Chapter Four
Jane walked to Sethand Brenda’s house on Monday afternoon.Jack had invited her to learn about ranching, and she found she would accept any invitation that would allow her to spend time with him.
“Welcome to our humble spread,” came a warm voice.
Jane turned to find Jack greeting her with an open smile.“I’m excited to show you around.I’ve worked here for five years and know the ranch inside and out.”
“I can’t wait to learn about ranching.Does Seth mind that I’m here?”
Jack shook his head.“Not at all.Seth is the nicest boss who has ever lived.”He nodded toward the corral.“Let’s see the horses first.All of our horses come from either David Dailey’s ranch or Adam Kelso’s ranch.They’re the best horse trainers in this entire area.”
As they walked toward the corral, Jane smiled.“They’re so majestic!”
Jack grinned at her enthusiasm.“That they are.And each one has its own personality.Take Biscuit here,” he said, gesturing to a handsome chestnut gelding.“He’s as gentle as a lamb, perfect for a novice rider.But Pepper,” he pointed to a spirited black mare, “she’s got a mind of her own.Takes a firm hand to handle her.”
Jane watched in awe as the horses trotted around the corral, their manes flowing in the warm Texas breeze.“I’ve always wanted to learn to ride a horse!”
Jack’s eyes lit up at her words.“Well, there’s no time like the present!How about a riding lesson right now?Seth has given me the entire afternoon to just show you around.It would help you understand the ranch if you could ride.”
Jane’s heart skipped a beat at the prospect.“Really?You’d teach me?”
“Of course!It would be my pleasure.”He led her over to Biscuit and showed her how to approach the horse calmly.“Always let him see you coming, and speak softly so you don’t startle him.”
Jane followed his instructions, gently stroking Biscuit’s nose when she reached him.The horse nuzzled her hand, eliciting a delighted laugh from Jane.
“He likes you,” Jack observed with a smile.“That’s a good sign.”
Under Jack’s patient guidance, Jane learned how to saddle Biscuit and mount him properly.As she settled into the saddle, a thrill of excitement raced through her.
Jack led Biscuit by the reins into the open pasture, Jane perched atop the gentle gelding.“Hold the reins like this,” he instructed, demonstrating with his hands.“And sit up straight, keeping your heels down.”
Jane adjusted her grip and posture, determined to learn properly.As they began a slow walk around the pasture, she marveled at the sensation of the horse’s smooth gait beneath her.
“You’re a natural!”Jack praised, walking alongside her.“See how Biscuit responds to your cues?”
Jane’s heart swelled with pride as she gazed upon the majestic animal before her.She felt a deepening bond between them, a connection that seemed to transcend words.They spent the next hour leisurely exploring the vast pasture, Jack acting as their guide and pointing out various features of the ranch with an air of familiarity.
His stories were like photographs, capturing moments in time and bringing them to life with vivid details and colorful anecdotes.Jane listened intently, hanging on every word as they rode through the rolling hills and lush greenery of the ranch.It was as if they were creating their own little world within this peaceful sanctuary, sharing this special moment together.
As the sun began to dip towards the horizon, casting a golden glow across the pasture, Jack turned to Jane with a warm smile.“We should probably head back now.I don’t want to keep you out too late.”
Jane felt a pang of disappointment at the thought of their time together coming to an end.She had been so enthralled by the beauty of the ranch and Jack’s company that she had lost track of time.“I suppose you’re right,” she agreed reluctantly.“I’m having supper with Brenda and Seth.Brenda said I could invite someone if you’d like to eat with us.”
Jack smiled.“I wasn’t ready for our time to end, so that’s perfect.Let me show you how to unsaddle and wipe down Biscuit, and then we’ll go to the house.”
Jane listened attentively as Jack demonstrated the proper way to unsaddle Biscuit and groom him after their ride.His hands moved with practiced ease, and she could see the deep affection he held for the horse in his gentle touches and soothing words.
“There we go, old boy,” Jack murmured, giving Biscuit a final pat.“All set for a good rest.”
He turned to Jane with a warm smile.“Ready to head in?I’m sure Brenda has something delicious planned for supper.”
Jane nodded eagerly, her stomach rumbling at the thought of a hearty meal after their invigorating ride.As they made their way towards the house, she couldn’t help but marvel at how natural it felt to walk beside Jack, as if they had known each other for years rather than mere days.
Brenda greeted them at the door with a beaming smile, the aroma of freshly baked bread wafting out from the kitchen behind her.“Jane, Jack, come on in!Supper’s almost ready.”
As they stepped into the cozy farmhouse, Jane was struck by the warmth and love that seemed to radiate from every corner.Family photographs adorned the walls, and a well-worn Bible rested on the coffee table, a testament to the faith that anchored this household.
Seth emerged from the kitchen, wiping his hands on a dish towel.“Jack, good to see you,” he greeted with a firm handshake.“I hope Jane here hasn’t been too much trouble,” he added with a wink.
