A/N – So here we are officially re-engaged, hope it was everything you hoped for :-). I have several new and different ending points in mind for this story, the original ending I had planned doesn't seem right anymore. Oh well, new episode tonight, I keep waiting for something meaningful to happen, we'll see if it does. Keep writing those reviews and PM's, enjoy the chapter.
Chapter 84
Ty sighed as he woke and became aware of his surroundings.
"Amy " he whispered lifting the blanket.
"Good morning, happy birthday Ty." She whispered back.
"What's going on ?"
"Excuse me ?" She giggled.
"No, I definitely know what's going on, what time is it ?"
"Around 5:45 ?" Amy whispered unsure herself.
"Why so early ?" He groaned.
Amy looked over "fishing."
"Shit, fishing."
"Can we focus now sweetheart ?"
"Sorry"
Amy followed Ty down the stairs at 6:30 and stood back as the HAPPY BIRTHDAY ! exploded from the kitchen and Jackson ran over to get scooped up.
"Happy Birthday papa !" Maddie and Charlie said walking to either side to kiss his cheek. Maddie had to lean past JT and trapped a kiss from him on the way back past him.
"Come on Mad" he said pulling back jostling Ty.
"Easy cowboy, it's just a sister kiss." Ty said putting Jackson down and looking in at the table. There was a small pile of presents stacked by his seat and he made his way around and shook Jacks hand and then leaned over to kiss his mom, shake Wade's hand, kiss Lisa, Lou and Katie and finally get a hug and kiss from Betty who was manning the stove.
"Thank you all" Ty said sitting down and then smiling at Amy who leaned over for a kiss after putting down his coffee.
"So do I open these now ?" Ty asked or after we eat.
"Go ahead Ty this way we can clear the table." Betty said flipping a load of bacon and sausages.
He glanced over at Jackson who pointed at the long wrapped package and smiled when Ty lifted and shook it.
"Walking stick ?"
"Come on, open it" Jackson gushed.
Ty ripped the package wrapping to reveal the Orvis box and laid it down to slide out the rod. Jackson pushed a second and third case over. "These are all from mom and me." He said.
Before opening the second case Ty examined the rod "it's pretty short."
"It's a float boat rod, it's supposed to be shorter."
"Did you get yourself one ?" Ty asked.
"Oh yeah, sure and one for Cars, his birthday's next month."
Ty laughed and shook his head then reached for what must have been the reel and opened that. "You pick this ?"
"Sure did." JT answered. "Best one out there."
The third box contained two leather cases that looked to be a match to what he had bought at the crafts fair for them both. One for the rod and one for the reel.
Maddie and Charlie handed him the next box. "This is from Charlie and I, GG and Grand Mere."
Ty glanced over at Jack and Lisa before opening the ribbon and wrapping to reveal three leather cases that matched the other gear and zipping the first open a series of 12 flies. Each of the other two had 12 flies as well. "Two for the boat and one for the river" Maddie said.
"When did you two have time for this ?"
"You've been pretty busy the past two weeks Papa, we did them right in front of your face." Charlie said.
"I'm sorry I haven't."
"Hey, Hey" Maddie stopped him "you don't have to apologize for doing your job Papa, we love that you come down and stay with us while you work."
Ty smiled, he was obviously getting choked up by the effort they all made and the love and meaning evident in the gifts.
"We each made 12, Mad, GG and I and Grand Mere tracked down the artisan and ordered the cases."
"Thanks Charlie." He said leaning over to kiss her and then leaned further for Mad.
For the past month Betty had been knitting Ty a dark grey sweater with big toggle antler buttons, oversized pockets, long fold over sleeves and a big collar. The kind you snuggle up in. It was made from a yarn spun of Pegasus Alpaca and Merino wool by Wicca Stroudt who Amy had partnered with to deal with the family's share of Alpaca fiber.
"It's really nice Betty" he said trying it on even though it was slightly too warm for indoors even in mid fall. It wasn't a surprise, she had measured the sleeves and back across his body while he stood with his hands out or up. This had gone on for a month where at any moment she could stop him, grab her knitting bag and measure something. It was annoying but he was advised by not only Amy, but the twins and Jackson that refusing was just not advisable.
Lily had several pictures of Ty as a kid growing up framed and shipped ahead for Betty to hide and Wade got Ty a padded leather vest to wear for rides in the fall.
Lou and Katie had a new bridle made for Harley, his last, a gift from Amy was starting to get a bit ragged.
"It's a set Ty" Lou said as he took it out it and held it up to look at it. The bridle had a Sheridan carving highlighted by two beautiful silver conchos at the edge of the nosepiece. It was very well done and felt and looked very expensive.
"A set ?"
"A set with the saddle I had them make for you Ty." Amy said from across the table.
"Ames, really ?"
"Yes really."
"I've never had my own saddle I don't think."
"Then that would mean it's about time." She answered as Betty slid a plate of bacon, eggs and fried potatoes in front of him and slid platters on the table a moment later.
Ty smiled up at Betty when she bent over to kiss his cheek again.
"Happy birthday son" she whispered before turning away.
Chuck came in as they were finishing and walked around the table to shake Ty's hand and wish him a happy birthday. He turned for a second and looked around before reaching for the bridal. "looking for this" he said. "The rest of you are saddled, Brin, Bobby, Carson and April are all waiting on the porch."
"Jack you coming ?" Ty asked hearing the list of names.
"Uhm well."
"His hands are acting up Ty, Jack was going to just go ride out for awhile"
Ty nodded to Lisa "that's fine Jack, I'll be fine."
"I'll ask Chuck to grab Spartan for me if that's Ok Amy ?"
"I'd actually appreciate it Grandpa."
"Can't convince you to come Ames ?"
"Grand rounds with Bert in your place sweetheart and we have to sit for a little while and go over the current case files."
"Well, sorry about that."
"Nope, it's fine, go spend your birthday morning with the kids and we'll see you for lunch."
"The girls have the thermal packs with snacks and coffee Ty."
"We'll meet you outside papa." Maddie called out getting up and getting her plate into the sink followed by the other kids. Ty could see them each joining their friends on the porch and then heading down to the horses Chuck had arranged to have saddled and waiting.
"I guess I should've seen this coming." Ty said standing.
"Go on be a good papa, they all love you, you'll have a ball." Amy said reaching around him.
She watched Ty climb down the stairs and pull on his new fall fishing jacket, the kids were mounted and he took a second to look up at the porch where Lou and Amy were standing and watching him examine his new saddle and bridle. Ty realized that the saddle was hand sewn and carved. His name carved out on the cantle and the back jockey with the Pegasus and Heartland logos side by side on the stirrup fenders. It was a beautiful piece of work and Ty turned to smile and tap his heart at Amy and Lou.
Amy texted Bert from the porch and learning he was still 15 minutes away joined Lou with a cup of coffee on the porch along with Betty, Lisa, Lilly, Wade and Jack.
"He's good with them." Lily said sitting down.
"He is", Amy added with a chuckle "and he's very cute with them too. "
"They revel in keeping him on his toes for sure." Betty added.
They all looked up as Trish's pickup turned down the road and Lily and Wade got up. Lily grabbed a sweater off the rail.
"You two heading out ?" Amy asked.
"Trish is taking us to a meeting, we'll be back for lunch." Wade said walking by and patting her on the shoulder.
Amy nodded then waved at Trish who stayed in the truck.
"AA ?" Jack asked watching the truck leave.
"I assume yes, I saw them talking with John and Trish the other day."
"How are they doing, Wade and Lily ?"
"They seem great Grandpa, I assume you've had more contact with them over the years than I have."
"We saw them a few times over the years at the ranch, Ty would run into the city to meet Wade when he was in town or during a layover." Lisa said.
"They've turned their lives around." Jack agreed. "I'm glad they didn't see him after you left though, he was a mess."
"So I've heard, that part scares me a little, the drinking kind of thing. Our family histories suck."
"Well your dad …"
"And your dad Grandpa, and I assume Brad."
"Well you don't drink and Ty doesn't drink excessively."
"No but he has at times drank excessively and I'm not sure that's as big as how often."
"So what are you saying Amy ?" Betty asked.
"I'm saying that we want to have a baby or more maybe and we pass on that genetic stamp. I'm not worried about Ty although I do at times worry but he's not what this is, is what I mean."
"And when you worry about Ty what is it your worry about Honey ?"
"Well Lisa, I worry about if something happens to me or one of the kids and it's effect on him."
"Not breaking up ?"
"That will never happen again Grandpa."
"We can't do anything about the rest."
"I know that too Grandpa."
Ty and Bobby took care of picketing the horses while the girls laid out blankets and Cars and JT wandered down to the water.
Back together the group decided that the teens would head upstream for an hour or so, come back for a snack and then switch so that everyone would have some time with Ty of his birthday.
April stayed closest to shore, Ty to her left slightly behind with Jackson and Carson to his left further across.
Cars picked up the first nibble to a handsome but short brown trout about 9 inches long.
"First is first Cars, we don't keep 'em anyway." JT called over making Ty smile. He had been to his first parent teacher meeting the week before, 6 weeks in and he had heard Jackson's gym teacher praising his exuberance and good nature. If a kid was trying Jackson was there encouraging him.
He was surprised when April got a bite on a large rainbow.
"Jackson he's too big" she shrieked.
Ty looked over and turned to move when he realized Jackson was already trudging behind him, reeling himself in as fast as he could. "Coming April, just hold on."
Once again Ty was amazed and reached for his phone. Jackson got right behind her and a second later had his hands on the pole around her.
"Lean back April and reel, you got him."
Carson yelled encouragement from the other side while Ty recorded the effort of this tiny couple.
Jackson moved the pole judiciously as she reeled, guiding the fish. He tore free twice and the second time Jackson slowed the reel and together they turned the fish. "He's real big Jax." April called out.
"He's a whopper for sure April" JT gasped "keep reeling."
"It's almost here Jax !"
"Get ready to hold him, I have a net right here."
As second later in a well orchestrated move Ty assumed most kids couldn't do one handed Jackson reached around, unclipped his net and scooped the fish head on and up.
"We got it Jax, get it out."
"Gimme a second April, lower your pole and let out some line."
Jackson got a good hold and dropped the net onto a rock holding up a huge 14 inch rainbow trout that glistened. Ty was snapping pictures while he filmed and then took two, one of April alone with it and one with them both. A minute later she was kneeling down with Jackson at the water's edge to let him head on his way.
Ty also got a picture of April leaning over to kiss JT's cheek before they stood up.
"I think I'll draw now." April announced and then simply turned and walked to the horses.
Ty thought for a second and thumbed through his phone until he found a shot of Jackson with his arms around April and sent it to Amy and Erma.
By the time the teens walked back Ty had tagged two and Cars and Jackson each their one. Ty had the distinct impression that Jackson left some nibbles go not wanting to outfish him but he wasn't really sure.
Fishing was somewhat better up stream it seemed as each of the teens netted two. Ty laid the water bottles out for the kids to grab and Maddie grabbed the bagged fruit to share. They watched JT's and April's awesome catch to exclamations and giggles by the girls.
All passed around pictures of their catches.
"April you coming up with me and Cars ?" JT asked.
"I gotta finish my picture Jax."
"Oh, Ok, maybe when your done."
She looked up and smiled at him "we'll see, first things first mom says."
As the boys walked off Ty watched and turned when Charlie put her hand on his "they're fine papa, stop worrying."
"Does that ever happen ?"
"That's a mom question but I'm willing to bet no, I think the trick is letting go a little."
"I guess that might come in time" Bobby said "they do know what they're doing Ty."
"What are you drawing today April ?" Brin asked leaning over.
"It's a secret" she whispered turning the pad a little for Brin to peak at.
Brin leaned over conspiratorially and whispered "is it a gift ?"
April smiled and nodded yes.
"We have a piano at home too."
"I've played it" Brin answered.
"Could you show me how ?"
"You want to learn to play April ?"
April nodded.
"Then I'll talk to your folks about lessons, how's that ?"
April's face lit up "Jax said you would."
"Well he was right, I'd love to teach you but you have to promise to practice. Now you finish up your drawing and I'll join Mad and fish."
"You like fishing Brin ?"
"I like fishing with Maddie sweetie."
"Me too, with Jax I mean."
"Our little secret then."
April nodded with a smile again as Brin turned to grab her rod and head down to the water.
"She Ok Brin ?" Ty asked as she passed behind him.
"She's great, she wants piano lessons."
"What do you charge for lessons ?"
"Erma ? One pastry and a cup of milk per lesson, preferably after."
Ty smiled "normally".
"A beginner under 10 $20 a half hour. A high school student $50 an hour."
"You teach high school students ?"
"I've taught college kids too, weird huh ?" Brin answered with a smile.
"I guess not, I've heard you play."
"Are you a fan Ty ?" She asked with a side glance.
"Guess so Sabrina."
"So Maddie tells me your going in for some tailored suits."
"At least one, I could text you."
"Guess we can't come to help huh ?"
"I doubt it but this has been working out."
"Mom doesn't have a clue and she thinks you looked awesome last weekend." Maddie said from Brin's left. "She hasn't asked where the clothes are coming from ?"
"Not a word."
After a meeting held in secret several weeks back it was decided that Ty's wardrobe would be supplemented as needed by Christine with recommendations from Brin and Maddie which turned out to be Brin choosing and Maddie nodding. So when arrangements were made for a weekend of dance in New Orleans and Ty needed 2 summer weight suits, 2 sport coats, shirts, socks and slacks, Ty emailed Christine who sent pictures to Brin and Mad and then with Ty's approval, his purchases were shipped to his office at Cornell. The system was pretty perfect.
"It's clear you have excellent taste Ty, why would she question that ?"
"You choose everything Brin."
"And you chose me, so all good."
"Pretty perfect set-up if you ask me Papa, it's not as if you're cheating on her."
"Thanks Mad."
Once Carson and Jackson were seen on the trail returning, they had each caught two, Ty waded out onto shore followed by the teens. He was happy that they took the time to do this and that there was this to do, something they all enjoyed even if it was catching one fish and sitting to draw.
"This is for you Ty, Happy Birthday." April said walking over. Once again she had tied one her hair ribbons around a rolled up drawing.
Ty bent down and April leaned forward to kiss his cheek. He smiled at her and pulled the ribbon as everyone else gathered around. It was a picture of them all fishing they were near the actual places where they had been, the faces were blurry, intentionally he thought so that the color of the clothes gave away who was who in the picture.
"I drew you and Jax and Cars first then added the others when you changed so it would all be right. Do you like it ?"
"It's beautiful April, we'll get it framed and have Amy find a good place for it." He said leaning over to kiss her and give her a hug. Then all the kids complimented it as Ty rolled and slid it into his rod case after making sure his rod was dry.
Lunch at the house was Ty's favorite, thanksgiving sandwiches, turkey, stuffing and cranberry sauce although not already constructed so you could make any variation turkey sandwich you wanted actually.
Neither Amy nor Ty actually had any clear idea of who would be joining them in Rochester or the restaurant after. It seemed most of the people Amy had seen over the morning mentioned they'd see her later but she thought that might have actually been a normal thing to say. All she knew was her, Ty and the kids were heading up in the Jag, it's maiden family run, Wyatt, Georgie, Barb and Katie in the Mustang and Jack and all the grands, Lou and Katie in the LandCruiser. They left at slightly different times, it wasn't really a caravan but it was arranged that everyone else other than these three cars would be first and seated so that this group would be seated in the dim theater last.
As expected the kids tried out all the bells and whistles in the back seat and took control of the stereo. The trip was about 90 minutes from the ranch to the Strasenburgh Planetarium where Ty was told to follow the signs to the Preferred Parking Lot where a bar code on his phone would get them in. Eventually, Jackson fell asleep and the girls read books on their iPads or texted with Brin and Bobby. Amy and Ty sat up front holding hands and watching the scenery go by. They answered a question here and there and both hummed or sang softly if a favorite song came by.
Once in town, the GPS led them downtown to the Science Center and finally around a corner where they immediately saw the preferred parking sign for the planetarium and a ramp down. Ty followed to the booth where he held out his phone to be scanned.
"Welcome Dr. Borden, have you been here before ?"
"Sorry no."
"Benefactor's Parking is straight ahead against that wall, you can't miss it and there's a packet for you" he said reaching back "right here" handing it across. " Wear the cards and stop anyone with a badge if you need help."
Ty thanked the guard and drove off. Amy leaned over, "benefactor Ty ?"
"Probably a tax dodge Ames, just go with it."
"Charlie ?"
"Who else ?"
"He does have a way."
Ty laughed and pulled up next to Charlie's white Maserati. Ty knew he had come with Chuck, Robin, Trev and Stephanie.
"No hiding that." He said walking past.
He had his arm around Amy and Jackson walked on his other side. Ty held out his hand and a second later got a small one in return.
"This is cool, I read about it on-line, they tell the history of New York in the stars."
"Are you interested in the history of New York Jackson ?" Ty asked.
"We're doing it in school this year, April's dad has a cannon ball that's 200 years old."
"I've seen it, and two muskets that were carried during the revolution."
"Yup she's gonna love this."
The envelope they had been handed by the guard contained an all access pass for each of them on a lanyard to be worn around your neck.
"What does all access mean ?" JT asked.
"No idea." Ty answered.
"What's a Benefie something ?"
"A benefactor is a contributor Jackson."
"So we're one ?"
"Apparently we are, let's get to the theatre."
"Well, what's a contributor ?"
Maddie giggled "Jax come walk with us sweetie."
Amy giggled as well and reached up to kiss Ty's cheek as they walked through the theatre doors. "You're just the best papa you know that."
"What ?" Jackson asked looking up at Maddie.
"Nothing bud, all's good let's just give them a few minutes in peace, a contributor donates something usually money to help a cause."
"Like the art place for the kids ?"
"Just like the art place."
"Cool."
Ty chuckled and Amy shifted and bumped him lovingly.
"Fleming Borden ?" A smiling middle aged man in a suit said walking towards them.
"That's us" Jackson said.
"Which would make you Dr. Borden" he said stepping forward and shaking Ty's hand "and you Ms. Fleming" he said to Amy shaking her hand. "And Madelyn, Charlotte and Jackson."
The kids each raised their hand a little when their name was said.
"Well, welcome to you all, I am James O'Keefe the Chief Astrologer and Curator of the Strasenburgh."
"Hey that's cool, we know the head zookeeper at the Calgary Zoo."
"A zoo huh, I don't know if I can compete with a zoo." Dr. O'Keefe said laughing "but we'll give it a shot."
"Is it Dr. ?"
"Dr. O'Keefe, I'm sorry."
"Are we going to be late ?" Amy asked.
"Oh no I just wanted to say hello and welcome, if you ever need something or want to see an event just use the number on that card. Let me get you to your seats."
It was dim in the theatre and they walked inside while an ad for the laser light shows they hosted at the planetarium had just started, this one was the Beatles.
"I love the Beatles, we should come to this" Amy said standing aside and looking up at the ceiling as the kids went in to the small box on the side.
After making sure the family was seated and Ok, their was a quick introduction to a steward assigned to their box as well as the being shown the availability of water to their right in a small unlit refrigerator.
When they were finally alone Amy leaned over "how much did we give them ?
"I have no idea, seriously, no idea."
Amy laughed "you're taking this all pretty well."
"It's my birthday, I'm just going with it."
"Good policy" Amy said leaning over into his side as Ty put his arm around her.
There were a couple more ads and a request to silence phones and other devices. When these were done the theatre dropped several degrees of darker still as the show began.
"Good evening gentle people and welcome to the Strasenburgh Planetarium Sky Show. If you haven't already please silence whatever devices that need it. Ordinarily we go straight into our show but today we're honoring a special request and beg your indulgence for a special performance we've prepared."
It seemed the theatre darkened just a touch more as stars appeared on the ceiling and then planets. As always there was a sigh from the crowd and then a lone voice came over the speakers a familiar voice to some, Jack's voice.
"It was over that ridge as far as we could tell Jackson, where Samuel Bartlett first stepped foot on Heartland in 1872. They claimed 160 acres as part of the Dominion Act and moved in from the coast where they had landed from England a few years before."
As the voice spoke the sky show zoomed in from the planets and through the stars onto earth and then the US and then Canada, Alberta and down past Calgary to a sky shot of Heartland to an aerial shot which then cleverly switched to what everyone assumed was the sky above Heartland on May 28, 1772 as noted in Samuel's original diary.
"That's GG, he said that to me" Jackson whispered.
"Ty ?" Amy asked.
"Shhhh watch the show." Ty whispered back.
The show followed Jack's voice that was cut into a sky show of the rough timeline based on the tour of Heartland and the cemetery back when Jackson visited. It wasn't meant to be all inclusive and the last thing they heard before the sky went dark was Jack "I guess the last two things your Grandma did in her life was send Ty to Heartland and save Spartan."
The next voice in the darkness was Ty's which started simultaneously with the sky lighting again.
"It was a nice day, not too hot when our plans were dashed by an unexpected visit though in the end, August 11th, 2012 turned out better than I could ever have hoped."
The crowd listened as Ty ran through the events of the day with him and Amy tasked to head up to Stumpy's fish camp, their arrival and exploration of the camp. As he described the river, the paddock and finally the Teepee, a representative one appeared in the corner of the sky along with a river nearby. Ty spoke about the foal they found and treating it and then walking alongside the river that night.
"She told me how proud she was of me, she always did, kept me moving forward. I was a pain in the ass back then I guess, it was hard to believe that my life could actually include prolonged happiness. We stood across from the teepee which was lit from inside."
As he described the evening the tent changed to reflect being lit from inside, the river faded from view and the sky took on a beautiful luminescence.
"I'd had it in my pocket all day, just waiting for what seemed the right moment, when the wild herd took off and we felt them under our feet."
The planetarium was equipped well and at that moment a low rumble came through the speakers but more importantly the vibration. The crowd let out a low gasp.
"Amy turned at that second and a shooting star shot across the sky." And on queue as he said it one shot across the sky.
Amy was crying by then and then as the voice described "She turned then and said 'Look Ty, make a wish" Amy said the words along with him as he stood up in the aisle and knelt, the sound in the theatre was off at this point and you could hear a pin drop as Ty said "I wish I could spend the rest of my life with you" and then I knelt "Amy Fleming will you marry me ?"
Ty looked up at Amy as he knelt "Yes, Yes Yes, of course I will" she cried and just as she had before struggled off the promise ring and Ty snugged the engagement ring onto her finger. During this last part they had raised the lights a bit in their box so that all the audience could take in the proposal.
With the ring in place and Amy, as she had so long ago was drawn into Ty's arms and a kiss and in a second lifted herself, wrapped her legs around Ty and the auditorium erupted in applause. Looking around before being attacked by the kids she saw that the two boxes on either side contained her and Ty's families to the left and her adopted families in Ithaca to the right. She also noted that a large chunk of audience were her ranch and foundation families.
Many cried, others hooted and cheered and after some brief hugging the lights began to dim as they settled back in their seats. Amy snuggled up to Ty and fiddled with her ring while they nuzzled at each other as the actual sky show began. They watched in each other's arms, Amy tucked securely into Ty's side any one glancing over stood a 50-50 chance of seeing them kissing.
"Happy Ames ?"
"It was as breathtaking as the first time Ty, how did you manage that ?"
"I'm shocked I actually pulled it off, it wasn't that hard, they sent a video file once I set the vocals on a file and then we tweaked it a little. They can recreate any sky for any event, it's pretty amazing."
Jackson had kept up a serious running dialogue as the show progressed and his sisters buffered him from Amy and Ty. As the show closed the newly re-engaged couple had clearly paid very little attention. Ty silently promised himself a return one day to actually watch the show and maybe a laser light music show as well.
They left the booth and walked along a short hallway to the round entrance hall to the theatre where a crowd had gathered amidst the birthday decorations they had set up. Ty laughed as they used the regular birthday stuff that they would set up for a child's birthday, streamers, large decorations and characters in outfits. There were goody bags set up for the guests that held trinkets and small gifts including little viewers that you can hold up to the light to see the night sky. There were coloring books about the planetarium to be handed out as well as birthday snacks and cupcakes.
"Would you look at this ?" Amy laughed. "Charlie's got the strangest sense of humor.
They watched as an elderly couple neither knew walked over.
"We're so happy we were a part of that. We're the Dolan's, Patty and Jerry." The elderly woman told them "Congratulations you two !"
"Thanks so much" Ty said. "I guess you're the last of the three Assisted Living groups ?"
"The one that didn't cancel, we all loved it." Jerry said.
"Second marriages ?"
"Nope, first for both." Amy said "it's a long story."
"Well dear as long as you're happy." Patty said reaching over to tap Amy's hand.
"We are, thank you both again."
Several other elderly couples also offered congratulations as did, hands, seconds, jockey's and trainers who had taken time to come up and witness the event. Though Charlie placed no restrictions on who could attend dinner, many of the regular ranch staff opted to head home. Though Veteran's Day was often an 'off' day for many and schools would be closed, the life of a ranch or a ranch employee didn't hold many days off, the animals and the facility itself needed care on those days as well, many showed up with small helpers on off school days and Amy was fine with it.
The room had thinned out after 20 minutes or so, Charlie had joined the group of close friends that formed around Amy and Ty.
"I think we're down to the dinner group" Charlie mentioned to Amy and Ty.
"Everyone here coming to dinner at Belhurst ?" Charlie called out. "OK, it's about 45 minutes or so, use the valet when you get there and tell them Pegasus. Dinner's on Ty."
Ty laughed "Benefactor ?"
"Yeah, we split that, Chuck loves this place. Oh and it's benefactor to the whole complex, the science center and the nature center."
"Awesome, what's all access mean Uncle Charlie ?"
"I'll tell you what it means Jackson," Dr. O'Keefe said walking over "it means that if it's Ok with your folks, the next time you come you can actually visit the sky laser and we'll show you how it works."
"Cool, like going behind the zoo, I fed the monkeys and petted a lion."
"I'm never gonna win that fight huh." Dr. O'Keefe said laughing.
"Well you never know, this is somewhat more accessible and we are scientists." Ty said laughing as well.
They thanked Dr. O'Keefe and Trish stepped up a little "we could drive the kids if you two want some alone time ?"
Amy looked at Ty who shrugged "we're fine and we haven't really had time to process with them."
"Good enough, see you in Geneva."
"Boy could that be taken as a way more fun trip huh ?"
"One day Amy."
"We'll see Trish, let's get to Canada next weekend and move on from there."
The kids spoke non stop the whole way to Geneva, about a 45 minute drive. Belhurst Castle, built in the 1800's was actually now a complex of three hotels, a spa, winery and 2 restaurants. The group had a private room reserved at Edgar's Steakhouse.
"Are we that benefathing at the zoo ?"
"No Jackson, I'm just good friends with Dr. Woerhle, think we should ?"
"Sure, zoo's are great and if it'll help your friend."
"Then I'll have Charlie look into it, how's that ?"
"Great, so the art school, the science museum and the zoo."
"Sounds like we're covered." Amy laughed.
"Happy mom ?"
"Really happy Charlie, you guys ?"
"I'm really happy" Ty said.
"I'm really happy" Maddie added.
"Me too." JT said nodding.
"Top notch proposal Papa."
"Thanks Mad."
"Shooting star was pretty dramatic."
"Way more dramatic the first time Charlie."Amy added smiling.
"I thought it was pretty neat and the horses, I felt that at Mustang Flats."
"Ty told me JT, it's always exhilarating being near them, getting close."
"We got closer but we should have gone one at a time."
Maddie nodded at what Charlie was saying "dressed alike they may have accepted us as one person that way, next time we'll plan it better."
The valet was obviously told to await the blue Jaguar as Amy and Ty were greeted by name when two valets walked up to each for their door.
"Dr. Borden, Ms. Fleming, welcome to Belhurst."
"We'll take the car and your party will be right through that door and straight ahead." The valet with Ty said handing him a card.
They had seen most of the crowd away at the planetarium as most stopped for congratulations. The kids as usual walked in ahead of Ty and Amy and as soon as they did there began applause until someone started clinking a glass for a kiss by the now officially engaged couple.
The tables were set for 10, the kids all at one table with Georgie, Wyatt, Chuck and Robin, the grands with Lou, the potters, Caldwell's and Carmichaels, Amy and Ty with John, Trish, Meg, Bert, Charlie and the rest of that crowd.
The restaurant a traditional steak and seafood restaurant added a choice of two Vegan entrée's for the night. Rather than cater Charlie requested the regular restaurant menu and they were happy to oblige.
Dinner took time and the room was happy and loud. Ty and Amy walked around through the evening and spent some time at each table. Amy looked as if she was walking on air and Ty's smile told the same story. They mostly stood arm in arm or holding hands, always touching.
As they ordered desserts Charlie shoved an envelope across to Ty. "You have a cottage reserved for the evening, your bags are in your room and they've parked the Jag down there. They'll ride you down in the cart."
"Trish and I'll take the kids home." John added.
"What bags ?" Amy asked.
"Ah, Christine sent two suitcases with stuff, I figured she knew and we had them stock the bathroom with whatever you'd need or you can call."
"Sounds nice Charlie, thanks."
"Really my pleasure Amy."
"So what next you two ?" Steph asked.
"Surgery and wedding Steph, fittings, it's gonna be pretty hectic the next few weeks."
"How's Sebastian making out ?"
"Well Mathilde tells me there are now three similar but different designs in play."
"And us ?"
"I have no idea Meg."
"I do, they're stunning, dark blue, slimming, nicely shouldered very sexy." Steph said. "We'll have to decide on length, do we want floor length or a nice mid calf."
"Blue and yellow flowers" Erma called across from the next table. "It's a good color match, odds are we'll be using Nasturtiums."
"And there you have it, a well oiled team." Bert said. "Speaking of which, you ever coming back to work Dr. Borden ?"
"I'll be there tomorrow Bert, have a nice vacation ?"
"We did thank you, and thanks for arranging a nice surgery week to welcome me back."
"No problem, gotta pay for this dinner somehow."
"Oh August, Wednesday morning, Georgie, Robert and I will come by to check the mares."
"Thanks Ty, I honestly think we're at 15 or 16, late straggler seems a little off."
"Well, let's hope for the best. We'll check and test them."
"Sounds like next fall's going to be a grand time at your place Erma." Amy called out.
"Fun times ahead for sure."
Ty stepped away and over to what looked like the front desk and spoke with the clerk. He learned that they had reserved what was known as the Honeymoon Cottage. It was a small stone building, originally built in the early 1900's and located on Seneca Lake, it had two stories, the upper being the master bedroom with a stone balcony overlooking the water. Both levels had fireplaces.
It was a cool evening and he asked that the bedroom fireplace be lit or at least made ready. He also requested champagne which at a glance he pulled off the wine list he was shown, a Don Perignon 1968 that he knew nothing about other than the name, he also ordered a platter suggested on the same page of assorted dipped chocolate fruit and then checked on the availability of room service. When they were ready they'd be driven down in a golf cart, they could return to check out in the Jaguar which was parked under the stone portico in front of the cottage.
Back inside dessert was served with a birthday cake. The group sang "Happy Birthday" and the kids gathered around for hugs and kisses. Once again Amy and Ty stayed thanking the guests who stayed to celebrate with hugs, kisses and handshakes.
Ty wrapped his arms around Maddie who did the same. "Well done Papa."
"Thanks Mad, I'll see you in the morning."
"Sleep in a bit, seems we're officially in this for the long haul."
Ty smiled at Maddie as Charlie took her place. "So it's official." She whispered.
"That we're engaged ?"
"That I love you papa."
Then with an added squeeze she let go and kissed his cheek.
"Both ways Charlie." He answered as she walked over to Bobby.
Ty lifted Jackson who hugged him. "You good Jackson ?"
"Yup, it's gonna be dad though."
"Dad it is, good choice." Ty said kissing him and lowering him down.
After hugs by the last of the crew they waved and headed over to the front desk where a few seconds later a bellman was leading them to a small cart.
The bellman opened the door and led them in. He stayed a few minutes pointing out the amenities and then after hearing that all was good bowed out.
Ty put his arms around her and she dropped her head to his chest.
"Ok Ames ?"
Amy raised her head and in one motion leaned up to kiss him, reaching up with her hands to cup his cheeks and draw him into her passion. He followed as his hands reached up so that his palms and fingertips gently caressed her neck. She moaned into his mouth, almost a vibration. They came apart slowly staring into each other eyes, they kissed lightly a few times before Amy tucked her head against his chest again and they held each other.
"Let's explore" Ty whispered a moment later and Amy shifted to his side but still kept both arms wrapped around his waist. His arm was firm across her shoulders.
"So we got engaged on your birthday, that should be easy to remember."
"Hadn't thought of that, this is nice" he said looking around and then walking her to the champagne set up.
"Ooohhh chocolate" Amy said grabbing a chocolate covered orange slice. "Where's the bed ?"
"Upstairs." He chuckled.
"Then this stuff is all on the wrong level." Amy muttered picking up the tray of chocolates.
"We moving ?" Ty asked with a grin.
Amy stopped and leaned over to peck at Ty's lips.
"Definitely moving" she whispered heading up the white circular stair to the master bedroom suite.
"This is very nice" she said placing the tray on the dresser. There was a small fire going in a nice sized fireplace a small seating area, a dressing space complete with dressing screen and a makeup desk. The bed was a canopy 4 poster with thin curtains around.
The wall behind the sitting area had two french doors that Amy opened to reveal a half circle stone balcony with a queen sized chaise lounge and a two seat sitting space. The balcony overlooked the lake, the moon almost full shone down on the water and the sky was full of stars. It wasn't a cold evening about 55 F Amy figured as Ty's arm swept up her side and across her body.
"Sip ?" He asked and she turned her head to the side to take one.
"Would you like to remove my clothing sweetheart ?" Amy whispered.
"I love you Amy Fleming." He whispered leaning over and kissing her shoulder. "Oooh look a zipper down the back."
Amy kicked the sheets off her body and lay back panting. Her body seemed coated in a sheen of sweat, the small fire didn't make it any better. She groaned standing and walked over to the French doors to pull them open.
A cool breeze wafted into the room along with the moon and starlight. Amy stepped out and raised her hands as the breeze dried her body. Ty stepped behind her and she smiled as his arms rapped around her and he began nibbling at her neck and across her shoulder.
"Ty" she whispered as her hand moved behind her to stroke his head.
"You're beautiful in the moonlight."
"So sweet" she whispered turning against him in his arms.
"I love your eyes Ty."
He looked down at her and the blue engulfed him, her eyes were bright and in the moonlight they were shining. Small kisses became more as they slowly made their way back to the bed. They left the doors open for several hours and the breeze invigorated them until snuggling, exhaustion and sleep began creeping up and Amy padded over to close them, by the time she got back Ty had fallen fast asleep. The last thing Amy remembered was Ty reaching around her body and pulling her close.