07- Happening Again
Twenty-five year old Cotey Mallory walked down the aisle in her barn. Her horse, Maiden, nickered to her affectionately, as did Premie. Incense had been put down the previous summer due to a broken leg. Cotey sighed and put the hose into another water bucket and began to fill it up. She was boarding horses for Carrie and Jason, as well as several other people she was training for.
“Hey Jeeves, how ya’ doing big guy?” she asked, rubbing the tall roan between the ears. He woofed a warm breath against her cheek and she laughed. There was a noise behind her and she turned. Her friend Alan White was walking toward her, a smile on his face. “What’ve you been up to?” she demanded. He gave her a tight hug.
“Not too much. I’m getting traded to the Chiefs,” he explained. He was a professional football player that had been with the Patriots for almost three years.
“That’s a great move for you,” she said. He smiled and nodded.
“Come with me?” he asked. Cotey’s jaw dropped.
“Please tell me you’re joking,” she said. He grinned.
“Yeah. I just thought it would’ve been nice to have a familiar face.” She laughed.
“I’m sure it would’ve been. You can write to me every day and we’ll stay in touch. Or at least you better, or I’ll kick your butt.” Alan put his arm around her shoulders.
“Don’t forget who taught you all those fancy karate moves you know. I made you, I can break you,” he teased.
“Maybe. Why don’t you go get a couple bales of hay and help me feed?” she asked. Alan smiled and followed her down the aisle.
Sam Giran led his horse Law out to the training oval and glanced at his younger brother Patrick.
“I’m just going to run her the way I usually do before a big race. Tell me how she looks and give me the fractions,” he instructed. He was given a leg up into the saddle, and then the duo moved onto the track. When he was done he rode out with a smile on his face. Jason Fute, his best friend, was standing next to Patrick.
“Hey Jas, what do you think?” he asked as he dismounted and ran his stirrups up.
“I guess it was alright, but… what happened to the speed?” Jason joked.
“Very funny. How’re the wedding plans coming?” Jason and Carrie were going to be married a few weeks later. Cotey was set to be the maid of honor, and Sam was the best man.
“Pretty well. Carrie’s running around like a crazy person, trying to figure out how many napkins we’re going to need.”
“That’s understandable. Are you up for a trail ride?”
“I could be persuaded,” Jason said with a grin. Sam led Law toward the barn slowly.
“Great. Saddle Firefly and meet me out front.” Jason nodded and followed his friend into the barn.
Cotey and Carrie trotted along a path in the woods, each posting low in their saddles.
“Well, I’m just saying that Sam’s going to be Jason’s best man,” Carrie said. Cotey shrugged indifferently and slowed Jeeves to a walk.
“What’s the big deal? Sam and I are grown adults… we have lives of our own. I think I can handle standing in the same room with him for a little while.”
“You’ll have to do more than be in the same room with him,” Carrie muttered. Cotey looked at her friend seriously.
“What’re you talking about?” Carrie eased Rainy to a halt and looked over at Cotey.
“He’ll be ushering you down the aisle during the ceremony and… well you’re going to have to dance with him at the reception.”
“What? You’ve got to be kidding me,” Cotey muttered in disbelief. “Why didn’t you tell me this before now?”
“I thought you knew. Will you just try to make this work? We have rehearsal tonight at seven and I want both of you to be there and in my wedding. I’ve known both of you too long to exclude one of you.”
“Alright, but this isn’t going to be easy.” Carrie nodded and they both turned their mounts around and began to trot again. Cotey sighed and began to think about what it would be like to see Sam after all the time they’d been apart.
At the church that night Cotey and Carrie arrived early. Cotey walked up the aisle slowly and wondered how she was going to handle seeing Sam again. A noise behind her made her spin around. Sam had just rushed in, but stopped short when he saw her. After a moment he asked, “Am I late?” Cotey had put her hand on one of the pews for support.
“No,” she muttered, glancing away. Sam looked at her for a long moment. Her hair hung loose, falling almost to her waist. She was wearing a pair of jeans and a tank top. She looked wonderful.
“Great,” he said. People kept walking in, and soon rehearsal began. The organist began to play and Cotey felt someone take her arm. She glanced up, swallowing hard when she saw Sam looking down at her. They walked slowly up the aisle and at the end went their separate ways. Cotey let out a deep sigh and began to wonder if she could handle being around Sam at all.
Two weeks later Cotey was at the track. Premie was entered in a race. She didn’t realize it, but Sam and Law were entered in the same one.
“Hey girl, you ready to go kick some butt?” she asked as she put the bridle on. She had already weighed in, and it was almost time to walk to the ring. She led the mare out into the warm June sunshine and almost bumped into Sam. She stopped dead in her tracks and stared at him.
“Sorry, wasn’t watching where I was going,” he said quickly. She shook her head.
“No biggie. Why are you here?” she asked, glancing away.
“I’m in the next race. How about you?” He didn’t need an answer; she had brought her gaze up to his face and had locked eyes with him. He nodded and flashed a cocky smile. “Great. Maybe we can see who the best jockey is.” She tried to smile, but found that she couldn’t.
“Maybe.” She clucked her tongue and led Premie past him. Sam watched her go and let out a sigh.
Cotey had drawn the third gate position, and Sam had taken fifth. Cotey and Premie were a favorite, and she knew she could beat almost every horse in the field. Almost. She hadn’t been around to see Law’s training, so she had no idea how the mare was running. She went into a concentrated two-point and waited for the bell. It went off and Cotey moved to the rail, keeping a fairly easy pace. She glanced under her arm and found that Sam was moving up quickly.
“Easy girl, he’s just trying to get you to tire yourself out,” she muttered, holding the big mare back. At the far turn she gave Premie her head and they exploded. They moved along the stretch and Cotey smiled to herself. They went under the wire first and Cotey stood in her stirrups to slow down. Sam rode in behind her and smiled at her.
“I guess we know now don’t we?” he asked. Cotey shrugged and asked Premie to walk. She knew he was trying to be nice, but she couldn’t bring herself to look at him let alone be cordial. She didn’t want to get hurt again.
That night Cotey arrived for wedding rehearsal early, only to find the church empty. She walked up the aisle slowly, smiling when she saw Carrie and Jason’s priest walk in.
“Hello Father. Do you know when Jason and Carrie are supposed to be here?” she asked.
“They must not have told you. Rehearsal is canceled tonight,” he replied.
“Alright, thanks,” she said. He walked from the room and Cotey sighed. She knelt on the altar and began to pray. She didn’t hear Sam walk in. He watched her for a moment, and noticed that she was crying.
“Cotey?” he asked. She turned sharply, wiping her eyes quickly.
“There’s no rehearsal tonight. I’ll stick around and make sure nobody else comes.” He moved closer.
“Are you ok?” he asked, knowing she wasn’t. She stood and backed away.
“Of course, why wouldn’t I be?” she asked nonchalantly. Sam shrugged and took another step closer. Cotey took another step back and ran into the piano bench.
“You’re just not. You were crying when I came in.” She shrugged and glanced out the window.
“I’m fine… just have a lot on my mind,” she muttered.
“Today’s the anniversary of your father’s death isn’t it?” he asked. She turned away.
“I really don’t want to get into this Sam. I’m fine, let’s just leave it at that.” He moved another step closer, and she felt his hands come over her shoulders. She tried to pull away but his grip tightened.
“Why? You told me before that you wanted us to stay friends. I’m trying to be your friend. Talk to me… tell me what’s wrong.”
“I didn’t know that it would be so hard to pretend nothing ever happened between us when I said that. Neither one of us can do that and you know it.” She turned and looked up at him.
“Are you suggesting we stop being friends?” he asked. Cotey sighed deeply.
“Sam I hadn’t even see you since two weeks ago. I haven’t talked to you since we broke up two years ago. That isn’t a friendship.”
“Don’t look at it that way,” he muttered.
“What other way is there?” she demanded.
“Look at it like this: I care about you and I lo…” She cut him off angrily.
“Stop it! I don’t want to hear about how much you care now. It doesn’t matter anymore. It mattered two years ago.” He frowned.
“So how I feel doesn’t matter?” he demanded. She sat down on one of the steps leading to the altar.
“No. I feel differently than I did back then. I’ve grown up a whole lot, and I’m different.” He sat down next to her.
“I bet you are,” he muttered under his breath. He glanced at her and could tell she hadn’t heard him, or was choosing to ignore him.
“I’m going to head home. Jeeves has a race tomorrow morning.” She stood, hoping he’d just let her go. She heard him stand, then felt his fingers encircle her wrist. He turned her around, and she kept her gaze down. Sam sighed and lifted her chin with his thumb and forefinger.
“I know why we aren’t together anymore. You said that you changed, but have you ever thought that I did too?”
“Just let it go,” she whispered. He shook his head.
“No. I’ve been with some girls in the past two years, and I know you’ve seen some guys. The thing is that none of the girls compared to you. I fell in…” She cut him off again.
“Don’t say it! Don’t you dare try to make me feel guilty because I broke up with you,” she said angrily, pulling out of his grasp and stalking out of the church.
“You know that I love you! That’s why you’re so mad; you’re mad at yourself for knowing that there’s still something there!” he called after her. She turned, walking backwards.
“You don’t know anything about me anymore Sam, nothing at all.” She turned and continued walked. She got into her truck and started it, closing her eyes and swallowing hard before she pulled out.
The next day Cotey led Jeeves down a narrow path at the track. A group of girls stood a few feet away, eyes filled with admiration. Cotey smiled at one she knew, Jessica Michaels.
“Hey girls, how’re you all doing?” she asked.
“We’re great, thanks Cotey,” Jess answered.
“Good. Would you guys like to come down to the barn with me for awhile? I could show you around?” All of them nodded and followed her and Jeeves.
“He’s such an amazing horse. I think he’ll do a spectacular job,” Jess said as they walked. Cotey led Jeeves into his stall and then came out. Jess latched the door closed behind her.
“Me too. Are you coming up to the farm tomorrow to help with morning feeding? Free ride if you feel up to it?” The girl was seventeen, and had been helping Cotey around the barn since they had moved to Saratoga.
“Yeah. My friend Crystal is going to spend the night at my house tonight, so we’ll be there in the morning. Who can we ride?” She was standing next to Crystal, and the girl was smiling.
“Jess you can ride Jeeves if he’s looking alright after his race, and Crystal you can ride Maiden.” After a moment’s pause she continued, “Will one of you stay with Jeeves while I show the others around?” Jessica volunteered, because she had already seen the entire backside of the track.
“I’ll groom him up while you’re gone,” she offered.
“Thanks Jess. I’ll see what I can do about getting you on an escort horse in the post parade.” Jess nodded and went into the stall as her friends walked off with Cotey.
In the post parade Jess and Cotey rode side by side.
“Jess, let’s trot to that pole and then canter to the next. Then we’ll gallop back here,” Cotey said. Jess nodded and they did the simple warm up before trotting to the gate.
“I’ll see you after the race. Good luck,” Jess said as Cotey and Jeeves loaded into the gate. She went into a two-point and galloped to the in gate. Cotey smiled to herself and then concentrated on the race ahead.
“Let’s show the world that you’ve got what it takes,” she murmured right before the bell rang. They broke clean and Cotey took him to the inside. They moved along rapidly and Cotey fought to hold him back. “Don’t push it big guy,” she muttered. They went around the far turn and Cotey began to let him out slowly. They passed the first horse and raced toward the finish. When they went under the wire Cotey stood in the stirrups and pulled him back to a walk. Jess was waiting when Cotey rode to the winner’s circle. When pictures had been taken, Jess held the big stallion so Cotey could dismount. The girl had taken to Jeeves the first time she’d seen him, so Cotey had made him his groom.
“Great job Cotey. He really kicked into gear on that turn didn’t he?” Jess said excitedly. Cotey grinned.
“Thanks Jess. Why don’t you take him up to the barn and get him cooled?” she suggested. Jess nodded and led Jeeves away. Cotey looked up at the crowd and waved at Jason and Carrie. They waved back, and so did Sam who was sitting next to them.
That evening Cotey rode Maiden around an exercise ring. The mare was doing an extended canter, and Cotey was smiling. She was wearing breeches and high boots, and her hair was pulled back in a long French braid. There was a noise behind them that caused Maiden to lose her concentration. Cotey tapped her shoulder with a crop and Maiden kept going. Cotey smiled as they came around the corner, realizing what Maiden’s distraction had been. Jason and Carrie were standing by the fence hand in hand.
“Hey, what’s going on with you two?” Cotey asked, easing Maiden to a walk.
“Not much. We came to see if we could work with our guys before the party? If you’re busy we could come back,” Jason said.
“No, go ahead and get tacked up. She’s pretty much done, and so am I. After that race this afternoon I’m bushed.” The couple started to walk toward the barn and Cotey called, “Jas could you ride first? I have to talk to Carrie about something.” Jason nodded.
“I would love to ride first. Want me to take Maiden for you?” She nodded and handed him the reins. Both girls watched as Jason disappeared into the barn. Cotey took her helmet and gloves off and looked at Carrie.
“Let’s go.” She led Carrie up to the deck. Carrie plopped down in one of the deck chairs and Cotey perched on the railing.
“So what’s going on?” Carrie asked, pulling her shoulder length curly blonde hair off of her neck.
“I’m not really sure. It’s about Sam. I don’t know what to do anymore. Whenever I see him I just want to… throw myself into his arms and forget the past two years ever happened.” Carrie looked at her friend seriously.
“Do you want him back?” Carrie asked. Cotey shook her head.
“No… of course not. I think that I was just with him so long that it’s just habit to want that. We never really had to be around each other after we broke up, so I never had to deal with it.” Carrie shrugged.
“Then you should just forget about it. If you’re sure that is. You guys were together for a long time, so nobody would be surprised if you got back together.”
“That isn’t what I want. At least I don’t think it is,” Cotey murmured. Carrie stood and went to her friend’s side.
“If you’re not sure, then you should think about it a lot more seriously than you have been,” she said, patting her friend’s knee and walking down to the barn.
Early the next morning Cotey awoke to the sound of giggling outside. She sat up and looked out her window. Jess and Crystal were sitting on one of the fences, smiles on their faces. Cotey smiled and grabbed a pair of breeches and a sweatshirt. When she was dressed, she pulled her long hair into a ponytail and put on her boots. By the time she got to the barn, the girls were already in the barn filling feed buckets.
“Morning guys. Sorry I wasn’t up when you got here. There was a party for Carrie and Jason last night and it ran pretty late.” Jess grinned.
“We’ll forgive you, just this once,” Jess teased.
“Thanks a lot. Let’s get this done so we can go on our ride. It didn’t take them long to finish. After giving the horses a little while to digest, the trio saddled up and rode out of the stable yard. Cotey was riding her horse Romeo, Crystal was riding Maiden, and Jess was riding Jeeves. Cotey swung into the saddle and glanced at the girls.
“Let’s go out on the cross-country course. Jess keep your guard up. He can do this with his eyes closed, but sometimes he gets a bit too excited.” Jess nodded and they trotted out of the stable yard. When they reached the beginning of the course Cotey pulled up. “Jess, why don’t you tell Crystal a little bit about the course while I go out and make sure everything looks ok?” Cotey asked. Jess nodded and watched as Cotey trotted away.
“Alright, well the course is really great,” Jess began.
When Cotey returned she found the girls trotting around the field in two-points. Jess was in a tight jockey’s crouch, practicing for her apprenticeship test. Crystal was in a jumping two-point, balancing just over her horse’s neck. When they came around they pulled up.
“How’s he being?” Cotey asked. Jess shrugged.
“He’s alright, just a little excited.” Cotey frowned, looking at Jeeves critically. The stallion was tossing his head and pawing at the ground.
“Gallop him around the field once or twice to see if that takes some of the spunk out of him,” she instructed. Jess obeyed. When they returned Cotey took a deep breath. “Alright, you can stay on him. If he gives you any trouble I want you to just canter along the path that runs along the course.” Jess nodded and they began the course. Cotey went first, and then the girls followed. Cotey went over the first jump and smiled. She hadn’t jumped in a long time, but she had really missed it.
Two weeks later Cotey arrived at the church. It was Carrie and Jason’s wedding day, and Cotey was responsible for helping Carrie get ready for the big day. Cotey walked to the bridal dressing room and smiled. Carrie was just beginning to get her dress on.
“Hey, looking good,” she said. Carrie whirled, a smile on her face. She rushed to Cotey and threw her arms around her.
“I’m so glad you’re here!” she exclaimed. Cotey grinned.
“Me too. How do I look?” Carrie looked at her friend and smiled.
“You look gorgeous.” Cotey was wearing a hunter green satin dress. It was held up by spaghetti straps.
“Thanks. I’ve been working to lose some of this gut,” she kidded, patting her flat, rock hard stomach.
“You’re ridiculous.” Carrie sat down so her veil could be secured in her hair. “It’s almost time for me to walk down that aisle isn’t it?” she murmured, a note of nervousness seeping into her voice.
“You’re going to be fine once you get out there and see Jas waiting for you at the end of the aisle.” Carrie nodded. After a moment she looked up at Cotey seriously.
“Cotey, you and Sam aren’t going to do anything to embarrass us today will you? I know that sounds horrible… I just want this day to be perfect.”
“Don’t worry about it. I’m adult enough to handle a wedding.”
“Don’t forget the reception. Jason’s looking forward to dancing with you… and so am I.” They collapsed into a fit of giggles.
Sam took Cotey’s elbow gently and they walked slowly down the aisle. Cotey smiled as people began to take pictures. Sam muttered something she couldn’t quite catch, so she glanced up at him. He flashed a grin. They had reached the stairs, so he released her elbow. Cotey watched as Carrie walked in on the arm of her father and smiled at her. Carrie grinned back and winked. Cotey looked to where Jason and Sam were standing and found Sam looking at her seriously. She looked away quickly, scared of the thoughts turning in her head.
At the reception hall Cotey sat next to Carrie at the head table, waiting anxiously for the first dance.
“You looked wonderful walked down that aisle,” Cotey said with a smile. Carrie grinned.
“I never thought we’d end up married. Even after being together for so long, it’s hard to believe.
“You two have an amazing relationship. Sometimes I wish that I’d been so lucky,” she muttered, glancing away before Carrie saw the tears threatening to fall.
“You were and still are lucky. Everyone knows he still loves you. You’re just trying to stay away from him because you both hurt each other so much before.” Cotey didn’t look at her.
“That’s not true. I don’t love him anymore… you of all people should know that.” Carrie put a hand on Cotey’s shoulder and turned her gently. She saw the pain and confusion in Cotey’s eyes.
“Cotey, you can’t kid me any more than you can kid yourself. If neither one of us is fooled, I highly doubt Sam is. He knows you as well as he knows the back of his hand. All you have to do is give him another chance. Either way, he’s going to win you back. It’ll either be easy or hard depending on how you want to do it.” Cotey didn’t say anything, knowing her friend was probably right.
“Alright! Let’s get Carrie and Jason out on the dance floor for their first dance. Jason has picked a very special song, so come on!” the DJ said into the microphone. Carrie stood and looked at her friend as the lights dimmed.
“No running away… you and Sam get to join in soon.” Cotey looked up and forced a smile.
“I don’t run away from anything, least of all Sam Giran,” she replied. The song ‘You’re the Inspiration’ by Chicago came on and Carrie and Jason began to dance. Cotey took a deep breath and moved to stand at the edge of the dance floor. Sam stood directly across from her, and she knew without looking that he was watching her. The DJ called for the wedding party to join in and Cotey walked onto the dance floor. Sam met her halfway. He put his hands on her waist and she draped her arms around his neck loosely. He looked at her seriously.
“Come on C, let’s make this look like you don’t mind being here,” he murmured, pulling her closer. She drew in a shaky breath and wrapped her arms more tightly around his neck. He smiled softly, but never moved his eyes from hers. Cotey sighed, wanting to forget they had ever broken up. She knew she couldn’t do that though, and she frowned. “Smile beautiful, or I’ll give you something to smile about,” he warned. She forced a smile.
“Don’t threaten me Sam, or you’ll live to regret it,” she shot back. He grinned.
“I think I missed this about you most, how you could put me in my place. Or maybe I missed holding you. You feel good here Cotey,” he said, his eyes searching hers. The song was ending and the words “When you love someone ‘til the end of time,” were coming from the speakers. He leaned closer and kissed her very gently. Cotey swallowed hard and pushed him away. Sam looked at her for another moment. “I thought so,” he whispered, pulling away as the last not ended. Cotey watched as he walked away, knowing what he was talking about without having to ask.
When Cotey got home that night it was past midnight. She’d had one of her stable hands feed the horses, but she decided to check on them anyway. She changed into jeans and a sweatshirt and walked down to the barn. She walked up the aisle slowly, trying not to disturb any of the animals. Suddenly Maiden swung her head over her stall door and nickered softly. Cotey smiled and let herself in.
“Hey girl, you in the mood for a ride?” she murmured. Maiden bobbed her head and Cotey got her bridle. “You better not throw me off or anything,” she muttered. She used a mounting block and settled herself gently on Maiden’s bare back. They trotted across the gravel driveway and down the dirt road. Cotey sighed and rode on, barely thinking of the horse beneath her. She went to her upper pasture and dismounted. The night was clear and all the stars were out. Cotey sat down on the slightly damp grass, and then lay back, holding her reins in her hand. She thought back to the dance with Sam and sighed. “Now he knows what you’re thinking you idiot,” she muttered to herself. “You shouldn’t have looked him in the eye,” she whispered.
The next day Cotey trailered a thoroughbred she’d been training to the track. The owner was a very wealthy man, and also an acquaintance; he was Sam’s father.
“Hello Mr. Giran,” she said with a smile when he approached the stall. He smiled.
“Hey there Cotey. How’s my beast?” Cotey grinned and shrugged as she rubbed the animal’s nose.
“I think the beast has fallen. He’s doing really well in training, and I think he could win the purse today.”
“Great. I’m sure he will. I’d like to thank you for all the hard work you’ve done with him. Are you going to be riding today?” She looked at him, a frown on her face.
“I thought I’d be riding him,” she said, patting the big stallion. Mr. Giran shook his head.
“No, I thought I’d told you… I’m putting Sam up. I think he’ll do a good job against the field.”
“Do you mean to tell me that I’ve been working for three months for nothing? I’ve got to warn you that he hasn’t had anyone else on him in months. I don’t know how well he’ll take to a new jock.” She started to walk away, but thought of something. “Did you inform the officials of the change? They have it as Cotey Mallory on number four.” His face fell.
“I haven’t informed anyone yet.” Cotey drew in a shaky breath at the sound of footsteps approaching and stopping behind her. Without looking she knew it was Sam.
“I guess Cotey’s going to ride then,” Sam said. Cotey turned and swallowed hard. He was wearing jeans and a white T-shirt.
“You’re right son. Next time I’ll make sure you go up,” Mr. Giran promised, turning and walking away. Sam and Cotey stood staring at one another for a moment.
“Isn’t it funny how he’s trying to make up for all the things he never did with me before? If he had just done them in the first place…” he trailed off and stepped closer to her. She was caught in his probing stare, and knew what his intentions were. He took another step toward her, and she backed into the open tack room. Sam pulled the door shut and moved so she was backed against the wall.
“Sam,” she whispered. He shook his head and put one of his hands on either side of the wall by her head.
“What?” he asked. Cotey drew in a deep breath, trying to think rationally.
“Don’t do this,” she said, trying to sound firm. She couldn’t see the smile on his lips, but she saw the one in his eyes.
“Do what? All I want is a thank you.” Cotey’s eyes narrowed angrily.
“Thank you? For what?” she demanded. Sam didn’t move away, and to Cotey’s relief, didn’t move closer.
“For getting my father to let you ride.” She glared up at him.
“He would’ve had to let me, no matter what you said. He didn’t inform anyone of the change, and it’s half an hour before race time.” Sam smiled again and moved a little closer. She swallowed hard when their bodies touched.
“No need to get so defensive,” he murmured. She sighed and tried to duck under his arm. Sam caught her around the waist and pulled her into his chest. “Don’t even think about it. I’m not done talking to you yet,” he whispered, his mouth inches away from her ear. Cotey drew in a deep breath.
“Let me go Sam,” she said, trying to sound calm and in control. He shook his head, turning her to face him.
“What’s the matter? Don’t like it here anymore?” he murmured. With a slight hesitation Cotey shook her head.
“I wouldn’t have broken up with you if I wanted to be here,” she replied.
“I don’t believe you. I think you want this more than you’re ready to admit. You can’t fool me C, your eyes give you away.”
“I don’t know what you’re talking about,” she muttered. The smile reappeared on his face, making him almost irresistible.
“Don’t you? Maybe I’d better remind you then,” he murmured. As he pulled her closer, Sam reminded himself to take it slow. Part of him wanted her to go through hell the way he had. His lips settled over hers for a moment in a teasing kiss. He pulled away suddenly, catching the confused and hurt look in her eyes. He swallowed hard and forced himself to brush past her and walk out.
Mr. Giran invited Cotey for a victory dinner that night after she had won the race. She walked into the restaurant wearing a white dress that showed off her legs. She sighed when she saw Sam sitting at the table with his parents.
“Hello Cotey, you look lovely,” Mr. Giran said. She smiled at the man and his wife and sat down next to Sam. He leaned closer while his parents were talking.
“You look gorgeous,” he whispered. She felt her face grow warm and glanced up to see if his parents had noticed their exchange. Sam grinned at the uncomfortable look on her face. She turned and caught the smile on his face and elbowed him squarely in the ribs. Sam sucked in his breath sharply.
“You’d better knock it off Sam, or I’m going to get up and leave,” she muttered. Sam nodded and decided he’d better cool it. He didn’t want her to leave; she had yet to dance with him.
After dinner had been served and eaten, Mr. and Mrs. Giran stood and walked out to the dance floor. Cotey stood and got ready to leave, but Sam caught her wrist.
“Leaving so soon?” he asked, sliding out of the booth and standing close beside her.
“Yes. I need to get home and take care of the horses,” she explained.
“Is that the only thing you ever think about Cotey? Horses?” he demanded. She looked up at him and smiled a little.
“Jealous Sam?” He frowned and Cotey smiled triumphantly. “I really need to get going.” She tried to pull her hand from his, but his hold tightened.
“You have time for a dance,” he muttered, leading her to the dance floor. The song ‘Scientist’ by Coldplay was playing. She sighed as he put his arms around her, not believing she was letting this happen. He pulled her close so she had no choice but to rest her cheek on his shoulder. She swallowed hard and tried to make herself believe that the song was making her feel the way she was. Sam’s father and mother danced closer to them.
“Son, we’re going to get going. There’s a party we’re suppose to be at. Great job today Cotey,” he said. Sam smiled softly and rubbed the small of Cotey’s back gently. He felt her draw in a deep breath.
“Ok. I’ll see you two later,” he said. Once they were gone he glanced down at her. They were still swaying to the music, and her forehead was resting against his chin. “DO you need a ride home?” he asked. She shook her head and pulled away.
“I can walk.” She started to step away, but he held on to her waist firmly.
“I don’t want to worry about anything happening to you on the way home.”
“I’ve taken care of myself for a long time Sam, and I’ll continue to do so.” She pulled away and went to their booth. Sam watched as she grabbed her leather jacket and stalked out. When she got home she realized her mistake; she’d grabbed Sam’s jacket instead of her own.
Cotey sat in her bedroom that night thinking about all that had happened in the past few days. Jess was asleep in the guest room. The seventeen year old still hated to stay alone when her father was out of town. They had spent the day at the track together at the track, starting out early. Now it was late, and despite the busy day Cotey still couldn’t sleep. Suddenly the doorbell rang, and she jogged downstairs to answer the door. She opened it and drew in a deep breath when she who it was. Sam was leaning against the door jam, her jacket tossed casually over his shoulder and his free hand resting on his hip, thumb hooked into a belt loop. He smiled a little.
“I thought you might want this back. I know I miss mine,” he said, glancing away. “I like the boxers.” Cotey glanced down at the baggy shorts and white tank top she was wearing, giving a shrug. She could feel her face growing warm, and was glad the lights were out.
“I didn’t even realize I’d taken yours,” she muttered.
“Can I come in?” he asked.
“Yeah, sure. Let me get yours… I think it’s in the living room.” She waited until he was in the house, and then closed the door behind him. She walked through the house and to the living room. His jacket was thrown over the back of a chair. She grabbed it and turned, almost running into Sam. She backed up and almost fell over the chair in her haste to put distance between them. He caught her arm and steadied her.
“You ok?” he asked softly. She nodded, the feeling of his hand on her bare arm causing her thoughts to spin.
“Yeah. Here’s your jacket,” she stuttered. Sam shook his head.
“We both know that my jacket has practically nothing to do with why I’m here. I could care less about the damn jacket. Hell, you can keep the jacket,” he said, his voice steadily rising.
“Sam, keep your voice down,” she whispered.
“Why? Don’t you want the neighbors to hear?” he demanded, his voice dropping. Cotey shook her head and opened her mouth to explain that Jess was upstairs, but Sam shook his head and brought his lips over hers. Cotey tried not to react, but failed miserably. After a moment she wrapped her arms around him and moved closer. When their bodies touched he moaned and pulled away. He caught the look on her face and silently cursed himself. She looked up at him, searching his eyes for a reason for what he was doing. “What’s the matter? Don’t like playing games?” he muttered. Cotey frowned and tried to pull away.
“Let go of me!” she exclaimed.
“Careful, the neighbors might hear,” he murmured. There was a noise from the doorway.
“Sam!” a voice exclaimed. Sam let go of Cotey and turned. Jess stood in the doorway, a smile on her pretty face.
“Hey Jessi, what’s going on?” he asked as she hurried toward him and threw her arms around him.
“I don’t know… why don’t you guys tell me?” she suggested, glancing at Cotey.
“Cotey grabbed my jacket last night, and I stopped by to get it.” Jess nodded and started from the room.
“OK. Well I’ll let you two get back to… getting Sam’s jacket,” she muttered, disappearing up the stairs.
“Why didn’t you tell me she was here?” he demanded angrily.
“I tried to! You were a bit too eager paying attention to other things to listen,” she whispered. Sam turned and walked toward the front door. “What about your jacket?”
“I told you already, I don’t give a damn about the jacket. Keep it. That way I have an excuse to come back.” She watched as he sauntered out to his truck and drove away.
Almost a week later Cotey went to Sam’s farm to exercise one of Mr. Giran’s horses. The Giran farm and hers were separated by a large stretch of woods that were connected by trails, although they were rarely used to get back and forth between the two places. Cotey arrived, wearing a pair of breeches, a white t-shirt, and high boots. Mr. Giran had called her about a stallion that no one had been able to get to work yet. Sam, Mr. Giran, and Jason stood at the training oval with a pure black stallion.
“What’s his name?” she asked.
“This is Sierra. He’s been a little reluctant to accept us. He won’t do anything we ask. I’ve tried, Jason tri…” Cotey cut him off with a sharp glance.
“That’s enough,” she muttered. Sam watched as she took the reins from Jason and talked to the stallion for a moment. “Give me a leg up Jas,” she said. Jason did as she said. Cotey sat deeply in the saddle and rode toward the gate that led to the oval.
“Cotey are you…” She glared at him and sighed.
“Just open the gate and time us,” she ordered. Sam did as she said and the group watched as Cotey trotted Sierra around the oval. They cantered next, then began to gallop. Sierra tossed his head and tried to get his head down to buck. “No you don’t. We had a deal Sierra,” she muttered. He flicked his ears back, but kept pulling on the reins. Cotey told him to canter mid buck, and he had no choice but to obey. They began to gallop again and Cotey went into a concentrated two-point. After they’d gone half way around, Cotey stood in her stirrups and pulled on the reins gently. Sierra skidded to a halt, and Cotey toppled over his shoulder and landed with a thud on the ground. She rolled her eyes and watched as Sierra trotted off.
“Are you ok?” Sam demanded, jogging toward her. She sat up and nodded.
“How many times do I have to tell you to get the horse before you worry about me? Go take care of him,” she said. Sam turned and went toward the big stallion. Jason approached her with a smile on his face.
“Are you going to make it?” he asked. She grinned and let him help her up. Sam was leading Sierra toward the gate and she jogged toward him.
“What are you doing? Bring him back over here!
she called. Sam led the big stallion over reluctantly and Jason gave her a boost into the saddle. Sam shot Jason a look that clearly said get lost. Jason smiled up at her and patted her knee.
“Good luck Cotey,” he murmured, walking off the track.
“You don’t need to do this you know,” he muttered. Cotey stared at him.
“Sure I do,” she replied. Sam sighed softly and put his hand on the outside of her thigh.
“You don’t’ have to prove to anyone that you can handle him. This has happened to everyone who’s ridden him so far.”
“I’m not trying to prove anything! I’m trying to help you and your father get this horse into racing condition. He has talent, he just needs to learn who the boss is. Apparently nobody has taught him that yet.” She squeezed with her legs and Sierra walked on. Sam stalked off the track and glanced at Jason.
“For once in the past two months I’m being sincere and she gets mad at me,” he muttered.
“What do you expect?” Jason replied.
“Some best friend,” Sam said. Jason laughed and pointed at Cotey. She and Sierra were moving along at a ground eating gallop.
“She’s never been up there to prove anything, and she never will be.” Sam nodded and watched as they trotted out of the oval.
“He’s amazing once he gets moving,” she said with a bright smile. Mr. Giran stood nearby watching his son. There was a look of sincere admiration in Sam’s eyes.
“You sure showed him who was boss,” Jason told her. She dismounted and smiled when he put his arm around her shoulders.
“I guess. I’ll take him up to the barn and get him cooled off.” Before she left she turned to Sam and said, “You know, I think Jess could’ve handled him. Maybe you can ask her the next time you need your jacket.” She turned and led Sierra away. Jason looked at Sam with confused eyes, but Sam just smiled.
That night Cotey threw clothes into her suitcase frantically, knowing that her flight to the Bahamas was leaving in two hours. When the suitcase was full she rushed downstairs and grabbed a jacket from the closet. She opened the door just as the doorbell rang, and ran smack into Sam.
“What’s wrong?” he demanded, grabbing her shoulders and looking at her tearstained face.
“Not now ok? I’ll explain later, just let go now.” He released her and watched as she jogged out to her truck and tossed the suitcase in. She jogged back to the house and grabbed her keys. As she locked the front door and went back to the truck, she could hear him following her. He caught her arm and turned her.
“What’s going on?” he demanded. She sighed and glanced at her watch.
“Jason and Carrie can explain. I have a plane to catch,” she muttered. She tried to pull away but he didn’t let go.
“Wait a minute. Where the hell are you going?” he demanded.
“Aunt Caro got into a riding accident down on the island. Mr. Man took her through a fence. Please let me go so I can make my plane,” she begged.
“You can use my dad’s jet. All I have to do is…” She shook her head.
“I don’t want any favors Sam.” He sighed and followed her toward the truck.
“It isn’t a favor. I’m doing it because I want to. Let’s go, I’ll call Dad from the car phone.” He got her suitcase out of her truck, and she followed him to his truck mutely, not knowing what else to do.
When they arrived in the Bahamas Cotey and Sam took a taxi to the hospital. Cotey hurried down the hall and stopped at the nurses’ station.
“What room is Caro Bartholomew in?” Cotey demanded. The woman looked up.
“You’re her niece Cotey right?” she asked. Cotey sighed impatiently and save gave her shoulder a gentle squeeze.
“Yes. Could you please just tell me what room she’s in?”
“Room 140. We’re all praying for her,” the nurse said. Cotey nodded and walked toward the room. Sam followed silently. They walked into the ICU unit and found Caro. She was hooked up to several machines. Cotey swallowed hard and bit her bottom lip to keep from crying.
“Cotey?” Sam murmured. She turned without thinking, and found herself much too close to him. A lone tear slipped down her cheek and he frowned. “Don’t,” he whispered, brushing the tear away.
“Don’t do this now ok? Wait until we leave please,” she begged. He nodded and watched as she turned back to her aunt’s bed. He wrapped his arms around her waist and she leaned back against him, putting her hands on top of his.
Cotey and Sam checked into a hotel nearest the hospital. It was late, but she couldn’t seem to get to sleep. She sat on the balcony in a pair of cutoffs and a sweatshirt. A knock on the door made her turn.
“Come in!” she called, thinking it was room service with her late night snack. A pair of strong hands slid over her shoulders. “Hey Sam,” she muttered. Sam smiled and stood there in silence for a moment.
“Are you ok?” he asked. She shook her head slowly, continuing to stare out at the ocean. Her long hair was blowing in the wind.
“No.”
“I know that you didn’t want me to come with you, but I didn’t want you to be alone.”
“It’s ok.” They were silent again. Cotey stared out at the waves rolling in… his hands were still on her shoulders.
“I love you. I don’t know you believe that, but I do,” he said suddenly.
“Please don’t do this now,” she said softly. Sam sighed and gave her shoulders a gentle squeeze.
“I’m sorry. You should get some sleep or you’ll be too tired to move tomorrow morning.” She stood slowly and looked at him.
“There’s no way I’ll be able to sleep,” she muttered, going back into the room. He followed.
“Do you want me to stay?” She hesitated and he said, “I won’t take it the wrong way if you do. I know you don’t want to be alone.” She nodded.
“OK.” He nodded and went back out to the balcony. Cotey changed into a tank top and shorts and sat down on the edge of the bed. Sam stood out in the darkness well after Cotey had fallen asleep.
Cotey woke the next morning wrapped up in a pair of strong arms. She rolled over and came face to face with a sleeping Sam. For an instant she couldn’t remember what had happened the previous night. When she did, she sighed with relief. She sat up carefully and got out of bed to go out onto the balcony. The sun was shining brightly, and she could see people down on the beach. She sighed and pulled her hair from its ponytail. A noise behind her made Cotey turn. Sam was leaning against the door jam wearing only a pair of jeans the rode low on his hips. Cotey swallowed hard and turned back to the view.
“Do you always sneak up on people?” she demanded.
“Nope, just you,” he said, walking closer. She sighed but didn’t reply. He watched as she shivered in the breeze and put his hands on her upper arms and rubbed a little.
“I need to get dressed,” she murmured. Sam nodded and watched her hair as it blew in the wind. “Stop staring at me,” she said suddenly.
“Sorry. I was just thinking that people who come here for how beautiful it is are stupid.”
“Why’s that?” she asked, turning to look up at him. He smiled and touched her cheek.
“All they have to do is come to Saratoga and take some riding lessons from you.” She looked away.
“You need to stop doing this. You’re going to end up hurt, and I don’t want that to happen.”
“Too late, it already did.” She sighed and walked back into the room.
“I’ll be out in a couple minutes. You might want to get dressed. I’m going to the hospital right after my shower.” He nodded and watched with sad eyes as she disappeared into the bathroom.
Three days later Caro Bartholomew died. Cotey was devastated but tried not to let on just how much it hurt. The funeral was crowded, and Cotey had to squeeze through the crowd.
“Sorry,” she muttered. She sat down in the front pew with a sigh. A hand came over her shoulder and she looked up. Sam was standing beside her wearing a suit and tie.
“Sorry I’m late. Dad took his dear sweet time getting the suit to me,” he muttered. She scooted over so he could sit down.
“There’s no rush. She’s dead,” she muttered. Sam sighed and squeezed her hand. After the ceremony they drove to the cemetery. Cotey watched for a long time, thinking that she would be all alone soon and would be able to cry. Sam took her elbow and she looked up at him.
“Let’s get going,” he murmured. “The jet’s leaving in an hour.” She nodded and let him lead her to the car. He looked at her for a long moment. “Are you sure you’re ok?” he asked.
“Yeah. I just want to get home.” He nodded and started the rental car. Cotey looked at his profile for a long moment before turning her attention to the window to watch the scenery pass them by.
Sam pulled into the driveway at Cotey’s house and walked around to open her car door. She smiled and walked toward the house. Carrie and Jason walked out and each gave her a hug.
“Are you ok?” Carrie asked. Cotey took a deep breath and nodded.
“Yeah. I’m going to go out for a ride, ok?” When they hesitated she smiled. “I just want some time to myself guys.” They nodded and watched as she turned to Sam. “Thank you for going with me. You didn’t’ have to do that.” He wrapped his arms around her and hugged her tightly.
“Anytime. Go out and relax,” he murmured. She nodded and went to the barn. Moments later they saw Cotey ride out on Maiden.
“So what happened?” Carrie and Jason demanded in the same voice.
Cotey galloped along, a soft smile on her face. They went through a deep puddle, and arrived at the field. She let Maiden go around the perimeter once, closing her eyes and feeling the wind whipping against her face and through her hair. Cotey pulled up and sighed. “You know Maiden, sometimes I think you’re the best friend I’ve ever had,” she murmured. With a smile she turned and let Maiden walk back toward the house on a free rein.
Back at the house Jason and Carrie sat staring at Sam in disbelief.
“You’re trying to tell us nothing happened?” Carrie demanded.
“That’s what I said,” he replied. Jason shook his head slowly.
“You’re losing your touch Sam,” he kidded. Sam shook his head and stood.
“No, I’m losing her.” Jason and Carrie watched as he walked out the door. Carrie looked at Jason and frowned.
“You’d think that if they wanted to be with each other they’d just stop fighting about it. Why don’t they just give up?”
“They’re both too stubborn. Cotey doesn’t want to lose, and Sam wants to win too much.”
When Cotey returned jess was sitting on the fence. Cotey sighed softly.
“Cotey is…” Jess began. Cotey held up her hand.
“Let me take care of Maiden first Jess,” she said. Jess nodded and watched Cotey lead Maiden into the barn. When she returned she climbed up next to her.
“Is Caro ok?” Jess demanded. The girl had known Caro for a long time, and had loved and respected her deeply.
“Jess, she died,” Cotey said. Jess swallowed hard and shook her head.
“What happened? Nobody told me what happened… just that she had an accident.”
“She was riding Man and he took her through a fence. It was an accident, and she died peacefully. She died how she would’ve wanted.” Jess turned and looked at Cotey, her long blonde hair falling over her shoulders.
“Just because she died riding doesn’t make it any better you know. My mother died riding, and it didn’t make it better… it made it worse.” Cotey sighed.
“I know. I loved her two kiddo.” Jess nodded and the two friends hugged. Cotey sighed softly and closed her eyes against the tears.
Later that day Cotey went to Sam’s to ride Sierra. Sam had the big stallion waiting. She went to the animal’s side and patted his neck.
“Hey big guy,” she murmured. Sierra nudged her arm and she smiled. “Nice to see you too.” She glanced at Sam and moved back to stand with her hands up on his saddle. Sam gave her a boost into the saddle and she rode out to the track. Sam watched as she put Sierra through a great workout. He smiled at her when she rode out.
“That looked great C,” he said. She nodded and dismounted.
“Thanks. He’ll be great when he gets use to a different jockey.” Sam frowned.
“Dad wants you as jock. I told him I’d ask, but if you don’t want to do it I’ll tell him. He might not let you slip away though, you’re the only one who can control him.” She frowned.
“If someone would just get on him and ride, maybe they’d be able to control him. From what I can tell, he throws someone and they call it a day. I don’t think I’ll be able to ride him… I have my own horses that need attention,” she muttered, dismounting carefully.
“What’s got you so upset with me?” he demanded.
“I’m just not in the mood for all this right now. My aunt just died, and I’m not going to do everything your father tells me to do. This is your farm, and I don’t think you should be letting him tell you how to run it.” She grabbed Sierra’s reins and led him toward the barn. When she got there, Carrie was standing by Sierra’s stall. “Hey,” Cotey muttered, leading Sierra in.
“Hey. I heard what you said to Sam,” she said. Cotey turned and frowned.
“So? I’m not going to apologize because I meant it. I don’t want a relationship with Sam… I’m sick of him acting like there’s something there when there’s not.”
“Can you stop lying to everyone? I know that you care about him Cotey. He knows it too. Why can’t you just admit that you love him and stop this stupid fighting?”
“It isn’t a fight! Sam and I broke up and that’s the end of it.”
“No it’s not. If it was the end, you wouldn’t have spent the last week if the Bahamas with him. You would have told him to stay home.”
“Nothing happened when we were there!” Cotey exclaimed, letting herself out of the stall and walking toward the tack room with Sierra’s saddle and bridle. Carrie followed.
“I know that. Sam told us that…” Carrie trailed off when she realized what she was saying. Cotey turned and looked at her friend with hard, angry eyes.
“Have you guys just been sitting around plotting behind my back to get us back together?” she demanded. Carrie’s gaze dropped and Cotey shook her head in disbelief. “You have, haven’t you? I don’t want you to interfere in my life again Carrie, do you understand that?” she asked. Carrie nodded and watched as Cotey stalked out.
Cotey got home twenty minutes later, still fuming about Carrie. She walked through the barn and began to open stall doors. It was getting late and it was time to bring the horses in. As she was walking out to get the first horses, Sam stepped into her path. She stopped and looked into his angry eyes indifferently.
“What now?” she demanded. He didn’t answer so she sighed and said, “I’ve tried to be nice about this Sam, but you don’t seem to understand…” He shook his head, putting his hands on her shoulders.
“I don’t care how nice you are. I’m going to love you no matter what, so get use to it! You had no right to yell at Carrie the way you did,” he said angrily.
“Excuse me? She had no right to get involved, and be a part of some crazy scheme to get me back together with you. We’re twenty-five years old Sam, I think this a little immature. This has nothing to do with Carrie.”
“Carrie has been involved from the moment we broke up. It hurt them, and it hurt me. Carrie had every right to get involved now. She’s your friend and she cares about you.”
“She had no right to second guess my decisions!” she exclaimed. Sam backed her against the wall and kissed her hard. She swallowed and put her hands on his waist. Sam moved away slightly.
“I think you’ve been second guessing them all along,” he murmured against her lips. She shook her head and looked at him with sad eyes.
“No I haven’t been,” she whispered. He kissed her again.
“Don’t lie to me Damnit,” he said softly, kissing her neck. She put one hand on the back of his head.
“I’m not lying,” she promised. He looked at her seriously and sighed.
“I don’t believe you. You’re scared I’m going to hurt you again, and you have every right to be. Please don’t push me away and tell me you don’t want this.”
“I don’t want this,” she said softly. He stepped away and leaned against the wall. She heard his head hit the boards several times before she pushed away from the wall and went out to bring the horses in.
Cotey smiled at Jess’s father the next day. She was going to exercise his horse, Monster Man.
“You ready Cotey?” he asked. Cotey nodded, but her mind kept replaying the previous day’s events with Sam.
“Of course. I’m always up for a challenge.” She got a leg into the saddle and rode onto the track. They galloped along and Cotey fought to keep him out on the rail. Her mind kept wandering and she cursed softly. There was a horse ahead of them, and Monster fought to keep rushing toward it. At the last minute he swerved and bucked. Cotey flew off and was hit in the temple by Monster’s back hooves. She moaned softly and closed her eyes…
In the hospital Jess and her father sat in the ICU waiting room. Cotey was still unconscious.
“Jessi, are you ok babe?” Mr. Michaels asked. Jess nodded slowly.
“I guess.” The waiting room door flew open and Sam stormed in.
“Where is she?” he demanded.
Two days later Cotey was still unconscious. The doctors had relieved the pressure on her brain, and she was breathing on her own. Sam had barely left her side. Carrie and Jason made several feeble attempts to get him to go home, but it was no use.
“You’re going to be ok Cotey. You’ve got a tough head,” he murmured, stroking her cheek. A nurse walked in just then.
“How’re you today hon?” she asked as she moved around and checked on Cotey.
“I’m really worried about her.”
“You’re a good guy. A lot of guys would find someone else to take their minds off a sick girlfriend. She’s lucky to have you.” Sam smiled and thought: you should try telling her that.
“Any improvements?” he asked.
“A little. She seems to be responding a little to light when it’s shone in her eyes.”
“That’s good isn’t it? When you first did it there was nothing. That has to be good news doesn’t it?” She watched him for a moment.
“How long have you two been together?” she asked. Sam looked away.
“We’re not together. We use to be, for six years, but not anymore.”
“Oh.” Sam watched as she walked out of the room. With a sigh he turned back to Cotey.
“You have to pull through this,” he whispered, brushing hair from her face.
Jason and Carrie walked into the hospital the next morning, surprised to see Sam walking toward them with a smile on his face.
“They think she’s coming around. She’s been moving all night and responding to all the tests,” he said. Carrie and Jason smiled.
“That’s such great news!” Carrie exclaimed. Jason nodded and patted Sam’s shoulder.
“You must be relieved.” A doctor was approaching and Sam turned expectantly.
“Well Mr. Giran, I think you’ll be happy to know that Miss Mallory is awake.” Sam closed his eyes and sighed.
“Is she ok? I mean can I go see her?” The doctor nodded and watched as Sam hurried down the hall. When he got to the room he walked in and looked at her. She was staring out the window.
“Cotey?” he said. She turned and looked at him for a long moment.
“Hi.” He went to the side of her bed and leaned down to place a kiss on her forehead. She smiled softly.
“How do you feel?” he asked, sitting down on the edge of the bed.
“Like I got run over by an eighteen wheeler. How are you?” she asked. He smiled.
“I’m fine now that you are. I haven’t left the hospital since you got here.”
“I would’ve been fine without you here,” she said softly. He frowned, starting to stand. Cotey sighed, realizing she’d hurt his feelings. “I didn’t mean that the way it came out,” she said, grabbing his hand. He looked down at her.
“It’s ok. I know where we stand.” She nodded slowly but didn’t let go of his hand.
“Do you know why I fell?” she asked. He shook his head. Cotey looked up at him with serious eyes and said, “I was thinking about you and what happened in the barn. I couldn’t focus on Monster.” Sam frowned.
“You know better than that,” he chastised. She smiled a little and looked away from him.
“Yeah, I do. You really didn’t have to stay all this time. I’m sure your father didn’t approve.”
“Maybe that’s one of the reasons I stayed so long.” She laughed.
“I knew there had to be a better one than sitting here waiting for me to wake up.”
“All I cared about was you waking up… because I knew you would,” he murmured. She looked away and released his hand. “I’d better get home. I need to get some sleep.”
“Thanks Sam.” He nodded and kissed her forehead again before leaving.
Cotey went home three days later and found that she couldn’t rely on Jess to take care of the barn. The girl had broken her wrist in a riding accident, and her father was adamantly against her ever going near horses again. Jason and Carrie had gone out of town, so her only choice was to call Sam. He agreed to help her, and came over twice a day. Cotey sat on the back deck one night with her sprained ankle propped up on several pillows. Sam was bringing the horses in. When he was done he walked up and pushed himself up onto the railing.
“Everything’s done,” he said. She nodded and looked at him seriously. She nodded and looked at him seriously.
“Not everything,” she said. Sam watched as she got up carefully and crutched toward him.
“What’re you talking about?” he asked. She looked at him and sighed.
“I’m talking about this,” she said, kissing him. Sam wrapped his arms around her and slid off the railing. When she pulled away he frowned.
“What was that for?”
“That was for you knowing the truth and telling me, even though I didn’t realize what the truth was until I was laying in that hospital bed.”
“OK.” He looked down at her for a long time before he smiled and shook his head. “Don’t think I’m crazy… but I love you and want you to marry me,” he said. She smiled.
“OK.”
Almost a year later Jess arrived at Cotey and Sam’s wedding reception with her father.
“As soon as her father starts to mingle I need to go talk to Jess,” Cotey said.
“Why’s that?” Sam asked.
“She hasn’t ridden since her accident, so I haven’t really had a chance to see her.” Sam nodded. As soon as Mr. Michaels left his daughter, Cotey went over.
“It’s so good to see you!” Jess exclaimed as they hugged. Cotey pulled away and smiled.
“What’s going on?” Jess sighed and looked at Cotey with big eyes.
“I need your help Cotey. Dad won’t let me ride and I can’t live without it. I’ve been exercising horses at Crystal’s barn, but I miss your horses. Will you help me?” Cotey sighed.
“I’ll try.” Sam walked up and put his arms around her. She smiled up at him.
“Time for our first dance gorgeous.” She smiled as the song ‘You’re the Inspiration’ started to play.
“You’re a sentimental fool,” she murmured as they began to sway to the music. Sam smiled and she frowned up at him.
“Smile beautiful, or I’ll give you something to smile about,” he warned. She kept frowning, so he kissed her. Cotey smiled and wrapped her arms tighter around his neck as they danced on and into their future together.
