Chapter 270 – The First Surprise of the Day

The week flew by and before anyone realized it was Wednesday evening. It had only been three days but so many things had happened, besides the usual dealings with the horses. Three dozen thoroughbreds had arrived ahead of the races starting the following weekend and with them they brought a dozen jockeys, who along with others who were already in Saratoga for the season were hanging out over with Manny and helping to breeze the horses. It had been one of the jockeys who figured out what the problem was with Irish Charm. One of the seasoned jockeys had sat on the railing of the small paddock that Irish Charm was in and watched the horse roll and rub his ear on the ground, then get up and shake its head, only to repeat it several times over the course of an hour. The jockey talked to Manny about checking the horse's ear and low and behold, Irish Charm had an ear ache and was in pain. Dr Matthews came out, flushed out the ear and started a course of antibiotics.

Several of the other jockeys had also ridden Midnight's Run like Jack had, holding him along the rail. They had reviewed the video of the accident and all agreed it had been Irish Charm who was the aggressor and the infection had likely already been brewing, so they wrote letters of support to let both horses race once the clearance from the vets came. Word came down Wednesday morning that both Irish Charm and Midnight's Run would be allowed to race once cleared but the officials would be keeping a close eye on both and if there were anymore instances, there would be an agreement for not allowing them to continue without significant changes. Jack wasn't happy as he knew what that meant, but accepted the decision. Several of the jockeys agreed at least some kind of blinker cups would be needed for Midnight's Run at least to start.

Jack was also able to get his gate school done and since one of the older jockeys was a licensed track official in the state of New York, he signed off on the paper and Manny sent off the paperwork and Jack was glad he had his temporary jockey license and his regular one would arrive at the ranch before the end of the summer. Manny also did the paperwork to submit to the insurance so Jack was covered if he was injured while riding.

Connie had taken to helping her father in the office until she could ride again, so paperwork was getting completed in a more timely manner. It also made Jack realize that someone who just dealt with paperwork, insurance and registration forms as well as making sure everyone had the current regulations was badly needed. It was currently a hodgepodge of people doing it and much of it fell to James when others couldn't handle it. After speaking with both his grandfathers, they put a job advertisement out with the minimum qualifications needed to be considered. They weren't sure how many applicants they would get, but they had to try.

The other paperwork that Connie had submitted was the preliminary paperwork to get Elizabeth's owners license in the process. Those applications took longer and Connie knew she would need it if she was going to the Breeder's Cup like Jack was talking about with her and her father. Because of something that Jack had mentioned, Connie was also looking into what it was going to take to get Frank an assistant trainers license since he was going to be helping with the horses. She also looked into that for Nathan as well, at least that way they would be covered under the insurance if something happened. Connie also knew that it would be easier to get them passes for the races and Breeder's Cup. At least working in the office made taking six weeks off easier. She hated not being able to ride, but once she realized how much help her father needed with the paperwork, she was more then okay to get him caught up so he could focus on the horses.

… … … …

Father Mark took Frank to his appointment on Monday morning and it was good news. Frank still wasn't cleared to ride or drive, but he could go without the patch during the day. His vision was still a little blurry and there was still some swelling, but all signs pointed to a full recovery, at least to where he was prior to being hit. The doctor said as soon as his vision was clear he could drive, but not after dark yet. The doctor asked him to hold off on riding until at least the end of the month. An appointment was made to return in August and hopefully Frank would get the all clear then. While in town, the two stopped at Walmart and picked up several things that Gran had asked for, including two twenty-five pound bags of sugar.

Trish and Gran had left right after breakfast on Monday to run errands. They had stuff to drop off and pick up at the dry cleaners, an order at Primal, they needed to go to the bank and pick up the strawberries, blackberries and raspberries for jam, especially since some of them had been flown in from orders placed months ago. When Trish dropped Gran back at the ranch to get things started, she took off again as they realized they needed more jars and lids so Trish ran to Albany since Gran had called around and couldn't find any in Saratoga. Trish also said she would pick up some of the groceries they needed and would be back as soon as possible. Abigail had arrived just before lunch time with Cody and since she had eaten, started in on the strawberries right away. Cody had insisted on sitting with Jack and Doug and having a few bites despite having eaten a late breakfast.

Monday afternoon was spent baking and making jam, Father Mark, Frank and Elizabeth all helped. Others came and helped as they finished other tasks. The girls had been sent to do their piano work and also some of their homework. Lee had been busy most of the day with the last minute details that were needed for the show. When he checked, he realized that all four of the lower classes were full and there were a dozen or so requests to see if they could be accommodated. There were a few spots in preliminary and one in intermediate left and five slots in the advanced class when Lee printed the lists on Monday afternoon. Jack, Doug, Lee and Elizabeth had sat and agreed to allow the extra riders in the lower classes as there were not that many opportunities for them to ride. Lee sent each of them an email, with instructions on how to send the information so he could add them and payment was due upon arrival and check in.

Monday's supper was leftovers to make it easier on everyone and give Gran the fridge room she needed. After supper was still busy as Gran and Trish did another batch of jam and the guys, minus Jack, went over the show details. Jack and Elizabeth were in the library doing a couple of marriage prep lessons. They also took the time to pray with Father Mark who had checked on them. They had another needed conversation, this one more about their expectations when it came to what the other wanted in the marriage. There were parts that were hard to get through, but they were able to agree on a plan and once Elizabeth was pregnant, they would look more heavily into hired help until they were both finished with school. It hadn't been exactly what Jack wanted, because he hadn't thought about a maid and help cooking if they were both in school and also dealing with a little one. The compromise was they would hire the help and if it was found they weren't needed as often, they would adjust. It was also agreed that the maid and/or cook would come from the agencies already familiar to the family so contracts would be easier.

… … … …

Tuesday was much the same – horses, jam making and baking. Frank and Father Mark also headed into town to pick up the remainder of the groceries that were needed through the weekend, knowing there was going to have to be a trip to the farmers market Friday morning. They were also able to get Frank's banking stuff finalized on that trip. Another fridge/freezer combo was delivered to the ranch for the garage because Gran had found they needed it, so she had ordered one to be delivered as soon as possible, especially since she wasn't picky on color. By Tuesday evening it was already filling up and so was the cellar next to the wine cellar where the canned goods were stored.

The only other thing that really happened on Tuesday was Jack and Elizabeth's appointments; they had been moved from Wednesday at the counselors request on Monday. Both met with their counselor. Elizabeth met with hers in the library while Jack took his meeting down at the stable, just so he could lock the door and ensure privacy. It ended up being a very productive meeting for both. Jack and his counselor were able to tackle some of the things around his mother and his not showing emotions very often. Jack's appointment ran long, but it was okay as it was needed and the counselors had planned on a double appointment time, so they had time to do the drive. Jack needed the time and it was a good outcome, his counselor encouraged him to talk to his grandfather about his concerns regarding the wedding and his parents potentially coming as well as his fears of failing him as he took over the farm.

Elizabeth also had a productive appointment and her counselor agreed that she was okay to get married, but that some counseling down the road when things were more settled would be worth it. She reminded Elizabeth that she was there, if something came up, but to keep up with her journaling and talking to people as needed. She told Elizabeth that she had surrounded herself with good people that were supportive of her and that she just needed to remain firm in her boundaries whether that was with Jack, his family or her family.

… … … …

Wednesday had actually turned into a whirlwind with a few surprises showing up at the ranch. The morning had started like normal with chores and riding the horses. Gran, Trish, Abigail and Elizabeth were finishing up the canning and starting to do some more baking. By the end of the day, they would have canned over one hundred jars of jam, mostly for the family and gifts come Christmas. Gran, Trish and Abigail had also made plans to do more later in the month and the beginning of August when the peaches arrived and then later when apples were ready. They also talked about getting flats of tomatoes to make more sauce, since they were down to the last couple dozen jars of pizza sauce. While they were waiting on a batch of jam, Gran started to make some calls to the area farms to get an idea of when tomatoes would be ready. After about a dozen phone calls, Gran had secured plenty of tomatoes starting the following week along with peppers and other fresh ingredients for salsa. They also added the various things that they would need to the grocery list that was growing by the hour as they cooked and baked.

The first surprise happened during lunch. The family had just sat down when the doorbell rang. James jumped up to get it, because as he looked around no one was expecting anything. When James opened the door, he found Bill there in uniform, hat in hand.

"Bill." James said in surprise.

"Sorry to interrupt your lunch." Bill said. "But I need to speak to Jack."

"Everything okay?" James asked.

"I can't say." Bill said. "But it is imperative I speak to Jack."

James moved aside to let Bill in and followed him to the dining room. When Abigail saw Bill, she immediately thought there was something wrong with one of the kids.

"Are the kids okay?" Abigail said, jumping up and going to Bill.

"As far as I know." Bill said. "I am here on business."

Bill then gave Abigail a kiss and leaned down to drop one on Cody's head.

"Jack." Bill said. "Can I speak to you in private, please?"

"Library or office?" Jack said.

"Library will be fine." Bill said.

Jack looked at his godfather, but Jack couldn't read the look on his face. He then looked at Elizabeth and shrugged at her unasked question. Bill put his hand on Jack's back and led him to the library. Everyone watched them walk away before going back to their lunch. James and Margaret exchanged a look, but neither knew what was going on.

… … … …

Once in the library, Jack turned to face Bill and for the first time saw the anguish in his eyes.

"What is going on Bill?" Jack said. "You look like someone died."

Bill took a deep breath and slowly blew it out.

"No, that probably would have been easier." Bill said. "Marcus called me and asked me to speak to you. I know how you feel, but I still have to officially ask since you are technically the owner of the property."

"Tommy." Jack muttered.

"Yes." Bill said. "They want you to allow him to come back here and work, it is the only way that he wouldn't be put in prison for a year for the assault on Frank. If you are willing, he will come back here and work until he leaves for school and then work here next summer as well. He will also have to work and complete his schoolwork. He will have weekly meetings with an officer and if he completes all the requirements of the program his record will be expunged. He could be charged as an adult and the governor is pushing this diversion project for first time offenders under the age of twenty one. The program is a one time offer and if he messes up, he will face severe consequences."

Jack didn't say anything, but walked to the door and stepped out.

"Frank, can you join us please?" Jack said.

Frank got up and walked to the library and once inside, Jack again closed the doors.

"Explain what you are asking to Frank." Jack said.

Bill quickly explained what he told Jack, then looked between the two.

"Jack?" Frank said.

"Everyone knows how I feel about this." Jack said. "You are the victim and the one who is going to be around more."

"And Blaine won't be back?" Frank said. "I like Ed, but his kid is another matter."

"I don't know about that." Bill said. "That would be John's call."

"As long as it is very clearly spelled out to Tommy." Frank said. "I won't have a problem, but he tries to hit anyone else on this property or tries to bully any child living or working here and we will have problems. Am I clear?"

"Absolutely." Bill said. "I can tell Marcus you agree with the added stipulation that he needs to be respectful of other employees and their families."

"If Frank is okay with it." Jack said. "Then I will agree, but I have my reservations. If I find this isn't working he will be gone."

"Understood." Bill said. "Call John and see what he wants to do about Blaine. If I call Marcus, Tommy could be back here by Friday evening."

Jack just looked at Bill.

"I know. I know." Bill said. "The show, but Tommy will be working, so no problem."

"Fine." Jack said.

"Then speak to your grandfather." Bill said. "And I will be here to see you guys jump on Sunday."

"Thanks." Jack said.

Then Jack walked over to the window, leaning on it and let out a harsh breath. Frank nodded to Bill who left. Frank waited a moment and then walked over to Jack.

"I know you didn't want to." Frank said. "But I truly believe giving him another chance is the best thing. A jail/prison sentence is hard to overcome. It will be up to Tommy to change, but at least you are open to giving him that chance."

Jack turned around and Frank could see the fire in his eyes.

"Just because I am giving him a chance." Jack said. "It doesn't change the fact I no longer consider him my brother or even family. The only reason I am even entertaining this idea is because I have seen how hard this is on my grandparents. As far as Tommy and I, we are finished. I will be damned if I am going to let him ruin my hard work or my grandfather's good name. Unless he can show he is truly sorry, he will never be a part of this family."

Jack balled up his fist, but then slowly opened it, flexing his hand a few times.

"Let's finish our lunch, I have things to do." Jack said, walking towards the door.

Jack walked out and back to his spot without saying anything. He immediately started to eat and everyone could tell he wasn't in the mood for questions. Frank followed a few moments behind Jack and also went right back to his lunch. Frank had seen the anger in Jack's eyes and knew that he was going to have to deal with it at some point, but was unsure how to help his friend at the moment. Frank was worried about letting Tommy back on the property, but he thought he was doing the best for everyone.

"JP, Frank." James said. "Thank you. Bill quickly explained. We can sit down and look at the specifics later."

"Nothing to talk about." Jack finally said. "Either he straightens out and does what he is told or he will be gone. No ands, ifs or buts about it. I am done and I am only agreeing to this for you and Gran. The less I see of him, the better because if he crosses me, I won't hold back my temper any more."

"John Parker." James hissed.

Jack looked at his grandfather with fire in his eyes, almost daring him to challenge what he said. It was Doug who put his hand on Jack's back and leaned over to whisper.

"Let it go." Doug whispered. "Not worth the energy. This is Tommy, he will screw up and then you can be done with him. He has had more than enough chances. Dad says not everyone can be saved. You have done what you can, it is up to him."

Jack just nodded and went back to his lunch. As soon as he finished with his food, Jack leaned over and gave Elizabeth a quick kiss. He wanted so much more at the moment and had to tell himself that it wasn't that long and they would be able to fully express their love. He also knew that with the way that he was feeling, it wasn't fair to push Elizabeth any more. He also didn't need to be physically frustrated as well, with everything else.

"I know I said I would sit with you this afternoon." Jack said. "But I need some time to myself."

"Go." Elizabeth said. "I understand."

Jack went to get up but Father Mark grabbed his arm.

"Two hours." Father Mark said.

Jack looked at him and looked like he was going to argue. Father Mark gave him a stern glare back.

"Two hours." Father Mark said. "I mean it. You are not a child any more and we have a lot left to do before the show. You need to figure out how to get your head straight and let some of this go."

Father Mark let go of Jack's arm and gave him one last glare. Jack closed his eyes and let out a harsh breath. He then opened them, looked at Elizabeth and then looked back at Father Mark. Reluctantly, Jack nodded his head.

"I will be in my room." Jack said.

Father Mark nodded and Jack walked off. Once he was gone, it was Elizabeth who turned to Father Mark first.

"Is he going to be okay?" Elizabeth asked. "He looked scary mad before."

"He will be fine." Gran said. "Even if we need to kick his butt a little. Father Mark is right, Jack isn't a child and needs to learn how to deal with tough things without lashing out at other people. We all understand that there has been a lot going on but he needs to get better about emotional regulation."

"Okay." Elizabeth said. "I am just worried."

"I am going to give him an hour and forty-five minutes." Father Mark said. "Then I will go talk to him."

Elizabeth nodded and the subject was dropped. James headed back to work and the rest started cleaning up so that Gran, Trish and Abigail could finish up with the cookie dough that they had made. The jam was cooling on the back counter and needed to sit until the next day.

… … … …

Author's Note: Here are the jam recipes

Strawberry Jam

Ingredients

2 quarts strawberries, washed and stemmed

1 package (1-3/4 ounces) powdered fruit pectin

6-3/4 cups sugar

Directions

Crush strawberries and measure 4-1/2 cups berries into a large saucepan. Stir in pectin and bring to a rolling boil over high heat, stirring frequently. Add sugar and return to a rolling boil. Boil for 1 minute, stirring constantly. Remove from heat; skim off foam. Ladle hot mixture into hot half-pint jars, leaving 1/4-in. headspace. Remove air bubbles and adjust headspace, if necessary, by adding hot mixture. Wipe rims. Center lids on jars; screw on bands until fingertip tight. Place jars into a canner with simmering water, ensuring that they are completely covered with water. Bring to a boil; process for 10 minutes. Remove jars and cool.

Blackberry Jam

Ingredients

2.2 pounds blackberries

12 ounce white sugar

2 Tbsp pectin

1 lemon, juiced

First, mash the blackberries and add with the lemon juice to the pan. Simmer for a few minutes to break the fruit down, and then press through a sieve or jelly bag into a bowl. Then simply place 2-3 spoonfuls of the seeds back into the jam or remove the seeds entirely for more of a blackberry jelly recipe (which uses the blackberry juice only). Then, in a medium heavy-based pan, add the sugar, blackberries, lemon juice, and pectin. Heat on low-medium heat, stirring constantly, to completely dissolve the sugar. This will eliminate the risk of grainy/sugar crystal formed jam later on. Bring the mixture to a boil (a rolling boil that can't be stirred down) at high heat for five minutes, without stirring. Use a spoon to make sure the jam isn't sticking to the bottom of the pan. If it is, then you can mix a couple of times and reduce the heat slightly. To check that the jam has reached setting point, either use a thermometer or the saucer test*. If using a thermometer, the temperature needs to be 105ºC/220ºF. Skim off any of the excess foam on top of the pan, for a clean jam. You can also add in a small amount of butter right at the end and stir to help disperse the rest of the foam/scum. Remove from heat and leave the jam to cool for 10-15 minutes. This will allow the berries to settle so that they don't sink to the bottom in the jars. Meanwhile, sterilize the jars you will be using for the jam and then place it in the oven for 10 minutes at 160ºC/325ºF to completely dry. Place the jar onto a wooden surface (or other heat proof surface) and transfer the jam to the jars. This process is easier with a canning funnel, but not necessary. Wipe away any spillage on the outside of the jar with a damp cloth and then seal the jars. Be careful not to touch the lip or inside the lid if you're hoping to properly 'can' your jam.

STORING:

If you plan to use the blackberry jam reasonably quickly and don't intend to properly 'can' it then It will last in the fridge for up to three weeks or in the freezer for up to 6 months.

You can also use the hot water bath method if you want to properly store your jam for long-term storage. That way, your jam will last up to 2 years in a cool, dry, dark location.

RASPBERRY JAM

INGREDIENTS

5 c. crushed fresh raspberries

4 c. granulated sugar

1 box pectin (low sugar variety)

INSTRUCTIONS

Combine the pectin with ¼ cup of the sugar and stir into the crushed raspberries. Place mixture into a large pot and bring to a full boil. Stir in the remainder of the sugar and allow to return to a boil and boil for 1 minute. Remove from heat and spoon off any foam. Immediately ladle into the prepared jars, filling to within ¼" of the top of jars. Clean off any jam that may have gotten on the edges of the jar tops. Place lid discs onto jar tops and screw on the rings. Place jars into a large, deep pot with a rack in the bottom. If you don't have a rack, you can use an upside down cake pan in the bottom. This is to keep the jars from touching the bottom of the pot and getting too much direct heat. Cover the pot with a lid and bring to a boil and allow to boil for 10-min. Remove jars to a countertop to cool and set up overnight.