Chapter 125
"Oh Georgie, I wasn't sure I'd see you before we left." Amy said walking into the kitchen with her hand behind her holding two ties together. "Could you tie this for me please ?" She asked turning around.
"Say when" Georgie said as she started the bow.
"That's perfect I think, haven't worn one of these maternity dresses yet."
Georgie watched and smiled as Amy turned around.
"What ?"
"Nothing except you look pregnant. I mean I've seen the maternity jeans but with a blouse or jacket you really can't tell, but this." She said pointing at Amy's obvious bump.
"Yeah, that's actually the point of the design I think, it's very comfortable wearing something that conforms to your shape."
"Well, you look great Amy."
Amy looked down at her body in the dress and put her hands on her bump "So far so good Georgie, let's give it a few months though when this is the size of a beach ball."
"You'll be fine." Georgie said adamantly.
"I'm sorry, are you here for something Georgie ?"
"Yeah, just checking for anything last minute before you go."
Amy thought for a minute, "I think we're good school-wise, I don't think there's anything else. We have the dogs, Bryce has the barn for Chuck, Vi and Sarah have me covered so, nope, I got nothing, we're good I think."
They both started to the back door after Amy locked the front and were met by Maddie who popped her head in.
"Oh, you're ready, good, we're all ready to leave. Hey Georgie."
"Hey Maddie, just walking your mom out."
There were three trucks heading up because while the Toyota sat the whole family there was no way to add the dogs so they split up. Amy, Ty, Jackson and the dogs in the Land Cruiser, Betty and the twins in the Betty's pickup and Charlie, Chuck and Robin in Charlie's Land Rover since they would be heading back mid-week. Ruth would meet them at the house as would Colleen and Robert Hernandez.
Amy sat down and stepped into her boots which slipped straight on and standing reached for her hat and her newest maternity wear, a woven long woolen cape with a silk and velvet lining. She loved it, especially the velvet lined hood and the large pockets which fit her hands comfortably over her belly, it was perfect for early Spring and Fall. It was designed, hand loomed of alpaca mixed with tropical weight wool, and sewn by Wicca Stroudt. Since the day she started wearing the dark purple and black trimmed garment she had received numerous compliments. The best part was it kept Amy warm and cozy with virtually no constrictions and did well hiding her bump. She's also be able to wear it through her pregnancy if she needed to.
All three vehicles pulled out to a waving Georgie and immediately headed North towards I-81. Glancing in the back 30 minutes later Amy smiled at Jackson who was fast asleep tucked between Dodger and Duncan.
She checked her phone about an hour into the trip "Horses are stalled and fed, Derrick's on his way back with the cab, I guess we're leaving the trailer up there for the week ?"
"Yup, I told him there's no point in driving it back and forth empty." Ty told her, "there's a two horse trailer up there and Georgie's bringing the four horse."
"The only reason we'd need to trailer a horse up there, this week at least, would be an emergency and we're covered with that. It'll be nice being away for the week."
Traffic was light and allowed the three trucks to stay together for the trip up and the ride was easy, clear non snowy roads even off the main highway and into the mountains. They made good time and pulled into the driveway just about 2 and 1/2 hours after they had left. Ty was in the lead and pulled up to the house and parked followed by the other two vehicles. As always the front door opened and a smiling Jonathan Grayzel stepped out followed a second later by his wife Rosemary who both came down the steps together and up to Ty and Amy as they got out.
"Welcome home folks, how was the trip up ?"
"Easy trip Jonathan, how have you all been ?" Ty asked shaking his hand as Rosemary walked up to Amy for a brief hug.
Amy opened the door for the dogs who immediately jumped out followed by Jackson who stretched and rubbed at his eyes. The dogs started exploring immediately while suitcases were lifted out of trucks and truck beds to be claimed by their owners. The wheelchair ramp was still up which made unloading easier as all their bags had wheels and with Jonathan's help they made an easy transition in with the kids handling their own and Ty, Chuck and Jonathan getting the rest while Amy, Betty and Robin made their way into the house. Amy whistled twice at the door and both Dodger and Duncan sprinted up the stairs and past them into the house.
"The horses are all settled ?" Amy asked hanging her hat and kicking off her boots.
"Yup, all stalled and fed." Jonathan answered.
"You're pregnant !" Rosemary exclaimed the second Amy slipped off her cape exposing her little distended belly.
Amy smiled "Twin boys."
"Twins huh, how far along are you ?"
"Second trimester, end of September it looks like."
"You must be so happy."
Amy smiled and nodded running her hands over her belly, "We're thrilled."
"I guess we should unpack."
"Bring your stuff to your room Mad and then you three go check on the horses please." Amy said to the kids "I assume Derrick mashed them so please get them out into the meadow for a couple hours."
"I'll help." Chuck volunteered.
"I can unpack our stuff Chuck." Robin said "you just carry up the bags."
"We'll leave you all to get settled, the fireplaces are all loaded and ready. Call for anything."
"Thanks Jonathan and thank you Rosemary." Amy said.
"I'll carry our stuff up Ames, see you upstairs ?"
"I'll be up in a minute Ty, just going to help Betty with the kitchen. Make sure Charlie's settled please."
"You go up." Betty said from behind the counter, "the kitchen's fine, it's just unpacking what we brought and I'm almost done."
Amy nodded and followed Ty upstairs as the twins and Jackson swung around the railing and headed down.
"Make sure that outside trough is on and filled girls and there should be two bales opened."
"I'll make sure." Chuck said from in front of them on the top stair waiting for Amy to pass.
"Thank you sweetheart, you don't have to do all the work."
"I won't."
Amy smiled and kissed his cheek "I'm serious Chuck."
"Ok, Ok, don't worry about me so much."
"I worry about you just enough, you overdo." She said as he headed down the stairs.
Ty smiled at the exchange and held the door open for Amy, their two suitcases already inside the room. Amy walked by and stopped to look at the still wintry view of the Adirondacks though the leaves on the trees lower down were starting to green up and the large patches of crocuses were just peaking through on the deck while there was still snow to be seen on the mountains in view.
She sighed when Ty's arms wrapped around her and she felt his lips on her neck. Her hands covered his when they rested on her belly. She tilted her head as his lips returned to her neck.
"You know what I'm wondering ?" She whispered.
"Hmmmm what are you wondering ?"
"I'm wondering if the door's locked." She answered turning around in his arms.
Ty chuckled low "we don't have time."
Amy's arms wrapped around him, her lips touching his and drawing him in "if we skip the prelims we definitely have time."
"Amy." He whispered as they came apart and her hands moved to his belt.
"Hmmmm ?" She whispered just before her lips moved to his neck and she popped open the button on his jeans and took hold of his zipper.
"I can't believe we're doing this." He muttered when a second later her thumbs caught the edge of his pants and they dropped.
"Don't rip my dress Ty." She whispered a second before his lips met hers again and she was being eased onto the bed.
Amy sat at the small dressing table and brushed out her hair. She'd heard everyone go by in the hallway, Betty from the kitchen followed by Chuck and the kids coming back from checking on and setting the horses out. Ty was in the bathroom washing up and she got up to unpack the two suitcases.
"Hey hey, I can lift them." He said walking over and taking the suitcase from her hand.
"Ty, I can lift a suitcase."
He smiled "but you don't have to because I'm doing it." Something she had told him Chuck had said to her a few times.
He had come out of the bathroom shirtless with the top button of his Ariats undone so that when he turned from the small bench they used as a luggage stand Amy stopped him with her hand on his chest.
"Ames ?"
She smiled and took his hands and laying them on her belly before reaching up to kiss him.
"Thank you my love. Wear the green shirt Ty."
"What is it with you and that shirt ?"
"I love what it does to your eyes."
"Have I told you how beautiful you are today."
"Every time you look into my eyes or touch me."
"You're beautiful Amy, I don't say that enough."
"You're sweet, I have to check on everyone."
"And I have to touch base home, any messages ?"
"Nope, I'll call Sarah later and the rest will call with anything important until I check in. I'll meet you downstairs in a few minutes and we'll get some fireplaces lit."
"And then."
"And then we can snuggle with books in front of one of them."
"And the kids ?"
"I am not a cruise director Ty, they're kids, they'll figure something out." She leaned up one more time for a kiss "go get work out of the way and I'll be down soon."
Amy walked down the hall to Charlie's room and heard him talking through the door.
"Get off the phone Charlie." She said while knocking.
He opened the door a second later holding the phone to one ear, smiled and held up his other hand while mouthing "one second."
"That's fine Trev, I'll let Robin know."
Amy waved at the phone after finding out who was on "We'll talk later Trev, Amy says hi."
Charlie hit the end button, "Hi back from Trev, what's up ?"
"Do I have to take that away from you ?"
"It was Trev."
"Important ?"
"Not really, just money stuff."
"I think we'll survive with the money we have this week Charlie, come join the family, what are they up to this afternoon ?" She said pointing to Chuck and Robin's room.
"I've learned not to ask." And then seeing the expression on her face he added "trust me, you don't want to know. I'll be down in a second."
Amy laughed and walked across the hall to Jackson's room and knocked.
"Come in."
"Hey slugger, plans for the rest of the afternoon ?"
"Big puzzle with Charlie and Mad, we're gonna set up that big board in the living room by the fire."
"You need help ?"
"Nope the girls said they'd carry it and I got the puzzle" he said pointing at the box.
"Ready ?"
"Yup, where's dad ?"
"Checking on patients, he'll meet us in the living room, come on, let's get the girls."
Amy stopped at the next door and knocked. "Come."
"You two joining us downstairs ?"
"Waiting for Jax, got the puzzle bro ?"
"Yup, 2000 pieces, Wild Horses."
The girls got up and grabbed sweaters and their guitars. "Let's go."
"I thought you were going to do the puzzle with me."
Maddie smiled "We are Jax, these are for later or breaks, we need to practice."
"We'll drop these in the living room and run down for the board."
Amy frowned as they headed down the stairs and saw Ty still on the phone at the desk in the library. "Girls, get your pappa off the phone when you head down to get the board please."
Charlotte laughed "We got this mom, any particular message we should send ?"
"I was promised snuggling by a fire, besides, we've been on vacation for like 3 hours, what could have possibly changed ?"
Amy walked over to the kitchen while the girls and Jackson went past towards the living room and a moment later Chuck, Robin and Charlie followed them down the stairs.
"Anything we could do to help ?" Robin asked.
Amy glanced over, "fireplaces ?"
"I'll light them." Chuck said continuing to walk past Amy to the fireplace in the corner of the dining room.
Amy saw that Betty had the pizza doughs out to warm and grabbed the sauce from the fridge to bring it to room temperature.
"Charlie, want to grab wine for dinner ?"
"Sure, you know I haven't been down there yet, when we came after the wedding we brought leftover wine and it was just me and Robin's folks so there wasn't a need, Georgie and Wyatt brought beer and we just switched when the wine was gone."
"Well then have a blast, let me just get out of the way so you can open this thing."
Amy walked past and Charlie hit the unlock for the sunken door which swung open as lights turned on and the two guard fences closed the area.
"Pizza right ? For, uhm, 6 I guess ?"
"5, three more coming, one pregnant."
She sat down next to Robin who was watching her husband. Once the kindling was lit they both watched as Chuck moved it around until the larger branches were catching which would fire the logs. He stood back watching and dropped the poker back into the holder on the wall, nodded and turned towards the living room. The girls were heading back and each raised their hands as they passed him and got a high five.
"So who else is coming ?" Robin asked now that they were alone.
"My friend Ruth Spelts, who actually built this house, she's from upstate and our friends Colleen and Robert Hernandez who we met when Jackson had his last surgery. Robert is a firefighter who was injured saving a young boy in a building collapse. You'll like them all."
"I like most people."
"Because you are a good person sweetie." Amy answered. "Come on, let's find a couch for you and Chuck to snuggle on, did you bring a book ?
"All the Feels it's a romance novel. Chuck's got some dragon book. How about you ?"
"I am rereading one of my favorite books "All the Pretty Horses" by Cormac McCarthy and Ty should be along any minute to snuggle me."
The girls walked into the library and over to Ty. "Who are you talking to Pappa ?" Charlotte asked leaning against the desk next to him.
Ty was startled and realized that the doors were open which is why he didn't get a knock. "I'm talking to your Uncle Bert."
She held out her hand and motioned for the phone.
"Charlie ?"
"Come on hand over the phone Pappa, Jackson's waiting and we have orders from the boss."
Ty laughed "which boss is that Charlie."
"Your boss and his boss" she answered nodding at the phone," pretty much everybody's boss, well maybe not Uncle Charlie, but that's about it."
"Technically we're partners Charlie."
Maddie laughed "you keep telling yourself that Pappa."
They could all hear Bert laughing through the phone and Ty put it back to his ear. "Very funny Bert, we'll talk later."
Ty hung up and looked at the girls, "and what are your orders Charlotte."
"Mom wants to snuggle by the fire and you were on the way."
"And you two ?"
"Getting the puzzle board from downstairs for the living room."
Ty stood and Charlotte leaned up to kiss him on the cheek.
Maddie hugged him when he walked out from behind the desk and they both walked him out.
"Tell Jackson we're on the way Pappa."
"Sure will Mad, they're in the living room ?"
"Should be."
Ty nodded and walked around the staircase where he saw Charlie from over the counter climbing up from the wine cellar.
"Need help Charlie ?"
"No thanks Ty, I'm fine, besides I don't know if you can actually get to me at this stage with these safety gates."
"Yeah, sorry about that, there was no way around it and with kids around …."
"Don't worry, we're all good." He said lowering the door which closed the lights and retracted the gates on either side. "Hell of a wine cellar."
"I'm leaving all that to Betty and Lisa but feel free to chime in, to me it looks like a lifetime's worth."
"It's well stocked for sure but you should keep track of what you like."
Ty nodded, "I'll do that, I assume these are for dinner ?"
"Three Lambrusco and three Pinot Grigio depending on if people want red sparking or a light white. I'll just pop the Pinots into the fridge."
"Lambrusco would be new to me." Ty said as Charlie joined him heading towards the living room. The girls made the turn just as they passed and were holding a large board with legs and edges, the famous puzzle board.
"Need help girls ?"
"We're fine Pappa, thanks."
The knock at the door came and Ty patted him on the back Charlie to go on and stepped aside for the girls to pass with the board while he doubled back towards the front doors where he found Ruth Spelts on the porch with her suitcase holding a huge bouquet of flowers, mostly roses, and Colleen and Robert Hernandez making their way up the ramp.
"Ruth, it's great to see you." Ty said leaning in for a hug "come inside and I'll give Robert a hand."
"Robert, need help ?"
"Hey Ty, not getting up but could you grab the bags before she goes back for them ?"
"Sure thing Buddy, good to see you getting around on your own."
"Hi Ty !"
"Hi Colleen, welcome, let me grab your stuff." He said passing and stopping for a quick kiss.
Ty noticed their bags in the back seat and grabbed them, a rolling case and a large shoulder bag and took them up the ramp. Back inside he found Robert walking towards a stool at the kitchen counter and Ruth setting her flowers into two empty vases on the dining room table.
"Colleen is using the bathroom. Nice shack you got here Ty."
Ty smiled "let me get someone to help with bags." Texting Chuck and asking for a hand. "You Ok with the stairs Robert, we have an elevator."
"I can do the stairs, I do them at home, but an elevator ?"
"Came in real handy with Jax after the surgery, fits a wheelchair."
"That's what the ramp's for, I admit I didn't remember building one." Ruth added laughing from the sink in the kitchen where she was adding water to the vases. "I don't have to go up yet, where's Amy Ty ?"
"I'm right here Ruth" Amy said walking over with Chuck at her side.
Ruth smiled "I see you're not walking alone, Annabelle didn't mention you were pregnant. I'm so happy for you."
They hugged for a few seconds when they were face to face before moving apart and just looking at each other. "I'm just older Amy, nothing much else changes."
"You look like you haven't aged a day." Amy said "and you certainly didn't need to bring flowers but thank you, they're beautiful."
"Hi Chuck."
"Hello Mrs. Spelts, it's good to see you again." He answered with a smile "Ty what do you need ?"
"Give me a hand carrying these up to the guest rooms Chuck, Ames, who goes where ?"
"The first two room across from Betty's and the girls, put Ruth across from Betty."
"We've got a gift too, let me get it out." Robert said walking over to the carry bag. He rummaged for a second and pulled out a long wrapped box with a bow.
"Sure looks like whisky." Amy said.
"With an 'e' thank you very much. The finest Irish Whiskey on two continents. Amy Fleming look at you all knocked up." Colleen announced coming out fro behind the staircase in a dark green floral dress which contrasted sharply with her bright red hair. "Missy here just started kicking up a storm this week. She'll be a dancer for sure." She finished pointing at her stomach.
She pretty much coasted into Amy's embrace for a long hug as well. "You sure you have room for us, we passed a smaller castle on the way up that might take us in."
"It's not a castle Colleen, you'll get used to it, besides I thought they all had moats." Amy answered laughing.
"My parent's raised 6 of us in an apartment smaller than this entry hall Amy. Come, let's sit somewhere."
"I thought I heard that Irish brogue." Betty said coming down the stairs. "And Ruth as well, I guess the gang's all here then."
She passed Robert first and hugged him then kissed his cheek. "How are you son ?"
"I'm doing very well Betty, it's good to see you."
She moved on to Colleen next and also hugged and kissed her "I heard you brought us some of Ireland's finest whiskey, I'm about ready."
"You'll be happy we did, I guarantee."
"Good enough for me Colleen." She got to Ruth last and again hugged and kissed her. "How are you Ruth ?"
"Doing well Betty, keeping busy."
"And the kids ?"
"Everybody's great, let's sit and catch up."
"Living room, shall we ?" Amy said putting her arms around Ruth and Colleen's waists and leading them into the long foyer.
Jackson and the girls got up for welcomes and hugs when the group hit the living room. Jackson's first stop was Robert.
"Crutches huh, I'm good to go, just take it easy but I can ride and fish. How's Gordo doing ?"
"He's awesome JT, we saw them for x-rays last week, he loves his new school and gets to take the elevator."
"And Ann and Craig Robert ?"
"Both doing great Betty, you guys really made a difference in their lives, I mean aside from Gordon's injury."
"Well we're thrilled we could help." Amy added watching the girls greet and hug Ruth and Colleen.
"And how do you like your room Jackson." Ruth asked after getting his hug.
"Oh, it's great, you made it perfect."
"I'm sorry" Colleen started "Are you the decorator Ruth ?"
"This was Ruth's house Colleen, we pretty much bought it lock, stock and barrel." Amy told her.
"And you became friends ?"
"We did, and partners in a way, Ruth donated some land and together with our foundation we'll develop it into a Pegasus and Nature Center."
"You seem to have excellent taste in people Amy."
"Thank you Colleen, so I heard a she " Amy said gently poking Colleen's belly.
"Kathleen Grace Hernandez, and you, do you know boy or girl ?"
"Boys." Amy said with a grin.
"You're having twins ?"
"Identical"
"Good lord Amy, a blessing for sure."
Amy smiled "we figured we have all this room to fill, so, no names yet, a long list though."
"Robert, she's having identical twin boys." Colleen called out.
"Twins huh, better you guys than us, sounds like a lot of work."
"Robert, we're sitting right here !" Maddie said.
Betty laughed.
"Ach, he meant no offense girls." Colleen said laughing. "You two are a treasure."
"I really didn't girls." Robert added.
"It's Ok Robert." Maddie said with a laugh "we are pretty much a handful."
They settled in groups, Robin joined the kids doing the puzzle, Chuck sat with Charlie, Ruth and Betty and both Ty and Robert moved behind their wives on a couch and wrapped their arms around them.
Amy and Ty's group talked about nurseries, colors, curtains, cribs and the like. Colleen didn't realize that the Graingers had moved into Pegasus when Jackson wasn't even six months old yet, so that experience wasn't new to her. Granted he wasn't hers yet or a newborn but he came with his own numerous challenges and identical twin sisters just coming out of surgeries themselves and still partially in shock at the loss of their parents.
While Colleen was trying to set their room at home up for an easy switchover to a toddler's room Amy wasn't. She'd be moving the twins to a room similar to the girls, actually two rooms, one set up as a playroom, one as a bedroom with a connecting bathroom between them. They also needed a nursery set up here in the house they were in. Amy promised Colleen a visit to Pegasus anytime she wanted to get away from the city.
The other group of adults, Charlie, Chuck, Betty and Ruth were discussing both the plan for the work being done on Ruth's donated land and for some reason Alpacas and their care. This was also one of the things that fell into Chucks's and Bryce's wheelhouse, the care of the ranch's Alpaca herd, their feeding and movement and as Amy had learned Ruth being the thoughtful listener was patient taking in Chuck's part and making him feel at home discussing that role.
At one point Charlotte stood and stretched for a second before reaching for her guitar case and lovingly removing her instrument. She sat on the edge of one of the free chairs and softly tuned her guitar for a few minutes before starting to strum a few bars starting to work out was was obviously a song the girls were learning.
"Is that Dylan ?" Ruth asked.
Charlotte smiled and nodded "Don't Think Twice. We're working on it, Dylan's phrasing is weird."
"Dylan's a poet Charlie, the words fit fine, sing it for us ?"
"I can try but I'm not sure I remember all the words."
"How about you play and I sing it ?"
"You know this ?"
"I love Dylan, Donald and I were pretty upset that he opted out of Woodstock."
Ty turned at this "You were at Woodstock ?"
"I was, you'll have to take it down an octave though Charlie, I can't possibly sing that high."
Charlie smiled and reached to her guitar neck and snapped off the capo she was using.
"How's this Ruth ?" She asked playing a few notes.
Ruth nodded "I can do that" she said leaning over in her seat and facing the guitar player.
The group quieted and turned to face the pair as Charlie started with a short intro and nodded at Ruth as the song came around. Ruth had a soft clear alto voice and added a little Dylan twang to her rendition.
"It ain't no use to sit and wonder why, babe
It don't matter, anyhow
An' it ain't no use to sit and wonder why, babe
If you don't know by now
When your rooster crows at the break of dawn
Look out your window and I'll be gone
You're the reason I'm trav'lin' on
Don't think twice, it's all right
It ain't no use in turnin' on your light, babe
That light I never knowed
An' it ain't no use in turnin' on your light, babe
I'm on the dark side of the road
Still I wish there was somethin' you would do or say
To try and make me change my mind and stay
We never did too much talkin' anyway
So don't think twice, it's all right
It ain't no use in callin' out my name, gal
Like you never did before
It ain't no use in callin' out my name, gal
I can't hear you anymore
I'm a-thinkin' and a-wond'rin' all the way down the road
I once loved a woman, a child I'm told
I give her my heart but she wanted my soul
But don't think twice, it's all right
I'm walkin' down that long, lonesome road, babe
Where I'm bound, I can't tell
But goodbye's too good a word, gal
So I'll just say fare thee well
I ain't sayin' you treated me unkind
You could have done better but I don't mind
You just kinda wasted my precious time
But don't think twice, it's all right"
(Copyright © 1963 by Warner Bros. Inc.; renewed 1991 by Special Rider Music)
"That was awesome Ruth !" Amy said clapping joined by the others. She maneuvered out of Ty's arms and walked over to give her friend a big hug. "I don't think you mentioned you were a hippie Ruth." She said laughing.
"We were normal people Amy, I was a teenager in the early 60's, a pacifist and thinking about conservation and the environment and then I was in my early 20's and Don and I loved music, we weren't going to miss Woodstock. I think if I didn't have Don I probably would've gone to San Francisco."
"What about you Betty ?"
"I was 17 and we definitely trod the same mud Ruth."
"Gran, you were at Woodstock ?"
"Yes Madelyn, I was at Woodstock."
"And Grandpa ?"
"Your grandfather and I had not yet met, we met in college."
"So how was it ?"
"It was wet Charlotte."
"The music Gran, how was the music."
"The music was amazing."
"Kids, how about we check on the horses, it's obviously something your grandmother isn't prepared to go into detail about." Ty said getting up.
"I'll come too and visit with Dot, I'm all scrunched up." Robin volunteered getting up from from the floor where she had made herself a fourth at the puzzle table.
"Anybody else for a walk ?" Ty asked.
"You've brought horses ! I'd love to see them."
"Come on Colleen, we'll introduce you to the gang." Ty said leaning over to kiss Amy who smiled and reached up to touch his cheek "come along Ames ?"
Amy smiled "should we all go ?"
"I'm not going anywhere, I see horses all the time." Betty added.
"Coming Uncle Charlie ? "
"No Charlotte, I see them all the time too. I'll keep Betty company."
"Ruth ?" Amy asked holding out her hand.
"I can use a stretch and some fresh air, how many did you bring ?"
"Eight and Georgie's bringing four more on Wednesday."
"12 horses, I thought 1 or 2."
"Sorry Colleen, every rider gets a horse." Ty said, "at least in Amy's world."
"Some get 3 or 4." Chuck said standing off to the side.
Colleen stopped "some have 3 or 4 ? How many horses do you have ?"
Charlie Rodgers looked up from his phone "Right now at the Pegasus Ranch we house all told 281 horses including thoroughbreds, patients, rescues and family horses, that number will hopefully go up to just under 500 in a couple months when our new facility is up and thoroughbred training season starts. We're also also home to 491 Alpaca, 12 steers, 2 dogs, and 8 rabbits. Of course that's not counting the nature rescue, I don't really have those numbers but there's a bear for sure."
"Charlie ?"
"I'm the numbers guy Amy, it's why you hired me."
"I didn't hire you." Any answered laughing.
"Probably why I'm not on the payroll then."
They walked around the stairs and then down the half level turning towards the back entrance.
"What's that way ?" Colleen asked.
"Family room, theater, gym, utility stuff and the pool." Amy answered.
"Well, you won't be bored."
"I don't think we will, I'll give you a tour when we're back inside." She answered with a laugh.
The horses could be seen as soon as they came outside. The kids had gone inside the meadow fence and were checking the hay and water troughs. Spartan who was along as well as Harley immediately walked over to the fence where Amy had joined Ty who was watching the kids.
"Hello Spartan, would you like to meet my friend Colleen ?" Amy asked as she rubbed Spartan's muzzle. She knew Spartan would nod as a reaction to the tone of her questions and he did exactly as she expected popping his head up and down.
Ty smiled knowing what would come next.
"Come here Colleen and meet my horse Spartan, we've been together for a long time."
"Ach, he's magnificent Amy, they all are." Colleen gushed. "My family has horses back in Ireland."
Amy smiled "Spartan, this is Colleen" she said and then motioned him down "say hello."
Spartan took a step back and then lowered his knee into a bow.
Colleen clapped "that's wonderful, hello Spartan, it's good to meet you."
"Just put your hand out for him to smell Colleen."
It took a second to get his approval and Amy told her it was fine for her to pet him and run her hand up his nose.
"All good kids ?" Amy called out.
"They're fine mom, plenty of hay and the water's running clear."
"These are your family horses ?"
"Most are the family's ranch horses opposed to their jumpers or liberty horses. That's Merlin, who's Jackson's primary ride, this is Harley, Ty's horse, the girls are with their primaries, Barclay and Colton, that's Dot who's Robin's horse and that's Pal who's actually my brother's horse."
"I'll never remember all those, they're truly beautiful."
"I've always thought so."
"Can you ride pregnant ?"
"For someone like me, I guess considered an expert rider, riding is pretty safe in the first trimester but not with twins so I stopped a bit early, it'll be awhile before I'm riding again."
"Is that hard for you ?"
"Well, I miss riding for sure, it's part of my bond with Spartan and now Belle who I guess I've decided to take on as mine, I don't know if they really understand why I can't so that's hard. I still work with them but it's not the same. Riding in how I clear my head."
"Belle ?"
"Actually Isabelle, she came in as a rescue, she's deaf so she needs a really good rider and some close training. She's learning but I thought this might be too much, she's just getting used to the ranch and a new environment, well anyway, I thought leaving her home would be best."
"But if you can't ride her then what ?"
"She has a bond with Robin who's been riding her, my niece Georgie said she'd give it a shot and either Betty or Charlie will ride Spartan here and people at home, we have no shortage of riders. But like I said I work with them both, liberty training and the like so no matter our bond will stay strong."
Ty walked over from where he was talking to Robert and leaned over towards Amy "It's gonna start getting dark before long, what do you think, stall them at this point ?"
"Probably a good idea, certainly enough people to get it done. Girls, let's get 'em stalled, hand the others out."
"Can I help ?"
"Sure, you can grab Spartan here and help brush him out."
The luck of the draw brought Pal who was being led by Ruth, Spartan with Amy and Robin and Merlin with Jackson and Robert together in the stable. Jackson was on a stool brushing next to Robert who was doing his best leaning on a crutch under his left arm and brushing with his right.
"So how long have you had Merlin Jackson ?"
"Long as I can remember, Mom started training him when I was 3. He's pretty special."
"Well, I don't know much about horses but he seems to be a pretty good horse."
"Merlin's the best, he's perfect for new riders, I could teach you on him I you want."
"Best I've ever done is those ponies at carnivals."
"Doesn't matter with Merlin, he'll keep you safe."
"Doubt I'm ready for horseback riding yet."
"You'll get better and when you do, we'll be here."
"What do you think Colleen, how do you think I'll look in a cowboy hat."
"Handsome as always Robert, you do look pretty good in a helmet."
Robert smiled "I do huh ?"
"You know you do so stop."
"Do you ride Colleen ?" Ruth asked.
"I have ridden, back in Ireland my grand folks have a small farm with some horses and milk cows and the like so on visits sure but not for a while and not here."
Amy smiled "Well then I guess when all this is settled we'll have you up and Jackson and the girls will teach Robert and we'll see from there."
"Everybody rides right Mom ?"
"The world would definitely be a better place if everybody rode a horse JT."
"How about you Ruth ?" Colleen asked leaning past Spartan.
"I rode last time I was with Amy actually and I've decided once the Pegasus Center stables are done that I'll get a horse. We had some horses when I was young, my father liked to take us out, it's good family time."
"What was your horses name ?"
His name was Steel Jackson, he was all grey."
"That's a nice name, what happened to him ?"
"When my father passed we gave him away to a farm nearby. I used to visit him and ride him every now and then until he got old and sick."
Back in the stalls they watched as the kids and Chuck filled their buckets and checked their water before saying goodbye to the horses and closing up behind them. They walked back to the house together where they split up with most heading back upstairs to the main level and Amy leading Colleen and Robert on a short tour of the lower level.
"So you guys fish a lot it seems." Robert said seeing the fly tying set ups in the family room.
"Fly fishing is a big thing for us, it's good family time."
"And the pianos ?" Colleen asked asked walking over and touching the keys. "I took lessons when I was younger but they didn't take."
"Maddie's girlfriend Sabrina and her mom are concert pianists, Brin is very special."
"And Charlotte's fella ?"
"Bobby is a farmer, he loves it but I'm not sure it'll stick, he's great at math and he loves to write so we'll see."
"And the girls, any decisions about the future ?"
"Nope, college is coming though, they've bandied about law, social work, medical school, being vets, who knows, they'll figure it out."
"Uch, Robert would never leave this room." Colleen said walking into the theatre next door.
"We aren't much of a TV crew, so far we've watched one movie in here."
"No TV, how do you manage that ?"
"Chores and horses Robert, get up early, work, school, homework and horses is a pretty grueling schedule. We go to sleep early and wake up early, stay busy and work hard. It's actually not that hard to just ignore TV altogether."
"Summers in Ireland were like that I guess, my grandpa would watch the news sometimes."
"Has your brogue gotten more pronounced Colleen ?"
Robert laughed "the doctor says it's the hormones, it's always gotten thicker when she drinks or when she's got a head of steam going."
Amy laughed "I love it, were you born in Ireland ?"
"Yup but we moved to the states when I was 2. The thing is everything I heard for years in our neighborhood and family was the brogue so I've always had it. Gaelic too but no where near perfect. It disappeared in school, the nuns would have none of it but I could always add it back and like Robert says it comes out depending."
"And you Robert, you're Puerto Rican."
"Mexicano actually on my dad's side and Puerto Ricano on my mom's."
"And Spanish ?"
"Fluently, actually comes in really handy on the job and I get a pay differential."
"I can imagine", Amy said leading them to the gym, utility and laundry room.
"So you get no heating bill at all and the electric ?" Robert asked looking at the dials in the small room off the laundry as Amy described the system.
"Hardly, this house is cheaper than our ranch house to run."
"Amazing." He said following them out through the door to the pool.
"How's the swimming coming Robert ?"
"Wow, you have a huge pool and look at this view." Colleen exclaimed. "Robert look at this."
"I can see it Colleen, Jackson told me there was a heated pool, he was very excited. The swimming's going fine Amy, not really all out yet but I'm doing laps. I was never a great swimmer so the coaching is great."
"Well, I don't know about you two but I'm starting to get hungry." Amy said staying closer to the house than the other two who ventured further out to see the pool and the view.
Robert laughed "These days Colleen is either starting to get hungry or already there, what's for dinner ?"
"Pizza, home-made in our wood fired pizza oven. It's really good, Erma's cheese and our pizza sauce."
"Ok, Pizza, I'm hungry already." Colleen added laughing.
Amy started laughing along "Me too, c'mon, gotta light the oven, takes about a half hour to heat."
"So you're really rich huh ?"
"That's a pretty subjective question, I guess from most viewpoints yes but I'll let you in on a little secret, right now, in this house I'm fourth."
"Fourth, really, what order ?"
"Colleen, you really think this is appropriate ?"
"What, Amy's my friend, I don't mean anything by it."
"It's fine Robert, it's not like we hide it." She answered swinging her hand "look around you."
"So ?" Colleen prodded.
"Charlie, Ruth, probably Chuck and I guess now Robin and then Ty and I."
"Really, hmm."
"I think Charlie's company, old company, whatever, actually manages the Fireman's Union retirement funds." Robert added.
"And Ruth ?"
"Ruth is a Pierrepont by birth Colleen."
"Pierrepont ?"
"JP Morgan, the P stands for Pierrepont. Not sure of their exact relationship but her dad and later her and her husband mined granite and sandstone in Northern New York. Part of her family was in finance obviously, some in steel production and her part was mining."
"And Chuck and Robin, that's surprising."
"Chuck is Charlie's youngest, he's why we met and really why Pegasus centers exist, it's in trusts but the truth is they get whatever they want."
"And you and Ruth met when you bought this place ?"
"Ruth insisted that the property be bought by someone who would leave the area as it is, take care of it environmentally so we had to meet."
"And you hit it off."
"We did, I fell in love with her and now we're doing this project together, she's great and really embraces life."
They got to the kitchen and found Betty, Ruth and the girls. Ruth was sitting at the counter and Amy reached around to hug her and kiss her cheek.
"Having a good time Ruth ? As you can see we're a pretty boring bunch."
"This is wonderful Amy, enjoying the house ?"
"So far we're loving it. What do you think of Annabelle by the way, getting along ?"
"I like her though she's a bit weird to be honest, haven't figured her out yet."
"Well, there's the whole witch thing." Maddie said slicing the last of the mozzarella.
"Excuse me Madelyn ?"
"OK, hold up, Ruth, how do you tell them apart ? I mean I get how Amy does it, you know she's their mom but…" Colleen asked.
Ruth laughed, "I can't always but in the short time I've spent with her, well, Maddie's the mouthy one and there's some attitude there, like a vibe."
"Excuse me ?" Madelyn said looking up.
"Mouthy." Charlie said grinning "she said mouthy, and the vibe is that whole butch thing."
"Mom ?"
"You're a little bit mouthy sweetheart, you own the attitude."
"You think Brin thinks I'm mouthy ?"
Amy smiled "I'm sure it's one of many things she finds attractive Mad."
"It's butch sis, if there's one thing Brin is not, it's butch. She loves that whole mouthy butch thing." Charlie added with a giggle, "and the tats, she loves the tats."
"Tats ?"
"There are no tats Robert." Amy answered definitively.
"And you sis ?" Mad asked.
"I am demur and coquettish, men don't find butch attractive, they like to think they're tougher than we are."
"Trish is butch."
Charlie started shaking her head no "Trish is definitely not butch Mad, Trish exudes feminism, she is 100 percent woman."
"She's an Army Major and a biker Charlie."
"All woman Mad, all woman."
"I'm all woman, check my parts."
"Definitely the right parts, very nice parts in my opinion but, with a bit of butch thrown in sis, Mom's right, you gotta own it, at least for Brin's sake."
"Fine." Maddie acquiesced "for Brin's sake."
Betty had a big grin and was shaking her head at the conversation "girls, set the table please these are ready for the oven."
"You Ok Betty ?" Ruth asked laughing.
"I'm fine Ruth, but I'm going to be in the middle of this same conversation 15 years from now, but with boys, and I'm trying to figure out how I'm so blessed, glass of wine ?"
"I'd love a glass of wine Betty, thank you."
"Robert, wine ? Betty asked with two goblets in front of her.
"Beer ?"
"Beer it is, glass or bottle ?"
"Glass please Betty, don't encourage him." Colleen said. "So where are the twins going here Amy ?"
"Our bedroom is two stories, so they'll start off upstairs with us and then we'll move them downstairs when they start sleeping through the night. Later they'll get a bedroom."
"Two story bedroom, seriously, this I've got to see."
Betty laughed again after clinking glasses in a toast with Ruth. "Go show her Amy, we have a few minutes."
"Robert you want to see ?"
"Nope, gonna sit and have my beer."
Colleen shrugged and turned to Amy who smiled and put out her hand. Colleen smiled back "let's go."
As they walked past the library Colleen peaked in and stopped to look around "this is nice, you gonna fill all those empty bookcases ?"
"We just had them packed and shipped off as a donation, I've started ordering what we really need actually which is horse care books and veterinary texts. Being here doesn't mean we're not working, we're always on call. The first weekend we were here Ty got flown out to take care of a horse so having handy references is important."
"Bedroom ?" Amy asked.
"Bedroom."
They walked the last few feet past the bathroom and utility closet. "You don't mind do you Amy ?"
"No Colleen and I get it, growing up we were as many as 7 with one bathroom and very little heat. Land rich and cash poor it's called. We owned the land and it took the money to keep it. Couple that with a stubborn grandfather who didn't want growth and it makes for a harder life that didn't need to be. I'm not a big believer that wholesomeness needs to be coupled with struggle, just good works."
"And what keeps your lot wholesome Amy Fleming ?"
"We shovel shit Colleen, we shovel a lot of shit."
"Well you don't right, you've got people who do that stuff ?"
Amy opened the door and hit the lights as the sun was going down and then walked a little ways and turned on the lights to the outside patio.
"It's true, we have wranglers and trainers but I have no problem cleaning a stall if it needs cleaning or kneeling down to clean a horse's hooves. Those 100's of horses Charlie mentioned are in my care and they're my responsibility and for the most part we care for our own personal horses."
Colleen was silent following her while Amy talked and when she turned she saw Colleen staring out the two story glass window onto the large granite patio and out to the fading view.
"Colleen ?
"I'm sorry Amy, I heard everything you said but this is amazing."
"Yeah it's quite the view, wanna go out ?"
"Oh yes please." Colleen answered almost childlike. Amy didn't mind the questions, they were a bit pushy but they had met under difficult conditions and she always thought that served to draw people closer than had they met normally. She liked Colleen and Robert and felt close enough to not taking any more offense than Georgie or Lou asking.
She threw the latches and pushed the door open. It was a bit chilly outside so she grabbed two alpaca blankets that lay on a little pile off to the side. Colleen smiled and wrapped one around herself before walking out followed by Amy who did the same.
"This is just beautiful Amy, is that a hot tub ?"
"Built in hot tub, not for pregnant women, I love soaking."
"Ach, I do too and I miss chocolate."
"I sneak a square every now and then."
"We all do, I guarantee. Nice fire pit and you say there's heat ?"
"Geothermal pipes under the granite and those tall heaters over there." Amy said pointing at the tall stainless steel pillars. "There's a small kitchenette over there."
"You're blessed Amy, this is beautiful."
"Thank you Colleen, I feel blessed, come, let's look inside, I'm sure they're wondering where we are."
Amy showed Colleen the first floor, the private office area where she was putting cribs, dressers and changing tables.
"What's in there ?"
"That's the elevator."
"Oh I wondered where that was."
Amy also pointed out the hidden panel with the safe that they were converting to a closet. The safe would be moved out of this room and into a panel they'd fit under the stairs across from the library.
"Ready for the upstairs, walk or elevator which I've never taken ?"
"Stairs are fine." Colleen answered turning towards them."Not even a test in the elevator ?"
"Seems like an awful waste of time, maybe further along when I'm the size of a house."
"Twins, I can't imagine."
"Neither can I." Amy said as they reached the upstairs.
"This is beautiful Amy and waking up to that view."
"It's been nice, and it does help getting away from the ranch which is really almost 24/7."
"But you said you're still on, I guess even here."
"I think they realize that here I only need the important stuff, Ty is actually always on call and checks in a few times a day."
"Amy, uhm, there are no curtains or blinds."
"It's weird, we can turn the windows dark, like in a science fiction movie. I like curtains though so maybe we can figure something out. I guess we'll move this long dresser out for bassinets and we'll fit changing tables alongside. This whole space is weird, I mean there's a staircase in my bedroom."
"Huge feature too, maybe if it was just up and down but the whole curved thing."
"I mean, at first I figured one kid and I could see it in my head but two of everything, I don't know Colleen."
"You'll figure it out Amy, once they start sleeping through the night you'll move them anyway."
"I guess, we should get back downstairs, I smell pizza."
They came downstairs as Betty was pulling the first pie out of the oven. Ty walked over as they came down and Amy stopped to reach around him for a hug.
"Miss me husband ?"
Ty smiled "I did actually miss you and was just about to send out a rescue party."
"Awwww, you'd rescue me ?"
"I was gonna send Jackson actually."
"Ty what are you drinking, beer or wine ?"
"I'm thinking beer Charlie, we have Irish Whiskey to sample after dinner."
"Well, you can get that yourself, I'm dealing with the wine."
Ty laughed "that's fine, Robert another beer ?"
There were four hot and fresh pizzas and a large salad for the group of nine and it all basically disappeared. With everyone pitching in to clear they settled in the living room about an hour later after a rousing dinner of stretched cheese, wine and beer.
The grand opening of Colleen and Robert's gift, a bottle of Redbreast 27 was next and held with a story in the living room.
"Without any questions about how it happens that we have this bottle to gift…..." Colleen started.
Until Robert interrupted "which is a pretty safe thing when it concerns her Uncle Patrick."
"True." Colleen continued "Anyway he was able to acquire two cases of this nectar of the gods when it was introduced. With great fanfare and no questioned asked, a bottle was gifted to each of his brothers, nieces and nephews as they came along. I was one of those fortunate nieces and Robert and I decided that who better to share this with than with you all."
"This sounds a bit special to be shared with us Colleen."
"Amy Fleming, we've checked, my husband is walking today because of you and your family's generosity, compared to that, this bottle means nothing at all."
"We were just fortunate enough to be in the right place at the right time Colleen."
Colleen laughed "You know Betty, those are exactly the words Uncle Patrick uses, now come on, it's a gift, this is no way to act."
"She's right you know" Charlie added "I for one have no desire to embarrass Colleen and Robert for one second more, come on Robert, pop the cork, I'll get some highball glasses. We'll toast Amy."
"Can we please toast the fireman who risked his life and saved a little boy instead, anyone but me."
Colleen smiled and took the open bottle over to the small couch table that held the glasses and poured 5 – 2 fingered shots into the highball glasses. "No ice or water." She muttered mostly to herself as she turned with 2 in her hands to Charlie and Ruth.
"Thank you Colleen, that's a lot of whiskey." Ruth said taking her glass.
"Ach, you won't even know it's going down Ruth." She answered with two glasses for Ty and Robert. Betty was right there and took the last glass off the table.
Ty smiled and stood up at Amy's prodding "To Robert Hernandez, who does what most of us wish we had the courage to do, running into fire and ruin for the benefit of others."
"To Robert !" Everyone hailed.
"Now just tilt and pour it back, don't coddle it, there's time for that later. Sláinte !"
This was not the way any of them expected to drink. This was at least two shots of Irish whiskey they were just going to slug back. The group of 5 looked at each other.
"Ach go on, trust me."
Charlie shrugged and followed Colleen's instruction, he tilted his head back and poured the whisky over his tongue and down. A second later the whiskey settled in his stomach.
"Ooooooooooh, that's smooth and then boom huh ? How strong is that ?"
"Just under 110."
Ruth looked at Betty who looked at Ty, who, like Charlie shrugged and poured the liquor down. This was when Robert nodded and held up his drink, "Salud !"
"It's almost sweet and there's nothing but that flavor, but it's strong." Ty said putting his glass down and holding his hand to his stomach.
"One more then and this one you should savor."
Ty looked over at Amy who smiled "Girls, one of you run down to the kitchen and get a breakfast bread into the pizza oven, it should be perfect temperature by now.
"Is that a yes ?"
"Ty, you don't need my permission to drink."
"I'll go." Charlotte said standing and stretching for a second.
The older Charlie nodded yes, "well, if there's breakfast bread, pour away Colleen."
Amy laughed as they all nodded and Colleen smiled pouring 5 more very equal 2 finger pours.
"You do that well Colleen."
"I fill in at my Uncle Sean's bar when he needs, there's a lot of pouring."
Robert laughed "You should see her tap draw a Guinness."
"Pulling a Guinness is an art." Colleen said handing out the whiskey.
Colleen sat back down on the couch and moved into Robert's arms as Ty slid behind Amy and she leaned back into his. Colleen smiled as she watched Ty take a sip and close his eyes as he swallowed.
"So Ty, what do you think ?"
"I think it's very smooth Colleen, it's very nice sipping whiskey."
She nodded her approval as Jackson wandered over and squeezed in to Amy's lap.
"Ready for bed champ ?"
In response he leaned back into her arms and snuggled in. A second later he couldn't contain his yawn.
"Let's get you to bed, riding and hopefully some fishing for you tomorrow."
"Ok, wish you could come with us."
"I wish I could come with you too sweetie but dad will be there."
"And we'll be there kiddo, come on, we're going up too." Maddie said putting out her hand.
"We'll come up to say good-night in a little while kids."
"What time were you all up this morning ?" Colleen asked watching the girls follow Jackson to the stairs.
"I cheated a little." Amy said "so maybe 6 ish ? The girls and Jackson about 5 I guess to get chores done before leaving, Betty ?"
"They were out before I started breakfast which was 5:30."
"Sounds about right, 6 o'clock rounds."
"Well, I was up at 6 and didn't contemplate this magnificent Irish whiskey" Ruth said with a smile and nod to Colleen and Robert.
"Sounds like we're ready for the breakfast bread." Betty said "I'll get it ready."
"I'll help." Robin said "we're about ready too, Chuck helped Derrick load this morning at 5:00, out the door at 4:30."
Amy looked over at Betty, "You know, we'll meet down there in a few rather than carry it back."
Betty nodded "sounds good."
"And what is breakfast bread ?"
"It's actually a bread that's been passed down through our friend Sally Carmichael's family from Ireland ." Charlie answered Colleen who immediately perked up and then Amy took over the explanation.
"Like a miner's breakfast. Dark flour, sourdough, oats, dried fruit and nuts. Supposedly if you have a slice with some honey and water before bed you won't get a hangover."
"Does it help ?"
"I'll put it this way Ruth" Charlie said finishing the last of his drink "I don't really know if a hunk of warm plain rye bread with honey and water wouldn't have the same effect and it's probably mostly the water that does it, but there's no question that Sally's warm breakfast bread with honey is magnificent and shouldn't be missed."
"Sounds like your grandmother's oat bread Colleen."
Colleen nodded "that it does, probably a regional thing, I guess I'll have to meet this Sally of yours, when did they come over ?"
"Early 1800's, before most." Amy answered.
"Way before us then, probably why they're out here and not in a city."
"Is that a thing ?" Amy asked.
"Sure, we were farmers when we came over in the late 1800's but we got stuck in the city and never left back to it. The Irish had a foothold in the port cities, they controlled a lot, municipal unions were big, some left to the country, many liked it and stayed. My family's been mostly fire or police for generations."
"And Uncle Patrick of course." Charlie added.
"Dig deep enough Charlie and every family has an Uncle Patrick somewhere."
"I have no doubt of that Colleen and where would we be without them and that bottle of fine whiskey."
"I'm ready for breakfast bread." Ty said patting Amy's shoulder.
"But I'm so comfortable." Amy moaned leaning back further.
Ty leaned forward a bit and whispered in her ear "You'll be way more comfortable in bed."
Amy sighed leaning forward. Ty steadied her as she stood and stretched.
30 minutes later the group was making their way up to the bedrooms. Amy and Ty found Jackson with lights out and fast asleep. Amy leaned over to gently kiss his forehead. Ty thought better of leaning anywhere and took Jackson's hand for a second.
They found the girls awake and chatting in the dark. After knocking Amy cracked the door and let the ambient light from the hallway brighten their faces.
"All good girls ?"
"All good mom." Maddie answered with Charlie nodding along.
"Well, you both sleep well."
"We will, back at you." Charlie answered.
Amy smiled and closed the girl's door quietly and then the hallway lights following Ty to their bedroom.
"How are you doing my love ?" Amy asked Ty as he unbuttoned his shirt.
"Glad I stopped at two, it was very good."
She walked over to the fireplace and reached for matches lowering herself to sit on the bluestone ledge.
"I can do that Ames."
Amy smiled "it's nothing Ty Jonathan gets them all ready for a match."
"Then I'll get it tomorrow." He said passing her and heading into the bathroom.
Once the fire caught under several small piles of kindling and paper Amy watched it spread for a few minutes before following Ty into the bathroom.
"Untie and zip please ?" Amy said turning her back to him as he finished drying his hands and face.
"Still feels new to me" he said pulling out her bow and pulling down he zipper. He immediately slipped his arms around her and kissed her neck as she shrugged off her dress. She stood still for a moment feeling his hands move around gently to the belly.
"What feels new ?"
"Getting undressed with you."
"I guess in real life we would have lived together longer than a few months before getting married and this feeling would have been old hat."
"I don't think this will ever feel like old hat."
Amy smiled reaching over to grab her dress off the floor and then turning to lightly reach his lips.
They kissed gently and she reached over to hang her dress on one of the hooks before turning back to him. He smiled at her and she turned again "bra please."
She sighed when it snapped open and he pushed it down past her shoulders and arms and immediately reached to rub the light strap marks on her shoulders.
"So you don't think you'll get tired of me huh ?"
Once again his arms wrapped around her this time he leaned over and nuzzled her neck.
She giggled "Ty stop, I'm getting goose bumps, let me get washed up."
He laughed as well "don't be long."
"I promise, now go check the fire and warm the bed up for me."
Amy came out of the bathroom wrapped in her robe and stopped for a second to grab a hair brush off the dressing table before heading over to bed. She opened and lay her robe on the edge, she was wearing a long satin mix nightgown that stretched over her belly showing her bump. He lifted the blanket and she crawled up to sit next to him where she ran the brush through her hair as he watched her. When she was done she slid down and wrapped herself around him, her head laying against his chest where she could just make out is heartbeat, her eyes closed and his arm wrapped around her.
She shifted a few times, sighed and turned around and he moved to his side, spooning her and moving her close.
"What's up Ames ?"
"Sometimes I'm not comfortable the other way."
"Bump in the way ?"
"That and I get hot pretty fast."
"Is this good ?"
"This is fine so far, I'm sorry Ty."
"There's nothing to be sorry about, your body's changing, we'll just adapt."
Ty's hand rested on her belly and she moved hers over his. She sighed again and closed her eyes letting out a deep breath.
"Good night husband."
"Good night Amy."