Friends

Eli glances over to Ryan, wondering at her tone. Did she know? It wouldn't take a genius - he'd been hanging around for much longer than thought to begin with, without ever mentioning returning to Florida. He just hadn't wanted to admit what was really going on, but he hadn't wanted to leave either.

"Sure... You're a plus of course. But looks like mechanics aren't too hard to come by around here - as far as I could see, your auto shops are all filled up." He shrugs. "As far as food goes, I've been eating off of you for too long already."

Pausing for several moments he finally leans forward with a little groan, tossing the pack of cards aside. "Ryan..." He rests his elbows on his knees, putting his chin in his hands. It was rare that he would refuse to look her in the eye, but he did now. "There's stuff... I mean... " Sighing, he suddenly stands up, pacing a little and looking up to the ceiling. "I haven't been too smart, Ry. I come with... a long list of regrets that I'd rather not have to admit to my sister."

Eventually he stops pacing and looks down at Ryan. "I, um... I've got people that would just prefer I got back to Florida. But not because they miss me. They just want my wallet. Unfortunately, you can't squeeze blood from a turnip and right now, I feel like a turnip."

He didn't know if his implication that he owed money was enough for her to understand or not. "And..." He stops. "I didn't want to tell you this... I guess 'cause I'm mad at myself." He shrugs. "I want to stay here... I really do. Main reason is you. Another reason is that I've been rooming with another guy 'cause I couldn't afford my own place. And... another reason is that... I don't have a job anymore. When I said I was mooching off of you, I wasn't lying... I really have been."

Hooking his hands in his jeans pockets, he just looks at his sister, obviously embarrassed, but at the same time, relieved that she knew. There were a lot of details though.... and he owed her an explanation. But he'd let her digest what he'd just said first.


Sparky cocks his head and stops alongside Faith, sensing something wrong. Listening quietly, he doesn't interject, though his facial expression softens, his eyes showing he was troubled by the news of this new friend.

As she looks up at him, he lets his eyes linger on hers, not afraid to see her emotions shimmering through them. "Anybody in your shoes would be scared," he responds quietly. "There's nothing wrong with that."

Thinking a moment, he gives a little nod. "Annie was right - this is a good place to take care of yourself. We got our problems, but you won't find a better bunch of people, and Angel's a right fine doctor to look out for things after the surgery... 'cause I'm sure you'll make it through just fine."

Sparky offers a gentle smile. "You're a good example for anyone... living the day as if it's your last." Pausing, his eyes roam to the darkening ranch, then back to her eyes. "How can I help make that happen?"


"Bret, what on earth are you doing here? Do you know what time it is?"

Bret looks up at his big friend lamely. It was very late, that's all he knew. In reality, it was near one o'clock in the morning. It had been dark for quiet a while, and he was pretty sure that he'd woken up Con by his disheveled hair and tired eyes. "Can I come in?"

Con furrows his brow warily. "You been drinking?"

"Yeah..." Bret couldn't lie to Con. "Just a little."

Con sighs and opens the door. "Come in."

Bret looks down as he enters, and just stands like a whipped puppy until Con moves him to the living room chair to sit. Con looks at him with question. "Well?"

Bret swallows hard. "Charlotte and I... well no... we didn't really have a fight. I just..."

"Lost your temper again," Con states flatly. "What happened?"

"I don't know." Bret's eyes stay on the floor. "She just... she got another job without telling me and... and I just... I don't understand."

"Mmm." Con leans back in his chair. He'd probably be quite upset if Jamie did that, but that wasn't what Bret needed to hear right now. "So you walked out?"

"I didn't want to fight," Bret defends. "I... I... okay, maybe I yelled at her before I left. But I wanted to calm down so... so I got a drink then... came here."

"Or two, or three," Con corrects knowingly while frowning. "So Charlotte tells you she got a second job and you flip."

"At a nightclub!" Bret elaborates with exasperation. "Singing! I didn't even know she could sing. And she's pregnant! She shouldn't be working so much, let alone hiding it from me."

"Well, she's got a little time before she needs to settle down," Con reasons. He wanted to reprimand Bret for his reaction, but it was hard, imagining himself in that same position. He wouldn't be upset with Jamie - he would be furious. "Know why she did it?"

"Kinda." Bret moans and puts his face in his hands. "I guess I'm not good enough. I can't provide enough and I'm not even worthy to be let in on everything."

"Now hang on, don't blow it out of proportion."

"I'm not, Con! This is exactly what happened with Maria. We started with little fights, she started taking on things that she didn't let me in on, she decided I wasn't giving her enough, then one day, she realized she didn't need me anymore. Charlotte and I are heading down the same path. I can feel it and her keeping a job a secret from me just confirms it."

Con studies Bret's face for several moments. "You're scared of losing her, aren't you?"

"Terrified." Loosened up by alcohol, Bret's eyes fill. "I'm not doing a good enough job. I... I can't make enough money - I've been out of work forever 'cause of that stupid accident. I'm gonna have to support a family now, and my wife is out working two jobs. What does that say about me?"

"It says your wife loves you very much." Con shakes his head. "But it also says you two need to work on your communication. You're right - she shouldn't have kept that from you. She's probably got a whole list of reasons why, but she should have communicated with you. And you - you shouldn't be telling me this - you should be telling her this."

"But she'll just point out that we need the money!"

"Then either figure out a new job for you or swallow your pride until something better comes along."

Bret's shoulders drop and there is a long pause. "Can I just stay here the night?"

"No." Con rises and points to the door. "You need to go home to your wife."

"But-"

"No." Con waits for Bret to stand as well. "I'm not going to assist in hindering your marriage. Don't lay down and give up, Bret. You did that once. Fight to keep what you got this time. You know Charlotte's worth it."

"But I-"

"Walk a straight line." Con points to the floor.

Bret rolls his eyes and walks a straight line, going through a short routine to prove he was sober enough to drive, though he was inebriated.

"Now go home," Con directs. "And don't stop at the bar on your way."

Bret heaves a weary sigh and nods lamely. "Yeah... yeah, okay." Getting turned out, he limps down the walk to his car, feeling even lower than when he'd arrived.

Con makes sure his friend is on his way before shutting the door and letting out his own sigh. Shaking his head, he turns off the lights and heads back upstairs. Easing into bed, he gives a little groan, knowing he needed to cram in some more sleep before work in the morning. "Friends," he mumbles. "Gotta love 'em."


Bret parks in the drive and sits thinking for several long minutes. He was a bit more alert now, but just as depressed. Maybe he was more mad at himself now than anything. He was still upset with Charlotte, but he felt worse for yelling at her like he had.

Eventually, he gets himself to the front door and inside, finding only a small light on. Glancing into the kitchen, he sees that she had indeed fixed supper, and now it sat lonely and cold. Turning to the living room, he limps a few feet, seeing Charlotte lying on the couch. Just looking at her for a moment, he finally sheds his jacket and sets his keys aside.

Sitting on the edge of the couch, looking to his wife's face seems to shatter the anger he had left. He reaches down and runs a hand through her hair, then gently shakes her shoulder.

"Hey," he prompts quietly. He knew as soon as she woke, she'd be able to tell he'd been to the bar, but at this point, he knew there was a lot that needed to be said anyway. "You should be in bed."

Focus

Wanting to retort and make comment's back to Bret defending herself about why she didnt tell him Charlotte couldn't get a word in edge why. Maybe in a way it was better that way or she would just make things worse.

Leaving the laundry for now Charlotte's goes after him as he lets out a howl. Wanting to make sure he was ok. But as she gets to the kitchen the chair goes flying across the floor. As it hits the wall and breaks Charlotte gives a jump wrapping her arm around herself.

Just watching Bret leave the cold glare cutting through her hot tears from in Charlotte's eyes. From anger, being upset, shame. Slowly going over to the chair Charlotte sinks down to the floor picking up the broken peaces of the old oak chair. It was the only one in the set they had, that didnt match but it was special. Her grandmother had given it to her a few months back before she passed away. It wasnt much but it meant a lot of Charlotte.

Taking the peaces Charlotte just looks at them for a long moment thinking if she could put them together but it seemed unlikely. Standing and putting them over in the corner so I could be taken out with the trash.

Moving back to the fridge the tears still streamed from Charlotte's face but she had to figure out what was for dinner tonight. Bret said not to wait up, but she would have dinner on the table for him anyways.

Keeping her eyes straight ahead as she walked stealing glances at Sparky everyone once and a while. A smile on her face showing she was having a nice time just walking.

"I'd like to really learn how to ride a horse. Always wanted to since I was a kid, I just never had the opportunity too."

Continuing to walk, Faith lets out a thoughtful sigh at the mention of going home. It hadnt come up in conversation and she wasn't trying to hide it, it just simply hadn't come up. Looking at Sparky Faith gives a smile at Sparky.

"Oh, maybe I will go back sooner or later but right now...its just not in focus."

Stopping for a moment Faith leans against the one fence that was coming to an end just looking at the ground and thinking for a moment. The only person who new was Annie, and soon Rosetta, and Angel when they talked to them. But maybe having another friend know would be nice too. She wasn't ashamed it was just hard.

"I have nothing left in Thailand. My family is gone, and most the money I had was spent on Dr. bills that didn't do a darn bit of good."

Looking up at Sparky again Faith's eyes held emotions of someone who was thinking about something that was important and a little scare at the same time. Knowing Sparky would have no idea what she was talking about Faith continues.

"I've always had trouble with headaches as a kid. Normal migraines is what my parents always thought. As I got older sometimes the headaches were so bad my vision was blurry, and I'd just have to stay in a darkroom till it was gone. About nine months ago when your sister came to Thailand she was my live in."

Moving her toe in the frozen earth below her for a moment Faith gathers her thoughts before looking up again.

"About a week after she had been staying with me I ended up blacking out. Annie took me to the hospetil and come to find out I had a tumor in my brain about the size of a golf ball. The Dr. didnt understand how I was still alive seeing as it had been there for a while. So I ended up going into sugary and having it removed. We thougth they got it all and for the last 7 months things had been really well. Than a month ago my heackahes had come back. I wasn't blacking out or anything but the pain of the headaches were back, and sometimes they hurt even more than before. So I went back to the Dr and had more test run. It would seem they didnt get all the tumor out that first time. How that happend I dont know, but the medical field in Thailand lacks the skills and tools."

Letting out another deep breath looking up at the twinkling starts.

"So, I came here with Annie because the resources in the US are so much better to have the tumor removed for a second time. Annie told me the best place to recover would be here at the ranch and she wanted to give back the hospitality that I had shown her. Knowing her sister in law wouldn't mind. She even said there was a Dr. on site here so if I needed one."

Looking at Sparky and searching his eyes for a long moment Faith found comfort in them. For a reason she didn't know when she had just met him but it was there.

"Now, I want to try and live my life each day and a time savoring what I can. Going in for the brain surgery for a second time there is alot of scar tissue from the first time, and its tricky. I could die from it. I just have to trust my life is in God's hand and live each day like its my last. Though I addmit, I am scaried more than I let on."

Katie's eyes widen just a little as she listing to Rick. What he said made sense but still, it was a bit surprised what he wanted Jason to do.

Even if they didn't mean to brand us, its still there and it doesn't change the Agency knowing who we are. I guess we will just cross that bridge when we come to it.

Leaning back on the bed again Katie just lets her eyes fall shut. She felt so tired, maybe rest right now WAS the best thing.

Just watching the tv for a long moment Ryan listens to what Eli says but dosnt reply right away. She had known for a long time something was wrong with her brother. She could get the vibes from him, and even after all these years could read him like a book. She just hadnt said anything because she was trying to respect his privacy. But now he was mentioning he would be going back and she wasn't even sure why.

Turning her head a little to look at her brother Ryan just studys him for a moment before nonchalantly inquiring.

"Why would you want to go back to Florda Eli? You have me, a home, food everything you could want. Not to mention a job easy working at one of the shops. I wouldn't mind if you stayed anyways."

Unspoken

Bret rolls his eyes. "I didn't mean everyone but me knew you had a job. I meant any other husband with any brains will know that his wife has a second job!"

He takes a step closer to Charlotte, gesturing with his hands. "I don't care what color fingernail polish you got and I don't care what brand hotdogs you get from the store. But you'd think that if you went out and got a second job, you'd have the decency to tell me about it, instead of hiding it!"

He snatches the paper back from her. "At a nightclub! What were you thinking?!" His temper rises with his voice. "Of all places, you had to choose a nightclub! 'Hey, Bret, what's up?' 'Oh, nothing, just my pregnant wife is singing at a nightclub without my knowledge.'"

Throwing the paper back down, he starts to stalk away, then turns around again. "You didn't want to make me feel bad. So instead of talking to me about finances, you decide it would be easier just to hide a job from me. Were you ever going to tell me? Or were you just going to find out what a fool I really am to be so blind? I'm your husband, Charlotte! I have a right to know about these things. This isn't just something little that doesn't matter! It isn't the same as 'Oh by the way I bought a new dress.' We're talking about a job and our family's income."

Bret pauses, staring Charlotte in the eye. "And you deliberately hid that from me."

It hurt. It hurt deeply and Bret felt betrayed. If only she'd told him. If only she'd discussed it with him. If he'd known their finances were so bad when he was in the hospital, he would have figured something out with her, and he might not have minded her taking on a second job for a while. But at least he would have been in on it. At least he would have had a chance to give his opinion and help make the final decision. But instead, it had been hidden from him.

Spinning on his heel, he heads to the kitchen, limping as his leg throbs. Arriving to the tiled floor, his foot hooks a chair leg, cranking his knee. Already in enough pain, Bret lets out a howl. Too angry to care, his good leg swings around and gives the chair a swift kick. It flies away from the table, clattering on the floor and banging against the wall, breaking one of its legs.

Bret limps to the counter and grabs his car keys, then heads for the front door. Donning his leather jacket, he throws one last glare over his shoulder. "Don't wait up for me."


Sparky continues to walk, his pace much slower than normal on his evening rounds. He glances down at Faith, his eyes curious. "I got the time," he admits. "I'm not the greatest teacher in the world, but I could probably get you started at least."

He checks a gate then keeps on walking. "Takes time though. There's a difference between getting on a horse and going, and learning how to ride. If you want the first, I could throw you on a horse tomorrow. If you're interested in really riding though, I'm assuming you won't be around that long. You're going back to Thailand, aren't you?"


I know... the Agency scares me too. If it was just me, I wouldn't mind so much, but knowing they're after you too... I don't like that at all.

Rick heaves a deep sigh and turns back around to see Katie. "I know you don't like being in the dark, Katie, and I'm sorry. I just wanted to give you time to rest."

Jason looks to Katie, then back to Rick. "Tell us what you're planning and then we'll rest."

"Okay. I want you to blow something up for me."

Jason's eyebrows rise. "You what?"

"I want you to blow something up. Nothing big, but I don't want you spending your energy on that right now."

"Um... and why do you want me to do that?"

"I want to tape it. And I want to study how the item bursts. Before we can investigate your marks further, we need to understand how you work naturally. It's just something I want to see."

Jason eyes him suspiciously. "You don't think it's a brand, do you?"

Rick hesitates. "No. I know it seems to be, and I know the Agency shot you with something that caused the chain of events... but I don't think they knew you two would end up with a permanent mark. Just let it go for now, rest, and when you're both feeling better in a couple days, we'll continue the research."

Jason sighs, but gives in.
I'm too tired to care at this point. Let him do his thing. We'll find out what he means soon.
Thanks for hanging in there with me, Hero. I love you too.


Eli shuffles the deck of cards in his hands, leaning back in the living room chair. There was an awkward silence. There wasn't normally between him and his sister. But there was now, and he knew that she could tell there was something he wasn't saying. She was back on her feet, back to work, and he'd seen her race. Yet he still stayed. He had not gone back to Florida yet, and though he was living out of the same small duffel bag, he hadn't made mention to leaving either.

The tv was on, but Eli wasn't paying attention to it. Supper was undecided. They might do takeout Chinese. But for the moment, his mind was far away. He needed to tell her.

Glancing up, he catches Ryan's eye. The stare that looked back at him told him that she knew something was up but was respecting his privacy. "I suppose one of these days I better head back cross-country," he muses. "I think I've mooched off you long enough." A grin seeps out, showing that he knew Ryan didn't think of it that way. But there was still more... there was still more he wasn't saying.

Busy

Charlotte looks at her husband and just blinks for a long moment stoping her folding of the cloths. She hadn't expected Bret to get this angry. Keep her own voice calm Charlotte just turns to him.

"Well lets see, I am not making you feel stupid at all, because I havent said anything that should. Next not everyone knows in town knows I have a second job. It was a very small night club that not many people went to And I didn't tell you because I didnt want you to feel bad."

She really was trying the best to do this with a pure heart for her family. Now, now it was blowing up in her face. Charlotte was more upset with herself than anything else.

"I was just trying to help out Bret. I wasnt trying to make you feel stupid or anything. I was...only trying to help."

Just listing to Sparky again Faith keeps her own hands in her pockets keeping them warm. Though it was cold she didnt mind to much it felt good, the cool air, the nice fresh smell.

"So you must like it here if you always come back right? I can see why. I haven't been here for very long and it already feels so peaceful. I'm really happy I got the chance to come here with Annie."

Giving a smile that was light up by the soft moonlight that was partly hidding behind the clouds. Mustering up the courage to ask.

"Maybe when your not busy, do you think you could teach me how to ride?"

How stupid

Gage eyes Sapphire a moment before letting go of her hand and walking back into the kitchen. Scrounging in a little basket of change and odds and ends, he finds what he's looking for and returns. "Then here." He holds out a key. "I got two when I moved in. I've never used it."


"Me?" Sparky chuckles, his hands keeping warm in his jacket pockets. "You could have chosen a more interesting topic than that," he teases. But seeing Faith really was interested, he shrugs. "Haven't been here all my life, no. In Texas, yes, but here and there. Family history is a crazy one - too much to bore you with, though I imagine Annie's told you some. Known Rosetta for the better part of my life. And... settled here for the past year or so." He shrugs again, giving Faith a grin. "There's really not much to tell. I've kinda been a wanderer, but usually wind up back here."


Bret's eyes widen at Charlotte's explanation and he blinks as if having a hard time believing it. "You..." His eyebrows lower as he begins to frown. "You've been holding two jobs? Since I was in the hospital?"

Searching Charlotte's face, he lets out a little scoff. "Thanks for telling me. You knew I didn't know about it, and you what... just thought I didn't need to know?" He throws up his arms. "Didn't want me to worry about money? That's what I do, Charlotte - I'm the one with that responsibility. Why didn't you tell me?"

Shaking his head, it's very clear that he's not happy. "I'm probably the only fellow in town that has no idea his wife has been holding an extra job. How stupid do you like making me feel?"

Zip

Giving a little chuckle about Gage doodling. She was sure if giving the opportunity he would do great at drawing. Getting an idea Sapphire tucks in the back of her mind to remember it for a little later when Christmas was closer.

Receiving Gage's little squeeze to her hand Sapphire's eyes scan the tree before glancing at Gage, and than around the room. Sipping her eggnog again.

"If you leave the door unlocked I might just bring more goodies. I think it would be safer if I just had a key. Its nice having someone to hang out with and share my time with."

Katie shakes her own head not understanding. She would rather know what was going to be going on now, that have to let it sit in her mind.

"Rick, tell us now or we wont get any rest. Not knowing what you have planned is not going to let us rest because we are gonna be worried even when you tell us not to be."

Letting out a sigh and leaning back in the bed again Katie's mind wonders all over the place. Wanting to know what would happend next, what would they do, and what would happen? So many questions that wernt being answered.

Well we having the resting place and understanding with each other finally, but no matter what, being on a medican or not we will always have to worry about the Agency as long as they know our powers exists. I think that's what scares me the most not our powers but The Agency!

Continuing to help Sparky Faith was having a great time. The small talk with him never left a dull moment, and learning new things about the horses was a blast. Faith felt so comfortable about Sparky and helping him she lost track of time.

"A walk in the crisp country air..."

Faith zippers up her coat a little higher pulling the collar around her neck to stay warm. Smiling at Sparky she gives a nod.

"..I am ready if you are."

Exiting the barn and walking for a few short moment in silent Faith decieds to strike up her own conversation.

"So, we talked about the horses and we talked a little about me. What about you? Have you always lived here?"

Taking the paper from Bret Charlotte scans it for a long moment before sitting it down on the counter. Looking up at Bret she searches his face for a moment before saying anything.

"Its just a letter telling me my last two shows I will be getting only half of what I normaly do because I am quieting."

Charlotte continues to fold the cloths she had just washed getting ready to put them away.

"Since I am getting later in the pregnancy and you will be able to go back to work soon, I wont need to work two jobs anymore. The only reason I took up the night club job was because I was trying to take less stress off you. I didn't want you to worry about money."

Charlotte's motives were pure as she eyes tryed to tell Bret that. She had dont this for both of them, and she did it for him. The last thing she wanted was for Brett to worry while he was trying to recover.

Nightclub

Gage looks back at the tree and smirks. "Art. Right." He chuckles softly. "The closest I've ever come to art is doodling on a napkin." He pauses in thought. "'Course that could be 'cause I've never even had more than an ink pen in my hand." He could remember once a long time ago he'd seen a box of crayons and would have done just about anything just to have the blue one.

Hearing Sapphire's thank you, he keeps his eyes on the tree, but his hand gives hers a squeeze. Taking another sip from his eggnog, he smacks his lips again. "You keep bringing goodies like this, and I'll start leaving the door unlocked for you," he teases.


Rick nods his agreement with Katie. "I'm not sure about building up an immunity but we can try. My guess would be that if this is a kind of amplifier, if you'd been the one shot, you woulda sucked Jason dry, overwhelming yourself and putting him down pretty quick."

Jason sighs deeply, running a thumb over the tender marks on his palm. "You really think this was on purpose? I mean the mark? There's no substance that could burn a hand from the inside out, let alone no where else, and let alone in a definite pattern. That just doesn't make sense."

"Katie's right though," Jeff intercedes. "Intentional or not, nobody else is gonna have marks like these. If they didn't do it on purpose, they'll find out quick enough and they'll always be able to find you."

Jason doesn't even seem to be listening and he looks to Rick again. "What are you planning to try that I need to be stronger for?"

"Um..." Rick shakes his head. "Don't worry about it now. Just rest. Both of you."

Don't worry. Yeah. Right. We're sitting here half dead with alien brands on our hands and he says just rest.
Jason closes his eyes and lets his head sink back in his pillow.
I'm so tired of this. I thought we'd finally reached a resting place.

Rick exchanges a look with Jeff then turns to go back to his work.


Sparky looks down into Faith's eyes, a little smile turning up the corner of his mouth. The brim of his hat almost hid his gaze, but not quite. "If I minded, I wouldn't have asked, now would I?"

"Sparky?" Jade calls. "Sparky, are you in- Oh." Jade stops, seeing her uncle in the stall. "Hi. Have you seen Dan?"

Sparky steps away from Faith and shakes his head. "Not for a while."

Jade suddenly realizes that Sparky wasn't alone, and she looks at him with question.

Sparky nods to Faith. "This is a friend of Annie's. Her name is Faith. Faith, this is my niece, Jade."

Jade grins and gives a little wave. "Nice to meet you, I... wait.." Her eyes widen at Sparky. "Did you say Annie?"

"Yep. She's in the house. Gonna be here for a bit."

"Yay!" Jade squeals. "I'll have to go see her. But I have to find Dan first. Ohhh, I'll have to introduce him. I don't think he's ever met Annie before..." Her voice trails off as she keeps on heading down the barn aisle.

Sparky chuckles and shakes his head. "That girl's energy never ends." He coils up the leadrope and hands it back to Faith so she can help him some more. "She's been through a rough time lately though... I'm glad she's got Dan around for someone she can spend time with. My brother, her dad, doesn't approve but... Dan's not a bad guy."

Reaching around Faith, he closes the stall, latching it shut. "Okay... lets go get some more of these hungry brutes."

It doesn't take long to get the fifteen horses in the barn. In the meantime, others have been brought in from a different pasture. Most hay and grain is fed, getting chores done a little earlier as Sparky wished, so everyone could take their time with supper.

Hanging up the leadropes, Sparky sighs and sets his hands on his hips, looking around the barn. "Well... I need to take a quick walk around the place," he informs Faith. After spending several hours with her, talking just came as smooth as if he'd known her for years. "You're free to come along, but it's getting a bit chilly, so if you'd rather go back in the dining hall, I'm sure others are already getting ready for supper."


Bret hobbles from the kitchen into the living room, favoring his leg that was still quite sore. Confusion was on his face as he finds Charlotte. He holds up a sheet of paper after having gone through today's mail.

"A letter about a change in wages? For a nightclub?" He searches his wife's face. He'd thought she was working some strange hours at the caves, especially since there were not visitors this time of year, but he hadn't questioned her. Surely this was some mistake.

By the way..

Following Sparky out to where the horses were Faith was a little nervous that she might not to something right, but did her best to hold some confidence in herself.

Not giving hesitation to letting Sparky helping her Faith lets him show her how to do everything. She wanted to learn and she thought it was neat to have Sparky taking the time to teach her. Feeling his hands on her Faith can't help the chill that ran up her arms. Sparky's touch was rough of a working man but soft at the same time.

"Ok so hold it like this right?"

Walking side by side with Sparky Faith lets out a small laugh as there small talk continues. She'd really warmed up well to him and didn't feel quiet as strange anymore.

Entering the barn once again and having Sparky put his arms over her shoulder Faith trys to pay attachen but cant help the tingling feeling she had felt before. It was strange to feel this way with someone she just met, but after spending most of the day with him Faith felt like she had known him all her life.

"Fifteen more, my goodness how many horses are at the ranch?"

Giving a small laugh Faith turns to look at Sparky flashing a smile. Not realizing just how close he was to her as Faith turns around she becomes face to face with him. Biting her lip just a little Faith looks into Sparky's eyes for a long moment.

"I'll keep helping you as long...as you don't mind. I'm having fun."

Listing to her father Katie gives a nervous laugh. His words were easily said, and she new they Agency had been defeated many times before but they always came back. It was an uncomfortable feeling.

I'm really not to scared, I just feel very uneasy that no matter what they are going to know who we are now.

Looking to her father, Rick, and than Jason Katie's eyes held a little worry. No matter what they did now the Agency would always know who they were. Not that they hid there ability from people, but they new how to make it so not the wrong people would know. But now that had changed, they were marked.

It's going to be ok J, as long as we stick together. We are stronger that way. I love you!

Looking back to Rick Katie nods, her eyes were opened more now and just tearing from the light but she could see. Her voice was still raspy but she could still talk, her head was spliting open but she could still think. If the Agency had been trying to take them out, they had failed and they wont continue to fail. Fear is what they wanted, and they couldn't give them that satisfaction.

"We need to figure out what they shot Jason with, and if they did the same to me what could happen. We need to be prepared and do all we can to build up an immunity and see why the did this to start with or what they hopped to achieve."

Sapphire can feel her lips curl up at Gage's comment. After a few moments her cheeks started to hurt but she just couldn't stop smiling. She was so happy that Gage liked the tree, and it came out even better than she had planned.

Holding her glass Sapphire comes up next to Gage slipping her hand into his once again. Why did that so often with Gage she wasnt sure, but it felt nice, and she liked it. She only hoped That Gage didn't mind ether.

"You really do a good job. I think this is one of the best looking tree's I have seen in a while. I think you have a talent for art."

Giving Gage a sidelong glance the smile was still on Sapphire's lips. His earlyer comment hadnt gone unnoticed, but she didnt want to make a big deal out of it eather and embarass him. So she would leave her words simple but with just as much meaning.

"Thanks by the way."

Demonstration

Jason stares at their hands and swallows hard before looking back to Rick. "Was this something the Agency did on purpose? To mark us?"

"Well..." Rick thinks about it. "I guess I can't say no, but I have a few other theories. We can't be sure though until we can try something out and that can't happen until your strength is back. So for now, I don't want you to worry about it." He turns to Katie. "Or you."

Easier said than done. I don't like this one bit. First we almost die, now we've been branded. I don't like it at all.

Jeff gives Katie's arm a pat. "It'll be okay," he assures. "I'm sure you will figure this out. If it's the Agency's doing then you've nothing to worry because we've beaten them multiple times. And if it's not... you'll figure that out then too."


Gage's mouth curls up again. "Nobody has all the answers. But I bet you're wrong about your brother. He thinks pretty highly of you."

He takes another sip of eggnog, savoring the new flavor. It was so rich, but he wanted to finish what he had. Turning around, he wanders a couple feet and leans on the doorway, looking into the little living room. It still glowed blue from the tree. His eyes take it in, studying the details and seeming to get lost in thought for the longest time. "You were right," he finally comments quietly. He turns his head to see the lights reflecting in Sapphire's eyes and making her features soft in the glow. "It's pretty."


Sparky smiles and grabs two leadropes off a nearby hook. "Sure. Just stick close - they all want to come in at the same time."

Guiding Faith back out of the barn, he leads with confidence, quite the opposite of the blundering idiot he'd made of himself earlier. Arriving at the pasture, he takes hold of the first two horses at the gate and lets only them out, clipping the leadropes to their halters.

Pausing, he hands Faith one of the ropes. "Put one hand here..." He places her hand close to the halter. "And loop up the excess rope in your other hand like so." Taking her other hand, he loops the rope and curls her fingers around it. "That way if he pulls too much, you can let go and step back with one hand, but still have the rope."

Walking side by side, Sparky keeps a close eye on her and the gentle horse to make sure she was doing alright. Once they're back in the barn, he puts his own horse away then helps Faith with hers, showing her where the stall was. Standing behind her, he reaches over her shoulders to demonstrate how to unbuckle the halter and let it slide off the horse's face. Once free, the gelding turns to the hay that someone had left for his supper.

When the stall door is shut once more, Sparky gives Faith a smile. "It's that easy. We got about fifteen more out there. You wanna have a second round?"

Soft

Hearing that Gage liked his eggnog Sapphire's smile grew. She was happy he liked it, and his first experience was a good one.

Seeing Gage reach out for her, Sapphire was confused but as he whips the remaining trace of the drink from her lip and see the grin on his face she can't help but laugh.

"Hey, maybe I was saving that for later?"

Sapphire's eyes sparkle as she again laughs at her own humor. Hopping Gage would understand she was joking, and wouldn't think she was mad with him.

Thinking for a long moment about Gage's question Sapphire takes another sip of her Eggnog just leaning against the counter. A thoughtful look on her face proved that she was thinking very hard and just might be stumped on the question Gage asked.

"You know, to be honest I have no idea why. I think its because its looked at as a holiday drink for one reason or another."

Sapphire laughs again.

"Even I don't have all the answers. If you ask my brother he'd say more often than not I don't."

Squinting to look at Jason and Rick Katie was just as confused as Jason. She didnt understand what Rick was getting at or why he wouldn't tell them ether. Kaite's mind was still trying to wake up and now Rick just seemed like he was going in circles.

Something just dosnt feel right J.

Squinting her eyes to see Jason's hand her own eyes widen just a little and than she squints them as her eyes still get use to the light.

I..don't understand what happened to you hand?

Looking at her own hand Katie study the pattern for a long moment. Not understanding what this meant or why it was even there. She could feel her heart rate speed up a little bit from the unknown of what happened. Looking up and back to Jason Katie was able to open her eyes just a little bit more.

I...don't know Jason but I think the Agency just branded us. It was your emotions, but they are the ones who forced it to happen. You didn't have any control over it. You dont have to be scared J...I'm here with you. We will get through this together ok?

Following Sparky inside Faith is taken in by the sights. She had seen a barn before just never one this big lined with horses. It was amazing to see such wonderful animals up close.

Finding a spot to sit on a bale of hay a ways away from where Sparky was throwing the other bales Faith listens intently to him. Hearing about the horses and how they took care of them was very interesting to Faith. Every word was fascinating that he spoke and his voice was so soft.

Once Sparky comes down again Faith stands and gives a smile. Hearing his comment about liking the small and just being in the barn Faith takes in a deep breath. One might of thought from first glance a place like this would not be for her, but once getting to know her a person would be surprised.

"I think I kind of like it too. My dad use to raise bulls, and they dont smell to differnt, its kind of reminds me of him well what I can remember anyways."

Seeing the movement out of the side of her eye Faith moves over to the stall and squats just a little. Reaching her hand out to let the mare sniff it before scratching her chin, and the side of her face.

"Her nose is so soft it tickles."

Hearing another voice call to Sparky Faith looks up and follows where it comes from. Seeing Clint she gives a little smile before continuing to pet the mare. She didn't want to put into anyone elses conversations or be in the way though so far it hadn't seemed like she was.

Hearing Sparky's offer to follow him Faith stands brushing her hand off and thinking for a moment.

"Can I help you bring them in?"

If you like

Gage looks at his glass skeptically for a moment, raising it close to his face to smell the drink that was new to him. Seeing Sapphire taking a sip, he dares to do the same. The thickness and richness surprise him and he lifts his eyebrows, smacking his lips a little as he savors the flavor.

"That's pretty good. I... think I like it." A grin appears as he sees Sapphire's mustache. Reaching out with his thumb, he wipes it from her upper lip. "Why don't they have it year 'round?"


"Mmm... I'll be staying as long as it takes to know you're gonna be okay." Jeff winks at Katie. "I'll be around for a bit. They got a nice room here with a cot that suits me just fine."

Jason turns his head to try and see Katie, just trying to figure everything out. He still felt pretty tired, but most of his emotions were somewhere near confusion and frustration than anything else.

Rick moves about, making sure they're comfortable and helping both of them to the point where eventually they can sit up and talk a little easier. For the first time, Jason realizes that not only is his own hand bandaged, but Katie's opposite hand is bandaged as well. "Rick... we both hurt our hands?"

Rick nods and wanders slowly between the beds. He exchanges a look with Jeff, who knew about the strange injuries. "Yes... yes you did."

Something seems odd... I don't know why he won't just tell us what happened.
"Care to explain?"

Rick takes a deep breath, setting his hands in the pockets of his lab coat. "Well... it's kind of hard to explain. Maybe you know more than I do."

"I don't understand."

"Neither do I." Rick sits down on the edge of Jason's bed and takes the injured hand. Unwrapping the bandage, he then removes the gauze slowly. The burn was healing - it had been under his attention for over a week. But it was a bad enough burn that it would no doubt scar.

It still hurt a bit, and Jason spreads his fingers, bringing his hand back to stare at his palm.
What on earth... it's... I don't....
He looks up and turns his head to see Katie. She was still a bit blurry, but he finds her eyes then slowly reveals his palm. The spiral pattern was very clearly marked.

Before anyone can ask questions, Rick removes Katie's bandage as well. It was just as far along with healing, though he knew it was still pretty tender, so he's gentle and slow. But when he turns it over for Katie to see, it shows that it's a mirrored pattern, exactly the same as Jason's.

Jason's eyes widen a little.
How...

Rick clears his throat. "If you're looking for answers, I don't have them. The best I can come up with is that your emotions, Jason, were funneled to Katie at such a rate and with such force that it burned both of you. And the pattern... your guess is as good as mine."

What happened, Katie? I don't understand. I did this? But why? How did it form such a precise pattern? It's... scary.


Sparky chuckles. "Yeah... once you're around horses a few years, you kinda get used to these things. Most importantly is that the horses respect their handlers. After that, it's not so tough."

For a moment, he just looks at Faith, finally daring enough to really take in her features and study her face.

"Come on inside." Motioning for her to follow him, he continues leading the way into the barn. He points out a few of the horses, and introduces her to a few of he other guys. At one point, he has to climb up into the hayloft but he keeps up the small talk, speaking loudly so Faith can hear him down below.

"...so they get enough exercise during the day, then some of 'em we bring in again at night..." A hay bale comes flying down from the loft, landing with a thud a safe distance from Faith. Little bits of alfalfa scatter across the floor. "...'course when there's bad weather, we bring all of them in. Most of the stalls get filled up. Right now we've got a few more horses than we need, but Mick's been working training them to sell. Or should I say, I have the last week or so." Another bale comes down.

It only takes a few minutes for twenty bales to come down and Sparky descends the ladder. Adjusting his cowboy hat, he sets to work stacking the bales, easily throwing them up one on top of the other arranging them with skill. "Some days though, all we got time to do is clean stalls. It's worth it in the end though. Some people can't stand the work, smells or hassles but..."

Sparky pauses, setting his hands on his hips, breathing a little heavily from the work. "...I like it."

A little gray mare sticks her head over her stall door and smells the air in Faith's direction. Sparky grins. "And this little girl here..." He moves over to scratch the mare's cheek lovingly. "She's one of the sweetest one's we've got. She learns quick and she's patient." Reaching in his pocket, he pulls out half a carrot he'd been saving and lets the mare crunch happily on it.

"Sparky, you wanna finish before or after supper tonight?" Clint was done in the shop for the day and had started helping out in the barn.

"Uh... doesn't matter. It's supposed to be pretty cold after dark tonight though, so lets plan on trying to get it done before supper."

"Alright. Oh, and Luke wondered about the south pasture. Fence is down again."

"I'll get Dan on it tomorrow." Sparky heaves a sigh as he sets his hands on his hips and looks around the barn. He glances back to Faith, hoping he wasn't making her feel in the way. For the last week, he'd been the one the hands had come to for direction, so it got a little busy around chore time. "I gotta bring in a few of the horses now. You can keep tagging along if you want."

Saved

"Well, the kind I have is not spiked. But its still really good. Come on lets try some."

Taking Gage's hand Sapphire cross the living room floor and enters the kitchen. Pulling two glass from the cupboard and placing them in the counter. Moving to the side she opens the fridge and pulls out the carton of eggnog.

"I tried making this homemade once. It...didn't turn out to well. Now I stick with just buying it."

Sapphire gives a laugh and a smile as she pours the eggnog into the cups. Than taking a bottle cinnamon she sprinkles just a little on top.

Holding the glass out to Gage Sapphire smiles. Taking a sip of her own she closes her eyes for a moment before opening them again and pulling the glass from her mouth. On her upper lip is a white mustache of eggnog.

"I wish they sold this all year around."

Trying to give a small smile it hurt to much to hold it Katie gently takes her dad's hand with her good hand.

"I'm sorry I scared you. Its good to see you again though. How long will you be staying?"

Katie hoped he would be staying for a little while so when she was able to be up and moving around maybe she could show her around a little bit. It would be nice to introduce her to Thirteen and Ryder as well.

Walking with Sparky Faith was quiet taking in the sights of the ranch. It seemed nice here, and very peaceful. It was everything Annie had described, and even a little more.

What happens in the barn happens fast and Faith dosnt have time to react herself. The horse was coming right for her. But feeling the jerk from Sparky and than seeing him grab the horse by the rope.

Faith cant help but just stair at Sparky. Maybe he wasnt so clumsy after all. The way he handled the horse was fascinating to Faith. She couldnt help but watch a smile on her face. Sparky had an air about him that Faith could already see and almost feel. He was farm, yet gentil and well respected.

Giving a little laugh and nodding to Sparky Faith brush herself off a little. She was thankful for his concern.

"Yes, I'm ok, thank you. You handled that horse really well. Than again I guess that happens when you around them all the time."

Flashing a smile Faith push a lose strand of hair behind her ear to get it out of her face as she looked up at Sparky.

As Annie listens to Jim talk she could feel a sorrow that grew inside of her for her twin. Mick had been doing so well and to just see him fall again hurt. So much piled up at once, even the strongest of people could only take so much.

"How is Rosetta holding up?"

Continuing to listen Annie gives a nod here and there letting Jim know she was still listing. Hearing about her nephew hurt even more. To see someone so young start down the wrong path already.

"Sparky has always been the stable one huh? Being able to keep things together while everything was falling apart. I guess thats why we always considered him the leader."

Though everything was crazy right now and alot had gone wrong Annie was still glad she had picked now to come. If more than anything her family needed her around too. Not to mention even to her this was home as well. She had missed everyone here.

Hearing about Clint and Wendy Annie's face lights up. In one of the few emails she had gotten she rememebered being told she was a great aunt.

"Oh I cant wait to see the little one. Its good to know that Clint and Wendy are doing well. They always looked so cute together, I bet they look even better with the baby by there side."

Runaway

Jim watches Sparky and Faith leave, and once he's alone with Annie, he gestures for her to take a seat. Sighing deeply, he tries to figure out what words to choose. But he knew better than to beat around the bush with Annie too. "Mick's back at the McClain Ranch."

He looks at Annie's eyes, his grim expression proof that he wasn't kidding. "A while back, Jade showed up here... I think she's had some trouble at home, and last I knew, she was going to try and stay here instead of going off to the school that her mother and grandmother wanted. Mick was okay at that point, but then Jade got a call that Dylan had gone missing. Jill wanted Mick out of it, but when he found out, he flipped."

Jim shrugs lamely. "He got upset when neither Jill nor the police would let him be involved - he believed the Agency was the culprit for the whole thing, and... so... he hit the bottle. Came home drunk - I wasn't involved, but I guess Sparky found him, brought him home and the thanks he got was a punch in the mouth. After that, Mick seemed to get a handle on himself, though he started trying to juggle stuff here, his wanting to find Dylan and then on top of all that, Jade's got herself one of the newer farm hands here and Mick doesn't approve. Add all that up and... kaplooy."

Leaning back in the chair, Jim tries to sort it all out without drawing it out. The Elite wound up finding Dylan doped up with a couple other druggies - looked like he'd simply run off and hadn't been abducted by the Agency or anything. Mick found out and had the team take him to the McClain's. At the same time, apparently he admitted to Rosetta that after his one binge, alcohol had taken hold again. It all happened in about a week's time, but surprisingly, that's all it took for him to admit he needed help. So... all that to conclude with Dylan and Mick are both at the McClain Ranch. Dylan for drugs, Mick for alcohol. They've been there about a week and a half now. We've gotten a couple calls from Brenda, who has given Rosetta some encouragement that Mick is doing well. Dylan is coming down off the drugs and it sounds like the worst might be over, but he's got an attitude problem still. And here...."

He takes another deep breath. "Jade's still here for now. She and Dan are an item - I don't know if it'll last after Mick gets back, but we'll see. And Rosetta... is hanging in there. Becky and I took care of BJ for a while, but he's back with Rosetta now."

Thinking a moment, Jim glances to the window. "And I gotta tell you... I give credit to one man for holding everything together around here, and that's Sparky. He's helped Rosetta out a ton, he's taken charge of areas Mick was maintaining and he's been managing the barn and all the work. Some of that Rosetta would normally pick up, but Sparky hasn't wanted to burden her any more than necessary so he's really bent over backwards to keep things running. Hence my comment about it having been a rough couple weeks. He's been handling it okay, but his mind has been wandering a bit. And that... is that."

He stops, then thinks of something else. "Oh yeah... and I don't know if you got word that Wes is being deployed in a few weeks. He's been called back in for duty." A wry grin escapes. "When it rains, it pours. But we've had our good, too. Clint and Wendy have pulled through and are doing really well handling their new family. BJ's shooting up like a weed. Just been a lot to handle lately."


Sparky walks outside with Faith and chuckles. "If you stick around long enough, don't worry, you'll be put to work. But we're not slave-drivers. Tonight you're a guest of Annie so you can relax."

Approaching the barn, a ruckus can be heard down one end, and suddenly Remington appears with a broken rope hanging from his halter. Bolting through the barn, his goal is the outdoors, no matter what was in his way.

Seeing the powerful horse coming towards them, Sparky doesn't think before acting. Taking Faith by the arms, he spins her around and pushes her out of harm's way before whirling back around just as Remington passes. Reflexes kick in and Sparky aims for the flying rope. Planting his heels, there's no way he can outpower the horse, but he gives just enough of a jerk for Remington's head to snap back. The horse skids to a stop, snorting and breathing heavily.

Sparky glares at the animal before looking down at the rope burn on his palm. "I will be so glad when your master is home," he growls.

Remington shakes his head and perks his ears forward as if he were as innocent as anything.

"Yeah, sure... like you didn't do anything wrong. What do you think this is?" Sparky holds up the frayed end of the rope. "I take it it broke itself."

Remington snorts again and ambles a step closer to Sparky, putting his head down to but his arm. Sparky smirks and shakes his head. "Ya big brute. Look what you did to my hand." Sighing, he coils up the rope, looking into the barn. "Whoever lost their horse, get out here and take care of him!"

One of the hands comes jogging out with an apology before retrieving the horse and leading him back inside. Sparky shakes his head, then remembers Faith. Turning back around, his eyes are a little wide. "Sorry about that. You okay?"


"Me?" Jeff laughs at Katie's question. "You're the one who's been asleep for a week and a half, not me. I think you need to worry about how you are instead."

He smiles and squeezes her hand. "I'm better now that you're awake. You gotta cut out scaring your dad like this."


"Eggnog..." Gage thinks then shakes his head. "Some of the guys used to get it but they'd spike it with who knows what. They never offered me any so I never drank any."

He looks to the kitchen with curiosity. "If you say it's good though... I'm willing to try it."

Show me

Faith gives a smile to Jim as her cheeks turn a little red. Having the attchen on her was always a strange feeling as she was the quiet one in a family of four.

"Its very pretty there. I was lucky to have had parents who when over there themselves for missionary work and feel in love with it and never left."

Small talk continued and Annie was happy that her family took well to Faith. Not that she thought they wouldn't but sometimes its was just hard bringing a new person into the picture. It was good that Faith seemed to be taking to this place as well. Being somewhere new could be scary but Faith seemed to have no problem with it other than her shy nature.

Hearing that Jade was here makes Annie's heart jump. It would be nice to see her for the holiday, but than seeing the look on Jim and Sparky's face her excitement soon fades. Something was wrong she could feel it.

Looking to Jim worry shown in Annie's eyes. How much had she missed while she was gone. Looking to Faith and giving a nod Annie smiles.

"You can go with him if you want Faith. He's a good guy."

Looking to Jim, than Sparky and than Annie Faith could see that this was a family matter that needed to be talked about. She didnt want to be in the way or impose on that one bit. Sparky seemed nice from what little he has said, only a bit clumsy.

"Sure, I'd love to have a look around and see where everything is."

Walking twords the door with Sparky Faith gives him a smile as her eyes sparkle just a little.

"I'll even help you work if you show me what to do. If I am going to be stay for a while, I'd rather earn my keep than just take your hospitality for free."

Sheepish

"Ahh, Thailand." Jim smiles. "I wondered where that pretty accent came from." He looks back to his sister. "Glad you both could come."

Sparky continues wiping the floor, his ears tuned into the conversation, though he didn't participate.

After a few minutes of light smalltalk about the mission field in Thailand, Jim glances down to the floor where Sparky still was. "Sparky...." No response. "Brother...." Sparky still didn't hear. "Tyler!"

Sparky blinks and looks up at him. "What?!"

Jim smirks at him. "You've cleaned that spot five times now."

Sparky looks down at the very clean spot on the floor. "Oh." Clearing his throat, he stands up, going back to the kitchen to rinse out the towel.

Jim rolls his eyes and finishes the rest of his own coffee, throwing a wink at Annie. "Sparky's got a lot on his mind. It's.... been a rough couple of weeks."

"I'm heading out to the barn," Sparky interrupts, grabbing his jacket off the back of his chair as he returns. He gives Annie's shoulder a pat. "Good to have you back. If I don't see you before, I'll see you at supper. Be sure you look around for Jade - she's here somewhere."

Jim lifts his eyebrows and gives his head a little shake. Sparky's own face shows surprise then he winces a little. "Oh yeah." Annie didn't know Jade was there or that Mick was gone. "Um..."

Jim looks to Annie with seriousness. "I need to talk to you. It's about Mick." He glances to Faith then back to his sister. "Maybe Faith would like Sparky to show her around while we talk?"

Sparky's just straightening the collar on his jacket and he stops."Uh... yeah... yeah, sure." He dares to look to Faith, trying to get past his embarrassment over the whole mess he'd made with a sheepish smile. "I'd be happy to, if you don't mind me working along the way. I promise not to knock you into a haystack or anything."

Something New

Giving a small laugh Faith looks to Jim and gives a soft shy smile. At least Jim was trying to have a conversation with her. From the way Annie talked about her family Faith felt like she already new them anyways. A thick Thia accent comes out with her as she spoke, but her English was amazing.

"I don't think there is such thing as having to much fun."

Rolling her eyes at her brothers refuse for help or even to put something cold on his head. Watching her brother move about the kitchen and wet the cloth to clean up the rest of the mess. Under her breath mumbaling only loud enough so Sparky could hear her.

"I dont think it was me who shook you up."

Giving a small grin Annie joins Faith at the table where Jeff, and Sparky had been. Folding her hands on the table.

Thinking for a long moment about his question it was almost like she wouldnt answer but finally she did.

"Probley for a while now, a month or three, maybe longer. The mission trip we were on in
Thailand which is where Faith is from I might add is done. Not sure when the next one will start up until we get the call."

Just sitting quietly at the table Faith just takes in everything around her, listing to what was spoken. Not being able to help her eyes from roaming to Sparky every no and than admiring his features, and his good looks. Only to look away quickly when he looked up at her.

Putting the tree together with Gage was loads of fun. It reminded her of when she was little and Scott would help her with the tree. He use to love it so much, now having someone else to help once again was nice. Seeing the smile on his face was nice, and the laughs that came from his lips seemed to fill Sapphire's heart.

Gage was changing everyday, becoming more independent and learning more things about the world around him. Sapphire was happy to be part of that.

Standing back with Gage Sapphire sets her hands on her hips and looks at the tree. It was one of the best looking trees she had ever seen. It almost seemed so perfect. The way the lights lit up the branches, and reflected off the ornaments.

"Now this has to be one of the best looking trees I ever saw. You did a great job Gage, it looks so pretty."

Turning a little to look at him Sapphire's eyes sparkle just a little as the light from the tree bounces off them. She really was enjoying her time spent with Gage. It was nice to have someone she felt comfortable around.

"I got something I wanted you to try. Its called Eggnog and it only comes around this season. Have you ever had it?"

Opening her eyes just a little to try and see Jeff Katie could only get them to go so far before having to shut them again. But a small smile forms on her face, she was happy he was there.

In a horse whisper Katie manages to get a few words out to try and carry on a conversation with her father.

"Hey Dad, How are you feeling?"

Fun

Jim, tries hard not to laugh at the whole thing, and after Faith sits down, he takes his seat again. Giving her another smile, he offers conversation. "As you can see, we have a lot of fun around here." He chuckles. "Too much sometimes."


Sparky dumps his handful of coffee soaked ceramic pieces into the garbage then goes to the sink to wash his hands. Having Annie come in after him, he rolls his eyes. "I'm fine," he states flatly. Eying the bag of frozen peas, he smirks. "I am so not putting that on my head."

Grabbing a dish towel and getting it wet with a little soap, he rings it out. "My head is fine, but the floor needs to be cleaned. I was really looking forward to that coffee too." Taking his wet fingers, he flicks drops of water in Annie's direction, trying to overcome his embarrassment with teasing her. "You see what happens when you get me all shook up?"

Bravely heading back into the dining area, cloth in hand, he aims for the table again. Getting on his hands and knees, his eyes stay glued to his task. The heat was still in his face and he could kick himself. But he knew that stewing over the whole thing would do no good. He was sure he must have looked pretty ridiculous to everyone else, so if they thought it was funny, he needed to find the humor in it too.

Wiping up any leftover coffee and collecting a few more small pieces of the broken mug, only a glance or two are stolen in Faith's direction. His words though are aimed at Annie. "So, Miss Surprise, how long are you and your friend planning to stay?"


Rick purses his lips at Katie's question. "Well... I think you just took the brunt of Jason's emotions, that's what happened. Your hand will be fine - its healing nicely." He avoids the subject for now... he didn't want to overload them so soon after waking up. Offering a smile, he stands and goes back to the counter to get some mild pain medication prepared for them both. Seeing Jeff in the doorway, he gives a little nod.

Jeff wanders in slowly, realizing that Katie had not seen him yet. Easing down in the chair, he reaches over to take her unbandaged hand. "Hey, kiddo," he greets softly.


Gage really wanted to know what all it was that Sapphire had put in the fridge, but he withholds his questions for now. Seeing her take the lights and give directions, he grins. "Okay. I think I can handle that."

Going to the tree, he helps with the lights, stringing them through the branches and smiling when something goofy would happen with the string getting stuck on a limb or the tree tilting this way and that. The balls were fun to put on, and Gage's true nature shown through as he stood back and had to make sure that all of the ornaments were completely balanced in position - nothing could be out of place or crooked.

Placing the star on top as the final step, he looks at the decoration as a whole, so quite for such a long time, almost as if he'd fallen into his own little world again. But without warning, he goes and pulls the shade on the window, then turns the lights off in the room. The result was a gorgeous little tree, shining with his blue lights in the corner. Folding his arms, a new smile emerges. "That was fun." He'd never made anything pretty just to be pretty before... he wouldn't have thought it would make himself feel that good.

You never told me...

With the help of Rick Katie sits up a little. Trying to open her eyes the light was so bright it hurt.

Who every though the light could hurt this much.

Taking a sip of the cool water Katie gives a could her stomach seeming to do flip flops as the water its it. Not actully use to having anything in it again that was pretty normal.

I am going to muster all the strength I got to slap you if you keep saying your sorry over this. Its not like you could help it.

Katie sends her warm emotions Jason's way to let him know she wasnt upset and she didn't blame him. This was just something else that happened, like being on a mission and getting shot. No one wanted it to happen or had control over it.

Trying to open her eyes again Katie squints up at Rick, quiet for a moment letting the saliva in her mouth work Kaite finally opens her mouth to let the words come out, but only a horse whisper it was formed.

"My...throat, its really hard to talk, my head dosnt feel the greatest ether."

Katie wingles the fingers on her hand now realizing it stung pretty bad. She count remember hurting her hand at all.

"Hand, it hurts...what...happened?"

Giving a smile and entering the house Sapphire makes her way to the kitchen. Starting to take things out of the bags and put them into the fridge.

"Well I am happy you didnt start. I really wanted to help you."

Finishing up in the kitchen Sapphire takes her jacket and puts it over one of the chairs. Making her way over to Gage and holding up the blue lights.

"First we want to put the lights on first. I'll stand on one side if you like, and you can stand on the other. We can just go back and forth till its all covered, than we put on the balls we got and the little snowmen and than last we put the star on the top of the tree."

Giving a sly smile to her brother Annie was happy to see him suprised. Its what she had wanted, and she was glad it was received well.

"Well if I had told you I was coming than it wouldn't have been a Christmas surprised."

Reaching out and putting her brother into a strong hug Annie really had missed her family while she was away and couldnt be more than happy to be back.

"Give you a heart attack? Your to suborn for that."

Pulling away and seeing Jim looking at her friend Annie felt silly for a moment in the excitment forgetting she had come alone. Stepping to the side to have a clear path for Jim and Sparky Annie smiles.

"Jim, Sparky this is Faith Reynolds, Faith this is my brother Jim and Sparky."

Giving a little wave and a shy smile Faith words come out soft.

"Nice to meet you both."

The events that happen next cause Faith and Annie's eyes to go wide. Sparky fumbling, the glass breaking, Jim's teasing. It was very easy to see Sparky was flustered.

Bringing a hand to her mouth Faith couldn't help the small chuckle that escaped softly. She couldn't help but feel sorry for Annie's brother and could feel her own heat coming to her face. But here gave a sparkle as she watched Sparky as he headed to the kitchen.

"You told me you had brothers but you never told me that one of the was a totally good looking."

Trying her best not to laugh at her brother Annie steps forward, but before she can say anything Sparky was already making his retreat. She couldnt help but feel bad for her brother. It wasnt often he got flustered but knowing her brother so well Annie could see the look in his eye, and it was cute but surprised her at the same time.

Hearing Faith's comment to her Annie just looks at her for a moment and blinks. It seemed they were both attracted to each other right away.

"Well...I think all my brothers are good looking, I just didnt think about saying anything."

Shaking her head and finally letting her laugh escape Annie looks to Faith again.

"Make yourself comfortable I promise no one will bite. I'm going to go make sure Sparky is ok. I'll be back."

As Annie walks away Faith makes her way over to the table setting her bag down and pulling out a chair. Sitting down she keeps her hands in her lap just looking around the dinning hall. It was obvious she was a little nervous, and felt awkward being here not really knowing anyone. Faith new she would be ok in a day or two after she had been here a while just right now it was some place new.

Following her brother into the kitchen Annie goes to the fridge and grabs a bag of peas for Sparky's head.

"You took quite a bump there, are you ok Sparky?"

Mortified

As Rick waits quietly, he's surprised, seeing movement from Katie. It really had worked to have Jason try and wake her up. Moving over to her side, he watches her closely, letting her wake up slowly.

It's okay, just take it slow... we've been here a while. I can't see much right now, so we'll make a nice pair.
"Rick... she wants some water."

Rick nods and leaves to bring back a small paper cup with water. Sitting down on the edge of Katie's bed, he lifts her head a little and helps her take a drink. "Easy does it, Hero."

Jason tries to open his eyes again, still having difficulty as he blinks in the lights that just seemed way too bright.
I'm sorry, Katie... I don't know what happened... It's all foggy... something happened and I just lost complete control.

Rick gives Katie's arm a gentle pat before taking her vitals. "How do you feel? Anything especially uncomfortable or hurting?"

Jeff leans on the open doorway, having just been gone for a short walk. His hands in his pockets he just watches, not wanting to get in the way. But relief was spreading over him, just seeing that his daughter was awake... finally awake.


Hearing someone at the door, Gage gets up again, wandering across the floor in his bare feet. He was a little drowsy, but having someone come was a nice distraction.

Opening all the locks and finally looking out, he sees Sapphire and smiles. He had known she'd come sometime in the next few days, but hadn't known when. "Hey." He opens the door wider so she can come in, eying her bags curiously. "I... was gonna start on the tree but..." He rubs the back of his neck and looks over to the bare tree. "I didn't know where to start."


Jim sees Annie coming, but says nothing to Sparky, barely letting a smile show. Once spoken to, Sparky gives a jump and turns his head in time to see Annie and receive the kiss on the cheek and a hug. "Annie!" He hugs her arms around him. "What on earth... I didn't know you were coming!"

The excitement in his voice was one of a brother who had missed seeing his sister around. Having a familiar face show up unexpectedly was a nice addition to the dismal day. Scooting around in his chair a little, he looks up at her with a wide smile. "You're looking as beautiful as ever. You should know better than to scare an old man like that though." He gives her a teasing backhanded whack to the arm. "You coulda given me a heart attack then there'd be no one to pick on you

Jim, seeing that Annie had the company of another woman, stands up from the table, offering her a welcoming smile and nod.

Sparky sees Jim stand and is confused for a moment. "What..." Tilting his head forward, he looks around Annie and realizes there was someone else there. Catching sight of the attractive woman, he falters for a moment - he probably wouldn't have been quite so affectionate with his sister, had he known a stranger was present.

Remembering his manners, he stands, but Annie hadn't moved back yet, so there wasn't very much room. Teetering as his foot catches the leg of the chair, he puts a hand down fast on the table to catch himself. Unfortunately, he still had his eyes on the woman and his hand goes right where he'd put his coffee mug.

The mug is thrown off balance and goes sprawling, coffee spilling all over. Whirling around, Sparky tries to get a hold on the mug before it falls off the table, but it's slippery and hot. As he fumbles, it slides through his fingers spinning towards him like a torpedo. Still trying to catch it, it's just no use and it goes right off the edge for a long ride with gravity. Ceramic pieces shoot in all directions, clattering across the hard floor.

Jim grabs a fistful of napkins to try and help, but already Sparky is so flustered that he'd rather just be left to the mess. "No, no.... I got it, I'm fine, just..." He doesn't even finish his statement as he squats down to start picking up some of the sharp pieces of the broken mug. Muttering under his breath, he keeps his face down, extremely embarrassed.

Jim clears his throat, deciding it best just to stay out of Sparky's way, so he lifts his eyebrows and looks to Annie, then to her friend. "Welcome to the R/M Ranch..." He purses his lips, trying not to laugh. "My brother doesn't usually give quite this kind of greeting to our guests, but he hasn't seen any female outsiders in so long that it probably just threw him for a loop."

Mad at Jim's teasing, Sparky's head flies, up, but he'd forgotten that it was ducked under the table. Bam! The whole table shakes as his head hits the hard rim.

Jim's eyes widen, his silliness ceasing. "Oh, man, you okay?"

"No, I'm not okay," Sparky grumbles. Finally getting to his feet, his hands are full of dripping broken pieces. His glance catches the woman, his face growing even redder as he sees a set of beautifully soft eyes staring back at him. "Excuse me," is all he can manage before turning to walk to the kitchen to clean up.