the verge of losing his job because of her.

Looking up at Ryder Thirteen closes her eyes tight before looking at Ryder again.

"I...I dont think you can help me Ryder. You've tryed its no use, there is no hope for me."

Holding her knees and looking down at the ground rocking gently she didnt know what else could be done for her. She was just a lost cause.

Tell me how

"I know, I know, shhh." Ryder keeps his arms around Thirteen and rocks her a little.

Loosening his grip so she can turn, he looks down into her eyes, his own clouded with strange, troubled feelings. "I believe you." He nods and reaches up to wipe away some of her tears with his rough palm. "I'm not going to let them hurt you, okay? You're fine, and everything is fine." His voice is soft and reassuring, but it has a firmness as he tried to calm her down.

"Take a deep breath. They're not going to hurt Trooper, alright. Look, he's okay, see?" He turns a little so Thirteen can see back down the hall.

Though he still had a belt around his muzzle, Trooper was back on his feet, being held firmly by Reese while Hal disappeared into the infirmary with a bleeding arm. Reese is pulling Trooper towards Jason's office to lock him in for the time being.

"See, look." Ryder still holds Thirteen. "He'll be fine. And you'll be fine. Okay?" He rubs her arms a little, still talking. "I know you didn't do anything wrong. I know you're telling the truth and I'll make sure Reese understands. He's just trying to protect his own friends, ya know? Come on."

He starts slowly for the spare room again, keeping a strong arm around her shoulders. There was something he wanted... needed to say. But it would have to wait. For now, he just needed to get Thirteen back in a safe place and get Reese off her back.

By the time they reach the room, Reese has successfully locked up the dog and is returning with quite the unhappy look on his face.

Ryder eases Thirteen inside the room, knowing good and well that they had just experienced a huge setback, and most likely she wouldn't even be comfortable here any more. But he had to talk to Reese without him yelling at her.

Turning to his boss, he keeps Thirteen behind him. "Now look, just cool it a minute. She didn't-"

"Ryder, so help me, I'll-"

"Aw, bite ya bum!" Ryder knew he was risking his job by talking to Reese like this, but he had to get his attention. "She didn't do anything wrong."

"But the tape."

"Cods wallop!" Ryder folds his arms across his chest. "She said she didn't let Alec out, then she didn't let Alec out."

"She's Agency," Reese hisses. "You've had a month with her, Ryder, and she can't even go outside yet. All you're doing is stalling the inevitable."

The words sting in a new way, and Ryder recalls Thirteen's own words just minutes before. He'd rather not say some things in front of Thirteen, but he doesn't have a choice. He lowers his voice, looking at Reese with earnest. "Look at her... for just a moment, really look at her." His tone begs him. "She's not a trap and she's not an agent out to get us. She's someone's daughter, Reese. She was someone's little girl. Can't you see that? Can't you think one moment, as if she were yours? She's innocent. And she deserves to be shown she's worth more than answering questions. She's worth the effort to see her through this and help her. ...Please."

Reese takes a deep breath and lets it out slowly. "You've been disrespectful, you've gone against direct orders, and you've been unwilling to stick to protocol. But..." he shrugs lamely. "I'll give you one day... one day to prove she didn't have anything to do with Alec's disappearance. If you can't prove anything... she gets turned over to me, then removed from TJY."

Ryder swallows hard, but nods. It was the only open window now. He'd struck a cord somewhere, and it had bought him some time. Seeing Reese spin around and walk away, Ryder slowly turns to face Thirteen again. His eyes tell it all. He was so sorry. "Tell me how to help you, Thirteen."

Protect me

Hearing Reese voice, and than Ryder the fear is still with in her as she just to run. Hearing the dog's yelp behind her make her cring and stop for a moment before going to the sapply closet looking back at her friend behind held down.

She wanted to help him, they were hurting him. But the bref moment of stopping was enough for Ryder to get to her. Feeling herself being pulled to him for a moment she struggles still trying to get away her words coming from her mouth.

"No...I dont want to go back, I dont like it there anymore please..dont let him get me I didnt do anything I didnt let him out."

She struggaling starts to slow as the warmth of Ryder's arms breaks through the cold fear she had, and his words are receaved.

Tears formed in her eyes now as she let them flow freely. She was still so scaired.

"I was just following Trooper, and I saw Alec and he talked to me. Than I got scaired and Trooper and I went back...I didnt let him out, please dont let him hurt me again."

Finally Thirteen has stoped struggaling...Ryder wouldnt let anything happen to her, he'd keep her safe like Trooper did.

Bringing her hands up to his musciler arms she leans her head into his chest a few tears still coming from her eyes. Closing them tight she whispers.

"Please dont let them hurt Trooper eather he was just trying to protect me like you told him too."

Trust me

Though Trooper was barking and the room was in chaos, Ryder hears Thirteen's words. Catching what she says about wanting to be brave and not embarrassing him, something inside of him breaks. Halting the fight for just a moment, he looks at her with a stare that was beyond emotional. In the heat of the moment, did he feel he hot sting behind his eyes?

Thirteen bolts. Reese whips around to go after her, but Trooper is right there, still snarling and snapping. "Thirteen, get back here!" he shouts angrily.

Ryder dodges to the door, but takes one moment to spin around with a look that could kill. "You have no idea the setback you've just caused," he hisses. He sprints out into the hall, but Trooper is on his heels, almost getting a mouthful of denim as he goes for Ryder's legs.

Hal has heard the commotion and was in another room. Stepping out at just the right moment, he takes the dog by surprise and grabs him by the collar. Trooper is choked to a halt and whips his head back, teeth barred.

Hal cries out as the dog's teeth sink into his arm. Before Trooper can fight any more though, Reese is on top of him, using his belt as a quick muzzle and tightening it around the dog's mouth to clamp it shut. Trooper whines and shakes his head, trying to struggle out of his predicament, but unable to bite, and having two men on top of him, he winds up on the floor, whining as he watches down the hall.

Ryder doesn't stop. "Thirteen, wait!" His tennis shoes hit the tiled floor and his strides lengthen behind her. He reaches her just as she's about to duck into one of the supply rooms. He doesn't want to scare her further, but he had to use some force to get this whole thing to stop. One hand goes for her arm, the other goes around her front, well under her chin to bring her back against himself in a tight hold.

"Calm down." His own heart is pounding, and he has to try and catch his breath. Thirteen's strength is surprising and he struggles to hold her back. "You're okay, you're okay," he tries to comfort. "I'm not going to hurt you. Please... just calm down."

His arms around her are warm and strong and he tries to be gentle. The strange pain is still in his eyes. "Please," he begs. If she didn't calm down, she'd be taken away, and his chances to restore her would be over. "Trust me." His words are spoken softly in her ear. "I'm not going to let anything happen to you."