A/N: Adult themes, (Sex scene) Thanks for all the reviews, love the feedback. Stay with me as we pull this story to its climax.:)

Chapter 51

Saturday

Amy looked out of her bedroom window as the morning light crested the round pen. It drew pictures across the main yard of the ranch, dancing with the morning dew drops that hung like ball bearings from the rails. It was a beautiful Saturday Morning, the sky was blue with only small drifts of white clouds fluttering across it. She yawned and stretched her arms, the events of the night before still playing in her mind as she saw a lone figure walk one of the horses from the barn. He tied it to the hitching post and proceeded to groom it with care, brushing its coat in the early morning sun. Amy bit her lip, she wasn't sure if she should go and talk to Ty, he had made it very clear the night before he didn't want to discuss the things she wanted to talk about. From where she stood, at her window, he looked like his old self, his arms patiently covering the brown baes coat, removing the stall dust and dirt. He was dressed in his old blue jeans and a grey tee, one of his motorcycle ones, that had a picture of an old vintage bike on the back. His hair was ruffled in the morning breeze and his shoulders flexed and moved under the material as he continued to attend to his steed.

Amy raised an eyebrow as her mind began to ask her questions, Ty wasn't one of early morning trail rides, especially alone. He liked to ride, but Amy knew that love had come from his wanting to be with her and share her world. She remembered him telling Badger, that if he wanted to be with a horsey girl, he would have to learn how to ride a horse and enjoy it. She smiled to herself, Ty had done that for her, he had asked Mallory to teach him when he first arrived at Heartland and had done the hard yards in learning it too, he had fallen many times, bruised every part of his body and finally now, as a young man in his mid 20s, was a competent rider in his own right.

Amy smiled, she still was angry at him, but she also loved him. He was the one her heart still did somersaults for when he was near. She wanted to tell him it was ok, that the night before was both their faults. If she had simply stopped when he asked her too, maybe it wouldn't have blown up the way it did, maybe Jack wouldn't have had to drag Ty off by the collar to the barn to calm him down. Maybe, just Maybe, she and Ty could have sorted it out themselves and none of this would have ever happened.

Amy turned away from the window, feeling like a stalker for watching him so intently. She pulled on her jacket and grabbed her boots. Pulling them on quickly and tieing her hair into a loose ponytail. She had to try, she thought to herself, maybe if she just spoke to him, and showed him that she was willing to put it behind her, he would finally open up to her.

She remembered in the loft he had tried to tell her something before they went to the courthouse, It had been on the tip of his tongue. And then again last night, he slipped and said he was doing this all for her, for them, She knew in his heart of hearts he wanted to tell her what was plaguing him. But something was holding him back, keeping him quiet, not letting him share it with her.

Amy opened her bedroom door and went to walk out, looking back at the pictures of her and Ty on her dresser, he seemed so happy then, a different time, a different Ty. She sighed and shut the door and slowly walked towards the kitchen which was empty, Amy smiled, and grabbed two apples from the fruit basket and then noticed some fresh blueberry muffins on the counter. She quickly grabbed a paper bag and placed a few inside. A plan formulating in her mind. She turned towards the mudroom door and walked out into the early morning sun. Her eyes looking over to the barn where Ty had now disappeared into, leaving the brown Bae tacked at the rail waiting for him to return.

"you going for a ride,?" she asked as she approached the horse, seeing Ty come out through the barn doors, his jacket now on, and his sunglasses in his hand.

"Um, yeah, I was thinking about it," he said softly, she could see the apprehension in his eyes as he approached her.

"nice morning for it," she said, rubbing the horse's neck as it nickered at her.

"Yeah, "he replied, "I was going to go up to the ridge, and then maybe down along the river through the vale " Ty's voice was soft and calm, he was feeling his way through the conversation. Trying to keep it in the realms of where they needed it to be.

"it will be beautiful up there in the morning light," she smiled, looking back towards him, her voice calm and friendly also.

Ty had slept relatively well after his talk with Jack, he did put that down to exhaustion though, as he had been running on next to nothing most of the day. He had awoken in the early morning and decided that he needed to find some inner quiet, otherwise, he would be a basket case by the time 5 pm came around. His plans hadn't changed, he was still going through with the decision to confront Lyall, if he even showed up that was. But he wanted this day to be a day that he could hold onto. It needed to be a good day with good memories to carry him through.

"I packed you some muffins, "Amy said handing him the brown bag,

He took it, and couldn't help but smile, he unwrapped the top of the bag and looked in, taking a quick smell of the contents.

"blueberry," he said softly, "my favorite"

"well, enjoy your ride," she said, as she tapped the mussel of the horse affectionately and turned to leave, she kicked the soft ground as she slowly started to walk back towards the main house, knowing he was watching her.

"Um, Im happy to share," he called after her, making her stop, "if …. If you'd like to …come"

Amy stood still, she bit her lip, and took a breath, she wanted to talk to him but knew they were both on thin ice as it was.

"only if you want to though, "he continued, his hope failing slightly as she hadn't responded. He shut the muffin bag and put it into his saddlebag, resigning himself to the fact that she may still be mad at him for his outburst.

Amy turned around, the breeze catching her hair and flicking it around her face,

"will you wait while I tack up Spartan?" she said, a small smile playing on her pink lips,

Ty smiled back, tapping Harley on the neck, "I'll do it,"

Amys smile grew as he quickly walked back into the barn, a slight spring in his step. She walked back to Harley and rubbed his muzzle, pressing her head to his.

"you're a good boy aren't ya Harley, "she said softly, the horse nickering at her and nudging his nose into her shoulder. She turned back to see Ty taking Spartan from his stall and give him a quick once over with a brush. He then grabbed his tack and started to get him ready for the ride.

It wasn't long until he lead the black gelding out into the morning sun and handed the reigns to Amy.

"thank you, but I was happy to do it myself "she smiled, giving her steed a hug around the neck.

"I know, but I wanted to" Ty replied, his eyes sparkling as the suns rays crossed his face. He quickly pulled on his glasses and walked around to Harley, a slight awkwardness still sitting between them.

They both mounted and clicked their horses into motion, heading towards the trails and tree line, Amy took the lead and Ty and Harley slotted in behind her as they disappeared from view.


Amy spread the blanket out between two large trees, their limbs bowing over the top of her, heavy with foliage. It caused the morning light to splinter through the leaves, dappling the green grass underfoot with speckles of color.

Ty finished securing Spartan next to Harley down near the open side of the Crestline, the grass was lush there and the horses grazed happily. He walked back towards Amy's little alcove and slowly stood near where she had taken a seat on the rug. He hesitated for a moment, just watching her as the sun bounced off her shoulders and hat, she was beautiful in that light and even after all these years of loving her, he felt like he loved her even more.

Amy looked up at him and smiled the softest of welcoming smiles, tapping the rug next to her. Inviting him to join her.

Ty pulled off his jacket and laid it down on the rug, slowly bending down and taking a seat next to her, keeping a small distance between them. He didn't want to spoil the moment by presuming too much.

He handed her the brown bag with the muffins and leaned back slightly, letting his shoulders take his weight.

"its beautiful up here," she said in a soft whisper, looking out over the ridge, from their hidey hole. This spot held great significance to the two of them, it was one of their favorite places. The ridge and the old jumping course in the vale below were places that Amy held in her heart. She felt at peace when she visited them, the memories that they held were some of her fondest.

"I love it up here," he replied, looking out over the expanse before him, the canopy of branches and leaves acting like a large beach umbrella above them., "its stupid, but I can think up here, it all makes sense somehow when I'm here"

They sat in silence for a little longer, getting lost in the morning glow, all they could hear where the sounds of nature around them, the rustle of the leaves, the faint rumble of the river below, cascading over the rocks and alcoves, the tune of a lark as it called to its mate, trying to draw her too him. It was perfect, Amy thought, all that it needed was for the wall of regret that sat awkwardly between them to finally tumble to the ground.

"I have to say something" she finally said, looking at her hands, knowing that she would either clear the distance or cause him to pull away even further.

"so… do I "he replied, pulling his glasses from his eyes and turning to look at her. Needing the connection to be clear and clean.

Amy held her tongue, not knowing if she should go on. She wasn't sure if he was waiting for her to continue or if he was trying to find the right words to express his own feelings.

The awkwardness grew between them as they sat in silence, neither one knowing which should speak first.

Ty finally broke the deadlock with a soft chuckle and a shake of his head, "this is ridiculous, " he said, running his hand across his chin,

He heard her laugh softly, "look at us, for two people who claim to love each other, we don't seem to be able to talk to each other anymore," she said,

Ty's smile dropped, "claim to love each other," he repeated, his tone quiet and metered, "Is that how you feel, that it's not real, not genuine?"

Amy looked down, unable to look at him, making him feel even more uneasy." it doesn't feel real at the moment, " she whispered, her voice hardly audible.

"ok, "he breathed, swallowing hard, "I'll wear that, " he took a breath and sat forward, clearing his throat, pulling on his courage and turning slightly to look at her. "Ok, I'll go first, I'm sorry Amy, I should never have lost my temper at you like I did last night, It was wrong and I really didn't mean to hurt you like I did,"

He sat quietly, hoping for a response, he had laid it all out before her, exposing himself, showing his heart.

"you told me to leave you alone, "she whispered, "you pushed me away"

Tys head dropped, recalling the argument, a lump in his throat as he remembered his words, "I'm sorry, I didn't mean it, "

"It felt like you did," she replied, looking into his eyes finally, he could see the tears welling as she remembered the argument.

"no, no…I'm so sorry Amy, "he said, pulling closer to her and touching her hands. "You were right ok, the pills where messing with my head, I didn't mean it, any of it"

Amy looked up into Ty's green eyes and saw the honesty for the first time. He did need her, he did want her, his words had been just that, words, said in anger when pushed beyond his limits.

"I'm sorry too, "she finally said, "you asked me to stop, but I didn't, I should have respected your wishes and let it go, "

He smiled at her and cocked his eyebrow playfully, "when do you ever do what I tell you to do Amy?" he grinned at her, but let it fade when he saw her sad smile back.

"that's my problem Ty, I should have let you be when you asked me too, you warned me over and over to not push you, but I kept going, I kept pressuring you until you snapped,"

"Amy, its ok, " he said, turning her face to his, "I needed to snap, I needed to see it for what it was, you made me realize that I needed help, "

She turned back to look out over the ridge, still not convinced her badgering was warranted.

"I gave the pills to Jack, "he said softly, trying to show her he was doing something proactive.

Amy locked eyes with him and smiled a genuine smile, relief in her blue eyes.

"I still feel like I should apologize though, "she said,

Ty took a breath and rolled onto his knees, taking her hands in his and pulling her into the same position in front of him.

"no more sorries ok, "he said, his green eyes locked tightly to hers, "let's just start again, this is a new day, "

Amy nodded and grinned at him, happy to see his Borden smile on full display.

Ty hid the sadness and the foreboding well, it was down deep inside of him, hidden from wanted this day to be special. It had to be perfect. He just wanted one more day with the woman he loved more than life itself, then he would face whatever challenges that were to come. He felt like a condemned man, Waiting for his last visit on death row.

Ty swallowed hard and held his smile, leaning in and pressing his lips to hers softly. He needed her in that moment, she was his safe place, and he was desperate to find some salvation.

Amy slowly wrapped her arms around his neck and pulled herself onto his lap, holding the kiss as he felt her push it past innocence. Ty ran his hands up her back and let them play with her ponytail, gently pulling the tie from her hair, setting her hair free to fall through his fingers and down her back.

He heard her giggle as she continued the assault on his lips, her hands grabbing bunch fulls of his hair and controlling his head to keep the connection.

They made out for what felt like all morning, finally breaking apart to breathe. Ty licked his bottom lip and smiled at her, his hand pushing a rogue strand of hair from her flushed face.

"wow," he said, "we should fight more often"

Amy glared at him and straightened herself up on his lap, allowing him to pull his legs forward so he wasn't kneeling under her. She now sat across his waist, her legs straddling him like he was her horse. Ty pulled up his knees so she could lean on them and reclined his torso back against the soft incline behind them. His eyes on hers, as he let his hands run up her thighs.

"I love you Ty Borden" Amy finally said, looking down at him from where she perched. Her hand on his chest.

"you love me? Or just claim to love me?" he grinned,

"shut up!" she growled, leaning down and kissing him softly, grabbing his bottom lip in her teeth and nipping at it in play.

"ok, she loves me" he retorted, smiling up at her, lost in the moment, the darkness now well and truly kept at bay.

She grinned at him cheekily and undid her top button, her eyes never leaving his as she saw his surprised yet excited look.

"Amy, "he laughed, looking around the ridgeline, "we are outside, what if…."

"when have you ever seen anyone up here Ty?" she challenged, a seductive smile on her lips,

"but your Dad, Big Rivers boundary is just over that rise, and ….." he argued, but her lips on his stopped him and he felt her kiss pull him in again.

He felt her hands slide under his tee and she ran kisses across his jaw and nuzzled into his neck. Her lips finding all his secret spots and exploiting them,

"hey, Hey," he whispered, losing the battle as she walked his tee up his torso, exposing his abdomen and chest. Her hands pulling it up over his head and ruffling his hair.

"Amy, I… don't think this is a good idea" he stammered, his eyes suddenly flickering shut as he let out a small groan, Her lips had found his earlobe, and he felt his body succumb to concede defeat.

Amy gently pushed him back onto the rug between the two large trees. They were hidden from view by the low hanging foliage, their little alcove a perfect hideaway from the world.

She latched onto his lips again, this time the kiss was hot and heavy, bringing him along with her, the electricity like livewires between them. He couldn't fight it, no matter how hard he tried, his hands ran across her shoulders as she undid the buttons on her shirt, letting it slide down her arms. She sat on top of him. In her bra and faded blues, looking down onto his bare torso, catching her breath as her hands drew pictures in his chest hair.

"you love me?" she said, her eyes a vibrant blue,

"yes," he said, "more than you'll ever know"

A sultry smile crossed her lips as she slowly stood up and undid her belt buckle,

"Amy, " Ty said softly, his eyes looking past the overhanging tree and down towards where the horses grazed quietly.

This was more risqué then they had ever played before, he couldn't say he wasn't turned on by the idea of a little love under the shade of an evergreen and the prospect of getting caught did add some spice and excitement. But the idea of having Tim or worse Jack ride over the crest of that rise sent shivers down his spine.

"this is insane Amy, what if someone …." he said, lifting himself up slightly on his elbows,

"shh, "she said, her eyes still locked onto his, as she stood before him the overhang of the tree at her back, the light danced over her bare shoulders and the leaves moved above her in the morning breeze. She picked up her shirt and tied it around her waist by its arms while she slid her jeans down her tanned thighs,

Ty inhaled and watched her come back over to him. Taking her seat on his hips as she had before, this time only clad in her bra and newly fashioned shirt skirt.

He shut his eyes as he felt her body rest onto his, his breathing now slow and deep, he was lost in his own thoughts as he felt her hands slide down his bare chest and unclip his belt buckle.

Ty's breath hitched in his throat as his eyes opened again and he watched her undo his jeans. He laid himself back down and let his hands slide up her thighs as he felt her reposition herself slightly above him. Amy slowly pulled his jeans and boxers until they were low on his hips and out of the way. Then as she reached forward and grabbed a handful of his hair, she pulled him up to meet her, his arms wrapping around her bare back. In one fluid movement, Amy released her hips, lowering herself onto him completely letting his body find hers.

Ty gasped and buried his head into her chest, completely overwhelmed by the sensation and the excitement he was feeling, she had him on the edge after only a few slow movements of her hips.

"No no., "he whispered, placing his hands on her hips to stop them from moving, his breathing now deep and through his nose. His eyes shut tight as he tried to think of anything but what was happening. "stay still, "he breathed, "just for a moment, "

Amy giggled, feeling him shudder as he fought to stay in control. His excitement levels at a fever pitch. She rocked her body slightly and heard him groan again, his hands tightening on her hips.

She heard him chuckle and suck air through his teeth, his head still on her chest, "that's not staying still"

"I can go, you want me to go?" she teased, pulling up slightly from him and feeling his hands clamp around her buttocks.

"no, I,….Didn't say go, I….said stay still" he corrected, looking up at her, a slight shudder in his voice,

"oh, my mistake, "she grinned, lowering herself onto him again, making him roll his eyes and hiss through his smile,

He shook his head and bit his lip as he felt her rock her hips again, she was tormenting him beyond belief and he was only just managing to hold onto his resolve.

He knew he was losing the battle so decided to play her at her own game, and pull some of this control back his way. He looked up at her and locked his lips to hers, distracting her from his hand that slowly slipped between her thighs.

Amy broke the kiss when she saw his cheeky grin and raised her eyebrow at him as he started very slowly to turn the tables on her. She shut her eyes as his hand did its wonders, pulling her to the edge along with him. Amy sighed and rocked her hips again, this time she continued the rhythm in line with his attention, both of them losing themselves to the love that was between them as the late morning sun sprayed its rays across the trees.


Mallory meandered along on Copper in the midmorning sun, She had come to see Amy for a jumping lesson, but had been informed by Jack that Amy and Ty had gone for an early morning ride. Mallory, not one to listen to warnings of leaving people alone and letting people have their privacy had decided to follow them on their ride and hope to catch up with them when they headed towards the river crossing. Copper slowly plodded along, his hooves splashing in the cool waters of the crossing. It was a beautiful morning and Mallory was in the best of moods. She looked up at the ridge that crested well above her. Not sure if she should follow the river to the old jumping grounds that she and Ty had made for Amy years ago or head up the ridge trail in the off chance they may still be over the creat line at the top of the rise.

Mallory considered both options carefully. The ride to the jumping ground was an easy trail, the way was flat and followed the river, Copper could take his time and enjoy the ride. The ridge was a tougher track, it undulated and turned and cut through some rather rocky outcrops. Copper was old and she didn't want to stress him out by pushing his limits. She took a deep breath, and then looked across the vale, raising her eyebrows, she could just canter across the open vale and slowly make her way to the crest. It would take longer, but it would be an easy ride. It was a nice day and if Ty and Amy came down from the ridge she would see them easily from this route.

Mallory kicked Copper on and headed towards the vale, making her decision and acting on it.


Amy snuggled into Ty side as he let his head fall against hers. They had fallen asleep in each other's arms, the soft breeze tussling at his hair as the leaves above them moved and swayed.

Amy was curled up under his arm, clad only in her bra and makeshift skirt, her bare legs wrapped around Tys. He looked down at her, a smile playing on his lips as he pulled a strand of hair from across her face.

He still had on his jeans, albeit it they were undone and slightly lower than normal. His boxers exposed at the front.

His bare chest rose and fell as Amy's hand rested on it. He couldn't imagine a more perfect moment. The woman he loved at his side, the view of the Rockies expanding out from their hidden little love nest. The sounds of nature and tranquility around them.

He shut his eyes, letting his mind relax and enjoy the serenity until he heard a voice, distant at first, but undeniably recognizable.

Tys eyes flew open and he sat up, sliding Amy from his chest and crawling to the far end of their blanket, He pushed back the leaves and his mouth dropped open as he saw Mallory riding slowly up the rise towards their very location.

"Jesus!" he exclaimed, his hands grabbed the front of his jeans as he felt two hand slide around his hips, he leaned back and Amy kissed his cheek, smiling at him happily.

He took hold of her chin and turned her face back towards the voice, and he saw her eyes go from happy and content to large and surprised.

"what is she doing up here!" she exclaimed, spinning around quickly and realizing that she was practically naked and couldn't find her panties.

Ty had already started to pull on his tee as the voice got louder, she was no more than a few hundred yards away now, and as of yet, still oblivious to their hiding spot.

"Ty!"Amy called in a whisper, looking around frantically, "where are my undies!"

He looked back at her and couldn't help but smile, she was bouncing around the blanket pulling it at the corners, trying to find her missing item.

Ty picked up her jeans and threw them at her, laughing under his breath. "here, put these on quick,"

Amy glared at him and pulled her jeans on, zipping them up quickly and untieing her shirt from around her waist, She shook it out and pulled it on, it looked a bit crinkled but at least she was covered,

"hey Spartan "Mallory said, jumping from Copper and walking over to where Ty had secured Spartan and Harley , they were still grazing happily on the other side of the small clearing on the top of the ridge.

She patted Spartan and then ran her hand down Harley's mussel. She looked around the clearing, not seeing their riders.

"Amy!" she called watching the surrounds, "Ty!"

Mallory secured Copper and started to walk slowly towards the tree line on the far side of the ridge. It was where the track from the road entrance finished, up. Ty had shown her the way to get to the ridge via truck when they had gone out looking for one of the client horses who had got out a few weeks back. She knew he always parked the GMC on the crest and had told her the view was best from up there. Slowly she walked across the open grass, letting the strands of wildflowers play against her fingers as she called again.

"Hello, Amy. TY, !" she said," were are those guys "


Amy straightened her self up and looked at Ty, as they both pulled the blanket up and picked up their belongings. Ty quickly kicked with his boots across the flattened grass where they had been laying and ruffed it up, trying to hide the obvious evidence that they had been there for some time.

He coughed and shook his head as Amy ran her fingers through his messed up hair, Ty pulled leaves from hers and gave her a quick kiss as they quickly emerged from the tree line and walked out into the mid-morning sun.

Amy quickly pulled in behind him and waved as Mallory caught sight of them and quickened her pace.

"hey guys, there you are" she smiled, running over to them as they came down the embankment slightly to meet her, Ty taking Amy's hand so she wouldn't fall.

"hey, Mallory, "Ty smiled, "why you up here, is everything ok?"

Mallory eyed him suspiciously as she noted Amys messed up hair and Tys over friendly smile.

"I was looking for you guys, "she said, coming to stand in front of them, watching Ty guide her back towards the horses who were grazing further down.

"We were just, "he said, looking at Amy who held the picnic rug to her chest, along with the bag of squashed muffins.

"a picnic, "she said, "we were up in the shade of the trees, just enjoying the morning sun"

"A picnic, "Mallory said, smiling at the both of them as they smiled at her uneasily.

"Yeah, "Ty said, "you know this is one of my favorite spots," he turned back to Amy who nodded and hugged his side in agreeance,

"well, we were just about to head back, it's getting kinda late, " Ty continued, sidestepping past Mallory and walking quickly over to Harley.

Mallory giggled and looked at a clearly embarrassed Amy,

"um, he knows your um….intimates are hanging from his back pocket right?" she said, pointing to Ty's jeans as he lead Harley from the tree he was attached too.

Amys' eyes widened and she quickly ran up behind Ty and grabbed her panties from his rear, showing him as he turned and exchanged embarrassed glares with her. She quickly scrunched them up and shoved them into her own pocket as Mallory came down to them and smiled a cheeky smile.

"you two are …." she said, taking Copper and mounting her horse, "I have no words!"

With that, she kicked him into motion and Amy turned to see Ty chuckling to himself as he went to mount up. "well that's a first,"

"it's not Funny !" she glared at him. her face still pink

"hey, don't blame me, "he laughed, "you said no one comes up here, I tried to warn you"

"shut up," she said, a soft smile on her pink cheeks.

They mounted their steeds and followed after the little blonde on her chestnut as she started to decent the ridge heading for the river below and then back on to Heartland.


When they finally returned to the barn, the sun was nearly at its apex. Amy brushed down Spartan and put him in his stall, Mallory had convinced her to do some basic jumps practice in the big pen so Ty watched them for a while then got Amy's attention.

The afternoon was rolling in and he knew it wouldn't be long until he had to put his plan into action. He had figured out a way to get to the old ranch without using his truck or having to ask someone to drive him. He had spent an exceptional morning with Amy, and although it was a little bittersweet for him. He had managed to convince her that all was ok and that life was back to normal. He needed her to believe that he was fine, that everything was great and that she need not worry about him anymore. He had hidden his anxiety over the events to come well. He hated deceiving her. But at least this way, she would be safe.

If everything went to plan, Lyall would be behind bars with Ben and Ben would finally get the sentence he deserved. He watched Amy guide Mallory around the jumps. A soft smile playing on his handsome face. His eyes were covered by his sunglasses so she didn't see the sadness that ran through them. There was a chance, and he was very aware of it that this night may not go in his favor, Lyall may not turn up, He could be double-crossed or worse yet it may come down to a standoff between the two of them. He knew he didn't stand a chance if it came to that, Lyall was a trained hitman, his only way of surviving this was to catch him by surprise.

"Amy." he called, bringing her over to him at the fence, where he kissed her softly, "I need to renew my script for my eyedrops, can you drive me into Hudson,"

She nodded and touched his cheek, "I'll be 5 mins and then we can go"

He smiled at her again and slowly walked back to the barn. Running up the stairs and going to his bedside drawer. He fumbled through some papers and found what he was looking for.

Hudson medical center – Eyedrops 10ml. He folded it in half and shoved it in his pocket, then looked at the other one behind it.

Hudson medical center – Xanax Tablets .5m, 30 tablets, 2nd repeat.

He sighed and looked at the time, 1:35 pm, he folded the script and pushed it into his pocket as well, a look of guilt and indecision on his face. He took a breath and ran back down the stairs as Amy smiled at him as she came from the main house.

"You ready, "she said, heading for the GMC,

"as I'll ever be" he replied, his voice a little low, but his smile wide.


Amy and Ty returned from Hudson not long after 3, Their trip had been mostly uneventful with Ty managing to steel away from her for while when she went to see Soraya at Maggie's. He had kept his real agenda quiet and after he had completed his required stops in Hudson he returned to the diner to once again play the happy carefree boyfriend,

The drive back was filled with idle chit-chat and talks about the morning embarrassment and how Mallory always turned up in the wrong place at the wrong time.

Tys mind was calm during this time period, he knew the day was winding down and the ball in his gut was slowly starting to churn but he knew this to be inevitable. The wheels were now in motion and he had to see it through.

He met up with Amy one last time that afternoon when she was in the barn office going through her mother's journals, trying to find a remedy she may have missed for a bitey horse.

He slowly walked through the door, not wanting to disturb her, she looked so cute lost in thought, her head down reading through the journals before her, she nonchalantly tapped her cheek with the end of her pencil, her mouth softly whispering the words on the page.

"did you find anything to help"he asked, coming in and standing before her, his hands in his jeans pockets ,

"yeah, seems that there could be a few reasons, I may need to call Scott to take a look at her teeth" she said, not really looking up from her studies, "she was vetted before they bought her, but I'm starting to think they may have missed something"

"I could take a look, "he said softly, "I know I'm, not Scott, but I'd be happy to help"

Amy looked up at him and smiled, this was the first time since he had come home from the fire that he had offered to help with anything vet related. She didn't want to push him, due to the burns on his hands and such, but she couldn't contain her happiness at his willingness to try and assist.

"what?" he smiled, "why are you smiling at me like that?"

"no reason, "she said, shutting her journal and standing up, "It would be great if you could have a look at her for me, "

He nodded and headed out to the barn, Amy not able to hide her smile of satisfaction as she followed.

They spent some time with the filly checking doing different checks and measures. Ty ran his hands along her fetlocks and felt for swelling and heat, but found none, he lifted her feet and pressed the frog in each, but again the usual response came back to him.

After Amy secured the bae with a lead rope he checked her teeth, and mouth but again the mystery prevailed.

Amy looked at him as he stood back looking at the horse as a whole, mulling all his findings over in his head.

"so, Dr. Borden," she said, "what is your prognosis"

"well, there's no signs of anything wrong with her, "he said rubbing his chin, "she looks really well cared for. "but maybe Scott will see something I'm not"

"well, I'm going to go ahead with the behavioral side of her therapy, I trust your call that she's fighting fit" Amy replied. Leading the filly to the rail and securing her.

"Amy, Id still call Scott, I'm not a vet yet," he said softly, "and with all the study and pracs I've missed, well I may never be"

She walked over to him and put her hands around his neck, pulling him into a soft kiss, "you will be a vet TY Borden, your still on the course and although you've missed a bit, you will catch up"

He looked down, his smile uncertain, "thank you, I needed to hear that, "

"anytime. "she grinned, kissing him again,"so what would the doctor like to do this tonight? Watch a movie? "she rand her hands down his chest and grabbed the top of his jeans "do some examinations?"

He chuckled and kissed her back, seeing the cheekiness in her blue eyes "no, I think we covered that this morning, "

Amy pouted and hugged him, letting her body snuggle into his, He loved it when she was close like that, It was like time stopped in those precious moments. He held her, not wanting to let her go, his eyes taking on a sadness, he knew this could be one of the last moments he could possibly have with her.

Amy looked up at him and caught the sad tinge in his eyes, she stopped her hug and looked at him. Her eyes searching his for an explanation.

"hey, what's with the sad look, you ok," she asked,

TY coughed and pushed the thoughts that were confronting him to the back of his mind yet again, he pulled on his best fake smile and laughed a soft laugh, "nothing, I'm fine, I'm just worried about my studies is all, helping you today has made me realise I need to put more time into them" he placated himself by knowing that his comment, being a cover was actually true so technically, not a lie. He was worried about how much of his courses he had missed and how much practical time on the job he had lost with Scott, but that was not the reason for the saddened look. He didn't like to lie to her, even though he had been doing it over and over again the past few weeks, but at least this time, it was more a deflection than a lie.

"you will be fine Ty, "she soothed, "Scott said you could come back to the clinic as soon as your fit enough, "

He nodded and smiled at her again, she was his own personal aphrodisiac. Just looking at her made him feel like he could do or achieve anything. And with what he knew he needed to do this night, he needed that strength she gave him.

"so, that movie?" she said, snuggling up to him again, "I'll make popcorn?"

He grinned at her and kissed her cheek, "I love you, you know that right,"

"I love you too," she replied, the wind playing with her hair as it flicked around her face.

Ty pulled her into one last hug, not wanting to let her go, burying his head in her shoulder and drinking in her essence.

"hey, " Amy pulled away slightly, now convinced something was wrong, "why are you like this, your nearly in tears,"

Ty took a breath and recentered himself, touching her cheek yet again, he knew his defenses were cracking, and if he didn't pull it in he was going to expose himself and his plans.

"I just, I just want you to know that no matter where I am or what I do I will always love you, "he blurted, his lip twitching slightly as his eyes locked to hers, "just know that you are everything to me, and everything I do is for you"

Now Amy was really perplexed, this outburst of emotion had taken her by surprise.

"Ty, what if going on, you look so serious," she asked,

He smiled at her and hugged her again, "nothing, I'm good, "he laughed, "just getting caught up in the moment"

She smiled at him coyly, kissing his cheek, "your such a marshmallow,"

Ty's cheeks flushed and he walked with her towards the gate of the pen, opening it and escorting her through.

"so, the movie?" she asked again, "Ill get a rom-com since you seem so romantically inclined today"

He rubbed his chin and nodded, "ok, ok, I've got some tutes to watch on equestrian digestion first though so I'll catch up with you in an hour or so,"

"ok, so after dinner then?" she asked slowly walking back to the house, watching him as she walked backward,

"Yeah, tell Lou to save me some dinner ok, I really need to get these tutes down, "he lied, slowly turning back towards the barn,

She waved and turned around walking happily towards the main house, oblivious to Ty watching her walk away from him. The sadness in his eyes yet again.

He took a breath and shook his head, he needed to push these feelings down, they were not going to be any help to him in tonight.


The sun was starting to decline over the Hartland Ranch, the horses grazed in the fields, the cows bellowed and called as they walked the pastures. It was going to be yet another beautiful clear night. Ty paced the loft, it was just past 4 and he knew his time was running out.

Amy and the family would be all busily setting up for dinner around about now, so he knew that at least would keep her busy.

She wasn't expecting him until after the meal so this gave him a window of time where she wouldn't worry about his whereabouts.

He ran his hands through his hair and pushed the air out between his teeth, his nerves were taking hold now. The ball in his gut was churning and making him feel like he was going to vomit.

He walked over to the bedside and grabbed the small white bag he had got from the pharmacy when he was in Hudson earlier, he tipped the contents out onto the bed, and grabbed the eyes drop bottle, he walked over to the mirror and applied them, blinking heavily as the excess liquid ran down his cheeks. It cleared his vision and made the world look less muted as his eyes welcomed the relief. After dabbing his cheeks with a tissue he went back to the bed and picked up the small orange bottle. He rolled it around in his fingers, mad at himself for yet again deceiving Amy and Jack over his need for these little white pills.

He popped the lid and tipped 4 into his hand. Hesitating as he looked at the label. {take one to two tablets every 5 hours for management of pain as prescribed}

He ran his thumb over the warning on the back of the bottle, {take only as prescribed by your medical practitioner – excessive or misuse of this medication can result in dependency}

Ty exhaled and shut his eyes, this was the last time. He told himself.

He pushed the four white pills into his mouth and swallowed hard, then grabbed a bottled water from his bedside. He sculled it down, barely letting it touch the sides as he did. Throwing the empty container onto the floor when he was done. He shut his eyes and tried to calm himself, he could feel himself shaking.

Slowly he walked over to the dresser an opened the drawer, he rummaged around through the clothes and found the white canvas bag he was looking for. He had retrieved it from his truck during the early hours of the morning the day before. He held the bag in his hands, Its weight foreign to him. Slowly he walked back to the bed and sat down, reaching inside and letting his shaking hand wrap around the cold metal that was inside.

TY took another shaky breath and took the guns weight in his hand. It felt cold and unfriendly to his touch. It wasn't something he was used to carrying.

He checked the magazine and saw it was loaded. He shut his eyes, steadying himself as he checked the safety was on and pushed it into the back of his jeans, chucking the rest of the bullets Rolly had given him on the bedspread. He pulled on a black canvas jacket and stood still for a few minutes to center himself, then headed quickly down the loft stairs.

It was still daylight outside as the sun was slowly descending to its rest. Ty quietly walked to the front of the barn and looked through the door. The lights were on at the house and he could see shadows of people and movement through the windows. Dinner set up was well under way. He noted by the amout of vehicles out the front that Jack was home as was Amy and the big black ATV meant that Peter was still around as well.

He pulled back slightly as he saw Tims truck barrel down the drive and park next to Jacks, Ty bit his lip as he watched Tim get out of the truck and pull on his hat, as he sauntered towards the front door of the house. He hadn't spoken to Tim since their altercation over the dinner table which had resulted in heated words and punches being thrown. In that moment, Ty was relieved he wasn't actually going to attend that dinner. The idea of a face to face with Tim and his accusations wasn't high on his tolerance agenda.

Ty stepped back inside and pulled the barn door shut. He hit the light panel and turned on the barn lights. Illuminating the outside and the stalls with light. Slowly he walked over to Harley's stall and ran his hand down his brown nose, scratching him under the lip. His horse nickered at him and nudged him affectionately.

"hey Harley,"Ty whispered, as he unbolted the stall and lead him to the cross lines to secure him. He gave him a quick brush over and tacked him up, turning him towards the rear doors of the barn. Ty pulled the door open as Harley snorted and pushed him in the back. Ty stepped out into the area behind the barn, and looked out over the back fields, he quickly ran down to the rear gate of the backfield and pulled it open and then returned to Harley who was waiting patiently for him near some hay bales. Ty tapped Harley on the rump and quickly closed the rear barn door behind them. He mounted and kicked his steed into motion and trotted off through the open gate.


"Tim, "Jack said, raising his eyebrow as his x son in law came through the door.

"Jack, "Tim replied, his voice low, not knowing if he was going to be warmly received.

Amy turned to him from the table as she placed down the cutlery. Her expression cold.

"Amy, could we talk, " Tim said,

She looked at him with contempt. And slowly walked into the kitchen after him.

"I owe you an apology," Tim said softly, "I acted out of turn the last time I was here and I feel terrible about it"

Amys blue eyes glared at him. "you shouldn't be apologizing to me, " she finally said, "I wasn't the one you hit,"

Tim pulled off his hat, and looked away, "I know, I know, and I'm going to talk to Ty too, but I just wanted to square things away with you,"

Amy was still mad at her father, his actions had been overzealous and wrong. She wanted to forgive him, but, the anger still simmered in her over his inability to get past blaming Ty for everything that had transpired.

"you hit him, dad, you blamed him for everything and then you hit him!" she stated.

Tim looked down, hat in his hand, "I know, and I regret it ok, I just saw red, I saw you in danger and I needed to blame someone, I needed to hold someone accountable. "

Amy stared at her dad, not knowing what to say. The awkwardness between them mounting with each second.

"I take it you're staying for dinner?" Jack interrupted,

Tim looked back at the older cowboy and pleaded silently for help.

"is Ty joining us, Amy?" Jack asked, looking towards the mudroom door,

"um no grandpa, he's got study to catch up on, he said he'd come by a little later and maybe watch a movie, I've asked Lou to save him some lasagna"

"Fair enough, "Jack smiled, "good to see him back at the books, "

Amy smiled and nodded, avoiding her father's eyes.

Jack picked up a plate from the pile and shot Amy a questioning look " so do I set an extra place for your father or do I see him to the door?"

Tim sighed, knowing Jack was true to his word. This was Amy's decision.

"set the place, "she finally said, "but I mean it, dad, if you so much as look at Ty the wrong way I want you gone!"

Tim nodded, exhaling softly, happy to be given a reprieve. "I'll go apologize now,"

"no, "Amy cut in, touching his arm "he's studying, leave him be, you can see him when he comes over later, if your still around"

Tim nodded and went into the lounge, agreeing to her terms.

"you ok?" Jack asked, touching Amy's shoulder and smiling at her softly.

"Yeah, I'll be fine, I just don't want him going over there and forcing Ty into a confrontation. Today has been a good day, and I don't want that ruined"

"I understand, "Jack replied, "so, the ride this morning, worked out well, put you both back on the same page?"

Amy grinned, remembering the morning, her cheeks flushing slightly, "yeah, we're on the same page, he told me he gave you the pills, "

Jack nodded, "I'll watch him, Amy, he hasn't asked for any today, which is a good sign, "he said, "he did say he's having trouble sleeping though, so I have a feeling he may need some help with that tonight,"

"I know, he told me as much, "She replied," I'm still worried about him, but he tells me it's under control, so I need to trust him"

Jack nodded and put his arm around her, "yes you do, "


Ty pulled Harley out of his gallop and came to a stop in front of the trailer, it was deserted and looked like it hadn't had anyone attend to it in some time.

He dismounted and lead Harley over to the small coral, untacking him and putting the tack in the shed. He gave him a half a bale of hay that Caleb had left in the shed from the days when Shorty used to reside there and filled up the water tough.

"there you go Harley, "he said, patting him gently and letting him wander off into the coral.

Ty walked back into the shed and looked at his watch, it was just after 4:40 and he was rapidly running out of time. He steadied himself and took a few deep breaths then walked over to the rear of the shed and pulled up an old tarp. A slight smile crept across his face as his Norton came into view. He grabbed his helmet, and pulled it on, along with his gloves.

Ty stopped for a moment, as his head spun slightly, the drugs making him feel like he was under water. He was enjoying the quiet, his nerves were gone, but the muted bubble that surrounded him made him slightly disorientated. He shook his head to clear it and pushed the Norton out into the early evening air. He took one last look at Harley and kicked it over, revving it into action as he threw his leg over and rode off down the road.

to be continued