Heartland (AU) The Prodigal Son

by Anjewelraine

(AU) Ty Borden had everything, the only son of a Hollywood Movie Star and Business Tycoon. He played hard and lived fast. But life on the other side isn't always as it seems. Ty hid behind the cars, the girls, the money, not showing his true self until, until he saw her, that beautiful blonde on the black steed, Was this what he had been looking for? Was she his ultimate salvation?

2. The Prodigal Son Chapter 2

Chapter 2.

"So Jack, hows this going this morning,?" Brad Borden asked as he walked beside to the old cowboy towards the round pen. He had come over to Heartland early to talk to Jack, His mind in a troubled state.

"good, good, "Jack replied, the early morning nip in the air playing with his breath. "we've put the mares in the backfield, I can get one of the hands to bring them in if you like, you taking them back to Fairfield?"

"No, No, Jack" Brad smiled, he was more casually dressed this time, in a large heavy canvas coat and dark jeans. "Im going to leave the mares with you if that's ok, just until I have this deal finalized and the Ranch purchase is done, I 'd like it if Amy could continue to work with them, build their trust, I need them rather calm and docile for when they are in foal."

"no worries, Im sure Amy can handle that for you, " Jack said, as they stopped at the pen and looked out over the expanse of pastures and fields behind them.

Jack watched the man next to him, seeing something was on his mind, "Amy can handle this Brad, she showed you yesterday what she's capable of "

Brad smiled and chuckled under his breath, "Oh I know that Jack, she is quite the trainer for a young girl, I have no problems at all in leaving those ladies in her hands, "

"but I sense there's more to your visit today than checking on the mares?"Jack pushed

Brad nodded, seeing there wasn't much that got past this old cowboy. "your right Jack, I actually have a favor to ask of you, if your willing?"

"shoot" Jack smiled,

"As I said, I have a son, and he's flying in today, he should get here this afternoon sometime, "

Jack nodded, encouraging Brad to go on.

"I'll get Thomas to bring him over to meet you all, and .."

Jack stopped him with a raised hand, "So your not planning on being here when he arrives?"

Brad gave him an awkward smile as he exhaled, "No, I'm flying out to Australia this afternoon, to look at some more brood stock, "he said, "and honestly, it's probably best I'm not here when Ty arrives"

He paused, seeing the look that filtered through Jack's eyes and knowing he needed to explain further.

"Let's just say the relationship between me and my son isn't on the best of footing at the moment, "Brad continued, "he's been with his mother for a while now, and well, " he stopped, not knowing really where to start.

"I take it this trip to the coast wasn't just a sabbatical, ?" Jack asked,

Brad shook his head, "no, his mother and I are going through some issues at the moment, and well, Ty, he's been caught in the middle" He turned to look at Jack, his voice quiet and filled with regret, "he's a good kid Jack, he's just lost his way is all, and I don't seem to be able to reach him anymore,"

"well, maybe being here when he arrives today, might be a start?" Jack suggested,

"nah Jack, hes mad at me for letting his mother go, and now Lilly tells me he's getting into trouble with the law and causing issues at home, " he stopped, dropping his gaze to the ground, his elbows resting on the fence rail, his hands clasped together. "bringing him up here is us trying to give him a freash start, new people, new responsibilities, it will be good for him to start over, learn the business, meet people like you, Amy, Lisa, see how a real family works,"

Jack saw the sadness in Brad's eyes. The look of loss over the family he once had.

"I can see that you care for your son Brad, but honestly, I think it would probably mean more to this young man id his father was here to help him start again, I know its hard to bridge that generation gap sometimes, trust me, but I couldn't imagine not being there for Lou and Amy "

Brad nodded, "Its complicated Jack, and hence why Im asking for your help, "

Jack conceded, seeing the change in Brads resolve, Brad the father wasn't talking now, Brad the businessman was.

"I'm asking if you would let him stay here for a while, I'll pay you for the trouble, cover his expenses, Show him the work you do, get him involved, He's my only heir Jack, and one day it will all be his, But he's not really been part of the business until now, and I want to change that"

"I don't know Brad, we have a lot of work on at the moment, especially with the new venture and the calving season nearly on us, I don't think we will have the time to play babysitter to your son." Jack explained, "this is a working ranch Brad, not a holiday farm,"

"Oh, I know Jack, and I expect you to put him to work, use him as a hand or a trainers assistant, whatever you feel is appropriate, I want him to understand this business from the roots up, " Brad felt his phone buzz in his pocket but hit the silent button.

Jack rubbed his face, not sure what to do, "I don't know Brad, you said he's green, a city boy from the coast, I'm not sure this will work out,"

"He lived most of his childhood in Montana Jack, at Lucky Quarters, He's only been in the OC for a year. Please, Jack, I am at a loss as to what to do with him, if this doesn't work, well, ….."

"can he ride?"Jack asked softly, he couldn't believe he was considering this.

"he used to when he was a kid, was quite good at it too, "Brad replied, "Jack, he's a good kid, he just needs a strong hand and some guidance is all, someone like you"

Jack rubbed his face, looking at the man who stood before him. He felt for Brad, but he also wasn't all that impressed by the way he was palming his son off to someone else rather than dealing with it himself. Jack had very high cast morals when it came to parenting and stepping up to the plate.

"that strong hand a guidance should by rights be coming from you" he countered. Seeing Brad look away monetarily.

"yes, your right, but ….. I can't deal with it Jack, I can't deal with him and run a business too. "Brad stopped and looked at his phone recognizing the number, "he is an angry, misguided young boy. Jack, he's hurt and he's acting out, His mother has moved on, and he cant deal with it, I can't deal with it, so It's best I think if I just stay out of it. I can't help him, Jack, I don't know how, but honestly, I think you can"

Jack's eyes watched Brad closely, his stoic look now changing from sympathy to Brad's situation to empathy for this boy he hadn't even met yet. A boy who had been dealt two parents who didn't seem to understand what that role actually meant. Both of them had turned away, giving up on their son when he needed them the most. No wonder this young man was acting out and getting into trouble. They had abandoned him in every aspect of the word. Jack rubbed his mustache,

"you do know how to help him, Brad, you just have to be man enough to do it"Jacks' voice was low now, the story of this family now truly unfolding. "he can stay here, I'll set him up above the barn in the loft, but I want your world, Brad, that as soon as your business is done in Australia, you'll get back here and see your son, and set this right,"

Brad smiled the biggest smile of relief. "you, my friend are a life saver, thank you, "he shook Jacks hand vigorously, "I can't thank you enough,"

"Ok, Ok, But Im holding you to it Brad, you face that boy and make it right, he's your son after all" Jack warned.

Brad nodded, "I'll let his mother know, and thank you again, he really is a good kid Jack, he's just lost his way a bit is all"

Jack nodded and accepted another handshake, not sure he had done the right thing, taking on a rich kid with anger and discipline issues was going to be a challenge, he hadn't even spoken to the rest of the family about it. What if this Ty Borden was a problem child, what if it was more than simply losing his way. Jack sighed and rubbed his face, hoping against hope he hadn't just agreed to a pending disaster.

"I've got some errands to run, I'll get Lou to set up the loft apartment, do you know what time he's due in" Jack asked,

"around 5 I think, Thomas will bring him over, I'll cover everything Jack, all his expenses, Ill make sure they send him a car to drive in a few days, and I'll include a healthy bonus for you and your time. "

Jack raised his hand, "that's not necessary Brad, I'll look after him while he's here, But he's going to have to pull his weight, this is like I said a working Ranch, and I don't have time for freeloaders"

Brad nodded and looked at his phone again as it buzzed. "hold that thought, Jack, give me a minute ok"

He stepped away from the old cowboy slightly and pressed the phone to his ear.

"Brad Borden"

"Dad, …."

"Ty, why are you calling ?"

"Mom said I'm meeting you in Canada? Alberta? Something about another ranch, is that right?"

"yes, your flying in today, Thomas will meet you"

Jack noticed the business like tone in Brad's voice when he spoke to his son. There was no emotion or support there at all.

"um ok, so Thomas will bring me to this Ranch then? to you?" Ty's voice was filled with uncertainty, he hadn't spoken to his father in months, every time he had tried to call him, the phone went to his voicemail and he never returned any of Ty's messages. This was the first time since Lilly and Ty had left for the OC that Brad had accepted one of his calls.

"you will be staying with friends until the ranch is fully operational, "Brad said clearly.

"friends,? I've never been to Alberta before dad, I don't know anyone there!" Ty rebutted, he walked around his room, not knowing what to expect now when he got off the plane.

"you will be fine, they are nice people and you will learn a lot from them, it will be good for you" Brad continued,

"everyone keeps saying that!, "Ty growled, shutting his eyes and trying to calm himself, "why can't I just come home?"

"Tyler!, this is not up for discussion ok, I want you on that plane as discussed and that's the end of it. Do you understand!" Brad's voice was forceful now, His words clear and direct like he was holding a hostile takeover,

Jack watched on in silent concern, seeing this kind of coldness and distance between a father and a son in need of guidance was painful and just plain hard to watch.

"Dad!, please, I just want to go home to Lucky, Mom said I …." he stopped, pressing his fingers into the corners on his green eyes and shutting them, trying to take the tremble out of his voice, "just let me come home, please "

"don't miss your plane," Brad said cooly, "Thomas will be there as I said" and with that Brad hung up the line as Ty called his name one more time.

Ty heard the line drop, the air of finality falling around him, he took a shaky breath and threw his phone angrily across the room, watching it bounce off the wall and chip the mortar as it fell to the floor. He looked at his watch and covered his face with his hands, taking a few deep breaths, trying desperately to regroup and calm himself. He turned and grabbed his keys, then retrieved his phone from where it landed, luckily it was only chipped and not damaged from its impact with the wall. He thundered downstairs aiming for the front door, stopping when he heard Lilly's voice behind him, "don't be gone too long ok, the car will be here for you at 11 so….."

He froze at the door, his chest heaving, he shut his eyes and counted to five before he turned, the hurt showing on his face. "I won't be long, "he said softly, as he continued out the door. Lilly feeling his upset as he disappeared across the front porch.

"where is he off too?" Wade asked, snaking his arms around Lilly's waist, pulling her to him. His face one of triumph,

"probably saying goodbye to his friends" Lilly replied, the guilt in her stomach consuming her as she felt Wade pull her towards the stairway and her bedroom.

---

Dustin lived on the far side of the Balboa Estates, his house wasn't quite a luxurious as Ty's but still held that McMansion feel, He was sitting on the decking next to his rather understated poolside for an OC mansion when Ty came through the door, smiling politely at Dustin's mother who showed him the way.

"Hey Dude, " Dustin laughed, getting up and smiling at his friend who pulled up the banana lounge next to him. "thought you were shipping out this morning. Heading for the snowy fields and the maple leaves, "

"got a few hours until that happens, so thought I'd come and see how the other half lives" Ty grinned, Masking his pain well, he had become a pro at pretending and creating personas. Obviously, his mother's acting skills had been inherited and were going to waste,

"TY, "A familiar voice called to him, making him turn his eyes towards the poolside, where Bella looked up at him from the spar's edge,

"Bella, "Ty said softly, his eyes looking back to Dustin who grinned, "she like your personal shadow now or what?" Ty whispered as he lent over towards his best friend who had sat back down next to him.

"what can I say I have the gift" Dustin grinned," so Canada, wow man, that's huge!"

Ty nodded "yeah, huge is an understatement, seems I've been summoned by Brad Borden himself,"

"But why Canada?" Dusty asked, seeing Bella climb out of the pool and wrap herself in a big fluffy towel.

"he's opening another stable up there, expanding the empire, "Ty explained, expressing the volume of the idea with his outstretched hands, "seems I have to learn my role in it all"

"so can we come visit?" Bella asked as she took a seat on the end of Dustin's lounge chair, "I've always wanted to see the Rockies,"

"why not" Ty smiled, "the more the merrier hey, we can go moose hunting!"

"eww!" Bella turned up her little pixie nose and shook her head in disgust, "Maybe we can just go snowboarding or … what else do they do up there?"

"well, "Dustin smiled, "according to Google, you're going to the heart of western culture, where there are cattle and horses and ranch folk, "he held up his smartphone showing the pictures he just looked up,

"oh wow Ty, your going to look so hot as a cowboy," Bella laughed, "ye harh"

Ty narrowed his eyes at her and gave her a very decisive scowl "I ain't no cowboy, "

"but you're from Montana!, that's cowboy county too" Dusty laughed, then ducked when Ty took a swing at him.

"I have no problems living in the country, But I definitely am not a cowboy !" Ty clarified, as he got up and went over to the tray on the table to get a drink.

"Dustin, I'm heading out for a bit, so you kids behave ok"

Dustin turned and waved at his mother as she smiled at him from the patio door, He lifted his hand in recognition and then turned his attention back to his guests,

"well, I got to go and pick up Jo Jo,, there's booze in the bar fridge so help yourself, I'll leave you two for a minute ok, I'll be back in a sec "Dustin said with a cheeky grin, "Um Ty, there's towels and togs in the guest room if you wanna swim"

Ty waved over his shoulder as he took a mouthful of lemon squash, heading over to the grill and the bar fridge, and returning with two bottles of Vodka. He took another mouthful then added a splash of fire water for the second.

"'Ill have one of those," Bella said, holding out her hand to him as he grinned and gave her his glass and poured another, Ty was on a destructive path since his short and cold talk with his father. He was looking for an escape, and that clear liquid was as good a place as any to start from.

"so your really leaving us in no more than 4 hours time ?" She said, taking her seat again on the banana lounge and sipping her drink.

"looks that way" Ty replied, emptying his glass into his mouth and chewing on the ice.

"I'll miss you TY, "he voice was low now, more inviting, "will you miss me?"

Ty smiled to himself as he poured himself yet another drink, this time adding a little more kick than the glass before,

"definitely " he replied "whats there not to miss" he turned around and leaned against the table, his drink in his hand. His green eyes played with hers as his natural charisma kicked in, the vodka blurring the edges of his mood and making the world seem less tragic, less final.

They stayed there for a few minutes, both focused on each other but keeping their distance, Ty finally swallowing the last of his third tumbler in so many minutes and shaking his head with a smile, his buzz well and truly on.

"well, I'm going to get changed, "he said, walking around her and chuckling to himself as he only just sidestepped the banana lounge, his feet misjudging the distance. Bella watched as Ty walked into the house and headed towards the guest room, pulling his shirt off as he went, he opened the door and dropped it on the bed as he walked over the chest of drawers in the corner, knowing this was where Dustin's mom kept the swimming gear, he grabbed a pair of board shorts and started to undo his simple silver clip buckle when he heard a giggle behind him.

Ty turned, his eyes falling on a bikini-clad Bella as she pushed the guest room door shut, her eyes on him and filled with mischief.

"whats that look for," he asked, continuing to undo his jeans, not really caring if she saw him change, the alcohol in his system taking away any form of moral inhibition he normally had.

"I want to say goodbye to you, "she cooed, walking slowly over to him, her eyes filled with desire,

Ty let Bella slide her arms around his neck, his hands now on her waist as he looked down at her, his eyes delving deeply into hers "how about, rather than goodbye, we say …."

Before he could finish his sentence she reached up and pressed her lips to his, he could taste the lemon and the vodka in her mouth as their tongues danced. His mind lost to the sensation. Ty didn't care anymore, he was numb, he had been rejected so many times in the last few months by those who supposedly mattered to him that he craved any kind of connection or affection. Bella wanted him, maybe for the wrong reasons and possibly them all being selfish ones at that, but at least she wanted him, and at that moment, in that drunken state, that was good enough for him.

Tys hands slid around her shoulders, walking her slowly to the large feather bed, his fingers finding her bikini ties and pulling them free, he heard her giggle as she pulled herself up onto the bed in front of him, her legs wrapping around his midriff as he took her weight, and continue to kiss her as her hands ran through his hair and over his shoulders.

"you're amazing!" she breathed as she felt him lower her down onto the bed, Bella was ecstatic, she had chased him and pursed him for weeks now, and finally, after, failed attempts and refusal after refusal, he had finally taken her up on her offer. Her hands now pulling at his jeans and boxers as he dragged her slowly up the bed underneath him. Ty's mind was a blur, of lust and want and desire, he had lost focus on the reality of it all, not allowing himself to think about the fact that he was about to have sex with someone he really didn't hold any emotional tie or feelings for at all. She was simply there, she was willing and he needed something to make him feel whole again.

So in that moment, he forgot about his need for an emotional connection, he laid aside his general rule of not having sex with a girl unless he truly felt something for her, and simply let the need to be loved, be it onesided and impromptu, win.

---

"ok, Um thanks for this, "Jack said, seeing Amy, Lou and Lisa all looking at him with questioning looks as they stood in the lounge room, He had called an impromptu family meeting and didn't really know where to start.

"whats going on Jack?" Lisa asked, seeing his indecision,

"well, I had a chat to Brad this morning, and I just need to let you all know what's happening "Jack said, seeing Lisa nod and Amy and Lou swap questioning glances at each other, "well, as I said yesterday, His son will be flying up to work the Lucky ranch once its up and running, however, "

Amy looked at her grandfather her nose crinkling slightly,

"before that happens, Brad has asked me, and I have agreed that this young man will be coming to stay with us for a while to learn the business and find his way so to speak" Jack saw Amy's mouth open in protest, as did Lisa's in confusion.

"now before you all throw a million questions at me, let me explain, This young man, Ty, will be staying in the loft apartment, All his expenses will be covered by Brad as will he have his own transport and spending money. This is only temporary until he finds his feet and gets to know what's being asked of him in regards to the Ranch and its management."

"are you serious Grandpa!" Amy asked, "you know who he is right? I cant just give this playboy all of my time and babysit him !, you said I should show him around and give him a few pointers, not be his minder"

"no no, he's here to work like any other hired staff, he can start as a hand and well, let's see where we go from there, supposedly he spent his younger years on a ranch, so he can't be completely useless. " Jack rubbed his face, looking at Lisa for help,

"I suppose, we could always use the help and if he's going to be running the Lucky Stud eventually, then we need to keep a good relationship with him. I've sunk a lot of money into this quarter horse venture so If it's going to help that, then I'm all in" Lisa smiled at her husband and nodded her support.

"well, if he's all covered financially and we don't have to pay him, I suppose it won't hurt, "Lou agreed, "it will be like an extra pair of hands for free"

Jack took a sigh of relief until he saw Amys face glaring at him,

"this is going to be a disaster Grandpa!" she fumed,

"what's a disaster?"

Tim walked into the room, looking around the group, curious as to what had them so riled up,

Jack rubbed his face and explained to Lou and Amy's father his decision, waiting for the guaranteed tirade that was to come.

Tim swallowed and looked at Jack, then at his daughters, "I agree with Jack, it's a good way to keep this deal on track, and if they are paying for him, I say, whats the harm in it, "he looked at Amy who now glared at him too, "you can show him some of the horsey things, teach him the barn, how to do basic training can't you, make him feel like he's learning something hey"

Amy stormed off to her room, mumbling under her breath as they all heard her rummaging around looking through drawers and cupboards, she came thundering back out to them all and slammed a magazine down on the table, pointing to the cover image with her finger,

"that's the problem" she said with exasperation,

They all looked at the magazine as Jack slowly picked it up, pulling his reading glasses from his shirt pocket to get a better look, There was a picture of a young man, with two girls draped around his body, holding his hand up to the camera as he shielded his face from the press.

"that, right there is the infamous Ty Borden!" Amy said, her expression one of worried justification as she saw Jack lift his eyebrow, then flick the magazine open to the page where Ty was being escorted into the police station.

"Oh Dear, "Lou mouthed, now standing next to Jack and reading the article, "he stole someone's car, and then crashed it!"

Tim rubbed his chin, looking a little concerned now too,

"look, this is just a magazine, "Jack said trying to not let the concern he felt inside get the better of him, "Brad said he was in need of a little guidance, and maybe a new start, supposedly he's been living with his mother for a while and well, things have gone a little haywire, but I'm standing by my word, I said I'd give him a go, and that's what Im going to do, "

"but grandpa! look at that, he's a party boy, what good will he do here!" Amy pushed, "apart from cause problems, and what if the papers know he's here, we will be inundated with cameras and reporters all wanting stories on why Lilly Bordens son is staying with us"

Lous eyes lit up, "reporters, we could swing this to our advantage, Grandpa, think of the free publicity"

"NO, we will not be exploiting this young man any more than he already has been, do I make myself clear, "Jack said clearly, his tone final "from what Brad tells me, this kids been through the ringer, and this kind of rubbish has dogged him since he was a baby because of his mothers fame" Jack threw the magazine down "I'm sorry Amy, but I don't hold much stock in tabloids and I've seen how a photo taken out of context can destroy a life. " Jack took a breath and saw Amy drop her eyes, understanding this was not up for negotiation. "I made a promise and I intend to honor it, Ty will stay in the loft until his father returns from Australia, then we can take it from there, "

"Australia!" Lisa said,

"yeah he flys out this afternoon, his partner will be dropping Ty here later today" Jack continued,

"He's not even going to be here to meet him? to introduce him to us? "Tim asked, "that's kinda harsh isn't it"

Jack rubbed his face, not liking the constant questions and rebuttals.

"look, its fine lets just all be nice and make the best of this bad situation hey, we will welcome this "Ty" and just see how it goes ok," Lou said, smoothing the edges and trying to be positive.

"Thanks, Lou, Once Thomas calls me, I'll let you know when they are on their way in" Jack replied, walking away from the lounge and heading out the front door. His mind now seriously recounting his decision to take this young man on. Those images on a constant loop in his tired worried mind.

---

Ty flew out of LAX at 12 pm, On an Air Canada Flight. Lilly called ahead to the media, saying he was leaving from terminal 2, sending the press who stalked the airport for such photo opportunities to the wrong terminal. Leaving Ty, to board unnoticed, his head down, covered with a baseball cap and aviators sunnies and assisted by two air Canada staff who made sure he cleared the gates and check in quickly.

He made himself comfortable in his first class seat, shutting his eyes, the vodka from his morning binge making him feel a little nauseous as the hangover effects kicked in,

"Welcome Mr. Borden, Is there anything I can get for you before we take off,?"

Ty looked up groggily at a very smiley flight attendant who beamed back at him. She couldn't be more than 20 years old and she seemed extreamly chuffed to be serving someone famous on her shift.

"Um, a bottle of water would be great," He said, returning the smiled, his hand pushing the hair out of his eyes.

"of course sir, I'll get that for you now," she beamed as she quickly disappeared down the aisle,

Ty chuckled to himself and pulled his baseball cap further down on his head, shutting his eyes yet again.

The flight was only 3 hours in the air, so Ty slept away most of the time, this not only helped him with his hangover but also kept people from interacting with him, as even people who recognized famous people were reluctant to wake someone catching a few hours rest.

They touched down in YYC Calgary and Ty flicked his phone off of airplane mode as he left the plane. Suddenly his phone went ballistic with notification after notification, making him stop suddenly and pull to the side of the gateway tunnel, allowing the rest of the passengers on his flight to pass him.

He flipped through the notifications and messages, bemused by all the activity, fan sites, and news sites were all abuzz, Then he stopped at Dustin's text, his eyes following the request to hit the link,

Ty's thumb pressed the screen and he was confronted by an Instagram post that made his breath catch in his throat, There was a picture of him, naked from the waist up, wrapped in a bedsheet, only barely covering his midsection with the caption {jealous bitches?} Ty looked horrified as he stared at the image, knowing those sheets and that bed, but not recalling the images being taken. The owner of the post was titled OC Hottie, and he cringed, knowing exactly who that hottie was. He then saw another notification pop up from Dustin's Facebook page, Ty rubbed his face, letting his shoulder lean against the wall of the walkway, the wind taken out of his sales. This image was a selfie, posted and tagged by none other than Bella herself, Again it was of Ty sleeping, next to naked on the guest bed at Dustin's house, with Bella photobombing the image, winking at the camera. He flicked to the next photo and the next, seeing different captures of those morning activities, One with him and her smiling and holding up glasses at the camera, their arms around each other in the spa, which he recalled taking as a farewell gesture. One with Jo Jo and Bella kissing his cheeks, again, agreed upon. Then a litany of bedroom shots with Bella in different poses while he slept obliviously behind her in each shot. Some showed his face, some showed his bare chest, others his back with a sheet just covering his behind. Each image held a caption stating his hotness or how jealous the rest of the female world was for not being Bella at that moment.

Ty typed feverishly on his phone screen, waiting for a reply, his baseball cap low on his head as he watched as the social media pages we mad. Share after share, tag after tag, His image flooding the teen sites and the watch channels. Ty's cheeks flushed with embarrassment, just knowing how this was going to affect his mother. His Father, his attention on the press's radar. He heard his phone beep and he quickly put it to his ear,

"what the hell man!" he gasped, his eyes wide with disbelief,

"'I'm sorry, dude, I told her not too, but after you left, we had a few more drinks and she, well, I'm so sorry dude, I'll tell her to take them down, "Dustin sounded distraught for his friend, Apologizing again and again.

"it's a bit late now Dus!, there out there! there god damn everywhere!" Ty rubbed his face, pushing air through his fingers,

"Um Ty, were are you now brother,?" Dustin asked, his voice a little low, Ty could just make out girls giggling in the background.

"Im at YYC, just got off the plane why?" Ty asked,

"check out Jo Jos insta, I'm so sorry dude, really, I'll fix this," Dustin hung up the line as Ty slowly pulled the phone from his ear and scrolled to Jo Jos page, the blood drained from his face as he swore under his breath, there was one last picture of Bella and Jo Jo , both cuddled up to him in the spa, both girls smiling for the camera, along with Ty, again an approved image, one he said they could take as a reminder of his time at New Port, the image it self-was rather tame, in retrospect to the others Bella had uploaded, the text, however, was what had Ty's face turning paler by the second.

{this gorgeous guy leaves us today, flying out on Canada Air to be a cowboy, Miss him already, I hope all those cowgirls know what they are getting out there in Calgary, Bye Bye Ty, safe flight XX will miss that bod}

"Mr. Borden, are you ok," a steward asked as he came up behind the young man, seeing he had stalled in the gateway tunnel.

"Um, yeah, can I ask a favor, ?" Ty's eyes looked down the tunnel to the exit gate, "can you go on ahead and tell me if there are any paps out there! it seems my travel plans have been broadcasted,"

The steward looked at him with instant understanding, nodding happily, "that's fine, Mr. Borden, you just stay here and I'll go see"

Ty stood back as two other flight attendants came up beside him. Seeing the steward go up the walkway and through the frosted glass doors. As soon as they opened, the flashes went off, making Ty swear and step back around the bend, keeping out of sight.

The steward came back a few minutes later, smiling awkwardly at the young man, "I'm sorry Mr. Borden, Its a bit of a circus out there, as there are only three flights from Laxx to Calgary today, I'd say they have been there most of the day, do you want us to call security for you,"

Ty took a breath and straightened his hat, he looked at the three beautiful ladies who surrounded him. Their eyes watching and waiting for him to make a decision. The younger, a brunette with big brown eyes, the same one who served him his water at the beginning of the flight, tapped his shoulder, getting Ty to turn and look in her direction.

"Mr. Bordern, Ty, "she said soflty, "look, Ive seen the images, they are everywhere now, so I'd say that the cat is well and truly out of the bag, you have two choices really here, we can call security and you can have more images of you being bustled through the airport, by security, causing an even bigger stir, or" she stopped her smile warming slightly "you can play this bad situation to your advantage, walk out that door, smile, let them do their thing and act as normal as possible, If you play their game, maybe they will be nicer to you"

Ty considered the idea, the press had always hounded him, catching him off guard and taking shots that were always misrepresented and painted him in a bad light. But If he played it nice, let them snap away, maybe this time, the photos would paint a different picture and the inevitable scuffle and damaging headlines would maybe not be as harsh.

He smiled at the young flight attendant, letting his eyes glance over her name tag, and lent in gently and kissed her cheek, "thanks, I think your right, Bobbie, lets try a different play" His eyes glinted at her as she let out a soft giggle, the other ladies looking at her in shocked disbelief.

Ty straightened his shirt, squared his shoulders and adjusted his jacket, taking a few quick cleansing short breathes as he headed for the door, He stopped just before the glass doors sensor picked him up, he jumped up and down a few times on the spot, psyching himself up and then walked casually through the door, looking as calm as ever. The lights and flashes went mad around him as the doors closed.

Ty shielded his eyes as a sea of cameras trained in on him. All flashing and clicking, taking him as shutter bait. He squinted in the harsh light, as he spoke briefly to the gate guard, the noise of the crowd and the shutters over whelming his voice.

"Ty!, Ty!, here come on man ! " one of the paparazzi called to him over the hullabaloo. Ty turned, desperately trying to keep his face calm and relaxed as he let his eyes find the voice he had picked up on,

He gave him a nod as stood still, giving one of his best Borden smiles. The paparazzi went wild, seeing he wasn't doing his usual routine, of angry glares and avoidances but was actually allowing them to shoot him, Ty turned and played it to his advantage, offering his hand to the gate guard and shaking it in thanks, as he tugged on the brim of his hat and stepped away from the area. Two airport guards came to his sides and Ty smiled and asked them to give him some room as he walked between them. His smile still on his face with the cameras following along in his wake. It was working, no confrontations, no angry exchanges, they simply clicked and let he make his way to the baggage claim. Respecting his space but getting the shots and images they knew the public craved.

"good flight?" one called, trying to engage,

Ty continued to walk but turned briefly towards the question, "um yeah, slept through most of it" he said with a chuckle, seeing the man drop his camera for a second, surprised that he actually responded.

The bad boy, who had the temper, who smashed the cameras, who yelled profanities was nowhere to be seen at YYC, this Ty was controlled and pleasant, courteous and friendly and in turn, found his shutterbug followers gave him the same respect and understanding in return. He waited at the carousel for his bags as the other passengers smiled and gave him some space as the light bulbs continued to flash around him.

"so why are you in Canada Ty? " someone called out, this lady with a news camera rolling behind her, Ty turned and whispered into the security guards ear, causing him to walk over to the lady and allow her and her crew to come closer,

"hi, "he said, shaking her hand and seeing the news symbol on the camera.

"thank you, can I ask you a few questions on tape, would that be ok?" she asked, her hair and face made up for TV,

Ty nodded, really getting into this now, this was so much more fun than dodging them, The reporter looked at him in shocked happiness, Ty Borden was not known to give interviews, hell he wasn't known to be polite, so this reporter was onto a scoop and she knew it, She gave the cameraman a roll it signal and quickly morphed into her news reporter persona. "hello Calgary , this is Trisha Swanson for CBC Entertainment news. I'm here at YYC with Ty Borden, son of Lilly Borden, who just flew in from California on Canada Air, Welcome to Calgary Ty, is this your first visit to our lovely city,?"

TY took a quick breath and smiled at Trisha, showing his dimples, the paparazzi slowing their feverish fingers as he raised his hand to them to give him a moment.

"Um, yeah, the first time in Canada all together Trisha," he replied,

"oh wow, really, so what do you think, do you like what you've seen so far,?"

Ty chuckled and looked around at the people watching him. "I saw the mountains out of the plane window, they looked awesome, but apart from that, I haven't really seen much yet, "he paused and looked around again, his eyes falling on Thomas who smiled approvingly at him from the back of the crowd, "but you got a really nice airport, and the people are friendly"

The crowd laughed and the camera flashed again as one of the security guards claimed his duffle bag from the carousel and placed it near Ty's feet,

"thanks, man, "Ty said as the large man nodded, taking a step back to keep the crowds at bay.

"so your reason for visiting? And is Lilly going to join you?" Trisha pushed, smiling back at the camera and then back at Ty, holding her microphone to him,

"oh, No my mom isn't joining me this time, but maybe one day, and I'm here in Calgary to help my father launch his new venture, Lucky Quarters Alberta. "

Trisha nodded, encouraging him to go on.

"We are starting a new Quarter horse breeding programme up here in conjunction with some local breeders, its still in the setup stages but I'm here to help and well, see some of the sights while I'm here,"

He gave her another smile and turned a little as his eyes saw two teenage girls waving at him from the outskirts of the camera circle, he gave them a quick wink and then a wave, getting a buzz out of the excitement that simple gesture gave them.

"so your father, Brad Borden is in town too, ?" Trisha asked, letting her cameraman follow the interaction Ty had with the girls and then pan back to her.

"Um, yeah, I think so, I'm meeting up with him a little later, he's really excited to open this Ranch up here, it will work in conjunction with the one in Montana, where I'm from. "

Tys eyes flicked once again to Thomas who stood with his arms now folded casually across his chest, his pride in his partner's son showing in his smile.

"so your not from California"

"no, not originally, I was raised in Montana, moved to California a year ago with my mom and now I'm up here in Alberta, "He explained, Ty honestly. Ty heard a few called out comments about photos and girls in California, but no one seemed to pick up on it or ask the question to him directly, so for now, he thought happily to himself, he had dodged the fall out that Bella and Jo Jo had caused for him.

"well, we are so happy you've come to visit, thank you for taking to CBC and welcome to Alberta," Trish signed off and shook his hand, "thank you, that was really nice of you to give an impromptu interview like that,"

"no problems, but my ride is here, so I got to go, "Ty smiled and squeezed her hand, "it was nice to meet you"

He picked up his duffle bag and hung it over his shoulder, raising his hands at the cameras again as they flashed and then headed for Thomas, who stepped forward and gave him a hug, "wow, kid, well done, you did good, " he said into Ty's ear, patting him on the back,

Ty grinned and looked at Thomas, keeping his voice low, "can we go now please, my face is about to crack from all this smiling "

Thomas grinned back, and took his bag, turning the young mand towards the exit,

"Ty, wait up!. do you have a comment about the photos that are circulating on Instagram!" This time, the voice was loud and clear, pulling all attention its way.

Ty froze for a second, the question making the other paparazzi look at Ty and get ready for his reaction. Thomas looked at Ty as well, concern on his face,

Ty swallowed and turned around, the little fat man who asked the question, was posed behind his camera, ready to hit the shutter.

"I don't know what you're talking about, " Ty said calmly,

"Oh come on kid, Bella Truscott, has your naked snaps all over her feed, this romp in the sheets, was it one or both girls!" he smiled, his voice loud and clear, making sure all the other news people heard him. "we've all seen them, what's your mom say about this scandal hey, those girls legal"

Ty laughed a nervous laugh, leaning in closer to the particular vile middle-aged man, "I said I have no idea what you're talking about, so let it go ok"

Tys eyes were flaring now, the green in them radiating his annoyance. He smiled again, as Thomas tapped his shoulder, "let's go, "

"so is Bella Truscott the new leading lady in the Ty Borden show or is she a passing fancy" The fat man pushed again as Ty turned to walk away. "those pictures are pretty risqué kid, I can send you the link if you like, this a permanent thing?"

He grinned coldly at Ty as the young man turned back, Thomas looking concerned, he knew Ty's reputation for losing his temper, and he really didn't want a scene overshadowing the free publicity from the interview on CBC.

"so, " Snap Snap "is she your girl?" Snap, Snap, "yes" Snap, Snap

Ty's smile faded, Thomas felt his shoulders tighten as Ty rounded on the man again, Thomas now looked worried, He flicked a help me look at the guards who started to move in.

"I said let ….it…..go!" Ty said cooly, " so will you just fuck off and leave me the hell alone!" his tone was low and directed straight at the man in question.

He blinked as the cameras started to flash again, and noticed a lot of the press members now on their smartphones, searching their screens, looking at each other as what the hunted images came into view.

Ty felt the panic and anger rise inside of him, his eyes locked to Trisha as she also now looked at her phone, her eyes now eager for a hotter story than the one he gave her previously., "Ty, Ty, can I have a comment, are these real naked photos of you? Do you know this girl? Ty? Care to comment? is this a budding new romance, what does Lilly think?"

Ty rubbed his face and turned back to Thomas who saw the plea for help, "come on, that's it, we are gone" the guards came in and Ty lowered his head, hiding himself from the throng of flashes and reporters that followed him out of the door, Thomas had called for the car before they moved and it was a seamless transition from the airports main drag into the waiting safety of the vehicle. Ty quickly jumped in, with Thomas shutting the door behind him as the driver pushed Ty's bags into the trunk. The press swarmed the car, flashing and calling for him as Ty pulled his hat down, anger and a touch of fear in his eyes. He had tried to do the right thing, he had been friendly, he had engaged, and still, they crucified him. He cursed under his breath, mad at himself for trying, mad at himself for getting mad, furious with Bella and Jo Jo for posting those damn pictures,!.

The car pulled away and ran free from the attention, Thomas looking over at his charge, touching his knee,

"you did good Kid, "he said softly,

Ty didn't answer, he didn't want platitudes, he didn't want praise, He wanted something, anything to go right for once in his life.

He looked out the tinted window as the city of Calgary unfolded before him, His hand across his eyes as he rested his elbow on the door jam. The streets flashed by, the people of Calgary rushing to their cars and homes as the day closed, Tys eyes watched the world go by, the lost feeling inside him returning once again.

---

Amy walked into Maggies and smiled at Soraya as she took a seat at the counter. Maggies was an icon in the small town of Hudson. It was the only place you could go to, to fill your feed order for your stock and also get the best cup of coffee at the same time. It held your typical diner experience, with booths and counter service, good old country hospitality, and menus, with the added modern feel of a large screen Tv and espresso machine. The diner had become a favorite meeting spot for the townsfolk, and Amy in particular, as Maggie, was Sorayas mom and Soraya was Amys best friend.

"Hey, you didn't say you were coming by today," Soraya said, leaning over the counter and smiling at her best friend. Her dark curled hair and matching eyes showing off her Spanish heritage.

"I'm here to pick up a pie for dessert, Lou's just parking the truck," Amy said, looking a little dejected,

"what type?"

"oh the usual, Saskatoon will be fine," Amy said, "and add a milkshake to that ok, strawberry"

Soraya went over to the pie rack and started to box up Amy's order, curious as for the why her friend looked so despondent.

"Hey Amy, " Ashley said, taking a seat next to Amy at the counter, her blonde hair neatly tied in a french braid down the back of her head, "you look bummed, whats wrong with you? your horse die or something ?"

Amy gave her a cold glare, not impressed by the comment.

"Kidding !" Ashley retorted.

"Im fine, we've just got this house guest coming to stay for a while, and well I'm on babysitting duty," She slumped onto the counter and smiled weakly when Soraya put her milkshake in front of her.

"ooh, house guest, "Ashley said, showing no real interest in Amy's complaints, her eyes on her phone as she surfed the net.

Soraya passed a freshly boxed pie to Amy and then tapped her on the hand, "so this house guest? anyone, I know?"

Amy took a breath "well, " and was just about to spill the news of who was coming to stay with them when Ashley let out a gasp of surprise, her hand flapping in excitement as her blue eyes scanned her phone,

"oh my god! oh my god!" she squealed,

Amy and Soraya looked at her in confusion as Lou came through the diner door, she smiled at Soraya and took a seat on the other side of her sister and also looked a little perplexed at Ashely as she hyperventilated on the stool next to them.

"what !" Amy finally said, giving up on trying to figure out what had Ashley in such a flutter.

"Look at this!" Ashley said, her eyes filled with excitement, she held up her phone to the three girls who all peered at the pictures that Ashley flashed through.

Amys' eyes widened as she saw the images that were flooding social media, she snatched the phone from Ashley's hands and flicked through them, not believing what she was seeing.

She looked up at Lou and raised her eyebrows in alarm,

Lou looked at the photos, "is that who I think that is?" she asked, Amy, nodding in agreeance"yes, that's our new house guest, do you understand now why I think this is a bad Idea,"

Ashely thumped the counter, getting Lou and Amy's attention, making them jump at the sound. "did I just hear you right, that excellent specimen of the male persuasion is your house guest, are you serious!"

"as of 5 pm tonight, yes, he is" Lou smiled, now also looking a tad concerned as to what they had got themselves into.

Soraya mouth dropped open, "oh my god really! he's in Hudson. Honest to god!"

"I know hey, I saw it on CBC, he's in town to help his dad or something, can you believe he's here, a real live celebrity in boring old Hudson. My mom supposedly knows his dad, so maybe Ill get an introduction. Or maybe I can convince him to come and stay at Briar Ridge rather than Heartland"

"We need to go, Amy, it's getting late and I have a dinner to get ready," Lou said, "I'm just going to the drug store and I'll meet you back at the truck ok"

Amy nodded at her sister and watched her leave, then looked back at the two girls, "I can't believe Grandpa agreed to this, supposedly I've got to show him how a real ranch works, " Amy sipped her milkshake her eyes flickering up to the TV above the counter, "hey turn that up will you, "

Soraya hit the remote and the girls looked on as Ty Borden's interview with CBC rolled across the screen. Amy watched with interest, listening to him speak, watching him interact and smile with the reporter, She had to admit, there was something about him when he wasn't draped in girls and half naked. He had this charisma, this vibe that made you just want to get to know him better.

"he is kinda cute "She finally agreed, " I like his eyes,"

"I like that ass, "Ashely grinned, taking her phone back from Amy and saving the picture of Tys naked back shot to her gallery.

Amy rolled her eyes and looked back at the screen, her eyes back on the dark-haired young man who chatted to the news reporter.

" he handles the press well," Soraya said, watching the interview close and then seeing the newsreader back in the studio.

They all watched on as Trisha sat at the anchor desk talking to her colleagues about her meeting at the airport,

{he seems like a nice young man Trisha, thanks for the exclusive,}

{It started out well, but I have to admit, that young man isn't all peaches and cream}

{what do you mean, he's copped some bad press, but from what we just saw, he's been missrepresented}

{well check out this footage that we took after I closed the interview, it was just after the nude picture scandal hit the airwaves, that boy has a temper!}

The news station ran some more footage and the girls looked on as they watched Ty growl at the photographer, the expression on his face speaking volumes, before he was hustled away by security. The footage then rolled into the naked images again, the tv blurring out parts that weren't for the 5 o'clock news.

"oh wow, "Soraya said, looking sad,

"Yeah, he's a real gem, "Amy said sarcastically, "can't wait to meet him, let's hope he's actually got clothes on hey"

"Amy, come on, it was obvious those people were antagonizing him, I don't know about you, but I think he did well not to lose it completely at them " Soraya said, looking at her friend, trying to get her to see another point of view, Soraya always saw the best in everyone, which was one of her more endearing qualities. "'I can't imagine how it must feel for him to have his personal life on display like that, it can't be easy being scrutinized by the world for everything you do"

"Well, I suppose I'll find out soon enough hey, "Amy smiled, picking up the pie and giving over some money, "I'll see you girls later ok"

"can we come to dinner too?" Ashely teased,

"no, this time its invite only, "Amy replied with a grin as she walked to the door of the diner. Maggie's alive with partons for a late afternoon. "but if you girls wanna autograph maybe I can get him to sign his napkin or something "

She gave another sarcastic smile and left her two friends busily scrutinizing those photos,

---

The black Cadillac pulled up at Heartland just a little after 5, and Jack walked over from the front porch to greet Thomas as he stepped out of the vehicle.

Ty followed his companion and stood just behind him as They two men talked. His eyes scanning the layout of the ranch as he stretched his arms and shoulders. He had to admit, he was suitably impressed by its size and layout.

"Jack, this is Ty, Brad's son, "Thomas said, turning to look at Ty and then motioned towards Jack.

Ty gave Jack a soft smile and nodded a hello, unsure of whether he should offer a hand or apologize for the inconvenience of having to deal with him.

Jack beat him to the punch and outstretched his hand, smiling at the younger in welcome. Ty hesitated then accepted the invite, shaking his hand and smiling again, "um thanks, this is your place?"

Jack nodded, "yes all 600 Acres of it,.been in the family for 6 generations. "

Ty nodded and looked at Thomas, he felt out of place, these people were strangers to him, and he didn't really know why his father had requested he even be there.

"let's go inside hey, you can meet the family, Lou's made a roast for dinner so I hope you are both hungry "

The three men walked inside, where Lou, Lisa, and Amy were all preparing dinner.

"ladies, "Jack said as they came through the door, Jack removing his hat, with Ty following suit out of respect and taking off his cap. He stood next to Thomas and a little behind Jack, the smell of good cooking assaulting his senses, "You remember Thomas, and this is Ty, "

Ty stepped forward slightly looking nervous and feeling like a lost child at a shopping mall. His eyes went from one set of eyes to the next.

"This is my wife Lisa, she owns Fairfield, the stud that your father is partnering with in this venture, This is Lou, my granddaughter, she's the brains behind Heartland and the cook "

Ty smiled at the two ladies, showing his gratitude, remembering his good graces and etiquette from his day's hobnobbing with his mother.

"and this is" Jack started, but he saw Ty freeze his eyes monetarily on Amy as she came around the corner, her blonde hair soft around her shoulders, her eyes big and blue.

Ty's mouth opened slightly, his eyes liking what he saw, She was captivating to him, beautiful in a natural way, with only a touch of make up on her face. He smiled again, his dimples showing as he lost all ability to speak, his eyes staying transfixed on hers.

Amy felt her stomach jump, the photos, and the tabloids didn't do him justice, those eyes were intoxicating. She gave him the smallest of smiles as their eyes locked, a connection between them not seen by anyone else in the room. Amys' eyes walked over him too, from his dark brown hair that fell across his face, the dusty blue jeans that sat just right, and the leather jacket, old yet stylish, giving him an edgy look that just oozed with sex appeal,

"this is Amy " Lou said, "my sister, and the head trainer here, "

Ty grinned in admiration, "wow, head trainer, but your …" He stumbled, seeing Amy's eyebrow raise in question.

"a girl, yes, girls can be trainers, head ones too! "she rebutted, making Ty take a breath, taken aback by her snark,

"no, I was going to say, your young, and that's impressive, " he corrected, his green eyes flickering with a slight challenge to her accusation.

"you'll be working with Amy for the most part son, so best keep her on your good side, "Jack said with a grin,

"Oh I intend to sir, "Ty replied, his eyes still on the beauty that stood in the doorway to the lounge. Only looking at back at Jack when he heard him cough and give him a questioning {watch it} look.

"Well, Jack, I have a teleconference in an hour, so I won't be staying for dinner, "Thomas cut in, noticing the time. He looked at Ty who quickly broke his eye lock with Amy at this announcement, his expression now showing confusion and a little uncertainty.

"Um, is dad meeting me here or?" Ty asked in a soft voice, his face showing his reluctance to let Thomas leave, Thomas hadn't mentioned his father or his plans since they left the airport.

Thomas took a breath and looked at Jack, not wanting to have this conversation "Jack will explain how this is all going to work Ty, I'll see you in a few days ok"

Ty looked even more confused now as Thomas said his farewells and retreated back out the door. Stopping before he was out of earshot and calling back, "I'll leave your bags on the porch ok, "

Jack responded and then turned to a bewildered Ty who now felt like a fish out of water. He had been left with a family that didn't know him, and possibly didn't really want him there.

"come on in son, we are just about to have dinner, lets talk about all this later, " Jack said, clapping him roughly on the shoulder and guiding the young man through to the dining table,

"um, no offence, its Jack right "Ty began, he was over all of this subterfuge, "my father was supposed to meet me here and I really would like to know what's going on"

Jack took a breath, seeing the three girls standing in the doorway, watching the conversation with interest.

Jack opened his mouth, his eyes giving it away, Ty shook his head and rubbed his face, his smile changing from friendly and welcoming to dry and annoyed, "he's not coming is he, " he said softly, his hand now on his hip as he chuckled sadly to himself. "of course he's not, that would mean he actually gave a damn about me"

Jacks smile dropped seeing the disappointment and hurt run across the young mans face. "no son, he flew out to Australia this afternoon, "

"Australia, !" Ty whispered to himself in disbelief, his eyes now on the floor, "unbelievable, "

Amys' heart sank for this stranger, seeing the disappointment fill his eyes when the realization hit him that he had yet again been abandoned.

"Look, son, let's have some food, and then I'll take you to your room and,…."Jack kept his voice low, trying to give him something positive to hold onto.

"Um," Ty finally said, taking a small step back, looking up at the old cowboy and trying to mask how he really felt, "if its all the same to you, and I mean no disrespect at all, I'm beat, and I'd like to just turn in if that's ok, "

Ty flicked his eyes around to the females and gave them all a gentle smile, "thank you for the offer of dinner, it smells amazing, but I'm just not up for it right now,"

"I can put some aside for you if you like, so you can have it after you've rested," Lou suggested, seeing him move back slightly towards the door. She could tell he wanted to run, his body language giving his feelings away.

Ty smiled at her, "yeah, that would be great, thank you, umm..Lou. "

She nodded and he clicked his finger at her as if praising himself for getting her name right.

"so, this room you mentioned?" he asked, his eyes going to Jack and then to Lisa, assuming that as they were the heads of the family it would be there decision.

"come with me, son, I'll take you to your quarters, "Jack said, pointing to the front door and looking back at the girls with a sad look. He could tell that the no-show of his father had rocked Ty, and from what he had seen of Brad and how he dealt with his son, his heart went out to the young man. They may have a strained relationship, but to send him into the unknown, without even telling him why he was there or that he wouldn't be there to meet him. Even in Jacks logical mind and standards, was harsh.

Amy watched the two men leave and waited until they gathered Ty's belongs from the porch and headed over to the barn apartment. Before she spoke,

"did you see his face, "she said, "he didn't even know his dad was gone, who would do that to their kid, just dump them without a word"

Lisa shook her head, her hand over her mouth, "no wonder their relationship is rocky, that poor boy, His mother sends him away, and his father well, I can't imagine how embarrassing and hurtful that must have been for him."

"well, he's here now, and we can show him that not everyone is like his parents, "Lou said confidently, "let's have dinner and we will take some over to him later, once he's settled and has had some time to process, and decompress"

The girls all agreed and continued with their dinner prep. Amy's mind lost in the depth of those sad green eyes, wanting to know more, Amy decided in that moment as she set the table, she was going to get to know this Ty Borden and see what really lay behind the façade and stories that surrounded him.

---

"so this is where you'll be sleeping, " Jack placed Ty's duffle bag down on the floor and welcomed the tired and resigned young man into the loft apartment that was to be his home.

Ty let his eyes scan the renovated barn loft, seeing the large windows, the open plan spaces. He smiled as his eyes scanned the soft sofa and chairs surrounding a small pot belly stove, a large queen bed, rustic in design made from raw timber logs. With cheesecloth diviner curtains to give a little privacy.

There was a bathroom, although small, shower and toilet and a fully functioning kitchen, all in all, a rather hidden gem in an otherwise old looking structure.

"we start early around here, so get some sleep and I'll see you in the morning. "Jack explained, seeing Tys eyes still surveying his surroundings,

Ty walked slowly into the room, stepping away from his companion and ran his fingers through his long soft hair.

"it's not what you're used to but its comfortable and it's yours while your here" Jack continued, knowing the accommodations where probably below what he was obviously accustomed to.

Ty smiled and look back at the older cowboy, taking in his ranch attire, his stoic look, his well-groomed yet rough stubble.

"Its fine, its actually really cool" Ty replied, "um, did my father say when he was coming back?"

Jacks eyes saw the young man slight sliver of hope, that this trip to Australia was a short one.

"no son, he didn't, All I know is that you're to work here on the Ranch Until he returns or the Stud is operational."

Ty's mouth dropped slightly, "work? So I'm free labor, oh this is just perfect, "

Jacks eyebrow raised, seeing the edge and attitude coming through under the initial bewilderment and shock at being abandoned.

"if you're going to live here son, you're going to pull your weight if you hadn't already noticed, this is a working ranch, and rehab center, there's no room for slackers here, "

Ty shook his head, his defenses rising, "Im not a slacker, "

"good to know, you'll get your list of chores in the morning, Amy will be in charge of you and she will introduce you to…"

"Amy, "Ty said, his smile curling, "the little blonde, she's going to be my boss?" He chuckled, "but she's just a ….kid, a rather hot one, but still a …"

Ty saw Jacks face turn cool, his eyes locked onto the young man and his tone dropped. "let me explain a few things for you young man, one, you're here to learn the ranch and the horse trade, that means working, and working hard. two, yes, Amy may be young, but she's an accomplished trainer and she will teach you more about horses and the business than any other person on this ranch. "he stopped seeing he had the young mans attention," three, Amy is also my granddaughter, and as such, is out of bounds to you, "

Ty swallowed and gave a nervous chuckle, not sure if he wanted to challenge this six-foot cowboy who now stood before him. But challenge he did. "well if she's out of bounds, how am I supposed to work with her?" he asked, his tone not coming out quite as confident as it had sounded in his head.

Jacks eyes took in the younger, as he took another step towards the cocky young man.

"you will work with her, learn from her, but you will keep a healthy distance from both of my granddaughters at all times, if I catch any part of you crossing that line, that part will be removed, do I make myself clear"

A heavy silence fell between the two men, a silent challenge of wills that saw Ty finally concede and take a small step back.

"breakfast is at 6, see you then, "Jack finally said, heading for the stairs, "Id get a pair of boots if I were you, those fancy shoes aren't going to cut it here"

Ty looked at his converse sneakers and then back at the old cowboy as he walked down the stairs, his eyes looking around the loft in dismay.

" get some sleep, your going to find out the meaning of hard work tomorrow, so your going to need your rest,"Jack called from the barn below , hearing the younger mumble something under his breath, Jack smirked under his mustache, as he strolled back to the main house, he liked the kid, even if he was filled with angst and anger, Jack saw potential and he loved a challenge.

He opened the mudroom door and wandered inside, meeting the girls at the dinner table.

"so is he ok, "Lisa asked, "he looked so defeated when he realized his father wasn't here"

"he's fine Lis, tired, overwhelmed and a little annoyed, but fine, "Jack smiled,

"so he's not eating with us, "Amy said, "not the service he is used to I take it? "

Jack looked at his granddaughter, a soft smile on his lips, his voice metered and calm.

"he's a little shell-shocked, so let's give the kid some breathing space. You can take him a tray of food later,"

Amys mouth opened, showing her annoyance, "I will not be his servant Grandpa!, if he wanted to eat he …." She cut in sharply, her cheeks flushing,

"you will take him a tray after we're finished here, you can give him his chores list then too, "Jack warned,

Amy went to speak and Jack raised his hand to stop her, "enough ok, this isn't the perfect situation, but this is how its going to be, Ty will work with you, he will be given chores and jobs to do by you while your at school, You will train him, and show him how we do things here, and then when his father returns, well he will take his place at the Lucky and life will return to normal"

Amy bit her lip, not looking happy at all, "so I'm a glorified babysitter to a rich boy who supposedly spent some time on a ranch as a kid, "

"yes you are, "Jack growled back "have fun!"

Lou looked at her sister, giving her a, {leave it} look as she passed her the roasted potatoes, Amy pursed her lips, not happy with the situation at all. She didn't have anything against Ty personally, but the idea of having to be his minder didn't sit right with her.

"he's going to need boots, and possibly a hat, "Jack said, not looking up from his roast beef,

Lou looked up, seeing Amy look over at her, "I'll take you guys into town tomorrow if you like, get him set up, I've got to go do a supply run anyways" she said, waiting for Jack to respond, Lisa watching her husband, noting his unwillingness to discuss this any further.

"He can drive Lou, Amy can go with him in my truck, get what he needs and do the supply run too." Jacks eyes never left his meal, he didn't want to argue with his granddaughters over semantics.

"I've got two horses to test ride tomorrow Grandpa, "Amy responded, "they are in for trail issues, I won't have time to go for a joy ride "

Jack stopped eating and looked at his Grandaughter, his eyes metered . "well, if you go early, you'll get back early and Ty can help you with the test ride,!" he gave her a soft, easy smile and then returned to his meal. The discussion finally closed,

---

It was a little after eight when Amy slowly walked up the loft stairs, she carried a tray as per instructions by Jack in her hands, making sure her boot falls were heavy on the steps to announce her arrival,

She saw Ty sitting at the kitchen table, looking through his phone, his face a little despondent, He turned to her at the sound of her footsteps, quickly getting up and looking a little surprised, his smile soft and friendly.

"I've got your supper," Amy said, her voice a little short, but still friendly. She stopped at the top of the stairs, offering him the tray to collect.

Ty walked over to her and took it from her hands, his fingers grazing hers as he did, making Amy give him a small smile, her cheeks flushing slightly.

She looked away, diverting her eyes, taken a little aback by the charge she felt from his touch.

"you didn't need to do that, "he said softly, walking back to the table, and placing the offering down, "but thank you, "

Amy turned to leave but heard him move again, his sneakers squeaking on the polished floorboards, "um you want to stay for a bit, fill me in on what this place is all about?" he asked, hoping she would say yes. He really didn't like being alone. Amy intrigued him, she had this presence about her that he couldn't quite get his head around. And he also had felt the snap when their hands had touched.

This was the first time he had actually wanted to get to know a girl for more than just a conquest, not that he wasn't saying he didn't find her attractive because he definitely did, that blonde hair, those blue eyes, the jeans that fit in all the right ways. What was there not to like. But that's not what had him intrigued, this girl was different, and he wanted to know more.

Amy looked at the young man, who stood watching her, his smile warm and inviting. She let her eyes wander slightly and had to agree with Ashley, that standing in that light, his hair sprayed across his face, his green eyes inviting her in. He was rather easy on the eye. He was in a soft grey long sleeve tee, that hugged across his chest, giving it just the right amount of definition, His shoulders were square, and held a slender, yet fit torso, with old faded jeans riding just a little low, without a belt to hold them up.

"please, "he said again, "I really hate eating alone," Amy noted his tone was soft and honest, with a hint of sadness breaking though. Being on his own was obviously something he didn't really enjoy but sadly it seemed to be a regular occurrence.

"ok, "she said finally, her walk to the table a little unsure, but open to giving it a go, "Lou wasn't sure what you liked, so she gave you a bit of everything"

Ty smiled a relieved and full smile, his dimples showing as he pulled out the chair for her, noting her bashful look when she sat down opposite the tray.

"Im not that fussy really, I'll eat just about anything "he laughed,

He took a seat opposite her, his eyes watching her, wondering why he felt a little awkward, This was a new feeling for Ty, he never had problems with the opposite sex, his confidence in himself and who he was always made it easy for him, there was also the fact that most girls he had known simply threw themselves at him, meaning there wasn't really much of a challenge for him at all. He wanted, he got, he liked, he offered, it was his. Its how it worked when your family fame shone brighter than your own personality. But this girl, this pretty little county beauty who didn't really care about his fame and fortune, his family or status was making him work for it. He chuckled to himself, so this was what it felt like to be on the other side, to actually have to try to impress someone with more than just material status and name.

He'd never felt these feelings before, this need to impress and get her approval. It baffled him, but he liked it.

"so, Jack said you had a list for me, of jobs, or chores," he said, as he started to devour the roast beef dinner that sat before him, he hadn't realized just how hungry he actually was. And that apart from Vodka and lemon, and a pack of peanuts on the plane, he hadn't really eaten anything all day.

"I'll bring it over in the morning," She said, smiling as he shoveled the food into his mouth, her jaw resting on her hand. "you a little hungry there?"

Ty stopped mid-mouthful, and let his eyes look up at her, then wiped his mouth, he went to put the cutlery down, realizing he was eating so quickly it was barely hitting the sides as it went down.

"Um, sorry, "he smiled, finishing his mouthful, feeling a little embarrassed, "it's good, I like it" He flicked his eyebrows playfully, as he stabbed yet another potato.

Amy grinned and nodded, "yeah, I can see that, "

He let his eyes play on hers for a second then gave her an enticing smile, "There's a lot of things I could really like around here"

Amy dropped her gaze from his, feeling her cheeks flush, she growled at herself for allowing his flirty comment to ruffle her.

Ty saw the flush in her face, taking it as a win, pleased his comment had seemed to impact on her slightly.

"so Grandpa said you're from Montana?" she asked, her eyes watching as he crossed his knife and fork and then picked up the piece of Saskatoon pie.

TY nodded, as his spoon took a little bit of the filling, not recognizing the contents and slipped it into his mouth. She grinned as he appraised the pastry, trying to figure out the sweet nutty almond flavor.

"its Saskatoon Berry" She finally said, his eyes looking up to hers again, not knowing the flavor.

"I like this too!" he grinned, tucking in and consuming the slice in a matter of minutes.

After he was done, Amy made a coffee for them both, showing him the fully stocked shelves, and pantry in the small kitchen,

"this is a nice set up here, you have people over a lot?" he asked,his eyes scanning the loft again, still impressed at how it had been put together in such a unique space.

"We have short-term clients stay here usually, and sometimes family and friends, mostly overnighters" she explained, as she placed the cup in front of him, and felt his hand touch hers again as he went to take it. They froze for the second time, their eyes on each other, neither willing to break the connection between them. It was Amy who finally gave in, slowly pulling her hand back and sitting back down across from her new charge.

"I've got to go into Hudson tomorrow on a supply run, so if your up for it, can you drive, I'll take you to the shops as well, get you some boots, maybe a hat? "

Ty grinned, "a hat?" he laughed, "you trying to turn me into a cowboy already?"

"no, its just your probably going to need one, if your working with me" she explained, giving him a cheeky grin back.

"ok, so Im a chauffeur tomorrow, "he smiled,

"yes, to start with, well after morning chores anyways, "

Ty raised an eyebrow, "morning chores?"

"yes, the horses, we need to muck out, feed water, "she said, as she sipped her coffee, "I'll help you tomorrow, show you how it's done, but moring barn work will be one of your jobs moving forward, for this barn anyways, "

Ty's mouth twerked at the corner slightly, not wanting to spoil the moment but secretly a little put out by the idea he was the hired help.

"you are ok with that right? Grandpa said to start you off as a hand," Amy was watching him now, she had picked up on the slight shift in his attitude, "farm work, not beneath you I hope"

Amy's slight quip at him saw his smile fade completely, She watched as Ty put down his cup and packed up the tray, covering it up with the kitchen cloth and then sliding it over to her side of the table.

"thanks for the food, I think I'll head to bed now, so I'll see you in the morning," he walked away from her, heading for the bed, where he kicked off his shoes and threw himself back onto the covers, his head nestled into the pillows as he pulled out his phone from his pocket.

Amy felt the coldness overtake him, her words causing him to withdraw from their up to then, friendly and pleasant conversation. A twinge of guilt hit at her as she stood up and walked over to the corner of the bed frame, her hand pulling back the cheesecloth curtain.

"look, I didn't mean …. "she started, trying to explain,

"forget it Amy, its fine, I'll see you at 6 am, " Ty didn't look up from his phone, his leg now raised at the knee as he rummaged around in his jeans pocket and pulled out a set of earbuds,

"Ty, I'm sorry, It's just with the stories I've heard and the magazines and….." she tried to explain, trying to make him see why she had assumed he wouldn't be happy to work with her.

This time her comments raised his eyes directly to hers, they were a piercing green now, filled with disappointment at seeing that she too, wasn't much different from everyone else out there in the world.

"so you believe everything you read, do you!" he challenged, then gave her a dry chuckle, "of course you do, your just like all the rest, it was stupid of me to think that maybe you were different"

He pushed his earbuds into his ears and went to hit play on his phone, his anger and annoyance showing on his face,

Amy narrowed her eyes and walked over to him, not liking the implication that he had just thrown her way, even if inside her heart, she knew she had done exactly what he had accused her of doing, she grabbed his hand, stopping him from turning on is music and glared at him.

"are you telling me the stories aren't true, that you didn't steal that car, and crash it,! that you didn't hit that camera man!" she challenged,

Ty sat up, pulling the earbuds out of his ears and flipped her hold on his hand around so he was now holding hers, not allowing her to move away until he allowed her too, his eyes locked on hers as he answered, "No I didn't steal the car!, but I was IN the car, and NO I didn't crash it either, my friend lost control on a turn and it slid into a tree. I was the one who called the ambulance and when the cops turned up I took the wrap for him as he was smashed at the time, "he took a breath, and glared at her, "and that cameraman, deserved it, he accused me of sleeping with a 13-year-old girl, so yeah I hit him, "

Tys chest was heaving now, seeing Amys face and surprised shock at his outburst, He let her hand go with a fling, looking away and taking a deep breath, the flood of hurt at her accusations overwhelming him.

Amy pulled her phone from her pocket and flipped through some images, pushing it up in front of his face, "so this isn't you then, this isn't you half-naked, with girls all over you, or this one, drinking and letting the world see…. Everything!" she retorted, her blue eyes challenging him again.

Ty rubbed his face, the anger taking hold, he like this girl, and he didn't want to lose it at her, but as always he was being judged for a private moment in time that was once again put on public display.

"yes that's me, "he replied, his voice low and edgy, "but I didn't give my ok for them to be posted!, "

"but it's you, with that girl, for a guy who doesn't like attention, you sure do like to put yourself out there for it" She looked at the screen" way out there!"

Ty sighed and stood up, coming to stand right in front of her, his eyes locking to hers, "those photos were taken by someone I thought was my friend, I'd only just found out, I was being shipped out here, to god knows where with people I didn't know or had even heard of before. " he took a breath, trying to make her understand, "I didn't even know those photos existed until I got off the plane, "

Amy looked at Ty, seeing his pain, and his tiredness at being exploited by those he trusted.

"are you saying she took them without you knowing ?" Amy asked, amazed that someone would even contemplate doing that to a friend, or their boyfriend, let alone someone they just shared a bed with.

"I trusted her, and well, she used that against me, " he squeezed Amy's hands and calmed his tone, "I agreed to the other photos, when I said goodbye to New Port and my so-called friends there, but the bedroom shots, I promise you, I didn't know anything about them"

"but … " she started, his eyes and their intensity making her feel slightly uncomfortable.

"forget it " he bit at her, seeing his attempt to yet again bare his soul and be honest wasn't believed "believe what you want, everybody else does, why would I think you'd be any different" he let go of her hands and turned back to the bed, laying back down and making himself comfortable again. Turning his emotions off, and blocking her from getting close to him again.

"what does it matter what I think,"Amy asked, confusion in her eyes over his reaction to her thinking the worst of him.

Ty looked up and took a deep breath, his green eyes now soft and childlike, as he spoke from the heart one last time,

"it matters to me"

And with those parting words, he pushed his earbuds into his ears and hit play, blocking out the world, the loft, Amy, all of it. He shut his eyes and settled back, his mind blocking out the judgments and the accusations.

Amy watched him for a few moments and went to speak again, but realized it was mute. He had shut her out, her questions and assumptions had hit a raw nerve in him and for some reason, her opinion of him seemed to matter. She slowly walked over to the table and picked up the tray, then headed for the stairs, looking back at him briefly as she went to leave. Tys eyes were still shut, his hands folded gently across his abdomen. His head gently tapping to the beat of the music that held her at bay.

Amy chewed her lip, she felt guilty, and somehow a little sad for this guy who she had only just met. The idea of constantly having your life scrutinized by the public, your innermost personal details on display for the world to see. Made her feel for him somehow. He was by no means perfect, but he never claimed to be, but for Ty, his mistakes were public knowledge, his indiscretions were plastered across glossy pages. Living with that would make you jaded, she thought to herself, it would make you defensive and guarded. She didn't blame him for pushing her away. For backing out of the questions and letting her come to her own conclusions, no one believed him anyway so why would he bother to correct them. But, then, for her, he had tried to explain, but she had let her own misgivings and judgments get in the way.

She took a last look at her new hired hand, feeling his pain, and vowing to herself to not judge him from that point on, she wanted to know the real Ty Borden, not the playboy that was public property. And hopefully, if he allowed it, she would see him for who he truly was.

to be continued