A/N – Thanks for all the reviews and good thoughts, they're always appreciated. For those that reread, the Pegasus Christmas story has been taken down to be redone. This is pretty long for this story, hope the formatting holds.

Chapter 66

Thursday morning at 10 Ty and Amy rode up to Tom Carmichael's office near the Tompkins County Courthouse in Ithaca and parked their bikes, Ty on the Norton and Amy on her Scout. Tom met them at the door and welcomed them in with hugs.

"So, we're here to talk about marriage, children and anything else ?"

"Those should be fine to start with Tom, what's the deal, what happens how and when ?" Amy asked.

"Ok, let's first dispel what most people think, marrying Amy will make you the kids step-dad, you get the title and a moral responsibility, what you don't get is any legal authority to make decisions in their behalf, legally, in school or medically. You can apply for and be granted legal guardianship or adopt but short of either that's the hard truth. Betty is their next living blood relative, after Amy the courts would deal with her or appoint a guardian ad litem."

"Really, I would have thought." Ty began.

"It can't work that way Ty, there is most often a second parent involved, legally they would give up parental rights before a step could adopt. Legal guardianship is different and can be granted under some circumstances if there's a second parent but none of that applies here and it's like this in most places not just New York."

"Ok so what does each entail ? Is it just like when I adopted the kids ?" Amy asked.

"Well I already know about how JT and the girls feel about you Ty so are we assuming JT is a definite and the girls are thinking ?" Tom asked. This was the somewhat odd part of these relationships. Between Bobby, Sally and Cars, Tom knew everything. The same with Charlie or Trev. It was fine, like dealing with family but since they weren't technically family, slightly strange.

"I don't think I'm going out on a limb to say I'll be adopting all three. Right now, JT for sure and the girls are thinking. I get Betty too."

"I don't like that they can be away with you and you not having legal authority Ty and I certainly don't want you or them restricted from spending alone time or traveling together."

"We can apply for and get Ty legal guardianship over the kids now, but uh, well, I have to say this, it's still binding if you two break up. Legal guardianship would also give Ty some access to the trusts, I assume that's not an issue. Betty still rules the roost on the money but as legal guardian he would certainly have access to funds needed for care and the like."

"The difference between a legal guardian and an adoption ?" Ty asked.

"Legal guardianship can be revoked or dissolved, adoption is forever except for extreme remedy. Adoptive parents are still parents after divorce or death."

"I would want to talk to Betty and the kids but assume the legal guardianship will happen for now, what does that entail ?"

"Paperwork and a judge Ty." Tom answered "with Amy, Betty and the kids giving knowing consent it won't be a problem. The biggest issue is summer staff, I can talk to a family judge and get it bumped to happen faster."

"Ames ?"

"I don't see how anyone can dispute that you need to be able to handle an emergency especially with our lot and I'm very uncomfortable thinking about that scenario."

"I'll get the paperwork drawn up, just let me know and I'll come by for signatures. Ty, you're heading up to the Adirondack house with John Sunday, how are we playing this ?"

"I'm heading up to look around and see that the video isn't one of those shot for best effect leaving out the nasties. None of us feel that's the case but we need to start somewhere. I assume at least the family needs to see it before we tender the initial offer so let's say within the month ?"

"Ok, and we're sticking with the plan, if it pans out and the appraisal sticks we're starting at the full escrow account, five million offer in cash."

"If Betty's good with that, Amy and I are as well."

"Anything else ?" Tom asked.

Amy and Ty looked at each other and shrugged. "Nope. Thanks Tom, I guess we'll see you Saturday ?"

"I'll be there, wouldn't miss it."

They had time before having to be at the Foundation offices and Amy pulled up next to Ty and urged him to follow. He slowed when she rode though the faculty parking lot gate at the Vet School but rode on and pulled up next to the Scout.

"What's this ?" Ty asked "should I wait ?"

Amy walked over and pulled off her helmet so he did as well. "They usually send my stuff to Bridget but I wanted to check in and pick up my schedule. You should come Ty."

"You think ?"

Amy placed her palm on his face and leaned in to kiss him. "The first time I came here I was walked in by Bert and Lorin on either side of me, I had no degree, no title and I had no idea how I could have been talked into doing this. I was about to face Ivy League students at the most prestigious vet school in the country with a high school diploma I earned by the skin of my teeth. There were professors who actively spoke against my coming that would be my colleagues. I shook like a leaf. Ty, you are the Assistant Medical Director of Pegasus and protégé of Bertram Koenig. You've been a vet for ten years and are an excellent surgeon. You are uniquely qualified to guide students looking to go out into the world and make a difference and Cornell is lucky to have you. Come on, I'll show you around."

Amy took Ty's hand and his fingers now intertwined with hers walked though the automatic door. "Anything I should know ?"

"To anyone other than another teacher you are Dr. Borden." She said walking into what was obviously the administrative offices.

"Good morning Professor Fleming. Only a few things we haven't sent over and I have your schedule and TA assignment, Georgina Fleming Morris ?"

"My niece actually, I know she's a First Year but she's lived my life and knows her stuff."

"And she's Dr. Borden's surgical assistant. I assume this is Dr. Borden ?"

"Linda Chen, Faculty Admin, this is Ty Borden. Ty, Linda is who you come to for anything Cornell related."

"It's good to meet you Linda." Ty said with his signature smile and holding out his hand to shake.

"Like wise Dr. Borden." She said then looked at Amy "and he won't be a disruption on campus at all."

"I don't expect him to be." Amy said with a blushing smile.

"This packet is for you Professor, and yours Dr. Borden, both your mail's been forwarded to the Foundation. You can also take this, your lanyard. You'll need to stop next door for the cards and picture but they're out now. They should open in 15 minutes so maybe before you leave."

"Thanks Linda, anything else ?"

"I'm sure Professor Fleming and Dr. Koenig will fill you in. He's in his office by the way."

"Thanks Linda, we'll drop in."

Amy took hold of Ty's arm and led him out of the office and down the hall. They took the elevator up two flights and walked down a long hallway past several sets of double doors. Noticing that he was trying to read the doors she stopped at one set. "Lecture halls Ty" she said and tried the door.

"Locked." He said.

"Professor" Amy said smiling and reached over to flash her card against the pad on the side of the door.

Ty walked in followed by Amy who reached over and flicked up several switches "Holy shit, you lecture in something this size, it must seat 1000 and those screens, it's like a rock concert stage."

"My lecture halls are smaller, I teach electives, this is where Bert lectures."

"Are you serious ?"

"There's a VIP guest gallery." Amy said pointing to the side. "You might consider showing up at some of his just to get the flow."

"I'll do that and you'll be here for my first please ?"

"Of course Ty but I may cry."

"Oh stop" he said pulling her over to him and into a kiss. When they came apart she smiled "We can do this right ?" He asked, "fraternize ?"

"We have offices, we could fraternize now." She whispered and nipped at his neck.

"You're going to get me in trouble here aren't you ?"

"I would never do that my love, this is Cornell, we have locks on the doors."

Amy slowed when she reached the office suites and stopped outside one. Ty stopped at the door and stared. The door had two black plaques both with gold lettering. The top one read:

Dr. Bertram Koenig, DVM

Chairman Equine Orthopedics, Surgery And Rehabilitation.

The plaque beneath Bert's was the one that Ty reached out to touch absentmindedly.

Dr. Tyler Borden, DVM

Assistant Professor Equine Orthopedics, Surgery and Rehabilitation

& Exotic Animal Care.

Amy took out her phone and snapped a picture then turned to him. "Ty ?"

"I'm actually a Professor at Cornell Vet School."

"Join the club, I'm so proud of you Ty" she said smiling and opening the door. There was a waiting room with a coat rack and umbrella stand, a leather couch and 4 chairs around a coffee table with various surgical and veterinary magazines in stacks. The table was oak and old as were the richly paneled walls. Ty noticeably inhaled sensing the room had a faint citrus smell that leaned towards orange.

"They do the woods every few months, it's orange oil mixed with other stuff. Amy knocked at the door marked Dr. Bert Koenig "you dressed ?" She called in.

Bert opened the door a second later and smiled seeing them both "Amy, you found your way to school, is there cake ?"

"Not unless you've got one hidden, I brought Ty to school so he won't be scared when he comes alone."

Bert laughed, "Meg decorated your office Ty, it's a thing with her. Here are your keys to the desk, file cabinets and the inner and outer door. Your tag opens all the rest."

Ty walked to the second door in the suite. He looked at the name plaque Dr. Ty Borden and used the obvious door key to open it. He stood looking around and smiled. The antique oak desk had pictures of the family and several of him and Jackson fishing, his name plaque, a nice desk set and a fresh green blotter. There was a large and plush leather chair behind the desk and two chairs on the outside of the desk. A comfy leather couch with a coffee table, oak bookcases and filing cabinets. On the walls three of Jane's wild horse paintings and a large photograph of Amy and the kids. Off to the side his degrees from UC, several articles from newspapers and magazines highlighting his trips abroad and a recent photo of him and Amy on their bikes ready to head out somewhere that was shot from the Pegasus porch. Right over his desk was a framed drawing he had not seen before. It was Ty leaning over a horse listening through his stethoscope. It was certainly amateurish and the work of a child though somewhat gifted and it was signed April P.

"Apparently she did that the day we shipped out all the rescues. Meg saw it at the Potter's and asked April." Bert told him. "like it ?"

"It's perfect" Ty said somewhat choked up.

"Nice couch" Amy said smiling and sat down. She ran her hand slowly over the couch "I like old leather."

"You have an office of your own Amy. Kindly like the leather there, there are just some things I don't want to hear." Bert said.

"Don't worry Bert" Ty said laughing "where is your office anyway ?"

"Stables of course." Amy said "I insisted. Way too stuffy in here with all the straights."

Amy's phone buzzed with a text "Ty do you want to join Trev and Charlie for lunch at the office ?"

"Sounds fine to me, can we stop in the Commons after ?"

"Don't see why not as long as we're back for late rounds. Let me just text Bridget about lunch."

"I have some stuff for you Ty, let's sit a few minutes." Bert said and led them into his office. Bert's office was much larger than Ty's as it had a conference table, several monitors and computer stations which were surrounded by wall to wall texts.

"Your key opens my door as well Ty, Ty ?" Bert repeated walking over to where Ty was looking at a large photo on the wall behind the conference table. "Like it ?"

"Bert, where ?"

"Do you remember the day ?"

"Bangarang, but how ?"

"Sandy was coming over to see if we needed anything and took it."

The photo showed Ty and Bert both sitting on a bench behind the Pegasus Medical Barn. They were wearing dirty scrubs and had towels over their necks. Ty was leaning forward elbows on his knees with his unruly hair falling forward. He held his surgical cap in his hands. Bert was back against the wall, eyes closed facing the setting sun. In his left hand he held his surgical cap and his right was on Ty's shoulder, a very fatherly gesture.

Amy walked over and looked at it. "Well, if that doesn't tell this story I don't know what would, it's wonderful Bert."

"I thought so, too bloody for a brochure but that was a good day. We didn't lose one. Come on, I read over the paper, it's good Ty, I've made some notes where I think we could make some changes in the flow and some missing details that I should assume the readers will know instinctively at some level but not say as a first year. They would be fine in a third year text but not as a stand alone. Read through them and either make changes or talk to me about them. When we're done we'll hand it off to Vi and the seconds. It's a good paper, I think it might get some surgeons to seriously consider a double like this. Far less stress to the horse."

"Thanks Bert, Boxer ?"

"I think Wednesday, you're leaving Friday, you'll see him awake and you'll have some stress free time with the family before you go."

"Ok, Monday afternoon first run through and consults ?"

"Sounds good. Amy, course outlines, the book ?"

"You're not my department chair Bert."

"Acky's scared of you, you know that."

"Acky ?" Ty asked.

"Preston Aklesbury, General Large Animal Veterinary Care and Nutrition. Acky between colleagues and behind his back for the students." Amy explained. "All done and handed in and the final draft of the body has been submitted."

"The non body work ?"

"You're doing the Forward for Volume Two, get to work. I'll send a note to Lisa about Volume One."

"You're asking Lisa ?"

"She was my first client Ty, she's always been there for me, even when she was off with Grandpa she looked out for me. This book is about those times."

"I get it, she's always been there for all of us."

"Let's get back to me for a second." Bert said.

"Don't even say it, I forgot the ego. Bert, dear sweet Bert, the second volume is most important for the cooperation between us, the science and the holistic, who better to write that than you. Please Bert, I need you." Amy said getting on her knee and taking his hand "is there a ring ?"

"Oh get up, I'd be honored." Bert said laughing.

Bert declined to join them for lunch and after stopping in the Human Resources department for Ty's faculty card and his magic lanyard card, they rode over to the offices where they were welcomed as always by Bridget. "Chinese food on the way, Bert and Charlie are in the conference and I have some transfers that have to be signed after lunch."

"Ty do you want me at the meeting ?

"Not if you have things to do Ames, I'll be fine I think."

"I'll be out after lunch Bridge." She handed over her envelope from the vet school, and continued "Cornell schedule just copy it and I'll take it with me. Ty you might as well give Bridge yours as well, she'll make sure our schedules reflect classes, office hours, all that fun stuff." Amy grabbed her mail and walked back to her office to dump her helmet, jacket and bag. Ty followed behind and did the same.

"You want an office Ty ?"

"No Ames, I can use a coat rack."

"Ha Ha, I'll have your name put on mine, we can share."

"You know, you're a really nice person Amy Fleming."

"I lied Ty, under exaggerated, you'll find out soon, I was scared."

"About what ?"

"Money."

"Betty's fronting a 5 million dollar house Ames, in cash, I figured there was more lurking."

"Still, I didn't want to freak you out."

"Freak out because we have more money than I thought ?"

"Freak out because, you know, forget it." She said heading over to the conference room and opening the door. "I love you Ok ?"

"Wow, you must have really under exaggerated."

"Here they are, Amy you saw Bridget ?"

"I did Charlie, I'll take care of the transfers after lunch."

"Thank you, Ty will get signing authority over family stuff today, the others require votes set out by the by-laws, corporate, foundation and trusts."

"I'm good Charlie." Ty discussed the business end of the Alberta trip over lunch, Bridget joined them at one point and the conversation didn't stop or hinder at all, it was pretty obvious that Bridget knew everything.

"I like Ashley Stanton, she knows her ranch management and trusts, she's got a good intuitive mind."

"Her family has a substantial presence in the high end boarding and training segment in our area, Ashley handles all that for them and several other larger facilities in BC and Alberta." Amy said "besides, Ty and I trust her Trev."

"Well, that's important, I met her last time she visited, the time before the date, I like her." Bridge added.

After lunch they cleaned off the table and Amy and Bridget left to get their work done. The first order of business for Charlie was Ty's request for the planetarium.

"I have dates, there aren't many where they'll give us the whole place between now and November. You're best bet I think is October 30, they do a big thing for Halloween and close down the day before. They are willing to hold off at a price."

"That's a Sunday, Ok, let's do that." Ty said looking at his phone.

"You get 4 hours, 4 – 8."

"And the Sky part ?"

"They checked, they have it, just as described, they can even do the sensor."

"I'll let Bridget know to contact them."

"How many seats Charlie ?"

"About a 150 I think, you're going to need Betty."

"I'll talk to her, what do you think of the plan ?"

"Romantic for sure, kind of odd proposing once the wedding's already being planned but I get your position at this point."

"Thanks Trev."

"Is it just going to be you 6 ?"

"Well, if we add in on this end we can't leave out the Albertans."

"So 40 or so which is doable with a dinner after especially on a Sunday. Wouldn't even be a necessarily late night for normal folk." Charlie said.

"That's going to take a lot of people keeping a secret."

"Maybe not, most can think it's a surprise party for something else."

"Like ?"

"We'll figure something out Ty" Charlie assured him "we'll have the sky show reserved and wing it from there. Let's do the money."

"Amy said 20 – 30 million but it's a moving target, I assume it moves higher by ?"

"Taken as a whole, family and ownerships for lack of a better word figure 40 million." Charlie said looking down.

"60 million ?"

"60 million moving, not cash on hand you understand but you have substantial holdings in real estate, livestock, future livestock, stocks, bonds, mutual funds and that includes the kids and Betty, about 20 million so, you and Amy about 40."

"The kids huh, I guess Jackson can afford a bathroom and I assume Chuck a barn ?"

"Chuck can afford all the barns in Tompkins County probably and JT way more than a bathroom Ty, they came with a 1 million dollar life insurance policy. The house and 20 acres around it which includes the main facilities belongs to Betty and the kids, Amy insisted." Trev added.

"Amy mentioned the house, so she mentioned something like 15 million in profit yearly ?"

"Well here are this year's projections and what we hope to do with it." Charlie started and pulled up a graph on his laptop screen.

Amy returned about an hour later. Ty was signing some documents and she leaned over. "Still standing ?"

Ty turned and smiled then leaned up a bit to kiss her.

"Still love me Ty ?"

"My love in undiminished, by the way who's marrying us ?"

"I have no idea, why ?"

"Just popped into my head, I don't know why."

"Well in NY you do need an officiant approved by the state, it's very loose." Trev said.

"Well I'm not inclined to a minister." Amy said.

"No, really ?" Charlie said laughing.

"Well, I wasn't raised that way and with Maddie I'm just soured on the whole thing."

"You could get a judge or someone can head onto the internet." Trev suggested.

"Or we could ask a spiritual person in your life Ames, Victor."

"Victor." Amy said softly to herself "Victor would be perfect Ty."

"He's healthy ?"

"As of a few months ago when we last spoke. I'll call him."

"Victor ?"

"I told you about him Charlie, Victor Whitetail, First Nation Horse Trainer, somewhat a mentor to both me and mom, someone I go to when I need centering, my mom had a thing with him."

"That's right, medicine ring, sounds perfect for you."

"Where are you two off to ?" Trev asked.

Ty sighed and then laughed "I feel like spending some money."

"Atta boy" Charlie said clapping him on the back lightly.

"Trev, the weekend before Bert leaves on his cruise with Meg, which is the weekend after the birthdays, there is a Latin jazz festival in New Orleans, care to join us ?"

"I'll check with Steph, sounds like a blast."

"A whole weekend of dancing, I hope I can survive." Amy said with the biggest grin.

"We'll take breaks to eat and sleep, I promise." He answered "Come on, vinyl awaits us."

They rode over to Autumn Leaves Book Store on the commons and made that their first stop. Aside from their record and cd section they were above Angry Mom's, another record/cd store. They went through the aisles arm in arm and only came apart to look through a stack. When they had gone though once Amy suggested a cup of coffee.

"Sure Ames, tired ?"

"I want to talk Ty."

They paid for their albums and wandered over to the café. Coffees in hand they sat near one of the windows. "This isn't about the money is it ?"

"I lied to you Ty after promising to answer truthfully."

"You really didn't you know, you said, something like start at 20 and move up, 20 – 30 is probably a good guess. You mentioned Pegasus and real estate and the kids. Let's not do this, it's silly."

"Still I should have been completely up front."

"I love you Amy and as far as I'm concerned the numbers you gave weren't so far off."

Amy smiled and looked up and Ty turned to find Maddie and Brin coming to the table.

"Brin needed a break so Gran called me an Uber over to the music school and we walked over."

"We saw the bikes and figured you were here." Sabrina added leaning over to hug Ty and kiss his cheek. Maddie kissed Amy and then came over to kiss Ty.

"Good to see you Sabrina, are you ready for Saturday ?" He asked.

"I guess as ready as I'll be."

"She's ready, she sounds amazing." Maddie said taking her hand.

"Want to join us Mad ?"

"Sorry mom, heading for ice cream."

"Have a ride home ?"

"Meg will bring me before dinner. Charlie and Bobby are exercising the horses. I think JT, Cars and April are out riding too. What have you two been doing ?"

"We met with Tom, visited Cornell, Foundation offices and here." Amy told her taking a sip.

"Did you see your office Doc ?"

"I did Mad, it's nice."

"And Tom ? Anything I should know ?"

"Probably" Ty answered "ready to sign on ?"

Maddie smiled which made her face and eyes light up then leaned over to kiss his cheek "come on Bina, let's get you a s'more cone." She said her hand switching to intertwining their fingers.

"Have fun girls." Ty said.

"Let us know if you'll be late Mad."

"I will mom, bye."

"We good Ty ?"

"We still need to talk, how about a stop on the way home and we can get done here ?"

"What are we talking about ?"

"Money Ames, you and I are done with money but we still have money to discuss."

Amy looked at him and found a big smile on his face when he turned back to her "we're good you and I, focus on that."

A little over an hour later they pulled out of the Commons their saddlebags stuffed with records and CD's and rode off towards Pegasus. Ty pulled out ahead at the front entrance turn and Amy followed him around to the spot near what would be the new stables construction and pulled in.

Ty helped Amy off of her bike and walked her over to the copse of trees they sat under the last time they stopped.

"I've always wanted a date in New Orleans Ty, who told you ?"

"Trish mentioned it."

"That's a boatload of woo Dr. Borden."

Ty gently shifted her a little and pulled her in for a long kiss. It included unzipping leather jackets and hands roaming.

After gentle kisses pulling away Amy whispered "Ty, what's this all about ?"

"This is my telling you that I love you so much and money, lots or not, will never change that."

"What did you want to talk about ?"

"Guidelines for the kids, I assume Betty knows about all the money ?"

"She does, the kids take some gentleness. I told Lisa and Grandpa they aren't dumb, they know that we have money, I assume the girls know we're millionaires. JT knows what he knows, he has school friends who have summer homes, and whose parents are doctors and lawyers but I think he understands that what we're contemplating as a summer home isn't what they have and he's peeked at some big numbers."

"So guidelines are play it by ear ?"

"Pretty much always the case with kids I guess, rules get bent and stretched and limits get pushed. It's part of growing up."

"Spreading their wings."

"As good an analogy as any. Look, the girls ask for Porsches the answer is no, they're too young but I don't think they will and they'll love building those trucks with you. They take their jobs and school seriously, they get and spend their allowances like other kids and every know and then we hand them a card to use for shopping and they know to be judicious."

"So they haven't gone overboard ?"

"No, no never. Last year one of their classmates homes had a bad fire in the fall and they needed $5000 for a roof so they tried a go fund me. It stalled with a little less than $3000 to go and they came and asked to donate which they did anonymously."

"How much ?"

"All the way."

"2 thousand ?"

"Little more."

"Ok, should we head back or." Ty started when Amy leaned up and caught his lips for a gentle kiss "let's or a little."

On Friday afternoon Amy and Jackson drove to Syracuse to pick up Georgie and Wyatt.

"So how did it go at the lawyer's yesterday ?"

"It went fine JT, we got the rules and discussed a beginning plan with Gran last night and we were going to talk to you three this weekend."

"So I have to wait ?"

"There's a step before adoption that we'd like to take called legal guardianship, it would give Ty the legal right to make decisions on your behalves."

"What does that mean ?"

"Well when Maddie got hurt in Alberta technically Gran was her closest relative, if they needed permission for a treatment or surgery Gran or I would decide. Legal guardianship would give Ty the right to make that decision or to say talk to your teacher about your grades or a problem."

"So still Dr. Borden."

Amy downshifted and reached over to put her hand on his head gently "sweet boy, I promise your dream will come true."

Georgie and Wyatt were smiling but a little subdued as they started down Route 81 towards Ithaca "You two Ok ?" Amy asked into the rear view mirror ?

"Hard to say goodbye." Wyatt said.

"And Cornell ?"

"And that, our commitments, a new life, wedding planning." Georgie said sighing.

"Sounds a little scary but exciting" Jackson said "we'll be with you Georgie."

"I know you will JT, thanks, it is a little scary and exciting."

"Yeah, so not so bad."

"No so bad buddy" Wyatt agreed "Right G, not too bad." He said leaning over to kiss her.

Amy pulled into Pegasus and past the house to the back road and pulled up at the stairs to Georgie and Wyatt's apartment.

"Home sweet home." Amy said putting the truck into park.

"I can't believe we're actually moving into this apartment."

"It'll be great having you here Georgie, you can ride with us and GG says you fish."

"There's also work and school JT."

"Oh sure, I got chores and school too but we'll find time for fun."

Georgie came out and stretched then noticed her horses, Spartan, Harley and Wallace off to the side. Phoenix whinnied and Georgie ran over.

"Hey boy, I'm so glad you're here and safe. I live right up there now." She said hugging him and then moving on to Checkers, Trouble and Morgan.

"Wallace is looking good." Georgie said walking over.

"He'd doing real well, he's yours Wyatt."

"Seriously, wow, I love Wallace."

"A match made in heaven then, Sarah couldn't bring herself to send him away." Amy said.

Wyatt stopped them and walked over to Wallace grazing a little in. "Hey buddy, we gonna be friends you and me ?" He said it softly and held out his hand. Wallace wandered over and Wyatt rubbed him neck and scratched his muzzle. "Good boy."

"Look at that, my fiancé is a horse whisperer." Georgie said laughing.

"Guess we'll have to do a food shop." Wyatt chuckled at Georgie and then hoisted a suitcase out of the back of the truck and reached for a second.

"It's stocked for your arrival, you can shop when you run low." Amy said starting up the stairs with a bag.

"That wasn't necessary Amy" Wyatt said.

"Then you can have it out with Betty, good luck with that by the way, while you're at it let her know that baskets of muffins on your doorstep and an extra cinnamon coffee cake or fresh bread to take with you after dinner won't be appreciated."

"Ok, let's not go overboard, maybe we should thank everyone with a family dinner." Georgie said laughing.

"Much better idea I think, I like chicken."

"Enough Jackson, they'll make what they make." Amy said patting his head gently.

Three sets of footsteps came up the steps then, Ty followed by Katie and Barb. Ty had the last suitcase with him and walked over to Wyatt and Katie and Barb went straight to Georgie who was with Amy and after hugs the shop and school talk began.

"You have a cocktail mixer at the law school tomorrow night I hear." Ty said.

"Be nice to know anyone." Wyatt said.

"You're Charlie Rodgers TA Wyatt, you'll be popular as hell. Truth is you'll become part of a study group, hopefully they'll be friends and you'll find most other people are too busy, make your friends here and at the foundation, unless you want the competitive crap."

"Definitely don't need the competition." Wyatt said "Is there beer in the fridge Georgie ?"

"There's beer on the beer side of the beverage cooler and wine on the other." Georgie bent over and opened the fridge pulling out a beer and handed it over to Wyatt and grabbed one for herself, anyone else ?"

"How was the trip Jackson ?" Ty asked sitting down on one of the plush leather chairs and pulling him onto his lap.

"Fine I guess, there and back, talked to mom."

"Anything I should know about ?"

"Stuff you know that I'm not supposed to talk about until later."

"Oh that stuff, is that stuff Ok with you ?"

"I guess."

"Not the stuff you're looking for huh ?" Ty whispered pulling him in and hugging him. "We talked about that stuff too you know."

"How's that going ?"

"Pretty good, I think you'll be happy."

"How about you and mom ?"

"Hard to believe but mom and I are happier today than yesterday."

"Must be pretty good then."

"You better get back to the house Jackson, Mom and I have late rounds, Barb you with us ?"

"You two are coming to the welcome home dinner right ?" Amy asked the seconds.

"We sure are, I'm going to run home first though." Katie said getting up as well.

"Looks like you two get some alone time" Amy said smiling. "See you at dinner."

Amy was the last to the door and turned as the rest headed down the stairs, Georgie and Wyatt had their arms around each other and Georgie turned to her smiling. Amy smiled back "got your back kid" and headed down after the others.

After rounds and back at the house, they had about a half hour before dinner and Amy and Ty sat together in the library.

"So you're going to marry me on November 26 Dr. Borden ?"

"That seems to be the consensus." He answered leaning over to kiss her head. He had his arm around her and she both her arms around him.

"Are you happy ?"

"I told Jackson that we're happier today than yesterday."

"I heard, I guess you figured out I told him about the legal guardianship."

"Yeah, that's Ok, should we just make the announcement tonight ?"

"At dinner ?"

"It's not like it'll be a secret on the ranch for more than 10 seconds, I'm shocked it lasted this long."

There was a knock at the door and Amy called out "enter". The twins came in and sat down on the small loveseat across from them.

"So what happened at Tom's office today ?" Maddie asked.

"Well I think I'd feel way more comfortable for the time being if Ty was made a legal guardian over you two and JT. We don't do the safest things together and I'd hate to have a delay in handling something serious."

"You two Ok with that ?" Ty asked.

The girls looked at each other and said "we are" simultaneously. "Something else is going on." Charlie continued.

"Too many changes in conversations on the hen express." Maddie said "Has some decision been made ?"

"November 26th" Amy said sitting up.

"November 26th what ?" Charlie said "Married ?"

"Married" Ty said.

"Wow, cool." Maddie agreed and then got up and hugged Amy and then Ty followed by Charlie doing the same.

"What's going on ?" JT said walking in with Betty.

"Married." Charlie said.

"Huh ?"

"Mom and Dr. Borden are getting married November 26."

"Oh wow, awesome" he said running across to hug his mom and then staying with her reached across to hug Ty as well.

"So it's official." Betty said standing behind the girls.

"So dresses ?" Maddie asked.

"Dresses" Amy agreed "let's just get this over with." She said pulling over her iPad. "Getting married November 26th, need dresses, love Amy."

"There, that should do it. Let's eat." The words were hardly spoken before her phone rang. She looked down and smiled then hit speaker.

"Sebastian, what a pleasant surprise, did I miss an appointment ?"

"This November 26th ?"

"Oh yes, it's a Saturday."

"Are you pregnant ?"

"That's a rather personal question." Amy answered laughing.

"I'm your dressmaker, am I buying spandex ?"

Amy laughed again, "no Sebastian, silk and lace and whatever your heart desires."

"This is not a lot of time at all Amy, send me a list and have them tell me anything I can use."

"Like ?" She asked.

"Let's start with colors and a list of names."

"I'm Amy, my color is white."

"I'll keep that in mind, congratulations Amy, he seems a fine man."

"Thank you Sebastian." Ty said.

"Are you wearing a tux Ty ?"

"I have no idea, I'm sure someone will let you know when they decide."

"Goodnight Sebastian and thank you." Amy said still laughing into the phone.

"Goodnight Amy."

The announcement at the table brought out a few bottles of Champagne. Along with Meg and Bert who were already at the welcome home dinner they were joined soon after by Trish and John, Trevor and Bryce, Charlie and the Caldwell's and called by the Potters, Carmichael's, and the Watson's, Roberta was positively giddy.

Georgie and Betty came over with hugs and best wishes from Lisa, Jack, Tim and Casey followed by phone calls of congratulations which turned into impromptu planning meetings.

Ty and Wyatt had joined the men for a drink in the library and Georgie found Amy off to the edge of a conversation about country weddings, Meg Koenig had already hit the store for a selection of the newest bridal styles and trends.

"Hey, you Ok ?"

"I'm fine Georgie, you ?"

"Well, somewhat happy you're going first."

"Really, why ?"

"You'll be done and we can concentrate on mine of course."

"Well to be up front, there'll probably be a big party in the summer. Like the late reception we did for Grandpa."

"Still not a wedding, jamborees don't count."

"This is important to you isn't it Georgie."

"I only intend to do it once and why shouldn't it be the most special day in our lives."

"No reason Georgie, until you have a child, trust me, nothing will ever top that in the sheer fear and joy you can feel in one moment."

"It wasn't easy for you was it ?"

"The easiest, hardest and most rewarding thing I'd ever done."

"Well, you did a hell of a job alone."

"I was never alone Georgie."

"Keep telling yourself that Amy. You plan on being pregnant at my wedding ?"

"When it happens, I'm a little older than I expected to be. You and Wyatt have a plan ?"

"We never wanted to wait but we were waiting to get married after school or close to it. Now with our responsibilities, we may still wait but I'm glad we'll be married."

"We'll support you either way Georgie, it would be hard the first couple years, vet and law schools require loads of studies, we're interviewing surgical assistants."

"We can handle the load Amy, do Katie and Barb know ?"

"It's not a matter of that Georgie, you'll all have similar schedules and will have to be away, you all have TA duties and we plan to have you all teaching sections eventually, in addition to what will happen when the rehab center opens. We're looking for a vet and two assistants, it gets crazy around here during the school year."

"Well then I think we should have a staff meeting and discuss it all."

"That's a good idea Georgie, Bert ?" Amy called out.

"Amy, Georgie what's up ?"

"I was telling Georgie about our plans for backup personnel."

"And she's not happy."

"I don't think any of us will be happy Bert."

"Georgie, nobody wants you three elbows deep in everything more than Ty and I do but we need to be ready for the inevitable, we can't schedule surgeries around exams, and boards and practicals and you need to learn Georgie, you all do and you'll need to unwind. They're back-ups and they'll tend to our patients when we're away. We even intern two botany students for Amy's staff. We hire hands because we lose the twins."

"Have you told Katie and Barb ?"

"No Georgie not yet" Bert answered looking at Amy.

"Georgie suggested a staff meeting to discuss what we're planning."

"I thought to do that this week anyway, how about tomorrow morning before rounds, Ty will be gone Sunday and Monday and we have Boxer and then he's off for another week to firm up Alberta."

"Say 9:00 o'clock and then 10:00 rounds ?" Amy suggested.

"Go talk to Katie and Barb Georgie and don't freak out." Bert said "and we're glad you're back Georgie."

She smiled at him and walked off to grab a water and sit with Katie and Barb.

"So you're getting married to that guy."

"Seems that way Bert. You Ok ?"

"Me, sure, why wouldn't I be, I like Ty, he's smart, funny, handsome, excellent surgeon."

"Rides well, makes our girl here blush and smile." John said bending deep to sit.

"Stop, both of you."

"What's going on here ?" Charlie said walking over with Trev.

"They're making me uncomfortable, too much testosterone and love."

"Hey we're all relieved we don't have to fight John to walk you down the aisle." Trev said laughing.

"Has that actually come up ?"

"During the times we wondered if you would actually ever date, yes." Charlie said.

"And what did you decide ?" She asked laughing.

"I don't think we ever came to a conclusion."

"I chose arm wrestling" John said.

"I'm sure you did John. That's so sweet all of you but I think Grandpa following Betty and Lisa."

"As it should be." Charlie said. "I'm heading home, I have lectures to work on."

"Where's Chuck Charlie ?" Ty asked coming over with Wyatt.

"Believe it or not Chuck is with Robin at a ballroom dancing class."

"Ballroom dancing ?" Amy said "wow."

"He is determined to dance with you at your wedding Amy and with Georgie at yours Wyatt." Charlie said somewhat choked up.

"That's so sweet" Amy said taking Charlie's hand.

"He never ceases to amaze me." Charlie whispered.

"Seems a thing with the kids around here Charlie" Ty said.

Maddie had asked and was granted permission to throw an after recital party for Brin at the house. Amy offered to host the adults and family and Meg and Sam agreed so while Maddie and Charlie were away either with Brin or setting up with Meg, Amy made sure that Pavel was fine. Ty made sure the on line hookup to the recital hall was set up for Pavel and Yvette to watch while Wyatt made sure Lisa's was working. They had arranged for the Mercedes bus to transport everyone coming from the house and others who met at the ranch to take the bus so at 5:45 they boarded for the 15 minute ride to the campus. The concert was scheduled for 6:30 and this gave them time to get seated and settled. Wyatt and Georgie went in the Mustang and were dressed for a cocktail party which they should make close to 8:00.

The Ithaca College School of Music is located in the James Whalen Music Center and houses several performance spaces. Most individual student recitals took place in the Neberhauer Recital Hall which seats 100. Sabrina was different. Aside from not actually being a college student, she was local, had an extended family and was a favorite of many of the faculty because she was a favorite accompanist for their students. She was also Meg's daughter and Meg was the preferred accompanist for the faculty. As such Sabrina's recital was to be held in the Hockett Family Recital Hall and was expected to fill almost all of the 250 seats. It was also being streamed which required the larger hall.

The bus pulled up and let everyone off before parking off to the side. The auditorium was already filling up and there were people and groups of students and professors hovering outside. The were three center rows tied off for Brin's closest friends and family. Meg came out when she saw the group come in and sat Amy and family with extra seats in the front row against their objections, "stop being silly where else would you sit you're like her second mom and I can't very well sit Charlie or Mad somewhere else."

Maddie came out and joined the family as soon as Meg went backstage. Sam was out a minute later.

"How she doing Mad ?" Ty asked.

"Brin's fine she gets anxious not nervous."

"Just wants it over with huh ?"

"Pretty much, she gets antsy so it's a matter of keeping her occupied."

Meg showed up and shuffled along until she dropped with Amy on one side and Sam on the other. Ty sat next to Amy, Maddie next to Ty, Charlie, JT and Betty.

Ty had been reading the program that he was handed. Brin would be performing 4 pieces separated by an intermission which seemed excessive to him.

"How long is one of these pieces ?" He whispered to Maddie.

"These four run around 18 minutes to 25 depending on the break between movements. Figure about 40 minutes then the intermission for about 10 then another 40. Never seen one of these Doc ?"

"I have no idea what to expect, like that's the biggest piano I've ever seen."

"That's a Steinway Concert Grand, 12 feet 6 inches long."

The lights dimmed and Ty was surprised when Maddie took his hand and squeezed.

He watched as a middle aged woman stepped out onto the stage. She was wearing a black dress with short heeled shoes. Her hair was a mix of black and wisps of grey and she had a very welcoming smile.

She had a distinctly Russian accent which Ty didn't expect "Good evening and welcome to Ithaca College. My name is Dr. Svetlana Porkova and I'm Chairman of the Piano Performance department here. More importantly tonight I am proud and honored to be Sabrina Caldwell's teacher. In that capacity I can only say that teachers are blessed with very few students in their lives like Sabrina, her talent and capacity for expression never ceases to amaze me. For the record, this performance completes Sabrina's last requirement for her Advanced Performance Certification in Piano as dictated by the Ithaca College requirements and those of the NASM. While Sabrina is not the youngest student to achieve this designation she is certainly the youngest at Ithaca. If you haven't already please make sure your phones are off. If you would all please welcome Ms. Sabrina Caldwell.

The applause was gentle when Brin walked out wearing a long blue gown and Ty was amazed, "wow."

"Like the gown Doc ?"

"I had no idea she'd be dressed like that. Who's the guy in the tux ?"

"Jackie her page turner."

"No shit, a page turner ?"

"Shhh." Maddie said smiling and then leaned up to kiss his cheek. She did not let go of his hand. Ty looked down and glanced at the program for the first piece as Brin sat herself.

Program

In the Mists (1912) Leoš Janáček (1854–1928)

Andante

Molto adagio

Andantino

Presto

Andante and Variations in F Minor (Sonata) (1793) Joseph Haydn (1732–1809)

Intermission

Sonata in F major, Op. 12 (1893) Jean Sibelius (1865 – 1957)

Allegro

Andantino

Vivacisskimo

Polonaise in F-sharp Minor, op. 44 (1841) Frédéric Chopin (1810–1849)

The above program fulfills Ms. Caldwell's practical performance requirement for the completion of an Advanced Performance Designation as set forth by the NASM

Recorder Concerto in G Major (1729) Antonio Vivaldi (1678 – 1741)

Accompanied by Margaret Caldwell

Ty sat back and in the beginning watched Sabrina play, her facial expressions, her eyes closed or open, her feet working three hidden pedals. The sound of her playing filled the room, a clean round sound. He saw her slight nod and watched the young man turn her page and realized that there was no time for her to do it herself. After a time he closed his eyes and just listened. It felt almost painful when the playing stopped abruptly and he opened his eyes and moved his hand to applaud and found one held by Mad as it had been the whole time and Amy grabbing for the other.

"This piece has four movements, you applaud between pieces not movements" Mad whispered, "I'll let you know, don't be first and your safe."

The second movement started a few seconds later and Ty again felt himself get lost until a brief pause before it started again. He found the theme of the music returned to time and again, danced around and when the last movement a quick and fast piece like rain stopped abruptly he welcomed the applause that exploded from the audience and joined in enthusiastically. He looked at Maddie and saw the pride and love in her eyes and then looked up at Sabrina smiling down at them and bowing.

He was surprised when Sabrina spoke thinking she would just return and play. She thanked everyone for coming then spoke about In the Mists, the piece she just played. When she was done she introduced the next piece by Josef Haydn and spoke about him and the importance of the piece in his career. The hall quieted when she returned to the piano.

"This is one piece, about 14 minutes."

"14 minutes ?" Ty whispered back to Maddie.

"Shhh." Maddie said smiling and then leaned up to kiss his cheek and again take his hand.

For her part Amy looked at Ty and watched him and Maddie and then let the music take her as well. It was not the music she was weaned on but she couldn't deny its beauty, its' statement. Ty's face was a picture of wonder tinged with love, there was no other way to describe it and she smiled when he rose with Maddie and applauded enthusiastically when it ended. He hugged Maddie before she inched out of the row followed by Meg and watched them scurry up the stairs to the backstage area and Brin.

"What do you think of our Sabrina Ty ?" Amy asked leaning over and wrapping her arms around his.

"She's amazing, I've never heard anything like this, I mean I've heard classical music but this ?"

Ty noticed there was a cart with cold water bottles in the back and walked over to grab two. Trish walked over to him smiling before he returned to his seat.

"I thought you two would sit with us ?"

"We have the kindergarteners to watch over" she said nodding to the 20 or so bikers sitting in the back corner of the hall. They all seemed to have their wives with them and some kids.

"The whole club ?"

"Yeah, nothing to do about that but some of the closer clubs are watching. He had to limit attendance."

"You're Ok with me stealing him away Trish ?"

"Oh sure, I'll stay busy and hang with Amy, we'll be fine."

"We'll see you after Ty, you better head back."

Ty smiled and then nodded to John who had turned in his seat and smiled seeing him.

When he sat down he kissed Amy and handed her a bottle. Looking back to the program he read that the next two pieces aside from the total time to perform them was almost 35 minutes and both were considered major works by their composers, Sibelius and Chopin, both pieces highly charged and emotional.

"I can't imagine more emotional than what she's already played" Ty said showing the words to Amy.

"Expect Maddie to cry, something comes over Brin playing pieces like that, listening to her can be exhausting Ty."

Maddie and Meg returned just as the lights flickered.

"How's she doing ?" Amy asked Meg.

"She's good, she fought for this program."

"You wouldn't have made her change." Amy whispered back.

"No she wouldn't have Amy, this was Sabrina's choice to make, imagine the Sibelius at 15." Nan Florov whispered over them both. Nan was 76 with a slight Russian accent and had Meg late in life having chosen to spend a few years on the concert circuit before having her, Meg was an only child and a prodigy in her own rights when she was younger.

"I get it mom, she's ready, I'm so proud of her."

"Who are those people in the back writing ?" Ty asked Maddie.

Mad turned for a second and then to Ty. "This is for real Dr. Borden, those are Piano Performance Professors and an NASM adjudicator, she's being graded. Brin's a high school student getting a certification many college seniors don't earn."

"I read that, I didn't realize that this was a practical."

"Same thing for sure." Maddie said patting their intertwined hands "she'll be amazing."

Sabrina walked out a couple minutes later and bowed for the applause. This time she thanked her judges and the adjudicator for their time, her professors, mom, family and Maddie for her love, support and understanding. She then described her next piece the Sonata in F major, Op. 12 by Jean Sibelius.

"She debated doing this here or last, watch her hands." Maddie whispered as Brin sat.

Ty sat back and for the next 18 minutes was not only mesmerized by her hands but the music itself. It seemed the music offered very little rest and Brin seemed to attack the keys. The speed at which she played, the complexity of what he would later be told were under and overtones, were almost hard to see. While Jackie her page turner did his job Ty could not recall one instance where he actually saw Sabrina look up. Her hair fell over the side of her face where you could only catch a glimpse of her expression as it bounced away or she leaned forward. When it was done and the audience jumped to their feet to applaud she physically slumped forward and heaved a breath. Jackie handed her a white towel that seemed hidden to his side and Sabrina gently mopped her face. When she finally stood you could see her hair up front was slightly damp and her face was flushed. She smiled and bowed two or three times and then looked to the judges and nodded. Ty turned to see that they too had stood to applaud. With a small glance that swept the front row she bowed again and walked off.

"Wow." Ty exclaimed, "that was amazing."

He turned to Maddie who had tears in her eyes and put his arm around her. Glancing the other way, Meg, Amy and Nan were in a three way hug. Sam sat with his mom and dad and smiled at Ty. Looking around more than a few people had tears in their eyes or were cleaning up. He spotted Lorin and Pat McLaughlin, the Dean and his wife and smiled. Lorin nodded as did Pat who was wiping her eyes gently. Trish and several of the biker wives were in full blown tears, the bikers stoic but their expressions told a different story. Sally sat with Bobby who was also putting up a good front. She was crying as was Erma. April smiled and waved at him.

Sabrina returned a few minutes later, her face was back to normal as was her breathing. The crowd rose to another standing ovation. Sabrina lifted her hands and again thanked everyone. She introduced the next piece and spoke about it's place in Chopin's life and repertoire and it's importance as a piano piece. When she sat down she took several deep breaths, closed her eyes and began.

Ty watched Sabrina during this piece as well. It was more of a measured piece with sweeping crescendos which he would later learn was a Chopin trait, She bounced while she played this piece as if it were more fun and on the way home Amy explained what she had learned over the years, that a Polonaise was a dance that went from slow to triple time popular in the 1700's so that a composed polonaise followed the same. It began on a somber note and ended that way. He could see Sabrina smile while the last sound dissipated from the strings. She reached over and touched the piano before turning and hugging Jackie. Then she nodded to herself and stood to face the audience who were cheering and applauding. Ty smiled when Cars and JT walked out carrying a huge bouquet of dozens of roses to hand her. She leaned over to hug her mom and dad then her grandparents. She leaned into Amy and Ty and then leaned over for a sweet kiss from Maddie who reached up to touch her cheek.

Dr. Porkova came out and Sabrina asked JT and Cars to take the roses to the side of the stage and then she stepped out. Meg had stepped through the aisle while the applause was going on.

"Thank you all and thank you Sabrina for a truly inspiring performance. The program we've heard until know fulfills Sabrina's performance requirement but we ask your indulgence for one more piece. As the requirements for Advanced Certification is a solo performance Sabrina wanted to add something so that she could play for you with her most important teacher and mentor, her mother Margaret Caldwell. Meg is well known to our students and faculty as the accompanist of choice here at our school and I heartily agree although Sabrina has her favorites as well. To bide her time and gain some sanity back after grueling hours at the keyboard Sabrina plays the recorder and as expected, does so exceptionally well. So I'd like you all to welcome Sabrina back and her accompanist Meg. Ladies and gentleman, Sabrina and Margaret Caldwell performing Antonio Vivaldi's Recorder Concerto in G Major."

While she spoke two young men came out, one closed the piano lid and the other set up a music stand and a chair. Jackie came out and opened a folder of music on the piano. Sabrina walked out holding her beautiful wooden recorder which was obviously polished and glowed a dark gold in her hands. She bowed and then stepped aside for her mom who also bowed and sat down. She took a second to adjust the piano bench and then nodded to Sabrina who sat and got settled as well. This seemed a fun part for her, the pressure over she smiled up at the audience playfully as if she was sitting in the barn.

The music was bright and bouncy and the instruments played off each other happily. Brin and Meg's excitement and smiles drove the piece and the audience couldn't help but see how happy she was. She was very good as was Meg and Ty marveled again at the surety of Brin's movements and fingers as they swept up and down the recorder's tone holes. At one point he caught sight of the light hitting her diaphragm and was shocked at the control she seemed to have. He watched as she sucked in huge quantities of air when she could that she played out slowly. Her control reminded him a little of watching Jackson swimming, the calmness in him as he sucked in lungfuls of air between strokes or when coming out of the water after a turn.

12 minutes later the piece ended as abruptly as it started and Brin rose and bowed along with Meg and when Meg came forward Brin stepped back for her mom's applause before Meg reached back and took her by the hand. It was April who brought Meg her bouquet. They each bowed again and hand in hand left the stage.

Ty stood and turned to Maddie. "I'll come with the Caldwell's" she said reaching around to hug him. "I'm glad we did that together Dr. Borden, I hope you liked it."

"It was wonderful Mad, Brin is wonderful and I loved being a part of it with you. I'll see you at home."

Maddie pulled back for a second and kissed his cheek then leaned up to whisper "I think the vote's swinging your way Doc, I love you."