Chapter Fourteen

The Aftermath – Getting Ready

A/N – Ok, so I definitely took a diversion from the norm but my pen had me take a reader's idea and put a slightly different twist on it that I hope you enjoyed. My intention was not only to highlight our young couple but to show again the quality of this family and the people that work for the Equine Center. I also reinforced the caring and love this entire group has for the work they do, which was gleaned by our young Trent, who showed an understanding well beyond his years. The Bordens and everyone around them continue to show us what happens when you are committed to each other completely. I will spend a little time in this chapter finishing the accident storyline up. Then I promise we will get this family ready for their amazing trip, which now will be more than welcome. I am going to bring some old family friends back into the picture and make an effort to make sure that our almost vet as well as his fiancé receives the accolades they deserve. But the trip is looming and I am really excited to share the fun with you. My reviews are down a bit so as always don't stop providing me feedback and story ideas. I can't tell you what your genuine interest and feedback means to me. Mature Content – Enjoy!

RRR (Reader Review Responses) Again, thanks to Guest for your review. Your comments and ideas are greatly appreciated and welcomed. A reminder, these are reviews I cannot respond to directly.

To say that the next day was a whirlwind would be an understatement. The main focus was the horses as always but the accolades were coming in strong both at school and at the ranch. The morning after the accident, Wyatt and Lyndy were all over the news channels and newspapers. By the time they went to their first class they had been overwhelmed with congratulations and praise for their efforts. They also received some chiding about the kiss on the cheek which was everywhere as well. As Wyatt walked into his first class he received a standing ovation and noticed that the Dean and Director of the Equine program were waiting for him. As the class settled, the dean spoke up, "Well Mr. Miller, it seems you and your family had quite an evening. I can't begin to tell you how proud the University is to have you as one of our students. I know you have some pretty good mentors but you and the team from the Equine Center are a perfect example of what Veterinary medicine is all about." He smiled and continued, "And based on the videos and pictures all over the media, you seem to have a fiancé who really cares for you." Everyone laughed as Wyatt blushed. The director for the program spoke up looking at the professor of the class, "We will let you go, but Wyatt, we see that you and Miss Borden have a slight break around lunch and we would like to meet with you at the main office. There are others who want to thank you and get some detail of what happened and the plans for the horses. We want to help where ever we can. Wyatt smiled in agreement and shook their hands as the left. The professor called them to order ad class began. Lyndy was also receiving praises as she went to her classes. It seemed the story had reached everyone before they even arrived at school and like Wyatt she was asked to come to the Dean's office at their lunch break. Annie, Addie, Maddie and JT were also overwhelmed with attention as everyone wanted to know what had happened and how the horses were. Lou and Lisa were inundated with media request and were busy setting up for the press conference they were having at noon now in the main ring on the ranch. There were request from over 100 people to attend so the ranch hands busily prepared the area as Clay, with Rusty's help set up their portable sound system and ran additional power lines. The 8:00am meeting went well and everyone had their assignments. On top of the 18 new rescued horses on site they still had a few other client horses to tend to, although the owners understood that they were also dealing with the accident aftermath. Ty and Soctt took the lead as Ty laid out the day. "First off we do have other facilities to man so Mandy and Ellie, along with their teams will handle the clinics in town. Scott and I will see how our surgical patient is doing and also tend to the horse with the broken lower leg. Cass and Steven check on the other two more injured guys and them get with Ellory to see how our new visitors at the Rehoming Center are doing. We all need to be prepared to the noon press conference and will need to give an overview of the care as of then. Also Amy will give a general overview of the mental stability of the horses as along with Haley, Georgie, Katie and Ellory they will spend time with each horse. You guys should all be there as well. I have also asked Ellie and Mandy to come as well so the media understands this is a team effort." Lou laughed, "In the business world we would be using this as a marketing tool but you all know that is not us." Scott spoke up, "My wonderful wife is right, we are all about the horses and that is what we need to focus on when we meet with the press." Lou also warned, "We are going to be inundated with press and request for interviews. Lisa and I will do our best to control that but just be aware. We are confident that our message will remain steady and clear, it's all about the horses wellbeing." Everyone dispersed and went on their way as it was going to be a busy morning.

Mingled in with their regular work, the team checked out all of the horses from the accident the night before. The swelling on the leg of the other injured horse had subsided and Ty determined the injury was less severe than thought. He scheduled surgery that afternoon and with Scott decided that Wyatt would scrub in. After they would repair the damage the horse would be left to recover slowly with checkups daily until he was ready to move on. One of the techs had grown fond of the horse and asked Ty if she could adopt him and he readily agreed but made sure she checked with Amy and Ellory. It had been decided that they would be overseeing all of the horses and who they would go to. The Animal Control team was all for it and were relieved that the Equine Center would handle it. Ellory had already receive over a hundred request from prospective owners, Even Jenn Stillman, who had just lost her horse had one picked out when she and her sons came to help out at the Rehoming Center. Scott checked on the horse who they operated on yesterday and she was doing well. The sleeve was in place and stable and the belief was she would fully recover. For now she was elevated in a sling but they had already begun putting some slight pressure on it. He talked with the two techs working with her, "Let's keep an eye on her but tomorrow see how she reacts when you lower her to the ground for the first time. Any sign of stress and hoist her back up." They understood and thanked him for his trust in the care of the horse. Cass, Ty and Steven looked over the other more injured horses and Amy met with Ellory to look over the dozen or so at the Rehoming Center. All seemed well for the most part and they all carried on. They planned to meet at 11:30 to have a quick lunch and prepare for the press conference. Lou laughed talking to Lisa, "Good idea on the snacks and drinks for the press and media, it should soften them up a bit." All of the vets, Ellory, Lisa, Lou, Georgie and some of the senior techs would be there. Katie and Haley were working with some client horses and couldn't make it. Ty, Amy and Scott would give an overview of all of the horse's conditions and then the team would answer questions. Lou and Lisa were still going through all of the interview request, the most exciting for them with their friend Sam and Alex on Good Moring Calgary. Several other stations had requested and the CBC Morning Show also asked for one but they would have to come to Toronto. Lou wanted to do it but agreed to do it but only if they could do it via live stream from the ranch. As they sat enjoying a quick lunch the press core was gathering and it seemed to also include some members of local government, the RCMP and Animal Control authorities. Lou noticed them and offered them a chance to join them to answer questions. As they were about to start Amy' phone rang and she smiled immediately recognizing the number. She answered, "Maryanne, what a surprise, how are you?" She listened intently as her face told the others it was something important. She looked at Lou, "Can we set up a quick call with Justin and Maryanne, he wants to say something to the press on our behalf." Lou nodded of course and looked to Clay to sync up Amy's phone to the sound system they had set up. Amy spoke to Maryanne and told her they could speak first and it would be 5 minutes or so. The teamed came in and sat at the head table and Lou got the press corps to settle. She took the microphone and began to speak to the group with a smile on her face.

"Welcome to the Marion Fleming Equine Center and thank you for coming. It has been a pretty hectic 18 hours but we wanted to take a moment to speak to you about the accident and how all of the horses are doing. I just want to say that when I was in the business world things were done for a reason of marketing and adding profits. At the Heartland Equestrian Expereince we are all about the care of horses and all of the other animals we care for. That is the love that drives us all to be the best we can. In less than a day, I believe we have shown again that this is what we do. I am proud of my family, our staff and the company and this event has just reaffirmed to me what we are." She took a moment as her emotions were coming out. A reported spoke up, "We agree Lou and by the way the snacks and drinks were a bonus for sure!" Everyone laughed as she settled. "Well before we have the team give an update and we field questions, we have a special message from a friend of ours. Ladies and gentlemen, please welcome the Prime Minister and his amazing wife, Justin and Maryanne Trudeau." The crowd had muffled conversations a bit as Justin began to speak, "Good day everyone, Maryanne and I appreciate the opportunity to speak to all of you about this amazing group of people and the work they do. We have been good friends with Amy and Ty Borden for many years. Heck, they even gave our eldest daughter Haley a job of which I understand she is doing right now." The group chuckled again. "And to be honest, what has occurred, it is no surprise to us at all. The love they have for the work they do is unmatched along with the love they have for each other. We are benefactors of that love and I for one cherish it. On behalf of all the people for this great country and our family we want to thank them for what they have and will be dong for these horses in need." Everyone clapped appreciating his comments. Maryanne spoke up, "I wanted to add that all Albertans and Canadians are privileged to have such a dedicated and amazing group of people as fellow citizens. They are great at what they do and we expect that all the horses will be better for it. But most importantly they are an unselfish group that are there to help these amazing and beautiful animals and I for one could not be more happy to be their friend." Again everyone applauded appreciating her words." Justin continued, "One more thing, "I understand that young Wyatt Miller and his fiancé, Lyndy Borden were the ones that stopped to help initially and some may say it is surprising that they did. I say that, knowing them both and their family, I expected nothing less. They emulate the legacy of the Borden family and what they do. Amy, Ty please tell them how proud we are of them and how happy we are for their engagement." After another round of applause, Maryanne spoke up, "And tell Haley we love her and to get back to work." Everyone laughed as the Trudeau's said thanks and goodbye. Lou thanked them and let the group know that Ty and Scott would now be giving an update on the horses after quick comments on the accident from the RCMP. The spokesperson for the RCMP walked up and took the microphone, "Well as you all know, last night around 6pm, two tractor trailers loaded with horses were stopped side by side at a light. Another fully loaded tractor trailer failed to stop and struck them both in the rear, compressing both horse trailers. The driver was not focused on the road and barely hit his brakes. Both horse trailers were damaged extensively and laying on their sides. When we arrived, a young man, Wyatt Miller was working with a few other bystanders to try to free the horses who were all struck and screaming in agony. It was something I will never forget." He took a moment and continued to the stunned group. "We found later that they were heading to a slaughter house and the drivers fled as we arrived on the scene. We have some leads on them and the people that hired them and we plan to find them and charge them for this heinous act." He took a breath, "One more thing, withing 30 minutes it was amazing. SUVs and Trucks came up on the scene and a couple of dozen people from the Equine Center team piled out. Ms. Lyndy Borden helped up make sure they had a place to park and were escorted to the crash site. There were 5 vets, one almost vet and an assortment of techs and college students there. Amy Borden, Georgie Weber and Katie Foster were there too and began to settle and calm the less injured horses. To say it was impressive is an understatement. Along with the Animal Control folks on site they immediately went to work and just on time two very large horse transports came on site and once ready they moved the horses to the center for further treatment. It all took less than an hour and I have to say that from an emergency response time that was beyond impressive. Those horses owe their lives to these kind and caring people."

He stepped away and Lou brought Ty and Scott up. They took the time going over the status of the horse that had surgery and the other that was being operated on this afternoon. Scott gave a detailed review of the most severely injured horse and that the sleeve operation was successful. He smiled, "The horse has eaten and pooped this morning, which is really good. This afternoon we plan to lower him from the surgical hoist and begin putting a little pressure on the legs. From there the horse will tell us what to do." Ty stepped in and talked about th other horse, who he described had two fractures in his lower front left leg. "After the swelling came down we found the injuries to be a little less severe and this afternoon we will surgically repair them. We will have Wyatt Miller join us as well as a group from the University's Equine program who will be there to observe." They also had Steven and Cass talk about the other horses with deep cuts that needed almost immediate attention. Cass spoke, "The two other badly injured horses had deep cuts and abrasions that we addressed on scene and then again when we got them back to our medical center on site here. We needed to sedate them both in order to take care of the wounds that involved a large number of stitches. The trailers they were in were in very poor condition and we believe some of the cuts on all of the horses were older and not caused by the accident." The crowd grimaced at the condition of the horses. Steven then spoke, "We triaged the other horses and most just had smaller cuts, abrasions, bruising and some strains. By the time we all got on scene, Lyndy, with some help had rounded up the less injured horses and settled them until we arrived. The other two were still on their sides and they stayed with them as well." Ty spoke up again, "Unfortunately we did have to euthanize two horses on site. When we arrived, after Wyatt's quick review of the horse's status, Scott and I went into the trailer and after sedation put them down. They had lost a lot of blood and their injuries were extremely severe. We feel it is not something that we need to share. Wyatt did an amazing job settling them and making them comfortable before we arrived." Lisa stepped up as it seemed that the team seemed a little distant. "Hello, I expect most of you know me, I am Lisa Stillman. Although Jack and I have stepped away from the business I can attest to the fact that these people are the most caring and committed individuals I have ever met. I am not saying that because most are my family but because they truly are. Lou has said it already but we don't do things for the fame and glory, it is not about the bottom line. For us at this amazing company, it is the care of animals that is our only focus." At this point a lot of the staff had wandered into the press conferment as Lisa finished her comments, "I would like all of the team members her to join us up front. Along with the horses who are fighting for their lives, these people around me are the real heroes today." The crowd erupted in applauses as cameras flashed and television videos were live. The team hugged and congratulated each other and as things settled, Lou asked for any questions. Hands flew up so Lou picked the first on she saw. "Hi, I am Hanna from the Herald, I was wondering where Wyatt Miller and Lyndy Borden are, I have a lot of questions to ask them." Amy stood up smiling, "Well they are at school. They are in their final semester and with Spring Break coming, they are very busy with their studies." She smiled, "Ok, Dr. Cardinal, the procedure on the most severely injured horse, the sleeve procedure, is that not an innovation your team created?" Scott stepped up, "Well it was the combined work of Ty, Cass and the team at the University. We had a concept and worked together to develop it. The sleeve is inserted just under the skin and is meant to stabilize the injuries. We have used it successfully for several years on all types of animals and it is successful the majority of the time." The next question came from Sam at Good Morning Calgary as she giggled waving at Amy and Ty, "Hey guys, first off we can't wait to have you on the show again but more importantly. Is it true that your daughter and our young hero are engaged?" The group gasped quietly as Amy smiled, "Well yes Sam they are. He proposed over the holiday but no date is set. They want to finish school and Wyatt wants to be certified as a DVM before they tie the knot. Ty and I along with all of her siblings and family are over the moon. We love Wyatt very much and as you all have seen, he is an amazing man." Everyone smiled as more questions came and were answered. Lou stepped up and told them one more since the team needed to get back to work. A reporter form the Sun who was on site asked, "Mrs. Cardinal, when your husband and Dr. Borden put those two poor horses down, I watched several of the team gather around them in silence with their heads down. What was that about?" Jack stepped up pulling Lisa into his arm, "I'll take that one. I am Jack Bartlett and this amazing lady is my wife. Years ago my horse Paint had to be put down. He was my friend and was with me for many years. At the time his health was failing and he dropped on the hill just outside the Heartland ranch house. My son, Ty, helped me put him down and it was peaceful and calm for my Paint. After the entire family came up from the house and we just stood in silence to pay our respects to him and his passing. From that day forward, every horse that has left us, both family and client, get the same treatment. Any time a horse passes the people there stand around them and help them make their journey." Complete silence fell on to the crowd as sniffles and hugs abounded. After a few moments, a teary eyed Lou thanked them and promised that they would be providing regular updates over the next few days. Amy, Lou, Georgie and Katie when to Jack and embraced him as cameras flashed. He was their hero today as well.

They next week and a half was a whirlwind for the Borden family and the entire company. The attention on the horses they saved was relentless and Lou found herself needing to have updates at least once a day. She decided after the first couple of days to do them with You Tube videos, which was Clay's idea, so they set up a You Tube channel just for it. This way they were able to have anyone be able to access them and gave a visual update on the horses as well. She was also juggling the on-air request and radio interviews along visits from all sorts of dignitaries and media. She had sat with Lisa, Scott, Ty and Amy and decided some parameters in order to allow them the time to treat the horses and still keep up with the regular business. Each person also had a chance to add individual video updates on the two surgeries, the more severely injured horses and the horses at the Rehoming Center. Outside of Jenn Stillman and the one tech's request for a horse, Ellory had received over 200 requests for adoption, especially the ones who were rescued. Luckily, she also had about 15 other horses they were preparing for adoption so it was a win-win for them. And on top of everything, business was booming as more and more people heard about them and wanted their horses to be treated by this amazing company. The most difficult pair to handle was the overwhelming number for request to interview Wyatt and Lyndy. They had decided that school had to take precedence but they did go on the Good Morning Calgary with their friends Alex and Sam. The interview was on a morning when they had late classes and Amy and Ty joined them. As always, the interview went great and they made the young couple feel comfortable and at ease. While there, live on the show, Alex discretely asked them about this engagement, "So you two, first off Lyndy I remember years ago when you first were on our show with your mom and dad, do you remember?" Lyndy blushed, "Kind of, I was pretty young." Sam laughed, "Well let's take a look at it." Here eyes opened wide as they played the tape of when she was on. Wyatt, Ty and Amy laughed a little as she was embarrassed, especially when she answered a question with her 5 year old voice. She smiled, "Wow, that was a while ago." Alex then asked Wyatt to describe what happened the night of the accident. He took his time and in a composed manner went through the details. He ended by saying, "I have been a part of this family for many years and one thing I learned is that I have the ability to jump in and help. I have watched Amy and Ty along with others around me always step up. To be honest, I didn't even think about it. When we came up on the accident, I jumped out of the truck and Lyndy was right behind me, grabbing my vet bag which was in the truck." Sam smiled, "Were you scared, it had to be a pretty horrible scene." Lyndy grabbed his hand and spoke, "First off, Wyatt was amazing and to be honest we didn't even think about it. It was like a reflex and we just got to it. Wyatt went into the truck where the two horses were that had to be put down by my dad and Uncle Scott. His focus was on comforting them as he knew they would not survive. After he finished he moved to the other more injured ones as I gathered up the dozen or so that are at the Rehoming Center now. It was not until afterwards when help had arrived that we both realized what had happened and broke down in each other's arms. But in the end we knew we helped which was all we wanted to do." She took a breath and Wyatt put his arm around him and smiled. For a moment, the group was quiet, not even knowing what to say. Finally Alex gathered herself, "Well that is something. So Ty and Amy, how are the horses doing?" They took a minute to give an update and Amy stressed how many people had requests in to adopt the horses from the accident." Before they ended, Wyatt had one more thing to say, "I just want to say how amazing the RCMP and Animal Control people were. And before the calvary arrived, several bystanders helped as well. We all love what we do but to see that type of caring and concern was pretty cool." Alex and Sam closed out the interview thanking them and congratulating Wyatt and Lyndy of their heroic efforts. Everyone back at the company had watched the interview and were proud of them and what this company stood for.

As the weeks continued the energy from the event let up a bit. Lyndy and Wyatt were honored by the University and the City of Calgary. Justin and Maryanne set forth a proclamation that reaffirmed how amazing the Heartland Equestrian Experience was, recognizing their efforts in saving the horses. Although the accolades were welcomed, the family and others were happy to be back to normal, although now the request for their services was as high as it had ever been. They were at maximum and ended up bringing on a few more vet techs and creatively used some of their space for more horses. Amy, Georgie, Katie and the team were handling things, but it was busy. The vet team welcomed the extra techs and were pleased when the university also sent some extra support. Even some other vet clinics sent help for Mandy and Ellie as business at the two clinics was booming as well. One afternoon Ty was working on an injured horse and Wyatt was helping. He smiled, "I can't wait for you to get you official license, as you see we need the help." Wyatt smiled, "I can't wait either, although graduation and getting married is kind of exciting too." Ty smiled, Oh yeah there's that too." With the excitement of the accident fading the kids all had two things on their minds. First they all had exams coming up before break so the focus was to end strong. The family study sessions had stopped but the college kids kept up a study group with their friends. Maddie did the same with her friends and JT, Trent and Shawna spent time studying as well. One thing was still there though, the Borden kids were still there for each other and if needed any one of them would help a sibling without question. It was something that Amy and Ty loved and expected that as they had families the practice would continue. Secondly, although not as important, they were getting ready for the big trip. Several shopping trips finally resulted in everyone having what they needed and the Saturday morning logistics for departure were in place. The Borden's, along with Trent and Shawna would leave from the Miracle Ranch. The other three boys would meet them at the airport with Desi driving them. Wyatt and Lyndy's life became somewhat normal but request continued to come in from local and national media as well as their classmates and professors. The University made a school wide proclamation and recognized their efforts in a public event hosted by the Dean and President of the school. Ty, Amy, Scott, Lou, Lisa and Jack attended as the duo was awarded a declaration of their work and the way they represented their family and the University. Lisa leaned into Lou during the President's speech, "Man, he is really playing this as a recruiting tool, but it is kind of nice." When asked to speak, Wyatt thanked the University leadership and the Equine program team for their guidance and role in their education. He then thanked his family, specifically the ones in attendance with him and Lyndy. He smiled, "These six people are very important to Lyndy and I and we hope we can achieve a fraction of what they have done in their lives. Specifically GG Jack, who was not only a rodeo legend but the true patriarch of this family and someone I personally look up to and love." Jack smiled and tipped his hat to his future great grandson in law. He finished by thanking everyone and saying how excited they are about graduating soon and the fact that they were going to Cabo in a few weeks. Everyone laughed and applauded at the same time. Addie and Annie with their friend group were at the event as well and afterwords went up to hug their sister and soon to be brother-in-law. They were so proud of them and what they had done but as Addie would say, "Like they would have just not done anything." Before the older folks went back they all had lunch in the cafeteria at a table reserved and food provided just for them. Throughout lunch several people came to the congratulate the group. Lyndy and Wyatt sat close stealing a kiss every once in a while. Jeremy quipped, "Good lord you two, you are just like your parents." Everyone laughed as Ty spoke to Jack. "So why aren't you harassing Wyatt like you use to with me when I tried to show affection to Amy?" The table went silent in anticipation of his response. He cleared his throat and answered his son. "Well I guess there are two reasons, I am getting soft in my old age or I might just like Wyatt better." The table sat still as Ty pouted but soon erupted in laughter at his comments. Everyone knew the bond that he had with Ty and now Wyatt. If Jack Bartlett respected you, it was for life.

Maddie and JT were not free of the positive fallout from the accident but their focus was on school and their friends. JT spent a lot of time with Trent, who seemed to be doing really well. They spent their free time at the Rehoming Center, helping to care for the rescued horses and were really enjoying it. Trent bonded with one of them and Ellory told him that is his parents were Ok with it he could adopt it. He rode some but JT promised to help him learn and when she heard about it Maddie did as well. JT felt as though having a horse would be good for him and help him deal with him coming out and the abuse he suffered. His mom would always tell him that horses are therapeutic and could become best friends with their owners. JT spoke to his mom and sisters and asked for their help seeing how important is was to Trent. Everyone was looking forward to the family having dinner the Friday before the they left as their parents told them they would be talking about the trip. Also exciting for them was that they also wanted their guest to come as well. Family dinners were always fun but this, in JT's eyes, would be epic. The remaining time before their dinner went by slowly as test and business were all consuming. Amy and Ty were sitting in the office Friday morning, looking though emails, both yawning at the same time. She laughed, "Well we are a lot of fun, I think I could fall asleep right here." Ty laughed, "Well if you weren't so needy last night we could have gotten a little more sleep, I mean come on." She smirked, walked over to him and sat on his lap. "Well, I didn't hear you complaining lover boy." They kissed and it continued to grow in intensity. They didn't hear the knock as Haley and Katie came in. They both screeched and together said, "Sorry, we can come back." Amy pulled away a little flushed and smiled, "It's Ok, Ty can't resist me. What's up?" They talked about a new horse that was coming and how the two horses who had surgery were doing. Ty asked how her family was doing and when her mom was coming. Haley laughed, "Well since we are all over the news again, I think both of them are coming as well as my sisters too. I won't lie, it will be good to see them. I think they are now coming the week after you guys get back which is their break." Amy smiled, Yeah your mom and I talked last night, it will be awesome to see them all." Katie glanced at Ty and spoke, "Ok, we will leave you to it, carry on." The two young women blushed and hurried out. Haley laughed whispering to her friend, "Those two are something." Katie laughed, "Well, look at all the kids they have." Amy got up and clicked the lock on the door, looking over to the loveseat suggestively. She smiled, "I have 45 minutes." Ty added, I have an hour." Ty stood up and Amy jumped into his arms letting him swing her around. Their lips locked and tongues danced with the other. They stumbled to the loveseat as Amy giggled, "Well Dr. Borden, what is on your mind." Without any words he latched on to her ear lobe and began unbuttoning her shirt. She was in sync doing the same to him. It seemed they undressed in record time and soon were intertwined in a loving embrace. Ty kept up the momentum kissing her and touching her in all the right places. He moved to her breast and tasted them completely as Amy moaned in enjoyment. Her hands were busy with his manhood as he hardened quickly. Soon his hands joined the fun between her inner thighs. The office was pretty soundproof as their sounds of love increased. Ty laid on his back as Amy lowered her self onto him easily. Their movements were fluid but limited due to the small couch, but they made it work. Amy was breathing heavily as she continued to make love to her husband. Ty increased his pushes as she arched her back with an orgasm. He was close but tried to make sure Amy was completely satisfied. She moaned his name and they exploded together like they always did. They knew this was probably not the best place to do this but their love for each other won out. As they calmed, Amy looked at the clock, "Shit, I have 5 minutes." They both laughed as they threw each other their clothes and hurriedly got dressed. Amy got out her brush to make sure she looked presentable as Ty finished buckling up his belt. They checked each other out and approved but Ty smiled, "You look beautiful, although I prefer your previous look." She cooed kissing him passionately, "Later my love." They walked out to get to their work hoping no one had seen or heard them. Katie and Haley saw them as they scampered away and Katie whispered, "Look at them, they did it for sure. Amy has quite the glow." Haley smiled, "So does Ty, those two are something else."

It was the Friday before they were leaving and the big family final planning dinner was about to start. Everyone was excited and relieved that their last few weeks were over. School had been tough for all the kids but they all felt good about how their exams went and were ready to let loose and have some fun. The Borden kids had also been really busy with the extra horses and generally helping out where they could at home and their friends had helped a lot to. Desi laughed before they started, "Mr. and Mrs. Borden, you guys sure have a lot going on. I am whipped after school and all the other stuff going on." Addie smiled warmly at her boyfriend, "Well you better get used to it, that is how we roll in this family." After she said it she blushed a little as what she said seemed to infer that he would be a part of it, which secretly she wanted. Annie smiled to her feeling her thoughts and added, "You mean our family Adds." The group chuckled quietly understanding. The rescued horses were all doing well especially the two that had surgery. Wyatt added, "Hey the horse with the sleeve has been on her feet for a week and seems to be doing well and the other one is basically walking everywhere.. When do you think we will take the sleeve off?" Ty smiled, "Well, Scott will check him out while we are gone and we will probably remove it a week or two after we get back. The Equine program folks want to be there and we are thinking we may do it at the university surgical arena." He smiled more, "I guess you want to help?" JT spoke up, "Of course he does dad, he is the hero of Hudson, the Miracle Boy, and Lyndy is the 2nd Miracle Girl in the family now too." They all laughed as Lyndy and Wyatt reached over to tickled him relentlessly." Maddie then spoke up, "Rickly, Gwen and I were helping Ellory the other day and the horses there are all doing great, even the two that we added who had the bad cuts. She said that five of them are already claimed by people here including Mrs. Stillman and Trent. She has also received over 300 request for them and hopes she can get some of them to take the other horses she has. Did you know she got 10 more horses from a breeding center that closed. It is crazy over there." Lyndy added, "Man they are really going to need our help over the next month or so." They all agreed shaking their heads yes. Ty noticed Amy seemed quiet and her eyes seemed to be a little misty. He clutched her hand under the table and with his eyes asked her if she was Ok. She finally spoke, "Dad and I are so happy that you have been helping. Of all the things we do, connecting a horse with a new owner is the most important." She took a breath as a tear came to her eye, "My mom and grandma would be so proud of all of you and how much you care for the horses." Everyone smiled as tears were forming in her daughter's eyes as well. JT broke the solemn mood, "Well I know they are. A few nights ago we all talked and they said how excited they were about everything we have been doing for the horses we rescued. Wyatt and Lyndy, Grandma and Great Grandma are really proud of both of you. Grandma Lilly joked about how we were calling you the Miracle Couple. Mom, they love the Rehoming Center and are so happy were are helping so many horses." Amy smiled tearily as he continued, "And Grandma said Ellory's grandpa is very proud of her as well. They said they see him from time to time and he is proud of you and dad as well. She said that we were all his Niciwâm and Nīcisānak. I looked it up and that means friends and family." Ty spoke up, "Well little man, that is great and Huten was very important to your mom and grandma. Mom and I had troubles when we were very young when I left for a while. Spartan had been stolen and I helped her get him back, but he was off. Ellory's grandpa help mom reconnect with him and actually me. I went to pick her up to tell her that I loved her but fumbled a bit. Not too long after that we went to help some horses at the fishing cabin and we finally opened up and said we loved each other. When he helped mom I think she realized how amazing I was and that she couldn't live without me." They all scoffed and Annie spoke up, "Nice dad, way to ruin a really cool story, even though we have heard parts of it before." They all laughed as Amy leaned in to whispered in his ear, "But it's true." JT blurted out as the doorbell rang, "Thank goodness the food is here. This lovey dovey stuff is about to ruin my appetite."

Amy and Ty had been emptying the refrigerator since they would be gone so tonight it was pizza and salad. The girls set up a buffet and when the food arrived they made sure everything was set out. Everyone went through and fill their plates. Amy and Ty offered to clean up as long as the kids would settle the horses in. Katie, Clay, Rusty and Haley were going to take care of them while they were gone and Ellory, who loved dogs, would take care of Buster and Billie. The family and guest enjoyed the pizza and conversation. Ty asked, "Ok everyone, let's go around the table and everyone tell us what they are looking forward to the most on vacation." Amy said, "I'll start. I know we spend a lot of time together but being away for a week in a beautiful place with the ocean on our doorstep seems pretty magical. But more than that being with you guys and your "friends" will make it even better. Dad and I know we can't be together forever in the same house," She stopped for a second to gather herself as Ty put his hand on her shoulder. "Sorry, dad and I love you all and are so proud of you and we just want to let you know that." Addie laughed wiping a tear away, "Mom really some positive thought please." She continued as they all laughed, "I love my life in Hudson and this guy kind of. I can't wait to see the beach, water and my boy here in a swim suit and no shirt." She fanned herself as Desi blushed and her sisters in unison said, "Amen to that." Ty looked at Amy worriedly as she whispered, "Honey, they are adults." Others mentioned the ocean and all of the toys they had at their disposal. Annie was looking forward to tanning in her new bikini and Jeremy's eyes went wide. Wyatt chuckled, "Settle Jeremy, I think our biggest problem is going to keeping the boys away from our hot girls and their swimsuits, right dad." Ty laughed, "Trust me men, I know your pain, I for one can't wait to see your mother in her suit." Amy blushed and smacked him, "Ty!" Lyndy took the floor, "Well, being with my man is awesome but being with all of you is going to be amazing. I know as we grow up we will have our own lives but I never want to lose this, lose you. I want to be sitting at the table with our families eating a meal as our kids playing in the yard. I am also really excited about graduating and having my fiancé become a vet." She smiled lovingly and kissed his cheek. "Oh and I guess I am excited about getting married too." Now it was time for Wyatt to smack her but a little more gently." Maddie spoke up next, "Well all of that stuff, especially the no shirt thing, but I can't wait to experience something new. I mean we have gone places before but another country, in an amazing condo, with its own beach and fun toys. Dad will someone teach us how to use them?" Ty smiled, "Yes when we arrive the owners will have the property management team meet us and how to use all of the toys will be a part of our orientation. It seems that this place has a lot of gadgets in the house as well. Also the place will be stocked with food and there is a number to call to order more, all on the owners." I am glad we decided on 7 nights, it is going to be awesome." Amy interjected, "It is amazing but we need to respect the place and the gift. These owners have been very accommodating and very nice, let's not take advantage of it. They heard about the horse rescue and sent a note of congratulations to dad and I. They recognized you and Wyatt, Lyndy and said they would expect nothing less from our family. I think they were impressed." The group got quiet as the ever opiniated JT spoke up, "Well I would expect all the gushiness but for me, I am just looking to have some fun and relax with my two best friends. You older people can do what you want but for me, it's chilling by the pool with a drink that has an umbrella in it." After a moment of silence the room exploded in laughter and the eating and conversation continued. Maddie noticed that Shawna seemed to want to say something. "Hey Shawna, what's up?" She dipped her head and whispered so only a few could here, "I kind of like th no shirt thing as well." Maddie high fived her and they hugged as JT and Trent looked at them clueless.

After dinner the visitors left, the Borden kids took care of the horses as Amy and Ty cleaned up. Ty walked around the house inside and out to make sure everything was in order since it would be empty for a week. Clay and Rusty promised to look it over from time to time so that made him a little more comfortable. When the kids came back, they were asked to bring all of their checked luggage down by the front door. In the morning as the girls got ready, Ty, Wyatt and JT would load up the cars. The plan was to get to the airport early, since they were going out of the country and then grab some breakfast. Everyone headed off to bed and alarms were set as the bathrooms would be busy. Lyndy snuggled into Wyatt's arms as happy as ever. "I am so excited about, I don't know if I will be able to sleep." Wyatt leaned back, "So are you more excited about this trip than our honeymoon." She pondered the question, "Well I guess our honeymoon will be a little better." Rather than respond, he pulled her close and kissed her passionately whispering, "Well I figure we can do a little honeymoon practice, you game?" She lunged forward and increased the passion. It would be a while until they fell asleep. In Amy and Ty's room they were busy making sure they had all of the passports, e-tickets and other paperwork. They already had the extra passports and emergency information collected as well. They had decided to rent two large SUVs that could carry them all and Ty and Wyatt would be the drivers. The place also had two golf carts that they could use. As Amy organized things, Ty checked off his list. She laughed, "You sure like your list. Remember our first trip with Lyndy, your list didn't last long." He smirked, "Yeah but we didn't have a dozen kids to take care of and weren't going to Mexico." She smiled in agreement. They finished and Amy got ready for bed with her usual routine. They had already set out their travel clothes and the alarm was set. He sat in bed looking over some brochures about Cabo and looked up. As usual he was mesmerized as he watched the love of his life get ready for bed, a routine that still sent chills up his spine. She looked over and smiled, "What are you looking at Dr. Borden?" He blushed a little, "The most beautiful woman in the world, who I can't wait to see in a bikini." She laughed, "Well you with no shirt won't be too bad either." She finished up and climbed into his arms. She smiled into his chest, "You know listening to the kids talk about the trip was really fun and really felt good, I think they are all excited." He smiled, "Well are you?" She pondered her comment, "Hmm. Let's see, a week in the sun with my family and my man, not too shabby. Are you excited?" She moved her hand down below his stomach and felt his excitement. She smiled, "It seems so, but we have to get up early." He moaned, "We can sleep on the plane."