Seaweed

*Katie giggles at she watches the boys.* "There is never a dull moment with them is there." *Katie puts her arms behind her and leans back.* "Ya know its strange. I havent known you guys for long and I feel so comfortable. The only other person I have attacked to gast was Jason. Everyone alse, I was so leery about. You guys are just so....care free. I love it." *Katie smiles and looks at Jen.* "Someday we are gonna walk again, than we can beat those three up ourselfs." *As Kyle comes back over and sits down next to him she laughs.* "One of these days Kyle Jen is gonna kick the crap out of you and I want to be there to watch." *Katie smiles and lets out a content sigh.* "So...did you get that seaweed monster out of your pant leg? Or is he still hiding?"

*Wes gets on his horse and smiles holding his hand out and sliding back so Cindy can get on infront of him.* "This horse. We ride together today."

Wet

Kyle cocks his head at Katie, the corner of his mouth turning up into a slight grin as she looks at him. He makes her break the gaze first, then sighs with content. “Yeah…it’s peaceful… I think it’s kinda like life though… you get storms, and the waves can be high…so high you can’t even see over them. But then one morning you wake up, and the water is like glass, with the sun reflecting off of it just right to bring warmth to every fiber of your being, reviving the soul and refreshing the spirit.”
He stops and just soaks in the moment before finally giving a short laugh. “Okay, I’m gonna have to do something about that seaweed.” He trudges back through the water and walks across the sand to deposit Katie gently on the blanket near Jen. He goes back over to the waters edge and starts to shake one of his legs, trying to get the stray seaweed out.
Mike and Phil burst out laughing at his antics and go to “help” him.

Jen watches wide-eyed as Mike and her other brother go to Kyle. She and Katie are just far enough away not to be able to hear what’s being said, but it doesn’t take long before Mike has Kyle by the feet, and Phil has his arms and head. Within two swings, Kyle is airborn, landing in deeper water with a huge splash.

Mike and Phil’s laughter rings out as Kyle comes up sputtering and spitting out lake water. Glaring at the other two he’s quick to exit the water and start after them. All three make a mad dash along the beach. Kyle’s wet clothes hold him back, though his quick legs get him almost within reach of his brother. Pulling off his sopping shirt as he runs, he flings it at Phil’s head.

Smacked in the back of the head with the wet shirt, Phil staggers just enough slow him down, though by now Kyle has given up and just stand, panting, and leaning over to try and catch his breath. Mike is already far ahead and skids to a stop, spinning around and still laughing. “Give up, Kyle?!”

Kyle waves him off. “For now…for now. One of these days, when you least expect it….” He lets his humorous threat linger and turns around to walk back to the girls. This time it’s him who receives the shirt to the back of his head, and he grimaces, simply slinging it over his shoulder.

Reaching the girls, Jen is in stitches. “Kyle..you look so….ridiculous!”

Kyle smirks and goes over to her, shaking out his wet hair on her.

“Oh, stop!” Jen shrieks, holding up her hands.

Kyle grins and flops down next to Katie, still trying to catch his breath. “I’m sorry you had to witness that. I’m sure such a horrific scene will traumatize you for weeks to come.”


Cindy finishes getting ready, and heads out to the barn. Arriving, she sees Wes ready to go. “Guess I’m the one who’s late today, huh? Which horse should I take today?”

It's Amazing

*Katie giggles as Kyle takes her to the water. Any other time a guy has picked her up she usaly would object but in this case she dident. It was one of her only ways around not to mention she felt comfortable leting Kyle do it. Katie reaches down to touch the water.* " It feels so nice. Back at my Aunts ranch she has a pond but...nothing like this. The water is clear and cool." *Katie's hand still runs through the water. Looking up at Kyle she smiles with her arm wraped around his neck. For a moment gazing into his eyes she gets lost. Relizing she quickly looks away out at the water harozen.* "Its amazing no matter how rough if gets, or dark it might look there is still a pritty,calm, and brightside that can make anyone feel good."

*Wes smiles and nods to Cindy.* "Sounds good to me. I'll be in the barn geting my horse ready. Just mean me out there when your ready." *Wes heads to the barn a smile on his face. He had already told Clint that the shop was all his for the day and if he wanted to close up early he could. It was such a nice day out he dident want to keep him inside, figureing he might want to do something with Wendy. Once geting to the barn he goes over to Saviour's stall.* "Well buddy, its time for you to strech your legs." *Taking him out Wes grabs his saddle and slings his pack with the blanket and food onto the horse as well. Today he was only going to need the one horse. Cindy was gonna ride with him.*

*Jamie smiles as Con leave. She sure did miss him while he was gone and was happy to have him back.*

friends

Kyle grins at Katie, cocking his head. “Jason, eh? Well…I’d like to hear about that sometime.” He sees that something isn’t quite right, and decides better of asking her about it now. But she certainly had piqued his interest. “As for now….we’re going to give you that sunshine you’ve been missing.” He goes to the back of the wheelchair and grabs hold. “Geronimo!” Finding the smoothest path, Kyle gives Katie a fast speed ride down to the little beach, stopping near Jen. “Ahhh…here we are.” He takes a deep breath. “Smell that salty air.”

Mike rolls his eyes. “First it was Lake Erie, now it’s the ocean. I’m still not convinced it was the map that had us going in the wrong direction.”

“He had us going towards Bedford,” Phil adds.

“Beauford,” Kyle corrects.

“I thought it was Hampton.”

“No, that was Hillside.

“But it was supposed to be east.”

“South.”

Jen groans and throws her hands up in the air. “We’re here, okay?!”

“Hmm?” Kyle chuckles, looking down on Katie. “Well, young lady, if I didn’t know any better, I’d say you need a pick-me-up. So, that said, I’m going to be the one to pick you up.”

Before any objection can be made, Kyle easily sweeps Katie up out of her wheelchair and into his arms. “If I’m not mistaken, someone wanted to get their feet wet.” He grins mischievously and heads for the water.

“Kyle!” Jen calls after him, noting he may be in bare feet, but he’s still fully clothed. “You dweeb!”

Kyle just ignores his sister and wades into the cool water just enough so Katie can’t get wet unless she wants to. “Ahhh…” He looks out over the small lake, the sun sparkling off the water. “Now that’s a sight.” Suddenly his eyes get wide. “But I think I shred of seaweed just went up my pantleg.”


Jason sits for several minutes at the mess hall table, his mind slowly becoming clearer as his headache and dizziness disperse. Finally looking up, he sees Clint is still standing there, his arms folded across his chest. “Sorry…”

Clint shrugs it off. “No worries, man. But you better start watching that. I had a friend like you…he didn’t take care of himself, and now he’s got diabetes really bad. I doubt you want that to happen.”

Jason scoffs a little, and buries his face. “Was that really Katie on the phone?”

“Yup.”

“Great.”

“Yeah, you did a good job with her.”

Jason rolls his eyes and leans back in his chair. “I did, didn’t I.”

“Why don’t you just go back?” Clint shakes his head. “You know it’s the right thing to do.”

“But what about Wyatt?”

“Forget about it. If you just throw your friendship with Katie down the garbage disposal, you’ll regret it the rest of your life.”

Jason sighs deeply. “Maybe you’re right…maybe I was stupid to leave.”

“Eh…you needed time to think. Can’t blame a guy for that. But quit moping. You’ve got answers staring you in the face.”

“That easy, huh?”

Clint grins a little. “Why not?”

Jason looks up at him for just a moment, changing the subject. "So when did we become friends anyway?"

"Beats me." Clint shrugs and aims for the door. "But I got work to do. Come get me when you're up to finishing our session."


Cindy laughs. “Oooh, lots of energy, huh? That could be dangerous.” She grins. “I would love to go for a ride with you. Just let me get my boots on.”


Con chuckles at Jamie’s punch to his arm. “Alright. I’ll catch you later, Jamie.” As he’s walking away, he calls back over his shoulder. “Need anything, you know my number.”

Smiles

*Katie sighs at Jason's attitude. She knows his sugar was low and he dident know what he was talking about but the word still stung.* "No problem Clint. Just keep an eye on him. If anything alse dosent seem right go to Angel at once than call me. I'll talk to ya again soon. Call anytime. Bye!" *As Katie buts her phone away she sighs again. Seeing Kyle coing over she smiles and starts to push herself half way.* "Hey you. Sorry about that. When I comes to Jason I have a gift and sometimes a curse. Maybe sometime when you have time you can hear about it." *Katie smiles up at Kyle.*

*Jamie smiles at Con.* "I'll see what I can do with Reese, but I know your needed here so its not a problem." *Jamie dosent addmit it but she really did want Con's help but she wasent going to push it.* "I'll be here tomarrow. Bright and early. A big all of sunshine." *Jamie giggles and throws a playing punch at Con.* "See ya tomarrow."

*Wes grins back at Cindy giving a small bow.* "Well my dear its a wonderful day out, and I am full of energy, I was wondering if a lovly lady as yourself would go for a horse ride with me and have a picnic lunch."

Reluctant Compliance

Con raises his eyebrows as Jamie mentions him helping out. “Ohhh, I get it,” he teases. “Now I know why you chose me to mention this to.” He shrugs. “If you can convince Reese to give me the time off, I might be able to come down and help out.” He offers only a wry grin at her statement of him being sweet, then shakes his head. “If you told me you were doing something exciting, I’d ask which town you were going to other than this one.” He sighs and looks to the door. “Guess I’ll head out myself. See you tomorrow, I suppose.”


Clint does as Katie tells him to, not really sure what’s going to happen.

Jason’s head still rests on his arms at the table, and his eyes are half-closed, but he raises his eyebrows at the familiar voice. “What the…” He finally brings the phone into focus, hearing Katie talking to him. He rolls his eyes, the sugar low affecting his mood. “Oh, great, now I’ve got two mothers. Jason do this, Jason do that…why can’t anyone just leave me alone?!”

Clint cringes. He knows that Jason isn’t acting himself, though he feels a bit sorry for Katie.

Jason retaliates against the instructions. “Yeah, well I do feel like crap, and no matter how much orange juice is pumped into me, I’m still gonna feel like crap. Ya wanna know why? Because I’m an idiot, that’s why! I haven’t done a dang thing right since the day I was born.”

Clint sighs in disgust. “Well then start by drinking the stupid juice before you say anything more you’ll regret.”

Growling a curse, Jason snatches up the juice and downs it quickly, letting the glass clank back down on the table. His head falls back to his arms, his voice muffled. “Just hang up the phone.”

Clint picks the phone back up, turning the speakerphone off. “Well he’s not happy, but he drank it. I’d give him about five minutes and he should start perking up again. Thanks, Katie.”


Jen settles down on the blanket on the small strip of sand along the lakeshore. Phil and Mike go to the edge of the water to see how cold it is, and Kyle heads slowly back to the truck, his hands in his pockets. He takes his time, seeing Katie still on the phone. Something was wrong somewhere…maybe it had to do with Wyatt. Or maybe the breakup was why she’d seemed upset the day before. At any rate, he hoped the phone call didn’t ruin her day. She’d been so excited.


Cindy hears the knock at the door and finishes putting up her hair in front of the mirror. “Just a minute,” she calls. The task done, she goes to the door, a smile spreading as she sees Wes. “Hey, Handsome. Can I help you?”

Please

*Jamie smiles at Con.* "Ya I could ask them. Maybe a certin someone standing with me right now might help out too. Its not hard to run a grill." *Jamie cant help but giggle at Con.* "Your a sweet guy yourself Con." *Looking down at her papers Jamie groans.* "Well I better get this stuff done before I head out. Not that I am doing anything exciting." *Jamie giggles again.*

*Katie listens to Clint coaking Jason as she watches the guys and Jen find a spot for the picnic. Katie hoped the would understand when she was done what had happend.* "Clint put the phone up to Jason's ear. Hold it for him...just put it up there and put me on speaker phone ok." *As Katie hears the click on the static in the background she know she is on speaker. In a very soft tone Katie speaks.* "Jason...listen to me J. Its Katie. You need to drink you OJ ok. Its important. I am sure your feeling like crap right now, and if you dont drink that OJ your just gonna feel worse. Please drink it for me." *Katie pauses for a moment.* "Clint hand Jason the OJ again." *As Katie waits she hopes Jason will drink it. If not Clint would have to go get Angel. But Katie wasent geting off the phone till she new he was ok.*

*Wes smiles as he breaths the fresh air. What a nice day out it was. Wes was happy for these days. No storms coming it. It was warm yelt not to hot. This was perfect riding and picnic weather. Not knowing where Cindy was at this point in time Wes walks to her bunk and Knocks on the door waiting.*

Can't

Con rolls his eyes at Jamie's mention of Jason. "Yeah. I don't know what his problem is. If it's something Wyatt said, I've never known Jase to back down like this before, so I don't know what it is. I have a feeling he was trying to resolve the whole mess by removing himself from it, but it just made things worse. Anyway..."
He listens to Jamie talk about her parents, and when she finally ends, he chuckles. "I bet you could find somebody to help you out down there if you want to give your parents a break. Ed's got some vacation time backed up, I know, and so does Gary. You might check with them - I know they like Mom and Pop's as well as I do." He smiles. "You're sweet to do something like this for your parents...they deserve it...always giving of themselves."


Kyle lifts an eyebrow, at Katie's odd behavior, but he respects her privacy and continues to help the other guys and Jen as they argue about where to go on the little beach.

Clint heads to the refrigerator as he talks. "Jason? That butthead is in the mess hall here ready to pass out." He grabs the orange juice carton and shakes it up as he walks to the cupboard for some sugar. "He and I were out back - he's been showing me a thing or two about defending myself, and his sugar crashed big time." Clint has to open several kitchen drawers before finding a spoon, fumbling just a little as he tries to hurry. He doesn't want to worry Katie, but he knows he needs to act fast. "Hasn't eaten all day. He's plum miserable, as I would be, so I'm assuming he just wasn't paying attention to himself."

Clint pours some juice and adds a teaspoon of sugar, stirring it up well. "I'd hand you over to him, but I seriously doubt he'll make much sense at this point." He knew the truth was that had Jason been lucid, he probably wouldn't have wanted to talk to Katie anyway, but Clint holds his tongue. He may have razzed Jason, but good sense told him not to say so much to Katie. He aims back for the other room, his jaw tight with concern at seeing Jason's weak form. If he couldn't get him to drink this juice, he'd would have to go get Angel. He tries to keep his conversation casual though, masking his fear. "I heard you were up and walking a bit - congratulations."

He nudges Jason's arm and holds out the juice to him, but Jason shakes his head, as he's to the point of not even thinking straight. Clint removes the phone from his mouth and speaks to Jason hoarsely. "Come on, Jason. Don't give me a bad time or I'm gonna force it down your throat."

Jason kind of knows what's going on, but his mind is in a fog. He knows he feels stupid for some reason, and he's pretty sure that he should be doing something different, but his stomach doesn't feel like taking on anything, so the thought of a glass of orange juice is simply nauseating.

"Jason!" Clint holds the phone out to the side, trying to avoid Katie hearing too much. He tries to rouse Jason again, but it's not working. "Good grief." He puts the phone back to his ear. "Katie, I can't get him to take any sugar. I'm gonna have to go get Angel."

Is he ok?

*Katie is alittle saprised Clint answers Jason phone.* "Hey Clint. Its going I guess. Where is Jason?" *Katie holds her hand up tp Phil telling him one moment.* "Is everything ok? I got one of my feelings something was wrong." *A worryed look pass through Katie's eyes. It wasent like Jason to let someone alse answer his phone. Katie mouths to Kyle.* "Sorry....I'll explain in a second."

*Jamie smiles up at Con.* "Ya I figured I should. I am alittle behind and If I dont get these papers to Reese monday he is gonna kill me." *Jamie finishes up what she was working on.* "I was having a hard time typing I was thinking about so much. I was thinking how it was good Katie made some new friend, but I still wish Jason would come back for her. Its just not fair ya know." *Jamie lets out a sigh.* "I was also thinking about doing something for my mom and dad. I havent in a long time but I just couldent think of what. I know since the opend "Mom and Pop's" they havent had much time away. I was thinking maybe I could run things for alittle bit for them, but there is no way I could do it alone. and its not like I could pick someone right off the street I'd have to know and trust them. Blah blah blah..." * Jamie gets a silly look on her face relizing she was babbling. She laughs.* "Sorry Con dident mean to get carryed away."

Answering

Con tries to work, but he just can't concentrate. Finally he finishes off his pop, throws his folder to the side of his desk and leaves his office. He doesn't want to go back to his apartment, but what else is there to do...
Ambling back out onto the floor, he spies Jamie at her desk and lifts an eyebrow. Walking over, he leans on the top of the cubicle. "Hey...didn't know you were here today."


As the guys get a couple blankets out of the truck, get Katie settled in her wheelchair, and do the same with Jen, Kyle suddenly notices Katie going for her phone. The look on her face was worried. He elbows Phil and nods to her. Phil goes over to her with concern, though doesn't want to interrupt a call. "Everything okay?"

"She mentioned Jason," Mike informs him quietly as he grabs a bag from the back seat.


The mess hall is deserted, and Clint deposits Jason into a chair at the table. Jason leans forward to rest his head on his arms, the world spinning as he fights not to pass out. Way to go, Jason. This isn't exactly the first time this has happened. When will you learn?

Clint turns to go to the kitchen, but hears Jason's phone go off on his belt. When Jason makes no move to answer it, Clint impulsively reaches out and flips it open. Katie's name appears. "Speak of the devil." Not caring about consequence, he answers the call a he walks to the kitchen. "Yo, Katie! This is Clint. How's it hangin'?"

Not now

*Jamie walks out of the break room and see Con.* "Hey Con!" *As Con keep walking Jamie shrugs figuring he was probley busy. She heads to her desk so many she can leave early today but he dident think would happen. With Katie in the hopetal her work was backed up.*

*As Wyatt's name is braught up Katie's face hangs alittle. She better let them know now so they dont keep bringing him up. Katie just wants to forget for now.* "His name is Wyatt, and you dont have to worry about him anymore. He broke up with me the other day." *Katie pasts a smile on her face the best she an thanful for Mike kind arm of friendship.* "Its ok though. I'll deal today I just want to have fun." *Katie looks at Kyle.* "Witch I am sure I will." *As they drive alittle farther they finally arrive. Katie stairs out the window in awww.* "Ohhhh...it looks so nice. Look at that water, and the flowers." *KAtie cant help but feel like alittle kid again finding something new. As Katie is out of the truck a wave hits her. Jason...his sugar was droping.* "Oh man...not now." *Katie pulls out her phone and dials Jason's number.* "Come on J, Answer you idot."

Reasoning

Con wanders down the hall, a can of pop in one hand, an open filing folder in the other. He sighs and closes it, tucking it under his arm as he heads for his office. He didn't normally work on Sunday afternoons unless he was called in, but there wasn't much else to do, and he wanted to keep his mind occupied. Jason hadn't called him back, and it worried him just a little. Maybe he'd been too harsh...
Con stops walking and rolls his eyes with a little groan. He'd walked all the way down the hall, having passed his office. Where was his mind? Turning around, he heads back the other direction.


As the crew gets out onto the road, Mike sees Katie out of the corner of his eye, his instincts kicking in. He recognizes that look. As casually as can be, he slings an arm back behind Katie to rest on the seat and shifts his weight a little closer, acting as though he simply wants to see out the windshield, though his slight movement forms a sheltered cove in the seat. "Phil, you just missed our turn!"

"Oops."

"See?!" Kyle slaps the map. "Told you, you shoulda listened to me."

Jen shakes her head and leans back in her seat, turning to see Katie. "It's not the greatest beach in the world, but for a lake, it's not bad. It's got a lot of sand."

"Rocks," Kyle intervenes.

"And sand!"

"More rocks than sand."

Phil looks in his rearview mirror. "It has both."

'There's a nice spot where we have picnics every once in a while," Jen continues. "And actually, the end of the lake where we go, not to many people venture there, so it's usually pretty quiet."

"Which is good, when we have Kyle with us," Mike quips. "We don't like scaring other people away."

"Ah, but Katie doesn't get scared!" Kyle exclaims. "She even gave me her phone number!"

Phil smirks at him. "Better not tell Jason."

"Not Jason," Mike corrects. "It's Wesley."

Kyle shakes his head. "Will."

"Walter."

"Wayne."

"What?"

Mike stops at Kyle's question. "Huh?"

Jen slaps a hand to her forehead. "It's going to be a long day." She shakes her head at Katie. "But I promise no one will let you drown. Kyle's trained as a lifeguard."


"Alright, so when someone comes at you like this, counter by taking there arm, bend down low, and shift your weight." In one movement, Jason kneels down, tossing Clint over his shoulder. Austin was being insistent about Clint getting some intensive training as long as he had the chance, so this afternoon came another round. He was learning quickly and his body mass was making Jason's job just a little difficult.

Clint catches his breath and rolls over to get up. "Like this?" He mimics Jason, winding up doing a pretty good job of getting Jason to do a summersault over his shoulders.

Jason is quick to get up. "Exactly." He takes a deep breath, feeling just a little dizzy. He was tired this afternoon, and working up a sweat like this wasn't helping any.

The two continue their sparring session, Jason guiding Clint as much as he can.

Clint takes a punch to the gut.

"Watch that move," Jason reminds. "You gotta watch my whole body." He wipes some sweat from his brow, feeling a little light headed.

"So when you going back?" Clint takes a shot at Jason's ribs and succeeds.

Jason winces just a little. "Good one. And I don't know. Eventually."

"Still scared, huh?"

"No."

"Ah." Clint spins around to try and take Jason's feet out from under him, but Jason jumps over his swinging foot. "So it's not her boyfriend that's got you running away?"

"I'm not running away!" Jason manages a slap to the side of Clint's head.

"So he's not the reason you left?"

Jason rolls his eyes. "Clint, will you just pay attention and let it drop?"

Clint shrugs, and ducks a punch. "Just asking. I figured if that was your reason, then you really were being stupid."

"Now what's that supposed to mean?" Jason tries to catch his breath, paling just a little.

Clint succeeds in sidestepping a kick. "Well if you're Katie's best friend, then it's stupid for you to give that up."

"Well Wyatt's the one who told me to back off."

"Wyatt, eh?" Clint receives Jason's knuckles to his chin. "So he can just tell you what to do?"

"That's not it."

"Then what is it? He told you to back off and you went hight tailing it out of there like a whipped puppy. That shows real guts."

Jason swings his leg at the back of Clint's knees, sending him to the ground. "I left for Katie's sake."

"I thought we already discussed that." Clint rolls over and gets up, starting to get used to being knocked down. "If she cares about you that much, it's probably harder for her that you're gone than for her to deal with you and whats-his-face."

Jason remembers Con's phone call, and grits his teeth. He had a headache, and wasn't in the mood for Clint to be giving him the fifth degree too. "Just pay attention to my hands."

Clint ducks a blow. "I just figured that if you really cared, you wouldn't let her boyfriend push you around like that. I'd say it's his job to work things out with Katie if he's that jealous, not yours."

Jason sighs, cringing at a wave of dizziness.

"Hey, you all right?"

"Yeah, yeah." Jason pauses for a moment, putting a hand to his head as he begins to see double. His hands start to shake, and his knees begin to buckle.

"Whoa, whoa." Clint reaches over to support Jason. "What's wrong?"

"Nothing. I'm fine."

Clint sees Jason's pale face, and for once grows concerned about him. "No you're not." A thought crosses his mind. "Say...you eaten anything today?"

Jason groans, and shakes his head. "No."

"You really are an idiot, you know that?" Clint puts Jason's arm over his shoulders and aims for the mess hall. Despite any dislike for Jason, he knew how dangerous it was to have a sudden crash like this, and Jason was going down fast. It takes a lot of effort to get to the mess hall door, and by the time they enter, Jason's vision is blurred and he can barely hold up his own weight.

Beach

*Kate smiles and waves at Jen.* "Hey." *Once inside the truck Katie trys her best to keep her nerves calm. Cars, Cars when would she get over her nerves of cars. Mustering up her best smile Katie turns to Mike.* "I think I am gonna like your world. Its a nice sun spot on a rainy day." *As the engine starts Katie gives alittle jump." Coming on Katie get a hold of yourself." Katie trys to steady her breathing as they starts forword. Katie closes her eyes trying to relax than opens them again focusing on Kyle and Phil in the front seat. Katie turns to talk with Jen about the lake.* "So is it going to be like a beach and stuff? I've never been to the beach before to be honest. It should be fun. Maybe if SOMEONE wont let me drownd I can get my feet wet too." *Katie's excitement starts to build though she is still nervouse about the ride."

*Jamie wonders around TJY for alittle bit heading into the break room to do some some dishes she made this morning. As she is washing she trys to rack her brain. She wanted to do something for her parents but she dident know what. Maybe later when she saw Con they could think of something.*

On the road

“Yeehaw!” Kyle takes hold of the back of Katie’s wheelchair. “Let’s blow this joint!”

After a speedy ride down to the first floor and outside, Kyle skids to a halt by the pickup. “Alright, melady, your carriage awaits.” He bows with a flourish and reaches for the door handle, only to find it locked. “Whoopsies.” He throws Katie a cheesy grin and holds up his keys. “Locked my sister in by mistake.”

“Would you quit fooling around?” Phil asks.

“Yeah,” Mike teases. “What’s the holdup?”

“I’m coming, I’m coming!” Kyle finally gets the doors unlocked and opened, and he peers in at Jen, who’s in the backseat. “Hey, how come you locked us out?”

“Me? You’re the one that…”

“Ah, ah, ah,” Kyle wags a finger at her. “No arguing in front of our guest.”

Jen throws him a smirk. “Aren’t you glad.”

“Yes…yes, I am.”

Mike moves around next to Katie and smiles. “Alright…hang on to me, and we’re gonna get you up here next to Jen.” As he leans down and takes Katie in his arms, it’s obvious that he’s done this before, his gentleness coming through despite all the silliness he can evoke. Once he gets Katie settled and buckled in, Phil already has the wheelchair folded and in the back with Jen’s.

“All aboard!” Kyle hollers.

Mike climbs in the back next to Katie and shuts the back door. Kyle sets his hands on his hips and peers through the window. “You too my seat.”

Mike holds up his hands. “Oops.”

“Yeah, oops. Right.”

Phil starts the engine.

The passenger door open, Kyle has one hand on the door and one foot just starting to climb in.

Phil keeps a straight face and starts to pull forward.

“Hey, hey!” Kyle has to jog for a moment before jumping in and slamming the door. “You could have waited, you know?”

“Oh, but watching you run along side is just way too much fun!”

“You’re embarrassing me in front of Katie,” Kyle scoffs with mock embarrassment. He leans down and grabs the map out of the glove compartment. “Alrighty, Lake Erie, here we come!”

“Uh, Kyle…” Mike reaches up to tap him on the shoulder. “How about you give me that map?”

Kyle’s eyes go wide as he assumes a crazed look. “Never! It’s mine, I tell you!” He unfolds it and scans the roads. “We need to go… north.” He points out the window.

Phil rolls his eyes and points the other direction. “That’s north, and no, we need to go south.”

As the two brothers banter about directions, Mike turns to look at Katie. “Welcome to my world.”




“So I heard about why you came here.”

Jason ducks a punch from Clint, now even more on guard. “Oh?”

Clint tries another punch, his fist hitting air instead of Jason’s chin. “Yeah…Katie.”

Jason goes for Clint’s ankles, sending him to the ground.

Clint groans in frustration. “Why can’t I ever see that one coming?”

“Because you’re not paying attention.” Jason helps him up, resuming his stance. “So you think you know why I came, eh?”

“Sure.” Clint’s next attempt at a jab is blocked. “You got scared away.”

Jason’s knuckles meet Clint’s jaw lightly. “Now what would I be scared of?”

Clint grimaces and rubs his jaw. “The future.”

“Yeah, well I’m sure Katie’s just fine. She’s got Wyatt there, and she’ll get over me being gone.”

“That would make you feel good, wouldn’t it?” Clint takes a blow to the back of his head. “Aw, come on!”

Jason quirks an eyebrow. “Keep your eyes open, Clint.” He ducks a jab to his face. “And why would that thought make me feel good?”

“Because if you convince yourself that Katie is fine, then you won’t feel guilty for leaving.”

Jason frowns as he sidesteps a kick. “It has nothing to do with me feeling guilty or not,” he counters. “All I want is for Katie to be happy, and I’m sure Wyatt can help make that happen.”

“You’re Katie’s best friend!” Clint looks at him as though he’s crazy. “And you took that away from her. Yeah, that’s using your head alright.”

Jason stops and lowers his arms, not knowing why Clint was on this train of thought or what he hoped to prove.

Clint swings his fist and it lands squarely on Jason’s mouth with such force that it knocks him over. Clint’s eyes widen. “Oh, crap, Jason, I’m sorry. You okay?”

“Mm-hmm.” Jason sits up on the ground and feels his lip where it’s begun to bleed. “Nice.”

Clint gives him a hand up. “Sorry. I shouldn’t have swung so hard.”

“And I shouldn’t have let my guard down.” Jason rolls his eyes. “You got me on two counts. One for distracting me, and one for following through with it.”

Clint sobers just a little. “What I said wasn’t meant to be a distraction.”

Jason doesn’t want to admit that Clint’s words about his actions and Katie hit him just a little below the belt. He hadn’t been ready for that. Not wanting to discuss it further though, he turns it around by going for Clint with a quick move to pin his arm behind his back and put him in a light choke hold. “Maybe not, but you distracted yourself too.”

Clint rolls his eyes. “Alright, alright, but if you kill me now I won’t be able to improve.”

Jason releases him and takes another stance after wiping his lip with the back of his hand. “Now come on and use that maneuver I showed you yesterday.”


Jason flops down on his cot, not having done a whole lot today, but feeling tired nonetheless. Realizing his phone has been stuffed in his bag since he got here, he fishes it out and flips it open. He’s got a message waiting, and it’s from Con. Surprise, surprise. He was probably chewing Jason out for leaving.

Sighing, Jason listens to the call. But it’s not quite what he expected. “Jason…what do you think you’re doing? I thought you had more brains than this, boy!”
Jason cringes as he continues to listen.
“Look, I don’t know what your problem is, or what was said between you and Wyatt, but you better get your head out of your rear end and get back here. Do you have any idea what you did to Katie?”
Jason rolls his eyes. She was fine. She had Wyatt. She’d get over it.
“She’s miserable, Jason. Her best friend walked out on her without even looking back and guess what? That’s you. I don’t know if you assumed she’d just deal or what, but let me tell you something – pull this stunt again, and you’re gonna have me to deal with. You’ve hurt her enough, Jase. It’s time you realize she needs her friend. Whether you knew it or not, she counted on you for protection and support, and you’ve let her down. I’m just glad she’s got a distraction right now so she doesn’t fall back into the depressed state you left her in. Now I’m warning you, Jase…no, I’m asking you…as your friend…don’t wait too long to come back.”
Jason lets his arm drop from his ear as the message ends. He closes his eyes and leans back against the wall. Katie had taken it that hard? He honestly thought she wouldn’t have…he knew she’d been crying when he’d left, but…he hadn’t known he was that important. He knew he valued her friendship more than anything…but maybe he hadn’t realized that the choice he made would affect her…had he been that selfish?
Clint had been right…he’d used Wyatt as an excuse to make him feel less guilty about leaving. He’d needed to clear his head…he hadn’t known how to deal with Wyatt telling him to back off, so the option he’d chosen was to simply get out. But it looked as though there were greater consequences than he’d thought.
But how could he go back now? He still couldn’t deal with Wyatt. He still couldn’t just go on like nothing had happened…Wyatt had been ready to kill him the other day. How could he possibly go back into that situation?
Jason begins to feel a dread in the pit of his stomach. Con’s words scared him. Was he risking losing Katie for good? But…even if he was…how could he go back?

He rises from his cot, heading out to take a walk. He needed to think…needed fresh air. Shutting the door behind him, the computer on the desk goes ignored. He’d check his email tonight.

off and away

*As Wyatt makes his way to leave Katie stops him.* "Hey Wy. I'd....." *Katie thinks for a moment wondering if it was even apropret to ask.* "I was wondering if tomarrow morning I could still go to church with you? I'd like it if I could." *Kaite trys to smile her best. After Wyatt leave Katies heart is heavy. Knowing Jason wasent in the room to keep her safe made it hard to sleep. Katie dident like hospetals. Everything that had happend with Wyatt lingered in Katie mind too. Maybe writing an email would help. Grabing her laptop she opens it up and writes.*

Dear Jason,
I know you havent been gone long but it feels like ages. I couldent sleep tonight just being in the hospetal alone is really geting to me. So I though I would drop ya a line and see how you were. Guess what I got to meet Jetstream. They came here looking for you. They are a funny bunch of guys. You should of heard them. It was great. Oh ya Kyle came back with his sister Jen to cuz he saw my pic and wanted me to draw more. Also his sister is in a wheelchair and she was talking to me about how she walked 10 steps the other day. It was really nice to hear someone alse who is in the same boat talk. Tomarrow the guys and Jen want me to go to the lake with them. I'm gonna go it will be nice to get out. Oh ya...Kyle thinks you work for the FBI if only he new how close to the truth he was. Well other than the bank nothing alse happy has happend. Wyatt broke up with my today. Now I know you and your gonna think it was your fault but it wasent. He just thought it was best. So I have been trying to deal with that. He wants to stay friends though.Well I better get going J. Talk to ya soon I hope!

Your Best Friend,
Katie P.

*Shuting off her laptop Katie turns on the tv and finally falls asleep.*

*By the time the guys show up, Katie is refreshed and ready for a nice day out. As they enter and play around Katie cant help but laugh in delight. The sun on a rainy day thats what they were. Throwing a wink at Kyle Katie looks at his brother and smiles.* "He can call me anything as long as its nice." *As Katie makes her way to the door she looks back giving a small sad sigh she just now noticed her Rose Jason had given her is dieing. She hoped he would be back soon with another. Trying to shake the sad feeling out of her mind katie decieds today she was going to try not to worry about that stuff. Not Jason, Not Wyatt. It was her day to be happy, and even though her heart was hurt and heavy, it wasent going to stop her from having fun.* "Ok Ok lets get this show on the road." *Katie throws alittle albow at Kyle as she spin her finger in the air and points out the door.* "OFF AND AWAY!"

Ready?

“What’s wrong?” Jen looks over to her brother’s unusually pensive expression.

“Aw, nothing.” Kyle watches traffic as he drives.

“I know you too well for that answer,” Jen reminds.

Kyle grins. “Touché. Guess I was just thinking about Katie.”

“Oh?” Jen raises a suspicious eyebrow.

Kyle chuckles, unwilling to banter with that one. “Naw, something happened this afternoon between visits.”

“What do you mean?”

“I know know…but she was different.”

Jen furrows her brow. “You sure your perception isn’t off?”

Kyle replays the look in Katie’s eye. She’d been crying. Something had upset her. Not that being in a hospital was easy, but it had been something specific. “I’m sure.” He shrugs. “Not that it’s any of my business though.”

Jen reaches over to pat his arm. Her brother’s sensitivity could be a blessing or a curse. “Well, she seems really nice. I think we might just have made a new friend.”



Jason picks at his supper, barely eating. His mom smiles at him from across the table, and he returns the expression, though he doesn’t feel like it. He looks around the room at all the other people. It felt just like it had the day after Katie had left for TJY months ago. Empty. Only this time he’d been the one to create that emptiness.

While everyone else is still eating, Jason excuses himself. The evening is cool and quiet, and he takes his time ambling past the bunk houses and down the familiar path to the hideout. He was missing Katie something awful. He felt miserable when replaying Wyatt’s words to him to back off…he had told him to back off from his best friend…not much could have been harder.

Jason reaches the small cabin and lets himself in, sinking down on a cot. Had he really done anything to make Wyatt so worried? Maybe Jason hadn’t been so smart with some of his decisions. He was just so comfortable with Katie that maybe he’d let better judgment slip, whether anything had really happened or not.

He sighs, and shakes his head at himself, easing back to lie down. Maybe he really did feel something more than friendship for Katie…but perhaps Austin was right…maybe he simply needed to learn more control. If he let it go too far, he could ruin what he and Katie already had, and he knew he didn’t want to do that. And besides…was he really ready for a relationship anyway? A doubt lingered. He barely had himself figured out…how could he commit to more than friendship? He enjoyed what he and Katie shared… Austin’s words come back to him. Why change it? With so much going on, and with so much he was still trying to straighten out about himself…was it right to allow deeper feelings to take over?

Jason rolls over and sinks his head into a pillow. Yes…he had to admit to himself…he loved Katie. She meant more to him than any friend ever had. But…why complicate things? Now was not the time for a deeper relationship – of that, he was growing more certain. Maybe it would never be right for him and Katie. Perhaps the love they shared was meant to be a strengthening bond for their friendship, and not a romantic element. Yes…Jason thought he could live with that perspective. He should probably take Austin’s advice and be more careful about some situations in order to maintain appropriateness…but he could do that. He wouldn’t have to pull away from Katie just to be more careful. After all, being more careful was in turn showing more respect for their friendship, not harming it. And if he could settle on this perspective, how long could that friendship last? Surely it would remain strong.

These thoughts began to settle Jason’s spirit. He was closer to an answer…he was one step closer to coming to a conclusion he could comfortably understand and live with. But one problem remained… he’d been told to back off.

The pain lingered. He couldn’t go back now…not when Wyatt didn’t want him around. Not when there was that tension. If Jason went back, he would just be throwing Katie back into the middle. Even if Jason embraced the decision to be good friends and only friends, Wyatt would still consider him in the way, and a threat. Jason couldn’t do that to Katie…he’d left for her…he’d left in an attempt to stop that awful tension and suffering. As much as he desperately wanted to go back and be close to his friend again, how could he, when he knew it would make things more difficult for her?

No…as hard as it was…he’d made the right choice. Katie would be happy with Wyatt, and the two of them would be happier without Jason in the mix. And if him staying away was what could help make that happen, then that’s what he would do.


Wyatt comes to Katie’s room that night, bearing supper, along with popcorn for later, and a movie. Settling himself down in a chair next to Katie’s bed, he makes a strong effort to make her relax and laugh, trying his hardest to disperse any tension. He is glad, in a way, to hear about the band, happy that maybe Katie will be able to get out and do other things…the two of them might have lost something, but his true desire was for her to be happy.

It’s close to midnight, when the movie is finally over, and Wyatt bids Katie goodnight. He tells her that tomorrow night he’ll be back, to hear about her day, and to tell her about church.


“Make way for the lady’s escort!”

“Kyle, keep it down.”

“What?”

“You’ll get us thrown out!”

“Never!” Kyle swaggers down the hospital hall in front of Phil and Mike, one hand behind his back. He sees the nurse at her station, staring over her glasses at him with annoyance. He smiles from ear to ear, and approaches her desk without much subtlety. “Hey, good looking!”

The nurse rolls her eyes. “If you’re here to chat, go away. If you need something, state it plainly.”

“Actually, it’s neither.” Kyle produces a small bouquet of flowers from behind his back.

“And…” The nurse frowns. “You expect me to deliver these for you?”

“I’m the one delivering them.” Kyle holds them out to her. “For putting up with one of the most obnoxious visitors, I owe you thanks.”

The nurse is so taken aback that she can only accept the flowers lamely, her cheeks growing red.

Kyle winks at her. He starts to say something more, when Mike grabs his shirt sleeve. “Come on, smooth talker, before you embarrass yourself.”

Kyle stumbles backwards as he’s pulled, and spins around to give a little jump, wrapping an arm around Mike’s neck in a light choke hold. “I got him, I got him!” He uses his foot to open Katie’s door, dragging Mike in with him. “Quick, take a picture! I’ve captured the abominable…” He’s cut off as Mike squirms loose to reverse the scenario, pinning Kyle’s arms behind his back. He’s barely held him for a second when Kyle gives. “Alright, alright, alright!” He smirks at his friend. “Show off.”

Mike grins and leans an elbow casually on Kyle’s shoulder to look at Katie. “Good afternoon, sunshine.”

“Her name’s Kate.”

“Katie,” Phil emphasizes.

Kyle’s love to annoy his brother prevents him from admitting he hadn’t really forgotten. “Ain’t he a genius?”

Phil rolls his eyes, giving Kyle’s arm a slap.

“Ah!” Kyle grimaces. “Easy on the hit, dude.” He looks down at Katie. “So…you ready to go to the lake or what? Jen's out in the truck waiting on us.”

And you thought

*Katie cant help but laugh as Kyle takes her hand pleading.* "Ok so maybe I wont call her...but thats my blackmail now." *Katie grabs a peace of paper and a pen joting down the stuff she will need and hands the paper to Kyle along with her phone number. Before Kyle can even say anything Katie laughs.* "YES I gave you my number. So if you want to go on a date you can call me." *Katie cant help but burst out laught finally catching her breath.* "I'm just joking...its so if you have any questions you can call me." *Katie looks to Jen mischife playing in her eyes.*"And you though he would scair me away huh?" *Smiling Katie nods.* "One-thirty sounds good. I'll make sure I am ready." *After Kyle and Jen leave Katie calls in a nurse to help her out of bed and into her wheelchair. After geting ready and looking halfway presentable Katie turns on the tv and waits for Wyatt to show up.*

Please don't!

Kyle's eyes widen as Katie mentions the nurse. "No!" He slides to his knees beside her bed, grabbing her hand to dramatically plead with her. "Please don't call the nurse! I promise I'll behave!"

Mortified, Jen reaches down to slap his shoulder. "Kyle, get up off the floor, you nerd, before you embarrass yourself."

He turns his head to her. "I got over being embarrassed a long time ago." He hops back up off the floor, enthusiastic about the picture. "Great! Tell me what you need and I can bring it tomorrow - no need to rush it. And...we got church in the morning, so what say we swing by here about...one o'clock?"

"Make it one-thirty," Jen intervenes. "You're giving that lesson to Taylor, remember?"

"Oh yeah." Kyle gives Jen a teasing hug from the side, looking at Katie. "This is my walking day planner. Isn't she cute?" He laughs. "Okay. One-thirty. Be prepared for an afternoon of fun fun fun!" He grins at her description of Wes and Clint. "Wow...there really are other crazy people out here." He looks up, throwing his hands in he air. "I'm not alone! I knew it!"

"Calm yourself," Jen chides. "You're gonna get that nurse in here all on your own if you keep it up."

Kyle slaps a hand over his mouth in horror, but his eyes laugh as he looks at Katie. Forcing himself to be serious, he gives a little wave. "Alright, so we'll see you tomorrow then.

Picture

*KAtie keeps her smile held. Jen was Kyle's twin. Now that she looked closer she could see the resembalance. They were so funny. Going back and forth bickering. But seeing the twinkles showed they loved and respected eachother.* "Its very nice to meet you." *As Katie listens to Jen's story about what happend to her a bit of comfort comes over her. It was horrable what happend to Jen but it was nice to hear someone alses story who could relate to her own. Though Jen was so much differnt from her brother they were still the same. Katie hoped they would both show up more and could become friends. Something she despritly needed more of. Now that Jason was only it only left maybe a handful of people. Jason, how she missed Jason. He hadent been gone for love but he was the bright spot to her day. As she thinks, her bring trys to tell her Jason left for a good reson and he would be back. How Katie wanted to believe that but she was scaired that he wouldent return. Trying to pushing that feeling away Katie sighs. "ok Jason. I'm trying to understand." She thinks. Zoning back in Katie remembers there are other peple in the room with her. Her cheeks turns a soft red.* "Sorry about that I got lost in thought for a moment." *As Katie listens to Jen and Kyle bicker ove her pic she cant help but giggle. How funny they sounded.* "Ok guys no cat fight in my room or I will be forced to call the nurse." *Katie quirks a grin.* "And about the pic one I dont need to be payed but if you bring me the items I need I can redo it and have it done by tomarrow when you pick me up." *Kaite smiles.* "So in other words, yes I will come tomarrow. I think it sounds like fun and I always like to help. I have a knack for helping those in need I guess you could say." *Katie looks to Jen and smiles.* "Dont worry I dont get scaired to easly. Back in Texas at my Aunts ranch alot crazyer things happen. You should see Wes he's a mess, and Clint, he likes to fight chairs. Ya see...its pritty crazy." *For the first time since Katie came to Navada she feels alittle bit home sick.*

Offer

Jason watches BJ run back to his friends, and watches him for several more minutes. He sighs deeply and leans his head back against the barn wall, with no gumption to get up. Reaching into his back pocket, he pulls out his wallet and runs his fingers along the words on the back. "Friendship is what binds us." It was the truth...Jason had been stupid multiple times, but somehow Katie had stuck with him, their friendship seeing them through. He needed her...and recently he'd seen that she'd needed him too. They were close...they had an unexplainable bond. Was that just the way it was supposed to be?
Jason thinks back over his conversation with Austin. Why change anything now? Why worry about the future? Jason knew he had feelings for Katie somewhere...but was it the right time to let them out? He closes his eyes for a moment, purposely letting his emotions run completely wild. Please understand why I left, Katie...I'll be back when I figure things out...I promise...



Kyle throws Katie a smirk. "Hey now, I can remember things when I want. It's just more fun not to sometimes." He grins. "You're right about that nurse though...but I think she'll end up giving herself a nervous breakdown as much of a sourpuss she is."

"Kyle!" Jen chides.

"What?" Kyle gives the look of innocence. "Just pointing out the obvious."

He lifts a silly eyebrow at Katie's reference to her appearance. "Well, if it makes you feel any better, you look like pretty crap."

"Kyle!" Jen puts a hand over her eyes for a moment, shaking her head, but laughs at Katie's comment. "You're right. They never think about us, do they?"

Kyle pushes Jen closer to Katie's bed. For just a moment, he pauses as he notices Katie's bloodshot eyes. He cocks his head a little with a look of question, but moves on instead. "Katie, I'd like to introduce you to my little sister, Jen."

Jen rolls her eyes. "He's born five minutes before me and thinks that gives him the right to call me his 'little' sister." A grin forms. "Nice to meet you, Katie. Kyle was just telling me how he and the guys stopped by earlier. I hope they didn't cause too much trouble."

"Never!" Kyle mockingly defends with shock. "We were pure gentlemen."

"Uh-huh." Jen shakes her head, then looks back to Katie. "Well, if it makes you feel any better, I can't shake hands too well right now myself. But we're working on that."

"Jen was a gymnast," Kyle explains. "About two years ago a faulty high beam gave way."

"Put a whole new meaning to the word 'tumble,'" Jen states ruefully. "I ended up in the hospital with the prognosis that I'd never walk again."

"Yeah, but guess what?" Pride shines in Kyle's eyes. "She walked ten steps just yesterday."

Jen can't help an almost-shy smile. "I'll never be a gymnast again, but just to walk...." She cocks her head at Katie. "You're not alone. I know how it feels. The one thing I didn't have when I was in that hospital bed though, was someone who understood, and I think that was the toughest part for me." She shrugs. "If you ever wanna talk or anything, just let me know."

"Now about that picture," Kyle interrupts, going for Katie's drawing again. "I know you're extremely busy right now..." He gives her a sidelong glance with a quirky grin. "...but if you could make another one of these with just a bit bolder colors, and then put our name at the top, sorta arched like..." He gestures on the paper. "That would be awesome. And of course, we'd pay you for your time."

Jen looks at him with question. "What's it for, Kyle?"

"Promo poster."

"What about the one you made?"

"What one?"

"The one you spent all last Saturday making."

"Oh that one." Kyle continues to study Katie's drawing. "I didn't like it."

Jen raises her eyebrows. "You said you loved it."

"I lied."

"You..."

Kyle throws his sister a warning glance, contrasting the spark in his eye. "This, on the other hand... is a work of art." He holds it up to the light and grins at Katie. "Oh, and by the way, the guys and I wondered if you'd like to go for an outing tomorrow afternoon to the lakeside beach."

"Kyle, you're gonna scare the poor girl," Jen exclaims. She looks at Katie with apology. "My brother can be a little forward sometimes. He doesn't realize that the three of them could scare anybody away just by walking into a room together."

Kyle grimaces. "Hey now." He shrugs, trying to explain himself to Katie. "See after that happened with Jen, JetStream started a little fund we call the sunshine project...we can't get everywhere, but we don't like to pass up an opportunity to help lift somebody's spirits." Again he sees the emotion being suppressed behind Katie's eyes. "I know you hardly know us, but if you want to call Jason, I know he'd vouch for us, and we'll bring Jen along too."

"Of course," Jen adds quickly with sarcasm. "I wouldn't let you three go wandering off by yourselves. You might get lost like you did in Colorado last year."

"I can't help it that the map was upside down!"

Hi, I'm Katie

*BJ smiles up at Jason showing his teeth and scrunching his face up.* "Otay. Spanks for pwaying with me." *BJ jumps up forgeting to take his one actionfigure from Jason and runs back over to his friends yelling.* "ME IS BACK!!!" * BJ laughs and shreeks as one of his friend tackles him to the ground.*

*Jamie smiles at Con.* "Ya they are great." *Heading to the hospetal and not seeing Katie makes Jamies and Con's viset short. Once back at TJY before Jamie and Con go there own way Jamie gives Con's arm a squeeze.* "Thank Con. I've really enjoyed our lunches." *Smiling Jamie heads back to her desk to finish up for the day."

*Once back in her room Katie trys to smile her best to reasure Wyatt she will be ok. Though her heart is once again heavy. As Wyatt lets Katie know he will be back she nods.* "I'd like that. Maybe on you way you could pick up a movie we could watch?" *One Wyatt had gone Katie falls asleep for a short while.*

*After a few hours Katie with a start. She had a nightmare about what had happend today breaking up with Wyatt. It was a hard thing even if they both agreed it was best. Wyatt was one of the best guys she had ever dated and it was hard to let go, though she new it was for the best. The tears start to come back to Katie's eyes. Hearing a familure voice and the laughter she dident know. Listing she trys to pin point who it is. Hearing the fun that is going outside her room she laughs alittle. She new who it was. Kyle. Funny Kyle, but the laughing of the woman was unfamilure to her. Whiping her tears away though her eyes are still alittle bloodshot Katie nods.* "Hey Kyle. Its amazing write this day on the calander you remembered my name." *Kaite throws Kyle a playful wink.* "Ya sure you can come in. I could use some company right about now. Somehow I have a feeling maybe its good that nurse works in a hospetal your gonna give her a heart attack and she is already here to get care." *Katie laughs and smiles at the woman with Kyle.* "Hi, I'm Katie. I'd get up to come over and shakes your hand but i fear I cant." *Though Katie is feeling a bit depressed about the avents earlyer today with Wyatt she trys to hold her smile.* "Kyle if you guys are gonna keep coming to see me, I am gonna have to have notice so I can at least get dressed and not look like crap. Maybe even be up out of this bed too." *Katie looks to Jen again and whispers.* "I tell ya men never think of these things that can bother Wemon do they?" *No matter how Katie trys she cant hold a straght face and cracks a grin liting out a small laugh.*

Hotwheels

Jason laughs a little and lets down his guard enough to play with BJ for a little while, following the little boy’s lead for once.
After a few minutes, he stops, and reaches over to rough up BJ’s hair. “Your buddies over there are gonna miss you if you don’t get back to them.”


Wyatt just holds Katie for a long while, rocking her gently and letting her cry. “Shhh…”
After a while, he pulls her away and smiles at her. “Come on…lets get you back to you room before I get into trouble for having you out too long. Then I’m gonna go pick something up at work, and I’ll be back before you know it to keep your company for supper, alright?”


Con almost argues with Mable about paying for the meal, but he relents, not wanting to offend them. “Thanks, Mable. Take care. I’ll be back soon, I’m sure.”
He follows Jamie out the car and this time pulls away from the restaurant without pulling any pranks.
“You got some good parents, Jamie…I know they tease you something awful about you and me, but I’d come here any day just for their company.”
Once at the hospital, Con leads the way to Katie’s room, but finds it empty. He leaves the food with a note from both him and Jamie, wishing her well and hoping she’s had a good day. He’ll call later.
Leaving, he starts back to TJY.


Wyatt gets Katie settled back in her bed in her room, ensuring she’s okay before he exits. He leaves her door open in case she needs anything from the nurses, and heads out.
Only once he’s back in his car does a single tear roll down his face, though it’s quickly swiped away by his hand before he starts his jeep and drives away.


“…And Hotwheels Jen is coming up from the rear. She’s passing on the inside. She’s fourth, third!”
Kyle’s voice can be heard echoing down the hospital hall from the elevator, along with female laughter.
“The crowd is going nuts! She’s neck and neck with Hillbilly Phil!”

The nurse looks up, mortified as Kyle comes shooting down the hallway, pushing Jen in her wheelchair and breakneck speed. “Young man!!!”

Kyle’s eyes widen, but instead of paying head, he throws the nurse a wide grin and a wave as he passes. “Can’t stop now, she’s on the home stretch!”

“Young man, stop this instant!”

Kyle ignores the persistent reprimand, but suddenly puts on his brakes, sliding past Katie’s open door. “Whooooaa!”

Jen tries to catch her breath from her laughter. “Kyle, you jerk, you’re gonna get us thrown out of here!”

Kyle backs up a step, peeking into Katie’s room. “Yo, Katie. Long time no see. Mind if we drop by?”

On the house

*BJ smiles.* "Thats Spiterman." *With his other hand he holds a figer to his mouth.* "shhhhh...he is in discise." *BJ dances the other actionfigure on Jason's let.* "And dis is his bestest friend. But they arnt talking wright now. Tuz Spiterman dosent know if he should wreally be spiterman. So he dosent want to hurt his friend. Sos now I am twiying to get them to tawl again and me dont know how." *BJ leans his head on Jason shoulder as his legs are still folded moving the action figure on Jason's leg.* "Do what me do see..."

*Katie cant help but nuzzle her face into Wyatt shoulder. She never notices his smell before it was a sweet smell. She liked it. How she wished she had open her heart to Wyatt more. Now it was to late. Sniffing Katie says.* "I'll never tell you to leave Wyatt." *Curse her own fears holding her back, and curse ever loving someone who may never love her back. Katie cant help but Hug Wyatt tighter just enjoying being able to be this close to him for the last time.*

*Jamie giggles and gets up with Con.* "Thanks Mom. Thank Dad is was great as always."

*Herb nods from the kitchen.* "Glad you liked Con. Let Hero know we are thinking of her."

*Mable smiles again.* "Its on the house today Con. Keep your money. Let Katie know we are praying. Maybe one of these days we will come up and see her." *Mable gives Jamies hand a squeeze.* "It was good to see ya again Hun. Take care ok." *Mable lets go and smiles at Con.* " You to Mister. Have a good day you too."

Herb: MABLE....stop being all mushy on them.

*Mable sighs and heads into the kitchen.*

Thanks

Jason is startled by BJ’s approach and isn’t quite sure how to act around the young boy. Seeing BJ mimicking his position, he can’t help but grin a little.
As he’s given an action figure, his eyebrows raise. Now what? “Um, hi.” He studies the child for a moment, feeling more awkward than he should. “So…you’re BJ…” He takes the action figure and holds him up. “But I don’t recognize this guy.”


Wyatt’s heart breaks all over again as he sees Katie’s tears. Even though this was the right thing to do, it didn’t lessen the sting.
As she reaches for a hug, he instinctively reaches down, lifting her out of her chair and placing her on his lap so he can hold her. “It’s okay, Katie…it’s not your fault, alright?” He wipes away some of her tears. “And don’t you worry. I’m still your friend, no matter what, and I’m not going anywhere. I’m here to stay unless you tell me to leave.” He holds in his emotions in order to give her a reassuring smile. “You’re just too great of a woman, you know that?” He chuckles and gives her a brief but tight hug. “You’re gonna make it, Katie…you’re gonna make it.”


Con can’t help his laugh at Mable. “Well I’M certainly not starving,” he calls to her. “If I keep coming here, I’m gonna have to do twice the workouts I’m doing now!”
He finishes his soda pop and sighs with content. “Alright, well…I guess that’s that.” He looks at Jamie. “You ready?”
Standing, he goes to the counter to pay, and hollers back to the kitchen. “Great, pizza, Herb. Thanks.”

A New Little Friend?

*BJ stops what he is doing with his friends and looks up as if someone is calling his name. He looks over at Jason. Standing the brushes himself off.* "I be back duys." *Taking his action figures in his hand he walks over to Jason and hope up on the bail of hay too. Looking down at Jason he trys to cross his legs just like Jason has his. Sticking his toung out alitte bit deep in consintration finally gets his legs like Jasons. For a moment he just looks at Jasons than he hands him one of his actions figures and takes the other and puts it on Jason's leg.* "Hi!"

*A tears comes to Katies eyes. She new what Wyatt said was true. Right now she couldent give her whole heart to him and that wasent fair.* " OH Wyatt...I'm sorry this turned into a big mess. I wanted this to work but your right. Its not fair to you and for that I am sorry." *Kaite lets out a long sigh finally releasing her tears. She couldent help it. Though Wyatt was right it still hurt.* "I'd like to still be your friend Wyatt and we never know what the future holds. I'm just sorry things dident work out. Your a great guy. I care to much for you to make you leave my life for good." *Katie leans in to give Wyatt a hug not able to say anything alse her tears still flow.*

*Jamie smiles at Con thankful for being able to listen to her.* "Poor Katie. Next thing you know Reese is gonna say we are starving her."

*Mable looks up at Jamie.* "Who are you starving? That poor sweet girl?"

*Herb lets out a sigh in the kitchen.* "MABLE....Leave those two alone and let them finish eating."

*Jamie cant help but Laugh as she whipes her mouth. She was so thankful for her parents that had always been there for her no matter what. They helped her so much and we proude for how far she had come.*

The future

Jason sits on a straw bale, his back leaning against the outside wall of the barn. It had turned out to be a gorgeous day…he should be enjoying it more. But after his brief distraction of working with Clint, his mind had wandered back to everything that was taunting him. There was just so much to think about.
He glances over to the yard where BJ and some other kids are playing. They were so happy…content…innocent. Jason could remember being that young…He could remember his elementary years…birthday parties, fun with his mom, trips to the park… then everything had changed. He had changed. Where had he gone?


Wyatt smiles as he sees Katie. She looked so much better than the day before. He knew she was going to be okay, and was so proud of her progress. He starts to question if he should really talk to her now or not, but knows he has to follow through with it before something else happens.
He nods with enthusiasm. “Yeah. Let me push you on out there – give your arms a rest.”
Once they’re outside, Wyatt takes a deep breath, unsure how to start. He eases down on a bench to face Katie, and swallows hard, taking her hand in his. “You know…I was hoping and praying that this wasn’t going to make things harder for you, Katie… my gut tells me that it might come as more of a relief though.” He offers a rueful smile. “I’ve been doing a lot of thinking…about us.” He searches her eyes, trying to read her reaction. “…And…I’m wondering if I expected too much out of you. I guess somewhere along the way I started to fall in love with you, but…” he purses his lips in thought, shrugging. “I can see that even though you care about me, I can’t really hope for much more than that.”
Wyatt pauses, wanting his words to come out right. “I’m not upset or anything at all…I’m actually more okay with that than I thought I would be. And I can’t help but truly value your friendship. I just…” He sighs a little. “I just see through this recent mess that your feelings for me aren’t what they need to be if we were going to take things any further.”
He gives Katie’s hand a light squeeze. “…And that’s okay. I guess what I’m trying to say is, how would you feel about maybe calling things as they are and sticking to being friends? My feelings for you haven’t changed, but I don’t want to make things any more difficult for you by heading down a path that you really don’t want to be on.”
Wyatt offers a gentle smile. “Having you around is a bright spot in my life, Katie…and it always will be, no matter if we’re just friends or not. So…what do you say?”


Con tries to give Jamie a smile. He knows what a hard time of it she went through, and hates to see anyone in pain. But what could he say? Letting it drop, he polishes off his piece of pizza and glances at his watch. “Guess I’ll take a longer lunch today,” he grins. “It’s later than I thought. Katie might have to save her food for supper.”


“Kyle…hello….”

Kyle brings Jen’s waving hand back into focus from across the café table. “Huh?”

Jen smirks at him. “Your brain is normally on another planet, but it’s even further away today.”

Kyle gives her a silly grin and points at her plate. “Cockroach.”

“What?!” Jen jumps and stares wide-eyed at her plate of French fries.

Kyle starts to laugh, his eyes full of mischief. “You ever gonna not fall for that one?”

Jen throws her napkin at him. “Jerk.”

“Hey now!” Kyle shakes a finger at her. “Play nice.”

“Whatever.” Jen rolls her eyes, but a grin escapes. “So you were with the guys today? Did you have practice?”

“Naw…we were looking for Jason up at the hospital where his friend is. Nice girl. Didn’t see Jason though…she said he’s out of town.”

“Hmm…well I hope he comes back. He was awesome the other night.”

“Tell me about it. We were just saying how we’ve only known him, what? About a week? But he’s like part of the band already. We’re all hoping he signs on with us at least for the summer.”

“So how’s his friend doing?”

“Katie? She looked pretty good. Jason said the doctors aren’t too optimistic about her walking again, but he thought she’d pull through all right.” Kyle quirks a grin. “And you and I both know that’s possible.”

Jen smiles. “How long has she been in the hospital?”

“Few weeks I think.”

“Has she been able to get out?”

“How should I know?” Kyle stuffs several fries in his mouth, looking at them crosseyed as they don’t want to all fit.

Jen rolls her eyes. “I guess I can just empathize is all. You know I like to help people.”

“You wanna meet her?”

Jen’s eyes light up. “Sure.”

“Good. I gotta go back anyway. Forgot to see if she’d let me take that picture of hers and make a copy.”

Sadness

*As Katie pushes herself around the courner she see Wyatt at her door.* "Wyatt!!" *Katie throws a wave at him.* " Guess what I took a few more steps today." *Katie smiles alittle more color had come back to her face.* "Would you like to go out to the garden for some freshair it looks nice outside." *As Katie draws closer to Wyatt she see the look in his eyes. Nothing good can come of it. Katies heart once again grows heavy for what is to come.*

*Jamie smiles and nods* "Ya I am ok. Just relized how lucky I am to have them and than I was just thinking of my own kids. Tammy will be 5 next week. I just wish things were differnt is all." *Jamie smiles again at Con taking a bit of her Pizza.*

Concerned

“See, I told ya we shoulda just waited until Monday.”

Mike throws Kyle a withering look as they head across the hospital parking lot. “At least we know where Jason is now. Seems kinda strange.”

“Well we don’t really know him that well,” Phil reasons.

“Maybe we just met him, but it feels like I’ve known him for ages.” Mike shrugs. “He just seemed to really click with us, ya know?”

“Yeah, I know,” Phil agrees as he opens the truck door.

Kyle waits for Phil to get in so he can climb into the backseat, and he throws one last glance up to the second floor of the hospital.

“You coming, genius?” Phil prods.

“Yeah, yeah.” Kyle slips into the small side door. “Just thinking.”


Wyatt sighs deeply as he walks slowly down the hospital hall. Katie should be getting finished with her therapy soon…he dreaded talking to her about what was on his mind… at a time like this, he hoped it would not make things worse for her. But if what he thought was true, it was going to be harder on him than her. It needed to be said though…it was time.
He knocks on Katie’s door, unsure if she’s in her room or not.


Con shakes his head, bewildered and a little hurt at the newspaper. “I don’t know…I just don’t know.”

As Herb comes and leaves the food for Katie then walks away, Con looks over at Jamie and sees the tears in her eyes. His mind immediately shifts from himself to her, his compassion and concern overtaking him. He sets his slice of pizza down and cocks his head a little to try and see her face. “Hey…you okay?”

Anything for my baby

*Jamie nods siping her water.* "Ya she is a strong one do doubt."

*Mable brings the pizza back and looks down at the paper.* "Hey its that Jason kid. He's got quite the talent huh." *Mable turns as more customers come in.*

*Gazing down at the pic Jamie's eyes widen.* "I dont understand why wouldent he let anyone know? Do you think Katie knows Con?" *Jamie starts to read alitle bit farther down.* "Says here they were a big hit too that night. I just dont understand."

*Katie lets out a giggle at Kyle.* "Sorry thats classified if I told you I'd have to kill you." *Katie throws her own wink.* "Nah...I am/was a bodyguard. Well I just started with that anyways." *Katie grins and nods* "Ya I can do another. I'd jut need a few art sapplys and I can do it as many times as you want." *Katie laughs and raises her eyebrow at the suddon exite.* "Nice to meet you guys too. Stop by anytime." *Katie closes her eyes as they leave drifting off to sleep with a smile on her face for the first time since before Jason left.*

*As the time pass Herb finishes up the food for Katie and comes out of the kitchen. He is a shorter man, but well built. Broad shoulders, and very muscular. Someone you wouldent want to meat in a dark allyway. Walking over to Con and Jamie he puts a small cartin down on.* "This is for Hero. Its Chicken stuffed with broccoly and cheese, with some noodles on the side. I know it her fav."

*Jamie smiles up at Herb.* "Thanks Dad."

*Herb holds Jamies face in his hand.* "Anything for you sweetheart. Its on the house today guys no need to worry about it. Take care of my baby Con." *Herb turns and heads back into the kitchen as he hears a clattering and Mable yell.*

*Jamie watches as Herb walks away a single tear rolls down her face.*

Picture

Con chuckles as Mable goes back into the kitchen, and he shakes his head, taking a swig of his soda pop. “Sorry, Jamie…this is all my fault.” He can’t help the amusement in his eyes though.

Answering her about Katie, he shrugs. “Oh, I think she’ll be okay…everything just came down on her at once, ya know. Getting hurt and all that, then Jason taking off. I don’t know what’s between those two, but they’re close, no doubt… I suppose if my best friend just disappeared like that I wouldn’t be too happy either.”

He spies a newspaper on the table next to them, and reaches over to grab it. He casually flips through the pages, and suddenly stops on the fifth page. “What on earth…” His eyes widen. “Jamie…you ever heard of a local band called JetStream?” He scans the article, focusing in on the picture. “They played the other night in Kingdale Park…” Con furrows his brow, wondering why he didn’t know about this. Finally he turns the paper around to show Jamie the picture. There’s no doubt about who is on center stage. “Did Jason ever say anything to you about this?”


Mike offers a small smile in response to Katie’s encouragement. “I hope you’re right. I guess we just sit back and wait.” He chuckles at Katie’s reference to Jason’s protectiveness. “I wouldn’t put it past him, the way he talked about you.”

Kyle holds up her drawing, impressed. “Wow. You got some talent, ya know that?” He lowers the paper just enough to peer over it, his eyes twinkling at her. “What, are you FBI too?”

“Kyle!” Phil gives him another slap to the arm.

Kyle cringes, though laughs. “Sorry, Katie. Though you do have me intrigued…” He pauses, glancing at the picture again. “You don’t think you could do another one of these, kinda making it look water-colorish, with our name at the top, could you?”

Phil raises an eyebrow at him. “What are you talking about?”

“I’m talking about our event posters we hang around.” Kyle taps the picture. “It’s perfect.”

Mike looks over his shoulder. “You know…you could be right.”

“Of course I’m right. I’m always right.”

“Except when it comes to anything having to do with common sense.”

“Hey now, Einstein couldn’t even tie his own shoes.”

Phil rolls his eyes. “You start forgetting how to tie your shoes, I really am going to have you committed.”

The cell phone on Kyle’s belt suddenly rings. “Oh, crap. That’ll be Jen. I was supposed to go pick her up for lunch.” He sets the picture back down and gives Katie a quick salute. “Nice meeting you, Kate”

“Katie,” Mike corrects.

“Right.” Kyle winks at her, proving it hadn’t been a slip of the tongue.

“Alright, guys.” Mike shakes Katie’s hand again. “Nice meeting you. If you talk to Jason, tell him we stopped by.”

The three wave as they make their exit, starting to banter all over again.

Smiles again

*Kaites smiles and shakes her head at Kyle and his comment. If only you guys only new...she says in her mind. She thinks about everything Jason said with his contract and the band. She cant let them think he lost them. Jason wasent gone for good. As those words enter her mind something clicks. Jason wouldent be gone for good...he just needed to clear his mind. Katie felt silly for leting herself get so down and out, a bit of glow comes back to Katies face though she still feeling a bit of depresstion it wasent bad as yesterday.* "I dont think you guys lost him. I saw him that night after the concert when he came back here. He was soo excited. and something in his eyes was differnt. He'll be back dont worry to much." *Katie lets out a sigh and smiles.* "I really am happy you guys stoped by. Even if it was for Jason and not me." *Katie cant help but giggle.* "I have wanted to meet you guys since I saw the consert and I am glad I did. You really help life my spirits."
*The nurse pokes her head into Katies room and throws a look at the 3 guys.* "Everything ok in here Kat? You Therapy will be in an hour the Doc is running late."

*Katie rolls her eyes.* "Yes I am fine. Does it really look like these guys would hurt a fly." *Katie smiles.*

*The nurse throws the guys a look and walks out.*

*Katie shakes her head* "Sometimes I think Jason told they to watch me like a hawk or something. Sorry about that." *As Katie see Kyle put up her pic she can feel her cheeks burning again.* "Ya I did draw that." *Katie cant help but beam at there comments. It made her feel good.* "Ya I did do it from memorie. With my line of work I have to take everything from my sarrowding and remember it so later if something is out of place and not right I know it."

*Jamie shakes her head at Con mouthing her own words to him "I'll get ya". Looking to her mother she smiles.* "Make the whole pizza that. It sounds really good. Oh and before we leave can dad whip something up for Katie? we are going to go see her and want to bring her som good food"

*Mable smiles and nods.* "Sure can Hun. I think its nice your taking that sweet girl someting." * Mable goes to leave but turns around again.* "I saw Jason in here not to long ago. He looked so sad. Everything ok?"

Herb: "MABEL...give me there dang order and leave them alown. Stop being to nosey."

*Mable turns around and waddles to the back kitchen*

*After Mabe is gone Jamie sighs.* "I sure hope she is gonna be ok."