Run

Wendy can't help the soft giggle as she looks at her two gifts she was givin. Once a child, now a woman with a family a big step to take that was scary but had now happend.

Looking back into Clint's eyes Wendy's own give a twinkle. How good Clint's words made her feel, she was loved, and she would be loved more in the days to come.

"And I am proud of you as well Clint. We might now have went about this the right way, but thank you."

Giving him a soft kiss that lasted a few moments Wendy backed away a little before looking at the twins again. Running through the names they had deiced they liked Wendy thinks for a long moment before looking back at Clint wit question.

"How about Cecilia and Chase?"

It was strange to feel Dani touch him. Not bad, but strange non the less. It wasn't just every day someone felt comfortable enough to get close to him let alone touch him.

Giving a chuckle as he continues to help Dani clean up. Once finished and standing Dalton gives a stretch. He's started to get cramped sitting on the ground for so long but he never once let on to it. He was having way to nice of a time.

Seeing Dani starting to run Dalton gives a shake of his hand as her calls after her.

"I'll give you a head start."

Finally as Dani is about half away across the first Dalton start to run. With in minutes Dalton has caught up with Dani and now keep a steady pace with her not going a head but not going behind eather.

"Your a pretty good runner. Now your going to be all tuckered out to want to walk. I'll have to carry you."

Gentily Dalton takes Dani around the wast and in a quick movement Dalton twist and Dani was now on his back as he continues to run. She hardly weighed anything and it was almost like he wasn't carrying anything at all.

"Hold on tight so you don't fall off. I don't need that brother of yours coming after me."

Though he was gentile not to hurt Dani as all he kept his pace the same not slowing down for a moment. He was full of energy himself, an energy he hadnt felt in a long time and it felt good.

Smiling down at Bret Charlotte continues to hold his hand gentily as she sat on the edge of the bed. The feelings welling inside of her. He was awake, he was alive thats what mattered to Charlotte right now.

"Your going to be ok Sweety. You gave me quite a scare, but your alive and thats what matters."

Continuing to gaze at Bret Charlotte thought now was a good time as ever to let him know about there baby. He had almost died, and if he had and never new that would of been horrable. Going to talk once again Charlotte stops as Bret asks about the numbness. Know right now this was more important Charlotte's new will wait for now. She would have much more time to tell him later.

"I'm not sure..."

Charlotte informs as she stands up from the bed.

"...give me a second and I will get a Dr. I'll be right back."

Good or bad

Clint moves their baby girl just one more time to lay her in the blankets next to her brother on Wendy. Easing down next to his wife so his head is close to hers, he stares at their newborns. There was no way he could even begin to describe the emotions that were flooding his soul.

His hand reaches over to touch his son who was sleeping now. "He's gonna be like me," he muses. "Can't wake up without a shot of coffee."

Looking at his daughter again, there's something different about her... she was different than her brother. Perhaps it had been the experience of seemingly lost life, then return to them. Somewhere deep down, Clint wondered if the joy was permanent or not.

"Names..." He moves his head to kiss Wendy's cheek. She was so brave and he loved her oh so much. This whole thing hadn't started out right and she was the one that had to deal with the pain now... but she'd done it. "I'm proud you're my wife," he whispers.

Focusing his eyes on the babies again, his mind marvels, making it hard to think of anything else. Names... names. He and Wendy had tried to come up with names before, but hadn't decided on anything yet. "I have no idea." A little laugh surfaces. "I don't think I have any idea about anything today though."


Dani laughs at Dalton's repeated suggestion that she roll him down the trail. His offer to work around her silly phobia made her feel so good and his teasing lightened the mood.

"I don't know..." She reaches over and nudges his arm, finding it firmly muscular. "I think I might have to go get my brothers ropes and pullies if I'm gonna move you anywhere."

Finishing up her potato salad, she helps clean things up until everything was packed and returned to the car. "Okay..." She looks around to the far end of the parking lot where the trail began. Though she had just eaten, her energy was high. "Race you to the trail," she challenges, without really knowing why. She was a fast sprinter, but Dalton's legs were much longer than hers and she hardly stood a chance.


Bret scrunches his eyes shut, then opens them again, trying to focus. Finally seeing Charlotte, a faint smile quirks just the corner of his mouth. "Hey, babe." His voice was weak and quiet, but he was awake.

His fingers curl around hers. Still trying to focus, his mind is invaded by flashes of the racetrack and the crash. The pictures didn't want to leave, they just kept flashing over and over. Finally he closes his eyes again, swallowing hard. He knew what had happened and he knew he must be in the hospital. How long he'd been, he didn't know. "My right side is... numb," he mumbles. "Is that a good thing or a bad thing?"

Phobia

Seeing Clint enter the room and seeing the tiny bundle he carryed that was crying a smile formed on her face. Knowing that Clint would want to be alone with Wendy she stands and exits the room to join the others and chat.

Looking up at Clint and than to his arms her own emotions went haywire. Was this really happening and was there second baby really alive now?

As Clint comes closer and Wendy can see the small face of her baby girl and a smile forms on her own. Gentily running over the small baby's head before looking back up at Clint. Life had been made in the wrong way, but now something wonderful had come out of it and though at times Wendy wished she could of taken it back and done it the right way she was thankful for this moment now.

Leaning into Clint just a little bit Wendy gives him a small kiss on the head. Her voice was weak from everything that had happend in the matter of hours but she wasnt ready to sleep.

"I love you too. We have to think of names now."

"Claustrophobic huh? Maybe I should get a bigger car?"

Dalton teased slightly as his eyes gave a little sparkle to let Dani know though he was poking fun it was not to be mean. In a way he was kind of releaved that it was something like that than what he originally thought, and in a way he kind of understood.

"Well I think I can deal with you phobia. I can also promise you that if you need the windows down let me know, and if you even need me to stop the car just let me know. Its something to deal with, but to spend more time with you I think its worth it."

Dalton gave a little smile to Dani as he finished off his food and the rest of his drink. Taking his left over garbage and putting it into the trash bag that had been provided. Looking around again and than back to Dani he studys her for a long moment. She was different from other people he new and other women he had known. She didn't seem to be scared to be seen with him and he liked that. It felt good on the inside.

"Well, whenever your done eating we can start that walk. I still think you should roll me though."

Feeling the movement on the bed Charlotte looks up quick. Seeing Bret awake she moves quickly to sit on the edge of the bed.

"I'm here Bret, I'm right here."

Gentily taking his one hand in her own and bring the other to his face to gently stroke it being careful of the cuts and bruises. A smile and a tear filled Charlotte's eye. He was awake, Bret was really awake. That was a start and it felt so good to know her husband was with them again.

Emotions

For a moment, Clint thought for sure that he was caught in some horrible dream that was taunting him with a hope he didn't dare grasp on to. He blinks as Angel takes the baby to check her over, and he looks to his mom then to the others in total confusion.

When the baby is handed back to him, he stares down at her as her eyes open into tiny slits. He could believe it, and for a moment, he just stand there dumbly, not even knowing what to do. He hears voices around him, someone was speaking to him, maybe his mom, but it all just muddled together and he didn't understand any of it. All he understood was the open door that led to his wife.

Entering slowly, he sees Rosetta, then Wendy. Stopping a the foot of the bed, he held the crying baby in his arms and just looked at Wendy, his eyes brimming with a multitude of emotions. He didn't know how to feel or what to feel. All he could do was just be here.

Moving to the side of the bed, he eases down to sit next to Wendy and gaze upon the tiny face of his son. A boy and a girl.

Gently resting the baby down into a place for her beside the bed, he reaches out to take Wendy's hand, bringing it up to his lips. "I love you," he whispers.

Test of Strength

Just looking at the bundle that Clint was handing back to her Angel doesn't take it right away. Her own hear hurt, her grandchild had been so pretty and so see her slip away was one of the hardest things.

"Wendy, and your son are going to be ok."

Angle's words were soft and short, the graving taking its toll but how proud of Clint she was, and how this young boy had turned into a man. She new Wendy and Clint would be ok but it would be a long hard road now.

And sometimes by the grace of God he tests our strength in him and the strength in ourselves. He dosnt tell use why, and he doesn't give us the reason but it happens. Than in the end, he will give back, his promise to us.

Reaching to take the small bundle back a cry sounds. Jumping just a little Angel looks to Clint and than takes the bundle from him. Looking down into the little face that starred back at her as the mouth open and closed making its voice sound. Checking the baby over quickly to make sure it was ok it was almost like nothing was wrong.

Angel didn't know what to say, she didn't know why or how..but this right here had been a miracle from God himself.

Looking up at Clint again the sock shone in her eyes as she handed the bundle back to Clint again no words were said as she went to step out of the way and let Clint see Wendy.

Sitting in the bed tears stream down Wendy's face as she held the small baby. She was happy and sad at the same time, It was such a horrible feeling.

But breaking up her soft sobs another louder cry was heard and Wendy looked up confused before looking down at the baby in her arms. Its little fist was curled and had found its way to his mouth it wasnt his crys that were heard, but another. Looking to Rosetta Wendy was confused.

A man

Bret has been sleeping quietly all day. The nurses and doctors have been in and out. Friends have come to visit. Even Landon has come in and out a time or two while he still had to stay there another day.

At one in the afternoon, Bret starts to move, writhing slightly and shifting his head, seeming to be in pain. The medication is increased and he quiets again until an hour later when he groans, his head twisting until finally his eyes open. He blinks in the soft light, everything foggy and blurry. He tries to move but stops as pain shoots through his body. He groans and sinks his head further into his pillow until trying to open his eyes again. "Ch... Charlotte? ...Charlotte?"


Dani pauses her chewing and looks up to Dalton again, as if confused. Then her eyes widen. "Ohhh... no..." She giggles, clearly embarrassed. "No, I didn't mean that, goodness, no." She shakes her head and rolls her eyes. "It was the car, not the guy see...." She scrunches up her nose, not used to talking about it, but she didn't seem to mind with Dalton.

"See... I'm a bit claustrophobic. Not with every small space but... sometimes I get these panic attacks. And... so I went out with this guy once and he had a little car and the windows didn't work so I couldn't roll them down so I sorta freaked out on him." Dani squints a little, still feeling the embarrassment. "When I told him to stop and let me out he thought I was scared of him, so he tried to talk me down, but that just made it worse and I started screaming at him. He finally pulled over and let me out but then he told other people that I was the freak because I was petrified of him and it well... yeah. I was totally embarrassed and I vowed never to let it happen again." She shrugs lamely. "I... I'm okay like, in my own car and stuff 'cause I can put the windows down whenever I need to or stop for a breather, but usually if I'm familiar with the small space it doesn't bother me. So...." She tosses Dalton a grin. "I guess if you want to drive me somewhere, I'll just have to get used to your car."


Carson leans back close, touching Misty's nose with his own. "Always extra whipped cream for you."

As a crash is heard in the kitchen, he doesn't flinch, but keeps the smile on his face, though the twinkle fads. "Okay. That was a pan that I placed on the edge of the counter. I have to go clean up. I'll also get your food."

Swinging back around, he slips back into the kitchen to quickly clean up the mess.


Clint paces up and down and up and down. He looks at Wes, talks to Mick, plays with BJ, then paces some more. Why didn't he know anything? Why didn't Angel want him in the room? He didn't understand. He just wanted to see Wendy. Everything would be fine... everything would be fine.

"Hey."

He jumps, feeling his father's hand on his arm. "Huh?"

"Sit down." Jim grins at him. "Come on. She's not the only woman who's gone through this. You might as well just take a deep breath and wait it out."

Clint smirks at him. "Is that what you did when I was born?"

"Are you kidding?" Jim scoffs. "I was a mess."

Clint can't help his laugh and he shakes his head. "Some help you are."

"It'll be fine." Jim pats his son's shoulder.

"Yeah, yeah." Clint obeys and sits for a while, looking out the window. His mother came by, joining the other women, then leaving again to fix lunch, then coming back again. She gave Clint reassurance.

For the first time, Clint wished his sister was around. But she was away, visiting a friend at a college...

His thoughts snap to attention as suddenly there's a cry of a baby. Clint's heart leaps into his throat, and for a moment, he stops breathing. He steps towards the room, waiting for the door to open. Waiting to hear a second set of cries. Could he go in? Did he have to wait? Why weren't they coming for him? He fidgets nervously. That was his child crying.... his child... He turns around, catching his father's eye. He was a dad. He was scared, excited, confused, thrilled. He turns back to the door, unable to voice anything he was feeling.

The others around him leave him be, even though hearts leaped with joy and they wanted to embrace him. He needed his space until he was ready for the congratulations.

But the quiet grows on. Clint's excitement is taken over with a new worry. What was happening?

Then Angel appears. As soon as he sees her face, his gut twists to the point that he almost doubles over. The little blanket was pink... but it did not move. Clint could hear the soft cries still in the room... but none came from the bundle in Angel's arms. He knew before she even apologized.

His breath catches in his throat as his eyes glaze, feeling as though hot coals were being pressed to them. He doesn't dare look over his shoulder to the others.

Instead, he steps forward, looking down into Angel's arms. Finally, a tear runs down the side of his face as his lower lip trembles. He felt sick to his stomach, but swallows the urge to turn and retch.

In awe and sorrow, he reaches down to touch the soft hair, running his finger over the tender babe's head... his daughter's head. His heart had just been ripped in two like never before. He had been so scared of being a father... so hesitant... so reluctant even at times. There had been days when all he wanted was to go back in time and not do what he'd done so that he and Wendy wouldn't have to face a family so young. But all of those feelings had vanished.

In a matter of seconds, a boy is transformed into a man... and he would never return.

Gritting his teeth to control his emotions, Clint holds out his arms, wanting to hold her, just once. Another tear slips out to join the first in the trail down his face. Holding the babe to his chest, he touches her head again... her little nose... her tiny fingers. But all was still... the living warmth was absent.

An arm slips around his shoulders. It was his mom. "Oh Clint..." Her voice wavers as silent tears stream down her cheeks. "I am so sorry."

Clint slowly turns around, seeing the others. BJ was gone from the room - someone had ushered him out. Clint's eyes catch his father's for a moment but no words were exchanged. Finally he turns back to Angel, almost reluctant to hand the little bundle back to her, but he does. "Wendy?" His voice cracks and he swallows hard. "The other baby?"

Time ticks by...

Starting to eat Dalton takes in everything around him letting Dani talk. He enjoyed listing to her the sound of her voice was soft and soothing. Taking short breaks from his food here and there he adds his two cents in getting to know Dani better and letting her know him.

Taking another spoonfull of her potato salad her felt like he was in heaven as he listened to Dani talk once again this time offering her apologies for this morning. Getting the bref explanation Dalton gives a nod thinking he understood a little more.

"Oh, I'm sorry that happend. I can understand now why you didnt want to drive with me. You hardly know me, and I can be pretty intimanating at time. I think my size alone scairs people let alone my scars."

Dalton trys to give his best smile as he takes a sip of his ice tea. He could only hope Dani felt comfortable now with him. His size might be great, but unless you gave him a reason he would never hurt a fly.

Receving the kiss Misty returns it as everything melts around her once again. The emotions, the feelings washing over her. Everything seemed differnt now but it was a different she liked.

Leaning her head against Carson as the moment ends a grin formed on her face.

"The pizza is...so so.."

Sticking out her toung a little bit the humor danced in her eyes as she razed Carson.

Giving a quick look around the dinner Misty looks back to Carson the look in her eye she was now thinking. Lunch, lunch what did she want for lunch?

"How about a slice of that fine pizza your taking about and a vanilla milkshake extra whip cream?"

Time ticks by...

For some the time seemed to inch as hours went by. The anticipation ran high in the room as as Wes sat with BJ out in the waiting room as Rosetta was in with Angel.

Time ticks by...

Angle had asked Clint to wait out in the waiting area with Wes, BJ and a few others. Wendy was having a hard time and Angel thought it was best.

Time ticks by...

Finally in the still silence where one could hear a pin drop the cry of a baby rings out loud and clear. Anticipation runs high the excitment of a new life into the world, and the next that was to follow. Waiting for the second cry to ring out nothing comes, the silence continues. So they wait on as the time pass and still nothing...all waiting...all hoping.

Time ticks by...

Finally the door to the office opens and Angel steps out holding a small still bundle in her arms. The top of the baby's head poking through the blanke. Strawberry blond wisps of hair moving softly with the air. Tears streak her own face as her eyes held mixed emotions.

"I'm so sorry Clint. I did all I could."

The baby lay quiet and peaceful as Angel held it not sure if Clint would want to see his daughter before she put in the call or not.

Twins are having

Luke was awake from hearing the phone ring, and receiving Angel's wakeup call, he groans into his pillow. "Don't call me that," he grumbles. "It makes me feel old."

Shifting his face so he can see her, he's smiling though. "Have fun. I'll join you soon as I can get this old body out of bed."


Clint gives Wendy a sheepish look before helping her out of the bunkhouse, slowly down the drive, across and to the ranch's small medical building.

Opening the door and helping her inside, he calls to Angel. "Honey, we're home!" Once they're with Angel, he goes for the phone. "Hi, Mom... yeah, yeah, the twins are having - no, I mean, Wendy's having the twins. Yeah we're over here. Okay bye."

Hanging up, he's right back by Wendy's side, his face showing a mixture of excitement and terror.


Dani's smile widens as a look of pleasure crosses her face. "You know, all the other guys who ever wanted to go out with me wouldn't think twice about just diving in. I like that about you, Dalton. I'd be happy to pray for the meal."

As lunch continues, light conversation is picked up. Dani's eyes roam the lake, the beach, the trees, and back towards Dalton's car. As there is a pause in conversation, she feels a pang of guilt. Dalton was one of the sweetest men she knew. She felt right at ease with him, and her instincts said she could trust him. "Hey, Dalton... sorry about earlier. I, um... I know I sorta disappointed you about not riding down here with you."

Her face reddens a little and she eats another chip. "I had a bad experience once and I sorta let it get the best of me sometimes."


Carson looks out from the kitchen and spots Misty. A grin spreads on his face and he ambles over to her, wiping his hands on his apron. Leaning across the counter, he takes her into a kiss, not caring about who's watching.

Drawing back, his grin is still there. "I would hope you like it here because of the cook. But we do have good pizza too."

He straightens up and nods to a nearby customer before his attention goes back to Misty. "So... what'll it be today, Missy?"

Grace

Wendy cant help but bring a hand to her lips as she gives a little giggle between her own pain. Clint was trying to hard she could tell and for that she was thankful.

"Oh watch out, I dont need you in the hospital the same time I am."

Finally getting up with Clint's help Wendy is on her way.

Receiving the phone call Angel jumps up out of bed looking over at Luke. Getting a grin on her face she gently shakes him.

"Hey Grandpa its time to wake up we got some baby's on the way."

Gathering her cloths and hopping into the shower she makes quick of it knowing Wendy and Clint where on there way. Once done she gives Luke a kiss and than heads over to the office getting things preped and ready for the two new members on the family.

Giving his own deep chuckle Dani had saprised him with everything she brought but she did good in what she choose.

"You've seen the size of me right? I dont think there is much I wont eat. How ever you did pick some of my fav food."

Continuing to help, make the sandwiches, and dish out the rest of the food Dalton looks around the nice beach. He was happy the clouds were staying away for now. He didnt want this to end to soon because it was nice to have someone to shair time with.

"I think we are gonna need to walk off all this food or at least you can roll me."

Taking glass from his head Dalton folds them and puts them at the corner of the blanket making sure they stayed out of the way. Sitting up a little straghter he folds his hands in his lap before eating and turns to Dani with as soft of a smile he can muster.

"Would you do the honors of saying grace?"

Entering Mom and Pop's Misty makes her way over the counter and gives a small wave to Aerith. Sitting down in one of the stools she gives a little wave to let Aerith know she was ok for now and to help her other customers. Turning her head a little to catch Carson's attachen she teases.

"So, I heard somewhere this is the best place in town to eat but not because of the food but because of the cook? But they do also say the pizza is the best ever."

Lets go

Still in a fog, Clint frowns. "Children.... wha.... oh..." His eyes grow wide. "Ohh.... ohhhh!" Now he understood. "Right, like now? Like now, now?"

Spinning around on the bed, he sees Wendy and he knows. His eye still wide, he stands up quickly. "Uhh.... your mom." He nods. "I'll help you. She said it would be better in the doctor's office so... yes..."

He blinks and steps around the corner of the bed. Like he did almost every time he took the corner, he catches his foot on the leg. But this time he does more than just stub his toe. Hitting the leg of the bed, his ankle twists around, his foot seeming to grab hold of the bed, sending him to a sudden halt. The rest of his body doesn't stop though, and with a little cry, he crashes between the table and the bed, gaining some rugburn on the elbows and all.

Groaning, he picks himself up and shakes his head. "Yeah that ought to wake me up..." Crawling over to Wendy's side of the bed, he fumbles for the phone, having to dial three times before getting the short number right. "Angel? I'm bringing Wendy over, if I don't kill myself first. I think she's going into labor." He doesn't even let his mother-in-law respond as he hangs up the phone.

Managing to get to his feet, he's finally awake and reaches down to help Wendy to her feet. "Okay... you ready? I'm ready. You ready? Let's go."


Jason smirks as he rounds the corner and ambles up to Katie. "Yes. I took a wrong turn twice and had to ask Rick for directions. It was very humiliating."

He slings an arm over her shoulders and teasingly pulls her through the door and into the elevator. "I'm starving. Rick would kill me if he knew I'd skipped breakfast."


Dani wears a pleasant smile, getting everything set up with Dalton. "Well... I brought fixings to make turkey sandwiches..." She giggles. "I wasn't sure what you liked so I brought way too much, but at least we have choices for cheese and bread and spreads. And..." She pulls out a plastic bowl with a lid. "We have my famous potato salad, or...." She pulls out a smaller bowl. "Pasta salad and... some chips if you want them and.... I brought some bottles of water or iced tea because I didn't know what you liked to drink either. You'd think I would have remembered to ask on the phone but yeah... my brain sometimes."

Getting everything out of the basket, Dani takes a rubberband from her wrist, pulling her hair back into a quick ponytail. "Mmm... you picked a perfect spot," she muses. It was warm, but not too hot as a light breeze blew. "I'm gonna have to be careful not to get too comfortable or I won't want to go for that walk."

Menu

Looking at her husband Wendy gives a blink before she shakes her head and a small giggle comes from her lips before she winces in pain agan.

"Both your children are not going to wait any longer thats who you goof. I need my mom, or you need to take me to my mom."

Wendy trys to stand again but cant. The pain from the contractions was to much not to mention the size of her belly from two babys made her a little more heavy.

Letting out a small sigh Katie gathers some of her things into neat piles so when she returned they would be waiting for her.

Standing Katie makes her way to the door to wait for Jason. Not seeing him anywhere in sight she razzes him.

Get lost did you? Because I know its a long way from your office to the front door.

Walking with Dani over the sandy beach Dalton is quiet. Looking for a nice spot that looked to be dry and have a nice view.

"How about here?"

Dalton asked as he sets down the blanket he had been carrying. Helping Dani onto it he lets her sit down first before sitting down next to her his legs spread out in front of him.

Reaching into the basket Dalton gentily help Dani take some of the things out and set everything up for them. Giving a small smile he questions.

"So what is on the menu for today?"

You pick

Dani's smile remains and she turns to her car. "Great. I'll follow you."

It doesn't take long for them to get to the lake. The weather was nice and the traffic was light. Pulling into the parking lot, Dani parks next to Dalton's car and gets out, scanning the area. They had this corner all to themselves.

"Looks like everyone was afraid of those clouds rolling in!" she calls to him.

Ducking into the back seat, she grabs the basket with lunch in it and shuts and locks her door. Ambling onto the grass, she hefts the basket on her hip, not having realized she packed such a heavy load. "You get to pick where we sit." She grins, scanning the sandy lake beach.


Jason grins as he types.
For you? I'm ready all the time. Meet you at the door.


Clint yawns as he laces up his works boots, sitting on the edge of the bed. He'd had a restless night between being hot, rubbing Wendy's back for her, and having bizarre dreams whenever he closed his eyes.

His mind was in a fog this morning, not yet having had a good dose of coffee to wake him up. He barely hears Wendy.

"Mm hmm..." he answers groggily. "Who's not gonna wait, babe?"

Not gonna wait

A small glint of disappointment shows in Dalton's eyes as Dani mention's take her own car. He couldnt help but feel disppointed he was hoping they would rid together to have more time but what could he do.

"Well I was hoping we could ride together but...I guess...I guess it would be fine. Not like I can stop you anyways."

Giving a nod Dalton turns to go back to his own car the though of them riding together disappearing.

Mom and Pop's would be fine...

Katie flips through a few papers as she continues to talk with Jason. She new what Jason was doing using normal ways to communicate but she wasnt going to do the same. If she was going to be getting ride of there connection sooner or later she was going to get all the use she could now.

..and thats fine about picking me up. Let me know when your ready to go to lunch.

Exiting the bathroom Charlotte takes the cloth she had and whips her face once again. What a worse time for morning sickness to want to kick in. In the middle of the afternoon and while she is at a hospetil non the less with lots of people to listen to her stomach revolting against her.

Feeling ok for the moment Charlotte takes her place once again by the bed taking Bret's hand in her own again giving it a gentil kiss.

"Good Morning Sweetheart."

She talked to Bret as often as she could to let him know she was there. Maybe the sound of her voice would bring him back.

Sitting on the edge of the bed it had been a hard morning for Wendy. She was several days past dew and she just wanted this to be over with now.

Standing to go try and get ready for the morning Wendy only sits down again quickly wincing in a little bit of pain.

Looking over to Clint as he was getting ready for work she whispers not being able to help the smile on her face between the wincing of pain.

"Clint, I dont think they are going to wait any longer. Its time!"

Question

"Mm-hmm..." Rick waves absentmindedly as Misty leaves the infirmary. He looks up just as she disappears, but the sparkle on her hand catches his eye. He blinks, his mouth opening slightly. No... surely he didn't just see a ring on her left hand... did he? He shakes his head. It had to be his imagination. He would look again when she got back. Carson? Naah.


You pick the lunch place, Jason types on his keyboard. Tonight before the concert, I'll pick you up so you can join me and the guys.


A chuckle bubbles from Dani. "I hardly think any car you'd drive, I would be cramped in." Even now, she had to bend her neck to look up at Dalton. Her smile was genuine. She wasn't making fun of him - she really was enjoying the prospect of the day.

"That was sweet of you to clean out your car but..." She bites her lip and glances to her own car. "Would it be okay if I followed you? Would you mind too much?"

Cleaned out

Misty gives a small smile as she chuckles at Danie. Still looking into Carson's eyes her grin is still there as her eyes twinkle with happiness.

"Ok, I will take the blame for this one."

Taking the towel and giving her thanks to Dani Misty drys herself off the best she cant as she lets Carson help her before heading home for the night and talking more with Carson letting him know how sorry she was, but now how happy she was as well.

Keeping herself busy at work Misty works with a new air about her. She felt a feeling she could never describe. It was almost of feeling of being complete, a happiness she was happy to have.

Moving about the infermary she helps the best she can with Jeff knowing Rick was waiting for for the phone call from Angel.

As the lunch hour comes along Misty grabs her purse and heads for the door. Turning she gives a small wave to Rick her ring catching the light and giving a sparkle.

"I am meeting Carson for lunch. If you need something call. See you in an hour."

Getting Jason's message on the computer Katie gives a small smile. Things had still been tense with Jeff, and there prevous conversation still on her mind but Katie tryed her best to keep her spirits up.

Letting her emotions slowly forward Katie replys to Jason.

Lunch sounds great, and I dont think I am doing anything tonight so as long as Jeff is doing ok, I'll be at the concert.

Driving down the street Dalton keeps his eyes open for Dani's place. It wasnt hard to find seeing as she was sitting outside. Pulling into the parking lot Dalton puts the car in park before stepping out of the car and throwing a smile at Dani. His sunglass removed and put gentily on top of his head. His loss white tee and his jeans proved work was not on his agenda today.

"I'd say good morning but its the afternoon, so I guess I will stick with Hi."

Stepping a little closer to Dani Dalton gives a small nod not wanting to give her a hug and invade her space but thinking a handshake was to formal.

"Well I am ready if you are?"

Dalton gives a smile to Dani. He haad been waiting for this since yesterday and couldn't wait. He never showed it much but he was excited to be going to lunch with Dani.

"I cleaned out my car and everything so you will have a place to sit and you wont feel cramped. I promise to I am a really safe drive."

Dalton was proud of what he had done with his car. For the longest time he had lived in his car and now I have it cleaned out for a good reason he made him feel good that he had a reason to do so.

Waiting

"I wanted you two to make up, not make out," Dani muses loudly.

Carson doesn't bother pulling away too quickly, but he eventually does, a grin on his face before turning to his sister. "Your fault."

"Yeah, sure." Dani rolls her eyes, though they twinkle with humor. "Here's a towel Misty." She refrained from any other teasing remarks that popped into her head.

Carson helps Misty dry her hair, then grabs his keys. "I'll drive you home, okay?"


The sun rose as faithfully as ever, bright and red through the clouds on the horizon. More storms were on their way. But for now, they were at a distance.

Across town, the little Italian restaurant bubbled to life. Something had changed... there was a different in the atmosphere. But so far only two women knew why there was a new kind of smile on Carson's face.

On the other side of town, TJY comes to life. Workers in and out. Reese on the phone. Rick busy in the infirmary, wondering at Misty's odd behavior, but any new jewelry had slipped his radar at this point. He was concentrating too much on Jeff, who had been in and out of sleep with a high fever all night.

As slowly as the hours move though, soon it's late morning and lunchtime is on the minds of several people.

Jason types a message to Katie's computer, awaiting a response.

Hero - lunch? Tonight's concert. Coming along?


Dani rummages through her purse to find her keys, walking to her small yellow car. Looking at her watch, she decides to wait outside, leaning on the hood. Dalton should be coming any minute, and she was looking forward to it. The picnic basket was already in the back seat, and she just hoped those clouds held back their rain for a few more hours.

Handle

Looking at the ring on her finger Misty turns her hand slightly to the left and than the right letting the run catch in the light for a moment in almost aw of it.

"Its beautiful Carson, just perfect. You did good You did good."

As Misty is brought into Carson's arm a sassy smile that never died grew on her face as she cocked her head to the side knowing was what to come.

"I think I can handle dessert now."

Wrapping her arms around Carson the one finds his back as it rubs it gentil as the other combs through his hair before cradling the back of his head. Letting the passion, the feels wash over her while everything else from the day was being washed away. Her heart thumped, her love grew and all we well.

maybe

"I promise." Carson's words had never sounded more honest.

Taking Misty's hand gently, he slips the ring onto her finger, admiring it for a moment. "And who says a man can't pick out a good ring, ay?"

A little grin appears on his face as he locks eyes with Misty once again. "I hope it's alright. And... I'm sorry about everything. This wasn't how I'd planned to ask you."

Drawing her nearer to him, he wraps his arms around her, not caring that she was still soaking wet from the rain. "Now... I never really got my desert earlier..."

Still grinning, he leans closer, pressing his lips to hers, gradually deepening the kiss until he has her in a full embrace, not caring about anything else in the world.

Dani appears again in the hallway, a towel in hand. She blinks, then just watches, leaning against the wall and shaking her head. But she had to smile. Carson had his faults like anyone, but when he did something right, he did it all the way. Dani knew he had been hesitant to get closer with Misty for two reasons... one, the issue of faith, and two, the fact that he always felt like a failure and didn't want to disappoint her. But finally... he had asked her. It might be a while still but... Dani had a feeling they were headed down the right road. And maybe by the time they actually got married, both of those reasons will be resolved.

Promise

Her heart just sinking a little again as Carson takes the ring back Misty wonders if its for the best. About to turn and leave once again Misty gives a jump as Dani comes out of no where. Looking from Dani to Carson than Dani again Misty cant help but know she was right. This was pretty sad to be going around and around with the same thing.

Watching Dani as she goes down the hall Misty cant only stand in blink before looking back to Carson. Hearing his praposle again Misty cant help the smile that forms on her face that only grows when he lets her know he is going to love her no matter what. Taking a few steps closer to Carson Misty holds her hand out to him.

"Yes, I will marry you Carson Banks! I love you with all I am and that will never change no matter what.Just promise me you will be honest with me from now on even if you think it will upset me so I dont have to hear it from someone else."

Pathetic

Carson swallows hard, the level of tension starting to lower then ease off. He stares at the outstretched ring being handed back to him, then back up to Misty's eyes.

Sighing deeply, he takes it back. "It was stupid of me to think this would work. We're just... I don't know." He closes the box lid with a snap. "You don't have anything to be sorry about anyway. It's me and I know it. I just-"

"Oh, this is pathetic."

Carson flinches as Dani suddenly joins them. She sets her hands on her hips and looks between them. "First, dear brother of mine, do you really expect a girl to say yes to you when you just haphazardly toss the ring to her? What were you thinking?!" She turns to Misty. "And you, of all people! You love this man to death, and you're turning him down because you're in the middle of a pity party. You both are!" She shakes her head. "Unbelievable... totally unbelievable. I don't know what happened earlier - I don't want to know. But for pete's sake. This really is pathetic."

Spinning around, she heads for the hallway. "I'm getting a towel for you, Misty. Carson, get your act together before I come back."

Carson's eyes have widened slightly and he looks back to the ring in his hand, to Misty, then to Dani, then back to Misty. Left alone for just a couple moments, he shrugs. "For once, I think my little sister is right."

Stepping closer to Misty, he takes the ring again, holding it out to her. "Misty Miller, I'm asking you to marry me. I don't know when, I don't know how but I'm asking you anyway. I'm tired of the games, I'm tired of the questions, I'm tired of wondering if you'll still be mine tomorrow. So... for the second time, are you going to accept this ring? Because even if you don't, I'm still gonna love you to death, so you might as well accept it and say yes."

I'm Sorry

Feeling irratated at first for Carson's own frustration she just wanted him to say yes or no before she lost the rest of her speech. Continuing to listen Misty is about to speak again when Carson finally said he loved her but catches the small box instead.

Just looking down at her hand and the little box everything else Misty was about to say was now lost. Running her fingers over the ring and the diamonds before looking up at Carson. Everything about her now changed. Her eyes held something else now maybe a little bit of confustion but something else was there too. Looking back down and than up again tears filled Misty's eyes.

"I...had this whole speech I was going to say about how I dont want to be alone, and I was going to tell you I was sorry and now...its...I..dont remeber what else I was going to say."

Feeling a ping in her heart she felt such a fool. How couldnt she have doubted Carson's love for her?!

"After everything...I want to say yes but you dont deserve me. You have come such a long way and...I made such a fool of myself. I'm sorry."

Misty holds the ring out to Carson. She felt so small right now and she was so sorry to have runed Carson saprise.

Proof

Carson blinks. All he wanted to do at the moment was help Misty clean up and make sure she was okay. But apparently she had other intentions. Her question caught him off guard and made his mouth go dry. He stares into her eyes for several long, awkward moments. "I've been trying for who knows how long to tell you that," he replies, almost in annoyance. "What does a guy have to do so a woman believes him?"

He shakes his head. "Then I lied, I cheated, I'm a mean sun-of-a-gun and you wanted to be left alone. Now you come here and ask me if I love you?"

He throws his arms up in the air. He didn't understand the way she thought, or her mood or any of it. He felt badly, seeing her in this state, but what had she been thinking, walking out in that storm anyway?

"You really want to know?" He turns around, stalking to the drawer in the end table by the couch. Pulling out a little square box, he waves it up in the air, the irritation still high. "I've been hanging onto this for the past two months, without the guts to give it to you, because all I do is screw things up. All I do is wind up in trouble. All I do is make the wrong decisions."

Still talking, he aims back towards her, ignoring the shocked look on Dani's face as she still sat on the couch, unable to help but listen. Carson's voice rises in volume, his accent becoming more pronounced.

"I turned my life around, I came to terms with God and I've been praying for the day you will too. I've been trying my hardest to be the best man I can, but it's never good enough! All I do is wind up failing in some way or the other. I'm stupid, hard-headed and ignorant! And... and... and..."

He stumbles over his own words, having no idea where he had been headed with that train of thought. His face reddens, but he's too hyped up to stop. "Yes, of course I love you! You want proof? Here! I'm tired of this stupid fight!"

Opening the box, he tosses it in her direction.

Only one small item makes up the contents.

The band is white gold.


The set of three petite diamonds sparkles, despite the gloomy atmosphere.

Do u

Not stepping inside Misty looks at Carson dead in the eyes her words were short and held much emotion maybe everything she had felt all day. Her eyes had hurt, and love, pain and joy in them and they were glazed with confusion.

"Carson Banks, do you love me?"

Though she might feel just a bit crazy she had to know. It had been to long, and with everything that happend she didnt know if it was true. She new what she felt, but could her emotions lie? She had to know from him!

What

The loud bang on the door and the shout for Carson is enough to make him jump. He'd been asleep in the same position on the couch, and Dani had fallen asleep too, the movie credits rolling up the television screen.

"What on earth...." He sits up groggily, then he realizes just whose voice he had heard. He's instantly on his feet, going for the door.

Opening it wide, he stares at Misty, his eyebrows rising. "What..." He opens the door more, so she can come in. "...what are you doing here? You walked? Are you okay?"

Call out your name

Closing the door behind Carson Misty leans her head aganst the door. Her weakness had always been Carson and not going with him killed Misty a little more inside.

Turning she goes into the bedroom and grabs her jacket and heads out the door. The rain slowly starts to fall but Misty dosnt pay anymind. It felt good on her hot face.

As the rain starts to pound harder Misty's mind races as she thinks about Carson. As her walk quickens and the rain still comes down Misty starts to run. She wanted to burn everything out so her mind would be clear.

But as the rain comes harder and some thunder cracks the hump in the pavement is not seen. As her foot gets hooked Misty hits the ground as her hands get scraped up. But as if the flood gates were open the tears finally spring into Misty's eyes her crys are loud as the thunder drowns them out, but the frustration she was feeling, the anger and the hurt was being alowed to clear.

Finally as the time ticked away Misty picks herself off the ground the tears had slowed but she was soaking wet and muddy. As the lighting start to intensafi Misty new it wasnt safe anymore. Taking a look around to see where she was, she was saprised to finder her outside Dani and Carson's place. Feeling a suddin ping of lonlyness Misty makes her way up the walk.

Giving a loud knock on the door Misty calls make sure she would be heard.

"CARSON!"

couch

Seeing the open door, Carson knows that's the request for him to leave. He looks down, then picks up his keys. There was a sinking feeling in his gut that he tried to ignore. He and Misty... they were going to be okay, weren't they? The question is obvious in his eyes.

Stopping at the door, he pauses as if wanting to say something, but he refrains. Instead, he just gives Misty a light kiss to the cheek. "I'll see ya." He departs quietly, making his way down the sidewalk and to his car.

He goes straight home. He was tempted to go elsewhere, but he knew if he did, he'd just wind up in more trouble.

Getting back to the apartment, he heads up the stairs, then inside. Dani is still up, watching television from the couch. "Carson, that you?"

"Yeah." Carson throws his keys on the counter and wanders to the living room, slipping out of his tennis shoes. Moving around, he flops down on three quarters of the couch, landing his head on the pillow that was in Dani's lap.

Dani widens her eyes. "Well hi to you too. You okay?"

"Mmm," Carson mumbles.

"I thought you'd be out late with Misty."

"So did I." Carson keeps his eyes closed, feeling miserable. "We had a little fight... kind of."

"I'm sorry." Dani ruffles his hair. "Want the couch to yourself?"

Carson shakes his head. He didn't know what he wanted.

Dani sighs and settles back, just letting her brother stay there. It wasn't often he got like this, but when he did, she knew better than to pester him. Maybe he just needed a bit of sisterly understanding tonight. "Okay. Well I'm watching a drama so just close your eyes if you don't want to see it."

Tomorrow

Letting out a small sigh Misty leans back a little in her chair. She wished things could be easy and there was no pain involved.

Thinking about Carson's question for a long moment Misty finally stands. She didnt know what she wanted right now. She wanted to hold Carson, she wanted to push him away, she wanted to go but she want to stay alone.

"Its a little late for a movie now. Maybe tomorrow we can go. I think I am just going to go for a walk to clear my head."

Moving to the door Misty opens it for Carson.

Still?

Carson withdraws a little. Her finishing statement scared him. "I... okay." He was a little surprised. She wasn't really pushing him away, but she wasn't letting them move past this either. Had he been more wrong than he'd thought?

He stands up slowly, aiming towards the door, but stops near her chair. "Um... we were gonna watch a movie tomorrow night... do you still want to go?"

Do you?

"What got me upset Carson is you lied to me again, you broke my trust again. This relationship is about being honest, and not hidding ANYTHING from eachother. You should have come to me and told me or when I asked told me. You think I am upset? You have been me upset before and this is far from upset. This...this is numb."

Misty's eyes search Carson's He was telling the truth but that didnt take away the hurt that Misty still felt.

"I'm sorry, I cant be all happy roses and smiles, It still hurts Carson, and you broke our bond."

Looking down at the table Misty runs her fingers along the edge. She felt like she was going crazy, to cry or to scream would be better than this, the feeling of being numb.

"I just need time."

Kassidy

Carson looks up from the table, his thumb having run back and forth, back and forth until Misty came. Looking across at her, his eyes are tired, the anger gone. He'd had enough time to cool down.

"You're right," he states flatly. "I'm always sorry. I always screw things up, I always go about things the wrong way, and I always make a mess."

Sighing deeply, he shakes his head, dropping his gaze. "I didn't kiss her like I kiss you, Misty. Yeah, I know I have a weakness and I know I have bad habits that I'm still trying to cut out. But the last time really was the last time and I haven't gotten involved with anyone but you, since."

Reaching into his shirt, he pulls out the locket. "I'm not playing games when I wear this... or this." He pulls up his shirt sleeve, showing the tattoo he still wore. "I wasn't joking around."

It's a long pause before he goes on, first by untucking a piece of paper from his pocket. "I was with Kassidy today because of this.... it's a password that may help me reach the files I need to prove what really happened to Scott at the Agency. Now yes..." He bravely proceeds with his admittance. "...I know Kassidy in ways that aren't appropriate for me to say in any conversation. She owed me a favor, and I called it in. She's wanted out of the Agency for a long time, but hasn't had the guts. So she was willing to help. When I met her out at the edge of town, the first thing she did was sling her arms around me and told me to play along. The Agency was probably watching her, and they thought she was just out for a good time. If it didn't look real, they'd kill her. So... I played along."

Carson shrugs lamely. "It was a split-second decision and... and... I don't know what, but it was an act, and I'm sorry it hurt you. I don't know who else was tailing me... I suspect it was Wyatt, and no one else could have known what was really going on. Kassidy backed off but was afraid to slip me the password right away, so she got in my car and we went for a drive. We stopped for a while, then I drove her back. It never went further than that, and even when she grabbed me the first time, I hated every second of it."

Taking a deep breath, he searches Misty's eyes. "I... I didn't want you finding out, not because I was trying to hide it, but because I didn't want exactly this to happen - you to get upset when there's nothing there. Kassidy is gone and that's all there was. Nothing more. Now I have a password, and I'm one step closer to the truth about Scott."

Hour

Giving a grunt before her stomach rebells again Misty whispers.

"Someone's life already is destroyed."

Trying her best to keep her stomach calm Misty stays in the bathroom for almost an hour. Though she didnt feel like puking she still hurt. Even if Carson had a good reason, a kiss is a kiss is a kiss and it shouldnt have happend.

Finally standing from the floor Misty goes to the mirror, she found is strange that no tears had come yet, and her voice had been as steady as it was when all she wanted to do was flip out. It just took to much energy right now.

"Exiting the bathroom Misty makes her way to the dinning room once again and sits down the the table looking across to Carson."

I'll be

Misty's initial statement cuts Carson to the quick, and it's evident in his eyes. She was right.

Backing off, he gives a little nod. "At least they're safe. Whether you tell me who took them or not, I'll find out and they will be destroyed before someone's life is."

He leans on the sink a moment as if contemplating whether or not he should say more. Finally he just starts to leave the bathroom. "When you're done, if you can handle a civil conversation, I'll be in the living room."

vacent

"Your always sorry."

Looking up at Carson while there was a break and her stomach was not having its say at the moment Misty's shakes her head as her eyes were vacent the small glint of sadness there deep somewhere.

"They are at TJY."

Need to know

Carson follows after Misty, quickly realizing where she was going and why.

Reaching the bathroom behind her, he doesn't bother knocking. Instead, he doesn't move back, but gently pulls Misty's hair back out of the way, giving her back a light rub.

"I'm sorry," he apologizes quietly. "I need to know who has those picture."

Coming Up

"You kissing her like you use to kiss me.Thats what was in the pictures."

Misty choaks on her own words as she can feel the slice of pizza she had was coming up. Just from the though, from the pain. Moving away from Carson Misty heads to the bathroom and makes it just in time.

If you

Carson continues his stare straight into Misty's eyes. "If you trust me, tell me what's in the pictures and where they are."

Why

"Your not answeing my questions Carson why should I answer yours? She could die? Why? That still dosnt tell me why you kissed her!"

Misty still holds her ground look up into Carson's eyes. She was hurt, hurt maybe worse than before. Carson had said he'd changed but yet he still held his ways.

"Why Carson...Why?"

Stern

"You do need to tell me who took the pictures and where they are." Carson's voice is still stern. He closes the gap between him and Misty, looking her square in the eye, his own holding a strange combination of guilt, urgency and anger. "I need to know exactly what are in those pictures or that woman could die, do you understand?"

First

"First off, I didnt accuse you of anything. I was simply ask for the why to fill in the gaps of what went wrong again this time."

Misty's own eyes narrow a little as she continues to keep her cool. Not getting upset, Not showing anger, and something at the moment was really hard but not crying.

"I dont need to tell you who took those pictures or why Carson because thats not important. Whats important is you kissed another woman, someone who wasnt me your girlfriend. I'm cracking here Carson and you cant even giving me a simple reason?"

Now

"If you really trust me, then I don't know why you have the accusing tone in your voice," Carson counters. "I didn't think I needed to report to you what I did on my breaks from work."

He takes a step closer to her, his voice stern, his eyes narrowing slightly. "I want to know who took pictures, why and where they are..... Now."

Once again

"You kissed her Carson. I know its true I had proof."

Misty stands from the movies having non in hand. She didnt know what she wanted to watch right now if anything at all. She was sick to her stomach and tired of feeling this way.

"Did I have someone follow you? No I didn't because I new I could trust you. Actully, when I saw the pictures I was pretty shocked."

Misty takes in a deep breath as she starts to pase the floor a little. Inside she felt so cold yet so hot at the same time the feeling was unreal.

"So I guess it comes down to my question once again. What did you do today Carson when you left in the middle of work?"

Misty didnt show anger in his voice as her temper did not flair. She just wanted answers to all the questions she had.

Paranoid?

Carson's jaw tightens and he folds his arms in a defensive stance. "So what? Now you don't even want me to be around any other women or what?" He fishes for more information. How much did Misty know?

"Does it matter if I saw an old acquaintance today? If it wasn't important enough for me to mention it when you asked before, why would it be more important now? Are you paranoid enough that you've had someone follow me or what?"

Choose Wisely

Still looking at the movies Misty stiffens just a little feeling herself turn a bit straghter than her slouched over from as before.

"It dosnt matter where I got it from unless your telling me its not true and you were not with a woman today and my information is wrong, but I would choose your words wisely and come clean if you must."

Misty wanted to see what Carson's reply now was. She had not yet told him she saw any pictures. Would he fess up or would he continue to lie. Had he really learned his lessons from his past mistakes or was it once again the same long road.

Want to know

Carson can feel himself tense at Misty's words. How? How had she known? He'd been clear on the other side of town. How had she found out about this?

For a moment, he just stands, not saying anything. He could tell by the sound of her voice that she was upset. He didn't detect anger yet, but she was hurt... very hurt.

He opens his mouth to speak, then just shuts it again. Another quiet minute passes before he finally opens it again. His voice has an irritated edge to it. "I want to know where you got this information from."

I know

Not standing Misty continues to look at the movies. They had finally started to all bler together, from the hurt, the anger, the confusion.

Her voice stays low and meek as her fingers run over the dvds her mind not knowing where to go and knowing she had to get it off her chest, it was hard enough trying to deal with it when she didnt know how she felt.

"I know Carson, I know you went out today and spent time with a woman. I just dont understand why you didnt tell me to my face."

Misty didnt turn to look at Carson her heart hurt, and if she looked up into his blue eyes she would crack and she new it.

Just tell me

Carson wanders into the living room, leaning on the back of the couch. Hearing Misty's question, he furrows his brow and stands up straighter. Something just didn't feel right. She didn't normally ask him questions like this.

"Um... nothing happened in particular..." He could feel just a bit of heat creeping up the back of his neck though.

"Was there... something that should have?" He fishes, beginning to feel just a little scared. But this was impossible. There was no way she could know. "I mean... what are you getting at, Misty? Just tell me."

Nothing at all?

Finishing her slice of pizza Misty knows she cant have anymore or what was in her stomach would be all over the floor. Standing and putting her plat in the sink she stands at the counter for a long moment just contemplating in her own mind. She felt hurt and confused all over again. Even if Carson had a reason there was nothing good or right about kissing another woman. This was the third time Misty had been faced with this with Carson.

"There is not much to talk about just.... something Wyatt told me that happend and I am not to sure I know how to feel right now. Most of it I have to try and figure out myself."

It was so hard to just still and not tell him she didnt know but on another hand she hoped he would tell her himself. Hadnt he learned not to keep secrets? Hadnt he learned anything? Hadnt he almost lost her enough? It hurt and Misty hated it yet to her own surprise she was handling it well.

Pushing off the counter Misty makes her way over to the movie rack looking for something to watch. It was hard to choose and though she new every movie she had the need to look again was there. Continuing to look her eyes scan the movies as she casually asks Carson again.

"Your sure nothing else happened in your day you wanted to tell me about? See any old friends, any new friends?"

Mushy romance

Carson cocks his head. He'd seen Misty tired before... he'd seen her stressed... he'd seen her when she had a lot on her mind. And something this time was... different. But he couldn't put his finger on it. It seemed odd she wasn't even razzing him about forgetting their date. Even if she was genuinely disappointed, she always would tease him, never letting him live it down. Tonight... it was almost as if she didn't care. That thought kind of hurt, but it was his own fault for not remembering. He'd done that too often and he needed to start being more careful before Misty quit caring for good.

He falls silent for several minutes, polishing off a couple slices of pizza. Finally he looks back up to Misty, question in his eyes. There was an odd feeling in the room. Thoughts of earlier in the day drift through his mind. But surely this had nothing to do with that. No one knew about that. He shakes the thought away.

"If... you got a lot on your mind, I'm here to listen if you want. Or if you don't want to, we can curl up on the couch for a movie... I'll even let you pick out a mushy romance."

Promised

Taking another bit of her food Misty gives a nod to Carson as he talks about his errans. Misty wanted so bad to come out and just ask Carson about the woman. It was now eating her away inside but she had promised Wyatt she wouldnt say anything and though he hadnt said why she new it must be for a good reason.

"Made at you for missing our date night no not really."

Misty wished she could be in a light mood but right now it just wasnt possible for her. So much weighed heavy on her mind and on her heart.

"Sorry I am not much company. I just got alot on my mind at the moment. One of those things where its important but not important at the same time."

Waiting to kill

Carson's all ready to head for the couch, but seeing Misty sit at the table, he shrugs. Maybe she wasn't in the mood. He grabs a chair across from her.

"Mm-hmm," he nods absentmindedly as he takes a bite of pizza. "Errands. I actually caught Ryder and threw him in the kitchen until I got back. It was a mess but I think he and Thirteen had fun."

He takes another swig of pop before stopping and looking over at Misty. "You alright? Or are you really mad I forgot about tonight and you're waiting to kill me after we eat?"