Chapter Seven
Letters of Love
A/N – Well I am not afraid to admit that the last chapter was very emotional for me and at times I had to step away. Like many, I have had several life experiences with cancer. My hope and based on your feedback I met the mission of showing that the support of the immediate Borden family for Lilly and Max along with each other is what makes them so special. Also other family members are supportive as well as usual. I have tried to show the Ridgeways perspective looking from the outside so I hope that worked as well. Just a warning, this next chapter will be extremely emotional and I plan to take the time to write it as perfect as I can. As always the Ridgeway storyline came to me while I was writing and to be honest so has the details of Lillys challenges. All of the Borden's are something, but as you can see JT is exceptional and I have plans to continue his storyline that way. Once we move past this I promise I will go all Borden as each of the kids have specific storylines that I plan to develop. But for sure as always has been my drive, Amy and Ty's love for each other and those around them will continue to grow and develop. I have to say, I am really enjoying myself and I hope you see my enthusiasm in my writing. I have received a bunch of feedback and you insights and ideas are what drive me. Keep them coming. Heavy Emotional Content – Enjoy!
RRR (Reader Review Responses) – I continue to receive reviews from readers I can't respond to, so I would like to respond here moving forward. Maynard, I appreciate you insights and commitment to my stories. I am sure at times I do mess up a name up or two but like you I arduously look back to ensure I am consistent even with almost one million words written so far. In my sequel, the Trudeau kids, outside of Haley will not be a part of the storyline. I have had the observation before that Lou is the only blood aunt of the Borden kids but I am a strong believer that Mallory and Soraya, who were like sisters to Amy are aunts just not by blood as well. Along with Cass, Ellory and others they are influencers on the kids and can also earn the honorary aunt status. My few real aunts were hardly a part of my life but I considered several of my parent's friends honorary aunts and uncles. For everyone's information, I do have detailed list of all my main and other characters that includes horses, old cars/motorcycles and months people were married or born. I will always strive for accuracy but will admit I have and will miss a few. Either way I thank you for your insights. M. Taiawa as always I am so please that you are enjoying the storyline so far. I hope to continue to bring quality and my personal touch to it. Paul, again I appreciate your in depth comments. Like you I was very emotional writing this last chapter as like many others, I have had several similar personal experiences. And a shout out to Hospice Nurses, I have never seen more amazing and caring people. I get the hug thing with GG Lyndy and I did most likely miss that. But I will chalk it up to the emotional situation and I felt JT needed one. 😊
Overall I am so impressed with the depth of knowledge of the detail of my writing from all my readers. I don't have a proof reader as this is a personal labor of love so I hope my missteps don't impact your understanding and belief of the overall content and direction I am taking. THANKS!
Over the rest of the week, life carried on as best it could. The cloud of Lilly's situation was there but everyone felt she would not want their lives to be impacted and that they all needed to carry on. At the Equine center, the plan with the Ridgeway horses stayed on task. By Friday, the plan was to have all four horses in full competition mode, ridden by not just both of the people working on them but the family as well. They were very impressed with Annie's jumping capabilities and of course Georgie was one of the best jumpers in the country although her Olympic days were past. When Richard and Rich Jr took them through the course, they immediately noticed that Hope and Glory seemed much calmer, especially after the spent some time with them before they attacked the course. Georgie laughed and spoke directly, "Well, it seems we have done a good job fixing you as well as your horses. Like we have said, whoever rides these guys always needs to regain their trust and reestablish it all the time, especially before a competition. I remember when I was in the Olympics other competitors would look at me like I was crazy because I was always grooming Phoenix and talking to him. They had people to do all that and I am sure that the methods that I learned here helped me win the gold medal. When I coached the team, I taught them join up just like you and it made them all better riders." Mr. Ridgeway laughed, "Well I better buy my ticket then, I am not too old to compete." They all laughed and continued to work with Hope and Glory. The Dressage team was also having a good day as Fred and Ginger continue to progress. Ginger was still a little hesitant at time and Amy realized that she really relied on Fred for strength and confidence. She spoke up, "You know let's change things up. Ellory, you take Ginger through the program first and Eloise, stand with Fred just outside the ring, so she can see him. She needs to be independent of his influence and I think if she knows he is watching she will do her job to impress him." As she expected, Ginger held her head up looking over at Fred making sure she did well. Evelyn and Eloise watched in wonder as the nervous horse showed a confidence that had been missing since the fire. Amy smiled, "I think that the fire really shook Ginger and that she equated Fred to her safe place. She whispered, "I think when the fire was going strong she panicked and the first thing she saw was Fred. She needed him and he was there for her. She still needs his strength and we have to help her realize she is strong on her own. Let's have Fred do his thing and then after lunch I want Ginger to be on her own, after we groom them together. Haley, up until then I want them to be together. I have a hunch she is ready. After lunch with the jumping team to go over the results of the morning, as planned Haley brought Ginger out for her ride and Eloise stayed with Fred. At first she looked around a bit but Amy settled her and Haley patted her, encouraging her to do well. Much to the delight of the Ridgeways, she performed very well. Amy smiled when they were done for the afternoon, "Well tomorrow its full speed ahead, I think they both are ready. The Ridgeways headed to Fairfield and Amy headed to the house happy to see her kids all there.
Back in Colorado, the events of the days before had really tired Lilly out, so she was in her room almost the entire day. Ty and Max visited during lunch and a couple of other times over the next few days but they couldn't' help but notice that JT and Maddie were the almost the entire day, except when she napped. Lilly gave instructions that they were not to be interrupted and needed to tell them when they were coming in. At lunch Ty noticed a table with pens and paper stacks close to the bed. When he asked JT what was going on he smiled, "Dad, it is Ok, grandma needs us to help her with something." Joy walked out with Ty and he whispered, "What is going on?" She smiled, "I don't know and she won't tell me. But Ty, she is weakening more and more. I am worried that her time is limited so whatever it is they are doing, she needs them to help." Ty stopped trying to catch his breath and Max came over and Joy put her hand on his arm, "Ty it is Ok, she is at peace and is very content with what is happening. She has told me time and time again that the two of you and your amazing families saved her. You helped her live the late part of her life like she had wished she always could of. She is not sad about her past only grateful for what you all gave her." Ty understood as Max put his arm around Ty's shoulder, "Ty let's go for a ride, I want to show you are new offices." In Lilly's room, Maddie and JT sat patiently as she spoke to them, taking notes. She was weak but had found a strength to finish her project. She took a lot of breaks and rang for Joy when she needed her. Lilly smiled, "You two are my little angels but remember, I also need both of you alone for a bit too. They understood and over the next few days, when Lilly had the strength, they sat with her. Most of the time she would talk, but when it was needed they would read to her, to make sure it was what she wanted. It was nearing the end of the week and they were able to change Maddie's flight to Sunday as the Ridgeways decided to leave the following Monday. She and JT would fly home together and Ty would stay a bit longer. Lilly insisted that they needed to get back to school and even though they protested she won out. They were able to finish the project and spent the rest of the time with her, even though she continued to get weaker. She made sure that Maddie kept the project with her secured in her luggage with instructions to the both of them on what to do. The Bordens were being strong but each of the were dealing in their own way. Ty was strong for his kids but deep down he was so sad that after everything that happened to his mom she had found peace and love. But for him, she found him and she saw the love of the family that Amy and him had nurtured. She always said that she looked forward and the last part of her life was filled with enough good that the past was irrelevant. He would miss her but knew she was content and happy. When they chatted she reminded him that she loved him, Amy and the kids and thanked him for allowing her back. She reminded him to stay in contact with Max and his family as well. He assured her telling her, "Mom they are our family now two." She smiled and thanked him. Although Maddie was usually with JT she did spend a few moments alone with her and Lilly reminded her that she was an amazing young woman and that her family loved her. She laughed weekly, "Maddie you are a light in the darkness. Don't ever lose your love of helping others, it is a gift." Maddie smiled and started to tear up as Lilly added, "No time for tears honey, only happiness." JT really wasn't having visits, he basically was there all the time. On several occasions, Maddie or Ty would get him to step out along with Lily, especially when she was struggling. There conversations were about the project they did, his visits with his grandma and great grandma, school, his friends and anything else he could think of. He knew he had to leave so he didn't want to miss any chance to be with her. Deep down he was sad but understood what was happening and needed to be there for her. All three would look back at these days and smile that they had the chance to be with her when she needed them the most.
Back at the Miracle Ranch, things carried on although there was always a cloud of concern with the family and others that were around them. Amy talked to Ty several times a day and each time her emotions were rattled. Her girls and Wyatt were home every night to be with her at dinner and for the nightly family call. As the week progressed, Lilly was not able to make it but she made sure she spoke to each of them individually when she had the strength, normally with Ty, Maddie or JT by her side. The calls felt good and bad and they all cherished them. As Amy stayed in touch with Ty, Annie and Addie called Maddie a lot providing her support and the love she needed. Lyndy was there for her mom and dad as well, while Wyatt and JT talked a lot. At dinner one night, Lyndy couldn't help but notice that Wyatt was very quiet. As they laid in bed that night he was quiet and she rolled over to hold him, "Ok you need to talk to me, what is going on." She giggled, "Do I need to tickle it out of you or maybe do this," reaching her hand under his t-shirt. She wore his favorite pajamas in hopes it would cheer him up but he remained quiet. She noticed his eyes were watery and finally sat up and taking him up as well. She grabbed his arms and looked into his eyes, "I know what is bothering you but babe, you need to talk to me, I am going to be your wife." He took a breath and spoke softly, "When I was talking to JT earlier, I heard it." She looked at him, "Heard what?" "He knows Grandma Lilly is dying and he is very upset. He confided in me that he cries himself to sleep every night and asked me if I did it to when my grandma was dying. Lyndy, I choked, I didn't know what to say, how to sooth him. What kind of brother am I." The depth of his sadness finally came out and Lyndy went to hold him. After a few minutes she grabbed her phone. She dialed Maddie and asked her to take her phone to JT. He had been using it to call Wyatt and his mom. A groggy JT spoke up, "Lyndy? What's wrong." She giggled, Nothing silly Wyatt and I are calling you to see how you are." Wyatt smiled and spoke up, "Hey buddy, I am sorry I wasn't much help earlier but I can answer you now if you want." He responded with a yes as Wyatt continued, "When my grandma told me she had was dying, I was a little older but it was really hard for me. I realized that she was the only family I had and losing her would leave me all alone. I held it all in until your sister here came to my rescue. Between her, your mom and dad and my grandma I was Ok because I realized that I had family. The Bordens officially became my family when she passed and it turned the worst time in my life to the best." He took a breath and looked over to Lyndy who's eyes had misted up. They could hear Maddie sniffling as well. JT took over, "Wyatt you are my brother and everyone in our family loves you. And you have made me realize that I have all of you to. I am going to miss grandma when she is gone but I hope I see her when Grandma Marion and Great Grandma Lyndy check in from time to time. Wyatt thanks you for helping me. I know you don't think so but you have." They said goodnight and they climbed back into bed. He smiled, "Thank you Lyndy, you are amazing." She giggled as he whispered, "And I love those pajamas." Their night would be filled with love making, the closeness helping each feel loved and comforted. The pleasure they gave each other was intimate, caring and thank goodness quiet, outside of the moaning of each other's name. After they settled, they slept well realizing that the rest of the week would be a challenge for everyone. They knew the family would face it together as they always did.
Now that Maddie and JT weren't leaving until Sunday it gave Ty and Max more time to talk about Lilly's wishes. They set up several times where they could call Amy as they both felt she needed to be included. Ty because he needed her and Max because he knew how much Amy meant to his wife. The first call was the most difficult as Lilly was there as well. She calmly spoke to her with a sudden burst of energy, "Amy, I love you like a daughter and although I have said it before, thank you and your family for saving my son. When I see you two and what you have created I burst with pride. You two are meant to be and I know will always be there for each other and your kids. I do have a favor though, check in on my Max from time to time. He saved me and brought me back to you guys. Being able to reconnect and become a part of your family made my past disappear and I go now with a full heart. Ty, your father gave me you but Max gave me, me." She laid back and took a breath as Ty spoke, "mom you need to rest." She smiled, "My love that will come soon but I just need you to know that my life has been perfect because of you. Amy and Ty, please make sure the kids are Ok, especially JT. He means more to me that you will never know. I will tell you a secret. He reminds me of you Ty and I have had a second chance to give you a good childhood through him. It's like God sent him just for me and I can't tell you how much it has meant to me." She took a weak breath, "We even promised each other that we would talk again when he sees Marion and Lyndy. That boy is special Ty and Amy, please make sure that he is Ok after I am gone." Amy listened misty eyed as Ty and Max did as well. She smiled warmly, "Enough of the tears, I want our time together to be happy. I have already told Max, I want to be cremated and come home to Hudson. He has instructions on who I want to get them and also where I want the remainder to be spread. It puts me at peace that I know that you will be able to do this for me." She weakened and left with Ju as Max took over. "Amy and Ty, when we are ready, I will head up with the girls and their husbands so we can have a service and spread her ashes. If it's not imposing she wants them spread on the ridge by your family cemetery. She wants to be close to Marion and Lyndy so we can get together sooner." They all smiled understanding her wishes. Joy stepped in, "Time for this young lady to rest." After kisses from Ty and Max and an I love you from Amy they continued the call in the lounge so she could rest. As they sat, Amy remined on the phone and spoke quietly, "Ty, I wish I could be there with you and Max." Ty smiled, "Amy I know but I expect I won't be too much longer. I can't help but realize that she is ready and every time we talk I prepare for it." Joy walked out and joined them. "Well she is sleeping and to be honest, I am amazed at the strength she showed. But I am here to be honest. She has little time left. I expect a week or less based on my experience. I am not family but I have seen enough that tells me that the kids should go home as I am sure they understand that she will pass soon. Ty, she is your mother but of course you staying is your call. The last few days, I don't expect she will be conscious but I firmly believe she will know you and Max are here with her." Ty looked down and then at Max, "I am staying, I want to be here." Amy smiled and spoke up, "Ty, of course you need to stay and you have all of us here for you whatever you need. Joy, I am going to come down, would mid-day on Monday be Ok?" She smiled, "Yes that would be fine. And I think that would be wonderful." Ty smiled and whispered, "Thank you Amy." She now spoke softly, "Ok, I will book with an open return ticket today. Lyndy and Wyatt will manage things here and I already told Georgie Katie, Lou and Grandpa. The Ridgeways are leaving on Sunday and the rest of the clients will be handled." She giggled, "Max, do you have a place for me?" He laughed, "Amy, you are always welcomed here." Everything was set. The Borden's back home continued through the weekend and prepared for the return of Maddie and JT and the fact that their mother was leaving the next day. In Colorado, Ty and Max talked with Maddie and JT and although a little reluctant they understood and made sure they spent time with their grandma, even when she was sleeping. Maddie helped her brother pack and made sure the small box from Lilly was securely placed in JT's luggage. They knew what they had to do and were prepared to take care of her wishes.
Sunday came to quickly for Maddie and JT and each of them spent time with Lilly before they had to leave. They hugged Max and their dad a number of times through the day until Max's daughter and husband took them to the airport. JT spoke softly to Lilly, telling her that he loved her and that she could rest now. He smiled and whispered, "I will see you soon grandma, everything is going to be Ok." Before he left the room, JT spoke to Joy, "Thank you for taking care of my grandma, I know she really appreciates it. You will always have a place in my heart along with our family. You are an angel." Joy smiled and hugged him tightly, "JT thank you and I need to say this, you made your grandma's life better. She talked about you all the time and I have never seen anyone love someone more than she loves you." The ride to the airport was quiet as the two youngest Bordens knew that would be the last time they see their grandma. Maddie called her mom and let her know they were on the way and promised her to text when they took off. Amy promised she would be there with their siblings and were heading to Heartland for dinner. She handed the phone to JT and he whispered to his mom, "Mom, we are Ok and I am so glad we came to be with her. Dad is Ok too and even though he won't admit he is so happy you are coming tomorrow to be with him." Amy smiled and told them to have a safe trip." As she hung up she felt relieved that they were Ok and looking forward to being there with Ty tomorrow. The rest of the day went on as Ty and Max sat in the room with Lilly and talked. Lilly was not engaged as she was sleeping peacefully. They went over the details again so they both understood because when she passed they expected that emotions would be high and their ability to think may be affected. Throughout the afternoon Helena and Sienna along with their families visited off and on. Ty realized firsthand how important they were to his mom and that they would definitely be there for Max, who would be dealing with the loss of a second wife. He was amazed at his strength having to go through this two times and spoke to him quietly, "Max, I know I have said this a million times but thank you for bringing my mom back to me. And I am so sorry that you are having to go through this again. But I can see that your family is amazing and will always be there for you." He smiled, "Well I never really had time to prepare for my first wife's passing as she went very quickly and to be honest it took a long time to get over it. We were high school sweethearts and were together through college and building our family. Lilly brought a new light to me when I thought I could never love again. After such a horrible life, I was still able to see the gentleness and caring in her and we just seemed to gel. I am lucky to have loved two women very deeply and I will miss her. But I now have you, Amy, Jack, Lisa and all those kids. She will live on for me through them. I suspect the same will happen for you, so don't miss any of that. You know JT was talking to me about some of his conversations with her and they are both convinced that he would meet up with her in his dreams. His look told me that those thoughts gave him some solace and happiness. And from what I could see it did the same for her. Ty, she is ready and we need to be too." Ty sat quietly marveling at this man who came into their lives and how lucky they were to have him and his family in it. Amy and the kids were waiting for the travelers when they walked through security. JT ran to his mom as Maddie did to her sisters. They were happy to see each other even though they knew the reason why. JT was quiet as they went to get their bags and head to the big SUV. Wyatt and JT walked side by side joking and enjoying being back together. Lyndy smiled warmly watching the love of her life comfort her little brother and couldn't help but see him be the same with their kids. Amy leaned over, "He's going to be a great father one day, he is a keeper." She smiled and leaned into her mom smiling at the two of them together. The ride home was subdued and JT mainly talked about the visit and Grandma Lilly. When they got home he took his own bag to his room, closing the door and removing the box. He smiled and hugged it before placing it under his bed. Dinner was at Heartland so they went on their way to be with family.
The next morning the Borden's had breakfast and went on to school. Amy was packed and even though she was offered several rides to the airport she wanted to drive herself in Old Blue, which Addie had given a thorough check the night before. She wanted to be able to come home alone with Ty and felt the old truck would comfort him. She was happy to see her flight was on time and after some final texts boarded the plane. Right before she took off she texted Ty, as planned and let him know they were taking off. She was nervous but excited to see him and be with him for this challenging time. Amy had only been there a few times but she always marveled at the setting of the Colorado Rockies. She felt the view at home was much better but seeing them against such a large city was always beautiful. She grabbed her bag and deplaned anxious to see who came and got her but mostly to see Ty. The airport was huge but she followed the signs to the exit to baggage claim. She remembered Max's daughters but took some time scanning the crowd to find them. To her surprise she saw Helena first but next to her was Max, Ty and Sienna. Helana waved to her as she went through the gate and she walked quickly over. Before she got to them she realized what they all were there to get her for a reason she feared by their looks. She picked up speed and ran into Ty's arms as he was sobbing, burying his face in her neck, like a child. She said nothing handing her bag to Max and just holding him. She grabbed Max's arm tightly as she also saw his grief. His daughters went to get her bag as they just stood there for a few moments. Onlookers would just think that it was a loving reunion, not knowing that his mother had passed away during the night. When the women returned they decided to find a place to sit and have a coffee. Helana returned with them and Amy leaned back and looked at her husband. Unable to speak, Max spoke, "Joy got us up a few hours after midnight and let us know it was time. We rushed in to be with her and while we sat on either side of her, she passed very peacefully. Joy was amazing and said the effort she made over the last several days was tough but necessary for her to say what she wanted. She was at peace now and no longer in pain." Amy hugged Ty tighter as he finally spoke, "She did really seem so calm as she had her last breath. It was sad but in a way the best for her, which is all that matters." Amy smiled and looked at Max moving over to him for a hug as well. She whispered, "Thank you, I am so sorry." They stayed a little while longer and then gathered up Amy's bags and headed to the car. While driving home they chatted intermittently and Max spoke up, "Amy, just to let you know Lilly was picked up but th funeral home where the cremation is going to happen. We were planning to see her later and say our final goodbyes with some of our family here. After that we are going to have a dinner together and of course you two are invited. Any Ty, I want to go over the details of Lilly's ashes. She was very specific on what she wanted so before you head home we will gather the ashes for Alberta and you can head home. Or if you want I can bring them up later, you can just think about it." Amy asked, "Did she have a will?" He smiled, "Well she is married to a lawyer and we had a simple will. The ashes distribution in in there along with some of the other items she had. She didn't have a lot but for her she never needed it. She used to always say, I have all I need with my two families." Ty smiled, "Yeah, That sounds like her. When I was young we never had a lot since my dad gambled everything we had away and she always use to tell me, before the addiction started that all she needed was me." The rest of the ride was quiet. Max walked in with Ty and Helana and Sienna took Amy to their room with her bags so she could freshen up. When Amy came downstairs she heard talking in the kitchen and found that Max's son in laws were there as well as a few of their older children. Joy was also there and Amy went to hug her as well, thanking her for everything. Joy smiled, "Lilly was a joy but you know what. She was that way because of all of you, especially your little man, he is a special person and was her strength." They all smiled and had some coffee and light snacks.
They planned to go to the funeral home around 5:00 but first Amy and Ty needed to call home. She had texted Lyndy to gather everyone up for a call around 4:30. Max was going to call Jack, Lisa, Lou and Scott and ask them to share the news with other family, but not the Borden kids. Amy and Ty rested and then made the call as planned. The kids were upset but also happy that their grandma was at peace. JT was the most vocal and although devastated, knew that his grandma and friend was happy and not in pain anymore. They promised a call back later after dinner and JT spoke up, "Well Maddie and I have something to share so can Grandpa Max and his family be on the call too?" Amy smiled a little confused, "Of course, let's call at 7:30. Is that Ok?" They all agreed and after a lot of I love yous they hung up and headed over to the funeral home. Max mentioned that his call went well with the Heartland group and said that you could call them when you wanted to, anytime. Amy and Ty smiled as Amy got a text from Lyndy that everyone was Ok and they were going to eat pizza and get ready for the call. JT had some box that him and Maddie took into her room. The visit to the mortuary went well as everyone got closure being able to see her one last time. The cremation was scheduled for the morning and Ty and Max decided to be there. Once ready the ashes would be divided up per her detailed instructions. They would be ready for pick up the next morning so Amy and Ty booked there flight home on later that afternoon. Max, his daughters and their husbands would fly up Friday night and stay the weekend as the family had a service as well planned where her ashes would be spread. Plus, again per JT's request, him and Maddie had something for everyone. The all family call went well as everyone told stories about Lillys using the conversations to help better handle the loss of her. Amy let the kids know when they were arriving and Jack and Lisa were picking them up. Even though they had decided to wait, Addie tried to pry their secret out but they said they would share it after the spreading of Grandma Lilly's ashes when they got together at the Miracle Ranch. Her ashes would be put in several small decorative urns, one for Max and his family, the Bordens and one for the Heartland ranch house. On more very small urn was going to be given to JT as Lilly wanted to make sure he understood what he meant to her. The remaining ashes would be spread on the Ridge by the family cemetery. Some would head up in trucks but the Bordens, Sienna and her husband, who were riders, would go up on horseback. Invites were extended to Casey, the Webers, O'Dell's, Walsh's, Saunders and Fosters. Several people including Ellory, Ellie, Maddie a Jenn offered to watch the kids not going and get things set up for the dinner at the house, catered by Maggie's. Rusty and the gang would also set up the small tent and made sure there was enough chairs and tables. The best thing for Amy and Ty was getting back home to see the kids. They all were excited when they saw them sitting on the porch when they got home from school. Amy and Ty spent the rest of the week working and catching up and the routine went back to normal. Max and his group arrived and it was a little larger than expected so Ty, Amy and Wyatt took two vehicles to fit them all. Max, his daughters and their husbands stayed at their cottage that Max still wanted to keep to use when they came to visit. The rest of his clan was spread out among local family. The plan was to head out to spread her ashes after a late brunch at Heartland and then come back to the Miracle Ranch in time for the midafternoon gathering. The hope was that guest would leave early so JT and Maddie could do their thing just with family.
The ceremony on the ridge was very nice. It was a pretty large group, not only there for Lilly but for the Bordens and Max's family. Max thanked everyone for coming and spoke first, "Lilly always talked about this spot. It seems it is a favorite spot of Ty and Amy's and she felt that connection. She was so grateful for what you all did for her son, especially you Amy, Jack, Lou, Scott and everyone else. In her wildest dreams she never thought he could experience so much love since the majority of her life had none." He hesitated as Helena and Sienna grabbed his hands. "Like Jack, I have had the honor to love two woman and Lilly Borden was a perfect wife and companion. I will miss her." He stepped back as Ty took over. "Max thank you for your part in helping my mom come back from a dark place. You saved her for us and I, we will never forget it. I told Amy a story about my mom and how happy and carefree she was when I was a little boy. We didn't have much but she always made things special for me telling me that I was her light. As she struggled through the years of abuse and addiction, I know deep down that love was still there and I can't tell you how happy it made me feel to see her in the latter part of her life and you were all a part of that. I will miss her and always cherish the times we had together. I love you mom." Max asked if anyone else wanted to say anything and several people told stories. JT patiently waited and went last. "I love everyone here, but Grandma Lilly was my best friend. We had a connection and were always there for each other. It was like we knew what the other was thinking and knew when we needed to call each other. Kind of like Annie and Addie." Everyone chuckled. "I will miss our talks and time together. I know I will see her again. Last night, Grandma Marion and Great Grandma Lyndy told me that they would see her soon and when ready, I would be able to speak to her again. I am lucky to have that but I hope you know that she will always be there for all of us if we need her. I love you grandma." Everyone was quiet trying to gain their composure back after his comments. Ty and Max took the ashes and flung them into the air as everyone said goodbye. They all headed back to the house and as planned everything was set up. The get together was perfect as there was a lot of laughing and storytelling. Many were focused on Ty and his early days of trouble making. JT was holding court with all the kids telling them all about his grandma and how awesome she was. While everyone was enjoying the food, Sienna and Helana came over to Ty, Amy, Jack and Lisa. Sienna spoke softly, "Amy, Ty, we always knew how close JT was with Lilly but what he said on the ridge was one of the most amazing things we ever heard from such a young boy." Helena continued, "Lilly loved him so much but his control and composure talking about his dream last night was unbelievable. He is a special young man." Amy and Ty smiled as Jack spoke up, "JT is an old soul and mature way beyond his years. When I saw the two of them together it warmed my heart. I could see the reason why Marion and Lyndy continue to reach out to him." He laughed, "And Max can tell you he is quite the fisherman too." They all laughed and went about the rest of the party. Max gave out the urns for the families when he got everyone's attention but decided to give JT his when it was just the family. He also surprised Casey with a small urn as well as she had become good friends with his wife. The group dispersed and only family was left. They sat quietly reflecting on the day when Maddie and JT slipped into her room. They emerged with a box and smiles on their faces. The group quieted as they waited for the two youngest Bordens to take th floor.
JT set the box on the table so everyone could see it. He looked over to Maddie and she began to speak. "Well, dad and Grandpa Max can vouch for us but the first few days we were there, JT and I spent a lot of time alone with Grandma with strict rules to not be bothered. The only person allowed in was Joy in case she needed anything. We were working on something she said she needed to do, so we were there to help her." She looked at JT and he took over. "When grandma was here we talked about something she wanted to do and she would need my help. She wanted to write letter to everyone so we all knew what we meant to her. We planned to do it over the phone and thought it would take a few weeks. When she got sicker, I knew her time was limited, especially since GG Lyndy had told me. So, I convince my dad to bring me with him and also asked to bring Maddie since I knew I would need her help. So over a few days we sat with her and she told us what to write for everyone. They only two letters we didn't work on together were the ones for each other." He laughed, "And we had to kick Joy out when she wrote one to her." Everyone laughed again as he continued, "So again per her wishes, tonight we will hand out everyone's letters. Most are personal but she also has one for the Heartland and Miricale Ranch staff and extended family. We also have one for Joy that we need you to take home. Sienna, Georgie, Katie and Helana, your letters are for your entire families." JT took a breath seeming to get a little emotional as Wyatt stepped over and pulled him into a hug. Maddie took over. "So we will hand them all out with some instructions, but she wants us all to read them tonight privately." Over the next few minutes they personally delivered the letters to each person. Casey gasped when JT handed on to her as he whispered, "She really loved you Casey although he is sick he loves grandpa too." She burst into tears and hugged him tightly. The last two handed out were the ones they had for each other. When everything was delivered, JT encourage them to go somewhere private and open them up. "And we can all meet back here when we are all done because we have one more thing." After about a half hour they all came back one by one or in couples. As they returned everyone was smiling but had tears in their eyes. It seemed every letter was very personal and was written with love and there were hugs and tears all over the place. As soon as everyone was back Jack spoke up, "Well I have to say that was amazing and so well written. JT and Maddie you did a great job scribing these for her and I for one am overwhelmed with her words." Amy smiled, "The personal details are perfect. Ty and I read each other's and they couldn't have been more perfect." Everyone smiled in agreement. Maddie spoke up, "Aunt Lou and mom, grandma wanted the ones for the staff posted." Lou smiled, Actually I think we will do that and also scan them and send an email blast out to everyone on staff." Everyone shook their heads in agreement and JT spoke up again, "So we have on more thing. Grandma made a tape for us to play tonight. Maddie and I have heard it so here it goes." Maddie turned up the volume on her phone as everyone gathered closely. They heard Lilly's voice a little weak but understandable. "Hello, is this thing on Maddie? Ok, well hello everyone, I hope by now that you are all read my letters of love. I need to thank JT and Maddie for putting up with me and doing a great job." She cleared her through and took a drink, "Ok I need to be short because I am getting a mean look from Joy. I have not always been the most articulate but as Ty will tell you I always like to write. I wanted to tell each of you what you have meant to me over the last several years after my Max brough me back to you. My life was not easy by my fault and the fault of others. Ty, I have said this a million times, but I am so sorry I made things so bad for you, but I think that we have made it back and have a true loving mother/son relationship. Jack, Amy and Lou thank you for your part in helping my son. Borden kids, you have made my life full and complete as well as your families, Helana and Sienna. The love that surrounded me over the last years of my life has more than made up for the bad times." She stopped and they could hear Joy whispering to her. She sighed, "Ok Nurse Cratchit says I have to end this. So, I love every one of you so very much. You have made me one happy wife, grandma mother in law and friend. Have great lives and keep me in your thoughts. As you have heard, I will stay in touch when I catch up with JT in his dreams. I love you all." The room was silent as many quietly sobbed. All of a sudden Maddie clicked her phone back on as Lily's voice was more determined. "An no more tears, the future for all of you is bright and remember me for the good times we had, I know I will." JT laughed, "That was my idea and buy the way Nurse Cratchit is some mean nurse from a really old movie." That broke the group into laughter as they sat and chatted a little while longer before heading home. Amy and Ty said goodnight to the kids and spent a little more time with JT and Maddie thanking them for being there for Lilly. As they got into their room, Amy could tell Ty was done. She helped him undress and into bed. She got a bottle of water for both of them and forced him to drink. She held him all night making sure he was Ok, but to be honest it helped her too.