Spinning

Seeing the look of enjoyment in Rocky's eyes Jess is pleased. She wasnt ashamed to admit that she had, had a blast as well. It was nice to enjoy the movie and some laughs with a new friend. Jess had missed this interaction with people and for a moment it made her relize just how alone she was. Straghting for a moment and pushing the feeling away Jess just smiles.

As She feels Rocky looking down on her Jess leans back a little and looks back up at him. Her eyes meeting his as they linger for a long moment, and the smile staying on her face. His eyes were so luring and soft Jess felt like she could look into them forever. Finally as Rocky pulls away Jess stands walking slowly to the door. Taking Rocky's number in her hand she can feel her cheeks turn a shade of red. This was the first time a guy had given her his number and though it might have been nothing more than a friendship thing the color came anyways. In a soft voice she reply.

"Ok, thank you. Have a good Night Rocky"

Closing the door behind him Jess just stands in her quiet apartment for a moment holding the paper in her hand. Turning Jess goes into her room and sinks down on the bed. Everything seemed so quiet now and for the first time Jess felt very alone. Picking up her phone she she dials the number that were written on the paper. Feeling a bit strange she trys not to pay attachen to it. Waiting for Rocky to answer Jess cant help her nervouse laugh.

"Hi, sorry to be calling you so soon but after you left I relized I forgot to thank you for the fun time as well so....thank you Rocky."

Hearing Austin's words hit a spot in Angel's heart. She had known at one point in time her and Austin had a strong attraction for eachother but differnt sercomstances always stood in the way of anything more than a friendship with him. Wendy was even named after a child Austin would of named his own. But over the time Angel had thought that, that feeling that they had so long ago had died but now it was clear for Austin it did not.

Standing Angel didnt want to go but she could feel her tiredness growing stonger as her head started to spin. She had to go before she passed out infront of Austin and made him worry but she couldnt just leave him there not like this...a little more time....she could stay a little more. She had to pushed herself and keep herself with it. Stepping a little closer to Austin Angel brings her hand to his face a brushs some hair from his eyes as she smiles.

"The point of staying in touch is I am your friend Austin and you need to stop letting the ghosts of the past follow you around. Life happens, and crap happens but we need to deal with it. I'll always care a great deal for you..."

Angel can feel herself growing weaker but she had to finish what she was saying she had to stay strong.

"..that will never change Austin. At work you know what your doing, but maybe your trying to hard. Ease up a little and just, let everyone be who they are ment to be there. Your a good guy and a bit a great boss, but your trying to...h..."

Trying to finishs her statment Angel withdraws her hand from Austin's face and brings it to her own head and everything starts to spin and the room goes out of focue and black than back in again...No not like this....

"I...I have to go."

Taking a step forward Angel's knees buckel as she can feel herself falling twords the ground though she sinks into the coution of the coutch for a moment just falling silent. Keeping her eyes closed she trys to regain her equilibreum and stop everything from spinning. Finally after a few moments she opens her eyes again and looks up at Austin. Worry layed in her eyes as if crying for help because there master wouldnt ask.

"I'm ok. I guess I am just more tired than I thought. Probley should be heading back now. Maybe tomarrow we can do lunch?"

Don't make me

Rocky settles back on the couch, grabbing the bottle of water that Jess had brought him. He grins at her comment. "Of course I have good taste. I'm not a movie buff for nothing." He takes a swig of his water and joins in eating some of the chips, remaining fairly quiet during the moving, but several times he can't contain his laughter, watching some of the funny scenes.

As the credits start to roll, Rocky stifles a yawn. Leaning back in the couch, he stretches out, somewhere along the line having taken off his shoes.

Glancing at his watch, he gives Jess a sidelong glance. "Well..." He sighs and leans down to slip his shoes back on. "Guess when the credits start rolling, the evening inevitably must come to an end."

Turning, he gives her a little grin. "Not that I want it to." His eyes reach hers, a gentleness to his gaze, while mixed with the glint of pleasure, proving that even though the evening had been chaotic earlier, he'd ended up enjoying his time with her.

He hopes that Jess will be comfortable alone now, though knows that regardless, it was late, and he should go home.

Standing up, he grabs his empty water bottle, and wanders to the kitchen to find the garbage. Ambling back to the living room, he leans over the back of the couch, cocking his head to see Jess' face. "I know you asked me to stay so I could keep an eye on things for a while, but if I left without thanking you for the good time I had, I'd feel badly."

A smile forms. "Thanks, Jess. You're a special person. Don't let anybody tell you different."

Searching her eyes, the next moment is quiet until he finally straightens up as if prying himself away. Heading to the door, he stops at the small table to grab a piece of scratch paper and a pencil, jotting down his number. "If you need anything... don't hesitate, alright? Bad enough we got goons like those lame robbers running around - I don't want to find out something happened and you didn't call."

Donning his jacket, he pauses at the door, his hand resting on the knob. His voice is low and soothing. "Goodnight, Jess."


Austin looks down at Angel's hand that rested on his arm, growing quiet again. He finally reaches over with his other hand, to give hers a soft squeeze before withdrawing. He looks up at her eyes for a moment, but then drops his gaze once more.

"I don't know how I am anymore," he admits quietly. "The world just gets harder and harder to deal with."

His eyes still down, his shoulders drop a little, signaling that his resistance is failing. "I miss the past too. I made a lot of stupid mistakes... but at least I had a goal. Now... now it's all just gray. The world hates me, and now those around me are starting to hate me too."

Angel's question once again of why he didn't stay in touch lingers on the air. "Why stay in touch with the untouchable?" he asks softly. He stares at the floor. "I have nothing left, Angel."

Austin finally looks up to meet Angel's eyes, his own begging her not to make him tear open wounds that no one had known even existed. "Don't make me tell you how stupid I feel... don't make me tell you how I think of the past every night, just wishing I could wake up and it would all be a dream, so I could change the choices I made. Don't make me tell you the things that I have no right to anymore."

Feeling old

Grabbing two bottles of water from the fridge Jess turns and grabs the bag from the counter and heads out of the kitchen to the living room. Standing in the door way for a moment Jess just watches Rocky as he plays around with the dvd playing knowing he didnt know she was there.

It was intresting watching him. Jess didnt know why or what it was but something was differnt about Rocky and it made her feel comfortable. Just watching him take the inisitive to figure something out without worry and the vibe that he was relaxed as well was new and it felt good.

Finally entering the rest of the way into the livingroom Jess smiles.

"Hey, it was a good guess! I mean hey who dosnt like chips? I would take them over popcorn any day. I hate the way popcorn squeezs when I chew on it."

Sitting down on the coutch Jess gets herself comfortable handing one of the bottles of water to Rocky and setting the chips on the table. Turning for a moment Jess just looks at Rocky just trying to figure him out.

Shaking her head she decieds not to bother anymore and just in joy the peace she felt and the company she had.

"What movie did you pick?"

Leaning forward and looking at the movie case she gives a nod.

"Ohh this is one of my fav. You have good tast my dear friend."

Finally as the movie starts Jess falls quiet though stealing a glance at Rocky when she could and reaching for chips every now and than.

Angel gives a nod as she listens to Austin but she cant help the feeling that maybe there was something that ran deeper than what he was saying. Over the years she had been able to lean differnt things about her close friends and how to tell this or that about them an now was one of those times. Though she would never out right ask Austin.

"Mmmm...I understand what your saying but everyone over at TJY are use to the old way of running things and a certin set of rules. They are use to being all equil, and going with the flow. Having somethig happen and change so fast can really be a shock to there system. Just like if Rosetta was to change things at the ranch in a matter of a few days I might be having my own problems getting use to the new way. Sometimes takig it alot is better than jumping right into things."

Stopping and thinking for a moment Angel looks up at Austin for a long moment just thinking. How time had gone by. Ages and so much had been delt with. Sometimes Angel wished they were young again everything seemed so easy to talk about than. Though she new it was just not possable. Laying a soft hand on Austin's arm she just looks up at him stairing into his tired eyes.

"How are you really? Its been so long, and life has been so hard for us both. Now sitting here I can see it in your eyes. We want life to slow down so we can keep up but its just passing by. We arnt as young as we use to be and I can feel it now. I miss my friend and the time we shaired. I just dont want to much time to go by and than it be to late to still shair what life I have left with my best friend.. How come when you left Texas you lost touch again?"

A deeper meaning layed in Angel's eyes. One that was almost sad. She was getting older now, and she could feel it. Some days it just hurt to move. Was her time slowly coming to an end? Though she wasnt THAT old the thought lingered with her anyways.

Maybe

Rocky hesitates just a moment, then relents and takes off his jacket, hanging it up. Ambling to the living room, he looks around at some of Jess' things, getting to know her personality through her decor.

Hearing Jess' offer of something to drink, he hollers back to her. "Um... just water. I've had enough caffeine to keep me up for three nights."

Wandering to the shelf of movies as directed, he runs his fingers along the titles, looking for something to watch, and trying to get an idea of what Jess' tastes are. Landing on a comedy, he pulls it out, a grin forming. "After this harry evening, I think we could use a good laugh," he comments wryly.

While Jess is still in the kitchen, Rocky takes the initiative to figure out the DVD player and pop in the disc. Moving back, he eases down at one end of the couch, looking around for the remote and finally finding it. Picking it up, he looks at the buttons for a moment, figuring out how to get everything running.

His ears perk up to the sound of Jess moving around in the kitchen. "Okay... there's nothing like the sound of a rustling bag of chips," he comments loudly. "How'd you know I have a weakness for things salty and crunchy?"

A grin spreads on his lips as he waits for her to join him.


Austin watches Angel as she speaks, a strange tension evident on his face. He wasn't upset with her... not even close. He could never be upset with her.

At her mention of him not being in contact with her, his eyes finally drop, guilt creeping up on him again. She had been his friend for a long time... a whole world of events had passed between them. It was hard to believe how much they'd lived through. And yet, he'd pulled away... again.

Standing up, Austin paces for a moment, seeming unsettled. Turning around at Angel's coughing, a look of genuine worry crosses his face until she's quieted down again. Folding his arms across his chest, he looks down at her, taking deep breath and letting it out slowly.

"Well, I don't know what you've heard," he finally responds quietly. "But I'm doing my best. I know feelings have been hurt, and toes have gotten stepped on. But sometimes that's the only way to do things, and to run a place like the Elite efficiently. Maybe no one else sees where I'm coming from - but they're gonna have to trust me. As for seeing what I do..."

He gives a little shrug. "I took over for Carter. I keep things going here. Not a whole lot to see."


Phil steps into the dark apartment, hearing music coming from the living room. After tossing his keys on the table, he enters, finding the stereo going, and Kyle sacked out, face down on the couch. Sighing, he goes to him, sitting on an empty cushion. "Kyle?" Not getting a response, he picks up the stereo remote to turn it off. "Kyle?" He gives his brothers leg a light whack. "Come on. I want to talk to you."

Kyle had known as soon as Phil had walked in the door, but had hoped that he wouldn't have to talk to him. It was inevitable though.

Pushing himself up, he swings his legs over and sits up a bit wearily, his eyes remaining down. "What?"

Phil takes a moment. "Look... I'm sorry I reacted the way I did earlier. I don't want to let this go - us being at odds."

Kyle shrugs lamely. "It was all my fault. I shouldn't have kept the whole thing a secret. I just... I didn't want anybody's feelings to get hurt, or make a big deal out of the whole thing." He gives a short, dry laugh. "Though I did all of that anyway."

Phil grins a little. "I guess I can see your reasoning... now that I've thought it through. We were all just... surprised. Proud though."

Kyle turns to look at his brother for a moment. "And Jason?"

"He... had a bad spell. Mike had to take him and Katie to see Rick. Last I heard they were okay though."

"It was my fault."

"No it wasn't." Phil looks at him sternly. "I want to know more, Kyle. I didn't know you could sing like that, and I feel bad if you thought all this time you had to hide that talent. But for now... I just want to call a truce. We'll talk things through and if you don't want anything to change, so be it. If we do change things, then maybe it's time JetStream did something different, I don't know. And we'll talk to Jason too. I'm sure he'll be fine."

Kyle manages half a smile. "Sorry about all this."

"Me too. But... now it's time to move on, alright? I don't like fighting."

"Neither do I."

"You did sound good." Phil smiles. "Logan will be jealous."

Kyle chuckles. "Maybe."

For no one...

Entering her apartment the warmth his her and she smiles. It was nice knowing she had a home to come to and now have to worry if it was going to be infact warmer here than outside. Taking her jacket off Jess hangs it on the coat rack the way by the door and slips her shoes off.

It was strange to fell so comfortable with having Rocky in the house. The last guys she was even remotly comfortable having in her house was Carson but something about Rocky was just differnt.

Turning to Rocky before she heads into the kitchen she smiles and gives a nod.

"You can hang your jacket up there if you want, and the living room is right through there. You can make yourself comfortable."

Heading into the kitchen she pulls a bag of chips out of the cupboard and than goes to the fridge. Glancing in it her eyes scan over the few items there along with a few bottles of beer. Knowing better than to even offer one to Rocky Jess just skips over that option. Calling into the other room she inquires.

"I have Pepsi, Mountain Dew, water and I wouldnt trust the milk. Also the movies are to the left of you if you would like to pick one out."

Sitting down on the couch Angel makes herself comfortable. This had been the first time she had been in Austin's house. Looking around the room at the differnt things he had collected over the years she holds a smile on her face till her eyes come back to Austin.

"Ah, Luke is probley missing me something tarrable right now, but he's a good guy. I am sure if he could of he would of come too. Though I have to addmit a nice change in scene is nice."

Feeling the suddin awkwardness Angel find it odd for a moment. She had never felt this before and it makes her wonder. Austin and her had been best of friends for ages and after all this time one would think there would be no awkwardness.

At Austin's comment about this being more than a social call it hits a cord with Angel and her smile drops for a moment. A suddin twinge hit her. Austin almost seemed upset and she had to addmit it hurt a little to think that.

"I am a scout for no one Austin and I have to say I am a bit hurt to think that you would think that. After all this time I would think you new me better than that."

As fast as the smile went Angel puts it back on though it seemed a little harder now.

"I came to see how my long time friend was doing. I was worryed because after everything I was hearing it didnt seem like the man I once new. I just wanted to make sure you were ok. Not to mention once you left Texas again you failed to keep in touch and that made me worryed as well."

In all truth she was worryed. Angel didnt mean to be nosey, or pry but she was worryed about Austin and as his friend she wanted to make sure he was ok. Things like this had happend before and if it was happening again where The Agency was getting themselfs under peoples nail Angel wanted to know and help all she could.

Going into a coughing fit Angel is silent for a moment, the echos of coughing was the only thing hurt. Finally finished it almost hurt to talk but she pushed on anyways.

"Besides you always got to see what I did for work. I wanted to see what you did now too."

Not sure

Axel gives Jess a little grin at the mention of the rainbow, then bids her goodnight, along with Rocky. Watching them leave, he keeps an eye out until both vehicles are gone.

Carson pauses with his broom to quirk an eyebrow. "Rainbow?"

Axel shakes his head with a bit of humor. "Long story." He glances around the restaurant. "I know you said you could handle this on your own, but... let me help?"

Carson thinks for a moment and finally nods. "Alright. You can go in the back room and see if you can find some plastic and duct tape. We gotta get this window covered up."


Rocky follows Jess outside and chuckles at her mention of not driving too fast. Getting into his own car, he's more than ready to keep up, and follows her to her apartment.

Not turning the engine off, he's ready to pull away from the parking lot, but he stops as Jess approaches. Rolling the window down and receiving her request, he just looks her in the eye for several minutes. His own gaze has a gentle strength about it... strong with courage, yet mild and caring. He knew her intentions were pure.

"Sure," he finally agrees quietly. "There's no need for me to rush on home."

Shutting off the engine, he pulls out his keys and exits his car to follow Jess into her apartment. Entering behind her, he lets her turn on the lights, just scanning the room to take in the surroundings as he closes the door lightly.

Putting his keys in his jacket pocket, he wanders forward a little, not sure if Jess really intended for him to settle in for a while or just wait until she felt comfortable on her own again.

Late

Shaking her head Charlotte just leans her back on the counter as she listens to her husband a quirky grin on her face.

"Well I guess I am gonna have to sit down and have a talk with these guys. Have to let them know there is no rough housing while I am around. Gonna have to put my foot down solid."

Letting the silence linger for a moment and hearing nothing She gives a laugh.

"I was only kidding. I can see this means alot to you, and there a new light in your eyes. I am happy this makes you happy. Not to mention when I told everyone at work that my husband was a race car driver they all went gaga and told me if you make it big I'll get to travel all over the place with you."

Seeing as how this was the last week she would be working at the cave just helping them shut down fold the winter months Charlotte saw no problem with her being able to watch Bret race. Finding a temp job would be no problem and she had already agreed with Bret to only be working part time for now.

Turning around again she takes the flowers and set them over on the table gaving them on last look and just smiling. Than hearing her statment about being prefect makes her smile grow that much more as her heart fluttered.

Grabbing her leather jacket and putting it on Charlotte heads to the bathroom and just leans on the door frame as she watches her husband get ready.

Crossing her arms she teases just a little.

"Its been past 10 min you know your late."

Giving a nod to Rocky she agrees to letting him follow her home. After tonights avents she was a little shook up and knowing that someone was close behind her would bring a little bit of comefort. Turning back to Axel she gives a shake of her head.

"Maybe tomarrow I can see a double rainbow at lunch. I hurd that pizza place down the road is not to bad."

Turning again Jess new no one alse would know what she said but the one who she was talking to would.

"Ok lets head out. I'll talk to you later Axel and thank you for the invite."

Leaving the restront Jess heads to her car, but before getting in she grins as she turns in the direction Rocky was walking.

"I'll try not to be a speed demon so you can keep up."

Pulling out of the driveway Jess squiels her tired and jets out of the parking lot. Heading down the road she makes sure she dosnt go to fast. It dosnt take to long to get to get apartment and Jess pulls into her parking lot. Sitting in the car for a moment Jess thinks before finally getting out. She was still a bit shaken and it probley would not be a while till she fell asleep.

Finally getting out ok the car Jess heads over to Rocky's car and taps on the window. Waiting for him to roll it down Jess leans on it for a moment.

"Thanks you very much for the escort. "

Thinking for a moment again she gives a small smile.

"This might be forward of me and if it is I am sorry but would you like to come in for a little bit? I dont have much but maybe we could shair a soda and watch a movie or something? It will be a while before I head to bed."

Jess was nervouse about asking Rocky inside and she was not sure why. She felt a bit shaky as well. It could of been the cold wind or the fact she was still a bit shook up but she wasnt to sure thats what it was. She herself wasnt even sure why she was asking him. She hardly new him but just something about how he had protected her tonight had put a feeling of being safe around him in her. Standing there she waits for Rocky's reply hoping he wont think ill of her for asking.

Escort

Bret grins and peeks into a mirror by the hall. He hadn't seen the small streak of grease on the side of his face, nor the rest of the grime. "Okay," he relents. "I'll wash my face. But you'll have to blame Noah. We sorta had a brawl... Well... I guess maybe it was Landon's fault. But that was after..."

His voice trails off and he gives Charlotte a sheepish look. "What can I say... boys will be boys."

Shaking his head, he aims for the bathroom. "Ten minutes. But my stomach won't last any longer than that."

Once in the bathroom though, he pokes his head out again to holler back to the kitchen. "You, on the other hand, look perfect. Don't change a thing."



Austin just stands awkwardly for a moment. He shouldn't be surprised that Angel had dropped by, but for some reason it had caught him off guard. Besides that, he couldn't help but be just a little bit suspicious. No on from the ranch had talked to him lately... did they know everything that had been happening, and if they did, what were they saying about him?

At Angel's last comment, he tried to bring himself back to attention. "No. No, for pete's sake. I was dosing, but it's not too late. Not like I got an exciting night life or something."

He closes the door and gestures for Angel to come into the living room and sit down as he turns on an extra light. Switching off the television, he eases down in another chair, just studying her for a moment. "Surprised Luke let you come to Nevada without him," he muses with a slight teasing tone. It doesn't go over as well as intended though, and he drops his gaze, suddenly feeling awkward.

Looking back up at Angel, he purses his lips in thought. "There's more to this than just a social call isn't there..." He sighs deeply. "You a scout for the others, or come of your own accord?"


Rocky searches Jess' eyes for a moment, making sure that she was telling the truth when she said she was okay. Pursing his lips, he gives her a little reassuring nod, his body visibly relaxing after knowing the chaos was over. Few would notice that he starts to reach out to give Jess' arm a pat, but then withdraws instead.

"Talk about an evening... You're never gonna want to hang out with this bunch again," he teases.

Axel's knowledge that Jess is alright puts him a bit more at ease, and he gives her a crooked grin. "Good. Thought for a minute there you might wind up with some broken bones."

Rocky smirks at him. "I was just reacting. You wouldn't have done differently if you'd been the one standing there."

"I might have at least shoved her away from the glass." Though keeping a straight face, Axel's eyes prove that he's only kidding around.

Rocky rolls his eyes and sighs, turning to Jess. "My apologies if I was too rough. I'm just glad you're alright."

"And yes," Axel interrupts to finally answer Jess' question. "Everyone else is too. Jen's pretty shook up, but she'll be alright. Phil's going to take her home and make sure she gets settled okay."

"Hey, guys..." Carson joins the threesome as the police cars start away from the scene, leaving them in peace. For now, he had pasted on a pleasant expression, not letting Axel's earlier words get to him just yet. He slings an arm around Jess to give her a little squeeze, knowing he's the only one in the room who could get away with that at the moment. "Bet you wish you woulda stayed home."

"Well, she would have missed an awfully good concert," Rocky muses.

Carson chuckles and lets Jess go. "Yeah well... now I get to spend a long night here."

"You want help?" Axel offers. "Be glad to."

Carson shakes his head. "Naw, that's alright. Not much you can do. I just have to sweep up all this glass and put some plastic up or something. Herb's not gonna be happy, but at least this time it wasn't my fault."

The four are interrupted for just a moment as Phil calls to them, letting them know that he and Jen are leaving. Once they're gone, Rocky gives a deep sigh. "Well... Axel, you ready for a ride home?"

Axel shakes his head. "Thought I'd walk tonight."

Rocky shakes his head in wry annoyance. "You and your walking. Alright, fine." He turns to Jess. "I can follow you home if you like," he offers. "Just to make sure no other bizarre storms roll through."

"She is the bizarre storm," Axel quips.

"What?"

Axel almost chuckles and tosses Jess a wink. "Nothing."

Rocky lets it drop and simply looks to Jess with question, not knowing if she was the type to want an escort or not.

Carson moves to pick up his broom again, starting to calculate just how he was going to patch this up for the night and make it livable for the next day.

Ok...

"I can't wait to go with you. From all the talk it seems like a great time just watching as much as it is driving."

Watching Bret head for the door Charlotte's smile stays on her face as her eyes twinkle in the light from the kitchen. Taking a step forward to payfuly swat Bret away She laughs before turning back around to place her flowers in a vase calling over her shoulder.

"We can go to the nice Greek dinner right down the road if ya want. Its will be a nice dinner but no you dont have to change."

Turning again Charlotte eyes Bret and his dirt covered cloths. Shaking her head she just smiled. Who cared what Bret looked like. In clean closes or dirty he was still the man she loved and having him there with here was all she wanted.

Charlotte's smile turns into a playful grin as she jokes.

"At least wash the dirt off you face though ok? I want to not have to squint to see those handsome eyes of yours."

Smiling back at Austin as he opens the door Angel steps into side. Glancing at her watch she relizes just what time it was. My how the time had slipped by without here even relizing it.

"Hey you. Sorry I showed up so late. I didnt even relize what time it was."

Stepping farther into the house she sets her small bag she was carrys down on Austins table. Before turning back to him. Was something wrong? Now that was a question to ask...yes something was wrong, many things were wrong but now was not the time to bring most of them up.

"Oh no nothings wrong I just hadnt seen ya in a while and I guess I wanted to. I wasnt able to catch you at work."

She wasnt lieing at the moment, other than being tired she felt fine and didnt think anything was wrong. So it was a little white lie and she new it, but Angel hadnt come here to talk about her problems. She had come to see her friend she hadnt seen in a while and make sure everything was ok with him after she had been told from Misty about everything that had been going on.

"If its to late I can come back another time its not a problem."

Driving down the street Misty had really no destination in mind. She was tired but she didnt want to sleep let alone even know if she could. The darkness called to her lonly heart. She wasnt even sure if she really was lonly or not. She felt happy in the morning but when the darkness came so did the feeling.

Coming to a look out not many people know about and only one other person had been there with her before Misty gets out of her car to make the short climb. Sitting on the egde of the peace of wood Misty stairs into the harizone where she new the sun would come. Sometimes sitting , thinking and waiting for the pretty in the world was a good way to spend the hours.

Not moving, or opening her eyes a soft smile forms on Katie's sleeping lips and Jason's arm wraps around her. Though she was asleep subcontuly she could still feel him and it braught her instint comfort.

Bring her hand to the one that was wrapped around her Katie places her hand ontop of Jasons. Tonight she would sleep in peace and the whole night through.

..Feeling Rockys hand on her her shoulder and seeing the men Jess freezes. In a situation like this Jess though of others more than her ownself. The fear that ran threw here were for these people she had just met and for Jen. How hard it was to sit by and watch as a gun was help to her head. Knowing you were helpless to stop anything, but also knowing better than to move.

Just watching Jess stays still not sure everything thats going on but only catching bits and peaces of Axel and Carson's conversation. The glances here and there from Axel and knowing Rocky was beside her gave her the confadince not to pass out yet her fear ran high.

As everything starts to go down and Jess is pushed to the floor by Rocky Jess lets out a little shreak. Feeling herself shake underneath Rocky Jess holds her eyes closed tight waiting for the whole thing is over.

Finally as Rocky lifts himself off of her and helps her stands Jess looks around at the mess. Her heart still raced face as everything was still clear in her mind. Looking to Rocky Jess gives the best smile she can as her eyes lock with Rockys for a moment.

"Yeah I think I am ok, just pretty shook up."

Wrapping her own arms around herself she turns her head face as Axel comes over. Giving another smile.

"Yeah I think I am. Is everyone alse ok?"

Hesitation

Bret keeps his arms around Charlotte, a smile spreading at her forgiveness. "It was good," he replies. "No... it was great." His eyes shine again, proving his passion for the sport. "But it will be even better next time... because I'm going to insist you go with me."

Giving her a tight squeeze, he finally lets her go and aims for the door. "Your pick on where we go..." He stops, turning back around to throw her a teasing look. "Just as long as I don't have to change my clothes."


Austin is roused from his drowsy state as he sits on the couch. The tv was still going, but he was unsure of the time. What had woken him anyway?

Suddenly it dawns on him that it had been the door. Someone was here.

Rising quickly, he stubs his toe on the coffee table and stumbles forward, wincing and holding back the curse that wanted to come. Trudging in his stocking feet, jeans and wrinkled tee, he makes it to the door, unlocking the deadbolt, then the knob.

Opening it just as crack, he squints in the dim light. But instantly his eyes widen. “Angel?”

His shock is evident, and he quickly pushes open the screen and steps aside, inviting her inside. “What are you doing here?” he asks, confused. “Someone said you’d been working with Misty, but…” He lets his sentence trail off, realizing that to say he hadn’t had time to see her sounded like he cared a whole lot less than he really did.

“I mean…” He searches her tired eyes, his own slowly revealing the mixed emotions that no one had been allowed to see lately. “Is anything wrong?”


Kyle watches Misty as she speaks, his eyes on a journey, searching for feelings... searching for meaning. Though standing motionless, it felt as though he were reaching out, only inches away from what he most wanted, but he could not stretch far enough to overcome the distance.

He knew Misty was trying to soften the blow. He knew she was trying to encourage him despite what this evening had become. He knew it in his mind, but his heart had yet to accept it. It was such a foreign feeling to him. He'd never gotten close to any woman other than Misty, and now it was misery that spoke to him, telling him why that was. He hated the pain. He hated feeling the fool.

Better to have loved and lost? Tonight it felt like a poor lyric, lost in an ocean of pain that could really care less about feeling better right now.

But rather than lash out with sarcasm like he wanted, he refrained. Misty was doing her best, and he had to respect that.

Watching her walk away, he just stands, helpless to stop this chain of events. Still not moving, he watches Misty get into her car, his eyes following the taillights until they disappear down the street. There was noise all around. Cars, people, dogs barking... but it was all drowned out, leaving Kyle in an empty world of silence.

He finally takes a deep breath and turns around to go back to his truck. Though he wanted to scream, he didn't. Though he wanted to hit something, he didn't. So much more had happened tonight than the simple concert it had been intended to be. So much more was going on in his heart and mind than anyone knew about. It was just so... hard.


Rick is gentle with his words to Katie. He hated seeing his friends like this. "I'm not positive why it was different, Katie. I've just been trying to help you guys based on my own theories. But I think what happened tonight was that Jason's emotions got to the boiling point, but they couldn't erupt like usual. Because they feed off his flashbacks... but he'd succeeded in burying those memories too deeply and wasn't letting them surface. So... it was just like he was a time bomb there, gaining more and more pressure. You helped release enough energy to pull him partway out of it, but it wiped you out, and then I..."

He sighs and shakes his head, still feeling rotten, even if it had been necessary. "...I provoked Jason's flashbacks. Once it occurred, the aftermath was the same."

Jason's eyes are down, even though he receives Katie's attempt to reassure him.

It's not going to be okay. Not as long as this keeps happening. What would have happened if Rick hadn't been around? We both could have died tonight, Katie... There's got to be a way to stop this.

When Katie relents to staying all night, Scott glances to Rick, questioning the arrangements. He didn't feel put out in the least - he simply didn't know where he fit tonight.

Rick thinks for a moment, letting a pause linger as the tension continues to settle down. "Jase, why don't you..."

"I'll take the spare room," Scott interrupts. "That way, you can... stay here and watch or... or whatever."

Rick lifts an eyebrow, noting that it was one of the first times he'd seen Scott take initiative in a long time. "You sure you're okay with that?"

Scott nods, even though a knot had formed in his stomach. "Just as long as I can keep the door open... if that's okay."

"Sure it is. I'll keep my eye open too and so will Hal. If you need anything, you just holler, okay?"

Scott stands up and glances to Katie. "I hope you feel better in the morning," he offers quietly. His eyes roam to Jason where he gives a little nod, then heads slowly out the infirmary door to the next room down where there was a bed.

Rick turns to Jason. "There's some blankets there in the closet. Help yourself. There's a folded cot in there too - it would be softer than the examining table if you want. I'm going to go make sure Scott gets settled and check in with Hal. Then I'll be around for the night."

Jason is quiet and when Rick leaves, he slides off the table to get some clean blankets. Moving to Katie first though, he sits down on the edge of the bed, now alone with her. Looking at her tired eyes, he takes her hand for a moment.

I really am sorry. Even when I know better, I keep messing this thing up. Even when I think I know how to handle it, I somehow manage to fail and put us both through this all over again. I know you don't like me apologizing, but... let me, okay?

Leaning down, he gives her lips a tender kiss. "Get some sleep," he advises quietly. "Tomorrow we'll both be feeling better."

Without even thinking twice, he helps Katie get her shoes off, then pulls the blanket up over her, tucking her in. He knows how tired she is, and knows that it will only be a matter of minutes before she's asleep. And it is...

Jason rolls over on the cot at the other end of the room, finding it uncomfortable. Fighting with the blanket, he tries out the floor next, but even though it doesn't hold the same bumps and lumps as the cot, it's cold. Despite his exhaustion, sleep just wasn't coming.

Frustrated, he tries the table again, but even with a warm blanket and soft pillow it doesn't provide enough comfort so his body can relax.

Rising once again, Jason sighs, blanket in hand. He could go to his office... his chair wasn't all that uncomfortable. And Rick would be in here to keep an eye on things, so his absence wouldn't matter.

Arriving at the doorway though, Jason stops. Turning around, he glances back to Katie's sleeping form. He didn't want to leave her. Not tonight.

A sigh is followed by him turning back inside. Making up his mind, he eases down quietly behind Katie, pulling his own blanket over himself. Curling up on his side, he reaches around Katie's waist from behind, gently with a strong arm to tuck her closer next to him, sharing the edge of her pillow. Feeling her heartbeat next to him, his eyes fall closed, and almost instantly, he's asleep.

Rick wanders back into the infirmary and for a moment, he thinks Jason is gone. Then spotting him with Katie, a small smile forms. Those two had something special... and Rick wouldn't interfere this time. He'd leave them be tonight.


Gram returns to the kitchen, opening her mouth to say something, but stops, pausing in the doorway. Looking down at her grandson, her face softens.

She'd left him five minutes ago at the table with a plate of freshly-baked cookies and a glass of milk. Usually, that was plenty of time for him to down at least two of the cookies, and never mind how fast the milk would be gone. But tonight, both had gone untouched.

She walks up slowly behind him, knowing he knew she was there, even though he was bent forward with his head resting on his arms. Laying a hand on him, she gently rubs his back just like she used to do when he had been a child.

"What's wrong, Kyle?"

Kyle keeps is face hidden in his arms that rested on the table, but shakes his head slowly. "I don't know."

Gram runs her fingers up to his hair, but stops, a slight grin curling her mouth. "Did you use gel or super glue?"

Kyle can't help a light laugh, and finally straightens up. "Gel."

"Mm." Gram moves around to pull out another chair and sit across from him. Her words are quiet and unassuming. "Why aren't you out with your friends tonight?"

Kyle shrugs and reaches for a neglected cookie, nibbling at it slowly. At the moment, he could allow himself to dwell on the concert and not the rampant thoughts about him and Misty. "I guess I did something I shouldn't have."

"Like what?"

He shrugs again. "It's a long story, Gram. Don't really want to get into it now."

She nods, respecting his privacy. Taking a cookie for herself, she lets the silence go, wise enough to know that some portion of the story would come out.

Kyle traces a mark on the table with his thumbnail, remembering the time a platter had been dropped on it, making a notch in the table. He and Phil had both gotten into trouble for that one.

Sighing, he finally takes a sip of his milk. "You ever do something that you always wanted to do, and felt so good about it... so proud of yourself... just to find out afterward that others were unhappy with it?"

Gram furrows her brow, chewing thoughtfully. "I don't think so..."

Kyle shoulders drop a little. Not that he'd expected her to say yes, but maybe he'd hoped for some understanding.

"...But your father did."

Kyle looks up quickly. The family could talk about his father, but usually didn't, especially when he was around. Usually the others avoided it for his sake, and he knew it. It was unusual for Gram to bring it up. "When?"

Gram chuckles. "He was a rebel, your father. Loved music. And I remember one time, he was in high school. He had joined a garage band." She smiles at the memory. "He didn't tell us about it though, because he knew we'd be against any kind of rock music at all. Oh, but he loved it... he loved it so much. And finally, one day, he decided that he'd show us just how far he'd come, and how good he was singing, and on his guitar."

A grin plays with the corner of Kyle's mouth. "But you didn't like it."

"We hit the roof." Gram starts to laugh, her eyes twinkling. "Oh my goodness. We walked out on the first song. The lyrics were fine and clean - they even sang good songs about God. But it was too loud, too rambunctious, and too close to rampant noise to us."

Kyle's grin comes out as Gram continues, imagining how it must have been.

"Your father came home afterward. Gramps and I were both ready to chew him out and tell him he'd never be allowed back in that band again. But I'll never forget the look on his face." Gram's expression sobers. "He had been crushed, because he knew we hated what he loved so much."

"So what happened?"

"We sat down and talked to him about it. Gramps and I decided that as long as the lyrics were good, and they were because your father had written most of them, that he could stay in the band."

Kyle gives a little laugh. He had never heard that story, and it was interesting to find out about it now. "I knew he liked to write music, but I didn't know he'd been in a band. What happened to them?"

"Well, I guess the guys all went their separate ways after high school, so it ended by itself." Gram lets out a long sigh. "But he'd had the experience of a lifetime, and had lived his dream to be in a band, even if it was on a small scale. He always was a go-getter, even after that. He was the one to go against the flow and be different, even when not everybody would follow him." She cocks her head, a gentle smile still present. "Out of all three of you siblings, you're the one that has carried on the Mitts spark, Kyle. Gramps has it, your father had it and you have it."

She pauses once more and reaches out to turn Kyle's head so she can see his eyes. "Ever since you were a baby, I knew you were the one that had that fire in you. But somehow... recently, something has started to snuff it out." The concern and love in her voice comes through. "Whatever happened tonight, Kyle... don't let it destroy your dreams."

Kyle swallows hard, finding it difficult to control his emotions. "But what if that dream isn't meant to be?"

"God doesn't give us dreams to taunt us, Kyle. There's always a reason." Gram gives him an encouraging smile. "But we can't always control the timing. Sometimes dreams take years and years to realize. Other times they come right away. And sometimes... they're realized even if we can't see it."

"What do you mean?"

"I knew a young man once who wanted to be a doctor so very badly. But... he didn't have the money to go to school. It was his dream to work in a big hospital and help people. But... it never happened."

Kyle furrows his brow, not sure where she was going with this. But he listens.

"Years later, he was sitting in church, just being a shoulder to someone who needed it, like he often did. And when he suddenly saw that he was helping so many people there, he realized that God truly had given him his dream. He had wanted to help people. He might not have been a doctor to do it. But he was indeed helping so many people. His dream did come true. It just came in a different package than he expected."

Kyle looks down for a moment, then back up, his half-grin having returned. "Gramps."

Gram nods. "Yes. Your father had a little dream that was realized early on, then stayed in his heart as a cherished memory until the day he died . Your grandfather had a dream that was realized in ways he couldn't imagine at the time." She pauses before extending her hand to place it over Kyle's heart. "And you have dreams too. I don't know what they are, but you do. And you're tempted to give up for whatever reason. But don't give up. God's got a plan for you. Maybe you made mistakes, and maybe things just aren't falling into place. But there's a path there...somewhere, there's a path. Don't let that fire in you die out."


Carson eyes Jess with suspicion. "You think I'd believe you were just an innocent bystander?"

After hearing Jess razz Joel, then receiving her wink, Rocky intervenes. "Well you can at least believe the part about the pizza," he teases.

"Yes, now that I do believe." Carson grins at Jess, while nodding to Axel. "Just don't let this scallywag fool you. If there's anyone who doesn't need protection, it's him."

"Hey." Axel gives him a withering look. "You're not helping me any here."

"I didn't think you needed any."

Axel stops for a moment. "Come to think of it, I don't. Aren't you supposed to be cooking or something?"

Carson grins. "Alright guys... what'll ya'll have?"

"Pizza!" Joel shouts.

"Hush up, Joel," Max chides. "Remember, you're not suppose to speak anymore tonight."

It's not long before Carson is serving them their pizza's, baked to perfection. Laughter and chatter surround the table with teasing, talk of the concert and more. Axel is the quietest of the group, but it's no surprise. Sitting at the far corner, he's the farthest away from any of the others. To some they might not think a thing of it - to the rest of Cryptic, they knew well that he'd created the space around himself that was most comfortable.

A war of straw wrappers breaks out at one point, but overall he table remains well-behaved into the late evening. Eventually, some eyes begin to grow heavy, and a round of yawns ensues. Max is the first to get up and stretch, admitting how tired he was. A slap to the back of Joel’s head, gets him to stand as well, and after quick farewells, the two take off for the night.

The talk is light and a bit sparse after they leave, most knowing they should call it a night, but no one really wanting to. Carson has joined them to sit and talk, the food long since gone.

During a lull in conversation, Rocky looks to Phil who had been fooling with his cell phone. “Problems?”

Phil shakes his head. “Nah…” He sighs and pockets the phone again. “Just trying to get a hold of Kyle.”

“No luck?”

“No… either he let his battery run down again, or he’s just ignoring me. Probably it’s the latter.”

Rocky purses his lips in thought. “Well… knowing Kyle, he’ll be alright. He probably just needs some time alone. Tomorrow I’ll…”

He’s unable to finish his sentence as suddenly, the front door flies open. Three men in ski masks barge in, sawed-off shotguns in hand. “Nobody move!” the ringleader barks.

Everyone at the table jumps, and Jen giving a slight shriek of surprise. The men are on their feet in an instant, but back off as the guns are pointed at them. Axel’s eyes are quick to take in the scene, every bit and piece burned into his memory. Rocky’s jaw tightens, the fear turning to adrenaline in his veins. He instinctively reaches down beside him to set a hand on Jess’ shoulder, warning her not to move.

One of the masked men throws a duffel bag on the floor, and nervously looks out the window. Sirens could be heard in the distance. The ringleader moves closer to the little group, threatening with his gun. “You folks just settle down here. As long as the cops cooperate, you’ll be out of here in no time.”

Carson’s hands are held to the sides like the others, his eyes glazed with anger. His mind works quickly. The bank down the street. Something must have gone wrong with a robbery, and now they were seeking shelter here until they came up with another plan. “Let us go,” he advises. “You don’t need us.”

“Shut up!” The man comes a step closer, seeming to enjoy the fact that the two women in the group were terrified. “Talk and you die. Got it?” Several nods seem to satisfy him, and he backs off just a little bit.

Phil eases back a couple steps closer to Jen, in an effort to keep her calm, even though fear and worry coursed through his eyes. Axel and Carson were left in the forefront, a barrier to the thieves. Only once does Axel dare to turn his head just enough that his peripheral vision could make sure Jess was okay behind him. Rocky gives him a little nod.

A cop car suddenly appears outside, and one of the men carelessly shoots. The front window of the restaurant shatters, a million pieces of glass flying in all directions. Jen cries out in surprise, sliding further to her brother in fright. Axel stands his ground in front of Jess, and Rocky beside her, forming a shelter, as Phil tries to keep Jen calm, and Carson remains cool despite the development. The policemen outside quickly exit their car and move to the back for protection, shouting orders.

The three men inside pace and grow more nervous. “Man, it wasn’t supposed to happen this way,” the short one complains.

“Shut it,” another growls.

“What are we gonna do? Heath never showed up, so we’re stuck here without a car, and…”

“Both of you idiots shut up!” The ringleader whirls around, threatening his partner. “We’ll get out of here, alright.” He moves to the small group again, aiming for Jen.

Phil blocks his path angrily. “Don’t you dare,” he threatens.

“Or what?” The thug laughs, pointing his gun at them. “Move,” he orders. “Or somebody dies.”

“Phil,” Carson directs quietly. “Do as he says.” He knew the desperation of these men. He knew that if the group didn’t cooperate, those thieves would have no problem in killing them. Though his own fear pumped through his veins, he kept it in check, letting logic rule his actions. “It’ll be okay.”

Jen quivers, but is helpless. Unable to stop anything, the others watch in sickening fear as the guy takes Jen’s wheelchair toward the entrance of the restaurant, stopping, then pointing his shotgun at her. “You cops out there!” he shouts. “Make a move, and the girl dies! Got it?!”

The next few minutes are tense and filled with a fear that none of the group had ever wanted to face. Though everything was happening quickly, it felt like an eternity. Phil’s eyes never move from his sister. Quiet tears run down Jen’s face as she waits, a silent prayer constantly on her lips. Rocky stands firm, but has no idea what to do, only able to offer a reassuring squeeze to Jess’ shoulder. Carson is still in the front, his eyes keeping track of every little move. And Axel’s gaze remains steady, first checking on Jess again to give a slight nod, then landing on Carson to study his movements.

More police arrive. Indeed, it has been a robbery gone bad. The thugs wanted a bargain – their freedom for the lives of those inside the restaurant. A negotiator arrived within another ten minutes, the ticking clock only serving to heighten the tension.

By now, Jen was kept with a shotgun pressed to her head, while the others were forced to remain where they were, not allowed to move. It was a nightmare that had taken over reality.

“…we’ll get you the helicopter,” the negotiator calls from the sidewalk. “But let one of the hostages go first.”

“No!” The ringleader tightens his grip on his gun. “Your tactics aren’t gonna work on me. I want what I asked for now! We’re not leaving until we get it, and we’re not letting anyone go!”

Carson’s eyes roam the room. He was feet away from one thug, the other was several more feet away with his focus on the back door, and then there was the one who had Jen. There was a cop outside with a gun drawn, aiming inside in case anything went down. A broom was in the corner. And it had been too long. If the thieves hadn’t given up now, they weren’t going to. The only thing that would happen is that someone would die, and the first to go would be Jen, if something didn’t happen, and soon.

Axel’s voice comes low enough that the thugs don’t hear. “You got it, don’t you?” He’d been studying Carson and could see the wheels had been turning.

Carson’s fingers flex by his sides. He did. He had it all mapped out, and knew exactly what it would take. It’s what he was good at. It’s what he was trained for. But he couldn’t do it.

Axel’s eyes stay glued to him. “Why are you hesitating?” he hisses.

“I can’t do it,” Carson whispers back, his voice wavering as he looks at Jen’s trembling form. “I left that behind.”

Axel grits his teeth, waiting until one of the thieves turned around before speaking quietly again. “You’re the only one who can end this, Carson, and you know it.”

Carson’s voice is desperate and strained. “But it’s not who I am anymore.”

“Are you going to let Jen die?” Axel wasn’t about ready to take excuses. Not now. He saw as much as Carson did, and could tell anyone exactly where any object was in the room. But he didn’t have the skills. He forces Carson to glance over to him to see his eyes. “For such a time as this.” His quote from Esther hits home. They’d just studied those verses last week.

Carson swallows hard. He could see the ringleader’s finger twitching on the trigger. Could he live with himself if Jen died, and he could have saved her? He knew the answer to that, and it was no.

His body tenses, his eyes narrowing. The policemen’s orders from outside is just the distraction he needs. Before any of the thugs could see him, he’s unbuckled his belt and ripped it through his jean’s belt loops. The middleman turns around at the sound.

“Hey, wha…”

Too late, the leather’s buckle-end is brought across his face, bringing his sentence to a wail of pain. His shotgun is dropped to the floor, and he falls to his knees.

Though seeing the guy in the back whirl around with his gun, Carson aims for the ringleader instead. A shot is fired.

Axel ducks, and Phil steps back. Rocky doesn’t hesitate, and in an instant, he’s knocked Jess to the floor to avoid the spray of buckshot, covering her protectively.

Carson dives and rolls a summersault, grabbing the broom in the corner. Another shot is fired – this time from a cop outside, just as Carson had predicted, and the second thief is taken down.

The ringleader is startled, his shotgun drawing away from Jen just far enough for Carson to take the risk. The broom handle goes up, and so does the gun, flying through the air. The thug hurls a curse at Carson and lunges at him.

Carson is hit hard, brought to the floor with a punch to his jaw. But his strength and expertise win out, and in an instant, he’s got the thief pinned to the floor, twisting the guy’s arm behind his back, and pressing a knee into his back.

By the time a police officer is relieving Carson, Axel has pulled one of the guys up off the floor who had a bloody face from the belt buckle, and the third is being dragged away with a bullet wound to the shoulder. Phil is immediately next to his sister, pulling her into a hug that’s returned with tears and trembling arms.

And… just as quickly as the reign of terror had descended on the restaurant, it ends, leaving a mess of broken glass, relief that lives had been spared, and a sickening reminder of what could have been.

Phil is taken to the side, a target for questioning by the police, while a female officer sees to Jen to make sure she’s alright.

Rocky withdraws from Jess to crouch next to her, helping her sit up, and brushing some broken glass out of her hair. His eyes are filled with worry and apology in case he’d scared her even more. Carefully, he helps her to her feet. “Are you okay?”

Carson looks around the room, making sure everything really was over, and ensuring that Jess was being taken care of as well. Axel follows his gaze, and is also reassured that she was not hurt or alone.

Looking back to Carson though, his eyes take on a different stare. “Good job.”

Carson smirks. “Bringing guys down isn’t something I should be that proud of.”

Axel sets his hands on his hips, able to see that this was so much bigger an issue than just this one event. “If it wasn’t for you, Jen would probably be dead right now.” He pauses in thought. “You have skills, Carson. Ever think maybe God gave them to you for a reason?”

Carson frowns. “But… who I was…”

“Being able to knock a guys block off wasn’t who you were,” Axel states flatly. “You had bad intentions. You beat guys up for all the wrong reasons.”

“Exactly. I don’t want to go back to that.”

“But you just proved that you can beat guys up for the right reasons.”

Carson bites his lip. “But…action… feels good.”

“So?” Axel shrugs. “It’s in your blood. Actions aren’t the problem, don’t you see that?” He shakes his head. “You have passions, taught or inbred, it doesn’t matter. The more you try to change your core, the worse time you’re going to have. Stop trying to leave behind you, Carson. Leave behind the bad intentions and the bad habits. But don’t leave behind the man who was strong… the man who will jump into the fire just because he likes to prove he won’t get burned.”

Carson cocks his head, a smile quirking just the corner of his mouth. “That’s about the most you’ve ever said in one setting.”

Axel gives a soft chuckle. “Maybe. But do you see what I’m trying to say?”

“I don’t know.”

“There was a reason you were here tonight,” Axel emphasizes. “You can use your skills and your passions for good. Give up the bad. Don’t give up you.”

“But I was the bad.”

“No you weren’t.” Axel shakes his head, almost frustrated. “Your intentions were.”

Carson groans and rubs his forehead tiredly. “I’m just glad everyone is okay and safe, and it’s over. Why are we talking about me anyway?”

Axel is quiet for a moment. “Because you hesitated.”

Carson lifts his eyebrows, but doesn’t have time to respond as he’s approached by a police officer to take down some extra information.

Axel leaves him be, and wanders back to the table where Rocky and Jess were. He looks at her with a bit of concern, his eyes searching her own. Though he could see Rocky had been helping her, the redundant question still rose. “You alright?”

Finished with the officer, Carson looks around to Phil, Jen, then Axel, Jess and Rocky. The restaurant was a total mess. He’d be here for hours cleaning up for the morning. Everything had happened so quickly. But now there was one thing that bothered him more than anything else. He really had hesitated. He’d hesitated to save someone’s life. Had he really gone that far? Had he really walked that far away from who he used to be? That didn’t feel right either. Was Axel right? Were there parts of himself that he could still hold onto that weren’t bad in themselves?

Free Pizza

Misty heart sinks just a little as Kyle's own words are returned to her. It hurt and no matter what it would always hurt time and time again no matter how many times ones heart would have to go through it.

"We all learn from our mistakes huh? I guess thats the most important thing of all. The saying goes "Its better to have love and lost than to never love at all." Sometimes I wonder if it would be better to just never love. But than I remember that even if I lost some people, I would of missed out on getting to know them and shairing something special."

A small smile plays on Misty's lips as she remembers the good times she has had with a few differnt people including Kyle. Giving a shake of her head Misty isnt sure what alse she should say. Where would things go from here she did not know, how things would end was on the wind and all she could do was blow with it.

Giving a sigh Misty turns and just stands a moment before walking away.

"Your gonna make some girl very happy Kyle Mitts and she is gonna be so lucky. I'll envy her but I'll also he happy for the both of you."

Whiping on last tear from her eye Misty continues to make her way to her car. Sitting for just a moment before driving away.

Standing at the counter Charlotte is lost in thought about differnt things. Starting out the day fighting with Bret had only been the motion that mad the ball roll. The rest of the day hadnt been the greatest eather.

Feeling Bret's arms around her just startles her for a moment but than she relaxes as she is snapped out of her deep thought. Charlotte takes the flowers from Bret a smile spreading across her face. He always new just what to do to make her feel good again.

Looking down at the coin that layed on the counter her grin grows even more as she places the flowers on the counter and turns around to face Bret. Bringing her arms around his neck Charlotte just looks back into his eyes for a moment.

"Of course I forgive you how could I not?"

Bringing her lips to Bret Charotte let her kiss show that she did as well. Bret was the love of her life and she could ask for nothing more. There was no way she could be mad with him forever. Pulling away again she smiles.

"How was everything at the track?"

Just laying on her back in the bed Katie just looks up at the sealing for a long moment listing as Jason makes it into the bathroom. Everything felt so differnt this time and Katie felt so tired. She new that something had happend with Jason and she had put herself on the line for him but what was it? In a horse whisper Katie's voice can be hurd. It hurt to talk but she had to.

"Rick what happened? It was differnt this time."

Though she asked her question to Rick Katie could feel Jason was done in the bathroom she felt ok to talk to him.

It's ok J, really it is. I new the risk when I did it and I would do it again if it ment helping you. Please dont blame youself.

Jason didnt need to say it and Katie already new he would be blaming himself and though she tryed to reasure him it was not it never worked.

Just laying on the bed a while longer Katie is quiet untill Jason comes out of the bathroom. Turning her head she trys to give him her best smile.
Its gonna be ok J.

Hearing Rick's question for a moment Katie is quiet. Sleeping in her own bed sounded gramd right about now but she new if she tryed moving it would only her let alone knowing if her legs could hold her up. If they didnt that would only make Jason feel worse and Katie didnt want that.

"I think for tonight I am going to stay here, if thats ok."

As Carson mess with Jess hair she turns around and gives him a swat to the arm giving a smile and than turns back to Axel.

"Protecting you?"

Looking back to Carson again Jess lips turn into a slight grin.

"I hurd there was going to be free pizza so I followed. Anything after that I am no part of I swair."

Turning back to Joel and the others Jess can't help but laugh herself again. Though the air had been thick before it seemed to be a little bit better now as everyone laughed and smiled. The feeling was nice and Jess liked it.

"You know Joel you say that its over, but something says its FAR from over. The others might life you down but I am not that full of mercy."

Jess cant help the sly grin they cross her face as she looks to Rocky and gives a wink.

Stepping out of the Taxi Angel just stands for a moment looks up at Austins house. She felt tired and sleep was really what she wanted to do, but see Austin was also something she wanted to do. She had gone the whole day with Misty and had seen hide nor hair of him. She even asked Susanne if he was in and she had told her no.

Giving a sigh Angel pays the cab driver and makes her way up to the door. She didnt know if Austin was home but it was worth a try. Giving a knock to the door Angel waits.

there

As Misty’s words hit Kyle’s ears, all he can do is stare back at her. The fire in his eyes slowly simmered until he lets go of her arms.

Backing up a step, he turns his back on her, setting his hands on his hips. He raises his face to look up at the night sky, a few stars visible above the city lights.

A scoffing laugh finally surfaces. “Dang it, Misty. Was I that stupid?”

He shakes his head and turns back around, defeat written on his face. “The first time I dared to love anybody, and I jumped the gun on walking away. And now what do I have? Someone who still cares for me too, but we can’t do a thing about it because her heart belongs in two different places. How can I make you choose?”

His head shakes again. “I’m sorry I’ve been a fool. Go where your heart leads you. I’ll find my way.”


Bret slips quietly into the house, shutting the front door softly behind him. It was late... later than he'd planned on getting home. Things at the track had turned into a reunion, and getting away from his old friends had been hard. He hadn't called Charlotte though, afraid she was still mad at him for that morning's little episode.

Seeing a light on in the kitchen, he heads in that direction, not bothering to stop and take his jacket off. One hand held that which he'd stopped to get on the way home, the other held a quarter.

Stopping for a moment, he just watches Charlotte move at the counter, feeling even sorrier for losing his temper earlier. Finally he moves forward again, coming up behind her. Reaching around her from behind, he presents the flowers, his other arm wrapping around her waist. Resting his his head against hers, he whispers in her ear.

"I love you... and I'm sorry about earlier."

Leaning forward to kiss her cheek, he moves just a little to the side, flipping the quarter and catching it on the counter. Revealing it under his palm, he cranes his neck around to see his wife's eyes. "Tails. That means I get to take you out to supper... if you forgive me."

Remain

Starttled at Kyle turn her around Misty gives just a small jump hearing the door slam she thought for sure Kyle had driven away.

Hearing his words Misty looks up into his eyes. Unsure of what she saw behind them but a certin fire seemed to burn.

Misty new what her heart told her and she new who she was dating. This was thin ground she was walking but at the moment she wasnt sure what anything ment.

Looking back at Kyle once again Misty eyes seemed to hold tears behind them. Everything seemed to hurt but the words just slipped from her toung.

"Yes Kyle...those feelings still remain."

Need to

Jason lies on the infirmary table, his eyes closed as his body starts to react to the episode. He could feel himself getting sick and knew it was only a matter of time before his body would retaliate.

Rick tries to give him some orange juice, but he refuses. "Not now," he mumbles. "Not yet..."

Rick sighs and sets the cup down, just waiting. He paces, worried. He could do nothing for Katie and it was frustrating and scary. It was one thing to try and help someone and fail - it was another to stand by helplessly unable to do anything.

As Katie shoots up with a scream, Scott jumps, taken totally off guard. He reaches out quickly to lay a hand on her arm, hoping that she was alright.

Receiving her quiet words, he's hit with relief. Some might think she was talking nonsense, but Scott knew that she was making perfect sense, and he could only thank God that she'd woken up and was okay. He swallows hard. "You're welcome," he replies softly before sitting back in his chair again, letting Rick through to check on her.

Rick lets out the breath he'd been holding, and returns Katie's smile. "Well, the hero decided to return to us after all," he muses. He starts checking her vitals, pleased that color was starting to return to her face.

Jason cracks his eyes open just wide enough to see a blurry form of Katie, but he can feel that she is awake, the pulse between them gaining back strength.

I'm so sorry, Katie....

He struggles to maintain strength as his feelings become those of guilt and frustration.

I thought I was losing you... it was my fault. I...

His emotional communication is suddenly halted as the unwanted but familiar lurch comes to his stomach. Giving a groan, he rolls over to slide off the table and stagger to the bathroom.

Rick was in the middle of helping Katie and he glances over his shoulder to see what was going on. "Jase, you okay?" he calls. No answer. Rick turns to Scott. "Would you check on him?"

Without hesitating, Scott responds, getting to his feet and heading to where Jason was. Kneeling next to him, Scott just waits until Jason is done throwing up and needs support back into the other room. Though having just been sick, Jason knows he can handle the orange juice now. Unfortunately, this all felt too routine. With a bit of help from Scott, he gets back to table, and takes the cup shakily, trying to get some sugar back in himself.

Scott lets him be and goes back to his chair, quiet and watchful. Mike stands ready to help if need be, but it looked as though everything was under control once more.

It wasn't long before the room had settled down again. Rick moves about the infirmary, and after a few minutes, he encourages Mike to get back to the others. He would look after everyone here. Mike agrees, and after a quick farewell, he leaves TJY.

Jason sits on the edge of the table, slowly regaining strength, but feeling utterly exhausted. Everything was a blurry nightmare. He rubs his eyes tiredly, trying to focus. He didn't know what to say to Katie. He didn't know what to say to Rick. This whole thing was his fault.

Rick approaches him again, his hands tucked in his lab jacket. "I'm sorry for doing that to you, Jason," he apologizes.

"What are you talking about?"

"Your flashback."

"Oh, that." Jason's eyes drift downward. "You had to do what you had to do."

"I'm still sorry about it." Rick sighs. "You realize now you can't bury those memories. They have to be available for when these things happen."

Jason swallows hard. His emotions said otherwise... he didn't like this... he felt vulnerable, weak and foolish. "Yeah... I know."

Rick purses his lips, then glances to Katie. "Do you feel up to going home tonight - I can call Laura to come get you. Or you can stay the night if you want. It's up to you."


Things back at the community building went quickly. A phone call from Mike helped relieve worries about Katie and Jason, and soon everybody's equipment was packed up and ready to go.

Axel made sure Jess didn't get lost in the chaos, and told her she could follow him and Rocky to the restaurant. It doesn't take long for the little convoy to reach their destination and soon they're all filing into Mom and Pop's. Mike catches up to them just in time - the only ones missing now were Jason and Katie, Kyle, and Taylor.

The bell above the door rings and Carson pokes his head out from the kitchen. He and Herb were the only ones left tonight, but seeing the group come in, he didn't mind staying open a while longer. A smile spreads on his face and he comes out just as everyone is sitting down.

Coming up behind Jess' chair, he ruffles her hair teasingly. "How did you wind up with his noisy bunch?" he asks.

Axel is sitting next to her, and looks up at Carson with dry humor. "She's protecting me."

"Oh really? From what?"

"Joel."

Rocky chimes in. "Yeah, keep your eye on him tonight, Carson. He might need to borrow a ladder at any given moment."

Joel's face is already red from his position at the end of the table. "Alright, alright! So I said something I shouldn't have! It's over!"

All his shouting does is serve to send a round of laughter around the table. Carson has no idea what was said earlier, but he just shakes his head, satisfied without even knowing.


As Misty comes around to the driver's side door, Kyle is taken by surprise. He'd thought she'd left. Receiving her hug, he's hesitant to return affection, unsure of just what her intentions are. Her words of him doing a good job make his emotions churn even more, but he remains quiet, even when she pulls away. He didn't know what to say. He felt like an idiot, even if she'd said he'd been great. If this is what great felt like, he didn't want it.

Looking down, he plays with his keys. There were things he'd like to say that he simply knew he shouldn't. And that was bad enough without all of this chaos going on. If only he'd handled things differently...

Though his mind wanders, he snaps back to attention as Misty speaks again. And slowly... slowly his eyes raise back up and he turns his head to meet her gaze. Her words hit him hard, a shock to his system. He blinks, unable to look away now, the confusion, pain and utter dismay surging through his eyes. He had been a fool.

But what could he possibly say now that would make any difference. If only he could go back. If only he could go back, knowing what he knew now. Why was she telling him? Why did she feel she had to? Why now? Did she just want to pour salt into his wounds? Did she just want to rub in the fact that he'd been so foolish? No... he knew that was not her intent. But the angry tears surface anyway.

Kyle swallows hard, ignoring his truck's warning light that the door was still open. Misty's final words of encouragement were tucked away for a time later when perhaps they might mean something to him. But right now... tonight... they fell on a numb heart.

He could say nothing. His mind could not think of a response to her words and her tears. But as she starts to walk away, an utter desperation rose up within him. Nothing else was going right. Everything was falling down all around him. Just once... just once, he needed to grasp for something... anything. And caution was his only barrier.

Sliding down out of his truck, he slams the door with a bang, his eyes blazing with a new fire that had sparked from the sheer embers of the pain he felt.

It only takes a few strides to come up behind Misty. Taking her by the shoulder, he spins her around so he can look in her eyes once more, both hands on her arms. His jaw is tight, his eyes glaring but without an anger. "Saying you don't deserve a guy like me is a poor excuse for not getting what you really want," he states flatly. "I want to know right now if those feelings for me still exist. If not, I walk away. But I need to know."