A/N: I apologize for taking so long to get this next chapter posted. A lot of life has been going on that has been time-consuming as well as having a bit of writer's block for a while. I hope you find it to have been worth the wait.
Chapter 61: Arena Dedication
The golden orb shone brightly in a clear turquoise sky early Monday morning as the final week of the extended Cutty family being together dawned. There was much to be completed, planned for, and enjoyed before things would return somewhat to normal for the smaller Cutty threesome. However, a true normal had yet to be discovered by them, so it would be a new experience re-settling in together when all the company was gone, though only for a short time.
Since school was out, Lyndy was especially excited to finally get to be more a part of things, and of course, Skye was always at her side…and often in her arms. They'd become inseparable. After morning chores were completed, the men all worked on getting the arena flooring laid and evenly spread. It looked like the drainage was going to work exactly as planned. Amy broke away every chance she got from her work with Logan to see how things were coming along. She couldn't begin to express how thrilled she was with the wonderful gift Mitch was blessing her with and all it would mean for her being able to work year-round. With their little one on the way, the extra income would help.
Amy took time on Monday to make calls to invite their family and friends for the dedication. It was too hard when she talked to her dad and Grandpa to keep secret dedicating the arena to Marion, so she asked them to keep that part to themselves until Saturday. They were both moved by the sweet gesture and thought it was a perfect idea. Also, when she talked to Grandpa, she asked about Lyndy spending Wednesday night with them. He took a moment to check with Lisa about schedules and said they'd love to have her! He'd missed his girls something terrible, so he was delighted Amy had asked. He knew the rest of the family would be, too. Amy said she'd drop her off early-afternoon on Wednesday, yet she also didn't want her to miss too much of the last week with the current visiting family. Jack said he could have her back to Whispering Meadows around lunch time on Thursday.
As for Mitch, he grabbed every chance he could when Amy was otherwise occupied through the week to work on his project. He hoped to get most of it completed when she made the trip to Heartland to drop Lyndy off since he suspected she might stay and visit for a while. He'd also employed his mom and Aunt Helen to help with keeping her occupied as they were able to. Fortunately, Amy had a pretty heavy client schedule through Wednesday morning, and the rest of the guys were handling the finishing touches to the arena in stride. It was basically finished by the end of the workday Tuesday, but Mitch got his dad and uncle to prepare a place for his surprise. He also asked his dad if they could set aside Wednesday night…that he and Amy would like to talk with them about something. Doc assured him that he'd let his mom know, and they'd plan on it. Of course, he wondered what it was they wanted to talk about, but he knew it must be important for Mitch to ask for a special time, and he would tell them when he was ready.
Wednesday proved to be a fairly busy day with people going in a lot of directions. As soon as Lyndy got up Wednesday morning and helped Skye take care of business, she got her things together for staying at Heartland that night. She was looking forward to seeing everyone there. As Amy dressed that morning, she made sure to wear a loose-fitting blouse just in case. She and Mitch could tell she was starting to get a slight baby bump, and though she didn't think anyone else would notice yet, she wanted to be on the safe side. When they got ready to leave, Lyndy promised the Cutty clan, "Don't worry, I'll be back soon!"
Arriving at Heartland, they found everyone inside, and lots of hugs were given. Lou and Lisa had plans to make cookies with Lyndy, so Amy hung out with them while they did. She'd missed being there, too, but she had nothing to complain about with her new life. Lots of catching up was done, and everyone said they were looking forward to Saturday. Amy got in more than one Dad and Grandpa hug while she was there. Lou caught her up on the latest with the Dude Ranch and plans for Maggie's. Amy was pleased to learn that Lou and Jessica would be working together on the plans and that Jessica had agreed to an active role with the cabins and the café. It would keep her plenty busy along with her photography, but Amy could sense she liked being active and especially being more a part of the family operations.
Meanwhile, earlier, Zeke and Charlie had brokered a deal and volunteered to check the fences at Heartland the following day if Dax and Ike would agree to spend the day checking them at Whispering Meadows on Wednesday. Their pals bestowed the favor on their friends to provide the two love-struck guys extra time to be spent with their special ladies. With building work completed, Charlie had the ok from Mitch to take Claire on a horseback ride as soon as chores were done. Claire donned her riding gear, and when she arrived in the barn to help saddle up the horses, Charlie thought she looked quite chic, though he wondered if that was the right word. He just knew she looked stunning to him! Zeke was planning to help Nina out with both lunch and dinner prep and going for ice cream together in the afternoon, so he agreed to let Claire use Beau for their ride. They got Luna and Beau saddled up and headed out with stars in their eyes. Charlie had packed a picnic for them and already had a special shade tree picked out for their date. They both enjoyed the time alone to continue getting to know each other even more. As they leisurely sat on a blanket that Charlie had spread under the tree eating the lunch he'd had Nina help him prepare, their conversation turned to some possible future options. Charlie only lacked a few courses to complete a degree in Ranch Management. He'd wanted to get practical experience to be sure ranching was what he really wanted to do. That was what had brought him to work for Mitch. Though he enjoyed the ranching, at times, he'd had thoughts of teaching, maybe even in a university. As he shared that with Claire, they talked about him exploring finishing his degree and getting a Masters in Agribusiness and Agricultural Operations. Claire encouraged him that as outgoing and personable as he was, he would make a great professor. And Charlie learned that Claire had a really good-paying job in Calgary as a Certified Dental Technician. They were both thinking along similar lines about a possible future together, though they didn't voice their thoughts out loud to each other yet.
Mitch made quick progress on his project while Amy was gone, and all he needed to do now was put the final coat on. He would ask Jack and Tim to help him with the presentation. He was pleased with how it had turned out, and he looked forward to being able to surprise Amy.
Amy returned home in time for the evening meal. With Claire, Nina, and Logan joining the hands on the patio, the Cuttys had a rare time for it to be just the six of them together in the dining room. All were excited for Claire's interest in Charlie and seeing the change in her demeanor and spirit. Every so often, they heard lively conversation and much laughter drifting in from the patio. As the supper conversation continued, Mitch and Amy communicated with an understood look.
Mitch cleared his throat and began to introduce what they'd planned, "Dad and Mom, I know we'd asked to speak to you this evening, and we originally planned to speak in private, but with your permission, we think it might be beneficial for Uncle Mitchell and Aunt Helen to hear what we have to say as well?"
Doc looked to Ginny, and she nodded to him, then Doc answered, "Son, if you think that would be helpful with whatever it is you need to speak with us about, we trust your judgement."
"Thanks, Dad. As you all know, in a few months, Lord willing, we will have a new little one added to our family. Amy and I have been talking, and even though we have Nina's help with meals now, we know that it's going to be a big change in our lives, especially for Amy in maintaining her business. Also, I know you originally sold Saddle Road because, at the time, my life was unsettled, and you couldn't manage it by yourselves. Things have changed a lot since then." Mitch took a breath and looked toward Amy to see if she seemed inclined to continue. She took his queue.
"Doc and Ginny, I know we haven't known each other for a long time yet, but as you know, I lost my mom quite a few years ago. I've missed her terribly, and especially at times like this." Amy paused just a moment, touching her belly, and continued with a bit of a catch in her voice, "But Ginny, in the time that we've gotten to spend together, you've felt more like a mom to me than a mother-in-law. What Mitch and I would like to ask the two of you is, would you consider moving back here to the ranch? We don't mean to live with us, but if you are willing to think about selling your condo, we were thinking perhaps we could build you a cottage here on the property; or maybe even go with a prefab home to lessen the time and labor it would take?" Amy then sat quietly waiting for their response.
Ginny's eyes glistened as she and Doc looked at each other. He waited for her to be the first to respond. With a quiver in her voice, she answered, "Amy, you've touched my heart so deeply. At times I've imagined having a daughter, and after these last couple of months, with the time we've had to get to know each other more, I couldn't imagine a better daughter than you. I love you, Honey," and as they both got up from their seats, they met in a teary hug. In fact, everyone else had unshed tears threatening to spill over. As they broke their embrace, Ginny said, "It's obvious that you've put some thought into this already. Let Doc and I have some time to talk it over, but I kind of think I know what our answer is going to be."
Mitch and Amy smiled at that, and then Amy added, "Well, while you are talking about it, there is something else we'd like to propose and want to know your thoughts. A little while back, Mitch and I updated the will Ty and I had. We named two couples in it that we'd like as a first and second choice to care for our children should anything ever happen to us. Of course, it's something we hope never needs to be acted upon, but as we all know, nothing is for certain. We felt good about our choice at the time, but it's just feeling more and more right that our first choice should be the two of you. We realize that your age could be a factor for you, but we would have two backups if it proved to be too much. Will you consider the possibility of being guardians for our children, were it ever needed?"
Ginny and Doc looked at each other, a little overwhelmed, but feeling incredibly complimented. Mitchell reached over and squeezed Helen's hand as they gave each other a tender look having been touched and feeling proud of these two 'kids.' Doc answered this time, "Mitch and Amy, we'll talk it over and give you an answer, but no matter what, we want you to know how deeply touched we are by your request. You know we already adore Lyndy, and we are so excited about welcoming the coming little one into our family, we can hardly stand it! Mitchell and Helen, what are your thoughts about all this?"
Mitchell first answered, "Well, it's a lot to consider, but we are all family, and please know that we will be here to help in any way we can whenever needed."
Helen added, "Both are most touching requests. We are so happy for all four of you, or should I say five, almost six, for the newly created family with which God is blessing you. And I second what Mitchell has said. We're family, so you know we'll always be supportive in any way we can."
Doc then added, "Let Mom and I talk about it tonight, and pray about it, and if possible, we'll try to give you an answer in the morning."
"That would be great, Dad!" Mitch replied, and Amy tagged on, "It means so much to me that you will consider it! And would you both be okay with me calling you Mom and Dad?"
"Oh, Honey, we would be honored!" Ginny joyfully replied, and the three of them hugged. As they broke their embrace, Ginny commented, "Well, this has been a most unexpected surprise! Perhaps we should finish up dinner, clean up and then head to bed so we can consider and weigh what we've talked about tonight," and all agreed.
After reading together and settling into bed, Amy asked Mitch, "Do you think their answer will be yes to both our requests?"
"Sweetheart, I really hope so, but I do want you to be prepared that their moving here might not happen quite as quicky as you are hoping, should they say yes. Knowing Mom and Dad, and being realistic about things, they may need to be allowed more time than trying to make it happen before cold weather sets in," Mitch answered trying to help soften any disappointment she might be in for. "If they agree to come, it does give me peace of mind that we can be close by whenever the time may come that they may need more help from us. I'm really happy that you feel so close to my mom, and that you may have the chance to have someone play that role in your life again. I know you've really missed your mom."
Amy looked at him with tears in her eyes, "I know this is probably partly pregnancy hormones making me so weepy, but I really have. I know life is not fair, but it has been hard not having her here for all those important moments in life…and just the everyday stuff that she was teaching me constantly. It took me quite a while not to blame myself for the accident." (*1)
"I guess we are both good at blaming ourselves for things we didn't have any control over," Mitch reflected, as he wrapped her in his arms, and she laid her head over his heart. As the rhythm of their breathing came into sync, they drifted off to sleep in love's embrace.
Doc and Ginny discussed the requests they'd received from the kids before they laid down to rest that night. They even asked Mitchell and Helen to come talk with them for a bit to further get their perspective. With Amy being due in February, they agreed there would not be a lot of time to get a house ready before cold weather and the possibility of snow set in. Even with a prefab home, it would mean figuring out the timing and praying that God would bless them in their plans before getting into early Fall. The other option would be to wait until late Spring after the baby had already arrived. Even though that might not be as much help to Mitch and Amy initially, the second option really seemed like the best all-round. They'd already done so much building that Doc was feeling a break was needed for him, and it would not rush them so much in selling the condo, getting a good price for it, and having more time to get things in place for a move. If they were younger, sooner might work, but they had to be realistic. If it was ok with Mitch and Amy, they decided Ginny could come back to help out for a time right after the baby was born. Helen mentioned that she could take a turn or two helping as well until they could make the move if Mitch and Amy would welcome that. It would also allow the young Cutty family a little more time for the four of them to bond as a family by themselves. In any case, they believed it would be wise to bring Nina in on whatever was decided to be sure she was open to helping when needed. They both felt incredibly blessed that Amy wanted them nearby. God had answered their prayers for Mitch beyond all expectations. As for the guardianship request, there was no question that they would agree to Mitch and Amy's desire, though they prayed such a time would never come. They couldn't feel more honored to have been asked.
The next morning, before Lyndy got home, they gave their answer to Mitch and Amy, and talked through some details including talking with Nina. She was most agreeable to helping in any way they needed. Amy was a bit disappointed that the move wouldn't happen sooner, but she knew it made sense not to rush it, and she agreed it would be good for them to have their new family together for a time by themselves. Together, they scoped out the location for the house. There was a great spot about one hundred feet or so either way from the main house and the bunkhouse that would be perfect. The more they talked about the possibilities, the more excited they all became. They knew Jack and Lyndy were expected back soon, but they decided since they'd not shared news of the baby with the rest of the family yet, they'd wait to let them know about the moving plans.
Jack brought Lyndy back home right before lunch. He was invited to join them and happily agreed. He also enjoyed seeing Logan again. Everyone was called in to eat, except Zeke and Charlie who were still riding fence at Heartland. Lyndy had stories to tell about her overnight stay, and Jack and Doc got to catch up. Jack also had a chance to get to know Mitchell a little better when, after lunch, the two of them gave Jack a tour of the new arena. Before Jack left, Mitch gave him a heads up about his special gift to Amy and that he wanted to ask for Jack's and Tim's help in presenting it to her. Jack was once again touched by Mitch's love and thoughtfulness towards his granddaughter and the family and said he would alert Tim to the plan. He was so happy for Amy and Lyndy and the life they were all building together. How far they had come from the years of grieving! He knew from experience that the pain would still raise its head at times most unexpectedly, but it did his heart good to see Amy so joyful. He felt so grateful he had lived to see her happy again.
After Amy went to bed that night, Mitch stayed up a while, and when he was certain she was sound asleep, he quietly escaped to his workshop to put the final coat on his gift.
Friday morning after morning chores, the ladies and Lyndy all went on a horseback ride together. Amy was trying to get in as much riding as she could. Nina had limited experience with riding, and she wasn't super confident yet, so she rode Harley, and Lyndy rode on Shadow. They were out for about an hour and had a wonderful time. It had been a few years since Ginny and Helen had ridden, and it felt good to them to be back in the saddle again. Throughout the ride, Lyndy's caring heart caused her to stick close by Nina's side, concerned for her feeling inexperienced, but by the end of the ride, Nina was gaining much more confidence. It especially pleased her to have the chance to increase her skill since she was falling in love with a cowboy.
Friday night at the Cutty house was sure enough a celebration with all Whispering Meadows invited. They cooked out, the ladies made cinnamon rolls for the next morning, and they sang, played games, and enjoyed being together knowing some of them would be departing soon. It had been a full, busy, and profitable time together as strangers became family over the weeks of working side-by-side with the added blessing of unforeseen blossoming love.
Around nine-o-clock the next morning, guests began to arrive to the sweet aroma of warm cinnamon rolls and coffee. Orange juice was available, too. As each one arrived, they helped themselves to the sweets and stood around visiting until everyone assembled. The crowd was made up of all the Whispering Meadows clan and all the Heartland clan as well as the O'Dells, Jade, Parker, Clint, and a young lady named Miley (*2) that Logan had asked if he could invite. About thirty minutes later, they all moved to the arena where Mitch gave them a short tour and also talked about the special flooring and how they'd happened upon choosing it.
Then Amy stepped up to speak, "We are so pleased to have all of you here today to celebrate this amazing gift my dear husband, along with lots of help, has created for Serenity Stables to flourish even more. Logan and I are especially grateful, Mitch!" Amy said as she looked directly at Mitch with an appreciative smile, and Logan nodded in agreement. Mitch beamed at his lovely bride. Amy continued, "We know this place is going to be special and afford us many opportunities we would not have had, especially Logan and me, to use the gifts God has given us. Because of how special this place is, and that my gifts were initially inspired and developed in me by my amazing and incredibly talented mother," Amy paused just a second as her voice had faltered, then continued, "Mitch and I have decided to name it the Marion Fleming Arena." (*3)
That pronouncement brought smiles, an "awe" or two, and clapping from all those gathered. As the celebrating died down a bit, Mitch nodded toward Jack and Tim who slipped out and around the side of the entrance for just a moment to where Mitch had earlier hidden his project. The two men walked back in carrying a beautifully carved and finished, wooden plaque about three feet by five feet, and on it:
Marion Fleming Arena
Est. July 1, 2023
Lovingly dedicated to a master horsewoman.
1961-2007
Mitch noticed tears in Amy's eyes and went over to stand beside her wrapping his arm around her. She reached up and kissed him on the cheek, and when she could speak, she said, "Darling, it's beautiful! What more could I ask – a brand new arena, dedicated to my mom, and a sign lovingly crafted by my incredible husband. I'm overcome with joy, Sweetheart! Thank you!"
Mitch blushed a little as he said, "You are so welcome! I love you so much!' and he hugged her tight.
Lyndy came over to her mama and hugged her, too. She looked up and said, "I wish I could have known my grandmother Marion."
"Oh, sweet girl, I wish you could have, too! You would have loved each other so much, and there was so much she would have taught you. I'm just going to have to try to fill the gap as best I can."
"Mama, you are! You teach me every day!" she exclaimed, and Amy squatted down to hug her again.
Everyone looked on the tender exchanges and were so happy for them! Most took a closer look at the sign admiring its craftmanship, then the ladders were brought out, and Mitch and Tim hung it in the already prepared spot centered above the main door. It was perfect! Visiting continued for a bit before the group began to break up to go about their day.
Saturday night at Whispering Meadows was a bit melancholy, but everyone tried to keep their spirits up and make the most of the remaining hours they had together. Lyndy and Skye helped keep them entertained for part of the evening, and Lyndy had been teaching him tricks. He was actually picking up on them quite quickly. And of course, Zeke, Nina, Charlie, and Claire were on their dates.
Charlie and Claire were both doing their best not to let the sadness they felt at having to say goodbye the next day overcloud their date. To prolong their time together just a bit more, Charlie agreed to attend church with Claire the next morning. However, as they walked hand-in-hand to the porch to say goodnight, Charlie put himself out there, "Claire, I know we've only known each other a short time, but I REALLY like you a lot! I also can't imagine you leaving tomorrow without something important happening between us. Would it be okay if I kiss you?"
Claire shyly grinned and nodded her head, then looked up at Charlie expectantly as he took her face in both his hands and slowly and gently placed a warm, tender kiss upon her waiting lips. The experience was even more than they both anticipated.
As they pulled apart, Claire whispered, "I'm really going to miss you!"
"And I you…so very much!" Charlie affirmed. He held her in a longing hug before she reluctantly turned to go into the house. Just before she closed the door, Charlie said, "See you in the morning," and Claire blew him a kiss before disappearing as it shut. He felt a little bereft and knew that he'd be putting a lot of miles on his truck in the coming weeks.
For Zeke and Nina, their talks were getting deeper and deeper. Though things seemed to be moving rather quickly in their relationship, they realized that they were also seeing each other every day and had been for a good number of days now. Zeke was becoming surer by the day that he wanted to spend the rest of his life with this beautiful woman, so he began making a plan. He would talk with Mitch about it soon, but he laid the groundwork for it on their date.
"Nina, how are you feeling about your job at Heartland? Are you thinking of it as just a job to get you to the next one, or is it something you could see yourself doing more long-term?"
Nina looked pensive for a moment and suspected there was more behind Zeke's question than met the eye, but she answered, "I am really loving it here! Mitch and Amy couldn't be better to work for, and…" she said as she coyly looked at him from underneath her luxurious dark lashes, "I met you, didn't I?" She lightly chuckled as she answered him, and the dulcet sound of her laughter caused Zeke's throat to tighten but his lips to turn up at the corners, and he leaned in to capture her mouth with his in a tender, expressive kiss that caused warmth to flow through Nina in a way she'd almost forgotten. In fact, Zeke awakened feelings in her that were more intense than she'd ever known. She'd had no idea that day that she nervously interviewed over a month earlier what a wonderful change was awaiting her! It seemed like 'when you know, you know,' and she wondered if a day in the near future was coming when Zeke would express to her that he wanted them to be a lifetime. She really hoped so!
The Cuttys, Claire and Charlie all attended church the next morning. It had been a while since Charlie had been in church, but he enjoyed being there and not just because of Claire. He was reminded of his upbringing, and it provoked thought in him that he should get serious about getting back to his roots.
They returned home, and while the guys were visiting in the living room as the ladies were getting lunch ready, Lyndy climbed up into Doc's lap and put her arms around his neck and looked him in the eye, "Papa Doc, do you and Gram-Ginny and Uncle MaC and Auntie Helen and Claire really have to leave?" she asked with pleading eyes punctuated by a disheartened voice.
"Honey, I'm afraid we do. It's time for you and Mama and Daddy to have some time together without so many people around."
"But I like having lots of people around. I think you and Gram-Ginny should just come and live with us," she stated emphatically.
Doc caught Mitch's eye, and they were taken-aback, but only for a moment as he replied, "Well, that would be fun, wouldn't it? We'll just have to see what the future holds, but we are certainly going to miss you! However, we'll be back from time-to-time, so you'll see us again," and he kissed her on the head.
"Make it soon, ok?" Then she leaned up and kissed him on the cheek and tightened her arms around his neck in a long hug before getting down and calling Zeke to sit in her lap.
About that time, the ladies called everyone into the table. They all had a wonderful Sunday lunch together. Ginny and Helen had done preparation Saturday afternoon since Nina had the day off, and it made getting it ready for everyone go quickly and smoothly. Dishes were done and vehicles were loaded, and long goodbyes were reluctantly said with lots of hugs being given. On the side porch, out of view, one lingering kiss was given to Claire before walking her out to where everyone else was gathered.
As the two families pulled out, Zeke gave Charlie an empathetic squeeze to his shoulder. Charlie glanced at him looking downcast and said, "I think the weeks now are going to seem a lot longer."
"I get it, buddy. Wonder how many new tires you'll need to buy?" Zeke teased him to lighten the mood, and they both laughed. Then, Whispering Meadows began the transition to a new normal…until the next guest would arrive.
A/N: (*1) The death of Amy's mother, Marion, happens in Season 1, Episode 1 of Heartland.
(*2) Miley is someone that Logan becomes interested in starting in Season 16 of Heartland. So far, she has been in Season 16, Episode 11 and Season 17, Episode 3.
(*3) A photo of what I imagine the arena to look like will be posted on the following three Facebook groups: Kevin McGarry Fan Page Home of #McGarries and SuspendersUnbuttoned Podcast; Nathan Grant Fanfiction! Home of Sunday Night Serge; and The Heartie Analyzers: All things Kevin McGarry, KEVLA and WCTH