A/N : Thanks for the reviews, PM's and support. To the reviewer whose birthday it is today, Happy Birthday !
Chapter 72
Friday morning, Lisa sat down in her little office, Amy's old room as it was still referred to. She didn't mind, looking at the walls it was definitely Amy's room. Jack had left to the herd, Lou was at Maggie's and Katie at school. Sipping her coffee, she reread the lovely hand written letter she'd received with the manuscripts. It was written in Amy's unmistakable hand on beautiful stationary paper that she could only imagine was hand made. She had to admit she was quite taken by the request, Amy had asked her to write the foreword to the first volume of her textbook, the case studies.
"Dear Lisa,
I've been putting off writing this for some reason, mostly I guess due to my fear that the books won't be accepted as scholarly and that each part of the process that brings the reality of these being published closer compounds that fear. As you've heard my part is done and now it's time for me to ask that two very special people in my life take some time and reflect on our relationship and what's in these books and in part what's in our hearts and somehow express those thoughts and feelings in words.
In case you haven't put two and two together I'm asking if you would consider writing the Foreword for Volume 1, the case studies book. You were there at the very beginning Lisa and were an inspiration to me for those eight years at Heartland, the years covered in this book. You were my first client and even then stood up for me. You have never let me down.
I have never kept this a secret, I have always strove to maintain myself and my business with the dignity and integrity I learned from you, from how you treat your employees to how you treat your land, animals and reputation. In no small way I have also learned forgiveness, understanding and love from you, clearly we had our moments. I can't imagine anyone who would honor me more in writing this than you Lisa.
Well, that's it, if you agree there is a sheet attached to this letter that outlines what the publisher needs on their end and yes, it will be checked by a pro and any changes run by you before they're made. In case you're wondering Bert is writing the Foreword to volume 2, he's been with me since almost the very beginning in all things
Pegasus and is a true professional partner in every sense of the word. These books would never have been written without Bert's support. Feel free to call and talk or say no, I can't imagine what I would write about myself.
Love always,
Amy"
Ty opened his eyes and stretched, Friday, an easy day for him and then overnight for the glass studio opening. While he was stretching Amy turned and crawled sleepily onto him. "Why are you moving, easy day today ?"
"I had to stretch Ames, I'm sorry." He said lowering his arms around her.
"That's better." She whispered kissing his chest.
They lay quietly in each other's arms and dozed. Betty went by a short while later, then the unmistakable rumble of the Jackson express before they headed off to shower.
They came down dressed for their mornings, Ty in scrubs for morning rounds and Amy out to breeze horses. They were set to leave by two. Ty got coffee, kissed Jackson and Betty and walked over to the window to look at the Jag, true it was under a fitted tarp but still, there it was.
"Stop looking at it Ty, it's weird." Betty said laughing "come eat son, it won't move, I promise."
It was delivered at 5:00 the night before. After dinner Ty took Amy for ice cream, it was surreal, way different than the Porsche, that was tight and built for speed first and luxury second, the Porsche kept you safe and secure, sort of hugged you tight but the Jag was a sultry caress, butter soft, sensuous was the word Amy used. It absolutely flew and hugged the road as it did, the shocks and construction made the ride flawless even on country roads. The engine purred at idle and stepping on the gas was breathtaking. Powers had found a brand new XJ just off the line with a new 5.0 Liter V8 Supercharged engine, 575 Horsepower and a top speed of 181 miles per hour. This engine drove the price of the car an additional $23,000 over the car they had chosen at the beginning of the week and even had it's own designation XJR575 and not the XJ50 they had asked for.
"I think maybe we can get the more toned down engine Ames, this thing is a beast."
"I was thinking that myself but I've never been more comfortable in a car in my life Ty and the sound system is pretty off the wall."
At the ice cream shop, a steady stream of people eased over to peek at the car as they walked arm in arm to the counter or actually the line to the counter. The college crowd was back in town and Ty marveled at the difference. Hudson was a pretty sleepy place and though Ithaca was obviously larger it was pretty laid back just two weeks in the past. The streets were full of energy tonight and Ty was stunned at the sheer volume of 20 something's on the street.
There was no room at the tables so they walked back to the car and Ty lifted Amy onto the rear fender and then leaned against it next to her while they ate their ice cream.
Amy noticed a group of coeds all wearing Greek designations peeking over from a table nearby. A blonde turned around "welcome to Cornell Dr. Borden." She called out as the twittering at the table increased and several phones turned for pictures.
"Be nice Ty." Amy whispered and Ty smiled and raised his cone to his fans flashing his signature smile. He shook his head and then turned to Amy, leaned over and kissed her lightly. Amy reached up with her free hand and placed it against his cheek, prolonging the gentle kiss a few moments longer. The whole table was staring when they moved apart and went back to their ice cream.
"Is it serious ?" A brunette from the same table asked.
"Well Dr. Borden ?" Amy asked finishing her cone and taking a sip of her bottle of water.
"Well what ?"
"Answer the young woman." Amy prodded "perhaps a visual, come here you."
Ty turned and stood in front of her "are we really going to do this ?"
"Bet it makes it online by morning." She whispered pulling him closer by his leather jacket until their lips touched and Amy drew him in against her. When she wrapped her booted legs around him and pulled off her hat the catcalls started followed by the crowd chanting BIG RED ! BIG RED !, the Cornell fight cheer.
"We done ?" Ty asked on the tail end of a deep breath.
"I think we're good." She answered, "let's go home Ty."
He helped her in and closed the door, while passing in front of the car and smiling impishly at her he reached his door and looked at the table of sorority coeds and smiled. The crowd silenced a second when he started up the Jag and when it returned to idle he drove it out of the lot at the prescribed 5 miles per hour, his foot off the accelerator and on the brake the whole way through. Several people turned when he hit the gas pulling out onto the street.
Back in the present, Ty sat down at the table next to Jackson who looked up and smiled.
"What Jackson ?"
"It's nice to get new things, makes you feel special."
"It is but I don't think we're keeping this one, one just like it though I think."
"That's Ok, we've exchanged stuff, rods, reels, mom exchanged her truck twice."
"That's enough Jackson get done and to your chores please, Ty breakfast ?" Betty asked
"What are you having ?" He asked Amy.
"Yogurt, fruit and granola as soon as I get up" she answered with a smile.
This had become their routine and Amy watched sidelong as Ty walked to the fridge and started pulling out breakfast. He took care of it all, gathered plates, the yogurts and brought it to the table with all the fixings and a coffee refill. It also always came with his sweet kiss. She would clean up after. During fall she'd switch to oatmeal and wondered if Ty would make it.
The girls came in as they were eating. JT had left to get changed for chores.
"We're done, they're all in the back meadow, quite the crowd. Chuck promised to get them in later."
"I know Mad, it's hard on him, we're interviewing hands, I'll tell Bryce to get two." Amy said.
"I'll find out if there's a time frame for that barn addition." Ty said. "I'm kind of new around here but maybe we try to halt the collection of personal horses for a while until we're settled."
"That's a good idea" Charlie said.
"How are the new ones ?" Amy asked.
"Pitch and Black are awesome horses, they eat like jumpers." Maddie said grabbing Amy's empty bowl and filling it with yogurt.
"You wash it." Amy said looking at her.
"You dirtied it, I'm just recycling."
"I've got rounds, girls say goodbye and good luck though I'm sure you'll do great."
"Have fun later and keep her in check, no glass coffins for Halloween." Maddie said reaching up to kiss him.
"No Santa's either." Charlie added "Enjoy yourselves."
"I'll walk with you Ty" Amy said getting up and taking her turn hugging and kissing the girls. "Call me when you're done please."
"We will, that's it ?"
"You're with Trish Mad, that's it, she'll keep the stupid to a minimum."
"I have to get to the track, I'll see you two tomorrow. Betty you'll be around ?"
"Still have Jackson to watch over. Erma's coming with April when they're done."
"Then I will hug you later Gran. Make sure they clean up."
While Ty and Bert did rounds and then headed out to the thoroughbred stables to vet the next set of horses destined for the West Coast or the South Amy, Tappy and Carlos field tested the horses getting shipped out Monday. While Cloister and Prince had been shipped out a week ago, six of the sixteen going Saturday morning were also John's and Tappy and Carlos were going along for the ride.
She was sorry to see them go, not the horses, most of whom would be back but her friends Tappy and Carlos. Amy felt close to them with a bond many people would never understand because they would never give a horse his head at 70 miles an hour, no brakes, no off button and no way to stop a 1200 pound horse any slower than it took. They joked that it took a very special kind of crazy to be in their club, all jockeys did.
Amy hugged and kissed each and wished them success and prayed that they stayed safe. They each promised that they would be back for the wedding as she mounted Spartan and headed back to the ranch house.
Amy kicked off her boots and laid her hat on the kitchen table. She grabbed a bottle of water and pulled over the stack of rubber banded mail that sat on the table.
After sorting it into stacks and dumping the junk into the recycle hopper she pulled out her knife and carefully opened her mail. She had just gone through and sorted her stuff when Betty joined her followed moments later by Jackson.
"Hey mom."
"Hello sweetheart, what will you and April be doing ?"
"Ride, maybe we can bring sandwiches. Cars can't come until later, he's got dentist with Bobby."
"Sally mentioned it, April's staying over ?"
"Yup."
"Good, Betty this is Sandy's stack, and Bridge's stack." Amy said handing her mail off to Betty. "I've got mine."
"Where are Nick and Claire staying ? No kids right ?"
"No, the kids have school, Claire's folks will be there."
"Give them the small guest room in the house on the first floor across from Lisa and Grandpa, it's nice for a couple. Put Katie in with the girls and Lou in the room next to them. Put Lilly in the room next to ours and Dad and Casey in the open loft."
"And the Hershbergs are now arriving Monday, without an aide unless they absolutely need one."
"Right, Rachel's sweet and farm stock. She doesn't want a fuss. If they find the need for help they'll ask. Eli is starting to get around on crutches."
"And Jeff ?"
"Seems to be fitting right in, helping Chuck out and having a grand time."
On Tuesday morning, since Ty was accompanying Jackson to the bus and the girls would make it on their own, Amy kissed and hugged them, off to their first day of school in the shortened week and walked Jeff Bicks to the family barn to fetch Spartan and then to Medical to fetch Carter.
"No saddle Amy ?"
"Not for a light trail ride, this is fine for Spartan and I, do you always ride saddled ?"
"I guess, Carter doesn't live with me, technically he's not even mine. I see him at the police stables all day where all our riding is saddled."
"So you can't say, take him home with you for the weekend, if you had the wherewithal of course, like a barn."
"I've never heard of it no."
"So this must be a treat for you two ?"
"I guess, hadn't thought about it that way."
"What happens to them when they retire ?"
"Usually adopted, they're excellent family horses, very calm with kids and strangers."
"They'd be perfect for us but if you find good family homes for them that's great."
"Perfect for what ?"
"Pegasus Centers, para horses of a sort, for troubled or challenged kids, adults, excellent companion animals."
"That's right I read about them. Ours would probably be pretty perfect. I could ask into it."
"Don't bother, we've no shortage, but rather than put to pasture most horses prefer contact and a job. How about you Jeff, any questions ?"
"The twins have 10 horses ?"
"Don't remind me." Amy said laughing "I guess it's the nature of the beast, Jackson's got 3, Georgie 4."
"The girls have regular ranch horses, two open hunters, two arena jumpers, 2 liberty horses and the newest gift from my dad and his wife, 2 barrel racers."
"I helped Chuck and the girls this morning."
"We're hiring two hands for the main complex."
"And building an addition to the barn, he's pretty psyched."
"Yeah, he is, so tell me about Robert or Eli and family, your choice."
"Eli first." Jeff said as he gawked at the herd of alpaca in the distance.
While giving Jeff the almost grand tour abbreviated for time Amy who had spoken to Rachel briefly and liked her learned that Eli Hershberg and his wife Rachel were a pretty down to earth couple. They had chosen the setup of living in somewhat close quarters so they could save for their dream, a few acres that they could call home. While Eli's parents were state employees who lived in Clifton Park, a suburb of Albany, Rachel's family were from the North Country west of Plattsburgh along the Canadian border and though they lived in town, Rachel's grandparents had a small farm where Rachel's heart always lay and Eli loved the idea.
They met in college, at the State University in Albany where Rachel earned an elementary education teachers license. Eli studied criminal justice and entered the Albany-Capital Police Academy straight out of school. Rachel taught for a few years, Zachary wasn't planned but they never considered him a surprise and from what Amy had heard from Rachel and now from Jeff, he was a bright, well loved kid. Rachel had stopped working when he was born and switched to private tutoring so she could be home with him.
Even growing up a "city" kid, Eli was fortunate because his parents loved horses and they owned two that they stabled at a boarding facility not far from their home. Weekends the family which included Eli's younger sister would ride trails on their two horses and two borrowed from the stables for the day.
"They'll love it here" Jeff said as they turned past the thoroughbred stables which once again had Jeff ogling, his last ogle being the track which was being harrowed and tamped.
"I hope they'll be comfortable." Amy said. "So Robert ?"
"Ty first, I know that's complicated but maybe some highlights ?" Jeff asked.
"Hmmm" Amy murmured "I guess that's fair, the shortened version though."
"Perfect."
She gave him the shortened version, she was honest as she knew Ty would want and told him that Ty had come to Heartland as a juvenile probie but didn't go into details. She didn't go into much detail of the next years either, just her work and an up and down teenage relationship which just got him nodding in understanding, we've all been there.
She described the break as she saw it, they just weren't ready, unsure of each other and what they wanted in the future and split. When they finally got back together they just clicked and both decided that their lives were always meant to be shared and here they sat.
"So the attachment between Ty and your kids happened that fast ?"
"Well, I don't know if it's always like that. My kids have been through this before. Could be they've adapted to the process and see it differently. Jackson's constructed a psychological profile in his head that his biological father was never his dad. I'm the only parent he's ever had and butch as I am, I'm not a dad. Ty makes a dashing Dad for a young boy like Jackson don't you think ?"
"And the girls ?"
"Again, it may just be an adaptation plus there's safety in numbers, to Mad and Charlie, as long as they have each other, they're good. They remember their dad, Ty's a good listener and a good hugger and thoughtful and loving and they've missed that in their lives. Betty whether by design for the kids sake or on her own and I think it's the latter decided that she likes him, that helps, Gran has always been a part of their lives. She's Mitch's mom, their father."
"Sounds nice."
"And Robert ?"
Jeff smiled and laughed "Ok, Ok". He told her that they had met about 4 years earlier at a party thrown by friends. They were both out for the most part but Robert clearly did not make an issue about his sexuality at work. His crew of course knew Jeff, but at work sites it wasn't discussed.
"Are you Ok with that ?"
"Well, yeah, it doesn't really affect me truthfully, I don't often show up at his job sites which move around and generally I'm with a horse. I pick him up at the office and their work yard, the crew knows who I am."
"So he's coming next weekend ?"
"He is and I'm heading back this weekend, both horses seem very calm with Sarah and Chuck so far. I wouldn't have but Eli won't be here so I'll be back Sunday."
"So you asking about the kids ?"
Jeff sighed "I'd love a kid, a house, some horses."
"And Robert."
"Goes without saying, he feels the same way, anyway, we've talked about it and now with this Eli thing, there but for the grace you know. Anyway, Robert pretty much said he doesn't want to do this anymore so we'll talk."
"And invite me to the wedding ?"
"My mom didn't raise no fool Amy, you always invite the rich horse woman and the rich vet."
"That, is a good policy."
It was an interesting week for Ty, he switched off with Bert on Pegasus duties and spent time with him in a new environment, vet school. Aside from the meetings with the exotic animals chair about VWB he was going through two lectures worth of material both with and without Bert and sometimes with Katie and Barb who'd been watching Bert lecture for two years.
Wednesday morning Amy was getting ready for her first practical of the year with the Equine group. She was at her desk with a cup of coffee and going through her notes. It was more a reminder, she's done this lecture at least half a dozen times and the general appearance of a horse and the basics of equine care and anatomy were as familiar to her as the recipe for oatmeal.
"Horses are ready Amy." Georgie said popping her head in.
"Have a cup of coffee and relax Georgie, what do you have after this ?"
"Ophthalmology next and Neuro class and practical after lunch. Late rounds then books."
Amy who usually kept her door open when she was inside and "free" looked up as the soft knock on the open door came.
"Professor ?"
Amy smiled and thought for a second, "Dr. Cleary isn't it ?"
"Yes ma'am."
"Good morning Robert."
"Good morning Georgie."
"How can we help ?" Amy asked.
"Uhm, my horse ma'am."
"Oh that's right, your horse is in Norwood."
"Yes ma'am, I'm heading home this weekend and I was wondering if Sunday would be Ok ?"
"Sunday would be fine, do you need us to keep your trailer ?"
"Well, I made arrangements for it at a private lot but I'd rather save the money."
"It won't be a problem, he or she I guess will have to be in isolation for 48 – 72 hours, what are we talking about here Dr. Cleary ?"
"Victory Star Professor, retired thoroughbred, 12 years old, we call him Victor."
"I'm on call Sunday Amy, you can just text me when you're close Robert and I'll meet you."
"Sandra and Chuck know Georgie, just text Sandra and they'll get an isolation stall ready and set up a vet review."
"Bring his records Robert." Georgie said.
"I didn't ask about expenses or costs, fees ?"
"Do you have money for these things ?"
"Not really ma'am, but I can certainly earn his keep."
"You'll meet Chuck, Georgie can introduce you, let him know when you're free to fling a shovel."
"I will, thank you both so much for this, he's been miserable."
"And you ?"
"I miss him too Professor he doesn't understand, all right if I walk around, I have the practical next ?"
"Have a ball Dr. Cleary."
TY had spent two hours reading and reviewing videos and still photos and needed a break. He filled his travel mug with coffee and began his search for the livestock area. He hadn't really paid attention to the time and when he finally reached the familiar barn smells he was hoping to find he heard Amy speaking and without realizing that it wasn't a conversation turned the corner and accidentally kicked an empty bucket announcing his presence and stopping her lesson as the whole class turned. He looked up with that silly grin of his into a pack of vet students, Georgie, Amy and 2 horses.
Amy smiled at him "Dr. Borden, is there something you need ?"
"Uhm, no, not really."
Amy looked at the first years, "do you all know Dr. Borden ?"
"Not really Professor." One of the students said.
"Well first years this is Dr. Borden, Dr. Borden, one of three groups of first years."
Ty smiled and nodded. "Uh Ames, could I interrupt for a second ?"
Two of the girls snickered and the rest smiled. The boys all smiled.
"Sure, Georgie, you know the drill start at the tip."
Amy turned and walked past Ty to her office and waited until Ty walked past her so she could shut the door behind him.
"Is something wrong Ty ?"
"No, nothing's wrong but once I got here I wasn't sure what the rules were and I didn't check so I didn't know you had a class."
"And this ?" She asked smiling.
"I'm sorry ?"
"Well, what did you want Ty ?"
"Oh, I figured if you had some time we could get some fresh air next to a tree somewhere."
"I'm free for an hour at 12:30, we can go eat outside, my schedule is on your calendar Ty, just hit the Amy button for the overlay. What's really up ?"
Ty smiled and walked over taking her in his arms and then just kissed her. "I came for that and didn't think it out."
Amy smiled and reached up to briefly caress his cheek, her smile said I love you in spades. She took his hand and walked him out.
In full view of the class she turned again and leaned up to kiss him "12:30 my love, we'll grab a tree and eat."
Ty grinned and turned to disappear around a corner. When Amy turned every eye in the class was on her and everyone was smiling.
"Dr. Borden and I are getting married November 26th, stop gawking, it's uncomfortable and spread the word please, Georgie, what are we up to ?"
Amy texted Ty before her next section started and let him know that she had ordered lunch to be delivered to her office so would he please just meet her there. They strolled out together holding hands and found a tree not to far off, it wasn't private, more secluded than just out in the open. It was also near one of the grazing meadows the school used so they had horses, cows and the like as a view.
It was a beautiful late summer day, you could smell apples ripening in the air, a sweet smell with a mix of cut grass and late summer blooms. Amy and Ty sat quietly eating their sandwiches and after Amy shifted between his legs and into his arms, with her back against him.
"So you never did this with some handsome young grad student huh ?"
"Sorry to disappoint Ty, to me it's always been about maintaining a professional demeanor here."
"And now ?"
"And now, this is too good to resist" she said leaning back and turning her head for a quick kiss, "fiancé and husband are different."
They were not so forward as to neck in that spot but it was nice, away from Pegasus and the kids, a time for them to be by themselves. Truth be told through the years it would become their tree, passed from class to class, year after year, it became a sacrosanct spot for the school's favorite faculty couple of which there were several.
That afternoon Ty audited Amy's afternoon lecture in a much smaller lecture hall than the surgical although it seemed to fill with far more than a normal class. Georgie, Katie and Barb sat up front and Ty took a spot in a far corner. He found Amy's lecture on general feeding and care to be interesting and it moved well. He was surprised that 70 minutes had gone by when Amy asked for any general discussion questions where she was presented with questions that came from her handouts concerning nutrition, behavior, demeanor or anything really. Today they came with questions regarding Barnum, his condition and what they planned to do with him.
She knew it was coming and had it in mind when she cajoled Ty into coming and listening to the lecture.
"Well, I guess we're fortunate that Barnum's lead surgeon is sitting here with us today. Dr. Borden, care to come up and join in the fun ?"
Heads turned to see Ty's smile, he was led right into this. He rose and walked down the aisle to the steps and joined Amy who was leaning against the large desk at the front of the room.
"I'll just step over there." Amy announced, nodded to the side, then leaned over, kissed his cheek and whispered "Send up a flare if you need help."
"You owe me." He whispered back.
About 5 minutes into Ty going through Barnum's basics, his brace and immediate condition and right before he started discussing the treatment options they were considering while Barnum got stronger and his swelling and muscle tension disappeared, he glanced over and saw Amy sitting with Bert who smiled and nodded.
At one point after a 2nd "what if" question and during a third being presented Amy stood which immediately shut down the questioner "how about we not waste Dr. Borden's time with an endless stream of what if questions and work on what we know and hope for as a result, something we can actually track, there's time enough for what ifs during practical surgery and your study groups."
As this was Amy's last class of the day they were all leaving together, Georgie handed out readings and assignments, case studies and the like to the actual class, auditors, those just sitting in headed towards the doors. Amy stood to the side waiting for her, she was joined by Ty and Bert who were talking and laughing, a good sign.
"Ames ?" Ty said walking over.
"My idea, not his," she said nodding at Bert "smaller group, mostly first years, not all surgical students, relaxed questions and answers session, you did great Ty."
"Well I wasn't too thrilled with having it sprung on me but I think it did help to do it here, well, with you here and a smaller crowd."
"And me ?"
"And you too Bert, thanks and thanks for the what if stop gap Amy, I wasn't sure what to do."
"You have to shut down the first and second years or it'll become endless, you have just so much time to get from A to B Ty, you have to get there." Bert explained "it comes with practice, this was her decision but I thought it was a good idea."
"We won't do it again."
"I don't think so Ty, I knew as soon as I asked for questions Barnum would be first."
"You owe me one."
"I'm going to pay you back right now, I'll do your first solo lecture with you, we'll run through surgery, potions and rehab."
Ty blew out through pursed lips and sighed "that would be amazing Amy, it'll make all the difference."
"You have the truck Ty ?"
"Came with Georgie and a bunch of paperwork, I saw the Scout outside."
"I'll meet you home, we should get in with the kids I think."
School nights were interesting and pretty much inviolate. Ty had his first taste on Monday evening with school starting the next day. On school days, the kids got home and were given one hour with their horses and then got their homework done. Lights out was 8:30 for Jackson and 10 for the girls but they had to be in their rooms for the last hour. Amy's routine was in the room by 8, usually 7:30, once over her lectures for the next day if she had any and going over and approving various reports from, potions, rehab, training and construction which had once again begun at the surgery and proceeding at the new indoor facility.
Ty was surprised that once Amy and now he settled in the bedroom after dinner, the kids and often Betty joined them and usually knitted with the kids either finishing homework, talking about their days or just joking around. Bedtime was staged from their room and he was taken at their acceptance of him in the routine. He was also surprised that Amy hadn't mentioned it.
At one point during these evenings so far Jackson ended up on Ty's lap talking about this and that in his day, there were additions made by the girls but for the most part it was Jackson's show. The kids all joined them ready for bed in PJ's and robes or just PJ's, when it was time for Jackson's good night Amy and Ty went with him for their good nights and to see him safely to bed. Soon after the girls and Betty kissed them both goodnight, one of the three always locking the door behind them.
Amy and Ty remained by the fireplace to finish their work each night when they were left alone. They sat in two comfy leather chairs and shared a large ottoman that stretched before them. The ottoman was actually a big chest that stored blankets for the chillier nights.
"So, this chair I've been sitting in next to you has been Betty's all these years hasn't it ?"
Amy reached over and took Ty's hand lovingly and squeezed, it was a loving affirmation.
"Can we order a chair and ottoman across from us please ?, we have the room."
"I'll take care of it tomorrow sweetheart."
"Thanks, I think I'm going to lay down" he said and then leaned over to rub each of the dogs who hardly budged before he leaned over to kiss Amy and head to the bed. Since Ty had moved into the house their love making took on interesting turns. Sometimes they would make love before sleep, sometimes in the mornings and sometimes one or the other woke in the night apart from the other and the act of snuggling back together turned into quite the lustful affair.
Thursday was a late off the ranch day for them. After morning rounds Amy was free and headed to the library to get through the inevitable paperwork and Ty joined her to do a last run through of his first actual lecture on the stage with Bert. He left to Cornell earlier than she did but she promised to meet him with lunch at the same spot they had met the day before at 12:30. The lecture was at 1:45.
He was fidgety while they ate and kept reaching for his iPad which she pulled away. When they had eaten Amy turned and sat next to him by the tree and held his hand while leaning against him. She had laid her hat by her side and absently fingered it while they sat.
"You Ok ?" She whispered.
"I'm good, this helps. How do you do it, look so comfortable talking to them."
"Come on Ty, on their best day they don't know what you know, that does mean something. Just tell them what you know and watch their faces, they want to hear what you've got to say. It's not easy in the beginning, I was a wreck."
"But how do you get over it ?"
"I was a novelty when I started lecturing, several professors came to listen. In the third lecture we began talking about antibiotics versus natural healing and one of the professors took issue. It didn't get heated but I held my own, I countered his experiences with mine with the added bonus that my animal was way better prepared to fight his next infection on his own and his in fact if what we're learning about antibiotics and horses is true, was far worse off."
"And that's it ?"
"No, but when the lecture ended my class stood and applauded, that's all I needed. I teach for them and the day they stop coming is the day I'll stop teaching. They don't have to take my elective classes Ty."
"You fill that lecture hall."
"I don't want a bigger one."
"Do I get a choice ?"
"Not for surgery or ortho but exotics if you lecture that would be smaller."
"Right now I'm looking at 4 to 6 lectures that touch on giving back and reaching out, they'll focus of veterinary problem spots and what we as vets can do to make a difference."
"You might be able to find some guest lecturers for something like that, especially if it may entice one or two volunteers to the cause."
"I'll think about that, should we head back ?"
"I'll be there Ty, on your side my love."
"No crying."
"I'll certainly try."
Amy sat down in the first row of the faculty section, it wasn't as packed as it was for Bert's first but there was a nice showing and several faculty members she knew had come to show support. Loren was one and came to sit beside her.
"How's he doing ? As nervous as you were ?"
"Is that even possible ?" Amy asked laughing.
"I don't know and I've never seen anyone who had to pee so often before a lecture."
"Amy, your hat please ?" One of the professor behind her asked.
"Let him see me Pat and I'll take it off."
"Fine but do you really think he'd miss you when glancing up ?"
There was some soft laughter of agreement amongst those there. Amy looked out as the lecture hall filled. The student rows, meaning those actually in that section generally filled first. Since Katie was on the stage and working the screen prompts, Georgie and Barb handed out materials and visuals to the students all identifiable by their badges.
While not technically an Ortho problem it did involve a bone fragment and the case interesting enough for a paper, a presentation and a discussion. Apparently the crowd agreed.
"Not a bad crowd, you think they're here for Boxer or you Ty ?"
"Maybe they're here for you Bert."
"That explains it then." He said laughing "I guess I'll start."
"I'd say sticking with the plan is definitely the way to go."
The lecture went well, Ty was the lead surgeon and walked through the initial tests and results. Once discovered what they did to isolate the trouble and the surgical plan, the surgery itself and where they were now in rehab. Bert joined in at several points to add a finer explanation or suggest alternatives that were considered, and Barb who was in charge of time nodded that they were fine each step of the way.
They were scheduled for two question and clarification stops and a final question answer period during the 70 minute lecture. During the first one one of the questions dealt with the diagnosis, what caused them to consider his eyesight and the optic nerve.
Ty smiled and looked up at Amy. "Actually, we're fortunate that Professor Fleming is here, she diagnosed Boxer, care to join us Professor ?"
"Maybe later" she called down "I had a stiff neck from watching too much dressage, it was really bad and actually felt like it was affecting my vision when I turned my head. The next morning we confirmed the action and the reaction from Boxer's performance videos and then tests determined the cause. No more than a lucky set of circumstances."
"Or perhaps what we've come to expect from Professor Fleming, an adeptness in equine diagnosis that boggles the mind." Bert added quietly, of course he was miked so everyone heard it.
Amy did join them for the last question answer session since this was open and there were questions about rehab and about Barnum. Amy didn't wear one of the long white lab coats favored by faculty and students. She had a leather kit that clipped on her belt that held her tools when she had class and wore her stethoscope around her neck. Rather than a badge attached to her coat or shirt she wore hers around her neck and most of the time she wore her hat. Ty was almost sure she did it just to piss off the more conservative faculty.
She walked out smiling and waved to the audience which laughed, walked right up to Ty and kissed his cheek then turned to the audience still smiling "He did great didn't he ?" And then she clapped, which in a few moments turned into applause. She looked back at him smiling and blushing "see, it's awesome."
A moment later she walked over to the long counter that ran most of the length of the room and hopped up facing the audience which quieted when she looked up.
Some of the questions in the last session were well reasoned and thought provoking enough to explore in more depth and they ran late. All three instructors agreed to stay and finish but Loren stood from his seat and implored those that had somewhere else to be to go reminding them that the lectures were taped and available on line.
When they were done, several older students, fellows and many of the Professors who were there came over to shake Ty's hand. Amy stayed by his side smiling and nodding, Bert waited off to the side and eventually the three and Loren who had also waited walked back to Bert and Ty's office suite.
"Well Dr. Borden, an excellent first effort I'd say, very well done." Loren said when they turned to the office. "I'm looking forward to hearing you on a regular basis."
"Thanks Loren" Ty said shaking his had before closing the door.
Ty sighed and sort of melted against the door. Amy and Bert smiled and walked over. "Get your stuff together Ty, kids coming home soon."
"See you for rounds Ty." Bert said "you did good today, the next will be easier."
"Life really is this ridiculously hectic ?" He asked Amy gathering items into his backpack.
"You get into a routine which makes it easier and I or we don't have to technically be home for them, Betty's there and the girls would take care of JT but I like being there for them when I can so we try to schedule that in and I've asked Sandra that you be made a part of that whenever possible."
"You ready to go, I have to drop this off at the office." Ty said holding an envelope.
"15 minutes in the lot then, I'll swing by my office and meet you. Ty, you Ok with today ?"
"I guess, it was embarrassing for a second but I love that you're on my side. I'm Ok and it was pretty awesome."
Amy smiled and got up on her tiptoes to kiss him and then head out the door.
They pulled up behind two school buses about a half mile to Pegasus and rode behind them. When the second bus stopped at the Potter's Amy and Ty waved at August who was outside to meet April who also waved.
The twins were waiting for Jackson's bus they knew had stopped at the Potter's, they weren't aware that Amy and Ty followed behind.
Ty and Amy pulled up alongside them when the bus left. Ty took off his helmet and stuck it on Jackson's head "Come on JT, hop on."
"Ty what are you doing ?"
"C'mon mom,"
"I'll stay off the gas Ames, we'll coast."
"Go on." She laughed shaking her head.
"Those two are going to get in some trouble together." Maddie said laughing and heading down the road to the house following a hooting JT.
Thursday night's dinner was just nuclear family, Georgie and Wyatt were in town to meet his study group which turned out to be several TA's who just found it easier as a group so that everyone understood their imposed limitations. Georgie's group was still looking for a fifth and were tempted to seek another TA. They'd been approached and had to decide. Their four so far were the three Pegasus seconds and Robert Cleary who they'd all met and liked, besides, he'd be spending a lot of time at Pegasus anyway.
Jeff Bicks was at dinner at Charlie's house with Chuck who invited him to meet his dad and bowl. One of the many likes Chuck and Jeff had in common. Charlie, never one to shy away from entertaining invited Bryce and Benny as well, after all, they were racing in California and there were screens in the small bowling alley.
That evening Ty and Amy took turns testing the girls on the Canadian Motorcycle Learner's Permit Exam, their hardest part converting to metric in their heads. They were better than most because of Amy but it took them a little extra time. Amy insisted that their speedometers be dual metric/US to begin with so that helped as well.
Amy and Ty decided to keep Betty's chair a secret for now. It was due in a day or two and Amy arranged for it to be delivered to Sandra and snuck in when possible. Old Blue's rebuilt tranny and the rest were due back on Saturday and Ty left specific instructions that he be allowed to at least work on his truck just a little. He blocked out Sunday and planned to drive it to school a few days later.
Ty was in a good mood, he had a great day and Betty was quick to share a bottle of wine with him at dinner to celebrate. Left alone with a locked door Ty made his best effort of chasing a giggling Amy around the room before they collapsed on the bed laughing which ultimately became love making. Later on, the last sound heard before sleep took him was Amy giggling when he ran his hand over her waist, she was snuggled tightly against him and breathing calmly as he drifted off.
Lisa took a deep breath and closed her eyes, something she had seen Amy do multiple times over the weeks she was at Pegasus. When she opened her eyes she began
I first met Amy Fleming in 2007, 16 years ago, 8 years ago I became her grandmother when I married Jack Bartlett, her Grandpa. Amy came to me by way of my vet, Scott Cardinal when after vetting a horse I was tasked to sell, a task that was becoming more of a chore everyday. She was 15 years old, beautiful and confident, the daughter of Marion Fleming who was recently departed at the time. I'd met Marion a few times at events but knew nothing more about her than her reputation and the stories that were passed around, Marion Fleming was called a horse whisperer although Amy has always eschewed the description. Jack, my husband calls it a gift, I call it a profound understanding of horses, an intimacy that I have never seen though I have been a breeder of thoroughbreds and horse trainer for close to 50 years. The horses name was Whiskers and Amy fixed him, the first of many, she has since fixed hundreds if not thousands. Amy doesn't whisper to horses, she listens and lets them speak to her.
I've been asked to write about those first 8 years when Amy honed her craft and performed the first of many seeming miracles, healing and saving horses. This book represents a small fraction of the work I saw Amy do, they represent the worst, she was their last hope …
