45- The Right to Win
Fifteen year old Colleen Giran jogged into the barn ten minutes late. She was supposed to be teaching a riding lesson for her mother, but had forgotten all about it. She checked one of the stalls, and found it empty, so she went to the arena. A young boy was holding Mischief’s reins. Colleen sighed.
“Greg, I’m sorry I’m late,” she said. He looked up and smiled.
“Can I still ride?” he asked. Colleen glanced at her watch and nodded.
“Sure you can.” She gave the six year old a boost into the saddle and clipped a longe line to Mischief’s bridle. “OK, ask him to walk on,” she said.
“Walk on Mischief,” Greg said. Mischief sighed, but walked anyway. Colleen couldn’t help but smile; the pony was getting old and sick of riding lessons. When Greg’s mother arrived she smiled at Colleen.
“How’s he doing?” she asked. Colleen smiled, but kept her eyes on Greg.
“Great. We worked on posting trot today, didn’t we Greg?” she called. The boy nodded, working hard to post. He still wasn’t that good at it, but was trying hard.
“Is it time to stop?” he asked. She nodded and smiled at him.
“It sure is. Come on into the center and do a back up,” she instructed. He came into the center, and with a little bit of help got Mischief to take several steps back. “Was that alright?” he asked as he dismounted.
“That was great! Bring him to his stall and start to groom him. I’ll be right there,” she said. Greg nodded, leading Mischief from the ring. His mother stayed behind.
“So he’s really doing well?” she questioned. Colleen nodded and smiled.
“Yes. He’s getting the hang of things. Do you think he’d want to show in August?”
“I know he would. What kind of things would he need?” Colleen shrugged.
“Probably nothing unless you want to buy him a riding habit. I have my old one from when I was little, so he could use that,” she offered.
“That would be great. Money’s so tight right now,” she said gratefully.
“He can try it on sometime when he’s here. I need to get up to the house now. I’m supposed to be making dinner for my parents.”
“Oh, is it their anniversary?” Colleen shook her head, smiling again.
“Nope, they’re both out on calls. I have to make dinner or none of us will eat. See you later.” The woman waved, watching as she walked from the barn.
Seneca helped her in the kitchen and Abby stayed out of their hair. Colleen glanced at him, handing him a bowl of salad.
“Put this on the table Sen,” she said. He nodded, taking it and putting it in the center of the dining room table. She followed with a basket of rolls and butter.
“Are we leaving the pot roast in the oven to stay warm?” he asked. He was twelve, and was very bright.
“Yup. Mom and Dad should be home soon, so we’ll be able to eat,” she replied. Abby raced into the kitchen, her dirty blonde hair in a ponytail.
“Colleen, do you know how to spell turquoise?” she questioned, carrying her spelling book.
“Isn’t it in your book?” Colleen replied. Abby nodded, looking at the book with a skeptical look on her face.
“Yeah, it doesn’t look right though.” Colleen laughed.
“Let me see it.” After looking for a moment she nodded and said, “That’s right.” Abby nodded and went back to the living room. Suddenly the front door opened and their parents came in.
“How were they for you Colleen?” her father asked. Colleen rolled her eyes.
“I wasn’t babysitting Daddy. Abby and Sen are old enough to take care of themselves,” she muttered.
“Did they behave all day? I know you have better things to do on a Saturday afternoon than look after your younger brother and sisters,” he said. She laughed.
“They were fine Daddy. Get washed up, dinner’s ready,” she told them. They disappeared, and soon after everyone was sitting at the table.
“This is wonderful Colleen,” Beth said. Colleen blushed and gave a shrug.
“It’s not that good. Was there any mail?” she asked. Beth nodded and handed her a letter.
“I think it’s from Chris,” she said.
“Great. I’ll read it after dinner,” she muttered, putting some food in her mouth. Beth winked at her and Colleen blushed again.
“How was the lesson this afternoon?” Beth asked.
“He did a great job. He’s catching on really quickly to posting.”
“I thought he might. Did you talk to his Mom about shows this summer?” Beth asked.
“Yes. She said that she’d talk to Greg about it. I’m all finished eating, so I’ll be upstairs,” she said. She put her plate on the kitchen counter, then raced up to her room. Once there she turned on Alanis Morissett and took out her letter box. It was filled with letters from her friend Chris. He lived in Nevada, and they had met seven years before when he mother rode in the Olympics. She opened his most recent letter and read:
dear COLLEEN:
you’re never going to believe what’s happening! STACEY is going out with the guy that I got in a fight with when you went to school here. isn’t that weird? Anyway, i have a huge surprise for you. i can’t tell you about it now, but you’ll find out really soon. i sent some pictures, but they’re school pictures so they aren’t too good.
how’s everything with you? is school going ok? i hope so. i heard that you were riding in the national this december. i’m really happy for you COLLEEN. good luck.
Love, CHRIS
Ps- don’t bother writing back. i’m going out of town with my family.
Colleen smiled, putting the letter in with all her others. She took the pictures out and looked at them. She grinned when she saw him, then put the pictures by her mirror. She had pictures of her friends and family around the mirror. There was a picture of her on Mischief when she was five, and another of her leading Crown Jewel down the backside at Saratoga Race Track. Her favorite was one of her and Seneca. It had been taken when she was ten and he was seven. He was sitting in front of her in the saddle, both of them smiling broadly.
“Colleen, phone!” Seneca called up the stairs. Colleen sighed but went downstairs.
“Who is it?” she asked. He shrugged, handing her the phone.
“Beats me. Some guy I guess,” he said. She rolled her eyes, putting the phone up to her ear.
“Hello?” she asked.
“Hey Colleen, it’s Brandon,” the voice said. Colleen felt her heart skip a beat. Brandon Tucker was the cutest guy in her grade. He was on the football, basketball, and baseball teams.
“Um… hi,” she stuttered. There was a long pause, and for a moment she thought he’d hung up.
“Anyway… you know the dance Friday?” he asked suddenly.
“Yeah,” she replied. She could hear him take a big breath, then let it out slowly.
“Well I was wondering if you wanted to go with me,” he said finally. Colleen held back her squeal of delight.
“Yeah, I’d like to.” He let out an audible sigh of relief.
“Cool. Me and my Mom will pick you up at seven ok?”
“Yup. I’ll see you later,” she said.
“Bye.” They hung up and Colleen let out the scream she’d been holding in. Her family rushed into the living room.
“What’s the matter?” Beth demanded. Colleen shook her head and smiled.
“Nothing. Brandon Tucker just asked me to the dance on Friday! Isn’t that great?” she demanded.
“That’s wonderful sweetie, isn’t it Dom?” He nodded, smiling at his daughter.
“Yes. He better behave himself though,” he warned. Colleen rolled her eyes.
“Oh Daddy, you’re so overprotective. Brandon isn’t like that at all… he’s a nice guy. I’m going to go down to the barn and tell Raven the good news.” They all watched as she raced from the room, and soon after they heard the front door slam.
Later that night Dominick and Beth were sitting in their room. Dominick glanced at her. She was reading a book.
“Isn’t she a little young to be going out on dates?” Dominick asked her.
“Relax honey. She’s fifteen years old, and that’s a perfectly fine age to go out on a date.”
“I just think she’s so young. You didn’t start dating until you were at least…”
“Twelve. I went out with Aaron, the guy you told me was fooling around behind my back. You were right. There were quite a few boys after that, but in the end you won my heart,” she said with a smile.
“Twelve? You were twelve when you started having boyfriends?” he demanded.
“Yup. Technically, Colleen did too,” she murmured.
“What do you mean?”
“Remember when Chris was here for her birthday when she turned twelve?” He nodded and she continued, “Well the morning he left, Colleen got her first kiss.”
“Are you kidding me? She was twelve. That’s too young to be kissing boys.”
“Honestly Dominick,” she said with a laugh.
“Kissing boys at twelve. Unbelievable,” he muttered.
“And I’m sure you never kissed a girl until you hit puberty,” she said.
“I didn’t kiss a girl ‘til I was fifteen,” he said. Beth laughed.
“Well Beth is fifteen.”
“That’s different. She’s a girl.”
“Dominick! I suppose all the girls you kissed were at least sixteen.”
“Yup. She’s too young to be going out on dates.” Beth kissed his cheek.
“You’re too old fashioned Dominick Giran,” she said, reaching over and turning out the light. He laughed, pulling the covers up and wrapping his arm around her.
On Monday morning Colleen was awake at four a.m. She had to be at the barn for morning workouts, then back to the house in time to shower, change, and be on the bus.
“Colleen let’s go!” her mother called up the stairs. She finished tying her paddock boots.
“Coming Ma!” she replied, pulling on a warm jacket. She jogged down the stairs, grabbed her riding gloves, then went into the brisk November air. She walked down to the barn, braiding her long black hair as she did. “Morning Colleen,” her grandfather said. She smiled at him.
“Morning Grandpa. Who am I working with today?” she asked. Jason shrugged, looking at his schedule.
“Whoever your father decides to put you on,” he answered.
“Daddy’s doing workouts this morning?” she asked. Jason nodded, going into the barn with her.
“Yup.”
“OK, I’ll go talk to him. Where is he?” Jason pointed to the arena and shook his head.
“He’s been working with the new gelding he bought. That animal is a monster,” he said in a disapproving tone.
“Daddy can handle him grandpa. I’ll go see who I’m riding and then get ready.” She jogged off and returned moments later.
“What did he say?” Jason asked.
“He said to ride Phantom. There’s a race in Kentucky in a couple weeks and I get to go. They need two exercise riders so Daddy said I could do it,” she said excitedly.
“That’s great kiddo. Go get Phantom ready so we can get this show on the road.” Colleen laughed, starting to groom Phantom.
That Friday Beth helped Colleen get ready for the dance. It was a semi-formal dance, and Colleen was wearing a black dress. Beth stood behind her, French-braiding her hair.
“Do you think I look ok?” Colleen asked. Beth nodded, smiling at her in the mirror.
“You look beautiful. Brandon is going to be blown away,” she promised. Colleen smiled.
“Will Daddy behave himself?”
“Yes. I’ll make sure o fit. Come on downstairs, it’s almost seven. Your father wants to take some pictures before Brandon gets here.”
“Let’s get this over with.” They walked downstairs and Seneca, Abby, and Dominick all gaped at her.
“Leen you look awesome,” Seneca said. Abby nodded.
“You look pretty Colleen,” Abby said. Dominick stood up and took the camera out of its case.
“Smile honey,” he said. Colleen grinned and he took several pictures. He got pictures with her and the whole family.
“Are you done yet Daddy?” Colleen demanded. Dominick smiled wickedly.
“Until your date gets here. I have to get some of you two together don’t I?” Colleen nodded, turning when the doorbell rang.
“I’ll get it,” she said, walking quickly to the door. She opened it, smiling when she saw Brandon. He was wearing a shirt and tie, and carrying a corsage.
“Hi Colleen. You look great,” he said. She opened the door further so he could come in.
“Come on in. My dad wants to take some pictures before we leave,” she explained, rolling her eyes. Brandon smiled, following her into the living room. Her father clicked many pictures before Colleen cleared her throat and said, “Daddy we really need to get going.” Dominick smiled and gave her a hug.
“Have a good time you two, but be careful,” he said. Brandon took her hand and they walked out of the house.
When Colleen walked into the house that night she was humming. There was a noise from the living room so she went in. Abby and Seneca were curled up on the couch sleeping. Colleen grinned and put a blanket over them.
“Night guys, sleep tight,” she whispered, going upstairs. She went into her room and turned on her bedside lamp, plopping down on her bed. She took out her journal and wrote:
Tonight was the best night of my life. Brandon looked so good, and I know I looked great too. We had an awesome time, and even the food was great. That was surprising, considering the school provided the food. We danced to every song, even the fast ones. The slow ones were a lot better because we got to be all close to each other. After the dance everyone went to a cool café and had cappuccinos. His mother picked us up and brought us back here. Brandon walked me to the door, and he gave me my second real kiss. It was an awesome night.
She put her journal back in its hiding spot under her mattress, and then put on her pajamas. With another content sigh she climbed under the covers and turned out the light.
The next day Colleen came into the kitchen at 10:30. Her parents looked up and smiled.
“Have a good sleep?” her father asked. She smiled.
“Yeah. I was really tired. Where are Abby and Sen?” she asked. Beth thought for a moment.
“Seneca is out on a trail ride with one of Cotey’s students, and Abby’s down at the barn riding with Grandpa.”
“He isn’t mad I missed morning workouts is he?”
“I’m in charge of workouts now honey, and I didn’t expect you this morning,” Dominick said.
“Thanks Daddy. Can I have some breakfast Mom?” Beth nodded, putting some juice on the table.
“Are French toast and bacon ok?”
“That sounds great.”
“Why don’t you go upstairs and get dressed. By the time you get back I’ll be done,” Beth suggested. Colleen went upstairs and grabbed a pair of jeans, long johns, and a heavy wool sweater. She put everything on and then got a pair of socks. When she was dressed she jogged downstairs and went back into the kitchen.
“Is it ready?” she questioned. In answer, Beth put a plate of food at Colleen’s usual place at the table.
“There ya’ go honey.” Colleen grinned and sat down.
“Thanks Ma. I’m starving,” she said, cutting the French toast eagerly.
“So how was the dance last night?” Dominick asked. Colleen smiled and glanced at her Mom.
“We had a lot of fun. All of my friends were there… we had a great time.”
“That’s wonderful honey. So he behaved himself?” Dominick joked. Colleen could feel her face get warm, and she dropped her gaze.
“I told you before that he wasn’t like that Dad. He was perfectly fine,” she said.
“So he didn’t behave then?” Dominick teased.
“He kissed me Dad, that’s all. I mean, I’m fifteen. Half the girls in my school aren’t virgins anymore,” she muttered.
“What? You better be a virgin until you’re married!” he exclaimed. Colleen turned even redder.
“Dad, I can’t lose my virginity by kissing a guy. This really isn’t that big of a deal.”
“I hope you aren’t hanging around with people who give you ideas. I don’t want you to go out and get pregnant,” he said. Colleen slammed her fork down on the table.
“Can we just drop this? It’s none of your business anyway!” she yelled, storming from the room. She grabbed a pair of hiking boots and her jacket, then raced from the house.
“Dom, why did you have to push that so much. She’s not a stupid girl… she wouldn’t do anything like that.”
“I wasn’t pushing anything. I was just telling her that she’s too young to be having sex, and that she shouldn’t hang out with people who will try to convince her to do that.”
“You don’t have the right to make that decision Dominick. She’s a big girl. Trust her to make her own decisions. We’ve brought her up to be a smart, strong, level-headed young lady. Trust her,” she said. He gave her a kiss and she smiled. “I have an appointment in twenty minutes, so I better go.”
“OK. Bye hon,” he said. She left, and Dominick was left to sit alone in the kitchen reconsidering his conversation with Colleen.
Colleen sat in the trailer most of the trip to Kentucky, keeping the horses calm. Her father, grandfather, and cousin were in the front seat. Her Aunt Rachel would be at the track with Uncle Jim. Her cousin Mike had been staying with Cotey. They stopped in several places to let the horses out to walk, but as they neared Kentucky they stopped less often.
“We’re here Colleen,” Dominick said, shaking her shoulder. She had been sleeping on hay bales.
“What time is it?” she muttered.
“A little past midnight. Let’s get the horses settled,” he explained. Colleen got out of the trailer and helped get the horses inside. They had brought three horses: Phantom, Crown Jewel, and a new horse called Tails. They each took one horse into the barn and got them comfortable in their stalls.
“There ya’ go Phantom, sleep tight,” Colleen said to the big horse. He snorted, then nudged her shoulder. She smiled wearily, patting his neck. “Goodnight big guy.” She turned, walking with her family out of the barn.
At the hotel Colleen and Mike were sharing a room. They were the same age, and had been hanging out together on all his visits since they were toddlers.
“So you’re going to be Phantom’s exercise rider?” Mike asked when she came out of the bathroom.
“Yeah. I’ll be at the barn tomorrow at four to feed, groom, and be on the track by five.”
“Mom told me about your accident when your mom was in the Olympics. They didn’t think you’d be able to ride,” he said.
“They were wrong. My elbow is a lot better… I’m even riding in the National this December.”
“That’s cool. Is Seneca going to ride too?”
“Nope. He’s too shy around big crowds. We have trouble getting him into the ring at the county fair, and nobody really goes there.”
“I guess you’re right. What classes are you entering?” Colleen thought for a moment.
“Intermediate dressage, hunter jumper for ponies, hunter jumper for horses, beginner grand prix, bareback pleasure, road hack intermediate, and I think there’s a show jumping sequence I entered,” she said.
“Aren’t you too old for hunter for ponies?”
“Nope. Age doesn’t matter, just the size of your horse. I can still ride Mischief because I’m so light.”
“That’s great. We better get to sleep if you need to be up so early.”
“I was just thinking the same thing. See you in the morning Mike.” She waited until he was in bed before turning out the light. She sighed and snuggled up to sleep.
The next morning Colleen beat everyone to the track. She showed the official her pass, then went to the backside. The sun wasn’t quite up yet, but Colleen jogged toward the barn. Phantom and the other horses whinnied when they saw her.
“Morning guys,” she said. She went to the feed room and got everything she’d need for the horses and fed them all. While they were eating she groomed each of them.
“You’re here early,” a voice said. Colleen looked up, smiling when she saw her grandfather.
“He Grandpa. I wanted to get an early start with them, they have a big day.”
“You’re absolutely right. Your father and cousin are going to be down in a few minutes. They wanted to get something to eat first.”
“How could they eat before coming to the barn?” she demanded. Jason laughed.
“It beats me. Are you almost done here?” Colleen nodded, smiling broadly.
“Who am I riding first?” she asked. Jason grinned and they walked to the tack room together, talking about plans for the day.
When Colleen got home four days later she was met by her mother, brother, sister, and Brandon. She gave everyone a tight hug.
“I’m so glad to be home. Come on Brandon, help me bring Phantom to his stall,” she said, taking his hand. He followed her willingly, giving her hand a squeeze. Once they were in the barn and in Phantom’s stall, they hugged again.
“I missed you Colleen, but I’m really happy for you. Did you have fun in Kentucky?” She nodded.
“Yeah. I got to ride on the track six times, but not as a jockey. They said I was the youngest exercise rider ever.”
“That’s great,” he said. She nodded, closing her eyes when he kissed her. It was the typical second kiss, short and awkward. Colleen pulled away and focused on Phantom.
“Anyway, Phantom won both of his races. We’re really proud of him.”
“That’s great,” he said. She glanced at him over her shoulder and grinned before turning back to Phantom.
The next week at school everyone was talking about a new student. Colleen walked down the hall with her best friend Amy. They had known each other since fourth grade, and had been inseparable ever since.
“He’s gorgeous Colleen, you won’t believe it. I think he’s in art with you next. You’re so lucky… he’s in my English class. At least he’s in your best class with you!” she rambled.
“If you remember correctly, I already have a boyfriend Amy. He’s gorgeous too.”
“He’s no competition for this guy,” Amy assured her. Colleen laughed, waving over her shoulder as she went into the art room. She said hello to the teacher and took her seat.
“Should I work on the track scene?” she asked.
“Yes, it’s coming along very well,” Mrs. Muldovan said with a smile. Colleen went through her portfolio and found the track scene. It was a picture of the racetrack at Kentucky. Colleen was drawing it from a picture she’d taken at sunrise. She began working on the drawing, blanking out everything but the picture. Suddenly the whole room went silent, a very unusual thing. Colleen looked up, dropping her pencil when she saw what the silence was all about. Chris was standing in the doorway, holding a couple books and a sheet of paper. He looked totally out of place, but when he saw Colleen he smiled. She gave him a questioning look and he shook his head. After talking to the teacher he went and sat beside her. She threw her arms around his neck.
“What are you doing here?” she demanded. He laughed.
“I told you in my letter that my parents and I were going on a trip,” he said.
“You didn’t tell me it was a permanent one to Saratoga,” she retorted. He shrugged.
“So I forgot one little detail,” he muttered. Suddenly his eyes fell on her picture and his jaw dropped.
“What?” she asked, her eyes wide. He pointed at the picture.
“Did you do that?” he demanded. She nodded slowly and picked it up.
“Yeah. It’s not done yet. I still have to add all the colors and stuff. Mrs. Muldovan keeps telling me that it’s great.”
“You really drew this?” he asked again.
“Yes! Is there something so unbelievable about that?” she questioned. He shook his head and smiled at her.
“No. I just didn’t know that you could draw like that.” She shrugged.
“Who do you think drew all the stuff in the margins of your letters? Nobody saw them but me.”
“I just didn’t know you could draw like this. It’s really amazing. Did you go there?”
“Yeah. Last week when I wasn’t here. That’s why I didn’t see you all that time.”
“Oh. I was wondering why you weren’t here. Everyone said that you went here.”
“Who’s everyone?”
“Your mother and the rest of your family,” he said with a grin. Colleen stared at him in disbelief.
“My family knew you were coming?” she demanded.
“Yup. We had it planned out for a surprise. So how’ve you been?” he asked.
“Absolutely wonderful,” she replied with a smile. Chris smiled too, watching as she began to draw again.
That weekend Colleen invited Chris over. He arrived at five a.m. Colleen was just getting a leg into the saddle, and her father was giving her instructions when Chris rode into the stable yard. Colleen turned and smiled at him.
“I’ll be done in a little while. Why don’t you take your horse into the barn? There’s an empty stall toward the far end,” she said. Chris nodded.
“I’ll be back,” he said. She nodded, but was already going out onto the oval. With a smile he led his horse Jasmine to the barn. When he was done he went out and watched workouts. “She’s really good,” he said. Dominick nodded slowly.
“Yes she is,” he agreed. When she came off the track she grinned down at them.
“You feel like a trail ride?” she asked. Chris nodded and watched as she dismounted.
“Sure,” he said. They walked toward the barn together, and he went to get Jasmine ready while she took care of Phantom and saddled Raven. Half an hour later they were riding out of the stable yard. They rode through the woods, wearing heavy jackets. The first snow had come, and there was a light dusting.
“Snow came early this year. Usually we don’t get hit until December,” Colleen said, posting to Raven’s fluent trot.
“It’s so cold up here. How do you get used to it?” he questioned. Colleen grinned.
“You had snow in Nevada,” she said with a laugh. He shrugged, watching her carefully.
“Yeah, but not this much. I mean, we got a little and then it melted. It’s going to hang around here,” he said. She nodded, turning at the sound of hoof beats approaching. Brandon was riding one of the schooling mounts, looking at them both with hard eyes.
“Hey Colleen,” he said. She smiled, reaching over and squeezing his hand reassuringly.
“Hey Brandon. This is my friend Chris; he just moved here from Nevada. Chris, this is my boyfriend Brandon,” she explained. She could see the relief flood Brandon’s handsome features.
“Nice to meet you Chris. Are you going out for any sports?” he asked.
“Basketball. I love it more than almost anything,” Chris replied, glancing at Colleen.
“Me too. Of course, you probably love riding a lot, or Colleen wouldn’t have drifted to you,” Brandon said. Colleen shot him a surprised look.
“Then why’s she going out with you?” Chris shot back. Colleen drew in a breath.
“Would you two knock it off?” I’m going to head home, so let me know when you’ve settled your differences,” she said, turning Raven and cantering back toward the farm. Chris sighed, glancing at Brandon.
“I better go see if she’s going to hate me for life,” he muttered. Brandon caught Chris’s reins.
“She’s my girlfriend, I’ll go,” he argued. Chris sighed and gave Jasmine’s sides a strong squeeze. The mare went instantly into a canter, jarring Brandon from his saddle. He let go of Chris’s reins and landed on his butt with a thud. Chris smiled, patting Jasmine on the neck.
“Good girl,” he muttered.
Colleen was pacing in the hay loft, ringing her hands together. Chris walked in quietly, smiling for a brief moment.
“Hey, has the storm passed?” he asked. She whirled, her eyes angry as she stalked toward him.
“Why were you being such a jerk? He didn’t do anything!” she explained.
“Oh yes he did. He participated in being a jerk just as much as I did. Maybe you didn’t see it because you’re bias,” he said seriously.
“I’m bias? I thought I was your best friend, but I guess not. I can’t believe you said that to Brandon.”
“Well believe it. He deserved it. I wasn’t just going to sit there and let him put us both into some category just because we love riding.”
“He wasn’t. He was just saying that I usually hang out with people who ride.”
“And I was just saying that it couldn’t be true if you were dating him! It’s obvious he doesn’t ride, not like we do,” Chris shot back. She stood quietly for a moment, staring at him.
“Why don’t you head home Chris? I’m not in the mood to talk about this right now.”
“Fine, don’t talk about it. It must not be worth our friendship.”
“What’s that supposed to mean?” she demanded, catching his arm as he turned to leave.
“Maybe things aren’t going to be the same between us. Maybe we can’t be friends.”
“Why not?” He looked at her, putting his hands on her shoulders.
“Because you’re all grown up.” He turned and stalked from the loft, running into Brandon. They glared at each other for a moment, then went their separate ways.
In December Colleen and the rest of her family went to New York City for the National Horse Show. Her mother and father were showing, and so was Chris. Colleen led Raven to his stall after a light workout, and began to untack him.
“That was great big guy,” she murmured, grooming him carefully. The animal bobbed his head and nudged her. Colleen grinned, rubbing behind his ears. “Itchy?” she questioned. He leaned into the itch, making her laugh.
“Having fun Leen?” Seneca asked, leaning on the stall door. She turned, smiling at him.
“Yup. You should show next year… you’d definitely make the National,” she said. Seneca shook his head.
“No way Leen. I couldn’t ride in front of all those people. I’d be too embarrassed.” Colleen laughed again, handing him her jumping saddle and bridle.
“What’s there to be embarrassed about? Half the people in the audience are just wishing they could ride like you. They just admire you for how you ride,” she said, letting herself out of the stall. Seneca handed her the saddle and bridle.
“These are yours, don’t expect me to take care of them,” he said. She rolled her eyes.
“I wasn’t. I needed you to hold them so I could finish up. I’m going to go clean these, so tell Mom and Dad I won’t be back for dinner.”
“They won’t be happy, you missed dinner last night too. They said that Chris wasn’t here to hang out with us.”
“Chris is here to ride. His parents couldn’t come so Mom and Daddy offered to bring him with us. I wish he hadn’t come at all,” she muttered.
“Come off it Colleen, you like him and you know it,” Seneca said. Colleen whirled, glaring at him.
“Shut up Seneca Michael!” she exclaimed. He shook his head, blonde ringlets bobbing.
“No. You like him, or at least you used to. I read in your diary that he kissed you.” Colleen gasped.
“What were you doing reading my diary?” she demanded. Seneca stared back at her evenly and gave an indifferent shrug.
“It was a lot more interesting than my required reading list,” he said, a grin spreading across his face. Colleen shoved him hard.
“That was none of your business!” she yelled, attracting several looks from people close by.
“Relax, I’m not going to tell anyone,” he said, a twinkle coming into his eyes.
“What do you mean by that?” she demanded. He grinned.
“I heard that Brandon hates Chris. I really don’t like Brandon at all, so I figure if he knew how close you and Chris are…” he trailed off.
“Seneca, I was twelve years old when that happened! Don’t you dare open your mouth,” she threatened.
“Or what Colleen?” he shot back. She glared at him, taking a menacing step toward him.
“Or I’ll tell everyone who left that gate open and let the six yearlings loose,” she said. Seneca paled slightly.
“You wouldn’t dare,” he said. She smiled a little and patted his shoulder.
“Oh no? Try me.” He sighed, shaking his head. Colleen picked up her tack and started toward the tack room.
“If you like him, why don’t you just break up with Brandon?” Seneca called.
“I don’t like Chris, he’s just a friend,” she said. Seneca sighed again, turning and walking away.
When competition began the next week, Colleen was a bundle of nerves. Her parents tried their best to calm her, but she was still nervous on the first day of competition.
“What if I mess up really bad?” she murmured. Dominick put his arm around her slim shoulders.
“Honey you’re going to be great. This is a simple flat class. Raven is experienced in big shows, so you won’t have anything to worry about. Relax honey.”
“That’s easier said than done,” she muttered. Dominick laughed.
“Why don’t you go talk to Chris? Maybe he’ll calm you down a little.”
“I’d rather shoot myself in the foot.”
“Are you and Chris fighting?” he asked. Colleen gave him a withering look.
“I hope that’s a rhetorical question,” she said. Dominick smiled a little.
“I guess so. Good lucky honey, you’re going to do fine,” he assured her. She swung into the saddle and followed the rest of the riders into the large ring. Chris and Jasmine fell in step beside her.
“Good luck Colleen,” he said sincerely. She glanced at him and smiled.
“Thanks, you too.” She turned her gaze forward again, listening as the judge began calling instructions.
“Canter, all canter,” the woman said. Colleen began, keeping good contact with her saddle and leverage on Raven’s head. “”Walk please, all walk,” came the next order. Raven slowed instantly, listening to Colleen’s flawless aids. The class continued, and soon riders were eliminated. Chris was one of those riders, and she shot him a sympathetic look. He shrugged and winked at her as he rode from the ring. “Number one seventeen, two twenty, eighty-seven, one sixty-four, thirty-nine, and five eighty, please come to the center,” the judge said. Colleen smiled, knowing that she was number one seventeen. She trotted into the center, halting in the middle. “Sixth goes to 220, fifth to 87, fourth 64, third to 580, second to 117, and first to 39. Congratulations riders.” Colleen took the ribbon smiling graciously and then trotting from the ring.
“Second is ok… that was a huge class,” she said, dismounting and running her stirrups up the leathers. Her parents gave her tight hugs, and Chris stood back and watched.
“Why don’t you guys go take care of the horses. Then we can go look around,” Dominick suggested. Colleen smiled at her father, leading Raven toward his stall. Chris followed her.
“Congratulations,” he said sincerely. She looked at him for a moment, putting her saddle over the stall door.
“Thanks. You did a good job too… don’t let it get to you. Will you put this on the wire over there?” she asked, pointing to a section on the stall that was like fencing. Chris took her ribbon from her and hooked it up.
“This whole thing will be full by the end of the day,” he said.
“We’re going to be here for three days,” she muttered. He smiled.
“You’ll need another stall,” he said, leading Jasmine away. Colleen grinned, glad they were talking again.
Colleen put her shopping bags down in the corner of the stall and began to groom Raven. They had looked around and Colleen had purchased several new items: a pair of chaps, a new helmet cover, and a new set of leg wraps for Raven.
“Yeah, I’m running late big guy,” she murmured, picking up his front hoof and cleaning it.
“Hey, are you almost ready?” a voice asked. She glanced up, smiling when she saw Chris.
“Nope. Is our class starting?” she asked, her voice worried. He shook his head slowly, handing her a saddle. She smiled.
“Nope. You’re just missing walking the course.” She sighed.
“Can you go walk it for me and tell me what’s going on with it?” she requested.
“Sure, but if you mess up don’t blame me,” he kidded. Colleen smiled, watching as he walked away. By the time he came back she was ready and leading Raven from his stall.
“How was it?” she asked. Chris took a deep breath and began to recite a long list of details.
“It doesn’t seem too hard, but it’s not a piece of cake. You can place if you’re careful on the jumps I told you about,” he said.
“Do you know what number I’m jumping?” she asked.
“Seventh. It’s a 13 horse class, so that’s not too bad.”
“Yup. OK, tell me more about this course.” They began walking toward the ring, still talking.
The next morning Colleen awoke with a start. It was only four, but she had been awake most of the night with strange dreams. She sighed and got out of bed, grabbing her breeches. With a stumble she managed to pull them on, along with her socks, boots, and a sweatshirt. She left a note on her bedside table, then walked out. When the air hit her she gasped; it was freezing out. She stuffed her hands into her pockets and walked quickly to Madison Square Garden. Only a few people were at the arena, and Colleen was glad. She showed her pass card and the door manager allowed her to go in. People waved at her, recognizing her from the day before. She went to Raven’s stall, pausing to look at the wire mesh on the side of her stall. There were six ribbons on it, four of them blue. She had placed in every class, and was being looked at by a lot of upscale trainers.
“Morning Raven,” she said, patting his neck. She let herself into the stall, taking her grooming gear with her.
“What are you doing here so early miss?” a voice asked. Colleen looked up, frowning when she saw a young guy standing at the stall door. He was tall, had dark hair, blue eyes, and a broad chest. She swallowed hard, forcing a smile.
“I couldn’t sleep, so I came down to spend some time with my horse before I warm up.”
“Well don’t get into trouble. That’d be unfortunate.”
“Why?” she asked. He flashed a grin.
“You need more ribbons so you can wallpaper the whole stall,” he answered. Colleen laughed.
“That’s what my friend keeps telling me. What’s your name?”
“Jake Parker,” he said. She nodded, running the name through her head.
“I’m Colleen Giran,” she said. He nodded, another smile flashing across his face.
“I know who you are… everyone does. You’re the girl who won five ribbons in one day.” Colleen blushed.
“Thanks. So do you ride?” Jake laughed.
“Yeah. My parents own Hickory Acres,” he explained. Colleen couldn’t stop her jaw from dropping. “I see you’ve heard of it.”
“Hasn’t everyone? The best horses and riders come out of Hickory Acres. I’ve seen some of your riders go on to the Olympics.”
“Yup. I need to get going Colleen, but I’ll see you around,” he said. She nodded, watching as he left. When he was out of earshot she let out a whoop.
“Oh God, he was so gorgeous!” she exclaimed, hugging Raven’s neck tightly. The horse snorted and then went back to eating his breakfast.
Dominick shook his head, starting at Jake Parker’s parents. Beth stood beside him, also skeptical.
“I won’t send her to some farm to work when she can work at home,” Dominick said stubbornly.
“It won’t be until this summer, and it isn’t to work. It’s to ride Mr. Giran. She’s got so much talent… she needs to be on the circuit,” Mr. Parker said sincerely. Dominick glanced down to the ring, hoping to see Colleen ride in.
“She can be talented at home,” he replied, smiling as his daughter rode in. The audience applauded wildly, remembering her from the day before.
“Look how at home she is in front of a crowd. She could take the show world by storm,” Mrs. Parker put in.
“Dominick, I think we should ask her if she’s interested in this,” Beth said finally. Dominick looked at her incredulously.
“Are you serious?” he demanded. Beth nodded slowly, glancing at the Parkers.
“Yes. Hickory Acres is a great place to ride, and she’ll get great mounts beside Raven. She’ll be known, she’ll be wanted. If I had had this chance growing up, I would’ve taken it,” she said.
“Then we’ll ask her,” Dominick said. They all turned their attention to the ring, where Colleen was completing the last of her dressage test. She gave a bow to the judge, then trotted from the ring. The audience cheered again, and Colleen smiled.
That evening Beth and Dominick asked Colleen about Hickory Acres.
“Of course I want to go!” she exclaimed. Dominick sighed and shook his head.
“You’re going to miss racing season,” he said. She drew in a deep breath.
“I also don’t want to be a jockey Daddy. I just like helping around the farm,” she said.
“You don’t want to be a jockey? That’s all you’ve ever wanted!” he exclaimed. She looked at him, her eyes hard and serious.
“No, that’s all you ever wanted. I want to show… I want to jump. I don’t want to risk my life for two minutes around a track!” she said. Dominick frowned.
“If you want to go, go. I won’t stop you.” She nodded slowly, starting to walk away.
“I’ll go tell the Parkers myself. No need for you to tell them how thrilled you are that I might actually succeed.” Dominick watched as she walked away, slamming his fist down on the nightstand.
That night Beth and Dominick were in their room discussing Colleen’s choice. Beth was sitting on the bed and Dominick was standing by the window.
“I think she’s too young to be thrown into the lime light,” he said.
“How fast were we thrown into it Dominick? At birth? It didn’t hurt us any,” she said.
“Colleen is different. I’ve kept the media away from the kids. I don’t want her to deal with that now.”
“Maybe she wants to deal with it now Dominick,” she said gently.
“She doesn’t know what she’s getting herself into,” he said stubbornly. Beth stood, going behind him and wrapping her arms around his waist.
“You have to let her go sometime Dom. She’s fifteen years old… she’s going to be sixteen soon. She isn’t going to be Daddy’s little girl forever.” Dominick nodded, turning and wrapping his arms around her.
“I know. I Just don’t want to lose her to the fame of the circuit. I don’t want her to get caught up with things like that.”
“She won’t. We’ve brought her up better than that. She’s a good kid with a good head on her shoulders. She won’t let it go to her head.”
“I guess you’re right.”
“Besides, after all that has happened to her, she has the right to win.”
