Page 111 of Lassoed Love

My expression softens, a subtle understanding in my eyes. The ache in my heart responds to her admission, the silent plea for forgiveness. Yet, words remain elusive as emotions swirl within the confined space of the barn.

I take a deep breath, the weight of her words sinking in. “I missed you, too, Isla,” I admit, my voice a low murmur. The vulnerability in her eyes resonates with my own internal struggle. The barn seems to close in around us, amplifying the intensity of the moment.

She looks up, her eyes searching mine for a reaction. The distance between us feels palpable, an invisible force that both separates and connects. I want to bridge that gap, to pull her close and assure her that everything will be okay.

“How are… uh, how’s things, you know, around here?” she asks softly.

“Same old, same old,” I respond, keeping it vague. Opening up feels like prying open a wound, and I’m not sure if I’m ready for that.

I glance toward Blue, the restless stallion in his stall, eager for some action. “I was just about to take Blue for a ride. Wanna… join me?” The invitation hangs in the air, loaded with unspoken emotions and the complexity of our shared history.

Isla takes a moment to contemplate my invitation, her eyes flickering between me and Blue. The silence stretches, echoing with the weight of unspoken words. Finally, she nods, a tentative smile playing on her lips.

“Yeah, I’d like that,” she says, her voice softer than I remember. “I’ve missed this place.”

I nod in response, a mix of emotions swirling within me. Taking a deep breath, I lead Blue out of the stall. I insist that Isla ride Duchess, assuring her that she’s a lot more placid and easier to handle. As I work on gearing up the horses, the familiar routine brings back memories. The scent of leather, the creaking of saddles, and the soft whickers of the horses create a comforting backdrop.

As I finish saddling Blue, I glance over at Isla, a mix of anticipation and uncertainty in her eyes.

I instruct Isla to come stand next to me, beside Duchess. “Just stand here,” I say, gesturing to a spot by the horse’s shoulder. “Let her get used to you, and when you’re comfortable, give her a gentle pat.”

I watch as Isla cautiously approaches, her hand outstretched. Duchess snorts softly but seems at ease.

“That’s it, nice and easy,” I encourage, appreciating the gentleness in Isla’s touch.

A sense of déjà vu washes over me. It feels like an eternity ago when I helped her onto Blue. So much has changed since then, and it’s hard to believe how different things are now.

“Nice and easy,” I repeat, offering a reassuring smile. “She’s a sweetheart once you get to know her.”

Isla nods, her hand gentle as she pats Duchess.

“I remember that day you had brought her into the clinic…” her voice trails off. “She was so unsettled. It’s nice to see her in a good mood,” she says as she continues to pat her neck, just underneath her long white mane.

“Don’t be fooled. She can be feisty,” I say with a smirk.

“She’s beautiful,” she remarks, a hint of awe in her voice, looking back at me.

“Yeah, she is,” I agree, my eyes locked on Isla. The air seems charged with unspoken emotions. “Now, when you’re ready, I’ll lift you up, okay?”

She nods again, a subtle blush tinting her cheeks. Following our established routine, I place my hands at her waist, lifting her with practised ease onto Duchess’s back. The contact sends a jolt through me, and I try to focus on the task at hand, pushing the memories that threaten to resurface away, for now.

Memories flood my mind. Duchess was my first baby—I bought her as a foal from a farm about ten or so kilometres from here. I recall the day vividly, choosing her among a group of foals. Her brown and white coat made her stand out, and in that moment, I knew she was the one.

As Isla settles onto Duchess, I move towards Blue’s stall. I grab Blue, giving him a gentle pat as I secure his saddle and bridle. With everything in place, I swing myself onto his back. The familiar sensation of being astride my horse brings a comforting sense of normalcy, a welcome distraction from the unresolved emotions lingering in the air.

I glance over at Isla, offering a reassuring smile, and I grab hold of Duchess’s reins and give a gentle click with my tongue, urging them forward as we head outside.

I turn to Isla and suggest, “We’ll take them just a bit further upahead. There’s a nice trail along the edge of the farm.”

She simply nods, her response a playful, “Lead the way, cowboy,” accompanied by a smirk.

My lips break into a full-blown smile at her remark. I can’t help but feel a surge of warmth. It’s one of those little things she does that never fails to bring a smile to my face. She’s called me ‘cowboy’ before, and each time, it stirs something in me.

I guide the horses forward, enjoying the banter and the warmth that’s slowly settling between us. Isla’s blush, however, doesn’t escape my notice. It only adds to the joy of the moment.

We’ve ridden far down the trail, the sun now blazing through the clouds, erasing the earlier gloominess. The hum of cicadas and chirping birds fills the air, creating a serene symphony. This place, with its quiet magnitude, resonates with me, and I love it. A while back, I let go of Duchess's reins, and Isla now clasps them in her hands, a smile gracing her face. Her eyes squint from the sun, and she lifts her hand above them. Without a second thought, I take off my hat and lean over, placing it on her head.

“Oh no, Xav. I don’t—” Isla starts protesting.

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