Chapter 37
It was a week later that Amy started to really grow suspicious of Thomas and his interactions with Ty.
He never let a day pass without some form of contact with him. Be it a spontaneous drop-in or a phone call, a text message or a summons to Lucky. These impromptu visits and calls also seemed to always result in time away from her for Ty, the reason being mostly according to Thomas, she would get bored, it was simply business discussions or he would convince Ty that Amy would be better off dealing with her own clients and work that wasting time as his tag a long girlfriend.
Amy had tried to bring it up with her now pre occupied boyfriend, but Ty always played it down as Thomas thinking of them and just being proactive and thorough, helping Ty prepare himself for what was to come. When it came to Thomas, Ty seemed to have developed a blind spot, and no matter how hard Amy tried to convince him otherwise, she never seemed to achieve much more than putting their own relationship at odds.
Amy had spoken to Jack as well, trying to voice her concerns, and although Jack felt the same, he knew how pushing Ty would only make him dig his heels in deeper. He knew that in Tys eyes, he felt he was doing the right thing, be it manipulated or misguided, so forcing the issue wasn't going to make him bow to their concerns. He was so caught up in doing what his father degreed as his last wishes that he had lost sight of the warnings lights that were flashing all around him.
Jack had also tried to talk to him, in a roundabout kind of way, but again to no avail, only managing to make his young house guest even more defensive and suspect to their intentions. Ty started to think that although Jack and Amy loved him that they too, thought he was not up for the role his father had left him. That they too thought he was a failure in the making and that cut Ty's confidence in himself and his abilities to the core.
This incessant need Ty had to do what his father wanted and abide by the rules laid out to him made it harder than ever for Jack to counteract Thomas's incessant yet subtle influence. Brad had left Thomas to run Lucky Alberta, and in Tys eyes, if Brad trusted him, then that was good enough for him. Thomas was also more than happy to feed this insecurity, building Tys doubts over Amy and Jacks true intentions.
Amy and her Grandfather decided to try one more time to get through to Ty and planned a last-ditch, double hit intervention. It would either put them further at odds with him or finally make him see what a thin line he was walking, and the concerns they had over Tys new found loyalty to Thomas.
Amy sat on the couch, looking nervous, Jack in his favorite chair, to the side of her. Lou had gone out with Scott for the night and Mallory had gone home, With Lisa turning in early, that left the house empty apart from Jack and Amy and the now unsuspecting Ty who emerged out of the guest room at the end of the house and headed down the corridor, pulling his jacket onto his shoulders, his, well Amy's Jeep keys in his hand. (Ty had left the truck in her name, expecting to get his own wheels once his birthday rolled around. Amy happily suggesting that they would share the wrangler until then. Since her repeated attempts to make him take the jeep back fell on deaf ears.)
"Ty, "Jack said as he saw him come into the loungeroom. His old eyes staying friendly and trying to keep the mood light.
"Jack, "The younger replied, giving him a gentle half smile, his green eyes flickering between the two, gentle suspicion crossing his features. This felt oddly like an ambush to Ty, be it a friendly one. So Tys confused look at them gave them an inline to get things started.
"Can we talk, "Amy said, tapping the sofa next to her. Hoping this time, he wouldn't brush her aside like all the other times she had tried to broach this topic with him.
"Um, yeah, ur, I was just heading out, but ok, just for a sec," He smiled, looking a little confused and puzzled. "what's going on?"
"where you off to son?" Jack asked, his voice friendly and curious,
" er. Lucky, Thomas called me and said he had some things to show me, so ….."Ty looked wary now, he saw Amy's expression change at the mention of Thomas's name.
"this won't take long," Jack smiled, "funnily enough, Thomas is part of this discussion, well, his relationship with you and what you're up to lately is anyways"
Jack watched Ty roll his eyes in exasperation and straighten his leather jacket. He looked a little perturbed but respected Jack way too much to openly cross him or reject his request to talk.
"Look, Guys, I really need to go, and this isn't necessary ok, "He pleaded, his eyes now on Amy as she watched him with apprehension in her eyes. "you two really have to stop seeing trouble and demons around every corner!"
"will you just sit for a moment and talk to us, "Jack pushed, Seeing Ty's feet step towards the kitchen and the mudroom door.,
The younger hesitated and looked toward his exit, not wanting to justify his decisions yet again. This was a conversation that seemed to keep reoccurring no matter how hard he tried to close it.
"I appreciate the fact you both want to protect me, I do. "he said softly, "But I think I know what I'm doing and dad told me Thomas was …"
"he didn't tell you to follow him blindly, like some devotee. "Amy cut in, making Tys eyes harden slightly at her tone," in that video he also said that you needed to watch you back!"
"and I am!" Ty threw back, his voice now slightly strained too, "I know what I'm doing ok!"
"Ok, let's just calm down and take a breath, "Jack interrupted, seeing the heat between them rising, "Ty please, can you sit down and give us a minute, that's all I asking,"
Ty swallowed and rubbed his forehead, his eyes once again looking towards the door.
"ok, ok, "he whispered, walking over to them and taking a seat on the other armchair, Amy's face dropping when he didn't take her offer of the couch next to her.
"look, we are worried ok, "Jack started, "I know you say we shouldn't be, but you know how I feel about all this, and I have to tell you, something just doesn't sit right for me with that man,"
"Thomas is helping me" Ty explained, trying to keep his voice calm, he loved these two people more than life itself and it was killing him to have them offside. "it's ok, I told you I'm safe with him. He's been really great since I got back, "
Amy went to speak but Jack bet her to it, "ok, what's he been helping you with?, tell us what you're up to, You disappear every day near about, without a word apart from you're going to see Thomas and then that's it, you come back, and nothing … "Jack smiled at him, their eyes on each other now, "we just want to know how it's going, "
"you don't talk about any of this anymore with me or grandpa, "Amy said softly, "ever since we got back you seem to not want us to be a part of it anymore, It's like you have another life that we not allowed to know about, or help you with "
Ty took a deep breath and dropped his eyes to the floor, the carpet pattern holding his gaze as he tried to calm himself, He wasn't mad at her or Jack, but he was frustrated that no matter how hard he tried to convince her. He couldn't get Amy to let this notion she had that something was wrong go.
"I don't say anything because every time I do, this happens, "he looked up and waved his arms around in exasperation, encompassing the two of them. "I get questioned and interrogated about Thomas and how I need to be careful and how I don't know how much danger I could be in. This conspiracy theory you have that someone is trying to do me in! It's driving me nuts!" he stood up and ran his hands through his hair, looking flustered.
"just…. Sit… down, "Jack said dryly, his eyes now looking a little annoyed too over the dramatics, Ty was displaying to him.
Ty chewed his lip and reclaimed his seat, his hands clenched together as he sat on the edge of the chair. He knew he probably overstepped. But he was over being treated like some lost child.
"Thomas is helping me ok, these catch ups we are having are, so I can be ready, "TY explained, his voice now soft and calm.
"helping you with what," Jack said, equally as calm,
"well, you know, the business, how it runs, what needs to be done, how to manage it, contacts I need to know, relationships, buyers … "Ty smiled softly, "He lets me see how the ranch is handled and managed, and the main company to, I need this guys, I have to learn all this before I…."
"you take over, "Jack smiled,
"Yeah, Dad wanted me to run this monster, So I need to know how to handle it," Ty explained. "and Thomas worked real closely with Dad for years, he was one of his lead advisors, so. It makes sense that I learn all this from him"
His eyes were filled with hope now, that he had made them see it his way. That finally they would stop worrying about him so much.
"Wade was your dad's advisor too," Amy said softly, looking at the floor. Her tone low.
She looked up to see Ty sigh and rub his jaw, that cool glint back in his green eyes, "Thomas isn't Wade, he supports me he's helping me. Wade never…"
Ty rolled his lip, his annoyance just under the surface. Being reminded of Wade's part in all of this wasn't needed. In Ty's eyes, Wade was a separate issue and one he had now decided to put behind him.
"he didn't sound very supportive in those emails we read, he basically said you were not worthy, or have you forgotten that, because he's so nice, and he's helping you now "Amy's voice was a little dry and sarcastic now too. She didn't like the coolness in his tone towards her, with her own temper now coming into play.
Ty shook his head and gave a wry smile. "I asked him about them ok, I did, he said at the beginning when Dad suggested that he was going to leave the company to me, Thomas did have reservations about my abilities to take it on. He hadn't seen me in months, he had only seen those stories about me in the press and yes, he didn't think I was worthy as you put it. "he took a breath, his eyes on Amy now, "but that's changed, he's changed, He's on my side now, he thinks I can do it. "he looked at Jack and then stood up again "he has faith in me, and I thought you two did too, but,,, maybe I was wrong"
Ty stepped away from the chair and walked over near the dining table. His eyes filled now with the hurt he felt from thinking that the two people he cared about most in the world didn't believe he could succeed.
"We are on your side Ty, "Jack said, getting up now too, "that's why we are so concerned, "
"I'm sorry Ty but your following Thomas like a lost puppy, you're not learning, you're being lead, he's controlling you and making you see things his way. Why can't you see that!" Amy cut in quickly, now on her feet too.
"He's not controlling me ok!, I still can think for myself, "Ty snapped back, "I can't believe this, Why are you attacking me like this, why now!" he shook his head in disbelief, "he told me this would happen. He warned me that you..."
"who told you what? Thomas "Jack asked, his eyes now a little narrower than before.
TY took a breath and ran his hand through his soft hair, "Thomas said that as time went on, people would try to control me, people would see the money, the power and try to manipulate me, tell me what to do and what to think, who to trust, and and…."
"People?" Jack pushed, "you mean us? He said we would manipulate you? Is that what you're saying?"
Jacks temper was up now too, He realized now that Thomas was more dangerous than he had originally envisaged. He had only been in contact with Ty for a little over a week and he had already started to undermine Tys connection with them. Making him doubt their loyalty to him and replace their council with his own. It also seemed that he had driven a wedge between Amy and Ty. Making Ty doubt her commitment to him and see her concern as a challenge rather than worry and protective concern.
Jack walked over to the young man and took his arm in his grasp, making those green eyes look him directly at him.
"when have we ever manipulated or tried to do anything to you that wasn't in your best interests?" he asked, his voice rough and now challenging. "you are family for gods sakes,"
"I know I know, "Ty stammered back, feeling like an idiot for even thinking it. "I….I…. "
TY looked away not knowing what to say. His head a mess as he tried to pull it all together, Jacks vice-like grip on his arm making him stand still and face the conversation rather than run from it. Ty wasn't good with confrontations, he ran from them, if things got to hard, he bolted, Jacks hand now, was stopping that escape mechanism, and making him face the truth that was before him.
"when has anyone in this family, be it me, Amy, Lou, Lisa, or even Tim done anything that made you think we weren't on your side? "Jack asked, "tell me because as far as I can see, the only one here that seems hell-bent on manipulating you and how you think is Thomas. The fact that he's even suggested we might have an alternative motive speaks volumes to me and it should to you too!"
"Ok, "Ty replied weakly, seeing his mistake, his bravado crumbling, "I'm sorry ok, I don't know what to believe anymore, I….." he pulled his arm free and stepped away, visibly shaken by the realization that Jack may be right, mad at himself for being so easily lead, that even though he was trying to do the right thing, maybe it wasn't right at all.
"I told you he couldn't be trusted," Amy said softly, "but you wouldn't listen to me, "
"I did listen ok!" Ty cut back, his hand now in his hair again. His thoughts all over the place, "I listened to both of you, but you don't listen to ME! I told you I was ok, I told you I can handle it, and that I know what Im doing, but you just keep at me, telling me I'm wrong!" he walked back around to the fireplace, desperation in his eyes as he watched her. Jack seeing him start to crumble, his chest heaving as he sucked air into his lungs, his face strained. This was manic behavior now, he was adrift in confusion and uncertainty, the pressure now becoming too much for him to handle.
"well you are wrong!" Amy said shortly, knowing she should shut up but continuing anyways, Her own frustrations taking control. Jack's warning glare at her going unnoticed. "he's turning you against me, isn't he, he's pulling you away from all of us!, why otherwise would you believe him over us! "
"No!, he ….he said you wouldn't understand, he… he.." Ty lost his words, his mind spinning, His breathing short and fast as his hand reached for his chest, "I…tried to make you see but …you "
"All I see is the guy who says he loves me being controlled by a man who has already shown he can't be trusted, "Amy cut back sharply, "or is that a mistake now too, maybe Thomas told you that you don't love me, or better yet I don't love you?" Amy voice was angry now, her temper letting go.
"NO!" Ty yelled, "why are you being like this! of course, I love you! Nothing anyone says will change that!" Jack saw Ty start to tremble, his face now strained as he continued to pull in shots of air into his lungs. He took a step towards him, but Ty backed away from them, His eyes wild with confusion and anxiety.
"have you ever stopped to consider that maybe, just maybe your precious Thomas is working with Wade, they were advisors together with your dad, right? they both know the company well and how much its worth. They both have had unlimited and unhindered access to the company and your family and YOU! or have your forgotten that too!... has Thomas made you only see what he wants you to see!" Amy let fly at him, her chest was heaving now too, her eyes were damp, and she was furious with TY for not seeing what she felt was as obvious as the manhood on a prize bull.
"he's … NO…. No, it's not like that, he…. he said, " Ty looked around wildly, trying to put it all together, his hand on his chest as his heart thudded. "he's not working with Wade, he….. he …he can't be …. He wouldn't do that to me, He..." He looked around the room, trying in desperation to regain control, his lungs screaming as his head started to spin from the lack of oxygen.
"I …. I… I'm just trying to do the right thing! I can't… this is all such a mess, why ….I can't deal with ,,,,,, I…..I….can't breathe! "
"Ty! "Jack said quickly, coming to his side, watching him struggle, Amy now moving a little forward to, looking worried and a tad guilty for yelling at him, but Jacks outstretched hand held her back , "calm down son, take it easy, breathe" he soothed seeing the panic attack take the younger. Tys face contorted as he turned to lean against the fire place, shutting his eyes trying to focus and slow his breathing down. Jack stood by his side rubbing his back, talking him through the attack until Amy saw Tys shoulders finally relax and his breathing calm, returning to slow deep intakes as he found his centre once again.
"that's it, nice and slow, , "Jack said softly, "you good?"
Ty nodded, his eyes shut as he held onto the fireplace stones, forcing himself to breathe through his nose.
"the problem in TY, how do we really know what Thomas or anyone is up too, ?" Jack patted the young man gently on the back and took his arm again, this time with a softer grip, Ty's green and confused eyes now searching Jacks for answers.
"You trust me, right?" Jack said in a soft whisper,
Ty nodded, swallowing hard, his breathing still a little uneven but calming slightly at the contact.
"have I ever done anything to make you doubt that trust?" Jack continued, "think, and answer honestly"
TY shut his eyes and centered himself then slowly opened them again, he looked at the old cowboy square in the face, "no, never, I…. I trust you "
"And Amy? What about her, "Jacks' voice was soft now. Amy stepping away from the two of them staying near the kitchen door, calming her temper, watching the two men finally come together onto the same page. "you love her, you told me yourself, she's your light, Right? "
TY nodded again, taking another shaky breath, his eyes clear now, "she's my everything, "
"so, why, now, are you struggling to believe and trust those feelings?" Jack asked. "one man has placed a doubt into your mind, and you're letting it grow. Why? You just told me you trust me, and you trust Amy, so …"
TY looked at the floor, clarity suddenly coming back to him. "I don't know, I …he made it sound like if I didn't see it …. I don't know, I don't know who to believe anymore"
"yes you do son, believe and trust in your gut, you know what's right, you always have"
Ty hung his head; his hand covered his eyes. "I can't do this anymore Jack, I can't…. I have no clue what I should or shouldn't do, or who I should or shouldn't listen to. I've got people coming at me from all angles, throwing accusations and demands at me and wanting me to take sides, I didn't ask for this!, I don't want this, "Ty's lip trembled as he looked into those old blue eyes, "I trust you, and Amy, I do, But I'm drowning here jack, and I have no one to save me!"
"You have me, "a soft caring voice came from the sidelines, making Jack smile warmly and Ty quickly turn his head towards it. "and I promise you, I will not let you go under, "
Amy turned to see Lisa standing the doorway to Jacks room. She was in her robe and had obviously been awakened by all the arguing.
"Lis, "Jack smiled, as she came over, giving Jack a gentle kiss and then turned to Ty and placed her gentle hands on his forearms,
"If you let me, I would be honored to guide you through the minefield that is to come. "she said, "I have run Fairfield alone since my parents died, and like you, it was thrust upon me at a young age to manage and own. I was overwhelmed, lost, confused, scared, plane terrified of failing and letting their memory down, just like you. But lucky for me I had an Aunt, who stepped up and mentored me through. If it wasn't for her and her advice. I don't think Fairfield would be anything like it is today. "she smiled at Ty, feeling his shoulders relax, "If you want, and only if you want, I'd like to be that Aunt to you, I will mentor your through, and help you get control of this crazy runaway train."
Ty sucked in a shaky breath, a small tear rolling down his cheek, "you would do that, for me?" he asked quietly, "you hardly know me, Lisa, I… don't know what to…"
"If you say yes, I will be by your side as your business advisor from this moment forward. You would not only have access to my business knowledge but also the full advisory team at Fairfield, I have accountants, lawyers, taxation experts, business contacts, everything you'll ever need to keep your father's legacy going and it's all yours to draw knowledge from, "
"so, son, "Jack said, letting Ty's arm go, seeing the relief in the young man's eyes, "what do you say. You'll not only have the entire Bartlett and Fleming Family at your side but now you have one of the leading horse breeders in Alberta as a business mentor, and trusted friend "he stopped seeing Tys eyes move between them, "all you have to do is say yes, "
"I… I can't ask you to do that, "Ty said in a shaky whisper, looking overwhelmed by the outpouring of support. He had never felt so loved and protected as he did in that moment. This was the hail Mary he had been secretly hoping for.
"You're not asking Ty, I'm offering, and I promise I will only be a mentor and advisor, this is your company after all, and you need to run it in your image, not mine, and just to keep the skeptics at bay who seem to want to make you doubt people and yourself, I will have it all contracted up for you, stating my role and my affiliation to you, that way no one can get crossed wires or miscommunicated assumptions " Lisa smiled, "so what do you say?, "
Ty's eyes moved to Amy who had remained quiet at the kitchen doorway. She was still a little upset with how Ty had reacted towards her, but she gave him a soft smile and a nod, showing him that no matter what had happened between them, this decision was a sound one. And that he should take it.
"Um, "Ty said, his green eyes now back on the beautiful older woman who stood before him. Her face filled with love and compassion for him. "yes, Lisa, my answer is most definitely a yes, "
Two days passed on by and Lisa stayed true to her promise, she drafted up the contact that they both signed in front of her lawyer in Calgary. Making her the lead and solo advisor to Ty Borden so to be owner and operator of Lucky Holdings.
Amy had kept her distance from Ty for the next few days. Not wanting to disrupt the negotiations by ruffling feathers yet again. They were still strong and by no means on the outs, but she just thought a little distance would somehow help them gain some perspective. Amy had clients to deal with and rosters to set anyways, and with Lou overbooking the month she was far from at a loose end.
She caught up with Ty in his guest room in the main house after dinner four days later. It wasn't like they were deliberately avoiding each other, but Ty was away from the property with Lisa most days at Fairfield learning from his new mentor and Amy was holding clinics, so time together for the couple seemed to be at a premium.
She knocked on his door and heard him beckon her in, his green eyes lighting up slightly when he realized it was her. He was laying on his bed, reading a book about Millennium Ranching, his legs crossed at the ankles as he held the book to his chest.
"Hey, I missed you at dinner," he said softly, noting Amy's absence from the table.
"Yeah, we had a BBQ with the clients from the clinic at the dude ranch, you know, meet and greet, get to know the trainers, talk about your horsey problems. "she smiled,
"sounds like fun" Ty grinned, the bed lamp casting a soft yellow glow over his face.
"not fun per say, but the steaks were yum, "she laughed," there's only so many horse problems I can handle in a day, you tend to tune out after the 50th my horse just doesn't suit me comment"
TY laughed and put his book down, his note pad and pen on top of it.
"how was your day, "she asked, a little hesitant to ask him, as those queries usually ended up in arguments.
"it was good, Lisa took me to a meeting she had in Calgary with some buyers, that was fascinating, I never knew there was so much to learn about buying a horse, it's quite in-depth. "
"well. When you're buying at the level Lisa buys, yeah, I suppose it's not the same as rehoming them or buying for trail rides, "Amy agreed,
"no, it's weird, it's all relationships and building contacts and lineage and bloodlines, I have to admit, it was all a little over my head, but still, I think Im learning stuff. "he looked happy and relaxed, making Amy lower her guard too.
"stuff!" she grinned, "you're learning stuff"
"Yes, Stuff, "he laughed back, knowing that probably wasn't the best word for his equestrian education.
Amy came over and sat on the bed near his hip, TY moving over a little, so she could sit next to him.
"um Ty, "she said softly, looking at her hands, not wanting to ruin the light mood but needing to clear the air." we are good right? aren't we?"
She felt him touch her arm, and run his hand up her shoulder, "yes, we are good, "he replied, knowing this conversation was coming.
"You sure, because I got the feeling in the lounge room the other night that maybe we, we weren't as solid as I thought we were," Amy tried to hide the quaver in her tone. But it was easily heard by the attentive TY.
"I need to apologize to you for that," he said in return, "It was wrong of me to blow up at you like I did,"
"no, I was wrong too, I should never have challenged your feelings for me, I …. I just got so mad when you kept taking Thom,"
"Amy shhh. "TY cut in, pulling himself up so he was sitting next to her, "you were right, I was letting outside influences control me. I see that now Since I've been working with Lisa, I can see what a true advisor and mentor is supposed to act, I…... " he stopped, his fingers running down her cheek, a soft smile on his lips, "I don't know if Thomas is part of anything or not, but he definitely was trying to make me cut ties with you and Jack and the family and that I promise, is never going to happen "
"why would he do that Ty,?" Amy asked, "other than for his own gain,"
"I don't know ok, And now I'm aware of it, well, I'll watch and see, "he said, "but please, trust me ok, I know what I'm doing, the only way for me to truly see what's going on is to make him and whoever else is involved think I'm playing the game. "
"TY, that's dangerous, what if he. or …. What if they catch you out, "Amy said nervously
"they won't, trust me. I've got this covered, "he smiled, "I told Thomas I'm taking a break for a few weeks, just to get my head around all of this and what's to come. "
"Oh, what did he say to that?"
"he seemed ok with it, I told him I'd call him in a few weeks and then we could talk handover. But for now, I just need some space, "Ty explained.
"and he bought that? He didn't question your sudden withdrawal, "she asked.
"no, not really, I told him I wasn't going to get to be a kid for much longer, so "TY smiled and gave her a gentle hug "I wanted to have some fun, sew my wild oats so to speak, that kind of thing, "
He gave her a cheeky grin as he saw her mouth drop slightly.
"Sew your wild oats!" she repeated, "and who will you be sewing those oats with then?"
"well" he chuckled, as he nuzzled her neck, kissing her slightly behind the ear, "I can only think of one person"
Amy giggled as his stubble tickled her skin. Ty hadn't really been affectionate passed a quick peck on the lips since they had been back from Montana. She missed the closeness, the contact, and that feeling of butterflies in her stomach when he was close to her like he was now was a welcome return too.
"TY, "Amy breathed. "you sure this is a good idea, we said, we would take it slow, at your pace, I don't want to …."
Amy's mind went back to the times they had tried to share an intimate moment after Wades assault on Ty, they had all ended in disaster and her feeling guilty and him feeling like a failure. She wasn't keen to relive those feelings especially if he still wasn't ready to allow anyone to get that close to him physically.
"Shh, "he whispered, "we are taking it slow, "he said as he continued to kiss her neck, his hand now on her hip and his fingers slid under her top. "slow and steady all the way"
Ty found her lips and kissed her, the kiss holding heat behind it. A heat that she hadn't felt in a while. Amy turned more so she was facing him, her leg now tucked up under her, her hip pressed against his. Ty's legs now behind her back as he pulled her down on top of him. His free hand how running through her hair as he opened his mouth and let the kiss develop more.
Amy felt his fingers run up her back under her tank, her skin prickling with his touch, her hands now in his hair as she followed his lead, TY turned her head to deepen the kiss, wanting the contact to go further, to ignite the fire he knew was just under the surface.
Amy kissed him back, her hands playing with his hair, unsure if they should wander, unsure if she was allowed to. The last time her hands had touched him, he had shied away, the feeling lost. The fears and demons returning and stealing their moment. She hesitantly placed one hand on his shoulder, letting it massage his bicep and shoulder blade, keeping it simple and sweet, fearing her movement, that at any second, he was once again going to pull away.
TY broke the kiss, looking up into her blue eyes as he took a breath, his tongue licking his lips, savoring the taste of the cherry lip balm she wore.
"you ok?" she asked softly, knowing it would either kill the mood or give him an explanation into her wariness.
"I'm more than ok, "he smiled, taking her hand in his and guiding it up under his tee and onto his bare chest, she felt his breath hitch when they came into contact. Her eyes watching him intently as he smiled at her with shaky reassurance. Pleased with himself for making the move.
Amy lent down and kissed his lips again, a simple kiss, but one filled with love and encouragement.
"You sure, we don't need to push this ," Amy asked,
"Shh," he whispered back, his hand still on hers as he slid it down his chest and paused briefly just near the bottom of his ribcage, his lips relocking to hers as he moved her hand onto his abdomen, pushing it down to where his belt buckle sat.
Amy went with him, letting him take the lead, this was his decision, and she wasn't about to take it from him. She felt his lips tightly lock to hers as his fingers guided hers under the band of his jeans tapping them gently and encouraging her to move on her own, his hand then retreating back around her hip and across her behind.
Amy pulled out of the kiss, her eyes watching him closely as he watched her, his breathing a little fast, but controlled, TY gave her a gentle smile, as he sucked in a breath, her hand making him react to her touch.
"its ok, "he said, giving her a nod. "I'm good" he pushed his head back into the pillow as Amy gently moved her hand on his lower abdomen, her body rolling slightly to lay next to him, her leg lifted up and curled over his.
She watched him closely her face inches from his cheek as her hand slid across the soft skin above his pubic line, not venturing further, but allowing him to feel her caress on an area that had only otherwise made him repulse. Ty shut his eyes, a small smile on the corner of his slightly parted lips, his chest expanding suddenly when Amy's index finger traced his scar. She saw him shudder and his expression change slightly as he exhaled. Her lips touching his cheek as she let her finger slide alone the pink scar line.
"Shhh, "she whispered, Ty's breath now a little shaky, his eyes opening and looking up to her, she could see the trust he had in her, he was fighting against the negative connotations of that touch. Trying desperately to hold onto the sensation he felt that came from her and not the repulsion he had endured when Wade's hands were on him.
"it ok, "he whispered, "nothing to it see!" he gave her a smile and lent over to her, kissing her lips, rolling her onto her back and taking control, he lay on top of her now, his shoulders taking his weight.
His mouth running down her neck as his hand pulled the strap of her tank and bra off of her shoulder.
Amys' hand stayed in place, pushing the boundaries again, sliding a little lower, causing Ty's breath to hitch again when he became aware of what she was doing. He pressed his head into her shoulder and growled, making Amy giggle. This was new, and seeing him in such a state or arousal just because of her proximity to him and her actions made her feel invincible.
"Amy " he breathed into her ear, "we can't, not here", he hadn't expected her to take that next step, but her decision to lower her hand had taken this naughty play out of the safety zone. Neither of them had gone this far with each other before, and if this was to happen, Ty had concerns now, over the current location.
She nibbled at his neck, well aware that he may be saying no, but that was not what he wanted. Her hand moved again, making him chuckle and groan again, his hand now sliding under her tank and across her breast. Tys reservations were losing the battle to his desires, his moral compass being overruled by his need to have her and all she was offering him.
"you want this, I want this," Amy whispered, "so what's the problem" she kissed his neck again, making him squirm above her, her hand driving him to distraction.
"the problem is " Ty suddenly cut in, the alarm bells in is head getting so loud now they were deafening him, He pulled up on his shoulders and pointed to the door, a smile curling his lips. "your grandfather is just down the hall! And this house has really thin walls!"
Amy pouted at him from beneath his body, making Ty grin and look at her in exasperation, "Amy! he will kill me!"
"well, at least you'll die happy, "Amy quipped, giving a squeeze with her fingers making TY suddenly gasp and bury his head in the pillow. He rolled off of her, now on his back as he tried to pull himself away from the edge, his smile at her a little shaky.
Amy giggled and pulled her hand free, making Ty breathe a sigh of relief, she leant over him and kissed his lips, taking his focus from her and her actions. Once she had his attention she suddenly moved again and straddled him, sitting on his hips, her body above his. Ty watching her intently, the only thing separating them now was several layers of old denim.
"Amy, "he smiled, his eyes watching her intently, as she looked down at him, her fingers pushing his tee up so his upper torso was exposed.
Ty ran his hands up her thighs as they sat on either side of him. As Amy let her hands wander across his chest and down his sides she could feel him shudder with each caress. His eyes closing as he tried to fight the sensation. Amy bit her lip, she loved this, it was like having a new toy that needed to be explored. She felt his fingers tighten around her thighs as she played on his body, his breathing yet again speeding up as she felt his legs bend behind her.
She tormented him for a little longer, seeing now that although he was fighting it, it was not because it was a dark feeling or a corrupted feeling, rather the opposite. Amy grinned, knowing that they really couldn't take it much past where they were, Ty was right, anyone could at any moment bang on that door and catch them out, but she realized at that moment too, that this was more than just a physical thing, she had been able to move him in ways she never thought possible, he was putty in her hands. And she could turn him on with a simple caress. This empowered Amy, her blue eyes filled with a naughty yet accomplished glow for this handsome long haired green-eyed boy who she never thought could steal her heart like this.
Amy played for a little longer, keeping Ty teetering ever so close to total loss of control, His hands now up behind his head as his eyes closed. His fingers curling around the wooden bedframe.
Amy couldn't contain her smile, her hand moving slightly her eyes watching his expression. Seeing his lips part as he let out a small quiet sign and push his head back into the pillow again. She chuckled to herself and repositioned her hips, trying to make herself more comfortable, her legs starting to tingle from being curled around him for so long. As soon as her hips rolled, she heard Ty gasp and suck in a deep breath and hold it. His eyes suddenly shooting open, a nervous smile on his lips,
"oh, you liked that, "Amy teased, bucking her hips again, TY instantly letting out a shaking laugh and grabbing her thighs again. his head now lifted from the pillow as he rode the sensation until it passed.
"Amy, don… "He warned with a smile, "that's not f….."
Amy rocked again, her eyes electric as she saw him grit his teeth and push a chuckle through them,
"F…..a…re!" he breathed, Ty's hands now clasping her hips tightly trying to keep her still. "God Damn! don't move, "
"what? don't do this?" she taunted, rocking ever so gently again, watching him buck and hiss as he pulled himself into a seated position, Amy still on his lap, his hands now tight around her hips,
"yes, that! "he glared at her, a smile on his lips as he caught hers, his arms wrapping around her and keeping her still. "just hold still ok"
"yes? so you want me to move then? "Amy played, rocking again, seeing Ty let out a whimper of pleasure as he buried his head into her chest,
"come on, you're killing me here!" he whispered,
"ok ok, "Amy smiled, her hands wrapping around his neck and giving him a gentle kiss. "I'm sorry,"
"you are not, "he grinned, taking a few deep breaths and swallowing hard, "you're having a ball, and at my expense I might add!"
"aww you not happy, "Amy said in the saddest voice she could muster, "I can make you happy, I can do…"
TY grabbed her hips even tighter and locked his eyes to hers, "no…. I'm as happy as I need to be ok, I'M ALL GOOD!" he gave her a warning smile again and kissed the tip of her nose. As he held her still while he regained his composure, Amy giving him a devilish grin.
Both of them jumping abruptly at the sound of a knock on the door.
"Um, Hello" A gravelly voice called, "Amy you in there?"
"Shoot! Its grandpa" Amy whispered, quickly jumping off of TY and pulling his tee back down. TY pushed himself up against the bedhead and grabbed his book, throwing a pillow across his lap as Amy snuggled up next to him. The door slowly opening as they looked up innocently from where they lay next to each other. Their faces full of innocents and naivety.
"Hey Jack, "Ty said, keeping one knee raised, looking curious as to the intrusion.
"Hey, there you are, "Jack said, taking in the view, seeing them fully clothed, laying on the bed, TY holding a large book on Ranching and Amy at his side reading over his shoulder.
"Hey grandpa," Amy said, looking innocent, her knee rubbing against TY raised one.
"Lou's looking for you, something about a client needing some papers signed, "Jack explained
"Oh, Ok, thanks, "Amy looked at Ty and kissed his cheek, "I'll see you later ok, you can show me more
About bronc riding then" she gave him a devilish smile as she climbed over him. she stood up, kissing her grandpa as she ran off down the corridor.
"Bronc riding?" Jack asked,
"um yeah, we were chatting about it, you know, whether or not stock procurement for the rodeo was a good business idea, "TY smiled, "not now, of course, but when I take over the company, then, it might be … um yeah, "
Jack nodded, leaning against the door jam, noticing Tys awkwardness and reluctance to move when Amy climbed over him. Ty sensed the old cowboys skepticism and nervously repositioned the pillow that sat across his lap.
"well, I always found that these young rough riding broncs soon calmed down once they got up close and personal to an emasculator." Jack rubbed his mustache, his eyes locked onto Tys. The meaning in his words hitting home,
"an emasculator?" Ty asked, sounding terrified.
"look it up, "Jack said as he turned and left the room, pulling the door shut with a grin.
Ty swallowed, and grabbed his phone, hitting the browser and waiting for his search to offer results. As the images came forth, the color drained from Tys features as he swallowed hard. His hand letting his phone slide down onto the bed next to him.
"Oh, geez"he breathed his hands on his cheeks as he took a few quick breathes, his legs involuntarily crossing over each other.
"so, Thomas, do you have an update for me"
"Yes sir, I think we may have made some headway, I've been seeing quite a bit of Ty since we came back, he's open to talking and taking my advice, the relationship is growing sir, "Thomas looked pleased as he sat in the large leather chair in the main office at Lucky Alberta.
"really, so he's warmed to you, "
"yes sir, we have talked about the business and the depth of the requirement needed to run it, I've shown him how much is involved, and I get the feeling that when and if he does take the reins, sir, I will be able to keep him in line easily. "
"this is promising news Thomas, "the slender man said, looking a little more at peace, "very well done, "
"I told you, sir, he's a good kid, and with the proper guidance in his ear, we can still make this work, Brad only became a problem when he started to challenge the way things were, I don't think we will have that issue with Ty, he really doesn't know any better, he will think it's the norm"
"if this works as you say, we may be able to avoid all this unpleasantness. "The boss said, "in your opinion Thomas, should I reveal my hand now, or wait until he takes control"
Thomas was stunned, the man in charge was asking for his opinion, he never did that with anyone. He always made the calls himself. This was a day that Thomas would remember forever. His ego swelling with his pride, "Sir, I would wait, for now anyway, he's had a lot of shocks recently, and I have only just managed to get him back onto an even keel. news such as yours may send him spiraling again, "
He stopped and looked around the room. Knowing that one day, if things went the way they were supposed to, all of it would be his, "we don't want him out of control, he's shown us he is a wild card when he's on the edge,"
"sound advice Thomas, "The boss replied, his dark glassy eyes considering it," I tend to agree, we will leave him in play, for now, keep up the great work, stay close to him and build that fear in him that his too much for him to handle. let me know if there are any changes"
"yes sir, He's asked for some time off, "Thomas said, hoping the boss would understand, "just a few weeks, time to be a kid he called it, spend time with his girl, "
"really, and you said?"
well, I couldn't really say no sir, it would have upset the balance, I told him I'd leave him be for a few weeks, let him be free, have fun, then on his return, the real training would start, he seemed happy with that sir, " Thomas waited with baited breath, hoping the boss saw it the same way.
"ok, ok, watch from afar, give him this freedom but don't let it get out of hand, I want him primed and ready to hand over or sign you as his partner by the week of his birth, otherwise plan B comes into effect"
"yes sir, I will maintain and observe, trust me all is under control" Thomas face filled with relief, he knew how dangerous the man at the top was. Having him on side was imperative to survive this.
"Wade?" The boss asked,
"he is secure sir, awaiting further instructions. "Thomas replied,
"good, thank you, Thomas, you have well and truly proven your worth"
The line went dead as Thomas smiled a satisfied smile, soon everything would fall into place, he would either own or be chief advisor to one of the biggest Equestrian Holdings companies in the North Americas or have a huge cash injection when the company was closed and sold off. Either way, he would win. And either way, he would be free of Wade and this insidious mastermind once and for all.
"there you are, "Amy said with a smile, the morning sun shining through the barns open doors. She had slept well the night before, her mind on a constant loop with the fun she and Ty had engaged in the night before. She had returned to his room after seeing Lou, but had found him fast asleep, book on the floor, pen and notepad on his chest. She had covered him with a blanket and left him be, kissing his cheek softly before heading to bed herself.
TY grinned at her as he fed the horses in the barn, he loved doing the morning and night checks, it made him feel normal, and put all the other stuff that troubled him out of his mind. Being a simple ranch hand meant no pressure and for Ty that sounded absolutely wonderful.
The couple who had been in his loft were moving out, so TY was also secretly excited to be getting his room back. Staying in the house for the last week had been nice, But the loft meant freedom to him. And Jacks eyes weren't always going to be on him up there either. Ty had noticed Jacks scrutiny over him and his whereabouts had increased since his move to the guest room. And after their little discussion over the need for an emasculator, Ty was more than happy to put a little distance between them.
"can I help "Amy asked, seeing him put the last bucket over the rear stall, his hair a bit of a mess,
"um you can help water, I've got most of the rest done now" he smiled,
"you started early, it's not even seven yet" she laughed,
"yeah, well, "TY said as he scooped up the last bit of bedding from the empty stall, Amy watching his lower back as it was exposed by his jeans as they rode low on his hips as he worked. "I like to help out, "
"you don't have to you know, you're not a hired hand anymore" Amy replied, as she lugged the heavy hose in from the roll outside.
"I know, but I can't just sit around like royalty you know, unlike some people" he replied, he looked at her as the sweat ran down his cheek, his hair now in his eyes.
"who?" she asked with a whisper,
TY looked up at the loft floor above, raising his eyebrow,
"you serious! "Amy giggled, coming over to him, wanting to hear the gossip. Ty stopped what he was doing and took a breath,
"Lisa told me the only reason they got my loft was that they threw a fit about the outdoor plumbing at the dude ranch. It seems their daughter doesn't like outdoor amenities "
"oh dear, "Amy giggled,
"and to top it off, they don't even have a horse here! it's just a pleasure-seeking trip, you know family outing, Mother and Father and the spoilt little daughter, "TY put on his best toffy rich person voice, "out for a week in the country, see how the other half lives"
Amy burst out laughing as he pegged up his nose with his finger, grinning himself. TY couldn't stand elitism. He had been surrounded by it all his life. The idea that someone thought they were too good to do a job that they expected someone else to do rubbed him up the wrong way.
"so, are they leaving or?" Amy asked quietly
"no, they are here for another week, "TY said dryly, but Lisa is moving them to Fairfield, she's got some room in the main house and she feels they will be more comfortable there.
"Oh, "Amy replied, "the loft not up to scratch either I take it, I suppose, we will have to help them with their bags too, "
"pfft, more like throw them from the loft windows, "TY Joked, as he started to lift the wheelbarrow with the used bedding, Amy biting her lip as she watched his muscles contract in his arms.
"mmmm. "she said "you sure look good when you're all hot and bothered"
Ty raised an eyebrow at her, his arms repositioning the barrow by bouncing it in his hands. "oh really"
"Well, I've seen you rather bothered, "she said quietly, "and that was kinda hot too"
Tys face went red, for other reasons than his physical exertion. "you'll get yours, "he taunted,
"Oh, promises promises" she giggled, as he dropped the barrow and grabbed her, throwing her playfully through the stall door, pinning her up against the back of the stall and kissing her passionately. His hands open on the wood paneling beside her shoulders, his body leaning in against hers.
"Ty Borden as I live and Breathe!"
Ty turned around, a little short of breath, his eyes looking out of the stall door towards the voice that had interrupted his little make out session., Amy catching her breath her cheeky smile turning into a look of curiosity as she saw the biggest set of long-lashed brown eyes she had ever seen looking back at them.
Ty turned, his hands falling to his sides as he walked out of the stall, Amy at his back, looking past him as this vision of pure loveliness stood before her. Long tanned shapely legs, on show from under a pair of tight blue, faded denim shorts, A tight button front cotton tee open at the front with some rather impressive, cleavage, showing through and long suitably styled and curled blonde locks. Finishing just above her little round behind.
"what …the." Ty breathed, as he wiped his face from the sweat of his labors, his eyes fixated on the beauty before him. Shock and confusion on his features.
"Wow, you always were a man of few words, but yeah, this is static, even for you," she said, her perfect teeth giving him a suggestive smile. "looking good Borden, I must say, this country life agrees with you"
Amy took hold of Ty's arm, not knowing what to say or do, she looked at the vision before her, wealth and status about this girl, from her designer shorts to her Nike shoes. Tys eyes flicking back to Amy as he finally shut his gaping mouth. His face still shocked and filled with disbelief.
"oh TY, Amy, there you are "Lisa called, seeing the three now all standing in the main area of the barn together. She quickly ran over and smiled at them all, "I see you've met Bella, "
Amy's eyes flashed towards Tys as he wiped his hands on his shirt, his eyes still on the girl before him.
"Amy, TY, this is the Truscott's daughter, Bella, she will be staying at Fairfield for a week with her parents, "Lisa explained, "Im moving them over today, then the loft is all yours again Ty,"
Bella smiled at Lisa, giving her the best fake thank you grin she could muster, adding a small shoulder crunch for authenticity.
"thanks Lisa, "he purred, "But Ty and I already know each other, don't we Ty,"
Her eyes batted at him as Ty still stood stoic, still trying to process the fact that she was actually there in the barn at Heartland.
"Oh, "Lisa smiled, looking at TY for recognition, seeing him finally pull his facilities back together to manage to speak,
"um, Yeah, Bella and I went to the same school in Calli" He said softly, Still not able to take his eyes off of the blast from the past that smiled in front of him.
"oh really, well, that's a bonus then, at least you'll have someone to show you around while you're here," Lisa said happily, Seeing Tys eyes finally lower and look back at Amy, who he slowly wrapped his arm around. His smile small but only meant for her.
"we can catch up later Ty, you can help me with my little taste of country life, that is if your finished playing with the hired help." Bella said sweetly as she turned to follow Lisa from the barn, "love ya babe"
Her obvious neglect to even interact with Amy the whole time they were standing their making Amy's chest thump with anger. He insinuation that she was also the hired help not sitting well either.
She turned to Ty who rubbed his face, still feeling a little stunned.
"Love you, Babe!" Amy snarked, "I'll give her, a hired help! is she serious!"
"Amy, "Ty said softly, "that means nothing ok, she says that to everyone" he walked around trying to gain some perspective. "why is she even here! She's a beach bum"
"Well, you heard her, to have a little taste of the country life!" Amy spat, her green streak shining through in all its fluorescent glory.
"Hey, "Ty said, coming over to her and taking her in his arms, "stop ok, she means nothing to me, she never did, "
"she meant enough to sleep with though!" Amy cut back, seeing her words sting him. "she is the girl from the images right, the ones of you in bed doing … with her, she's that Bella right?"
"ok, yes, it's that Bella, and yes, I slept with her, "he agreed, "but it was a one-time thing and it meant nothing, "
"maybe to you, but it obviously meant something to her, "Amy retorted, "didn't you see the way she was looking at you, with those big fake eyes and those big fake boo,"
"Amy, "TY smiled, cutting her off and kissing her tenderly, "I don't care about how she looked at me, or what she wants, I want you, you are my girl, "he pulled her close and hugged her again, finally feeling her reciprocate.
"you stink" Amy mumbled, looking down at the floor, kicking some hay with her boot in annoyance.
"well, I'll finish up in here and then go get cleaned up and you and I are going for a ride ok, "he smiled, trying to reassure her, "up to the ridge, and I can show you there what I mean when I say you're my girl!"
Amy blushed and nodded, still feeling a little foolish for reacting so childishly, her insecurities making her feel inadequate in the presence of such a stunning beauty as Bella was. She couldn't compete with that, she thought to herself. she was only just 17, yet to graduate, wore horsey girl clothes and had nowhere near the cleavage that Bella possessed. She kissed TY on the cheek and nodded, heading back out of the barn and back to the house to get a picnic for them to take, her mind filled with worrisome thoughts.
Ty had told her that he loved her, that he wanted her, that she was his girl, so why did she feel that at any moment this vixen from New Port was going to swoop in and steal him away from her. Her heart sank, and her boots hit the front porch and she moped on inside feeling dejected, plane and unworthy.
She wandered past Lou, who looked at her a little quizzically, but backed off when she saw Amy's raised hand of 'please no questions', so resigned herself to watch her sad younger sister wander down the hall to her room and close the door.
Amy sat on the bed and pulled out her phone, she pressed the screen and waited for the other to pick up.
"Hey, "
"Hey yourself, you ok?"
"no, "
"you want to talk?"
"yeah, "
"I'm on my way ?"
Amy hung up and pressed a few more buttons, then put the phone down. Her hands in her lap. Her face resigned to giving up.
Ty's phone chimed, and he pulled it from his pocket, reading the screen his smile faded and he looked over towards the main house,
He typed a reply and chewed his lip, looking worried. His eyes looking over the text yet again,
{Hey Ty, Rain check on the ride ok, I'll see you later this afternoon. Love you}
He twitched his lip and picked up the barrow, pushing it outside to the manure pile and emptying it.
His mind filled with questions and worry over where all this was heading.
He slowly walked back towards the house, looking weary but deep in thought, Jacks truck pulling up behind him and coming up beside him as he walked.
"Hey, you busy!" Jack called, seeing his dirty appearance, his disheveled hair, and grubby hands
"Ergh, no, I was just heading in to clean up and…." TY replied.
"well, I need some help fixing a rail in the back pasture so. "Jack said, not really asking but expecting a response "and I can't seem to find any of the hired staff around who aren't looking after someone or doing something!"
"ok, Jack, I'll help" Ty smiled, opening the passenger door and jumping in, His eyes on the house as the truck turned and headed away down the drive, TY pulled out his phone and pressed send, looking at Jack with a smile,
"you good?" Jack asked,
"Yeah, Im good, "Ty replied as he settled back in the truck as it turned left at the main gate and headed towards the rear boundary road.
To be continued