by Kahlen Aymes
The colt still had about five hundred pounds to gain before he was fully grown but that wouldn’t be until sometime in his second year. He’d grown into a beautiful horse and would be great for breeding, but for ease of training I wanted to geld him. Ben was completely against it. He said he wasn’t going to cut the balls off of his boy. Thinking about Ben’s expression of shock and utter disgust, I couldn’t help but laugh out loud. You’d think I was suggesting cutting his balls off.
“Isn’t there some sort of birth control pill for horses?” Ben had asked.
“Sure, but it makes them cranky. Dark won’t know the difference,” I’d argued.
“Look at him? He’s so gorgeous, don’t you want one of his babies?”
I’d rolled my eyes. “Very, but we can breed Siri with Renegade again and then we’ll have another foal like Dark.” From my point of view the solution was simple.
Dark was beautiful, no question, but an intact stallion was asking for trouble. Right now, the only intact male we had other than Dark was his sire, Renegade, and Uncle Leonard only agreed to board him in exchange for breeding Siri. Other than that, we had a rule: only geldings.
After a little more ranch experience, Ben would change his mind on such things. In the wild only one stallion would be found with a herd, and the younger males leave or are forced out when they come of age. The last thing we needed was a fight between stallions.
I wanted to start saddle training Dark around twenty months, but left intact he’d be harder to train, and we had to keep him separated from the mares when they were in heat. So far, Ben had won the argument because we could separate the males from the females into separate pastures, and currently, Dark was more like a pet dog, but once he grew up, he’d have to be separated from the females and from his sire, and I didn’t want that lonely life for Siri’s baby boy.
In fact, we were already planning on breeding Siri one more time so that Remi and Dylan could witness the birthing, but after that, I was considering asking Renegade’s owner to find him other accommodations or have him neutered as well. It would be safer and better for all of the horses, including Renegade, because he wouldn’t have to be separated so much. I felt bad for him and I totally understood Uncle Leonard’s rules. After the business took off, keeping track of which mares needed to be separated from him would get to be too much work due to fluctuating cycles of the females unless we just kept him alone constantly and the thought made me sad.
The new entrance on the north side of the property was almost two miles from the house. Siri could have made it in 15 minutes, but I was using one of the trails and staying off of the road. We switched off between a slow walk and a slow trot. I could sense she wanted to break into a run through some of the fields, but the unevenness of many of the surfaces and possible holes from rabbits or ground hogs meant I couldn’t allow her free reign; she might fall into one and break a leg. I kept her to the trails, just to be safe.
Ben’s truck finally came into view along with one other big red crew cab truck. Ben, Davis, Mark, and Jake were on scene helping to build a duplicate of the archway they’d already finished on the south side. From the looks of it they were just about finished. They’d made a makeshift scaffolding from the roofs of the two truck cabs, a couple of boards and blankets beneath them to keep from scratching the paint on Davis’s new truck.
Jake and Mark were in the bed of Ben’s truck handing up the wooden arch complete with the ranch name carved into it. Ben had darkened the lettering with the skillful use of a blowtorch and then sealed it with clear resin to weather-proof it. The effect was rustic and charming. We had similar plaques made for each one of the cabins which had been named for a different breed of horse, the brilliant concoction of Remi and Dylan.
“There she is!” Ben called from his perch atop the truck bridge. “Be down in a minute, babe.”
I watched as first Ben, then Davis, took nails from the carpenter aprons they wore and then hammered them in at several places: one side at a time. Jake and Mark stood back and instructed them on adjustments up or down so that both sides were level.
The sign was heavy, and Ben’s muscles were bulging with the effort and his skin slick with the sheen of perspiration. Davis was also shirtless and built, but Ben was the focus of my admiration.
“I brought lemonade and cookies!” I called.
Mark and Jake jumped down and approached Siri’s flank. I lifted the saddle bags from their position in front of the saddle and handed it over.
Jake took it, lifting one of the flaps pulling and out the Zip-lock bag filled with cookies then handed the leather saddle bags over to Mark. It wasn’t long before he had removed the large thermos and a stack of red plastic cups. He lined up four cups on the back of Ben’s open tail gate and filled them all, downing his before refilling it.
“What do you think?” Ben asked. He had on a billed hat from the farmer’s co-op, his hair longish on the sides and back sticking out beneath it. I couldn’t help thinking that my Uncle Leonard would approve. My lips lifted in the start of smile.
He hopped down and walked forward to lay a hand on my thigh. To avoid saddle burn, I never rode horses in shorts, but Ben gave my flesh a squeeze through the denim of my jeans. His face and bare torso were tanned from hours in the sun building fences over the past couple of weeks. He smiled up at me and I covered his hand with my own. “I think it looks incredible.”
“Just in time for the grand opening, right?” Mark asked, reaching for a cookie from the bag that Jake still kept as if it were his, and his alone. “Give me one of those.”
Jake finally offered the bag.
“Yes. Tomorrow night. I can hardly believe it’s here.”
“Are you nervous?” Davis asked, finally jumping down to join the other men. Within seconds both he and Ben were downing a full glass of lemonade.
“Not really. I was worried people wouldn’t attend, but we’ve had a lot of RSVPs and it’s open to the public. We may even run out of food, the way it’s going.”
Teagan and I had arranged for a public grand opening event that would include a live country and western band, a pony/horse ride and bouncy houses for little kids, and a bonfire. Though, due to concerns from my personal fireman, we wouldn’t be allowing the roasting of hotdogs or marshmallows due to the size of the crowd and the age of the youngsters. Instead, we’d hired Arlene’s Diner to cater in a selection of salads, baked beans and she was setting up a large gas grill and serving smoked pulled pork, grilled chicken and burgers. There would be an assortment of cookies and a big tub of watermelon sections on ice for dessert. We had an assortment of soft drinks, tea, coffee and the option of wine or beer for the adults.
“Did the bouncy houses come?” Ben asked, taking three cookies from the bag.
“Yes, they are setting them up right now.”
“This is going to be a blast. I can’t wait until the family arrives,” he said proudly. “Remi and Dylan asked if we could sleep out in one of them tonight.” The dimples in his face appeared as he flashed me a smile. “If they are too full of air it will be like sleeping on a basketball.”
“It will only be a couple of hours until they arrive,” I answered. “I’m excited to see them.” We’d seen them a few times throughout the year; they’d come out here twice and we had gone to Atlanta when Missy gave birth to Joshy, and it was the first time we were able to meet little Bliss.
“I’m excited to see them, too. Jacey can stay out with us this time, I think. He’s three now.” His answer confirmed what I already knew; he’d committed us to a camp out in the bouncy house.
“Yes,” I agreed.
“Dude,” Davis shook his head. “If it were me, I’d be figuring out how I could stay out there with my lady. Alone.”
Ben laughed. “Well, that’s because you haven’t met those kids. They are amazing!” He reached up and patted my behind. Siri snorted. “Okay, girl. You get some love, too.” He rubbed the side of her neck with his other hand, never lett
ing go of me. “I think that’s a good idea, though.”
A slow smile slid across my lips. Ben’s eyes were hidden by his Ray-Bans, but I knew the blue eyes held a mischievous glint, as he openly flirted with me.
“I gotta say,” Davis began, “Working out here is hard, but not as hard as fighting fires. Maybe Ben had the right idea.” He took off his cowboy hat and ran a hand through his dark hair before replacing it on his head. I could see it was damp with sweat.
I nodded, my hand reaching down to wrap around Ben’s forearm. His hand was still resting on the back of my saddle by my lower back. Touching each other whenever we were close had become natural and second nature; like breathing.
“I’m thankful,” I admitted. Ben had quit the fire department and was working with me to build the ranch full-time but was still a member of the volunteer squad and did go out when needed. It was still a worry, but I’d come to accept that fighting fires, and being a hero, was just part of who Ben was, and I loved all of him. My heart was full, and I was proud of the man he was. I felt cherished every day.
“Just say the word, buddy,” Ben said, giving my butt a pat, then walking over to the bed of his truck to remove four shovels and a post hole digger. “If this first season is anything to go by, we’re going to be busy as hell, and if we have to expand, who knows? God willing, we’ll need a shit load of help. That goes for you two, too.” He nodded at Jake and Mark. “Right, boss lady?”
Ben was teasing me, but I had to admit there was a certain satisfaction to seeing this all come together. “I couldn’t have done it without you,” I said.
“Oh, Ben, I love you, Ben,” Davis teased in a sing-songy voice. The men burst out laughing. “Ben, you’re so strong!”
I couldn’t help but smile and roll my eyes. “Okay, Davis, enough of you. I meant any of you! If you’re not careful, I’ll tell Gina you’re into Ben and not her.” They started dating a few months ago after a few more of our group nights at the Moose.
“She knows better,” he chuckled. “Believe me!”
The men still had several evergreens to plant beside the huge boulders we’d had delivered to make the entrances more elaborate. Siri shifted beneath me, anxious to move around. “It’s time for me to get back. I need to make sure the cabins are in order for our guests.” We’d invited some of our friends to stay at the cabins for the weekend after the grand opening celebration.
Teagan and Chase would share one with Jace and Bliss, Missy and Jensen with Joshy, Gina with Davis, and Mark with his girlfriend. Jake was still single, so he’d have his own, but Chase had also invited his parents and siblings who would round out the trial group. It was designed as a test run for the staff.
Remi and Dylan had requested a campout in the bouncy houses tonight, but Saturday night would be spent in the cabins with their parents. Ben and I would have our own. I was looking forward to both of the coming evenings.
“Don’t stress. It’s just our family and friends. It doesn’t have to be perfect, tonight.”
“But I’d like it to be,” I answered.
“I know, but don’t stress. I’ll see you later, sweetheart,” Ben walked over to say goodbye, and I leaned down to kiss him. He removed his hat and once again his arm slid around my hips, and he offered a pat. “Be careful.”
“Thanks for the refreshments,” Jake called, stuffing one last cookie into his mouth.
“You’re welcome.” As I turned to leave, the men were already unloading the evergreens from the back of Davis’s truck. They were less than four feet now, but they’d still look good now and even more so in the future when they were taller. “You guys are doing a great job.”
I turned Siri around and decided to let her run for a short distance to burn some of her energy. “Tkk Tkk. Let’s go Siri.” I barely touched her side with my heel, and she knew I was going to let her gallop.
The terrain was flat on this side of the entrance for about a quarter mile, and she took off like a rocket when I gave her the lead. Her gallop was smooth, and I was used to being in sync with her strides. I felt happy and free with the wind blowing my hair back. I knew by the time I arrived back at the house; our family would be arriving. I couldn’t wait to see them.
***
“Auntie Marin!” Remi yelled, bounding toward me with Dylan, as I Siri and I trotted into the yard.
She and Dylan were both a couple inches taller, their features a slightly more mature.
“Whoa, Siri.” I stopped the horse near the two SUV’s that were parked in front of the house. I dismounted from Siri as the two kids ran toward me. I still held Siri’s reins, but did my best to hug them both tight. I kissed first one, then the other on the top of their heads. “You two are so big! Will you stop growing, please? Has it only been a month?”
I smiled down into their shining faces. They were gorgeous and a sight for sore eyes.
“Come on, Aunt Marin, you know we can’t,” Dylan said.
I cupped his cheek, then Remi’s. “I know. I’m so happy to see you! Are you hungry? I made chocolate chip cookies, or I can make you a sandwich or maybe mac and cheese?” The caterers were already on site and had a large smoker going for the pulled pork. The air smelled delicious, but it wouldn’t be ready for four or five more hours.
“Okay,” Dylan agreed to it all. I couldn’t help but laugh. That would have been Ben’s answer, too.
The adults were watching from a short distance away, still near the cars. Missy and Teagan were both holding their babies, and Chase was just getting Jace out of the car seat in the back. He was three now, and he’d grown the most. He ran toward us as fast as his little legs could carry him once Chase set him on his feet. I handed Siri’s reigns to Dylan and bent to scoop him up in my arms. “My! Who is this big handsome boy?”
“It’s me, Auntie Marin!” He hugged my neck with his little arms. “Can I ride your horsey? Can I?” His green eyes were wide with wonder as he watched Siri snort and bob her head.
“Jace, give Aunt Marin a chance to say hello,” Chase said stepping forward to reclaim his son. “Sorry.”
“Oh, no, it’s fine. Siri’s all saddled up and I’ll be happy to give them all a ride. But I’d like to say hello to the babies.”
Missy and Teagan approached. “You look wonderful, Marin,” Missy said. She held her month-old baby boy dressed in a white and blue onesie. There was a blanket beneath him, but he was not wrapped in it due to the warm weather. “Here’s Joshy,” she said, beaming. I looked down at the sleeping baby, palming the top of his head. He had silky fine hair, but it was blond and short.
“He’s precious. Two boys will have your hands full.”
Jensen was standing beside his wife and I hugged him. He was the epitome of a proud father. “In a good way.” He smirked at me. “I’m loving every minute of it.”
“It’s so good to see you guys,” I said sincerely, even though it had only been a month since we’d been in Atlanta.
Turning to Teagan, who was holding the little replica of Remi. “Hello, Bliss,” I said. Her green eyes stared at me and her dark hair was sticking up all over her head, save a little gathered in a barrette with a pink ribbon bow. I reached out and held her plump little hand. It had only been a month since we’d seen them, but the two babies had changed so much. “You’re just beautiful, aren’t you?”
“Mommy says she looks like me!” Remi piped up. “I’m gonna teach her all about being a princess when she grows up a little!”
I smiled. “Well, you’re certainly the expert on princesses,” I agreed. “And also, beautiful!”
“Yep!” She nodded her head, and her long dark ponytail bounced up and down. “Where’s Gemmy?”
“In the house, but what’d ya say we take our rides then get some lunch? We’ve got lots to do to get ready for tonight! You can play with her in the new barn, after. Wait until you see the fairy lights, Remi. They are gorgeous!”
Remi clasped her hands together at the same time as a huge grin broke out on
her beautiful face. “Yay! My idea!”
Missy and Teagan took the babies into the house while I climbed back up into the saddle and then Chase handed Jace up into my arms. I settled the little boy in front of me, using my arms as a cage around his body as I held onto the reigns and the saddle horn.
“You and Dylan will have a turn when Jace is done, okay?” I smiled at Remi.
“Sure, Auntie Marin!” She agreed happily as Chase lifted his daughter up and over his head until she was sitting on top of his shoulders. Dylan climbed on to the corral fence and Jensen opened the gate for me, so I’d be able to lead Siri through.
“Gid yap! Gid yap!” Jace called out happily, and I laughed out loud with Chase and Jensen.
“You heard him, Siri. Giddy-up!” I nudged her and she started into a slow walk. Jensen closed the gate behind us and leaned on it near his son.
Jace’s giggles filled the open air as I urged Siri into a slow trot. His squeals of delight filled my heart with joy as I held him securely to me. I hoped one day that my own child would be in the very place he was sitting; on Siri’s saddle in front of me as I took him or her on their first horseback ride. Chase and Teagan, and Missy and Jensen, had exactly what I wanted. A family of my own that fit right in with the bigger picture of theirs.
I wished Ben had been around to share this moment, but we both had work to do to make sure the celebration tonight was absolutely perfect.
BEN
The inside of the barn was like a magical place.
Marin had not delegated the decorating or the planning of the party, other than a little help from Remi and Teagan, and the result was outstanding. I stood in the center of the huge event space we’d created, looking around and just taking it all in.
There were votives scattered around; on the tables, the bar, and on several little recessed shelves that had been built into the walls near the stairs on the way up to the lofts. I had to admit that the twinkling lights that I’d complained about stringing through the log beams that crossed the building every four feet were the best part. The live band was playing soft instrumentals during dinner, but later the dance party would begin.
