Into the night

*Charlotte's own grin forms on her lips at Bret pulls away. Her other arm falling from Bret's head to his back to wrap around him like her other. For a moment Charlotte is silent trying to compose herself. Though she had out of the blue kissed Bret yesterday, today it was differnt, more feeling was put behind it. Charlotte dident hate the feeling she rather liked it. Being close to someone again was nice, and having them return the affection was even better.

Clearing her throt alittle Charlotte's looks deep into Bret's eyes. Scaning, looking, searching...what was she looking for in them she dident know but what she saw she new she liked.*


"So, whats your conclution? Was yesterday just a fluke or was it just as good?"


The hours pass, the fun continues. Though most were gathered in the barn the laughter rang through out the ranch. From courner to courner, on end to the next. This joyus occation would not go unnoticed.

*Rosetta look up at her husband a smile everlasting on her face. Giving alittle nod she scans the barn watching everyone again before looking back to Mick.*

"I think now would be a good time. Everyone looks settled."

*Rosetta watches BJ with Con and Jamie a smile on her face.*

"And BJ looks content. I'm ready."

*Rosetta clasps Mick's head leaning into him as they start to head out. Giving a few goodbyes, hugs and kiss to people leting them know when they would be back. And they would send pics when they came in.

Finally exiting the barn Mick and Rosetta are off for the week. Both knowing they would have a grand time, alone together, husband and wife.*

*Jamie sits at a small round table with Con and BJ. Once BJ is finished Jamie leans over to him smiling.*

"Want to dance alittle little man?"

*BJ looks at Jamie a hesatence in his eyes still his ears pick up on the beat. A smile spreads across his face.*

"Yeah, Lets do it."

*Jamie stands as BJ slips out of his chair. Taking his hand she leads him to the dance floor. Than taking his other Jamie stand out on the dance floor with BJ swinging back and forth moving his arms and spinning him in circles. Than leting him lead Jamie as they both whair smiles and fill the floor with laughter.*

*Wes places a glass of water and ice in front of Cindy leaning down and giving her a kiss.*

"Here's your water sweeyheart."

*Wes had striped down to just his tank, dress pants and shoes again broving the barn was on the warm side. Siting down in the chair next to her Wes leaning back and puts his arm around Cindy and laying his hand on her arm drawing her closer to him. Giving a smile to Con who had a places for Jamie, BJ and himself across from them.*

"Are you guys planing on staying the whole week? It will kind of be like a mini vacation for you both too."

*Wendy gets a quirky smile on her face as she looks to Clint right after filling in Camryn about the chair episode and a few other thing. Poor Clint she had been embarssing him all night. Figureing she should probley stop for now. Turning to Camryn she smiles alittle. It had been nice to have another person around to help pick on the guys with. Wendy was alittle sad knowing Jason and herself were going to to be leaving tonight.*

"Hey Camryn I was wondering if maybe before Jason and yourself left for the night we could take alittle walk and I could show you around since you dident really get to before. That way you can say you really did see all of the ranch."

*Wendy throws a smile to her friend.*

*Katie stands in the doorway scaning the barn a smile on her face. Everyone seemed happy and content. Even Scott was lost in his own world of taking pictures. It made Katie happy to see him having a nice time and enjoying something other than working with computers. Katie's eyes continue to rome the people still the fall to the far wall where Jason was standing. Pushed off to the side standing alone. Katie new thats where Jason liked it best, but it made her alittle sad so see him alone.

Slowling Katie makes her way over to Jason. Offering a friendly smile she stands next to him.*

"I really like that song J. You have a nice talent among other of put words together."

*Katie stops for a moment thinking. Turning her head to Jason. Her eyes showing true sensarity.*

"I'm glad Camryn came with you. I got to talk to her alittle more and she seems really nice. It makes me happy seeing someone able to make you smile again."

Reception

Charlotte's whispered words are like the sound of the beating wings of a vibrant butterfly, lighting on Brent's inner being. His eyes closed, he feels her embrace, feels her returned kiss, and feels the startling passion he shares.

His free hand crawls up her arm and neck to find her face, cradling her jawline as his thumb caresses her cheek. Being here in the cool surroundings of the pool, with the waterfall echoing through the hidden chamber, a light mist enveloping them, Bret could stay here forever. He had missed having someone in his arms. He had missed sharing these kinds of moments. He had missed this feeling. Releasing the trapped passion felt good.

Eventually, slowly, he draws his face away, his hand still to Charlotte's cheek. Staring into her eyes once more, he tries to slow his racing heart. He hadn't planned on this...he hadn't intended things to get this far...but he didn't regret it.

A small grin curls the corner of his mouth and he speaks quietly. "I was just curious to see if you always kissed that way or if yesterday was a fluke."


Mick's eyes dance, his smile never fading. "I love you too," he whispers. Slapping his hat back on his head, they head down the aisle once more, receiving the smiling faces.

Con leans down to return Jamie's kiss, giving her a smile and a wink. Continuing to hold her hand, they head into the mingling crowd that shifts toward the barn.

Luke wraps an arm around Angel, pulling her close, feeling her happiness. It wouldn't be long until it was they who would be saying their vows... When, was the only question.
He plants a soft kiss on Angel's head, and gives her a squeeze. "If you can get this old man up on his feet, he'll escort you to the festivities."

Clint gives Wendy a crooked grin as they stand, offering her his arm. "Melady.....may I have the honor of being your date for the reception?"

Cindy wipes the tears from her eyes and turns to give Wes a small kiss. "I love you," she says softly. "If Rosetta is half as happy with Mick as I am with you, those two will never part again."

Jason slowly stands, watching everyone with interest, seeing their reactions, seeing their happiness for their friends. It had always intrigued him...weddings...how different people responded. In this setting, it was obvious that most were so very close, that when one felt joy, it was shared by all. He wondered for a moment exactly what that joy would feel like.

"Earth to Jason..."

He looks down quickly to Camryn. "I'm here..."

"You look awfully far away."

Jason gives a little shrug. "Just thinking."

"Please tell me you're not going to be a party pooper and skip the reception."

"No..." Jason knew he couldn't get away with that one.

"Good." Camryn gestures to the barn. "Remember, I'm the stranger here, you lead me."

Jason gives her a wry grin. "Like you couldn't handle going alone. But alright, come on."


Scott changes out a roll of film and catches Mick and Rosetta before they reach the barn. "Alright, you two...I was told to get some good shots, so don't think you're going to get away just yet." He stands back and gestures to a nice grassy spot with lush green trees as the backdrop. "I want you two over there," he directs.

Once they're in place, he starts snapping photos, telling them when to move, smile, and several times, he insists they kiss, receiving no objections.

Glancing around, he spots BJ. Knowing that he would soon be adopted, Scott couldn't resists including him, and waves him over, making him stand with Mick and Rosetta, once just in the middle, once with Mick holding him beside Rosetta, and then a shot with just Mick and him, with Mick crouching down next to him, his hat enveloping thee boy's head so his eyes were barely visible.

Next, spying Katie, he calls to her, forcing her into the scene too, some pictures with all four, but then taking several shots of just Katie and Rosetta.

Satisfied, Scott nods. "Okay, I'll quit the torture. You're free to go."

"Not yet," Mick intervenes. He holds out his hand for the camera. "You two," he gestures to Scott and Katie, "Stand back here."

Scott quirks an eyebrow. "I don't..."

"No argument," Mick cuts him off.

Scott's face reddens slightly, but looking to Katie, he relents, and moves in beside her.

Mick positions the camera and grins. "Move in close, you dufus," he chides, getting Scott to put his arm around Katie. "There we are, now smile like you two mean it, because I know you do."

After several clicks, Mick glances to Rosetta with mischief, then back to the young couple. "Now I want to see a kiss."

Scott can feel the heat in his face. "Mick!"

"You made me do it."

"Well that's different!"

"How?"

"Well you two just got married!"

"And...?" Mick can barely hold back his smile. "You telling me you don't love this girl?"

"I..." Scott tries to swallow his embarrassment. Looking to Rosetta, then Mick, then back to Katie, he locks eyes with her. "No," he answers Mick, "I'm not telling you that at all, because that would make me a liar." Moving in closer to Katie, he wraps his arms around her, pressing his lips to hers.

"Yeah!" Mick's finger hits the button, capturing the moment in time. He waits until Scott and Katie withdraw from each other before handing the camera back to Scott. "Take care of that film now, you hear?"

"I'll guard it with my life."


Noise begins to erupt from he barn and around back as music is played through a sound system, the wedding cake cut and refreshments served. Sandwiches and chips will come out later as suppertime draws closer, but for now it's kept light, the mingling continuing. Some people leave, bidding farewell and wishing the couple well.

After a short while, Mick looks to Rosetta who is still on his arm. "What do you say we sneak away while the going is good? I wouldn't want to miss our flight."


Jason stands back to one corner, his hands in his pockets as he leans against the wall. He'd talked with Clint, chatted with Jade, bantered with Camryn, talked more with his mom...he was getting just a bit tired. His eyes roam the gathering, finding Camryn fitting right in and talking with other people. She seemed to be having a ball, and he was glad he'd invited her. Maybe he still was capable of making somebody happy once in a while.

Rosetta Henson...AHHHHH

*As Bret draws Charlotte close to him her eyes never leave his eyes. For this moment everything seemed to perfect. As Bret's lips touch her softly once her pulse starts to race as all in time and space stops. As Bret pulls away the first time Charlotte eyes stay locked on his again. She softly whispers.*

"What matters in life is not the amount of breaths you make, it's the moments that take your breath away."

*As Bret pulls her in for another kiss Charlotte's arm makes its way about Bret's back at the other on finds its way to the back of his head. Holding him close soaking in his kiss like a sponge and returning it with a passion of her own.*

*Rosetta smile is big, and her feeling are deep. The long awaited moment, the words she waiting to hear for so long said. Like a story her life was unfolding, and the end of this chapter had come. Only to quickly start a new chapter of beginning of a new life again. Not alone but together with her bestfriend, the love of her life her husband.

Rosetta kiss Mick back bringing her arms around him proving how happy she was.

As Rosetta hears the crowd and than see Mick hit go over them she cant help but have her smile grow even more. Being Mick's wife now was the greatest feeling, this kiss, the one that showed there love, and put a stamp on the marrige was an amazing thought, And knowing her friends, and family had been there to witness it was even better. Finally Rosetta knows they cant stay up there forever and ending there kiss she searches his eyes, her own full of joy and love.* Giving a soft whisper Rosetta states.*

"I love you."

*As Jamie watches on Her hand finding Con's. A few tears of joy run down her own cheek. As she watches Mick and Rosetta head back down the isle.

Jamie had been told the story of Mick and Rosetta's life the last time she was here. She had shaired with her new friend the moments of happyness and the moments of sadness. They had been though so much and Jamie was sure she only new the half of it, but she could tell by the look in Rosetta's eyes the love that burned for one person always and now, finally after all these year God had finally let them become one. Jamie hadent know Rosetta and Mick for long but she was happy and filled with such a great amount of happyness for her it was hard to contain.

Looking up at Con Jamie smiles and streches up to give him a kiss. The emotion and feeling from the wedding pouring over into her.*

*Angel leans into Luke as she watches her two best friends walk back down the isle together now man and wife. It made her heart jump and dance with joy to see them so happy. Looking up at Luke she smiles so many emotions ran through everyone being able to shair this wonderful moment.*

*Lockheart stands with Reese a smile on her face as she claps for the new couple. Even a few unseen tears roll down her face. Sometimes joy and happyness was just to hard to contain. Lockheart was happy she came, she was happy to be there with Reese as she started feeling new emotions that had layed doorment for so long. It was a nice feeling, and though still feeling alittle akward. Lockheart only hoped it was grow easyer as time passed.*

*Finally the people start to file from where the wedding was held. Some hanging back to talk with other while other started helping get food out to the barn and put some of the finishing touchs on. Each finding who the came with or who there date was. Talking mingaling with other outside enjoying the air before heading into the barn for the reception.*

Married

Bret's heart begins to race as he feels Charlotte's hand on his shoulder. A moment ago he'd been playing, full of humor, but suddenly everything had turned around.

Swallowing hard, the water drips down from his hair and runs down the side of his face. He blinks and continues to stare into Charlotte's eyes.

The moment was too perfect. Leaning closer, Bret's hand makes its way around Charlotte's back to pull her to him, feeling her against his chest. Cocking his head, his lips brush hers for a moment before he pauses, then returns for a passionate kiss.



As Rosetta's words are spoken, Mick's gaze only intensifies with the moment, never letting go of one word, never blinking to miss anything.

His hands gently grasp hers as the minister concludes the ceremony. And finally, those long awaited words.

"I now pronounce you man and wife.... You may kiss the bride."

Mick's smile widens as he moves in closer to Rosetta. Removing his hat, he tilts his head, pressing his lips to hers in the kiss that sealed their love. Their journey had just begun.

Suddenly a cheer breaks out in the back, starting an onslaught of claps, whistles and more cheers. Mick starts to laugh even though he's kissing Rosetta, and he puts his hat up in front of them to hide their exchange.

Words from the heart

*Charlotte sits and waits listening in the quiet for Bret, hearing nothing but than see the dark form in the clear water Charlotte grins watching him.*

"I guess that depends."

*Charlottes eyes dance as she stairs back into Brets own eyes. Seeing his own lift Her heart starting to to beat faster at the unknown of what would happen next.*

"If your my capter, than maybe I'd rather stay captive."

*As Bret movies close to Charlotte her face becomes inches from his. Bringing her one hand up she puts it on his shoulder. Being so closer to him she can feel her own breath bounce off his skin and is able to feel his breath on her's. Charlotte's eyes lock with Bret's searching, waiting for his next move.*


*As the Sparky sings the song couples cling to eachother. Some having silent tears, ones of joy. Friends hold hands, happy to see this day that some never though would come.

Rosetta stands stairing back at Mick. Her eyes no longer being able to contain her joy as some tears slip out. She smile lighting up her face. Reflecting her love, and joy back to Mick. Nothing alse matter.

As Mick ends his vowe and slips the ring on Rosetta's finger her smile just grows and grows. Next it was her turn to say her vows. Holding the ring up to Mick hand Rosetta's own is shaking slightly from the excitment, and love of the moment.

Through her tears her voice is strong, filled with love. The undieing love she had for him for years. Thouh everything. They were the living proof love would find a way. Rosetta's eyes meet Mick never moving her words strong.*

"I Rosetta, choose you Mick as my best friend, to now also become my husband. My love for life. I promise you my deepest love, my fullest devotion, my tenderest care, through the pressures of the present and the uncertainties of the future, I promise to be faithful to you. I promise to love you, to commit to you, and support you. I promise to love you in good times and in bad, when life seems easy and when it seems hard, when our love is simple, and when it is an effort.

I pledge to respect your unique talents and abilities, to lend you strength for all of your dreams. You have shown me what love feels like and for that I thank you. You never gave up and me, and always told me I could shoot and reach for my dreams.

You are everything I need and at this moment I know all of my prayers have been answered and that all of my dreams have come true. I praise God for you Mick: for all of your love and constant friendship. I know that our love is heaven sent and I promise to be here for ever and always. I love you. You are my best friend. Today I give myself to you in marriage and from this day forward, you shall not walk alone. My heart will be your shelter and my arms will be your home. As I have given you my hand to hold, I give you my life to keep till death do us part."

Vows

Bret can’t help his laughter at Charlotte’s antics. Unsure why, but not really caring, he feels like a kid again – something he’s not felt for a long while. It’s ridiculous that they’re both swimming in their clothes, but for some reason, neither really think anything of it.

Getting close to Charlotte, then dodging her combative jabs or splashes, he plays along, simply enjoying the cool water in the heat of the day and just letting himself loose. Wanting more freedom of movement in the water, he sheds his t-shirt and slings it up on a rock to start drying.

At Charlotte’s fiend wails, Bret grins and goes underwater again. It’s several moments that the pool is quiet, as he seems to have disappeared. But suddenly a dark form comes up from below, rising slowly until his head comes up directly under the showering waterfall.

His wry grin showing, he moves closer to the back just inside the waterfall and inches from Charlotte. “Mmm, you better shout a little louder…I don’t see your knight anywhere.” His feet barely touch the bottom, just allowing his head above water, and he moves even closer to her, his eyes narrowing. “Or have you changed your mind about being rescued?”



Con smiles down at Jamie as she joins him. “You look better,” he responds with a wink. Finding two seats together, they sit down and wait.


Scott is fooling with one of the cameras when Katie comes around, and he stops, a grin spreading on his face. Returning the kiss, he chuckles. “I’ll fend them all off,” he teases. “And the rest of the time I’ll be fending the guys off of you.”

He pauses, quirking an eyebrow. “Has anyone told you lately that you’re drop dead gorgeous?”

Finally setting into some seats, Scott sits with Katie part of the time, and part of the time eases to the sidelines or closer to the front to take pictures.


Reese can feel just a little bit of heat creeping up the back of his neck, but covers with a smile. “You look very nice yourself, Angelica.” He offers her his arm, and gestures to the row of seats. “Shall we?”


Cindy glows with the attention from Wes, and settles in next to him, her hand in his. She was so very excited for Rosetta, and was thoroughly enjoying this day. Seeing her son nearby was icing on the cake.


As the music starts and people start to make their way slowly down the aisle, a hush comes over the yard. Con winks at BJ as he passes, giving him a thumbs up, grinning at the young boy.


Jeff waits in the back with Rosetta, and gives her hand a squeeze, winking at her with a brotherly affection he didn’t always show. “You’re beautiful, Rosetta,” he compliments quietly. “I’m proud of you.”


Mick waits at the front, his eyes glued to the back, his concentration only on his bride. A figure of calmness, he stands as she approaches, a slight smile on his lips, the love and reassurance shining in his eyes. He doesn’t care about the watching eyes, the music playing, or whether he’s standing in the right place or not. Nothing else matters, but what he and Rosetta are here for, and nothing can break his joy in this moment.

As they stand together, Mick gently reaches out to take Rosetta’s hands in his, his eyes never leaving hers. This was there time…their moment.

The minister speaks, the brief message of love and devotion falling onto all ears, and bringing the reality of marriage to life. And as the ceremony continues, a hush falls, allowing Mick and Rosetta time to simply stand together as a song is sung.

Sparky quietly strums on his guitar from the side, growing just a little louder with the chords. And as he begins to sing, everyone listens to the words. Smiles and tears both decorate the faces. To just a few, the style of music and rhythm would be familiar, recognized as written by one they knew. To others, it was simply a song of love.

Oh it seems like just yesterday,
We met for the first time.
Oh it seems like just yesterday,
We were dancing in our youth.

Time slips by…
And time don’t try…
But time can’t win…
Babe, we made it out alive.

You came into my world,
You stole my heart away.
You took my broken world,
And picked it up again.
Anything, that I could do,
I want to do with you.
Anywhere that I could go,
I want to go with you.

‘Cause you are mine…forever.

Oh it seems like just yesterday,
We had our first fight.
Oh it seems like just yesterday,
We both ran away.

But time slips by…
And time don’t lie…
But time can’t win…
Babe, we made it out alive.

You came into my world,
You stole my heart away.
You took my broken world,
And picked it up again.

Anything that I could do,
I want to do with you.
Anywhere that I could go,
I want to go with you.

‘Cause you are mine…forever.

Yesterday is gone now.
Yesterday is through.
Our life is full of yesterdays,
Oh, but today, I got you.

Anything that I could do,
I want to do with you.
Anywhere that I could go,
I want to go with you.

‘Cause now you’re mine…
And I am yours…
Forever.


Mick’s fingers tighten around Rosetta’s the love in his eyes growing. He was standing on the brink of forever and ready to fly.

As the minister proceeds with the ceremony, all eyes fall to Mick, awaiting the vows prepared only for the one with him now…words from his heart…words from his soul.

His eyes lock with Rosetta’s, his voice never wavering. “Rosetta…I love you with all my heart. We’ve been torn apart by circumstance, torn apart by time and torn apart by distance. But in the end, my heart belongs to you, and today I give all of myself to you.

I promise to never let that love die. I promise to stay with you through all circumstances, easy or hard, by your side as your husband from this day forward. I promise to be faithful to you. I promise to take care of you to the best of my abilities. I promise to uphold our marriage as our unbreakable bond in the sight of God who has given us each other.

A smile crease his lips. “And I reckon all these promises remain ‘till death do us part.”

Starting

*Charlotte cant help but laugh as Bret himself hits the water. Having someone to shair her sence of adventure and seeing Bret let loose was great. It was never fun being and ideot alone. Feeling the water on the back of her head and hearing Bret's comment Charlotte wherls around laughing.*

"I'll Bogey you come here ya stud muffin you."

*Charlotte cups her hands alittle bit throwing splashes at Bret. Giving little kicks or pokes at him when he tryed to come close. Dodging him when she could. Laughter rang out through the quiet air."

"You have to be faster than that to catch me you know."

*Charlotte moves through th water with easy. Finally going under again swimming twords the water fall. As she pass thorugh under the water she can feel the pounding and the bubbling leting her know she was on the other side. Coming up for Air she stands inside the water fall as the running water echoed and make it alittle hard to hear. Bringing her face close to the water fall she playing legs alittle sob out though a small laugh can be hurd in her voice. As she brings a hand to her forhead.*

"Oh whoa is me, I am traped in my prison of water. Whatever will I do. If there a handsome galent knight out there who will save me. If there is how will he...whoa whoa is me."

*Charlotte laughs as she continues to swim in the water leting only her head above it. Her laughs and soft movment echoing more in the hollow walls it made. She new she was acting still, something she dident do offten, but for some reason, something compeled her to for this moment.*

*Jamie exits the mess hall where she had finished geting ready. Believe it or not it was alittle less crowded to get ready there. Seeing Con making his way across the lawn she calls his name and waves making her way over to him. Jamie teal dress that faded into a brown as it got to the bottom was just above the knee, with thin straped shoulders proved to be nice and cool like she had hoped for the heat here. On her wrist she wore proudly the bracelet Con had given to her. Grinning and eyeing Con she smiles interlocking her arm with him as they make there way to find some seats.*

"You look good as always."

*Katie stood to the side scanning the room. Her hair done up with white and red flowers to match her red spagedistrap dress. The dress came in at the waist acsnting Katie's curves nicley and than flowed back out again as it went down the dress came to about the bottom of her calf. Around her neck she wore a delicite red gemed necklace.

As Katie continues to scan she finds who she was looking for. Coming up slowly behind Scott Katie puts one arm around his waist and leans her head over his shoulder whispering.*

"I hope no ones trys to steal you away from me today because you are looking good."

*Katie smiles and spins around in front of Scott giving him a soft kiss on the lips.*

*Rosetta waits nervousely in the back tucked away with Angel who was dressed in a long flowing lite silver silk dress that gave alittle dip in the front and than another in the back. Angel's hair was done geled alittle to give it a wet look with a dimane clip in the shape of a butterfly in her hair. Jeff also waiting in the back with Both Ladys.*

*Lockheart steps out of the bunkhouse and makes her way to the backyard. With a bit of help from the others she had faired pretty well this afternoon. Walking across the grass Lockhearts Soft blue shere floor lagnth dress shone in the sun. Lockheart Wore a danty silver chain around her neck and her hair was tied back with a blue ribbon to match her dress. Spoting Reese she gives alittle wave and goes over to him smiling.*

"You look very handsome."

*Lockheart cant help but shy away alittle. She wasent use to dressing up fancy and hope she looked ok too.*

*Wes enters the backyard now fully dressed with his whitedress shirt on and tucked in along with a tie. Spoting Cindy he slids in the chair next to him and places a hand on her tummy giving her a kiss.*

"You look at pretty as an angel like always my love."

*When everyone is a ready a soft music starts to play signaling for those not in the wedding to take there seats.

The bridemades makes a line finding who they are to walk with, and BJ alot with Lilly are next in row than Rosetta and Jeff.

A differnt melady starts to play and the bridsmades start to head down the isle breaking off at the end where Mick stood each taking there side.

Next BJ and Lilly head down. Lilly throwing flowers and BJ holding the pillow with the rings. Half way down BJ see Con and beams at him taking Lillys free hand. and finishing the way down the isle.

There is a lul for a moment...Rosetta looks to Jeff and smiles.*

"Thank you Jeff."

Finally the wedding walts starts. Once the song gets to the second time though Roetta and Jeff start to decend the Isle. Rosetta's eyes lock onto Mick's as they walk. The smiling faces of people fading, the ohhhs and ahh dwindling. All Rosetta could see was the man she loved standing there, waiting for her. Finally her dream coming true. As they get to the end of the isle Rosetta turns to Jeff and gives him a kiss on the cheek and a hug. Walking up the tiny steps to stand infront of the minister and slightly turns to Mick. And everlasting smile one her face. and the glow of emotiong in her eyes. Tears threatent to overflow from Rosetta's eyes but she tryed to hold them back the best she could for now. This was the happest moment of her life.

After the music stops the minister gives a smile and a short greeting before finally starting.*

All Dressed

Bret’s own shoes and socks are off as he tests the water, but he raises his eyebrows, taken just a little by surprise as Charlotte actually takes a swim. Cocking his head, he just watches her though, a smile creasing his lips. The carefree nature…the sense of wonder in the little things…it was contagious.

He shakes his head and stands up on the large rock, puts his hands on his hips. “The water may feel different here, but you realize that you’re sopping wet and going to be sitting in my car?”

Sighing, he shrugs. “Oh well. Might as well even things out.”

Bret has no idea why even decides to do what he does. Perhaps it’s simply that there was no decision…there was only impulsiveness that drove him to act on pure instinct toward the adventure of the moment.

Spinning around, he lets himself fall backward into the clear cool water, creating a great splash that ripples the water out to the edges. Disappearing in the deep blueness, he doesn’t come up right away, almost a full minute passing. But suddenly he emerges behind Charlotte, spitting out a stream of water through his teeth that hits her in the back of the head.

“Don’t look now, but you got a bogey at six o’clock.”


Scott leans against the outside of the barn, trying to recover from his allergy attack, finally rid of the kitten.

“Hey, you alright?”

Scott squints to see Clint coming toward him. “Yeah, I will be.” He rolls his eyes. “Soon as I get the scent of cat out of my nose.”

Clint laughs. “Ah, so that’s it.” He’s finally dressed in his good shoes, khakis and blue dress shirt, though his tie is still undone, hanging loosely around his neck. “I bet Angel’s got some allergy meds if you need ‘em.”

“Nah, I should be okay.” Scott shakes his head. “I need to start getting myself ready anyway.”

“The far bunk has been claimed by all the guys…go for it.”


Mick keeps his eyes covered, though a smile breaks through. “Sorry, sorry. And I tripped, what can I say.”

“Oh, you did not.” Mel gives his arm a slap. “Just get yourself out of here, and for pete’s sake, clean up.”

“Sure, I see how you are. Poor guy comes in here looking like he’s been stampeded over, and all you can do is kick him out. Don’t even offer him a bandage.”

“Out!” Mel raises her voice, pointing to the door. “Out, out, out!”

Mick obeys, calling over his shoulder. “I’d blow you a kiss, darling, but with my eyes closed, I’m afraid it would land on the wrong person.”

“Out!!!” Mel gives him a shove, finally shutting the door. Once he’s out though, she can’t help but start to laugh, covering her mouth with a hand. “Oh, Rosetta, that was priceless…” She can’t stop her giggling. “I can’t believe he did that. Did you see the look on his face?!”


Jay breaks into a smile as he sees Katie, and catches her embrace, hugging her back tightly. “Mmm, it’s good to see you, Katie.” Drawing back, he looks her all over, pride showing in his eyes. “You look so good.”

Giving a contented sigh, he glances at his watch. “I better find a place to change, and I’m sure you’re quite the busy beaver helping out Rosetta.”


Everyone wraps up all the tasks that they’ve been assigned to and begins to scatter, all getting cleaned up and dressed, the clocks ever watched.


Con exits the bunk, scanning the surroundings for Jamie. He’d parted with her about an hour earlier to get ready, and he knew everyone would be gathering out back, so he wanders in that direction. In his dress pants and gray button down shirt that he usually only wore on Sunday mornings, he walks slowly, his arm still in a sling.


Scott emerges soon after, his hair lightly gelled, his cologne fresh, and wearing his black dress pants, and white collard shirt tucked in. Still a bit of out place, he looks around, not really expecting to see Katie yet, but still on the lookout.

As he nears the back yard where everything is set up, he sees people already getting settled into the chairs to wait, and the minister is around as well, mingling with the others.

“Scott!!!”

His eyes widen and he turns, surprised to see Becky. She was in a pretty pink dress with her hair all done up nicely, her fresh makeup giving her face a soft glow. “When you were here last time, I saw you walking around with a camera. Are you any good?”

Scott holds his surprised look. “Um…well…some people would say so.”

“Do you like taking pictures?”

“Yes…”

“Good.” Becky waves to Jim who is nearby. “Over here!”

Jim comes up, dressed in his good suit and tie. “Ohh, Scott.” He has two good cameras in his hands. “You wouldn’t want a job, would you?”

Scott quirks an eyebrow. “I get the feeling you need a photographer.”

Jim elbows Becky. “We must have dropped good enough hints.”

Scott laughs. “Well as long as you don’t mind an amateur, I’m game.”

“Ohhhh, thank you, thank you.” Becky smiles gratefully. “We lost our photographer and have been looking all day. One of the other guys would have ended up with the camera, but I was hoping to find someone who actually had an eye.”

“I’m not sure I’ve got an eye, but…”

“Not what I heard,” Jim interrupts. “Con says you’re good.”

Scott’s face reddens slightly, and he reaches for the cameras, changing the subject. “Nice cameras.”

“They’re not bad.”

“Alright.” Scott slings one over his neck, and keeps the other in his hand. “I guess I’m your man then.” Following Jim and Becky around back, he scans the area, zeroing in on good vantage points for pictures.

By the time half the group has gathered, Scott’s sleeves are already rolled up and he’s stealing shots of faces and emotions before the wedding begins.


Mick sets his foot up on the chair, bending over to polish it until it shines to match the other one.

“You going to your funeral, or wedding?” Sparky teases.

Mick looks down at his good black jeans and black dress shirt, tucked in to leave his western belt buckle showing. “What?”

“Kidding.” Sparky rolls his eyes as he dons his suit. “Though usually the groom looks better than the groomsmen.”

Mick gives his brother a wry grin. “I think Rosetta would still pick me, don’t you?”

Sparky shakes his head, but laughs. “Alright. Fine.”

Mick straightens up and takes his good black hat out of the closet, removing it from its plastic and brushing off just as little dust. The silver band shone in the light, topping off his clothing for the ceremony. Looking in the mirror, he puts his hat on straight and aims for the door. “See you out back,” he calls over his shoulder.

Making his way outside, he glances around at all the people, and waves to several he hasn’t seen yet. He ambles to the back yard and around the area with the chairs, greeting the minister with a handshake.


Reese wanders into the back, his hands in his pockets, striding slowly towards Austin and a few other people he knows. His gray suit is clean and sharp, a contrast to his normal casual attire at work. His eyes roam the yard, despite his conversation, looking for Lockheart, and hoping she made out alright with the other women today.


Luke sits near the front row, having been one of the first changed so he could be helped out here. He leans his hands on his cane, having given in to that, though wasn't thrilled with having to use it. He hadn't really felt like getting dressed up either, but had forced himself, choosing his dress pants and light green button down shirt. Tossing comments back and forth with Jeff kept his mind occupied while he waited for everyone else to show up.


“My, don’t we look handsome?!”

Jason’s face reddens just slightly at Camryn’s compliment. He was simply dressed in black jeans and a bright blue collard shirt with the top buttons left undone. He’d chosen his black cowboy boots over his other shoes for today, proving his ability to blend in out of the city.

He cock his head at Camryn’s purple dress with spaghetti straps and knee-length skirt. High heels were her choice of footwear, and a dainty silver necklace accented her neck. “You don’t look half bad yourself.”

Camryn rolls her eyes a little. “Well, I guess that’s as good a compliment I’m going to get.” Instead of waiting forever for an invitation, she takes Jason’s arm herself, linking his with her own. “They’re all gathering out back,” she informs. “Let’s go find some seats.”

Almost Time

*Misty firry eyes shine in the moment, basking in Carson's comment about it being her day and about the grilled cheese. Geting Carson up and moving alittle would be good for him and it was a nice day outside anyways.*

"Ok, we are going to go to Lunch than, movies, and than home on your request for grilled cheese. And if we decied to do anything inbetween that we will."

*Misty stands and holds her hand out to Carson to help him up before heading out the door.*

*The sun was hot pounds down at Charlotte as they reach the water fall. The light misty hiting Charlotte's face and arms felt good. As Bret shakes the water from his hair and it sprays on Carlotte she lifts her hands up trying to stop it from landing on her. Leting out a laugh that was almost a harmonic sound.*

"Hey, watch it."

*Charlotte cant help but grin. So far everything about this day was great. It was nice having someone to spend time with. Steping up next to Bret Charlotte over looks the view with Bret. Her breath almost geting caught in her throt. The view was amazing. The way the light glicened off the land, and the shadows streched as if reaching out. Charlotte had never seen something more prettyer than this.

Steping away from the ledge Charlotte returns to her back and gets her water taking a drink as the heat continues to make its presence know. Standing again she streches and looks back at the pool of water geting a grin acorss her face. Siting down on a large bolder Charlotte takes her showes and socks off. Rolling up her pants she sands going over to the waters edge. Steping her one foot in she pulls it out quickly gives a shiver. Looking back to Bret she grins.*

"Your right that is cold."

*Turning back to the water Charlotte sticks her foot back in along with the other. Standing almost lifeless for a moment She breaths again regaining feeling in her legs as they start to get use to the water. As she leans down to run her hand through the water and splash some on her face her pant leg unrolls and falls down landing in the water causing it to soak it up like a spunge. Leting out a grone her looks to Bret again her grin growing alittle showing she really dident mind like her words said.*

"Oh man...so much for trying to keep my clothing dry. Oh well Tal es la vida!"

*Charlotte jumps forward diving into the water submerging herself. After a few moments coming up farther out in the water.*

"Its not quiet as bad when you do your whole body as once."

*Leaning back She enjoys the cool water on her skin from the hot day. Looking up at the sky she just rests watching the clouds as she floated ontop of the water. Leting her mind wonder. The clear waters washing over her offering the cool chrisp feeling to her. So much passed through her mind as she felt calm and relaxed. It wasent often she went some where this deserted with a person but something about Bret was nice. Maybe this is what Angeal was talkign about oh so long ago before he died. Charlotte remebers his words like they were yesterday. "When you know something is right Baby Sis you'll feel it and dont resist, but when you know something is wrong and you feel it dont be scaired to backdown." Finally she leans back up looking at Bret as she treds in place. She cirtently dident feel wrong for being here with Bret at the moment. She enjoyed his company and the say he talked.*

"Its amazing, one would think all the water felt the same, but this water here, it just feels so clean, just come run your hand through it."

*Charlotte smiles up at Bret from the water, the light from the san dancing on the top, the water almost unmoving except for the little ripples Charlotte gave off from moving a bit.*

*Bj smiles looking up at Con taking his good hand in one of his, his fingers geting lost in Con's and his other hand taking Jamies.*

"Ya, wets go."

*As Mick enters the house Rosetta almost screams seeing him. Half being shock and half not wanting her to see him.*

"MICK..."

*Than seeing his hand over his eyes she shakes her head.*

"What are you doing? I though your clothing was in the bunk. AND WHAT on earth happend to you."

*Rosetta goes to stand and go to him when Katie pushes her back down.*

"Oh no you dont. Your in white your not going near him when he looks like that."

*Rosetta looks to her neace and shakes her head, giving alittle laugh and not moving till Mick was gone again.

Hearing a car Katie stands and looks out the window to be saprised to see her father.*

"I'll be right back."

*Katie heads out of the house and takes a few steps twords Jay before breaking out into a run throwing her arms around him huging him tight. She was happy to see him, she was happy he was there.*

"DAD....You made it!!"

*The next few hours fly by as everyone get ready and the finishing touches are being made. Food is coming in and out of the kitchen going to the barn to get ready, hair is being done, ties tied, shirts tucked in, dress being zipped. The Chaos slowed but new chaos started as the excitment grew and the time came near.*

Sorry!

“Mmm…” Bret thinks about Charlotte’s observations of him, contemplating if he thought them true or not. He had to admit that she pretty much had him pegged. Not that he’d tried to hide anything…he hadn’t exactly been shy with her since yesterday.

A wry grin escapes. “Alright, you win. I’m transparent. Except you did get one thing wrong…I never said I actually liked wallowing in bars.” He cocks his head. “But you’re right about attractive women who talk back…and you definitely fit that category.” His eyes give her another once-over before turning back around to keep walking forward.

He listens to her talk about herself, finding her personality simply growing in appeal. It was too bad she lived in California. After this weekend was up, that would probably be it. But…maybe it was worth it. Bret hadn’t taken the time out to just break loose in a long time, let alone with a woman, and Charlotte had given him the prime opportunity. Not to mention she was the kind of company he enjoyed.

As she pauses to take a swig of water, Bret slows his walk, looking up the winding trail. “Well…I don’t know how many lives you’ve changed, but you’ve changed one man’s weekend into something other than bar wallowing, I’ll give you that.” He gives a light chuckle. With the downhill spiral his life was taking at the moment, this had already been a nice pick-me-up.

Hiking for just a while longer, the waterfall comes into view, and Bret leads the way up to it until they’re standing just feet away, a light mist reaching them.

Grinning, Bret sheds his backpack and steps forward, sticking his head into the crystal clear water. Drawing back, he sucks in his breath. “Wooee, is that cold.” He laughs. “Sure feels good though.” He shakes his head quickly, letting the water fly. Standing back, he admires the view from the high point they’d hiked to. One could see for miles from up here.


Carson shifts his weight and finally sits up, accepting the water and aspirin, downing a couple pills. He knew he needed time to heal, but he needed to buck up too. He had another round in just two days now and had better get with it. If he couldn’t get around today, he had no business getting back in the ring again.

“Having you around, I can do anything.” He puts an arm around Misty’s shoulders, pulling her in to give her a kiss. “Today is your day…we’re going to do what you want to do, and the expenses are on me.” He lets the spark show in his eyes. “I just have one request…that if we have dinner here… we have grilled cheese sandwiches.”


Con chuckles at BJ watching the little girl. “Oh, Kiddo, holding a girl’s hand isn’t so bad. You might actually like it.” He gives BJ’s back a light pat. “Good job with the balloons. You think we ought to go see if they need any more help in there?”


Mel rolls her eyes at Katie’s question, giving a little sigh, and keeping her voice low. “Mick was apparently out riding for some ridiculous reason and his horse came back without him. Sparky and Eric went looking for him though, so I’m sure everything is just fine.”

Though she wore an air of confidence, a bit of worry was in her own eyes.


Camryn tilts her head at Wendy’s comment, receptive to the advice, and impressed with the analogy. “Thanks…I’ll keep my lure in the water.”

Grinning, she accepts linking arms with Wendy. “And I questioned if this was going to be any fun at all…I have a feeling it’s just started.”

Following Wendy to the tables for the reception, she helps out with the decorations, proving to be of help as she lets Wendy show her what to do, but adds her own flare and chats away, totally at ease despite being in a strange place.


“You gonna get that taken care of?” Sparky gestures to the gash in his brother’s arm.

“Yeah, yeah.” Mick gets Trebble back in his stall. “I just gotta go up to the house and get my clothes.”

“The house?!”

Mick raises his brow. “Yes, the house.”

“I thought you had your stuff in the bunk.”

“Well I didn’t want to have to move everything after Rosetta and I get back next week. I’ve been moving my stuff in for weeks now.”

“You’ve got to be kidding me – your good clothes are in the house.” Sparky throws up his hands.

“What?!” Mick tries to twist his head around to see the injury on this upper forearm. “Just let me go get them.”

“But Rosetta’s in there!”

“And…?” Mick rolls his eyes. “It’ll only take me a moment, good grief.” He heads down the aisle.

“But Mick!!!”

Mick strolls out of the barn and heads to the main house, leaving his disgusted brother behind. Gingerly feeling his injury, he steps up onto the porch, his work clothes, grass stains, blood and all. Knocking, he doesn’t wait for an answer, and barges in. “Sorry ladies!” he calls loudly. Covering his eyes with one hand, he sidles inside and slips sideways down the hall, running into a lamp, but catches it before it falls. “I’ll only be a moment, don’t mind me…” Feeling along the wall, he reaches a chair where one of his bags is to pick it up.


A taxi pulls up to the driveway, letting someone off, and drives away after they’ve been paid. Jay shoulders his small bag and walks down the drive, heading for the mess hall.

Hours pass

*Geting out of the car Charlotte changes into her more suteable sneakers, and takes her bandana and ties it over and under her hair providing as headband to keep her hair out of her face. Taking out a few other items and places her water bottle back in along with a few other thing slinging it over her shoulder and ready to go.

As Bret turns around and continues to walk back words throwing his statment at Charlotte she grins at him thoughtfuly.*

"..But I do know who you are for the most part. Your name is Bret, you like to wallow in bars, You talk talking to attractive women who will talk back. I know you were married and it dident work out. Your pretty good at pool, and you like a challange thats why you dident turn me down yesterday. Everything alse I dont know about you, I am sure as our adventure continues I will learn and I am sure they are all fun and exciting things."

*Charlotte continues to walk dodging roots, and fallen branches on the path.*

"And yes, I guess I am brave. Am I fearless, goodness no, but I do like walking on the wildside and taking risks. You seem like a pretty good guy Bret from what I have seen so far, and I have no worrys. Life is to short to walk day by day fearing what could happen. I like living my life to the fullest, so when my time on this earth is up, I know I lived a full one and maybe changed a few peoples lifes along the way."

*The sun reflects off Charlottes eyes causing them to flicker and glow with life. Reaching into her bag she pulls out a bottle of water and takes a swig returning it back to her bag.*

*Misty smiles down at Carson giving him a kiss and feeling his hand on her face.*

"Well...its far to early to eat dinner yet. So I was thinking maybe we could go relax see a movie, grab some lunch, maybe do alittle grocrey shopping so you can actully having some good food in your house....."

*Misty throws Carson a grin.*

"..grab a few dvd's, come back here watch them and I can make us a nice dinner. Or if you not feeling to up to it we can just hang out, go to dinner, grab some dvds and come back here. It just depends how your feeling. You need to take the rest of the week easy so those ribs can heal. I dont wanr you over doing it."

*Misty moves slightly reaching out and grabing the asprin and poping the bottle open than the bottle of water handing it to Carson to help his head.*

*BJ continues to laugh and squeel as Con picks him up continuing to tickle him. Gasping for air and trying to squerm out of Con's arms. But to no avail the small boy cant. Finally being put down BJ stands tall fixing wrinkles in his clothing.*

"No...."

*BJ shakes his head."

"...I wash hiding."

*BJ looks around Con's brawd body to a little girl about his age standing in a soft pink drink with her hair done up. As she looks around at everyone it like she is looking for someone. Spoting BJ she smiles and gives alittle wave. BJ jumps and stands straght again as he hides in front of Con keeping his voice soft.*

"Rosey wants me to hold hans wifh dat girl."

*BJ scrunches up his nose at Con.*

"But I did hewp Wendy wift some ball...bubbles..baboons. In the mess hall."

*BJ beams at her acompishment.

Jamie cant help but smile and give a laugh as BJ trys to pronounce Balloons giving Con's good arm a soft squeeze.*

*Rosetta turns to Mel and gives a nervouse smile and taking a deep breath.*

"If you can for me those flowers on the table need to be tied with that ribbon. One for myself thats the one with the Roses and than 3 others, for Angel, Katie, and yourself. Just bundle them together however you think they will look good. You have a good art eye Mel."

*Rosetta smiles as she heads into the bedroom for a moment.

Katie stands from one of the chairs where she was working on puting ribbons around the wine glasses for the reception. Looking up at Mel she waves her over keeping her voice low.*

"Is everything ok? Aunt Rosetta keeps saying she is geting a bad feeling in her stomach like something is wrong. I keep trying to convince her its just wedding jitters but I'm not so sure myself now that 3 differnt people have come in looking for Mick. I think she is starting to worry herself."

*Wendy looks at Camryn for a moment thinking about what she said.*

"Sometimes when a fish bits at bate once, and gets hooked only to be throw back in new water it gets confused. Being leery of the next peace of bate it bits at."

*Wendy follows Camryn's eyes outside staying quiet for a moment.*

"...Keep the bate in the water long enough, and prove to the fish you wont give up and he will bite, he just had to make sure he wont get hurt again."

*Wendy lets out a sigh. She new how much Jason and Katie had cared for eachother, and how it must of tore at both of them to break it off. But now she new they were moving on, Jason deserved to be happy as much as anyone alse, and she hoped the fish would bite again.

Linking her arm around Camryns she gives alittle tug.*

"Good, I need all the help I can get at this point we are geting down to the last wire. Follow me."

Kitten

Bret puts the car in gear again and gives Charlotte a sidelong glance as she hands him the quarter. "Keep it. We'll probably need it again."

It doesn't take long for them to reach a sideroad that takes them a couple miles off the main highway to a small gravel lot. Parking, Bret pops the trunk and retrieves a backpack to put a couple of the apples in, some trailmix and his little digital camera.

Once Charlotte is ready, he locks the car and leads the way toward a wooded path. They were truly out if the middle of nowhere, and the sense of the unknown adventure hung in the air.

"You know..." Bret turns around to walk backward for a moment. "You're pretty brave to come out here in the boonies with a guy you don't even know."


Carson gives Misty's hand an extra little squeeze at her reassuring words. "I don't understand you, Misty...but I sure am glad you are the way you are..." His words trail off, his body unable to resist the temptation of sleep as her hands lull him into a relaxed state.

...Carson's eyes fly open and he gives a little start. Blinking, he tilts his head to look up at Misty, realizing that he'd fallen asleep. "Sorry," he mumbles. "Guess I was more tired than I thought."

Thinking for a moment to bring himself out of his fog, he reaches a hand up, his finger outlining her face. "It's a lucky bloke that wakes up to the face of an angel." Searching Misty's eyes, his own reflect too many thoughts and emotions to even try sorting out. "I could stay here all day, but then I'd be going back on my word about doing something with you." He quirks a grin. "So what's the game plan?"


For but an instant, Con sees a strange look pass through the eyes of the child before him, and he suddenly realizes what BJ is talking about. Compassion hits him hard for this little boy that had been through things no six-year-old should have.

He breaks into another smile at BJ's theory about how he got hurt, and laughs as Jamie starts to tickle him. Intervening, he reaches down and scoops BJ up to hold him sideways under his left arm in such a way that he can't wriggle out. "You think I can't handle somebody on my own?? Huh??" His long fingers reach BJ's ribs to pick up where Jamie left off.

After a few more minutes of teasing BJ, Con finally lets him back down. "So what are you doing anyway? Are you helping set things up?"


Mel takes her instructions from Wes and makes her way to the house. Knocking first, she steps inside to find a slightly panicked atmosphere. Grinning at Rosetta's nervousness, she shakes her head. "Your soon-to-be brother-in-law wanted to make sure you weren't getting the jitters...I guess I'm too late."

She smiles and approaches the others. "Anything I can do to help?"


Clint rolls his eyes and stuff his rag in his back pocket. "Alright, alright. I'll go get dressed, if just to get you off my back." He points a finger at her, then Camryn. "I don't know why, but something tells me that the two of you can be a deadly combination, so don't think I'm not watching you..."

Turning to leave the break room, his foot catches on one of the chairs and he stumbles forward toward the door. Catching himself, he whirls around, aiming his fist at the chair. "And don't you start!"

As he slips out of sight, Camryn can't help her giggle. "Looks like you caught a fine one. I get the feeling Clint can be an awful lot of fun." She turns her head toward the window where she can just see Jason a ways away, walking with someone she didn't know. "If only I was so lucky," she comments ruefully. "But how can you reel in a fish that won't even look a the bait?"

She shakes her head with another laugh. "Okay. I would love to help you with the tables. Just point me in the right direction!"


"...so yeah...I still got bad bouts every once in a while."

Adam remains in quiet thought for several minutes as he and Jason stroll the perimeter of the ranch yard. "Well, I'm sorry you're still having trouble, Jason. From what you're describing now though, I would have to agree that perhaps these episodes are more than just the flashbacks you used to have."

Jason stops and turns to him. "Is there any way I can make them stop?"

Adam sets a hand up on his shoulder. "I wish I had a magic formula for you, but you know it doesn't work that way. I taught you how to walk through your past, and in doing so, it helped rid you of the "typical" flashbacks. But this..." He shakes his head. "The more I see you and study your case, the more I realize that you're indeed unique. Whether it's the kind of trauma, or whether it's the way your brain processes the information, for some reason, when you're caught off guard it's like blowing up a dam and letting everything out all at once."

"What do I do?"

"Let those close to you know what's going on so when it happens they can help you. Don't be scared of it and don't be ashamed of it. It's apparently something you can't control. Let people know what to do to help pull you back out - which is something only you know... and just keep working on those memories. This may very well be something that follows you the rest of your life. Or, it might fade." Adam gives an encouraging nod. "But no matter what, I have a feeling you'll survive...you're too hard-headed not to."

"Jason!!"

He looks up quickly to see Jade at the side of the house. "We need someone tall!"

Jason gives her a wave and calls to her. "Coming!" He turns back to Adam. "Guess that's my cue."

Adam grins. "Guess so. If I don't get a chance to talk to you again...you take care of yourself, alright?"

"Yeah..." Jason nods and turns to jog toward the house.

Adam watches him leave and gives a little sigh. The exchange had been brief, but he could tell there was an awful lot on the young man's mind. Jason hadn't mentioned prison, but Adam knew good and well that something like that would have affected him.


"Mick!" Sparky spots a figure on the ground next to Trebble who was standing quietly, his leadrope dangling loosely. He urges his horse forward quickly, with Eric behind him. "Mick?"

Mick looks up to see two riders and sighs, rising from his crouched position by Trebble. "Nice timing."

Sparky skids his horse to a halt and dismounts quickly. "What are you thinking?!" he raises his voice. "What happened?"

Mick frowns. "Look, Trebble spooked, I got hung up in his rope and he pulled me right out of the saddle."

"Oh that was smart."

"Don't rub it in!"

"Well are you okay?"

Mick grimaces and shows a tear in his shirt where there's blood. "Oh, I caught a rock or something, but I'll live."

Sparky rolls his eyes. "Well for pete's sake don't let Rosetta see you like that. She's in enough of a tizzy the way it is."

Mick raises his eyebrows. "She is?"

Sparky looks his brother in the eye. "Mick...it's...your...wedding...day.... hello!" He waves a hand in front of his face. "Now get your hind end back to that ranch and get yourself cleaned up! You only got a couple hours."

Mick smirks at him. "I do know what time it is, and since I do have a couple hours, I don't get why you're so ancy."

"I give up." Sparky throws his arms in the air.

Mick notices Eric sitting quietly on his horse. "And what are you doing here?"

"Nothing but enjoying the show." Eric grins. "Tell you what, you take my horse so you can lead Trebble and I'll ride double with Sparky back."

Mick gives a disgusted sigh for the whole situation and nods. "Alright." He takes hold of Trebble, satisfied the young horse wasn't injured from their little episode earlier.

It takes at least twenty minutes for the three riders to come back into view, and Mick tries to slip into the barn without letting anybody see his injury.


Scott wanders around the ranch, feeling miserably out of place, though he does find a few people he knows, and winds up chatting with Pete for several minutes. His nervousness of the crowd grows, but he tries to suppress it, winding up heading for the barn.

As he's walking down the aisle though, his eyes suddenly start to water and burn. Looking down, he sees a barn kitten. "Aw, no...no, kitty." He scoots the kitten back with his shoe, but it meows and trots back enthusiastically.

Scott sneezes and starts to back out of the barn, beginning to wheeze. The kitten follows right along like a clueless shadow.

Still Time

*Charlotte takes in the sights not minding there wernt many buildings or cars. Seeing he open planes, and the moutains in the distince was enough for her. Taking a sip of her pop she lets the fresh air blow through her hair, feeling the nice breeze on her hot face.

As they pull onto the side of the road Charlotte studys the sign for a long moment. Puting the top back on the drink Charlotte puts the bottle down. Taking the coin from from Bret once again she sends it flying in the air only to be caught and slaped down in her other hand. Before removing it though she looks at Bret and smerks slowly looking down uncovering the coin and finally looking down revealing it to be tails. Looking up and she grins again.*

"Looks like we are going on alittle hike. I guess its good I decied to bring my bag after all with some stuff in it. Like sneakers, and a bandana."

*Charlotte's excitment grew. So far the ride, company, and chating had been a blast to set the mood proving today was going to be a great day leting her grin grow on her face as her eyes catch Brets.*

"I dont know about you but I am starting to like chance and fate, more and more by the minute."

*Charlotte holds up the coin between her two fingers for Bret to take back.*

*Misty continues to cradle Carson's head on her lap. Her hand continuing to run through Carson's hair, than along his forhead, and side of his face. Her fingers running sloftly on his skin taking great care as they go over his cuts and bruses. Her other hand staying interlocked him his, clinging to them as if scaired to let go for they might be lost forever. Closing her eyes for a moment Misty gets lost in though. Thinking, wondering, hoping, trying to push those red flags from her mind. Finally opening her eyes as she feels him wince shattering her thoughts Misty looks down at Carson. Her eyes filled with the emotions she felt, the emotions that showed proof to her words. *

"I'm still here Carson. You havent lost me and I dont plane on going anywhere. I care to much about you to just say goodbye."

*BJ looks up at Con.*

"Yes you did..."

*and for a moment the small boys eyes grow dark for a moment. He was little and he was young but his memorie was good. BJ was far smarter than a normal child his age, and sometimes it showed more than other. BJ remembered one person he remembered well that he has spend much time with that never did come back.*

"...but dhat dosent always mean you will. Shank you for keeping you word."

*BJ gives Jamie and Con a hug again a little extra tight this time. Finally pulling away his eyes light up again and a smile on his face. Pointing to Con's arm that was in the sling he asks.*

"What happend? Did Jamie wrestil you wifh out me to protect you and you dot hurt on mistake?"

*Jamie cant help but laugh as she ruffles the little boys hair.*

"Hey watch it there little man, or I am gonna to tickle you to death."

*Jamie bends down to knee level and wiggles her fingers at BJ till the meet his sides.

BJ lets out squeels of laughter.*

*Wes gives a nod to Camryn.*

"Like wise."

*But had no time to say more as Mel pulls him aside. Hearing the news about Mick his eyes grow wide as he keeps his voice low.*

"You have got to be kidding me. Now...at a time like this.."

*Wes brings a hand to his head for a moment thinking. What would happen if something horrable happend to Mick. Rosetta would be crushed. This was not ment to happen on a wedding day. Wes new, and prayed though that it was nothing, it had to be nothing. Rosetta and Mick had gone through so much, and waited so long for this it had to work out. Looking back at Mel he gives a sigh.*

"Ok..I'll go take a count of who we have here and who we are still waiting for. Can you check on Rosetta for me? Make sure she isent having normal geting married day freakouts. We have time to find Mick. I am sure everything is going to be ok. And if you hear anything alse let me know."

*Wes heads out of the shop and disapears trying to take a count of who they had, greeting others along the way.*

*Wendy gives a playful elbow to Clint as she smiles at Camryn.*

"Yeah I hold my own pretty well."

*Wendy thinks for a moment about everything that still needed to be done on her own list she had wrote up of stuff to do.*

"Actully, I do have something I could use some help with. I need to finish puting up some of the table decarations if you want to help me do that. It will give me alittle bit of comapny to"

*Wendy looks back at Clint a smile playing on her lips.*

"..And you get dressed all ready."

*The next truck to pull in and park behind Adam's was Damiens. For a long moment he just sits in the truck feeling a bit akward by beng here. He dident feel it was his place, but was honnered to have been welcomed anywas. Finally gives alittle sigh Damien's steps out. Mick and Rosetta were going to be adopting his son, that in its self was an honer to him. To keep the little boy in the family, and to know at least he could see his son when he wanted and get to know him. It would be good to see Wendy again as well. Slowly he was geting to know his daughter too. It still felt stange at times but not nearly as bad as it use to be. Not to mention Annie had invite him to be her date. It made Damien feel good to be wanted, and to know he had come a long way.

Annie smile as she see the truck enter the lot. Walking over to Damien she smiles.*

"You made it."

*Damien smiles back taking Annie's hand in his and walking with her twords the tent and group of people.*

"I wouldent miss it for anything."

*Angel cant help but laugh as she sits with Luke. His arms wrapped around her felt nice. Looking up at Jeff Angel shakes her head.*

"Sorry Jeff, I cant help you on that one. He has a mind of his own and I rather think its kind of funny watchign you."

*Angel sticks her toung out at Jeff and laughs.*