It's Time

Seeing the look on Ryan's face, Axel's shoulders dropped. Even though they rarely interacted outside of work, they had a unique friendship - one of mutual respect, and they cared for each other in their own way. He'd miss their talks and working on cars together. "I... haven't told anyone yet," he admitted quietly. 

Zan looked back and forth between them for a minute, confused. "Wait, what?"

Axel sighed. "I'm starting to slow the garage down." He still spoke to Ryan. "Even with your help and the guys trying to cover for me... it's just not getting better. Even if I have surgery... it's never gonna be what it needs to be for something like mechanics."

Zan swallowed his food, having grown solemn. "The job opening... you mean you're quitting?"

Axel nodded. "Not public yet but yeah. I've seen your work today and I'll recommend you if you want."

"Well sure. I just feel bad."

"Don't. It's... time." Axel forced a small smile to Ryan. "You just gotta make sure to keep the guys in line. You're the only other one they'll listen to."


Jason chuckled. "Yeah, I feel like waltzing into the kitchen and saying tada!" He rolled his eyes. Sighing, he finally stood and stretched. "I... am gonna take a shower. Then get some coffee."


"...But it's almost noon. Shouldn't they-"

"Just let them sleep." Rick was trying not to sound too irritated with Cindy, but it felt like all he did was repeat himself. "They were fine when I checked on them an hour ago. Just let them be. It's gonna take time."

Cindy sighed and turned to leave the kitchen to go do laundry. 

Rick remained sitting at the table and leaned forward to rest his head on his arms. He was worried too, but he knew now there was nothing really to be done since Jason and Katie didn't want to suppress their connection. The stress was wearing on him though, and he himself was getting tired.


Aaron couldn't help but just shake his head at Sam. Did she always see the positive side? Being allowed to keep the door open, he perked up a little. "Okay. Um... thanks."

He thought for a moment, new hope entering his eyes. "A walk would be nice..."