A/N: Sorry for the delay guys, busy work schedule, had to help my son move into his new home with his girl and right in the middle of planning my daughters 18th. SO hectic, !. so I hope theres not too many grammar mistakes as I rushed the spell check to get this up for you.. More to come. on holidays now so more time to write, Thanks for the support = love ya all!.

Chapter 36

Sunday came quietly at Lucky Montana, Ty rose, showered, packed his things and gave his room one last look as he headed to Amy's suite., his duffle slung over his shoulder as he turned the door latch and went inside. He had learned through experience to travel light, living out of a suitcase had made him accustomed to the art of not needing too many things to survive from day to day. Ty smiled and put his bag on the settee as he saw Amy come in from her room. Her bags also secured and ready to go.

"Hey, "she said, coming over to him and leaning in to kiss his cheek, Ty giving her a gentle smile in return.

"you ready to go, "he asked, taking her suitcase from her and placing it next to his, Thomas said we leave around 11 for the airport, "

"Yup, all set, "Amy replied, happily, Ty noticing his trinket around her neck as she walked over to the large French doors. "We ordered breakfast, you want to share?"

"that would be awesome, "Ty replied, coming to stand behind her, his hands tentatively threading around her waist. "I missed you last night"

Amy couldn't help but smile, he seemed calm and affectionate, his attempt to flirt with her noticed and appreciated. She snuggled her back into his arms, loving the feeling of them wrapping around her. Hoping that this day, the day they headed home, would bring some healing for him.

"I missed you too, "she whispered, looking up into his eyes and seeing the sparkle in them.

Ty bent down and kissed her neck, snuggling into her a little more, his eyes only darting up when he heard someone clear their throat behind them.

"Good morning, "Jack said, his eyes brow raised as Ty coughed and stepped away from Amy, looking like a cat with his paw in the cream.

"Hey Jack, "he said softly, coming over to him and offering him his hand, he knew Jack was ok with him dating Amy, but he had the deepest respect for this old rodeo legend and that was enough to make him toe the line.

"did I hear someone say something about breakfast?" Jack asked, giving him a wry smile as he shook his hand warmly.

"Yes grandpa, I called the kitchen, they said it would be up soon, "she stopped and looked at Ty, "I wasn't sure if you'd want to eat in the main dining room or…"

"up here is just fine" Ty smiled, secretly pleased Amy had not pushed to go downstairs. The idea of sharing a table with Wade and his mother was not something Ty wanted to even contemplate. After his words with Lilly in the study the night before, the more distance he could put between himself and his mother, was fine by him.

There was a knock at the door and Jack walked over to take the tray that was offered to him by the kitchen girl, she smiled politely and gave a little curtsy before scurrying back to the kitchen.

"smells good," Jack said as he carried it over to the table that sat in the middle of the airy dining nook.

It was of circular design, with 4 high backed, old world vintage chairs. Surrounded by large clear paned glass windows that looked out through the trees and practice rings in the distance.

They all sat down, and Amy pulled her chair closer to Tys, sharing her plate with him, the serving more than enough for two.

Once they were done, and suitably satisfied by their offering of fluffy scrambled eggs, fresh wheat toast with butter curls and orange segments with pomegranate coolie they packed up the tray and Jack poured them all a coffee. His nose once again twitching at the aroma as it wafted out of the coffee pot.

"so, Jack, I bet your well and truly ready to get back home hey," Ty said, sipping his coffee, hearing the older gent gruff and nod. "I think you've traveled more in the last few months since you met me than you ever have before"

"you wouldn't be wrong there" Jack agreed, "this jet-set lifestyle is not for me, I don't know how you do it"

TY grinned, "sort of comes with the territory, you tend to get used to it, like most things that you're forced to endure," Ty's smiled faded, his face becoming still as his thoughts went to a darker place unexpectantly.

He looked up, seeing Amy and Jack watching him and forced a smile, trying to show them he was ok, "but hey, the frequent flyer miles are great"

"So, you two ready to go?" Jack asked, seeing them both nod,

"Im actually happy to be going myself, "Ty said with a gentle smile, "this has all been rather full-on the last few days, so it will be good to get back to,,,,, um…. You know, gain some perspective,"

Jack nodded, sending a warm smile Ty's way, "it's your home too, it always will be, "

"Thanks, Jack, that means a lot to me, "Ty replied, "I think of it that way now too, "he looked around his surroundings, "this used to be home, but now, well it's just an empty house, filled with nothing more than memories of a life I didn't really own, "

"then why are you going to…" Amy stopped, seeing Ty's glance at her, stopping her from continuing. He hadn't told anyone, least of all Jack about the prospect that he would most likely have to return to Montana and live there for a while, if not permanently when he took over the company. It wasn't something he had come to terms with yet himself. The idea of leaving Amy and the first family he felt accepted with tore at him. Making him feel like he was once again having the thing he loved the most taken away without being able to stop it.

"Well, you two, Im going to go finishing packing up and then I'll meet you in the main room downstairs around elevenish. "Jack cut in, not sure as to why Ty had cut Amy off, but not wanting to get involved.

"we might go for a walk, "Ty said, "it's early and the lake is beautiful in the morning light, "his eyes fell to Amy looking for approval, her smile answering his question.

"well, be careful ok, remember what I said, "Jack warned "stay together, "

"yes, grandpa" Amy replied as she watched him go back into his room, shutting the door behind himself.

Ty turned instantly to Amy and looked deep into her eyes as his hands took her shoulders, "please don't say anything to Jack about me coming back to live here, "he pleaded, "not yet, it's not set in stone, so I don't want to have to deal with all

the questions and worry he will toss at me. "

Amy dropped her gaze, not happy with keeping silent, as she knew Jack would not like the idea either. Not with him already thinking that the people involved with the business were risky and not to be trusted.

"Im sorry, but I don't think you should…." she started,

"Amy please, it's not decided yet ok, "Ty reprised, "we said we wouldn't worry about it until it happened, I don't want to spend the next six weeks with you pouting at me for even considering it"

His voice was a little tense now, not liking the pressure he was feeling, "It's just a possibility, that's all, please can we just forget I even mentioned it."

"Ok, OK," Amy said sourly, moving away from him, with Ty grabbing her arm to stop her.

"come on, please, let's just enjoy our morning before we have to get back on that plane hey, "he asked. Giving her the best Borden smile he could muster,

"Fine," Amy grumped back to him, letting him thread his arm though hers as they walked out the door together.

They spent the rest of the early morning down by the lake, Ty showing Amy the small boat shed where he took one of the wooden row boats down from its rack and took her out onto the beautiful deep blue waters. The early morning sun sparkling across its surface as the ripples caught the suns rays. Ty rowed the boat out further, letting Amy sit back and watch him, her arm nonchalantly over the side with her fingers slipping through the water as they floated along. This was perfection, Amy thought to herself. the sun, the water, the peacefulness and the sight of a rather handsome Ty as he rolled his shoulders with each stroke of the ores.

Amy couldn't have been more content, more at peace, more in love. It was a feeling she never wanted to lose.

They returned not long after 10:30 am, grabbing a quick drink in the kitchen, Amy chatting to the young girl who worked the house shift. She was not more than 16 and looked to be Spanish by origin.

"Ty, Amy, "a voice said as they both turned from the breakfast counter and saw Thomas round the bend, bags in hand.

"Thomas, "Ty said, he was wary but willing to give the man the benefit of the doubt. His dad had trusted him enough to entrust Lucky Alberta to him to manage so Ty was willing to back his father's judgment.

"The car will be brought around shortly, are you two ready to go," he asked, placing his bags on the floor near his feet and the house staff came and quickly took them towards the front of the house.

"There's been a slight change in plans, "a voice cut in quickly, Amy recognizing it but not believing her ears.

"Dad!" she exclaimed as she turned to see Tim Fleming all-round cowboy 4 years running standing just inside the large front doors to Lucky Quarters Montana. He looked tired but glad to see his daughter, Amy not able to contain herself as she ran over to him and hugged him, loving the feeling of his arms around her.

"hey wow, I missed you too" Tim grinned, his eyes moving to Ty who gave him a friendly nod. Ty and Tim although respectful of each other's role in Amy's life hadn't really gelled much past the occasional handshake and hello, Ty always got the feeling Tim didn't approve of his relationship with Amy, he knew of Tys standing and was one to be impressed by a person's net worth and overall financial value. But his eyes always seemed to be judgmental when it came to his daughter and this blow in from the movie world.

Jack came through the door not long after Tim, seeing Amy pull out of her hello hug, her smile broad and happy.

"what are you doing here?" Amy asked, looking at Tim who subsequently looked at Jack.

"Ask your grandfather, he called me and said to get my but down here, so …. Here I am." Tim smiled,

"well …." Jack started but stopped as he saw Thomas approach them, his expression friendly although a little confused.

"well, I have heard a lot about you Mr. Fleming, and it's great to finally meet you" he shook Tim's hand seeing Amy's father flick Jack a wry smile. "but I think you may have wasted the journey, we are just about to head out to the airfield, we are flying back today"

"Well, Thomas? "Tim said dryly, seeing Jack chuckle at his candor, "it is Thomas right?, that's exactly why I am here, "

He looked around the room, shooting a happy smile to Amy, then Ty and then finally landing on Jack. "Im here to drive you lot back to Heartland"

Amy's' mouth dropped open in surprise, her eyes flicking to Ty who looked equally as stunned.

"that's really not necessary, "Thomas said, now looking a little perturbed, "we have the jet ready to go, Lilly and Wade flew out to New Port earlier this morning, so this flight is headed to Alberta, "

"Im really glad to see you dad, but you and Grandpa should have let us know you were coming, "Amy cut in. "the jets ready to go, I …."

"yes, Amy is right, we are set to go, the car should be out the front now, "Thomas looked worried, Jack picking up on it and realizing that the idea of them not getting on that plane may be a good thing.

"Well, Thomas, Although I appreciate the offer, the idea of being crammed into that sardine tin again, even if only for 50 minutes doesn't really appeal to this old cowboy, I'd rather a leisurely drive through some of the prettiest countryside in the world." Jack gave Tim a well-known look and saw Amy give an understanding smile as well.

"Well Jack, you and your son in law are welcome to take the 3-hour trip but I must insist that TY and I get a move on now, for we only have a small window to get to the airstrip."

Thomas came straight over to TY, giving him a look of comradery, expecting Ty to side with him over Jack.

"Um, Amy? Do you want to fly in or," Ty asked, Thomas, looking even more worried as he realized Ty wasn't making this decision alone?

"I think the drive might be nice, "She grinned, her exchange with Jack a silent one but well thought out. She could see how desperate Jack was to keep TY as far away from Thomas as possible, his fears that something wasn't quite right compacting when he saw Thomas rub his face nervously. Not liking the change in plans.

"Ty, I really think we need to …." Thomas continued his hand on Ty's arm now, trying to turn him physically away from Amy and Jack and train his focus on him.

"Look, Tom, its simple, you go on the plane and we will drive back, we can catch up again once we are home, but, I have to tell ya, I'm amazed this old grump made it all the way to Australia Mate, flying just isn't his thing. "Tim put on his best impersonation of an Australian accent as he could manage.

"Ty, I must insist, this is…" Thomas finally managed to get Ty's eye contact on him, "we have things to discuss, we…."

Ty looked at Amy, not knowing what to do, his eyes finally landing on Jacks as he heard his voice in his head warning him again not to trust people unless he knew for sure they had his back.

"Um, I'm going to drive back Thomas, Amy and I will be fine, you take the jet and I'll call you when we get in ok," he smiled at Thomas, hoping he understood.

Thomas now looked not only nervous but a little sick, his feet walking him around slightly as he tried to save this situation. Unbeknown to Ty and the rest of the Heartland crew, Wade had set up an ambush at the airstrip, as per his boss's directive. It was set in play, all Thomas had to do was get Ty in that sedan and on that tarmac by 11 am.

"I think this is a mistake, "He challenged, "why don't Amy and her family drive back, enjoy the scenery and leave us to talk about Lucky Alberta while we fly in together.

"It's up to you Ty, but Im going with Grandpa and dad, "she rebutted, seeing Thomas give her an annoyed glare,

"well, if that's the case, my decision is easy, "Ty smiled, "if you're driving, so am I"

"Ty, please," Thomas exclaimed, knowing this was going to have to be explained in detail to the Boss and to Wade as to why Ty wasn't where he was supposed to be.

"Sorry, Tom, "Tim chuckled, "you lose, "

Thomas watched in annoyance as Tim loaded the bags from the trio and got back behind the wheel of his truck. Ty giving a hug to the House matron who ran the place when he was a boy and rubbing shoulders with his two friends from school, promising to stay in touch.

He walked back to Amy, sliding his arm around her waist as he pulled open the rear cab door, finally turning to look at a visibly annoyed and anxious Thomas.

"I'll text when I'm back ok, have a safe flight"

Thomas let his head drop, nodding in defeat, knowing that this was unsavable now.

Ty waved to the rest of the ranch staff who had all gathered to watch the future owner and they're soon to be boss leave once more. This time, they all hope though, it was only temporarily. They missed having a Borden at the helm.

Tim turned the steering wheel and then guided the truck around the flower bed and tree bank, heading back down the long winding drive towards the main road. Thomas shaking his head in disbelief and pulling out his phone, he took a breath and pressed the screen, not looking forward to the conversation that was to come.

"what the hell do you mean he isn't flying back!" Wade yelled, he stalled around the airport hangar, his face red with temper as he listened to Thomas explain what had transpired at the ranch.

"I knew that fu… "Wade hissed, his eyes shut as his hand stopped midway through his hair, "that family would cause issues, we should have taken them out of the picture at the start!"

"it's not the end of the world Wade, "Thomas retorted, "I've spoken to the boss and he's given me instructions on how to proceed from here"

"so, care to enlighten me!" Wade snapped back, furious that his ambush at the air hanger where the company jet sat was now off the cards. He wanted to be the one who took Ty down and now, it seemed that wasn't to be.

"well. It's just under a 3-hour drive back to Hudson from Sunburst and I have a feeling they aren't in any rush. So, the boss thinks this is still redeemable." Thomas explained, "we are to fly out to Hudson and wait for further instructions"

"we, he wants me to go to Hudson too," Wade asked, stopping his pacing, "won't that blow my cover? there's no reason for me to be in that two-bit town!"

"you're to stay out of site, "Thomas explained, "The boss told me that there is to be no contact for you with TY or any of the Bartlett or Fleming family members until he instructs it, do you understand"

"so…. What? I just supposed to hide in a meat cellar somewhere waiting for a call! Give me a break!" Wade shut his eyes and smoothed out his ruffled hair, he was angry, confused and now just plain perplexed as to where this was all going. It was simple in his eyes, If Ty was removed, then the money, the holdings and everything that they had all worked for would be either dismantled and sold off or passed onto Lilly most likely. Either way, he won. It was a win-win. Why was it so hard for anyone else to see that the longer they left TY in play, the more dangerous it became for the plan to get messed up.

"No, you to stay at Luck Alberta, in the guest house, it's still under partial construction and is not near the main establishment. You shouldn't be discovered there, "Thomas explained. "look at is as a kind of hiatus before your services are needed"

"And what do I do if Ty or any of the other staff for that matter come to this guest house?" he asked, sounding sarcastic,

"no one will go near the property as it is still in final construction stages, the staff don't even service it yet, and I have put a halt on all contract work there for now. And Ty, well, he will only be visiting the main building and the breeding facility. There is no reason why he would venture down to the guest house or the surrounding accommodation areas. "

Wade chewed his lip, still not convinced, "so we are to just sit back and let him live his life, "

"for now, yes, the boss feels that this sudden move to regroup and take him from us today has shown that they have their guard up. They are suspicious. "Thomas nodded to his driver as he got out of the limo and walked towards the air hanger, seeing Wade standing at the far end of the complex, phone pressed to his ear. "if we leave them be, they will drop their guard and relax, then and only then can we make our move"

He hung up his phone, seeing Wade storm around in a circle before him, Looking more and more agitated,

"it's the best way Wade, "Thomas called, pulling the others attention towards him as he realized he had joined him at the hanger, "and it's what the boss wants"

"well, then, what the boss wants, "Wade snarled, "the boss gets, regardless of how fucking stupid it is! "

"that's right Wade, "Thomas smiled, motioning towards the waiting aircraft that had started to prep for departure.

Tim had made good time back across the border at Coutts and then slowed to enjoy the drive as they cruised through some of Canadas most beautiful and picturesque countryside. The roads had been quite apart from where the roadworks were near the entrance to Sweetgrass. They took the AB4 route all the way up to Lethbridge turning on to AB3 and heading along until they came to Granum.

Happily, back in the land of his birth, Jack looked relieved, He felt a peace as they drove along, Tim pulling up at on AB519 at the start of the small farming town, taking a well-deserved break and fuel stop.

He slowed and came to as top at Jps Petrol and general store, Amy's eyes waking up and flickering open as she rested on Ty's shoulder as she felt the truck stop.

"ok, I need gas, so we have 20 mins to freshen up and get some coffee then its back on the road," Tim said loudly looking at in the rearview mirror at a sleepy Amy and Ty as they started to move.

Jack got out of the truck, stretched his long-cramped legs and arched his back. He yawned and repositioned his hat and he sauntered off over to the small convenience store.

Amy jumped out of the back of the cab into Ty's arms as he gave her a smile, his lips touching her cheek. The sun of the midday making his hair look lighter than normal.

"So, you want food or?" he asked, taking her hand in his and slowly walking the same way Jack had gone.

"I need a bathroom" Amy grinned, pointing to the small outhouse building and leaving his side, her boots kicking up the dust on the dry loose gravel drive.

Ty chuckled to himself as he was her skip off to the ladies' room, and headed after Jack, meeting him at the stores door, they walked in together, Ty heading for the refrigerators at the back of the store, grabbing two cokes and a few bags of crisps and pretzels on his way back to the counter.

They paid and spoke briefly to the attendant, a young girl, no more than 16 who smiled at Ty bashfully, her eyes not able to look away from that custom Borden grin

Ty felt renewed, he didn't realize how much at first but being away from Lucky, and the pressure of what had happened and what was to come was like a breath of fresh air for the young soon to be 19-year-old, Here, he was just some young guy, buying food and drinks for his girl at a truck stop, nothing more. And being anonymous for the first time in ages felt amazing,

Amy caught up with him as he walked back towards the tuck, food, and drinks in hand. She hooked her arm through his and kissed his cheek, seeing the relaxed look and the smile, noting how at peace he looked.

"what did you get?" she asked, ferreting through the bag that he held in his hands.

"Hey, "he laughed, pulling it away playfully, stepping away from her, making her follow and keeping just out of reach. "who said I bought anything for you!"

"oh really, "Amy giggled, chasing him in circles, playing his game, finally grabbing the side of his jeans and preventing him from getting away from her. Spinning him on his heels as she tried to drag in back towards her.

They tussled and played as Tim shook his head at them while he pumped his gas, Jack throwing him an amused smile.

"doesn't look like a kid that's about to inherit the world does he," Tim said dryly,

"he's a kid, regardless of what he has or hasn't got, "Jack cut back, "Im just glad to see him smile again, "

"Well, Im just glad he seems to be completely smitten with my daughter," Tim grinned, his eyes sparkling, "this could turn out to be a rather lucrative deal for all of us, all of us "

"Tim!" Jack growled, looking annoyed, "will you stop looking at Ty and only seeing dollar signs, Amy's not with him for that!"

"I know, know, she loves him, I get it, But Jack, come on, that kid there, is going to outshine the Stanton's in a few weeks' time. You can't tell me that you don't want this for Amy, this could set her up for life!"

"I want Amy to be happy, money or no money. And If he makes her happy, then that is all that matters." Jack snapped back, his voice lowered as a smiling Amy and Ty came back to the truck, looking a little out of breath from their little game of cat and mouse.

"You two ready to hit the road," Jack asked, giving Tim a rebutted smile,

"Yeah Jack, "Ty said back as he pulled the cab door open and Amy climbed back inside, He turned to Tim before he went to follow her, his hand passing her the bags of supplies. "thanks for this Tim, coming all the way to Montana to get us, "

"no worries Ty, happy to help "Tim smiled back, hanging up the bowser nozzle, "Jack told me the reading went well, "

Jack rolled his eyes and glared at Tim from the passenger's side of the truck.

"um yeah, I suppose, "Ty replied, "There's still a few things to sort out but yeah, you could say it went well,"

"Son, I'd say more than well, it's not every day a young man gets told he is about to inherit a fortune!" Tim laughed, "I think well, is an understatement!"

"ok, well," Ty stammered, not liking the way Tim was holding the monetary side of things in front of him, he had happily pushed all that pressure aside since they left Sunburst, and now Tim's questions were bringing it all back to the surface again. "yeah, it's a lot of money, and responsibility, but Im trying not think about it right now, anyway, it doesn't really affect me until Im 19, and, that's not for a few weeks yet." Ty looked down trying to end the conversation, Jack noting his change in demeanor and stepping in.

"let's just get back on the road, I told Lou we would be home mid-afternoon, "

"Ok, OK old man, Im on it, "Tim retorted, "I just thinking logically, burying your head in the sand isn't going to make this go away you know Ty, you're going to be a wealthy man, you're going to wield a lot of power once you take this company over. If I were you I'd stop worrying about whether or not you're of age and get a game plan in place!" his eyes watched Ty as he saw him take a breath, Amy now looking out of the open door, wondering why he hadn't followed her inside.

"Thanks for the advice Tim, But I think I'll just stick to the plan my father set up, it was his company after all, and well, It's not like Im alone, I'll have help," Ty countered, he didn't sound as convincing as he wanted, but he hoped it was enough to placate Tim and his questioning of him.

Tim shook his head, not surprised at all by the uncertainty in the young man's voice.

"you don't have a clue do you kid, this is all still fun and games for you!" he snarked "how can you stick to your father's plan! he's dead, there is no plan! all he did was set up a set of rules until you reach the magical age of ownership and then boom! you're a multi-millionaire,! How is that a plan! "he straightened his hat and let a sarcastic laugh pass his lips. "and who's this help you keep saying you have? From what I can see, you can't trust any of them, wake up kid! this is your reality now, it's about time you cowboyed up and faced it!"

"Tim" Jack yelled, now standing on the trucks door rail, not looking happy at all, "will you go and pay for the gas and get a move on!"

Ty's eyes now looked at the ground, his smile well and truly gone as he climbed into the back seat, Amy touched his cheek, which he quickly pulled back from, Ty looked out the window and rested his elbow on the door frame, his hand across his chin as he rolled his lip.

Tim returned to the truck and they headed out turning left onto AB 2S and heading for Charesholm, Amy noting the happy go lucky Ty who had started this journey had now been replaced with the quiet, over thinking version who kept his green troubled and apprehensive eyes on the road and scenery beside them.

"Ty," she said softly, her father's county music CD making their conversation unheard by the two occupants in the front seat. "don't listen to my dad, he's…..."

"he's right," Ty said softly, as he turned his head back to hers, "I am about to become this huge thing and I have no idea how to act or what to do or who to trust, "

"you will figure it out, "she soothed, touching his arm and trying to make the worry leave his eyes. "we will figure this out, you are right, you're not alone, you have me and Grandpa and Lou and even Tim if you want, "she gave him a forced playful smile, trying to get him to see the humor in it if Tim became an advisor to him.

"I know, But I still don't know what Im doing Amy, " Ty whispered, loving her for being supportive, "I don't know what dad was thinking, leaving all this responsibility to me, I can't do this!, " He rubbed his face, looking even more worried" maybe I should just not turn up, let them sell all of it and ….."

"Ty, you don't mean that, "Amy replied, seeing Jacks eyes flick her in the rearview mirror, remnants of their conversation reaching his ears. "please, just stop obsessing, you have time, this doesn't have to be sorted now"

"I have 6 weeks Amy, then my life changes, everything I know changes, what I do, what I say, where I live, who Im with, where I go, It all changes, "He took a shaky breath, the fear taking hold now, The sudden realization of what was in store for him hitting home. "I'm not ready for this Amy, I…. I … Im, not a businessman, I …. I can't do THIS!"

Tys eyes flicked back out the window as he sucked the fear inside, internalizing it. Pushing it down deep inside to fester in the pit of his stomach.

Amy squeezed his arm. Her eyes on his distressed face. Her anger towards her father and his reckless comments written all over her features.

"I will help you all I can Ty, we all will" she replied,

TY looked back at the girl he loved, the girl who had captured his heart, who had made him feel for the first time in years. That very girl who had made him want to be loved and needed by another.

He touched her cheek and gave her a soft, yet reserved smile, trying to show her that her words of support did make him feel better. Not wanting her to see the fear and the chasm of self-doubt that ripped through him.

"I love you," he said softly, pressing his lips to hers gently, holding it only for a few seconds. His eyes watching hers, calming her concerns and lulling her into a false sense of security and happiness.

His real feelings well hidden from her as those green eyes looked back out at the racing grain fields as they flew past the windows of the truck.

Amy let her head rest on his shoulder as she took a sip of her drink, hoping she had managed to get through. Hoping she had made him see that she was with him every step of the way.

Her own heart, admittedly not convinced but praying the that he would see that the challenges to come, would be conquered best if they tackled them together.

They arrived at Heartland not long after three in the afternoon, Tim's truck rolling into the parking space in front of the main homestead. Lou came out of the front door, Mallory by her side, looking rather frazzled, there were client cars parked near the barn, staff moving horses and Lisa standing in the main pen giving directions to a rather large man who was unloading some stock that looked to be of the highest quality.

"thank god your home" Lou called, a relieved look in her eyes as she hugged each one individually.

"Lou, you ok, you look a little flustered" Jack asked,

"well yes, Just a bit, we had Scott out this morning, it seems two of the horses the clients brought in have a virus, so I've had to ask for them to be collected until they are cleared, Caleb had to separate our stock in case it's contagious, so I've been short of hired hands while that's being done. I've sent the rest of the hands out to move the heard, which dad was supposed to do, until he jumped ship and headed out after you and well, then there's the couple in cabin 3 who seem to think that checkout means you say you're leaving but don't actually leave!"

She stood looking at the stunned group of onlookers after her tirade, Mallory rolling her eyes and looking away.

"that means, I have guests with horses arriving in an hour and no room to hold them or accommodation to offer! so yeah, it's going just peachy!"

"well, then, I suppose, I better go and see what my wife is up to over there" Jack replied, looking at the rest of them with an amused smile on his face.

"oh well, that, that's another story, those horses, they come from Lucky, and Lisa is keeping them here because she had some repairs going on in her barn, something about the heating not working!" Lou called back." god knows where we are going to put them since we are at capacity already but hey, who am I to argue, she's married to the owner, Im just his granddaughter!"

Lou's hands where on her hips now, she huffed loudly and headed back to the house, yelling a two catering staff who were standing on the porch watching her in fear.

"so Amy, Tim, Ty," Mallory said softly, "Jack, nice to have you back, I do hope you all enjoyed your little Montana vacation, " she lowered her voice and gave Jack a dirty look, "never mind the fact you left me with a phyco who has been like that since you took off on your little joy ride adventure"

Tim had started handing the others their bags, and Amy glared at the little blonde as she saw Ty's smile fade as he threw his bag over his shoulder and turned to walk off towards the barn,

"It was hardly a joyride Mallory," Amy cut back quietly, "it was a funeral so just stop ok!"

Mallory folded her arms, seeing her mistake, but persisted anyways, she was over being bossed around by an over rambunctious ranch owner with a commando organizing complex.

"Well, at least you got away, spent some time in an amazing ranch house so Lou tells me, meanwhile I was here dealing with her!"

"Yes, it was a beautiful ranch, but trust me it was no holiday, "Amy replied, seeing TY stop and watch as Jack headed towards Lisa who noticed her husband and came quickly over to him.

"Oh Ty, my dear, Im so sorry, "Lisa said, coming over to the now rather reserved TY and giving him a gentle hug, "Jack kept me in the loop, are you ok, "

"I'm good, "he said softly, he'd always liked Lisa, she had never judged him or shown him anything but kindness since he arrived. Somehow feeling her warm welcome made him feel safe inside. "glad to be back, "

"yes, um, ok, well, "Lisa said suddenly looking at Jack who also looked a little confused, "the loft, is um, occupied, yes, " she stopped let out a small laughed and took a breath before she explained, "we have a client couple in there at the moment, only for a few days, we are at capacity at the cabins and well, with his virus thing, and the heating issue at Fairfield, We seem to be a little overbooked."

Ty looked at Jack, and let an ironic chuckle escape his lips, "so …. there's nowhere for me to …" he looked away, all he wanted was to feel like he was home again, like he used to when he had stayed in the loft, and now that had been taken from him too.

"Oh, heavens no, "Lisa smiled, "I've made you up a room in the main house, it's at the far end past Lou's, it's not a loft but it's still nice and its only for a few days. "

Jack tapped Ty on the shoulder, "you go make yourself at home,"

Ty rubbed his chin, looking back at the main house, he had liked the loft because it was fully separate giving him a little privacy and distance. He loved the family, all of them, but he was used to being independent and looking after himself. Having people so close and being part of a family unit was foreign to Ty, even at Lucky, he had distanced himself, not deliberately, but it was what he was used too. His entire childhood was spent either being shipped around with nannies or assistants or being placated by his non-responsive parents. His parents not doing the normal family thing even when they were together. There were no family meals, no family time, it was meetings, movies, and acquisitions, With the occasional tap on the head or new toy or pony, or car or motorbike as he got older flung his way as compensation. Having a family unit like the Bartlett Flemings had was completely new to Ty, they all cared about each other, they had meals together, shared their time together, and were there when they needed someone or something. Although Ty wanted this, and to a certain point had become used to it since he got to Heartland, He had loved the attention when he had stayed in Amy's room after his fight with Jesse, but that was only short term, and he had to admit, even then, he felt more at home when Jack walked him back to the solitude of the loft. He still relied on that independence, a time to find himself and be alone. Being alone was normal. And Ty needed normal more than ever right now.

"I don't want to intrude, I can stay at a hotel in town, "he suggested, "or I can, um, go over to Lucky, I'm sure they have a room I could use,"

"No! "Jack said quickly, that idea being the worst one yet, He didn't want Ty anywhere near Lucky or Thomas or anyone else from that establishment alone. He still had concerns for Ty's safety and until he knew they were unwarranted, he wasn't letting that young man out of his protective gaze. "no son, your family, and you can have the room in the house, It's the larger one, at the rear, you'll still have your own space and I promise, its only for a few days. "

Ty nodded, accepting the offer, although still not exactly comfortable with it,

"you go with Amy, and she will show you the way, "Jack said, seeing Amy was watching them from the porch. "go, gone on, its ok, I need to talk to my beautiful wife for a moment"

Ty smiled and gave an appreciative grin, turning and heading back towards the main house, his duffle over his shoulder.

"is he ok," Lisa asked soflty,

"yes and no, "Jack replied, "a lot went on in Montana and I don't think we have seen the last of it myself. "his eyes watched as Ty caught up to Amy and explained the change in plans, Lisa smiled as she saw Amy's obvious delight at the idea of Ty being under the same roof for a few days.

"you said he got nearly everything," Lisa asked,

"yep, the whole Empire becomes his as soon as he turns 19, "Jack confirmed.

"that's a huge responsibility for such a young and inexperienced boy, "

"I know, I know, "

"we have to help him, Jack, he can't even imagine how hard it is to run a business, let alone something the size of Lucky Holdings, it will swallow him whole!" Lisa looked concerned. "Fairfield is nowhere near the size of that venture and it takes all my time!"

"there's more to it Lis, "Jack said softly, "I've got a feeling there's a lot more going on in the background that no one is aware of. And that kid is the key to all of it. "He rubbed his mustache. Looking worried,

"you're not saying, you look worried Jack, what's going on?" she asked, taking her husband's arm in concern,

"I don't know Lisa, and that's what's scaring me, I did some digging myself when I was in Montana, spoke to a few people, asked a few questions. You know, getting a feel of how it all works, how it's all put together, and there's something that just doesn't sit right for me. There are these gaps in the way it all fits and works. "he looked Lisa in the eyes, his concern now written all over his face, "no one there, in my opinion, is trustworthy or is looking out for Tys best interests. No one! "

"You can't mean that Jack, it's a family business, some of those people have known his since he was a child!" Lisa challenged

"that's just it Lisa, the only one I got a positive vibe about was this Louis guy, and he's away on vacation. The others, it's just wrong, I know I shouldn't judge, but it's just a feeling I get, it's a feeling that won't go away, and after what happened at Lucky, he's just not safe, I know it"

Jack let his concerns finally come out, he had been holding them inside until he returned and now, with Lisa beside him, he could share how he truly felt. His concerns for Ty were warranted, he knew it, but he had no proof of wrongdoing apart from Wade and his part he played in his confrontation with Ty. But Jack knew, deep down in his gut, it ran deeper than that. There was something going on that was more sinister than any of them realized.

"you're talking about Wade, and what he did," Lisa said softly, "did Ty report it, he should have, that's assault Jack, and …."

"no, He didn't, and he won't, "Jack said dryly, "this has been going on for years Lisa, and until he's willing to do something about it, all we can do is support him. "

"Oh Jack, this is so wrong, "Lisa's eyes teared up as she felt for Ty, "that man is going to get away with it, what he's done, it's just not right" she shook her head in disbelief, "his mother, she could report him, if it's been happening for years, she could stop this, she should stop this!"

Jack shook his head, looking even sadder again, "she's no help at all Lisa, she's in denial, when this all came out, she backed Wade, without a second thought for her son, "Jack looked angry, knowing how unjust this was. "Amy told me she's not much better herself, in the way she's treated him "

Lisa covered her mouth in shock, her face etched with disdain "no! you're not saying she also…. oh my …. this is horrible, that poor boy!"

Jack hugged her, seeing how much this was affecting her, Lisa had never had children of her own, but her maternal instinct was strong. The thought that a child was abused by not only one parent, but both was horrific for her. She looked up at her husband, the determination of a lioness in her pale blue eyes.

"we need to protect him, Jack, that boy needs to know he has family who love him and who will stand by his side, regardless of how much power or money he holds. We must Jack, I can't bear to see him face all this alone"

"you Lisa Stillman, are an amazing woman, and its comments like that that make me love you more than you can possibly know" Jack smiled, seeing her strength. Seeing her protectiveness for Ty and what he had to endure in the past and what was to come.

"he's family Jack, "she said softly,

"and family stick together, "Jack replied, kissing her softly. Those lips, he had missed since he boarded that tiny sardine tin of a plane.

"so, this is your room" Amy smiled as she opened the door to the large guest room at the end of the bedroom corridor towards the rear of the main house. It had been built on to the original house when they upgraded and renovated to accommodate the larger facility and requirements when Lisa merged Fairfield with Heartland.

Ty walked in after her, dropping his duffle on the ground and looking around the spacious guest room. It had a large double bed, made from sold wood, county style with a dresser, side board and bedside in the same rustic wood look. There were fresh towels on the dresser, a mirror, and a large soft leather armchair. Fresh flowers sat on the sideboard, and the bed was made in white linen and a patchwork quilt. An old-style desk was in the far corner, with stationary and a small TV screen.

TY noticed his personal items that he had left in the loft had been placed on the dresser top, they included a few toiletries, his father's laptop and a box of miscellaneous things. On the chair hung a few suit bags containing his dress clothes that he had not taken with him to Montana.

"you know the best thing about you staying in here, "Amy smiled, as she watched him look around the room. He turned to look at her, a small smile playing on his lips. A look of curiosity in his eyes. "well, my room is just down the hall, "

Ty chuckled and shook his head, "and Lou's room is right in the middle of us" he replied,

"Lou isn't a light sleeper when she's out, she's out, "Amy grinned at him, her eyebrows raising with the suggestion.

Ty gave her a cheeky smile and sat on his new bed, bouncing on it gently, testing it out, it squeaked slightly making him laugh and look at her. His eye brow now raised too.

"ok ok, so there's a few obstacles, "Amy agreed, coming over to him and sitting next to him. Seeing his eyes look towards the window that looked out of the back pastures.

"it's only for a few days, "She said, "once the clients are gone, you can have your loft back"

"it's not my loft, "Ty corrected, "none of this is mine, not really "

"TY, please, don't be like that, you are part of this family now, this is your home," she said softly. Touching his cheek and pulling his face to hers.

He gave her a soft smile and lent in and kissed her lips, seeking the reassurance. Needing to feel that connection that made him feel whole.

"erm!" a voice said from the door, spoiling the moment, making Ty pull away and look towards the interruption.

"Mallory!" Amy cut in quickly, not happy the youngster had disturbed her moment. "you really need to learn how to knock!"

"well, the door was ajar and since this was supposed to be my room, I kinda thought it was …"

"your room?" Ty asked, standing up and now looking like he really was out of place, "they said this room was free? I …...I"

"Ty, it is free, Mallory only uses it when she occasionally stays over if she works late, but she has her own room, at her own house! And she can use that until you get the loft back!" Amy explained, her blue eyes glaring at Mallory,

"Yes, yes, it's true, I only stay now and then, I suppose I can …." Mallory agreed.

"there's no supposing Mallory! until the loft is free, this is Tys room and you need to learn some room etiquette, like knocking and waiting to be invited in!" Amy's words stung the little blonde as she turned away, looking annoyed,

"Lou said there's a late lunch out if you're hungry, it's on the dining table "Mallory called back over her shoulder as she sauntered away. He blond hair dancing down her back as it moved as she walked.

"Amy I…" Ty went to protest, looking at his bag and feeling like an intruder yet again, "Maybe it would be best if I just g…."

"No, you are staying here ok, and that's the end of it!" Amy said clearly, pulling him back down onto the bed beside her and pressing her lips to his to seal the deal.

to be continued