Page 17 of Save A Horse (Texas Rose Ranch #1)

Colt

I stood in the barn, putting away what was left in the box and bag. My hands moved mechanically, knowing every action that needed to be done. There wasn’t any thinking involved.

The argument with Daisy replayed over and over again. Her words cut so deep.

I was supposed to go out and check on the cows on the other side of the ranch.

I tightened the saddle up on Shadow, glancing out the barn door to see if I could spot Daisy anywhere, but she was nowhere to be found.

Iwondered if she had run off somewhere to be alone for a while or if my dad had told her something to do. Either way, I was worried.

What am I supposed to do now? I apologized, but she didn’t want to hear it.

I’m sure I would be mad, too, if the roles were reversed.

I honestly couldn’t blame her. I probably wouldn’t want to hear any explanation either…

at least not yet, when it was still so fresh.

Maybe she was taking some time to process it all, and she would come find me later to talk… just maybe .

I took a deep breath, deciding to focus on the work I needed to do instead. I could control this, but I couldn’t control Daisy. I hopped on Shadow and let him go, feeling the adrenaline as we set off through the fields toward the far end of the ranch. I guided Shadow, giving him gentle nudges.

As we rode, my thoughts still drifted to the argument with Daisy. I could still feel the tension between us, and the weight of knowing this all fell on me was so heavy.

I focused on the nature surrounding me, bringing me some calmness when I thought of the simple joys that this way of life brings.

? ? ?

My mother and I rode on occasions together, just the two of us. The sun was shining brightly, and the wind was blowing with a gentle breeze. I could smell the flowers.

“Colt?” I looked at her, listening to her soothing voice.

“You know I want you to be happy, don’t you?

” I nodded. “If this place here brings you happiness, then stay.” She waited a minute and spoke again.

“Happiness isn’t something you find. It’s something you create.

I want you to create your own happiness, baby.

I want you to find your reason and love. ”

Her smile was beautiful. Her eyes sparkled with so much wisdom. My mom was the kindest person. She always gave the best advice, but this lesson stuck with me more than any other.

“Colt, whenever you’re feeling lost or unsure, remember to look around you. Find joy in the little things. Do things that give you peace. That is where you will find your answers and comfort.”

? ? ?

I missed my mom so much. It was times like these that I wish she were here to lend me an ear and give me some of her wisdom.

When we reached the pasture, I scanned the herd.

I hopped off Shadow, wrapping his lead around the fence.

I went inside the fence, trying to get a better look.

I counted heads to ensure everything was there.

The cows were munching on the field in the grass, some lying around to get in a nice nap.

I felt relief when I counted thirty heads.

At least everything was good for someone.

As I turned to head back to Shadow, I rubbed my head. My head was starting to thump, and I knew a headache was coming- one caused by pure stress.

As we rode back, I wondered if I needed to be the one to speak up and talk. It was my fault, after all. But, knowing Daisy, she needed time. Wouldn’t she come to me when she was ready? I could wait.

The familiar image of the house came into view.

I was anxious and worried, but I was trying to keep calm.

If I freaked out, that’s when everything would go south.

My heart sank as her perfect silhouette came into view, making her way outside the house, my dad following behind.

He was obviously keeping her busy, and I wasn’t about to approach her at this time.

I made my way out of the barn after putting Shadow back in his stall and heard my dad’s voice.

“Colt!” I turned toward the house, then started walking to get closer to him. “How are the cows?”

“All counted for.”

“Great. No issues?”

“Nope. All looks good.”

Daisy had moved past us and was now walking toward the barn.

“Daisy and I are headed to feed the horses. You go on inside and get you a bite to eat, then I need you back out here.” I nodded.

As I moved inside the house, I lingered for a moment on the porch, peering over my shoulder to catch a glimpse of Daisy and her untamed curls. My dad was walking over to Daisy, and it almost looked like he was smiling.

I wish she were ready to talk, or that I could muster up enough courage to just tell my dad what happened last night and then this morning. Maybe he would understand? He was a hard ball, but he had to remember what it felt like to have feelings for someone.