Morning comes again

Band practice continues for about another hour, the guys all enjoying it, and not really wanting it to end, even though they were tired from a long day.

Jason's voice accompanies his playing, the tone so mellow and sweet, that could put anyone in a trance. Even when the tempo picks up, and the rock sound gets rougher, his voice remains smooth, seeming to hold them all together.

Kyle joins in with backup on some of the songs, but mainly sticks to his keyboard as usual, allowing Jason the lead both instrumentally and vocally.

When the notes of the last song finally die away, Jason just sits for a few minutes

This was the first nice distraction I've had in a while... I don't want to give it up and go back to the real world.

He tosses Katie a look, accompanied by a crooked grin.

Rocky leans back in his chair, twirling his pop can in his hand. "So, Kyle, when are you gonna be singing in the spotlight, eh?"

Kyle looks up quickly from his music. He eyes Rocky for a moment, almost as if warning him not to say more

Jason sees it, and quirks an eyebrow.

What was that for? Is it just me, or is Kyle just being strange tonight?

Phil looks to Rocky with a response. "He had the spotlight for a while this year when Jason was gone."

"Oh yeah, that's right."

Kyle rolls his eyes. "Everyone was glad when Jason got back."

Mike smirks. "You did fine."

Rocky eyes Kyle almost suspiciously as if asking a question, or implying he knew more. "I'm sure he did."

"I keep trying to get him to sing more," Jason adds. "But he insists on staying in the background."

Kyle shrugs. "You're the better singer."

Now it's Jason's turn to roll his eyes. He, Mike, Jen and Phil would probably all agree that Kyle's voice wasn't as strong as his. Kyle had a nice tone and was musically talented, but it was a simple fact that while Jason had been gone, JetStream had suffered some. They'd done very well still, and had not been in dire straights, but it was simply known that Jason had the stronger voice. But even so, they didn't like saying it, and Kyle still didn't give himself enough credit, even if he wasn't meant to be the lead singer. "Oh, just stop," Jason chides. "We're a team, remember? It takes all of us to get the right sound, no matter who is singing or playing the instruments."

"Amen," Mike agrees.

Rocky continues to look at Kyle, his eyes narrowing slightly as if waiting for him to say something, but it never comes.

Jen shakes her head and wheels herself to the stairs. "Sorry to break up you little boys, but I need help upstairs, unless you're all too involved in your egos."

Mike laughs and gets up from his drumset. "Aw, we wouldn't leave you, you know that."

"Mm...at least you wouldn't." Jen's eyes sparkle as Mike comes to lift her up and carry her up the stairs. Phil is close behind, carrying the wheelchair.

The basement grows quiet for another minute until finally Rocky stands up and stretches. "Well... g'night, y'all. See you soon." He ambles upstairs with a yawn, ready to head home.

Jason sighs and sets his guitar aside, looking in Katie's direction. "Guess it's my turn. Trooper won't forgive me if I'm any later than this... either that or I'll have a mess to clean up."

He grins a little, then shifts his gaze to where Kyle was still standing, just seeming to be studying the keyboard for no apparent reason. "Hey..."

Kyle looks up quickly. "Yeah?"

"You alright?"

A smile surfaces on Kyle's face. "Of course. Why?"

"Guess you seemed a little far away a few times."

"Not feeling the greatest." Kyle shrugs, but his quirky smile remains. "Had a headache all day, my right contact is giving me problems and I'm kinda tired. Sorry if I bummed out on you guys."

"Nah." Jason finally stands up and shakes his head. "I know I wasn't a hundred percent tonight either."

"Oh, but we'll be ready for the next show," Kyle nods with confidence. He laughs. "And if we aren't, we'll give the audience a good show anyway."

Jason chuckles. "That's for sure. ...Alright, well... see ya later."

"Okay, man. Later."


"Night, Carson."

"Yeah... good night." Carson watches Axel leave before letting himself in the back door of Mom and Pop's and going to his room. Easing down on the bed, he lets out a long sigh. He was grateful for Axel's company. They hadn't talked much. Axel hadn't pushed, and Carson had kept most to himself. The quiet had been different though. A cup of coffee instead of a shot of whiskey had been different, and Axel's quiet company had been different. But...Carson had to admit that it was probably better. At least he wasn't feeling guilty for doing anything stupid. All he was feeling right now was sorrow for how Jess must be feeling.

Looking at the clock, he sees it's late, but he'd done some thinking tonight, and a phone call was due. Going out into the hall, he dials and waits, getting the answering machine. She probably slept through the ringing. "Hey, Dani, um... sorry if I woke you up. I, um... guess I'm ready to take you up on your offer if it still stands. Decided maybe a change would be good, ya know?"

In truth, after tonight, he really did want a change. Something. Anything. Though he hoped for a friendship with Jess, he knew that a light in his life was gone now, and without her, and without the one who had stolen his heart, things just seemed to have turned gray. Within twenty-four hours, things had changed again, and he needed a distraction. Maybe he just hoped that a change of scenery would help.

He clears his throat. "So anyway... stop by tomorrow sometime maybe and we'll talk. Night, sis. See ya."

Hanging up, he trudges back to his room, hoping that sleep would come easier than the day had gone.


Axel ambles down the sidewalk, hands in his pockets as he breathes in the night air. Becoming friends with Carson hadn't been planned, and it was an interesting relationship they were forming. Axel found Carson's behavior and thought processes intriguing, knowing without asking how the past had obviously shaped him.

Much had gone unsaid, but neither had cared. Both men knew better than to ask too many questions, each knowing too much about the other to have any disrespect.

Axel finally makes it back to the auto shop, but instead of going upstairs, he sits at the bottom for a long while, simply enjoying the quiet... the night. Being able to see the stars signified a freedom he savored.


Receiving Misty's prompting, Scott sighs and shuffles the cards. Finally he reaches out and takes one more bite of his supper, though says nothing.

Contemplating a moment, he shrugs and starts to deal out some cards, signaling that Misty is free to join him.

He's quiet, forcing himself to make a little small talk as they play a couple games. He really was grateful that Misty didn't mind sticking around for a while. At least it was a few more minutes that he could concentrate on something else.

By the time she goes home, they were even on wins, and three quarters of Scott's supper had been eaten. Now under the watch of Hal, the night starts, and Scott endures another round of nightmares until finally morning comes again...


"...How you feeling? I see you did a good job on supper last night."

Scott felt like a little kid as Rick greeted him that morning. He scoots up in bed, still under the blanket, and stifles a yawn. "Can I go home today?"

"Well... I promised you could. And I'm a man of my word. So when I go home tonight, I'll take you home, alright?"

Scott wanted to go now, but he also knew Rick wanted him there for the majority of the day in case his absence would work against him when trying to save his own job... if that job even really existed anymore. "Okay," he mumbles quietly.

Rick sighs deeply and slowly comes to sit on the bed. More needed to be said, and he feared the reaction, but this wasn't something he could spring on him at the last minute. "Scott... there's something else I want you to do for me, too."

Scott looks up quickly. "But you promised I..."

"You can go home," Rick assures. "And I won't make this an ultimatum. But I hope you'll consider it."

Scott swallows hard, his thin fingers fidgeting with the edge of the blanket. Domino crawls up from the foot of the bed to come sit on Scott's lap, almost as if trying to give him courage. He moves his hand from the blanket to her head, scratching her lightly.

"Scott..." Rick prompts him gently. "I think it would be good for you if...if you talked with somebody about what happened."

Scott's eyes shoot up, flashing with a mixture of emotions too quickly to be adequately read. "What do you mean?"

"I mean I want you to gain back your strength physically... and mentally too."

Scott's inner defenses rise. What happened to him was private. It hurt, and he didn't like exposing that wound. He could work through it on his own. "You want me to see a shrink," he mumbles.

Rick shakes his head. "Come on... don't twist it around." He keeps his tone soft and gentle. "I think it would be good for you to see a counselor. Get some things off your chest. Talk about..."

"No." Scott's retort comes as the most firm as anything he's said since he'd been back. His eyes fall downward and he looks at his dog.

"Please? It would..."

"No."

"But you can..."

"I don't want to!" Scott's raised voice comes as a bit of a surprise, as does his glare, even though he won't look up at Rick. He can feel hot tears pooling behind his eyes, and fights to keep them back. His tone comes back softer, almost childlike. "I just want to go home."

Rick's shoulders drop. He wasn't going to give up - this was too important for Scott's well-being, not to mention the effort it had taken just to get funding. But maybe for now, easing off would be best. "I'll take you home," he relents. "Come on... get yourself up for the day. I brought you some breakfast."

Moving to his desk, he writes a quick email to Misty, not wanting an audible conversation.
Trying to get Scott to see a counselor. Don't know what will convince him though. Any ideas?


Laura scurries around the house, not bothering to dry her hair, grabbing a quick breakfast of toast, and hurrying to the door. She was an hour late for work, and nothing seemed to be going her way this morning.

Tripping over Henry, she apologizes as he howls and goes running down the hall. "Sorry Henry!" She sighs and heads for the door.

Opening it up, she stops, almost stepping on the small object between the main and screen doors. A smile spreads on her lips. She knew this was not for her, but it still made her feel good, knowing that someone cared so much for her friend.

Picking up the red rose, she goes and sets it on the kitchen table, knowing Katie will see it when she gets up.


"So..." Bret swallows the rest of his coffee. "...he wants me to at least go down to the track and talk. I'm not sure exactly what he wants me to do, but I don't think I want to ride a circuit. They used to keep a few guys at the track just for local racing... kinda like building up the track, rather than one driver. They liked to get people to come here to see their drivers, rather than send them all out. Not exactly the norm, and a lot of drivers didn't like it because they were stuck in one place unless they found sponsorship somewhere else, but... it's a little more stable as long as you keep winning."

He stops and shrugs, trying to catch his breath from the long spiel. He eyes Charlotte, wondering at her response. "I... guess I'd like to go see what Kirk has to say is all. And..." He pauses again. "I don't know..."

Bret doesn't realize how strongly the longing shows in his eyes. "Thought maybe this could by my job 'til spring or something, if you're alright with it."


"Hey, Jess..." Axel cradles the shop phone between his chin and shoulder, hating leaving messages on answering machines. "Uh, just wanted to let you know your car will be done this afternoon. You can pick it up any time. I should be around all day, but if I'm not, just ask for Leo, and he'll settle things up for you."

He paces around the inside of the office, getting tangled in the phone cord. He always felt like an idiot, talking to a machine. He always hoped at least halfway through, someone would pick up the phone, so he could make up for mumbling incoherently. "So... yeah."

Shot

"You know you better eat that Scott."

Misty looks up from her desk at Scott. She hadnt talked much all day and she new she was being standoffish but she just didnt feel like mingaling right now. Putting that aside though Misty new she had a job to do and right now it was making sure Scott would be ok and was healthy. Not to mention he was her friend.

"You want to go home right? Well you can't unless you eat. You need to be strong and healthy. Just let your tummy rest for now and than try and eat a little more later."

Misty trys her best to give Scott a smile though much was on her mind. Carson, Kyle, Carson Kyle....she had exspected her feelings for Carson to come back but even a whilefire that is held back will soon burst through with enough deteurmination. No matter how she looked at things though Misty felt stuck. Misty just wished things were simple and easy but that was just not the real world.

Looking to Scott again Misty trys to keep her mind off things, she just wanted to think about something alse and work was not doing the trick.

"Would you like another person to play cards with so its not so one sided?"

Walking over to Scott Misty gives Domino a gentil pat on the head. The dog was his bestfriend and never left his side. Domino was a smart dgo indeed.

Exiting her apartment Jess locks the door behind her. It had been about an hour since she had been home and she really did not want to be there. So many things when through her mind and so many feelings.

As the cold air hits her face Jess zips her coat up farther before starting her way down the sidewalk. She wanted to walk, she wanted to clear her head.

After walking for a few minutes Jess finally comes to a bench that looks out over the water. She had walked farther than she planed but it felt good. Now sitting down and gazing out to the harizon where small ships bobbed up and down on the water in the dark the tiny light danced.

Watching the lights Jess gets lost in thought. She been alone so many times before in her life but now something was differnt, for some reason a new feeling made its presence. For the first time Jess actully felt lonly.

The cold wind stings her face on the areas where her tears had rolls down. Bringing a hand to her face its as if Jess herself is shocked to see the tears there. This was all new, this was all differnt, this was what real life was about. Pain, and joy, tears and smiles, love and loss...life...what was its meaning...now they Jess spend less time drunk, and more time outside bars, what was her purpis.

Kaite eyes Jason for a moment as the chatter continued. It was strange the whole thing with Axel but who was she to question it.

Maybe he has had a bad past that he just wants to forget!

Katie takes a bit of her cookie and gives a smile and wink at Jason. Now that the air was cleared Katie felt better and her smile was true. How could she be mad at her best friend someone she so cared about.

As the music started up again Katie's eyes romed everyone. Resting on Kyle for a moment as she watched him. Something was up the emotions behind his eyes told all. What it was exacly she wasnt sure but a strange feeling came over her that maybe her friend would nee a shoulder soon.

Continuing her path over the people last but not least Katie's eyes fall on Jason as she gets lost in the music and almost hypnatised watching him strum the strings as the soft music came forth. Oh how she could be lost in these moments forever without a care in the world...when the music and Jason just took her to another place, as the soft feelings emerged from him while he played the music. Oh how Katie lived for the moments like these.

Farther way down south shots ring out as the people from a club scatter. Some lost in the confustion, whole others try to keep there heads on strate...Others panic if caught they surly would be going behind bars.

Trying to make his way to his car a tall dirty blonde runs looking behind him a few times as the words from his lips could out in a differnt language.

"Hayden, Hayden...you behind me man we have to get out of here."

The slightly shorter blonde tails close behind trying to keep up.

"Trey keep going I am right behind you, just dont stop and dont look back. We are almost to the car."

Continuing to run Trey and Hayden's feet pound on the ground as they hearts race in step. Finally making it to the car Trey jumps in the front seat while Hayden gets into the passanger side.

Looking behind them finally Hayden turns whole Trey burns rubber. Seeing no one Hayden sits back front in the seat before looking at Trey.

"Man they were shooting at you."

"Are you sure it was me and not someone alse? I though I saw someone go down."

"There was someone alse who was shot Trey but thats only because I pushed you out of the way. Your parents are only one of the biggest drug lords in Mexico you know. Get to them, they go through you."

Trey turns his head to look at Hayden for a minute before turning his eyes back to the road.

"Thanks Man I would of been a gonner if you hadnt. How long have you known about my parents?"

"Your my best friend Trey, I did what you would of done for me. As for you mom and dad, I am almost like your brother I am always there and your family is always doing business with mine. Not to mention I always wondered where you got the drugs from and your loaded with cash like me. I just put all the peaces together and came up with the picture."

Hayden lifts his hand in the shape of a fist as Trey hits it back the same way. This was there own symbol of friendship something they always did to reminded them without saying it they had eachother backs. Letting out a sigh Hayden finally speaks again.

"So now what? Someone tryed to kill you. What are you gonna do?"

"Tell my parents I guess that would be what was best. I can already hear them now.."

Trey shakes his head and cant help but laugh as he pulls out a pack of smokes and hands one to Hayden.

Pasts and acceptance

Carson looks at Jess, and a small grin quirks the corner of his mouth. He knew she was trying hard, and in this moment, he could relate. Both of them were having a hard time figuring out how to act, and both of them knew the other was feeling the same.

"Yeah. I can to the extra whipped cream." Giving a little nod, he clears off the table and heads to the kitchen.

Once alone, he sighs deeply, moving about to make the milkshake. Was this right? Yes, he knew it was. He cared a lot for Jess... and as much as he wanted to feel more for her, it just wasn't going to happen. The only thing he could hope for was a good friendship... He didn't want losing that to be a result of tonight. He knew it was a possibility, but he did still want to see her if she wanted to, too.

The rest of the evening goes by a bit awkwardly, but they make it through. Carson does his best to not make a huge deal out of anything, and when it's finally time for Jess to leave, he offers a hug and a kiss to the top of her head, promising he'd see her soon.

Locking up for the night, Carson trudges back to his little room. The smile had faded. For once again... he felt alone. Though it was best, his loneliness knew no cure. But perhaps this was his fate. Perhaps it was a simple case of poetic justice for his past misdeeds.

Grabbing his jacket, he decides to get some fresh air. In the back of his mind, he knows what he really wants... he knows the close call he'd had earlier that day... which route would he take tonight?

Outside into the crisp evening air, he heads down the sidewalk, with no real destination, but the inner battle was raging inside of him. Since he'd come here, this was fiercest the temptation had been, and it was driving him up a wall. He just wanted to sit... relax... find a different atmosphere. He just wanted...

"You're out late tonight."

Carson spins around, his hands up, ready to defend himself. Caught completely off guard by the other person who had come up a side street, he blinks and squints for a moment ."Axel? What on earth are you doing here?"

"Taking a walk, what else? What about you?"

Carson shrugs lamely. "Just thinking."

Axel cocks his head, studying his friend's eyes. "How'd she take it?"

"Oh... could have been better... could have been worse." Carson shakes his head, not really wanting to talk about it. Instead, he looks at Axel with curiosity. It was strange he was out at this time too. He did appear to have some odd habits. "So you walk for fun or what? There's a lot of other stuff to keep a guy occupied around here."

Axel almost grins. "Nah. A walk alone is better."

"Then I won't keep you."

Axel stops Carson from walking away. "Carson... where you headed?"

Carson turns back around, guilt showing in his eyes.

Axel doesn't have to ask again. "You know... I heard that all-night cafe at the other end of town has good coffee."

Carson quirks an eyebrow. "Across town? You kidding me?"

"Nope." Axel gives his arm a light whack. "Come on. Race you."

Carson's eyes widen slightly as Axel takes off in a sprint. Competition was one thing he couldn't turn down, especially when it came to running. "Hey!" Taking off, he runs to catch up, and soon both are jogging down the dark sidewalk, energy being spent on the exercise rather than talking or making regrettable decisions.


Jason find himself able to give Katie a small smile, leaning his head into her hand for a moment.

I'm glad we found each other. I don't know how we did... and I know I'm a jerk sometimes... but you being here sure has made things bearable.

Giving a little sigh, he finally lets go of Katie, switching gears. "Brown said it would be a closed session with the judge, so we can't be there anyway. They have the evidence they need, and... he'll let us know what happens."

His phone rings again and he rolls his eyes.

I tell you... people's timing is perfect tonight.

Flipping open his phone, he sees that it's Mike, so he answers. "Yeah?" He glances at his watch. "I thought it was at eight. Oh... oops. Yeah, I'll be right over. Thanks."

Jason grimaces as he puts his phone away. "Okay, so, I didn't check all my messages, and now I'm a half hour late for practice." He throws Katie a sheepish grin. "We better go or else we'll have to pay for it."

Though he really wasn't in the mood to be with the band tonight, he knew they needed the practice, and maybe it would be a good distraction. He doesn't have to ask if Katie will come...he knew she would...


"...Suspended?!" Phil lets out a low whistle. "You trouble makers, you."

Jason smirks as he sits on the stool with his guitar. Mike's basement was full with JetStream, including Jen and Katie, then Rocky was there on top of it, just to hang out. "Yeah, well, it's a vacation, right?"

Kyle rolls his eyes. "What happened?"

Jason shakes his head. "Long story. It's complicated."

"Yeah, I know, you're sworn to secrecy, right?"

"Actually no, but I don't want to bore you with details."

"Oh, I wouldn't be bored." Kyle leans forward over his keyboard, looking at Katie and Jason expectantly. "I love a good juicy story about you two getting into trouble."

Mike fakes throwing a drumstick at Kyle. "Would you shut up and play?"

Kyle grins and turns his attention back to the song they'd royally messed up on just minutes prior. "Yeah, sure, if Jase would get his act together."

"Me?!" Jason's eyes widen. "It was you that missed a whole measure!"

"You were on the wrong key halfway through!"

"Phil started it!"

Mike starts to laugh and shakes his head, looking at Katie. "See what I deal with?"

Jen's voice loudly interrupts. "No homemade cookies for anyone who bickers!"

Suddenly the banter ceases and Kyle gives his sister the most innocent, angelic look. "Us? Bicker? Never!" He starts playing a few chords, though the silly grin remains on his face.

Half an hour later, they're breaking again, enjoying a batch of Jen's cookies. "So what do you got planned this weekend?" Mike asks no one in particular. Not receiving much of a response, he looks to Kyle. "You got that visit to the caves with Misty, right?"

Kyle seems lost for a moment, then blinks and nods. "Um, yeah, yeah. Monday, actually."

Rocky grins. "Oooh, you two got a date to the caves. You know if you don't come back they send search parties. So I wouldn't spend too much time smooching in there."

Jen's eyes widen. "Rocky!"

He laughs. "What?"

Kyle gives a half-hearted laugh. "Yeah, yeah."

Phil quirks an eyebrow at his brother. "I thought you wanted to go."

"Oh, I do. I mean, yes. What's not to like?"

"I don't know. You just seemed like you didn't want to go there for a minute."

Kyle's eyes focus on his keyboard and he rearranges some music. "No... It's great. Should be fun."

The quietness is confusing to anyone who knew Kyle, and Phil exchanges a look with Jen, then Mike, then Katie. "Maybe he's planning to propose," he whispers hoarsly, intending it to bring humor back.

It backfires though as Kyle shoots him a glare. "Phil, cut it out," he growls.

"Sorry, I just..."

"Well stop!" Kyle moves around from his keyboard, heading in the direction of the bathroom. "I got trouble with my contact. I'll be right back."

Jason looks at Phil and Mike for a moment, then polishes off his cookie.

Wonder what's eating him.

Mike clears his throat and finally glances to Rocky in an attempt to change the subject. "So... Cryptic got big plans yet?"

"Naw, not really. Just hanging out at the moment."

"I've wanted to get to know Axel a little better, but he seems pretty quiet. Is he a good addition to the band?"

"Oh, definitely." Rocky nods. "He's got a brain like no other. Kinda odd sometimes, but he can fix anything, and he reads people so well sometimes it's scary. He is kinda quiet though - you're right about that."

"You said he'd been with you about what... a year now?"

"That sounds about right. Picked him up in Wisconsin."

Phils curiosity rose. He knew all the other members of Cryptic so well, it was strange not to know one of them. "What's his background?"

Rocky furrow his brow. "Not sure. He was in a church up there when we found him... he helped us out when our other sound guy left us hanging, then we found out he had an ear for music, so we invited him to hop on board." He shrugs. "He doesn't talk about his past though."

"Family?"

"Don't know. He never talks about any."

"You don't know him very well for having been with him almost 24/7 for a year," Phil muses, almost teasing his friend.

Rocky grins. "Axel's a good guy. He's added a lot to our band. That's all we need to know I guess."

Jen finds this most interesting, and inserts herself in the covnersation. "Women are more curious than men," she admits, "but that does seem a little strange, you traveling with him, but not knowing that much about him."

Rocky shrugs. "Logan liked him... I liked him... we needed sound guy. He turned out to be more than that, and we get along so... we're fine. We asked him once about his past and he said it was a long time ago and the door was closed. So we let it drop. Respected his privacy. We're friends now though. I mean... we could be closer, and you'd think we would be, but... it's all good."

"Does he ever have any friends or anything show up at shows?"

"Never." Rocky lifts his eyebrows. "Come to think of it. I don't think he's got a huge circle of friends though. We did have this one incident at a concert though about seven or eight months ago... We were in Tennessee I think. Some dude came up right in the middle of the concert and started hollering at Axel, actually came up and started swinging his fists around, yelling something about deserving worse and calling him names. I think the guy was drunk, and security took him out pretty quick. We all just let it slide, but it really bothered Axel. He wouldn't say why though. Otherwise, we've never crossed paths with anyone who knows him, except for in Wisconsin."

Jason just listens. For some reason, suspicion rose.
Interesting. I thought there was something strange about him when we first met... I wonder if it would be worth looking into.

Jen almost looks sorry. "I'm in his Bible study group, but even there, it's been hard to get to know him. He seems nice though."

"Oh, very," Rocky agrees. "I tell ya, he's got a firm foundation in God, that's for sure. We all kinda wondered about his past, but then decided that acting like Jesus was the best option. It doesn't matter where we've been, ya know? I mean, I wouldn't want someone digging around my own past. I want people to see me who I am today. So really... that's what we did with Axel. And come to think of it... he does the same thing with us. He's never asked about our pasts. Though quite honestly, I think he's got us all pegged." He chuckles. "Sometims I wonder if he's psychic."

"Well I'm no psychic, but I know we're going to be here all night if we don't get through these songs." Kyle rejoins the group, sliding in behind his keyboard again.

Jason grins and picks up his guitar again, looking to Katie. "Guess we better get to rockin'."


Scott picks at his supper. Janet had been so nice to fix extra beef and mashed potatoes that Rick had brought over... and it tasted good... he just didn't feel like eating it.

Rick folds his arms with disapproval after he's wrapped up for the night. "No food, no home," he warns.

"I just don't feel like eating," Scott mumbles.

"Look... you need to," Rick directs. "We made a deal, remember? Eat at least half of what's there." He felt like he was talking to a child, but if that's what it took...

Scott manages to take another bite of potatoes. "Happy?"

"No. But I have to go now. I expect to find out you ate more. Got it?"

Scott shrugs.

Rick sighs and gives Scott's shoulder a pat. "Get some rest, Scott. Tomorrow is a new day." He waves in Misty's direction. "See you in the morning," he calls.

Scott continues to sit cross-legged on is bed, picking through his food after Rick has left. He takes another small bite, then sets his fork down and pushes his plate away. He knew they had a deal, and he wanted to go home tomorrow, but after a few bites, his stomach simply didn't want anything more.

Out of the corner of his eye, he sees Misty. She'd been quiet most of the day though... and he was banking on her not giving him a bad time about eating. Looked like the evening would be another one of solitaire and boredom. He reaches for his deck of cards. Oh how he just wanted to leave.

Extra whip cream

"I guess thats one thing about getting older huh? At one point in time all we wanted was for things to change and now, now it never stops."

As Jason takes Katie's hand she can start to feel the emotions coming a little stronger now but not enough to cause a great deal of pain. Closing her eyes Katie takes in the feelings and emotions processing them, and letting herself get strength from them.

Though one would think someone would get tired of doing this all the time Katie never did. It never bothered her and she liked the closeness it gave her to Jason. Even if she didnt need it to live she would welcome it with open arms.

As Jason's phone rings it causes Katie to jump snapping her eyes open. The moment had been broken. Watching Jason as he talked on the phone Katie wanted. Once he is off she looks to Jason with question about what was to happen next.

"Do we need to be there? or will Brown call us."

As Jason comes close for a kiss Katie's heart starts to race once again like it did so many times before. Each kiss with Jason was special, each kiss felt like it was the first all over again. Being close to Jason she felt safe, being this close she almost felt untouchable.

As Jason backs away Katie can spot the reminent of where the tear had fallen. Bringing a hand up to his cheek Katie smiles and runs her thumb over the spot.

As long as we have each other we will be ok. We are in this together Jason. Giving up on you is not even an option in my mind.

Giving a small nod to Carson Jess keeps her smile even though on the inside it felt like a rain storm. It wasnt hard to tell Carson was already having a hard time with her. Showing her own emotion wouldnt help him much and Jess didnt want to put him through even more.

Looking down at the table as Carson asks his final question Jess is silent for a moment. All the other guys she had dated she was never friends with after the break up. Peter, she just forgot about him till he came around again she never really felt close to him anyways. So how was she to act now? Any differnt other than not kissing and holding hands? What would she say? Would they still have dinner sometimes? Would he still come over? Things would change but how much would really change!

Looking up Jess catches Carson eye for a moment. They were going to be friends, she had to try. Carson had been to good to her, he's showed her what it was to really be treated good and she had, had deeper feelings for him. She had to try and maybe the milkshake was the first step.

"I'd like that but can I have extra whip cream on mine today?"

Jess smiles again as she looks up at Carson. This was gonna be differnt but it was worth the try.

Medicine

Hearing a car, Jason knows without looking that it is Katie. The more days that went by, the more in tune he became, and the more sensitive he was to her presence and feelings. What at one point bothered him so much, now came as a strange form of comfort that he wouldn't easily admit. For without Katie, not only did he suffer, but it was as if a piece of himself was gone.

Looking out at the lake, he just lets Katie come, and remains quiet. He understood the silent words, and listened to what she had to say. He had been too harsh. He never should have thought Katie would leave him high and dry, and he understood good and well what she was saying now.

A bit of guilt creeps up on him and he lets it out, not minding if Katie knew how he felt. He'd been so upset... he still was... but he shouldn't have taken it out on her like he had. She hadn't meant her words like he'd taken them, and it had been stupid of him to stay mad like he had.

A slight grin surfaces at Katie's ending statement.

I don't mind your babble. I rather like it.

Finally turning his head, he looks down at her, studying her eyes and the soft glow of her face.

When will I learn that you're the medicine I need, not the cause of my ailment?

He sighs deeply. Actual words just didn't want to come. He was almost better now at their own language than spoken English

I'm sorry too. I was being a jerk, and on top of it, I know I probably put you through heck last night.

Sliding off the tailgate to stand next to Katie, he remains close, but keeps his focus back out on the water, his hands in his own pockets for several quiet minutes. Yes... memories were here. A few private emotions he keeps to himself, recalling his and Katie's time here and the first real kiss they had shared. In a world of black, that had been his light before everything had fallen apart. And now everything had turned upside down and again so many times, it felt like those memories were a lifetime ago. Yet they were so fresh and vivid, that Katie was right - it felt like it was just yesterday.

"Everything is changing," he comments softly. "The big picture... our own little world... us. It's all changing."

He thinks of Austin. He thinks of TJY. He thinks of his mom. He thinks of the past. He thinks of prison. He thinks of the here and now. He thinks of his friends. Nothing was the same. Nothing would ever stay the same.

Without turning, Jason slides his hand out of his pocket and reaches over to find Katie's hand in her own. Drawing it out, he locks his fingers with hers, starting to let the emotions flow again. He lets them come slowly so the pain would not be so great, and like a poison being released, he can feel the tension begin to lessen as it serves to energize its destination. Remnants of anger... bits and pieces of confusion... and a hurt that went so deeply, it could never be fully removed.

He had trusted a man all his life, and was now feeling the sting of betrayal. He felt used... a fool.. and on some level, just a little bit worthless. He was angry at the circumstances. He was so hurt by his own grandfather. He was confused at what had happened, and what was to come.

A sudden shrill ring shatters the exchange of feelings, and Jason jerks to attention, his hand going for the phone on his belt. Today was not a day to miss calls, no matter what he was doing.

"Yeah, hello?" His eyebrows raise. "Yes? And? ...alright. No, nothing new. ...When? ...Okay. Yeah. ...Thanks."

Flipping the phone shut and clipping it back on his belt, Jason heaves another sigh. "That was Brown. A judge will be seeing Austin in a couple days about the incident with Scott. Decisions will be made then."

Finally turning to actually face Katie, he reaches out to run a finger down the side of her face, tucking a lock of wind-blown hair behind her ear. Though their moment had been broken, it didn't seem to matter much. A million and one thoughts raced through Jason's mind, and he didn't try to organize them, knowing now that Katie would sense and recognize them. Brown. Austin. Scott. Band practice tonight. Katie might want to call Wendy. His mom. Carson. Scott again.

Still looking into her eyes, Jason finally wraps his arms around her and pulls her close in a warm hold.

I don't know what I would do without you, Hero. Even if I could live without you... I don't think I would want to.

Withdrawing just a little, he has to bend and turn his head to reach closer, his lips gently finding hers.

He hurt so much right now, that all he longed for was the comfort she offered. He knew this was his most vulnerable position. When this close... touching... giving of himself... His emotions were no longer a choice - they would be revealed no matter what. And for a moment, he feels like a little boy again that just wants to find a corner and curl up to cry.

He leans into Katie more firmly, trying to feel her own comfort, while his hurt continued to be released. His arms locked around her, a tear finally surfaces to mingle in their kiss. Couldn't he just stay here and never let this moment end? Couldn't the world stop right now and leave them in peace?

Eventually, Jason gently retreats, though still holds Katie in a hug.

Thank you for not giving up on me.


Seeing the look in Jess' eye, Carson's heart feels as though it had just been stabbed. In the past, he'd treated relationship so flippantly... The emotions he felt now were new and confusing. He didn't know what to do with them. He didn't want Jess to be hurt, but he knew she was. He wanted to fix it, but he knew he couldn't. He wished he could have stopped her from having feelings for him, but no one could have predicted it. And now... now it was just a mess of hurt, and all because of him. He'd messed thing up...again.

Hearing Jess' words about Misty, something flashes in Carson's eyes. He drops his gaze and slowly withdraws his hand from hers to play with his glass again. He wasn't breaking things off with Jess because he was planning on going after Misty. On the contrary...it was better if he just didn't try anything again. With as many times as he'd messed up in the past... maybe it was high time he just did it alone without the chance of ruining even more.

"Some opportunities join the grains of sand as they're blown across the ocean," he comments quietly. He wanted to tell Jess that this had absolutely nothing to do with Misty, but even though he wasn't planning to go back to her right now, that just wasn't the truth. It was becaues of Misty. It was because Carson knew what it truly felt like to have feelings for someone... deep feelings... and they just weren't there with Jess.

Finally looking back up, he takes a deep breath, bravely looking at her eyes again. "Thank you, Jess... I know that.." He wanted to say that he knew she was hurt, but what good would that do? She was trying not to let it show, and maybe it was best if he simply respected that. This was something he couldn't fix.

"Can I make you a strawberry milkshake for desert before you leave?"


As Wendy accepts, a wave of emotions hits Clint. He was so happy that she said yes, and so very scared at the same time. As she reaches out to hug him, he stands, pulling her up with him, and holding her tightly, his face buried against her hair. Her words sting. He knew he'd hurt her by leaving.

"I missed you too," he replies quietly.

Drawing away, he takes a moment to look her in the eye. Seeing a tear on her cheek, he once again feels the guilt for everything that had happened. But a smile is forced to the surface anyway, and he reaches out with his thumb to wipe the tear away.

Looking down, he takes her hand in one, and with the other, he removes the ring from the box, slowly sliding it onto Wendy's finger. Gazing back into her eyes, he leans down to place a tender kiss on her lips.

Withdrawing to see her eyes again, his voice is still hushed. "I love you, Wendy." And behind the words is a reassuring tone... one that says, we'll be okay. One that says, I'm scared too, but we'll make it.

All of a sudden, a whoop shatters the silence, and reality is back. Clint jumps and looks to Jeff who is now standing, with his arms in the air. Jeff's enthusiasm is immediately contagious as a round of applause breaks out, along with a shrill whistle from Mick.

Clint's face reddens, but he can't help but laugh, keeping an arm slung around Wendy's shoulders. His eyes roam the room and land on his father.

Jim meets his gaze, and offers an approving nod.

And that's all Clint needs, to know that he had done the right thing.

If you love her

Pulling into darkend parkway Katie can make out Jason's truck. Pulling next to it she sits in her car for a moment. She had hardly talked to Jason all day and it was such a strange feeling. Finally opening the door Katie gets out and puts her hands in her pocket before walking to the back of Jason's pick up where he sat. Leaning aganst the tailgate Katie herself looks to the water.

So many memories in one place you know. It's strange how time goes by so fast and we still think something happend yesterday.

Leting out a small sigh Katie can see her breath in the air. It was chilli, and knowing there was a rift between Jason and herself seemed to make it colder. The memories of time fill her mind as her heart acks just a little.

Listen J...I'm sorry.

Turning Katie looks at Jason her arms still in her pockets as she scruntches together just a little trying to stay warm. Her eyes lock with Jason's for a moment...the emotions pooling behind her eyes as they glisened in the moonlight.

"I was upset yesterday J. I guess I said alot of things that maybe I shouldnt have. I didnt mean I wasnted to abanded our mission, or leave you I was just trying to state that I dont think Austin should be running the show. He is changing everything, he's going aganst everything we have worked for, its just he's make it seem like the meaning is being lost."

*Katie lets out a sigh and her mind still turns almost a million miles a minute. Not only did she miss him but her mind missed him as well. She missed shairing things with her and she missed the communication. Now it was almost like she was catching up her mouth matching her brain speed not letting Jason get a word in.*

"All in all Jason I dont think I would leave. Let alone leave you. You mean alot to me you know that, I'd never leave you. Oh J, am I even making sence here? I am trying to relay how I feel and to me it feels like its coming out as babble."

The night goes on and dinner is good, enjoying her time with Carson just came to Jess now even if she wasnt trying. Just being around him felt good. Tonight something seemed differnt though Jess tryed to push it aside and finaly it was gone.

As dinner draws to the end Jess can feel the tention in the air once more as the tone become more searouse. Watching Carson as he speeks Jess almost holds her breath feeling what was to come but hopeing maybe if she held her breath it wouldnt.

As Carson lays his hand on Jess and she hears his words finally she lets her breath out. The inevable not being able to be stoped. The worst coming true, and though Jess new Carson was doing it because he didnt want to hurt Jess ferther it still hurt. She new this might happend and this was a risk. Jess hadnt planed on falling for Carson but she had and now she was feeling the sting.

Finally letting out a sigh Jess look up from Carson's hand and though a smile was on her face the emotions were also in her eyes. She tryed to make them look happy, and show she was ok, but if one looked close enough you could see she was hurt, and she was sad.

"Friendship...I think I can handle that. If your hearts not there its just not there right."

Jess thinks for a moment as she trys to keep her emotions from showing. Maybe she shouldnt say what she wanted to...but maybe she should. Would it make her feel better or worse? Somehow she wasnt sure Jess new, though it hurt to addmit she new where Carson's heart belonged. No matter how much she had tryed to capture it, his heart belonged to one woman and one woman alone had the power of his heart. The power to shape him into what he was today. Yes it was her who in turn stole Carson's heart and helped him become a better man.

"If you still love her Carson, don't let her get away. I've seen her and she is a good woman. I also saw you along time ago when you were with her. You were happy even if you made some bad choses. Dont let the opertunity pass you by eh? Even if you have to work at it a little bit its worth it."

Jess gives a smile the words she said hurt, but she new they were true and all she wanted for Carson was him to be happy. If that ment without her than so be it. But that was the power of friendship and the true caring for someone just seeing them happy made it ok even if it did hurt.

Rosetta can't help but smile back at Mick. It was good to see him, see her family sitting at the table. She was so happy in what she had, though her eyes drifted across the table and they land on Wendy for a moment as a suddon bit of sadness over took her. She could only hope things would work out for the two that were still so young. She couldnt even imagen how Wendy must be feeling and even though he was not here Clint must be pretty confused himself. Rosetta prayed that God would help them both find there way.

Wendy trys to smile as Rosalyn and Jeff go back and forth. She wanted to keep her spirits up and her head high but it just felt so hard. In a room filled with people and Wendy never felt so alone.

Lifting her head as she hears the door open Wendy can't help that her eyes go wide for just a moment. Not saying anything Wendy's eyes just lock with Clint's as they follow him while he walks till finally he was next to her. Watching him intently as her goes to one knee Wendy's heart races even faster, our of being nervouse herself and out of a small fear that creeped up inside of her. Seeing the emotions behind Clint's own eyes Wendy trying to show reasurance through hers.

As Clint's words float to Wendy's hears she can't help the small smile spread acorss her face. Half showed her own fear, and half showed happyness.

"Yes Clint, I will."

Wendy was excited for this but this was not the was she had exspected, this was not how she had dreamed it. She loved Clint that much was true. She had no doubt in her mind that even if this hadnt happend they would of gotten married sooner or later but Now was not the time she had wanted it...and so the first step in reality made itself known as things happend now because they had too.

Slowly sitting up a little Wendy puts her arms around Clint in a hug as a small tear rolled down her cheek one she did not want him to see though the hug had meaning she had missed him and she had worryed about him.

"I'm glad your back. I missed you."

Changes

Bret grins as Charlotte approaches, and automatically drapes his arms around her. As she pulls out the quarter, he gets a mischievous glint in his eye, and pulls her even closer. "I don't need to flip a coin. I already grabbed what I wanted."

Cocking his head, he gives her another kiss, drawing away with a soft laugh and a hug. "Mm...I love it when you come home."

Leaning his forehead against Charlotte's, he rocks her back and forth. "I don't care what we do for lunch, as long as it's with you. And... later I wanna tell you about a phone call I got. But not now, it'll take too long." He grins, knowing that secrecy drove his wife crazy.


Jason can't help but feel a bit of relief, hearing from Katie as well. Though he still wasn't sure who was right or wrong, at leas she wasn't mad enough at him that she'd remain silent.

I don't know... Can we just meet for supper or something? I got a couple errands to run... Maybe by the lake?


The afternoon goes by more quickly than anticipated. For some it's a relief that it passes with speed, while others wish it might have lasted just a little bit longer.


Carson grins as he sees Jess, hearing her offer to help. "Well... since you're asking..." He throws a wet washcloth in her direction with a teasing flourish. "...you can wipe the tables for me."

He holds up a warning finger. "And no complaints, or you won't get that extra cheese."

Tossing her a wink, he turns back to the sink where he was just finishing up the last of the dishes.

With more hands, it doesn't take long to get Mom and Pop's cleaned up for the night. The evening had been a slow one, and they'd closed a little earlier anyway, so it made for an earlier night than normal.

Carson fixes a pizza for Jess and himself, getting their supper set at one of the small corner tables. With the radio going and a few of the lights on, it created a somewhat homey atmosphere that he'd gotten used to since living here.

The meal is relatively quiet, though Carson tries to keep the mood light, despite a dimness behind his eyes. He knew he'd been overcompensating this evening, and knew that Jess had probably noticed he wasn't acting quite like himself. He wished he could just enjoy this evening... and he could, partially... but what he needed to say... it just wasn't fair.

Once the pizza is just about gone, and both had settled into quiet conversation, a pause is his own signal. But he hesitates anyway.

“Jess, I…” Carson leans back in the booth. He looks down at his glass, spinning it on the table, and watching the water rings change shape.

“You have… really helped me, you know that?” He finally looks back up at her, bravely staring into her eyes. “You have given me things to look forward to… you have made me realize that despite my past there are still things worth living for. You’ve been a bright spot in my days.”

He offers a small smile. He did mean what he was saying… his words and feelings were genuine and he hoped she knew that. “You’re a strong woman, Jess. You’ve got a good head on your shoulders, you stand up even when the going gets tough, and your friendships last because you’re loyal.”

Carson pauses again. There were things that he didn’t want to say, but he knew he had to. He’d never had to do this before with anyone… he didn’t know how. But he knew that even if he’d gone through this before, it wouldn’t make it any easier.

He lets go of his glass and slowly reaches across the table to take Jess’ hand in his, running a thumb over her fingers. “I value your friendship… and I can only hope that I don’t lose it.”

The next word was the worst of all. “But…” He inwardly cringes at it, but knows it must be said. “…I’ve come to realize that…friendship is… is all I can offer to you.”

Emotions gloss over Carson’s eyes, proving how hard this was for him. “I’m sorry, Jess… But I had to tell you before I let things go any further.”

He searches her face, his hand still on hers, waiting… wondering.


Jason parks his truck in the lot near the lake and gets out, thankful for his jacket. It was a warm day, but the breeze was chilly, and the evening air was proof of a dropping temperature. Fingering his keys for a moment, he stuffs them in his pocket and glances at his watch. He hadn't talked with Katie since earlier when she'd agreed to meet him. He'd run to the airport and with some help, had taken care of business there. Now it was a bit after suppertime and he hadn't eaten, but his appetite wasn't really what required food at the moment anyway. He needed to get to practice at Mike's in a while, and he was still wondering if Brown was going to call him... but for now... for now, he needed to push those things aside. There was something more important that needed to be done.

Moving around to the back of his truck, he hops up on the open tailgate to sit and wait, while staring out at the nearby water. This place held a lot of memories...


The mess hall is as noisy as always, everyone gathered and eating, chattering over the evening meal. Word had spread very quickly amongst the close-knit family and friends, and by now, everyone knew about Wendy and Clint. Though surprised and maybe disappointed, no one spoke harshly of it, keeping quiet out of respect, and going about life as normal. They were friends and family, not judges.

Jim stirs his food on his plate and looks up to glance around the room for the tenth time. His son was still nowhere to be found. He’d waited all day… he’d tried calling him again, but with no luck. Worry had set in. Now not only was Jim concerned about his son’s return, but his safety as well. Was he okay?

Becky gives her husband’s arm a reassuring pat, trying to let him know that it would all be okay one way or another.

Mick sits nearby with Rosetta on one side and BJ on the other, trying to focus on the conversations around him, but finding his mind wandering to his brother a couple tables away. He hadn’t spoken to Jim about anything that had been going on, but he didn’t have to. He knew the stress that was involved there, and could only hope it would all work out.

Bringing his attention back around, he nudges Rosetta with an elbow and offers her a smile. He’d hardly seen her all day, and sitting with her at suppertime was always something he looked forward to, whether it was in their home or here with everyone else.

Rosalyn had chosen to sit with Wendy tonight, talking as normal, laughing and smiling, doing her best to lighten the strange tension. Even so, it was awkward without her brother around. “…So Jeff has challenged me to a card game later, and I told him that I would only play as long as I had a partner to make sure he didn’t cheat.”

“I heard that!” Jeff’s voice comes from the table behind her.

Rosalyn laughs and looks over her shoulder. “And I thought you were going deaf.”

“Ha! If you…”

Suddenly the messhall door swings open, interrupting the chatter. All eyes look up in surprise, no one having heard any kind of vehicle.

Clint stands in the doorway.

He’s still in his jeans, boots and leather jacket, obviously just getting back. His eyes scan the room and he can feel the questions in the gazes around him, even though the others tried not to let it show. But his eyes were looking for only one person. And finding her, that’s where his focus stayed.

Jason’s words rang in his ears. “Whatever you do, don’t leave her. I’ve seen and experienced those results, and I know you love her too much to put her or the kid through that. I can’t imagine how you must feel, but if you want to do what’s right, you’ve got to be a man about this.”

Shutting the door, Clint looks to Wendy, ignoring everyone else in the room. Two days had been too long. And now he was ready.

Walking with purpose, driven by bravery, he goes straight to her table. The others in the room all try not to make a big deal out of anything, but it’s hard not to, and all conversations seem to be forgotten. Where had Clint been? Was he okay? Was he staying? What was he going to do now?

Jim’s eyes widen slightly and he moves to stand, but Becky keeps a hand on his arm in a request for him to stay and wait to see what Clint was doing.
Pausing beside Wendy’s chair, Clint swallows hard, nervousness and fear showing in his eyes. He hadn’t spoken to her since everyone had fought. He’d answered no calls, and hadn’t even let her know he was okay. But the guilt wouldn’t keep him from doing what he knew he needed to… what he wanted to.

Slowly lowering to one knee, he pulls out a small velvet box from his pocket, opening it to reveal a dainty diamond ring.

The room goes dead quiet, everyone anticipating his words that come next. One could hear a pin drop. But it’s only Clint’s words that are heard.

“Wendy… I love you. I want to be the man you deserve and… and the father our child deserves.” He pauses, his gaze searching Wendy’s eyes. “Will you marry me?”

Extra Cheese

Looking at the hat that now rested on her desk Misty is silent. The noises around her there but not paying much mind of them. Rick and Scott's chatter drownding out in the background. What was going to happen now, what did this mean. was it impaulse she kissed Carson on, or would she take him back in a heart beat. Misty felt so confused, she new she missed Carson but...she was so unsure of alot of things.What would happen next Misty wasnt sure.

Sitting in her chair Katie flips through the tv channles. Today had been a pretty boring day not to mention she felt exsausted. Jason had, had a rough night witch in turn caused her to, ontop on not being able to sleep well anyways. She was tired, nothing on, she felt depressed she hadnt talked to her best friend all day Katie was just in a funk.

Finally settaling back Katie lands on an old movie. It looked like it would be on the boring side but it was better than nothing. Settaling back and pulling the blanket up to her chin Katie trys to get lost giving her mind a break.

As Katie's eyes slowly close and the TV drowns in the back ground Jason's emotions and message reach her causing her eues to snap open. She was a bit saprised but thankful he finally had contacted her.

Yeah, I'd like that. Where do you want to meet up?

Stepping into the house Charlotte looks down at her watch. She was a little later than normal but still in time for lunch. She only hoped Bret hadnt eaten yet.

"Bret sorry I'm late for lunch I hope you didnt start without me."

Taking her jean jacket off she throws it over the back of one of the chairs and sets her purse on the table before heading to the kitchen. Seeing Bret a smil spreads across Charlotte's face. Wrappinf her arms around him her grin grows bigger as she places a tender kiss on her husbands lips. Pulling out a quarter from Bret's jeans pocket where she new it would be Charlotte jokes holding it out to him.

"Heads and we go grab something, tails and I cook us something nice and tonight for dinner we go on an adventure."

Tapping on the door a few times Jess than enters signaling like she had so many times before to Carson she was here. A smile spreads across her face as she see Carson cleaning up for the night. Making her away across the dinning room and into the back Jess can't help but stand and watch Carson for a moment before speeking.

"So, I'll take extra cheese on that pizza and point me to what I should clean and it shall be done."

Entering the kitchen farther Jess smile spreads even more over her face. She loved spending time with Carson even if she was helping him clean up. It was nice talking to someone and having something to do.

Thwarted temptation

Jason was just heading out of his office when Carson stalks by at a fast pace. "Carson, what..." His question trails off as he goes ignored. Why was Carson coming from the infirmary, and why the hurry? What had happened with Austin?

Confused, he shuts his door and takes a detour to the infirmary himself before he left.


Rick and Scott look back at Misty, neither showing much emotion other than a little bit of surprise. Rick clears his throat and continues to clean up his own mess. Scott looks back down at his playing cards, unsure what to say or do. He'd never felt more in the way than now.

Rick straightens up, then spots Carson's ball cap on the floor. Thinking a moment, he goes over to lean down and pick it up. Fingering it a moment, he sighs, then looks to Misty, seeing her tears. Laying a gentle hand on her shoulder, he gives it a pat. For once, there would be no scolding or teasing reprimand. He knew this situation went a lot deeper than two people wanting physical attentions. He also knew that both Misty and Carson were seeing other people, but today was not the day to judge.

He lays Carson's hat on Misty's desk, then turns around to try and concentrate on something else. "Scott? Ready for lunch?"

Scott doesn't lift his eyes. "I'm not really hungry."

"I know, but you need to eat something."

Scott throws down another playing card. The thought of food simply wasn't appealing. He really just wanted to lie down and sleep again, but that was impossible here during the day. "I'm really not hungry," he repeats.

Rick sets his hands on his hips. His patient was skin and bones. And even though he had regained strength and health since his return, he was slowly wasting away. "Scott... you will either eat some lunch, or I will put you on an i.v. Which do you prefer?"

Scott sighs, gathering up his cards. "If I eat, can I go home?"

Rick rolls his eyes. Scott was so difficult, but so innocently weary at the same time. "Alright. It's a deal. You eat a good lunch and supper, and tomorrow I'll take you home."

Scott looks up quickly, his eyes widening. "Really?"

"Yes." Rick doesn't want to. He knows there is a risk involved. For if Scott left, it would be harder getting him back into TJY. "But there is one condition."

"What?"

"You spend half your days here under medical observation." Rick eyes Scott sternly. "Shall we say... for job security."

Scott looks down again. He knew what that meant. Part of him just wanted everyone to let the subject drop and quit fighting on his behalf, but the other part of him was so scared to be without this place to come to, that he would do anything to stay. "Okay," he mumbles.

"Good." Rick nods with satisfaction. "Let me go get you a sandwich from the break room then."

Just as he's turning to leave, he stops, seeing Jason in the doorway. "Hotshot... yes?"

Jason shrugs. "I... just wanted to see if... well..." He glances in Misty's direction, sensing something odd in the air. "Um, Carson..."

Rick shakes his head to signal Jason to keep his mouth shut. "I was just getting Scott some lunch. Care to join?"

Jason wants to know more. He wants to know what on earth happened, but he resists, respecting Rick's silent request. "Uh...no... thanks. I better be going before I get into tr..."His phrase goes unfinished, as another shadow darkens the doorway. Spinning around, Jason comes face-to-face with Austin. An anger flares up inside of him, so intense that it flashes in his eyes and rattles the nearby jars on the counter.

Rick remains calm, moving so Jason can see him. "Easy," he directs quietly.

Jason puts a cap on his anger, but his glare at his grandfather remains.

Austin eyes him suspiciously. "What are you doing here?"

"Visiting a friend," Jason states flatly. "Unless that is now against the rules too. I ought to have..."

"Jason," Rick warns. He looks to Austin. "Something you need?"

"No. I just came to inform you of something," Austin replies. His tone is cool, his body language implying his difficulty at knowing how to act around his grandson, despite his chin that was lifted high. "Your request is approved."

For a moment, Rick is confused. "What..." His eyes widen. "You mean for funding?"

"Yes."

"But I thought..."

"Do you want me to change my mind again?"

"Of course not." Rick recovers from his surprise. "I... thank you. I will proceed as I deem necessary."

"Please keep me informed." Austin gives Jason one last glance before turning around and heading back down the hall.

Jason looks at Rick, bewildered. "Did he just..."

"He did." Rick blinks. "What on earth changed his mind?"

Jason can't help a surprised chuckle. "Carson... that dog. He's got more guts..." He shakes his head. "I need to go. I'll um..." He glances towards Misty again, then back to Rick. "...catch up on the rest later. Call me if there's anything new."

"I will."

Jason gives Scott a quick wave, then heads out, down the hall and hitting the main floor. Bottling up all his confused emotions started an annoying headache, and he just wanted to get out of here again.

Giving Nate a sloppy salute on his way out, he at least acknowledges those around him, though he doesn't stop to chat. Austin may have surprised him, but he wasn't keen on sticking around here just yet. Besides, if it wasn't for Carson, apparently, they still would have gotten nowhere.

Hitting the outdoors, the fresh air was welcomed. Looking around, he saw Carson nowhere. Strange... Jason wondered what on earth had happened in the infirmary, but could only guess that it had something to do with things between Carson and Misty.

Once back on the road, Jason glances around for Carson, but not seeing him, heads for home. Pulling into his driveway though and shutting off the engine, he doesn't get out right away. Taking his keys, he fidgets with them for a moment, not really wanting to go inside. There was nothing inside for him. And his whole afternoon was empty, other than waiting for Brown to call. Then tonight it was just going over to Mike's. Though he did have to make a quick run to the airport. For a moment, he wondered if Katie would be there at practice tonight.

But none of it seemed right. Not when his emotions were so off kilter, and not when things weren't right between him and one of his best friends.

Jason heaves a weary sigh, just settling back in his seat. He still didn't understand what Katie had meant, and why she'd said what she had... but...

Hey, Katie? Can we talk?


Carson trudges down the sidewalk, giving a swift kick to a tin can to send it flying down an alleyway. Muttering under his breath, he heads the long way back to Mom and Pop's, upset with himself, upset with what had happened, and even upset that he'd forgotten his hat. He'd been stupid. He shouldn't have let himself get carried away. He shouldn't have put himself in that position. He shouldn't have given Misty that opportunity.

Of course he still had feelings for her... of course he missed her... of course he wished he could at least be friends with her. But that just wasn't possible. Not with her relationship with Kyle. Not with the distrust that had been built. Not with Carson's own history and pattern.

Stopping, Carson looks up, realizing that he was standing in front of the Bullseye. His mouth automatically starts to water. It had been a long time... he'd been really good... He can feel his wallet in his pocket, and the temptation is overwhelming. He just wanted to relax. He just wanted to have a distraction to stop thinking about all that he was going through.

He takes a step toward the door. He wouldn't stay long... he did have to get back to work, so there was an amount of accountability there. And he could control himself...right? Another step takes him closer.

A horn honking just about makes him jump out of his skin. Spinning around, he squints in the sun, seeing the towtruck that had pulled up to the curb.

Axel cocks his head, looking through the open window. "Need a ride?" he asks loudly.

Carson hesitates, though ambles toward the idling truck, looking through the passenger side. "Just walking back to work."

Axel eyes him for a moment. "Well how about I give you a ride?"

"I'm alright." Carson shrugs. "I need the fresh air."

Axel proves his insightfulness. "Then I'll keep the windows down." He looks at Carson knowingly, his stare giving the message that he wasn't about ready to give up. "Come on. I'll buy you a coke and lend you an ear."

Carson sighs deeply, unable to help a bit of a wry grin. "Alright. You win."

"Good." Axel smiles and waits for Carson to get in before pulling away again. "Now... tell me what's up."


Bret scans the mail as he walks back into the house, kicking the door shut, and ambling to the kitchen. Seeing nothing of real worth, he tosses the envelopes on the table, giving a weary sigh before trudging to the living room where the television was still on. The days Charlotte worked left him in a house full of boredom. Con was doing lunch with Jamie, so that was out. No one else seemed available to do anything either. He'd job hunted a little bit, but had found nothing that he was particularly interested in. His and Charlotte's financial situation was just fine, with her job, and his savings from working with Titan. But he was going stir crazy.

The ringing phone provides him with a break and answering it, he perks up a bit. "Well hi, Kirk. Been a long time. ...Yeah.... no, no, I'm still around. Mm-hmm... No." He laughs. "Settled down... yeah, married again. ...What? Oh, good. ...Naw, just hanging out 'till February. Yeah... What? ...Really?"

Bret straightens and walks around the living room, looking for the remote to turn the tv down. "No, I hadn't... well after what happened... Yeah, I know, but still. What's Jared saying?" He gives a short laugh. "Well that was a long time coming. ....I don't know... I mean... yeah... of course I want to, but... No, no... I'm just not planning on going very far now. Oh? Well yeah, I mean... You know me. I... I'll think about it, alright? How much time do I have? Okay. I'll get back to you. What's your number?"

He fishes around for a piece of paper and pencil, sloppily jotting down a phone number. "Alright. Yeah. Thanks for thinking of me. Bye." Ending the call, Bret stares down at the cordless phone in his hand. Oh, how he wanted to do this. But should he? It seemed alright. But what would Charlotte think? He bites his lip. Surely she wouldn't mind, would she?


Carson wipes off one of the tables, gathering up dirty dishes to haul back to the kitchen. He'd gotten back to work just in time to help with the last bit of the lunch rush, promising to make up for lost time by closing up tonight. He hadn't said anything about where he'd been, but as usual, he hadn't been questioned.

Getting back to the kitchen, he wipes his hands on his apron and exits for just a moment, going to the phone in the back. He had just a couple spare seconds. Getting Jess' voicemail like he knew he would, he leaves a message.

"Hey, Jess, it's me. How about keeping me company while I close up tonight? I could whip up a pizza for us too, if you want. I, um... thought we could maybe talk a bit. So... you can call or just show up. See you later."

What

As Carson's arm wraps around her and his other goes to her back Misty can feeling the gap between them closing as for a moment its like old times. Carson's warmth sent chills through Misty a feeling she had missed all to much.

Getting lost in the moment Misty's mind takes her back to the times Carson and her shaired. Every moment they had spend together.Must time had pasted but it felt like it had only been a day. A long day that neather could wait for it to end so they could see the other once more.

As Carson pulls away for a moment Misty looks into his eyes she saw the fire once more, she saw the light. Not wanting this moment to end Misty welcomes Carson's return not wanting the moment to end.

But as the noise sounds and brings Misty out of her world of thought, her moment of bliss everything seems to come into view and her minds starts to reel. Seeing Carson taking the steps away from her it sends a pain through Misty's heart. What had she done? What was she doing?
As Carson turns and leaves Misty takes a step forward to say something but before anything can come out he was gone. Turning slightly Misty looks from Rick to Scott and than back to Rick. Hanging her head a little Misty goes back to her desk and sits down. She new she was wrong, she new this shouldnt have happend. Looking at the locket that rested on her desk a tear rolled out of Misty's eye before she picked it up and opend her desk placeing it next to the envilope with Carson's braclet and key. What would happen now?