Chapter One Hundred-Twenty
Settling In - Birthday Bash
A/N – Pretty exciting first day of school for sure. With the three new kids I expect this semester will be full of fun and excitement. I hope all the Mallory fans are excited about her new job, but most importantly her new life back home. As I mentioned, I expect a lot of stories for her character that will intertwine with the family. I am still developing the Soraya storylines so more to come on that. But the current matter is our little guy's birthday. I expect it to be a great family event like always. The family will say farewell to Maryanne as Amy and Ty will vow to be there if Haley needs anything. And as Ty promised Justin, he will make sure Rusty stays in line. I fully expect date number two for Lyndy and Wyatt as they deal with the young desires that are rising up between them. And I have not forgotten our two main characters. Over the next few months I will make sure I give Amy and Ty attention with a possible twist or two for them to deal with. A big announcement coming soon that will bring excited anticipation for the entire family. I am also planning to bring some lesser characters into some storylines as well. Too much to expose but it sure is a lot of fun. As always your reviews and ideas are very important to me so please don't hold back. The first half of the year will be something. Enjoy!
Side Note – I often receive reviews that I cannot respond to but I got one that I needed to so here it goes. A reader mentioned that they assumed that Amy and Ty are very wealthy. I have never focused on net worth with anyone in my story, which, except for Lisa had never been addressed on the show. Anyway as I have insinuated, the company is doing very well, so from that perspective everyone involved in the business is doing well also. And the Equine Center and Vet Services at the Miracle Ranch have become 50% of the total net income of the organization. So from that perspective you can assume that Ty and Amy are comfortable and are set up to be that way moving forward. Again a reminder, if you want me to respond more privately please set your account up to allow it. Thanks to all for your reviews as I am well over 300.
As the week continued the first order of business was to say goodbye to Maryanne who was heading home later in the day. She came to breakfast after spending the night with Haley and her roommate. She had to take some time with the school officials to go over her security protocols as this was the first student they ever had that needed them. Her security team set up in a room on the same floor as her and would do their best to have her college experience be as normal as possible. The increase in security was impacting the entire family so unfortunately was necessary. Rusty, Amy, Ty, Jack, Lisa, Lou and Celene all had to get approved as people who could come and see her if needed. Haley was happy, as each of them were important to her. Lyndy and Wyatt also had provisional access along with Katie and Clay so they needed to call ahead of time. The rest could come as needed. In addition her electronic devices were all going to be monitored, except for any communication to her approved list. The other students on the floor were vetted as well. Maryanne was on time and enjoyed her last breakfast with the family, even her security guard, who reluctantly joined them. She was always in awe of the Borden kids and made sure that she spent some alone time with JT. Amy and Ty saw them huddled on the couch as they cleaned up and along with the kids gave them space. Everyone knew that she was concerned and wanted to make sure he could call her or Mr. Trudeau anytime he needed to. After the kids headed out the three of them sat at the table drinking coffee as Maryanne smiled, "He is a strong little boy but I still think he is a little nervous." I told him to be strong but not to think he is alone." Amy smiled, "We know but is it so hard to see him go through this. He is our son and you want to take all the pain and worry away." As a tear came to her eye, Maryanne reached over and held her friends hand. "Amy I know, we parents all want to do that. But do you know what he told me. He knows we are all here for him but he is lucky because he told me he has your mom and grandma too. He mentioned that he talked to them after his last episode and they made him feel a little better." Ty laughed, "Yea, Wyatt told us about it." They smiled as Maryanne stood up and headed out with them. After a hug from Ty she walked arm in arm with Amy. "I am heading out to have an early lunch with Haley and then heading home. If you need anything, anytime you call. And Amy, Justin has already set a time to chat with Soraya. She is amazing. Don't take this the wrong way but I think you and Ty should spend some time with her as well." Amy smiled and gave her one last really big hug. "Thank you and we love you, Justin and the kids a whole bunch."
Amy and Ty spent the rest of the week getting the business settled and back on track. Even though it was after the first of the year client horses were still coming in at steady pace. The enhancements to the ranch, Day Care and the building of the new vet clinic were on schedule. The vet team, the horse training team and a few others had a team zoom meeting to go over everything and to also coordinate the business needs moving forward through the first quarter. At the meeting, Ellie spoke up. "The new shared application we purchased that aligns the scheduling process and many of our key functions, is working very well and has really helped our communication and coordination. As the administrator, don't hesitate to give me any updates regarding who needs access as well as any additional information needed. I hope you see the benefit." Jenn was on the call as well as Lou and she spoke up, "Well from my perspective and I am sure Lou agrees, it really helps us in preparation for lodging and food prep." Katie spoke up, "I hope you don't mind, but I have an idea. Now most of us currently use our phones or laptops. Should we consider purchasing tablets for everyone that is solely used for this application. First it would be more secure and more convenient. I think we are big enough now and feel it would help us be more efficient with our time." Ellie added, "I think that is a great idea. We could communicate through them to, even privately. And Lisa and Lou we could provide more confidential information like financials on the system for the selected few who need access. I have experience working with this and my husband is as you know an IT guy." Lisa immediately spoke up, "Well I think that is a fantastic idea. Anyway we can help you all be more efficient is a benefit. I do believe Jack, Max and I may not need them but Lou can you look into a bulk purchase, Ellie can Nick get us some recommendations?" Ellie smiled, "I will get with him. He may also have access to some good bulk pricing as well once we decide who needs one. Can everybody provide me a list for Jack, Lou and Lisa to review. Jack spoke up, "Well I am not a technical guy but anything that can save you time and allow you more time with your families is good with me." The group laughed as the meeting ended. Since it went so well they decided to start meeting the first week of every month and continue their as needed team meetings.
As Mallory continued to settle, Soraya well was beginning to build up her business. Her first order was to help family and friends. Justin sent her an email and scheduled a zoom appointment as a follow up to their discussion. He apologized as she would need to be vetted by the security team but she was fine with that. She also had follow up with Amy and Ty as they expressed a need to talk to her together and if needed privately. The issues with JT and Ty's mom had been stressful for them and they always enjoyed talking with her about anything. Soraya reached out to Mallory after several private feelings of the need to work with her. The trauma of her life was still inside her and she really want to help her deal with her past and look forward to her future. Finally, at Addie's request and permission from Maya's parents she approached Maya and Bella as well. Although Bella was receiving services already, they had really hit it off and she knew she could help her. Her long-term abuse and current homophobic attacks were troubling. One day she was having lunch with Mallory and Amy. She spoke openly, "So Ames, how is our little guy doing?" Amy frowned, "He is putting on a brave face but I still know he is still struggling inside. The medical and school teams are great but I think he is missing more personal, non-family support." She looked at her friend as Soraya grabbed her hand, "I would be happy to talk to him." Amy smiled as a small tear came to her eyes, "I know he would love that." Mallory broke the solemn moment, "Man Soraya, all this pro bono work, you need to make some real money." They all laughed as she answered her young friend, "Well first of all you guys, Ty and JT are family, Bella is good practice for me and she is like family and although I offered pro bona for Justin he insisted to pay me." Amy laughed, "Mallory always the women who gets straight to the point." They all laughed again. "But Soraya, we were serious, Ty and I talked to Lou and Lisa and we either want to put you on retainer or something more permanent for the company. I know we have several people who would benefit. I know you briefly met Will and Bethany and I know she would really enjoy talking to you as she has had some struggles. There are several others I have in mind but if we can come to agreement we will communicate it as a benefit for family as well as the staff and their families." They all smiled and continued their lunch just talking. It reminded Amy of the hundreds of time they talked when they were younger. After a few minutes, Soraya spoke up, "So Amy let's talk about JT's birthday, I have heard from him it is quite the thing." Amy laughed, "Well it is and don't forget it is this Saturday." Mallory laughed, "How can I forget, every time he sees me he reminds me and Trent says it is all the talks about." Amy looked down seeming to get emotional, "He is really excited. Ty and the kids really want to make this one special for him." Soraya and Mallory responded in unison, "It will be."
Preparation was well underway for JT's 4th Birthday. He opted to just have one big one with family and friends. Needless to say it was going to be a big group. Plans were made to have the smaller tent set up with access the house for the food and dancing later. He wanted finger foods so people could just graze and mingle. He knew he would get gifts but convinced his mom and dad to try to limit them. He wanted some things for sure but he mostly just wanted to be with all of the people who meant something to him and had been supporting him lately. He even asked it the medical and school team could be invited, so they decided on an open house thing where people could come and go. Presents and cake would be at the end of the party. JT was all in and getting excited. All the kids were as well as the girls along with Wyatt all pitched in to make sure the party would be special. JT didn't know but Max and Lilly were going to fly in just for it and Wyatt along and Lyndy would be picking them up Friday night. They were going to stay at Heartland and then come over with Jack and Lisa for the big surprise. The Trudeaus also had a special video call scheduled for him and when Haley arrived she would set that up with him. The family knew he had been bummed out a lot lately so they were going out of their way to make sure everything went well. But the thing that made Amy and Ty feel the best that was that Wyatt had offered him to sleep in his room for a while. He felt that would help him sleep better and be more rested. JT was more than happy to do it and after night one he could already feel the difference. After dinner one night, Amy and Ty were with them in the lounge as everyone else was getting ready for bed. Amy smiled at him, "Wyatt we can't thank you enough for letting JT stay in your room. We know it is not permanent but I think it is really helping." She began to choke up a little, "He loves you so much." Amy began to sob lightly as Ty held onto her." Lyndy grabbed his hand in appreciation as well as he answered her, "We are best buddies and I would do anything for him. I just thought it would help him get a little more confidence, which I think he is lacking right now. He is such a tough little dude on the surface but is a marshmallow like his dad on the inside." Lyndy laughed poking him in the ribs, "He is a marshmallow like you silly." Amy went to hug them both and Ty followed. There was no need for words as their hugs said everything they needed to.
Saturday morning arrived and it was actually JT's birthday. The pickup the night before was done, the tent, tables and chairs were ready to go, with heaters in place. Clay and Wyatt had music set up and the gift table and what was called JT's throne were ready to go. Amy and the girls got up early to get his lavish breakfast prepared as Ty did final checks on everything. They had decided to have Jack and Lisa come over for breakfast with Max, Lilly, Lou and Scott to surprise him. Tim and Casey were invited as well but had a commitment but would be at the party. A sleepy Wyatt and JT came down to a round of Happy Birthdays, hugs and kisses. JT had a smile as big as anyone had ever seen as he took his seat next to his best bud. Thye girls brought out the food and drinks as Ty took care of coffee for whoever wanted it. JT looked at the table and noticed 6 extra chairs and before he could ask the front door opened and a bellowing Max yelled out, "Where is the birthday boy?" JT literally jumped out of his chair running to Jack, Lisa and Max. After hugs he looked at the teary eyes of Lilly and went to hold her tightly. The entire table looked on so happy to see their bond. He pulled her by the hand and made sure she sat next to him with Amy on his other side. Jack smiled and spoke up, "So are we going to eat or what?" The table erupted and began passing the food around. After Wyatt and Ty got coffee for the new arrivals, he spoke up, "Now eat up everyone, this afternoon will just be finger foods, per the birthday boys request. Max laughed, "Wow JT kind of fancy." He just smiled still overwhelmed with the surprise guest at his birthday breakfast. The conversation was active but it was hard not to notice the bond between JT and his grandma. But Ty leaned into Amy noticing something else, "Do you think my mom looks a little tired, I don't know something seems off." She smiled and clutched his hand, "It's probably just jet lag. I am sure she is Ok." After breakfast the men offered to handle clean up and JT with all the women, headed out to the barn to take care of the horses. JT never left Lilly's side holding her hand and when she rested sitting with her. Lyndy was the first to notice his concerned look as he spoke with her. She grabbed her mom, "Hey, look how JT is looking at Grandma, he seems worried about something." Amy chuckled worriedly, "Your dad said the same thing. When you have him alone can you ask him but be discreet about it." She smiled as Amy kissed her cheek, "You are something Lyndy."
The visitors headed back to Heartland to get ready for the party and rest a bit. The Bordens were in party prep mode. About every 15 minutes, JT would ask, "How much longer?" Everyone would tell him to be patient and he continued to be in his hyper mood as his excitement continued to grow. Ty and Amy were rechecking the inside of the house as the kids all came back for the yard. As Amy looked out the window she gasped grabbing Ty's arm, "Ty something is wrong with JT." As they met them they found JT in Wyatt's arms with his head buried in his shoulder. Lyndy was rubbing his back and the other girls had looks of concern. Maddie spoke up, "Mom, he had another episode." Addie jumped in, "But we don't think it was too bad, he seems Ok now." Ty took him in his arms as Amy and him took JT to his room. The rest of the kids gave them space and quietly went back in to party prep mode. As Ty laid him down he looked up at his parents and smiled weakly, "Well I guess it is better now than during the party." Amy smiled tearily, "That is one way to look at it honey, tell us how you feel." He sat up, "Well I felt this one coming earlier than normal and I was ready for it. When I felt it, I was with Annie and asked her to take me inside. I don't think I ever got fuzzy and still knew what was going on." Ty chuckled nervously, "Well that is good. So how are you now?" "I feel good, can I go back out to help." Amy smiled, "Well lets you and me lay here for a few minutes and then we will head out, but you need to let us do everything. It is your birthday." Ty kissed both of their foreheads and went out to a worried group of siblings. Annie said, "Dad, this was different, he told me it was happening." Maddie added, "And he never seemed confused, just groggy, kind of." The other kids shook their heads in agreement. Ty smiled and told them to keep getting ready but pulled Wyatt and Lyndy aside. "Hey guys, I know you decided not to have any friends come so can I ask a favor." Before he should ask, Lyndy smiled and grabbed his hand. "Don't worry dad, we will keep a lookout and will be discreet." He smiled hugging her tightly. A few minutes later Amy and JT came out and he ran off to be with his sisters with a warning to take it easy. Amy leaned into Ty and before she said anything he told her about Lyndy and Wyatt's offer. She smiled weakly into his chest. "I know it is a party but let's makes sure we talk to the doctor sometime today. I just want to get his opinion." He smiled, 'Definitely."
It was time and JT was on the balls of his feet as people arrived. As soon as they were all there he got with all his friends, Trent, Ben O'Dell, The Stilman boys, Billy Masters and a few friends from school. The pack moved around the room together saying hello to everyone. Billy laughed, "JT you invited our teachers?" JT smiled, "Of course, I am trying to suck up to them." The boys all giggled as they continued to meander. Their next stop was the older crew. JT hugged each of them going to Lilly last for a little longer hug. The rest of the boys joked with Jack, Max and Tim about their next fishing trip. Ben joked with Jack, "Is Trent ready to join the club?" Jack laughed as all the boys looked at him, "You bet, and I think he may even be able to out fish some of you, especially Grandpa Tim." The boys burst out in laughter and tickled Tim and Jack. Maddie was huddled with Gwen, Sylvia and Caroline chatting quietly. Lyndy walked over, "What are you guys talking about, I am concerned." Caroline smiled. "Nothing, well maybe some boys at school. We want to find a boy like Wyatt, he is dreamy." Lyndy stepped away blushing. Annie and Addie were joined by Camilla, Desi, Jeremy, Maya, Bella and surprisingly Troy. When he walked up with the two boys her eyes lit up and they all greeted each other. Bella whispered in Camilla's ear, "Your boyfriend is here!" Amy, Soraya, Ty and Dillon were sitting with some of the other parents. Cass looked over to Soraya, "Is that Camilla's boyfriend, man you have been here less than a month." Mallory added, "And he is kind of cute." Dillon's eyes focused on the young man hugging his daughter. Ty grabbed his arm, "Get used to it Dilon, it will only get worse. He will start driving and they will go on alone dates." The rest of them laughed as a normally quiet Bethany joked, "Well their kids should be cute?" As the rest of the women shook their heads in agreement, Dillon turned a few shades of green. Caleb looked over to him, "Dude let me get you another beer, I think you need one."
Ty and Amy quietly watched JT move through the crowd and after a few minutes made their rounds as well. The thanked the teaching team for coming and they mentioned they wouldn't miss it. The went to sit with Dr. Flanders and two other members of the medical team and talked through the morning episode. Dr. Flanders assured them it was normal and in fact was pleased that he was more aware. He smiled, "Ty and Amy, that is a good sign. Let's give it a few weeks and we will have you bring him in. I will call the school team as well so we can all be aware of what is going on." Amy and Ty smiled, thanking them for coming and for everything they were doing for their son. Another team member spoke up, "We wouldn't miss it for the world, we love you son, he is amazing." Dr Flanders added before they left. "I know we talked about this but we want to let you know, that with your permission, we are documenting his case with hopes to produce a medical paper on it. It is a unique issue and feel that sharing it will help others down the road." Amy and Ty smiled and as they left Amy hugged each of them as Ty shook their hands. JT saw the interaction with the medical team and his parents from across the tent. He ran over and jumped in his mom's arms hugging her tightly, "I love you mommy." Amy was a little startled, "Well I love you too baby, what is this about." He tucked his head into her shoulder not having to say anything. Ty stroked his back and whispered, "Well we love you too." The medical team looked on smiling as Dr. Flanders sloke to them, "He is going to be fine. A love like that will do wonders for his recovery." They all smiled but in the other corner they noticed some scurrying about. Maddie came running to her parents. Dad, Grandma Lilly isn't feeling well." He looked over and saw a distressed Lilly in Max's arms with Lisa, Lou and Casey talking to her. He immediately grabbed Maddie's hand and headed over to her. The other kids went that way as well. Amy let JT down and he bolted that way. Dr. Flanders asked Amy, "Can we help?" On the way over she explained Lilly's condition as the entire team went with her. When JT arrived his face was flushed, breathing frantically, "Grandma, are you Ok?" Jack picked him up. "Buddy she just feels a little off let's give her space." Before he stepped back Lilly reached out to him, "Don't worry my love, I am Ok."
Dr. Flanders and JT's nurse stepped in and she spoke up, "Hi I am JT's nurse, can we get her inside to one of the bedrooms?" Max smiled and with Jack helped her up and into the house. Since Maddie's room was closest she ran ahead and made sure it was tidy and opened the door for them. Max gently laid her down and Amy kept the kids out. Only Max, Lisa, Casey and Ty went in with the Nurse and doctor. They got Lilly comfortable and she was embarrassed, "I am Ok, I just got a little dizzy. I don't want you to fuss and ruin JT's party." Ty spoke up, "Mom, he is fine and is right outside." Amy tapped on the door with some towels, damp washrags and water. Lilly smiled at her and spoke up, "Amy please make sure JT is Ok." She smiled and stepped back out to her waiting children noticing that a very upset JT was in Wyatt's strong arms. The girls were all focused on him. Amy spoke up, "Girls, can you and Wyatt go back to the party and make sure everyone is taken care of and that all is well here. JT and I will hang here." They smiled, hugged their little brother and headed back to the tent. Meanwhile in the room the nurse took her vitals with the feel of her skilled health care hands. The Doctor listened to her heart and asked he some questions. Lilly seem more alert and was gaining some awareness back. She spoke softly, "Well I had a pretty difficult treatment right before we left to come up for JT's birthday. There was no way I was going to miss it." Looking at Max she smiled, "I am so sorry honey, I should have told you that I was not feeling well at all on the flight, actually since I got here. The doctors kind of didn't want me to come but I insisted." Max looked at her with complete love, "Well you should have told me but I understand." Ty added, "Mom, of all people JT would have understood." She looked at both of them, "No I needed to see him and tell him I am here for him. He needs me and I will not let him down, I have done enough of that in my life." They all agreed as the nurse spoke up, "Well everything seems fine with your vitals and you look much better." Dr. Flanders added, "I agree, let's get you some juice and something to eat. After that we will take another look but I think you will be fine. I agree I just think you overdid it a little. But I understand, we all want to be there for JT." They left with Lisa and Casey and after a kiss, Ty headed out to. After a few minutes, Lisa and Casey came back with some juice and sweet treats. After 15 or so minutes, Lilly emerged walking on her own and headed back to the tent with Max by her side. The kids allowed her to get settled and went over to give her a kiss and hug. JT hung out a little with her until she shushed him away to rejoin his party.
The party was in full swing when the birthday boy returned. Guest were enjoying finger foods mostly selected by him that Marnie provided. Fried cheese, chicken wings, pigs in a blanket, BBQ ribs and a host of salads, veggies, cheeses and fruit were enjoyed by all. Of course Mac 'N' Cheese was on the menu and to many people's disgust Ty added ketchup from his own a bottle with his name on it. Georgie, Katie and Lou brought an assortment of pies, including Saskatoon Berry along with ice cream. The special birthday cake would come out after presents were opened. JT and the rest of the kids were doing a great job socializing with the guest and their friend groups. Lyndy and Amy along with many of the women were hovering over Katie as a small baby bump was beginning to show. Lou sat next to her smiling broadly so excited about her first grandbaby. Katie leaned and whispered to Lyndy, "If one more person rubs my belly I am going to smack them." She laughed as Caly came over and did exactly that. Katie cooed, "Well maybe not him." The girls giggled as Clay and Wyatt stood there clueless. The elder group sat overlooking things as usual so proud of what was in front of them. Casey and Lisa has taken their place right next to Lilly as she continued to look better. The nurse from JT's team continually looked over to her smiling and letting her know she was close by. JT also made it a point to come by every once in a while to visit and give her a kiss on the cheek. Amy and Ty had separated from their group and after a walk around sat alone together. He sat on a porch chair and Amy sat on his lap. She snuggled into his shoulder content and so happy at what she saw in front of her. Ty leaned into her, "Kind of special isn't it? Who would have ever thought that the guy that revved his truck and the girl who almost trampled that guy would be where we are today." She smiled and cuddled closer feeling his warmth and strength. The giggled and cuddled more until Maddie and Caroline swooped in, "Mom and Dad, really! See Linney I told you they always do that, it can be gross." Caroline smiled and whispered, "I think it is awesome, I love when my parents do stuff like that." Amy laughed and stuck her tongue out at her youngest daughter. Maddie huffed, "Real mature mom."
The pies were brought out and along with ice cream were served. It seemed the open house had kind of turned into an everybody stays party. The family knew how to throw a birthday bash and this was no exception. The kids along with Katie and Clay made sure that anyone who wanted it got desert. As that happened, Clay cranked up the music so the kids could dance and play around. Some of the older group and men headed inside. Amy and Ty, Cass, Bethany. Soraya, Mallory, Dillon and Jenn hung with their kids laughing and dancing. When a slower dance came the couples broke out and Dillon couldn't help but notice that Camilla was dancing with Troy. Amy and Ty moved over to them as Ty ribbed him, "What's wrong dad, having a problem." Amy smacked him, "Ty stop it, I think they are cute together. Don't you think so Soraya?" Soraya smiled and teared up a little, "I am just relieved to see her so happy. The move for her was very difficult and if a boy helps that is good. And Dillon he seems like a nice boy, I mean he stood up next to her with those two rude boys." Dillon smiled and relaxed a little, "Yea I guess, but I still need to have a talk with him man to man." Carrying on the conversation Ty added, "Just let me know if you need any pointers." Again Amy smacked him and huffed, "Borden, you can be an idiot sometimes." He tickled her as she whispered hugging him, "But I love my idiot." From across the dance floor Maddie give them another look joined now by Addie so they chilled a bit. The dancing continued as the entire crowd was having a lot of fun. Lyndy noticed that JT walked over again to Lilly, sat on her lap and whispered in her ear. Lilly's face went flush as the two of them walked out to the tent dance floor as a slow song started. They began to dance and luckily Lilly was pretty short so he only had to reach up a little. The entire group got up as couples and joined them as Max danced with Mallory. The mood was a little somber as Amy, Lou, Katie, and Georgie were teary eyes watching this amazing boy. After the song ended her walked her back and went back to his friends. Countless people came over to Amy and Ty telling them how amazing that was including the school and hospital group. Amy could barely keep herself together as she sat close to Ty. As the music died down, Maddie took over and announced, "It's time for presents and then the birthday cake!"
JT sat in front as the girls kept feeding him presents As he received each one he thanked the giver and Maddie wrote everything down. Amy smiled and whispered to Ty, "He really looks happy and do you see Lyndy and Wyatt?" They are totally focused on his well-being, I couldn't be prouder of them." Lyndy saw her mom's expression and walked over, "Mom he is really doing good and told Wyatt he feels great. That dance with Grandma was something I will never forget. I love him so much mom and dad." She leaned into her mom as the teared up together. After the presents were done a birthday cake with a boy fishing on top was brought out. The happy birthday song was led by Jack, Amy and Lyndy as everyone joined in. After the cake the crowd began to thin and the kids led by JT thanked everyone for coming. Jack laughed, "Amy and Ty, I think all you kids will sleep well tonight." They looked over and saw JT and Lilly hugging. They overheard her telling him that her and Max would drop by in the morning before the headed to the airport. He smiled as they left. After everyone was gone a few family stayed to help clean up. There was no need for dinner as they had plenty of left overs to munch on if needed. After Lou, Georgie and Katie left the family settled in the living room talking about the party and how fun it was. Each of them shared their favorite moment and when it was JT's turn he spoke in a somber tone. "I loved dancing with Grandma Lilly, even though I am kind of short. She needs me right now and I guess I need her." Annie asked, What did you guys talk about?" He smiled, "Stuff just for us. But we did say that if either of us needed to talk that we could make a call anytime. Dad, she is a very strong person and she reminds me of you a lot. I know there have been some problems in the past but she loves you so much and for that matter all of us. I promised her I would always be there for her." The family could not even talk as they listened to this amazing little man. Finally Ty spoke up, "Well we are happy you are there for her and we will always be here for you." As a family they went out to the barn to settle the horses in for the night. They didn't do it together a lot and it was fun. They came back to the house and went to bed as everyone was exhausted. Ty and Amy did quick rounds and settled in each other's arms. Amy spoke first, "Are you Ok, I know what happened to your mom was a little scary." He smiled and calmly answered her. "Yea it was but the difference is now she has people there for her, so many times in the past she was all alone." They were quiet a little while longer and he rolled on his side to face her, "And I am so happy that I have you." He kissed her passionately and when he stopped she leaned into his chest. Their sleep came quickly as they lay in each other's arms.