Chapter Forty-Two

Christmas Joy With a Twist

A/N – Some may think that I may be overdoing the accomplishments of Amy and Ty and the entire family. Since it is true fiction I still feel my path is what I consider to be the things they could have accomplished. A lot of good things have happened to them and on the flip side they have had to deal with challenges. I just hope you are enjoying it as much as I am. Let's move into the Christmas season. School is winding down but the Borden kids still have a lot going on. A challenge is on the way that will rock the family and rely on their strength to get through it. Mature Content (It is Christmas) Enjoy

It had definitely been a very good year for the Borden's. Sure there might have been a few challenges but overall the family was as always there for each other. The kids, although all fond of school were all looking forward to the break. All of them loved the Christmas holiday and the girls were excited as this Christmas JT was more aware and couldn't stop taking about it. Lyndy had two things to be excited about. She had really wanted to have a friend party so when she approached her parents she had Wyatt by her side. "Mom, Dad I/we have a favor to ask. Could we host a holiday party for our friends at the house. It won't be more than 20 people and we are also asking Katie and Clay so there will kind of be adults there." Amy smiled and Ty answered smirking, "Well of course you can and mom and I would enjoy begin there with you and all of your friends." With a look of shock they stared at them, "Well that's nice but we were hoping it would just be us and maybe you could take the rest of the herd out for a movie or something." Amy poked him in the ribs, "Of course you can, but not too late. Maybe we will get JT, Addie, Annie and Maddie to spend night at their friend's house or maybe hang out with Grandpa and Casey." Looking dreamingly into Ty's eyes, "Maybe we can go on a date?" kissing his cheek. Lyndy groaned, "Can't you guys give it a rest. Just make sure you stay out until 11?" Amy answered pulling away from Ty, "Of course you can have your friends over and we will stay out until 11 but that is the latest." Ty added, "And don't trash the place." Lyndy smiled and hugged her parents as she was elated. Her second bit of excitement would have to wait, until the holidays.

The Board had decided to have a brief pre-holiday meeting to discuss some pending topics and talk through the start of next year. The buzz from recent events continued to drive business and in order to keep up with it they needed to discuss options. They had decided to meet at Maggie's and cordoned off an area for the 12 of them also inviting Ben and Jennifer. The zoomed Max in as there were some legal topics. Lisa started the informal meeting off buy talking through the recent recognition from the Prime Minister and each shared their thoughts and the impact to their business. Amy started, "First I have to say that Ty and I want to thank you for selecting us to represent the company, we were humbled. From a business perspective, Georgie and I have seen a marked increase in out-of-town bookings into next year. We are OK now but since we are in the slow season, we are concerned when business increases in the Spring. I think we all need to see where we have opportunity to add or modify our space." Scott, Jenn and Ben also mentioned an increase in their businesses. Ty added, "I think Heartland and the Miracle Ranch are maxed out but Amy and I looked at some property between us and Heartland and it could add almost 150 acres of good pasture. If we get it we could look at some additional stables and other needs at both locations." Jack who was pretty quiet, "I think that is a good idea Ty. Lisa can we have your surveyor friend get us the information and see the projected cost. We have that prize money, maybe that could be put to good use." Amy and Lou looked at their grandpa with concern, her didn't look well.

Lisa interjected, "Well that was my second point of discuss, the award. I was going to say we should each submit a list of needs and we can have them vetted them out, but rather than that let's hold off until we see how this pans out." Lou stepped in, "But we also wanted to let you know something. Grandpa, Lisa and I decided to take $20,000 of the prize and give each of us $2000 each. We firmly believe this group earned it." Lisa added, "And Jack and I have decided to give half of our money to you Ben and Jennifer. You are a valuable part of the team." Everyone smiled in agreement. Lou added, and since they are really stepping up, Scott and I decided to give half of our money to Katie and Clay. They as well deserve it and are a big part of our future." Again everyone smiled in agreement. "The final discussion topics I want to go over is the Youth Program and University Partnership. I know the Youth Program is running smoothly but I have an idea. Let's put Clay and Katie in charge of overseeing it. It may be a stretch but I think they can handle it. They can align with Clint and ensure we have a solid process in place. This is a great opportunity for us to help the kids and the community and help our overall labor cost. In no way do I want to take work away from our team but engage them mentoring them, which I believe will help them as well." Ty, immediately stepped into comment, "Guys, you know I don't like begin the poster boy for this but I agree 100% with Lisa's comments. The few kids we have already brought on are gaining a value that they may have never been able to achieve." Tearfully he continued, "You all saved me and I want to save them." Amy hugged him tightly as the rest joined in.

Lisa continued with a smile, "And Ty we better do well, the PM has put the pressure on. In fact when he visits over next summer I want to have a formal review for him and maybe even have him meet some of the kids." They agreed and she continued, "Now the University program, I see this as another opportunity for us to influence future vets and supplement the veterinary needs of all of our facilities." Scott interjected, "Lisa I agree 100%, I remember when I went through my clinical requirements they were less than challenging or life altering. In fact I felt like free labor. If we position it right, we can provide a valuable experience and create a group of DVMs that will not hesitate to send business our way." Cass had a thought, "I would like to volunteer myself and Ellie to build out several clinical paths. When I went through my clinicals I had no direction or path. We can establish multiple paths and cycle the students through them. I have already talked with her and she is excited to be involved." Raising his hand Steven volunteered to help as well.

The group all smiled especially Scott and Ty who were impressed by Cass, Steven and Ellie's initiative. Ty spoke up, "Cassandra that is a great idea and I think using two recent grads will give more recent experience to the project." He chuckled looking at Scott, "I don't think us old guys are as current as you kiddos." Jack interrupted again with a low voice, "You all this is great but Lisa, Lou and I have one final point of order. Scott and Ty, we want you to be the owners of the program. You have both been instrumental in driving the vet side of the business and believe your oversight will be necessary." With everyone smiling Cass agreed, "Jack I agree and am excited about this program and what is will bring to the kids and our company." Amy grabbed Ty's hand under the table and smiled at him. She couldn't be prouder of her man. The team adjourned and enjoyed a Maggie's lunch of their favorites but now Ty joined in on the concern for Jack's wellbeing whispering in her ear, "Is Jack Ok?" Lunch finished and the good thing was Jack paid.

It was the last day of school and the Borden kids ran off the bus excited about the holiday. Wyatt and Gwen were with them as well as the group approached the porch. Everyone was happy and excited about the holidays. Lyndy was the first to notice that only their dad was on the porch not their mom too. And he was not alone, Scott and Steven were with him. As they approached the group became subdued, something was wrong. Lyndy spoke to her father, "Daddy what's wrong, where is mom and why are Scott and Steven here?" Ty began speaking to them calmly, "Wyatt, can you do me a favor and take Gwen and JT inside for a snack, we need a second to talk to the girls." Wyatt smiled seeming to understand the severity of his request. "Come on guys let's get a snack and I get to pick the TV program to watch." Gwen and JT huffed and Wyatt gave Lyndy a gentle hug. As they went in the girls gathered around their father, misty eyes already forming. Addie spoke, "Daddy what is wrong, is mom Ok, did she get hurt." "No honey your mom is fine she is with Lou and Georgie. We need to tell you something so I need you all to listen and if you have questions we will try to answer them.

(Back in Time) As Lisa and Jack settled into bed after an enjoyable Thanksgiving she couldn't help noticing that Jack seemed a little subdued. "Jack, what is wrong, you have seen a little more into yourself lately, is everything alright." He sighed, "I don't know if I have ever been happier, the family is doing well, the great grandkids are awesome and the company is thriving. You know I am not supposed to have favorites but to see Amy and Ty and how they have grown brings warmth to my heart. I know that Marion and Lyndy would be so proud of them. Amy is an amazing women, mother and wife. And Ty, well what he has accomplished after all the crap he went through it amazing. The way he looks at Amy and the- way his kids looks at him, it just is," Jack stopped as tears came to his stoic eyes. Lisa worriedly asked, "Well Jack you had a major part in that but something is wrong I can tell." He owned up, "Well remember when I was feeling a little tired and went to see the doctor. Honey they ran some test and want me to come back because they saw something of concern in my pancreas." Lisa's breath was taken away but calmly said, "Jack Bartlett whatever it is we will deal with it together and you have two granddaughters and a host of others for support. But when the time is right there will be no secrets, you got it!" He smiled and said, "No secrets."

(Back to the Present.) Taking Maddie in his lap and holding the girls hands Ty began as Scott and Steven put their hands on the girls shoulders, "Girls GG is sick, very sick. He has been diagnosed with Pancreatic Cancer. His is at the hospital because he had a bad spell and is being treated. Mom, Lou and Georgie are there for Lisa. He is awake and complaining to the nurses so that is good. We wanted to tell you because he will need us all more than ever moving forward as he fights this. He can beat this but I am not going to lie, it will be hard. Although GG is tough he is not as young as he used to be. More than ever before, he is going to need our support not our sympathy. So now what questions do you have." Before they even spoke they all hugged their father tightly as tears formed in his eyes. Maddie spoke up first, "Daddy how are you, we know how much GG means to you. Are you OK?" At that point Ty could not hold it back any longer. With tears flowing he struggled but answered her question. "Maddie, GG is important to everyone in many different ways but he is my father and has been for a long time. He always believed in me even when I screwed things up. One day after I had gotten in trouble right before our wedding, I was in the loft frustrated that I had messed up again. He looked at me and said, ' You are a good man, Ty Borden and one instance does not make a man, it is what he does after that instance is what is important.' I took that to heart and everything worked out. I know he will get better but what is important now that no matter what we are there for him."

The girls inquired with a lot of questions. Addie started, "What is pancreatic cancer?" Scott answered so Ty could gather himself. "Well girls, the pancreas helps your body to digest food better. Food is your energy but since there are so many different types of the pancreas helps break it down so it can be used to energize your body, that is why we eat." Sometimes the pancreas gets sick and doesn't work right. That causes a lot of pain and if untreated can really be bad." Ty continued, "GG is in the early stages of the disease which is good. But since he is older his body is not as strong as it used to be so he needs to be watched closely." Annie spoke up, "But daddy, GG is strong as an ox, you guys say that all the time." "Yes he is honey but even as strong as he is this disease is strong too. But he is getting treatment to help him win this battle. But the treatment will make him sick and tired a lot, so we all have to help him." He explained. Lyndy who had been very quiet looked at her dad, "Daddy, pancreatic cancer is what Wyatt's grandpa had and he had to get chemotherapy and didn't survive. Is that going to happen to GG?" She broke down finally able to let loose of her emotions. Ty calmed her and her sisters. "Girls I will not say to you that this is not serious but it was diagnosed early, which is good. GG is strong and if anyone can beat this he can." The timidly smiled and hugged as a family.

Although they tried to wait up all the kids except Lyndy fell asleep before their mom got home. When she walked in the door she collapsed into her husband's arms. She noticed Lyndy at the table and brought her into a hug as well. She said GG was doing good but was asleep for the night. She was so exhausted so the three of them went to sleep. The next morning at breakfast the table was quiet. Amy was the last to come down as she had spent her night in Ty's arms silently weeping. As always he was her rock and assured her everything would be Ok. Rather than overwhelm her they waited for her to get her coffee and Lyndy brought her a plate of fruit and toast. Amy looked at them and spoke, "Well I talked to Lisa and GG had a good night and is up. He has some more treatment this morning but wants us to come visit, all of us. Guys, the love he has for you and all of the family is what he needs to help him through this. But he is sick and if you are uncomfortable seeing him this way it is Ok, we understand" She looked at them with a mother's love. "We are supposed to see him at 3:00pm. We don't want to overwhelm him so we are taking shifts. I am going to leave shortly to get Lou and Georgie, so dad will take you." Again the girls were quiet understanding her grief and fear. They all sat with her on the couch comforting her. JT smiled at her and said in his sweet voice, "GG be ok mommy." She smiled and hugged him tightly. She loved her family.

Ty and the kids arrived just on time. Each of them had made a card for him, even JT. They walked in with cards in hand. Lisa, Lou and Georgie were on the couch in the fairly large room. Their mom was on the edge of the bed and motioned them over. JT reached up for his GG and with his approval, Amy lifted him up on his lap. The girls tentatively greeted him as tears formed in their eyes. They had never seen their grandpa this way even when he had his medical issue a while back. Lyndy noticed he looked drawn and very tired. But nonetheless he smiled at them and a slight glow came to his face, "The Borden flock is here, I am so happy to see you. And enough with the sad faces. I am feeling fine and with you all here I even feel better. Let's look at these cards." Jack took the time to look at each one hugging and kissing each of them. Amy was amazed at his strength as he spoke to them individually and kissed each after he read the cards. "Hey Lisa, can you put these on the table so I can see them." She smiled, walked over and kissed each of the kids. She as well looked tired and Lyndy gave her a special hug whispering in her ear, " Mimi, we are here for you too. Whatever you need we are here." Controlling her tears Lisa hugged Lyndy again looking over to Amy with a smile on her face. The girls retreated to the couch so their dad and mom could visit. Ty reach over and hugged Jack as tears began to form. Amy held his arm supporting him as she saw his sadness. Jack looked them both in the eye, "Ty, Amy, I love you both very much, but I need you to both be strong. The prognosis is good but it is going to be hard. I don't need tears, I need your love and support." Amy shakily spoke as Ty could still not find words, "Grandpa you will always have our support. You mean everything to both of us and will not let you down." They smiled and hugged each other tightly. It was a good visit.

It was a couple of weeks before Christmas and the Borden home and for that matter everyone was subdued but optimistic. Jack was improving and would be home a few days before Christmas. The family was elated, but plans changed to make him more comfortable. Christmas Eve would be back at Heartland and only immediate family. It would be low key and focused on him. He wouldn't like it but as Maddie said at dinner one night, "GG is going to have to cowboy up." On Christmas Day, they would have the expanded family and friends Christmas at Fairfield. Jack was determined to make it, even if for a short time. Lisa was convinced the love of family would give him the strength. At the hospital, the medical team marveled at the support he received from family and friends. Several of the staff were brought to tears at the scenes they watched during his stay. Never had they seen such love and support. Amy, Ty and the kids visited several times and Lyndy even brought Wyatt. Jack meant a lot to him since he had no grandpa. Jack was easy to talk to. Lyndy loved the fact that her GG was so open and kind to her boyfriend. When Max and Lilly arrived for the holiday, he brought JT alone to see Jack. Ty and Amy were dropping by and when they walked in on the three of them and they were in awe. JT was sitting on Jack's lap and Max next to him. Jack and Max were talking about fishing and how they planned to take him and Ben one day. JT's eyes were fixed on both of them listening to every word. He was mesmerized by the two older gents and they were gleaming with pride. Before they entered Amy leaned into her husband's shoulder misty eyed, "Look at them, our son is amazing how he can bond with people who mean so much to him. I love him so much." Ty smiled, kissed her cheek and they walked in the room. JT shrieked, "I'm going fishing!"

It was Christmas Eve and the immediate family gathered much to the chagrin of Lyndy. She really wanted to have Wyatt there but she understood. Her party the previous weekend was a big success as her friends all had a great time. Katie and Clay were great chaperones as Clay provided music for the group. She clung onto Wyatt the entire time except when her friends would grab her away. Maya complained, "Geez Lyndy there are other people here you know. Isn't this party for all of us?" The other girls laughed as Lyndy blushed, "Sorry you are right, but I really like Wyatt." Maya continued, "We know you two are awesome together, just don't forget about us." Lyndy's memories of the party help he be apart from him and as they arrived she was one of the first to see her GG. "GG, you look good, how are you feeling?" Jack smiled as the rest of the Borden girls came to see him along with Georgie and Katie. "I am feeling really well thanks to all of you taking care of me. You know you are my girls and mean the world to me. I love you all very much." Lou and Amy looked on as Lou yelled, "Picture time girls!" After a round of pictures with Jack he finally bellowed, "Good lord this is not my wake. I am fine, I feel good and will be around for a while longer." At first everyone took a serious tone, until Jack smiled. "Just having some fun girls, You know laughter cures all." They all sighed and gave him a group hug. Lisa, sitting with Lilly and Max looked on as Lilly commented, "Look at him, ladies always hovering around him. Lisa he is quite a catch." Lisa smiled, "Yes he is."

Christmas Eve went well, no gifts, just family time. They talked, laughed and sang Christmas Carols, led by Jack on his guitar and Amy's wonderful voice. The family was happy and relieved. GG was home and by all signs was on the mend. The medical staff was optimistic about the cancer treatment and felt he would completely recover. He shared the details with the adults and the kids were given a less complicated description. The group cleared out early, since Jack was getting tired and everyone would have an early morning opening presents at their own houses. The party at Fairfield would be starting in the early afternoon. After the kids settled, Amy and Ty were in their room. Amy said, "Well that was fun, I really think it was good for grandpa and the kids. I am so glad we limited it to just family." Amy became sullen and Ty caught it right away. "Ok Ames, spill it, that is the third time you have looked almost sad." She smiled teary eyed, "I know sorry, I was so worried that we were going to lose him Ty, I know that will happen one day, but I am not ready. I need to be strong for the kids and family.. and you." He picked Amy up and carried her to bed, startling her. "Ty, what are you doing." "Amy Borden you are the most amazing and caring women in the world. You never need to hide anything from me." He cooed as he laid her in their bed. The snuggled as she held on to him for his strength and support. "Ty, thank you." Just being there for each other was all they needed.

It was Christmas morning at the Borden's. Amy woke up in her husband's arms and leaned into kiss him. He woke up looking at the most beautiful blue eyes in the world. "Merry Christmas beautiful." She snuggled into his neck smiling, "I can't believe you let me fall asleep last night, I was definitely looking for a little loving." He smiled, "Well a little morning fun would be Ok, I haven't heard the kids yet." Before he could continue she rolled over on top of him kissing him deeply. Due to the stress of Jack's illness they had not been as intimate and Amy was hungry to be with her man. Ty blurted out, "So I guess you agree?" She put her finger to her lips, "Shhh.. Dr Borden, you talk too much." With that she began her attack, ripping off his boxers and discarding of her sleep shirt. She moved over his body with a sense of need and lust. She was on a mission and was sure he would join in. She stopped and looked into those deep green eyes, "Ty thank you, you have always been there for me and I know this has been hard on you too. I don't know how I could have…" Ty kissed her and rolling her over returned her love and lust. Amy was moaning his name as he met her needs over and over. She moved on top of him never losing eye contact. They moved in unison as she looked down on him. Together they reached their peak of pure love. As they collapsed, Ty rolled her on to her side facing him. Breathlessly he looked into her eyes with a love unmatched. "Amy, I would do anything for you."

As they headed down they heard the kids buzzing. JT was overwhelmed at the presents, especially the ones Maddie showed him that were his. When they walked in they were hit with a group hug/tackle. The kids were so happy to see their parents after sleeping in. Addie was about to say something sarcastic, but Annie sense it putting her hand over her mouth. Amy looked at her, "Don't worry mom, she was going to say something silly and I stopped her. That twin thing works well sometimes." She smiled as Addie stuck her tongue out. The family had a light breakfast then opened presents. All the kids were very happy with what "Santa" had got for them. For JT's sake all gifts came from Santa. JT acted as if every gift was the best he ever got, hugging anyone close as he opened them. As they finished, Maddie noticed a lone gift on the wall behind the tree. "Mom, this one if for you from your Special Santa?" She took it confused but glanced over to her husband, who was smiling. JT screeched, "Open it mommy." With his help she gently opened the gift and as she looked at it tears came to her eyes. Lyndy looked at her mother, "Mom is everything OK?" She smiled still crying and showed it to the kids. It was a painting done by the artist that had done the painting Ty got for her when he had the plane crash. Although she was retired. Ty had contacted her to do this for him. It was a painting of the picture taken long ago with the two of them with Spartan, right before he went into surgery for his broken pastern. The girls had seen the picture but the painting was stunning. She went over to Ty and hugged him deeply, whispering in his ear, "Ty thank you, I love it. This is amazing." She then quietly whispered, "I will let you know how happy I am tonight." Ty smiled as JT yelled out. "Mommy it's you daddy and Spartan, I love him." The group laughed and hugged.

When the Borden's arrived at Fairfield the party was well underway. The kids were excited that some of their friends were they, Wyatt and Grandma June, Gwen and her parents along with Desi and his. Unfortunately for Annie, Jeremy was out of town with family but Lyndy let her Skype with him on her phone. All the friends were there as well including the Stillman's, O'Dell's, Jade and her family as well as Will, Bethany and Billy. The four little boys were hanging out with Jack, Max and Tim and Jack seemed in good spirits as stories were told. Bethany leaned into Amy, "Look at the four of them sitting there just soaking it all in. I think we need to hire them." The party was going well for everyone. Lou and Scott were gloating over their grandkids carrying them everywhere. As usual Lyndy, Wyatt, Katie and Clay were huddled in the corner in what seemed to be a serious conversation. Annie, Addie, Maddie and their friends were huddled together as well. The adults had segregated to a male and female group but as always, Ty and Amy would glance at each other often. Lou smacked her sister, "Amy stop staring at him, you guys have been together forever, give it a rest." Amy smiled, "But Lou I love him." The ladies all awed and continued talking about their kids and husbands. The party was going well when Jack got up with Lisa, Lou and Scott getting everyone's to look their way.

Jack got everyone's attention and began to speak, "Well Merry Christmas everyone and I hope you are having fun. As us older folks sit here we are overwhelmed with the love and happiness of this group. You are all amazing." Jack took a breath as Lisa grabbed his arm. "I want to thank you all for your support during my illness. Lisa and I are confident that your love cured me. And that love is what will help me hang around for a long time." He regrouped as sniffing and smiles abounded. "We had a great year. Many highs and a few challenges. We celebrated the highs together and helped each other through the lows. This is an amazing family. But I want to bring Amy and Ty up with me." Hesitantly and a bit surprised they went to the patriarch of their family. "I would like everyone to head out to the front of the house, kids grab some coats." Going outside, a few people were in the know but the rest of the group headed out with hesitation – those in the know had controlled grins on. As they went outside the saw a large item under a huge tarp with a big bow on top. Jack continued, "The family lost something earlier in the year that meant a lot to all of us. So, the members of the board, less Amy and Ty decided we needed it back. Amy and Ty can you unwrap the last present." Ty and Amy held hands and approached the surprise. They each grabbed and end and pulled it off. Outside of those in the know, the crowd gasped and clapped wildly. The girls ran to their parents hugging them tightly. Ty and Amy went to Jack and hugged him with tears in their eyes. Everyone was overwhelmed with happiness and joy for Heartland's most loving couple. JT jumped in his father's arms hugging him tightly. "Daddy, it's your truck, its back." Old Blue had been restored and returned to its rightful place. Amy and Ty hopped in sitting close and drove it around the circular drive a few times. They got out and kissed each other, completely overwhelmed. No one spoke, just watched as they shared in their happiness.