i love you til the end - Lily

[Lily Parker]

She knew that Wyatt was doing her a big favor by leaving the ranch for part of the day. She knew that he probably had a lot of work to do and that might fall behind because of this little adventure. However, she appreciated the fact that he was willing to go out and do it for her. She appreciated the fact that he was trying to make their marriage work and their family whole again. Lily was going to try harder from now on. She wasn't going to be so worried about her sickness. She was getting better everyday, as well as stronger. Soon enough she would be well enough to start Flyer, and take rides with her husband out into the lands of the ranch. She would be well enough to take care of Katy and do whatever the little girl desired to do. She didn't want to push herself, but she was done and tired of feeling as weak as she did. She wanted to be who she was before she got but right after she came back. She wanted to be strong, but more than that, she wanted to be kind and loving.

Lily had stepped down from the stairs, cuddling her daughter as she walked them both to the truck. Katy was heavy for Lily to be lifting, but the young woman managed, and was relieved when she safely reached their destination. It didn't take long to strap Katy into her car seat, for things were coming back to Lily as if she had been doing them all along. Smiling to herself, and to her daughter, she made sure she was settled and then jumped in the truck. She was thankful that Wyatt had been warming it up, for when she looked to the heater, the hot air was blasting her way. Feeling relieved over that, she focused on warming herself up before looking to Wyatt with a smile. She was happy. She had had her moment of weakness for the day, but his encouraging words and his love had helped her through it. It only made her regret leaving. He would have been there for her if she had only explained what was going on in her mind. Shaking her head slightly at herself, she listened to her daughter chatting away to herself in the back seat. When Katy asked her for her attention, Lily gave it whole heartedly. It was then that she felt the truck slowing slightly, and she turned to look at Wyatt in question. It was then that she saw the horse, and her eyes widened at it. She agreed with Wyatt.

He's gorgeous. Where do you think he's from?"

She knew there were a few different wild horse herds around here, and she had made a point to watch them whenever they ran by the ranch. However, she didn't remember ever seeing a horse like that. And if he wasn't from a wild herd, she wondered what ranch he could be from. She was too far away to tell if he was a ranch horse or a wild horse, but she knew Wyatt probably had an idea. She looked over her shoulder at him as they continued their drive, and she finally looked forward at her husband's question. Did she remember Brenda? She believed that she did. Brenda had been one of the popular girls of their time, and although Lily had never had a problem with her, she was never part of that popular crowd. She secretly believed that Brenda had always wanted Wyatt for herself, and she felt the jealousy spark within her again. But she couldn't be like that. She had Wyatt, and she wasn't complaining. She figured he could see her change in attitude though, and wondered if he would recognize it as jealousy.

"I remember her. Good that she got her own place going. I'm up for checking it out if you are."

She said willingly. She would never cause a seen of course, but she didn't know how Brenda would handle seeing her back again. In all honesty she didn't know how any of these townspeople would handle seeing her back again. This was her first venture into town since she had been back, and she wasn't too happy that she didn't look her best. She wasn't into the whole material thing, but it would have been nice to hold a couple more pounds on her, as well as a full head of hair. But her hair was hidden by her hanker chief and her favorite black baseball cap. Her thin form was slightly hidden by her bulky clothes. She could do this. She didn't know if she would have been able to do it without Wyatt, but she was going to make it through this with him by her side. Taking a deep breath, she exhaled and watched as Wyatt waved to the people around him. She just didn't feel right greeting them, but she gave smiles when it was necessary. And it was then that she would see them eye her and immediately go and whisper to their friends. The news would spread like wildfire, and Lily found herself sinking back into her seat.

"Bad thing about small towns. People always stare, and word gets around fast. I feel like I'm on display."

She confided into her husband, not hearing his question yet. She gave him a worried look, not knowing what to think at the moment. As more townspeople caught sight of the familiar truck and the unfamiliar, yet familiar figure in the passenger seat, she saw them talking. The women were like hens, picking at the gossip and clucking it around like crazy. Lily swallowed past her nerves and tried to look strong. Forcing herself to sit up, she settled down as Wyatt pulled into a parking spot. She took a deep breath to steady herself, and then felt her husband's hand on her knee. Finding his eyes with her blue grey ones, she knew he could see the worry in her features. Hearing his words, she just stared for a moment, and then stared to the window, seeing everyone still talking. Giving Wyatt what she hoped was an encouraging smile, she nodded.

"Ready as I'll ever be. But if they don't hush soon, I'm throwing my hat at them."

She tried adding humor, but didn't know if it worked in this situation. Doing her best anyway, she heard Katy's huff and then smiled back at her daughter. Giving her husband another smile, she looked back at her daughter and spoke cheerfully. She didn't want Katy thinking that anything was wrong because that girl was as smart as a whip. Nothing could usually get past her, but Lily was counting on their daughter's excitement. Hopefully she was too excited to realize that something was bothering Lily. Turning in her seat, she spoke up.

"Well, what are we waiting for? Let's go get you your hot chocolate. With whipped cream?"

She questioned, giving Wyatt a smile. Anything sugary made the girl even more hyper than she was, but Lily was alright with that. It meant she'd sleep well tonight, that was for certain. Lily forced herself out of the warm truck and went to Katy, unbuckling her from the car seat and picking her up gently. She had to set her down though, for she didn't think she could hold her again like she had. Closing the doors with one hand, she kept her other hand on Katy's, not wanting to lose her daughter. Walking slowly around the truck so Katy could keep up, Lily looked to Wyatt, taking strength and encouragement from him. She figured he might want to pick Katy up, so she stood still, waiting for their next move. She felt the stares immediately, and she wouldn't complain if they got inside someplace warm and a little quieter than the streets. The quiet part might not happen, but she would be happy if she was warm. Her teeth chattering slightly, she waited for Wyatt.

"Ready? Lead the way."

She wanted to cuddle up next to him as they walked along, but wasn't sure if it would draw too many stares and make him uncomfortable. She just didn't know what to do or what to expect from the town right now, and it was making her uneasy.

[Wyatt Parker]

Word Count: 1417
Status: Complete
Lyrics: So I Need You by 3 Doors Down

Wyatt had continued to stare out at the scene by the Taimanen river. The horse's mane was flaxen and reached right down to the shoulder. The horse looked well enough so Wyatt needn't have worried that it was alone because it was hurt. The mustang certainly looked fat enough that it wasn't suffering from hunger. He strained his eyes a bit more. From the distance it was hard to give much detail about the horse.

The last I heard of any horses that escaped was over a year ago. Must be wild. But that horse is real close to the ranch. Gonna have to go out later and check if that mustangs' lingerin'.

Wyatt had to be careful of any rogue stallions that were kicked out of the wild herds. He had a few young mares that would look real tempting to a young colt looking to start a herd of his own. Or else if it wasn't a stallion, he'd just have to find out what this horse was doing alone. Next thing Wyatt had mentioned Brenda. Thinking about it afterwards he had to admit that he remembered that before and after Lily, Brenda had been quite keen on him. Some guys played stupid but Wyatt hadn't pretended to be oblivious over her flirting. It had gone no where because all through the rest of their high school years Wyatt and Lily had only eyes for each other. He couldn't wrap his head around being with another woman. He even cringed at the idea. Then again he had to laugh a little at the jealousy in Lily's reply.

Keep those claws of yours to yourself.

He joked, removing his stetson and setting it down on his lap. With one hand gripping the steering wheel he ruffled up his hair then combed it back. It obeyed the stroke of his fingers and stayed put, laying rather neatly although there was the odd edge that stood up. Whilst Lily was losing her hair his was growing and it needed a damn cut. However he'd leave it to another day. He was sure Lily didn't want to be anywhere near the barbers or hairdressers where full heads of hair were walking around. He truly felt bad for his wife and the physical changes she was enduring. Weight was a sensitive enough topic for women all on its own, but then adding hair into that equation and he supposed it was a disaster of epic proportions. He stole a glance of Lily and admired the way she braved going into town with a baseball cap. He was glad that hadn't changed. A smile found its way onto his lips and he looked back at the road, driving into town.

If you could step
into my head, tell
Me would you still know me
If you woke up in my bed,
Tell me then would you hold me
Or would you simply let it lie,
Leaving me to wonder why
I can’t get you out of this head
I call mine
And I will say
Oh no I can’t let you go,
My little girl
Because you’re holding up my world,
So I need you
Your imitation of my walk
And the perfect way you talk
It’s just a couple of the million things
That I love about you
So I need you

Wyatt had never been one for gossip and if you had to think about it, when had he ever said anything offensive about anyone behind their backs? If he said anything it was the truth and often it would be to the person's face. Much like the nurse he'd told off at the hospital the day Lily had been discharged after her initial diagnosis. His eyes roved over the people walking about town and the ones who stopped and stared. It was getting under his skin that people were being so damn obvious but it was Westin, what the hell could you do about it? There was a tell tale rub of his neck, cricking it to one side then putting his stetson back on his head of messy hair.

Don't mind if I throw my boot at 'em too.

In the backseat Katy was going impatient, oblivious to the stares because the car seat wasn't quite tall enough for her to see very much out of the windows. She was moaning about wanting a hot chocolate and for that Wyatt couldn't scold her. He hadn't spoiled her very much by means of sweets and such, but he had certainly given her all the attention that she had ever needed. And what five year old could say they owned two horses? To Wyatt that was enough but maybe he was getting old fashioned in his way of raising a child. Especially a daughter. If he had a son it would come a lot easier but now that Lily was back she would know exactly what a little girl wanted. And now he wouldn't have to be the one to deal with all the problems that came with being a teenage girl. Hoenstly he'd been scared for those years because he had no damn clue about how to face those problems. Or at least in a way that Katy would be able to handle. Then again Wyatt was versatile and any advice he had to give Katy would be able to handle and carry out. It was just a relief that he could now share that responsibility with the mother of his child.

"Whipped cream and wainbow sprinkles."

Goodness knows how Katy did but she seemed to turn her pronounciation on and off. Most five year olds were fine with their speech but Katy sometimes struggled with the "r's" and added an "s" onto any word she pleased. Soon it would be time for her to go school where she'd come back jabbering about all the things she'd learnt. Wyatt's smile broadened. He was actually looking forward to those days where she'd be constantly surrounded by her friends. Being around the ranch hands and himself all day was Wyatt's choice of how to spend his time. He wanted to let Katy explore her options. He didn't want to tie her down to the ranch life.

At this point Wyatt had pulled into the parking space and cut off the engine. It was time to face the people of Westin and get through all of their tasks. First off they had to get Katy some hot chocolate. Wyatt was just undoing his seatbelt when Lily was already out of the car, going about fetching Katy from her car seat. Wyatt opened the drivers door and got out, again having to flick his stetson up so that he could see a bit more. He closed the car door and walked around to meet Lily. Like he always did he affectionately laid his hand on her, this time on the small of her back. He looked down at Katy who was in turn looking up at them.

"Can we go nows?"

She puffed out her cheeks and frowned. Wyatt laughed and leaned down to kiss the top of her head.

Don't be so impatient, darlin'.

He turned to Lily and could see the tension bunching up inside of her. He ran his hand up her back and squeezed her shoulder as a bit of encouragement. He took up Katy's other hand, finishing up the family front and led the way towards the diner. They took up a fair amount of the sidewalk but Wyatt was nearest the road and whenever someone walked past, they walked by him. Anytime there was a stare he'd smile and say good morning. Inside he was about ready to grab one of them by the scruff of the neck for being so damn rude. If there was one thing his mother had beaten into him it was manners.

Ready to throw your hat?

He looked over at Lily, his smile broadening. Wyatt always exuded some kind of confidence and this time it was for her. He was her husband and he'd protect her from anything - including the townspeople. Eventually they reached the diner and Wyatt let go of Katy's hand to open the door for his family to walk through first. He took them over to a booth that was tucked inside of the diner and not alongside the window. He greeted a few of the waitresses and waiters who had come by him for riding lessons. Most of them were young but a few were some of the old gals everybody knew. Wyatt sat down on the seat opposite Katy and Lily, laying his stetson down on the red leather beside him. Once they were all settled Wyatt leaned forward, looking somewhat pensive.

Do you think your parents are gonna come down 'ere?

He asked. He had brought up Lily's parents a few times over the past few weeks, quite offended by their absence during a critical time in their daughters life. Then again he couldn't be so judgemental or he'd be no better than the people outside.

[Lily Parker]

Lily had the kind of heart that went out to every living creature. If she found anything stray around the ranch, Wyatt could be certain that he'd see it in the house. When Lily had been at the ranch first, she had stumbled across a new born calf that was half dead. The mother had been new, and she hadn't nursed it, and had actually abandoned it. Lily had seen it happen before. But she had gathered up that little calf and gently laid her across the front of Beau's saddle. She had gotten up right behind it and brought it home so that she could nurse it back to health. And she had. The calf grew stronger, and was now turned out with the whole herd, having grown into a cow. Lil had named her Lucky, as cliche as that sounded. The calf had been lucky that Lily had happened upon her, and she was lucky enough to survive that ordeal. She was sure her husband hadn't been too happy about having another mouth to feed inside, but who could aay no to that?

So now when Lily looked at the lone horse, her heart went out to it. Her big doe eyes turned to Wyatt as he spoke, and a little hope found its way into her heart. He wouldn't let the horse suffer out here alone. Not with the harsh winter that was supposed to be coming their way. If it was a stallion, she was sure he'd bring it back to the ranch with a bit of hesitance. But they had the wild horse pens, and there was no doubt that Wyatt had a soft spot for mustangs. Pretty much the entire herd at Silver Stag consisted of mustangs. And if it was a mare, then there would be no doubt. He would bring her home, and Lily would pester him until he did if he had second thoughts. But she was put to rest at his words. He was going to go out later. How she wished she was well enough so that she could go out with him. Maybe she could. She could take one of the quieter horses, even if it wasn't Beau. Wyatt would make a stink probably, but Lily had had her moment of weakness. She wanted to overcome that, and riding wouldn't take too much out of her. The horse would do most of the work anyway.

"Good. So, if I'm alright later, and I feel well enough...will you let me go with you? I promise I'll be careful, and honest if I don't feel well. And you've got quiet horses."

She said honestly, looking at him with her big eyes once more. She pleaded with her gaze, knowing he had a hard time with that in earlier times. Biting her lower lip, she looked away, knowing that with due time she would get her answer. But she was switched back to her jealousy when she heard Brenda's name. She had nothing against the woman now, but she didn't know what she had tried in her absence. But Wyatt knew what it was like when that woman was flirting with him. She went all out, and Lily hadn't liked it in high school. Crossing her arms for a moment, she studied the window before she heard Wyatt's words. How had he picked up on that? Sitting up straighter, she uncrossed her arms and gave him a look of pure innocence. She would play as if she didn't know what he was talking about. She wasn't the jealous type. Or so she liked to think.

"What claws? I don't know what you're talking about. It's not my fault that she couldn't be with the best looking man in town."

She muttered the last part of her statement, but she figured he would hear her anyway. And he might get a laugh out of it. Lily had always been attracted to him, both physically and mentally. But who could deny how attractive he really was? She couldn't help herself sometimes. Sighing to herself, she settled back in her seat with a slight grin on her face. Maybe this day wouldn't be so bad with Wyatt here. Their relationship was only improving, and the undying support she received from him always served to give her more strength and energy. She wasn't going to let these people bring her down, or at least she would try not to. It was then that the truck had been parked, and she had to decide if she was ready to do this or not. She couldn't put it off any longer. Westin needed to learn to accept the fact that she was back, and she was sick, but she was still the wife of Wyatt Parker. He had given her a second chance when she didn't deserve one, and he was the only one that mattered to her. Biting her lower lip again, she suddenly laughed as she heard his words.

"And I have claws. But thanks Wyatt. Your boot might do more damage than my hat."

She finished with a smile. There was the old Lily smile. The one that reached her eyes and brightened her face. Even though she was pale and sick looking, it still brightened her face. And that was all she needed. She was on the road to recovery. She had two more chemo sessions to get through before they ran the tests once more. And if they got rid of it all, she would go back every month for check ups. It was all going to work out. Smiling still, she exited the truck and got the babbling Katy out of her car seat. Hearing her daughter's words about whipped cream and wainbow sprinkles, Lily had to laugh. She crouched down beside her daughter and whispered in her ear so daddy couldn't hear.

"Maybe we can get daddy to get you a chocolate chip cookie too. A big one."

She finished with a kiss on her daughter's cheek, and then straightened to meet Wyatt at the front of the truck. It was then that the entire town could have their look at the estranged Lily Parker. Lily wished they wouldn't be so obvious and down right rude in their actions. She was still human after all, and still had feelings. All of this made her uneasy, and when Wyatt placed his hand on the small of her back, she tried to relax a little so he wouldn't feel her tension. She took strength in that gentle action, and her eyes went to him as he spoke to Katy about being impatient. She smiled down at Katy as Wyatt kissed the top of their daughter's head, and then gathered her hand once more. Wyatt could tell she was nervous, and she knew that when he slipped his hand up her back and gave her shoulder a reassuring squeeze. Looking over to him with a thankful look, she started the walk into the diner with her family. Wyatt was on the outside, thank goodness, for she didn't meet many people on her side. However she felt the stares, and she kept looking down when someone made eye contact for too long. Normally she would have stared back, but she was sick and she didn't want them talking. She didn't want them thinking that she had only come back because she was sick and needed the money, because that was not it at all. She was back because of her love for her family.

Hearing Wyatt's words, she nodded with a small laugh. She wanted to be able to trip some of the people that walked by, but unlike them she wasn't rude. As she side stepped around someone who came out of a shop to her right, she felt them brush her shoulder rather forcefully. Glancing up to see who it was, she recognized one of the men from their high school. Well that had been rude. Lily moved to speak to him, but the man was too quick for her. She was forced to pause as he spoke to her, even though she wanted to keep moving and just ignore him. But her pride wouldn't let her, and a part of her felt like she deserved the criticism.

"Well if it isn't Lily Parker. Do you even deserve that last name anymore? Lucky your sick because that's probably the only reason he took you back."

Lily stared at him open mouthed, but she wouldn't make a scene. She wanted nothing more than to slap him across the face and dig the heel of her boot into his toe, but she remained gathered. She wouldn't make a bad example in front of her daughter. Taking a deep breath, she straightened suddenly and then spoke up, her teeth clenching.

"I don't need anyone's pity Randy. He took me back for reasons of his own, and I'm grateful for that. But the next time you go accusing people of things, you better make sure you have your facts straight. I'm here because I want to be, and he's here because he wants to be. And I don't need some as.s of a man who can't hold down a job questioning why Wyatt decided to take me back."

Her words held fury, and one could tell they stung. It was no surprise that Randy couldn't get a job. He had drinking problems and who knew what other problems, but no one wanted to hire him. His eyes turned dark, but he turned on his heel, not liking the fact that Wyatt was there. He would have gone after her again, but no one really wanted to face Wyatt. As Randy hurried off, Lily turned to her family once more, and gave Wyatt a sheepish grin. She held up her free hand with a look of innocence.

"They came out, but at least I didn't throw my hat. Come on Katy, there's a hot chocolate with whipped cream and rainbow sprinkles, and a cookie...with your name on it."

She finished and walked ahead with them, ignoring the ache in her heart that Randy had brought her. Wyatt hadn't taken her back just because she was sick. She knew that in her heart, so why was she questioning it? Wyatt had more pride than that , as did Lily. It was true that there were now high medical bills to pay for, but her parents were helping her with that and she didn't expect her husband to pay for them in anyway. Sighing slightly, she entered the shop with Wyatt and Katy and was more than happy when a booth in the back was selected. She smiled at those who made eye contact, and then settled down with Katy on the inside of her. Wrapping an arm around the five year old, she kissed Katy's cheek and then released her if she wanted to be released. Looking to Wyatt at his sudden question, the surprise but question registered in her eyes. She thought a minute before replying.

"I don't...I don't know. They want to be here for me, but mom doesn't want to interfere in anything between us. She wants us to have our time, even though I've told her that I would like them here. I don't think she'll ever forgive me for leaving her too."

She finished, looking to Wyatt apologetically for bringing up a bad subject. Not only had she cut off contact with Wyatt and her daughter, but with her mother and father as well. They hadn't appreciated being ignored, but it was something that Lily had needed to do. And she had just contacted them the week she had returned to Westin. She supposed they were still trying to get over the shock, but she had thought they would come running when she told them that she was sick. It wasn't like she wanted them to, but she had thought that would be the case. Sighing, she smiled.

"But I have you. And I have Katy. And that's all I need right now."

She would remain strong. She didn't care that her parents didn't have the courage that Wyatt possessed. She didn't care that they couldn't gather themselves to come and visit her. It was fine because she had her daughter, and she had her husband. She was lost in thought when the server came over, and Lily looked to Katy.

"Go ahead. Tell him what you would like. And say please."

She whispered the last statement into Katy's ear, and then looked up. She honestly could go for a hot chocolate too, minus the rainbow sprinkles. A cookie didn't sound bad either, but she knew she had to be careful of what she ate. What she really wanted was a big ol' cheeseburger, but she didn't think the doctors would agree with that. Sighing slightly, she waited for Katy to finish, and for Wyatt to order.

[Wyatt Parker]

Word Count: 610
Status: Complete
Lyrics: N/A

Wyatt had seen how Lily's face brightened when they were driving past that horse. She had always been the one to bring in strays and Wyatt hadn't the heart to turn away not just the animals, but Lily's big doe eyes. He had a feeling that she was going to make him bring that mustang back to the ranch. He just knew it. Although their budget was tight, with the added hospital bills and drought, but the cattle drive would be within the next week or two. The cattle was their main income as well as riding lessons and other things that Wyatt had to incorporate into the structure in order to survive. One more horse wouldn't be quite so bad. Plus he had to admit, that horse made for a damn good sight.

They were then walking down the sidewalk headed for the diner when Wyatt noticed out of the corner of his eye a door open. Lily had to accomodate to let the man through but Wyatt's heart sank when he saw who it was. Randy had a big mouth and usually got himself in trouble for the things that he said. Usually Wyatt wouldn't worry but he just knew that roughed up cowboy would do something to offend his wife. Wyatt's hand curled into a fist as the other man spoke and was on the edge but Lily spoke up. Wyatt kept his eyes on Randy the whole time and a kind of smile lurked on his lips. It was bemused with Randy's attitude but inside he was proud of how Lily had defended herself. Katy had held onto her parents hands a bit tighter and Wyatt was reminded of how much he hated the influence this man had on his daughter. Randy hurried off before Wyatt even had a chance to get near him but believe you me, Wyatt was going to get a hold of that man. He was seething inside but on the outside he had a calm façade, a dangerously calm one. He unfolded his clenched fist and stretched out his fingers. His knuckles had turned white at that point. He opened his mouth to speak but thought better of his rash words. He let Lily go on about getting Katy that hot chocolate.

And for breakfast too. Enjoyin' gettin' spoilt?

Katy nodded and Wyatt looked up at Lily, giving her a look of exasperation. Lily had always been the more generous by means of treats for the horses and now more sweets for Katy. Everyone was certainly going to enjoy having her around instead of being tightly roped in by Wyatt. After all the years that they had been together and they both hadn't changed in that respect. They both stuck by what they did and had no regrets for it.

Wyatt leaned back again in his seat, his mind still seething over Randy when his thoughts averted towards Lily's parents. It was difficult to accept her parents reasons for not coming but could understand them at the same time. Wyatt grew quiet over the subject as he mulled it over, suddenly interrupted as a waiter came by to get their orders. Katy piped up with her order.

"Some hot chocolates and a cookie. Pwease."

She added on the "pwease" at the end with a great big smile, to which the waiter also smiled. He turned to Wyatt, scribbling on his notepad.

How ya doin' Benjamin.

"Morning, sir. What'll ya have?"

Cowboy's breakfast an' a big ol' cup of coffee.

"Sure thing. And you ma'am?"

The waiter was polite and was the friendliest face out of Westin they had seen that morning.

[Lily Parker]

Lily wanted to go for a ride today. She didn't know how she would handle it, but she never would until she tried. She needed to accept the fact that in order to do things, she needed to push herself. She wouldn't push herself too hard because she didn't want to set herself back, but she needed to try. Sighing, she looked down at her hands, wondering when she would be in the clear with this thing. Of course she had only two more treatments and then a check up, but that didn't really give her a timeline. If the check up didn't go well, they would be back to square one. She didn't think she could handle another bout of the hard treatment she had undergone. It just didn't seem right in her eyes. She needed to overcome this, and she would. Getting back on a horse could only serve to heal her. Horses were good for the soul, and Lily's needed a lot more healing than she would ever admit or let on to. Taking a deep breath, she exhaled, and then was confronted by the worthless man Randy.

His words had stung her deep, but she wouldn't let that show as she stood her ground. She felt Katy's hand tighten around hers, and she looked down in worry at her daughter. That man would not scare her daughter. Her motherly instincts flew up instantly, and she was about to rage about him being near her daughter, but he was already retreating. She had her fighting stance, with her feet apart and her free fist clenched. Her jaw was tight, and the anger and spirit flashed in her eyes. The old Lily was slowly coming to the surface. Here was the Lily that would fight tooth and nail for her family instead of running away from them. Here was the Lily that would put her family before herself any given day instead of giving up on them. She wasn't going to be that woman anymore that laid down in front of everyone. She was no longer a door mat, and she was no longer weak. Like Wyatt said, this cancer was breaking her down physically, but on the inside she was only coming out stronger. She contained her anger and worry over Katy, and then turned to face Wyatt. She could tell that he was furious, but she didn't want him getting involved. This was another fight and battle that she had to win for herself. Her eyes found his furious ones, and she spoke up, shaking her head.

"He isn't worth it Wyatt. I need to face them, I need to face this."

She said honestly, with a shrug of her shoulder. She wasn't going to get over it by having her husband step in all of the time. She wouldn't get better by just relying on Wyatt. She needed to learn to rely on herself once again. She gave him a reassuring smile, and then looked down at their daughter when Wyatt pushed away his anger for now and spoke to Katy. He spoke about breakfast, and Lily was surprised when her stomach grumbled quietly. She hadn't been hungry in a while, and she wasn't going to complain. Walking with her family into the diner, she settled into the seat and was more than relieved when the friendly waiter came over. It was nice to see a smiling, non-judgmental face. It was like a breath of fresh air. She listened to Katy order what she wanted, and then smiled over to Wyatt. As he finished, the question was turned onto her. Normally she would just get their oatmeal and toast, but she was feeling a little hungrier today.

"Can I have the pancake breakfast with a cup of coffee. And Katy, what do you want for breakfast? Eggs? Pancakes? You'll never survive on a cookie baby."

She finished kindly, watching her daughter for her reaction. Hopefully Katy ordered something that was slightly more healthy than a cookie. But it was true. Lily had seen Wyatt's exasperated look when she had offered their girl a cookie. But she deserved it. It was the first time they were venturing out as a family, and it was a special occasion. She just looked at him innocently yet again, knowing her eyes would help her case. Grinning now, she knew that things were going to change a little. Lily was a great cook, and she would be cooking big home cooked meals once she was well enough. And that included her famous pies. She was a pro at blueberry and cherry, but was known to make a good pumpkin pie as well. Her cakes were pretty good too, if she did say so herself. And who could not bake cookies for Christmas? Katy was going to be very busy helping her mother around the kitchen, that was for sure. As she sat there, she suddenly felt the phone in her pocket ringing. Jumping slightly from the vibration, she pulled it out and looked at the number. It was her parents.

"It's mom and dad, speak of the devil. Be right back, I'm sorry."

They were calling to tell her if they would be up for Christmas or not. She really hoped they did. It was the holiday, and Katy would love to see them. She was sure Wyatt would like to see them too. As she spoke on the phone, she stepped outside the diner so that she wouldn't be rude. Wrapping her arms around herself to keep her slightly warmer, she paced back and forth as she spoke to them. Her face held no emotion, so it was hard to tell if she was upset or not. She stopped suddenly and spoke with her hands, which was a tell tale sign that she was slightly frustrated. Shaking her head, she hung up the phone, but forced a happy look on her face. Making her way back to the table, she settled in the seat beside their daughter and looked to her husband with a slightly disappointed expression.

"They won't be here for Christmas. They're going to Florida, but they send their love."

She said with a shrug of her shoulders. It hurt that they weren't coming, but there was nothing she could do about it. It didn't matter to them that it could be Lily's last Christmas if this cancer thing went horribly wrong. It didn't matter to them that Lily and Wyatt were both making an effort, and they were really the ones that mattered in this situation. Sighing, she put her hands together and looked to him, wanting to change the subject.

"So...about riding out and finding that horse."

He had to give her an answer. She wasn't letting him go that easily. That wasn't her way any longer. She would get on a horse even if it meant getting on after he left and catching up. She knew Katy would be safe with the ranch hands, so she wasn't worried there. For some reason she just wanted to ride. She knew she would feel better.

[Wyatt Parker]

Word Count: 1139
Status: Complete
Lyrics: N/A

Wyatt was relieved when Lily had asked Katy if she wanted something else. Goodness knows how he'd get by if all he had was a cookie. Wyatt wouldn't have made it out of that door with all these food smells wafting around him. To the Parkers there was nothing better than a good meal. Between himself and his father, his mother had spent a heck of a lot of time in her kitchen cooking up a storm for two of them. Katy looked up at her mother then her father, obviously displeased at having to eat breakfast.

Don't give me that look, Katy Parker.

Although Wyatt's voice was firm his eyes shone with amusement. That face of Katy's was adorable but that would only rile her up if Wyatt said so.

C'mon hunny.

The waiter was still standing alongside their table with his pen poised over the notepad, leaning in a bit closer after Wyatt encouraged his daughter to choose. Katy finally piped up.

"Scwambled eggs and bacons. Pwease."

Katy had managed to cheer herself up and had announced her answer gleefully. Wyatt had no idea how he managed to keep up with her sometimes.

"Thank you. I'll just take these..."

The waiter took their menus and then shuffled off towards the kitchen to put in their orders. Wyatt in the meanwhile had made himself comfy with his arm laid out casually over the back of the red seat. He looked just like the Nevada born-and-bred man he was. Out of nowhere Lily's phone began to ring and she excused herself from the table. She had announced that it was her parents and Katy turned around in her seat, peering over the edge to watch her mother leave and pace outside. She turned back to face her father across the table looking confused.

It's your grandparents, hunny.

Katy didn't look too happy. The only relationship she had with them was a few brief conversations over the phone. Otherwise she had been too young to remember when last she had seen them. She certainly did however remember Wyatt's parents. He felt bad that she had never established a relationship with her only living grandparents. He could see it in her face that she was thinking about the grandparents she had known.

Baby chin up.

He reached across the table to life Katy's chin with his index finger, looking at her and smiling so big that she just had to smile back. By then Lily had come back and shifted in besides Katy again at their booth. By her face Wyatt knew that her parents wouldn't be coming anywhere Westin over the festive season. His face also fell a little bit but he had to brighten it up for the sake of both his girls.

We'll send 'em a picture of what they're missin'. Ain't that right, Katy? A picture of the big ol' tree we're gonna get.

Katy seemed to like that idea and snuggled up to her mother, putting herself under her mother's arm and holding on with her little hands. Wyatt looked up at Lily at the mention of that horse again and rubbed his chin with his hand, looking rather indecisive on the subject despite the fact that he just knew Lily would find a way to bring that horse onto the ranch no matter what.

Ya know that horse might've just strayed from the herd for an hour or so. By the time we get out there it'll be gone.

As Wyatt was speaking he realized just how much of a lost cause his objection was becoming. Those big old doe eyes of hers were pleading with him and he was giving in, rather unwillingly at that. He sighed and leaned on his hand. He looked rather defeated.

Beau may be a gentle giant but he's still a giant at that. An' I'd have given you Martha but with that leg of hers she ain't goin' anywhere. So you got a choice between Buck an' Hawk. You take one of 'em an' I'll give Scat a chance out there.

He eyed Lily to see if the prospect of not riding Beau would get her to change her mind about going out with him to the river. What was he thinking? He knew Lily well enough by now that she would still go, heck, she might even just take Beau. Wyatt had never been mown over so much by anyone else other than Lily. Well, his parents yes, but everyone else had taken his orders. With Lily she could just give him his marching orders and off he'd go, not without a fight of course. Wyatt even dared to challenge Lily sometimes but they balanced out pretty evenly. Neither of them was more powerful over the other.

I'm gonna haveta phone the BLM and see if they know anythin' 'bout this horse.

If Wyatt removed a wild horse from BLM territory they'd come down on him with an iron fist. Enough people had been fined for making that mistake if the horse hadn't needed immediate medical attention.

Wyatt shifted himself in his seat, his eyes darkening as he looked out the window of the diner. There was no one there but it served as a break from his distraction about the horse. Randy's words were lurking in the back if his mind and if Lily knew anything about Wyatt it was that his anger did not flare up easily. Maybe he was just tired and in that respect wasn't himself, but if something made him angry it was for a damn good reason. Back when he had been in the rodeo one of the bulls was being abused by cowboys that had come in from out of town and had been hired by the rodeo. That was back before Harley got a hold of the rodeo. Wyatt had never been so angry and had thrown a few punches at one of the men, which rarely happened. That was why Randy knew not to screw with Wyatt. Randy knew well enough that Wyatt's anger was a dangerous thing. He'd brought it about once before but this time was different. He had attacked Wyatt's wife and in front of his child. He did not take that very lightly and although Lily had won that fight, Wyatt had another one to pick with Randy. Lily had defended her own dignity but Wyatt was going to protect his family. One of these days Wyatt would come back into town and find that son of a bitch. He wouldn't let Lily find out or else Wyatt would get a grilling from her for doing it. However it was easy to see that look of contempt in his eyes and he had to change up his mood or else she'd be onto him.

[Lily Parker]

Lily looked down at their daughter, noting the change in expression. The little girl obviously wasn't planning on eating anything healthy for breakfast. Lily was all about spoiling the girl, but only to a point. She was growing, and she needed the protein and healthy things in life. Cookies and hot chocolates weren't going to make her grow very well. Sighing to herself at Katy's pout, she caught her daughter's eyes. Giving her playfully serious look, she arched an eyebrow and tilted her head. This little girl didn't have a choice in the matter. She was going to have breakfast before her cookie. Lily was glad that Wyatt spoke up when he did, because she was certain her daughter was just as stubborn as she was. And besides, Lily was the easy one to break. Everyone knew that. If you asked her something, she usually said yes because she hated saying no and making them upset. She would have made Katy get breakfast, but she was glad Wyatt took the front row seat on that one. She smiled as Katy caught her father's stare.

"You better listen to your father bugs. He looks serious."

She warned, reaching to tickle Katy as she spoke. She found that if you got their daughter's mind off something that she didn't like, it was better in the long run. But the little girl knew she had to order breakfast. As she spoke out what she wanted, Lily smiled, and thanked the waiter as he walked off. Sighing to herself, she settled back into her seat, glad for the rest. She had regained the energy she lost this morning because of the ride into town, and this sitting session would just allow her to gather more energy. She was happy for that because there was no way she was going to miss out on riding to the river to find that horse. She just knew that it would work out. It just had to because she couldn't see that poor creature facing a winter alone. However, it was at that moment that her phone had started to go off, and she had excused herself from the table. Going outside might not have been the best idea because of all of the stares, but she was ignoring them.

She had more important things on her mind. She had pleaded with her mother on the phone, not caring that anyone heard. She wanted her mother and father here when she needed them the most. She wanted them here for their granddaughter if not for her. Katy needed them in her life. It would give her a sense of stability, and it would be nice for her to be spoiled by the grandparents. Lily knew that her mother had called Wyatt all of the time while Lily had been gone. Now there were no phone calls because Lily's mom and dad didn't want to hear Lily's voice. They only called her now because they felt they needed to. Lily didn't think she would ever regain their forgiveness, or even their love. It was a depressing thought, but she didn't know what else to think. She tried not to show her emotions through her voice to her mother, but the one word answers she gave the woman made it obvious she was not pleased. She closed the phone shut with a snap without even saying goodbye. She felt as if she had the right to be upset. Her parents couldn't even muster enough love and courage to come and visit Katy. Lily didn't care if she needed to be out of sight and out of mind for them to come here. She would do it so that they could visit with Katy and Wyatt, and she had even said that. Her mother had told her to stop being ridiculous. But Lily wasn't ridiculous, she was desperate. She had fought for her daughter on the phone, but it was to no avail. And now she was just angry.

Settling herself before entering the diner, she made eye contact with Wyatt as she sat down. She saw his face fall and she felt extremely guilty. She was the cause of that, and she would never forgive herself. As Wyatt smoothed the situation over as he usually did, she felt her daughter snuggling up next to her. A small smile tugged at the corners of Lily's mouth, and she held her close, wrapping her arms around her. Kissing the top of Katy's head, she looked down at her daughter and spoke up.

"Did you write your letter to Santa yet? He needs to know what you want baby."

She said, looking to Wyatt. It would be like old times. They would go into town for a day, just the two of them, and shop for their daughter. And then their bedroom would be a mess for a while, wrapping all of the presents that needed to be wrapped. She wanted to get presents for Carl and Billy, but she didn't know what to get Wyatt. She wanted to give him her clean bill of health so that he no longer needed that to worry about as well. She would think of something good though. She was running out of time, but she was looking forward to the time she would spend with Wyatt wrapping presents. It was their holiday tradition before she broke it. Smiling a bit wider, she found his eyes, the warmth for him radiating from her own. She loved this man. She loved this little girl. She was stupid for ever giving it up. Sighing softly once more, she held Katy close, thankful for the little girl's added warmth. Lily was always cold. But she couldn't wait for the day ahead. They needed to get the hat shopping out of the way so they could get to the fun part. And that was picking out the tree. However, she perked up as she heard Wyatt's words turn to the horse.

"Or it could be struggling for food and water because it's by itself. There has to be a reason it was abandoned by its herd."

There she went, always thinking that it needed to be saved. She needed to at least go out and see it so she could tell if it needed help. She knew the loopholes of the BLM laws. She just needed to see the horse and she could get it in. She had worked for the BLM for a long time, and technically was still employed there. She just lived too far away to get there, so she was working from phone calls. However that had stopped when she got sick. She hated not doing any work. She would be another hand on the ranch, which was always helpful. And she would be a hand that didn't need to be paid, which was even better for Wyatt. So she needed to get better, but she needed to use her BLM training to get around the law legally. That horse was coming home to Silver Stag Ranch. Lily had already decided when her heart went out to it by the river. She saw Wyatt's slightly defeated look and knew that she had won this battle. Perfect. She felt bad, but she knew that they could take care of this horse. And then he was talking about horses. She gave him another small look. She would take Beau. He went perfectly for her whenever she used to ride him. They had a bond, just like Hero and Wyatt had a bond.

"Yes, but he's gentle. You even admitted that. He won't let me fall. I trust him, and he trusts me."

She argued slightly, the smirk playing at her lips. She was taking Beau. He may be big, but he had never hurt her in the past, and that was when he was younger. He wouldn't hurt her now. She just knew it. Looking at him innocently, she settled back into the seat and looked to Katy. The little girl was being patient, which was always a good thing. As Wyatt spoke again about the BLM, she smiled even wider.

"Well it's a good thing I worked there. I've got them on speed dial. And I can pull some strings. Legal strings, of course."

She said happily, squeezing Katy gently in a small hug against her side. In another moment their food had arrived, and Lily watched as Katy's eggs were placed in front of her along with her hot chocolate. Lily took the top off the cup for now to let it cool because they really didn't need their daughter burning her tongue.

"Give it a minute. It's really, really hot."

She warned gently, watching the steam rise off of it. She wanted to blow on it for her but she didn't know if that was crossing the line. She turned to her own plate and coffee and did the same thing: let it cool off. She really didn't feel like burning herself. Now that the food was here, Lily remembered her manners. She needed to take her hat off. Looking slightly apprehensive, she supposed she could keep her hanker-chief on. Carefully pulling her baseball cap off, she tightened the kerchief and then looked at her husband with a slightly embarrassed look. She let it slide though, and kept the hat in her lap. She didn't want anyone to see her like this, but as soon as she had removed the hat, the people who were around them started talking. Lily sighed softly and just focused on her family and their breakfast. Looking up, she found Wyatt's eyes.

"So where are we going to get the tree? And can you help me up in the attic later to get the decorations?"

Anything to change the subject right? She didn't want to go up those steep stairs by herself, so of course that was on her mind. But more so than that, the people's whispers about her hair and kerchief were. Sinking down in her seat slightly, she bent her head down, wondering when things would get better in town.

[Wyatt Parker]

Word Count: 1477
Status: Complete
Lyrics: Say The Word by The Classic Crime

Wyatt walked across the yard with his eyes down, his mouth thinned out into a straight line whilst he removed his working gloves from his hands. It was winter but at that time of year the snow had fallen just two days before and was still crisp beneath Wyatt's boots, crunching as he crossed the yard and up the steps to the back door of his home. He let the screen door shut loudly behind him and Gunner appeared in the kitchen doorway. He cocked his head and watched his owner remove his coat and stetson, hanging both up on the coat rack. Wyatt turned towards Gunner and uttered a hello in a low voice, his own unlively eyes settling on the scene across from him in the sitting room.

Katy looked up to see her father standing in the kitchen doorway alongside Gunner who in turn looked up at Wyatt, his big brown eyes pleading for a scratch on the head but not receiving one.

"Daddy!"

She squealed with delight and held up the christmas decoration she was about to put on the tree. She was three and a half years old but her expression waned as she watched her father who seemed unable to express his excitement in return. She turned around and hung the decoration on the tree then turned back to the box with the rest of the sparkling, festive things. Her grandpa was sitting in the arm chair watching his granddaughter hang the decorations messily on the tree like any other three old would be able to do.

"Started without ya son. Where ya been?"

Wyatt had by that point crossed on over into the sitting room, standing alongside one of the other chairs around the fire.

Got back early from my ride on Hero, so I was movin' the hay into the horse's stalls 'fore they come in for the night.

Katy was watching all the while and her grandpa didn't seem happy with his son's answer. He turned back in his chair but then whispered in a low voice like Katy couldn't hear.

"Stop being so damn awful and get over there. Help your daughter out."

It just so happened that Wyatt hadn't been all that perfect during those two years. Hell the man was dealing with a broken heart and sometimes neglected their daughter when at other times he was wonderful. Wyatt lingered for a moment then before he walked to Katy he put his hand on his pa's shoulder, looking down at him then at Katy. He went on over to her and knelt down alongside her.

Sweetheart, which one ya gonna put up next?

I had months to write a song
That captured who you are
But I fear I have done you wrong
Because I've failed you so far
The chord that struck, an angel fell
The sky went dark and it all comes down
The choices made, the lies forgotten
Oh, well

This is the way that I know
This is the way that I know
I would give everything for some hope
Are you different, could I be different too?
Nobody knows you, nobody knows you like I do

There's a song outside my window
And it plays to your tune
And there's a life inside this pencil
And it lives for what is true
Cause I am lost for words, the cost for her
Was way to much to bear
You're not perfect, but I don't care

Wyatt regretted that Lily and himself had had to go through those two years the way they did in order to be together now. He wished the transition from being the couple they were back then to being what they were at the present had been smoother. Yet if those two years gave them a lifetime of happiness after this then Wyatt wouldn't negotiate the price again. They came out better for it and he was glad that his wife came out stronger too. She was the one that had needed help through those years and although she hadn't chosen to bring him along on that journey, she needed him now. He could fulfull his duty as a husband but we all know that no matter what they do, they always feel like they fail their family. The one good thing about that was that he kept striving to be better, and that always had a good impact on his family.

"No."

Katy replied earnestly, looking up at them with her doe eyes surrounded by long lashes. They reminded Wyatt so much of Lily's eyes and they no longer served as a reminder that she was gone. Wyatt looked at Lily when she wasn't looking at him and he admired her from their distance across the table, his expression softening until the spell was broken by Katy's voice which brought him back to reality.

"I'm still thinking abouts what I wants."

Katy drew invisible circles on the table as she spoke and didn't look up until the waiter arrived. She looked deep in thought and was obviously concentrating on what she wanted for christmas.

If it was abandoned by the herd.

Wyatt challenged, smiling at the fact that Lily had an instant need to protect any 'lone animal she got her sights on. He was glad that they had the space of the ranch and not a tiny apartment in the city, or else they'd never have enough space for all the animals his wife brought in. Wyatt had only once brought in a stray and that had been an injured doe. He'd sent it straight out into the wild once it was able to walk again and had left Lily to do all the naming, petting and loving. Wyatt did the work and Lily did the love.

Wyatt didn't even bother to argue with anything else that Lily said because he could see he was going to go nowhere with it. Wyatt rubbed his shoulder and winced. He had taken his share of falls at the rodeo and that hadn't gone without consequence. Often after he'd come back from something as saddle-orientated as a cattle drive he'd needed Lily and one of her massages. He figured with all the torture he'd put his back through he'd land up with a walking stick by sixty. But he was damn stubborn enough to put that off until seventy. No proud ranch man wanted to hobble around with a walking stick. Although it would prove useful if Hero ever gave him crap. If only he had had that walking stick when Hero had thrown him off after his ride with Finn. Thinking about the kid Wyatt frowned.

I don't think I told Finn that he's invited over for christmas dinner. Just went straight outta my mind.

He admitted, looking obviously irritated by his negligence. He had grown fond of Finn over the last few weeks and Love Me Sweet had to. The palomino was coming around but it was a slow transition into ranch life for that horse. It was just then that the waiter arrived with their food and set it down in front of them. He'd served Katy and Lily first then went back for the third dish that was Wyatt's. Wyatt eyed the piping food and although it looked so temptingly warm he just knew he'd burn his mouth to hell and back if he tucked into any of it the moment it was set down in front of him. Once his food arrived Wyatt blew on his coffee, holding it up to his lips and tentatively taking a sip. Not bad at all. He tipped a bit more of the coffee to his lips then feeling satisfied that his food had waited long enough he took his first bite. Lily had asked him a question and he finally answered, setting his knife down and hovering his fork over his plate with his forearm resting on the table. He'd been taught no elbows on the table.

Someone's set up a whole section 'round the end of town. Whole bunch of pine trees he'd collected up in the mountains. Only place we can get 'em an' they don't look half bad.

All the while he'd been talking his eyes roved around the other tables. He stopped and looked at one particularly obvious conversation. It was two women he kept on a name-basis, eyeing the southerners, of which he had never really liked. The kind with a high pitched voice that drilled into your ears.

'scuse me, mind keeping your damn conversation to yourself?

The women muttered some kind of apology but looked highly offended. They hadn't expected Wyatt to actually say anything. They all knew not to mess with Wyatt Parker but they damn well tried to mess with the people around him and that was just not going to pass with him. Looking back at Lily he reached across for her hand, picking it up and kissing the back of her hand affectionately. He did it often and it was his way of saying things were okay.

"I'm watching you!"

Katy had piped up, now leaning over her mother to watch the women who's eyes had wandered over to their table again. Wyatt laughed aloud, quite amused that Katy was standing up for her mother with such spunk.

Got your own little security woman right there.

Wyatt joked, giving Lily a sympathetic look but one that encouraged a bit of humour instead of worry.

An' yeah I'll help you get those decorations. Who the heck knows what's crawlin' up there. Haven't been up since last year when we put the decorations back.

[Lily Parker]

Lily loved the holidays. It had been hard the two years without her family because they had had such a tradition. She hadn't felt right doing it without them, so she hadn't. Her small neighborhood had known her as sort of a scrooge when it came to Christmas especially. She put no decorations up, and there was never a tree in her apartment. She got Noah his yearly toy, but that was about it. They knew she was a sweet woman, but they didn't know that much about her. They figured she had just had a bad experience with the holiday and let it be. She always politely refused their invitations to the holiday dinner, and had instead taken Noah out on walks Christmas Eve and Christmas Day. While Wyatt was struggling with Katy and his father back at the ranch, Lily had no one to struggle with except for Noah. It was her own fault, she knew, but it was hard. She didn't have anyone to push her back up, even if that was a decision she had made on her own. It tested her strength, and it showed her just what she was really capable of.

In a way, it had shown her who she could be. It had shown her that she could get through hard times, and it would be even easier with people around her that loved her. If she could do it by herself, then she should be able to do it with support. Lily needed to remember that. The loneliness that she had went through during those two years was awful. She hadn't thought about the consequences of her actions, and she had wanted to return to Wyatt as soon as she had hurried off in the middle of the night. She didn't know what she was doing at the time, but that indecisiveness had led her to her decision. Until she was sure, she couldn't be there for her family. She was too weak, and she didn't want them to see her like that. Sighing softly, she looked down as Katy started speaking. Her eyes widened in mock shock, and she turned toward the five year old and leaned down. Lily was so serious when it came to lists to Santa.

"What are you waiting for bugs? We have to make one!"

She said with a small laugh and a smile, resting her hand gently on top of Katy's head. She leaned back up and looked over to Wyatt with a shrug of her shoulders. She supposed they would have to go out one day and just wing it. She wanted Katy to have a mountain of presents to open on Christmas day. She wanted her to be so shocked and happy that Lily and Wyatt would feel that happiness. She wanted to spoil the little girl because she deserved to be spoiled after all that she went through. Looking down at her hands for a moment, she looked up as Wyatt was yet again negative. Lily feigned exasperation at his words, but she knew he was right. The horse might not be abandoned. It could have just ventured off for a momentary break. Lily had to accept that, but she wasn't ready to until they were completely sure.

"Oh fine. You're right. If it was abandoned. But we need to see it first."

She said, looking at him after a moment. He couldn't argue with that. It wouldn't hurt anything to go and look for the horse. And it would be nice for Lily to get out of the house and off of the ranch. She needed a change from her normal routine for now. Sighing once more, she looked down to Katy, and then back up to Wyatt as he mentioned Finn. Finnegan was another case that Lily's heart had gone out to. The boy had appreciated Lily's company because she was a woman. Finn didn't trust men, but he did trust Wyatt. Lily had noticed that Finn was growing closer to Wyatt, which made her extremely happy. However, it was another lone person case that her heart was melting for. She knew Finn was older, but that didn't mean he couldn't become a part of the family. She was already treating him like he was basically. She had managed to grab him new clothes on one of the many trips to the hospital before her chemo. She made him meals and made him eat in front of her so she knew he was eating. He was falling into the routine of Silver Stag, and he was doing well with the palomino rescue he was working with. Lily knew Finn was out there everyday with Sweet, and she was proud of him. As Wyatt spoke up, she nodded.

"Maybe find him and ask him when we get back? We should have brought him today."

She said quietly, beating herself up over it at the moment. She knew Finn enjoyed working with the ranch hands and with the horses, especially now since his wrist was almost completely healed. But it would have been nice for him to get out for a day. Thinking about how she would word her statement to Wyatt, she spoke up with a bit of hesitancy. He would probably get it as soon as she said something though.

"So. About Finn. Do you think he'll ever find a family?"

There. That wasn't that bad of a statement. It didn't mean anything, but Wyatt knew her like he knew the back of his hand. She was certain he was going to understand where she was going with this statement. She was already looking at what they could get him for Christmas. Certainly new clothes, and maybe a few things for Sweet. He would love to have stuff to call his own. But she was brought out of her thoughts as Wyatt spoke up about the Christmas trees. Smiling, she nodded softly. They had a big sitting room. She wanted to get the biggest tree that they could get inside. And she was sure that Wyatt and Billy and Carl would be sniping at one another as they all worked to get it into the house. It was another Christmas tradition. Smiling softly, it suddenly faded as Wyatt spoke up. Lily had heard the conversation between the two women, but she had been trying to ignore it. As he spoke up however, she was forced to slide down in her seat. She hated this. She hated losing her hair, and she hated being sick. She was certain that the rumor of her being sick would spread like wildfire, and she had no choice but to sit along for the ride. It was all that she could do for now. As Wyatt reached for her hand, she leaned forward a little, knowing what was coming. As he kissed her hand, she smiled softly, and gave him a thankful look. She didn't know what she would do without him. It was then that Katy had leaned over her and spoke up. Lily hadn't known what she was doing at first, but when she heard Katy's words, she burst out in laughter. She supposed she was safe now. Taking Katy into a hug, she snuggled her daughter close.

"I don't know what I'd do without you two."

She said, kissing Katy's cheek before releasing her. She loved her little girl more than anything, and her love for Wyatt was unmatched by any other emotion. Looking to him, she caught the sympathetic look and shrugged her shoulders. What could she do? She was trying to hide her embarrassment, but it wasn't going so well. She hated that she had made such a scene in town already.

"Next time I'll just wear a bag over my head."

She finished, trying to be humorous. It was all that she could do right now. Smiling softly, she listened to Wyatt's words at helping her out in the attic. She was smiling ear to ear now at the fact that she wouldn't have to venture up into that disgusting attic. Of course she would do it if absolutely necessary, but Lily had that ridiculous fear of spiders. You could put her in front of a crazed Nokota stallion and she would hold her ground, but dangle a tiny eight legged creature in front of her and she'd have a melt down. Wyatt had always found it hilarious, and Lily ended up laughing along with him. She didn't just saw ew....it was more of a shriek and a run away to the other room. She just didn't like them. They were just...wrong in so many ways. Shaking her head now, she looked pleased.

"Good. Better you than me. But did you have to say crawlin? It gives me the heeby jeeby's. Spiders crawl, Wyatt. Spiders."

She finished seriously, looking at him and using her old statement of heeby jeeby's. She shuddered involuntarily because of the thought of spiders and shot him a look. He had to say crawlin' in that accent of his that made her heart melt. Cowboys. She had a weakness for him, what could she say?

[Wyatt Parker]

Word Count: 816
Status: Complete
Lyrics: N/A

Yes ma'am.

Wyatt responded, peering at Lily mischeviously over cup as he took another sip at the steaming coffee. He hadn't feigned exasperation like Lily had but he was thinking it. He'd have a whole herd of wild horses on ranch if Lily could take in every case that she wanted. Wyatt admired Lily for her selflessness in that regard yet he had to draw the line somewhere. Bringing in kids was a whole other story. Wyatt was quite happy with just one child but there was always that voice in the back of his head. He was a family man and expanding their family one day would only bring more happiness into their world. A son perhaps. Now there was Finn. Finn had come from a whole different background but somehow he was slotting into their lives and fitting in quite well. Wyatt was fond of the young man and Lily had seen that.

If he wants to I'll arrange a trip into town. Haven't brought him up 'ere many times.

Wyatt said thoughtfully, stuffing another piece of his meal into his mouth. Katy had never been able to understand how he managed to get so much food into hi mouth compared to her dainty little pieces. Wyatt watched as Katy tried to put a bigger piece of food in her mouth. He laughed as well, shaking his head and handing her a napkin as the food spilled out onto her plate as she struggled to stuff the food into her mouth. Just as he tucked back into his food Lily started talking with a "so". That was hardly ever good. He was chewing when Lily finished and Wyatt looked at her suspiciously.

Can't say.

He said strategically, not giving away that the prospect had seemed appealing to him. Wyatt would hardly ever admit his admiration for the boy because he thought Finn wouldn't want to stay. It was just something Wyatt would do and he was being stubborn about it all. Eventually Wyatt ended up smiling as his eyes dropped to his plate, manouvering some food around and onto his fork.

What am I going to do with you?

He looked up at Lily, chuckling and going on to eat his food. That's when the stares had seemed to get to Lily and Wyatt was immediately defensive. He couldn't stand it when people were obviously rude but he'd set himself up in Westin. Of course there was going to be gossiping but he had never figured that he'd be anywhere near the talk of the town at some point. He had been raised in Westin however and was well adapted to dealing with anyone who crossed the line. Those two women had been the first in Wyatt's line of sight and had been the first to get his bark. Randy would suffer worse than them but for now, Wyatt didn't want to think about it. This trip was for Lily in order to get her some hats whilst she struggled with her hair loss and all the other affects of chemo. Wyatt had reached out to take her hand and kiss it. Then Katy had piped up. Wyatt laughed and had no more interest in the two women. They were in the back of his mind already and he only had eyes for his two girls. Wyatt winked at Katy and she smiled rather smugly whilst being hugged affectionately by her mother.

Next time I'll bring my bigger boots.

Katy wouldn't get the joke but Wyatt looked at Lily with mischevious eyes again. He picked up his coffee after setting down his fork and took a rather large gulp of it. It warmed his core and fended off the bite from the cold, not that it wouldn't come back once they were outside, but for now it kept him pretty cosy in that little booth. He laughed some more when Lily spoke up about her fear of spiders.

I'll arm you with some bug spray.

Of course the last time he had done that Wyatt had gotten some of that in the face after Lily spooked at the sight of a spider and sprayed the bug spray wildly. That had earned him a trip to the hospital and a whole night of throwing up. That bug spray was some nasty stuff.

This time aim for the spider.

Wyatt took another sip of his coffee but nearly choked on it by laughing, remembering how mortified she had been. He had to cough and hit his chest with his fist, still grinning. He looked fondly up at Lily and damn that look in his eyes was enough to melt any heart. Sure a cowboy melted a girls heart, but this city girl melted Wyatt's.

Nearly set to go?

He eyed their nearly empty plates and then watched Katy struggle to cut her last piece of bacon.

[Lily Parker]

Seeing that mischevious look on Wyatt's face made her smile. She loved this man. She loved every single thing about him and she wanted him to know that, and understand that. She needed him just like she needed Katy. Being without them for so long had been an idiotic mistake, and she regretted it each and every day. She couldn't change what she had done, but she honestly didn't know how she had survived without them. They were her family. They were the only ones who were here for her now when her own parents couldn't gather the courage and at least see her once while she was sick. What if she didn't survive this? What if it didn't go into remission and she had a relapse that was even worse than this first fight? What if the chemo didn't work? What if the cancer had spread further than they had all thought? The questions ran through his mind repeatedly and without fail, every day. She didn't know if she could stand much more of them. Those questions were what was making this fight hard for her. The what ifs.

Shaking her head slightly at herself, she peered over her coffee mug at Wyatt. She nodded as her husband spoke of talking to Finn about coming to town.. She knew Wyatt cared for Finn. She knew he cared for that boy as soon as she saw the two together. It wasn't very hard to see. Finn trusted Wyatt, and she knew that the boy looked up to him as well. He wanted Wyatt to accept him and to like him, and to appreciate him. It was what the boy needed. He needed to feel loved and as if he had a place to belong. Lily wanted that place to be Silver Stag, for forever. She wanted to extend their family, she really did. They were little now, but she wanted to have another child with Wyatt. However, Finn was there now. She loved Finn already, and she was already treating him like their son. She had bought him new clothes and new everything, but there was more to it than that. She offered him support and advice, and made sure that above all else, he was happy here. No matter what it took, she wanted that poor boy to have some happiness in his life. And then Wyatt surprised her with his next comment. She choked a little on her coffee because she didn't think he'd pick that up.

"I have no idea what you're talking about."

She stated, knowing what he was insinuating through his comment about what was he going to do with her. She gave him an innocent smile, letting him know that she was completely oblivious to his accusation. It was then that the old women had spoken up about her appearance. She had heard their comments, like what's with that hankerchief, is she even eating? That girl looks like skin and bones, and I've seen her look better. But most of all, there were comments about how she came back just so Wyatt could help her financially with whatever mess she had gotten herself into. It wasn't the truth. Lily would never ask him for money. She worked hard the two years she was gone, and kept herself going. Funds had been tight for her, but she had done it. She was proud of herself for making it too, even though it had been an awful choice. Sighing slightly, the young woman sat still in silence until she heard Wyatt's comments. Laughing slightly, she shook her head.

"What were you thinking not bringing them this time? Slacker...I swear."

She finished with a smile, and then looked down at Katy. The little girl might be confused over what her parents were talking about, but Lily thought she'd be too preoccupied with matching the size of her bites to her father's. Smiling once more, she looked at her own plate. She had been able to eat half of the pancakes, which was really good for her appetite lately. Pushing her plate away, she brought her coffee mug closer to her, drinking the warm liquid thankfully. It was just what she needed. It was then that Wyatt spoke of giving her bug spray, and she sputtered slightly with the sip she had just taken. She remembered all too clearly what had happened the last time, and she had felt so guilty and awful because of it. Putting her mug down, she gave him a playful look as he told her to aim for the bugs. When he laughed and hit at his chest to help himself through choking on that sip of coffee, she spoke up.

"I tried aiming for the spider. It was just coming straight for me...like it knew I had the spray. I had to kill it before it got to me and you just happened to be in the way."

She mentioned with a shrug of her shoulders, although she was smiling. Laughing a little, she looked to him as he spoke about getting ready to leave. She regained her composure and nodded, standing up after the bill had come. Taking Katy's hand, she made sure their daughter was bundled up once more and then walked with her and Wyatt outside of the diner. Lily just wanted a nice cowboy hat. It would be perfect for what she needed, and she wouldn't look out of place wearing it around here. She spoke to Wyatt about it, knowing he'd understand.

"I just want a stetson, I think. Or something like my old one. It'd be perfect, and it wouldn't look too out of place with the kerchief either."

She said honestly, trying to be optimistic about this whole hat thing and being bald. She could get past it. Her hair would grow back. She just had to keep telling herself that.

[Wyatt Parker]

Word Count: 874
Status: Complete
Lyrics: N/A

Wyatt had never thought of Lily being with another man. Sure, he wasn't the jealous type but every now and again he couldn't help but feel it creep up his back. When that happened it bothered him to no end. Another man with his hand on his wife? God help the man that did that, no matter if it had been Lily's provocation or the man's. It could have been possible for the two of them to move on but it would have been painful. If two years had been enough to bring them to their knees then what the hell would five years have been? Ten even? No, no. Wyatt couldn't imagine living through that let alone with another woman. Screw them all. Wyatt loved Lily til the end and then beyond that. Whatever happened when they were five foot under, he would love her still.

Wyatt's knowing stare challenged Lily when she spoke up about not knowing what he was talking about. He had held the fork in front of him whilst staring her down with that smile beginning to creep up onto his lips. She knew exactly what he was talking about and Wyatt was putting her on the spot for it. It was times like this that he really loved Lily. For any flaws she had, she made up with everyone else that made up Lily Parker.

I'm gonna need a bigger ranch if you get your way.

Wyatt laughed it off but Lily had triggered a few thoughts in him that Wyatt had never really paid attention to before. They would bother him any time he had some quiet to himself. He could be pretty peaceful when he was alone but at other times his thoughts would eat him from the inside out. That's how it always went. Wyatt felt things strongly on the inside before he ever expressed them on the outside. That's what made it hard to communicate with him sometimes. You had to give any woman credit if she could handle a rancher and get through to him.

Oh, 'scuse me. Did my face get in the way of your bug spray?

He managed to speak whilst holding his fist against his chest, trying to clear his throat after laughing whilst drinking his coffee. Not a good combination. Wyatt's smile grew a bit broader when Lily had defended herself, remembering again how he'd initially made her feel guilty then given her the better part the of sympathy afterwards. He always put Lily first over his own ailments and after Katy arrived, she'd been put up there right alongside Lily. The two best girls a man could have in his opinion.

Wyatt motioned to the waiter for their bill and then went on to eat up the last few bites of his breakfast. He laid his knife and fork down on the plate, sitting with coffee in hand until the bill arrived. He put the mug down and opened up the tab, checking down the list of things he was paying for. He leaned back in his seat to retrieve his wallet from his jeans pocket. He slapped a few notes down on the bill along with a tip then closed it up, sliding it over to the edge of the table. He moved out of the booth and waited for Lily and Katy to slide out first before passing. Once again he opened up the door for them, thanking the waiter on their way out. He had grabbed his stetson off of the seat and was pulling it on as they exited the diner. He pulled it snug onto his head of messy hair.

A good ol' stetson again?

Wyatt looked down as Katy grabbed for his hand, looking straight ahead at a few of the cars driving on the small roads of Westin.

Sure you ain't avoidin' Brenda with her fancy hats?

Wyatt joked and with a smile that said he knew he was pushing some buttons he looked down the row of shops lined up on the sidewalk with their doors all closed to keep out the winter breezes that flew paper into a mess and froze the inside of their shops.

Round 'em Up has some good hats. Sure you'd appreciate some good ol' fashioned Cowboy equipment.

Wyatt's eyes roved over the faces on the sidewalk then to the black baseball cap that seemed attached to Lily's head. Could he ever recall a time seeing her not wearing a baseball cap? Well, apart from the times when she'd worn a stetson.

Wouldn't mind gettin' a bigger halter for Ace.

Ace had been born not long after Lily had left and was the second youngest of all Wyatt's horses. The only sign that the colt had Appaloosa bloodlines were the little black dots on a white sock he had on his hind leg.

He's probably the reason for all of Martha's troubles. That colts got more energy than he knows what to do with. Think he'll be a good workin' horse, though.

Wyatt rambled a bit, looking at the windows of shops then back at Lily. He looked a bit sheepish when he realised he was just talking without any real point to it.

[Lily Parker]

Lily could never love another man. There was just no possible way. Wyatt held her heart, and he had since high school. She had left, but that didn't mean that her love for him had. She had just needed time. It had been selfish, but it had brought her back. It had brought back an entirely new Lily. She hadn't changed in personality, except that she was much stronger than she ever had been before. However, her appearance had changed dramatically. Her hair was blonder from the amount of time she spent outside in the sunlight at the BLM, and she had lost a lot of weight. She hadn't looked too thin when she had first arrived, but she was bordering that line now what with the chemo and everything like that. She tried to eat, but it was proving to be a lot easier said than done. Eating usually made her nauseous, and she was surprised that her meal was sitting well with her now. She would not ruin this day with her illness.

She looked up as she felt Wyatt's eyes on her. She knew that look. That look that saw right through her. Giving him a small smile, she heard his words and shook her head. How could he read her like that? But it was true. Finn was in his forever home. Lily didn't have the heart to send him back when the TTI program was over. That kid deserved to be here, and she was already attached to him. She loved him like a son, and wanted him to be a part of this family. She couldn't shuffle him back. He didn't deserve that. He deserved stability and a family that loved him, and this was that family. She knew Wyatt cared for the boy, and that was saying a lot. Wyatt didn't give his heart to just anyone. He kept it locked tight inside that big chest of his, and Lily barely saw it come forward. But with Finn he was different. Lily had caught the pride in her husband's eyes multiple times. Biting her lower lip, she gave yet another innocent look.

"It's just big enough for now. Besides, you can't deny you care about him."

She spoke outright, knowing it was the only way that she could catch him. If he refused, she would call him out on it again. Wyatt enjoyed being around Finnegan, and Lily noticed that more than anyone else. Sighing to herself, she slumped back in her seat, and then heard her husband's next words. Grinning, she nodded slightly.

"As a matter of fact it did. You should be more careful next time hun."

She said with a wide smile. She was happy. Lily was more happy than she had been in a long time. Things with Wyatt weren't perfect, but they were heading that way. They still had some kinks to work out in their newly re-founded relationship, but Lily was working on her flaws. If anything this sickness was bringing them closer together, and she appreciated that if not anything else. She loved Wyatt, and that much was obvious to anyone who looked their way. She wanted this to work, and wouldn't stop trying until it did. She already felt like they were alright again, but she couldn't be sure. She wanted to make sure that Wyatt was comfortable in this relationship as well. It was important to her because she was the kind of person that needed to see everyone else happy. She didn't care about herself nearly enough as she should, especially now. She cared about Wyatt and Katy more than herself. She would always put them first from now on. Taking a deep breath, she exhaled and then stood as Wyatt did, taking their daughter's hand as she went along.

"Yeah, a stetson. Got a problem?"

She questioned playfully, reaching for his hand as they walked out of the restaurant and into the cold. With Katy by her side, she cuddled in next to Wyatt as they walked along, needing his warmth. She always got cold when she had been here before her sickness, but now it was ten times worse. She needed his warmth to stop her chattering teeth, and completely ignored the stares from the people walking by. She had her daughter, and she had her husband. That was all that mattered to her now, and they could stare all that they wanted. She walked along rather comfortably until she heard Wyatt's words. She pulled away slightly and looked up at him, swatting at his arm playfully, and gently.

"You sir, better watch it. I plan on walking right by her fancy little shop actually. We just don't have to go in."

She said pointedly, and then walked with him again. As he spoke about the western shop, she nodded her head. She loved anything with western things in it. She had an entire list of things that she wanted to get for Flyer, but she would wait until she was better. She needed to be sure that they had the money before anything else. The medical bills were off the roof, and it was a good thing they had good insurance. It was also good that her parents were doing one thing and helping to pay the medical bills. It showed they cared, she supposed. However, if they weren't giving her money and instead coming to visit she would be all the more grateful. Looking down to the ground for a moment, her spirit wilted until she heard her husband chattering away beside her.

"You always have the best working horses, so I'm sure he'll be wonderful. He's a fine looking thing. Poor Martha though. She does seem to have a lot to handle with him."

She finished honestly, getting involved in the conversation. She didn't mind talking about the ranch or the horses. She actually loved getting involved. She wanted to start helping out, and she was going to start with that bunkhouse first. It was disgusting, and needed a good, solid cleaning. It also needed more furniture and decorations. It served its purpose, but that was about it. She had hated it when she stayed that one night in it before Wyatt had seen her for the first time. Trying to ignore that now, she waited for her husband's response.

[Wyatt Parker]

Word Count: 1059
Status: Complete
Lyrics: N/A

Wyatt had considered what Lily said to him. He could read her like a book and she had him wrapped around her finger. What Lily said was actually true and the statement got under his skin. He did have a big enough ranch to house another person as well as another horse. He might have to expand the paddocks and think about adding on another few stalls but for now there was just enough space. Thinking about that horse they'd seen out by the river, he had nineteen horses in his barn right now and with Dee Boy sharing his dam's stall, there were two stalls left open. Back at the house Wyatt's parents room, which was roughly the same size as Wyatt and Lily's room, had been turned into a guest room and was open for vacany. That was three bedrooms with one open. One that could possibly be turned into a young man's room. That thought took Wyatt aback and he had to push it to the back of his mind. He'd drive himself demente thinking about that now.

They had exited the diner at that point and Lily snuggled into his side. Wyatt had a broad chest with strong shoulders, serving as a good resting spot for Lily's arms and head. She always seemed to fit right there, especially when they were lying in bed. Wyatt didn't admit it but he loved the way Lily fitted right there, just holding him. His next favourite thing was wrapping his arms around her waist, her back turned to him and his lips resting against the nape of her neck. It was obvious how Wyatt relaxed along with Lily, taking her hand then lifting their linked arms up and over, his arm across her shoulders and her arm just crossed over her chest. He walked on the outside once again nearest the road. He'd always walked with Katy away from the cars and it may seem a silly precaution at times but when it came to either of his girls Wyatt wanted no harm done. God it was going to be tough once Katy was independent. Just sending her out into town on errands, alone, was causing Wyatt some panic already. Then again he didn't want Katy to be totally dependent on him. Well, his father had warned him during Lily's pregnancy just how hard this was going to be.

If that'd make ya happy.

Wyatt's smile was gentled and he shook his head, laughing inwardly as he looked on ahead. They walked straight past Brenda's little shop with apparently no interest in the items displayed in the window. God Lily could be so stubborn. He loved it. He leaned his head down as they walked past the shop to give Lily a loving kiss on the cheek. Wyatt didn't see Brenda and he found that he didn't really care to see the woman's face as he and his family walked by. Surely she had other things to do...no, Wyatt supposed that was wishful thinking in this little town.

Once Ace is trained I'm sure he'll calm down. I separated those two when Ace was a yearlin'. He still finds his way back to Martha and gives her hell.

Wyatt's lips pulled in a bemused smile, his brow pulling together.

We're gonna have our hands full over the next month. I gotta get that cattle drive organised then there's Dancer and Flyer. Those two need their trainin'.

Wyatt reached up with his free hand and rubbed his jaw, feeling a hint of stubble growing. He had never much cared for letting any facial hair grow. Once or twice he'd let his stubble go on for a few days but those had been times when he was out on a drive. Otherwise he stayed fresh and without a beard or anything else, Wyatt kept a young appearance, even though his tanned face was a little worn from all those hours spent on the ranch.

They had reached Round 'em Up and Wyatt let go of Lily's hand to open the door and let his two girls walk through. The store smelled like a barn. It was the smell of hay and leather all mixed up into one.

"Wyatt!"

Jack had been busy fixing a saddle that had tilted off of its display and had heard the door. He stood up and walked on over to them, reaching out his hand for Wyatt to shake. Wyatt took it firmly with one shake and then returned his hand into his coat pockets.

Mornin' Jack. How're ya doin'?

"Just fine, just fine. Morning Lily, its been a while since I saw your face 'round my part of town. And is that Katy? No! She's looking too grown up to be Katy. Wyatt, you got a girl following you around town?"

Jack was in his fourties and had no family of his own. It was just himself and his wife, and Jack was one of the other faces in Westin who did not spread gossip like wildfire. He minded his own business and had once been a ranch hand himself. He always gushed over Katy and although he showed some signs of curiosity towards Lily he did not make it as obvious as the people that had been in the diner, or for that matter, Randy.

"Jack its me!"

Katy laughed and hid into her mother's leg, giggling as she peeped up at Jack from the protection of Lily.

"They just grow up so fast."

There it was, the one line that made Wyatt wince.

Don't you start on me.

Wyatt kept his voice fairly restrained but he cracked a little smile, looking from Katy to Jack and then to Lily.

We'll call ya if we need any help.

Jack took that as his queue to return to the saddle and the rest of the display with a friendly smile and nod. Wyatt notioned for Lily to walk on ahead. Down one of the aisles was a section dedicated entirely to riding wear and there was a large rack displaying many variations of stetsons.

There's a fine one.

Wyatt had spotted one and took it off of the rack. It was a brown stetson with some leather details. He popped it onto Lily's head and smiled at her mischeviously. It was way too big.

[Lily Parker]

Lily knew that she had planted that seed within her husband’s head now. He would be thinking about Finn a lot more than he already had been because of her insinuation. She was certainly alright with that. The boy belonged in their family already. He got along with Katy, and that was the most important thing. Finn never hesitated to keep an eye on the little girl if Lily asked, or even if Wyatt asked. He was good with their little girl too, and Lily had not the slightest idea why. She figured it was because Finn could just be himself. In a way, Katy was helping heal the young man. Finn didn’t have to be worried about being judged because Katy loved without question. And anyone who gave her the time of the day just to spend time with her was good in her book. Lily was so proud of the person their daughter was growing into.

Looking down at the little girl, Lily couldn’t help but smile. She wondered if she would want Finn as a big brother. Wyatt and she would have to talk to their daughter about it, because that would mean Lily would no longer be the only child. Lily doubted that Katy would mind because she seemed to be as selfless as Lily. Finn would make a great addition to their family, and now that the idea was in Lily’s head, she wanted to fulfill it. That kid deserved to have happiness in his life because Lord knew he never had it before. She wanted him to feel special, and she wanted him to feel as if he belonged somewhere. Besides, he was making progress with Sweet, and she didn’t want to separate the two. Finn would bond with that horse. There was no doubt about that. And Lily didn’t have the heart to part the two. Finn only had two months left as part of the TTI program, and she didn’t want him to go. She doubted that Wyatt didn’t have the heart to let him go. She had to rely on her husband now.

Lily looked to Wyatt as they walked out of the diner together with Katy holding onto her hand. As he smiled, Lily found that it was contagious. She loved him with all of her heart and couldn’t believe how lucky she was right now. She had their beautiful daughter to love unconditionally, and she had the greatest husband in the world. She knew he loved her too, and she had the utmost respect and pride for him. He was strong enough to love her again, and to give her another chance. She would always appreciate him for that. Sighing, she let him direct their hands, just wanting to be near him. He gave her warmth, and he gave her the support she needed to get through this day. The amount of time that they had spent in the diner had given her more strength, and the food had filled her. She knew she had enough stamina remaining to get through this day. However, Lily also knew that if she needed to sit at all, Wyatt would be the first one to find her a chair. So now, leaning into him and holding onto Katy’s hand, she felt safe. She could make it through this. Ignoring the stares, she saw Brenda’s store up ahead. Ignoring it completely, she turned to look up at Wyatt with a smile after he had kissed her cheek.

”I’ll do whatever I can to help you Wyatt. And for Fly, I think we’ll make progress. He’s been responsive to me lately, I think. We should maybe look into breeding him and Dancer.”

She always spoke her mind, and that was definitely on it. She wanted to continue the Nokota lines, and that was why she hadn’t gelded Flyer when she adopted him. The breed was fading fast from America, and she wanted to hold onto the dying one. Flyer and Dancer would make a beautiful foal, and she couldn’t help but want it to happen. Sighing slightly, she let go of Wyatt’s hand as they approached the store and he went to open the door for Katy and her. Letting Katy go in first, Lily didn’t let go of her daughter’s hand for a moment. She eased herself into the store behind Katy, and looked over her shoulder for Wyatt. The store was a relief for her. It smelled almost like home in the barn. Hay and the scent of leather reached her, and it filled her with a sense of familiarity. That small fact was going to get her through this. That, and the fact that the store keeper wasn’t staring at her as if she had grown five heads. She appreciated that more than anything. She heard his words as he spoke, and she offered him one of her trademark smiles.

”Good to see you Jack. It’s been too long.”

She said honestly, glad and relieved he wasn’t making a big deal out of her sudden appearance in Westin. She suddenly felt Katy clinging to her leg, and she rested her hand on her daughter’s head gently. She was glad that she could still offer some security and a sense of safety for their daughter. She grinned as Jack spoke to the little girl, but was glad when Wyatt nodded the shop keeper off with a gentle, polite word. She took Wyatt’s hand for a moment as he approached them once more, but then released him when he nodded her forward. Walking to where he directed, she kept Katy close as they reached the long aisle of apparel. She made a bee line to the hats and carefully removed her black baseball cap so that her kerchief wouldn’t come loose. She was about to reach for a hat when Wyatt plopped one on her head, laughing as it sunk down to cover her eyes. She looked to where she had seen him standing last.

”You know, if this is your definition of fine sir, we might have a problem.”

She said, swatting at him playfully, but figuring she would miss because she couldn’t really see. But he made her laugh, and her contagious laugh came forward instantly. Only her nose and mouth were visible below the brim, but her smile was there. She was radiating with her happiness, and she couldn’t be in a better place right now. She finally managed to pull the hat gracefully off of her and gave Wyatt a playful mischievous look. She loved that man. Looking around, she saw a brown one that was too high for her to reach. It was different from her favorite shade of black when it came to hats, but she was alright with that. This one appeared more countryish, and liked it was already worn in. She was perfectly fine with that. Pointing it out to Wyatt, she stood on her tiptoes and even used Wyatt’s chest for balance, leaning on him. She gave him a pleading look.

”Can you reach it?”

She questioned easily, giving him that familiar smile. Releasing her gentle hold on his shirt, she smoothed the fabric out with her hands, and then stepped back. Maybe he would be able to reach it for her. It was a nice hat, and had nice detailing on it. That was the thing about Lily. She was easy to shop with. Once she saw something she liked, she tried it on and that was that. She didn’t need to try it on a million times or try twenty different things on that looked just like it. She saw something and picked it up. And that was that. She wasn't one to beat around the bush, as other people did. Lily kept her eye on Katy as Wyatt went about maybe trying to get the hat, and found a little one that would fit Katy. She picked it up and plopped it on her daughter's head.

"Now don't you look beautiful. Like a real cowgirl."

Lily said with a smile, crouching down to get to Katy's eye level. She loved this little girl, and never wanted to let her go again. Lily wouldn't leave her, or Wyatt. That was why she was fighting this cancer so hard. She wouldn't leave them again. Not ever again.