Page 118 of Nate

They positioned themselves toward the back of the pack, while most racers preferred to be at the front for a better chance at an early lead. Starting at the back meant their horses wouldn’t have to run as hard at the start. Nate knew Warren, Trick, and Gage were also starting from behind as they always did.

When the gunshot rang out, everyone in the crowd flinched and the racers took off. Nate and Rafe stayed near the back with Warren, Trick, and Gage, but Nate noticed Warren picking up speed. Trick and Gage followed suit.

Nate shook his head, amused by Rafe’s calm demeanor. He knew Rafe was just biding his time for the perfect moment. And when it came, he nudged his horse forward like a bullet, leaving a trail of dust behind him. Nate couldn’t help but laugh as he chased after him, knowing there was no chance of catching up. Little by little, Rafe closed in on Warren’s lead.

****

Markie kept her gaze fixed on Nate as he spurred his horse into action upon hearing the gunshot. It was an incredible sight, watching all the horses race off. It seemed like it wasn’t just the riders who enjoyed the thrill of competition.

She had asked Sam why some riders stayed behind intentionally, and after he explained it to her, she understood. The horses at the front were already running hard, while the ones at the back were pacing themselves. However, Markie noticed Warren’s horse starting to pick up speed, with Trick and Gage close behind. They quickly overtook other riders.

“I think Warren has some real competition this year,” Sam said with a grin, nodding toward the riders.

Markie looked and saw Rafe appearing out of nowhere, closing in on the three men. Nate was trailing behind Rafe, but his horse couldn’t keep up. He still looked like he was having a great time. There were still a few riders behind him. She hoped he didn’t come in last, but she knew Nate well enough to know he wouldn’t care either way.

As the riders disappeared from view, Markie anxiously waited for them to reappear. The whole crowd was buzzing about who would cross the finish line first.

A few minutes later, the crowd erupted in cheers as Trick appeared, closely followed by Warren. Then they roared as Rafe appeared, catching up to the others. Warren passed Trick, then Rafe did too.

For a few seconds, it was a tight race between Rafe and Warren, until Rafe looked over at Warren, tipped his hat, and sped past him as if he were standing still. He dismounted before his horse even came to a stop and threw his hat in the air in celebration.

Warren also jumped off his horse effortlessly and walked over to shake Rafe’s hand before turning toward the crowd and taking a bow. “Looks like I came in second,” he announced, causing everyone to laugh.

“He even does that when he wins,” Tess explained to Markie.

“He’s being a good sport about it,” Markie grinned, watching as Nate crossed the finish line. He dismounted and walked over to shake Rafe’s hand, slapping him on the back.

“There are no sore losers here. If someone can’t handle losing, they shouldn’t compete,” Tess shrugged. “Sam used to race for a few years but decided to watch instead. We never miss it.”

“I don’t think I will either. It was a lot of fun. I’m going to Nate.” Markie smiled and made her way across the street to where Nate, Rafe, Warren, Trick, and Gage were gathered. She wrapped her arms around Nate’s waist and kissed him before turning to congratulate Rafe.

“Congratulations, Rafe.”

Rafe nodded his thanks. “Thank you, Markie.”

She saw Warren’s wife, Peyton, rush into his arms, kissing him on the lips.

“See? I’m a winner either way,” Warren said with a grin.

As everyone congratulated them, Nate looked at Markie.

“Let’s take Mystic back to the trailer and then head home. I’m exhausted and need a shower. I feel like I’m covered in dust.”

“Everyone is. I’m ready to go.”

Nate began to lead his horse away from the group, but Rafe’s voice cut through the chatter.

“If he’s going to rib me about losing, I’ll punch him,” Nate murmured under his breath.

Markie chuckled. “No, you won’t.”

With a sigh, Nate replied, “No, I won’t.” He turned to face his friend. “What’s going on?”

“What happened before the race?” Rafe inquired.

“Something happened?” Markie raised her eyebrows in surprise.

“I’m not sure. Right after we all mounted up, I caught a glimpse of a man with blond hair in the crowd. Even though he was wearing sunglasses, his stance and demeanor reminded me of Jarrett.”

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