Chapter 82

Ty opened his eyes and focused for a second. His head was a bit blurry from the night before but he didn't have a headache. He looked around and noted it was quiet and he was alone. Sitting up he looked around at the neat piles of clothes and the hangers and realized that Amy must have straightened up, they were in the Audubon Cottage, in the French Quarter of New Orleans and Ty distinctly remembered clothing being removed pretty haphazardly and either dropped or flung.

Pulling on a pair of loose black loungers he got up to the bathroom and a few minutes later checked out the window. He stood and stared for a minute then glanced at the outside thermometer which read 86F. Amy was laying on a chaise in a bikini her skin covered in suntan oil. "how bizarre" he thought "we dated for 8 years and I never saw her in a bathing suit."

He stood for a second then checked his clothing drawer, sure enough she had packed a pair of swimming trunks for him, nice ones actually so he changed and walked out. The smooth stones were warming but still cool enough from overnight and a second later he blocked Amy partially from the sun. She smiled before popping open one eye on the shaded side and raising her hand to help block what still got through. "Hey handsome, found your trunks I see, they ok ?"

"Oh yeah, fine, thanks." He said leaning over for a gentle kiss.

"Feeling Ok Ty "

"A touch blurry but no headache. You ?"

"I'm feeling pretty courted and wooed right now Dr. Borden. You're going to fry like that." She said handing him the bottle of lotion.

"I'm hungry and is there coffee ?"

"On it's way, lotion Ty then you can do my back so I can turn."

"You'll do my back ? "

"Yes, get your front done."

Breakfast would consist of a cheese and fruit platter a huge carafe of French roast and chicory coffee, beignets, croissant, biscuits, jam, honey, maple syrup, fresh butter and clotted cream. Considered light fare for breakfast in New Orleans and compared to Brennan's the day before, quite sparse.

Ty and Trevor watched as Amy and Stephanie hid behind the Brennan's menu. It was late for breakfast, they hadn't gotten back to the cottages before 2:30. Ty wasn't sure when they even got to sleep Friday night, Saturday morning actually.

"I'm starved" Amy said running her menu with Stephanie. They were both wearing bright colored flowered cotton dresses, their hair hadn't had much experience seeing Amy and Steph together, mostly Meg and Trish and the other moms. Steph was a legal translator and traveled when she had to.

"Ok, so the oysters and the shrimp crepe." Amy said.

"And we'll split the Turtle Soup." Steph added.

"Then I'll get an egg dish, this one Eggs Hussarde and you get that Redfish, that was great last night at the Palace and then we'll do desserts."

"Excellent." Stephanie agreed, "you two ordering ?" She asked looking up at Trev and Ty who were both sipping cocktails, Absenthe Suisse, a Brennan's specialty and guaranteed to cure what ails you.

"You're not ordering for us ?" Ty asked.

"Why would we order for you ?"

"Just seemed like a lot of food for breakfast Ames."

Amy looked at him for a second "No Ames, I didn't mean it that way."

"It's not that much food, we're ordering for two."

"I know Amy I'm sorry."

"Can't wait until I'm actually ordering for two." She muttered into the menu.

"Excellent, perhaps we can find an angry tango after we eat." Trev said softly leaning over to Ty.

"You guys are a blast to have around, you know that ?" Ty muttered back with a smirk.

Amy and Steph also ordered sides of Brennan's famous in house cured bacon, Cajun sausage, buttermilk biscuits and Cheddar grits.

Ty's attention returned to the present, Steph and Trev came out of their cottage in robes over bathing suits just as there was a knock on the large wooden door to the private courtyard. Trev walked past the group to open it for a man in a white waiters outfit who nodded and wheeled over a large cart that had large fat wheels so it glided over the cobblestones.

"Good morning folks, would you care for service ?"

"I think we'll help ourselves thank you." Trev answered with a smile. The waiter nodded and stood while Trev signed and a moment later Amy was up having motioned Ty to stay down and prepared him a cup of thick rich French Roast and Chicory, classic New Orleans coffee. Her smile was radiant and when their hands touched a loving sigh ran through them both.

Ty couldn't take his eyes off of her and she knew it "I'll make you a plate" she said and turned. He watched her lean over, the bikini almost barely an afterthought, it was some lightweight material that just held on it seemed. Dark blue, the contrast with her skin was shocking and it had a slight shimmer when she moved. From what he could see she was completely comfortable wearing it, not the Amy he remembered, maybe a result of her time in Europe or just something else she had matured into. He had noticed the girls and Jackson were also completely comfortable in their skins so to speak as were Bobby and Brin, maybe her change had something to do with the confidence that came with motherhood.

He watched her lay some fruit and cheese on a plate, some cream and an unsugared beignet next to it and laid a small ramekin of honey down and handed that to him.

"Thank you Ames."

She smiled back and turned to the cart.

Steph did the same for Trev after motioning him to sit and soon, plates balanced on raised or flattened knees, they ate and talked about the weekend. Their flight out was at 2:00 and the plan was to stop for Po Boys to eat on the way home. Until then, they'd relax at the cottages.

"This was an epic weekend." Trev said after sipping some coffee. "And I have to say, you both did yourselves proud on the dance floor."

They - had - a - blast. There was champagne waiting in the limo from Louie Armstrong Airport to the French Quarter where they were staying. After unpacking at the hotel Amy, Ty and the Margolies sat and nibbled at the raw bar brought in to the courtyard outside their rooms while they were unpacking. It wasn't huge and they did a good job on it while relaxing and hearing about the weekend plans from Steph.

"Dinner at 6:30 at the Commander's Palace, after we'll stroll and find music. Brennan's for breakfast, R'evolution for dinner tomorrow."

"Well there are two bands I'd like to hear one tomorrow afternoon and one evening." Trev mentioned and they agreed to make sure they were at both.

They took some alone time and then dressed for dinner, Ty in a dark gray suit and a white shirt and Trev similarly in a blue pinstripe, both more casual than business suits. Amy wore the blue dress she tried on the first night at home and Steph in a tight silky dark green dress slightly longer than Amy's.

There were 4 appetizers listed on the menu for the evening and they decided to order one of each. They were rich and luscious from the Louisiana gulf shrimp to the local foie gras and pork belly, presented impeccably, hot and each with a bit of a Cajun twist or bite.

They ordered two Turtle Soups, a requirement for your first time at the palace as well as a second, their famous seafood gumbo. Again, both served impeccably. Trev had chosen the wines after a brief discussion with Ty who out of habit let his eyes stray to the prices. "These are way out of my league Trev, you choose."

"I'll choose and you'll learn. We'll start with a nice crisp Chardonnay and then switch I think to a Cabernet or Zinfandel for the second half. The Chardonnay will do well to offset the creaminess of the first set of dishes without overpowering the food. The Zinfandel will provide a nice bold addition to the more hearty entrée fare. They seem to favor French and California which makes sense" and he proceeded to explain the regions and the differences between them and how the wines fare aging. Trev was an attorney, speaking one of his strengths and he loved wine, anything alcoholic actually. He took the time and Ty absorbed it.

Amy sat with Steph and looked at some of the ideas she found for gowns and what Sebastian had made of them and sent back as drawings.

"I want to be able to dance and he said leave it to him so …."

"He's amazing Amy and he knows how to dress you."

"What am I wearing ?" Ty asked.

"We'll head into the city Ty, boy's night and we've got a guy."

"A guy Trev ?"

"Bespoke suit and shirt, bottom up, Seville Row Tailors moved to Manhattan we can get shoes too, You haven't lived till they mold a shoe around your foot."

"I'm more a boot guy."

"He'll make you a boot." Trev assured him.

"Jackson needs a suit made, he'll be in a cast and a wheelchair and he fidgets when he's uncomfortable." Amy started "the girls too, I'll ask about Brin, Bobby and the kids."

"It doesn't matter, once they see John and Trish we'll be forgotten until Amy." Steph said.

"How so ?" Ty asked which prompted Steph's phone and a picture of John and Trish in their dress uniforms.

"Wow, I wonder what all that weighs ?" Ty said looking at the sheer number of medals on John's uniform. Trish looked amazing as well, gold stripes up and down her sleeve and quite the array of medals herself.

"We were in the Cornell Club last year for some event nearby and some General was walking through the lobby and stops by John to salute and shake his hand, I thought Trish would burst with pride."

"I can imagine, he seems larger than life."

"Larger than a lot of things." Amy quipped laughing.

After the soups they switched wines while they were served a pomegranate intermezzo, a small bowl of sorbet to cleanse the palate.

Trev asked that the red he had ordered be decanted at the table and Ty watched the process of the Sommelier eyeing the pour through a candle's flame to keep out any hint of bitter dregs, yeast particles that form over time. The initial pour swirled around the glass for the Sommelier to check before pouring a small sip for Trev, who passed it to Ty.

Ty inhaled and found the aroma pleasant then looked at Trev.

"Zinfandel's have a bold forward grape aroma, it should smell almost sweet."

The sommelier smiled, "now take another scenting and sip the wine allowing it to lay on your tongue for a second before swallowing and both the aroma and taste should play together."

Ty did as instructed and smiled at the sensation he'd never taken the time for.

"When you sit to a rich aromatic meal the wine is there as a separate element. The aroma and a sip clears the palate and your senses for your next bite so that the odor of the food is re-examined though both smell and taste. It slows down the meal but that's the point for a good meal, to spend the time to appreciate it and each other." The sommelier concluded. "Shall I pour ?"

"Please" Ty said with a smile and a nod.

Three goblets pretty much emptied the decanter and Trev nodded to have another decanted, this one behind the wine service bar.

They declined dessert in lieu of a cheese platter with their coffee, they had reached their richness quotient and a sugar blast was uncalled for, besides no reason not to stop somewhere along the way for a treat after a few hours dancing. The cheese was a good choice after their elaborate entree's which they had fun sharing. A double filet, Black Angus and Wagyu, Pecan Roasted Red Fish, Pink Peppercorn Crusted Duck Breast and an Apple Lacquered Texas Quail were all rich and flavorful, prepared exquisitely. When they wandered out a little after 9:00 PM they were all ready for an evening of working off the dinner and they weren't disappointed.

They started at a small club on a side street off Bourbon Street where they caught wind of a small quartet playing a nice slow Latin Jazz piece and Amy swayed her hips under Ty's hand. He smiled and immediately led them inside where he swung Amy close to him as soon as they hit the dance floor. Looking around between songs they noticed a distinctly Cuban flavor to the club which was fine for them. They danced until the group took 10 and when Trev looked up and scanned the room he found a hostess who smiled at him next to a corner booth set for four and swung a welcoming wave across.

Seated she asked them if they would prefer snack, dinner, desserts or just drinks. Ty looked over as Trev spoke briefly to the hostess in Spanish and turned when she left. We'll start with drinks and then maybe a dessert or snack before we move on.

"So drinks ?" Ty asked.

"Amy gets cranberry and soda with a lime and …"

"He's ordered the rum menu for us, strap in Ty." Steph said.

"Never did the rum thing, tequila which was never a good choice."

"Well, good tequila has it's place but it's actually a sipping liquor that's mistreated." Trev commented.

Trev looked over the menu he was handed, a single sheet listing names and descriptions, mostly in Spanish. He had glanced over at other tables while dancing and from what he can see from his table and noticed at least one bottle not available on the menu and leaned over to speak with the hostess again. She whispered back and after a few minutes and Trev handing her several bills she left.

She returned with a bottle wrapped in newspaper and three glasses, she whispered to Trev again and left him to pour.

"Ok, what are we about to drink ?" Ty asked.

"Cuban rum, Havana Club 7."

"Which is illegal in the states."

"Exactly, don't worry, I'm your attorney remember ?" He said smiling and passing a glass over to Ty. "Sip it like bourbon or rye."

Ty enjoyed the sweetness of the rum, distilled from sugar cane juice and molasses then aged for 7 years, this Havana Club represented one of the best Cuban rums available.

"So I should be able to get this in Alberta."

"I don't see why not, it's easy enough to pick up in the states, cigars too if you want. What you can't do is order it in a club like this, unless of course you can I guess," he said pouring each a second.

As the music started again Amy smiled and ran her hand gently across Ty's leg.

Trevor took Stephanie's hand and stood with her following and Amy stood with Ty right behind her, his hand immediately on her hip. She leaned back against him and he dropped his hand slightly lower as she turned and leaned up to meet his lips with hers.

They left the club half a bottle and a platter of Tostones and Chicharrones later at about 11:00 and walked for a bit. For his part Ty was steady on his feet but his hands roamed and he wanted nuzzles which made Amy giggle. They sat for a cup of coffee outside a busy club and bought two pastries from a passing cart that they split while they listened to the music and took a breather. It was a warm evening but not oppressive with the occasional breeze coming off the gulf. Ty leaned over and nuzzled at Amy's neck and then through a series of small gentle kisses on her lips.

"Well you're in a mood" Amy whispered looking up at him with a glint to her eye.

"Let's find some dance floor Fleming" he whispered back.

"Now that's a very good idea Ty." She whispered now standing in his arms "let's dance."

Walking down Bourbon Street arm and arm, Amy and Ty in front of the Margolies the first strains of a Merengue came through the doors of a club open to the street and Amy broke away and turned towards Ty and began moving suggestively to the music, Ty watched her close her eyes and raise her hands over her head, her body swaying to the music. Her hair sparkled in the street lamps and the blue dress clung to her body as her hips swayed. When she turned he watched her for a second more and moved a step up wrapping his arms around her and taking one hand spinning her back to face him, she was breathing hard and being pulled in so close to him didn't help.

"So this looks good" Steph said watching her and smiling lead them and Trev into the hot club. This was not the club they had left, this crowd was more hard core, while the other club was a Latin Jazz club this wasn't. It was hot, more crowded, the music was louder and distinctively different, Dominican, Bachata and Merengue music, sexier, more sensual.

Several dances into the night they needed a breather and found a table.

"Water Trev, get some nibbles." Amy said leaning over.

"Yes ma'am" he said as Steph and her headed off to the ladies room.

Amy was fixing her hair and pulled out her lipstick when Steph joined her at the sink.

"Do you know how hot you are in that outfit and how he looks at you ?" Steph asked looking at her in the mirror.

"Yes and yes" she answered with a smile, "I'm lost in him Steph."

"No so bad a place to be sweetheart. I'm sorry I haven't been around much lately, when this case ends I'm going to slow down, I miss home and Trev."

"It'll be good to have you back Steph, we all understand."

"I know, but I love that we did this, Trish, Megs, everyone's mentioned how happy you were, it's nice to see up close."

"You're pretty hot yourself for an old broad you know ?" Amy smirked with a sideways glance.

"I'm keeping it together, I've got some game left."

They joined the men back at the table. Their chairs were close and Ty had his arm around Amy and they kissed softly when the band got back to the stage. In the morning Amy couldn't quite remember a moment where Ty had not been in contact with her. The band was very good and several musicians and singers stopped by to join the music. The foursome called it quits a little after 2:00 AM and since it had cooled a little decided to stroll back to the cottages.

Ty politely declined a night cap with Trev and very quickly had his arms around Amy's waist with her back pressed up against him as he kissed along her neck. Amy sighed and reached back to his thigh.

"Where's the zipper on this thing" he whispered as his hand ran up her thigh and under her dress.

"Left side" she gasped dragging his hand to the zipper.

Amy turned when her dress dropped to the floor and Ty got a glimpse of her before her lips joined his and she started unbuttoning his shirt as he pushed his jacket off. They backed to the bed and Amy pushed herself back. She wore a black strapless corset bodysuit with garters snapped to black lace stockings. When Ty leaned forward she reached out and pulled him into her arms and moaned as his hands reached along her body and his lips found her neck.

"Amy' how do you ?" He questioned."

"There are snaps Ty" she whispered with a giggle.

"Snaps, that's brilliant" he muttered to himself.

Amy opened her eyes to the somewhat sun kissed room and smiled as Ty nibbled his way across her shoulder and then started down her back.

"What time is it ?" She moaned turning on her back with a sigh at his urging.

"8:30, Steph texted 11:00 reservation for breakfast."

"Ok" she whispered as Ty's lips traced her body.

Amy wore an amazingly fitted yellow floral dress with short boots. Ty wore a blue blazer over dark grey Ariats and boots. A crisp white shirt filled it out. They met in the courtyard and took a carriage down to the restaurant. It was a beautiful sunny day, warm, in the low 80's but not terribly humid. Trev's band, a young group from Mexico City suggested by their son Manny who combined classic rock with a Latin beat were scheduled at 1:00 and they strolled over from Brennan's.

The club was light as it was still early. Ty, Amy and Steph stuck to juice and water while Trev ordered a beer. They enjoyed their time, the dance somewhat different made no matter to either couple just happy to be in each other's presence. They switched partners once or twice and spend a good time listening and relaxing in each other's company at the table. The band got off at 3:00 and they headed back to relax for a little at the hotel until dinner and the night's activity which Trev promised would be amazing. A 12 piece band from Rio who he said were amazing.

Back in their rooms and the air conditioning Amy and Ty made love and took a nap. They were up and showering for the evening at 5:30 and met Trev and Steph on the patio at 6:30 for their 7:00 reservation at Restaurant R'evolution the current sensation amongst the food crowd in New Orleans. Unlike the Commander's Palace or Brennan's this place was new, modern and distinctly romantic.

This time the men just deferred to the lady's ordering and stuck to the choice of wines. After discussing choices Ty chose a Pinot Grigio for the soup, salads and apps and a California Merlot for the entrée's, Trev agreed with both.

They started with a table terrine of Death by Gumbo, followed by a large Crispy Cajun Fried Oyster Salad and a Caviar staircase of six different caviars with traditional accompaniments. As Entrée's they shared a Creole Cioppino featuring andouille sausage, gulf shrimp and roasted red fish, a 24 oz roasted Venison Chop, A trio of duck breast and a Platter of roasted marrow and flame grilled veggies.

They again opted for a cheese platter with their coffee and strolled to their ultimate stop for the evening where this time Trev had a reservation.

Ty, Trev and Steph ordered Sazerác at the waiters suggestion, a traditional New Orleans concoction of Rye, Bitters and Absinthé which was somewhat like a Manhattan with a licorice note.

As Trev promised the band was lively, Merengue and Salsa driven and the couples had a ball. Amy flirted with Ty unashamedly and Steph followed her lead with Trev. Amy wore a tight red and black cocktail dress with squared shoulders and short sleeves, black stockings and red sling back shoes. Steph was stunning in black and white.

"Where next ? " Steph asked breaking both Ty and Amy out of their memories from the weekend and bringing them back to the courtyard on a sunny Sunday morning.

"Rochester, Jackson and I decided on the sky show at the planetarium for my birthday. Charlie booked it for us."

"Rochester ? Really ?" Amy asked laughing. "On your birthday, dinner anywhere ?"

"Charlie has a place he mentioned, some castle in Geneva "

"Belhurst, nice place" Steph said "Amy you've been."

"I have a few times and it is nice, I approve Dr. Borden, why not ? "

"Miami, South Beach, one weekend in the winter, outstanding music and some of the best seafood in the world." Trev said.

"Talk to Bridget before booking anything Trev."

"I start my days with a session of ask Bridget Amy."

"We all start our days that way Trev" Amy said laughing.

The flight attendants insisted on taking their carry-on sandwiches and serving them properly. Trev was on the phone all through boarding, talking to Tom Amy thought but he kept turning to the side so she couldn't make it out.

He hung up as the door closed and the attendant turned to him.

"That was Tom Carmichael, closing in Ithaca on Wednesday the 12th, nice birthday gift for you Ty." Trev said buckling in and simultaneously ordering a beer with a nod and a gesture.

"Beer Ty ?" Trev asked and then signaled two without really waiting for a response, "Oh and you have the triplex in the city starting November 1st."

"We can do the closing at the house in the library Trev, I'll call Ruth to stay with us."

"So I assume this will go smoothly ? Steph asked with a smile "I hear you two are bff's now, chumming with a Pierrepont."

"Yeah, she's awesome and looking forward to seeing what I do with the place. She built the home because it was her husband's dream, I'd like it to remain a part of her life. Old school money Steph it's not worth more but when you meet it, it's pretty amazing."

Everyone settled in after their sandwiches, there was a stop in Chicago before Syracuse and they all lay back for well deserved naps. Amy was restless and couldn't sleep and made a mental note to contact the Kennedy Restoration company about having that saloon room looked at and having the fishing shop parts installed. She'd let them know to coordinate their visit with Jonathan.

Amy's thoughts turned to Ruth when thinking about the house. Wednesday morning they had sat and had coffee in the library while Amy showed some off some of her glass pieces. She was passionate about glass work and as such spoke passionately about her collection.

"What's that look Ruth ?"

"Regret, I never became passionate about something just for the pleasure of seeing it. The beauty in these pieces excites you Amy, they bring you joy."

"I've looked at some of your conservation and reclamation projects on line Ruth, you surely have a passion. They are in themselves each a work of art and beauty."

Ruth smiled and stood "Let's ride and take care of business, I think Louis is coming for dinner with the family, I should think about getting back."

Amy rode Spartan and saddled Merlin for Ruth. She was happy to see that after a leg up Ruth sat well and comfortably and it was obvious she had spent some time on a horse.

"We all rode, Poppa insisted, he loved it, the fresh air and all. I had a grey quarter horse named Steel. He was a good friend."

"Maybe you should get another."

"Please don't just send me a horse Amy, if I want one I'll ask."

"I'd have to send a barn first which I've learned is a dead giveaway." Amy muttered low but hearable which made Ruth chuckle.

They rode towards the hill and the valley meadow where the Alpacas were grazing and calling home these days. Their cows were in also and Amy stopped to answer questions before they rode down for a closer view.

"Pretty docile group." Ruth said looking down at the now short haired silly looking creatures.

"I can't decide when they're most adorable, Short hair or long. They'll thicken up through the fall and over winter."

"Was it hard switching from cattle to Alpaca ?"

"I was never part of the cattle operation though it's always all hands when something has to be done but the truth is a herd is a herd and Alpacas are easier than most, and you don't eat them."

Amy headed off onto a long winding trail to the rescue center. "This is all preserve that we keep for the state." Amy said as they rode quietly through "tell me about the house Ruth."

"It was Donald's dream to just live there amongst thousands of untouched acres. He passed way too young Amy, mining is hell on the body and apparently he had a slight arterial defect. I don't know why I kept up planning it and then one day did it. Donald picked the spot, an enormous outcropping of granite. He brought me one day and we pitched a tent and watched the sunset and the sunrise in the morning. That deck outside the kitchen is that view. We chose the bedroom patio for the privacy but that view is spectacular as well. The house was designed around the views and the house and windows placed to reflect the colors of the season. It's the most serene place in the winter Amy, in the right light under snow it fairly disappears from view. It explodes in colors the rest of the seasons from the blooms of spring to the fall colors."

"At night it lights up like a star in the wilderness, cheery, warm and welcoming, I love it at night as much as during the day."

"I love it too Ruth, Ty, the kids and Betty were in heaven."

As they rode down the lane leading to the rescue center Ruth was telling Amy about what she imagined for the rooms and how she came to decide on the geothermal well and solar panels.

"I really love the house and the area but the kids are busy and though they love being outdoors are not terribly outdoorsy. Looks like we're here" Ruth said as Amy dropped off Spartan and stood to help Ruth dismount and lead the horses into a paddock as Cassidy walked forward from where she was sitting looking at her big birds next to one of the large netted enclosures. After a hug from Amy and an introduction the next 30 minutes were spent looking at the birds and assorted other enclosures while Cassidy explained and answered Ruth's questions.

They were sitting at one of the large enclosures and Cassidy was pointing out a feature on a bald eagle that was resting in a tree when Robert Cleary turned the corner carrying a red tailed hawk that was bandaged around one wing. The hawk was occupied nibbling at a button on Dr. Cleary's shirt sleeve while resting on his arm.

"I'm sorry Professor, I didn't realize I'd be interrupting."

"That's fine Dr. Cleary, vet work comes first." Amy said with a smile.

Cassidy stood and checked the bird and the bandaging "That's a good job Robert, well done, need help getting him settled ?"

"No ma'am, he seems pretty happy."

"Dr. Robert Cleary this is Ruth Spelts, she hails from your neck of the woods. Robert is from Norwood Ruth."

"Cleary, your family are dairy farmers ?"

"Yes ma'am, I think my Grandpa went to school with you, you were a Pierrepont then. He talks about parties at the big house when we drive through Potsdam."

"William Cleary from St. Mary's, what a small world. Is he still with us ?"

"Yes ma'am, still helping out."

"Well, it's good to meet you Dr. Cleary, is this to be your focus ? We could use a wildlife rescue in our neck of the woods."

"I haven't decided yet, I do enjoy the more exotic work though, the birds especially, but I love large animal work as well."

"Well, come see me in a few years if you decide the North Country is where you'd like to hang your shingle, that's a beautiful bird Robert."

"Uh, yes ma'am, on the mend."

As he turned the corner Amy turned to Cassidy "how's that going ?"

"He's got the patience and dexterity for avian work, he listens and I love that, why ?"

"He seems to fit around here. You want him ? "

"You mean hire him ?"

"That's what I mean."

Cassidy thought for a few seconds "I'll run it past Alex, in what capacity ?"

"First decide and then we'll fill in the blanks." Amy stopped and looked at Ruth "Maybe we can send a large animal and rescue vet back to the North Country."

Cassidy looked at the other women and smiled "let me run it by Alex."

"Well, we have more to see and you have work to do Cass." Amy said standing.

"It was nice visiting Amy." Cass said walking them to the paddock and holding for Amy, then giving Ruth a leg up. "Good meeting you Ruth."

"Roping me into your plans Amy ?" Ruth asked turning Merlin to follow Amy and Spartan.

"Not like you didn't throw out a line Ruth." Amy laughed. "You won't be free of me any time soon."

"Kind of what I was hoping" she answered with a smile "where to now ?"

"Let's go visit Erma, you missed each other yesterday, the Potters are our neighbors."

"Brown Swiss cows and that marvelous cheese."

"Come on, I'll ride you past the herd and you can marvel at their beauty."

"I can't wait." Ruth chuckled.

Amy led Ruth through two meadows from the edge of the preserve and through a gate that led past the small chapel where she turned them towards the house and the herd.

"That's a chapel ?"

"Non denominational, Erma does weddings, she's quite well known in the area. The farm itself is a historical landmark that's been in their families since before the revolution. Their daughter's Kim and April are the ninth generation to be born on this land."

"You don't say, certainly not unheard of in Central NY, but it's good to hear some of these roots remain, working the land all that time."

"Amen to that, I love the history tied to this place" Amy said "My family came to Heartland in the Alberta foothills in 1857 and we're babies compared to here."

"You've spent time in Europe Amy."

"I have, traveled worked and lived in Belgium actually but it's not the same to me, somehow history is more palpable here, more colorful, immediate, I can't explain it."

"No I get it, it's up close and in your face here, we find musket balls and canon balls to this day."

"Around here too. Here they are, aren't they gorgeous ?" Amy cooed pulling up to look at the edge of the Potter's herd.

"They do shine, don't they ?" Ruth said shielding her eyes from the sun.

"That high fat content runs through the animal, they're very soft."

"If you say so. Why are those separate ?"

"I would guess those are confirmed pregnant or suspected, Just separated for vetting and making sure they don't get bothered by the bull."

They rode up past Erma's creaming shed and found her lifting a bucket and pouring it into a small stainless steel separator. She was dressed in blue coveralls and wore a bright blue do rag on her head. She turned and looking up smiled broadly "hey sis, what's up ?"

"Out for a ride and I wanted you two to meet."

"Fun, go take care of your horses. August is in the barn and I'll just rinse these buckets and be along in a second, blueberry scones cooling inside. He has Kimmie can you grab her please ?"

"Sure thing."

Amy got a big hug from August who grabbed the horses and shooed her away after shaking hands with Mrs. Spelts.

"I've got them Amy."

"Are the pen cows confirmed August ?"

"As far as I'm concerned, Ty's coming by next week and we'll make it official and check bloodwork. Got my eye on 4 others."

"That bull's paying off."

"Looks that way."

"Well if you want to let 'em roam throw them on my side, talk to Chuck, we'll close off a meadow and send some Alpaca."

"Let's get' em vetted and see where we're at, we may get some stragglers."

Amy bent over the small wooden pen where Kimmie played when in the barn and the small girl reached up. "Come on Kimmie, momma wants you inside and you need a change."

"Thanks Amy." August said kissing Kimmie's head.

Ruth followed Amy around to the house. Amy stopped and kicked off her boots easily and with practiced experience "you can just wipe you feet Ruth I have to run up and change her."

Inside Amy pointed to the kitchen table and asked her to make herself comfortable.

"Go ahead Amy, I'll be fine, look at her, she's so sweet." Ruth said smiling at Kimmie who smiled right back.

Amy returned a few minutes later with a fully changed and smiling wobbly toddler who she let down and steadied so she could waddle over to mom who scooped her up.

"Anyway Ruth this is the first press, August uses this to ferment hard. It's a more sour mix because he adds sugar to feed the fermentation process. It's nice cold with something sweet like those scones. Should we frost those or a sweet cream ?"

"Cream is fine for me" Amy said sitting and laying her hat down.

Kim toddled over to Ruth and looked up. She was lifted onto the older woman's knee a second later.

"Wa ?" Kimmie asked.

Ruth looked over to Erma who was already handing her a bottle which she immediately handed to Kimmie.

"So, are we done ?" Erma asked looking back and forth.

"Well, no actually." Amy said.

Ruth smiled and reached into her shirt pocket. She looked up at Amy and deep into her eyes before sliding a folded paper across the table to her.

Amy reached over and opened it, looked down, refolded it, dropped it into her pocket and reached out her hand which was promptly taken. A distinctive click sounded as Erma captured the moment Ruth surrounded Amy's hand with both hers and smiled. "Excellent !" She affirmed.

"Ty first Erma." Amy said looking across at Ruth. "You're always welcome Ruth, I'll let Jonathan know. Alright if I have some work started ?"

"It's all yours Amy, I'll love seeing it full of kids, I've always thought of it that way."

"Then we'll make that happen and Erma, add Ruth Pierrepont Spelts and guest to our hold the dates please."

"My pleasure, so how about my cows huh, I'm hoping for a dozen, that'll be maybe 5 bulls to sell."

"Looks like you're at a dozen now according to August."

"I know, I really want like 15 but I don't want to push that whole karma thing."

Ruth tasted a bite of scone and some cider and that started a lively conversation on the intricacies of mixing apples, what mead actually was and how you make vegan honey from apple juice.

They sat laughing and discussing men, farming, weddings and whatever came up until the texts on Amy's phone built to a crescendo of continuous beeps and ring tones.

"I think it's time to get back and we should get you on the road home Ruth, I don't want you to have to rush to get home before dark."

"It's only 3 ½ hours Amy, I'll be fine."

"I know and it's closer to 4 and you'll stop at least once. Come home and have lunch."

Erma walked over and gently took Kimmie who had fallen asleep on Ruth's lap after her snack of cut up apple and some milk, she had stayed with Ruth the whole time and was perfectly content with the arrangement.

Erma popped her into the playpen set up in the living room and returned to walk Amy and Ruth out to the barn where August had tied off the horses near water and hay.

"Well, I had a great time." Erma said hugging Ruth and then Amy. "I hope we get to do this again soon."

Ruth smiled, she liked Erma and Amy's description was spot on, born and bred to the land. A capable, competent and strong woman, Ruth was impressed as she was with Amy and the rest of Amy's friends she had met.

"I'm glad that house stuff is past us." Amy said as they rode out of the path between the two farms.

"I'm satisfied." Ruth agreed.

"You'd better be, we have a deal." Amy answered as she turned with a smile.

"I'll have my people contact Mr. Carmichael."

Chuck and Ty greeted them at the family barn.

"It's done ?" Ty whispered as he helped her down and into his arms as Chuck gave Ruth a steadying hand.

Amy leaned up and caught his lips gently, "done my love."

Amy sent Chuck to get on with his chores leaving the three to brush down and mash the horses.

"Georgie can't make it back from Cornell Ruth, she wanted to be here to see you off." Ty said as they walked back.

"That's fine Ty, I've caused enough of a disruption."

"You haven't been a bother at all so stop" Amy answered taking her arm to walk up the porch steps where Betty sat with Charlie.

"I'll just go wash up and pack the last of my things." Ruth said seeing the anxious expressions on everyone's face.

"Thank you Ruth, we'll have lunch in a half hour." Amy said watching her go.

"So ?" Betty asked.

"5.7 all in."

"I'll let Tom know" Charlie said "that's a fair price Amy."

"It was hers Charlie, she was here for the handshake."

"I figured that's what this was."

"Staying for lunch ?"

"Going for a ride and talk with Chuck and some sandwiches as soon as he's ready."

"Good for you Charlie."

They sat to lunch of leftover Mediterranean fare which was fine for them all. Sandra joined them after stopping in to speak with Amy. She'd stay and finish up with her in the library once Ruth was on the road. Ty would head into Cornell.

Ty was first to wish Ruth goodbye and get in return a heartfelt hug followed by one for Betty. Amy walked her out to her truck and lifted her bag into the back seat. Betty had packed some water and snacks. The hugged for a long time and looked at each other at arms length before Ruth climbed in and Amy closed the door.

"Text me when you get home please."

"Seriously ?"

"Yes Ruth seriously and we'll talk soon."

"It was wonderful meeting you Amy."

Amy nodded and smiled and then waved as the truck backed up and then pulled away.

She must have dozed off for a short while waking when the plane dipped to land briefly in Chicago. She headed off to the bathroom while the other three still napped and was met by Ty when she opened the door after finishing.

Amy looked up and smiled reaching up to kiss his lips.

"What's that smile for ?" He asked grinning back.

"Dreams of last night Ty."

"It was a good night." He agreed leaning in for another kiss.

"It was an amazing weekend" Amy said pulling him in for a more thorough kiss, "thank you so much."

"Amy, I…." he started but she stopped him.

"Shhhh, it's you Ty, being with you, not the other stuff."

He looked at her for a second, deep into those endless pools of blue and leaned down again.

Steph came by then "move, I have to pee, and we don't have time for all that."

They came apart laughing "hurry, I came to pee too." Ty said letting go of Amy's hand. There was another bathroom around on the other side but Ty waited as Amy settled in to her seat.

"20 minutes or so." Trev mentioned looking over.

"Definitely would have been enough time" Amy muttered.

When they were all seated Ty and Amy were holding hands, more like gentle caresses but holding none the less.

"So how does a closing like this work, can't be like mine was, checks and initials."

"Well this isn't a mortgage or a property that has a lien so no Ty, not quite the same" Trev explained. "Signatures, maybe 10, deed transfer notarizations and electronic cash transfers. They've requested that Charlie and I attend but I can't imagine why."

"I thought there would be a mortgage ?"

"There will be Ty, but after the fact, set up as a tax offset against your and Amy's taxes as you'll be married before the years end and the marriage tax kicks in. We'll designate the money for land reclamation and building the research facilities, Charlie's got the tax plan proposal."

"So you think the conservatorship will go through ?"

"Well, what we've done is requested to conserve the whole area the Spelts originally donated, Tom came up with the plan and Interior seems to like it as they can actually track the expenses they've incurred keeping the land as they've only controlled it for a set amount of years."

"So we now take on that expense ?"

"You can look at it that way but we don't have to incur the expense of our own law enforcement, some of the Wildlife and Forestry work so their expenses don't go down to zero. We'll sit down before the closing and go over everything. Oh, Mrs. Spelts son-in-law is her attorney."

"I figured, He can have the room across the hall." Amy said "Ty when are your folks coming for your birthday ?"

"The next day Thursday afternoon, Jack and Lisa on Friday I think."

"Ok, that'll work, no room conflicts."

They were picked up by Wyatt and Georgie driving a brand new forest green Toyota LandCruiser. After hugs and shakes they loaded the truck with Amy and Ty content to climb in the third seat which in this case was fairly roomy.

"How's it ride Wyatt ?" Ty asked as they pulled out of the airport.

"Pretty smooth for one step under bus, it's pretty big Ty."

"I guess that was the point, we're 6 as it is. How's the garage work going ?"

"Great actually, the girls worked with Cooter and John and Jackson worked on the Ford. Hoods are off and I think some of the side front fenders. Everyone's been at the Potters most of today. They said they'd be back by 5:00 so they should be home soon."

"Georgie ?"

"Everything's good on our end Ty, we have a surgery tomorrow afternoon, that plow horse and then of course Bert's out of here and the inmates run the asylum."

"The pregnant mares Georgie ?"

"Schedules filling up, I'm asking them to carpool rather than have a million cars driving around the ranch. Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday until the foals arrive. They can sign up three times hopefully and we'll set up the cameras for the foaling if we catch them."

"Have coffee and something for them to grab on the way out, talk to Sandra, we'll get Pavel to take care of it and take turns with the students visiting depending on schedule."

"You have an appointment set up Tuesday afternoon with Robert ?"

"Between us Georgie, Alex and Cass will take him on as a second if he's interested, he seems to like the work and he can double on large animals."

"Wow, that'll be different, he does find the birds fascinating, he goes on and on about them."

"And he really gets along well the Alex and Cass." Ty added "that's a good choice Ames."

Dinner was just family, Amy, Ty, Betty and the kids. Wyatt and Georgie begged off. The kids and Betty had beat them home by about 20 minutes and were washed and waiting on the porch when the truck pulled up.

Ty watched as all there kids ran to Amy's side of the truck and Jackson was in her arms a second after she was upright. They sought him out a minute later. Wyatt had dropped Trev and Steph off at their home before coming to Pegasus. Betty came down and waited for Amy to be free before coming over.

"Good weekend sweetheart ?"

"Pretty special Betty."

"Kids opted for pancakes, breakfast for dinner, good for you ?"

"Perfect, the food was extraordinary and very rich. Salad and fruit for the next few days for me."

"Then blueberry pancakes it is."

Amy smiled at her and was joined by Ty who leaned over to hug Betty. "All good Gran ?"

"Seems we've survived without you two." She laughed.

"How's our truck Jackson ?" Ty asked scooping him up while they climbed the stairs to the house.

"We got the hood and the uh, driver's side, uh, fender off but we need a color."

"Well it's your mom's truck so I guess she decides, Amy ?"

"Maybe a dark purple pearl flake on black, I need swatches."

"We'll all go mom." Charlie said, "I'd like to see them sprayed against each other."

"I'm in." Maddie said. "John's gonna steam blast the engines when they come out, they're a mess."

"Fine, we need to strip them first and have John check the frame welds. We'll also need some changes to the tranny bed, I think we want to drop the Stroker's into finished trucks, I don't want to work against that chrome."

After dinner they gathered in the master bedroom, the girls shared the couch, Betty, Ty and Amy in their chairs and Jackson sitting on Amy's lap while she listened to him read and she texted.

"Who are you texting with ?" Ty asked leaning over Amy.

"Brin" Maddie answered.

"Why Brin ?"

"Last night's dinner, breakfast and Po Boys. We're done I think Mad ?"

"The rest will keep, thanks mom."

"How about I get us all tickets to the Faculty Halloween Ball ?"

"Really, that would be awesome." Charlie said.

"Can me and April come ?"

"April and I and we'll ask Cars as well. It's a Saturday and it'll be up to their folks."

"Betty ?"

"Maybe I'll call Harold."

"Good, I'll ask Bridget to get us a table."

After Jackson read the last page of his chapter he snuggled into Amy who kissed his head and when he yawned she joined him. The girls looked over and smiled.

"I think it's time" Betty said standing "come on kids, Momma and Poppa had a long weekend."

"Go get ready and we'll be in for kisses and good nights" Ty said standing as well.

Lights off a little later Amy curled up into Ty's side, his hand rested softly on her shoulder.

"Trev was right, epic weekend." He whispered.

Amy kissed his chest "it was" she whispered back kissing him again and then trailing kisses up to his neck.

"Ames ?" He sighed squeezing her shoulder.

"Weekend's not over" she whispered this time close to his ear where kisses became nibbles.

"Not so tired after all ?"

"Second wind" was the last thing she said as he pulled her closer.