Hot Mad

Looking up from her work Rosetta lifted an eyebrow at Mick's tone and comment to her. He new where the request off was posted, and where Rosetta always keep the time sheet even if most of the hands worked the same shift each week.

"Well, the request sheet is over there along with the time sheet like normal so I would think each day you would look at it to see who was where so i don't have to remember to tell you everyday?"

Rosetta gives a small chuckle to show she wasnt to upset with Mick. He was always hot to start with, but Rosetta couldnt help but think he looked even better when he was a little upset. but she had though It was just easyer to write it all down for him to look. Between caring for BJ, work, and normal motherly dutys now

"I dont think you have stupid written all over your face today, only "Hi I am Mick, and Rosetta thinks I am hot when I am mad." How ever standing there and yelling at me, does make you looks stupid when I have no idea what on earth your talking about unless it has something to do with the fight you just had with Dan."

Rosetta looks to BJ who was coloring quietly in the corner before looking back to Mick again.

"BJ went to find you, but when he saw you arguing with Jade and Dan he came running back. Is everything ok?"

Stupid

Jason returns the squeeze to Katie's hand. It was an odd feeling... but a good one. He couldn't feel her good emotions like she could his, but yet he knew they were there, intertwined within the unspoken language. It was a sharing of hearts... his emotions flowed to her, giving her more so she could give back again. Back and forth, seamlessly the emotions thrived, broken only when negative emotions were introduced to the flow. He wondered if they would ever be able to conquer it entirely, or if it would always be an untamed beast to be wrestled with.

His eyes meet hers and he realizes that he'd just shared all of that with her. The corner of his mouth crooks a little as he sits up and pulls her closer to him, kissing her forehead.

You don't have to thank me for anything. I'm glad I came... and I'd stay if I could. I'm looking forward to you being back home again too.


Mick grits his teeth against any more words that wanted to come. He felt like they were going in circles without anyone understanding what the other meant, just making the whole thing worse. He hadn't meant to talk down to Dan, and all he wanted to do later was make sure they straightened this whole mess out and get Dan to realize he was a respected ranch hand, while at the same time, a little reminder that Mick had the right to use whatever tone he wanted as boss couldn't hurt. But maybe things had been messed up too much for that now. How on earth had this started again?

Stepping back, he watches as Dan pulls away before groaning and tipping his hat back on his head. Looking up to the sky, he squints at the clouds. "It's days like these, I feel too old for this," he grumbles. So he'd been wrong... it hadn't been what he thought, then on top of it, Dan even had the rest of the day off without him having realized it, making him look even stupider.

Leaving the buckets where they were, Mick aims for the office. Getting inside, he's quick to find Rosetta at the desk. "Why didn't I know Dan had the rest of the day off?" He takes his hat off and slaps it down on the table with frustration. "Do I have stupid written all over my face today or what?"

As soon as he'd said it, he felt sorry. It was rare that he snapped at Rosetta, even rarer when it wasn't even her fault. Sinking down in a chair, he puts his elbows on the table to bury his face in his hands. "I'm sorry," he mumbles, his words muffled in his palms. He knew his wife would be totally clueless as to what had been going on outside. "When did things get so hard?"

Tone

"Than maybe you should watch your own tone when your talking to someone Mick. I never did anything wrong, and I dont know how you came to the conclusion you did but you could of come to be in a differnt way, with a different tone."

Dan hated how small he felt when he had done nothing wrong. Weather Mick was trying to find out what was going on with his daughter or not. Giving a shake of his head again Dan lets out a long sigh. What had he done to deserve this? He hadnt even done anything wrong.

"Thank you for giving me the rest of the day off, seeing as Rosetta had given it off to me already I planed on it anyways. As far as gaving a talk when I get back fine by me but I still didnt do anything wrong so I dont have anything to talk about."

Looking to Jade Dan's eyes held a look of hurt in them. He'd just tryed to do what was right and ended up some how getting in more trouble anyways. Putting the car into gear Dan start forward before anything else could be said. He was angry, he was frustrated and he was hurt He just had to get out of here for now.

Sitting down on the bed next to Jason Katie took his hand in her. It sucked they were parting again but Reese would only allow Jason so much time away but the good think about parting this time is they had there connection that made them feel close still.

"Tell him by the weeks end I will be back to work. I just want some more time to spend with my dad."

Giving Jason's hand a squeeze Katie gives him a big smile as she let her good emotions flow out to him.

Thank you for come J, and for everything else. I cant wait to be home and work side by side you again.

Wrong conclusion

Mick recoils slightly at Dan's tone and words. It takes him a moment to respond, his voice straining against his red-headed temper.

"Well, thank you for your answer, but first off, don't assume you know what I'd do if you'd been in trouble. Second, I have no idea why you think I'm treating you like a child or even disrespecting you. If I wanted to disrespect you, I wouldn't have called you on this. I've been accused of a lot of things, but rarely has it been for a lack of respect. I don't care if you're young enough to be my son - when you work here, I'll treat you like a man, whether I'm asking you to muck out a stall, or asking you to be honest about your relationship with my daughter."

Jade couldn't feel lower. She was mortified. She wanted the ground to swallow her up right then and there.

Mick is still looking Dan in the eye. "Now if you need fresh air, by all means, go get some. But when you come back, I think we need to have a little come to Jesus meeting, you and I."

"He didn't-"

Mick shoots a look in Jade's direction, warning her. "And if what he says is true, then you still need to tell me what's going on because I know dang well you're keeping something from me, and I'll be hanged if I'm going to be the brunt of secrecy."

Jade's eyes well up with tears, her anger not even tough enough to battle against the hurt. Spinning around, she starts quickly for the house.

Mick's eyes return to Dan. It was the righteous look of a father that shone in his stare. It wasn't an anger towards Dan, or even accusation. All he was trying to do was figure out what was bothering his daughter, help her, and keep her safe. He had drawn the wrong conclusion, apparently, and now didn't know what to think. Dan had just gotten in the way at the wrong time. "Don't worry about picking up the bill from the feedshop," he mentions. "You're taking the day off."


Jason zips up his duffel bag and sighs, looking around the bunkhouse. "Well... I think I got everything."

Flopping down on his back, on the bed, he looks over to Katie. "Reese will be happy to have me back by the morning... but he's gonna ask about you too. What do I tell him?"

Wrong

Letting out a long sigh Dan continues back to the ranch. He didnt exspect Jade to understand, but maybe if she was mad at him this was the best way to make Mick not mad anymore. He could tell he was not happy to have him hanging around Jade and maybe he had good reason.

"I'm sorry you feel that way Jade, and this isnt about being on your side or not...its just..this is all I got right now, I need this, I am sorry."

Driving the rest of the way back Dan is quiet. He felt bad that Jade was mad at him, and he hated knowing that a friend he had just made now might be lost but if hadnt have braught her back than everything he said he learned and changed would of been a lie.

Letting Jade get out Dan was ready to pull off again once again making his way back into town but stops as Mick comes up once again. Listing to the two go back and forth Dan cringes. He hated seeing people fight and he couldnt help but feel a little responsible for this one weather it was or not.

Looking up as Mick comes over Dan cant help the color that comes to his face at the question. Now he did feel embarassed, and he felt a little aggravated himself now being accused of such a thing.

"If I was you would fire me anyways so I dont know what the point of telling me if I will lie you are going to fire me. Next I think its a little crazy you talk to me as if I am a child when I am not. I am your employee. I have dont nothing wrong I think a little respect on my part would be nice, frustrated or not."

Shaking his head Dan lets out another sigh. He wasnt a child, he had been through so much and he hated being talk to as if he was one but he had to remember he was talking with his boss and he needs to show some respect as well. Giving a shake of his head Dan lets out another sigh looking up at Mick again.

"Mick, I havent done anything with your daughter other than try to be her friend. She looked like something was bothering her today and needed some fresh air so I offered her a ride into town. Now we are back here again. If thats all you needed to do I'd like to go into town myself because I need some fresh air of my own."

Is there?

Jade looks quickly to Dan, not having thought he would take her back. Her jaw tightens as an irritation builds, heat rising to her face. "I guess nobody's on my side anymore. Maybe Grandma was right... I don't belong here."

Folding her arms, she takes up staring out the window again until the ranch comes into view once more. Why had she even come?

Taken back to the line of bunkhouses, Jade barely waits for the truck to stop before unbuckling and sliding out to the ground. She knew she wasn't treating Dan very well, but he'd been her one chance to get away, and now she didn't even have that. She keeps herself from throwing him a glare though - that might be too much.

Mick is carrying a couple buckets to the barn and stops, looking curiously at the truck just a few feet away. "Jade?"

She doesn't take time to shut the door before she turns to toss him an angry look. "I see you train your ranch hands well."

Mick lifts his eyebrows. "What are you talking about?"

"Neither one of you want me to go with him now. Apparently there's something wrong with me."

"There's not, but I'm glad Dan had the brains to bring you back," Mick retorts. "I think you and I need to have a talk."

"There's nothing to talk about."

"Yes there is! You just deliberately disobeyed me, while still refusing to explain to me what's been going on."

"Nothing has been going on!"

"Then what's the problem?!"

"Nothing!"

Mick had had enough. If Jade wouldn't talk to him, he'd go to the source of his conclusions and this time be more blunt. Setting his buckets down, he takes several strides to the open truck. His expression was one of sheer irritation and frustration. "Dan, I want a straight answer and I want it now. You lie and you're out." He looks the younger man square in the eye. "Is there anything inappropriate going on between you and my daughter?"

I like that

Letting out a long sigh Dan stops the truck by the side of the road. They wernt farm from the ranch by now only 10 or 15 minutes out. Looking over are her Dan gives a small smile and reachs over to give her a pat on the hand.

"Last night, trust me I wasn't embarrassed. As for getting carried away, you were fine. I've been around worse, and I have handled worse. Don't worry about it ok?"

Letting out another sigh Dan starts the truck forward again but turns it around slowly. It would of been nice to have someone in town with him. Someone to talk to but not this way.

"We have to go back Jade. I'm sorry but If you dad said you couldnt come than I have to take you back. I can't risk my job. Its all I have. I am sure you dad has a good reason for you not coming with me, and I dont blame him. I'm sorry Jade."

Just waiting on the couch Thirteen picks at a hole in her pants as she waits for Ryder to come back. Finally as he returns she looks up at him her eyes holding a tired stair. Scooting closer Thirteen puts hear in his lap and closes her eyes. Ryder's words seemed to warm her and bring a small smile to her lips.

"You'll protect me...I...like that. I like being your girl. I dont want you to go away eather."

Feeling comfortable and relaxed Thirteen soon falls into a light sleep her body tired from everything that had happend in the day. Some sleep would help and when she woke maybe everything would be ok again.

Nobody

Ryder's shoulders drop, the humor leaving the atmosphere. Looking at Thirteen, he saw the fear behind her eyes and it hurt. Today had been a lousy day and most of it had been his own fault. They were one step away from being right back at square one.

"I..." He stops, looking down at himself. He was still a mess. "Hang on... just... wait for me."

Heading upstairs two steps at a time, it takes him five minutes to be cleaned up and having clean clothes on, his muddy ones waiting to be washed.

Coming back into the living room, he pads across the carpet in his bare feet, coming around to sit on the couch with Thirteen. Reaching to the small end table, he deletes Reese's message. Sitting quietly for a moment, he the reaches over to tuck Thirteen's hair behind her ear. "I don't know about you, but I'm beat," he mentions softly. "Come here."

Scooting down until he was lying with the armrest as his pillow, he pulls Thirteen down to curl up with him, wrapping his strong arms around her. He would deal with Reese in his own time. "You're not going back to that room," he whispers. "And nobody is gonna send you away. Nobody takes my girl away from me."


Jade leans her head against the window, her tears finally stopped. It takes her several long moments to answer Dan though. There were so many things running through her mind. What was her dad supposed to think? She was hiding something from him. He'd just come to the wrong conclusion. "No... no he wasn't." She sighs deeply. "I've made a mess of everything."

Staring at the passing scenery, her stomach churns. Her dad's words echo in her mind. "Dan... I'm sorry if I got carried away last night." She wasn't normally like that, was she? She'd just wanted so bad to forget everything else, that maybe she'd been too bold. "If I embarrassed you, I'm sorry."

Send me Back

Sinking down on the couch Thirteen leans her head back closing her eyes. Her head was throbbing, and she felt so tired yet it was still the middle of the day. It was such a strange feeling.

Hearing Reese's voice boom through the living room Thirteen cant help but jump not expecting it, and not hearing him upset like that in a long time. She was already on edge today and now this seemed to just add now.

Looking at the TV and than to Ryder Thirteen's eyes hold many questions as what happend at the Zoo slowly slips away and for the time being she forget her worry of that.

"Does this mean we dont have to hide anymore? Why did Reese sound so upset? Will he try and make me stay in that room again? He's not going to send me away again is he?"

Trying not to pay to much mind to what was going on with Jade and Mick he cant help but keep his eye on the mirror and watch what was going on. Neather of them looked happy and Dan wasn't sure why.

Once Jade is in the truck and buckled up Dan gives her a side long glance. Feeling a little strange it felt like something was really wrong. Putting the car into drive Dan moves forward slowly He didnt want to pry but he didnt like this feeling eather.

"Jade...is everything ok? Was your dad ok with you coming along?"

Just drive

"Forget it!"

"Jade, don't you-"

"I'll be back later."

"Jade, get back here this instant!"

Jade continues her stomp towards Dan's truck, ignoring her father's tone of warning. Getting to the truck, she yanks open the door and slips inside, shutting the door just a little hard. Grabbing the seatbelt, she leans forward, trying to hide her tears. "Just drive," she mumbles.

Mick slams a fist into the doorframe of the barn. "Gah!" Knowing some of his brothers were around, he bites his lip and tries to return to work without making any more of a scene.


"Yeah, okay." Though a bit of disappointment shows in Ryder's eyes, he manages a smile. "I'm sorry." He squeezes her hand. "Let's go home. I better get myself cleaned up anyway." He stuffs the business card in his back pocket and leads the way back to the car.

It's a quiet ride, but once they get back to the house, the answering machine has caught a call, and Reese's voice is echoing through the living room. "...er you better have a good explanation, 'cause I do not like what I just saw on the television. I want you in my office because we need to talk." Click.

Ryder's eyes are wide and he goes right for the remote. Plastered on the screen is a news reporter with pictures from the earlier fiasco at the zoo. However, it wasn't the crocodile that was being broadcast at the moment. Rather, it was a humorous angle to a girlfriend getting scared by her boyfriend's stupid stunts.

"Well..." Ryder clears his throat as he sees a picture of him and Thirteen hugging. "I guess the jig's up." He turns to look at Thirteen. He had no idea if he'd be an Elite agent an hour from now.

Maybe Tomorrow

Getting into his truck Dan leans over and turns the radio on trying to find a good channel that would come in on the radio. The truck was old and could use a new sound system so it took a little playing around with.

Glancing out the back window and not seeing Jade return yet Dan continues to play with the radio. I was going to feel strange driving with a woman in the car again but he had learned so much in the time that had past. Now it was time to rebuild, and it was time to start again taking what he learned and living up to it.

Looking up again He can see Jade exiting the barn still talking with Mick though they looked like maybe they were yelling Dan cringed just a little. He hope he hasnt caused the fight saying it was ok for Jade to come with him. Just waiting he new one way or the other Jade would come and let him know if she could go or not.

Listing to Ryder and the manage of the Zoo talk Thirteen is quiet as she keeps her eyes to the ground only looking up a few times. Ryder could work here? Would he always be in danger with the animles? Thirteen new with TJY he was in danger as well but this seemed differnt. Everything would change and where....did she fall into it all?

Finally as they are done talking Thirteen slips her hand into his and looks up at him. Her head hurt, she had, had enough excitement for one day.

"I dont feel good, I think I just want to go home. Maybe tomorrow we can come back?"

You sure?

Ryder's shoulders drop just a little bit. They'd had a setback today and it was his own fault. He'd been careless, and now Thirteen would be scared of him in danger any other time. He swallows his pride though, and nods. "Okay." He wanted to keep her there a little longer... try to walk her around and show her the zoo wasn't a bad place. There were many happy animals here. He wanted to explain that if they released them, most wouldn't know how to survive. He wanted to show her the tiger cubs he'd seen the sign for on their way in. Personally, he wanted to walk around himself and check out the rest of the zoo. But it was his own fault she wasn't ready for that today.

"Come on." Putting an arm around her shoulder, he aims for the path that led back to the entrance. Halfway there, a man steps in their way, stopping them abruptly.

"Excuse me."

Ryder pulls Thirteen to a halt with him. "Yes?"

"You're the man that helped with the crocodile?"

Ryder quirks an eyebrow. He was half caked in mud - what else would he have been doing? "Yeah."

"Here." The man offers him a business card. "I'm the head manager here. I just fired our chief reptile caretaker. You want the job, it's yours."

Ryder's eyes widen as he look at the card, then back at the man. "Well, I-"

"Call me sometime this week. If I don't hear from you by Saturday, I'll find someone else. But we could really use someone like you. The pay's not bad either." The man nods at them both before turning to head back to the office building.

Ryder moves forward slowly, one arm still around Thirteen, his other hand holding the car. "That was... interesting." A lump rose in his throat. He was an Elite agent. How could he give that up to work at a zoo? At the same time though, what good had he been doing at TJY since he'd come to the States?

He stops near the exit gates. "You sure you don't wanna look around?"


“Hey, Dad…”

Mick wanders down the aisle, taking off his leather gloves. “Hey, Babe. What’s up?”

Jade musters up another smile. “Just wanted to let you know that I was gonna hitch a ride with Dan to town. Be back in a while.”

“Wai…uh…” Mick holds up his hand. “He… needs help?”

“No.”

“You need something in town?”

“Not really.” Jade shrugs. “Just… want to get out.”

“I got a couple horses that could use the exercise.”

“Not that kind of “out,” Dad. I’ll be back later, okay?”

“Um… no.” Mick shakes his head. “I’d rather you didn’t go with him.”

Jade stops from going back outside. “What?”

“I said I’d rather you didn’t hitch a ride with Dan.”

“Why not?”

“Because I said so.” Mick plays the father card. “Look, just trust me, alright? You need to go somewhere, you can take a horse, or I’ll even let you borrow the car. Just say so.”

“Dad!” Jade throws up her arms. “What is your problem?”

“I don’t need to explain myself.” Mick eyes his daughter as he aims for the open barn door, not realizing that Dan is anywhere close. “I have my reasons and that’s all you need to know.”

Jade grits her teeth, crossing her arms. “What, is this about last night or something? You don’t like it that we had a good time? Jealous? Over-protective? What is it?”

“I heard you did have a good time,” Mick retorts. “Which is more than I got out of you.”

Jade frowns. “What on earth are you talking about?”

“Look, your behavior could have been a little more conservative last night, that’s all. I don’t think you should be flaunting yourself at Dan at every opportunity.”

“Flaunting?!” Jade’s eyes widen. “What were you doing? Spying? Who did you send to check up on us?!”

“No.” Mick sighs with frustration as he stops right at the barn entrance, trying not to become too agitated. “I just don’t understand, Jade. Did something happen last night that you don’t want to talk about? Is there some reason you want to get all cozy with Dan all of a sudden?”

Jade’s face turns at least three shades of red. Her voice comes out in a low hiss. “I cannot believe what you are insinuating. I was perfectly behaved last night, and if you think that anything other than some friendly conversation went on last night, you should be ashamed of yourself because you obviously don’t trust me, or the others who were there too.”

“All I heard is that you were the biggest flirt at the alley,” Mick retorts in exasperation.

Jade’s jaw drops. “Wha… who… who told you that?”

“It doesn’t matter.”

“Yes it does!” Jade’s eyes flicker with anger as he recalls some of the scenes from last night. “It was Jason, wasn’t it? You purposely had him keep an eye on me, didn’t you? Like a little snitch, you had him watch me, then report to Daddy when we got home, is that it?”

Mick’s temper is nearing its limit and his jaw muscles work back and forth. “Apparently you needed to be watched.” He hadn’t been happy to hear that she’d been a royal flirt, and he swings the conversation back around. “As for today, the answer is still no. You need to go to town, go. But not with Dan.”

“I’m eighteen years old!” Jade raises her voice. “I’m not a little girl anymore and you can’t just order me around!”

“You’re here? At this ranch? It’s my word that goes,” Mick reminds sternly. “Now if there’s anything else you’d like to tell me that you’ve been hiding, now would be a good time.”

“Else? Else?!” Jade doesn’t realize she’s almost standing outside now. “First you accuse me of doing who knows what, now you think there’s more?”

“I know when you’re keeping something from me, Jade! I’m your father. If you’re not going to tell me, I’ll find out the hard way, but I don’t think you want that.”

Jade can feel the lump rising in her throat. “It’s none of your concern.”

“It is, if it has to do with you and an employee of mine, it does.”

“Are you out of your mind?!”

“Then tell me what’s going on!”

“So I flirted! So what?!” A tear rolls down Jade’s face. “Who are you to judge, huh? You don’t know half of what my life is like, so don’t stand there and pretend you know all the ins and outs of what your little girl needs. You’ve got some freakish idea that I’m going behind your back with your ranch hand and I don’t even know why.”

“Do you deny it?!”

“Yes!”

Please

Looking up at Ryder she saw he was ok, but it didnt stop the fear she had inside. Being pulled into Ryder's hug Thirteen feels a little bit of comfort in his arms but her heart still raced and she still felt a little shaky.

"I'm not mad at you. I am just upset in general with this whole thing."

It was true, she was upset with the zoo, she was upset with herself for not being stronger, she was upset with Ryder but not mad. Everything had just been piled into one and that made it worse.

"Next time?? Does there have to be a next time, I..."

Thirteen cuts her words off before she says them. It wasnt always about her and with this situation it wasnt eather. If she said what she wanted than she would sound selfish and she didn't want that.

"Can we go now please?"

Next time

Ryder's eyes widen as he gets hit in the arm, and his initial reaction is to recoil in irritation. But then he sees Thirteen's tears. Hearing her wavering voice, he suddenly realizes what he'd just done. And he feels terrible. "Aw, Thirteen."

He hangs his head, closing his eyes for a moment before looking back up at her. He hadn't been thinking. He thought she'd be okay at the back of the crowd, and to him, fooling with the crocodile wasn't anything to get excited over. But he often forgot that to other people, it was scary.

Reaching out, he pulls her into a hug instead of chiding her. "I'm sorry," he apologizes. "I wasn't thinking." Pulling back, he ducks to see her eyes, wiping away some of her tears with his thumb. "I'm okay, see? It's nothing to be scared of... remember all those stories I told you about me and crocodiles? This is just another one of those." He tries to get her to smile. "C'mon, ay? Don't be mad at me. Next time I won't leave you with a mob, k?"

Punch

Giving a chuckle at Scott's comment Dalton falls quiet for a long moment as he works on the program some more the music in the background providing the best mood. Finally though taking a swig of MD and than standing to streach Dalton pases the floor. He needed to stretch his long legs after being cramped up for so long.

"Mmmmm...Mexican, I havnt had that in a while. I dont see a problem in my end but when I see Dani later tonight I'll run it by her just to make sure she had nothing planed and than I will let you know tomorrow morning if thats not to late?"

Things had been going pretty smooth with Dani and Dalton. He still had some wrinkles to iron out but with Dani's pashents and Scott's tips here and there he was learning.

Looking over at his younger friend Dalton's lips turn up in a small smile that was gone as quick as it had come. It was nice having Scott back and they got along so well. Dalton hadn't had that close friendship in so long it felt nice to have someone else there. To see him getting healthy again, and smile it was nice.

Looking down at Jade Dan thinks for a long moment contemplating his options. It couldn't hurt to have her along and it wasn't that far into town.

"Yeah sure you can, just one thing I ask dont be a passenger seat driver."

Giving Jade a small wink and offering his hand to her to help her up Dan gives a small nod to his truck.

"If you wanna run and tell your dad you are going to head into town with me he is inside the barn. I can wait in the truck for you!"

Dan's drawl didnt always come out but in certin times, like when he was trying to be a gentility it shone bright and strong. One of his best trates.

Standing where Ryder told her to stand Thirteen felt nervous and confused as well. So many people were around it was hard to see anything but infront of her almost like a closed box that she was trapped in. Why was Ryder leaving her and going twords that Croc? Why wasn't he letting her come, and making her stand alone in a place she didn't know with people she didnt know. It was almost suffocating.

Continuing to watch Thirteen cant help the beating of her heart that pound faster and faster echoing in her ears. Watching Ryder her eyes grow big as she holds a gasp, tears roll from her eyes as a gear takes hold of her watching the Croc lunge for Ryder and bearly miss him. Gasps keep coming from her mouth, and little shreeks from her as well but the crowd around her drowns her out.

Finally as Ryder gets the Croc tyed up and starts talking to the keeper Thirteen pushes her way through the people and to the back of the crowd. She had to get air, everything was spinning as the tears still fell from her eyes and this fear still had a hold of her.

Looking up and seeing Ryder coming twords her again a muddy mess she dosnt not smile as her eyes are red, and her cheeks streaked with tears. Everything inside of her was screaming and this place that could of been filled with wonder turned into a place that this one person didnt like.

Continuing to look at Ryder Thirteen can feel the tears from even more in her eyes as she thinks of what the possibility that could of happened. Forming her fist into a ball Thirteen cant help her emotions that she didnt know what to do with and reaching out she gives a punch to Ryder's arm her voice giving a weaver.

"Why did you do that? You left me in a place I didnt know, with people I didnt know, and than you made me so scaired because I could of lost you...."

Thirteen looks up at Ryder, she didnt know how to express how she felt, it was a fear differnt from the other times she had felt. This time it was a fear that someone she cared about could of died, she could be left alone for good with the pain of loss.

"...I want to go home please. I dont like it here."

After I clean up

"Nah, it's safe," Ryder assures, giving Thirteen's shoulder a pat. Yes, there were a lot of people, but it wasn't like a mob - the most dangerous thing here was the loose croc, and all it wanted was to get away from the people, not attack them.

"Come on," he prompts. "What fun is an adventure if you know the outcome?"

Continuing to lead, Ryder finally stops at the edge of the crowd. He can see over heads and shoulders to where the crocodile was somewhere in the brush on a muddy bank of a pond that wasn't normally housing animals.

Ryder sees there is no way to get through the barrier of zoo personnel, reporters and gawkers, but he spies an opening around the other side of a building. He gives a quick look to Thirteen. "Stay here, alright? I'll be right back, I promise." He didn't think he needed to explain what he was going to do, so with that, he slips away.

Sidling around behind the crowd, he comes out between two buildings at a perfect angle to see the crocodile hiding in the swampy edge of the pond. A zoo keeper with a rifle stood nearby, trying to get a good shot if need be. Ryder had heard that they had no tranquilizers at this time, and it would be several hours, so they were doing all they could without it. Unfortunately, everyone was just making the situation worse, and the croc had no intention of going into the cage they had prepared.

Ignoring the other people, Ryder heads towards the crocodile.

"Hey! Get out of here!" A uniformed man approaches, angry at the intrusion.

Ryder doesn't let if faze him. "Steady, mate. You want this big boy out of here, give me your belt."

The man frowns, confused. "Look, I don't know who you think you are, but-"

"You want him out without shooting him and having your zoo on prime time for cruelty?"

The man hesitates. "Who are you?"

"I've done this before," Ryder assures. "Just give me your belt and that rag you got in your pocket."

Maybe it was his accent that convinced the guy, or maybe desperation. But something told him that Ryder wasn't just some common man with no brain from the crowd. He takes off his leather belt and hands it to Ryder with the rag. "What are you gonna do?"

"Tell him to hold still so you can get him in his cage." Ryder explains no more, and slowly moves towards the animal. The crocodile isn't happy, and he hisses at the newcomer, showing his mouthful of razor teeth.

Ryder advances anyway. He swings wide, making eye contact with the reptile. "Yeah, you're a feisty one, aren't ya?" The croc lunges and Ryder spins out of the way, not even hearing the nearby gasps. He concentrates on the eyes and unravels the belt, stepping closer again.

His next move is so quick, it seems to all happen at once. It's Ryder's turn to lunge, his legs barely missing the teeth before he's thrown himself on the crocodile's back. The croc writhes and spins, trying to throw Ryder, as mud flies. But Ryder's hands are skilled, and in an instant, the belt is around the beast's snout, clamping the mighty jaw shut. The croc tries to roll, but Ryder muscles his head steady before covering the wild eyes with the rag.

Breathing heavily, he looks over to the zoo keepers. "Well get over here with the duct tape!" He orders. "This leather isn't gonna last all day!"

The others are fast to help, now that Ryder had a handle on the situation. The crocodile's mouth is taped shut, and with a bit of pressured prompting, the animal is finally encouraged into the waiting cage. The crowd cheers and claps, the reporters wanting to get a close-up of this "mysterious stranger" who had "saved the day."

Ryder wants no part of it though, and backs off, his whole right side caked with mud. "Just get him back with the others as quickly as you can," he tells one of the zoo keepers. "And make sure you get that tape off before he's loose."

With the excitement beginning to die a little, zoo personnel tries to break up the crowd, sending them on their way, along with the media. Ryder sets his hands on his hips and sighs, looking in at he growling crocodile, then back up to the people, finally spotting Thirteen. He was half muddy, but maybe she wanted to walk around the zoo now anyway. She might enjoy seeing some of the more cuddly animals.

Leaving the zoo keepers be, he slips away, trying to go unnoticed until he's swung over a short fence and is coming back to Thirteen. He grins. "It was muddier down there than I thought," he admits wryly. "But now that that's over..." He perks up. "We could take a look around if you want... see some cute tiger cubs? Um... after I clean up, that is."


Jade looks up to Dan and can't help a little smile. "I keep thinking if I sit here long enough, maybe when I stand up again, all my problems will go away."

She sighs. Hearing his offer, she lifts her eyebrows. "You wouldn't... mind me tagging along, would you?"


Scott catches the jerky and grins as he opens it. "I couldn't help it... it was just too good to pass up. I don't think I should try it again though... I really don't want to die yet."

Looking at the computer screen, he chews a piece of jerky thoughtfully, listening to the classical music playing. "Mmm - you're further along than I thought you'd be. One of these days I'll stump ya..." He knows he probably won't be able to. The two had been going at it long enough now that both knew that they both were good enough to keep this up forever. But it was fun anyway.

"Oh, I was supposed to ask you if you and Dani wanted to go out to the Mexican restaurant tomorrow night with Hope and me."

Stump

Not even looking up from the computer Dalton lifts his hand up to catch the air born can of pop, flicking the tab up with just one finger to open it. A small smile spread across his face, as he could tell what happend just from the sound of Susanne's shriek down the hall.

"It's coming, slowly but it's coming. How you come up with these programs to try and stump me is far beyond anything I can understand but I'll figure this one out sooner or later like I have with the others. Just might take me a little bit."

Stairing at the screen Dalton takes a long sip of the cold drink typing a few commands into the computer, than writing a few more down on a pad of paper before deleting some things on the computer and writing some more.

Over the last few days they hadnt been to busy and to pass the time they had both been working on trying to stumb the other. They took turns and though the time between became longer and longer nether had been stumped yet.

"You know, this has some good to it besides pass the time. These programs are good, and one day we might be able to put them to use who knows."

Dalton gives a little shrug as he reaches into the draw of his desk still not taking his eyes off the computer screen. Pulling to individually wrapped packs of beef jerky out her puts one on his own desk and throws the other to Scott.

"Got Susanne good again eh?"

Giving another smile Sapphire turns and leans against the counter crossing her arms over her chest and looking at Gage. He'd been doing so good the last few weeks and really pulled himself out of the slump of depression. She had been so proud of him, and happy that he really was trying to put his life back together. There still was much to work on, but it was coming and there was no reason to rush any of it.

"Everyone deserves to have a friend. No matter what they have done, or what they will do friendship is important and everyone should have one."

Turning again and taking the box from the counter Sapphire breaks it down to take out to the trash. Giving a smile to Gage she was happy to help, even if once she was gone he changed everything around again it was nice to help just the same.

"Your welcome, alright we have a full day a head of us, the supermarket, maybe we will stop by Kmart or Walmart and pick up a few things you might need there and we are off again. This is your day Gage so where ever you want to go, and whatever you want to buy you just let me know."

Entering the Zoo Thirteen felt a little nervouse, this place was so big, and there were so many animles that looked back her. Being up close was cool, and see somethings she never would of before was really differnt but still they looked sad in there own way. Though she tryed to remember what Ryder had said there was still a part of her that hurt for the animals.

Continuing to follow Ryder Thirteen says nothing on it knowing that maybe, just maybe it was only her that felt this way because of what she had been though and she didnt truly understand this world with the zoo.

"What are we gonna do? There is alot of people over there I dont think its very safe."

Finishing up his chores Dan takes his gloves off and puts them on top of the shelf that he kept most of his working items. Bushing his hat back just a little he lets out a long sigh before stepping outside the bar.

Seeing the familure figure on the bail of hay Dan cocks his head just a little. Something looked wrong with Jade again and though he didnt want to pry he hated seeing anyone upset.

"Hey there. I am starting to think you live on the bail of hey."

Giving a chuckle of his own stupid humor Dan looks up and across the yard. Maybe Jade would like to get away again, he was going into town and maybe she would like to ride along but than again that alone made him nervous just a little. His last expeance in a car with a woman was not a good one.

"I am heading into town did you need anything you want me to pick up?"

Scary Eye

"Yeah... okay..." Mick watches Dan go his own way, then gives a little sigh. The man seemed innocent enough... maybe Mick was barking up the wrong tree. Trying to shrug it off, he goes about continuing the chores.


Jade wanders down the driveway, having been walking for the last twenty minutes. It was a little chilly today, and she was glad she'd chosen to put on a jacket. Her mood though, matched the gray sky. Last night, she'd been able to forget and and get away from her worries for a while. Then after her mother's call this morning, it all got flushed down the toilet. But now it was even worse. She and her brother didn't get along all that great, but knowing he was missing... it was scary nonetheless, and she did worry about him. Worse yet, she couldn't even talk to anyone about it, lest her father find out, which was exactly what her mother didn't want.

Her head hurt. She was going in circles and just needed a break. Finding the familiar straw bale outside the barn, she flops down, having dubbed it her thinking spot several days ago. She could hear some of the others moving around inside the barn, but she opted not to approach anyone yet. She just needed to think.


Ryder was only half-listening to Thirteen, but as she joins him, her solemn expression surprises him a little. He question catches him off guard and he has to think for a moment. Eventually he shrugs. "Animals are a lot different than people, Thirteen. I'm not saying I agree with every time an animal is caged up, but most zoos and stuff keep pretty good care of the animals."

He takes another bite of his cereal, only part of his concentration still on the television. "Now I don't put up with abuse, but... you could say it's mean of Laura to have a cat too... or Jamie - she's got a big snake. I don't think it's mean as long as the animal is kept happy and healthy."

He looks a little gentler at Thirteen. "You weren't just caged up." He taps her chin with a bent finger. "They stole life from you. And that's unacceptable."

"The crocodile has apparently made it to the outskirts of the zoo. Zoo keepers are directing people away from this area of the zoo as they continue to try and bring the animal back to..."

Ryder rolls his eyes as he looks back to the tv. "Then you have these idiots who just confuse the animals more by not knowing what they're doing. You'd think if they keep crocs, they'd have brains enough to handle them."

Sighing, he shakes his head before going to put his bowl down in the sink. "I can't watch that anymore." It would only take ten minutes to get to the zoo if he took the back road. He grabs his keys and aims for the door. "Somebody's gonna get hurt, and I don't want them shooting that poor animal."

Stopping at the door though, he turns to look at Thirteen again. His smile was softer than his tone had been. She had come a long way, but there was still a long way yet to go. Getting her out among people and new places without incident made it a good day. "Come on... Let's go have a new adventure, ay?"

Waiting for her only takes a few minutes, and soon, they're heading down the back streets, Ryder behind the wheel of the used car he'd picked up a couple weeks prior. He gives Thirteen a sidelong glance, grinning. "And I thought it was going to be a boring day."

In fifteen minutes, they were parking in the zoo lot. Though open, it was a quiet day this time of the year, and there were few people to be seen - most were at the other end, gawking at what was happening with the crocodile, or being pushed back by zoo personnel. Ryder goes ahead and pays entrance for him and Thirteen, then wanders in the direction of the commotion. There were trees throughout the zoo and long buildings with signs that indicated what was inside. Arrows pointed to elephants, tigers and seals. They had to pass by the tall fences where beyond, giraffes looked at them curiously as they chewed their leaves and grass.

Ryder leads the way, not thinking a whole lot about the animals - he'd been to zoos before. Not this one, but it wasn't anything that was exciting enough to break his concentration as he headed for where the crocodile was.


Gage joins Sapphire in the tiny kitchen, not really sure why he was so awkward. He'd done so much... but it was the everyday tasks he just wasn't familiar with.

"Um... I should be okay for breakfast." He looks at her a little sheepishly. During the last couple weeks, he'd pulled out of his depression, but he was still very quiet, almost timid. Here was as man who had tortured... killed... did so many bad things to people and assisted in the unthinkable. Yet now, he felt as if he were a child. This was a whole new way of life. Though he had the common sense to make it through, and though he had enough logic to survive in society, it was still new... still strange.

Sapphire's offer to help him shop makes him lift his eyebrows. Even while living at TJY, everything had been provided. He'd ridden along with other guys as they'd run errands and bought supplies. But he'd never shopped for himself before. He was used to being in public, but not for that reason... not living.

"Yeah... yeah that would be nice. Um... thanks." A wry grin surfaced. Smiles were still rare, but slowly, they were becoming more frequent. Sapphire was helping him find the things in life that made it worth it.

He looks around the apartment again. It felt a little bit like where he used to live, but it had never been on his own. He had thought he was experiencing so much back with the Agency, but it wasn't even scratching the surface.

He can't help the words again. "Thank you... not just for shopping but... well, for everything. I know I don't deserve friends so... I like it that you've stuck with me."


Susanne goes about her paperwork, busily trying to prepare files for Reese. She had been deep in concentration for a while now, enveloped in her work.

Swiveling in her chair, she reads another line of the pages she was holding before rising slowly, and finally looking to the doorway where she was headed.

Half a face and one gray, lifeless eye stared back at her, the figure hidden around the corner.

Susanne shrieks and her papers go flying in every direction, scattering across the floor. Stumbling backward into her desk, her heart just about pounds from her chest. The freaky eye had disappeared, but now she could hear Scott's muffled laughter.

"Scott Johnson!" Susanne stalks from her office and around the corner to find Scott red in the face from laughing. "You... you... you.....!" She whacks him on the arm several times before being able to calm herself down.

"I'm sorry, I'm sorry." Scott gasps for breath. "I couldn't help it..." Pausing to breathe, he looks at her, trying not to laugh any more. "I wish I could have seen the look on your face though."

Realizing that he couldn't even see her when she jumps, Susanne starts to chuckle. "And it's just as well, you turkey. Now I have to clean up this mess."

"I'll help."

"Don't bother. But you do that again, I'm gonna sock your other eye and you won't be able to see at all for a week."

Still grinning, Scott makes it back to his own office with the can of Mountain Dew he'd originally been after before deciding to tease Susanne with his "scary eye" as she called it. Flopping down in his chair, he looks over to Dalton, tossing him a second can of pop. "How's the system coming?"

Why?

Catching Mick as he goes over Bolt's leg Dan pays close attachen. He could always learn something from him, and liked being up to the challenge of remembering what to do the next time something happened.

"Ok, I'll keep an eye on it, and if it looks like its getting worse, or not any better I'll let you know."

Leaning on the gate Dan waits till Mick is ready before opening the gate for him to let bolt out, and than closing it once again.

Giving Mick a sidelong glance at the mention of his daughter again Dan cant help but wonder if there was a hidden meaning some where or not. He couldnt shake the feeling that there was something behind Mick's questions.

"Yeah we get along pretty good. Though with Jade it seems like it would be hard for her NOT to get along with anyone. Anyways, I better get back to finishing everything up. I need to run into town in a little bit and want to get this all done first. I'll see ya later Mick."

Looking up from her bowl as she sat in the table Thirteen just looks at him for a long moment almost thinking he was crazy. Giving a shake of her head and a small laugh she stands to put her bowl in the sink.

"Honestly I think its pretty stupid they would of tryed to cage him up to start with. "

Running her water through the bowl Thirteen keeps her back to Ryder as she continues to talk.

"Why do they do that? Cage those animals up? I didnt like it, I am sure they don't eather."

Finally turning to look at Ryder Thirteen walks over to him. She seemed a little sad at the though of keeping the animles caged up not truly understanding why they did it.

"I think its pretty mean, you dont?"

Smiling and looking around Sapphire puts down the bedding, and boxs that held dishes and a few odds and ends for Gage. This would be where he would stay now, he could call this home. It wasnt a crappy little apartment and would suit one person well.

"Well, I can still bring breakfast for you if you like but thats up to you. I enjoyed being able to do it for you."

Taking a few of the boxs to the small kitchen Sapphire puts a few things away for Gage. She new this was going to be differnt for him, but she would do all she could to help him get use to it, and know what to do.

"I was thinking if you wanted I would take you shopping so you could get some stuff around here for yourself. I really dont have anything else to do today and I dont mind at all."

Loose Croc

Mick opens his mouth to tell Dan not to keep apologizing, but his intention is replaced with a wry grin instead, and he lets it slide. Nothing seemed to be out of the ordinary from the night before, but... there was still something bothering him about Jade's behavior. Apparently she and Dan had teamed up last night. Not surprising, but... was there a connection? He wondered.

Still working, he quirks an eyebrow at Dan's mention of Bolt. "Mm... he's usually smart enough to stay out of trouble. Come on while the others finish up chores - let's go take a look at him."

Leading the way, Mick heads to Bolt's stall. The gelding met him at the door, confused as to why he'd been taken out, then back in again.

Mick slips into the stall, patting the horse on the neck. "Hey fella.. what's the matter, hmm?" Checking him over, Mick finds the swollen foreleg. Running his hand down Bolt's leg, he feels for any injuries, careful when Bolt shifts uneasily. "Steady... Dan, hold his head, will you?"

He prods around the knee, feeling the heat and swelling. But there were no cuts or scrapes to show what had happened. "Well, looks like he might've turned it or pulled it somehow. I'd let it go today and see if the swelling goes down on its own. If not, we'll wrap it tonight."

Mick straightens and gives Bolt another pat, pausing before taking the horse out. He cocks his head at Dan. "So... you and Jade seem to have hit it off..." He fishes for more information, trying to get to the bottom of Jade's odd mood.


Ryder leans back against the wall, eating a bowl of cold cereal for lunch as the tv drones on the other side of the room. He hadn't gone in to work today. There had been nothing for him to do.

Crunching on the cereal, he stops, squinting at the tv as the reporter catches his attention. The screen showed the local zoo and several zoo keepers who were trying to herd an escaped crocodile back into its pen. Somehow it had gotten out and now they were quite clumsily trying to handle the situation.

"Aw, you stupid..." Ryder shakes his spoon at the tv, tossing droplets of milk in every direction. "Dang yanks are gonna get their hand bit off... no... no, don't use that...aw..." He groans in disgust as the crocodile slips down another path. "See, ya went and scared him. That croc's got more sense than you zoo keepers do."

Taking another bite, he stops again as one of he handlers almost gets his leg bitten. "Can you believe this?" He didn't even know if Thirteen was listening.


Gunner finishes cleaning up, then resumes his seat on the bed, now alone. He appreciated Hope... it wasn't easy for him to show, or admit, but he did know she was just trying to help, and that she meant it. It was odd... now when he was in such a place like this, he realized just how few real friends he had. Oh, he had friends, sure, but no one close... no one to confide in, or lean on. He'd always just relied on himself. But now, when it was a battle against himself, he had no one to turn to. So who was there? Hope... and Bree.

Sitting slouched, he won't move until the nurse finally comes to give him his next dose of medication. But even after that, he sits quietly, alone, opting not to go to the rec room, or read books. He needed time to just be.


Gage sets down his bag, standing in the middle of the empty room. There was one small room here... a small kitchenette off to the side, and then a small bathroom with a shower. It was the corner apartment on the second floor... it did have a window that overlooked a nice wooded patch, so that was nice. It was very... empty. And very... intimidating, despite its small size.

Gage wanders a few more feet in, trying to get used to the fact that this is where he would live now. For the last few weeks, the downstairs at TJY had been converted slightly, to house him and Alec until better arrangements could be made. Reese had been working hard, but the system was simply slow. So the Elite had been very good at providing what they could. Alec was still there, still threatening to get out of dodge, so Reese wasn't willing to let him go until there was some place where he could either work off his energy or do time behind bars. For Gage, he needed to spend his days alongside a police officer, doing community service until he had enough hours built up. Then he would truly be on his own. For now... he got to live in this apartment, with a little bit of money to just get by with food and clothing. Any extra was left up to him to decide what to do with... right now, the first thing he could think of was getting a bed.

The apartment was more like a private halfway house than anything... but apparently the Elite was taking it easy on him because he really wanted to have a better life and be on the right side.

Sighing, Gage tries to swallow the strange feelings. He had done so much with the Agency... yet he had never really lived at all, and he knew so little. Could he really survive? What would he eat? Where would he shop? Would he have any free time? Even if he did, what would he do? It was a strange mixture of imprisonment and freedom.

Turning around, he gives a look to Sapphire like that of a lost puppy. "Well... I guess... you won't have to bring me breakfast anymore."

Bolt

Looking up as Mick enters the barn Dan gives a smile and a nod to him before getting back to work. He liked when Mick worked with him, they didnt talk much and Dan might be a little nervous around Mick but it was only because he look up to his older boss and wanted to do good by him.

"Other than getting a flat tire, no not really. Well we had an ice cube fight half way through the night started by Jason, and...Jade and I beat the other pretty bad the last game. I dont know if you consider that exciting or not, but it was really fun."

Using the pitchfork to continue to much out one of the stalls Dan keeps to his work. He had alot to do this morning and thought he wouldnt let on to it, or let it slow him down he was a little on the tired side. Continuing to work Dan smiles and gives a little shake of his head as well.

"I got introduced to the pizza box last night too. I never saw people cause such a comotion at the dinner table before as that group, but I caught on fast and it was fun too."

Stopping and look at Mick again he couldnt help the small feeling of guilt that washed over him again. He new crap happend, and he wasnt his fault but he had felt bad breaking his promise anyways.

"Sorry again Jade wasnt home on time. I know you said crap happend and all but well..I am sorry anyways."

Continuing to work Dan says nothing more about it. He was done now with saying he was sorry and it was time to move on.

"I noticed Bolt was limping when I took him out this morning. I put him back in his pen untill I talked to you. I didnt want him to injure himself anymore. He leg looked swollen, I think he got into something but I am not sure what."

Bending down Hope helps Gunner with the mess, She new she didn't have to, but she wanted too. Thought she really didnt say much more Hope new that today had been good no matter how Gunner felt about it, she felt good and new he had started the process.

"Well, I am going to go see the Dr and talk with him for a little bit. I'll be back before I go."

Standing Hope gives Gunner a smile before placing some of the papers on the night stand. Turning to exit the room Hope stops to look back in, and than disappears down the hall.

Fun?

Jade shuts her cell phone, staring into space as she sits on her bed. Her mother's voice rang in her ears... she had kept the call quiet after answering it, but now she was torn in two directions.

"Don't tell your father... I don't want him upset or worrying... Ben doesn't want him to interfere..."

Jade bites her lip. How could she not tell her Dad? Wasn't it his right? And right now, she could use a little comfort herself. But she wanted to respect her mom... it could be bad if her dad went in guns blazing... sure, he had past experience but... her mom didn't seem to think it was a good idea. And maybe it wasn't as bad as they thought anyway... Dylan could just be pulling a stupid stunt again. They weren't sure that he'd been kidnapped or anything.

Jade finally slides off the bed and stuffs her phone in her pocket. Mick had called her five minutes ago for breakfast, and she didn't want him thinking anything was wrong.

Hurrying into the hall, she walks down to the kitchen where the little family sat. Once or twice a week they ate by themselves, away from the dining hall, to just have quality time, especially with BJ. Mick had told Jade she was more than welcome to eat at either place, but she'd taken him up on eating with them. She'd see the others later.

Mick glances up as Jade joins them and smiles. "Morning."

She pastes on a smile. "Good morning." Her grin widens at BJ. "Hey you. Did you leave any breakfast for me?"

Mick chuckles and passes her the plate of waffles. "I dare say if you'd been here three minutes later, this kid woulda polished the table clean." He winks at BJ and ruffle his hair. "But that's good. With all the energy you burn during the day, it's good to have a healthy breakfast."

Jade quietly takes one of the waffles, her appetite long gone. But she couldn't lead on that anything was wrong.

After a minute or two of silence though, Mick was too quick to pick up on Jade's quiet mood. It was strange. He gives a questioning glance to Rosetta before addressing his daughter again. "Have fun last night?"

"Mm-hmm..." Jade nods as she takes a bite of food.

Mick quirks an eyebrow. "Well don't sound too excited."

Jade tries to laugh. "No, it was fun. We all had a good time."

"Everything alright?"

"Yeah, yeah." Jade tries to smile again, though it was hard - she knew her dad was smarter than that.

Mick doesn't probe any further, but something seemed odd. Something wasn't right. Did it have to do with last night? He wondered.

Half an hour later, Mick was in the barn, continuing chores from where he'd left off before breakfast. Joining Dan for the rest of the feeding, it's not unusual that they work side-by-side with some of the others to get the job done.

Mick cuts open a bale of hay, putting the knife back in his pocket. "So, Jade said you guys had fun last night... anything exciting?"


Gunner resists, but finally lifts his eyes to look at Hope. She was so tender... so sincere. "I... I don't know what kind of a life I deserve," he returns quietly.

Taking his sleeve to swipe at his eyes, he moves up onto the bed to sit, slouching, but calm. For now, the waterworks were turned off and he was settling down again.

He sniffs and stares at the floor before daring to look at Hope again. After blowing up, letting go, and being comforted, now he just wanted a few minutes alone. He knew that later he would see Bree again, but for now... the door had closed a little again, waiting for another time to be opened. "I'm... I'm okay now." Though he knew he didn't have to be ashamed or embarrassed, he was. He wasn't used to showing these raw emotions like this, and his face is warm to prove it.

He looks to the mess he'd made of the table, books and papers. Slowly, he sinks back to the floor to start picking it up. He knew Hope wanted to see the doctor too.

Life you Deserve

Alice's eyes widen a little bit more still unbelieving that all this was happining. She new it was but it was unreal and one of those once in a lifetime things.

"You have your own movie theater too? Is there anything you don't have? Tennis court? Flower garden?"

Giving a grin Alice nods and looks back to Kyle.

"I guess that is a yes than. Just grab our stuff and we are ready. A new adventure awaits and I do believe this is going to be quite the ride."

Giving a chuckle and another shake of her head Alice looks to Erik a big grin.

"Nah, we should be ok. We dont have much just a few bath and shower things and some clothing. Oh and my old laptop, thats about it."

"Yes Sir, thank you for giving me the time off to go out. Have a good night."

Turning and heading off to porch again Dan lets out a long sigh making his way across the grass. It was quiet this late at night, the bussle of people dieing down as everyone layed quiet in there beds fast asleep. Dan didnt mind the quiet though, quiet was good sometimes.

Finally making it to his bunkhouse Dan makes his way up the steps but getting to the top he turns and sits down just stairing out across the darkend ranch. Only one light was on maybe a bathroom, or someone checking on there baby. But it flickers and than goes out.

Leaning aganst the railing Dan new chores would come early in the morning but he didnt mind. He needed to unwind from the fun filled night. He hoped maybe sometime again soon he would be able to do it again but next time he would be more carfel. He had almost lost his head more than once tonight.

Giving a soft smile Hope stands and looks at Gunner for a moment.

"She might have alot going for her, but I think your something special to her and she would be pretty heart broken to lose that."

Walking over to the far courner where a metal chair sat Hope grabs it before bing it over to where the bed was before sitting down. Leaning forword just a little Hope puts a finger under Gunner's chin and tilts it upwards so she can look at him, a silent signal that there was nothing to be ashamed about.

"Now, your going to continue to get better and I will help, your going to get out of her, and your going to go on with live and live the one you deserve."

A lot more going on

"Oh." Erik looks at Alice grimly. "Sorry... you can't go get any of your stuff."

"You turkey!" Twila gives him a shove, sending him off his chair and onto the floor. She smirks with triumph, looking back to Alice with a giggle. "I stay here all the time. I'll even stay here tonight so you're not the only girl here to start off."

Kyle can't help it that his eyes are wide and he just shakes his head. "I can't get over this... you realize this all sounds so unreal."

Erik picks himself up off the floor to sit back in his chair again. "Meet reality."

"Why though? You could have... anything. Yet you sought me out, you're offering your home... I don't get it."

"I was brought up to give, Kyle," Erik explains. "It's just the way my family is. My parents happen to be extremely blessed financially, and me too as a result. The group of us here..." He gestures at the rest of the band. "We're all kinda like family too. As strange as it may seem, everyone here is welcome to come and go from here all the time. I'm not going to let that offer stop with you, just because I haven't known you for as long."

Kyle laughs, still amazed. "Wow... okay..." It did seem strange, and had it been anywhere else, he would have been weirded out. But there was something about this group... this home... these people... it was full of peace. There was a Godly peace here and Kyle felt it. There was no fear.

He looks back to Alice. "Well, if you want, I guess that means we go get out stuff."

Theo quirks an eyebrow. "I feel a movie night coming on."

"Nothing like a movie night before the real work begins," Russ agrees.

"And you've never experienced a movie night like one here," Theo adds. He grins. "Can you say 'home theater?'"

Erik laughs and shakes his head. "Alright alright, we can have a movie night. Then we gotta start practicing tomorrow if we're gonna be ready to show our stuff." He looks to Kyle and Alice again. "You need any help bringing stuff over?"


Mick takes a deep breath, letting it out slowly. His eyes did not stray from Dan's. The young man was a hard worker - of that, Mick couldn't deny. He did a good job, he was faithful, and he could be trusted around the ranch. But there had been something from the beginning that Mick sensed and he didn't like - though he hadn't figured out what it was yet. Tonight, that feeling was still there. He searches Dan's eyes deeply, though still finds no answers.

Finally, he gives a little shrug, his lips pursed. He didn't want to be mean - he knew Dan was telling the truth, and it was obvious from the time that had they not had a flat tire, they would have been back on time. And Mick trusted the group as a whole. It wasn't really what he had a problem with. But what he did have a problem with, he couldn't put his finger on.

"I know you're not lying, Dan. Crap happens. Jade's home safe, so I'm not worried about it." He grins a little. "And stop shaking in your boots - you're making an idiot of yourself."

Turning around, Mick aims for the door, stopping for another moment to look at Dan again. "You only got a few hours left until chores - I suggest spending them wisely... in bed."


It seems forever, but eventually, Gunner begins to calm down. He felt sick to his stomach and his head throbbed. He felt like such an idiot, yet at the same time, he didn't care. He was sitting on the floor of a mental hospital... if he were normal, then there would be something wrong.

He might not have responded to Hope's words, but he heard them... he heard them and he did think about them.

"Bree's... got a lot more going on than... than just seeing me." He swallows hard, his voice dry and raspy.

Quiet for several minutes, he finally moves back a little relieving Hope and resting back against the bed. His eyes burned like never before, and it hurt just to keep them open. He doesn't look up... he doesn't feel he can. Not and face Hope.

"What's gonna happen to me now?" he asks quietly. How long would he have to stay here? What would it take to get out? If he promised he wouldn't walk off a bridge, was that his ticket out?

Sir

Coming up to the pourch Dan lets out a long sigh seeing the look on Mick's face. It chilled him to the bone and put fear in his heart. There wasnt much Dan feared, after everything he had been through but he was just starting to feel comfortable here, and tonight had helped him feel at home and like he fit but now, in this one moment it could all be snuffed out.

"Yes Sir I did."

Picking at the peace of wood on the railing Dan could feel his insides shakes till finally he looked up at Mick. This had happened, and now it was time to face Mick. He had to, and if he didn't understand than there was nothing else Dan could do but move on once again.

"Please don't be upset with Jade. We really did get a flat. I didn't think about having her call you but Katie did and there was no service. Thats the honest truth, I try not to make a habit of lieing."

Dan looks Mick in the eye as he prays that his boss would believe him. He liked it here, it felt good here and he liked working with the horses. He didnt want to have to pack up and leave already.

Looking up as Kip comes back Alice takes notice to the change in him. Figuring it had something to with the phone call she could tell it wasn't good. Glancing at Kyle she gives a nod he had noticed too. Trying not to bring any more attachen to it Alice moves on with the conversation it was not her place to say anything.

Hearing that Kyle and herself could stay at Erik's Alice looks up quickly a look of shock on her face before looking to Kyle and than back to Erik. She could only imagen what the rooms must look like and what the beds felt like. Looking back to Kyle her eyes were still wide a little.

"Well...I...dont know what to think at this point."

Alice gives a little laugh before looking around the room and back to Kyle again.

"I dont see why it wouldnt be ok, but we dont have any of our cloths, or bath stuff here. We would have to go back to the hotel and get it first."

Continuing to hold Gunner Hope new it hurt, Hope new everything inside of him was being wripped a sunder, and she wished with the snap of her fingers she could make it go away. But it didnt work that way.

"Gunner, your not a monster because of this. You didnt take the wheel from your Dad's hand and drive the car off the road. It was an accident."

Continuing to rub Gunner's back and hold his hand Hope is quiet for a minute letting Gunner lean into her. She didnt mind, and it didnt bother her one bit.

"You need to forgive yourself and let go. Let God take your pain Gunner, let him comfort you and wrap his ever lasting arms around you. He holds nothing aganst you, and condemns you for nothing. You want so bad for people not to judge you, or look down on you well you need to not do that to youself as well."

Hope sucks in a deep breath of air as she takes a tissue from her pocket and whips Gunner's eyes and nose not because she was babying him but because she was trying to help him not feel more of a mess than he already did.

"Its going to hurt Gunner, its going to hurt for a while, if it didnt than I would know something was wrong. But you have to know that it was not your fault, you are not a murder, and you need to live on for those around you. I think Bree would be mighty lonly without you around dont you?"