Page 15 of Ethan

“From the time I was twelve until I turned eighteen.”

“Why did you quit?”

“Went to college.” He shrugged. “It was time.”

“You never mentioned it.”

“You didn’t ask.” He hesitated. “I won a few times.”

Ronnie laughed. “He’s being modest. Nobody could touch him.”

“Thank you.” Ethan nodded once.

“Let me get Jewel for you.” Ronnie headed back down the aisle. “She’s been moping since you left.”

Naomi laughed softly. “I have too.”

Ethan walked back out into the sunlight and swung the trailer doors open. A minute later Ronnie appeared leading a beautiful Paint mare into the light.

He stepped back and gave them room.

Naomi walked toward the mare slowly, one hand outstretched, and Jewel’s ears came forward the moment she caught her scent. She nickered low in her throat, pressed her nose into Naomi’s chest, and Naomi wrapped both arms around her neck, burying her face in the mane.

Ethan walked to the fence and rested his arms on the top rail, his back to them, giving her the moment. Behind him he could hear her talking to the mare in a low voice, the words not meant for anyone else.

He stared out at the empty pasture and hoped whoever had bought this place took care of it because it was a gorgeous ranch.

When he finally turned around she was leading Jewel toward the trailer, her chin up, eyes bright. She glanced over at himand smiled. He nodded, then moved to help her load the mare without a word.

He latched the trailer doors, climbed into the truck, and waited for her to say her goodbyes to Ronnie.

He had a long drive home to get his head straight. He doubted it would be enough.

Chapter Three

Naomi was ready to get back to Clifton, but the ride was pure torture. She could smell his aftershave, and it smelled great. They’d been back on the road an hour and a half when Ethan slowed and put his signal on.

“Is everything alright?” Naomi asked.

“Just want to check on the horse.” He pulled into the rest area and cut the engine.

She watched him step out, close the door, and walk around to the back. She heard the trailer latch, then his footsteps inside. She sat there for a second, then opened her door and jumped down.

“Is she okay?” she called, coming around the back.

“Seems to be.” His voice came from inside. “Might not hurt for you to talk to her a minute though. Just to settle her.”

“Sure.”

She stepped up into the trailer and stopped. The space was tight with Ethan already in there, the two of them crowded in the empty stall. He caught her eye and stepped back, turning sideways to let her pass, and for just a moment there was barely a foot between them.

She kept her eyes on Jewel and moved to where he’d been standing. She ran her hand along Jewel’s neck and leaned in close, letting the mare catch her scent.

“Hey, sweet girl.” She kept her voice low and even. “You’re alright. We’re almost home.”

Jewel shifted her weight and blew out a breath, her ears relaxing forward. Naomi stroked her nose and stayed with her for a few minutes, talking quietly, until the mare settled completely.

“She’s good,” Naomi said.