Chapter 53
Ty spent the next two weeks getting stronger, his lungs had all but cleared, he was once again able to breathe with little incumbency and after one last visit to the hospital for a lung capacity test and reassess, he was finally given the all clear to get behind the wheel. This in its self-had made him the happiest, his house arrest days were finally over, and he couldn't wait to finally get some of his independence back. He drove back from the hospital, Jack at his side, feeling free for the first time in weeks. His smile unable to be hidden as he walked through the mudroom door, Lou and Lisa smiling back at him from the kitchen.
"so, by the looks of that smile, I'd say the appointment went well, "Lisa asked, Tys eyes alive with excitement, Jack also unable to hide his grin.
"Yes, I got the all clear, "Ty chimed in, taking a glass of water from Jack as he offered it to him, "I still need to use the inhaler at night when required, but apart from that, Im good to go!"
"that's wonderful Ty, Im so pleased, "Lou butted in, coming over to him and giving him a hug, "so, there's no permanent damage to your lungs? then? "
Ty looked at Jack, and took a sip of his water, "um no, there's a small scar on the lower lobe of my left lung, but the doc thinks it will fade with time, I've still got to do the breathing exercises, but I feel good Lou, so, yeah, this is a good thing"
Lisa touched his shoulder, congratulating him, she knew how much he wanted to get his life and his independence back.
"um where's, Amy? "Ty asked, "I noticed the wrangler isn't in the yard?"
"she's out near High River doing a consult, she should be back later this afternoon. "Lou explained.
Ty looked a little disappointed, he wanted to share his good news with her, and possibly convince her to go out on the town with him as well. A night out was something he had been craving for days. His aim, to invite Caleb, and possibly Soraya and Skyler and make a celebration of his healthy liberation.
"Um I might just go and …" he smiled, motioning to his cell as they all nodded and watched him walk out towards the lounge.
Jack came over to Lisa and gave her a gentle hug, "how did it go with the lawyers?"
"Good Jack, the feedback was positive, and I really think that this is the best way to move forward, not only for Ty but for Lucky as well"
Lou nodded, Lisa had brought her into the plan not long after her discussion with Ty over his reluctance to take over the reins of his father's company. That bravado he had had back when he first found out about the inheritance had suffered a severe blow, his confidence in himself and his abilities had been rocked. And Lisa was well aware that it was going to take time to get him back up to where he needed to be to be a successful CEO.
"well that's good, "Jack replied, keeping his tone down, hearing Ty's voice talking on the phone from the lounge. "so, when are you going to tell him, "
"well, I was waiting until he felt stronger, but maybe that's now, he's been cleared by the doctors, so I don't see the board having any issues with this going ahead sooner than later "she stopped, her eyes on Ty as he walked back and forth, his smile now a little playful as he discussed his evening out idea with Amy. "I've told the board what I have suggested, they all seem pretty on board with it."
"and Thomas? "Lou asked, "he could make this difficult you know, and Ty doesn't seem keen to cross him"
"You leave Thomas to me, ok, "Lisa smiled, "I have Louis on side, now after our skype meeting last week, and Kyia, well she has not shown any resistance through her advisors, so I don't see this being difficult at all"
Jack nodded, his eyes on Ty as he came back to join them, the look of accomplishment on his features denoting that he had got his way in regard to his nighttime plans.
"So, I take it Amy said yes to going out?" Jack questioned
TY grinned, not needing to speak, the answer written in his eyes.
"TY, Could I possibly have a few minutes, there's something we would like to discuss with you, "Lisa cut in quickly, her eyes jumping from Ty to Lou and finally landing on Jack who gave her a gentle smile of support.
"Um, Yeah, "Ty replied, he was a little curious, Lisa expression taking him by surprise. "that sounds rather ominous, is everything ok?"
"Yes, yes, "Lisa said, placing her hand on his shoulder and guiding him towards the lounge. TY following her, his expression a little apprehensive now. Jack and Lou also joining them as they sat down in front of the hearth.
"what's going on guys?" Ty asked "if this is about me going out, Im good ok, the doc said Im fine"
Lisa smiled at the young man, she sat next to him, her pale blue eyes now locking to his.
"do you remember the conversation we had in the loft, where you voiced your concerns at taking over as CEO."
Ty's smile faded, he looked at his hands, not aware that this discussion had been shared, "that was private Lisa, "he said softly, feeling a little betrayed, He had trusted her with his insecurities, now finding out she had shared them with Jack and Lou without his prior knowledge.
"Im sorry Ty, I only told Jack and Lou, because I thought they may be able to help me. "She touched his shoulder again, pulling his eyes back to hers. "I explained to you then that I may have a way to solve this, to give you what you want and to also ensure Lucky is ultimately looked after too"
Tys eyes filled with curiosity now, wanting her to go on.
"I've been talking to my lawyers and a consulting firm that Lou put me onto in New York, "Lisa explained, "this is why it took me a little while to get back to you with this, I needed to make sure it was viable"
Lisa looked at Lou, who smiled at Ty as his eyes came over to her, "Brandle and Swanson are based in New York, I used to work with one of their subsidiaries, Strickland investments when I was at college, you know part-time while I got my MBA"
Ty nodded, knowing Lou had spent a few years away from Heartland in her early twenties, going to college and attaining her degree. Only returning to Heartland after her mother had passed away.
"Well, Lisa told me about your concerns, in regard to Lucky and your role there, "Lou explained, seeing Tys eyes turn a little guarded at this vocalization. "And well, I... spoke to the lead principle at Brandle, that being Solomon Brandle himself."
Ty saw how excited Lou was becoming., He didn't know where they were going with this. The connection to his own problems still not being made clear.
"what has this got to do with Lucky and my role there?" he asked, "I don't understand how this affects me or …."
"Solomon is a very well-known consultant, especially in big business and the corporate arena. I told him about Lucky and showed him the future prospectus, and well, he's interested, "Lou smiled
Ty opened his mouth, looking a little worried now, not liking where this was going, "I …. no, Lou, I said I was a little worried I wasn't up to running the thing, not that I wanted to unload it, "he went to stand up, trying to pull out of this conversation, "I can't sell Lou, my father wanted me to…."
"No Ty, "Lisa quickly said, taking his arm and making him sit down again, "we don't want you to sell, I know you would never agree to that, "
"so, what is this about? Why are you pulling this Solomon guy into all of this," he asked? His defenses rising now. Not knowing what to think.
"Settle son," Jack said softly, "hear her out ok,"
"Look, Brandle and Swanson are willing to assist you and Lucky by offering you a consultation management package. They give you prospective consultants to interview for the role of your standing CEO at Lucky."
Ty looked confused, "I…I don't …but Im the CEO, well, Im going to be aren't I"
"yes, as it stands, that is right, but Ty, you don't have to run to the company from that level. "Lisa turned in her chair, trying to make him understand "if you appoint a CEO from Brandle's consultants, you can figurehead the company and let them run it for you. "
Ty looked at his hands, trying to absorb what Lisa was saying.
"this CEO consult would be your voice, your mouthpiece, he, or she would act on your behalf, fulfilling your vision on how Lucky is to be run, but giving you the freedom to also live your own life. You said no one had ever asked you what you wanted to do, well, this is your chance, you could still fulfill your obligation to your father by owning the Lucky Empire and being the face of the Lucky name, but also pursue your own dreams and desires. Be it within Lucky or elsewhere,"
Ty rubbed his face, trying to make it all make sense. Was this a way out for him, Had Lisa found him the loophole he was looking for.
"You could learn from them Ty, we would ensure the consultant was experienced and that way if you chose to take the company yourself when you're ready, you…"
"I'd still have a say though, I'd still be able to …" Ty asked, considering this now,
"of course, TY, "Lou said, "the consult would be your voice, but you would still make all the major decisions, they would ultimately report to you, "
"and you know this company, "TY asked "I've been lied to so many times Lou, I would need to know that they, that they had my back. "
"I know Solomon really well Ty, he is trustworthy, and his reputation is paramount to him, whoever he recommends to you as the consult, will be someone of the highest caliber"
Ty stood up, he walked towards the hearth and turned away from them, his mind filled with questions and consideration.
"This is your call Ty, I would never make you do anything you weren't happy or comfortable with "Lisa finally said, "but this may be a way for you to have the best of both worlds. "
Ty turned around, his green eyes on the three people who he now loved like family,
"If… if I say yes to this, how would this work? What would I need to do?"
"Solomon would love to meet you, so I suppose we would fly out to New York and have a talk with him, you could look over the contract, and the CVs of the prospective Consults and then take it from there" Lisa Said,
"New York" Ty whispered.
"it would only be for a couple of days until your happy to go ahead, I could come with you if you like, that way we can make sure this is set up perfectly to suit your requirements"
TY remained silent, his mind in overdrive now. This sounded too good to be true, could he really just take a step back and let someone run the company for him, in his image, allowing him to live his life and still make his father wish for him come true.
"what about the board, won't they want me to take the role, it was part of the agreement after all" He challenged.
"Actually Ty, the agreement was that you take over the titles that your father vacated by his death, that role was indeed CEO of Lucky Holdings, but he also held the title of Owner, operator. You're still going to be the owner Ty, you're just appointing a consultant to run the company on your behalf. You make the decisions the consultant makes it happen "
Ty nodded, the pieces all falling into place, his gaze fell on Jack who was still watching him closely,
"what do you think Jack, I'd like to hear your thoughts"
Jack smiled, humbled by the way Ty held his opinion in such high regard. "well son, I think this is a way for you to finally get some clarity on where you want your life to go. Be it with or away from Lucky, "
"so, you think it's a good idea, appointing a consult as CEO, having them as my acting voice. "Ty asked,
"I think it's worth considering, but its ultimately your decision," Jack replied.
"so, do you want me to set up a meeting, "Lisa asked, looking hopeful, "we could fly out tomorrow and be back by the weekend,"
Ty rubbed his jaw, considering his options, "I need to talk to Amy first" he finally said, seeing Lisa nod at him, understanding his reservations.
"that's fine Ty, but please understand, this is by no means a dispersion on your abilities to take the role of CEO, if you decide that's still what you want to do, I'll stand by you all the way. But I saw how worried you were, and I know how daunting this must all seem, having a trained and experienced consult acting for you would help and make it less overwhelming for you," She touched his arm again as he came back over to her, "of course you would need to spend some time with him, or her, show them the full business,, build a relationship with them and such, but once that was done, your life would then be yours, you could take on a more silent role in Lucky, still its figurehead, but without all the pressure or day to day responsibility"
TY smiled at her, the idea now, sort of making sense, and he knew Lou and Lisa were only looking out for his best interests.
"so, leaving Lucky out of it for now, what do you want to do TY, with your life?" Jack asked, his old eyes seeing the sparkle in Tys as he contemplated the question.
"you know Jack, I've only ever been asked that once before in my entire life, "he grinned, "and that was by your wife only a few days ago"
"so?" Jack pushed,
"I've never thought about it really, not properly, it was something that I didn't think I had a choice about," he said honestly,
"well son, "Jack smiled back at him as he tapped his shoulder, "maybe now's the time to start"
Ty waited for Amy to get home and they headed out into Hudson to catch a movie. Ty opting to spend the night out with just her, his mind filled with questions and decisions after his conversations with Lou, Jack and Lisa.
They snuggled up in the back row, the action movie flickering across the screen and Ty let his head fall against his loves, his arm around her shoulders.
He had told her about the offer put forward by Lisa on the drive into town, Amy listening intently to him as he voiced his concerns and his feelings over the proposal. He was still very much undecided on which way to term, Amy not pushing him, letting him talk it through and sort it somehow in his mind. She too thought it was a good idea, but this was Ty's decision, and she decided quietly in herself as he explained it all to her that she would back him regardless of his final decision.
Ty felt her hand on his chest as the movie rolled on, He wasn't really watching it, his head was full of outcomes and scenarios making it next to impossible for him to relax.
He let his eyes fall down to her as she quickly looked up to meet him, her smile inviting, those lips his salvation. Slowly he lowered his head, letting her move to gently press those soft luscious lips against his. His indecision melting away as he was lost in the wonder that was Amy Fleming.
They made out in the back row, the end credits rolling on the large black screen as other moviegoers stood up and moved along the rows towards the exits.
Ty came up for air, his lips rolling on themselves as he gave her a cheeky grin, Amy also looking a little bashfully at him as people walked past their legs.
"we should go," she whispered, seeing a young girl, around her age look at her and giggle, her hand motioning to her lips causing Amy to wipe her mouth quickly and look away.
"you hungry?" Ty asked, getting to his feet and reaching to take her hand, to which Amy happily accepted.
They walked down the aisle of the theatre together, Amy curled under his arm as they finally came out into the cool night air.
"Maggie's should still be open," She said, looking down the street towards the iconic diner.
"sounds good" Ty replied, his arm turning her as they ambled their way down the street.
He was enjoying being out in the world again if only in Hudson, His original thought of a night out on the town in Calgary with friends now happily sidelined, there was nothing better than time alone with Amy, she was all he needed to make his world seem on an even keel yet again.
They walked into the diner, Soraya waving at them from a counter stool, order books in front of her. She managed Maggie's for her mom, enjoying the responsibility and the chance to really take control of something and make it her own.
"Hey, "she said, smiling at the two of them, seeing Tys eyes glimmer back at her, that tingle in her stomach still there, he was, after all, one hell of a good-looking dude, even if he belonged to her best friend,
"Hey, Soraya "Amy gave her a hug, letting Ty go for an instant as he nodded towards the Spanish girl before him.
"well look at you, "Soraya said, her eyes sliding up and down Ty's form, "out and about, and looking healthy"
"well thank you, "Ty smiled, "you don't look half bad yourself," he gave her a flirty grin as he kissed Amy's cheek and headed off towards the bathroom. That large coke in the movie theatre testing his bladders limitations.
"he looks good Amy," Soraya said quietly, "really, back to his old self again"
Amy nodded, "yeah, he's been pushing to get out for a while now, but with Wade still at large and Tallon still in town, I just, I just don't want to see him get hurt again, "her eyes looked a little sad now, "he nearly died Soraya, I can't let that …."
"he's safe Amy, they will catch Wade and this Tallon guy, and I don't care if he's Tys half-brother or not, he's shown his real colors, "
"I know, but what if …" Amy started, looking even more worried, "He hasn't even tried to contact him you know, not since he signed those papers taking ownership of Lucky, not a word, "
"well that's a good thing isn't it"
"yeah, but what does that say about who he is, his own brother was nearly killed, and he hasn't even called to see if he was ok or not, It's just wrong, "
Soraya nodded, agreeing with her friend,
"has Ty mentioned him,"
"No, not really, he talks about him in conversation, but he never brings him up on his own, it's like he's trying to pretend he doesn't exist like somehow Tallon Ling Moyoto isn't really a Borden"
"Or maybe, he just doesn't want to meet the man who claims to be blood on one hand and attempts to stab him in the back with the other!"
Both girls turned around with a jump to see Ty standing behind them, a rather dry sarcastic smile on his lips.
"Im sorry, we shouldn't have been talking about you like…." Soraya said quickly, Tys raised hand stopping her,
"it's ok, I get it, but can I ask the both of you now to just let it go, "he said softly, "can we make this a Tallon free night"
They both nodded, feeling a little guilty for getting caught discussing it behind his back.
The three friends got some drinks and some fries and claimed a booth, Caleb seeing them when he popped in for pie, and joining them, Ty and the cowboy enjoying their time chatting while Soraya and Amy dug deep into friend mode next to them.
The night rolled on, all of them sharing conversations and a meal, it felt like old times before all this craziness had begun. Amy enjoying being out with her boyfriend, and her best friend. Caleb entertained as only Caleb could, he chatted about his recent rodeo victory and then stunned them all when he eluded to who he currently was dating. All of them looking on at him in certain shock, not following the combination of hearts at all.
"come on guys, she's not that bad when you truly get to know her," He explained, "I kinda like the sass"
"that's more than Sass Caleb, "Ty exclaimed, "I've had my fair share of girls hounding me, and well, she took it another level, be careful ok, she will eat you alive!"
Amy chuckled, still a little surprised at what Caleb had told them,
"Look, she's mellowed since, well, since Jesse left. That really shook her up, "Caleb continued
"it shook me up too Caleb, But I didn't then go and try to destroy someone's relationship by showing their boyfriend images that painted the wrong picture" Amy cut in. Hurt still in her heart over the Stanton Princess's attempt to deceive Ty and turn him against her.
"She told me about that, she's really sorry for her actions now, "He pleaded, "Look, I'm not asking you to love her like a sister or anything, Im just asking for you to give her a chance, "he gave his best puppy dog eyes, hoping to bend their resistance "everyone deserves a second chance don't they"
Soraya looked at Amy and then at Ty, whose expression had somewhat softened, "I've screwed up and made mistakes in my life, and I've really appreciated the second chances I've been given, so …." He looked over at Amy and touched her hand,
"what are you saying" she asked, her face now a little more open to the possibility too.
"Im saying that, Im willing to put it behind us, and give it a go, "he said, "Caleb said she's changed, so, that's good enough for me."
Amy gave her boyfriend a contrite look, her eyes then diverting to her best friend who also looked like she was starting to bend.
"ok, Ok, "she finally replied, seeing Caleb's face light up, "but if she ever tries anything like that again I'll …"
Caleb nodded, accepting the terms, pulling his phone quickly from his pocket and pressing the screen, his smile almost impossible to hide,
"thanks guys, really, this means a lot, she really needs this, "he beamed, Ty turning to hear the diner doorbell chime as a rather timid-looking Ashely Stanton came through the door. She looked different. Her hair was pulled back in a simple braid, her makeup, usually heavy and overdone was subtle and done in natural tones. She wore regular levis, and a soft pink long sleeve tee adorned with a simple white jacket. Downplayed and understated compared to the usual high-end fashion labels she normally was known for.
Amy's' eyes met Ashley's as she stopped at the door, unsure if she should come closer. She looked afraid and filled with remorse.
"come on babe, its ok, come, join us, "Caleb called, beckoning her over. But seeing the reluctance in her pale eyes.
Amy took a breath, she felt Ty touch her leg under the table and then softened her expression, "come on Ashley, we were just about to get some dessert, "
Ashely smile grew, relief in her eyes as she quickly ran over to Caleb and slid in next to him. Ty giving her a gentle smile as she spoke an apology to him with her eyes. Her hands wrapping around Caleb's arm as her attention returned to him.
The group all ordered waffles with cream and continued on with their night, Ashley playing it nice and following Caleb's lead in every conversation. Soraya and Amy relaxing as the night rolled on. Seeing a different side to the Stanton princess. She still had her edge, and on occasion, that glint returned to her eyes, but this was a softer Ashely now, the downfall of her brother being a reality hit that had made her reassess the way she lived her life. Jesses fall from grace had affected her social standing too, it was hard to be the sister of a convicted sex offender. Some of that taint rubbing onto her and her social persona. This had made Ashley pull away, her sting and bite well and truly metered and lost. It was a hard pill to swallow, but a pill that had made her rethink her life and how she was livening it. This Ashley, the one who had caught Caleb's eyes was softer and more in tune with who she was. Amy had to admit, she liked this new version better.
It was well after nine when they finally pulled the wrangler up in front of the barn. Ty kissing Amy in front of the barn doors and sending her on her way to the ranch house when he noticed the kitchen light turn on. A light on meant someone was up, that someone, most likely Jack.
"see you in the morning ok" he whispered, hugging her one more time, Amy returning it with as much love and passion as she could.
"I've got a client tomorrow, so I'll see you in the afternoon ok, maybe we could go for a ride, I owe you a picnic at the ridge"
He nodded, Amy, waving to him as he slowly stepped into the barn and noticed the horses were a little restless. He walked over to Harley and ran his hand down his muzzle, calming him with his gentle stroke.
Ty then checking their water and feed before heading up the loft stairs. The room in darkness as he kicked off his boots and pulled his jacket from his arms, throwing it on the couch as he rubbed his tired eyes.
"and there he is, the prodigal son in all his wealth and glory"
Ty stopped. His feet glued to the floor as his eyes looked over towards the bed. He heard a snigger that turned into a maniacal growl of a laugh, as a hand reached out and flicked on a lamp.
Tys eyes shot full of radiant light as finally the source of the sound bite came into view, his eyes adjusting to the level of illuminance.
"Wade" he whispered,
Those dark eyes locked to his as they sparkled with evil malice.
"the one and only kid, "he sneered, "you miss me, pretty?"
Amy walked into the kitchen as the light lost its luster, she saw a large figure slowly wander back towards the lounge, a smile creeping across her pretty face.
"Grandpa?" she said, knowing it was him, but catching him out anyways.
"Amy, "he said back, turning in the semi-darkness and coming back to meet her in the kitchen as she re-tapped the light switch.
"you have a good night," he asked.
"yes, we went to the movies, and then caught up with Soraya and Caleb at Maggie's, "she explained,
"how's Ty, "Jack seemed a little worried, Amy catching him concern and not quite following.
"he's good?" she said looking puzzled,
"so, he talk to you about anything? "Jack probed, Amy's smile curling as she realized what he was aiming towards.
"yes Grandpa, he did, we talked about the consultancy, he told me how it would work and what it would mean"
"so, he made any decisions? "
"no, not yet, "Amy continued, "but I think he's considering it, "
"well, that's a good thing I suppose, "Jack smiled,
"you want him to do this don't you?" she asked, trying to gauge her grandfather's feelings.
"I want him to do what's best for him, "Jack replied, "I want him to be happy, that's all"
"so, do I, grandpa, "Amy said as she pulled into him and gave him a hug, "that all I have ever wanted"
"what are you doing here Wade," Ty asked, his voice low, the fear in his gut being held down as best he could. He stood at the other end of the room to the demon who dwelled in his darkest thoughts. Keeping his distance, His stance defiant and guarded. He wasn't going to be the victim this time. This was not going down that same dark path.
"well, pretty, I thought I'd check in on you, see how the world is treating you now your all famous in your own right"
Ty swallowed, he could hear the beat of his heat resonating through his ears. Wade walked over to the kitchenette, keeping his distance, he knew Ty could simply bolt down the stairs, his positioning gave him easy access to make an escape.
"You should go, "Ty said, the quaver in his voice only just detectable. "the police are looking for you,"
"thanks to you, "Wade cut back, his voice cold, "seems all my troubles right now, stem from you, pretty"
Ty looked away, the edge in Wade's tone and his choice of words making him uncomfortable. "stop calling me that"
Wade smirked to himself, knowing he was getting to the young man, the fact he was standing in his loft, undetected by the family who claimed to love and protect him was victory enough. Tys obvious defensiveness making the win all the more worthwhile.
"the thing is Pretty, Im in a bit of a bind, and since you're the reason for that, I think it's only fitting that you help me get out of it." He walked further around the room, now standing near the table.
"I … I …If you go now, I'll not say a…" Ty stammered, moving now himself, his back to the lounge area as he kept his advisory directly in front of him.
"Tut Tut kid, "Wade grinned, "you know it's not that easy If I go, where do you suggest I go to hey? I can't show my face in Hudson, or in Alberta for that fact, Im marked, and I think it's time you showed your old stepdad some gratitude"
Ty curled his lip, his fear now being replaced with a resonating anger, ", not my stepdad" he growled, "you never were"
"potato, potartoes, "Wade grinned, his eyes now on his target, that Lear making Ty nervous once again.
"what do you want!" Ty repeated his tone a little more forced, the edge coming through.
"what do I want, "Wade parroted back at him. Seeing the anger, and the frustration and feeding it. "you know me, Pretty, I have simple tastes, "
TY looked away, his stomach churning at the innuendo. The threat in Wade's voice sickening him.
"ok, ok, "Wade laughed, "settle, Im playing with ya, "he walked forward, Tys eyes once again on him as he instinctively back away, his heels hitting the floorboards as he retreated towards the stairs. "that's far enough kid, "
TY stopped, his hands by his sides as his chest heaved, the tightness in his lungs making him feel ill. His heart pounded as he stepped away again, redirecting towards the lounge, trying to keep a safe distance.
"just go, "he whispered,
"can't do that kid, not without you anyways, "Wade cut back, his hand now in his pocket, his eyes rolling from Ty's boots to his eyes. Seeing how much his attention was impacting on the young man. Ty moved again, now slowly backing around the couch, he knew he was cutting off his avenue to escape. But keeping as far away from Wade as possible seemed more important at that moment.
"You and I are going to take a little drive, "Wade explained, walking forward again, his back now to the stairs,
Ty shook his head, in defiance, not looking at him, but standing his ground, "no… you can't do this to me anymore, I…"
"Oh, I beg to differ, pretty, "Wade laughed back,
Ty hearing a slight whistle escape Wades lips as his eyes fell onto his right hand.
All the air sucked out of Ty's lungs as he saw the silver barrel glint in the low light, it looked cold and hard in Wade's fingers. Its muzzle pointed directly Ty's chest.
Wade's smile broadened as he watched Ty's hands raise shakily, the look on his face one of not only fear but resignation. Wade held all the cards again, and Ty was looking at a royal flush.
"so, this is how it's going to work, you're going to call that pretty little tidbit of yours over here, and we, you, me and her are going to take a little drive, nothing fancy, just the three of us, some time to clear the air, what do you say"
"No, "Ty cut back, his eyes sharp now, "you can do whatever you want to me, but I won't bring Amy into this, "
"look at you! all white knight and protective, "Wade sneered, "call her NOW!"
Ty shook his head, his face filled with angst for the man who held him at bay. "I won't."
Wade signed, looking a little annoyed but mostly dejected, "you never make it easy do you kid, you always make me do things the hard way. "
Ty watched Wade as his expression suddenly changed, and he marched straight up to Ty and pressed the handgun muzzle into his chest. Ty instantly inhaling and taking another step back, his face filled with fear yet stoic in his defiance. His hands now well and truly raised in surrender.
"call her now, or" Wade snarled, seeing Ty's jaw tighten as he shook his head again, he was terrified, but he would sooner die than see Amy in Wade's slimy hands.
Wade snarled and rolled his eyes in annoyance, this was wasting time, time, he didn't have. He took a quick second to redirect and change his plan of intention then swung the butt of the gun around sharply, connecting it with the side of Ty's head.
The impact was quick and abrupt, Ty grunting and falling backward, his vision clouding as a hot flash of white light shot before his eyes, dazed for a moment he fell to the floor, shaking his head, his hand pressed to his temple as he felt the hot stickiness on his fingers. He shook his head again, trying to clear his vision. Still conscious but stunned. His head reverberating from the pain of the impact.
"You are a pain in the arse, you know that," he heard Wade snarl into his ear, the sound of his voice was close, ringing through his thundering head. He tried to push him away, staggering to his feet, only to slip and fall again as his head spun violently. Again, he tried to clear his vision, his eyes blinking rapidly as he felt his hands pulled roughly behind his back.
"No, "he breathed, pulling against the hands that held him. His eyes finally allowing him to see the room around him again, the spinning slowing as he shook his head again.
TY expelled the air from his lungs as he sat on the floor, his hands now secured tightly behind his back by what he took to be cable ties, the plastic chewing into his wrists. He looked up at Wade as he let his body press against the couch, his breathing deep and his faculties returned to him.
Wade took a breath, he knelt down before his victim. His smile one of imminent gratification. He pressed his rough fingers into the cut on Ty's head, making him pull away, the touch repulsing him. Those green eyes watching Wade in defiance as the older man reached down and pushed his hand into the front pocket of Ty's jeans. Ty reacted instinctively, he scrambled with his legs, trying to get away, falling onto his side on the floor as Wade pinned him with his knees.
"settle pretty, "Wade hissed, his fingers pushing further into the soft lining on the pocket, Ty clenching his teeth and pulling away again, His mind in utter turmoil as he struggled to get free.
"NO!" Ty yelled, not caring now if anyone heard him, he wasn't about to let this happen, not again, He dug his heels into the floorboards and pushed with all his might, finally breaking the hold Wade had on his and scampering over towards the rear wall of the loft, his body slamming into it violently as he turned to face a now laughing Wade. His chest heaving as he watched him stand up, and grin, Ty's phone in his repulsive hand.
Ty swallowed and flicked the hair from his eyes as he suddenly became aware of what Wade was up to.
"NO don't you…" he whispered as he watched him hit the screen, the muzzle of the gun pointed at Ty's chest yet again,
"password?" Wade asked, his voice calm, his enjoyment at Ty obvious discomfort showing.
Ty looked away, not answering, not giving him the satisfaction of seeing his pain or the fear that tore through him.
"no, "Wade said, signing again, "it's always the hard way with you, don't you ever get tired of me beating you down"
He walked over to Ty as he again tried to get away for him, crawling back into the corner of the loft, trying in vain to avoid those menacing hands. But as before he was once again overpowered, even though he fought, the disadvantage of having his hands bound and his mind dazed doing him in. He ended up on his stomach, Wades knee in his back, as he scrambled with his legs to get a foothold to try and leaver himself free.
"will you keep still! "Wade snapped, grabbing his hands and pressing Ty's thumb to the phone screen,
"NO! ARGH, "Ty fought with all his might, knowing that if that phone read his fingerprint, it would unlock, and he would have no way of stopping Wade from what he ultimately wanted to achieve, "don't, please, "he begged, pulling away again as Wade let him go, scampering to his feet and falling onto the lounge. His eyes on his captor as he watched him swipe the screen. "Wade, Im begging you, I will do what you want, I mean it, you can do whatever you want to me. just leave her out of this ok"
Wade considered the offer, his eyebrow-raising as his eyes wandered over Ty, stopping at different locations momentarily on Ty's now stressed and panicked body. His darker thoughts and depravities taking hold.
"tempting, pretty, I must say, "he smiled, his tongue licking his lips "but I have my orders, and well, you know Im a man of my word"
Ty pulled himself up, his chest heaving with the stress, his lungs burning as he tried to calm himself, He watched Wade press the screen of his phone, typing with his fat fingers, the smile on his diabolical face making Ty die inside
"Wade, Please, you win ok, I'm all yours, please, just, don't …." he cried, as he pulled himself to his feet. His green eyes filled with fear as Wade smiled back at him, his thumb hitting the button that said 'send'.
The gentle buzz of Amy's phone roused her from her light sleep, she had only been in bed for little over an hour, her night out with Ty and her friends putting her into a happy and contented mood.
She had left Jack and had a shower, then crawled under her soft warm comforter, missing the feeling of Ty's naked body next to her. It was something she now craved, having that closeness beside her, their time apart was harder now than it was before they had taken their love to the next level of closeness.
She looked at her phone, as it buzzed its way across her bedside, her smile knowing that the message could be from only one person really, her smile growing as she saw the text owners name flash onto her screen.
Three simple words, that made her heart explode and pulled her up out of the warmth of her bed. Those three words creating a smile that blossomed across her face and into her very soul.
{COME TO ME}
She giggled, looking at the screen, those butterflies doing summersaults in her stomach as she pulled off her PJ shorts and pulled back on her jeans. She let her eyes glance at the mirror in the corner of her room, her hands running through her bed hair and trying to fix it. She looked down at the simple tee she was wearing and chewed her lip. Ty was not one to care about what she wore, he had told her she was beautiful no matter the wrapping. But her smile turned into a cheeky grin as she ran over to her wardrobe and pulled out a tight black tank, that had a shoestring tie opening that ended threaded down between her soft cleavage. She pulled the tie, loosening it slightly, exposing the skin beneath. The addition of the black lace bra beneath she knew, would make him smile. She grinned and pressed the phone screen, hitting send. Her smile cheeky as she grabbed Ty's soft black hoodie, that he had left in her room a week or so before, pulling it over her surprise and zipping it up to her neck.
Wade grinned when the phone chimed, his eyes holding to Tys as he sat on the couch. His hands still restrained, his pained expression over Wade's deception ripping at his heart. He knew Amy would respond, she always did to late night texts, all he could pray for was that Wade would respond in a way that would make Amy question if it was actually him. It was a long shot, but it's all he had, their play texts usually went a certain way. Maybe if the response wasn't his usual, maybe she wouldn't come.
Wade laughed, and typed again, seeing the lost look in Tys eyes as he looked away. His gaze now on the stairs, considering another way of heading her off before she passed the point of no return.
"she's a frisky one, "Wade said in a deep drawl, he stood near the table now, seeing the way Ty watched the stairs, "I wouldn't Pretty, unless you really want to see my bad side"
Ty turned back to look at him, "I've already seen it, "Ty spat back at him, "I lived with you remember, "
Wade's smile dropped slightly, seeing the fight in Tys eyes, the fear was being held at bay now, there was a look of contempt in those green emeralds that glared back at him. And that, Wade new, was dangerous and unpredictable.
He walked over to where his young captive sat, Ty not once breaking the eye contact between them. He sat awkwardly on the couch, half sprawled across the two seats, his arms pulled back roughly and bound at the wrist.
Wade grabbed Ty's jaw in his rough grasp, the gun in his other hand as he pulled him up into a sitting position. Tys lip curling as his adversary dragged his face up to meet his.
"you have no idea what Im capable of you little shit, "Wade hissed, his face now only inches from Tys, seeing the fight in his terrified eyes, "your no match for me, pretty, I told you before, I own you, lock stock and barrel"
"fuck off!" Ty snarled back, as he tried to pull his face free. Wade's eyes narrowing at the insolence being thrown back at him.
Wade sneered at his captive, his eyes filled with venom as he lifted the gun and pressed the muzzle under Ty's chin, seeing Ty swallow and take a breath, his chest freezing as he held it. That fear, once again pushing to the surface. Wade pushed the point home by releasing his hold on his jaw, the gun still in place as his eyes held Tys to ransom, his free hand then sliding across his cheek and then running through Ty's hair, making him recoil away from the contact, his skin crawling, His slid his hand slowly down his neck, Ty hissing and turning his face away, the cold muzzled of the handgun making him stop when Wade increased the pressure against his jaw. Wade's evil intentions stopping on Ty's peck muscle, his fingers sliding over his tensing chest, Ty glaring at the invasion but not able to stop it, Wade distracted momentarily when the phone bussed again.
"later, Pretty, "Wade grinned, as he pulled away, Ty sliding quickly over to the other side of the couch, finally releasing the breath he had held when that gun barrel fist touched his chin.
Wade's grin grew, Tys worst fears growing as he pushed Ty's phone into his Jacket pocket. "not long now kid, seems your little girl has a surprise for you too"
Ty shut his eyes. Not wanting to give Wade the satisfaction. His heart breaking as he thought of Amy leaving the safety of the Ranch house and coming over to him thinking he had called her to his side. He had to stop this, prevent this from happening, Wade would use her and his love for her against him, the depths of his perversions meant that Amy was no safer than he was in Wade's grasp.
He had to protect her, he had to keep her away, warn her of the danger and make sure she stayed safely out of reach.
Amy heard her phone buzz again, her smile wide as she read the message,
Her eyebrow raising slightly, looking a little perplexed by the response.
His response to her reply not his usual playful banter, Amy reread her message, curiosity filling her blue eyes.
{you miss me already wild one, give me 5, I've got a surprise for you too}
{Stop stalling, and get over here so I can have you}
Amy rolled her lip, Ty's message reading to her as rushed and a little harsh and self-gratifying, He wasn't one to be sexually aggressive like that, their texts and play was always flirty and possibly a little cheeky, but never rough and demanding.
She slowly opened the bedroom door and poked her head out, the house was silent, and the lights were off apart from the radiant glow of the last few embers in the hearth.
She stepped out into the hall, her boots making a gentle tapping sound as she slowly headed for the mudroom door, pushing it open and stepping out into the cool night air, making sure she shut it silently, her eyes once again looking through the kitchen window, making sure her movement hadn't been detected. Once convinced she was good, she quickly jumped down the porch steps and headed quietly over to the barn, its lights not on, but a low glow being seen through the front windows.
Ty took a breath, his head hurting, but his vision now back to normal. Wade stood near the rear of the room, His eyes on the stairs, that gun, not pointed at Ty now, but still menacingly in his hands.
Footsteps below made Ty suddenly straighten up, his eyes looking desperately over at Wade who had not yet heard them, as he was farther away from the stair.
Ty moved on the couch, Wade currently distracted by his own phone as he pressed the screen.
Ty knew it was now or never if he let Amy come up to the loft, it was over, she would also be caught in this insidious trap that he already found himself unable to pull free from. He had to stop her, it was the only way to keep her out of the firing line.
"Ty?" She said softly, as her boots hit the bottom step of the loft stair, Ty instantly jumping to his feet and going to move towards the top of the stair run.
"ah ah ah" Wade hissed, Tys eyes catching his again, his feet stopping as he saw the gun once again pointed at him.
"I won't let you hurt her!" Ty growled, stepping forward again, now only meters from the banister rail.
"one more step kid, "Wade warned, coming forward now too, swerving behind the lounge are so he was coming up behind Ty as he moved again.
Amy's' head appeared, and Ty made the decision that he knew would either end in disaster or save her from a fate he knew to be worse for both of them. He rolled his shoulder and moved again, this time letting his call of warning ring out as loud as he could to the young woman who had just come into view. His body now between his love as she approached and the threat behind him.
"Amy! RUN!" he bellowed, As Wade grabbed him from behind and pulled him back, his arm around Ty's throat as he subdued him. "RUN NOW! GO!"
Amy's eyes looked up the stairs, confused at first as the scene before her came into view, she was halfway up the staircase as her eyes finally landed on Ty as he struggled against Wade grasp. His face filled with panic and concern, those green eyes pleading with her to go back, not to venture forth.
"Ty! what's, "Amy breathed, taking one more step, Wade's face suddenly pulling out from behind Ty's head, Amy's eyes widening in horror as she watched him press the gun to Ty's temple.
"Steady little lady, "Wade hissed, "don't make me decorate the wall with your loves brain matter"
Amy froze her hand on the rail, her eyes locked at What stood in all its ugly glory before her, Wade's arm aggressively around Ty's neck, holding him backward, off balance, his arms secured behind his back, his legs floundering on the hardwood floors.
"Amy, no," Ty whispered, "run, just go. "
She could see the tears in his eyes as he was held still, Amy still out of reach, but now within Wade's gameplay.
"nice and easy little lady come on, up you come, "Wade instructed, seeing Amy's hesitate and look back the way she had come. She didn't know what to do, she could see the look in Ty's eyes, he was terrified, that he couldn't control the outcome. If she did as Wade said, she would be pulling herself into this deadly game. A game that Wade held the control of. If they were to escape this, both of them intact. They needed to change the play. And that meant taking away Wades power.
"don't make me hurt him, Amy, "Wade warned, as he pressed the barrel of the gun into Tys already bleeding temple. Making him groan and wince, his left eye closing with the pain.
"Ok, Ok, "Amy said finally, "I'll come up, please, just leave him alone"
"that's a girl, "Wade replied, his body close behind Tys as he restrained him, he could feel the tension and the panic running through his skin.
Ty shook his head slightly making one last silent plea to his love. Trying to keep her away. His eyes darting up to Wade and then back to her, his lips moving slowly as he mouthed his intentions without words.
Amy watched him, getting the message and only taking two steps up, she lifted her boot to take the next one when Ty suddenly threw his head back violently, the back of his skull connecting with Wade's unexpecting face, the sound of a grizzly crack and crunch being overshadowed by a gurgling yell. Wade staggered backwards, his hands grabbing his face as blood poured from his shattered nose, Ty taking his sudden freedom from his assailant and throwing himself bodily down the stairs towards Amy, his body colliding with her as she turned and bolted back the way she had come, Amy collected Ty's weight, as he crashed into her, both of them slamming into the middle landing of the stairs, Amy crumpling under a now stunned Ty, his head once again swimming and confused from the impact with Wade's hard skull, they fell down the remaining steps, Now laying in a heap on the barn floor.
"get up," Amy yelled, making TY struggle to his feet, staggering slightly as his head spun. Amy pulling him bodily along with her as they bolted for the door of the barn. Wade's footfalls on the barn steps above them growing louder,
"Go Amy! now, "Ty said, as they fell through the doors of the barn, His arms throbbing as he tried to get them free, his feet stumbling on the shale drive. "Get back to the house, please, run!"
Amy stepped away from him. He was struggling to stay on his feet, the blow to the back of his head when he collided with Wade's face had disorientated him. He shook his head, and looked back towards the barn, Wade was coming, and she was faster on her own.
"RUN!" He yelled, "I'll slow him down"
Amy turned and bolted, not wanting to leave him, but knowing that they had no chance of defeating Wade alone. Her feet skidded across the porch as she smashed into the mudroom door and disappeared into the house.
Ty shook his head again, breathing a sigh of relief when he saw she was inside. He slowly turned back to the barn doors as Wade came flying out at him. Punching him square in the jaw and them barreling into his chest. Ty's head snapping backward at the impact, as he lost his footing and fell, Wade on top of him. Wade punched him again, this time to the chest Making Ty gasp as push all the air out of his lungs, Ty's leg pulled up as Wade slowly got up off of him. Shaken by the encounter himself, his bloodstained face contorted with anger. Ty's boot landed in the middle of Wade's gut and pushed him away violently.
He flew backward, landing on his behind, His anger and rage now written all over his bloodied face. He looked around the shale ground, in his anger, he had dropped his gun when he charged at Ty from the barn doors. Both advisories seeing the weapon laying in the light of the barn doors. Time froze as several things happened at once.
Wade clambered to his feet, charging for the gun, Ty also, up and running for the same target, throwing himself sideways into Wade, as if stealing a home base run the two of them collided once again, Legs and body parts smashing together as they fought for supremacy. Ty's wrists screamed as he flexed his arms again, his wrists cut to ribbons as the cable ties finally snapped under the force of his arms. Now free, he threw himself onto Wade with all his might and anger, fighting him for domination as they scrambled around on the ground, shale shards and dust flying around them.
Amy ran from the house, Jack behind her rifle in hand, stopping as she heard her grandfather cock his gun and aim it at the melee that continued before them.
"Stop! Stop please!" Amy screamed as Wade swung around again, now on top of the ever-fighting Ty, Jack unable to make out whose legs and arms belonged to who. Neither battler paying much attention to the onlookers.
Amy heard the rifle discharge into the night, the noise making Amy Jump as she turned back to see Jacks rifle pointed at the stars. He reloaded it and went to aim it again at the warring factions, but before he could, the Alberta night sky erupted again to another loud bang!
This one coming from between the two advisories as they fought on the ground.
The night returned to silence as TY pushed Wade off of him, as he rolled away, Wade groaning and laying where he fell. Amy screaming in terror when she saw the red stain across Ty's shirt front.
She flew forward, sliding in behind him, and letting his head fall against her chest, her hands frantically pushing the hair from his eyes, needing to see he was ok. His mouth open and gasping for air. His face racked with pain.
"Grandpa!" Amy screamed! Looking up at him, her eyes filled with panic as she pulled Ty close to her, his eyes closing for a few seconds and then reopening. his breathing deep and filled with exertion.
Jack fell to his knee as pulled Tys shirt open, his hand searching his abdomen and chest. He looked up at his granddaughter, as he looked over at Wade, now lying still on his stomach, his face turned away from them. "It's not him Amy, it's not his blood"
Amy looked down, seeing Ty's torso, it was smeared with blood and dirt, but held no wounds "it's not him, it's not,,,,, it's not his." she said, over and over again, not sure if saying the words made them more real. Ty coughed and rolled himself over onto his side, Amy helping him slowly sit up, his body bruised and shaking, his hands trembling as blood trickled down his fingers from his torn wrists.
Jack moved away, the night falling silent again as he walked over to Wade and assessed the other injured party. His hand touching his neck and then looking over at Amy as she cradled an exhausted and shaking Ty.
"we need an ambulance, "Jack said, "Now"
to be continued
