Looking up at her Uncle from the couch Bree thought for a long moment. She hated this, she hated the whole thing. She hated Garret not being home, and she hated he had to be there in that place alone. Would running more tests really help? She was so tired of nothing working, so tired of not having Hunter there with her.
"I can't! I can't make that desition if he doesn't want it. I've already done too much and he's going to end up hating me."
Glancing at her Uncle again tears sprung into her eyes. She just couldn't do it not anymore. If her Uncle did it she would hold no ill will but she just couldn't.
Getting back to the house and standing on the porch Destiny smiled at Zan. He's been so sweet all night, and their time together had been nice. She was just sad now that it went to fast.
"I had a really great time too."
As Zan brushed her face Destiny's smile grew a little more as she leaned her head into his hand and closed her eyes. His touch just felt nice. Opening her eyes after a few moments she smiled.
"Good Night Zan. I'll see you Sunday!"
Watching as Dylan walked away Katie really did feel bad. She knew it wasn't entirely what he wanted to hear but it was better than sugar coating it. Pushing some of her feelings towards Jason she gave a small not. At least he was going to talk to Mick himself.
He kind of reminds me, of me in a way.
Standing and taking Jason's hand Katie started forward again to walk a little bit more. The fresh air felt nice, and it was nice to just be able to function again.
"Gotta let him at least try, stretch his wings find where he really does belong. At least he wouldn't be thrown into anything two dangerous right away."
May 6, 2017
Scans
Dylan listened to Katie, his shoulders dropping just a little more. He knew working for the Elite - or any law enforcement - wasn't easy. And if he was really honest, he had no idea if he was cut out for that kind of work. All he knew was he had to get away from here, and at least the Elite's goal was a cause he could be passionate about.
He nodded slowly. "I just want a chance to at least see if it's something I could do. If I find out I'm not a good fit, then I won't force it. I just... figure it's worth a try." He paused, swallowing hard. "And I'll talk to Dad. I think he'd be madder if he heard it from Reese."
Jason had to agree. "Good choice."
Dylan grabbed the buckets he'd been working on, and sighed. "Thanks... I really appreciate this."
"Yeah... we'll talk more, okay?" Jason watched him walk away before turning to Katie. "I'm not convinced this is what he really wants. I think he just wants away from here." He shrugged. "But maybe Reese could set something up where he shadows someone at the Elite. Just watches and learns for a while before diving in? I'm just trying to thing of a good way to present the idea."
Zan chuckled and nodded. "Okay. I'll keep it a secret." He sat with her for just a few more minutes before finally getting to his feet. They found a trash can for their empty cups, then slowly made their way back to the car.
The ride back to her house was quiet. It was peaceful though. The silence wasn't awkward... it was just... nice. Once they'd arrived, Zan helped carry the almost-empty picnic basket, and stopped at the doorway. Even though he'd love to suggest staying for a late movie, he knew he should go home.
"I had... a really good time tonight." He grinned. "Even sitting through part of the movie." Pausing, his eyes roamed her face like they had so many times, lingering for just a moment on her lips before looking back up to her own eyes. In spite of a particular desire to kiss her goodnight, he didn't want to press his luck. Instead, he reached up to simply brush her cheek with his hand. "See ya Sunday morning, I guess."
"Oh yeah, sure." Wyatt nodded to Sam. "Just let me know when you head out. I'm not going anywhere today."
Hal sat at his kitchen table, staring into his cold cup of coffee. He'd had another argument on the phone with Michelle earlier, and another call had confirmed for sure that there was nothing he could do about her moving Alison to England. It was officially a done deal now... as he'd assumed it would be. But it had been worth trying. He just felt so out of it that he knew he wouldn't have been any good at work today.
Finally rising, he dumped the coffee in the sink, then wandered out through the sliding glass doors to the rooftop patio. It was cloudy today. Gloomy. And that was okay with him. Easing down in a chair, he put his head back and just closed his eyes as the breeze blew.
"Brent Franklin! You get up off the floor this instant!" Julie set her hands on her hips and gave him a stern look.
Gunner sat on the floor at the foot of his bed, barefoot and leaned back against the wall, his hands stuffed in his hoodie pocket. He looked up at the nurse with defiance. "I don't want lunch," he stated stubbornly. "I already told you that."
Julie went down to one knee to look him in the eye. "You already refused breakfast. If you don't eat lunch, I'll have to report it, and you know what that means."
"Yep." Gunner's eyes narrowed. "Another session with the shrink, and another change in my meds. What difference does it make?"
"They were helping you," she tried to assure. "You were feeling better. I don't understand why you're being so stubborn."
Tears sprang to the surface. "I don't wanna live the rest of my life on pills," he hissed. "Can't you at least understand that? What good am I then? What good am I, dependent on a prescription just so I feel halfway sane?" He shook his head. "I need to do this on my own strength. My own willpower."
Julie sighed and set a hand on his knee. "It's okay to need help. How can I convince you of that?"
Gunner turned his face away from her. "I just want to go home. Just tell them to let me go home."
With nothing else to say, Julie stood and finally left his room. She shook her head as she went to the nurse's station and pulled his clipboard to make a note. Next, she went straight to Dr. Hawks...
"...I don't know what else to do. I need help, but the Elite put restrictions on who he can have contact with. He's not listening to anything anymore. I don't know what happened."
Kash leaned back in his chair and sighed deeply. "First off, calm down, or you're gonna wind up being a patient."
Julie bit her lip and forced herself to take a couple deep breaths. "Okay. I'm calm. I just want to help him and I don't understand what's happening."
"Neither do I," he admitted. He looked over the chart she'd given him, running his finger down the list of medications they'd tried. "Have any of these helped him at all?"
"Um... that last one did, yes. I saw marked improvement. To be honest, last week, I thought by now he might even be released. Then all of a sudden he started refusing to take his meds, he got stubborn again, and then today he's back to not wanting to eat."
Kash scribbled out a note and handed it to her. "Take this to the lab. I want some scans done. Something else is going on with him. I thought it was all psychological, but I'm wondering if I missed something."
Julie furrowed her brow, confused. "What do you mean?"
"I want to make sure it's not physical. He's had that metal plate in his head for quite a few years now. If anything has shifted or changed as he's aged, that could be causing some of his issues. I think he has an obsessive personality, but something else is compounding it, and I want to find out what it is."
"What if he doesn't want the tests done?"
"Then we'll have to find out who can make decisions for him because he's obviously incompetent at this point."
JT wandered into the living room after putting the dishes from supper in the dishwasher. He never tired of Bree's company, and was glad she'd decided to spend the evening. Especially now, after the call he'd just received from Justin. Gunner had been assigned a very small handful of people at Brookshire for security reasons per Garret's suggestion, and Justin had been set up as their main line of communication to keep information secure.
Sinking down on the couch next to his niece, JT patted her leg lovingly. "I just heard from Justin Hawks. Brookshire needs permission to run some tests... they're wondering now if there's something physically wrong with Gunner's brain." He looked at her with sympathy, knowing how hard all this was on her. "He's resisting everything, but we can override him if we think the tests should be done." He sighed deeply. He'd helped with Gunner's procedure so many years ago, and from a medical perspective, he agreed they should at least look into this.
He nodded slowly. "I just want a chance to at least see if it's something I could do. If I find out I'm not a good fit, then I won't force it. I just... figure it's worth a try." He paused, swallowing hard. "And I'll talk to Dad. I think he'd be madder if he heard it from Reese."
Jason had to agree. "Good choice."
Dylan grabbed the buckets he'd been working on, and sighed. "Thanks... I really appreciate this."
"Yeah... we'll talk more, okay?" Jason watched him walk away before turning to Katie. "I'm not convinced this is what he really wants. I think he just wants away from here." He shrugged. "But maybe Reese could set something up where he shadows someone at the Elite. Just watches and learns for a while before diving in? I'm just trying to thing of a good way to present the idea."
Zan chuckled and nodded. "Okay. I'll keep it a secret." He sat with her for just a few more minutes before finally getting to his feet. They found a trash can for their empty cups, then slowly made their way back to the car.
The ride back to her house was quiet. It was peaceful though. The silence wasn't awkward... it was just... nice. Once they'd arrived, Zan helped carry the almost-empty picnic basket, and stopped at the doorway. Even though he'd love to suggest staying for a late movie, he knew he should go home.
"I had... a really good time tonight." He grinned. "Even sitting through part of the movie." Pausing, his eyes roamed her face like they had so many times, lingering for just a moment on her lips before looking back up to her own eyes. In spite of a particular desire to kiss her goodnight, he didn't want to press his luck. Instead, he reached up to simply brush her cheek with his hand. "See ya Sunday morning, I guess."
"Oh yeah, sure." Wyatt nodded to Sam. "Just let me know when you head out. I'm not going anywhere today."
Hal sat at his kitchen table, staring into his cold cup of coffee. He'd had another argument on the phone with Michelle earlier, and another call had confirmed for sure that there was nothing he could do about her moving Alison to England. It was officially a done deal now... as he'd assumed it would be. But it had been worth trying. He just felt so out of it that he knew he wouldn't have been any good at work today.
Finally rising, he dumped the coffee in the sink, then wandered out through the sliding glass doors to the rooftop patio. It was cloudy today. Gloomy. And that was okay with him. Easing down in a chair, he put his head back and just closed his eyes as the breeze blew.
"Brent Franklin! You get up off the floor this instant!" Julie set her hands on her hips and gave him a stern look.
Gunner sat on the floor at the foot of his bed, barefoot and leaned back against the wall, his hands stuffed in his hoodie pocket. He looked up at the nurse with defiance. "I don't want lunch," he stated stubbornly. "I already told you that."
Julie went down to one knee to look him in the eye. "You already refused breakfast. If you don't eat lunch, I'll have to report it, and you know what that means."
"Yep." Gunner's eyes narrowed. "Another session with the shrink, and another change in my meds. What difference does it make?"
"They were helping you," she tried to assure. "You were feeling better. I don't understand why you're being so stubborn."
Tears sprang to the surface. "I don't wanna live the rest of my life on pills," he hissed. "Can't you at least understand that? What good am I then? What good am I, dependent on a prescription just so I feel halfway sane?" He shook his head. "I need to do this on my own strength. My own willpower."
Julie sighed and set a hand on his knee. "It's okay to need help. How can I convince you of that?"
Gunner turned his face away from her. "I just want to go home. Just tell them to let me go home."
With nothing else to say, Julie stood and finally left his room. She shook her head as she went to the nurse's station and pulled his clipboard to make a note. Next, she went straight to Dr. Hawks...
"...I don't know what else to do. I need help, but the Elite put restrictions on who he can have contact with. He's not listening to anything anymore. I don't know what happened."
Kash leaned back in his chair and sighed deeply. "First off, calm down, or you're gonna wind up being a patient."
Julie bit her lip and forced herself to take a couple deep breaths. "Okay. I'm calm. I just want to help him and I don't understand what's happening."
"Neither do I," he admitted. He looked over the chart she'd given him, running his finger down the list of medications they'd tried. "Have any of these helped him at all?"
"Um... that last one did, yes. I saw marked improvement. To be honest, last week, I thought by now he might even be released. Then all of a sudden he started refusing to take his meds, he got stubborn again, and then today he's back to not wanting to eat."
Kash scribbled out a note and handed it to her. "Take this to the lab. I want some scans done. Something else is going on with him. I thought it was all psychological, but I'm wondering if I missed something."
Julie furrowed her brow, confused. "What do you mean?"
"I want to make sure it's not physical. He's had that metal plate in his head for quite a few years now. If anything has shifted or changed as he's aged, that could be causing some of his issues. I think he has an obsessive personality, but something else is compounding it, and I want to find out what it is."
"What if he doesn't want the tests done?"
"Then we'll have to find out who can make decisions for him because he's obviously incompetent at this point."
JT wandered into the living room after putting the dishes from supper in the dishwasher. He never tired of Bree's company, and was glad she'd decided to spend the evening. Especially now, after the call he'd just received from Justin. Gunner had been assigned a very small handful of people at Brookshire for security reasons per Garret's suggestion, and Justin had been set up as their main line of communication to keep information secure.
Sinking down on the couch next to his niece, JT patted her leg lovingly. "I just heard from Justin Hawks. Brookshire needs permission to run some tests... they're wondering now if there's something physically wrong with Gunner's brain." He looked at her with sympathy, knowing how hard all this was on her. "He's resisting everything, but we can override him if we think the tests should be done." He sighed deeply. He'd helped with Gunner's procedure so many years ago, and from a medical perspective, he agreed they should at least look into this.
Make sure
Kaite just listened taking everything in. She felt bad for Dylan and could feel Jason did too. She new what it was like to leave a place you didn't feel like you belonged, but had she been running away like it seemed Dylan was?
He does have a lot of motivation. I'm not too sure I like the idea of keeping this from Mick though.
Shifting just a little and sitting down on the stump that was nearby she studied Dylan for a long moment. It was a hard life being in the Elite and sometimes Kaite hate it and missed it here even if she never really told anyone that but it also had been one of the best desitions she ever made in her life and she'd never want to change that. Maybe it really was time for Dylan to find his own way too.
"We'll make a good strong case to Reese for you and let it go from there. I think it would be a good idea if you were honest with Mick too. I think he might respect that a little more. If you can't though I understand and Reese will...just make sure this is what you really want ok..."
Katie was silent again for a moment before continuing.
"The Agency was a hard place to be, but sometimes the Elite is worse for a whole different reason. Just make sure you are ready for what is to come, and this is really something you want. That's all I ask."
Destiny smiled hearing Zan accept her offer. She was happy he said he would go to church with her. That was something that was imporant to her and seeing he was willing made her happy.
"I think I could handle lunch afterward, but you have to keep it a surprise."
Looking up as Wyatt tapped on the door Sam cocked her head hearing that Hal had called in. She new it must be because of what happened yesterday and it worried her a little. She didn't want to alarm anyone else though knowing it was not her place to say anything.
"I'm ok for now. Around lunch do you think you could take over for me for an hour or so?"
He does have a lot of motivation. I'm not too sure I like the idea of keeping this from Mick though.
Shifting just a little and sitting down on the stump that was nearby she studied Dylan for a long moment. It was a hard life being in the Elite and sometimes Kaite hate it and missed it here even if she never really told anyone that but it also had been one of the best desitions she ever made in her life and she'd never want to change that. Maybe it really was time for Dylan to find his own way too.
"We'll make a good strong case to Reese for you and let it go from there. I think it would be a good idea if you were honest with Mick too. I think he might respect that a little more. If you can't though I understand and Reese will...just make sure this is what you really want ok..."
Katie was silent again for a moment before continuing.
"The Agency was a hard place to be, but sometimes the Elite is worse for a whole different reason. Just make sure you are ready for what is to come, and this is really something you want. That's all I ask."
Destiny smiled hearing Zan accept her offer. She was happy he said he would go to church with her. That was something that was imporant to her and seeing he was willing made her happy.
"I think I could handle lunch afterward, but you have to keep it a surprise."
Looking up as Wyatt tapped on the door Sam cocked her head hearing that Hal had called in. She new it must be because of what happened yesterday and it worried her a little. She didn't want to alarm anyone else though knowing it was not her place to say anything.
"I'm ok for now. Around lunch do you think you could take over for me for an hour or so?"
Only If
Dylan sighed, his eyes growing a little dimmer. “I already have Reese’s number. I’ve… had it for a while.”
Jason quirked an eyebrow.
So this apparently isn’t a new idea of his.
“And so why haven’t you called him?”
“Because… I know he wouldn’t just let me in on my own. I… was hoping you guys could put a good word in for me. He’d listen to you.”
He’s got guts, I’ll give him that.
Jason gave Katie a momentary glance.
“What’s your dad have to say about all this?”
Dylan chewed on the inside of his lip. “I… haven’t talked to him about it.” He looked between them, barely letting his gaze out from under the brim of his cowboy hate. “You know how he is. He’d never want me to leave. But… I don’t need his permission.”
“All it would take is one call from him to Reese, and you’d never get into the Elite,” Jason warned. “Reese won’t defy your dad. The people here are too important in all this and if your dad fights the Elite, Reese will back off.” Of that much, he was certain. Reese would not put himself in the middle of a family feud, especially with everything else going on.
Dylan’s shoulders dropped. “It was worth asking.”
Jason sighed. “Why do you want this all of a sudden? I figured you’d want to stay here at the ranch.”
“Yeah well… sometimes… acres and acres of land can be… small.”
“And the horses? You’d just… give all that up?”
Sadness entered Dylan’s gaze. Horses were one of the most important things to him, and he was in love with Seven. But he still felt trapped. “I don’t…” He sighed. “I don’t know if I really belong here.” His eyes found Katie’s. Surely she could relate. After having lived here with her aunt, then deciding to leave to do something more. To be something more. “I’m only here because Dad wanted to protect me. I get that, and as much as I hate to admit it, it was the best thing for me. But it was the Agency that screwed up my life, and I don’t want to just stay here and hide the rest of my life. I mean… what is really here for me? The best friend I’ve got is busy ninety percent of the time with her boyfriend. I only go out to go to horse auctions, and I’ve always got to have someone with me in case the Agency shows up. I love horses, don’t get me wrong, but it would be nice to go hang out with someone sometime who isn’t my dad’s age.”
Jason knew Kate would feel his sympathetic emotions. He felt badly for the younger man. It was obvious he did feel stuck and very lonely – especially if he was confiding in them, whom he really didn’t even know all that well. Ashlee did seem preoccupied with Travis, and the next closest person would be his own sister, who was preoccupied with being engaged. Clint and Wendy would come close, but they had their own little family, and Clint seemed to have his own set of problems. Dylan really did have a very small social sphere here… no wonder he wanted out. “Are you sure going to the Elite would be the best option? What about going away to school or something?”
Dylan shrugged lamely. “I hate school. And I know I haven’t shown an interest in the Elite before but… it looks like you do really cool stuff. I know it’s hard work and dangerous and it’s not as glamorous as it looks on the outside but… at least I’d be fighting against the people who messed me up. I just… I want a chance to do something… to be something more than just a horse wrangler. Maybe I’ll hate it – but at least I’ll know I tried.”
Jason pursed his lips and thought. Dylan did seem to have motivation. And he was right – Jason started at a younger age than he was. Not that it was a good idea – he still had bitter feelings against Austin for steering him in that direction before he was ready. But Dylan was completely self-motivated at this point. No one was trying to recruit him, and he did seem to have a healthy, realistic perspective. Jason glanced at Katie again. “I guess… maybe we could talk to Reese?” He looked back to Dylan. “What if we told Reese everything? Including the part about your dad? Then he could talk to your dad himself before he makes a decision.”
Dylan didn’t like that idea, but he knew good and well his dad would be involved at some point. He finally nodded. “Just… don’t say anything to anyone else… okay?”
Jason gave Katie a wary look. Was secrecy such a good idea? Could they do it, just for Dylan’s sake?
Zan's eyes traveled down to their hands as Destiny's fingers ran through his palm. It might mean absolutely nothing, but in all honesty, he hadn't felt a gentle, unassuming touch like hers in... a very long time. The last woman he'd spent time alone with had been the one who'd only wanted to get him into bed. But Destiny... he could easily sense her innocence and recognize she had no ill-motivation.
His gaze drifted back up again at her invitation to go to church. He had to think about that one for a few moments. He hadn't stepped foot in a church since moving here... other than for someone's wedding a year or so ago. But at least with this, he'd be with Destiny... and at least it sounded halfway casual - which was good, seeing as though his nicest clothes still included jeans. He had no excuse. He didn't work Sundays, and had no other plans. "Okay." A new little smile emerged, and he curled his fingers around hers, gently toying with them. "Only if I can take you out to lunch afterwards."
It was the next morning, and things around the Elite were fairly quiet. Everyone had their noses in their own businesses this morning, leaving the atmosphere quieter than normal. There was still an odd tension in the air, which had started ever since Katie and Jason had left.
"Hey, good morning." Wyatt tapped on the open door to the security room and gave Sam a friendly smile. "I was supposed to let you know Hal called in today. If you could keep an eye on the monitors that would be awesome. Otherwise I can come sit a while if you need to go anywhere."
Jason quirked an eyebrow.
So this apparently isn’t a new idea of his.
“And so why haven’t you called him?”
“Because… I know he wouldn’t just let me in on my own. I… was hoping you guys could put a good word in for me. He’d listen to you.”
He’s got guts, I’ll give him that.
Jason gave Katie a momentary glance.
“What’s your dad have to say about all this?”
Dylan chewed on the inside of his lip. “I… haven’t talked to him about it.” He looked between them, barely letting his gaze out from under the brim of his cowboy hate. “You know how he is. He’d never want me to leave. But… I don’t need his permission.”
“All it would take is one call from him to Reese, and you’d never get into the Elite,” Jason warned. “Reese won’t defy your dad. The people here are too important in all this and if your dad fights the Elite, Reese will back off.” Of that much, he was certain. Reese would not put himself in the middle of a family feud, especially with everything else going on.
Dylan’s shoulders dropped. “It was worth asking.”
Jason sighed. “Why do you want this all of a sudden? I figured you’d want to stay here at the ranch.”
“Yeah well… sometimes… acres and acres of land can be… small.”
“And the horses? You’d just… give all that up?”
Sadness entered Dylan’s gaze. Horses were one of the most important things to him, and he was in love with Seven. But he still felt trapped. “I don’t…” He sighed. “I don’t know if I really belong here.” His eyes found Katie’s. Surely she could relate. After having lived here with her aunt, then deciding to leave to do something more. To be something more. “I’m only here because Dad wanted to protect me. I get that, and as much as I hate to admit it, it was the best thing for me. But it was the Agency that screwed up my life, and I don’t want to just stay here and hide the rest of my life. I mean… what is really here for me? The best friend I’ve got is busy ninety percent of the time with her boyfriend. I only go out to go to horse auctions, and I’ve always got to have someone with me in case the Agency shows up. I love horses, don’t get me wrong, but it would be nice to go hang out with someone sometime who isn’t my dad’s age.”
Jason knew Kate would feel his sympathetic emotions. He felt badly for the younger man. It was obvious he did feel stuck and very lonely – especially if he was confiding in them, whom he really didn’t even know all that well. Ashlee did seem preoccupied with Travis, and the next closest person would be his own sister, who was preoccupied with being engaged. Clint and Wendy would come close, but they had their own little family, and Clint seemed to have his own set of problems. Dylan really did have a very small social sphere here… no wonder he wanted out. “Are you sure going to the Elite would be the best option? What about going away to school or something?”
Dylan shrugged lamely. “I hate school. And I know I haven’t shown an interest in the Elite before but… it looks like you do really cool stuff. I know it’s hard work and dangerous and it’s not as glamorous as it looks on the outside but… at least I’d be fighting against the people who messed me up. I just… I want a chance to do something… to be something more than just a horse wrangler. Maybe I’ll hate it – but at least I’ll know I tried.”
Jason pursed his lips and thought. Dylan did seem to have motivation. And he was right – Jason started at a younger age than he was. Not that it was a good idea – he still had bitter feelings against Austin for steering him in that direction before he was ready. But Dylan was completely self-motivated at this point. No one was trying to recruit him, and he did seem to have a healthy, realistic perspective. Jason glanced at Katie again. “I guess… maybe we could talk to Reese?” He looked back to Dylan. “What if we told Reese everything? Including the part about your dad? Then he could talk to your dad himself before he makes a decision.”
Dylan didn’t like that idea, but he knew good and well his dad would be involved at some point. He finally nodded. “Just… don’t say anything to anyone else… okay?”
Jason gave Katie a wary look. Was secrecy such a good idea? Could they do it, just for Dylan’s sake?
Zan's eyes traveled down to their hands as Destiny's fingers ran through his palm. It might mean absolutely nothing, but in all honesty, he hadn't felt a gentle, unassuming touch like hers in... a very long time. The last woman he'd spent time alone with had been the one who'd only wanted to get him into bed. But Destiny... he could easily sense her innocence and recognize she had no ill-motivation.
His gaze drifted back up again at her invitation to go to church. He had to think about that one for a few moments. He hadn't stepped foot in a church since moving here... other than for someone's wedding a year or so ago. But at least with this, he'd be with Destiny... and at least it sounded halfway casual - which was good, seeing as though his nicest clothes still included jeans. He had no excuse. He didn't work Sundays, and had no other plans. "Okay." A new little smile emerged, and he curled his fingers around hers, gently toying with them. "Only if I can take you out to lunch afterwards."
It was the next morning, and things around the Elite were fairly quiet. Everyone had their noses in their own businesses this morning, leaving the atmosphere quieter than normal. There was still an odd tension in the air, which had started ever since Katie and Jason had left.
"Hey, good morning." Wyatt tapped on the open door to the security room and gave Sam a friendly smile. "I was supposed to let you know Hal called in today. If you could keep an eye on the monitors that would be awesome. Otherwise I can come sit a while if you need to go anywhere."
Better
Following Jason to find Dylan Katie. It was a nice day out and she just wanted to get what Dylan had to say to them out of the way so they could enjoy the rest of the day. Not that Dylan was a bother but it would bother her all day wanting to know what he wanted to talk to them about.
Yeah, he really is. You can tell by that look in his eyes. I didn't think he had is so bad here or that he was dealing with so much.
Continuing to listen Katie couldn't help the surprised look on her face when Dylan mention the Elite. Looking to Jason and then back to Dylan she wasn't sure what to say completely. Did he mean he wanted to work with them, work along side them...or what did he mean.
Well then...
Katie knew Jason would be able to feel how confused she was. She never thought of Dylan leaving the ranch. Maybe he didn't like it here as much as she thought he did. What was the right road for them to take here? She didn't want to make anyone upset.
Better to join the Elite if he is running, then going back to the Agency I guess.
"Well, it wouldn't be our call to say if you could join or not. Reese would make that call and to be one hundred honest with all the changed that are going on with the FBI I am not sure what they want to do on bringing new people in. We could always give you Reese's number though so you can call and talk to him about it."
Sitting with Zan and just listing to him talk again it was nice to get to know him a little more. She couldn't help but feel a little bad about all he had been through with Isabella though. You could be blind, and still, see and feel how much he hurt from losing Isabella.
"I think our faith is always put to the test at one time or another. It's getting back up when we fall own that matters."
Shifting just a little and moving her hand to flip over Zan's Destiny just absentmindedly traced the lines in his hand with her own fingers. She liked his hands, they were strong and yet gentil, you could see the oil that stained them and yet they were clean, she just liked them. '
Looking up again she smiled cocking her head to one side for a moment and pushing some hair behind her ear.
"Maybe this Sunday you'd like to join me for church? It's nothing fancy so you don't have to worry about getting dressed up, and I think you'll like the music too."
Yeah, he really is. You can tell by that look in his eyes. I didn't think he had is so bad here or that he was dealing with so much.
Continuing to listen Katie couldn't help the surprised look on her face when Dylan mention the Elite. Looking to Jason and then back to Dylan she wasn't sure what to say completely. Did he mean he wanted to work with them, work along side them...or what did he mean.
Well then...
Katie knew Jason would be able to feel how confused she was. She never thought of Dylan leaving the ranch. Maybe he didn't like it here as much as she thought he did. What was the right road for them to take here? She didn't want to make anyone upset.
Better to join the Elite if he is running, then going back to the Agency I guess.
"Well, it wouldn't be our call to say if you could join or not. Reese would make that call and to be one hundred honest with all the changed that are going on with the FBI I am not sure what they want to do on bringing new people in. We could always give you Reese's number though so you can call and talk to him about it."
Sitting with Zan and just listing to him talk again it was nice to get to know him a little more. She couldn't help but feel a little bad about all he had been through with Isabella though. You could be blind, and still, see and feel how much he hurt from losing Isabella.
"I think our faith is always put to the test at one time or another. It's getting back up when we fall own that matters."
Shifting just a little and moving her hand to flip over Zan's Destiny just absentmindedly traced the lines in his hand with her own fingers. She liked his hands, they were strong and yet gentil, you could see the oil that stained them and yet they were clean, she just liked them. '
Looking up again she smiled cocking her head to one side for a moment and pushing some hair behind her ear.
"Maybe this Sunday you'd like to join me for church? It's nothing fancy so you don't have to worry about getting dressed up, and I think you'll like the music too."
Question
Feeling Destiny hold his hand in return, instead of pulling away, Zan took a sip of his milkshake to hide his smile. He hadn’t been sure if she’d be receptive or not, but was glad she was. Her touch was gentle and warm, just like he’d imagined.
“Eh… don’t thank me.” He continued the slow amble around the little park. “This whole thing was your idea, remember? I just came along for the ride.” He gave her a sidelong glance and grinned. Keeping his hand in hers, he walked a little further until he spotted a bench. As he sat with her, he just took in their surroundings. It was peaceful here. He’d been here at night before but… hadn’t ever really noticed how pretty it was.
Talking with Destiny was easy. Whether it was about his racing, or hobbies or favorite foods, it just never felt boring. The milkshakes were finished and time slipped by faster than realized…
“…but after Isabella I guess I just…” Zan’s fingers toyed with Destiny’s as he still held her hand between them. “Got angry with God,” he concluded. He’d admitted he’d had a strong faith at one time but had fallen away and just never quite got back. He hadn’t been surprised to hear of Destiny’s own faith and her regular church attendance. He’d sensed it – maybe that’s was one reason she had a peaceful air about her, in spite of all she’d gone through.
He turned his head and let his eyes roam her face. “Maybe… I need to get back to that,” he concluded.
Travis grinned and brushed Ashlee’s cheek with his hand. “See you tomorrow. Sleep tight.” Giving her one last hug, he finally let go, and ambled towards his own bunk. He still didn’t like the limitations their parents had put on them but… it hadn’t turned out so bad. At least nobody was giving them a hard time for displaying affection.
Back at the main house, Dylan tried to control his emotions. He’d talked with Ashlee, he’d had multiple talks with himself, and he’d done his best to put all feelings aside. And yet… he still had this little ache in his gut every time he saw her and Travis together. He was enjoying life more now… letting himself down and being happier was… something he’d needed to do. But it hadn’t solved his loneliness or his disliking Travis. Maybe talking with Katie and Jason really would be an answer.
Finally pushing off the porch, he wandered to the barn for one last check before he’d go to bed. He knew his dad would have already made the last round but… he liked doing it anyway, just to say goodnight to all the horses.
Yeah… let’s see if we can corner him tomorrow and see what’s up.
Jason took Katie’s hand to continue their walk down the lane and to the little house. It was dark, which meant everyone was in bed, which meant they should be quiet. Stopping on the porch, Jason looked down at Katie before wrapping his arms around her and giving her a long kiss. “That’ll have to tide you over til morning,” he whispered.
As much as he didn’t want to admit it, going to bed alone was rather…lonely. But he was glad they were both feeling so much better that they could actually function again. It was better this way. And having their connection… it felt like they were only inches away from each other at all times anyway. And that’s what Jason held onto as he fell asleep…
“…Again?” Jeff sighed as he sank down in a kitchen chair. He’d come over to join the family for breakfast, only to find that Katie and Jason had already been up and left together.
Rick sipped his coffee and nodded slowly. He glanced at Jeff, then Wes, then over to Cindy, who was preparing their morning meal of eggs and toast. “They’ll be back. Be glad they’re feeling well enough to actually be out of bed.”
“Yeah but…” Jeff shrugged. “I dunno. They’re like two magnets. I mean, I’ve seen them be close, but… can’t they spend any time apart? Or would that kill them?”
A little smile curled Rick’s mouth. “Jeff, would you break up two people on their honeymoon?”
Jeff blinked. “What?”
“Look, you and I can never understand what those two are going through. But think about it… if you and another person were going to share every emotion you had… wouldn’t you want to spend time getting reacquainted? Katie and Jason have a connection that goes beyond anything else. It’s a bond. Right now, they’re trying to settle into all the new – and rather invasive – sensations they’re both feeling. It can be pleasurable because it’s what they need to survive, but it can also be downright irritating and frustrating. Whether they like it or not, it’s an extremely intimate experience, and they need time to adjust.”
Jeff sighed deeply. He didn’t understand, but he could at least sort of grasp Rick’s explanation. “I guess maybe I selfishly wanted to spend more time with her.”
“You’re not the only one,” Cindy admitted as she came over and set down a dish of scrambled eggs. She gave Wes an apologetic look before cringing a little at Rick. “I wanted to just be with my son and enjoy his company but… I guess maybe I’ve gotten a little bent out of shape myself.”
Rick nodded knowingly. “I’ve never been a parent, but I can imagine. Don’t worry though – either of you. I’m not letting them go back to Nevada until they’ve gained more control. Things will settle, and they’ll be able to pry themselves apart from each other again. They need to learn to function separately again too, so they can go back to their own daily lives. It’ll come… I’m sure of it.”
Walking hand-in-hand with Katie, Jason enjoyed the morning sun. They’d both felt good when waking up, which was such a relief in itself, that getting out and being in the fresh air was a no-brainer. They’d walked down the trail a while, then had looped back towards the barns. Not much had been said but… it didn’t need to be. Approaching the main barn, Jason squinted to make out Dylan, who was rinsing out some water buckets…
Dylan turned off the hose and wiped his hands on his jeans, just ready to go back in the barn when he saw Jason and Katie approaching. “Morning.”
Jason nodded. “Hey. Katie said you wanted to talk to us? Now a good time?”
Dylan glanced around, making sure they were alone before nodding. “Yeah. I just… had a question.”
There was much troubling the young man. That much Jason could see.
He’s really struggling with something, isn’t he?
“Okay… shoot.”
Dylan crossed his arms. “How could I get involved with the Elite?”
Jason’s eyes widened.
Okay, I wasn’t expecting that one.
“Involved? What… do you mean?”
“I dunno, I just…” Dylan shrugged. He looked to Jason, then his cousin, almost pleading. “Is there anything I could do? Or learn? Or… or be trained?”
Jason blinked. “You mean… you want to be an agent?”
Dylan swallowed hard. “Maybe.”
“Well, Dylan, I-”
“You started when you were younger than me, right?” Dylan interrupted. He looked back to Katie. “And you left the ranch to join them, right? So… so would there be a chance for me?”
Jason glanced to Katie, still surprised and confused.
I… am at a loss here. He obviously didn’t want anyone else around to have this conversation, which leads me to believe Mick doesn’t know. So… is he serious or is he running from something?
“Eh… don’t thank me.” He continued the slow amble around the little park. “This whole thing was your idea, remember? I just came along for the ride.” He gave her a sidelong glance and grinned. Keeping his hand in hers, he walked a little further until he spotted a bench. As he sat with her, he just took in their surroundings. It was peaceful here. He’d been here at night before but… hadn’t ever really noticed how pretty it was.
Talking with Destiny was easy. Whether it was about his racing, or hobbies or favorite foods, it just never felt boring. The milkshakes were finished and time slipped by faster than realized…
“…but after Isabella I guess I just…” Zan’s fingers toyed with Destiny’s as he still held her hand between them. “Got angry with God,” he concluded. He’d admitted he’d had a strong faith at one time but had fallen away and just never quite got back. He hadn’t been surprised to hear of Destiny’s own faith and her regular church attendance. He’d sensed it – maybe that’s was one reason she had a peaceful air about her, in spite of all she’d gone through.
He turned his head and let his eyes roam her face. “Maybe… I need to get back to that,” he concluded.
Travis grinned and brushed Ashlee’s cheek with his hand. “See you tomorrow. Sleep tight.” Giving her one last hug, he finally let go, and ambled towards his own bunk. He still didn’t like the limitations their parents had put on them but… it hadn’t turned out so bad. At least nobody was giving them a hard time for displaying affection.
Back at the main house, Dylan tried to control his emotions. He’d talked with Ashlee, he’d had multiple talks with himself, and he’d done his best to put all feelings aside. And yet… he still had this little ache in his gut every time he saw her and Travis together. He was enjoying life more now… letting himself down and being happier was… something he’d needed to do. But it hadn’t solved his loneliness or his disliking Travis. Maybe talking with Katie and Jason really would be an answer.
Finally pushing off the porch, he wandered to the barn for one last check before he’d go to bed. He knew his dad would have already made the last round but… he liked doing it anyway, just to say goodnight to all the horses.
Yeah… let’s see if we can corner him tomorrow and see what’s up.
Jason took Katie’s hand to continue their walk down the lane and to the little house. It was dark, which meant everyone was in bed, which meant they should be quiet. Stopping on the porch, Jason looked down at Katie before wrapping his arms around her and giving her a long kiss. “That’ll have to tide you over til morning,” he whispered.
As much as he didn’t want to admit it, going to bed alone was rather…lonely. But he was glad they were both feeling so much better that they could actually function again. It was better this way. And having their connection… it felt like they were only inches away from each other at all times anyway. And that’s what Jason held onto as he fell asleep…
“…Again?” Jeff sighed as he sank down in a kitchen chair. He’d come over to join the family for breakfast, only to find that Katie and Jason had already been up and left together.
Rick sipped his coffee and nodded slowly. He glanced at Jeff, then Wes, then over to Cindy, who was preparing their morning meal of eggs and toast. “They’ll be back. Be glad they’re feeling well enough to actually be out of bed.”
“Yeah but…” Jeff shrugged. “I dunno. They’re like two magnets. I mean, I’ve seen them be close, but… can’t they spend any time apart? Or would that kill them?”
A little smile curled Rick’s mouth. “Jeff, would you break up two people on their honeymoon?”
Jeff blinked. “What?”
“Look, you and I can never understand what those two are going through. But think about it… if you and another person were going to share every emotion you had… wouldn’t you want to spend time getting reacquainted? Katie and Jason have a connection that goes beyond anything else. It’s a bond. Right now, they’re trying to settle into all the new – and rather invasive – sensations they’re both feeling. It can be pleasurable because it’s what they need to survive, but it can also be downright irritating and frustrating. Whether they like it or not, it’s an extremely intimate experience, and they need time to adjust.”
Jeff sighed deeply. He didn’t understand, but he could at least sort of grasp Rick’s explanation. “I guess maybe I selfishly wanted to spend more time with her.”
“You’re not the only one,” Cindy admitted as she came over and set down a dish of scrambled eggs. She gave Wes an apologetic look before cringing a little at Rick. “I wanted to just be with my son and enjoy his company but… I guess maybe I’ve gotten a little bent out of shape myself.”
Rick nodded knowingly. “I’ve never been a parent, but I can imagine. Don’t worry though – either of you. I’m not letting them go back to Nevada until they’ve gained more control. Things will settle, and they’ll be able to pry themselves apart from each other again. They need to learn to function separately again too, so they can go back to their own daily lives. It’ll come… I’m sure of it.”
Walking hand-in-hand with Katie, Jason enjoyed the morning sun. They’d both felt good when waking up, which was such a relief in itself, that getting out and being in the fresh air was a no-brainer. They’d walked down the trail a while, then had looped back towards the barns. Not much had been said but… it didn’t need to be. Approaching the main barn, Jason squinted to make out Dylan, who was rinsing out some water buckets…
Dylan turned off the hose and wiped his hands on his jeans, just ready to go back in the barn when he saw Jason and Katie approaching. “Morning.”
Jason nodded. “Hey. Katie said you wanted to talk to us? Now a good time?”
Dylan glanced around, making sure they were alone before nodding. “Yeah. I just… had a question.”
There was much troubling the young man. That much Jason could see.
He’s really struggling with something, isn’t he?
“Okay… shoot.”
Dylan crossed his arms. “How could I get involved with the Elite?”
Jason’s eyes widened.
Okay, I wasn’t expecting that one.
“Involved? What… do you mean?”
“I dunno, I just…” Dylan shrugged. He looked to Jason, then his cousin, almost pleading. “Is there anything I could do? Or learn? Or… or be trained?”
Jason blinked. “You mean… you want to be an agent?”
Dylan swallowed hard. “Maybe.”
“Well, Dylan, I-”
“You started when you were younger than me, right?” Dylan interrupted. He looked back to Katie. “And you left the ranch to join them, right? So… so would there be a chance for me?”
Jason glanced to Katie, still surprised and confused.
I… am at a loss here. He obviously didn’t want anyone else around to have this conversation, which leads me to believe Mick doesn’t know. So… is he serious or is he running from something?
Really
As Zan brushed her arm and his hand took her own Destiny could feel a tingle that shoot up her arm. She didn't mind one bit and couldn't help but notice how soft Zan's hand was. With the work, he did she wouldn't expect that but it was a nice surprise. Letting her fingers just wrap around his Destiny continued walking.
"This has been a really nice evening. Thank you!"
Walking with Jason Katie stopped and followed where he was looking. Seeing Dylan she felt a small pang in her heart. She felt bad for him if he was lonely. It was no way to feel being that young but she feared there was nothing they could really do about it either.
I can't even start to guess what it might be. How about we get with him tomorrow before the anticipation becomes too much.
"Oh I am sure she is, but that's ok. I can't go to bed without a goodnight kiss."
Returning the kiss and soaking in the moment Ashlee finally broke away. She didn't mind kissing if her mom was watching but she didn't want to push it to far. Running her finger along Travis' face she smiled.
"Goonight Travis. I will see you bright and early."
"This has been a really nice evening. Thank you!"
Walking with Jason Katie stopped and followed where he was looking. Seeing Dylan she felt a small pang in her heart. She felt bad for him if he was lonely. It was no way to feel being that young but she feared there was nothing they could really do about it either.
I can't even start to guess what it might be. How about we get with him tomorrow before the anticipation becomes too much.
"Oh I am sure she is, but that's ok. I can't go to bed without a goodnight kiss."
Returning the kiss and soaking in the moment Ashlee finally broke away. She didn't mind kissing if her mom was watching but she didn't want to push it to far. Running her finger along Travis' face she smiled.
"Goonight Travis. I will see you bright and early."
Cautiously
Zan wasn't sure he could put his finger on whatever it was that made him smile, but whether he could label it or not, Destiny had it. Following her out and into the little park, he stood with her and looked up at the sky. There was enough light around that it was hard to see the stars, but a few twinkled here and there.
He glanced back down at her and had to chuckle. "Yeah, slowing down is... not something I'm very good at." He took a sip through the straw of his chocolate shake and sighed with content. "You're right though... This is nice."
Starting forward, his pace was slow, just letting the minutes pass gradually, while listening to the mixed sounds of traffic and crickets. As bored as he'd been with the movie, one might think this would be even worse. But for once... slowing down didn't seem so bad. Maybe it was the company.
Walking next to Destiny, his arm brushed hers. Then his hand. Without saying anything or even turning his gaze from the little path, he curled his fingers around hers, ever so cautiously.
Sam's arms around Hal felt... nice. Retreating after a moment, he nodded. "Thanks. I, um... might take you up on that."
Finally letting her go, he stood in the doorway to make sure she made it down the hall to the stairs. "Goodnight, Sam."
Jason hadn't thought of it that way before, and he wondered if it was true. Dylan seemed a lot more settled and a lot more mature - almost too much - since the last time he'd seen him. But that didn't mean he wasn't perhaps lonely. It couldn't be easy living out here in the middle of nowhere, especially if you were used to more activity.
With Katie winning the next round, then Travis then Katie again, it was finally time to call it a night. As they filtered out one by one, the tables were cleared, and the lights were turned off.
Walking hand in hand with Ashlee, Travis didn't walk too fast. It was getting late, and morning would come way too fast, but he didn't care. As they reached her bunkhouse, he stopped at the bottom of the porch and turned to her, smiling under the moonlight. "Think your mom is watching?" he teased. Regardless, he leaned down and gave her a warm kiss on her lips, letting it linger for just an extra moment or two.
Back at the main house, Dylan stood off the end of the porch, leaning back against the railing. His eyes were on the row of bunkhouse. One might have a hard time making out the figures a ways away, but Dylan knew good and well it was Travis and Ashlee, and he knew good and well they were kissing goodnight. And he hated the little twist in his stomach. He had no right to feel this way.
Walking with Katie towards the back path to go home, Jason paused their route as his eyes caught Dylan's figure, which was almost hidden in the shadows. Then he squinted to see what the young man might be looking at.
Hmm. I think you might be right about him... Still wonder what he wants to talk to us about, though.
He glanced back down at her and had to chuckle. "Yeah, slowing down is... not something I'm very good at." He took a sip through the straw of his chocolate shake and sighed with content. "You're right though... This is nice."
Starting forward, his pace was slow, just letting the minutes pass gradually, while listening to the mixed sounds of traffic and crickets. As bored as he'd been with the movie, one might think this would be even worse. But for once... slowing down didn't seem so bad. Maybe it was the company.
Walking next to Destiny, his arm brushed hers. Then his hand. Without saying anything or even turning his gaze from the little path, he curled his fingers around hers, ever so cautiously.
Sam's arms around Hal felt... nice. Retreating after a moment, he nodded. "Thanks. I, um... might take you up on that."
Finally letting her go, he stood in the doorway to make sure she made it down the hall to the stairs. "Goodnight, Sam."
Jason hadn't thought of it that way before, and he wondered if it was true. Dylan seemed a lot more settled and a lot more mature - almost too much - since the last time he'd seen him. But that didn't mean he wasn't perhaps lonely. It couldn't be easy living out here in the middle of nowhere, especially if you were used to more activity.
With Katie winning the next round, then Travis then Katie again, it was finally time to call it a night. As they filtered out one by one, the tables were cleared, and the lights were turned off.
Walking hand in hand with Ashlee, Travis didn't walk too fast. It was getting late, and morning would come way too fast, but he didn't care. As they reached her bunkhouse, he stopped at the bottom of the porch and turned to her, smiling under the moonlight. "Think your mom is watching?" he teased. Regardless, he leaned down and gave her a warm kiss on her lips, letting it linger for just an extra moment or two.
Back at the main house, Dylan stood off the end of the porch, leaning back against the railing. His eyes were on the row of bunkhouse. One might have a hard time making out the figures a ways away, but Dylan knew good and well it was Travis and Ashlee, and he knew good and well they were kissing goodnight. And he hated the little twist in his stomach. He had no right to feel this way.
Walking with Katie towards the back path to go home, Jason paused their route as his eyes caught Dylan's figure, which was almost hidden in the shadows. Then he squinted to see what the young man might be looking at.
Hmm. I think you might be right about him... Still wonder what he wants to talk to us about, though.
May 5, 2017
Nice
Walking to the door with Hal Sam was sad the night was over, but she hoped what had been a crappy day to him turned out to be a little better. She just hoped from here he could start going up and try to look at the positive side.
"It might not be what we planned, but I still had a nice day with you."
As Hal reached out and pulled her into a hug Sam was a little surprised but she quickly returned the hug so he didn't think she hated it. She like the hug, it was soft but strong, not to mention she could smell Hal better, and he sure did smell good.
"You are very welcome Hal. If you need a pick me up again just...give me a call anytime."
Getting to the ice cream shop and ordering their shakes Destiny really was happy they had chosen to do this. The time at the park was nice, and the movie was ok but just being them spending time together was nice too.
"Let's walk and drink. It's a nice night out, and the park looks really pretty."
Smiling as she passed Zan Destiny threw a look over her shoulder at Zan for him to follow. Walking a little ways and just looking around the warm breeze blew and she stopped for a second to just let it blow through her hair. Turning to Zan she just looked at him for a long moment.
"Sometimes it seems like the world is going by so fast that doing something like this is just nice."
Just watching Dylan for a long moment Kate nodded without even thinking about it. Feeling Jason's foot around hers she gave it a playful nudge. Dylan was always quiet, was there really something different there?
Maybe he is for more than one reason.
Katie glanced at Travis and Ashlee for a long moment before looking at her cards again.
Or maybe my Dad isn't the only one who is lonely.
"It might not be what we planned, but I still had a nice day with you."
As Hal reached out and pulled her into a hug Sam was a little surprised but she quickly returned the hug so he didn't think she hated it. She like the hug, it was soft but strong, not to mention she could smell Hal better, and he sure did smell good.
"You are very welcome Hal. If you need a pick me up again just...give me a call anytime."
Getting to the ice cream shop and ordering their shakes Destiny really was happy they had chosen to do this. The time at the park was nice, and the movie was ok but just being them spending time together was nice too.
"Let's walk and drink. It's a nice night out, and the park looks really pretty."
Smiling as she passed Zan Destiny threw a look over her shoulder at Zan for him to follow. Walking a little ways and just looking around the warm breeze blew and she stopped for a second to just let it blow through her hair. Turning to Zan she just looked at him for a long moment.
"Sometimes it seems like the world is going by so fast that doing something like this is just nice."
Just watching Dylan for a long moment Kate nodded without even thinking about it. Feeling Jason's foot around hers she gave it a playful nudge. Dylan was always quiet, was there really something different there?
Maybe he is for more than one reason.
Katie glanced at Travis and Ashlee for a long moment before looking at her cards again.
Or maybe my Dad isn't the only one who is lonely.
Take a Walk
Jason was still skeptical about Dylan.
Maybe. I dunno. Something feels just a little off. Not bad, just...off. Maybe you're right though. We kinda caused a stir.
Hearing Katie's comment, Jeff's eyes widened. "What?? What are you two talking about, huh?" A little color came to his cheeks as he rolled his eyes. He didn't like to think about how lonely he was - even here, surrounded by family. But finding another woman? He'd come to the conclusion it just wasn't in his cards. And speaking of cards. "Luke," he changed the subject, "you need to work on your dealing."
Luke smirked. "You're just a sore loser."
"I haven't lost yet!"
"Well c'mon then, smarty pants. You get to go first, remember? We haven't got all night."
Jason threw Katie a little grin. "Don't get too excited about your hand there... you might give yourself away without realizing it." He winked at her, again letting his humor seep through.
Dylan returned to the table with his lemonade and grabbed his cards. His eyes drifted over to Travis and Ashlee a moment before focusing again on the game. "Y'all are way to serious around here."
Jason wriggled his ankle around Katie's
Hmm. Do I detect a bit of jealousy there? Feels like there's more than one thing going on with your cousin there.
Throwing his wide-eyed look at Destiny, Zan bit his lip to keep from laughing again, and nodded. "I think milkshakes is a brilliant idea," he whispered. "Come on."
Stuffing the rest of his candy in his pocket, he stood and waited for her before grabbing both chairs to head back to the car. Once they were all loaded back up again and heading out, he chuckled. "It wasn't a bad movie.... just slow." He gave her a sheepish glance. "I was afraid I might fall asleep."
It didn't take long at all to pick a little ice cream place that was near a different, smaller park. Now that it was dark, the park was lit up with white lights in the trees, and warm lamps around the little path where benches were. As Zan held the door for Destiny to get their shakes, he looked across the street to the park. "Wanna sit in here or... wanna take a walk with our shakes?"
Hal gave Sam a rather embarrassed glance before shutting off the tv and standing up. "Maybe eventually I'll quit apologizing. But for now... just let me be sorry. It means I... I'm grateful for all you've done."
He let her take her time getting up, then wandered to the door with her. As he opened it though, he paused and just studied her for a moment. He was sleepy... but that didn't mean he didn't recognize what she'd done for him. She'd sacrificed her entire day just to make sure he was okay. And that... was special to him.
Before he could change his mind, he wrapped his arms around her in a warm hug. "Thank you... for just being here when I needed it."
Maybe. I dunno. Something feels just a little off. Not bad, just...off. Maybe you're right though. We kinda caused a stir.
Hearing Katie's comment, Jeff's eyes widened. "What?? What are you two talking about, huh?" A little color came to his cheeks as he rolled his eyes. He didn't like to think about how lonely he was - even here, surrounded by family. But finding another woman? He'd come to the conclusion it just wasn't in his cards. And speaking of cards. "Luke," he changed the subject, "you need to work on your dealing."
Luke smirked. "You're just a sore loser."
"I haven't lost yet!"
"Well c'mon then, smarty pants. You get to go first, remember? We haven't got all night."
Jason threw Katie a little grin. "Don't get too excited about your hand there... you might give yourself away without realizing it." He winked at her, again letting his humor seep through.
Dylan returned to the table with his lemonade and grabbed his cards. His eyes drifted over to Travis and Ashlee a moment before focusing again on the game. "Y'all are way to serious around here."
Jason wriggled his ankle around Katie's
Hmm. Do I detect a bit of jealousy there? Feels like there's more than one thing going on with your cousin there.
Throwing his wide-eyed look at Destiny, Zan bit his lip to keep from laughing again, and nodded. "I think milkshakes is a brilliant idea," he whispered. "Come on."
Stuffing the rest of his candy in his pocket, he stood and waited for her before grabbing both chairs to head back to the car. Once they were all loaded back up again and heading out, he chuckled. "It wasn't a bad movie.... just slow." He gave her a sheepish glance. "I was afraid I might fall asleep."
It didn't take long at all to pick a little ice cream place that was near a different, smaller park. Now that it was dark, the park was lit up with white lights in the trees, and warm lamps around the little path where benches were. As Zan held the door for Destiny to get their shakes, he looked across the street to the park. "Wanna sit in here or... wanna take a walk with our shakes?"
Hal gave Sam a rather embarrassed glance before shutting off the tv and standing up. "Maybe eventually I'll quit apologizing. But for now... just let me be sorry. It means I... I'm grateful for all you've done."
He let her take her time getting up, then wandered to the door with her. As he opened it though, he paused and just studied her for a moment. He was sleepy... but that didn't mean he didn't recognize what she'd done for him. She'd sacrificed her entire day just to make sure he was okay. And that... was special to him.
Before he could change his mind, he wrapped his arms around her in a warm hug. "Thank you... for just being here when I needed it."
Shakes
Maybe he is tired of being treated like a kid and left out of the loop. Things have been strange since we have been here this time around.
Looking at where Dylan went again Katie snapped her head back to the group when Jeff said something Katie laughed at Jason's comment of a woman and shook her head.
"I keep telling him he needs a woman but noooo...dont listen to your daughter."
Katie scrunched her nose playfully before looking down at her cards. Letting her eyes go wide she couldn't help but laugh at the four wilds, and three draw twos she had. Grinning she cleared her throat before looking to Jason and then the others.
"I never did have a good poker face."
Nudging Travis' foot with her own in return Ashlee grinned ear to ear. She still hadn't tired of the affection Travis showed her and her mom had finally warmed up to the idea of them dating, for the most part at least.
"I'm going to hold you to that."
Seeing the candy go soaring in the air Destiny's eyes went wide before looking at Zan and just blinking. She couldn't believe he had just done that but couldn't help the laugh that escaped her lips. She felt bad he seemed bored, but the movie was slow, even for her. Leaning over she elbowed him a little.
"How about we get out of here and get some milkshakes."
Searching Zan's face Destiny grinned a little bigger. Even if the movie was a bust she was having a fun time with Zan, and it felt nice to laugh.
"One before you get us in trouble, and two this movie is really kind of boring."
Sam woke as Hal moved around grinned.
"We need to work on you not saying sorry all the time."
Shifting a little she gave a stretch before just trying to wake up a little more from the sleepy state she had been in. She really had been comfortable.
"If I feel asleep in a different environment then I am used to I must be comfortable here. So thank you for making me feel at ease."
Looking at where Dylan went again Katie snapped her head back to the group when Jeff said something Katie laughed at Jason's comment of a woman and shook her head.
"I keep telling him he needs a woman but noooo...dont listen to your daughter."
Katie scrunched her nose playfully before looking down at her cards. Letting her eyes go wide she couldn't help but laugh at the four wilds, and three draw twos she had. Grinning she cleared her throat before looking to Jason and then the others.
"I never did have a good poker face."
Nudging Travis' foot with her own in return Ashlee grinned ear to ear. She still hadn't tired of the affection Travis showed her and her mom had finally warmed up to the idea of them dating, for the most part at least.
"I'm going to hold you to that."
Seeing the candy go soaring in the air Destiny's eyes went wide before looking at Zan and just blinking. She couldn't believe he had just done that but couldn't help the laugh that escaped her lips. She felt bad he seemed bored, but the movie was slow, even for her. Leaning over she elbowed him a little.
"How about we get out of here and get some milkshakes."
Searching Zan's face Destiny grinned a little bigger. Even if the movie was a bust she was having a fun time with Zan, and it felt nice to laugh.
"One before you get us in trouble, and two this movie is really kind of boring."
Sam woke as Hal moved around grinned.
"We need to work on you not saying sorry all the time."
Shifting a little she gave a stretch before just trying to wake up a little more from the sleepy state she had been in. She really had been comfortable.
"If I feel asleep in a different environment then I am used to I must be comfortable here. So thank you for making me feel at ease."
Incredibly Hard
That's interesting.
Jason's eyes glanced to where Dylan was going into the kitchen.
He's been looking at us kinda strange all night. I've been trying to figure it out, but he's incredibly hard to read.
"Hey!" Jeff threw a crumpled napkin at Jason. "So which is it?"
Jason's attention snapped back over to the game. "Which is what?"
We've gotta get your dad a girl. He needs someone else to pick on.
Jason snaked his ankle around Katie's under the table, the intensity of his humorous emotions increasing as they made contact.
Jeff rolled his eyes. "Never mind."
Travis grimaced at the cards he was being dealt, and threw Ashlee a withering look. "So much for knocking their socks off. I hope you got better cards than I do." He stifled a yawn and shook his head. "I'm not sure I can even last another round."
His foot tapped hers and he grinned, lowering his voice. "Walk you to your bunk later..."
Seeing he'd pleased Destiny, Zan's smile grew. "You're welcome." He settled back and revealed his own treat - hot tamales.
As the movie started, the lawn grew quieter. It was a good enough show... a little slow for Zan's tastes but he wasn't going to complain. The plot did seem to drag on a bit though, and he found himself getting more and more fidgety. His boredom finally got the best of him.
Taking a piece of candy between his fingers, he kept it low so nobody would see, then flicked it in the air. It was just light enough out still to see it arc high before coming down in someone's lap a short distance in front of them. The person jumped and flailed their arms - probably assuming they'd just been attacked by a flying insect - and looked around in bewilderment before focusing back on the movie.
Zan's eyes were huge and he sank down a little further in his chair, trying hard not to laugh. He stuffed another couple hot tamales in his mouth and purposely didn't look at Destiny for fear he'd burst out laughing.
The credits rolled. The music faded. And the silence in the apartment roused Hal's senses. Somehow in his sleep, he'd wound up turned, using Sam as a full pillow with his arm around her. Only realizing now the kind of position he was in, he moved quickly to release her. "Sorry," he mumbled as he sat up, feeling heat in his face. "Guess I... really did fall asleep."
He fumbled to find the television remote and stopped the dvd before it looped back to the menu. Daring a little glance at Sam, he hoped he hadn't made her feel awkward. He hadn't meant to at all.
Before
Katie was having a good night with everyone and really enjoyed just being normal again. Well, at least her and Jason's normal. It was nice that everyone wasn't so worried, and they were actually feeling good too. Laughing, joking, smiling...it was definitely missed.
As Dylan got up and moved passed her stopping to talk Katie looked at him with question but nodded. She wasn't sure what he wanted to talk to them about but she would. She liked Dyaln and the fact he wanted to talk to them mean something right?
Dylan said he wanted to talk to us before we go. Not sure about what.
Getting their spot and sitting down it was a decent one. The lawn chairs were actually kind of comfortable too. Destiny wouldn't complain and it was good company to boot. What more could she ask for honestly?
Giving a no to Zan as he left to go back to the car she wondered what he was getting but stayed seated. When he finally came back she smiled and seeing the sour patch kids her smile widened. He actully remembered what kind of candy she liked and it made her feel even better.
"Yep, you are totally a keeper. Thank you."
Sam chuckled again as she put her arm around Hal. She didn't mind he fell asleep again it actually made her feel good that he was that comfortable with her that he fell asleep with ease. Shifting a little and getting comfortable herself Sam continued the movie.
Maybe she'd gotten too comfortable but as the movie played on Sam's eyes grew heavy and soon she was fast asleep her head on Hal's.
As Dylan got up and moved passed her stopping to talk Katie looked at him with question but nodded. She wasn't sure what he wanted to talk to them about but she would. She liked Dyaln and the fact he wanted to talk to them mean something right?
Dylan said he wanted to talk to us before we go. Not sure about what.
Getting their spot and sitting down it was a decent one. The lawn chairs were actually kind of comfortable too. Destiny wouldn't complain and it was good company to boot. What more could she ask for honestly?
Giving a no to Zan as he left to go back to the car she wondered what he was getting but stayed seated. When he finally came back she smiled and seeing the sour patch kids her smile widened. He actully remembered what kind of candy she liked and it made her feel even better.
"Yep, you are totally a keeper. Thank you."
Sam chuckled again as she put her arm around Hal. She didn't mind he fell asleep again it actually made her feel good that he was that comfortable with her that he fell asleep with ease. Shifting a little and getting comfortable herself Sam continued the movie.
Maybe she'd gotten too comfortable but as the movie played on Sam's eyes grew heavy and soon she was fast asleep her head on Hal's.
May 4, 2017
Blue
"Hmm?" Hal pried his eyes open halfway and gave Sam a sleepy look. Realizing what had just happened, he gave her a sheepish grin. "Sorry... guess I'm more tired than I thought." He stifled a yawn and nestled down in the couch a little farther. He shifted a bit until he was leaning against Sam, his head resting just on the edge of her shoulder. Sighing deeply, he tried to keep his eyes open and focused on the television, but it was nearly impossible. "Don't let me sleep through the last battle," he mumbled.
"Let it go? Are you kidding?" Zan spit out another little piece of grass, still grinning, and brushed off his jeans. "Never." Now with Destiny on the ground with him, he just looked at her for a moment, realizing just how blue her eyes were as the evening sun bounced off them.
Dropping his gaze, he cleared his throat and got to his feet, offering her a hand up as well. "I suppose we should grab the chair and get us a couple good spots to watch the movie," he mused. It was a little quieter now that it was close to dark - there were fewer kids, but there was still a good crowd. He helped get the rest of the stuff from their picnic back in the car, then carried the chairs to where the movie screen was, letting Destiny pick the spot. Once settled side-by-side in their chairs, it wasn't long before the movie began. It looked to be a family-friendly feel-good sort of film.
Leaning over closer to Destiny, Zan whispered in her ear. "I forgot something. Be right back." Slipping away, he ran to the car, and was back in just a couple minutes, trying not to get in anyone's way. Once back in his chair, he handed her a little package of sour patch kids and tossed her a wink as he grinned.
"Yes!" Jason played his last card and threw his arms in the air. His eyes shot over to Jeff. "You were saying?"
"Oh, shut up." Jeff smirked before glancing across at Katie. "Where'd you dig him up at anyway?"
Jason just laughed. "Don't blame her. Blame the Agency. If it wasn't for them, I never would have come to the ranch in the first place."
"Yeah, yeah." Jeff rattled the ice in his cup around before tipping it up to grab a piece in his mouth and suck on it.
Once Jason and Katie had returned from their walk, word had spread quickly that they were on the mend. No one really knew what that meant for sure, but the atmosphere was already much lighter. Staying up late for some UNO was a good way to assure everyone that they really were okay, and... it offered some more fun, too. Even Mick and Rosetta had stuck around for a short while before going home like usual.
Luke snickered and gathered up the cards for his turn to shuffle and deal. He didn't usually stay up late, but he was having a good evening, so was going to take advantage of it, since he hadn't even gotten out of bed until almost noon today.
Travis nudged Ashlee with his elbow. "We got 'em next round." He shot a look at Jason and Katie. "They're cheating. I know it."
"Cheating?!" Jason's eyes widened and he glanced beside himself at Katie. "I don't see any cheaters? Do you?"
At the far end, Dylan also sat to play, but had been fairly quiet. There wasn't quite as much tension when he and Travis were in the same room, but he usually fell silent, especially when Travis and Ashlee were together. It hadn't kept him from joining the card game tonight though, but now, his focus was mainly on Jason and Katie, whom he'd been studying for a while now. Seeing he was out of lemonade, he stood to go get some more. As he passed behind Katie, he stopped and bend a little to speak quietly only to her. "Sometime before you guys leave the ranch... I wanna talk to you... okay?"
"Let it go? Are you kidding?" Zan spit out another little piece of grass, still grinning, and brushed off his jeans. "Never." Now with Destiny on the ground with him, he just looked at her for a moment, realizing just how blue her eyes were as the evening sun bounced off them.
Dropping his gaze, he cleared his throat and got to his feet, offering her a hand up as well. "I suppose we should grab the chair and get us a couple good spots to watch the movie," he mused. It was a little quieter now that it was close to dark - there were fewer kids, but there was still a good crowd. He helped get the rest of the stuff from their picnic back in the car, then carried the chairs to where the movie screen was, letting Destiny pick the spot. Once settled side-by-side in their chairs, it wasn't long before the movie began. It looked to be a family-friendly feel-good sort of film.
Leaning over closer to Destiny, Zan whispered in her ear. "I forgot something. Be right back." Slipping away, he ran to the car, and was back in just a couple minutes, trying not to get in anyone's way. Once back in his chair, he handed her a little package of sour patch kids and tossed her a wink as he grinned.
"Yes!" Jason played his last card and threw his arms in the air. His eyes shot over to Jeff. "You were saying?"
"Oh, shut up." Jeff smirked before glancing across at Katie. "Where'd you dig him up at anyway?"
Jason just laughed. "Don't blame her. Blame the Agency. If it wasn't for them, I never would have come to the ranch in the first place."
"Yeah, yeah." Jeff rattled the ice in his cup around before tipping it up to grab a piece in his mouth and suck on it.
Once Jason and Katie had returned from their walk, word had spread quickly that they were on the mend. No one really knew what that meant for sure, but the atmosphere was already much lighter. Staying up late for some UNO was a good way to assure everyone that they really were okay, and... it offered some more fun, too. Even Mick and Rosetta had stuck around for a short while before going home like usual.
Luke snickered and gathered up the cards for his turn to shuffle and deal. He didn't usually stay up late, but he was having a good evening, so was going to take advantage of it, since he hadn't even gotten out of bed until almost noon today.
Travis nudged Ashlee with his elbow. "We got 'em next round." He shot a look at Jason and Katie. "They're cheating. I know it."
"Cheating?!" Jason's eyes widened and he glanced beside himself at Katie. "I don't see any cheaters? Do you?"
At the far end, Dylan also sat to play, but had been fairly quiet. There wasn't quite as much tension when he and Travis were in the same room, but he usually fell silent, especially when Travis and Ashlee were together. It hadn't kept him from joining the card game tonight though, but now, his focus was mainly on Jason and Katie, whom he'd been studying for a while now. Seeing he was out of lemonade, he stood to go get some more. As he passed behind Katie, he stopped and bend a little to speak quietly only to her. "Sometime before you guys leave the ranch... I wanna talk to you... okay?"
Maybe
Laughing at the funny part of the movie Sam looked over at Hal. Seeing him falling asleep and his coke about to spill she reached over brushing his hand and grabbing it. Giving a smile and laughing she wondered if he was awake, or sleep still.
"Maybe we should call it a night before we have a soda disaster."
Hearing Zan's confidence Destiny was happy at least he had a little faith in her that she could throw the frisbee. Trying again and doing the same thing Destiny didn't give up and kept trying. Finally, she got the hang of it and was ready to try doing it between them.
Laughing and joking around Destiny was happy she had decided to do this. Watching as Zan dived for the frisbee and he went face first into the grass she couldn't help but start laughing again. Coming over to him and kneeling down next to him she cocked her head a little and laughed again.
"That you did get it. Are you ok, you should of just let it go."
"Maybe we should call it a night before we have a soda disaster."
Hearing Zan's confidence Destiny was happy at least he had a little faith in her that she could throw the frisbee. Trying again and doing the same thing Destiny didn't give up and kept trying. Finally, she got the hang of it and was ready to try doing it between them.
Laughing and joking around Destiny was happy she had decided to do this. Watching as Zan dived for the frisbee and he went face first into the grass she couldn't help but start laughing again. Coming over to him and kneeling down next to him she cocked her head a little and laughed again.
"That you did get it. Are you ok, you should of just let it go."
May 3, 2017
Dangerously
Hal smiled a little, glad that Sam agreed to stay. She'd been over for supper once before, but after today's events, he hadn't been so sure she'd want to stay even longer. "Okay. Let me go call for the pizza and then I'll pick a movie," he agreed.
It didn't take long at all for the pizza to arrive, and he had some coke in the fridge which he got out as well. Eating casually with paper plates in the living room was nice, and Pirates of the Caribbean gave them just enough action with just enough humor to keep it light.
Before he knew it though, Hal's eyes started to become very heavy. Halfway through the movie, he kept trying to stay awake, but he was just too exhausted from the stressful events of the day. And without realizing it, he'd drifted off, his half can of coke tilting dangerously in his hand.
Zan couldn't contain his laughter. He wasn't trying to make fun of Destiny, it was just her effort and humor were delightful. He grabbed the frisbee and gave it back to her so she could try again. "Once you get it, you're gonna be awesome. I have a sixth sense about these things." He tossed her a wink before standing back so she could try again.
After she'd gotten the hang of it, Zan walked just a short distance away so they could throw it back and forth. The activity itself brought on more laughter as neither one of them were really that good at it, and every time Zan made a bad throw and she had to go after the disc, he apologized. He did try over his shoulder or around his back or under his leg a few times, failing miserably, but at least providing more entertainment.
Watching as another pass came his way, he realized the frisbee was going way off course. As he sprinted to catch it, the frisbee headed for the ground, and in a desperate attempt, he dove for it, sliding across the ground and barely catching it with his finger tips. Breathing heavily in the grass, he held up the disc in triumph, though his face was rather red from exertion and just a tad bit of embarrassment.
Grinning as he sat up, he spat out some grass that had somehow ended up in his mouth. "Got it!" he shouted. Staying where he was, he let it fly back towards Destiny.
It didn't take long at all for the pizza to arrive, and he had some coke in the fridge which he got out as well. Eating casually with paper plates in the living room was nice, and Pirates of the Caribbean gave them just enough action with just enough humor to keep it light.
Before he knew it though, Hal's eyes started to become very heavy. Halfway through the movie, he kept trying to stay awake, but he was just too exhausted from the stressful events of the day. And without realizing it, he'd drifted off, his half can of coke tilting dangerously in his hand.
Zan couldn't contain his laughter. He wasn't trying to make fun of Destiny, it was just her effort and humor were delightful. He grabbed the frisbee and gave it back to her so she could try again. "Once you get it, you're gonna be awesome. I have a sixth sense about these things." He tossed her a wink before standing back so she could try again.
After she'd gotten the hang of it, Zan walked just a short distance away so they could throw it back and forth. The activity itself brought on more laughter as neither one of them were really that good at it, and every time Zan made a bad throw and she had to go after the disc, he apologized. He did try over his shoulder or around his back or under his leg a few times, failing miserably, but at least providing more entertainment.
Watching as another pass came his way, he realized the frisbee was going way off course. As he sprinted to catch it, the frisbee headed for the ground, and in a desperate attempt, he dove for it, sliding across the ground and barely catching it with his finger tips. Breathing heavily in the grass, he held up the disc in triumph, though his face was rather red from exertion and just a tad bit of embarrassment.
Grinning as he sat up, he spat out some grass that had somehow ended up in his mouth. "Got it!" he shouted. Staying where he was, he let it fly back towards Destiny.
Lots Of
Sam blushed a little as she leaned over to look at the rest of the book with Hal. Time seemed to tick on maybe a little faster than either of them realized. She didn't mind though even if the day had turned out differently then planned. It was still fun, there was laughing, more talking and she was glad to be here.
Hearing Hel's stomach growl her own followed suit and she looked to him grinning. Food had been forgotten most of the day not that she minded. But the mention of food now did sound good.
"I think ordering pizza sounds like a good plan to me. Maybe we can find a good movie one to watch too, or we can just watch one from your collection. You get to pick this time though."
Standing and following Zan Destiny was eager to learn. Watching him she took it in before having him come behind her and putting his arm around her to try and learn. It didn't seem to hard, but it was definitely a practice makes perfect kind of thing.
"Let's practice a little."
Taking the frisbee and taking a shot it just soared straight into the ground. Looking at Zan and then back at the frisbee then Zan again she shook her head an laughed.
"I think I need lots of practice!"
Hearing Hel's stomach growl her own followed suit and she looked to him grinning. Food had been forgotten most of the day not that she minded. But the mention of food now did sound good.
"I think ordering pizza sounds like a good plan to me. Maybe we can find a good movie one to watch too, or we can just watch one from your collection. You get to pick this time though."
Standing and following Zan Destiny was eager to learn. Watching him she took it in before having him come behind her and putting his arm around her to try and learn. It didn't seem to hard, but it was definitely a practice makes perfect kind of thing.
"Let's practice a little."
Taking the frisbee and taking a shot it just soared straight into the ground. Looking at Zan and then back at the frisbee then Zan again she shook her head an laughed.
"I think I need lots of practice!"
Practice
Hal just rolled his eyes at Sam's complement, glad she put the focus back onto herself. He grinned and turned to look at her a moment, trying to imagine a younger version with braces. A chuckle slipped out. "I definitely need to see a picture of that. I have a hard time believing you and 'train wreck' belong in the same sentence."
Going through the rest of the album took up some more time, and soon, the light outside was beginning to change, signalling evening was close. Still on the couch, still next to Sam, Hal's feet were up on the coffee table as he half watched a show on tv about seeing eye dogs. His stomach growling broke the atmosphere though, and he swiveled his head to give Sam a sheepish look. "I guess... maybe I'm hungry."
He searched her eyes for a moment and inwardly cringed. He'd kept her here all day, and he felt bad about it. Especially since they'd had such a different kind of day planned in the first place. Though he was still quite upset about Alison, he felt better on the surface, and at least wasn't as miserable as earlier. He was emotionally drained though, so any thought of going out was tiring in itself. But if he were really honest with himself... he really didn't feel like being alone just yet.
"Would you... like to stay for supper? We could... order pizza out or something... if you want?"
Zan's eyes twinkled as he nodded. "Of course." Getting to his feet, he then jogged back to the car to grab his frisbee out of the trunk, then returned. "Come on." He grinned as he aimed for a nearby disc golf basket to start out. "New fad is disc golf, but I just like throwing it back and forth. But first, just to practice..." He stood in front of Destiny and showed her how to hold the frisbee, and how he used his wrist to flick it forward. After he released it, it drifted softly into the basket. Turning around, he gave her a sheepish look. "I don't always have the best of aim, so I apologize in advance."
He retrieved the frisbee and came back, this time, coming around behind her. He set one hand on her shoulder, and his other arm came around her to place his hand over hers, letting her hold the frisbee. He moved her hand to direct her. "It's all in the wrist with these things. So you just, curl back..." He gently moved her hand into the right position. "Then aim at your target and... throw it." The frisbee didn't land in the basket, but it at least bounced off the rim.
Looking over her shoulder at her, he grinned. "I think I'm the one who messed that one up. Wanna practice a few, then we can throw it back and forth?"
Going through the rest of the album took up some more time, and soon, the light outside was beginning to change, signalling evening was close. Still on the couch, still next to Sam, Hal's feet were up on the coffee table as he half watched a show on tv about seeing eye dogs. His stomach growling broke the atmosphere though, and he swiveled his head to give Sam a sheepish look. "I guess... maybe I'm hungry."
He searched her eyes for a moment and inwardly cringed. He'd kept her here all day, and he felt bad about it. Especially since they'd had such a different kind of day planned in the first place. Though he was still quite upset about Alison, he felt better on the surface, and at least wasn't as miserable as earlier. He was emotionally drained though, so any thought of going out was tiring in itself. But if he were really honest with himself... he really didn't feel like being alone just yet.
"Would you... like to stay for supper? We could... order pizza out or something... if you want?"
Zan's eyes twinkled as he nodded. "Of course." Getting to his feet, he then jogged back to the car to grab his frisbee out of the trunk, then returned. "Come on." He grinned as he aimed for a nearby disc golf basket to start out. "New fad is disc golf, but I just like throwing it back and forth. But first, just to practice..." He stood in front of Destiny and showed her how to hold the frisbee, and how he used his wrist to flick it forward. After he released it, it drifted softly into the basket. Turning around, he gave her a sheepish look. "I don't always have the best of aim, so I apologize in advance."
He retrieved the frisbee and came back, this time, coming around behind her. He set one hand on her shoulder, and his other arm came around her to place his hand over hers, letting her hold the frisbee. He moved her hand to direct her. "It's all in the wrist with these things. So you just, curl back..." He gently moved her hand into the right position. "Then aim at your target and... throw it." The frisbee didn't land in the basket, but it at least bounced off the rim.
Looking over her shoulder at her, he grinned. "I think I'm the one who messed that one up. Wanna practice a few, then we can throw it back and forth?"
May 2, 2017
Show Me
Destiny's cheeks went a little red at the compliment but was very thankful Zan thought her cooking was good. She always thought her mom was the best cook, and she learned from her, so it must have been true. It was nice to have that little piece of her with her still.
For a moment Destiny gained a far away look as she thought about her parents. They hadn't been gone long but she wondered if they would be proud of her. She knew they would like Zan. He was nice and treated her good already and they were still getting to know each other. Realizing he'd asked her a question Destiny smiled and then shook her head.
"I haven't. I don't even know if I know how to throw one. Can you show me?"
The afternoon went smooth and quickly not that Sam minded. It was nice just being with Hal chatting. He did most of the talking and she was ok with that. Maybe it would help for him to just talk and get everything he needed top off his chest and she didn't mind at all.
As they looked through the picture and laughed at home it was fun hearing each story. She really enjoyed it and enjoyed learning more about Hal. Coming to the picture he put his hands over Sam grinned before moving his hands and looking at high graduation picture. A grin formed even bigger on her lips.
"Well look at that, you went from good looking to downright handsome if I do say so myself. I'll have to pull out my high school pictures if you want to see a train wreck. Braces and all."
For a moment Destiny gained a far away look as she thought about her parents. They hadn't been gone long but she wondered if they would be proud of her. She knew they would like Zan. He was nice and treated her good already and they were still getting to know each other. Realizing he'd asked her a question Destiny smiled and then shook her head.
"I haven't. I don't even know if I know how to throw one. Can you show me?"
The afternoon went smooth and quickly not that Sam minded. It was nice just being with Hal chatting. He did most of the talking and she was ok with that. Maybe it would help for him to just talk and get everything he needed top off his chest and she didn't mind at all.
As they looked through the picture and laughed at home it was fun hearing each story. She really enjoyed it and enjoyed learning more about Hal. Coming to the picture he put his hands over Sam grinned before moving his hands and looking at high graduation picture. A grin formed even bigger on her lips.
"Well look at that, you went from good looking to downright handsome if I do say so myself. I'll have to pull out my high school pictures if you want to see a train wreck. Braces and all."
Food Poisoning
"Maybe that's part of what's so hard," Hal admitted. "Fear that I'm gonna be too far away to mend her wounds." He paused for a long moment before giving a scoff. "Not that Michelle would let me help anyway. A couple years ago, Alison almost drown, and I got a next day flight to Florida. When I got there, I had to fight just to see her in the hospital." He rolled his eyes. "I feel like this is my punishment for marrying Michelle in the first place. Got a daughter to love, but I'm not allowed to be involved."
Still keeping his hand in Sam's, he sighed. "I had just a short few years with her... I've missed out on so much since then." His eyes gained a far away look. "I was thrilled ya know... when she was born..." He went on to tell Sam about that day. How excited but petrified he'd been. How he'd pretend to be asleep sometimes so he wouldn't have to get up yet again in the middle of the night. How Alison's first word had been "fish," much to Michelle's dismay. How she'd taken her first steps. How heroically he'd survived his first trip to the grocery store with her alone... and wound up getting half the wrong things.
Perhaps it was a much-needed therapy session, even if he didn't realize it. Just talking about Alison helped, and reminded him that there had been some good, in between all the bad. Somewhere along the way, they returned to the kitchen to finish their sandwiches, washed the dishes, went back to the living room, looked through some fishing gear he explained to her, and found a documentary to watch on tv that they only partially watched while talking...
..."Ah. This was my uncle's fortieth birthday party." Hal sat with Sam on the couch, close enough their shoulders touched so he could go through the old photo album with her. He chuckled at the memory. "The whole family's always been messed up, but they do know how to have a cookout. I wound up with three bee stings, mud-soaked shoes, and what I'm pretty sure was food poisoning."
He rolled his eyes and turned the page where he immediately slapped his hand down over the picture of his high school graduation. "You don't need to see that one." He'd always hated that picture of him in his cap and gown. "I barely graduated anyway."
Zan quirked an eyebrow as he took a bite and chewed skeptically. He couldn't contain his grin though. "Well... I don't know what kind of cook your mom was... but I definitely know what kind of cook you are and you're a keeper."
Just enjoying the food and the sunshine, Zan was completely relaxed. It was a little noisy at times with all the people, but one could easily ignore it if they wanted.
Lying on his side, propped up on an elbow, Zan fiddled with a piece of grass between his fingers. It would be a little while yet until the next movie, so they had time to kill. His eyes found a nearby open grassy area and a new smile emerged. "Ever play frisbee?"
Still keeping his hand in Sam's, he sighed. "I had just a short few years with her... I've missed out on so much since then." His eyes gained a far away look. "I was thrilled ya know... when she was born..." He went on to tell Sam about that day. How excited but petrified he'd been. How he'd pretend to be asleep sometimes so he wouldn't have to get up yet again in the middle of the night. How Alison's first word had been "fish," much to Michelle's dismay. How she'd taken her first steps. How heroically he'd survived his first trip to the grocery store with her alone... and wound up getting half the wrong things.
Perhaps it was a much-needed therapy session, even if he didn't realize it. Just talking about Alison helped, and reminded him that there had been some good, in between all the bad. Somewhere along the way, they returned to the kitchen to finish their sandwiches, washed the dishes, went back to the living room, looked through some fishing gear he explained to her, and found a documentary to watch on tv that they only partially watched while talking...
..."Ah. This was my uncle's fortieth birthday party." Hal sat with Sam on the couch, close enough their shoulders touched so he could go through the old photo album with her. He chuckled at the memory. "The whole family's always been messed up, but they do know how to have a cookout. I wound up with three bee stings, mud-soaked shoes, and what I'm pretty sure was food poisoning."
He rolled his eyes and turned the page where he immediately slapped his hand down over the picture of his high school graduation. "You don't need to see that one." He'd always hated that picture of him in his cap and gown. "I barely graduated anyway."
Zan quirked an eyebrow as he took a bite and chewed skeptically. He couldn't contain his grin though. "Well... I don't know what kind of cook your mom was... but I definitely know what kind of cook you are and you're a keeper."
Just enjoying the food and the sunshine, Zan was completely relaxed. It was a little noisy at times with all the people, but one could easily ignore it if they wanted.
Lying on his side, propped up on an elbow, Zan fiddled with a piece of grass between his fingers. It would be a little while yet until the next movie, so they had time to kill. His eyes found a nearby open grassy area and a new smile emerged. "Ever play frisbee?"
Enjoy
As Hal just ran his fingers over Sam's hand a tingle ran up her arm almost like an electric. It felt nice having him just touch her so softly. Bring her mind back to what they were talking about this was no time to think about how she was feeling. It was more important that Hal was going to be ok.
"I don't think Allison could ever forget you. You are her father, and no matter what she does love you. Giving her room to stretch her wings is not a bad thing, it's just hard to do as a parent."
Giving a soft smile again she hoped she was at least helping a little. He seemed to be relaxing a little more.
"I've never been a parent so I don't know how it works, but I think one of the best things you can do for a child is let them grow, and then when and if they fall, you are there to mend their wounds."
Finding a nice spot to sit Destiny thought it was perfect. Opening the basket and pulling everything out along with some plates she helped set everything up. It wasn't the most amazing meal but it was of her favorites.
"This is what my mom use to always make me as a kid. She was an amazing cook. I think that's why I love cooking now. Enjoy!"
"I don't think Allison could ever forget you. You are her father, and no matter what she does love you. Giving her room to stretch her wings is not a bad thing, it's just hard to do as a parent."
Giving a soft smile again she hoped she was at least helping a little. He seemed to be relaxing a little more.
"I've never been a parent so I don't know how it works, but I think one of the best things you can do for a child is let them grow, and then when and if they fall, you are there to mend their wounds."
Finding a nice spot to sit Destiny thought it was perfect. Opening the basket and pulling everything out along with some plates she helped set everything up. It wasn't the most amazing meal but it was of her favorites.
"This is what my mom use to always make me as a kid. She was an amazing cook. I think that's why I love cooking now. Enjoy!"
Too Good to be True
As Sam took Hal's hand, it sent a gentle wave of peace through him, slowly helping him relax. His feet eventually slid off the couch to rest on the floor again, proving the tension was lessening. Even though his gaze remained on the ceiling, he did listen, and for a few moments he was simply quiet. Maybe she was right. Maybe he did have to give more than he had been, and just trust that Alison really was happy and doing what she wanted.
His eyes drifted down to look at their hands. Ever so slowly, he flattened his fingers until their palms rested against each other. Gently he turned his hand, just feeling her soft touch, then let his fingers trace her own, running his fingertips along her knuckles, around her thumb, then back to her palm where he softly held her hand again.
"Can you imagine me in an international airport?" His eyes rose to meet hers, and a little grin showed itself at the corner of his mouth. "I'd be an anxious wreck." He sighed and shifted to sit a little more sideways to face her, and rested his head on the back of the couch. "Maybe I have been holding on to Alison too tightly," he admitted. "I just... I hardly see her even once a year the way it is and... it's just even harder to travel to another country. Maybe I'm imagining things but..." He swallowed hard. "I dunno... I just have this feeling Alison's on her way to drawing further and further away from me and... becoming more like her mother."
He shrugged. "Not saying I won't try to go visit her, because I think that's more probable than her coming back here... just not sure I could even handle it, which... leaves little hope of... much of anything."
Seeing how pleased Destiny was with the flowers made Zan feel good. He was glad he'd chosen something she'd like. Hearing about their food, his eyes lit up. "Oh man... I'm starting to worry you're gonna end up too good to be true." His smile returned, making little crinkles at the corners of his eyes. "I'd say we're more than ready for a picnic."
He picked up the basket so she wouldn't have to carry it, and followed her outside, leading the way to his borrowed car. It didn't take long to reach the park where there were many people scattered all about. Adults and children alike were mingling, walking, running, playing ball and simply having fun. There were vendors around, some selling food, others selling crafts. At one end, a large screen had been erected where they were showing movies, although after dark it would be seen best.
Zan parked in a little gravel lot where there was less traffic, then helped Destiny get all the stuff out of the car. Finding a spot in the grass that was a bit quieter, he set the chairs aside and spread the blanket on the ground before sitting close to Destiny. "Okay... let's see how good these sandwiches of yours are before my stomach eats itself." He... may have skipped lunch again today.
His eyes drifted down to look at their hands. Ever so slowly, he flattened his fingers until their palms rested against each other. Gently he turned his hand, just feeling her soft touch, then let his fingers trace her own, running his fingertips along her knuckles, around her thumb, then back to her palm where he softly held her hand again.
"Can you imagine me in an international airport?" His eyes rose to meet hers, and a little grin showed itself at the corner of his mouth. "I'd be an anxious wreck." He sighed and shifted to sit a little more sideways to face her, and rested his head on the back of the couch. "Maybe I have been holding on to Alison too tightly," he admitted. "I just... I hardly see her even once a year the way it is and... it's just even harder to travel to another country. Maybe I'm imagining things but..." He swallowed hard. "I dunno... I just have this feeling Alison's on her way to drawing further and further away from me and... becoming more like her mother."
He shrugged. "Not saying I won't try to go visit her, because I think that's more probable than her coming back here... just not sure I could even handle it, which... leaves little hope of... much of anything."
Seeing how pleased Destiny was with the flowers made Zan feel good. He was glad he'd chosen something she'd like. Hearing about their food, his eyes lit up. "Oh man... I'm starting to worry you're gonna end up too good to be true." His smile returned, making little crinkles at the corners of his eyes. "I'd say we're more than ready for a picnic."
He picked up the basket so she wouldn't have to carry it, and followed her outside, leading the way to his borrowed car. It didn't take long to reach the park where there were many people scattered all about. Adults and children alike were mingling, walking, running, playing ball and simply having fun. There were vendors around, some selling food, others selling crafts. At one end, a large screen had been erected where they were showing movies, although after dark it would be seen best.
Zan parked in a little gravel lot where there was less traffic, then helped Destiny get all the stuff out of the car. Finding a spot in the grass that was a bit quieter, he set the chairs aside and spread the blanket on the ground before sitting close to Destiny. "Okay... let's see how good these sandwiches of yours are before my stomach eats itself." He... may have skipped lunch again today.
Strawberrys
Just staying on the couch Sam waiting for Hal to come back. Hearing his sorry once again he took his hand and just held it for a long moment. A stern look on here face. She hated he kept saying sorry when he didnt need too.
"Stop saying you're sorry. If I can't be here for you in the hard times, I don't deserve to be with you in the good times too. It's my please to be here for you."
Continuing to just listen Sam leaned back against the couch and turned so she was looking at Hal still. Listing about what Allison said she could see where they both were coming from and she felt bad.
"I dont think her mom is giving her more then you could, but I don't think there is a miss understanding between you too. She is having a hard time when seeing where you are coming from, and you are having a hard time with letting her go. I don't have kids, so I don't know how it is but I don't think she is going to hate you. As long as she knows you love her, thats all the matters."
Sam cocked her head to look at Hal better and smiled a little more.
"Maybe a little more planning will be needed for visits now but that's nothing major. You can go to see her, or she can come back an see you. You going there sounds like a pretty amazing adventure to me, don't you think?"
"Honestly, I don't know what to expect either. It will be a new adventure for us both,"
Seeing the daisy's Destiny smiled as she took them from Zan. Going to one of the cabinets she grabbed a vase an put a little water into it before placing the flowers in as well.
"A man after my heart for sure. My favorite soda, and flowers. Thank you, they are beautiful."
Setting the flowers on the table and looking at them for a long moment the smile stayed on her face. They really were very pretty. She loved them. Turning back to the basket an Zan her eyes twinkled.
"So I hope you like Egg Salad. I also back some chips, and fresh strawberrys too."
"Stop saying you're sorry. If I can't be here for you in the hard times, I don't deserve to be with you in the good times too. It's my please to be here for you."
Continuing to just listen Sam leaned back against the couch and turned so she was looking at Hal still. Listing about what Allison said she could see where they both were coming from and she felt bad.
"I dont think her mom is giving her more then you could, but I don't think there is a miss understanding between you too. She is having a hard time when seeing where you are coming from, and you are having a hard time with letting her go. I don't have kids, so I don't know how it is but I don't think she is going to hate you. As long as she knows you love her, thats all the matters."
Sam cocked her head to look at Hal better and smiled a little more.
"Maybe a little more planning will be needed for visits now but that's nothing major. You can go to see her, or she can come back an see you. You going there sounds like a pretty amazing adventure to me, don't you think?"
"Honestly, I don't know what to expect either. It will be a new adventure for us both,"
Seeing the daisy's Destiny smiled as she took them from Zan. Going to one of the cabinets she grabbed a vase an put a little water into it before placing the flowers in as well.
"A man after my heart for sure. My favorite soda, and flowers. Thank you, they are beautiful."
Setting the flowers on the table and looking at them for a long moment the smile stayed on her face. They really were very pretty. She loved them. Turning back to the basket an Zan her eyes twinkled.
"So I hope you like Egg Salad. I also back some chips, and fresh strawberrys too."
Hate Me
Hal hadn't heard Sam approach, so when she put her arm around him, he recoiled...but only for a second. He was too broken in this moment to shy away from the comfort being given. Curling into Sam's embrace, he just let her hold him as he cried on her shoulder. It had been longer than he could remember since he'd been hugged or held... especially by a woman. And Sam's presence was like a soothing balm to his injured soul.
Time didn't matter, and Hal wasn't sure how long he'd stayed like this, but as his emotions calmed, he knew he couldn't remain all day. Slowly drawing back, his eyes remained down. Even though he was glad Sam was here, this emotional display was somewhat embarrassing. Without saying anything, he stood and trudged to the bathroom where he washed his face and tried to make himself halfway presentable again.
Coming back to the living room, he returned to the couch. Sitting, he pulled his knees up and wrapped his arms around his legs, leaning his head back to stare up at the ceiling. It was such a contrast to his normally confident posture. Today he looked like a beaten little boy. He could feel Sam's eyes on him, and finally dared to look her direction.
He started to say something, but his voice cracked, and he had to clear his throat. "I''m sorry... you had to witness this mess." He shifted his gaze back to the ceiling. "Alison told me I'm being overprotective and trying to ruin her future just because I want things my way." He shrugged lamely. "Maybe she's right. Maybe her mom really is giving her more than I ever could." Even though his tears were done for now, the hurt was evident in his voice. "I grew up feeling ignored and unloved. I just... wanted to make sure I was never that kind of parent... but maybe I just need to let her go. I don't want her to hate me."
Zan couldn't help laughing at Destiny's comment, though a bit of color did come to his face. "Um... I guess you'll have to be the judge?" He wandered in behind her and to the kitchen, eyeing the basket and wondering what she'd prepared for their food.
"I've got two camping chairs in the car," he mentioned. "And a blanket. Didn't know what to expect. I... may have stopped on the way and gotten some Dr. Pepper too... just in case you needed your fix." He grinned, and only then remembered what was in his hand. "Oh... these are for you." He handed her the little bouquet of daisies that were held together with a light blue ribbon. "When I saw them I just... thought of you."
Time didn't matter, and Hal wasn't sure how long he'd stayed like this, but as his emotions calmed, he knew he couldn't remain all day. Slowly drawing back, his eyes remained down. Even though he was glad Sam was here, this emotional display was somewhat embarrassing. Without saying anything, he stood and trudged to the bathroom where he washed his face and tried to make himself halfway presentable again.
Coming back to the living room, he returned to the couch. Sitting, he pulled his knees up and wrapped his arms around his legs, leaning his head back to stare up at the ceiling. It was such a contrast to his normally confident posture. Today he looked like a beaten little boy. He could feel Sam's eyes on him, and finally dared to look her direction.
He started to say something, but his voice cracked, and he had to clear his throat. "I''m sorry... you had to witness this mess." He shifted his gaze back to the ceiling. "Alison told me I'm being overprotective and trying to ruin her future just because I want things my way." He shrugged lamely. "Maybe she's right. Maybe her mom really is giving her more than I ever could." Even though his tears were done for now, the hurt was evident in his voice. "I grew up feeling ignored and unloved. I just... wanted to make sure I was never that kind of parent... but maybe I just need to let her go. I don't want her to hate me."
Zan couldn't help laughing at Destiny's comment, though a bit of color did come to his face. "Um... I guess you'll have to be the judge?" He wandered in behind her and to the kitchen, eyeing the basket and wondering what she'd prepared for their food.
"I've got two camping chairs in the car," he mentioned. "And a blanket. Didn't know what to expect. I... may have stopped on the way and gotten some Dr. Pepper too... just in case you needed your fix." He grinned, and only then remembered what was in his hand. "Oh... these are for you." He handed her the little bouquet of daisies that were held together with a light blue ribbon. "When I saw them I just... thought of you."
May 1, 2017
Not
As Hal's phone rang and he walked into the other room Sam cringed just a little as she heard part of the conversation. As the conversation kept going and then Hal was on the phone with his daughter Sam stood taking the plates to the counter. At least the food would be there if Hal got hungry.
Wonder into the living room as he hung the phone up Sam just stood in the door was for a moment. Hearing his sniffs of crying she wondered closer and sat down next to him. Sam put an arm over his shoulder before turning him to her for a moment and putting her other arm over his other shoulder pulling him into a big hug.
"I'm here for you..."
Hearing a knock on the door Destiny smiled and went to the door opening it. Seeing Zan and smile she opened it a little more to let him inside.
"Do you ever not look good?"
Destiny had a cute little sundress on and some sandals. Wondering to the kitchen she put the last few things into the picnic basket before closing the top. Looking at Zan again she smiled. She really was excited about their little date. He was a good guy and so far a good friend. If there was more there she wasn't sure but it definitely was worth a shot.
Wonder into the living room as he hung the phone up Sam just stood in the door was for a moment. Hearing his sniffs of crying she wondered closer and sat down next to him. Sam put an arm over his shoulder before turning him to her for a moment and putting her other arm over his other shoulder pulling him into a big hug.
"I'm here for you..."
Hearing a knock on the door Destiny smiled and went to the door opening it. Seeing Zan and smile she opened it a little more to let him inside.
"Do you ever not look good?"
Destiny had a cute little sundress on and some sandals. Wondering to the kitchen she put the last few things into the picnic basket before closing the top. Looking at Zan again she smiled. She really was excited about their little date. He was a good guy and so far a good friend. If there was more there she wasn't sure but it definitely was worth a shot.
Daisies
Hal nodded numbly. "Yeah... it'll just be harder with the time difference and all..." He nibbled a little more on his sandwich, completely lost in thought again when his phone rang again, almost sending him out of his chair. His face immediately changed when he saw who the caller was, and he stood to answer it. "Michelle, what-" That's all he had time for before she started in on him so loudly, he had to hold the phone away from his ear.
"You called your lawyer? What is wrong with you?! Do you know how hard I've tried to..."
Hal could feel the heat in his face as he left the kitchen so Sam wouldn't have to listen in. Even so, as he paced the living room, the conversation intensified. "I was just... No, you listen to me! You think you can drag her halfway across the world to- ...Just because you have custody doesn't remove the fact that I'm her father! ...Well I'm sorry you wish you'd never been with me, but deal with it! You said 'I do,' remember? And Alison is just as much mine as-"
He threw his free hand up in the air. "I know, alright?! I know I can't do a thing about it. You've got me over a barrel. You win. Is that what you want? Is this all about you getting even with me?... How could I... No! You cannot keep me from at least talking with her! You put her on the phone right now!"
He growled as he paced a small circle, almost forgetting Sam was even there. "Alison?" His voice had changed. "Sweety look, I... What?" His pacing stopped, and his pulse came pretty close to stopping too. "No, I didn't... I never... I'm sorry, I didn't mean to..."
As the line went dead, so did a piece of his heart. Setting his phone on an end table, he sank down on the couch and put his head in his hands. And this time, he couldn't stop the tears from falling.
Zan went home happy... glad he'd texted Destiny, and glad she seemed receptive to his attention. It was nice to have a new friend and... who knew what the future held?
The next day couldn't get over fast enough. After work, he had enough time to work on his car for a couple hours before he had to go pick up Destiny. And this time he did take a shower...
...Knocking on Destiny's door, Zan was in his faded blue jeans, boots and a his typical plain black tee, tucked in just in the front around his belt. It was too warm for his jacket today... which made it perfect for a picnic. He waited for her to answer the door, a small bunch of daisies in hand.
"You called your lawyer? What is wrong with you?! Do you know how hard I've tried to..."
Hal could feel the heat in his face as he left the kitchen so Sam wouldn't have to listen in. Even so, as he paced the living room, the conversation intensified. "I was just... No, you listen to me! You think you can drag her halfway across the world to- ...Just because you have custody doesn't remove the fact that I'm her father! ...Well I'm sorry you wish you'd never been with me, but deal with it! You said 'I do,' remember? And Alison is just as much mine as-"
He threw his free hand up in the air. "I know, alright?! I know I can't do a thing about it. You've got me over a barrel. You win. Is that what you want? Is this all about you getting even with me?... How could I... No! You cannot keep me from at least talking with her! You put her on the phone right now!"
He growled as he paced a small circle, almost forgetting Sam was even there. "Alison?" His voice had changed. "Sweety look, I... What?" His pacing stopped, and his pulse came pretty close to stopping too. "No, I didn't... I never... I'm sorry, I didn't mean to..."
As the line went dead, so did a piece of his heart. Setting his phone on an end table, he sank down on the couch and put his head in his hands. And this time, he couldn't stop the tears from falling.
Zan went home happy... glad he'd texted Destiny, and glad she seemed receptive to his attention. It was nice to have a new friend and... who knew what the future held?
The next day couldn't get over fast enough. After work, he had enough time to work on his car for a couple hours before he had to go pick up Destiny. And this time he did take a shower...
...Knocking on Destiny's door, Zan was in his faded blue jeans, boots and a his typical plain black tee, tucked in just in the front around his belt. It was too warm for his jacket today... which made it perfect for a picnic. He waited for her to answer the door, a small bunch of daisies in hand.
Ruined
Hearing the plates being set on the table, Hal finally lifted his head. It was about time for lunch, wasn't it? If Sam hadn't come, he most likely wouldn't have eaten at all. Even though he didn't reach for his sandwich yet, he really was grateful. She was being kind, and he appreciated it. "Thank you," he mentioned quietly.
He looked down at his phone again and sighed. "Alison won't answer any of my texts or calls. She's never done that before. If I'd just... been there when she skyped me earlier, I would have gotten to talk to her. Maybe something I'd have said would have..." He let his sentence trail off. He knew better. He'd like to think he could have said something that would have convinced her not to go, but he knew in his heart that this had been planned for a long time now, and it was a done deal.
"She never said a word," he continued softly. "She never let on once that they were going to move." He scoffed. "Last time we skyped, I saw some boxes behind her and teased her about cleaning her room. She just... laughed it off. But now I know she was packing. And she didn't say anything to me about it." Maybe that's what hurt more than anything. He wouldn't expect Michelle to give him an ounce of information. But Alison... they'd always had a good relationship and talked about everything. Or so he'd thought.
As tears returned to his eyes, he fell quiet again. The last thing he wanted to do was cry in front of Sam. He focused on his sandwich to give him at least a brief distraction. After taking a bite, he glanced to his side at Sam again. "Sorry... that I ruined our day."
Zan chuckled as he finally slid off the booth to stand. For someone who had obviously been through a lot of crap, Destiny sure did know how to look on the bright side. "You have a point." He cocked his head at her, just smiling for a moment. "And I'm all for hellos."
Walking her outside and holding the door for her, he took in a breath of the night air. He really didn't want to go home yet, but he knew he should. "I'll pick you up tomorrow at five," he promised. He was about to tell her that he'd shower too, then remembered what she'd said about liking the smell of the shop. A chuckle slipped out, even though he wasn't going to say what he'd been thinking. "Goodnight, Destiny."
Jason leaned his head back on the tree and closed his eyes, letting Katie nestle into him. He wasn't really tired, just... relaxed. And sitting out here where no one knew they were... was nice.
"Careful you don't get a rattler up your pantleg."
Jason's eyes flew back open and he squinted up at the voice.
Dylan sat astride Seven, and tipped his hat back on his head, grinning just a little. "Sorry to barge in on you two. If I'd known you were here, I would have swung wide."
Jason smirked. "We're not safe anywhere, are we?"
"Uh-uh. But your secret's safe with me."
Jason chuckled. "It's fine. We were just taking a walk."
The humor slowly faded from Dylan's eyes. "You, um... you guys alright? Seems everybody's been worried."
"Yeah..." Jason gave Katie a glance before looking back up at him. "Yeah, we're gonna be alright. We'll be here a little while yet though."
Dylan cocked his head. It felt like no one really knew what was going on, except their close families. Jeff, Rosetta and Mick, Cindy and Wes... and that was it. Even when he asked his own dad about it, he seemed to avoid talking facts. Dylan knew good and well there were strange things that had happened with Katie and Jason, but didn't like being in the dark. He didn't have much to do with them, but he did care. His gaze redirected to Katie herself, and he studied her eyes for several long moments before Seven's impatient stamping brought him out of his stare. "Okay. I'll catch you later then."
He looked down at his phone again and sighed. "Alison won't answer any of my texts or calls. She's never done that before. If I'd just... been there when she skyped me earlier, I would have gotten to talk to her. Maybe something I'd have said would have..." He let his sentence trail off. He knew better. He'd like to think he could have said something that would have convinced her not to go, but he knew in his heart that this had been planned for a long time now, and it was a done deal.
"She never said a word," he continued softly. "She never let on once that they were going to move." He scoffed. "Last time we skyped, I saw some boxes behind her and teased her about cleaning her room. She just... laughed it off. But now I know she was packing. And she didn't say anything to me about it." Maybe that's what hurt more than anything. He wouldn't expect Michelle to give him an ounce of information. But Alison... they'd always had a good relationship and talked about everything. Or so he'd thought.
As tears returned to his eyes, he fell quiet again. The last thing he wanted to do was cry in front of Sam. He focused on his sandwich to give him at least a brief distraction. After taking a bite, he glanced to his side at Sam again. "Sorry... that I ruined our day."
Zan chuckled as he finally slid off the booth to stand. For someone who had obviously been through a lot of crap, Destiny sure did know how to look on the bright side. "You have a point." He cocked his head at her, just smiling for a moment. "And I'm all for hellos."
Walking her outside and holding the door for her, he took in a breath of the night air. He really didn't want to go home yet, but he knew he should. "I'll pick you up tomorrow at five," he promised. He was about to tell her that he'd shower too, then remembered what she'd said about liking the smell of the shop. A chuckle slipped out, even though he wasn't going to say what he'd been thinking. "Goodnight, Destiny."
Jason leaned his head back on the tree and closed his eyes, letting Katie nestle into him. He wasn't really tired, just... relaxed. And sitting out here where no one knew they were... was nice.
"Careful you don't get a rattler up your pantleg."
Jason's eyes flew back open and he squinted up at the voice.
Dylan sat astride Seven, and tipped his hat back on his head, grinning just a little. "Sorry to barge in on you two. If I'd known you were here, I would have swung wide."
Jason smirked. "We're not safe anywhere, are we?"
"Uh-uh. But your secret's safe with me."
Jason chuckled. "It's fine. We were just taking a walk."
The humor slowly faded from Dylan's eyes. "You, um... you guys alright? Seems everybody's been worried."
"Yeah..." Jason gave Katie a glance before looking back up at him. "Yeah, we're gonna be alright. We'll be here a little while yet though."
Dylan cocked his head. It felt like no one really knew what was going on, except their close families. Jeff, Rosetta and Mick, Cindy and Wes... and that was it. Even when he asked his own dad about it, he seemed to avoid talking facts. Dylan knew good and well there were strange things that had happened with Katie and Jason, but didn't like being in the dark. He didn't have much to do with them, but he did care. His gaze redirected to Katie herself, and he studied her eyes for several long moments before Seven's impatient stamping brought him out of his stare. "Okay. I'll catch you later then."
Opportunity
Working on the coffee, and then going to the fridge she grabbed some stuff for sandwiches. Pulling out the bread, and meat she slowly started to make them adding a little lettuce along with cheese. Cutting them and putting them on the plate she was quiet while listing to Hal talk on the phone. She could easily tell there really was nothing Hal could do about the whole situation and it broke her heart a little more.
Setting the plates down, one in front of Hal, and one for herself she sat down next to him. Not saying anything Sam just sat there. She wasn't sure what to say but she wanted to be there for her. If Hal just wanted to ramble, cry, scream, she would be there. Sometimes, that was more important than words.
Destiny laughed again as Zan talked about loud. She could tell Jett looked up to Zan, and was maybe one of his few friends. It was kind cute in a way, but she could tell it bothered Zan just a little. Made her feel good too that he considered being with her better than going to a party.
"He does seem like he is a pretty good guy."
Hearing his comment and looking down at her own empty cup Destiny let out a sigh. It was getting late, but it had been a good evening. Destiny would ask if he wanted to talk a walk, but she didn't want to seem to clingy. There was tomorrow and they would even joy the evening together.
"Goodbyes just mean more opportunity for Hellos."
"I agree to that. Its what we need to do."
They couldn't hide forever and maybe it would be better to tell Kirk and the others themselves than to let them find out on their own. If they came out and told them maybe it would lessen the blow because they weren't trying to hide anything.
I love you Jason, no matter what I love you.
Setting the plates down, one in front of Hal, and one for herself she sat down next to him. Not saying anything Sam just sat there. She wasn't sure what to say but she wanted to be there for her. If Hal just wanted to ramble, cry, scream, she would be there. Sometimes, that was more important than words.
Destiny laughed again as Zan talked about loud. She could tell Jett looked up to Zan, and was maybe one of his few friends. It was kind cute in a way, but she could tell it bothered Zan just a little. Made her feel good too that he considered being with her better than going to a party.
"He does seem like he is a pretty good guy."
Hearing his comment and looking down at her own empty cup Destiny let out a sigh. It was getting late, but it had been a good evening. Destiny would ask if he wanted to talk a walk, but she didn't want to seem to clingy. There was tomorrow and they would even joy the evening together.
"Goodbyes just mean more opportunity for Hellos."
"I agree to that. Its what we need to do."
They couldn't hide forever and maybe it would be better to tell Kirk and the others themselves than to let them find out on their own. If they came out and told them maybe it would lessen the blow because they weren't trying to hide anything.
I love you Jason, no matter what I love you.
Time to Go
Hal looked down at Sam's hand as she placed it on his. Her touch was warm... soft... comforting. His thumb curled around hers for just a moment before he silently retreated and slumped down in a chair at the table. Normally he might make a crack about her lack of cooking skills, but today he remained quiet, too absorbed in his own turmoil to find humor.
A few minutes later, his ringing phone made him jump and he immediately answered it. "Hello? ... Yeah, Mike.... Uh-huh.... Right. England.... No, no notice til just today... She's sixteen.... well I know that- ... But... Even if she has full custody, can't I-" He sank down even further in his chair. "No, nothing like that. Nothing I can prove anyway... No, I understand... Yeah, okay... Thanks."
Ending the call, he set his phone aside before folding his arms on the table and leaning down to rest his head on them. Unless he wanted to become a very mean individual, there was nothing he could do. There was no way to stop this. He was losing his baby girl.
Zan's smile widened. Destiny had said "yet." That meant she anticipated coming more often, and... he liked that idea. "Oh, don't worry. I'll make sure Jett takes care of you. He's good like that." Zan didn't try to take advantage of his friend, but Jett would do just about anything he asked, especially around the races. "I'm hoping it'll be sometime next week. Soon as my car is up and running and me and the others have a game plan." At least he hoped it was going to work that way. He hoped Ryan would be able to pick up where she'd left off - it hadn't been the same without her driving.
His vibrating phone interrupted his thoughts, and he retrieved it to read the text message. "No, I don't want to come to a party," he spoke loudly to it for no reason. "I got better things to do, Jett." He sighed as he typed out a much nicer reply and sent it before giving Destiny a sheepish little smirk. "He doesn't have many friends, and he doesn't fly solo very well. I love him though."
Taking another sip of coffee, he realized he'd hit the bottom of his cup, and he frowned. "I hate it when I reach the bottom. That always means it's time to go."
Jason just relaxed and let their connection carry their emotions. He wasn't used to not fighting it - even when they'd been connected before he'd constantly waged war against it. It felt different now to just... let go. It was far less painful, and much more peaceful.
"Maybe..." He continued to think about all their options. "I like that idea. Maybe four people. Rick, Rosetta and Mick, and Reese." He hated thinking about their parents not knowing. Or their best friends... like Con. But they had to keep it limited, not only for their own safety, but the safety of others.
"When we get back... whenever that is... we can tell Reese that we can't keep hiding, and the four new people need to know the truth. From there, we can either see they'll keep our secret and we'll go about business as usual, or if we see them headed for the FBI, we'll disappear."
He gave her a tight squeeze.
I don't even want to think about leaving behind our friends and families... but as long as we're together... that's what matters most to me.
A few minutes later, his ringing phone made him jump and he immediately answered it. "Hello? ... Yeah, Mike.... Uh-huh.... Right. England.... No, no notice til just today... She's sixteen.... well I know that- ... But... Even if she has full custody, can't I-" He sank down even further in his chair. "No, nothing like that. Nothing I can prove anyway... No, I understand... Yeah, okay... Thanks."
Ending the call, he set his phone aside before folding his arms on the table and leaning down to rest his head on them. Unless he wanted to become a very mean individual, there was nothing he could do. There was no way to stop this. He was losing his baby girl.
Zan's smile widened. Destiny had said "yet." That meant she anticipated coming more often, and... he liked that idea. "Oh, don't worry. I'll make sure Jett takes care of you. He's good like that." Zan didn't try to take advantage of his friend, but Jett would do just about anything he asked, especially around the races. "I'm hoping it'll be sometime next week. Soon as my car is up and running and me and the others have a game plan." At least he hoped it was going to work that way. He hoped Ryan would be able to pick up where she'd left off - it hadn't been the same without her driving.
His vibrating phone interrupted his thoughts, and he retrieved it to read the text message. "No, I don't want to come to a party," he spoke loudly to it for no reason. "I got better things to do, Jett." He sighed as he typed out a much nicer reply and sent it before giving Destiny a sheepish little smirk. "He doesn't have many friends, and he doesn't fly solo very well. I love him though."
Taking another sip of coffee, he realized he'd hit the bottom of his cup, and he frowned. "I hate it when I reach the bottom. That always means it's time to go."
Jason just relaxed and let their connection carry their emotions. He wasn't used to not fighting it - even when they'd been connected before he'd constantly waged war against it. It felt different now to just... let go. It was far less painful, and much more peaceful.
"Maybe..." He continued to think about all their options. "I like that idea. Maybe four people. Rick, Rosetta and Mick, and Reese." He hated thinking about their parents not knowing. Or their best friends... like Con. But they had to keep it limited, not only for their own safety, but the safety of others.
"When we get back... whenever that is... we can tell Reese that we can't keep hiding, and the four new people need to know the truth. From there, we can either see they'll keep our secret and we'll go about business as usual, or if we see them headed for the FBI, we'll disappear."
He gave her a tight squeeze.
I don't even want to think about leaving behind our friends and families... but as long as we're together... that's what matters most to me.
Alone
Hearing what happened Sam's heart broke for Hal. She couldn't imagen how something like that would feel, but she knew and could see it was not good at all. She wasn't even sure the right words to say.
"Hal, I'm so sorry."
Watching as he got up and walked into the kitchen Sam slowly followed. She didn't know what else to do but just be there for him. Watching him fiddle with the coffee grounds Sam went over and placed her hands on top of his. Looking at him she gave a small smile.
"So sit, I'll make this and try to fit us a little something to eat. I know you are more than likely not hungry but at least a little light something. Then I will sit with you. Even if it's in silence you don't have to be alone."
Destiny's eyes widened a little as Zan laughed. Thinking about it, she must have sounded pretty funny. She was also thankful for Eli's idea. That sounded a lot better than what she had envisioned in her head.
"Not having a broken hand is a plus. You can't drive with a broken hand."
Smiling Destiny finished off her coffee and pushed it aside. Leaning on the table and hearing Zan's comment about her being on the sidelines Destiny smile as a little crimson entered her cheeks. He just continued to have ways to make her feel good.
"Well then, I guess I should be on the sidelines then. As long as Jett is there too. I'm not sure I'd know how to survive at the races without someone there with me. At least not yet."
"Hal, I'm so sorry."
Watching as he got up and walked into the kitchen Sam slowly followed. She didn't know what else to do but just be there for him. Watching him fiddle with the coffee grounds Sam went over and placed her hands on top of his. Looking at him she gave a small smile.
"So sit, I'll make this and try to fit us a little something to eat. I know you are more than likely not hungry but at least a little light something. Then I will sit with you. Even if it's in silence you don't have to be alone."
Destiny's eyes widened a little as Zan laughed. Thinking about it, she must have sounded pretty funny. She was also thankful for Eli's idea. That sounded a lot better than what she had envisioned in her head.
"Not having a broken hand is a plus. You can't drive with a broken hand."
Smiling Destiny finished off her coffee and pushed it aside. Leaning on the table and hearing Zan's comment about her being on the sidelines Destiny smile as a little crimson entered her cheeks. He just continued to have ways to make her feel good.
"Well then, I guess I should be on the sidelines then. As long as Jett is there too. I'm not sure I'd know how to survive at the races without someone there with me. At least not yet."
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