You look

Phinox's family was gone, his home and all he new in Spain was no more. Where was he to go now? What would he do? Two worlds he has lived in were both lies, who really was Simon Phinox? A lier, an assassin, and undercover agent, a criminal...who was he and where did he belong now?

Looking up at Reese Phinox searchs his face for a long moment.

"I have no where else to go and though I might not fit in with the elite my name being cleared would be nice. I guess we can start there and see what happens."

Looking with consern to Con as he talked on the phone Jamie waited. What else could go wrong? It seemed like it was one thing after another.

Waiting till he was oh the phone Jamie brings a hand to her mouth as she hears about Bret. It was hard to hear about a friend being hurt yet so close to thee edge.

"Yes yes I understand completely. Please let Charlotte know I am here if she needs anything."

Jamie gives her husband a hug and a quick kiss before taking a few steps back.

"Give me a call later and I cant stop by the hospetil on the way home if your still there."

Moving through the kitchen quickly keeping up pretty well with Ryder Thirteen does her best and is pleased with herself.

The kitchen was now a mess, Ryder was a mess and so was she but it had been fun. Something she had never experince before but happy she now had. It was differnt, but the hussle of the kitchen sh liked.

Laughs fulled the kitchen every now and than as silly things happend, or flower went all over. The smells that filled the air were nice, and seeing the smiling people out in the dinning room made her feel good that she had helped put those smiles on there faces.

Turning to Ryder flower was on her own cheeks along with some sause and a few other food items. A smile on her face.

"This is kind of fun, and you look reticulated but still as cute as ever."

Death wish

Reese watches Phinox, still in a bit of shock. He finally puts his feet in motion, and walks around his desk to sit down too, his eyes still on the man they all had thought was dead.

Listening intently, he lets out a long sigh, and shakes his head. "I'm sorry, Phinox... if we would have known... You know, you were the hero that day... if it hadn't been for you, Katie probably wouldn't be with us now." He nods, implying that was the answer to Phinox's question. "But she is. We were able to get her out. She spent a month in a coma but... she's on the mend and will probably be back to work tomorrow."

Leaning forward a little, he folds his hands on the desk. "We wound up with the girl who was set up as Katie's double as well. Her name's Jasmine, though at the moment, she's still going by her Agency-given name of Thirteen. One of my men is handling her care. So yes... the mission was a success... other than your supposed death. We all wished we would have had time to thank you. I know your past has some stains, but... you showed you truly cared, giving your life like that."

Reese thinks for a long moment, just studying Phinox. He was slowly getting over the shock, but a lot of questions remained, and none came with easy answers. "I wish I could say that you're free, but... I know you're smart enough to know that we're going to have to go through some channels here, if you're going to stick around. I'm not going to force you though... you helped us bring Katie back, so if your plan is just to walk away and go, then I won't stop you. But... if you want to stay... if you have nothing else then... I'd like to help."


Con grins and comes around to draw Jamie into an embrace, enveloping her in his large frame. "Mm... I'm just glad I'll get to see you more."

Before he can say anymore, his phone vibrates on his belt. "I better get that." Letting go of Jamie, he takes his phone and looks at the number. He didn't recognize it. "Hello? Yes, this is Con..." He throws Jamie a confused look as he talks to the person on the other end. "What? When? What happened? Yes... please..." He scrambles around Jamie in the small space, fishing for a pen and piece of paper, scribbling out a short memo. "Uh-huh... yeah, thanks. Appreciate it."

Flipping his phone shut, he turns back to Jamie, looking down at her grimly. "That was someone from the racetrack. There was an accident and Bret's in critical condition. He's in ICU right now and apparently Charlotte's there with him. I should go."


"Of course you can help me!" Ryder spins around twice before spotting an extra apron. "Here we go." Turning Thirteen, he ties the apron around her waist for her. "There we are... now you're officially an assistant of a pretend cook."

He rubs his hands together, going to the stove, then looking up to find the orders that were waiting. "Let's see... um... chicken. Yes... chicken."

"Fridge!" Dani yells at him. "Come on, let's move."

"Moving, moving!" Ryder's eyes were wide as he glances at Thirteen again. "I hope you realize that this was as good as a death wish on Carson's part."

For the next hour, the kitchen is chaos. Food, pots, pans, plats, utensils and anything else imaginable ends up on the counter, table, floor, trash and anywhere else it could possibly land. Good use is made of the mop, and a batch of pasta winds up ruined. One attempt at pizza winds up in filling the kitchen with smoke before the second one is made, and at some point in time, a cloud of flour replaces the cloud of smoke.

But somehow, with the help of Dani and Aerith, the customers are none the wiser. Though everything is an entire mess, Ryder somehow manages to pull through, even gaining a compliment from a very satisfied customer. He wasn't sure what he did with the white sauce, but it must have worked. Though his style was a bit different from Carson's, surprisingly enough, the food ends up done, just a tad later than usual.

Another half hour, and there was a steady flow of people. By now the kitchen was is total disarray, but by this time, Ryder has somewhat of an idea of what's going on, and at least knows where things are.

"Another pepperoni pizza!" Dani calls, handing off the drink list to Aerith before stepping to a waving customer at another table.

"Got it!" Ryder yells back. "Um..." Turning around once or twice, he gets his bearings again, and sets to work. Flour was smudged on his cheek and shirt, and two fingers on his right hand sported bandaids where he'd burned himself. His left thumb also wore a bandaid from slicing it with a knife.

He glances at the clock, then over to Thirteen who he had set to work getting him utensils when he needed them. "Carson is so dead."

One question

Leaning into Jason Katie can feel his comfort that seemed to whipe away the worry. Now words needed to be said between these for two. There comfort would soak into each other and chase away the tears.

"I though I was dead too untill I woke up in a cold Agency cell with five bullet hole wounds dug out and sewn up."

Taping his right knee Phinox signals one of the bullets had hit his kneecap causing damage and the reason for his limp.

"Why they kept me alive I dont know. Maybe because I had information about you, all of you or because I had information about them."

Walking past Reese Phinox cant help the small grin that spread on his face in seeing Reese reaction. Getting to one of the chairs Phinox eases himself down in it.

"For a little under a month that cell was my home. Everyday I was told my family was gone and I know they were telling the truth. They are the Agency when one of there own betrays them they make them suffer. I had nothing left."

Drawing in a wavering breath it was easy to see that talking about his family was a hard time for Phinox to do, but regaining his composure quickly he continues.

"Slowly on the inside I was dieing but to fully die by the hand of the Agency would have been a disgrace. So I formed a plan and escaped. I stole a motorcycle from them and than made my way here to face my fate. To have the Elite judge me would have been better than the Agency."

Shifting just a little Phinox trys to make himself comfortable in the uncomfortable situation.

"But before you decied my fate could you honer me with on request? A question really?"

Most people would think someone facing much like Phinox would beg for there life or ask for someone to reconsider bit Phinox did neather. His question was simple and very selfless.

"That girl we went in for you guys got her out ok? She is alright?"

Looking up from her work Jamie squints her eyes just a little bit. A grin crossing her face as her eyes scan the badge."

"Ohh...well look at you!"

Standing Jamie wraps her arms around Con's neck. She only hoped this would lighten Con's mood again and be good for him. She new this was his passion and though he wasnt doing the same as before it was still close to the same.

Following Ryder into the back Thirteen sticks close. Things had gotten a little to busy before and had put her on edge.

Staring to go over to the table Thirteen cant help but let out a giggle as she trys to watch Ryder move around the kitchen not really knowing where anything was. For once it was strange but funny to see him panicing a little.

Standing Thirteen goes over and stands next to him looking out into the dinningroom. It was getting super busy. Maybe she couldnt do much but at least maybe it was something.

"Can I help you make a mess? I cant do any worse than you right?"

Thirteen gives a smile as her eyes twinkle.

Entering the room Charlotte slowly goes over to the bed and looks down at Bret. A few tears roll down her cheek as she looks at her husbands still form in the bed. Hooked up to all the masheans and seeing all the cuts and bruses on him he looked so differnt.

Grabbing a chair Charlotte moves it to the side of the bed and sits down slipping her hand into Bret's.

"Oh Bret, please be ok. I dont know what I would do with out you in my life. Specially now before you even get to know your going to be a dad."

Leaning her head down Charlotte rests her head on Brets hand just letting the silence rule as so many things ran through her own mind.

We thought...

Jason meets Katie as she comes from the break room, giving her a knowing look.

It'll be okay... and so will Jeff.

He reaches out to wipe away a tear. There was still an unresolved issue between them, but for now, he wouldn't let it interfere. Instead, he slings an arm around her shoulders to walk with her back to the infirmary.


JT nods kindly to Charlotte. "Okay... you can follow me then." He guides her from the waiting room, and down through a series of halls until they are at the Intensive Care Unit. The room is small and open in case the doctors are needed, so there isn't much privacy, but at the moment, the atmosphere is quiet.

"Take as much time as you need," JT offers. "If you need anything, just ask one of the nurses." Leaving slowly, he lets Charlotte be alone. Wandering back down the hall a little ways, he goes into an employee break room to sink down on the small couch. Leaning forward, he rests his elbows on his knees with his face in his hands. It had been a long day. Bret had been his worst case, and he was worn out. But he had to stay a little longer... just a little longer.


Bret lies in the bed, still and quiet. There were many wires, hooked up to monitors to track his vitals and warn if anything went out of balance. His breathing is slow and rhythmical and his hands lay at his sides, motionless.

A brace supported his neck, while his head sported bandaging near his temple. His right shoulder was wrapped tightly, surrounded by cold packs, and his left ankle was wrapped and elevated. A few bruises had formed on his face, but he seemed to be resting peacefully.


Ryder settles in at the small table, sitting across from Thirteen. He had timed their arrival to Mom and Pop's in between mealtimes, so it wouldn't be too busy, and he'd calculated correctly. It would probably start to get busy in about half an hour, though customers did drift in and out right now. It was quiet enough though, that Ryder was confident Thirteen could handle it, especially after being at the mall. She really was improving, and he was proud of her.

"Well, after all that shopping, I do believe I have a bit of an appetite again," he muses, scanning the small menu. "Mm... maybe a slice of pizza?"

He glances over the top of the menu to Thirteen and his eyes squint slightly, signaling that he was hiding a smile. "It's some of the best pizza in town, even if Carson's the one who makes it."

"Did I hear my name being taken in vain?" Carson calls from the kitchen, turning from Aerith and poking his head out and over the counter.

"You did." Ryder gives him a wave.

Though both men weren't the best of friends, during the last month or so they had managed to settle their differences enough to interact on a friendly level and just lately had started to tease each other as well, proving that the rocky past was being slowly overcome.

Carson grins. "I see you have a friend with you today."

"I do." Ryder winks at Thirteen. "We've had quite a day. Shopping... ice cream... and a promise to learn how to swim."

"Ooh now that sounds like fun." Carson smiles at Thirteen, finding pleasure in seeing her blossom out of the dark corner she'd lived in. "I was just-" A timer dings, warning him to get back in the kitchen. "More later."

"Yeah, later." Ryder nods before looking back to Thirteen. "Hungry yet?"


Just as Carson is returning to the stove, his cell phone rings. He growls and hands off the pot to Dani before answering his phone. "Yeah, make it quick."

"I have it."

Carson bristles at the gruff female voice. "The password?"

"Yes."

"When do I get it?"

"Meet me at the vacant lot on the corner of town. You know the one."

"What time?"

"Thirty minutes."

Carson's eyes widen. It would take him at least that long just to get there. "How about tonight?"

"Thirty minutes or you can forget it."

"No... no, I'll come. Just... wait for me." He hangs up and closes his eyes, taking a deep breath. The bell on the front door startles him and he sees seven people walk in. Great. His mind races. He had to go. He had to get that information and this was his only window. But it was going to get busy here and he would be gone for at least an hour, if not two. But what about here? He had to go... he had to stay...

Looking around the kitchen he sees Aerith and Dani already hard at work, Herb was having a quiet day at home, and Mable had already gone home and wouldn't be back until later. Great. Just great. Then an idea hits him.

Hurrying out to the tables, he spots Ryder. "I need your help." He takes Ryder's arm and starts to pull him from his chair.

"Whoa, steady mate. What's this about?"

"I need you in the kitchen." Carson unties his apron and hands it to a bewildered Ryder. "Dani and Aerith will show you around. Just for an hour or so, that's all I need."

"The kitchen? What? Me? No way, what are you -"

"Please," Carson begs. "I know you've been working on your Italian cooking, and I have to go for just a short time. Please..."

Ryder looks to Thirteen, to the apron in his hand, then to Carson. "Well... I..."

"Thank you." Carson pats his shoulder. "I knew you would. Be back in a jiff." Turning, he jogs back to the kitchen to grab his baseball cap and keys, and he's out the back door.

Ryder gives Thirteen a lame look. "Someone's got a few loose Kangaroos in the top paddock, and it isn't me." He blinks. "Um, I guess.... I'll be right back, or you... come with me." He heads to the kitchen with Thirteen, feeling stupid at his announcement. "Um... Carson left."

"He did what?" Dani's eyes widen and she looks to Aerith. "Why? When?"

"He didn't say. He just wanted me to do something, um, I don't know, cook or something?"

Dani couldn't believe it. "Do you even know anything about cooking?!"

"Kind of. I mean yes. I've dabbled some-"

"Dabbled?!" Dani throws up her arms. "Of all the.... he's an idiot! Leaving us with you!"

"Hey now." Ryder quirks an eyebrow. "I didn't have much of a choice here, but how about you see if it was an idiotic idea or not after he comes back ay?"

Dani can't help it that his calm tone calms her down too. "Well, put on an apron. We just got an order for two chicken parmigiana, a meatball sub, a personal pizza with mushrooms and olives, a chicken scampi and two chicken and shrimp carbonara."

Ryder blinks.

Dani looks up from the order pad. "Got all that?"

"Um..."

"Stove." Dani points around the kitchen. "Pots and pans, spices, there's red sauce already made up, utensils are there and there."

"Sure... right..."

Dani sighs and looks to Aerith. "So much for an easy afternoon."

"Fair go..." Ryder wanders around, trying to get his bearings. "I think I can handle this. I mean, what's a little bit of cooking, right? I'll just take a decko here and she'll be apples." He looks to Thirteen, motioning to the small table. "I guess you can take a seat and watch me make a mess."

Dani rolls her eyes. "I gotta go get table six their drinks. Aerith, watch this Aussie, will you? I have to babysit one at home, I'd rather not have to here."


Con ambles from Reese's office, slowly making his way over to the familiar cubicle. His shadow reaches his destination before he does, warning of the big man's approach. "Hey, beautiful."

Grinning, he leans over the wall easily, and pulls something out of his pocket to show Jamie. "What do you think?" An Elite badge reflects the light. "Don't have an office, but... I get a cubicle across the room from you for now."


Reese leans back in his desk chair, heaving a long sigh. He was glad Con had finally agreed to being back on the team. Though he wouldn't be out on as many cases as Jason like he'd been before, he would be very valuable in steak-outs, sniper situations and back in the office as well. There had been a hole ever since he had left, and even though Con wasn't confident he would do as good a job because of his hearing loss, Reese still trusted him.

"They leave, but they always come back." A chuckle comes out and he shakes his head. Groaning a little, he tries to refocus and figure out what he needed to do for the remainder of the long day.

His reprieve didn't last long though. The knock at the door interrupts him and he mumbles a, "Come in," his eyes still on his paperwork. When no one says anything, he looks up.

A chill runs down his spine as his eyes widen in shock. He could feel his jaw drop slightly and words evade him. "Wha..." Slowly, he gets to his feet. "Phinox?" He blinks, the strangest feeling coming over him. Phinox was supposed to be dead. He was supposed to have died at the scene when they had rescued Katie. "I..." He moves closer, making sure he was really seeing Phinox. "How? We thought you were dead."

One after another

Seeing the Dr come out Charlotte instantly stands up waiting to hear the news. Her heart still pounded inside her chest as if it was almost going to explode.

Listing to everything that had happened to Landon and that he would be ok gave Charlotte hope that Bret would be alright as well. Its all she had to hold onto right now that kept her from going crazy.

Taking JT's hand in her own she holds it for a long moment before letting go and bring her one arm down to her side while her other she wraps around herself waiting for the new on Bret.

"Please, how is my husband? Will he be ok?"

Looking up at the Dr with big bright eyes that held a a fear in them, and yet a little bit of hope. Hearing that Bret was alive Charlotte let out the breath she had been holding in. Though Bret was far from out of the woods she was thankful for now he was alive. Bret had always been a fighter and Charlotte just had to keep hope that he would fight through this was well.

Turning back to Kirk she gives a small nod and lays a hand on his arm.

"I'm going to go in and see him. Thank you! Let Landon know I send my wishes and if I can I will come and see him as well."

Turning back to JT Charlotte was ready to go and see her husband. Even if he wasn't awake right now at least she could be near so he would know he had a reason to pull through.

"I'm ready to go see him."

Walking by the kitchen Aerith stops and gives a smile to Carson. She'd gotten use to him running things now and it no longer felt strange. He did a good job anyways at it so there really was no complainants.

"Things are going good. He's been pretty busy the last few weeks but I understand its his job and all so it ok. He see me when he can."

Aerith gives another smile at Carson. She new things had been crazy specially with Carson away so much helping the elite it had to be busy. But Wyatt still came to see her almost everyday when he could even if it wasnt for long, and for that she was thankful.

"...Yeah so thats the lowdown really. I was hoping too if you remembered what the medicine Jeff was on was called? I know it didnt solve the problem last time but it help him at least."

Katie stood in the break room leaning on the counter as she talked with Angel. It was quiet in there and if some tears slipped out only one person would know and she would rather keep it that way.

"Yeah he was on a low dose of Oxycodone. Only about five mg of it when the pain got to bad."

Angel pulled out Jeff's file and flipped through the papers quickly looking for what she wanted on Jeff's illness. It had been a while since he had been sick now and they had thought on taking out the chip he was better and he was still now.

"Katie, let Rick know if might be an allergic reaction he is having to a melat. Thats what it was before. I am going to see if I can get the computer chip from Rosetta and run some tests on it to see if I can pin point anything to help more. ok?"

Though Angel couldnt see her Katie nodded anyways.

"Ok, I'll let him know thanks Angel."

Hanging up the phone Katie takes in a long breath of air and lets it out slowly. Exiting the breakroom Katie makes her way back to the infermary to watch over Jeff more and let Rick know what Angel said.

The rumble of a motercicle draws closer, the crackle of tired on the dirt as it slows and parks outside TJY. The figure that sat ontop of it just staired at the building for a long moment till finally he got off the bick and pulled helmet off.

Phinox took in a deep breath of air. A few new scars covered his face and he walked with a slight limp now but he had exscaped the grasp of The Agency once again. Now it was time to face the music here. He couldn't run forever. Jail or worse Phinox new he had to do what was right. He didnt have much left anyways.

Walkinig into TJY Phinox keeps his head down not to draw attachen to himself as the sound of his leather jacket crackled with every step he took.

Getting to Reese's office and not seeing Susanne around he knocks on the door. Hearing the answer to come in Phinox enters. His eyes lock with Reese but there were differnt from before. They were now tired and almost sad.

ICU

"Wait, but, wha..." Dani's voice trails off as she hears Dalton hang up. She rolls her eyes a little before flipping the phone shut.

"Dani!"

"Coming, coming." She puts her phone away then goes to the other side of the kitchen to see where they were at.

"New plans?" Carson inquires as he kneads more dough.

"Hmm? Oh yes... tomorrow, actually."

"Where you headed?"

Dani looks at him slyly. "Don't you wish you knew. I'm going to go see if table three needs anything."

Watching her walk away, Carson chuckles. Alone for a moment, he catches Aerith during a minute or two of quiet. "Hey, you. How's thinks with you and Wyatt?"


Leo lifts his eyebrows, thinking for just a moment. "I, um.... well no, I...." He starts to grin. "You could be covered in grease and still be beautiful. I just wanted to make sure you knew what you makeup job looked like so you could either take care of it, or make the other side to match."


Driving quickly across town, Kirk's hands grip the steering wheel so tightly that his knuckles turn white. It wasn't often there was an accident, and even more rarely was it any of his own men.

With the quiet, his mind is a million and one miles away until Charlotte speaks. Then he blinks, his eyebrows rising and his jaw dropping just a little. "He... you mean you're...." He looks over to her quickly before his mouth starts to curl into a smile. "Well I'll be... I never thought I'd see the day that Bret..." He lets his words trail off, the seriousness returning almost immediately. "You'll still get to tell him." He reaches over to pat Charlotte's shoulder. "He'll be okay... he'll be just fine..."

The rest of the ride seems to take way too long, but finally the hospital is in sight. Kirk and Charlotte arrive minutes after the ambulance, and Kirk leads the way inside. The information desk is chaotic and Kirk can't seem to get anywhere, losing his temper with one of the nurses until he's finally pointed down the hall in the right direction.

Making sure Charlotte was still with him, they wind up being forced to sit it out in a waiting room, hearing nothing of either men for what seemed like an eternity. Kirk paces like a caged cat, not once sitting down. His clothes smelled of smoke, his hands still stained with dirt and grease. But he didn't care. Several others from the track eventually join them, all waiting to hear the outcome of the two men.

Finally, a doctor appears and Kirk just about pounces on him. "How are they? Landon? Bret? Are they okay? Are they-" He's cut off by the doctor raising his hand.

"Alright, one thing at a time," the doctor states calmly. "First, Landon has a fair concussion to his skull, but he's out of the woods. We had to repair some damage on his leg, but it's nothing that time won't heal. He has one broken rib, but otherwise, no other bones were broken."

Kirks sighs in relief. "Can we see him?"

"He's being moved to room three-twenty-two right now. You may see him in a few minutes, though he's probably still a bit foggy from the medications we gave him."

"Okay. And Bret?"

The doctor scans his chart for a moment. "Is... Mrs. Parker here?"

Kirk gestures to Charlotte, making her step forward.

The doctor extends his hand, giving her a warm smile. "Hi, my name is JT. You must have had quite a scare today." His voice is calm, though his eyes hold seriousness to them. "Your husband is also being moved to a room, but will be kept in the ICU for the next few hours. Unfortunately, he received more trauma than Landon."

Kirk is still listening intently. "Just give it to us straight."

"Bret also received a concussion, and some damage to his neck. His lower spinal chord was pretty severely knocked around, though thankfully, nothing was broken there - that will just be somewhat painful as it heals. His right shoulder was broken and it took quite a while to repair that damage. His left ankle was also cracked and will have to heal before he'll be able to walk on it." JT pauses, glancing back at his chart. "Um... he's still unconscious right now... which worries me a little bit, so we're keeping a close eye on him. We'll only be able to tell if his spinal chord injury was severe or not when he wakes up."

"You mean..."

"I mean if he can move his limbs when he wakes up, we'll be doing well."

Kirk swallows hard and gives Charlotte a glance before looking back to the doctor. "Can we see him?"

"Mmm, right now his wife may go in, but I'd like to keep everyone else out for now, at least until he's out of the woods."

Dad

Hearing someone in the background Dalton figured Dani was at work and was busy. He had kept her on the phone long enough.

"No need to meet me there, I am going to pick you up. I have to go by your place anyways. Have a good rest of the day and see you when I pick you up tomorrow."

Hanging up the phone Dalton sinks down into his chair with a smile on his face. Tomorrow would be a good day he could tell already.

Taking the paper from Leo Ryan starts to look through it quick not sure what she wanted to see. Seeing the napkin and than looking in the mirror Ryan cant help but throw Leo a sidelong glance.

"Maybe I wanted it there. Does a little grease scare you?"

Trying to still push aganst the other man holding her back Charlotte trys to fight with all her might.

"That's my husband let me through, he needs me."

Continuing to try and push through finally Charlotte crumbles into the man's arms as tears came from her eyes. Her heart was thumbing so hard, and her hands trembled so much.

Finally seeing them pull Bret out of the car Charlotte stands again trying her best to see. Was he moving, was he breathing? He couldnt leave her he couldnt not now.

Hearing and see Kirk Charlotte catchs up with him moving quickly to his car not saying anything. The ride was quiet as Charlotte looked out the window a million things running through her mind as she felt sick to her stomach. Finally still looking out the window Charlotte speaks quietly.

"He cant leave me Kirk! He just cant, I didnt get the chanse to tell him he's going to be a father."

Looking up at Reese as she pass again Kaite rests her hand onto Reese arm to let him know she new it wasnt his fault. After everything she just wanted to make sure Jeff got better. Everything else could wait.

Trauma

Dani chuckles. "A picnic it is then. Everybody needs a picnic every once in a while."

"Dani, get off the phone!"

She turns and grimaces at her brother. Carson wasn't upset, but they did need her back out at the tables. "Sorry, Dalton, I gotta run. Duty calls. So tomorrow, at the lake, I'll meet you at noon, okay?"


Leo's face lights up. "Oh well then that's easy." He leans over as he drives, swerving just a little as he reaches over Ryan's lap to get into the glovebox. He pulls out part of a newspaper that lists that week's movies that were playing at the local theater, and hands it to her before getting the car back in the right lane again. "It's safer if I let you pick, then it can't be my fault if it's a bomb."

His silly grin remains as they continue towards the lake. "By the way..." He reaches over again, but this time up to flip down the visor that had a mirror before handing her a kleenex for the bit of grease that was on her cheek.


Smoke billows from the crash sight, lights from the emergency vehicles glimmering through the dense fog-like atmosphere. Sirens wailed. Shouting echoed through the mist of the spraying fire hose. Race personnel held back anyone who wanted to come near.

A large uniformed man reaches out to stop Charlotte from nearing the wreck. "I'm sorry, miss, you can't come any further." He yells at another man to stay back before looking down at Charlotte again. "You'll have to wait until the crew is finished. Give them room."

More lights flashed. Kirk was on the scene, skidding to his knees beside Bret's upturned car. "Bret... Bret! Can you hear me?!"

"Dang! What happened?" Landon pulls himself through the window of his car, falling to the ground with a thud before being pulled away from the engine's flames. "Hey... where's Bret? Is he okay?"

"Sir, calm down. Does your leg hurt?"

"My wha-" Landon looks down, only now seeing the gash in the side of his leg where blood was oozing through his suit. He starts to stagger. "Uh.. um..."

"Get a medic over here," the other man orders, helping Landon towards the emergency vehicle. "Laceration to his right leg, possible break and possible head trauma."

Landon groans as he's placed on a stretcher, the world seeming to spin. "But what about Bret?" he mumbles.

"Someone get over here!" Kirk yells, reaching into the car and trying to unbuckle Bret from his seat. "I could use some help here!"

Three men come running, prepared to get Bret's limp form from the car. It takes them a good ten minutes before they have him loose and are able to drag him from the car. Lying him on the ground, a light is shined into Bret's eyes, but he is unresponsive. Though breathing, he makes no moves. "We got head trauma, multiple lacerations and contusions, possible neck trauma. Get him on the stretcher, lets go, lets go!"

Kirk is forced to stand back lamely as he watches, the tension etched on his face. He sees his two drivers put into the ambulance, ready to be taken away. Glancing over his shoulder, he spots Charlotte, and goes to her quickly. "Come on. You can ride with me to the hospital."


Reese backs away as Katie comes out of the infirmary on her way to call Angel. "I thought Jeff was back at the ranch." He looks at her lamely. "He was on a brief security assignment, but that was over ages ago. I... I thought he was back."

ok

Looking to Reese Katie's eyes show worry as she stands and goes over to Reese. She new he was telling the truth but that still didn't answer where Jeff had been for the last month or so since she had been gone.

"But what was his mission Reese? Obviously its over now so its not a secret anymore."

Katie wasnt mad with Reese she was just concerned for her Uncle. Someone she was extremely close to. But hearing Jeff's voice again Katie reverts her attachen back to him forgetting about her question to Reese.

"Angel...Yeah I can call her see what she say."

Katie looks up to Rick and gives a small nod.

"I'll find out and than let you know what she says."

"Mmmm...lunch by the lake sounds good. The might have some better things to eat than fast food anyways. Dont drive to slow, or you might drive me crazy."

Giving a laugh Ryan throws her sunglasses on before rolling her window down. It was hot out today. More so than had been predicted, the cool air from the ride.

Looking back to Leo and raising an eyebrow at his question Ryan contemplates for a moment.

"Well I dont have a race tomarrow....and I havent been to the movies in a long time.."

Drawing silent for a moment it would be almost as if Ryan wouldnt finish her sentince or her line of thinking was broken. But she was thinking. Leo was fun to be around and was a good person to joke with, and he was nice.

"As long as its a good movie I'll go with you."

Smiling and standing to look out the window as to not almost kill himself again Dalton gives a smile.

"A picnic, that would be fun. I dont think I ever actully had one of those since I was a kid."

Moving away from the window Dalton paces the office alittle at he things.

"Well I was thinking I could pick you up and than I would bring you back home about a half hour from when you have to be to work. Than we can have the most time together."

Watching with excitment Charlotte is unable to hold it in. Squeling and jumping up and down anticipating who will win.

Continuing to watch Charlotte's smile soon fades as the accident happens before her eyes. Her heart races as she hears Bret's voice before all goes silent but the sicking crash in the headset.

"BRET, BRET..."

Not being able to help it her own curse slips from her lips as she pleade into the headset hoping Bert would respond. Receiving non Charlotte dosnt bother to even wait a nothing moment before she turns the headset off and bolts out of the room heading for the crash with speed.

Over and over and over

"I thought Jeff was at home."

Rick looks up quickly to see Reese in the doorway. "What?"

"I thought he was home." It's evident that Reese is telling the truth. "I gave him a job to do, then it was over and I didn't hear from him so I thought he was home. He wasn't?"

"Apparently not." Rick is now even more confused. "Where were you, Jeff, hmm?"

Jeff tries to open his eyes. His brain seemed to understand the words being asked, but it was hard making everything register. "Um... the Agency... I think... I can't remember." He stops to swallow and lick his dry lips. He gives Katie's hand a weak squeeze. "Angel... she knows..." His voice is still so quiet. "...she has my records... what the medication was. It... it at least helped with, um..." He frowns, trying to think of the right word as he feels lethargic. "...symptoms."


Leo grins as he slides in behind the wheel of his car, then takes off once Ryan is with him. "Hmm... we could do burgers. That's quick and easy. Or... we could take an extra long lunch for the fun of it since Darrell isn't around, and drive up to the fast food joint up by the lake."

He tosses Ryan a sidelong glance as he drives. "I was thinking maybe we could go to a movie tomorrow..." He was testing his limits and he knew it. But he wanted to know if Ryan would want to do more with him than just eat lunch and hang out at the street races. He knew he wanted to.


Dani stifles a giggle as Dalton stumbles over his words, and she tries to figure out what on earth he's saying, or trying to say. "Um... sure. The lake sounds great. I could even pack a picnic lunch if you want... sandwiches? And I could make some potato salad - at least Carson says it's edible." She grins. "Maybe around noon? Meet you there?"


Mick pulls Rosetta into another hug. Running his fingers through her hair. She was worn out. He didn't want her to have to travel anymore now.

"How about you call Trent and see if he's left Nevada yet? If he hasn't, have him stick around there and see how bad things really are. I'm not sure he's in that big of a hurry to get back here at the moment."


Bret grins and looks at the picture of Charlotte that was taped to his dashboard. He loved hearing her voice cheering him on. He and Landon had been racing together for months now, but only in trial runs and practices. Landon had been in several races lately, but with schedules and car malfunctions, this was the first time both were able to get on the track. The excitement never died. It only grew as the race drew to its halfway mark.

"Landon, quit fooling around," Kirk barks. "Get in here."

"I can make it one more lap."

"Sterling, watch your tail."

Bret checks his mirror. "Yeah, yeah. I'm gonna move up to fourth in about ten seconds."

"Ride neck 'n neck, man," Landon calls. "I'm waiting' for ya. Show me what you got!"

"Landon, no playing," Kirk warns. "Bring her in the pit, come on."

Landon ignores him as he sees Bret pull up beside him. "Wooee, pardner! You think you can get ahead of me?"

"Let him go," Kirk directs. "Sterling, take over."

Landon knew to trust Kirk, so he backs off. Bret starts to come around, but suddenly another car is whipping around in front of him. A curse slips out. "Where did he come from?! He just about took off my bumper, the idiot!"

"Keep it cool."

"I'm getting boxed in."

Landon looks around wildly. "Sterling, where'd you go?"

"Riding your tail, buddy. See if you can pull around this guy."

"Engine's getting hot. I missed my window. Kirk, I gotta come in before this baby gives out."

Kirk automatically nods. "We got time. Landon, bring her in. Sterling, take over."

"Right." Bret keeps his eyes ahead, his adrenaline pumping. "Come on, baby, come on."

Suddenly, the other car swerves. The driver tries to take back control, but in the process, he sideswipes Landon's car. Already overdue for a pitstop, Landon's car gives a lurch before a front tire blows. His frantic yell comes over the mic as he starts to spin out of control.

Kirk tries to direct them. "Whoa, whoa whoa, get out of there. Gun her to the middle! Sterling, watch it!"

Too late. In a moment of horror, Bret's eyes see Landon's spinning car directly in front of him. He tries to swerve, but another car to his right doesn't give. The brakes stop his tires, leaving smoking black marks on the track. Sweat runs down his face and his heart pounds in his head. He only has time to blink before impact. "Charlotte-"

A gut-wrenching collision sends both cars careening down the track. Landon's car skids down into the center, the engine suddenly exploding in a column of flame and smoke.

Bret's car rolls over and over and over. Another car hits him like a pinball machine, sending the car crashing over a short wall before finally coming to a stop.

"Landon! Sterling!" No response. Kirk throws off his headset and starts to move. The medic van was already on its way.

Wast Time

Still holding Jeff's hand Katie forced a smile to form on her face even if his eyes were closed she only wanted the good feels to flow and give Jeff the happy vibes.

"You, mean? Thats certainly not true. You have always been the funny one and the one to keep the smile, and hope alive for us all. Don't worry Uncle Jeff they are going to make you better. They have to."

Letting out a small quiet sigh Katie looks up as Rick comes up behind her laying a hand on her shoulder. Thinking for a long moment about his question Katie searchs her brain trying to think what her Uncle could of ment.

"A while ago he use to be sick all the time. It was just part of his normal day to day life. We use to make him cards and call him all the time. Uncle Jeff took some meds that helped make him more comfortable but I dont know what it was."

Katie looks back to Jeff as she runs a hand over the side of his face gently whipping away the beads of sweat.

"Than when the family all got there computer chips removed he got better. I...find out from Reese where Jeff was, and maybe we can find out what happened again."

Giving a shake of her head and a roll of her eyes Ryan throws a dirty rag at Leo before going back to what she was working on. The last few days had been busy and not much room for some fun time. Only real free time she had was with the racing she did, and thats where she saw Leo and the other most. But now she just wanted some one on one time...

...Looking up once again as Leo's voice was heard Ryan gave a half cocked smile as she set her tools down and crawled from under the car.

"You really dont wast any time do you?"

Taking the rag from her back pocket and whiping her hands off before laying it over the car Ryan looks to the other.

"Going out for lunch you guys want anything?"

Getting there requests or there deny for food Ryan looked back to Leo giving him a slight shove.

"Well lets go already we dont have all day you know, since your driving you pick where we eat."

Leaning back in his chair Dalton starred at his computer screen trying to figure out a program. He wished Scott was around so he could ask about it but no luck.

Hearing the phone ring he grabs it and answers it expecting it to be Reese or someone else needing something. But to his surprise the sweet sounding voice on the other end was not Reese. Relizing it was Dani a smile made its way to Dalton's face as he leans back a little more in his chair. Leaning a little to far back in the chair a sick cracking sound arises as the chair breaks slightly. Almost going head over heals with the chair Dalton regains balance and stands right.

"Whoa....ah...I mean...yes a walk. Lucky me...I mean yes I am lucky that you have...tomarrow I have tomarrow off. Yes! Place? Oh yes right...well I can pick you up tomarrow and I was thinking maybe we could go down to the lake and take a few trails there. Unless maybe you like someplace better?"

Charlotte can't help the excitement that races through her as she watches the race. She had been to many practices but now this was the real thing and there was just something differnt about it. The want to win, the excitment, the fans cheering it was all so much hype.

"Go babe, GO!!"

Looking up at Mick Rosetta's eyes were bloodshot. She wanted to go to her brother but thinking for a long moment she had been gone alot this month and had hardly seen BJ. Was it really fair to him?

"I want to go, but I have other obligations and I have been gone so much this month as it is BJ and you have hardly even seen me. Its not fair to you both."

Looking down at her hands Rosetta let out a long sigh. She was getting to old for this, and she new it. When would things be ok again.

Revving Engines

Jeff's fingers twitch a little, then curl lightly around Katie's hand. Though his eyes were closed, he knew it was her.

"I'm... too mean to die," he manages to whisper. He forces the corner of his mouth to upturn just a little. "I'll... be fine... I always am." His voice was dry and forced, his eys remaining closed. "It's just the same... same as it... it used to be."

Rick quirks an eyebrow and moves up behind Katie, laying a hand on her shoulder. "What does he mean the same as it used to be?"


Leo gives a jump as a quirky grin surfaces. "Half hour..." He looks at his clock. "You're in luck. You caught me at just the right time so I can pencil you into my terribly busy schedule."

Locking eyes with her, he can't help but laugh. "Okay so this was going to be the most boring day of my life. You're on, but I drive so we don't get a speeding ticket."

...Half an hour on the dot, and Leo is running up and skidding to a halt in front of Ryan. "Where we headed, oh, fast one?"


"Dani! Your phone is ringing!"

Dani turns and wipes her hands on the apron before going back into the kitchen. "I'll get it later. I gotta go get water to table three."

Carson moves to take her place. "Let me. I got a minute."

Dani sets her hands on her hips. "You sure are being nice today."

Carson shrugs lamely. "Maybe I'm sorry for yelling at you the other day."

"Really?" Dani looks to her brother hopefully. Being at odds with him had been the pits.

"Yeah." Carson grabs some glasses and the ice water pitcher. "I guess... I don't know. I know you were just trying to do what you thought was best."

For the moment, Dani ignores her phone. "I was stupid... but I just... what will happen to him, Carson? What will they do with Alec?"

"I don't know. That will depend on him. Right now, he isn't doing himself any favors with his attitude. If he shapes up, the Elite might be able to help him, but if not... he's just digging his own grave."

Dani sighs. "Yeah... I suppose." Still frowning a little, she goes to her purse that was hanging up. Fishing around for her phone, she finally finds it, then listens to her voicemail. Her frown is turned into a smile and a little giggle comes out at Dalton's message.

When Carson returns, she's still smiling. He quirks an eyebrow at her. "Something funny?"

"No... just a message from Dalton."

"Dalton?" Carson's expression intensifies. "As in the Elite agent?"

"Yes, so?"

"So... since when does he call my baby sister?"

Dani throws him a sly look. "Since your baby sister enjoyed lunch with him."

Carson blinks. "That's-" He can't finish, as he has to return to the stove, but he tosses a look over his shoulder. "Just be careful."

"Of course." Dani grins and dials the Elite number that was programmed into her phone. After reaching Susanne and being transfered, she waits until she hears Dalton's voice. "You're in luck. I have off work from the store, and Carson doesn't need me here until four. What time would you like that walk, and where?"


Bret chuckles as he gets in his car. "Mmm.... now that's a prize worth racing for."

"Hey, you two lovebirds gonna concentrate on this race?" Landon interrupts.

"Of course, of course." Bret shifts his concentration. "Right at your back door, buddy. Let's go."

The excitement builds. The crowd pulses with anticipation. The engines roar and suddenly all are in motion. The cars shoot forth from the starting line, gas pedals down, gears shifting, hearts pounding.

"Landon, watch number ten on your right, don't let him cut you off," Kirk warns into the mic. "Bret, what are you doing? Quit playing around or you're gonna lose your place."


Mick holds Rosetta close, his own heart aching. "I don't know... I don't know." A deep sigh comes out slowly. "Jason didn't give me any more details - I don't think he knew any more either. If you want someone from here to go... or... if you want to go yourself, I understand. Trent should still be in Nevada if you want to catch him before he leaves."

Phone Book

Shifting and giving a small smile to Jason Katie nods.

Thank you J.

Turning Katie makes her way back into the infermary. Her heart raced as she drew closer to her Uncle. He looked so small in the bed and it made her heart hurt. Katie had always been close to Jeff, and now it was sad to see him so weak.

Taking Jeff's hand gentily in her own Katie sits on the edge of the bed and runs a tumb over his hand.

"Oh Uncle Jeff...what happend."

Katie let out a sigh as a tear ran down her face.

"You have to be ok. You have to be."

Looking up as the wrench clattered to the floor Ryan looked up from where the engine to the car she was working on should of been. Listing just a little Ryan shakes her head. Axel's hand had been getting worse and she felt so bad for him but there was nothing she could do. The only that seemed to work was Jess' rubbing.

Seeing Leo start to walk by again Ryan looks up once more catching his eye. Giving a sideways smile she whispers and points to herself with her tool.

"You, me lunch half hour."

A frustrated slam comes from inside Dalton and Scott's office as a phone book was thrown at the wall with force.

"Come on come on where did I put it."

Continuing to look through his desk Dalton grew even more frustrated. The paper with the phone number was around here some where he new it.

Opening his desk draw a small peace of note paper stairs at him. Rolling his eyes the big man felt stupid and pulls it out.

Dialing the number Dalton couldnt help but feel a bit nervouse but is almost saddened when he gets Dan's voice mail.

"Hi Dani its Dalton. Sorry I didnt call sooner I lost your number. Yeah yeah I know thats what most guys say, but I have a phone book here who had a meeting with the wall that can say I really did. Anyways I was wondering if tomorrow you would like to go for that walk. I have off. Well just...call me back. Bye."

Hanging up the phone Dalton cant help but lean back in his chair a small smile on his face as he thinks about his lunch the day before.

Looking down at her husband Charlotte's lips turn up in a small grin as she talks into the mic.

"They could only be so lucky. You know I only have eyes for you."

Giving a small wave and a kiss into the air Charlotte's smile grows.

"Be safe out there and you get a nice long kiss."

Leaning into Mick slightly Rosetta always welcomed his comfort though this visit seemed to hold something differnt. Simply just by Mick's body language alone told her so. Rosetta couldnt help but prepair herself for the worst.

Hearing about Jeff a few tears spring into her eyes. Her brother, no why...why again? Turning to look at Mick Rosetta trys to blink away her tears.

"Do..they know whats wrong? Is it the same as before or...it couldnt be because when we took the chip out he was ok...I..."

Falling into Mick's arms a silent sobs comes forth. She was told old for this, this continue battle.

"Mick...whats happening to our family!"

Call

As Katie leans into him, Jason wraps his arms around her, trying to be a shelter. Despite their argument, she wanted him now and he would be there. He kisses the top of her head lightly.

"I'll call them for you."

Don't worry... he'll be okay. He's strong and will pull through.

Rick appears in the hall, just having stepped out from the infirmary. "Katie...?" His face is grim. "He's calm now if you want to see him... but I'm not sure how much time he has." Turning, he slips back into the room, looking at Jeff half-asleep in the bed, then at Misty. "I don't know what's wrong with him, Misty. It's kind of like his body is reacting to something... almost like an allergy, but it's so severe... I don't know what to do."

Jason gives Katie's shoulder a squeeze before nodding her to the infirmary. "Go on. Try to find out what happened. I'll call Texas."


Leo hears another wrench clatter and his eyes drift from the car he was working on, to the one at the other end of the shop. Axel was muttering to himself and looking around for the dropped tool. Thankfully, Darrell wasn't around today again.

Sighing, Leo moves from his car and wipes his hands on his rag, wandering over to Axel. "Need help?"

"No, I don't need help," Axel snaps. "Just..." He takes a deep breath. "Sorry. Just one of those days."

Leo looks to Axel's hand that was held to his side. "Did it finally happen?"

Axel stops working and closes his eyes, turning to lean back against the car. "Yeah." He lets out a sorry scoff. "It hurt this morning, but by the time I came down here, there was nothing. It's been numb for about five hours now."

He tosses aside the wrench he'd found. "If it doesn't improve by the end of the day, I might as well pack up my stuff."

"Well don't-"

"Have you ever seen a one-handed mechanic?" Axel shakes his head. "No, it's too late." Glancing around at the others in the shop who were busy working, he turns back around again. "Just don't tell anybody yet."

Leo shrugs. "Okay. What about Jess?"

"I'll... tell her. Soon."


"It's a great day for racing, ladies and gentlemen, as the breeze is cool on this eighty-degree day. Be sure to stop by the concession stands for some icy lemonade, and check out the racing shack where you can get your favorite hats, jackets and more. Take your seats, 'cause we'll be starting in just ten minutes..."

Bret zips up his jacket and tips his head to look out across the track to where the announcer was giving his spiel. It really was a perfect day, and they had a good turnout too. For a track that went against the flow and never got involved with the bigwigs or the racing hooplah, they were holding their own quite well.

"Yo man, you ready?" Landon slaps Bret's shoulders.

Bret grins. "Sure am."

"Good. 'Cause I heard Troy telling his buddies out there from Carterton that he was gonna take this one. Personally I think it'll be you."

"Or you."

"Naw... Maybe I never left, but you got the talent and you know it."

Bret pulls on his gloves, still grinning. "Maybe. See you out there." He points after his friend as Landon walks away. "Be safe."

"You too, bro."

The anticipation in the air was thick. Engines revved. People were mingling everywhere. From his spot on the track, Bret looked up above the stands to the box where Kirk was, along with several others from the crew, and Charlotte. "Hey babe." He grins, while speaking into the mic in his helmet. "No flirting with the guys while I'm down here."


Mick hangs up the phone in the house and just stares at it for a moment. This didn't sound good.

He moves slowly to go back outside. So much had happened already. He hadn't wanted to think that Rosetta's bad feelings were realistic, but now he knew they were.

He'd just come inside to get something to drink and happened to hear the phone ring while he was there. The conversation with Jason had been brief. Walking to the barn, he looks around for his wife.

"Mick?" Eric looks up from his seat on a bale of hay. "What's wrong?"

Mick shakes his head. "Later. Seen your sister?"

"Um... yeah, I think she's down with one of the foals."

"Thanks." Mick continues his route down to the larger stalls. Hearing Rosetta's voice, he smiles and slides open the stall door to join her. The little chestnut filly looks at him curiously and swishes her tail. Toddling over to him, she sticks her nose out to sniff his hand.

Mick grins and lets her nuzzle his palm, then suck his fingers. It would be a while before she had teeth. She moves from his fingers then sniffs his pocket with interest.

"Naw," he croons, nudging her back to his mother. "You'll get to find out what an apple is once you got something to chew it with."

Sighing deeply, he then moves to Rosetta, pulling her into a hug. "Hey." Drawing away a little, he looks into her eyes, knowing that she could sense his seriousness. "Jeff's at TJY. He went to Katie's... he's sick... really sick."

Could you

Bringing her lips to the lemonade straw Sapphire figured Gage probley never had anything like this to drink and was confirmed by the look on his face. Taking her own sip Sapphire's eyes squint as the lemonade hits her own tastes. Finally as the sour pass, Sapphire smiles at Gage. Seeing his own small smile, and the glisson in his eyes please her to know there was a tiny bit of happiness she put there.

"I am happy you like it. Once you get past the lip puckering sour tast its not bad. I think this is one of my fav drinks on a nice hot day."

Nodding twords the path again Sapphire walks with Gage as they both sip there drinks. The silence ruled for the moment but she didnt mind. It looked like Gage was taking everything in and that was a good thing to get him use to the normal world.

Katie finally opens her eyes and looks at Jason. Her own searching his looking deep into them, searching for the comfort she needed.

He came to my house after Ryder and Thirteen left. I dont know where he has been. I new he was sick as soon as I saw him and I brought him here as soon as I could.

Taking a few steps closer Katie leans into Jason feeling his warmth. She wished she could do more for her uncle be she didnt know what. She still had to call her Aunt, but how could she break the new to her. It was always just one thing after another with there family.

" Can you call my Aunt or Mick for me? I am to upset. My place is here so when they are done with Jeff I can be close."

Pucker

Jeff? But... how? What's he doing here? I thought...

Jason lets his unspoken words trail off, seeing the worry in Katie's eyes. "I'm sorry."

Remembering that morning's spat, he awkwardly lets his hands slide off her shoulders, not even knowing if she wanted him near right now. "Is there anything I can do?"


"Lemonade?" Gage blinks and looks to the stand that was selling drinks. He'd always just drank water, since he could remember. He knew all the others he worked with had drank things like soda pop or beer, but he'd always been told he needed to stay away from those things. "Um..." He was free from the Agency now... and he did want to try this... "O... Okay. Yeah."

Waiting for Sapphire to get their drinks, he stands a bit awkwardly, his eyes forever roaming the park, always on guard.

Once Sapphire is handing him his drink, he looks a the straw for a moment, skeptically. Finally he takes a sip. His lips pucker and his left eye squints as the sweet and sour collide on his taste buds. Blinking, he looks at Sapphire with a bit of surprise. He hadn't quite expected that. But something made him want more. He takes another sip. This time it went down more smoothly.

Looking to Sapphire again, a faint smile just quirks the corner of his mouth as his eyes show pleasure. "I like it."

Lemon

Not even bothing to open her eyes Katie new who was drawing close, than feeling Jason's hand confirmed it. It had always been like that, and she liked it, but soon she wouldn't have it anymore. Soon, it would be like when she was taken. It would be quiet, lonly and not the same.

Katie still felt a bit strange with what her and Jason had talked about early was still lingering but now it was replaced with a new worry.

Its Jeff, he's sick again and I am really worried about him. He didnt look good at all.

Starting to walk the way Gage had pointed out Sapphire takes in everything around them. It had turned out to be a nice day after all. Keeping her arm linked lightly with Gage Sapphire was enjoying there time.

Walking a few more steps Sapphire thinks about Gage's question. Continuing to walk she looks at him from the courner of her eye.

"Yes, here we have men and women who work together. We actully are able to do many things together. It a good way to interact and many things there are things a woman cant do than a man can, and things a man cant and a woman can, so it helps when those problems come up."

Continuing to walka little ways more Sapphire finally sees a place to stop and grab something to drink.

"Would you like something cold to drink? Lemonaid?"

Men and women

Jason looks up from his desk, feeling a strange sensation. It was one her recognized, but one that he always dreaded.

Getting up quickly, he exits into the hall, looking both ways, he sees Katie. The last they'd spoken, she had walked away. No words had been exchanged since earlier when they'd argued about their connection. But that didn't mean he wouldn't go to her now.

Approaching cautiously and with worry, Jason places his hands on Katie's shoulders, looking her in the eye. "What's wrong? What happened?"


As Sapphire links arms with Gage, he almost flinches. He wasn't used to being touched unless he was being grabbed to throw somewhere. "Um..." He looks left and right, not knowing which way would be better. "I guess... this way?" He points to the path that would lead around the pond.

As they walk slowly, he glances down to Sapphire. "In the Agency, a lot of times, they wouldn't let men and women work together. It's... different here?"

This or that

Smiling as Gage takes her hand, Sapphire takes note to how his own hands felt slightly soft. "Thank you."

As Gage turns, Sapphire can feel his awkwardness. Coming up alongside him, she links arms with him. "We can go this way or that way."

Soft

Gage squints at Sapphire's hand for a moment, almost as if he was confused about the gesture. "Free." The word felt so foreign. He hesitates, but finally comes around the car and takes Sapphire's hand. He hadn't realized how cold his own hands were until he felt her warmth. He flinches, then looks up to see her eyes. "Sorry. You're just... soft." His face reddens and he turns, putting his hands in his pockets. "Um... this way?"

Hole with water

Standing again, Sapphire thinks for a moment. "It feels like free." She didn't know how else to describe it. "Come on, lets walk so you can see how it feels." She holds her hand out to Gage.


Thirteen thinks for a long moment before looking at Ryder as she quirks an eyebrow. "Swimming pool... that's the hole with water in it, right?"


Standing over Jeff, Katie tries her best to stay calm. "I'm here, it's okay. It's gonna be okay." Stepping back to let Misty in, Katie can't help but be scared. Looking around the room, she knows it's time to go. Stepping outside of the room, she leans against the wall and closes her eyes, a few tears forming. She needed to call her aunt, but she needed to calm down first.

Can't beat

Jeff is still shaking, and tries to bring Katie's face into focus. "You're... you're okay..." He winces as more pain shoots through him.

Rick tries to hold him down, but struggles to examine him. "Misty, get over here, please. I think he's going into shock."

Jeff continues to writhe. "Katie... they took... took you."

"Easy," Rick soothes. "Calm down, Jeff. Everyone is fine."

Feeling the sting of a shot, Jeff's muscles start to relax. But his hand finds Katie's, wrapping his cold fingers around hers. "They're coming," he whispers. "They'll... they'll come..."

Rick pauses his work, hearing Jeff's words. "Who? Who's coming?"

Jeff's eyes roll back.

"No...no..." Rick moves more quickly. "Katie, hon, go wait outside. You might want to call your aunt - this doesn't look good."


Ryder laughs as he tastes some ice cream too. "It's supposed to be cold - that's half the fun. On a hot summer day, when all you want is something sweet to cool ya down... mmm." He sucks on a spoonful of peach ice cream. "You can't beat ice cream... unless it's a swimming pool."


Gage stands on the other side of the car and looks around the park. The sun was warm today. One would think from his expression that he wasn't paying any attention. But he was. "What's it like to... walk, just to walk?" His eyes roam towards the path that goes around the pond.

Strawberry

Following close, Katie tries her best to keep her eyes on her Uncle. Keeping quiet all the way, she opens the doors then falls behind once again.

Finally getting into the infirmary, Katie's worry grows. Hearing Jeff ask for her, she goes to him, making sure it was her good side, keeping her scarred side away from him. "I'm here, Uncle Jeff. I'm okay."


Looking at the little cups, Thirteen tries to decide. They all looked so good. Taking one of the little spoons, she tries some of the sherbet. Making a strange face, she didn't like the sour taste. Taking a few more flavors, she lands on one she likes. "I like the strawberry one. It's very cold though. My tongue feels numb."


Opening the car door, Sapphire motions for Gage to get out of the car. "Well, I like to go for walks. I read, spend time with people I know, go to fairs... Pretty much anything that is fun."

Leaning on the hood of the car, Sapphire looks up at the sky before looking back at Gage. "We can do anything you want."

There's more?

"Well what..." Gage looks out the window around the park. "I mean... what do you do when you're not working? Like... I mean..." He felt stupid. He felt so far out of his element. "All I know is going out... doing what I'm told... getting up at five and eating cereal for breakfast." He scoffs. "There's more, isn't there? There's more that I was never allowed to do, isn't there?"


Okay, here we go." Ryder gestures across the spread of ice cream flavor samples. He and Thirteen sat at the little table in the mall shop. It had taken some doing, but he'd finally convinced someone to give them all the little cups. "We got strawberry, chocolate chip, mint, peach, caramel, sherbet... and I forgot what these others are." Ryder laughs. "Take your pick. I'm partial to peach."


Jeff doubles over in the passenger seat, his eyes glazed as he continues to shake. "K...Katie... careful.. they'll... they'll come." His eyes start to roll back in his head.

Reese's eyes go wide as he listens on the phone. "Katie? Jeff? What.. um... okay... right." Hanging up, he immediately calls Rick.

By the time Katie can reach TJY, both Rick and Reese are outside waiting. Getting the passenger door open, Rick has to catch Jeff before he falls out of the car. "My word... Jeff? Jeff can you hear me?"

Jeff seems to mumble something, but that's it.

Rick moves quickly. "Reese, take his other side. Katie, got the door for us."

Within minutes, they're in TJY, headed for the infirmary. Jeff's feet drag and he continues to mumble. "Katie... make sure she's... okay... Katie..." He collapses on the infirmary bed, trying to focus on the lights, Misty, and the other faces. "Katie???"

Something is wrong

Starting the car and pulling out of the parking lot, Sapphire heads down the road and is quiet for a long moment before answering. "Yep, we come, work, go home and then repeat. now you get to as well, when someone is with you."

Pulling into the park, she stops the car. "When you're ready, you will get to go alone, too."


Hearing something at the door, Katie goes to check. Opening it, her eyes widen. "Uncle Jeff!" Stepping outside the door, she bends down to him, checking him over. Seeing he was not okay, she runs back inside and grabs her phone and keys. Getting back outside, Katie struggles a little getting Jeff in the car and then drives off.

Dialing on her phone, she waits until she hears someone on the other end. "Reese, it's Katie. I got Jeff. Something is wrong with him. Have someone meet me outside."

Come and go

"I..." Gage watches Sapphire leave, then follows lamely. Walking after her, he makes it outside and to the car, squinting in the light. Only once they're headed down the road does he speak again. "So... like... you can come and go as you please?"


Ryder slings an arm around Thirteen's shoulders and aims her for the ice cream. "Alright, melady. What flavor shall it be today?"


Pain shoots through Jeff's body and he doubles over, stumbling onto the porch. Sweat pours down, soaking his shirt as he shakes with the cold chill of a raging fever.

Gasping for breath, he crawls to the door on all fours, his arms and legs shaking. Barely making it, he can just reach the doorbell before collapsing into a heap. Closing his eyes, he whispers, "Katie..."