by Janet Cooper
She couldn’t blame the girl. Instead, she gave her a warm smile. “Hannah, today we’re going to walk Pedro.” Turning her attention to Ms. Lee, Taylor considered making a nasty remark about her inappropriate attire, but as an alternative suggested, “Why don’t you sit on the bench outside by the ring and watch?”
Taylor coughed to hide the smile at Ms. Lee’s displeasure which showed on her face, in her eyes and in her stance.
When they reached the hitching post where previously Taylor had tied Pedro, she watched Hannah. The girl’s eyes immediately saw the bandage on the pony’s from left leg.
“What happened?” Hannah glanced from the horse to Taylor and back again.
“He stepped in a hole a couple of weeks ago, one probably dug by a mole or armadillo. The vet came and put on a cast, similar to yours. We’ve bathed his leg and massaged it twice a day since the accident. We’re hoping he’ll recover, but horses have delicate legs and don’t do well if one is injured. Exercise is important for him, but he can’t go fast. I thought since both of you have bad legs, you’d be the perfect groom for him.”
“Really?” Her dark eyes sparkled with excitement, the fear hidden at least for the moment.
“Really.” Taylor nodded in conformation. “A few safety points before we go nearer. Always move slowly around horses. They don’t see well, especially straight ahead. To off-set this, they hear very well, so loud noises can scare horses.”
A flicker of fear showed on Hannah’s face.
Aware of the situation, Taylor said, “But not Pedro. He’s a Quarter horse, a small one slightly less than 15 hands and old at twenty-five. A friend of mine moved away and couldn’t take him. We love having him because he’s fond of children, especially girls. Guess they remind him of his last mistress, Veronica.” Taylor smiled as she watched the anxiety on Hannah face fade. “When I give instructions, all you do, is follow my directions. Okay?”
Hannah nodded.
“Stand at the far end of the hitching post, while I untie the lead line.”
Hannah edged quietly to her spot. Her attention never left the horse as she maneuvered in a half-circle around the hitching post.
Taylor waited until Hannah arrived at the designated spot before untying the lead line and sliding close to the left side of Pedro’s neck. She placed her hand under and around the chin strap. While she worked she spoke softly to the Quarter horse. “Hannah, the reason I’m chatting quietly to Pedro is so he knows where I am at all times. My voice allows him to hone in on my location. Your job is to wait right where you are until we come abreast of you. When we do, move right beside me. Okay? If you wish, you can say a few words to him.”
“What shall I say?”
“Anything. Tell him your name, tell him you’re here to walk with him, tell him he’s beautiful.”
She nodded, her eyes big and bright. “He is kind-of-beautiful with his milk-chocolate hair. The white on his nose and chest is cute.”
“That’s perfect. As we approach, move by my side and keep telling him he’s wonderful.”
She giggled then placed her hand over her mouth.
“Laughter doesn’t scare them unless the sound is very loud.”
At first, Hannah stayed five feet away from Taylor, while she spoke to Pedro. As they ambled around the grassy area that fronted the barn, Taylor talked about the horse, the barn, and riding. Slowly, the girl slid closer.
A short time later, Taylor said, “That’s enough for today. I’m going to put him in his stall. Normally, we would wash him off and re-do his leg wrap before he’s put away, but he’s not warm, so we can put him in his cubicle. Later today, someone will wash him off and replace the dressing.” She glanced at Hannah. “Would you like to see where Pedro sleeps?”
“Yes,” a timid voice replied.
They headed back toward the barn. Taylor stopped in front of a stall that had a name tag on the wall facing the pasture. “Here we are. Each horse has his or her name posted outside. Usually, we close the door after we either take the horse out or put him away. Since this is your first day, I decided to leave the door open, so Pedro could walk in. If you stand outside, you can see what I do next.”
Hannah nodded and edged back to the post which supported the roof covering the walkway.
Taylor eased off the line, placed it on a hook, rubbed Pedro’s ears, reached into a bag and gave him a handful of oats. “He’s passionate about his food. Sometimes, we put horses on diets, especially when the grass is growing and very tender.”
Hannah scooted nearer the door but remained on the walkway.
Taylor remained still observing. Eventually, she walked out, shut the door, and turned toward the girl. “Shall we find your mother?”
As they strolled to the bench that Ms. Lee occupied, Taylor asked, “What did you think?”
“They’re not as scary as I thought.”
“Good.” Taylor tapped the girl on her shoulder. “Want to come again?”
“Yes.” Her face showed pleasure instead of fear.
“Ms. Lee, your daughter did well.”
“When will she ride?” the woman retorted.
Inwardly, Taylor sighed. “All in good time. Hannah will learn about horses and become comfortable by taking small steps. I’m sure she didn’t climb on the balance beam on her first day.”
“No, but if your mother hadn’t hit her, she’d be striding across one today!”
Ignoring the mother, Taylor said, “Hannah, why don’t you come by on Friday afternoon about four?”
“Can we walk Pedro again?”
“Yes. Maybe you’ll hold his line.”
The teenager’s face lit up.
“I’ll see you here.” Taylor waved good-bye.
Ms. Lee’s attitude would try a saint’s patience let alone a normal human’s. Hannah definitely had potential. Taylor nodded her head and grinned inwardly. Not a bad day!
*~*
Hannah arrived on Friday without her mother instead a medium-tall, slightly built man with Asian features accompanied her. His well-worn jeans, faded red tee-shirt, and sneakers suggested a man comfortable with himself. Taylor left her office and met them halfway. “Hello, I’m Taylor Harris.” She stressed out her hand.
The man smiled. “I’m Oscar Lee. Since her last visit, my daughter can talk of nothing but Pedro and what she did here.” Giving Hannah’s shoulders a hug, he went on, “I’m a pharmacist, actually I travel to other drug stores most of the time, but I decided to take the afternoon off and join my girl.” He stopped and stared directly at Taylor. “I hope you don’t mind my coming as opposed to my wife.”
Inwardly, Taylor sighed with relief. Anyone would be better than Ella Mae Lee. “We’re delighted to have you.”
“Can I show Papa, Pedro? I explained all the rules about horses, so my father won’t scare them.” Her excitement showed in every word and on her face.
“Of course, you can, and how wonderful that you explained all the rules.”
“I hope my attire is alright.” He glanced at his outfit before lifting his face and smiling at Taylor.
“Perfect!”
“Can we start?” Hannah asked.
“Absolutely.” A sense of rightness and lightness filled Taylor. She’s on her way.
By the end of the session, all three people smiled. Before leaving Mr. Lee said, “Taylor, I believe my girl has found a new love.”
Fearing he might start pushing for his daughter to ride, Taylor said, “Until her foot heals, I don’t want her to ride. Having two feet, in two stirrups helps a person control the horse. Hannah should learn the correct way, not jury-rigged.” With her grace, she has potential. Taylor did not state this aloud for fear of creating an impossible goal. “Pedro’s gentle and appears to enjoy Hannah’s company, so for time being, let’s allow the two of them to develop this friendship.”
Mr. Lee nodded his head. “I totally agree. Anything worth doing requires learning and learning the proper way.” Peeking at his
daughter, he beamed with pleasure. “Hannah, what do you think?”
“Oh, Papa, I like that idea.” She grabbed her father’s arm.
The look he gave her expressed his love for the girl. Focusing on Taylor, he asked, “May we come next week?”
“Four is usually a good time for us and most days will work.”
He pulled out his phone, scrolled down and frowned. “I must change a meeting before setting a time.” He appeared to apologize for not being able to find an exact time.
“We’ll make it work. The barn doesn’t close until dusk, and I’m here until six or so.”
Hannah and her father bid Taylor good-bye and headed for their car. She added her adieus. What a nice man. Whatever does he see in Ms. Lee?
*~*
The next several weeks passed with no news about Rod. She refused to replay the scene in the pool, keeping her distance from a one-on-one with Jeff. Her rationale being nothing could change what had happened. Neither could anyone benefit from what occurred. Fortunately, the barn and the horses filled Taylor’s days completely. One of the boarders, a Tennessee Walker developed colic. She and Jean worked most of one night and a good portion of the following day to save him.
Pedro’s condition continued to improve as did Hannah confidence around him. The verdict on his leg remained in question. However, Taylor sensed the love the young woman showered on the horse increased his potential to heal. Although Hannah hadn’t ridden, she’d begun washing the Quarter horse, feeding him and mucking out his stall. She’d told Taylor she was waiting for Pedro to mend so she could take her first ride on him. Hannah’s petite size might make riding him possible. Taylor doubled her prayers for the old boy and even called Father Mike to add his. He’d chuckled before agreeing.
Mr. Lee changed his schedule to accommodate their daughter. Taylor enjoyed watching the pair. While her father didn’t help her with the chores, he usually walked with Pedro and Hannah.
While watching Hannah and Pedro interact, Mr. Lee said to Taylor, “Once her foot recovers and she completes her driving requirement, she wouldn’t need me to chauffer her. I’ll miss coming out and seeing her.”
“Mr. Lee, you are always welcome.”
He looked at Taylor. “I like being on the side-lines and watching my daughter as she grows and learns a new skill. Unfortunately, I seldom had an opportunity to see her gymnastic performances. She and her mother shared that dream.”
Guilt filled Taylor. “Mr. Lee …”
He stared at her. “Taylor, I’m not blaming anyone. Gymnastic is a wonderful sport, but there’s a limited period of time for young girls to participate. Riding, she can do forever.” He smiled, warmly.
A sense of relief filled her. “Thank you, Mr. Lee. I really appreciate your kind words.”
“Look at my daughter.” He pointed.
The two focused their attention on Hannah. She and Pedro appeared as one. Although neither Taylor nor Mr. Lee could hear what the teen said, Pedro showed his pleasure by nodding his head and keeping his ears attuned to her.
“I’ll come as often as I can and as often as Hannah will let me.” He chuckled and Taylor joined in.
When he no longer came, Taylor would miss the kind man who brought such joy to his daughter. Taylor also added a short pray that if Mr. Lee couldn’t come that Ella Mae wouldn’t.
Horseback Heroes program progressed without any problems. The pleasure Taylor received from watching children and adults with severe physical problems sitting straight in the saddle, something they couldn’t do in their own wheelchairs, brought her joy. The smiles filling the faces of each participant erased much of the ache inside her.
Jeff often stopped over. He became her rock. He never mentioned the kiss and she never forgot the kiss.
Chapter Twelve
On Saturday, a month after the boating accident, Sheriff Leroy Trotz called and asked for an appointment with Taylor and her dad at eleven. He mentioned that Jeff would be joining them. Taylor thought having him at the meeting odd, but said nothing and agreed. On her way to the barn, she stopped by her dad’s office and told him the plan.
“Why’s Jeff coming? Not that I object.”
“Sheriff didn’t say. He asked if eleven worked for us. I’m off to the barn but will be back in time.”
“Give yourself an extra half-hour here so you don’t reek of the stables.”
“Would I do that?” She laughed.
“If you get involved, yes!” He snickered.
*~*
After finishing her morning chores at the barn and scrubbing up at home, she ran down the back steps and stopped in the kitchen to grab a glass of juice. As she walked in, the smell of something freshly baked teased her nose.
While preparing the coffee, Mary asked, “What can I get for you?”
“I’m getting a glass of juice. Don’t stop what you’re doing.” Taylor glanced at the counter top where three rows of muffins cooled on a metal rack. “Been baking.”
She blushed. “When your dad said Jeff would also be here, I had to whip up his favorite corn muffins.”
“Setting a trap for him?” Taylor teased.
“Taylor! He’s like a son to me. You know that.” Her face turned a thousand shades of pink.
“Yeah, I do. But I love to see you blush and I love to make it happen.” While she had been talking she’d gotten her glass and filled it with orange juice. “Do you have any idea what Sheriff Trotz wants or why Jeff’s included?” she asked Mary turning serious.
“Haven’t a clue. Did you ask Martin?” She pushed the knob to start the coffee.
“Why don’t you buy one of those single cup machines?”
Mary gasped. “Never! Grinding the beans assures the freshest cup. Plus the smell fills the room with such a wonderful aroma. Your father and Jeff, too, love freshly ground coffee.” She shook her head. “Those single cups are fine for a quickie, but in my kitchen nothing replaces the real thing.”
“Sorry, I asked.” She held up her arms and pretended to retreat from the tirade. “As for Dad, he hasn’t a clue why the Sheriff is coming either.” Taylor glanced at her watch. “We should all know in about ten minutes.”
“I’ve set up a table in the library. There are mugs, cream, sugar, Splenda …”
“Linen napkins, flower arrangement, newly shined silverware, sweet tea, glasses. Do I have the whole list?”
“Yes, until I put the coffee and the muffins out,” Mary teased back.
“Hi, Dad,” Taylor called out as he walked into the kitchen. “Mary’s done it again. She’s loaded the little table in the library with goodies. Not sure that old piece of furniture will hold everything,” she teased.
“Taylor, I only made muffins, and small ones at that.”
Martin reached for a muffin on the plate and Mary raised her hand to strike him. “Don’t you dare; there are still a few on the cooling rack. Have one of them.”
“Oooo,” Taylor said, “Naughty, naughty, Dad.” She wagged her finger at him.
The door knocker interrupted their laughter.
“You two go. I’ll bring in the coffee and the muffins.”
“Dad will get the door. I’ll carry in the corn muffins and Mary, you handle the coffee,” Taylor amended.
When Taylor walked into the library, Jeff stood next to the sheriff. When she placed the muffins on the table, he licked his lips. “Muffins? Corn muffins? Did you make them, Taylor?” his voice filled with doubt and wondering.
She laughed. “If I make them, you could use them for fish bait or perhaps not. The fish might not even want them.”
They all chuckled. Three of the group recognized the truth of her statement.
Everyone helped themselves to the food and coffee or tea, found a seat, and prepared to listen.
Sheriff Trotz sipped his coffee, which he’d laced with lots of cream and stirred in several sugars as if reluctant to begin. He placed his cup on a side table and glanced from one to another. “The courts will d
eclare Rod officially dead.”
Taylor, in the process of drinking her sweet tea, managed to swallow the mouthful. She put the glass on the end table beside the love seat. Her father reached over and placed his hand over hers. “Why?” she demanded. “Why so soon? I thought it took years? It’s impossible to cut that time down to a month.” She looked around waiting for someone to agree with her.
“Taylor.” Jeff focused his words and attention on her. “Remember I mentioned in South Carolina there is precedent for this.”
She nodded. “But, I don’t want the State to do this!”
“Can’t change the law, Taylor,” the sheriff said kindly. “Because of his business, the investors and the bank insisted that we move the date ahead.”
“Ahead? Years ahead?”
The sheriff’s eyes filled with emotion although his face retained its stoic look. “Taylor, please listen. What I’m saying is difficult …”
“Difficult? That’s hardly the word.” Again, she looked around expecting someone, Jeff or her father, to refute the Sheriff. “Can’t we delay for at least a year?”
Jeff knelt by her seat. He grasped her hands softly. “Remember, you mentioned Jean and her family?”
Taylor nodded, recalling her questions to Jeff. A small ache began building in her stomach.
“They’re not the only individuals involved. People’s money will be tied up in court unless the State moves forward. Most, if not all of the investors, are persons known to us. Many are friends of ours. Their funds remain locked up. These people have bills to pay: for education, repairs, doctor’s fees, who knows what. If their investment remains stagnant how will they handle the expenses? Rod promised a quick return, in some cases less than six months. They gave him their hard earned money because of the short time period. A year from now is too long for most of them. Please put yourself in their shoes.” His hand covered hers and his expression touched her soul.
She lowered her head. Her emotions warred. Did she have a choice? Even if the State responded to her plea, which it won’t because she had no legal right, could she put her friends in this position? She hated what she had to say, but could find no way to avoid the decision. “When you explain the situation, I realize even if I had the power to stop the State, I can’t. Our friends and their savings must be protected.” She must ask one more question. She glanced at the sheriff. “Will everyone stop looking for him now?” The words caught in her throat.
