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"You called Jane about Oliver?" The thought of him taking time out of his day to consult his sister about horse care makes me smile.

He shrugs, a small grin playing at his lips. "I knew she’d probably already considered what she’d do with her horse if and when she gets pregnant.”

"Makes sense. What did she say?"

"She mentioned a trainer—someone really good who might be able to take Oliver for a few months. Apparently, this person specializes in young horses with potential, especially ones that can be a bit naughty sometimes.'"

"That's generous. I would have said 'occasionally a complete asshole,'" I say, fondness softening my words.

Charlie chuckles. "Jane said this trainer could not only keep Oliver fit while you're unable to ride, but actually advance his training significantly. So when you're ready to get back in the saddle, he'll be even better than he is now."

The idea sends a rush of excitement through me. A professional trainer—someone who could really develop Oliver's talent, address his weak areas, and prepare him for higher-level competition. It's the perfect solution.

"That sounds incredible," I admit. "Did Jane mention who she was thinking of?"

"Someone named Madison Hayes? Jane said she trains out of Bellevue and has produced several national champions."

My eyes widen. "Madison Hayes? Charlie, she's one of the top trainers on the West Coast. Her clients win everything." I push away from the wall, pacing the small space of the tack room. "That would be amazing for Oliver, but..." I stop, the practical side of my brain stepping in.

"But what?" Charlie prompts.

"But trainers like Madison Hayes are extremely expensive." I shake my head, reality dampening my enthusiasm. "We'retalking thousands of dollars a month, not including show fees if she took him to competitions. There's no way I can afford that on a symphony salary, especially with twins on the way."

Charlie is quiet for a moment, watching me with those intense blue eyes. "What if money wasn't an issue?"

I tilt my head, not understanding. "But it is an issue. That's the whole point."

"Not if I pay for it."

The words hang between us. My first instinct is to refuse—the independent part of me that's been taking care of my own finances since I graduated from Juilliard recoils at the idea of accepting that kind of help. But there's something in Charlie's expression—an earnestness, a desire to help—that makes me hesitate.

"Charlie, I can't let you do that. It's too much."

He takes a step closer, his hands finding mine. Our fingers intertwine, and I feel that familiar spark—that connection that grabs me every time.

"Tess, please. Let me do this for you." He looks down at our joined hands before looking back at us. "Oliver is important to you, which means he's important to me."

I bite my lip, torn between pride and practicality. "It's so much money though, Charlie."

"Money I have and I would love to spend it on this." His fingers tighten around mine.

Put that way, it's hard to argue. I look up at him, studying his face for any sign of uncertainty. There is none—just that focused determination I've come to recognize when Charlie has made up his mind about something important.

"Okay," I say finally. "If you're sure, and if Madison has room in her program, then...thank you. It would be amazing for Oliver."

Charlie's face lights up. "Great! Jane already talked to her, and she has space in two months if we want it."

I shake my head, laughing despite myself. "You were that sure I'd say yes?"

"No," he admits, pulling me closer. "But I was hopeful. I've learned that sometimes it's better to have everything ready to go, just in case."

I rest my head against his chest, breathing in his scent—coffee and his spicy cologne, now mixed with the earthy smells of the barn. "You're amazing, you know that?"

"So I've been told." His lips press against the top of my head.

I poke him in the ribs, and he laughs, the sound rumbling through his chest against my ear.

Over his shoulder, I catch sight of Oliver watching us from his stall, ears pricked forward as if he's following our conversation. For a moment, I imagine him with Madison Hayes, developing his talent, becoming the horse I know he can be. When I'm ready to ride again, with the twins safely arrived, he'll be waiting—better than ever.