Shock

Wondering around and waiting Faith didn't feel awkward looking at everything and getting her bearings but she couldn't help feel maybe she got her time or places wrong on meeting Sparky. Seeing Jim, and getting a bit of direction from him was nice, and helped Faith just a little in finding her way around.

Once inside and finding Annie Faith sits next to her as a conversation about her Dr. apts are talked about and working out car for Faith to use so she could come and go when she pleased having her own freedom here.

Looking up at Jim as he makes his way over Angel's smile fades a little by the look on Jim's face.

"Jim...whats wrong?"

Hearing Sparky was sick Angel is up from the table with minutes. It could be a simple cold but it was always better to be safe than sorry.

Over hearing Jim and Angel Faith can't help but be a little worryed about her friend. Wondering if she could do anything herself she stands and heads out the door and to the bunk house. It would be a little bit before Angel got there seeing as she had to go to her office first. Faith could go in check on Sparky and than leave not being in anyone way.

Crossing the grass and getting to Sparky's bunk Faith knocks a little before cracking open the door.

"Sparky...its me Faith."

Her words come out soft knowing his head might be hurting. Entering farther in Faith goes over to the bed and sits down on the edge for a moment feeling his for head.

"Hey, sorry to bother you I was just worried. I didn't know if there was anything I could do. Angel is on her way."

Feeling he had a fever Faith stands just wanting bring a little comfort to Sparky while he waited for Angel. Pulling the blankets to up under his chin, Faith disapears into the bathroom. A few moments later she comes back out with a wet washcloth.

"Here, this will help lay on your back for me."

Waiting for Sparky to roll on his back Faith sits on the bed again and leans over him a little placing the cool on his for head.

"There, that should help you so you dont feel to warm. Can I do anything else Spark?"

Not seeing Jade in the barn that morning had been add seeing as she hadnt missed a morning of helping him since she came to the ranch. Maybe just today she was busy and he would see her at breakfest. But now scanning the dinning hall and still not seeing her Dan was a bit worryed.

Exiting and heading down the steps Dan makes his way to Jade's bunk and gives a light tap on the door. Not getting an answer Dan checks the door and seeing it open he cracks it just a little looking into the room.

"Jade, Jade its just me. I was worried about you."

Seeing the body laying in the bed but getting no answer Dan's worry increases even more. Entering all the way he slowly makes his way to the bed. Seeing Jade was breathing was a re leaf but seeing the sweat and feeling her forehead she was sick and burning up.

Heading into the tiny bathroom Dan wets a washcloth and brings it back out. Wrapping the coolness around the back of Jade's neck was easy since she was sleeping on her stomach. Taking the covers and bringing them up her Dan sits on the edge of the bed.

"Need to keep these on you to break your fever ok. "

Just sitting on the bed Dan rubs Jade's back not sure if she was awake or not but trying to bring her the comfort he can.

Giving a nod and a smile to her brother Ryan throws her arms around him.

"Ok I owe you, and we are into all that manly stuff just...something different I guess."

Shaking her head and just slapping her brother's arm for the fun of it Ryan turns to head into the hallway with the phone.

"I'll call Leo and let him know we are going."

Pulling into the hospital Bree's eyes open a little. Everything was blurry but there was no way she could mistake that sign. Her heart beat started to race but she couldn't move from the straight jacket she was in.

"Please...let me go. I don't belong here...Don't do this."

The Dr's open the van door alone with the two others close. Reaching in to get Bree out they do there best to try and keep her calm.

"Shhh....Bree just calm down. You know from last time its better to do as we say."

Entering the hospetil Bree's eyes move wildly around the room. The smells, the sounds...it was what Bree had feared the most coming true again.

Another Dr was up to them and just studys Bree for a long moment. There was no mistaking who this mad was with his twisted smile.

"So you have come back Bree."

His accent like nails on a chalk bored to her. He was the worst of men, and enjoyed every moment of it.

Put her in her old room from now. In a few hours we will start where we left off with her shock treatment.

Bree couldnt help the screams that came from her again as she is lead down the hall. All over again it was happening and no one was there. her voice echoed through the hospetial as she could hear other screams from down the hall. This was an all to real nightmare.

Run

Startled by Faith's touch to his arm, Sparky hadn't even heard her come up behind him. He jumps a little, stopping, then picking up his slow pace again, a gentle smile creasing his lips. "Yeah, you can come help in the barn. Can't say no to that."

A low chuckle comes out and Sparky stops walking near his bunkhouse. "If you show up about seven, seven-thirty in the barn, we can put you to work before breakfast."

He puts a foot on the steps, ready to ascend the porch when he pauses, turning to look at Faith again. "Eat light. Full stomach in the saddle isn't very comfortable." Tossing her a wink, he nods. He didn't mean to be so brief, but exhaustion was suddenly upon him, as was a bit of a headache.

"Goodnight, Faith." His eyes meet hers for a final moment, the moonlight shimmering between them before he blinks and turns to his bunk.


The night is long, but eventually the sun has to rise again. The ranch begins to stir as the light of dawn touches the tips of the trees. Ranch hands start to wake and rise, heading towards the barns for chores. In the dining hall, a few people mingle and dishes rattle as breakfast is prepared.

Six-thirty... Seven... Seven-thirty... Eight. The breakfast bell rings. It wasn't too abnormal that Sparky hadn't been heavily involved in the chores. Sometimes he held back. But when he didn't even show up for breakfast, some of the men began to wonder. Jim wanders down the line of stalls, catching sight of Faith, and he realizes that she's been looking around and waiting.

Thinking, he finally heads to the dining hall, making sure Faith came with and that she felt welcome to join everyone. He casually mentions Sparky and that he's sure he's around here somewhere, knowing that she'd been waiting for him. Once inside the dining hall, he scans the faces and realizes that Sparky is nowhere to be found. Reconsidering his options, he leaves Faith in Annie's capable hands, then heads back outside to the bunkhouses.

Ten minutes later, Jim returns. Breakfast has just started, but he doesn't find a seat at a table. Instead, he bypasses his normal places, going straight to Angel who was sitting near the other woman. He leans down to her and speaks low. "I just found Sparky in his bunk - he's got a high fever and is complaining of being sore. Looks like flu to me, but I think you better check him out to be sure. He didn't want me getting you, the stubborn mule, but I think he's been sick all night and he's gonna need a bit of help whether he likes it or not."


"Ow!" Eli recoils away from Ryan, though still laughs. "Aw, not the eyes... don't give me that look, aww...." He cringes, squinting one eye shut as he looks at his sister. "A musical? I thought Leo was into muscle cars and rock, not.... not sissy stage performances."

Unable to help but give in to Ryan's pleading though, he finally sighs. "Alright... if it will make you happy, or him or whatever, I'll go. But you owe me."


Gunner's body hits the ground hard as he tumbles into the alley, banging into some garbage cans. He didn't feel it though, still unconscious from the blow to the head.

Bryant makes sure he's where no one will find him right away before signaling the driver to keep going. "Alright, he's out of our hair. If he complains to anyone, it's obvious this girl went crazy. The cop tried to stop us with force and we simply defended ourselves. End of story."

He looks to Roger with a sneer. "Not a bad day's work for ten grand. We get this girl dropped off and I'm out of here."


Its at least a half an hour before Gunner's eyes flick open again. He tenses and sits up too quickly, making his world spin as he bumps into spilled garbage. Realizing he was outside, he has no idea where he is. A cloud cover prevented him from guessing how long he'd been there or what direction he was going. He didn't recognize the alley he was in, and he did not know if he was alone or not.

Panic sends his heart racing. "Bree!" he shouts. His words echo against cold brick walls. "Bree!" No answer. Pulling himself to his feet, he staggers before finally getting his balance back. Heading to the street, he looks both ways, squinting at a street sign. Hawthorn. It ran north and south. He must be at the south end of town. Reaching for his pocket, he finds his phone gone. He had no money in his wallet either. But somehow he had to get a hold of someone who could help. Bree had been taken, but there was a dirty cop involved, warning Gunner not to dial the police just yet. Tucking his badge under his hoodie, he sprints into a run, heading down the sidewalk. The nearest place would be the hospital. And JT was working days again.

Yacht

As the conversation around them becomes lite Annie was righ, Faith felt like she fit right in and this was her family. The air was nice, and it was comfortable. All the fears she had before were gone, and felt like she had know these people for years, not just hours.

Seeing movement by the window Faith just looks for a moment thinking she saw Sparky. Looking back around the room quickly and not seeing Sparky it was confirmation she had seen him. Still not sure how everything worked here and if she would see him again before bed or not she wanted to ask about riding again.

Excusing herself and standing Faith makes her way out of the dinning hall. Seeing Sparky walking slowly across the grass Faith steps off the porch and walks quickly to catch up with Sparky. Gently brushing his arm with her hand to let him know she was there Faith gave a smile slowing her pace down now she was caught up with him.

"Hey, you left before I could talk to you again, and well I am still not sure everyones schedule here so I wanted to catch up with you before you went to bed."

Letting her hand slide down from his arm Faith puts them in her pockets still walking along side Sparky. Now that it was even a little later the night was crisp, and the small breeze felt good.

"I was just wondering what time you wake in the morning and if I could help out in the barn again."

Looking at her brother and raising her eyebrow Ryan did her best to contain her own giggles but not at the tickets but her brothers reaction. She new he probley would react like this but in a way was happy poor Leo wasn't around.

Giving a smirk and moving quickly Ryan gives her brother a few backward hand slaps to Eli's arm as she lets out her own laughs.

"Eli, come on...its for Leo and he REALLY wanted us to go. He always comes to see my races, the least we can do is go with him. Who knows maybe the big hard McKade's have a soft spot. So will you come? PLEASEEEEEEEE???"

Ryan cocks her head to the side and gives her brother big puppy dog eyes.

As Gunner's head hits Roger's jaw with a sicking smack he lets out a cry crashing to the van floor, not even being able to recover before another shot of pain ran through him. Giving a painful growl Roger yells.

"Bryant, get him off of me."

As Bryant pulls Gunner Roger unmercifully kicked Gunner at the same time sending him off of him. Groaning and slipping back into the side of the van Roger glairs at Gunner.

"Yeah well, his head is as hard as a rock."

Swelling had already started in his jaw as he rubs it slightly, shooting a look at Bryant again before looking to the driver of the van.

"Yeah, yeah I'll live I had worse. CAN YOU MOVE THIS THING ANY FASTER?"

Roger was being coming frustrated and just wanted to dump Gunner. Knowing they were a good ways out of town by now they might as well just do it. Than they could get Bree to the hospital and go get his own money.

"Stop the van, just dump him here Bryant. He wont be feeling anything for a while."

Holding her glass on win the diamonds around Ms. Conner wrist give a sparkle in the light. Taking a sip and having up the phone she walks behind the desk running her hand along her husbands shoulders before taking the paper.

"This should work nicely and if any other problems come up its not like it will be hard for you to get it fixed."

Her own tone matched her husbands thought it was obvious where Bree got her pretty features from.

"She brought this on herself really I feel no pity."

Taking the last sip of her wine Ms. Conner lets out a tired bored sigh as she lays the paper down on the desk again. Brushing the wrinkles out of her expensive dress

"Lunch sounds good. I hope Ronnie and Stacy are on the yacht today to show off my new diamonds."

Attempt

Sparky wanders out to the porch of the dining hall and leans on the railing, scanning the ranch yard. All was quiet. Peaceful. A chill was in the air and he pulls his jacket a little tighter. Another day gone... another twenty-four hours dispersed into memory.

Turning to head down the steps, he happens to glance inside the window once more. His eye catches sight of Annie and Faith, chatting with Jim and Becky at the table. Friends and family were two of the greatest blessings in life.

Stuffing his hands in his pockets, he trudges down the steps and wanders to the bunkhouse, his stride slow.


"Seriously?" The corners of Eli's mouth twitch as he stands in Ryan's kitchen, looking at the tickets Leo had given her. He transforms a laugh into a cough, though it's obvious from his eyes that he's holding back the humor he sees in this.

"A musical, huh?" He clears his throat, letting her keep the tickets. "I, um... think that sounds like just the thing for you and Leo. As a matter of fact, I think I'd probably just be in the way, so you can go then tell me all about it when you come back."

Locking eyes with his sister, something finally comes out, sounding like a combination of a snicker and a choke. "But you'll have to be sure and sing all the songs for me."


Gunner is jolted as the van hits a pothole. Barely opening his eyes, his police instincts kick in and he remains quiet and still, trying to figure out what was going on. They were in a moving vehicle. Going at a pretty fast pace - must be a back street or outskirts of town. Keeping his eyes closed to narrow slits, he sees the police officer Bryant, and the thug Roger. In the front of the van were the two doctors and Bree slumped over unconscious. Where were they being taken?

Bree's confession of her past echos in Gunner's mind. Was this connected? It had to be. But why had they taken him too? Just because he'd gotten in the way? But if they both were held, there would be no hope of escape.

Adrenaline builds in his veins, his heartrate quickening. He could feel the cuffs tight on his wrists - he was virtually helpless. But any dent would weaken a structure and if he made enough dents, there might be some hope.

Shooting up from the floor, he lunges for Roger with a loud growl. Plowing into him head first, he takes him to the floor, giving him a hard headbutt to the mouth and a knee right where it hurts.

Taken totally by surprise, Bryant's eyes widen. He'd thought Gunner was still unconscious. "Why you..." On top of him quickly, he grabs his nightstick and in one blow, Gunner was motionless once again. Grumbling, Bryant drags Gunner off Roger and back to the corner. "This guy weighs a ton. Roger, you alright?"


Mr. Conner sits behind his large oak desk, his hands folded in front of him, his face expressionless. He turns his head to look at his wife as she hangs up the phone. "It's for the best," he reasons, his voice cold compared to the temperature of the room. "She never was right."

A whirring behind him causes him to turn as a fax comes through. Taking the paper, he scans it quickly then hands it to his wife. It was a signed document from Crescentview Mental Facility, agreeing upon the suggested terms for Bree's stay. Radical treatment was required. Outside visitors would be strictly prohibited indefinitely, until mental stability could be proven. Under no circumstances was Jack Timble to be allowed on the premises. The legal documents signed by the judge had been received, and they bound any family member to these terms. Only Mr. or Mrs. Conner could take legal action in having the agreement modified. In case of their death, the case would be turned over to the state, not extended family.

"I think that should cover it." Mr. Conner stands and smooths out his suit, tightening his tie. "Shall we go have lunch now?"

Call

Both Dr.'s take Bree's drugged up body out of the restraint trying there best not to hurt her more than they already had from the welts on her arms. It was ok thought, she struggled and they had to use force.

Getting her nicely into the van and buckled in the one Dr sits up with Bree and the other gets in to driver side.

Not far behind Roger helps the officer with Gunner. Opening the back doors of the van they throw him inside before getting in as well and shutting the doors.

"Bryant, Sit on the other side of him in case he wakes up. I doubt he will till we are long gone but just in case."

Looking to the front Roger barks his orders.

"Got a good ways out of town on the way to the hospital and than find an ally way. We can dump this guy there and by times he comes to we will be gone."

Leaning back in the van as it starts off with a jerk Roger pulls out his phone and dials a number. Waiting for an answer on the other end of a woman's voice.

"We got her."

"She is awfully quiet I am surprised."

"Yep, she is knocked out at the moment but we are heading there after we dump off some extra baggage."

"Extra baggage?"

"Some guy that was with her. I IDed him as Brent Franklin."

"You idiot, what if he causes trouble?"

Cringing just a little and looking across the van at Bryant he gives a nod.

"Dont worry he wont."

"He better not. Let me know when you get to the hospitable."

Hearing the line go dead Roger hands up his phone and puts it away. The only things to do now was wait.

Darkness

Mick chuckles at BJ, disappointed with the short conversation, but relieved too, that he didn't have to end it himself. Hearing Rosetta again, his voice becomes quiet once more. "I love you too... I promise I'll come home soon. Hang in there."

Brenda comes around the corner and gives Mick a sympathetic but prompting look. He knew what it meant, and his shoulders drop a little. "Rosetta, I have to go now. I'll call again when I can, okay?" He wishes there was something more he could say... something more substantial. But it all seemed so trite.


So engrossed in the fun at the table, Gunner's guard is down. His usually alert ears and eyes don't notice the four men slip inside and approach the table. By the time they arrive, it's too late.

The fun comes to an instant halt as Gunner's gaze whips to Bree, his eyes starting to widen. It all just happens way too fast. Stunned as Bree is grabbed and screams, he doesn't even know who these men are or what they want. But his instincts kick in and he knew this was danger.

His eyes narrow immediately, the humor instantly replaced by cold anger for coming after Bree. "Let her go!" he barks. Getting to his feet, he steps towards the doctor that had a hold on Bree's arm, but he's pushed back. Realizing that more force is going to be needed, Gunner hauls off and swings a punch, then reaches behind his back. He was running on reflexes now, and his knife was his only weapon.

A strong hand grips his wrist just as he's reaching for his knife. His arm is wrenched behind his back as the hard coolness of metal handcuffs hits his skin. His own fear sets in as he sees Bree continuing to fight, and now he was being subdued as well. "Get off of me!" He tries to whip around to see who was behind him, but all he could get a glimpse of was a police uniform.

"Now, now, take it easy, you know as well as we do that she needs to go back to the hospital."

Gunner feels as though he's been kicked in the gut. Hospital. Doctors. No... oh, no, no, this couldn't be happening. Bree's parents had left her alone. She hadn't seen Roger. She'd been safe. This couldn't be them. But as he looks to the man who was leading this bunch, he knew. He knew in his heart of hearts that this was Roger, aka bounty hunter, hired by Bree's parents. But why?

"No!" Gunner tries to rip himself from the officer's hold, only managing to cut his hands on the cuffs. "Let her go! Don't do this!"

Adrenaline surges through his veins and he thrashes wildly, dragging the officer until they're both brought to the floor. He feels a kick to his spine and a blow to his ribs, but he pays little attention. His eyes were on Bree who was being injected then put in a straight jacket. "Bree! No! Let her go! Bree!"

His hat is knocked off and sweat pours down his face as he struggles with the officer. "I'm an Elite agent, dang it! Let me go! You'll pay! Bree!" But as he sees her disappearing through the restaurant door, a final blow to his skull sends him into darkness.

Drug

Taking the phone and putting it to his ear BJ's eyes light up as he hears Mick's voice. It had been a long time since he hurd Mick's voice, and the young boy missed his dad very much.

"Daddy, I've miss you. I have been a dood boy, and Uncle Jeff has been helping me with checkers so when you come home I can be better to play with you."

Bringing his loose finger to his up to his lips BJ thinks for a long moment before his stomach starts to growl from hunger.

"I love you Daddy, come home soon. I got to go now before my tummy eats itself."

Handing the phone back to Rosetta BJ quickly walks back into the dinning area to sit down and start him meal.

Holding the phone again Rosetta brings it to her ear clearing her throat.

"We both love you a lot and cant wait for you to come home.Get better soon ok?"

Not being able to contain her laughter as Gunner's drink goes everywhere it rings loud and clear. It was a rare sight to see Bree laugh like this let alone in public, but here she was her laugh so light, but filled with a feeling she hadn't felt in a while.

"Your making a mess, your lucky they expect this from us."

As the laughter and joking contines on the inside, a small group of four assemble on the outside of the restraint. Plans set, how things would go down, and sedatives ready. They would bank on there target freaking, and that would just prove there cause. It would be fast, and easy no room for question.

Evering and going quietly over to the table, they were un noticed for now, but not for long as they would strike standing behind Bree, Roger towered and two Dr's once on each side.

Taking Bree by the arm he leaned down a little his own eyes on Gunner to watch his movement.

"Bree, just come quietly and dont make a scene it will be easyer for you in the long run."

Laughing to hard to even notice anyone came into the restraint let alone being standing behind her it goes unnoticed by Bree. But feeling the cold hand on her arm and the hard voice in her ear does Bree's face go pale as an instant panic appears in her eyes as Bree looks across the table at Bree.

Before anything else can happen Bree almost seems to go into a trance, not knowing where she was but only feeling the fear of going back to the hospital once again. Jerking her arm from Rogers grasp Bree slips from the chair and table.

"NO, I WONT GO BACK."

Moving to get around the table Bree runs into one of the Dr's who grabs her holding her arms rather tight.

"Bree, calm down."

Letting out a blood curdaling scream Bree trys her best to squirm, kick and claw her way away from the Dr. but not being able to move with another Dr at her back it was no use. Tears streamed from Bree's eyes.

"No, No...NOOO....LET ME GO."

Feeling a sting, and a cool liqued go through her veins Bree looks down to see she had been injected with something she had felt before as everything starts to spin. She still tried to kick and claw her way, away as deep red marks mad there way on her arms from where she was being held but the drug was starting to kick in all ready, making her feel sick, and her world spin.

Turning Bree around the Dr wraps his arms around Bree to keep her up while the other put the white jacket on her. Roger looks across the table at Gunner.

"She comes with us. This woman escaped the mental hospital and is very dangerous. Just let us pass and nothing will happen to you."

Volcano

Mick can hear the strain in Rosetta's voice and it chips off another piece of his heart. He tries to keep his tone steady though. "Yeah... I got enough time to talk to him. Put him on."

Waiting until he hears the boy's voice, Mick tries to be as upbeat as possible. "Hey, BJ! I miss you so much. But I'll be home soon, okay? Have you been behaving for Mom?"


While in the house, Mick was unaware of the episode going on outside...

"Dylan, no! It's not worth it!"

Not listening to Adam's call, Dylan keeps going, his sneakers pounding on the hard ground. Breathing heavily, he reaches the end of the driveway. Freedom. But one more step is all it takes. It had rained two days ago. And last night, the temperature had been cold.

As Dylan's foot hits a patch of slick ice, the world turns upside down. Sprawling hard on the ground, the wind is knocked out of him. Trying to pick himself up, he lets out a cry as pain shoots through his shoulder.

Adam skids to a stop and kneels next to him. "Where are you hurt?"

"Get away from me," Dylan growls. This had been his one chance to get away from here, and one wrong step had cost him his freedom.

"Just settle down," Adam chides firmly. "You really wanna go? Go. But nothing's waiting for you out there than the same thing you came here with - trouble and a life worth nothing because you threw it away." He pauses, seeing the shape of Dylan's arm. "And on top of that, you'll be walking around with a dislocated shoulder. Now come on."

Dylan winces as Adam helps him up. He'd try to bolt again, were it not for the excruciating pain. "What do you care?" he grumbles. He'd been here close to two weeks and this was the closest thing to a conversation with Adam as he'd had.

"I guess because I'm wired that way. I care about people and I care about where they end up. You've got too much potential for me to just walk away." Adam positions Dylan next to him and feels his shoulder. "This is gonna hurt."

Dylan braces himself for the yank, crunch and pop. His eyes water from the pain, but he doesn't utter a sound.

Adam stops and just studies him for a long moment. "You need to put some ice on that. Follow me."

With his head down, Dylan trudges after Adam.


Sparky walks past the kitchen in time to realize that Rosetta and BJ were around the phone. From the look on Rosetta's face, he could only imagine that it was Mick, so he keeps on walking, not wanting to intrude.

Scanning all the faces of those who were gathering to eat, Sparky tries to decide where he wants to sit, but spotting only a few empty chairs, he wanders to the outskirts, nearer the hearth. Sitting at he smaller table, his mind wanders to and fro. He thinks about when Mick might be back and how that will change things again. He was just getting used to the new routines, but once Mick was home, things would change back to the way they were. It should be that way... Mick was the man in charge. But at the moment, the men were looking to Sparky for direction, and he was filling the role as need be. He'd done it before... and just like before, the position would be removed once Mick was back. Sparky didn't like the little pangs of selfishness that wanted to escape, and he tried to smother them with thoughts of the positive aspects.

Fiddling with a salt shaker, he doesn't notice when the food is being served. His thoughts bounce from his own dilemma to Faith and the question of why someone as sweet as she, needed to go through a physical nightmare. It didn't seem fair. But God never promised fairness and Sparky knew it all too well.

He then thinks of Dan and Jade. That brings his mind full-circle back to Mick and when he returned. How would that affect the young couple that had obviously fallen for each other? Sparky didn't want to see either one get hurt - they'd already both faced enough in their lives without this being hard too.

Sighing, Sparky folds his arms to rest his head on them, closing his eyes. The older he got, the more engrossed he became in trying to fix the problems around him. But sometimes, there was just nothing he could do. It was harder now than it used to be to let go though.


Gunner waits for Bree to return, his grin a wide, silly one. "I'm as ready as I'll ever be. He holds up his keys. "My turn to drive."

It was a quick drive to the little diner, and they take up their normal spot by the window. Ordering floats that don't float while keeping straight faces was their routine, and it didn't change, even when they had a new waitress today. By the time she came back with their floats, she was so confused that Gunner made a note to be sure and leave a good tip for putting up with them.

Most of the time, dates over lunchtime were fairly quiet as Gunner and Bree took time to relax from the workday. Neither minded the long breaks in conversation, but today Gunner was in rare form, his goofy side coming out more than normal.

With his elbows spread on the table, his head was bent low so he could still manipulate the straw in his glass without using his hands. His hat was still backward and he glances up to Bree, then back down almost cross-eyed to his float. Blowing slowly through his straw, bubbles started to form. As the ice cream and foam rose, it came dangerously close to the rim of the glass, but he continued to blow, seeing how much of a mountain could be created before it overflowed.

At some point, one of the bubbles bursts, sending rootbeer spray onto his nose. Up until this point, his face had been sober, but that did it. An uncontrolled laugh comes out, but unfortunately, his mouth was still around his straw. The sudden burst of air causes a brief but powerful eruption, sending ice cream froth and rootbeer into the air like a mini firework, splattering in a sticky mess all over Gunner's side of the table.

Having sucked in as a reaction to the volcano, Gunner's mouth was now full, but his laughter was hindering him from swallowing. His silent laughter makes his face grow redder and redder until he turns his hat around to cover it up, desperately trying not to spit out what was in his mouth.

Popsicle

Hearing Mick's voice sent a chill through Rosetta. It had been so long since she had herd such a sweet sound. Hearing he was doing better was an even nicer sounds. The better he was the sooner he could come home and though it hurt that he couldn't come home today, or tomorrow it was comforting to know, to hear from him he was well.

As the conversation comes back around to her Rosetta pauses for a moment. She didnt want Mick to worry about her while he was there, but if she lied to him he would know and that might just upset him more.

"I'm here..I will be alot better once you are home again. But I am hanging in there the best I can. Not a day goes by I dont think of you, and pray you will come home soon."

Rosetta can feel her own voice crack as she stands in the kitchen leaning against the wall.

"That day will be one of the best days. BJ is here, do you have time to talk to him?"

Cringing just a little as Leo trips over the tool box Ryan closes her eyes not wanting to even see him fall. But not hearing him hit the ground she opens her eyes to see Jed caught him. A grin forms on her face once again as she just shakes her head and goes back to the car she had been working on.

Giving a shake of her head, it was always nice to see Gunner interact with the kids. They took so well to him, and just to have someone out of the norm come and see them was a nice treat.

"Come on guys, lets get you back to the story so you can finish hearing it to ok? Maybe if your good Gunner will come back again to see you as well."

Ushering the two kids down the hall Bree holds up her finger to let Gunner know she would be right back.

With in minutes Bree was back and with her jacket this time. She had an hour for lunch but than had to be back. It was a nice break in the day to get out and just go some where for lunch. Not to mention Gunner and herself always made the best of it.

"Alright ready to blow this popsicle stand?"

Rugrats

Leo bites his lip until a grin slips out. He could see the laughter behind Ryan's eyes, though she respected him too much not to let it out. "You won't be sorry... I promise."

He backs towards his own car again before turning around one more time. "But you have to make sure Eli agrees to go. Odd man out or not, just make sure he says yes, even if you have to bribe him with a late night ice cream afterward, on me."

Walking backward, he hadn't seen the toolbox that Jed had set beside the car and his foot catches it. Starting to fall, Jed catches him and they do a little fumbling dance before they're both steady again.

Jed puts his hands on his hips and shakes his head. "Dude... get your head back where it belongs and quit flirting with your girl."

Though red in the face, Leo tosses Ryan a grin and a wink. Flirting with her was worth any amount of razzing at work.


Gunner sees the two little girls come running down the hall and his grin widens. Hanging up the phone, he slides off the counter just in time to sweep the littlest one off her feet and tuck her to his hip. "Hey, Tiger, slow down or you're gonna plow right into somebody."

His lips smack her forehead with a "Mwah!" right before he's joined by the second child. "Whoa, I'm being attacked." He hugs her to his other side, tickling her spine. "Don't tell me you want a date too."

Finally seeing Bree, a chuckle escapes. "For a minute, I thought I was gonna have to leave you high and dry for these two cuties."

Setting the child back on her feet, he squats down, pulling a couple balloons from his back pocket, which he promptly blows up and gives to each of them. He stands up again, setting his hands on his hips and looking to Bree. "If you wanna get these rugrats back to where they belong, that float is waiting..." He reaches down to cover up one of the girls' ears teasingly. "...And that kiss."

Friends

Looking up from under the car Ryan could see Leo clearly from where an engine once sat in a car. Giving him a grin she listens to him talk as she continues to work.

"You know I always like going place with you, but dragging my brother along, thats....he might feel like the third wheel ya know?"

Ryan scrunches her nose as she tightens a bolt before looking up again at the tickets Leo held. Not being able to see to well from under the car Ryan pushes herself from under the car and stands. Whipping her hands on her pants before coming around to Leo. Taking the tickets from him to look at the closer.

Feeling a small laugh build inside of her Ryan does her best to keep it down not wanting to laugh at all. It was aparent Leo wanted to go. Her was right when he said it was something they didn't often do.

Looking over the tickets for a moment and raising her eyebrow Ryan just looks at Leo. Finally handing the tickets back to Leo Ryan gives a nod.

"Ok, I'll go and check it out with you. Never know I could end up liking it right? And...I'll ask Eli to if he would like to go as well. Just for you Leo."

Sitting in the room with a group of the kids Bree flips the page of the book she was reading to them. About to start another page Bree stop hearing the announcement start. Not being able to help the chuckle that escapes her lips the corners of her lips start to turn up into a smile.

Before Bree can even stand two of the girls from the back of the group ages 5, and 7 jump up heading for the door.

"Kim, Chang...wait."

But it was to late both were out the door and down the hall squealing.

"GUNNER, GUNNER, GUNNER...."

Passing the book off to one of the older children to continue reading Bree stands and leaves the room. Coming down the hall, a large smile on her face, Bree didnt care who was around and watching knowing she was with Gunner. She wasn't embarrassed by him or his display. Crossing her arms across her chest she gives another laugh.

"Looks like you made some frineds Gunner. Right about now, I think none ice cream floats, cherrys, and kiss sound great."

Your party

Tears spring into Mick's eyes at Rosetta's words. He hadn't planned on being emotional, but to just have the first thing she says be that she loved him... it sent pangs through his heart that were too much to bear. He'd failed miserably but she still loved him.

"I love you too." His voice cracks and he pauses until he can speak clearly. Bends to rest his elbows on the counter, closing his eyes to concentrate on what he wanted to say.

"I miss you guys something terrible. Every night all I can think about is you and BJ... that's what keeps me going... and what keeps me here until I can handle things again." Be bites his lip. "I've only got a few minutes..." He might have been friends with Adam and Brenda, but he knew that while he was here as a client, he had to abide by the rules. "...but I wanted to call and.... and let you know that I'm okay. I'm... I'm getting better. I want to be able to come home soon and make up for all the stupid things I've said and done and... I don't know... I just want to make things right."

Swallowing hard, he rubs his forehead, trying to stay on track. "Are you doing okay?"


Eli gives a little smile, the atmosphere having suddenly gone melancholic. "Yeah... yeah, I miss him too."

Taking a deep breath, Eli gets up to go dump out the rest of his beer, then comes back to hang over the back of the couch, his hands folded. "Thanks, Ry... I really appreciate what you're doing... someday I'll be able to pay back the favor."

Straightening and roughing up her hair, he turns to the hallway. "I'm gonna hit the sack. Tomorrow I'll make some phone calls and start the job hunt. And... I'll think about staying here or finding space at Leo's."


Stars dot the dark Nevada sky. For some, they are a wondrous display to be watched and admired before cuddling on the couch to fall asleep with a movie droning in the background. For some, the nighttime specks were nightlights, keeping watch over those slumbering past the worries and doubts of their futures. For others still, the stars gave hope that even the darkest night was not so dark after all, and the promise of morning was still there. And morning did come, slow and sure, the closest star of all rose in the east to pain the sky's canvas brilliant colors of pinks and golds, calling those sleeping to wake for the day.


"No, I'm living off unemployment at the moment, but hopefully that'll be over soon."

"Well whats the bandage for if it's not done yet?"

Axel leans back against the toolbench, glancing down at his hand. It was still a bite sore, even after this long after the minor surgery. "Trial run." He grins at Miles' feet sticking out from under the car in the auto shop. "It's complicated. But it was worth a shot."

"Daryl letting you come back afterward?"

"Yeah, he said he was keeping the spot open for me. If I can get the use of my hand back, I'll be back to work. If not... I'll have to figure something else out."

On the other side of the shop, Leo half listens to Axel while leaning into an engine and half paying attention to his conversation with Ryan too. He'd let her know that he was fine with Eli rooming with him if he wanted to, and he was glad that this new friend would be sticking around in the area. He knew that it made Ryan happy too, which made him even more glad.

Something else was on his mind too though and after missing half of what Ryan just said, he withdraws from the engine, wiping his oily hands on his rag. "Hey, Ryan..." Ambling to where she was working on another car, he leans on the frame, glancing in to what she was doing. "I checked the work schedule and there's a day coming up that neither of us are working. I thought maybe that night you and me and Eli could go do something."

He fiddles with his rag, oddly hesitant before reaching in his pocket and pulling out a couple tickets. "I... know this isn't the kind of thing we normally do and I don't know if Eli would actually want to or not but... I thought it might be fun... kinda different. I got a hold of front row seats."

The two tickets, one for Ryan and one fore Eli, were to a music and dance performance at the convention center in the next city over. Advertisements had been around town, proving that it was a fairly big local event. Fliers had described the show as a musical, portraying a story of young love and comedy. The dance routines were showcased as the main attraction, along with upbeat, contemporary music.

Leo was right - this was not something they would normally attend. It was pretty far from street races, action movies or parties. He could imagine Eli bursting out laughing at the idea, but he wanted him along for a reason, and he just hoped that Ryan would accept, even if she really didn't want to go. "What do you think?"


Gunner casually wanders into the children's hospital that was becoming more familiar. Today, he was in sneakers and jeans, a black pull-over hoodie keeping him warm. His baseball cap was turned backward so a few tufts of his hair stuck through the hole and his Elite badge swung from around his neck. He was without his sidearm today, but only a few people would know he had a knife hidden up his back.

Leaning on the counter, he throws a nurse an unmistakably flirtatious look, along with an obvious wink. Completely turned off, the appalled nurse sidles away so someone else could deal with him. Grinning at his success, Gunner looks over the counter before glancing left then right, and finding himself briefly alone. Checking out the phone, he boosts himself up to sit on the counter, his legs swinging. He reaches for the phone, and holds it upside down like a mic, pressing the button for the intercom.

"Miss Conner, your party is waiting. If you're in the mood for a floatless float topped with a cheery and a kiss, please come to the front desk. Miss Conner, your party awaits."

Several surprised shouts come from a back room and Gunner knew that in moments, he would be surrounded by irritated nurses. He didn't move though, still seated on the desk counter watching down the hall for Bree.

Miss Him

Receiving Bret's kiss Charlotte is all to quick to give back the emotions she felt. It had been a crappy day, and her chair layed broke in the kitchen but that was only minor to what could of happened.

Wrapping her arms around her husband as the kiss continues Charlotte was non to quick for it to end. Bret meant the world to her, and nothing could change that. She had taken the time to see deeper into his heart, past the quick temper, to see the man that was there, giving his love to her and nothing could even change that. At one point in life Charlotte could never dream of having someone else take care of her, but now she couldn't imagine being alone again.

Ryan gives a thoughtful not to Eli. She didn't mind helping him get back on his feet. As long as he payed off his dept, and stayed out of trouble it was not problem to her.

"You can stay here and not worry about rent right now, and if you dont feel comfortable with that I know Leo was looking for a roommate so you could ask him."

Standing and bringing her glass to the sink in the kitchen Ryan rinses it out before coming back into the livingroom and hopping back up on the couch Indian style.

"As for jobs, you cant work where I work because you might show me up in front of the other..."

Ryan gives a sidelong glance to Eli as a grin forms on her lips proving she was kidding with him.

"...But I can ask Derail if he knows any other shops that are looking for people. I know I saw some signs I just don't remember where."

Thinking for a long moment Ryan sits quietly. But hearing Eli's mention to there father Ryan looks to him and gives a small. A glisten behind her eye. Though she didnt day it much, she did miss there dad, and she though about him often.

"I wish he was here to see us. I miss him alot around this time of year."

Hearing who was on the phone for her Rosetta gets up from the table a little quicker than normal. Calling BJ to come with her. She couldn't leave him out when almost every day he had asked where Dad was and when he was coming home.

Getting into the kitchen Rosetta takes the phone and just holds it for a long moment. Gathering her words on what she was going to say. Finally bringing the phone to her ear, everything she wanted to say left her mind, and she could feel herself choak up as Mick's breathing could be hurt on the other end.

"Mick? I love you."

It was the only thing she could think of saying because How are you just didnt seem right, and asking when he would be home right off the bat seemed tastless. So her words were simple but strong, leaving room for Mick to talk next!

Ten minutes

Emotions fill Bret's eyes as he's reassured by Charlotte that he is good enough and that she will not leave. After Maria, his greatest fear was going through that heartache all over again, so just having Charlotte assure him now was more than he could ask for.

As his thoughts are brought to their unborn child, he looks down at his hand as he can just barely feel movement. His eyes come back up to his wife's and they glisten in the dim light. Maybe it was the alcohol, maybe it was the stress, or maybe it was relief. Regardless, only she would see the tear in his eye before he leans in to press his lips to hers.

He was sorry their day had turned out so poorly and that they had fought. But as confident as she was about staying with him, so too was he confident that he could never let her go. Taking her into an embrace as the kiss lingers, all he cares about now is how much he loved her.


Eli looks up at Ryan and grins. "Alright... I'll give it a shot. Anything I got left back in Florida, I can have my buddy send to me. If I can actually find a job around here, most of my paycheck will be going towards my debt. But if you can stand me being here for a while... I'll be able to make it up to you eventually. Unless you can help me find a cheap place so I won't have to take up your spare room any longer."

Taking another sip of beer, he grimaces. "This doesn't even taste good tonight." Setting it down, he sighs and glances to Ryan again. "You're the best sister any guy could ever ask for, and don't you forget it. Pops would be so proud of you."


Sparky grins as he and Faith walk back towards the dining hall. It felt natural for them to link arms. He couldn't explain it, but over the course of just a few hours, he felt like old friends. He didn't know if she did or not, but he at least felt as though this afternoon had been a lifetime.

Arriving inside, many of the others have already gathered. Sparky points towards a middle table. "Looks like Annie saved you a spot." He lets her arm slide from his. "I'll see you later."

In the kitchen, the phone rings and Becky sets down a basket of rolls to answer it. Hearing who it was, she quickly sets down the receiver and goes to find Rosetta and BJ, who were joining in tonight.

Leaning down so only Rosetta could hear, Becky keeps her voice low. "Brenda gave Mick ten minutes on the phone - he's waiting for you."

...Mick bites his lip as he leans on the kitchen counter, alone in the room. He was doing well enough that Adam and Brenda agreed he could have minimal contact with his family now. A ten minute phone call was an eternity compared to the silence over the last week and a half. He only hoped Rosetta would actually want to talk to him.

Gift

Just listing to her brother Ryan was intent on hearing everything not letting a thing slip by. Eli was her brother and she would always do what she could for him. Even if she was the baby sister.

"My brother has become, the same person I always new. Your no differnt just because you made some bad chooses. Heck, we all do. If I had never made that bed on Leo, I never would of owed Roth money and I never would of taken a bullet. Every choose we make has its consequences."

Standing Ryan makes her way over to her brothers side and just puts an arm around his shoulder. No matter what she would always love him. Not because she had to, but because she wanted to.

"We will find you a new job ok and than you wont be mooching so you can stop yapping on about that. Things will work themself out."

Sitting up even more so she could be closer to Brett, Charlotte intertwines her fingers with him just holding it and not saying anything for a long moment. Finally looking up at Bret Charlotte cocks her head to the side studying his eyes.

"Bret, I am not Maria. I love more than just for money, and I want you for more than just the simple material things you can off me. Your more than good enough for me, the day I ment you, you were, the day of your accident, and even today you still more than I could ever ask for."

Pausing for a moment Charlotte takes in a breath gathering her thoughts before starting again.

"I'll never leave you Bret! I love you far to much to do a silly think like that. As far as ever wanting or needing anything..."

Charlotte takes another deep breath as she can feel a soft little kick inside her belly. Taking Bret's hand and resting it on her stomach so he could feel the soft movement too Charlotte keeps her hand on top of his. Looking up into his eyes and giving a smile.

"...You already gave me the greatest gift of all."

"Mmm...I think everything you talked to me about today was rather interesting. I learned a lot today that I never new."

Just gazing into Sparky's eyes for a long moment Faith finally looks away. Happy it was dark out so the warm color that had come to her cheeks could not be seen.

Looking up again and see Sparky off his arm to her, and the invitation to dinner Faith moves away from the fence and links arms with him. Being drawn closer to him she felt instantly warmer from the nights cold air.

"Dinner sounds fantastic. I hadn't realized how hungry I was till just now. Lead on my good man."

Giving a chuckle Faith was ready to make there way to dinner.

Debt

Sparky's eyes are drawn into Faith's and he chuckles quietly. "Payment? I'll teach you to ride because I want to, not because I want you to work for it."

Hearing her thanks, he finally breaks his gaze and leans back on the fence, looking towards the main house and dining hall where lights were shining from the windows. "I enjoyed the day too. Most people would get bored with my company, so either you're easily entertained or I actually came up with something interesting enough for you to stick around."

He gives her a sidelong glance, shooting her a wry grin. Straightening, he holds out the crook of his arm. "Join me in the dining hall for supper?"


"Yeah..." Bret sighs. "I know. I guess we both messed up." His voice was much calmer than it had been hours earlier.

"I'm sorry for yelling at you too. You hurt my feelings... but I still shouldn't have lost my temper like that. I just... I guess it brought up some bad memories and I thought I was gonna start losing you because I wasn't doing a good enough job."

He pauses, reaching out to stop Charlotte's fingers from picking at the blanket, and he raises his eyes to meet hers. "I'll be able to drive again in a few weeks... then we'll have more money. Just... don't give up on me, okay? I promise I'll do my best so you won't need for anything and... and you won't have to work."

A fear was in his eyes... a fear that Charlotte would find her independence again and no longer need him. A fear that he would not be good enough anymore. A fear that he would lose what was most precious to him.


Eli lets out a long, weary sigh, but he nods. It was only fair that Ryan knew everything. "Well, I'm not gonna mooch, but I do want to stay... I like being around my family again and I was getting pretty tired of Florida anyway."

Staring to pace again, he wanders to the kitchen to grab himself a beer from the six pack he'd bought a couple days ago. Flipping open the tab, he comes back to the living room and sinks down into the chair again, taking a long sip.

"I got in with the wrong crowd, Ryan. I don't know how, but... it seemed like a good idea at the time. I wanted some extra money to bet on some of the races going on down there, so I thought what the hey... turn a blind eye and don't get caught, what's the harm?" He sighs again. "They had me make a few deliveries. I didn't ask and they didn't tell. Ends up that I place a personal bet with one of these guys and I lose. Problem was, I had bet more money than I had. So... I started paying him little by little. He wasn't satisfied though and at that point, it was either pay him or get a bullet to my head. I started rooming with another guy so my rent wouldn't be so high, and I got the other guy to back down until I could pay him off. I did, but... in the meantime, I wound up owing a bunch of other people because all my money was going towards the thug down the street."

Eli scoffs at himself and takes another sip of beer. "I got bills up the ying yang and it's just getting deeper. Then when I came out here, I didn't actually have but a couple days vacation time. My boss warned me that I had to be back, but coming here was more important. I took a risk and lost. Found out a couple weeks ago that I don't have a job to go back to. So now... I'm in debt up to my gills and I don't have a job."

Tapping a finger on his beer can, Eli finally looks to his sister. He was embarrassed to admit all this. He was supposed to be the strong one... the smart one. "So there you have it, Speedy. This is what your brother has become."

Joy

Feeling the gentile shake to her shoulder a potent smell fills her noise like someone had spend the night in the bar. Slowly opening her eyes and seeing Bret a small smile comes to her face. No matter what seeing Bret always made her smile.

"Hey, I know but I wanted to wait and have dinner with you."

Sitting up a little Charlotte searches Bret's eyes for a long moment. She would of waiting forever for him to come home, as long as he had.

Looking down at her hands for a long moment Charlotte picks at the blanket that was over her legs. She had done alot of thinking of her own, and though she was upset with Bret for more than one reason, it was her fault this whole thing started. She was pig headed, and thick skulked and she new it.

"I'm sorry I didn't tell you. I was going to tell you honest before the last show because I wanted you to be there, but I should have talked to you first. I'm so use to being independent...and though I meant good by it I just didn't think."

Hearing Sparky's words brought Faith a bit of comfort. It was nice to hear the kind words and it made her smile. Hearing conformation about Angel as well was nice. To have someone tell you a Dr was good, was one thing but having someone confirm it was just an added comfort. Giving a smile Faith gives a nod.

"Teach me how to ride for real, and let me help you in the barn as payment?"

Giving a smile to Sparky Faith's eyes give a twinkle as she scans his face. The moonlight seemed to reflect off it just right and his handsome features donning a soft glow. Her heart gave a little flutter.

"I really did enjoy spending the day with you. Thank you."

"Eli, your family I could never turn you away. You can mooch off me all you like, its what familys are for. You know Pop taught us better than to turn anyone in need away."

Turning off the TV Ryan moves to the edge of the couch bringing her arms to her knees and leaning forward. Thinking for a long moment. Ryan new Eli was proud, it ran in the family because she was to. She only hopped Eli would let her help.

"Eli, you can stay here as long as you need to and I mean that. I like having you around again, and I will help you all I can, bills finding you a job. I'll help. It would be more a burden on me for you to leave and have me worry about you. But in order to stay here, you have to tell me everything from the start...ok?"

Friends

Eli glances over to Ryan, wondering at her tone. Did she know? It wouldn't take a genius - he'd been hanging around for much longer than thought to begin with, without ever mentioning returning to Florida. He just hadn't wanted to admit what was really going on, but he hadn't wanted to leave either.

"Sure... You're a plus of course. But looks like mechanics aren't too hard to come by around here - as far as I could see, your auto shops are all filled up." He shrugs. "As far as food goes, I've been eating off of you for too long already."

Pausing for several moments he finally leans forward with a little groan, tossing the pack of cards aside. "Ryan..." He rests his elbows on his knees, putting his chin in his hands. It was rare that he would refuse to look her in the eye, but he did now. "There's stuff... I mean... " Sighing, he suddenly stands up, pacing a little and looking up to the ceiling. "I haven't been too smart, Ry. I come with... a long list of regrets that I'd rather not have to admit to my sister."

Eventually he stops pacing and looks down at Ryan. "I, um... I've got people that would just prefer I got back to Florida. But not because they miss me. They just want my wallet. Unfortunately, you can't squeeze blood from a turnip and right now, I feel like a turnip."

He didn't know if his implication that he owed money was enough for her to understand or not. "And..." He stops. "I didn't want to tell you this... I guess 'cause I'm mad at myself." He shrugs. "I want to stay here... I really do. Main reason is you. Another reason is that I've been rooming with another guy 'cause I couldn't afford my own place. And... another reason is that... I don't have a job anymore. When I said I was mooching off of you, I wasn't lying... I really have been."

Hooking his hands in his jeans pockets, he just looks at his sister, obviously embarrassed, but at the same time, relieved that she knew. There were a lot of details though.... and he owed her an explanation. But he'd let her digest what he'd just said first.


Sparky cocks his head and stops alongside Faith, sensing something wrong. Listening quietly, he doesn't interject, though his facial expression softens, his eyes showing he was troubled by the news of this new friend.

As she looks up at him, he lets his eyes linger on hers, not afraid to see her emotions shimmering through them. "Anybody in your shoes would be scared," he responds quietly. "There's nothing wrong with that."

Thinking a moment, he gives a little nod. "Annie was right - this is a good place to take care of yourself. We got our problems, but you won't find a better bunch of people, and Angel's a right fine doctor to look out for things after the surgery... 'cause I'm sure you'll make it through just fine."

Sparky offers a gentle smile. "You're a good example for anyone... living the day as if it's your last." Pausing, his eyes roam to the darkening ranch, then back to her eyes. "How can I help make that happen?"


"Bret, what on earth are you doing here? Do you know what time it is?"

Bret looks up at his big friend lamely. It was very late, that's all he knew. In reality, it was near one o'clock in the morning. It had been dark for quiet a while, and he was pretty sure that he'd woken up Con by his disheveled hair and tired eyes. "Can I come in?"

Con furrows his brow warily. "You been drinking?"

"Yeah..." Bret couldn't lie to Con. "Just a little."

Con sighs and opens the door. "Come in."

Bret looks down as he enters, and just stands like a whipped puppy until Con moves him to the living room chair to sit. Con looks at him with question. "Well?"

Bret swallows hard. "Charlotte and I... well no... we didn't really have a fight. I just..."

"Lost your temper again," Con states flatly. "What happened?"

"I don't know." Bret's eyes stay on the floor. "She just... she got another job without telling me and... and I just... I don't understand."

"Mmm." Con leans back in his chair. He'd probably be quite upset if Jamie did that, but that wasn't what Bret needed to hear right now. "So you walked out?"

"I didn't want to fight," Bret defends. "I... I... okay, maybe I yelled at her before I left. But I wanted to calm down so... so I got a drink then... came here."

"Or two, or three," Con corrects knowingly while frowning. "So Charlotte tells you she got a second job and you flip."

"At a nightclub!" Bret elaborates with exasperation. "Singing! I didn't even know she could sing. And she's pregnant! She shouldn't be working so much, let alone hiding it from me."

"Well, she's got a little time before she needs to settle down," Con reasons. He wanted to reprimand Bret for his reaction, but it was hard, imagining himself in that same position. He wouldn't be upset with Jamie - he would be furious. "Know why she did it?"

"Kinda." Bret moans and puts his face in his hands. "I guess I'm not good enough. I can't provide enough and I'm not even worthy to be let in on everything."

"Now hang on, don't blow it out of proportion."

"I'm not, Con! This is exactly what happened with Maria. We started with little fights, she started taking on things that she didn't let me in on, she decided I wasn't giving her enough, then one day, she realized she didn't need me anymore. Charlotte and I are heading down the same path. I can feel it and her keeping a job a secret from me just confirms it."

Con studies Bret's face for several moments. "You're scared of losing her, aren't you?"

"Terrified." Loosened up by alcohol, Bret's eyes fill. "I'm not doing a good enough job. I... I can't make enough money - I've been out of work forever 'cause of that stupid accident. I'm gonna have to support a family now, and my wife is out working two jobs. What does that say about me?"

"It says your wife loves you very much." Con shakes his head. "But it also says you two need to work on your communication. You're right - she shouldn't have kept that from you. She's probably got a whole list of reasons why, but she should have communicated with you. And you - you shouldn't be telling me this - you should be telling her this."

"But she'll just point out that we need the money!"

"Then either figure out a new job for you or swallow your pride until something better comes along."

Bret's shoulders drop and there is a long pause. "Can I just stay here the night?"

"No." Con rises and points to the door. "You need to go home to your wife."

"But-"

"No." Con waits for Bret to stand as well. "I'm not going to assist in hindering your marriage. Don't lay down and give up, Bret. You did that once. Fight to keep what you got this time. You know Charlotte's worth it."

"But I-"

"Walk a straight line." Con points to the floor.

Bret rolls his eyes and walks a straight line, going through a short routine to prove he was sober enough to drive, though he was inebriated.

"Now go home," Con directs. "And don't stop at the bar on your way."

Bret heaves a weary sigh and nods lamely. "Yeah... yeah, okay." Getting turned out, he limps down the walk to his car, feeling even lower than when he'd arrived.

Con makes sure his friend is on his way before shutting the door and letting out his own sigh. Shaking his head, he turns off the lights and heads back upstairs. Easing into bed, he gives a little groan, knowing he needed to cram in some more sleep before work in the morning. "Friends," he mumbles. "Gotta love 'em."


Bret parks in the drive and sits thinking for several long minutes. He was a bit more alert now, but just as depressed. Maybe he was more mad at himself now than anything. He was still upset with Charlotte, but he felt worse for yelling at her like he had.

Eventually, he gets himself to the front door and inside, finding only a small light on. Glancing into the kitchen, he sees that she had indeed fixed supper, and now it sat lonely and cold. Turning to the living room, he limps a few feet, seeing Charlotte lying on the couch. Just looking at her for a moment, he finally sheds his jacket and sets his keys aside.

Sitting on the edge of the couch, looking to his wife's face seems to shatter the anger he had left. He reaches down and runs a hand through her hair, then gently shakes her shoulder.

"Hey," he prompts quietly. He knew as soon as she woke, she'd be able to tell he'd been to the bar, but at this point, he knew there was a lot that needed to be said anyway. "You should be in bed."

Focus

Wanting to retort and make comment's back to Bret defending herself about why she didnt tell him Charlotte couldn't get a word in edge why. Maybe in a way it was better that way or she would just make things worse.

Leaving the laundry for now Charlotte's goes after him as he lets out a howl. Wanting to make sure he was ok. But as she gets to the kitchen the chair goes flying across the floor. As it hits the wall and breaks Charlotte gives a jump wrapping her arm around herself.

Just watching Bret leave the cold glare cutting through her hot tears from in Charlotte's eyes. From anger, being upset, shame. Slowly going over to the chair Charlotte sinks down to the floor picking up the broken peaces of the old oak chair. It was the only one in the set they had, that didnt match but it was special. Her grandmother had given it to her a few months back before she passed away. It wasnt much but it meant a lot of Charlotte.

Taking the peaces Charlotte just looks at them for a long moment thinking if she could put them together but it seemed unlikely. Standing and putting them over in the corner so I could be taken out with the trash.

Moving back to the fridge the tears still streamed from Charlotte's face but she had to figure out what was for dinner tonight. Bret said not to wait up, but she would have dinner on the table for him anyways.

Keeping her eyes straight ahead as she walked stealing glances at Sparky everyone once and a while. A smile on her face showing she was having a nice time just walking.

"I'd like to really learn how to ride a horse. Always wanted to since I was a kid, I just never had the opportunity too."

Continuing to walk, Faith lets out a thoughtful sigh at the mention of going home. It hadnt come up in conversation and she wasn't trying to hide it, it just simply hadn't come up. Looking at Sparky Faith gives a smile at Sparky.

"Oh, maybe I will go back sooner or later but right now...its just not in focus."

Stopping for a moment Faith leans against the one fence that was coming to an end just looking at the ground and thinking for a moment. The only person who new was Annie, and soon Rosetta, and Angel when they talked to them. But maybe having another friend know would be nice too. She wasn't ashamed it was just hard.

"I have nothing left in Thailand. My family is gone, and most the money I had was spent on Dr. bills that didn't do a darn bit of good."

Looking up at Sparky again Faith's eyes held emotions of someone who was thinking about something that was important and a little scare at the same time. Knowing Sparky would have no idea what she was talking about Faith continues.

"I've always had trouble with headaches as a kid. Normal migraines is what my parents always thought. As I got older sometimes the headaches were so bad my vision was blurry, and I'd just have to stay in a darkroom till it was gone. About nine months ago when your sister came to Thailand she was my live in."

Moving her toe in the frozen earth below her for a moment Faith gathers her thoughts before looking up again.

"About a week after she had been staying with me I ended up blacking out. Annie took me to the hospetil and come to find out I had a tumor in my brain about the size of a golf ball. The Dr. didnt understand how I was still alive seeing as it had been there for a while. So I ended up going into sugary and having it removed. We thougth they got it all and for the last 7 months things had been really well. Than a month ago my heackahes had come back. I wasn't blacking out or anything but the pain of the headaches were back, and sometimes they hurt even more than before. So I went back to the Dr and had more test run. It would seem they didnt get all the tumor out that first time. How that happend I dont know, but the medical field in Thailand lacks the skills and tools."

Letting out another deep breath looking up at the twinkling starts.

"So, I came here with Annie because the resources in the US are so much better to have the tumor removed for a second time. Annie told me the best place to recover would be here at the ranch and she wanted to give back the hospitality that I had shown her. Knowing her sister in law wouldn't mind. She even said there was a Dr. on site here so if I needed one."

Looking at Sparky and searching his eyes for a long moment Faith found comfort in them. For a reason she didn't know when she had just met him but it was there.

"Now, I want to try and live my life each day and a time savoring what I can. Going in for the brain surgery for a second time there is alot of scar tissue from the first time, and its tricky. I could die from it. I just have to trust my life is in God's hand and live each day like its my last. Though I addmit, I am scaried more than I let on."

Katie's eyes widen just a little as she listing to Rick. What he said made sense but still, it was a bit surprised what he wanted Jason to do.

Even if they didn't mean to brand us, its still there and it doesn't change the Agency knowing who we are. I guess we will just cross that bridge when we come to it.

Leaning back on the bed again Katie just lets her eyes fall shut. She felt so tired, maybe rest right now WAS the best thing.

Just watching the tv for a long moment Ryan listens to what Eli says but dosnt reply right away. She had known for a long time something was wrong with her brother. She could get the vibes from him, and even after all these years could read him like a book. She just hadnt said anything because she was trying to respect his privacy. But now he was mentioning he would be going back and she wasn't even sure why.

Turning her head a little to look at her brother Ryan just studys him for a moment before nonchalantly inquiring.

"Why would you want to go back to Florda Eli? You have me, a home, food everything you could want. Not to mention a job easy working at one of the shops. I wouldn't mind if you stayed anyways."

Unspoken

Bret rolls his eyes. "I didn't mean everyone but me knew you had a job. I meant any other husband with any brains will know that his wife has a second job!"

He takes a step closer to Charlotte, gesturing with his hands. "I don't care what color fingernail polish you got and I don't care what brand hotdogs you get from the store. But you'd think that if you went out and got a second job, you'd have the decency to tell me about it, instead of hiding it!"

He snatches the paper back from her. "At a nightclub! What were you thinking?!" His temper rises with his voice. "Of all places, you had to choose a nightclub! 'Hey, Bret, what's up?' 'Oh, nothing, just my pregnant wife is singing at a nightclub without my knowledge.'"

Throwing the paper back down, he starts to stalk away, then turns around again. "You didn't want to make me feel bad. So instead of talking to me about finances, you decide it would be easier just to hide a job from me. Were you ever going to tell me? Or were you just going to find out what a fool I really am to be so blind? I'm your husband, Charlotte! I have a right to know about these things. This isn't just something little that doesn't matter! It isn't the same as 'Oh by the way I bought a new dress.' We're talking about a job and our family's income."

Bret pauses, staring Charlotte in the eye. "And you deliberately hid that from me."

It hurt. It hurt deeply and Bret felt betrayed. If only she'd told him. If only she'd discussed it with him. If he'd known their finances were so bad when he was in the hospital, he would have figured something out with her, and he might not have minded her taking on a second job for a while. But at least he would have been in on it. At least he would have had a chance to give his opinion and help make the final decision. But instead, it had been hidden from him.

Spinning on his heel, he heads to the kitchen, limping as his leg throbs. Arriving to the tiled floor, his foot hooks a chair leg, cranking his knee. Already in enough pain, Bret lets out a howl. Too angry to care, his good leg swings around and gives the chair a swift kick. It flies away from the table, clattering on the floor and banging against the wall, breaking one of its legs.

Bret limps to the counter and grabs his car keys, then heads for the front door. Donning his leather jacket, he throws one last glare over his shoulder. "Don't wait up for me."


Sparky continues to walk, his pace much slower than normal on his evening rounds. He glances down at Faith, his eyes curious. "I got the time," he admits. "I'm not the greatest teacher in the world, but I could probably get you started at least."

He checks a gate then keeps on walking. "Takes time though. There's a difference between getting on a horse and going, and learning how to ride. If you want the first, I could throw you on a horse tomorrow. If you're interested in really riding though, I'm assuming you won't be around that long. You're going back to Thailand, aren't you?"


I know... the Agency scares me too. If it was just me, I wouldn't mind so much, but knowing they're after you too... I don't like that at all.

Rick heaves a deep sigh and turns back around to see Katie. "I know you don't like being in the dark, Katie, and I'm sorry. I just wanted to give you time to rest."

Jason looks to Katie, then back to Rick. "Tell us what you're planning and then we'll rest."

"Okay. I want you to blow something up for me."

Jason's eyebrows rise. "You what?"

"I want you to blow something up. Nothing big, but I don't want you spending your energy on that right now."

"Um... and why do you want me to do that?"

"I want to tape it. And I want to study how the item bursts. Before we can investigate your marks further, we need to understand how you work naturally. It's just something I want to see."

Jason eyes him suspiciously. "You don't think it's a brand, do you?"

Rick hesitates. "No. I know it seems to be, and I know the Agency shot you with something that caused the chain of events... but I don't think they knew you two would end up with a permanent mark. Just let it go for now, rest, and when you're both feeling better in a couple days, we'll continue the research."

Jason sighs, but gives in.
I'm too tired to care at this point. Let him do his thing. We'll find out what he means soon.
Thanks for hanging in there with me, Hero. I love you too.


Eli shuffles the deck of cards in his hands, leaning back in the living room chair. There was an awkward silence. There wasn't normally between him and his sister. But there was now, and he knew that she could tell there was something he wasn't saying. She was back on her feet, back to work, and he'd seen her race. Yet he still stayed. He had not gone back to Florida yet, and though he was living out of the same small duffel bag, he hadn't made mention to leaving either.

The tv was on, but Eli wasn't paying attention to it. Supper was undecided. They might do takeout Chinese. But for the moment, his mind was far away. He needed to tell her.

Glancing up, he catches Ryan's eye. The stare that looked back at him told him that she knew something was up but was respecting his privacy. "I suppose one of these days I better head back cross-country," he muses. "I think I've mooched off you long enough." A grin seeps out, showing that he knew Ryan didn't think of it that way. But there was still more... there was still more he wasn't saying.