A/N:Sorry for the wait guys, life got a bit hectic, with birthdays and family dramas to sort out, so i give you this chapter which started as two but i decided since i kept you waiting, id let you have them together. Enjoy, more twists and turns to come.
Chapter 26
"where are we going, Ty?" Amy asked, excitement filling her eyes as he lead her down the corridor. He loved seeing her so elated. Her blue eyes radiating her desire to know what he was up to.
He stopped at the elevator, the spring in his step giving away his own enthusiasm.
"Look, I want to do something for you ok, "He said softly, giving her a gentle smile, his hair falling across his brow making her heart flutter somewhat at how handsome he looked.
"ok, so what are we going to do?" Amy asked, feeling a little giddy. He had sprung this impromptu outing on her when she had come back from cleaning up after the beach, told her to put on something casual yet pretty, and not ask too many questions of him. Amy had agreed, intrigued by his conditions but finding a loophole, He didn't say she could as her grandfather, and that was, to his bemusement exactly what she did.
Jack did no more but smile at her, the clerk knocking on the door and bringing in Jacks dinner while Ty came out of the master bedroom, dressed well, yet casually. He had dark jeans, a wide belt and silver buckle, a simple design, of a silver oval with a wolfs claw engraved across the front. Not quite cowboy, but still kind of country, Amy's family and way of life, starting to rub off on him a little.
Amy checked him out, her eyes dancing over the epitome of rugged sexiness that he exuded. White tee, tight and snug against his chest, black over shirt, unbuttoned by three, and leather jacket, also black, with Harley Davidson embellishments on the shoulders and sleeves. His boots, cleaned and now looking like new, set the style, rough and rugged, yet roughish and handsome.
Now standing at the elevator, he gave her the warmest of smiles, his eyes loving her dark blue snug fitting dress that hugged her hips and caressed her curves. It was a simple Navy midi dress featuring short sleeves, bodycon fit, and a Bardot neckline. Which Amy had bought at the boutique yet again at Ty's request. This time, however, paying for it herself, as she frowned on him offering her his credit card yet again.
She looked amazing to Ty, his eyes unable to detach from her and how the dress encapsulated her feminine form.
"where are we going, Ty?" Amy pushed, Ty, taking her jacket from her arm and putting it around her shoulders,
"somewhere very special ok, "he grinned, "just trust me"
They entered the elevator, arm in arm. Amy still feeling like she was missing out on a joke that she should know the punchline too. But her curiosity rose even higher when Ty hit the up arrow on the panel and not the down.
They rose to the 84th floor, the doors finally opening and Amy taking a quick breath when she saw Locky standing, At Ease, military-style near the large frosted glass doors before them.
"what is this?" Amy whispered, her arm instinctively wrapping around Tys, her face filled with wonder.
"well, I wanted to take you out, to say thank you for everything you've done and put up with, well mostly me in that retrospect, since we came here, " Locky took a step back, nodding gently and giving Amy and approving nod for her attire.
"Ty you didn't need….." Amy stammered, feeling a little overwhelmed,
"no, "He said, "none of that ok, you deserve this, and so do I,
He gave a quick cuddle as he walked towards the doors, Locky opening them before the couple as they stepped inside.
"Oh, MY "Amy breathed,
"This is Highlight 84, an exclusive dining floor and club for, well the select few people in the know." Ty said, "my dad used to use it all the time to entertain his ….. "Ty stopped, then decided to not go down that road right at that moment "his clients, it gave him a secure place to talk and interact without the media hype and interruptions."
"it's beautiful, I ….. I feel like …urh, "Amy didn't know what to say. The room was set out with no more than 20 tables, each a fair distance from the other, surrounding a large open polished wood dance floor. There were fairly lights adoring the borders of the large wall height glass windows, giving the room a soft low lit glow and ambiance. There was a mini grand piano in one corner of the elegant space, with soft plush couches behind it, giving patrons a place to sit and enjoy the melodies that came from the ivory and ebony keys.
Although the room was very upmarket, it held a feeling of comfort and relaxation, with many nooks and crannies around the area where one could simply curl up and escape from the rigors of being in the public eye.
Ty guided Amy, his hand around hers as he lead her towards the rear of the room, going through a set of frosted glass doors into a sperate area where Ty stepped through a veil of long white curtains into a more modern, yet chic sub-room. This part of the private restaurant still had a stunning view but gave the visitor a feeling of being in the clouds as all walls where transparent. Again, there were tables, but only 5 or so, and a few scattered white leather occasional chairs littered the corners of a smaller but lacquered black dance floor. Neon lights illuminated the rear wall, where there was a colorful display of bottles and decanters behind a well-stocked and modern set bar.
Ty guided Amy to a table, the room only having 4 other couples in residence at the time, giving them some well-deserved privacy. No one stared or gave them shuttered looks, for this was a place where those who were hounded got to unwind and relax without the constant annoyance and of the public's ever-present watchful eyes.
He helped her sit down then took his place opposite her hoping she liked the venue and the ambiance.
"this is very exclusive Ty, I feel like one of those bouncers over there is going to come and escort me out of here any second."
"why?" Ty grinned,
"because, you know, I'm not like you, Im…Im just me, the public doesn't care about little old me "Amy felt her cheeks flush as Ty chuckled at her, she was very adorable when she was insecure.
"you have just as much right to be here as I do Amy, "he said, clicking his finger to a waiter and getting his attention.
"seven and seven thanks," Ty said, then looked at Amy for her order?
"Um, erh, just a ….." Amy didn't know what to say, she didn't want to look like a silly school girl and simply order a soda pop, but Amy wasn't big on alcohol either. Choosing in most cases not to drink.
"a Lemon, lime, and bitters for the lady " Ty continued, giving her a soft smile.
The waiter disappeared, and Amy felt her cheeks flush, seeing what Ty had done for her nervousness and appreciating it.
"this is amazing Ty, how did you know this place was here?" Amy asked,
Ty gave her a sideways smile, and rubbed his chin, "like I said, My father stayed at this hotel all the time, It seems he got to know Sydney quite well while I was in New Port, so …. All I did was ask the concierge and he told me of this humble establishment."
"this is far from humble Ty, "Amy voiced, looking at the beautiful setting, the almost 360 views was breathtaking from that high up.
"you didn't need to do this TY, honestly, "Amy continued, seeing him lean back into his chair, his eyes still watching her intently.
"yes I did, "he replied, "I wanted to thank you for being here, and for …." He suddenly became awkward, aware his sincerity was once again on display. "order anything you want ok, please, "
"But, "Amy looked at the small menu card before her, the food sounded amazing, but she couldn't help noticing that there were no listed prices.
"Please, Amy, anything, is fine," Ty grinned, "it's on my Dad ok"
Amy looked up at her escort for the evening, seeing something else at play in his eyes. He had been fine all afternoon, but something had shifted from the moment they left the apartment.
The waiter came over to them again, a young man, dressed in black, with a middle eastern appearance.
"You two ready to order? "He smiled, notepad in hand.
"Um yeah, I'll have the barramundi burger with a side of your um…" Ty stopped looking at the menu "plank chips?" he sounded unsure.
The waiter smiled at him and wrote on his tablet, "really thick fries" he explained,
"oh ok, sounds good to me," Ty grinned, he looked over at Amy who still looked unsure
"what do you suggest?" she asked the man standing beside her, "they all sound wonderful"
"Well, the Fregola ai Frutti di Mare is amazing if you like seafood," he replied, "sensational handmade pasta with cuttlefish, prawns, calamari, mussels, tomato, and a bottarga crumble"
"ok, I'll have that" Amy agreed, it sounded different and since Sydney was known for its amazing cuisine she was keen to try something new.
He again tapped his tablet and left them be, Amy's eyes returning to Tys as his were off on the horizon.
"Ty, "She said, seeing the look in his emerald eyes, something was on his mind. This was not the same Ty that had played with her in the Bondi waves only hours before.
"you seem like you need to say something" she pushed, hoping to get him to open up.
Ty took a slow breath, his chest heaving slightly as he let his eyes flash back to her, the smile still there, but tempered. "It's nothing Amy, really, let's just enjoy our food, and let this last night be a good thing hey, "
She could see he really wanted to placate her, stop her from prying, but Amy wasn't known for taking simple ques like that. Or allowing people to hold back when it was obvious they had something to say.
"its tomorrow isn't it," She said slowly, giving him a lead-in, "you're worried about going home, and what it means"
Ty dropped his gaze, his hand rubbing his forehead, "partly, I won't lie, tomorrow is on my mind, but that's not all of it, "
"Ty, "Amy pushed again, her hand touching his, "I'm here, I'm listening"
He opened his mouth and let his breath push past his teeth, seeing she wasn't going to let it go, "when you were getting ready to go out tonight, I got a call, and "
"who from?"
"Thomas actually, He was filling me in on the funeral plans he had set up at Lucky. "Ty said quietly.
"Oh, ok, so when is it, have they decided on a day?"
"yeah, Next Wednesday, The funeral home should have ..d….the ….the remains by then so there's no reason to drag this out any further. "
"So, you'll fly down to Montana or?" Amy asked, unsure of his plans past returning to Hudson with her the next day"
"Thomas said he would send the company jet, so "ill probably just wait till Tuesday and then head down" His eyes looked sad again, Amy seeing the pain of his father loss behind his stillness.
"Grandpa and I would like to send some flowers if that's ok with you?" Amy said softly
Ty nodded, accepting the sentiment, "thank you that would be nice, "
They sat in silence for a little while, when the waiter brought over their drinks, Ty quickly taking a swig of his and taking the edge of his emotions.
"Amy, "he finally said, his eyes on his glass as he ran his finger around the rim, "would you…come to the funeral with me?"
Silence again, Amy's eyes misting slightly at his request, this was the first time he had asked for her support.
"of course, "she replied, "I was going to offer, but I didn't know if it was what you wanted and I…."
"its what I want, "was his reply, his eyes still on his glass.
Amy squeezed his hand, showing him, she would once again be by his side.
"have you thought about what you're going to do once this is all over?" she asked,
Ty smiled, and looked out the window again, "not really, it's all rather surreal, "
Amy chewed her lip, she had a burning question on the tip of her tongue that she so wanted to be answered but she was unsure if this was the time or place.
Ty looked over at her, and saw the questioning look, knowing she was holding something in, "just ask ok, whatever it is that Is nipping at you, I can't answer you if you don't tell me what it is"
Amy took a breath, "ok, I am just wondering if you have decided if you're going to stay at Heartland or, now that the Lucky Ranches and your father's businesses fall to you if you're going to go and…" she stopped, the thought too painful to imagine,
"Honestly, I don't know, I was never interested in dad's business ventures, and I don't know what he's actually left to me and won't until after the reading of the will. "he paused, "There's also all these legalities dad put in place, with me being under 21, the board of directors will step in I suppose, and hold most of the business titles and management until they deem me old enough to handle it all, not that I want to handle it, because I don't, I love the ranches and the horses and all, but the business side, and all the wheeling and dealing he did, that's just not me,"
"it's your legacy Ty, you are his only son, "Amy pointed out,
"Yeah, I know, "he agreed, "but he's technically still married to mom, so who knows how this will work"
Amy considered his words, he was right, Lilly and Brad were separated, but not divorced. Making Lilly a beneficiary in this most likely as well. There was also the issue with the family trust, the one that Lilly and Brad had set up for Ty once he turned 21. Jack still held third party signatory on that, meaning Lilly and Jack were the residing powers over the family fortune. This money was not only Brads but Lilly s too. A Joint fund they had built over the years to secure the foundation and longevity of their child and family name. They had tried for another child, but Lilly had miscarried. And after that devastation, she and Brad had decided that Ty, being their sole son and heir, would grow up to be an only child.
Brads distance with Ty had grown after the loss of his second child, another boy, and possibly the one his hopes for excellence had fallen upon after he had lost faith in Tys ability to follow his demands for perfection.
"so, you think that Brad left some to your mom too," She asked,
"possibly, I don't know, mom never showed interest in ranching or horses. She was a starlet; her life was the movies and castings and high-end life. She never liked it in Montana, not after her career started to climb"
"I suppose you'll find out soon enough hey, "Amy turned to look at the dance floor, the spotlights had turned on in different colors and were moving across the black surface, making patterns on the tiles.
"I suppose I will. "Ty agreed, "Thomas said Jack I'll have to attend, as my advocate, unless he signs Thomas over as the signatory wants "
"Do you want him to do that?" Amy asked Ty, her face a little confused, Jack had told her about Thomas push to make him relinquish his hold on the advocacy. And how Jack had refused. Not wanting to break his promise to Brad to keep Ty safe and protected.
"Thomas said it might be easier, that way all the money is in one place, you know, handled by one team. "he stopped, unsure if what he had been told was the right or best thing to do. He had always respected Thomas, but after seeing those emails and hearing what Jack had said about how he had pushed him, he wasn't sure who to believe anymore, "I'll still have my survival fund, you know the money I get to live on, but the rest will be trusted until Im older, Maybe that's best, maybe Mom and Thomas should be the ones to handle dads affairs. "
"Ty, please don't make any rash decisions yet ok, this is all so confusing and I don't know I anyone is really telling you the full story. "Amy squeezed his hands, seeing the confusion in his eyes, "there's no rush, you have time to think this through, maybe get an outside opinion, from a different source, like a separate law firm or…."
Ty nodded, conceding that may be a good idea. He did have a lot of people pushing him to make a decision, He had no idea what his father had intended for him. Maybe he cut him off, maybe he finally decided he wasn't worth wasting his money and fortune on. This conversation could all be for nothing and after the reading, he may find he is nothing more than an unemployed penniless bum, with no aspirations or plans for the future.
The waiter brought over their meals, Ty's burger looked enticing, and they both enjoyed the plank chips, not ever having them before. Amy's pasta, well, it lived up to its reputation and she was now very much a lover of seafood or any description.
They ate and talked, enjoying their meal and each other, neither allowing the conversation to get too deep or pointed. Choosing lighter topics such as their afternoon at the beach, or the way Jack was well and truly over his Australian adventure.
As the night wore on, Amy noticed other couples, young in age mostly enter the dining room, some she recognized as influential people, or from magazines, others just seemed to be wealthy young adults, the influential youth that lived in the world of high society of financial wealth, Some were Australian, which Amy found interesting, One being a young pretty girl with a rather down to earth yet public personality. Others were obvious international guests, either holidaying in the beautiful city or seeking some time away from their parents or family while they handled their business abroad.
They had orange chocolate soufflé for dessert, Amy opting to share one serve as she didn't think she had enough room for one of her own. She did, however, cause TY to shake his head in disbelief when she all but consumed the serving that sat before him, starting off as simply wanting a taste.
The music had started to play when they finished their second round of drinks. Ty changing to a whiskey and coke, and Amy staying with her new favorite LLB.
Amy heard a familiar song and started tapping her foot to the beat, Ty noticed her movements and after sculling, the remainder of his drink offered her his hand.
"you want to dance?" he asked, his smile electric, the whiskey burning the back of his throat. He had remained in control, not allowing the drink to take him. Wanting to enjoy the night and not simply sleepwalk through it.
Amy gave him a huge smile at the idea and accepted his hand, going with him as he spun her under his arm as they headed to the large dance floor, where other guests had already started to dance the night away.
He slid his arm around her waist as she spun back to him, his body coming into contact with hers as he pulled her arms up so they cradled his neck.
"you look amazing in that dress" he whispered into her ear "that one is definitely a keeper"
Amy giggled and let her body move with his to the music, the medium tempo number not needing too much energy to keep up with.
They danced and enjoyed the contact, Ty's arms sliding around her as the music changed to something faster, where others around them began to bop along to the beat, TY was behind her now, his hands on her hips, his head on her shoulder, his lips brushing her ear as they danced. Making Amy tingle right down to her toes.
This time though there was no worry of cameras and shutterbugs, no panic over who might be watching, the safety of the location giving them both a respite from constantly being invaded by public attention.
Amy took a seat at the table, taking a well-deserved sip of her drink as Ty excused himself to go to the bathroom. She watched him disappear amongst the now many patrons. Seeing him acknowledge some young man who recognized him in passing.
Once out of Amy's eyeshot, Ty moved down the corridor towards the men's room his mind miles away.
He pulled his phone from his jeans pocket and checked his messages, seeing one missed call.
He hit redial and pushed the phone to his ear. Hello, "
"Ty? Is ….is that you?"
"Mom?" Ty said softly, his voice rising, he had recognized the number, but was fully expecting Wade to answer the call,
"oh TY, are you ok, I've been seeing all these stories about you and that you're in Australia. I was so worried you were caught up in the middle of all this,"
Ty looked at a couple who walked past him, trying to keep his conversation quiet, "Mom, caught up in what?"
"Oh Ty, I just need to know that you're ok, you are yes, please tell me you are," she didn't seem to hear him and Ty noticed the slur in her tone.
"your drinking aren't you," he said flatly,
The line was quiet, and he knew the answer to be affirmative.
"for Christ sakes mom, "he breathed, "the only time you actually pick up your phone and your drunk!"
"it's not like that Ty, it's just been hard, the news of your father and well, then there's …..I have no idea what I should do now, "
"what are you talking about?" Ty pushed, "what happened ?"
"I …. He's gone, I told him to get out, I won't have him treat you like that, it's your right, it's supposed to be for you!"
Ty's heart was racing, he tried to put together what his mother was saying, but struggled to know how much of it was the vodka talking instead of her.
"Who is gone? You mean dad?" Ty asked, "are you talking about dad?"
"no, TY, No, I told him to leave, Im talking about your stepfather, Wade, "she finally blurted, "I left him, he's gone, I sent him away "
Ty's mind was reeling, she finally did it, after all the beatings and the fights and the mental anguish, She had finally stood up and said no more, he couldn't believe it,
"you left Wade? Are you serious? really?" He asked, feeling like this was a dream.
"yes, I left him, I told him I wouldn't allow him to take what was rightfully yours." she replied, her voice a little shaky but triumphant
"what are you saying MOM, " Ty breathed down the phone, not following her comments, confusion filling his eyes,
"Wade wanted me to give him authority of the trust, he said he could help me manage it, and that he would be your advocate from now on, " she paused, her voice shaking , "I couldn't allow him to have that kind of power, not over the money we, Brad and I set up for you, "
"I ….I don't …. Are you saying Wade made a play for the trust? , "Ty asked, his head still trying to wrap around what his mother was saying.
"he said he was trying to help, make it easier for me, but I couldn't just,,,,, I promised Brad I'd, So I came home, and I'm… you know, It's hard, especially on my own"
"Your home?" he exclaimed, "where, Montana? "
"no Ty, I'm home in California, Im back in New Port, "She stopped, sounding a little deflated, "I didn't get the part, they said they were after someone younger"
"I'm sorry mom, " Ty dropped his tone, fearing it was only a matter of time before Wade resurfaced.
He knew to well he wouldn't give up on his control of Lilly that easily.
"are you coming to Montana, for the funeral or,,,?" he pushed, "you need to be there mom"
"I don't know Ty, It's just so hard, I … I can't say goodbye not like this, not to Brad, he….I loved him"
"well you sure had a funny way of showing it!" he retaliated, and then instantly regretted it when he heard her sob. "look Im sorry ok, But the funeral is on Wednesday. You have to come for that at least"
"I …I…TY I just don't think I can, it's too hard to face, with the media being there, his death is a circus already. They will swarm me and want answers, I can't handle that alone, "
"Mom! You won't be alone!" he growled, not believing what he was hearing, "I'll be with you, we can face it together, "
"Ty, I….. just don't know, " She said in a defeated tone, "I will try ok but I can't say for sure I will be able to face it. it's very hard for me you have to understand that,"
"Come on!, it's your fucking husband's service!, you have to come, what am I supposed to do when they when they ask me where you are!. Don't you think it will look really bad if you don't turn up to your own husbands funeral" he took a shaky breath, his heart thumping in his chest, "what about me huh? What about what I have to face, alone! you're supposed to be there for me!" he shut his eyes, forcing the tears and pain away, for once again not having the support others took for granted. " you're my, y mom goddammit"
"Don't yell at me Ty! I'll think about it, ok Ty Ty, I just…." Lilly relented, her voice now hardly audible.
"what's there to think about MOM, Its dad! it's your husband!" Ty's voice had a quaver in it now too, his eyes a steely green as he heard his mom falter yet again,
"what the hell is going on Thomas!"
"it's ok, he's coming back tomorrow and will be in Montana by Wednesday, I'll sort it then. Trust me it will all be ok,"
"ok, ? are you serious? None of this is ok, by now that signatory should have been transferred and Ty should be looking to you for council,"
"he is I spoke to him today, he seems pliable and willing to do it my way,"
"he better be Thomas, otherwise I'll have to intervene and you know I have no time for that rich brat, " the voice grew agitated, "you either fix this or Ill handle it myself, "
"Im on it, leave it to me, He's a good kid, let me work It ok"
"you better be, I don't want him pushing us anymore, that stunt with the interview and those emails, sending us a warning , "the voice hardened somewhat as he went on" do you know how hard it was for me to explain any of that, the boss was ropeable, he looked at that email over and over"
"He's hurting, but I'll sort it, he trusts me "
"you've got one last chance, just shut him up and make sure he's at that reading ok, Once we have that sorted, it's all systems go.."
"he's not a threat ok, the boss has to see that, "Thomas was worried now, the tone of this whole thing had changed since Ty became a challenge to control. He liked Ty in his own twisted way, and this was now starting to look like, the young Borden might not be a safe as he originally thought he would be when all this begun.
"the boss isn't convinced of that Thomas, and neither am I, he's caused more problems than he's worth. just sort this out, I'll be on touch" the line went dead.
"is it done?" his eyes watched the metropolis below him go about its day, the smog filling the sky around his large window.
"Um no sir, we are still working it, "the other said, he looked nervous as he stood next to the large black high gloss finished desktop.
"you said you would fix this," the other said in a steely voice, his words slow and full of menace "and yet, it's still not fixed"
"Sir, look, Thomas promises he's got this at hand, "
"he said that before, and still I see his face taunting us, sending us messages that he knows we can understand. "
"he's fiery boss, seems we underestimated him" the man looked strained, his superior still not turning to look at him.
"he's a Borden, " the other sated, his dark hair slicked back tightly, with only a few tailored strands falling across his smooth pale brow. "I suppose I should be proud, he's got more guts than his father ever did"
There was a silence that fell between them, The subordinate not knowing what to say.
"tell me about Lilly? "
"she's struggling, I have to tread carefully if I push too hard, I'll lose my advantage, shes already bucking me for keeping her away from him"
"did she sign?"
"Um no, not yet, she's back in New Port, she needs time to think, well that's what she said anyways,"
"don't let her think too much, "the tall slender man said his hand now pulling a thin boutique cigar out of his top pocket, he sniffed it and then snapped the end off with a clipper,
"I get it, I'll be back by her side before she can get too comfortable,"
"keep them apart, " He slowly turned, his expensive black suit cutting an elegant picture as he stepped away from the window and lit his cigar, "they are weak when they are apart,"
"Yes boss, I just need a little more time, "
Silence fell again through the cool air of the luxury office. "you have till Wednesday, Wade, "his eyes narrowing as the threat hit home, "if it's not sorted by the close of that funeral, I take this over – do you understand,?"
"yes Boss, I hear you, Wednesday, I'll get it done" Wade turned and left the room, concern, and fear in his dull eyes as he pulled his phone from his pocket and pushed it roughly to his ear, "hi, Id like to book a flight to California, ?"
"well, you took your time," Amy smiled, as Ty came back towards their table, he looked pale and slightly agitated as he sat down. His hand shooting up straight to get the barman's attention, signaling for another drink.
"Are you ok, you look like you've seen a ghost," Amy pushed, worry filling her eyes now.
"I kinda just spoke to one actually," Ty muttered, pushing a few bills into the waiter's hand as another glass of cola and whiskey was placed before him. He picked up the tumbler and nearly skulled the entire contents, Amy grabbed his hand to stop him, her face now very worried.
"what going on Ty?"
Ty took a breath, wiped his whiskey flavored lips and let his green eyes locked to hers. "my mom just called"
Amy's mouth dropped and the words that she wanted to say floated away from her, She had no clue as to what to do with that information.
"is she ok?" Amy whispered, seeing now why he was so rattled,
"um, yeah, er, No, I have no clue, she sounds upset and like her world is over, but then with the next breath she's telling me she's doing ok," He rubbed his face, the strain showing "She said she left him"
"who?" Amy gasped, "that guy, the one she was living with."
"Yeah, Wade, she said she left him because he was trying to get her to sign her notoriety to the trust over to him"
Amy didn't know how to process what Ty was saying, there was a bargement of questions that attacked her mind now.
"he wanted control of your trust? Like Thomas wanted Jacks advocacy. "she mused. "you don't think they are, ?"
"I don't know Amy, I have no clue anymore, every time I take a step forward, I get dragged back with more questions that no one can or want to answer," Ty berated, looking frustrated as he picked up his drink again, leaving it empty in his wake. He was just a confused as Amy was.
"where is she?" Amy asked,
"she's back in New Port, " Ty explained,
"But she's coming to Montana right for the funeral?" Amy pushed, seeing Tys lip curl as he tried to process the information that was jetting around his skull.
"I have no clue, Amy, she wouldn't say, "he growled, then dropped his eyes, knowing he shouldn't be taking his frustrations out on her, the only person who he could truly rely on. "she thinks it will be too hard, she doesn't want to face it alone, "he rolled his eyes, "apparently "
"But …you'll be there, and,,," Amy was perplexed by his mother's reasoning, she couldn't fathom how she wouldn't want to be by her son's side, to help him face the final goodbye to his father. She knew Ty's family was dysfunctional, but she had hoped, that at least this kind of tragedy who bring them back together.
Ty rubbed his face, the hurt and rejection just simmering under the surface "I know, but …what can ya do" he shut his eyes and tried to focus, pushing a fake smile onto his face as he let his eyes meet hers, "lets just drop it ok, I wanted tonight to be about you, not my fucking nightmare of a family"
Amy sucked in a quick breath, hearing the anger in his words and knowing Ty only swore when he was riled up. "Ty, maybe you should talk to. Her… and,,," she tried to placate him, desperate to pull him back from the edge,
"Amy, please, I said just drop it ok, "he warned, "let's just enjoy our night and …."
He rubbed his face. Trying to maintain control, but he could feel the tidal wave overtaking him. He looked around the room. People having fun with their significant other, eating, drinking, dancing. He was envious, why couldn't he have that, why couldn't he spend one night without it all turning to crap around him.
He gave the waiter a placated nod when he deposited another drink before him, his fingers slid around the glass and were about to let it rest on his lips when he felt resistance on his arm. His eyes locked to his beautiful companion. Seeing her worried expression.
"Ty, maybe you should slow down, " she said in the softest of whispers, "that isn't going to make you feel any better"
Amy's blue eyes were on the glass, noting it was whiskey, neat now, with no mixer.
Ty watched her, his eyes the darkest of greens she had seen in a long time. They narrowed slightly as his other hand freed her fingers, gently from his arm, allowing him to skull the amber fluid in one gulp, his lip curling as it burnt his throat, making him exhale in its wake.
"lets dance, "he said quickly, his face still filled with contempt, but wanting to rescue their evening. He stood up, straightened himself up a little and held out his hand to her, Seeing Amy looking up at him warily.
"Ty, maybe we should go, "she offered, giving him a way out, "we can get some coffee in the apartment and talk this through"
An awkward silence fell between them, as the song changed to a slower number, Ty bouncing slightly on his toes, trying to reign in his frustration that once again his perfect night was being ruined.
He lent down to her, his hand still outstretched, hoping she would take the offer, needing her to take the offer. "I don't want to talk Amy, I want to dance, please, can you just …" he held his tongue, knowing the alcohol was playing with his emotions. He didn't want to say anything to hurt her, but if she kept pushing him, he didn't think he would be able to hold it back, "please, dance with me" he warned again, softening his voice and trying to show her his calmer side.
Amy stood up, taking his hand, hearing the warning, but knowing he was a time bomb waiting to go off in his present mood. She knew Ty had trouble expressing himself without letting his temper get the better of him. He had scars from his past that she knew affected how he reacted when he was pushed. Amy was also very aware that he used alcohol as a diffuser, it numbed his mind and took the pain away. It distorted the threat that faced him. Making it easier to simply ignore the feelings and bury them under the haze that filled his mind.
He walked her to the dance floor, his hand slipping around her waist and pulling her close, the music slow and alluring as Amy put her hands around his neck. She knew in her heart she was safe with him, even when he was buzzed. But his pain over his family and the damage he carried inside, was always just under the surface. The alcohol only blanketed it, helped him not face it. But she knew, it didn't ever make it go away.
They danced, Amy feeling his head on her shoulder, knowing he wanted comfort, for once again he felt rejected by the one woman in his life that should never make him feel so lost and unloved. She ran her hand through his hair, trying to show him, that she was there, she was his lifeline. Feeling him slightly relax as the song continued around them.
He turned her, moving across the dance floor, his hands on her waist, as he pulled her closer again, his body now in Contact with hers, Amy could hear his heart beating, feel his hips in line with hers. His hands splayed across her lower back, just above her behind.
Ty nuzzled in again, his lips grazing her ear as he whispered to her, "I'm sorry, "
Amy shut her eyes, feeling the slight tremble that ran through him, and hearing his plea, he was seeking reassurance and forgiveness for his actions. The anger he felt inside, was not at her, it never was.
Amy let her hand walk down his ear and along his jaw, pulling his face up to look at hers. Once she had his eyes locked, she reached up and kissed him, the sour whiskey biting her tongue as he stole what comfort he could from her.
The kiss lasted the rest of the song, the tempo changing slightly causing them to break apart. Ty gave her a soft smile, receiving her message and appreciating her ability to always pull him back from the brink.
"Hey, you mind If I cut in," a very Australian voice said, causing Ty to turn slightly, his eyes now on a tall, good-looking sandy-haired young man, around his own age standing just to the side of him.
Amy blushed and looked away, her hand still very much attached to her date.
"come on mate, she's too pretty to just be here for you" the cocky young bull quipped, Amy watching Tys shoulders square slightly at the comment.
"Um, look, we were just about to leave anyway so, thank you but I think I'll pa…" Amy cut in, giving Ty's arm a gentle tug, bringing his attention back to her and off of the interloper.
"babe, its customary here in Aus, that if someone asks you for a dance, you show some courtesy and accept " the young man pushed, his eyes walking over Amy and making her feel slightly uncomfortable.
"back off ok MATE" Ty growled, his body now moving and standing before Amy, blocking this young arrogant annoyance from getting near her.
"what's that,? American? No, no, that twang is, arh, Canadian" he laughed, "I should have pegged it, frosty up there isn't it"
Ty moved again, his stance changing as his feet squared off now too, His arm was still back to Amy, his hand holding hers, But Amy could see this was escalating past a simple dance request.
The young man's dance partner, a pretty, heavily made-up girl, in a tight sequined dress, that covered just enough of her body to make it decent attire. Smiled at her dance partner, her red nails running over his shoulder. Her eyes then moved to Ty who she looked up and down, appreciating his image when suddenly a looked of recognition flashed across her face.
"your him, the guy in the mags, on the TV, "she grinned, looking past him to Amy who she quickly disregarded "Hey, Ben, it is, its that guy on the TV, the one whose father just kicked it"
Ben, the son of a very wealthy land Mogal in Melbourne, in Sydney with his father for a few days, looked at Ty and then cocked an eyebrow, releasing his date was right,
"that explains it, "he grinned, "I just thought he was an out of town jerk, "
Ty stepped forward again, his temper now bubbling uncontrollably under the surface. Amy pulling again on his arm, getting his attention.
"Ty let's just go, ok, "She said clearly, her eyes portraying how much she needed him to trust her and just listen this time. "please"
Tys eyes held hers in his gaze, the fire in the slowly subsiding, Amy's blue eyes always soothed him, even when he was about to lose control. They had the ability to pull him back. She saw him take a breath and twitch his lip. Turning to her and walking away, Amy watching the couple over her shoulder as Ty's arm encircled her waist yet again.
Ben chuckled as he watched them leave the dance floor, his female counterpart now hanging from his side, "Americans, think they own the place, "
"Canadian" she countered, her eyes on Tys behind as they moved further away, Amy now putting her arm around his hip as well "and mmmmh, they breed them fine up there,"
Ben glared at his date, seeing her eyes were still admiring Tys retreating form. "they say he's the heir to the entire family fortune, hundreds of Millions the recon"
"she's wasted on him, "Ben snapped back, grabbing her and spinning her away to the music.
Back at the table, Amy looked at Ty as he sat across from her, his eyes diverted and looking out at the now dark view below them.
"are you ok?" she asked softly, her hand touching his as he tapped the table with a spoon.
"one night, "he said in a low hiss, "all I wanted was one night, without all this bullshit!"
"Hey, we had a great night, don't let that idiot spoil it, " Amy soothed, "and this afternoon, at the beach, it was amazing"
Tys eyes flicked back to her, she could see how annoyed the interruption had made him. "yeah, amazing until we got accosted by those girls demanding pictures, and now, this jerk, making me square off against him. " his voice was shaking slightly as he turned back to the window.
"Ty, your famous, you're in the public eye, people are going to recognize you no matter where you go, you can't stop that from happening, "
"Im not famous Amy, I'm the brat kid of famous parents, that's my claim to fame, I haven't done anything noteworthy apart from partying and or getting arrested repeatedly to warrant this. that's it, "he took a breath, and pressed his fingers into his eyes, "I never asked for this shit, I hate it, I always have "
Amy squeezed his hand seeing he was just about done. The reality of the trappings of his mothers and fathers life had whittled him down to next to nothing. He was right, he had been born into this life, he hadn't asked for it, he hadn't earned it or fought his way through hard work to achieve it. It had been handed to him on a silver platter, with no instructions on how to live it or survive it.
"let's go hey, "She tried again, "I think we could maybe watch a movie or?"
Ty shook his head, "this was supposed to be for you, I wanted to give you a look at what I ….." he stopped, deflated now, seeing his intentions were once again ruined.
"It's ok Ty, this has been wonderful ok, I've never been to a place like this or had food like that, its just ….wow…. I've had a great time, don't let that guy ruin it ok, " Amy touched his face pulling his eyes to hers again. "why don't we get some more dessert, and then head back, Id like to try one of those orange chocolate things you had?" She gave him a grin and tapped his cleaned plate,
"you ate the last one," he said softly, unable to hide the smile that played in the corner of his mouth,
"well, this one can be yours, "she chuckled, "I'll watch you eat it"
"Amy, who are you kidding, " Ty grinned, his eyebrow raised, "I'll be lucky to even get a taste,"
"Lilly, Babe, " Wade cooed, his voice thick with sentiment,
"leave me alone Wade, I told you, I won't be forced into,,,," Lilly quavered into the phone, her resolve shaking slightly.
"I understand and I'm sorry ok, I shouldn't have pushed you like that, "he took a breath trying to think how to word it to worm his way back into her good graces. "I was just looking out for you, and the kid, it's a huge responsibility for him to bare, and you know Brad sent me to you and him to help out, to make sure you were ok, "
"Brad trusted you Wade, and me, and look what we did, behind his back, we betrayed him!" Lilly's voice shook, her lips quickly touching the wine glass as she took another sip to steady her nerves.
"Lilly, come on, we fell in love, how can that be wrong? Brad knew about us, and he didn't care, trust me, he wanted you to be happy, and you were with me right, We were happy"
"yes, but, you ….. you and Ty… I have to put him first Wade he's my son and I've let him down so many times" She sobbed,
"shhh shhh, I get it, I know Ty and I have had our differences, but I just want to help the kid, honestly, I want to set this right, I've worked with Brad and the advisory panel, I know what Brad had in mind moving forward. I can help him through this once he takes control,"
"I don't know Wade, I don't know what Brad had in store for Ty and the business, he never told me, he just said I needed to abide by his wishes," Lilly walked through the glass doors, her eyes now looking over the infinity pool before her, picturing her son doing laps as he had done many a morning.
"well, the reading is Friday, we can fly in together if you want, see what's in store and take it from there. " Wade chewed his lip. He needed to get back by her side, he couldn't control this if she was going it solo, and without his shielding, Ty could easily persuade her to make the wrong decision.
"I don't know, I told TY I didn't know if I was coming at all, to any of it," she said faintly.
Wade's eyes narrowed, "you've spoken to Ty? "
"yes, just now, he's still in Sydney, he's due back in Canada tomorrow with…. With his father,"
"Look, Im coming to you ok, please Lilly, let me help you through this, let me help Ty" Wade coerced, his tone soft and inviting, knowing Lilly didn't do well on her own.
"I don't know, I told Brad I would do the right thing, make up for all the wrongs I've done, I ….. I can't "
Wade stopped, looking a little worried, "Lilly, when did you speak to Brad?"
There was no reply, "Lilly!, answer me please petal, When did you talk to Brad,?"
"when he first went to Australia, after I told him about Ty and the trouble he was having here, he called me when we were in Hollywood, he asked me to set it right," she said, her head hurting from having to think.
"set what right Lilly, what did he ask you!" Wade was pacing now, he had no idea Brad had contacted her after that initial chat about Ty, this was not good, he was supposed to be keeping her contained and separate from the plan.
"it's done now Wade, I did as he asked, and I'm glad I finally made him happy, "she took the last sip of her drink and wiped her lip, "he died knowing I did the right thing, at least this time anyways"
"Lilly!, what did you do? What did he ask you to do" Wade almost yelled at her, his voice shaking,
"it will all come out at the reading Wade, "she said softly, putting her glass down and pouring another, "Im tired, so I'll see you then ok, "
With that, she let the phone slip from her ear and placed it back on the marble table.
"Dammit!" Wade hissed, he punched his phone and pressed it to his ear "hi, I have a flight booked tomorrow for California, Im wondering if there are any earlier flights. Let's say tonight?"
The second dessert arrived along with Tys 4th whiskey neat, Amy not happy with the decision but knowing if she pushed him too hard in his current state, the evening was going to end in a place where she was hoping they could avoid.
She shared the dessert with him, more of a way of keeping him connected to her, and under the premise that if he was eating, he wasn't drinking.
"I told you I'd only get a mouthful" he grinned, accepting one more spoonful of the luscious dessert that Amy guided into his lips and on to his mouth,
"hey I'm sharing, "she whined, giving him a cheeky smile, her eyes flickering to his hand as it encircled his tumbler. "I think you should have the rest, "
He shook his head, swallowing the mouthful he already had, feeling a little queasy, orange and chocolate wasn't mixing well with the whiskey.
"No, honestly Amy, its all yours, I couldn't eat another bite," He swallowed again and Amy pushed a glass of water his way, seeing him struggle to clear his mouth of the stickiness.
His green eyes watched her, realizing what she was doing, and took the offering, the water cleaning his mouth as he emptied the glass.
"thank you," he said softly, his expression one of resilience, as his hand still held the whiskey tumbler, his fingers spinning the glass slowly in his grip.
"It's getting late Ty, maybe …"Amy asked again, the effects of the amber fluid were starting to tell in Tys eyes, they seemed glassy and far away, with a very slight hint of defiance running through them.
"you had enough of me already?" he asked, his smile only small, Amy could see there was hidden fear the in the question, like he was testing the waters, knowing their evening hadn't gone as he had planned.
"No, No, you just look, um tired, and we have a big day tomorrow and well…." Amy tried to come up with as many excuses as she could apart from the one that was burning on the tip of her tongue. She wanted to leave so she could get him back to the safety of the apartment, where if he did go over the line, at least he was contained. At least Jack was there as back up,
Ty rubbed his face, his hand sliding into his hair and ruffling it up somewhat as his eyes watched the dance floor. The music had sped up and the floor was pretty crowded now, the night goes and clubbers were in, to party the night away. The A list of international young visitors, and local high society. The premises only available to those who were of wealth or stature or attached to someone who was.
He hated the elitism of it all, but the fact remained, that normal restaurants and clubs, were a minefield for him. He couldn't relax, he couldn't be himself, there were looks and eyes on his every move, cameras snapping his every second, his life constantly under their scrutiny.
At least here, he was among to people who dealt with the same things he did in the public eye. At least in here, they sort of understood what it felt like to never just be able to eat and drink and enjoy being a young 18-year-old male, out for a night of fun.
In those moments, Ty felt as alone as he ever did. Even more so than when he was a small child, playing on the Persian rug in his father's study, plastic horses running around in front of him. His father entertaining his assistant with 'important work' in the other room. Their laughter and giggles ignored by the little boy who lost himself in his make-believe.
Or the times on the movie sets, his mother giving him one last kiss as the nanny pulled him back to the trailer, his hand reaching for her as she waved him on, her attention on the next set of lines she needed to say.
That same little boy who hugged his father's leg, trying desperately to get him to look down at him, as the air attendant pulled him towards the gate. His little hands outstretched as his father, the one he loved and needed, turned his back and pushed his phone to his ear. His assistant waving bye for them as the stewards took him towards the single seat, the coloring books, and the loneliness that was his solo trip to his mother.
That same mother that he hoped to see when he was walked down that runway to the gate, only to find a stern older woman who was his nanny, and a bodyguard as his welcome to his home for the next six months.
Those feelings still haunted him, even at 18, that feeling of abandonment and loss traveled with him where ever he went, it tainted everything he did.
Amy was his salvation, but he still held fears inside that she too, one day would grow weary of him as every other relationship he ever held dear did, and leave. It always ended up that way, no matter how hard he held on. It was always ripped away, leaving him wounded and raw. First his home life, then his mother, stolen by Wade, then his father, and now, here he was again, his heart on his sleeve, letting himself feel for the first time in years. And he knew, it also would, had to blow up in his face.
"Ty, "Amy said softly, pulling his attention back to her, his eyes vacantly staring out at the dance floor, "hey, where did you go?"
He shook his head, the haze of the whisky making everything muted, dulling the pain slightly, He gave her a soft smile, and then picked up his glass, looking at the amber fluid,
"sorry, just thinking, "he mused, "I should stop doing that, It gets me into trouble"
He swirled the liquid around in his glass, transfixed by the way it moved. Amy becoming more and more concerned by his behavior by the second.
"Well, I'm tired, "she announced, deciding to take the lead, her subtle hints didn't seem to be working.
"ok, ok, "Ty finally agreed, as he got to his feet, grabbing his leather jacket from the back of his chair and struggling with it as he pulled it on. She could see he was under the influence with the way he stood and had to use the chair to steady himself.
Amy got up, grabbed her jacket and came to his side, not wanting to make it look like she was supporting him. But knowing they weren't going to make it to the door if she didn't.
Ty gave her a smile and then turned, grabbing his tumbler and gulping down the contents, coughing roughly as it caught his throat, making him hiss with the burn. He then turned back to Amy, gave her a {Im fine} look and wrapped his arm back around her. Amy's scowl of concern crinkling her brow as they skirted the edge of the dance floor.
"Hey! pretty lady!, "the same sandy-hair colored young man called out over the music, grabbing Amy's arm and pulling her from Ty's grasp, he also, now affected by one too many vodka shots. Amy let out a small squeal, her heels slipping as she spun around, her hands grabbing for anything to steady herself from falling, both of them finally landing on Bens shoulders as he took her touch as approval. He pulled her close, and bopped to the music, trying to entice his reluctant partner into returning his moves. Amy pushed back angrily, the music in the middle of the floor seeming louder than what it had been when she was on the edge, the strobe lights making her blink and shield her eyes. Ben gave her a very playful look, dancing before her again, his hands grabbing her hips as Amy once again pulled away.
She tried desperately to find her way out of the throng of bodies and merriment, pushing her way to the edge of the floor, finally stepping off the shiny surface and back onto the floorboards. She scanned the area, not seeing Ty, she had lost sight of him when she had been grabbed. Her blue eyes moved around the people before her, trying to locate him.
"Hey, you're a tease you know that!" Ben said, coming up behind her and taking her arm. Trying once again to pull her back towards the dancing.
"let me GO!" Amy ordered, pulling at her arm, not liking the forcefulness he was exhibiting. It reminded her of another party when another suiter had decided that no didn't mean no. And she didn't want to feel that feeling of helplessness ever again.
"I just want to dance with you, "Ben whined, tugging at her arm again, annoyance filling his eyes at her refusal.
"she said NO!, "Ty growled, finally coming through the crowd and ripping Bens fingers off of Amy's arm, his body now directly in front of her, shielding her from what was to come.
"Fuck off! MATE!" Ben snarled, his lip curling up in aggression at Ty's interference, "this doesn't concern you!"
Ty flew forward, grabbing the young Aussie male by the shirt front and forcibly slamming his chest up against his, his jaw now inches from his target. "touch her again MATE, go on!, I dare you" Ty's voice was rancid with threat as he stood his ground. Amy behind him, trying to pull his attention back to her.
The two medium weights struggled for supremacy on the edge of the dance floor, other party goers now becoming aware of the altercation, with a few of the males in the area trying to intervene.
"hey come on guys, "The waiter said, coming over from the bar area, his dark eyes filled with worry over the escalation. "lets just back off and have a good night hey"
"Yeah, you Canadian dick!, Fuck off back to your maple leaves hey!" Ben jived at Ty, "and take ya little tartlet with ya, "
Ty gave his Australian counterpart an almighty shove, letting go of his shirt as he did, sending Ben stumbling back into the crowd,
"Ty Please! Let's just go!" Amy yelled, pulling his arm, her voice filled with panic now, causing Ty to monetarily lose focus on his adversary and turn back to check she was ok.
That moment, when his eyes left Bens vicinity gave the sandy-haired aggressor his opening, he pulled back his left fist and swung it around with all his might, his knuckles connecting with the side of Ty's head near his ear, right on his jaw, and snapping it around violently with the impact,
Amy screamed a muffled scream as Ty lost his footing and staggered backwards, his hand reaching up to his jaw and wiping away the blood that dripped from his mouth, he leveled himself out, his eyes a piercing green as he spat the remainder of the blood to the floor, his hair now in his eyes as he stood back up straight.
Ben looked triumphant until her saw Ty straighten and flex his fists, the look in his eyes made Ben suddenly rethink his challenge on this ring in from the land of the Maple leaf.
All the air seemed to be sucked out of the room for Amy as everything moved in slow motion from that point on. She saw Tys eyes narrow as Ben came forward again, his bravado and courage overstepping his sensibility, He swung at Ty again, but this time, the well-seasoned scuffle king ducked and it cleared his head easily, leaving Ben open for a counter which Ty happily obliged with. His fist tightened and he swung, connecting with the others young man's Jaw, the sound reverberating around the room as the Music suddenly stopped. Amy reached for Ty as he charged, his body barreling into Bens and they fell into the crowd of shocked onlookers, fists flew, punches connected, arms and legs grappled as they fought like street dogs, both fueled by the alcohol and anger inside them.
Amy staggered back, knowing there was nothing she could do, it was too far gone for her to stop alone now. The barkeep ran to the bar, Amy seeing him grab a phone, and she instantly went into defense mode, chasing after him and begging him not to call the police.
"Im sorry miss, but I cant have this, not here, we have a reputation you know, "
Amy looked back at the two men, still scrapping with each other, no end in sight, Ty now on the bottom as Ben delivered one and then another shot to his kidneys. She saw Tys face screw up as he swallowed the pain. His hands pushing with all his might to gain the upper hand.
Amy ran back to the table and grabbed her phone, pushing it to her ear, her eyes back on the spectacle before her. People were fleeing now, running into the other ballroom, leaving the dance floor clear apart for the two young men with a debt to settle.
"Hello,"
"Grandpa!, oh, god, I need your help, Its TY!"
Locky sat in the foyer of the club, playing Tetris on his phone, He didn't hear the noise from inside, as the clubs walls were soundproofed. He looked up as the elevator opened, seeing a rough tired looking cowboy come barreling out into the hall, He looked at the young burly man, all dressed in black and took a breath, noting the insignia on his shirt.
"you Tys bodyguard?" He asked, looking at the large frosted doors before him.
"Um Yes sir, I am, can help you, he's currently dining with a young lady, he asked not to be disturbed"
"Well, son, if you're guarding his body, you're doing a pretty poor job of it because right now, that body is in the middle of a brawl, " Jack turned to the doors seeing the concierge stop him as he approached,
"Im sorry sir, this is an exclusive club, are you on the guest list, "
"Its ok, Costa, "Locky said, coming to Jacks side, "he's with me, "
"very well, " Costa replied, buzzing the door and opening it for the two men who hurried on in.
Amy saw Jacks red plaid coat and Locky's black shirt from across the room. She ran over towards them but stopped when several other men in the mix had now started to swing blows. She saw Ty slowly get up for a second, shaking his head, looking stunned, when another guy grabbed him in a bear hug, pinning his arms as Ben came around and slammed him several times in the stomach, Ty kicked and struggled and broke free. Staggering backward and then charged again, this time his fist landing hard into Bens' ribs, making him double over in pain.
"ENOUGH!" Jack growled, grabbing Ty by the waist and physically swinging him off his feet and out of the throng. Ty, not realizing who the arms belonged too and trying to swing back at his attacker.
"Settle !" Jack yelled, Bringing Ty still struggling in his grasp, as He held him by the waist, Locky also now at Jacks side, putting himself between Ty and his aggressors,
"that's enough gents, "Locky said in a very loud and authoritative voice, The police now charging through the door. People started darting everywhere, trying to make a hasty exit.
"Its time to GO!" Jack ordered, to Ty as his green eyes looked up at him in full on fight mode, Jack seeing something that night in that young man's eyes that scared him.
"LET ME GO!" Ty snarled, trying still to break free, but Jacks grip was too tight, his eyes still on Ben as he wiped his mouth on the other side of the room. His nose bloody his face bruised, The police talking to him,
"we need to go, "Locky said, "Ill square this off ok, but just get him out of here" He looked at Jack who nodded and still struggled to hold Ty at bay. Finally letting his waist go and then grabbing his arm. Ty taking the break as freedom and lifting his fist again, but stopping as Jacks face came into view,
"Ja…aack,"He stammered, finally aware of who was with him. His hand shaking as he let it fall to his side,
"let's go, son, "Jack said sternly, feeling Ty's body go limp as the rage left him. Amy running to his side, the adrenaline spike now wearing off and the whiskey taking its toll.
Tys eyes looked lost once again, Amy feeling him give up, the fight finally gone. As they carried him towards the door between them.
Locky heading for the police who instantly went to stop them.
"Officer, I am with personal security, and I can fill you in on what happened here, "
"oww" Ty hissed as Amy pressed an ice pack to his knuckles, He sat on the couch, his shirt torn, his cheek red and bruised. He pressed his fingers to his left eye, twitching his lip when he did, it stung and there was a ringing in his ear.
"Are you ok?" Jack asked, his voice a little cool, but worried, "do I need to call a doctor?"
Ty shook his head, and instantly regretted it, the room spun as he pulled his hand from Amy and held his head still. "No, I'll live," he paused, as he covered his mouth, "I feel sick, "he breathed.
"I'm not surprised, that kid got you a few times in the gut, " Jack retorted, stalking over to the kitchen and then passing him a plastic bowl,
"you sure you don't want to see a doctor" Amy asked, touching the ice pack to his ear, seeing him wince with pain but then find relief in the cold numbness.
"No, No," he mumbled, "I just need, to,, to, "He pressed his lips again and got up quickly, staggering slightly as Jack and Amy saw him run to the bathroom, the plastic tub fell to the floor as he disappeared.
"How much has he had to drink?" Jack asked, wanting a straight answer,
"too much, I tried to stop him Grandpa, but after the call, he just…. "She looked at her hands, cringing as she heard him vomiting in the bathroom behind them.
"phone call, from who?" Jack enquired,
Amy took a breath, as she pulled off her shoes, "his mom, he spoke to her, "
Jack rubbed his tired face, understanding now why the events had happened, "that obviously went well"
"she's not coming to the funeral or the reading according to what she told TY, "Amy exclaimed, "and as you can see, he didn't take that very well, "
"and the fight? What was that about?"
"that was over me, that guy, who you saw Ty looking at, he grabbed me when we went to leave, just to dance, I had it handled, but Ty just kinda lost it when he wouldn't take no for an answer"
"geezus" Jack sighed, "this is your 17th all over again, no wonder he saw red, " he stalked around the room, hearing Ty coughing and groaning.
"I didn't know what to do Grandpa, he just spiraled, and then when I finally convinced him to leave that idiot went and grabbed me, and it all just went out of control, "
"you did the right thing, Amy, "Jack soothed giving her a hug and trying to console her, He looked towards the door. His eyes filled with regret,
"Grandpa, what's that look for, " Amy asked,
"Im just thinking that we may have bitten off more than we can chew with this kid Amy, he's not stable, I know I know, it's not his fault, but, I worry about you being around him, and being so close, "he saw her look of disbelief, not believing what she was hearing, "don't look at me like that, I just worry about you, he's like a powder keg, and I 'm starting to think that maybe you need to ….."
"Don't you dare say it, Grandpa!" Amy cut back quickly, "Because you won't like the answer I give you, Im not now or ever turning my back on him, every person he's ever loved or opened up to had abandoned him, turned their back when all he's ever wanted is to be loved. I will not do that to him as well, and neither should you,"
Jack looked at his granddaughter, a smile of pride filling his old eyes, she was her mother's daughter, and he loved her for it, But he would have been lying if he wasn't worried about her relationship with Ty, the deeper it got, the more he would impact on her. And Ty was unstable, at the very least troubled. This was not how he wanted his granddaughter to live her life, playing defense for her hot-headed boyfriend. She was right though, Ty had been abandoned by every main stakeholder in his life, and he carried the scars to prove it. He needed help, and Jack new, now, after seeing that look in the young man's eyes, that help was way beyond Amy or himself. He rubbed his tired face, and ruffled his mustache, once this was over, the funeral, the reading, he had decided to help that young man, whose head was currently in the toilet regurgitating a night of regret, even if it meant taking him personally to someone more qualified to handle his issues.
Amy walked over to the kitchen and poured herself a glass of water, thinking to herself that their plans for a perfect last night, were now far from reality. She turned when she heard a sniff at the bathroom door, Jack also looking over to see a rather pale Ty leaning in the door jam, his eyes half closed, a towel to his mouth.
"you ok," Jack asked, seeing and knowing the answer was going to be negative.
Ty swallowed, and shut his eyes, pressing the towel to his mouth with more force, as Amy watched his stomach heave again, his free hand dug into the door jam keeping himself upright,
"Ja….ack, " Ty finally whispered, Amy, watching the old cowboy slowly go over to the young man's side, his eyes filled with concern" I ….I ….I think I may,,,…. Need that doctor after …all" TY said in a voice so filled with fear that Jack instantly slid his arm under his shoulder taking his weight,
Amy now moved at lightning speed as well, coming to stand before him as TY pulled the towel away from his mouth and handed it shakily to her. Amy taking it and rolling it over in her hands, seeing the white terry toweling was stained with vomit and a little too much blood to not be worried about.
She looked back at Ty as Jack felt him slip slightly, his skin pale and clammy as he swallowed and turned his eyes to his mentor.
"there's blood, Jack, "he whispered, his eyes flickering back to the toilet. Amy seeing his stomach heave again and his face contorted with pain. She instantly pressed the towel to his face and Jack guided him to the couch where they both laid Ty down, Amy seeing his grazed knuckles now holding his stomach.
"I'll call the front desk, and exclusive place like this has to have an on-call doctor or something," Amy said, grabbing the counter phone and pressing the buttons.
Jack watching her as Tys eyes closed and he succumbed to the peace unconsciousness brings.
to be continued.