Talk

*Katie nods to Jason.* "I think I'll be ok J. Go do what you need to do. I'll be here when you get back and I have your number if I need you." *Katie looks at Jay again.* "Ok we can talk I dont plane on running away."

*Rosetta wakes and walks out into the other room. Seeing Mick and Jeff up she smiles.* " You guys were always early wakers." *Going over to the coffee pot Rosetta pours a cup of coffee.* " If you guys dont mind I'd like to go see Katie before we leave. I just want her to know again we are prayin and rooting for her."

Tension

Jay can’t help but be taken aback by Katie calling him by his name, though he knows he deserves it.

Jason can feel the tension thick in the air. He’s never forgotten the look in Katie’s eye when she’d told him about her past and what had happened. Shoving personal feelings aside, he stands up, offering Jay a cordial handshake. “Jason Stevenson. Nice to meet you.”

Jay accepts the hand and nods. “Pleasure.”

The short exchange doesn’t take up much time, and the silence is back. Jay glances to Katie, his awkwardness increasing by the second. “I…I got here as soon as I could…I didn’t…I mean…” He sighs at himself. “Can we talk?”

Jason raises an eyebrow and looks to Katie, unafraid to voice his question. “You alright?”

Jay

*Jamie smiles at Con.* "Well thank you Con." *Lingering for alittle bit.* "well I guess I will see you back at TJY."

*Katie laughs at Jason.* "Sounds good." *Kidingly she throws her head back on the pillow. Opening one eye to look at Jason she bursts out laughing. As the door opens and Katie see who is is her smile fades. She looks from Jason back to Jay.* "Jay...what...what are you doing here?" *Katie saprises herself. She just called her father by his first name. She did, but she dident feel comfortable enough to call him dad. He maybe her father but for the last several years he hasent been there for her. A new feeling over comes her. Not sure how to feel.* "Jason...this is my father Jay."

Visitor

Mick can see that Rosetta is bothered, and only wishes he has a solution.
The party is broken up, and Con goes with Jamie, while the other three head to the hotel. Once there, Mick and Jeff claim one room, giving Rosetta the other.
The drive to Jamie’s takes just a little while, and it’s quiet. Con doesn’t offer a whole lot of small talk other than subjects of what’s been happening at TJY, as he keeps a wary eye out for anything or anyone on the way, taking his role seriously. Once they near her place, he retrieves his cell phone to call a cab.


The sun cannot be held back by the night, and slowly rises to the horizon to spread its light once more.

Wyatt tries to stretch out in his jeep, but even with the seat back, it’s difficult to get comfortable. He’s been awake all night, watching the hospital door, but nothing had happened. Today though…he had a hunch Jason would be back out again, and this time he’d find out just where he was going. Something was strange, and he’d gotten Reese’s permission to check it out. They couldn’t afford any slip ups now. Jason was smart, but he was hiding something.


Jason rolls over and groans a little, not wanting to wake up. But he sighs and forces himself to sit up, yawning and rubbing the sleep from his eyes. He heads out of the room to clean up and change clothes, and comes back still feeling drowsy. Seeing Katie awake, he grins and flops down on the bed next to her. “Is it time for a nap yet?”


Jay rolls his eyes at the cab driver and pays him with cash. It had certainly taken him long enough from the airport. This whole trip had been nothing but a disaster from beginning to end. Having only a small bag slung over his shoulder, he makes his way into the hospital, his nervousness increasing. After inquiring about where Katie is, he heads to the next level, wandering down the hall. He stops in front of the half-closed door and swallows hard. His mind had been reeling all night of what he would say, what he would do…and nothing seemed to be enough. What could he really say?
Taking a deep breath, he slowly opens the door and steps inside.

Jason sees someone entering and quickly sits up, ceasing his playfulness. Who was this man? Studying him for just a moment, he suddenly wonders if this is Katie’s father…the resemblance is definitely there. He lets his eyes fall back to Katie with question. Was this her dad? If so, did she want Jason to stay or leave?

Jay lets his bag slide off his arm and settle to the floor. He stares at Katie in the bed, his heart breaking. He hadn’t seen her in so long…why had it taken something like this for him to take the time to visit? Even if he had thought she would reject him, he should have tried. Emotions pool behind his eyes, and he forces his feet to carry him forward, stopping several feet from the bed, his hands tucked awkwardly in his pockets. He eyes Jason with slight surprise…he hadn’t known Katie had a boyfriend. Looking back to his daughter, he musters up a slight smile, unsure how he will be received. “Hi, Katie…”


Mick sets a box of donuts on the kitchenette’s counter and calls to Jeff and Rosetta. “I know, I know, I’m such a health nut when it comes to breakfast, but this is all the quickmart on the corner had. Sorry.”

Jeff laughs and takes a donut for himself. “Mm, chocolate? Apology accepted.”

Mick rolls his eyes as he grins. “You two want to go back to see Katie one more time this morning before we go, I assume?”

Keep Going

*Katie smiles. Just was so thoughtful at times.* " As long as you come back J I think I will be ok. We will see how I feel in the morning." *KAtie knows the meeting is about what happended with the sheriff but dosent bother Jason with the question now that he is sleeping. Katie leands her head back aganst the bed and drifts off to sleep. Katie dreams about her Aunt and Mick, and Cindy and Wes..than she comes to herself. In front of her stand 2 men, Her crossroad. The sure safe path, or the long twisted hard road. Katie shoots up from bed glancing over at Jason. He was sleeeping so peacefuly. For a long while Katie watches Jason before she drifts off to sleep again.*

*Rosetta sighs and trys to keep her smile and nods.* "Ok we go back tomarrow than. Probley should let Austin know what going on so he is on high alirt." *Rosetta's face drops a bit.*

*As Jamie stands she smiles at Con. She knows her can make it home ok by herself but would never decline Con's company.* "Sure, I'd like that Con. I have a bit of a ways to go so it might be nice to have someone come along." *Jamie stands and smiles at the group.* " It was nice meetin you all. I hope to see you all again, and are safe. I will keep praying."

Night is closing

Jason laughs. "So who's here to protect me when my own bodyguard is holding me hostage?"
As Katie moves, he lifts his arm, stretching it out as it has grown a little numb, but he doesn't mind. He turns to look at Katie for a moment, feeling more content than he has in a long time.
Though spending most of his time here lately, it had taken until tonight to realize that Katie really did want and need his presence, and that in itself was enough to keep him here.

He cocks his head slightly. "You owe me no thanks, for anything, Katie...you should know that by now."
For just a brief instant, he remembers the moment out on the hotel balcony, and he bites his lip as the feelings return without warning. Swallowing hard, he sits up, trying to stop his face from reddening. Thankfully, the nurse's entrance provides a distraction, and he gives her a sheepish grin in reference to the bed. "Thanks. I've been curling up in that chair enough lately that I expected to wake up one morning and not be able to straighten out. I'll probably take you up on that bed this time."

When the nurse leaves, he's still sitting with Katie, and turns to her with an encouraging smile, setting aside any awkwardness he'd experienced just moments before. "Sounds like you're doing pretty well." Though the doctors haven't been too optimistic about Katie being able to walk again, Jason holds on to hope for her sake. "You'll be up and around in no time now." He gives her hand a squeeze and gets up, going over to the other bed and dramatically flopping down on it, his eyes already closed. "Tomorrow I got a meeting to go to" he mumbles sleepily. "But I won't go until someone else is here if you don't want to be alone." He lets his head sink into a pillow. "Night, Katie."


Mick looks at the others at the table with concern. "I don't like this..."

Con frowns. "Me either. I know you guys might want to spend more time with Katie, but if I were you, I'd get back to the ranch tomorrow. I'll have to talk to Reese about whether he wants me to stick around here for a while or not too."

Mick nods in agreement after receiving a look of approval from Jeff as well. "It won't do us any good to be scattered all over the place...not right now." He sets a hand on Rosetta's shoulder. "We should probably head to the hotel now just in case someone is close by."

Con tosses Mick the keys to the car. "Go ahead and take the car. I'll get a cab to take me to my place and I'll use my own car until I know whether or not I'm staying." He turns to Jamie. "Or if because of this, you want company on the way home, I can come along, and get a cab from your place. I don't want anyone from the Agency mistaking you as part of this gang."

Sleep

*As Katie stays snuggled with Jason the time seems to pass so fast. Dinner comes and goes the new movie playing. Hating to see the night end Katie thinks for a moment.* " I think I will hold you hostage. Its more fun that way." *Giving a silly grin Katie sits up a bit to let Jason move his arm.* "J, thank you." *Katie sits back.*

*As Katie sits back a nurse walks into the room.* "Well Miss, tomarrow you start your tharipy if your up to it. The Doc said you grained alot of your strength back fast. But be warned your gonna feel alot more pain befor this gets better. But it will be ok. Seem to me you have a good friend who is helping you as well. That always makes things easyer." *The nurse smiles at Jason than nods to the other bed in the room.* " That bed has fresh sheets on it. Your more than free to sleep in it if you like. More comfortable than that chair and because f the situation here we wont put another pashent in here. So its all yours." *The nurse checks Katie's charts than heads out of the room.*

*Rosetta sits down slowly and looks around the room.* " I...I dont know who it was but I can guess. All they said was " The war has started. The end is near, are you prepaired?" and than they hung up. My hunch says its the Agency."

Hostage

Jason chuckles as he takes the menu. "There's just so many choices, I don't know if I can pick." He grimaces. "I think you're right...the chicken sounds the best."
With his free arm he calls down to have their food brought up, and it's not long before their meal is there.

With a movie playing on tv, talk is minimal, but the atmosphere is peaceful. Once supper is through, Jason winds up kicking off his shoes and settling back with Katie again, his arm once again around her in an attempt to keep away her fears, only moving when the nurse comes in to check on Katie or readjust anything.

As the evening becomes late and another movie comes on, Jason finds his eyelids growing heavier and heavier. He rubs Katie's arm gently. "Psst...if I don't go claim that chair in the corner here pretty soon I'm gonna fall asleep right here." He offers a drowsy grin. "Think I can have my arm back, or are you going to hold me hostage?"


Mick looks up as Rosetta comes and sits down, and he can immediately see that something is wrong. "Rosetta, what is it? Who just called?"

The Phone Call

*Katie smiles as Jason hopes in the bed next to her and puts his arm around her. Katie always felt so safe in Jason's arms. He could chase away her fears in a blink of an eye. No matter his faults or how Katie felt sometimes, Jason was perfect. Katie looks at her little menu.* " So what wonderful hospetal food should we have tonight." *Katie rolls her eyes.* " Actully the fryed chick and corn with bread sounds good to me. How about you?" *Katie hands the menu over to Jason and she leans her head aganst his shoulder. Katie was happy to have Jason near. She was truly happy to have him as a friend.*

*The chatter at the restront is light and cheerful dispite the morbit feeling at the hospetal. Rosetta was happy to have seen Katie and known she was ok. The laughing, joking and storytelling play on late into the evening. Rosetta cell phone rings. Decieding it could be someone from the ranch she excuses herself and heads to the front of the restront Answering her phone.* "Hello?" *As Rosetta listens to the caller on the other end her smile fades and face goes pale.*" Who is this? Hello? Hello?" *Rosetta closes her phone and walks slowly back to the table siting down.*

The day isn't over yet

Jason immediately sees the fear in Katie’s eye and is taken aback for just a moment by her pleading. He honestly hadn’t thought his presence meant that much. He enjoyed being here with her, no doubt…but he hadn’t known it was that important to Katie.
His heart breaks all over again as he sees her tears. How could he have been so selfish? So what that he had an unresolved situation to deal with? So what that his mom was getting married? They were his problems, and he had no right to let them create a negative mood swing when he was supposed to be here for Katie.

As she looks away from him, he frowns. She should know better than to hide herself like that. She was going through something that no one should have to, and if anyone had a right to cry, she did.

He approaches silently, and reaches down with a gentle hand tucked under her chin to turn her face back to him. He gazes at her for a moment, before brushing away the tear with his thumb. “A promise is a promise…I’m not going to leave you alone.”

After several quiet seconds, he makes up his mind. A quirky grin forms and he reaches down to place his arms underneath Katie, and gently moves her over in her bed. Claming the now-empty space, Jason slides in next to her on top of the sheets, letting one leg hang off the edge, and slinging an arm around her shoulders for her to lean back against. “Now…” he grabs the television remote. “We’re going to find a movie to watch and…” he picks up the room phone as well. “…we’re going to get supper brought in here for the both of us, because I’m not near ready to give up on this day yet.”

Mask

* once again as Jason mentions not staying a look of fear pass in Katies eyes.* "No Jason...please you promised you wouldent leave me." *Desparation plays in Katie's voice. There was an unvoiced fear. One of the last times she had been in a real hospetal was when her mother and brother passed away. This braught a fear to Katie that she couldent explain.* " I care for you even when I am here to cover up my own fears. I do need you Jason." *Katie looks down at her hands, and down at her lower body in a cast a single tear forming in her eye.* " I'm really not that strong you know. Your not the only one who can put masks on." *Katie turns her head away from Jason. Embarssed that she was crying over nothing. But the truth was she was scaired, lonly, and dident know what was going to happen in her life. Everything was so messed up right now.*

Needed?

Jason slowly enters Katie’s room, not settling down into a chair just yet. Why he suddenly felt awkward, he wasn’t sure. It just seemed he was the outsider, and if everyone else was there, was his presence really wanted?
He offers a slight grin and shakes his head. “No…I haven’t eaten since lunch, but I was just thinking about it. I bet you’ll be brought your supper soon. I should go down to the cafeteria and get something for myself.” He stops and looks at he for a long moment. “Here you are, the one in the hospital bed, and you’re still taking care of me. Shouldn’t it be the other way around?” He glances downward, smirking at himself. Katie was so strong in any situation…and he continually failed at staying on top of things…if anything made him feel just a bit worthless, that would do it, let alone wondering if he was really even needed here. “I don’t have to stay the night here if you don’t want me to,” he mentions casually as he goes to retrieve some money for supper from his bag.

WOW

"Oh wow...thats great about Wes and Cindy. Jason never mentioned it to me." *Katie looks to the door wondering if Jason even new. The sicking feeling she has in her tummy told her he hadent but does now.* "Wish them the best for me." *Katie smiles.*

*Katie gives everyone a hug and a kiss as they leave and tells them she will see them in the morning. Jamie acepts the invitation and heads out with the others.*

*Look up at Jason in the doorway Katie nods.* " You can come in and sit down so we cant talk." *Katie smiles.* " They maybe my family, but I have always felt strange around them. Ohh..have you had anything to eat J? You need to remember what Rick said! For me?"

News

Mick grins at Rosetta and puts his arm around her. “I think the ranch will be just fine…of course, leaving it in the hands of a lovesick fool is always as little risky.” He chuckles and winks at Katie. “Wes and Cindy have been engaged for two weeks now too.”


Though out in the hall, Jason can hear what Mick has just said. For some reason, the news hits him a little harder than he thought it would. His mom had mentioned Wes…but he still hadn’t believed it was that serious. His mom was getting married? She hadn’t called him…was he one of the last to find out? He swallows hard, unsure how to process this new information. Things had already changed so much…the past…what he had…it really was gone forever.


Con’s eyes widen a little at Rosetta’s question and Katie’s reaction, though he finds humor in it, already having known the situation. He shakes his head in response to Rosetta. “Don’t know…Reese has a couple guys working on the case…haven’t found anything yet. As far as Jason’s assailant goes, whoever it was has completely disappeared, so we don’t even have anything to go on from that perspective. Jason’s pretty sure it’s the Agency…Reese thinks it’s someone local Jason may have helped take down at one point or another. We’re just not sure.”
He pauses in thought. “The hotel should be fine. I’ll go back to my own place, so the three of you, Rosetta, Mick, Jeff…you guys can stay in the suite and I can bring you back here in the morning.”

It’s a while later that the four tell Katie goodnight. They decide to go get a bite to eat then head over to the hotel. Con suggests they stop by the café downtown, and he invites Jamie to join them.

Jason makes himself scarce as the gang leaves, suddenly feeling like the odd man out. When it’s quiet though, he eventually makes his way back to Katie’s room and leans on the doorway, unsure if she wants more company, or would rather be left alone. “Anything I can do for you?”

Connected?

*Jamie pokes Con in the side to get him to let go.* "Pst with out you around everything is quiet and calm." *Jamie cant help but laugh.*

*Katie cant help but laugh at Jamie and Con.. After a moment she looks back to Mick, Rosett, and Jeff.* "How long were you guys staying?"

*Rosetta smiles back at Katie.* "Probley a day or too, than head back. I dont want Wes burning anything down while we are gone or the others. I guess this is a good test for them though to see if they can handle stuff. Something tells me that change is in the winds." *Rosetta looks to Mick and smiles.*

"Well I was thinking. The Hotel Jason and I were staying at Is still payed for and no one is using it right now seeing as I am here and Jason has been staying with me. Maybe you guys can stay there till you go? If you think that would be ok Con?"



*Rosetta quirks an eyebrow.* " You and Jason were staying in a hotel along? Did you get married and not tell me?"

*Katie cant help but get a look of saprise on her face while Jamie laughs in the background at the question. For a moment Katie cant talk than finds her words again.* "Aunt Rosetta, I think I would tell you if I did something like that. But anywas someone was after Jason and I was hired at his Bodyguard. so thats why there is a hotel."

*Rosetta seems to relax for a moment understanding now what Katie was talking about. Rosetta looks to Con for a moment.* " DO you think....do you think Katie's accident has to do with what happend to Jason?"

Hey

Jeff smiles and shakes his head. “I’m only glad it’s just the car that’s gone.”

Con chuckles and returns Katie’s hug. “I’ve missed you too, Kat. Hasn’t been the same at the ranch without you, and a phone call a day for Reese just hasn’t quite cut it.”

Mick offers Katie a smile of encouragement. “Don’t worry. The best part of this trip is seeing you. We’ll get to meet your new friends in no time.”


When Jamie comes in, Con gives her a casual salute. “Hey, Jamie!” Receiving a hug, he returns it lightly with a pat on the back. He slings an arm around her shoulders, giving her a teasing headlock. “Long time no see. I trust you’ve been keeping everyone in line back at the office.”

Ages

*Katie smiles.* "Hey Uncil Jeff. Your dont need to worry I'm ok. My poor car isent. but I am. I wanted you guys to see it too. It was sooo nice." *Turning alittle Katie puts her rose Jason gave her in some water and sets it next to Wyatt's flowers on the nightstand.*

*As Con enters the room Katie's smile gets even bigger.* "Big Bro!!!" *Katie reachs up to pushes Con's hand out of her hair.* "Hey Hey I look like crap as is...wanna not mess up the hair." *Reaching up Katie hugs Con the best she can.* "Its good to see you. I've missed you." *Katie looks around the room.* "I've misses you all. I just wish you guys were here on better turns. I could show you around. Introduce you to my new friends." *Katie lets out a small sigh. She dosent know why but a feeling of leting everyone down comes over her. She wished she could do so much and she couldent.*

*There is another soft tap on the door as Jamie enters. She looks around the room.* "I'm sorry I dident relize you have guests."

*Katie smiles up at Jamie.* "Its ok. Jamie this is my Aunt Rosetta, her feonsay...." *Katie stops for a moment and looks from Mick to Rosetta and smiles.* "...Mick, and this is my Uncil Jeff. Well you already know Con too."

*Jamie nods and gives alittle wave.* "Hi! Nice to meet you all. I work with Katie back at TJY." *When Jamies eyes meet Con's her smile gets bigger as her face turns red.* "Hey there killer. It feels like ages." *Jamie gives Con a hug.*

Greetings

Jason grins a little, though his mind has taken a different turn. Great, Jason…now you’re hiding from Katie, too. What is with you? You ARE being silly and you know it. Why can’t you just admit what’s going on? What are you afraid of?
Jason shakes his head and gives a little chuckle. “You haven’t pried. You’ve just worried about a friend.”

He looks up quickly as the others arrive, and he stands from the chair, suddenly feeling just a little awkward. He raises his eyebrows to Rosetta, his face turning just a little red. “Well I don’t know what Con’s told ya, but I haven’t done anything out of the ordinary. I’d say your niece is the one who deserves a compliment…she’s a real trooper.” He doesn’t dare look in Katie’s direction, for fear of turning even more red. Thankfully the conversations that spring up provide a change of subject.

Jeff plops down in a chair by Katie, forcing himself not to let his worry show through, though it pained him to see her like this. “Hey, kiddo.”

Jason turns as a new form appears in the doorway and smiles as Con appears. “Well, well, well, look what the cat dragged in.”

Con aims a finger at him teasingly, giving his younger friend a hearty slap on the back. “Lookin’ good, Hotshot.” He turns his attention to Katie, pasting a big smile on his face. “And I thought Jason was the troublemaker. Girl, you do know how to make a guy worry, you know that?” He approaches to rough up her hair. “How’s little sister doing anyhow?”

Jason watches the others interact for several moments, and slowly, slowly backs out of the room to find a chair in the hall.


Jay wakes with a start as another call comes over the airport intercom. He rolls his eyes as he sees the time. The minutes seemed to be passing slower and slower every hour. He was never going to get out of here.

Thx

*Katies own face turns red as she now feel stupid for making a fool of herself.* " Ok so I dident REALLY think you were capable of selling it, but it was just a passing thought. Well Ia m happy you dident sell it. and for now I can let it drop. But Jason know this I can tell its simply not nothing. If it truly was a minor thing you wouldent be so hesatent to not tell me. But I respect your privecy and have pryed to much for one day."

*Rosetta knocks on the door before entering.* " Hey you."

*Katie turns her head and it totaly saprised by Rosetta, Mick and Jeff's entrince.* " HI!! what are you guys doing here?"

*Rosetta smiles and comes over her her neice a hug.* " Well seeing as your siting in the hospetal right now, we though we would come see how you were and though ya might need some comapny. Though Con has told us Jason has been doing a great job." *Rosetta looks to Jason for a moment.* "Thank you Jason for everthing."

*Katie looks to Jason and smiles.*

Apology

Jason’s eyes widen as Katie talks, his face paling slightly as he sinks down into the chair next to her bed. He just stares at her in shock, even when she changes the subject, hardly hearing what else she says. At first he wants to be upset. How could she think he’d do something like that? That guitar was one of the most precious gifts he’d ever received. Did Katie really think he was capable of selling it? But then…he suddenly realizes the words he’s chosen to say. He was incredibly evasive all day…if he were in her shoes, he probably would think the same thing. He couldn’t blame her one bit for her accusation, and he begins to see just what a mess he’s created.

Unable to help himself, Jason leans forward, resting his arms on the bed and burying his face. His shoulders begin to shake, slightly at first, then uncontrollably. Starting to have a hard time breathing, he lifts his face just enough to reveal his reddened face and eyes filled with tears as his laughter is contained in silence. Throwing his head back he sinks back into his chair. Covering his eyes with his hand, he is unable to stop laughing, though keeping it silent begins to deplete his oxygen supply and he gasps for breath. He tries to speak once, but it starts all over again until he has to lean forward and stare at the floor, forcing himself to quit. Finally calming his breathing, he looks up at Katie, wiping his eyes with the back of his hand. “Oh, Katie…” Another small laugh escapes. “I’m so sorry. I had no idea I’d given you such a bad impression about what was going on.” He shakes his head and takes a deep breath, his sides aching. “In an attempt to simplify things I just made one of the worst messes ever – it’s entirely my fault.” Yet another laugh makes its way to the surface as he replays the morning in his mind. “First I get called out by a county sheriff, then I disappear for half the day, then I come back without all my stuff…” He has a hard time containing more laughter, and reaches out to take Katie’s hand in his, giving it a squeeze. “It’s not at all what it looks like, and I did not sell my guitar. I don’t owe gangsters any money, and I’m not wanted by the police.” He shakes his head, and wipes his eyes again. “I’ve done a right good job of making a fool out of myself, that’s for sure, and I do apologize.” He runs a hand through his hair. “At least I looked good for the occasion.” Still shaking his head, he sighs deeply with amusement. “What am I going to do with you, hmm? I can’t get away with anything. But you have absolutely nothing to worry about, okay? It’s nothing you need to think about, and if my guess is right, by tomorrow it will all be over. Trust me when I say to forget it, because it’s most certainly not as big a deal as I accidentally made it out to be. Come to think of it, it’s downright silly." For just a brief moment, something passes through his eyes so fleetingly that it would not be caught by the untrained focus...but it's a strange look of subdued hope almost, maybe a hint of melancholy, and just ever so slightly something that hints of continued hidden truth out of fear. How real was his laughing fit? "So just clear your mind, and one day when I can face the embarrassment, I’ll tell you all about it. For now, chock it up to a man's foolishness.”

Sold

*Katie looks at Jason studding his face again. Another lie.* " You sold it dident you J? I dont understand why? What kind of trouble were you in that you needed to sell such a wonderful gift. You could of asked for help and anyone would of helped you." *Katie lets out a long sigh* "Yes J, I did. Very much so. I still have the tape Con gave me of yours. Your voice, and the way you play its just so...magicle." * Katie leans her head back as she hears Jason's voice and the music in her head. Finally as if waking from a dream she looks at Jason again.* " Your hair looks good." *She says with a smile.*

Airport

Con drops the other three off at the front door of the hospital and goes to park the car. Mick reaches out to take Rosetta's hand with reassurance, and Jeff trails behind, letting them go ahead. Once inside, the nurse tells them which floor and room number Katie is in.


Jason's face reddens slightly at Katie's question, despite him trying to cover up his hesitance. He just couldn't pull it off with her like he did with other people. "Oh, I left it over at...Con's place...with the rest of my stuff." A quick glance away from Katie's eyes proves that once again he's not given the truth. "I didn't know you liked it that much...." He'd been playing in the evenings for Katie, but hadn't thought much of it. He shrugs. "So...did you have a good time with Wyatt? Anyone else stop by? I went by the office and Laura said she was hoping to come by tonight...I think some people don't want to bother you too much, so they haven't been too quick to come down here, though I told them I thought you'd enjoy some company off and on."


"Oh come on!" Jay moans in frustration at the young woman behind the counter. "I need to get there tonight!"

"I'm sorry, sir, but there were complications with the plane and we were forced to keep it grounded. The fastest flight out of here to Nevada I can get you leaves at three in the morning."

Jay rubs his forehead as a headache forms. He'd never experienced such hassles at an airport before. "I'm...I'm sorry. It's just...I'm trying to get to my daughter who's in a hospital up there and I'm desperate."

The young woman looks at him with sympathy. "I really am sorry..."

"I know." Jay sighs, giving up. "Just do the best you can to get me out of here as soon as possible." He turns away to and find a chair to sink into.

^.^

*Rosetta waits in antisapation in the car clinging tight to Micks hand. She is exspecting the worst in hopes that it wont be that bad.*

*Befor Con leaves Katie grabs his hand more panic filling.* "Ok I will but why....why wouldent Jason come back?" *Katie's mind was still foggy from the pain killers and as hard as she tryed to sort everything out she become more confused. Everyone was running circles around her.*

*Katie wakes again and smiles at the gift Jason gave her.* " Your flowers always mean so much to me Jason. I love them." *Looking around Katie cant find Jason's guitar.* "J? Where is your guitar I was hoping you could play more for me tonight. It helped me feel so calm and at peace." *Katie scans Jason's body languge and his feelings. Something still wasent right. Katie still coudent put her finger on it, it was driving Katie crazy playing with her emotions.*

Acting

Lunch at the ranch is brief when Con announces that a plane is ready and waiting as soon as they get to the airport. By late afternoon, the Nevada airport is in view, and once there, Con takes over to drive a waiting vehicle to the hospital.


Wyatt chuckles. "You could never look like crap, even if you tried." He quirks an eyebrow at her comment about not pushing anyone away. "...and...you're actually capable of that?"
He shakes his head as she speaks of Jason. "He's always distant." Biting his tongue, he reroutes his answer in a more appropriate manner. "No...I don't know anything other than the call he was on earlier seemed pretty intense, and I didn't think it had been decided that he'd switch over to staying at Con's place instead of the hotel. I'll have Laura pick your stuff up for you if you want."
Wyatt stays as long as he can, until work calls. Sighing, he rises and bends over to give Katie a kiss on the forehead. "I'll come back tomorrow, okay? But if Jason doesn't come back, call me and I'll come tonight."

It's late afternoon before Jason shows up again, and he's since changed clothes and gotten a much needed haircut. He cracks Katie's door to make sure he's not barging in on anyone, and slips inside, a smile on his face. As far as he's concerned, no one will even question him about his whereabouts if he can control his body language well enough that everything is normal. He's brought with him his bag to spend the night again if needed, though not his guitar this time.
Approaching Katie's bed, he takes his hand from behind is back, revealing a rose he'd picked up for her. He glances to the bouquets that Wyatt had already brought, and offers Katie a wry grin. "Afraid I can't stand up to a flower competition, but I wanted to thank you for putting up with me."

Happen to know

*Rosetta hangs up the phone with Jay.* " Jay is gonna be taking the next flight to Navada." *Walking back into the kitchen Rosetta takes over the soup and starts some cheese smawitches.*

*Katie cant help but giggle at Wes comment.* "Meh I probley look like crap and thats ok. I think i am sapsto. I'm deturmed to get out soon but I know that wont happen. I am bound to walk again too. I miss you guys, and want to work by your guys side again...So that and trying not to push people away is my modavation." *Katie smiles. Katie looks up at Jason.* "What where...J." *Its to late Jason is already out the door. Look back at Wyatt Katie smiles.* "He's been acting really strange...distine in a sence happen to know anything about that?"

Today

Jay sits in stunned silence, the work he'd just been doing, completely forgotten. He finds himself sitting on the floor, feeling numbed by the emotionally driven images of his baby girl. "Oh, no," he whispers. He puts a hand to his mouth, unsure of what even to do. But he doesn't have to think long. "I'm going to see her," he states decidedly. "I'm going to get the next flight out of here...if you see her before I do, let her know I'm coming..." He ends the conversation with a brief goodbye, then hangs up the phone. Getting to his feet, he leaves the paper and iced tea mess. "Jess! Come down here, we need to talk. I've got to go to Nevada...today."


Wyatt grins. "Things at TJY? Boring without you around there." He winks at her. "We're supposed to ask you how you're doing, not the other way around." He studies her face, realizing just how well she's taken the news about her condition...would she ever cease to amaze him? "What about you? Hospitals are nasty, but you're looking pretty good, if I do say so myself..." A mischievous look sparks in his eye. "Of course...you always look good to me."

Jason enters the room, but skids to a halt when he sees Wyatt. He has to take just a second to redirect his train of thought. "Oh, hi, Wyatt. You gonna be here long?"

Wyatt raises an eyebrow. "I was thinking about it."

"Alright...." Jason moves to pick up his bag and guitar. "Um, Katie, I'm going to take this stuff over to Con's place and....and do some other running around. I'll be back in just a bit."

Flowers

*Rosetta lets out a long sigh. Trying not to beat around the bush with Jay.* "Jay, Its Katie. She went to Navada for a job and there was an accident. She is alive but not in pritty shape." *Rosetta goes into more detail leting Jay know what happend and what was going on. Leting him know where Katie was if he wanted to see her.*

*Katie scoffs to herself easyer said than done.*

*As Katie sits and eats her foor she looks up and see Wyatt.* "Heya. Ya I am up to it. Anything to stop eatinh this nastly hospetal food." *Katie cant help but smile as she takes the flowers from Wyatt and smells them.* "They are pritty Wy thank you. So how has everyone been back at the office?"

strange behavior

Jay stops mopping up his mess as he hears his sister's voice. "Rosetta?" He frowns. They hadn't talked in a long time...why would she be calling...and why did she sound nervous? "What's wrong?"


Jason's shoulders drop just a little at Katie's response. "Alright....I'll go find someone about getting you something to eat...." On his way out, he pauses in the doorway, turning back around. "Don't worry about it Katie....please try to forget about this morning. I really do want it to just be water under the bridge." Not waiting for a reply, he heads out into the hall, flagging down a nurse.

It's not much later that a nurse brings in some food for Katie, apologizing for the delay, and completely embarrassed that Katie had been overlooked. She tries to make up for it by letting her know that she smuggled in some chocolate pudding from the kitchen without the cook knowing about it.
Time passes, and Jason still doesn't return, but Wyatt shows up in the doorway with another bouquet of flowers and a smile. "Hey, you're awake." He enters and sets the flowers down on the table, turning a chair around to straddle so he can talk with Katie. "Saw Jason down the hall on the phone deep in conversation so I figured I could squeeze in a few minutes with you, if you're up to chatting."

If Life Was

*Rosetta let the silence linger for a while.* "Hey big bro its been a while. How are ya?" *Rosetta trys to stall all she can but wonders if her voice gives her away.*

*Katie looks down at the cast around her low body.* "Jason honesly...something could go wrong..I cant walk for goodness sake what alse can happen to me now?" *Katie shakes her head and grumbles.* "Its not forgoten Jason. If life was only that easy." *Katie lays her head back again feeling totaly exsausted.* "I'ma rest a while till you get back."

Mess

Jay tosses several bills to the side and digs under a pile of tax paperwork, trying to find the ringing cordless phone. "Jess! Where's the phone?" he yells.

"You had it last!" Jessica calls from the upstairs bedroom.

Jay's elbow bumps his glass of iced tea. The drink goes everywhere, splattering onto papers, records and the tiled kitchen floor. "Aw man!" The phone rings again, and he rolls his eyes in frustration. This was not his day. Grabbing a towel, he finally spots the phone under a magazine on the counter. As he's kneeling on the floor trying to sop up his mess, he answers a little more tersely than intended. "Yeah, hello?"


Jason sees the hurt he just caused by a few simple words, and he lets out a groan at himself. He wasn't going to let subjects change that quickly. He'd been wrong and he knew it. "Katie, I'm sorry." He shakes his head, his face showing disapproval at his own action. "That was stupid. I just didn't....I'm not trying to hide anything, I just....it's.....complicated and...and..." He starts to pace in a small circle, his nervousness very unlike him, especially around Katie. "....it's really no big deal, even if someone thinks it is, and I don't want to make a mountain out of a molehill because everything could just go wrong, and I don't want anyone else involved, and I don't want anyone to know because then I'll have that to deal with, and who knows what would happen after that if it fell apart, and I don't want to deal with that, and it's all just stupid because I really shouldn't care at all, and it really shouldn't be bothering me, something like this is just..." He suddenly clamps his mouth shut, realizing how ridiculous he must sound. Turning, he rolls his eyes before looking at Katie again. He takes a deep breath, aiming for one route that he vows to stay on. "But it's over. It stopped with this morning, So...you have nothing to worry about and I have nothing more to say. It's forgotten."
He takes the opportunity to lead back into Katie's own subject change, smirking at her. "And they call this a place where they take care of people....don't even feed anyone." He quirks a smile. "I'll go give someone a hard time about it. Sit tight."

A simple Lie

*Rosetta thinks for a moment. Its been along time since she last talked to Jay and it wasent a plesent conversation but this was a differnt siuation.* " I can do it. Mick will you watch the soup while." *Rosetta heads for the phone and dial's Jay's number.*

*Katie looks at Jason her own saprise showing through. A simple lie and is stung worse than anything Katie had just been through. A hint of disapointment shows in her eyes.* " You dont have to lie to me J. When your ready to tell me I sapose you will. I just dident know we were hiding things from eachother" *Trying to changes the subject before she says anything alse she will regret Katie giggles alittle.* "Can ya see about bringing me something to eat on your way back? I havent eaten all day."

Lie

Jeff looks up at Rosetta grimly. "Yeah...someone should let Jay know...you can do it or I can. It's up to you."


Jason tries to laugh, but allows his forced smile to fade as Katie questions him. Instead of answering, he just stares at her for several moments. Why wouldn't he tell her? Why couldn't he do it? He felt almost silly.
As his eyes meet hers, there's suddenly something there that's never been before....something that shows whatever this subject is, is a very private part of Jason's life...something he's not used to sharing, even with Katie. And there's fear. As much as Jason despised it, it was there.
Remaining silent, he ambles to the window to look out, leaning against the frame. This whole thing was just stupid. There was no way any of it would happen...even if they had asked him to come back. A part of him deep down wanted to find thrill in this, but elements of logic, fear and reality held him back. And there was so much that could go wrong...there could be so many consequences if this thing continued. And yet...his determined spirit didn't want to let that win...he wanted to throw caution into the wind...but if he failed like he thought he would, his hope would have been for nothing. There weren't many areas in which Jason lacked confidence, but this was one, and it was holding him back. If he told anyone about this, he was just setting himself up for embarrassment.

He finally turns back around, hooking his thumbs in his pockets. "It's nothing...really. The sheriff just wanted to get some answers about yesterday." Jason can't believe he just lied, and his eyes automatically fall to the floor. "I, um...supposed I better call in to Reese and see what's on the agenda for today."

You cant Hide

*Katie lets out a small laugh* "Dont worry I promise I wont get up and walk away." *Katie rolls her eyes.* "And when you get bacl I'd like to know whats going on. Even if you dont wanna tell me." *katie smiles alittle. As Jason leaves Katie drifts off to sleep.*

*Rosetta stands and heads to the kitchen to make some lunch.* "Just let us know when Con, and ya I think Katie would like if you came Jeff." *For a moment Rosetta thinks than speaks up again.* "Should someone call Jay and let him know?"

*As Jason reenters Katie room she opens her eyes sencing Jason discomfort and distress.* " I'm doing ok. In a bit of pain but I guess thats to be exspected." *Katie leans her head back aganst the pillow for a bref moment.* "Guess you took longer than you though huh? So what was that all about?" *Katie coughs alittle.* "Dont tell me nothing, You know you cant hide from me J and you know it." *Katie gives Jason a silly grin.*

Strange Event

Jason smiles, trying to reassure Katie. He would tell her what was going on, but something holds him back. He'd much prefer if he could get this situation out of his hair and come out on the other side with his dignity still in tact, no matter the outcome. It was best that no one knew...he didn't want the situation to escalate any more than it had. He should have flat out told the sheriff he wouldn't go with him...but that would have only made things more difficult since the sheriff had been so determined. After this meeting though, he was confident they'd let him go with not so much as a 'thanks for coming' farewell - surely they wouldn't see any reason to call him back in after this. It was ridiculous that he'd get called in in the first place! From here on out, he'd just have to be more careful not to draw attention to himself...it was bad enough being embarrassed once, he didn't need it all over again.
"Everything's fine. No worries." He takes Katie's hand to give it a squeeze, seeing the slight fear behind her eyes. "I'll be back so quick you won't even know I was gone," he teases. "Don't go anywhere."


Con nods. "Alright. We can drive over to the airport here in a while then and get going."

Jeff thinks for a moment, then nods his gratefulness to Rosetta. "I'd like come along, if that's okay."


It's over two hours before Jason finally gets back to the hospital. He rides the elevator up to the second floor, trying to get his body language to portray that everything was fine. He had to get the shock to wear off, and quick. How had this happened?
He steps out into the hall and slowly goes towards Katie's room. It was eight o'clock...probably no one had come from TJY yet to check on her...he hadn't planned on being gone that long.
Pausing at the door, he takes a deep breath, trying to straighten out everything that had happened. He never would have expected the reactions he received. And they weren't going to let him go as easily as he'd hoped. Con had been right...but if there was one thing that scared Jason, this was it.

He enters Katie's room with a smile. "Hey you...how you doing?"

Hurry Back

*Katie sits up as Jason comes back into the room. A look on panic almost plays on Katie's face as Jason says he is going to leave.* "J...is everything ok? Will you be back soon?" *Katie searches Jason's face for answers.* "Ya...I..I should be ok. I'll just try and sleep some more. Just hurry back ok?" *Katie trys to smile.*

*Rosetta nods* "Ya I would like that. I dont think anyone alse besides Mick and I are going for now."

*Angel stands and goes over to Rosetta.* "Let Katie know we are thinking of her and praying for her."

*Wendy goes over to the mess hall wall and take down the picture of the ranch with 3 horses grazing.* "Can you give this to Katie for me? To hang on her wall." *Wendy hands the picture to Rosetta.

*Rosetta smiles.* "She will like that thank you." *Rosettta looks to Jeff.* "Would you like to come too?"

Unexpected Development

Jason hums quietly as the sun peeks over the horizon to send rays streaming into the room. His eyes closed, his fingers move automatically along the frets, skillfully picking out the strings to create the soothing melody.

It was strange to think that a couple weeks had passed already. Most of Jason's time had been spent in the hospital with Reese giving him time off, and not having protection elsewhere. Though he was daring to start moving around by himself, believing his assailant was lying dormant for now. If it had been Medridge's doing, that was the pattern. Strike to create fear, then back off.
He wondered sometimes if he was creating a rift with Wyatt, as much time as he was spending here with Katie, though nothing had been said. Friends from TJY often stopped in for visits...Katie was missed back in the office, and everyone hoped she would return, despite dismal doctor's reports.
Reese had given the OK yesterday for outsiders to see Katie, and Jason knew that Con would be coming with some of the others from Texas soon. He hoped that would help lift Katie's spirits some.

Finally drawing his playing to a close, Jason turns to see Katie awake. A smile forms. "Mornin', Sunshine." He sets his guitar to the side and flexes his hand...it had been a while since he'd played as much as he had lately. He stand and stretches, wandering over to Katie's bed. "How's my hero doing?"
A new voice interrupts them.

"Jason Stevenson?"

Jason looks up quickly to the doorway. A uniformed policeman was standing there, taking a casual but professional stance. Jason's eyes narrow slightly. It was awfully early for a sheriff to be here, and according to his badge, he was from the next county over. "Yes?"

The policeman nods and also gives Katie a nod of greeting. "I'm sorry to disturb you, but could I please have a word with you for just a moment?"

Jason's inner radar is heightened. Something felt strange. But he wasn't about to resist speaking with a cop before he knew for sure what it was about. "Um. Sure." He looks back down at Katie, throwing her a wink. "I'll be right back." He moves around the bed to follow the sheriff outside the room. They move away from the doorway, their voices muffled.

The sheriff's tone can be heard first, though only bits and pieces can be made out. "...meet...yesterday....mthing I wanted......called.....your intent..."

"...n't understand..." Jason sounds confused. "...what...means for...sure I can't...."

"...records...try to prove...with me...more about...future....break...a deal..."

As the two men shift back towards the door, the conversation comes to a close. "So I'll meet you downstairs and you can come with me to the station," the sheriff concludes.

"Um...yeah, okay." Jason watches him walk away, and tries to decide how to feel about all of this. It was completely unexpected. He never would have guessed that this would happen...not here, not now...not like this. But he'd have to play along if only to appease those who thought they knew what he had. If he played it cool, by tomorrow it will all have been forgotten. He might have been caught, but there was no way they'd keep him. Surely they wouldn't...
He reenters Katie's room, letting a grin show. "Hey, listen, I, uh, gotta go straighten out some things downtown with the sheriff. I shouldn't be long though...you be alright?"


Con cradles his coffee mug in his hand and looks between Mick and Rosetta. "Reese called me last night...TJY has offered their private jet for those of us who want to go see Katie. They feel the coast is clear now. I'm going, and I assume you two are. Reese said Katie's doing as well as can be expected. I guess Jason's been spending most of his nights at the hospital with her and everything has been okay. At any rate, we can go any time and be there this afternoon if you want."

Peace

*Katie eyes slowly opens as she hears Wyatt and Jason outside the door. There had been surveillance cameras put into the Hotel. Katie now new Wyatt saw what happend with Jason and her that night when they fell asleep on the coutch but she dident feel bad about it. Listing Wyatt more her eyes widen at his question. Why Wyatt, why at a time like this would you bring up that question. Katie listens intently to Jason's reply. A small smile on her face. Suddonly Katie remember what she needed to talk to Wyatt about. Katie's heart sank. She was stuck in the middle of a cross road and she could go 2 ways. She could chase after the guys she liked since she met him but was hurt by, or she could go down the safe path with the guy who liked her back but even though said he trusted her dident that much was easy to tell. Katie lets out a small sigh and her eyes close again. She would have alot of time on her hands to figure out the right path to follow.*

*As morning comes Katie's ears fill with Jason's voice and the sound of him struming away. A smile creeps on her face as she opens her eyes. Slowly turning her head she looks over at Jason. Katie dosent say a word but just listens the the music. It calms her soul. Her want to move around, it seems to almost bring her peace.*

Serenade

Mick agrees and helps Rosetta up as he stands. “Yeah. Jeff will want to know especially – he has quite a soft spot for his nieces and nephews.” He offers Rosetta his hand as he leads her out of the office and towards the mess hall.

Jason doesn’t force Katie away, but gives in, just holding her, wishing he could have protected her from this. If only he had answers for her. But instead of trying, he lets her question of why linger.
As she vows to walk, a hope stirs inside of him. This was the Katie he knew…if she could maintain that attitude, he had no doubt that she would walk, no matter what the doctors said. “You’ll do it, Katie,” he whispers. “I know you will.”
He can feel her starting to relax, and lets her lay back down, brushing her hair from her face. “Sleep now. You’re not alone.”


Cindy laughs. “It’s a deal. I bet you can cook a scrumptious meal.”
All through dinner, Cindy feels as if she’s in a beautiful dream that she doesn’t want to wake from. But the night must end sometime.
The drive back to the ranch is quiet, but the silence speaks louder than words, as Cindy’s fingers entwine Wes’ for the ride home. A parting kiss before heading to the bunk leaves her walking on air.


Reese comes by late in the evening to bring Jason some of his things to stay overnight. He goes to see Katie, but doesn’t wake her. Later, Wyatt and Laura come, but also let Katie sleep, though feeling better having at least seen her. Wyatt leaves a bouquet of flowers on the table for her and sends Laura out ahead of him, as he stays behind to speak with Jason.
“So you’re staying here the night?”

“Yeah…I don’t want her to be alone.”

“And you wouldn’t go back to the hotel if I said I’d stay?”

Jason quirks an eyebrow. “Your dad isn’t exactly comfortable with the thought of me there without a watchman. I’m safer here where there’s already some security.”

Wyatt withholds his sigh. “Look, Jason…I’ve been watching you and Katie the last couple weeks…you told me once there was nothing between you two. Is that really the truth?”

Jason straightens in defense. “What do you want me to say, Wyatt? Don’t you trust me?”

“Honestly? No,” Wyatt states bluntly. “You didn’t know surveillance cameras were installed in the hotel suite did you?”

Jason’s eyes widen. “What.”

Wyatt grits his teeth. “Dad didn’t think you should know, since you probably would have taken them down.”

Jason recalls the night he and Katie spent on the couch. Nothing had happened. It couldn’t have been more innocent. But in the eyes of someone dating Katie, it would have said a whole lot more. Jason throws up his arms. “You want to accuse me of something, go ahead. But don’t beat around the bush about it. If you think I’ve dishonored myself or Katie, just say it.”

Wyatt doesn’t accuse…he had promised to trust Katie and would continue to force himself to, despite all of the logic stacked against it. He stares Jason in the eye, searching for a long moment. Evidence or no, he wanted the truth. “Do you love her?”

Jason is taken so off guard that he blinks, and just looks at Wyatt for a long moment. Recovering quickly, he stares right back at him, pointing towards Katie’s room. “That woman in there has done more for me than I could ever repay. She means the world to me, and it breaks my heart to see her like this. The friendship we share is close.” His eyes narrow at Wyatt. “You can call it whatever you want to. If you think what I’ve just said is inappropriate or interferes with your own relationship with her, then I’m sorry. But the fact is that Katie is my very best friend.”

Wyatt lets the sudden silence linger. Jason hadn’t answered his question. Letting out a slow breath, he shrugs. “I’ll see you tomorrow, Jason. If anything changes, you know my number.” He turns around and walks down the hall, just a little slower than normal.

Jason sighs and closes his eyes, leaning back against the wall. Why did things have to be so complicated? He’d been good friends with Wyatt before all of his…what had he done wrong?


The night is long, and Jason stays in Katie’s room, settling down in one of the chairs with a blanket and pillow. In the early morning hours, he sends a soothing melody through the room, quietly singing and strumming his guitar strings. His mellow voice calms the atmosphere automatically, the notes of his guitar accompanying with a gentle rhythm.

The overnight nurse leans over from her desk so she can just see through the slightly open door of Katie’s room. She’d been listening to Jason sing for several minutes, and she herself was being drawn into the hypnotic song. As she continues to listen, her eyes suddenly widen and she picks up the phone. After dialing, she waits. “Yes…Sergeant Brown? I found him.”

I have too

*Rosetta nods as her head is still leaning on Mick's chest.* " Lets go break the news to the other. They should know Katie is apart of the ranch family."

*Katie fights aganst Jason not wanting to lay back down.* " Its was horrable J...I lost you, and My aunt, all my friends. I dont want to lose you guys I have to fight this." *Katie finally relaxes but dosent let Jason go as she shakes slightly.* " OH Jason...how could this happen, why?" *Finally Katie's crying stops.* " I swair Jason, I'm going to walk again. I'm going to work every day to do it. I have to." *Katie's eyes once again drift close. and her heads lays on the pillow.*

*Wes cant help but laugh* " And I am your knight in shinning armour." *As Wes cuts into his lobster tail he cant help but hold his smile. Every inch of liqued inside of him bubbles. He is so happy, so excited.* "Well I do love to cook. One of these nights I'll have to treat you out to Wes' Dinner and cook ya something good."

It's okay

Mick nods. “I know…but the future is never certain…we don’t know what’s in store for Katie yet….” He thinks for a moment, then agrees. “Things will be find here, no problem. We just have to wait for the OK to go.”


“Yeah…no, I don’t know yet.” Jason shakes his head as he talks on the phone with Reese. “Depends on how long she’ll have to stay. Hmm? No…I’m not sure. Thought I might take Con up on his offer….not right away, depending.” He pauses. “Yeah, swing by the hotel and pick those things up for me, will ya? And have Laura drop off the clothes here instead of there. I want to…hmm? ….yeah. It should be safe. Alright….yeah, call Con and tell him to let the others know… Right. I…” Jason stops his sentence short as he hears Katie. “Reese, I gotta go.” He hangs up and dashes back across the hall. His heart breaks all over again, seeing Katie sitting up and crying. Without hesitating, he goes to her and sits on the bed beside her, taking her in his strong arms. “Hey, shhh….Katie, it’s okay. You’re all right. Was it a bad dream?” He gently tries to lay her back down. “Just try to relax.”


Cindy hugs Wes tight, finally able to stop crying. As she sits back down, she looks down at her hand, the biggest smile on her face. “Wow,” she breathes. “I can’t believe it.” She looks up at Wes, her eyes dancing. “I feel like a fairytale princess.”
She laughs as the food arrives. “If you dare to claim culinary expertise as this, you can bank on doing all the cooking from here on out!”

Nightmare

*Rosetta still clings to Mick her tears starting to stop.* " I just feel so helpless Mick. Katie had her whole lige in front of her. She was so Excited and ready to go out and down things. This has to be crushing her. As soon as we can I'd like to go see her. Maybe the kids, and Angel, and Cindy can hold down the fort. We can bring BJ with us."

*As Katie lays still in bed her mind still races. The gun shot, the fire, someone pulled her out of the car but who? Katie dreams she is back at the ranch not being able to walk keeps her home bound. Looking up at a figure she asks what she can do to help only yo get a reply of nothing. "You did this to yourself" the voice tells her. " You dident even try. You gave up before you even started. You friend was there to help and you pushed him away. Now you lost him forever." *Katie shoots up from the hospetal bed giving a small scream. The tears, the emotions. Katie cant take it anymore her tears flow over. She wasent sure if she was crying for herself, for her pain, or for the pain this will put on others to have to take care of her. No matter what Katie had to get through this. She had to try and be stong. No matter how Katie tryed could couldent stop the tears.*

*Wes cant help but beam anymore. The tears now coming down his face. Slowly Wes fumles with the ring taking it out of the box and sliping it on Cindy's finger.* "Perfect fit." *Wes stands and embraces Cindy.* " Your wonderful. Thank you...thank you so much." *Wes sits back down in his char as the food comes to the table. Wes beams.* " Dinner is served I hope you like it I slaved over the stove all day." *A silly grin on Wes' face.*

Tears

Mick holds Rosetta tight as she cries, wishing he had the right words to say. "It's not your fault," he states with emphasis. "You know that. Katie made up her own mind to go, and we don't even know yet all the details. It was a terrible thing to happen, but it was NOT your fault." He slowly guides her into the other room, and eases down on the couch, still cradling her in his arms. "It's going to be alright. We're just going to wait and hear from Reese about any changes or when we can go see Katie." Mick plants a tender kiss on her head. "God's not going to let us down...we've been through things like this before, and we'll get through this too."


Jason reassures Katie with a squeeze to her hand. "I'm not going anywhere, Hero. You just sleep...rest now." As he sees her eyes drift shut, he slowly lets her hand go, letting it rest by her side. Standing up, he goes to the door to lean on the frame for a minute, taking a deep breath. This really was a nightmare. In his mind, he still sees Katie on the side of the road. He feels the horror all over again...her body mangled and bloody... He shuts his eyes for a moment, before heading across the hall to the bathroom. He splashes cold water on his face, trying to gain his strength back, but his body refuses to resist the emotional strain. Before he can stop it, his lunch comes back up, throwing him into a brief but severe convulsion before his stomach is empty. Back to the sink, he's now exhausted and tries to regain control. He couldn't let this get to him like this. Not now. Not this time. He had to stay on top of this...he had to be strong. He couldn't let Katie down.
Mustering up his courage, he goes back out into the hall, staying close to Katie's room, lest she wake. He had no plans to leave right now. Picking up a nearby phone, he dials Reese to give an update and start making plans. It was going to be a long next few days...he could feel it.


Cindy's eyes fill with tears a she stares at the ring, barely hearing Wes' words. Her hand trembles as she reaches out to admire the ring. Her lower lip quivering, she can barely speak. "Oh, Wes...." She sniffs, trying to compose herself, but she can't stop crying. She's felt so rejected all her life... ever since Derek...she'd never had hope for anything else...she'd never dreamed of any man loving her again, let alone wanting to spend the rest of his life with her. "I....I'm so undeserving..." She sniffs again, the tears still streaming down her cheeks as she fingers the diamond. "You're so.....it's so.... it's all too good to be true!" A smile makes its way to the surface, despite her crying, though she can't look up to see Wes' eyes for fear she crumble even more. "I...I would...." She stops, blinking and still unable to stop the tears, her hands shaking uncontrollably now. "I would love to be Mrs. Henson."

Would You

*Rosetta is greatful for Con confort but is happy Mick shows up when he does. Being with Mick always made Rosetta feel better. Still crying Rosetta burrys her face into Mick's shoulder.* " Mick how could this happen? Why Katie? I shouldent have let her go. I shouldent have." *Rosetta clings tighter to Mick.*

*A nurse comes into Katies room and gives her another shot of pain killers.* "There ya go doll that should help the pain. You need to rest."

*Katie trys to comprehend the words Jason is speaking, trying to let them sink in but her mind is still in to much of a fog. Katie turns to look at Jason again. The compation in his eyes, the friendship. Katie eyes slowly start to close as the pain meds kick in and make her feel drozy.* " Promise you wont leave me J. Its comforting to know your there."

*Wes smiles back at Cindy.* " Non really other than I am with the prittyest lady in the world and she deserves the best." *Wes orders there food than sits and makes small talk with Cindy. Finally the waiter brings the wine and pours it for both Cindy and Wes. Wes nods at the waiter and smiles alittle. Within a matter a minutes a small band sets up alittle ways behind them starts to play some soft slow music. Wes trys to calm his nerves as he takes Cindy's hand a serouse look on his face.* "Cindy, I know we havent known eachother for very long but I feel like Its been years. Your so easy to talk to...and you...well your just wonderful. I feel so happy when I am around you. I've never felt this way before. I feel complete..like you were the puzzle peace in my life I was missing and I enjoy spending time with you and would like to spend alot more. So...ummm...all in all Cindy.." *Wes reaches into his pocket and pills out a small black box. inside in contains a small simple silver ring with 1 dimond in the middle.* "....would you like to spend the rest of your life with me, and become Ms. Cindy Henson?" *Wes waits in antisapation for Cindy's answer a smile on his face, and the nervusness in his eyes showing. The last time he did this. It dident go well. He hoped this time would be better.*

Comfort

Con immediately gets to his feet, feeling completely helpless. He squats down next to Rosetta, putting an arm around her shoulder, knowing he’s awkward at this kind of thing. “It’s okay, Rosetta…it’s going to be okay… she’ll be alright…”

Mick suddenly appears in the door, skidding to a halt as he sees Con and Rosetta. His face is grim and tight, proving Austin had just spoken to him.

Con looks up and stands, letting Mick take his place. They exchange no words as Con backs off, leaving the two alone. He takes a deep breath as he steps down off the porch, and stuffs his hands in his pockets. Dear Katie…how could something like this have happened to such a sweet girl? It wasn’t fair.

Mick reaches down and pulls Rosetta up out of her chair, drawing her into his strong arms. “Shhh, shh.” He rocks her back and forth, rubbing her back. “It’ll be okay.”



All of Jason’s emotions scream at him as he watches Katie. His heart feels as if it’s being torn from his chest, and it takes all he has not to allow his tears to come back. It was his turn to be the support – he had to be…for her.

“Hey, hey, Katie, shh…” He puts a hand gently on her shoulder to keep her rested on the bed without trying to rise. “It’s going to be alright. You just need to rest right now and not think about anything else, okay?” He bites his lip, forcing another smile to reassure her. “We’re going to take this one step at a time…the future isn’t written yet. You don’t worry about me or anyone else right now….you just focus on what you need, and you need to rest.” Her question of who would want her now cuts him deeply. Suddenly he realizes that if given the chance, he would gladly take her place. He stares her in the eye, a soft sternness forming. “You’re a fighter, Katie, remember that. No matter what happens, no matter if this is permanent or not…you will get through this, and there is a future for you.” He grits his teeth. “And don’t you ever think someone wouldn’t want you, Katie.”


Cindy’s eyes widen just a little. “Mmm…nice restaurant….dressing up…wine…what’s the occasion?” Her eyes twinkle with mischief before she lowers them to her menu again.

Ever Again?

*For a moment Rosetta is stuned not sure what to say or what to do. The news...Was this a dream she was stuck in. A single tear rolls down her cheek making a splashing sound in the silence conferming this wasent a dream. In a horse whisper she reply.* "No....Katie." *Before anymore words can be said, Rosetta cant help but break out crying histaricly as she sinks lower in her chair.*

*For a moment Katie is stuned. Jasoon words faiding in and out of her mind. Walk, never again. How was she to protect Jason if she could never walk again, how would she be there when he needed her. Katies whole life planed out, at TJY, the missions she would go on with Jason, the work she would do, the hope to someday have an office like Jason's was now crushed. Katie turns her head and looks at Jason her eyes filling with tears.* "Jason how...why. I dont..." *Katie trys to sit up, trys to move her legs but cant relizing what Jason said must of been true.* " Will I even be able to walk again J? Or is this permanint?" *Katies voice raises alittle bit as panic starst to set in.* "How can I prtect you if I cant walk, how....how am I going to drive me car if I cant walk, How will anyone want me when I cant do anything for myself anymore..." *Katie's head falls back on the pillow as she gets a sharp pain.*

*As Wes and Cindy make it into the restront Wes tells the hostest.* "We had rezorvations for Henson please."

*The hostess nods.* "Right this way Mr. and Ms. Henson."

*Wes smiles and leads Cindy to the table.* " You can order anything you want sweetheart. Today is your day." *Wes orders a small bit of red wine for the both of them. Than scans over the menu to see what he wants. Everyone and a while looking up at Cindy admiring her.*

Breaking the news

Con sinks down in another chair an takes a moment to regroup. He himself was upset about the whole thing and wanted to go to Katie...how much worse it would be for Rosetta to receive this kind of news. "It's Katie." He looks Rosetta in the eye, trying to convey that it will be okay. "She was in an accident. But she's alive and stable, and that's the main thing, alright?" He takes a deep breath. "I'm not sure about all the details or how anything happened yet, but...her spine was injured. And...the doctor informed Jason that..." Con closes his eyes for just a moment. "Katie may never walk again, Rosetta. She's in the hospital now...I don't know for how long or anything, or if she can even see anyone yet. We'll have to get a hold of Reese again to find out details a little later."

Cindy rests her head against Wes' shoulder for a minute as they go into the restaurant. She was used to his compliments, but they still always made her blush. "You're too good to me Wes." A smile breaks forth. "I'm proud to be here with you, too."


Jason immediately tries to compose himself, stopping the tears and forcing a smile. "Hey, Hero, welcome back." He reaches over to brush her cheek with the back of his hand. "Just take it easy, okay? Relax." A short laugh comes out. "Me, sad? You just had me scared to death is all...but you're going to be alright." He moves back to resume holding her hand in both of his, and keeps his voice quiet and gentler than ever. "You're in the hospital, Katie. There was some kind of an accident, and the ambulance brought you here." He searches her weary eyes, inwardly cringing as she winces in pain. "Katie, there's something you need to know..." He swallows hard, forcing himself to master his emotions if only for this moment. He had to tell her. If he didn't, she would awake later and either panic or be told by a stranger, and he didn't want that. He knew she'd want to know as soon as possible. ...But how on earth could he tell her?
Jason runs his thumb through the palm of her hand. "You're alive, and that's a miracle in itself...and that's what you have to focus on, okay?" His eyes plead with hers to listen and to understand. "The doctor worked on you for a long time...and he said that your spine was injured." He pauses again, trying to convey comfort and reassurance through his hand's grip. "The injury caused some paralysis, Katie...and...right now you're not going to be able to walk."

The Battle Just Started

*As Katie lays asleep her mind reels with dreams, Memories. Images of her mom, and her little baby brother. Her aunt and the ranch. Wyatt...good old Wyatt. And Jason. Many throught run though of Jason. How they laughed, and talked. Joked around and shaired many special moment together. Deep in her dream Katie hears Jason's voice. "You can make it your strong." Confused Katie trys to makes sence of everything. Feeling Jason's presence and her hand in his her eyes flutter open and a small amout of pain corses through her.* "J...whats...whats going on? Where am I? Why does it hurt so much?"*Katie trys her best to smile but winces in pain. Slowly everything that happend starts to come back to Katie.*

*Seeing the look on Con's face Rosetta starts to feel panic inside herself. Something happend but to who. Con's eyes could tell no lie disaster had striked. Siting down at her desk Rosetta looks across at Con.* "What is it Con? What's happend?"

*Wes smiles at Cindy as they drive.* " Your looking pritty good yourself." *After a few more minutes they arrive at the restront. Geting out of the truck Wes lets out a long sigh trying to calm his nerves. Going over to Cindy's side of the car Wes opens the door and helps her out. How she looks raident, Wes beams as they walks arm and arm into the Restront. Lean in as they walk Wes says.* " I am so proude to have you on my arm tonight going in here." *Wes beams*

So sorry

Jason sits down numbly, hoping for the best, but bracing himself for the worst. Wyatt is on the edge of his seat to listen. As the doctor begins to explain, things don’t sound all that bad…but Jason picks up on the concerned tone and the pause, and he swallows hard. Something isn’t good.

As the doctor expresses the worst part of the news, Jason feels as if he’s had a blow to the gut. His muscles weakening, he’s glad he’s sitting down, and can barely concentrate on what else the doctor has to say. This just can’t be happening.

When the doctor leaves, Jason slowly turns his head to Wyatt, stunned. He opens his mouth to speak, but nothing wants to come.

Wyatt lets out a long breath, unsure how to take all of this in. He was so thankful Katie was alive…but she didn’t deserve this…how would she take the news that she might never walk again? It wasn’t fair.

Jason finally swallows hard and nods to Katie’s room. “Go on. I know you want to see her.”

“What about you?”

“I’ll wait my turn.” Jason looks at Wyatt, conveying that he’d like a moment alone.

Understanding, Wyatt stands and enters Katie’s room. His heart goes out to her as he sees her lying in bed. The machines and lines hooked up make her look so helpless. She appears to be sleeping, so he doesn’t say anything, but just stands watching over her for several moments, prayers running through his mind. He cared for her, no doubt, and seeing her like this was a new kind of pain. He wasn’t sure what to do with it. Though wanting to stay, he musters up his courage and turns to leave the room, knowing that other tasks must be done.

Jason is standing and waiting. “Wyatt…you need to go back to TJY and let everyone know what’s going on. And…unless your dad thinks otherwise, someone needs to call Con or Austin and have them tell Rosetta. It’s only fair she knows what’s happening.”

Wyatt sighs, relenting. “Okay. I don’t want to leave…. But if anything changes, you know to call.”

“I will.” Jason nods. “You have my word.” Only when Wyatt has disappeared around the corner does Jason dare to enter Katie’s room. He knows his emotions are being stretched to the limit, and would much rather be alone when they spilled over, than with outside company, especially Wyatt.
Katie’s still form sends a stab straight to Jason’s heart. He walks numbly up to the bed, and pulls a chair up beside it, just staring at Katie’s face, and wishing beyond all hope that this really was just a nightmare.
He leans over and reaches out slowly, more gently than he ever has before, and he takes her hand in both of his, cradling her fingers against his cheek as a tear finally falls. He knows there was no accident. He knows that this had something to do with the Agency – it had to. “I’m so sorry, Katie,” he whispers. “I’m so so sorry.” Drawing in a ragged breath, he raises his head to plant a kiss on her hand, unwilling to let her go.


Con sinks down into a chair as he holds the phone up to his ear, hearing Reese’s voice on the other end. “Oh no…” The news of Katie rushed over him like a title wave. “How…what…..” He was at a loss for words, and numbly received the information.
After the call is over, he takes several minutes to pull himself together. Katie was alive, and that’s what really mattered at this point. Questions would be answered later. Right now, he had to stay strong…he had a job to do.
Rising from his seat in the living room, he goes to Rosetta’s office and knocks on the door. Once she answers, he looks at her grimly, knowing that the look on his face will give away the urgency of the situation. “Rosetta…sit down a minute, okay? I have something I need to tell you.”


Cindy sits back in the passenger seat of the car, sighing with content. He looks over to Wes, having noticed his clothing, but hadn’t yet commented. “You look awfully handsome tonight.”

Report

*The Doc nods at the chair for Jason to sit down again. He sits down in the chair next to both of them.* " She is alive to say the least. Very lucky as a matter of fact. She had some magor burns on her arms and legs. Her left eye had a small shard of glass in it. We removed it and it dosent look like it will leave anydamage but for now she has a patch over it as to not strain it. We removed the bulit from her shoulder. It dident hit anything major so thats taken care of. Now on to more pressing subject." *The doc lets out a long sigh before he speeks again.* "In the crash Katie's body was jared in such a way it severed her spin. Katie is paralized from the wast down. We were able to re connect the spine together and she is now in a cast but its going to take a VERY long time for it to heal. Even after it heals we dont know if she will ever be able to walk again. It will take alot of pashents for her to learn again. She is going to need all the company, and friends she has to help her. In cases like the the physicle injorys arnt what we are worryed about its the mental. The depresstion someone can sink into." *The Doc stands and lets out a sigh again looking down at Jason and Wyatt.* " I still dont understand how she got from the car to the road. She wouldent have been able to take herself there." *The doc shakes his head trying to figure it out.* " You guys are free to see her. She is pritty doped up at the moment so she can sleep without the pain. But you are more than free to go to see her. Just try not to make to much noise, and not to startle her she is going to be pritty out of it from the meds." *The doc walks off behind one of the desks to talk to the nurse.*

How is she?

Jason watches the paramedics feeling completely helpless, but having sense enough not to interfere. He feels like he’s trapped in one of his nightmares, except this time he knows he’s not just going to wake up to find everything fine.

He looks at the man lamely and nods. “I’m right behind you.” He’s quick to get back in the pickup, but pauses just before starting it. He stares at his hand that’s smeared with blood. Gritting his teeth, he pushes his grief to the back of his mind in order to stay functioning. He couldn’t lose it now. Turning the truck around, he catches up to the ambulance and follows it to the hospital, dialing his cell phone as he drives. “Yeah. Reese. Katie’s in a bad way. I’m following an ambulance to the hospital now. I don’t know what happened yet, but there was some kind of an accident.” He bites his tongue from suggesting who should come, but he knows it’s only right. “Tell Wyatt to get down to the hospital, but don’t make a big scene. I think there was foul play here and until we find out exactly what happened, we better not draw too much attention. Once we know Katie will be all right, we can decide if her family needs to know any of this…but I don’t know how bad off she is yet.”

When Wyatt hears the news, he wastes no time in getting to his jeep. As he speeds across town, a constant prayer is on his lips. He had no idea what kind of shape Katie was in, whether she would be fine, or if the accident had been severe. “Lord, please be with her. Please help her to be all right.”

Jason follows the paramedics inside, trying to keep Katie in his line of sight. As the doctor stops him, he almost fights, but forces himself to relent, his emotions threatening to spill over. He watches helplessly as the doctor disappears, and finally sinks down into a chair, burying his face in his hands. What had happened? Would Katie be okay? She had to be. Jason could already feel her slipping from his grasp. He couldn’t lose her…not now…not like this.

“Jason!”

Jason looks up, not knowing how long he’s been sitting alone. He sees Wyatt, and looks at him grimly.

Wyatt looks around for a moment, stricken with worry, but finally sits down. “What happened? Is she okay?”

“I don’t know yet.” Jason turns his gaze back to the floor. “Her car had gone off the road and was in flames…I found her on the side of the road…I don’t know how she got there…but she didn’t look good, Wyatt. I don’t know how she is.”

Wyatt swallows hard, and leans back in his chair. “They haven’t said anything?”

“Not yet.”

“How did you find her?”

Jason shrugs. “Someone called…I don’t know who it was, but they told me where she was.”

The two men let the silence reign for a long while, each afraid to voice their worries, and each lost in their own thoughts for their friend.
Reese calls twice for updates, but each time, neither have any news.

Jason jumps to his feet as the doctor comes through the doors. He hopes he’s not reading his face correctly, but is afraid to even ask. “How is she?”