DISCLAIMER: I own nothing, yet again. Part of this is based on Kimberly NOT sending the letter to Tommy. It just would not happen in one of my stories. Anyway, here is where you find out how Kayla (Kay) came to be, due to another flash back. A long flashback. Kay, Charles, Apoc and others are my creation. PLEASE don't steal them. Sorry about the confusion where it comes to my characters. I always have to add something of my own in. Also, no Emily. I never really liked her anyway. Keep in mind, this is NOT a short story, nor a short chapter. And please review. PLEEEAASE!!!!!
June 10, 2001
The System; Main Central
4:30pm
Stepping up to the console, she turned to face the far door. Taking a deep breath, she relaxed as much as possible.
"How ya doing today Miss Kay?" A tall dark skinned handsome man acknowledged. Kayla smiled as she looked at her long time friend.
"Tired Apoc, how about yourself?"
"Wonderful with one of my dream women walking around." He teased. Kay shook her head with a soft chuckle; "Oh, this is for you." Apoc handed her two files.
"What's this?"
"This is your info on your partners." Kay frowned.
"What do you mean partners? I thought there was only one involved." Apoc reached over and flipped open the first file.
"You have you work cut out for you." Kay looked down and stood shocked to see a picture of the NYPD Homicide Detective, Sara Pezzini staring up at her.
"Oh, you have got to be kidding me." Kayla turned to him irritated, ignoring the hushed breaths of some of the facilitators. None of them liked to see her angered, for they knew what she could do. Not that she would though. Apoc closed his eyes and gritted his teeth.
"Not so loud please." Kay frowned at his reaction. Only to notice his head nod toward the door. Slowly she turned to see two figures standing a few feet in front of the door. Surrounded by her men. Kay caught her breath in her throat when she saw them. She knew the female was Sara, but, could the man be, ... who she thought it was. Absently she handed the files to Apoc. Slowly, she made here way down from the console toward the two. The closer she got, the more nervous she became. About twenty yards away from the two she froze. No one was supposed to know about her 'side job'.
The look on Jason's face was almost funny as he looked around at the beings that walked about him. Slowly his eyes wandered to the being in front of him. One, how ever looked human. He studied her closely as she stepped away from what looked like the main control area. When she froze, so did he.
"Oh my ..." Sara's interest became peaked at his words.
"What?" Slowly her eyes followed the direction of his, and froze as well.
Time seemed to stand still as Kay stared at Jason. Painfully aware of the black Lycra uniform she had on. Standard for a female, since it constricted too much movement in certain areas and left extended movement in others.
The uniform did not hide her figure from Jason's flaming gaze. Which had barely moved when he recognized her. Swallowing the sight of her curvy waist and the rounded shape of her breasts under the tight uniform. Of course Jason had seen her in a bathing suit, a bikini at that. But this was too much. Jason could see the tight muscles of her stomach contract when she froze. He had always admired a woman that had a stomach that looked almost better then his. And her legs. Oh man, he had rarely seen those type of muscular legs on a female. Powerful, yet so delicate.
Kayla's body went up in flames when she realized that he had been staring at her. Collecting her thoughts, she turned and walked back over to Apoc.
"Man, he has it bad." He muttered as Kay took the files from him. Kay growled under her breath at Apoc. She glanced up to see a smirk at the corner of his mouth.
"Don't fucking start Apoc. I'm not in the mood." At that he did laugh. She brought the files down in front of her. Closing her eyes; "Apoc." He didn't hear her; "Apoc." She said a little louder. He heard her, but couldn't stop. Kay was getting frustrated; "Apoc!" She nearly screamed. Causing the room to freeze at her loud voice; "Knock. It. Off." Apoc jumped at her loud voice. The laughter leaving him immediately.
Across the station, a smirk came to Jason's face. He couldn't help it. He knew of Kay's temper and never dared challenge it. But he had also known her longer then these people.
"Is she going to be able to work on this mission with out exploding?" Sara wondered quietly. Jason's face, streaked with laughter he was holding back.
"With out a doubt." He erupted with laughter. Kayla froze. The laugh sent pleasant shivers down her back.
"Jason." She said loudly. The beings looked back and forth between the too; "That's enough from you too." His laughter quieted down, leaving a broad smile on his face.
"What ever you say oh Silver One." The laugh still trying to escape. He loved teasing her. She took it so well.
Kayla closed her eyes tight. It took everything in her not to explode. Jason was teasing her and she knew it. Shaking her head, she opened her eyes. Quickly she glanced at Jason and Sara. Letting out a slow breath, she grabbed two more files from the console and made her way over to the two police officers.
Again, Jason drank in the sight of her. The way her hips swayed. Her breasts that barely moved under her uniform. Her strong shapely legs that made him quiver at the thought of them around his waist. He shook his head as she approached them.
"Welcome to my haven you two." Kay piped up. She handed them each a file marked 'Flesh'. Kay spared Sara a sorrowful glance before the file was opened; "I believe, Detective Pezzini, that this would be your case?" Sara looked at the pictures in front of her. She paled at the sight, but managed to nod.
Kay spared Jason a glance before she turned.
"Follow me please." She said quietly. Jason and Sara looked at each other then followed.
Kayla was very aware of Jason's eyes fixed on her backside. However the other pair of eyes she felt rather surprised her. She couldn't help but grin as the two followed her into her office. Before closing the door, she stuck her head out.
"Charles." The elder man turned to her from his position at the console; "Give us one hour and we'll be ready." The man nodded as Kay closed the door. She paused before turning around.
When she did, she caught Jason's smirk. Shaking her head, she walked over to her desk and sat down.
"Well, there goes the image of the timid scuba instructor and martial artist." Jason blurted out. Kay rolled her eyes.
"Very funny." Kay looked at Sara who was taking in everything she had in the office; "You alright Ms. Pezzini?"
"Yes. I'm just ... curious." Kay let herself relax slightly.
"Feel free to look around. Just ... don't touch anything. I don't want to be responsible for an accident." Sara nodded. Her curiosity getting the better of her. Kay smiled as her eyes followed Sara around the office. Jason watched silently at the exchange between them. Sara may not be interested, but Kay sure was.
"So, what is it you do here?" He asked, purposely distracting Kayla.
"I am head of the investigation division."
"How long have you been here?" Sara asked, not looking at them. Kay thought for a moment. This had been the reason she had left the rangers.
"Little over a year." Her vow of silence to Zordon had been something she would keep even if it meant her life. Because of Sara, she may have to break that vow. Shaking her head, Kay stood and stepped over to the locker she had. Opening it, she rummaged through until she found what she was looking for.
"Sara, catch." Sara turned to see a garment of some sort flying toward her. Catching it she shook it out.
"And what, am I supposed to do with this?" She said, eyeing her. Kay smirked.
"Put it on. Believe me, it may not look like much, but it helps in certain ... areas." Kayla's face flushed which sent Jason reeling. Both women stared at him, trying to control their coloring faces; "There's a bathroom over there." Kay pointed; "You can put something on over it if you like."
Happy to escape Jason's laughter, she hurried off. Kay sighed and sat on her desk in front of Jason.
"You know, that wasn't funny." Jason looked up at her. Still trying to get himself under control. However, as soon as he laid his eyes on the very close black clad body, his laughter died. Kayla knew he was staring again; "Look, this isn't anything you haven't seen before Jase." She stood and walked behind her desk to sit down. Now, it was Jason's turn to flush.
"Sorry Kay. It's just that, your other uniform had a shield, and ... other things." Kay looked down and cleared her throat.
"Wasn't there something you wanted to talk about?" She wondered, catching Jason off guard.
"Talk about?"
"Yea, you asked if you could talk to me privately before the test this afternoon." Quizzically Jason looked at her. How could she remember something like that at a time like this?
"Would you mind if we discussed that later?" Jason asked.
"Sure." She smiled slightly, remembering when she first met him.
(Flashback)
December 2, 1996
Angel Grove Youth Center
3:40 pm
The Youth Center was busy as people came in and out. All happy that school was out for the day. With the added excitement of Christmas just around the corner.
Six teens sat at a table close to the practice mat. Smiles on all faces.
She walked in quietly. Being new in town, she didn't know anyone, nor did she have the courage to talk to anyone. Her parents had suggested that she come here.
"It's a popular hang out. Maybe you'll make some friends." Her dad had told her.
Before she knew it, there she was. Feeling more uncomfortable then usual. Granted her past experiences with her training helped her stay calm, she couldn't help the nervousness.
Staying close to the wall, she walked over to the Juice Bar. The heavyset man behind the counter watched her quietly.
- Poor thing. She could probably use someone to talk to. - Somberly he walked over to her.
"Hi there, what can I get for you?" Kay turned suddenly at the new voice directed at her.
"Hi." She said almost timidly; "Just a bottle of water please." The man nodded and walked over to the cooler. The young girls eyes searched around here. Pretty much looking for a place to hide.
"Here you go." The man handed it to her happily; "You're new here, aren't you?" Kay dropped her head slightly.
"Yea." Always the shy one, she thought to her self. Her best friend from Manhattan had once told her. The man held out his hand.
"I'm Ernie. I run the Youth Center." She responded with a small smile.
"Kayla Tiann."
"Nice to meet you Kayla."
"You too." Kay smiled lightly as Ernie went off to attend to the rest of his customers.
Jason noticed her instantly when she walked in. Her long raven locks hanging down the middle of her back. Her gym bag hugged tightly around her shoulder. Ash gray shorts hugged her tan, muscled legs and her white tank top encased her upper body. The thing that got Jason, were the dark green eyes. Looking around nervously. He watched silently as she tried to hide from the crowd and make her way to the counter. He couldn't help but eyeing her backside as she walked.
"Jase?" Rocky noticed Jason's attention diverted. He didn't hear.
"Jason?" Adam's voice didn't come through. Tanya's eyes followed in the direction of Jason's. A tiny smirk appeared on her face. Tommy's was the only voice that came through.
"Jase, man you ok?" Jason's face started turning a light shade of red.
"Huh? Yea man, I'm fine." Sitting straight, he leaned his elbows on the table.
"Ah ha, ha." Tanya's chirpy voice rose. Jason's head jerked up.
"What?" The twinkle in Tanya's eyes was unmistakable, as she leaned forward.
"So, did you like what you saw?" She asked innocently. Jason felt the rush of heat into his face again. Rocky frowned as he started to look around.
"What, I don't see anything." Adam shook his head as he too looked around the Youth Center. Adam, however, did notice what Jason did. How could he not?
- God, she's a knockout. - The young Asian thought to himself.
"Go talk to her Jase." The sultry Australian accent of Kat's told him. By then, the rest had noticed the shy almost timid girl that had caught Jason's attention.
"I ... I don't know guys." His own shyness taking over.
"Go ahead man." Tommy set a hand on Jason's broad shoulder.
"Go, before Rocky starts telling his girl jokes again." Tanya teased. Rocky threw her a look and stuck his tongue out. The rangers couldn't help but laugh at Rocky's expense. Yet again.
"Hey, I happen to think my jokes are funny." Jason shook his head as his own laugh joined his friends.
"That's the problem Rocko, you think to much." Tommy teased.
"Ah, come on guys, give the poor guy a break." Jason broke out.
"Thank you Jason."
"Even if his jokes are horrible." That sent them laughing again.
Kayla looked around quietly. The laughter burst startled her. She turned her head to see the six obvious friends laughing over something. - Probably me. - She didn't know it couldn't be further from the truth. She did notice something though. The midnight eyes from the guy facing her.
"Can I ask you a question?" Ernie asked walking up to her again. She faced him again.
"Sure."
"Have you any interest in Karate?" He asked nonchalantly. This surprised her. Where she came from, karate was looked down on by the community. They saw it as violence and nothing more.
"Yea actually. I've been looking for a dojo to continue my training, but I haven't found one."
"How long have you been at it?" He wondered, interestingly.
"About seven years. Why?" Ernie nodded toward the wall on the other side of the Youth Center. Slowly, Kay turned and followed his gaze. Her dark brows shot up at the sight; "Who won those?" She asked, turning back.
"Most of them were won by two of the guys sitting over at that table." He pointed out the table in which Tommy and Jason sat still laughing at Rocky. Kay's eyes widened slightly. - Wow. I just might be able to get used to
this. -
"Tell you what. See that mat over there?" She turned to the practice mat and nodded; "If you ever want to practice, go for it." Kay smiled softly.
"Thank you." With a smile, Ernie nodded and walked away. There were already two people on the mat as she watched. Both, she could tell, were still in the beginning stage. Kay herself had achieved black belt a year earlier.
Gathering her courage, she stood from the stool and made her way to the corner of the mat. The younger of the two people suddenly came running toward her.
"Hi." He said with an outward smile. The boy looked to be about eleven.
"Hi there." She hadn't expected the friendliness this place caused in people.
"You want to join us?" He wondered. She thought for a moment. The other of the two was about sixteen. She was trying to help the youngster with his forms. With a soft smile, Kay nodded.
"Sure." The boy flashed a brilliant smile before taking her hand and pulling her toward his friend.
"Hi, I'm Candy." The girl thrust her hand toward Kay.
"I'm Kay." She accepted her hand gratefully. Candy turned to the boy.
"And this is Travis. We thought you looked kinda lonely over there." Kay shrugged her shoulders.
"I was actually." She admitted. Grateful to have someone to talk to, she took off her shoes and dropped her back on top of them.
Jason watched the new girl intently, still getting over his laughing fit. One of his elder students, Candy, had seen the raven-haired girl as she sat by herself. Candy was always one to help out someone new.
Kay paid careful attention to what Candy was showing Travis. She frowned slightly; there was an easier way of doing this.
"Would you mind if I interjected a little?" She asked softly.
"No. Go right ahead." Stepping out of the way, Kay took her place.
"When you drop into your stance, turn your toes out, just a little. Like this." She demonstrated for the boy; "You won't tip over as easy." The boy imitated the move. Much to his surprise, he had more balance; "Ok, now, when you jump, pull your back foot forward. About a foot from the front." Again he imitated; "Bend deep." He did; "Now jump." As instructed, he jumped into a near perfect jump spin kick; "Good."
"I did it." The boy exclaimed. The surprised look on Candy's face cause a smile on Kay's. Just then, the boy took off; "Sensei Jason, Sensei Jason. I did it. I did a jump spin kick."
Jason turned when he heard his tutoring name.
"That's great Travis, lets see." Again, Travis set up for it. And executed nearly perfect once again; "Wonderful. Who taught you that?" Automatically surmising that Candy had a hand in it.
"Kay did." Jason frowned.
"Who's Kay?" He inquired.
"Her. Over there, standing by Miss Candy." Jason's followed Travis's gaze, to find the beautiful brunette he had been admiring earlier. The two girls were talking with each other. Kay's eyes wandered over to Travis. She blushed instantly when she saw the midnight eyes looked at her.
"He's single you know." Candy elbowed her playfully. Kay blushed deeper, dropping her eyes; "He's also, Travis's instructor." Kay's brought her eyes back up to Candy.
"Really. That's interesting." She glanced again toward Travis and the small group of friends.
"Go on Jason, talk to her." Tanya urged. The boy grabbed Jason's hand and pulled him to his feet.
"Come on. I'll introduce you." Jason's eyes found his friends, hoping they would pull him back. No such luck. He knew that not even Trini would stop him from leaving. Tanya and Kat giggled relentlessly as the eleven year old tugged at his instructors arm. The guys were embarrassed for him, but couldn't help but laugh themselves.
"Here comes Travis." Kay turned to the boy, then immediately regretted it; "With Sensei Jason in tow." Suddenly Kay wanted to run. But couldn't move.
"Sensei, this is Kay. She taught me the kick." Jason felt himself flush as he reached his hand out to her. Slowly, Kay reached out as well.
"Kayla Tiann." She all but whispered.
"Jason Scott. Nice to meet you." All she could do was nod. She was all too aware of the black muscle shirt that was covering the bulging muscles of his shoulders. The blue jeans that were snug around his narrow waist, hugged his muscled legs. Though she couldn't get enough of his eyes. The midnight brown that seemed endless.
Candy watched the exchange closely. Suddenly feeling out of place.
"Travis, how about we go and perfect that kick." She suggested maneuvering the boy away. Kay silently wished Candy hadn't done that. Leaving her alone with him. Yet, part of her wanted to jump up and down in thanks.
"So uh ... how long have you been studying karate?" His deep voice reached her ears. Unconsciously, Kay crossed her arms over her chest.
"What makes you believe that I have studied karate?" She asked with a tiny grin. Jason smiled as he looked at his feet.
"It isn't everyday that a stranger can teach an eleven year old a kick that he's been trying to do for two months."
"True. I've been studying for ... seven years now." Jason raised his brows, rather surprised.
"Have you ever thought about teaching?" He wondered. She smiled and dropped her head.
"Actually, I was teaching for a while." Jason frowned. Had he hit a soft spot?
"Why not anymore?"
"We ... moved." Jason nodded thoughtfully.
He was quiet for a moment, then; "Why don't you join us?" Frowning, Kay lifted her head.
"Me?" She questioned.
"Yea. Besides, I owe you a soda for teaching Travis that kick. I've been working with him for two months on it." He gestured to the table where his friends were.
"No, really I couldn't impose." She started to shake her head.
"No imposition. Come on." Giving in, she nodded.
"Let me get my shoes." He nodded then turned to his friends. All five gave him thumbs up. He shook his head with a smile as he turned back to Kay. He caught his breath as he watched her lend down to pick up her bag and shoes.
- This is going to be interesting. - He thought to himself. - Relax Scott. She's new here. You're just being friendly. - Taking a deep breath, he closed his eyes. - Even if she does have a nice ass. - He mentally shook his head and opened his eyes. He saw her walk up to him.
"You sure your friends won't mind?" She asked worried.
"They won't mind at all. Shall we?" Kay flushed as she stepped past him and headed toward the table. Jason followed close behind; "Guys, this is Kayla."
"You can call me Kay." Lord knows everyone else does.
"Nice to meet you Kay." Tommy stuck his hand out, smiling. She accepted it gratefully.
"This is Tommy, Adam."
"Hi."
"Rocky."
"Nice to meet you." He nodded with a smile.
"Tanya." The darker skinned girl flashed a brilliant smile; "And Kat."
"Have a seat." The blonde scooted down a seat to make room for her. Kay's heart suddenly began to thud loudly in her ears as she sat next to the beautiful blonde. Her preferences became very known to her at a young age. And sitting next to Kat, was defiantly not helping. Jason immediately noticed what sitting next to Kat caused in their new friend.
- This is going to be very interesting. -
"Thanks." Kay slid slowly into the seat. She was uncomfortable to say the least. But for some strange reason, she felt she could trust them.
The afternoon flourished into was turning out to be some wonderful friendships.
(End Flashback)
"Kay." She didn't hear Jason at first, being lost in her own thoughts; "Kayla."
"Huh? What?" She turned her head to find Jason's hand on her shoulder.
"You ok?" She shrugged.
"Yea, never better." Jason shook his head as he sat back down.
"What am I going to do with you?" - I could think of a few things. -
"No idea Jason. No idea."
June 10, 2001
The System; Main Central
4:30pm
Stepping up to the console, she turned to face the far door. Taking a deep breath, she relaxed as much as possible.
"How ya doing today Miss Kay?" A tall dark skinned handsome man acknowledged. Kayla smiled as she looked at her long time friend.
"Tired Apoc, how about yourself?"
"Wonderful with one of my dream women walking around." He teased. Kay shook her head with a soft chuckle; "Oh, this is for you." Apoc handed her two files.
"What's this?"
"This is your info on your partners." Kay frowned.
"What do you mean partners? I thought there was only one involved." Apoc reached over and flipped open the first file.
"You have you work cut out for you." Kay looked down and stood shocked to see a picture of the NYPD Homicide Detective, Sara Pezzini staring up at her.
"Oh, you have got to be kidding me." Kayla turned to him irritated, ignoring the hushed breaths of some of the facilitators. None of them liked to see her angered, for they knew what she could do. Not that she would though. Apoc closed his eyes and gritted his teeth.
"Not so loud please." Kay frowned at his reaction. Only to notice his head nod toward the door. Slowly she turned to see two figures standing a few feet in front of the door. Surrounded by her men. Kay caught her breath in her throat when she saw them. She knew the female was Sara, but, could the man be, ... who she thought it was. Absently she handed the files to Apoc. Slowly, she made here way down from the console toward the two. The closer she got, the more nervous she became. About twenty yards away from the two she froze. No one was supposed to know about her 'side job'.
The look on Jason's face was almost funny as he looked around at the beings that walked about him. Slowly his eyes wandered to the being in front of him. One, how ever looked human. He studied her closely as she stepped away from what looked like the main control area. When she froze, so did he.
"Oh my ..." Sara's interest became peaked at his words.
"What?" Slowly her eyes followed the direction of his, and froze as well.
Time seemed to stand still as Kay stared at Jason. Painfully aware of the black Lycra uniform she had on. Standard for a female, since it constricted too much movement in certain areas and left extended movement in others.
The uniform did not hide her figure from Jason's flaming gaze. Which had barely moved when he recognized her. Swallowing the sight of her curvy waist and the rounded shape of her breasts under the tight uniform. Of course Jason had seen her in a bathing suit, a bikini at that. But this was too much. Jason could see the tight muscles of her stomach contract when she froze. He had always admired a woman that had a stomach that looked almost better then his. And her legs. Oh man, he had rarely seen those type of muscular legs on a female. Powerful, yet so delicate.
Kayla's body went up in flames when she realized that he had been staring at her. Collecting her thoughts, she turned and walked back over to Apoc.
"Man, he has it bad." He muttered as Kay took the files from him. Kay growled under her breath at Apoc. She glanced up to see a smirk at the corner of his mouth.
"Don't fucking start Apoc. I'm not in the mood." At that he did laugh. She brought the files down in front of her. Closing her eyes; "Apoc." He didn't hear her; "Apoc." She said a little louder. He heard her, but couldn't stop. Kay was getting frustrated; "Apoc!" She nearly screamed. Causing the room to freeze at her loud voice; "Knock. It. Off." Apoc jumped at her loud voice. The laughter leaving him immediately.
Across the station, a smirk came to Jason's face. He couldn't help it. He knew of Kay's temper and never dared challenge it. But he had also known her longer then these people.
"Is she going to be able to work on this mission with out exploding?" Sara wondered quietly. Jason's face, streaked with laughter he was holding back.
"With out a doubt." He erupted with laughter. Kayla froze. The laugh sent pleasant shivers down her back.
"Jason." She said loudly. The beings looked back and forth between the too; "That's enough from you too." His laughter quieted down, leaving a broad smile on his face.
"What ever you say oh Silver One." The laugh still trying to escape. He loved teasing her. She took it so well.
Kayla closed her eyes tight. It took everything in her not to explode. Jason was teasing her and she knew it. Shaking her head, she opened her eyes. Quickly she glanced at Jason and Sara. Letting out a slow breath, she grabbed two more files from the console and made her way over to the two police officers.
Again, Jason drank in the sight of her. The way her hips swayed. Her breasts that barely moved under her uniform. Her strong shapely legs that made him quiver at the thought of them around his waist. He shook his head as she approached them.
"Welcome to my haven you two." Kay piped up. She handed them each a file marked 'Flesh'. Kay spared Sara a sorrowful glance before the file was opened; "I believe, Detective Pezzini, that this would be your case?" Sara looked at the pictures in front of her. She paled at the sight, but managed to nod.
Kay spared Jason a glance before she turned.
"Follow me please." She said quietly. Jason and Sara looked at each other then followed.
Kayla was very aware of Jason's eyes fixed on her backside. However the other pair of eyes she felt rather surprised her. She couldn't help but grin as the two followed her into her office. Before closing the door, she stuck her head out.
"Charles." The elder man turned to her from his position at the console; "Give us one hour and we'll be ready." The man nodded as Kay closed the door. She paused before turning around.
When she did, she caught Jason's smirk. Shaking her head, she walked over to her desk and sat down.
"Well, there goes the image of the timid scuba instructor and martial artist." Jason blurted out. Kay rolled her eyes.
"Very funny." Kay looked at Sara who was taking in everything she had in the office; "You alright Ms. Pezzini?"
"Yes. I'm just ... curious." Kay let herself relax slightly.
"Feel free to look around. Just ... don't touch anything. I don't want to be responsible for an accident." Sara nodded. Her curiosity getting the better of her. Kay smiled as her eyes followed Sara around the office. Jason watched silently at the exchange between them. Sara may not be interested, but Kay sure was.
"So, what is it you do here?" He asked, purposely distracting Kayla.
"I am head of the investigation division."
"How long have you been here?" Sara asked, not looking at them. Kay thought for a moment. This had been the reason she had left the rangers.
"Little over a year." Her vow of silence to Zordon had been something she would keep even if it meant her life. Because of Sara, she may have to break that vow. Shaking her head, Kay stood and stepped over to the locker she had. Opening it, she rummaged through until she found what she was looking for.
"Sara, catch." Sara turned to see a garment of some sort flying toward her. Catching it she shook it out.
"And what, am I supposed to do with this?" She said, eyeing her. Kay smirked.
"Put it on. Believe me, it may not look like much, but it helps in certain ... areas." Kayla's face flushed which sent Jason reeling. Both women stared at him, trying to control their coloring faces; "There's a bathroom over there." Kay pointed; "You can put something on over it if you like."
Happy to escape Jason's laughter, she hurried off. Kay sighed and sat on her desk in front of Jason.
"You know, that wasn't funny." Jason looked up at her. Still trying to get himself under control. However, as soon as he laid his eyes on the very close black clad body, his laughter died. Kayla knew he was staring again; "Look, this isn't anything you haven't seen before Jase." She stood and walked behind her desk to sit down. Now, it was Jason's turn to flush.
"Sorry Kay. It's just that, your other uniform had a shield, and ... other things." Kay looked down and cleared her throat.
"Wasn't there something you wanted to talk about?" She wondered, catching Jason off guard.
"Talk about?"
"Yea, you asked if you could talk to me privately before the test this afternoon." Quizzically Jason looked at her. How could she remember something like that at a time like this?
"Would you mind if we discussed that later?" Jason asked.
"Sure." She smiled slightly, remembering when she first met him.
(Flashback)
December 2, 1996
Angel Grove Youth Center
3:40 pm
The Youth Center was busy as people came in and out. All happy that school was out for the day. With the added excitement of Christmas just around the corner.
Six teens sat at a table close to the practice mat. Smiles on all faces.
She walked in quietly. Being new in town, she didn't know anyone, nor did she have the courage to talk to anyone. Her parents had suggested that she come here.
"It's a popular hang out. Maybe you'll make some friends." Her dad had told her.
Before she knew it, there she was. Feeling more uncomfortable then usual. Granted her past experiences with her training helped her stay calm, she couldn't help the nervousness.
Staying close to the wall, she walked over to the Juice Bar. The heavyset man behind the counter watched her quietly.
- Poor thing. She could probably use someone to talk to. - Somberly he walked over to her.
"Hi there, what can I get for you?" Kay turned suddenly at the new voice directed at her.
"Hi." She said almost timidly; "Just a bottle of water please." The man nodded and walked over to the cooler. The young girls eyes searched around here. Pretty much looking for a place to hide.
"Here you go." The man handed it to her happily; "You're new here, aren't you?" Kay dropped her head slightly.
"Yea." Always the shy one, she thought to her self. Her best friend from Manhattan had once told her. The man held out his hand.
"I'm Ernie. I run the Youth Center." She responded with a small smile.
"Kayla Tiann."
"Nice to meet you Kayla."
"You too." Kay smiled lightly as Ernie went off to attend to the rest of his customers.
Jason noticed her instantly when she walked in. Her long raven locks hanging down the middle of her back. Her gym bag hugged tightly around her shoulder. Ash gray shorts hugged her tan, muscled legs and her white tank top encased her upper body. The thing that got Jason, were the dark green eyes. Looking around nervously. He watched silently as she tried to hide from the crowd and make her way to the counter. He couldn't help but eyeing her backside as she walked.
"Jase?" Rocky noticed Jason's attention diverted. He didn't hear.
"Jason?" Adam's voice didn't come through. Tanya's eyes followed in the direction of Jason's. A tiny smirk appeared on her face. Tommy's was the only voice that came through.
"Jase, man you ok?" Jason's face started turning a light shade of red.
"Huh? Yea man, I'm fine." Sitting straight, he leaned his elbows on the table.
"Ah ha, ha." Tanya's chirpy voice rose. Jason's head jerked up.
"What?" The twinkle in Tanya's eyes was unmistakable, as she leaned forward.
"So, did you like what you saw?" She asked innocently. Jason felt the rush of heat into his face again. Rocky frowned as he started to look around.
"What, I don't see anything." Adam shook his head as he too looked around the Youth Center. Adam, however, did notice what Jason did. How could he not?
- God, she's a knockout. - The young Asian thought to himself.
"Go talk to her Jase." The sultry Australian accent of Kat's told him. By then, the rest had noticed the shy almost timid girl that had caught Jason's attention.
"I ... I don't know guys." His own shyness taking over.
"Go ahead man." Tommy set a hand on Jason's broad shoulder.
"Go, before Rocky starts telling his girl jokes again." Tanya teased. Rocky threw her a look and stuck his tongue out. The rangers couldn't help but laugh at Rocky's expense. Yet again.
"Hey, I happen to think my jokes are funny." Jason shook his head as his own laugh joined his friends.
"That's the problem Rocko, you think to much." Tommy teased.
"Ah, come on guys, give the poor guy a break." Jason broke out.
"Thank you Jason."
"Even if his jokes are horrible." That sent them laughing again.
Kayla looked around quietly. The laughter burst startled her. She turned her head to see the six obvious friends laughing over something. - Probably me. - She didn't know it couldn't be further from the truth. She did notice something though. The midnight eyes from the guy facing her.
"Can I ask you a question?" Ernie asked walking up to her again. She faced him again.
"Sure."
"Have you any interest in Karate?" He asked nonchalantly. This surprised her. Where she came from, karate was looked down on by the community. They saw it as violence and nothing more.
"Yea actually. I've been looking for a dojo to continue my training, but I haven't found one."
"How long have you been at it?" He wondered, interestingly.
"About seven years. Why?" Ernie nodded toward the wall on the other side of the Youth Center. Slowly, Kay turned and followed his gaze. Her dark brows shot up at the sight; "Who won those?" She asked, turning back.
"Most of them were won by two of the guys sitting over at that table." He pointed out the table in which Tommy and Jason sat still laughing at Rocky. Kay's eyes widened slightly. - Wow. I just might be able to get used to
this. -
"Tell you what. See that mat over there?" She turned to the practice mat and nodded; "If you ever want to practice, go for it." Kay smiled softly.
"Thank you." With a smile, Ernie nodded and walked away. There were already two people on the mat as she watched. Both, she could tell, were still in the beginning stage. Kay herself had achieved black belt a year earlier.
Gathering her courage, she stood from the stool and made her way to the corner of the mat. The younger of the two people suddenly came running toward her.
"Hi." He said with an outward smile. The boy looked to be about eleven.
"Hi there." She hadn't expected the friendliness this place caused in people.
"You want to join us?" He wondered. She thought for a moment. The other of the two was about sixteen. She was trying to help the youngster with his forms. With a soft smile, Kay nodded.
"Sure." The boy flashed a brilliant smile before taking her hand and pulling her toward his friend.
"Hi, I'm Candy." The girl thrust her hand toward Kay.
"I'm Kay." She accepted her hand gratefully. Candy turned to the boy.
"And this is Travis. We thought you looked kinda lonely over there." Kay shrugged her shoulders.
"I was actually." She admitted. Grateful to have someone to talk to, she took off her shoes and dropped her back on top of them.
Jason watched the new girl intently, still getting over his laughing fit. One of his elder students, Candy, had seen the raven-haired girl as she sat by herself. Candy was always one to help out someone new.
Kay paid careful attention to what Candy was showing Travis. She frowned slightly; there was an easier way of doing this.
"Would you mind if I interjected a little?" She asked softly.
"No. Go right ahead." Stepping out of the way, Kay took her place.
"When you drop into your stance, turn your toes out, just a little. Like this." She demonstrated for the boy; "You won't tip over as easy." The boy imitated the move. Much to his surprise, he had more balance; "Ok, now, when you jump, pull your back foot forward. About a foot from the front." Again he imitated; "Bend deep." He did; "Now jump." As instructed, he jumped into a near perfect jump spin kick; "Good."
"I did it." The boy exclaimed. The surprised look on Candy's face cause a smile on Kay's. Just then, the boy took off; "Sensei Jason, Sensei Jason. I did it. I did a jump spin kick."
Jason turned when he heard his tutoring name.
"That's great Travis, lets see." Again, Travis set up for it. And executed nearly perfect once again; "Wonderful. Who taught you that?" Automatically surmising that Candy had a hand in it.
"Kay did." Jason frowned.
"Who's Kay?" He inquired.
"Her. Over there, standing by Miss Candy." Jason's followed Travis's gaze, to find the beautiful brunette he had been admiring earlier. The two girls were talking with each other. Kay's eyes wandered over to Travis. She blushed instantly when she saw the midnight eyes looked at her.
"He's single you know." Candy elbowed her playfully. Kay blushed deeper, dropping her eyes; "He's also, Travis's instructor." Kay's brought her eyes back up to Candy.
"Really. That's interesting." She glanced again toward Travis and the small group of friends.
"Go on Jason, talk to her." Tanya urged. The boy grabbed Jason's hand and pulled him to his feet.
"Come on. I'll introduce you." Jason's eyes found his friends, hoping they would pull him back. No such luck. He knew that not even Trini would stop him from leaving. Tanya and Kat giggled relentlessly as the eleven year old tugged at his instructors arm. The guys were embarrassed for him, but couldn't help but laugh themselves.
"Here comes Travis." Kay turned to the boy, then immediately regretted it; "With Sensei Jason in tow." Suddenly Kay wanted to run. But couldn't move.
"Sensei, this is Kay. She taught me the kick." Jason felt himself flush as he reached his hand out to her. Slowly, Kay reached out as well.
"Kayla Tiann." She all but whispered.
"Jason Scott. Nice to meet you." All she could do was nod. She was all too aware of the black muscle shirt that was covering the bulging muscles of his shoulders. The blue jeans that were snug around his narrow waist, hugged his muscled legs. Though she couldn't get enough of his eyes. The midnight brown that seemed endless.
Candy watched the exchange closely. Suddenly feeling out of place.
"Travis, how about we go and perfect that kick." She suggested maneuvering the boy away. Kay silently wished Candy hadn't done that. Leaving her alone with him. Yet, part of her wanted to jump up and down in thanks.
"So uh ... how long have you been studying karate?" His deep voice reached her ears. Unconsciously, Kay crossed her arms over her chest.
"What makes you believe that I have studied karate?" She asked with a tiny grin. Jason smiled as he looked at his feet.
"It isn't everyday that a stranger can teach an eleven year old a kick that he's been trying to do for two months."
"True. I've been studying for ... seven years now." Jason raised his brows, rather surprised.
"Have you ever thought about teaching?" He wondered. She smiled and dropped her head.
"Actually, I was teaching for a while." Jason frowned. Had he hit a soft spot?
"Why not anymore?"
"We ... moved." Jason nodded thoughtfully.
He was quiet for a moment, then; "Why don't you join us?" Frowning, Kay lifted her head.
"Me?" She questioned.
"Yea. Besides, I owe you a soda for teaching Travis that kick. I've been working with him for two months on it." He gestured to the table where his friends were.
"No, really I couldn't impose." She started to shake her head.
"No imposition. Come on." Giving in, she nodded.
"Let me get my shoes." He nodded then turned to his friends. All five gave him thumbs up. He shook his head with a smile as he turned back to Kay. He caught his breath as he watched her lend down to pick up her bag and shoes.
- This is going to be interesting. - He thought to himself. - Relax Scott. She's new here. You're just being friendly. - Taking a deep breath, he closed his eyes. - Even if she does have a nice ass. - He mentally shook his head and opened his eyes. He saw her walk up to him.
"You sure your friends won't mind?" She asked worried.
"They won't mind at all. Shall we?" Kay flushed as she stepped past him and headed toward the table. Jason followed close behind; "Guys, this is Kayla."
"You can call me Kay." Lord knows everyone else does.
"Nice to meet you Kay." Tommy stuck his hand out, smiling. She accepted it gratefully.
"This is Tommy, Adam."
"Hi."
"Rocky."
"Nice to meet you." He nodded with a smile.
"Tanya." The darker skinned girl flashed a brilliant smile; "And Kat."
"Have a seat." The blonde scooted down a seat to make room for her. Kay's heart suddenly began to thud loudly in her ears as she sat next to the beautiful blonde. Her preferences became very known to her at a young age. And sitting next to Kat, was defiantly not helping. Jason immediately noticed what sitting next to Kat caused in their new friend.
- This is going to be very interesting. -
"Thanks." Kay slid slowly into the seat. She was uncomfortable to say the least. But for some strange reason, she felt she could trust them.
The afternoon flourished into was turning out to be some wonderful friendships.
(End Flashback)
"Kay." She didn't hear Jason at first, being lost in her own thoughts; "Kayla."
"Huh? What?" She turned her head to find Jason's hand on her shoulder.
"You ok?" She shrugged.
"Yea, never better." Jason shook his head as he sat back down.
"What am I going to do with you?" - I could think of a few things. -
"No idea Jason. No idea."