Chapter Two

Waking Up – New Beginning

A/N – Well here we go again. I have had several comments about specific chapters from my first story that should align with this story. I have plans to include some but I think I also have some new ideas that you will like. Let's get started and get an idea where all of our Borden family members are right now. I am going to take a different approach and I hope I get the message across as I continue to experiment with different points of view and writing styles. A lot has happened in 5+ years and there is a lot more on the horizon, some of it sooner than later. So let's see how things are going with Ty, Amy, the twins, Maddie, JT, and especially Lyndy and Wyatt. I hope you enjoy this chapter and please don't hesitate to let me know how you like it. And as always if you have any storyline ideas I am always open to them! Mild Mature Content – Enjoy!

They sunlight from the window woke Lyndy up as she tiredly opened her eyes. She shook off her grogginess and smiled, realizing that next to her was the man of her dreams. She was always amazed at how much heat he produced as it was a cold morning and she had her flannel pajamas and footies on, she was toasty. He laid there in a pair of boxers and that was it. She could literally feel the heat off his body as she scooted closer to him. He was dead to the world as always being able to sleep through a storm. She looked at him not only admiring what she saw but more importantly the man he had become. They were starting their final semester of school and after a really busy holiday of family gatherings, dates and hanging out with their group of friends they were both excited to get ready for graduation. She was so proud of him and what he had accomplished, fast tracking through his studies and poised to become a fully certified vet, by the end of the year. He had worked so hard apprenticing with her dad and the rest of the vets, which was a big part in his early certification. He enjoyed the diversity of the animal population but couldn't deny that he really enjoyed working with the horses. Over the last couple of years they were able to work on a lot of horses together just like her parents and she was always overwhelmed with his ability to calm any animal he worked with. After a short week it was time for JT's birthday and the family was really excited. His relationship with JT had continued to grow and they were often caught whispering to each other. Wyatt felt the movement of his bedmate but kept still, smiling to himself. He was on top of the world and overwhelmed that Amy and Ty had offered to set their little apartment. They respected the privilege completely and although they were intimate they were always very careful and like their parents the knock rule was in affect for them too. Last night after the New Year's day dinner they all got to bed early so they spent some time together. He smiled again remembering that Lyndy was a little frisky as their kisses moved on to some pretty heavy touching and petting. Not only did she have an amazing body as she matured but she was extremely well fit with all of the ranch work. Every time he touched her he felt on top of the world and based on her moans and whimpers she felt pretty good too. But what she loved the most was that intimacy was not just about sex, it was the little things. Holding hands, light kisses on the cheek and his hand on her back. But her smile was what really made his day. The smile that she always had for him warmed his heart each and every time. He finally decided to acknowledge her and slowly opened his eyes, "Really are you staring at me" She giggled, "Well I love to watch you sleep and to be honest, you are pretty hot in your sleepwear." He laughed, "Well, you look pretty sexy wrapped up in yours." She blushed, "Well I don't hear many complaints when you get to unwrap me." He slowly move his hands under her PJ top and holding her. She melted in his grasp and sighed deeply as her PJ's were loosened. They kissed for a few minutes until she leaned back. "Ok, lover boy we need to roll. Let's get showered dressed and downstairs. We have a big week and then JT's party so let's get to it." As she walked away shedding clothes he looked in excitement and whispered to himself, JT's party weekend would be a good time for sure.

Ty was awakened to Amy moving and mumbling in her sleep. She must have been having a dream as she was a little agitated. Over the last few months she had bouts with restlessness and he had learned to let it play out and then talk to her when she woke up. There were a lot of things on her mind, Jack was well into his 80's and at times it concerned her as he continued to push his limits. Her dad was a mess and had missed the holidays because he had been "sick." They both knew he had relapsed and Casey did her best to protect him and the family from his struggles. On Christmas Day, she and Lou had a private discussion with Casey as she filled her in on what was going on with him. It wasn't good and his doctor was concerned about his health and attitude. Lou and Amy promised to see him and one day, with Casey there when they visited. It did not go well and Amy hid her concerns with the kids but broke down that night in bed with Ty. She had cried for over an hour until Ty got her to settle with help from Lyndy who heard her and asked to come in. Together they held her and comforted her but it didn't erase what she had experienced during the visit. Her dad was defeated depressed and really looked bad health wise. The three of them had no idea what to do. She begrudgingly agreed to talk to a doctor about it and Lyndy decided she would go with her for support. As she settled he was amazed at how beautiful she was. Over the years they had been together, it seemed to her that her beauty continued to get even more alluring. He couldn't keep his hands off her and everyone around them saw it. His family was everything to him but Amy was his heart and soul. He noticed she seemed to have settled, so he went to move a little hair out of her eyes, hoping she would wake. Amy was in a horrible dream that moved from her grandpa to her dad to Lilly and then the kids. Everywhere she turned it seemed to her that everyone needed her strength but she was failing them. She tried and tried to fix everyone but was frustrated when she couldn't do it. But then off in the distance was Ty, standing here with a big smile on his face. She felt his warmth and love and instantly felt better. He had that way with her, always there for her no matter what the situation. She smiled a little to herself and also realized how hot he still was. There was a little grey on the edges but he was still a fine specimen of a man and she couldn't keep her hands off of him. They continued to be like love struck teenagers, always catching a hug, kiss or more. She dreamed of being in his embrace when she felt a hand brushing her hair away from her face. She opened her eyes to the most beautiful green eyes she had ever seen whispering, "Good morning my love." He kissed her gently and held her, whispering in her ear, "You seemed restless, are you Ok?" She smiled into his strong chest, blushing a little, knowing he felt the warmth. "Well, Ok I guess, actually maybe not. I am still upset about our visit with my dad and I was dreaming about him, grandpa, Lilly and the kids. I just wish we could do something for him. He is lost and we could tell Casey was struggling. I mean he is still my father and it was hard." Ty smiled, "Well I am glad you are talking to me about it and you know I am always here. I don't have any answers but together, we will get through this. Lyndy has been keeping me updated on your chats and she is also committed to be there for you. She is amazing and loves you so much. And I kind of love you to." She smiled feeling much better. "We better get going, let's have a fun shower and get breakfast ready. First day back to school for the kids and work for us." He smiled as she walked into the bathroom. He gawked at her as she shed clothes on the way. He walked in behind her and smiled, "Really the stripping thing, it gets me every time." She smiled, "I know!" After their fun shower they were at their sinks getting ready. Ty smiled at her, "Well big weekend for JT." She giggled, "I can't believe our little boy is going to be 10." He smiled, I know, it's crazy, but of them were thinking about the other big part of the weekend." She smiled even more now. "I know that should be pretty amazing too, I am so excited." They finished getting dressed and went down stairs to get the going back to school breakfast prepared.

Annie and Addie stayed up late talking. It was going to be a busy short week at school but the 3 and a half week break was fun with lots of time to hang with their group, have a couple of single and double dates, enjoying family and work. They both really loving their first semester of college and spent a lot of time talking about their classes. Their mom and dad bought a car for them to share and they also has use of other vehicles so getting to where they wanted to go was easy. They had spent time with Lyndy, Wyatt and friends with their second semester schedules arranging who would drive whom and when. Parking was limited so they carpooled with them and their friends. Annie was really happy with school and continuing to work with horses. The early stages of the Equine program at school were her favorite but she didn't mind all of the prerequisites too. She continued to excel in math and science as she did in high school. Addie was less impressed with the prerequisite work but was auditing some of the courses needed to major in mechanical engineering and so far they seemed intriguing. As the sun broke through their window they almost woke up at the same time. Addie laughed, "I missed being together as a family like we were over the holiday. It seems we are all so busy at school and work that we don't have a lot of time here. But in the end it will be all worth it." Annie smiled, "Wow, when do you become so philosophical, miss technical." Addie scoffed, "I am not that bad Annie, I have feelings too. I mean you saw how Desi and I were all over each other on New Year's Eve." She laughed, "Sis, everyone did, what was up with that." For one of the few times in her life, Addie blushed and Annie was all over it. "Wait a minute, "Oh my god you did it didn't you? You two hooked up?" Addie's blush grew. The two of them always talked about their men and moving on but the discussions were sometimes brief and uncomfortable. She finally spoke, "We did and like you said it was amazing. He was so nice and so worried about my feelings and if I was Ok. And before you say anything we were double careful and will be until we get married." Annie looked back to her, "Did you say married? Have you guys talked about it. I mean Jer and I have but not until after school." Addie giggled, "Yes and yes. We have talked about it and of course will wait. His program at his school will be finished in four years like ours so we have all the time in the world." Annie smiled and they hugged tightly. "So is mechanical engineering the plan?" Addie smiled, "Yea but don't tell mom and dad, I plan to this week. And you, I know where you want to go with school but the Olympics?" Now it was her time to blush, "Well according to Georgie, that's the plan. I qualified for the Olympic trials with the school team so we shall see." Addie giggled and hugged her even harder. Out of breath Annie squeaked, "Let's get ready and head downstairs. I heard mom and dad on the way down. I am so glad Lyndy and Wyatt have their own bathroom, that definitely works for us since JT is not a long shower guy." They grabbed their stuff and headed into the bathroom. No matter what was going on they both still felt the connection they had and knew that it would always be special just with them. As they got ready they looked at each other and smiled, thinking about the weekend coming up. Breakfast was on both of their minds as they headed into the kitchen.

Like her dad and Wyatt, Maddie was a sound sleeper and not much could wake her up. Understanding the problem, she had two alarms. One went off 15 minutes early and the other on the time she needed to be up. This morning thought she opened her eyes and realized she was up before the first alarm. She loved the holiday break but was excited to get back to school. High School was the best and now that she was in her second year she was really enjoying the challenges that she was experiencing. She flipped when her mom and dad help arrange some time for her to audit some college therapy courses. Several of the higher performing high schoolers were given the opportunity and she was selected. Currently she was one of the smartest kids in her class and the teachers could not say enough about her level of knowledge and understanding of her class topics and expected her to continue to do well. As soon as she gathered herself she grabbed her day planner to look over everything she had going on for the short week back. She was helping her mom with JT's party so she had time penciled in several times. She also had been hanging with Mallory and helping her with some scheduling and planning for everything she had her hands in. Mallory respectfully called her mini-Lou as she had an uncanny ability to organize things. As busy as everyone was Mallory appreciated the help for sure. Like Mallory, Maddie was a pen and paper organizer and her day planner was her bible of everything Borden family and Miracle Ranch. She had a lot of time this week to spend with Gwen and Caroline as well as the three of them were helping at the Rehoming and Day Care Centers. She had arranged to have some kids from Hudson Elementary Special Needs classes to come there and help as well. It was a good way to help these kids be more comfortable with horses and with life in general. Many of the special needs staff and parents came as well and were overwhelmed with the program and how amazing Maddie, Caroline and Gwen were with their kids. Maddie smiled as she thought about how happy the kids were and how good it made her and the parents feel. She got up to get ready and made sure the bathroom was clear. As she finished Annie and Addie headed in high fiving her. She smiled, "So any news yet from our sister? Addie laughed, "I have no idea what you are talking about." The three of them giggled but realized that Wyatt and Lyndy were heading downstairs so they quickly composed themselves. Maddie gathered her things and headed down to one of her mom and dad's famous first day back to school breakfast. She was starving.

JT had had a late night and all of the ruckus in the hallway woke him up in a little bit of a grumpy mood. He laid there for a while gathering himself. He had an active sleep, receiving a visit from his grandma Marion. They talked calmly but she was worried about his mom. "Honey, I need you to be extra nice to your mom and tell your sisters and Wyatt as well. Make sure you hug her and tell her that you love her." JT was confused, "I always tell her that grandma." She smiled and put looked at him, "Honey, she really needs it now, your grandpa is not well and she is also worried about your GG, you know his age. It has been weighing on her a lot and she needs you all a lot right now." He smiled, I know she has been a little off lately and I know about Grandpa Tim. We all went to see him and he looked horrible and barely responded to us. The girls were really upset but Grandma Casey said it was a good thing." As she said her goodbyes, sitting on Spartan and she looked back. But there is going to be an amazing thing happening soon so I hope that helps her spirits." He laughed, "Come on grandma, like I don't know what it is." She laughed, waving as she trotted away. He grabbed his journal and wrote down notes about the interaction with his grandma. As a part of the study, the team had asked him to journal each time he had an interaction. They would talk about them each time they met every month. He made the choice to hold back details but was usually very thoughtful of using names and specific events. The team understood and he only shared it with them. They let him decide how much he wanted to share with his mom and dad. He decided he better get up but before he did he looked over at his nightstand. He looked over the pictures of his family, one of him Shawna and Trent, a shot of grandma Marion on top of Pegasus and one of GG, Lisa next to Grandma Lilly and Grandpa Max with him sitting in the middle. He loved his pictures and they made his morning after a restless night. But then he glanced at his favorite picture, he was a little younger and Wyatt had him in his arms tickling him and Lyndy was trying to save him. He loved Wyatt and they were as close as ever. He then smiled to himself remembering the conversation they had right before he went to bed on New Year's Eve. He was over the moon but knew he had to keep quiet. He smiled at the two of them again and whispered, "I love you guys." He was starving as always and quickly got ready heading downstairs.

Amy and Ty were so busy they were a little startled when they kids all started descending on the kitchen. After kisses from all of them and backpacks being placed in the mudroom they gathered around the breakfast feast. The chatter was active, about school, work, the Olympics and whatever else came up. Amy was always amazed at how many topics could be covered in a short period of time. One by one as they finished, cleaned up their dishes and confirmed with their parents the driving arrangements for the day. Maddie and JT were on the school bus but the other four had a number of different rides and pickups. It was quite a logistical challenge but it always seemed to work out. Lyndy was the first to leave, so she hopped in her truck and headed out for an early lab. Wyatt saw her off with a kiss and reminded her that she would be bringing them home. He was getting a ride with Rusty and Haley because they had to be in Calgary to meet her parents. As she pulled away he grabbed JT, "Hey buddy tell everyone to wait for me, I need to ask everyone something." He smiled and began yelling for everyone to wait in the kitchen. Amy giggled in excitement and put her arms around Ty whispering, "Well here we go." They were all jittery as he came in and got their attention. He smiled, "Well I figure you all are wondering what is up and I expect most of you kind of know but I need to ask the four of you something. I already talked to mom and dad but now I need to talk to you." He hesitated more nervous than he thought he would be. Addie smirked, "Get to it bro, the world is spinning." He took a deep breath, "Ok, I would like to ask your sister to marry me and I would like your permission to do so. Like I said mom and dad are good with it but I really need all of your to be Ok with it too." The four of them looked at each other realizing that they had a chance to make him sweat a little. Amy looked at them sternly wanting them to answer him. Finally JT couldn't hold it back, "Are you kidding me, that is awesome! So I figure that is why you asked if you did something that may take a little of my birthday pizzazz away? Bro, no problem, I am getting too old for an all about me birthday anyway." JT's eyes watered a bit as he jumped into Wyatt's arms, "This is the best birthday present ever, I bet she is going to faint or something." The girls all screamed and along with their brother tackled him to the ground with kisses and tickles. Amy was in tears as she watched them wrestle around as a misty eyed Ty held her tightly. He spoke, "Now you four, here is the hard part. Not a peep or a whisper, nothing that will lead her one. Everything is normal until Wyatt asks her." Annie spoke up still breathless, "So when are you going to ask her?" He smiled and looked at Amy and Ty, "Well we are going out on Friday to celebrate begin back in school and I am doing it then. Rusty, Haley, Clay and Katie are helping me so you guys really need to keep it between us," Maddie spoke up, "Can we see the ring?" Amy spoke up, you will see the ring after, so you just have to wait. JT we still have your kids party at the ropes place for your friend on Saturday and then family and friend on Sunday." Wyatt looked at JT again, "Are you sure you are Ok with me doing their before you birthday weekend." JT smiled, "You better, I don't know how long I can hold it in!" Ty broke the excitement, OK I hear the bus and there is a car pulling up Wyatt. You all have a great day and son, we are all so happy for you guys." After quick hugs they all headed out. Amy and Ty watch as they all left and she turned in his arms. "That was perfect, I am sure he feels a lot better." She noticed Ty was quiet, "Hey you what's up?" He smiled and kissed her deeply, "I am just really, really happy right now" The grabbed each other's hand and headed over to the barn.

The rest of the week was torture for the Borden clan except for Lyndy who was thinking that everyone was being a little weird. Starting with breakfast, which seemed a little more subdued than normal it seemed, outside of Wyatt and her mom and dad, her siblings were a little quieter. Katie and Haley were avoiding her as well as their husbands. Luckily, she was really busy, even missing dinner a couple of nights. She just put it off to getting back into the swing of things and the fact that a lot of people were getting ready for JT's big birthday weekend, always an event for the family. Along with Wyatt, they volunteered to help at the kids party on Saturday, which her mom and dad were happy about. But she was also really excited about her date with Wyatt on Friday. They had been on a lot of dates over the years but something in her gut told her that this one was special. Wyatt had been very attentive to her especially at night, where his friskiness was very apparent and she loved it. The week couldn't end quickly enough for her. Friday was here and Wyatt was very vague with his intentions for their date. He simply told her to dress nice but warm. The rest was a surprise. She sat with the family as they started dinner since Wyatt was still not ready as he had a late class. Little did she know that he was in their room freaking out a bit staring at the ring. He was lost when there was a knock on the door. He responded and heard Ty ask to come in. He closed the door and smiled, "Freaking out a bit, eh." Wyatt smiled looking down at the ring and handed it to him. Ty opened his eyes wide and smiled, "Wow, this is beautiful, Lyndy is going to be so happy. And Amy and the kids will be over the moon. I don't want to be persistent but are you sure you don't need a little help. We won't tell anyone and you can pay us back whenever. I remember how long I saved for Amy's and I know with being in school it is tough." He smiled, "No, I am good, I still had some money left form the car fund that my grandma left for me. I think she would be happy that it helped me buy this too." He hesitated and continued, "I know that Lyndy loves me and I really love her, but how did you know it was time?" He laughed, "Well you know she kind of said no at first time, although she actually said she wanted to wait, which in the long run was good. I finally knew it was time after a couple of events that happened. First, of all people, Chase Powers had brought his wife to see Amy about a new horse she had just got. It seemed he was giving her some trouble. While we were getting the horse out, he told me that I better ask her soon because someone else will. And you know what he actually insinuated to her that she still had feelings for him." Wyatt shook his head, "What a jerk." He patted his shoulder, "But the thing that really helped me was the day I spent with my former so called step dad Wade of all people finding parts for my truck. We weren't on the best of terms and he took me to a junk yard where we found them but also ran into a literal junk yard dog, who had a trapped in a car. We got talking and I told him that your mom was the best thing in my life and when I asked her to marry me we decided to wait. He looked at me with a smirk and said, "What are you waiting for." Now it was time for Wyatt to place a hand on his shoulder. Ty looked up and smiled, "And the rest is history." Wyatt smiled, "Well I can't wait to marry Lyndy and start my life with her. Just like you, Lyndy saved me during a time when my life was a mess." They hugged and Ty spoke to him, "Well son, let's get this done."

Meanwhile the, JT and the girls were setting up for their dinner and Amy, who noticed Lyndy seemed a little down asked her to join her in the living room. The rest of the kids realized they needed a moment so they took over the set up. Amy patted the seat next to her and as Lyndy sat down close she took her mom's hands. Amy smiled, "So what's up, you seem a little quiet." Lyndy smiled meekly, "How did you know that you wanted to marry dad. I think Wyatt is going to ask me and I am a little scared. Mom, I love him so much, he is a part of me. But marriage, that is a big deal." Amy smiled warmly at her oldest daughter and pulled her in for a hug. "I actually fell in love with your dad a long time ago but I didn't understand love too much. You two are much older and so much more mature than we were. A few days before he proposed a second or third time, I don't remember, he had come back from a day with his step dad and to be honest I was worried. They still weren't in a good place. But he told me the day went well and that he couldn't be afraid of the boogie man anymore – that is what he used to call him. Anyway after dinner he left and I went for a walk down to the overturned rowboat to think. Lou came down and saw I was crying. She asked what was wrong, even though she knew. I told him how impressed I was with how dad had become such an amazing young man. Then I said, when he asked me to marry him, I said I wanted to wait and I just realized I have no idea what I am waiting for." Lyndy smiled, "Well, I think you made a good decision mom." They hugged again and were interrupted as Ty cleared his throat, Everything good girls?" Amy smiled as they both got up to hug their men, "Yes it is." As they went to say goodbye, Wyatt whispered in Lyndy's ear, "You look beautiful." She blushed a deep red as Maddie caught the exchange and smiled. She was going to say something but in a very un-Maddie manner she held her tongue. Amy noticed her restraint and rubbed her shoulder pulling her in for a side hug. Maddie was just a few inches shorter than her and the other three girls were taller. Amy smiled at all of her kids realizing one day she would be the shortest one in the group. After an extra round of goodbye hugs, JT was holding Wyatt a little tighter than normal. He smiled, "You kids have a great night." The girls rolled their eyes and Ty moaned, "We have to keep him away from Rusty and the ranch hands Amy." They all laughed as he looked at him, "Dad, that came from GG." They laughed again as Wyatt and Lyndy headed to the truck and the rest started dinner. As soon as they left the chatting began.

They had decided to take Lyndy's truck since her heater worked and it allowed her to sit really close to him. They were quiet at first but finally Lyndy spoke up. "So, are you going to tell me, where we are going?" He smiled, "We are going on a date." She sighed, "Oh really, no silly where are we going, you have been so secretive." Well we are going to dinner in Calgary and then it is a surprise. And did I tell you how amazing you look?" She smiled, "Quit sidetracking Wyatt Miller, I want details." She looked behind her and saw her long winter coat, with a hat, scarf and mittens. "Are we going outside? Why is that stuff in the back?" He remained stoic and said, "We are going to dinner and then a surprise. I brought that stuff for the surprise." Back at the ranch the family was anxiously eating dinner. Addie spoke up, "What time are we supposed to be there, mom?" She looked at Ty and he answered, "We are meeting the others at the entrance at 8:00 and then have to be at the spot by 8:30. We are coming in the back way and you need to dress really warm." They all smiled in anticipation of being a part of the big night. Meanwhile just few minutes before 6:00, Lyndy and Wyatt pulled up to the restaurant. Lyndy was so excited to see they were going to one of their favorite Italian restaurants. They came here for some birthdays and other happy events. Wyatt drop the truck off at the valet and he asked a lot of questions about the old truck saying how cool it was. Lyndy would have talked longer but Wyatt was on a timeline so he moved her into the restaurant, but not before he slipped a note to the valet. She was pretty impressed that they had a reservation for one of the nicest table for two there. After dropping their coats with the check girl, who batted her eyelashes at Wyatt, they headed to their table. She smirked, "Well Mr. Miller, it seems you have a girlfriend, that coat check girl was giving you the once over." He laughed, "Whatever, I already have a girlfriend and she is beautiful, kind, caring and my best friend." She blushed, kissing his cheek and grabbing his thigh, "Good rebound mister, maybe later we can see how that works out." He smiled and got very serious as he gazed into her eyes, "Lyndy, I never thought my life would be like this. You and your family have made it perfect and being with you is something I never want to lose. I am so proud of you and what you have accomplished, you are amazing." He lightly kissed her lips as Lyndy was a little taken by his words. She gathered herself as the kiss took her breath away. "Wyatt, you will never lose me, I love you so much and am proud of you to. It's not my family, it is ours as my mom, dad and siblings love you completely. I have to ask, why all the serious talk?" He smiled, "I don't know I guess with our life about to change for the better, I am just getting a little sentimental." Realizing he may have said to much he added, "You know graduation, becoming a vet, you working hand in hand with your mom, all that." Before she should respond he kissed her again a little more passionately until they heard a clearing throat. "Sorry, here are your menus and if you don't mind here are their specials." The both blushed a little as she went through the specials. In order to move things along, they ordered drinks and they each ordered one of the specials. The clock was ticking.

Dinner was great as Lyndy and Wyatt shared their dinners and talked quietly. It seemed that they couldn't get close enough to each other. Now that they were both 21, they ordered two glasses of champaign to toast the fact that it was their last semester of school. The server tried to give them space as she noticed they were huddled close but as they finished their meal she brought out the bill. Wyatt smiled as Lyndy had her head on his shoulder and handed him his card, saying "No rush." He was a little ahead of schedule with the plan to get to their next destination about 7:45pm. It was only a few blocks away so he asked Lyndy if she wanted to go for a walk since their next stop was close. She smiled and asked, "Where are we going?" He smirked, "You will know when we get there but it involves animals." Still not able to figure it out she bundled up, reached for his arm and headed out. They enjoyed the walk, not needing to talk a lot. As they walked she looked up and saw a billboard that advertised the ZOOLIGHTS at the Calgary Zoo, noticing the last day was Sunday. She spoke excitedly, "Look the lights are here until Sunday, maybe we can go before it ends, I love them." He smiled and as they turned the corner her eyes lit up seeing the entrance to the Zoo and a small line. She spun around in his arms as he whispered and kissed her, "Your wish is my command." She screamed in delight and jumped into his arms causing a little bit of a scene. "I can't believe it, I love you so much." He calmed her a bit, "Well we could continue to draw everyone's attention or we could go see the lights." She giggled as they gave the attendant their tickets and began wondering around. As they walked through the central area he looked around and checked his watch. He had about 45 minutes. Meanwhile the Borden family, the Heartland group as well as Haley, Rusty, Mallory, Doug, Soraya and Dillon were on the way. It had been decided that Camilla, Caroline, Maya and Bella would watch the entire younger kid herd at Heartland, so it would be easy to get them all from the same place. Amy was a little nervous and made sure everyone knew to park in the back lot and to take a long route to meet by the front gates. Ty had contacted a Zoo vet he knew and made arrangements to hide them until the time. The girls were giddy and so excited as JT just smiled the entire time. Wyatt's plans had worked to perfection as the crowd was ready and waiting. There were a lot of people there for the evening so they felt they could blend in easily. Everyone had hot chocolates and waited for the young couple to emerge from the park. The group was bubbling for excitement all with a keen eye out. Suddenly Maddie spoke up a little too loud but was still not heard by Lyndy and Wyatt, "There they are!"

Lyndy was overwhelmed with the lights and animals as they walked around. Her eyes were bright with excitement as they walked back to the common area. They decided to get some hot chocolate and take a break before they went to another area. They had a seat and sat closely feeding off each other's warmth. Lyndy kissed his cheek, This was a great idea Wyatt, I love all the lights, it's beautiful. But it's weird, I thought I saw Mallory back that way?" He looked at her and smiled, "The most beautiful thing here is you." She smiled and kissed his lips. Then her eyes opened even wider as he got up and went down on his knee. He reached in his coat pocket and pulled out a small velvet box. The family started slowly nudging their way over with about 10 phones up videoing the event. Other people in the plaza area stopped and watched a nervous young man and a startled young women interact. Wyatt opened the box and she saw a beautiful ring glistening like the many Christmas lights they had seen. He would tell her later that the ring was his mom's that was given to him by his grandma. He took the simple diamond and added small diamonds around the ban and two more alongside the center round one carat diamond. He took her hand and whispered, "Lyndy Marion Borden, I have loved you since the day we met. You have been my salvation, always there for me. You are my best friend and I don't know how it is possible to love anyone as much as I love you. We have a great life ahead of us and I want to spend eternity with you. Would you do me the honor of being my wife." The entire area was hushed except for some giggles from her three sisters. She noticed them now and smiled as he whispered, "We have an audience." But all she saw was him as she finally took a breath. As he slid the ring onto her finger, she jumped in his arms screaming, "Yes, Yes, Yes!" The entire crowd erupted in applause, hoots and hollers. After enough time for a really deep kiss, Amy and Ty along with the kids approached. Lyndy hugged her mom tightly with a lot of tears flowing. Wyatt received hugs a well from Ty and the kids. Maddie, Annie and Addie hugged and giggled with their sister wanting to see the ring. Finally JT approached his best friend and hugged him tightly, "Good job bro." As the rest of the group approached Amy and Ty held each other, both in tears now. The happy couple was overwhelmed with congratulations, hugs, kisses and high fives. Lyndy couldn't believe that Wyatt pulled this off. She couldn't stop looking at him, so much in love. Surprised again she saw Rusty pull up in her truck with a big smile. He hopped out and flipped the keys to Wyatt, "Your bag is behind the seat." Lyndy was still overwhelmed and confused, "What bag is he talking about Wyatt and how did Rusty get my keys?" He laughed, "I bribed the valet and the bag is another surprise." After a lot more hugs and congrats everyone began to head home. Even several of the bystanders who watched the proposal told the young couple congratulations. Wyatt and Lyndy stood with Amy and Ty as they left. Amy smiled tearily and hugged Lyndy again. Ty smiled and thanked Wyatt for letting everyone be a part of the proposal adding, "Guys, I think your GG really loved being here, he could barely talk." Amy smiled finally pulling away from Lyndy, "You guys have a fun night. We aren't leaving until 11:30 so if you still want to come to JT's kids' party we will see you then. If not we will see you we get home." After final hugs, Wyatt and Lyndy got into her truck and drove away. I had been the best night of her young life and their night was far from over.