here we go again || Wyatt?

[Lily Parker]

He was going to kill her. He was going to really, honestly kill her. And that was why Lily Parker hadn't told her husband about the new horse that she had adopted from the BLM. What he didn't know wouldn't hurt him. It was as simple as that. He was out on the ranch somewhere, but Lily was just going to have to be slightly crafty. She had heard of this horse from a friend who she was still in contact with. The horse was about the sweetest thing she had ever met, but no one was giving him a chance. He wasn't as dominate as the other gelded stallions, and no one would figure he would make it far. His coloring was weird, and he was just too quiet to make a sale. He was so quiet that many prospective adopters viewed him as sick. The manager of the time thought that he would have to find another solution to getting rid of the horse.

Until Lily Parker stepped in. She had made the call and had set up the adoption. This time the horse would be brought to her and Silver Stag because she was sick and couldn't make the journey. If anything had went wrong, there weren't any hospitals close by. Lily had made Boondock Saint her own. Her small herd was growing already, and her husband was probably not going to appreciate it, since she was certain she had convinced him to take in that horse they saw by the river. She would make sure that her now two horses weren't any trouble though. Well, Fly could be a bit of trouble because of his attitude, but he was getting better. Everyone could see that he was being gentled, and Lily couldn't be happier. The young woman sighed softly and stepped out into the afternoon sunlight. There was snow on the ground, but the snow made it a bit warmer for everyone around outside.

However, she was still bundled up. She had exchanged her cowboy boots for warm winter boots today, and was wearing black snow pants as well. They were working pants, so she wasn't too worried about them. She had her carhartt jacket zipped all the way up to her chin, and her cowboy hat was firmly in place with a scarf around her neck too. She was ready with a pair of gloves as well, and when she saw that truck and trailer pulling up the long drive, she stepped out to meet them. She hoped Wyatt hadn't caught sight of that trailer, wherever he was. Grimacing at the thought of her husband discovering her newest addition, she smiled as her friend stepped out of the trailer and gave her a small hug.

"He traveled perfectly. You've got yourself a good boy there, Lily. I'm surprised no one wanted him. He's a sweetheart. Boone's got some separation anxiety, but other than that, he's as good as a saint. Guess that's why they call him Boondock Saint."

She explained easily and Lily just smiled. She was happy to hear that Boone had traveled nicely. They would have yet another quiet horse to house on the ranch. And the best news was that Boone was already broken to saddle. Lily's friend had been working with him up at the BLM because he had been so nice. Lily had a saddle horse right here in front of her, which would probably please Wyatt. He was a lot smaller than Beau. And he seemed safer than some of the other horses as well. She had heard he was of steady foot and sound mind, which was perfect. She heard a deep nicker from within the metal trailer, and she went over to it. Climbing up the side of the stock trailer, she saw a pair of hazel eyes peering at her, the thick forelock covering them slightly.

"Hey handsome. Welcome to Silver Stag. Wyatt's not here, so we've got to get you in and settled before he does get here."

She said with a grin, and then thanked her friend. It didn't take her long to sign the paperwork and fill everything out. And fifteen minutes later, Boone was standing by her side in all of his glory, and Lily was waving her friend off. Boone was actually a nicely built and nice looking horse. Lily was disgusted that no one had given him the change. His feet needed to be done, and she was certain that he needed a good grooming. The horse was happy though, and his calm expression turned to study Lily. She held her hand out to him, and he nuzzled it immediately, nickering as he searched for treats.

"You're going to be a piglet, aren't you Boone? I already love you."

Lily admitted and then turned to walk Boone into the stable. She would settle him in a stall for now to see how he did over night. After that he could go out into a pasture. She just needed to figure out who she could put him with. No one too dominant, because that hadn't worked at the BLM. He needed someone just as quiet as he was. Patting his solid neck, she was surprised to see how muscled he was. He needed a lot of conditioning, but he was still well built. She was impressed. As she turned the corner, she suddenly caught sight of someone out of the corner of her eye. Oh no. She prayed it wasn't Wyatt, and asked Boone to trot forward as she hurried along. He went willingly, tossing his head in play as they went forward. She didn't know who it was, but she slowed to a walk in the barn so she didn't look suspicious. Hopefully she had gotten in without being seen.

[Wyatt Parker]

Word Count: 861
Status: Complete
Lyrics: There and Back Again by Daughtry

Wyatt kept his horse reined in, using his thighs to keep himself in his saddle. Hero pulled his chin into his chest and then curved it around onto his shoulder, being pulled into a smaller circle. Snow flew up around Hero's hooves and the sound of his horse's grunting and constant fussing filled the empty air.

Hero!

Wyatt scorned the stallion who continued to throw his head in all directions and pull at the reins. He sat deeper into the saddle, taking a hold of the horn just knowing what was going to happen next. Hero finally threw his head back into Wyatt and began backing up. He took a few skittish steps before wildly throwing himself forwards and throwing his back legs up into the air. The tilt was forceful but Wyatt managed to keep his seat, way out of practice from his rodeo-going days and felt his back give in from an old injury. Next thing Wyatt was lying on the ground, having gone shoulder first and hitting the cold hard snow. He stayed still to get his breath back, doing his best to gather himself before one of Hero's hooves sliced him. He looked up and his horse was still bucking with the reins dangling dangerously loose around him. He emitted a high pitched whistle, negotiating with the snow to sit up and get a hold of his mustang. Hero carried on for another few minutes before trotting in a large oval, carrying his head with the whites of his eyes looking wildly around him. His tail was held high and again Wyatt's heart sank as he saw the reins dangle around his horse's legs.

Hero!

Take, take your time.
Smell the roses, but steal the vines.
Don't wait for the hands of time
To second guess and change your mind.
And shine.
Here's your moment to shine.
Shine.

Lay down, my friend.
Close your eyes, breathe in,
And I'll take you there and back again.
No more questions why.
I'm not so surprised
Why you have
Been there and back again.

Wyatt nursed his shoulder, rubbing it with his fingers then wincing as the pain reminded him of his earlier fall. A small animal had dashed out of the bushes back at the edge of Rickshaw mountains where Wyatt had been studying the terrain for the next cattle drive. Hero had been spooked, over-reacting completely and dumping Wyatt in the snow. All the horses were uptight after the snow had fallen the previous night and Hero seemed to have collected all of that and just waited for that rabbit or whatever it was to jump out at him. Wyatt adjusted his stetson then looked down at his horse. Hero was walking calmly now but had tried his luck just once more by side-stepping at a bird from tree to tree. Wyatt had quickley put an end to that and Hero just knew he was in for it.

They had reached the ranch and still tenderly keeping his arm across his stomach Wyatt pulled Hero up to a halt, having to slide off the saddle to keep from hurting his shoulder. Wyatt took up the reins and led the stallion on towards the paddock. After untacking Hero he was forced to leave the saddle behind whilst he carried the bridle over his shoulder that hadn't suffered from the fall. It would be alright in another hour or so but it would still be helluva tender and bruised. Wyatt had kept his eyes down but he heard the sound of an engine. He had come around the back of the ranch so he wouldn't have seen any cars coming from the main road that led up to his homestead. Wyatt covered his eyes from the sun and watched a horse trailer being led by a truck out onto the road. He just made out BLM patched onto the car door. What kind of business did he have with the BLM? He couldn't see a horse in the trailer and puzzlement was obvious by his expression. Wyatt made his way around the barn but saw nothing but the regular in the main yard. He hadn't seen Lily so he carried on into the barn and down the aisle. He must have been so lost in his own head not to see Lily in the stall but he quite managed that, heading on into the tack room and hanging up the bridle. He removed his gloves and stetson, setting them down on a crate then headed out again. He had every intention of going to the house to sort out his shoulder but Wyatt stopped. He was looking forwards but backed up a few steps, his eyes wandering into a stall that was usually empty.

Lily?

He said his wife's name, recognising her from the back. His frown was obvious and he stood figuring this out. Then realisation dawned on his face.

You didn't. Lily.

He would have known about any horses being brought to him to be taken care of temporarily or if there was another new border but he knew his wife well enough to guess what this was. She worked for the BLM so she knew constantly about horses going in and out. Wyatt had sounded exasperated whilst at the same time disbelieving. How in the hell had she gotten this past him? Wyatt eyed the horse in the stall, just able to make out the grulla but still not able to see it fully.

Please say this isn't what I think it is.

[Lily Parker]

Lily couldn't believe that no one had wanted to adopt this horse. He had been gelded as was the protocol, unless special circumstances arose, like in Flyer's case. Gelding would gentle them a little more, if it was done at a young enough age. However, Boone had been gentle even when he was a stallion. That was why had had gotten picked on so much by the others. His gentle personality was quite obvious from the beginning, and Lily knew that this was a horse she would trust her daughter on. Also, just as importantly, she would trust herself on him. She loved Beau, but he was unpredictable at times. And in her condition, he was too big, and too strong to be unpredictable with her on his back. She was a good rider, that much was known. But she was weak and couldn't hold on as well as she normally could. She didn't want to risk getting hurt while she was sick. She didn't know how that would turn out.

The only other horse she would have trusted in the stable was Martha, but she was laid up lame in her stall. Lily wanted to ride. She needed to ride, but she didn't have a safe horse to get on. The horses on Silver Stag were safe enough for a rider who wasn't as sick as Lily was. She would have trusted any one of them with her life if she didn't have cancer and was completely healthy. There was no question about that. But it was winter time as well, and that made them especially frisky. She didn't want to have to lunge them all before getting on them to make sure that their bucks were out. No one had the time to do that. So this was where Boondock Saint came in. His gentle way was already apparent, and he was already loving and trusting. Best thing was, he was gentled to ride, which was perfect. Lily wanted him to settle in for a couple of days, and then she would ride him. She would make sure Wyatt was there of course, but she needed to tell him first. Her plan was to cook him his favorite dinner tonight and break the news gently. Billy and Carl were going to help keep Boone out of Wyatt's sight for the time being.

But that was ruined as she heard familiar footsteps in the aisle. Oh no. Her heart dropped instantly and she pushed Boone gently into the back corner of the stall. He just continued to nuzzle her pockets and her hands, wanting some treat out of this deal. The horse was a sweetheart, and he was gorgeous to boot. His color was odd, with the stripes on his legs, but she loved him already. That was how Lily was. She loved the ones that no one else ever wanted. She couldn't help herself. Biting her bottom lip, she thought she was in the clear because she had seen Wyatt's face. He was distracted by something, and Lily was worried. She recognized the pain on his face, even though he was trying to hide it. Watching him for a moment, she thought she had made it, until he stopped a few steps away from the stall. Oh just great. She had been so close! Hearing his words, she grimaced and stepped forward, with Boone nickering and following quickly after her.

"Well, I could say that, but it wouldn't necessarily be true. But before you jump to conclusions, hear me out! They call him Boondock Saint, because he's a saint Wyatt, I swear. I need a safe horse to ride while I'm this sick, and look at him. A gentle giant. Besides, no one wanted him because he was so quiet they thought he was sick. He's healthy, just really gentle. And look at him! He's gorgeous. He looks like Dee!"

She offered and let Boone come forward from the stall. Boone saw Wyatt and was instantly interested in the man's pockets. The gelding nuzzled at Wyatt's hands, following suit by investigating his pockets. He nickered once more, nuzzling and searching. He was obviously trying to mooch. Lily smiled softly and then looked up to her husband. She knew he couldn't be the happiest with the situation, but what she said was true. Boone would keep her safe, that much was obvious. She waited for Wyatt's response for a moment and then offered him her normal pleading look. Her big doe eyes looked up at him in question, wondering what he'd say. She waited, and then spoke up.

"I love you?"

[Wyatt Parker]

Word Count: 619
Status: Complete. Its a liiiittle short because I'm a liiiiittle sleepy. xD
Lyrics: N/A

Wyatt stood with one leg slightly bent and the other straight, his one hand in his pocket and the other hanging loosely by his side. He had his head tilted looking on at the scene in front of him. His wife was standing with a horse he didn't recognize and that meant one thing - she had brought in another one. Wyatt rubbed his hand over his jaw, eyeing the horse as Lily spoke to him. He looked obviously displeased and again that familiar frown seated itself on his brow. He looked critically over the horse and even more so when it reached out to him. The horse didn't greet him with caution but instead searched his hands and then his pockets. He didn't put his hand out to the horse and when Lily said she loved him his eyes flicked up to look at those big doe eyes. He didn't reply but instead his stormy expression turned somewhat pensive. He eventually exhaled and moved forwards to lean on the stall door with his wife standing alongside the grulla.

Lily, I'm gonna go grey by the time I turn thirty.

There was a sense of humour in his words but Wyatt was still considering the horse. He should have been happy that this horse was safe enough for Lily to ride but at the same time he would still find reasons to worry. Horses were unpredictable and even the gentlest got spooked every now and again. If Lily had a set back in her health then his nerves would fray to pieces. Wyatt was holding on to her progress and seeing this horse, he couldn't help but feel tension build up in his chest. Yet he had to give in to those big doe eyes because if he ever said an unkind word to his wife he would never forgive himself. Wyatt opened the stall door and walked in, holding out his hand to the horse and letting him runs his muzzle over Wyatt's palm. Once the horse knew his scent he stroked the soft winter coat growing on the grulla's neck.

He's a saint alright.

Wyatt took a step back and looked at his wife. His eyes ran over her then with his good arm he pulled his fingers through his hair. He stood behind her and wrapped his arms around her stomach. His worried eyes were cast towards the horse when he spoke. He spoke his chin resting in the crook of her neck, his hand finding hers and lacing with it.

Promise you won't get hurt.

He said, speaking quietly and unable to help himself from saying those words. It made his heart weak to think of Lily being hurt but he couldn't dampen the happiness Lily was feeling over having a new horse. He felt a twinge in his shoulder as he dropped his arms from around his wife but it wasn't the first time the ranchman had taken a spill off of his stallion.

You taken him for a ride yet?

He asked, leaning against the wall of the stall and looking over at Lily. His eyes were gentle and he seemed to have gotten rid of his doubts. He had no energy for them just then and he found that all he wanted to do was have a few quiet moments with Lily. When he had let her go he hadn't let go of her hand and even with the slight distance between them, he still held her hand, giving it a loving squeeze. The corner of his mouth lifted up in a gentled smile. That moment was his way of returning the "I love you" she had so timidly given him before.

[Lily Parker]

Boone was standing quietly, his quiet, yet intense expression studying the man before him. He had already attacked himself to Lily because she had simply shown him kindness. It didn't take much for Boone to trust someone. If you were nice to him, then he'd be alright with that. He had been bullied by both horses and people so much that it was just refreshing and welcoming to have someone be kind to him. Any animal needed kindness in their life, and Lily was all about that. She had a heart of gold, and she was giving it to Boone now. He needed to be loved just like everyone else. She wasn't going to let him suffer because everyone thought he was sick, and not just a kind horse. You didn't find many horses like Boone, and Lily knew that she had been lucky. He was manageable, and he was safe. That was important to her now, and she knew it might be Wyatt's heart at rest for the time being. Hearing his words, she gave him a sheepish grin.

"It wouldn't make you any less handsome than you are."

She offered in a slightly playful tone. She knew something was bothering him other than Boone though, and she would get to the bottom of it. She wondered if he had taken a spill off of Hero. That face had been visible when he had fallen in the past, and it would take her rubbing Wyatt's shoulder or back for an hour to relieve the pain. She would still do it for him if that was what was bothering him, and she gave him a questioning look. She was about to speak up about the subject, but he was stepping forward. She knew he was inspecting Boone, and she remained quiet as her husband did so. Lily had an eye for horses, but she hadn't used it before she agreed to take in Boondock Saint. She had just agreed to it, and that was that. She was lucky he seemed sound and healthy for now. His color was striking as well, and she was more than happy that he had found a home here. He deserved to be in a place that he'd be loved, and not picked on. Patting his muscled neck, she heard Wyatt's words and smiled.

"Isn't he? Just give him a chance, Wyatt. I know he'll prove himself."

She finished and looked to the grulla gelding. She was still studying his conformation when she felt Wyatt step behind her. This was her favorite embrace other than the hugs that they shared. She leaned into him, her back resting against his front. They fit together like gloves, and she felt at home and at peace in his arms. Closing her eyes as she rested against him, she took a deep breath to steady herself. She wanted nothing more than to let this quiet moment with Wyatt last forever. It was what she was looking forward to today. She had been thinking about just cuddling up beside him all day, and she was glad that she could feel his touch now. His hand covered hers, and she allowed her fingers to lace with his. She could feel his chest rumble as he spoke, and she couldn't help but smile because of their nearness. This was a tender moment that she would remember forever. Hearing his words, Lily closed her eyes. She could never guarantee that. She was sick, and there was a chance that anything on the ranch could hurt her. But she could promise she wouldn't do anything rash that would make her get hurt. Taking a deep breath, she exhaled softly and responded just as quietly as he had spoken.

"I promise Wy."

She spoke, and felt him step away after a moment. His hand didn't leave hers though, and for that she was grateful. His question reached her immediately, and she shook her head. He had only just gotten here, and she honestly had wanted Wyatt to be there when she got on the grulla for the first time. She planned on getting on him in the round pen so that they had the safety of an enclosure. Her multi-colored eyes turned to gaze at her husband as he leaned against the stall wall.

"Not yet. I figured I'd let him settle in for the night. But I wanted you to be there when I got on him. Just in case."

She said honestly, watching Wyatt for a moment. She knew he was worried, but she would be safe. And then, the memory that something was bothering him resurfaced within her mind and she stepped closer to him. Boone was busy searching the ground for the hay she had given him. He found it and was munching happily, settling in rather easily and nicely. They wouldn't have to worry about him, that much was obvious. Lily reached Wyatt and stepped in front of him, standing up on her tiptoes. Her lips found his in a gentle kiss, and she pulled back, smiling softly. She stepped back down and gave him her searching gaze. Her hand remained within his, but her free one traveled up his arm, wondering if she could discover the injury. She wasn't pushing hard, but if he was sore enough that slight touch would be enough to make his face change.

"Are you going to tell me what hurts, or do I have to find it myself?"

She questioned with a smile, but then seemed to grow sober and serious. Lily was worried about him. He was under a lot of pressure from her being sick and from the responsibilities of running the ranch. She didn't want anything happening to him. Furrowing her brow, she leaned in closer again and worked her hand out of his. In another moment, her hands were cupping his face, making sure that he looked at her.

"You, Wyatt Parker, need to start worrying and thinking more about yourself. I'm worried about you because of all the stress you're under. You need to be selfish sometimes, hun. Don't push yourself until you're so exhausted you can't do anything. I love you too much to see you like that."

She said honestly, watching his face for any reaction. She always had to tell Wyatt when he was doing too much. It had always been that way, so she was used to it. She was the only one who could really tell him something like that anyway. Lily stood, ready to push him into resting if he balked at the idea. She wasn't going to lose him because he was doing too much.

[Wyatt Parker]

Word Count: 853
Status: Complete
Lyrics: Your Guardian Angel by The Red Jumpsuit Apparatus

Lily was watching Wyatt, using the words "just in case" and he knew that she would see him tense. The muscles in his back had clenched and so had his jaw, further defining the worry on his face. It all came with his lifestyle. Wyatt owned and ran a ranch firsthand, hardly ever taking a day off and always taking charge of the activities around the ranch. He also had to pay the bills and sort through everything. What could and could not be done, what needed to be paid for and how much things were going to cost, were prices going to go up, were his winter stock going to fail him or make things easier for a few weeks. It was a toss up. At any time something drastic could happen and take away everything. For all that Wyatt buried himself in his work each and every day. By doing that he started to enjoy the job less and less as it became more laborious. Wyatt had forgotten to take a step back and appreciate all that was going on around him. Wyatt only appreciated these quiet moments every now and again when he allowed himself the space to breathe.

At the same time he never once blamed Lily for all that extra time he put into their marriage. If anything Wyatt would do the opposite. He could only offer praise to his wife for being so strong and he appreciated anything that she could do. Living life like this was better than the two years they had spent apart and although it was a big part of their lives now, it would soon be a small portion of their entire life together. One day Wyatt really would be grey and so would she. Katy would be grown up and who knows if they would have other children. Every moment with his wife, whether it was in a hospital room or right there in that stall, he loved her. He could be mad at her, sad for her, or completely at war with the world but he would love her through thick and thin. There was never a moment where he could find himself not loving her.

When I see your smile
Tears roll down my face I can't replace
And now that I'm strong I have figured out
How this world turns cold and it breaks through my soul
And I know I'll find deep inside me I can be the one

I will never let you fall (let you fall)
I'll stand up with you forever
I'll be there for you through it all (through it all)
Even if saving you sends me to heaven

It's okay. It's okay. It's okay.
Seasons are changing
And waves are crashing
And stars are falling all for us
Days grow longer and nights grow shorter
I can show you I'll be the one

Just in case.

Wyatt breathed out the words and put his face into his free hand, staying there for a moment then pulling his hand up and through his tuft of blonde hair. There were worry lines on his forehead and on the edges of his eyes, proving Lily's point that she would bring up later - he was pushing himself.

When Lily came up to stand in front of him, Wyatt's arm remained at his side whilst he brought their interlaced hands up and rested them against his chest. Lily reached up and Wyatt willingly met her lips, breathing in her scent as it wafted in around him. He wanted to lose himself in her but reality set in once again. She knew that look on his face and she knew exactly what it meant. Lily's hand was traveling up his arm and Wyatt couldn't help but drop his eyes and flinched. Her fingers had touched his shoulder and it was then that Wyatt became unwilling. He didn't want to admit his injury when this was Lily's time. Next thing Lily had let go of his hand and he was sure that she was going to scold him just as he had spoken to her earlier upon the first discovery of the new horse. His eyes avoided her for those very few moments until her cold hands cupped his face. His eyes drew up to hers, forced to listen rather than be stubborn. Wyatt was quiet before his body really slumped against the wall, his eyes burrowing into hers.

I guess I got lost in everythin'.

Wyatt admitted, his face showing his obvious displeasement at having to finally face the truth. He knew that he tried to do everything at once and be the breadwinner - be the man. He sometimes needed that reminder that a man was nothing without the help and support of his family.

I'll be more selfish.

His hand finally found her waist, sitting in her curve and then reaching around to the middle of her back. He leaned forwards, with his body comfortably meeting hers. It had the familiarity that a married couple should have so far into their marriage.

Thank you, Lil.

His voice was quiet once again and silence rung in his ears. There was only the sound of their breathing and Boone's quiet movements as he shifted around in his stall. Wyatt's head tilted downwards, pausing as his eyes looked into hers then his lips found Lily's. He kissed her slowly, sensually. It spoke of their love and his appreciation for her wisdom. His lips moved over hers, firm but at the same gentle. Once he pulled back Wyatt kept his face close to hers and kept his eyes closed. He had been living for these moments with his wife and having found it again, Wyatt could not express the happiness swelling in his chest.

[Lily Parker]

What had she done to him? Her eyes searched her husband's face quietly, looking at the stress and the exhaustion that she found there. She hadn't been paying him enough attention. She had been too worried about herself and her sickness to think about his well being. She had been too caught up in having cancer to realize that she wasn't alone in this. She was the only one who had cancer, but she wasn't the only one who was affected by it. This man, this wonderful, fantastic man had been there for her through thick and thin. And her selfishness had caused her to neglect him. But not anymore, and never again. She was going to make certain that he had all of the attention in the world from now on. She couldn't see him like this. He was exhausted and spent, and it was mostly her fault. She needed to be more considerate to the man in her life. He had done everything for her, and had gone above and beyond. She needed to give him more.

Lily's big eyes watched him for a moment. Her eyes seemed to be searching his very soul, and they were. She would get to the bottom of his pain, and she would also somehow convince him to rest more. His father had died because of a bad heart, and a part of her would always, always worry about her husband. Keeping those thoughts to herself, she remained silent for a moment and tried thinking of what she could do. She would cook him huge meals and make sure she helped as much as she possibly could around the ranch. She wanted to make his workload less, so she knew she could take care of a lot of the paperwork that came with the ranch. He wouldn't have to stay up late at night going through it if she could get it done during the day. Watching him for another moment, she heard his words. Just in case. There was always a chance that she could get hurt. There was always a chance that he could get hurt. It was a part of ranch life, but it was more serious when it came to her because of her cancer. One never knew what a fall would do to her fragile body. Watching him strain even more now hurt her though. She squeezed his hand softly.

"You can never be too safe. It doesn't mean something's going to happen. But we're going to try to prevent that. I trust you, and I know you'll be there. That's all that matters."

She said honestly, watching him as she explored his arm. She had a feeling it was this one because he was holding it strangely. Lily knew his ins and outs and there was no way he could hide things from her for very long. Especially when it came to him hurting physically. She had a radar for that kind of thing, and it was obvious as she ran her hand up his arm. As she reached his shoulder, she already felt the tenseness there. Oh, she had found the injury. The poor shoulder that usually took the brunt of his falls. He was going to have problems with that when he got to be old. Furrowing her brow, she watched him flinch and spoke out.

"Found it, you stubborn man. I'll fix you up."

She said with a small smile, and then had leaned up to give him a small kiss. He had returned it willingly, and the smile hadn't left her lips. She loved this man. She felt badly for how much she had been neglecting him lately, and she was going to fix that. She would give him all of the attention in the world. And it would start with these quiet moments. They never had enough of them simply because he was either on the ranch and she was inside, or Katy was with them. She loved their daughter more then anything, but it was nice to have these special moments. Watching as his body slumped against the wall, Lily's heart went out for him. Her caring nature was slightly overpowering at times, but it was exactly what he needed. He needed to be spoiled and pampered because of the stress that he was under. As he admitted that he got lost in everything, she nodded softly, but she wasn't judging him. Lily would never judge.

"So we'll just have to find you again."

She said matter of factly, watching him with a small smile on her face. She would help slow the whirlwind that had become their life down. It was what they needed anyway. They both needed to take a step back and just appreciate one another, as well as appreciate life. She was alive, and he was alive. They were both here and they had a beautiful little girl .The ranch would survive. It always did, and it always would. And Lily would take over the paperwork, which would help tremendously. She was always an organized person, so she wouldn't have trouble keeping track of things. It would work out. He would see. They couldn't give up yet. They were both just tired, but he was more than her. She would help him pick himself back up. That was what married people did. She would give and he would take, and then he would give, and she would take. It was a compromise, and their love would get them through it. She sighed as she heard him speak, another smile forming.

"You better be."

She threatened to his words of being more selfish. She needed him to do that. He needed him to do that. Wyatt was too kind hearted. He needed to think about himself first for a change. Besides, next Monday was going to be the big day. The day that Lily's tests were supposed to end. It was the day that the doctor hoped she would finally be in remission. Lily was crossing her fingers for that day. Then maybe everything could get back to normal. Then she could help out more. It would all be alright. She just knew it. Hearing his thanks, she just shook her head.

"You have nothing to thank me for, Wy. I should have noticed this sooner. This next week is going to be all about you. Get ready."

She finished, a grin playing at her lips. Wait until he saw what she had in store for him. And the week that was just about him would last longer. Lily was putting him first in every situation from now on, no matter what. She would put the cancer to the back of her mind and just focus on her husband. He needed the tender, loving care. She would provide that for him. She studied him for a moment until he was leaning forward, taking her in his arms and meeting her lips for a passionate, romantic kiss. Lily lost herself in that moment, kissing him back as she never had before. It did speak of their love. It spoke of all that they had been through and all that they still had to go through. Lily let him pull away, and she was left breathless. Keeping her eyes closed, she moved as close to him as possible and spoke in a whisper.

"Don't let me go Wyatt. I love you so much."

Her words were filled with honesty and passion. This man was her everything. This man was her world. They had made a child together. They had made a life together. They had survived crisis after crisis together, and they would be stronger together because of all of that. She leaned upwards once more, finding his lips once more in a gentle, compassionate kiss. She loved him. That was obvious.

[Wyatt Parker]

Word Count: 861
Status: Complete
Lyrics: Savin' Me by Nickelback

Oh yes he did, he had everything to thank her for. Wyatt really did. He was a man that had been gentled by this beauty that had come in from another town, hell another state completely and just thrown his life up into the air. Wyatt was a young footballer when he met Lily. He participated in sports and was one of many good-looking seniors running around that school. It had been another start to the year, more reason to show off now that they were headed into their last year or so of high school but then there she was. He had walked through those doors not knowing just how much one girl would change his life. He remembered meeting Lily as his lab partner and admiring her, whilst at the same time still trying to show off as a confident young man. He had used his charm and it had all come through. She had fallen for him just as much as he had fallen for her. Wyatt could recall the times when they had snuck out at night on horseback to go out in the wild Arizona plains just to be together alone. They had had all the time in the world for their love and not many people had predicted the end of their relationship. People had just known that the two would survive the times and just look at them now.

Wyatt still had his eyes closed as Lily leaned into him. Finally he blinked them open as Lily spoke. His breathing was shallow and he felt peaceful. He had parted his lips to speak back to her but Lily's lips found his. Wyatt's hand moved up and rested along her jaw, tilting her head up as he returned the gentle kiss. He really could have stayed like that forever because every man knows that there was nothing better than standing like this with their lover. Wyatt's fingers gently caressed her jaw, trailing down her neck and then right around to her throat. He then dropped his hand, wrapping it around Lily again and the kiss ended. He had pulled away, hovering then gently kissing her once again. It was shorter this time, short and so damn sweet. He kissed her jaw, his warm breath falling gently on her neck as he paused at the crook of her neck. He moved her hair away from her neck, tucking it behind her ear.

I love you.

Prison gates won't open up for me
On these hands and knees I'm crawlin'
Oh, I reach for you
Well I'm terrified of these four walls
These iron bars can't hold my soul in
All I need is you
Come please I'm callin'
And oh I scream for you
Hurry I'm fallin', I'm fallin'

Show me what it's like
To be the last one standing
And teach me wrong from right
And I'll show you what I can be
Say it for me
Say it to me
And I'll leave this life behind me
Say it if it's worth saving me

Wyatt's lips laid a final kiss on her neck just beneath her ear. He leaned his head back and held her a little bit tighter. It was a warm embrace that protected them even as a cold breeze drifted in through the open half door.

I really do.

Wyatt confirmed, his eyes not quite meeting hers yet as his fingers combed through the ends of her hair. He knew that her hair was a sensitive topic because she had been losing it with the chemo, but Wyatt touched it like it was going to break at the touch of his fingertip. Wyatt's eyes drifted up to her stetson and he smiled lazily. That was when his eyes finally met hers again.

So you really think this horse was a good decision?

He asked, his expression somewhat pensive as he looked over her shoulder at the grulla who was still nibbling at the hay left for him to eat. Wyatt couldn't deny that the horse was a good-looking one but he would, for reasons that weren't too personal because of the horse himself, hold a grudge against the horse until Boondock had a chance to prove himself. Wyatt was a ranch man so he didn't personally attach himself to whatever came through onto his ranch. There was a period of time where Wyatt had no connection with the horse whatsoever. There was always just that one thing that would finally allow Wyatt to like or even accept the horse. So the only reason Wyatt tolerated Boondock now was for Lily. He was wary but thus far this mustang wasn't shifting around his stall like the rest of the ranch horses. Wyatt's horses were all energetic and most of them nervously skittish. But that was when they weren't working. They had been apart from the cattle too long and all of them had been raised to herd cattle. It was about time they got back to work.

And as for Hero, Wyatt knew that he just needed to give his horse some more attention. Their rides were getting more and more difficult because inbetween them Wyatt was dedicating his time more to everything else and spending less time with the stallion. Wyatt had probably deserved the bruised shoulder for letting himself get so detached from a horse he had raised from birth. Wyatt was going to have to evaluate where he put his time from now on. It was that or everything would suffer and fall apart. No, that was not going to happen to Silver Stag. Wyatt looked down at Lily and a small smile curved his mouth up at the corner.

We'll check 'im out tomorrow and see what he's got.

[Lily Parker]

Lily had come to Westin as a young high school senior, having been forced here by her mother and father. At first she had hated it. Lily had always had a yearning for the city simply because she hadn't been able to sit still. And then, she hadn't known what Westin or the country had to offer her. She needed the hustle and bustle of life, and it was simply because she couldn't stay in one place. The city had given her plenty of opportunities to go exploring and to figure out who she really was. Besides, she had had friends then. She had made a life there with her school and with her family. The city had been everything to her, and she hadn't had any interest in moving. She didn't even think it was a thought that would cross her parents' minds. But it had. And it was like a slap to the face when they announced that not only were they moving, but they were moving to Arizona. What had she done to deserve that?

Lily had revolted as soon as they had gotten here. She refused to speak to her parents and she had refused to give them the benefit of the doubt. Her father had needed to move to support the family. His job had required him to uproot their lives, and she had needed to go along with them, obviously. However, she had been furious. It was her senior year, and she had been popular in her old school. She had had everything there. Now, she had nothing. She knew no one, and she didn't want to. She was too bitter to get to know anyone. And that was why she had been so quiet. She was a shy individual in the first place, but Wyatt had been the one to bring her right out of her shell. It was in their lab class together. She was new, obviously, and had needed a partner. It so happened that Wyatt had been the odd man out in one of the groups, and the teacher had paired the two. Lily hadn't known what to think of him at first. He was charming, but he was the captain of the football team. What would he ever see in the new girl?

It was a whirlwind romance that had actually been successful, for the most part. Lily had fallen head over heels and had decided that maybe Westin wasn't such a bad place. She became happier and friendlier when it came to her parents, and when Wyatt was around, nothing and no one could bring her down. He got her more involved in the horse world than ever, and she found herself at his father's ranch more often than not. She loved being around the horses and she loved the ranch in general. She had become fast friends with Wyatt's father, and things had only gotten better from there. She had wanted to spend every waking hour with Wyatt, and he had always been there for her. She remembered their late night rides the most. How she had looked forward to them, and how she now wished they could do that again. As soon as she was better, she was going to convince him to go on another one. It would bring back old memories.

As Wyatt kissed her, Lily found herself lost in all of those memories. They were memories she wanted to keep forever. Except for the two years that had been the biggest and greatest mistake of her life. Now they were making up for lost time. She never thought that she would win his forgiveness after what she had done, especially not after the greeting she had gotten in that driveway. But his strength had surprised her once more, and he had given her another chance. She wasn't going to mess it up this time. As he pulled away, Lily took a deep breath to steady herself. He always left her feeling breathless and light headed, and they were feelings she loved and welcomed. As he spoke, Lily's big eyes stared straight into his. She couldn't erase the smile from her face and she didn't want to. Feeling his lips rest on her neck, she tilted her head back slightly, feeling the familiar goosebumps that that kiss always gave her.

Letting out a small breath, she closed her eyes after a moment and rested her face on his chest, her free hand clinging to his jacket. She didn't want to let go of him. She couldn't let go of him. He had left her weak in the knees yet again, and she just couldn't part with him now. She let his words wash over them both, and she knew it meant so much when he spoke those words. She could always tell that he loved her, from his looks to his kisses, to everything that he did. But when he said those words, they filled her with warmth and passion. She couldn't get over how much she loved this man and she didn't want to.

"I know."

She whispered into his chest, keeping her eyes tightly closed. As he played with her hair, she prayed it wouldn't fall out between his fingers. It happened to her more often than she would like, and she didn't need her stupid illness ruining this moment. But his touch was so soft, and so gentle, that she didn't have to worry about it breaking. Sighing in relief and in happiness, she finally broke her face from his chest, reaching up to kiss him softly once more before settling into his arms again. She wanted to spend the rest of the day with him. She couldn't be separated from him now. Not ever. It was true. Distance had made her heart grow fonder. She didn't know if it was the same with him, but she wished it was. She was content and at peace now, and she was determined to drag him inside so she could take care of that shoulder. As he spoke of Boone, she turned slightly to look at the content grulla gelding. Boone was still chewing his hay, looking as if he was in heaven. She smiled once more.

"He was. You watch, he's going to be one of your favorites. Even though you'd never admit it."

She finished, knowing her husband all too well. She studied the gelding for a moment. He was one of the most quiet horses she had ever seen. Comparing him to Flyer was not a good idea, for it would only show how wild at heart Fly really was. But the two were like night and day. Boone would be her safety net, and he would get her back into riding while she was recovering. And by then, when they had finally managed to train Flyer, she would be ready for the blue roan stallion. She just knew it. Looking to her husband as he spoke once more, she grinned, excited for tomorrow.

"I can't wait. But for now, he's fine. Unlike you. Don't think you can get out of me taking care of you that easily, sir."

She said with a playful grin on her lips. Taking hold of his hand once more, she started out backwards from the stall, watching as Boone shifted to take a drink of water. Yes, he was going to be just fine for the night. She made sure Wyatt was out of the stall before she closed the door, and then took hold of his hand once more. Once they got to the house, she gave him a pointed look so that he'd sit down in the chair. She was going to work the tension out of his shoulder as she always had in the past. First she'd put the ice on it, then she'd let the heating pad sit for five minutes. Then she'd massage it until he was feeling slightly better. Going to the freezer, she grabbed the frozen bag of peas and handed it to him.

"You know the drill cowboy. There's not use arguing either."

She said honestly, standing in front of him for a moment. Her knees touched his as he sat, and she was going to make sure he put those peas on his shoulder. There would be no ifs ands or buts about it. She went to the cupboard as well and poured him a glass of water, while grabbing the pain killers too. she'd get him feeling better. All he needed was a woman's touch. Lily was certain he hadn't been taking care of himself in her absence. Going back to him, she stood for a moment, knowing she'd need to sit in a minute. But she would make sure he was all set first. She couldn't believe how far they had come already. She wasn't going to mess anything up ever again.

[Wyatt Parker]

Word Count: 1118
Status: Complete
Lyrics: N/A

Wyatt leaned his cheek on the top of her head, leaning into her and keeping his arms tightly wound around her. He could feel the chill of her skin and was offering her some of his warmth, which radiated off of his skin. Wyatt always had some kind of internal heater, if that's the best term to describe it. No matter the weather his skin was always hot to the touch. He carried that around with him but it didn't even seem to bother him in the summer when temperatures soared. Wyatt leaned back when Lily busted him. She hadn't forgotten about his shoulder and he had been hoping that she had. She always busted him for injuries that he carried around because "it didn't hurt". Oh, no. She didn't take his crap.

Wyatt groaned and leaned his head on the stall wall, his eyes cast up at the ceiling as he obviously avoided her eyes. Then he turned his head back down as she took his hand. She was walking backwards and he followed after she had to give him a little tug. He cast one glance back at the gelding and his eyebrows creased together. She had said that he would eventually wind up as one of Wyatt's favourites. He couldn't imagine riding a quiet horse. All his life he was used to the energy Silver Stag horses exuded so making that change onto a horse that didn't reuse your commands was going to be a hell of a change. He was used to the challenges and although on the outside he always appeared annoyed, he liked the challenges. But a quiet horse? He shook his head and when he turned Lily began leading him down the aisle. Boondock was probably going to prove all of Wyatt's assumptions wrong.

Wyatt was fairly quiet as they headed back towards the ranch house. He seemed to be unimpressed at the thought of Lily playing nurse. However he was proved wrong that he didn't need to give his shoulder attention when he pulled his shoulder blade back. There was a thread of pain that extended all the way down his hand, spreading through his veins like wildfire and making him regret moving his shoulder at all. It hadn't bothered him in the stall but just then it started to bother him. He didn't even want to know what it looked like already. With a heavy sigh he ascended the stairs and into the house. He walked into the kitchen but only sat when Lily shot him that look.

He pulled up a kitchen chair but before he sat down he removed his father's coat and put it up on the coat rack. He then took his seat down on the chair. Wyatt looked up at Lily and watched bedgrudgingly as she shuffled around in the ice box. He scrutinized the bag of peas as she handed it to him and he glanced up towards her.

Yes ma'am.

He said amusedly, his stormy expression cracking with a smile. She hadn't called him a cowboy in a long time. It was amusing to hear and it seemed to life his mood somewhat. He took the bag of peas from her and laid them against his shoulder. When he felt that the cold was coming through he put it down on the table and lifted his long sleeved shirt over his head. Of course he did it carefully, pausing when he put the scrumpled up shirt on the table, holding his shoulder and keeping his head down. He made a grumble of complaint before retrieving the peas again and laying the pack on his shoulder. So there he was, sitting in his black wifebeater. He hadn't bothered to look at his shoulder because he knew that a bruise had already risen on the surface. It was a minor injury compared to the kind of back injuries he had received back in the rodeo. Even now if he spent a long time in the saddle he would need one of Lily's massages or else he would struggle with his work the next day. For that Wyatt could always be grateful. His wife certainly had a way of sorting out all the little problems.

Lily had left his side and had gone to the cupboard. He watched her warily before settling his one arm across his thigh. The other was holding the pack on his shoulder. He was slumping somewhat in the chair and when Lily held painkillers out in front of him he looked even more unimpressed than before.

Ah, Lil.

He paused and then remembered exactly what he had promised her. To be more selfish from now on - as wierd as that would sound to an outsider. He took the pills, throwing them into his mouth then taking the glass of water and taking a few gulps then setting it down on the table.

Thank you.

He said, breathing out and settling back into the chair. He reached out for her hand and caressed the top of her hand with his thumb. He cast his eyes up towards her but this time he kept eye contact. Before he had been avoiding her eyes because he just knew that he had to face up to what she was telling him. Now he seemed to have accept a part of it. The transition wasn't going to be immediate so he needed some time to adjust to it. Of course he knew Lily would take delight in it. He always put up a fight when she tried to take care of him.

Hey you.

He said softly, a lazy smile unfurling on his lips as he urged her closer to him. His shoulder might be injured but there was absolutely nothing wrong with his knee and plenty of times before Wyatt had pulled Lily into his lap, often afterwards gathering her up in his arms and taking her up to the bedroom when it was late at night. That was when they had to be extra quiet, stifling their laughter from one another's jokes as they had to sneak past Katy's room, because by then she would be fast asleep. Wyatt wanted those moments back. Lily was the one woman on earth that could bring him down to his knees. She had before and she could very well do it again. Wyatt loved her that much to allow her to have that vulnerable part of himself. He wasn't afraid to give it to her and it showed in his eyes as he stared up at her just then. His broad chest rose and fell with his breathing, the pack resting freely on his shoulder.

[Lily Parker]

She knew he wasn't going to like this very much. He never liked taking care of his injuries very much. The both of them hated hospitals, and for good reason now. However, they were both strong enough to go into one for all of her treatments and doctor appointments. He would be strong enough to let her care for his shoulder. She was slightly worried that something was seriously wrong with it, for she knew that face. He only made that face when he was in a lot of pain, and of course Lily would pick up on that. She always picked up on his expressions and his moods. That was the type of person she was, and right now she could tell he was getting a little cranky. She didn't blame him. He was probably exhausted, and now that his shoulder was injured it would mean a long day tomorrow as well as long days to follow. Things always seemed to be worse when you were hurt, especially for Wyatt. He did too much to be hurt like this, and she was worried he was going to make it worse. What she really wanted to do was make him stop lifting things.

That was never going to happen though, and she had to accept that. Baby steps. She was lucky she had gotten him to admit that he needed to be more selfish. However, she had him on that one. He had made a promise, and Wyatt never broke his promises. He was going to have to take care of himself or he'd be going back on his word. And Wyatt Parker would never do a thing like that. Lily was delighted. She had finally gotten him in a position in which she could get him to be careful and take care of himself without too much of a fight involved. It was all working out perfectly, and she couldn't wait to see him relaxed and slightly more rested. She knew she wouldn't be able to change his schedule in the morning. It was like clock work. That man had an internal clock and without fail every morning, she could feel him getting out of bed at the same time. Soon enough she was going to be on that same clock so she could make him breakfast for the day. He needed a full stomach to get through the work that he had to do. And soon enough she'd be doing the paperwork so he didn't need to stay up late to do it. It was going to be perfect. he would see.

A small smile worked its way onto her face when they reached the house. He was going to be the worst patient ever. He always was, but she was ready for it. She had an advantage. He could usually never say no to her for some reason, even though she didn't always take advantage of that. Lily usually only did that when it involved taking in another animal. Like Boone for instance. Boone was going to be a wonderful addition, and she couldn't wait to get on the gelding tomorrow. She knew he was going to work out. She just knew it. And being back in the saddle again was going to do wonders for her soul and her health. She just knew the news on Monday would be good if she could ride. It was silly and not true at all, but Lily loved to believe in things like that. Things would be wonderful after Monday. His shoulder would be on the mend by then and she was going to be in remission. She could not wait.

As he entered the kitchen with her, and she indicated the chair, she saw his look. He better sit or else. She sent him a look that said no arguing, and was delighted when he sat. Maybe this wasn't going to be as bad as they thought. Grinning slightly with her back turned, she busied herself getting the frozen bag of peas and the medicine and water. She was lucky. The bag of peas was frozen solid. They had to turn down that feezer or something. The bag was like a rock, and she dropped it against the counter to loosen it up a little. It fell with a thud, and she figured that maybe it wasn't going anywhere. Making a face, she turned to Wyatt and handed over the basic ice slab. It would do the trick, but hopefully it would start to melt a little so he could mold it all over his shoulder. She then saw his hesitance and watched him balk slightly as he saw the medicine. Lily looked at him, about to open her mouth to say he promised.

To her absolute complete surprise, he took the pills. Her mouth dropped slightly in her shock, and her big eyes widened. She needed to get this on camera or something. Smiling as he finished the pills, she took the bottle back from him and tossed it back into the medicine cabinet. He was going to be thankful for those pills in the morning, he would see. He wouldn't be as stiff, although it would still probably be sore. But it would be so much better for him.

"You'll thank me for this later. I promise."

She said with a small laugh, and then watched as he tried to take his shirt off. She wanted to cringe in pain for him when he finally managed to get the shirt off. Glancing at his shoulder, she did a double take before he put that bag of peas on it. She couldn't believe her eyes. It was already covered in an angry looking bruise, and it didn't look good at all. It looked extremely uncomfortable and slightly swollen.

"Oh, Wyatt."

She finished in slight exasperation. But her tone was filled more with worry than anything else. He was going to let that go? He just didn't make sense to her. It looked like it hurt a lot, and she couldn't believe he would have kept working if she hadn't been there. Biting her lower lip, her big eyes looked at him in worry, and she wanted to help him in any way that she could. Hearing his next words, she found his eyes with hers, her big eyes still holding nothing but worry. Furrowing her brow slightly, she studied him as he pulled her forward. It was then that he was gently pulling her into his lap, and she gasped in slight surprise. They hadn't sat like this in quite some time. Then again, they hadn't done anything that they had been doing lately in quite some time. The embrace in the stall was one of their most tender moments in a long time, and Lily would remember it forever. She just wanted to go upstairs with him and spend the rest of the day with him now. She watched as he balanced the peas on his shoulder, and then gently reached for his face with her free hand. She loved this face so very much.

Her fingers softly traced over his features, as if she was seeing him for the first time in a long time. Her fingers finally traced over his lips, and she smiled towards him. The smile lit her eyes, and she was genuinely happy. Leaning forward, she kissed his lips for a moment, lingering longer than she normally would have. Pulling back finally, she took a deep breath and looked into his eyes. She needed him. She needed him more than she would ever care to admit. Without him, she would be nothing. Without him, she had been nothing. She didn't want to part from him today at all. The time they had spent together in the stall, and even this moment now was enough to prove how much she desperately needed him. Her eyes couldn't leave his now even if she tried to look away. She didn't want to look away. She didn't know how to tell him how much she loved him, and how much she wanted him. She just couldn't express that feeling. But it made her feel as if she was going to burst at any moment. Her hand went to his cheek once more, and she just didn't know what to say.

"Wyatt. I can't tell you how much I love you."

She finished, even though that sounded as if she had shorted him. She wanted to prove her love and her faithfulness to him now. Lily wasn't going anywhere. She was here to stay. And she was never, ever going to leave him ever again.

[Wyatt Parker]

Word Count: 1333
Status: Complete <3
Lyrics: N/A

Wyatt had seen Lily's astonishment and it was then that he realised just how much he fought against her help. He really was that bad. God knows Wyatt could be a great man but at the same time if you tried to change the way he handled things then you needed all the help you could get. He had to give Lily some credit for handling him the way she did. She always took it in her stride instead of taking offense to his constant objections. Thinking back on all those times that he had argued with her over "no, its fine. I'll live" made him cringe. He had to cut her some slack every now and again. For goodness sake would it kill him to let her sit him down in a chair and look after him? It was what she wanted to do and Lily offered her help so often. Wyatt felt damn right silly but then again, she had stayed with him this long. The thought softened his expression and once again he was finding himself looking up into her eyes.

You know I've had worse.

Wyatt countered Lily's words. Well, I didn't say that he would get off his high horse "just like that". He honestly wasn't even fighting not to take a peep at his shoulder. He didn't want to see it because that might mean he would have to admit that maybe it was that bad, but saying that he had had worse was true. Then again he'd never had anything as close to terrifying as what Lily had. That set off an alarm in Wyatt's mind as it reminded him that she had an appointment on monday. He spent most of his time keeping that in the back of his mind, mulling it over as he mucked out a stall, took a horse out to the pasture or even worked with a young horse. If Wyatt had been a religious man he would be on his knees praying through every minute until monday came. He was holding onto his hope to get him through the days and prevent him from tiring. Lily will go into remission. His wife. His love. His everything. She would be okay. Just looking at her told him that she would be okay.

He had taken a hold of her hand by then and with his lazy smile, he coaxed her onto his lap. She obliged him but at the same time looked surprised. It had been that long. It really had. He couldn't blame her for reacting the way she did but it did make his smile grow broader with amusement. She cupped his face in her hands, tracing lines across his jaw and lips. She leaned into him and kissed his lips. His lips moved on hers and savoured her taste until she moved away. He leaned into her hand, his eyes closing as he kissed her palm, his hand moving up to hold her hand that rested on his cheek. Lily spoke to him and he looked back up to her. She was staring into his eyes with an intensity that he couldn't look away from. He wasn't smiling but when she finished speaking another smile fell onto his lips.

He didn't speak because instead he cupped her chin and leaned up towards her. His lips found hers and molded into them like they had hundreds of times before. Once, twice...and then he pulled her nearer to him. He touched her lips with a familiarity that no other man knew. His tongue rolled over her bottom lip and then nudged his lips against her own. The kiss was deep and passionate - everything that they used to have and were finding once again. Wyatt loved that he was rediscovering her all over again. Finding all of those things that were familiar to him and reminding him of all the good things they had together. Most of all, he loved loving her. Lily Parker. He pulled away and took in a breath, still sitting upright with his hand resting on her thigh.

He was looking into her eyes as he tried to choose the right words to say, but nothing was coming to mind because the moment was so peaceful and so right that it hardly felt right to spoil it with words. Her eyes were forever changing and he could see the flecks of hazel surrounding her pupils. Sometimes they were green but most of all they were a stormy blue. Yet they could be the brightest eyes you would ever see. She had so much life in her that it shone through her eyes and it would often bring a smile to his face. Where Wyatt could be a bit harsh and firm, she could be caring and soft-hearted. That was by no means a weakness in her. Lily's love was wide-spread and it was bringing some life back to Silver Stag, which had been growing ever dull in her absence. Even Wyatt's old man had admitted that she had a certain quality that lit up a room.

My girl.

His voice was quiet, a bit softer than what it usually was. He was admiring her and it showed in the way his lips lifted up at one corner and his eyes softened. Wyatt dropped his eyes to his shoulder and then back up to her again. The bag had melted somewhat but was still pretty solid. It had however managed to stay balanced on his shoulder without him holding it against his skin. He looked a little bemused with his next words.

Thank you. Again.

The only reason for his bemusement was that he knew without her help, he would have been laid up and useless by the morning. Without his arm Wyatt might as well have been a blimp. Wyatt hated feeling useless and Lily knew very well that he would still try to work if he had broken both his left arm and left leg. But he had promised her. Wyatt ran his hand up the side of her thigh and let out his breath slowly.

Not just for my shoulder.

Wyatt paused and seem to consider what he said next.

Thank you for lovin' me.

It was one of the most sincere things Wyatt could ever say to Lily. He was showing her that piece of him that was vulnerable - the part that he trusted with her.

Thank you for lovin' Katy. Thank you for comin' back. An' I think that its about time we put those two years behind us. I don't wanna bring it up again. It was the longest two years I've ever been through an' I don't wanna remind myself of it. I wanna love you. I wanna live in the present.

His eyes reflected the confidence he felt as he spoke. He knew what he wanted and what he wanted was to grow old with Lily. He wanted to create years of marriage and happiness that overshadowed anything that threatened their love. It was difficult for Wyatt to be this open but when he needed to say something, he said it, so Lily would understand how much those words meant. She understood him so well. She knew the Wyatt that nobody else knew. She had seen him so many times - those nights they had spent out in Taimanen River. The boulders there served as a private spot where they could hide together. The horses could be ground tied on a sandy spot alongside the river whilst Wyatt and Lily spent tender moments with one another. The way he stared at her was...it was just something else. He couldn't help himself because her eyes were enchanting. There was a lot to be said about a woman who could enchant her man. There was nothing to regret about loving Lily Parker because she gave so much in return. She gave him all the love any man could ever want.

[Lily Parker]

Lily couldn't believe that he had let her do so much to him. Before it had been a harder struggle, two years ago. He would hardly let her look at him if he was in pain. This was a step in the right direction, and she was thankful for it. He couldn't keep beating his body the way he was without taking care of it. It didn't work that way. He was going to be laid up long before he wanted to be if he kept at it that way. But that was what she loved about him, and loathed at the same time. He was her stubborn man, and she did like that, she really did. But she didn't like it when it came to his health. She was all for him standing his ground and being as strong as he was, but not when it came to his health. She wanted to be here for him now when he was hurt. She would always be here for him no matter what, and she wanted him to understand that. She was back now, and she would no longer allow him to brush off his injuries as if they weren't important anymore.

Taking a deep breath, Lily exhaled softly and put everything away that she had been using. It had taken her only minutes to learn the kitchen again, and for that she was thankful. Lily had gone through this house from top to bottom once Wyatt had accepted her being back in his life. She had studied every room and every painting and picture. She remembered every memory behind every piece of everything in this house. She had added homey touches here and there, for Wyatt had had it looking like a man cave. And when she was well again, she wanted to give it a good cleaning. It wasn't that dirty, but it wasn't the same as when a woman cleaned it. She would scrub it from top to bottom. An early spring cleaning. She wanted to get back into the swing of things again. She wanted people to stop treating her like she would break at any moment. Wyatt had gotten better with that, even though he was still worried. Her cousin however, was the worst. Billy walked around her as if she would shatter at any moment. Lily was stronger than that.

She just needed everyone to realize that. She had changed in those two years of her absence. She had been independent and strong, and she had developed a new personality trait. She was confident now, and she would always be strong. Sometimes she would falter, and that would be when she would need Wyatt the most. But she had been strong through this sickness. She had been strong through the surgery and the recovery, and she was even stronger now. She was strong for Wyatt, and she was strong for Katy. That was how it would always be from now on. Sighing softly once more, she felt herself being pulled into Wyatt's lap. Hearing his first words, she sent him a playful glare. She knew he had worse. And he hadn't taken care of those worse injuries.

"Yes I know, you stubborn man. But from now on, I'll be taking care of you, and you just have to like it. No arguing, or I'll have to take you down."

She finished smugly. Wyatt and Lily used to have small wrestling matches. However, Lily always found herself on the bottom of the pile when they did that. She was just too small to beat him, and Wyatt was way too strong for her. He always went easy, but it always sent Lily into fits of laughter. She missed those times. She wanted those times back, and she wanted to make more memories. That was why she wanted Monday to go so well. Looking at her husband now, she gave him a charming smile. He knew she couldn't take him down, but she would try. Besides, she had an advantage with his shoulder. She wouldn't do it now, but when she found out that she was in remission, then he was all hers. She let her arm drape over his shoulders, being careful of the injured one. Her other hand rested on his chest, and her blue hazel eyes looked into his now. She loved this man wholeheartedly.

It was then that he took her breath away with his gentle kisses. Those kisses were what she looked forward to time and time again. It let her know that this was real, and that he really, truly cared about her. The little things that he did always let her know, and she would never argue with that. She loved the little things that he did to show her his love. As he deepened their kiss, Lily let herself go to him. She had never felt this way before, and she knew that he was her soul mate. That was something she had never believed in until she met him. He was her savior. And she would be forever grateful. Her soft lips met his in that familiar passionate way, and when he pulled away she felt as if it was too soon. Her eyes studied his for now, and she just wanted to go upstairs with him now to spend the rest of the day there.

Lily sat quietly now, hoping and praying that he wouldn't notice how light she had gotten. She had been trying to hide the fact that she was way too thin from him because she didn't want him to worry. Of course it was because of the cancer, but Lily would never want to admit that it was affecting her as badly as it was. The chemo that she went through always left her sick for the entire day afterwards. She could keep nothing down after treatment, and she dreaded those days. She hated that it made her feel so weak, and she wished it was possible to do better with that. But it wasn't. The doctors said it was pretty much normal that she was so sick. Wyatt was always there for her when that happened, but she was always embarrassed. No woman wanted their husband seeing them get sick in the bathroom, and Lily was no exception. She didn't want him to think any less of her. So now, she didn't want him to worry more when her light weight sat upon him. Hoping he might not notice, she smiled when she heard his words. She was his girl. That would never change now.

Lily absolutely loved when he called her that. She loved when he called her any type of affectionate name. It was something that always got to her, along with cuddling. Lily was a lover, and there was no doubt about that. The little things that he did always made her feel warm and loved inside. So she wanted to return that as much as possible. As he said thank you to her again, Lily opened her mouth to speak.

"Hun, you don't have to thank me."

Her voice was soft, and it faded at the end of the sentence as he began speaking again. There was something on his mind, and Lily knew to listen up now. Wyatt didn't usually speak his mind too often, but Lily was one of the select few that got the privilege to hear him when he did. Lily understood him and he understood her. There were no questions asked. They both knew when the other was speaking from the heart, and Lily looked into his eyes as he spoke. Her eyes were shining as he spoke, and there was the smallest of smiles on her lips as he spoke. Watching his eyes, she felt as if she was growing warmer and warmer inside. He never spoke like this unless he wanted to, and Lily felt blessed and special to be the receiver of his words.

The topic that he was speaking about was a hard one for Lily. And the stress of the past months was something that was getting to her, but she'd never admit it. The constant worry that she was under was putting a strain on her, and his gentle words caused her to break down that strong wall she had put up. She didn't want to cry because she was stronger than that, but she couldn't help it. For him to say the things that he said meant a lot, and Lily felt the single tear fall down her pale face. What would she do without this man in her life? She wanted nothing more than to put those two years behind her. Those two years had made them stronger as individuals, but it had made them even stronger as a married couple. Lily wanted him now more than ever, and instead of speaking, she leaned forward and captured his lips in the most passionate kiss yet. If they didn't answer his question, then she didn't know what would now. Pulling back after a moment, she spoke, knowing he deserved to hear what was on her mind too.

"I want to put it all behind us, Wyatt. I want to love you and Katy, and even Finn, and any other child we may bring into this world. I want to be the family I know we can be. Thank you for taking me back, and thank you so much for being here when I've needed you the most. I want to grow old with you Wyatt Parker. I want to watch our kids grow on this ranch. I want to be completely yours. I love you Wyatt."

Lily finished honestly and stayed where she was now. Her fingers gently played with his hair at the back of his neck, and her eyes never left his. She was done crying now, for that moment of weakness had long since passed. There was no reason to cry anymore. She had Wyatt, and she had his word now. She wasn't going anywhere ever again, and she knew he wasn't leaving anytime soon. They could stay here and raise their daughter and another child if they wanted to have more. Lily wanted to have more. She wanted to give Wyatt that son. She wanted to give Wyatt happiness and love. And she would. From now on, things would be different. this talk and these tender moments were a whole new area for them, and she loved it. It was something that they had needed to do since she had come back. Both of them had been dancing around the subject of her absence, but now they both knew. It was behind them, and they would never think of it again. Lily loved that. Lily loved him. She loved this ranch, and this life, and she loved her family. She wasn't going anywhere.

[Wyatt Parker]

Word Count: 731
Status: Complete
Lyrics: Mr. Right by A Rocket To The Moon

Her lips touched his and Wyatt had his answer. His hand gripped her a little tighter as the passion from her lips teased his own. As Lily spoke he sat up a little more in the kitchen chair. She finished off by telling Wyatt that she loved him. He was quiet, his eyes moving away from hers as he looked towards the ice pack. He pulled it off of his shoulder and set the defrosting pack on the tabletop. He had caught a glance of his shoulder but didn't seem to consider the brutal bruise at all. Honestly it looked worse off than what it was and with the pain killers it didn't feel all that sore, just a little tender. Wyatt's eyes found Lily's again and he smiled at her. He looked a little sheepish but he warded off any talk of his shoulder by putting both of his hands on her knees, working his way up her thighs and then laid them on her hips. He admired her eyes for a moment and his sheepish smile was still on his lips.

I love you, too.

My girlfriend's got a boyfriend, funny
He doesn't make a dime all day
And all her girlfriends' boyfriends with money
What more can i say?
It's true
He never made it through a day of school
The only thing he studied was you
He knows your body better than you do

Maybe i'm your mr. right
Baby, maybe i'm the one you like
Maybe i'm a shot in the dark
And you're the morning light
Whoa
Maybe this is sad but true
Baby, maybe you've got nothing to lose
You could be the best of me
When i'm the worst for you

Wyatt's gaze did not break from Lily's until he heard some clapping foot steps on the floor boards. He turned his head to look towards the door that led out onto the porch and could see a little figure behind the screen door.

Incoming.

He seemed at peace with the world and in that last moment he looked at Lily, showing her the happiness that had welled up inside of him. They loved each other and with their new resolve things would only move forward from there. Although they had made progress in the last few weeks, it felt like they hadn't gone very far because of all the stress and mayhem surrounding what they had built back up. Freedom was on its way and Wyatt could feel that release already. Lily especially would be free. He could remember waiting in the hall for the doctor to tell him what had happened to Lily. The agony. Pure agony sitting there with his back up against the wall and wanting nothing more than to be with her. That was when his walls had cracked. Something had had to happen to Lily for him to realise where his heart was and that was his regret - letting it happen so late. But he was only human and forgiving had been a difficult thing for him to do - now it didn't matter. That was in the past and he would not bring it up again. No. He was resolved on that matter.

Katy pushed the door open and she was panting, probably from running up to the house. She was wearing her winter jacket and little wellington boots that she wore when she was in the yard. She immediately noticed her parents sitting together and she seemed to be considering them. This was certainly not how Wyatt would have preferred to have his daughter find them, but he was so relaxed that he didn't seem too uncomfortable with it.

"Mommy! Daddy!"

She walked up to them and was still breathing quite heavily as she stood alongside the kitchen table.

Sweetheart, what you been doin'?

He asked, reaching forwards and inspecting a dirty smudge on her cheek, rubbing his thumb over it once.

"I was withs Billy."

She announced rather proudly and grinned, beaming with excitement. Her little lips were a deep red from the cold and her hair was a bit frizzy from playing.

"Can I ride Martha now, daddy? Mommy, I pwomise I won't hurt her."

Katy had started off pleading with her father but then seemed to have a change of heart halfway through her sentence and turned to Lily. Her big eyes were pleading with Lily and referring to Martha's leg. She had been lame for a few days and had recovered to the point where she was released into the paddocks again with the other horses. Lily had been severely disappointed that she couldn't ride Martha, who was the one horse Wyatt allowed her on because of Martha's gentle nature. Wyatt looked towards Lily and a mischevious smile played on his lips. Obviously Katy had learned to use the "doe eye" tactic on Lily, just as Lily used it with Wyatt. He was rather enjoying that, a little chuckle coming from him.

[Lily Parker]

Lily watched Wyatt with her quiet eyes, studying her husband in the light that the kitchen windows offered them. He was gorgeous in every single way, inside and out, and Lily was blessed to have him. So he was stubborn. She could work with that. Besides, she always loved a challenge, and he always offered her one. Sighing quietly as she settled more comfortably on his lap, she let her hands drape over his shoulders, being extremely careful of his injured one. Her touch was gentle and easy, and she knew she wouldn't bring him any pain to that injured area. Her blue gray eyes stared into his after he had returned her kiss, and his touch now sent chills up her spine. She didn't know how he could do those things to her, but he did. And it happened time and time again. Hearing his words, she just smiled. She didn't need to speak because they had told one another all that they needed to say. She felt as if that had been on his mind for a while, and she was glad that he had been able to tell her now.

Hearing him speak those words expressing her love filled her with absolute joy inside. She couldn't get over it and she didn't want to. Grinning quietly, she leaned forward and gently kissed his lips. It was quick and sweet, and Lily couldn't wait to spend the rest of her days with him so that they could keep sharing those kisses and these tender moments. She was content just being near him. They didn't need to do anything or even talk. She just wanted to be near him like this and that would be plenty for her. It was then that they were both alerted to the fast footsteps outside. Their quiet moment was coming to an end, but she was alright with that. They were going to be joined by their daughter in a moment, and that was something that she would love as much as spending time with Wyatt. Looking over her shoulder when he said incoming, she laughed slightly and then looked at their daughter as she came flying in. Her tiny body was bundled up, and Lily was glad to see that she was keeping warm for the most part in this weather.

Seeing their daughter's excited face made Lily warm inside. Katy found such joy in everything that she did, and Lily couldn't be happier. She suddenly heard the sound of paws scrambling up. Noah had heard Katy come into the house, and his affection for the little girl was well known. He had been snoozing in the living room, just close enough to hear Lily's voice. He now scrambled up however, wanting to greet his playmate. Bounding from the living room, his stub of a tail was wagging madly back and forth, and he yipped as he leaped over to Katy. In another instant his multi-colored body was wiggling in circles around her, and his tongue was flying out, trying to kiss her hands and her face in greeting. Whines could be heard from his absolute excitement, and his antics made Lily laugh. Well, it was obvious that the dog had found a new love in his life. She looked to Wyatt after a moment, not ashamed that Katy had discovered them in this position. She would have rather she didn't, but she was too at ease to care too much. She opened her mouth to speak in another instant.

"I think I've been replaced. He's found someone else."

She said with a smile, glad that the dog was so good with Katy. Shaking her head slightly, she looked to their daughter as she approached them. Lily knew that look. Katy wanted something, and she was going to use all of her adorable abilities to get that. Lily tried readying herself for what the request was going to be, and Wyatt ran his finger over the dirt smudge on their daughter's face. Katy was going to be a strong little girl, and Lily was glad for it. She didn't want people to be able to push their daughter around. There were too many jerks in this world, and Katy would be able to stand up to them. Lily just knew. Feeling more at peace now, she settled back onto her husband's knees and listened to their daughter. She wanted to ride Martha. It was then that she saw the eyes. Oh no. She inherited her look. Well, that would be awful for any men she had in her life. Lily grinned until she saw that the look was being directed to her. Oh no wait, a minute. That wasn't what the look was for. It was for Wyatt.

Lily looked to her husband then and saw his mischievous look. He was seeming to indicate that she was on her own with this one. Giving him a playful glare that said she would get him later for this, she turned back to her daughter. Martha had been lame for a few days, but she had been granted pasture turnout now because she was much better. Lily didn't see a problem with Katy getting on her, as long as she took it easy. She looked to Wyatt first and then turned back to their daughter, touching her cheek softly.

"Alright, let's go. But only for a little while because we don't want to hurt her, right love?"