We turn and then head down the hilly path. However, instead of going back the way that we came, she heads to the right. I follow her, and soon our horses are neck and neck, and our bodies are next to each other.
“Clover’s pretty strong.”
“Isn’t she? I’m amazed that she’s managed to handle riding for this long.”
“Indeed. How old is she?”
“Ten, but she’s had some health problems. Kidney stones, bladder issues, and even had a mild heart attack.”
“Geez,” I reply, stopping Orchid a little bit to settle her down. “Worst Orchid’s had is that nasal drainage for a while. I’m grateful.”
“Yeah, it stinks, but I’ve taken care of Clover for the last couple of years. I learned a lot, and she’s still kicking, so I can’t complain.”
“For sure.”
We continue down toward a large pond, where we get off and let the horses drink. Sara stares out into the distance. I join her, looking at what she sees.
“What are the cliffs, there?”
“Not sure. I have yet to explore this whole place. There’s just so much, and I don’t want to overwhelm the horse. It’s also another goal that I have to see it all.”
“Well, maybe we could go out there together sometime,” I offer. She flushes a little bit, and I reach out and touch her head. “I mean in an exploring way. Unless you want to go out on a date and roam around cliffs.”
“Hey, I would like that. It sure beats boring dates, you know?”
“You’ve got a point,” I admit, laughing.
She walks toward Clover at the water. The horse continues to drink as her velvet-gloved hand touches the mare’s head. “Good job, girl. Once we’re back, you can have some food and then go to bed.”
I look up at the sky. It is getting close to sunset. I know that if we stay out too late, the horses might have trouble getting back.
“We should probably head back,” we say in unison and then laugh.
As we ride my leg brushes against Sara’s, and she turns to me, winking. I move back, holding Orchid’s reins a little tighter as I let her pass.
Seeing Sara’s care and tact with Clover is admirable. She cares so much, and I see the dedication as clear as day on her face. I follow her until we head through the large thicket again. The sky’s a series of oranges and reds at this point. We approach the barn, and Sara gets off.
“I’m going to put Clover away. Do you want to house Orchid in here?”
“No, I’ll take her back out to the trailer.”
“Okay, I’ll break down Clover and feed her. Then if you want, we can meet over on the porch when I’m done. May’s probably got some tea and whatever else she’s cooking. Feel free to have some.”
“Sounds good.” I walk with Orchid back to the trailer. I plan to take her down to the farm after this, but I can stick around for another hour or so at least.
Sara’s already on the porch when I get back and she hands me a glass of lemonade.
“Thanks.”
“No problem. It’s nice spending time like this. I’ve never shown anyone else this place.”
She gestures to the sanctuary. I nod, taking in the large expanse of land.
“It’s wonderful here, and I’m honored that you showed it to me, Sara, really honored.”
“I love it. Every day I come I get to bring happiness to another animal. It’s the perfect job.” Her smile disappears as she looks down. “Sadly, I don’t know if I’ll ever get to fulfill my dream completely.”
“What do you mean?” I ask, curious about this.What else could Sara possibly want?