Real

Giving a knock to make sure Gage was up Sapphire enters the small room. She had come into late a little later today but she had to pick up a few things she wanted to bring in for Gage. Entering the room and setting them down on the bed the brown paper bag contained of a few shaving items, some new cloths, a tooth brush and toothpaste, new sneakers. She new he had a few things already but it was always getting new things.

"I picked up a few new things for you. It always helps me feel better when I get some new items. I know its a girl thing and your not a girl but maybe it will help anyways."

Giving Gage a soft smile Sapphire sits on the edge of the bed. Her eyes held a bit of worry for her new found friend. He hadn't been out much, not even to just wonder TJY. She was a bit worried he was falling into a state if depression.

"Gage, I've missed having my lunch buddy the last few days. I know you haven't felt up to going out much but I guess I was hoping if maybe today you would like to go to lunch. It might help you fell better."

Giving another smile Sapphire's eyes held hope. She wanted so bad to help Gage, and he had been doing so well. Now to only take a few steps back. It didn't disappoint her, or upset her, Sapphire's patents were great. It only made her sad that Gage had to feel so trapped.

Hearing her brothers voice Rosetta turns as a grin makes its way across her face. She had missed him so much and she had become so worried.

"Jeff?"

Rosetta reached out a little to her brother gentily running a hand down his face as if seeing if he was real.

"Oh Jeff.."

Feeling his flesh and seeing he was really there a smile spreads across Rosetta's face as she pulls Jeff into a hug.

"I've been sorry worried about you Jeff, and than Katie was taken, than you came back and Rick called and told us you were so sick."

A few tears rolls out of Rosetta's eyes as she held her brother in a strong hug for a long time. Finally pulling away she dosnt even bother with her tears as she continues to look at her brother.

"Are you back for good now? Are you better? Did they find what was wrong?"

Attention

Looking to Nate, Jason hesitates, having to stay focused for a moment before responding. He knew Nate had seen Camryn and wasn't really sure if he needed to say anything or not. He decides not to. "Um, thanks... and yeah... yeah, I think we're going out for pizza."

He gives Nate's arm a good-natured pat before turning around to help with loading up. He'd just as soon not get into a conversation that would lead back to Camryn at this point.


Carson receives Misty, putting his arm around her too. "Well I'm not ready yet," he teases. Ignoring the fact that they weren't alone, he yanks her closer to him, putting her in a rough hold. Grinning, he leans in and puts his lips to hers, giving her a good long, passionate kiss to cover for the whole day they'd been apart.

Rick throws up his arms, rolling his eyes. "Even when you don't work here, you still have to go and make a scene, don't you?" No response. "Carson.... Carson!" Seeing that Carson was totally ignoring him, Rick groans and turns around to get back to his work. "Get out of here, you two, before I throw you out. And Carson, go home at a decent time!"

Having let the kiss linger longer just for the sake of teasing Rick, Carson's laughter finally breaks the exchange. His eyes twinkle with mischief as he gives Misty's lips another peck. "I guess that's our cue to get out of here. I guess I'm ready now."


Gage doesn't react much to Sapphire's company. He was used to it by now. It takes him a long time to respond. He seemed to do that a lot... as if he mulled over every word a person said before speaking himself. Many times during the last few weeks, people had thought he hadn't heard them the first time and they would repeat themselves. Gage never corrected them. He always simply answered after he'd completely formulated his own words, no matter how long it took. And tonight, it seemed to take him even longer.

Sapphire's touch makes his eyes snap up to hers. Though they interacted frequently now, someone's touch still startled him. He doesn't draw back though.

"I hope so."

Turning his palm up, he looks down at their hands and slowly curls his fingers around hers as if testing to see what it felt like. His thumb slides down one of her fingers and he swallows hard. "Goodnight, Sapphire." Slowly, he lets go of her hand, signaling that this short visit was over. He would see her tomorrow.


And tomorrow did come...


Jason parks his truck outside the Curbside Cafe and slides out, gingerly stretching his sore leg. He eyes the crutches in the back seat, and decides to ignore them.

Taking a look around, he's unsure if Camryn is here yet or not. It had been a long morning at work, thinking about his lunch plans. He'd told no one. On one side, he felt guilty, and on another side, it seemed logical enough. Besides, it wasn't like there was anything more to this meeting than just saying hi to an old friend... right?

Jason takes in a deep breath and heads inside. Once his eyes adjust to the lighting, he sees someone wave from the back corner. A small smile emerges and he aims to the table Camryn had been sitting at for fifteen minutes already.


The dining hall was quiet. While the barns and corrals were busy with activity on this gorgeous day, the ranch's buildings remained fairly still.

Slowly, the lone figure steps up onto the porch, making his way inside. His stride seems heavy, his shoulders seeming to carry an invisible burden. But looking around and spotting Rosetta in the kitchen, his eyes try to spark and a grin toys with his mouth.

Making his way across the floor, he's finally in the kitchen doorway. "Gonna make me find my own welcome around here or what?" Jeff's smile spreads. "What's a guy gotta do to get a little attention anyway?"

Pizza

Making his way to the back Nate hangs up the phone with Laura turning the corner just in time to see Camryn walking away. Standing still for a moment Nate wasn't sure what was going on or what to think. Con had asked him to find Jason, and just coming around to see Camryn was a little bit of a shock.

"She looks different from that last time I saw her."

Letting out a small sigh its the only thing on the matter Nate says. Anything else was not his never mind even if he wanted to say something about it.

"You were good out there tonight Hotshot! Con wanted me to come and get you see if everyone was going out for pizza tonight or not? I guess Jamie is oddly enough starving tonight."

Looking up and giving a smile to Carson she motions she will be just a moment as she finishes up writing a few things down. She had been busy at work today between working on helping Rick with Jim, checkin on Alex and Gage, to doing her own side project on nerve damage repair it had hardly left any free time.

Finally putting the few things she had out into the filing cabinet Misty grabs her light jacket and wallet slipping it into her back pocket.

Coming up behind Carson Misty slips her arms around him and gives a small squeeze. Leaning her head against him for a moment.

"I am all set when you are."

Slowly entering the room where Gage sat Sapphire pokes her head in. She had knocked and not getting answer Sapphire had worried. The last few days it felt like Gage had been pulling away and she had the strangest feeling it wasn't a good thing.

"Hey Gage, its just me."

Going over the the best Sapphire could see the look in his eyes that told her he was far away. Sitting down on the edge of the bed she moves back so she can lean aganst the wall. Even if Gage didn't talk she wanted him to know she was there if he needed her. Gently reaching out Sapphire sets her hand on top of his.

"It's gonna be ok Gage."

Keep an eye on him

The night at the concert goes well. Despite a rough start, all the pieces fall into place by the time Jason, Mike and Phil take the stage. Axel is present to help Jen run sound, though hadn't been able to help much with setting up. Rocky is there too, and even Taylor came about halfway through.

Jason's performance is as good as ever, the crowd loving him. Only to those closest to him would it be obvious that he had slipped on a mask that he is so very good at doing. He smiled like always, joked with Phil and his voice rang true and clear. By the time the concert was coming to a close, the crowd was disappointed it was over already. But the band promised they'd be playing again soon.

Once the audience is starting to file out, JetStream starts taking things down. Jason wanders backstage for a few minutes to catch his breath. He sets his guitar down and grabs a new water bottle to take a good long drink. With the band milling around, starting to pack up, he didn't think much of feeling someone behind him.

"You still sound good."

Jason almost spits out his water before he whirls around. He can't help the look of shock that crosses his face. "Camryn?"

A smile slowly spreads. Her eyes still sparkle with the same energy she used to have, but something is different. Perhaps she was just a little more subdued. "Hey, Hotshot."

Jason isn't even sure what to say or how he's supposed to react. He keeps a hold on his water bottle, so his hands remain busy. "What, um... what are you doing here? I mean... I didn't know you were in town."

"I just got in last night," Camryn admits. She tucks her hands in her jeans pockets. "Heard JetStream had a show, so... I guess I couldn't resist."

"Wow." Jason tries to get over his surprise. Mixed emotions surface. "This is um..."

"Awkward, I know." Camryn gives a light laugh. "I'm sorry. But I didn't think it would be right for me to come without at least saying hi."

Jason finally offers her a small smile. "Naw, it's okay. I mean... yeah, this is awkward." He runs a hand through his hair a bit nervously. "You, um... you look good."

"Well, thanks." Camryn looks down at herself for a moment, then back up. Her hair wasn't quite as wild... her clothes weren't quite as rebellious. She stood a little straighter, her demeanor perhaps a little more mature. "You look good yourself." She cocks her head, just studying his eyes. "You've changed."

Jason laughs. "After two minutes, you know that?"

"You think I would have forgotten you?" Camryn shakes her head slowly. "No, Jason Stevenson, maybe I made some mistakes, but I still remember you... and I'd say you're a bit more wise."

Jason swallows hard and looks down for a moment before coming back up to meet her eyes. "Looks like you are too."

Camryn is quiet for several seconds, the noise of other people invading their halfway-private conversation. "You gonna be free sometime tomorrow?"

Jason quirks an eyebrow. "Depends on what I'd be free for."

Camryn laughs. "I just thought maybe we could sit and talk or something. Maybe over a cup of coffee. Or are you still into orange juice?"

Jason can't help a little laugh of his own. "It's about half and half now I'd say. Um..." His mind races. What did Camryn want? She didn't appear to want anything more than a friendly chat. There wasn't anything wrong with that, was there? Though there was nothing between them now, he couldn't ignore how close they'd been at one time. He at least owed her the chance to say whatever it was she wanted to say. The thought of Katie crosses his mind. She'd understand, wouldn't she?

Camryn reads his hesitation, and grows a little more solemn. "I just feel like there's a few things I need to say... I know it's been a long time, but... I just thought... I could use a few minutes one-on-one... if it's okay with you. I... I don't want to make you uncomfortable."

Jason fidgets with his water bottle. He wasn't sure he'd ever seen her so subdued. He was uncomfortable... but something made him want to go anyway. His eyes leave her for a moment to glance back out to the floor where he could see people like Nate and Con. He wondered if they knew Camryn was here. Even if they did, what did it matter? "Okay. How about lunch tomorrow? I'll have an hour."

Camryn grins. "Where?"

"Um..." Mom and Pop's was the first thing that came to mind but... maybe that wasn't such a good idea. "There's that little cafe down by the strip mall... I can't remember what it's called."

"I know the place." Camryn nods. "I'll be there... noon?"

"Yeah." Jason's gaze follows her as she walks away, and for a moment is left standing numbly.


Carson wanders into the infirmary, knocking on the door. He'd come after closing up Mom and Pop's a little early to see Misty and follow her back to her place for the evening. Seeing Rick he gives a wave. "Hey, Rick."

"Carson."

"How's it going?"

Rick shrugs. "Oh... it's going."

Carson chuckles and glances down to where Misty was, throwing her a smile to let her know he'd wait for her. He turns his attention back to Rick. "I haven't heard much about your... shall we say, Agency wards."

"You mean Alec and Gage?"

Carson nods.

Rick sighs. "Well, Alec seems to have calmed down a little bit, but he reminds me too much of you." He smirks. "I'm not sure what it'll take to straighten out that attitude, but they're not sending him to jail."

Carson moves on quickly, not really wanting to talk about his brother. "And Gage?"

"Mmm..." Rick thinks a moment. "Quiet. Especially the last few days. He hasn't even wanted to go out with Sapphire anymore, though I know she's tried. He just seems withdrawn all of a sudden.... not sure why. Reese just thinks he's starting to want to go back, but I don't think that's it."

"Has Alec gotten to him?"

"No... they've been separated this whole time. I think Reese has found a secure place for Gage though, but I don't know about Alec."

Carson thinks a moment, solemn as he's been distracted from waiting for Misty. "Rick... keep a close eye on Gage."

Rick quirks an eyebrow. "Well he's got freedom around here at the moment. I mean, so far he's been fine and-"

"That's not what I mean. Remember right after I came here?" Carson looks at him with seriousness. "When I realized I was so messed up? Gage has been taught that helping kill people was fine. Now he's here where he's learned it's not. What do you think that's doing to him up here?" He taps his head.

Rick is quiet for a moment. "You think... he'd be that desperate to hurt himself?"

"I don't know. But if he's gotten that withdrawn all of a sudden... I wouldn't take it too lightly. Just keep an eye on him. You might want Hope to come back and see him. And you might want to tell Sapphire to be watchful too."


"That's it? You can't go any further?"

Scott shakes his head as he looks at the computer screen, Gunner staring over his shoulder. "No. It's password protected."

"You can't hack around it?"

"I've already hacked more than I should have!" Scott disconnects, and the screen goes blank. "We both could lose our jobs just from the little bit we did here - you know that."

Gunner sighs and folds his arms. "Yeah... I know. I just thought this would be easier."

"Than what?"

"Nothing." Gunner turns around, aiming for the door. "I'll let ya be. See you at work."

"Yeah..." Scott watches him leave, then shakes his head. Why did Gunner want access to someone's hospital records from six months ago? It seemed odd. Oh well... he'd done what he could without breaking too many rules. But if Gunner wanted any more, he'd have to go through the right channels.

Wandering over to the couch, Scott flops down, quickly joined by Domino. It would be a quiet night. Those were the hardest. But he would survive like he always did.


Gage sits curled up in the corner of the spare room on top of the bed. His head rests against the wall, his arms wrapped around his legs. If one would see him, they would believe his mind was a thousand miles away. Maybe it was.

Pulling

Going to go say something Nate stops and gives a sigh. He could see both sides, he could tell both had there own pain.

Turning just a little to see Con Nate shakes his head before looking back to where Jason walked off.

"They are both pulling against each other, one for her pain, and one for his confustion. Sooner or later though someone is going to have to give, or they are going to break."

Turning around to face Con Nate gives a shake as pain was written in his eyes. He hated seeing his friends suffer. And under the layered mask Jason wore Nate could see that pain.

"I dont know what to do eather Con, or say."

Giving a chuckle and a shake of his head Dan takes the hammer and gets back to work with Mick and Katie carrying on lite chatter, and stealing a glance at Katie now and than.

Continuing to work with Mick and Dan Katie moves about with ease, she new her way around the ranch and had been taught well on how to do things.

Babysitter

Seeing the note, Jason's shoulders noticeably drop. He doesn't seem to even hear Nate telling him to do a good job on stage.

"She just can't quit worrying about me, can she?" He shakes his head a little, his tone more tired than upset. "Does she think I can't take care of myself? Does she think I need a babysitter when she's gone?" Wasn't he supposed to be the protector?

Looking down, he sets his hands on his hips. "Thanks Nate, just... keep it in the background, alright? And don't tell Rick I didn't use my crutches all night. I don't need him breathing down my neck too."

Sighing, he turns and heads for the stage, favoring his injured leg.


"I don't know what to do for him anymore." Con had shown up, only now coming around the corner, speaking to Nate. "Reese has got it in for him, he's got it in for himself... and him and Katie... I just don't know."

Note

Giving Jason a smile and a handshake Nate nods. He'd would of come to the consert anyways, but tonight is was for business too and someone had asked him to come. Giving a glance around before his eyes come back to Jason again.

"I wouldn't miss a concert for my life, but tonight I am here on business too."

Nate holds up a small peace of paper for Jason.

Nate,
I'm gonna be gone for a little bit, and I hate to leave Jason without his lookout. Mind doing that for me for a little while? Keep him safe for me ok? -Katie

"I guess even with out the emotions she still worrys huh? Do good up there, and don't try anything to crazy we dont need Rick wondering why you weren't on your crutches."

Nate puts the small ear peace in his ear so he could communicate with the band and gives Jason a nod.

Busy

Scott wraps his arms around Hope, holding her close. As she pulls away, he reaches up to tuck some hair behind her ear. "It was the least I could do," he replies quietly.

He leans down to give her lips a soft kiss before straightening again. "I know it won't be the same, but... at least you'll still be able to help people."


Still prepping for the concert, people begin to file in. The band was ready early, so the guys wander around for a bit, passing the time.

Jason hobbles to the side, having ditches his crutches an hour ago. Rick would kill him, but he didn't care. He had a concert to perform. Taking a swig of water, he's met with a flying bottle of orange juice instead. Catching it mid-air, he glance around to find Jen and gives her a smirk. "Thanks."

He switches drinks, though knows that his sugar levels weren't quite as erratic now that his emotions didn't get in the way. Looking around, he wanders down to where he saw a familiar face. "Hey, Nate. Joining the fun?


Seeing Dan return and give the flower to Katie, Mick rolls his eyes and mutters something under his breath about hiring a romeo. He throws Dan a look. "Glad the fence is good down there. That cuts our time down, that is, if we pick up a hammer instead of a flower." He hands Dan a hammer. "Here. Keep your hands busy."

He moves off to the side where they'd brought some wire yesterday with the four-wheelers.

Lone Flower

Giving a smile to Scott as he comes into the hall Hope is quiet for a long moment. Before taking a step forward and pulling Scott into a hug.

"Thank you Scott for convincing Reese to give me a chance."

Pulling away Hope searchs his eyes as her own dance. She was excited about her new job opertunity and ever more excited that Scott had done this for her.

Looking at her Uncle Bree shakes her head continuing to clean everything up.

"He's sure is interesting. I think he's pretty nice too."

Even if he was a bit strange she was a bit strange as well. He seemed nice but something still seemed off. For now it would slide but she would stay on guard.

Shaking her head and giving a smile to her Uncle Katie gives a chuckle holding the bag open to him. Looking up hearing a noise Katie see Dan making his way back over.

"Speak and he will come."

Walking back over to Mick and Katie Dan takes a whip to his face to get ride of the dirt and sweat. It had taken him longer than he wanted but along the way back he had made one stop. Turning to Katie Dan holds out a purple wild flower.

"I saw this one lone flower and it made me think of you. A flower by itself but never truly alone."

Turning back to Mick Dan gives a nod.

"I had to fix a little bit of the fence the staples didn't hold but they should now. Its secure."

Good night

Scott looks up quickly from his desk, a little surprised to see Hope standing there. She looked happy though... it didn't seem like anything was wrong.

"Um, sure." It was a little peculiar she just didn't come out and say whatever it was, but he didn't mimnd.

Getting up from his chair, he wanders out of the office into the quiet hall. A soft smile surfaces as he looks at Hope, tucking his hands in his pockets. "Hi... what's up?"


Gunner tosses a wink at Bree. "Right... I'll see ya." Giving a final nod to JT, he slips outside, making his way to his car.

JT watches him leave and just stands shaking his head for a moment. Shutting the door, he turns back to his niece. "Well that was... fun." He grins and rolls his eyes. "I haven't laugh that hard in a long time. He's something else, isn't he?"


Jason plugs in the chords, sets his guitars up, runs wiring and helps with a quick sound check. Everything seemed to be running smoothly. He was a little on edge... something just didn't feel right tonight but so far so good. Rocky had shown up too to help unload equipment, and Axel was there too, helping set up the sound board as much as he could. Apparently Jess was going to show up too, and Jason knew a few people from TJY were going to come. It was going to be a good night.


Mick smiles as Katie talked. She had a good head on her shoulders. For now, he lets the subject slide away. She had enough to worry about.

"I just needed one of the bags," he answers, dumping his handful of staples into one. "I forgot to bring a bag for these."

He glances over his shoulder, down the line. "What is taking that boy so long?"

Owe Someone

Listing to Mick Katie was thankful for him impute, though she already new in her mind what had to happen before she went back. Before returning to Jason, Katie had to find the woman she once was, and her own wounds had to be healed.

"My head will be clear before I go back, and my mind will be healed. My goal is going back, but until I find myself and who I once was again my goal is far from reach. Thank you Uncle Mick for your input on the matter. Sometimes it helps seeing other peoples point of views."

Finishing taking off her section of wire Katie stands and stretches a little. Looking to the horse that Mick had nodded to Katie gives a swift job to them grabbing one of the packs and bringing it back.

"What did you need me to get out of it?"

Hope gives a nod to Reese as she stands. She felt over joyed and a bit over whelmed at the moment, but she had to go and thank the one who had helped this along.

"Just call me, and let me know when ever. I think I owe someone my thanks."

Turning Hope heads out of Reese officne and through the TJY follow smiling the whole way. Stopping at a new office and giving a soft knock Hope enters. Seeing Dalton sitting at one deks she gives a smile and nod before looking over to Scott.

"Hey Scott, I was wondering if I could talk to you for a moment?"

Giving a laugh at Gunners story comes to an end Bree hadn't laughed so hard in her life. Finishing off her can of pop she takes in a deep breath trying to control herself. It had been a good last few hours. It was nice to just lose oneself and pig out, even if all you were eating a bunch of toppings warmed up without the crust.

"Actually, I dont mind your company Gunner. Maybe next time I can offer some of my own strange storys and make you laugh equily hard."

Giving a smile and nod to Gunner Bree starts to clean up a few different things that were on the table. Picking up the plates, and napkins before looking at Gunner again.

"I am sure I will see you again. If I dont than your not a true stalker eh?"

Trick

Reese smiles and nods. "Good... and don't thank me." He gives her a knowing look. He knew she was smart enough to figure out who had instigated this. "I think you know who to thank though."

He straightens a little and glances around his desk. "Well... let me do some figuring, talk to Brown and... I will call you to let you know when you'll start. It should be soon."


Gunner gives Bree a sly look. "I like to harass my boss and... I never guess." He takes a sip of coffee, sighing deeply. "I like being on the Elite force. I go around catching bad guys and during downtime doing paperwork. Not exactly the romantic job some people think it is, but... it's what I do."

JT cocks his head. "The Elite huh... You wouldn't happen to know Greg Timble, would you?"

"I know of him." Gunner nods. "Retired right? One of the very first to find out about the Texas gang being mistreated by the Agency."

"That would be him."

"Your uncle, right?"

"For someone who asks a lot of questions, you sure know a lot to begin with."

Gunner's grin slides across his lips. "If you revealed all the cards in your hand before placing your bet, you'd never win a poker game."

Two hours later...

"...and I said, 'Dude, get outta there or you ain't never gonna see another one of them cars!'"

JT laughs so hard at Gunner's story, his eyes start to water as he holds his sides.

Gunner's own face is a bit flushed and his own short laugh escapes, just watching JT laugh. He takes another sip of soda pop, finishing off his second can. Sitting in the living room, the three had been talking and mostly laughing since after they'd polished off the entire pizza. Despite Gunner's dry sense of humor, stories of blundering fugitives cracked JT up, and in turn, made the whole thing very funny.

JT takes a deep breath, wiping his eyes. "Oh... now that is a classic."

"Chris didn't think so."

JT snickers again. "I bet not."

Gunner glances up at the clock, realizing he'd been there much longer than planned. "Well... I guess I better not wear out my welcome." Standing up, he stretches tall. He was far from tired though - he had enough caffeine in him to last three days.

JT stands as well. From what had started out as an awkward evening, had evolved a night of fun. He offers a handshake to Gunner. "Well... come back sometime, Gunner."

"I might just do that." Gunner glances to Bree on the couch. "If your niece doesn't object. She might want the company without the Gunner next time."


Mick keeps his eyes on the wire, pulling out the large staples from the fence posts. He listens quietly, giving a little nod, but not saying much until after he's mulled it over.

"A clear head is something we all need once in a while. Trick is, knowing when it's clear enough to go back." He continues to concentrate on work. "Sometimes the pursuit of a certain feeling holds us back, rather than helping us move forward. We want to reach a specific point in our minds before returning, when it's the actual returning that will help us finally reach our goal."

Holding several old staples in his hand, he nods to the horses. "Would you go grab one of those saddle bags for me?"

Gunner the Stalker

Shaking her head with a serous look only her eyes still sparkle while no other emotion shown.

Walking over to Gunner's cup for a moment Bree searches his eyes looking deep into them like she was perching the hard shell. A moment ago she could sense a change almost as if something just didn't add up. But trying to brush the feeling away Bree new it was none of her business and figured to just stay out of it. Finally breaking her gaze Bree takes Gunner's cup.

" You have to make it hard don't you? Its easy to take the fee out but didn't you know its hard to put it back in?"

Giving Gunner a grin Bree dumps the coffee out in the sink only to pour more into the glass from the same pot this time just adding a little bit of sugar and handing it back to Gunner. Turning she heads to the other side of the table to sit across from him. Taking a sip of her own coffee she inquired.

"So Gunner the Stalker when your not harassing waitress and guessing where people work what do you like doing?"

Sitting down in the chair across from Reese Hope just blinks at him for a moment. From the second he had come in the office to now, he never stopped to take a break from talking or even let her get a word in. For a moment she felt over welled and wasn't sure what to say only just being able to blink at Reese.

"Well...I...."

Finally a chuckle comes from Hope as its really all she can do at the moment. Everything happened fast but she could help the small warmth that entered her heart. No names were said on the person who would have quit, but Hope already new.

"Yes, I'd like to give it a shot. When God gives us a blessing, who am I to say I don't want it. Thank you Reese."

Stopping for a moment and grabbing the hankercheaf she had in her back pocket Katie rolls it up before tieing it around her head to catch the sweat that was forming.

Giving Mick a smile Katie gets back to work as she talks.

"Yeah, I still like it. Its nice catching the bad guys, and helping people. Its nice being able to watch over people and know your keeping them safe."

Looking up at Mick again Katie's eyes held a strange glint to them. Maybe that was one reason she hated not hated not having the connection with Jason, she couldn't be there to when he needed her.

Though she was worn out now and maybe tired, and her brain was scrambled she did miss her job and couldn't wait to have a clear head again so she could get back.

"I have to have a clear head though, so...some time and rest away will be good."

Threatened to quit

Gunner weighs his options, not having really expected Bree to suggest he still stay. He'd invaded their evening, no doubt, and had just offended her uncle. She hadn't lost any humor over it though.

He cocks his head, then glances to JT. "You want someone like me hanging around?"

JT sees Bree trying to get Gunner to stay, and he forces himself to relax, letting his own small smile form. "Someone like you? You're just trying to get your job done. I know what it's like trying to meet quotas and having to report to the big guys. I've never been on the police force myself, but... I can imagine solving any case is pretty good in the chief's eyes, even if it is just to earn a few extra points."

JT couldn't have been further from the truth, but Gunner forces a little chuckle anyway. "Got me all figured out, eh? Chief's been breathing down my neck, the judge keeps putting off that warrant and well, you know." Gunner shrugs, letting his act play out. "Your name came up, and I wanted to see you sometime anyway just for old time's sake so..."

"Killing two birds with one stone?"

"Yeah, something like that."

JT nods. "Well that's alright. I'm glad you stopped by. I always like seeing old patients, though I guess you really weren't mine at the time... Did you... ever regain your memory?"

"No... no." Gunner shakes his head. "Guess I wouldn't want to find out I was a butthead the first eighteen years of my life anyway."

JT laughs. "That might be a bit of a downer." He sighs and looks back to his niece, then to Gunner again. "Well, can't say I haven't cut a corner or two myself. I won't be offended you asked for information off the books if you won't be offended I said no."

Gunner grins a little. "Sounds good to me."

"Good. Then you'll stay for supper. I don't want to endure Bree's antics here all by myself anyway."

Gunner chuckles and moves to sit down at the kitchen table. "Hey, Bree..." He looks over to the coffee pot. "I changed my mind. Can you put the fee back in there?"


Reese busies himself with work until a while later when Hope shows up at TJY. Having her sit in his office, he leans back in his chair, obviously having been thinking very hard about something.

"Hope, I have a proposition for you... for two reasons. One, because it might be one of the answers to something I've been wanting, and two, because I have an agent who has threatened to quit if I don't give you a chance."

He taps his leg absentmindedly. "Now I'm aware of your present situation, but let's leave that aside for now. You see... even after you evaluations of several of the men here, we're in constant need of someone like you. We're in the process of finding a place for Gage to live, Phinox to live, and we're also looking for some kind of a program for Alec. However, they still need more help than we can give, and so do others around here. People like them who need to be reintroduced into society... people like Scott who have been through trauma and need to work things through..."

Reese pauses and leans forward with his hands on the desk, clearly excited about the possibilities. "Here's my dream... that we can provide the best help for these people. I... I can't just leave a man behind, no matter what his past is. The people here... they're like my family and I feel responsible for all of them. But we can't offer help, unless we have the people that can do it. We need a counselor, Hope... we need someone like you. We also need a facility where we can send people like Alec and get them into a rehabilitation program. I don't know where that is yet, but we have to work on the first step first. And that first step is you."

He pauses again, making sure Hope is following him. "I know this isn't what you're used to... it's not your own practice. But as I understand it, that's part of the agreement from your court hearing. Here, you would be under the board of the Elite, funded by the state. You would be ranked as an Elite agent, supervised by myself, whom you would report to. We would provide a place for you to see clients, either here or offsite, whatever we decide later. Things would start out slowly but... you would be put on salary so you wouldn't have to worry about exact hours and... well..." He shrugs. "This plan was presented to me several days ago and I can't ignore it. What are your thoughts?"


Mick just keeps right on working, nodding casually at Katie's response. "This place is quite a place to miss... seems like it touches everybody in a different way, and nobody ever forgets it."

He keeps working for a few minutes, quiet until he speaks to her again. "How have things worked out with you and the Elite? I remember when you left here, how much you wanted to go... still enjoying that kind of work?"

Go to Wast

Giving a nod to Mick Katie goes over to the pile of tools and grabs herself a hammer than back to the posts where she starts to work.

Its quiet before Katie answers Mick playing his question in her mind. There really was no answer for it, but Katie tried to form on anyways.

"I don't really know. It wont be forever, but I wont be leaving tomorrow eather. It feels nice to be back I've missed it here."

Continuing to work Katie gives Mick a sidelong glance, wondering if his question had a reason to it, or it really was just a question for conversation.

Listening to her Uncle and Gunner talk Bree kept quiet. This was really none of her business, and it would be best to just stay silent. Seeing the disappointment flash in Gunner eyes Bree couldn't help but feel sorry for him even if she did understand her Uncles reason and wouldn't have done it differently herself.

Watching Gunner ready to leave Bree places two cups of coffee on the table and going back for a third. Her eyes following him for a moment before she speaks.

"We could forget you were here but, that would take alot of work to try and forget a big guy like you..."

A twinkle forms in Bree's eye to show she was in no way picking on Gunner just simply stating a fact.

"... Not to mention I have an extra coffee here without the fee. It will just got to wast if you don't drink it."

Rubbing her eyes as she brings the phone to her ear, Hope was still half asleep. Since she was out of a job she seemed more tired than normal and just had a lack of energy. This time she must have fallen sleep on the couch.

Not sure if she hear Reese right Hope is silent for a moment wondering what kind of business matter he could want to talk to her about. Thinking maybe it had something to do with Scott Hope sits up.

"Yeah, give me about an hour and I will be there."

Forget

Mick watches Dan leave, his own smirk on his face before getting to work. Seeing Katie with her phone, he wonders, but doesn't ask.

Getting a a few of the tools out, he gestures down to some posts. "Well, we need to replace some of this wire here, but we have to remove the old first, so if you wanna grab a hammer and get to work, that's a good place to start."

Moving along to one of the posts, he pauses, throwing Katie a sidelong glance. "So..." His tone is casual. "How long are you planning to stay?"


"Mmm." Gunner taps his temple. "I know what a bump to the head feels like. Thankfully, I came out of it completely normal." He stops a moment, grinning just a little.

Spying a couple pictures on the wall, he wanders over to study them, looking at all the faces closely, almost as if searching for something, or someone.

"Pizza will be half an hour," JT announces. "In the meantime... Gunner... how about you explain why you're here?"

Gunner backs away from the wall and straightens just a little, hooking his thumbs in his pockets. "Well, I'm after some information. It's for a case I'm working on."

JT quirks an eyebrow. "Is this... official police business then?"

"I'm not on the clock at the moment," Gunner admits, "but this is a case I've made a commitment to."

"I see."

"About six months ago, there was a man with a gunshot wound to his shoulder. You helped patch him up. His name was Rex Herschen. Do you remember?"

JT gives Bree a wary glance before looking back to Gunner. "Yes... I believe I remember him. As far as I know, an official report was filed."

"It was. Except parts of the report were apparently lost. Rex is a man I'm looking for. He has some information I need. I know the hospital would still hold the records, and there would be some form of contact there."

JT folds his arms, clearly not liking what he was hearing. "Since you're off the clock... what you're asking for is confidential. The hospital is protected by privacy laws, even if you produced a warrant, which I'm guessing you don't have."

Gunner doesn't even blink. "I'm aware of the laws. I also know that you personally keep records of all the patients you tend to, and you have access to all of those files yourself."

"You're... asking me to get the information for you... to break the rules just because I can?"

"I need to know where to find Rex. I can't find him any other way right now, and that would give me the starting point I need."

JT slowly shakes his head. "I'm sorry but... I can't do that, Gunner. I don't know anything about this case but... I just can't justify that in my mind. You'll have to produce a warrant and go to the hospital administration if you want access to any of the records."

"Going through the right channels, I'll just get the runaround, you know that."

"Then I'm sorry." JT refuses to back down. "There's nothing more I can do."

Disappointment clearly flashes in Gunner's eyes, though he doesn't let his body language show it. "Well, I can't blame you for your moral standards. It was worth a try." He rocks on his heels, knowing JT didn't approve, and now feeling awkward. "I guess... maybe three would be a crowd tonight. How about I just leave you two to your evening and... you can just forget I dropped by?"


Rick sighs and sinks down in his chair, shaking his head. "I don't know what else to do, Misty. I can't give up... I won't give up... but whatever this is... I'm afraid even if we find an answer it might be too late. Jeff is good at covering up... I'm not sure he's even got as much time as I hope he does."


"Hope..." Reese holds his phone to his ear after dialing the number Scott had given him. "This is Mike Reese. When you have time, at your earliest convenience, I'd like to speak with you about a business matter..."

Hit on the head

Getting to there destination Katie hopes off her horse and ties her to a nearby post in a bit of shades. Giving a smile to Dan as she walks back over to Mick.

On the way up they had all talked and though Dan skitted around talking about much of his own past Katie did get to know a little bit about him. He seemed like a nice guy.

Hearing Micks directions Dan look at him and gives a smerk saying thanks alot. Turning to head over to where they had worked yesterday He throws Mick a wink to show him he really wasnt irritated.

"Yeah no problem boss."

Going over next to Mick Katie helps unload some of the stuff they had brought with them putting on her own work gloves. Feeling her phone vibrate though Katie takes her one glove off just in time to feel it stop. Pulling her phone out anyways Katie look at the number and see its Jason. There was no voicemail and it had hardly even done one ring, why had he bothered to call if he was just going to hang up?

Holding a confused look on her face for a moment Katie puts her phone back in her pocket and than puts her glove back on before joining Mick again. She was hurt that Jason hadnt bothered to leave a message but what more could she do?

"Ok what are we going to start with?"

Smiling as she continues to make the coffee she looks up at Gunner and gives a shake of her head. She liked it when her Uncle played along with what she said no matter how strange it was.

"Nah, he just like to humor me that all. I'm the only strange on in the family."

Pouring the water in and setting the pot Bree thinks for a long moment before answering. It had been a while since she could remeber realling being...normal.

"Yeah we are pretty close. When I was real little, I got as pretty bad hit to the head. Probably one that should of killed me, but I lived and since that I had always been a little strange I guess you could say. JT is really the only one who gets me and doesn't think I belong in a nut house."

Looking up from her desk Misty gives a sigh. She was happy Jeff was going to be with his family but she was sad to see him go without knowing the cure to what was wrong.

"Rick what can I do to help? We cant let him...we just cant."

Ended call

Mick gives a little smirk at Dan. "Little hasty there, aren't we?" A teasing tone laces his question at how fast Dan had apparently wanted Katie along.

He looks to Katie and gives her a wink. "I'd never say no to you, you know that. Come on."

Checking the saddle girth one more time, Mick swings up onto his mount's back, aiming her for the trail that would lead to the north pasture, far enough away that they couldn't see it from here.

Staying at an easy pace, Mick lets the mare walk, taking the lead. The trail winds off into the woods for a while and they cross a shallow brook, continuing their route.

Once they finally reach their destination, Mick dismounts, surveying the area of fence that needed to be fixed. "Katie, why don't you help me here a bit... Dan, would you ride down a ways and check to make sure the horses didn't tear apart the work we did a few days ago?"


Jason hobbles back into his office on crutches, flopping back down in his chair. He groans as he sees more paperwork from Reese. Before diving in though, he happens to check his phone, surprised there is a voicemail waiting.

Hearing Katie's brief message, he leans back in his seat. That had been... short. Her voice had sounded... strained? Stressed? Tired? Or was it just his imagination? It seemed the kind of message that maybe she just felt she should make, rather than really wanting to. After all, it was a rarity for her to miss a concert. Had she just felt it her job to mention it? Or had she really wanted to talk to him? He couldn't tell.

So should he call her back? He starts to dial. Surely she was busy doing something around the ranch. He wouldn't want to interrupt her, and what if he'd read her wrong? What if the message really was just meant to be brief and was a hint that she didn't want any conversation?

Looking down, Jason realizes the call has connected and it's ringing. He shuts his phone quickly, tossing it back on his desk with a growl. If Katie wanted to talk, she'd let him know... right?


Gunner quirks an eyebrow, his mouth remaining solemn. "I'll stay, but only if you keep the fee out of the coffee. I'd rather end up with a cough than have to pay for it."

JT rolls his eyes. "How I ended up in the middle of this, I don't know. Brent, you're more than welcome to stay and eat with us, if you like. Apparently my niece isn't going to wait."

"Call me Gunner and..." He finally lets a smile slip. "Pizza sounds good, but I don't want to intrude."

"Nah." JT waves him off. "A little company never hurt anybody. Besides, I want to hear what you have to say."

"Alright." Gunner shrugs, accepting the offer.

JT steps away to dial the pizza place finally, putting in the order for a pizza with mixed veggies, sausage and canadian bacon. "Oh and only use dough on half... yeah, half.... well I don't care how you get it done, we only want crust on half the pizza..."

Listening to one side of the conversation, Gunner shakes his head and ambles into the kitchen where Bree was. "Must run in the family eh?" He leans against the counter, watching her make the coffee. His badge was hooked to his belt, but he wore no sidearm. "I see you and your uncle spend a lot of time together. You're close?"


"I don't think traveling is wise." Rick tries to keep Jeff from leaving the TJY building, but Jeff keeps walking to the exit, slowly, but with determination.

"Look, I'll get on a plane. The whole trip will only last a couple hours then I'll be back at the ranch, safe and sound."

"You're not safe or sound," Rick retorts. "If you stay here, I can keep doing research."

Jeff stops at the door, turning around. "Would you rather die here or where your home is?"

Rick swallows hard, his shoulders drooping. "Alright... I'm... I'm sorry, Jeff. I'll keep looking for an answer."

"Don't apologize." Jeff shrugs. "It's just... life."

"You've got the medication?"

"Yeah, it'll last me a while." Jeff pats his pocket. "I'll see Angel too so... I'm sure she'll be in touch with you too."

Dirty

Even when time it at its best, the hours slip by. No matter how drawn out, or quick they go by the same. The sun will rise, and the sun will sink welcoming a new day tomorrow.

Getting up on her knees and looking over the back of the couch Bree can't help the fant smile the formed on her lips.

"And the stalker continues to stalk me. And this time your the one who followed me here."

Turning on the couch again to shut the folder that she and JT were looking at Bree stands coming closer to both of the men.

"No I cant wait or my stomach is going to eat itself."

Bree eyes twinkled as she ved off and headed to the kitchen.

"I'll make some coffee, Gunner you will stay for pizza, Uncle JT call for the pizza and make it with no dough this time. Than we can all talk."

Trotting up behind Mick Dan gives a smile and stops the horse. Mick had invited him to come along once again to help and he couldnt help but feel a certain pride to know Mick wanted his help.

"Hey Mick, I hope you offer is still open to help with the fence."

Getting down off his horse Dan leads him over to a fence post and ties to horse off to see if Mick needed any help gathering things up.

Sitting in the barn her horse was all ready to go but for the moment Katie didn't move.

Over the last few days she had delt with alot. She been getting sick, her head always felt like it was splitting open and the one night she woke from a horrible nightmare. It had been on that night she was happy to have shared a room to herself. It had been on that night she had called Jason for comfort as well but got no answer. She wanted to leave a message but hadn't. If he wanted to talk to her he would of called back right? But how else would he have known she wanted to talk to him she hadnt even left a message.

Taking a sigh again Katie plays with the phone in her hand. Tonight was a consert and it would be the first since she had told the guys she would be there bodyguard. Even when her and Jason went together she was still there every show. It seemed strange to think now, now she wouldn't.

Dialing Jason's number Katie lets the phone ring. She had to at least wish him good luck and let Jason know she was thinking of him. Continuing to let it ring Katie finally gets his voice mail. Letting out a long sigh she had to leave a message.

"Hey J, I... Good Luck tonight."

Hanging up Katie new it was short but at least it was something. Holding the phone to her chest Katie lets out a long sigh choking on a tear before taking the horse by the lead and going outside.

Coming up behind Dan and Mick Katie gives a small smile seeing as they were ready to go out. Maybe she just needed to lose herself today. Try and drown her own mind and be useful.

"Hey Uncle Mick, I was wondering if you needed an extra pare of hands out there today?"

Looking up quickly at Katie's voice Dan smiles at her as he removes his stetson from the top of his head.

"I think an extra pare of hands would be great as long as you dont mind getting dirty right Mick?"

Dan shoots Mick a quick look.

Katie cant help a small laugh before looking at her Uncle and shaking her head.

"You can tell he's new. Of course I dont mind getting dirty"

Update

With a deep sigh, Clint nods. He leans his head in to kiss Wendy's forehead. "Yeah... yeah, we can get back to our own bunkhouse. They don't mean to keep Chase from you... they're just trying to give you less things to worry about. I'm... kinda glad our moms have stepped in to ease some of that pressure."

He rubs her arm tenderly before his hand finds hers. "But we'll get back to our own place tonight, okay? And then... then by late springtime, maybe our house will be done."


Time has a way of slipping through our fingers, no matter how hard we try to hold it in the palm of our hands. Plans drift away, we age and we sometimes feel it has been unfair. But time pays no heed. And for Texas and Nevada, several days pass without slowing.


"Alright. That's it." JT tosses the rest of the paperwork onto the coffee table. It had been three days, and he and Bree were back at it, but this time, he wasn't going to spend hours pouring over these cases. He cared about each and every patient, but there was a point where he and his niece needed some time out. "Pizza time."

He heads for the phone, dressed in his loose jeans and t-shirt, shuffling in his socks. The routine rarely changed - when Bree came over, pizza was inevitable. They would always change toppings though, sometimes coming up with some pretty strange combinations. JT enjoyed the time with his niece... she was a large part of his social life, whether she realized it or not.

He's got the cordless phone in hand, ready to dial the pizza place, when the doorbell rings. "Aw..." Heading to the door, he looks out, not recognizing who was there. Shrugging, he opens it a few inches. "Yes?"

"Hi, Dr. Timble?"

"Yes... Can I help you?"

"I hope so. Do you have a few minutes to talk?"

JT studies the badge that's shown to him. "Um... okay." He backs up, opening the door wider. "Come in."

Gunner steps inside, scanning the entryway and into the living room. An ever-so-faint smile plays at the corner of his mouth. "I see you have company. Perhaps another time would be better?"

"Well.. am I in some kind of trouble?"

"No, no." Gunner shakes his head. "You probably don't remember me..."

JT's eyes narrow as he thinks hard. He didn't recognize this man. He studies Gunner's face, then his eyes move up, catching the patch of gray hair. His eyes widen slightly. "Brent..."

Gunner nods. "The one and only. I imagine your memory has already been stimulated by your niece."

"Yes, how did you-"

"Good guess." Gunner extends his hand. "Always figured I'd see you again someday. I guess I need your help again, but this time it isn't medical."

"Well... we were just ready to order out for supper, but it can wait..."

"No, I don't want to intrude." Gunner shakes his head. "I can come back another time."

JT is too curious though, and calls over his shoulder. "Bree? Can you stand waiting on supper just a little longer?"


Scott leans back in his chair, lost in thought like he had been a lot the last few days. Ever since Hope's court case, he just couldn't help it. He knew there had to be an answer somewhere. He'd toyed with an idea of his for a while now, and knew it was time to say something.

Getting up abruptly, he doesn't even bother telling Dalton where he's running off to. He heads across the main floor to Reese' office.


Mom,
Just wanted to drop you an email since I hadn't in a while. Finally getting around to answering you. Sorry. Been busy lately. Reese has been on my case...

"Jason!" Reese storms into Jason's office, clutching papers in his hand. "I told you to fill out a report, not butcher this case!"

Jason frowns, glaring up at his boss. "I wrote down what happened! You want a better description, ask Con."

"I'm sick and tired of your attitude, Hotshot," Reese growls. "You know better than this, and I expect to see it. You've been sloppy lately and you know it. Now shape up."

I guess maybe I deserve some of it, I don't know. Sometimes it feels like he's got it in for me. He's been teaming me up with Con lately though and that's brought back good memories. We've taken down a few bad guys. Nothing major though...

"Holy cow, what happened?" Rick rushes down through the cubicles towards Con and Jason. Jason had his arm around Con's shoulder, dragging his right leg as blood poured from a wound.

"Caught a bullet." Con tries to catch his breath from having helped Jason in. "Things got rough down at the bar and it got out of hand."

"Apparently."

Jason winces as he keeps heading towards the infirmary, limping. It was the first time in a long time that physical pain was as raw as this. Without emotions wrapped around it, he couldn't decide if it felt worse or better. At least this time Katie didn't have to worry about him.

Jason pauses his typing to shift in his seat. His leg was throbbing. He didn't know which hurt more - the bullet hole or his knee in its brace. Reese had slacked off a bit since he'd been hurt, but Jason was miserable. He couldn't seem to do anything right.

Tonight JetStream's got a concert. Looking forward to that. Axel's gonna come and help Jen again. I'm glad he's got time. He's been on medical leave, did I tell you that? Hasn't been able to move his hand now for a couple weeks - don't know what his future looks like. The band appreciates his help though.

Jason stops again. Tonight they were without Katie. Katie... A couple days ago he'd seen that she'd called his cell phone but... she hadn't left any message for him. He'd wanted to call her back but... if she'd really wanted to talk to him, she would have left a message, right? Or maybe she'd just misdialed. Maybe it was for the best... he wasn't sure what to say to her anyway. It felt so... awkward. But maybe this was good for them.

Pulling the cord on his neck, he pulls the ring out from under his shirt, fingering it. Were he and Katie over? His headaches had subsided... the antidote apparently was doing its job. But deep down, there was a dull ache, somewhere around his heart.

A sharp pain through his leg brings him back to the present, and back to his email.

Good news - Scott's been back to work. Last couple days he's just been here half days. I'm not sure he's feeling quite up to full-time yet, but he's trying. You might mention it to some of the people there at the ranch - they seemed to have grown fond of him after he'd been there a couple times.

Anyway... I guess there isn't too much else to tell. I'd like to come down for a few days. Don't tell anyone yet - I don't know when it will be. I'd like to spend some time writing some of my music and I want to see Kaylee again.

Tell Wes hi. More later.
Love, Jase


Mick brushes down one of the horses, preparing to saddle up. The north fence had been in worse shape than he'd thought, and it was taking several days to fix. He'd asked Dan if he wanted to join him, but not requiring it, he wasn't sure if the young man would join him or not.

The mare turns her head and lips Mick's shirt sleeve.

He grins and gives her neck a loving pat. "Yeah, give me a minute. We'll get going here soon."

Home

Feeling Clint get on the bed next to her Wendy brings her own arms up to him and gives him a squeeze back letting him know she was there. It hurt all over, and her heart hurt even more but she new they had to move on. In a soft whisper of a voice Wendy turns her head sideways to look at Clint a little bit before rolling over to face him. Her eyes had been absent of tears for a while now it was only her heart that continued to cry.

"Clint, I'd ready to go home. Back to our bunk house. I am ready to bring Chase there too."

Giving a little bit of her lip Wendy looks down before look up at Clint again.

"I want to hold Chase, and I want him to know his home for now. I am tired of everyone keeping him from me like I am a doll thats going to break. He's our baby he should be with us. Can't we go home now?"

Shaking her head and than laughing again Bree just laughs for the longest moment JT's comment about painting the room forgotten.

Finally with a long gasp of air Bree sits up and looks at JT her face completely straght now as if she had never been laughing at all. Only the red color was proof she had been.

"You relies Uncle JT that you keep saying we need to do this paper work we need to do this paper work like I am the one who has been distracting us but really....you keep bring up everything but work."

Bree cant help the smile that cracks on her face as she stands to give her Uncle a little shove.

"Or order the pizza you goof, pick up your pager and come back here so we can do this. We can have playtime afterwards."

Shaking her head and sitting back down Bree cant help the chuck that still escaped her voice.

Finishing up her packing and closing the box Hope gives a nod to the air around her.

"Ok I can pick you up no problem. How about in a few hours?"

Leaning back against the barn wall Katie lets out a sigh. Listen to her Uncle there was a change in his voice. She could tell and she new it wasnt good. Had it been a good idea for her to leave? What if she could of helped.

"Ok Uncle Jeff, but if you need anything call me."

Getting disconnected from his Uncle Katie tucks the phone into her pocket and leans forward again her elbows on her knees and her face in her hands. She wished Jason was close so she could talk to him. He'd reasure her things would be ok, but right now did Jason even know if they would be?