Chapter 133
"How are you feeling Amy ?"
"I feel like a mini-van Miriam" She answered her obstetrician who smiled back at her.
"Well at least you've got a nice tan, glad to be home ?"
"Not sure yet really, I have to admit, the past few weeks have been pretty amazing, even with Ty having to come back and forth for part of that. We'll find a time where you and Daniel can come up next summer, maybe spring."
"We'll look forward to it, now to you. The boys look fine as do your sugar levels but your blood pressure's a bit up."
"Annie mentioned it. Is that a problem ?"
"Ordinarily I'd say no but you just got back from laying at a pool, swimming I assume and taking long walks and since you're carrying identical twins we're going to to keep an eye on it."
"How high ?" Ty asked.
"Not extreme, actually borderline and nothing to worry about at this point but let's shoot for textbook. I assume you're not going overboard with salt or changed your diet drastically ?"
Ty laughed "she's been on a chip and pretzel binge lately."
"Pickles ?" Miriam asked.
"Half sour." Amy answered with a smile.
"Ok, well, salt is one of those cravings pregnant women get and easily indulge in, let's cut those out and as much extra salt as you can, some is fine, lay off fried and heavily processed foods. Are your feet swelling, any problems there ?"
"No thankfully, really just the salt craving and backache which I already know is something you can't fix. Occasional Braxton Hicks contractions. How do we handle the blood pressure ?"
"Exercise appropriate to your condition and the diet change for now but I think we're going to start meeting weekly and I'm going to have you keep a blood pressure history."
"Ok, that doesn't sound extreme."
"It's not, I'll have Annie give you one of our automatic monitors, we keep them calibrated and it'll record the measurements for you. Follow the directions, arm on the table and feet flat and bring it with you next week. We'll check the numbers, don't worry and no magic potions Amy, please."
"Worse case scenario if it doesn't normalize ?" Ty asked.
"Labetalol which is a blood pressure med and perfectly safe for pregnant women, we're not there yet."
"Is this serious ?"
"Well Ty, high blood pressure is certainly serious in the scheme of things and certainly in pregnancy especially with twins and someone who normally doesn't have it, but for now it's just something we're going to look at and track, and as I said Amy's pressure isn't considered high by most standards just different than what we've seen."
Ty frowned "I've got to be in Canada for a week."
Miriam smiled "Have a good trip ?"
Amy laughed.
"Really Ty, we're almost there, 6 weeks away and this is nothing except preventative monitoring at this stage, trust me and don't worry."
"Ok, I won't worry."
They both got up and before they left the consult office Miriam stopped them "by the way, as far as we can tell Amy doesn't have any of those things you'll find googling pregnant with twins and high blood pressure so let's not go there. Diet and appropriate exercise, join a pregnant stretching and yoga group, that might help your back and your blood pressure. When do you start classes ?"
"A week from Monday." Amy answered.
"Anything else ? Questions ?"
'Oh, I have a dental appointment Monday, cleaning and check-up."
"Not a problem unless there's something serious."
"No problems, just standard stuff."
"Good, then I'll see you next Thursday Amy."
"Well me and somebody, Ty won't get back before then."
Amy set her next appointment and took her blood pressure monitor thanking Annie. Ty helped her with her jacket and Amy grabbed her hat. A couple minutes later he held open the front door of the Jag and closed it behind her.
"Maybe I should ask Bert to take this one."
"I'm sure he would Ty but it's not his job and there's the engineer inspection on the house."
"Still, this whole blood pressure thing."
"It's my blood pressure Ty, you can't take the test for me, so unless you're gonna grab inappropriate foods from my hand or go to yoga for me, you should go do your job. You've spent the better part of a week prepping for these surgeries."
Ty sighed and backed up "you're right I'm sorry for losing it."
Amy leaned over and pulled him over for a kiss "I love you, you didn't lose anything sweetheart, let's get back, you've got rounds and I've got to join a yoga class. Lou had a big ball, I wonder if I'll get a big ball."
Ty laughed "I remember that big ball."
He walked her into the house and ran up to change. Amy stopped in the kitchen, grabbed a cup of tea and two clementines and walked to the library where she found Betty with her feet up reading from a folder.
"What's the good news Amy ?"
"The baby's are fine but my blood pressure's up a bit. Have to cut back on the salt and I'm going to sign up for a yoga class, interested in being my second ?"
Betty laughed "if you can't find someone 20 years younger than me to sit behind you on a mat on the floor, sure."
Amy smiled at her "You're not that old Gran, I'm sure I can find someone else."
"So blood pressure ?"
"Chips and pickles for starters, keep a BP record and the exercise. Miriam says not to worry, we're just watching for now."
"Sounds easy enough."
"It does, now, where are my children ?"
"Horses."
Amy laughed "can you be more specific ?"
"April, Cars and JT are exercising horses in rotation and the girls are in isolation or working with the new horses that got dropped yesterday."
"You Ok taking them up to the other house on your own ?"
"I am actually but Sarah is coming up with Annabelle to have a look around and to help with the horses."
"Nobody tells me anything anymore."
"You're not going there are you ?"
Amy sighed "No, it's exactly the way I set it up so more getting what I prayed for."
"It's time to take care of yourself sweetheart, you've spent the past 7 years putting everyone and everything else first."
"You handling lunch ?"
"I am, pizza delivery at 1:00. Have a choice ?"
"Sal's, they make their own sauce from scratch, less salt."
"Sal's it is."
"Hey Betty" Ty said coming into the library in scrubs. "Bert says hi to you all and I'm heading to medical" He finished leaning over Amy and who turned for a kiss and sighed.
"Let me get my boots on and I'll walk you to the family barn, pizza at one, spread the word. Later Gran." Amy said getting up and walking over to kiss her on the cheeks while hugging her.
"I gotta say I'm looking forward to holding those two." Betty said smiling at Amy when she stood.
Amy took Betty's hand and laid it on her ever larger belly "I can't wait to see them in your arms."
They both stopped at the first round pen where Charlie was working a new horse and leaned against the rail. When she noticed she smiled and waved but didn't stop.
"Go ahead Ty, I'm going to watch them for a few minutes" noticing Maddie one pen over.
Ty kissed her again and rubbed his hand on her back "don't forget to tell them about the pizza."
Amy laughed "I'll try, I usually remember the food things."
"No comment." Ty said laughing as he walked away.
"I love you Ty !" Amy called out.
"Love you too." Ty called back.
Amy went back to watching Charlie start the horse around the pen. She didn't push it, this was a rescue and clearly not anywhere near ready to join up. She noticed that the mare was clearly undernourished with a somewhat distended belly. Charlie smiled at her again when she turned to follow the horse and called out "she's almost done, how was the doctor ?"
"Fine, they've confiscated my chips and pickles."
"Sorry to hear about the chips, how are my brothers ?" Charlie said letting the mare slow down.
"They're fine Charlie, Oh yeah, pizza at 1:00."
"Love pizza, can I invite Bobby ?"
"Text Gran, I'm sure it'll be fine, how's he doing ?"
"Working hard and missing me."
Amy smiled as Charlie, now holding the mare's bridle and walking her around, and asked "and you ?"
"I miss him mom."
"Yeah, Ty's leaving in the morning. Go back with Bobby after lunch."
"You think ? What about these guys ?"
"We do have ranch hands Charlie, I'll talk to Chuck, text Bobby when she's stalled."
"Thanks mom !"
Amy put her hand up in acknowledgment and walked over to Maddie's pen, stopping against the fence to watch. Maddie was in with a large gelding who was also undernourished and apparently just over some type of skin problem that was probably rain rot based on the few flakes still waiting to fall. He was slowing down like Charlie's mare but breathing heavier.
'He's had it Mad." Amy called out.
"Poor guy, he's not having a good time, I'm not sure the hawthorn and licorice root are enough."
"Talk to Sarah and Ty or Bert, a steroidal inhaler might help. How's his temp ?"
"A little high, they didn't think it was an infection though. He is a little better based on his chart. I'll talk to Sarah first and see what she thinks, maybe add mullein or nettle ?"
Amy thought for a second "Or both, I'll leave it to you and the brain trust. Pizza at 1:00 Mad. How's Brin doing ?"
"Submerged in Beethoven and missing me."
"And you ?"
"Submerged in horses and missing her. How was your appointment ?"
"The boys are fine and my blood pressure is up a bit, cutting back on the excess salt and yoga for now."
"When does Pappa leave ?"
"First thing tomorrow with Mallory and Jake."
"A week ?"
"If we're lucky."
"I guess we'll miss them together."
"If you see JT and crew let them know about the pizza Mad I'm going to walk the stables."
"They should be back soon, I'll keep an eye out. Oh the family horses are either in the back meadow or being exercised. Big clean out day."
Amy nodded and waved and headed towards the empty barn in search of Chuck who found her as she was walking though. She smiled at the ranch hands doing a complete brush out of the stalls. Looking around she saw the pressure washers lined up against the tack room ready to blast away any built up crud.
"Hi Amy, how are you feeling and the babies."
"All good Chuck and you ?"
"I'm great and Robin's great."
Amy breathed deep and moved over to the closest stall door as she felt the Braxton Hicks contraction and bent over a little.
She saw him come over and reach out "Amy ?"
"I'm fine Chuck, don't worry it's called a Braxton Hicks contraction and it's perfectly normal. It's already passing, it's just my body adjusting for the birth."
"You sure, it looked bad."
Amy breathed deeply again, "it's almost over sweetheart, part of being pregnant."
"Ok, I trust you."
"I'm going to stop at the back meadow and visit. If you want we're having pizza at the house at 1:00.
Chuck nodded "Well, I should start spraying the other side."
"Go ahead, I won't hold you up anymore."
She walked over to the fence and glanced up over her shoulder at Georgie's apartment to see if she was in one of the window seats to find them both empty and then glanced back to the horses where she saw Isabelle look over and then turn to trot over to her.
'Hello my sweet." Amy cooed to her as the horse dropped her head for a snuggle. Spartan was over a second later. "Hello Spartan, are you both having a good day?"
She turned when she heard a door close above her. Georgie waved heading down the stairs. "Hey Amy, I was going to ride Belle over to the jumping facility, I have to get samples from the new horses in isolation. Oh, how was the appointment, all good ?"
"Yeah, cut back on salt and try yoga, the boys are doing fine. Hey, you want to do that with me, I need a helper."
"Sure, just let me know when."
"Georgie, you're ok not going to Alberta with Ty right ?"
"Oh yeah, I get it, their surgical seconds need the experience. It's weird, it's almost our first anniversary of coming, what a year huh ?"
"I'm so happy you're here Georgie." Amy said reaching around her for a hug.
Georgie squirmed after a few seconds "ok, ok, let's not go overboard."
Amy laughed "So no cake ?"
"Sure, you can get me a cake, I love cake. Keep her here I need to get some reins and a blanket." Georgie said nodding at Isabelle who looked at her and leaned forward for another nuzzle.
She was back a couple minutes later and climbed through the fence. Amy watched as Georgie attached a set of reins to Belle's bridle and showed her the blanket before arranging it on Belle's back.
"She looks fine with you Georgie."
"Building a bond, we have an understanding. She's a good horse boss, I'm glad she's staying."
"She was really responsive to leg commands when I rode her."
"Yeah, she's a good girl." Georgie said leaning over to run her hands over Belle's neck.
"Pizza at the house at 1:00 if you're back in time."
Georgie nodded, "I'll keep that in mind Wyatt's at the office with Charlie and Trev all day. Message for Nick or Bennie ?"
"Nope, both coming in this afternoon for an overall report with Bryce and Chuck."
"You're really stepping back huh."
"At this stage I have no choice Georgie, besides, I trust them all implicitly."
"If there's one thing I've learned in the past year boss, this is a great place to work and a great team, I've got to go."
"Have a good ride Georgie, text Gran if you're coming for lunch."
She watched Georgie ride away and smiled when Spartan leaned down for another snuggle. "Thank you sweetheart, go back to your friends Spartan, I'm going to check on the rescues." She moved her hands in a shoo motion and smiled again when Spartan nodded and turned to head back to his group.
The girls were both in the rescue barn brushing down their horses when she walked in. They all smiled at each other and Amy went from stall to stall absently checking their charts.
"Miss it ?" Charlie asked.
"Yeah I'm not entirely out of the loop but, it's weird Mad."
"Charlie mom."
Amy smacked her head lightly "I know Charlie my brain sometimes these days."
"Baby brain, it's in the book."
"That's it, baby brain."
She bent over for pets when the dogs rushed into the barn and listened for the tell tale hoofbeats of Jackson and crew walking past.
"Hey mom !" Jackson called out riding by to the family side.
She watched April and Cars go by a second later. Each rider ponied another horse alongside them.
"Go ahead, we'll finish with these two and check the others." Maddie said brushing out her horses tail.
"Thanks Mad, see you both in a little while."
"Follow !" She called out as she walked to the new stall-way to the family side where the kids had tied off their horses and Chuck and Derrick were helping them with their saddles. The dogs were behind her immediately.
"The other side is finished guys, take them over there please." Chuck said coming back while Derrick grabbed the third saddle.
"Ok Chuck, need help when we're done ?"
"We've got it Jackson almost done, don't make a mess please."
"We won't leave a mess Chuck."
"Thank you April."
"Hello Amy, how are the babies ?"
"They're fine April, thank you for asking. Ty has two pictures I think, are you coming to lunch, pizza at one."
"Pizza, I'm in." Cars said pulling over a stool to start brushing. "Oh, if I'm invited."
Amy smiled, "of course you're invited Carson and I think Bobby's joining us too. You two need me to contact your moms ?"
"Yes please." They both answered.
"I'll let them know. One o'clock guys. Don't forget to fill out their charts."
"We won't." Came the drone from the three. She waved as she turned out the front of the barn towards the medical barn and and again whistled for the dogs.
There were hugs all around when she met Katie, Barb, Annabelle and Violette in medical checking blood work and adjusting diets.
"How was being away Amy ?"
"It was nice and a little strange Vi, how's everything going here ?"
"Everything is good, another couple days and most of these are switching barns this week, two preliminary surgeries coming in next week."
"Show me around ?"
"Of course, if these three will check the rescue barn ?"
"On it." Katie said "come on team." She finished as the three seconds headed to the back tunnel to the other barn.
"Is Sarah around ?" Amy asked.
"In the surgical building with Ty and Bert." Vi answered as they started their rotation.
After her time with Vi whom she learned was working through the process of becoming foster parents and talking about adoption Amy made her way to the surgical building.
She found the three examining the latest blood work and x-rays on the three horses whose surgeries Ty would oversee. The plan was for him to observe and comment on the procedures which would be performed by Scott and Cassandra and their seconds.
"How's the brain trust." Amy said walking in through the open door to the conference room.
"It's good to see you Amy." Bert said getting up for a hug.
"Ty said everything is good with the boys ?"
"The boys are looking good Sarah, my blood pressure is a bit up but nothing serious and you ? I just saw Anna, she looks good, how's Crey ?"
"With Truman, getting in with his hillbilly center. He's having a ball."
"Good, glad he could get away. Two surgeries coming in ?"
"Florida and Kentucky." Ty answered getting up and slipping his arm around her waist.
Amy smiled when he leaned over to kiss her cheek. "Did you invite these two for lunch ?"
"I did and they're bugging out, Bert with Meg and Sarah with Anna and the seconds."
"Well, it seems that all my horses are doing just fine without me so I'm heading back to the house, seeing if I can be of help to Betty and when she says no putting my feet up. Maybe I'll watch a movie."
"We shouldn't be too much longer Ames, how abut after lunch I take you into town and we can walk around, book shop, music, thrift, Dolce Delight for a snack. I'll switch rounds to 5:00 which should give us a few hours together."
"Just you and me time ?"
"Just you and me time."
Amy smiled "that sounds wonderful Ty."
"Then we'll do it, I'll see you at 1:00 for lunch."
Amy hugged Bert and then Sarah and walked back past the kids who were now all in a group in front of the computer in the family barn along with Chuck, Mallory and Jake.
"You two all packed for the trip ?" Amy called out from where she was standing with the dogs.
Everyone turned and Mallory walked out. "Mostly except for the last minute stuff, you mind if we take Spartan and Harley ?"
"Not coming for lunch ?"
"Trail ride, picnic and getting a ponying assignment because we have a lot of horses."
"Sorry Mal, part of the job I guess."
"It's really not a problem, I hear the babies are good?"
"And I've got to cut back on salt."
"Not that bad, we'll see you for the big goodbye dinner later."
"Have fun Mal."
Lunch was served on paper plates with the food spread out on the kitchen table. As far as Amy could tell everyone then found a seat at the larger dining room table. As always the kids followed JT who took up his regular seat next to Ty who kept a smiling watch over them. It always brought a smile to her face at how good natured his reaction was.
"I think he likes it."
"I think he does too Georgie."
"You have plans for after lunch ?"
"Alone time with Ty, we're going to wander around town for a couple hours."
"Sounds nice."
''I like it in the summer, quieter, more like Hudson than full on school Ithaca."
"I remember the difference last year, it went from like zero to sixty in like a week."
"School is good for the town and there's something special about all the college kids coming and becoming a part of that but I like summers and holidays, sort of like a recharge."
"That and without the students you wouldn't have the vet school and AG center."
"That's true and it does't change a thing, I fell in love with this place Georgie."
"And the kids, Betty, Erma, Bert, Sally, Bryce, uhm …Charlie, Trev …."
"All of those things Georgie, I love Ithaca and all of those things."
"You two have a great afternoon Amy, I've got the kids."
"Except for Charlie, Bobby's got Charlie. How's the farm Bobby ?"
"Looks like a good year so far, mom's happy."
"Bumper tomato crop." Charlie added with a smile.
"That's good to hear, I love fresh tomatoes." Betty added.
"Like I said, mom's happy, we're doing good Amy."
"You two getting along Ok ?"
"Yeah, we've got a good settled routine, long days though. I miss hanging out."
"Not the life of a city kid for sure but today you get Charlie."
"Thanks for that, weeding with the woman I love is way better than weeding alone."
Charlie smiled "nothing says I love you more than weeding a tomato bed together."
"Sorry Charlie, I didn't mean ….."
"Robert Carmichael, there is nothing I'd rather do this afternoon than weed veggies with you."
"Nothing Sis ?"
"Nothing you're going to discuss at this table Charlotte." Ty mumbled.
"Yes sir." Charlie said mimicking her little brother.
Ty smiled and got up with his plate. When he walked past Charlie he leaned over and kissed her head which made her smile. "You two have a good afternoon Charlie. Mad, what are your plans ?"
"Horses pappa, always horses."
"Brin coming home this weekend ?"
"Going up to get her with Meg Friday morning and I can't wait."
"You two can help us weed." Charlie said with a laugh.
"Not likely sis."
"Ames, I think it's time." Ty said dropping his plate into the dishwasher.
"We'll clear."
"Thanks April." Amy said lifting her hand for Ty to help her up. "Let me just wash up sweetheart." She said to Ty walking past the table to the bathroom.
"That's code for peeing." Jackson added.
"Nobody needs the blow by blow Jackson, clear your plate and out."
"Yes sir." He answered in his way earning a hand over his head by Ty.
"I love you Jackson."
JT looked up and smiled "love you too dad."
Ty parked the Jag in a row between Charlie's Maserati and Trev's Mercedes, one car over from Wyatt's Mustang on one side and Stephanie's Alfa Romeo on the other. Amy waited for him to walk around to her side and help her out.
"That's some line of cars parked behind a charitable trust organization."
"Only two of these cars garner an actual salary so I think we're good Ty, Jag's not that more expensive than a new truck."
"That's true I guess. Where to first ?"
"Let's try books and music first."
Amy wrapped her arms around Ty's one and they decided to take the long way around to the Ithaca Commons the home of Autumn Leaves Books and Angry Mom's Records. She leaned her head against his arm as they walked the three blocks to the shops.
"Your coming to Ithaca anniversary is coming up."
"I know, Bert mentioned it."
"How do you feel about that ?"
"In what way ?"
"I'm happy you came Ty."
Ty smiled and stopped. He turned to her and leaned over to kiss her. After he put his hands on her belly, his eyes were moist and she reached up to touch his cheek.
He took her hand and kissed it as a tear fell from his eye "I don't have the words Amy, my life before compared to this, what I have now ?"
"Hey, hey, shhhh" she whispered brushing away his tear with her thumb.
"I'm sorry."
"No, you have nothing to be sorry about. We all feel the same, me, the kids, Betty. You completed us and we all couldn't be happier that you came."
They kissed again and turned to continue on to the commons.
Amy smiled as they crossed the last street "So you think they're actually weeding or necking in a field ?"
"Really ? That's seriously not a picture I wanted in my head right now Ames."
"Didn't occur to you ?"
"I don't know, I guess it did, do we have to really talk about it though ?"
"Yes Ty, ultimately these are things parents talk about. Just because we really had no parental supervision doesn't mean that we have to provide none."
"We had Jack."
"My grandfather thought it was perfectly Ok for Ash, Kit and I to be pursued by you and Caleb with you living upstairs and Caleb in a secluded trailer. I think we can do better than that."
"So what then ?"
"I don't know for now and I think we're good for the time being but I am planning on having a refresher talk with the girls."
"And me ?"
"And ultimately you will have a talk with Bobby but we're not there yet."
"Ok, well, good for me at least for now, I wouldn't know what to say."
"Of course you will when the time comes Ty, you are a great pappa, as long as what you say keeps that and your love for them first you'll be fine."
Ty sighed.
"Ty, they may not, but, it is unrealistic to think the girls won't have sex before they're married or even engaged or even considered legal adults for that matter. At this moment, it is unrealistic to think that their firsts won't be Sabrina and Bobby. It's just not, and I know that Tom has spoken to Bobby about let's call them, decisions involving others as have I had with the girls and Meg with Sabrina and just as sure as I am with all that, I can't promise you any of it matters. All we can do, is do it with our hearts and love and respect and hope that when they make their decisions, they do it as adults."
Ty sighed again and Amy smiled.
"Stop worrying. Today is not that day."
They had stopped against the building that housed both shops they were visiting.
"Ok then, books ?" Ty asked.
"Books." Amy answered, "are we staying together or splitting up ?"
"Hmm, not splitting up I think, have anything you're looking for ?"
"I have a list of children's books for the boys I'd like to get used if I can and then I generally check the rare stuff just to see and then wander."
"Sounds like a plan. What's on your list ?"
"Books about sharing, books about respect and something that really wasn't an issue to me when I read to JT as an infant, other couples."
"Other couples ?"
"Gay and lesbian to begin with. Stuff like "Heather has Two Mommies" since they'll most likely grow up where some of their nephews and nieces have two moms. I have seen grown adults walk right up to a 4 year old and ask if they were Ok since a gay couple held their hand. Central NY is a lot like Alberta in its' conservatism and it's not Ok Ty. Look, what you read to an infant is nothing really but still, you know it's something. I read Jackson these kind of books and whatever the girls were reading back then you know."
"Well, what you described is not Ok and it really ticked me off that someone had the nerve to call out Maddie and Brin for kissing hello at Ciao's. I get it and eventually the boys will understand those books."
They bought 7 books off Amy's list and made their way to the rare book section. It wasn't the largest room in the shop and they had to be let in which was fine as the owners knew Amy. Once inside they split apart and searched on their own. Amy sat down at the stall table in the room with two books, the first was "The Cowboy Philosopher on the Peace Conference" by Will Rodgers that she thought would be perfect for her grandfather. When she found that it was a first pressing she set it aside on their buy pile. The second was a signed, first edition of "Riders of the Purple Sage" by Zane Grey. Amy was sure they'd give her a deal on both and was actually surprised that they had both since she'd never seen them here before.
She looked up when Ty sat down excitedly. "Hey look at this, it's a signed by the author "My Side of the Mountain" boxed set of all three books."
"And ?"
"I could give it to Jackson, his birthday's coming up, we had fun reading and talking about them and it was our first."
"Fine with me. I can't promise he'll get the significance but the rest of us will. I'm getting this for Grandpa " She said showing him the Will Rodgers book.
"This is the comedian, satirist guy right ? Jack will love this."
"I think so, come on, let's check out."
Downstairs in the record shop they split apart, Amy to look at CD's starting in the kids section and Ty over to the vinyl, his new hobby which he, along with Wyatt, both took to enthusiastically.
Amy was in her own little world randomly looking at CD's so when she was a bit startled when she was approached.
"Your Jackson's mom right ? The horse ranch ?"
Amy turned "I'm sorry, lost in a CD, yes, Amy Fleming, Jackson's mom and I'm sorry, I can't remember anything these days, you are ?"
"Don't worry, I had it bad, Stephanie's mom."
"Of course Alice right ? Tompkins ?"
"Alice Tompkins, good for you."
"I've met your husband a few times, Bill right ?"
"Yeah, it seems Sunday is a good riding day so when the kids go out he usually dropped them, I volunteer Sunday. Anyway, I just wanted to let you know how much she loves it, she talks about it all the time."
"Well, It's our pleasure and besides, a kid riding means one less horse that has to be exercised for the day so one less for us to worry about. Do you or your husband ride ?"
She laughed "no, I mean when I was a kid on pony rides, but now, who's got the time ?"
"Well, if you ever want to give it a try let us know."
"Thanks, your husband uh, I'm sorry, Tom ?"
"Ty for Tyler."
"Right, Ty, sorry, Ty's invited Bill to stay."
"Again, the offer's open and I'm happy Stephanie enjoys herself. Well I'm done here I think, 5 off my list and 2 others that sound interesting."
"I'm done too, checking out ?"
"Actually have to go find my husband."
"You don't I'm here." Ty said walking towards them from the was holding a basket full of vinyl.
"Ty do you remember Alice Tompkins, Stephanie's mom ?"
"Bill's wife, of course, how are you ?"
"I'm good, I was just thanking Amy for letting Stephanie ride."
Ty nodded "I always invite Bill to stay, you're always welcome."
She laughed and looked at Amy "To exercise a few horses."
"Well yeah I guess." Ty smiled and Amy could see her staring at his eyes.
"Are we done Ty ?"
He smiled at her "Oh yeah, if you are."
Amy smiled "then let's all check out and get me a piece of ricotta pie and a decaf coffee."
"Dolce's ?"
Absolutely, join us ?" Amy asked.
"Unfortunately no, Steph's at the library with her sister and it's about that time."
"Go first then, we're just spending some us time, Ty's leaving on a trip tomorrow."
Alice put her CD's down "Where you heading Ty, anywhere special ?"
"Alberta, we have a family ranch up there and a couple businesses, hopefully just a week."
"And when are you due Amy ?"
"Well, this is twins and I'm ideally hoping to go just about 6 more weeks but we'll see."
"Twins, I hope you have help." Alice said swiping her card.
"Tons of help." Amy said moving her stack down the long counter that served as the cashier's station.
"You two have a nice day, it was nice running into you both."
"And you Alice, regards to Bill and kisses to Stephanie." Amy said as Alice waved and left.
"I wouldn't have recognized her." Ty said as the clerk started checking their merchandise.
"I didn't, she recognized me."
Ty shrugged "Should I know more parents ?"
"You know who to nod at when you're picking up or to say hi to at a school event but you really don't know anyone but your kids friends parents unless you're big in school like a PTA goer or a class mom or do sports on their level. You sort of get to know the class mom but that's about it."
"We're not PTA goers huh ?"
"That's all I need to fit into my empty school year schedule, PTA and soccer moms. We contribute." Amy said laughing.
Ty laughed "that is true, stop back at the car and drop these off ?" He said holding the bags they were carrying up the stairs.
"Yeah, let's do that, you can't properly stroll with bags in each hand."
They walked back the three blocks and turned into the shared foundation lot.
"Big brothers at 12:00." Amy said walking toward Charlie and Trevor standing by their cars and talking.
"Charlie, Trev." Ty said as Amy kissed each on the cheek.
"Shopping ?" Trev asked.
"Having some alone time before Ty leaves to Alberta."
"Anything interesting Ty ?"
"Hmmm, uh Allman Brothers at the Fillmore, Tito Fuente, Dance Move's and Arturo Sandoval, Swingin', a Ray Barretto, Live at Carnegie Hall, a bunch of others."
"You didn't by any chance pick up something decent to house your ever growing record collection and the shiny stereo did you ?"
Ty smiled loading the bags in the trunk "Tommy's sending me a design for a stereo rack that he can add on to."
Amy smiled "thank you my love, that's all I asked, are we dancing to this new music tonight ?"
"If you're up to it."
Amy smiled "I'll do my best, I'm sure the girls will oblige you when I'm tired."
"Trev ? You and Steph up to some after dinner dancing ?"
"She's in a video conference, I'll text you Ty."
"It won't be a late night Trev."
Trev laughed "I didn't expect it to be, but a little dancing never hurts."
"Heading home ?" Charlie asked.
"Dolce's for a snack and then home, you ?" Amy asked.
"Robin's making dinner and then bowling."
"Nice to have them there."
Charlie smiled and nodded "It's nice and Robin's a dream."
"Walk or drive Ames ?"
"Drive I think, we need to start thinking about getting home. Night boys, Trev it would be nice to see you and Steph."
"I think you'll see us."
After parking behind the bakery they took a two table setup by the window. They both ordered a slice of ricotta pie and coffee, both black and one a decaf and Amy asked for a dozen cannolis half dipped and half plain to go.
"So, good day so far ?" Ty asked after a sip of coffee.
"Braxton Hicks before in the barn, not terrible, aside from that the boys have been mostly quiet."
"You didn't mention the contraction."
"I just mentioned it Ty, Chuck was with me."
"I guess, yeah sorry, I can't help worrying."
"It's fine sweetheart, I wish you wouldn't worry though. Ready for Alberta ?"
"I've got everything visualized, we've gone through most of what could go wrong, Bert will be looking on, I think we're good."
"I know you're good Ty, you're an amazing vet."
"My biggest cheerleader. Should we head back ?"
"Yeah, I'm ready for my feet up and paperwork."
Ty smiled "Think we have time for a foot massage ?"
Amy pushed her chair back and Ty stood and put his hand out to help "so that's a yes ?"
"That's a let's head home and see."
Amy had no idea of the time when Ty leaned over and woke her from her nap. She remembered them making love and the dreamy aftermath of laying in Ty's arms as they recovered. Sex was interesting these days, slow and careful rather that their usual all out frenzy. The house was empty when they got home and after dropping the box of cannolis on the table and texting Betty to learn that she was out riding with the kids they decided to head upstairs.
"What time is it ?"
"Almost dinner, you need to get dressed Ames."
"I guess you tuckered me out, did you nap ?"
Ty smiled "No nap for me, I took Cars and April home then did rounds with Jackson. Come on, you need some clothes and Trev and Steph are coming by for dessert and dancing. Need help ?"
"Let me wash up and you can zip my dress."
Ty nodded and helped her stand. As always she stopped at the mirror and stood looking at herself for a second running her hands over her belly. She smiled when he came up behind her and put his hands over hers.
She leaned back and kissed him "home stretch."
"You're doing amazing Ames, I'm so proud of you."
Amy turned in his arms and lay her head on his chest for a second before heading into the bathroom.
She loved dancing, of course she never really did it much before Ty came back into her life. She particularly loved Latin dance, not only because Ty was good at it and loved it but because it was freeing. The movement and beat made her happy, doing it pregnant with twins caught up pretty quick and both her feet and her back were achy. Stephanie saw her and came over to sit as did Betty.
"Can I get you a cup of tea Amy ?"
"I thought you were heading to bed Gran."
"I'll go as soon as I get your tea."
"I'll go Betty" Stephanie said "what kind of tea ?"
"Espresso tea, double please."
"Ginger Steph, leave the teabag in." Betty said laughing "Goodnight Amy, kiss them all for me, I don't want to interrupt the lessons."
"Check on JT please."
"I will and he'll be fast asleep, how long is this going on ?"
"We're winding down."
Stephanie got up with her "I'll walk you to the stairs Betty."
They stopped at the staircase for a goodnight hug and out of earshot of the music room Stephanie asked "How's she doing Betty ?"
Betty smiled and took Stephanie's hand "she's fine Steph, you remember pregnancy, there are ups and downs it turns your life around and it won't be much longer. Carrying twins is hard and when they're born the twins will be hard too, I remember when the girls were born."
"We'll all be here for her and them."
"Of course you will. Look I think part of the problem now is that Erma, Sally and Meg and swamped. Summer is hard for them. How about you, Trish and Meg Koenig steal her away for a spa day, grab the girls too if you'd like. Ty's away, he's her comfort zone."
Stephanie nodded "I'll get that done and maybe a clandestine plan for company over the next week or two ?"
"That would be fine. I'll keep things going around here, I'll talk to Nick Sarah, Bridgette and Sandra. She needs to be a part of the horses, I think that's not working out as well as we'd hope, her stepping back."
Stephanie smiled "we'll get it done Betty."
"Ok then, I'm off to check on JT. Not too much longer Steph."
"We'll leave after the tea Betty, thanks for the talk."
She watched Betty head up the stairs and texted Trish and Meg while she set up Amy's tea. "Pick a day please, spa day with Amy next week, no excuses."
On her way back to the music room she received two successive texts, the first from Trish which read "Tuesday" and the second from Meg, "I can make Tuesday happen, set it up."
Steph sat down next to Amy and handed her the mug. Amy was watching the girls dancing with Ty and Trev.
"They're getting better at this." Steph said as Amy took a sip and sighed.
"Spa day Tuesday ?"
Amy smiled "Just us ?"
"Trish and Meg and the girls if you'd like."
"I'll check with Betty."
"Already done, I'll check with Erma about taking Jackson for the day if you'd like."
"I'll talk to him and see what he wants to do, he can stay with Chuck and Betty if he wants."
"You do that then and I'll make all the arrangements."
"Thanks Steph, that sounds great."
"What sounds great ?" Ty asked coming over with the girls and Trev.
"Spa day Tuesday, girls care to join us ?"
The girls looked at each other and grinned "we're in" they said simultaneously.
"Ok, that's always going to be weird right, we can agree on that ?"
"Get used to it Steph, two more on the way." Maddie said with a big smirk on her face.
"With excess testosterone, should be fun." Charlie added.
"Horses tomorrow, bed now girls, we'll close down." Ty said laughing. "Babies first, all that testosterone comes later."
Both leaned over and kissed and hugged Amy first before Ty, Trev and Stephanie and waved as they left. Ty shut down the stereo and they both walked Trev and Steph out onto the porch before hugs and kisses goodbye.
Back in their room after checking on the kids Amy immediately turned her back on Ty and he undid her zipper and unsnapped her bra, their typical evening routine these days followed by Ty massaging her shoulders, back and feet accompanied by Amy's sighing in relief.
"Better ?"
Amy laughed "I don't even know how to answer that at this stage."
Ty sighed "I don't know what to say Ames, I'm sorry just seems wrong."
"I'm sorry is wrong because neither of us is sorry and I don't have second thoughts about any of this but boy, does my back ache at the end of the day."
"Have you talked to Miriam ?"
"I'm 5 foot 5 carrying twins Ty, this is my life. Some relief but on the bright side we're in countdown mode to no sleep so …."
Ty smiled "well, maybe the yoga will help ?"
"Maybe, probably should have started earlier but it was nice being at the other house with everyone. It'll be fun to spend the time next week with Georgie and Robin. You all ready for tomorrow ?"
"Yeah, all packed, staying at the ranch house. Mal and Jake are staying at the dude ranch."
"Lisa and Grandpa are excited you're all coming."
"I need to shower, early morning."
"What time are you leaving ?"
"Nine o'clock flight out of Syracuse, leaving here 7:30, shower with me ?"
"I'm getting horizontal, I'll shower in the morning."
"See you back here ?"
Amy laughed "where would I go ?"
Ty leaned over and kissed her and smiled "I'm going to miss you Ames."
Amy pulled him back down for another gentle kiss "Then we'll miss each other my love. Go shower Ty"
The text came right after she heard the shower start, checking it and responding brought a phone ring a few moments later.
"Hey Lisa, how's everything in Alberta ?"
"Everything's great, just checking times for Ty's arrival tomorrow."
"He's in the shower but his flight is scheduled for nine out of Syracuse so figure if they're on time and with the time change he'll be in Hudson by noon your time."
"And they're dropping a car off here in the morning ?"
"For Mal and Jake, Ty will drive from the airport. How's the new house ?"
"Decorators have been crawling over everything for two days, a load of carpets and furniture got delivered yesterday first thing. I'd say it's pretty much done."
"It's pretty weird not being able to see it, Ty promised to do a video tour but it's not the same. If everything works out maybe we'll come for a long weekend in November."
"Jack and I'll do the walk through with him and the engineer on Sunday, I'm sure it's beautiful Amy. How are you feeling ?"
"Six weeks or less I guess to go, it's not too bad, I'm taking it slow and easy and going with the flow. My blood pressure's normalized so that's good, I really didn't want to go on the meds."
"I don't blame you."
"How's Grandpa doing and everything else ?"
"He's doing good, saw the doctor yesterday which went very well. They took the last of the stock horses which is great and gives him tie to relax. Katie's been riding out to the herd, spending more time with him which he loves. The new Maggie's seems to be doing good, Lou's talking about a second truck, has she mentioned it ?"
"We did talk about it, I think waiting for late fall early winter is the way to go, she also needs to work on permits but I think it's a good idea especially if they can take on line orders, we'll see."
"Betty and the kids ?"
"Heading back to the other house on Wednesday, I'll have Georgie, Robin and the gang here with me, oh and a spa day on Tuesday which should be nice. Sounds like he's done want to hold and say hi ?"
"Plans for the kids birthday ?"
"It'll go on whether I'm home or in the hospital, I don't know what to say at this stage Lisa. The safest time for me to have the boys is basically the same time and the odds are I'm not going to have a choice, these guys are coming when they come."
"That's for sure and the kids will understand Amy."
"I know they will but missing their birthday will bother me. Ty, it's Lisa, she wants to touch base."
Ty was wiping his head while walking over and dropped the towel on a chair before taking the phone.
"Hey Lisa, how's everything ?"
Amy took the time to head over to the bathroom and got back as he was getting off the phone.
"I'll send them all your love Lisa, see you tomorrow."
Amy got herself set up on her left side which was the only way she was now comfortable sleeping though she still woke through the night for a cacophony of reasons. Ty moved up behind her and put his hand over her as well as he could these days. Amy's hormonal desires had waned and for a variety of reasons, not the least of which was her size and much to both their disappointments they took comfort in their touching and closeness rather than hours of lovemaking. Besides the afternoon was still fresh in their minds. Both were satisfied with the arrangement for the time being and were asleep soon after Ty turned off the lights.
Amy opened her eyes at 5:05 and sighed realizing that she'd never get back to sleep especially since she had to use the bathroom. She imagined that Ty had set his alarm since he was traveling so she settled in her chair with her iPad, email and texts. Not being much for social media she checked both Facebook and Instagram which took her all of 15 minutes only because she looked over the girl's posts and checked in on Sabrina and Bobby.
As she thought it would, Ty's phone went off at 5:45 and she smiled watching him reach over to turn it off and then reach over for her. Finding the bed empty he opened his eyes and a moment later saw her sitting across the room.
"Hey you Ok ?"
"I'm fine sweetheart, sleep Ok ?"
"I did, how about you ?" He said moving to a sitting position.
"As well as could be expected I guess, it's hard to remember."
He made his way across the room and wrapped his arms around her from behind and kissed her neck several times before she turned her head to meet her lips.
"I'd better get going I want to stop in Medical before I leave. Any plans for today ?" He had moved into the bathroom and they held their conversation with Ty's head poking out the door every now and then.
"Not that I know of but the day is still young. Maybe I'll spend the day with Nick and watch the jumpers, maybe something else will come up."
She waited until he was dressed and walked out behind him and his suitcase following him down the stairs to the kitchen where they found Betty as Amy expected ready to send Ty off with a good breakfast. Coffee was already brewed and a fresh mug was being poured the minute they entered.
"You didn't have to get up just for me Betty." Ty said sitting down and taking a sip "but thank you."
Betty smiled and leaned over to kiss his head which made Ty blush "Tea Amy ?"
"Yes please Betty and eggs I think."
"Ty ?"
"Whatever she's having is fine Gran, thanks."
"I have Gruyère and spinach ?" Betty asked with her head in the fridge.
"Sounds lovely." Amy said "Anything up with you today ?"
"Food shop I think, Jackson asked to swim so maybe I'll take him to the pool later, I assume the girls are with the horses all day."
"With Georgie I think." Amy added.
Betty joined them as they ate quietly each in front of their iPads.
"Horses are stable so we're still on for tomorrow Monday and Wednesday." Ty said checking an email from Cass. "Inspection is official for most of the day Tuesday."
"Lisa and Grandpa are planning to join you."
"Good because I'm sure to miss something along the way."
"Lisa's got good eyes." Betty said.
Ty laughed "I'm sort of counting on it, maybe I'll ask Lou to stay."
Amy took a final sip finishing her tea "Don't worry too much Ty, contractors at this level know the routine and we've got a six month repair clause. It's a big space."
"The caretaker ?" Betty asked.
"Meeting him on Thursday, Lisa said he's great and knows horses. Same deal as the Grayzel's actually, husband and wife team and she has a small cleaning company she runs on the side."
While Ty headed off to medical Amy went up to shower and dress for the day. She joined Betty on the porch waiting for Ty to get back and was soon joined by Jake and Mallory who wheeled their bags over from their apartment over the barn. They decided to stay there rather than the house with the understanding that one or both if they chose would move into the large guest room next to the master when the babies arrived.
"Looking forward to visiting home Mal ?" Amy asked.
"Eh, hasn't been home for a while Amy."
"Still seeing your old haunts should be nice and you're staying at Heartland."
"It'll be nice sitting on that porch with Jack. Jake's folks sold the ranch and moved into a condo. I guess seeing my folks will be nice, not too much, just enough."
"It's only a week Mal."
Jake laughed "we'll be fine Amy."
"How's working for Chuck Jake ?"
"Chuck's great, it was a little weird at first, you know perceptions and all but Chuck's a good boss and listens."
"I trust Chuck as much as anyone, I'm glad you gave him a fair shot."
"Ty's coming." Mal said which made them all glance towards the barns.
"And here comes Derrick who I guess is doing the driving." Amy said as a ranch suburban pulled up to the house.
"You all ready ?" He said getting out of the truck and heading to the back to open the swing gate for the luggage.
Jake got up and brought down his suitcase while Derrick grabbed Mallory's.
"Send my love to your and Jake's folks Mal."
"I sure will Amy." Mallory said.
Both Derrick and Ty reached for Ty's bag at the same time which made them both smile "I've got it Ty, say your goodbyes."
"Thanks Derrick" he said before leaning over to kiss Betty. "Take care Gran."
Betty hugged him tightly and kissed him again. The kids had come down a little while before and had just finished their cereal came out next and the twins each got a hug and a kiss followed by Jackson getting hoisted up for his.
"Don't give your mom a hard time you three."
"We won't." Jackson promised as Ty lowered him back down.
He looked at Amy who smiled "I'll walk you to the truck." She said lifting herself a bit awkwardly to stand and take his hand. At the truck they kissed and he wrapped his arms around her gently.
"You take care of yourself wife."
"And you husband text me when you land please."
He nodded and smiled his hands now softly on her belly.
"We'll be fine Ty, try to have a good time. Send our love to everyone."
"I promise."
"Gotta go Ty." Derrick said softly from the driver's seat.
He kissed Amy one last time before heading over to the passenger seat and getting in. They all waved as the truck backed up and pulled away with Ty's hand lingering for a moment out his window waving as they drove the road to the Pegasus gate.
