I think so too

Being held by Dan, Jade felt safe. She'd been held before, even by someone she'd called her boyfriend. But it wasn't the same. Dan was so much stronger... so much more a shelter... so much warmer. It was so different that Jade wondered how she ever could have thought before that she'd found Mr. Right. Compared to this, it had felt so wrong, but she hadn't realized that until now.

Having her face lifted up and receiving Dan's light kiss, she gives a little shiver. His tenderness gave her goosebumps. Looking up into his eyes and feeling his hand on her face, she manages the strength to give him a little smile. "I think I can be strong... as long as you stick around. You're going to stay... aren't you?"


Gunner can't help the grin on his face. The chilly air didn't seem cold at all - not with Bree in his arms. Her words made him feel good. He hadn't messed up, and she had liked his kiss. He hadn't done something wrong after all, and it helped dissolve some of his awkwardness.

Still smiling, he hugs Bree tighter, letting her face rest against his chest. "I think we are too." He'd been afraid that this might ruin their friendship, but it surprised him now to find that he liked this even better. It was a whole new level, and one that felt good.

Eventually pulling away, his hand slips down to take hers, slipping back inside the dining room. Guiding her back through the house to the living room, the warmer air now felt good. The television was still droning and Gunner reaches down to flip it off before aiming for the couch.

The room was dark now, but it wasn't a scary dark. Tonight, he wasn't afraid of the shadows. He was exhausted from lack of sleep the night before, but felt like he could conquer the world at the same time. It was a strange, good feeling.

Flopping down on the couch and onto his side, he pulls Bree down in front of him so his arm could drape around her, her head right below his chin. "Stay here a while?" he asks quietly. "I don't want to be alone."


Though already so far gone, Jason feels Katie's fingers link with his, and he automatically latches on. Putting her hand in a vice grip, it felt like his palm was burning against hers. His eyes scrunch shut tightly as pain surges through his entire body like a gigantic electrical shock.

It... it hurts so bad... I can't... can't control it.

He writhes on the ground, fighting against himself and against the horrific wave of emotions that didn't have an end. They seemed to spread through every fiber, tearing him apart inside out. And worse, he could not keep them from bursting forth. With Katie's hand on his, she was the only cushion between him and everything around him. Like a sponge, she would absorb the shock and he knew it. But he also knew that if she didn't, they were all dead.

Wyatt hears Katie's scream and comes running around the side of the van. "Katie! Jason! What..." Getting close to them, he kneels just in time to hear Katie's words. He didn't understand what was happening, but seeing the broken headlight, he knew it was bad. "I'll get help. Don't move." As if they could.

Wyatt didn't know what to do, but out of desperation, he goes back to the van, grabbing his cell phone. He had power back. Dialing quickly, he calls Reese's office directly. He didn't normally speak so informally while on the job, but right now, he didn't care. "Dad, it's Wyatt. We need help and we need it bad."

"Why? What happened? Where are you?"

"We're uh..." Wyatt glances around, trying to remember what road they were on. "We turned off of highway sixty-nine onto a county road.... I think it was four-thirty-two. Just listen, and listen close. We got ambushed by four guys. Had to be Agency but we don't know how they knew we were here. Tire blew out on the van. We took out the four guys, but Jason got shot with some kind of..." He turns around and walks back over to where Jason had landed and picks up the dart. "...some kind of dart. I don't know what was in it, but it's doing a number on him. He and Katie are both down and I don't know how to get them out of here."

"What do you mean down? Are they alive?"

"Yeah, yeah, but it's bad. It's Jason's emotions. I think they're going haywire, but I don't know. He already blew out a headlight of the van, then I think Katie's trying to put a lid on it, but she's in a bad way now too."

"What about a helicopter?"

"That would work. We got one at the airport over here?"

"Yeah, Todd flew in just this morning from Arizona. Let me call him and have him pick you up. He can bring you straight here."

"Right. Notify Rick - I think we're gonna need him."

"Will do. Hang tight, Wyatt."

Wyatt hangs up and puts his hands on his head, trying to regroup. Checking to make sure Katie and Jason were still there, he hits the van, doing a quick job of collecting their things and depositing them on the ground. He goes to the four dead men, stripping them of anything that might lead to where they had come from, and he also puts the dart in a ziploc bag for Rick to analyze.

As Wyatt is trying to clean up as well as possible in the dark, Jason's torment continues. Sweat pours down from him and his whole body shakes violently with convulsions. His eyes start to roll back in his head. Even on the worst day, never had he felt like this. The pain was excruciating, and the worst part was that he could control none of it.

His mouth opens as he tries to speak, but his brain just wouldn't communicate with his vocal chords, and no sounds came out.
I can't... take it... Katie... Its too much.

A sudden convulsion jolts his whole body and his hand is involuntarily ripped from her own. As soon as he does, the energy erupts again, shattering the side window of the van.

Wyatt whirls around in surprise. As soon as he sees the episode, he remembers Katie's words. Several fast strides bring him near to them again, falling to his knees. Another burst from Jason causes another window to blow, sending glass everywhere. Wyatt covers his face with an arm before reaching down without mercy and grabbing Jason and Katie's wrists, forcing their hands back together again. Jason's muscles strain against it, but Wyatt fumbles with his belt, ripping it from his jeans. Before Jason can slip loose again, Wyatt lashes their hands together with his belt. He hated doing this to Katie, but he now realized if he didn't, there was no way he'd get them out of there. Jason would blow the helicopter to pieces and they'd all be dead.

Don't leave me, Katie...
Jason's emotional communication was desperate as he grips her hand once again.
I don't know... how long I can... I can take this.

The sound of the helicopter could just be heard in the distance.

First Kiss

Panting Katie just didnt understand why the Agency was here and new where they were on this almost deserted road. Looking to Jason a small smile forms as she rests her hand on Jason's arm for a moment before letting go so he could check on the goons.

Careful, I don't trust them as far as I can throw them.

Being cautious herself Katie watchs Jason, and the man on the ground. Though looking away from a moment at a sound to her right proved to be the wrong move as more shots were fired. Startled Katie hits the ground hopping to miss stray bullets.

"Jason!!!"

Once Katie sees the shooter go down by Wyatt she is on her feet again and to Jason's side only in the matter of moments. Almost instantly she could feel something was not right.

"J, Are you ok? What..."

Seeing the dart that was sticking out of his shoulder Kaite's blood goes ice cold. It didnt look like there was much damage but almost without warning she gets blasted with a amount of emotions she hadnt felt in a long time pluse ten. Letting out a long shrill yell Katie falls to her knees holding her head.

This wasnt right, there....Jason...he had no controlle. Hearing the light on the van shatter Katie knows this is bad, really bad and she was the only one who could do anything to keep them both together. Trying to clear her mind as much as she could it hurt so bad but she had to do it. For Jason, for herself, for Wyatt and anyone else how was around Katie had to.

Lifting her hand slowly it felt like it weighed a ton Katie takes Jason's hand in her own. Interlocking her fingers with his so she could let go, Katie does what she can to let herself take in the force of Jason's emotions. She didn't know how long she could last doing this without causing searous damage to herself but right now Katie didn't care.

Wimpering from the pain Katie opens her mouth to talk her words distorted, and soft Katie could only hope Wyatt would understand.

"Get....h...p...fast. Wh.....at..ever happens....don't let my hand fall....fa...from J..."

Working quietly Dan had known about Mick but just kept to himself for most of the night. He'd thought about alot of things and some he didnt understand or know how to react to so spending quiet time with himself was what he had wanted untill he met Jade for the night.

Turning right as Jade put her arms around him Dan was taken off guard for a moment but than relizing it was Jade and hearing her words Dan's own arms go around her. Pulling her closer to himself he leans his own head down on top of hers. Taking in the sweet smell of her hair Dan just holds Jade for a long moment.

Pulling Jade away just a little bit Dan looks down at her a small smile forming on her face. He new Jade was having a hard time with this whole thing and he couldn't blame he. It was alot to take at once but he admired her too. She was so strong and independent.

Leaning down to give Jade a soft much differnt kiss than only hours earlyer Dan's heart skipped a beat. Breaking the kiss his eyes stay on Jades as he searched there deepth. Bring a finger up to lightly follow the path the tear had made, whipping it away.

"It's going to be ok Jade, if we didnt have rain we would never appreciate rainbow. Your strong, and you need to keep that up for your Aunt, Dad and Brother. They need you."

Entering the house done for the day with her work Rosetta passes the answering machine pushing the button along the way. Going into the bedroom as the messages played Rosetta pushs some laundry away. The first message was someone calling about bording there horses, the second was from someone asking information about hay, and the last was Mick.

Stopping hearing Mick's voice Rosetta comes back into the kitchen standing just listing. Rosetta wished now she had stayed home so she could of gotten Mick's message, she missed talking to him. Just continuing to listen a tear slips out of Rosetta's eye. Mick said he would be back, but it felt like he was saying goodbye.

Flipping the light of in the kitchen Rosetta goes into the living room and sits down on the couch pulling the blanket over her. The tears would stop as Rosetta shook slightly, just crying herself to sleep.

Surprised by Gunner's sudden action to follow him Bree stands and follows almost being dragged but keeping up the best she can till they are outside. The night was chilli but it felt strangely refreshing at the same time.

Looking up at the sky Bree could feel her cheeks turn warm as Gunner's comment hit her ears. She'd never had someone say anything like this before. Having her head turned back to Gunner another comment comes, and a smile forms on her face. Gunner made her feel good, and her heart started to race.

As Gunner came in closer to her Bree could feel his breath on her skin and it felt like her heart was going to pound out of her chest, as a chill ran up and down her spin. Feeling Gunner so close Bree thought she might faint.

Closing her eyes and waiting, Bree finally feels Gunner's lips press to hers. Bree can feel her knees get weak and was glad for Gunner's arms around her so she didnt fall. A million and one feelings run through her veins.

As Gunner pulls away Bree keeps her eyes closed for a moment just standing there. Slowly opening them finally Bree looks back up into Gunner's eyes she cheek flush as a smile formed on her lips. It almost seemed like everything was brighter.

Leaning into Gunner a little more Bree continues to search his eyes. This was the moment she had been waiting for and it was even better than she could of dreamed. It felt like her words were cought in her throat but finally Bree is able to push out a few words that were a soft whisper.

"For someone who didnt know what they were doing, that was amazing. I...think we are more than friends now."

There

During the split second it took for everything to go down, Jason could feel Katie reacting to their attackers, the emotional pull being briefly diverted so she could pull on fear. He knew that his explosive anger probably stung her a bit as well, but both were learning to ignore the temporary discomfort.

Wyatt's man goes down. He'd received a bullet to the chest - it had been Wyatt's only open choice. Jason's first is hit in the shoulder, the second writhing from his exploding gun. He only had seconds left to live. The fourth man was hit in the knee and drops instantly, overcome with pain and a fear he'd never experienced.

Wyatt remains on the ground, breathing heavily, his gun still aimed ahead. Jason lowers his own weapon, making sure all four men were down before going forward.

Nice shot, hero. Looks like we've got at least two people to question.
"Wyatt, you alright?"

"Yeah... yeah, I'm alright. Sorry I didn't get a captive. I didn't have a choice."

"It's fine. Self-defense, you know that."

Wyatt knew that, and it had been his only clear shot, but he never liked killing anyone. He'd only had to take a man down a time or two before, and it always made his stomach turn. "Yeah... you two alright?" He looks under the van to see Katie and Jason's feet.

"We're okay." Jason glances to Katie and nods. "Checking out our men now. Stay alert."
I don't know why it would be Agency, it just feels like it. Something just doesn't seem right. It was too well-planned for your average thugs.

Jason starts forward, his hands still holding his gun. Out of nowhere, the man who had been shot in the knee sits up, his gun aimed. Jason doesn't have time to react, when a shot rings out. Wyatt hasn't gotten up yet, and swings his pistol back around, firing without hesitation. The man goes down, his own gun flying as he shudders for the last time.

Wyatt was breathing heavily again. "Jase? Katie? You alright?"

Jason has stopped in his tracks, stunned. He blinks, then looks down to his left shoulder where a long dart had pierced him.
Katie...
His legs buckle, and he falls to his hands and knees, his gun clattering on the pavement.

"Jason!" Wyatt gets to his feet quickly, but still has to keep an eye on the one man left alive. He didn't need to though. Wounded in the shoulder, the man rolls over and one last shot is heard. He moves no more. Wyatt stares at him with disbelief. Whoever these men were, they must have had orders not to be caught and questioned. And they apparently took their job way too seriously. It was a disgusting display of loyalty to the wrong thing.

Jason is still shocked by getting hit as the world starts to spin. Reaching down, he pulls at the dart, withdrawing it from his shoulder and staring at it in his palm before he collapses.
Katie... something.... something's not right...
Without warning, his emotions start to churn. Good bad, it didn't matter. They all started to swirl and collide. Jason opens his mouth to speak, but his brain seems to go numb, and words just couldn't come.
I... I can't control....
He starts to shake, uncontrolled energy being emitted, blowing out a headlight of the van.


Sparky gives Rosetta a smile and a nod. "Yeah... yeah, I can do that, no problem. Don't worry about a thing."

Putting away some papers in a file, he wraps up what he was doing, then leaves Rosetta alone again, going to check on chores and make sure everything got done for the night.


It was quite a while later when Jade eventually finds herself wandering into the barn. Most of the chores were almost done. People were wandering in for supper, but she wasn't following tonight. She just wasn't hungry.

Running her hand along the wall as she slowly walks past the stalls, she looks around for the person she was planning to see. Eventually she finds him in the supply room putting away some of the tools.

Just standing in the doorway a moment, Jade watches him. Her eyes were read and swollen, proving that she had been crying - a lot. She'd been thinking about the earlier fight, then she'd gotten word about Dylan, then an angry call from her mother about how what Mick was doing was so wrong, then Sparky told her about Mick's other reason for being at the McClain's. Could anything else go wrong?

Unable to take it, Jade steps into the little room and falls against Dan, wrapping her arms around him and burying her face in his chest. She'd thought she didn't have any more tears left, but more surface just now, her voice cracking. "I can't take it anymore Dan.... I just can't take it."


Mick holds back the edge of the curtain slightly, looking out the window at Dylan being taken to one of the smaller houses. His heart broke, seeing his son like this. Watching until Dylan disappeared, he lets out a long sigh before letting go of the curtain. Turning back to the other room, he wanders in by the fireplace to sit on the edge of the couch, staring into the flames. It had been about a year since he'd been here. A year. Now he'd fallen off the wagon, and his own son was here. Just half an hour earlier, he'd gotten into a shouting match over the phone with Jill. She wanted Dylan closer to them, while Mick insisted on him being at the McClain's. Eventually, she'd given up, though had dished out plenty of threats. Mick was left exhausted, his own cravings setting in to just make things worse.

"Want to talk about it?"

Mick looks up at Adam, startled by his presence. He'd only given him the brief story of Dylan when he'd arrived, but that was it. "I don't know much." He leans his elbows on his knees to rest his chin in his hands. "Don't know how long Dylan's been like this or his reasons. I knew he was into a bit of trouble, but I didn't think he'd do something like this. I thought he was a good kid, ya know?"

Adam nods and sinks down into the couch next to him. "Even the best fail sometimes. It just happens with something like this, one failure leads to many more afterward." He pauses. "What about you?"

Mick continues to stare at the fire. He hadn't yet admitted anything about himself. He was planning to, he just hadn't yet had the nerve. "What about me?"

"Hold out your hand."

Mick looks quickly to Adam. "What?"

"Hold out your hand." Adam demonstrates by stretching out his hand, palm-down.

Mick closes his eyes a moment. He didn't want to. But Adam was too smart to fool for long. He slowly reaches out, revealing a hand that was too shaky to hold anything steady.

Adam purses his lips and lays his hand on Mick's shoulder. "How long?"

"Only about a week." Mick's hand drops. "I got upset when I heard about Dylan, I went to town to see the police and when I was done... I messed up. I thought just once wouldn't bother me, but the next day, the cravings were so bad I couldn't stand it. I gave away my keys and tried to hibernate, but that night, I ended up making a call, having someone go to town and they didn't even know they smuggled a bottle back to me. The next few days were the same. The guilt got to be so bad I just... started losing it. I didn't think it could happen so fast or get so bad within such a short amount of time. I figured it woulda taken me more than once to start back up again, and that even then it wouldn't be so bad so quickly."

Mick's eyes remain down, his shoulders lowering. "When I knew I wanted Dylan here, I... decided I needed to be here too."

Adam just nods, listening to the whole story. "With some people it does take more than once. Some people can go back to having a drink once in a while and not having it bother them. Others, it might take a steady few weeks for them to pick up the habit again. But you're not the only one who is that sensitive to it. I know others who are like you, Mick. Once is all it takes and it's not a gradual process - it's an immediate nosedive. The thing is... most people like that wait longer to get help. I'm glad you came."

He pauses, studying his longtime friend. "Would you have come if it weren't for Dylan?"

"I don't know. Eventually maybe, but probably not before someone else brought me."

A gentle smile creases Adam's lips. "Then maybe something good has already come from Dylan's situation."

Mick allows something close to a smile too. Maybe Adam was right. "I think I'm going to head to bed. I want to make one phone call then... then I'll turn in my cell phone."

"Alright. Just leave it on the kitchen counter. Brenda will put it in safe keeping for you."

A few minutes later, Mick sat on the edge of his bed. It was the same room he'd had before. He didn't need much care this time. He wasn't a danger to himself, and he wasn't going to try and leave. But he did just need to make one call before being cut off from the rest of the world. He knew Adam and Brenda wouldn't force him not to talk to anyone else, but it was strongly recommended, and he knew it was for the best, at least until he had a handle on this thing again.

"Rosetta, it's me..." Mick pauses, not even sure what to say. He hated answering machines, especially their own. "I just... I wanted to let you know I'm okay and... and I love you. I'm at the McClain's... Dylan is here too, though I haven't spoken to him yet. I um... I guess I want to say I'm sorry again, but no matter how many times I say it, it doesn't change anything. I just hope that... that when I come back..." He swallows hard, trying to remain composed. Though he knew the strain in his voice would be heard by his wife. "...I hope I can be the man you deserve. And I'll try... I'll try to make things right. I don't know how long I will be here, but... I'm hoping it won't be long. I'm hoping I can beat this thing quickly so I can come home. I miss you already."

He stops again, wondering if he was really talking to no one, or if Rosetta would just let the machine pick up because she didn't want to talk to him. He wouldn't blame her if she did. "I love you," he repeats. "If you need to get a hold of me, just call Adam or Brenda. I'm giving my phone a rest while I'm here."

Glancing around the little room, he tries to think of any more he can say. "See you soon... tell BJ I love him too."

Click.


Gunner's face felt as if it were on fire, but he musters up a little smile anyway, his hand giving Bree's a light squeeze. "I don't know what you're thanking me for. I'm just repaying a favor."

He could see the faint flicker of disappointment in her eye though, and he could kick himself. Suddenly he sits up straight, letting go of Bree. "Come here." Standing, he grabs her hand to pull her up too, dragging her through the living room and into the dining room that was rarely used. The sliding glass doors made for a perfect view of the night sky, away from street lights. Since he hadn't turned the lights on inside either, it made looking out even easier.

Bringing Bree right up to the cool glass, he points upward. "See that?" Waiting until she's looking up, his gaze drops to her eyes, just looking at them for the longest moment. A small smile tweaks the corner of his mouth. His voice drops to almost a whisper. "I just wanted to find out if I could see the stars in your eyes."

He reaches out gently to tip her chin towards him instead of the sky. "Funny thing is... you don't have to be looking at the stars for me to see them... they're always there. It's like... a mini solar system just waiting to be explored."

Swallowing hard, his hand remains touching her face. He was glad it was darker in here than in the living room. It was just as well, so Bree didn't have to see his burning face.

"I... want to... be able to explore it." Moving his hand so it cradles the side of her face, his thumb runs down her cheek, then slowly over her lips. They felt warm and soft under his touch, and a tingle runs down his spine. Stepping closer, he wraps his other arm around her, bringing her to him. Three times now, he'd chickened out, and three times, he'd seen the disappointment in her eye. Maybe he was foolish, but he couldn't help it. He couldn't keep on messing up. Not when his feeling for Bree were growing so much stronger with every passing moment.

Leaning his head down to meet hers, his eyes close and he pauses, feeling her breath on his skin. "I want you to know," he whispers, "that I have no idea what I'm doing." Not allowing time for a response, he finally presses his lips to hers. A feeling washes over him like nothing before, his thumb still tracing out her cheek, his other arm giving a strong hold around her.

Pulling back just a little, he opens his eyes to search hers, almost scared that she might be upset with him.

Exspected

Entering the office Rosetta new Sparky would be there but it didn't bother her. Sparky offten was in the office with her helped with paper work and any other odds and ends.

"Your don't have to leave on the account of me. I just figured I would do some work to keep my mind off things."

Pulling a chair to the one side of the rest Rosetta gives a small smile. Looking down at her paper work for a moment Rosetta thinks for a long second. She wished some how she could thank him.

"Sparky, maybe before you bed down for the night you can just take a walk around the ranch and make sure everything it locked up and ok for me?"

Rosetta didnt want to say it but not having Mick here made her a little worried about the silly things all over again. It almost felt like the ranch wasnt safe because the shelter was gone. Buy if Sparky checked everything out, maybe that would calm her fears.

Moving around the barn Dan does his chores before starting the ones Mick usually did. He figured Rosetta hadn't asked him, but he new what Mick usually did so he might as well. Not to mention he still had time till he was to meet Jade.

A small smile forms on Bree's face at the comment that she was tickling. Just resting her hand on his chest Bree dosnt move her fingers this time not wanting to tickle him again even if she liked it when he smiled.

"Sorry, I didn't mean to."

Searching Gunner's eyes and seeing him lean twords her again Bree can feel her heart thump in her chest so loud. Maybe this time, even though she never had before maybe Gunner would give her the kiss she had been waiting on.

Feeling Gunner come closer, and closer Bree closes her eyes as she can feel the color coming to her face, and room go up in temperature. But as the kiss comes to her forhead Bree opens her eyes. It wasnt what she was expecting, but Gunner still had just kissed her.

Giving a smile to Gunner, her eyes show that she had been exspecting something else but she would settle for this. and Bree could feel the slight color on her cheeks.

"Thank you Gunner."

Bree was starting to feel a little better already, and be here with Gunner, she felt safe.

Taking her gun from her side Katie checks it quickly making sure it was loaded and the safty was off. Listing to Jason's plan she gives a nod, it was simple but easy to mess up. They had one shot, and one shot only to take these guys down.

"Just make sure you get down Wy. I just wanted something to eat not a hospetal trip ok."

Worry showed in Katie's face for her friends and Jason too, they did this all the time and every time she would worry.

Are you sure they are Agency? The only thing I can think of is they followed up. But than so many more questions stem from that like how did they know we would turn down this road.

Not having much more time to think about it now Katie gets close to Jason waiting for the count, following him out of the van and staying low.

Taking the fear that Katie could feel from these men she holds on to it tight using her own emotions to make it worse for them. The confutation continued as Katie didnt dear lose grasp on them for a moment. Having an open shot, she takes fire at the last man standing aiming for the knees cap so not to kill, but keep from chasing them.

Chaos

"Yeah... I think it does." Bree was so close, it made Gunner's heart skip a beat. He looks into her left eye then her right, searching... searching for what was going through their mind.

Out of nowhere, he lets go of her face and reaches to press her hand to his chest, keeping it still. The corners of his mouth twitch with a grin that wanted to emerge. His eyes are brimming as he tries to speak quietly without laughing. "That tickles."

He could feel his pulse speeding up again and tries to tell himself it's only because he was trying not to laugh. But he knows that isn't the whole truth.

Biting his lip he just can't take his eyes off hers. It was as if there was a magnetic force that held his stare right there. Moving a little closer, it was the third time he'd gotten himself in this position, and all over again, he didn't know what to do.

He cocks his head slightly as his lips move towards her, his heart trying to beat out of his chest as he anticipated what it would feel like. But suddenly there was a fear of making a mistake, and a soft kiss lands on her forehead instead.


Sparky drops off BJ's things with Becky, noting that Jeff and BJ were just outside, apparently looking for something particular in nature as they scoured the yard. He briefly explains what's been going on and Becky assures that whenever Rosetta needed a break, she and Jim were more than happy to look after BJ.

Afterward, Sparky finds himself wandering to the office to finish up that paperwork that he'd told Rosetta he would take care of. Getting inside, he goes about his task, surprised with Rosetta comes in as well. He hadn't expected her to come into the office at all, with the way she'd been feeling.

Getting up from the desk, Sparky gives her a gentle smile. "I'm about done so you can have the desk back. I, uh... got the order in for the grain and it should come tomorrow. And BJ's still out with Jeff. Becky says everything's good, whatever you need."

He stops, thinking if he'd covered everything. "I think.... that's it. Anything else you need done?"


Wyatt stares ahead, trying to come up with an answer. "Uh... Jason, you're the leader here."

"Aw, thanks." Jason goes for his hand gun, passing one up to Wyatt and making sure Katie had one too. "I'm not taking any chances. We take them out."

Wyatt's eyes widen a little. "Just like that?"

"Well, unless they're willing to come without a fight. But... by the looks of things, I'd say no, they want us for something, and I'm not opting we wait and find out what it is."

"Agreed." Wyatt nods and cocks his gun. "Alright, Captain, what's the plan?"

Jason doesn't hesitate. "Katie and I don't have time to make an impression before things to haywire, so we're gonna have to shoot first. Wyatt, you get out and hit the deck and try to take out Lefty. I'm gonna take the side door and try to take out the middle two. Katie, as soon as I'm out, you get out behind me and aim for Righty. They've got high-powered rifles. My plan is try not to kill, but at least immobilize them. Soon as shots are fired, if they have any fear or surprise at all, Katie, increase that as much as you can."

Agency. It's got to be Agency. How they knew we were here, I'd like to know.

The men were getting closer. Jason takes a deep breath and Wyatt looks back to them both. "We don't have a choice. Let's go."

Jason nods. "On my mark. One... two... three."

Wyatt flies out the driver's door, hitting the ground and firing as soon as he had the left man in his sites. Jason shoves the side door open and rolls out, aiming for the second man with his pistol. Shouting and shots ring out in utter confusion. Without even thinking, Jason zeros in on the third man's rifle and a ball of negative emotions are hurled in its direction. The rifle explodes, sending the man flying. The fourth man is taken so by surprise that he hesitates when he should have fired, lost in the confusion for but a moment.

Chest Hair!

Hitting the bump and getting jolted around Katie ends up next to Jason almost on top of him. Once the van comes to a stop Katie sits up examining her elbow she hit a little to hard.

"And I thought you were a good driving Wy."

Finding her elbow fine Katie pulls out her phone and takes a look at it. Seeing she had little to no signal she lets out a sigh.

"I do believe we are...."

Katie words die out as Wyatt talks over her and she looks out the front window where he had pointed. A gasp seemed to form in her throat.

"I do believe we just fell into a trap. Eather of you have some bright ideas?"

Rosetta was thankful for what little Sparky was doing. She had a good brother in law and she new it. Maybe as a thank you she would ask him to join BJ and herself for dinner.

Once Sparky is gone Rosetta moves around the house cleaning. Some stuff she even cleaned two times just because she could. It felt so empty here without Mick, Rosetta just wanted to keep her mind of everything.

Finishing up in the house she heads to the office. There was some paperwork she had to finish up, and a few phone calls she had to make she might as well do it now while she had the chance. Grabbing her jacket and closing the door behind her Rosetta makes her way to the office.

Hearing Gunner's soft words were like a blanket being wrapped around her. It made her feel warm and good on the inside. Thought the wormth was differnt from her Uncle's it felt good, and even if she didnt fully understand it, she wasn't scared of it.

Once Gunner replaces her hand on his chest Bree moves her fingers lightly thought the hair on his chest. It was soft and it felt nice under her fingers. Tilting her head up just a little to look into Gunner's eyes a tiny smile forms behind her eyes. Just gazing at his eyes for a long moment Bree can feel her heart start beating, as her hand just shaking a little bit. A chill ran down her spin as she leaned her head into Gunner's hand just a little enjoying the way her ran his finger over her skin.

"Does that mean you will protect me?"

Bree's voice was soft as she was memorized by eyes stair. Leaning twords Gunner just a little bit to straghten out her back Bree gaze never broke from his, as her heart pounded in her ears.

Uh-oh

Gunner sits quietly as Bree begins to speak, not having any idea why she was starting to explain her past. How it was connected with tonight, he didn't know. But as she continues, it didn't matter to him anymore how it was connected.

As she reveals her past, and her attempt on her life, Gunner couldn't believe it. Memories flash in his mind of seeing Bree in the little diner for the first time. Seeing her at JT's and how she laughed at all the silly jokes and stories. Finding information about her work at the children's hospital and how good she was with the kids. He recalled her visits to him at Northside and her comfort, strength and undying acceptance, no matter what he did or said. The nights gazing at the stars would be embedded in his mind forever. She was the kindest, most compassionate, caring person he had ever known. To think that someone had pushed her far enough for her to want to leave this world, it was... it was an unbearable thought.

Finding out what her parents had done to her, he began to understand the hints that had been dropped in casual comments along the way. And it angered him. He wasn't sure what this new feeling was... he didn't recognize it. But it was definitely anger. It wasn't a mad anger though... not the kind that would make him scream or lash out. It was the righteous kind. The kind that sought justice. The kind that hated wrongdoings and that could only be eased by seeing someone pay for what they had done. How could any parent do that to their child? Especially one so innocent as Bree? Thinking of her being hurt caused a strange sensation of pain in his own heart.

Listening further, he bristles the same as he had when he hadn't known it was her at the door. These people... the people that had caused so much harm.... they were here... and they had someone following her.

Gunner feels Bree nestle in closer again and his beating heart almost hurts as he hears her fearful words. Instead of answering her right away, he reaches for her wrist, unbuckling her watch and letting it slide off. Wonder filled his eyes as he takes her hand in his. He looks at the scar and runs his thumb over it, studying the mark that she would wear forever.

"This isn't the mark of a coward." His words are soft... softer than they've ever been. "It's the mark of a survivor."

Placing her hand back on his chest, he then tilts her face upward, seeing the traces of tears. He'd never felt this way before... feeling sorrow for someone else's hurts. He didn't like it when other people were hurting, but he'd never actually felt it before.

"They can't take you anywhere," he assures. "Not as long as I'm around."

Looking into her eyes, he soaks up their gaze. His hand shifts to cradle her face with his palm and he can feel his heart rate pick up again. "If anyone deserves freedom, it's you."


Once Rosetta is able to get up, Sparky stands as well. He gives her a wry grin and looks at the wet spot on his shirt. "It'll dry," he assures.

Following her gaze to the bottle, his heart sinks a little lower. Making up his mind, he walks to the dresser and picks it up. "I'll get rid of this for you," he offers. "I'm also gonna grab some of BJ's things to take over to Jim and Becky's so you won't have to worry about that."

Starting for the door, Sparky stops and looks back at Rosetta again. Taking his bandanna out of his pocket, he reaches it out to wipe away some leftover tears. "If you need anything, don't hesitate, okay? I'm gonna stop by the office when I'm done here and finish up some of that paperwork that needs to be taken care of and call Ben like Mick was gonna do, so we get that grain delivered. And... I'll give the others the brief version of the story so no one will have too many questions."

He nods, confident he'd remembered everything. Looking at Rosetta's red eyes, he bites his lip, seeming to want to say more, but then goes into the hall to go to BJ's room. Finding the boy's backpack, he manages to find a couple sets of clothes, one of BJ's favorite stuffed animals, and at the last minute, he grabs the game of checkers.


"Yeah, right." Wyatt smirks, but a smile spreads, proving that he wasn't really as grouchy as he sounded.

Jason grins.
He'd be miserable without someone to pick on him. Somebody's got to keep him on his toes.

Wyatt slows the van down and takes a right turn. "Alright, food here we come. But it's gonna be fast food, got it?"

"Yes sir." Jason salutes to the rearview mirror. "Drive on."

A few miles down the road, there's suddenly a big jolt to the van as if they'd run over a large object.

Wyatt's grip on the steering wheel tightens. "What the..." The van swerves from side to side, until he can slow it down and take it onto the shoulder. From the thump, thump, thump, it's obvious that they've blown a tire. "Aw, great."

Jason's eyes are wide as he hadn't been buckled in, and had rolled over to the side. "What was that?"

"I have no idea. I even had the brights on and I didn't see a thing."

"It wasn't just the tire blowing was it?"

Wyatt shakes his head. "No, we hit something alright. Beats me what it was though." He glances in the side mirror, but sees nothing. They were on a pretty deserted road, and nothing was in sight. "Alright... we gonna draw straws to see who gets to go out in the cold?"

"Well we could but..." Jason thumbs to the back end of the van. "Unless you've got a tire hidden up your sleeve, we're gonna have to walk."

"You're kidding me." Wyatt turns around just to see that Jason was right. "Aw great."

Jason heaves a sigh and looks to Katie. "Well... it's about five more miles to the next town. I guess we walk."

"How about we use our heads and call someone instead?" Wyatt reaches for his phone, only to discover that it doesn't work. "What on earth..."

Jason grabs his, and finds the same dilemma. Frowning, he goes for the Elite equipment, to see that no battery or electrical devices are working. "That's weird. Are we in some major dead zone or something?"

"Uh, guys... I don't know.... but they might." Wyatt's voice had become strained as he stares straight ahead to see four men walking towards the van with semi-automatic rifles.

Past

Just feelings Sparky's comfort was nice, it was just nice having someone there. For the last few weeks Rosetta had felt so alone even when people were near. Leaning into Sparky more Rosetta's tears continue. She wanted to say something, she wanted to say anything but when he words tryed to come she just got choked up. So crying was her only sound.

Moments passed and they felt like hours that she sat there and cryed but finally her tears started to slow, and her gentil shaking calmed down. Sitting up Rosetta whips her eyes knowing she must look like a mess and slightly embarrassed. Trying to give Sparky the best smile she can.

"Thank you Sparky. For everything it means a great deal to me. Sorry I got your shirt a little wet there."

Something close to a chuckle escapes Rosetta's lips trying to find humor in her own joke. Standing and brushing herself off Rosetta gives a small nod to Sparky.

"I guess I should clean some stuff up around here."

Her eyes fall to the almost empty bottle of whisky and she can feel the ping in her heart.

Not being able to laugh with Jason and Wyatt going back and forth Katie could feel the tears in her eyes form. It was good to laugh like that after a mission to remember what the finer things in life were, and picking on Wyatt was so easy.

"We are off the clock anyways Wy."

Reaching out Katie ruffles his hair as she lets her laughter through to Jason.

"Who said we were talking behind your back mmmm? We could be talking about what we want to eat."

Poor Wyatt, he always gets our beatings huh? I think he'd miss it if we didnt though.

Feeling Gunner's arms slip around her Bree almost instantly could feel part of her fear being removed. Gunner's strong amrs being her shelter, she felt like the world could not touch her here with him. His warmth, his skin was rough but soft, it just seemed to bring comfort.

Feeling Gunner's hand on top of hers Bree opens her eyes and just looks at it, while the beats of his heart seemed to give her a calm feeling.Moving her fingers under his his, Bree's fingers felt his soft chest, she was shaken up still but just something about Gunner, made her insides flipflop and the fear didnt feel important anymore.

Shifting just a little to sit more comfortable leaning on Gunner still Bree takes in a long sigh. Not answering Gunner right away it was almost like Bree hadnt heard him. But finally in a soft voice that was straned with emotion she speaks.

"I...never was normal you know. In my younger years I was the strange one, dressing funny, saying the wrong things, not talking to much. My parents tryed to get me to be normal, took me to classes on how to eat, and speak. How to brush your hair, and put on make up but that...was never me."

Bree takes in more as are blinks her eyes slowly. It was almost like a movie taking her back to her childhood she had done so well to forget.

"That was when my dad started his run for senator, and my mother just lived off his money. There were party at our house almost every night and every night I would be locked in my room so I didnt say the wrong thing. My parents were embarrassed by me."

Memories, lost in one mind, bad ones that hold so much power, you think they are gone but they only lay dormant if conquering them has not happened.

"I lived like that for 18 years. Never really talking to my mom or dad, never having any friends, and spending all my time in my room. The day came when I was so tired of it. I just didnt want to live like that anymore."

Falling quiet Bree removes her hand from Gunner's chesk and brings it to her wrist where she wore a watch with a thick leather band. Unhooking it Bree turns her hand over and lifts it just a little so he could see the scar than ran from her palm to part way down her wrist.

"I have scars to, but mine dont have heroic battle tales.Only cowerd nightmares of a girl who just wanted to be loved."

Drawing silent again Bree sniffs trying her best not to get Gunner's bear chest all wet. The tears had stopped but her nose just wanted to run now. Though she didnt want to move to get a tissue and lost the feeling of Gunner, almost like if she did he would vanish before her eyes.

"Three years I spent in a mental hospetial that made North side look like a dream come true. I...I dont remember much about when I was there but it was a horrible place. On my parents orders they did shock treatment, kept me dopped up on meds. In the end it did more harm to me than good. Messed my brain up and well I am who I am today. I spent the next worst three years there."

Another breath escaps Bree's lips as she gives a little shiver just thinking about it.

"When I turned 21 they couldnt keep me anymore, it was aganst the law than because they couldnt prove I was permanently insane. So they let me out, and as soon as I could I came here to see my Uncle. He'd always been the one I could count on, and I new I could trust. I didnt tell my parents where I was going thought they new I was out. I didnt want them to try and make me go back there."

Bree's hands picked at her jeans as she thought for a long moment. It was hard reliving her past, but in a way it kind of felt good to tell Gunner. Like maybe they would be even closer because of it.

"After 7 years of hiding they found me. I got a call from my mom the other day, and than today I saw there bounty hunter Roger while I was at the cafe. He didnt try to talk to me, but I know he saw me, and I know he was there for me. That was only a few hours ago."

Turning her face into Gunner's chest one could tell what she spoke next really did scare her.

"I dont want to go back to that hospital Gunner, I couldn't take it."

Emotions

As Bree stops his hand, Gunner's pulse automatically quickens. What was she doing? He straightens again and looks at her, catching those deep eyes that stared back at him. No words were being spoken, but it seemed somehow it didn't matter right now. Gunner was confused, but his voice had suddenly left him.

Feeling Bree's hand on his face, then moving to his arm and chest like she had the other night, warmth creeps into his neck and face. She... wanted to touch him. But the emotions in her eyes weren't quite what he'd expect. It wasn't just a want for physical attention, but something more... she was afraid, but not of him.

Starting to open his mouth to question her, Bree surprises him again by leaning into him and resting her face on his chest, next to her hand. By now his heart was beating rapidly again, surly pounding in her ears as loudly as his own. She was so warm... so soft. A chill runs up and down his spine, not knowing what any of this meant. Then he felt a hot drop hit his skin from Bree's face.

Drawing back a little, he sees now that she is crying. And he has no idea why. It must not be him...otherwise she wouldn't have come to him like this.

Feeling totally inept, Gunner didn't know what to do. It seemed like an eternity, but really it was only a few seconds before his arm moves, slowly slipping around Bree's shoulders. Drawing her in a little closer, he holds her, letting her take whatever time she needed. He was clueless as to why she was upset, and it felt odd to be on the other end this time. He'd been the one needing a shoulder since the beginning... and though it didn't feel good to know Bree was upset, it did give him a little warm tingle inside, knowing maybe he was helping her this time.

Gunner tries to decide how to help, but he still felt pretty awkward. Eventually though, he takes his other hand and puts it over her hand that was still resting on his chest. He moves a finger to wipe away a tear, then just remains still, his heart still pounding with the bubbling emotions brought on by holding Bree.

"What is it?" he asks quietly. "What's wrong?"


Wyatt quirks an eyebrow and looks in the rearview mirror to smirk at Katie.

Jason grins.
I don't mind a bit. I think I feel an attack coming on now...
"Hey Wyatt..."

"Here," Wyatt interrupts, having fished a candy bar from down beside the seat. "This will give your sugar a nice kick."

Jason's eyes narrow.
Thinks he can win at this game, does he? Ah, but he forgets...
"Wyatt," he repeats.

"What?"

"I outrank you."

"Aw, you wouldn't. You said there wasn't anything between here and the airport."

"I would." Jason grins evilly. "And all you gotta do is take a detour off this road for about ten minutes to get to another town."

"Jase..."

"Food!"

Wyatt groans and shakes his head. "Alright, alright! But we're off the clock."

"Of course." Jason throws Katie a wink.
All it takes is just a little bit of know-how.

"And quit talking behind my back!"

Sugar

Bree sees Gunner start to pick up his shirt, but suddenly she feels her hand reach out to stop him. A flutter goes through her stomach and she raises her eyes to his. She just wanted someone to be near, and she needed comfort, not formality.

Looking deep into his eyes Bree just searches them, finding that strange feeling she had, had the other night. Though it had been strange at the same time it was almost comforting. His skin had felt so warm under her finger tips, and it had held a feeling that Bree had liked and wanted to feel again.

Bringing her hand up to the side of Gunner's face she jwas not even sure what had driven her actions. A longing, a want, a need to have someone close. Gently running her finger over his cheek bone and down his jaw line, than tracing the vain down his neck, Bree pauses.

Continuing to stare into Gunner’s eyes – those eyes that shone with the sun and moon – she brings her hand down to his arm, then up over his shoulder and to his chest once again. Bree cheeks grew warm, but this time she didn’t look away. Feeling the warmth under her hands seemed to calm her fear but form a small other one. These feelings she had for this man were strong, she liked them, she felt safe.

Leaning into Gunner to rest her check against his warm chest, tears rolls down Bree's face. It had been a long time since she had cried. Maybe too long but now her fears were coming true and that was exactly what her parents were betting on.

Leaning up to the front seat again Katie was happy to go home, but there was that part of her that wanted to stay too.

"You know Wy, if Jason has an attack from low sugar Rick will be all over you for not stoping for food. Not to mention Misty will have Carson tell Aerith an ohhh boy you would be in hot water. Sure you dont wanna stop for food?"

Giving a sidelong grin Katie sticks out her toung.

You some know times I like using your sugar aganst people. I hope you dont mind to much.

Katie cant help the small laugh that escapes.

Shirt

Still sitting on the couch in the same position, hearing someone at the door makes Gunner tense. Sitting quietly, he listens as the door opens. The hair on his arms stands up and he cranes his neck back to see the house entryway. Relief sweeps through him as he sees it's just Bree.

Relaxation only lasts a moment as he realizes that the living room is basically now his bedroom, and he feels a bit awkward all of a sudden. Turning to the coffee table, he straightens the duffel bag underneath and picks up his dirty socks so they're out of sight. He didn't know Bree's routine... if she was here to spend the night or just sack out for a while, or pick something up then leave.

Glancing at the television, he knew he probably wouldn't startle her, but he didn't know if he should greet her or... what.

Just ready to get out of the way if need be, she suddenly joins him. Looking at her quickly, he tries to give a little smile. "Hey... didn't think I'd... see you tonight."

Something seemed a little odd. She appeared quieter than normal, and she wasn't smiling. Was it because he was there? Clearing his throat he reaches for his bag again, this time for a t-shirt. He didn't want to embarrass her like the last time.


Dylan remains quiet, not arguing with Katie, and trying to appear as though he were ignoring her. But to the expert eye, he was having a hard time not digesting what she was saying.

Jason leans back, letting his hand slide down to take Katie's. He gives her fingers a little squeeze.
We've done all we can. It'll be up to someone else now.

Finally, finally, the McClain ranch comes into view. The sun was setting, and there were only a few vehicles around. They were expected though, and Adam is first on the scene to meet them, along with another man there to help.

Getting Dylan out of the van proves to be a bit of a task, but once he's out in the fresh air, Adam has him uncuffed. Jason's ready for him to bolt, but surprisingly, Dylan stays put, not looking anyone in the eye.

Adam lets the three know that Mick is there, but in the background for now. Though not saying so in front of Dylan, it's obvious that he didn't think it wise for Mick to be right in the forefront as soon as Dylan arrived. Nothing is said about any other reasons Mick might be there, and it's assumed that he's just there to make sure Dylan gets settled before going home.

Dylan is prompted towards the house, still uttering not a word, his head down, his feet dragging. As the van heads out once more, Jason lets out a weary sigh. "There's nothing between here and the airport, but I'm starving. Any ideas?"

Wyatt shakes his head as he keeps his hands on the wheel. "We can pick something up there... otherwise, we'll be back home in a few hours."

He's so much help.
Jason gives Katie a grin.
This day was an easy case, but I'm exhausted. You holding up alright?


Sparky's heart hurts as he listens to Rosetta. He had wondered about Mick's drinking, but had had no proof to ever question him about it. Finding out the truth was painful. And apparently Dylan wasn't in too good of shape himself. One family issue like that was bad enough, let alone two at the same time.

"Shh... it's okay." Sparky hugs Rosetta close, rubbing her back as she cries. Part of him knew he needed to be a little cautious here - this was his brother's wife after all. But right now she needed a shoulder, and Mick wasn't around. Sparky wasn't willing to just let her fend for herself.

"He'll come back," he assures. "You know he will... he always comes back." He gives her an extra squeeze. "He's got a problem. At least he's going to do something about it right? That's a good thing."

Pushing her hair away from her tear-soaked face, he lets her lean into him and just cry. It was obviously something she needed to do.

"You're not alone, Rosetta. The rest of your family is here... things will be okay. You got us taking care of the horses, and... and you'll get help with everything else. It'll be okay."

He felt redundant, but he didn't know what else to say. He finally falls quiet.

Tears

Feeling Sparky's arms around her Rosetta wasnt sure if she was thankful for them or upset that he had to see her like this. It had been so long since she had, had a break down that now she just felt embarrassed. But remembering this was Sparky and how much he had helped her in the past it would be silly to be angry with him.

Leaning into Sparky Rosetta just leans on him as her tears still come. She didnt know what to say, or what to feel she just wanted to cry. Finally catching her breath Rosetta was able to talk in between her sobs as she see sought comfort in his arms.

"Mick...he's...been drinking since he slipped the other day and no he left to go to the McClain and he dosnt know when he will be back. Dylan is going to be there to because I guess they found him with some friends and he was pretty high. I just....dont know what to do Sparky. What am I going to do without him here? What if he dosnt come back? I...I just cant deal with it."

Pushing her face into Sparky's chest even more Rosetta's tears pick up agian. She wanted to stop, but she didnt know how, she wanted to not feel broken but she did. Everything was a mess.

"No one thinks they are better than you Dylan. We only wish we understood. You are I, we dont get alone but that dosnt mean I dont care about it. If I didn't I wouldn't be here. I would of told them to find someone else. But I didnt."

It is sad to see this. I've seen it before, a long long time ago with people I use to call friends. Getting yourself messed up like this is...a quick fix to lose the pain but once the high is gone, the pain is ten times worse.

Leaning forward Katie puts rests her elbows on her knees picking at the dry skin on her finger for a moment than looking back at Dylan. Searching his eyes, looking deeper, trying to find the boy that was in there some where still. Her own eyes trying to show compassion and understanding.

"We are taking you here because we care. There is no other option, and life is two short to let the people we love walk alone no matter how much they want us to."

Turning her eyes from Dylan Katie looks to Katie and than out the window. They would be there soon as the scene's started to look a little familiar.

A fear races in Bree's heart as she stands on her Uncles pourch leaning her head against the door for a long moment. Finally opening the door to the house quietly as to not wake Gunner if he was sleeping Bree steps in.

Hearing television play in the living room Bree new Gunner was still awake. Still feeling so scared she was shaking. Bree new she had seen him, it wasn’t just her mind. Sitting in the dinner waiting for her float tonight it was clear as day when he walked in and looked right at Bree. Those cold steel eyes would not be ones Bree could forget so easily. Why wouldn’t her parents just leave her alone. What had she done? She wanted to start over, she liked her life now, and she liked Gunner. But they had the power to destroy her and everything she held dear.

Walking twords the living room Bree looks in to see if Gunner was awake and seeing the him shift on the couch a little she knows he was indeed awake. Giving a little sniff to let him know she was there Bree enters the room fully and sits down next to him.

Galncing over and seeing Gunner was shirtless once again Bree would of smiled, or felt embarrassed but she was to upset. Maybe she could just talk with Gunner for a little bit, and than leave him be. She just needed someone, even if that someone was shirtless. But who better for that than Gunner. Bree couldnt help smiling in her head, boy did he look good.

Cocky

"No, I don't... wait... just... awww." Jim bites his tongue from letting slip what was in his mind. Lying under his back under the sink, things were not going well. Hearing his phone go off on the kitchen table, he lets it ring for now. He'd look at it later.

Becky ducks to look under the sink, trying not to laugh. "I'm sorry. Can I do anything?"

"No." Jim groans and slides out so he can sit up. "Other than get me something to drink."

"Now that I can do."

Jim grins and tosses his wrench aside before getting up and checking his phone. The message worried him, and it must have shown on his face.

Becky hands him a glass of iced tea, frowning at the look he had. "What's wrong?"

"That was Rosetta... said Mick was gone for a few days and wondered if we'd watch BJ for her 'cause she's a wreck."

Becky's eyebrows rise. "That's... strange. Did she say where Mick was going, or what was wrong?"

"No. Could have something to do with Dylan though. That would be my guess."

"But why would Rosetta..."

Jim looks at his wife, still worried. They had both mentioned to each other the question of how things were between Mick and Rosetta lately, and both had been concerned. But neither wanted to make assumptions either. "I'll go see what's up."

"Yeah. And yes we can handle BJ. I'm more than happy to have a little one around here."

Jim grins and gives his wife a kiss on the cheek. "Me too. Be right back and don't use the sink!" His exit is followed by Becky's laughter. Jim opts to check the dining hall on his way to the house, unsure where Rosetta would be. He just didn't want to call - it sounded as though face-to-face would be better this time. Sticking his head in the dining hall, he glances around. "Rosetta?"

Sparky stops his strumming on his guitar and looks to the door. "Not in here." Something seemed odd. "Everything alright?"

After a quick explanation, Sparky volunteers to go find Rosetta. He was more involved than Jim was, and Jim agreed that he'd go find BJ instead to keep the boy out of the way in case Rosetta was more upset than he thought. The brothers split up in different directions, Sparky heading to the house. He knocks on the front door but doesn't receive a response. Contemplating his options, he knocks again, then finally opens the door cautiously. "Rosetta?"

Coming in all the way, he looks around. Things seemed normal. Quiet. But then he hears something down the hall. "Rosetta?" Heading down the hall, he realizes that the sound is quiet sobbing coming from the bedroom. The door is open, but he's still careful, stepping into the dim room. He's about to call for Rosetta again when he spots her on the floor and his heart gives a leap.

In an instant, he's on his knees next to her with an arm around her shoulders and speaking softly. "Rosetta... are you okay? What is it? What happened?"


I hope so, Hero... I hope they can help him. But it will really depend on whether or not Dylan wants the help. I know Mick wants him helped and that's why we're going to the McClain's, but they can only do as much good as their patients want them to. If Dylan doesn't want to be there... forcing him won't do any good, and may just make it worse. Let's just hope he's still got some brain cells of sense left.

Dylan stares back at Katie, seeming to take forever just to process what she was saying. He knew what words she was saying, but his mind was so lethargic that it took him a while to put everything together and understand what she meant. Surprisingly, he doesn't argue back. Instead, his eyes fall to the floor.

Trying to adjust his weight, he finds it hard with his hands cuffed behind his back. "Can't you take these things off?"

"Nope," Jason responds flatly. "You're stuck with them, Bud."

Dylan frowns, shifting his gaze to him. "You're Jason, aren't you?"

"That's right."

"Who sent you guys? If it was the cops, they woulda had me in jail already."

Jason exchanges a glance with Katie. The truth was always best. "Your dad. He's included in that batch of worried sick people."

Dylan scoffs, rolling his eyes.

"Hey." Jason gives him a light kick with his boot. "Don't diss your dad. You're lucky you got him around to care at all, believe me."

"Yeah, well he never cared enough to be around before."

"Everyone makes mistakes. You can't hold onto that bitterness, Dylan. Hating him won't do anyone any good."

"You're a sniper, not a counselor."

Jason quirks an eyebrow. "You think you know a lot, don't you?"

"I know you two are freaks." Dylan's eyes narrow, lucid enough for his cockiness to show through. "The Elite has their own two little superheroes."

Jason forces a slight laugh and shakes his head.
He's lucky we don't throw him out while we're going down the road. He's got some attitude.
"I wouldn't call us superheroes... just smart enough to use what we got. What about you? How far have you gotten with what you can do?"

"Ha!" Dylan smirks at the idea. "All I can do is get into trouble. Or haven't you figured that out yet?"

"Oh, we figured it out. But we know there's more to you than that. What I'd like to know is why you're flushing it down the toilet."

Dylan clams up, his jaw muscles working on his tension. "Where are you taking me?"

"A place that can give you help."

"The only help I need is to be left alone."

"That's not the answer, and you know it. I know you're not stupid."

"Then why can't you just leave me be?" Dylan's look turns into a glare at both Jason and his cousin. "Why can't anyone just leave me alone? That's all I want."

Jason shakes his head, disgusted. "Ever thought you have more than one person that cares about you?"

Dylan pulls his knees up closer to his chest, his wiry frame making it easy. One could clearly see that he'd lost much weight, and it wasn't a surprise. "Ever thought I didn't need them?"

"Oh yeah... yeah, you've done a real good job on your own. How long you think you'd last with those doped-up friends of yours? A week? A month? How long 'til you got desperate for a fix and messed with the wrong punk on the street? How long 'til you got a knife in your gut for challenging the wrong dealer, huh?"

Dylan's glare falls to the floor. "You don't understand."

"How about you help us understand?"

"You think I just took off on a whim the other day?" Dylan gives a laugh. "No one pays attention to me. No one cares where I go or what I do. Ask my mom where I've been spending my nights the last two months and she'll tell you in my bed. Then go see how many times my bed's been slept in. I'm not as stupid as you think I am. Only when she realizes I'm gone does she apparently call my dad."

Even then, she didn't call Mick.
Jason shakes his head again. "So you've been at this game a while now, huh?"

Dylan seems to want to answer, but falls silent again instead.

I wonder now how long it really has been. He looks like he's been down this path a while now, not just a week. Something seems off though. Notice how he looks like he wants to say more, but doesn't? I wonder if some of his so-called friends already got to him and he's afraid of ratting them out. Sheesh... how does someone get this far?

Surprisingly, Dylan seems to be able to read Jason's face. "Don't pretend you're better than me," he hisses. "You don't have a clue where I've been."

"You're right. Care to share?"

Dylan lets himself fall to his side, curling up the best he can, and taking another hard jolt as a pothole is hit. "You can tell my dad to just forget about me."

"You can tell him yourself. He's going to be meeting us."

Dylan's face seems to change from anger to almost fear. His eyes find Katie again, almost as if begging her not to take him.


Gunner slips on a clean pair of jeans and runs a towel through his almost-dry hair. Ambling back to the living room in his bare feet, he goes to the couch and flops down before putting his things back in his bag underneath the coffee table. It had been a long day at work, his mind pulled in a million directions at once. But once he'd been able to leave, he'd gone home and packed his bag. He'd almost changed his mind about going to JT's, but after a short time in his own apartment, he knew he at least needed one good night's sleep and he wasn't going to get it unless he went somewhere else. Getting across down and finding the key had been easy, and after that, the evening was free for him to explore a little bit, then settle himself down.

Sighing, he pulls his legs up to sit Indian style. The house was quiet. He could hear two clocks ticking. One in here, and one in the kitchen. It was strange... but even though he was alone, it felt better than his apartment. Dark shadows didn't lurk here. It was a peaceful house. And he knew without fully knowing JT that this was a godly house. No wonder Bree liked it here. It felt... safe.

Gunner eventually picks up the television remote, assuming he had the house to himself after JT's call and not hearing from Bree all day. He'd almost called her, then had opted to let be. Leaning back, he clicks on the television to find a B movie.

Help

He looks like he is semi with it. Might as well take it off for a little bit. I wont be scared to put it back on though.

Looking down at her cousin Katie lets out a sigh. Hearing him say her name Katie new he was a little more down to earth now than he had been before.

"Yeah Dylan its me."

For a moment Katie goes silent again. How much should she really tell Dylan at this point? If she told him to much he could make it harder on them and himself with a struggle. But than again maybe if she just tried to covey there worry that would be different all together.

"We were worried sick about you Dylan. You went missing and everyone panicked. Than we found you doped out of your mind and that worried me even more."

Katie didnt know what to say so she feel silent again. Though her mind still ran a million miles a minute.

Whats going to happen to him J? Will they be able to help him?

Being left to stande alone in the house as the sound of Mick's truck rumbles down the drive way more tears from in Rosetta's eyes. Her husband was leaving and she didnt know when he would be back. Though she new it wasnt her fauly, she couldnt help thats feeling.

Going to her phone Rosetta's dials Jim's number. Trying her best to keep herself composed. It was hard, and she hurt. Getting the voice mail Rosetta leaves a quick message as her sobs are small.

"Mick left for a few days and I am a reck, I was wondering if you and Becky Jim would watch BJ for me. I just...need some time alone I think, and I dont want to have him see me like this. Just let me know when you get this message."

Hanging up the phone Rosetta sinks to the floor putting her hand into her hands as her shoulders shook the sobs ringing out in the room.

Picking up her phone and seeing the message Bree hadnt even hurt her phone go off. Seeing it was her Uncle Bree wasts no time listing to the voice mail. A smile forms on her face as she hears more than likly Gunner will be staying with her. Bree wasnt sure why that made her extreamly happy, but maybe it was because he would get to see him more now.

There was a few things she had to do around town today, and her normal float. Maybe after that she would see about calling Gunner to both him for a little bit.

Any surprises

Mick shouldn't have been surprised by Rosetta's reaction, but her embrace is something he hadn't expected. He had been so foolish, and he felt so weak. He knew that she was upset with him, yet she was strong enough to support him still. He didn't deserve a woman like her.

Slipping his arms around her, he just holds her close, quiet for several minutes... just hugging her, as if he thought if he let go, he really might lose her. His face is buried in her hair as a tear slips out. He'd tried so hard to hold everything together, but as a result, he was close to losing it all. His sons, his daughter, his wife, his friends. So wrapped up in trying to conquer his own addiction, he'd lashed out at others, and tried to hide in the case with Dylan so no one would suspect it was something else that was wrong. But in the end, all it did was make things worse.

Drawing in a shaky breath, Mick finally pulls away. His hands cradle Rosetta's face as he leans in to place a tender kiss on her lips. "I'll be back," he assures quietly. "I promise. If I don't do this, I'll never get it right." It was for his son... and it was for himself.

Finally letting Rosetta go, he turns to pick up his bag. It wasn't three minutes later that one could hear his pickup starting, and he was heading down the driveway.


Sparky looks out of the barn, seeing Mick's truck pull away. Odd. Where was he going? Had he heard from someone about Dylan? A chill runs down his spine, hoping that his brother wouldn't actually have left. He couldn't believe that. Maybe he just needed to go blow off some steam. Sparky hoped that's all it was.

Looking around the barn, a wave of sadness hits him. He really did like it here. He always had, even way back when everything had just started. He hated not feeling like he belonged, and even more he hated knowing that it was just one person that made him feel that way. He wanted to believe Rosetta and Angel that he was wanted. Today though, he couldn't find anything to do to keep him busy.

Wandering to the dining hall, he lets himself in to go make a cup of hot tea. Maybe it would help settle his nerves. There was no one else inside, so he takes his time, finally winding up in front of the cold fireplace. After a short while, he sets his cup down and reaches around to pick up his guitar. Strumming a few chords, he tunes it until he's satisfied with the sound. Settling back, he picks out a quiet song, the minor tones holding a sorrowful yet soothing sound.


Kip grins as he takes Karla's phone number, then gives a wave as she leaves. Watching until she was inside the building, he pulls away from the curb and heads home.

Arriving back, Erik is still up, waiting for him before going to bed.

"Get her home alright?"

Kip nods, playing with his keys. "Yeah."

Erik thinks for a moment, cocking his head. "She seems nice. I'm glad you had her over."

"Really?"

"Yeah. As long as you two behave yourselves, I don't have any problem."

Kip smirks a little. "Thanks for your confidence."

Erik gives him a light slap upside the head while grinning. "Anytime."


JT is just heading out the door for work when his phone rings. He contemplates not even answering it, but he thinks better of it, and goes ahead and picks it up. "Yeah, hello."

"Hi, JT... it's Gunner."

JT grins. He didn't need the introduction - Gunner had a unique enough voice that he recognized it. "Hey, Gunner. What's up?"

"Um... about your offer..." Gunner rubs his tired eyes. "I thought maybe... well... I don't know, I just..."

JT pauses getting ready to go, concentrating on Gunner's weary tone. He could tell without being told that his friend was tired - most likely from another bad night. "Key is under the doormat," he interrupts. "Since I'm not gonna be around, I doubt Bree will be over for supper, but there's plenty of stuff here you can help yourself to. Blankets in the corner of the living room - couch is all yours."

Gunner swallows hard. How he'd landed friends like these, he'd never know. "Thanks... thank you."

"Not a problem, Gunner. Thanks for watching the house. If you need anything, you know where to call." Once the call was ended, JT dials Bree quickly. "It's me. Just wanted to let you know quick that Gunner will be at the house tonight. He didn't say so, but he sounded tired, so I'm glad he took me up on the offer. Didn't think you were planning to come over, but didn't want you to have any surprises either."


The drive took several hours, and Dylan was in and out of his own little world for most of the time. Gradually though, the fog seems to lift a bit and having given up struggling against the handcuffs, he just lies on the floor, eying Katie. He looks at her, then Jason then back to Katie, just studying her for several moments. He mumbles something, but can't make anything sound right under the tape.

Jason glances to Katie.
Think he's gonna be calm enough to talk sense now?
He shrugs.
We can always put it back on if he's not.
Reaching down, he rips the tape off without mercy.

Dylan gives a little groan at the pain the tape causes, and just lies still for a few more moments. He squints at Katie again, a bump in the road jolting his line of sight. "Katie?" He moves around, eventually able to sit up with his back to the side of the van, looking across at her and Jason. "What are you... what's going on?"