A darker side

Clint smiles and nods. "Yeah... that sounds good to me." Moving about, he grabs his wallet to stuff in his pocket, then Chase's baby blanket, covering up the warm bundle. "My arm's gone to sleep." He laughs quietly. "But if I can get him over to your mom's without waking him up, I think they'll be happy."

He throws his jacket over one shoulder and aims for the door, holding it open for Wendy. "Ready, Princess?"


Jade whirls around, hearing Dan, and a smile spreads on her face. Laughing, she claps her hands. "Hurry!"

Her eyes glance towards the barn, where she can just make out her dad. Mick catches her eye, and simply tips his hat before tuning to finish up for the evening.

Jade bite her lip as a grin forms. She shouldn't have argued with him earlier... but she was glad he was letting Dan go.

Seeing Clint and Wendy emerge from their bunkhouse, Jade gives a little jump. "Yay!" She hadn't thought they would come and was thrilled that they were. She missed her friend and cousin, and if just for an evening, it would be nice not to have to worry about anything, and just have fun.


Jason grins from his seat on the back of the pickup. "I'd say Jade is happy tonight." He cocks his head towards Katie.

Something does seem a bit off, though... like she's unsettled. I hope everything is okay with her.

He nudges her shoulder. "What about you? You happy?"


Gunner pries open his eyes and squints at Bree with a glazed look. "You..." He frowns, looking for the right words in the fog. "All night?" He was confused.

"Did they.. get... you... too?"

He opens his eyes wide, trying to focus, but it didn't do much good. He gives a little shiver in the cold. "I tried to... to... but they wouldn't... or... something." He knew that didn't sound right, but he didn't seem to be able to coordinate his mouth with his brain.

Digging down deep, he tries to find any lucidness that was left. "I wanted to leave... they wouldn't let me. I just..." He licks his dry lips. "Why can't it be over? Why can't they just... just... let me... die?"

Closing his eyes, he leans back against the cold wall. He still didn't understand what Bree was doing here, and his mind was going in a bazillion directions. "There's a darker side," he mumbles, shivering again.

Over Night

Minding his own work, it did bother Dan to much that Mick was keeping him busy. This was his job, why he was there. He didnt exspect anything more or less than that. He was just happy to have a home again, and food to eat. It was so much better than what had been for the last four years.

Continuing to work he was lost in his own little world making sure he got everything done right. As Mick catches the pitchfork Dan hadnt been expecting it and it startled him from his train of thought. Looking up at Mick in the eyes Dan couldnt help the small shiver that ran down his back and made the hairs on the back of his neck stand on end.

"Yes, yes sir. She will be I'll make sure of it."

Not being able to help the smile that formed on his face. It was nice of Mick to let him go and have a break from work. Dan couldnt help but be a little bit excited as well.

Putting the pitch fork down in a safe place her removes his gloves and whips his brow from where the seat was.

"Thank you Mick."

Giving a small wave Dan quickly makes his way out of the barn joging up to where everyone was waiting. Looking at Jade and other friends he smiles again.

"Well it looks like I am a free man tonight. Give me at least 10 minutes though to get a shower and clean up so I don't smell like a barn before we go ok?"

Not really waiting for an answer Dan takes off in a sprint twords his bunk to get cleaned up knowing the others would wait for him.

Turning from the dishes she was washing in the little sink Wendy thinks for a long moment. Things had been going good, it was still a little hard to get through the day but each day was getting easier than the first and the memories of there sweet little baby girl was still there it was dominant over them as much.

"Bowling does sound fun. I havent done that in so long."

Taking the towel off the counter Wendy whips her hands off before coming over to Clint and Chase giving her son a kiss on the top of his head. Maybe getting out would be good for them both.

"Yeah, let me give my mom a call and if she will watch Chase for us we will go. I think it will be nice to do something together and get a few laughs in."

Giving Clint a quick kiss Wendy disappears into the bathroom to get a little privacy as she talked to her mom. A few minutes coming out again giving Clint a small smile.

"Yeah, Mom said she and Luke would be happy to watch Chase and keep him over night too since we might not be getting back till late. I told her that would be find the alone time with you would be nice as long as you dont mind eather?"

Taking the small chart off the wall Bree looks over all the patients on the floor. She was here for Gunner but she had to do her job still. Coming to Gunner's chart Bree takes a little extra time to look through Gunner's. He'd just gotten another dose of medicen and would be out of it for a while but maybe she could go see him quick just to let him know she was there before the meds kicked in.

Making her way down the hall and coming to Gunner's room Bree looks in not seeing him at first but than seeing him curled up on the floor.

Opening and closing the door behind her slowly Bree makes her way across the floor in her dark purple scrubs that showed she was in fact working. Kneeling down next to Gunner Bree lays on hand on his arm.

"Hey Gunner, I'm here, and I will be here all night if you need anything."

Bree gives a little shrug and a smile. She was happy to be there for Gunner now and only hoped this would help him deal a little more.

"Now we can be backwards together when every you want and you dont have to be alone here ok?"

Back before one

Carson grins. "We go wherever you want... as long as I get back to Mom and Pop's before Ryder burns the place down. I think Aerith and Dani will keep him in line but... better safe than sorry."

All too soon, the lunch hour is over, but Carson promises to see Misty after he closes up that night.


Kyle takes a deep breath, letting it out slowly, his arm still around Alice. "Ya know... you might be right. I gotta think it through but... I got a good feeling."

Turning to see her face, he kisses her forehead. "How about just the two of us for supper tonight?" They'd been with the team a lot lately, and while it was always enjoyable, Kyle and Alice had had little time for each other. "I just... want to get away from it all... then when I make up my mind, I'll tell the others."

They were still a long way from Nevada... being in South Dakota for so long now, it felt strange. But at the same time, it felt like the prime tome to move on now. The past was far behind.


Eli nods in agreement, proud of his sister. "Yeah... all these years, not a day went by, I didn't think about you... John... Pop. And I don't know... it's weird, my family's always been so important, and somehow I let it all slip away. But not anymore... not anymore."

Standing up, Eli moves to his bag in the corner and pulls out an old deck of cards. The box had tape on the corners, and the cards were worn and faded. Bringing it to Ryan's bed, he scoots her over a little, then sits down again, cross legged.

Grinning, he shuffles the cards. "Remember this deck?" It had been the very deck they'd played with all the time when younger. Their dad had said it was his lucky deck, though John had ended up as the skilled player.

Eli deals out a few cards, not caring what game they played... the point was that they were together.


And the day turns into evening...


Jade paces in front of the main house, checking her watch again. She looks over to where Jason and Katie were sitting on the back of one of the pickups, waiting. She had asked them to wait, hoping that Dan would be finished with chores in time to go. But supper had been over an hour ago, and still Mick had the young man working. Jade was ready to give up, growing quite irritated with her father's stubbornness. But arguing with him fifteen minutes ago hadn't helped... maybe it had just made things worse. She paces a little more.


Mick wandered down the barn aisle, the aggravation in his eyes. Why his daughter had to be so stubborn, he didn't know. And why did she so desperately wanted Dan's company, he didn't know.

Sighing, he pulls on his gloves to move some hay bales. But crossing the aisle, he sees Dan mucking out one of the corner stalls. He stops and mutters under his breath. The man was probably too tired to bowl anyway... but Jade had accused him of nit having a heart, and he really didn't want that kind of reputation.

Rolling his eyes at himself, he stops and wanders down to the open stall. Catching Dan mid-shovel, he catches the pitchfork. Catching Dan's eye, he stares him down for just a moment. "I expect Jade to be home by one. Jason may be driving, but if you're late, it's you who will answer to me."

He nods to the open barn door, the corner of his mouth twitching as he holds back a smile. "Go on... don't keep them waiting."


"You want to go?" Clint draws back the curtain, seeing that the others haven't left yet. He turns to look at Wendy, Chase still tucked in his arm, sleeping with a full tummy. "Short notice, but your mom might watch Chase..." His tone was a little hopeful. This would be the first time since everything went sour, that he and Wendy went out and did anything fun. They were doing okay, and things were looking up, but... fun just hadn't been on the menu. "Maybe getting out for a few hours would be fun?"


Gunner fights against the nurse, choking up water and trying to spit out the pills that he knew were making him feel so badly. But it was no use. The pills finally slip down his throat again.

The nurse stands back, panting with the doctor.

"Why did his other dosage wear off?" the doctor demands.

The nurse shakes her head. "I'm sorry. I guess he must have spit it out the last time."

"Well make sure it doesn't happen again."

The door closes... and locks. Gunner slowly stretches back out from his curled-up position on the bed. Sweating and trembling, he forces himself to stand shakily, going to the window. Spreading his hand, he places it over the traced handprint.

His knees buckle and he sinks to the floor, feeling cold and hot at the same time. Without the energy to get into bed, he just stays on the floor to wait out the drugs.

I'd like

Ryan gives a smile sitting up just a little. She felt sore all over stuff but on the inside she felt alot better than she did. It was soothing, and warm things were going to be ok now.

"I'd like that. Though I don't know how long it will be till my arm is good enough to race. Not to mention I guess I am a little scared. If Roth is still lingering around somewhere I don't want him to try and start anything again."

Ryan had never really been scaired of something before, not for a long time anyways and admitting it now made her feel funny. Closing her eyes for a long moment Ryan just thinks before opening them and looking at her brother again.

"I'll still race. I cant let them think they have won. They might of took someone dear from me, but they wont take racing too. You will see me race again Eli."

Giving a smile and gaining a bit of confadince Ryan ment it. She couldnt let this get her down or let anyone think they won or broke her. She was a darn good racer and loved doing it she wasnt going to let anyone stop her.

"I'd like to get to know each other again. Nothing really exciting has happened to me in the last few years but there is some stuff to tell. Maybe we can even go up to see John together or at least call him."

Bringing her arms around Kyle Alice accepts the kiss returning her own just letting the wonderful emotions wash over her. The Lord had worked in Kyle's life in more than one way and she was so thankful for that and that he had finally found his way back to what he loved.

Hearing the voice behind Kyle Alice looks up with her arms still around him not ready to let go yet. Giving a laugh it was funny to see someone else being the ham in the group but it was refreshing to, to know there were other people out there with a sense of humor.

Once the two are gone Alice looks to Kyle again ad laughs one more time. Her eyes shining bright.

"They seem like a great bunch. I know your going to fit in great."

Giving a laugh as the run through TJY Misty trys her best keeping up with Carson but for the most part almost feels like she is being dragged.

Laughing the whole way Misty is panting as they get to the car. Being pushed up aganst it her arms go around Carson's neck for a moment.

"I think I might be to hungry too."

Laughing and shaking her head again as Carson slides over the car and gets in Misty gets in to putting her seatbelt on.

"So where are we headed?"

Not housebroke

Eli gives a little chuckle. "We always had a little piece of each other anyway... but maybe this has been a good reminder for me too." He shrugs. "When this is over and you're out of here, I want to spend some time with you... catch up on our lives while we're both still here to talk about it. I got time off work for family emergencies so... I got a bit of time to spare yet. Maybe I'll even get to see you race."


Kyle laughs and pulls Alice in for a hug. "You? Lose me? For some reason, I really don't think that's possible."

Still grinning, he was filled with such a feeling, he couldn't describe. It was excitement. It was peace. It was joy. He was finally ready... he was ready to take the stage once more. He had fought this gift for too long. He had denied himself this joy because of what others thought for too long. Now it was his time... God had swung wide the door and was calling him to enter. It was time. His time with Break Out had not been a waste... perhaps he had needed the time to find himself... to be out of place for a while so that when he found his place again, he would have no doubt. Perhaps he felt caution now, but somehow, this new route held a peace of mind that it was what he was supposed to do. He had struggled with JetStream and Cryptic... but now... now it was different, and he was ready.

Thinking they're alone, Kyle pulls Alice closer for a kiss, letting a passion through that he normally withheld.

Kip walks out of the building behind Theo and stops short, staring with wide eyes. "Oh, please let that be a yes."

Kyle jumps at the sound of someone's voice, and quickly ends the moment.

Theo slaps Kip upside the head. "Man, you don't know when to shut up." He gives a little wave to Kyle and Alice. "Sorry... he's not housebroke yet."

"Hey!" Kip jumps on Theo's back to put him in a chokehold, but his feet are off the ground, and he doesn't have enough leverage. Theo, being much bigger, fumbles until finally getting Kip up and over his shoulder. "Come on, you, I gotta get you out of here before you go and embarrass us any more."

"Hey... wha... Put me down!" Kip laughs, hanging over the back of Theo. He grins and waves to Kyle and Alice. "Feel free to keep on-"

Theo slaps him.

"Ow! I mean don't mind us, we- Ow! Theo!"


Jade can't help a smile as Dan consoles her. It felt good to have someone take time out to talk to her. Not that nobody else cared, but no one else had really noticed she was having a hard time.

She turns her head to study Dan's eyes for several moments, just letting his invitation hang in the air, waiting. "Thank you." Her voice softly breaks the silence.

A twinkle appears in her eye. "Even if we do go tonight, I'll join you for church."


Not needing to be told twice, Carson grips Misty's hand and pulls her towards the door. "Your wish is my command."

Once they hit the hall though, he breaks into a jog, pulling Misty along with him. Dodging several agents along the way, he heads to the exit, still pulling Misty to keep up with him.Out in the parking lot, it's a race to his car.

Skidding to a halt and catching his breath, Carson laughs and backs Misty up against the car. "I'd suggest just hanging out in my car for a while, but..." His eyes tease her. "I'm too hungry for lunch."

Giving her another quick kiss, he turns to slide across the hood and get in behind the wheel.

Peace of you

Ryan looks back at her brother still feeling a little lethargic and groggy but more alert than she had been in the days that passed. She was feeling better and other than she shoulder she wasn't in to much pain. Though stoping to think about it her heart gave an extra thud remembering what had happened with Leo.

"It would have if you hadn't had come. I didnt think anyone would be able to find you. I wasn't even sure."

Though the words seemed sad Ryan tryed her best to hold her smile. It hadnt been just her brothers fault but her own as well for losing contact with him. Maybe now thought they could keep that communication open more.

"I guess this means now I have a little peace of you with me always as a reminder never to lose contact with my family again huh?"

Being introduced to everyone Alice can feel the heat rise on her face not use to being the center of attachen but more on the side lines. Not that she complained about it she was there for Kyle not her own spot light but now it seemed different and it was defiantly something she would have to get use to.

Taking a seat while the music started Alice couldnt help but tap her foot to the music as it played. It was a different style but it sounded great and Kyle fit right in. It was so good to see the look in Kyle's eyes return that had been there when she saw him playing with JetStream, and Cryptic. This is what Kyle loved and where he belonged Alice could feel it.

Claping as they finished Alice jumped onto the stage to give Kyle a hug and stand with him again. Waiting to see what would happen next. Listing Alice couldnt help the bit of shock that over came her but than her lips turned up into a smile. It felt like eveything inside was bubbling for joy.

Giving her goodbyes to everyone once again Alice follows along with Kyle arm in arm taking in the fresh air as it hit her. She couldn't be more excited for Kyle and couldnt help but laugh a little.

"I believe Kyle Mitts you are a bandleader. If thats what you want anyways. I dont know though you before a big shot I might lose you to some crazed teen ager."

"Nah you dont sound pitiful, you just sound like you dont know your place yet thats all."

Dan gives a soft smile to Jade. Not really knowing what to say to her Dan felt a little but funny. It had been a long time since he comforted someone he was rusty.

"I think you should just ask you dad. He would probably love you have you around and Rosetta too. You seemd like a great woman I dont see why they wouldnt let you stay."

Looking away from Jade for a moment Dan scans the yard as if thinking about something for a long moment before looking back to Jade again giving a knowing nod.

"Life is never easy, all we can do is live, learn and roll with it. We make the best of what we got and life to the fullest what we have left. Thinks will work out Jade God will see to that."

Standing again Dan holds out his hand to her to help Jade up before heading back to work himself.

"Jade, if we dont get to go bowling tonight would you like to ride with me to church Sunday. Everyone could use a friend."

Dan gives a smile. He new Jade was probley feeling a little lonly and it might be nice to have someone to chat with herself.

Giving a laugh and throwing her arms around Carson Misty gives him another long and passiont kiss before letting go and standing grabbing her jacket.

"Come on lets go before Rick really does kick us out."

Misty takes Carson's hand ready for him to take the lead.

Crazy

Kyle smiles at Alice, his eye sparking just a little. It meant a lot to him that she was proud. "Thanks."

Leading them to the stage, Erik makes the introductions. Theo was a dark man on drums, and the blonde with the bass guitar was Kip- nobody really knew why, since his real name was Reginald, but he'd gone by Kip for as long as anyone could remember. Twila played the electric violin, or a variety of wind instruments. Russ was on acoustic rhythm, and Erik usually played lead electric guitar, though he and Russ often switched. And today, there was also a keyboard set up.

"So yeah, this is Kyle," Erik concludes, "and this lovely young woman is his girlfriend, Alice."

Twila smiles and gives her a little wave, thankful for once that she wasn't the only female present.

Kyle takes a moment, trying to get everybody straight. "Alright, so... you lost you lead guy?"

"Right. And..." Erik pauses. "He ditched right before I got word back from a buddy who has connections to connections and..."

"Basically we got a record contract," Kip interrupts, tired of the wait. "Once in a lifetime sponsored label, but we don't have a stellar singer anymore and if we go and suck, that's basically it."

Erik smirks. "Thanks for that positive slant there."

Kip grins. "You're welcome."

Kyle folds his arms. "So... you woulda just scrapped the whole thing?"

"Pretty much." Erik nods. "Then I heard you were in town so... it was worth a try."

Kyle finds everything a little unbelievable. "You're telling me that your band landed a record label and none of you can sing well enough to pull it through?"

"Kip and I can sing," Twila admits.

Kyle waits.

Erik shrugs. "You were here... we didn't want to pass up the opportunity."

Kyle shakes his head. "Well... okay. Where do we start?"

For the next hour, the room was filled with music.The genre was rock, but with a little twist, sometimes it felt like pop, and Twila's instruments added a very unique flavor. Some songs were softer as well, quiet and soothing. Kyle was able to read the music well, adding skillfully both voice and keyboard. Some songs he mostly listened, and the band wound up even trying one of his songs. They were a rock band. They had a hard edge, but also a softer ability. All lyrics were clean, and some mentioned God.

As the last song dies away, sweat was on brows, and water bottles were empty. But for having a new guy, they'd sounded good.

"Wow." Kip laughs an looks out at Alice. "I hope you love this guy - he is awesome!"

"Here here!" Twila agrees.

Theo gives a drumbeat as his support too. Erik grins and sets down his guitar. "You don't disappoint, Kyle."

Kyle grins. It had felt good to really play and sing again... real good. "Neither do you guys. You're great."

"We've been together a few years," Ross explains. "Took us a while but I think we got our act together."

"I'll say." Kyle eyes Alice, then looks back to the band. "Still don't know what you call yourselves though."

"Well..." Erik thinks. "We were Righteous Bullet for a while but... well, do you think you're interested in this?"

Kyle's eye find Alice once more. But as he gazed at her, he knew this had to be his own decision and he knew he'd have her support no matter which road he chose. He finally looks back to Erik. "I got nothing here... no vehicle, hardly any clothes, and my money's gonna run out soon."

"No problem. Consider it taken care of."

"Wha... well Alice, she-"

"That'll be taken care of too."

Kyle blinks. "I don't want to look a gift horse in the mouth, but...I don't understand what's going on."

He shakes his head. "You come looking for me, tou're hesitant to even tell me the name of your band, you're already saying that Alice and I are taken care of... I don't get it."

Erik bites his lip. "Well, Kyle... I believe... that this isn't a coincidence. My family is well-off and has a lot of connections. And well... when my brother left the band, we all had this strange conviction to wait.. and not go ahead on our own Then when you showed up, all of us just felt... we felt... God," he concludes. "We all prayed and thought and prayed and thought abd it was like we had this big neon arrow pointing to you. And ...and the band name if you sign on with us, we don't want the band name anymore... we want yours."

Kyle's eyes are wide. "I don't... understand."

"Kyle Mitts... we want to be your band."

Kyle turns to Alice again, his expression one of confused amazement.

"Not good?" Kip asks.

"No...no, I just..." Kyle stammers. "Why do you guys want my name? Why do you want to promote me instead of your band name?"

"We're all team players," Theo answers. "And we all just like to play. None of us want the spotlight. We all just feel like our place is to back somebody up... to be their blessing."

Kyle puts his hands on his hips, at a loss for words. This band wanted to take him on as their leader... give him the opportunity to shine... Let him have the spotlight. And they obviously meant it. They weren't just desperate - they all really felt like this was what they should do.

"Think about it," Erik prompts. "Pray about it. You got my number."

Kyle swallows hard. "How much time do I have?"

"The record company wants to hear us in two weeks."

It wasn't much time at all to get their act together. Kyle nods. "Okay... I'll call you."

Farewells are handed out, and finally, Kyle is out in the fresh air again with Alice. He stuffs his hands in his denim jacket pockets and leans back against her jeep, not getting in yet."I... it... I don't know what to think... what just happened?"


Back inside, Erik turns to the others. "Well... what do you think?"

"He definitely thinks we're crazy," Kip concludes. "But we knew that would happen."

Erik chuckles.. "Yeah... but I feel better doing it this way. I know we made the right move. Now it's just up to God."


Jade looks quickly to Dan, not having seen him approach. She gives him a wry grin. "Oh, I suppose everything is fine. Just having a little pity party I guess."

She shrugs. "Not used to feeling out of place around here... I'm too chicken to ask my dad if I can stay... I don't know."

She sighs and leans her head back again. "And I thought this stahe of life was going to be easy. All it's done is bite me in the butt instead."

Turning to look at Dan, she giggles. "I sound pitiful, don't I?"


"I think you cooking tonight is a fantastic idea." Ryder was thrilled to see any form of confidence shining through. Th road with Thirteen was still a long one, but little by little, she was becoming her own woman.

He tosses her a wink instead of giving her a kiss like he wanted to, since they were in public. Some things still needed to be kept quiet.

"As long as we don't burn the kitchen down, I think we'll be fine," he teases.


Rick glances up from his work and rolls his eyes. "I just got back from Texas last night, I hardly slept a wink... I'm too tired to care today."

He smirks a little and points his pencil at them. "Just stay out of trouble - we've had enough excitement around here lately."

"Mm..." Carson moves around and swings Misty up into his arms. '"'d say we haven't had enough."

Rick waves to the door. "Get out of here before I throw you and your romantic selves out."


A smile creases Eli's lips and he takes Ryan's hand as she reaches for his. "Of course I stayed. I couldn't leave you yet."

He shifts his weight a little to look at her face. "Doc says she thinks you're gonna be okay... that so far, your body isn't rejecting the blood."

He grins. "I knew you wouldn't let this thing get you down."

Could I forget?

"Why you work so well with the kids and I thought you liked your work?"

Bree looks across the desk at her boss, fashioned in her scrubs and ready for work. It had been an hour since she had left Gunner safe and sleeping back at the hospital. Now she was back at work with a request.

"I do love my job here with the kids but I think just for a little while a change of scenery would be nice. Not to mention I think I could help over at Northside. I know they need people for overnights as well, so its not a waist."

Leaning forward on the desk the Dr looks across space at Bree sitting in front of him. She was one of his best workers and would hate to lose her but feather more he would hate to have her leave on her own and not come back.

"If your sure this is what you want, and you come back here when your ready I will alow you to go to Northside. Go home, get some sleep and tonight you can go back there at 9 to work. I'll call the Dr's and let them know your coming."

Giving a small nod Bree's face holds no expression thought on the inside she was happy to be going to Northside. She could keep a better eye on Gunner there and help him better.

"Thank you very much Dr. Heart. I will be back when I am ready."

Standing Bree leaves the office and makes her way across the floor. Stoping at a few childrens rooms before she left. Who new if when she got back if they would be there still. Once finished Bree heads out of the hospital again and home to grab some sleep.

Heading to the barn Dan was running late for his chores but a movement by one of the straw bails caught his attachen. Seeing Jade and the look on her face Dan could tell something was wrong. Not being able to help himself he makes his way over to Jade. He was late already what was another couple of minutes.

"Hey There! Everything ok?"

Sinking down on the bail next to Her Dan gives a soft smile. Not wanting to invade her space but make sure everything was ok.

Entering the building with Kyle by her side Alice cant help the little bit of excitement inside her that was building for Kyle.

"Its going to work out Kyle. I know it will."

Continuing to follow the music with Kyle Alice stays close not sure herself what to expect. Seeing Erik Alice smile as he and Kyle talk for a long moment.

"It's good to see you again Erik I hope you are well."

Feeling Kyle's hand in her own Alice gives it a little squeeze as she start to walk again. Looking over to Kyle she smiles.

"I'm so proud of you Kyle."

Looking back at Ryan Thirteen gives a smile. She often helped Ryder with odd jobs here and there now and enjoyed it. Though things were still rough, and sometimes she still had a hard time understanding things or was jumpy everything for the most part was going well.

"Hmmmm...yes I think I will help you. I've rather enjoyed it the last few times."

Grabbing one of the extra aprins Thirteen throws it on she gets to her normal place in the kitchen ready to work. Turning to Ryder she gives a smile.

"So I was thinking, maybe tonight I could cook dinner for you by myself. I think I know what I want to make and I have been studying the recipe, I just need to go to the store to grab a few things."

Giving a laugh and returning the kiss its finally broke as she giggles again. Things had been going fairly good the last week or so and Misty couldn't be happier. Giving a thoughtful look to Carson a grin forms on her lips as she looks up at him.

"Well, I dont know if my feonsay found out I was going to dinner with Hot Australian guys he might get pretty upset. I dont know if you could handle him."

Tossing a look over her shoulder at Rick her sassy grin remains ferm.

"What do you think Rick?"

"How could I forget when you keep waking me up from my dreams of Leo, racing and other happy things?"

Opening her eyes slowly her head was splitting but seeing her brother seemed to help it melt away just a little.

The last few days Ryan could hardly remember anything but bits and peaces of what was going on. Almost like a dream she could remember small things that were like a puzzle fitting them together to get the idea of what happened.

Giving a smile to her brother Ryan turns her head just a little reaching out for his hand. She was happy he was still here.

"I didnt think you would stick around this long. But I'm happy you did."

Left out

Gunner leans back and listens quietly to Bree reading. He really didn't know what was going on around him. But something about Bree's voice was like a soothing balm to his emotional wounds. It didn't matter what she was reading - it didn't really register with him anyway. But her voice was cool and quiet.

His shoulders start to relax, and his eyes droop closed. At Bree's question, he shakes his head slowly. "It... sounds... nice." His body too tired to keep trying with figuring out his lethargic brain, begs for rest. Without even realizing it, he'd leaned over, and his head was resting on Bree's shoulder.

It didn't take him long to fall unto a drugged sleep as she read. He wouldn't wake before she left for work.


"So, you gonna let Dan have off tonight so we can go bowling?" Jade leans on the stall door, looking at her dad.

Mick pauses his cleaning and sighs, wiping his sweaty brow. "We got a lot of work to do around here, Jade. I can't promise you anything."

"But, Dad! He has to have a break sometime, and besides, what did you do before he was hired?"

"Dan signed on full-time here - you can't just come and go at a ranch like this. And before he came, we had three other guys who are now gone. I can't just not use Dan because you guys want to go bowling."

Jade frowns. "You've got something against him, don't you?"

"Of course I don't."

"Well, what is it then?"

Mick shakes his head and returns to working. "I don't have time to stand here and argue."

Jade opens her mouth, but then realizes there's no point. She could just hope Dan could go.It wouldn't be as fun without teams. Trudging back out of the barn, she flops down on a bale of straw. Maybe it really wasn't her dad that was bothering her. Maybe it was just the fact that she had yet to ask if she could live here. She hadn't told him everything. All she wanted now was to go have some fun for a distraction and it was frustrating when things got in the way.

She'd hardly even seen Dan at all the last couple days, he'd been so busy. Katie and Jason had each other, and were spending time alone or with Jeff. Clint and Wendy were together too, now with a family to tend to.

For the first time, Jade felt lonely here... left out. It was no one's fault, and no one should change anything - it just was... different. Leaning her head back, she watches the clouds drift by, She needed something better to do.


Kyle looks at the double doors of the large brick building. Several other cars were in the parking lot, signaling that the band was here. He glances to Alice hesitantly. "Well..." He takes a deep breath. For all he knew, the band played celtic punk and he'd turn around and walk away with nothing changed. "Here goes nothing."

Getting inside, the interior is dim. The multi-purpose building had several halls and tiled floors. Hearing a drumset, Kyle quirks an eyebrow."Guess we follow our ears."

Walking slowly, he leads the way down the hall, finally coming to an open door to a medium-sized room. Chairs were stacked up to the sides, and a small stage held the band.

"Hey! You made it!"Erik comes to greet them, smiling at both Kyle and Alice.

Kyle grins a little, hanging back to gain courage from Alice to stay. "Yeah... figured I better come see what you were talking about."

"Fantastic. We usually practice in Theo's garage, but for today, we decided we should have some room to breath."

Kyle shrugs. "I'm used to practicing in a basement. You have to rent this place?"

"Naw. I know somebody who pulled a string or two." Erik chuckles. "It's who ya know. Come on... I'll introduce you..." He smiles at Alice. "I have a feeling you're a big part in this, so please... come too."

Kyle's hand finds hers and gives it a squeeze. He normally wasn't fearful of new things or people, but today... this felt so different. He was facing a big giant today.


"Wait! But... I... Carson!!" Ryder stands with apron in hand, watching Carson head out the door of Mom and Pop's. This was now the fourth time he'd done this to him! He looks back to the table at Thirteen. "Well... so much for a lunch date. Want to help me back here?"


Carson jogs from his car to the TJY entrance, letting himself in. He makes a quick job of going to the infirmary to find Misty at her desk. Leaning over her shoulder, he gives her a long kiss, ending with a teasing grin. He never showed up during the day, especially over lunch. "I got forty-five minutes. What's this feisty sheila say to going ou with a bloke like me for some food?"


Eli leans back against the wall at the head of the bed, and brings a leg up close to rest one elbow on his knee. His other leg was stretched out as he turned another page of his book. He'd been trying to get through the novel for a while now, so stuck with nothing to do for several days, gave him the opportunity to read more.

He hadn't thought after giving blood that he'd really have to stay there as long as they'd said, but he'd found out quickly that his body was much more tired than anticipated. While his sister had drifted in and out of consciousness, he'd slept away many hours himself. He was just glad that the doctor had allowed him to stay in th same room as Ryan. So far, she hadn't been awake or lucid enough to speak, and Eli wanted to be there for when she was.

He turns another page and sighs. At least he'd been allowed back his own clothes, and his bike had been put under roof. He reaches for a glass of orange juice, pausing to look at his sister again. Setting the glass back down, he swings his bare feet to the floor and puts his book aside.

Walking just a couple feet, he sits down on the edge of Ryan's bed. He straightens a strand of her hair and sighs. "Don't forget to come back to us."

Stars

Walking down the hall Bree checks behind her to make sure Gunner was keeping up not wanting to walk to fast. Setting his float down on the little nightstand next to the books by the bed Bree goes to the window along with Gunner. Seeing her hand print she gives a little smile before turning to listen to Gunner about the stars.

"Sometimes clouds can be just as pretty as stars. They don't shine but they are puffy and calming. Vampires like the clouds more too."

Turning to sit on the edge of the bed Bree lets out a small sigh as she just looks at her friend for a long moment. He didn't belong here, just like she didn't belong here. Yes maybe Gunner needed to be kept safe from himself but he didnt need to be drugged not like this.

Though she wanted to break down and comfort him Bree also just wanted to be herself but at this point and with the way Gunner must be feeling right now on these drugs she didnt know if it would make him feel worse.

"Right now with how you feel you could very well be dreaming. But I am here with you thats not a dream. I'll stay with you will I have to leave for work."

Taking one of the books from the night stand Bree flips through it quit for a moment before coming to one page with a picture that had many starts on it along with what looked like some kind of dust or smoke. Moving just a little bit and giving a gentil little push to Gunner Bree sits up on the bed the same way he was leaning her back aganst the wall so he could see the book too.

In a soft low voice that was soothing she started to read from the page hope it would help Gunner just a little if anything.

"The constellation of Orion holds much more than three stars in a row. A deep exposure shows everything from dark nebula to star clusters, all imbedded in an extended patch of gaseous wisps in the greater Orion Molecular Cloud Complex. The brightest three stars on the far left are indeed the famous three stars that make up the belt of Orion."

Stopping for a moment Bree looks down at Gunner now sure if he wanted her to continue to not. but she was sure if he did want her to he would let her know.

Laying her free hand on Gunner's shoulder Bree rubs it for a moment before just letting it rest there. Looking back to the page once again Bree starts to read again.

"Just below Alnitak, the lowest of the three belt stars, is the Flame Nebula, glowing with excited hydrogen gas and immersed in filaments of dark brown dust. Below the frame center and just to the right of Alnitak lies the Horsehead Nebula, a dark indentation of dense dust that has perhaps the most recognized nebular shapes on the sky. On the upper right lies M42, the Orion Nebula, an energetic caldron of tumultuous gas, visible to the unaided eye, that is giving birth to a new open cluster of stars. Immediately to the left of M42 is a prominent bluish reflection nebula sometimes called the Running Man that houses many bright blue stars. The above image, a digitally stitched composite taken over several nights, covers an area with objects that are roughly 1,500 light years away and spans about 75 light years."

Giving a little thoughtful grunt Bree gives a small smile.

"Thats actually quite interesting I can see why you like reading these books. Would you like me to keep reading or want me to stop?"



Some information for this post was taken from Space Fellowship, written by Matt, on September 30th, 2009. The link is as follows: http://spacefellowship.com/2009/09/30/picture-of-the-day-orion-in-gas-dust-and-stars/

Dreaming?

The nurse has no problem in letting Bree take Gunner to his room - probably because it was not a threatening action.

Gunner slowly gets up, a little wobbly at first as the room spins and he has to get his bearings. He really had no idea what Bree's intentions were, but he couldn't figure out the words to ask, and somewhere he felt that he could trust her.

Grabbing the book to take along, he follows close to Bree, shuffling down the hall, around the corner, and down another short ways to his room. Entering, he just stands dumbly for a moment, turning to look at Bree as if asking what on earth they were doing there, if he was supposed to be leaving.

The rest if the books were on the nightstand, and the outline of Bree's hand was taped to the window. A bunch of paper had been torn to pieces, but on closer look, they all shaped numbers and a couple capital letters. Gunner had obviously wanted to jot down something, but without a pen that was his only way.

"There's nothing in the northern sky," he mumbles. "Not past midnight."

He looks to the window. "But there are clouds today. No stars."

Sighing deeply, he sinks down onto his bed, slowly leaning over until he was curled on his side. His head hurt, trying to think so much. "Am I... dreaming?"

Rest

Bree was happy to see Gunner drink the float. At least he would drink and eat for her that was important. It hurt, oh how it hurt to see him like this when only a few days ago it had been so much different.

"Your right Marge does, we are going to have to think up something good. Maybe a crazy request for dinner, or spiders in her hair or something."

Leaning a little closer and watching Gunner Bree's heart ached for him. She hated seeing Gunner like this when she new he shouldnt be.

"Oh Gunner, I wish I could. You will go home soon though."

Forming a plan in her head Bree already got a picture, and an idea of something to help Gunner. Her friend, her only friend.

"Come on let me take you back to your room so you can rest off these drugs. I wont leave if you dont want me to ."

Standing Bree turns to one of the nurses giving a nod and keeping her voice strong to show that she wouldnt take No.

"I am taking Gunner back to his room. He needs to rest."

Please

Gunner doesn't move when Bree comes. He heard what she was saying, and he wanted to respond, but it was as if all his senses had been shut down.

He blinks slowly and swallows, feeling her hand on his face. He felt like screaming... yet at the same time, he felt nothing.

Opening his mouth. he wants to say something, but suddenly it was as if he didn't even know what language to use. Rubbing his eye, he shakes his head, wanting to be rid of this horrid feeling, but it doesn't work. The only thing that seemed to be functioning normally was his taste buds, and his mouth starts to water.

Gunner finally lets go of the book to reach for the float. Taking a sip from the straw, he nods. It tasted a lot better than his breakfast had.

Hearing Bree's question, it takes him a moment to process it. Eventually, he points to the familiar nurse a ways away. "Marge freaks easily," he mumbles.

Sighing deeply, his eyes remain void of emotion. He takes another sip of his float, but then pushes it away a little. Leaning forward, he rests his head on the table, his face to Bree. HIs eyes beg her as the words finally come out. "Take me home... please?"

Bossman

I think with this one he will be ok. Probably just be happy to have us back to our old selfs again.

Giving a smile and looking over at her dad Katie gives a nod.

"I'd like to stay a little longer too. As long as we let Reese know I dont see a problem. I am still on my leave from work anyways. He told me to take all the time I needed."

Looking back to Jade and Dan Kaite smile. She had enjoyed both there company so far and wouldnt mind having a little more fun before going back to work.

"And bowling sounds fun."

Raising an eyebrow a smile spreads across Dan's face as he got no option in the matter and than giving a short chuckle.

"Ok, bowling it is than. Sounds like it might be fun."

Looking over her shoulder and leaning back a little in his chair Dan looks to Mick.

"Hey Boss man, we get to bring some of your wifes delicious hot chocolate with us?"

Looking up from the chart once again Amanda gives a small smile. Since JT had come to work at the hospital Amanda had seen him in and out almost everyday, not stopping though to talk as there word didnt not allow the time, she didnt always find him handsome. And now to have him asking her out to lunch or dinner, it was almost like a fairy tail that she could smile about.

"I do an overnight shift the night before, so dinner that night could be good as I have off that day. That way I can get some sleep in."

Giving another smile Amanda turn and disapears it Ryan's room to check on her knowing she would see JT again before the day was though to get the details and times on when to meet him for dinner.

And so the says move on, some waiting for the excitement that was to come, and some just wanting to see there friend who needed them....but for no matter the reason the day moved on.

Entering the small room that had a chill in the air Bree looked around untill she found who she was looking for. Her eyes give a sparkle as makes her way over to him seeing him holding the book she had let him barrow.

"Hope you havnt filled up on blood yet this morning, I dont want you to be to full to have this float with no ice cream I braught you!"

Holding it out to Gunner Bree scans his face taking note to his glazed eyes and the lifeless nature that seemed to be present. What had happened to her friend and was he ok now?

Slidding into the chair next to him and setting the float on the table Bree reachs out and takes Gunner's hand in her own.

"Oh Gunner, what have they done to you."

Taking her other free hand Bree brush a peace of hair off Gunner for head before running it down his face and than withdrawing it.

"Next time you want to get out, wait till you have someone who can cover your back eh?"

Giving his hand a gentil squeeze Bree wanted him to be his normal joking self so she could join along to. On coming today they Dr had said what had happend, she wasnt going to bring it up and she was just going to be normal but hadnt relized that they had drugged him too.

Though Gunner wasnt himself today Bree was going to try and still be herself so she could help Gunner maybe get into the better mood.

"Ok So, we are we going to freak out today?"

Foggy

Gunner glances over his shoulder one last time as he's led down the long hall. He'd never had many friends. He wasn't all that close to those at TJY - Con was probably the closest - although he'd worked there for years now. He didn't know if he'd had friends in his younger years, and had always wondered if he'd been more of a people person. He doubted it though... after the accident, he'd had no one come to him to try to reestablish relationships.

Here and now, suddenly, there were two people that apparently cared. It baffled him, why they did, but he couldn't deny it. Hope and Bree had no other reason to be trying to help him - they had nothing to gain. So they must really care. Why though? He didn't know. There was a strange connection between him and Bree though... maybe all it was, was their demented sense of humor, but it seemed to be enough, whatever it was.

Giving a little sigh, he turns back to paying attention where he was going. There was too much to think about right now.


JT leans on the wall and folds his arms casually as he looks at Amanda. "You don't have to thank me. This is what I'm here for... this is why I'm a doctor.

He cocks his head. "I got double shifts tonight and tomorrow night but... the evening after that, I have off." He shrugs. "If you want to join me for supper..." He gives her a little smile. He had no idea if she would want to go out with a coworker or not, but it was worth asking. "Or lunch, depending on your hours."


Jade's eyes widen at Dan. "You've never bowled? Ohh, then do we have a treat for you." She swivels in her seat to bump Mick's shoulder behind her on the next table. "Dad? Do they still have the bowling alley in town?"

Mick almost spills his soup as he's nudged. "Um... I think so, why?"

"Duh - to go bowling."

Mick grins and looks over his shoulder at the group. "Sounds like fun. You're not planning on going tonight though, I hope."

"Why not?"

"I need Dan to go on a night watch with me for a night or two. We've had coyotes spooking the horses out back, and it's time to nip it in the bud."

Jade's shoulders drop. "Well..." She turns back to the group. "Jason? You and Katie hanging around here for a couple more days?"

Jason looks to Katie.

I think Reese won't fire us if we stay a little longer, do you?

"I'm game... Just gotta make a call or two."

Jeff gives his daughter a smile."I wouldn't mind if you stuck around longer."

"Good." Jade nodded with satisfaction. "We make a foursome tomorrow night or the next and introduce this guy to bowling."

Mick quirks an eyebrow and turns back to his food, sending Rosetta an uncomfortable look, but he says nothing.


The day vanished in the wind like a droplet of water, dispersed to evaporate, never to be seen again. Days are funny that way - in the beginning, they seem as though they might last forever, and in the next instance, it is gone. The page turns, bringing a new dawn once again...


"We found him just outside the front lounge."

"How did he get out?!"

The twisted innards to a pen is dumped onto the table. "It seems he's an expert at picking locks."

"Any damage?"

"Broken window to the medical room. He had a piece of glass and tried to cut himself during the struggle."

"Have a different lock put on his room and schedule his next therapy session immediately. What meds have you had him on."

"These." A bottle is placed on the table. "They seem to have no effect though."

"Try this instead." The medication is replaced. "Double dose. We can't risk violence until he's calmed down."

"Visitors?"

"No one today if we can help it. He needs time to calm down."

"Yes sir. I'll fill out the incident report."

"Be sure to have Thomas look at your cut there."

"I will. Thank you..."


...Gunner almost chokes as he's forced to swallow the pills, and water spills from his mouth.

"There, there, this will make you feel better."

Gunner glares at Marge and fights the straight jacket he'd been put into a couple hours before, after attempting to get out then fighting the doctors. Somewhere along the way, he'd had the bright idea to try ending the struggle right then and there but he'd come away with just a small cut from the piece of glass he'd grabbed, instead of finding life's end as planned.

He gives the nurse a low growl, in no mood for her cheer. But he wouldn't get much more than that today. He was brought out for lunch after he'd calmed down, but after that, things started getting foggy. He was busy... he thought... going from one doctor to the next, and forced into activities with some of the other patients. He vaguely remembers thinking that if anyone came to see him, that he would be too busy, knowing that would be the reason given to anyone.

By the next morning, everything was fuzzy. It felt like he was going in slow motion, and everything around him was spinning, but not making him dizzy. Sometimes he could focus if he tried hard enough, but he really didn't feel much of anything. He didn't feel good... he didn't feel bad.. not happy or sad. At least he was free to walk around now, though he didn't seem to have a destination in mind anymore. Why was he here again?

Lunchtime finds him without an appetite, and he is allowed to sit in the corner of the room. With his arms wrapped around himself, his bare feet show, and in one hand, he clutches an astronomy book that Marge kept complimenting. But something way deep down beneath the fog seemed to tell him something wasn't right. It was almost as if it were shouting for help, but it was buried too deeply in the fog to be heard.

With glazed eyes, his look is a far away one, seeming to look beyond all that was going on around him.

Thanks

Standing herself Bree eyes smile though her lips to not. It sucked that her and Gunner couldn't have more time together even if what they were doing was mindless fun. At least she had giving Gunner a little bit of that joy in this place.

"Your Welcome Gunner, try not to bit Marge on your way to your room ok?"

Giving a chuckle Bree turns as she hears the Dr call and than looking back to Gunner. A window, he would have his window now and that might help. She was happy Hope could work that out.

"I'll see you soon Gunner."

Turning to leave Bree exits the hospital glancing down at her watch fast. She had an hour before she had to be to work how could she kill that time today.

Smiling and giving a nod to Gunner Hope was happy to help. Anything to make him comfortable as she could here she would do. She new it wasn't a pleasant place, he hated and he felt embarssed to be here but if she could do something to help him be comfortable she would.

Giving a shake of her head and a smile Katie take her seat between Jeff and Jason once again. Her heart was content having both of them here knowing they would be ok.

"No, your not interrupting anything. Your always welcome to sit with us."

Giving a laugh at Jeff's statement Katie slips her hand into Jason under the table her eyes twinkle as she continues the joke with a little bit of scarasum.

"Oh yes, because we always cheat. Thats just the time of people we are."

Giving a laugh Dan takes a sip of his water. It was good to see Jeff up and about knowing he would be ok. Dan hadnt gotten to know him on a close personal level, but he had chatted with him a few times and new he was a good guy who deserved better than dieing by the hang of The Agency he was told so much about.

Turning his attachen back to Jade he gives a grin as she shrugs his shoulders a little.

"Bowling? I honestly can say I dont know if I am good or not, I never tried to bowl before. But how hard can it be?!"

Scanning the charts Amanda looks over the information. It had been a few hours since they had given Ryan the blood and nothing had gone wrong yet. She only prayed it stayed that way.

"So far so good. Her vitals are good, and the blood is mixing well. It will only take a few more hours before we know for sure her body has accepted the blood. Than the hard part will be done, and we will just have to get her health, and see about the movement in her arm."

Letting out a small sigh Amanda looks across the chart for a moment at JT before looking back at the chart. It had been a long day and it would of been even longer if it hadn't been for JT.

"Thanks for the help today. I really do appreciate it.."

Thank you

Gunner begins to wonder about the past of the woman beside him, but he decides that now is not the the time to ask.

Instead, his knee quits bouncing again under her pat,and he cocks his head. His mouth opens to say something, but she;s already moved on to the puzzle again.

A small grin escapes. "Now all we need is to find 'dungeon.'" Leaning with his head close to hers, he looks at the jumbled letters, but then stops for a moment. He turns so his face is right by hers. "True friend, huh? That happened awfully fast, don't you th-"

"Alright, Brent, visiting time is over for today."

The overly sweet voice makes Gunner cringe, also not appreciating being interrupted. "Oh come on. All I'll do in my room is stare at a wall. I thought you guys were into healing th insane, not creating them."

The nurse frowns. "I'm sorry, Brent, you know the rules."

Gunner swings his gaze back to Bree and mouths Brent in annoyance. Finally, he stands, giving up on asking Bree how she could consider him a friend after they really hardly knew each other, let alone, he threatened her uncle. It wasn't worth fighting for more time.

Straightening, the unseen pen slips all the way into his pocket. "Where to, Georgia Sue?"

The nurse smirks. "My name is Marge and you know it. You also know we're headed to your room."

Gunner sighs and picks up the books. "Allowed?" he asks, a bit sarcastically.

"Yes, those are fine. Now come along."

Gunner gives a final glance to Bree. "Thanks for... well... yeah... thanks."

"Brent?"

"Yeah, yeah." A last shrug is all he can offer before heading to the hall.

"Oh, Marge?" The doctor who had been speaking with Hope stops them. "Please make sure all of Brent's things get moved to room thirty.It has a window he might enjoy."

"Yes, Doctor."

Gunner keeps walking, but turns his head to see Hope. Thank you, he silently relays.


Jeff smiles and leaves Rick to slowly join the other table. He gives Katie a gentle hug before sinking down in the chair, obviously exhausted just from the short walk from the bunkhouse. "Hope I'm not interrupting."

Jason shakes his head. "Not at all. As a matter of fact, you just saved us from a terrible argument."

Jeff's eyes widen. "I did?"

"Not hardly," Jade interrupts. "How would you go up against these two? It's impossible."

"Have you considered bowling?"

Jade blinks. "What?"

"You know... roll a ball to knock down pins?" Jeff grins. "They can't cheat at that, team or not." He tosses a wink to Katie, knowing that she and Jason wouldn't cheat anyway.

Jade's eyes sparkle. "Hey, you're right!"She turns and gives Dans arm a whack. "Bowling! You any good at it?"


Eli lies in the bed, his focus on the ceiling tiles, rather than the waves of nausea. The thought or sight of blood didn't bother him, but he could feel his body getting tired as it gave up a portion of its own life source to save another.

He turns his head to see his sister's form. "Hang in there, Speedy," he whispers.


JT rubs a hand over his tired face as he looks in on the room. He glances to Amanda, who held a chart. "How's it going?"

V...A...M...P...I...R...E

"I do understand where your coming from Gunner. I..I've been to many councilors myself, its hard to share yourself with someone. She's good thought I can tell that."

Giving a small half smile to Gunner, and another pat to his leg Bree just wanted him to be calm. He could be himself around her and she didn't care. She could hear a million storys about what he tryed to do and she wouldnt flinch or think differently of him. She'd been there, she'd done that..and she had the scares to prove it.

"I know you hate that I see you like this, but whats a true friend but one who walks through the fire with you. This here...means nothing on who you are. To me, I like seeing the guy in front of me who is nothing but himself. I am happy they stoped you from ending it because it wouldnt be the same being backwards alone. No matter how normal or crazy you are because I am crazy too."

Looking at Gunner her cheeks turn just a little red why she wasnt sure but she didnt try to fight it before looking down at the book again. Gunner wanted to stop talking about himself for now than she wouldnt push it.

"Ohhh...look I found V...A...M...P...I...R...E, Vampire!"

Leaning into Jason a little a smile so wide stays spread across Katie's face. A few days ago Katie had almost lost to people she found so close to her, and through her prayers God had answered them and followed through.

Yes it has been far to long, but I am happy we are here and now having this moment to do it together. I love you J.

Returning the kiss to Jason and than looking across the table at Jade and Dan Katie lets out a giggle again.

"You know just because we can talk to each other without using our voiced dosnt mean we always can. Only when we dont want other to hear what we are saying."

Sticking her toung out at Jade and than laughing again.

Shaking her head Dan sat next to Jade enjoying just watching everyone interact. It was nice to interact with some people who were his own age and even be included in the conversation. He hadn't felt that in a very long time.

"A game plan huh? I think we might be able to come up with one of those."

Dan gives a playful elbow to Jade and than leans in close as if concocting a plan of action with her.

Giving another chuckle the movment at the door catches Katie's attachen as she falls silent for a moment thought the smile on her face growing. Kaite new her dad shouldnt be out of bed yet but she couldn't blame him for wanting to. After being cooped up for so long even the sain would go crazy. She must of inherited that from him.

Looking to the empty chair on the other side of her Katie stands and pulls it away from the table looking at Jeff and than back to the chair.

"I saved you this seat. We dont mind if you sit with us Dad."

I don't know

Gunner traces a mark on the table with his thumbnail, his eyes drifting down as Hope talks. He didn't like being here... he didn't like being put in the same category as some of the other patients here. But... maybe he really did have a problem.

Hearing Hope's offer to talk to someone about another room, his head snaps up. "Um... thanks."

His eyes follow her until Bree breaks into his thoughts. "Nah..." He shakes his head. "Don't be sorry. You said what I was thinking anyway. Hope's a good person... I've seen her help someone who shoulda been put in the loony bin for good and he pulled through. I guess I've had my fill of counselors in my life so I wind up giving her a hard time."

Gunner's knee starts bouncing again without him realizing it. "I don't know why I'm here, Bree. I don't get why I can't do with my own life like I want or why anybody else even cares." He shrugs. "I know I got a few friends or whatever but... I don't know. I wish I could have just ended it all like I wanted to."

Turning to look at her, he purses his lips. "You realize I hate you being in on all this and seeing me in this state. I don't think I've ever felt more humiliated. Not your fault, I just..."

A wry chuckle escapes and he shakes his head again. "I don't even know what I'm saying. Let's finish this puzzle before Hope gets back."


Jade is laughing so hard that she has to cover her mouth so she doesn't spit her food out at the lunch table. Jason is laughing too at something he'd said, and he looks to Katie, his eye twinkling.

Been too long since we had a good laugh together.

Slinging an arm around her shoulders, he gives her a kiss on the cheek.

Jade gasps for breath, and elbows Dan. "Don't look now, they're kissing again."

"It was just a peck on the cheek!" Jason defends.

"Uh-huh. I want to know what you said in between."

"How do you know I said anything?"

Jade giggles. "I guessed?" She looks at Dan again."You realize there's no way to beat those two at anything. I think we need a plan."


As lunch proceeds, the front door slowly opens. Jeff looks cautiously inside, his face pale, and one arm was held around himself, but he'd dragged himself from the bunkhouse.

Rick is eating his soup next to Luke and Angel when he looks up to see Jeff. "My word!" On his feet in an instant, he goes immediately to Jeff's side. "You shouldn't be here! You shouldn't even be out of bed."

"I just wanted some fresh air." Jeff's eyes are tired and sunken in, but there is a small spark. Glancing around the room, he knows that everyone knows now about him and Katie. But he really wasn't all that hesitant... he was more glad the truth was finally out.

His gaze finds Katie, and a small smile forms.

"Well sit down," Rick prompts, "before you fall down. Here." He pulls out a chair.

Jeff shakes his head. "I want to go sit with Katie."

"But-"

Jeff gives him a short glare. "I walked all the way out here, I can walk across the room."

Nice

Letting compassion show in her eyes Hope gives a nod to Gunner. She new he was lost and he hated everything he was right now. She couldn't even start to imagen how she would feel herself.

"I'm sorry Gunner that you fell all these things and you feel as you have no control. Sometimes its hard admitting we have problems and we need help, but before you can even strat to let your heart heal you need to admit and face what happened than deal and know it wasn't your fault. "

Letting out a small sigh and giving a small smile looking to Bree Hope gives a nod. Gunner had found and what a friend she was. She could only hope that she would be good for him and maybe help him more without even realizing it.

"I'll see what I can do about the room with a window. Maybe even a pare of binoculars too so you can look at the starts you love so much. Let me go see what I can do I'll be back."

Getting up and leaving the table Hope makes her way over to where the dr. was to chat with him a little.

Watching Hope as she walks away Bree looks to Gunner an apology on her face. This hadn't been her place to put in but she had anywyas.

"I am sorry I cut in on you like that. Hope seems like a nice lady and all its just...how she was acting was bothering me."

Giving a small smile Bree looks to Gunner her eyes gave just a small twinkle.

Raw

Gunner really doesn't respond much to Hope. He didn't know what she wanted from him. He could say things were great here, but that wasn't true. He could say he got to stay up whenever he wanted, but that wasn't true either.

Opening his mouth, he stops, feeling Bree's pat to his nervous leg. Lifting his eyebrows, he listens, then watches for Hope's reaction, curious. He can see she's a bit confused, and that she shifts gears just a little.

Cocking his head, he shows a bit of amusement by the quirk in his mouth, and he taps Bree's foot with his own, under the table to thank her.

"Thank you for caring, Dr. Garrison." He was a little peeved, but he knew that having people who cared was good. There may have been a break in topics, but he remembered everything she'd said. "Food tastes like crap on cardboard. And I get locked in my room by eight."

His eyes hold a dimness... a lack of life. "Look..." He sighs deeply. "You know you don't have to beat around the bush with me, and you know I don't play games with you. I hate it here and I hate myself. I'm depressed and all I feel is emptiness. If they let me go now, I'd probably go find some creative way to get it all over with again because I really don't know how to live with myself right now."

He shrugs lamely. "I'm embarrassed that I'm here, and all I feel when I lay down at night is guilt. All I've done all my life was a total waste, and I still don't even know who I was before the accident. Maybe I don't even want to know any more."

Gunner picks at the corner of one of the puzzle books. It was getting harder to not be bothered by the raw truth he always spoke. His eyes lower for a moment before he glances to Bree, not knowing what she thought of all this, then back to Hope. "If you could get me a room with a window, it might make this more bearable, but... I really don't see how I can "get better" when all I do is play petty mind games with the local shrink."