AllFreeNovel
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Before they took a chance in the wild, Finley had them ride around the arena for a week. Kieran used that time to teach her a few of the moves he’d learned with Loretta. Nellie picked up quicker than either of them anticipated. Kieran didn’t have a desire to perform dressage competitively, but it was a blast teaching Nellie the techniques, and he was looking forward to learning more himself. One day, they’d put something together to music. He thought Nellie would prefer a tune from Disturbed or Eminem over Britney Spears.
“Her first ride out in the wild,” Finley announced as they exited the barn. “Are you sure you’re ready for this? Loretta could use some exercise.”
Kieran leaned forward and mock whispered, “See how he talks about you gals when you’re not around?” He straightened in the saddle and paid close attention to Nellie’s body language. She gave off no clues that she was agitated or was about to bolt. Both her body and gait were relaxed. They’d decided to keep her to a leisurely canter to start, but Kieran was eager to see what she could do during a full-on gallop. Once he was assured of her cooperation, he filled Finley in on the conversation he’d had with Rebecca.
“So you give the idea merit when Rebecca suggests it but not me,” Finley replied. The wry smile showed he wasn’t in the least bit upset.
“You’re more than a little biased when it comes to me,” Kieran pointed out.
“True, but I would never suggest someone work with animals if they didn’t have the right temperament and tools. And you definitely have what it takes. But neither Rebecca’s opinion nor mine counts. What do you think?”
“Working with animals feels right. I’m just not sure what the next step will be.”
“We find out what opportunities are available and how to access them,” Finley replied.
We.Kieran loved how everything shifted towewith them. He’d never been half of a whole before meeting Finley. “You make everything seem possible.”
“Well, Hope Newton’s kids know there’s no such thing as impossible. Only I’m possible.”
Kieran smirked and shook his head. “Can’t believe she doesn’t have that on a T-shirt.”
“She did years ago. She swaps out her merch every year or two.”
“Wise woman,” Kieran said.
“Well, I’d have to agree since she adores you.” Finley called her a cougar at least once during Sunday family dinners, usually when she hugged Kieran or kissed his cheek.
“I adore her too.”
Kieran more than adored Hope’s son, but the words felt too big to speak out loud. He used every opportunity toshowFinley his affection, such as the long kiss they shared when the horses stopped for a drink at the stream. He ran his fingers through Finley’s hair, loving the play of light and colors where the sun had turned some strands copper and others spun gold. Kieran wanted to kiss the freckles on his nose and feel the warmth radiating off his tan skin. God, this man meant the world to him. It was scary and exhilarating, and he longed to express all the things Finley made him feel.
“I know,” Finley said, reading the emotions he couldn’t yet verbalize. “Me too.”
They shared many more kisses until it was time to return to the ranch.
“I think you can loosen the reins with Nellie on the way back if you’re comfortable with it.”
Kieran nodded eagerly. “She’s ready.”
Excitement sparked in his soul when he shifted his body weight forward and signaled with his legs for Nellie to gallop when they were nearing the ranch. The breeze whipped through his hair and the landscape around them became a blur as she ran with the wind. Her fears no longer imprisoned or hobbled her. She was regaining the parts of herself abuse had stolen. Tears stung his eyes because this sweet girl was healing, and so was he. They both owed it to the gorgeous man on the horse behind them, shouting out his relentless encouragement.
They were free.
“It’s over,” Kieran said. He’d lost track of the number of times he’d said it since leaving Denver.
“Really over,” Finley repeated. He reached over and squeezed Kieran’s hands before turning into the ranch. Cash had given them the day off, but they were eager to share the good news with him.
Still in disbelief, Kieran said, “And almost a year to the day that I arrived at Redemption Ridge.” And, wow, had things changed. Whenever Kieran caught his reflection, he didn’t recognize himself as the same person who’d stepped onto the ranch. Hope, faith, and joy had erased the cynicism from his expression and softened his harsh edges. This Kieran had a future, a family, and Finley.
“Makes your exoneration that much sweeter. Happy anniversary.”
That’s right. He also had a fucking clean record. Kieran looked over at Finley and quirked a brow. “Anniversary, huh?”
Finley smiled broadly. “Yep. I handed you my heart the moment I saw you, so our anniversary is tomorrow in my eyes.”
That was the closest they’d gotten to a verbal “I love you,” though their mutual actions loudly announced their devotion.
“I like that,” Kieran said. “Let’s go out and celebrate.”
