Chapter Eighteen

Heading Down The Bumpy Hill

A/N – Well with the old saying that "What goes around comes around" I think it will be great to have Ashley back in the family business. And who knows what trouble those four amigos may get into. The family is definitely on the downside of the hill as the end of school and summer approaches. Lots of things happening for all of the kids as well as Amy and Ty. The main focus is finishing school for the kids and staying focused on the kids and work for Amy and Ty. Ashley's transition will be a storyline we will follow as well as prep for graduation, Lyndy's birthday and a trip to the Olympics. Oh and the documentary will be a lot of fun to write about for sure. I expect that is may result in the dream of satellite Rehoming Centers elsewhere become a reality. I may be repeating myself the Borden couples will continue to be the focal point and I plan to spend some time with Amy and Ty for sure. It should be a fun few chapter but also filled with possible challenges. I would greatly appreciate to hear from more of you so please send me a review or a note. Your feedback will be received and responded to. I have received several great ideas that I have incorporated into my story so don't be shy. Mature Content – Enjoy!

RRR (Reader Review Responses) Thanks again M Taiawa for your comments and like you it is nice having Ashley back. I will also looking into an update on Jack and Lisa soon. And Guest thanks again and I am glad you like having Ashley back as well.

After the particulars were signed off on the official announcement about Ashely was shared with the entire organization. For those who knew her, there was a lot of excitement and for others it was easy to find out about the Stanton family and the past from others. For those at the old Briar Ridge who worked for her mom, it was nice to see a familiar face and when she visited before she left for Colorado, many people were happy to see her. She would be moving up for good in a month along with her youngest son. Amy and Ty sat on the porch after dinner looking over the ranch, as the kids that were home were in the barn tending to the horses. They were really happy that Ashley was coming back even with their past, Amy now considered her a good friend. Ty laughed at her when they were talking about it, "It's crazy to think that Mallory, Soraya and now Ashely are back. You seemed really happy about them all being here. I like seeing you so happy." She smiled and leaned into him for a really tight hug as she seemed upset. He looked down, "Hey, what's wrong?" She hesitated and moved up to kiss him passionately. After a few seconds she whispered, "Every day I feel blessed and sometimes don't feel I deserve everything I have." Sensing the need to let her talk, Ty listened attentively as she continued. When I look at our jobs, our company, our kids and what we have all accomplished, it is overwhelming. When I worked with Spartan all those years ago I never imagined that this would become my reality. I mean Ty, look at our kids. Lyndy and Wyatt are graduating and getting married. She is at the top of her class and a beautiful, confident and accomplished young women. Wyatt has excelled at his schooling and will join us not only as an official son-in-law but a DVM along your side. Annie is an amazing show jumper and has an amazing way with horses. She is kind and considerate and has such a fresh outlook on life and she is in love with a great young man. Addie is one of a kind. She is driven, opinionated and exceptionally perceptive. She is going to do amazing things and her relationship with Desi is fun and unique. But what warms my heart is how even today, her an Annie have a connection and will always be there for each other." She took a breath and Ty smiled hugging her for support. "And Maddie, she is our fireplug and is driven to help others more than anyone I have ever known. It is her whole existence and she is exceptional at it. I know her and Ricky are new to things but I definitely see a spark there." She sighed, "And then there is our little man who is so much more mature than his age. He is an amazing and complicated child and loves more than anyone I have ever known. His love is unconditional and when he loves you, he does anything to help you. There are countless examples of his commitment and focus on those who need him. And the whole Shawna thing is cute." She smiled and leaned into his chest again still sullen. "But one thing is the foundation of all of my happiness." He looked into her eyes as she whispered, "You are my rock and the love of my life. I can't imagine being on this journey without you by my side. Ty, you have always been there for me in good times and bad. You have always been my number one supporter and a person I could vent to or celebrate with. You are an amazing father and friend. You are brilliant and innovative vet as well as a great teacher." She hesitated, "Sometimes I can't believe how I can love one so much as I love you." She stopped and looked up misty eyed as he smiled. He chuckled, "so is there anything else I am amazing at?" She giggled and poked him in the ribs, "Ego much?" She leaned into kiss him again and the passion lingered for a few minutes until they heard someone running to them. Maddie spoke breathlessly, "Mom, Dad, it's JT's horse. Blue Boy is sick and down in his stall."

Amy and Ty grabbed their boots and hurried over to the barn. They walked up to Blue Boy's stall and a crowd of people were gathered. JT sat with his horse visibly upset and Steven, who had not left yet was looking him over. Maddie took her place behind her little brother as Amy joined her in supporting their brother and son. Ty joined Steven, "What is going on?" Steven talked quietly, "Well it shows like colic but the ranch hands said he was ridden today and seemed fine and he had been eating and drinking until we found him." Ty looked him over and concurred with Steven's thoughts but some of the symptoms were a little different. He spoke to the group, "We need to get him up so we can look him over better and if it is colic, he needs to be up." The distressed ranch hand who found him, "I don't get it? We took a bunch of the horses out for scheduled rides and I rode him. It was a great ride. We took them on the south trail down by the creek. He got a little skitzy as we got in the water but was fine. He was lively on the ride and when we got back we untacked them and gave them a snack that he gobbled it up." Seeing his distress, JT smiled up at him. "It's Ok and thanks for taking him for a ride today. It sounds like he had fun for sure." The ranch hand smiled as Maddie rubbed JT's back. Rusty brought the hoist over after several vain attempts to get him up so he could be upright. When they were setting it up the blood work came back and as Amy, a few of the ranch hands and the second shift tech got him up, Steven and Ty looked them over. Steven saw it first, "look at this level, I have seen this before from a dog that got bitten by a snake. I think that is what happened maybe when they went into the creek." Ty asked the ranch hand, "Did the horses take a drink from the creek?" He looked at him, "Yes we stopped and let them all drink, our ride had been pretty aggressive and they were tired. You know, now that you say that that is when he acted up. While he was drinking he pulled up a bit but then seemed fine. While they were talking Amy spoke up, "I just checked his shot record, his Tetanus shot was due last week." The tech frowned, "I'm so sorry we are running behind on all of the shots since we have been so busy. I was going to catch up tonight on them." Ty spoke calmly, "Ok let's just settle and look him over. If it is a snake bite we can treat it." He looked at the tech and asked her to prep a few things that they would need. Sure enough when they got him up they saw the bite on the side of his muzzle that he was laying on. "Ah there it is, the snake got him right here. There are some signs of swelling but I think we're are in time to treat it. Let's give him these injections and we will clean up the wound and them give him a minute to relax." After they finished they settled Blue Boy in for the night as JT along with Maddie begging to with him. Tomorrow would be a school day but the overnight tech and the ranch hands volunteered to stay with him. Reluctantly JT agreed and went back with his parents and sister to the house. The next morning he got up early, got dressed and went directly to the barn to find his dad already there. "Good morning buddy, Blue Boy is doing much better. We still need to keep an eye on him but Steven's catch probably saved his life." JT smiled in relief and hugged his horse who responded with a weak whinny. Steven walked up and JT hugged him tightly, "Thanks Cuz you are awesome." Steven just smiled holding the relieved boy tightly. "No problem JT, horses are part of the family too." Several others came to visit and Amy brought over breakfast for the three of them and coffee refills for Steven and Ty. She smiled, "Well he is looking better. JT the bus will be here in 30 minutes so head over before that." He smiled acknowledging her and went back to his boy, rubbing his neck. "I love you Blue Boy." Everyone smiled as they left him alone with his friend.

Wyatt and the girls at the University heard about Blue Boy and texted Maddie to tell JT they were thinking of him. As Jack would say often, 'they were all on the down side of the hill heading to the bottom of the school year.' He would joke, 'you can't go too fast but for sure don't go to slow'. For Annie and Addie it was making sure they stayed focused on their classes and close out strongly. Almost every night, like they used to do at home, and along with Jeremy, Desi, Maya and Bella they would study together and practice answering questions for test and exams. Annie had her first dissection as a part of her anatomy class and it was a little tough but she powered through it. Addie really supported her and told her, "Come on sis, you have watched dad and the other vets do surgeries, what's the big deal." She put her head down, "I know but it always made me queasy and when I saw the goat I thought of the goats we have at home. I am being silly." Jeremy pulled her in for a hug, "Honey, there is nothing to be ashamed of. I couldn't even come into the room probably." Bella laughed, "I don't know it's kind of gross to me but then again I am majoring in music." Addie smiled, "He's right sis, although taking apart that diesel engine like I did yesterday. Now that was awesome and the bonus, no blood, just engine oil." They all laughed as they continued. Lyndy walked down and laughed watching them. "Just like back at home, less a few kids." Wyatt followed, "Do you kids need any help from us cool seniors, you know we are both amazingly smart." Addie and Maya ran over to him tackling him and tickling his ribs. Annie and Bella soon joined as she yelled, "Lyndy, it's not too late to call off the wedding with this weirdo." Lyndy just laughed and went to sit with Jeremy and Desi as he shook his head, Desi shrugged, "Kids." They continued to study for a while until it was time to go to bed. Lyndy and Wyatt had early classes so they had been in their room for a while already. Desi was going to head back to his place because he had an early class as well. After good night hugs the others headed to their rooms. Addie snuggled into Desi for some quiet time together. She whispered, nuzzling into his neck "Do you really have to leave?" He sighed, "Addie, stop that, you are not being fair." His hand moved up to her cheek as they kissed deeply for a while. It moved a little more forward until he pulled back, I need to go." She frowned coyly reaching to pinch his backside, "And miss out on this." He sighed even more and pulled her in tightly, "I'm gonna have to take a raincheck because I have to get up in less than 6 hours. She walked him to the door and gave him one more pleading kiss as he walked to his car. She waved goodbye at him as he started to pull away. She ran over for one more kiss through the window of his car and he pulled out into the road. He was on top of the world as he headed onto the interstate for the 20 minute ride to his place. He loved his school, his friends and most of all he loved Addie Borden and had a life ahead of him that he was excited and anxious about. She was the most important thing in his life. As he entered the intersection after his light turned green he briefly caught a bright light on his left. His only recollection from that point were screeching brakes and a loud bang. After that everything went dark.

The Miracle Ranch home was quiet as everyone was sound asleep. All of a sudden, frantic knocks came to Amy and Ty's bedroom door. Ty got up and went to the door with Amy close behind putting her robe on. As he opened the door a breathless and panicked JT stood in front of them. He blurted out barely able to keep his breath, "Something has happened. I don't know what but it has. Grandma came to me out of nowhere and told me while I was sleeping." Maddie joined them as Amy went to comfort her little boy. Ty spoke up, "JT calm down, do you know what happened?" He tried to gather himself as he sobbed breathlessly holding on to his mom with Maddie's hand rubbing his back. Addie waited up for a few minutes for a text. Realizing that he didn't send one all the time she typed in a message to him, "I love you, see you tomorrow." At the accident scene, support people were working frantically to stabilize the area and get Desi out of the car. He was pinned but not too badly so within minutes they had him on the gurney moving toward the ambulance. The police retrieved his wallet and phone to get and ID and contact family. As the police officer grabbed the phone it buzzed with a message, "I love you, see you tomorrow." The initial triage showed the paramedics he had a severely broken ankle and possibly a broken wrist. He was covered with cuts and abrasions some more serious than others. His neck seemed stable but the force of the accident had jarred his head as they deduced by his position in the car. The other distraught driver admitted he was texting and ran right through the red light. Luckily he swerved a bit left and braked as it seemed that Desi had instinctively braked as well. It wasn't a direct broadside hit but just in front of the driver's door, almost ripping off the front of the car and putting him into a spin that crashed him into the traffic light pole, jerking the car the other way. This initial description of the accident is what had the paramedics worried about a traumatic brain injury, so they completely stabilized his neck and head on the board before leaving for the University Hospital. The police ran his license and got his parents contact information and made the call that they always dreaded. The phone rang a few times. A groggy woman said hello and the officer confirmed that she was the mother of the driver. She screamed and Desi's dad took the phone, "Is he Ok?" The officer filled him in on what happened giving just a little detail. She said calmly, "The paramedics have stabilized but his injuries are serious. But I can assure you he is calm now and the just left for the University Hospital as we saw he was a student. We will meet you there." She continued, "Also when I got his phone it buzzed with a text from a girl named Addie. I have not returned it but I wanted to let you know. He didn't get it while he was driving, it buzzed when I picked it up. The accident was not his fault. An inattentive driver ran a light and struck him. There are numerous witnesses. We will see you at the hospital." Desi's parents dressed quickly and headed out. His mother, who had gathered herself a bit, called his two older sisters to let them know what had happened. They said they were on their way as well and would meet them. One sister asked, "What about Addie?" Her mom said, "Let's see what is up first and then we can call her mom and dad. I think it is best for them to talk to her about it." They all agreed and headed on to the hospital.

The four of them family arrived at the hospital at the same time. As they walked in, a police officer approached them, "Are you Desi's family? I am the officer in charge and the doctor will be out shortly" They acknowledged her and she took them to the waiting room. Over the next 20 minutes, she described what had happened ensuring them that there was no fault for their son and brother. His father asked a question, "So is the person who hit him under arrest?" She looked at them, "Well he is being processed and admitted, very quickly that he was texting his girlfriend and didn't notice the red light." His anger grew as he listened and she continued, "He will be charged with several things, reckless driving, texting while driving and several others. They are all misdemeanors but can be felonies based on.." She stopped as Desi's sister whispered, "What happens to my brother." They all sat silently and then the officer pulled out a plastic bag. "Here are his personal items that I secured at the scene. As I said he has a text from a girl named Addie. I assume it is his girlfriend?" Desi's mom smiled and got upset at the same time. "Yes they have been together for a while and we expect for the long haul, they are very close." His dad whispered, "You know I was always a little upset about how much time he spent at the apartment, but tonight, I wish he would have stayed the night." They sat quietly and Desi's sister brought it up, "Mom, do you want me to call Addie, she needs to know." She thought for a moment, "No, I will call Amy, I think we need their help to tell their daughter." Everyone agreed as she stepped away. Amy was startled when her phone buzzed, immediately thinking something happened to one for the kids. She gathered herself and answered as Desi's mom spoke quietly. Ty sat up and held onto Amy's arm as his mom described what had happened and about the text. Amy was speechless but finally spoke up, "We are so sorry, how is he?" She mentioned that they had only talked to the police and were waiting for the doctor, but that Desi was in critical condition but stable for now." Amy spoke, "Well it is a little after 4am, so we will get ready and go tell her in an hour or two. We might as well give her a couple more hours because I am sure she is going to be devastated and want to come to see him immediately. That will also give you guys time to talk to the doctor. Can I have your daughter's phone number and I will text and see when we can bring her. Since it is Friday, I don't think she has any classes and will insist on seeing him asap." They finished the call with the plan and as Desi's mom walked back the doctor came out. He gathered them and took them into one of the smaller private conference rooms. As they settled he began to speak, "Well I am not one to sugar coat things but Desi is in serious condition and we have placed him in a coma. A coma is needed for several reasons, "First to help him with pain, second to allow the swelling and injuries to calm a bit and finally to allow us to look him over and determine the extent of his injuries. He has a broken ankle with multiple fractures. It seems it was pinned under the dash and twisted during the accident. It will need to be operated on but I believe we can repair it. He must have tried to brace with his left wrist but luckily it looks just like a severe sprain. The windows shattered and he has a bunch cuts, scrapes and bruises. Only a few needed just a couple of stiches and they all will heal quickly. The unknown concern is the head and neck. It seems he was jolted when he was first hit and again, in the opposite direction when he struck the street light pole. Right now he seems stable, but the jerking motion could have damaged his neck and maybe his spine. We just don't know now as in a coma it is difficult to determine movement limitations. By the end of the day we hope to slowly bring him back and by then we will be able to determine if there are any concerns and to what extent he is injured. Everything else is going to heal fine as he is young and in very good shape. The head neck and spine issues will still need to be determined." They sat in shock at the extent of his injures when finally his one sister whispered, "Will he be paralyzed?" The doctor leaned in and took his mom and sisters hands. "We don't know but he is strong and that will be a big factor in the extent of his injuries. We just need to be patient and wait for him to wake up. Right now he is resting comfortably so when you are ready you can see him." The all hugged each other and then followed the doctor to the ICU. They met the charge nurse and another nurse who was overseeing his care. The charge nurse smiled, "We have already seen his strength, he is a fighter." They smiled and walked into a scene that no one would never want to see.

After talking to Maddie and filling her in on what was happening, Amy and Ty were heading to the campus apartment. She texted Lyndy and Annie and told them to call her and not let Addie know. They were together when they called and Amy filled them in on Desi and that they would need their help. Lyndy and Annie were devastated but were strong and promised to be there for their sister. Annie was especially upset and as they hung up she fell into Lyndy's arms sobbing, "I hope he is Ok. I can't imagine if it was Jeremy in that hospital." Lyndy held her remembering her concerns when Wyatt got hurt and pulled back looking into her eyes, "Sis, we need to be strong, trust me this is going to be difficult for her and for that matter all of us. Let's go back and tell the guys and keep an eye out for mom and dad." Wyatt and Jeremy were devasted as well not only for Addie, but for the friend they had becomes so close with and his family. They huddled until they heard the SUV pulled up. The four of them quietly went out to meet them as they hugged and cried. Wyatt and Jeremy went to the kitchen to make some coffee as the four Borden's headed to Addie and Desi's room. Amy slowly opened the door to see her beautiful daughter sound asleep not knowing what was about to happen. Annie and Lyndy stood behind her as she sat on the side of the bed gently rousing her daughter, "Addie, wake up, it's mom and dad." Her eyes fluttered open and immediately knowing something was wrong. Annie's thoughts betrayed her as Addie felt what she was thinking. She sat up with her eye's wide open, "Oh my god, it's Desi. Something happen to him." She began crying into her mom's embrace. Lyndy and Annie went to join the hug and Ty put his hands on her shoulders rubbing them gently. They sat in silent sobs for a few minutes when Addie took a deep breath and in shock whispered, "Can you tell me what happened and when I can see him." Amy and Ty went over what had happened and also his current condition. Ty spoke clearly, "Honey he is in critical condition, but his leg, wrist and other cuts and bruises will heal. Their concern is his head, neck and spine. It's too early to tell but the concern is that the blunt trauma and twisting motion of the accident could have caused some injuries that they can't determine until the swelling goes down." He took a moment and continued, "He is in a coma but actually that is a good thing so his body can start healing and he won't feel any pain. I just need you to understand what you are going to walk into when you see him." She smiled meekly and then her eyes went wide open. "Daddy, will he be paralyzed?" Everyone gasped as he grabbed her into a hug. "They don't know, but when he stabilizes and wakes up, we will know more." She buried her head into his chest as Amy, Lyndy and Annie joined in. Wyatt gently knocked on the door with Jermey by his side. "Hey, we made some coffee and have some things to eat. Noting fancy but I figure you may be hungry." Jermey added, "Hey Adds how are you?" She got up and hugged them both. They all headed into the kitchen and enjoyed the assorted breakfast food they had in a kids college apartment. Ty laughed, "Maybe I should run to the 24-hour MacDonalds and get some real food?" Wyatt and Jeremy laughed too, "We'll go with you." The four Borden women sat together drinking some coffee quietly. Amy spoke up, "Addie, I am going to go call Desi's sister and see what is up. I'll also see when you can go see him." The three sisters talked as Lyndy's phone rang, "It's Mads." She put the phone on speaker and she told Addie how sorry she was. The four sisters talked and as Amy walked back in her heart melted seeing the three of them on the phone with Maddie. Before she walked in she listened at how they were supporting Addie and how much love they had for each other. She walked in as they all went to hug and Maddie joined them over the phone. Amy told them that she talked with Desi's mom and that we should come mid-morning. He was still stable but had a number of test so he would not be in his room. She smiled, "Addie, she said he is doing as good as he can and she is certain that when you show up he will know. His sisters are heading home after breakfast so just his mom and dad will be there. Ty and the guys showed up with some McDonald's breakfast stuff and they sat at the kitchen table. Maya came down completely unaware of what was happening and was startled when she saw Amy and Ty there. So as Jeremy got Bella, Wyatt took them to the living room and filled them in. They came in and hugged Addie tightly as Ty spoke up, "Thank goodness we got extra food. Let's eat up as I know you all have class and in a bit Amy, Addie and I are heading to the hospital." Amy added, "We need to keep the visitors down for today but I am sure you will all be able to visit this weekend." They understood and continued to eat their breakfast as they all had thoughts of their friend in the ICU at the University Hospital.

Desi's family held vigil as a flurry of activity was going on in Desi's ICU room. After a little while, his sisters went home to get their kids off to school and promised to come back after lunch. They gently kissed their brother's forehead as the held each other hands. Desi's dad called Amy and to confirm the best time to come so they had time to run home and check up on Maddie and JT. Addie came with them to see her brother and sister and to get some things to take with her. She had already planned to stay the weekend, even if it meant sleeping in the waiting room. Ty spoke to some of his contacts at the hospital and let them know about their connection to Desi and his parents noticed the increased attention he was getting and later would find out why. After a flurry of test, he was settled back into his room as his mom held his uninjured hand and spoke to him, encouraging him to fight. She also leaned in and told him, "Sweetie, Addie will be here soon so you need to wake up so she can see you." The nurse noticed a little elevation in his vitals and smiled, "I guess Addie is the girlfriend. I could tell since his vital signs spiked a little. I am confident he is hearing you in some way, so keep taking to him. It is the best medicine." A little after 10, their phone bussed letting them know that Amy, Ty and Addie were there. Desi's dad went out to meet them and said the three of them could come in only for a second. He hugged Addie, "But I think he wants you to stay so I will move out with Amy and Ty and you can stay with his mom. Earlier she mentioned your name and the nurse noted that his vitals moved a little. He knows you are coming." She smiled as her eyes watered. They walked in slowly as Addie tightly clutched her mom's arm. Amy felt her quaver as they came in and saw him. His leg and wrist were casted and they saw several cuts and bruises. But the most difficult thing they saw was how they had stabilized his head and neck and that he was on a ventilator. The charge nurse grabbed her hand and calmed her, "You must be Addie. Honey he is doing well and the ventilator is just because we put him into a coma. He is able to breathe on his own but it is necessary for now. All of the injuries are repaired and will heal completely. And we need to keep his head and neck stable until we can tell the extent of or if there are any injuries." Addie smiled weakly as his mom pulled her into an embrace. "It's Ok Addie, he is going to be fine, I know it." She smiled at Amy and Ty as they headed out with her husband. She continued, "He can hear us so just talk to him. You know he loves you and I know he wants to marry you one day. He talks about it with his sisters all the time. But now he just needs us to be here and encourage him to fight hard. He has quite the battle ahead of him." After a short while Amy and Ty came back in to say goodbye to their daughter, so after hugs they headed home. After Ty gave her some money they walked out with Desi's parents to chat in the hall. Amy hugged his mom and made sure she knew that if they needed anything to let them know. "Lyndy and Annie are going to stop by later to give Addie a rest and get her to eat something. We will get with Addie for check ins throughout the day. Desi is loved by a lot of people and he will be in our thoughts." Desi's mom smiled and hugged Amy one more time as they said their goodbyes. They went back into the room and found Addie laying her head on his side with her eyes closed still holding his hand tightly. They decided to go get some air and try to eat something since he seemed to be in good hands. For the next few hours the activity lessoned and the doctors began weaning him off the drug that kept him in the coma hoping he would wake up. This gave Addie time to talk to him as she spoke softly, "Desi, I love you. You need to fight and get better. I know you are scared but I also know you are strong. We have so much to live for and I can't do it without you. Please wake up." She quietly sobbed. After a few minutes she felt his finger twitch. At first she thought she dreamed it but then a second finger moved. She encouraged him to wake up and after a few minutes he grabbed her hand tightly. She looked up as he opened his eyes. They were happy but scared at the same time. She leaned up to look into his eyes and pressed the nurse's button as she whispered, "Hey."

Once the medical staff came in there was a lot of activity. Addie went to get his parents and was happy to tell them that he had woken up. Once they returned after a half hour they were able to see him again. He was a little more elevated, the vent was gone and he was resting with his eyes closed. Before they entered though, the doctor and charge nurse filled them in. He spoke calmly, "Well we are very pleased that he is awake and relatively alert so soon. He is groggy since we have him on pain meds to ease the pain of the leg and wrist. We have talked and he is coherent and just a little loopy, which is expected. Addie he said he heard you encouraging him and that is what helped him wake up." The three of them smiled as Addie blushed a little. "But we still don't know if there are any issues with the neck and spine. He still has limited response to stimulation but that is expected so don't be alarmed. We have a series of more precise X-rays and an MRI planned shortly to try and see how it looks. The original set didn't show anything but these will give us a better look. For now he is comfortable and off the vent which is very good. Now it will be busy but you guys can visit but understand he may leave several times." They smiled, not really able to talk as the relief and concern showed in their faces." We should know more later this afternoon but we have to be patient. Whatever the outcome, he will need a while to recover and we just need to be patient." As they walked in, Addie let his mom and dad got first to see him. There were laughs and some tears but Desi seemed in a good mood. His dad asked him what he remembered and all he could recall for now was a bright light on his left. He asked, "What happened dad?" His dad calmly responded, "The driver that hit you was distracted with his phone and ran the red light. Luckily he braked a little and turned to his left hitting you right in from of the driver's door. It seemed that somehow you also had started to brake but he hit you hard and spun the car in to the traffic light pole almost knocking it down. The police said that you had just begun accelerating from a red light that turned green as several surveillance cameras caught the accident." Desi pondered his explanation, "Well I guess it could have been worse if he hit me directly on my door." His mom sighed, "Well we are sure happy and I bet Addie is too." Addie stepped over and grabbed his hand that was reaching out to her, "I am so happy you are awake, I'm sorry but I was so scared." She got quiet as he looked over to his parents and his girlfriend. "No matter what I will get better because I have all of you that love me. Addie and his mom teared up as his dad, also a little misty eyed, smiled and patted his shoulder. "Well son, we do along with your sisters, friends and a whole lot of others." On cue, the nurse came in and spoke up. "There are two young ladies outside that want to visit and one looks just like your girlfriend here. A couple of fine looking young men are with them too. I told them for now just he two girls can come in, is that Ok?" Desi smiled and said yes ad Lyndy and Annie shuffled into the room. Annie smiled, "Hey Des, how are you doing. We are so happy to see you are awake." He smiled and thanked her and grabbed their hands. "Addie, I think they are here to get you some fresh air, so go on. I need to talk to my mom and dad for a bit. She smiled and kissed his lips gently, "I won't be gone long." They girls went to stretch their legs and get some food. As the fived of them walked, Lyndy and Annie were on either side of their sister holding her hand as the boys followed. Addie didn't realize how hungry she was so Wyatt and Jermy got some food as they sat down and talked. Annie smiled, "Well he seems in good spirits and the doctor seems optimistic." Lyndy added, "We know you are worried but I am sure everything will be Ok. We are all here for you both and Desi is strong and will get better. And I think his nurse Addie will be a big help too." They giggled as the boys returned and laid out the food. Jeremy asked, "What are you three giggling about?" Addie smirked, "Nothing just girl talk." They ate for a while and finished their food and topped off their coffee. They walked back and the visitors said goodbye as Addie was staying. As she walked out, Lyndy added, "Hey I think Bella and Maya are coming by tomorrow morning and don't be surprised if Maddie, Ricky and JT show up soon. He says he has to see his buddy and makes sure the doctors are taking care of you." They all smiled as his mom spoke up, "Yep, mom already sent me a text about it, they will be here in an hour, if Desi is up to it." Desi smiled, "Of course, but I think I may take a nap, Addie can you stay. And mom and dad, thank you." They both smiled as Addie looked on wondering what he meant. A little bit after dinner, JT, Ricky and Maddie left as well as his parents. Desi was tired and with Addie next to him he fell asleep quickly and slept well despite being woken up several times and being anxious to hear the news about his neck and upper spine from the medical team.

It was Monday morning back at the ranch and everyone was getting ready for their day. Breakfast time was talking about Desi and their week ahead. Lyndy mentioned, "They hear from the doctors today right?" Ty smiled, "Yep and I know they are very anxious. But the good thing is that he has shown some signs of movement so hopefully that is a good thing. He sure is a strong kid." Annie laughed, "Dad, he is not a kid and do you know he insisted that Addie go to school today but as you can imagine, she won that battle." They all laughed but knew that the outcome of the conversation today would be on all of their minds. As they headed out they made sure that once the news was available, Amy would let them all know. The meeting was attended by Desi's parents and his sisters. Addie was also there at the request of Desi, even though she was not family. The doctor detailed the results using a diagram of the spinal cord and the plan, "Well for the most part you are lucky man. We still don't know the total impact of your injury, but you have a contusion that is impacting the C1 and C2 vertebrae. These vertebrae, are at the base of the skull and basically controls head and neck movement. The contusion is on the anterior and posterior longitudinal ligaments. The are in place to stabilize the neck and head as well. Right now the plan is to keep your head stabilized and let the contusion heal. An optimal result is that is heals and over time you retain full movement." He smiled as they sensed a 'but'. "But, the issue is you will need to fitted with a halo, basically a wire cage that will be placed to completely stabilize your head. It will not be comfortable but we will help your discomfort and we hope to only need it for a month." The family was relieved but concerned at the same time until Desi asked, "Can I go home?" He smiled, "Well in a few days, if everything looks good you can, but there is a caveat. I know you stay at the campus apartment you all share but we would prefer that you stay at your home. Your movement will be limited although you will have in home therapeutic care that you will receive." They were silent for a minute until Addie spoke up, "Babe, it makes sense and you can set up to do your school work remotely. I already talked to your advisor and you can finish the year that way. He said you are at the top of you class and there would be no issues at all." Desi, looked at his mom and before he could ask she smiled, "Well that makes sense, we can set up his room with whatever he needs and between this group we will be with him 24/7." The she said something that surprises the young couple. "Since Desi will need a hospital bed, Addie you are more than welcome to stay when you want to and use his bed." She smirked, "If that is alright with you." Addie blushed as his father patted her shoulder, "Addie you are family too." The doctor left and scheduled the procedure to put the halo on and said if all goes well he could head home a few days after that. Desi's sisters headed home and at Desi's encouragement Addie went back to the apartment to catch her last two classes of the day. On the way to school she filled her mom, Lyndy and Annie in on the plan and they shared it with others. They still weren't out of the woods but definitely felt good about the steps that were being taken. For the reminder of the week things got settled and Desi came home to his newly appointed room. He smiled at all of the flowers and cards waiting for him. As he settled, Addie read all the cards and let him know who sent the flowers. He was happy and tired at the same time but having Addie with him meant everything to him. He loved her and the Bordens before this but realized now that now he loved Addie Borden forever.

The next few weeks went well, not only for Desi but the entire Borden family. Addie was able to keep up on her school work and even working at home, Desi easily kept up with his studies and would have no problem finishing the year out strong. At first having the halo was a struggle but with therapy and a lot of help from famliy, Addie, the Bordens and friends, he was moving along nicely. Lyndy, Annie, and the others were there to visit as well as help where needed. Even JT made a few appearances to cheer him up, especially when had had a bad day. Wyatt and the Borden kids were finishing strongly and keeping up on their studies, work and of course Annie's training. The Special Kids Rodeo was coming along nicely and it looked as though they were going to have record participation along with a lot of national exposure thru local government and the media. Lou and Maddie met with the local political leaders and put a plan together to make sure the event helped increase the awareness for kids who needed their help. Amy and Ty decided to move the Rehoming Center Documentary back a few weeks since there was a lot of focus on Desi and his recovery. The preliminary team was arriving mid-week to look things over and set up a plan for the filming. The event would be covered over 4 days so they could give the right amount of focus on the mission and expected outcomes of the center's horses and prospective owners. Ellory and the team were really excited and looking forward to the event and also the fact that an end result could be satellite centers throughout Canada. Annie was ready for the final Olympic qualifier but it was just a formality as her membership on the team was already committed to. She continued her prep work and training under the keen eyes of Georgie, Katie and her mom. Lyndy and Wyatt were focused on completing their college education with the best results they could achieve. Lyndy continued to excel at school but was engaging more and more with her mom and cousins in the horse healing side of the Equine Center's business. Wyatt continued to use the valuable experience of working with the vet team and using that knowledge to enhance his abilities as a soon to be licensed vet. And both were excited to graduate and had been secretly talking about a wedding date, which looked more like around the holidays. JT was continuing his educational prowess and focusing on his friend Trent as he continued to face challenges. And with Shawna, the two of them were getting closer and closer and were seen together a lot especially on the Gator that he rode around the farm on. Amy and Ty were enjoying each other and their continued growth in the roles they had as parents and owners of a prospering company. They both were overwhelmed at times with their success both professionally and personally. But the most joy that had focused on their kids and soon to be official son-in-law. Watching them excel and be there for each other was the most rewarding thing in their lives. The way they all were there for their sister's boyfriend was amazing to them especially how they supported Addie during the difficult few weeks after the accident. The end of the year was close and everyone was fully commitment to end it well. So many things were happening at the end of the school year and during the summer. Graduation, the Kids Rodeo, the documentary, the Olympics and so much more. Secretly Amy and Ty were anxious to hear a date for Lyndy and Wyatt's wedding but decided not to bother them, unlike how Lou did with them. They laid in bed one night after making love and talked softly to each other nurturing the love they had for each other. Amy smiled, "Ty, we are the luckiest people in the world and I can't wait what the future brings." He smiled and kissed her forehead as they both fell asleep peacefully in each other's arms.