Chapter 38

The Verdict

Amy saw the lights of the police cruiser as it slowly came down the main drive towards the Heartland homestead. It was followed closely behind by a second cruiser that pulled up behind it as it parked. Two RCMP officers stepped out of the first vehicle as Amy and Jack came out the front door. The sun had well and truly set on the ranch, it had been nearly four hours since Amy left Ty at the courthouse in the DAs care and now, finally, he had made it back home.

Jack looked at Amy as she stood on the front porch. The second police car not turning off its engine like the first.

"what are they waiting for?" she asked in a small voice, curious as to why Ty hadn't got out of the vehicle.

The first officer walked through the homestead gate and shook Jacks outstretched hand in welcome.

"Mr. Bartlett, "He said, "I'm officer Kirk and I will be on duty tonight, "

"um good to meet you officer Kirk, welcome to Heartland, "Jack said, looking a little confused with all the official protocol.

"Mr. Borden will be staying here tonight is that right?"

"yes, "Amy said,

"ok well, we need you to understand that he is still under protective custody and is not permitted to leave this residence unless accompanied by either myself or another officer. Do you understand"

"yes, we will make sure we stick to the rules "Jack smiled,

"officer Williams and myself are on the house tonight, and the other detail will return in the morning to escort Mr. Borden back to the Courthouse, "he looked around the ranch from his position on the porch, "it's a lovely spread you have here sir"

"Um, thank you, "Jack said, looking at Amy with a quirky smile, "so you boys need anything? Coffee, something to eat?"

"no sir, we will be fine, thank you for offering though, "Officer Kirk smiled, he turned towards the other cruiser and waved, causing them to cut the engine as one officer exited the passenger side door and opened the rear as a figure disembarked.

Amy stepped down from the porch and watched as Ty was walked to where she stood, an officer at each side of him.

"Amy, "he said softly, as he wrapped his arms around her, shutting his eyes and losing himself in her warmth.

"Let's get you inside, "she said as she walked arm in arm with him up the front steps and towards Jack who smiled warmly at them both,

"you go on in and Ill chat to the protection detail, "Jack said opening the door and ushering them both into the house.

Ty walked with Amy into the kitchen and smiled the warmest of smiles, he was home. He hadn't been at heartland since before they went to the fishing cabin, and as always it still felt good to be inside its walls.

He walked slowly into the lounge and saw Lou and Tim sitting near the fire. They both smiled in welcome to him as he looked around the room, his eyes also falling on Caleb and Scott who were standing off to one side.

"hey man, "Caleb smiled coming over to his friend and shoulder bumping him.

"Caleb" Ty said softly, He hadn't seen him since all this began, he had been away on the circuit since his break up from Ashley and although he had stayed in touch with Amy regularly, getting updates on Ty and his condition, this was the first time he had seen Ty in person for a few months.

"Hey buddy, "he smiled, "Amy called me yesterday and I high tailed it home for the trial, you're looking good for a man who has an armed patrol tailing him"

Ty smiled and hugged his friend, tapping his back roughly "you didn't have to come back just for me, but thank you. It's good to see you man"

Ty looked over at Scott who also came forward and shook his hand. "hey Ty, good to see you on your feet again, when Amy called and said you were heading home, I had to be part of the welcome wagon "

"Scott, "Ty smiled, slightly overwhelmed by the attention "thanks, man, I appreciate it, "

Ty heard the door open and turned to see Jack enter the room behind them.

"ok, well the house has its guards all in place, "he said, walking over to Tim who sat near the fire.

Ty watched as the group mulled around the coffee table unsure as to what was going on.

"so, how's this going to work," Tim said, looking up at Jack.

"well Caleb's in the loft, and you're on the couch," Jack replied

"I can stay if you need," Scott said, coming to stand next to Jack,

"I think we are good for tonight Scott, but thanks, "Jack said, "but Tim and I have to move the herd in the morning to the back pasture, so maybe call us around 7ish.?"

"Guys," Ty interjected, perplexed by the united front, yet feeling rather humbled by their commitment "I don't know what's going on here, but honestly, its ok, the armed guards are enough I think. Please stop worrying about me. Bens behind bars, there's nothing to worry about "

Jack walked over to Ty who looked overwhelmed by everyone's concern for him, he loved them all for their efforts, but he couldn't help but feel a little claustrophobic,

"we said we would keep you and Amy safe, and that's exactly what we intend to do," he looked at the others in the room who all nodded in agreement,

"I don't know what to say," Ty stammered, his voice quavering slightly, blown away by the devotion and protectiveness that surrounded him.

"How about you go and get some rest, Lou suggested, "I can put the kettle on and make you and Amy some tea if you like, "

"you do look tired Ty," Amy said, wrapping her arm around his waist again, "it's been a long day"

Ty nodded in agreement, he was exhausted, and his side was sore and tender. He smiled warmly at all of them, feeling very loved and protected as Amy started to guide him towards her room.

Ty stopped and smiled awkwardly at her, as she opened the bedroom door for him, His eyes flicked back towards Jack," Amy, um, I can't, um, what about Jack?"

He watched as the older gents turned to him after seeing his hesitation.

"go get some rest Ty, "Jack said, "it's been a long day, we will see you in the morning"

Tim opened his mouth to protest when he realized what Jack was agreeing to, but Jacks glare made him stop, "go, son, its fine, "

Amy nodded at her grandfather offering him a grateful smile and turned back to Ty who couldn't believe what he had just heard come out of Jacks' mouth. Especially after the conversation he had with Jack at the cafe a few hours before. He hesitated again, but saw Jacks motion to go and decided to accept the trust his mentor was putting in him and abide by his rule.

He walked slowly into Amy's room and she shut the door.

"are you seriously going to allow that Jack!" Tim retorted under his breath, surprised by Jacks acceptance of Amy having Ty in her bedroom for the night. He felt compassion for Ty and had offered his help to protect him, but the idea of him spending the night in his daughter's bed was a little too much for Tim to fathom.

"yes, I am Tim, "Jack replied, keeping his tone low, "it's about time we stopped treating Amy like a child and had a little faith. Ty loves her, they have been together for long enough now for us to respect their relationship, and I think, in this circumstance, we can cut them both a little slack"

"let's not forget that they also spent last night alone together in a hotel room "Caleb smiled cheekily, "don't tell me they only raided the mini bar and watched paid TV!" he chuckled and raised his eyebrows suggestively but instantly regretted it, dropping his grin when he saw Tim shoot a cold stare in his direction.

"Come on Jack!" Tim rebutted, "have you lost your mind! "

"Enough Tim, ok, If I can deal with it, so can you" Jack warned, "I trust Ty, and Amy and well, he's exhausted anyway, so seriously, I think we have nothing to worry about"

"exhausted maybe, but with the woman he loves next to him, um … he won't be sleeping that's for sure!". Caleb chuckled and then quickly looked away when the two older gents glared at him again "ok, well I'll see you guys in the morning, " he said, making a hasty retreat.

"I'll be off too, "Scott said, his grin also broad, remembering his days when he used to date Lou and hide in the broom cupboard. "call if you need anything ok and I'll catch you all in the morning if you need me"

Lou smiled at her grandpa and walked over to him and gave him a big hug, "good on you Grandpa, way to be progressive, I'm proud of you"

Jack nodded awkwardly and rubbed his jaw, standing by his decision, even though it made him uneasy.

They all said their farewells and goodnights as Lou checked on Katie before she retired to bed. Leaving the lounge to Jack and Tim.

"your seriously ok with them… you know, under your roof?" Tim whispered as he made himself comfortable on the couch.

"look "Jack sighed, "no, I'm not comfortable about it, but if they are in there, then I know they are safe, and that they are together, that madman threatened them again today. I'm not taking any chances, with Ty or my granddaughter. "

Tim gave him an understanding nod, seeing his logic. "ok I get it, I'm not happy about it, but I get it"

"see you in the morning Tim" Jack concluded and he took a deep breath and slowly walked to his room. Leaving Tim to dose by the fire.

Ty sat at the end of Amy's bed and ran his hands through his hair, his shoulders slumping slightly. The weariness finally taking control.

He was still in his dress clothes, that he had worn to court although he had undone the necktie in the police car, its tightness making him feel constricted .. Amy could see the exhaustion etched on his face.

"They dropped our clothes off this afternoon, "she said softly, pointing to the bag in the corner near her desk. "you should get changed and maybe have a shower, you look like you need it"

Ty nodded and sighed a heavy sigh as he looked up at her. His eyes showing the strain of the day's proceedings, "it's nearly over Amy," he whispered,

"Yeah, tomorrow will see that madman behind bars for a very long time" she smiled,

"or we will see him walk free," Ty said dryly, catching Amy's look of rebuttal, "it's a possibility Amy, he may walk out of there tomorrow a free man"

She came over to stand before him, and placed her hands on either side of his tired face, "well, we will deal with that, if and when it happens ok, "

Ty smiled weakly at her, his thoughts betraying him, he wanted to believe that Ben was going to finally get what he deserved, but the past had shown him that Ben also had an innate ability to sidestep justice.

Amy knelt down in front of him and reached forward to loosen his already disheveled tie and undo his collar button.

"you need to relax Ty, "she said softly, continuing to undo the shirt and expose his bare chest,

She slowly stood up and took his hands in hers, and pulled him to his feet so he was standing in front of her, his shirt open to his navel is tie hanging loosely around his neck.

Without speaking, she pushed the shirt slowly down and off his shoulders, exposing his muscular arms. Tys eyes where transfixed to hers as her hands slowly untucked the shirt from his waistband, letting it fall to the ground. She did her best to avoid his hip, which still supported the waterproof dressing that covered his wound.

Ty exhaled slowly, the tension leaving him as he felt her hands rub across his shoulders and gently squeeze his muscles. His eyes shut momentarily as her hands manipulated the skin around the base of his neck, softening it up with her fingers, giving him some relief from the stress and tension he had carried all day.

Ty's head drooped forward slightly as he lost himself in her touch. The feeling too overpowering to ignore. Amy slowly stepped around behind him, keeping her hands on his skin as she rolled her thumbs and fingers over his shoulders. she circled him and continued the massage as she came back to stand before him.

He let his jaw fall slack as he felt her hands move down his chest to his waist, they slowly ran along the waistband of his dress pants and worked on the shiny silver buckle of his belt.

Tys eyes opened slowly, to once again lock to Amy's as he felt the belt give way.

He opened his mouth to speak, his eyes showing his apprehension but Amy shushed him with her finger to his lips, showing him there was no expectations or demands in her actions.

She undid the two buttons on his pants and quickly dispensed with the clip, letting them fall down his legs to land near his shirt on the floor.

Ty kicked his shoes off and stepped out of his clothes, pulling his socks off as he did, he stood before her now, his eyes watching her with love in just his boxers.

Amy took his hand again and lead him towards the bed, she pulled down the covers and puffed up the pillows, then tapped the bed, inviting him in. 'Ty smiled softly and accepted the invitation, he climbed under the covers and reclined back against the soft pillows, his body relishing the comfort around him.

He turned his head to look at her, his hands resting on his chest. "your turn" he said in a soft whisper, his eyes now heavy.

Amy smiled a soft yet sultry smile at him as she moved over to the other side of the room and as Ty watched, she changed her clothes into a soft blue tank and PJ shorts. She moved slowly, letting each garment fall from her form knowing his eyes were on her, his arm now behind his head propping himself up slightly, to get a better view.

Amy brushed her hair and tied it into a soft plait, then quietly came over to the bed, after flicking the lights off at the door. The room took on a soft amber glow, as the only lighting source now was a small desk lamp that sent shadows up the red walls.

She climbed into bed next to him and slid her arm under his neck, allowing him to roll into her side slightly, his head resting on the nape of her neck. Ty usually held Amy when they slept, and she loved feeling his arms around her, they made her feel protected and safe. But tonight, Amy was the protector, she wrapped her arms around Ty's shoulders and cradled him as she felt his arm slide around her waist and rest just under her chest. Amy kissed his forehead and ran her hand slowly through his soft brown hair, feeling him relax even more in her arms.

It wasn't long before she felt his breathing slow and take on a steady rhythm, his hand going limp across her body. Amy looked up when she heard the bedroom door handle turn slowly, and frowned slightly as Lou peered in, holding a small tray with a teapot and two cups, she went to speak, but instantly held her tongue when she saw Amy slowly shake her head and put her finger to her lips to silence her,

"I'll leave this over there "Lou whispered, seeing that Ty had well and truly lost his battle with exhaustion. His head resting peacefully on Amy's shoulder. Amy smiled at her sister as she continued to stroke his hair, keeping him in a content and peaceful state.

Lou smiled at the scene in front of her and turned to leave but stopped suddenly as Jack came around the corner of the hallway, he went to speak but stopped as Lou shushed him.

"um... ugh," he gruffed, trying to regain his composure, hoping he had not walked in on something he really didn't want to see, but his eyes softened when he saw the innocent scene before him.

Amy looked at her grandfather and then at Lou, her hand now covering Ty's exposed ear.

"good night," she said softly, her eyes telling them to leave her be. That they both had nothing to worry about and that she was not in need of their protection.

"um, the court car will be here at 11 am" Jack whispered, seeing Ty's head move slightly as he spoke.

"ok, "Amy whispered, "see you at 11"

"yup, "Jack replied as Lou backed him out of the room, "see you in the morning, sleep well"

Amy's eyes glared a friendly warning at her grandfather, "you too,"

And with that Lou gave a look of apology to her younger sister and closed the door.

Ty exhaled and wet his lips, as his head nuzzled into Amy's neck a little more. Amy kissed the top of his head again, letting her chin fall gently against his forehead. Her own eyes starting to close as sleep overtook her. She held him in her arms through the night, Ty finally finding the peace and tranquility he desperately needed. In her arms, he found his shelter, his sanctuary. The one place where the troubles of what had happened to him couldn't follow. She was his Eden, his utopia.

As long as he had Amy's love and support, he could face whatever the days ahead would bring.

It was just past 5 when Amy woke, she looked over at the still slumbering Ty and smiled, they had moved slightly in their sleep and Ty was now laying on his stomach his head turned to face her, his shoulders spread out as his arms folded under his pillow.

The covers had slipped down his back exposing his shoulders to the air, Amy watched as his breathing made his body rise and fall softly, his muscles moving under his skin.

She slowly slid out of the bed and pulled on her evening gown, wrapping it tightly around herself as the cold morning air nipped at her shoulders.

She slipped on her slippers and padded quietly to the bedroom door, turning back to check he was still asleep before leaving.

The kitchen was quiet and she saw Tim sleeping soundly on the couch as she passed.

Amy smiled at her dads socked feet as they hung off the side of the couch. His gentle snores sounding a little like a calf calling for its mother.

"you're up early," Lou said, warming a bottle for Katie,

"yeah, my mind won't seem to turn off, "She said taking a seat at the kitchen table.

"how's Ty?" Lou asked as she flicked on the coffee machine, and took a seat across from her sister, "he seemed a little overwhelmed last night,"

"he was, he finds it hard to accept that he needs help from anyone, still, after what those lawyers did to him on the stand yesterday, well, let's just say they push him to his limits"

"that was pretty confronting Amy, hearing what actually happened, I have to admit it shook me, so I can't even imagine how it felt for Ty to relive it" Lou replied,

"I just hope the jury does the right thing," Amy said,

"I can't see them going the other way, not after Kallie's statements "Lou touched her sister's hand.

And a smile played on her lips. "that was impressive of Grandpa don't you think, letting Ty sleep in your room, "

"Yeah, that surprised me too Lou, "Amy smiled,

"what surprised you?" Jack asked, yawning as he came into the kitchen. Tim not far behind him.

"Oh, nothing Grandpa, just how all you guys rallied together for TY" Amy lied

"well he's…." Jack started,

"family and it's been that way from the beginning "Tim interjected with a cheeky smile as Jack rolled his eyes at him.

"how is Ty this morning?" Jack asked, changing the conversation away from Tim,

"he's still asleep Grandpa, he hasn't really slept well for days, so I thought I'd let him sleep late, "Amy got up and opened the fridge, "maybe breakfast in bed, make him feel like he's home again"

"well he better not get used to that, "Tim snarked, taking a cup of coffee and drinking it down." this isn't the dude ranch, and he's not a paying guest"

"he knows that dad, "Amy rebutted, "I just thought that since he's finally home, we could do something nice for him, "

"I think that's a great idea Amy "Lou smiled, "I can make some blueberry pancakes if you like, there his favorite aren't they"

Amy grinned and nodded, "yes, with extra maple syrup,"

"wow. "Tim remarked, "maybe I should get hit by a truck and lose my memory!"

"stop it dad ok, "Lou warned, "that's not even something you should joke about "

"ok ok, "Jack sighed, taking his coffee to the lounge," let's all just keep it simple ok, we have one more day to get through and I have a feeling Tys going to need our support more than ever "

"what time is the car coming ?" Amy asked, her eyes following her grandfather.

"11 I think, unless the jury comes back early" Jack looked at Amy as he turned from the couch, "you know we may not hear anything today right? "

"Yes I know Grandpa, "Amy said, her voice a little defeated, "the DA said it may be a couple of days before we hear anything "

"I suppose the longer they stay out, the better hey" Tim surmised, "means they are thinking hard about the decision"

"or they cant make up their minds whether or not they believe me"

They all turned to see Ty standing near the attic stairs, his eyes still heavy with sleep,

"Ty," Amy said, getting up and coming to his side, seeing the look on his face.

"You want coffee son?" Jack asked, pointing to the kitchen.

Ty took a deep breath and rubbed his eyes, his face still looked tired and drawn. Amy wrapped her arm around his waist and felt him pull back slightly, as he stepped slowly back towards the bedroom.

"Ty, "Amy said, her voice a whisper as he lifted his hand to her as he walked away, not wanting to engage.

She watched him walk towards the bathroom and open the door, resting his hand on the door jam for a second to steady himself then going inside.

Amy went to follow, but Jack stepped forward and took her arm. "give him some space Amy, I told you, this was going to be a hard day "

"But Grandpa," she rebutted, not understanding why he would want her so close the night before then discard her and push her away in the morning.

"Hey, he's going to have ups and downs, just be there, that's all you can do " Jack smiled, "give him time, he will come around you'll see"

"Jack, you coming, ?" Tim interjected, "the herd? Remember?"

"yes yes, Tim" Jack growled, "I'm coming, " he looked back at Amy and hugged her softly, "I'll be back around lunch time, you catching the car with Ty, or do you need me to give you a lift?"

Amy bit her lip, looking at the bathroom door, not knowing if she should stay next to Ty and go with him, or give him space he obviously needed and wait for Jack. "Um, I'll let you know?"

She motioned towards the bathroom door and smiled

Jack nodded in understanding, "good idea"

The two older gents grabbed their hats and coats and left the ranch, heading out on horseback for the backfields and the cattle that grazed there.

Lou kept to her word and made blueberry pancakes, leaving them on a tray on the table, with fresh orange juice a side of bacon and extra maple syrup.

Amy went to her room and brushed out her hair, she put on some ranch clothes as the horses still needed to be watered and fed. She pulled on her boots and stood up to buckle up her belt as she felt two cool arms wrap around her from behind.

Amy looked over her shoulder as Ty rested his damp head near her ear and kissed her cheek softly.

"sorry" he whispered, as he pulled her against him even more, his arms now enveloping her in his embrace."I didn't mean to push you away"

Amy turned in his arms and wrapped hers around him as well, reaching up and kissing his lips tenderly. "there's pancakes in the kitchen, Lou made them for you,"

He smiled the smallest of smiles and ran his hand down her soft cheek,

"thank you"

"do you want to come with me to the barn, We can water the horses and …" She smiled up at him, trying to make the day as normal as possible.

"Um. That would be great, "he said, but motioned his head to her window as a police officer walked past on his perimeter check"I think they may have other ideas"

Amy curled her lip, she had forgotten about the armed guards.

"well, all we can do is ask, "she replied taking his hand in hers and throwing his jacket and boots his way. Ty quickly finished getting dressed and after devouring the breakfast Lou had left for them they walked towards the mud rooms door, Amy just in front of him, The guard turned and watched them as they stepped out onto the front porch.

"Mr. Borden, I hope you slept well," the officer said, "I'm officer Anderson and Ill be with you this morning until your transport comes"

Ty nodded at him awkwardly, while he slipped his hand around Amy's waist.

"we are just going over to the barn," Amy said confidently, stepping off the steps and taking Ty with her.

"Miss, I'm under orders to keep Mr. Borden in the house," the officer said cooly.

"look, Heartland is a working ranch, and as such we have things we need to do. Ty will be perfectly safe in the barn, you can come too if you like!" Amys' voice was clear and authoritative as she held her stance with the officer.

"I'm sorry Miss, but …" he retorted,

"you can see the barn from here,!' Amy argued, "this is ridiculous,"

"Look, "Ty said softly, trying to reason with his protector, "you can walk over with us, and check it out, I promise I'll stay right by your side until you give us the all clear"

The officer looked at Ty and saw him raise his eyebrows towards Amy and squeeze her gently around the waist, Trying to get some understanding from the young officer.

A small smile crept across Officer Anderson's lips, getting the message as Ty smiled softly in return. "ok, I'll walk you over, but you must not leave the barn unless …."

"escorted by an officer "Amy sighed, "yes yes, we know the drill"

The officer glared at her sarcasm and walked with the two of them towards the barn. Ty walked along next to Amy, his stride still metered but stronger than it had been. Although his mind was filled with thoughts of the court's verdict, he was in himself actually feeling stronger. His side still had a dull ache, and when he had showered he had also noticed the purple bruise that now adorned his hip. But his legs didn't feel as fatigued as usual and the shakes seemed to have subsided for the time being. He took a deep breath, enjoying the country air, the sun hitting his face. He looked over at Amy who had threaded her arm through his. She looked radiant in the morning glow. He still couldn't believe she was his, that she stood by his side and called him love. Ty had experienced a lot of pain and disappointment in his young life, he had been used and abused, let down and exploited, and never really understood what it met to be accepted and loved until he came to Heartland. This ranch, these people, had saved his life and he was forever grateful for it.

Amy pushed the barn door open slowly and smiled at the officer as he stepped inside and looked around. "ok, I'll be at the house if you need me" he said flatly, tipping his hat and returning the way they had come.

Amy giggled at Ty and pulled him into the barn office, pushing the door shut as she pushed him playfully against the desk. He smiled at her in surprise as she wrapped her arms around his neck and kissed him passionately, her body coming into contact with his.

When they finally came up for air, Ty grinned at her and wiped her soft blonde hair from her eyes. "I thought we had horses to water?" he said.

"Caleb is in the loft, "she smiled, pecking his lips again, "he can handle it"

She lent in again and reconnected the kiss, pulling Ty into a tighter embrace, making him smile and return the favor, his hands wrapping around her waist.

"Ok ok "A familiar voice laughed causing them to pull apart and turn towards the door.

"Caeleb" Ty grinned, his head still cheek to cheek with Amy as she smiled at the interloper as well.

"Amy tells me you remember everything," He said hesitantly, "that right,?"

Ty nodded and kissed Amy gently on the cheek as she stepped away from her boyfriend and sat at the desk.

"everything?" Ty agreed, "well, yeah, I think I do, why?"

"oh no reason, "Caleb grinned, looking away sheepishly,

"you referring to our past?" Ty replied, his eyebrows raised, "like when you tricked me into letting Ghost go to impress Amy? "

"yep, "Caleb laughed, "you do remember, "

"or the time you and I roughed it up at the roundup? Or when you punched me in the guts over Kit?"

"ok ok, I see your point, " Caleb smiled, "there was good stuff too, like being my best man, and staying with me and Ash at the trailer, taking Chase down at the pool hall? "

Ty grinned and had to nod and agree Caleb may have started as a rival but their friendship had grown into something great. He was in all sense of the word his best bud and he had missed him.

"How are you and Ash?" Ty asked, "I remember but timelines still get me"

"Um, it's over dude, I'm ok with it now, It's not easy to admit your wife wants a divorce, but hey, I need to let it go, "Caleb smiled a soft smile at his two best friends. "cowboy up as Tim would say"

"you never told me you two got into a fight at the roundup?" Amy asked looking at both of them.

"Um, yeah, those high kicking cows, ya know, took us by surprise" Caleb laughed, tipping his hat and giving Ty an awkward glance.

"it was more like a disagreement, "Ty lied, remembering the time well.

"Oh, was that before or after I kissed you at the campsite, ?" she grinned at Ty, who looked away from his friends surprised gaze,

"you, she …man, You didn't tell me she kissed you!" Caleb's mouth was agape, "I knew that smile you had on your face was more than a little overconfidence."

"come on Caleb, "Ty laughed, reaching out his hand in friendship, "your not going to hold that against me are you, ?"

Calebs open mouth turned into a broad smile as he accepted the gesture "Nah man, the better man won, I didn't stand a chance, I know that now, you two were meant to me, like peas and carrots, ya know"

The three friends talked and laughed for a while catching up on each other's lives, Ty had missed a lot while he was sick and it was a nice feeling to hear how his friends world was going.

They all decided to handle the horses together with Ty and Amy doing the feed and water while Caleb mucked out the stalls. Amy had pushed Caleb in the ribs when Ty had offered to assist him. Making sure he was well aware that Tys offer, although generous was not in line with his physical well-being.

It was not much before 10:30 am when they all walked back to the main house, the Officer glaring at them as they hadn't allowed him to escort Ty back.

"well my man, I'll be heading out now, best of luck in court today," Caleb smiled, shaking Ty's hand yet again and pulling it into a bro hug.

"thanks, man, its been great seeing you, maybe we can catch up later, have a few beers,?" Ty suggested.

"sounds like a plan, "He tilted his hat and walked towards the door, happy to have his best friend back home again.

"You two got quite the bromance going on there, "Amy laughed, bumping Ty's side playfully as she wiped her hands.

"Um, no, just missed him, he's insane, but he kinda grows on you" Ty laughed,

"that he does " She agreed, "we better get dressed, the car will be here soon, "

Tys smiled faded, he had forgotten about the court and the trial and the day of reckoning, His time in the barn with Caleb and Amy had felt like old times.

"Yeah, "He said softly, running his hands through his hair and seeing her watching him

"hey, "Amy said as she came to his side and hugged him, giving him support "I'm right here, you're not facing this alone, "

"I know, "he whispered, kissing the top of her head, "I just want it over with Amy, "

"and it will be soon, Ben and all his sidekicks will get what they deserve," She pressed her head to his chest and listened to his heartbeat, as her arms wrapped around him.

There was a knock at the door and Amy opened it slowly to see Officer Anderson standing next to a well-dressed man in a black suit,

"Hello Amy, " The officer said, "the transport for Mr. Borden is here, "

Amy nodded and went back inside, returning with a well dressed Ty at her side, all be it a nervous and tense looking version.

He was in a soft white shirt and dark blue tie with his dress pants. His hair was brushed and tidy and he fiddled with the zipper on his jacket as Amy helped him pull it on.

"You ready Mr. Borden, "the officer asked as they stepped out onto the front porch,

"yes, "Ty said softly as Amy adjusted his tie and smiled at him. "as ready as I'll ever be"

Amy took his hand and walked with him to the car as the man in the dark suit opened the rear passenger door.,

The driver motioned for Ty to take his place in the back seat of the dark car but balked when Ty motioned for Amy to go in first.

"Um sir, I'm sorry this transport is just for you, "He said, the sun bouncing off his dark sunglasses.

Ty turned to look at the driver and then at the officer, a look of puzzled concern flicking through his green eyes, "if Amys not with me, I'm not going" he said shortly, his hand firmly on the door frame.

"Ty, Its ok, I can come with dad and grandpa, they will be back any minute" she smiled, trying to reassure him.

Ty kissed her cheek and took a breath, then turned to face the two men who stood behind him.

"if Amy is not allowed to come with me to the courthouse in this car, then I will be traveling with her and her family in their truck. " his voice was clear and controlled with no room for negotiation.

"very well sir," the driver said, "if you would please just take your seat so we can be on our way "

Ty smiled a victorious smile, enjoying having a little power for once and motioned yet again for Amy to enter the car. She pursed her lips at him and slid into the back seat, Ty pulling in next to her, his hand still firmly wrapped around hers.

The door shut and the officer spoke briefly with the driver who walked around the other side of the vehicle and slid in behind the steering wheel.

He turned the engine over and the sedan slowly pulled away from the homestead and headed down the drive towards the main gate.

Amy wrapped her arm through Tys and snuggled into his side, She could feel the tension in his body as the car rattled along.

As they passed under the Heartland main gates, the sign swinging gently in the soft breeze, Ty took a deep breath and steadied himself. All he wanted was for a guilty verdict to come back and to have this nightmare finally end.

Amy watched as the car turned onto the main road and headed away from the ranch, she looked over at the driver who held the steering wheel with one hand as he tapped on his in-dash GPS.

"we will be there in around an hour or so ok Mr. Borden," the driver said, setting his route,

"thanks, " Ty said softly, "And its Ty, Just Ty ok"

"no worries Ty, "the driver replied, a smile radiating under his sunglasses as he put his foot down a little and the car picked up speed. "you can call me Lyall"

to be continued