Page 18 of No Bones About It

Garrett took his time with the first animal and backed it down the ramp. He ensured the horse backed up further than necessary, a good practice for the animals. He led the horse into the empty paddock next to Kitty’s. There was enough space between the two that the horses couldn’t harm each other if either of them got scared.

While he walked the horse around the paddock, he motioned for Kimi to take charge of the other one. She climbed into the trailer and spoke to the gelding while patting its flank and neck. “Hi there, handsome boy. We’re going to join your friend. This is a good place, and you’re going to be happy here.”

The horse hesitated several times during the backing-up process. It was a scary thing for horses and she let him go at his own pace. When they reached the ground, she held him firmly and had him back up straight until they were well out of range of the ramp. She’d fixed more than one injured leg from ramp accidents when the humans rushed the process.

Dale opened the gate for her with a grin, and she took the horse into the paddock. This horse’s behavior matched the other gelding. Subdued. His eyes shifted continually around the area and didn’t settle in any one spot for long, checking for threats.

Looked like this guy might prefer to be inside, in a stall where he could see all of his surroundings and know no one was approaching from behind him.

Garrett held his horse to one side of the paddock while Kimi continued with a few more laps. Both horses were unusually submissive, often a sign of abuse. She buried her anger deeply and focused onthe geldings. After another lap, she stopped near Garrett. “Want to try them inside now or leave them outside for a bit?”

He smiled softly. “I think they’ll both feel safer inside at night, but let’s leave them here for a few hours and see how they cope. Kitty is curious, and she might perk them up.”

They took off the halters, and neither horse reacted much. Nor did they move when the humans left the paddock. Dale came to watch them. “I’m glad they’re here. You’re both going to be good for them. CC knew what he was doing when he called you to take them. He also sent along a few goodies for you in the truck's bed.”

Garrett must have made a strong impression on his former boss. While the men went to deal with the goodies, she leaned on the rail and watched the horses. Kitty nickered softly, and the smaller gelding’s ears flicked toward her. “Atta girl, Kitty. You let them know they’re safe.”

Eventually, Dale left with his trailer, and Garrett joined her at the fence. “I’m thinking I’ll stay with the geldings in the barn tonight. Keep an eye on them in case they get scared.”

She nodded. “Good idea. We’ll see how they react when we put them in, but I’m thinking they’ll be less liable to spook when they’re inside.”

“And it might make Kitty more comfortable heading inside, too.”

“Maybe we should get you some therapy goats as well. Oh. I forgot to tell you. I picked up a mama cat and her litter of kittens today. You can have your pick in a couple more weeks.”

He laughed. “That’s great. All kinds of new guests today.”

She grinned at him. “We’re going to fill up your place in no time.”

His eyes flared. She wasn’t sure what he was thinking, but she was pretty sure she liked his train of thought.

Her timer app beeped on her phone. “Time to deliver a puppy to a birthday boy. If you want my help, send me a text when you want to try getting the geldings inside.”

He nodded, and she headed back to her property. Before she reached the fence, he called out. “Bring your sleeping roll if you want to spend the night.”

His words ricocheted through her, and she didn’t dare turn around.She waved to acknowledge she’d heard him and kept her flaming face away from him.

He meant they’d spend the night sleeping in the barn, keeping the horses company. In separate sleeping bags.

But her body reacted as if he’d issued a whole different kind of invitation. She was still smiling as she got the puppy settled in the truck. It was going to be a fun night.

CHAPTER 7

And Your Little Dog, Too

Garrett wasn’t surprised to see Nina pop over the fence, but he was surprised to see Heath and Addison arrive with her. His buddy lifted Addy over the fence and kept his arm around her after that. Happiness practically glowed from the group.

Nina waved. “Do you mind if we’re here? Mom’s worried I’m going to be a pest.”

Addison grinned. “We don’t want Garrett to sell his place because he can’t get a moment’s peace.”

Nina laughed. “I’m in school for at least another month. I won’t be a pest until summer comes.”

Garrett smiled at her. “I promise to let you know if you’re a pest or if I need more quiet.”

Heath slapped him on the shoulder. “How are your two new guys doing?”

Garrett turned to look at the horses. “They’re quiet. Probably too quiet. I think they’ve been under pressure to be quiet for a while now. They’re timid, but Kitty’s getting them more comfortable.”

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