Slip

Just letting the corner of her mouth stay curled Ryan gives a small shakes of her head before going back inside and grabbing her keys.

Going back outside Ryan gives Leo a light punch to his arm before making her way to her car and yelling over her shoulder.

"If your coming you better hurry, I am not one to wait around. And dont bleed in my car."

Once making sure Leo was in the car Ryan gives a half wave to Alex before pulling out of the parking lot and making her way slowly down the street. Giving a chuckle to herself she gives a glance in Leo's direction quickly before looking back to the street.

"You know, since your coming with me and I am the driving your gonna have to ware the extra set of cute gold short shorts and low cut tank top I have in the back."

Though the grin on her face was now gone the twinkle in her eye was not that showed she was kidding.

Giving one last glance in the rear view mirror to make sure no one was behind them Ryan pushes down on the gas make the car speed down the road the wind blowing in her hair as she enjoyed the speed.

Seeing that she scared Ryder Thirteen cant help the laugh that forms in her throat as she brings a hand to her mouth. It was strange for her to have startled Ryder.

"Oops, I guess I didn't expect that to happen!"

Looking down at the water on the floor Thirteen raises an eyebrow before looking up at Ryder again.

"Yeah, I'm ok. Just couldn't sleep very well is all. New surroundings and all."

Leaning over the counter a little to grab the towel Thirteen can't reach it so moving her feet just a little she trys to get closer. Her foot stepping on some water that was not known about. Feeling her feet slip Thirteen can't doing anything as she feels herself start to fall backwards.

Okay?

Leo smirks at Ryan, his eyes narrowing, though his mouth turns up in a grin. "Naw, I always have good points... just so happens that you actually recognized it this time."

The grin becomes a full smile at the offer to go with her. "Only if I can finally get a ride in your car."


With his back turned, Ryder slowly sips his water, his eyes focusing on a far window as his mind wanders.

Suddenly hearing Thirteen close behind him, he's caught totally by surprise. He'd been trying not to scare her, but now she'd done it to him instead.

Whirling around too quickly, his hand jerks. The water in his glass can't defy the laws of nature, and fly as his hand does. Before he knows it, there's water on his shirt and the floor.

He blinks and looks to Thirteen, then back at his half-empty glass. "Um... yeah... had a hard time sleeping out there I guess."

Giving a chuckle at himself, he throws the rest of his water in the sink and shakes his head. Sighing, he cocks his head at Thirteen and opens his mouth, but then shuts it again, once more not saying what had crossed his mind a few minutes earlier. "You okay in here?"

Wast

Giving a glance to Reese, Axel and than the car that held Carson and Alec Ryan gives a small sigh. Maybe she had been a little hard on Alec when he was starting to sober up. She couldn't help it though her rough exterior shielded her from a guy she didn't know even if she wanted to try and help them.

Turning at Leo's voice Ryan is pulled back from her thought her back now to the car. Giving a sly grin at Leo's comment Ryan cant help but give a nod as she agrees.

It wasn't often she felt lonely but all day today had been one of those days and she just wanted company. If Leo would go, than at least it would be someone.

"You know its not often you have a good point. Guess I shouldn't wast this one when who knows when you next one will come."

The humor twinkles in Ryan's eyes as she teases Leo.

"Wanna come with me?"

Putting the guitar back down on the stand Thirteen hears the door open and stands up quickly her ears alert and her defenses rising. It was more than likly just Ryder but she couldn't help the pounding of her heart.

Taking a few steps forward Thirteen see the kitchen light go on and a shadow thats cast on the floor. Knowing the form that was cast Thirteen rolls her eyes at herself and gives a small smile.

Going into the kitchen she walks slowly as her feet scuff across the floor. Giving a cough she knows her cover of being there is now blown. Giving a soft laugh.

"Your lucky I didn't set Trooper on sick mode."

Looking down at Trooper Thirteen gives a gentile pat on his head feeling silly again. Trooper hadn't made a move and that should of been the first sign that it was only Ryder that had come in.

Letting out a sigh she moves to the sink to stand contemplating maybe getting a drink herself.

"Couldn't sleep eather huh?"

Music

Leo almost seems disappointed that someone had come to get information about what had happened. The look on his face portrayed that he felt he'd been "this" close to actually winning some of Ryan's attentions.

Smirking a little, he follows Ryan through the shop to get back to the office where Reese and Axel still were.

Reese nods at Ryan as she talks and he jots down a few notes. "Sounds pretty cut and dry." He turns to Leo. "And you?"

Leo just thumbs towards Ryan. "What she said."

Reese quirks an eyebrow, not thrilled with the lack of details, but he lets it go. With Axel and Ryan's accounts, he had what he needed to turn into the police. "Anything missing?"

Axel shakes his head. "Naw, he didn't get away with anything."

"Any damage done?"

"No." Axel shakes his head again. "Unless you count a little ding in the shelf there, but it's far less damage than the bump that guy's got on his head."

Reese almost smiles. "Alright. Thanks for calling us down here, Axel. I'm glad you recognized him. If you have any trouble connected with this, or you do find some damage, please let us know and we'll help you get it straightened out."

"Thanks." Axel wanders to the door with Reese, looking out at the waiting car. He gives Carson a casual salute, receiving one in return. Though Carson didn't show much feeling connected with Alec, Axel knew that deep down his friend was probably dealing with some pretty confusing emotions. All he could do was keep praying for him.


Leo sighs and leans back against the counter, cradling his hand that was growing more sore. He looks to the clock, then to Ryan. "You could make it if you ignore the speed limit out on fifty-six." A crooked grin emerges. "You wouldn't want a petty thief to ruin your race tonight, would you?"


Ryder's eyes aren't even close to being closed when his ears catch a strange sound. It was faint, but it almost sounded like a guitar. Odd... He sits up on the hood of the car, cocking his head. Yes, it did sound like a guitar and it was coming from inside the house. Did he hear singing too? He wasn't quite sure. It takes him a moment, then he realizes what must be going on. A small smile turns up the corner of his mouth.

Unable to help his curiosity, he slides slowly off the hood and ambles closer to the house. He wanted to know what Thirteen was up to. He figured she'd discovered one of Jason's guitar, but he was a little surprised that she'd taken the initiative to check it out.

Leaning against the house, he presses his ear to the door and is able to make out the music and words she was singing. For someone just picking up an instrument for the first time, she wasn't doing a terrible job at all. Ryder wondered if she did have some talents that had been hidden deep down from so many years of being held back.

He's ready to simply turn back and leave her alone, when he catches the words she's singing. He stops and listens, a lump rising in his throat. He'd known that she felt like she needed him... but now he knew she even recognized that need. It made something stir inside of him that hadn't been touched in a long time.

Ryder looks back to the car. He couldn't sleep out here no matter how hard he tried. And he was thirsty. And it sounded like Thirteen couldn't sleep either. What other excuses did he need to check on her? He rolls his eyes at himself.

The music had stopped now, so he goes ahead and opens the door, quietly slipping inside. He knew the sound would get Thirteen's attention so he didn't need to announce himself. Instead, he simply goes to the kitchen to pour himself a glass of water. There was something he wanted to say to her but... he figured that just getting his water was the best option.


"You're nothin', Scott."

Another hit to the face.

"Come on, you're not even trying."

Whack.

"Can't you see it coming? Now come on, pay attention!"

Smack.

"You don't deserve to be an Agent."

Scott tries to duck another blow and holds his hands up in defense, struck again, this time hard enough to knock him down onto the mat. He pants, his hair dripping with sweat. "I can't..." He tries to catch his breath. "Can't... do it."

"You will do it."

"But-"

"Get up!"

Scott is yanked to his feet. He takes another hit to the side of his face, maddening him enough to strike back.

"Better. Better. Watch yourself. Keep up that arm. Watch your feet!"

Scott's feet go out from under him, knocking the wind out of him. He just lies there, breathless and unable to get himself up again.

"Okay... we're through for today."

"What-"

"Tomorrow, again."

Sounds

As an hour goes by Thirteen continues to lay on the ground with Trooper close by but the time just moves as sleep doesn't find her. Though he mind was blank she tryed to see beyond the darkness in her mind where the fear of the unknown was.

Sitting up from her make shiftbed Thirteen lets out a long sigh resting her head in her hand for a moment. Looking up she is met with Troopers eyes looking back at her. Bringing a hand out to she runs it through Troopers few and lets out a another small sigh.

"I guess even here sleep it not easly found."

Giving a little jump as the house creeks with the blowing wind Thirteen looks around as if expecting to see someone standing there. Seeing no one Thirteen rolls her eyes and looks back to Trooper cocking her head.

"Someday I will be normal."

Standing again Thirteen's eyes scan the room seeing the guitar once more. She was so fascinated with this instrument. She had seen them before but never had she actully heard one.

Picking the gutair up once more Thirteen runs her fingers over the strings as she makes her way back to the couch and sits down places the instramint gently in her lap. This was not hers and though she was intrested in it she did not want to break it.

Gentily Thirteen picks the strings as a few horrable sounds come from it. Cringing a little and looking to Trooper her face shows her sorrys to him at the sound.

Continuing to play with the gutair Thirteen continues to play trying to make something sound good. Though getting the hang of it slowly she spots the pick on the table. Picking it up she holds it in her fingers as she continues to play.

Finally making a tone that might not be right but sounds good Thirteen smiles at herself. Closing her eyes she continues to play putting a few twists here and there as quietly at first words come from her lips.

My tea's gone cold, I'm wondering why
I got out of bed at all
The morning rain clouds up my window
and I can't see at all
And even if I could it'd all be grey,
but your picture on my wall
It reminds me that it's not so bad,
it's not so bad

even know how to really thank him, but she really was Thought she wasnt sure where the words spoke came from Thirteen new who they were about and she couldnt help but smile a little more. Ryder had helped her so much already and she didntgreatful.

I want to thank you
for giving me the best day of my life
Oh just to be with you
is having the best day of my life

As the soft music dies Thirteen hits a wrong note or two but dosnt really pay much mine to it. Just setting the gutair down Thirteen leans back in the couch and just stairs off into space once more.

Giving a short chuckle and a silly smile Ryan continues to clean up Leo's hand.

"This, I've had worse than this. I race cars remember?"

Finally looking up Ryan catchs Leo looking at her and for a moment her eyes search his before looking away again. She new the look that was in Leo's eyes and she new he liked her. Than again Leo liked any female.

Feeling the gentil hand on her face a tingle shoots through her never really feeling such a gentil hand on her. Giving another smile she looks to Leo just looking at him for a short moment. Opening her mouth to say something to Leo Ryan stops as she hears Axel's voice call to them.

The last wrap is complete on Leo's hand when she gives his arm a gentil pat. Standing she starts to walk to the door.

"Sounds like the big guys wanna talk to us."

Giving a sigh and a silly grin she shakes her head before disapearing out the door.

"So much for the race tonight."

Exiting the office and making her way to the front, than stepping outside Ryan gives a small nod to Reese in acknowledgement to saying hello. Being bref Ryan goes over how everything went down from her view point.

"...I went around back and saw Leo was in trouble and Axel as well. I needed to move fast if I wanted to help them. I did what I could and hit him taking him off guard to Leo could get away and we could get the weapon away from him. He hit me, Leo hit him, and here we are now."

Ryan cross her arms as her face stings a little but trys not to flinch with the pain. She didnt like officers much but she new this had to be done. If she just gave the information they wanted they would leave and that would be that.

Hands

Ryder sinks down behind the steering wheel, leaning his head back and closing his eyes. His cell phone was in his pocket, and he dreaded getting a call, but it's what he'd decided and he was going to stick to it. Thirteen deserved more than being stuffed in the spare room forever.

Shifting his weight, Ryder yawns and folds his arms. But his position doesn't last long. A few minutes later, the seat is leaning back and he's trying to avoid the pedals at his feet.

Ten minutes and a cramp in his leg force him into the back seat where he fights with lack of space to stretch out. The car rocks as he roots around. When his head hits the door handle for the fourth time, he crawls up into the passenger seat instead. With that chair back as far as it can go and reclined as far as it can go, Ryder sets his feet up on the dash. Within fifteen minutes, his legs have fallen asleep, but he himself is far from the rest he seeks.

Giving a loud grunt, he throws open the door. The night air was warm and would have been stale, but a cool breeze was blowing to relieve the temperature. Ryder gets out of the car and leans his arms on the roof for a moment, sighing deeply. After a few moments, he moves and climbs onto the hood, lounging back against the windshield with his hands up behind his head. The stars were out tonight. He couldn't see as many as he could back home... back in Australia, that is. But at least there were a few that broke through the darkness. The moon was bright as well. Was it possible that it was the same moon that shone in Australia?

He hadn't had much time lately to reflect... he'd been kept busy enough. But tonight... being out here... it was quiet. And he missed home again. He felt so out of place here. Maybe being at TJY really wasn't what he should be doing here. He wanted to be a part of it... but if there was anything he didn't feel like, it was being "elite." Maybe he should just get out of Reese's hair and find something else. Maybe he could even go back to a different part of Australia. Start new there instead.

Taking a lung full of air, he holds it a moment before letting it out slowly. Some things were so easy. Some things were so hard. Now if only he could get to sleep so he would stop thinking about it.


Leo winces as Ryan cleans the cut on the top of his hand. Grimacing, he tries to act like it's nothing, though. After a moment, his eyes drift up from his hand to Ryan's face instead. "Looks like you need to see to your own battle scar," he comments.

Bringing his other hand up, he traces around the red mark where Alec had slapped her. "I shoulda slugged him before he got you like that."


"You've got to be kidding me."

Axel turns around quickly at the sound of Carson's voice. "Well I don't know about Reese, but I'm certainly not kidding. This him?"

Carson rolls his eyes. "Yeah. The idiot. What did he want and how did he end up here?"

"Don't know. Looked like he was just trying to get to some cash when Leo walked in here. He held Leo with a letter opener to the throat, then Ryan came in through the back so we could surprise him. Worked okay. Leo got cut on the hand and Ryan got slapped but... as you can see, we got him down."

Reese looks over the counter and shakes his head. "I'd still like to know how he got out."

Carson goes around and kneels next to his brother and gives him a shake. "Hey. Alec. Wake up."

Getting a light slap to the face, Alec blinks, then immediately tries to slug Carson. Carson is faster though, and grabs his wrists. "Steady on," he growls. "You're coming with us." Yanking Alec to his feet, he gives no mercy.

Alec gives a shout as he's back on his feet. "No! Let me go! You can't hold me forever!"

Reese grumbles a complaint about having to deal with people like this, then approaches to easily slap his wrists in handcuffs. "You're right. We can't. Which means, you'll probably end up behind bars. How's that?"

Fire flashes in Alec's eyes but he doesn't answer.

Reese nods to Carson. "Take him out to the car. I want to talk to the others here."

Carson obeys, taking Alec outside.

Taking the hint, Axel opens the door to the shop and hollers to Ryan and Leo. "Hey, guys - we need to tell what happened. Come back for a minute."


Once Carson is outside, he shoves Alec towards the waiting car and spares no brute force, getting him into the back seat before slamming the door. Sliding into the passenger seat, he waits, prepared for a quiet wait. But Alec seemed determined to talk for some reason.

"You want to blame someone for me getting out?" A crooked smile spreads on Alec's face, as if he's proud of getting out, even though he'd been caught.

Carson quirks an eyebrow. "I think you're the one at fault here."

"Maybe. But why don't you ask our sister?"

"Dani?" Now Carson is on edge. "She had nothing to do with this and you know it!"

"You sure?" Alec taunts him. "You know she came to see me a couple times..."

"Dani wouldn't let you out," Carson snarls. "She knows better."

"Does she?"

"Shut your trap." Carson leans against the window, not wanting to hear any more. But something in the back of his mind evoked doubt. Why would Alec have made that up?

A little bit

Giving a nod Thirteen watches as Ryder leaves the house. Moving slowly to the window she just watches for a long moment as he walks, down the walkway and to his car.

She'd never had someone be so nice to her before let alone, let her stay in such a big house. Hearing a few unfamiliar noises makes her jump but Thirteen trys her best to stay calm. She needed to do this, and though she was scared she new she had to stay here and try not to bother Ryder. Than maybe, just maybe Reese would see she was ok.

Going over to the couch Thirteen sits down on the floor and gentil pats Troopers head. Looking around she spots the pillow and the blankets.

Getting up again she grabs a blanket and pillow but something else catches her eye. She new what a guitar was but she never played one before.

Throwing the pillow and blanket aside for the moment Thirteen bent down to run her hand over the strings. Feeling them on her fingers was strange but it felt kind of good. Plucking one of the strings lets out a loud noise that she wasnt exspecting that made her jump even if she new thats what it did.

Decieding to leave it alone for now she grabs the blanket and pillow again making her bed on the floor. Laying down she just staired at the dark TV her mind going all differnt ways at once.

Confused for a second and almost stuned Ryan just looks at Alec. When she had first met him the vibe she had gotten was so differnt than it was now. Had she really been that wrong about him.

Finally the sharp sting of the slap kicks in as Ryan brings her hand to her face checking out the damage and making sure there was no blood. It would leave a nice mark, but she hadnt been busted open.

Her own defence was now kicked up and Alec was no longer someone she thought she could trust and the vibe she had before about him being a good guy was guy. Now she looked to him as a stranger, all trust, all hope for a friend was for now gone.

Looking to Alec and than back to Leo as he lands a punch to him a small smile was on her lips. She couldnt help the small peace that seemed to well inside her at thinking maybe Leo had done that for her honnor.

Once the commotion is over, and people had been called for Alec Ryan makes her way over to Leo. Taking his hand gentily in her she looks at it before flipping it over. Giving a small grin she cant help the gleam of scarcasem in her eyes.

"This little cut is what you were wining about?"

Shaking her head a little she pulls Leo twords the door and leaves the office. Taking him around to the breakroom she takes the first aid kit from the shelf and opens it up. Taking a small alchole pad from the box she gives a small smile to Leo.

"This is gonna hurt a little bit."

Her own face was swelling but for now it went unattended as she tryed to clean Leo up first.

Truce

Ryder can't help his warm smile that spreads at Thirteen's words. It felt good to be needed again. He felt so out of place everywhere else, but at least someone needed him. Part of him almost wished it wouldn't end. But he knew the more stable Thirteen grew, the more independent she would be - as she should be. It was only right, and that was the whole point here. But he didn't look forward to being without purpose again.

Giving a little chuckle, he shakes his head. "You let me worry about how much trouble I'll be in. Reese won't be happy but... by the time he figures out where I am, it'll be too late anyway. He's a good man... and I bet he really wants to trust you and wants to make sure you're taken care of. He's just in a bad position to be a friend right now."

He turns towards the door, but looks back over his shoulder for a moment. "You don't need to thank me. Just get some rest... there's some blankets and pillows by the couch and... if you get scared, just come get me."


Alec had not heard the back door open, and is taken completely by surprise. Getting hit to the knees, his legs buckle, and he whirls around, only to have his arm caught in Ryan's firm grip. The letter opener goes clanging to the floor - a result of her efforts.

Leo doesn't hesitate to do as he's told, and he stumbles forward out of Alec's hold.

Axel steps up to help Ryan, grabbing Alec's other arm and twisting it around to slam him up against the wall.

Alec is in fight mode and kicks out at Axel's shin to knock him off balance, then turns on Ryan. Fire blazes in his eyes, proving that his subdued behavior earlier had been due to his drinking, not due to a submissive nature. Cornered by these three, his defenses had risen to the maximum, and all he wanted was out. He was desperate. The back of his hand strikes across the side of Ryan's face with a loud smack.

Before he can turn back to Axel though, a bloody fist connects with his jaw, sending him hard into the corner. His head ricochets off the corner of a shelf that was protruding from the wall. Blinking, he teeters, then slowly slumps down in the corner, made unconscious by the shelf's blunt edge.

Axel looks to Leo with wide eyes. "Nice one."

Leo is breathing heavily, and holds his hand that now was bleeding worse from the slash across the top of it. "Thanks. I told Darrell we needed to keep a gun in here." Looking around, he tries to find a clean rag or paper towel, but nothing is within sight, so he just keeps his other hand over the wound as some blood runs down his arm. "Oh this is nice," he grumbles. His eyes glance to Ryan. "Thanks to you, it isn't my throat that's bleeding all over the place. He smacked you pretty good though. You alright?"

Axel is busy looking down at Alec. There was only one thing that made him doubt his instincts that had kicked in based on the young man's appearance and voice. But before he called the police directly, he would call somewhere else.

Going for the phone, he picks it up and has to think a moment before dialing. "Yeah, hi, um, this is Axel Thornton... I'm friends with Carson Banks." He nods at the male voice he knew must be Reese's. At this evening hour, probably the secretary had gone home. "We just had an attempted robbery down at an auto shop where I work and... well I feel a little silly asking this, but Carson's brother, Alec... he's still in custody, right?" His eyebrows rise at Reese's response. "Yeah, yeah, we can hold him." He rattles off the address before hanging up and looking back over to the still-unconscious form. "Looks like your luck just ran out, buddy."


Reese hangs up the phone in a hurry and tears off the notepad paper where he’d scribbled the address.

Stalking across the main floor, he halts at the cubicle where Carson was working. “Carson.”

Carson’s head shoots up. He had been so engrossed in what he was looking at on the computer that he hadn’t even noticed Reese was close. “Yeah?”

“We found Alec.”

“Good. Where’s he at?”

“An auto shop. Axel Thornton called.”

Carson’s eyebrows rise. How on earth had Alec ended up there, and why? “Is everybody okay?”

“Yeah. Sounds like Alec was trying to rob the place. I’m going to pick him up now. You want to come.”

“Sure.” Carson was just as glad to get his brother back behind bars. Having him loose was not good. Having any Agency scum loose wasn’t good. He shuts down the computer. Unfortunately, he hadn’t found anything anyway. Time was running out, but if the information he was looking for didn’t exist… then there was nothing he could do. He grabs his hat and slaps it on his head. “Lead the way.”


“I’ve decided not to leave.”

Hunter opens one eye lazily as he lies on the hotel bed. The room had been clear for a while, most of the others going down for a dip in the pool. Now Kyle had roused Hunter from his nap. “I thought you told Jordan you were.”

Kyle sits down on the other bed and nods. “I did.” It had been a very tense day. After what had happened yesterday, Kyle had told Jordan he was pulling out. But ever since, Alice’s words kept coming back to him over and over, and he just couldn’t do it. He and Hunter had not spoken since their fight, and it wasn’t making things any better. “But I changed my mind.”

Hunter sighs. He hadn’t really wanted his friend to leave… but it was hard getting over everything too. “So now what?”

“I’d like a truce if you’re willing.”

Hunter opens his other eye and rolls over onto his side to see Kyle fully. “Truce? After all that?”

“Why not? I’m not giving up Alice, but I don’t want to lose you as a friend either.”

Hunter sighs deeply and looks down a moment. It wasn’t fun being at odds. “I’m sorry,” he apologizes quietly. “I just… felt bad, ya know?” He looks back up at Kyle. “Then I didn’t say anything and it just got worse and worse and…” He shrugs lamely.

“I’m sorry too,” Kyle admits. “I lied when I said Alice didn’t mean anything to me. She has for a long time.”

“Well why didn’t you say anything?”

“I guess… I was scared. I’ve always been the guy in second place. I didn’t figure it would be much different with Alice but… it turned out it was. I’m sorry if you felt like I betrayed you.”

“I did.” Hunter finally sits up to face his friend. “But I shouldn’t have fought with you. I liked Alice… I still do. But… I’ll get over it.”

“Good.” Kyle extends his hand. “Truce?”

Hunter rolls his eyes, but a laugh finds its way out and he takes Kyle’s hand. “Alright. Truce. But next time-"

“Hopefully there won’t be a next time.”

“Right.” Hunter flops back down on the bed. “Now go join the others so I can get my nap in that keeps being interrupted.”

Kyle chuckles and shakes his head. “Okay. Thanks, Hunter.”

“Yeah, yeah.” Hunter waves him off, his eyes already closed. Hearing Kyle get up and leave, he only opens his eyes again when he hears the door shut. Rolling onto his side, he stares at the wall for a few minutes. It still hurt. But he was glad that he and Kyle had a chance to mend what had been broken. It still was upsetting. But at least the team wouldn’t suffer a setback because of it.

Thanks

Hearing the voice from the other side of the office Ryan zones in thats its not Leo. Starting forward she stops for a moment as she listens closer and catches a few things here and there.

That voice there was something about it, she had heard it before. As Axel's hand catches her attachen Ryan looks down before it even has time to process she already had though about the back door, and was starting there.

Looking through the small window on the door Ryan peeking to the room slowly not making suddin movement to catch attachen.

Seeing the back of Alec Ryan is saprised for a moment. Why was Alec here and what was he doing. Was he really in that much trouble? Did he have those many problems? Ryan almost felt bad for him untill she caught a glimps of Leo and the letter opener to his throat.

The reality of the situation braught Ryan back down to what was happening and what she had to do.

Slowly opening the door making sure not to make any noise Ryan steps in for a moment she catches Alex's eye giving him a small nod convaying an unsaid plan. She was going to take him down and than he would act.

In a few swift moments Ryan lunged for Alec aiming for his knees Ryan hits him and grabs his hand as well yanking his arm from Leo's throat.

"Leo, move."

Ryan new he would and moved twords the direction he would go knowing Axel would act quickly as well.

Listing to Ryder words tears spring into Thirteen's eyes but this time they are for a much differnt reason. She'd never had someone care about her before and it braught a whole new set of emotions she never felt before.

Looking up at Ryder Thirteen's smile widens as her eyes give a twinkle. Alec had been wrong about Ryder, she new it.

Right now Ryder had made her feel like more than a speck of dirt. She felt like a princess in one of her books who had found there knight. He didnt have a white horse, but he did a good job.

"Thank you, I care about you too and I hope you dont get into to much trouble. Your the only friend I ever had Ryder. Thank you!"

Silent warning

Axel snickers at Ryan teasing Leo and waits for Leo's yelled response back. But nothing came.


Leo wants to shout back to Ryan, but knows better. At the moment, he feared for his life.

Alec blinks. Was that Ryan's voice? He hadn't seen her, and now he wasn't sure if she was here or not. But he couldn't stop to care about it. He was here to do a quick job of this.

Leo swallows hard, feeling the blade against his skin. It wasn't as sharp as a knife, but it would do just fine, especially with the pressure whoever it was, was applying. "What... what do you want-"

"Shut up," Alec hisses. "Where's the key to the money drawer?"

"I...I don't... I mean-"

"Where?!" Alec's whispers are hoarse and he tightens his grip. "Tell me now."

"In... in the bottom..." Leo lamely points to another set of desk drawers. He winces as Alec moves and the letter opener digs into his flesh. Cringing, he can feel a bit of blood ooze down his neck. He wasn't a religious man, but a prayer for help was definitely thought of.

Alec shoves Leo towards the drawer, keeping a firm hand on him the whole while.


Axel quirks an eyebrow at the silence, and turns his attention from the car and his hand. "Hey, Leo!" he calls out. "You smash those remaining brain cells or what?"

Nothing.

Axel looks at Ryan and frowns. Maybe Leo really had hurt himself this time. Axel sets down his wrench, still cradling his one hand, and he wanders towards the office. "Leo..." He swings open the door. "What are you..." The phrase trails off, and he stops dead, the half-open door still in his hand.

Alec's head jerks up and he shifts Leo around, the letter opening still held against the vulnerable skin. "Back off," he snarls.

"Whoa, whoa..." Axel's heart beats faster as he tries to figure out what was going on. Evidently this was someone out to rob him. But something was uncannily familiar about him, and Axel immediately recognized the resemblance he saw. "What's going-"

"Get in here," Alec snaps, hoping to maintain an eye on the newcomer so he didn't call the cops. "Do as I say, or your friend dies."

Hesitating a moment, all Axel can do is motion with his hand behind his back, waving towards the back entrance. He hoped Ryan would see him. If she went around back, she could come in through the other door and take this guy by surprise. Or, she could see in the window and call the cops. Either way, he couldn't let her come through this way.

Hoping she'd seen him, he slips inside, obeying the thief for fear of Leo being harmed.

Leo cringes as Alec's weight shifts and the blade increases pressure. His one free hand gripped Alec's wrist, but it didn't do any good. This guy was very strong and knew what he was doing.

"Get the key," Alec barks to Axel this time.

Axel obeys, but moves slowly. His mind raced. There had to be a way out of this. "Look, if you need-"

Alec wasn't going to take the time for games. In one quick movement, he lowers the blade, only to reach across and slash the top of Leo's hand, letting the blood run.

Leo cries out in pain, but can't struggle as the letter opener is again pressed to his throat. He presses his free hand against his side to ease the bleeding, but since it was the top of his hand, it was difficult.

"Now move!" Alec directs Axel again. "Or next time it won't just be his hand."


Ryder shrugs lamely at Thirteen's question. "I guess... because I think you're worth it. You deserve more than you've been dished out in your life and... I like being your friend. Everybody needs somebody they can trust."

He cocks his head. "Why wouldn't I help you? Besides, what everybody else does is their own choice. Reese will hit the roof when he knows I've got you here, but... I did it because I care about you, Thirteen. And you're worth every minute."

Why

Going over quickly to Axel as he grabs his hands in pain Ryan looks to him with sympathy. She wished there was something that could be done for Axel. She'd kept his secret from Derril but she wondered how long it would be before he noticed.

"You know if you ever need help Axel I can stay late sometime too. It's getting worse isnt it?"

Gently reaching down Ryan helps Axel up. Though concern was in her eyes her humor was still held behind them. Axel didnt want peoples pitty and she wouldnt give it to him. She would only be there to help if he needed it.

Going around to the other side of the car Ryan leans against it and watches as Leo runs into the office. Turning her head back to Axel for a moment Ryan leans a little to look around the hood.

"That guy is something else you know that?!"

Shaking her head she is about to say more when she hears the noise in the office. Snapping her head up her eyes just squint for a moment as she listens to hear anything more. Turning back to Axel at his comment she cant help but grin and shake her head.

Calling out so Leo could hear.

"Don't hit your head to hard Leo, you only have a cretin amount of braincells and I think you are down to your last ten. We don't want to lose you now."

Getting into the car with Ryder and Trooper Thirteen sits in the front seat. Everyonce and a while she reaches back and gives the dogs fer a ruffle.

Sitting quietly Thirteen just looks out the window as she watches everything they went by. Even once and a while hitting a bump in the road made her jump making her think back to other times but bringing herself back she does her best to stay calm.

Once getting to the house and entering Thirteen was very cerous as her eyes roamed everything. Following Ryder through the house her eyes take note to some pictures that lined the walls and differnt things that where laying around here and there.

Entering the living room where Ryder pointed everything out Thirteen looks around and steps forward. For a moment though her eyes stop on the gutair that layed over in the courner for a moment her mind was peeked with this new item.

But she is braught back down to earth when Ryder spoke again. Looking at him for a moment she didnt understand why he was telling her where everything was than finally it dawned on her. It was almost hard to believe.

Looking at Ryder she walks over to him and looks up into his eyes for a moment. Why...that was the only question she had to ask as Alec's words about who these people were came back to her.

"Ryder, why....why are you helping me when non of your other friends will?"

Intruder

Axel and Leo both smile as Ryan joins them in the shop.

"I have plenty to do other than hang around here," Leo responds. "Now him..." He thumbs to Axel. "He doesn't have a life. I've been trying to pull him out of his shell but he just aagghhh!" Leo teeters backward as he's pulled into a choke hold. "Axel!"

Axel keeps a firm, but friendly grip around Leo's throat with his arm, and looks over to Ryan, his eyes twinkling. "What Leo is trying to say is that yes, we both have plenty we do besides work, but we have such a great work ethic that we have to make sure our jobs are completed to the fullest, even if it means staying late." He releases Leo, giving him a little shove.

Leo stumbles forward, then whirls around, whipping out a rag to swat Axel with. Axel was still quicker though, and catches the flying rag, giving it a swift tug to yank Leo closer, then hooks his ankle.

Leo goes down onto the concrete floor with a thud and a groan. "Ohhh," he moans. "When am I gonna learn not to go up against you?"

"Learn how to dance," Axel advises, tossing the rag aside. "Now... where's my wrench?"

"Um..." Leo looks up from the floor. "Somewhere?"

Axel rolls his eyes and find his wrench, leaning back over the engine again. Not a moment later though, the tool is clanging back to the floor. Axel spins around the other side of the car and doubles over as he holds his hand, the pain shooting through it like persistent knives. He grits his teeth to hold back what he really wanted to say.

Leo's eyes widen and he stands up, the teasing gone. "Hey, man, you alright?"

Axel nods, breathing through the pain.

Leo isn't convinced, and looks to Ryan, then back to his friend. "You've been working late because you've been having more trouble with your hand, haven't you?"

Axel rubs his hand, trying to stop the pain and tingling. The numbness would be here soon then he wouldn't be able to work for at least another half an hour. He hadn't even told Jess how bad the spells had gotten. "Don't tell Darrell." He looks over to plead with Leo. "I can't lose this job."

"But your hand... you're not gonna be able to keep up with the work if you keep having trouble with it and-"

"Shut it, Leo," Axel snaps.

Leo immediately retreats, his eyes flickering with surprise. Axel never snapped at him. "You want help on the car?"

"No..." Axel manages to straighten back up as the numbness began. "Maybe. I don't know. You got things to do."

"Well but-"

"I'm fine." Axel's voice was back on an even keel, and he retrieves the fallen wrench. Leaning back into the engine, he fumbles, trying to get the job done with one hand until the spasm wore off.



Alec skids to a stop on a street corner and looks both ways. Breathing heavily, he bends to catch his breath. He was glad this end of town was so quiet this evening. Fewer eyes. Fewer risks of being caught.

The further he went, the clearer his head got. The clearer his head got, the more determination he had to survive. The more determination he got, the less fear bothered him.

He'd been stupid to go out and get drunk. He should have been making plans, but instead, he'd been out for hours, then hit his typical mellow stage after being drunk. Unfortunately, it had been with someone else, and he'd let his guard down like a lost dog looking for shelter. He'd been just as stupid to let someone help him. Back to his senses though, the world looked different. Now all he needed was to find the one contact he had in order to lay low then figure out how to get out of this mess and back into the Agency's good graces. What had he been thinking with Ryan anyway? He didn't have a clue. But he should have taken advantage of the situation earlier. Instead, he'd been too out of it to think straight. Now it might be too late.

Continuing on his blind route, he's very surprised when he sees an auto shop up ahead. And the familiar car. What luck. He could have been wandering all over this city for three days without finding Ryan and here it hadn't taken him long at all. They'd been close to the shop. Maybe his luck was finally turning around.

It takes him just a few more minutes to make it down to the shop, steering clear of some passerbys and a vehicle with a loud muffler. Coming up on the shop, he automatically sticks close to the building. It was quiet. Most likely they were closed for the day.

Slipping around the side, he carefully peers into one of the windows. He sees two men, but not Ryan. Maybe she'd just dropped her car off. For a moment, he wonders if this was really his way out or not. Then he spies a door inside that reads "office." Now that could have some possibilities, whether his target was here or not.

Ducking back down, Alec slinks around back and around the other side. He was in luck again as he tries the door. It was open. Slithering inside, he looks around quickly. He could hear one of the men's voices in the adjoining shop, but he felt safely alone, here in the office and waiting area.

Going behind the counter, he spies a drawer with a keyhole. Bingo. He knew it would hold cash. Grabbing a letter opener, he starts to work.


Leo backs off from Axel and shrugs at Ryan with a look that said 'whatever.' Fooling with some tools a moment, he snaps his fingers. "I forgot my time card. Be back in a jif!"

Axel watches him trot over to the office, and shakes his head. Sometimes the energy was just too much. He doesn't look over to Ryan... she'd been the only one who had witnessed him having a worse bout than this with his hand, but he never brought it up. Why should the inevitable be discussed?

Leo swings open the office door, whistling to himself. Going around the counter he's not paying any attention and is suddenly in another hold. But this time it wasn't Axel, and his arm being twisted behind his back hurt. And it wasn't an arm under his throat - it was a sharp letter opener. In an instant of panic, he flails his arm sending items flying off the counter and onto the floor.

Axel's head snaps back up and he looks to the office as he hears a strange noise. "Think he ran into the wall?" he asks Ryan teasingly.


"First thing's first, hmm?" Ryder gives Thirteen's hand a gentle squeeze as they go to Jason's office to retrieve the big dog. Getting a leash, they're soon headed for the main floor. Ryder remains silent until they're outside in the parking lot.

"I don't know when Reese will know you're not dangerous," he finally answers. "Don't blame him though. The Agency has hurt many people he cares deeply for. He's just trying to protect them."

Reaching the car, he lets Trooper into the back seat. The dog seems more subdued than normal, seeming to know that he'd done something wrong, and as a result, things weren't the same anymore.

The ride seemed to be a little dimmer than normal. Ryder still tried to concentrate on keeping Thirteen comfortable, but he knew he was pushing his limits with her. She'd had quite the day as it was.

Reaching Jason's house, Ryder parks and gets out, letting Trooper out with him. He waves at Thirteen to come too. It was a quiet part of town so there weren't many people going by, and not much noise. It was just starting to get dark.

After getting to the door, Ryder finds the spare key and Trooper bounds in front of him, heading straight to the kitchen where his dog dishes still were, having been there for ages it seemed. He waits fairly impatiently as Ryder finds some food to give him.

Finishing up with the dog, Ryder ambles back to the entryway, Thirteen still in his shadow. "There's a tv there.... and a couch... and the bathroom is down the hall. Jason's bedroom's there too, but I told him I wouldn't invade his own space there." He gives a little nod. "Um..." He fidgets with his keys. "Trooper is going to be in here the whole time, and... I'll be right outside in my car. You can even see me through that window there."

Six Brother

Coming to a stop at the auto shop Ryan can tell Leo and Axel were still. They often pulled late nights, sometimes she did too but leave to Leo to always be on top of things and sometimes know when a race was before she new. He never failed to remind her about them.

Entering the shop she makes her way through the waiting room and to the back docking bays. Seeing Axel and Leo Ryan smiles and gives half a wave coming over to them.

"Don't you guy ever not work? I think the only time I have even seen eather of you has been here."

Humor danced in her eyes as she talked with the guys. She might not have many friends, and her rough and tough shell had made her test people before she actully let them in but Axel and yes even Leo were differnt.

It wasnt long after Axel was highered that Ryan came along. Street racing had been fun, she liked it and the money was good but She needed a real job to occupy her down time.

Spending alot of time around her six brothers and her father she had picked up so much about working on cars not to mention the same thick shell they had only making it grow once she started racing.

When Ryan had saw the wanted add in autoshop window she had to try. Not months and months later Ryan hadnt regreted a day of working here. Leo and Axel were like her brothers and they always got her to smile.

Racing, and being at the auto shope made her feel like she was home and that was a feeling that could not be replaced.

Thirteen looks up at Ryder her lip trembles a little thinking about Reese and how creul he had been to her. It was his job to keep people safe but still it was hard to be hurt like this.

"Why will he know I am not dangerous? What do I have to do Ryder?"

Stepping forward again Thirteen does her best to hold back her tears. being left a long for a moment she just stands holding herself.

Once Ryder comes back Thirteen looks at his hand for a moment and than takes it in hers. Instintly she felt better. Ryder was almost like a saft haven in himself. Thirteen didnt know why or understand her comfort with her she only new she liked it.

"What....whats going to happen after we take Trooper home Ryder?"

Changing mind... sort of

Alec stares after the car as Ryan drives away, and he can't help but shake his head. His annoyance was almost mixed with amusement. Almost.

Kid. He'd grown up a long time ago, but that was the second time she'd insulted him with that. What kind of arrogance did it take to tell him he had a lot to learn, when she didn't even know him? He could tell she was spunky and independent, and if she was a street racer, she was probably rough and tough and knew a lot about the hard side of town. But why would she think he didn't? What gave her the right to think he was less than she? Did he look like a naive idiot? Apparently he did.

Sighing, Alec finally moves forward in the opposite direction, his feet feeling extra heavy. He'd thought Ryan was nice... of course, he'd been drunk at the time, so he really couldn't be sure, but now he just wasn't sure at all about what she'd wanted from him. She'd said she wanted company. Didn't she have any other friends? Or did she just want someone to boss around? He didn't know. And he didn't care. Well... not much any way.

He inwardly kicks himself for caring at all. If he'd done anything stupid, that was it. He didn't normally care what people said to him. But... there was something in Ryan's eyes. He hadn't missed the enticing spark that dared him to come closer.

His feet stop on the sidewalk. Right now, he had nobody. All he had was the Agency on one side and the law on the other, and both wanted him subdued or dead. Ironic as it was, Ryan was the only one who didn't care what he'd done to get in this position. He couldn't even trust Dani now... by the time she figured out what was going on, she'd want to kill him herself.

Alec looks back over his shoulder, but Ryan's car was out of sight. He probably could have said a few things differently to her if he'd wanted a way to get out of here. But he hadn't liked being called a kid, a know-it-all, or even accused of acting macho.

He tries to remember how the sharp words had started. Had it been his remark about danger? Sure, he knew Ryan was obviously in danger a lot. Street racing wasn't exactly a safe sport. Not to mention, there were probably a few rough characters hanging around there. While not quite illegal outside of town, it was common sense to know that the cops probably just waited for their chance to pounce on something too. Most likely, Ryan risked her neck every time she got out there with those other drivers. Dangerous? Of course!

But Alec had been referring to a different kind of danger. Danger of being put behind bars for life. Danger of being murdered by either side. Danger of the death penalty. Right about now, he'd take the danger of a car race over the danger of being shot in the back. That was the only point he'd been trying to make, and if it offended Ryan then... well... so be it. She should have known better than to try and take on a total stranger on the run. What kind of person just ignored that he was wanted by the law? If she would have been smart, she would have called the cops on him - he was a murderer, a thief and more.

But she was different... very different. And whether or not Alec wanted to, he couldn't help it that his curiosity had been piqued. There was a mystery about Ryan. She might have insulted him and she might have thought he was a whole lot more naive than he really was... but spunk like that was irresistible.

Oh well. It was a short little episode that was over. Without mutual respect, they wouldn't get along anyway. Not that it mattered... Alec couldn't stick around.

His feet start moving again. But as his eyes roam the street, a police cruiser comes into view.

"Crap." Alec ducks in between two buildings, watching as the car passes. His heart pounded in his chest. Great. Until he found a place to crash, he'd be doing this all night.

His eyes automatically go back the way he'd seen Ryan go. This was a big town and he had no idea where she'd been headed or where she lived. He didn't even know her last name to look her up in the phone book.

Wait... What was he thinking?! He couldn't go asking for her help anyway. She thought he was just some cocky kid without brains.

Well... who cared? If she thought that, then she was sadly mistaken, so... what did Alec care, if he at least got somewhere to hide out until morning?

Groaning at himself, he turns around and starts jogging down the sidewalk. It was stupid to think he could find her now but it was the only thing he had to look for. As silly as it was, it was all he had at the moment.


Ryder looks down into Thirteen's eyes, his own flooding with compassion. What was he supposed to say? She was still in custody of the Elite, and she was still considered a threat by those in charge. What was he supposed to do with her? There was no where else, unless it was an interrogation room or a holding cell, and neither of those would do for obvious reasons.

Reaching out, he brushes Thirteen's cheek with the back of his hand. "It's not up to me," he responds gently. "Reese isn't trying to be mean, he's just doing what he thinks is best and..."

Seeing her eyes, his heart breaks. He couldn't just tell her she was on her own again. They'd come so far, and today had been a disaster. She'd done well this afternoon and evening, but this morning's episode had set them back so very far. And without Trooper, it just made things worse.

Swallowing hard, his hand drops to reach in his pocket and pull out his phone. "Sit tight."

Walking just a few feet away, it only takes him a few minutes on the phone before he returns to Thirteen's side. "Come on." He holds out his hand once again so she could feel secure. "We're gonna take Trooper home and get him settled at his own house."

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."