Let the Trouble Begin || Wyatt

[Finn Keagan]

The young man sat silently in his seat, not happy about what was happening to him in the least. His elbow rested on the open window, and his chin was in his hand. The scowl seemed permanently glued to his features, and it was obvious that he wasn't happy in the least. He was completely ignoring the official next to him, knowing that as soon as he stepped out of the cop car he'd probably be in handcuffs, like usual. Finn was tired of being arrested constantly, and this was his last chance. He could either go to jail, or he could come to this program and figure out his problems. Finn didn't want to do either, but he preferred being outside and working opposed to being inside and beaten up even more. As he thought about that, his eyes traveled down to his bandaged wrist. The navy plaster cast was fixed firmly in place to help heal his shattered wrist, and Finn couldn't wait to get it removed.

His father had done a number on him with the baseball bat, and that much was obvious by just looking at the seventeen year old. His face was what a lot people noticed at first, for his right eye was swollen and bruised, and his nose was crooked from the recent break. His lower lip was larger than normal, and there was bruising alongside his left cheekbone. His arms had large welts on them from the actual bat and his father's handprint could be seen around Finn's other wrist. He was just glad that his clothes covered the rest of his body, because he honestly didn't know what other people would think if they saw all of that. He didn't like talking about what had happened to him, and he didn't like being questioned. When the beatings were never this bad, and he only receieved the occasional bruise, he would attribute it to falling or something at work. He would never blame his father because he didn't want to get in even more trouble. But this past beating was when his father had really done it to him, for he had knocked his son cold. The man had actually called an ambulance though, and that was why he was now locked up for a very long time. Finn didn't have to worry about the man anymore, although he always would. The young man shook his head now and looked out the window once more. He saw the long drive to the ranch coming up, and he had to admit he was slightly excited.

He had always loved horses, and back home he had been involved as possible. He would find himself odd jobs around the barns, but most of the time, he'd be a groom and a stable hand. Occasionally the owners would let him exercise one of the horses, and they would call him a natural, and soon trusted him by himself. He started exercising and training when he was with the owners, and he could soon do it by himself. He loved the jobs that he found for himself. His first and full time job was at the local grocery store, so whenever he had time, he'd go to the local stables. It was a busy life, and he was always exhausted, but he never slept. The insomnia did that to him. Finn sighed now and stopped thinking about his past life. It wasn't important any longer. He was here to start over, although he knew that was going to be rather difficult. He sat back in his seat as the car pulled into the main yard of the ranch. The trooper turned off the car and looked over to the rebellious kid next to him. "Mind your manners Keagan. Wyatt Parker's a good man, and he doesn't need the trouble from you." He warned the rather innocent looking young man. Finn just spoke in response in a dull tone. "Yeah whatever. Let's just get this over with." He snapped and then opened his own door. He stepped out, but the trooper was soon beside him, grabbing a hold of his shoulder before Finn could even react. It looked like he wasn't running away in this deserted place. Did the cop actually think he was stupid enough to run in this hot place? He wished he could have a bit of credit. The cop steered him up the front porch of the ranch house, and was soon knocking on the door, keeping a firm hold on Finn's shoulder.

[Wyatt Parker]

Word Count: 524
Status: Complete. Sorry about the wait!
Lyrics: Another Hole In The Head by Nickelback

Wyatt had his hands full with getting things ready. He had had to prepare another bed in the Bunker for this TTI programme that he was taking on. It had taken longer than 6 months for all of the qualifications to come through and then he still had to sort out all of the horses and learn the tools of the trade. People around town had given plenty of references and information if they had anything, but what was top on all of that was patience, firmness and kindness. You had to be patient with them and not show the kids that you were just another adult. You had to be firm, not cruel. They joined TTI to get away from cruelty and whatever else it was that made them troubled. And lastly, you had to be kind.

Wyatt had Katy on his hip, holding her against him with her hands tied around his neck and shoulders.

"Does we have Milos?"

She piped, watching him with her blue-grey-green eyes - Lily's eyes.

I got it for you yesterday. I wouldn't have any peace otherwise.

Katy looked ahead, anticipating her Milo cereal for breakfast. It was against his better judgement, but he had promised Katy that she could try it. He entered the kitchen and seated her at the kitchen table on a normal chair. She immediately tucked her legs beneath her, her feet sticking out from under her green dress.

Katy.

"Sorry, daddy."

She sat down normally at the table and he turned around, smiling. He had the cereal in one hand, milk in the other, after retrieving both. That's when the police vehicle pulled up into the yard. Wyatt had seen it through the window and frowned, muttering something under his breath as he hurried to finish up with preparing Katy's breakfast. He stirred it all around, making the milk chocolate, the way his daughter usually liked it when she got this kind of treat.

I'm through, thinking of things to say to you
It's true, I've said enough and so have you
Just drive, you slam the door and so do I
Tongue tied, from all the little things
And they're the reason that I scream

I needed you,
Probably as bad as I need another hole in the head
Was I mean to you?
Car keys in your hand
I believe that you would leave me for dead

Your turn, you'd rather leave then live and learn
That's why, you want an end and so do I
This time, I'll leave, and leave it all behind
Tongue tied, from all the little things
And they're the reason that I scream

Hun, I've got some business to take care of. I'll be back in a minute.

Wyatt kissed Katy on the forehead, setting her breakfast down in front of her. Before he even got to the door the trooper was knocking on his door. Opening the door, Wyatt held his hand out to the trooper.

How's it goin', Mitch?

Mitch was from New York and was pretty good at what he did, enforcing the law around town. Then Wyatt's eyes turned onto the teen under Mitch's grasp. He didn't look around the kids face rather obviously. Wyatt had received a full report on Finnegan's background and knew what injuries he had sustained. But still, it was quite a shock. A baseball bat too. His hand gripped into a fist, eventually relaxing. If anyone ever laid a hand on Katy they'd probably be the one in hospital. Overall, Wyatt knew nothing about Finn's personality. He'd just read a punch of black lines on paper. That wasn't enough to tell you about the kid himself.

Name's Wyatt Parker.

He introduced himself, nodding in Finn's direction, keeping his eyes on him a moment more before turning to Mitch.

Just droppin' him off?

[Finn Keagan]

Finn didn't know how he felt about this entire program. A part of him was excited because it was giving him a chance to work with horses, but then another part of him was apprehensive. He was going to be around adults all of the time, and he was still a bit nervous when it came to that. Even now with the officer in such close proximity, Finn was leaning away from him. He was doing his best to place distance between himself and the people he thought could only bring him harm. He stepped back a little as well, but Mitch's grip on his shoulder was not helping him in the least. As the police officer tightened his grip to keep Finn closer, the young man flinched, but tried to hide it. He just wasn't good when it came to physical contact, and even when they had tried to shake his hand in the past, he had flinched back at their hand movements. The boy was traumatized to put it simply.

His hate and his anger were directed on the ones that he thought would bring him harm. He had known kindness in his earlier years, but as soon as his mother got sick and passed away, he had known nothing but violence. Not once had he tried to defend himself because he was brought up to never lay a hand on anyone in that kind of way. His father had been too drunk to remember the lessons he had tried so hard to teach his son. Finnegan was heart broken basically. The one person that he had gotten close to, and the one person that he thought loved him for him was now gone. The cancer had taken her when she didn't deserve to die, and Finn had been there to take care of her in that last year. She passed away a few days after his sixteenth birthday, and Finn was devastated still. She had been the only one to show him care and compassion in the psaat years that he was with his family. His father had turned into a completely different man at that moment, and Finn was frightened of him. He refused to hit his father, but his dad had no problem with taking his anger and frustration out on his son.

Finnegan had run away more often than not, and at that point, Finn would always pay for it when he came back. His dad would beat into him harder than ever before, but never as hard as he had that first time. The young man shook his head now, trying to ignore those thoughts. He didn't want to think about that night. He had actually blanked out that night, and didn't remember much of what happened. He just remembered walking in to his raging drunken parent. Daniel had torn into his son, but Finn didn't remember anything after he saw the bat and tried to get out. That was fine with him. For a moment he stood trembling, but as soon as the door swung open, he hardened instantly. His face didn't look towards Wyatt, and he kept his eyes averted to the ground. He was much like a frightened horse, and the way he flinched at Wyatt's first words made it obvious that he was going to be a hard case. His eyes slowly traveled across the property until he found a lone horse in a round pen. The blue roan stallion was thundering around the round pen in giant leaps, bucking and jumping. As he slid to a stop, Finn locked onto the silvery blue form, losing himself for a moment. He became aware that Wyatt was speaking to him however, when Mitch clung to his shoulder again. Finn turned to finally look at the extremely tall and muscled man, and instantly took a step backwards out of instinct. His father had been built like Wyatt, and he was nervous already. "I know."

He finally said in response, and then felt Mitch's angry stare. "Finnegan. Manners." He reprimanded, and then nodded in Wyatt's direction. "Yeah. Finn stay here for a moment, okay? Don't get into any trouble." He spoke warningly, and then looked in Wyatt's direction, signaling that they needed to talk for a moment. Looking back at Finn, who was now leaning against the porch railing, still looking at the wild blue roan Nokota, and then felt comfortable leaving him alone. Where was he going to run to? Mitch stepped out of hearing distance of the kid, and then lowered his voice anyway so that only the man in front of him could hear. "He's a bad case Wyatt. Hard for the first one for your program, which is why I'm surprised they offered it to him. This is his last shot though. If he doesn't shape up and improve here, he's looking at jail time for quite a while with all that he's done in his past year. He's pretty messed up though Wyatt. He flinches away at everything, and he hardly says a word. When he does, it's smart and rude, so I'm giving you the heads up now. He's not going to be easy." Mitch finished, and then waited patiently for what the rancher was going to say in response to that.

[Wyatt Parker]

Word Count: 512
Status: Complete
Lyrics: They All Fall Down by SR-71

Wyatt watched with quiet intensity, his arms hanging by his sides. Finnegan was doing a lot of flinching, veering away from contact and he noticed the grip Mitch had on the boys shoulder. He hadn't really known what to expect to be honest. Rape cases? Neglection? Rebel? Wyatt looked back in Mitch's direction when he replied to his earlier question, nodding as he signaled they should move out of hearing distance. It wasn't comfortable for anyone to know that someone was talking about them right in front of them, but just out of earshot. He tried not to turn his back on Finn.

Just like what Wyatt had been thinking earlier, he repeated out loud to Mitch. It wasn't quite as quiet, but it was as low as his voice was going to get. No secrets. Don't teach them to keep secrets.

Everythin' on the report that they gave us is in black and white. We'll see how it goes. Maybe he'll surprise us. This is a totally new experience for him.

I can be as humble as the next guy
Or I can blink and make you crumble from the inside
I could be every nasty thing, you ever dreamt a man could be

Cause they all fall down
Cause they all fall down

I can make you see the beauty of a new sun
or I can be the source of your desperation
I could be every nasty thing, you ever dreamt a man could be

Jaded, dated, I'm the type you hated
haunted, taunted, I'm what you've always wanted

Mitch shrugged, saying it was up to Wyatt how he handled Finn, but he was just trying to warn him.

Thanks for bringin' him over.

As usual, he dropped his "y's" and "g's" with his accent, which didn't particularly sound any different than any other North American accents. Mitch had patted Wyatt's back, and it was rather rough. Nothing around here was done rather gently unless you were one of those southern girls driving into town in a pink car, she could be elegant. Not these Westin girls. They had manners but boy did they know how to teach you a lesson.

Wyatt approached Finn, his hands in his pockets with his thumbs hooked over. He followed Finn's focusing point, which led him straight to Frequent Flyer - Silver Stag's second stallion on the premisis.

His name's Flyer. Do you like him?

Wyatt was giving the kid his space, standing as far back as he could be. From inside the house he could hear the shuffling of little feet and a little yelp of excitement. Next thing he heard was Gunner whining and pawing at the door. Heaving a breath through his lips he moved to open the door and Gun jumped out at the first chance he got, soon followed by Katy who in her excitement, ran straight past her father and after the English Shepherd.

Katy.

His voice was calm, firm and it almost sounded proud. Katy whipped around, her hair clinging to her lip and her eyes wide.

You ain't in trouble, hun. This is Finnegan.

He nodded in Finn's direction. Katy eyed him, suddenly a little bit shy. She clasped her hands together.

"I gots a doggie. His name's Gunna. You can play with him if you want."

She looked at her father then the stranger and was interrupted when Gunner placed his maw under her hand, whining and licking her fingers. He was only really playful with Katy. He couldn't be bothered with Wyatt when it came to games. Wyatt never indulged him in it.

[Finn Keagan]

Finn was used to people talking about him when he was right in front of them, so he just ignored the police officer and the ranch owner for the time being. He knew what was being said because he had overheard it many times before. He was difficult and rude, and just plain annoying to deal with. This was his last stop before stepping into a jail cell, and they really hoped this work, but there weren't any promises. Finn hated the words they threw around, but he couldn't change them now. He wasn't ready to change himself, and before that happened, he needed to lose his nervous nature. He didn't like being around adults too much, especially the men. They were usually forceful, and the only one he had really come in contact with had placed a lot of harm upon him. He wasn't ready to be comfortable in this situation, and that much was obvious as he stood awkwardly by the porch railing.

He was able to hear Wyatt's words over Mitch's, and for a moment he was tempted to look back at the two. Did Wyatt really have hope in him? Finn hoped not himself, because he didn't want to let anyone else down. Sighing quietly, he let his blue green eyes stare straight at the blue roan. What would it be like to have that power, that freedom? Finn didn't want to be a horse obviously, but to be as strong as that blue roan seemed would be something that would make Finn feel even more comfortable. Finn was the very defintion of scrawny, and one could tell by just looking at him. His clothes, that had once fit him when his mother was alive, hung off of his fairly emaciated frame, and the bruises didn't help with his pale complexion. The dark circles beneath his eyes from his insomnia did a number on him already, even though the purple had blended in with the bruises on his face. Finn was a mess, and he doubted that this place could really help him out. Most of the times he just wished everything could be over. It was the weak, scared way out, but he didn't know what else to do. If he couldn't trust his own father, than who in the world could he trust? It didn't make any sense to the young man, but he was trying not to get himself worked up for the time being. His eyes left the horse only for a moment as he felt a painful twinge coming from his wrist. Every so often it would do something like that, and he'd be uncomfortable for a while. But usually it passed without too much trouble, and he'd forget about it in another instant. Shaking his head a little, he looked over his shoulder as he heard the footsteps on the front porch. Furrowing his brow, he looked away and back to the blue roan.

His eyes followed the Nokota's movements as if he was watching a movie. The horse seemed to move without effort, as if he could run for days on end without growing tired. Finn already had a certain respect for the seemingly wild animal, and he stepped back as he watched the stallion skid to a halt and rear in his frustration. He was trapped, just like Finnegan. The young man sighed softly and then became aware of someone speaking to him. Finn's eyes slipped to the ground immediately, and he didn't meet Wyatt's stare for now. He wasn't comfortable enough to do that right now, and he stood with a passive stance. But if someone was to make him angry, or start ordering him around, he'd be quick to stand up for himself. He'd rather just ignore Wyatt completely and just do what he had to do to get out of here. But the man seemed focused on starting a conversation, and Finn decided to be nice, for now. "Yeah." He said shortly, not knowing what else to say. The horse was nice, and Finn was interested, but he didn't want Wyatt to have any leverage over him. "What's the matter with him?" He questioned quietly, and then heard a commotion behind him. For a moment fear fled through him, but it didn't make any sense. He watched as the dog and then the girl hurried from the house, and then looked to her father once he called her name. Finn watched her for a moment, and then heard her words. "Uh, thanks." He said honestly, not having a problem with the little girl. He stepped back after a moment, putting more space between him and Wyatt, and then wondered what he was supposed to do now.

[Wyatt Parker]

Word Count: 444
Status: Complete

Finn stepped away from Wyatt, apparently uncomfortable with the space between them. Usually this was enough space for anyone else, but after thinking about it, Finn had more problems than those other people. He had to find a way through to Finn, and that route would be taken via the horses. They were the main components of the Troubled Teens Initiative. Caring for the horse created some room for compassion. Eventually that compassion had to leak out towards human contact as well. Wyatt rubbed his neck, watching Katy. She was scratching Gunner's ears, flopping them around.

" 'k. Bye."

She blew a messy kiss to Wyatt, giggling all the while and she squealed her delight, chasing Gunner off towards the barn. She was probably off to see Wildcat and Dee Boy, which made him a little bit nervous.

Katy, be careful!

He called after her, watching her with a careful eye before turning his stare onto Finn. Wyatt couldn't help how sharp his eyes looked in the light. Often they were sometimes snake-like if he had no familiarity or kindness in his expression.

He's a wild Nokota stallion. Pretty rough around the edges, but young. He'll come around once we start gentling him.

By "we", he had meant Lily and himself. Although he hadn't said it out loud. In one of the many paddocks here at Silver Stag, all of the TTI horses were gathered together. They had formed a small herd and had grown some kind of bond during their small amount of time together. The only rowdy one that really caused trouble was Xander. The Friesian was beautiful to look at, but a pain in the damn ass. Wyatt had only ridden Linda and Apollo. Pollo had spooked at a rabbit sprinting across the yard, nearly sending Wyatt out of the saddle. From past experience with easily-scared horses, Wyatt knew to keep a good grip with his legs. Linda, on the other hand, was a new experience for him. He had never ridden a heavy breed horse before, and damn, it felt like he was doing the splits getting on such a broad back rather than a lean Mustang.

How 'bout we check out the horses? You don't have to pick one of 'em now, but you can at least get a good look.

Wyatt made his suggestion, moving towards the porch steps, waiting for Finn whilst giving him more breathing space. With that wrist of his, he didn't suppose Finn would be doing any proper riding for a while, but he might be able to do a bit of grooming and bond with his horse before any actual riding took place.

[Finn Keagan]

As Finn stared out across the property, he had to admit that he was a little in awe. It was huge here, and nothing like what he had ever seen before. He didn't want to admit it to himself, but maybe he was going to like it here. He was still more than hesitant around Wyatt, but maybe that would pass with time. He couldn't allow himself to trust another adult like his father, but Wyatt wasn't his dad. That was the idea that he had to get his will around. Shaking his head slightly, Finn decided as of right now, he was just going to remain the way he was. He would know when he was ready and when he wasn't, and he would have to trust himself. That was a problem at this point though, for he didn't hold his trust in anyone, not even himself. He needed to get over that, and hopefully this program would help him do that. If he could trust a horse, maybe he could slowly start to trust the people around him.

Finn's eyes studied the little girl that had bounded out onto the front porch with the dog, and he couldn't help but wonder what her life had been like. She seemed lucky, but he would never make that assumption because you never knew how someone else's life was. Finn bit his bottom lip as he looked up as Wyatt spoke to her, and then watched as she hurried off after the dog named Gunner. They seemed happy enough, that was for sure. Sighing once more, he looked over his shoulder at the barn now, having finally taken his eyes off of the horse in the round pen. He was a bit frightening in all honesty, and Finn wondered who was the crazy person that had even considered taking that horse home. But then again, it might be the same way with him. Who would even consider taking in a crazy, messed up kid like himself? Finn flinched suddenly as Wyatt's words brought him from his thoughts, and he peered over at the man for a moment. The man's eyes were hard and angry looking, and for a moment, Finn lost himself. Wyatt's eyes were exactly like his father's at this time, and Finn's heart beat increased dramatically from fear. His eyes didn't show his emotions, but his bruised and broken face was paling rapidly, looking worse beneath the injuries. He stumbled backwards slightly, but Wyatt was speaking, and clearing the air around the now very razzled young man. His breathing was still quick as he looked back to Flyer, but he was slowly calming down and registering what Wyatt was saying to him. A little rough around the edges? Only a little? Finn shook his head in disagreement. "He looks insane." He commented, and Flyer than seemed to prove the boy's words.

There was a loud smack from the round pen, and that was caused by the stallion within it. He had kicked out with his hind legs at the enclosure, and it rattled around him. His hooves were powerful, and could be deadly if they hit someone in the right way. He then tossed his head with a bugle mixed with fury and challenge, which would no doubt get the other stallion on the premises riled up, especially since Hero was the dominant one here. It was Hero's ranch first, and he probably wouldn't be happy about the new stallion that had just arrived here. Flyer tossed his head in frustration, but soon slowed to the middle of the pen once more, trying to figure out how to get out of here. Finn shook his head, and then looked to Wyatt as he started forward, asking if he wanted to see the horses. Finn followed him down, but kept his distance. If he wasn't in the range of WYatt, then he couldn't be hit. That was how he viewed everything. As the man spoke, Finn nodded his head. "Okay." He wanted to meet the horses, and even though he was about to say he didn't want to do anything, he couldn't turn down meeting them. He stepped behind Wyatt, making sure he was still out of hitting distance. He was excited, but he would never admit it.

[Wyatt Parker]

Word Count: 544
Status: Complete
Lyrics: Because Of You by Kelly Clarkson

Finn acted exactly like Pollo when he looked at Wyatt. With the boys sudden reaction and quick breathing, Wyatt had to wonder if he was about to have a panic attack. He stepped back, wondering what the hell he was going to do if that happened, when Finn seemed to calm down, but not much. Giving the teenager some breathing space, Wyatt stepped back, which was what both of them had ended up doing. Still in hearing distance, despite the distance between them, he began to wonder how all of this would have turned out if Lily hadn't left. Wyatt wouldn't have the motivation to take care of these kids, because his reasoning behind the whole thing was her leaving. These teenagers had, more often than not, been abandoned by their parents, whether it was mentally, emotionally or physically. Looking at Katy in the distance, he felt a surge of protectiveness and a tight pang in his chest. He couldn't let that little girl go, and during any time of the day, maybe not every day, Wyatt told her that he loved her. She would stretch her arms out, even her fingers, telling him that she loved him "this much". Having your own children was like nothing else. Raising a colt or a filly, or a budgie or a puppy or a kitten - none of those really gave you the same experience as having your own kids. It was an experience that could not be compared.

No, just young. First impressions don't always give you the real thing.

Wyatt replied. Having had Finn just call his wife's horse insane, Wyatt couldn't help but picture Lil defending her horse against the word. Then Wyatt grew uncomfortable. Now he was using her nickname as well as the reference of her being his wife in the same sentence. Apparently his old "habits" were resurfacing.

I will not make the same mistakes that you did
I will not let myself
Cause my heart so much misery
I will not break the way you did,
You fell so hard
I've learned the hard way
To never let it get that far

Because of you
I never stray too far from the sidewalk
Because of you
I learned to play on the safe side so I don't get hurt
Because of you
I find it hard to trust not only me, but everyone around me
Because of you
I am afraid

Finnegan had agreed to come with Wyatt, and he supposed that it was a start. He couldn't expect much more than this from the teen, but hopefully those expectations would grow over the coming weeks.

Alright, then.

Finn followed him when the rancher went down he porch steps then began the trek towards the paddocks. It looked longer than you'd first think, but he was used to walking this distance at least ten times a day, if not more. When there was so much to be done with so little daylight, you had to work hard to make sure everything was done, and that it was done professionally and properly. Wyatt had pulled on his stetson, looking up ahead at the horses.

There are four horses in total. Apollo, Linda, Love Me Sweet and Xander. Most of them have traumatic backgrounds, with the exception of Linda. She's just got a sensitive back.

He explained, looking over at Finn. Wyatt had led them to the four horses, all of which pricked their ears towards the sound of his voice. Linda separated herself from the herd, trotting towards the fence line where she waited, whinnying and shaking her head.

That'd be Linda.

He pointed her out. Sweet watched, but the palomino rolled his eyes, flicking his tail from side to side. He watched the pair cautiously, sticking by Apollo whom also stood his ground.

[Finn Keagan]

Finn took a deep breath for a moment and tried to steady himself. Maybe this hadn't been such a good idea. Maybe he should have chosen jail, or the hospital. They wanted to put him there to monitor him. Maybe his life had screwed him up so much that he was doing the things he did because he wasn't mentally stable. It was easily proven, but Finn refused to believe that he was crazy. He wasn't crazy, he was just messed up. He wasn't doing the things he did for extra attention...he was doing it so that he could support himself and stay away from the adults that brought so much harm to him. Why would he want to be around any of them when all they did was put him in uncomfortable situations? His father had abused him in more ways than one, and ways that he would never speak about to anyone. The thing is, Finn needed to talk about his problems in order to get past them. But he never would.

Or so he believed. He didn't want to tell anyone about what had happened to him. He just wanted to continue being angry at the world because it was the easiest thing for him to do right now. He couldn't grasp any other ideas at the moment. He just wanted to keep hating the adults. Why shouldn't he? None had given him any reason to trust them or to even begin to like them. The cops he came across usually tackled him to the ground and yanked him around, and once they got to the police station, they locked him in a room. And while in that locked room, they shoved another adult into the room for questioning. So there Finn was, hand-cuffed and left unable to protect himself in case the man started swinging or doing something else, and they expected him to be compliant. He didn't think so. The truth was, even before they started questioning, he'd start shaking and trembling before he could stop himself, but he just told them all that he was cold. It was a simple explanation, and they usually believed it. Until the day his father called because he had beaten Finn into an unconcience state. Then they knew he was shaking because he was afraid, and Finn's cover was blown. They were more careful then, but they still locked him in the room with the adult. It was protocol...they couldn't change it for a scared kid.

And now...now he was in the middle of no where. And there were no kids around. Just adults. Stable hands and ranch workers, and now Wyatt standing in front of him. The only other child was the little girl, but what good was she? She couldn't fight against anyone in case he was going to get another beating, and Finn was not comfortable. They continued putting him in these situations, and he was starting to grow tired of it. So as Wyatt spoke up again about the horse in the round pen, he sighed and just kept his distance. He was going to have to be careful here, that was all. He was in the middle of no where, so if Wyatt really wanted to kill him or hurt him then he could do it without an issue. Finn had to stop thinking like that...thinking that no one would hear him cry for help. Okay, he needed happier thoughts. Like thoughts about the horses. His intelligence took over at Wyatt's response about the horse. Did his words have a double meaning? Was Finn supposed to realize something from the man's words. He wasn't going to think about it. Staying quiet for the time being, he followed after Wyatt and was soon walking behind him. When Wyatt stopped and started talking about the four horses in the paddock, Finn kept his distance but one could tell that he wanted to see the horses. But seeing them meant being closer to Wyatt, and he couldn't chance that. He didn't want to be in anymore pain than he already was. Sighing once more, he nodded his head. "They're nice." He was being difficult and he knew it, but he didn't want Wyatt to think that he'd be easy to control. He was tired of people walking all over him, so he wasn't going to make it easy for Wyatt now. He kept his distance, wondering if the man was going to get angry at his rudeness or something of the sort.

[Wyatt Parker]

Word Count: 413
Status: Complete

Linda was still making a fuss, eagerly awaiting some attention. Wyatt had forgotten to bring out the sugar cubes for the old lady, which was probably why she was looking 'bright eyed and bushy tailed'. Wyatt had to smile as he approached the mare. Meanwhile, the other three horses stayed put. Xander began to stray from this pattern as he grew curious, apparently remembering the sugar cubes as he too made his way towards the fence. Sweet would be the only one to keep his distance. It didn't stop Wyatt from ducking under the fence and coming alongside Linda. Xander pushed his way towards Wyatt, immediately going for the man's open hand as he had been showing Linda that he didn't have the treats she was looking for.

And this is Xander.

Wyatt looked exasperated already. Xander was a flat out bully and a nuisance at that. Still, he was eventually going to help someone. Hopefully.

If you want to come in, feel free.

Wyatt said, making sure to look at Finn when he said this. Linda found her way back to Wyatt and Xander pushed off. The young gelding then turned as he was backing up and was met with the sight of Finn. The Friesian's coat quivered around his shoulders as he pricked his ears forwards. Eyeing the new face Xander threw up his head, snorting and nipping Linda on the hindquarters to get her attention. She squealed and flattened her ears, turning back to Wyatt and pricking her ears forwards. She nibbled at his hand then enjoyed the attention as Wyatt stroked her neck.

Pollo seemed to show no interest in any of them. It was Love Me Sweet who was the nervous one. He didn't break out in a sweat like he used to, but he was still rather jittery around humans. Around horses he was safe, this had become his herd after all. The palomino wasn't coming around, but no one expected such a quick transformation. Sweet's ears moved back and forth until eventually he spooked when Linda squealed. He had backed up into Pollo, who snorted and moved casually out of the way whilst Sweet fretted. Wyatt watched the geldings antics, brushing his fingers through his own hair.

Sweet will come around. He just needs a kind hand.

Wyatt hadn't meant it, but he might have sounded like he was hinting a bit. Well, it wouldn't be such a bad thing if that did happen, would it?

[Finn Keagan]

Finn couldn't help himself. He loved horses, and had spent time with them when he was living back at home. Horses had been his escape from his father and from the ache in his heart over losing his mother. He was so bitter because he had lost his mother. She had been the only one that had ever shown him love and attention, and it was something that Finn desperately needed now. He needed someone to show him that not every person was going to bring him harm. Especially not Wyatt Parker. But Finn couldn't help it. He was terrified of people, especially the males that he came across. Who could blame the kid though? His father had hit him with more objects than Finn had thought was originally possible. This last beating had traumatized him, simply because he had never experienced so much pain before in his life. At least not physically anyway. He honestly thought that he was going to lose his life that night, but his father had sobered up enough to realize that he needed to call the ambulance.

Finn sighed softly now. There was still the hidden fear that his father would make it out of jail somehow, and the man would find him. Finn had nightmares, and he was really nervous about sleeping in the bunkhouse with other people. That's why he planned on doing what he had done at home. The stable had been a mile down the road, and Finn didn't care about the amount of time it took him to run there. He really would jog, and it would get him there in about five minutes. He would then sneak into the barn and climb up the ladder to the hay loft. There he would unpack his bag. He had his sleeping bag and an extra blanket, as well as a pillow for himself. That allowed him to sleep in the hayloft, which was exactly what he needed. He was going to do that here, not caring if he got caught or not. Sleeping in the hayloft brought him comfort, and he wanted that. He needed that now, so he hoped that the horses could bring him that. Being around the animals once more was already putting him at peace. Even in Wyatt's presence, it was easy to see the change in the young man as he took Wyatt's invitation, and followed him into the paddock. His shoulders were no longer tense and stiff, and his face no longer held a fearful expression. He was calm and at ease, and exactly where he belonged. It was plain to see that this program would probably be good for Finnegan.

Finn's eyes took in the forms of the horses hungrily. He wanted to be with them again, brushing and caring for them. The young man couldn't wait to ride again, and he knew he'd be doing it before he got his cast off. If he was careful, it wouldn't matter. Ignoring his wrist now, his blue green eyes switched over to Xander as Wyatt introduced the friesian gelding. The horse was gorgeous, but Finn found that he wasn't a fan of the pushy nature and attitude of the horse. He liked him well enough, and the horse's antics made the first smile crack across Finn's face. He hadn't smiled in a really long time, and it almost felt foreign to his face. Feeing suddenly guilty, he let it slip away and then looked to the horse that Wyatt was pointing at. His heart skipped a beat as his eyes focused on the palomino. Finn didn't know what it was, but he felt instantly connected to the horse. He didn't know if the horse would feel the same connection, but Finn suddenly felt even more at peace. So much, that he was being polite and honest to Wyatt. The look in the horse's eye was something that Finn had experienced so much during his life. He knew how this gelding felt. He knew what Sweet was feeling, and that bothered him. He didn't want anyone to feel that way, whether they be horse or human. His voice was quiet, but he was loud enough to hear. "What happened to him?" He managed to get out, but was afraid to hear the answer. His eyes never left Sweet's body, and he wondered what had happened to the horse to make him this way. He found himself wanting to go to the gelding, but it was obvious he'd never be accepted. He wanted to be though, more than he ever thought he would want to be when he first found out he was coming here.

[Wyatt Parker]

Word Count: 496
Status: Complete

When Wyatt back over at Finn, he nearly had to do a double take. The teen had come into the paddock willingly and when he didn't look conscious of what he was doing, he actually looked happy. The smile that broke across the kids face gave Wyatt more hope then the reclusive young man that he had met originally. He had stopped stroking Linda's neck and she nudged him relentlessly to get his attention. Linda really was a beautiful horse and the entire herd were all very good-looking. You couldn't believe the kind of treatement that some of them had been exposed to. Pollo had been abandoned, and so had Xander. Linda was just 'retired' but Sweet had received the worst of it. When asked what had happened to Sweet, Wyatt wasn't sure if he should tell Finn. After a moments deliberation, he came out with it.

He was sold to an abusive owner. He was spurred, hit regularly with a crop. And I'm not talkin' light taps now and again.

He shook his head, disbelieving of his maltreatment once again. Thinking it was bad enough but saying it out loud made his blood boil.

He was also forced to wear a contraption 'round his neck. They used to use it back when they still rode around in carriages. It prevents a horse from moving his neck at all, it even restrains the head.

Sweet was watching them, his brown eyes wide. Then with a sudden jump he trotted rather briskly towards Pollo, his eyes rolling. There was always safety in numbers, instinct told him that.

Still workin' on his case though. Sweet won't let me close enough to groom him.

By the look of Sweet's coat, what Wyatt said was true. It was dirty and his mane was matted, as well as his tail.

Be a damn beauty if he hadn't been treated so badly.

Wyatt whistled, going from a high to a low note. Sweet looked his way but he got a reply from the other end of the paddocks. Hero had whinnied, sounding impatient. When Wyatt saw his stallion, the mustang was scuffing the dirt with his front hoof, looking rather fierce as he sped off with his tail held high. All of the horses seemed rather active this morning, impatient for attention that Wyatt had not yet provided. Wyatt had not seen the look in Finn's eyes when he had seen Sweet for the first time. But now that he thought about it, they both had the same backgrounds. Both were abused and both were scared of people in general. He now looked between the two of them, trying to imagine how the pair might work out together. It could be the worst thing to do, or the best. There could be frustration because Sweet was not quite so willing to give in to a human touch as Finn might be to want to touch Sweet.

Any takers?

He cautioned to ask.

[Finn Keagan]

The young man was quiet around the horses, and it seemed obvious that he had worked with the animals before. One of his two jobs back at home had been at the local stable, and that was where he really found himself. He never really had time to enjoy himself any other time, so working at the barn had brought him the fun he needed. It wasn't like a job to him, and his love for the animals was apparent. Horses had helped Finn find himself, and he wouldn't have been what he was without them. His father had ruined that though. His father had taken what little confidence the kid had and stripped it from him. Finn didn't understand what he had done to make the man hate him so much, and he still didn't. It was a mystery, and something that broke the kid's heart. His mother had been the only one that loved him, and she had been taken away from him. It was after that that his father had turned into the abuser that he was. It didn't make any sense to Finn, and he didn't know why he was thinking about it now.

As he stood almost rock solid in the middle of the pasture, his eyes looked around at the other horses gathered around. Linda seemed to be the most open and honest out of all of them, while Xander was aching for attention. His pushy attitude was the evidence of neglect and abandonment, and Finn really felt for the black gelding. But he wasn't drawn to him. He wasn't drawn to Linda or Pollo, and that bothered him. They seemed to have horrible lives as well, with the exception of Linda. She was hurting from a bad back. That could have been caused by something though. He sighed and then looked to the equine that was attracting him the most. Sweet's eyes were the things that really brought Finn in. Those eyes held so many familiar emotions, even for a human. Finn knew what was in those eyes, and he felt like he understood the confusion. Sweet couldn't possibly understand why he was treated the way he was, and Finn wasn't any better at answering that question about himself. The young man didn't know why anything or anyone was abused, but he wished that there was a way he could put a stop to it. He had been one of the lucky ones. He had gotten out barely, but he had gotten out with his life. Some weren't as well off as him. Some were trapped forever, or for a lot longer than himself. He didn't think he would have lived for much longer if he was left in that situation. And Sweet wouldn't have made it through his situation for much longer either if he wasn't rescued. It didn't seem fair, and as Finn stared at the broken horse, he felt his own broken spirit inside of himself. This seemed impossible. There was no point to doing this, but Finn had run out of options. It was either this, or jail. If he could help a horse, then this was so much more worth it.

He stood in the same place, in the same position, as Wyatt started in on Sweet's story. As Finn listened to the gelding's past, he felt a piece of him break all over again. He really did know how the horse felt. His eyes switched for the body of the gelding and down to his own cast and battered body. He hadn't been whipped, but the physical pain that was brought down upon him was enough to leave the marks that everyone could see now. He wished his eye wasn't bruised and swollen any longer, and he wished that his mother was still alive. Then none of this would have happened. Everything would be fine, and he'd be happy. His father would be normal and happy as well. Sighing, he shook his head and then chanced a glance over at Wyatt. He was keeping his distance, and Finn was glad for it. He wasn't being pressured or pushed at the moment. The young man looked back to Sweet, and knew that the pain was going to come rushing back to him. Visions of that night clouded his mind as they usually did when he was having a flashback. It was one of his symptoms that Wyatt would know about, and it was happening now. Sometimes they were really bad, and other times that lasted two seconds. This one wasn't good though. He stumbled backwards a step and found himself trying not to cry out. After a moment, he suddenly stopped in his tracks, listening to the end of the story and to Wyatt's question. He tried to answer, but nothing was coming forward. He froze now, his eyes appearing as if he was staring out into thin air. Fear took over his features, and his good fist clenched as his body started trembling. It lasted only a few seconds, but after he came to, it was obvious he was shaken. Remembering Wyatt's question, he shook his head and started backing up hurriedly, but quietly so he wouldn't spook the horses. "No. No, this is stupid. I hate this program, and I hate this place. This was a horrible idea, and I can't possibly do this. I'm no good here, so just call the cops and I'll go back to jail." He finally spoke, and was soon up and over the fence again. He had to get out of here. Finn knew where the bunk house was, and he started towards it the first chance he got. Hearing Sweet's story had brought everything flying back to him, and he was trying his best to hide the fact that he was now crying. He reached the bunkhouse soon enough and disappeared inside, landing on one of the bed's that was opened to him and the other TTI kids without homes. He sat down with his back against the wall and his knees up in front of him. Wiping angrily at his eyes, he blinked away the last of his tears and stared angrily into space. He wasn't staying here. There was no way.

[Wyatt Parker]

Word Count: 810
Status: Complete

Wyatt had never really known what it was like to be abused. In fact, he knew shit all about abuse. He had only seen it in the movies and that wasn't much to go by when you were experiencing it in real life. Who could you tell? Who could you go to for sanctuary from a cruel hand or a fowl mouth? What could you do when you were just a small kid trying to hide and there was an adult rapping fiercely on the door? Who would care enough about you to take you in and care for you? When you were starving yourself and emotionally blanking from the experiences you went through, you became a hollow shell. Wyatt knew that much. For the past two years he had become rather hollow, having only his daughter to care for. He could remember a night that had terrified him, and it was only a few weeks ago. He had been about to walk into his daughters room to tuck her in for the night but he stopped in the doorway. Katy had her back turned to him and she was looking at a photo of Wyatt and Lily. It was from their wedding day. The photo was with Lily enveloped in his arms as they kissed passionately at the altar, having just said their "I do's". That was when they were younger and much happier. Wyatt had hoped to move on, but with Katy asking so many questions and bringing out these photos, Wyatt had started to break down piece by piece. He had left, wandering back to his own room where he sat on the edge of the bed with his head in his hands. He wanted to punch the wall as hard as he could, or do something to bring out all of his pent up anger and emotions. He had sat like that for quite a while before eventually going back to Katy, tucking her in before going back to his room. He had never slept on Lily's side of the bed and he stared at it then, with his back up against the wall, his arms crossed over his chest...just staring. Wyatt didn't remember how, but somehow he landed up on his own side of the bed, waking in a sweat and breathing heavily. The images of his father gripping at his clothes, begging Wyatt for something that he couldn't remember. But the look in his fathers eyes had terrified Wyatt to the point where he began to shake. Deep breaths didn't help. Nothing could take away the emotions that gripped at him, clawing away pieces of him bit by bit. And now?

Now he was staring into the glazed eyes of a teenager who had come to him for help. Not necessarily of his own accord. It was this or jail. Finn was speaking quietly, having stumbled back and now looking at Wyatt. Wyatt could only stare as the kid ran off towards the bunker house.

Finn!

He called after the teenager. Sweet had been watching and whinnied, holding his tail up high as he seemed to show a little curiosity. He didn't understand the sudden commotion and became more nervous than curious. Wyatt removed his stetson, running his fingers roughly through his hair before pursuing Finn. He jogged up to the bunker house, climbing the steps and reaching the door. He knocked on the door, standing with his shoulder pressed up against the wall.

Kid?

He knocked again. No response. He stayed quiet for a while, listening to the sobs. Wyatt removed his stetson, opening the door and stepping through. He stayed by the door for the moment, looking at Finn with his knees up against his chest, against the wall on the bed. The guy looked angry, suddenly so bitter. But Wyatt wasn't about to let Finn decide so suddenly to leave.

So, you're gonna sit there and tell me that you're going to let that son of a bitch ruin you?

Wyatt didn't often swear in front of someone he didn't know too well. And his tone sounded firm, but not at all menacing.

Kid, its either this or jail. And I saw you smile. I ain't gonna give up on you so easily and you shouldn't give up so easily either. I know your dad took a lot from you. He took more than anyone should. But you have to find a way to build yourself back up again. Your life doesn't end with him.

Wyatt spoke passionately about his words, showing minimal anger, which was shown whenever he referred to Finnegan's father. Otherwise when he spoke directly tot he teen, he spoke a little bit softer. Wyatt was going to show the young man that he was here to help, and that he was offering a solution, not a problem.

[Finn Keagan]

This had been a horrible idea. Coming here was the worst thing he could have ever been forced to do since the beating he had experienced that night. All of the little hits and the punches had led up to this night, and Finn hadn't believed it was happening. It was like he was watching from the distance as some other kid got beaten half to death by his own father. Finn was broken hearted, and that was the thing that was going to be the hardest to fix. His trust in humans was shattered, and his trust in himself was almost nonexistent. He was more like the palomino gelding in the pasture then he wanted to admit to, and that was saying a lot. Finn loved horses, and to see him refuse to care and connect with one was a rareity. It showed how ruined he honestly was. The young man was now shaking visibly as he leaned against the wall, and he grabbed for his bag. Going into the front compartment, he pulled out a crumpled picture that looked as if it had seen better days.

Finn worked hard at smoothing it out, and soon clung to the photograph in his hands. In it there was a young blonde kid, and he was looking up into the eyes of a woman who he resembled almost to a tee. She had long dirty blonde hair that fell to cover her green blue eyes. Her smile lit her entire face, and Finn's smaller self was mirroring that facial expression. He seemed to be laughing as she stood behind him and brought her arms around him in a hug. Finn remembered that day perfectly, and he knew exactly who was snapping the picture. His father. The man had been happy and manageable then, and hadn't shown any signs of being an abusive being. That had all changed when the cancer had killed her. She had abandoned Finn and his father, and she had left her son with a now abusive and depressed, rather large man. His strength and his power outdid Finn every single time, and Finn had been left helpless and in some serious agony. Finn's eyes glazed over as he stared wishfully at the picture, willing that scene to come to life again. Maybe then everything would be different. Maybe then things would be how they were supposed to be. He sighed quietly to himself and then wiped angrily at his eyes for the last time. There were no more tears for him to cry because Finn wasn't a cryer. He didn't usually do it, and it was a surprise to him now. He felt weak and even more vulnerable, and he hated that. Sighing softly once more, he wiped once more to make sure he looked alright, and then felt his heart skip a beat when he heard a knock on the door, followed by his name. He didn't want to talk to Wyatt now...he couldn't face him after that embarrassment.

Maybe if he was quiet Wyatt would just go away. But that wasn't the case. Finn stuffed the photo back into the front pocket and zippered the backpack, his eyes looking up at the man in front of him with visible fear. It would take him a while to wipe those expressions from his face. His good hand went to his casted wrist, and he held it subconciously, trying to figure out what to do in this situation. He sank back into the bed and tried to disppear into the wall like he usually had done when his father advanced, but it wasn't working that well. He wasn't going anywhere. He finally swallowed past the fear welling in his chest, and allowed his eyes to harden from his bitterness and his anger...but most of all his frustration. When was it going to get better? When was he going to stop being afraid? Was he ever going to stop feeling the way he felt? He shifted slightly, and was soon standing by the bed, not wanting to feel that vulnerable with Wyatt right there, looming above him, and looking rather upset. Finn knew that look, and it had always gotten worse in his experiences. As Wyatt spoke out first, Finn was surprised to hear the curse, and he flinched a little at the sudden change of tone. But the anger overshadowed it, and as he listened to Wyatt's words, he didn't know what else to do but yell back. He didn't care if he got in trouble, for what could Wyatt honestly do? Finn was already broken enough, and he was sure he wouldn't feel much more pain. He wasn't happy that the man saw him smile, but he couldn't change that. Clenching his good fist, he finally started speaking back. "What do you know? What could you possibly understand, how could you? He took everything from me...he took everything. I don't have anything or anyone because of him, and look at me now. When is this going to stop? I don't know what else to do, but apparently you know everything! So tell me what to do then, just like everyone else. My life already ended before he ruined what was left. How is this place...how are those horses going to help me? And how do you think you're going to help people when those horses are just as bad off. This doesn't make sense...this doesn't seem like it will work. It's a stupid dream, and I'm tired of getting my hopes up." He finished spitefully, and started making his way around Wyatt. He had to get out of here. He had to go anywhere, do anything that didn't involve this place, and he didn't care what he did. Wyatt would never understand, and the only way was for Finn to explain what happened exactly that night. He had never told anyone, and it was something that he needed to get off of his chest in order to move forward in his life. He also needed to talk about his mother, which seemed like an impossible task. If he was ever going to get better, he needed to accomplish those things. And Wyatt was his last resort...his last chance. This was the end of the road for Finn, and he needed to open and let Wyatt in.