Noon

"Hasnt she had enough of that though? She just wants to know her family and belong. I know and see where your coming from and its not my place to change my mind. I was just saying what I felt is all."

Looking down at her paper work on her desk Angel was ready to start again before look up as Trent was about to leave. Part of her wanted him to stay It was nice talking to him again they always had good conversations. But she new it was his choice.

"Than stay longer, and get more of a taste for this side Trent don't just give up yet."

Looking up at Gunner as he gets up Bree can sence the mood change and it just makes her heart ack more for Gunner.

"Yeah you will. Call me when you want to do some star gazing."

Looking down again Bree picks at the table for a moment before looking up again and giving a small smile.

"Try and enjoy the rest of your day ok?"

Digging into her purse Bree finds some money and throws it on the counter along with the other from Gunner. Standing and going the same way he was.

Looking up to the sound of someone entering the barn. Looking around the stall a smile forms on Dan's lips as he see Jade. Stepping out into the isle and removing his hat throwing in on one of the rails she puts his hands on his hips.

"Well look who showed up. I thought for sure after that late night last night I wouldn't see you till at least noon."

Quirking a smile Dan was happy to see Jade. It was a nice break in the day and the company made time go by so much faster.

Soon?

Trent stops pacing to look at Angel, mulling over her own logic. "Maybe if Jasmine comes and I'm not here, it would be a good reality check for her."

Turning to leave, he hears her final statement, and he pauses with his hand on the doorknob. "Family doesn't always deserve to belong. I'd like to believe it's as simple as you say, but... I have yet to see how it works that way. I've been on the other end for too long."


Gunner doesn't move for a moment, other than gritting his teeth. His eyes remain down and he shrugs. "Ah well... I guess that's what I get."

Pulling back his hand, he stands from the table and fishes in his pocket to pay for the float. He didn't want Bree to have to pay for a half-eaten treat. "I gotta get back to work," he mumbles. "I'll see you soon?"

Sorrys

"She's a girl who dosnt know the word Trent. Someone who had been locked away for the better part of her life its only normal for her to have the hole in her heart."

Angel lets out a sigh as she stands the Pents where hard people, with thick skin and skulls who once they had an idea in there head it was hard to sway them.

"Maybe Katie dosnt have a right, but I guess I can deffilty say she is a Pent alright. You guys all have the same quality. You do what you think is right and no one can sway you. More than likly she inharited her Aunt's vision to see the unspoken."

She did feel bad for Trent, maybe his past wasnt the greatest, and maybe he had hurt her many times but the past was what it was and now was what it was. Her heart went out to him.

"The past never rests untill the wrongs are put right Trent. I just hope that if you do leave Jasmine doesn't come here looking for you because I don't think that would help her at all."

Letting out another small sigh Angel looks at Trent again and puts a soft hand on his shoulder. Before going back to her desk to sit down again.

"Your always welcome here Trent, and you know that. This is family, and family always belongs together."

Sitting at the table Bree was enjoying her time talking with Gunner. Though she didnt like talking about her family much but it was nice to share a little of her past with Gunner.

As Gunner goes to take his phone call Bree turns to her bag searching around for something. She thought she had brought the small toy with her but it looks like she hadnt only to be met by the next bit of new that told her maybe it was a good thing.

Hearing about what happened to Cat and seeing the look on Gunner's face it breaks Bree's hard. She loved animals and hated to see any of them die not to mention she new how much Gunner likes Cat.

"Oh Gunner, I am so sorry."

Reaching across the table Bree places her hand on top of Gunner's. She wasnt sure what else to say. She felt horrible but nothing seemed to sum everything up.

Fatal Accident

Trent's eyes remain down, and for a few moments, he's quiet. "Just because I found Jasmine, doesn't mean it was the plan. Obviously God allowed it to happen, but now I've at least been able to help her get a start as far as finances are concerned. That's enough... she doesn't need to know what kind of a father I am. I don't want to have to explain what happened and why. She should be satisfied with just getting her life back and not be worried about digging up the past. And Katie has no right to interfere."

Standing up, he paces in a little circle. "I didn't even know she knew. I asked that only a few people here knew, then that was it. And I had Ryder's word he wouldn't tell." As far as he knew, it was only Mick and Rosetta, Angel and Luke, Becky and Jim and Eric. He didn't think Jeff or Jay knew, and he didn't think the younger generation had been informed. That's how he wanted it - there was no point in spreading it around. But now he wondered if everyone knew it anyway. Secrets weren't easily kept in any of the families around here, and maybe that was fine. "But not Jasmine!"

Realizing he was finishing a statement that had not been voiced, he looks to Angel lamely. "For once in my life, all I want is peace... all I want is to be able to walk away from the past and leave it where it belongs. But at every corner, something comes to haunt me."


Gunner nods a little, listening to Bree. He liked to hear her talk. Learning a little more about her family, nothing surprised him.

"Good thing you and your uncle get along so well then. Seems he kinda likes keeping an eye on you like his own daughter."

His phone rings. Rolling his eyes, he looks at the number. Not recognizing it, he furrows his brow and apologizes to Bree. "Sorry. Hang on." Answering it, he listens. "Hello? Yes, this is he." He rolls his eyes and mouths "Brent" with annoyance.

During the next few moments though, his face changes. Something was wrong. Something had happened. His tone becomes quieter and subdued. "Oh I see. No, that's fine, um... Yes. Thank you for letting me know."

Shutting his phone, he stares at the table as if in another world, his face tight with the tension of his thoughts. "That was my neighbor."

He slips his phone back in his pocket and takes his float again, still not looking up at Bree. "Fire alarm went off in the apartment building. False alarm, but my apartment was checked. Cat got out."

Gunner swirls his straw around, watching the rest of the ice cream melt into the frothy rootbeer. "She got hit by a car."


"Naw... not really important." Leo tries to shrug it off. "Just something I was supposed to help with this weekend. There will be other times though."

He forces a smile, even though it was obvious that something had disappointed him. "A movie sounds good."

Getting up from the table, he walks slowly to the living room, sinking down in the corner of the couch. It didn't seem any way he sat was comfortable though, as he tries to sit so his ribs didn't hurt, but nothing seemed to work.

Rich and Famous

Angel rolls her eyes, she new now why Trent wanted to leave it was because if Jasmin came here to look for him He didnt want to be here. But she did have a hard time believeing Katie would just come forward and say hey guess what.

"Did Katie really say she was going to tell Jasmin about you? Or did she say she was going to lead her in the right direction Trent?"

Sitting next to Trent Angel did feel bad for him and couldnt imagen what was going on inside. He was trying to do what he thought was right, and he did have a point no one else should be in involved. But in a way she could see where Katie was right now too. She had just found out her father was not the man she thought was and almost lost he real dad. Giving a little sigh Angel looks up at Trent again.

"Going where people dont know you wont solve anything. By now you should know Trent running from the past does nothing but bite harder in the end. Things happen a reason that only God knows. Dont you think if you weren't meant to find your daughter you wouldn't have?"

Angel didnt want to push she just wanted to help Trent. They had been to close at one point in time for him not to still be her friends, and for her to care about him.

Sitting back for a moment as Gunner asks about her family Bree just thinks for a long moment. She could feel a churn in her stomach, she always hated talking about her family.

"Before that we didn't see much of each other. He lived here and I lived quite a ways away. It wasnt till a few years back I spent time driving here, for days, weeks and than finally I spent so much time here in Nevada that I figured I might as well move here."

Taking a sip of her float till there was nothing left in the cup she continues sucking through the staw till it made a loud noise. Finally finished getting the very last drop Bree puts the cup down.

"Before that well...there wasnt much before that. I didnt fit in with my family at home, and there way of life. I was to strange as they would say. My dad's a senator, and my mom is living the life of the rich and famous. Me, I like it here where I can work for what I went and have a job because I enjoy it."

Finishing up in the kitchen Ryan trys not to pay attachen to Leo's conversation on the phone. It was non of her never mind but she couldnt help over hear the strange conversation eather. Coming back over to the table Ryan sits.

"I hope it wasnt anything to important you missed out on."

Nodding at the phone as a sigh she was talking about whatever his phone call was. Taking note to the werry look on Leo's face Ryan new his body had been through alot and probley just wanted to relax and heal.

"How about we pop in a movie so you can relax?"

Claustrophobic

Leo's eyebrows rise at Ryan's insistence. "Um... okay then... I guess I'll stay for a while. I still need to make a few calls though." He grimaces. "I think my cell phone got smashed the other night."

Eli reaches around behind him to take the cordless off the wall and hand it to him. "All yours." He rises from the table, going to put his boots on, while glancing casually back at Ryan. "Gonna go for a ride. I'll be back in a while."

Leo has to stop and remember the number he's trying to dial. Once he's connected though, he tries not to let it bother him that he wasn't alone at this end of the conversation. "Hey, Jan. Yeah, it's Leo... I know, I know... I got into a bit of a scrape, I'm sorry I didn't show up.... No, I'm fine, but I won't be able to make it tonight. Nuh-uh... I know, but Chris will have to fill in for me. He's wanted to anyway. ...No, next Saturday I should be able to be back on schedule. Yeah. ....Don't worry about it. If anybody asks, just tell them I'm not feeling well - that much is true. ...No, I'm fine, don't worry about it. ...Okay. Thanks. Later, bye."

Ending the call, he sets the phone aside, trying to think if there was anyone else he needed to call. Even his brain seemed to hurt. Folding his arms, he lets his head down to rest on them. He'd slept all night - he shouldn't be tired.


Gunner's eyes find Bree's. He knew she meant it that he could call her any time, and it was a bit of a comfort, even though he knew he'd probably never take her up on it. "Thanks."

He takes another sip from his float, then looks at his watch. He'd barely been there but a few minutes, and already, he had a nagging feeling that he needed to get back to work. Or was it that he didn't want to be vulnerable today so he just wanted to escape to some place he wouldn't be thinking about himself? His leg starts bouncing again.

"So when I was looking at pictures at your uncle's, I saw lots of him and you in the last few years but.... not a whole lot before that..." He lets his phrase trail off, not wanting to pry, but wondering about the family connections.


Trent shrugs lamely at Angel's question. "I don't know... I just feel... claustrophobic or something."

He looks down at his hand, running a finger along the new bandage. That really wasn't the truth. "I've never belonged here... even after everything I've done to try and make up for the past I just.... I just don't fit. And now...." He stops, refusing to look back up at Angel. "Katie's gone to meddling and she's gonna do all but tell Jasmine straight out about me."

His shoulders drop. "If she wasn't my niece, I woulda had it out with her right there. No one has any right to interfere with my decisions for my personal life."

Trent knew he sounded awfully grouchy, and he tries not to be. "Maybe I just want to go somewhere where no one knows me, I don't know."

Always

Ryan rolls her eyes looking back at Leo.

"If I didnt know you hurt so much at the moment I'd slap you upside the head."

Washing up the few plates Ryan keeps her back to the other two until she was finished and drying her hands off. Looking at her brother she just shakes her head.

"If I had plans today I wouldn't have bothered to invite you to stay. So dont give me that I dont wanna bother you crap when you know darn well your not."

Ryan spoke her mind no matter what and she new it though her tone with Leo was differnt it that the softness to it still it stern showing she ment what she said.

It wasnt often Bree smiled in public but this was one of those time. Cocking her head a little bit she looked back at Gunner searching his eyes.

"In time, yes. Your body just has to adjust. It might take a little bit, but they will slowly stop."

Taking another sip of her float Bree felt bad for Gunner. The dreams that came were horrible, they were never fun for anyone no matter who they where.

"If you ever need someone to call when you wake up, I'll always listen."

Wrapping Trent's hand up Angel was a little surprised by his comment of leaving. He'd just got here not to long ago and he wanted to leave already?

"Why would you want to leave? Everyone likes having you around and I know Rosetta enjoys having her family close."

Finished with his hand Angel sits down in one of the chairs next to Trent to look up at him and search his eyes.

It had been a long time since the spark between them was there, but for many years that had shared much with eachother and been close. Even now there was still the small hints behind the eyes, and lines of knowing something more was going on. But how far should Angel push?

"Where would you go that you cant get here?"

Just tired

Leo is slouched just a bit in his chair - sitting too straight hurt too much at this point. "I don't wanna get in your guys' way..." Though he really didn't want to go home yet.

He glances at Eli, whom he barely knew, then back to Ryan. "You can take me home if you want... or something." It sounded lame, and he knew it. "I mean... I got a couple phone calls to make and... I don't wanna mess up your schedule or anything."


Gunner winds up grinning, and he shrugs at Bree. "If you wanna come over later, you can. There's access to the roof at my apartment and it's not a bad spot to go stargazng." This he knew.

He ventures a sip of his float, only then realizing his hunger once again. But instead of ordering more food, he glances back to Bree. "The nightmares will stop... won't they?"


Trent keeps himself from complaining about Angel's care - after all, he was the one that had come here. Sitting down in a chair, he keeps his hand on the table, so she could do whatever she needed to with it.

"Oh, a little," he comments in response to her question. "Tired... frustrated... you name it, I guess." He shrugs. "Just tired of life. Maybe I need to get out of here, I don't know."

Fat

Giving a smile as she see Leo come into the kitchen she new he had to be sore all over but she gave him credit for at least trying to movie.

"Your part of the family too, so we wanted to wait for everyone to be here."

Enjoying the meal Eli had always been the good cook in there family taking after there dad. Ryan did ok, but she'd rather race and eat something out of a can. Looking up at her brother as he mentions the other guys and asking about Leo it felt good to know they cared about him that much and showed him he did have friends.

"No work today for me. My wrist is hurting pretty bad this morning and I'd rather not push my luck over doing it. Tomorrow I will be working though."

Taking a few more bites of her food and cleaning her plate off Ryan falls a little silent just enjoying the meal. But once it was done Ryan takes her plate, and the others putting it into the sink.

"I was thinking maybe we all could go out and do something but I know your still feeling sore Leo, so maybe we can stay in and play cards or something? Eli cheats though so watch out!"

Taking a sip of her float Bree new Gunner would have some bad days, some restless nights that would be normal for a little bit before he got use to everything. Bree couldnt help but feel bad for him.

"Well, maybe tonight we can take some time to look at that stars! Maybe that would help you sleep!"

Maybe if she kept Gunner company it would help a little. Not that she was baby sitting him but just simply keeping him company.

"I'd like to meet Cat anyways."

Looking up at Trent Angel gives him a half smile and a you should know better look.

"Like you think I am gonna let you get away that easy? Fat chance, your gonna sit here and let me look it over the right way."

Going over to the counter and cleaning her hands Angel gets the few items she would need. Seeing the cut it wouldnt need stiches but some cause and salution.

"Everything ok today Trent? You look...tired maybe!"

Million pieces

Eli grins and shakes his head. "Nope, I think I got it covered. Just make sure you have an appetite, and we should be good." He stirs the scrambled eggs on the stove, checking the bacon too.

"Glad Leo's up this morning. Part of me wondered if he'd even be able to get up at all. The other guys implied he was kind of a klutz around the shop, but he's a tough one to be doing as well as he is."

It takes a while for Leo to get his shower taken and put clean clothes on. It didn't matter which way he moved, or what muscles he was using - it all hurt. Finally done, he walks slowly back down the hall to the kitchen. He sees Eli and Ryan have breakfast on the table already, and he apologizes. "Sorry... you guys didn't have to wait."

Eli looks up and studies him for a moment. "We did, and don't be sorry. How ya feeling?"

"Um... a little better after my shower... I think." He still held his side as he eased down into a chair. "I need to call Darrel."

"Already talked to Miles," Eli informs. "He called to see how you were, and he said he'd tell Darrel you wouldn't be in for a day or two. The other guys were asking about you too."

Leo manages a little smile. It felt good to have friends like his. He glances to Ryan. "Aren't you working today?"


Gunner barely notices when the floats arrive at the table, and he gives a nod, his eyes stuck in a far away stare. "Yeah... yeah." He rubs his face and tries to be more alert. "Every time I closed my eyes last night, it was a nightmare," he admits. "So I guess my brain decided it just wasn't going to try and sleep at all." He tires to shrug it off as if it didn't bother him much. "Cat kept me company."


Trent winces as Angel looks his hand over. "Broken coffee mug. One minute it was in my hand, the next it was on the floor in a million pieces and I had this nasty cut."

He hadn't been paying attention is what had happened. He'd been upset by what Katie had told him, and had not watched what he was doing. One slip and he'd created a mess. He only hoped now that Angel didn't see the rampant emotions in his eyes. The only problem was that he knew even after all these years, she could still read him well.

"Just wrap it up, I'll be fine."

Old Friends

Feeling Rick's hand on her shoulder Misty looks up at him and smile. Her eyes sparked with the excitement and thrill of researching, and finding the answer.

"I'm to excited about this whole thing to sleep Rick. I love doing this kind of stuff."

Looking down at her papers again Misty writes something down quick as she thinks about it. Though once finished writing her lets out a sigh and looks to Rick again.

"Oh, you win this time I guess I will take a nap down the hall. I wont be gone long though if you need me. Thanks Rick."

Standing and making her way down the hall Misty enters the small bedroom laying down on the bed. As soon as her head hits the pillow Misty is out hope she would wake soon, work a little more and than go to lunch with Carson.

Standing with Leo Ryan slings his one arm over her shoulder. Taking small steps she didnt move to fast.

"Come on let me her you, but I only go as far as the bathroom doorway. Your on your own from there."

Once getting Leo to the bathroom door and giving him another kiss Ryan lets him be and heads to the kitchen to meet her brother and see what he was up to. Coming up alone side of him it almost remanded her of the years pass so long ago.

"It brings back good memories having you here. Anything I can do to help?"

Seeing Gunner come in Bree can't help the smile on her face as the waitress that had been there the day before rolled her eyes and braught over the two floats she had already on stand by.

"Glad you could make it Vamp. He's my vampire you know!"

Bree nods to that waitress as her face emotionless. Turning back to look at Gunner Bree raises her eyebrow as Gunner Bree could see how tired he was, she felt a little tired herself but not as bad as Gunner.

"Rough night?"

Looking up at the sound of the door opening Angel comes face to face with Trent. Just standing there for a long moment, finally her mouth turns into a smile. Though Trent was staying at the ranch it wasnt often Angel saw him as he kept to himself.

Finally letting her eyes fall a little to his hand Angel moves around the table quickly taking his hand in her own.

"Trent what happened?"

Unwrapping Trent's hand Angel looks at the deep cut and cant help but cringe a little herself. Hoping it was once cleaned he would be lucky and wouldnt need stiches.

Cleaning

Rick turns from his work at the counter and quirks an eyebrow at Misty's talking. Setting aside what he was doing, he ambles over to her, setting a hand on her shoulder. "It will take twice as long to solve a problem when your brain is half asleep," he whispers.


"Mmm..." Leo thinks, trying to clear his mind of the night's fog. "I think a hot shower would do some good... if I can actually get up and walk."

Trying to ignore the pain, he manages to sit up, though puts a hand to his ribs. He would hate to see how his face looked in the mirror. Without looking, he knew he had two shiners, more bruises on his cheeks, and he knew his lip must still be a bit swollen.

"Set of clothes in the bathroom!" Eli calls from the kitchen.

Leo manages a little grin. "Can't say no to that..." Standing up, he's a bit unsteady. He'd thought he was sore lying down. Standing up was murder. "...unless I can't even make it that far."


Gunner crumples up another piece of paper and throws it towards the wastebasket, but misses. Grunting, he ignores it, and turns back to the files strewn all over his desk. He looks at the clock as his stomach growls. He hadn't had any breakfast, and it was about lunchtime now.

Knocking his elbow into a stack of papers, it goes flying by accident. Growling, he puts his face in his hands, trying to regroup his brain. It didn't work though. Sighing, he looks up again, only to spot his phone that he'd misplaced when he'd arrived earlier. Picking it up, he realizes he has a message...

...Entering the little diner, Gunner glances around at the few customers. He hadn't bothered calling Bree back, and he wondered if she would even still be there. She was - he spotted her at the table where he'd first seen her.

Sliding in the booth across from her, he hoped he didn't look as weary as he felt, but something told him he looked terrible. "Hi... sorry I'm late. Had a bit of... cleaning to do."


Trent rinses his hand in the sink, but the blood doesn't want to stop. He'd cut his palm more deeply than he'd thought. Growling, he wraps a towel around it, knocking over the useless box of bandaids. Heading back out of the bunkhouse, he goes for the infirmary, remembering he hadn't seen Angel at breakfast, and knowing she was probably working.

Knocking before entering, he looks for her, still holding his hand in the towel and feeling stupid.

Home

Giving a smerk to Jeff Katie tilts her head a little as her eyes spark for a moment.

"One second let me get him on the line here."

Pulling her emotions together Katie pushs them to the one who could understand them the most.

Good Morning You, My dad told me to tell you before I left to keep an eye one me.

Katie gave a little laugh as she looks back down at her dad giving a big grin. Being able to talk like this was handy sometimes and helped easy missing him.

And thought the last few moments of being in Texas rolled on and Katie didnt want to leave she new she had to. Her stay had been long enough and now it was time to go home. Giving her last goodbyes to everyone Katie loads her stuff into her car and makes her long drive home.

Grabbing her bag, and a bottle of water from the fridge Bree grumbles under her breath. Last night she hadnt been the least bit tired and only wanted to look at the stars no matter how she layed in bed the sleep just wouldnt come. Finally though at about 4am she had found the rest she needed only to wake 4 hours last, super late for her first day back at the Hospital.

Locking her door behind her and getting into her car Bree pulls out her cell holding it to hear ear as she waited for an answer on the other end. But being met with an answering masheen was better than nothing.

"Hey Vamp, running late...like normal. Though maybe you wanted to join me for some icrcream less floats at lunch time. Well if you do meet me at the spot, you know the one. Hope to see you there."

Feeling Leo's hand slip into her Ryan opens her eyes and looks down at him. She'd been awake for the last hour but hadnt said a word nore moved just watching Leo as he slept. He had looked so peaceful it would of felt wrong to wake him. Giving a small smile Ryan gives his hand a little squeeze letting him know she was awake.

"Good Morning sleepy head."

Leaning down Ryan gives Leo a soft kiss before pullsing away. She new he probley felt worse today than yesterday.

"Do you need me to get you anything? I am gonna head into the kitchen and see what trouble my brother is getting into."

Sitting at her desk Misty looks over some files. She hadnt been to bed that night as she worked int the office not letting herself sleep. It would be another day or so till she got the tests she needed back on Axel's blood but in the mean time doing more research was never a bad thing.

"Ok, so if we stimulate the nerve to think its moving again."

Misty talked to no on in particular just to herself walking through the steps to see how they sounded.

Getting rid of the past

"Yeah.... okay." Gunner manages a wry grin as he rubs the back of his head before shutting the car door. Walking in front of the headlights, he waves to Bree, though he can't see her past the glare. Turning, he heads inside and up the flight of stairs to his apartment, greeted at the door by Cat.


Leo's eyes are only partway open, but a smile comes to his face. Had he been more alert, he probably would have laughed. "Okay... I won't kick you off... I'm too comfortable... too..." His voice drifts off, and his grip on Ryan's hand loosens just a little. His body was too exhausted to try staying awake any longer.


Ryder smirks as he slings an arm around Thirteen's shoulders to head out of TJY. "Yeah... yeah, everything is fine. We're not a secret anymore - it was the croc Reese was mad about."
Rolling his eyes, he leads the way outside and to the car. "Mom and Pop's it is. I think Carson will have it open for another hour or so."


Trent's eyes snap up to Katie, growing wide as he realized just what she was saying. He didn't argue with her, but just stared as if speechless. Blinking as she walks away, his grip on his coffee mug increases. He didn't want this to happen... he didn't want Katie to tell Jasmine anything. No. He'd made up his mind. He loved Katie, but as the second ticked by, his frustration grew.
Standing suddenly, his chair is knocked over with a clatter. Ignoring help from anybody, he picks up the chair and takes his mug to the kitchen, throwing out the remainder of his coffee.


Jeff returns Katie's hug lovingly, looking up at her with a small smile. "Yeah... yeah I'll see you soon and we'll talk more. Don't worry about that."

Holding her hand for a moment, Jeff nods. "I'm happy you know now too... very happy."
He pulls her down for one last hug before finally letting her go. "Safe trip. Tell Jason I said to keep an eye on you." He winks, knowing that no one had to tell that to Jason.

Their exchange is suddenly broken up as the sound of breaking dishware comes from the kitchen. Everyone looks, and Becky, who is closest, disappears into the kitchen. The next sound is her voice.

"Let me help. No, look, you're bleeding, just let me-"

"I'm fine!" Trent storms out of the kitchen, holding one hand that was bleeding. Without looking at anyone else, he heads for the back door, letting it slam shut behind him after he exits.

Becky looks out of the kitchen, her eyes a little wide before she goes back to clean up the pieces of the broken coffee mug.


Reese heads down the side of the main floor, getting an early start to the day. He was surprised to have seen Gunner's car here that early as well, having thought the man would at least take a couple more days off work. But as he nears the small cubicle, he's met with flying papers. "Gunner, what..." His voice trails off.

Gunner was on the floor in front of his filing cabinet, sifting through files. Every few pages, he'd pull one out, look at it, then toss it over his shoulder as scrap. Some papers had pictures with them. He takes a whole file and tosses it too, into the growing pile in the doorway to his cubicle.

Reese stares at the mess. "What on earth are you doing?!"

Gunner doesn't pause to look up. "Cleaning."

"I... see that. But what... are you cleaning? And why are you here so early?"

"Couldn't sleep. And..." Gunner tosses aside another bulging file, sending papers everywhere. "I'm doing exactly what you've wanted me to do all along."

Confused, Reese bends down to pick up a couple of the papers to see what they were. It only takes him a few moments to realize that they had information that Gunner had followed on his quest to find his parents' murderer. "You're getting rid of... everything?"

"Yep." Another handful of papers fly.

Reese looks to Gunner's computer, where there was a status bar, indicating it was halfway through deleting a load of data files. It surprised him... he knew the search was over, but this seemed a little extreme. "You could... use a garbage can, you know."

"Hey, I just came from a mental hospital, remember?" Gunner still hasn't looked up at him, continuing to search through files and pulling out every single shred of evidence he had followed the last handful of years. "Be glad I'm not running up and down the hall, screaming like a madman."

Reese cocks his head, a little concerned with the strange behavior. "Gunner, are you alright?"

"Fine, Reese... just fine. I did my time. Now if you'll excuse me, I'm trying to clean." Hearing Reese finally walk away, Gunner pauses his work. Dark circles were under his eyes, indicating he had had a sleepless night - and it was true. He had slept no more than ten minutes throughout the night.

Reese wanders back to his office, turning once more to see another handful of papers fly up from the cubicle. He wondered if this was something Hope should know about, or if it was perfectly fine.


The sound of rattling in the kitchen, and the smell of bacon reaches into the living room. Leo stirs a little and finally opens his eyes, trying to get his bearings. Where on earth was he?

Starting to roll over, he stops - his whole body felt like one giant bruise. A groan slips out and he decides not to try moving again. It hurt too much. Only then does he realize that his head isn't resting on a normal pillow. Turning his face, he looks up to see Ryan - he'd been using her lap as a pillow all night, and she hadn't moved. He felt a mixture of guilt and gratefulness.

Still so tired, his bruised eyes fall shut once more, though his hand does find Ryan's again to hold.

I am

Seeing Gunner lean closer to her, and feeling his breath on she skin Bree feels like she froze. Keeping her eyes locked with his Bree could feel her heart starting to beat so loud in her chest, and in her ears she was sure Gunner had to hear it too.

Once Gunner pulls away though leaving her without a kiss Bree turns her head to looking out the front windshield. She wasnt sure if she was disapointed she didnt get the kiss or not.

Though not moving her head Bree look out of the couner of her eye and see's Gunner bump his head. Trying her best not to give a little chuckle to light the mood she tightens her lips before finally she thinks she has enough composure.

"Good Night Gunner. I'll see you again soon. Don't stalk the night without me."

Continuing the kiss Ryan cant feel a small smile form on her face but not letting it go to much that it breaks the kiss. It seemed like time stood still, Ryan liked the sweet way Leo tasted and the warmth that washed over her when she was close to him. To have him back was a good feeling.

Finally breaking from the kiss Ryan just looks down at Leo again. A smile on her lips.

"I guess I should probley let you get some sleep huh? If you dont mind I think this will be my spot for the night just on this little causation, I am to comfortable to move."

Ryan cant help the small laugh as she purses her lips.

"I'd say you can sleep in my best but if my brother woke up and found you this...He might try to kill you. So your stuck on the couch here with me."

Looking up at Ryder Thirteen gives a small smile. She had been worried about Ryder's meeting with Reese today not liking the sounds of the messages on the answering masheen.

"Yeah, I'm ready. Can we stop at Mom and Pop's for something to eat?"

Following Ryder outside Thirteen is quiet for a moment before getting into the car with Ryder.

"So...everything went ok with Reese? I didnt hear any shouting."

Day to Afternoon to Night to Day once again to follow the same pattern, the same loop, time would never change.

Entering the dinning hal Katie does a quick scan only getting through half the faces till she found the one she wanted. Going over to Trent and slidding in next to him Katie is quiet for a moment before finally talking.

"I'm going to help her find you Uncle Trent."

Kaite looks up into her uncles eyes, she loved him, and she new it killed him inside to keep himself from his daughter no matter how good he though it was.

"I made a promise I wouldnt tell her it was you out right, but I can still lead her here. Its not right she doesn't know."

Glancing over at her other father Katie gives a smile. She new it was hard, even if her situation was a little differnt it still was hard, and the feelings she had would only be half of the ones Thirteen did.

"I dont know when it will be. Today, tomorrow, a year from now. I just wanted you prepare you. I love you Uncle Trent."

Giving her Uncle a hug goodbye Katie new she would see him again soon. Standing again and making her way over to her dad Katie smiles at Jeff. She felt like she was going to miss him the most.

"I just wanted to say goodbye before I left. See you again closer to christmas?"

Reaching down to give her dad a hug Katie just holds him for long moment.

"And we will talk on the phone alot. Thank you Dad, I am happy I know now."

Night/Morning

"Uh..." Gunner gets his bearings, and points to the right. "Turn here, then head up to Maple street. I'm at the Olive Apartment complex."

It doesn't take very long at all until they made it into the parking lot in front of Gunner's building. He looks up to the second floor at the dark window. He was so glad to be rid of Northside... so very glad. But there was something in him that wondered if he'd make it through the night alone.

Unbuckling his seatbelt, he looks over to Bree. "Thanks for the ride.... and... for the nice evening." Locking eyes with her, it felt like forever. What was on his mind? What was the look in his gaze that held him to her own? "...and... for everything else lately too."

His voice was quite and grateful as he leaned towards her just a little, his eyes still locked with hers. He then searched her face and seemed once again to pause, time just ticking by. He could feel color coming to his cheeks, and he really wasn't sure why. He had a whole new realm of feelings here that he wasn't sure yet how to sort out. Being this close to Bree... so close to her lips... But he had no idea what he was doing.

Straightening quickly, he opens the car door and steps out into the cool air. He moved too quickly though, hitting his head on the door on his way out.

He withholds a groan. "Goodnight, Bree."


Leo is close to sleep, being put at ease by Ryan. But before he can drift off, he feels her lips on his once more. Surprised for the second time, his eyes open, but he doesn't resist. Ryan's kiss was so warm... so sweet. He returns it gradually, building with passion as he moves a hand up to cradle her head. Just as glad that they were alone, he doesn't care how long they're there. He's just finally feeling good to have Ryan back.

Breaking for a moment, he whispers to her. "I think I do know how much you've missed me."

He brings her head closer again, this time the kiss instigated by him, lasting no shorter than the first.


Ryder exits Reese's office, a bit bewildered, but not yet knowing how to process everything. He wasn't upset - just on edge.

Finding Thirteen, he looks over he shoulder at her doodles. "Well, little artist, you ready to get back home?"


The night at the ranch slowly moves on, summoning the morning once again. Things were different as the early sun shone down though.

The dining hall is noisy with laughter and chatter. The only ones not there are Rosetta, Mick and BJ. No one else even knew Mick was back yet, but the little family was having their own breakfast this morning to have some quality time before Mick was too involved with the search.

Jeff sits in his usual spot near the window, seeming extra tired this morning, but wanting to be there since he knew Katie was probably going to leave today. Trent was nearby, alone, like most morning, absorbed in his cup of coffee, rather than the conversations around him. Jade had gotten up early to help with chores, and now had claimed a spot next to Dan for the morning meal.

Even though it seemed everyone was there, the door opens slowly, going unnoticed by most. Scott scans the room a little hesitantly. It had been hard, traveling alone to get here, and now with a group of people, some anxieties were returning.

Toons

Standing up Bree takes in a deep breath filling her lungs with oxygen before looking over at Gunner and being able to giggle a little that lets all the air out. Giving a playful roll of her eyes she looks back to JT and nods.

"Yeah I can bring Gunner home. I dont go that way anyways so it works out."

Raising an eyebrow to her Uncle Bree knows she said it backwards and it made no sense but she didnt much care. She was a little tired but far from ready to sleep. Givng JT a kiss and saying her goodbye to him she leaves with Gunner. Getting into the car and pulling out of the driveway she turns to look at Gunner for a moment.

"Ok, direct me to your house oh great navigator."

Leaning back totally comfortable except for the throbbing in her wrist Ryan felt pertty good for being a woman who just got out of the hospital. Turning her head again to look down at Leo he looked at peace and totally comfortable where he was right now. Feeling his tightened grip on her hand A smile forms on Ryan's face, the words that Leo spoke matched and Ryan could feel her heart tump in her chest.

"I'd like that very much so Leo. You have no idea how much I've missed you."

Bringing her hand to the side of his face Ryan just maps his cheeks bones and his jawbone her touch light. This time she had it right, this time it was by her own free will that Leo and herself would make it through.

Leaning down though it was uncomfortable Ryan brings her lips to Leo again. Not being alone she let the kiss linger only pulling away for a moment to switch her head the other way again, than continue the kiss, the seal, the answer to Leo's question.

Giving a smile to Jade and a small squeeze to her arm Dan nods. They had almost kissed back there, and not saying he didnt want to but it was probley best he didnt, not right now anyways.

"Bright and early if your going to help me with the horses again."

Making sure Jade got inside safly Dan makes his way back to his own bunk. Stopping before he got inside he took a deep breath of air and looks up at the stars for a long moment. Finally entering the building and getting at least a few hours of sleep.

Sitting outside Reese office at the small table to the right of Susanne's desk Thirteen hums a little toon as she doodles one the paper. Today she was going to try and stay home today by herself but an episode of people screaming outside the house in the street had changed her mind on that one.

So now content with her hums from just toons her had heard on the TV or in the car Thirteen waits and continues to doodle. Flowers, suns, but what look like to be her best work on the paper were the drawings of eyes.

Your preference

Leo just lets his head sink into Ryan's lap, his eyes falling shut again as she raked her fingers through his hair. She knew how to calm his nerves and make him feel relaxed. He tightens his grip a little on her hand, showing he liked being here.

"So what's this mean, Ry?"

He doesn't try to open his eyes again, and just speaks, his voice quite and a bit hoarse. "Are we gonna try again?"


Gunner flinches when he's elbowed, but a grin spreads on his face and he taps Bree with his foot again. He wasn't used to teasing like this, or being teased back... it was kinda fun.

Not much changes through the rest of the movie. Gunner manages to stay awake and every once in a while, he'd reach down to tug at Bree's hair, or give her another nudge just to get a reaction, at which point, laughter always followed.

As the credits roll, JT yawns and stands to stretch, glancing at the clock. "Well... this has been fun."

Gunner knows that this household is ready to call it a night, and he knows he should probably mak ea move to leave. Swinging a leg over Bree's head, he stands up as well, going to slip his tennis shoes back on. "I can walk home," he mentions. "It won't take me too long."

"You're not walking." JT rolls his eyes, not even letting Gunner argue. He glaces to his niece. "I can take him or you can - your preference."


Jade follows Dan's directions, helping round up the rogue horses and get them into the barn. Sliding the last stall shut, she latches it and turns to give a little laugh at Dan. "Well, that was exciting." She rolls her eyes, aiming for the barn door.

Getting there, she stops and scans the area, seeing the lights on in the main house. She did not know that her father had returned. Sighing, she knows she should probably go to bed and get some sleep.

Looking to Dan again, her expression fades just a little, replaced by something softer. "I guess... this is goodnight. See you tomorrow?"


Reese looks up from his paperwork, startled by the figure in the doorway. "Ryder! What are you doing here?"

"Well, you've been trying to get a hold of me and-"

"You could say that again!" Reese sets aside his work for now. "How many messages have I left on your answering machine? I'd think you were dead if you hadn't left messages for me with Susanne, which, by the way, I didn't appreciate when I was available to speak at any time. What do you think you're doing?!"

Ryder cringes a little and steps further into the office, though hesitantly. "Avoiding you?'

"Yes, it appears that way. Why, pray tell, have you been avoiding me and shirking your duties?"

"Well how would you feel with those angry messages on your answering machine? I figured I'd be getting sacked, so I wanted to let things cool for a while. Apparently, it didn't work."

Reese's eyes narrow. If he hadn't been so busy the last few days, he would have been all over Ryder. "You know why I called in the first place?"

"Um... the thing on tv?"

"Uh-huh. Do you have any idea how stupid-"

"I'm sorry, okay?!" Ryder throws up his hands. "I didn't know I'd be on tv and, and I know you're upset about the whole thing and me and Thirteen, I just-"

"You and Thirteen?"

Ryder stops and blinks. "This.... isn't about her and me?"

Reese rolls his eyes. "What, that you're dating in secret? That's old news, Ryder. I knew that the minute you moved in over there."

Ryder's eyes are wide. "You mean you... but... you're the reason I kept it a secret! Why didn't you say something?"

"What can I say? It was fun watching you squirm instead of admitting you'd fallen for our rescued damsel." Reese smirks a little. He'd wondered how long it would take Ryder to admit that he and Thirteen had something between them. "No, it's not about that - you know I don't like agents' involvement with clients like that, but I'm not a tyrant. I've loved before too, ya know." He shakes his head. "No, this is about your stupid crocodile stunt. It's bad enough my men are in danger in the field, then you go and tempt fate by teasing a crocodile with your life! And on tv to boot! The press did a great job making fun of the Elite, or didn't you notice?"

Ryder sighs and sets his hands on his hips. "I missed it, okay? I missed what I used to do. You got me stuck part-time in a cubicle, just because you don't want to let me go, but there's no real place for me here. You know it, and I know it. I'm just extra baggage."

Reese leans back in his chair thoughtfully. "Is that how you feel? I'll shift job positions if you need it - I thought you liked being able to concentrate on getting Thirteen on her feet."

"Well yeah but... I don't know... I just feel like I don't belong here anymore. I got a job offer from the zoo and... and... it's tempting."

"From the Elite to the zoo?"

"At least I can stay active."

Reese purses his lips. "Tell you what. Let this lie another night. Come in and talk to me tomorrow. I have an idea. I think you can have the best of both worlds if you and someone else are willing?"

"Who?"

"I'll tell you tomorrow."

play

Moving twords where the sound came from Dan lets his eyes get use to the dark making sure nether of them tripped on anything hurting themselves.

"There were three of them. It looks like one is over by the far barn. Why dont you go grab that one while I move this stuff out of the way for tonight so no one gets hurt. Put the horse into the barn and than we can see about the other two. They stick together a lot so find one and we have the other."

Moving to where the fence had broke Dan works quickly as he moved everything out of the way for tonight making a mental note he needed to fix it in the morning. Joining up with Jade once again to grab the other two horses.

"Alright lets get these horses back inside."

Smiling down softly at Leo Ryan gazed into his eyes not saying anything for a long moment. So many thoughts where going through her mind that she was trying to process. As Leo takes her hand Ryan can feel her heart pick up its beat.

"You had every right not to Leo. I did a horrible thing to you, for that I AM sorry."

Looking at Leo laying there all battered and bused made Ryan feel even worse. But it made it a good time to talk. Leaning back a little bit so Leo's head could rest in her lap Ryan leans back her one hand still in Leo's while the other hand ran through his hair gently.

"I am glad your here safe now. I was so worryed about you."

Giving a soft giggle as Gunner lets her go Bree brings one arm down but the other is still resting on his knee. Turning to him her eyes smiled as her moved her finger to her lips.

"Shhh...I am trying to watch this movie."

Feeling Gunner's toe nudge her Bree puts a little more into it making it look like Gunner had giving her a big shove. Bringing her elbow up she nudges Gunner's leg back playfully.

Quite fair

Jade is sure that her heart is going to pound right through her chest as she feels Dan moving in closer. But the moment is suddenly broken, making her jump, and all of a sudden she feels a wave of guilt for being in this position.

Finding out it's the horses, she's sure it's a good thing that it wasn't a ranch hand, but it's also a bad thing. She doesn't hesitate to help though, following Dan's directions and taking a lead rope of her own. Her heart was racing now for a completely different reason. "How many horses were out here?"


Leo forces his eyes to stay open, wincing just a little as another one of his cuts is cleaned. He didn't mind it so much though... not when it was Ryan.

"You don't have to thank me," he mumbles. "I just wish I... would have been strong enough to put that creep in his place."

Falling quiet, Leo stares across the room to the fire for several moments before lifting his gaze. The firelight danced across Ryan's face, illuminating each feature with soft shadows to define the smooth contours.

Reaching up, he stops Ryan's hand from wiping any more, and just holds her hand still. "And I wish I... I would have... swallowed my pride sooner too." His gaze drops once more.


Gunner grins. "Fair? I'd say this was quite fair, seeing as though you started it."

Eventually, he lets Bree go, releasing his hold and letting his legs stay one on each side of her. "But I'm a nice guy," he concludes. "But you never know... next time I might not let you off so easy."

JT eyes them for a moment, then goes back to watching tv, seeming to have heard a joke no one else had.

Now fully awake, Gunner moves one of his toes to nudge Bree teasingly, not letting the little row die.

window

Letting out a laugh Bree wiggles and squirms trying to get out of Gunners grasps. Putting her arms through Gunners legs Bree continues to struggle her arms now trapped too.

Finally giving up Bree just lets her body relax and leans her arms over Gunner's legs. Leaning her head back all the way so it was in Gunner's lap Bree gives a chuckle.

"Now I dont see how this is fare you know. I like tickling your feet better."

Feeling Jade move closer to him till she was inches from his face Dan's heart seemed to skip a beat. A feeling that had layed at bay for 4 years, and the warmth her felt was growing even bigger with each moment he spend with Jade.

"I..know."

Leaning in to press his lips to Jades moments before they touched as if by a force that intervened a sicking snap sounds close for comfort that gets Dan's attachen. Turning his head quickly form where the sound came from he squints in the dark.

"What on earth..."

Shortly follow were the sound of horses and the pounding of feel. Realizing what the noise was Dan was in his feet in a heart beat.

"Oh no, the horses just broke the fence and got out. I have to get them back in, come on I could use your help."

Not wasting a moment Dan moves around to the front of the barn and through the door grabbing a few ropes and than coming back out handing some to Jade so she could help round them up with him.

Keeping Leo's hand in her own Ryan's heart beat a mile a minute. Just the face her kept his hand in her own gave Ryan hope that there could be a them in the near to come.

Time slolwy passed and a hour went by. Ryan didnt leave Leo alone for more than a moment at time still worryed about him. Standing by the window Ryan looks out scanning the street and just watching the people pass for a long moment. Finally backing away Ryan goes over to Leo and sits down on the edge of the couch. Resting a hand on Leo's shoulder Ryan gives a small smile.

"Thank you Leo, for defending my honor. That means alot to me."

Picking up a cloth from the table this one a little softer from the last Ryan cleans some dirt and a little left over blood from his face. A fire started in the fire place the keep the living room warm as it started to get darker out.

Dangerous

Gunner was so warm and comfortable... much more relaxed than he'd been in weeks. Maybe he'd just close his eyes... for just... a moment...

He'd just drifted off when he suddenly felt an odd sensation to the bottom of his feet. Jerking awake, he moves his legs, only to find that Bree had a hold of him and was tickling him.

"Ahh! You... Bree!"

JT nonchalantly looks over from the chair, as if he were unamused, except for the little smile at the corner of his mouth. He just continues watching the movie.

Gunner shakes his legs until he can get loose. Shoving Bree back off onto the floor, his legs go over her shoulders and wrap around her neck. Hooking his ankles together, he holds her there, not letting her go. Leaning back, he just relaxes his upper body, putting his hands back behind his head, while letting his legs hold Bree prisoner.


A shiver runs down Jade's spine as she continues to look into Dan's eyes, then feels his hand on her face. It was rough but warm, feeling of hard work under honesty.

Jade swallows hard, leaning in a little closer. Closing her eyes, she could feel Dan's breath on her face and another tingle spreads through her. Why her hands trembled slightly, she didn't know. "You realize... this is... dangerous," she whispers.


Leo isn't sure if he's going to get reprimanded further or not, so when Ryan moves closer and he feels her lips on his, it gives him a start. He opens his eyes a little in surprise, though is unable to pull away. But even though his pride warned him not to let her kiss him like this, something else took over... something he just couldn't seem to control. He'd missed her... and even though he'd been stubborn, he'd wanted her back since the beginning of their whole breakup.

His hand that's holding the ice pack slips down and out of the way as he slowly returns Ryan's kiss. It hurt his lip just a bit, but he really didn't care. His other hand, though with just as sore battered knuckles, slips up behind Ryan's head and through her hair.

Miles' eyebrows raise just about as far as they can go and he looks to Eli, blinking. Eli's mouth is hanging open just a bit as he cocks his head, unable to help but stare. He felt like he should probably back away but...

Miles clears his throat.

As Ryan draws back, Leo looks up into her eyes the best he can without being able to open them all the way. They were full of want... full of question. Why had Ryan just kissed him? Was it really true that she really did care? Did this mean there was still hope for the future?

"I... think our friend is going to make it," Miles comments dryly.

Eli steps closer again, with an eyebrow quirked. "I don't know... he looks a little feverish to me."

Leo would have rolled his eyes, had it not hurt to do so. Instead, he just shuts them and leans his head back. But hidden was his hand that had slid down to rest in Ryan's palm.

Eli returns the cold pack to Leo's eye, a little harder than the last time. "I think you need a rest after that."

Leo smirks. He didn't even know what to say or how to act now. "I think I need my bed," he mumbles.

"I think you should spend the night here," Eli suggests.

"Naw." Leo shakes his head. "Just get me home, alright?"

"Look, Bub." Eli looks at him sternly. "You had a death wish to begin with, you refused the hospital, now you're going to take an order whether you like it or not. Until I'm convinced you're alright, you're staying..."

An hour later, Miles was gone, Leo had made it to the living room couch to lie down, and Eli was scrounging for an extra pillow and blanket.

Leo winces as he curls up on his side, not waiting for the pillow. He'd managed to drink a little water, but otherwise, he'd refused much else. Seeing Ryan out of the corner of his eye, he wonders again about earlier. Would she say any more? Was that it? Did it mean more?

Attack

Reaching up and cradling Jade's face in his hand for a moment his eyes searched hers. The warmth inside him grew just a little more.

Why did he feel like he had no controlle. He was walking dangerous ground he new he shouldn't. But it was like his body and mind were no longer connected.

Giving a small smile Dan whispered.

"You don't need to thank me when its the truth."

Running his finger gently over Jade's face he new his hands were rough but her skin seemed to sooth the acked from the days work that throbbed in them.

Staying pretty quiet once they are back at her place Ryan move back and forth with her brothers direction ignoring the throbbing in her wrist. She felt worryed, and horrible inside seeing Leo like this.

Cleaning his face gentily as she could Ryan catchs Leo's eye many times just looking deep into them each. She'd been so worryed all day and now here he was and she still was worrying.

Hearing why Leo went and started something with Roth makes her stop for a moment just staring at Leo. He'd dont it for her, Leo had risked going aganst Roth because of what he had done to her.

"That was a stupid thing Leo you have ever done."

Nothing being able to the the feeling she had inside or even being able to describe it Ryan leans in taking Leo and pressing her lips to his. Trying to be gentil but being ferm at the same time. All her emotions put into the kiss pulling away for a moment only to turn her head and go back for another kiss. Letting it linger for a long moment till finally she pulled away.

"Thank you."

Giving a nod to her uncle Bree snatches one of the pillows and places it behind her back to try and get comfortable.

"Yep, nothing like ending the week with something sappy."

Waiting for JT to pick the movie and than saying grace Bree was ready to dig in. Cutting the crustless pizza and scooping it into her plate she uses her fork to eat it enjoying every moment.

Finally about about an hour Bree puts her plat down on the table. She had eaten way to much but today it tasted way to good. Leaning her head back she bumps into Gunner's leg and brings her head back up again turning to look at him.

Behind her eyes a grin formed as she plotted something to wake him. Turning the other way slowly Bree reachs behind her and grabs Gunner's feel holding them tight before bringing her other hand around and running her fingers along the bottom of his foot.

Rosetta listened to Mick closely. After there talk and understanding on a few things she was feeling better and now that the conversation had gone back to Dylan and Rosetta wanted to know what was going on and if she could help.

"Ohhh Scott's here yes yes thats fine. I never wanted to come across like I didnt want you to help I just new there had to be some way for you to be here and do so."

Continuing to listen and giving nods and smiles Rosetta new things would work out and Dylan would be ok.

"Katie is going back tomorrow, I am sure Reese with put her on this case too. That alone gives me comfort that Dylan will be ok. God will keep his hands wrapped around Dylan as well. Always remember that. He has his hands around you as well."

Compromise

Jade's mind stops as Dan whispers. Lifting her head a little, she turns her face to his, only inches away. His eyes were so soft... so full. She felt like she could just fall right into them and never look back.

"That was... a nice thing to say." A grateful smile barely creases her mouth. "Thank you."


Eli takes Leo's other side, and together with his sister, get him to his feet. Leo holds in a groan of pain, and his knees buckle at first, but after a couple steps, he's able to help support his own weight on the way back to the car. Miles takes the backseat again, helping Leo partially lay down for the ride to Ryan's. Eli wastes no time in getting out of there and back into town.

Once they arrive at Ryan's, Eli and Miles follow to the front door, with Leo between them. Getting him inside, Eli directs Ryan to get a kitchen chair and put it by the sink. Easing Leo down into the chair, he goes for a towel, wetting it with cool water. "Your face looks like hamburger," he muses.

Leo keeps his bruised eyes closed, managing a wry grin. "I'll take that... as... as a compliment."

Miles stands back skeptically. "You sure we don't need to take him to the hospital?"

Eli doesn't answer right away, but hands the towel to Ryan. "Start cleaning the dirt from around his cuts and get all that blood off of him. I'll go get some bandages and some bedodine ." He's back in less than a minute, looking Leo over while Ryan cleans. "Any broken bones?"

Leo winces as a cut on his face meets the abrasive towel. "Mm-mm... I don't think so."

Eli pulls up Leo's shirt and feels around his ribs.

Leo cries out and jumps. "Would you-"

"I don't think your ribs are broken," Eli surmises. "But you've got some pretty deep bruising there."

"I feel like I got run over by a truck," Leo mumbles.

"A truck?" Miles cocks his head. "Or something meaner?"

Leo clamps his mouth shut, holding his breath as Eli and Ryan's pressure to his cuts and bruises hurt like mad.

Eli forces him to open one of his eyes, making sure it was just bruising and nothing worse. "You confronted Roth, didn't you?"

Leo swallows hard. He didn't look at Ryan. "Nobody else was."

Miles sighs. "That was real smart, Leo... real smart."

"Well I-" Leo stops, having opened his mouth too wide, making his whole face hurt, and making his lip bleed again. He pauses, just letting the other two continue to clean him up. "He deserved it... after.... what he did."

Eli looks across at Ryan, the look on his face saying, He still cares. "Here." He hands her a softer cloth and some bedodine. "Make sure you get all his cuts, and put some of this on his knuckles too." Letting her take over with that, he wraps some ice cubes in a towel and places them over Leo's worse eye. "Can you hold that here, Leo?"

Leo reaches up with a sore hand to hold the icepack in place, feeling a bit useless, but forgetting about his pride for now. He was too tired to fight the help.


Gunner gives Bree a bit of a sheepish grin. He felt stupid for feeling awkward at all. This was Bree... his friend.

Wandering forward, he accepts the middle position on the couch, easing down but not spreading out, for fear of getting in either Bree's way or JT's.

"Movie!" JT votes. He looks to Gunner. "Apparently Bree is neutral, but everyone in this house gets a say, so what say you?"

Gunner's eyebrows rise. "Um... movie is good. As long as it isn't a sappy romance."

JT grins. "Naw, that's reserved for Sunday nights. Right, Bree?" He wasn't ashamed to admit he could enjoy a chick flick with his niece, and any time she wound up at his place on a Sunday night, that was the kind of movie they watched. Sometimes he ended up falling asleep, but he liked letting her enjoy whatever movie she wanted, even if it was a sappy one.

Gunner chuckles. "You two get along well, don't you?"

JT moves to the shelf beside the tv to scan the movies. Looking over his shoulder at Bree, another smile surfaces. "Yeah, we do." Glancing back to the movies, he finally settles on a good drama/action flick. Once it's going, he flops down on the couch by Gunner, says a quick prayer for the meal, and they can dig in.

By the time the movie is halfway over, JT has moved to his easy chair, while Gunner has curled up in the corner of the couch behind Bree, a little drowsy, but not enough to fall asleep.


Mick closes his eyes and lets Rosetta close, leaning his head down on hers. Slipping an arm around her, he kisses her head and just sighs. He knew they would be okay... this was just another bump along the way... but it never made it easier.

Withdrawing a little, his gaze is down, but he nods. "I know you're with me... and... and I need that." Right now, he had a goal, and that goal was to help find Dylan. But without that, he would have already crashed a second time. "I won't ever hurt you or BJ. I know I snapped at you both, and I'm so sorry about that... I don't even remember what all I said, but it probably wasn't nice. I just..."

Unexpected tears spring into his eyes, and he has to stop and clear his throat to compose himself. He knew he had a problem, and it was hard to admit, especially after he'd been doing so well for so long. He'd fallen off the wagon and he knew it. "I just want to get through this one thing at a time. Right now, it's Dylan and I'll deal with the other later. I got mad at you and thought I knew what I was doing, but I was upset enough that I wasn't even thinking straight."

Sitting a little straighter, the shift in conversation helps him maintain control as he keeps Rosetta's hands in his. "When I got to the airport, I couldn't get on the plane... not knowing you were back here as upset as you were. Wrong or right, it didn't matter to me... I just couldn't leave you like that. So... I started making phone calls. I canceled my Elite flight and I called Reese. We talked and made a bunch of plans, and tomorrow, he's getting his team together to start where Dylan was last seen. I'm still going to be involved though, and I hope you're okay with that. I... didn't come home alone."

He pauses, pursing his lips. "Scott flew down. He's going to set up a little work station here so I can see and hear what's going on. So I'll be here but... with them at the same time. That way I can still be here for you and BJ but... I can help with Dylan too." He searches her eyes with hope. "Will that work?"

By some chanse

Feeling Jade lean on him and not expecting it Dan gives a small jump but recovers quickly. It felt strange to have someone leaning on him like this again but there was a warm softness that made him slip his arm around Jade and letting his hang over her shoulder.

"Nah, I'm sure he does. It just seems like he has a lot on his might right now. Maybe when things calm down you can ask him again if you can stay."

Leaning his head down for a moment Dan gives the soft sent of Jade's shampoo and feels her soft hair on the side of his face. A sudden and unexpected lump forming in his throat. Managing to swallow it Dan lifts his head closing his eyes for a moment letting the strange feeling he has pass. Than opening his eyes again he looks to the stars his voice coming out a soft whisper.

"And if by some bogus chanse he doesn't want you around than he's not as smart as I though he was."

Ryan rolls her eyes but was thankful Leo's sense of humor was still in tact. If anything with a little help that alone told her he would be ok. Looking at her brother Ryan nods not even hesitating.

"Yeah, he can come to my place thats fine. Come on lets get him up and some place warm."

Moving to Leo's one side Ryan gentily slings his one arm over her shoulder while she waits for someone to take the other side.

"Come on Leo lets get you some place warm and cleaned up."

Seeing Gunner come around the corner and into the livingroom Bree's eyes twinkle. She still felt strange about what she said earlier but if she didnt bring it up or act different things would be the same right?

"Hey Hey Vamp. We got normal pizza here..."

Bree rolls her eyes and scoffs.

"..Normal. And we have crustless on this side."

Bree moved her eyesbrows up and down making it clear she liked that side the best.

"So we got the food, we got the pizza now we need a game or a movie or something."

Looking up at Gunner Bree pats the coution on the coutch next to her signaling she would be sitting on the floor so if he wanted to take the place he could right between her and JT.

"You can sit here. I promise I wont bite, hard."

Listing to Mick's words Rosetta chocks on her own tears. Her mind listens and process everything he said carefuly to catch what he said and over come her own silly emotions. But as Mick continued to talk the tears fell from Rosetta's eyes as she couldn't controller them any longer.

Taking her hand from Mick's Rosetta reachs out and pulls him to her wrapping her arms around him. Burrying her face into his shoulder she is quiet for a moment as the tears continue to fall.

"I was so silly to have those feelings, and I am sorry I didn't tell you sooner Mick."

Finally letting go of him Rosetta looks Mick in the eye once again. She had, had all these fears and though they were still there they seemed to dull with Mick's words. He told her things, he never had before, and she new how he felt about her, the past and the present.

"I never new you felt all those things Mick, and I never new thats how you felt about me. I'm sorry if you didnt understand me before, and I'm sorry if I seemed like I didnt want you to care about Dylan because thats not what I was saying at all. I care about Dylan like he was my own son and I want to be a step mom to him, and Jade."

Looking down at Mick's hands for a moment Rosetta ran her thumb over his calluses and the rough area's on his hand. To her, they were soft, and they were the hands that protected her and there little family here.

"No matter how many times you slip, as long as you dont try to hurt us I will always be there for you. You dont have to go through it alone, no matter what I am here."