Chapter One Hundred Fifty-Three

Odds And The End

A/N – In their true form the Borden's sure know how to throw a party. One of the pillars of my story has been family and a love that has been nurtured over the years. Parties, dinners and just plain getting together are always special to the family and a major part of their lives. As I said the last two chapters had a lot of Borden time, but as we move into the fall, we will see some additional storylines I need to close out. A makeup clinic, visitors, a trial, rebuilding a truck (thanks to the loyal reader who reminded me) and some folks leaving will be covered this chapter. After this I plan to have a few surprise trips and visitors that will help Amy and Ty deal with the past. I can assure you their love will only grow and the support of their family and friends will be there as always. As the story moves forward we will see several fall activities and accomplishments, add a little romance and set up a happy holiday season. I know I am repetitive but your comments are always welcomed and appreciated. In addition as I have mentioned, a sequel is under development, focusing on our younger couple. Ideas for some storylines and content are always welcomed. Mild Mature Content Enjoy!

At a Borden level, routine and normalcy had returned after the birthday week for the Borden girls and Weber twins. School was challenging for all the kids but their evening study sessions really helped them all deal with the challenges of the new year. Annie, Addie and Maddie were in important years of school and JT was now a full-fledged kindergarten student. As they met around the table every night, the sharing of insight and support was in a way the most fulfilling part of the day for them. It occurred right after dinner as Amy and Ty cleaned up and went to the porch for some tea and time to chat. They always made it a point to sit outside the dining room to eavesdrop on the conversations. Many nights they just listened and were amazed at the conversations and love between their kids. And it wasn't always school stuff but just general conversation. The heard Addie speak, "Hey Lynny, now that I have my tools, I promise I will get that truck ready for you. One of the mechanics that I hang around with is helping me with the tricky stuff and another offered to paint it emerald green for you. I hope you are patient." Amy and Ty noticed no response figuring that the two sisters were hugging. Then Maddie burst out, "So Lyndy, how are the driving lesson's going?" There was hesitation, "Well I have only been out a few times, I have been kind of busy. But Wyatt promised to take me out and dad has as well. I will be ready." JT laughed, "I can't wait to see Lyndy driving, it will be so cool." The kids all laughed and continued on studying. Amy and Ty held each other close without the need for words. After a few minutes, Amy's phone buzzed with an email. As she read the message she tensed up, immediately causing concern with Ty. As she finished the phone rang and Amy picked it up. Again her voice was tense as she talked on the cell to someone she know. She stepped away and after the hung up she came and plopped down next to Ty upset. Ty decided to wait a few seconds and then asked, "Honey, talk to me, what was that about?" She took a deep breath and spoke quietly, "The email was from the lawyer to the police, Sarah Plummer and me. Chase Power's trial is a week from next Monday and we are both needed to testify. He feels the trial will only be one day, maybe two. Then Sarah called and asked if they could come the Friday before and spend the weekend. She said we could talk and her kids could see the place and hang with our group. I don't know Ty, I know it was a long time ago, but I know that he makes you angry. And to be honest he makes me feel angry as well. He and Blair took time away from being us and I know that now we are great, but it still bothers me." Ty took her into his arms. "Amy, there is nothing in the world that can change what we have and what we have worked hard to accomplish. Listen to them inside and look over this ranch. Our dream is right in front of us and our legacy is all around. I know the trial will be difficult but we will get through it together." They embraced as they felt someone approaching, it was Lyndy. "Hey, I was volunteered to come out and see if everything is alright, we kind of heard you muffled conversation." Amy pointed to have her sit next to her. "Everything is fine honey, I just got an email about that Chase Power's trial. And we were going to tell you all later but the Plummers are coming next weekend, Sarah and Vince will stay for the trial but the kids will be here all weekend so I hope you guys can entertain them." Lyndy smiled and leaned into her mom, "We got it mom and we will be here for your guys too."

The rest of the week was fun except for the fact that Max and Lilly were heading back to Colorado at the end of it. There were several dinners with them to make sure they got a lot of time with them. Amy and Ty even pulled JT out of school one day so he could go for her last checkup in Calgary and spend the day with them along with Jack and Lisa. As Friday afternoon approached the family all met at the Miracle Ranch after school and to take them to the airport. Lilly's checkup had been good so the emotions were strong but happy for the most part. JT was quiet but spent the entire time clinging to his grandma but was smiling when she left. It seems they already had a couple of video calls planned for the weekend and a trip for him to come visit. The Plummers arrived while they were there, so Jenn met them and got them set up at one of the family cabins at the Dude Ranch. Just as they got back to the Miracle Ranch, the Bordens arrived back from the airport. Amy and the kids hopped out of the truck and greeted them as Sarah, Vince and their kids hopped out. Ty and Wyatt helped get Skyler out. Amy had asked that they bring him so she could see how he was doing. Lyndy and the girls took the two middle kids to the barn as well and JT said hello to Isla and decided to take her to the playground at the Day Care Center. Trent and Shawna were meeting them there. Another reason they were there was that the makeup clinic was the next day and Sarah insisted that Vince and the kids help and go for support. Amy, Lyndy, Maddie and Annie would be demonstrating their skills with the highlight being Amy doing both a liberty and reigning session for the crowd. The arena was going to be filled since there was only one show to make up for the two that were scheduled the weekend of the Chase incident. Sarah, Vince, Ty and Amy took a walk around the ranch and they were really impressed. Sarah smiled, "Amy this place is amazing and Ty, the clinic and other facilities are top notch." Ty smiled, "And actually we are expanding down that road with some land we just purchased. We are adding another barn and examination room along with some additional round pens. We always have a lot going on for sure." Vince laughed, "I heard you guys also have a fairly large cattle operation, in fact your Heartland Beef is in all the local markets." Amy smiled, "Well that is my dad and grandpa thing. In fact my grandpa insist that you come to Heartland for a BBQ tonight. I know he would love to talk to you about it." They continued to talk as they walked around and they really got along well. They came across Lyndy and Wyatt working with Skyler and Chuck as Lyndy spoke up, "Mom, he is doing great and Chuck and him are really close. They dropped by to see Maddie and Addie with their other two daughters, Brittany and Bridgett, and then checked on the little folks, who were playing. Bethany came over and introduced herself and assured them that she would make sure they would get back to house before dinner. They headed to the office to talk about Monday, although both of them were hesitant. As they sat down Ty started the conversation. "Well the lawyer kind of gave us an idea of some questions that we may be asked. I don't know about you but I want to get through tomorrow and then we can take a ride into town and have lunch at Maggie's and go over them. I am sure Lyndy, Wyatt and Chuck can keep an eye on the kids and Jenn Stillman said she will take care of JT and Isla for a play date with their kids and a few others. It seemed she is pretty personable and their house is a great place for the kids to hang out." They all agreed and waited for the kids but Sarah asked, "Will we have trouble getting a table, I hear Magiges is the hot spot in town." Ty laughed, "Well Amy's sister owns it and it is a part of our company so we are good." As they all laughed, Amy leaned into Ty and whispered, "Thanks for going over everything, Sarah and I are pretty nervous about it."

The BBQ at Heartland was a lot of fun and as expected, Jack, Tim, Vince, Caleb and Clay were huddled together talking cattle. Amy and Lou laughed as they heard Tim trying to convince Vince that they should join forces so they can expand their business into more markets. Vince was calm and they could tell that he understood that Tim sometimes talked a little too much. They told each other to make sure they followed up with their grandpa later. Sarah was overwhelmed with how nice the entire family was to them. She couldn't get enough of holding little Sienna and had a long conversation with Georgie about her pregnancy and her Olympic success. After the food was served, Sarah and Vince joined Amy, Ty, Georgie and Steven. Sarah had to ask, "So all of you work together? How is that?" Steven laughed, "Well it is great, Ty was an great influence and made it easy for me to decide to become a vet. And watching Georgie and Amy is an unbelievable high. How they relate to horses is really magical and to see them both work is pretty inspiring. I am sure Ty agrees but I think it helps us on the vet side to really focus on helping the horses we care for even more." Georgie leaned into him and laughed, "You know what Weber, if I wasn't the size of a beached whale I might jump your bones right now." They all laughed as Amy spoke up, "One thing you will learn about Georgie, there are not to many filters." As everyone dispersed, Amy reminded them about the time of the clinic tomorrow. Sarah leaned over and asked, "Are they all coming?" Amy smiled, "Well that is the way it is for everything we do, show jumping, dance competitions, whatever, the family is always there. It's kind of our thing." She sat quietly tearing up, "That is amazing Amy, you all have so much love in your family." Ty broke the ice, "And if we didn't Maddie would have a fit and make our lives miserable. That is her thing." They all laughed and headed out. Amy reminded them what time breakfast was and Sarah offered to go with the early group to get ready. As the Borden's got home, the kids immediately went to get ready for bed. Amy was going through her routine as Ty sat in bed reading a magazine and glancing at her. She looked up and smiled at him and finished heading to bed. He laid the magazine down as she cuddled next to him closely. He sighed, "The Plummers are really nice and I think they are impressed with the whole operation and the family. I was amazed how long the cattle guys talked and how Vince handled your dad." She smiled into his chest, "Yea, Sarah was overwhelmed with the love that we have for each other. She said Vince's family is great, but her family is kind of distant. She joked about how Chase's parents are decent people and see Chuck several times a year." Ty smiled, "Wow that is hard to believe. So, she thinks there is a lot of love in our family. Is there any left for me?" Amy smiled warmly and kissed him deeply while reaching down to show him how much love she had for him. He got the message and moved his hand where he knew she would enjoy. Their moans told them that they were both doing the right thing. Their kisses and foreplay increased as their night was just beginning. They loved each other for a while until the fell into a blissful sleep. Ty could tell that Monday was weighing on her mind so he made sure he did everything he could to distract her, several times. Tomorrow was going to be a busy day so as they slept their minds were on the clinic, the trial and the love they had for each other.

Morning came quickly and the family, including Amy and Ty were up and on the go early. Breakfast was enjoyed by both families and as they finished, Lyndy, Wyatt, Chuck and the twins went to get everything ready for the early group. Blaze, Sundance, Theo and Mystic were all loaded up. They were also bringing Triumph as Amy planned to dance with both of they when she did her liberty exhibition. Ty drove the big truck and 6 horse trailer as they headed out. Wyatt drove the rest of the group in his truck. Vince would be bringing Sarah, his kids and JT a little bit later. In just 24 hours JT and Isla had become good friends, which everyone thought was cute. When they arrived, Amy and Lyndy met the promoter and arena director for a quick walk around. Ty, Wyatt and the girls got the horses settled and then the entire group met and talked about the day. Amy, Lyndy, Annie and Maddie talked about the program and each of their roles. Amy and Lyndy would do some work with their horses, describing the join up and other processes they use to gentle a horse and then try to determine the reason for an issue. Amy coaxed Ty to join them as well and talk about the vet side of the process. Annie would work with Lyndy and Maddie with her mom for support. They would do some quick show jumping runs and describe how they get their horses to respond to their direction when hurdling over the gates. In between Amy and Lyndy would do some reining and then for the finale, Amy would do her liberty demonstration, emphasizing the link to gaining the trust of your horse. The clinic started just after lunch and they would be home for dinner. Everything was settled so they all sat down after Vince, Sarah and the kids arrived for a light lunch. That night they would have dinner at home with the Plummers only so Amy and Sarah could start prepping for the trial. Right on time the rest of the family arrived and got seated in their usual section that had been reserved for them. Amy looked up and saw her family and smiled, noticing that JT and Isla were laughing and joking around. His eyes met hers and he smiled brightly, waving at her. The lights dimmed as the packed house began to settle. Amy, Lyndy, Annie and Maddie got on their horses and positioned themselves in the middle of the dark ring. Some music started and the emcee welcomed everyone to the clinic and as the lights rose the four Borden woman sat tall in the saddle. Almost on cue the four horses reared much to the delight of the packed house. The emcee laughed, "Well that is quite a welcome isn't it." Everyone clapped loudly. He then went through and introduced the four of them ending with Amy, whom he referenced as the Miracle Girl. He mentioned the company and the ranch and finally the Equine Center. They were all beaming as he spoke and Amy quickly glanced at Ty, who was on the sideline with Wyatt and Addie for support. Amy spoke up, "Well our family and company want to thank you all for coming today. We realized that the last time you were here things didn't quite go as you may have expected. So today, my girls and I are here to give you a glimpse of what we do. Along with my husband, Dr. Ty Borden and my other children, JT, Addie and Wyatt we thank you all for coming." As the crowd erupted at the end a question came from the lower level from a young girl, "Did you say that you have six kids?" Amy blushed, "Yes, Ty and I are very lucky and have six amazing children and an amazing family that we love very much." Again the crowd applauded." Amy spoke up, "So let's get started." For the next few hours they went through and showed the wide-eyed audience what they did. They allowed for some questions and interestingly Ty received a lot of them. As Jack watched he smiled with a tear in his eye. Lisa leaned in and whispered, "Are you Ok there cowboy." He smiled, "I see Marion out there, Amy is simply amazing." She smiled, "Well she has a pretty good grandpa too." The clinic was a huge success and as the family loaded up Amy came over to Ty and hugged him. It had been a good day but now they had to focus on Monday.

Since they were tired they decided to hold off on talking about the trial until Sunday. At dinner Sarah and her family marveled at the amazing work that Amy and her girls did at the clinic and Isla said that when Amy danced with the horses it was magical, "Mrs. Borden, that was the most beautiful thing I have ever seen. I never knew that horses could dance." Amy laughed, "Well honey, horses are pretty amazing and can do a lot of things. They are really smart." She smiled broadly as JT spoke up, "And my mom is amazing, she can do anything with a horse and best of all she can fix them." Everyone laughed at the proud little boy. Vince also added, "Annie and Maddie your show jumping was really cool. How long have you been doing that? JT again boastfully spoke up again. All of my sisters are awesome jumpers and have won a lot of competitions. And my mom was also amazing, she has a lot of ribbons stored in the "Journal Library." Chuck asked, "What is a Journal Library?" Both families listened as Lyndy told the story of all of the journals that had been written over the generations of horse healers in their family, "The journals were written by my mom, grandma Marion, great grandma Lyndy and great, great grandpa, Thomas Payne. He kind of started this whole thing a long time ago. A few years ago we decided to store them in a temperature controlled room at Heartland for safekeeping. It is open for anyone to see with a family member escort and many of them have been published and are online. Even my cousins, Georgie and Katie have some there along with me. It is our legacy and a way for us to help others. Several universities and Equine Centers across the country have come to view them. It's kind of cool." She blushed as she may have gone a little overboard but she was proud of what they had accomplished. The Plummers were speechless when she finished finally Chuck spoke up, "Could I see it, I would love to see if there is anything else I could do for Skyler, Lyndy and Wyatt can you take me there?" Wyatt spoke up, "Of course but you would probably be good with just Lyndy, I really don't know a lot about it." Lyndy agreed and they decided to do it after breakfast in the morning. The twins, Maddie, JT and the other Plummer kids were going on a ride and Wyatt offered to go with them to keep an eye on the younger kids.. Later, Sarah took Amy aside and whispered, "Wow, is Wyatt really Ok with Lyndy and Chuck going to the room together. He seems so trusting and confident. I am not going to lie, but Lyndy is beautiful and I have caught Chuck catching glances at her on occasion. Vince told him to cool it as it is obvious those two are really close." Amy smiled, "Ty has seen it too and in fact he talked to Wyatt about it. Those two are in love and respect and care for each other. And Lyndy is pretty tough and Wyatt trust her completely. There have been other boys and girls that have tried to break them up but there is no way, they have a very special relationship." Sarah smiled, "Yea it is pretty easy to see the way they are. The look in his eyes when he is with her is really amazing." The Plummers left for the Dude Ranch early as tomorrow would be really fun for the kids but not so much for the parents. Amy and Ty were in bed talking about the day and what was in store for tomorrow. She laughed, "Sarah and Vince are a little worried about Chuck around Lyndy. Seems he just broke up with his girlfriend and has taken a liking to Lyndy." Ty laughed, "I know, although he is stoic, Wyatt is slightly worried but I told him not to. The Borden women are in it for life and when they love, they do it 110%." She giggled and kissed him on the neck, "So is this what 110% feels like?" He looked int her eyes and kissed her with a passion only meant for them. She took a breath, "Now that was 125%." They embraced and had a fun night of loving and cuddling. It was a good distraction for the both of them since the next few days would be challenging.

Both families met at Maggie's for their world famous breakfast that Lou had the staff prepare especially for them and when they were done headed back to the Ranch. Vince's parents were showing up at 5:00 to get the kids and after dinner take would them home for school the next day. The kids wanted to make sure they got all the fun in for the day. As soon as they got back, Lyndy and Chuck saddled up their horses and headed to Heartland. Lyndy made sure she gave Wyatt an extra special kiss before she left making sure there was no doubts in his mind. He smiled and hugged her a little longer than usual and whispered in her ear, "I love you." Maddie grabbed his arm and spoke loudly, "Come on lover boy we have horses to tack up." Annie, Addie and Maddie help the other kids get some horse ready for their ride. Isla was going to ride with Annie as she had never ridden and the others were on their own. They headed out about an hour later for their usual spot by the river. It was a little chilly to swim but they had a nice lunch packed with drinks and a few games they could play. After they settled, Wyatt watched as the kids were really having a great time. He felt a little lonely when he caught sight of two riders approaching on horses. He immediately smiled as one of them was Lyndy on Sundance. He always had a warm feeling when he saw her on her horse. They pulled up and Wyatt grabbed Skyler and Sundance's harness. "Wow, look at you two, best friends again." Chuck smiled, "I know and I have you guys and your mom to thank. That library is amazing. We found several things I can use moving forward to we copied them for me to take home." Wyatt smiled at Lyndy, "Yea those Borden girls are pretty amazing." They joined the kids and had a great lunch and had fun playing games. Isla fell asleep in Lyndy's arms as she was worn out from all the fun. Wyatt snuggled with them as Chuck joined the kids in a game. It was a great time for all of them. Back at the ranch, there was a little more tension. The four of them poured over the notes from the lawyers and wrote down some prepared answers that they rehearsed. Several times they called Max for advice as he was up to speed on the trial. Amy and Sarah were visibly nervous so Vince and Ty helped them through it. They took a walk to stretch their legs as Vince laughed, "I caught the overzealous kiss from your daughter this morning for Wyatt. I expect there was a message there for sure." They all laughed as Ty added, "Yea, he wouldn't admit it but Wyatt was a little nervous. Seems that several other boys had shown an interest in our daughter lately, but I have to say she is committed to him. You know these Borden women know when they have a good thing." Amy rolled her eyes and poked him in the ribs, "Whatever." The break was nice but when they got back the had lunch and kept preparing. As they were reviewing the notes, Sarah sawn something, "They are recommending that Chuck is at the trial, honey what do you think?" Vince sat for a second and spoke up, "I agree, he is a pretty mature kid and I am not surprised that he hasn't asked." Amy chuckled, "Well he did mention to Wyatt he wanted to but was worried you would be upset." Sarah smiled, "Well that settles that and maybe Wyatt and Lyndy can come with him for support." Ty shook his head in agreement, "Well, ask him and if he does I am sure Wyatt will be there for sure. I think Lyndy has a big test tomorrow."

They moved to the porch as the afternoon warmed up and waited for the trail ride group. Right on time they saw them heading down the path from the woods. And they all smiled when they saw that Lyndy and Chuck were with them. They stepped down and met them all with hugs and hellos. Amy asked that the kids settle the horse in for the night and that Wyatt, Lyndy and Chuck join them on the porch. Maddie was about to squawk but Annie grabbed and shushed her, speaking up, "We got it mom." As they all headed to the barn, the parents brought the three of them to the porch. Sarah led the conversation and Chuck was relieved that he was going to be able to stay for the trial. Mom, I want to be there for you, dad and Mr. and Mrs. Borden. I need to be." They all smiled as Wyatt patted his shoulder in support. Sarah continued, "Honey, we talked and if you want, Wyatt can be there to, only if it is Ok with you Wyatt." He smiled and gave the answer they expected. Ty spoke up, "Well its settled and you all can stay the night here. We have a guest room for your guys and I am sure that Chuck can bunk with Wyatt. Well after him and Lyndy have their nightly talk." Lyndy smacked her dad, "Really dad, not too embarrassing." As that was settled, Vince's parents were right on time and after dinner, the Bordens gave them some space for goodbyes. Isla had a long hug for her best new buddy and they promised to see each other soon. The family got to bed a little early as the Bordens had school and the others had the trial. The next morning the Plummers observed the morning ritual and after everyone left, they got ready to leave. The trial started at 9:30 but the lawyers wanted to meet a half hour before that. The drive to the courthouse was quiet and as they walked in Amy and Sarah held on to each other. They were brought into the room and as the lawyers entered they were pleased that Chuck had decided to come. Thet look at Wyatt wondering why he was they and Chuck spoke up, "Wyatt is my friend and here to help me, I hope it is Ok?" They smiled in agreement. After they finished, they headed out to the courtroom. Amy, Chuck and Sarah sat at the head table and the others were right behind them. Sarah gasped when she saw Jack, Lisa, Lou, Scott, Tim, Cass and Caleb walked in. Amy leaned over, "I told you family is always there for you." She smiled and looked back to Vince with tears in her eyes.

A few minutes before the judge was to come out several security guards ushered in a handcuffed Chase Powers. He looked a little thinner but still flashed a smile to an attractive women in the courtroom before her glared at Amy and Ty. When he saw Chuck he smiled and winked to him. Chuck thought he was going to vomit. What Amy and Sarah didn't know was that several of the women there were also victims of Chase and would be recognized by the court. Ty and Vince also noted several members of the press, since due to the multiple provincial implications it was a story. Before they turned their phones off Amy and Ty received a text that made them both smile. It was from Maryanne Trudeau and it simply said, "Justin and I are there with you both, bury him." They looked at each other and smiled and turned off their phones as they stood when the judge came in the courtroom. As they sat back down and reality set in, Amy and Sarah grabbed each other hands. The court clerk went through the procedures for the day and they judge then spoke to the defendant making him stand and face his charges. The judge seem to be genuinely disgusted with the charges against Chase and talked down to him several times. He then said something that shocked their lawyers, "Mr. Powers, these are disturbing charges and I for one see a quick end to these proceedings. I want to also make note that 8 other women have approached me in the last few days and are here in the courtroom. It seems your actions have reached well beyond Mrs. Plummer, her son Chuck and Mrs. Fleming. Additional charges have already been filed with th provincial courts so it seems we may be spending a lot of time together, which to be honest disturbs me. And as a reminder, by the laws of the province, this is not a trial by jury and my ruling will be final. So Mr. Prosecutor the floor is yours. Before he stood up he whispered to the two women next to them smiling, "Well that is a first, I have never heard a judge open a trial like that." They looked over at Chase as his lawyer was openly concerned, whispering something to her ever defiant client. As their lead lawyer stood up confidentiality he describe the events that led to the arrest and charging of the defendant. First he detailed the years of spousal and child abuse that Sarah and Chuck had to endure at the hands of Chase Powers. He mentioned the affairs he had and in some cases other children that resulted. He mentioned that even after a restraining order, he continued to show up since he had a right to see his son. He mentioned that on several occasions had both verbally and physically abused Chuck because he had told him he was no longer his son but Vince Plummers, even taking their name. As he mentioned that Chuck was visibly upset and Wyatt reached up and patted his shoulder in support. The judge asked several questions and reviewed some evidence referring to several court orders that detailed his contact restrictions. In another move the judge called both attorneys to the stand for a consult. The words were hushed and Amy noted that their lawyer was adamant about something. The judges finally agreed and the other lawyer watched in silence. He spoke to the courtroom, "Well to be honest, I just offered that the prosecutor had no real need to continue as what he has presented so far is pretty conclusive. But he insisted that we also here the story of the clinic incident and I will allow it." The lawyers went back to their clients and both spoke to them quietly. Amy and Sarahs lawyer simply said, "We go him." They looked over to Chase and he looked ashen and defeated. They clutched hands again.

Their lawyer stood up to continue his opening statement. He detailed the plan that was in place for the clinic with the local authorities and assured the judge that it was not entrapment and to be honest there was a concern that Mr. Powers would be on guard and not act up. What he described shocked the courtroom audience and although he know most of the details, even th judge was taken aback. As the story continued Amy shook remembering what had happened to the horse and how Chase was wild in anger at her. Her mind went back to the times when she let him mess up her relationship with Ty and how uncomfortable the Ring of Fire tour was with him. She recalled how he had hit on every woman he met and that on several mornings one or several women be seen coming out of his trailer. He was sickening and she felt ill holding her stomach. Ty immediately noticed her discomfort and whispered to the other lawyer, "I need to get Amy out of here, I think she is going to be sick." He interrupted the other lawyer and spoke quietly. He confidently went spoke to the judge, "Your honor, this discussion is making Mrs. Borden physically ill, may we have a 15 minute recess?" He looked at Amy, "Young lady take all the time you need, to be honest I feel a little uncomfortable myself. 20 minute recess for everyone and Mrs. Borden if it is longer, we will wait for you to return." She smiled weakly as they all walked out to the hallway. Ty motioned to Lou as she went to her sister and Sarah. She smiled, "Girls let's take a walk." Fifteen minutes later they returned and Amy seemed much calmer. She hugged Ty tightly and looked at the lawyer, "Let's go finish this." The group entered the courtroom and on the way to sit back down several of the other women that were victims of Chase Power's wrath said hello and hugged the two women. The courtroom settled and the clerk brought the room to order. The judge directed their lawyer to continue and within 15 minutes he ended his opening statement. He mentioned that all three of his clients were willing to testify if needed. The judge smiled at them and acknowledged appreciating their willingness and if needed he will consider it.

The defense attorney was next and although she was very professional and focused her reasoning didn't seem to impress the judge or the folks in the courtroom. She detailed that Chase Powers was a highly regarded horse trainer and his work was well known and respected. She contended that with fame come the possibility that some would over exaggerate things that may bring them fame and notoriety as well. She mentioned that he came from nothing and a family that was not a part of his life. And she pointed out that in spite of that, he built a reputable career. Finally she asked the judge to consider his accomplishments in her decision. Her statement was short and without emotion, seeming as though she didn't even believe herself. The judge thanked both lawyers, looked at her watch and spoke, "Well, I believe we all need a break and will take an hour and a half for lunch. To be frank, I just hope I have an appetite. Court will reconvene at 1:00pm." Everyone rose and as the judge left the chambers Amy, Sarah and the family sighed and relaxed their tense shoulders. There was a café just down the street so they decided to grab something to eat. They sat quietly and when the finished they took a longer walk back to the courthouse to get some fresh air. They all got back a few minutes early and took their seats. Amy glanced over and noticed that Chase was staring blankly at the judges stand. She smiled and realized he knew he was defeated. The clerk asked them all to stand as the judge took her seat. Everyone came to order and she took a second to speak. "As was stated, my decision is all that is necessary to make a decision, set jail time and decide on any reparations. And my decision is noted, either legal team can decide to appeal as by your rights." She took another breath, "I have tried thousands of cases over my 25 years as a judge and have seen and heard some terrible things. This case has been unnerving for me as not only people were impacted but the gentlest of all creatures, horses. Wil the defense please rise." Chase and his team all stood. The judge continued looking right at him. "In normal cases I would most likely like to hear from the defendants. In this case it would be Sarah and Chuck Plummer as well as Amy Borden. And to be honest I have had almost a dozen other women in this courtroom who also volunteered to testify. But in this case I am waving that and am ready to distribute the sentence." Chase's lawyer spoke abruptly, "Your honor, with all respect, does my client not have the right to hear his accusers?" What the judge said next rocked the entire room, "Your client has no regard for any of his accusers and that disrespect does not warrant that privilege. Mr. Powers, I find you guilty on all counts here today including the almost 2 dozen others we have. I sentence you to 50 years in prison without parole and you will be remanded immediately to the Alberta Correctional Center, a maximum security facility in rural Grande Cache, Alberta. All of your assets will be dissolved and distributed to the 28 people listed as defendants equally for damages you inflicted on them. Those distributions will be handled by the court and distributed as soon as they are ready. This case is adjourned." As she left the courtroom erupted in a mix of applause, tears and relief. As Chase was taken away he looked over at his son and received a stone cold look back. Chuck turned to his mom and hugged her as they both burst into tears. As Ty went to hug Amy, Vince went to his wife and son. Amy whispered to all of them, "It's over, it's finally over"