A/N – This chapter was fun to write, I hope you all find it fun to read. I love your guesses into the plot line, some of you hit very close to the mark. Keep them and the reviews coming, I love reading them.

Chapter 56

If as the saying goes, children could actually bounce off walls it would have been an apt description of Jackson's reaction to being shipped off to the great white north. It was all they could do to keep his head from exploding at the idea.

For her part Amy was a little shocked that she'd said it, not the dad part, just at all. The girls made sure that they were with Jackson every time he spoke with Ty, one sitting next to him and one facing him, keeping him in line. They decided that it would be a surprise for everyone in Alberta. Jackson was going to have the time of his life, she was sure of it and pretty sure Ty would as well.

Jackson insisted on starting to pack immediately. There was the inevitable argument over a nice pair of jeans and a button down shirt.

"Come on mom, where will I wear that ?"

"Traveling for one Jackson and I have a funny feeling Grand Mere is going to sneak you away to the club to show you off and you will behave yourself and act like a proper young gentleman."

"Yes ma'am"

"Are you taking your tackle ?"

"Sure am, should I pack Dr. Borden's too ?"

"Actually sweetie, his is in Alberta remember ?"

"Oh yeah right."

"Now, you'll wear your white hat and tell Aunt Lou to fit you with a nice black one and to trim it. Not Dr. Borden, he doesn't get the whole cowboy hat thing. Wear your nice boots and we'll pack the ranch ones and your runners."

"Ok, mom you're not mad at me are you ?"

"Of course not Jackson but I bet a big part of your being unhappy is missing Ty and I think he's missing us a lot too. Besides, you're driving us all crazy, in a good way sweetie but still, I know you're bored and it's distracting. You do want to go ?"

"Oh yeah just making sure, you know, about us."

"You know I don't get mad at you often Jackson."

"I know, you're not that kind of mom and I'm a pretty good kid.

"Go pick 7 underwear and socks good kid." She laughed.

"What about waders ?"

"Ask Grandpa, we probably have your size, Katies' or Georgies' if not they'll have them at Maggie's, taking flies, did you check ?"

"Yeah, Charlie and Maddie sat with me and the magazines and we picked some from ours that were close but GG will have flies."

"Ok, you need anything ask Lisa or Aunt Lou. I'll give you your phone and iPad in the morning, please don't abuse the privilege."

"Money ?"

"The credit card is on your phone and we'll give you some money to have with you, plan on shopping ?"

"Have to buy gifts, April, Cars, the girls, you know."

Amy smiled, he was so sweet sometimes, this was going to be harder than she thought.

Jackson was not that kid who stayed up all excited about a next day event or trip, Amy checked on him 15 minutes after turning off the light in his room and he was fast asleep. His last call to Ty under her watchful eye, all travel gear stowed safely out of sight.

Betty knocked on Amy's door a little later and found her and Georgie as usual sitting and chatting while working.

"Excited about going back to Alberta Georgie ?" She said sitting down and opening the little fridge for a bottle of water.

"Excited about seeing Wyatt, not so excited about the reactions I'll get. It sounds like it's not just Ty with reentry issues.

"Wyatt's friends ?"

"Adam mostly but I have a funny feeling there's something behind that then just leaving. They hardly see each other anymore and Adam's destined to med school."

"So what do you think it is ?"

"Adam's very competitive academically and as a life thing I guess ? Prestige and money ? His folks are the Sheriff and a college professor."

"So Cornell and $100K is an issue ?"

"The apartment is an issue, I doubt he told them our salaries but Olivia apparently sat there drooling and staring at Adam when they were looking. What do you think something like that goes for in Alberta ?"

"In Calgary probably 3 grand I'd say."

"Not furnished and not like that." Betty added. "$4000 easy in Manhattan probably 10."

"Anyhow, Ivy League, yeah that's an issue, hell, you being a professor's an issue for Adam."

"What is wrong with all these people, I never wanted other people's stuff when I didn't have it." Amy said.

"Well I can honestly say back when I was jealous about all things Olivia you were there to point out how many things she could be jealous of and it helped a lot, you helped a lot."

"Don't let those people bother you Georgie, I know it's hard to hear people not exactly happy for you or question the why's or why not me's. You two will work hard for what you have and what you'll get and on those bone tired nights you might wish for something else."

"Thanks Betty, I'll try not to take it all to heart. I was raised to hard work. I'd better head to bed, I've got a big day too. Oh Amy, unless one of us dreams of something Sandra has the final drafts for the architect to work with."

"Anything really different ?"

"Well you know about the three smaller indoor pools, we think we might get a lot of use out of an outdoor lap pool, heated we can use it 7 months out of the year and we're bound to have horses balk at the indoor pools."

"I'm not going to quibble about an outdoor trench with plumbing."

Georgie packed her stuff and kissed them both goodnight. "I'll take good care of him Amy."

"I know you will Georgie, all of you will, missing them both though."

"I know stay focused on the quiet."

"Say what's on your mind old woman" Amy said while writing. Georgie had left and there was quiet for a few minutes.

"You Ok with this Amy ?"

"We've had rainy spells before Betty, this isn't just April and Cars."

"I didn't ask if this was good for Jackson or Ty sweetheart just if you're Ok with your decision."

"The second I said it I questioned it but not now, It'll be good for him and we can all focus on getting through the rain."

Amy worried before her last call of the evening, she really didn't want to lie to Ty even if it was for a surprise but she didn't have to worry because he got on very ready to explore the world of FaceTime chat again and Amy was fine with it.

Batteries recharged JT was once again his normal ball of energy in the morning and took to his chores with gusto. He made sure before leaving the barn that he found Chuck and reassigned his chores to the hands pool along with specific instructions for each horse. Chuck nodded as Jackson spoke and then stopped him. "Jack, we know how to take care of a horse, even Ty's horse, even Merlin."

"Ok, Ok, and the alpacas and bunnies."

"We won't hurt anything Jack, say hi to Ty for me."

"Ok well bye Chuck." Jackson said putting out his hand.

"We're shaking now ?"

JT smiled and reached around him which is how Amy found them when she turned in.

"Just saying goodbye mom."

"I promised not to kill anything." Chuck said in his deadpan style and followed by his crooked smile.

"Hmmm, that's good Chuck, we'll hold you to that I think."

"Go wash up and finish packing Jackson."

"Are we going by truck or chopper ?"

"Chopper to and Wyatt's picking you up in Calgary."

"You're not gonna blubber are you ?"

"That's pretty much a guarantee JT, sorry."

"It's Ok mom, I just don't like seeing it."

"They're tears of love sweet boy not sorrow. You go be with Ty."

"You miss him a lot huh ?"

"I learned to be away from him and now that's all melted away, I miss him like crazy Jackson."

"Think he'll be happy to see me, not mad right ?"

"I think seeing you will make him the happiest man in Alberta JT."

"He'd be happier to see you I bet."

"A different happy I think, it's not a competition Jackson."

Ty for the most part had an easy Friday. He started with a video chat from the dining room table with Tiffany's at 10 Alberta time and with the brooch in view. Ty started at $10,000 reasoning that he was completing the set which should thrill them. He was told by the Morton's his new buddies, that Tiffany's paid an outrageously low $8000 for the piece privately and to Ty, a $2000 profit was more than enough.

"How about this, the woman who will be wearing this is stunningly beautiful. How about a picture of her in the reunited set in a couture dress specifically designed to match the jewelry."

"Our photographer."

"How could I possibly arrange that ?"

"Where and when will she be wearing the set ?"

"We'll be at the Roxy in Tribeca this coming Thursday overnight."

"Give us 15 minutes in the lobby, we'll make all the arrangements."

"This won't be released to the press ?"

"Of course not only in a catalog piece for file, Tiffany mystique, we'll be happy to copy you on anything."

"Fine, I'll message you our attorney's name, put it in writing and send it to him, if he says it's Ok, we're good. I actually think she'll love the idea."

"We'd like you too Dr. Borden if you'd consent ?"

"Excuse me ?"

"You brought the set together for your one true love it's only fitting, besides it couldn't hurt having that smile in the picture."

"Fine, in the agreement please."

"We'll send it over today. Thank you Dr. Borden."

"Thank you, this was nicer than I thought it would be."

That done Ty headed into town and to the clinic to work on his backlog of partner stuff which all had to be done before they moved on. They ordered Chinese for lunch and sat around talking about changes and looking through a set of Curriculum Vitae of Vet candidates sent over by the vet schools in the area. Ty took a few patients when the waiting room got unruly or backlogged, it was a calm and peaceful day and he appreciated it.

Wyatt told everyone that he didn't want to make any real plans until Georgie was in Alberta, which is what Georgie told him because she didn't want to involve JT in anything. Besides, she may just want to shack in with Wyatt and some take out.

They put Jackson on the phone with Ty when the chopper was incoming and as soon as they said goodbye everyone went into radio silence. Any latent comment could spoil the surprise. Calls from Ty were simply sent to the answering message or simply not answered.

At 3:00 Cass and Scott headed out on some calls and the office was closed to all but emergencies. Ty worked on whittling away at his pile of work. He laughed thinking that he probably looked exactly like he saw Amy over her piles. She had taken on so much, learned so much, it was almost unbelievable the capacity she seemed to have to take on more and more. He hadn't had a chance yet, so he put aside the practice paperwork and pulled out the first volume of Amy's book.

He read for an hour or so and was finishing the second chapter which was the first chapter on Spartan when his phone rang and he just reached for it.

"Ty Borden."

"Mi amante" the soft voice said.

"Helena, good to hear from you, I hope everything's Ok ?"

"Everything's fine Ty, I'm in Lethbridge and driving back to Calgary soon and I thought I'd stop for dinner, maybe you'd like to catch up. How about 6:00 at Maggie's ?"

"Won't that make your drive home late ?"

"I'm on business, if it's late I can stay over somewhere."

"Uhm fine then, 6:00 at Maggie's it is."

Ty sat for a few minutes and went back to the book, reading about fixing Spartan brought back memories and eventually he got to Blair and picked up the phone. He got Amy's messages, again and left one "Hey Ames, somethings come up, give me a call when you get this please. It's important, love you."

Amy listened to the message, it was almost 5:00 in Calgary and Wyatt was fighting Calgary traffic to get to Hudson. Thinking for a second she figured better safe than sorry and opted to wait the hour until 6:00 Alberta time when Jackson would be turned over. Important isn't an emergency, it can wait an hour."

Ty was bothered that Amy hadn't called back so he tried Betty and then the girls. Finally, frustrated, he called Ash to bear witness.

"I don't know what she wants Ash, she says to catch up though she called me Mi Amante when she called, it was her pet name for me."

"My lover ? Seriously Ty, you don't know what she wants, you've become Hudson Amy ?"

"Hudson Amy ?"

"Hudson Amy, that's my name for pre Pegasus clueless Amy."

"Whatever, I guess this is my chance to set Helena straight again."

"I'll be there, at another table, she doesn't know me. You know for moral support and in case she assaults you."

"Thanks Ash, you're a true blue friend." Ty said sarcastically.

"I've got your back bro. Try her again, leave a message this time."

Ash got off the phone and called Lou. Ty got off the phone and called Amy.

"Hey Ames, look, Helena is stopping at Maggie's for dinner on the way home North to Calgary and asked me to join her so I just wanted you to know. I love you, call if you want, please ?"

In Ithaca Amy was occupied and didn't know a call had even come in. She was busy reading the riot act to Bert who was sneezing and hacking up a storm in her medical barn.

"Go home Bert, now before I have two hands tie you up do you understand me !" She seethed. "John is here, we have nothing brewing and you can just as well think about Boxer at home than here now go !"

"Amy."

"I said go Bertram Koenig, don't make me call the club."

"Fine, I'll go." Bert said.

"Come back Monday."

"Amy, I have."

"I will have you shot, I swear Bert."

Those working in the barn were used to these two going at it like brother and sister pushing buttons, the only difference, there was no dad to get between them. It was all they could do but smirk and hide their laughter as Amy dressed him down.

"This is from Sarah, use it, Monday for rounds."

"Did she make it particularly foul ?"

"She loves you Bert, the instructions say one shot mixed with one shot cognac every six hours followed by sleep."

"The woman knows a way to a man's heart. How about a smooch Amy ?"

"Get away from me, your like this big gross contagious thingee."

"Thingee ? John, call if you need me."

"You got it Bert, feel better."

"I'll talk to you Amy, Georgie and Jackson land yet ?" Bert said walking past.

"With Wyatt probably almost in Hudson by now."

When Bert left Amy walked into the office and sat down with John. She wanted his impressions on Boxer now that he was back and to ask about Alberta and if there was anything she needed to know.

Ty walked into Maggie's at about 5:50 and noticed Ashley in front of her laptop with a cup of coffee and Lou behind the counter.

"Lou, I thought you'd be at Heartland waiting for Georgie or has that changed ?"

"Ash called, I'm here backing her up."

"What the hell do you think's going to happen ?"

"Ty, she chewed you out in a restaurant, they threatened to call the police."

"Yeah but that's done, we're broken up, I can't break up more."

"Telling her you're marrying Amy is breaking up more Ty, Mi Amante really ?"

"This is getting way too drama queen for me Lou, it'll be fine."

"I've got Jim on speed dial."

"Stop, Ok ?" Ty looked around and peeked in the kitchen.

"Oh man Ty, Viv's off for the night, does Amy know you're doing this ?"

"I called and then called and left a very explicit message and I have witnesses. I can't get anyone on the phone."

Of course as soon as he said it his phone rang though it was Georgie.

"Hey Georgie, you at Heartland?"

"No, coming into Hudson in like 10 minutes, I have a present for you that Amy wants delivered personally, where are you ?"

"Maggie's but you can just bring it to Heartland Georgie, really."

"No can do Ty, boss gave very specific orders, you know how that is."

"Fine, I'm at Maggie's, come join the fun, hey have you heard from Amy ?"

"No, got a funny clip Barb recorded of Amy throwing Bert out though."

"I'll see it later, bye."

Ty saw Lou's expression change and turned to see the door open and Helena Montoya his ex girlfriend walk in. Ty walked to her and leaned over for a peck on the cheek which she somehow turned into a way softer affair than he had intended. Ty immediately also noticed two things, first, she didn't look like she would after a long day on the road and heading home and second she was wearing his cologne. Seriously, he was fucked.

Helena was about 5 foot 8 inches, with long straight black hair and dark brown eyes, huge dark brown eyes. Her skin was slightly darker that most Albertans and her high cheekbones reflected her history and ancestors from Peru. All told and as you would expect Helena was a very pretty woman. She wore what appeared to be a well tailored, somewhat tight business suit with a silk blouse that showed more than what most would wear for a business meeting. Ty wasn't the only one to notice.

"Hi Lou, good to see you again, the family well ?"

"Everyone's fine Helena thank you, and you look well."

"Oh you know, gotta keep going."

"Yes you do." Lou said thinking that maybe she should just take her own advice.

Ty led Helena to a table near the tack side of the diner, they were generally more private and they each took a menu.

Ty had his back to the door. "Cassandra told me you were in New York the last time we spoke."

"I was, I just got back. I went to see Amy Fleming."

"And how did that go, she left rather abruptly I remember and broke your heart."

Ty didn't pay attention to the door opening. Lou had her back to it and turned around to see Georgie look around and Jackson standing outside with his finger over his mouth.

"Well, we talked a lot out and well we've reconnected and plan to be married next summer."

"Talked a lot out ?" She asked a bit darker than Ty liked.

Georgie smiled seeing Helena and that evil Georgie side took over. She never liked Helena and considered her a bitch so she signaled for Jackson to come in and get behind her and walked up alongside Ty with Jackson hiding. Lou had no idea what was going on and looked over to Ash who was standing and coming to the counter.

"Hello Georgie" Helena said.

Ty turned then and looked at Georgie. "Hey Georgie, I was just telling Helena about Amy, what's so important that you had to see me immediately ?"

"Well I promised to deliver this package personally" and she stepped aside.

Jackson stood there, White Hat, striped shirt, nice blue jeans, boots and the widest, happiest most precious smile. "Mom sent me."

"I see, was there a message ?" Ty said his face a picture of absolute joy.

"She said, go bother your Dad, so, wanna go fishin ?"

"First thing tomorrow." Ty said and reached over to scoop him up, it was obvious to anyone looking, it would have been obvious to the plastic horse outside, Ty's face transformed entirely when he held Jackson against his chest, his gentle arms around the boy, Jackson holding on with all his might. It was also obvious to Helena who put 2 and 2 together and came up with 5. Ty glanced over and put Jackson down.

"Dad ?" She whispered.

"It's not what you think."

"Hey look, there's Aunt Ash, hey Aunt Ash" Jackson called out walking over to Ashley and climbing up on a stool to reach over to hug Lou.

"You have a son with her and didn't tell me ?" She said standing.

"Wait a second" Ty started also getting back to his feet, unfortunately he was stopped by the slap. It wasn't a Meg Koenig knock your block off slap but it was solid and everyone heard it. They also heard a steady stream of Spanish heading down the aisle and out the door.

"Whoa" Jackson called out "What'd you do ?"

"She actually assaulted him" Ashley muttered from the seat behind Jackson.

"You better get some peas Dr. Borden." Jackson said.

Lou called into the kitchen and was handed a frozen bag of peas and tossed it over. She was trying not to burst out laughing, Georgie was laughing so hard she couldn't catch her breath. "That was awesome !"

In true Hudson style a moment later the diner patronage all applauded and Ty turned and bowed. "What the hell just happened ?" He muttered trying to keep the peas on the sting that was his cheek.

It was the perfect time for his phone to ring. He pulled it out and glanced down "I am not doing this now." He turned, handed it to Ashley, took Jackson's hand and walked out the door.

"Tomorrow Jackson, I will try to explain tomorrow."

"Yes sir, uhm, you Ok ?"

"I'm fine Jackson. Do you have bags ?"

"In Wyatt's car and my tackle."

Ty stopped at the Porsche, he thought for a second then figured Wyatt was bringing Georgie to Heartland for a little while and would deliver Jackson's stuff, not to worry.

"Is this ours ?"

"We rented it for the month Jackson, like it ?"

"Yeah, pretty cool, not for fishin' though huh ?"

"We have a truck too Jack and horses, don't worry, we'll fish, I promise."

"So I know you said tomorrow but that lady was mad that you were, well my dad."

Ty nodded and pulled the car over next to a canola field. He turned to Jackson

"That woman is an old girlfriend of mine who thought that I was your natural father Jackson and thought I kept that a secret from her."

"Why would she think that ? I mean your not but that would be mean."

"I guess at this stage we'll never know Jackson, we good ?"

"Gonna tell mom ?"

"I left my phone with Aunt Ash, I'm sure Mom knows by now, from every angle."

"Well from my angle you got walloped."

"Thank you Jackson, I don't need any more reminders."

"Yes sir."

Ty shifted and then reached over and tussled Jackson's hair.

Jackson reached up and stretched his hand, Ty saw what he was doing and leaned over for Jack to tussle his.

"Ready buddy ? Your family has lived on this land almost 170 years."

"I know, Samuel Bartlett had a son named Jackson, bam."

Ty pulled down the road, Lisa and Jack were both out on the porch and heading down the stairs. He was in Lisa's arms first and she hugged him close. Jack lifted him up, "Jackson, welcome to Heartland."

Since nobody actually ate any food to speak of at Maggie's, Georgie and Wyatt showed up with enough for all. Ashley and Lou pulled up a few minutes later.

"Cass is on the way and Trish will stop bye" Lou said.

"I don't need Trish and why is Cass coming ?" Ty said looking up.

"Guess who got the bi-lingual tearing out of town phone call ?" Ashley told him.

"Did she at least get to explain that Jackson is adopted and will be adopted by me or am I going to have to look over my shoulder for the rest of my life ?"

"I think she may have gotten it in but you'll have to get it from her, you ready for Amy ?"

"Oh boy" Jackson said.

"It'll be fine Jackson, give me the phone Ash and someone please swap my peas."

"Swap my peas, I have to remember to tell the girls that." Jackson said laughing.

"Jackson, I'm right here." Ty said

"Oh, sorry."

"Get washed up for dinner Jackson, the bathroom's first door on the right. Your room will be third, that was your mom's room."

"Cool."

"It is cool."

"Lisa you have him ?"

"I have him Ty, go take your call."

Ty scooted upstairs and shut the door. He dialed the phone and lay it down walking over to the mirror to look at his face.

"How bad is it ?" Was the first thing Amy said.

"It was a slap, I'm not sure it will swell, it's more raw."

"I'm so sorry Ty, we really meant it as a surprise."

"It was, is, amazing Ames, this was just so weird."

"And my fault."

"Not your fault don't be silly. I'll call you later, none of us has eaten. Jackson's in your room."

"Don't make me cry Ty."

"No helping that Ames, we'll be sitting in front of that fireplace soon enough.

"Can I see your face ?"

"Later, I promise."

"I love you Ty, I'm so sorry this happened to you."

"I'll be fine, I promise, I love you too Amy."

Jackson was waiting at the table with Georgie, Wyatt, Ash, Cass and Jack. Ty bypassed the group to check in the kitchen with Lisa and Lou.

"Go sit Ty, we're fine." Lisa said hoisting two bowls of salads and walking past to the table.

Ty came out and Jack nodded to the seat across from him.

"You all settled Jackson ?" Ty asked looking over.

"Yes sir, Aunt Lou helped me unpack. Are those really all of mom's ribbons."

"They sure are kiddo." Lou confirmed "your mom won a lot of events."

"Cass ?" Ty asked.

"She knows, I explained it to her."

"Well at least that's something."

"For what it's worth she was sorry in the end."

"Whatever, I don't need an apology. Jackson what do want Chicken or chili ?"

"Chicken please."

"Who knows where the waders stack is these days ?"

"Quonset." Jack said after a drink. "I'll take him in the morning and get him a pair."

"I'll have to run home for my stuff, it's still standing Lisa ?"

"And all cleaned up Ty."

"Aunt Lou mom says you should fit me a black hat and make sure they trim it."

"I can take you Jackson" Ty said.

"Nope, mom said you don't get cowboy hats, Aunt Lou."

"She's right there son, you don't get cowboy hats." Jack said laughing. "Where's the fishing tomorrow Ty ?"

"Thompkins Bend is usually good this time of year Jack, that spot off Stumpy's place. That's about a half hour by horse."

"Nice ride over too."

"Join us."

"Yeah GG, come fishin' with us."

"How about Lis and I join you two after lunch ?"

"That would be nice Jack." Lisa agreed.

"Mom said you were gonna take me to show me off. I got nice clothes."

"Think you're up for that Jackson ?" Lisa asked.

"Yeah, I got a lunch of proper young gentleman in here somewhere." JT said smiling.

"I'll come along" Ty said laughing "just in case."

"That would be lovely Ty." Lisa said glowing.

They settled by the fire, it wasn't large but proper. Ty sat on the floor with his back against the couch reading Amy's book, Jackson sat between his legs leafing through a stack of Jack's Alberta fishing magazines. Just the two of them Jack, Lisa and Lou. Georgie and Wyatt had left after dinner.

"You know, it's funny how life works out," Jack started "Had you married Amy 8 years ago this scene could be exactly the same as it is now. Sitting with your 7 year old son, by the fire, right here."

Jackson yawned then and Ty leaned forward, "go get ready for bed Jackson, you've had a long day, come out and say good night and I'll come in and sit with you."

JT closed the magazine and flopped back against Ty who wrapped him in his arms and pulled him close. "Happy you're here son ?" He whispered. JT nodded and snuggled in.

Ty kissed his head "Come on, up you go, fishing tomorrow."

"Are the girls this far gone ?" Lou asked when the bathroom door closed.

"Oh, I don't know, how do measure something like that ?" Ty asked leaving the book and lifting himself to the couch.

"I get texts and pictures from them all day, I miss them, Amy said wait till school starts and they're gone for hours."

"And clubs and homework." Lou added.

"Amy said they schedule rides a few times a week just her and the kids, she said Marion would do it too."

"Yes she would" Jack said "Sometimes alone or with Soraya and Ash, that girl Jen. Just ride and leave it behind, be together."

JT came out and hugged his great grandparents and Aunt and Ty got up. "Bathroom, Aunt Lou is right across from you and I'm right upstairs." Ty pointed out each door. "Have to pee ?"

"Nope, can we call mom and Gran ?"

"Right now, everyone's waiting."

Ty snapped off the light and closed the door 15 minutes later, Jackson was fast asleep.

"Out like a light" Ty said walking past to the kitchen and grabbing a bottle of water.

"I can't imagine what Amy went through, look at him, I have his medical charts, I can't."

"You can't feel guilty about that Ty." Lisa said softly.

"Sure I can, see."

Lou leaned over and hugged him. "I used to think that way about Georgie, what she went through, 8 years in foster care, shuffled around, torn from her brother. We would have loved her so much."

"When does it stop ?"

"Sometime between 3 weeks and a lifetime."

"Thinking about that surgery Ty ?"

"You know not really Jack, I know that'll be hard but it's a known, the girls and Jackson they do real work, rescue work, in the pen with who knows what, the twins are front line just like Amy was they walk right in and boss around a 1000 lb horse. Liberty, jumping, cross country."

"You don't have to tell us Ty, watching your daughter trick riding at Georgie's level will bind your bowels." Lou said laughing.

"I guess, what a family we make up."

"We survive Ty, lick our collective wounds and move on, just like those folks around Amy in Ithaca." Jack said. "I'm for bed."

"So am I" Ty agreed.

"Oh Ty, the date." Lisa recalled.

"Jack, I wonder if you wouldn't mind taking Jackson up to the fishing cabin on Thursday while we're away. I'll fly in Friday afternoon and be up late afternoon. Stay the weekend with him."

"You'll talk to him ?"

"I'll take care of it Jack."

"Then I'd love to."

"Lou, we can ask Georgie and Wyatt to stay here for the weekend ?" Ty asked.

"I'll think about it, I'm a big girl Ty."

"They can use our support while they're here, Wyatt mentioned that their friends are somewhat put out as well." Ty said.

"Georgie mentioned" Lou acknowledged. "Adam and Olivia ?"

"And some others I guess." Ty added. "Night all."

Jackson came out of his room early and walked over to the bathroom to find it locked.

"I'l be out in a minute." Jack called.

Come on GG I have to pee, it's Ok, I'll use another bathroom."

Lisa walked into the dining room wiping her hands. "Grand mere, can I use your bathroom please."

"We only have the one Jackson, you'll just have to wait your turn."

"I'll just go pee outside." He said walking to the door.

"Whoa buddy, no peeing outside." Ty said coming downstairs.

"Well, I got what I'm getting you guys for Christmas, a bathroom."

"He can probably afford one" Ty muttered walking over to Lisa who had brought in a cup of coffee for him.

She smiled as he reached down to kiss her cheek, "you know we could probably swing it if Jackson got on his case and offered to pay."

Ty laughed when his phone buzzed "this'll be fun."

"Jackson, it's your mom, say good morning."

Jackson took the phone and hit the button. "Morning mom"

"Good morning JT, sleep Ok ?"

"Oh yeah, we should buy GG and Grand Mere a toilet."

"All clear" Jack said walking out.

"Go ahead Jackson" Ty said smiling.

He handed the phone to Ty and shot into the bathroom.

"Hey Ames,"

"Oh gross, warn a kid will you, arghhhhhh, this is torture."

Ty, Lisa and Amy on the phone just laughed.

Jack looked up walking by into the kitchen "what's for breakfast Lis ?"

Jackson walked out of the bathroom and mocked passing out.

"Ok Jackson, that'll be enough go with Grand mere she'll fix you breakfast and GG will set you up with waders and flies. I'm just going to talk with mom for a bit, then head to the house for my gear.

"I'll pack you lunches and snacks Ty ?"

"That would be great Lisa, thank you."

Ty shut the door an flopped on the bed. "This whole waking up without you Ames, just not doing it for me."

"I miss you too Ty, so much my love."

"What are your plans for the day ?"

"We're supposed to get a break in the rain for a few hours, we're all hands getting the horses out for some real exercise."

"Be careful in the mud and watch the girls."

"Listen to you all worried, we're always careful Ty."

"I know, still."

And you ?"

"Me ? Fishing until we drop or nightfall. I guess we'll break for food."

"Please tell me your'e Ok with this Ty ?"

"I'm so more than Ok Ames, it's all I can do not to just hold him in my arms all day."

"Yeah I know that feeling, I love you Ty call if you can sweetheart."

"Have a good day beautiful."

Wyatt was waiting in the kitchen when Ty got downstairs.

"Wyatt, I thought you'd be in town."

"You're going fishing all day, hand over the keys Ty."

"Ah, that explains it, hold on." A minute later Ty tossed the keys to the Porsche .

"Thank you, if you'll all excuse me I left Georgie napping."

"I don't have to hear that, I really don't." Jack said over his coffee.

"Sorry GG" Wyatt said "Uhm, you remember the whole wedding thing right."

"Out Wyatt" Jack said "have a good day. And Wyatt, resist the urge for the comeback."

"Yes sir."

It was about a 30 minute ride out of Heartland and through the provincial parkland to Stumpy's border fence. Ty rode Trouble and Jackson Checkers. Ty watched Jackson's entire demeanor change when they first heard the rush of the water. His face transformed into one of wonder when the trees broke and the river appeared. He rode down to the river's edge and pulled up like a seasoned rider way beyond his years. He dropped off Checker's side and led him along the rivers edge stopping at a curve to let Checkers drink.

"What do you think Jackson ?"

"Looks steady, some nice swirls for sure. Let's get fishing !"

"Why did Batman stop fishing with Robin ?"

"I have no idea Jackson."

"Cause he kept eating all the worms."

"They just get worse Jack."

"I know it's great, whole websites of stupid jokes."

The fishing was amazing and Jackson kept moving, trying different spots almost learning this small area like he was dissecting it's secrets. He kept up a constant flow of conversation and jokes, Ty was sure he had never been that happy anytime in his childhood and that thought warmed him all over.

For himself Ty was lost in a bubble, almost like those that came over him in surgery, as if the world closed in around him and the only thing he could see or concentrate on was right in front of him, he felt as if for that time Jackson was his whole life.

Caleb and Rusty came through the trees slowly and stopped. He looked out at the river and then noticed the two horses. In a second he spotted them sitting against a log. Ty had his arm around JT who was leaning against him. The were both eating apples and laughing. He nudged Rusty forward and when the Heartland horses recognized their friend and sounded off, Ty looked up.

"Hey Caleb, what brings you along ?"

"I was helping Stumpy round up some stock that broke free and he mentioned you being here, Ok if I barge in ?"

"Sure thing, come meet Jackson."

Jackson looked up at the cowboy and stood up, he grabbed his cowboy hat and put it on. When Caleb got down JT walked up and stuck out his hand, "Jackson Timothy Fleming, good to meet Caleb !"

"You too Jackson, that's a mouthful." Caleb said smiling while he shook JT's hand.

"JT, Jax or Jack works."

"So you're my da, uh Dr. Borden's best friend huh ?"

"I am, I think, I still want to be, I'm sorry."

"Ohhh kkkk" Jackson said slowly.

"He is Jackson" Ty said laughing. "Hungry Caleb ? We have some extra sandwiches."

"Well, I've got to pee and I spy no line right over there." JT said heading off.

Caleb handed Ty his phone, he had taken a picture of Ty and Jackson as he came down the hill. "That there is a good life Ty, I happy for you brother."

"Hey Caleb, where do fish keep their money ?"

"I can't say I know JT."

"In a riverbank" Jackson answered laughing.

"You sittin' Doc, I'm fishin"

"Where I can see you Jackson."

"I will, ever wonder why fish swim in schools ?"

"Can't say that I have, I'm sure you have though, go ahead."

"Cause they can't walk or run"

He giggled down to the water and they watched him wade out. He stood for a few minutes and then shifted. They both watched him let out line and look up as he began his cast.

"Kid can float a line, that's for sure, he didn't get that from you." Caleb whispered.

"I've been getting much better thank you."

"I can imagine watching him fish all day, kid's a natural. So, ours are a bit younger but Cass wants you two for dinner this week, possible ?"

"Sure, how's Monday night ?"

"Should work I'll let you know after I check with Cass."

"I should get back to fishing Caleb."

"I have to get back to the rodeo school anyway, later Ty."

"Jackson wave goodbye."

"Bye Caleb, good meeting you."

"You too Jackson, see you soon."

Lisa and Jack arrived not long after and were treated to Ty fighting a fish and Jackson ready with the net.

"Look at that" Lisa whispered.

Jackson was moving towards the fish "Pull left, that's a big rock, tip up, , you're clear just keep him coming, got him !"

"Nice fish Doc, no braggin' rights on this one but a fish is a fish, picture ?"

"Nah, let him go Jackson."

"No picture, must be having a good day" Jack said when he got down to the river and let Buddy drink. Lisa was on a horse named Siren, she had no idea why she was called that and neither did Haddie who was keeping her for Amy having determined she was too pretty to leave. Amy had her delivered to Lisa at Heartland. Siren was a beautiful golden palomino with a long cream colored silky mane and tail. Lisa fell in love with her immediately and Siren took to Lisa as well. Jack thought they made the perfect match and it was time for Lisa to move on from Cinders.

"That is some beautiful horse Lisa, is she new ?" Ty asked.

"She's a gift from Amy, she's gorgeous, I'm in love."

"Seems pretty calm too." Jack added.

"Calm and sure footed on the trail."

"So you'll keep her and make Amy happy ?"

"Yes Jack, I'll keep her, I know you've wanted me to replace Cinders, thanks for respecting my time."

Jack nodded."Jackson, the bite ?"

"We've had over a dozen GG, Hey GG do you know how many tickles it take to make an octopus laugh ?"

"Nope, can't say that I do."

"Tentickles." He answered laughing again.

Lisa came with a book and sat down by the same log Ty and Jack were at before. The three men fished for awhile and Ty came out and walked over to Lisa. He poured himself a cup of coffee from the thermos and sat down.

"Oh Ty, you got call at the house from a Kim Price who's the swimming coach at the High School, she said the pool is open from 8 – 9:30 on Monday, Wednesday and Friday for the team to practice over the summer. She wouldn't have a problem with Jackson using a lane."

"He'll need a bathing suit, I called Phyllis last night, she'd like him to at least swim while here, so this week, Monday and Wednesday, 20 minutes straight. I thought Coach Price was a guy ?"

"His daughter took over two years ago. So we'll do Wednesday luncheon at the club ?"

"Sure thing Lisa, that's 1:00 right ?"

"One o'clock and we sit for service at 1:30."

"Can I invite Val and Ash ?"

Lisa looked sidelong at him, "Fine."

"Lisa."

"I know and Val is someone I wouldn't mind showing off to."

"Lisa, he's your's what more do you want and you don't really hate Val and you know it."

"And you and Jesse ?"

"That's different."

"Why because there's testosterone involved. You won Ty, her, her kids and the job."

"Not the money ?"

"You want me to rub it in ?"

"No that's fine. He's favoring his leg, Jackson, out of the water."

"What's up ?" he called back.

"You tell me, you're favoring your leg, come on."

Jackson looked at him for a second.

"Now Jackson."

"Yes sir."

"He's a good boy Ty."

"And he's got a lunch of proper young gentleman stored up somewhere."

"He's just like Amy you know."

"Tell me about it."

"I'm Ok you know" Jackson said walking over.

"Get the waders off, your balance is off and your favoring your leg."

"Ok, ok, I get it, mom would be upset if you broke me, but."

"Jackson, answer me honestly if we were walking in town would you be on my shoulders right now ?"

"Yup, might have nothing to do with the leg though", he said sitting down between Ty's now open legs and laying back against his stomach and chest. They sat and chatted and watched Jack fish. At one point Lisa pointed to let Ty know Jackson was sleeping.

Ty reached over to his saddle bag and grabbed at the book but came out with a folder which spilled.

"What's this ?" Lisa asked.

"Well this is need to know but Amy said I could talk to you about it. Amy wants to offer the jumping facility to Nick and Claire."

"Think they'd be interested ?"

"Amy says she thinks so, Belgium's, at least where they are is changing a bit I guess and with the kids they would love to come back but it'll take a while to get out of the property."

"All of Europe, not just Belgium. I was going to talk to Amy about selling Toulon over time. Truth is you don't need it, you have the wherewithal to just go, it's nice."

"Amy's not one to give up family properties if it's not a burden."

"So this is that, Nick and Claire."

"That folder yes."

"I thought Bryce was getting that ?"

"Bryce will run roughshod over all three, Amy can barely keep up with two."

"Betty said she can use some slowing down."

"She's starting to nest."

"Seriously ?"

"She's talking about redoing the bedroom in the new house and she loved it. So I asked her."

"A place for the baby." Lisa said.

"Nesting."

"How's that feel ?"

"I have friends who had trouble, Cass and Caleb for instance. They tried for awhile. Amy's 31. I just don't want her freaking out over it if it takes some time. In case you haven't noticed, her patience level has actually decreased."

"I have actually, what's she been buying ?"

"Some art, glass sculptures actually, we looked at a dining room table, a lamp made out of an old fishing rack although she's looking for the entire contents of that shop and no, I've been scared to ask what she plans to do with it."

"She does high end comfy very well Ty, Jack didn't even complain."

"I'm in charge of the garage, I'm good with that Lisa. I guess we should pack up."

"Jackson, come on buddy, time to ride."

"Ok, I'm good." He said getting up and stretching. He walked over to the river and kneeled down to wash his face then walked over to break down his rod.

"My little trooper." Ty said standing and then giving a hand up to Lisa.

They got back early enough to take a ride into town. They stopped at Maggie's first and Ty turned Jackson over to Lou for a hat. Ty grabbed a cup of coffee and struck up a conversation with some ranchers. The Vet Clinic was the next stop and Jackson was excited. They were closed to the public by then but as expected Scott and Cass were there.

"Jackson Timothy Fleming, this is Scott Cardinal and Cassandra Odell, Cass is married to Caleb."

"Monday night's fine Ty" Cass said "6:00 Ok, my brood gets restless, especially Caleb."

"Six is fine Cass, schedule ?"

"How's Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday mornings 8 -1 ?"

"That's fine but I've got to take JT swimming first thing Monday and Wednesday."

"9-1 those days ?"

"Fine with me, sorry."

"No worries Ty." Cass said.

"I was going to grab the rest of that paperwork to finish at Heartland."

"Have a babysitter ?" Cass asked.

"We'll figure something out."

They stopped at the big box on the way back to Heartland after Ty explained about the swimming, "cool, I love racing the high school guys."

"I don't think we're talking about that Jackson."

Ty had Jackson pick two pair of swim trunks and headed home.

They settled in the living room after dinner. Ty had switched to light sweats and a T-shirt and Jackson into his PJ's., Ty and Jack were talking about available stock Caleb was working on getting rid of, Lisa was engrossed in her newest novel and Jackson was once again leaning back against Ty.

"I spoke with Tim who wasn't happy but he'll be here tomorrow morning, what's this all about."

"I thought you and Tim would take Jackson up the north ridge, maybe get a sense of who he is."

"And Lou ?"

"Has to be at Maggie's but she's fine, besides, a Grandpa and Great Grandpa."

"Jackson, what would you like to do when I'm seeing patients at the clinic this week ?"

"I could help you, I'm real good with all kinds of animals and I was thinking Vet might be a good job for me."

Ty took a second to compose himself, it was hard to believe something that simple having that effect on him, seeing him Lisa smiled.

"OK, let's see if that works, you have to listen though Jackson."

"I will, I promise."

"I know, come on let's get you to bed kiddo, been a long day."