Me now you

Letting out a sigh Katie shakes her head at the mention of the phone. Every day it was getting worse...everyday more memories came back. Going back to her paperwork Katie trys to keep busy.

Realizing she was squeezing Bret's hand a little harder than she ment Charlotte loosens just a little and looks back to Bret.

"Yeah I am ok, I just...don't like seeing her riyal you up."

Some time later...

Helping Jen in the sound stand to start and get everything together Katie's own laughs continue with Jen. It was nice to be here again even if she was self contuse.

Receving Jason's request Katie gives a smile as she finish something for Jen and than lets her emotions flow.

Yeah sure, give me a second.

Finishing up she goes over to the box and than brings it to Jason.

Here ya go Babe, sorry it took so long.

Now left alone with Trent at the table Thirteen is quiet as she looks down at the pattern on the table cloth.

Small talk...small talk, Ryder had been telling she that small talk was short things to make conversation to fill in the silence. They had talked about her a little, but not about Trent himself. Looking up Thirteen gives a small smile.

"So...you live in Texas? What do you do?"

Beeswax

Jason shakes his head about dinner. "Sorry, won't have time. We can pick up some fast food though." He gives her a wink. "We can eat before we take something back to the others."

Pushing off the wall, he starts for the exit. "I'll pick you up in a while," he calls over his shoulder. "Anything changes, call."


Maria stiffens and grits her teeth as she looks at Charlotte. "Okay. Well... I guess I'll be going now. Can't say I didn't offer."

Spinning on her heel, she walks briskly back out into the hall, disappearing.

Bret rolls his eyes before settling back down again. "So much for peace and quiet." His hand is still in Charlotte's and he gives it a little squeeze. "You alright?"


Dani waves out the front door as Dalton drives off and she smiles until he's down the block. Turning, she heads across the floor at Mom and Pop's towards the kitchen where she's met by Carson.

"Have fun?"

"Mm-hmm." Dani nods as she sets her purse down and goes for her apron. "Wouldn't mind giving me a ride home tonight, would you?"

"Um, yeah... yeah, I can do that before I go to Misty's. You didn't drive?"

"No, I had Dalton bring me back."

"Ah, I see." Carson quirks an eyebrow. "No mishaps?"

Dani shakes her head. It had been a short trip from the apartment to here. "Nope."

"Good." Carson moves about the kitchen, preparing another meal. "Like him?"

Dani gives him an elbow to the ribs. "None of your beeswax."


Later...


"Phil, toss that cord over here!"

"Mike, where's that microphone case?"

"Who has the duct tape?!"

"Jason, get over here!"

"Has anybody seen my brain??"

The craziness was the same. The laughter was the same. JetStream preparations were always the same and always loved.

Jason scurries around with the rest of the band, enjoying himself like always, along with Phil, Mike and Jen. Fooling onstage with his guitars and amps, he spies Katie across the room near one of the boxes. "Hey Katie!" he shouts, pointing to the box. "Can you bring that to me??"


Trent leans back in the kitchen chair, wiping his mouth with a napkin and setting his fork down. "Well... Ryder was right..." He throws Thirteen a wink. "You're doing a fine job."

"See?" Ryder nudges her as he clears off the table. "You're a natural."

Trent grins a little. Grace had been a good cook.

Ryder starts to rinse some of the dishes, continuing to glance over to Thirteen to make sure she was alright. So far, the topics of conversation had revolved mostly around the weather or the Elite. But nothing about Trent himself or Texas. Maybe it was best that way.


"Twins?" A smile creases Austin's lips as he sits on his couch, the phone to his ear. "And Wendy? ...good. Yeah, okay. Hey tell Angel..." His voice trails off for a moment. "No, never mind. Thanks for letting me know. Okay... bye."

Hanging up, he continues sitting in the dim living room, nothing around him but the quiet.

Thanks but no thanks

Standing at his own car Dalton thinks for a long moment. A smile slowly spreading across his face as he gives a chuckle standing a little taller.

"Yeah because I...am scared of you."

Dalton points a finger at Dani the humor playing in his eyes. For some reason it struck his funny bone she had said that.

"I can follow you. Don't have anything else going on so I can do that."

Putting on his sunglasses again Dalton starts to get into his car before he throws a wink at Dani.

Charlotte looks to the door as she hears the voice. Tensing herself just a bit as she looks at Maria Charlotte glances at Bret and than back to Maria. It was a bit awkward having her here, not to mention is was her boyfriend who cut Bret off.

"Come to clear you own mind for what your boyfriend did?"

Charlotte kept her own voice soft still knowing Bret was still trying to recover and they were in a hospetil. Though she was pretty upset that Maria had the nerve to come here. Not leaving room for her to really say anything more Charlotte continued.

"It was nice of you to worry and come, but we are both ok. Thank you though."

Unfolding the peace of paper and seeing the smiley face Thirteen cant help her own smile that forms looking up to see Ryder instead her attachen is diverted as she see Trent coming over.

Giving a nod to Trent she couldn't help but feel strange hearing her real name. She wasn't use to it and it felt so strange.

Straying quiet as she continues to listen to the two men talk Thirteen cant help but watch Trent. The way her moved, and talked it intrigued her like she had seen it before. But that was silly she had only met him recently.

Hearing Ryder offer Trent to dinner Thirteen smiles and gives a small nod.

"Yes it would be very nice to have you for dinner. Than you can tell me how my food really is. I think Ryder just says yes to make me feel good."

Thirteen gives a smile.

Looking up from her paper work Katie gives a smile to Jason. She was a little leery about going out in public now that she looked differnt, but she had a job to do and she couldnt miss out in a Jetstream consert.

"I'll make sure I am ready. Want to go to dinner first?"

Unless of course

Dani looks up at Dalton with a little smirk on her face. "Oh yes, I'm terrified of you." She rolls her eyes, emphasizing her sarcasm before a little laugh sneaks out.

"Well, as far as next time goes, you apparently have good taste, so I don't care who picks."

Getting back to the cars, she leans against hers for a moment in thought. "If you follow me home and have time to wait ten minutes, you can drive me to work if you want... Unless of course, I've scared you too much."


Bret shakes his head just a little. "Naw... as long as he's okay, that's all I was worried about."

Taking a deep breath, he lets it out slowly, his eyes starting to drift shut again. "I just wanna rest... just... a little..."

He's almost asleep again when a new figure arrives at he door. Maria steps in, giving a glance to Charlotte, then to Bret. "I heard he was awake. How is he?"

Bret opens one eye, tensing up a bit. "He's fine," he mumbles. "What are you doing here?"

"Can't I come to see if you're alright?" Maria steps closer towards the foot of the bed, her arms folded. "Kirk said it wasn't good and I was worried."

"You?" Bret gives a little scoff.

"Yes me. I am capable of feeling, you know. But oh, that's right, you forgot."

"Get out, Maria."

She stops and gives a little shrug. "I'm sorry. I really was worried."

Bret quirks a tired eyebrow at her softer tone. Apparently she meant it. "Well... thanks. I'll be fine."

"Can I get you anything?" She glances to Charlotte, then to Bret again. "Either of you?"


Ryder sits at his desk, staring at the computer screen with little interest. The work Reese had given him was boring him to death. He felt more like a secretary than a field agent.

Spying a blank piece of paper beside the keyboard, he draws a quick smiley face with a pen, then folds the paper down, angling it just right. Without turning around to aim, he tosses the paper airplane over his shoulder to send it into Thirteen's lap a few feet behind him.

He would have followed up with a glance in her direction, but something else catches his eye - someone coming across the main floor, headed for the hall. He quirks an eyebrow in surprise.

Trent is heading for the infirmary, but seeing Ryder, he decides avoidance would only cause more questions. So he approaches, giving a nod. "Ryder..." His eyes drift to Thirteen and linger for a moment. "Jasmine."

Ryder sits back in his chair. "Hi, Trent. Thought you'd be back in Texas by now."

"I would have been, except I got a phone call about Jeff, so I opted to stay and see what happens there." A strange glance to Thirteen seems to connect her somehow to what was happening with Jeff.

"I see. You have a place to stay?"

"Yeah, yeah... I got the hotel down the street from here. Don't know how long I'll be around now I guess. I was just on my way to see Jeff now."

"Ah." Ryder folds his arms during a strange pause. "Look, um, Thirteen and I are on our own for supper tonight. You're more than welcome to join us."

Trent's eyes widen a little, and once again, his gaze finds Thirteen. He studies her a moment before snapping back to Ryder. It seems to take longer than it should for him to decide. "Um... yeah, okay... I think I'd like that."

"Good." Ryder grins. "I hope you like lazagna . Thirteen's been learning how to cook."

Trent finally smiles a little. "Sounds great. I guess I'll catch you later then."


Jason is on his way out of TJY, but stops, turns and heads to Katie's cubicle, making himself just a bit later than planned. "Hey..." He leans over the wall. "Heading out of here early to get ready for tonight. Still want me to pick you up at your place?"

Want me

"Ah, so your bother has been busy making an honest woman of Misty huh? Or is it the other way around?"

Dalton gives a laugh as he continues to make the bend with Dani on the trail. Then time spent with her was nice even we they didn't talk at all.

As the trail started to end Dalton's heart sinks a little. He was having a nice time and there time was coming to a close. He new Dani had to work soon and time had just passed to fast.

"I had a really nice time Dani. Next time you get to pick what we do...that is if I didn't scare you to much."

Sitting down on the bed with Bret Charlotte gives another sweet smile. She wanted to make Bret as comfortable as she possably could and once again her news for him would be put off for now till he was more stable.

"Landon doing ok. He's been in to see you a few times and I think he is still around here some where. Want me to get him for you?"

Sorry

Dani's cheeks move as she smiles at Dalton. "Mmm.... yes, I think you can be both. Would that make you a centaur? You know, half horse, half man?"

Laughing again, she finally releases her hold, sliding down to the ground. Coming around the side of Dalton, she takes a deep breath of the warm air and looks down the trail. "Alright, trail, here we come."

Conversation is struck up once more as the two take a brisk walk. Sometimes though, it's just the sound of the wind in the trees and birds singing that fills the air. The lulls in chatting didn't seem to matter.

"When you get back to work, be sure to notice one of Misty's fingers," Dani comments, grinning. "You'll have to see what my brother's been up to."


Bret sighs, wincing a little. He shakes Charlotte's hand lightly, running a finger along her own. "Yeah... I know." He closes his eyes again, trying to work everything out in his mind. He'd been racing for months now, and the first actual competition outside if their own men, they wreck. What were the odds. "I'm sorry," he says quietly, opening his eyes once more to find Charlotte. "I should have paid more attention... I should have done something different out there and this wouldn't have happened."

He looks to her with question, having realized he hadn't asked yet. "Is... Landon okay?"

Flesh

Still with Bret Charlotte listens to JT talk taking in everything he said about Bret and what was going on with him. She couldnt even imagen how this would make him feel. Taking his hand in her own at JT still talks

As JT talks Charlotte's mind goes in many differnt directions. But money was never the first or the center one. Knowing her husband would be ok was the most important thing to her. Finally as JT leaves Charlotte turns to Bret again. Seeing the look in his eyes she new it was hard for him.

"Its going to be ok Hun. There will always next season. We are going to be ok."

Hearing Dani's laughs only makes Dalton feel even better. Dani had a nice laugh, and it was good to know he had caused it.

Getting to the trail and breathing deep himself Dalton leans back just a little exspecting Dani to slid off. But seeing as she doesn't he stands tall again. Feeling her warm flesh aganst his face Dalton's lips turn in a small smile.

Moving his eyes just a little to look at her out of the corner Dalton gives a small laugh.

"Can I be both? I like being a knight but I dont mind being the horse eather depening on the rider."

Knight

As Dalton takes her around the waist, Dani gives a laughing shriek. Flipped around with ease by the big man, she suddenly finds herself clinging to his back as he continues to run. Unable to help it, her laughter continues.

Dani hangs on for dear life with her arms and legs, and for a moment, she felt like a little kid again. It was a sensation she hadn't felt for a quite a while.

As Dalton slows down, reaching the trail, Dani is out of breath, just from hanging on. Still giggling, she just stays on his back for a moment, even though they're stopped. Resting her head on his shoulder, her cheek rests against hers. "So does this make you the knight in shining armor, or the knight's horse?"


Bret just gives a slight nod as Charlotte leaves, trying to wake up more. It doesn't take long before she's back with the doctor.

"Well Bret, welcome back."

Bret smiles weekly. "Hey, doc."

JT returns the smile and moves closer. "How are you feeling?"

"Um... tired."

"Mm-hmm... you've had a rough go of it." JT checks on Bret's vitals, shines a light in his eyes again, and pokes and prods a little.

"What's the worst of it?" Bret asks, enduring the inspection.

"Well, you got a nice bump on your head and you're going to be off of your ankle for a while. I'm sure you've felt the pain in your shoulder."

"Yeah, what'd I do to it?"

"A good job on it, I'll give you that." JT continues the examination. "Bottom line is, you broke it. Your neck got twisted around pretty well too." He moves to Bret's lower body, still poking around, pressing in on Bret's hip. "Does that hurt?"

Bret shakes his head.

"Can you feel this?"

Bret shakes his head again.

JT purses his lips grimly, working down Bret's right side, continuing to ask, but getting the same answer, even when asking him to move his leg or foot. After a few minutes, Bret's fear has risen. "Just give it to me straight, eh?"

JT straightens and sighs, folding his arms. He looks to Charlotte, then back down to Bret. "I'm not sure. Right now you're experiencing paralysis in your lower right side. It's not surprising, due to the trauma on your spinal cord, but I'm hoping it's temporary."

Bret stares up at the ceiling, a sinking feeling in his gut. "How do we know if it is?"

"Just give it time."

Though Bret wanted a more solid answer, he knew the doctor wouldn't have one. "Now what?"

"Rest." JT jots a few things down on his clipboard. "I want to keep you for a few days anyway, and we'll go from there." He offers another smile, trying to encourage both Bret and Charlotte. "If either of you need anything, let me or one of the nurses know."

Once JT has left, the room is quiet again. It's evident that a lot of things are running through Bret's mind - especially racing. A broken shoulder... paralysis. Driving wasn't even a possibility.

"Guess that's that then, huh." His hand fidgets with the bed sheet. "So much for this season." Not only did it upset him, but now they wouldn't have that income either.

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."