Ready?

Ryder leans over the back of the couch beside Thirteen, cocking his head so he can see her face. "Yeah... if you want it to be. It's the only thing I can think of, unless you want to go back to the spare room at TJY. Pretty soon Laura will be gone and you'll get a room all yours too. What do you think about that?"


Gage turns to look over his shoulder as Hal pushes him along towards the exit. His eyes catch Sapphire's for a moment until he has to look where he's going.

Getting outside, he breathes in the cool evening air. The rain had stopped and the air was damp. But it felt oh-so good. Closing his eyes, he leans back against the building, ignoring the fact that his hands were cuffed and Hal was right there.

Being outside of the building had never felt so relieving before. With hardly any contact with anyone at all, he had feared losing his mind. At least he'd started to make one friend... kind of. Losing hope that anyone from the Agency would come and rescue him, a small light had started to glimmer. Whenever Sapphire had been allowed to bring him his meals, or if she'd been staying late, he at least had someone other than Hal or Reese talk to him. He never said much in return... he mostly just listened. She laughed and he didn't. But he liked the way she smiled and the way she didn't seem to think badly of him. A few chats were all they had, but it was more than he had with anyone else at this point. He wondered if he would get to continue seeing Sapphire, if they moved him somewhere else.

"Ready?"

Gage opens his eyes back up to look at Hal, giving a sigh. No, he wasn't. He wanted to stay out here all night if just to be outside the building. His tired gaze proved it, but he nods anyway. Beggars couldn't be choosers.

Walking back inside, it was back down through the line of cubicles. This time he dares to look around a little more, though his head was low, trying to avoid much attention. He knew that around here, he was an outcast. He was the enemy.

Nearing the corner, a woman comes out of nowhere. Her arms were full of papers. No one has time to stop, and the three-person collision sends papers all over the floor.

Susanne gives a little cry as she stumbles backward, all of her files going every which-way. Hal trips and lands against a cubicle, trying not to hit Susanne. Gage tries not to fall, but his foot slides on a piece of paper over the tiled floor. With his hands cuffed behind his back, he has no way to keep his balance or to catch himself.

Going down hard, he falls backward, his head taking the brunt of it. Wincing, he feels a wave of pain and dizziness roll through his skull. He blinks and realizes that he's partway into Sapphire's cubicle, disturbing her as well, and his face reddens slightly, still remaining silent.


Jason looks over to Katie in the passenger seat of his pickup and gives her a smile before they pull out of the hospital parking lot. "Alright, Hero, you ready to get out of here?" It was starting to get dark, but he'd left it up to her if she felt up to going somewhere to grab something to eat first, or if she just wanted to head home.

New Face

Giving a small smile Hope walks back to her desk and sits down.

"You to, I'll be waiting."

Hanging up the phone Hope holds it in her hands for a long moment before putting it back down with a small sigh.

Sifting through her paperwork she stops on a manila envilope that caught her eye as she raised her eyebrow. Strange her was getting something from the state. She'd reading in a few seconds after she looked at the rest of the mail.

Looking at the couch and than Ryder Thirteen almost felt like crying. After Brown had said she deserved her chance she didn't expect to let her stay at his place on the couch.

Walking over she just looks at the couch and than at Ryder before sitting down on it. Never had she felt something so soft and comfortable.

Turning and looking up at Ryder Thirteen gives a smile.

"This is really going to be...my my home?"

Hearing the door open Sapphire looks up from her paper work and see Gage. Giving a small soft smile as Gage pass by Sapphire ofers a small nod knowing she would probley see him again, and couldnt wait.

Time

Silence on the line. Scott just looks at the ceiling, so wishing that things were different. His hand stops on Domino's head as he spots movement in the doorway. It was Gunner, eating a sandwich.

Gunner points to his watch. "Time's up. They'll track it."

Scott sighs as he walks away. "I gotta go," he mentions softly. "Thanks for calling, Hope... it was good to hear from you."

Rolling out of bed, he ambles to the window to look out. "I'll see you soon." He wasn't at all confident, but he had to say it... he had to keep praying he would be released soon. "Take care of yourself."


Ryder busies himself with a couple blankets and pillows, setting up the couch. Finished, he gestures Thirteen towards it. "You're not going back to TJY," he states flatly. 'They'll have to come and drag me out before that so... make yourself at home. This is your home now too."


Reese sits in his office, sifting through papers until he finally finds the one he's looking for. He'd written it up about two weeks ago, and had just been sitting on it. But it was time he did something about it. He needed to talk with Hope Garrison. In the meantime...

He picks up his phone. "Yeah, Hal? Go ahead with Gage, alright? Yeah. Just keep him close."


Gage lifts his head from his spot on the floor. He had no idea what day of the week it was, or even the date. Every day just ran together into one big muddled mess. But he didn't think it was mealtime.

Hal takes some cuffs off his belt. "Come on, Kid. Let's get you some fresh air."

"Fresh... air?"

"Yeah." Hal makes him stand up, and puts his cuffs on before taking him from the room. "You know... outside."

Gage hadn't been outside in almost two months. He hadn't even been near a window. "Wh... why?"

"Because... it's time."

Gage shuffles in front of Hal, looking around the hall nervously. Coming out on the main floor, his eyes are wide and nervous. There were a lot of people out here. The one desk closest holds a girl he's never seen before. The nameplate said Sapphire. His eyes catch hers for a moment before he's prompted towards the door.

Glance

Hope listens to Scott enjoying being able to hear his voice again that had a tiny bit of glimmer in it. Even when he became more serous there was still something in his voice that Hope could pick up on.

"I am sure Carson is doing his best and it will be over soon. He's good, and he knows where to look. It wont be long before he finds out your innocent I just know it."

Continuing to look out the window Hope lets out a small sigh. She wasn't Scott councler anymore but she was his friend and liked listing to him, and as a friend she liked to still offer help.

"Always keep a little Hope, a little faith. God will never leave you high and dry..."

Hope pauses for a moment before speaking again.

"..nether will I. No matter what I will be here for you."

Leaning her head aganst the glass for a moment Hope hears a knock at the door. Turning to look she saw her secritary holding the mail. Motioning for her to put it on the desk Hope turned back to the window.

"I miss you too very much Scott."

And she did. He sounded ok, everyone said he was doing ok but to see it with her own eyes would be a whole nother thing. Maybe on the way home from work she would get "lost" and see if maybe just maybe she could catch a glance.

Just want

Scott lifts his eyebrows at the mention of the pictures. "Naw... I don't mind. I think I've got some better ones here in the last month or so though, so I'll have to get you some new ones. I've got one of a rose that turned out really well."

Glancing down at Domino, he scratches her head. "Domino is doing fine, but she's bored out of her mind. All she wants in a romp in the park, but Gunner doesn't do dogs and I can't go anywhere so... she's stuck keeping me company here."

His eyes roam his room, then glance towards the sunlit window. "I wish I could go to the park too... it's been... lonely." His voice has returned to a more melancholy state, proving that though he was thrilled to be talking to Hope, there was still a serious matter here that was wearing on him.

"I just want this whole thing to be over... I just want to be... free again. But Carson's not finding anything and at this point... I'm running out of hope. I'd almost rather be told I'm going to prison, than to keep living in limbo like this."

Giving a sigh, he just lets silence rule for several moments, not minding the pause. "I miss you."

Little Ham

Hope cant help but laugh at Scott's comment happen to hear the humor in his voice and know just form the sound something had changed and maybe even been overcome.

"I guess that would be different huh? I don't like how I sound. Your voice it much more appealing than mine you know!"

Hope leans back in her chair and just looks up at the cealing for a long moment as the silence is turd on both ends. Finally talking again she humors Scott.

"Oh, thinks are going ok here. Business is kind of slow at the moment but I have a few regulers I have been seeing. I even hung a few of your pictures up in my office. One I like them and two I guess I wanted to have them so they could give other hope that they two could make it out of the darkness. I hope you dont mind to much. If you do I can take them down."

Giving another smile Hope stands and goes over to her windows to look out. It was nice out, the sun was shinning and she didnt have much to do. She wondered if Gunner would let her see Scott too.

"How is Domino doing? I miss the little ham."

Other way

Scott's eyes flash as he realizes just who is on the other end. Then a smile forms.

His cheeks grow just a little warm and he rolls over on his back to stare up at the ceiling. A light chuckle escapes.

"I'm doing... okay." He pauses, rerouting the start of their conversation. "What I want to know is what took you so long to try and call me."

Teasing, his smile could be heard in his voice. "How come I have to do the talking, hmm? Can we try to do it the other way around once?"

How sweet

Listing intently to Brown, Thirteen didnt feel as nervous about him anymore. His eyes were bright, and he seemed very calm and nice.

Thirteen's own eyes light up as she hears Brown talk about getting her charges dropped, and not having to stay at TJY anymore. For some reason she didnt think it would be quite this easy.

Standing when Ryder does Thirteen holds her hand out to Brown for a handshake a smile had formed on her lips as she gives a little sniff her hold still hanging on.

"Thank you so much Sir."

Following Ryder outside Thirteen slips her hand into his again as she smiled at him. His compliment making her feel good.

"So did you, thank you Ryder for everything."

Getting into the truck once again Thirteen couldnt help but feel a little excited now. Things would be differnt, Ryder said so. She would be normal now like she always wanted to be.

"So now what?"

Holding Dani's number in his hand Dalton felt a little strange for a moment. He almost felt like a little kid with a crush. Not letting the feeling hang around for to long Dalton looks up at Dani and lets the courners of his mouth turn up in a smile.

"I will call you, that you can bet on."

Reaching out Dalton gentily runs a hand down the side of Dani's face letting it linger for a moment before retreating.

"I am happy I could make you smile today. For once I returned the favor."

Shocked for a moment at Gunner's outburst Hope is taken back and for a second wondered if it was a good idea calling at all.

Listing to the muffled sound in the background Hope was about to hang up thinking maybe Gunner was going to be disconnected from him, but as she is about to hang up the phone a new voice is hurd.

How sweet it sounded to hear Scott's voice and how it made her heart jump. She wasnt ashamed to addmit she had missed the sound of it.

"I had so much I wanted to say to you, but now that your on the other line I think I would just rather listen to your sweet voice talk. Oh how I missed it. How are you sweetheart?"

Thought Scott couldnt see her Hope was smiling as her cheeks started to hurt but the pain when unoticed.

Different voice

Brown listens to Thirteen and cocks his head thoughtfully while he listens. When she's finished, the office grows quiet until Brown finally leans forward, resting his elbows on his desk. "Well, young lady... I don't like anybody getting caught in the system. And... from what I can tell, you've supplied us with all the information you can. As far as I know, there is no proof of intentional illegal activity so... what I can do is put in a special request for you that the charges be dropped and the file closed so that you will be free to live your life."

Ryder can't help that his eyes widen slightly. Though he'd acted confidently, he hadn't really thought that Brown would actually help in this capacity. "How long will that take?"

"Depends on if I can get the request to go through. But... since things are so busy, I wouldn't be surprised if it didn't take long just because it's not a priority."

"That's great. Um... thank you. Is there anything else we can do?"

"Well what do you plan to do with the little lady in the meantime?"

Ryder glances to Thirteen, then back to Brown. "I have a few things in mind. There's an empty couch I know of at the moment, and pretty soon an empty bed too. I want to give Thirteen a fighting chance."

Brown's gentle smile returns and he nods. "I've got three daughters. I understand. I'll be in touch."

Ryder takes his cue to rise, and lets Thirteen stand with him. "Thank you..."

"Don't thank me yet. Just take care of her."

"Oh... one more thing?" Ryder turns back around. "Do you think you could tell Reese it's alright to have Thirteen in my care?"

"I think I can do that." Brown chuckles. "I admire your determination. Hang in there."

Once Ryder and Thirteen are outside again by the car, he slips his arm around her shoulders to give her a little squeeze. "You did good."


Dani leaves the restaurant with a smile on her face and a hand on Dalton's arm. He was such a gentleman. She'd known he was nice, but she hadn't known he was THIS nice. It made her smile, just thinking of him being so soft and careful with her, when he was so big.

The ride back to the apartment seems too quick, and when they're parked, Dani waits a moment before getting out. She turns to look at Dalton, quiet for several seconds. "Thank you... I needed that boost today and... I'll look forward to that run in the park."

She slips him a piece of paper with her cell phone number on it. "Just let me know when."


Hearing Hope's voice on the other end of the line, Gunner gives a low growl of frustration. "You do realize that this whole thing is stupid, don't you?" He gets up from the couch, walking across the room as he talks. "I'm getting paid to be a babysitter," he grumbles. "Just quit jumping through the Elite hoops... you of all people could get away with more than this."

There's a long pause with muffled background noise and bumps and bangs. One might think they'd been disconnected. But finally a voice comes back. But it's not Gunner this time.

Scott quirks an eyebrow, having no idea why Gunner had handed him his cell phone. He rolls over to prop himself on his elbow while on his bed, his other hand stroking Domino's head.

"Hello?"

Again

Knowing something still wasn't up to par with Ryder but it was a little better. Sitting quietly in the truck Thirteen watches as the scenery go by.

Finally getting to the station Thirteen just looks out the window at the building for a long moment. Was coming really a good idea? Getting out of the car Thirteen standing next to Ryder and slips her hand into his slowly closing her fingers around his. The wormth from his own making her feel comfortable and safe.

Following close to Ryder Thirteen keeps her eyes down as they move through the station not looking at anyone.

Getting to Brown's office Thirteen looks up and gives a small friendly smile before looking down again and standing with Ryder. Listing to his words again she felt a little strange standing there and having someone talk about her.

Finally as Brown turns his own attachen to her and asks the question Thirteen trys to raise her head as high as she cant, mimicking Ryder's own confidence. she clears her throat and talks quiet but with her own confidence.

"Ryder has helped me alot, and has taken good care of me."

Looking to Ryder Thirteen smiles a little before looking back to Brown.

"He's the best friend I ever had and He has showed me so much. I dont like being at TJY and staying in a room all the time. I promise I wont make trouble if you let me out of there."

Dalton gives a small smile and a nod as the waitress brings over the check for the table. Reaching out to take it he had already planed on picking up the tab.

"Well, our next date will have to be a run in the park requested by you. I think I like the sound of that."

Giving a smile Dalton stands and puts his arm out for Dani once again offering to walk with her out to the car.

Giving her thanks to Susanne Hope hangs up the phone and than dials Gunner's phone. Letting it ring for a little while Hope wondered if he would even answer the strange number. Finally hearing Gunner's voice Hope sits up.

"Hello Gunner, My name is Hope Garrison and Well, I wanted to say thinking you. I was very happy to get Scott'd letters. I've really missed seeing him."

Quit for a moment Hope is quiet, but than continues really wanting to know from someone else how Scott was.

"How...How is Scott doing?"

Good reason

Ryder grabs his wallet to put in his back pocket and heads for the door, a little surprised but fine with Thirteen coming along to the police station.

Stopping at the door, he turns to look at her for a moment, cocking his head. "Don't worry... we'll find a place for you. I won't leave you hanging." He nods to the open door for Thirteen to exit before he locks up the house.

Driving down to the station, Ryder is pretty quiet. With a lot on his mind, he did his best not to act differently around Thirteen, but he knew that she could sense it. She wasn't stupid.

Once they're at the station, Ryder takes Thirteen's hand and walks inside, keeping her close as it was apparently a busy day. Approaching the counter, he addresses a woman office. "Is Chief Brown in today?"

"He just got back," she informs. "He's got a meeting in fifteen minutes, but you might be able to catch him in his office."

"Great. Thanks." Heading in the right direction, Ryder keeps Thirteen's hand in his grip until they've been invited into the warm office.

"Ah, Ryder, right?" Brown extends his hand.

"That's right. G'day."

"And who is this?" Brown looks to Thirteen, seeming to catch the shyness behind her bright eyes. His smile is gentle.

"This is Thirteen," Ryder introduces.

"Ah yes. The ward from TJY."

"Yes. That's... actually what I wanted to talk to you about."

Brown invites both to sit down and he himself sits on the other side of his desk. "I know the paperwork has been hung up for a while... this is an odd case. Reese and I were just discussing it the other day, but the judges have been busy with other priorities so no decisions have been made yet."

"As it's been with Scott," Ryder comments, a bit pointedly. "Look... we just need something else to happen here. Thirteen can't keep staying at TJY. She's been locked in a room for crying out loud. I took her to stay in a house for one night and I got raked over the coals for it. She's learning and growing and if we're going to have a success at reintroducing her to society, then we have to do just that... reintroduce her, not keep her locked up like an animal." He didn't particularly care for talking about Thirteen when she was right there, but he didn't have much of a choice.

Brown sits back, his eyes narrowing a little as he thinks. Pursing his lips, he looks to Thirteen. "I see your friend here is trying hard to do what's best for you. What do you have to say about all of this?"


Another little chuckle bubbles to the surface as Dani looks across at Dalton. Her cheeks were warm, her eyes glistening. "I guess first dates are always kind of awkward. But... I'm having a good time too. I, um...." She looks down, giving a bit of a laugh at herself. "I guess I kind of hoped you would ask me one of the days."

Glancing back up, she takes a sip of her water. "Walking sounds nice too... Though we could try the running sometime. I wouldn't mind trying to keep up. At least if I couldn't, there would be a good reason."


Susanne looks over her shoulder to make sure Reese's office is closed. "Hi, Hope. Um... yes.... I could give you Gunner's number." A smile is on her lips, her voice kept quiet. "Just don't tell anyone I gave it to you."

After giving Hope the number, Susanne hangs up, her smile still present. She knew she wasn't supposed to give that out, but after all, Hope had been Scott's councilor... surely she had special priviledges... and no one had specified not to give HER the number.

Gunner is lazing on the couch in front of the television when his phone goes off. Checking the number, he furrows his brow, tempted not to answer. But for some reason he did. "Yeah, hello?"

Where?

Seeing Henry enter the room Thirteen puts her hand down slowly to let the cat sniff her hand.

"Hi Henry your pretty kitty."

Feeling Henry jump up on the couch after Ryder had put her down she pets his few. How soft he felt under his finger tips.

Bringing her attachen to Ryder again Thirteen just thinks about what he said trying to process everything in her own mind.

For a moment Thirteen thinks. If she didnt stay at TJY anymore and she couldn't stay with Ryder where would she go.

"Hmmm...Ryder? If I don't stay at TJY and I cant stay with you where will I go?"

Moving from the couch Thirteen stands and takes the blanket she was using and folds it draping it back over the back before taking her cup and putting it into the sink before coming back into the livingroom where Ryder was.

"I'll come with you. Maybe....if your friend at the station see me he will see I am no threat and if he has any questions I can answer them. I'm not scaired, you will be there with me."

Smiling from across the table one who new Dalton at all would know it was very rare to see the light that was now on his face.

Not to mention Dalton himself was not use to having someone who was so interested in him and not concerned with his looks. It was strange trying to find something to talk about other than work.

"Well I'd tell you to come running with me and I would stop for breathers with you but...I don't think you could keep up. My legs are pretty long."

Dalton cant help the chuckle that escapes his lips as he takes a bite of his food. It had been a long time since he has Chinese and it tasted like heaven.

"..I like walks though."

Looking down at his plate and than back up at Dani Dalton look was more on a serious side now, but the smile still twinkled in his eye.

"Thanks Dani for coming to lunch with me. I'm having a nice time even if we feel a little awkward."


Opening her door for the daily mail Hope hears the ploop of something outside the door. Looking down and seeing the envilope a smile comes to her lips....

...Finishing the last letter Hope cant help but whipe a tear from her eye but not one of sadness but one of happyness and an honnor like no other.

Scott was well and that made Hope happy to know. Sitting in her chair she wondered. Gunner, yes he was the one with Scott could it have been him who droped the letters?

Grabbing the phone Hope waits for someone to answer hoping it would be the one she wanted. Hearing Susanne's voice Hope can only thank the lord for her answer prayers.

"Hi Susanne, its Hope Garrison. I was wondering if you could give me Gunner's number so I could see how Scott was doing!"

Introduction

Ryder sighs again and stands up to pace while he thinks. He knew by the look on Thirteen's face that she'd had another small setback - and this one was his fault. He had to fix this... he had to make all of this right.

"I'm gonna go over Reese's head," he states decidedly. "You're stuck in the system, and I'm tired of it. I don't care if I lose my job. You deserve better." He kept saying that... but he still believed it. Living at TJY was no place for anybody, let alone someone like Thirteen who had no mal-intent whatsoever. Ryder couldn't sense a mean bone in her body. She was lost, confused, and needed a bit more TLC, just enough to give her a boost so she could start being more independent. Maybe Ryder had gone a little too far this morning, but it was over and wouldn't happen again. He was growing more and more attached to Thirteen... he couldn't deny that... and he knew it was dangerous. But he wasn't going to shove her off onto someone else.

"I'm going to see to it that you don't have to stay at TJY any longer. You've given us all the information you can and there's nothing left. You don't deserve jail and they know that - otherwise you'd be there already."

Henry wanders into the living room, having been hiding out in Laura's room. He sniffs the air and rubs up against Ryder's legs, looking over to the couch uneasily. A little meow signals that he wonders what's going on.

Ryder bends down to pick him up, stroking the soft fur. "Henry, this is Thirteen." Shaking his head, he puts the cat back down and turns his attention back to Thirteen. "I'm going down to the police station. You can stay here alone or come with me. No one knows yet that I've found you so we shouln't have anybody from TJY clammoring to get you back."

Action

Thirteen try's her best to understand what Ryder was saying, but bits and peaces got missed, as she suddenly got the feeling inside her as if something was breaking. It was a strange feeling and she didn't like it.

Ryder has said he was a friend but he also called her a job. That alone stung even though Thirteen new he wasn't trying to hurt her.

"But I....like having you hang around and...I..."

Letting out a frustrated sigh Thirteen just sips her tea again. She tryed to regain back the little confidence in herself she had back but it was hard. She new though she had to or they would keep her locked away even longer.

Maybe changing the subject would help.

"So whats your next plan of action?"

Apologize

Ryder gives a little sigh, his shoulders dropping. "You didn't do anything wrong, okay? Nothing was your fault."

He pats her leg, knowing he just needed to say what was necessary. "I... know this might be hard for you to understand... but try, okay? It's okay that I'm your friend... I want to be your friend, and I enjoy looking out for you. But you're also my job and... well..." How was he supposed to say it? "...It was... wrong of me... to get...closer than that."

Finding her hand, he gives it a squeeze, then offers her a crooked grin. "You're just too pretty for a bloke to hang around," he teases. He cocks his head, studying her for a moment. "I'm sorry I was rough on you earlier. I didn't mean to upset you. I just don't know how to apologize enough for what's been happening. You deserve better. And I have one more course of action I can try."

Dont

Feeling Ryder closer to her Thirteen moves down farther into the blanket bring the warm cloth around her chilled skin.

Taking the drink from Ryder Thirteen sips it. It was different from what she drank most of the time but she liked it and it made her feel good inside. This time she was in a different how but she liked it.

Looking over the blanket at Ryder Thirteen is quiet for a moment. Giving a little shiver and a sneeze her voice is quiet.

"Something changed with you from this morning, when I saw you this afternoon. I thought I did something wrong, and I didnt want to stay there anymore. I was tired of being there. I just....I thought you were angry with me."

Thirteen runs her finger along the rim of her cup not to sure how to tell Ryder how she felt. She was getting over her fear of being outside, loud noises, and being around people but she was still having problems conveying how she felt into words.

"I just...I...spent so long being held by the Agency than you came along Ryder and showed me so much. and now I am doing good and you guys still want to keep me locked away in a room."

Thirteen's cheeks get a little more red as she continues to talk. The next topic she didn't even know how to describe it but she would try her best.

"And....I guess I just though maybe I had done something wrong since you seemed so distant this afternoon. I just don't want to be forced to stay somewhere anymore alone."

tea

Hearing Thirteen's words and seeing the state she was in made Ryder's heart feel as though it were being ripped in two.

Starting to say something to Thirteen, Ryder is cut off as she falls into him. Reflexes cause him to catch her, wrapping his arms around her and drawing her nearer to him. Putting his face down over hers, he checks her breathing, seeing that she was indeed sick.

"Thirteen, listen to me," he prompts gently but firmly. "You're going to be okay. Just stay with me here, alright? Stay with me."

Rocking back on his heels, Ryder takes off his rain coat and wraps it around Thirteen. Taking her back in his arms he stands up, cradling her as he walks. Trooper doesn't need any guidance as he obediently follows. It's a two-block walk to where the car was parked...

...The house is quiet. Ryder comes from the kitchen, returning to the living room with the hot cup of tea. He'd given Thirteen some dry clothes and had done his best to get her warm, settling her on the couch with a pillow and blanket.

Trooper was still lying on the kitchen floor, slowly drying as well.

Ryder eases down on the couch right next to Thirteen, tucking the blanket in closer around her and offering her the warm drink. Sighing, he studies her face and moves a wisp of wet hair from her cheek. So far, words hadn't been necessary.

"Why did you do it, Thirteen?" he asks quietly. "I don't understand. Why did you run away?"

Sick

Looking up at Ryder Thirteen was happen to see him, but on the other hand was not. Now that he found her he would take her back.

"Please...don't take me back there. I'm not an animal that can be caged anymore. You taught me that."

Giving another sneeze Thirteen felt so weak. It was plan to see she was sick. After everything she had been through after being at the Agency so long her body was not use to the stress, and the atmosphere of being outside. Now the rain added on top just pushed her over, and the cold had set in.

Trying her best to look up at Ryder again Thirteen trys to smile a little but she felt so cold. Sneezing again and than another cough she takes Ryder's hand in her own as she shakes, from the cold, and from fear.

"I'm sorry I ran away."

Before she can say more Thirteen fall forward from the swing not able to hold herself up anymore as she lands in Ryder's arms.

Swing

Dani listens intently, surprised but not finding Dalton's hobby silly in the least. "I'd like to see it sometime," she agrees honestly.

Before she can answer his question, the waitress comes with their food, so it's several minutes before the conversation can start again.

"I... don't have much to do outside of work," she finally admits. "I mean... I have church and that's nice. But then I work at the store and at Mom and Pop's too, so... yeah. I like to take walks... athletic activities but... I don't have many friends. Carson keeps asking me to go running with him but he gets up so early." She giggles. "I just can't get up as early as he does, and he doesn't like stopping when I need a breather."


Trooper whines and walks around Ryder's legs, looking for shelter from the pouring rain. But Ryder's rain jacket is only so big.

"Naw, come on, mate," Ryder prompts as they continue to walk. "We gotta find her."

He looks around, but visibility isn't good through the rain. Conditions were terrible for a search, and he was only going around in circles. She couldn't have gone far on foot... and she didn't have any money for a bus or taxi. She couldn't be far... she couldn't. But what if the Agency had found her? What if they had gotten to her first?

"Thirteen!" Ryder's shout echoes down the dead-end street. Nothing.

Thunder shook the ground and lightning spidered across the sky. This was no kind of weather to be out here on foot. But Ryder didn't have any other choice. Getting others to help him look would do no good. It just didn't matter. This was his doing. This was all his fault.

"Thirteen!"

Another hour. Ryder's legs felt like lead weights. The storm had stalled overhead, covering the land in a steady downpour. A cold front was moving through, bringing a chilly wind. Tomorrow it would be hot and sticky again, but for right now, Ryder could feel the cold through his drenched body.

The park. Trooper's head hung as he trudged beside Ryder, but suddenly his ears perk and he gives a short woof.

Ryder looks around, squinting through the rain. "What is it?"

Trooper whines and pulls on the leash.

Ryder moves forward, finally spotting the bundle huddled on one of the swings. "Oh... Thirteen..."

Sprinting through the rain, Ryder slipps to a halt at he swing, bending to his knees despite the mud. "Thirteen?" He looks up at her, reaching up to put a hand to his face. "Are you okay?"

Pitter Patter

Sitting across from Dani Dalton felt nervous but content. It was nice having someone to talk with again.

"Well I know it sounds silly, but I have a butterfly and moth collection. Its just something I like to do. Its hard sometimes with my fingers being so big, but I do ok. It takes a lot of pashents but its almost soothing."

Looking down at his hands for a moment Dalton hopped Dani wouldn't laugh. It was a strange hobbies but it was something he liked. It had almost been over a year now that he had been working on them. Delicately preserving them, pinning them to frames.

Maybe that's where he had learned how to be so delicit and soft with his touch despite his size.

"Maybe sometime I can show you them. They really are pretty. What do you like to do in your free time?"

Feeling the raindrops his her face Thirteen looks up as it continues to rain hitting her in the face. Bring her hand to the drop on her face Thirteen just whipes it away as it mixes with her own tears.

She wasnt sure why she was so sad about this, but maybe depression had set in jus thinking about being locked up again.

As the rain starts to pound harder Thirteen let out a sneeze. The sound of the pitter patter rain drownding out almost everything except her own thoughts.

Rain

Dani smiles as she takes Dalton's arm and walks with him up and out of TJY. "Um, I don't know... I like most any kind of food... maybe we can go for Chinese?"

It isn't long before the two are seated in a quiet corner of the restaurant, waiting for their food. Dani tried to make it light, but she did feel a little awkward. It had been quite a while since a man had asked her out, and she hardly knew Dalton. But there was something about him that she trusted. Some people might be scared of him, just because of his size alone. But... Dani wasn't.

"So, um... I don't know much about you... tell me what keeps you occupied when you're away from work?"


Ryder looks around the main floor, barely hearing Sapphire. "No... no. Um... no, thanks. Just let me know if you see her, okay?"

Heading away, he goes straight for the control room. "Hal? Hal?" The room was empty. Giving a little growl, Ryder goes in anyway and checks one of the monitors, typing and clicking until he got what he wanted. Security camera five near the door. He rewinds then fast forwards. His heart drops as he sees what he hoped he wouldn't. He checks the time. It had been hours. "No... no, no, no, no!"

Getting up, Ryder sprints to Reese's office without knocking. "She's gone."

"What on earth are you talking about?!"

"Thirteen. She's gone. She left."

Reese is on his feet. "What do you mean she left? How?"

"I don't know. She was there, she was gone and I found the footage. She left hours ago."

"I warned you." Reese points a finger at Ryder. "I warned you to lock the door and you wouldn't do it. And this is what happens."

"Look, if-"

"Find her, Ryder," Reese orders. "Now! Take someone with you and go!"

Ryder doesn't need to be told twice. He's out the door and across the floor before anyone else even notices. Getting in his car, he looks up at the sky, frowning at the gray clouds. Pushing the pedal to the floor, he burns rubber, heading down the street.

Twenty minutes later, he's back on that side of town, but he's on foot, with Trooper by his side. A raindrop hits his face. "Thirteen!" He looks around the street, glancing into alleyways and parking lots. "Thirteen!" He knew she hadn't gone to the Agency, he just knew it. "Thirteen!"

The rain starts in earnest, and Ryder pulls the hood of his raincoat over his head. Trooper gives a little woof of complaint, but then strains at the leash. Ryder lets him and follows, hoping the dog was looking for Thirteen and not just a dry place to sit.

My lady

Sitting on the swing with her back to the road Thirteen gently rocks herself back and forth. The noises around her made her jump, and she felt scared but she had no where else to go. Tear still rolled down her cheeks as she sat and thought.

Feeling her tummy rumble Thirteen can guess its lunch time now. She couldn't help but wonder if Ryder had checked and saw if she was gone now or not.

She new she should go back, but she didn't want to be inside and she didn't want to be treated like a no one anymore. She had spend 22 years of her life locked away like a caged animal. Now Ryder had started to show her life outside that, and now they wanted to take it away from her again and keep her locked up again. It wasn't fair, and Ryder taught her it wasnt right eather.

Thnder rumbled in the distance as a storm started to roll in as the sky started to grow darker.

Looking up as Dani enter again Dalton took note to her puffy eyes, and the redness but didnt draw attachen to them. She still looked so pretty.

Standing from his desk and turning the moniter off, Dalton gives a small smile.

"Well I am happy they wont be doing anything to you. I'd hate to be left hanging for lunch."

Placing his sun glasses on and than walking over to Dani he holds his arm out for her to take a hold gentily.

"Now my lady, where would you like to go to relax and just have a nice time?"

Dalton helps escort Dani out of TJY not minding who was looking, or whispering.

Looking up from her desk as Ryder came to a skidding halt Sapphire thinks for a long moment.

"I was wrapped up in my work so I didnt see anyone but about three hours ago I thought I saw someone go up on the elevator. I am not sure if it was Thirteen or now."

Sapphire shows a look of sarrow on her face as she looks up at Ryder.

"Sorry I dont know more. Did you need help with getting her?"

Empty

Dani can't help her smile and she looks down, now just a little embarrassed. "Um... okay. I'll go talk to Reese and... I'll come back then."

Looking up at Dalton one more time, her eyes are dry now. For some reason, she wasn't quite as worried.

The morning seems to go by so slowly, but only because unwanted work is involved. It really doesn't take all that long for Dani to talk to Reese and for Ryder to busy himself with unimportant tasks.


Dani comes slowly down the hall again, her eyes red and puffy from more tears that she had cried. But it was over now.

She lightly taps on Dalton's open office door and steps inside just a little hesitantly. She had tried to look a little better but it wouldn't do much good. It would be obvious to anyone that she'd been crying, and her hair was a mess and she didn't have any makeup on.

"I... they're not going to do anything to me," she mentions quietly. "I mean... for helping Alec. Reese said since I didn't have mal-intent that it would be okay but... I guess I learned my lesson."

Swallowing, she looks back up at Dalton and bites her lip. "If... you still want to go to lunch? I should get to Mom and Pop's afterward... no use in making Carson any more mad at me than he is already. But I really just want to sit and relax somewhere first and i guess I am kind of hungry."


Ryder looks at the clock and sighs. He'd stayed away from the spare room for the last few hours, even though he hadn't wanted to. It felt like tough love, but it didn't feel right since it wasn't intentional.

Stopping by the break room, he checks to see that there are some sandwiches and pop still there. He would bring Thirteen in here to eat lunch with him at least.

Ambling to the spare room, he taps on the door. "Thirteen?" No response. Frowning, he hopes she wasn't still upset with him. After another try, he finally just opens the door. To his surprise, the room is empty. "Thirteen?"

A strange feeling settled over Ryder as he backs out of the room and looks down the hall. He tries the bathroom, but finds it empty. He checks the empty offices, goes downstairs and even checks on Alec. But no matter where he goes, Thirteen is no where to be found. Surely she wouldn't have gone outside. She was still so scared But... where else...

His walk turns into a run. Skidding by Sapphire's cubicle, he stops. "You seen Thirteen anywhere?"

Leave

Being left there alone now Thirteen was scared and confused. Though Ryder looked sorry and said his hands were tied, why was there a change now? Thirteen still couldnt help but think she did something wrong.

Just standing in the middle of the room Thirteen could feel the hot tears that rolled down her cheek. Why was she so upset?

No, she didn't want to be here in this room. Outside, she didn't mind it there now, and it was obvious she wasn't wanted here anymore or thats how it felt.

Grabbing what little she had Thirteen opens the door and pokes her head out looking around. Not seeing anyone she slowly and quietly slips out of TJY aiming for the door and leaving through the elevator. Her destination the closes park.

A more assured smile spreads on Dalton's face and he cant help but laugh himself just a little. He new he made an idiot of himself but he was happy it had not scaired Dani away.

"Ok, when you are done just come back to the office and I'll take you to lunch."

Dalton's large hand makes its way down Dani's face and to her arm. Who ever though such a large man could be so soft and gentil.

"I'll take you anywhere you want to go, it dosnt matter."

A small light shone in Dalton's eye though he was also so scaired. He'd never really asked a girl on a date before. But he was sure it would be ok.

If

Thirteen's voice and tears cut Ryder to the quick. He knew that even though he wasn't meaning to, that Thirteen was taking his actions like a cold shoulder. He hadn't wanted it this way. But Reese had been firm, and that, mixed with a bit of guilt, resulted in this necessary decision.

"I'm sorry..." His voice softens. Reaching out, he pulls Thirteen a little closer, tucking her hair behind her ear. "I just... it has to be this way. Please try to understand... for me? I... I'm sorry."

His eyes search hers, trying to convey what was going on. How could he tell her that this was out of his hands? How could he tell her that he was sorry for earlier... that Reese was right - he shouldn't have taken her to Jason's? How could he tell her that he knew he shouldn't have kissed her? He was on duty... this was his job. He needed to respect the rules... not only for his job's sake, but for her sake as well. It wasn't right that he was the only thing in her life... she needed more.

"I'm sorry," he repeats again. "I'll be in my cubicle and I'll see you for lunch."


Dani's stomach gives a little lurch as Dalton's hand runs down her face. She swallows hard and can feel the heat replacing the tears.

Hearing what he has to say, she blinks and straightens just a little, confused for a moment. "I..." Letting him finish, her eyebrows rise. Suddenly she wasn't worried about the trouble she was in, but rather she wanted to understand just what Dalton was saying.

Before she can stop it, a little giggle breaks through. She didn't mean to make fun of him in the least. But hearing him fumbling around his words hit her as cute and even charming in a way that she couldn't help the giggle.

"Yes." The reply was out before she could think. "If... if I'm not in to much trouble here."

Gutter Flower

Looking up at Ryder now in the room she hated again her lip trembled just a little. She could feel the change with him now and she wasn't sure why. Only hours ago she had gotten a completely different feeling from him and now it almost seemed cold.

"But Ryder, I...I don't want to stay here. I promise I wont make trouble and I will be super quiet."

Thirteen trys to hold her little tears back. She was trying she really was, had she dont something wrong?

"I've been good Ryder and haven't gotten scared when we have been out. Please don't make me stay here."

Begging was not something Thirteen wanted to do and she didn't want to make Ryder feel bad but she just didn't understand and it almost hurt that Ryder seemed so cold now.

Giving a nod a small smile makes its way on Dalton's face. A gentil hand running down the side of Dani's face. She did something to him, and he felt so open around her.

"Yes, really."

He ment what he said and he new it made Dani feel good and thats what mattered. Making such a pretty flower shine and bloom was something that should happen more in the dark world.

"You Dani Bank's are what I call a gutter flower."

Stoping for a moment he almost cringers before he continues.

"I know that sounds horrable but....Your so beautiful and have been delt such a crappy hand. If I could pick you and take you some place better, where would you want me to take you?"

Cringing again Dalton shakes his head.

"Dani can I take you on a date is what I mean? I think..."

Really?

Trooper gives a little growl to show he's displeased with the tension in the air, but a look from Ryder warns him to stand down.

Hal glances at the dog warily, already having made a mental note not to act as a threat towards Thirteen. He turns, leaving to wait for the other two.

Ryder's fingers have curled around Thirteen's hand automatically, and he waits until Hal is gone to turn to her. There was an apology in his eyes... but not just for the intrusion. His face shows he's just about to say something, then changes his mind. "Come on," he prompts gently. "It'll be okay. We gotta go back for a little while at least."

After picking up the living room, making sure Trooper was set for the day and gathering anything they'd brought, Ryder leads Thirteen outside and in the car. Pulling from the driveway, he checks his rearview mirror to see that Hal was close behind...

"Alright, wait here just a few minutes, okay?" Ryder makes sure that Thirteen is sitting in Susanne's extra chair before approaching Reese's office. He wasn't looking forward to this, and he didn't want Thirteen to have to be there either.

It is only moments before Ryder is in the next office with the door closed behind him as he sits down across from Reese. The conversation is tense and to the point.

"Not only was it against protocol, against my orders and stupid, it was inappropriate!" Already upset from all the other events, Reese throws his arms in the air. "You took her to Jason's house! Have you no sense left in your head?!"

"I didn't act inappropriately!" Ryder defends, though his face reddens slightly.

Reese quirks an eyebrow, already picking up on a vibe that was awfully close to guilt. "Oh, really?"

Ten minutes later, the door opens again and Ryder comes back into Susanne's office. Gesturing to Thirteen, he offers the best smile he can and takes her by the hand to quietly lead her back across the main floor, down the hall and to the spare room. Once there, the door stays open and he turns Thirteen so she can see his face.

"I'm not in all that much trouble," he reassures. He knew that had been a fear of hers. But something is different. Something in his tone isn't quite as warm. Something has changed.

"You're gonna have to stay here," he tells her pretty flatly. "I'm sorry. But Reese won't have it any other way and... it's probably best. He's probably right. So... tell me what you need to get through the day and night and... I'll get it for you. Then I have other work I need to do."


Dani sniffs again, and is a little surprised at Dalton's gentleness and the offer of a tissue. With such a horrible morning, for a moment she felt a little warm again.

His comment catches her off guard and she looks up quickly. "Really?" She swallows and sniffs one more time. "I mean... I have?"

Old Hulk

Ryan rolls her own eyes at Leo as she gives a chuckle. She felt back that Leo was always the one getting picked on but she also had to admit it was kind of funny.

"I am sure its not broken you big wuss, you just might lose a nail or something. So no gold shoes to match the shorts, and tank top tonight ok?"

Giving another grin Ryan turns again and pops the hood on her car to start working on it before they all got in trouble when the boss showed up.

Feeling Ryder's hand on her chin Thirteen looks up at him again. Seeing him lean in a little closer Thirteen continues to watch Ryder's eyes searching, and wondering about his intent. Her own eyes almost go wide as she new what would happen next. A panic ran over her but not because she was scaired but because she didnt know what to do, or how to react.

Quickly trying to calm herself and think images pass in her mind of the differnt books she read but as she feels Ryder's breath on her face as was lost, and feeling his soft gentil lips on her own Thirteen closes her own eyes intisapating the next moment as she almost felt like melting.

But the moment was shattered as the male voice eckos through the house. Jumping Thirteen can feeling herself tense once again and start to shiver just a little she slips her hand into Ryder's for his reasurance that everything would be ok.

Feeling sorry for Dani, Dalton's face held a softer look. He had hurd what happend, and that Dani might have been the reason for Alec's escape but he also tryed to have an understanding.

"We all lean sometimes that not everyone can be trusted. Family or not. You thought you were doing good, and thats a good thing. But next time you just have to think better ya know?"

Dalton gives a small sigh as he looks down at Dani. He hated seeing anyone cry let alone a woman. It just broke his heart.

"People will be mad, but we have Alec again so they will get over it."

Pulling a tissue from his pocket his large hands almost hide it was he softlys trys to whip Dani's tears away. Thinking for a moment before talking again. It wasnt often he showed a soft side, but maybe this was just another crack in his hard shell.

"I'm awfully glad you come around. You always walk past my office and though I dont always say something. You've given this old Hulk something to smile about."

Toe

Leo laughs and slides off the hood with a dramatic bow. "Your wish is my command!"

Spinning around, he runs right into Ron, who promptly drops his toolbox on impact. A howl is let loose from Leo's mouth and he grabs at his foot that the toolbox landed on. "Ohhhh, I'm in pain!"

Ron doesn't have much sympathy for him, and starts to pick up the tools. "The rest of us are in pain from listening to you two flirt with each other since you got here too. Serves you right for not paying attention."

"Hey, but I-"

"Now now, children," Axel chides teasingly from his car. "Play nice."

"I can't play at all now," Leo complains, rubbing his foot through his tennis shoe. "I think I broke a toe."

"You big wuss." Ron rolls his eyes. "Work. Car. Darrell will be here any minute."


Receiving the kiss to the cheek, Ryder's mouth curls into a smile. He saw Thirteen's cheeks flush and knew that she was probably a little embarrassed, not sure what to do.

"You're welcome," comes his whispered response. He reaches down to tilt her chin up again and leans close, watching Thirteen's eyes to ensure he wasn't scaring her. Cocking his head just a little his lips barely brush against hers-

"Ryder!"

Ryder shoots up and whips around to the stern voice coming from around the corner at the door. "What the-"

Trooper hadn't even barked. The dog knew the vehicle and the familiar scent of Hal.

"Do you have any idea how much trouble you're in?" Hal's voice rolls into the kitchen before he appears, a frown on his face.

Ryder sighs and throws up his hands. "I can take a guess. How long did it take you to find me?"

"Not long after we realized this morning that the girl was gone. Jason knew where you were."

Ryder rolls his eyes. "Great. Reese ready to kill me?"

"No, he's got his hands full of Dani Banks at the moment. Sounds like she's the one who let Alec loose - you were right. He's got her down there now, but I can't go back without you."

"Well what am I supposed to do with Thirteen now, huh? We can't just keep her at TJY the rest of her life, and she doesn't deserve prison."

"You're gonna have to talk to Reese about it," Hal warns. "Not me. I'm sorry." He gives Thirteen a gentler glance, not wanting to scare her any more than he probably already had. "Both of you need to get ready to go. I'll follow you in."


Dani whips around, startled by Dalton. She has to look up to see his face, and her own grows hot. "Yes... yes I'm fine... I mean no... I..."

She sniffs again, as another several tears escape to trickle down her face. Her head is lowered again. "I'm in trouble and... and I didn't meant to... I didn't know.... but now Carson's mad and I have to talk to Reese and... and.... I should just stay away from here... I shouldn't ever have come."

Her voice trembles as she talks, almost in a whimper. "I didn't know Alec was lying to me... I just feel so.... so stupid."

Tools

Feeling her cheeks getting red Thirteen looks up into Ryder's eyes, as she tummy did flip flops again. It was a strange feeling but it didn't feel like something that should be feared.

Leaning up just a little Thirteen gives Ryder a small kiss on the cheek before retreating again and leaning back into the chair. She had only read it in books about kissing, and didn't know if she did it the right way or not but it was done.

"Thank you for everything."

Letting out a small sigh Thirteen looks down at her hands for a moment. She liked being around Ryder, she liked talking to him. What would she do when he was gone?

Ryan grins and shakes her head as Leo hopes up on her car.

"I get out at 6, unless someone keeps sitting on the hood of the car I need to work on!"

She cant help but give a slap to Leo's arm as she goes over to one of the doors and opens it starting the engine with a bang right underneath Leo.

"Mind grabbing my tools for me?"

Not really getting into the mold of things yet today Dalton was hardly awake but his hearing was as sharp as always. Picking up on the soft sniffles, and the scuffing of feet for a moment maybe his hearing was off today. But hearing it again he knows its really there.

Looking up from his desk he see Dani slowly walking past his office and can catch the redness of her face, and the bloodshot eyes before she lowers her gaze again.

Getting up from his desk and worried something was wrong he quickly exits the office. In a few long strides she was close enough to Dani to stop her. Gentily placing his hand on her shoulder she gently asks.

"Hey, are you ok?"

How could you

Ryder stares over Thirteen's shoulder into the mirror, the only emotion showing through a little grin at the corner of his mouth.

In response to her question, he moves around in front of her, bent low so his face is inches from hers, his hands on the chair beside her shoulders. "I think you're beautiful. And don't you ever let anyone else tell you otherwise."


Leo watches Ryan walk away and straightens up, his mouth hanging open for a minute. "But... it... I... I just..."

Inwardly kicking himself, he steps after her, getting between her and the car she was going to work on. "I didn't say I didn't want to go," he corrects. "But how many times have you told me no? You can't blame me for not believing you."

Bouncing up to sit on the hood of the car so Ryan couldn't open it yet, he looks up at her with a grin. "How could I say no to you? What time do you get off work?"


"I'm sorry!"

"Dani, how could you?!" Carson paces inside the interrogation room, his temper rising. "I thought you were smarter than that!"

"He told me he could prove he was innocent!" A tear runs down Dani's cheek. She'd barely had time to get ready for anything this morning when Carson had received a phone call of confirmation from Reese, and she'd been brought in to TJY for questioning. Alec was back in the holding cell.

"And you believed him?!" Still upset, Carson looks at his watch. "I gotta go. Aerith and Mabel are already opening up the restaurant and I can't bail on them today. You're gonna have to deal with Reese yourself."

"But Carson-"

"No! You got yourself into this mess. I can't spend my time fighting your battle. You were stupid enough to think Alec was legit, and to swallow his lies and help him escape, you can figure out how to get yourself out of this. I'll see you later."

Seeing her brother heading out the door, another tear falls from Dani's eye as her lower lip trembles. She hadn't meant to cause trouble. She'd believed Alec... she thought he was good deep down, like Carson was. She knew she shouldn't have helped him escape but he'd said he would come back in an hour with evidence.

Standing up from the table, she knew she should be grateful they hadn't locked her in here. Reese was being as nice as possible, letting her tell him when she was ready to talk. But this was still scary and she didn't know what would happen, now that she'd helped a criminal escape.

Wandering into the hall, Dani swipes at her eyes and ducks her gaze as someone passes her. She would go to Reese's office and let him know she was ready. There wasn't much to tell. He probably knew everything already. But if something was going to happen to her because of all this then... she would find out now.

Her feet scuffed on the floor as she headed to the offices on the other side of the main floor. Passing an open door, she glances up just in time to see Dalton, but she's quick to lower her eyes again. She was so ashamed and she hurt too, for upsetting her brother like she had.

Think

Taking a few steps backwards Ryan looks at Leo for a long moment almost shocked by his response. Maybe she had taken him for granted or just read him wrong.

Not sure how to respond to Leo since he said no Ryan is quiet for a few moments longer.

"Do I always have to have a punchline?"

Ryan cross her arms over her chest as a small grin was on her face. The only thing she could do was what she normally did. Never had she been in a situation like this before.

"I don't understand you Leo? You have been chasing me around for months now ever week asking me out at least once and now when I decide to finally give it a go, you don't want to?"

Shaking her head and turning to walk twords the car she would be working on today Ryan gives a heavy sigh.

"Your worse than a woman you know that Leo?"



Thirteen makes it quick getting her shower taken care of though the water felt nice and she would of liked to stay longer she new Ryder was waiting.

Once breakfast was done and Thirteen was sitting in the chair with the towel around her neck she closed her eyes and let Ryder go to work. Though she could feel herself shaking just a little Thirteen new she would be ok in Ryder's hands.

Once Ryder is finished and Thirteen opens her eyes looking at her own reflection in the mirror. Moving her head side to side to look at herself in the mirror.

"It looks good, I like it."

Looking into the mirror again Thirteen brings her hands up to Ryder's arms and moves them just a little as he makes his comment on her being pretty. Now seeing his face in the mirror Thirteen just looks at him for a long moment studying his eyes as a strange feeling enters her tummy.

"You think I'm pretty?"

Pretty young lady

Leo's concentration is on the tool bench and he lifts an eyebrow as Ryan comes up behind him. Giving her a sidelong glance, his hands stay busy wiping grease off a wrench with a rag. "Dinner? You and me?"

A little laugh surfaces. "What gives, Ryan? I keep waiting for the punchline here."

He sets down the tool and rag, then turns around to lean back against the tool bench and fold his arms across his chest. He cocks his head, studying Ryan's eyes. "I rank among the most-ignored. How come all of a sudden you want me around?" It was apparent that though he continually tried to get Ryan's attention, now that he was getting it, he didn't believe it was real.


Ryder grins as Thirteen leaves the chair, and he stretches long, yawning again. "Me, trim your hair?" He would have laughed, had he not suddenly seen a disastrous picture in his mind. Making Thirteen sit in a strange shop in a strange chair with a stranger behind her with scissors... not good. Well, he'd cut hair before. He could do it again.

"Alright. Go clean up and I'll meet you in the kitchen. Then we'll have breakfast."

A little while later, Ryder has Thirteen sitting in a kitchen chair with a towel around her neck, her hair still damp from the shower. He takes a comb and gently works through a few tangles. "Okay, here we go..."

He grabs the scissors off the counter, and studies her hair for a moment before going to work. He's silent as he clips, letting the short trimmings fall to the floor. Coming around the front of Thirteen, he bends a little and tells her to close her eyes as he trims around the edges. His thumb rests under her chin to tilt her head back as need be.

It doesn't take long before the scissors are laid aside, and he's raking his fingers through her hair instead, helping it dry the rest of the way. Finding a small mirror, he leans down from behind her and holds the mirror up in front of her face, smiling over her shoulder. "There now... who's the pretty young lady, hmm?"

Outside of Town

Squinting her eyes as she enters the shop Ryan's eyes held dark circles under them proving that she might not have gotten much sleep last night. After dropping Leo off for the night she stayed up a little later joining with a few other people she new at the bar to celebrate her victory before finally heading home and to bed as the sun came over the horizon.

Making her way to the the time clock to punch in Ryan cant help but stop and watch the men work on the cars as her eyes fall on Leo and linger there for a long moment just watching his every move.

Hearing her cell phone ring snaps her out of whatever trans she had been in.

"Whiting here...."

Ryan swipes her badge in with a beep letting her know for the day she was working.

"Yeah, tonight...I...."

Looking out at Leo once again Ryan lets out a small sigh.

"...yeah I'll be there. Alright, bye."

Putting her phone away she was a little more dishearten than before but maybe it would still work. That was if Leo wanted to come with her.

Going out to the shop bay Ryan gives a wave to everything coming up behind Leo and slinging an arm around his shoulder leaning on him.

"So, I have a little bit of cleaning up to do outside of town and well I was wondering if maybe you'd like to come Leo and keep me company. Promise I wont make you wair any short shorts or a tank top."

Ryan gives a grin as she looks at Leo, humor in her eyes, but the searous glint behind them was there.

"Maybe after we could do dinner!"

Slowly opening her eyes Thirteen almost forgets she had fallen asleep in Ryder's lap but hearing his voice brings a small smile to her face.

"Can you trim it for me?"

Looking up at Ryder she gives a smile again, but than as if relizing again where she was her cheek get a little red as she sits up.

"I'm sorry I fell asleep on you, it just....it was nice to sleep soundly and feel safe for once."

Giving a little stretch Thirteen slips gently off Ryder's lap so he can have room to move and stretch out himself.

Someone needs...

Leo just stands, watching Ryan walk away. Miles sets his hands on his hips. "Well now... looks like you finally snagged yourself a girl."

Leo watches until Ryan is out of sight in the crowd before turning his face to Miles. A grin is forced to the surface. "Heh... sure."

"You're supposed to sound happy, Stupid."

"I would be..."

"If?"

"If I thought it were true." Leo shakes his head, a laugh finally coming to light. "You know me. Angels are always out of my reach." Still grinning, he slings an arm around Miles' shoulders. "Let's go route her on, Pal. She wants to hear us."

...A win was cheered on from the sidelines as loudly as any other. Many were not surprised that Ryan had won, though many were upset over money lost.

The crowd grew rowdy and didn't disperse until late. Friends dwindled for the night, only to reunite again the next day.


"Leo! Toss me that screwdriver!" Ron flails his arm out from under the car. "Leo? Leo!"

"Huh?"

"Screwdriver!"

Leo pushes off the tool bench and scrounges for the tool before tossing it to Ron.

"What's with you?" Ron asks, just a little annoyed.

"He didn't get enough sleep last night," Axel teases from another car. "Up too late watching those things we don't talk about around here."

"Stuff a sock in it, Axel."

Axel spins around, taken totally off guard. "Whoa, easy. Sorry. You alright?"

"Yeah, fine." Leo waves him off, relaxing. "Sorry. Need help with that over there?"

"Sure."


The morning light peeked through the blinds on the windows, playing about Ryder's face. He stirs, squinting a little. Yawning, he starts to stretch, then remembers the bundle on his lap. He'd slept like a rock all night and had almost forgotten that Thirteen had joined him on the chair.

Running his fingers through her hair, he tries to wake her gently. "Someone needs a haircut," he muses quietly.

The most

Giving a smile for maybe the first time her cheaks go red as she can feel the heat up her neck. It was strange. The hardness was still there but Leo had found an unseen entrances.

Composing herself Ryan leans her head against Leo's for a moment looking into his eyes.

"Your two sweet you know that."

Pulling away she looks to Miles and rolls her eyes giving him a grin and than looking back to Leo.

"I guess I should get going if I wanna race huh? I expect to hear your voice above everyone else after all its the one I like the most."

Turning around again Ryan leaves before throwing one more glance over her shoulder then getting into her car.

Luck

Being taken in by Ryan's kiss, it takes Leo a moment just to realize what was going on. His muffled protest goes unheard, but quickly dwindles as his arm wraps around Ryan's waist, the other over her shoulders.

"Aw man!" Miles spins around to turn his back on them. "The race is about to start and you two are... yeah."

Leo ignores him completely, blinking as Ryan finally pulls away. Hearing her question, he just stares at her dumbly for a moment. "Uh... um... I... didn't know angels needed luck."

Incentive

Walking away Ryan stops as she is about to turn to say something but catches part of the conversation and Leo thinking she was joking. Maybe she was, maybe she wasnt or maybe it was the moonlight, the music and the thrill of the race that made her want to do what she did next. Or maybe, just maybe somewhere she had grown to like Leo a little more.

Walking quickly back over to Leo Ryan takes him in by the arms and turns him around looking at him in the eyes for a moment before bringing her lips to his and giving him a deep kiss that last for a few moments before pulling away as she grins.

"I said wish me luck or was the incentive of a date not good enough?"

Habit?

Feeling Thirteen's hands, then her weight on his lap, Ryder opens his eyes, and lifts his arms, a bit bewildered. He expected her to say something, but she remains quiet, simply curling up on his legs.

He blinks, not really sure how to react as she nuzzles her face into his chest. Slowly, he lets his arm drop and wrap around her, pulling her close so she can't roll off the chair. His other hand takes the blanket to tuck it around her, his fingers brushing lightly against her cheek.

Taking a deep breath, he lets it out slowly, wondering how on earth he'd gotten himself into this position. It wasn't that he didn't like it... but he would have a hard time letting go.

Bending his neck, he plants a soft kiss in Thirteen's hair. "You're welcome," he whispers.

Leaning back, he closes his eyes once more. Sleep was quick to come.


Getting yanked closer to Ryan, Leo's eyes go wide for just a moment. Too soon though, she's already pulled away, and his arm is left hanging open.

A silly grin spreads on his face and he lets out sly growl, lifting and lowering his eyebrows.

Miles slaps his arm. "She serious?"

Leo stops the act and smirks, thinking Ryan is out of earshot. "Kidding? She's just fooling around. She is so out of my league, man."

"Hasn't stopped you from asking her on a date every five minutes."

"Habit."

"Sure." Miles gives him a knowing look and elbows him.

Leo elbows him back. "Whatever. Let's go find Ron."

Luck

Exiting the kitchen and heading into the livingroom again Thirteen is a bit surprised to see Ryder grab the blanket and for a moment she just cocks her head and looks at him. He was going to stay after all.

Sitting down on the ground Thirteen continues to watch Ryder as he closes his eyes. A small chuckle coming out at his comment.

"I guess I dont know if I snore or not. You will have to ask Trooper on that one."

Playing with the fray on the blanket as Ryder's eyes drift shut again Thirteen is silent. Ryder was staying for her and it made her feel good inside.

Stretching her neck a little Thirteen looks up into Ryder's lap. It looked so comfortable and inviting, sleep, sleep would come easy there.

Slowly moving across the floor on all fours Thirteen inches closer o Ryan till she is right next to him. Standing and every so gently Thirteen puts her hands on Ryder's legs, than his check than wraps her one arm around the back of him.

Leaning her head on his chest for a long moment her eyes stay open as she listens to Ryders heart beat. The sound rythmatic, almost hypnotising. With in moments Thirteen's eyes close as she difts in and out of sleep. Feeling safe and comfortable.

Giving a laugh again and shaking her head Ryan cant help but just hold Leo's arm for a moment before jerking him twords her for a moment to move him out of some rough looking people's way. But as Leo is close to her now she cant help herself as she gives him a flashy smile.

"Maybe next time it will be a date and I wont make you wair the gold cloths."

Letting go of Leo Ryan gives him a little bop on the nose with her finder before looking back to Mile's as her eyes twinkle and her lips move up in a grin.

"Hey, I think this is Ron's first race. I hope I win."

Looking around the crowd again Ryan turns to her two friends grabbing her gloves from her pocket and putting them on.

"Well I guess I will see you guys at the finish line. Wish me luck."

Throwing a wink to them again Ryan turns and is off.