“I’m Javier.” He holds his hand out to me, and I clasp it with my own as I connect the dots.
“The foreman.”
He drops my hand and nods. “That’s me.”
“I’m Blake.”
Javier’s face pinches then brightens as he connects his own dots. “Jennings? I knew your father.”
I shouldn’t be surprised. Daddy was born and raised here. Just because I never came around Falling Sky doesn’t mean he didn’t. But just the mention of him still makes me tighten my hands into fists, my nails digging into my palms.
“Happy to hear it.” My platitude has no enthusiasm behind it.
I’m saved from the awkward silence when Santiago finds us.
“Javi, there you are.” Santiago comes right to my side. Shadow moves, deeming me safe, I assume, and Santiago places his arm across my shoulders. “We’re taking Ace and Shadow. Ifigured while we’re out, I’d check and make sure the snow drifts haven’t gotten worse.”
Javier tips his hat. “Sounds good, boss.” He and Santiago get to work saddling the horses.
When it’s time to mount, most of my nerves have dissipated. Shadow and I have officially bonded. After that, things get difficult. Javier and Santiago coach me simultaneously, overwhelming my uneasiness.
“Be sure to look where you’re going. Your horse follows your eyes,” Javier instructs.
“Squeeze with your calves. Not a kick,” Santiago directs from atop his own horse, Ace. Ace is much bigger than Shadow and has shiny copper hair. They wait for Shadow and me and the exit of the barn, the doors wide open.
Leaning forward, I whisper to Shadow, “I just need you to follow Ace. Do that, and I’ll make sure you get a big treat.”
Shadow cranes her neck, looking at me with one eye. It’s like she’s making sure I’ll keep good on my bribe.
I hold my hand up like I’m taking a witness oath in court. “Cross my heart, babe. Do this for me, and I’ll get you…” My attention switches to Santiago. “What’s her favorite treat?”
Santiago’s brows are pinched together as he watches. “Sugar cubes.”
I return to Shadow. “I swear you’ll get sugar cubes.”
Shadow whinnies and trots to stand beside Ace. Santiago gives me a proud look. “Let’s go then.” He makes a clicking sound with his mouth, and Ace canters away. Shadow follows closely.
Behind us, I hear Javier comment, “That’s one way to do it.”
CHAPTER 13
SANTIAGO
Leave it to Blake to convince a nine-hundred-pound animal to listen to her. I’m not surprised in the slightest. Blake and Shadow seem to have bonded in the small amount of time I was gone. I doubt that horse will ever obey me again.
Gift for Blake.
Shadow quickens her speed, bringing her and Blake to my side. I’m not sure if it’s from Blake’s command or if Shadow just felt like it, but Blake remains calm and composed, adjusting to Shadow’s shifting pace.
Blake flashes me an elated smile. The cold air has turned her cheeks pink, but the temperature doesn’t seem to bother her.
“I didn’t like Manny talking to you.” The confession is out before I know it. I’m not embarrassed by it. It’s the truth.
Blake tries to make her smile go away, but to my content, I don’t think anything could wipe that smile off her face right now.
“You heard that?” she questions, her focus remaining forward, utilizing the advice Javier gave her.
“I might have to fire him for that.” I make it sound playful, but I’m seriously thinking about it.
