Chapter Eighty

For Wyatt

A/N – Despite the news from Colorado the Borden family really had a great vacation. The Grandma June storyline kind of just came to me and it will continue. Lyndy is with Wyatt and the rest of the family is back home with another week of spring break left. The family is keeping busy at home and in constant contact with the oldest daughter. Wyatt will need her and the family more than ever and they will not let him down. The kids are desperate to stay distracted but are struggling as Lyndy and Wyatt are on their mind. Enjoy!

P.S. I can't believe this is Chapter Eighty! When I started this project, I was new to this writing thing and it has been a journey. I genuinely appreciate the support from all of you, especially the reviews. I have received some exciting storylines that came from you and I will be using them. I have a lot of my own and the list keeps growing. I feel compelled to continue at least through the end of the year. I would love to get your opinion on that. Also, time has not allowed me to go too far with my Lyndy focused story. Any thoughts on that would be appreciated as well. Be safe.

The Borden's less Lyndy had settled in from the trip. The girls were happy to see the horses and promised Lyndy they would take care of Sundance and Wyatt's horse, Star. After breakfast and a morning call to Lyndy, Amy and Ty spent a little time in the office to get organized for the week. It seemed things went well while they were gone and based off the feedback from Steven, Georgie, Cass and Katie, a front runner emerged to fill the new vet role. Jack and Lisa had them and close family over for a BBQ so they could all hear about the trip and privately about Grandma June. As the Borden's arrived at Heartland, the kids ran to hug GG ad Lisa and everyone else for that matter. They settled to dinner and heard stories from all the kids. Scott spoke up, "I am jealous, I wish I could have come too." Maddie laughed, "But Uncle Scott wouldn't you miss Aunt Lou and everyone else? And what about the animals, they would miss you too." Everyone laughed as Amy whispered to her, "Honey I think he is kidding ." Scott shot them a look, "No I wasn't I would have really liked to come too." He smiled and everyone laughed. JT spent a long time talking about the Aquarium and the beach. He told them, "Dad and I splashed the girls while they were getting sun tans. It was funny. Well until they caught us tickled us a lot." The conversation became more muted as Jack and Lisa quietly asked Amy how June was. Her look told them maybe later so after they cleaned everything up Katie and Clay took the kids to the barn, including the Weber twins. With just adults there Amy and Ty updated them on June's health. Amy spoke solemnly, "Guys, the doctors are not optimistic that she will survive this latest setback. She is too weak and it seems she had been hiding it from everyone." A tear came to her eye as Ty continued, "It seems the plane ride was too much for her. The had to medivac her from the airport and she hasn't been very responsive since then. Like his grandma, Wyatt kept the details from us. Amy has been talking to his Aunt daily and they only believe she has a few days left." Amy finally was able to speak. "Lyndy knows but is being so strong for him." She finally gave in to her concerns and began to cry. Ty held on to her as Jack and Lou held her as well. Jack spoke up, "Well whatever you need you let us know, we are all here for you."

The early part of the week brought back some normalcy. The kids got into their routine for the last week of break. They had some friends over for some trail rides. JT was going to sneak in some fishing with Jack, Tim and some of his buddies. The Twins had a movie and mall day planned with the group of friends along with a lot of rides and Maddie, Gwen and Sylvia took sole responsibility to ride Sundance and Wyatt's horse Star. Maddie had to do something for her sister and her boyfriend since she couldn't be there for them. Amy started off very busy as the horses that were moved from last week were scheduled to arrive. She had 2 horses for each day and was making sure she had support and that Ty or Steven were available to vet them. Ty's workload was not as challenging as using the two candidates while he was gone help the stay current. He had several challenging surgeries planned but overall everything was doable. The team met on Monday and made the decision on the new vet. The decision was made easier when the non-selected candidate let them know she had decided to take a job in Kananaskis where she was from. They planned to make the offer at the end of the week so they could get everything in writing. Ty spoke to Dr. Molder to make sure he was good with the timeline. The offer would be made to future DVM, Amanda Ross who was at the top of the upcoming graduate class and who on more than one time mentioned how amazing the company was. Cass and Ellie were excited because it evened things up, Three men and three women vets. Georgie joked when they made the decision. High fiving Cass and Amy she said," We definitely are making the right decision, the more women the better." Steven, Ty and Scott just huffed as Steven mumbled, "Yea great." After a look from his pregnant wife and mother of his twins, he retracted his comment quickly as everyone laughed.

On Wednesday after dinner the kids were busy on their homework. Since Lyndy and Wyatt were gone Ty decided to help. As usual Annie was working with Maddie and they were making great progress. Maddie called to Amy, "Mom, come here and look at how I am doing. Annie is awesome and I have learned a few tricks from her. Look!" She proudly showed her work and Amy smiled giving them both a hug. "Maddie this is great," hugging her again and mouthing thanks you to Annie. She was so happy that she was so committed to helping he little sister. The group continued on and Amy went back to her book on the couch. As she sat down her phone buzzed. She looked down and saw Lyndy's name come on the screen. It was time for the call but she decided to answer before she let everyone know. She answered and said, "Hey Lyndy." On the other end she heard some muffled talking and couldn't help but notice that Lyndy was sobbing, trying to speak. She looked at Ty and walked into the other room as she had a feeling she would need some privacy. Ty kept the kids focused understanding as well that the news may not be good. She walked into the study and gently closed the door. She whispered, "Honey just take your time, I am here alone and will wait until you are ready to talk." She faintly heard Wyatt's Aunt talking in a consoling manner to him. She felt a lump in her throat as she listened intently for her daughter to speak. Finally she could tell she was ready. She heard quiet whispers in between gasps, "Mom, mom are you there?" Amy gently responded, "Yes baby I am hear." "Mom she's gone. Grandma June passed away a few minutes ago. Mom, it was so sad and Whyatt is really bad. Mom he collapsed and the nurses had to get him up to a chair." She took a breath and Amy spoke, "Honey, I am so, so sorry, how are you?" She responded quietly, "I don't know, I am so worried about Wyatt, I don't know what to do mom. I wish you and dad were here. Oh sorry can I call you right back, the doctor just walked in." Amy answered, "Of course I will be right here." Ty walked in the room as Amy broke out in deep sobs. He went to held her in his arms. He realized what had happened as tears come to his eyes as well.

Maddie noticed that her parents had disappeared. Figuring another make out session was underway she walked over and put her ear to the door to see if she could hear anything. Addie walked over and whispered, "Maddie leave them alone." Maddie held up her hand and whispered back, "No listen, I think mom is crying and I hear dad talking to her quietly, Something is wrong, should we knock." The waved Annie over as JT was engrossed in a picture he was drawing for Wyatt. Annie put her ear to the door and she heard the same thing. Taking the initiative she gently knocked on the door. They heard them talking quietly and this dad opened the door to let them in. He whispered, Annie can you get your brother." Maddie and Addie walked in and saw the tear-stained face of their mother. They reached her hugging her tightly. Annie and JT joined Amy on the couch and their dad say across on a chair. Ty cleared his throat and spoke, "Guys we just heard some very sad news. Grandma June has passed away. Lyndy just told mom but had to hang up but will be calling back." The room was silent as the kids tried to absorb what had happened. The girls knew that people died but had never experienced it this close and personal. All three started crying in their mothers arms along with Amy as JT looked on in horror. He didn't completely understand and ran to his dad's lap. He began to tear up, "Daddy is Wyatt Ok?" Ty smiled at his thoughtful little boy. "Well buddy Wyatt is very sad and will be for a while. We just need to be there for him and support him in any way that we can." As they all tried to gather themselves Amy's phone rang again. "Guys it's Lyndy, let me talk to her and I will tell you that you are with us. We need to understand she is very upset as well." They all nodded in agreement as Amy said hello keeping the speaker muted.

Lyndy seemed a little less distressed but solemnly spoke. "Sorry about that mom, the doctor just came in to talk about what happened. Wyatt seems a little better but he looks so lost. I just hope I can help him." Amy smiled, "Honey all you can do is be there for him. He will reach out when he needs your love and understanding. His moods will change a lot, just be patient. Hey, your brother and sisters are here and we told them, can I put you on speaker?" She responded sounding a little relieved, "sure just let me step out to the lounge." Amy waited until Lyndy gave her the all clear and put the speaker on. As the oldest she gathered herself and said hello to them. I am glad mom and dad told you and I am Ok." Maddie spoke up first as tears returned., "Lyndy we are so sorry, we loved Grandma June very much and Wyatt, he is our brother. How is he?" Lyndy took a second and responded, "Thanks guys, I know what she meant to all of us and thank you for considering Wyatt your brother. I will be honest, he is not Ok, but he will be , it will just take time." Annie and Addie added to the conversation as the 4 girls actively chatted. Lyndy noticed that JT was not talking. When there was a moment of silence she spoke up, "Hey JT are you there, are you Ok." JT sighed heavily, "Lyndy I am so sad for Wyatt, can I talk to him, please." Ty interrupted, "Bud, he is really sad right now and I think we need to wait a bit to talk with him." Lyndy spoke up, "You know what, he just walked out and is heading my way. Give me a second." Lyndy muted the phone for a few minutes and told Wyatt her family was on the line and that JT wanted to talk to him privately. Lyndy came back, "JT Wyatt wants to talk to you but alone. Mom can you take the phone off speaker and give it to him?" She handed the phone to JT and he went to his room. After 15 minutes, JT walked back and handed the phone to his mom, "Wyatt wants to talk to everyone."

Amy pushed the speaker button and told him they were there. Quietly Wyatt spoke, JT just reminded me that you are my family so I just wanted to thank you for calling. I am very sad but with all of your help I now I will be Ok. Mr. and Mrs. Borden, Lyndy has been my rock and is holding me now as I am talking to you. Addie, Annie and Maddie you are my sisters now and JT knows what I think of him. It will be a few days but I should be home soon and I can't wait to see all of you." They heard his aunt call for him as Lyndy took the phone back speaking up, "JT I don't know what you guys talked about but thank you. He seems more settled. I have to go but mom and dad can I talk to you privately." Her sisters and brother said goodbye as Amy and Ty stayed on. "Mom and Dad, I don't know what is going to happen but I know she wanted to be buried back in Hudson with Wyatt's grandpa and his parents. I think Wyatt wants to come home as planned but dad, he needs you. You are his father and he needs one right now." Amy held Ty's hand tightly as Ty responded, "Of course I will come honey. I will book a flight and be there tomorrow. When I get there we can schedule our flights back home." Amy added, "Lyndy I will talk to Wyatt's Aunt and let them know dad is coming. I am sure she will be good with it." Lyndy sighed as if the weight of the world has been lifted from her. "Thank you so much, I don't want to fail him and be able to be there to help him. Dad, he needs you so much. For a while we have talked about your relationship and he really considers you to be a father to him, kind of like GG was to you. Let me know what time your flight arrives and I will get one of his cousins to take me to the airport to get you. I love you both very much." Ty sunk into Amy's hold, he was overwhelmed with her words. "Amy what she said was unbelievable, I know we were close but not like a father and son." Amy smiled and held him while she whispered in his ear, "Ty I believe it, you have been a strong influence on him and I know her cares for you. And Ty, Lyndy was right, look at you and grandpa. Your relationship with him is much the same. I think you should go and help those two get through this. I will miss you a lot and I love you a whole bunch." They both laughed and went to see the kids and check on them. It was going to be a restless night for everyone.

Ty was able to book an early flight and get his vet stuff covered. He decided to recommend that the two students who had helped while they were gone to continue and to move back the offer to when he returned. After a quick goodbye to the kids and a longer one with Amy he headed to the airport. He took the smaller SUV and was leaving it there so they had a ride home. He finished his kiss and hug as Amy whispered, "I hope last night holds you over while, you were amazing." He pinched her side, "You were pretty good to." She playfully slapped him and gave him one last kiss before her pulled away. Amy felt a hand on her arm as Maddie laughed, "Don't worry you love buddy will be back soon." She laughed and tickled her little girl. During breakfast Amy called everyone filling them in about Grandma June. The kids were being strong as they told their friends too. Jenn offered to have JT over to take his mind off things and Amy was grateful for it. She had a lot to do the rest of the week as did the kids. She felt that was good so they could keep their mind off of Wyatt and their sister. Just before noon Ty called Amy saying he had just landed. He promised to get back to her later when he got settled. She laughed, "Well I talked to Lyndy she is already there waiting for you. Keep an eye out. And guess what, Wyatt is with her along with his cousin Alice who gave them a ride. I just wanted to prepare you." He laughed nervously, "Thank you Amy, I just hope I handle this better than my father's death." She spoke proudly, "Ty you went to be with him and Lyndy, you are already doing much better. Ty you are an amazing man and father, I bet they are happy you are there. Love you." He said goodbye and deplaned. As he walked toward baggage claim he pondered what their meeting would be like. As he thought he heard a familiar voice yelling "Daddy, over here." He smiled and went to hug his daughter tightly. He stepped back as Wyatt reached for him holding him tightly with tears in his eyes. "Thank you dad."

As they drove to Wyatt aunt's house Ty looked out the window. He had never been to Denver and noticed the mountains. He laughed, "Kind of like home Lyndy." Wyatt smiled, "Yep the Rockies are beautiful but I think Albertas Rockies are more beautiful. Or maybe it's the people that live there." His cousin laughed, "You mean a certain person right." Winking at Lyndy. The chatted lightly as they pulled up in the driveway of their home. Wyatts Aunt, Uncle and two more cousins were waiting. They greeted Ty and his aunt even hugged him. Ty it's good to see you and thank you for coming. I know the kids are really happy you did. Let's get you settled and we will update you on the rest of the week. If is Ok you are going to bunk with Wyatt, we have a houseful for sure. Ty smiled, "I think that would be great, you and me Wyatt bunk buddies." Ty got settled, grabbed Lyndy and called her mom. Lyndy spoke up, "Hey mom it feels so good that dad is here, thanks for being Ok with it. Wyatt already seems to be better and guess what, they are rooming together. "Well Lyndy that is good to hear but make sure you give them the ten-minute warning." Thay all laughed and Amy had to get back to work so she said goodbye. Ty grabbed Lyndy's hand and they headed to the kitchen to meet with the family. Wyatt's aunt spoke to the group. "Well, as you know Aunt June wants to be buried with her husband, son and daughter in law, Wyatt's mom and dad, in Hudson." As she spoke Wyatt grabbed Lyndy's hand tightly. "So I talked to Wyatt and we are going to have a service on Friday for all of the Colorado family. Then we will send June home for another service and burial for her family and friends in Hudson. Some of us will come for that if that is Ok honey," looking over to Wyatt. He shook his head yes. "We think maybe the following weekend will work in Hudson, but Ty I would like to work with you on that. For us, the weekend would be better so we could get back before the start of the week." "Makes sense, we can work on that later if you would like," Ty agreed.

Before dinner, Lyndy, Ty and Wyatt went for a walk. They just wanted some fresh air and enjoyed seeing the area, which was very nice. They decided that the three of them would call the family after dinner do Lyndy texted her mom to let he know. Dinner was very nice for Ty and Lyndy as the family was fun to be with. Wyatt's Aunt and Uncle told stories of their aunt June. It seemed she was a bit of a troublemaker in the family and several of the stories surprised the Hudson group. It seemed that some bickering happened between June and his aunt's mom, who were sisters. She joked, "When I was young Wyatt your dad and I used to go hide in a tree a lot as those two went at it. We never knew why they argued but eventually your Grandpa got a job in Calgary and they moved away. We stayed in touch a little but it was never the same. Wyatt your dad and I remained close and I loved you mother. Before you were born they came down a couple of times, not telling June." She took a breath. "I was so sad when they died Wyatt. I couldn't get my mom to come and was angry at her, but I was there with your uncle. You may not remember because June was keeping a close eye on you. She loved you so much, never forget that." Wyatt smiled and thanked her quietly, memories of his parents death were heavy on his mind and he really didn't want to talk about it. After dinner, the three of them went to Wyatt's room and called home. They had a good call and Lyndy noticed that Wyatt's spirit rose a bit especially when JT talked. She was determined to find out what they talked about but that would have to come later. It had been a long day so after the call she gave them each a kiss and laughed, "10 Minutes." As she headed out two pillows hit the door right behind her head.

The next day's went well both I Denver and Hudson. Ty made travel arrangements for Saturday to head to Calgary mid-day. A service in Hudson was schedule for the following weekend giving the Colorado contingent time to get there late Friday and head home on Sunday afternoon. Lisa and Lou were already planning everything and Jack surprised Ty when he said that Max and Lilly would be flying back with them for an unplanned stay for the service. He had completely forgotten about them in all the activity going on. Max and Lilly completely understood as they told him they planned to attend the Colorado service as well. Wyatt was overwhelmed at the love everyone had for his grandma even though they had been issues in the past. On night he was talking to Ty, "I know there trouble between grandma and her sister that affected the family. But I feel like my Aunt and her family have gone past that and really care for me." Ty smiled, Wyatt we can't change what people before us did but we can change things for the better moving forward. I see that with you, and your aunt's family. I did the same thing with my mom and it was the best thing I ever did." Wyatt looked at him with happy eyes, "Mr. Borden Thank you for coming, I really appreciate it and I know Lyndy does. I love you and your family like they are my family. And I hope we will continue to be close, like a father and son. I will always love my dad but I now feel that our relationship is very strong." Ty laughed, "Well then stop the Mr. Borden stuff and when you are comfortable you can call me dad or Ty or whatever you want. Amy and I love you like a son and are so happy that you and Lyndy have found each other." The hugged and went to bed. Wyatt was conflicted, sad about his grandma but happy about his new parents, new siblings and the love of his life.

The service was perfect as the family celebrated the life of an amazing person. Several people spoke including Wyatt and Ty. Lyndy surprised Wyatt when she sang one of Grandma Lyndy's songs called When to Let Go. Ty smiled remembering when Amy sang it right before he left for Mongolia. There wasn't a dry eye in the house as her voice and the words were so beautiful. Ty secretly taped it on his phone so Amy and the kids could hear it that night. Wyatt seemed at peace and was really surprised when Max and Lilly showed up. Lilly hugged him as a grandma would and promised to be there for him if he ever needed to talk. Ty smiled at her as she hugged Wyatt tightly. He knew she was a woman of her word now and he really was happy her and Max were there and flying back with them. Ty went to his mom and hugged her, "Mom that was really nice. Wyatt needs us right now and you being here is perfect." She smiled and whispered in his ear. "Ty, he wants to be your son, he told me. And so that makes me his grandma. I told him I can't replace June but I will be here for him, anytime he needs a grandma to talk to." Ty tearfully hugged her again and glance over to Lyndy and Wyatt as they watched, both smiling. The rest of the reception at Wyatt's Aunt's house went well. Wyatt seemed to be at ease as the guest greeted him and explained their relationship to his grandma. Lyndy was by his side the entire time never letting go of his hand. She smiled and greeted each person introducing herself as his friend. Everything he corrected her saying that she was his girlfriend. Ty got a text from Amy saying they were ready for their nightly call. He motioned to Lyndy and the three of them went to the room Ty and Wyatt were using. When they opened up the screen they as Amy and the kids smiling back. After some conversation, much to Lyndy's hesitancy, Ty played back her song. Amy was visibly shaken and the rest of the girls were crying. Amy finally spoke, "Lyndy that was beautiful." Then Wyatt asked if he could talk to JT alone. Everyone said goodbye and before he handed the phone to him Ty promised he would call her later. Wyatt and JT talked quietly for 10 minutes before the hung up.

After an emotional farewell breakfast Wyatt's cousins loaded up their bags and prepared to take them to the airport for the lunchtime departure. Max and Lilly would meet them at the gate as his daughter was taking them. Ty and his aunt spoke privately about the arrangements to get June's casket to Calgary. He would be handling it making sure it made it to the Funeral Home. With Max's help they drew up the paperwork to add Ty to June's estate so he could take care of things locally. After other wishes of June were taken care of, the remainder for the estate would be put in a trust for his college education. The flight went well and all three of them were happy to see the familiar skyline of Calgary. When Amy had talked to Ty last night, she told him that Jack and Lisa would come with her to the airport. And for Wyatt they were bringing JT. Lilly and Max would go back with Jack and Lisa to Heartland and Amy and JT would ride back with them. Ty decided not to tell Lyndy and Wyatt so they would be surprised. As they walked toward baggage, Lyndy screamed, GG, dad I see GG and Mimi." She gasped again, "And mom is here too." Wyatt looked in that direction and saw JT in Amy's arms. He smiled at him not being able to say anything. They met them with a lot of hugs going on. Wyatt hugged Amy and took JT into his arms. They were inseparable.

When the Miracle Ranch car got home they were greeted by Maddie, Annie and Addie who with Katie and Lou's help had cleaned the entire house. Lou planned to have Maggie's send dinner over as Amy decided it would be just the Borden's and Wyatt for dinner. Everyone totally understood. The family settled in, unpacking all of their bags. All the kids went to the barn and went on a short trail ride, JT on Wyatt's lap. When they got back the family sat down to Maggie's fried chicken and all the sides. The had a happy time eating and talking. After they were done Maddie, Annie, Addie and even JT cleaned up. Amy, Ty, Lyndy and Wyatt went outside to sit on the porch. It was warm enough where they just needed a light coat. After a few minutes of silence, Lyndy had to ask, "Wyatt it is not our business but I would like to know what you and JT talked about." Amy smiled and put her hand on her daughter's shoulder, "Honey that is between the two of them." Wyatt smiled, "No I want to tell you. JT and I have been building a strong bond for a while. I think sometimes he is overwhelmed with all of the women here." Lyndy jabbed his ribs. "Anyway the first time we talked he told me how sorry he was and if there was anything I needed he was there. He was so kind and caring. The second time we talked he asked again and he offered me something. He said that he wanted to be my brother, for real. He said he loves me and wanted to make sure I know that." Tears filled Amy, Lyndy and Ty's eyes not even knowing how to respond amazed at the depth of JT's words. As they sobbed, Wyatt continued, "By the way I said yes and that I loved him too." Wyatt was so happy that he was home.