Hi

Trying to pull herself from the darkness that held on to her so tight Ryan. The familure voice, that had almost been long forgotten cutting the darkness like a knife through butter.

"Da.....dad?"

Prying her eyes open the tiny stilts let the light shine through causing her to squint just a little letting them get use to the light before she opens them the rest of the way with what little strength she had. Seeing Eli a small smile formed on her face. It had been so long since she had seen her brother but he looked just the same as the last time maybe just a little taller.

Her voice sounded weak forming the words she wanted to say though they went strong like her voice normally was.

"Eli..."

Ryan's smile grows a little more as she closes her eyes again and swallows having a bit of a hard time but managing than open her eyes again her brother still standing in front of her.

"Your still....here, your not a dream. How...did you know?"

Thinking for a long moment Hope lets out a sigh as she shakes her head a little. Letting out a small breath she had held in she couldn't help but be a little re-leaved that Gunner hadnt hurt him.

"Well, at least it was just to say he was sorry. I mean its not excuse but...I guess its better than trying to help him again."

Leaning back and taking a sip of her coffee Amanda just lets the warm liqued go down her throat. Letting out a small sigh she tryed to let the stress of the day out before she continued.

"Well right now I dont have much time to myself. Its been that time of year around here. But when I do find a free moment I like curling up on the couch with a good book or movie."

Giving a smile Amanda was about to continue with a shadow was cast onto the table. Looking up and seeing Bree giving a wave as she stood there in she scrubs she smiled.

Seeing her uncle with dr Fuller Bree made her way over to the table a silly smile on her face as her eyes danced with a teasing humor.

"Hi Uncle JT, Hi Dr Fuller. I came here to pick up some books from the hospital library and look into a root beer float for a friend when I caught sight of you guys. I just thought it would be nice to come over and say Hi. Didnt want to bother you for to long."

Games

Eli complies with everything, never questioning Amanda's decisions. He knew Ryan's life was in their hands, and he had to trust them.

JT gives Amanda a little grin and nods. "Yeah, coffee sounds good. I'll join ya."

Walking with her to the lunch room, JT poors their coffee and then eases down in a chair across from her. "I can tell this is gonna be a long day already," he muses, shaking his head. "So tell me... We work in the same hospital but hardly cross paths. What keeps you busy outside of this place?"


Eli cooperates with the nurses, and once the blood they need for testing is drawn, he's free to go see Ryan. Slowly entering the room, he pauses, then goes to the bed. His leather chaps creak just a little as he sits on the edge of the bed. Staring down at his sister, his heart aches for more than one reason. Reaching out, he brushes her cheek with a rough hand. "Oh, Ryan..."


Reese nods quickly. "Yeah, JT was ok. Apparently, Gunner went to apologize to him. At first, JT was just gonna let it go, so that's why he waited, but then he decided he better report it. He didn't feel threatened but he knew Gunner wasn't supposed to be there. I went ahead and told him what had been happening on this end."


The doctor cocks his head. "Family."

"Failure."

"Love."

"Foreign."

"Hate."

"Madness."

"Peaceful."

"Hope."

The doctor stops and studies Gunner quietly. "Do you have hope?"

"No. I was referring to Hope Garrison." The corner of Gunner's mouth twitches. He was tired of the stupid word games.

"Killer."

Gunner sighs, relaying once again, the first word to come to mind. "Me."

"Truth."

"Gray."

"Friends."

"Elite."

"Betrayal."

"Friends."

"Brent."

"Alone."

The doctor pauses again. "You know you're not alone."

"Cut the crap, doc." Gunner shakes his head. "You think I don't know where you're going with this? All you're doing is trying to figure out who I am and how I think. It would be easier if you just asked."

"Hmm. Storm."

Gunner rolls his eyes to the ceiling, muttering under his breath. "You want games, I'll give you games."

Coffee

Giving a nod to JT Amanda agrees. She was a little shocked herself.

"I am hoping his will work too and his blood is the right blood. I cant help but worry a little even though I know its it the lords hands."

Taking the papers from Eli Amanda looks over them quickly making sure everything was signed and nothing was left out that could cause problems.

"OK Eli, I am going to set you up in this room here..."

Amanda walks with Eli giving him a bref overview on what he was being testsed for and everything that would be going on. A nurse would be handling it but as soon as it was done, herself or JT would be right there to examen, and determ his blood than head right for his sister.

Also Amanda told him that wight might be a little bit so he was more than welcome to go see his sister though be warned she didnt look how he might remember.

Once getting Eli settled Amanda lets out a sigh as she exits the room and finds JT again. Leaning on the counter next to him she runs a hand through her hair before giving a small smile to him.

"I could use some coffee right about now, want to head down to the lunch room with me to get some?"

Looking up from the cubicle to Reese's voice Hope was a bit suprised that Gunner had been to see JT again but it was just not being told about it.

"Is he ok? What did he say happend and why wernt we told sooner?"

Taking some notes down on paper Hope thinks for a long moment consering what should be done. She hadnt called the hospital yet today to find out how Gunner was but maybe she would show up.

"I was thinking about going to see him a little bit later, but not till after lunch."

ready

Eli nods at Amanda seeming unhindered by anything she says, even him needing to stay there. "I'll do anything I have to," he assures. 'I don't care what it is."

Accepting the paperwork, he leans on the counter of the nurses station ans starts to fill it out the best he can, sometimes having to stop and think.

JT stays nearby to observe and help if need be. Off to the side, he leans closer to Amanda once, speaking quietly. "I hope this works. Eli is a whole lot more willing than I thought he would be."

It takes a little while but Eli finally finishes with the papers and hands them back to Amanda. "Alright, Doc, here you go. I think I caught everything except where I have to sign over my firstborn." He gives her a wry grin. "Lets get the tests over with - I don't like the needle part."


Jade bites her lip, still grinning, "Yeah... I'll make sure they leave you something."

Turning, she heads from the barn to take care of the horse.


Reese groans as he hangs up his phone. Sighing, he picks it up again then decides to get up instead. He needed a walk anyway.

Heading out across the main floor, he finds Hope at her temporary desk. "Just got a call from Jack Timble before he headed back to work. Apparently Gunner had paid him a second visit the other day after there was a restraining order. At this rate, he's gonna lose his job for good whether I want that or not." He shakes his head. "You going to see him today?"

Faith

Looking up at Jade but not moving his head only his eyes Dan grins as Jade removes his hat. He could feel the heat on his neck rise that moved into his cheeks.

Bending down to gather the things and put them back into the first aid kid Dan stands as Jade gives him his hat back. Taking it and holding it to his free side he cocks his head a little a small grin forming on his lips.

"I've got alot of work here I need to finish or I would be more than happy to help you. If you stick around long enough though I am sure there will be more times I can help."

Giving a little nod of his head Dan turns to put the first aid kit back away and get back to his chores. If he didnt get this stuff done Mike would be on his case and thats the last thing Dan wanted.

Looking over his shoulder before disappearing into the stall he throws a wink at Jade.

"You have a good rest of the day Jade and I'll see you at dinner, make sure they save me some too eh?"

Giving a chuckle and throwing his stetson back on his head Dan disappears into the stall.

Looking at JT and giving a small smile Amanda nods. Giving bref introductions.

"Eli this is Dr. Timble he is helping me with your sisters case. JT, this is Eli Ryan's brother."

Letting them shake hands and chat for just a moment Amanda just stands there before finally starting up again looking between everyone including Leo.

"Well Eli we cant just do the transfusion right away. I know you said you had the blood but we have a run a few tests on you first just to make sure. It could be dangerous for your sister otherwise."

Taking some paper from the desk they where consent forms and wavers it was only procedures to go through this. And though time was short it had to be done anyways.

"I am going to need you to sign these for you and for you sister please. Than we will take you in to do some test on your blood and if it works out we will prep you. You will have to stay a few days here as you will be weak but you will be fine. All we need to do is pray that God will be on your sisters side."

Amanda gives a sweet smile hope was in her eyes thought there was some fear behind them that this wouldent work she had to keep faith that God would do what was best.

Hope

Jade grins up at Dan. "Thanks."

Just looking at him a moment, she cocks her head, studying his face. In a bold move, she reaches up and takes off his hat. Taking a step back, her grin widens. "You ought to take this off more often."

Giving it back to his chest, she sidles past. "I'm gonna hose down this mare before I put her out in the pasture. Help me out, then I'll owe you twice."


Following Amanda, Eli listens intently, his worry increasing. "Look, when I got the message, it sounded like she was gonna be okay. If I'da known she'd taken a turn for the worse, I woulda flown instead of driven."

This seems to satisfy Leo for the moment, so he backs off with his complaints. "By the way, I'm her ex."

Eli quirks an eyebrow. "Then why are you here?"

"Maybe I still care."

Shaking his head, Eli keeps listening to Amanda. Stopping in the middle of the hall, he swallows hard and is silent for a long moment. "You got the right man." He takes his jacket off and tosses it on a waiting room chair. He had no hesitation whatsoever. "When do we start?"

Leo couldn't help just a little surprise. Eli hadn't even questioned the procedure or asked any questions. It was obvious that he cared much more than Leo had thought.

It isn't two seconds later, when JT appears for his next shift, having rested a few hours. He looks immediately to Amanda with hope. "This him?"

Blood

Giving a laugh and a small shake of his head Dan eyes give a twinkle. Jade, was pretty and smart, she new her stuff around the barn to Dan couldnt help but like that in a woman.

"He just worrys about him. Your dad's little girl he dosnt want to lose you, cant blame him for that one."

Taking out a small bandage Dan puts it over Jade's hand giving her another smile. It was nice helping and caring for someone again.

"There you go, if your lucky he wont even see it now."

Hurrying down the hall twords Leo and the other gental men Amanda could over hear them and new this was the man that was here for Ryan.

Exstending her hand to Eli Amanda gives a bref introduction on who she is.

"Its nice to meet you Eli, and sorry for the confustion. This is Leo, Ryan's boyfriend. From my understanding they have been trying to get a hold of you for a few days now. Eli, Ryan was shot a few days back and she lost alot of blood."

Holding her chart and motioning for Eli and Leo to follow them Amanda talks while she walks.

"Normally this would be a simple blood transfusion and the hope that the healing would come fast. But in your sisters cast it's much much different. Your sister had a very rare blood type. We tryed doing a normal transfustion but her body is rejecting the blood."

Amanda is quiet for a very long moment.

"Eli, unless you have the same rare blood as your sister, she is going to die, it will be painful, and just not good. Thats why we needed you."

Timing

Jade's face is red with embarrassment. "I'm not usually clumsy," she grumbles. "I don't know what happened." She rolls her eyes at herself.

As Dan takes her hand, she shivers just a little. "You don't have to..." She stops, knowing that too often she didn't accept help. "I mean... thanks." She swallows hard, feeling Dan's rough but warm hands. "Just don't put too big a bandage on it or else Dad will be all over me." She laughs. "I'll have enough to talk to him about without this too."


JT grins and nods. "Alright. I'll see you later then after I get a nap. I'll keep my pager on though. The desk has my number."

Giving a little wave, he turns to head to the locker room. It would be several hours before he returned...


A motorcycle engine revs as the bike pulls into the hospital parking lot. It had taken a while to find the way, but after a couple stops to ask around, the destination had been found.

The driver dismounts and pulls off his helmet, the chain from his jeans beltloop to his wallet rattling. Taking off his gloves, he heads inside.

The nurse looks up as the tall man enters, and takes note of his rough looks over his mattted hair and dark eyes. The leather jacket and chaps was enough to make her leery, as was his two-day unshaven face. "Can I help you?"

"Um, yeah. I'm looking for Ryan McKade."

"One moment, please." The nurse turns around, but instead of looking up records, she picks up the phone, dialing a different nurses station near the room where Ryan was. "Yes, please let me speak with Dr. Fuller." She glances over her shoulder until she hears Amanda's voice. "Yes," she responds quietly. "There's a suspicious looking man here to see Ryan. I thought it best if you spoke with him before I told him where the room was."

Eli leans on the counter and picks up a pen to fidget with. He wasn't sure about the hushed tone of the nurse that he heard. but opted not to react.

Right around the corner, Leo is just returning after talking to Axel about the phone number he'd called for Ryan's brother. Hearing this newcomer ask about Ryan, Leo was a bit skeptical. This guy looked like someone from the street races, but he'd never seen him before. "Excuse me... are you looking for Ryan?"

Eli turns, an eyebrow quirked. "Yeah."

"And you are?"

"Elijah McKade, Ryan's brother. And you?"

Leo's eyes narrow. "Finally decided to show up huh?"

Eli frowns. "Now what's that supposed to mean?"

"You were called days ago! And you only come now?!"

"Well excuse me! Who are you? You the one who called me?"

"No. But you got some timing, you know that?"

"Cool it, man. All I want is to see my sister."

Leo grits his teeth. "Then you better hurry up."

Eli's pulse quickens. "Is she bad?"

"Yeah. No thanks to you taking your time."

Eli was getting fed up. "Look, punk, I don't need your-" He stops as he sees the woman doctor appear. "Hey I'm here to see Ryan McKade. I-"

"Need to do more than see her," Leo retorts.

"Who is this guy?" Eli asks in annoyance. "I'm just here to see my sister. I been on the road for three days and it's been on awful trip so just cut the crap and somebody tell me what's going on."

Coffee

Looking over the one stall he had started cleaning out Dan gives a smile leaning on the shovel. He had, had a nice time today. It certinly was a while since the last time he smiled like he did today. Even the ride back with BJ singing at the top of his lungs was fun. Dan liked kids and would watch BJ anytime he was asked to.

"Maybe your dad just wanted to spend time with you? Anyways I liked BJ he's a good kid so I didnt mind."

Turning to go back to his work Dan jumps hearing the loud noise and than Jade's cry for a moment Dan is thrown back in time to a horribl car crash. The screams, the glass, the smell of blood. It was the worst day of lift when not only had he lose freedom, but he also lost something more prescuse and dear to him. Compared to that jail had been a cake walk.

Giving a shake of his head Dan brings him back to this time and day. That had been a long time ago, he had changed his life, and found a stronger power to help him, he needed to keep it together no matter how much the past haunted him sometimes.

Grabbing the first aid kit quickly Dan jumps over the small lip in the stall and it by Jade's side. Gently taking her hand and giving a grin.

"Here, let me take a look. Have to make sure there is nothing in there before we clean and bandage it."

Letting out a long sigh as she watches Leo leave Amanda shakes her head a sad look in her eyes. Time was running out for one young woman and she could only lift up a quick prayer that if this was God's will Ryan would not suffer.

Turning back to JT again Amanda gives a small smile giving a shake of her head.

"I should be ok for now. You go home and get some sleep JT. You have had a long night."

Letting out a small sigh Amanda contiues.

"I'll be here all day to keep in case something happens. If you wanna stop back a little bit before your normal shift maybe we can go and grab a cup of coffee and go over Ryan's charts. I'd like to have another Dr. on this one with me to help. Its just with this case its so touchy."

Cut

Leo is pacing the hall back and forth, back and forth. But no one seemed to know what was going on inside the room, or at least they weren't willing to tell him what it was if they did. He might have broken up with Ryan, but that didn't mean he wouldn't worry about her. Just because he was upset, didn't mean he wanted her to die.

Finally, two of the doctors emerge and Leo stops his pacing. Looking at Amanda, he hears her explanation, his heart sinking. He looks to JT as if hoping for another outcome, but JT only shakes his head grimly.

Leo swallows hard and glances back to Amanda. "Um... no... Axel found a number of her brother in Florida but he had to leave a message and hasn't heard back. And... I think she has another brother in jail somewhere."

JT runs a hand over his face and exchanges a look with Amanda. "Keep trying, Leo. Right now that's Ryan's only hope."

"How...how long does she have?"

JT purses his lips. "Not long. Every second counts now."

Leo's mind races. He had to talk to Axel again to see where he'd called. And he had to... do... something, anything. He didn't know what, but he had to figure this out. Spinning on his heel, he takes off down the hall, skidding around the corner.

JT sighs as he watches him go. "I don't know about this one... when family can't be found right off the bat, lots of times we can't find them at all." He glances to Amanda. "I'm supposed to be going home, but if you want me to stick around for a while longer, I can."


"So why'd you ditch the cowboy?" Jade gives Mick an inquisitive look as they ride slowly back to the ranch.

Mick raises his eyebrows. "What? I wanted to ride with you."

"There was something else behind your eyes," Jade persists. "What was it?"

"Nothing." Mick laughs. "Can't I go riding with my daughter?"

"Without your own saddle? Leaving BJ with Dan?"

Mick shrugs. "Lapse in judgment? I don't know. Let's just get back, shall we?"

Jade smirks a little, but lets it drop. "Are any of the bunks open?"

"Yeah, but you can stay in the house with us if you like."

A smile comes to Jade's lips. "That sounds even better."

Getting back to the ranch, they're far later than Dan and BJ, and meet them in the barn where Mick hands the horse back off to Dan, and goes to get the apples where BJ can help him again. Jade wanders into the barn with the mare to crosstie her and unsaddle.

"Thanks for riding out with me," she mentions to Dan, looking down the aisle to him. "I would have gone for another race back, but apparently my Dad decided to have some weird bee in his bonnet, er, hat." She laughs as she finishes untacking, hefting the saddle back into the tack room. Just as she's stepping inside, the cinch slips down to drag on the floor and she doesn't see it. Accidentally walking on it, the saddle stops short but she doesn't. Stumbling forward, the saddle gets dropped and she reaches out to the doorframe quickly to keep from falling. The movement is too fast though, and she winds up hitting a splinter of wood, slicing the palm of her hand. She lets out a little cry and grabs her hand as a bit of blood trickles down. "Of all the..." She groans at her own clumsiness. "Oh that was good."

Family

Hearing the sharp whistle from the masheans from down the way Amanda wasts no time moving around the counter and heading quickly to Ryan's room.

Pushing past Leo, Amanda jumps right in thankful for JT's extra hands. It was always nice having another dr around in case there was something she over looked.

After many hours when hope almost seemed lost Amanda stops and whips her forehead. Leting out a long breath she had been holding Amanda looks over Ryan once again before looking back to JT the look on her face was grim.

"For now she is, thank you for the help JT. I need to talk with Leo. If you would like to come along to know whats going on I dont mind."

Turning to head out of the room she had to talk to Leo. It was very important and really it couldn't wait.

"Leo? Its good to see you again I just wish it was under better conditions."

Experiencing her hand to him Amanda gives it a shake and trys to force a smile thought her eyes still held much behind them.

"Ryan is stable for the time being. but its as I had feared her body is rejecting the blood. Slowly and painfuly her body is going to shut down, her organs cant functions right with out blood. Anyone will be able to see her though we will limit the amount of time. Ryan is going to be in and out of contentiousness. We will do all we can to keep her comfortable but it really wont be a pretty sigh."

Amanda takes in a deep breath before letting out. Just the thought of what would happen to Ryan if they didnt find her family made her cringe. She hatted knowing anyone would have to go through that. They would do all they could do for Ryan but it was the inevatable.

"There really is no way of saying how long she had depending on how her body reacts but I am giving her a month. You will be able to tell as the days go on how sick she is getting unless we can find her family. Did you have any luck leo?"

Emergency

Leo spins around, his heart leaping into his throat. "Ryan? Ryan!" In an instant, he's back in the hall, yelling for help. He didn't know what was wrong, but something was.

JT is just heading down the hall, ready to go home after working a double-shift, when he hears the cry for help. Immediately on alert, he jogs to the room, almost running into Amanda and several nurses. Most likely they had enough help, but he lends a hand anyway, while ordering Leo to stay out of the way.

Working alongside Amanda without much elbow room, JT gives directions to the nurses, but follows Amanda's lead, since it is her patient. Sweat runs down the side of his face as they work to revive Ryan. He never liked losing anyone, no matter the situation.

Finally, finally they get a pulse. JT lets out the breath he's been holding, and steps back, giving Amanda more room. "Is she stabilizing?"

Leo paces the hall, chewing on his thumbnail as he waits.

More problems

Letting out a sigh Ryan watchs Leo. She didnt want him to go but she didnt know how to make him stay. Her stomach churned, and she felt all messed up.

Continuing to watch Leo a sudden pain hits Ryan's stomach making her gasp for air just a little as she can feel her heart start racing. Something wasnt right, it felt terribly wrong. Opening her mouth to say something nothing comes out as the moniter in the room start to beep a little faster. Fear races through Ryan's eyes as she trys to gasp for words. Finally getting a whisper out.

"L....Le..o...get h...he...lp.."

Leaning her head back Ryan's eyes roll back into her head as the monters let out a syron sounds as the flat line, a sound that could strike fear into a heart of stone.

Giving a smile as he his mounts his own horse and ties it up Dan takes in a long deep breath. This air had a little bite to it but it was still nice.

Seeing Mick and BJ Dan throws a small wave just staying quiet and letting Mick and his daughter talk know everything was none of his never mind.

Hearing Mick's question to him Dan smiles and gives a nod walking over to BJ who was struggling to carry the basket alone.

"Sure I can do that."

Bending down in front of the small boy Dan gives a smile.

"Hey there Little man. I see your doing a good job there with you muscles but I feel left out can I help you?"

Smiling up at Dan BJ smiles.

"You can help so you don feel lef out than you can have some apple pie too."

Dan reachs out and ruffles Dan's hair before lifting the basket and helping BJ leading him to the truck.

Apple tree dwellers

Leo bites his lip, now fighting his own emotions. He really did like Ryan... but he didn't know how to get past this.

"Alright, well..." Without knowing what else to do, Leo stands up and aims for the door. "Get well soon. Everybody misses you at the shop."


Jade laughs out loud as she races beside Dan. Daring to turn her head and watch him ride, she knows he isn't pushing his horse, and neither is she. It was more fun not to be a cutthroat.

Gaining speed, it doesn't take long at all until the far bend where they have to slow. Pulling the mare down to a lope, jog and finally a walk, Jade catches her breath, laughing again. "Ohhh I needed that." She throws Dan a grin. "Nothing like spending your energy on a horse. I miss it out here."

Taking a deep breath of the fresh air, she urges her mount forward, confident of where she was. Within minutes, they came upon the small apple tree grove. Jade slows to a stop and dismounts, grabbing a rope and halter to tie her horse to a nearby fence.

Ducking under a couple low branches, she finally spots Mick and BJ in a clearing. "Hey! Quit stealing those ranch apples!"

Mick snaps his head up from looking in the bucket that BJ was "helping" him carry. A look of bewilderment crosses his face, and then a smile of surprise. "Jade?"

Unable to contain her energy, she gives a little squeal and runs to him, to receive a big hug. "Mmmm hi, Dad."

Mick chuckles and swings her around. "Hey, babe. What are you doing here?"

"Glad to see you too," Jade retorts sarcastically, but she can't help a giggle. "I wanted to surprise you."

"Well, you did that." Mick slings his arm over her shoulder, and only then realizes that Dan is there too. "Don't tell me you forgot how to get out here," he teases Jade.

She elbows him. "Of course not. Dan was just being my bodyguard."

Mick raises his eyebrows. "For...?"

"Evil apple tree dwellers. They resemble a cross between a wolf and a crab apple. Ugly critters."

Mick laughs and shakes his head. "Now come on, why are you here?"

"Vacation."

"Vacation? What about school?"

Jade bites her lip. "Can we talk about this later."

Mick stops walking and hands off the task of throwing out bad apples to BJ before looking back at his daughter. "Don't tell me. You changed your mind."

"Maybe?"

"I bet your grandmother is thrilled about that."

"I'd rather face the apple tree dwellers."

Mick tries hard not to laugh, and finally just shakes his head. "Well, I'm not happy you went that far just to turn around, but I can't blame you for not wanting to go to that girl's school." He sighs and gives her ponytail a tug. "We'll talk more later. How long you staying?"

"Um... that's to be determined?"

Mick's eyes narrow. There was a much bigger story here, but it wasn't one to try and go over while under the apple trees. "Alright... like I said, we'll talk later." He glances to Dan. "Hey, you wouldn't mind taking BJ back in the truck would you? I'll take the horse back."

I guess

Ryan felt at a loss for words witch was something that didnt happen with her much. But she was, anything she thought she could say just didnt feel like it would help or even change Leo's mind. She did understand why Leo was upset, she probably would be too.

"I..."

Ryan choaks on her own words just not knowing what to say some sweat rolling down her face. She wanted to turn back time and ask Leo out on her own, her heart hurt so much. The hot flashes she was experiencing seemed to fit her mood.

"I guess thats...thats best than since I cant do anything else to change your mind. I hope sometime we can try again. I'd...like that."

Closing her eyes for a moment Ryan fights the tears the want to come and turn into a headache. She didnt know what else to say, or do she had never delt with this before.

Trowing Jade a wink at her challenge Dan was ready. He new the path pretty well, and it was a safe one though caution would still be needed.

"I was born ready, I hope you are."

Taking off with Jade a smile flashs across Dan's face as the wind rushs over him. Catching up with Jade her keeps the same pase as her not moving ahead but not falling behind eather. It wasnt about winning to him, but just spending time with someone and having a break from work.

Better to be apart

Leo sighs and slouches in the chair. This conversation was inevitable, but that didn't make it any more enjoyable.

"Sorry - I guess I meant the guys at the shop too. Just thought if you were lonely...." He stops and shakes his head. "Just forget it," he mumbles.

Waiting a moment, he leans forward to steady his elbows on his knees. "You've said enough times you're sorry. I guess I believe it, so you can stop. Saying it more times doesn't help any."

His eyes roam the room as he pauses again. "I don't know if I really believe you fell for me or not. You know I always liked you, but I like a lot of girls. That's why I get razzed so bad. The problem is, you never would have given me a second glance, had there not been a bet involved. Whether you care now or not, isn't the point. It was all based on a bet for money. I can't just forget that happened."

He shrugs lamely. "It's not that easy for me. I don't want to be enemies... I don't like being enemies with anybody. But maybe this just wasn't meant to be, ya know? All my life, I've been looking in from the outside. I'm the clown, the goofoff, the idiot in the crowd that makes people laugh and gives them something to poke fun at. It's always been that way. Then I thought I finally had something that was real. This time it was me with the hot chick under my arm and I could say "hands off, she's mine." And then..."

More emotion came through than intended, and Leo swallows hard. "Then I found out it was built on nothing. You said yes just to prove a point, not because you wanted to."

Shifting his weight, he finds Ryan's eyes again. "I'm not saying never. Just... I think it would be better to be apart for a while. Maybe then if you still care, I'll know it's real."


Finding the right tack with a bit of help from Dan, Jade is glad she'd worn her boots today so she didn't have to go change. Saddling up only took a few minutes, and in no time at all, both riders are headed out of the ranch yard. Jade knew which way to go, and knew it would be easier to go around several of the pastures instead of having to open gates along the way. And the longer route provided more time for a nice run as well.

Once she was confident the mare was warmed up, she glances over to Dan, a challenging glint in her eye. "Alright, hotshot. Let's see what you got."

Leaning forward just a little, she presses her heels into the mare's sides and springs into a run. This path was a smooth one and Jade knew it was a safe route for a nice gallop.

I'm trying

"Why would I want to call a truce and walk away when I like you Leo?"

A tiny bit of hurt was hinted in Ryan's voice as she talked she new what Leo was saying and she new he was hurt but she has said she was sorry what else could she do?

"I'm trying here Leo to make things right, After I really started to fall for you I tryed making it right and thats what I was doing the night I was shot too. Trying to make things right. I said I was sorry I dont know what else to do to make you see I am sorry and I do like you."

Shaking her head Ryan turns her head away from Leo as she looks out the window for a long moment. If one looked close Ryan looked like she was sweating, was she having a hot flash? She didnt know but she felt awfley warm.

"As for my pals they arnt my pals or my friends. The only real people I even considered friends were you and the guys at the shop. So if your not going to stay than dont bother telling anyone to come and see me."

Blushing just a little Jess looks up into Axel's eyes. This point in life is what she had been waiting for and now that she had found it she off\ten wondered how people could go through life without it.

Not saying anything else Jess just looks across the table at Axel the smile staying on her face. No more words needed to be said for Axel could see deeper and new before words said it how much she cared and loved him.

A grin form on Dan's own face knowing Jade new her was around just fine. Shifting his weaght a little he eyes a few of the horses he had left. He needed a break anyways it should hurt to take a short one before work would it?

"I do believe that was a challange, and one I am willing to take."

Walking with Jade to the tak room Dan helps her with the items for the horse she wanted before going back for his own and gettering ready. Once Dan was ready he waited to make sure Jade was as well.

Last one there...

Leo turns back around, his eyes a little dim. Sighing deeply, he comes back over to the bed and sinks down into a chair, just looking at Ryan for a moment. It was obvious she was trying... but what was the point?

"Look, Ryan... I just wanted to come say hi. I... didn't want to get into anything else. If you're lonely, I'll let some of your pals know and have them come up to pay you a visit but... as far as my own visits go... I don't really see the point in trying too hard here. You, um... gave me a good time." He purses his lips, obviously sorry. "But when it's all over... I could have done without the humiliation and embarrassment. So... how about we just call a truce and walk away?"


Axel smiles a little and pulls Jess' hand up to his lips to give it a soft kiss. "I'd like you to go with me... at the very least, I'll have something pretty to look at while I wait."


Jade's eyes lock with Dan's for a long moment, and she bites her lip as a grin forms. "Far field, huh? The east one?"

Folding her arms, she glances around Dan to some of the horse stalls. "I don't feel much like walking, but I do feel like a ride. I'd say after we saddle up, last one there has to help peel all those apples."

Lonely

Ryan could feel the awkwardness in the air, and new what Leo was saying about the other woman. She had been a pawn to use to make Ryan jealous, and it had worked. Seeing that Leo was walking away again Ryan wanted to say more even if she didnt know how. Letting out a small chuckle she replys.

"Bother me?"

Ryan turns off the tv and throws the remote on the table next to the bed before laying back a little.

"I'm not exactly going anyway, I am stuck here for goodness knows how long."

Lifting her arm up and motioning around the room Ryan gives a small shakes of her head rolling her eyes a little not at Leo but at herself.

"..and its not exactly like I have a line of people waiting to see me eather. You can stay longer if you want, I'd like you to anyways. Kind of lonely here."

Looking up at Axel Jess gives a tine smile and a small sigh. She just wanted to try and help Axel all she could and it really was the only thing she could do for him.

"I know..just hoped I guess that the motion would maybe help some how."

Just holding His hand for a long moment Jess looks at there hands intertwined with each other.

"When you go to see Misty if you...want me to come along I would be more than happy too.'

Looking back at the pretty young face that stared back at him Dan could feel a little heat creep up his neck. Mick had mentioned he had a daughter and a son, but he never said he daughter was very pretty.

Taking his stetson off and holding it in one hand Dan holds out his other to meet Jade's shaking it firmly.

"Names Dan and its very nice to meet you Jade."

Thinking for a long moment Dan put the hat back on top of his head looking down at the ground for a moment and than back up at Jade.

"Last time I checked you Dad was out helping BJ in the far field gather some apples from some fresh apple pie. If you would like I would be more than happy to walk over there with you to get him. I need to ask Mick something anyways."

Dan wore a pleasant smile as an offer of friendship knowing Jade didnt venture to the ranch much and things had changed a little since the last time she was here.

Unsaid

Leo ambles a little closer, his motions a bit awkward. He doesn't say much, letting Ryan lead any conversation. When she mentions the other girl though, his eyes drift to the floor, then back up again. He gives her a lame shrug.

"She's um... not the new girl." All he can do is shrug again. "She... never was. I was just... she..." He clams up, knowing Ryan knew well enough to figure it out on her own. His face gets just a little red.

"I just... wanted to come say hi, I guess. Um... I don't want to bother you." He turns around, debating whether or not to leave. There was way to much going unsaid.


Axel mulls over Jess' suggestion. "Guess it can't hurt to see if Carson can hook me up there. I wouldn't mind another option and I know I can trust the guys over at the Elite."

He takes a sip of his water, continuing to listen and he nods. "Yeah... I know what you mean. Ryan was stupid, but... even so, forgiveness has to come in there somewhere, otherwise everyone will just stay miserable."

Glancing down as Jess takes his hand, he just looks at it for a moment, then reaches over with his other hand to cover hers, stopping the motion. "I can't feel it anymore," he explains quietly. He gives her hand a squeeze. "Thanks, though."


Jade whips around at the strange voice behind her. Looking up at Dan, she lifts her eyebrows, then blinks. "Ma'am? You must be the new guy Dad told me about."

Tucking a stubborn strand of hair behind her ear, she stretches out her hand. "I'm Jade. Mick's my dad, I was just looking for him. He doesn't know I'm here though, so I'm not surprised I can't find him. I... did forget your name though."

New Face

Sitting up in bed her arm still bandaged Ryan flipped mindlessly through the channels. There really wasnt anything good on and she hated being in the room and told not to go anywhere. She wanted to be outside, driving working on cars...and...laughing with Leo.

As if on cue or planed to have a though and action lined up Ryan hears a noise as the door and looks up to see Leo. A smile grin forms on Ryan's face as she gives a nod.

"Its safe as long as you dont mind the smell of flowers, and being a little cold. Personally, I'd take the smell of burning oil and grease over this."

Letting out a small sigh and leaning back in the bed Ryan turns lets out a small sigh before looking at Leo again. She felt a little awkward not really knowing all of what to say.

"Not that I mind it, but I'm...surprised to see you here. Happy you came, but surprised. How have you been Leo? Has the new girl been treating you right? I'd hate to have to clock her one."

Taking a sip of her own OJ Jess looks at Axel across the room. It had been an early morning that didnt have much sleep the night before, just one of those nights that wernt so good and every little noise bothered her. But Hearing Axel's voice and getting the chanse to come to breakfest with him was something she hadnt wanted to turn down.

"You know, for a while when I was with Carson he would talk about Misty his feonsay. I always new he loved her and they were ment to be together but he told me she was quite smart in the medical field."

Looking down again Jess gives a smile for the memories she had. It was before Axel, to right when she was getting to know him. If it wasnt for Carson she never would of met Axel and known what real love was like.

"Maybe you should go see her. I mean I know you have been to Dr. before and everything but maybe she could use her smarts and figure something out to help. Its worth a shot at this point right?"

Taking a bit of her food she new was going cold Jess lets the silence linger for a long moment thinking. Axel had given her a short version of what was going on so she new the fine line but anything more she didnt know.

"Yeah, but whats being said I guess it makes me wonder if Ryan was there would it still be said or not? Seems to me like the reson she got shot to start with was to try and stop this whole thing for Leo's sake. I guess I'd want someone to have my back if stuff like that was going around too."

Looking up at Axel again Jess gives a small smile as she reaches over the table to give his hand a rub like she had many a time before.

"Not that I am saying what she did was right to start with at all, its just I dont know I guess I feel bad for them both. Do you know how Ryan is doing?"

"Whoa, easy there girl."

Holding the horses still Dan files the nail down not really paying to much attachen to anything else. Alot of hands had off today doing other things so that left Dan with alot of work. Not that he minded much it was nice to keep him mind off things.

Hearing a voice break through the quiet Dan trys to keep the horse steady. Not bothering to yell back so he didnt startle the more.

Finally finishing up and hearing the soft steps pass Dan pokes his head out from the stall in time to see the younger woman poke her head into the tak room door he had left open a little. Stepping outside the stall Dan new there would be no way he could let her know he was there and not scair her.

"Excuse me Ma'am could I help you?"

Stir crazy

Left alone once again, Gunner just sits for a long while. Refusing supper, he eventually drifts into a restless sleep, depressed and without much hope for tomorrow. He felt weak... he felt embarrassed... he felt guilty.


Once Con returns to TJY with Hope, he goes to let Reese know what happened. It's agreed to keep the whole thing quiet for now. Unless someone asked where Gunner was, they would work around it until a better time, or until they knew more.


The next day was a dark and gray one. Rain poured down, odd for such a dry land. The air was warm, but damp, making it seem chillier than it was.


Leo wanders down the hospital hall, having turned around twice, then come back. He wasn't sure why he was here. He was still upset. But a part of him must have cared... at least he figured that was the only reason he'd shown up here today.

Sighing, he tucks his hands in the pockets of his cargo pants and heads to the room again. This time he gets to the door and knocks lightly, cocking his head so he can see inside. Spotting Ryan sitting up in bed, he eyes her a little warily. "Safe to come in?"


"...so I don't know. I can't pay for surgery and even if I could, it might not do any good." Axel shrugs and leans back in the booth at the diner, looking across at Jess. "But I'm running out of money without having a job... so I gotta either find a solution or go looking for work I can do, bu even that's gonna be hard to find."

A mid-morning breakfast had brought them together today, even though they'd just had supper together the evening before.

"I guess it's not bad I haven't been in the shop anyway though... sounds like that whole Ryan and Leo thing is going around and I'm just as glad I don't have to listen to it."


Gunner picks at the toast on his plate and finally shoves it away. Getting up, he paces, his bare feet sounding on the tile floor. Giving a groan of frustration, he turns, increasing the circles he walked. He felt like a caged animal. He wanted his astronomy books. He wanted a window. He wanted his laptop. He wanted to write. But for now, silence was the only thing keeping him company, and he felt as if he would go insane... and it hadn't even been twenty-four hours.

Running his hands through his hair, he finally drops to the floor to do some pushups, trying to spend his energy.


"Helloooo." Jade pokes her head into the barn, looking around, but sees no one but the horses. Smirking, she wanders in, leaning into one of the stalls to talk to a mare. "Did they all leave, or what, hmm?" She reaches out to stroke the velvety cheek. "Yeah, you're a pretty girl, aren't you. Seen my dad around, or do I have to go hunt him down?"

Obviously not receiving a response, Jade sighs and aims down the dirt-floored aisle. "Dad?" she calls. No answer. She hadn't checked the dining hall yet but it was after lunchtime, so she'd assumed someone would be out here.

Almost giving in to go to the main house, she looks in one more spot. Finding the tackroom door open, she looks in. "Anybody home?"

The Shadow

Looking at Gunner with sympathy and understanding for his own free time Hope gives a small nod and a pat to his hand.

"I'll keep your stuff on the roof waiting for when you return and I promise Reese wont get to it."

Standing Hope makes her way to the door before turning to Gunner again giving a small smile.

"Remember your not alone, and if you need anything, even just a friend to sit with you I am only a phone call away and I will never turn my back on you. See you soon Gunner."

With that Hope turns and leaves the door giving a small sigh and a nod to Con. She didnt know if he wanted to say goodbye as well.

Returning the quick kiss to Kyle Alice slides over in the seat to let Kyle in. His warmth entering the jeep with him and filling her with such an energy it was a nice feeling after the last few days.

Taking a bit of her doughnut and a sip of her pop Alice just listens to Kyle as the smile on her face grows even more hearing what the plans for today were.

"I think checking it our first is a good idea. At least than you can say you tryed."

Taking Kyle's free hand in her own Alice gives it a gentil squeeze.

"I'll be with you every step of the way. The shadow follows on. Thank you."

Admit

Gunner lifts his eyes as Hope approaches, but simply shrugs then shakes his head. "Nah... what could I ask for anyway? Nothing in or out of this place, you know that. This whole thing got started because I wanted something, remember? I better cut it out before it really gets me in trouble."

Letting one leg slide down, he leans his head against the wall. "This nightmare is my own. Just make sure nobody gets my stuff up on the roof of TJY... I got a telescope and books up there. But do me a favor and don't tell Reese... that was one thing he didn't know about."


Kyle grins and leans closer to the open window, coming to Alice's eye level. "You think I woulda gotten you a donut without boston cream?"

His grin widens as he moves in to steal a light kiss to her lips. "Move over so I can crowd your space."

Joining Alice in the jeep, Kyle passes her a donut and a can of pop. "Figured I'd need all the pep I could get this morning... since I'm going to go see Erik." He flips the top on his mountain dew and takes a long sip, scanning the outside for a long moment. "I'm gonna see what he's got and what the band is like before I say no... or yes."

He turns his head to look at Alice again. "I, um... thought a lot last night and... I think maybe it's time for me to admit where my passion still lies."

Boston

The tip to the hospetal is quiet as Hope knows what was to come. She had sent people to this place before for there safty, for there health but it was never fun and it was a long hard road.

Going through the motions that Hope had been through many times she sticks close to Gunner making sure he had the best room, and care that was available. This was more than just a case this was a friend too.

Finally it is time to go and though she would rather not Hope new they had to. But she would be back soon. Looking up at the dr hope searchs his eyes for a long moment. She hadnt delt with this hospetal much before so she was a little werry but she would trust Reese new this place.

"I want to know everything that goes on with him and about his care. If anything happens anytime you are to contact me. I am his primary Psychiatrist outside of here and I have the need to know. Thank you for everything you will be doing for him."

Turning to the room where Gunner was Hope enters and makes her way across the bear floor. Sitting down on the edge of the bed she lets out a sigh.

"Con and I our heading out now Gunner. I'll be back tomorrow to check in on you. Did you need anything before I go?"

Looking up from her computer as the jeep started to shake Alice could of guess who it was. A big smile spreads across her face as she looks out the back window and gives a shake of her head.

It was good to see Kyle smiling today even if she didnt know the reason. He had a nice smile and it was important to her to see it.

Rolling down the window as Kyle comes around to her side Alice gives a chuckle never tiring of Kyle or of his antics that matched her own.

"Mountain Dew and Donuts....mmmmm..."

Alice thinks for a long moment before giving Kyle another side long glance.

"If you have Boston cream in there than come on in and lets feast together."

Breakfast

Gunner doesn't respond at first, but numbly follows to Con's truck, sliding into the back seat. He sits with his gaze out the window, fighting the burning behind his eyes. "Do with me what you have to," he mutters in defeat. He knew they would take him somewhere other than TJY and other than home. "Just have someone take care of my cat."

Con quirks an eyebrow as he turns his truck around. "I didn't think the apartments where you lived allowed pets."

"They don't." A small grin quirks the edge of Gunner's mouth.

Con rolls his eyes. No wonder Gunner always got himself into trouble. "Always gotta buck the system, don't you?"

"Always."


Three souls make their way across town to the far corner. A hospital comes into view. Had not the purpose been so dim, it would have seemed cheerful. They are greeted warmly with those trained to handle these kinds of visits. Unfortunately, these doctors performed these tasks every day.

An hour slips by... then two. It felt a torture to an already-tortured soul. One minute, Gunner wanted to stay, and the next, he wanted to flee. During the initial evaluation, it was only Con's muscle that held him there. Now it was a closed door...

Gunner sits on the bed, his back leaned into the corner of the room. His arms were wrapped around his knees, his legs up to his chest. He felt... numb. The room was stark. A small table was at one side with a chair. A lamp sits on an otherwise-bare nightstand. A narrow closet in the corner held two more sets of clothes, simple and clean. He could keep nothing of his own.

His bare toes curl down into the mattress and he grits his teeth, half of him wanting to run full-force into the door and bolt. Logic argued with him to stay.

Outside in the hall, a doctor's voice mingles with Con's and Hope's...

"You can let him know you're leaving, if you wish. Tomorrow we will have another evaluation and... we'll go from there."


Alice's red jeep begins to rock back and forth, back and forth. Kyle stands on the bumper, shifting his weight and bouncing to make it sway until he sees Alice look out the window at him. For the first time in quite a while, his eyes are shining brightly. He holds up his hands. In one, he holds a bag of donuts, and in the other, two cans of mountain dew.

Cocking his head, he jumps down from the bumper and wanders to the window, waiting for it to be rolled down. "I need sugar this morning... how about joining me?"

Alone

Hope wants to comment back to Gunner but she new better than to do so right now. Just giving a soft smile Hope does her best to try and keep Gunner calm and thinking right. Seeing Con go around to him the other way gives Hope a small bit of comfort knowing her was there. As he takes Gunner's arm and pulls him back over the rail Hope lets out a sigh of releaf that she didnt even relize she was holding till now.

As Gunner stops in front of her Hope lays a gentil warm hand on his arm her own heart breaking on the inside. She hated doing this to someone, anyone but it was what was best and she new it.

"No Gunner, Reese was wrong your a very strong person and thats why you didn't jump when you had the chance."

Wrapping her arm around his wast Hope walks with Gunner back to Con's car before getting inside with him.

"We are gonna get you help Gunner and I am going to be with you every step of the way. I wont let you do this alone."

Cherished

Gunner's eyes narrow slightly and he looks back to Hope. A terrible battle was raging within him. He knew exactly what she was doing, and therefore he wanted to retaliate. Yet another piece of him wanted the help that she was offering. He wanted to jump... he didn't want to jump.

Even though he didn't show it, he really did like Hope. She was nice and even though he said he couldn't trust her, a part of him did. He knew who she was and what she was about, and he knew that she would never deceive him. But this... today... he didn't know what he wanted more: to live or to die.

"I've put people through worse," he responds. "I've killed people, remember?" He studies the ravine again. "Maybe if I go today, it'll be an even trade."

While Gunner talks, Con takes the cue from Hope and ever so slowly walks with her, swinging wide to get around to the other side.

Gunner moves a little closer to the edge and a small rock tumbles down, pulled by gravity. He grins again. "Can't be that bad, right? Better than wasting half my life searching for something that doesn't exist. Better than living, knowing I'm the one that killed my own past." He makes another small move, and for several moments, silence rules. But it gives Con just enough time.

Gunner feels the large hand on his shoulder and he swallows hard without turning around. "Don't let me fall, Con," he whispers.

Con doesn't hear, but he takes the opportunity of calm to slip an arm around Gunner's chest and gently pull him back, helping him over the guardrail again. Con's pulse is racing and he looks to Hope for help again. "C'mon, Gunner..." he prompts quietly. "Let's go."

Gunner's feet drag and he stops in front of Hope, not willing to look her in the eye. "I guess Reese was right... not only did I waste my time, but I'm to weak to accept the truth when I finally find it."

Con's heart aches for his friend, and he only wished there was something he could do. But the only thing they could do now was head to Northside where hopefully, Gunner could get the help he needed.


Jason takes in Katie's kiss, feeling as if it were a breath of fresh air to his lungs. His emotions surge through him, free and finally released. It was peace, it was love, it was gratefulness.

Wrapping his arms tighter around her, he draws her even closer, letting the kiss linger. Leaning back until his head is on the mattress, he lets Katie lean on his chest, embracing her with the feelings he had been keeping from her.

Thanks for being you, too.

His eyes closed, his fingers raked through her soft hair.

Can we just stay in this moment forever?

He would if he could. It was these moments that he had learned should be cherished.

No one else

Looking across the bridge at Gunner Hope's heart thumps. She would of hoped Gunner was smarter than that but her own heart raced anyways. Fear is what she held right now, for a coworker, a human being and a friend. Though she was scaired Hope stayed as calm as she could.

"Gunner, I wont turn around and I wont leave. You think you cant trust me, well than I know I am doing my job right. I care, and thats why I am here and I do what I wanna do."

Walking across the road slowly Hope starts and than stops again not turning around but motioning for Gunner to follow.

"If you jump Gunner I will have to see something I really dont want too. Something that will haunt me for the rest of my life. I dont think you really want to put me through that do you?"

Hope takes a quick glance to Con hoping to relay her message to him. She wanted to try and get Gunner to back up on his own but if it didnt work she wanted Con close to grab him.

Entering the room and being pulled into Jason's lap Katie can feel the emotions increase being pulled from Jason and feeding her. Only making what she felt herself stronger as she nuzzled her face into his neck for a moment.

I miss you a lot too J. Thank you for the gift you have given back to me. If you even need a little break again, just ask me.

Receiving the kiss from Jason and the the flower the smile on Katie's face grew even more as her emotions seemed to overflow.

Thank you J for always just being you, and no one else.

Bringing the flower to her noise Katie gives it a sniff enjoying the sweet smell. Than lowering the flower Katie looks deep into the eyes she always got lost in. Finally leaning in her lips touch his with enough emotions to match with how much she really did miss him. Her one arm finding his back and the other his head.

Not scared

Reese's jaw tightens a little. He knew what Hope meant, and it wasn't good. "You know... some of my agents have been through a lot... look at Jason... Katie... Scott... we got Agency guys on our hands with problems... but this... I just don't know what to do anymore. Pretty soon I'm gonna be the one needing to talk to you."

He manages a wry grin for Hope. Heaving a deep sigh, he leans over the cubicle wall to pick up the phone. "Hey, Con? Yeah... at Gunner's cubicle now please."

Con is quick to join them, his eyes full of question. "What is it?"

"I need you to find Gunner and..." Reese looks to Hope for reassurance. "...and take him to the Northside Hospital."

"Northside?" Con isn't sure he heard correctly. "Isn't that-"

"Yeah." Reese nods. "And take Hope with you, please."

"Where is he?"

"I don't know. He took off just a couple minutes ago."

Con lifts an eyebrow. "How do I find him?"

"You're the tracker."

Con sighs. "Alright." He turns to Hope. "Sounds like I might need you. Come on, we'll take my truck."

It takes an hour, but together, they're finally able to track down Gunner. When they do, it only proves Reese's worry was not an overreaction. Con pulls his truck over onto the shoulder of the road, staring out across the bridge. "We better get over to him." He gives Hope a sidelong glance. "I don't know if he'll listen to me."

Gunner didn't know how long he'd been there, but the more he thought and the more he let his mind absorb his guilt, the longer he stayed. But now he was on the outside of the guardrail, looking down into the ravine. He had never before felt so empty.

"Gunner?"

He rolls his eyes as he hears Con's voice. Turning his head, he rolls his eyes again, seeing Hope. "Just in time for the show, guys." He stares back down again. "One, two, three go."

Con's heart skips a beat. "Gunner stop."

A grin forms on Gunner's lips. "If anybody should be scared, it should be me, and I'm not, so... you might wanna just get back to the office and file some paperwork or something. Oh yeah and, my job's opening so if there's any hotshots down at the station who want a job, they can have at it."

Con swallows hard, scared for his friend. He lowers his voice. "Hope... I don't know what to do."


Jeff nods to Katie. "I'm okay. I'll still be here when you get back."


Jason is waiting in the bunk, still sitting on the edge of the bed when Katie comes.
It's open, come on in.
Smiling at her, he gestures for her to come closer and pulls her onto her lap.
I've missed you, ya know that?
He plants a quick kiss on her lips.
And...
Reaching to the nightstand, he pulls out a long-stemmed red rose. He hands it to her, still holding her on his lap.
Thanks for still being here... being patient with me.

Emotions

Watching Gunner go again Hope couldn't help but feel defeated herself. She had failed to help Gunner when he needed it, and she felt at lost on what to do.

"Sometimes, in some cases a deeper action needs to be take to keep someone safe. Maybe with Gunner this is one of those times."

Hope turns and looks to Reese the worry in her eyes. She did care, and she only wished Gunner would be ok.

"He might need more help than I can offer, and it will be a long hard road but if he is somewhere safe and can get better its worth it."

Giving a stretch as she stood from the bed where she had been slumpt over Katie gets a full force of emotions. It wasnt like a blast, but there were alot and it was like water on thirst lips. How she had missed this feeling and it was so good to feel close to the one she loved again.

Morning J! Good to feel you again.

A smile forms on Katie's lips not even realizing it was there at first that it was there, but this feeling inside, She felt renewed, almost different as God's will fell into place.

Ok, I'll be right over. Give me about 10 min.

Looking down at Jeff Katie gives a smile as she leans in to give him a soft kiss.

"I am going to go see Jason quick this morning. Rick said he was going to be over in a few moments so you wont be alone for long. I promise I will be back soon too. ok?"

Walking away

Gunner's shoulders drop and he looks at Hope with an expression of disbelief. "I can't trust anybody, can I? So I get a little crazy and wander the streets in the rain, and all of a sudden I need more help. Great."

Turning around, he steps back into his cubicle to grab his keys and turn back around, glaring at Reese. "Give me back my gun."

Reese stands firm, feeling a little braver with Hope on his side. "No."

"Give it back!"

"No, Gunner."

"Fine. You know what? I quit. This isn't worth it anymore." Gunner spins on his heel to stalk to the exit. "Bridges make less of a mess anyway," he mutters.

Reese watches Gunner walk away, feeling helpless. He glances to Hope. "Do I just let him go? Last night I was with him an hour and he never said a word. He was just... sitting there. I finally just took his gun and left. Figured he'd be alright once I got a hold on that but..." He shakes his head, clearly scared by Gunners behavior. "...I'm worried about him."


Gunner burns rubber as he speeds from the parking lot. He didn't like feeling this way: out of control. He never lost his temper, and he'd just had a shouting match. It didn't feel good. Worse, he didn't like the deeper feeling he had... the one that he'd buried twelve years ago.

Heading across town, he hits the quieter side, bypassing the little shop where he frequented for floats. This time, he went further, passing by the intersection of the accident, and continuing on to the bridge outside of town. It was a long one, stretching over more rocks than water. Pulling off to the side, he gets out if his car, wandering slowly on foot until he was in the middle of the bridge. He stops and stares down over the guardrail, his thoughts wandering places they never should have been.


Jason rolls over in bed and finally opens his eyes. Yawning, he stretches. He felt... good after sleeping in. But something else felt different too. It almost takes him a minute before he realizes what it is. He felt... emotions again... a lot of them. A gentle smile creases his lips. It was strange, running on pure emotion again.
Morning, Hero.
He glances to his nightstand as he sits up and pulls on his jeans.
If you got a minute, stop by...I've got something for ya.

For your own good.

Entering TJY Hope gives a yawn. Her might had been a full one and sleep had not come easy. She hadnt heard anything about Gunner that not and though that was good it made her worried as well.

Rubbing her eyes Hope looks up quickly as she hears the loud voices and see Gunner and Reese. What on earth was going on and what was with the shouting.

Hope didnt have to wait long for the answer to her question as she hears her name and she drew closer to Gunner and Reese. Just looking back and forth between both men Hope felt stuck though she new she had to do what was right.

"Gunner, your not ok. I am doing this, we are doing this because we care. Take some time off, go on a trip, get some fresh air but don't bury yourself deeper."

Hope lets out a long sigh as she glances at Reese.

"If you cant do this for yourself your going to be worse off and someone else is gonna have to do it for you."

Fine

Reese's mind is foggy from already been in bed several hours, but he manages to clear his head enough to understand what Hope was saying. He would find out later why Gunner had been at her house in the first place.

"Alright... I'll have someone check on him. Thanks, Hope."

Hanging up, he sighs and rolls out of bed. He was awake now. He might as well be the one to go find out where Gunner was. His agent could be a pain sometimes, but the last thing Reese wanted was to see him hurt.


Jeff still smiles a little, his eyes still closed. "You look like both of us... You've got Pent the eyes but you've got your mother's smile."

Feeling more at peace now than when he'd awoken so suddenly, he squeezes Katie's hand. "Tomorrow... ask me more tomorrow."



The moon makes its way across the sky, and slowly, slowly the light of dawn begins to outshine the stars. Morning had come.


Jeff stirs and opens his eyes. Looking around the room, he sees Katie and tries to remember all that had happened. He felt like he'd been run over by a train. Every muscle hurt, even his toes. It was painful just to turn his head. But something was different. He didn't feel so... sick. He was just incredibly sore... and thirsty.

His voice is hoarse as if he's had a horrible cold. "Morning, sunshine."




"I don't need a leave of absence!" Gunner throws up his hands, ignoring the stares from others on the main floor. He stood outside his cubicle, involved in a heated argument with Reese. "I'm fine!"

"You're not fine! I told you to take a break. Go home, Gunner. You need time off."

"I do not!" Gunner's eyes were bloodshot, proving he had had no sleep the night before. But he had come to work anyway. "And give me back my gun."

"No." Reese shakes his head stubbornly. "As of now, you're on mandatory leave of absence. If you won't take care of yourself, somebody has to."

"I don't need you trying to babysit me!" Gunner spots Hope just coming in to work and his stomach churns, remembering the evening before. He'd been foolish. "Hope! Tell Reese I'm fine so I can work!"

"You're not fine, Gunner!" Reese raises his voice to match. "You sitting at home in the dark with a loaded gun in your hand is not fine!" He'd spent an hour in silence at Gunner's last night before being able to leave, taking his agent's handgun with him.

"I was cleaning it!"

"In the dark?! I'm not stupid! Don't do this to yourself."

Gunner's eyes narrow, showing an unusual display of anger, a contradiction to his normally cool disposition. "Maybe if you hadn't come you wouldn't have to put up with me anymore."

"Don't talk like that," Reese retorts. "You're just going through a hard time is all."

"I'm fine!" Gunner repeats again. He looks over to Hope once more. "Please tell him I'm fine!"

late call

"I still want to help you Gunner, because I know what your going through is not easy...I.."

Hope's words trail off as she see that Gunner was leaving. There was nothing she could do and she couldnt force him to stay.

Once he was gone though she went to her desk and pulls out Reese number before punching it into her phone and waiting. She felt bad calling so late but it was for a good reason. Hearing the groggy voice on the other end Hope cringes knowing she woke up him.

"Reese, its Hope. I am sorry to call so late but..well Gunner just left here. He's not in good shape right now and I think someone needs to look after him."

Hope takes in a deep breath before she continues. She new she was talking fast but there really was no time to wast.

"I just think it would be best for someone to look out for him right now. I am not sure how because I didnt get a chanse to ask but he found out that he was the cause for his parents death. I think he said something about an argument. He's just not good right now. I tryed to get him to stay here but he wouldnt and he just left."