Chapter 128

With the early flight into Alberta it was still late morning when Ty settled on the porch with Scott who joined him with a cup of coffee and Jack who wasn't allowed caffeine until after his procedure who nursed a bottle of water. Lisa had some phone business to take care of or postpone by email before taking off for a few days to tend for Jack.

Scott took a long pull on his coffee "How long are you here for Ty ?"

"Tentatively scheduled to head back early Saturday morning but that can change depending on tomorrow."

"I'll be fine."

"We can only hope for now Jack, we are both doctors who have been both pleasantly and unpleasantly surprised during a procedure." Ty said looking at Scott for confirmation. "I spoke to Trish on the flight over and she did say all indications pointed towards a more minor blockage so that's good. I have a call in to Dr. Sedaghat."

"Cardiologist ? I don't know the name ?" Scott asked.

"Because he's not from here, he's from the University of Calgary Medical Center."

"He's the best Cardiologist in Alberta according to Lisa and Trish Jack and that's where you're going, UC Medical Center."

"Don't see why."

"Because if you need a bypass his partner Dr. Hartmann is the best Cardio Thoracic surgeon in Alberta and we don't want to have to transfer you. It's time to just relax and enjoy the ride Jack."

"Feel like showing me the house Ty ?"

"That is a great idea Scott, actually haven't seen it yet myself, Jack ? Up for a walk ?"

"Better check with my wife, she's like a hawk."

"I'll mention it to her you old fart, stop complaining because the people who love you care about your health." Ty said laughing and getting up, collecting the mugs and Jack's empty water bottle before heading to the door inside "I'll be right back."

After dropping his stuff in the kitchen, he found Lisa working in her makeshift office, Amy's old room.

"We're walking up to see the house Lisa."

She smiled "I'm so glad you're here Ty."

Ty smiled and nodded "he can be a right pain in the ass that husband or yours."

"Like I said, I'm glad you're here. They're making good progress on the house Ty and the barn is magnificent."

"I've seen pictures. Charlie almost guarantees that the interiors will cost more than the whole post and beam structure."

"Come on Ty, face it, have you ever been in room she's finished where you haven't felt completely comfortable ?"

He nodded, "can't say that I have actually, I had no idea shit could cost this much."

Lisa shrugged "she likes what she likes and has literally no off switch."

"She's secretly looking for an apartment in the city for Maddie if she needs it for college in two years, a million bucks plus Lisa."

"It's an investment Ty, how big an apartment ?"

"Not a studio, probably a one bedroom, doorman building and a garage space."

"At least you don't have to build that one."

"Just furnish it."

"Stop complaining and go, I think you'll be impressed, and don't listen to him, it's not that big."

Ty smiled "that big ?"

"Go, go, I have to finish."

He grabbed a ball cap on the way out and found Scott and Jack leaning against a meadow fence. They joined him on the way to the building site when Jack pointed to the path everyone had been taking and that he assumed would become the road that joined this compound to the ranch.

"The roads come last and we might try this one unpaved to match the ranch, we can cut a separate paved utility road off the county road for trucks and trailers. Let's face it, from this house to the ranch house is a horse ride or a walk."

"Not in winter."

"There are always snow machines Jack and what are the odds of us saying, 'gee it's January and Ithaca's not cold enough.'"

Jack and Scott laughed as the house became visible.

"That's quite a site." Scott murmured as the trees parted and he saw it.

They stopped and Ty looked up at the half covered post and beam structure. He watched as two men held and nailed a 6x8 sheet of what seemed to be fully insulated plywood into place. A team of two carpenters were already lifting the next sheet into place. Alongside the sheets of plywood was a huge pile of somewhat off looking roofing tiles which Ty knew were the solar tiles that would collect energy to the compound's electrical grid.

"Dr. Borden ?"

Ty looked over and saw an approximately 50 year old man walking across the compound towards him.

"It's Ty and you're Mark ?"

"Mark Hendron, yes sir, it's good to meet you. Jack how are you ?" He said reaching across to shake and Dr Cardinal, along for the inspection ?"

"Seems to be coming along for sure." Ty said looking around.

"Yes sir, weather's cooperated, making good progress."

"August 1."

"Definitely seems doable, how about the 50 cent tour ?"

"If you've got the time."

"I do, start with the stables ?"

"Let's go."

"We're waiting for the hardware your wife ordered, probably 2 or 3 more weeks or we'd be further along on the stable floor. The outside is pretty much done except a few of the upstairs windows that are being custom made and there's some leaded glass that will be here in June, stonework and the like."

"How about the upstairs interiors ?"

"Running the utilities now, the flooring for the upstairs is on the first level so we'll be doing the finishing work in a few weeks, still waiting on the pocket doors, it's coming along and in the meantime we concentrate on the house and then the main ranch house when Jack and Lisa head off."

As they walked into the barn Scott stopped and whistled. "This is nice."

Ty stopped alongside him and started his scan at his left, his eyes following the space around and up to the trussed ceiling. Four men were working on stall doors which were obviously being built to include some sort of fronting that Ty assumed was coming from the commercial blacksmith shop Amy hired.

There was a large pile in the center that was covered by several tarps as well as probably a dozen crates on skids along one side. The logic in getting this building done first was evident, storage for a job this size needed ample space for materials.

"What's in the crates ?"

"Power plant and batteries for the compound. This stack is the upstairs flooring, Brazilian Cherry, they had it in stock and we grabbed it, the wait for some of this can throw everything off." Mark said lifting an edge for Ty to look out and touch.

"Brazilian Cherry ?"

"Is there a problem Jack ? It's what Amy ordered."

"It's not a problem Mark." Ty said "If that's what she wants, truth is, I'm doing the outsides, she's doing the insides, what's going in the house ?"

"Number 1 live white oak downstairs, number one live red oak for the upstairs. Hopefully we'll have it when we need it, I told the flooring jobber I've got room and a check for it anytime which is a big plus, hopefully we won't have to work around it. Come upstairs and I'll show you the lofts."

Ty was always amazed at how without interior walls framed structure always looked deceivingly small. He knew that once walls defined spaces things would look way different. "I can't wrap my head around this being like Georgie's apartment at Pegasus."

"This is a huge room Ty." Mark said laughing "watch your step." He said as he lead them over plywood sheets that were laid over floor joists. "I saw the design of the lofts in New York, this is slightly different because there's a central hallway between apartments. These can be made into a huge suite for a large family."

"Like at a hotel." Ty said.

"Exactly, anyway, 4 of the large custom windows haven't been cut into the walls yet or the two skylights so it'll be very bright in here once they arrive and we're waiting for the masons to come to handle exterior stuff, the bluestone stuff and the fireplaces but they need the floor down for the interior work, same for cabinets, built-ins, door frames, kind of like a ballet of craftspeople."

"Let's see the house."

"Let's do the geothermal wells first, they're on the way."

45 minutes later the three made their way back through the trees to the main road down to the ranch.

"So heat, electrical and hot water ?" Scott asked.

"Hopefully all supplied by nature. We're running a natural gas line to the compound for back-up generators, cooking and whatever else needs a boost and an electrical hook up for emergencies and to feed power back to the county grid. In a good year we'll probably get a check back."

They stopped at Scott's clinic truck which now prominently displayed the Pegasus logo over the Hudson Veterinary Clinic name, Scott had to get back to work.

"Have time this week to stop in and meet Anders and Giselle ?"

"Yeah, I'm going to head into town for lunch and stop by after to see Cass and meet Anders. They're working out well Bert said ?"

"Giselle was recommended by Georgie, they were in the same pre vet program and study partners, she's great and Anders is fitting right in, client's love him and he's a solid surgeon."

"Bert had nothing but praise, we'll work out maybe getting them to rotate to New York in the summer. I'll probably be by 1:30 – 2:00ish."

"If nothing changes I should be back by then but Cass is on this afternoon for sure and Anders."

Scott then turned to Jack who put out his hand "Scott, good to see you again."

Scott looked at him for a second and then took a step past Jack's hand and put his arms around him pulling Jack into a hug. They held each other for a moment and then came apart "you take care of yourself Jack, I'll see you Thursday." Nothing else was said as Scott got into the truck and turned the ignition.

"How about a trail ride when I get back from the clinic Jack ?"

"I'd like that Ty, I'll see if Lisa can join us."

Ty had spoken to and actually seen both Dr. Anders Eltang and Giselle Heeschen who was basically the second for all three at this spoke to her at Georgie's recommendation and found that she was perfect for the job, anxious to learn, intuitive and not afraid to give an honest assessment. Ty has sat in on a few planning video meetings and surgical consults, he thought from what he's seen that both would fit in well with Pegasus' mission.

Anders Eltang, DVM came highly recommended by several of the staff they trusted at the UC Vet school who all sang his praises but warned that he wasn't one to fit a prescribed mold. He was also all over the Pegasus belief in naturopathy and their equine focus. Bert pronounced him an excellent surgeon after working with him on two horses. He had flown up to treat them while assessing the new staff and revamped facilities. Ty looked forward to meeting him and hopefully meet Giselle later in the week. She had a full day at UC that Tuesday and wasn't available.

"Anders, it's good to meet you face to face."

"You too Ty, sorry about the circumstances, how's Mr. Bartlett ?"

"Same as always I guess, we're hoping for the best."

"And Amy, how's she feeling ?"

"She doing great, really, she has her moments of discomfort and that'll probably get worse, but overall she couldn't be happier. I guess you're not seeing your two as often as you'd like."

"I see them a few times a week and they come on weekends. Its just until June, and you guys have been great about my schedule. By the way, the house is an amazing godsend Ty, we really appreciate it."

"Glad it's working for you, it's a nice property, they're moving out here once school's over ?"

"Yup, can't wait, I mean Allie my five year old has to switch schools but honestly, moving from the city to a house in the country with land and a barn ? She's so excited."

"I really don't know how attached kids are to their school going from kindergarten to Grade 1."

"She has some friends that we'll keep up with for sure but overall I think you're right."

"And the baby ?"

"Sleeping through the night so that's coming along, I miss her, them all actually but in a few weeks it'll all be back to normal and we'll all be down here."

"Well, don't hesitate to ask if there's anything Pegasus can do to help over that time. Now, let's sit for awhile, I read through your two papers on the flight over and made some notes, it's more stuff Bert is picky about than anything wrong with them per se so take this that way."

Ty got to the ranch before 4:00 having spent 20 minutes or so talking with Cass once he was done with Anders who took over the stream of patients. Caleb was away with the rodeo school and was sorry he couldn't get back for Ty until Thursday but he had to stay as Tim was heading back for the procedure. Sometime soon Casey was due to fly to Ithaca to join Georgie's wedding planning jamboree but he had no idea when that would happen. Probably not until Tim got back to watch over the rodeo.

Jack and Lisa were sitting on the porch each holding a mug. He assumed Jack's was tea since he refused to drink decaffeinated coffee.

"Still up for a ride son ?"

"Definitely Jack" Ty answered coming up the stairs "I'm going to get changed and grab Katie to come too."

"She's got homework." Jack countered.

"She can finish after dinner, it'll be nice to have her along."

Lisa nodded "She's been riding much more often since hooking up with your crew."

"Tomorrow will be a hard day for her, she'll be in school while the procedure is going on. Seems like all of Jackson's stuff was scheduled for when the girls were off. I'll be out in 15 minutes."

It was over an hour and a half before they returned to the barn having rode slowly to the far end of the property and then swung around to pass Paint's final resting spot before calling it a day. It was pleasant and each person seemed to switch places to ride alongside Jack as he led the group which travelled two by two. Katie and Ty volunteered to get the horses settled so that Lisa and Jack could get dinner prepared.

It was an early evening for the group with the limo arriving to pick them up at 6:00 in the morning for Jack's 7:00 AM check in for the procedure. If anyone got a good night's sleep it was Katie or at least she claimed to though Ty had his doubts. Thankfully she was old enough to lock up and get herself to the bus on time and alone. Mitch volunteered to head out late just to be safe but was told it wasn't necessary and if Katie had a problem she knew to call Trish Verani.

At 5:45 Ty walked over to the sink while finishing his coffee and watched the blue Mercedes pull up to the house. This was Bridgett's doing for sure, Amy preferred the Mercedes over any of the American limos and the staff just naturally ordered them. She also preferred cars to trucks and being the weather was clear and no foul weather was expected that's what showed up.

"Limo's here."

"Tell him it'll be a few minutes Ty." Lisa said peeking out and then wiping her hands and heading to bedroom.

"Ready Jack ?" Ty asked.

"Nope, not ready at all, does that matter ?"

"Nope." Katie answered wrapping her arms around him. "I love you GG."

Jack smiled and wrapped his arm around her while kissing her head "I love you too sweetheart."

"I'll see you later, Grandpa will bring me by. Ty, you'll call ?"

"I have your guidance counselor's number and I'll call as soon as we hear Katie."

She smiled and kissed Jack again before turning and walking a few steps where she met Lisa heading to the kitchen.

"You take care sweetie and call Trish if something comes up."

Katie smiled and reached her arms around Lisa "you take care Grand Mere, love you."

Lisa returned the hug and like Jack kissed her head "Try to pay attention today, he's in good hands."

Katie took a step back and with a crooked smile and holding back tears nodded and headed to the stairs.

Lisa closed her eyes and then grabbed a hankie from her pocket to quickly dab at her eyes while heading to the porch where Ty, Jack and the limo waited. With a silent nod from Ty the limo driver held Jack's door on the passenger's side for him to get in while Ty held for Lisa holding his hand out as she eased in to the center seat and climbed in himself.

When they reached RT 2 North to Calgary Ty leaned forward to the driver "Mark right ? You have a scram for the night ?"

"Mark, yes sir, motel nearby the ranch. Thank you sir."

"It's Ty, you ok with picking up food for us ?"

"Part of the package, just dial the cell and let me know though you may have to meet me downstairs."

"Not a problem, you have a place to hang out during the day in Calgary ?"

"We have our spots."

It was early and the ride took 50 minutes. They stopped at the desk in the lobby where a wheelchair and attendant appeared a few minutes later.

"I don't need that." Jack grumbled.

"Need it or not sir, hospital rules for cardio-cath lab patients."

"Just get in Jack." Ty said with a smile.

The attendant led Lisa and Ty to the waiting room with the promise that they'll be brought in to Jack's room in about 30 minutes which would give them 30 minutes with Jack before the procedure. They just needed to get him ready. Ty took the time to call Amy and fill her in. He'd call her directly after the procedure regardless of whether she was in class or not. Technically this was against the rules but nothing would come of this one call even if it was reported.

They sat down together in two side by side chairs and both glanced around exchanging encouraging smiles to several other people who had obviously just dropped off patients.

"I'll go down for coffee once they take him in." Ty said as Lisa reached over to take his hand.

Lisa nodded "Did I ask ? How were the kids with all this ?"

"We talked about it briefly when the kids called to talk to Jack last night, they're pretty much like Katie I guess, the girls actually know two men who've had the procedure, that helped and they were positive and Jackson, who knows really, I think he's good, he trusts doctors and the girls were supportive which is important to him."

It was about 20 minutes when one of the nurses came out to bring them back to Jack's room. They were told that they would have about 30 minutes together and that Jack's procedure would take between 2 and 3 hours which seemed long based on what they read. It was explained when Jack's cardiologist came in to see them all that nothing really ever went according to Google's estimates. Busy hospitals came with delays and he promised to keep them apprised of what was going on. He was scheduled for 9 AM and they were already running late.

"Hurry up and wait." Jack muttered.

Dr. Sedaghat nodded and smiled "pretty much life these days Jack, you're next up and you need to relax."

Jack laughed "Relaxing in a hospital, novel idea doc."

"Not really Jack, you see, we have a pill for that. I'll have Connie bring one in, Midazolam, it'll relax you right up. We'll give you a mild dose now and a larger dose for the procedure. It's effects are almost immediate."

He turned to Lisa and Ty "you can stay until Connie gets here, they'll let you know when we start and from then figure 3 hours or so for the procedure and post procedure stuff. Probably fruitless to say but you don't have to stay close, the call nurse will take your phone number and we have beautiful grounds. I'll be out right after the procedure."

"Thanks doctor, we'll consider it." Ty said as the doctor smiled and then turned to leave.

It was another 10 minutes or so before they were asked to leave. During that time Connie, Jack's prep nurse came in, checked his pulse, respiration and blood pressure and after announcing each perfect handed Jack a pill cup.

"Sorry you two but it's time." She said turning to Ty who was standing over Lisa with his hand on her shoulder. She was sitting next to Jack on his bed and holding his hand until the nurse spoke and then leaned over for a gentle kiss "I'll see you in a few hours Jack."

"I'll be here." Jack answered with a smile."Try not to worry Lis."

Ty put his hand on Jack's shoulder and leaned over to kiss his head. "See ya soon Jack."

Jack nodded and patted his hand before Ty turned and put his arm around Lisa's shoulders to lead her from the room.

"Coffee Lisa ?" Ty asked.

"Yes please Ty and something Amy would have with it."

"Seriously ? You have dental insurance ?"

Lisa laughed "my teeth are fine."

Ty took the elevator down to the lobby and walked over to the Tim Horton's shop conveniently located in the lobby. He stopped at the display case and found the perfect Amy food on the second shelf, sticky toffee apple fritters and then turned to the back of short line where he found himself standing behind Val Stanton who was looking at her phone.

"Val ?"

"Oh Ty, I had no idea you were in town. How's Lisa doing ?"

"Nervous, what are you doing here ?"

"I didn't want her to wait alone and Ash mentioned Lou was heading to NY. How's Jack ?"

"On deck, they'll let us know when they start."

Val nodded and walked up to the counter then turned for a second to Ty "3 black ?"

Ty nodded back with a smile "thanks. Oh and a pistachio muffin and a sticky toffee apple fritter."

"That sounds positively decadent."

"It's for Lisa."

Val smiled and turned to the clerk "two of those please."

"Would you like them warmed ?"

"Definitely." Val answered and then turned back to Ty "How's Amy doing ? She's 5 months now ?"

"Just recently 5 yup, she's doing great, trying to take it easier."

"She's a strong woman from strong stock Ty. Here ya go." She said handing him the tray with the three coffees while she grabbed the bag stopping for a second on the side for napkins and sporks.

He wasn't sure which part of this whole set up that confused him more, the fact that Val just showed up to sit with Lisa fearing she would be alone or Lisa's reaction when she looked up and saw Val walk over from the elevator.

"I didn't know Ty had flown in, I didn't want you to be alone."

"You should have called."

"You'd have told me not to come and made a whole thing of it." Val said sitting down next to her and reaching in the Timmie's bag to hand Lisa a small warm box.

"Thanks for coming Val." Lisa said taking the box and then reaching for her coffee.

Val smiled and opened her box "positively decadent."

Ty smiled and took a sip of his coffee "I'm going to check in at home."

"Send my love." Lisa said sipping from her own cup.

"I will." He said moving a few seats away and settling on his own.

He opened his messenger bag and pulled out his iPad taking another sip from his cup before putting it on the small side table. Before he started calling he checked both his texts and emails as well as any new info from medical and found nothing concerning. Checking his watch and calculating the difference in time zones he dialed Amy's phone and waited.

"Have they started ?"

"Not yet they're running a bit late, how are things over there ?"

"Everything's fine, just a bit anxious. How was he this morning ?"

"He was Jack, I think he's a bit nervous but not showing it."

"How's Lisa ?"

"Lisa is nervous and showing it, she's sitting with Val who showed up."

"That's nice, I'm sure Lisa appreciated her coming."

"I can't figure these two out."

"There's nothing to figure Ty, Val cares about Jack going back years and there's always been a grudging admiration and respect between Val and Lisa."

"Where are you ?"

"In my office waiting for Georgie. We're having lunch together before my next class, have you called Bert yet ?"

"Is there a problem ?"

"No but we got a call from Kentucky this morning, a friend of the Branch's has a thoroughbred that shut down during a race and he suggested that rather than stress the animal with multiple examinations perhaps just sending the labs and x-rays straight to us might be the way to go. I'm sure the file will show up on your iPad before long. Bert's got the preliminaries."

"Ok, I'll keep a look out, Bert's doing my lecture as we speak so I assume I'll hear from him afterwards. Nurse coming Amy, I'll talk to you later, tell Georgie to call if she needs to talk, love you."

"Love you too, let me know what's up."

Ty walked over to join Lisa and Val and got to them at the same time as the nurse. She smiled "they just took Mr. Bartlett in, I'll be here for any updates and will let you know as soon as I do. If you go for a walk just have your phones handy. I'm right there at the station if you have any questions or need something."

Ty smiled "Thanks, we may go for a walk later."

He put his hand on Lisa's shoulder and Lisa's hand moved to it and squeezed for a second before letting go. She looked up at him for a second and got a feeble smile back before he moved back to his stuff. He took a second and texted Amy, Georgie and Betty "He's in, they should start any time now, I'll call when it's over."

It was almost 45 minutes later when engrossed in reading a surgical paper Bert had sent over that Lisa gently tapped his arm.

"Val and I are going down for some fresh air."

"I'll come too, just give me a second to pack up and use the bathroom."

They opted for drinks and snacks on the way back in after their walk and headed to the recommended side door near the gift shop as that lead to the more tree lined walks on the campus side of the building. It was a sunny spring Calgary day and they were happy to have brought their jackets.

"The girls asked me to go by and visit the alpacas." Ty said as they walked slowly down the main path.

"That's not too hard they're in North 6 I think, just drive down Cotter's Path and you'll see them. They're quite friendly and curious."

"I have almost nothing to do with the herd in Ithaca, it's weird, I mean, I ride by them all the time but that's about it. Amy rides down and walks through them when she's not in a hurry and JT has that small pet group down by the barns but aside from that, Bryce's people deal with them."

"We're hosting an end of school outing in a couple weeks for I think 3 elementary school grades with the clinic."

"Yeah Scott called, sounds nice."

"What's this now Lisa ?" Val asked.

"Scott called one day, the school had contacted him and asked if he could bring a bunch of animals to an outing at the school grounds and he thought a field next to a herd of alpacas and a bunch of horses would be more fun as did they and called. He'll bring out a bunch of animals and talk about them and they'll see the herd and have lunch and some events in the next field over. Haddie will come and talk about alpacas and bring some sample of the fleece for them to see."

"You have that beautiful blanket you can show the kids." Val reminded her.

"I hadn't thought about that" Lisa answered "I'm sure Haddie has a whole collection of things, I'll ask what she plans on doing."

They chose to sit for awhile rather than continue as the paths became more busy the closer they got to the school buildings and it was hard to walk three abreast.

"Jackson called Jack last week to tell him he was all clear ?"

Ty sighed "all clear and raring to go, anywhere, anytime. If he could sleep, eat and bathe on a horse I'm sure he would."

Val laughed "sounds like their crew when Amy and Ash were that age. Jesse's crew was not like that, he was like my husband."

Ty thought of a couple things he could say but thought better of them although he couldn't imagine the asshole Val's husband must have been.

"Well let's not go there Val." Lisa laughed.

"Fine by me" Val answered patting Lisa's knee.

Lisa took a second and then made to stand "Well this was nice but we should probably get back, I bet there's a lunch line forming at Timmies."

"Just get coffee, I talked to the nurse before and ordered food for the staff and other patient's families."

"You didn't have to do that."

"I know Lisa but it's really nothing, a couple hundred bucks in appreciation, Mark was fine picking it up and bringing it but being we're so close, the restaurant is delivering and setting it up."

"Well done Ty." Val said "So what are we getting and who's Mark ?"

"I ordered two Elvis platters from Big T's BBQ and they're throwing in enough desserts, Timmie's is sending up coffee and water, we're all good on that front and Mark is our chauffeur."

He didn't say anything but he was impressed at Val's lack of surprise.

"Bar B Que ?" Lisa asked.

"Hey, I went to school here for 8 years, I'm not passing up BT's, it's the best in Calgary and it's literally right down the block."

It was inevitable that the food was delivered and getting set up just as they were told that Jack's procedure was done and that the doctor would be out in a few minutes to talk with them.

"He's got to lay mostly flat for a few hours and he'll be groggy from the midazolam. They're cleaning him up and moving him to his room, same as before and you'll be able to see him for a little while and then he'll probably sleep for a couple of hours. Dr Sedhagat will be right out."

"Sir, we're done."

Ty turned to one of the two people who set up the buffet, nodded and followed him into the lunch room. He noted the food, plates, cutlery and the three cut pies. "Great, thanks for everything." He said reaching into his pocket and handing each of the delivery people a 20 dollar bill and then followed them out into the hallway where the doctor was just approaching Lisa and Val.

"Jack's fine, everything went great, we found two blockages and placed a stent in each. He should do fine from here on out. I'm telling you what I told him which was that he needs to consider semi-retirement, the stressful stuff at least needs to get cut back. Questions ?"

"Going home ?"

"I'll check him tomorrow morning and we'll get you out. You've met Alan my NP ?"

"This morning when they admitted my husband."

"I have a few more procedures this afternoon but he'll be nearby all day, you can just ask anybody if you need him. He'll also stop in to discuss the next few days, medication, some slight dietary changes and your next appointment which will be in three weeks instead of two with someone in Ithaca checking his wounds."

"Top notch Cornell trauma nurse, retired Army Major." Ty answered.

"I'm sure he'll be in the best of hands and if you need something for the airlines let Alan know."

"We fly private, there won't be an issue. What meds ?" Ty asked.

"Clopidogrel and Rosuvastatin. I understand he already takes Carvedilol and an aspirin a day."

"What are those, the new ones ?" Lisa asked.

"Clopidogrel is an anti clotting med, it keeps blood clots from forming and Rosuvastatin is a cholesterol med."

"I thought his cholesterol was fine ?"

"Yeah, I think it could be finer. The pill, cereal instead of fried breakfasts, steak once a week, more greens, less work, more play, less caffeine." He said smiling "He's fine Lisa, I'd like to keep him that way. Now, I should eat and get back to it, thanks for the food by the way, it's a real treat. I assume Jack's probably settled by now, why don't you head in, he'll probably fall asleep soon."

When the doctor walked off they headed towards Jack's room and found the door open. One of the nurses and Alan, the Nurse Practitioner were standing on either side of the bed hooking Jack back up to the room monitors.

Ty stepped to the side and sent a group text to Amy, Lou, Georgie and Betty letting them know that Jack was out with two stents and is doing well and that they were about to see him,

"Ah, here's your family Jack, I'll be by a few times today, now stay flat and try not to shimmy around for a couple hours and then we'll start raising the bed."

"He's all yours and you can stay while he sleeps, he's already ordered his dinner, turkey sandwich and salad and oatmeal with fruit for breakfast. Hopefully you'll be heading home for lunch."

Lisa anxiously looked over at Jack as soon as Alan moved from his side and smiled at seeing Jack awake and doing the same.

"How are you feeling sweetheart ?"

"Tired but aside from that I guess I feel fine."

She sat down next to him, took his hand and leaned over to kiss him and then run her hand along the side of his face. "Do you know the results ?"

"Two stents, better than a bypass."

"Much better." Ty said tapping Jack's foot.

"Val, thanks for being here, it's different on the other side."

"It sure is Jack."

Both Lisa and Ty knew that it was Jack who took Val back and forth for her tests and treatments for he cancer treatments years before. Once again Ty thought about how bizarre it was that these two families who obviously started as friends and moved through many incarnations and literally feuded with each other at times could care about each other so much in the end.

They heard Tim before they saw him, he clearly asked for Jack and said the words son-in-law a few seconds before he came through the open door into the room, looked around and walked over to the bed.

"You're Ok ? It's good to see you Jack."

"Thanks Tim, I'm Ok, it's good to see you too."

He gently shifted his hand to Lisa's shoulder and squeezed lightly "Lisa." Was all he said.

"Ty, Val, you both Ok ?"

"How's Amy and the kids, all good ?"

"Everybody's good Tim."

"Casey was talking to Sandra this morning and she's probably flying back with you if that's Ok."

"It'll be good to have the company, and you ?"

"I'll stay with the rodeo until Thursday and fly in with everybody else I guess."

"I think Ash and I are flying down on Wednesday so she can spend time with Amy." Val added. "I'm pretty excited to see the place."

"I heard you were her plus one." Lisa commented "you're staying with the Caldwells."

"Ash says it's a nice house."

Ty nodded "They have a nice place and as a bonus 4 pianos, one of which is a concert grand."

"And a daughter dating one of yours." Val added smiling.

"And a daughter dating one on mine."

"Doctor said Tuesday at the earliest for Jack" Lisa said "we might join you Val."

"I'd love the company, Ashley buries herself in legal stuff on flights."

It was evident to see that Jack was fading and one of the nurse's came by and suggested that perhaps Mr. Bartlett might be left to fall asleep and get a couple hours rest.

"I should head home."

"At least stay for lunch Val, you have to eat." Lisa said looking over but not leaving Jack's side. "Why don't you all get some food and I'll join you in a few minutes."

Ty nodded "Good idea, let's grab some food and give Jack and Lisa a few minutes alone. Come on Val, Tim, let's eat."

By the time they put their belongings on a table and got on the short line for food Lisa joined behind them. "He fell asleep moments after you all left, he looks good though."

Val grabbed for a spoonful of cole slaw to drop on her plate "I'm so relieved everything worked out and it wasn't more serious."

"I couldn't imagine him needing a bypass." Lisa said and shuddered.

"Sounds like he just needs to cut back a little, we'll talk about it." Ty said. "Tim, it's time, something's got to give."

"For once I'm not the stubborn one in all this Ty, I've been saying that for a few years, even Caleb's stretched thin with the kids and the school and Mitch is moving out when they get married, there's no room for Brick in that loft and I don't think Jen wants to live there either. The herd is easier than the horse business by far."

"Well," Lisa said after swallowing "we can't decide any of this without Jack but I agree, the herd is easier. Maybe we can come up with a plan when we're all together at the wedding. How hard would it be to get rid of the stock, what do we have ?"

Tim held his finger up and took a sip of water "About 85 horses all told, four months if we're lucky, 6 if we're not."

"I'm thinking a month if we ship 20 a week to our ranch in Montana."

"You can take that many ?" Val asked.

"I don't see why not, they're mostly broke, vetted, good stock." Ty shrugged "We move a boatload of horses between the Montana and Arizona ranches. It's a slight pain at the borders getting them into the US but we'll work it all out. We can send a vet with them if needs be."

"Solves that problem." Tim agreed.

"Let's give Jack some time to recover before we bring this up, who knows, maybe he'll mention the slowing down part. Ty, I have your permission to use that plan ?"

"I'll mention it to Amy when I call after lunch but I don't see that there'll be a problem."

"You'll pay ?"

Ty laughed "of course we'll pay Tim, if Jack agrees, come up with a number. We'll even pick them up. Just remember that I and now Amy are partners."

"That's a scary thought actually." Tim laughed.

"She's fair Tim, just don't piss her off."

"Let's not piss anybody off. I'm stuffed. I have to get back and get over to Heartland for Katie." Tim said "We'll be back at like 5:00 for her to visit, should I bring sandwiches back ?"

"That's a good idea, how about we call an order into Maggie's and you can add yours and Katie's."

"You know Tim, you've been on the road all day how about I have the limo pick you up at the ranch and bring you out. Leave your truck there and you can just drive it home when we get dropped off tonight."

"What limo ?"

"The one Amy ordered so we didn't have to drive."

"Sounds good to me, Katie will love it and I won't have to pay for parking again, it's criminal what they charge."

"I'll call tomorrow Val." Lisa said giving her a hug. "Thanks for being here."

Ty walked both Tim and Val to the elevator and told Tim he'd call the driver and have him the ranch at 4:30. Lisa went towards the room and checked to see that Jack was still fast asleep. Walking past the nurses station she was stopped. "Mrs. Stillman, get comfy and relax, he's fine, just sleeping. I'll let you know as soon as he's awake."

Lisa sighed and nodded, "I know, I'm sorry."

"Please, you have nothing to be sorry about and you can sit in there with him you want."

"I don't want to wake him."

"Neither do we, I'll come find you when he's up."

She looked up to find Ty stopped and looking at her "where to ?"

"Let's sit in the lounge, they'll come get us when he's up."

They found a spot with two chairs caddy corner and took them. There was a small table between them.

"Coffee ?" Ty asked "I could run down ?"

"I have to start cutting back if he does."

Ty laughed "at home I'm down to one cup in the morning, maybe a second at Cornell for office hours."

"Does it feel like home Ty ?"

"That ship has long ago left the harbor Lisa."

"How are things home then ?"

"Busy bordering on hectic, I was never this busy in Hudson."

"You've been there less than a year Ty, it was a major transition for you, you really need to give it time."

"We're having twins Lisa, time is up."

"Have you heard from Mallory ?"

"Jake's contract is up June 30th and they'll drive up on the July 1 which is a 2 day drive I think, Texas to New York. They'll be at the wedding."

"Where are they gonna stay ?"

"In the house for the first few months, mostly if we're having a bad night, after that we really need her more during the day so they can have their own place, we'll figure something out."

Ty's phone chirped and he glanced down and answered "Hey, let me go downstairs I'll call you back in 2 minutes."

"It's Amy, I'm going to go out where I can talk."

Lisa nodded "send my love."

"Hey Ames."

"Hello sweetheart you're on speaker with Lou and Georgie."

"Lisa sends her love, where are you ?"

"My office, Georgie gave Lou a tour of the school and she sat in on my lecture. How's Grandpa ?"

"Sleeping when I came down, we saw him for I guess 20 minutes and they said he'll probably sleep for 2 or 3 hours."

"What's the prognosis Ty ?" Georgie asked.

"Clopidogrel and Rosuvastatin, cut back on caffeine, fried foods, beef, etc."

"And ?"

"And Lou, cut back on stress."

"And how do they propose to do that ?"

"Tim said he and Caleb would be fine getting out of the stock business. Mitch and Jen are actively looking for a ranch, I can't imagine he's a vote to stay in, it's a lot of work and very time consuming as we all know. Cows are less stressful."

"Will he go for that ?"

"I have no idea Ames, I'm hoping he will. We'll deal with it after the wedding. I told Tim we can take the horses."

"How many ?"

"I think 85, I'm sure Montana can take 20 a week. All vetted and healthy, mostly ranch horses."

"Let's not worry about 85 healthy horses right now." Amy said.

"Dad was there ?" Lou asked.

"He got there just after, Val was there."

"I'm not surprised" Lou said "Grandpa took care of Val when she was sick. And she and Lisa have a grudging respect for each other regardless of, uhm, you know the Grandpa stuff."

"I think Lisa appreciated her being there. How are things at home ?"

"Bert misses you."

"You don't miss me Georgie ?"

"We all miss you Ty but Bert needs a sounding board and Amy's pregnant and has no patience so it's us."

"Sorry Georgie, I've gotten used to it."

"Look I don't want to stay down too long, call Betty and the kids and I'll call them when Jack's awake."

"Love you Ty."

"I love you too Ames, bye Lou, bye Georgie."

He stopped for two herbal teas and headed upstairs where he found Lisa sitting engrossed in her iPad.

"Here Lisa, herbal tea."

Ty took a sip and put his cup down.

"Since when do you drink herbal tea."

Ty sighed "It's all the rage back home, it's not bad but it's not coffee."

Lisa laughed "the girls ?"

Ty smiled "that and Amy can't. I get morning coffee with Betty, I'm sort of used to it."

"You don't cheat ?"

"Every now and then, I work at a college where coffee is considered the nectar of life so…."

"I won't tell anyone."

Julie, the on call nurse popped her head around the corner "Jack's awake, I moved a second chair into the room. They frown on the whole bed sitting thing."

Lisa smiled "Thank you Julie, we'll just gather our things."

They walked into Jack's room to find his bed empty and being straightened up. Alan the NP was also there checking the monitors and turned. "He's in the bathroom getting washed up and I assume other stuff. Come sit down, we're about to raise his bed, he's doing fine."

He was out a moment later in his hospital gown and slippers and looked over to see them, his face breaking into a nice smile. There you both are, Val and Tim went home ?"

"Tim will be back with Katie." Ty said.

"Into bed Jack, you have to humor the rules for a few more hours." Alan said walking up. "I raised the bed half way and you can adjust it to make yourself comfortable."

"Thank you Alan, you heard the man Jack, bed." Lisa said walking over to the opposite side "come on so I can get a hug and a kiss."

Ty stood and watched and Jack looked over when he was in bed. "Sit Ty, tell me about home."

"The kids are great, Amy's growing and if you can believe it eating even more than normal, it's busy Jack."

"She's good though, Amy I mean, with the pregnancy and all ?"

"Seems to be, obstetrician's happy, she could gain some more weight but she's in the ballpark. Once school ends she might put on more weight, who knows with her, she's not the sitting home and knitting type, you know ?"

"Jackson told me he's got the all clear ?"

"With very little exceptions, yup, Jackson's all boy again. Spends every last second with a horse."

"When he can't be fishing."

"Fishing, yeah, swimming's pretty close to that, I don't think he actually watches tv, he'll watch a nature show on line sometimes and of course a fishing show or a show about horses. The girls binge watch something or other every now and then and they go to the movies on dates. That's weird too, Bobby drives now but is only allowed one in the car."

"How's all that for you ?" Jack asked.

"It's weird Jack, I always thought I'd get to grow into fatherhood, you know learn the whole being a dad thing from the ground up."

Lisa laughed "Boy did you take a wrong turn."

Ty and Jack laughed as well and and Ty added "I wouldn't go that far but they're not like Amy was at 15 when I met her or at least I don't remember her that way, we weren't really dating, more like close friends, we were scared to start anything for months and then I screwed it up the first time. They don't have that."

"What does Amy say?"

"She says I'm the perfect Pappa."

Lisa smiled "Maybe you should take that to heart."

"I'm chasing my tail here Lisa."

"Sounds to me like they're giving you a run for your money and you're keeping up. Take heart in that son."

"Agreed" Lisa said echoing Jack's comment "sounds like you're doing a great job Ty."

They spent a couple more hours going back and forth talking about a variety of things from the Heartland herd to Erma's herd, the alpacas, school, surgery, the houses, the ranch house in particular, rescue and horses in general, all the while dancing around the elephant in the room, Jack's needing to slow down and something having to give.

Caleb had called Ty at one point and Jack was pretty clear about not speaking to him right then in the hospital so Ty smiled and wandered out to the hallway towards the lounge returning a few minutes later with the plan that he'd come by the ranch in the afternoon, see Jack and then he and Ty would take a ride and have a good visit.

If all was well with Jack and there was no reason to think otherwise he'd head out from the ranch on Friday in the morning, stop at the nature rescue to see how the build was going and say hi to Bob and then head in to the clinic for a couple hours and spend some vet time with Scott and Cass. His last stop would be White Horse by way of Fairfield.

Katie was first into the room, she was carrying a bag and smiled when she saw Jack "you look great GG, how do you feel ?"

Jack smiled "I feel fine Katie, a little itching in an inconvenient spot but that's about it."

"Can I take your picture to send to Mad and Charlie ?"

Ty smiled at the look on Jack's face "How about you scoot over by GG and I'll take the picture."

"Oh great !" Katie said and walked over to the left side of the bed before Jack could object and leaned in, smiled and put her thumb up. "Come on GG, smile !"

Lisa smiled as Jack smiled and the picture was taken, Jack hated his picture taken and in a hospital gown he probably hated it even more. "Send me a copy of that Katie."

"Sure thing Grand Mere. Grandpa stopped to talk to Casey, I've got sandwiches though."

"I'm Ok waiting until Jack gets his food but you two can eat if you're hungry."

"I can wait, Katie ?"

"I'm good." Katie answered moving over next to Ty and shrinking to the floor. "How's Georgie doing ?" she asked Ty.

"Good I guess, a little nervous probably."

"You have a dress ready Katie ?"

"I have a dress in New York which will be fitted when I get there."

"Sounds exciting and Brick ?"

"Brick has a new suit, boots and hat."

"How's that going ?"

"What ?"

Ty smiled "You and Brick."

"We're friends."

"Friends, Ok, that's good."

Ty was smiling and going to continue giving Katie the gears when Tim got to the room.

"Sorry, Casey called to firm up plans. She'll be in Hudson on Friday afternoon to fly out with you Saturday Ty."

"That's great Tim and you ?"

"Me, I'll be with the rodeo until Thursday and flying Thursday night with everyone left. How are you feeling Jack ?"

"That's a good question." Dr. Sedaghat said walking through the door followed by Alan his Nurse Practitioner.

"I feel fine Doc."

"That's what I like to hear Jack," he said before turning to the group "how about this, Alan tells me you're all here to join Jack for dinner. What say you all move across the hall to the lunch room and let me give Jack a quick look over and Alan will deliver him to you across the hall ? Feel like sitting a table with the family for dinner Jack ?"

"Sounds perfect." Jack said smiling.

"Your robe's in the closet Jack." Lisa said getting up and giving him a loving kiss "Come on, let's leave Jack and the doctor alone."

Rather than return to the room, once Jack was escorted to his table and served his dinner they ate and stayed in that room until the floor nurse came to announce that visiting hours would end in 15 minutes.

They straightened up whatever was left on the table and moved the two tables they had joined for the group back into place so by the time they got back to the room goodnights were in order. Alan had told them to be there by 9 AM though there was no guarantee they'd be out by any specific time.

"It depends on patient load, the overnights and emergencies but there's no reason for Jack to be here any longer than necessary so we'll try to get to him first thing, most of his discharge paperwork is done and they'll be by for vitals and an ECG at 6:30 or 7:00 in the morning so it's just a matter of review and signing."

"We'll be here at 9:00, it's not a problem." Ty said.

Alan had nodded to Lisa when they got back and she was perched on the side of Jack's bed so Ty moved to the other side and lay his hand on Jack's shoulder. "See you in the morning Jack."

"You don't have to come Ty, really."

"I'm coming with Lisa Jack, if there's one thing I've learned with the kids it's that it's not always for you."

Katie walked over when Ty came out from the side of the bed and gave Jack a kiss and a hug. "I'll see you tomorrow GG."

"Goodnight sweetheart."

Tim stayed at the foot of the bed and just tapped Jack's foot under the blanket. "I'll see you at the ranch Jack."

"Goodnight Tim."

Ty suggested they leave Jack and Lisa alone for a minute and they trooped out into the lounge.

"Talk to your cousins lately Katie ?" Ty asked.

"Last night but I texted them and Georgie the picture you took. I'll probably call Georgie and mom tonight, maybe the girls."

"You Ok Katie ?"

"Oh yeah, seeing him was good."

"I'll say." Lisa agreed walking over.

It was almost 9:00 when they got back to Heartland. Tim left to home immediately, he'd been up early driving in from the North and wanted one last call with Casey before bed. With school and chores in the morning Katie also headed straight to her room.

Lisa and Ty sat and nursed a bottle of water in the kitchen but it was evident that they too were exhausted. They'd be picked up at 7:30 in the morning which would get them to the hospital by nine even if they picked up some morning rush hour traffic on the way. They could always sit down at the Tim Hortons to wait.

They stepped out of the kitchen and Ty reached around to give her a hug for a few seconds and feel her slightly decompress.

"You need to get some sleep Lisa, he's fine."

"I'll certainly try Ty but I'll sleep better with him home."

"I get that, good night grand mere."

"Good night sweetheart."

His last duty for the day was calling New York where he assumed everyone was settled in the master bedroom so he decided to try a Skype connection instead of a phone call and it seems they were waiting for this with everyone gathered together in front of one of the iPads when the connection went through.

"Hey, you look tired." Amy said

"You look great."

"Hey dad !"

"Hey Jackson, how's your day been ?"

"Great, swimming club after school."

"And you two ?"

He smiled when they answered simultaneously "good Pappa, how's GG and Grand mere ?"

"GG's fine and your grand mere's had a hard day but she's relieved."

"I hear you're coming back with Casey ?" Amy asked.

"Early Saturday morning, we should be in Syracuse around lunch."

"Betty and I are coming to get you with a stop at the Syracuse farmer's market for hanging plants first."

"Hanging plants."

"Yes, for the porch and the front of the barns. We're throwing a wedding and I want the grounds to look nice."

"We're also hoping we won't get a late freeze." Betty added "So keep that it mind son."

"Bobby's coming this weekend to rototill the flower beds and the veggie garden." Charlie added.

"We don't have a rototiller ?"

Amy smiled "we have no need, the Carmichael's machine does their farm, the Potter's and ours. Betty and the kids take care of our annuals planting and the veggies."

"Well my recollection of last summer was that the ranch was beautiful and colorful so if you need me to do anything just ask."

"We'll take care of it Pappa" Maddie said followed by Charlie's "you do horses remember ?"

"Yes Charlie, I make the donuts, I remember."

Amy laughed "Now that we've straightened that out what's your schedule for tomorrow ?"

"Pick up Jack first thing and then Caleb's coming by for a trail ride and a visit. Friday is, not necessarily in this order, Haddie, the clinic and Bob to check on construction for the second check and Saturday is home."

Ty finished and yawned, hiding it behind his hand "sorry, I guess my bodies winding down and I still have to shower."

"You better go then 'cause there'll be a line in the morning."

Ty laughed "That's changing in a couple of weeks Jackson."

"I know, we voted."

Now Amy laughed "you'd better go then, when will I hear from you next my love ?"

"I'll call when Jack's settled at home, I love you all and miss being home with you. Everybody sleep well, GG's fine."

Ty smiled when everyone said their goodbye's in a jumble and then laughed. The last thing he heard was Maddie's "Goodnight Pappa" as she cut the connection.