Fine

Gunner bites the corner of his mouth. "I've been digging for years..." He shakes his head. "All it did was prove the doctors' diagnosis. Even though I remembered the accident finally... even that's just this... blurry kind of picture."

Turning around and walking the edge again, he stops, quirking a smile. Giving in, he steps down and sits on the short wall instead, his legs dangling to the inside of the roof. "What? Did I find something you're scared of?" he teases.

Leaning back on his hands, he catches her eye again. "I think I heard just a smidge of worry in your voice."


Mick doesn't move. He's too stunned by Rosetta's words to even react. Second place? All he can do is stand in the kitchen doorway, his mouth hanging partway open.

The kiss doesn't do much other than to make him look at her to receive the second blow. His eyes change from an irritated spark to an angry blaze as he watches her, ire-filled words bubbling below the surface. Hearing her sobs as she walks away only seems to fan the fire. He wanted to kick something, throw something or hit something. Worse yet, he wanted a drink so badly that his hands were shaking.

Swallowing everything that wanted to spill out, Mick keeps his mouth shut.

Fine.

He doesn't follow Rosetta to the bedroom. Instead, he goes back into the living room where he shuts out the light and grabs a blanket before lying down on the couch. Rolling onto his side, he tries to get comfortable on the uneven cushion, but it's nearly impossible. It was going to be a long night. Despite his exhaustion, his body hurt so bad and his mind was so full and he was so uncomfortable on the couch that sleep was not going to come easily.

Sob

Looking back at Mick Rosetta's eyes filled with tears. She was now mad, she was upset and hurt. All her fears she had pushed away where now unfolding and it hurt so bad all she wanted to do was throw up.

"And I guess I cant expect you to feel how I do, because you have been the only one I ever had so there is no second place for you to take."

Throwing the towel she had been holding Rosetta makes her way to where Mick was standing. Leaning in to give him a kiss on the cheek she moves past him but stops before she even new it the words on her mind were spoken.

"If you leave tomorrow before you come back you better consider if you really wanted to be part of this family or if all we are is the consolation prize."

Heading down the hallway small sobs follow Rosetta as she heads to the bathroom before bed.

"But if you dig up enough it could trigger memories that will help you."

Standing from the ledge Bree lets out a small tired sigh as she looks through the telescope and than back at Gunner and shakes her head.

"Would you get down from there before you break your neck please? Than I will be out of a job, in jail and a man friend. All three horrable combanations."

Dangerous walkway

Mick gives a little groan and flops back in the couch, running a hand over his face. He didn't like what he was hearing - it just made his inner battler worse.

Growling, he stands up and paces a little. "Dylan's in front of my own two eyes too," he mutters under his breath. Stopping at the small fireplace, he looks at all the pictures that they have collected and set on the mantel. There are many of him, Rosetta and BJ. And there are also a few of Jade, and a couple of Dylan. All of a sudden, he felt torn between those two worlds, and wasn't even sure why. Why couldn't he go? What was wrong with wanting to help find his own son?

Wandering to the kitchen, he remains in the doorway, silent, waiting to lock eyes with Rosetta. "I'm sorry you don't understand." His voice is steady. "And I'm sorry that I'm more worried about my son than you are - I guess I can't expect you to feel the same way I do. I'll call the police in the morning, and if they still haven't found anything, I'll arrange for the guys here to look after you and BJ and I'll be taking the first flight to Nevada."


Gunner isn't really sure how to respond to Bree's remark. It was different... here he was, not happy that he couldn't remember, and she wanted to forget.

He opens his mouth to respond, but stops as he suddenly feels Bree's palm on his face. His eyes snap to hers. He should have laughed at her comment about him being her only vamp, but for some odd reason, even though he felt the humor, it just didn't want to come out. Instead, his skin grew warm, starting from where Bree's fingers paused on his cheek.

"Traveling a road with a vampire can be dangerous," he almost whispers.

Slowly, he reaches up to take her hand in his, and he just holds it for a moment, perhaps not even realizing that his thumb was caressing her palm.

Then breaking the moment, he lets her hand go and turns, hopping up onto the ledge of the roof. It was a good two feet wide, but walking it would not be recommended by anyone. Gunner paces it slowly, seeming to not care how far down it was with no railing.

"I can't travel that road anyway," he muses thoughtfully as he slowly walks, holding his arms out to the sides for balance. "I can't revisit what I can't remember... all I can do is dig up facts from unknown sources to maybe catch a glimpse of what my life was like before."

Defend

Feeling her own defense rise at the tone from Mick becomes harsher than she wanted to even get to. But hearing BJ's name thrown into the mix made her defence go off even more.

"So what now we compare the kids? The issue here is not thats its Dylan, the issue is that you should be taking care of the family in front of you own two eyes before you go running off to be the hero, and be the hero to the little boy in the other room that loves you more than anything in the world because your the father he has even known."

Rosetta stands and heads out of the living room into the kitchen. She felt shaky and her stomach was still doing flip flops. She hated fighting, she hated the arguing and the way it made her feel.

"How do you think it makes me feel to see you go running off when you cant do anything more than they already are doing? The Elite will do what they can, and if you go you will sit with them and wait when you can do that here."

Giving a small smile as Gunner sat down next to her Bree gave a chuckle. It wasnt often she talked about her past but when she did sometimes it was nice to make a joke out of it. It hurt less.

"I always wanted to forget my childhood. Maybe we can switch places sometime?!"

Bree nudges Gunner playful like. Stoping and just leaning into him a little listing to what he said.

" You dont have to go through remember alone anymore eather if you dont want. I can travil down the road with you. The past is nothing to be scared of, it brought you to who you are today and that is whats important.."

Bringing her hand to the side of Gunner's face Bree rubs off a little bit of dirt that founds its way there more than likely from the telescope. Her eyes still twinkling in the moon light she chuckled.

"Right now, at this moment your a great guy. Thats what matters who you are today. Your my favor vamp."

Thinking for a moment Bree quirt quirking an eyebrow.

"Actully, your my only vamp."

Scared

Mick can feel his defenses starts to rise, and he's not even sure exactly why. He didn't like arguing with Rosetta, but he wasn't even sure why it even felt like an argument to begin with. He hadn't thought there was much difference between one family and the other... they were both his. He had three children, in his mind, not two, and one.

"If it was BJ that was missing... would you tell me not to go?" He didn't mean for his tone to be quite as harsh as it was, even though his volume was low.


Gunner cocks his head at Bree, wondering about her past once again. It was obvious that her family life must not have been the greatest. He tucks his hands in his pockets and turns to sit next to her on the ledge of the roof, unafraid of the height.

"At least you remember growing up." He shrugs, not even knowing how to feel about his own past. He never had figured out how to feel about it. "I guess I've always been a little scared to try and find out what kind of a kid I was... always afraid I'd find out I wasn't the greatest sort of guy or something."

Luck Out

Looking back at Mick Rosetta could keep her hand shake slightly and her skin had gone cold and clamy as her stomach gave a horrible larch. She couldnt help the feelings she was having about this and everything seemed so messed up, it made her sick inside.

"Its dosnt matter if we are safe or not, its the point of the matter thats its not fair to us to sit here while you run off when there are other people who are doing what they can to find Dylan. The Sheriffs station might not know what they are doing but the Elite do."

Continuing to keep studying Mick Rosetta didnt know weather to feel bad for how she felt, or not. She didnt think she was being selfish and she felt like she was in the right here but she didnt know how to make Mick understand with out him getting upset.

"When you married me, and when you adopted BJ that was your promise to us to always put us first in your life. What if something happens while your gone? What if BJ needs you? What if I need you? What if something happens to you? You say nothing will but you dont know that for sure Mike. We need you here."

Coming next to Gunner Bree just stands and looks to the city below with Gunner. It was nice these last two days to be here with him and enjoy this time.

"Nah, its when the city wakes the fun is over."

Taken off guard for a moment on Gunner talking about his mom Bree recovers quickly and gives a small grin. It was nice and a good starting sigh to hear Gunner talk about his mom.

"I bet you did. You have that glint in your eye that says you like staying up at night. My on the other hand..."

Bree gives a small dry laugh as she sits on the edge of the building.

"My mom and father was hardly ever home to tell me to go to bed. I guess I lucked out."

Going to bed

Mick lifts his eyebrows slightly, as if almost surprised at Rosetta's strong feelings. Though she was calm, he knew well enough to know that she was serious.

"But..." He tries to find the right words, not really sure how to feel now. "I can't... just sit here, when I'm more than capable of helping. I may not be an official agent, but it wouldn't feel right not to use the abilities I have. If there's one thing I can do, or any extra information I have, or anything... if that helps get Dylan back then... I would think it would be worth it."

He looks at Rosetta's eyes, trying to read her, and trying to figure out what he was supposed to be doing. "I love you and BJ, you know that. But you're both safe here... and nothing's gonna happen to me. TJY would help, yeah, but... how can I not be involved?"


Gunner chuckles. "Mmm... maybe it's the other hand that's being protected."

He turns his head, craning his neck to look over at Bree, a little grin on his face. It seems he's going to say something more but changes his mind, and instead he rocks up and back to his feet, going for some of the fruit that Bree had brought.

Another hour passes with little chatting and lots of stargazing. Constellations are found, a couple planets spotted, and an in-depth discussion evolves around the subject of light years.

Too soon, Gunner knows Bree will have to get back to work. He stands at the telescope, not looking through it, but resting one hand on it, while looking out at the city instead. "I guess when the city goes to sleep, that's my cue to go back to my cell." He sighs, running a finger along the cool metal of the telescope. He didn't want to leave yet. He was enjoying himself too much. A dry laugh escapes. "I wonder if I ever gave my mom a hard time about going to bed."

Lose

Sitting up again as Rosetta hears what Mick was saying her stomach cherns. Moving so she is facing Mick she searchs his eyes for a long moment.

"What about us? Me, and BJ, if The Agency wants you, or something happens what about us than? Your not an Agent anymore, and you have a family right here you need to care for. I am not saying Dylan is less important because I know he is. But let TJY do there job thats why they are there right?."

Her tone wasnt angry or irratated, it was quiet normal carrying on this conversation with Mick. But something churned evern more inside Rosetta, it was like a fear, a doubt something she wanted to stress to Mick but couldn't find the words he would understand.

Giving her own laugh as she watchs the shooting star go by and here Gunner's comment Bree has to stop for a moment. Hearing her own laughter was differnt and almost seemed off to her. It was on a very rare occasion she laughed a little if at all but around Gunner it just seemed to be easyer to do.

"I saw it, and I dont think it did hurt to much.."

Giving a smile and continuing to look up at the stars Bree's eyes twinkled in there light.

"...see I've got another hand protecting mind so it reflected the hot sting leaving a warmth in its place."

Offering a smile and a nod to Axel Misty was glad he understood and was accepting the fact that this might not even work.

"Oh Axel, I hate to lose so I'll keep at it till it does work and you can move your hand again. I'll see you in a few days and we will go from there. Need anything anytime and you just give me a call ok?"

Misty gives Axel a card with her number on it so he really could call if he needed anything. Once Axel was gone Misty went back to the cooler and took out his blood wasting no time with the tests.

Hurt?

Mick thinks for a long moment, his mind going in a thousand directions. "I can't just have someone else out there searching... I can't just stand back and not be involved."

He finds Rosetta's eyes again. "I don't want to ask the impossible of you but... I have to help find Dylan. If it's the Agency, he won't survive very long. If it is them, the only reason can be to get to me... and if I'm the one they want, they'll just make things worse until something breaks. I have to go... I have to find him."


Gunner studies the stars and smiles a little. "Yeah... yeah, I don't want to give her up. But I don't really want to move either. I haven't been there that long and it's 'bout the only place I could afford." He shrugs. "What will be, will be."

After a quiet moment, he suddenly points to the sky. "Hey, did you see that shooting star? It just went right across your palm." He laughs. "Hope it didn't hurt."


Axel nods, mentally going through any plans. His schedule was quieter than ever, being out of work. "Sounds good to me." Taking a piece of paper and nearby pen, he jots down his cell phone number. "Just give me a call whenever you want me back in, or tell Carson - you know I see him at Bible study every week."

Standing up, he looks at Misty, grateful. "Thank you. No matter what the outcome, I appreciate your willingness to help."

< : 3 ) ~ ~ ~

Continuing with dinner Rosetta laughs with Mick and BJ both enjoying there meal. A few times laughter just rolls as BJ couldn't manage to keep a carrot on his spoon. But for the most part he was doing well learning very fast.

Finally dinner is done, and several games of checkers had been played Rosetta and Mick swaping in and out as on lost to BJ. His skills in seeing steps a head before anything was played were amazing and growing so fast. The last game played, and a story was read, kiss, water and hugs were dished out BJ was tucked in bed heading to dream land fast.

Slowly shutting the door behind her Rosetta makes her way down the hall shutting off the kitchen light as she went and aiming for the couch. Sinking down Rosetta was so tired, but this talk was coming, it was something that needed to be. So first she would listen and than talk.

Listing to everything about Dylan Rosetta had already been informed but still just hearing it from Mick and hearing the sad tone it hit Rosetta hard. She couldnt imagen how hard it must be to have your child taken and no know where he was.

"You should of let someone know Mick and not just gone off the handle like that. I know you just wanted to find Dylan, but you have a family here that needs you too."

Letting out a long sigh Rosetta leans a little more into Mick. She didnt want to sound heartless she was worryed for Dylan just like Mick was but this all should of been handled differently. Turning a little on her back so she could look up at Mick Rosetta gave a little smile.

"Now its time to start at square one. Its gone to be long its going to be hard, but the beginning is where you starts the only difference is we have a child in the house now so you need to stay in control."

Sitting up again Rosetta puts her arm around Mick to let him just nuzzle into her for the comfort she new this was hard for him, and she new this road would be long again but she would never let him to deal with it alone.

"Right now I think the best thing you can do it call Reese at TJY and let him know whats going on. Katie is going back to Nevada tomorrow and maybe Jason and Katie can look into it."

Beast

Mick's fingers tighten around Rosetta's as BJ prays, silently communicating his love. He felt lower than the floor... but he had to keep going.

Once supper starts, Mick tries to keep up conversation with BJ, hearing about the day, and forcing himself to smile and keep his tone light. Afterward, the missed checkers game is played until finally it's BJ's bed time.

After Mick has the little boy tucked in bed and on his way to sleep, he resumes his place in the living room, sinking down on the couch next to Rosetta. Leaning back, he just stares at the ceiling for a while, remaining silent.

Eventually, he puts his arm around Rosetta, pulling her sideways into his lap so he can hug her close.

"I lost control," he finally admit quietly. "I just... completely lost control." He sighs deeply, resting his head against hers as he tries to form the words. "Dylan is missing... and Jill has innocently been convinced by the authorities to keep me out of it. When I went to the station, they wouldn't give me any information at all until one guy finally talked a little. They're pretty sure Dylan's been taken - that he didn't just run off like he's done before."

Mick stops to swallow hard, his eyes closed now. "I can feel it in my gut that it's the Agency. I don't know why or how but... I feel it. And the police wouldn't listen. I pressed my luck and they threw me out of the station. On my way out of town I... I just wanted..." He sighs again. "I don't know what I wanted. But the bar was right there and... I gave in."

Nuzzling his head into Rosetta's shoulder, he's quiet again for several moments. "It's all come back... all of it. I've been dry for almost a year... and I just ruined it in one fell swoop."

Lifting his head, he looks her in the eye, just studying her gaze. "I already want to go back... but I had Wes hide my keys earlier. I just... I just want to fix things... and I don't know how, and I don't know how to cope. I've got to find Dylan... and now I can't even think straight, this beast has such a tight hold on me."

\m/ - . - \m/

Bree can't help the small smile the was behind her eyes knowing Gunner wasn't meant to had Cat but did anyways. Though she could see how attached Gunner had become to the little fuzzball.

"Why don't you fine a new place than? One that lets you have cats since you so fond of her! Would be shame to throw away a good thing right?"

Looking up and seeing Mick was upset BJ gave a smile as he wrapped his tiny arms around might giving him and even tighter hug.

"We still love you dad! I know you dust were shad."

Once put on the bed BJ waits as Mick turns around and he climbs onto his dad's back wrapping his arms lose but firmly around his neck. Letting out a shriek of laughter as they came down the hall.

Looking up at BJ's laughs Rosetta smiles as BJ and Mick come down the hall. She always liked watching Mick and BJ together they were just so cute. Giving a nod to Mick as she sat next to him on one side and BJ on the other Rosetta folds her head.

"BJ, you can pray now."

As BJ starts his prayer Rosetta unfolds her hands and reachs over taking Mick's in her own and interlocking her fingers with his.

"Dear Jesus, thank you fhor this food and for bring Dad home ok. Thank you fhor everything you have given us. Ahmen."

Misty gives a little laugh as she goes to wash her hands and than comes back to her desk once again sitting down.

"I want you to call me as much as you want. I'm quite differnt from other Dr's I want you to know as little or as more as you want. This it about you after all."

Going into her desk and pulling out a folder Misty takes her pad and a pen looking over what she had planned for the next few days.

"Well if everything works out with the tests on your blood I would like to do the small surgey next week so I can jump into doing more tests, and research. It might take a little while after that but all together I would like to have everything taken care of before christmas for you."

Two sons

Gunner remains on his back, putting his hands up behind his head. "Ooh, a tarantula and a rat. That's cool." He lifts his eyebrows slightly. "Yeah... I bet Cat would like you. 'Course... you can't tell anybody about her. I'm..." His mouth turns up into a sheepish smile. "...not supposed to have pets. I've kept her hidden for a while now but... I either gotta find her a new home or me a new home."

He tried not to let any disappointment through in his voice. He'd kinda gotten attached to the little critter, and by now, he really didn't want to have to get rid of her.


Mick doesn't hear BJ's initial call to him, but when he feels the bed move, he knows it's him. His mind was so clouded right now... somehow, he had to focus.

BJ's request for him to come so they could pray sent an undeserved warmth through him. He had it too good here... after the mistakes he'd made.

Lifting his head, puts an arm around BJ and pulls him into his lap, giving him a bear hug and a kiss on the head. Still holding him close, he speaks quietly in his ear. "I'm sorry for what happened last night, Kiddo. Dad was wrong." It was hard to apologize to an adult - even harder to a child... a child he was trying to be a good example for.

Taking a deep breath, he lets it out slowly and straightens up so he can see BJ's freckled face. He was worried sick about Dylan... but he had another son who needed his attention too. He manages to smile for BJ. "Okay... let's go so we can pray and eat."

Standing up, he sets BJ on the bed and turns around so BJ can ride on his back down the hall and into the kitchen. Arriving at the table, he slides the boy down into his seat before taking his own chair and folding his hands. His eyes meet Rosetta's. He had a lot of explaining to do... and he would talk to her after BJ was put to bed later.


Axel pays close attention to what Misty does and says, nodding at her explanation, even though he might not understand every term. "Sounds like you got it under control." He grins a little. "Makes sense to me... for someone who isn't a doctor. So... when do you think you'll want to do that initial surgery? Or is this a 'don't call me, I'll call you' sort of thing?"

Otak

Giving a small nod and a smile Bree looks back up at the stars as they twinkled in the night sky. Seeing there hand prints mapped in the sky again it made her stomach do flip flops once more as she gave a small chuckle.

"Cat..I like it very fitting."

Drawing silent again as if thinking Bree finally speaks again.

"I have two pets, Skippy my Tarantula and than there is Darwin my rat. They are actully to very interesting pets. Maybe sometime I could meet Cat?!"


Having BJ return out to her his checker bored in hand Rosetta smiles at the young boy. He was so special to her, and she was thankful for him laughing as his shirt was put on backwards.

"Come here you. Lets fit this shirt the right way."

"Mom wheres dad?"

Taking BJ's shirt off and than putting it back on him Rosetta gives the tip of his nose a kiss smile.

"He's getting changed into some clean cloths. He'll be out shortly. Now go set up your game while I put dinner on the table."

Moving around the table again while BJ was in the living room Rosetta braught everything to the table getting ready for dinner.

Coming back to the table BJ climbs into his chair and fold his little hands in front of him. Waiting to say prayers.

Looking at her son and giving a nod Rosetta smiles.

"You can say the prayers tonight ok?"

"I cant mom, I have to wait for Dad to come out!"

"We can say our prayers and when we comes out we can pray again."

BJ gives a little shake of his head looking at his mom his eyes telling her he would be stubborn on this one.

"We have to wait for Dad."

"Ok. We can."

BJ stands from his chair again giving a smile at Rosetta. He was growing so fast she could hardly keep track anymore.

"I'll go see if he is ready."

Disapearing down the hall BJ comes to the bedroom and pokes his head in.

"Dad?"

Coming into the room all the way he see Mick on the edge of the bed and goes to him. Struggling for just a moment to get on the bed he finally does and scoots close to Mick pitting his tiny hand on his back and patting it.

"Dinner is ready and we cant pwray with out you! Are you Otak?

Drawing the blood from Axel Misty is very gentil doing her best to get the vein first shot and does. Pulling out a little bit of her paperwork Misty puts it in front of Axel talks as she drew his blood.

"Well before we do anything I wanna run a few tests on you blood, see your blood type, make sure you health in all other aspects before even attempting anything. Than, I would like to do a small surgary on your hand and take out a bit of your nerve. Around your thump you have a little extra nerve tissue and I would be taking that."

Drawing silent for a moment Misty changes out the tubes of blood starting to fill another. Studying Axel for a moment before continuing.

"I will than test the nerve tissue to see if I can get it to regrow a little, or at least give some signs it will. I've been working on differnt proteens, and a neurtransmitter as well to see if I can stimulate the nerve once again."

Finishing with the second vial of blood Misty takes a peace of gause and a bandage putting it over where she had drawn the blood. Placing both vials into the cooler till she was ready to use them.

"Going aganst what most Dr's will tell you nerves never die. They simply enter a state of hibernation that they cant wake from. So what out goal is, is to get the nerves to synapses with the target."

Looking at Axel Misty didn't think she was making a lick of sense to him with all her medical terms but it was kind of fun to talk to someone about it anyways.

Cat

Mick manages a small smile and kisses Rosetta's forehead lightly. "Thank you. ...You two go ahead and eat... I don't want to make you wait."

Turning, he makes his way down the hall to the bedroom a bit slower than usual. Finding some clean clothes, he's ready to hit the shower. It doesn't take him long to clean up, shave, and get into clean clothes. Though his eyes were still tired, he looked more like himself.

Back in the bedroom, he's ready to join Rosetta and BJ, but instead, he sinks down on the edge of the bed. Leaning forward, he puts his face in his hands, too overcome to go on right now. There was just way too much he was feeling. He knew he felt sick because he'd had nothing to eat in over twenty-four hours, but the longer he was here, the clearer his mind got, and the clearer his mind got, the more crowded his emotions. He had to get up, go eat, play with BJ and talk with Rosetta... He had to get up... His legs just didn't want to carry him.


Gunner grins. "TV dinners aren't so bad once you get used to them... and ordering take out at least lets you get to know the drivers."

Finishing up his sandwich, he lies on his back for a while before wanting the fruit. Hearing Bree's question, he hesitates. "Um... I call her Cat."

He looks up at the moon, rolling his eyes at himself. "I couldn't come up with a good name so... ever since she showed up outside my door, she's been Cat."

Later

Racing down the hall again BJ went to try off and get his PJs on but stops on his way back to his room with the towel to take the time to whip up the water mess he had made before his bear little butt in the air as he cleaned up the mess. Standing up again as if remembering his close where not on. Running off into his room again BJ goes to his closet and searchs for some.

Once BJ is gone Rosetta continues to hold Mick. She loved him to much to be mad at him for to long over one slip up. It happend to the best of them and if it was her she would want a second chanse too.

"I know you are. We will talk more about it later ok?"

Pulling away from Mick and just looking at him in the eye Rosetta smiles a chuckle escaping her lips.

"Your place is already set at the table. It always will be, now go take you shower so we can eat."

Bree cant help but chuckle as she leans back on the blanket looking up at the sky. Another night was going by and it was filled with a laughter and joy she had never experienced before. Gunner made her feel differnt, a good differnt she though, he almost made her feel normal.

"I am going to guess you eat a lot of tv dinners if you think a normal turkey sandwich tastes amazing. I cant wait till you get to eat something more than this, Your never going to want to go home again."

Closing her eyes and being silent for a long moment one might think Bree had fallen asleep but she wasnt. The air washed over her the soft sounds of a busy city below seemed so far away. How relaxing, how comfortable she felt. Finally opening her eyes again Bree turns her head to look at Gunner.

"You have a cat? Whats her name?"

Well yeah

Mick's eyes roam Rosetta's as she turns from the stove. His own were bloodshot and tired, but an apology that couldn't be voiced was mirrored in them. Had she thought he wouldn't return? He'd wondered if he was even welcome.

He opens his mouth to respond, when BJ came running into the room, water flying. Mick is almost knocked off balance and he has to take his hands out of his pockets to brace himself on the doorway. All at once, he remembered yelling at the child last night... and his heart broke.

His hand runs through BJ's wet hair for a moment before he's surprised by Rosetta's embrace. He wanted to say so much, but the words just got stuck. So instead, he wraps his arms around her and holds her tight. "I'm sorry," is all his can whisper.

Knowing that BJ couldn't go ignored, Mick finally lets go of Rosetta and looks down at the boy. "Hey, Kiddo." His voice was a bit raspy, but he tries to smile for BJ's sake. "I... think you're missing something."

He quirks an eyebrow, with a stern but gentle look. "I think... it's your clothes." He scratches BJ's head lovingly. "Go dry off and put something on before supper, okay? I'll still be here when you come back." He urges the child back down the hall. "Go on... And bring your checkers board when you come back," he calls after him.

Turning back to Rosetta, he pulls her into another hug, burying his face in her hair. "I need to clean up," he mentions quietly. "But keep a place at dinner for me?"


Gunner's eyebrows raise as he takes a bite of his sandwich. "Well, yeah." His answer comes without hesitation, as if he's surprised at Bree's questioning whether he'd want to see her, even though he'd basically asked her the same thing.

He blinks, maybe surprised at his own speed in answering her. "I mean.... yes." A muffled chuckle comes out through his chewing. "I don't have anybody else to look at the stars with... except my cat... but she gets distracted easily and doesn't like hearing about Orion or Saturn fifty times."

His eyes twinkle in the moonlight as his grin remains. "Besides... a vampire doesn't make friends too easily, so he's gotta hold on to the ones he's got." He pauses, glancing down at his sandwich. "Especially... when they make food as good as this."

Innocent

Taking a bit of her sandwich after dishing everything out onto the paper plates Bree enjoys the taste for a long moment. She hadnt relized how little she even eat all day until taking that first bit of her food and her tummy gave an angry growl.

"I didn't realize how hungry I was."

Placing her plate down and taking a sip of water Bree thinks for a long moment about Gunner's question. She'd had made a comment about making Gunner a hot meal without even thinking that maybe he didnt want to even see her after this. It was strange to have said that let alone even feel close enough to someone to just make a comment like that.

Looking up at Gunner again the courners of Bree's mouth twitch a little bit the flopping in her tummy continuing.

"Well...I just though we would. I mean I would like to, that is if you would too!"

Walking into the bedroom Alice was still in awww once again. The room was so nice looking and it was now where Alice would live. Looking back to Erik Alice shakes her head.

"I think I've just stepped into a fairytale. I dont have many cloths so I wont take up much space."

Looking to Kyle and giveing a big smile Alice squeezes his hand a little. She was so excited and couldnt wait for his band to take off. Her eyes twinkled.

"I dont think there is anything else I could ask for at this point. Thank you Erik."

Standing at the stove Rosetta mixes the stew she was making. The table was set for three and BJ was in the tub washing up for the night. Rosetta hadnt seen Mick all day. Wes had told her he want for a ride but other that that she hadnt heard anything. Not turning around Rosetta yells into the bathroom.

"Are you a prune in there yet?"

Holding his hand in front of his face BJ looks at the wrinkles in his skin before looking up again.

"I'm not a prune Mom, I'm a boy."

Giving a laugh and shaking her head Rosetta loved the boys innocents.

"Well dinner is almost done, so your pruny little boy butt needs to hurry up before I eat it..."

Turning around Rosetta gives a jump as her words trail off not exspecting Mick to be standing there. For a moment standing in shock Rosetta didnt know what to say. Everything came rushing to her and where to start first was not certain.

"Mick...you came back.."

Rosetta wanted to say more but the words wouldn't come. Stepping forward Rosetta starts to go to him but a naked body from the hallway catches her eye as BJ stands looking at Mick before getting a big toothy grin.

"DADDY!!!"

And the heart of a child holds no anger, only love flows through there veins. For what they were scared about yesterday would not be the same as today.

Throwing his wet arms around Mick's leg BJ hugs him tight not letting go. It would seem the boy had forgotten about what happend last night. Looking up at Mick the boys smiles again as he dripped water all over.

"See Mom, I told you dad would be home for dinner if we waited."

Smiling back at the young boy and than back up at Mick love reflecting for both of them in her eyes. Walking closer to Mick Rosetta pulls him into a hug wrapping her arms around him. Leaning her head into his should.Oh how she had missed him.

Plush surroundings

Gunner lowers himself onto the blanket to sit cross-legged as Bree presents the food. "Mm... looks good." Anything other than the food here was great, and whenever Bree brought something, it always seemed even better.

Looking down a moment, he glances back up to her as she comments about a hot meal. "Does... that mean I still get to see you after this?"


Erik gains a smile at Alice's response. "Good. And if you two ever have any questions about what you see or hear about Kip, or anybody else for that matter - just come to me and ask. We're an open family and we don't have secrets."

He goes to open the door. "Now come on in... we got some time to kill before Twila gets back with the movie."

Erik shows them both inside, leading them down the hall and up two grand staircases. Down a plush hallway, he opens a door on the right that was to a very spacious bedroom. It was well-kept, even though it was obvious that it was not used on day-to-day basis. The decor spoke of a woman's touch - elegant, with flower print curtains on the window that overlooked the same garden that had been visible from the sun room.

Erik smiles at Alice. "Welcome to your room. You can put your things wherever you like, and use any drawers or closet space. There's a phone by the bed, and there's an outlet by the desk if you want to plug in your computer. We got wireless internet, so you should be set."

He thumbs next door. "Next one over is where Twila usually sacks out when she's over here, so if you holler in the night, she'll be there. And...." He nods a ways further down the hall. "Kyle's gonna be down here next to Kip. Need anything before supper?"


Mick slowly untacks Remington, cools him down and lets him loose in the back pasture. The day had slipped by and now the sun was starting to set. Most of the chores were already done. So far, he'd been lucky enough not to run into anybody in the barn since he'd returned from his ride.

Eventually, he makes his way to the main house. He had a limp tonight - his bad knee was acting up after a bad night and an all-day ride. He was tired, hungry, sore and miserable. He needed to shave, and he needed a shower.

Getting to the house, he steps up on the porch, but hesitates. He's tempted to knock. This was his house too... but he didn't know what had happened the night before, and he could only guess it wasn't good. He reaches for his head, forgetting he didn't have his hat on like he always did. He didn't know what had happened to it.

Sighing, he finally opens the door and steps inside. It was warm, and smelled of Rosetta's cooking. She must have decided to have supper away from the dining hall tonight. Standing in the entryway, he could hear BJ down the hall in the bathtub, half singing, half talking to his bath toys. It was a happy scene... except for him.

Turning to the kitchen, he sees Rosetta preparing supper. He didn't even know how to approach her. He was so ashamed of himself, he didn't know what to do. Tucking his hands in his pocket, he just leans against the doorway, watching her. He wasn't even sure that she wouldn't tell him to get out.

Follow

Turning around as Gunner's stomach growls Bree cant help the chuckle that escapes her lips. Following Gunner back over to the blanket she couldnt help but feel a little strange after there exchange they just had. It just felt like...she wanted to do more in that moment than she ever had before, but...it was to late now?

"Ok lets see what we got here, its not blood but its the next best thing."

Reaching into the tiny basket Bree pulls out a tiny bowl that held from mixed fruit in it, and also some sandwiches, two cans if soda to go along.

"Its not much but the only thing that taste good cold. Maybe one day I can make a hot meal for you as well."

Walking up the walkway her laptop bag in hand, along with her own duffel bag Alice's jeep parked nicely in the driveway she help tight to Kyle's hand. Excited but still scaired Alice couldnt take the smile off her face. A new adventure was unfolding in front of them.

Stopping on the pouch with Kyle and Erik Alice listened intently to what was said about Kip. Now it made sence with his sudden mood change earlier. Her heart went out to him and she felt oh so bad. But that wouldn't scar her away.

"I'd never leave Kyle's side, even if you payed me. As long as I have him, no trouble could be to great."

Giving a smile to Kyle and than back to Erik Alice gives a nod.

Risks

A little grin quirks the corner of Gunner's mouth as Bree leans back against him. Her comment makes the grin spread. Slowly, he lets his chin rest on Bree's head. "If it weren't for you... I'm not sure this vampire would have a night sky to look at right now."

His arms move a little tighter. "Thank you."

A silent moment is suddenly broken by the rumbling of Gunner's stomach. "Aw man." He can't help a brief laugh as he backs away, letting Bree go. "I guess my stomach can't live off the stars like the rest of me can."


Kyle slings his duffel bag over his shoulder and heads back to the intimidating front doors of the mansion. He and Alice hadn't needed very much time to go gather their things from the hotel, and had now returned to Erik's house.

Ringing the doorbell, this time it's Erik who answers it. He gives them both a big smile, but instead of inviting them in right away, he joins them on the porch.

"Hey, guys. Get everything?"

Kyle nods, his free hand holding Alice's. "Yep. You still sure about this?"

"Pft, of course... can you see how many rooms are in this place? I think we have the room."

Kyle laughs. "This is true."

"Um..." Erik runs a hand through his hair. "I guess I wanted to talk to you guys alone before going back inside."

Kyle shifts a little uneasily, giving Alice a sidelong glance of discomfort. "Okay... what's up?"

"I wanted to explain about Kip, just so you guys understood." Erik leans against one of the porch pillars. "He's lived here with my family for a few years now - he's pretty much like a little brother, so you'll probably see that he's got rights around here like any family member."

Kyle lifts his eyebrows, but doesn't find it too surprising. "I see."

"There's more..." Erik hesitates. "And I guess I should have told you sooner in case it affects the future."

Now Kyle is worried, and his grip tightens around Alice's hand tightens. "Go on."

"Kip's from an abusive home situation." Erik sighs, clearly bothered by it. "When he was younger, his sister died, his mom walked out, and his dad became a drunk. A few years ago, I finally got him to come live here - I guess we unofficially adopted him." He pauses to take a breath. "Thing is... his dad still hounds him. Mostly for money, since he knows he lives here. We've... tried to get Kip to cut his ties but..." He shrugs, obviously having been at a loss for a while now. "That was who was on the phone earlier. It usually upsets Kip pretty bad, but his dad has some kind of hold on him, maybe it's just because it's his dad, but Kip won't tell him not to call anymore. His dad has... threatened him in numerous ways... some connected to the band."

Kyle takes the information in and glances at Alice a couple times. He was sorry to hear that Kip had had such a rough time. He never would have guessed it of the rather hyper and funny young man. "So what you're saying is that as a band, we might run into some trouble at some time or another."

"Yes."

Kyle can't help a little grin. "Not everybody knows that JetStream has its own bodyguard since Jason, lead singer, is an Elite agent. I'm not gonna shy away from an angry father."

Erik smiles, noticeably breathing a sigh of relief. "You're okay with this then?"

"I am..."

Erik cocks his head to Alice. "We're considering you part of this too. You alright with any of this risk?"

Sky

Continuing to stand Bree looks back up at the stars squinting just a little. The feelings that kept growing inside seemed stronger than anything she ever felt before. Thought it was unknown and a little scary at the same time it was exciting.

As Gunner had his arms wrapped over Bree's shoulder she could feel her back press aganst Gunner's and the warmth from the chilly night felt good. It was a warmth that Bree had never felt before, not from man, not from parents, it was completely new to her.

Leaning her head to the side slightly Bree rests her head on Gunner's arm she runs her cheek over it just a little.

"Thank you Gunner for showing me a Vampire's night sky."

Arms

Gunner's eyes stay fixed on the stars, but all of a sudden, a strange feeling comes over him. It was one he never felt before... one he didn't recognize. He swallows hard. For some reason, the feeling of Bree's hand beneath his felt... different tonight.

Her words seemed to intensify the strange feeling and part of him wants to back away quickly, but another part wanted to stay.

"Maybe... they were." Gunner leaves his hand raised with hers, his voice growing quieter. "Even though they shift across the sky during the seasons... they remain... together."

For a moment, he doesn't say a word, his hand still against the night sky. Bree was just close enough that he could feel her warmth. The impulsiveness he felt creeping through his arms wasn't one he'd experienced before and it was a bit startling.

Giving in, was something he was even less used to. But for some reason, tonight, he... wanted to.

Slowly, his arm lowers to join his other one, bringing Bree's hand back down too. In the end, his arms were slung over her shoulders, bringing her back against his chest as he still looks up at the stars.

Feeling

One the roof once again it seemed like a safe haven even for her. Being up above the city, above the rules, here they were free and no one was around to tell them any different.

Looking over twords were Gunner was Bree gave a small smile and stands making her way over to him. Standing in front of him and lookig up to the sky Bree is a little suprised as he takes her hand in his own. Continuing to watch Bree could feeling a strange feeling in her stomach as her heart started to race faster. She had never felt like this around anyone before and she wasnt sure what to do now. But just staying quiet she let Gunner talk and guide her hand, and his own as well.

Seeing the stars and that there fingers were connected Bree went to say something but before she could get the words out Gunner was talking again.

Moving her hand a little closer to his so a few of her fingers overlapped with his. Thankful the sky wasnt as bight as it normaly was it hid the change of color in Bree's face. Her heart continuing to race as her stomach felt like is was moving.

"I think, they were ment to connect long before they were even named."

Crowded

Cindy holds back the shock of what she'd just learned and musters up a new smile as she looks up into Wes' eyes, tilting her head into his hand. "I think getting out sounds like fun, and Kaylee is still full of energy. If we wear her out, maybe she'll sleep better tonight."


"Mm... it's dangerous stalking a vampire," Gunner chides teasingly.

Pausing, he points to the book of astronomy. "We won't need those tonight."

The visit is all too short, and soon Gunner is alone again. But after a nap, the sun is going down, and he knows he needs to stay up. He'd purposely eaten very little for dinner, and now waited for his new friend to come. Right on time, when the halls were clear, she showed up. This time, he didn't need any direction as he was already prepared for the night air with a hoodie and his tennis shoes on.

Following her down and up to the roof again, once out in the air, he breathes in deeply. Fresh air never felt so good as after a long day of being cooped up.

It doesn't take long to get the telescope out, but they have to wait a little while for a slight cloud cover to pass by. Eventually, Gunner stands back and looks straight up into the sky, finding what he wanted. "Come here..." He brings Bree close to him, with her back to his chest. He takes her left hand in his and spreads out her fingers, then raises it to the sky at just the right distance until she fills out the Palm of Bree. Then reaching around the other side, he puts his right hand to the sky. Moving it inward towards hers, finally his first finger meets hers. His own handprint had been found long ago and now as they looked up at both prints, they could see that their first fingers shared a star. Both constellations were connected.

A grin spreads on his face. "Looks like we're gonna have to find another place for our handprints - it's getting crowded."

Stalker

Letting out another soft sigh Wes new how much his wife hurt from this and he hated it. He hated seeing her sad, and on the verge of tears. It only ripped at his heart that much more.

Standing and following her into the kitchen Wes couldnt help it he just wanted to be near his wife and feel her even if it was considered him being clingy. Wrapping his arms around her wast and just holding her close to him her looks up into the cabnit to see what he wanted for lunch. Nothing seeming to stright his fancy though.

"How about we pack up Kaylee and go out for lunch today, than afterward we can go to the park and just enjoy the nice day out."

Losing his grib a little Wes moves to step in front of Cindy once again and brings a hand to her face just letting his tumb run how her cheek a smile formed on his lips.

Letting her eyes smile Bree sits down on the edge of the bed happy that Gunner was in a good mood today. It was much different from when she had seen him first here and it made her feel good.

"Oh thats an easy one, I'm a stalker too or it could of just been simple observation at the ice cream shop. But I like the first one better."

Trying to keep her face straight Bree just cant, not this time and her mouth turns into a grin. A chuckle escaping her lips.

"Ok sounds good than, wait up for me again tonight and we will have or outing again. I cant wait to see what you have to show me."

How you know

Gunner was taken off guard by Bree's entrance, and jumps, looking up with slightly wide eyes. A grin quickly comes though. "Nah, vampires have to work hard - they just don't like to admit it."

Sitting up crosslegged, he spies the bag and the contents she empties onto the bed. There's a sparkle behind his eyes that he tries to hide - one that was like a little kid, anxious to discover what new things there were to see. He bites his lip and reaches for the pack of gum. "What I want to know is..." Taking a piece out, he savors the cinnamon flavor and leans sideways on the bed, his head on the mattress. "Mmm." He tries to make a basket with the crumpled wrapper before finishing his original statement. "...is how you know what all my favorites are."

He looks up at her, not bothering to stand or sit somewhere else. He throws her a glance as if she's crazy. "Like you think I'd turn down another outing? Besides, I forgot to show you something in the stars last night."


Cindy gives Wes a brave smile. She knew that letters might get through... and that there might be a few times for phone calls. But she also knew that contact was limited. While Wes was overseas, she would be lucky to hear his voice at all. But she would hope and pray for it, no matter how few times it was.

Standing abruptly, she gives Wes' hand a squeeze and moves to the kitchen cupboards. "So... what should we have for lunch?" Tears burned the back of her eyes and she forced herself not to blink, knowing that those tears would fall if she let go for just a moment. "We can have leftovers from last night, or I can make you a sandwich or... whatever you want."

So little time

Feeling's Cindy's hand on his face Wes brings his own hand put to hers covering it as he leans his head into her hand closing his eyes for a moment, making a memorie of the way her skin felt on his.

Fianlly opening them again We lowers Cindy's hand and just holds it running his thumb over her palm. Cindy had so many worrys, fears and he could almost garnette they were the same ones he was have.

"The middle of next month. Before I go I will have an address so if you want to write, and I will have my phone on me."

Wes would make sure of those two things so at least he had some kind of contact with his family. He only hopped he wouldnt be gone for two long and he would keep everyone safe.

Continuing to look back at Cindy Wes gives a smile he loved his wife so much and the time he had left before he would leave just didnt feel long enough. He had things here he needed to take care of, and make sure Cindy would be set while he was gone, He had other things as well that he needed to set up even if he didnt want to but if the worst did happen, it had to be there. And still all his time he had he wanted to spend with his family. Oh how face it would come, and how slow it would go.

Heading down the so familure hallway once again the sneakers making a light scuff across the floor Bree knocks on Gunner's door giving him a smile as he did his push up.

"You know I didnt think Vampires needed to exercise to look that good?!"

The corners of Bree's mouth turned up in a grin as she came into the room a little farther. Pulling a small bag from her pocket Bree empty is it onto Gunner's bed.

"I figured you might be dieing for some cinnimon guy, and there is a candy bar and some water."

Bree gives a smile she liked doing things for Gunner. It made her feel good, and she liked seeing the sparkle that layed behind his eyes.

Lowering her voice just a little Bree gives Gunner a wink and a heads up.

"I wouldn't eat to much tonight as dinner. I have something for us while we look at the stars again if you like that is."

Missing something

Being drawn into a hug, then brought down into a chair next to Wes, Cindy's worry increases. What was going on? Why was he so serious? What was that look in his eye that scared her?

She holds her breath, prepared for the worst, but as Wes tells her, it's proven that no matter what she had thought could be the worst, she'd have been wrong. Her heart leaps into her throat as her pulse races. She doesn't realize that she's now holding his free hand in a vice grip.

Staring at the letter, she picks it up, her hand trembling slightly as she reads the words... over... and over. Her eyes drift to the sparkling diamond on her finger... the one that signified her bond with Wes... her husband... they were taking her husband away from her.

Cindy swallows and takes a deep breath, remaining composed before she can turn her gaze back to Wes' eyes. Her own are flooded with a million and one emotions. Taking her hand, she reaches out to cradle his face, just enjoying his warmth once more. Their country needed him... and she could not be selfish.

"Then... I will pray that God brings you back quickly." Her voice wavers just a little, her tone quiet as she tries to be brave. She had to be brave... she couldn't break down now... it would only make it harder for Wes.

"When do you have to leave?"


Axel goes with the flow, not knowing what would happen, but trusting Misty. He knew Carson well enough and new of the Elite well enough that he would trust her. It wasn't often he could trust as easily, but right now, he was at anyone's mercy who said the would help.

"I guess I'm a little curious about your research," he admit. "Though probably most of it would be Greek to me."

As she goes to the cabinet, Axel takes off his jacket, knowing she would need blood from his arm. He'd been through that routine numerous times.

Turning his arm, he flexes his good hand, getting a good blood flow. "I do have all the time you need though so... you just tell me what to do."


Gunner paces the floor of his room. He sits down, stands again, paces some more then sits again. He grabs the astronomy book, flips through it, sets it back down, takes the puzzle book and tries to find some words, then is back on his feet again. He was bored. No, it was worse than bored. It was like something was missing. He wanted to talk to someone. But he never wanted to talk to anyone. It was too quiet. But he liked the quiet. He wanted some company. But he never wanted company before. Why all the contradictions all of a sudden? He didn't get it.

Dropping to the floor, he starts to do some pushups to clear his mind. His talk with Hope had gone well. He'd had another session with a different doctor and that had gone alright. Lunch had been... tasteless, but uneventful. So what was his problem?

"Ten... eleven... twelve...."

Was there something in particular he wanted? What was missing?

"Seventeen... eighteen..."

Bree.

"Twenty-four... twenty-five..."

Bree.

He shakes his head, his arm muscles straining. That was silly. He just saw her the night before. Why did his mind want to wander to her?

"Thirty... thirty-one... thirty-two..."

Maybe he just wanted to look at the stars again. It would be dark in a few hours. Would he get to go outside again? There was one more thing he wanted to show Bree in the sky.

"Thirty-five... thirty six..."

Bree.

He collapses on the floor. Fine. So he was Bree he wanted to see. She just livened things up was all, and he.... misses it.

blood

Picking the leafs off of Kaylee and out from under her little hat Wes shakes his head giving a laugh as her looks at his daughter.

"How you got those there, I am not sure I want to know you silly little one."

Continuing to pull the leafs off finally Wes gets the last one off and pucks up his daughter to bring her back inside. Talking Kaylee's jacket off and her hat once more Wes takes her over to the playpen to set her down for now turning on of her kid movies on to watch.

Going back to the kitchen where Cindy was Wes knows by the look on her face she already new something was wrong and it killed him that much more.

Pulling her into a strong for a long moment Wes just wants to sink in the moment, getting lost in the today and hoping tomorrow wont come, but no matter how much he'd wish it didnt work that way.

Sinking down into one of the kitchen chairs He brings Cindy to one next to him. Reacing into his pocket her pulls out the horrible note once more sliding it across the table to her.

"I got this yesterday, its a note I am being called back over seas. I tryed calling everyone I could yesterday and today asking them if there was a way that I could work at a base close to home so I could be with my family."

Letting out a long sigh Wes is quiet for a moment before continuing.

"I am going to be a Sargent of my own special force team. I dont know how long I will be gone yet but I am can only hope a few months."

Giving a nod to Axel Misty straightens again. She couldnt help but be a little excited. She loved researching things and finding cures for others.

"Ok, well all I am going to need from you right now, is to draw some blood and than a little time as I do some research and run a few tests. I have a good foot hold in the door already its just a whole new game when have something to test everything on."

Standing and going to one of the cabnits to get what she needed to draw some of Axel's blood she continues talking. With something like this is was always good to be open so the pashent new at least a little of what was going on.

"If at any time you want to see my notes, research or anything just ask and I will be more than willing to show you."

Leaves

Axel watches Misty as she examines his hand, curious but trying not to hope too much. He chuckles. "I've been through enough pain - what's a little more? Right now, all I got is a checking account that's draining because I can't work like this so I got all the time in the world. You just tell me what to do and when, and I'm game."


Cindy smiles as Wes comes into the house, returning his kiss as her eyes sparkle. "She's really been good this morning." She comes down Kaylee's hair with her fingers. "But she was getting a little rambunctious with her breakfast."

Laughing, she shakes her head. "Go on, you two. Have fun outside." Looking into her husband's eyes though, as he leaves, a strange feeling creeps up on her. Why did he seem... sad? She tries to shake it off, figuring it's her imagination.

The next half hour, Cindy is able to clean up the kitchen to her satisfaction, wiping up after Kaylee's breakfast, then washing dishes and sweeping the floor. It always felt good to have a clean house - to have accomplished a task. She knew Wes liked to keep things neat, and she prided herself in being able to please him that way.

Finally finished, she looks out the window over the sink, smiling at Wes playing with Kaylee. Shaking her head, and still smiling, she goes to the back door to call them in. "Alright, house is clean." She waves to Kaylee who has leaves stuck all over her. "Looks like Daddy needs to brush you off before he brings you back in though."

Waiting for them to come inside, Cindy paces a little, her mind having gone back to wondering what Wes wanted to talk about.

Talk

Opening her eyes as Eli comes back into the room Ryan isnt even sure how long he had been gone. After she'd left she had felt tired and closed her eyes. Eli could of been gone hours and she wouldn't have known it. Giving a smile at her brother Ryan was thankful he was here to keep her chin up.

"Well I wish you guys would make up your minds, no wonder I never dates before."

Letting out a long sigh Ryan tryed to make sure joke out of it but it just didnt help lighten the subject at all.

"I wont give up, just going to give him the space he wanted. Its all I can do right now."

Giving her brother another smile Ryan turns her head to look out the window an almost far away look in her eye. Maybe thinking of what was to come, or thinking of the past.

Listing to Axel Misty takes down to few notes before reaching across her desk and taking his hard. Turning his hand over, and than over again Misty studys it from the outside seeing the damge before even going deeper.

"Well I can tell you I wouldnt charge anything. Like I said before your the one being the guinea pig. As long as you have pashents and dont mind coming here over and over again, waiting, and probley a little pain involved I will be more than willing to help you."

Misty new what she would do first if Axel would agree. It wouldnt be anything on him right away but a little more research maybe even a sample from him.

Leaning quietly in the door way Wes watchs Cindy as she talks to Kaylee not making his presence known. He offten liked watching them staying quiet and just watching. Almost as if making imprints into his own mind to remember.

Entering the room all the way Wes comes up behind Cindy and rests his hands on her shoulders before leaning over and giving her a kiss on the for head.

"Everything I look at you both I think I have a heart attack. My two beautiful girls."

Moving around to the side of Cindy Wes reaches down and pics his little girl up lifting her up high into the air and moving around in little circles making airplane noises.

"How about we get you bundled up and go outside to play so mommy can do somethings inside huh?"

Turning to his wife Wes smiles leaning to give Cindy a gentil kiss on the lips. Just looking deep into her eyes for a long moment all of his own love pored out. How was he going to tell her? He already new it was going to be hard for her and her was going to be so upset.

"Take all the time you need, I'll keep this one busy. But after words I need to talk to you about something."

Giving her another kiss as to say not to worry Wes couldnt help the sadness that he felt that passed through his eyes before turning to get Kaylee bundled up and take her out to play.

Da!

"Hmm... well, I'm sure he won't bother you again." Eli focuses back on the card game, falling quiet for a little while until he eventually get up and stretches. "I'm gonna take a little stroll... I'll be back, alright?"

Ambling down the familiar hall, Eli nods to a few people that he'd seen while spending so much time here. Wandering downstairs, he glances into the cafeteria but decides he's not really hungry, then aims for the front desk. Sure enough, Leo was right on time.

Eli comes up casually beside him, leaning on the counter as Leo was apparently waiting for the nurse to look something up. "You don't strike me as a candy striper."

Leo swings his gaze around in surprise, his eyebrows raised. "Eli, right?"

Eli nods. Other than their heated exchange, they hadn't officially met. "You do have some strange habits, I'll give you that."

"What are you talking about?"

"When a man cares enough to come every day to check up on a girl, but hasn't the guts to see her face, she's better off without him."

Leo straightens, his eyes narrowing. He opens his mouth to retort, but Eli cuts him off.

"Don't blame me - I'm not the one making it obvious by hanging around here every day."

Leo turns and folds his arm over his chest, already ticked off. "Is that all you wanted? To come down here and make me look like a fool?"

Eli shakes his head calmly. "Nope. But you coming here and inquiring at the desk every day doesn't do nothin'. Ryan's fine and will be going home soon. The only complaint she has is the man that walked out of her life, who she misses terribly."

Surprise flashes in Leo's eyes. "Is this some kind of joke? Are you trying to mock me?"

"No. I'm not kidding, Leo. Ryan misses you. I don't know what kind of screwy mess she got herself into with you, but our family has thick skulls. Sometimes we have to take the hard way around just because the other way is too easy. She might have had less than honorable intentions to start out... but I know my sister, and I can tell when she's telling the truth. And right now - she misses you. She fell for you whether you want to see it or not."

Leo grits his teeth, his pulse having quickened. His eyes blaze, angered by Eli's intrusion on his personal life, and fighting to figure out what was really true. "Is that all?"

"No. Where's Roth?"

"Out," Leo scoffs. "They caught him, had him in jail for two days, then all of a sudden, no one could prove anything, so they let him go. I heard he was back at the races and nobody will stand up to him anymore. He's a bigger tough guy than he was before."

"Hmm..." Eli nods. "Alright. Thanks. See you around."

Leo is left standing alone again, staring after Eli. Sighing, he heads back for the door, ignoring the nurse who was about to tell him that Ryan would be going home soon.

Eli comes back into Ryan's room, a smile on his face. "I think they model hospitals after labyrinths." He takes his seat again and sighs. "Nice day out there though."

Quiet for a moment, he cocks his head at his sister. "By the way... don't give up on Leo yet. Sometimes guys just take a little longer than you women to figure things out."


Axel grins and takes the seat Misty offered near the desk. Listening, he nods a little. "Yeah, Carson said he didn't know a whole lot about this particular research, but he was guessing I'd be a guinea pig."

Paying closer attention to what Misty was saying, another little grin surfaces. "I figure the end result can't be any worse than what I got now. See, I would have gone to a hospital or something, but I can't afford it, and my insurance won't cover it. So I'm a mechanic with a lame hand - not a great combination." He shrugs. "Carson thought I might get away with something I could afford, if I'd be willing to be a test subject and... I guess I am."

Bringing his hand up to the desk so Misty could see, he turns it a little. "I got some mobility, but it's all numb, so I wind up dropping everything I pick up and the like. This is where it started." He points to the scar on the top of his hand, and the matching one on his palm. "I had a knife straight through there at one time. I was in prison at the time and they didn't have the greatest medical facility. Healed up alright, but they said there was nerve damage. I started experiencing some pain, and eventually I saw a specialist. They said they could do surgery, but if anything went wrong, I could lose the use of my hand. At that point, it wasn't worth the risk so... I put it off."

Sighing, Axel shakes his head. "Not that long ago, the pain got worse. It would just shoot through my whole hand. The only thing that helped was to massage the area until it calmed down again." He figured he needn't say that Jess was the one with that talent.

"I still put off doing anything 'cause I could still use it most of the time. But then it started getting numb after the pain. Then recently it just didn't go away. Figured if the risk was losing the use of my hand then... I didn't have anything to lose anymore."

He looks at Misty, trying not to be hopeful. "I'm game for whatever you want to try. I know it's been long enough that there's probably a lot of scarring in the way and it might not even be doable this late in the game."


"Da!" Kalyee squeals and throws her hands up, food flying.

Cindy turns from the sink and smirks at her daughter, but she can't help a laugh. "If 'Da' were here, I'd have him clean you up instead of me." Shaking her head she takes a wet cloth to go and clean off Kaylee and the highchair.

Kaylee gurgles and shakes her head. "Ja!"

"No, Jason's not here either, hon. It's just you and me."

"Brmm da!"

Cindy grins. "If you say so. How about we clean this place up so Daddy doesn't have a heart attack when he gets back, hmm? But I think that means the playpen for you because I can't keep up with your shenanigans and clean at the same time."

Kaylee giggles and smiles big as if she were a sheepish angel.

Shot

Giving a nod of thanks to his brother Wes new here his family would be taken care of. Even if he was worried still it would be eased just a little bit.

Letting out a sigh and turning from his brother Wes continues to the house to see Rosetta and BJ. He'd stay there a little while before going back to Cindy and talking with her.

Ryan can't help the slight color that came to her face at Eli's comment. No matter how many times someone would give her a comment she would probley never get use to it.

Once the subject it off Leo Ryan feels a little better. Its was still talking about Leo and thinking of him maybe interested in another person but Ryan had to move past it, it was just going to take a little bit.

"Yeah, he's another guy that raced with me went by the name of Roth. He's one of those big guys that thinks they can boss everyone around. I dont know if they ever got him or not the police or not. More than likly I would say no. When we are out there racing we really take everything into our own hands or thats what the law enforcement thinks anyways."

Giving a little shrug Ryan continues to play the card game not looking at her brother. It was hard to talk about still what had happened at the race and almost ended her life. Not to mention thinking Roth was still out there kind of scaired her, but she didnt want anyone to know that.

Looking up from her desk and seeing Axel Misty was a bit suprised but a smile forms on her face anyways. Carson had mentioned to her once about Axel's hand but never really went into much detail. Having a new challange in helping someone was always nice to keep her mind going.

"Why Hello Axel, its good to see you again. Please come in and take a seat."

Continuing to smile Misty new it must have felt alittle stangs for Axel to be here and asking for help but she was happy he had.

"I have been doing some research I guess you could say its my specialty. Digging deeper into things and make something possable form the imposable."

Leaning back in her chair for a moment studys Axel for a long moment before leaning forward on her desk again.

"Well if you really want my help its going to take a while, and this is all just experimental I guess you could say seeing as its never been proven to work. I promise I wont make you deformed looking or anything eather."

Misty cant see the skeptacle look in Axel's eye and dosnt blame him. If she was in his shoes she would be the same way. Just being a tets subjest could be hard for anyone not really knowing the out come.

"How about this..if you have time now let me take a look at your hand and have you tell me what happened. I can explain what my research has come up with so far in helping you and than if you want to give it a try we can. If not you can walk away no harm done. What do you say?"

Research

Sparky nods, quiet for a moment. He couldn't imagine what Wes must feel. He knew his brother loved his country, but now that he had a family... it was much different.

"I'm sorry. We'll be here for you... whatever you need." He gives Wes' arm a pat. "You can go check on Rosetta... when you tell Cindy, make sure she knows whatever she needs... it's here."


Eli smirks a little. "Yeah, well, he won't find one as cute as you. I think he wound up with the short end of the stick on this one." He tosses Ryan a wink. "Brother's privilege to brag about his sister."

Pausing, he concentrates on the game for a few minutes. "So... we never really talked about this guy who got you into this hospital in the first place. He's another racer, right?"


Axel wanders down the hallway, feeling a little lost. He'd been in here a time or two, but hadn't been paying very good attention. A woman ends up pointing him in the right direction and he finally finds his way to the infirmary. Looking in, he sees Misty at her desk. He recognized her - they had met a few times and they saw each other at church, but they hadn't interacted very much. He was friends with Carson, but Misty seemed just an acquaintance.

He clears his throat and knocks, wandering in a few steps. "Misty?" He offers a small smile. "Um... sorry to bother you, um... I... talked to Carson a while ago. My girlfriend wanted me to come, um..."

Axel feels a little retarded, not sure how to ask what he wants. He gestures to his lame hand. "I've got some major nerve damage and I've lost the use of my hand. Carson said that you'd been doing some research and... well, I don't know... I guess maybe I'm just looking for some help and I got desperate."