Chapter Eight
Back in the Saddle With a Leg Up
A/N – Ok, I have to say that the amount of feedback I have received so far for this story has been awesome. And yes the last two chapters were definitely a challenge but still a joy to write. So many of us deal with this and I hope I showed that the family supported Lilly and each other totally with love and understanding. I will take this chapter to clarify and tie up a few things and will begin to move forward with what I am sure will be an exciting time for the Borden family. Work, school, a graduation, a vacation or two and just a lot of excitement and fun for all of them. I will start the focus more on our newly engaged couple, but not forget the rest of the kids and as always, Amy and Ty. Also a big Board meeting with the new chairmen and members will happen soon. Although some find them boring, I hope to set the stage for the future of the company and the Borden's legacy. I genuinely hope it will be inspiring. As I said I have had a large number of reviews and I love it. Keep me on my toes, let me know your thoughts and ideas and understand how much your feedback means to me. THANKS! Mature Content – Enjoy!
RRR (Reader Review Responses) – Paul, again I appreciate your review. I am glad you feel the story as well as understand my direction. Regarding you comment about JT, it is closer that it can be for sure. Guest, I really appreciate your comment and like you a few tears were shed. Sundance, thanks for the kid words, I am glad you have enjoyed my first story. Like you I reread some stories more than once. I am also glad to hear you started my sequel. It's been a little emotional but we will get into the lives of the Bordens moving forward for sure.
On Sunday, the Hudson group bid farewell to Max's family as they headed back to Colorado. Max decided to stay for a few weeks until the Board meeting to work with Lou and Lisa on several things. They were going to meet with Jenn and Benn to go over the status of Fairfield/Briar Ridge merger, which basically complete. And also with Lou taking over as Chairwoman, there were some legal documents that needed to be filed. In addition Lou wanted to do a complete audit of the company and make sure that they were maximizing profits and getting all of the efficiencies that they could. She met with each individual or group that led or oversaw different parts of the operation with plans to detail at the meeting and brainstorm ideas to get better because now that was paramount, as bigger wasn't the most important thing anymore. There were also some government subsidies and funding available for them as they had programs, like the Special Kids Rodeo that qualified. He also wanted to stay to keep close to Ty and JT to make sure they were Ok and selfishly for him to lean on the Alberta family when needed. The cottage was booked for a high end client and his family so he opted to stay in the guest room at the Miracle Ranch, which the kids were happy with. Also he wanted to talk to everyone about the letters that they all got. Although personal, the immediate famliy talked about what she had written with each other privately. Amy and Ty shared thiers right away and talked a lot about them. Amy was amazed at how Lilly had been so happy in the recent years and how much she loved her son. As a mother she understood, but she saw, in her words, a hint of sadness of the challenges they had getting there. Her letter was one of the most beautiful things she had ever read. She told her again how much she appreciated what she did for her son, saving him. She talked about the time she let her help with a horse and what an amazing feeling it was. She also told Amy that she was an amazing mother and before her reunion with them she knew she wasn't. As they read each other's letters again that first night in bed they both cried completely understanding the beauty of her words. Amy and Ty also made sure they talked to each of their children one on one than make sure they were Ok. The kids were open about their letters and all mentioned the individual comments that Lilly had made about each of them. Ty smiled when they talked to JT and offered, "I can't imagine how hard this was for her with how sick she was. It took a lot of strength and you and Maddie were amazing." JT smiled as he looked over and saw Maddie at the door. She laughed, "Dad, you are right, grandma was really committed to finishing these and was not going to stop until they were done. When she really got tired, she would rest and we would read them back to her, or just let her rest. Joy kind of made sure she was Ok." JT spoke up, "Mom, dad, she was determined to get these letters done and I think she drew a strength that was deep inside her. It was hard for her but she would not let up. When we finished, she hugged us both and I think that moment we knew she was ready." When they heard those words they both misted up, realizing how perceptive and caring their kids were. After a hug they headed back to their room. They immediately got comfortable in each other's arms. They were quiet but the solace that was their loved helped them realize how lucky they were. Amy, sensing Ty needed some snuggling leaned in and kissed him behind his ear lobe resulting into a slight moan from her lover. Things accelerated quickly and soon they were kissing and touching each other all over their bodies. There was no conversation, just heavy relaxed breaths as they both needed a release. As they made love it was giving and full of a love only they could give each other. As they both released they fell into each other satisfied and complacent. After several minutes they continued to be in each other's arms. Amy smiled, "I love you Ty Borden, I know you will miss her, we all will, but I think she will always be here with us, especially through our little boy." He kissed her deeply, "Amy Borden, you have saved me more than one time and tonight you have done it again. I love you forever." The fell asleep together relishing in the love only they shared.
Monday morning kept up with the Borden family dynamic as everyone was going everywhere. Maddie and JT had Max help them with morning chores and Amy and Ty prepared breakfast. The college kids were busy getting things together for a busy week. Everyone converged to the breakfast table and before they started, JT spoke up. I think we should add a prayer for grandma this morning to make sure she is doing Ok. Max offered and after he was done he spoke up, "Is it always like this in the morning?" Lyndy jumped in, "Well normally Annie and Addie aren't here because they stay at school and Wyatt and I are only here a day or two a week." Max smiled, "Ahh yes the Borden apartment, I have heard about that. Amy and Ty a wise investment for sure." Amy laughed, "Well it has worked out well and we even have some paying boarders. And maybe Maddie and JT can use it too one day." JT high fived Wyatt, "You bet, there will be parties every night." Ty looked sternly, "Well maybe we should sell it and let you stay in a dorm. You know when I went to school I lived in a trailer and commuted. You guys are pretty lucky." Addie scoffed, "Oh my god, how many times are you going to tell that story dad." Everyone laughed as Max couldn't stop smiling. Almost as fast as it came together in a flash everyone was bolting out the door. Maddie and JT hopped on the bus and the college bound Bordens hopped in Wyatt's truck and the twin's car, heading in different directions. Addie and Annie wouldn't be back until Friday, but Lyndy and Wyatt would be back off and on. As they flew out Max laughed, "How do you know when and who will be here during the week." Amy laughed, "Maddie and JT are regulars but the rest of them they show up when they show up. It is actually kind of fun." They moved to the living room for a peaceful cup of coffee before Amy and Ty started their day. Max smiled, "I really want to thank you for letting me stay with you guys. The cottage was booked and Jack offered, but I wanted to be by you and your kids. They are a joy and Lilly could not get enough of them. My grandkids got the same treatment but honestly I know she really liked the Bordens. I know I have said it before but her bond with JT was more than a blessing. It was like they were connected. She talked of him often and whenever she was down or not feeling good the phone would ring and it was him." Amy smiled, "My grandpa says that when I work with a horse that I have a way. He definitely has a way. The team that has worked with him over the years are overwhelmed with his perceptiveness and ability to understand what people need. It is a gift and for him it is just what he does, nothing special." They sat a while longer when Max realized, "Oh shoot, I need a ride to Heartland, I was going to ask Wyatt." Ty looked at Amy and laughed, "Have you ever driven a gator?" He looked confused as Ty said, "Come with me." After having Rusty get out the gator that was heated, Max smiled and went on his way. Caleb laughed, "He looks like a kid in a candy store. But do you know what, he deserves it. He has had a tough go." Rusty agreed, "And boss, how are you?." Before her could answer Amy walked by and smacked Ty's on the rump giggling. Rusty smiled, "Never mind." Amy and Ty spent the rest of the morning catching up and getting well wishes from a lot of the staff. Caleb showed them where they posted Lilly's letter for the staff smiling proudly, "She was a fine woman Ty. If you, Amy or the kids need anything, Cass and I are here for you." They bro-hugged and Ty smiled going to check in with Steven and Cass, who was helping out today. Amy walked into the office and met with Katie, Georgie and Haley to catch up. They went through the schedule for the week and then Amy saddled up Blaze and headed over to the Rehoming Center to meet with Ellory and the staff. Ellory showed her Lilly's note that was posted and like at the Equine Center she received a lot of well wishes. They spent some time walking through the stable talking about the current horses as Ellory and some of the others talked through the plan for each. Amy kept her hand in the rehoming center as it was very important to her. She made it back by lunch and met Ty in the office, enjoying some sandwiches, drinks and conversation. They were both very busy but made a pact to check in to see how the other were doing. They were interrupted several times and after a kiss headed their separate ways. It was time to get back in the saddle.
Over the next few weeks leading up to the Board Meeting the family settled into their routine, well as settled as they could be with the loss of Lilly. Max was busy with Lou and Lisa not only getting ready for the Board meeting, where Lou would take the lead but also the addition of Katie, Clay, Lyndy, Wyatt, Jenn, Ben, Mallory, Soraya, Ellory, Mandy and Ellie to adjunct Board member roles. Casey was offered a seat but turned it down as she was focused on helping her husband who was in poor health. They were welcome to attend and provide feedback but could not vote, the plan showing them that they were all valued members of the team and family. Privately the plan was to add the Katie, Clay, Lyndy and Wyatt as full Board members in the near future as they were family and also a big part of moving forward. Jack and Lisa would stay on but be less involved in decision making so they would relinquish their seats to the youngsters and just be there as advisors. Lyndy and Wyatt were in full school, work mode. Both of them realizing that in a few months they would be graduates. Their routines were different but definitely gave them time to be together. Wyatt was swamped with his final classes that were very challenging and his work as a vet tech was keeping him busy as well. He realized how fortunate he was to be able to get hands on knowledge at the place he planned on working at. He was excited about becoming a DVM but also a little stressed that he could meet the expectations of his future in-laws and the rest of the vets on the staff. Ty had decided that Cass would oversee his clinical work like the rest of the students but was altered a bit due to the circumstances. Since Lilly's death he has thought of her letter and his grandma. Her words were amazing making him understood that he had a gift, not only in his veterinary skills but with his future wife and family. She challenged him to do the best he could and to love Lyndy unconditionally through good times and bad. He kept the letter with him all the time and like Amy and Ty, Lyndy and him decided to read each other's as well. Lyndy's classes were less stressful but still challenging. The Equine one's were fun and enjoyable and easy for her to get through. Her focus on business classes brought on a few more challenges but she got a lot of help from Wyatt, her dad and Lou, who had gotten an MBA in business years ago. Lou had actually let her get a look at the operating report for the individual companies and the entire organization allowing her an added scope of knowledge that many students didn't have access to. Her mom and dad also gave her a chance, along with her sisters to look over the Equine Center's financials as well. As a proud mother, Amy always beamed when she watched them look them over and ask questions, remembering that when she was there age she decided to pursue horse healing rather than college. Over the years she took some courses and now had a complete grasp of this side of the business. Like Wyatt she always had her letter with her. Lilly's words were so specific and told her to continue to pursue her dream of continuing the family legacy of helping horses. She insisted that she stay the course because she had the gift. She saw it and it reminded her of her mother when she was younger. She encourage her to continue dance because it was the most beautiful thing she had ever seen in her life and she thanked Lyndy for letting her be a part of it. Finally she told her that she had another gift in Wyatt. She said that he reminded her of her dad, with the same qualities that makes him a great vet, father and most of all husband. For Lyndy, the last comments brought her the warmest feeling. She realize how important Wyatt was to her and to hear that Grandma Lilly saw that was a gratifying thing to know. He was her world and she knew that no matter what they would always be there for each other.
Annie and Addie were excited to get back into the college routine. They both enjoyed their classes and all of the other activities of college life. They never took for granted how lucky they were, especially since their parents decided to invest in an apartment on campus. The place became a landing spot for their friend and they were mature enough to be respectful of their privilege. Maya and Bella had basically moved in and were paying rent for their room and an equal share for food expenses. Jeremy was there a lot and Desi wasn't there quite as much since the business school was a distance from the regular campus. He was there several times a week though, which Addie was happy about. The fourth bedroom was used for Wyatt and Lyndy or both of them as needed. Since they had responsibilities at the Miracle Ranch, their time there was limited. Amy and Ty let them use it for others if needed with the understanding that they again respected the apartment. They figured that at least two of their kids would need the apartment until Maddie and maybe even JT graduated, so they figured they would hold onto it at least until then. Like the others they had their letters with them all the time and as expected shared them with each other. Annie read her letter often and Lilly's words for her were heartwarming and personal. She encouraged her to continue to pursue her dream of the Olympics and was sure she could achieve it. Annie would always tear up when she read the next line that said, she couldn't be there in person but would be watching with her grandma and great grandma from the stars. It seemed that JT had helped Lilly realized that she would be able to check on all of them from time to time. Lilly also told her that she liked Jermey a lot but cautioned her to take her time so they could both learn to love each other. Annie blushed when she inferred that they had been intimate and reminded her to be safe and love each other with care and compassion. Annie felt as though her experience in life was different and didn't want her to have the same jaded lovers in her life. The letter was written maturely and not like a child which made her feel that her grandma considered her a woman and not a silly girl. But at the end was a comment that she had for her and her twin and believed would stay with her forever. She told her to love herself, love her partner and love her siblings completely and unselfishly. And to never forget to love and honor her parents as they would always be there for her the rest of her life. Addie as well always kept her letter close. At random times she would pull it out and read it. Lilly started off by telling her how she is so like her father. When he was younger he always liked to tinker, building and fixing things. She mentioned that they never had a lot but he always could find something to work with. Lilly was so proud of her pursuing a mechanical engineering degree, joking that she could barely screw in a lightbulb. She also said something pretty amazing for a grandma when she told her not to be intimidated in a man's world because she was much stronger that those silly boys. She was pleased that she had a vision of her future and told her to keep her focus on it. She mentioned Desi and thought it was so cute how they met years ago. She joked, you know men like when women help them it makes them feel special and wanted. He is a quiet boy and you are a confident woman and it seemed to her they were a perfect match. She told her that although they are very different that shouldn't be an obstacle to growing closer as they go through life. She referenced her mom and dad and how different they were joking that they seemed to be doing Ok. Like Annie, she talked about intimacy and to not take it for granted, cherishing it and treating it with respect. And like her sister, Lilly told her to love those around her who are most important to her life but to most of all love herself. She mentioned that she was not good at that and didn't find self-love until she met Max and came back to all of them. Both girls cherished the letters for the rest of their lives, taking the time to share them with those who meant everything to them including their children and grandchildren. They were part of the legacy that the Borden family had help build.
After the tumult of the last week or so, getting back to class to be with her friend and her classmates. For Maddie school was a refuse where she could get back to the things that meant so much to her, friends and helping others. Ricky and Gwen was so happy to see her. When she got off the bus, He was waiting with a bouquet of flowers and a kiss. She hadn't had a chance to see him yet and the meeting was perfect for her. She held onto him for a while until a familiar voice chimed in, "You two need to get a room." Gwen laughed and hugged her friend telling how sorry she was for losing her grandma. It was just what she needed. Her letter was in her bag and when the time was right she would share it her two best friends. For her and her brother it was a little different. They helped their grandma write all of the other letters together so they felt her heart and the love she had for everyone. Maddie was overwhelmed at the depth of her understanding of each and every one of them. It seemed to be her mission to have a very comprehensive view of each family member. When she first read her letter she struggled making through it all the way. It was very poignant and personal, showing her how much time she put into her thoughts. They had both realized that she had been planning this for a while since her ideas was so well organized and in order. She told Maddie that she was the most caring person she had ever met, a perfect combination of her mom and dad. Her friendship and support of Gwen and Sylvia was amazing and the growth of the Special Kids Rodeo was a testament to who she was. Her interest in Occupational Therapy solidified even more in her mind that Maddie had a gift of helping those that needed it, in a way that wasn't embarrassing but empowering. She told her she had done a lot or research on OT and saw a perfect match but admitted that one of Max's grandkids did it for her. She was also impressed with her friend group, especially Caroline and her boyfriend Ricky. She guided her to be patient with Ricky and when they were ready to move forward, she would know. Lilly said she could tell they were matched well, but at only 16, there was time. She remembered that she had met Amy after Ty and her were together and her mom was a little older. She felt they were a good match but also so they needed a little more time to truly bond and be one. The next part of the letter was where Maddie was struggling. Lilly told her that her family needed her love and understanding. Her nature was to always be the one who took the lead and with her siblings, she saw that they always knew that she would be there to do whatever was needed. She also mentioned that her mom and dad relied on her as well. They loved all the kids but felt as though Maddie was their child that others relied on as well, so their loved was more focused, helping her to realize how important she was. When she was reading it she remembered many times when her parents would ask her to check up on one of her siblings or even non-family members they had concerns about. Although she struggled, she got through the letter and now referred to it often. At the end , Lilly said something that shook her even more. She asked that she look after her little brother. She felt it wasn't by chance that he wanted her to come to Denver with her and that as his life went on, she would always be a safe place for him to go. She was candid and told her that he is hiding his grief, always the strong person, but deep down he needed her to help him get through it. She made the decision right then and there that she would always be there for him.
Upon their return, JT got back into it. The events of the last week or so were challenging for him but he kept himself together for his grandma. The last few days when she was not able to speak he would sit with her and talk to her quietly. Several times, Ty, Max and Maddie would step in and get him to bed. A few times he had fallen asleep next to her so they let him be. When they left to go home he knew that she was ready. On the trip home he would lean into his sister for comfort but controlled his tears. Helping her with the letters was a labor of love, a final tribute to a woman who was much more than a grandma. His letter became a guidepost for his life. She told him that he possessed the ability to love someone more that anyone she had ever met. She mentioned in her life there was no one, except his dad who she felt closer to. She said his relationship with his family and close friends should be cherished and asked him to make sure he checked in on Max and his GG often. She commented that he should learn as much as he could from them as patriarchs of their families and that their life knowledge could never be taught in a book. She understood that her death would be hard on him but also asked him to stay close to his father because this would be hard on him as well. She also encouraged him to stay close to Wyatt as she saw a very strong bond between them especially with all the Borden women around them. Overall the letter made him feel good that someone understood him. It is not that he felt odd, it was just that he saw things differently than a normal 10 year old did. Grandma always told him that being around siblings older than him was part of the reason but she also said that his gift was just from higher powers. His ability to talk with Grandma Marion, Great Grandma Lyndy and others wasn't a curse or burden, but it was a gift that only he had. She was proud of how he handled it in such a mature manner. JT remembered always talking about it with her, as much as he did with his parents and siblings. He smiled understanding how interested and supportive she was and near the end of her life was confident that one day they would see each other again, so he better not cause any trouble. She also mentioned something about his friendship with Trent and how proud she was he helped him through a difficult time when he came to the Miracle Ranch. He read her next words and an affirmation hit him as she mentioned that she felt as though he would need him soon and to make sure he stayed close to him. She said it was just a feeling and inside he felt it too, amazed at how intuitive his grandma was. As he would reread it there always seemed to be another message that he had missed before. He would talk to Maddie from time to time about the letters they wrote to each other. Maddie always said that of all the letters they helped her write, it seemed to her that his was the easiest and by far the longest. He kept it to himself for a while but eventually shared it with only those very close to him, his parents and siblings. As he would go through his life there would be many people that meant a lot to him but his Grandma Lilly would always be the most special and he couldn't wait to see her in his dreams.
As soon as they received their letters, like the others, Amy and Ty went to read them together. Amy was amazed at how poignant her letter was and how much love Lilly showed through it. She again thanked her for saving her son, who she had mistreated for so many years. She was overwhelmed at her skill as a mother and how her kids were all amazingly mature, caring and most of all very close. She never had that in her life so she apologized and told her that she lived it through them. She mentioned the time when they first met and how initially Amy was angry at her and wondered how she could treat her own son like she did. She was so happy that working with a horse helped them heal their relationship and moving forward always appreciated how Amy treated her. Lilly marveled and was amazed at the love her and Ty for each other and how that love was the foundation of their family and the business. She asked her to take care of Ty after she was gone as well as JT. She knew Ty would take her death hard but also was confident that Amy and the kids could help him get through it. And JT, she marveled at his ability to help her over the past few years and give her a strength she never knew she had. She went on and on commenting about all of the kids and how amazing they were, which made Amy feel warm inside. Her letter validated what she had hope was real and although she truly felt that way, it was nice to hear it from Lilly. She sat with Ty as he struggled through his letter. Maddie had given her mom a heads up that grandma knew it would be hard for him to get through. As he read it, she kept an eye on him while reading hers. She noticed his body language and how many times he looked away from it. As Ty read it he couldn't stop thinking about the years of abuse she had to endure and finally succumbing to drugs alcohol to combat it. She told him several times how sorry she was and that she wished things had been different. Even when she was accepted back into his life, she still had remorse for the past. It wasn't until Wade was gone and she met Max that she had found peace after a lifetime of chaos. She told him that him, Amy and their kids gave her purpose and Max helped her realize it was never too late. She thanked him for letting her back in and said that acceptance saved her. Even though her past caught up with her the past years being involved with them were the most joyous times of her life. She said she never regretted having him and he was her light for so many of his early years. She apologized for not being able to protect him and keep him safe. Her heart was permanently scarred from all of the abuse he received until he finally fought back. She felt that the best thing for him was that he was taken away and although she missed him, she knew it was for the best. Several times she mentioned how much she loved him, Amy and their children. She spoke about each of them and what they meant to her, especially JT who she called her light. She talked about Amy and how wonderful she was to her and what a great pair they made. She confessed that at first she was a little jealous of her, but after spending more time realized how amazing she was as a wife and mother. She encouraged him to always care for her and never take for granted the love they shared. Ty struggled with several of the parts of the letter, especially the ones that mentioned her sorrow for what she had done to him. But when he neared the end of the letter he gasped and tears followed. Amy saw his distress and went to him and they read it together. She told him that she loved him completely and always did, even when she was so sick and messed up. She wasn't strong enough to fight for him and realized how much she missed in his life. But the last years they were together made up for it and she was leaving content that her son loved her and always would. She assured him she loved him and Amy and those kids of thiers. She was looking forward to meeting up with JT one day to check in on things and letting him know she is Ok. She was confident that this would happen and that her and JT talked about it more than once. As this point Ty was collapsing in sadness and leaned into his wife for support. Amy took a breath and whispered, "Ty your mom loved you so much and it seems she was so happy that you let her back in and showed her a life that she always wanted. I know it was hard for both of you but it was the right thing to do. What can any of us ask for more than the opportunity to pass away content and proud of what our children had accomplished." He looked up as his eyes began to clear gazing into her deep blue eyes. He mumbled, "I know I just wish it could have been longer, she deserved it." Amy leaned back and spoke to him, "Ty you gave her a lifetime of happiness and I know she was grateful for it. We can't control the past but you made the present and future bright and happy for her." He smiled and kissed her gently whispering thank you and I love you. They both knew that her words would be important to them as they moved forward in their lives. They also knew that together they would move on and continue to raise their family and have a fulfilling business that each bought them joy.
During the time up to the Board meeting everyone was busy at work but also preparing for the Board Meeting. Amy and Ty had brought Lyndy and Wyatt in on the preparations to give them the exposure and seek their input. They had several ideas on improvements and staff assignments. They were pleased with the setup but had some thoughts on how they could help areas of higher demand by moving people around. With their pending graduations both Lyndy and Wyatt knew their roles would expand. Lou and Georgie were doing the same with Katie and Caleb had reeled Clay in on the details of what they did. They four future new Board Members knew the transition would be smooth and were excited about the future of the family business. Privately, Lou, Jack, Lisa, Scott, Amy and Ty had decided to use the first meeting to appoint them as full Board members since Jack and Lisa would be stepping away. Max was preparing the official documents as well as the paperwork for the adjunct roles they were creating. This would be a large meeting as everyone was invited, so they decided to have it on a Saturday and move to a larger location offsite. Hudson offered them their city council meeting room which was perfect for them and Maggie's would provide breakfast and lunch. Afterwords a dinner was planned at Fairfield for the group as well as some of the spouses not at the meeting. Kid sitting was arranged with the Borden kids, the Walshe's and several others older kids with plans to have them all together at the Miracle Ranch and not surprisingly horses would be involved. Since it would be a full day into the evening the kid sitters would get all of the kids to their homes so they would be there when their parents arrived. The plan was set for one of the most important meeting of the company's history and would be discussed for years to come. In the week before the meeting there was also a lot of discussion and attention to how everyone was doing. Jack and Max were focused on the Bordens making sure they were faring well after the loss of Lilly. They went out of their way to spend time with each of them, asking them how they were and talking openly about how they were feeling. It wasn't uncommon to see them huddled with one of the kids, Amy or Ty. Jack focused on the kids, especially JT while Max spent a lot of time with Ty and Amy. A part of their healing was to make sure they were all doing well. Max and Jack took JT fishing one day when it was a little warmer to see how he was. They both sat in amazement as he talked of his grandma's death easily. He spoke calmly when Max asked him how he was doing. "I miss grandma a lot and I am sure you do as well. I know the pain is gone and she is with Grandma Marion and GG Lyndy now. I haven't had a chance to speak to her yet, but I know I will and when I do I will tell her we are all doing good. How are you guys doing?" Jack smiled at the young boy, "Well JT I am doing Ok and I know Max and I are happy you are doing well." Max added, "I miss her but she is still with us through you and your dad. You know you meant a lot to her." JT smiled, "Yeah she meant a lot to me too, I will never forget her." They continued to fish and when they got home, Max fill Ty and Amy in on their conversation as they were interested. They were all not surprised by his comments but still vowed to keep an eye on him.
It was the day before the Board meeting and the family settled for an early dinner less Lyndy and Wyatt. They were going out with Katie and Clay to have dinner at Maggie's and go to an early movie. It had been a long few weeks for everyone with work, school and everything else in their hectic lives. It was nice to sit down as a family including Desi and Jeremy, who were becoming regular guest at the house. Lyndy and Wyatt said their goodbyes right before they started to eat. After dinner, the kids all went their separate ways. JT was going to spend the night at Trent and Shawna' house and Maddie, Ricky and their group went to get ice cream in town. Annie and Addie also went out after dinner with Jeremy and Desi to listen to music in town but except for JT they all would be home for the night. Amy and Ty relaxed in the living room and talked about the Board meeting and how they were doing. She smiled cuddling into him, "Well this is nice, just you and me. I mean I miss the kids a little bit but when I am here it is all I need." She leaned up and kissed him deeply and he returned the kiss with the same passion. He smiled, "Well we have the house to ourselves and it's not like we have to wait up for our kids so…" She immediately stood up grabbing his hand and headed to their bedroom, locking the door. Although they had been intimate since Lilly's death it had been guarded. They each felt the desire to take the time tonight to really enjoy loving each other. Amy started by slowly undressing Ty moving her hands across his body slowly removing piece by piece. He smiled and took his turn, taking time to unbutton each button, unzip each zipper and gently pull her clothes off. They stood facing each other and embraced, kissing deeply and feeling each other's bodies melt into their pent up passion. Ty picked Amy up and carried her to their bed, gently laying her down. She looked up at him as he whispered, "I love you." Her smile and eyes widened as she answered simply, I love you Ty." Their kisses become more aggressive as their mouths and hands caressed every part of their bodies. Amy moved on top of Ty and moved her lips from his lips to below, as he arched his back and bringing him a pleasure as only she could give. He rolled her over and did the same resulting in moans and calling out his name breathlessly. They were both focused on each other as they helped their lovers forget the world around them. After almost an hour of foreplay Amy smiled seductively, gasping as he positioned himself entering her slowly. She immediately climaxed and moaned out his name a little louder than normal. He began moving in and out and she followed his thrust with her own. They were moving together in a frenzy of love that was just their own. They completely loved each other and tonight they were both going to show their partner how much. It was well into the night after multiple climaxes that they fell asleep in each other arms, together forever. Lyndy and Wyatt were the last ones to get home. They walked in quietly seeing that Maddie was sound asleep while Annie and Addie had just settled in and were talking in their room. She opened the door after a knock and whispered good night to her sisters. Wyatt got them a bottle of water and headed to their room. When the closed the door, he asked, "Did you say good night to your mom and dad?" She smiled, "Wyatt, you know the rule, unless it is an emergency, when the door is closed no interruptions." He laughed and grabbed her in for a kiss. She stopped back breathlessly, "So I guess I should lock our door?" He smiled as they got ready for bed. Tomorrow was going to be a big day for them as a couple, one that would set the stage for their future. He looked up and saw her come out of the bathroom with his favorite nightie, grinning seductively. "So my love, I can see you are not tired. Make love to me." Their night went on for a while until they fell asleep in each other's arms. The last few weeks had been challenging for the Borden's but with Lilly's words of support the future seemed to be bright. It was time to get back at it and her words definitely gave them the leg up they needed.