Chapter One Hundred-Seven

Taking a Breath, Recovery

A/N – As I responded to one of my consistent reviewers the last chapter came from left field. As I was writing I felt obligated to tell a story around abuse. It is a subject that sometimes is hard to confront but necessary to address. As I told him, my goal is to continue to develop my 8 main characters – Ty, Amy, the kids and Wyatt. They are my focus. Moving forward I feel a need to continue to focus on the recovery of the twins and Ty. In Ty's case he has two issues that are weighing on him. Once I give this the right amount of time we will move into the Thanksgiving holiday and the anniversary weekend away. The end of the year will be filled with multiple stories about family, business, school and most importantly Amy and Ty. I just crossed 250 reviews so keep the feedback coming along with story ideas. I appreciate them all. Mature Content Enjoy!

Annie and Addie ended up spending the weekend at Maya's. Bella enjoyed the company and needed the support. On Saturday they came to the Miracle Ranch and went on a picnic trail ride with Lyndy, Wyatt, Maddie, Gwen, Desi and Jeremy. The others were aware of the situation but kept away from any conversation. The intent was just to have fun and relax. As the tacked up the horses, Amy and Ty brought over the picnic lunch. Bella came over to Amy and Ty hugging them both tightly whispering, "Thank you for everything. You guys are awesome." Ty whispered to her and Amy, "Bella if you need anything, just let us know. Anything at all." The rest of the group smiled at the interaction and understood support from them and Maya' parents was needed for Bella to get through this. With a little more than two weeks left before the Thanksgiving holiday, Bella would need extra support at school and at home. Annie and Addie along with Maya, made sure they were around her to deflect any possible issues. The school officials and CPS rep met with Bella a few times. Her mom was making progress and they set up a few meetings. Bella's mom had decided to move out of their house since the memories would always be there and also put it up for sale. Her dad's trial date was set and there was no doubt in the point of view of the police that he would be found guilty and sentenced for a long term in prison. Abuse was uncovered that had been going on for longer than first thought and the abuse to Bella had been almost a year. She spent time talking to a child psychologist and she uncovered some extremely detailed information. Per her request Maya sat with her every time they met, which although a little unorthodox was allowed. Bella and Maya were very close and together they supported each other unconditionally. Ty and Amy were also focused on staying connected with Annie and Addie, making sure they were Ok. Lyndy also stepped in to support them as her parents were in awe of her confidence and maturity.

In the office one morning, Ty had received a call from his mom that the appointment had went well but there would not be any results to discuss for a while. With Amy by his side, Ty asked, "Mom did he give you a timeline?" She laughed, "My son always looking for answers. You know Amy he was always an inquisitive boy, I wish I had a nickel for every question he asked me." She hesitated and sighed, "I regret not being able to answer them all the time Ty and I apologize." Ty teared up a little, "Mom you don't have to be sorry, I know you tried your best and it is all in the past. Now you are amazing and we love you very much. As soon as you hear something please let us know." She agreed and they said their goodbyes. Amy held onto him as he held his head down. "Amy I am scared. Between Bella and this I have a lot on my mind. I apologize if I have been distant lately." She smiled and pulled him in for a hug. "Ty you have nothing to be sorry about. Your mom and the girls know how much you love them. And I see how much you love me." He smiled as there was a knock on the door. Amy frowned, "I need to go, we have a new high-profile client I have to meet with. You know, gotta pay the bills." She kissed him quickly on the lips and headed out. Ty refocused himself on the surgery he had planned that afternoon. Both of them were very busy up to the holiday break which for him was good so he could keep his mind on other things. At dinner in the middle of the week, Ty reminded the kids that Grandma Lilly would be flying in on Saturday and there was going to be a welcome dinner at Heartland. Maddie spoke up, "Can we all go to pick her up, maybe we can make some signs and have a little fun. She seemed a little down so maybe she would like it." Amy smiled, "I think that is a great idea, Maddie get things together and we will take both cars to get her. Everyone in?" They got a thumbs up from the kids and JT spoke up. "Dad, everything will be Ok." Ty looked at him confused, "Buddy what do you mean." He looked up matter of fact, "Well GG and Grandma came to see me the other night when I was sleeping. We talked about a lot of stuff and Grandma told me about Grandma Lilly and how she was sick. GG put her hand on my shoulder and told me it would be hard but she would be Ok. And then she told me to tell you." The table was deathly silent as Ty stared at him. The kids knew that Lilly was not feeling well and had seen their dad was distracted about it. Finally Ty gathered the strength to speak. "Thanks JT and make sure you tell them I said thanks too." Amy grabbed his hand under that table and changed the subject.

That night as they went through rounds Ty and Amy tried to be as open as possible with each of the kids. When they sat with JT they talked a little more about what he said and as usual he was Ok and seemed content with his message. When they sat with Annie and Addie they talked through how Bella was doing and also how they were. Addie spoke up, "Dad she is doing Ok. She is a little nervous because Saturday her mom is coming to dinner with Maya's family and spending the night. Her mom is much better but still regretful about letting things happen the way they did." Amy smiled, "Well hopefully this will be a step in the right direction in building their relationship back to where it was. Bella is an amazing young lady and you two are great friends. But how are you?" Annie smiled, "Mom this sucks but we are good. We see how lucky we are to have you as our parents and amazing siblings. But dad, how are you?" He smiled and hugged them both. "I will be Ok because of your mom and all of you." As soon as they walked into Lyndy's room, she immediately went to her dad and hugged him. Then to his surprise Wyatt did the same. He chuckled, "Thank you both but I will be Ok. Not gonna lie things are tough now but we will all get through it." Lyndy hugged him again as Wyatt spoke with conviction. "Ty, um dad, whenever you need someone to talk to I am here. You and Amy were here for me when I needed it and I will do the same." Ty just looked an hugged him again with no words said. Ty and Amy got ready for bed and as Amy brushed out her hair she noticed Ty sitting up in bed with his eyes closed. She made a decision and headed over to him. She crawled up next to him and kissed his neck. He opened his eyes, "Sorry you startled me." She laughed, "Well Dr. Borden we have a lot going on so I made a decision. For the next hour I am going to do everything I can to help you forget." Before he could respond she latched onto his lips with a passionate kiss. She reached down to his boxers and playfully snapped his waistband. He smiled and did the same to her panties. Seems he had taken the bait so she began her attack, kissing him all over his body and removing his boxers quickly. Her clothes were discarded as well as they both began to kiss and touch all the right places. Amy continued to be the aggressor stoking his manhood with passionate lust. She moved her lips down his toned stomach and reached her target. Ty could barely breathe as she pleasured him with her touch. She brought him almost to the brink but then he returned the favor kissing and tasting her. She arched her back and moaned a little louder than she should but she really didn't care. Their love making moved to a fluid joining and movements that brought them both pleasure. Ty moaned her name as Amy grabbed the sheets tightly. As they climaxed again they fell back on the bed. Panting heavily he reached over caressing her damp stomach, "Amy you can divert me anytime you want." Amy couldn't even speak, she just moved to his lips. Finally she whimpered, "Wow that was amazing, I love you." She then got a serious look, "Ty please make sure you talk to me, I am here for you, always." He smiled and pulled her in for a hug. Their sleep came quick and peaceful.

The next morning the family was still a little shook from there little brothers comment at dinner. As expected Amy and Ty were a little late for breakfast but managed to get down and eat with the kids. The table was quiet until JT spoke up. "Mom and Dad, rainchecks last night and this morning?" After a brief delay, the table erupted in laughter as Ty went to JT and tickled his ribs. The girls joined in and Wyatt through up a high five. He had a way to put things in perspective even thought he was almost 4, which he called 3 and three quarters. The happy family went on about this day and Ty decided to call his mom just to see how she was doing. After they got caught up on work stuff in the office, Amy went to sit on his lap and they video called her. After a few rings, Max answered Lilly's phone. Smiling he answered, "Hey you two how's it going. We can't wait to see you guys. And I know Lilly is really excited to be coming a little early. She won't admit it but she loves hanging with Lisa and Casy and even crazy Lou. Have you two been behaving. JT was telling me the last time I was there that you guys kiss in public way too much." He took a breath and continued, "But enough of that, Lilly is resting. The test she had were taxing on her. I know she didn't give you the details but they lasted almost 5 hours. She is fine just a little sore and weak. Before you ask we don't know anything but hope to hear in a few days." He looked over his shoulder and leaned into the phone, "Ty, your mom is a brave and strong women but she needs all of us to be strong. She doesn't need pity or sadness. She needs us to be there for her." Ty smiled meekly, "Thank you Max for loving my mom. You have brought her something she really never had and we love you for it." He was distracted as he felt Lilly behind his back. She leaned into him kissing his cheek and smiled, "What are you doing on my phone talking to my son and favorite daughter in law. You two haven't been caught making out again have you?" The four of them chuckled as Lilly took the phone to see her son. She looked tired but as she talked it seemed her face started to flush with pride and happiness. "Ty and Amy I don't know what this old fool told you but I am fine. Just anxious to hear what is up and with I need to do to fix it. You know I figured all along that my indiscretions in my life would come back to pay a visit but I have never felt more loved that I do know. You two, your family, Max's family and my lover boy here have made me feel, made me finally feel what family and love are. No matter what I am the happiest I have ever been. I love all of you." Amy smiled as Ty couldn't speak, "Lilly we all love you deeply and the kids are excited that you are coming a week early. I won't lie Max, JT is a little upset you won't be here early too but he will get over it." He laughed in the background and gloated, "Don't worry he has already arrange some fishing time with Jack and I." Ty finally spoke up, "
Mom we love you and are so happy that you feel the same. We will be there Saturday to pick you up so just look for the big crowd of Bordens making fools of themselves." They hung up and Ty leaned into his wife trying to catch his breath.

The remainder of the week was calm which was welcomed by Amy and Ty. After the call with his mom and Max, Ty's concerns only escalated. But with Amy's support he focused on what he could control and was looking forward for her arrival. Bella continued to improve. Her court appointed child psychologist was the only area of concern so Amy and Maya's mom fought for her to go to a new one that was recommended by Celene. The powers to be agreed and Bella was very pleased with the new person. Her father's initial court appearance went as expected and his trial was set after the first of the year. In the meantime, Bella remained at Maya's but as her mom approved the Family Services team were looking for a place where they could live together under supervision. Amy and Ty had an idea that they pitched to the ream. They could set aside a cabin at the Dude Ranch for them to stay at for a while that provided meals. Bella could catch the bus with Annie and Addie and if her mom wanted to she could help out at the Day Care Center. She had left her job during the abuse so needed something to do. Maya's mom thought it was a great idea as she had experience in Day Care. Years ago she ran a childcare service out of her house. The team agreed so Amy set everything up. There was a meeting with Amy and Bella's mom where some ground rules were set. They would be supervised and someone would be there every few days to look over how things were going. She agreed and thanked Amy for her generosity. She smiled meekly, "Bella told me that your husband had a difficult childhood, I hope he is doing Ok with all of this. And your girls, Maya and her mom have been wonderful to my daughter. I don't know how I am ever going to repay all of you." Amy put her hand on her shoulder and looked into her eyes. "We don't do this for repayment, we do this because we love Bella and you and want to help you get back to normal. I know that is a challenge but I know from experience with Ty, you can get there." Ty continued to keep himself busy with work. His kids made sure they kept an eye on him, especially Wyatt. When they were out practicing his driving they chatted about different things. Wyatt started a conversation, "I heard that Bella and her mom are going to stay at a Dude Ranch Cabin for a while and Bella's mom is going to help out at the Day Care Center. That is pretty cool what you and Amy are doing for them. Crazy Maddie is setting up a schedule where Maya and her sisters are going to check on them regularly. She even pulled Lisa, Casey, Lou and Lilly in while she is here." He hesitated as he remembered about th abuse that Ty and his mom had suffered through. "Do you think it is Ok that your mom helps out to?" Ty smiled knowing where he was going. "I think my mom will love helping out. And Wyatt I know where you are going and I love you for it. I am doing Ok, especially when you pay attention to the road." He laughed, "Gotcha, actually you are doing great. How many weeks until you take the test?" Wyatt pumped his chest out, "39 days! And 40 days until our car date" Ty rolled his eyes, "Let's make sure you pass first and we will discuss it then."

The family was on the way to pick up Lilly. Lyndy and Wyatt stayed back to help Lisa and Jack get things ready for her. Wyatt and Steven moved some furniture around and Lyndy helped get things set up nicely. The put nice bed linens and some flowers around the room she was using. Lyndy even set up pictures of her family around to make her feel at home. She knew it meant a lot to her but also wanted to make sure her dad felt good as well. She was especially concerned about him and was determined to be there for him. Maddie and JT held up their signs as Amy, Ty and the twins scoured the crowd for their grandma. Addie saw her first yelling to get her attention. She looked over and had a big smile as she saw the signs and the kids jumping up and down. She caught Ty's eyes and give the biggest smile to him and Amy. They walked over as Ty hugged her first then Amy followed. Annie and Addie took her bags as JT lunged himself at her hugging her tightly. Lilly was overwhelmed and began to mist up. She looked at the kids, "Tell your father not to worry, these are happy tears." Never in her life had she experience such love and caring. Ty found her suitcase and they headed to the car. The kids were talking a mile a minute and Lilly put her focus on them. They loaded up the SUV for the ride to Heartland. In the car she asked, "Where are Lyndy and Wyatt?" Maddie boasted, "They are back at Heartland helping get things ready for you grandma, you are going to be treated like the Queen." She smiled and looked out the window as they headed out of the city. She smiled at Amy, "You are so lucky, this place is so peaceful and the mountains are beautiful with the snow on top." Amy smiled as she saw the peace in her eyes and then glanced over to Ty as he focused on the road. She grabbed his hand and squeezed it tightly using her other hand to gram his arm. Immediately JT blurted out, "Oh Oh Grandma, mommy and daddy are doing the looking at each other thing. That means trouble. Mom don't kiss him, he is driving." Everyone laughed as Amy quickly kissed his cheek as JT huffed. Lilly laughed and spoke up, "JT you should be happy that you mommy and daddy love each other so much. One of the first times I met you mom I told her that she was good for him and guess what, I was right."

The two weeks before Thanksgiving was busy but in a weird way relaxing. The kids were busy wrapping up some school projects before they had the week off for Thanksgiving. Ty was extremely busy but still found a lot of time to spend with his mom and the family. She joined them for dinner several nights and the girls made sure they spent time with her as often as they could. Ty noted that his mom seemed very happy and mentioned to him and Amy that she was so happy to be here. They only had casual conversations about her test results that might be available next week when Max was here. One night after dinner, Ty had to do a post op check on a surgery so Lilly asked Amy to drive her back to Heartland. Amy felt there was a reason and when they got on their way Lilly spoke up, "Amy, how is he doing. He seems Ok but I catch him looking at me with that look, you know the one." Amy smiled, "Yea I do, I think he is Ok. The kids have really been there for him and I talk about it to him when he wants to. Ty is a deep-thinking man and he processes things differently than others. We are all just anxious but I will guarantee you this, we will be there for both of you." She reached over to hold Lilly's hand. After a few moments Lilly smiled and continued to speak, "Did I tell you that Lyndy and I had a conversation the other day about him. She is such a wonderful young lady Amy. While telling me that she will always be there for me she also said that she is keeping a close eye on her dad. She mentioned how close Wyatt and Ty have become and how he offered to talk to him as well. Amy, she is so much like you but also has that deep caring thing that Ty has. She is a joy and," She hesitated, "I never thought I would have people like you all in my life, ever." Amy smiled as she teared up as well. "Thank you for saying that Lilly and you're right. She has a lot of those wonderful characteristics that Ty has and a lot of that is because of you." Lilly chuckled and Amy laughed, "Now I better concentrate on driving. If JT finds out I may be distracted, he will let me know about it." The laughed together as Amy pulled up in front of Heartland. They saw Jack and Lisa on the porch having a coffee as they waved at them. Amy and Lilly walked up as Jack spoke up, "Lilly how was dinner with that crazy bunch. How many times did JT get everyone to laugh. He is quite a kid." Lilly smiled and answered. "Dinner was great, those kids are something and spending time with them is always memorable. But I have to tell you both something. This young lady next to me is and amazing and kind person. Like I have said, she has been a godsend for my son and for me and I love her dearly. You guys did a great job!" Jack smiled and thanked her hugging his granddaughter tightly.

That night while lying in bed after some passionate love making Amy told Ty about his conversation with Lilly. She had decided to tell him to reassure him that Lilly was doing fine and actually more worried about him. When she told him about the conversation she had with Lyndy, Ty looked at her as his eyes began to tear up. Amy didn't know what was up so she looked directly at him and asked, "Ty what is up, please talk to me." He gathered himself cupping her face and kissing her deeply. "Thank you for sharing that with me. I am so relieved that she is Ok, I can't deny that it has been on my mind. And Amy I love you so much for being there for me. You are the most amazing partner and friend a guy could have." They kissed again, a little more aggressively until he pulled back. "And one more thing, that daughter of ours is unbelievable. Her maturity and unconditional love reminds me of someone else I know." She smiled looking lovingly into his emerald eyes, "You mean me." He thought for a minute, "Uh yea, I was actually thinking of me but yea, you too." As he smiled broadly she jabbed him in his ribs. "You are in trouble mister, I was thinking about continuing our night but now, not so much." As she pulled away jokingly he grabbed her and moved to the area of her body that stopped her in her tracks. She moaned breathlessly and leaned into him, "Ok, forget what I just said." Their night went on for a while longer as both of them were as content and happy as they had been in a while.

Over the weekend Max arrived and joined the entire family for a big dinner at Heartland on Saturday the day he arrived. During dinner he spent a lot of time close to his wife. Both Ty and Amy couldn't help noticing his expression which showed concern and love for her. Ty whispered to Amy, "Aren't they all going fishing in the morning? I have a horse to do a preop on but I am going to ask Scott to do it. I want to see if I can get some time with him." She sat momentarily gazing at her husband as he responded, "What?" "See this is the reason that I can't resist you Dr. Borden. If I could, I would take you somewhere private and have my way with you, like the other night." He looked at her smiling and snuggling into her neck, "I believe Mrs. Borden, it was I that had my way with you." Suddenly they were interrupted by a glaring Lilly and JT who had his arms folded. "Mom and Dad, Grandma and I need to chat with you. Grandma?" Lilly tried to keep herself under control as their conversation drew attention from some of the others. "Well Amy and Ty we believe that you need an intervention. We are both happy that you love each other and we love you too, but you guys need to keep it under control. I mean you do know that you are in public and have children that are affected by your actions. We just want you to know that." Amy, Ty and Lilly along with everyone else were really trying to keep control of their laughter as JT stood stoically. Finally, Ty answered the intervention, "Mom, JT we understand and apologize, Mom and I sometimes get a little carried away. We promise we will do better and keep what you said in mind." JT and Lilly shook their heads in agreement and hugged them both. Many of the onlookers walked away to privately release their pent-up laughter. Ty whispered to Amy, "God that boy is something else."

The fishing trip went well and allowed Ty to talk with Max privately. Max assured him that she was good and whatever the outcome of the results, they would be transparent and look to them to help develop a plan. As he told Amy on the porch that afternoon, she listened as he spoke. "Amy he didn't say it out right but the preliminary belief that is it cancer, probably in the liver of kidney. Everything is speculation but he is concerned. But he assured me that he also knew that Lilly had the support in place to help her through this and he thanked me for that. He told me that Lilly has shown him that he could have two loves of his life and also that she loves me completely. I just want to know and move on from there." He put his head down and Amy rested her hands on his shoulder. "Babe, we will all be there with you." As they sat Annie and Addie approached them. Amy smiled, "Hey you two, what's up." Addie smiled, "We wanted to let you know how Bella and her mom are doing. Bella is really doing well at school. There have been a couple of small issues but between Maya, Desi, Jeremy and us we have deflected any problems. Annie and I are so proud of those two guys. Just like when those stupid, sorry mom, dumb boys caused an issue when they came out. We really care for them." Amy smiled and agreed. Ty asked, "And how is her mom doing and the living arrangements." Addie smiled again, "Mom and Dad what you did for them is amazing. Bella was really worried that they would be apart along with the fact that her mom had been taking a beating for a long time." She hesitated, "We can't imagine what it has been like for them, living in fear. And what he did to Bella, it makes us sick to our stomach." All of a sudden they both stopped realizing that his was exactly what their dad had gone through. Addie went to him with tears in her eyes, "Daddy we are so sorry talking about this." Annie added, "We know you had the same thing happen to you and it was stupid to elaborate on it." They both hugged him in tears. Ty smiled and held them tightly as Amy put her hand on their backs. He spoke to them directly. "Girls thank you, but I am Ok. Seeing Bella and her mom doing well makes mom and I feel very good. Guys listen to me. I have learned to deal with what happened to me because of your mom and others who helped me. Being able to help them helps me too. And seeing you so caring and involved helps me too." Amy and Ty hugged their daughters reveling in the fact that they were both special kids.

The week before the break was great in many ways. The kids were all over their schoolwork and chores, while fitting in time with Max and Lilly. Amy, Katie and Georgie were tying up loose ends with their clients and setting up for post-holiday needs. The vet team was running smoothly and staying focused on all their needs. The University kids on their clinicals were providing much needed support allowing them to get to all the things they needed to. Ellie and Cass had the program running like a well-oiled machine. Lisa called an impromptu and short Board Zoom meeting since Max was in town. Her intent was to share some ideas for them to think through in preparation for the mid December Board meeting. Jack, Max and Tim got a couple of fishing trips with JT and his buddies. The Borden girls continued to focus on Maya, Bella and her mom, who were doing well. Amy made sure she continued to check on Ty to see how he was doing. Lilly's results were going to be ready the Monday before Thanksgiving and she asked that Jack, Lisa, Amy and Ty join Max and her when they heard them. She wanted them to be there for Max and her, but secretly she wanted to help Ty. Amy and Ty were looking forward to their Anniversary weekend. Although there was a lot going on they needed some time together and were excited. At first they thought about delaying because of Lilly, but she heard and sternly told them not to. Max and her decided to stay a few extra days so she assured him they would have more time together. Lilly and Max even offered to stay at the Miracle Ranch to hang with the kids, which they accepted. Wyatt, Lyndy, Katie and Clay continued to spend a lot of time together. Seeing the four of them so close made Amy and Lou happy.

Amy and Ty were doing well. Everyone was excited about the fall break and Thanksgiving Family Dinner. Annie and Addie asked if Maya, her parents, Bella and her mom could come and Jack and Lisa wholeheartedly agreed. The days before the holiday would be packed with trail rides, group dates for the twins and Lyndy and of course the never-ending fishing for JT. Over the holiday the Bordens also had several activities planned to help those who needed it. Maddie set up a time where they could go help serve food at the local homeless shelter. Lyndy found a place where they could help refurbish homes for the local Habitat for Humanity Association. Amy had finally snapped out of her funk and although she missed her mom every day, realized that she had a husband and children who were her life and dream. She knew that her mom would be pleased with her life. Ty was also feeling much better. The Bella incident rocked him but after his family stood with him and supported him he realized that he was past his early life struggles because he had an amazing wife and kids as well as a strong and loving mother. Along with the family he was still genuinely concerned about his mom's health but knew that whatever the outcome he would not be alone. Privately he was more and more in love with his wife and kids. They brought joy and fulfillment to his life. He sat many time contemplating what his life would had been like if it wasn't for Amy's mom, Jack and the Miracle Girl saving him. Amy and Ty were in bed one night thinking about everything going on around them. They smiled at each other and both realized they were both going to be Ok. They cuddled quietly content with their lives and each other. Sleep came peacefully to them both.